After a very worthwhile day in Birmingham, the members of the NYSB arrived in the wee hours of the morning at the Docklands Crowne Plaza Hotel in London. We would only have a few hours until we would need to board the coach to travel to the O2 in order to begin an activity filled day at the Boundless Congress.
The day began early with rehearsals and sound checks for for the International Officers Council led by General Andre Cox and then straight into our participation in the meeting. God used the music ministry of the NYSB to inspire and bless those in attendance. It was also our privilege to play for the London Citadel Timbrels.
We enjoyed lunch with some of the others busily involved in the activities of the day in the O2 Cafeteria and then it was on to rehearsal in order to prepare for The Friday Morning Session 4, “A Caring Army”. It was a privilege to work with the Amsterdam Staff Songsters, the Mizo Singers, “TransMission”, “The M Band” and some remarkable soloists. The experience of lifting our praise to the LORD in multiple languages was quite uplifting, even just in rehearsal. No doubt Friday Morning will be amazing.
We then had the opportunity to explore the O2, visit SP&S and renew Salvationist acquaintances from around the world. Some found refreshment in stopping by the Starbucks conveniently located in the O2.
Next we would meet in the Boundless Theatre to rehearse with the Waverley Timbrels and have sound checks for the NYSB soloists who would perform in our concert later in the evening.
Following supper the Boundless Congress officially kicked off with General Session 1, “A Joyful Army”. It was our privilege to be a part of the congregation as we celebrated God’s blessing on The Salvation Army. Our hearts were stirred as representatives from all around the world saluted our International Leaders, as testimonies were given to how God had transformed lives through the ministry of The Salvation Army and we were reminded of the incredible way God has raised up our movement. Most moving to me was the inspired singing of the seven verses of “The Founder’s Song” as the Boundless Salvation Army Colors were presented and raised. I felt uniquely privileged to be a small part of the great Army that flies its flag around the world.
It would next be our privilege to present a concert together with the Waverley Timbrels to a very enthusiastic crowd of Salvationists from around the world. We were weary, but it was evident on every level that adrenalin took over and again people were inspired and blessed by our musical offerings. The presentations by the Waverley Timbrels were precise and exciting, our soloists (Gordon, Chris and Tim Ward) were outstanding and yes…Bob Jones, in the midst of another amazing drum solo managed to have another bass drum foot pedal break apart. All in all, a great ending to a long and inspiring day.
