Operation Christmas Child Thanks You!
THANK YOU to everyone who helped with Operation Christmas Child this year, especially to the faithful who worked so hard during National Collection Week. Our relay center collected 3,300 shoeboxes (315 from our LRBC family). That's down some from last year, but with the new relay center in Manassas, some of churches who used to bring boxes to us can now go there. We were blessed to have five "first timer" local churches join the OCC family this year. God continues to bless and grow this ministry.
My goal this year was to help the LRBC family see OCC as a vital part of our missions emphasis all year long. Yes, we collect shoeboxes one week out of the year, but if you look back at all the events held through the year we work on this ministry 365 days a year. I pray that you will catch the “OCC” spirit in 2012 and make it a part of your missions giving all year long. How? Put a container in the bottom of your closet and shop all year long. Look for on sale/mark down items. Take advantage of BOGO on toys and clothing. You get the idea!
Another way you can help is to give a designated donation to help send the shoeboxes on their way. When the children pack boxes at a “Wrap & Pack” or at Vacation Bible School, we send them without the $7 suggested donation for shipping. Simply designate your donation as “OCC” and the money will be used to help with shipping costs.
Thank you especially to the women who committed to travel to Charlotte, NC to work at the processing center December 1-2. It's a true labor of love and joy to see a warehouse full of fellow believers working for the Lord!
This year we sewed 39 "pillowcase" dresses. We're tracking them to see where they go. Those dresses were sewn and decorated with such love and excitement. I know the little girls who receive them (and their mothers) are going to be filled with joy. We also created sewing kits to send to the older girls. We've sent basic tools to older boys. If you're led to pack it in a shoebox, God already has the child selected and a purpose for it!
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