Operation Christmas Child
What is Operation Christmas Child?
Operation Christmas Child (OCC) brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoeboxes and the Good News of God's love. This program of Samaritan's Purse provides an opportunity for people of all ages to be involved in a simple, hands—on missions project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas—Jesus Christ. Shoe boxes are packed with toys, candy, personal hygiene items, and small articles of clothing such as gloves, scarves, hats and socks and then sent to Samaritan’s Purse who will ship them to needy boys and girls all around the world. Also included in each box is the Gospel of Jesus Christ in their own language, and they are also offered a discipleship course called "The Greatest Journey" where the children learn more about what it means to be a Christian. Many children come to know the Lord through this program.
What does this mean to Hope Community Church?
Operation Christmas Child has become a very important ministry for Hope Community Church. Many families use this as a teaching tool for their children to teach them the value of giving and caring for the needy. Each year we collect over 100 boxes to be sent to children all over the world.
When does this take place and what happens?
Our 2012 five-week campaign starts on Sunday, October 28 with a short DVD Ministry Report from Samaritan’s Purse shown during our worship time and ends with dedicating the boxes to the Lord on November 18. Material will be available at the OCC table in the lobby along with boxes and some miscellaneous items donated by others to supplement your own boxes. We invite everyone to come and join us for an exciting five week adventure!
Rhonda Garns is the Project Leader for Operation Christmas Child supporting HOPE and individuals to help with a successful shoe box collection. Rhonda would be delighted to help with your shoeboxes or answer any questions. Rhonda can be contacted @ (717) 371-6279 or e-mail: LuvGod2Day@comcast.net.
Where can I get materials?
Materials will be available on Sunday mornings from October 28 through November 18 at the OCC table in the lobby of the church and in the church office Tuesday through Friday. Your filled boxes can also be dropped off at the church Sunday mornings, at the church office or mailed directly to:
Samaritan’s Purse
Operation Christmas Child
801 Bamboo Road
P.O. Box 3000
Boone, NC28607
Samaritan’s Purse asks for a donation of $7 per box to help with the shipping costs. For more information on the ministry of Operation Christmas Child and how to pack a shoebox, click on the link below.
