The sense of belonging is a fundamental human need, and nowhere is this more crucial than in a faith community. In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), the idea of being one united body, striving toward a common goal, is deeply rooted in doctrine. Yet, as the Church grows and diversifies, it faces the challenge of ensuring that everyone—across generations, backgrounds, and experiences—feels that they truly belong.
Valerie and Patrick reflect on what it will take for the LDS Church to become a place where all members feel welcome, connected, and valued. They believe that by returning to Christ’s teachings of love and inclusion, the Church can become a vibrant body of Christ—one that embraces diversity and fosters true belonging.
Christ’s Example: A Model for Inclusion
Christ’s ministry was, at its core, one of radical inclusion. He reached out to the marginalized, the misunderstood, and the outcast, inviting all to come unto Him. Whether it was eating with sinners, healing the sick, or conversing with women and children—groups often overlooked in His society—Christ’s actions demonstrated that every individual has inherent worth and a place in His fold.
For the LDS Church to fully live up to its potential as a body of Christ, this principle of inclusion must be more than an ideal; it must become a lived reality. Too often, barriers—whether generational, cultural, or doctrinal—prevent members from feeling like they belong. But if we take seriously the teachings of Christ, we’ll begin to see every member as essential to the health and vitality of the community.
The Importance of Listening and Learning from One Another
One of the most powerful ways to foster belonging is by truly listening to each other. In a church with members from diverse backgrounds, generational differences, and varying life experiences, there is immense wisdom to be gained by opening up space for dialogue. This involves more than just hearing someone’s words; it means seeking to understand their heart.
Valerie and Patrick believe that when we learn how to love and listen better, we’ll create a more united church. Listening fosters empathy, and empathy builds connection. When we make the effort to understand those who might see the world differently from us, we bridge divides and cultivate a culture of belonging.
Welcoming All Generations
Intergenerational learning is key to a thriving church community. Too often, younger members feel unheard or undervalued, while older members may feel disconnected from the concerns of younger generations. This divide can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and disengagement.
But Christ’s teachings remind us that every generation has something to contribute. In the Gospels, Christ elevated children, encouraging others to learn from their innocence and humility. Today, the LDS Church has an opportunity to not only teach the rising generation but also to learn from their perspectives. By encouraging a culture where every member—young and old—feels heard, we can foster a more united community that draws strength from diversity.
Breaking Down Barriers
For the LDS Church to truly embody Christ’s teachings of inclusion, it must work actively to break down barriers. This includes:
- Generational divides: Encouraging dialogue and mutual respect between older and younger members, allowing both groups to feel valued.
- Cultural differences: Embracing the global diversity of the Church by honoring the unique experiences and traditions of members from around the world.
- Doctrinal rigidity: Creating space for differing perspectives within the bounds of faith, allowing members to wrestle with difficult questions without feeling alienated.
These barriers, while not always visible, can subtly prevent individuals from feeling that they truly belong. As a church, it is essential to recognize and address these divides with love and empathy.
A Vibrant Body of Christ
Ultimately, the goal is for the LDS Church to become a place where all members feel they belong—where no one is left out or made to feel less than. A church that lives out Christ’s teachings of love, inclusion, and belonging is a vibrant, thriving community. It’s a church where each person, from the “top” to the “bottom,” is seen as an integral part of the body of Christ.
Valerie and Patrick believe that if we learn to listen and love as Christ did, we will unlock the potential of the LDS Church to become this kind of community. By embracing diversity, breaking down barriers, and fostering intergenerational learning, the Church can become a place where all are welcome to grow, contribute, and belong.
Moving Forward
Creating a culture of belonging within the LDS Church will require intentional effort from every member. It will require humility, empathy, and a willingness to learn from those who are different from us. But as we strive to follow Christ’s example of inclusion and love, we can create a community where every person feels valued and connected—a church that truly reflects the vibrant body of Christ.
In this process, we will come closer to fulfilling our divine potential, both as individuals and as a church. And in doing so, we will create a space where all generations and all members can learn from one another, lifting and strengthening the entire body of Christ.