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[[File:Salvation_Army_Thrift_Store,_Santa_Monica,_CA.JPG|Salvation Army Thrift Store, Santa Monica, CA|thumb]] [[File:SalvationArmyThriftStoreRichmondHill.jpg|SalvationArmyThriftStoreRichmondHill|thumb|left]] [[File:Salvation_Army,_Eastfield.jpg|Salvation Army, Eastfield|thumb|left]] [[File:Salvos_Mordi_store.jpg|Salvos Mordi store|thumb]] [[File:Stuff_a_Bus_(Salvation_Army).jpg|Stuff a Bus (Salvation Army)|thumb]] [[File:Salvation_Army_Citadel,_Crescent_Road,_Worthing_(March_2012)_(2).JPG|Salvation Army Citadel, Crescent Road, Worthing (March 2012) (2)|thumb]] '''The Salvation Army''' is an international [[Christian]] [[charit]]able organization and church that originated in [[London]], [[England]] in 1865. Founded by [[William Booth]] and his wife [[Catherine Booth]], it was initially established as the East London Christian Mission. In 1878, it was rebranded as The Salvation Army, adopting a military structure including ranks for its ministers and members, which are referred to as "soldiers".

==History==
The Salvation Army's history began in the impoverished East End of London. William Booth, a former Methodist preacher, aimed to bring a message of salvation to the poor, homeless, and hungry by meeting both their "physical and spiritual needs". The organization expanded rapidly, both in the UK and overseas, and by the late 19th century, it had established missions in many countries.

==Beliefs and Practices==
The Salvation Army is known for its unique blend of evangelical work and social services. Its theology is based on the Bible, and its members adhere to mainstream Christian beliefs. The organization's mission statement emphasizes preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human needs without discrimination.

Salvationists, as members are known, are expected to abstain from alcohol, drugs, and gambling. They participate in worship services, prayer meetings, and Bible study. The Salvation Army is also known for its brass bands and choirs, which play an important role in its worship and public outreach.

==Social Work==
The Salvation Army is renowned for its wide range of social services. These include homeless shelters, disaster relief, rehabilitation centers, and programs for the elderly and youth. It operates thrift stores known as Salvation Army Family Stores, which fund rehabilitation programs and other charitable activities. The organization also plays a significant role in disaster relief, providing aid to victims of natural disasters and conflicts.

==Organization and Structure==
The Salvation Army operates under a quasi-military structure, with its leaders holding military-style ranks such as General, Colonel, Major, and Captain. The international leader of The Salvation Army is the General, who is elected by the High Council of The Salvation Army.

==Controversies and Criticisms==
Despite its widespread acclaim for charitable work, The Salvation Army has faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding its stance on LGBTQ+ issues. Critics have accused the organization of discrimination, although The Salvation Army maintains that it serves all individuals without discrimination based on sexual orientation or any other factor.

==Global Presence==
Today, The Salvation Army operates in over 130 countries, offering its services to millions of people regardless of their religion, race, or ethnicity. Its global mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

==See Also==
* [[Christianity]]
* [[Charity (practice)|Charity]]
* [[Social work]]
* [[Evangelism]]

[[Category:Christian denominations]]
[[Category:Charities based in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Organizations established in 1865]]
{{Religion-stub}}

The Salvation Army - Revision history

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