Trailblazer of Faith: Eliza Shirley
At just 16 years old, Eliza Shirley made a profound decision that would shape her life and the future of The Salvation Army in the United States. Surrendering to the call of God on her life, Eliza dedicated herself to the mission of The Salvation Army in her home country of England. But little did she know, this decision would lead her on a remarkable journey across the Atlantic, where she would face an exhausting schedule filled with long hours and constant opposition to the cause of Christ.
When Eliza’s father was offered a job transfer to Philadelphia, Eliza saw an opportunity to expand the mission of The Salvation Army beyond England’s shores. Determined to make a difference in this new endeavor, she sought counsel from General William Booth, founder of The Salvation Army. Anxious to receive the older Booth’s blessing, Eliza found his advice less than receptive. Booth warned her that the people of America might not readily embrace the new mission, and he discouraged her from pursuing it. However, Eliza’s resolve was unshaken. She knew that this was the path God had laid before her.
The concerns of General Booth proved right. As the ministry began in the slums of Philadelphia, the Shirley family encountered fervent hostility from the local community. Crowds rejected their message, reviling the new “do-gooders.” Many of the residents jeered and spit on them as they walked by, throwing mud or rocks whenever they attempted to preach. The Shirleys’ mission became an object of constant scorn, and their initial services drew few attendees. While much of the opposition remained verbal, it quickly moved to violent when just a month into their ministry, the small storefront where they had gathered for worship was set on fire by an angry mob.
As the flames ravaged the building, a crowd gathered to witness the spectacle. Amidst the smoke and chaos, Eliza stood before the onlookers and began to sing and preach. Her voice ringing out over the crackle of the fire, her words of hope and faith drew even more curious spectators. Her words were so moving and passionate that many in the crowd made professions of faith and joined the cause. A new building was soon acquired, and before long, the mission began to flourish. In the pursuing months, Eliza called on General Booth to provide further support and resources for the growing ministry.
At just 18 years old, Eliza’s tireless dedication to the work soon took a toll on her health, and by 1881, she became gravely ill. Eliza returned to England to recuperate, but her desire to continue supporting the mission never ceased. While recovering, she spoke across Britain in thousands of services and meetings, raising funds and awareness to support the ongoing work in the United States.
Eventually, Eliza Shirley did return to continue the work. After marrying in England, she and her husband resettled back in the US, where she was instrumental in the establishment of several additional Salvation Army centers throughout the country. Through her resilience, she not only helped establish The Salvation Army’s presence in America, but she also demonstrated the profound impact that one individual’s faith can have in transforming the lives of others. Her enduring commitment to the mission of The Salvation Army continues to inspire generations of believers to step forward and serve, just as she did.