Modeled after the military complete with uniforms, flag,
music and rank, the Salvation Army was founded in 1865 by
former minister William Booth and his wife, Catherine, in London. Leading "God's Army,"
Booth made himself the general of his organization, and his other ministers were the
officers. Other participating members became the Salvation Army's soldiers. While
William aimed his sermons to the poor populace, his wife--the "Mother of the Salvation
Army"--ministered to the wealthy, seeking financial support for their group. The "Three
S's" became part of their credo in dealing with the poor: they offered soup, soap and
salvation.
The Salvation Army spread from England to
Australia, Ireland and the United States beginning in 1980. Their main goals were to
help the poor and convert "undesirables" such as alcoholics, prostitutes and drug
addicts. The Salvation Army discouraged other vices, such as smoking and gambling, and
they did not practice the Christian sacraments of communion or
baptism.
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