Local Salvation Army organizations have been an important part of the communitys religious and social fabric since the mid-19th Century. Founded in London, England by William and Catherine Booth in 1865, the organization has always made it their mission to meet needs wherever they exist. Each local Salvation Army works to, in the words of their mission statement, The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. One can now find local Salvation Army organizations in more than 100 countries. Most medium to large communities will have a local Salvation Army church. Major cities may have more than one. The local Salvation Army churches call their leaders or pastors officers and they wear the uniform of the organization. Typically, the leaders are married, and both the husband and wife are officers. There is an equality of rank and responsibility in local Salvation Army churches. This sets them apart from some religious denominations which withhold certain positions of leadership and responsibility from women. Local Salvation Army churches function much like any local church in the community. Worship services are usually held on Sunday morning. The services contain familiar Christian components, such as singing hymns, collecting an offering, prayer, and a sermon, focusing on the communication of the gospel. Sunday school or childrens church will be offered for school-age children, and a nursery will be provided for infants and toddlers. Local Salvation Army churches strive to be family friendly. The demographics of many of their local churches and communities is changing, with the populations aging. Therefore, there is special emphasis made to attract younger attendees.
