Operation Christmas Child is a global outreach initiative organized by Samaritan’s Purse that provides Christmas gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need around the world. These boxes are filled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items, along with a message of God’s love and the opportunity to hear about the Gospel. The goal is to bring joy and hope to children who may not otherwise receive anything for Christmas, while also sharing the love of Christ in a tangible way.
Our local church participates in this meaningful mission by organizing an annual collection drive, encouraging families and individuals to fill shoeboxes, and helping to prepare and send these gifts to children in need. Before we ship them off, our members gather together to assemble the boxes, pray over them, and make sure each one is ready to be sent. It’s a wonderful opportunity for our congregation to be involved in a global outreach while showing God’s love to children around the world.