The Salvation Army beneficial to society or the community of mankind as a whole". The Army was founded in 1865 in London by one-time Methodist circuit-preacher William Booth and his wife Catherine as the East London Christian Mission, and can trace its origins to the Blind Beggar tavern. In 1878 Booth reorganised the mission, becoming its first General and introducing the military structure which has been retained as a matter of tradition. Its highest priority is its Christian principles. The current international leader of The Salvation Army and chief executive officer (CEO) is General Brian Peddle, who was elected by the High Council
Soldier (The Salvation Army) covenanted warriors exercising 'holy passion' to win the world for Jesus. The covenant, known as the Soldier's Covenant, is a lifelong commitment to God through The Salvation Army that is fleshed out by a full book of Orders and Regulations called "Chosen to Be a Soldier" published by the International Headquarters of The Salvation Army. There is also a complete book, formerly called the "Handbook of Doctrine", reprinted as "Salvation Story" in 1998, and in 2010 became "Handbook of Doctrine" available as a free download that explains the doctrines to which the soldier subscribes. The text of the covenant, which