EBC auction, and gift giveaway helps spread holiday cheer

Pastor Kevin Murray (front) works the crowd for bids during the Emmanuel Baptist Church's auction and Christmas party Saturday, Dec. 19. Also pictured is volunteer auctioneer Michael Hollis as he offers deals for those in attendance. The following night the church used the $4,000-plus generated from the event to provide Christmas for over 30 local families. (photo provided) [Click to enlarge]

Emmanuel Baptist Church minister Kevin Murray recently developed an idea for making Christmas better for dozens of local families.

Working with volunteer church members, the hastily-arranged plan called for an auction of donated items. In turn, the funds raised from the auction would be used to provide gifts at no charge to deserving families for the Christmas season. At the conclusion of the auction, and subsequent "Gift Revolution" event, organizers agreed the effort had exceeded everyone's expectations.

The plan came to fruition Saturday, Dec. 19, as the church hosted the auction portion of the effort at the Piggott Community Center. The following evening the church opened its doors to 34 families, which included over 60 kids, to shop with play money to get toys, food and goodies.

The community wide charity auction and Christmas party drew a large crowd to the community center. For those on hand there were dozens of items to bid on donated by the church family. The offerings included a four-wheeler, ski boat and trailer, shotguns, compound bows, gold jewelry, appliances, autographed sports memorabilia and even Cardinal baseball tickets.

Organizers said the auction services were provided, along with all food and other expenses. At the conclusion of the auction it was reported that over $4,000 had been raised.

Sunday evening, Dec. 20, the church hosted the "Gift Revolution" portion of the weekend and put those funds to good use. While the kids were fed and entertained, family members were allowed to shop for gifts. Organizers said families went home with bicycles, electronic games, sleeping bags and toys by the hundreds. The church also provided coats to those who were in need and food baskets for all attending.

"Thanks to the generosity of those involved the EBC Gift Revolution proved to be a big success," a spokesman noted. Citing that success, church leaders indicated they look forward to a similar effort in 2010.