The Salvation Army in Finland celebrates 130 years
2019 is the 130th anniversary of The Salvation Army in Finland.
Officers Constantin Boije af Gennäs, Hedvig von Haartman and Alva Forsius, straight out of officer training in London, organised the first meeting of The Salvation Army at Siltasaari circus riding ring in Hakaniemi on 8November 1889. That was the beginning of the activities of The Salvation Army in Finland. After initial difficulties the movement spread all over the country. Over the decades, The Salvation Army in Finland has affected the lives of hundreds of thousands of people.
General Brian Peddle visits Finland
General Peddle is the 21st General of the Salvation Army.
He assumed office on August 2018. Brian Peddle is from Canada, and wascommissioned and ordained as a Salvation Army officer in 1977. In addition to his native country, he has served as an officer in the UK and in the New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga Territory with his wife Rosalie Peddle. Prior to his appointment as the General, he worked as Chief of Staff at the International Headquarters in London.The couple have two daughters as well as five grandchildren. Their common interests include cycling and hiking. This is the first visit to Finland for General and Commissioner Peddle.
The International Salvation Army works in 131 countries. In addition to its church activities, The Salvation Army provides health, education and housing services. It brings hope and practical help to hundreds of millions of people in different parts of the world. The Salvation Army also responds to earthquakes, floods and other emergencies. Relief response continues even after the acute situation is over.
Anniversary weekend programme
We celebrate the 130 year old Salvation Army 20–22 September in Helsinki. The international leaders of the Salvation Army, General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle are our guests. Musical celebration is on Friday 20 September 6.30 pm at Rock church (Lutherinkatu 3). Actor Seela Sella and Salvation Army musicians will perform. On Saturday there is a women’s rally and commissioning and ordination at Helsinki Templet (Uudenmaankatu 40). Sunday service at Temple Corps concludes the weekend.
