Salvation Army marks 100 years of service in Murray Bridge
A century has passed since the local corps' citadel on Fourth Street was built.
This post was contributed by the Salvation Army’s Captain Claire Watson.
The Salvation Army has celebrated the centenary of its building on Fourth Street, Murray Bridge.
A small number gathered on Saturday afternoon to thank God for his goodness over the years, and to pray for healing and renewal.
On Sunday around 50 people gathered to celebrate, including Mayor Brenton Lewis and the leaders of the Salvation Army in South Australia and the Northern Territory, Majors Lance and Anne Jeffrey.
Major Anne enrolled Karen Strauss as an adherent, or member, of Murray Bridge Salvation Army, and Theodore Freund as a junior soldier.
The mayor shared his insights about the city of Murray Bridge, and Major Lance gave an inspiring message based on Isaiah 61 from the Bible.
The celebration was followed by lunch and a beautifully decorated cake made by Ms Strauss.
The mayor planted a tree outside the hall to commemorate the occasion.
Local resident Geoff Brown shared what he had gleaned from the Murray Bridge and District Historical Society during the meeting.
Murray Bridge Salvation Army first met in a shed on Seventh Street in 1915.
Three years later, a block of land on Fourth Street and building materials were donated by F.W. Jaensch.
The Salvation Army was officially opened in January 1922 by Commissioner Richards.
Speakers at the event included state MP John Cowan, Mobilong council chairman Maurice W. Parish and Mr Jaensch.
Reverends Wellington, Warhurst, and Erskine represented the local Methodist, Church of Christ and Presbyterian congregations, respectively.
Extensions followed in 1961 to create a supper room and utility hall.
Further extensions were added in 1977, including a Sunday school room, band room, kitchen, and toilet facilities.
Today, the Salvation Army continues to assist the community through emergency relief and financial counselling.
A community dinner is held at 5pm every first and third Thursday of the month through the generous support of local service clubs.
All are welcome each Sunday for the Christian celebration at 10am.
- More information: www.salvationarmy.org.au/murraybridge.
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