Ringing for Community and His Glory
The sharp wind swept through the small Pennsylvania town of Boyertown, rattling the bell in Kimmy Thomas’s hand as she stood by Walmart's entrance. Her gloved fingers tightened around the handle, her warm smile cutting through the crisp cold as people came and went. It is her fifth-year volunteering as a bell ringer for The Salvation Army, and each year, she finds herself more convinced of the importance of its work and the best way for her to serve Christ.
Thomas’s journey to The Salvation Army and Boyertown did not start immediately when she moved from the mountains of Illinois to Pennsylvania in 1999 to be closer to family. And it wasn’t even in 2018 that she arrived in Boyertown and she and her sister moved in together. Then, in 2021, she and her sister found out The Salvation Army Boyertown Corps had a local chapel and things began to change. She always respected and admired The Salvation Army’s mission and efforts, so when the opportunity came to be part of their chapel and community, she jumped in with both feet.
“I was looking for a church for my sister and me to attend,” Thomas said. “Once I found out The Salvation Army opened up a church, I attended immediately.”
Her sister only attended church with her one time before she stopped attending. But that did not stop Thomas, as this church changed everything for her. What began as a place to worship soon became her community, and she was motivated to serve her community in Boyertown through The Salvation Army.
“Even after my sister dropped out, I continued to go,” said Thomas. “From there, I started growing spiritually in the church. I was getting my religious fulfillment, but I wanted to act on that spirituality in the community.”
Volunteering wasn’t just a way to give back; it was an expression of her faith.
One of Thomas’ proudest moments was becoming a Salvation Army soldier in 2022. She felt a greater sense of purpose as it became clear that this was something bigger than herself and even The Salvation Army.
“When I officially became a soldier, I felt like I belonged, which was important to me,” said Thomas. “I did not treat it like I was just a Salvation Army soldier; I treated it like I was a soldier in the army of God.”
Since joining The Salvation Army, Thomas has dedicated her time in different ways, like helping with holiday dinners and praying with people, but her favorite activity is bellringing. She sees it as an opportunity to reflect Christ’s light to everyone who passes by. It’s not just about the donations; it’s about the chance to let them feel the love of God, even if just for a brief moment.
“It doesn’t matter who they are,” Thomas said. “I say hello, smile at them, and give them Jesus. Their faces light up when people see me saying hello and giving them a piece of myself. And I think I’ve been able to get donations for the kettles because of that. Getting donations and giving Jesus are my main goals.”
Thomas intends to do this every year until she is physically unable to do it anymore. While she has no plans to slow down, she encourages others to step up and join her in bellringing and support their community.
“I think that it's essential for you to give up your time and give yourself a chance to be a part of The Salvation Army,” Thomas said. “Give yourself, time, and a piece of Jesus to those who need and have a need in your community. Bellringing is not a job; it is fun.”
As we start the New Year, we're asking for your help to support The Salvation Army's vital work in our community. The Red Kettle Campaign, dating back to 1891, is powered by the dedicated volunteer bell ringers who collect donations to help our neighbors year-round.
Last year, the Red Kettle Campaign raised $3,294,995.23, which provided 7,569,988 meals, housed 307,361 individuals, and distributed 181,512 toys to children during the holiday season. We’re counting on your help to make this year's campaign better than the last. Visit our Virtual Red Kettle online, or text KETTLE to 31333.