CHRIST CHURCH

DARE I just whisper the Christmas word?

I think I might just be allowed, as this is what Christmas is all about - Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Appeal. I know many of you who share in the passion we have for filling shoe boxes to go to children far and wide. Children who never stop being grateful all year long for a stranger's generosity.

It gives them hope and comfort, knowing they are not forgotten.

It is terrible to hear of the children receiving boxes for the first time, meaning it is the only present they have had in their lives, but so nice to think of those who had one last year and look forward to with anticipation, just like we are used to anticipating good things ourselves at Christmas.

For several years now our boxes have gone to Belarus, it is nice to know their destination, either orphanages or schools.

All this just doesn’t happen without a lot of work and planning. So, we ask you to join us to make a start on this year’s collection.

We have some boxes already wrapped, we have some "fillings" as well and we have an abundance of enthusiasm!

Let us work together, you can even take your box home to finish off.

Should you be able to bring things, but don’t feel obliged, along we need the following: Toothbrushes and paste, bars of soap and face cloths, notepads, pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, pencil cases, balls, small toys and small soft toys, hats, scarves, gloves, sweeties (not chocolates).

So, we have to think small as in size but big as in numbers as we aim for more than 500 this year. Join us at 10am to 12.00 on Saturday, September 29 where we will also have refreshments at our regular book fair.

ANGELA GREEN