March 16, 2000
Name Address City, ST, Zip
Dear Names,
"Amazing grace! How sweet the sound..."
The words of this familiar hymn have echoed through churches all
across the globe for over 200years. Grace is sometimes defined as
undeserved favor. Have you ever stopped to consider how grace is given to
people?
I like to think of The Salvation Army as a place of grace --where
individuals and families find love and help in their time of need,
regardless of the situations that bring them to us!
...Men and women struggling with addictions find healing, forgiveness
and the chance to make a new start in life... families living from
paycheck to paycheck find comfort, food and emergency assistance... and
underprivileged children have the opportunity to eat well-balanced meals
and participate in special activities.
God's grace is found in His forgiveness and unconditional love. In
turn, we have the opportunity to extend that grace to others by meeting
their physical and spiritual needs with kindness and compassion.
Here at The Salvation Army, this is our continuous goal.
Maybe you can remember a time in your own life when you were shown
grace... when someone reached out to you with answers you couldn't find
yourself. Or perhaps a specific person comes to mind --such as a sister,
a grandfather or a daughter --whose life is characterized by grace.
When I think of grace, I am reminded of the many Salvation Army
officers and employees who selflessly dedicate their lives to the poor
and brokenhearted. In my years of working with The Salvation Army, I've
seen grace transform the lives of many people. Often, those who come to
us for help have exhausted all other resources. But the love, assistance
and guidance that we offer them hope for a better tomorrow.
I can think of no better time to continue extending grace to others
than at Easter. This special season reminds us that God's mercy is
available to each of us --regardless of who we are or what we we've
done.
In the same way, The Salvation Army offers grace and compassion to
those in need in our community --regardless of the difficulties they may
be facing. You've been so generous with your giving in the past, and we
are grateful. Your additional gift today will enable us to provide food
and clothing for physical needs... emergency assistance during times of
crisis... spiritual guidance and encouragement... and much more.
"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound..." These words ring true in the
hearts and lives of changed people here at The Salvation Army. And just
as the writer of this beautiful hymn celebrates God's grace, so do
we.
On behalf of all the men, women and children in Central Indiana who
will benefit from your kindness, thank you. May you experience God's
grace this Easter season and throughout the year.
Blessings,
Lt. Colonel DIVISIONAL COMMANDER
P.S. Please send your gift today. So many people need our assistance.
In appreciation of your generosity, I've enclosed a special bookmark
printed with John Newton's familiar hymn, "Amazing Grace."
