Brandon Corps Celebrates 125 years of Service

Brandon, MB – On a cold day in January 1887 the first Salvation Army Officers arrived in Brandon.  Immediately upon disembarking from the train, they held their first meeting.  From the humble beginnings of this first meeting, The Salvation Army first began serving the Brandon area a Roller Rink located on 10^th and Princess.  From there they moved about to different locations before settling in 1907 at the corner of 7^th and Princess.  In 1962, The Salvation Army moved to its present location at 9 Princess Avenue East.  Today The Salvation Army in Brandon offers 7 programs and services at its Princess Avenue location as well as the Dinsdale Personal Care Home located at 510 6^th Street.

Last weekend, The Salvation Army celebrated its 125^th Anniversary of serving Brandon and its surrounding communities.

“We are thrilled to celebrate 125 years of Giving Hope in Brandon,” stated Captain Rhonda Smith, The Salvation Army Corps Officer, “To use the words of our Founder, William Booth, we are a church called to ‘do something’.  For more than a century we have been doing just that.  Whatever the need, if we are able to meet it, we do.  In the past The Salvation Army has offered various services such as emergency and disaster relief, a court program, and food bank.  Today we continue providing emergency relief, food, clothing, day camps and other programs such as Positive Lifestyles Program, Pioneer Club for Children and various church related activities that are open to all members of the public.  We look forward to continuing being a positive, transformational influence in our community for many, many years to come.”

On Saturday, October 13^th, The Salvation Army Brandon Corps invited the community to a free concert at The Salvation Army Community Church located at 9 Princess Avenue East.  Guests began arriving at 6 pm to mix and mingle as they viewed a display illustrating the history of The Salvation Army in Brandon.  The concert began at 7 pm with lively singing and entertainment.  Afterwards all guests were treated to a community reception.  Special guests for the event were Majors Wayne and Debbie Bungay, Divisional Leaders of The Salvation Army in the Prairies, as well as the Saskatoon Temple Band.

Celebrations also took place the following morning at The Salvation Army Community Church.  After the worship service, community guests, soldiers and friends participated in a wonderful potluck.  To God be the glory for supplying all our needs in Christ Jesus!