The Salvation Army celebrates new home in Sleaford

The Salvation Army in Sleaford has celebrated the opening of its new building on Grantham Road, marking a significant new chapter in the story of a church that has been part of the town for 140 years. 

The special opening event on 4 September brought together members and friends of The Salvation Army, local dignitaries, supporters and guests, including the Town Mayor, Dave Darmon, Territorial Leaders of The Salvation Army: Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main, East Midlands Divisional Leader, Major Carelle Daws, and Richard and Sue Vigar of the Michael Cornish Trust, alongside many others who have helped support the church and its work. 

The occasion was an opportunity to celebrate the new building while reflecting on a remarkable history that began in Sleaford in 1886.

The new building has been a long sought-after development for the church. Its previous premises on West Banks Street had become increasingly unsuitable as the church’s community programme grew, with limited space, inadequate storage, and a kitchen that was too small to support the activities taking place. 

The new premises, complete with accessible architecture, provides much needed additional space and facilities, giving the church greater capacity to develop its programme, welcome local people and respond to the needs of the community. It also provides a more practical base for activities involving children and families, worship, community groups, social activities and opportunities for people to meet and build relationships. 

Major Dawn McGarvey, church leader of The Salvation Army at Sleaford said:  

"We have inherited a remarkable story. For 140 years, people in Sleaford have prayed, served, worshipped, welcomed others and kept the flame burning through times of change and challenge. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has helped us reach this point. 

"There is something incredibly special about seeing this building finally opening and knowing how many people have played a part in bringing us to this moment." 

The new Sleaford Salvation Army now sits where the former St Botolph's church hall once was, on Grantham Road, NG 24 7NB. 

Immense gratitude goes to the Michael Cornish Trust, The Salvation Army Legacies Unit, New Life Church, and other organisations, members and friends of the church who contributed in different ways to make the new building possible. 

The Salvation Army in Sleaford currently offers a range of activities throughout the week, including a regular Sunday Service, CAMEO group, quilting group, Stay and Play for children and their parents and carers, adults' craft group and Saturday coffee morning. 

The church also has a strong tradition of supporting people during the Christmas period, providing treats, toys and vouchers for families and people experiencing homelessness or living in supported accommodation in Grantham. For more information, follow on Facebook.