Before I retired as the international leader of The Salvation Army, I was invited to contribute to an ecumenical project, started by Australian entrepreneur Philip Ryall, which brought together faith leaders from around the world to express a desire for Christian unity. More than 30 leaders, from a variety of traditions and denominations, contributed to a book called Dear Unity: Overdue Love Letters to Heal a Divided Church. Our central theme was “that they may all be one” (John 17:21 NRSVUE).

I decided to write a letter on behalf of The Salvation Army to the broader church because I believe in the mission of God’s people in the world through his church. I also believe we can effectively witness to our faith and point people to God when we celebrate our shared identity in Christ and our shared mission through Christ. By this witness the world will see that we are one and come to faith.

My chapter is entitled “Joining God in His Work.” I have always believed that William and Catherine Booth’s vision was to facilitate a movement that would find its place in the world through its love for God and love for others, demonstrated through our service. We stand out in the body of Christ with denominational distinctives that are reflected not only in our military metaphor, but also in our bias toward the poor, less fortunate and oppressed in our communities. This is our DNA across continents and nations.

While I celebrate our place in the world, I must guard myself against boasting or proposing that The Salvation Army has a corner on this field of ministry. Though unique, our call blends with a universal call to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity. I admire leaders and Salvationists who have learned to do that in partnership with others.

Unity, from a Salvationist perspective, proposes that we remain faithful to our calling while joining others in a shared work, expertise and calling. Communities of faith across the world have learned that the church is stronger together and can accomplish much more when we work together.

I can’t imagine a world where our differences are invisible or non-existent. As Salvationists, we have distinctives that set us apart—often the things we don’t participate in leave us outside the ecumenical door. In acknowledging this reality, I am the first to point out that through all our efforts, we strive to win some. In doing so, we honour our calling, invite people into faith and build God’s kingdom. This faithful effort has ensured our place in the ecumenical family.

I have heard personally from other denominational leaders. They openly appeal to The Salvation Army to stay the course, be who God has called us to be and keep reminding everyone that the “whosoever” come first. In my time as the Army’s international leader, I often thanked God for words of encouragement from Pope Francis, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and our United Methodist, Lutheran and Orthodox friends. What we accomplish together in his name helps us see beyond our differences and gives fertile ground for the seed of unity. There is nothing sweeter than the words, “You are my brother (or sister) in Christ.”

Philip Ryall, the general editor and driving force behind Dear Unity, writes: “Dear Unity is both a book and a movement that is centred upon building a culture of honour between brothers and sisters in Christ through shared experiences and overdue expressions of love.”

“Love letters to heal a divided church.” Could it be that simple? Could it be that as each denomination responds in obedience to the prayer of Jesus, “that they may all be one,” that our witness will brighten the darkest path, soothe every open sore, bring peace to the unreconciled and salvation to all who have surrendered to the Holy One and turned their backs on the evil one? 

Imagine driving by another church and instead of a critical spirit, you pull in, park by the sign and pray. Imagine losing sight of difference and disagreement and instead working with others to cook and serve a community meal. Imagine no longer being intimidated by liturgy, charismatic worship or prayers that are uncommon in your place of worship. Imagine!

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, God will do mighty deeds among us if we forgive, stand before the world in unity and proclaim that we are one.

As I look at the world, recognize its pain and darkness, the absence of hope and the desperate plight of many, I often come back to 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (NRSVUE). It is a big prayer and promise. I wonder—is the forgiveness of sin and healing of our land linked to us becoming one?

This Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, I encourage you to share fellowship with Christians of other traditions and denominations. Where can we cross the lines that divide us to bring healing? Where can we build relationships? Where can we partner in the work of the kingdom? How can you write your own love letter to a hurting world?

Dear Unity: Overdue Love Letters to Heal a Divided Church is available on Amazon.ca.

General Brian Peddle was the international leader of The Salvation Army from 2018 to 2023.