The spirit of giving and kindness was alive and well in the community of Gorleston last Christmas, thanks to the efforts of St Mary’s Catholic Church and the local primary school. They partnered with Operation Christmas Child, a program run by Samaritan’s Purse, to send shoeboxes filled with gifts to children and young people around the world. This initiative was made possible by the dedication of Mark and Debra Watkins, members of the Church and Community Relations team, who worked tirelessly to support the church, school, and community in their mission to collect and send these special boxes. As Mark and Debra attended Mass on March 9, they brought with them a message of affirmation and gratitude, thanking the church for their participation in the program and sharing stories of the impact it had on children globally.
The journey of St Mary’s Catholic Church and the local primary school, St Mary and St Peter Primary School, in participating in Operation Christmas Child was a heartwarming one. It all began when the church and school came together to learn about the program and its mission to bring joy and love to children in need. The response was overwhelming, with both the church and school quickly embracing the idea and working together to fill shoeboxes with gifts. The enthusiasm and dedication of the parishioners, students, and teachers were palpable, and Mark and Debra were delighted to see the community come together to make a difference in the lives of others. As Mark noted, “It was a joy to see how the church and the faith group took so quickly to seeing the vision of sending love to children across the world, in the name of the Gospel.” The involvement of the church and school was not only a success but also a testament to the power of community and the impact that can be made when people come together to make a difference.
The numbers are staggering – last year, the UK sent an impressive 241,015 shoeboxes to children in need, while the global total reached an astonishing 11.9 million shoeboxes. These numbers represent more than just statistics; they represent the lives of children and families who were touched by the kindness and generosity of strangers. For many of these children, receiving a shoebox filled with gifts was a reminder that they are not forgotten, that they are loved and valued. As Fr Alvan from St Peters noted, “It was a great blessing for the Parish to be involved in filling the shoe boxes last year… It was also lovely having Mark and Debbie around and I can see that my parishioners always enjoyed seeing them and having fellowship with them.” The experience was not only rewarding for the recipients but also for those who participated in the program, fostering a sense of community and connection among the parishioners and students.
The involvement of St Mary and St Peter Primary School was particularly significant, as it not only taught the students about the importance of giving and compassion but also provided them with a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. By participating in Operation Christmas Child, the students learned valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, and the value of helping others. The experience also brought the school and church communities closer together, as they worked collectively towards a common goal. As Mark and Debra reflected on their experience, they expressed their gratitude to the church and school for their enthusiasm and dedication, noting that it was a pleasure to work with such a passionate and committed group of individuals.
For those interested in learning more about Operation Christmas Child and how to get involved, Mark and Debra Watkins are the perfect point of contact. With their extensive experience and knowledge of the program, they are well-equipped to provide guidance and support to churches, schools, groups, and businesses looking to participate. By contacting them at [email protected] or visiting the Samaritan’s Purse website at www.samaritans-purse.org.uk, individuals can learn more about the program and how to make a difference in the lives of children around the world. As Fr Alvan noted, “We are looking forward to getting more involved in this great ministry and bringing hope to God’s children all over the world.” The opportunity to make a positive impact on the world is available to everyone, and by participating in Operation Christmas Child, individuals can be part of a global movement that is bringing joy, love, and hope to children in need.
In conclusion, the story of St Mary’s Catholic Church and the local primary school’s participation in Operation Christmas Child is a heartwarming reminder of the power of kindness, compassion, and community. Through their efforts, they were able to make a tangible difference in the lives of children around the world, bringing joy, love, and hope to those who need it most. As we reflect on the impact of this program, we are reminded that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the world. By working together and supporting initiatives like Operation Christmas Child, we can create a ripple effect of kindness that extends far beyond our local communities, touching the lives of children and families globally. As we look to the future, it is clear that the partnership between St Mary’s Catholic Church, the local primary school, and Operation Christmas Child will continue to bring hope and joy to children around the world, inspiring a new generation of leaders and change-makers to make a positive impact on the world.
