“First Presidency Message,” JustServe Community Service Guidebook (2020)
“First Presidency Message,” JustServe Community Service Guidebook
First Presidency Message
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
In response to the question from the lawyer who asked, “And who is my neighbour?” (Luke 10:29), Jesus taught the parable of the good Samaritan, which illustrates for each of us that our neighbor is anyone in need, even the stranger (see Luke 10:25–37). In the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin instructed his people, “Ye … will succor those that stand in need of your succor; ye will administer of your substance unto him that standeth in need,” for “when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 4:16; 2:17).
From the earliest days in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we have been encouraged to engage in service beyond the walls of our homes and chapels. As God’s children, we desire to be true disciples of Jesus Christ. We are grateful for His abundant blessings. Each of us would like to reach out in Christlike service to share those blessings with others, but we may not know how to start or where to go. JustServe.org is designed as a resource to help us as individuals, families, and groups find opportunities near our homes to help those in need and improve the quality of life in our communities.
As members and friends of the Church reach out in an effort to minister to people in need, we create a spirit of love and cooperation that transcends differences and connects us as children of God. May the Lord bless you in this effort to give selfless service as your time and circumstances permit.
The First Presidency