Over 1,000 households supported in annual Light the World campaign
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has once again demonstrated its commitment to service by touching the lives of nearly 2,000 households in Ghana through its annual #LightTheWorld campaign.
This year’s initiative reached communities in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis in the Western Region and the La-Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality in the Greater Accra Region, spreading hope and kindness during the festive season.
Bringing hope to Sekondi-Takoradi
On December 3, 2024, the campaign was launched in Sekondi-Takoradi at the Stake Chapel under the theme “Let Your Light Shine.” Over 600 households in the Western Region received care packages containing essential items such as rice, canned foods, frozen chicken, cooking oil, beans, sugar, and millet, helping families meet their needs during the holiday season.
Elder Isaac K. Morrison, 2nd Counsellor in the Church’s Africa West Area Presidency, emphasized the campaign’s core objective of fostering love and unity. “Our goal is to inspire kindness and harmony within our communities. This year, we are focusing on the importance of loving our neighbours, reflecting the message of ‘peace and goodwill toward men,’” he said.
The beneficiaries, selected in collaboration with church and community leaders, included vulnerable individuals under the care of Takoradi Social Welfare, residents of elderly care homes, people with special needs, and members of the wider community. These efforts highlight the Church’s commitment to uplifting the vulnerable through practical support.
Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, commended the Church’s dedication to sharing Christ’s love. “It is heartwarming to see the Church using its resources to make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us. Such thoughtful acts remind us of the importance of showing kindness every day,” he remarked.
Chief Imam of Takoradi, Muhammad Awal, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Acts of kindness transcend boundaries and beliefs. Seeing diverse communities come together to support the needy is a testament to the essence of humanity.”
Extending the Light to La-Nkwantanang-Madina
In the La-Nkwantanang-Madina area, over 480 households benefited from the Light the World campaign. Speaking at the event, Alexander Ansong, First Counselor of the Church in the Madina Area, emphasized the Church’s commitment to spreading Christ’s love. “Each year, we donate to our community through the Light the World program. During this festive season, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we aim to share His love and uplift those in need,” he said.
The event further reinforced the Church’s commitment to Christian teachings that encourage caring for the needy, irrespective of their religious or cultural affiliations.
A Global Campaign of Service
The Light the World initiative, launched globally in 2016, continues to inspire acts of kindness across continents. It encourages individuals to engage in meaningful service throughout December, including through its “25 Ways in 25 Days” initiative, which prompts participants to perform daily acts of kindness.
Mission Leaders for the Ghana Accra East Mission, Benjamin Beeson and his wife, reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to charitable acts. “As a Church named after Jesus Christ, we strive to emulate His generosity and kindness, spreading His light through our actions,” they stated.
A Call to Action
Through partnerships with local leaders from various faiths and organizations, including social welfare departments, the Church ensured aid reached the most deserving individuals. By addressing immediate needs and fostering goodwill, the campaign embodies the essence of Christmas. As the Light the World 2024 campaign progresses, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints invites everyone to join the spirit of giving, emphasizing that even small acts of kindness can light up the world.
