History of Home League
Since Florence Booth, daughter-in-law of Army co-founder William Booth, first conceived the idea of home league, it has grown into a thriving global community. SALT magazine reflects on the history of home league in New Zealand, tracing its humble beginnings to the impactful organisation it has become today.
The first home league meeting was held in London in 1907. Following this, an order from the-then territorial headquarters in Melbourne launched home league throughout Australasia. The North Dunedin Corps, who were already holding weekday meetings for married women, adopted this name and became the first home league within New Zealand.
Shortly after, other leagues were formed in Invercargill, Gisborne, Ashurst and Napier. By the end of 1916, at least seventeen local leagues were active in New Zealand. Their purpose was ‘giving spiritual counsel and practical direction to women in all matters relating to the home’.
Membership regulations broadened and leagues were opened to all women over 18 years of age who desired to join. Meetings followed a typical pattern which included singing and prayers, an address or reading and a cup of tea (with a biscuit). Mending, knitting and sewing were permitted during these meetings.
The outbreak of World War I saw many women join the league to provide comforts for New Zealand soldiers serving overseas. When World War I ended, service was redirected toward the poor and needy at home. Home league continued to grow in numbers increasing from 500 members in 1919 to 3429 members by 1938. New Zealand home leaguers again supplied comforts for soldiers and clothes for refugees in England during World War II.
Throughout this time, evangelical and spiritual growth remained a fundamental aim of the league. By 1940, the four-fold purposes of home league were defined globally as worship, education, fellowship and service. The league logo depicting a home on an open Bible continued to symbolise the organisation’s commitment to integrating practical home life with biblical principles.
After 1945, the leagues shifted their service focus to overseas, sending food and clothing to England and to New Zealand Salvationist missionaries. Over time, service evolved again, with an emphasis on raising funds for those in need. By 1990, New Zealand home leagues contributed over $100,000 annually to support both local and international initiatives.
In 1997, Colonel June Kendrew was appointed as territorial Women’s Ministry secretary for New Zealand. This was an international first and signalled changes to programmes in addition to home league, and a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the organisation. A change of name to Salvation Army Women’s Ministries took place that same year. New initiatives were encouraged to reach a broader group of younger women, including events and conferences.
Women’s Ministries underwent a rebrand in 2016, with a focus on using social media as a platform to engage younger women. Under the acronym ‘WM’, its purpose to engage women, empower mission and ignite action remains today. During the Covid-19 lockdowns, home leagues throughout New Zealand adapted by transitioning to online meetings providing support and fellowship for those in isolation.
While home league has continued to evolve since its inception over 100 years ago, it remains dedicated to the same core values: growing fully alive in Jesus, education, serving others and enjoying connection and companionship—over a cup of tea and a biscuit!
