The children of the Kingstown Anglican School were all smiles as they received gifts from the International organisation called Samaritan’s Purse through the efforts from the local Association of Evangelical Churches (AEC) of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. {{more}}

Pastor John Lewis noted that this was a follow up from the massive Billy Graham / Ralph Bell Crusade held at the Victoria Park last year. He stressed that the organisation by giving these gifts wanted to demonstrate that the gospel is not just about preaching it, but is also about sharing God’s love in a more tangible way.

Pastor Lewis said that with those gifts, children in this country will know that others care for them and he encouraged the students to not just play with the toys and trinkets that were given to them, but to read the literature which teaches them of the love of Jesus Christ.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Laura Browne also expressed satisfaction to be part of the event which she indicated not only involved the sharing out of goodies, but the giving of literature. She said that children must be encouraged to read and having children read the gospel can inspire and instill values which last a lifetime. She urged the youngsters to take care of their gifts and not to see them as cheap because they were free . Also upholding similar sentiments was Principal Shirley King. Some 10-thousand shoe boxes of goodies were given to this country by Samaritans Purse and were distributed to children throughout the Grenadines, Windward and Leeward areas of the country.