What is Operation Christmas Child?
Operation Christmas Child is one of the ministries of Samaritans’ Purse that we take part in each year. Shoe boxes are filled with toys, games, some clothing, and personal hygiene items (not toothpaste) and are shipped to children around the world. There will be about 10 million shoeboxes distributed this year!
Shares the Good News of Jesus Christ.
As shoebox gifts are distributed, local pastors or church leaders present the Gospel in a fun way designed for kids while family and friends listen in. Along with their shoebox gift, children also receive The Greatest Gift, a colorful presentation of the Gospel in their own language.
Blesses children with joy, hope, and love.
Their shoebox is the first gift many children have ever received! The treasures and personal letters inside communicate that someone cares for them and give them an opportunity to experience the love of God.
Gives a church an effective outreach tool.
Local churches use gift-filled shoeboxes as a tangible inroad for evangelism. The shoebox gifts allow them access to places they might never be welcomed otherwise.
Makes disciples through the local church.
After receiving shoebox gifts, boys and girls are invited to enroll in The Greatest Journey, our 12-lesson discipleship program. They learn from trained local volunteers what it means to faithfully follow Christ and share their faith with others.
Multiplies as children share their faith with friends and family.
Even before The Greatest Journey course is over, students begin witnessing to others. Then at graduation, the Gospel is shared with their friends and family again. The graduates also receive a New Testament to use personally and in communicating their faith to others.