The Social Work of the Salvation ArmyLamb, Edwin Gifford
History
The Social Work of the Salvation Army
Lamb, Edwin Gifford
Poor; Salvation Army; Social history
"I do not claim that my scheme is either perfect in its details, or
complete in the sense of being adequate to combat all forms of
gigantic evils, against which it is, in the main, directed. Like
other human things, it must be perfected through suffering; but it
is a sincere endeavor to do something, and to do it on principles,
which can be instantly applied and universally developed."[7]
And again, in view of some of the manifestations of the organization as
we see it, the following is interesting, as coming from its founder. He
says: "But one of the grimmest social problems of our time should be
sternly faced, not with a view to the generation of profitless emotions,
but with a view to its solution."[8]
Upon the publication of this book there arose a division of opinion in
regard to the scheme which was set forth. On the one hand, numbers of
noted philanthropists aided General Booth with money and moral support.
On the other hand, there was opposition from a certain class of
reformers, headed by that eminent scientist, Thomas Huxley. This
opposition, however, did not so much attack the principles advocated,
as the agency for their application, namely, the Salvation Army, itself,
characterized in Huxley's words as "Autocratic socialism, masked by its
theological exterior."[9]
From that time to the present many thoughtful men have continued this
opposition to the Army as an agent of social service. Further on we
shall consider the validity and strength of their arguments. At that
time the press on all sides took up the controversy, and it was finally
decided to appoint a committee of investigation to thoroughly examine
the Army's methods and institutions and publish a report. This committee
was composed of some of the leading business and public men of England,
headed by Sir Wilfred Lawson. They examined the books of the Army and
studied the system and methods of the movement. They reported that all
was entirely satisfactory and not only so, but that the movement and
work was worthy of commendation.[10]
The report of this Committee, together with a demonstration of the work
already accomplished, served to silence the critics to some extent, and
public favor began to turn toward the movement. Since that period the
Army has had, generally speaking, the support of the press and many of
the leading men throughout the world, a support which it has not been
slow to recognize, or to utilize. For instance, about this time, we find
the following appeal issued through the English press:
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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