The Salvation Army, a Christian denomination, on Thursday launched its 90th anniversary celebration with a call on Christians not to be only concerned about the spiritual needs of people but their physical needs as well.
The celebration on the theme, “Fire for Right” brought together church and religious leaders from all walks of life.
Speaking at the launch, Right Reverend Professor Emmanuel Martey, Moderator of the General Assembly of Presbyterian Church of Ghana, lauded the church for its contribution towards the growth of Christianity in the country.
He expressed appreciation to King Hudson, popularly called Awortwe Atta, who established the church in Ghana for his sacrifice and vision regardless persecution when he initiated the move to introduce the church at Agona Duakwa in the Central Region.
“Sometimes, one has to go through some hardship in life for some dreams and visions of God to be achieved”.
Rt-Rev Martey congratulated the Church for sending missionaries to Togo to establish a branch in an effort to spread the Church and the gospel.
Reverend Dr Fred Deegbe, General Secretary, Christian Council of Ghana, commended the Church for its regular financial contribution towards the Council to operate efficiently and effectively.
“Although the Church which is the body of Christ is facing many challenges, the message of salvation should be continually spread since it is the only hope”.
Rev. Deegbe commended the Church for its numerous contributions in terms of projects towards the country's socio-economic development.
Colonel Charles Swansbury, Ghana Territorial Commander, said the Church had established 157 branches, 201 schools across the country, 11 health centres and four vocational training centres.
“It has 23,148 junior and senior soldiers within the country, of which 186 are commissioned officers”.
He said the church was recognised internationally as the largest voluntary care organisation in the world.
“Our officers are ordained as Ministers of the religion, its churches are designated as corps, and members of its congregations are enrolled as soldiers”.
Colonel Swansbury said the Church would not rest on its oars but continued to work to pay its due to the socio-economic development of the country and the spiritual needs of its members.
