Operation Christmas Child

On Sunday, November 12th, the tables were filled with all sorts of goodies ready to be packed into shoeboxes to be sent to children throughout the world as part of Operation Christmas Child.

During the Sunday School hour, our kids began the process by helping to remove excess packaging from our soap, toothbrushes, scissors, etc. The Sunday School students also helped by filling out “letters” which will connect St. Mark’s to the kids who receive our shoeboxes.

After late church, the real fun began! Following a light lunch, our volunteers helped pack 36 boxes with all sorts of items including: tissues, soap, washclothes, toothbrushes, watches, school supplies, sunglasses, t-shirts, socks, toys…and more! While these boxes may seem to be filled more with “necessities” than with “presents”, please know how meaningful these gifts are to the children that receive them.

“The toothbrush meant a lot because before I had to share my toothbrush with 25 other girls.”
     –Yuri, Honduras

“One of my favorites in my shoebox was white socks because in the orphanage you get bad quality socks that always stink and have holes in them.”
     –Timur, Central Asia

“I was always late because I lacked a watch. Opening my shoebox gift, I found one. Now I am always on time for school.”
   –Niyonkuru, Burundi

Most importantly though, these shoeboxes bless children with joy, hope, and love. Their shoebox is the first gift many children have ever received! The treasures inside communicate that someone cares for them and gives them the opportunity to experience the love of God.

What a wonderful mission for the members of St. Marks’ to continue sharing with children throughout the world! Please pray that through God’s grace, our shoeboxes will bless each of the 36 children that receive them. We look forward to continuing this mission project with all of you in 2018!

If you would like more information on Operation Christmas Child, please visit Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse.org.