CADIZ — On Sunday, the Scott Memorial Methodist Church in Cadiz was recognized by “Operation Christmas Child,” in appreciation for its five years of partnership in the program.
The recognition also acknowledges the church as an official drop-off location for the shoebox ministry. Presentation of the “Award of Recognition” was presented to the church and Cindy Harrah by Brian and Alicia Zaugg. The Zauggs are the logistics coordinators of the shoebox ministry for a five-county area. Their area includes Holmes, Harrison, Carroll, Coshocton, and Tuscarwas counties.
“We are very happy to be part of this shoebox ministry,” said Alicia Zaugg. “Each shoebox created and delivered brings a gift for a child who may not have received anything for Christmas. We are just as happy and pleased with opportunity to work with the churches of the counties, and the individuals that collect and put together the shoebox gifts!”
In part, the recognition award reads; “Your Love for the Lord Jesus Christ is demonstrated through your service and compassion for others. God bless you for making a difference in the lives of children and their families through Operation Christmas Child – Franklin Graham, president, Samaritan’s Purse.”
“Last year, the five-county area helped to distribute over 35, 000 boxes,” Brian Zaugg said. “Globally, the ministry shipped and distributed a total of over 10 million boxes! Here at the Scott Memorial Church, we are happy to be able to work with Cindy Harrah who acts as the drop-off coordinator. Cindy was very instrumental in the church becoming the location to coordinate the collection of the shoeboxes from our area churches.”
Pictured during the award ceremony, Brian and Alicia Zaugg, (from left) area logistics coordinators, for Operation Christmas Child presents an appreciation award to Cindy Harrah, shoebox drop-off coordinator, and Pastor Leslie Mahaney of Scott Memorial Methodist Church.
Leslie Mahaney, pastor at Scott Memorial Methodist Church, has been ministering there since July of this year. “This shoebox program is something that we do that reflects good works,” Mahaney said. “ We all are so very proud of the people that work behind the scenes to make this program the success it is. We also want to thank all of the people who donate annually to the shoebox ministry.”
In addition to all of the good work that the Scott Memorial Church does, the church will be presenting “Lighthouse Training Sessions” in October of this year. “The Lighthouse Training is geared to folks that are looking for a safe place to be while they figure out what’s next (considering in their religious life). Whether you are an individual or a group of people who have become displaced or churchless because of closing or disaffiliation, Lighthouse congregations will be there for you during this difficult times,” it was explained.
Some other aspects of the training include topics and sessions, such as creating space to learn and grow, small group gathering, Bible study, prayer opportunities, serve through hands on ministries, offering Communion, hospital visits, gatherings at coffee shops, and finding ways to be available to those who are in need of pastoral care, and more.
The Lighthouse Training Sessions will be held on Oct. 17 at 1 p.m. through 4 p.m., and on Nov. 8 at 9:30 a.m. through 12:30 p.m.
