Chelmsford Salvation Army celebrates 140 years of service

The Salvation Army in Chelmsford is inviting the community to join a special weekend of celebrations marking 140 years of serving the city.

Taking place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June, the anniversary celebrations will bring together past and present members, local residents and community partners to reflect on the church and charity’s long history while looking ahead to its future mission.

The weekend will begin in Central Park at the Chelmsford Park Run on Saturday morning with church members supporting and taking part, reflecting The Salvation Army's origins of taking its message and support onto the streets of the city.

Throughout the day, the public will be invited to enjoy a community festival at The Salvation Army church on Baddow Road, featuring family activities, historical displays, music workshops, face painting, a treasure hunt, a community meal, live entertainment, a silent disco and opportunities to explore the organisation's 140-year history in Chelmsford.

Sunday's celebrations will focus on worship, prayer and thanksgiving, including the unveiling of a specially commissioned piece of artwork created to commemorate the anniversary.

Majors Allister and Kathleen Versfeld lead The Salvation Army in Chelmsford.

Kathy said: "Reaching 140 years is a remarkable milestone. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate all that has been achieved through the dedication of generations of Salvationists, volunteers and supporters who have served the people of Chelmsford."

"We want this weekend to be a celebration not just for us, but for the wider community. Whether people have a connection with the Salvation Army or are simply curious to learn more about what we do, everyone is welcome."

Founded in Chelmsford in 1886, The Salvation Army has served the city continuously through periods of enormous social change. Today, its work includes food parcel distribution, community meals, support for vulnerable people, pastoral care and a range of outreach activities designed to meet local needs.

Allister believes the church and charity’s longevity comes from its commitment to both faith and service.

He said: "The world has changed enormously over the last 140 years, but the message of hope that inspires us remains the same. We believe there is always hope, even in difficult circumstances, and we want to continue sharing the hope we have in Jesus Christ with the people of Chelmsford for many years to come."

The anniversary celebrations are open to all. Organisers are encouraging people to register their interest in advance, particularly for workshops and the community meal. Email chelmsford@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 01245 490998

For more information about the celebrations, visit I am Connected to Chelmsford SA on Facebook.