World leaders mark 145 years in Glasgow Govan
published on 9 Jul 2026
The world leaders of The Salvation Army will visit Glasgow this week (Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July) to help its Govan church celebrate 145 years at the heart of the community.
General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham will take part in a civic reception at Glasgow City Chambers on Friday (July 10) before visiting The Salvation Army church in Govan, where staff and volunteers support vulnerable people in the community by providing food, comfort and a warm welcome to all.
The General will take part in a question-and-answer session with young people, attend a traditional Scottish ceilidh at the church and lead worship on Sunday (12 July) in a packed weekend of activities. The Salvation Army in Govan began in September 1881 during an era of expanding Christian mission and increasing awareness of the grinding poverty experienced by many households in the Clydeside ship building towns.
Generations of Salvationists have provided spiritual support and practical help here in Govan
General Lyndon Buckingham, world leader of The Salvation Army, said:
“We are so pleased to be back in Scotland and truly inspired by the work taking place at Govan. Our visit coincides with a significant milestone for our church and an important chapter in Glasgow's social history. Generations of Salvationists have provided spiritual support and practical help here in Govan through periods of economic hardship, war, disaster and social change. That tradition continues today and this 145th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to thank God for all that has been achieved over those years. We will also pray for peace and look ahead to continued service supporting vulnerable people as part of this great community.”
Major Helen Schofield, who leads The Salvation Army in Govan, said:
“From its earliest days, we have stood alongside people facing challenges and hardship in this resilient and tight-knit community. While the environment around us has changed a great deal since 1881, our passionate commitment to local people remains the same. We are blessed to welcome our worldwide leaders and share both the rich history of our church and the work that continues every day to support the community.”
For more information visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/govan or email Govan Corps at govan@salvationarmy.org.uk for details about activities and support available locally.