Celebrating Unity and Light: Highlights from the 2023 Light the World Dinner

On Friday, December 1, the European Union and International Affairs Office of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints played host to a distinguished gathering of ambassadors, diplomats, and interfaith friends at the 2023 Light the World dinner. The evening's highlight was the presence of the Elder Rubén V. Alliaud, General Authority Seventy and First Counselor in the Europe Central Area Presidency, along with his wife, Sister Fabiana Alliaud.

Before the dinner commenced, guests had the opportunity to engage with one another and connect with various Church representatives, including Elder and Sister Alliaud, Elder Joep and Sister Kirsty Boom (Europe Area Seventy and spouse), and President Daryl and Sister Monic Watson (Mission President and companion of the Belgium/Netherlands Mission), Elder Bruce and Sister Jean Bingham, former General Relief Society President. Additionally, representatives from the Family History and the Welfare and Self-Reliance departments of the Europe Central Area were present. Francesco Di Lillo, Director of the European Union and International Affairs Office of the Church, set the tone with his opening remarks.   

Elder Alliaud’s remarks centered around the evening’s theme ‘Light the World.’ He urged those in attendance to recognize the power they hold to bring light into the world and into the lives of God’s children. Emphasizing the universal nature of this responsibility, he stated, "You can't do anything without light," transcending religious and cultural boundaries and emphasizing the shared duty to serve and uplift others.

The musical introduction to Elder Alliaud's address featured a captivating performance by Elise Nicole Pelo and Nadia Daniels, both Church members from London, United Kingdom. Ms. Daniels showcased her talent with an original piano composition, seamlessly transitioning into renditions of "God Bless Us Everyone" by Alan Menken and "You Raise Me Up" by Josh Groban, beautifully sung by Ms. Pelo.

At the end of the evening, each guest received a carefully curated gift bag. Inside were tokens of appreciation, including the "50 Ways to Let Your Light Shine," a bookmark with a QR code allowing access to a selection of Christmas music by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, and chocolates.

This year’s Light the World dinner brought together ambassadors, diplomats, and friends from diverse countries and religious backgrounds. The event not only celebrated the power of unity but also underscored the universal importance of spreading light throughout the world.