Symbols and Terminology in Salvation Army
The Salvation Army Indonesia Territorial Headquarters serves as the hub of the organization's operations and initiatives in Indonesia. With a mission to meet human needs without discrimination, we strive to provide assistance and support to individuals and communities facing challenges and difficulties.
Red Shield
The Salvation Army's red shield with white lettering is worldwide and internationally recognized as the symbol of the Salvation Army's service to those in need according to the motto “Heart To God, Hand To Man”.
Crest
A symbol of the Salvation Army's beliefs since 1878 that emphasizes its doctrinal statements. There is also a description of the Crest as follows:
- The sun (which is circular) symbolizes the light and fire of the Holy Spirit
- The cross of Jesus Christ standing in the middle symbolizes the victory of faith
- The letter 'S' symbolizes salvation from sin
- The sword symbolizes the battle against sin
- The seven small circles under the cross symbolize the truth of the gospel
- The crown symbolizes God's reward for His faithful people
- “Blood and Fire” symbolizes the blood of Jesus Christ shed on the cross to save all people, and the fire of the Holy Spirit that purifies believers.
Flag
In 134 countries around the world, the Salvation Army flag is a symbol against sin and evil. The red color of the flag represents the blood of Jesus Christ; the blue border represents the holiness of God; and the yellow star in the center represents the fire of the Holy Spirit.
It is used on special occasions of worship such as weddings, funerals, dedication of children to God, ordination of a Salvation Army soldier, and other special services. The Salvation Army flag has been in use since 1878.
Uniform Clothing and the wearing of S signs
The wearing of uniforms for Salvation Army Officers/Priests in daily service activities is an expression of faith in the salvation of Jesus Christ and discipline to always be ready to serve so that others also receive salvation and live in God's grace. The S sign means Selamat (salvation), also interpreted as Saved to Serve. The uniform applies to officers in 134 countries where the Salvation Army serves and has been in place since 1878.
Appointment
Along with the values of discipline and loyalty to the calling of service, a military-like ranking system is applied for Salvation Army Officers/Clergs, namely: Lieutenant, Captain, Major, Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel, Commissioner. This ranking level is the same and applies in 134 countries where the Salvation Army exists.
Officer
They are Salvation Army clergy who have completed their education and training at the Salvation Army Officers Education and Training Center, who were then ordained and installed as servants of God.
Officers are assigned to various places of service with duties including church leadership, social programs, or management. An officer is equivalent to a full-time pastor in other Christian denominations.
Soldier
Members of the Salvation Army church are those who have entered into a sacred covenant regarding their lifestyle and beliefs in harmony with the Bible. They will make the values of the Kingdom of God the standard for their lives, demonstrate Christian integrity in their actions, uphold Christian ideals in their relationships, and uphold the sanctity of marriage and family life. Soldiers wear uniforms to Sunday services. However, non-soldiers who do not wear uniforms may attend services and support the Salvation Army's ministry. They are called sympathizers.
Corps
It is the name for the Salvation Army church. In community activities, a corps can also be used as a place of activity.
