During the month of October, the European Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints highlighted the universality and importance of kindness in a campaign titled, “Remember to Be Kind.”
This series reminds people everywhere of the duty to treat each other lovingly and respectfully.
The campaign included eight short videos. The videos were released periodically; twice a week for the month of October, a new video was broadcast over social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.
Once released, the videos reached over hundreds of viewers and impacted many lives. While they are available to watch on multiple social media platforms, some favorite interactions took place on Facebook. Many individuals responded with a hearty, “Amen!” while others felt their hearts had been touched and commented, “Oh how kind, makes me cry,” and, “Love this. It made my day.”
“It is easy to turn on TV or go online and find countless examples of contention, conflict, and hostility, yet what we don’t always see is that there are many more people out there trying to do good through simple acts of kindness. These tend to get lost among the more sensational instances of negativity,” said Brian Cordray, Area Publishing Services Manager.
“That said, people are inspired to go and do likewise when they see others reaping the joy and blessings that come through kindness”, he added.
One video in particular reached 3.4 million people and received 1.5 million views. But taking a step back from the numbers, Cordray also stated, “Our Savior was the epitome of kindness and set the example for us when He commanded us to love our neighbor. That clearly includes the directive to be kind.”
One belief of the members of The Church of Jesus Christ is to follow Jesus Christ’s example by showing love for one another. In spreading messages of kindness, the Church aspires to inspire kindness around the world, starting within the home, and reaching to communities, cities, and countries across the globe.
The videos either highlighted teachings from Church leaders or simply demonstrated by example ways we can be more kind. These words from the President of the Church--Russell M Nelson--found in the video titled, “Personal Peacemakers,” summarize the overall theme:
“Peace is possible. We can learn to love our fellow human beings throughout the world.” The hope is to inspire not only members of the Church of Jesus Christ, but those of all faiths to feel an increase of love and kindness towards one another.
Now that the video series is available on the internet, the Church encourages viewers to take part in their call to action: Remember to Be Kind.
Links to all campaign videos:
A Change of Heart Through Kindness
Children Know Best
Kindness Can Change the World
Kindness Can Heal Wounds
Personal Peacemakers
Serve Like the Saviour
To Love One Another
United in Righteousness