Snapshot

Lieutenant Clifford Douglas, a Salvation Army officer and pastor, rings the bell at Christmastime in New York City.

Bell ringers typically share heartwarming reflections when asked about their service on those frequently cold December days. One said, “Some people give us donations, others stop to chat, and some even stay and sing awhile with us.” Another bell ringer smiled and said, “When my husband was in the middle of singing ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ a man offered him $5 not to sing!”

In addition to caroling and bell ringing in front of department stores, many Salvationists, employees, and church volunteers distribute carefully wrapped gifts for children, donated by manufacturers and individuals. 

Women’s groups also help make Christmas memorable for families in unfortunate circumstances. Many women, who may be single heads of families, struggle during these times. 

For some individuals in crisis, even more help is available. A bell ringer said, “We also can provide a warm place, especially now in the winter, for them to relax. In some instances, we provide shelter for them for a certain period.”

Christmas parties at church can transform the way some people celebrate Christmas at home. They realize that the most important gifts they can give to their families are themselves. 

Another bell ringer said, “When I hear that they’ve celebrated the warmth and joy of being a family together, I know they’ve received the greatest gift of all.”