3, 4 & 5 - Girls Camp
10 - Relief Society Evening Activity at 6:30. Jenny Venegas home – Dutch oven food and program
26 & 27 - Stake Mother & Daughter Outing will be held at Camp Atoka
27 - Seminary Opening Social
27 - Ogden South Singles (31+) Coordinating Council Area Activity. Food, Games, and Entertainment spotlighting Utah Old Time Fiddlers, Dinner at 6:00 p.m. with pioneer games and entertainment to Follow. Washington Terrace Bowery (3rd West in Washington Terrace)
28 - Ogden South Singles (31+) Coordinating Council Area Fireside will at 7:00 p.m. at the Old Post Chapel (at the intersection of Shadow Valley Drive and Old Post Road). The speaker is Sister Heidi S. Swinton, an award-winning author and screenwriter.
30 - Ward Dutch Oven Picnic- Camp Atoka at 6:30 p.m.
Monday, August 1, 2011
A Society of Holy Women
Eliza R. Snow, second Relief Society general president, taught: “Paul the Apostle anciently spoke of holy women. It is the duty of each one of us to be a holy woman. We shall have elevated aims, if we are holy women. We shall feel that we are called to perform important duties. No one is exempt from them. There is no sister so isolated, and her sphere so narrow but what she can do a great deal towards establishing the Kingdom of God upon the earth.”1
Sisters, we are not isolated nor is our sphere narrow. By accepting the gift of activity in Relief Society, we become part of what the Prophet Joseph described as a society “separate from all the evils of the world—choice, virtuous, and holy.”2
This society helps us strengthen our faith and grow spiritually by giving us leadership, service, and teaching opportunities. In our service a new dimension is added to our lives. We progress spiritually, and our sense of belonging, identity, and self-worth increases. We realize that the whole intent of the gospel plan is to provide an opportunity for us to reach our fullest potential.
Relief Society helps prepare us to receive the blessings of the temple, to honor the covenants we make, and to be engaged in the cause of Zion. Relief Society helps us increase our faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families, and seek out and help those in need.
The work of Relief Society is holy, and doing holy work creates holiness in us.
Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From the Scriptures
Exodus 19:5; Psalm 24:3–4; 1 Thessalonians 4:7; Titus 2:3–4; Doctrine and Covenants 38:24; 46:33; 82:14; 87:8; Moses 7:18
From Our History
Speaking to the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo, the Prophet Joseph emphasized holiness, explaining that as sisters became pure and holy, they would have a marked influence upon the world. He explained: “Meekness, love, purity—these are the things that should magnify you. … This Society … shall have power to command queens in their midst. … The kings and queens of the earth will come unto Zion, and pay their respects.” Relief Society sisters living their covenants command the respect not only of noble people, but “if you live up to your privileges,” Joseph promised the sisters, “the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.”3
As the sisters participated in the work of serving and saving others, they became personally sanctified. Lucy Mack Smith, the Prophet’s mother, shared the good Relief Society could accomplish: “We must cherish one another, watch over one another, comfort one another and gain instruction, that we may all sit down in heaven together.”4
What Can I Do?
1. How am I helping the sisters I watch over to cultivate and achieve “elevated aims”?
2. What am I doing to make my life “choice, virtuous, and holy”?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Sisters, we are not isolated nor is our sphere narrow. By accepting the gift of activity in Relief Society, we become part of what the Prophet Joseph described as a society “separate from all the evils of the world—choice, virtuous, and holy.”2
This society helps us strengthen our faith and grow spiritually by giving us leadership, service, and teaching opportunities. In our service a new dimension is added to our lives. We progress spiritually, and our sense of belonging, identity, and self-worth increases. We realize that the whole intent of the gospel plan is to provide an opportunity for us to reach our fullest potential.
Relief Society helps prepare us to receive the blessings of the temple, to honor the covenants we make, and to be engaged in the cause of Zion. Relief Society helps us increase our faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families, and seek out and help those in need.
The work of Relief Society is holy, and doing holy work creates holiness in us.
Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From the Scriptures
Exodus 19:5; Psalm 24:3–4; 1 Thessalonians 4:7; Titus 2:3–4; Doctrine and Covenants 38:24; 46:33; 82:14; 87:8; Moses 7:18
From Our History
Speaking to the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo, the Prophet Joseph emphasized holiness, explaining that as sisters became pure and holy, they would have a marked influence upon the world. He explained: “Meekness, love, purity—these are the things that should magnify you. … This Society … shall have power to command queens in their midst. … The kings and queens of the earth will come unto Zion, and pay their respects.” Relief Society sisters living their covenants command the respect not only of noble people, but “if you live up to your privileges,” Joseph promised the sisters, “the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.”3
As the sisters participated in the work of serving and saving others, they became personally sanctified. Lucy Mack Smith, the Prophet’s mother, shared the good Relief Society could accomplish: “We must cherish one another, watch over one another, comfort one another and gain instruction, that we may all sit down in heaven together.”4
What Can I Do?
1. How am I helping the sisters I watch over to cultivate and achieve “elevated aims”?
2. What am I doing to make my life “choice, virtuous, and holy”?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Happy Birthday!
1 - Iris McCrary
3 - Logan Jensen, Alissa Valletta
4 - Betty Adams
6 - Shaelynn Barnett, Marci Jensen, Lydia Chatelain
7 - Rachel Budge
12 - Maria Epperson
13 - Melanie Corbin
16 - Monica Jenkins
18 - Michelle Wilkinson
20 - Brandy Tucker
21 - Lynette Marsee
22 - Brook Fowers
23 - Julie Brewer, Jennifer Keyes
25 - Megan Brey
28 - Jeanette Pope
30 - Daniela Quintana
31 - Donna Kearney, Erin Wilson
Friday, July 1, 2011
Happy Birthday!
1 - Marcy Hooper, Caroline Jensen
2 - Bonnie Burnett
4 - Liberty Minor
7 - Katherine Jeanne Welch, Jamee Thompson
8 - Anna Martinez
11 - Barbara Kirchmann
12 - Jennifer Sandberg, Donna White
15 - Christina Sartor
16 - Patricia Smith
19 - Lesly Rollins
22 - Patricia Van Drimmelen
23 - Glenda Fay Winters, Kristalynn Gilgert
25 - Brandi Hurst
29 - Carol Brown, Rose Sutphen
31 - Roberta Moon
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Happy Birthday!
2 - Kathryn Landon
3 - Vivian Urbick
7 - Laurie Kurtz
8 - Tori Jensen, Francella Harding
9 - Angela Keys, Amy Levy
10 - Jeane Taylor
11 - Erica Muniz
12 - Lindsay Cain
13 - Carol McKinley, Fay Fakhraie
14 - Lyndee Bent
15 - Renee Keeney
16 - Brenda Dussol, Lenore Minton
18 - Breanne Carter
19 - Bonny Owen, Lacy Gordon
22 - Jaycee Tilby
24 - Rachelle Miller
25 - Shelley Child, Susan Burleson, Becky Mercier
30 - Shelley Thomas
announcements
4-5 - Lorin Farr Stake Conference
9 - Stake Lagoon Day
15 - Book Club at 6:30 at the church. We will be reading The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith.
Ward Community Garden is starting. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge (801) 689-2747 or Jenny Venegas at (801) 737-1590.
Contact Janis Mathews at (801) 645-6837 if you are interested in playing softball.
9 - Stake Lagoon Day
15 - Book Club at 6:30 at the church. We will be reading The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith.
Ward Community Garden is starting. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge (801) 689-2747 or Jenny Venegas at (801) 737-1590.
Contact Janis Mathews at (801) 645-6837 if you are interested in playing softball.
Strengthening Families through Temporal Self-Reliance
Study this material and, as appropriate, discuss it with the sisters you visit. Use the questions to help you strengthen your sisters and to make Relief Society an active part of your own life.09606_000_005
Developing self-reliance—the ability to care for ourselves and our families—is the responsibility of every sister. We become self-reliant as we learn to love work, as we seek inspiration to find the best ways to provide for ourselves, and as we work with family members to meet basic needs.
When we are self-reliant, we use our blessings and resources to prepare for and avoid problems. Self-reliance, however, is enhanced as we pray for the courage to meet with faith the challenges that will surely come. Self-reliance also enables us to keep our covenant to care for others.
In Relief Society, we are taught self-reliance principles and skills. Sisters can learn about budgeting, debt relief, employment qualifications, the scriptures and the gospel, teaching others to read and learn, technology, physical health, fitness, addiction prevention and recovery, social and emotional health, preventing illness, gardening, food production and storage, emergency preparedness, and many other things that will help us become self-reliant. 1
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, explains that “providing for ourselves and others is evidence that we are disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. … When [my mother-in-law] passed away suddenly last year, she left evidence of her self-reliant life. She had a current temple recommend and well-used scriptures and gospel study manuals. We lovingly divided up the pots, pans, and dishes with which she had prepared thousands of meals. She left us quilts she had made from old clothing. She believed in the old adage ‘Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.’ We saw the supply of food she had grown, preserved, and stored. Particularly touching were her little account books in which she faithfully recorded her expenditures over many years. Because she lived providently, she left some money she had saved for emergencies, and she left no debts! Most importantly, she had taught and inspired many others with the skills she had acquired during her faithful life.” 2
From the Scriptures
John 13:34–35; James 1:27; Mosiah 4:26; Doctrine and Covenants 29:34–35; 38:30; 44:6
From Our History
Relief Society sisters have always participated in the work of saving souls temporally and spiritually. Each week as the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo met, sisters reported on people in need. Donations of money, goods, talents, and time were dispersed to relieve the needy. This foundational work of relieving suffering has continued to be the work of Relief Society through the generations.
When the Saints arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, President Brigham Young (1801–77) counseled sisters to assist those in need and to learn skills that would allow them to take care of themselves. He said, “Learn to sustain yourselves; lay up grain and flour, and save it against a day of scarcity.” 3 Under the direction of the priesthood, Relief Society continues to teach self-reliance, to safeguard the family, and to encourage personal righteousness and acts of charity, the pure love of Christ.
What Can I Do?
1. How can I help my sisters and their families improve in temporal self-reliance?
2. How can I improve my own temporal self-reliance?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Developing self-reliance—the ability to care for ourselves and our families—is the responsibility of every sister. We become self-reliant as we learn to love work, as we seek inspiration to find the best ways to provide for ourselves, and as we work with family members to meet basic needs.
When we are self-reliant, we use our blessings and resources to prepare for and avoid problems. Self-reliance, however, is enhanced as we pray for the courage to meet with faith the challenges that will surely come. Self-reliance also enables us to keep our covenant to care for others.
In Relief Society, we are taught self-reliance principles and skills. Sisters can learn about budgeting, debt relief, employment qualifications, the scriptures and the gospel, teaching others to read and learn, technology, physical health, fitness, addiction prevention and recovery, social and emotional health, preventing illness, gardening, food production and storage, emergency preparedness, and many other things that will help us become self-reliant. 1
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, explains that “providing for ourselves and others is evidence that we are disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. … When [my mother-in-law] passed away suddenly last year, she left evidence of her self-reliant life. She had a current temple recommend and well-used scriptures and gospel study manuals. We lovingly divided up the pots, pans, and dishes with which she had prepared thousands of meals. She left us quilts she had made from old clothing. She believed in the old adage ‘Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.’ We saw the supply of food she had grown, preserved, and stored. Particularly touching were her little account books in which she faithfully recorded her expenditures over many years. Because she lived providently, she left some money she had saved for emergencies, and she left no debts! Most importantly, she had taught and inspired many others with the skills she had acquired during her faithful life.” 2
From the Scriptures
John 13:34–35; James 1:27; Mosiah 4:26; Doctrine and Covenants 29:34–35; 38:30; 44:6
From Our History
Relief Society sisters have always participated in the work of saving souls temporally and spiritually. Each week as the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo met, sisters reported on people in need. Donations of money, goods, talents, and time were dispersed to relieve the needy. This foundational work of relieving suffering has continued to be the work of Relief Society through the generations.
When the Saints arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, President Brigham Young (1801–77) counseled sisters to assist those in need and to learn skills that would allow them to take care of themselves. He said, “Learn to sustain yourselves; lay up grain and flour, and save it against a day of scarcity.” 3 Under the direction of the priesthood, Relief Society continues to teach self-reliance, to safeguard the family, and to encourage personal righteousness and acts of charity, the pure love of Christ.
What Can I Do?
1. How can I help my sisters and their families improve in temporal self-reliance?
2. How can I improve my own temporal self-reliance?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Announcments
8 - MOTHER’S DAY
3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 - Salsa canning - $1.10 each; $13.20 case/12
12 - RS Activity at 6:30pm at the church. Learn how to garden in containers, make a mini-terranium, start a herb garden and take home yummy soup mixes to eat. Eat hot soup while doing all the above. Contact Bonnie Burnett at (435) 668-7669 to sign up to make soup mixes. Child care will be available. We need empty 2 liter soda bottles. Please bring on Sunday to donate.
13 - Stake Blood Drive - 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the 770 – 15th Street building.
15 - Stake Youth Conference Training Fireside for young men/young women and their parents 6:00 p.m. at the Lorin Farr Stake Center. Permission slips will be collected or completed that night.
22 - Seminary Graduation will be held on Sunday, May 22nd at 6:00 p.m. at the Rock Cliff Stake Center.
24, 25, 26 - Spaghetti Sauce canning - $1.15 each; $13.80 case/12
25 - Book Club at 6:30 at the church. We will be reading Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
**Ward Community Garden is starting. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge (801) 689-2747 or Jenny Venegas at (801) 737-1590.
**Stake Basketball games have finished. Janis Mathews is looking to start up softball in May. Contact her if you are interested at (801) 645-6837.
June
4-5 - Lorin Farr Stake Conference
9 - Stake Lagoon Day
3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 - Salsa canning - $1.10 each; $13.20 case/12
12 - RS Activity at 6:30pm at the church. Learn how to garden in containers, make a mini-terranium, start a herb garden and take home yummy soup mixes to eat. Eat hot soup while doing all the above. Contact Bonnie Burnett at (435) 668-7669 to sign up to make soup mixes. Child care will be available. We need empty 2 liter soda bottles. Please bring on Sunday to donate.
13 - Stake Blood Drive - 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the 770 – 15th Street building.
15 - Stake Youth Conference Training Fireside for young men/young women and their parents 6:00 p.m. at the Lorin Farr Stake Center. Permission slips will be collected or completed that night.
22 - Seminary Graduation will be held on Sunday, May 22nd at 6:00 p.m. at the Rock Cliff Stake Center.
24, 25, 26 - Spaghetti Sauce canning - $1.15 each; $13.80 case/12
25 - Book Club at 6:30 at the church. We will be reading Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
**Ward Community Garden is starting. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge (801) 689-2747 or Jenny Venegas at (801) 737-1590.
**Stake Basketball games have finished. Janis Mathews is looking to start up softball in May. Contact her if you are interested at (801) 645-6837.
June
4-5 - Lorin Farr Stake Conference
9 - Stake Lagoon Day
Happy Birthday!
1 - Denece egbedrt
4 - Kathy Mason
5 - Venice Turner
6 - Laura Shaw, Linda Noorda, Monica Robinson
8 - Lisa Erickson
9 - Gayla Pengelly, Jessica Brady, Josette Whetton
14 - Diane Craghead, Ethel Puhl
15 - Melissa Mayberry, Carol Mortensen
16 - Heather Brooks, Candice Holmes, Laura Maki
17 - Judy Hultgren, sara Bills
18 - Cassadie Lee, Claudette Nielsen
20 - Laraine Gardiner, Francie Widdison
21 - Wanda Mills
22 - Leann Jackson
24 - Rebecca Morgan
29 - Janis Mathews
31 - Dione Jones
June
2 - Kathryn Landon
3 - Vivian Urbick
7 - Laurie Kurtz
Friday, April 1, 2011
Announcements
2 & 3 ~ General Conference
14 ~ RS Birthday Celebration at 6:30pm. Refreshments, child care and a musical program; Women at the Well.
16 ~ Ogden South Singles (+31) Pre-event Luncheon and Weber State Institute Spring Variety Show will be held at the Weber Heights Stake Center (1401 Country Hills Dr,~ North of Weber State’s basketball arena parking lot) from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Come and take time to visit and make new friends, then at 2:30 p.m. attend the Institute Variety Show at the Val A. Browning Center at WSU. Please purchase your tickets at the Institute (cost is $5.00, $4.00 for 60+), and purchase as soon as posible (at least 2 weeks in advance), in that the Variety Show sells out every year, and seats are on a first come basis. This activity and luncheon is being hosted by the Weber Heights and Weber Stakes. Please RSVP to your Ward or Stake singles representative for the luncheon by April 9th.
17 ~ Ogden South Singles (31+) Coordinating Committee Fireside will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Old Post Chapel (at the intersection of Shadow Valley Drive and Old Post Road). The speaker is Elder Ronald T. Halverson speaking on his experiences as the Area President over the South Pacific Area. This fireside is hosted by the Pleasant Valley Stake.
24 ~ EASTER
27 ~ Book Club meets at 6:30pm. We are reading "The Best of Times: A Dickens Inn Novel" by Anita Stansfield. For May we will be reading “Rebecca” by Daphne DuMaurier.
28 ~ The Relief Society’s Laurel Transition Activity will be held at 6:30 p.m. at
824 Washington Boulevard (Sister Bartholomew’s home).
Ward Community Garden will be starting soon. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge 801-689-2747 or Jenny Venegas at 801-737-1590.
Stake Women's Basketball at stake center every Thursday at 6pm
Upcoming in May: May 12th, 6:30at church RS activity -- learn how to garden in containers, make a mini-terranium, start a herb garden, take home yummy soup mixes to eat and eat hot soup while doing all the above. Child care will be available.
14 ~ RS Birthday Celebration at 6:30pm. Refreshments, child care and a musical program; Women at the Well.
16 ~ Ogden South Singles (+31) Pre-event Luncheon and Weber State Institute Spring Variety Show will be held at the Weber Heights Stake Center (1401 Country Hills Dr,~ North of Weber State’s basketball arena parking lot) from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Come and take time to visit and make new friends, then at 2:30 p.m. attend the Institute Variety Show at the Val A. Browning Center at WSU. Please purchase your tickets at the Institute (cost is $5.00, $4.00 for 60+), and purchase as soon as posible (at least 2 weeks in advance), in that the Variety Show sells out every year, and seats are on a first come basis. This activity and luncheon is being hosted by the Weber Heights and Weber Stakes. Please RSVP to your Ward or Stake singles representative for the luncheon by April 9th.
17 ~ Ogden South Singles (31+) Coordinating Committee Fireside will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Old Post Chapel (at the intersection of Shadow Valley Drive and Old Post Road). The speaker is Elder Ronald T. Halverson speaking on his experiences as the Area President over the South Pacific Area. This fireside is hosted by the Pleasant Valley Stake.
24 ~ EASTER
27 ~ Book Club meets at 6:30pm. We are reading "The Best of Times: A Dickens Inn Novel" by Anita Stansfield. For May we will be reading “Rebecca” by Daphne DuMaurier.
28 ~ The Relief Society’s Laurel Transition Activity will be held at 6:30 p.m. at
824 Washington Boulevard (Sister Bartholomew’s home).
Ward Community Garden will be starting soon. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge 801-689-2747 or Jenny Venegas at 801-737-1590.
Stake Women's Basketball at stake center every Thursday at 6pm
Upcoming in May: May 12th, 6:30at church RS activity -- learn how to garden in containers, make a mini-terranium, start a herb garden, take home yummy soup mixes to eat and eat hot soup while doing all the above. Child care will be available.
Happy Birthday!
1 - Grecia Godinez Pastrana
2 - Susan Wilson, Katie Welling
3 - Jennifer Kekacs
8 - Gayle Nath, Karen Driscoll
9 - Brittany Porter
10 - Brittany Dunn
11 - Lou Ann Blotter
12 - Balarie Blamires
13 - Lisa Fowers
14 - Kaitlin Leamaster, Teisha Olsen
15 - Cami Olsen
19 - Donna Haws
20 - Sarah Vee Okelberry
22 - Sadie Smith
23 - Stefanie Jenkins, Rita Manfull
24 - Darlene Hamblin
26 - Jodi King, Joyce Lundell
27 - Robyn Scott, Andrea Hyatt
29 - Melissa Stratman
30 - Brittany Bracey
The Purpose of Relief Society
When our presidency was first called, we were given some resources about the history of Relief Society. We studied them prayerfully, wanting to know the purpose of Relief Society and what the Lord would have us do. We learned that the purpose of Relief Society as established by the Lord is to organize, teach, and inspire His daughters to prepare them for the blessings of eternal life.
To fulfill this purpose of Relief Society, the Lord has commissioned each sister and the organization as a whole to:
*Increase in faith and personal righteousness.
*Strengthen families and homes.
*Provide relief by serving the Lord and His children.
We can do this work in the Lord's way only when we seek, receive, and act on personal revelation. Without personal revelation, we cannot succeed. If we heed personal revelation, we cannot fail. The prophet Nephi instructs us that the Holy Ghost will show us "all things what [we] should do" (2 Nephi 32:5). We must allow ourselves to be still enough and quiet enough to listen to the voice of the Spirit.
Sisters, we have a vital role to play in helping build the kingdom of God and preparing for the Lord's coming. In fact, the Lord's work cannot be accomplished without the help of His daughters. Because of that, the Lord expects us to increase our offering. He expects us to fulfill the purpose of Relief Society as never before.
~Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From the Scriptures
Deuteronomy 6:5–7; Luke 10:30–37; James 1:27; 2 Nephi 25:26; Mosiah 3:12–13
From Our History
At a June 9, 1842, meeting of the Relief Society, the Prophet Joseph Smith taught the sisters that their society was "not only to relieve the poor, but to save souls."1 This statement of a spiritual as well as a temporal purpose has characterized Relief Society throughout its history. In 1906 President Joseph F. Smith (1838–1918) taught: "[Relief Society] has not only to deal with the necessities of the poor, the sick and the needy, but a part of its duty—and the larger part, too—is to look after the spiritual welfare and salvation of the mothers and daughters of Zion; to see that none is neglected, but that all are guarded against misfortune, calamity, the powers of darkness, and the evils that threaten them in the world."2 In 2001 Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reiterated, "Every sister in this Church who has made covenants with the Lord has a divine mandate to help save souls, to lead the women of the world, to strengthen the homes of Zion, and to build the kingdom of God."3
Notes
1. Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:25.
2. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith (1998), 185.
3. M. Russell Ballard, "Women of Righteousness," Liahona, Dec. 2002, 39; Ensign, Apr. 2002, 70.
What Can I Do?
What inspiration have I received to help my sisters increase in faith and personal righteousness and strengthen their families and homes? What relief can I provide?
How will I use this message to strengthen my faith and increase my own commitment to personal righteousness?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
To fulfill this purpose of Relief Society, the Lord has commissioned each sister and the organization as a whole to:
*Increase in faith and personal righteousness.
*Strengthen families and homes.
*Provide relief by serving the Lord and His children.
We can do this work in the Lord's way only when we seek, receive, and act on personal revelation. Without personal revelation, we cannot succeed. If we heed personal revelation, we cannot fail. The prophet Nephi instructs us that the Holy Ghost will show us "all things what [we] should do" (2 Nephi 32:5). We must allow ourselves to be still enough and quiet enough to listen to the voice of the Spirit.
Sisters, we have a vital role to play in helping build the kingdom of God and preparing for the Lord's coming. In fact, the Lord's work cannot be accomplished without the help of His daughters. Because of that, the Lord expects us to increase our offering. He expects us to fulfill the purpose of Relief Society as never before.
~Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From the Scriptures
Deuteronomy 6:5–7; Luke 10:30–37; James 1:27; 2 Nephi 25:26; Mosiah 3:12–13
From Our History
At a June 9, 1842, meeting of the Relief Society, the Prophet Joseph Smith taught the sisters that their society was "not only to relieve the poor, but to save souls."1 This statement of a spiritual as well as a temporal purpose has characterized Relief Society throughout its history. In 1906 President Joseph F. Smith (1838–1918) taught: "[Relief Society] has not only to deal with the necessities of the poor, the sick and the needy, but a part of its duty—and the larger part, too—is to look after the spiritual welfare and salvation of the mothers and daughters of Zion; to see that none is neglected, but that all are guarded against misfortune, calamity, the powers of darkness, and the evils that threaten them in the world."2 In 2001 Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reiterated, "Every sister in this Church who has made covenants with the Lord has a divine mandate to help save souls, to lead the women of the world, to strengthen the homes of Zion, and to build the kingdom of God."3
Notes
1. Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:25.
2. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith (1998), 185.
3. M. Russell Ballard, "Women of Righteousness," Liahona, Dec. 2002, 39; Ensign, Apr. 2002, 70.
What Can I Do?
What inspiration have I received to help my sisters increase in faith and personal righteousness and strengthen their families and homes? What relief can I provide?
How will I use this message to strengthen my faith and increase my own commitment to personal righteousness?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Children Packet ideas for General Conference
This is not a pretty post, my links weren't working.. Sorry! But there are some fun ideas in this list! You just need to copy and paste them to your browser.
http://www.sugardoodle.net/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7399
http://2kidsandtiredconference.blogspot.com/2011/03/general-conference-activity-ideas-april.html
http://www.alittletipsy.com/2011/03/general-conference-coloring.html
http://lds.org/general-conference/children?locale=eng
http://www.sugardoodle.net/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7399
http://2kidsandtiredconference.blogspot.com/2011/03/general-conference-activity-ideas-april.html
http://www.alittletipsy.com/2011/03/general-conference-coloring.html
http://lds.org/general-conference/children?locale=eng
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Announcements
**Womens' Basketball every Thursday at 6pm at the stake center.**
5 ~ Breakfast Bunch 9am at IHOP on 12th
10 ~ RS Birthday Pary 6:30 at the church. Dinner, child care, program and more. Be sure to bring your purse!
20 ~ Youth Fireside will be at 7:00 p.m. at the Rock Cliff Stake Center.
23 ~ Book Club at the church 6:30. We will be discussing: Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti adn The Wave by Todd Strasser
27 ~ Ogden South Singles (31+) Coordinating Committee Fireside will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Old Post Chapel (at the intersection of Shadow Valley Drive and Old Post Road). The speaker is Brother Jacobs, Institute Teacher, speaking on “Presidents of the Church,” previously presented in October 2010.
Ward Community Garden will be starting soon. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge or Jenny Venegas.
Upcoming in April:
2 & 3 ~ General Conference
16 ~ Women of the Well musical program, 6:30 at the church
5 ~ Breakfast Bunch 9am at IHOP on 12th
10 ~ RS Birthday Pary 6:30 at the church. Dinner, child care, program and more. Be sure to bring your purse!
20 ~ Youth Fireside will be at 7:00 p.m. at the Rock Cliff Stake Center.
23 ~ Book Club at the church 6:30. We will be discussing: Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti adn The Wave by Todd Strasser
27 ~ Ogden South Singles (31+) Coordinating Committee Fireside will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Old Post Chapel (at the intersection of Shadow Valley Drive and Old Post Road). The speaker is Brother Jacobs, Institute Teacher, speaking on “Presidents of the Church,” previously presented in October 2010.
Ward Community Garden will be starting soon. If you are interested in joining, please contact Rachel Budge or Jenny Venegas.
Upcoming in April:
2 & 3 ~ General Conference
16 ~ Women of the Well musical program, 6:30 at the church
Happy Birthday!
2 - Victoria Fritz
3 - JoDee Keys
4 - Lorraine Vause, Candice Kunz
5 - Charlene Christensen, Kim Thorpe
7 - Jeanette Stones, Jennifer Keener
17 - Shamara Hartmann
19 - Lorrie Goldsberry
24 - Marcell Kearney, JoAnn Cordova, Liandra Dittmore
25 - Catherine Anderson
29- Lori Lucero, Michelle Elzinga, Joyce Boyce
31 - Lynette Love
Under the Priesthood and after the Pattern of the Priesthood
My dear sisters, how blessed we are! Not only are we members of the Church, but we are also members of Relief Society—"the Lord's organization for women."1 Relief Society is evidence of God's love for His daughters.
Doesn't your heart thrill as you recall the exciting beginnings of this society? On March 17, 1842, the Prophet Joseph Smith organized the sisters "under the priesthood after the pattern of the priesthood."2
To be organized "under the priesthood" gave sisters authority and direction. Eliza R. Snow, second Relief Society general president, taught that Relief Society "cannot exist without the Priesthood, from the fact that it derives all its authority and influence from that source."3 Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained, "The authority to be exercised by the officers and teachers of the Relief Society . . . was the authority that would flow to them through their organizational connection with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and through their individual setting apart under the hands of the priesthood leaders by whom they were called."4
To be organized "after the pattern of the priesthood" gave sisters sacred responsibilities. Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, explained: "We operate in the manner of the priesthood—which means that we seek, receive, and act on revelation; make decisions in councils; and concern ourselves with caring for individuals one by one. Ours is the priesthood purpose to prepare ourselves for the blessings of eternal life by making and keeping covenants. Therefore, like our brethren who hold the priesthood, ours is a work of salvation, service, and becoming a holy people."5
Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From the Scriptures
1 Corinthians 11:11; Doctrine and Covenants 25:3; 121:36–46
From Our History
During the construction of the Nauvoo Temple, a group of sisters desired to organize to support the building effort. Eliza R. Snow drafted bylaws for this new group. When she showed them to the Prophet Joseph, he responded: "Tell the sisters their offering is accepted of the Lord, and he has something better for them. . . . I will organize the women under the priesthood after the pattern of the priesthood."6 A short time later, the Prophet told the newly organized Relief Society: "I now turn the key to you in the name of God, and this Society shall rejoice, and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time."7 The sisters were expected to rise to a new level of holiness and to prepare for the priesthood ordinances soon to be administered in the temple.
What Can I Do?
How can I help the sisters I visit enjoy the blessings of Relief Society's sacred work?
What will I do this month to increase my ability to receive personal revelation?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Notes
1. Spencer W. Kimball, "Relief Society—Its Promise and Potential," Ensign, Mar. 1976, 4.
2. Joseph Smith, quoted in Sarah Granger Kimball, "Auto-biography," Woman's Exponent, Sept. 1, 1883, 51.
3. Eliza R. Snow, "Female Relief Society," Deseret News, Apr. 22, 1868, 81.
4. Dallin H. Oaks, "The Relief Society and the Church," Ensign, May 1992, 36.
5. Julie B. Beck, "Relief Society: A Sacred Work," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2009, 111.
6. Joseph Smith, quoted in Kimball, "Auto-biography," 51.
7. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 451.
Doesn't your heart thrill as you recall the exciting beginnings of this society? On March 17, 1842, the Prophet Joseph Smith organized the sisters "under the priesthood after the pattern of the priesthood."2
To be organized "under the priesthood" gave sisters authority and direction. Eliza R. Snow, second Relief Society general president, taught that Relief Society "cannot exist without the Priesthood, from the fact that it derives all its authority and influence from that source."3 Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained, "The authority to be exercised by the officers and teachers of the Relief Society . . . was the authority that would flow to them through their organizational connection with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and through their individual setting apart under the hands of the priesthood leaders by whom they were called."4
To be organized "after the pattern of the priesthood" gave sisters sacred responsibilities. Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, explained: "We operate in the manner of the priesthood—which means that we seek, receive, and act on revelation; make decisions in councils; and concern ourselves with caring for individuals one by one. Ours is the priesthood purpose to prepare ourselves for the blessings of eternal life by making and keeping covenants. Therefore, like our brethren who hold the priesthood, ours is a work of salvation, service, and becoming a holy people."5
Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From the Scriptures
1 Corinthians 11:11; Doctrine and Covenants 25:3; 121:36–46
From Our History
During the construction of the Nauvoo Temple, a group of sisters desired to organize to support the building effort. Eliza R. Snow drafted bylaws for this new group. When she showed them to the Prophet Joseph, he responded: "Tell the sisters their offering is accepted of the Lord, and he has something better for them. . . . I will organize the women under the priesthood after the pattern of the priesthood."6 A short time later, the Prophet told the newly organized Relief Society: "I now turn the key to you in the name of God, and this Society shall rejoice, and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time."7 The sisters were expected to rise to a new level of holiness and to prepare for the priesthood ordinances soon to be administered in the temple.
What Can I Do?
How can I help the sisters I visit enjoy the blessings of Relief Society's sacred work?
What will I do this month to increase my ability to receive personal revelation?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Notes
1. Spencer W. Kimball, "Relief Society—Its Promise and Potential," Ensign, Mar. 1976, 4.
2. Joseph Smith, quoted in Sarah Granger Kimball, "Auto-biography," Woman's Exponent, Sept. 1, 1883, 51.
3. Eliza R. Snow, "Female Relief Society," Deseret News, Apr. 22, 1868, 81.
4. Dallin H. Oaks, "The Relief Society and the Church," Ensign, May 1992, 36.
5. Julie B. Beck, "Relief Society: A Sacred Work," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2009, 111.
6. Joseph Smith, quoted in Kimball, "Auto-biography," 51.
7. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 451.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Announcements
Basketball every Thursday at 6pm at the stake center.
5th - 9am Breakfast Bunch IHOP on 12th.
9th - YW/YM Multi-Stake Fireside, 7:00 pm, Mound Fort Stake Center (15th & Washington Boulevard). Modest school dress is appropriate.
10th - 6:00PM Monthly Activity. Come learn how to use the church's new family search; if you have a laptop, please bring it as you can use the ward's free wi-fi to search. Make a family tree to hang in you house-- there will be a couple of options to choose from. Make a dry soup mix to take home and feed your family-- a few opions of soup flavor will be available. Child Care Provided!
12th - World Wide Training, Lorin Farr Stake Center.
15th - Book Club 6:30 (note new time) We are reading “Snow flower and the Secret Fan” by Lisa See. For Mar we will be reading “Boy Who Dared” by Susan Bartoletti & “The Wave” by Todd Strasser.
19th - Stake Relief Society Temple Session, Ogden Temple. Meet in the chapel at 8AM for the next available session. A light brunch will be served following the session at 824 Washington Boulevard. Please RSVP to Alaina Thomson if you are able to attend the brunch.
19th - Stake Temple Session. We will meet at 2:00PM in the study and will attend the next available session.
26th - Ward Temple Session for Ward Conference - 4:00 for 4:20 session. Followed by Ward Chili Cook off
26th - Single Adult Symposium, 9AM to 12PM, Lorin Farr Stake Center
27th - Lorin Farr 5th Ward Conference
5th - 9am Breakfast Bunch IHOP on 12th.
9th - YW/YM Multi-Stake Fireside, 7:00 pm, Mound Fort Stake Center (15th & Washington Boulevard). Modest school dress is appropriate.
10th - 6:00PM Monthly Activity. Come learn how to use the church's new family search; if you have a laptop, please bring it as you can use the ward's free wi-fi to search. Make a family tree to hang in you house-- there will be a couple of options to choose from. Make a dry soup mix to take home and feed your family-- a few opions of soup flavor will be available. Child Care Provided!
12th - World Wide Training, Lorin Farr Stake Center.
15th - Book Club 6:30 (note new time) We are reading “Snow flower and the Secret Fan” by Lisa See. For Mar we will be reading “Boy Who Dared” by Susan Bartoletti & “The Wave” by Todd Strasser.
19th - Stake Relief Society Temple Session, Ogden Temple. Meet in the chapel at 8AM for the next available session. A light brunch will be served following the session at 824 Washington Boulevard. Please RSVP to Alaina Thomson if you are able to attend the brunch.
19th - Stake Temple Session. We will meet at 2:00PM in the study and will attend the next available session.
26th - Ward Temple Session for Ward Conference - 4:00 for 4:20 session. Followed by Ward Chili Cook off
26th - Single Adult Symposium, 9AM to 12PM, Lorin Farr Stake Center
27th - Lorin Farr 5th Ward Conference
A Restoration of All Things
The Prophet Joseph Smith organized Relief Society as an essential part of the Church. As a presidency, we hope we can help you understand why Relief Society is essential in your life. We know that New Testament women showed faith in Jesus Christ and participated in His work. Luke 10:39 tells of Mary, who "sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word." In John 11:27 Martha bears witness of Christ: "She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world." Acts 9:36, 39 speaks of "a certain disciple named Tabitha, . . full of good works. . . And all the widows stood by. . . shewing the coats and garments which [she] made." Phebe, in Romans 16:1–2, was "a servant of the church" and "a succourer of many." These patterns of faith, testimony, and service continued in the latter-day Church and were formalized with the organization of Relief Society. Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, taught: "Just as the Savior invited Mary and Martha of New Testament times to participate in His work, women of this dispensation have an official commission to participate in the Lord's work. . . The organization of Relief Society in 1842 mobilized the collective power of the women and their specific assignments to build the Lord's kingdom." We accomplish our work as we focus on Relief Society's purposes: to increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and seek out and help those in need. I testify that Relief Society was divinely organized to assist in the work of salvation. Each Relief Society sister has an essential role to play in accomplishing this sacred work.
~ Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the
Relief Society general presidency.
From the ScripturesJoel 2:28–29; Luke 10:38–42; Ephesians 1:10
From Our HistorySister Julie B. Beck has taught that "we know through the Prophet Joseph Smith that Relief Society was a formal part of the Restoration." The process of restoration began with the First Vision in 1820 and continued "line upon line, precept upon precept" (D&C 98:12). When the Relief Society was formally organized on March 17, 1842, the Prophet taught the women about their essential place in the restored Church. He said, "The Church was never perfectly organized until the women were thus organized."
~ Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the
Relief Society general presidency.
From the ScripturesJoel 2:28–29; Luke 10:38–42; Ephesians 1:10
From Our HistorySister Julie B. Beck has taught that "we know through the Prophet Joseph Smith that Relief Society was a formal part of the Restoration." The process of restoration began with the First Vision in 1820 and continued "line upon line, precept upon precept" (D&C 98:12). When the Relief Society was formally organized on March 17, 1842, the Prophet taught the women about their essential place in the restored Church. He said, "The Church was never perfectly organized until the women were thus organized."
Happy Birthday!
1 - Mary Ann Peterson
2 - Melody Stuart
4 - Cynthia Ford, Carol Fuhriman
6 - Shannon Jeffords, Jann Keefer
8 - Jeanette Sandstrom, Rykki Neale
9 - Kit Garcia
10 - Jenifer Argyle, Monica Sparrow, Sharon Rosinski
11 - Marla Hamilton, Julie Fisher
12 - Erin Jeffords, Dawn Workman, Logan Stringfellow
14 - Ruth Fishburn
15 - Clela Madson, JamieWaite
19 - Elaine Barton, Leslie Owen
20 - Linsey Kunzler, Mellissa Kuns
24 - Pam Thompson, Gloria Mansfield
Mar.
2 - Victoria Fritz
3 - Jo Dee Keyes
4 - Lorraine Vause, Dandice Kunz
5 - Charlene Christensen, Kim Thorpe
7 - Jeanette Stoens, Jennifer Keener
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Announcements
* No Brunch Bunch in January. The next one will be Saturday, Feb 5th at 9am at the IHOP on 12th Street.
13 - All Focus Groups are at 6pm at the church. Child care will be provided.
** Learn how to watercolor paint
** Learn how to make bread in an hour
** Tie fleese blankets to donate to the women's shelter
** Hooks 'n Needles group will be working on individual projects.
Want to learn how to crochet or knit?? Come and learn. Needles and yarn can be provided.
19 - Book Club at 6pm at the church. We will be reading "Crocodile on the Sandbank" by Elizabeth Peters.
*Upcoming Relief Society Birthday Quarterly Activity: Thursday, February 10th at 6pm at the church. Program, dinner and child care provided. A trash-to-treasures table will also be set up.
*We are looking for the sheet music for "Women of the Well" by Kenneth Cope. If someone has a copy that we can borrow for our RS birthday celebration, please let Jenny Venegas know.
*Women's Basketball every Thursday at 6pm at the stake center (480 7th St.).
13 - All Focus Groups are at 6pm at the church. Child care will be provided.
** Learn how to watercolor paint
** Learn how to make bread in an hour
** Tie fleese blankets to donate to the women's shelter
** Hooks 'n Needles group will be working on individual projects.
Want to learn how to crochet or knit?? Come and learn. Needles and yarn can be provided.
19 - Book Club at 6pm at the church. We will be reading "Crocodile on the Sandbank" by Elizabeth Peters.
*Upcoming Relief Society Birthday Quarterly Activity: Thursday, February 10th at 6pm at the church. Program, dinner and child care provided. A trash-to-treasures table will also be set up.
*We are looking for the sheet music for "Women of the Well" by Kenneth Cope. If someone has a copy that we can borrow for our RS birthday celebration, please let Jenny Venegas know.
*Women's Basketball every Thursday at 6pm at the stake center (480 7th St.).
Happy Birthday!
1 - Nadine Durfee
5 - Myrna Benson
6 - Megan Jeppsen, Narlene Mathie
8 - Karla Strebel
10 - Sandra Mirza, Jackie Kirby
21 - Danielle Hodges
23 - Shirley Porter
26 - Betty Jeffs
27 - Julie Dortzbach, Jeanette Barnes
28 - Chelsea Bauer
29 - Heather Bowen, Ashley Olsen
30 - Sandy Stuart
31 - Elaine Maltby, Nikki Tonks
The History and Heritage of Relief Society
Eliza R. Snow recalled the Prophet Joseph Smith teaching that "although the name [Relief Society] may be of modern date, the institution is of ancient origin."
Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, visited Joseph Smith and, through him, restored the fulness of the gospel to the earth. Relief Society was part of that restoration. The organization of the Church was not complete until the sisters were organized.
In the coming months, each Visiting Teaching Message will give us the opportunity to learn more about the history of Relief Society and its part in the restored gospel. For many reasons, understanding our history is not only important but essential.
First, an understanding of our history inspires us to be the women of God we need to be. By following the examples of noble Latter-day Saint women, we can learn from the past how to face the future.
Second, our history teaches that the same principles that existed in the early Church are our foundational principles today. This knowledge and our purposes—to increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and help those in need—draw a connection between our past and our present.
Third, as we value our history, we can better share our spiritual heritage. President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, said: "You pass the heritage along as you help others receive the gift of charity. … The history of Relief Society is recorded in words and numbers, but the heritage is passed heart to heart."
Finally, understanding our history helps make us an effective part of the future of Relief Society. President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985) explained, "We know that women who have deep appreciation for the past will be concerned about shaping a righteous future." ~ Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From the Scriptures
Esther 9:28–29; Romans 16:1–2; Alma 37:8; Moroni 7:45–47
From Our History
"Relief Society is the Lord's organization for women." In his capacity as a prophet, Joseph Smith organized the Relief Society on March 17, 1842. The small, diverse group at that first meeting were dedicated women, similar to Relief Society sisters today. "The youngest were three teenagers, and the oldest, a woman in her fifties. Eleven of the women were married, two were widows, six were unmarried, and the marital status of one is unknown. Their education and backgrounds varied greatly, as did their economic circumstances. Their diversity would be magnified many times as the organization's membership continued to grow, but they were and would continue to be one."
What Can I Do?
What can I do to help the sisters I visit receive the gift of charity?
What can I begin to do this month to help shape a righteous future for myself? for my family? for others?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, visited Joseph Smith and, through him, restored the fulness of the gospel to the earth. Relief Society was part of that restoration. The organization of the Church was not complete until the sisters were organized.
In the coming months, each Visiting Teaching Message will give us the opportunity to learn more about the history of Relief Society and its part in the restored gospel. For many reasons, understanding our history is not only important but essential.
First, an understanding of our history inspires us to be the women of God we need to be. By following the examples of noble Latter-day Saint women, we can learn from the past how to face the future.
Second, our history teaches that the same principles that existed in the early Church are our foundational principles today. This knowledge and our purposes—to increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and help those in need—draw a connection between our past and our present.
Third, as we value our history, we can better share our spiritual heritage. President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, said: "You pass the heritage along as you help others receive the gift of charity. … The history of Relief Society is recorded in words and numbers, but the heritage is passed heart to heart."
Finally, understanding our history helps make us an effective part of the future of Relief Society. President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985) explained, "We know that women who have deep appreciation for the past will be concerned about shaping a righteous future." ~ Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From the Scriptures
Esther 9:28–29; Romans 16:1–2; Alma 37:8; Moroni 7:45–47
From Our History
"Relief Society is the Lord's organization for women." In his capacity as a prophet, Joseph Smith organized the Relief Society on March 17, 1842. The small, diverse group at that first meeting were dedicated women, similar to Relief Society sisters today. "The youngest were three teenagers, and the oldest, a woman in her fifties. Eleven of the women were married, two were widows, six were unmarried, and the marital status of one is unknown. Their education and backgrounds varied greatly, as did their economic circumstances. Their diversity would be magnified many times as the organization's membership continued to grow, but they were and would continue to be one."
What Can I Do?
What can I do to help the sisters I visit receive the gift of charity?
What can I begin to do this month to help shape a righteous future for myself? for my family? for others?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
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