Children and young people

A group of young people smile at the camera
Celebrations for the International Day of Children and Young People in The Philippines

We imagine a world in which children and young people fully experience life, feeling loved and valued by their families and communities, and are empowered to make meaningful contributions.

We believe

that children and young people are:

  • made in the image of God and are a gift from God.
  • intricately made and should be treasured. This means we should value them.
  • also dependent yet developing. This means they need our guidance, care and protection.
  • natural models of faith and called by God to join his mission of redemption and reconciliation. This means we should give space to them to participate, co-create and co-lead in serving God and others with their unique set of gifts, talents and skills.

Latest news

Young people raise their hands in worship
Children and young people

EYE 2025: Young people across Europe dare to look up

Young Salvationists invited to look up and see God moving across Europe and their lives.

The international leaders sit around a coffee table with young Salvation Army members
Children and young people
The General

Salvation Army young leaders speak into Compass

Representative Salvation Army young people from around the world convened at Sunbury Court, United Kingdom, from 27 June to 3 July 2025 for the mov

International Children and Young People Advisory Group

Made up of 40 young people from countries all around the world, the advisory group regularly meets online to discuss the issues that matter to them.

The group also takes part in surveys to share their ideas, concerns and recommendations with the wider Salvation Army. 

Members of ICYAG pose for a photo with the international leaders

Youth and Children's Section at International Headquarters

The Youth and Children’s Section at International Headquarters (IHQ) supports and strengthens The Salvation Army around the world in its work among children and young people through:

  • identifying and sharing good practices, like discipleship programmes, around the world
  • sharing and creating resources, such as children's programmes and our Faith Talks card game
  • connecting youth secretaries, for example by creating zonal meetings with youth leaders
  • giving young people a voice through the International Children and Young People Advisory Group
  • supporting territories in increasing youth participation.