For 130 years, The Salvation Army has been a familiar presence in Bermuda, offering practical assistance, spiritual encouragement and hope to generations of island residents. That legacy was celebrated September 25-27, 2026, as Salvationists, community members and civic leaders gathered for a weekend of anniversary events that honoured the past while looking toward the future.

The celebrations began Friday with a proclamation ceremony at Hamilton City Hall, bringing together Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial leaders, Captain Alfred Esdaille, area commander, Governor Andrew Murdoch, Mayor Michael Branco and other distinguished guests.

Against the backdrop of City Hall, Hamilton Town Crier Ed Christopher rang the bell and announced the occasion, accompanied by music from the 130th anniversary band that blended Salvation Army musicians with the Royal Bermuda Regiment Band, under the leadership of Sheldon Fox II. The proclamation recognized generations of officers, volunteers and supporters whose contributions have strengthened Bermuda through worship, outreach and compassionate service.

Reflecting on the Army’s early history, Commissioner Lee Graves spoke of the challenges faced by its pioneers, who encountered considerable opposition as they introduced their ministry to the island. “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. That early courageous disruption transformed into an enduring civic bond.”

Mayor Branco acknowledged the Army’s ability to adapt to Bermuda’s changing needs while remaining committed to serving others and offering hope. Governor Murdoch similarly recognized the organization’s contribution, observing: “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.”

Saturday’s festivities moved to the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts at CedarBridge Academy, where a reunion brought together people whose lives have been touched by The Salvation Army. Salvationists, volunteers, donors and beneficiaries gathered to reconnect, share memories and celebrate friendships formed over many decades.

Photographs and memorabilia provided a glimpse into the Army’s rich history, while the evening’s free anniversary concert showcased the musical traditions that have long been central to Salvation Army worship and witness. The anniversary band performed Marcus Venables’ Holy Forever and Eric Ball’s Kingdom Triumphant, alongside anniversary songsters, led by Envoy Jamel Bean (West End Community Church), a singing company, a timbrel brigade and vocal soloist Eugene Phillips.

Bermudian guest trombone soloist Kevin Hayward travelled from Canada for the occasion, adding a special musical highlight. Lt-Colonel Scott Rideout, divisional commander, Atlantic Division, brought video greetings and encouragement to the audience. A particular highlight was when members of the audience who attended camps in Bermuda were invited on stage to sing a rousing version of the camp song together.

On Sunday morning, the celebrations took to the streets of Hamilton with a march of witness. Beginning at the corner of Front and Court streets, near the site of Hamilton Citadel’s first meeting place, participants retraced significant locations in the Army’s history, including the former Booth Memorial Hall.

The march included a special visit to longtime Salvationist Gwendolyn Doars, who celebrated her 100th birthday in November, before concluding at North Street Citadel for the anniversary worship service.

For Captain Esdaille, the anniversary carried particular significance as the Army’s first Bermudian area commander. His return to the island represents a homecoming rooted in faith and a desire to strengthen ministry among the people he calls neighbours and friends.

“Coming home gives us the opportunity to apply what we’ve learned abroad in ways that speak directly to the needs of our people,” he says. “We want to help create spaces of hope, inclusion and renewal across the island.”

As the weekend concluded in worship, the message was clear: the Army’s 130-year story is not simply a record of what has been accomplished, but a continuing invitation to serve.

Commissioner Graves captured that commitment in his reflection on the road ahead: “We look forward to the next chapter, the next 130 years, serving Bermuda with that same underlying encouraging and holy endurance.”

Click here for a special anniversary booklet: