Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared their annual Christmas message Sunday night.
With the Mormon Tabernacle Choir performing traditional Christmas carols, church leaders spoke of making Christmastime a season of love.
“The best gifts are not material things, but gifts of listening, of showing kindness, of remembering, of listening, of forgiving, of giving time,” said Young Women’s General President Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recounted the story of Ethan Van Leuven, the 4-year-old West Jordan boy fighting end-stage cancer. Van Leuven was the recipient of love and kindness from friends and strangers, who helped him to celebrate Christmas in October just three days before he died.
Elder Christofferson said it’s an example of how the spirit of Christmas can be felt throughout the year.
“So, at Christmas, the stories of sacrifice and ministering multiply across the world. Our gifts and service gladden hearts. The kindness of others pours healing balm into our own wounds. It is living the Savior’s way of life,” he said.
Speaking for the First Presidency, President Henry B. Eyring encouraged listeners to make Christ the focus of the season.
“He is the light of the world, and the sure source of comfort, hope, peace and joy,” he said.
