Promoting Unity

Church activity provides us many opportunities to work with people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic levels, marital status, educational levels, career paths, and religious experience. With these differences come opportunities for spiritual and emotional growth as we learn new ways to work with and be of service to others. The following suggestions have helped me fellowship members of my ward:

1. Greet everyone, especially new or unfamiliar members. Take time to learn their names and something about them. We are all more likely to attend Church functions when we know we have a friend in the ward.

2. Be faithful home and visiting teachers. These visits provide excellent friendshipping opportunities. Offer to help people to become involved and to meet other ward members.

3. Avoid jokes or comments that may be offensive. If you realize you have inadvertently said something hurtful, be quick to apologize and resolve any concerns. In turn, if you see that an individual feels alienated because of something careless someone else said, help reassure that no offense was intended.

4. See opportunities to serve and include everyone. When appropriate, ask new members how you can involve them. One way is to ask for their input if you are organizing an upcoming ward activity. Be open to as many suggestions as possible.

5. Build genuine friendships. Invite others to your home or to an activity. If you see a newfound friend shopping at a local store, eating at a restaurant, or attending church, take time to visit for a few moments.

   Although it takes effort to get to know someone whose background may be different from yours, the experience enriches your life too. When you think about it, we all come from diverse backgrounds.

Kimberley C. Hirschi, San Diego 12th Ward, San Diego California North Stake