To commemorate International Women’s Day, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Argentina held a “Women of Light” recognition ceremony to honor the contributions of three women who have made an impact in their communities. The event highlighted the service they provide to those around them.
Rabbi Silvina Chemen of the Bet El community. Cecilia Branco de di Lasio, member of the Focolare movement of the Catholic Church. and Sumaila Noor Korkut, executive director of the Aruba Center for Intercultural Dialogue, received the award on March 19.
According to the church’s Argentina newsroom, each church is united by the same purpose: to unite the community through faith, service and interaction.
During the event, Rabbi Chemen spoke about light.
“It takes a lot of effort to darken a room, like closing windows, turning off lights, and covering all spaces. But a small flame is enough to illuminate a room,” she said.
She challenged listeners to think about today’s society.
“We have been led to believe that darkness will triumph over light. But we have come here to testify again and again that light is not a utopia or an isolated religious statement. It is a responsibility,” she said.
Rabbi Chemen spoke about how the values of justice, love, compassion, and peace need to be shared with everyone, especially those who need a reason to keep moving forward.
Ms. Blanco spoke about the important role that women play in social change. Drawing from her social work experience, she added her own perspective on how this happens.
“We thought we were building a house…but then we realized we were building a house,” she said.
She also emphasized that love is an essential quality.
“Love is seeing the great in the small. It recognizes the invisible and turns it into hope.”
Korkut shared his thoughts on light and how it relates to people of all faiths.
“In Islam, we believe that light comes from God. We are not the source of light, but instruments of that light.” “That light is translated into acts of love, compassion, and service to others. To shine is to live in a way that shares this light,” she continued.
Jorgelina Benavidez, Regional Organization Advisor for the Church’s Latin America South region, opened the recognition ceremony.
“Every woman, in her unique capacity, has the ability to influence, uplift and transform those around her,” she said.
Elder Alan R. Walker, a General Authority Seventy and First Counselor in the South America Area Presidency, also offered several remarks. He concluded the meeting by inviting the women in attendance.
“The world needs your light, your faith, your strength, and your ability to serve. Your impact goes beyond what can be seen.”
The event was also attended by representatives of national and municipal religious affairs offices, diplomatic authorities, leaders and members of various religious denominations, and representatives from academic and social circles. They expressed how important this event is in strengthening dialogue and coexistence between different religions and backgrounds.
Chile
Latter-day Saints in Chile held a similar awards ceremony in March to honor Chilean Minister of Women and Gender Equality Judith Marin for her contributions to public service throughout her career, according to the church’s Chile Newsroom.
Elder Eduardo Gavarret, a General Authority Seventy and second counselor in the South America South Area Presidency, led the ceremony with his wife, Sister Norma Gavarret, and said the event helped demonstrate how Marin’s career has been marked by dedication to family, service, and community.
Mr. Marin expressed his gratitude for this recognition.
She said, “I appreciate this recognition. Working for all women in this country is a great responsibility.”
In her speech, she shared how important the role women play in society. Part of its important role is unity among women of different faiths, which helps brighten the community.
The event also highlighted the importance of interreligious dialogue and how it helps strengthen families and others in society.
The event, held in Chile, was also attended by government authorities, members of parliament, interfaith representatives and members of civil society.
