Salvation Army in Burgess Hill marks 125th anniversary

Salvation Army leaders in Burgess Hill were joined by local people to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the church and charity in the town.

A weekend of special events got underway with a concert led by the Brass Band and Songsters from The Salvation Army in Worthing at St John The Evangelist Church on Church Road to celebrate the help and support provided by generations of Salvation Army members and volunteers over the years.

David Blowers, Divisional Support Officer, introduced the concert and explained why he thought The Salvation Army in Burgess Hill has such staying power.

He said: "This anniversary does not mark the acclaimed, inspirational ministry of an international leader but the consistent ministry of predominantly ordinary local people ministering in their local community,  through which God continues to be glorified".

Celebrations continued into a second day when the Worthing Band returned to lead a special service at The Salvation Army on Cyprus Road.

Vinnie Stolle, secretary for the church, organised both events and said the weekend showed how valued The Salvation Army is by the local community. 

He said: “I’d like to thank everyone who joined our celebrations. We’re excited to have been present in Burgess Hill for 125 years and we are still here to provide spiritual help and support to everyone who seeks our help. With new church leaders soon to take up position here, the future of our church is in the hands of people who are committed and love to do God’s work in our community.”

The Salvation Army opened in Burgess Hill in October 1898 in a small hall in Mill Road under the leadership of two female officers, Captain Wiggins and Lieutenant Stanley. The early days were so successful the need for a bigger hall became quickly apparent and The Salvation Army moved in 1906. In 1952, the church formed a cycle brigade to carry out meetings in outlying villages. 

The Salvation Army in Burgess Hill now offers a Young at Heart/Over 60s club and Lunch Club on Wednesdays and Sally Ann’s Drop-In on Fridays from 10am to 2pm which is an opportunity to meet for a chat, join a craft workshop or play board games. Worship is at 10.30am from 11.45am on Sundays. 

Majors Bramwell and Rhonda Hayes are due to take over as leaders of the church later this month.

You can find out more about The Salvation Army in Burgess Hill by searching The Salvation Army Burgess Hill on Facebook or by clicking here
 

Alternatively, you can ring 01444 235561.