Stowmarket Salvation Army to mark 140 years serving the town

The Salvation Army in Stowmarket will mark 140 years of service to the town and surrounding community in 2026, with a year-long programme of worship, music, social events and community outreach celebrating both its history and its future.

The anniversary year will officially launch on 21-22 February with a weekend of celebrations including a social evening with a buffet dinner, followed by a special service led by Major Kevin Pitt, current leader of Stowmarket Salvation Army, alongside previous leaders. A church Sunday lunch will complete the weekend.

Speaking about the anniversary, Kevin said:

“For 140 years, The Salvation Army has been serving God, supporting those in need, and standing alongside the community through good times and hard times. The anniversary is not just about looking back with gratitude, but about looking forward with hope and commitment to continue serving Stowmarket for generations to come.”

Stowmarket Salvation Army was established in February 1886, at a time when The Salvation Army faced strong opposition locally. Early members endured disruption to open-air meetings and marches, including incidents linked to publicans concerned about loss of trade. On one occasion at the Pickerel Bridge, members of the Congregational Church famously formed a guard of honour to prevent people from being pushed into the river as they walked to a meeting. In 1888, five Salvationists were charged with obstruction, raising questions in Parliament.

Despite these early challenges, The Salvation Army in Stowmarket has gone from strength to strength, worshipping over the years in four different premises, and welcoming William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army, during a visit in 1909. Its band was established in the same year.

Throughout 2026, the church will host a wide range of events open to the public, including concerts by Una Voce; a Salvation Army youth choir, Anglia Fellowship Band, Regent Hall SA Band, Charlie Greene; an international singer and finalist of Britains got Talent, and visiting Salvation Army musicians, as well as proposed social activities such as evening walks, ‘Meet and Eat’ events, a community fun-day, car treasure hunt, golf evening, and a harvest barn dance with ceilidh and hog roast.

A highlight of the year will be a Community Fun Day in June, alongside seasonal events such as Community Carols in December. The church will also run an Alpha course from September to November, offering the opportunity to explore the Christian faith in an open and welcoming environment.

As part of the anniversary, The Salvation Army will produce a booklet featuring 140 prayer topics, celebrating its past while praying into its future mission in Stowmarket. 

Kevin added:

“We would love people from across the town to join us during this special year – whether they have a long connection with The Salvation Army or are simply curious to find out more. Everyone is welcome.”

Further details of events will be shared throughout the year via social media posting and ticketing platforms including platforms – ticketsource.co.uk/stowmarket-the-salvation-army.

The Salvation Army in Stowmarket hosts a number of activities for the community during the week including a Come and Meet Each Other Club on Tuesday followed by an Over 60’s club, and Music Makers for young people aged six to 12 on Thursdays.  The Salvation Army café is also open from Monday to Friday at Café on the Rec, where you will find a warm welcome.

For more on The Salvation Army in Stowmarket and the anniversary plans, go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/stowmarket