By Kelly J. Larson

Jesus emphasized that our actions and the fruits of our labor would be the true measure of our character. As a community often misunderstood or persecuted, we strive to define ourselves through acts of love, sharing and inviting others into our world.

From a young age, the concept of doing good is instilled in our community as children recite the Articles of Faith, encapsulating the beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Among these articles, the thirteenth holds a special place in my heart:
“13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.”

Within our church, a spirit of volunteerism permeates everything we do. Since November 2016, I’ve served as a media specialist reporting on news among Latter-day Saints in the Austin metropolitan area, covering nine stakes, each consisting of about seven or eight congregations, known as wards.

Numerous stories of collective goodness abound, from assisting at local food banks and donating blood, to cleaning cemeteries and making blankets for patients. (I’ve personally trimmed yards of royal blue, silky fabric, cut into infant and child-size capes for superhero day at the children’s hospital.) We come together to provide aid and support after weather emergencies or natural disasters, offer necessities and English lessons to refugees, sing and share cards at senior centers, and even host iftar dinners with our Muslim friends. The list of our shared acts of kindness goes on and on.

While showing up is a crucial step in service, the symphonies of good works require countless behind-the-scenes efforts. JustServe.org connects volunteers with local service projects, but finding these opportunities demands significant dedication. Many of these endeavors are led by individuals who work full-time jobs and have families to care for— they are true heroes making it all happen. It’s inspiring.

I feel immense pride witnessing people selflessly give their time and talents to serve God’s children. As Christians, our aim is to emulate Jesus Christ by loving and serving others, a stark contrast to the calamity often portrayed in the daily news.

One of the most celebrated stories I have written about was when our prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, announced construction of the Austin Texas Temple. Though not as grandiose as the iconic temples in Salt Lake City or Washington D.C., this future temple is momentous news for local Latter-day Saints, providing a much-needed sanctuary from the outside world.

Having experienced the joy when I married my husband in the Salt Lake Temple, I’m eager for a temple to be nearby to share with others, allowing everyone to experience its peacefulness and beauty, gaining a glimpse of its significance in performing sacred ordinances such as marriage and sealing families together forever.

Life often brings setbacks, unexpected challenges, sorrow, and suffering. One of the greatest trials I’ve endured is the estrangement of our dear child. The temple serves as a source of solace, helping me feel close to our Father in Heaven and surrounded by what feels like angels, granting comfort and strength to endure.

In the coming year or two, the Austin Texas Temple will stand tall, and I will extend a heartfelt invitation to everyone to visit our most cherished House of the Lord. My hope is for all to experience the profound peace within its hallowed walls, as I chronicle these lovely and praiseworthy experiences.