Christmas In Roi Et

Merry Christmas to each of you.  We wish you God's richest blessing this Christmas as we celebrate Christ's birth and the hope he brings to each of us.

We know many of you participate in the Samaritan's Purse Shoebox ministry.

We had the privilege of being part of the distributing of the Samaritan's Shoe Boxes in Roi Et this year. Around 250 boxes were given out at the Banon Christmas Event. It is a blessing being able to witness and take part in the receiving side, so we wanted to share some pictures and 

reflections with you.

Students from Banon Receiving Shoeboxes

Hannah Grace handing out the gifts

Students attended the Christmas event where they sang songs, watched a drama written by Thai Team member Patdy and performed by the students.  The drama portrayed the miracles of Jesus, the crucifixion of Jesus and then his birth.  It was all in Essan which is the heart language of the people in Roi Et.  The play was moving and was contextualized to the Thai worldview.  It was the first time some of them had heard about Jesus' life and story.






 Following the play Dr. Ubolwan    Mejudhon, one of the founders of the  ministry, came and spoke to the students about how Jesus is here ready to enter into their lives if they ask him.  Many students stood up that night and wanted to pray to Jesus.




Reflections from Hannah Grace~

"I was glad that I was able to help hand out presents to the Thai students.  Just to see the look on their faces was enough.  Even though the gifts were small they brought a lot of joy.  I kept thinking this is the only Christmas they will have and they have such happiness. "

The children waited patiently as they lined up for a gift.  Over 100 were handed out the first night and around 150 on Sunday.

Some of the favorite items received by the Thai students were stuffed animals, jewelry, socks, games, make-up, and small toys. They also really seemed to like any notes or pictures that came with the boxes.

 The boxes designated for boys ran out so many of the boys had to receive girl's gifts, but as you can tell from this picture they did not seem to mind.  They were gracious and happy to have anything.

One of the observations we have is the sharing that takes place after the boxes are open.  The Thai students share things with one another so that each one will have something they like or can use.

 

Merry Christmas to each of you.  Remember the Thai people in your thoughts and prayers this season.  Thank you all for your support so that we can serve here, helping bring his name as Lord and Savior and offer the love and peace that Christ brings.