William Booth (1829-1912) was a man of unwavering faith who dedicated his life to social reform and helping the most vulnerable. Born on April 10, 1829, in Sneinton, Nottingham, England, Booth’s early life was marked by financial hardship. His father, a speculative builder, lost everything, leaving a lasting impact on young William’s worldview. Despite limited formal education, Booth found solace and purpose in religion at the age of 15, experiencing a profound conversion that ignited his passion for helping others. This newfound zeal led him to become a Methodist preacher, but Booth soon felt constrained by the established church structure.
Driven to reach the poor and marginalized, Booth and his wife Catherine founded the Christian Mission in London’s East End in 1865. This organization, with its focus on street preaching and social services, aimed to uplift those forgotten by society. Recognising the need for a more structured approach, Booth transformed the mission into The Salvation Army in 1878. Borrowing from military terminology and uniforms, he created a disciplined and mobile force dedicated to tackling poverty, addiction, and homelessness. The Salvation Army’s message of hope and practical assistance resonated deeply, leading to rapid expansion across the globe. William Booth, revered as the “General” of the Army, tirelessly advocated for social reform and inspired countless volunteers. He passed away on August 20, 1912, in Hadley Wood, Barnet, England, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and a global organization that continues to serve the underprivileged today.
