Dear SUMC family,
We are sincerely praying that some of the joy swirling in the Simpson Room for our Operation Christmas Child packing party geysers from every shoe box and greets children somewhere in the world. We felt the love and light of Jesus as you stuffed those boxes well beyond their intended capacities.
The Fellowship of the Cross youth and leadership are lifting prayers of thanksgiving for all who helped us pack 102 boxes in less than an hour on the final Sunday of September. We planned on filling 100, but, no surprise, SUMC went beyond capacity.
We would like to thank Kara W. for wrapping the boxes and Kandace K. for her help in preparing for the packing party. We are also grateful to Mr. Erik for sharing space with us on a concert Saturday, and to Leap of Faith, the knitting circle, the Haunted House team, and everyone who created time and space for us in the Simpson Room on Sunday mornings. We are also grateful to everyone who contributed shoe boxes and gifts through the year, including those who responded with toothbrushes, stuffed animals, scissors, rulers, and other needs in the weeks before the packing party.
We hold our packing party in September—earlier than many other churches—to accommodate a busy church calendar in October. We will bless the shoe boxes in November worship services and deliver them to an area collection site.
Since 2011, Sewickley UMC has contributed more than 1,700 boxes (including this year) to OCC campaigns. Together, we have filled at least 100 boxes for 15 consecutive years, and every one of them has been stuffed with your joy and trust in Jesus. Your love and support encourage all in the FOTC to continue seeking avenues to share God’s Light. Thank you!
Blessings,
The Fellowship of the Cross