Commissioners Widiawati and Yusak Tampai, leaders of The Salvation Army’s South Pacific and East Asia Zone, have led celebrations in Japan recognizing 130 years of Salvation Army mission and ministry in the country.
They did so on behalf of The Salvation Army’s global leader General Lyndon Buckingham, who was unable to travel due to an unexpected health condition. Throughout the visit from 19 to 21 November, Salvationists across the country prayed alongside the Tampais for the swift recovery of General Buckingham, and for Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, World President of Women’s Ministries.
The 130-year milestone event featured an uplifting ‘Bandraising’ Charity Concert, led by the former bandmaster of the Chicago Staff Band, Dr William Himes, and held at Nihonbashi Town Hall in Tokyo.
As well as commemorating The Salvation Army’s presence in the country, the theme of the weekend was one of working in partnership to strengthen the movement’s work into the future. Commissioners Tampai addressed officers from across the territory, emphasising the importance of trusting the certainty of God’s promises and upholding their identity as God’s servants. To do so would help strengthen and sustain their ministry throughout challenging times.
Throughout the visit, a deep affection shared between officers in Japan and their zonal leaders was palpable. During a meeting focused on united worship and commitment, children wearing traditional Japanese dress presented gifts to the commissioners, creating a poignant and heartfelt moment.
The celebrations also brought into focus the importance of younger members of The Salvation Army and their role in continuing Christ’s work in the country. At a Sunday worship concert held in the meeting hall at Territorial Headquarters, well-known pastor and worship leader Takafumi Nagasawa preached passionately on the saving grace of Jesus. Many young people knelt in prayer to seek renewal and demonstrate their commitment to Christ.
Although unexpected because of General Buckingham’s illness, the visit of Commissioners Tampai became a time of strengthened unity, renewed vision and a positive step towards a new horizon of the continued mission of The Salvation Army in Japan.