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Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began her ministry in northern Europe with a visit to the Ronald McDonald House in Dublin, Ireland. During her visit on November 1, 2024, she emphasized the importance of supporting families with sick children.
"One of the great humanitarian works that is happening here is this care for families who have sick children, who will have to leave their home and come and stay at the hospital in order to receive the care that they need," said President Freeman.
Alongside other church leaders, President Freeman also toured a new Ronald McDonald House site under construction near a children's hospital. The Church's donation will contribute furnishings and equipment for this facility.
Marian Carroll, chairperson of Ronald McDonald House Charities in Ireland, expressed gratitude: "Thank you for thinking of our families. You will be part of something quite amazing for generations to come."
In addition to her charitable activities, President Freeman engaged with local youth. She met Meka Strack, a young Latter-day Saint woman from Dublin who appreciated being heard by the church leader: "I really love that she took the time to listen to us."
President Freeman also attended a seminary graduation at a meetinghouse in Dublin on November 2. Seminary is an educational program for youth aged 14 through 18. Addressing graduates and their families, she stated: "Sometimes our light is the most powerful thing that you bring to a situation."
Michael Holton, one graduate preparing for his mission work, remarked on his achievement as significant in his youth experience.
President Freeman's ministry will continue across Scotland, Norway, and England. Reflecting on her role with young women and other youth within the church community, she noted: "I believe in them. I trust them. As we equip and empower them to rely on their testimony of Jesus Christ, they will share that testimony...with the entire world as disciples of Jesus Christ."
