ALTUS -- The sight of Salvation Army bell ringers outside stores and "Angel Trees" inside is a familiar part of the Christmas season, but the organization and gospel of the Salvation Army may not be as familiar to many Southwest Oklahomans.

Captains Luke and Annette Parker oversee a chapter that aids families throughout Jackson and Greer counties.

Every year, the organization sponsors the "Angel Trees" that were developed to help underprivileged children have a happier Christmas as well as provide necessities.

In October, residents began applying for their children to be "angels" on the special trees. The Christmas trees are placed at Wal-Mart, Atwoods and J.C. Penney, adorned with angel cards stating the children's first names age, clothes sizes and one Christmas toy wish. Patrons pick an angel from the tree and buy presents for the child. The cards also contain instructions about dropping off the presents at the church office.

The Salvation Army is a unique Christian denomination, closely related to the Methodist Church. It was founded in London, England in 1852 by William Booth and wife, Catherine.

The "Soldiers of Christ" strive to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to the poor, homeless, hungry and destitute across the globe.

In 1867, the evangelism had grown and Booth became the general superintendent. Thus, their evangelists began calling him "general." This explains the the military organization of the organization. Converts and ministers of the church are now called "Salvationists."

Annette was raised a Salvationist and is a fourth-generation minister. She and husband, Luke, attended a two-year seminary in Atlanta and were both ordained in 2002. They and their three children -- Mykala, 10, Braxton, 5, and Ethanael, 1, -- have been stationed in Altus since January of this year.

"The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church," she said. "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."

The Salvation Army has other programs throughout the holiday season to help our area's needy, also.

They provided a Thanksgiving dinner to less fortunate citizens on Thursday, and Parker reported a tremendous turnout. Many volunteers donated their time to help those in need to have a wonderful dinner and give thanks on this special occasion.

There is a food drive being held by the church to help deliver food boxes this holiday season. Local schools are participating by holding contests to see who can collect the most non-perishable items.

The most familiar Salvation Army program are the bell ringers stationed outside stores throughout the area during the season. All proceeds given are used to help the needy in the area.

Church services are held twice a week at the Salvation Army located on West Broadway. Sunday School begins at 9:45 a.m., with a worship service held at 11 a.m. The youth program is held each Wednesday at 4:30 p.m., followed by a Bible study for everyone at 6 p.m.

For more information about the Salvation Army, or to make donations, contact the church office at 482-8577.