The lights of Kisumu are sure to shine brighter this Christmas season. Saturday, November 30th marked the launching of the “#Light the World” initiative from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Kisumu, Kenya. #LightTheWorld is an invitation to people throughout the world to transform Christmas into a season of service by following the example of Jesus Christ in ministering to others.
The festive event was held at the Acacia Premier Hotel and was attended by local business owners, government officials, community leaders, journalists, and interfaith representatives from the Muslim, Seventh-day Adventist, Anglican Orthodox church and others. Joseph Poche, Africa Central Area Assistant Public Affairs Director, welcomed guests and explained the objectives of the program as being to make a difference this holiday season by spreading kindness throughout the world and to foster collaboration among civic, interfaith and business entities in promoting peace.
Guests then viewed videos of “The Christ Child” and “25 daily service ideas and prompts” to help them “Light the World”.
Brother Poche invited the audience to ponder what they could personally commit to do during the next 25 days to spread kindness and be a force for good in society. One guest responded, “I will share the word of God with a friend and even an enemy.” Another said, “I will give my parents a call and tell them that I love them”. Other comments included: “Even a text message can help. I commit to send a message to someone everyday from December first to the 25th, and “I will visit the sick in the hospital.”
- President Khumbulani Mdletshe addressing guests in Kisumu LTW.
- Elder Clement M. Matswagothata
- Sheikh Haji Hassan attending Kisumu LTW
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The concluding speaker was President Khumbulani Mdletshe, President of the Kenya Nairobi Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He referenced the parable of the Good Samaritan and asked the question “Who is my neighbor?”. President Mdletshe then presented “Light the World” brochures to the audience containing the 25-day calendar of service ideas. While guests enjoyed the luncheon provided the Kisumu District Choir favored them with a rendition of “Silent Night”.
As the evening concluded, it was obvious that new friendships had been formed, and commitments made to serve others this Christmas season.
“For inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40