General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham received a warm western welcome in the Prairies and Northern Territories Division, as they continue their Jesus Our Compass tour across Canada. Their first stop in the division was in Calgary, where Glenmore Temple hosted a Salvationist Rally marked by enthusiastic worship and praise, followed by a youth event and a candid Q&A with the international leaders.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Order of the Founder, The Salvation Army’s highest honour, to Major (Dr.) James Watt. Major Watt, together with his wife, Bette, is a retired Salvation Army officer and physician renowned for his medical work at Howard Hospital in Zimbabwe, serving the underprivileged and establishing critical healthcare infrastructure. Others Awards for exceptional service were also presented to six worthy recipients in from the Division.

While in Calgary, the international leaders also toured Forest Lawn Community Resource Centre, a 50,000-square-foot facility supporting local families, including a food bank, mobile outreach, after-school care and an indoor skate park. They also visited Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre, a community service hub that provides vital social services, supportive housing and employment counselling.

On April 25, they were special guests at Booth University College’s graduation festivities in Winnipeg. Booth UC held baccalaureate and convocation services with the largest graduating class in its 44-year history, honouring the dedication and excellence of its students. Booth UC President Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer encouraged graduates to carry forward their calling with courage, compassion and faith.

As part of this year’s ceremonies, Booth UC conferred honorary doctorates of divinity upon General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham. In her address, Commissioner Bronwyn urged graduates, “In an age of hurry and distraction, choose to be fully where you are—first with Jesus and then with those around you. Your presence may open the opportunity for God’s presence to be known.”

Reflecting on the example set by Jesus, the General exhorted all those in attendance not to seek their own advancement, but the advancement of the kingdom: “If Christ is your model, then service is your strategy and humility is your strength.”

Pamela San Diego received the Chancellor’s Medal for excellence, presented by Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander, and gave a moving valedictory address. Lieutenant Jason Brinson was honoured with the General’s Medal for his outstanding contributions to the life of Booth UC.