South America Journey - Advisory Board, THQ, Buenos Aires Divisional Holiness meeting

Travel back from Rosario was long, flat and straight - and included a souvenir stop so all is well!

Two meetings followed. Firstly we met with representatives of the Territorial Advisory Board who spoke about their view on the national socio political situation - which is challenging - as well as their view of the challenges facing the Salvation Army here. Although there is need for significant financial support the need for a media presence seems to be significant in their thinking. The latter would surely lead to some hell in the former? Not necessarily so. We have learned that legally volunteering is not always legally possible due to labour laws - it seems odd to us but it is, nevertheless, the case. Equally odd to our thinking is that Argentina is not a 'giving' culture. Charity is not something that many people respond to - it seems odd that a country with people so generous of time and heart are not so financially. It is the situation though.

We move, after a rest, to tea with the Territorial Cabinet at THQ. One of our last experiences of hospitality is a precursor to a question and answer session: support from UKI territory, lack of officers, pressure of programme, community engagement all get a hearing. The Territory has impressed all of the divisional Leaders visiting with the hard work and relevant programme presented by Corps in local communities. If we could foster some of the vision and enthusiasm what an impact would be made in our communities!

From this session we move straight into the divisional Holiness meeting - all the component parts you would expect: band, singing group, worship band, testimony, scripture. Elwyn preaches on 'the foolishness of God' and at the conclusion the mercy seat is lined, over and over. The blessing is rich and the worship authentic and heartfelt.

The congregation stays, hotdogs are available in the entrance hall along with soft drinks. Conversations continue and flow. Farewells are shared with the group. There is much hugging, photographs, cheek to cheek kissing ( as we have got used to it). There is a joy in the knowledge that we will gather again in heaven if not on earth.

I feel rich and very grateful to have met and lived alongside these uncomplicated, faithful people who know. Gods blessing in some of the most trying circumstances imaginable. One expression we have come to recognise as it is offered as a prayer, an exclamation, a declaration, is the phrase I want to be the last words here: Gracias Señor - Thank You Lord.