Marble Falls First Baptist Church

By Glynis Crawford Smith

The Highlander

Thursday, Nov. 9, is the big day for First Baptist Christian School students to pack their shoe boxes full of presents for Operation Christmas Child (OCC).

It is a reminder that anyone can become a part of the Samaritan’s Purse ministry to spread the a message of love with shoeboxes full of small gifts and a gospel.

The boxes are shipped to underprivileged children all over the world who may never have received a Christmas gift.

All Highland Lakes churches and schools are invited to participate. Last year, 28 local churches participated. The final count was 2,268 shoeboxes filled and donated. Of those, 428 were given by First Baptist Church, 113 by First Baptist Christian School and 1,727 boxes given by 27 other congregations.

“We are hoping this year’s count will be even more,” said Beverly Whittlesey, who works with the program.

School supplies, shoes, hair cuts and health screening are free Saturday~

Getting ready to go back to school is a flurry of activities for all families, but for some a financial is a dark cloud over the preparations.

A break in that cloud—the Back-to-School Blast (B2BS) sponsored by Highland Lakes Health Partnership—takes place 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Marble Falls Middle School, 1511 Pony Drive.

The event began an continues as an effort by area churches to be sure children have the backpacks and school supplies they need, but a selection of free shoes and socks has been added. This year a health fair with free vision and hearing tests is new. And, back-to-school hair cuts are free.

Vendor booths offfer some give-aways and lots of information about community services.

Burnet County churches and community members will observe the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 5, at 6 p.m. with prayers for America's government, military, media, business, education, church and family.

U.S. Congressman Roger Williams will speak on honoring veterans following and opening by Burnet County Judge James Oakley. The program will include prayer led by pastors of more than 10 Burnet County churches.

Also participating will be veterans, Hill Country Community Band and Choir and Boy Scouts to conduct a flag ceremony.