“Imagine a single spark of faith igniting a nationwide movement”. That spark began with Lieutenant King Hudson in 1922. He was commissioned to ‘open fire’ in his hometown of Duakwa. Ensign and Mrs Charles Roberts also helped to pioneer work in Accra. This marked the beginning of the Salvation Army Church in Ghana.
Today we stand before a testament to that humble beginning. The Salvation Army Church has grown. It now reaches more than 300 communities across Ghana. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by God’s love. Its mission is to preach the gospel. It also meets human needs without discrimination.
The Salvation Army is an international movement. It is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. The church’s doctrine follows mainstream Christian belief. Its articles of faith emphasize God’s saving purposes. The objects are the advancement of the Christian religion. The church also promotes education and poverty relief. It supports other charitable objects beneficial to society. This is according to the Salvation Army Act of 1980.
William Booth founded the church in London in 1865. From there it spread to many parts of the world. The Salvation Army has a unique military-style organisation. It differs from other churches in Ghana and worldwide. The church is known for its all-white uniform with distinguishing marks. Leaders have military ranks and use military terms.
For example, ‘open fire’ means to shoot in the military. But in the Salvation Army, it means establishing a new church. Similarly, ‘fire your cartridge’ means to shoot in the military. But in the Salvation Army, it means paying all financial commitments.
The Salvation Army has contributed significantly to Ghanaian society. It has invested in health and education since 1922. The Army runs clinics and rehabilitation centers. This is done through its Medical and Social Services Department. The department also aids disaster victims and refugees. The church has built social centers. These centers offer vocational training to underprivileged people.
The Salvation Army has constructed many schools. These include crèches, primary schools, and junior and senior high schools. There are even plans to build a University College. The church also has emergency centers. They provide services to people during disasters.
During the COVID-19 outbreak, the Salvation Army spent one million Ghana Cedis. This money helped fight the spread of the pandemic. In July of last year, the church launched its Centenary Celebrations. The event took place at its Officers’ Training College in Tema. Dignitaries attended including the Minister of Information, Mr Kojo Oppong Nkrumah.
Mr. Nkrumah praised the church for its work in Ghana. He especially highlighted its support for the marginalized. The church offers support through its social services programs. The centenary celebration attracted Salvationists and friends of the Army from home and abroad. The World Leader of the Salvation Army, General Brian Peddle, joined the celebration.
The Salvation Army exists to meet human needs. It does this wherever and whenever it can. Its presence in Ghana and expansion to Togo are part of its global mission. The mission is to always do its best. As we stand here, remember the century of service. The Salvation Army Church is a beacon of hope and a testament to unwavering faith in Accra and beyond.