Portsmouth Salvation Army launches free “Alive Course” on life’s biggest questions

published on 1 Jul 2026

This July, The Salvation Army in Portsmouth is inviting the local community on a five-week journey to explore life's biggest questions. The new 'Alive Course' launches on Thursday, 2nd July at 12.30pm at Portsmouth Citadel, offering a welcoming space for everyone—whether you hold strong convictions, are still searching, or simply describe yourself as curious about life and meaning.

Through high-quality video storytelling and open, informal group discussion, the course explores how encounters with hope, transformation, and new beginnings can speak directly to our most fundamental human needs: love, peace, freedom, purpose, and a sense of belonging. No question is off-limits, and no prior knowledge is required—just a willingness to listen, share, and explore in a non-judgmental environment.

The course will be the first of its kind for the Portsmouth Citadel and will be facilitated by the church's leadership team, including Captain Sarah Ilsters, Major Beth Maddern, and Community Centre Manager Rob Warburton. It will be held in the relaxed environment of their community café on Lake Road, with each session lasting approximately one hour and refreshments provided.

A space for everyone, wherever they are

Captain Sarah Ilsters, who leads The Salvation Army in Portsmouth, said the course is designed to create a safe, accessible environment—even for those who may feel anxious in larger social settings.

The content is geared toward a wide audience, including those who are completely new to faith, long-time church members looking for a renewed sense of purpose, or anyone simply exploring life's bigger questions.
Rather than focusing solely on doctrine, the program centres on the personal encounters described in historical texts—stories of transformation, doubt, and realisation. The goal is to allow participants the space to personally connect with these narratives in a way that feels relevant to their own lives,
said Sarah

The “Alive Course” is free and open to all. For those unable to commit to all five weeks, the team encourages attendance whenever possible.

“Courses are always better if you experience the whole thing. But people are welcome to come and try and see what it is like. We find that most people come back once they've been once!”

Organisers say the course is designed to create a safe, accessible environment—even for those who may feel anxious in larger social settings.

The “ALIVE Course” aligns with The Salvation Army’s broader outreach initiatives focused on spiritual growth and holistic personal transformation. By connecting individuals with local support systems and small groups, the course acts as a bridge for those seeking to integrate more fully into a supportive faith community. Sarah says the course can serve as a catalyst for significant life changes and creation of lasting connections within local church life and community.

Those interested in participating or wanting to learn more are encouraged to speak to a member of the team at the church, sign up via their email: portsmouth@salvationarmy.org.uk or simply turn up on the day.

The Portsmouth Salvation Army provides practical support to alleviate hardship through services like a food bank open twice weekly and an Employment Plus programme offering CV help and job-ready support. They foster community connections by hosting a parent and toddler group, a craft and friendship club, and a welcoming café that serves as a warm space for people to meet. To learn more about their programmes visit their website: Portsmouth Citadel | The Salvation Army.