The grounds of Territorial Headquarters in Lahore, Pakistan, were filled with vibrant colour and sound for the visit of General Shaw Clifton and Commissioner Helen Clifton. The event marked the main celebration of the 125th year of the Army's work in the country. An exciting prelude included songs by a vocal group from Karachi Division, drama from Jhang Division, a youth vocal item from Islamabad Division and a cultural dance presented by young people from Sahiwal.

The entry of the General's party and the welcome reflected the joy and celebration of the return of the General and Commissioner Clifton to Pakistan (the Cliftons were leaders of the territory from 1997-2002). Part of the traditional Pakistani welcome involved the scattering of rose petals and presentation of garlands by Salvationists from Jaranwala Division. Prayers were offered by a representative of Hyderabad Division and the Rt Rev Alexander J. Malik, Bishop of Lahore, from the Church of Pakistan.

The Chief Secretary, Lieut-Colonel Yousaf Ghulam, led the congregation in a rousing song, following which words of welcome were extended by the Territorial Commander, Colonel Robert Ward, accompanied by junior soldiers from Faisalabad Division. Colonel Ward also commented that it was a special honour to welcome the first General to have served in Pakistan.

In her response, Commissioner Helen Clifton spoke with fondness of Pakistan. She gave a message of encouragement from Isaiah 46:4, reminding her listeners of the sustaining grace of God into old age.

Lahore Division presented a drama depicting The Salvation Army in Pakistan – past, present and future. It included special 'visitors' from the early days, including Lieutenant Victoria Roberts who, in 1883, was commissioned with the task of opening the work in Lahore by Commissioner Frederick Booth-Tucker. The drama then looked at some visionary possibilities for the future – including having a Balochistan Division and the dream of involvement some day with opening the work of the Army in Afghanistan and Iran.

A choric reading of Scripture from Revelation 2:1-11 was presented by students from the Army's school in Shantinagar. The school – which has more than 300 students – recently received full accreditation from the government. Music was provided by the '125 choir' from Sheikhupura Division.

In his Bible message the General reminded Pakistan Salvationists that they are not alone, but belong to the great family of God. He said that since the tragedy of last year, when Territorial Commander Colonel Bo Brekke was killed, the territory had been surrounded by the prayers and love of Salvationists around the world. With simplicity and power General Clifton urged all Salvationists to be faithful to the end and to claim the promises in God's Word. There was a steady flow of people moving forward to make commitments in response to the clear leading of God's Spirit through the General's message.

During the thanksgiving period led by Lieut-Colonel Morris John (Secretary for Personnel) a special '125 offering' was received. A multimedia presentation depicted aspects of the Army's work past and present.

The closing song was led by Major Samuel Tari (Secretary for Programme). Following the benediction by Major Richard Gaudion (Private Secretary to the General) there was a ceremonial cutting of a cake to celebrate the 125th anniversary.

The General and Commissioner Clifton led officers councils the next day, including a separate meeting the the executive officers of the territory.

A spiritual day at the training college followed on the Tuesday. This was an especially nostalgic visit for the Cliftons since the General – when territorial commander – had bought the land for the new college and had seen the building project through to completion.

The college, at Tulspura on the eastern edge of Lahore, looked attractive and welcoming in the bright sunshine. The cadets and staff of the college gathered in the wood-panelled chapel, responding sensitively to the General's exposition on the work of the Holy Spirit in people's lives.

The international leaders then shared a meal with the cadets and staff before returning to Lahore for a private meeting with the territorial leaders and members of the newly formed territorial cabinet.

Earlier in the visit the General and Commissioner Clifton were honoured by a reception to which influential friends of the Army were invited.

Top photo: A drama item shows Booth-Tucker and the early days of the Army in Pakistan; bottom: The General greets children at the training college