The Christmas season has been increasingly secularized across the U.S. in recent years to the point that it has become noteworthy — particularly in leftist enclaves — to see public celebrations commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
For that reason, a recent display in New York City’s famed Times Square attracted widespread attention.
According to reports and as evidenced in a host of social media videos, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints reserved a massive video backdrop that utilized more than two dozen giant digital billboards to reflect the Nativity story.
It began nearly a month ago when the 27 screens in Times Square simultaneously switched off for a moment before revealing a stunning visual representation of Christ’s birth paired with the rendition of “Silent Night.”
As the church explained, the eye-catching presentation was part of the ongoing “Light the World” program, which has served to benefit various charitable organizations in recent years. The initiative is known for, among other things, the “Giving Machines,” which are a spin on traditional vending machines that allow individuals to donate food and other items to individuals in need.
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Quentin L. Cook celebrated the effort of faith leaders within the LDS church and other denominations who worked to organize the Times Square takeover.
“We want the world to know of the peace that comes from following Jesus Christ,” he wrote. “Jesus Christ is the light of the world. Let us follow Him as we try to light the world and share the light of Christ in our own small ways this Christmas season.”
A number of influential social media users also weighed in on the significance of the event.
Times Square, ALL BILLBOARDS SHUT OFF ⚠️
A Cyberattack?
END OF THE WORLD?
Nope!
For the first time ever, a breathtaking message of Jesus’s birth and love is displayed for Christmas 🙂
Remarkable to see the unexpected joy in people’s faces ⛪ pic.twitter.com/pMZ3n1a555
— Matt Wallace (@MattWallace888) December 23, 2023
“This year, for the first time, all 27 billboards of Times Square went dark in NYC, and then lit up with the story of the Birth of Christ,” wrote Human Events senior editor Jack Posobiec.
Individuals from around the world were on hand when the display began, including Guatemalan Nasario Martin, a Christian who was overcome by the public embrace of this crucial moment in the formation of his faith.
“I have never seen Jesus Christ in such a place before,” he explained.
