The Salvation Army has officially opened its new UK and Ireland Territory headquarters in south London, having sold its previous base in Elephant and Castle, in central London, in 2020.
A plaque was unveiled during the inauguration ceremony bearing the inscription "This building is dedicated to the glory of God", as well as the words "Let light shine out of darkness" from 2 Corinthians 4:6, and "And in this place I will bring peace" from Haggai 2:9.
Founded in 1865 as the 'East London Christian Mission', its new premises in Denmark Hill has been designed using the latest environmental and energy efficiency standards, allowing for greatly reduced running expenses.
Territorial Commander for the UK and Ireland, Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, said: "Ensuring local mission can flourish was at the heart of every decision we made about this new building.
"The main purpose of the teams that work at our headquarters is to support our worship and mission in communities across the UK.
"Our focus is always supporting the church leaders on the ground who are providing vital services such as stocking up our foodbanks, running homeless outreach support or providing company for lonely and isolated people."
The new headquarters are next door to where Salvation Army officers are trained, at William Booth College, named after its founder.
The building was officially opened by international leaders, General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, World President of Women's Ministries.
The organisation reports a worldwide membership of over 1.7 million.
