Last month’s newsletter article promised BIG changes, and now the Missions Committee is ready to announce what those changes are.
For this year’s Operation Christmas Child (OCC) project, the Missions Committee will be sponsoring a “packing party”. Everybody likes a party, right? Participants will each be asked to bring one large fun toy, some smaller fun toys, school supplies, and hygiene items. Shoeboxes will be provided at the party, as well as a variety of fun filler items for participants to select for their shoeboxes. These filler items will ensure each box is packed to the brim. We want each child receiving a shoebox to be overwhelmed with the abundance of God’s love, so let’s take advantage of every bit of space in the shoebox!
Why have a packing party? There are three BIG reasons:
1. A packing party creates an outreach event for family and friends. Please consider inviting someone to the church. This is a fun and friendly way to introduce new people to the work of FCCH.
2. This party will create an opportunity for the congregation to serve together. Serving together is yet another aspect of worshipping.
3. A packing party can better ensure that each OCC box is packed at the highest quality. At the party, items from the “Do Not Send” list can be identified and substituted. These shoeboxes are a ministry opportunity and we want them to represent our personal and collective best.
When is this party happening? The 2026 OCC Packing Party will be held Saturday, November 14, at 10am in the Fellowship Hall. For those who cannot make a Saturday event, the packing party will be repeated on Sunday, November 15, during Coffee Hour. If you have questions about the event, please see Cheri Wicks on Sundays during Coffee Hour.
In the meantime before the packing party, continue taking advantage of summer clearance sales at your local shopping centers for items to go in your boxes. Shopping lists with gift suggestions for boys and girls have been included in the weekly bulletins.
Additionally, the next Hands-On Missions group will meet September 17 starting at 10am in the Fellowship Hall. Please join us! We will assemble arts and crafts kits for the OCC shoeboxes. These kits will be available as filler items for the packing party. All materials are provided. No experience required! The purpose of this group is to enjoy fellowship and serve the Lord together.
Respectfully submitted,
Cheri Wicks
Missions Committee Member
