Transforming Lives for 160 Years
When William and Catherine Booth began the work in London that would grow to become The Salvation Army, few would have predicted their legacy: working in 134 countries and with a history now spanning 160 years. Throughout this time there have been millions of members, and people have been helped right across the world—but this movement had humble beginnings.
Early days
Born in 1829 in Nottingham, UK, William Booth found his Christian faith early on in life and became an active Methodist, preaching and helping the poor in his local area. After some time working as a pawnbroker, he moved with his wife Catherine Mumford to the east of London. The two began working with a group of Christian businessmen who were concerned for the poor and disadvantaged in their community. In June 1865, William Booth preached to crowds outside the Blind Beggar pub and The Christian Mission, was born.
Over the next few years, the movement flourished. Its focus on teaching people about the message of Jesus in a way they could relate to, meeting wherever they could—dance halls, bowling alleys and outdoors—as well as addressing some of their material needs, saw many people become Christians. Despite opposition from parts of the public who disliked some of the Booths’ methods and style, many joined.
Their focus on those who had been rejected by the traditional churches was key. All were welcome including those impoverished and disadvantaged.
A renaming
It was in 1878 that The Christian Mission got its present name. William Booth objected to a phrase contained in that year’s annual report: ‘The Christian Mission … is a Volunteer Army’. By replacing the word ‘volunteer’, The Salvation Army had its new title and with it an inspired metaphor for its role in fighting the injustices of society. Over time, the organisation gained military-style titles (ministers are ‘officers’, for example) and even uniforms designed to publicly demonstrate a commitment to God.
Despite the differences between the Army of today and that of 1865, the organisation continues to be relevant to people and their situations. From weekly worship services, outdoor events, clubs and activities through to responding to disasters and providing practical support to those in need of help, the same spirit of putting the gospel into action as in those early days carries on.
‘Soup, soap and salvation’ was a common saying amongst early Salvationists and is still repeated today. It sums up the idea of the importance of offering practical as well as spiritual support. Soup kitchens and showers were offered alongside sermons and services.
Early pioneers
It is remarkable to think that William Booth was initially unsure about whether to extend the work of The Salvation Army beyond Britain, given how widespread the organisation is nowadays.
The first such venture was in 1879 to the US and by late 1880, 1500 people had come to have a Christian faith. In the same year, the Army extended to Australia and the first meetings in Paris were held in 1881. Work began in Canada, Switzerland and Sweden in 1882, and 1883 saw Sri Lanka, South Africa and New Zealand added, and on it continued.
Source: story.salvationarmy.org
