The territorial commander of the Bermuda Salvation Army discussed how the organisation evolved from disturbing the island’s religious establishment to a 130-year bond.

Commissioner Lee Graves, who oversees the Salvation Army Bermuda and Canada Territories with his wife Commissioner Debbie Graves, said the organisation’s pioneers on the island in the late 19th century, and the survivors of the Sea Venture shipwreck almost three centuries earlier, both found ways forward after crises.

He explained: “Every Salvation Army soldier 130 years ago faced intense public mockery and social isolation, yet they possessed what Paul the Apostle called holy endurance — the grace to stay when the wind was entirely against.”

Mr Graves added: “For over 13 decades, that early courageous disruption transformed into an enduring civic bond.”

He spoke during a celebration of the Salvation Army Bermuda’s 130th anniversary at City Hall yesterday, and noted how Hamilton has been crucial to this legacy.

He said: “Through our shelters, food banks, addiction programmes and places of worship, we continue to stand alongside [the city’s] leadership to live out a vision ensuring that the vulnerable are never invisible.

“We look forward to the next chapter, the next 130 years, serving Hamilton with that same underlying encouraging and holy endurance.”

Ed Christopher, Hamilton town crier, read out a proclamation highlighting the work of the organisation. The event also featured music from the Salvation Army band.

Part of the proclamation read: “Generations of Salvation Army officers, volunteers and supporters have strengthened our communities through worship, service, outreach and a steadfast commitment to helping those in need.

“This milestone provides an opportunity to honour their legacy and recognise the enduring contribution of The Salvation Army to Bermuda’s social and spiritual life.”

Michael Branco, the Mayor of Hamilton, said The Salvation Army has endured by adapting to Bermuda’s needs while remaining committed to serving others and offering hope.

This endurance was shown yesterday when rain forced the event to relocate inside the City Hall lobby halfway through.

Andrew Murdoch, the Governor, said: “Through times of hardship and times of prosperity, its mission of service has touched lives across the island and strengthened the fabric of our society.

“This anniversary provides an opportunity to not only reflect on the remarkable legacy of faith and service, but also to recognise dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters whose commitment has made that legacy possible.”

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said organisations such as The Salvation Army helped the Government reach out to the community, as well as “respond to immediate needs and create opportunities for individuals and families to move forward”.

• Anniversary celebrations continue with a reunion of people who have been impacted by The Salvation Army and a special concert, both at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts, today starting at 5pm and 6pm respectively, and a “March of Witness” walk from the charity’s old headquarters at the corner of Front Street and Court Street, to the North Street Citadel, starting at 9am tomorrow, with the United Worship Service at North Street Citadel, at 10am

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