Salvation Army

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Sydney’s history, the Salvation Army’s presence shines brightly. The Salvation Army’s story in Sydney began not in a grand cathedral, but amidst the lively chaos of Paddy’s Market. On December 2, 1882, Captain Thomas and Adelaide Sutherland, along with their small band of Salvationists, arrived at the bustling market. Their mission was to “open fire” on Sydney with their message of spiritual and social salvation. The Salvation Army’s arrival in Sydney wasn’t met with universal acclaim. The Sydney press, influenced by reports from England, painted them as a rowdy rabble. One article even questioned the need for their “peculiar preaching and singing”. But the Salvationists persisted, holding their first official meeting the following day at the Protestant Hall on Castlereagh Street. Their open-air meetings and marches, however, often drew the ire of Sydney’s “larrikins”. In one instance, a crowd tried to seize the Salvation Army flag. Mary Ann Cox bravely wrapped the flag around herself, defying them to take it. The larrikins backed down. Despite facing opposition and negative press, the Salvation Army continued to grow. Sydney 1 Corps was established, later finding a home at the Sydney Congress Hall. A second corps opened in Newtown on April 1, 1883. Edward Saunders, a Salvationist with a building background, oversaw the construction of a much-needed hall in Newtown, which opened in 1884. The Sydney Morning Herald, once critical, now praised the Salvation Army for its work in reaching the fallen and raising them up. By 1885, the Salvation Army had firmly established itself in Sydney. Their first Australian War Cry, produced in Sydney, announced their expansion to Newcastle and other areas. From these humble beginnings at Paddy’s Market, the Salvation Army has become an integral part of Sydney’s social fabric. Today, with 54 corps and numerous welfare establishments across the Sydney region, they continue their mission of serving those in need. The Salvation Army’s story is a testament to their unwavering dedication to bringing spiritual and social salvation to the people of Sydney.