The Soldiers & Airmens Scripture Readers Association

General information

Our Work commenced informally in 1818 amongst troops in the Woolwich Garrison. It expanded to such an extent that in 1838 concerned Christian Officers formed the Soldiers' Friends Society and The Army Scripture Readers; the then Chaplain General placed it on a more formal footing by issuing a Charter in 1854. Nowadays we have a Charter covering our work with the Army and a Charter governing our work with the Royal Air Force.

In 1887 The Soldiers’ Christian Association was formed, becoming The Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Christian Association when the Royal Air force was formed.

In 1938 the Army Scripture Readers and SACA amalgamated and in 1952 the name, The Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association was adopted. Usually known by the acronym, SASRA.

OUR MINISTRY

Our Ministry is one of personal evangelism. Uniquely we are permitted, subject to Chaplain's recommendation and Commanding Officers' permission to visit soldiers and airmen in their accommodation, work and recreation areas. This is done with a view to befriending them and introducing them to the Lord Jesus Christ.

OUR ASR'S

All Scripture Readers have served in one or other of the Armed Services. They are all committed Christians and gifted evangelists. They have undergone a period of training and assessment before being deployed to a station with the agreement of the Ministry of Defence.

THE ORGANISATION

The Association works by Grace, the Grace of God and the Grace of the Army and RAF Authorities who give permission for Scripture Readers to visit MoD Establishments.

The Association is governed by a Council of serving and retired officers of the two services and Representatives of the Chaplain General and the Chaplain in Chief RAF. Under God they give direction to the ministry of the Association.

Day to day management is provided by a small Headquarters Team. The General Secretary is the Councils’ CEO. Responsible to him are; the Members’ Secretary who continues the work of the old SACA; Finance Secretary, responsible for all financial matters; the Administrator, responsible for non-financial matters. The Prayer Secretary,responsible for the compilation, production and distribution of the monthly Prayer Letter, also acts as Personal Assistant to the General Secretary.