Wilfred Kitching facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
General
Wilfred Kitching
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| 7th General of The Salvation Army | |
| In office 1 July 1954 – 23 November 1963 |
|
| Preceded by | Albert Orsborn |
| Succeeded by | Frederick Coutts |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 22 August 1893 London |
| Died | 15 December 1977 (aged 84) |
| Resting place | New Camberwell Cemetery |
Wilfred Kitching CBE (born August 22, 1893 – died December 15, 1977) was a British leader of The Salvation Army. He was the 7th General (worldwide leader) of The Salvation Army from 1954 to 1963.
Contents
Life Story of Wilfred Kitching
Wilfred Kitching was born in Wood Green, London, in 1893. His father, Theodore Kitching, was also a Salvation Army officer. Wilfred went to Friern Barnet Grammar School when he was younger.
Becoming a Salvation Army Officer
In 1914, at the age of 20, Wilfred became a Salvation Army Officer. This meant he dedicated his life to serving others through the organization. He spent over 30 years working in different roles across Britain.
Family and International Work
Wilfred Kitching married Kathleen Bristow in 1929. They worked together in their service. In 1946, he moved to Australia to serve as Chief Secretary for the Salvation Army there. Later, in 1948, he became the leader (Territorial Commander) in Sweden. By 1951, he was back in Britain, serving as the British Commissioner.
Leading The Salvation Army
In 1954, Wilfred Kitching was chosen by the High Council to be the General of The Salvation Army. This is the highest leadership position in the organization, overseeing its work around the world.
During his time as General, he wrote many songs that are still used in The Salvation Army's song book. He also received special honors for his work. In 1961, he received an honorary degree from Yonsei University in Korea. In 1964, he was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire), a high honor from the British government.
General Kitching also wrote two books. One was called Soldier of Salvation (published in 1963). The other was his autobiography, A Goodly Heritage (published in 1967), which told the story of his life.
General Wilfred Kitching retired from his leadership role on November 22, 1963. He passed away at the age of 84 in 1977. He is buried in New Camberwell Cemetery in London.
