The Salvation Army was founded as an evangelical organization. The desire was to bring people into a meaningful relationship with God through Christ. Its doctrinal basis is that of the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. The organization is composed of people who are united by the love of God and man, as well as the common purpose of bringing others to Jesus Christ.
Their name joins two words; the word salvation indicates the overall purpose of the Salvation Army—to motivate all people to embrace the salvation provided to them in Christ. The word army indicates that the organization is a fighting force, constantly at war with the powers of evil. Battles are effectively waged through an integrated ministry that gives attention to both body and spirit. It is a total ministry for the total person. The Salvation Army cooperates with churches of all denominations to meet the needs of the community. Those who have drifted away from God or have become estranged from their own religious affiliations are often attracted to The Salvation Army where they are urged to seek Christ.
