Operation Christmas Child is in full swing at City Church and we can’t be more excited! Our goal this year is 1000 boxes. Watch the progress each week to see how far along we are and don’t forget to grab a box!
Several weeks ago we had the privilege of hearing from Alina who received a shoebox as a child. Her “Shoebox Story” helped us connect personally and see the power of a simple gift. Alina said, “This box was an act of kindness that represented hope, comfort, and the fact that God is watching over me. My perception of God changed. He became a personal Father to me.”
Today, we’d like to introduce you to Azima!
"My siblings and I did not have an opportunity to go to church because my father was against that. In Cameroon, religious superstitions heavily influence people’s lives. My father was concerned that bad things would happen to our family if we went against the local traditional beliefs. After that, my sisters and I routinely snuck out of the house to attend church services. It was at that church that I received my shoebox gift. I hid the gift from my father, fearing that I would be punished for having it because I had gotten it at church. Nevertheless, I was thrilled to receive the gift. I had never received any gifts in my life, and I had never before seen many of the items, such as a teddy bear and a diary that had a little lock and key. I kept the handwritten note locked in my diary and looked at it often.
The same month I received my shoebox, one of my closest friends died of malaria. That night, I went through my shoebox over and over again, looking at the items and seeking comfort. Eventually, I fell asleep with the shoebox in my arms. That happened a lot. Two years after receiving my shoebox, I dedicated myself to teaching the children in my church how much Jesus loves them. That year I also saw my father come to know the Lord. It started when he caught my sisters and me secretly praying for his salvation."
THE POWER OF ONE SHOEBOX CAN REACH A WHOLE FAMILY!
God answers prayers. As you shop, as you pack, PRAY. Pray for the child receiving your gift. Pray the Lord will use it in the exact way that’s needed.
TIPS & REMINDERS:
• NO CANDY and NO TOOTHPASTE: Unfortunately, these two items are no longer allowed due to Custom policies.
• Remove any packaging. You’re not only making room for more gifts, but also reducing trash in foreign countries!
• Don’t Forget to include the $9 shipping cost per box. You have 2 options: Fill out the envelope (pay by check or cash) and place it in your box OR you can FOLLOW YOUR BOX! To do this you’ll need to pay online: www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/follow-your-box/ (then attach the label with tracking code to your box)
So, what’s your “shoebox story?”
Tell us your experience and/or send us a pic of your group or family packing boxes to sseaborn@citychurchpc.com
Thank you for your help in sharing the love of Jesus in a tangible way! #brokenpeoplelovingbrokenpeople
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