The Salvation
Army
The Salvation Army is an integral part
of the Christian Church, although distinctive in its organisation and practice.
The Army's doctrine follows the mainstream of Christian belief and
its articles of faith emphasise the goodness and greatness of God.
| Its objects are the advancement
of the Christian religion, of education, the relief of poverty, and other
charitable objectives beneficial to society or the community of mankind as
a whole. |
 |
The movement, founded in London
in 1865 by William Booth, has spread from London, England, to many parts
of the world. Salvationists (as members of the Army are called) come from
many cultural backgrounds and enjoy an international fellowship, knowing
no barriers of age, sex or race.
The rapid deployment of the first Salvationists was aided by the adoption
of a quasi-military structure in 1878 when the title 'The Salvation Army'
was brought into use. A similar practical organisation today enables resources
to be equally flexible.
Responding to a recurrent theme in Christianity which sees the Church engaged
in spiritual warfare, the Army has used to advantage certain military 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. Leadership in the Army is provided by commissioned
officers who are recognised ministers of religion.
Salvationists adopt a simple life-style which is reflected in the modest
salaries of the officers. All Salvationists accept a disciplined and
compassionate life of high moral standards which includes abstinence from
alcohol and tobacco. From its earliest days the Army has accorded woman equal
opportunities, every rank and service being open to them, and from childhood
the young are encouraged to love and serve God.
Raised to evangelise, the Army spontaneously embarked on schemes for the
social betterment of the poor. Such concerns have since developed, wherever
the Army operates, in practical and skilled ways. Evolving social services
meet needs and specific crises world-wide. Modern facilities and highly trained
staff are employed. Longer-term development is under continual review.
Increasingly the Army's apolitical policy allows it to co-operate with
international relief agencies and governments alike. The movement will continue
to bring to the needy the comforts of God's redemptive love, while the
proclamation of the gospel offers individuals and communities the opportunity
to enjoy a better life on earth and a place in Christ's everlasting
Kingdom.
Taken from
"The Salvation Army Year Book"
The Mission Statement of the Salvation
Army says:
-
The Salvation Army is an integral part
of the universal Christian Church.
-
Its message is based on the Bible; its
motivation is the love of God as revealed in Jesus Christ.
-
Its mission is to proclaim his gospel,
to persuade people of all ages to become his disciples and to engage in a
programme of practical concern for the needs of humanity.
-
Its ministry is offered to all, regardless
of race, creed, colour, age or sex.
The Vision Statement of The Salvation
Army in the UK says:
We will be
a Spirit-filled, radical, growing movement with a burning desire
to:
-
lead people into a saving knowledge of
Jesus Christ
-
actively serve the community
-
fight for social justice
If you have any other questions on the
Salvation Army take a look at the
Frequently Asked
Questions page on the Salvation Army's website.
The Salvation Army
in Chelmsford
| The Salvation Army "opened fire"
in Chelmsford in 1886 and has been active in the town ever since. The corps
moved to its current hall in March 1974. |
 |
| The leaders of the Salvation Army
in Chelmsford are Majors Cliff and Jean Bradbury who came to Chelmsford in
May 1998 following appointments at both Corps and Headquarters appointments
in the UK. |
 |
Meetings at the corps are usually as
follows:
|
Sunday |
|
|
10:00 |
Holiness Meeting |
|
11:15 |
Sunday School |
|
11:30 |
Open Air witness in the Chelmsford
district |
|
17:30 |
Praise and salvation meeting |
| |
|
|
Monday |
|
|
14:30 |
Over 60's club : all in that category
are very welcome. |
| |
|
|
Wednesday |
|
|
17:30 |
17th Chelmsford (SA) Beaver
Colony meet at the hall |
|
19:00 |
17th Chelmsford (SA) Cub Pack
meet at the hall |
|
20:00 |
17th Chelmsford (SA) Scout
Group meet at the hall |
|
19:30 |
Bible study : contact the officers for
further details |
| |
|
|
Thursday |
|
|
14:00 |
Ladies meeting |
| |
|
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Friday |
|
|
18:30 |
Youth Club |
The Songster Brigade, or choir, from
the Salvation Army at Chelmsford also have a website, please pay it a visit
sometime.
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