The Salvation Army Church
Our symbols: shield, crest and flag
The Salvation Army's symbols
Organization
In keeping with its name, The Salvation Army somewhat resembles a military structure: at the head of the organization is the “General” (whose office is located in London, UK), the rank-and-file members are called “soldiers,” and the clergy are known as “officers.” All of them wear uniforms and insignia (badges, emblems, etc.). Traditionally, the Salvation Army’s street marches and processions are accompanied by music from brass bands, but its military structure is purely symbolic.
Uniform
Only those who have dedicated their lives to the Lord Jesus Christ, become His followers, and have chosen to serve God within the ranks of The Salvation Army have the right and privilege to wear the uniform.
When, in 1878, William Booth shared his vision for the development of the Army’s ministry at one of his meetings, Elijah Cadman said: “I want to wear such a garment that shows everyone that I am ready to fight to the last drop of blood in the battle for the salvation of the world.” Soon, a wide variety of uniforms appeared. Men wore jackets and coats of various styles, helmets or military caps with a metal plate attached bearing the inscription: “The Salvation Army.” Women wore black straw hats with blue ribbons, and later with red ribbons, bearing the same inscription.
The style of the uniform has changed slightly over time. It may vary depending on the country where the Army is located. However, its purpose remains unchanged: it symbolizes participation in the battle against sin and serves as a testimony that God saves sinners.
The letter “S” on the uniform symbolizes that every soldier and officer of The Salvation Army is saved to save and saved to serve. The uniform demonstrates to others the readiness of the saved to serve those in need.
Shield
The red shield is an international symbol of The Salvation Army’s social ministry.
Easily recognizable, it speaks to the determination of the saved to serve others. The red color symbolizes salvation, available to all through the blood of Jesus Christ, while the shield serves as a reminder of the Scripture’s reference to the shield of faith, which protects God’s children. It also reminds us that, as Christians, we are called to be a shield for others in our service.
Crest
The Salvation Army’s crest was designed by Captain W. H. Ebden in 1878 for the headquarters, when the Christian Mission officially began to carry the name The Salvation Army.
The crest includes seven symbols representing the core doctrines of The Salvation Army. Initially, it reflected the faith and mission of The Salvation Army as both a church and an organization.
The circle of the sun symbolizes the light and fire of the Holy Spirit.
The cross at the center of the crest represents the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The letter “S” stands for salvation.
The swords symbolize the struggle all Christians face against the forces of evil in this world.
The crown represents the crown of glory with which God crowns all those who remain faithful to Him.
The motto “Blood and Fire” speaks of the blood of Jesus Christ, shed on the cross for the redemption of our sins, and the fire of the Holy Spirit, which can make us holy and empower us.
Flag
The Salvation Army’s flag flies in all the countries where we operate. The flag was created to symbolize the foundations of the movement’s teachings. Since 1878, when Catherine Booth presented the first flag of The Salvation Army at the Coventry Corps, the design has remained unchanged, regardless of where in the world the Army is located.
- The blue color symbolizes the holiness of God the Father and the holy living to which Christians are called
- The red color reminds us of the blood of Jesus Christ, shed for our sins.
- The yellow star at the center symbolizes the power and fire of the Holy Spirit.
- The motto “Blood and Fire” strengthens this symbolism.
The flag is not an object of worship, but it is used everywhere with respect due to the truths reflected upon it.
