Just before Christmas of 2018, a group of children in the primary class at the Joplin, MO Community of Christ church challenged themselves. They wanted to buy goats and farm animals for Outreach International. They immediately took on the project and started bringing in their pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and dollar bills. They were all excited about helping others have better lives. Somehow they knew this act of kindness during the holiday season would make their own lives better, too.
The children’s enthusiasm for goats and farm animals sparked a fire in the congregation. And soon everyone was working together and contributing to the cause. They were making things to sell at a bazaar, hosting a chili feed and bake sale, and more. This effort by children to bring goats to a community in need spread the spirit of goodness and giving. It gained momentum and became bigger than the children even hoped for.
The congregation raised enough to purchase four goats, 20 chickens, a piglet, a sheep, a water buffalo, 30 toothbrushes and 10 pairs of shoes. And all from Outreach International’s Sustainable Gifts Catalog. It was a great lesson for everyone. They saw that money of all denominations can make a difference. And, they learned that when we work together, great things can be accomplished. We at Outreach want to congratulate and thank these thoughtful children who put others before themselves, and spread kindness around the world. Their giving spirit is a great inspiration to us all during the holidays, and throughout the year.
Story by Dan S.
