Ringing in help for those in need

I was a first-time bell-ringer with my family for the Salvation Army this past weekend. The majority of shoppers put in a dollar bill or some change, and we responded with a smile and a "thank you" and "Merry Christmas." Everyone cheerfully responded in kind. One woman even came back outside with some hot chocolate for us from Caribou Coffee. It was a fun and easy way to support a great faith-based service organization in the spirit of the season.

The Salvation Army serves nearly six million persons during the holiday season alone. From The Salvation Army web site:

Motivated by the love of God, as a leader in Christian faith-based human services, The Salvation Army is committed to serve the whole person, body, soul and spirit, with integrity and respect, using creative solutions to positively transform lives.

Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

By the way, the Salvation Army still needs volunteer bell-ringers. Visit the Salvation Army web site to sign up.

CHARITY