The gymnasium of Heritage Baptist Church, Montgomery, was abuzz Dec. 12. Shopping carts were running wild, the hottest toys were being swept off shelves and gift-wrap was crinkling amid muted talk of hope, blessings and Christ.
It was Montgomery Baptist Association’s (MBA) first Ministry Centers Toy Sale, and it was a lifesaver for nearly 75 families who would not have been able to afford such a jolly Christmas for their children otherwise.
“There was such a sweet spirit on [that day] despite the rain and gloomy weather,” said Lisa Rose, director of church and community ministries for MBA.
“Over 100 volunteers came with a cheery attitude ready to work. The mood was warm and loving that day. We all kept in mind three words: love, grace and mercy — love your neighbor, give grace to each other and show mercy as you help someone.”
Four community ministry centers and 37 Montgomery-area churches joined together to collect nearly $20,000 worth of toys and money for families served by the centers throughout the year.
Brand-new baby dolls, remote-control cars, athletic equipment, board games and hundreds of other child favorites were made available to parents and legal guardians at costs ranging from 10 cents to $5.
Shopping buddies assisted them in their walk around the “store,” and the gift-wrapping section made it even easier to save on expenses and receive a one-stop-shop kind of blessing.
And many were blessed by the effort, Rose said.
Mary was one of them. Though no longer able to work because of a stroke, she recently received custody of her five grandchildren. Not only was the toy sale an opportunity for her to receive encouragement and prayer but it was also a chance for her to provide for the children just when she thought she would never be able to.
Rather than just distributing gifts to families, Rose said the intent “was providing dignity for families so they can choose their own children’s toys.”
And the blessings continue.
Leftover toys were given to needy families in the area who were unable to attend the sale, totaling nearly 150 families served, and all money raised went into the ministry centers’ benevolence fund for food and emergency assistance.
“It was definitely a blessing to see the joy on the faces of the guests as they left with toys they had purchased for their children. However, observing the love and compassion in the demeanor of our 100-plus volunteers was just as rewarding,” said Ken May, MBA director of missions.
“Seeing volunteers come to work together for the cause of Christ is uplifting. Watching a volunteer pray with a guest shows us what it is all about.” (TAB)
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