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with the Republic of Ireland
100 years of Salvation Army scouting celebrated at world jamboree in the U.K.
To celebrate 100 years of Salvation Army scouting, the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland hosted The Salvation Army World Jamboree for Scouts and Guides—Ignite 2013—Aug. 3-10 at Gilwell Park, Chingford, the historic U.K. home of scouting.
The event welcomed 520 scouts, ages 10-25, plus guides and leaders, from Australia, Canada, Ukraine, Finland, Sweden, France, Belgium, U.K., Norway and The Netherlands.
“[The jamboree] is a very great experience,” said Elise, a 16-year-old Norwegian delegate and nine-year veteran of the scouting program. “It is especially great getting to know people from other countries.”
Activities included archery, climbing, unicycling, pogo sticks, 3G swing, high seesaw, crate stacking, grass sledging, zip lining, music, and arts and crafts, with campfires and social activities in the evenings. A “Quiet Zone” was also available.
Embracing their diversity, campers explored different cultures, while realizing the common bonds they share in Christian life and scouting.
Major Denise Cooper, jamboree coordinator and territorial children’s ministries officer in the U.K. with the Republic of Ireland, believes that the Army should continue to invest in scouting. “It helps break down barriers, builds character and develops leadership in young people…and many of the kids that we connect with do not have a church home,” she said.
Delegates also participated in an international market day, sampling food and viewing cultural performances from the attending countries. The week concluded with a day in London for shopping and sightseeing.
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