The Power of Agitators in The Salvation Army: Igniting Passion and Engagement

The Power of Agitators in The Salvation Army: Igniting Passion and Engagement

When we think about The Salvation Army, our minds often drift to images of charitable work, support for people experiencing homelessness, and those iconic brass bands at Christmas time. Yet, behind the scenes of this global Church and charity lies a key ingredient to its success: agitators. These are the people who challenge the status quo, stir up enthusiasm, and galvanise communities into action - to achieve charitable aims, but more importantly to point people to a faith in Jesus. The Salvation Army has many good pastors and shepherds of people — and we definitely need them — however, we need the agitators to ‘get stuff done’.

What is an Agitator?

In the context of The Salvation Army, an agitator isn't someone who causes trouble for the sake of it. Instead, an agitator is a passionate advocate for change, someone who inspires others to take action and who refuses to accept complacency - both material and spiritual. They are the catalysts who ensure that the mission of The Salvation Army — to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination — is carried out with fervour and innovation.

The Role of Agitators

1. Inspiring Passion: Agitators are the spark plugs of The Salvation Army. Their enthusiasm and dedication to the cause are contagious. By sharing their stories, their spirit-led vision, and their unwavering commitment, they inspire others to get involved. Whether it's through a rousing preach, a heartfelt testimony, or leading by example, these individuals ignite a fire in the hearts of those around them.

2. Challenging the Status Quo: Change is often met with resistance, and complacency can creep into any organisation, especially The Salvation Army. Agitators challenge this by questioning old methods and proposing new ways to tackle problems. They are not afraid to push boundaries and think outside the box. This constant push for innovation should keep The Salvation Army dynamic and responsive to the ever-changing needs of society.

3. Mobilising Resources: Beyond just inspiring passion, agitators are skilled at mobilising resources — be it time, money, or people power. They are adept at rallying the soldiership, organising fundraising events, and creating partnerships with other organisations. Their ability to bring together various resources ensures that The Salvation Army can effectively carry out its God-given mission.

4. Building Community: Agitators foster a sense of community and belonging. They understand that meaningful change is achieved through collective effort. By bringing people together and creating a supportive network, they build a strong foundation for sustainable impact. This sense of community not only amplifies The Salvation Army's efforts but also provides a support system for those involved.

Real-World Impact

Consider the example of Captain Dr John Clifton, an agitator whose tireless work in East London has transformed countless lives. Through his unyielding advocacy for people experiencing homelessness, development of a team of leaders, and an inability to accept the status quo, Captain Clifton has not only raised awareness and built resilience, but also spearheaded initiatives that provide pastoral care, housing, training, and support services. His efforts have galvanised local communities and attracted substantial support from other organisations. There are many other examples of Salvation Army officers working in this way.

Conclusion

Agitators contribute to the heartbeat of The Salvation Army, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and impactful Church and charity — we ignore them at our peril. They are the ones who refuse to let the fire die out, who challenge us to do better, and who bring people together to achieve extraordinary things. Their importance cannot be overstated, for without agitators, the passion and engagement that drive The Salvation Army's mission would wane. As we continue to face new challenges and opportunities, it is these passionate advocates who will lead the way, inspiring us all to make a difference. We need more of them!