Editor:

Dear past, present and future friends and all volunteers of Operation Christmas Child gift shoe box ministry in Sevier County:

After 10 years of service in OCC Sevier County Ministry, I will be stepping down this year, although I do plan to continue in an advisory capacity at least through 2009.

I want to give special heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers for their great support and help over the past years and for the use of the Baptist Center facilities as our Relay Center. They have freely provided their time and energy without hesitation and with much enthusiasm. Also, I want to thank all the churches in Sevier County who have and will continue to support and pray for the efforts of Operation Christmas Child.

Karen Hall, originally from Australia, who became a strong helpmate for our OCC ministry in 2008, has gracefully accepted the challenge/position as OCC Sevier County Coordinator. Karen applied for the job through me, was approved and appointed by our Knoxville Collection Center Coordinators and by our OCC ministry headquarters management in Boone. I am very happy to have this very capable person replace me as I step down after 10 years of rewarding service.

Please give your full support and prayers to Karen Hall and her team of volunteers as we all try to help make OCC 2009 the best year ever in Sevier County.

Rex Mansfield

Sevierville