AN ARMY WITHOUT GUNS

Hokitika Guardian, 8 June 1929, Page 2

AN ARMY WITHOUT GUNS

TWENTY MILLION MEALS A YEAR An unparalleled romance of growth in a religious body occurred when the Salvation Army, over whose leadership there lias been a crisis, expanded from the humblest beginnings to world-wide establishment, and became, in fact, an international army. Although only born' in 1866, the movement was so inspired by Liu* late. General Booth and his family that by 1020 not only was Britain covered with detachments, headquarters, and bands, but seventy-three lands abroad had also been “invaded.” . To-day the motto, “Through Blood and Fire,” is known and respected in eighty-three countries, in each of which the Army maintains an efficient organisation for [•reaching and looking after the poor. It supplies through its hundreds of hostels, food depots, and shelters nearly 11.060,001) beds and over 20,000,009 meals to the needy every year. Its funds come chiefly from members, hut during Self-Denial Week the Army collects large sums from the public to help the work.

Women and children are also looked alter in numerous homes and institutions. Farms are run for unemployed, and emigration is actively assisted. The funds and assets have increased from insignificant dimensions, until to-day they are valued at between £20.000,000 and £30.000.000. Further evidence of the Army’s immense/growth can lie seen at St. Albans, where great factories have been erected to provide the very large suplilies of music, literature, uniforms and caps required.