LDS Church leaders encourage gifts of kindness during Christmas season


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SALT LAKE CITY — With the colorful lights around Temple Square and a touch of winter weather in the air, it is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. And on Sunday evening, Latter-day Saints heard inspiring words to help them start the season off on an uplifting note.

Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared a message of peace during the faith's annual Christmas Devotional.

President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the church's First Presidency, spoke about the importance of keeping the focus on Jesus Christ during the busy holiday season.

"It is our hope, our sincere hope, that each of you may be blessed to experience the peace and joy that are manifest through the redeeming love of our Savior Jesus Christ," President Eyring said.

Other leaders talked about giving gifts of service and showing forgiveness to others.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency, concluded the devotional by reminding church members that giving gifts of kindness can come in many forms.

"Let this become our Christmas tradition, no matter where we are, to be a little kinder, more forgiving, less judging, more grateful and more generous in sharing our abundance with those in need," President Uchtdorf said.

If you missed Sunday night's Christmas Devotional, you'll soon be able to watch it in its entirety on the church's website at lds.org/broadcasts/first-presidency-christmas-devotionals.

And again this year, the LDS Church is promoting a campaign of service during the Christmas season on social media. The Light the World effort provides "25 ways in 25 days" throughout December for people to help their neighbors, friends and others in need.

Contributing: Jordan Ormond

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