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Last week, Milligan University students kicked off the holiday season with an emphasis on sharing Christ’s love. During convocation, more than 300 students worked together to compile items and pack over 200 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse.

“This is the third consecutive year that we have put on an Operation Christmas Child event, and we want to keep it a tradition at Milligan,” said Joshua Starr, a sophomore mechanical engineering major who helped coordinate the event. “We had students, faculty, and staff participate. Each box is filled with love, hope, and the message of Jesus, making it an incredibly special moment. It is also a way here at Milligan we can share the Gospel and the love of Jesus all around the world.”

“Milligan University’s students find opportunities to serve others here at home and around the world,” said Beth Anderson, director of Milligan’s Center for Calling and Career Development. “Operation Christmas Child is an opportunity for our campus community to reach children with the good news of Jesus Christ and celebrate the gift of His birth.”

Since its founding in 1993, Operation Christmas Child has delivered shoeboxes to over 220 million children in more than 170 countries and territories. The program’s purpose is not only to provide children with toys and much-needed items but also to share a tangible expression of God’s love for every child.

The shoeboxes were filled to the brim with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and an encouraging, prayerful card written by students, faculty, or staff. These boxes will be delivered to children around the world during the Christmas season.