In many parts of the world, Christians cannot worship freely. Churches are watched, believers are harassed and even Christmas celebrations must happen in secret.
Yet again and again, the generosity and faith of Christians is opening doors for the light of Christ to shine through.
Samaritan’s Purse UK see this regularly through their shoebox project, Operation Christmas Child. This November, they’re inviting believers across the UK to join a special initiative: the Shoebox Rally for the Persecuted Church.
Beginning 17 November, this campaign aims to fill a shipping container of pre-packed shoebox gifts donated online for children in countries where following Jesus comes at great risk—particularly in parts of the Middle East and West Africa.
Each gift given is more than a collection of toys and school supplies. It’s a symbol of hope and a reminder that God sees, loves and has not forgotten the children who receive it. For a donation of £25, supporters can send one of these pre-packed shoeboxes to bless a child in need and help believers share the love of Christ where open evangelism is difficult or even forbidden.
Contribute from your Stewardship Giving Account
When faith and courage meet
Youssef*, a pastor and Operation Christmas Child logistics coordinator, serves in one such country. Much of his ministry happens quietly in small groups or private homes. But recently, God opened an unexpected door.
When a border community asked for help, Youssef and his wife travelled there in faith. To their surprise, local officials not only welcomed them but granted permission to hold a public outreach event. There, hundreds of children received shoebox gifts and heard about Jesus for the very first time.
After the event, families approached Youssef to say their children wanted to know more. Several made decisions to follow Jesus. One young man still calls him regularly, eager to grow in his newfound faith.
Through Operation Christmas Child, each online shoebox helps faithful believers like Youssef share God’s love in their communities. The pre-packed shoeboxes donated online are specially packed to meet strict customs requirements, making them one of the few ways to reach children in restricted nations.
A call to courageous generosity
This Christmas, as you reflect on God’s goodness, perhaps He’s inviting you to give courageously and to send light where faith is costly and hope seems scarce.
Every £25 shoebox given online helps fill the container that will go to a place where the Church faces persecution. Each gift carries joy, love and eternal hope to a child who may never have heard the Gospel before.
As you give, pray for the believers who continue to serve faithfully in hard places. Their courage is a living testimony that no amount of pressure can dim the light of Christ. Pray too that many children’s hearts will be opened to Jesus Christ.
Last year alone, more than 3.2 million children came to faith through Operation Christmas Child, roughly one child for every four shoeboxes sent.
Contribute from your Stewardship Giving Account
You can also learn more or build your shoebox online at SamaritansPurse.org.uk/ShoeboxRally
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Clare Walker
Clare is part of the Opportunities Team, growing and developing new relationships with Churches and Charities and joined Stewardship in 2023.
Clare is excited to support causes to flourish and achieve more Kingdom impact, through joyful generosity. Previously Head of Engagement across England for Home for Good and a teacher for more than 20 years, Clare has also been a Trustee of Scripture Union and her local church. Clare has always been part of tiny rural churches and loves the richness of community that can be found living in a Somerset village.
