The Salvation Army looks to the future at Senedd event

‘As relevant today as it has always been’ will be the message as the work of The Salvation Army in Wales over the past 150 years is celebrated at The Senedd. 

Politicians, religious leaders, members of The Salvation Army and people who have benefited from its work will be among those gathering for a reception at the Senedd this evening (Tuesday 19 November) helping to bring a year of special events, prayers and celebration towards a close. 

Darren Millar, who Chairs the Senedd’s Cross Party Group on Faith, is sponsoring the special event to mark a century-and-a-half since The Salvation Army first met in Wales at The Gospel Hall, Bute Street, Cardiff on 15 November 1874. 

The leader of The Salvation Army in Wales, Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Roberts, said:  

“We are extremely grateful to Darren Millar for sponsoring this event at the Welsh Parliament on behalf of The Salvation Army, not far from the site of our first meeting. It is a great opportunity to showcase our work across Wales highlighting the contribution of our community churches and our social services. 

“The issues faced by people in Wales mean that the support we provide is as relevant today as it has always been, delivered through our mission work, social services and ecumenical partnerships. 

“This reception will be one of the high points in a year of thanksgiving and reflection, not only marking the achievements of yesteryear, but also highlighting our continuing impact in Wales.”  

The anniversary year has been called Dyma Gariad meaning ‘Here Is Love’ celebrating ‘God’s story, our story, your story’. The work in Wales was started by John Allen at The Gospel Hall, which stood on a site close to Tŷ Gobaith Lifehouse. In 1877 Cardiff Roath Temple opened and Merthyr Tydfil Corps (church) was established a year later. In 1886 a Rescue Home opened its doors in Splott as a refuge for women experiencing domestic abuse and poverty. By the start of the 20th century, we had established 120 worshipping communities in Wales.  

Lt. Col. Roberts added: 

“Our presence across communities in Wales has evolved since 1874. However, we continue to address many of the same issues today, such as homelessness, addiction, debt and exploitation of vulnerable people.” 

To find out more about the history in Wales tune in on Friday 27 December when a special edition of the church and charity’s ‘All Terrain’ podcast will feature historian Steven Spencer, Director of The Salvation Army’s International Heritage Centre. Steven will trace a ‘virtual’ journey through the Welsh Valleys to Cardiff Bay, stopping off at significant sites along the way that have special significance to The Salvation Army, Wales and its people. To access the podcast and accompanying notes or listen to previous episodes visit: https://www.salvationist.org.uk/media/all-terrain-podcast