Global Faith Leader, Russell M. Nelson shares a Message of Hope

Friday, November 20, 2020, Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints offered a message of hope and healing to the global community. The message came with a challenge to everyone in the world.

The challenge from Nelson began with, “I invite you—just for the next seven days—to turn social media into your own personal gratitude journal. Post every day about what you are grateful for, who you are grateful for, and why you are grateful. At the end of seven days, see if you feel happier and more at peace. Use the #GiveThanks.”

The next part of the challenge encouraged those of faith to offer daily prayers of gratitude.

Rod Roberts, president of the Marietta East Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints, which covers the region from Marietta up through Blue Ridge, shared, “Amidst so many challenges and division in our society, we can unite together as a community in gratitude. We would like to invite all in our community to join us this week to express gratitude for one another, for our experiences, for our triumphs and our struggles. I know that as we #GiveThanks together we will unite as a community and be inspired to reach out and lift one another’s burdens.”

The message comes at a time when many states are increasing COVID 19 restrictions. Those in the community who are at high-risk for complication due to the virus, are particularly susceptible to depression with the upcoming holidays.

“I think the #GiveThanks challenge is a really great opportunity to spread positivity on social media and within ourselves," said Canton 8th grader Lily Meredith. "Since I started doing this, I've really started noticing things I was taking for granted, and I've been feeling happier."