On Saturday, November 16th, the First Congregational Church of Bay Shore participated in a program called "Operation Christmas Child," sponsored by the Samaritan's Purse International Relief organization. Bay Shore resident Tristan Marchese, who is also starting the Youth Ministry program at FCC of Bay Shore, organized the donations and preparations to send 25 gift boxes to a school in Africa. The recipients of the boxes will be children ages two to fourteen. Over 20 members of the Congregation participated in collecting donations of personal care items, school supplies, clothing and toys, and packing boxes for shipment.