The Salvation Army is a worldwide evangelical Christian church with its own distinctive governance and practice. The Army’s doctrine follows the mainstream of Christian belief and its articles of faith emphasize God’s saving purposes.
Its religious and charitable objects are “the advancement of the Christian religion … and, pursuant thereto, the advancement of education, the relief of poverty, and other charitable objects beneficial to society or the community of mankind as a whole” (Salvation Army Act 1980).
The Movement, founded in London, England, in 1865 by William and Catherine Booth, has spread to 111 countries in the world.
The rapid deployment of the first Salvationists was aided by the adoption of a quasi-military command structure in 1878 when the title “The Salvation Army” was brought into use. A similarly practical organization today enables resources to be equally flexible.
Responding to a recurrent theme in Christianity which sees the Church engaged in spiritual warfare, The Salvation Army has used to its advantage certain soldierly features such as uniforms, flags and ranks to identify, inspire and regulate its endeavours.
Evangelistic and social enterprises are maintained, under the authority of the General, by full-time officers and employees, as well as soldiers who give service in their free time. The Army also benefits from the support of many adherents and friends, including those who serve on advisory boards.
Leadership in The Salvation Army is provided by commissioned and ordained officers who are recognized as fully accredited ministers of religion.
Salvationists accept a disciplined and compassionate life of high moral standards which includes abstinence from alcohol and tobacco.
From its earliest days The Salvation Army has accorded women equal opportunities, every rank and service being open to them, and from childhood the young are encouraged to love and serve God.
Raised to evangelize, the Army spontaneously embarked on schemes for the betterment of the poor. Such concerns developed, wherever the Army operates, in practical, skilled and cost-effective ways. Evolving social services meet endemic needs and specific crises worldwide. Highly trained staff are employed in up-to-date facilities.
The need for modernization and longer-term development is under continual review. Increasingly the Army’s policy and its indigenous membership allow it to cooperate with international relief agencies and governments alike.
The Army’s partnership with both private and public philanthropy will continue to bring comfort to the needy, while the proclamation God’s redemptive love revealed in Jesus Christ offers individuals and communities the opportunity to know spiritual fulfillment here on earth and a place in Christ’s eternal Kingdom.
