Tag Archive for: light the world

Where We Place the Light

All day I’d been talking about candles.
It was Christmas after all, and I felt the house needed some more atmosphere.
That soft warmth and flickering sense of seasonal intention.
Monic, as ever, was very patient with me.
Perhaps I’d been influenced by recent weeks of encouraging others to let their light shine and light the world. Perhaps I was trying to practice what I’d been sharing. Either way, I eventually settled on what felt like the perfect solution.
Candles, set on the bookcase.
Monic gently suggested I be careful.
We then did what many do at Christmas. We sat down together and started a game of Sequence. Cards dealt. Concentration engaged. Festive harmony achieved.
We didn’t get very far, when only a few minutes into the game, Amilya shrieked:
“𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲𝑪𝑨𝑺𝑬 𝑰𝑺 𝑶𝑵 𝑭𝑰𝑹𝑬!
And indeed, it certainly was.
A sudden dash. A moment of collective disbelief. One glass of water deployed with impressive urgency. The flames were extinguished. The danger passed.
The damage, however, was done – a scorched bookcase…
In all our years together, we’ve never had a fire quite like that at home.
And certainly not one caused by an attempt to create cosy Christmas atmosphere.
It turns out that not all light belongs everywhere.
This has become something of a cautionary fun tale in our home.
Good intentions matter, but so does wisdom.
Enthusiasm is powerful, but it still needs boundaries.
And light, for all its goodness, must be placed carefully if it’s truly going to bless rather than burn.
Life and Leadership can be a bit like that.
We encourage people to shine. To bring energy. Passion. Conviction. Light. But timing matters. Context matters. And listening to those around us matters too – especially the calm voice saying, “Just be careful.”
Too much light, in the wrong place, without enough thought, can cause unintended damage – even when my motive was a pure one.
The aim isn’t to dim the light, rather It’s to place it well.
And perhaps… keep a glass of water nearby, just in case! 😉
Whose quiet voice saying “be careful” might be worth listening to today?

Sixty Seconds of Christmas

And so, this is Christmas…
For weeks, actually months, it’s been anything but simple.
Countless calls and meetings. Spreadsheets. Logistics. Risk assessments. Transport. Permissions. Volunteers. Charities. Launch plans.
A small army of remarkable people giving their time, energy and hearts to make the Light the World Machines in Birmingham and London a reality.
The effort to get those machines switched on and standing proudly in the middle of busy shopping centres was, frankly, huge.
And yet…the most precious moment of my entire year with the machines didn’t come at the launch. It didn’t come from a speech, a photo opportunity, or a “job well done”.
It came in about sixty seconds.
Whilst in Birmingham, a young woman approached the machines and paused in front of them.
She asked me a question, then scanned the machines slowly and thoughtfully. Settling on a hygiene kit, she tapped her card, spent £20, smiled warmly and simply said, “Thank you.”💕
That was it.
No fanfare.
No explanation.
No need for agreement on beliefs, backgrounds or labels.
Just generosity.
Just kindness.
Just a human recognising the quiet opportunity to help another human.
In that moment, all the noise fell away and it just felt good.
It didn’t feel like a campaign.
Or an initiative.
Or even an event.
It felt like Christmas.
Because Christmas, at its heart, isn’t about scale or spectacle.
It’s not about how polished the lights are or how perfectly the plan came together.
It’s about noticing.
It’s about choosing compassion.
It’s about giving – freely, quietly, and without needing recognition.
That young woman will probably never know what her simple act meant to me.
But in that very moment, through her act of kindness, she captured the true spirit of Christmas.
And so, this is Christmas.
Where has Christmas quietly revealed itself to you this year?

Small Gifts, Big Light

Earlier this week, I took an early morning flight down to Birmingham for a very important event.
What an unforgettable day it turned out to be! 😊
Standing beside the Light the World Charity Machines, surrounded by friends, volunteers, families, shoppers, dignitaries, a missionary choir and even Father Christmas 🎅 himself, I was reminded again of the simple truth that small acts of kindness can create extraordinary light.
The launch was more than just a fun event.
It felt like a gathering of goodness.

Joy

I watched people smile as they discovered they could gift a meal, newborn essentials, clean water, hygiene supplies, job training, a goat, a sheep or even a chicken, right there in the middle of Grand Central, to help our 9 charity partners.
I saw children tug at their parents’ sleeves, wanting to “press the buttons.”
I saw complete strangers talking to one another, volunteers sharing stories, and hearts quietly softening in the bustle of a very busy shopping mall.
And for a moment, it didn’t feel like December chaos in a shopping centre.
It felt like Christmas.
Don’t get me wrong there were many who walked by with that classic “What on earth is happening here?” expression… while others slowed down, curiosity overcoming them, and soon found themselves caught up in the spirit of it all.
I’m grateful for the countless hands, early mornings, late nights, prayerful efforts, and steady teamwork that made this possible.
Many in Birmingham were generous, full of the festive spirit, and I left feeling humbled by the kindness I witnessed over and over again.
If you’re in the city, please stop by and experience it for yourself.
The machines are in situ until 21st December, next to Nando’s in Grand Central.
Look out for them arriving in Spitalfields Market in London from Saturday 6th December too.
As you visit, I promise, it will lift your mood, brighten your day, and maybe even spark something in your heart.
Because when we choose to give, even in the smallest ways, the light we share shines far beyond what we can see.
Who in your world could use a little light this week?

Give a Little Light

Finally!
Tomorrow is the day.
After months of planning, learning, preparations galore and working side by side with so many talented people, the Light the World Charity Machines open at 11.00am in Birmingham’s Grand Central Shopping Centre (Monday 1st December).
I feel excited, but also deeply blessed.
These past few months have been filled with the sweetest moments as I have worked with so many gifted volunteers.
Their talent, kindness, and steady willingness to serve have lifted this whole project.
It has genuinely been a privilege to be part of it.
And now we get to share it with everyone.
Light the World is Christmas at its very best.
It turns the season into something bright and joyful by inviting us to do what Jesus did and “do good” (Acts 10:38) in simple, meaningful ways.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers every operational cost, which means your entire donation (100%) goes straight to the charity you choose.
Nothing lost. Only love shared.
And the gifts you can choose this year are wonderful.
Food for a family. Clean water for a village. Sleeping bags, hygiene kits, farming tools, job training, school supplies. Even goats, sheep, or chickens.
Nine charities will benefit this year.
This Christmas, you can give a gift that changes lives.
When you donate, I promise you will leave with more peace than you came with, simply take notice of what happens to your mood.
A little spark of joy settles in your heart when you choose to help someone else.
“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa.
You can find the machines in Birmingham from 1 to 21 December, and also in London’s Spitalfields Market from 6 to 20 December.
If you are nearby, come stop for a minute, press a button, and let your giving shine.
Together, we can help light the world in a season that celebrates the Light of the World Himself, even Jesus Christ.
Whose Christmas could you brighten with one small gift of love?

 

The Light is Building

These last few months have been filled with long hours, careful planning, and the combined effort of dozens of volunteers from around the country, all preparing for the 2025 Christmas Light the World Charity Machines campaign here in the UK.
It’s been an extraordinary team effort.
From spreadsheets and storage visits to unpacking machines and testing our brand-new digital displays, plus meetings galore, the work behind the scenes has been simply remarkable.
A recent visit to our London storage site, packed with machines, Christmas lights, scarves, and signage, made it all start to feel real.
The digital machines have arrived, unwrapped, and are now coming to life.

Launch Events

The excitement is building too for launch events this Christmas, at Parliament in Westminster, and our host venues at 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 (6th – 20th December) in London and 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 in Birmingham (1st – 21st December). ✨
Each machine is simple in purpose but profound in impact.
Instead of buying something for yourself, you can choose to purchase a goat, a meal, a winter blanket, or even school supplies for someone in need – near or far.
With 100% of every donation going directly to our charity partners who deliver these items and services to those they serve.
But to make it all work, we need your help. ❤️
We’re now seeking volunteers to help staff the machines throughout their placement in December, in Birmingham and London.
Each shift involves welcoming visitors, helping them understand how the machines work, and sharing in the joy of giving.
You’ll also help at the many events being planned around the machines, including choirs, community gatherings, and festive performances that will light up the season.
If you’d like to volunteer, please get in touch – we’d love to have you on the team.
“Therefore, let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Together, we’re lighting the world, one act of love, one small gift, and one bright smile at a time.
Who could you invite to share in the joy of giving?

Sharing Light, Building Hope

Earlier this year, I was asked to coordinate the Church’s Light the World charity machine initiative across the UK for Christmas 2025.
The Initiative features customised vending machines and kiosks stocked with tangible items and services to help people in need, either in the UK or across the world.
In turn these items and services provide a meaningful and memorable way to show love and extend hope to individuals and families.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all costs associated with the charity machines and receives zero financial benefit.
100% of every donation goes directly to the participating nonprofit organisations.
For me, it’s been a wonderful opportunity to serve and build many new friendships along the way too.

Light the World

Following a lovely meal together on Friday evening, yesterday, many of us from across the UK Communications Council gathered at the Preston Temple in Chorley, for our annual training meeting.
It is always a wonderful opportunity to learn, connect, and refocus our shared purpose for the year ahead.
It was also great to finally meet Naomi Notice, our City Lead for London, face to face.
In recent months, like so many involved in the Light the World campaign, we’ve had frequent calls and messages, as the pace of the project quickens.
Naomi’s enthusiasm and creativity have already made a massive difference.
She brings oodles of energy, professionalism, and a huge heart for service – essential qualities that perfectly capture the spirit of the whole Christmas initiative.
As we met together, the temple provided a beautiful reminder of why we do what we do: to share light, to build bridges of understanding, and to invite others to feel the love of Jesus Christ.

Giving

This initiative offers both givers and receivers the chance to experience “good tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10).
Meeting together throughout the day, there was a real sense of shared purpose and hope for all of us as we looked ahead over the next 5 to 10 years of significant projects not only here in the UK but around the world.
It was a reminder of how much can be achieved when we work together in faith and unity.
2025 is shaping up to be a remarkable year for Light the World – Charity Machines in the UK, and yesterday’s meeting renewed our collective commitment to make it our best yet.
Look out for the machines in December this year at the Bullring in Birmingham and Spitalfields Market in London.
What small act of love or service could brighten someone’s day this week?

Shine a Light

Last week whilst in London, I finally met up with a new friend, Jordan Broadbent in person after weeks of working together remotely.
Jordan leads humanitarian efforts for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Europe North Area.
It is such a small world, as it turns out I’ve known his brother Jamie for years through our church connection as well!
The two of us are teaming up this Christmas (yes, we’re making lots of preparations already) with a host of others to help shine a light through service and giving.
We’re working closely to support several charities globally, nationally and locally, through the Light the World initiative.
In December you’ll find donation machines in some hi-profile locations in Birmingham and London.
I’m really excited about what’s ahead this Christmas season and very grateful to be working alongside Jordan on such a meaningful initiative.
Let’s Light the World, one act of kindness at a time. ✨
What small act of kindness could make a big difference in your community?

Holy Oats!

Arising early, there is an icy chill in the air.
It’s a sure sign that winter has arrived.
I love my morning ritual of preparing my porridge oats…
Porridge is one of the healthiest ways to start your day.
Weighing 55 grams of good quality oats, I then add 325ml of creamy oat milk.
Soaking the oats to allow them to soften and absorb the milk for a while, is key.
Then, I place the mixture over a gentle heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon, allowing the porridge to warm and bubble.
I’ve learned that the simmering unlocks the full flavour of the porridge.
It’s a slow and steady process that cannot be rushed.
The result, as the oats and milk gradually become one, they transform into a creamy delicious porridge.
A sprinkling of fruit, then a drizzle of maple syrup adds the final touch, creating a warming and satisfying dish.
Shock, horror, agog – “no salt!!?” – I hear my fellow Scots shout!
There are few things more comforting than a steaming bowl of Scots porridge oats!
I love it!
I’ve found, that a well-made bowl of porridge somehow brings me real satisfaction and energy for the day ahead.
Just as porridge fills and warms me right through on a chilly winter’s morning, I know that Christ’s love and His light sustains, warms and nourishes our souls, especially as our focus returns to Him during the Christmas season.
I know too, that a well-lived life centred on Jesus Christ brings joy and purpose that can carry us through all seasons, even the coldest and darkest of winter days.
It’s my experience that when the warmth of His light stirs within us, slowly but surely, we can all become more like Him.
Likewise, as my morning porridge warms me through, Christ’s light warms the soul, lifting our spirits and spreading peace, hope and joy.
Just as the simmering slowly transforms oats into something nourishing, His light refines and strengthens us daily.
What small daily rituals help you feel sustained and uplifted, both physically and spiritually?

The Candlestick

Recently, we discovered that the mission home didn’t have any candlesticks.
Our quest – find an appropriate one!
“What is Christmas without candles” we thought.
In town, we peered through the kringloop window.
Pointing to a Scrooge like candlestick, “I like that one…” I said.
And so, Monic and I walked inside the higgledy-piggledy tardis like little shop.
As we walked around, we gazed upon candlesticks of every size, shape, and material.
Eventually, we settled on the one that we admired in the window.
We purchased our favoured brass candlestick with another smaller one too.
Both were in need of a good polish.
We purchased some brasso and went to work on cleaning them, removing the dirt & grime of the yesteryears.
Why go to all this effort I hear you ask?

Powered by…

Our home, and Christmas tree are decorated with sparkling lights, all powered by electricity.
Jesus said to his followers, “I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” – John 8:12.
Wouldn’t it be much more powerful I thought, if each of our lives were powered and illuminated by Him, the light of the world?
In a like manner, each Christmas allows us to clean up, polish and rid ourselves of the dirt & grime of the year gone by focusing our heart and mind on the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, so we can enjoy the “light of life.”
He said, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14-16
The one thing our world needs more than anything right now, more than any other, is the 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕.
The boundaries of darkness must be pushed back.
Remember, we are the candles of the Lord.
“The spirit of man,” as the scripture says, “is the candle of the Lord.” Proverbs 20:27
This Christmas time, as you turn the lights on at home, or light a flickering candle, remember to polish the light of your spirit, with the great eternal light, even 𝕵𝖊𝖘𝖚𝖘 𝕮𝖍𝖗𝖎𝖘𝖙.

My Finest Friend

Forty years ago this week, my missionary companion trainer (Kelley Gray) and I were serving together in Shepherd’s Bush in London.
We’d moved there in the first week of December 1983.
We were two bright eyed and bushy tailed young missionaries resolute on finding success.
Christmas was fast approaching, and we were determined to find new ways to share our message of Jesus Christ.
A couple of years earlier, the church had produced a new Movie, “Mr Krueger’s Christmas”.
Video recorders were still new, and not too many people had them in their homes yet.
We decided that we’d borrow a huge reel to reel projector (we’re talking massive) from the mission office in our Hyde Park Chapel, transport it to our area, and then use it to go door to door, offering everyone we met a wonderful at home Christmas movie experience!
Whacky idea – Yes! Creative – Yes! Successful – Yes!
We transported the projector by tenaciously balancing it on the centre bar of our bicycles and vividly remember my companion nearly crashing and burning on a couple of occasions!
We also ingeniously, used an OAP’s shopping trolley to pull the projector from neighbourhood to neighbourhood and door to door.
I cannot recall exactly how many people’s home’s we got into, but it was lots!
We watched that movie so many times. Even now, I can recite the words and songs of the movie almost perfectly.
Great times, never to be forgotten.
This year, I may well watch “Mr Krueger’s Christmas” once again.
In one scene, Jimmy Stewart who plays the lead role in the movie, as Willie Krueger, steps towards baby Jesus and says “Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. As long as I can remember you’ve been right by my side. I’ll never forget when you walked with me right in those first few hours after I lost Martha.”
“I’ve always been able to count on you when I’ve felt dark inside” Krueger says.
As he kneels before the Christ child he says “I love you. You’re my closest, 𝒎𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅. And that means I can hold my head high, wherever I go.”
Forty years have passed since that Christmas experience.
In between, I’ve come to know the Light of the World, Jesus Christ, even more, much more personally.
Just like Willie Krueger I can say “I love you. You’re my closest, 𝒎𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅. And that means I can hold my head high, wherever I go.”
I hope you find Him too this Christmas Season.