Canterbury Salvation Army celebrates 140 years of service to the city

The Salvation Army in Canterbury is marking its 140th anniversary with a year of celebrations, community events and ambitious plans for the future.

Established in 1886, the church and charity has been serving the city for generations through worship, community support and practical help for people in need. Anniversary celebrations will culminate in a special reunion weekend on 5–6 September.

Canterbury Salvation Army leaders Majors Gavin and Alison Friday said the anniversary is a celebration of the past and an opportunity to look ahead to the future of the church’s work in the city.

Since arriving in Canterbury in 2021, Gavin says he has focused on strengthening partnerships, developing discipleship and expanding practical support services.

The Salvation Army has increased its partnership working with churches, charities and organisations across Canterbury, while initiatives such as Heart to Heart, Employment Plus and the annual Christmas toy appeal have continued to grow. 

Employment Plus, which supports people into work and provides practical guidance, has become increasingly busy due to growing local demand.

Anniversary celebrations started earlier this year with a Staff Songsters music event and included the launch of 140 Days of Prayer, bringing together members of the congregation and community in prayer ahead of the September celebrations.

The special anniversary weekend will feature guests including former divisional leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill. A reunion band and songsters event is also planned, inviting former members to take part.

Celebrations will continue on Saturday evening with a community celebration and performances from the corps’ growing children’s band, which now includes around 18 young musicians.

Alongside the anniversary celebrations, the church is also preparing for a major redevelopment project aimed at transforming its city centre building into a more accessible and integrated community hub.

Plans for the redevelopment will be formally presented during a “Meet the Neighbours” event on 6 June, bringing together local partners, councillors and community organisations.

The proposed project would modernise the building, improve accessibility and create more welcoming spaces for worship, community activities and support services.

Community fundraising efforts include a sponsored walk from Herne Bay to Whitstable on 20 June, with participants ranging from younger supporters to 80-year-old Muriel Rous, believed to be the longest-serving soldier on the corps roll.

You can also support The Salvation Army’s rebuilding project at www.justgiving.com/page/canterbury-corps-building-project-the-salvation-army

For more information about anniversary events or to support the redevelopment project, visit The Salvation Army in Canterbury on social media or contact the church directly.