In August, The Salvation Army in Fernie, B.C., celebrated 125 years of active service in the community. A moving prayer breakfast at a local hotel kicked off the anniversary weekend, followed by a family fun afternoon in the parking lot of the thrift store with a dunk tank, bouncy castle, games, a free barbecue and live music by an ensemble of band members from the Canadian Staff Band and Cariboo Hill Temple in Burnaby, B.C. More than 150 people attended.

The following day, corps and community members gathered for a parade outside the old Salvation Army hall. Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries, as well as Lt-Colonel Tiffany Marshall, divisional commander, British Columbia Division, joined the march down to Rotary Park where the band performed a free concert. In the evening, attendees enjoyed a celebratory dinner where testimonies were shared and Commissioner Lee Graves offered a meaningful address.

The weekend ended with a Sunday morning worship service, including the enrolment of three adherents, followed by a luncheon.

“The Salvation Army here basically ‘grew up’ with the Fernie community. Our work unofficially began here at the same time the town was incorporated in 1898,” explain Majors Jennifer and Rick Robins, corps officers. “Through fires, floods, unofficered periods and times of abundant ministry, God has been faithful to continue the caring and compassionate ministry through everyday people who saw and still see a need that The Salvation Army can meet here in our city.”

The weekend followed the theme “Remember, Reconnect, Renew,” which emerged out of prayer. Its purpose was to encourage corps members to remember who they are as Salvationists and residents of the Elk Valley of the East Kootenays, and to acknowledge the rich history of resilience, hard work, faithfulness, compassion and dedication that defines their identity. Secondly, Majors Robins hoped to use this anniversary to reconnect and foster a sense of unity and reconciliation in the community. Finally, Fernie Corps wanted the congregation to renew their relationship and commitment to God whose grace and guidance has made ministry possible for so many years.

Psalm 125 was the focus Scripture for the weekend, concentrating on God’s endurance and continual provision. According to Major Jennifer, there are few other organizations that have continued uninterrupted for 125 years in the community. Yet, The Salvation Army was present through two great fire disasters in 1904 and 1908, as well as several mine disasters. “The Salvation Army has persevered through it all and continues to serve each and every day,” she says. “God has been faithful, and we trust that he will use the Army and its people to make a transforming difference in the community in the days and years ahead.”