The Salvation Army began in 1865 as an evangelizing agency to reach those who lived in the dreadful British city slums, which at that time had no churches. William and Catherine Booth, a Methodist couple, started an independent ministry in the heart of London. They pitched their gospel tent in the slums and won over many despite the taunts of most of the locals. In 1878 William introduced military features into his organization, which was already growing beyond England. As general of the Salvation Army, he continued to direct its policies with autocratic power, establishing posts in various cities of England, North America, the European Continent, and Asia. With unique methods, including band music, people were drawn to open-air meetings on street corners and in halls and were told to give up their sinful lives. Again and again, men and women were rescued from the depths of despair and were transformed by the power of Christ’s love. The Army later broadened its work to include social services because of the great needs of the people among whom it ministered. After 1889 the Army established rescue homes, farm colonies, and labor bureaus. Booth obtained money for his enterprises from the sale of his best-selling book, In Darkest England and the Way Out, and from wealthy friends of the movement.
Impact: Catherine died of cancer but not before she had worked tirelessly to secure the passage of laws that improved the lives of women and children. William lived another two decades and saw his organization spread to 55 countries. During his lifetime he traveled over five million miles and preached about 60,000 sermons. The Salvation Army continues to thrive and provide help for those in need, in Christ’s name, throughout the world.