Every year we partner with Samaritan’s Purse for their Operation Christmas Child ministry, gathering shoeboxes filled with toys, hygiene items, gifts, and other supplies–including a written gospel message.

These boxes are then sent around the world (last year to nearly 90 different countries) and into the hands of millions of children, bringing them the message of hope through faith in Jesus through tangible evidence that someone, somewhere cares for them.

It’s a powerful global ministry, but rarely do we get the opportunity to see the effect of this ministry come full circle in such a visible way as we did on Tuesday.

Working through their sister church (Bethel Church of Owatonna), members of a church in Ukraine visited the US to, among other things, thank those that sent Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes from the Twin Cities to their church in Ukraine.

Thanks to Bethel Church member David Krull, and with the translation assistance of David’s wife Anya, Dave Clutter talked with Sasha and his daughter Marina about life in Ukraine, the impact of the OCC ministry, and unity in the body of Christ that breaks through language and culture barriers.

Enjoy the pictures, and if you missed it, check out the full interview here!

Dave Clutter with David and Anya Krull, Marina and Sasha, and OCC Area Coordinator Sheri Wood.