"I am for the world's salvation; I will quarrel with no means that promises help."

Refusing to be limited by tradition, William and Catherine Booth set out in 1861 to take the gospel to whomever would listen. Their small independent
ministry in the East End of London would ultimately grow into an international army for the Lord.

Using street meetings, parades, marching bands, and posters, the Booths and their followers attracted people who felt unwelcomed by traditional churches. Eventually called The Salvation Army, William and Catherine's ministry touched the poor, the destitute, and the addicted with the love of Christ.

Fiercely dedicated to obeying God's leading, neither William nor Catherine was swayed by the opposition of political or religious leaders. Their hearts were set on freeing captive souls, no matter what the cost. "It is not a question of who you are or of what you are, but of whether God controls you," observed Dr. Wilbur Chapman after an interview with William Booth. God did control the lives of William and Catherine Booth, and the work this determined couple established continues to change lives to this day.