Celebrations kick off to mark Leeds Central’s 150th birthday

A year of celebrations to mark the 150th anniversary of Leeds Central Salvation Army has kicked off. 

Events focused on worship, music, socialising and community outreach will take place at Easter, in May, July, September and October to highlight the work the church and community centre does now and to honour its past, having served the city since May 1876. 

Leeds Central Salvation Army, based in Nile Street, runs a full weekly programme which includes providing hot meals and fresh food for people who are vulnerable or experiencing homelessness, hosting a drop-in and signposting service, Prayer Shawl Ministry, a walking group and Sunday Worship. 

Major Nicola Barker, who leads the church with Major Michael Barker, said: “This year is about celebrating the past, acknowledging the present and looking to the future.

“Since 1876 Leeds Central Salvation Army has had a presence in the city, offering comfort and support to some of the most vulnerable as well as a place for people to gather to share in and experience God’s Love. The chorus 'We'll praise Him for all that is past and trust Him for all that's to come' is central to our celebrations.” 

A feature in the Christian Mission Magazine for December 1876 describes how The Salvation Army was growing in popularity. It stated: “The Lord is still blessing us here. We have large congregations, good open-air meetings, profligate sinners are being saved and believers sanctified, and we are fully expecting such a winter's campaign as we have never seen before.” 

Celebrations launched on Saturday (7 March) with an African Praise Celebration – celebrating the diverse fellowship and shared worldwide Salvation Army mission.

Nicola continued: “We have a big African fellowship with lots of Zimbabwean worshippers as well as people from Democratic Republic of Congo and Eritrea. We were joined by Colonels Bishow and Pamela Samhika from The Salvation Army’s International College for Officers on Saturday for a celebration and music from Leeds Central Band. Worship on Sunday (8 March) was led by Commissioners John and Dorita Wainwright, Executive Officers to the African Praise Fellowship.” 

At Easter, celebrations will be led by Lieutenant Colonels Beverley and Drew McCombe, The Salvation Army’s former Secretary for Mission. The official anniversary weekend will be marked on Sunday 30 May with worship led by Colonels Dean and Eirwen Pallant, Leaders of The Salvation Army in Germany, Poland and Lithuania. 

With a focus on the work the church does with children in July, they will welcome Doug Horley, known as Duggie Dug Dug, who leads an international ministry working with children and song writing, to host Circus Praise, a fun and interactive celebration for younger members of the congregation.

September will feature Harvest weekend and an open day on Saturday 19 September. Major Nicola continued: “We'll be celebrating the history of the church with music and refreshments. This will be open to members of the public to find out more about what we do here and enjoy some free hospitality.

“Another highlight will be celebrating the musical aspect of our church with Salvation Army Brass joining us for the weekend of 17 and 18 October. 

“Please do get in touch if you would like to attend any of these events. The Salvation Army is a warm and welcoming place, and we’d love to invite you all to celebrate this special year with us.” 

Find out more information here or follow them on Facebook. If you are interested in attending any of the events please contact the church directly.