Charity is one of the most important aspects of the Christian teaching. As we give to those in need, we are helping others while also strengthening our own bonds as a faith united in Christ. Charity reflects the best of humanity – people who are willing to dedicate their time and effort to giving to those who are suffering.
Our faith teaches us to never leave those who are less fortunate behind. Empowering those who are trapped in difficult socio-economic situations and aiding in the recovery of those affected by natural disasters brings us closer to God and benefits the world around us, thus fulfilling the teaching of Jesus Christ: By this shall all know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:35).
For this reason, The Light of the world congregations have been attentive to the needs of our neighbors throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Members came together and participated in the collection of food, water, and other essential items for local food banks. These supplies were dedicated to those who had lost their jobs due to the economic effects of the pandemic.
Congregants delivered gift baskets to medical personnel including hospital staff and paramedics along with police officers and firefighters as a token of appreciation for their dedication on the front lines during these hard times. Many congregations have also joined the effort to increase the vaccination rates in their communities by opening their facilities for local governments to hold pop-up vaccine clinics.
The Light of the World faith has also provided a helping hand during hurricane seasons and in the aftermath of many earthquakes. Pastors and congregations have united to gather essential items to be delivered to those affected by these catastrophic events. When an earthquake hit the country of Haiti in 2010, many Light of the World members went to help those affected. After the 2017 earthquake in Mexico, congregations of the states that were not impacted as severely came together to send aid to the affected areas. Members have also joined the rescue efforts in searching for those who were missing.
Most recently, a congregation in Prince George, Canada gave away free school supplies and haircuts to those in need ahead of the school year. Other Light of the World members in the United States have also been donating goods and time to those effected by Hurricane Ida.
Being charitable means empathizing with others, especially people who need help. Those who are marginalized and underprivileged deserve the same care and attention as everyone else, thus fulfilling the apostolic teaching referred to in Acts 20:35, which states that “working in this way, one should help those in need, and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, who said: It is more blessed to give than to receive”.
We encourage everyone to take the time today — and every day — to think of ways you can give back to your community!
#TLOTW #WeAreLight #CharityDay
