Adapted from a report by Catherine Mambwe, Council of Twelve Apostles
There are many who say, “O that we might see some good! Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord!” You have put gladness in my heart more than when their grain and wine abound. I will both lie down and sleep in peace; for you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety.
Across Field 3, I see God’s Spirit moving through communities, bringing new hope, healing, and connection. Our vision is to foster Christ-centered, mission-driven communities where people experience peace, justice, reconciliation, and the dignity of every person.
One of the most inspiring signs of this movement is the rise of young people and young families. They are not simply the future of the church—they are already helping bring renewal today. In many places where I serve, young adults are the ones reviving congregations, leading ministries, and creating spaces where others can belong. Their openness, energy, and desire for meaningful community are becoming a source of strength for the church.
New communities are also emerging in places where our presence was once limited. In urban and peri-urban areas such as Abak Town in Nigeria, Muzuzu in Malawi, and communities across Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, people are gathering in new ways. Informal settlements, growing cities, and changing neighborhoods are becoming places where faith communities are taking root.
In rural and underserved areas, ministry continues to adapt to local needs. Places like Luapula in Zambia and Kasenga, Mpweto, Lukonzolwe, Bukongolo, and Kashobwe in DRC are experiencing growth through lay leadership development, itinerant ministry, and compassionate service. The gospel is becoming visible through both spiritual formation and care for daily needs.
I see powerful examples of this among marginalized and vulnerable communities. In Lodwar, Kenya, women, refugees, and others experiencing hardship are forming strong fellowships and compassionate ministries. Here, the church becomes a place where people experience hope, justice, and belonging.
Digital communities are also opening new possibilities. Through WhatsApp groups, online teaching, and mobile ministry, people are connecting across distances and forming relationships that would not have been possible before.
Across borders—from Zambia and DRC, Kenya and Uganda, and areas near Angola, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique—migration and movement are creating opportunities for multilingual worship, shared leadership, and new partnerships.
What gives me hope is that these communities are increasingly locally led and sustainable. Microfinance groups, partnerships with other faith communities, and justice-focused ministries are emerging. When spiritual and social needs are addressed together, communities flourish.
Field 3 is experiencing dynamic growth. By empowering local leaders—especially young people and women—we are witnessing the birth of diverse, resilient communities carrying hope, reconciliation, and God’s mission forward.
Prayer Phrase
“a new community…is being born” (Doctrine and Covenants 164:5).
Spiritual Community
Meditate on a time when you experienced true belonging—a moment when someone welcomed you, listened to you, encouraged you, or reminded you that you were not walking the journey of faith alone. Prayerfully consider the qualities that help build a Christ-centered community: hospitality, compassion, forgiveness, patience, courage, joy, and a willingness to walk alongside one another. Offer a prayer of gratitude for the communities that have shaped you and a prayer of commitment to help create spaces where all people can experience the love, peace, and presence of Christ.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.