On Thursday, July 12, the Canadian Staff Band joined Salvationists and friends from throughout southern Ontario to welcome Commissioners William and Marilyn Francis as the new leaders of the Army in Canada and Bermuda. It was a significant occasion as they were officially installed in their new positions by Commissioners Max and Lennie Fenner, Canadian officers serving in the U.S.A. Southern Territory. The CSB rarely comes together in the summer months, as our season had officially ended with the Celebration OneTwoFive weekend in Winnipeg June 14-17. Despite vacation schedules, music camps and other commitments, people expressed their appreciation that the full band had come together to support this important gathering.

Held at Jackson’s Point divisional camp, the meeting was preceded by an outdoor barbecue that gave us opportunity to share in fellowship and meet our new leaders and members of their family in a more informal setting. Then, after a prelude of lighter items including “Saints on Parade,” “Bugler’s Holiday” and the “Fire Dance” from “Call of the Cossacks,” Bandmaster Brian Burditt lifted the baton for Erik Leidzen’s march “Manhattan” as the new leaders marched in to take their places on the platform. It was an appropriate choice for the occasion, as the Francises are from the U.S.A. Eastern Territory and have spent much of their officership in New York.

As well as accompanying congregational songs, the band’s main contribution to the evening was the new selection “Lift Jesus High,” based on the choruses “We Want to See Jesus Lifted High” and “I Exalt Thee.” In addition, the CSB worship team led in two praise choruses remind ghe congregation of God’s faithfulness and inviting him to reign in their hearts through his power.

Commissioners William and Marilyn Francis both shared from their personal experience and spoke of their vision for the territory. One of our own, Steve Pavey, was privileged to officially greet the new leaders on behalf of soldiers of the territory, in addition to others who spoke words of welcome. All in all, it was a great night and the band was pleased to be present for the occasion.

On a sad note, after the program we learned that this would be the last CSB performance for percussionist Raymond Larlee. We congratulate Ray on his upcoming marriage and wish him well as he focuses on his new life and other personal responsibilities in the days to come.