In a recent Facebook post that seemed to be full of both praise and admonition, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf shared the following:
As people from war-torn countries continue to flock to Europe by the thousands each month, I have been so impressed by the kindness that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have shown to these refugees who are facing tremendous trials.
This is not an easy situation, but members are reaching out in love to help ease heavy burdens. They are welcoming those who are suffering to their neighborhoods and inviting them into their homes. These members are following the Savior by showing Christlike love to those refugees who find themselves in desperate situations.
I am reminded of the great love that the residents of Quincy, Illinois, showed to Latter-day Saint refugees after they had been driven from Missouri in 1838. The 1,500 residents of Quincy took in more than 5,000 Latter-day Saint refugees during their time of great need during the bitter winter months of 1838–1839. What a blessing this was for those cold, tired, and desperate Latter-day Saints.
We are surrounded by such an astonishing wealth of light and truth. Surely, the Lord is pleased when we do what we can to help lighten the burdens of those around us who are not as fortunate.
Along with this text and testimony, he posted the following moving depiction of the pioneer experiences to which he was referring:
Jonathan AtkinsonMay 19, 2017
Sadly there are people in the Middle/Near East who have been refugees since 1948.... Sadly most people have forgotten them they are the seed of Abraham Christian/Moslem/Drew Palestinians I wonder if any one would say a Prayer for them!
BOB THOMPSONMay 19, 2017
Words from a prophet. We need to do more and that includes supporting them where we are and "taking them in". We cannot use the excuse that we can't help them until we have helped the homeless, veterans, seniors or whatever because we cannot choose. We in North America have the ability to do much more. When I speak with those who are afraid of refugees I ask have you spoken to one, have you had them in your home and your life. The answer is always no.