High Council Farewell
Commissioners James and Jan Condon receive prayer as they are farewelled before their trip to attend the High Council. (Photo: Shairon Paterson)
Territorial Commander and Territorial President for Women’s Ministries, Commissioners James and Jan Condon were given an official send off to The Salvation Army’s High Council in London on July 18 at Australia Eastern Territorial Headquarters.
117 Salvation Army leaders, including the Condons, will meet on 29 July to elect the Army’s 20th General at the High Council held the Renaissance Hotel, near Heathrow, west of London. The usual venue for the High Council, Sunbury Court in Sunbury-on-Thames in London, is undergoing a major refurbishment.
All leaders who are commissioners on active service or who are territorial commanders or territorial presidents of women’s ministries of any rank qualify for membership of the High Council.
The Condon’s farewell service began with introductory music by a brass ensemble and followed with a welcome by Colonel Janet Munn, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries.
“The scripture reminds us, when the leaders are righteous, the people rejoice … We rejoice because our leaders, the Condons are righteous,” shared Colonel Janet.
Colonel Richard presented a brief historical outline of the High Council, informing the audience when the first High Council occurred in 1929, electing General Edward Higgins, The Salvation Army’s third General.
Along with all the official proceedings, Colonel Richard highlighted how the High Council selection process is carefully considered with prayer.
“It’s with pride that our representatives from the Australia Eastern Territory are Commissioners James and Jan Condon.”
Holding back tears, Commissioner Jan shared about the privilege to be part of the High Council. She asked for the territory to pray for wisdom and discernment for the members of the High Council.
“We pray that the person chosen will be approved by God and not by man.”
Commissioner James followed and thanked God for the honour of being part of the High Council.
“It’s a sacred responsibility I do not take lightly … I will do my very best upon my knees to listen to God and to be his obedient servant in all of the processes that will take place across the days.”
The congregation the gathered around the Condons and prayed for their journey ahead at the High Council.
The announcement of the new General will happen via webcast, enabling people around the world to hear the news at the same time. For further information, log onto http://www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/HighCouncil2013
Comments
My prayers are with you.
Safe travel, good health & God's annointing upon you both