Fond farewell to Ipswich Salvation Army leader

Salvation Army officers, staff and volunteers in Ipswich came together at the church and charity’s Priory Centre recently to celebrate the retirement of Major Andrew Jarrold who leads The Salvation Army in Ipswich as the Commanding Officer. 

Friends, colleagues and community members gathered to pay tribute to Andrew who has been in the town since July 2020. His leadership saw the development of the new Salvation Army formed out of the three current centres – Ipswich Citadel, the Priory Centre and Ipswich Bramford Centre. He also oversaw the introduction of new services including a toddler group and emergency food provision, formed ecumenical links with other churches and worked to develop engagement and diversity.  

 Arriving during the first Covid lockdown, Andrew said his first few weeks in the post presented a number of challenges. 

 He said: “Serving the people of Ipswich has been a great honour. I witnessed so much kindness and resilience during the biggest challenge we’ve faced in recent years and I leave with a heart full of memories and deep appreciation. After lockdown lifted, I wanted to reach out to the local community to let them know we were open again and ready to help. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside such a dedicated team and look forward to the continued impact of our work in the Ipswich community.” 

Tributes were paid to Andrew’s commitment, leadership and years of services during the special event. Major Graham Daniels, Divisional Area Officer represented The Salvation Army’s East of England Division and spoke highly of Andrew’s impact and legacy in Ipswich whilst Shamila Waddle, Priory Centre Manager paid warm tributes to Andrew. 

 She said: “Andrew has made remarkable contributions as the Commanding Officer for Ipswich and his leadership has been both inspiring and transformative. His legacy of compassion, humour and forward-thinking ideas will undoubtedly continue to shape Ipswich Salvation Army for years to come”.   

 Andrew said he will look back fondly on his time in Ipswich. 

 He said: “God has really blessed us at Ipswich and the dedication and commitment of people, volunteers and the various teams across the three centres have also been a real blessing. I would also like to thank Major Jo Todd, Associate Officer, for all her help and wisdom over her time as part of the Ipswich Salvation Army team.” 

For more information on The Salvation Army at the Ipswich Citdael, go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ipswich 

 For more on the Ipswich Priory Centre, go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ipswichpriory 

 Majors Stephen and Sarah Battle will take over in Ipswich next month.