Christmas in July Party

Howdy Church!

I pray you are all having a grand week. Please remember those who are serving at KidsHeart this week in your prayers!

I wanted to take this chance to tell you more about the Christmas in July Party that is taking place Sunday, July 25 at 6:00 pm.

Probably the best way to do this is in the form of FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions), so here we go:

What in the world is Christmas in July, I thought Jesus was born in December?
Well, actually, we're not exactly sure when Jesus real birthday is, but since he is eternal, that doesn't really matter, but it is Ronnie Viss' birthday. Still, all of that is kind of beside the point. Christmas in July is designed to be a fun fellowship for the WHOLE CHURCH put on by our youth ministry. We'll have a traditional Christmas dinner, do a couple of Christmasy (that's a word, I promise) things, and then pack some shoeboxes to kickoff our Operation Christmas Child Campaign for 2010.

Traditional Christmas dinner, sounds good . . . Ben's not cooking, is he?
Well, yes, he is. However you are invited to help by bringing your favorite traditional Christmas favorite--cookies, stuffing, green bean casserole, cookies (I know I already said that, but it is important), cranberry sauce, etc., etc., etc. We'll be having turkey and ham--we said traditional people!

What should one bring to a Christmas in July party?
You should bring yourself, a traditional Christmas dish (see previous question), spare shoeboxes you might have, and things to stuff inside the shoebox (we'll be more specific about this 'stuff' in a later question).

What does a shoebox have to do with Christmas or July? And what's this 'stuff' you mentioned, I can't wait to know!?!
Goodness, that's two questions at once. We'll be packing the shoeboxes with gifts for kids in need around the world as part of Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child. For many of them, this shoebox of goodies will be the only thing they'll get for Christmas, and it will serve as a tangible example of Christ's love to them. We'll be taking shoeboxes through November at the church, but this event will serve as our kick-off. If you'd like more information about Operation Christmas Child, like what 'stuff' goes in each box, there is info on the ministry table or you may visit samaritanspurse.org/occ

Are you sure I'm invited, this sounds like a youth event?
Yes, yes, yes, you're invited! Everyone is invited to come. We will leave our ugly sweaters and ridiculousness for the youth party in December. This is more about having a meal together and taking an active role in missions, together, as a church. Please come, Christmas in July won't be the same without YOU!

How will you know how many people to prepare for?
Another great question, (even if not so frequent). We will have a sign-up sheet at the ministry table for the next two Sundays (July 18 and 25) for you to let us know you're planning on coming.

I have another pressing question you haven't answered in the more frequently asked questions!
That is not actually a question, but, we can play this one like Jeopardy. Why should I talk to Ben? I'll take Youth Minister for $200, Alex.
No seriously, if you have any questions about Christmas in July, ask Ben, he'd be glad to answer them.

I look forward to seeing you all at the Christmas in July Party!

~Peace
Ben