author
Catherine Mumford Booth
1829–1890
A powerful preacher and social reformer, she helped shape the Salvation Army from its earliest days and became known as the movement’s "Mother." Her writing and public speaking pushed against the idea that women should stay silent in church, giving her work a lasting influence far beyond the Victorian era.
1 Audiobook
Godliness : being reports of a series of addresses delivered at James's Hall, London, W. during 1881
by Catherine Mumford Booth
About the author
Born Catherine Mumford in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, on January 17, 1829, she grew up in a deeply religious Methodist family and was largely educated at home. Chronic illness marked much of her early life, but it also gave her time to read widely and think deeply about faith, justice, and the role of women in the church.
After marrying William Booth in 1855, she became his partner not only in family life but also in ministry. Catherine Booth emerged as a gifted preacher and writer in her own right, arguing publicly that women should be allowed to preach and taking an active role in evangelical work among poor and working-class communities. In 1865, she and William Booth co-founded the movement that became the Salvation Army.
She was widely admired for her conviction, intelligence, and compassion, especially in campaigns against poverty and the exploitation of vulnerable people. After her death in Clacton-on-Sea on October 4, 1890, she was remembered as one of the central forces behind the Salvation Army’s mission and identity.