What Is Light the World?
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
Light the World is a special initiative by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that encourages people all over the world to transform Christmas into a season of service. Participants are invited to touch hearts and change lives by doing the things Jesus did: feeding the hungry, comforting the lonely, visiting the sick and afflicted, and showing kindness to everyone.
Light the World is inspired by the words of Jesus. In John 8:12, He declared, “I am the light of the world,” letting us know that we can follow the light of His example to find true happiness. He used similar wording In Matthew 5:14, when Jesus said to His disciples, “Ye are the light of the world.” What better time than Christmas to let our light shine as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and everything He has made possible in our lives?
Invitations to Serve
As part of Light the World, participants use the month of December to find opportunities to perform acts of love and service for family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers. Often, suggestions for possible service ideas are shared by the Church to help spark ideas. The format may differ from year to year, but the goal is always to show love to others in the same ways that Jesus did during His mortal ministry. By doing so, we can have a more meaningful, Christ-centered Christmas.
On the Sunday before Christmas Day, we hold a special Sabbath-day meeting focused on Jesus Christ’s birth and life featuring inspired words and music. Friends and acquaintances not of our faith are welcome every Sunday but are especially invited to come and worship with us on that day.
Giving Machines
In select locations around the world, the Church installs Giving Machines during the holiday season. They function as reverse vending machines, allowing people to come in person and give instead of receive as they pick from different worldwide charities and donate to important humanitarian causes.
Inspirational Videos
To help people draw closer to Jesus Christ during the Christmas season, Light the World has also included many inspirational videos released during the month of December that help people focus on the true reason for the season.
Light the World Your Way
While not every area has access to every Light the World program or activity, the most important way to Light the World is something each of us can do on our own. All are invited to find unique ways to be kind and serve others during the Christmas season. As you do so, you will experience a more meaningful Christmas and better understand the true joy that comes from following the example of Jesus Christ.
Does Light the World Replace Traditional Christmas Celebrations?
Not at all! Light the World is completely optional and is meant to be something that adds to your traditional Christmas celebrations, not replaces them. There’s no pressure or rules. Anyone can Light the World any way they want.