David Henrie Promotes Charitable Giving During Advent Visit to Rome
Actor and father of three David Henrie recently visited the Vatican to discuss his partnership with Cross Catholic Outreach and the importance of teaching the next generation about the "spirit of Christmas." As a global ambassador for the organization, Henrie is championing the Box of Joy initiative, which provides material and spiritual gifts to children living in extreme poverty.
Engaging Children in the Mission of Giving
For Henrie, the program serves as a tangible educational tool for his young children, helping them grasp the concept of charity through direct action. He noted that it was vital to find a more "visual way" for his family to engage with the "spirit of Christmas that involves giving back."
Hands-on Charity: Henrie’s children participate by selecting toys and supplies to fill shoeboxes for peers in developing nations.
Lasting Impact: The experience has fostered a consistent spirit of empathy in his household. Henrie noted that during family prayers, "I go, 'What do you guys want to pray for?' And they go, 'For the poor kids who don't have gifts!'"
"It was the perfect thing for me and my family because my kids got to go pick out little toys and little gifts that they put in a little shoe box and send to a kid somewhere in the world who maybe hasn't had a Christmas present before," Henrie shared.
Witnessing Poverty and Faith Abroad
Henrie and his wife, Maria, have personally delivered these gifts during mission trips to Guatemala (2024) and the Dominican Republic (2023). These journeys highlighted a striking contrast between material scarcity and spiritual richness.Selflessness in Action: While in Guatemala, Henrie witnessed a young girl immediately hand her gift over to her sibling. "I was like, 'Oh, I'm not that generous.' That was so nice of her to do for her little brother," he recalled.
Spiritual Abundance: Despite lacking basic necessities like running water, Henrie observed that many families maintained dedicated "prayer corners" and shrines.
About the Box of Joy Ministry
*Managed by Cross Catholic Outreach, the program has delivered over 781,000 gifts since its inception in 2014.
*Gift Contents Impact Toys & Clothing Provides immediate joy and utility.
*School Supplies Supports long-term education.
*Rosaries & The Story of Jesus Offers spiritual encouragement and "Christ's love."
Henrie encourages families to get involved before Christmas Day via BoxOfJoy.org, stating that "Right now is the perfect time," particularly "if you're looking for a way to get your family together around this wonderful initiative."
Edited from CNS Rome from USCCB
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