What do you think of when you hear the words “The Salvation Army”? I am sure several iconic images may pop into your mind. Traditionally, people think of Christmas kettles and bell-ringers, thrift stores, uniforms, nursing home visitations and even brass bands … but do you know that the Army is also known for its poetry and even films? Yes, films. Under the direction of Herbert Booth, the third son of William and Catherine Booth, the Limelight Department in Melbourne, Australia produced its first feature-length film in 1899. 

Herbert, along with Adjutant Joseph Perry, wrote and directed many of the scenes, which included 150 Salvation Army officers as cast members. It also included two hundred painted glass lantern slides, hymns, music and a lecture from Herbert Booth. All these elements were incorporated into the film. It was titled “Soldiers of the Cross” and its presentation focused on the lives and deaths of the early Christian martyrs. 

Of course, there was no glitz, no glamour and no red carpet as the film premiered on a stormy night on September 13, 1900, at the Melbourne town hall. It has been estimated that there were between three to four thousand people at this showing. During the premiere, Herbert Booth discouraged applause (as it showed the martyrdom of Christians) and it was noted that according to The Salvation Army, the aim of Herbert Booth’s lecture during the film was, “Not to entertain, but to rouse religious thought; the object was not to retain cash, but to recruit cadets for Christ.” This film became an evangelistic tool not only in Australia, but everywhere Herbert went to speak. May we today, as soldiers of the cross, continue to share our faith with those looking for hope.

Slides: National Film and Sound Archive of Australia; Booth: National Archives; Perry: Salvation Army Caring Magazine; Lumiere Cinematographe: Cinematheque