It’s that time of year! I know that for many people it’s a little early to be thinking about Christmas. I myself get annoyed when I come into stores and there’s Christmas music playing when Thanksgiving hasn’t happened yet. However, when it comes to Operation Christmas Child I understand the need to talk about Christmas early and the amazing impact of a shoebox. People pack shoebox gifts each year to bless children in need around the world. Churches and groups collect these boxes in the third week of November. Then, thousands of volunteers inspect and prepare the shoeboxes for international shipping. Long before shoeboxes arrive in more than 100 countries, volunteer National Leadership Teams train pastors and community leaders who are eager to share the Gospel and bless children. Churches around the world hand out shoebox gifts at festive outreach events where the Good News is clearly presented. Along with the gifts, Samaritan’s Purse offers Gospel booklets called The Greatest Gift to help shoebox recipients learn about God’s Greatest Gift, His Son, Jesus Christ. After receiving a shoebox gift, children have the opportunity to enroll in their 12-lesson follow-up discipleship program, The Greatest Journey. As a result of what they learn, boys and girls grow in Christ and share Him with others. Families are reached, churches grow, new churches are started, and communities are transformed. By now I’m sure you’re wondering where can I pack a shoebox or where can I give my packed shoebox? Good news is you can do both at Crosspoint Church in Whitesboro, NY. Crosspoint Church is hosting a packing party on November 14th at 9:30 am. Collection Week is from November 16th-23rd. Thank you! 

-Darby Hodgeman Central Drop-off Leader