Members of the Crooked River Ward received an unexpected and joyful surprise on Sunday, November 23, 2025, as Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Elder Michael Ortiz, an Area Seventy, joined them for sacrament meeting in Kearney. The leaders were in town as special guests for the Light the World Giving Machine unveiling at Kansas City’s Union Station and chose to worship with our local congregation before returning home.
During the meeting, Elder Stevenson shared a touching message about the Savior’s perfect love for the individual. Using the analogy of Japan’s Kansai International Airport—which has remarkably never lost a bag in 30 years—he reminded us that our Heavenly Father never wants any of His children to be ‘lost.’ Just as in the parable of the lost sheep, God seeks every one of us, and we have a sacred responsibility to minister to and uplift one another. After the service, Elder and Sister Stevenson and Elder and Sister Ortiz took the time to warmly greet and shake hands with the members.
The visit also included a significant historical stop, as shared by Brother Keith Bowen:
‘My wife, Jeri, and I had the special opportunity to spend time with Elder and Sister Stevenson at the historic Crooked River battlefield. As we stood on that sacred ground, we reflected on the faith, sacrifice, and resilience of the early Saints in the 1830s. We also enjoyed discussing our mutual interest in rare printings of the Book of Mormon. It was a privilege to feel the Spirit together and share our testimonies and love with Elder and Sister Stevenson, Elder Ortiz, and the others in our group. Understanding the history of the Church is truly a blessing.’
This Christmas season, the Giving Machines continue to be a beloved tradition in Kansas City and 126 cities worldwide, uniting communities to honor the birth of Jesus Christ by lifting those in need. It was truly a day filled with the Spirit, history, and a powerful reminder of God’s work among His people.