Pack ‘n’ Stack with First Year Programs on November 2
Put on an ugly Christmas sweater, grab a Santa hat, and get ready. First-Year Programs is hosting Operation Christmas Child Pack ‘n’ Stack on Nov 2.
Pack ‘n’ Stack is a service opportunity for Gateway classes to work together to pack shoeboxes for children around the world.
As director of First Year Programs, Dr. Lorinda Roberts has participated in the tradition for several years. For her, the experience is an opportunity for students to serve beyond campus.
“I hope they see that first, service learning can be fun, and it’s good to do something for the benefit beyond ourselves,” Roberts said.
In the weeks leading up to the event, Gateway classes receive budgets to buy items for the shoeboxes. Students are put in groups to prepare decorations, coordinate costumes and create banners.
“We always plan together about what our theme or plan is for what we’re gonna wear … I like to brainstorm and then vote in my class on different things,” said Dr. Kevin Nordby, a Gateway professor.
At the event, Christmas carols blare through Walker Arena, as hundreds of students pack and stack hundreds of shoeboxes. Everyone then gathers to pray over the boxes and the children who will receive them.
“It’s fun getting to know and seeing the students,” Nordby said. “It’s fun for them to do something that is real and real ministry that helps people in the world.”
Roberts has heard many stories from children who have received shoeboxes. One story in particular changed how she views her role in organizing the event.
“When I heard his story, something sparked in me that I want to make this the best we can,” Roberts said. “It was transformative for him, so I want to make it transformative for others.”
Junior Caleb Cornett participated in Pack ‘n’ Stack as a freshman and now helps guide students as a peer leader for Nordby’s class.
“I’ve really enjoyed just getting to know my class … As a peer leader, I just get to relive the Operation Christmas Child experience again,” Cornett said.
Cornett says the program helps students learn more about the work of Operation Christmas Child and views it as an opportunity to share the Gospel with children.
“Being generous and these things that the Lord calls us to do is something that’s important … more so than just our classes only, but also forming you into good people,” Cornett said.
Like so many Christmas traditions, Pack ‘n’ Stack is many things wrapped in one. It is an opportunity to serve, fellowship, have fun, and share the Gospel with others.
Get ready, Gateway classes. Lee University’s annual Operation Christmas Child Pack ‘n’ Stack will take place on Monday, Nov. 2, at 7 p.m. in the Paul Dana Walker Arena.
Photos by Emme Lowder
