http://awordfromthewarriors2.blogspot.com/ A Word from the Warriors: Sharing the Joy

Monday, December 3, 2007

Sharing the Joy


Here at Worthington Christian, we have so many possessions and opportunities. For the most part we always have access to food, water, clothing and shelter. It’s a true blessing that we even have the opportunity to go to school, on top of that a Christian school. Thousands of kids across the world would give anything to attend a school. They desire to learn about the things we take for granted every day.

All students at W.C. the holiday time. Senior Courtney Beyer described her favorite holiday joy,” I really enjoy the festive atmosphere, the time with family and friends, and, of course, all the delicious holiday food. ” Students at W.C. enjoy the cheery atmosphere and the warmth of the indoors. Unfortunately the holidays are just like any other day for millions of kids across the world. The day goes by with hunger pains and the usual daily work load. Operations like Samaritan’s Purse developed Operation Christmas Child which was formed to “bring joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God's love” (http://www.samaritanspurse.org/OCC.asp?MPGID=1).
Senior Luke Montgomery has participated in the Operation Christmas Child program since first grade. He declares that “It makes me realize how much I take for granted compared to people in third world countries that have next to nothing.” Our school’s Ministry Team has arranged for the student body at W.C. to be able to participate in Operation Christmas Child. They encourage students to share some of their time, money and holiday joy with kids who don’t experience the warmth of the holidays.
The process of making a shoe box gift for a child is simple. Start with an empty shoe box and wrap the lid and box separately. Then determine whether your gift is for a boy or girl, and the child's age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Go next to the local dollar store and fill the box with items that will bring the child delight. Recommended items are: hard candy, brushes, fun hair accessories, and gum: be sure to check out the posters around the school to see other gift ideas. Make sure to stay away from war toys and candy that can melt. Next, include seven dollars in each box you make, this helps with shipping fees. Lastly, bring your box or boxes to the high school office and give them to Mrs. Dunn.
Senior Tiffany Helmuth describes to us her previous Operation Christmas Child experience: “Every Christmas, my church organizes an Operation Christmas Child box collection. As a youth group, we get together and make a few gift boxes. I really believe that it’s a good experience to provide a little bit of Christmas cheer for people who don’t have the means. Its definitely a humbling experience for me, and is a great way to bring the youth group together”. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to contact Lisa Scott or Amy McClure, leaders in the Ministry Team. They will be more than happy to help you out.