Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child
Samaritan's Purse is a Christian relief and evangelism organization led by Franklin Graham.
The Mission of Operation Christmas Child is to demonstrate God's love in a
tangible way to needy children around the world and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Last year the organization received donations of 8.2 million shoeboxes filled
with special treats for children around the world. (Yes, boxes are sent to Burundi!).
Throughout the month of December, Our Saviour members and friends opened their
hearts to those less fortunate than themselves.
Operation Christmas Child saw a team of eight travel to Charlotte for two days
to help process shoe boxes filled with toys and clothes for children all round
the world. Included in the approximately 2 million which would be processed
through the Charlotte center were thirty boxes from Our Saviour.
The operation was wonderfully organized and the team was soon at work sorting,
wrapping, taping and packing in large cartons for shipping to the final destination.
Most of the boxes being processed while they were there were heading to
The Dominican Republic.
It was anticipated that a total of between 8.5 and 9 million shoe boxes would
be sent out through the five centers during a six week period.
Over 130 countries have received shoe boxes since 1993.
An unexpected bonus to the trip was the opportunity to visit
the Billy Graham Library which was close by. The team saw films and mementos
of his unparalleled ministry and a chance meeting with Franklin Graham was a
special highlight.
This was a meaningful short-term mission trip which it is hoped to expand in 2011.