This year, their outreach has included St Peter’s Church in Gorleston; St George’s Parish in Norwich; the Cathedral of St John the Baptist; Our Lady and St Walstan in Costessey; Cromer and Sheringham RC churches; and St Mary and St Peter Primary School in Gorleston.
Mark and Debra were particularly delighted to spend time with young people in the diocese. They spoke to the Cathedral youth group and visited St Mary and St Peter’s Primary School, where they met “a group of fun and giving children, wanting to action their faith.”
An unexpected blessing came when the Union of Catholic Mothers at Our Lady and St Walstan gifted a generous donation to support OCC’s work. Meanwhile, David Burn, a Catholic from North Norfolk, has played a vital role by attending OCC workshops and encouraging Sheringham and Cromer parishes to take part. He has also reached out to other denominations — an effort described as “a great act of unity and working together.”
Reflecting on the year, Mark said, “last year was positive in bringing new partners to share in this ministry and this year has been exceptional, for which we say thank you to all involved and also to God. In each of the churches, volunteers help with this ministry, from making gifts to the giving out and collecting in off shoeboxes and sending them off in prayer, our thanks goes to all who supported and gave.”
Operation Christmas Child has now been running for more than 30 years, yet its heart remains simple. Debra explained, “we see the joy in those who plan this ministry; who fill shoeboxes and pray before they are sent. Then we hear about and see the joy on the recipients faces. We are also fortunate to hear the testimonies of those children who now serve with OCC knowing the difference it made to them. Please do not underestimate the value of this simple gift, given in the name of Jesus.”
Anyone interested in finding out more about Operation Christmas Child for their church, school, group or business can contact Mark and Debra Watkins at markdebrawatkinsocc@yahoo.com.
More information is also available at: www.samaritans-purse.org.uk
