Soldier (The Salvation Army)

The soldier expresses his or her commitment in every area of life, but more specifically through the ministry and work of a local Salvation Army corps.

Salvationist Soldiers are considered by their peers to be 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 [2] published by the International Headquarters of The Salvation Army.

The text of the covenant, which is quoted below, reflects the Army's determination to remain faithful to its standards and principles.

The soldier makes a public declaration by reading the articles aloud and will often first wear a Salvation Army uniform on this day.

Similarly in many corps soldiers forgo the tunic and simply wear "summer" uniform all year round.

Such opponents argue that it is immoral or deceptive to ask a child to sign a lifelong covenant at that age, particularly when they are too young to legally engage in some of the activities singled out in the Articles of War (consuming alcohol, smoking, etc.).

In Australia Junior soldiers have opted to wear a polo shirt reflecting the colours of The salvation Army flag (either blue, yellow or red).

I promise to pray, to read my Bible, and to lead a life that is clean in thought, word and deed.