Sunday, August 3, 2008

About Us

Overview

The Salvation Army is a Christian denomination that stands with other mainstream denominations in proclaiming the message that faith in Jesus Christ and the change he brings is the only way to bring about significant change in the life of individuals, communities and nations. The word `Salvation’ sums up our purpose as a Christian church - a church that has been mobilised like an Army to save people. We really are a Salvation Army! Because of this big vision we have a large variety of ministry centres serving many different needs with ‘heart to God and hand to humanity’.

A Church For You
The Salvation Army Army is motivated by the LOVE FOR GOD and a concern for the NEEDS OF ALL HUMANITY. This motivation is expressed in the work of preaching the gospel and sharing Christian truths. Our corps primary mission is based on Jesus Christ's Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39).




Our Worship
Every weekend, church services held at The Salvation Army Corps endeavour to assist people to worship and hear the Christian message.
All the elements in the service work together to communicate the Gospel message through music (traditional and contemporary), drama, personal experiences, and the Bible message. Family participation in worship is a vital component of church life in The Salvation Army.


A Place for Everyone
In addition to church services, The Salvation Army provides an extensive range of recreational and support activities for all age groups. Many are designed for families or single adults, while others are specifically designed to appeal to youth, children, women, or the elderly.


Small Groups
In small group gatherings attempts are made to connect people relationally (four to ten individuals) for the purpose of getting to know God and others in the corps. These groups may be held weekly or fortnightly and cover a variety of subjects that deal with Christianity. The groups provide Bible study, fun, fellowship and support to its members.


Young People
All corps offer kids church programme to provide Christian education for children 12 and below. Most corps offer youth groups for young people aged 13 plus, involving activities such as fun outings, bible studies and sporting events.
Couples, families and single adults are encouraged to participate in worship services, small groups, and other interest-based activities. For example, coffee fellowships, Bible studies, prayer groups, home leagues (women's meeting) and young mother's groups.

There are 3 types of members :

Commissioned Officers
Ordained ministers trained for full-time service in The Salvation Army School for Officers' Training. These pastors dedicate their lives to serving God and people through the ministry of the Army.

Soldiers
Members of the congregation who are in the local corps, who have committed themselves to fill membership.

Commissioned Officers and Soldiers of The Salvation Army are Christians who have undertaken a specific covenant (or promise) regarding lifestyle and beliefs. They are eligible to wear The Salvation Army uniform and are part of a Salvation Army corps in their local area.
They testify that:
- they worship God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit
- they have accepted Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord
- they are committed to the work and mission to which Christ has called The Salvation Army as
part of his church
- they believe in the Bible as the word of God
- they agree with The Salvation Army’s doctrines (beliefs).

They also declare that:
- they will be responsive to the Holy Spirit and seek to grow in grace
- they will make the values of the Kingdom of God the standard for their lives, showing Christian
integrity in their deeds, maintaining Christian ideals in their relationships, and upholding the
sanctity of marriage and family life.
- they will be faithful stewards of all they have and are
- they will abstain from the use of all enslaving substances and harmful activities
- they will be active in God’s work both in sharing the Gospel and in serving the needy, and will
contribute financially to its support
- they will be true to the principles of The Salvation Army.

Adherents
Adherents are Christians who also pledge to support their local Salvation Army corps. While not entering into a Soldier’s Covenant, an adherent declares that they:

Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and seek to follow Him
Participate through worship, fellowship and service at a local Salvation Army corps
Identify with the mission of The Salvation Army

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