A Tribute to General John Gowans - The Salvation Army

A tribute to General John Gowans who was Promoted to Glory on December 8th 2012. We look back at the life of General John Gowans and hear from the people who knew him best, including Commissioner Gisele Gowans, General John Larsson and Commissioner Norman Howe.
The film includes extracts from the funeral and clips of the General himself from the archives, inluding his famous address at the 2000 Millennial Congress in Atlanta, when he spoke of 'saving souls, growing saints and serving suffering humanity'.
This film is available on the DVD, "LINK 54". LINK is the video magazine of The Salvation Army in the UK and Ireland. Call 020 7367 4975 to order your copy.
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[@Blessed3293]

CommissionerJohn Gowans always been an inspiration to my Ministry in the Salvation Army. As a youth in the Salvation Army age 14 I remember a lot of the songs that was written by commissioner Gowan. That is when I realized the calling God has had on my life. The words of each song taught me the importance giving my life to others no matter what the cost. As a preschool teacher minister follower of Jesus I am blessed to say that I am touched by this minister of God. Blessings to everyone that is touched by the words spoken the life lived most of all the blessings that comes their way when they serve the Risen Savior and is and is in example of Jesus Christ like commissioner John Gowans.

[@lizvanloon9210]

I once met him lovely at roots l told him l was a rebel He laughed and said good God will bless u and l will pray for you .lve never forgot his kindness as a new solider

[@salvationarmyvideo]

Phil, John Gowans was a much loved General indeed. Thank you for your comment.

[@margaretgarland7205]

An amazing servant of God. May he rest in peace, and rise in glory.

[@LoopyLegend]

I had the privilege of meeting him in 2001 when he came to Australia, during this meeting the General presented me with my General Guard Award. The highest award presented by the highest ranking officer of the Salvation Army. What an honor.

[@tessaadie659]

I just wanted to add to what I said a few weeks ago. I am absolutely certain that in some way John Gowans has brought me back to The Army. Most days I watch one of the musicals and as well as great blessings I see something new every time I watch. I also greedily soak up anything else of the Army's that is on the internet. I have started to sew a sampler of the words of They Need Christ and I will also be putting on images that are depicted in the song as I believe that this song is a perfect summation of The Salvation Army, what it stands for and its Mission: to save souls, to grow saints and to serve suffering humanity. God bless you General John, the world is a better place for you having been here.

[@davidwebb7513]

R.I.P. JOHN GOWANS, LONG LIVE THE SALVATION ARMY.

[@lesliepepperdine5030]

What a wonderful man.he was a true man of God. He wrote some wonderful songs and music.

[@Scott-fi6ml]

I came into soldiership on the 21st of October 2012. I wish I was under his leadership when he was General

[@salvationarmyvideo]

Thank you for sharing with us.

[@H15GWP]

What a wonderful video. - The video unit have done a first class job. - A great Blessing to be able to share in this way. - I was a cadet with John and could relate to some of the earlier stories. Truly remarkable to have known and served with this Saint of a man.

[@noemilinharesalmeida9475]

God bless the famíly of General J. Gowans. We missing !.....

[@salvationarmyvideo]

Elizabeth, thank you for sharing.

[@salvationarmyvideo]

Lisa, thank you for sharing.

[@salvationarmyvideo]

Stanley, thank you for your comment. Your idea is a good one and we'll certainly add it onto the next brainstorming session.

[@josephotto2147]

JOHN, ENJOY GOD BLESS YOU.

[@christopherhorton2867]

A true servant of God, a true inspiration to all, so grateful that I met him at Chatham Citadel Corp, I will never forget when one Sunday evening General John Gowans came to the platform and announced that he was losing his memory, there was stunned silence and a sense of emotion hit us all that witnessed this, tears were flowing, the commanding officer Major Drew McCombe offered a prayer for General John Gowans, a very moving moment. He will certainly be remembered for his songs, one in particular, How Much More which I'm sure is everyone's favourite of General John Gowans. Thank you for this tribute which in turn gave me the inspiration to write this tribute to General John Gowans.

[@salvationarmyvideo]

Geoff, thank you for your comment. We are enjoying finding so many people that's been touched by the General's life.

[@algermom2]

I was a cadet when he and now Commissioner Gisele were stationed at USA Western Territorial Headquarters; they both made themselves available to all of us, and when he learned I spoke French, he often greeted me in French when he saw me on the Crestmont campus. They were always so gracious and kind; and the premiere at Commissioning of "Son of Man, Son of God" was something I treasure. My condolences to Commissioner Gisele and family; our Lord's grace and blessings. Thank you for this tribute!!

[@carolrobinson2540]

Lovely video John was a lovely man very sad he has gone