Name: Salvation Army
Lineage: Christian > Protestantism
Name: William Booth
Born: April 10, 1829
Died: August 20, 1912
Name: Catherine Booth
Born: January 17, 1829
Died: October 1890
The Salvation Army developed in 19th century America as part of the revivalistic movements which were common at the time and in particular was an outgrowth of the Methodist "Holiness" movements. Today it can be found in 100 countries performing various charitable works.
Founded in London, England by William Booth, a former Methodist, the Salvation Army adopted a militaristic structure and rhetoric as part of its efforts to engage in social work. The group was originally called the East London Christian Mission in 1865 but the name "Salvation Army" was adopted when the militaristic structure was created.
Members sign a document called "Articles of War" and the meeting places are known as "citadels." Both Booth and his son had the title "general" and people who hold offices in the organization also get military titles. Even the international structure of the group has the globe divided into "territories" and "divisions."
Although a Christian organization, neither sacraments nor a ministry is accepted. The statement of doctrines can be found in the book Orders and Regulations, written in 1878. The influence of John Wesley can be found in the ideas of universal redemption and post-conversion sanctification.
The primary goal of the Salvation Army has always been to convert people to belief in Christianity. The charitable work exists to supplement evangelism and to symbolize the love of God for sinful, fallen humanity.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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