Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea gathered at the 4 Mile Chapel on 2nd December to launch the Church’s 'Light the World' program.
This program is an annual event of the Church worldwide where members are reminded of the true meaning of Christmas. They plan on doing acts of charity, love and service as humankind is reminded of the love of a merciful Heavenly Father for the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.
This year’s 'Light the World' event was organised for families to give of themselves by giving service to others during the four weeks of the month of December. In the first week, families were encouraged to 'Light the World,' in the second week they were encouraged to 'Light the Community,' in the third week they were encouraged to 'Light their Family' and in the fourth week they are being encouraged to 'Light their Faith.'
During the launch of the program, members in Port Moresby role played their interpretation of the true meaning of Christmas, followed by messages from their church leaders and the singing of hymns by members.
President Charles Tuigamala of the Gerehu District remarked, "The 'Light the World' launch was focused on lighting our families. Thus the program featured a family presenting the story of the birth of the Saviour. The Liri family did a tremendous job in their presentation."
Of the event, Barbara Liri commented, “The 'Light the World' program was a very spirit filled activity. Our family was involved in the program in the role play where we narrated the story of the birth of the Saviour. By taking that role, I felt the spirit touch our family and since that day, there has been a stronger bond between myself and my husband as well as with each of our children."
Barbara continued, "Our testimonies of the gospel and of Jesus Christ as the Saviour have been strengthened. It is our hope, that as families share and receive gifts at this time, we can also give ourselves in His service.”
President Tuigamala expressed his sincere hope for the members of the Church in Port Moresby as he said, "We need Christ in our homes. We must make room for the babe of Bethlehem to be the 'light' in our homes. In this season, may The light of the Saviour Jesus Christ brings peace and hope into our homes. May it mend all that is broken, strengthen that which is weak, filling our mind with understanding, and our hearts with love."
The evening was concluded with the invitation for those in attendance to give of themselves during this season, remembering that Christmas is a time to give themselves just as Heavenly Father gave His Son to them.