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The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters (IHQ) is throwing open its doors to the public on Saturday 22 September as part of Open House London. The free event, celebrating London’s architecture, offers access to more than 750 buildings in the city, allowing people to see areas that are usually closed to the public.
This will be the third time that IHQ has taken part in Open House London. If previous experience is a guide, hundreds of people will visit the building to learn about its architecture and also find out more about the Army’s worldwide ministry. Architects from Sheppard Robson who designed the building will be on hand to explain significant design aspects while Salvation Army staff will welcome people and assist with tours.
The Chief of the Staff (Commissioner Barry C. Swanson) will be in his office to speak to the tour groups that are shown around the building.
IHQ will be open from 10am to 5pm (last entry for tour at 4pm), with food available from Café 101 all day. The ‘Aim High’ exhibition, featuring Olympic and Paralympic-themed art produced by Salvation Army centres, and mountain bike sculpture created by staff and trainees from Hadleigh Salvation Army Farm will ensure there is plenty to look at! Music will be provided outside the front door by Croydon Citadel Young People’s Band and Singing Company.
One event that is unique to this year is the opportunity to meet Major Beverly Ivany, writer of The Salvation Army’s daily Bible reading series Words of Life, who is making a rare trip to IHQ. The January–April 2013 issue of Words of Life will be on sale for the first time at the event, and Major Ivany will be signing copies from 11am to 1pm and 3pm to 4pm. This will be the first issue published by IHQ’s Salvation Books imprint.
The first 40 people to buy the new book will receive a special gift. Other Salvation Books publications will also be sold, with special offers available only on the day!
For more information on Open House London 2012, go to: www.openhouselondon.org.uk
Report by the Communications Section
International Headquarters
