Salvation Army celebrates 140 years at the heart of Chelmsford

The Salvation Army in Chelmsford celebrated 140 years of serving the city with a weekend of worship, fellowship and community activities that brought together generations to honour the church’s past while looking confidently to its future.

The celebrations reflected the church’s commitment to sharing faith, serving others and building community. Members and supporters took part in events from a parkrun and social gatherings to worship, music and an evening of celebration under the stars.

Majors Kathy and Allister Versfeld lead the Chelmsford Salvation Army. For Kathy, the weekend was defined by an overwhelming sense of togetherness.

She said: “There was a wonderful sense of unity right across the age spectrum and whatever the activity, whether out on the parkrun or worshipping together at the hall, over cake and coffee or dancing under the stars. 

“The weekend celebrations were planned by the church, for the church, to the glory of God. It was thrilling to see every member of the fellowship embracing the moment and each other.”

One of Kathy’s favourite moments came during Sunday’s worship service.

“Hearing the congregation lift the roof as they sang Holy Forever was incredibly moving. It was a truly powerful moment of worship and one that perfectly captured the spirit of the weekend.”

Allister said: “The faithfulness of individuals and their families through successive generations has enabled Chelmsford Salvation Army to remain a vibrant part of the community for 140 years,” 

“My hope is that we will continue to keep Jesus at the centre of all we do and, in everything, seek to share the hope and joy that can only be found in Him.”

As the anniversary celebrations came to a close, he also reflected on what lies ahead.

“God is not done with Chelmsford Citadel. Our world has changed, and the ways we engage with our community may have evolved, but God’s promise of ‘immeasurably more’ stands firm.

“There is more grace, more love and more power in store as we give Him more of ourselves. Bring it on, Father God.”

Founded in 1886, Chelmsford Salvation Army has served the city for 140 years through worship, practical support and community outreach. While the anniversary celebrations honoured the church’s remarkable history, they also looked ahead to its future, with members committed to continuing to share hope, faith and practical support with people across Chelmsford for many years to come.

Chelmsford Salvation Army runs community activities through the week including a community drop in on Monday mornings, a parent and toddler group on Wednesdays and a lunch club on Thursdays. 

For more information go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/chelmsford-citadel or search I am connected to Chelmsford SA on Facebook