His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II delivering a speech at the event in Accra
More than 2,500 residents across Accra and Kumasi have benefited from this year’s ‘Light the World’ initiative, a global Christmas humanitarian effort by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The initiative, which seeks to bring hope, compassion, and joy to individuals and families during the festive season, saw the distribution of essential food items, including rice, oil, spaghetti, chicken, tomatoes, and other household necessities, all of which are staples enjoyed during Christmas celebrations. It was held under the theme: ‘Experience His Light – Jesus Christ is the Light of the World’.
Accra: Ga Mantse Palace hosts colourful food-drive
In Accra, the initiative was hosted in partnership with the Ga Mantse Foundation at the Ga Mantse Palace in Kaneshie, where high-ranking religious leaders, traditional authorities, government officials, missionaries, artists, and community members came together in a vibrant display of unity and compassion that underscored the true spirit of Christmas.
More than 1,200 families received carefully prepared bags of essential food items.
These packages were lovingly assembled by young missionaries from across Africa who are training at the Missionary Training Center (MTC) in Accra.
A global effort to bring the Light of Christ — Accra Ghana MTC President Benoit Duquette
In his remarks, President Benoit Duquette, President of the Accra Ghana MTC, stated that the event was a true reflection of the Light the World initiative, a global humanitarian effort designed to bring hope, compassion, and joy to individuals and families during the festive season.
“Every year at Christmas, we look for ways to bring the light of Jesus Christ into the lives of those around us, especially those who may be facing difficulties,” President Duquette said.
“Our young missionaries from all over Africa have prepared over 1,200 bags of food for families in need. This is our humble way of sharing the light of Christ so that everyone feels seen, valued, and remembered during this special season,” he added.
Elder Kofi Gyimawu Sosu, Area 70 Leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Church giving an opening remark at the event held in Kumasi
Beneficiaries seated at the event, ready to receive the donated items during the event at Jubilee Park in Adum Kumasi
Dignitaries seated together at the event held in Accra at the Ga Mantse’s Palace at North Kaneshie
President Benoit Duquette, President Missionary Training Center at the Church of the Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints delivering a speech at the event in Accra at the Ga Mantse’s Palace
Donated items beautifully packaged and prepared for presentation to the beneficiaries in Accra
President Duquette also highlighted the global reach of the programme, noting that throughout the world, the Church has installed ‘Light the World’ giving machines that allow individuals to purchase food, clothing, medical supplies, and other necessities for vulnerable communities.
“Light the World is a worldwide effort. The Church partners with organisations worldwide to support those in need. We hope that the spirit of giving does not end at Christmas; it is something we desire to carry throughout the entire year,” he said.
Ga Mantse – ‘A picture of unity, cohesion, and shared humanity’
His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, praised the Church for choosing the Ga Mantse Palace as the venue for such a meaningful and impactful community service event.
“Today, what we have witnessed here is a picture of unity, cohesion, and shared humanity. I thank The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for bringing this initiative to the heart of the Ga State.
Your generosity and devotion to service reflect values that are central to our people. This collaboration demonstrates what is possible when we work together for the good of our communities,” the Ga Mantse said.
He encouraged other institutions to emulate the spirit of giving and togetherness demonstrated at the event.
MP commends initiative, calls for more collaborative social support
Hon. Ernest Adomako, Member of Parliament for Okaikoi South, also delivered remarks, applauding the Church and the Ga Mantse Foundation for organising a timely intervention when many households are under economic pressure.
“At a time when many families are struggling with rising living costs, this initiative is a welcome source of relief,” he said.
“The partnership between the Latter-day Saints and the Ga Mantse Foundation is a model for how institutions can come together to address real needs in our communities. I commend the Church for its continued commitment to humanitarian service,” he added, urging beneficiaries to see the gesture not only as material support but also as a reminder that the broader community stands with them.
A season of giving and a call for year-round compassion
As Christmas approaches, President Duquette noted that missionaries and church members across Ghana and West Africa will continue engaging in acts of service in their communities.“We are encouraging our members to ‘light the world’ in their own homes, their neighbourhoods, and in every small and personal way they can,” he said. “The light of Christ should not dim after December. It is something we carry with us throughout the year.”
A cultural celebration rooted in community
The colourful event featured a vibrant cultural performance by a Ga troupe, interfaith goodwill messages from Muslim, Christian, and Traditional leaders, a musical performance by renowned gospel artist Joe Mettle, and spoken-word artistry celebrating unity and service.
These elements brought energy, cultural pride, and emotional resonance to the programme, reinforcing both the communal spirit of the season and the purpose of the initiative.
Kumasi – Local communities embrace the spirit of giving
In Kumasi, more than 1,300 residents benefited from the initiative, receiving similar food packages containing rice, spaghetti, chicken, oil, and other Christmas staples.
At the launch in Kumasi, an Area Seventy of the Church, Elder Kofi G. Sosu, insisted that the season’s message goes beyond festive decorations and celebrations.
“These donations are not just food; they are symbols of love, compassion, and solidarity. They are meant to bring happiness to families, ease burdens, and remind each recipient that Christ loves them personally,” Elder Sosu said.
According to him, Christmas is about Jesus Christ, whose birth brought hope to a turbulent world. When celebrations are focused on Him, then individuals can truly experience His light that heals, uplifts, and unites.
As part of the initiative, Elder Sosu encouraged the public to participate in the ‘25 Ways in 25 Days’ service calendar, included in each food package.
“Each day in December offers a simple act of kindness. We invite everyone to experience His light daily through service,” he added.
Elder Sosu further highlighted the Church’s longstanding humanitarian work in Ghana, including clean water projects, educational support, health initiatives, and disaster relief efforts made possible through voluntary member donations.
He also expressed gratitude to interfaith leaders, traditional authorities, and community leaders who collaborated with the Church to identify beneficiaries.
“This gathering is a testimony that light transcends boundaries. Whether Christian, Muslim or of another faith tradition, we are united in the belief that service to humanity is service to God,” he said.
Kumasi Mayor applauds the Church’s commitment
Kumasi Mayor, Richard Ofori Agyeman-Boadi, praised faith-based organisations for their role in supporting the vulnerable.
“Faith-based organisations have a responsibility to impact humanity positively, and this is at the heart of Christianity. I am delighted that the Church has undertaken this programme and hope they will return next December to reach even more people,” he said.
The Mayor also commended the Church for its exemplary cleanliness.
“As a City Manager, I admire how well they maintain their environment. If every church behaved like them, our communities would be cleaner, and we would reduce the cost of waste management,” he said.
Mr. Agyeman-Boadi further encouraged the Church to consider supporting the education sector.
“Many churches have contributed to education in Ghana. I am hopeful the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will one day build a school here in Kumasi.
On behalf of the Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, I extend our sincere gratitude,” he said.
Beneficiaries’ gratitude
Recipients expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Church for its support.
“This food package means so much to my children and me. Things have been very difficult this year, and I was worried about how we would celebrate Christmas.
Today, God has remembered us through this Church. I am truly grateful to everyone who made this possible,” one beneficiary said.
About Light the World
Light the World is a global Christmas-focused humanitarian initiative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, encouraging individuals to emulate the teachings and love of Jesus Christ through acts of charity, kindness, and service.
The initiative operates across continents, mobilizing resources and volunteers to uplift individuals, families, and communities.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints presents a special gift to the Ga Mantse, strengthening community ties and shared values
Hon. Ernest Adomako, MP for Okaikwei South delivering a message at the event in Accra
Distinguished dignitaries gracing the event at Jubilee Park in Adum-Kumasi, showing strong representation from traditional, religious, and local leadership
Nana Yaw Dasebre Dwamena, Amanse Abuoso Benkumhene delivering a speech at the event held at Jubilee Park, Adum, Kumasi
