Latter-day Saint Women Serve Children in Need

“We are going to do something extraordinary” stated Emma Smith in 1842, newly named president of Relief Society, the women’s organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Taking this statement to heart, Latter-day Saint women surrounding Accra served hostiplaized children at Korle Bu Pediatric Cancer Center by preparing and distributing 50 Christmas packages - one for each child in the unit - through the generosity of family, friends and others.

In addition, notes of encouragement to the young patients were written by children from the Primary - the Church's organization for children, ages 3 to 11. 

The faces of ill children brightened when Santa presented each child with his or her own special gift. 

Dr. Roa, a pediatric sprecialist told the women volunteers, "Your bright spirits have helped us all today. Children and parents' burden have been lightened a bit. Thank you for your Christ-like service."

The women are members of the Church's Relief Society. Their group is nicknamed DIMK, which stands for Daughters in My Kingdom. Originally established as a social club of Church members in 2010, it now provides service to people in need. Daughters in My Kingdom is the name of a  Relief Society manual, which states, “the purposes of Relief Society are to increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and provide relief by seeking out and helping those in need.”

Acting on its motto, "First observe, then serve," the group has sponsored a service project annually over the past three years. This years labor of love was performed on Boxing Day 2016, while many in Ghana observed an extended holiday. 

Nurses expressed appreciation for the service and invited the group to come back and share their enthusiasm anytime.