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Giving the Gift of Christmas |
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Thursday, 20 November 2008 |
By James Pierce
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Christmas is always a special time for friends and family but not everyone is fortunate enough to join in the festivities. So, the Guymon Church of the Nazarene in association with Operation Christmas Child and Samaritan's Purse is asking for shoe box donations for children in need.
Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan's Purse said, "Operation Christmas Child is a great way to bring joy and the Good News of Jesus Christ to children in need of hope."
If interested in donating, please fill a standard size empty shoe box wrapped or unwrapped with a variety of gifts appropriate for either a girl or a boy for children ages 2-4, 5-9 or 10-14. Include with each shoe box a $7 or more donation to help cover shipping and project costs. If preparing more than one box please make one combined donation. Place a rubber band around each closed shoe box and drop it off at the collection center at the Church of the Nazarene during the National Collection Week Nov. 17-24.
Gift suggestions are school supplies, toys, hygiene items, hard candy double bagged, clothing, a personal letter may be enclosed in a separate envelope with a photograph and a return address if the child wishes to write back.
Please do not include used or damaged items, war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures, chocolate or food, out-dated candy, liquids or lotions, medications or vitamins, breakable items such as snow globes, glass containers or aerosol cans.
Most importantly, Operation Christmas Child also asks that those who wish to donate make a special prayer for the child who will receive the gift.
In addition to the gifts, Operation Christmas Child also provides a follow-up discipleship program where children can learn about the real meaning behind Christmas and the spirit of giving.
A brochure with a donation envelope as well the appropriate labels and guidelines can be picked up at the Church of the Nazarene 2214 N. Sunset Ln in Guymon. For more information call 580-651-SHOE or log onto www.samaritanspurse.org.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 23 November 2008 )
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