Religious Services

What is a Salvation Army meeting like?
Do I need to wear a uniform?
Can anybody attend?
Will I fit in?
Are Salvationists full-time?
If The Salvation Army is a church, can you conduct weddings?


What is a Salvation Army meeting like?

Salvationists, and everyone who wishes to join with us either on an occasional or regular basis, meet to worship God, to discover how to live as Christians and to enjoy each other’s company.

Many people attending an Army meeting for the first time find the informal style of worship refreshing and relaxing.

On going into a Salvation Army hall you will discover there is a cheerful bustle before the meeting as people greet and chat to each other. If a corps has a band and songster brigade (the choir) they might play or sing before the meeting begins. Other types of musical instruments used may include piano, organ, guitars, woodwind and percussion.

Salvation Army meetings don’t have a set order of service. They usually include plenty of hymn singing, and there may be group or individual music items. Occasionally a dance or drama group may be used to help with the worship. Verses from the Bible are read in every meeting.

While an officer usually leads the meeting and gives the ‘address’ (sermon), other people can do both or may be invited to take part by praying, reading out verses of hymns or from the Bible, or by talking about their Christian experience.

All these factors help to give Salvation Army meetings their own special character.


Do I need to wear a uniform?

No, you don't! Many of the people who attend the Salvation Army do wear their Salvation Army uniform, but you will also find plenty of people who don't. There is no dress code at The Salvation Army!


Can anybody attend?

Of course. . . and it's free! Your local Salvation Army church (corps) will be happy to see you and your family and would encourage you to come and meet them.


Will I fit in?

One of the benefits of a large church is the diversity of its congregation. Chances are, you'll find people in The Salvation Army who are just like you, and who will be happy to welcome you into our fellowship. If you feel too shy to come along by yourself, why not bring a friend?


Are Salvationists full-time?

The vast majority of Salvationists are not full-time and have busy day to day home and work lives very much like everyone else. Our members represent a wide variety of careers in their lives outside of church.


If The Salvation Army is a Church, can you conduct weddings?

Salvation Army officers are ordained ministers of religion. They conduct marriages, funerals and dedications of children (christenings). If you'd like more information, please contact us.