By Laura BennettFriday 18 Oct 2013Hope NightsSocial JusticeReading Time: 1 minute
Often people ask “what comes next?” when support is offered to a country, or aid is given to a family – is there follow up, or are the recipients abandoned? One of the most exciting things about Operation Christmas Child is that it’s just the beginning for the children and communities that are involved.
After hearing the gospel message during the shoebox distributions, children have the option to take part in ‘The Greatest Journey’ – a 12-lesson discipleship program that introduces them to salvation through Christ, and develops their faith with practical training.
Printed in their local language, materials are provided to students and teachers with colourful illustrations of key Bible stories, and teaching-aids to adapt the lessons to individual contexts.
One of the most exciting things about the classes is that they are all run by the local church and school communities.
Samaritans Purse may provide the resources, but it is the pastors and leaders of the effected village that take ownership of the process. In turn this sees them build a healthy sense of personal pride, and they become the point of reference for the improved social setting the course elicits.
Check stories of those impacted by the course
How can I be involved?
Volunteer with Operation Christmas Child