The founder of the Salvation Army and its first General, William Booth, died on this day in 1912 at age 83.
Many are familiar with the Salvation Army’s hunger-relief programs, housing and shelter services, and collection of donated clothing and furniture. Most notably, its iconic annual Red Kettle Campaign draws tremendous attention and support. Perhaps, locally, you have visited the Salvation Army Thrift Store on Little East Neck Road in West Babylon. Its collection bins are often overflowing, reflecting our community’s generosity.
With the National Football League’s preseason underway, New York Giants fans are already looking forward to hosting the Dallas Cowboys for their season opener on September 13. Off the football field, the Cowboys and the Salvation Army share one of professional sports’ most prominent team-charity partnerships. Their signature connection is the Red Kettle Kickoff, launched in 1997 and celebrated each year during the Cowboys’ nationally televised Thanksgiving Day halftime show.
The Salvation Army’s many laudable charitable programs sometimes overshadow an important fact: the Salvation Army is a church. Booth, a Methodist preacher, began his evangelical mission in London in 1865. It became known as the Christian Mission and, in 1878, took the name we know today.
The Salvation Army’s theology has deep roots in the Wesleyan Methodist tradition, although its organization and worship practices are distinctive. Its quasi-military structure gives us titles such as “lieutenant,” “major,” and, of course, “General.” Most notably, Salvationists do not practice Holy Baptism or Holy Communion as formal sacraments, believing instead that God’s grace is encountered throughout the whole of Christian life.
We Lutherans take a different path. We gladly give thanks for the Salvation Army and its devoted ministry among those in need, while also cherishing the sacramental gifts through which God promises to meet us with grace.
And this Sunday, we will celebrate both!
Join us Sunday, August 23, at 9:30 AM as we gather around the waters of Holy Baptism and the table of Holy Communion, giving thanks for the many ways God’s grace comes among us.
Blessings,
Pastor Marc
