The power of kindness and generosity was on full display at the recent Samaritan’s Purse national conference, where Norfolk representatives Mark and Debra Watkins had the opportunity to hear firsthand from individuals who had received a shoebox gift as children and are now living in the UK. The conference, which celebrated the global impact of Operation Christmas Child (OCC), a project run by the Samaritan’s Purse charity, was a testament to the enduring power of love and compassion. For those who may not be familiar, OCC is a remarkable initiative that encourages churches, businesses, and individuals to pack shoeboxes full of toys, toiletries, and gifts to be sent to disadvantaged children abroad. The theme of the conference, “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” from John 1:5, set the tone for a weekend of worship, thanksgiving, and celebration.
As Mark and Debra Watkins attended the conference, they were struck by the sheer magnitude of the impact that OCC has had on children and families around the world. The conference commenced on Friday evening with worship, led by staff based at the ministry centre, and was followed by a series of presentations and testimonies that highlighted the incredible work of OCC. Debra reflected on their experience volunteering with OCC, saying, “We commence and end with prayer and thanksgiving to God.” The delegates had the opportunity to hear from members of staff from the UK, Northern Ireland, America, and a special guest speaker, Anna Ferfecka-Telenga, regional manager for the Baltics, Balkans, and Central Europe. Anna’s heartfelt thanks to the UK for sending shoeboxes in God’s love was a poignant reminder of the tangible difference that these gifts have made in the lives of countless children. As Anna shared her experiences, it was clear that she is passionate about this ministry and has witnessed the profound impact that God’s love has on children and young people through the simple yet powerful gift of a shoebox.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the conference was the opportunity to hear from child recipients of a shoebox who are now grown up and living in the UK, known as “full circle stories.” Mark and Debra were deeply moved by the testimonies of these individuals, who shared how a simple shoebox sent in love had been so impactful on their lives. These stories were a testament to the enduring power of kindness and generosity, as many of these individuals are now serving others, paying forward the blessing they received as children. Mark said, “We were so fortunate to have the opportunity to hear the testimony of these people and how a simple shoebox sent in love has been so impactful on their lives, so much so, they now serve, so that others also have this blessing.” As they listened to these stories, Mark and Debra were reminded of the profound impact that OCC has had on individuals and communities around the world.
The conference was a celebration of the many blessings that have been witnessed through OCC, and it was also an opportunity to give thanks to God for the many volunteers and partners who are involved in this ministry. As Mark and Debra reflected on their experience, they were grateful for the opportunity to be part of this global movement, which is bringing hope and joy to children and families in need. They were also reminded of the importance of prayer and thanksgiving in this ministry, as they commence and end each day with prayer, seeking God’s guidance and blessing on their work. For those who are interested in learning more about Operation Christmas Child, or who would like to get involved in volunteering, Mark and Debra encourage them to contact them at [email protected]. They also invite people to visit the Samaritan’s Purse website at www.samaritans-purse.org.uk to learn more about this incredible ministry.
As the conference came to a close, Mark and Debra were left with a sense of awe and wonder at the incredible impact that OCC has had on individuals and communities around the world. They were reminded of the power of kindness and generosity, and the enduring difference that a simple shoebox can make in the life of a child. As they returned to Norfolk, they were filled with a sense of gratitude and thanksgiving, knowing that they are part of a global movement that is bringing hope and joy to children and families in need. They were also inspired by the testimonies of the child recipients of a shoebox, who are now grown up and living in the UK, and who are paying forward the blessing they received as children. These stories were a testament to the enduring power of love and compassion, and a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can have a profound impact on the life of another person.
In conclusion, the Samaritan’s Purse national conference was a celebration of the incredible impact that Operation Christmas Child has had on individuals and communities around the world. Through the simple yet powerful gift of a shoebox, OCC has brought hope and joy to countless children and families in need. As Mark and Debra Watkins reflected on their experience, they were reminded of the importance of kindness, generosity, and compassion, and the enduring difference that these values can make in the life of another person. They were also inspired by the testimonies of the child recipients of a shoebox, who are now grown up and living in the UK, and who are paying forward the blessing they received as children. As they look to the future, Mark and Debra are excited to continue their work with OCC, and to be part of a global movement that is bringing hope and joy to children and families in need. They invite others to join them on this journey, and to be part of this incredible ministry, which is making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals around the world.
