Susannah Thomas, International Service Community Chair, explains, “With our specialized knowledge and training, members of the Law Society are uniquely qualified to enrich the communities in which we live.”
Recognizing the need to help their communities, Law Society members across the globe participated in the 2025 Month of Service initiative, blessing the lives of countless individuals. Here is a small snapshot of the service rendered by our members in May.
Pro Bono Legal Services
At a legal clinic on May 17, members of the New Zealand Hamilton Chapter served a diverse group
Also offering pro bono services, the Peru Lima Chapter partnered with the Roble del Sur Foundation to organize a “Building Strong Families” event on May 15. Attorneys provided free legal counseling to more than 20 mothers on issues such as custody, child support, domestic violence, and property rights.
Civic Outreach
Humanitarian Service and Individual Efforts
While some chapters provided legal services and civic education, others focused on humanitarian
Service by individuals also positively impacted local communities. Law Society members reported efforts such as volunteering at an immigration clinic and mediating cases for the magistrate court.
Lightening Burdens
Guided by the Society’s mission to promote fairness and virtue through public service, JRCLS members often witness the positive impact of their efforts.
Jessica Rivas, a participant in the “Building Stronger Families” event in Lima, told organizers, “I’m leaving with clear answers that give me confidence.”
Attendees at the Philippines election workshop also provided meaningful feedback: “The leaders delivered a powerful reminder—that every vote matters. It was inspiring to see everyone united in protecting the future of our one and only Philippines.”
Outside collaborators with the Law Society chapters also recognize the value of these events. After seeing the importance of the work done and commitment shown by Law Society members at the Rio Grande do Norte Chapter’s recent event, the principal of the school hosting the event pledged support for future events. Similarly, because of the positive reception of “Building Strong Families,” the Lima chapter will continue to sponsor additional events across the city. The Mindanao Chapter is also encouraged by their efforts, as voters reported a generally smooth and peaceful process.
Service Benefits All
When Law Society members are service minded, they heed the promptings to help and are, in turn, blessed. This is apparent to Rigel Belleza, outgoing Philippines Student Chapter President and global Student Board member, who has felt honored to serve with JRCLS while obtaining her legal education:
In this work, you come to recognize the shared humanity that connects us all. Across nations and backgrounds, we are united by a common desire for justice, fairness, mercy, and meaningful service. Regardless of where we live or what system we operate under, we are all children of God—and every individual has the right to be protected, heard, and served.
Susannah Thomas led the Month of Service by quiet example. For her, it is not tracking service hours that matters, but manifesting God’s love through service: “As members of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society and as lawyers [and law students] of faith, one truth that unites us all around the world is that we serve others because we love them and love God.”
It is the Service Committee’s hope that this year’s theme, “More Joy in His Service,” inspires all Law Society members to become more service minded as we share our light, our love, and our joy of service throughout the year.
Contributors:
Shannon Howard (International Service Committee, Communications Liaison)
Susannah Thomas (International Service Committee Chair)
Joanna Christabelle L. Belleza (Philippines Communications Chair)
Rigel N. Belleza (Philippines Student Chapter President)
Jane MacDonald (New Zealand Hamilton Chapter Chair)
César Mora (Peru Lima Chapter Board Member)
Luiza Ruta (Brazil Area Communications Liaison)