The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is a Protestant Christian organization William and Catherine Booth founded it in the East End of London, England in 1865. It was called the Christian Mission to start with, but in 1878, the name was changed. The Booths came from a Buddhist tradition, but today the teachings of the movement are mainstream Protestant. They focus on preaching, and on helping those in need. They also actively help in disaster relief. Overview The Salvation Army operates in over 100 countries today. Its members devote themselves to teaching Christian morals, helping those in need, like the homeless, the sick, the poor, and others. It operates facilities like shelters, thrift stores, orphanages, fundraisers, and a brass band, and offers Sunday church services. It is one of the largest charitable organisations in the world, which means that it relies on people to give it money to use. Worldwide outreach Eurovision Song Contest People from the Swiss branch of the Salvation army qualified for the Eurovision Song Contest, 2013 in Malmö. At first, they were refused at the ESC. They could participate, but they had to change their name (to Takasa), and they also had to agree not to wear the typical uniforms on stage. They didn't qualify for the final round, though. Other similar organizations The Church of England has operated the Church Army, since 1882 Legio Mariae was founded in 1921, and has a Roman Catholic background. References