The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters (IHQ) will once again be opening its doors to the public as part of Open House London 2018, marking the ninth time that it has done so. Open House London provides free access to many of the UK capital’s most famous buildings – at least 800 will feature this year. The initiative is intended to inspire the public with ‘the benefits of great design’. IHQ will be participating on 22 September 2018 from 10am to 4.30pm.
As in previous years, there will be opportunities throughout the day for guided tours of the unique building (last tour at 4pm) – including areas not usually open to the public – and to learn more about its history.
Commissioner Dawn Heatwole, chaplain to IHQ’s staff and organiser of its involvement in Open House London, says: ‘Our building sits at an important location in the heart of London – between St Paul’s Cathedral and Millennium Bridge. We have an opportunity to be a light, and our building reflects that – transparent, with words from Scripture to help tell our story. The inside of the building is as beautiful as the outside. If you’ve walked past it on your daily commute, or while strolling through London, and always wondered about The Salvation Army – stop in and hear more of our mission and ministry.’
This facility, opened in 2004, is the latest on a site that has been home to The Salvation Army since 1881. Visitors will be able to explore areas including the International Chapel, the office of the General, and to learn about the award-winning design of the building. There will also be screenings of a special film featuring Andrew Chadwick, chief architect.
Café 101 will be open for visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments, and there will be activities for children including face painting. Major Beverly Ivany, writer of the daily devotional series Words of Life, will be present to answer questions about her writing ministry and to sign copies of the book.
