Leicester West Salvation Army celebrates a decade of faith, growth and community with anniversary weekend
published on 26 Jun 2026
A decade of transformed lives, growing faith and stronger community connections will be celebrated this month as The Salvation Army in Leicester West marks its 10th anniversary with a special weekend of thanksgiving, celebration and community fun.
Taking place on Saturday 27 June and Sunday 28 June, the anniversary celebrations will reflect on ten years of ministry while looking ahead to an exciting future. The weekend begins with a free Community Open Day on Saturday from 10am to 2pm, followed by a Sunday Praise Meeting at 10.45am.
Open to everyone, the Community Open Day promises something for all ages, with local vendor stalls, homemade cakes, food, a bouncy castle, games and activities for children, live brass band music, and a fascinating heritage display celebrating the history of The Salvation Army in Leicester.
The anniversary marks ten years since Leicester West Corps was established through the merger of two Salvation Army churches. Since then, it has flourished into a vibrant and growing church that has placed leadership development, community outreach and discipleship at the heart of its mission.
Jo and Liam Beattie, leaders at the Leicester West Salvation Army believe one of the greatest achievements over the past decade has been empowering members of the congregation to discover and use their gifts.
"Our vision has always been to equip people to serve confidently. We've encouraged local leadership to flourish by entrusting people with meaningful responsibilities across every area of church life. That has strengthened the corps, enabled individuals to discover their calling and allowed us to launch new ministries that continue to make a real difference within our community."
Among the milestones celebrated during the anniversary are the successful launch of QWest Youth Church, which now welcomes around 14 to 16 young people aged 11 to 25 every Friday, the establishment of the popular CAMEO community group, continued growth in Sunday worship attendance to an average of 50 to 60 people each week, and the enrolment of four groups of Salvation Army soldiers, junior soldiers and adherents, bringing 17 new members into the church, with more currently preparing for membership.
The church is also celebrating a landmark achievement in seeing Cadet Timothy Watch enter The Salvation Army's Officer Training College, becoming the first Zimbabwean candidate from the UK and Ireland Territory to train for officership, a milestone that Leicester West is especially proud to have helped nurture.
Beyond its own congregation, Leicester West has built strong partnerships across the local community. The church enjoys an excellent relationship with the local police, who regularly use the building for community drop-in sessions and work closely alongside the church leaders throughout the year.
Liam added: "When we look back over these ten years, we're incredibly grateful for all that God has done through the people of this church. Lives have been changed, friendships have been formed, young people have discovered purpose, and our community has found a place where everyone is welcome.
"As we celebrate this milestone, we're also looking forward with great expectation. We believe the best is still to come, and we would love the community to join us as we celebrate not only our past but the exciting future that lies ahead."
Looking ahead, Leicester West has ambitious plans for the next decade. With its programmes continuing to expand, proposals are already being explored for a significant extension or redevelopment of the existing building, creating new youth facilities, office space, improved community areas and an expanded charity shop to meet growing demand.
Event details:
Leicester West Corps 10th Anniversary Weekend
-
Saturday 27 June
Community Open Day
10am to 2pm -
Sunday 28 June
Anniversary Praise Meeting
10.45am
Venue:
The Salvation Army Leicester West Corps
Leicester West Salvation Army is a welcoming church and community hub offering practical support, spiritual care, and a friendly space for people of all ages. Through its charity shop, community lounge, prayer gatherings, Bible study, youth church, music ministry, and city centre outreach, it provides connection, hope, and help to the local community, reflecting a strong commitment to service, fellowship, and faith.