To commence our final day, the CSB met with members of the other staff bands from around the world and Salvationists and friends from the U.K. Territory as part of the territorial music leaders’ councils at the Westminister Central Hall. Music was provided by the the International Staff Songsters and Territorial Youth Band. Japan Staff Bandmaster Jajime Suzuki gave his testimony and General Linda Bond shared how God in love can transform those who fail him. A song from the staff songsters initiated a period of reflection, prayer and response and a number of mercy seat commitments were made.

Following a brief lunch, it was then off for a great march of witness down The Mall (which only a few weeks before had been the scene of the procession after the royal wedding). Salvationists, friends and tourists braved inclement weather to watch the eight staff bands march as one massed group, led by the ISB, and then play a concert in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, a privilege rarely granted by Her Majesty the Queen. Several thousand people lined the Mall, cheering and applauding the bands’ progress. Then came the thrill of marching through the palace gates – a first for most of us – and presenting a program to the appreciative crowd. Afterwards, each band marched away on their own, with General Linda Bond taking the salute.

An evening reception gave us opportunity for one last period of fellowship with colleagues from around the world. It was a weekend not to be forgotten and will live long in the memory of all who took part.