Day 41: Praying for the ministry of military chaplains (1914)

Join with Salvationists of the Wales Division for day 41 of 150 days of prayer.

• ‘If someone is kind to poor people, God blesses him’ (Psalm 41:1, EasyEnglish Bible). 

1914

The 11 April War Cry reported on a campaign in Cardiff Hippodrome conducted by ‘the British Commissioner [Edward Higgins] and Mrs [Catherine] Higgins’. 

‘Mrs Higgins, who is a native of the principality, followed with a well-reasoned talk, especially emphasising the impossibility of growth in the spiritual life unless roots have been struck deeply in the soil of spiritual experience.

‘Notwithstanding that it was the occasion of the annual visit to the cemeteries, to the graves of the dead, by loved ones with a tribute of flowers (a national institution) … [there] were nearly 1,000 persons [present].’

The International Heritage Centre website says: 

‘During the First World War, The Salvation Army provided motor ambulances, refreshment huts in military camps and parcels of food and clothing for combatants. Some officers also served as chaplains. 

‘In 1917 Evangeline Booth, National Commander of The Salvation Army in America, created a National War Board to meet the needs of the American Expeditionary Forces. Salvationists were sent to Europe from the USA, including those colloquially known as “Doughnut Girls” who served food (principally doughnuts) to soldiers and often worked in field hospitals. 

‘The Naval and Military League also operated an inquiry service helping relatives and friends to find servicemen. After the war, The Salvation Army also assisted with visits to war cemeteries.’

Prayer

• Pray for the ministry of military chaplains.
• Pray in particular for Salvationists serving as chaplains to army, navy and air cadets.