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A Salvation Army corps is local church organization and physical place of worship in The Salvation Army. Like the Christian term "church" a corps includes both the physical building and the body of members who attend at the building. In keeping with Salvationist convention in using military terminology, corps are sometimes casually known as barracks. Traditionally many corps buildings are alternatively called temples or citadels, such as Openshaw Citadel . The Salvation Army also uses the more traditional term "church" for some local congragations and their buildings.
Corps are usually led by an officer or married officer couple, who fulfil the role of a Pastor in other denominations. Officers in these positions are known as "Corps Officers" or CO's, and are generally Lieutenants, Captains or Majors. Terms for Officers vary in each country and often serve a term from as little as six months to 10 years. Appointments are decided on by the countries Territorial or Regional Headquarters with much prayer and planning.
Worship is very important in the local corps and brings encouragement, teaching and spiritual guidance to the attenders. Everyone is welcome to the local Salvation Army corps worship service - it is not exclusive to soldiers only, although preference is given to those in uniform with respect to participating in the service. All worship services are open to anyone who is searching for truth about Jesus Christ.