Church of God Congregations Partner with Operation Christmas Child
Many Church of God congregations around the world participate in Operation Christmas Child, a ministry which helps distribute shoe boxes of toys and materials to children around the globe.
“Jesus loved little children. They were perfect examples of how simple faith works in the Kingdom of God and how true greatness is gained through simple humility,” stated Carey Gregory, church relations director for Operation Christmas Child. “How easy it was for little children to run into the arms of Jesus! They not only understood who He was, but His arms were always open, always reaching out for them.”
“Jesus continues to draw children to Himself and He is working powerfully through the partnership of Church of God congregations and Operation Christmas Child to bring the message of hope and life in Christ to needy kids around the world – kids affected by war, poverty, famine, or natural disaster,” Gregory continued. “Children like Luis are learning about the Gospel through gift-filled shoe boxes lovingly packed and committed in prayer, and lives are being changed for eternity.”
“Perhaps your church has already begun efforts to incorporate Operation Christmas Child into outreach and missions opportunities this fall and we celebrate this opportunity to join in partnership with you! You may have already received your OCC “Resource Kit” which contains sample promotional materials, but if you have not already ordered materials you may need, please feel free to do so by visiting the Operation Christmas Child website at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Order_Materials/. ”
As always, materials are completely free. Participants can also use the website to explore ideas to implement OCC via the Project Leader’s Resource Page and even to order red and green decorative shoe boxes, called “GO” boxes (for “Gospel Opportunities”).
“Of course, nothing is more critical in all we do than prayer, and we invite you to sign up for the 2011 Call to Prayer during National Collection Week,” Gregory said.
“It remains a great joy and privilege to serve alongside thousands of Church of God churches as we join together to take the message of Jesus to children and families around the world.”
