International Women’s Day: Celebrating Female Leadership in The Salvation Army

March 8, 2026 marks International Women’s Day—a day that celebrates women’s empowerment and advocates for gender equality. Thankfully, The Salvation Army is no stranger to elevating women in leadership and boldly defending women’s rights.

This commitment dates back to The Salvation Army’s inception in 1865, with founders William and Catherine Booth.

“I insist on woman’s equality. Every officer and soldier should hold to it that woman is as important, as valuable, as capable, and as necessary to the progress and the happiness of the world as man.” – William Booth, 1908

Catherine Booth was not only the co-founder of this radical movement, but also a respected preacher and writer who was known for her work in social reform and for fighting for women’s rights. From the beginning, women were commissioned as officers, preaching, planting churches, leading social ministries, and shaping the Army’s growth.

Over the last 160 years, The Salvation Army has valued women’s leadership while also continuing to work toward gender equality and what that means in 2026.

Today, Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham holds the international leadership position of World President of Women’s Ministries, a role that equips and empowers women across the 130+ countries where The Salvation Army serves. Her leadership guides and encourages other women leaders to engage with their communities.

“Together, may we be bold in speaking out with wisdom and grace, and may we be courageous in our pursuit of justice.” – Commissioner Buckingham, 2024

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we look ahead with hope, inspired by the generations of women before us who have helped shape The Salvation Army’s movement, and those who will continue to lead it into the future.

We look forward to welcoming Commissioner Buckingham and General Lyndon Buckingham to St. John’s, N.L. this April during their Territorial Tour. To learn more, click here.

By Janessa Hynes