Follow the example of the Good Samaritan by treating one another with respect and civility — regardless of personal differences, Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve counseled members Saturday afternoon.
"If we are truly disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we will reach out with love and understanding to all of our neighbors at all times, particularly in times of need," Elder Ballard said.
Beware of preconceptions and assumptions — they can be dangerous and unfair.
"There are some of our members who may fail to reach out with friendly smiles, warm handshakes and loving service to all of their neighbors," Elder Ballard said. "At the same time there may be those who move into our neighborhoods who are not of our faith who come with preconceived negative perceptions about the Church and its members. Surely good neighbors should put forth every effort to understand each other and to be kind to one another regardless of religion, nationality, race or culture."
Elder Ballard said he had heard of members offending those of other faiths or leaving them out — especially in areas where Church members are in the majority.
"This kind of behavior is not in keeping with the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ."
Elder Ballard said parents should teach their children the "principle of inclusion" by not excluding others because of differences.
"While it's true we declare to the world that that fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth through the Prophet Joseph Smith and we urge our members to share their faith and testimonies with others, it has never been the policy of the Church that those who choose not to listen or accept our message should be shunned or ignored," he said. "Indeed, the opposite is true."
Church members understand they may be perceived by some as "peculiar people," Elder Ballard said. The Church's doctrines and principles are important. They should be embraced and cherished. Not everyone is going to accept the restored gospel. Still, the Church's doctrine is a doctrine of inclusion.
"Of all people on this earth, we should be the most loving, the kindest and the most tolerant because of this doctrine," he said.
Elder Ballard suggested three things Church members can do to avoid making their neighbors feel excluded.
"First, get to know your neighbors," he said. "Learn about their families, their work, their views. Get together with them, if they are willing, and do so without being pushy and without any ulterior motives."
Second, Church members should eliminate the phrases "non-members" and "non-Mormon" from their vocabularies, Elder Ballard said. "Such phrases can be demeaning and even belittling."
And third, he added, if neighbors become testy or frustrated because of some disagreement with the Church or a law the Church supports for moral reasons "don't suggest to them — even in a humorous way — that they should consider moving someplace else."
"In our communities we can and must work together in an atmosphere of courtesy, respect and civility," Elder Ballard said.