Death Procession
The sermon 'Death Procession' honors the life and legacy of William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, and celebrates his impact on the city of London.
This sermon reflects on the passing of William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, in 1912. It highlights the honor and respect shown during his funeral procession in London, where people from all walks of life gathered to pay tribute to this dedicated soldier of God who devoted his life to serving the marginalized and lost.
Full Transcript
On the 20th of August 1912, William Booth, God's soldier, laid down his sword. Congress Hall, London. Townsend came to pay tribute.
Last time, he leaves the army headquarters in Queen Victoria Street. Through the streets of London, his funeral procession passed, through the city of which he was Freeman. The flags of nations invaded by the army were carried proudly at the head of the column.
The whole traffic of this metropolis was arrested by one of the densest multitudes that ever thronged its thoroughfare. As the carriage passed the mansion house, the Lord Mayor of London saluted the coffin. Ten thousand men and women from the ranks of the Salvation Army, specially selected to represent their comrades, walked behind their promoted leader, who had taught them to give their lives ministering to the poorest, the lowliest, and the lost.
Sermon Outline
- The Life and Legacy of William Booth
- The Funeral Procession
- The Multitude's Tribute
- The Lord Mayor's salute
- The participation of ten thousand Salvation Army members
Key Quotes
“Last time, he leaves the army headquarters in Queen Victoria Street.” — William Booth
“The whole traffic of this metropolis was arrested by one of the densest multitudes that ever thronged its thoroughfare.” — William Booth
“Ten thousand men and women from the ranks of the Salvation Army, specially selected to represent their comrades, walked behind their promoted leader,” — William Booth
Application Points
- We can learn from William Booth's dedication to serving the poor and lost, and strive to make a similar impact in our own communities.
- The funeral procession highlights the importance of honoring and remembering those who have made significant contributions to our lives and our world.
- We can draw inspiration from the Salvation Army's global reach and influence, and seek to make a difference in the lives of others through our own service and ministry.