In a heartfelt opinion piece published on December 18, 2025, columnist Steve Murphy calls on Canadians to embrace the true spirit of the holiday season by celebrating Christmas and supporting the enduring work of the Salvation Army.
The Heart of the Holiday Season
Steve Murphy's column, titled "Murphy’s Logic: Celebrate Christmas and the Salvation Army this season," serves as a timely reminder of the core values of generosity and community. Published in the afternoon, the piece arrives as many are finalizing their holiday plans and considering their annual charitable giving. Murphy positions the Salvation Army's iconic Christmas Kettle campaign—symbolized by the image of a volunteer with a red kettle—as a cornerstone of seasonal goodwill.
The Salvation Army's Christmas initiatives are more than just a fundraising drive; they represent a critical lifeline for countless individuals and families across the country. Murphy highlights this work as an essential part of the nation's social fabric, especially during a time of year that can be particularly challenging for those in need.
A Legacy of Service and Compassion
While the column is an opinion piece, it is grounded in the tangible reality of the organization's efforts. The Salvation Army operates one of the largest and most recognizable charitable campaigns in Canada every December. Their kettles, staffed by volunteers, are a familiar sight outside retail stores, collecting donations that fund year-round programs.
These programs address a wide range of needs, including emergency shelter, hot meals, addiction recovery services, and support for families struggling with poverty. Murphy's argument is clear: supporting this mission is a direct and meaningful way to enact the Christmas spirit of giving and compassion.
An Enduring Symbol in a Busy News Landscape
Murphy's column was published amidst a wide array of other national and local news stories, from political shifts and economic warnings to severe weather events and sports updates. This context underscores the columnist's intent to draw public attention back to community and charitable causes during a bustling and often stressful time.
By choosing to focus on the Salvation Army, Murphy taps into a long-standing tradition of Canadian philanthropy. His logic is straightforward: celebrating the joy and warmth of Christmas is intrinsically linked to supporting those who work tirelessly to provide hope and practical aid to the most vulnerable.
In essence, Steve Murphy's message is a call to action. He encourages readers to not only enjoy their own holiday festivities but to also ensure the season is brighter for others by contributing to the Salvation Army's campaign. It is a reminder that the jingle of bells at a Christmas kettle is a sound that fuels essential community service throughout the entire year.
