Beyond a Shoebox
The day a child receives their Operation Christmas Child shoebox is a very special occasion! On the day, children gather from all around their community to attend a presentation at the local church. Each child receives a shoebox plus a booklet (in their language) called The Greatest Gift and are presented the message of the Gospel. Afterward, the children celebrate together by opening their gift-filled shoeboxes.
Following this ceremony, children and families are invited by the local church to take part in
The Greatest Journey, a 12-lesson discipleship program that children enrol in to learn more about the Gospel. Each lesson, children hear Bible stories and memorise important Bible verses. Upon completion, a graduation ceremony is held where they receive a certificate.
Most importantly, each child is invited to make a decision for Christ, to become faithful followers of Jesus in their daily lives as they share Him with family and friends.
To complete the Journey, each child is presented a Bible that includes the New Testament along with a glossary of Biblical terms and a map of Bible lands.