Lighting the Way: Reflections on Service, Faith, and the Christmas Spirit

A Christmas Letter from Chandler Growald, President of the Hurst Texas Stake

Hello my friends,

First, I would like to take a moment to express my thanks to all that have helped in the many efforts we have embarked on this year.

We have done a hoodie drive to support our local ISDs.
We have taught HAM Radio classes to members of our community and even those from outside of our area.
We’ve collected “oodles of noodles” to support local charities and
We have held numerous self-reliance classes in our various congregations, just to name a few.

Thank you all for everything you do in support of these initiatives and for you support of the Stake Presidency.

As we enter the most wonderful time of the year, I have contemplated the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I have pondered how the birth of Jesus transformed our world and gave us all hope. I have marveled at the Christmas Spirit. How it permeates everyone, regardless of faith this time of year.

In the 2011 First Presidency Christmas devotional, we were reminded:

“When we keep the spirit of Christmas, we keep the Spirit of Christ, for the Christmas spirit is the Christ Spirit. It will block out all the distractions around us which can diminish Christmas and swallow up its true meaning.”

“There is no better time than now, this very Christmas season, for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the principles taught by Jesus Christ.”

I have given thought to what we can do to rededicate ourselves to the principles of Jesus Christ.

In James 1:27, we are taught, “To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” This is another way of saying we should honor the two greatest commandments, to love the Lord our God and to love our neighbors.

What can we do?

We can pray often.
Our world is struggling. We can pray for those who suffer; that their suffering may be lifted. We can pray for those who lead, that their hearts will be lead by our Heavenly Father and softened to His purposes. We can pray for our community. We can pray for our family and our friends.

We can visit the Giving Machine (now in McKinney until Jan. 1). We are fortunate this year to have the Giving Machine in the Fort Worth area this year. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints covers all of the expenses with operating these units, wherever they may be located. Because of this, 100% of donations are sent to the indicated recipients. What an amazing opportunity.

Finally, If you can, serve!
Consider helping some of our local charities. As the Hurst Texas Stake, we support the Special Needs Assistance Program or SNAP. We also work with the I Can Still Shine Battered Women’s shelter. These organizations are wonderful and can always use our help.

In the book of Alma, chapter 27, verse 6, we learn that Heavenly Father will guide us as we focus our efforts on the "small and simple things" that bring the Savior's light into your life and strengthen your testimony of Him.

We love you all and pray for you daily.

On behalf of the Hurst Texas Stake Presidency, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a joyous and Happy New Year.

Sincerely,

President Chandler Growald