As visiting teachers, one of our purposes is to help strengthen families and homes. The sisters we visit should be able to say, “If I have problems, I know my visiting teachers will help without waiting to be asked.” In order to serve, we have a responsibility to be conscious of the needs of the sisters we visit. When we seek inspiration, we will know how to respond to the spiritual and temporal needs of each sister we are assigned to visit. Then, using our time, skills, talents, prayers of faith, and spiritual and emotional support, we can help give compassionate service during times of illness, death, and other special circumstances.1
Through the help of reports from visiting teachers, the Relief Society presidency identifies those who have special needs because of physical or emotional illness, emergencies, births, deaths, disability, loneliness, or other challenges. The Relief Society president then reports her findings to the bishop. Under his direction, she coordinates assistance.2
As visiting teachers we can have “great reason … to rejoice” because of “the blessing which hath been bestowed upon us, that we have been made instruments in the hands of God to bring about this great work” (Alma 26:1, 3).
From the Scriptures
Matthew 22:37–40; Luke 10:29–37; Alma 26:1–4; Doctrine and Covenants 82:18–19
From Our History
In the early years of the Church, membership was small and centralized. Members could respond quickly when someone was in need. Today our membership is over 14 million and is spread throughout the world. Visiting teaching is part of the Lord’s plan to provide help for all His children.
“The only system which could provide succor and comfort across a church so large in a world so varied would be through individual servants near the people in need,” said President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency.
“… Every bishop and every branch president has a Relief Society president to depend upon,” he continued. “She has visiting teachers, who know the trials and the needs of every sister. She can, through them, know the hearts of individuals and families. She can meet needs and help the bishop in his call to nurture individuals and families.”3
For more information, go to reliefsociety.lds.org.
What Can I Do?
1.
Am I using my gifts and talents to bless others?
2.
Do the sisters I watch over know that I am willing to help them when they have a need?
Showing posts with label Visiting Teaching. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Visiting Teaching. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Demonstrating Our Discipleship through Love and Service
Throughout His mortal life, Jesus Christ showed His love for others by ministering to them. He said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). He set the example and wants us to “succor those that stand in need of [our] succor” (Mosiah 4:16). He calls His disciples to work with Him in His ministry, giving them the opportunity to serve others and become more like Him.
Our service as visiting teachers will closely resemble the ministry of our Savior when we show our love for those we visit teach by doing the following:
• Remember their names and the names of their family members and become acquainted with them.
• Love them without judging them.
• Watch over them and strengthen their faith “one by one,” as the Savior did (3 Nephi 11:15).
• Establish sincere friendships with them and visit them in their homes and elsewhere.
• Care about each sister. Remember birthdays, graduations, weddings, baptisms, or other times that are meaningful to her.
• Reach out to new and less-active members.
• Reach out to the lonely or those in need of comfort.
From the Scriptures
3 Nephi 11; Moroni 6:4; Doctrine and Covenants 20:47
From Our History
“The New Testament includes accounts of women, named and unnamed, who exercised faith in Jesus Christ. … These women became exemplary disciples. … [They] journeyed with Jesus and His Twelve Apostles. They gave of their substance to assist in His ministry. After His death and Resurrection, [they] continued to be faithful disciples.”
Paul wrote of a woman named Phebe, who was “a servant of the church” (Romans 16:1). He asked the people to “assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many” (Romans 16:2). “The kind of service rendered by Phebe and other great women of the New Testament continues today with members of the Relief Society—leaders, visiting teachers, mothers, and others—who act as succorers, or helpers, of many.”
For more information, go to reliefsociety.lds.org.
What Can I Do?
1. How am I increasing my ability to nurture others?
2. What am I doing to ensure that the sisters I watch over know that I love them?
Our service as visiting teachers will closely resemble the ministry of our Savior when we show our love for those we visit teach by doing the following:
• Remember their names and the names of their family members and become acquainted with them.
• Love them without judging them.
• Watch over them and strengthen their faith “one by one,” as the Savior did (3 Nephi 11:15).
• Establish sincere friendships with them and visit them in their homes and elsewhere.
• Care about each sister. Remember birthdays, graduations, weddings, baptisms, or other times that are meaningful to her.
• Reach out to new and less-active members.
• Reach out to the lonely or those in need of comfort.
From the Scriptures
3 Nephi 11; Moroni 6:4; Doctrine and Covenants 20:47
From Our History
“The New Testament includes accounts of women, named and unnamed, who exercised faith in Jesus Christ. … These women became exemplary disciples. … [They] journeyed with Jesus and His Twelve Apostles. They gave of their substance to assist in His ministry. After His death and Resurrection, [they] continued to be faithful disciples.”
Paul wrote of a woman named Phebe, who was “a servant of the church” (Romans 16:1). He asked the people to “assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many” (Romans 16:2). “The kind of service rendered by Phebe and other great women of the New Testament continues today with members of the Relief Society—leaders, visiting teachers, mothers, and others—who act as succorers, or helpers, of many.”
For more information, go to reliefsociety.lds.org.
What Can I Do?
1. How am I increasing my ability to nurture others?
2. What am I doing to ensure that the sisters I watch over know that I love them?
Friday, June 1, 2012
Visiting Teaching — a Sacred Assignment
As visiting teachers, we have an important spiritual mission to fulfill. “The bishop, who is the ordained shepherd of the ward, cannot possibly watch over all of the Lord’s sheep at one time. He is dependent on inspired visiting teachers to help him.” Seeking and receiving revelation as to who should be assigned to watch over each sister is essential. Inspiration begins as members of the Relief Society presidency prayerfully discuss the needs of individuals and families. Then, with the bishop’s approval, the Relief Society presidency gives the assignment in a way that helps sisters understand that visiting teaching is an important spiritual responsibility. Visiting teachers sincerely come to know and love each sister, help her strengthen her faith, and give service when needed. They seek personal inspiration to know how to respond to the spiritual and temporal needs of each sister they visit. “Visiting teaching becomes the Lord’s work when our focus is on people rather than percentages. In reality, visiting teaching is never finished. It is more a way of life than a task.”
From the Scriptures
Matthew 22:36–40; John 13:34–35; Alma 37:6–7
From Our History
Eliza R. Snow, the second Relief Society general president taught, “I consider the office of a teacher a high and holy office.” She counseled visiting teachers “to be filled with the Spirit of God, of wisdom, of humility, of love” before they visited homes so they would be able to ascertain and meet spiritual needs as well as temporal ones. She said, “You may feel to talk words of peace and comfort, and if you find a sister feeling cold, take her to your heart as you would a child to your bosom and warm [her] up.” As we go forth in faith as the early Relief Society sisters did, we will have the Holy Ghost with us and be inspired to know how to help each sister we visit. “Let [us] seek for wisdom instead of power,” said Sister Snow, “and [we] will have all the power [we] have wisdom to exercise.”
What Can I Do?
1. How can I improve in my ability to fulfill my important responsibility as a visiting teacher?
2. As a visiting teacher, how can I help other sisters fulfill their responsibility as visiting teachers?
From the Scriptures
Matthew 22:36–40; John 13:34–35; Alma 37:6–7
From Our History
Eliza R. Snow, the second Relief Society general president taught, “I consider the office of a teacher a high and holy office.” She counseled visiting teachers “to be filled with the Spirit of God, of wisdom, of humility, of love” before they visited homes so they would be able to ascertain and meet spiritual needs as well as temporal ones. She said, “You may feel to talk words of peace and comfort, and if you find a sister feeling cold, take her to your heart as you would a child to your bosom and warm [her] up.” As we go forth in faith as the early Relief Society sisters did, we will have the Holy Ghost with us and be inspired to know how to help each sister we visit. “Let [us] seek for wisdom instead of power,” said Sister Snow, “and [we] will have all the power [we] have wisdom to exercise.”
What Can I Do?
1. How can I improve in my ability to fulfill my important responsibility as a visiting teacher?
2. As a visiting teacher, how can I help other sisters fulfill their responsibility as visiting teachers?
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Daughters in My Kingdom
We are daughters of our Father in Heaven. He knows us, loves us, and has a plan for us. Part of that plan includes coming to earth to learn to choose good over evil. When we choose to keep God’s commandments, we honor Him and acknowledge our identity as daughters of God. Relief Society helps us remember this divine heritage.
Relief Society and its history strengthen and support us. Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, said: “As daughters of God, you are preparing for eternal designations, and each of you has a female identity, nature, and responsibility. The success of families, communities, this Church, and the precious plan of salvation is dependent on your faithfulness. … [Our Heavenly Father] intended Relief Society to help build His people and prepare them for the blessings of the temple. He established [Relief Society] to align His daughters with His work and to enlist their help in building His kingdom and strengthening the homes of Zion.”
Our Father in Heaven has given us specific work to help build His Kingdom. He has also blessed us with the spiritual gifts we need to accomplish this specific work. Through Relief Society, we have opportunities to use our gifts to strengthen families, help those in need, and learn how to live as disciples of Jesus Christ.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, said of discipleship: “By patiently walking in the path of discipleship, we demonstrate to ourselves the measure of our faith and our willingness to accept God’s will rather than ours.”
Let us remember we are daughters of God and strive to live as His disciples. As we do so, we will help build God’s kingdom here on earth and become worthy to return to His presence.
From the Scriptures
Zechariah 2:10; Doctrine and Covenants 25:1, 10, 16; 138:38–39, 56; “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” (Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2010, 129)
From Our History
On April 28, 1842, the Prophet Joseph Smith said to the sisters in Relief Society: “You are now placed in a situation in which you can act according to those sympathies which God has planted in [you]. … If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.”
Recognizing the power of Relief Society to serve others and to help individuals increase in faith, Zina D. H. Young, third Relief Society general president, promised the sisters in 1893, “If you will dig in the depths of your own hearts you will find, with the aid of the Spirit of the Lord, the pearl of great price, the testimony of this work.”
What Can I Do?
1. How can I help my sisters reach their potential as daughters of God?
2. How can I apply in my life the counsel and warnings given to women in Doctrine and Covenants 25?
Relief Society and its history strengthen and support us. Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, said: “As daughters of God, you are preparing for eternal designations, and each of you has a female identity, nature, and responsibility. The success of families, communities, this Church, and the precious plan of salvation is dependent on your faithfulness. … [Our Heavenly Father] intended Relief Society to help build His people and prepare them for the blessings of the temple. He established [Relief Society] to align His daughters with His work and to enlist their help in building His kingdom and strengthening the homes of Zion.”
Our Father in Heaven has given us specific work to help build His Kingdom. He has also blessed us with the spiritual gifts we need to accomplish this specific work. Through Relief Society, we have opportunities to use our gifts to strengthen families, help those in need, and learn how to live as disciples of Jesus Christ.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, said of discipleship: “By patiently walking in the path of discipleship, we demonstrate to ourselves the measure of our faith and our willingness to accept God’s will rather than ours.”
Let us remember we are daughters of God and strive to live as His disciples. As we do so, we will help build God’s kingdom here on earth and become worthy to return to His presence.
From the Scriptures
Zechariah 2:10; Doctrine and Covenants 25:1, 10, 16; 138:38–39, 56; “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” (Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2010, 129)
From Our History
On April 28, 1842, the Prophet Joseph Smith said to the sisters in Relief Society: “You are now placed in a situation in which you can act according to those sympathies which God has planted in [you]. … If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.”
Recognizing the power of Relief Society to serve others and to help individuals increase in faith, Zina D. H. Young, third Relief Society general president, promised the sisters in 1893, “If you will dig in the depths of your own hearts you will find, with the aid of the Spirit of the Lord, the pearl of great price, the testimony of this work.”
What Can I Do?
1. How can I help my sisters reach their potential as daughters of God?
2. How can I apply in my life the counsel and warnings given to women in Doctrine and Covenants 25?
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Guardians of the Hearth
“You are the guardians of the hearth,” said President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) as he introduced “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” in the general Relief Society meeting in 1995. “You are the bearers of the children. You are they who nurture them and establish within them the habits of their lives. No other work reaches so close to divinity as does the nurturing of the sons and daughters of God.”
For almost 17 years now this proclamation has reinforced that our most significant responsibilities are centered in strengthening families and homes—no matter our current circumstances. Barbara Thompson, now second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, was in the Salt Lake Tabernacle when President Hinckley first read the proclamation. “That was a great occasion,” she remembers. “I felt the significance of the message. I also found myself thinking, ‘This is a great guide for parents. It is also a big responsibility for parents.’ I thought for a moment that it really didn’t pertain too much to me since I wasn’t married and didn’t have any children. But almost as quickly I thought, ‘But it does pertain to me. I am a member of a family. I am a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a niece, and a granddaughter. I do have responsibilities—and blessings—because I am a member of a family. Even if I were the only living member of my family, I am still a member of God’s family, and I have a responsibility to help strengthen other families.’”
Fortunately, we are not left alone in our efforts. “The greatest help,” says Sister Thompson, “we will have in strengthening families is to know and follow the doctrines of Christ and rely on Him to help us.”
From the Scriptures
Proverbs 22:6; 1 Nephi 1:1; 2 Nephi 25:26; Alma 56:46–48; Doctrine and Covenants 93:40
From Our History
“When Sister Bathsheba W. Smith served as the fourth Relief Society general president [from 1901 to 1910], she saw a need to strengthen families, and so she established mother education lessons for Relief Society sisters. The lessons included counsel on marriage, prenatal care, and child rearing. These lessons supported President Joseph F. Smith’s teachings about the Relief Society helping women in their roles at home:
“‘Wherever there is ignorance or at least a lack of understanding in regard to the family, duties of the family, with regard to obligations that should exist and that do rightfully exist between husband and wife and between parents and children, there this organization exists or is near at hand, and by the natural endowments and inspiration that belongs to the organization they are prepared and ready to impart instruction with reference to those important duties.’”
What Can I Do?
1. How can I help the sisters I watch over to strengthen families?
2. How can I be a righteous influence in my family?
For almost 17 years now this proclamation has reinforced that our most significant responsibilities are centered in strengthening families and homes—no matter our current circumstances. Barbara Thompson, now second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, was in the Salt Lake Tabernacle when President Hinckley first read the proclamation. “That was a great occasion,” she remembers. “I felt the significance of the message. I also found myself thinking, ‘This is a great guide for parents. It is also a big responsibility for parents.’ I thought for a moment that it really didn’t pertain too much to me since I wasn’t married and didn’t have any children. But almost as quickly I thought, ‘But it does pertain to me. I am a member of a family. I am a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a niece, and a granddaughter. I do have responsibilities—and blessings—because I am a member of a family. Even if I were the only living member of my family, I am still a member of God’s family, and I have a responsibility to help strengthen other families.’”
Fortunately, we are not left alone in our efforts. “The greatest help,” says Sister Thompson, “we will have in strengthening families is to know and follow the doctrines of Christ and rely on Him to help us.”
From the Scriptures
Proverbs 22:6; 1 Nephi 1:1; 2 Nephi 25:26; Alma 56:46–48; Doctrine and Covenants 93:40
From Our History
“When Sister Bathsheba W. Smith served as the fourth Relief Society general president [from 1901 to 1910], she saw a need to strengthen families, and so she established mother education lessons for Relief Society sisters. The lessons included counsel on marriage, prenatal care, and child rearing. These lessons supported President Joseph F. Smith’s teachings about the Relief Society helping women in their roles at home:
“‘Wherever there is ignorance or at least a lack of understanding in regard to the family, duties of the family, with regard to obligations that should exist and that do rightfully exist between husband and wife and between parents and children, there this organization exists or is near at hand, and by the natural endowments and inspiration that belongs to the organization they are prepared and ready to impart instruction with reference to those important duties.’”
What Can I Do?
1. How can I help the sisters I watch over to strengthen families?
2. How can I be a righteous influence in my family?
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Watchcare and Ministering through Visiting Teaching
“Charity [means] far more than a feeling of benevolence,” taught President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency. “Charity is born of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and is an effect of His Atonement.” For Relief Society sisters, visiting teaching can be charity in action, an important way to exercise our faith in the Savior.
Through visiting teaching, we provide watchcare by contacting each sister, sharing a gospel message, and seeking to know her and her family’s needs. “Visiting teaching becomes the Lord’s work when our focus is on people rather than percentages,” explains Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president. “In reality, visiting teaching is never finished. It is more a way of life than a task. Faithfully serving as a visiting teacher is evidence of our discipleship.”
As we provide consistent and prayerful watchcare, we learn how to best minister to and meet the needs of each sister and her family. Ministering can take many forms—some large and some not so large. “Often small acts of service are all that is required to lift and bless another: a question concerning a person’s family, quick words of encouragement, a sincere compliment, a small note of thanks, a brief telephone call,” taught President Thomas S. Monson. “If we are observant and aware, and if we act on the promptings which come to us, we can accomplish much good. … Countless are the acts of service provided by the vast army of Relief Society visiting teachers.”
From the Scriptures
John 13:15, 34–35; 21:15; Mosiah 2:17; Doctrine and Covenants 81:5; Moses 1:39
From Our History
In 1843, Church members in Nauvoo, Illinois, were divided into four wards. In July of that year, Relief Society leaders appointed a visiting committee of four sisters for each ward. The visiting committees’ responsibilities included assessing needs and collecting donations. The Relief Society used these donations to provide for the needy.
While visiting teachers no longer collect donations, they do retain the responsibility to assess needs—spiritual and temporal—and to work to meet those needs. Eliza R. Snow (1804–87), second Relief Society general president, explained: “A teacher … should surely have so much of the Spirit of the Lord, as she enters a house to know what spirit she meets in there. … Plead before God and the Holy Ghost to get [the Spirit] so that you will be able to meet that spirit that prevails in that house … and you may feel to talk words of peace and comfort, and if you find a sister feeling cold, take her to your heart as you would a child to your bosom and warm [her] up.”
What Can I Do?
1. What am I doing to help my sisters feel that I am a friend who loves and cares for them?
2. How can I become better at watching over and caring for others?
For more information, go to reliefsociety.lds.org.
Through visiting teaching, we provide watchcare by contacting each sister, sharing a gospel message, and seeking to know her and her family’s needs. “Visiting teaching becomes the Lord’s work when our focus is on people rather than percentages,” explains Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president. “In reality, visiting teaching is never finished. It is more a way of life than a task. Faithfully serving as a visiting teacher is evidence of our discipleship.”
As we provide consistent and prayerful watchcare, we learn how to best minister to and meet the needs of each sister and her family. Ministering can take many forms—some large and some not so large. “Often small acts of service are all that is required to lift and bless another: a question concerning a person’s family, quick words of encouragement, a sincere compliment, a small note of thanks, a brief telephone call,” taught President Thomas S. Monson. “If we are observant and aware, and if we act on the promptings which come to us, we can accomplish much good. … Countless are the acts of service provided by the vast army of Relief Society visiting teachers.”
From the Scriptures
John 13:15, 34–35; 21:15; Mosiah 2:17; Doctrine and Covenants 81:5; Moses 1:39
From Our History
In 1843, Church members in Nauvoo, Illinois, were divided into four wards. In July of that year, Relief Society leaders appointed a visiting committee of four sisters for each ward. The visiting committees’ responsibilities included assessing needs and collecting donations. The Relief Society used these donations to provide for the needy.
While visiting teachers no longer collect donations, they do retain the responsibility to assess needs—spiritual and temporal—and to work to meet those needs. Eliza R. Snow (1804–87), second Relief Society general president, explained: “A teacher … should surely have so much of the Spirit of the Lord, as she enters a house to know what spirit she meets in there. … Plead before God and the Holy Ghost to get [the Spirit] so that you will be able to meet that spirit that prevails in that house … and you may feel to talk words of peace and comfort, and if you find a sister feeling cold, take her to your heart as you would a child to your bosom and warm [her] up.”
What Can I Do?
1. What am I doing to help my sisters feel that I am a friend who loves and cares for them?
2. How can I become better at watching over and caring for others?
For more information, go to reliefsociety.lds.org.
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.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
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, April 1, 2011
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.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
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
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."
Saturday, January 1, 2011
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.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Our Responsibility to Participate in Temple and Family History Work
Over the centuries many people have died without knowledge of the gospel. Some of those people are your near and distant relatives. They are waiting for you to do the necessary research to link your families together and perform saving ordinances on their behalf.
Most of the temples of the world are not busy enough. The Lord has promised that your hearts would be turned to the fathers so that the earth would not be utterly wasted at His coming (see D&C 2:2-3).
There are personal blessings you receive as a result of participation in temple and family history work. One of these is the joy that you feel as you serve your ancestors. Another is that you are able to qualify for a temple recommend, which signifies your worthiness before the Lord. Those who are not worthy today of the privilege of having a recommend should be working with a bishop or branch president to qualify as soon as possible. Please don't be without this vital qualification. I testify that the Atonement is real and that sins can be forgiven upon proper repentance.
As we participate in temple and family history work, we are certain to have the Spirit to comfort us in our challenges and to guide us in important decisions. Temple and family history work is part of our work of providing relief, or service, to our own ancestors.
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From the Scriptures
Malachi 4:5-6; 1 Corinthians 15:29; 1 Peter 3:18-19; D&C 110:13-16; 128:24
From Our History
"The Prophet Joseph Smith said, 'The greatest responsibility in this world that God has laid upon us is to seek after our dead' (History of the Church, 6:313). From the beginning, Relief Society sisters have supported this great work. In Nauvoo in 1842, Sarah M. Kimball's desire to help the temple construction workers prompted a group of sisters to organize themselves so that they could serve more effectively. As they began to meet, the Prophet . . . organized the first Relief Society after the pattern of the priesthood. From that time on, the Relief Society sisters helped further the work on the Nauvoo Temple. . . .
"In 1855, eight years after the Saints first arrived in Utah, the Endowment House was established. Eliza R. Snow, who had been one of the original members of the first Relief Society and had preserved the records of that organization, was called by President Brigham Young in 1866 to be the general Relief Society president. She and other sisters were faithful workers in the Endowment House. Then, as the St. George, Logan, and Manti Temples were completed, these sisters traveled to each temple so they could do work for the dead there."1
What Can I Do?
How can I help my sisters search out their ancestors and perform temple ordinances for them? Consider the circumstances of each sister as you ponder how to meet her needs. You might consider that family history work can often strengthen new, returning, and less-active members.
When has temple and family history work comforted me in my challenges or guided me in important decisions?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Note
1. Mary Ellen Smoot, "Family History: A Work of Love," Ensign, Mar. 1999, 15.
Most of the temples of the world are not busy enough. The Lord has promised that your hearts would be turned to the fathers so that the earth would not be utterly wasted at His coming (see D&C 2:2-3).
There are personal blessings you receive as a result of participation in temple and family history work. One of these is the joy that you feel as you serve your ancestors. Another is that you are able to qualify for a temple recommend, which signifies your worthiness before the Lord. Those who are not worthy today of the privilege of having a recommend should be working with a bishop or branch president to qualify as soon as possible. Please don't be without this vital qualification. I testify that the Atonement is real and that sins can be forgiven upon proper repentance.
As we participate in temple and family history work, we are certain to have the Spirit to comfort us in our challenges and to guide us in important decisions. Temple and family history work is part of our work of providing relief, or service, to our own ancestors.
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From the Scriptures
Malachi 4:5-6; 1 Corinthians 15:29; 1 Peter 3:18-19; D&C 110:13-16; 128:24
From Our History
"The Prophet Joseph Smith said, 'The greatest responsibility in this world that God has laid upon us is to seek after our dead' (History of the Church, 6:313). From the beginning, Relief Society sisters have supported this great work. In Nauvoo in 1842, Sarah M. Kimball's desire to help the temple construction workers prompted a group of sisters to organize themselves so that they could serve more effectively. As they began to meet, the Prophet . . . organized the first Relief Society after the pattern of the priesthood. From that time on, the Relief Society sisters helped further the work on the Nauvoo Temple. . . .
"In 1855, eight years after the Saints first arrived in Utah, the Endowment House was established. Eliza R. Snow, who had been one of the original members of the first Relief Society and had preserved the records of that organization, was called by President Brigham Young in 1866 to be the general Relief Society president. She and other sisters were faithful workers in the Endowment House. Then, as the St. George, Logan, and Manti Temples were completed, these sisters traveled to each temple so they could do work for the dead there."1
What Can I Do?
How can I help my sisters search out their ancestors and perform temple ordinances for them? Consider the circumstances of each sister as you ponder how to meet her needs. You might consider that family history work can often strengthen new, returning, and less-active members.
When has temple and family history work comforted me in my challenges or guided me in important decisions?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Note
1. Mary Ellen Smoot, "Family History: A Work of Love," Ensign, Mar. 1999, 15.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Oct. Visiting Teaching Message
**The October 2010 Liahona and Ensign will be a special issue focusing entirely on temples. The issue will not contain a specific First Presidency Message or Visiting Teaching Message. Home and visiting teachers are encouraged to prayerfully select their message from the contents of this special issue.**
A Temple-Motivated People
By President Howard W. Hunter (1907–95)
Fourteenth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The temple is the great symbol of our membership
What a glorious thing it is for us to
have the privilege of going to the
temple for our own blessings. Then
after going to the temple for our own
blessings, what a glorious privilege to
do the work for those who have gone
on before us. This aspect of temple
work is an unselfish work. Yet whenever
we do temple work for other people,
there is a blessing that comes back
to us. Thus it should be no surprise to
us that the Lord does desire that His
people be a temple-motivated people.
It is the Lord Himself who, in His
revelations to us, has made the temple
the great symbol for members of the
Church. Think of the attitudes and
righteous behaviors that the Lord
pointed us toward in the counsel He
gave to the Kirtland Saints through the
Prophet Joseph Smith as they were preparing
to build a temple. This counsel
is still applicable:
“Organize yourselves; prepare
every needful thing; and establish a
house, even a house of prayer, a house
of fasting, a house of faith, a house of
learning, a house of glory, a house of
order, a house of God” (Doctrine and
Covenants 88:119). Are these attitudes
and behaviors indeed reflective of what
each of us desires and seeks to be?
All of our efforts in the Church lead to
the holy temple
All of our efforts in proclaiming the
gospel, perfecting the Saints, and
redeeming the dead lead to the holy
temple. This is because the temple
ordinances are absolutely crucial;
we cannot return to God’s presence
without them. Truly, the Lord desires
that His people be a temple-motivated people.
It would be the deepest desire of my
heart to have every member of the
Church be temple worthy. I would
hope that every adult member would
be worthy of—and carry—a current
temple recommend, even if proximity
to a temple does not allow immediate
or frequent use of it.
The temple is holy unto the Lord;
it should be holy unto us
Let us be a temple-attending and a
temple-loving people. Let us hasten to
the temple as frequently as time and
means and personal circumstances allow.
Let us go not only for our kindred
dead, but let us also go for the personal
blessing of temple worship, for the
sanctity and safety which is provided
within those hallowed and consecrated
walls. The temple is a place of beauty,
it is a place of revelation, it is a place of
peace. It is the house of the Lord.
It is holy unto the Lord.
It should be holy unto us.
Let us share with our children
the spiritual feelings we have in the
temple. And let us teach them more
earnestly and more comfortably the
things we can appropriately say about
the purposes of the house of the Lord.
Keep a picture of a temple in your
home that your children may see it.
Teach them about the purposes of the
house of the Lord. Have them plan
from their earliest years to go there and
to remain worthy of that blessing.
It is pleasing to the Lord when we go
worthily to the temple
It is pleasing to the Lord for our youth
to worthily go to the temple and
perform vicarious baptisms for those
who did not have the opportunity
to be baptized in life. It is pleasing
to the Lord when we worthily go to
the temple to personally make our
own covenants with Him and to be
sealed as couples and as families. And
it is pleasing to the Lord when we
worthily go to the temple to perform
these same saving ordinances for
those who have died, many of whom
eagerly await the completion of these
ordinances in their behalf.
To have the temple indeed be a
symbol unto us, we must desire it
to be so. We must live worthy to
enter the temple. We must keep the
commandments of our Lord. If we can
pattern our life after the Master, and
take His teaching and example as the
supreme pattern for our own, we will
not find it difficult to be temple worthy,
to be consistent and loyal in every walk
of life, for we will be committed to a
single, sacred standard of conduct and
belief. Whether at home or in the marketplace,
whether at school or long after
school is behind us, whether we are
acting totally alone or in concert with a
host of other people, our course will be
clear and our standards will be obvious.
The ability to stand by one’s principles,
to live with integrity and faith
according to one’s belief—that is what
matters. That devotion to true principle—
in our individual lives, in our
homes and families, and in all places
that we meet and influence other
people—that devotion is what God is
ultimately requesting of us. It requires
commitment—whole-souled, deeply
held, eternally cherished commitment
to the principles we know to be true
in the commandments God has given.
If we will be true and faithful to the
Lord’s principles, then we will always
be temple worthy, and the Lord and
His holy temples will be the great symbols
of our discipleship with Him.
Adapted from Ensign,
Oct. 1994, 2–5; Feb. 1995, 2–5
A Temple-Motivated People
By President Howard W. Hunter (1907–95)
Fourteenth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The temple is the great symbol of our membership
What a glorious thing it is for us to
have the privilege of going to the
temple for our own blessings. Then
after going to the temple for our own
blessings, what a glorious privilege to
do the work for those who have gone
on before us. This aspect of temple
work is an unselfish work. Yet whenever
we do temple work for other people,
there is a blessing that comes back
to us. Thus it should be no surprise to
us that the Lord does desire that His
people be a temple-motivated people.
It is the Lord Himself who, in His
revelations to us, has made the temple
the great symbol for members of the
Church. Think of the attitudes and
righteous behaviors that the Lord
pointed us toward in the counsel He
gave to the Kirtland Saints through the
Prophet Joseph Smith as they were preparing
to build a temple. This counsel
is still applicable:
“Organize yourselves; prepare
every needful thing; and establish a
house, even a house of prayer, a house
of fasting, a house of faith, a house of
learning, a house of glory, a house of
order, a house of God” (Doctrine and
Covenants 88:119). Are these attitudes
and behaviors indeed reflective of what
each of us desires and seeks to be?
All of our efforts in the Church lead to
the holy temple
All of our efforts in proclaiming the
gospel, perfecting the Saints, and
redeeming the dead lead to the holy
temple. This is because the temple
ordinances are absolutely crucial;
we cannot return to God’s presence
without them. Truly, the Lord desires
that His people be a temple-motivated people.
It would be the deepest desire of my
heart to have every member of the
Church be temple worthy. I would
hope that every adult member would
be worthy of—and carry—a current
temple recommend, even if proximity
to a temple does not allow immediate
or frequent use of it.
The temple is holy unto the Lord;
it should be holy unto us
Let us be a temple-attending and a
temple-loving people. Let us hasten to
the temple as frequently as time and
means and personal circumstances allow.
Let us go not only for our kindred
dead, but let us also go for the personal
blessing of temple worship, for the
sanctity and safety which is provided
within those hallowed and consecrated
walls. The temple is a place of beauty,
it is a place of revelation, it is a place of
peace. It is the house of the Lord.
It is holy unto the Lord.
It should be holy unto us.
Let us share with our children
the spiritual feelings we have in the
temple. And let us teach them more
earnestly and more comfortably the
things we can appropriately say about
the purposes of the house of the Lord.
Keep a picture of a temple in your
home that your children may see it.
Teach them about the purposes of the
house of the Lord. Have them plan
from their earliest years to go there and
to remain worthy of that blessing.
It is pleasing to the Lord when we go
worthily to the temple
It is pleasing to the Lord for our youth
to worthily go to the temple and
perform vicarious baptisms for those
who did not have the opportunity
to be baptized in life. It is pleasing
to the Lord when we worthily go to
the temple to personally make our
own covenants with Him and to be
sealed as couples and as families. And
it is pleasing to the Lord when we
worthily go to the temple to perform
these same saving ordinances for
those who have died, many of whom
eagerly await the completion of these
ordinances in their behalf.
To have the temple indeed be a
symbol unto us, we must desire it
to be so. We must live worthy to
enter the temple. We must keep the
commandments of our Lord. If we can
pattern our life after the Master, and
take His teaching and example as the
supreme pattern for our own, we will
not find it difficult to be temple worthy,
to be consistent and loyal in every walk
of life, for we will be committed to a
single, sacred standard of conduct and
belief. Whether at home or in the marketplace,
whether at school or long after
school is behind us, whether we are
acting totally alone or in concert with a
host of other people, our course will be
clear and our standards will be obvious.
The ability to stand by one’s principles,
to live with integrity and faith
according to one’s belief—that is what
matters. That devotion to true principle—
in our individual lives, in our
homes and families, and in all places
that we meet and influence other
people—that devotion is what God is
ultimately requesting of us. It requires
commitment—whole-souled, deeply
held, eternally cherished commitment
to the principles we know to be true
in the commandments God has given.
If we will be true and faithful to the
Lord’s principles, then we will always
be temple worthy, and the Lord and
His holy temples will be the great symbols
of our discipleship with Him.
Adapted from Ensign,
Oct. 1994, 2–5; Feb. 1995, 2–5
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Our Responsibility to Nurture the Rising Generation
From the Scriptures: Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4; Enos 1:1; Alma 53:20–21; 56:47; 57:27
Without nurturing, our rising generation could be in danger of becoming like the one described in Mosiah 26. Many youth didn't believe the traditions of their fathers and became a separate people as to their faith, remaining so ever after. Our rising generation could likewise be led away if they don't understand their part in Heavenly Father's plan.
So what is it that will keep the rising generation safe? In the Church, we teach saving principles, and those principles are family principles, the principles that will help the rising generation to form a family, teach that family, and prepare that family for ordinances and covenants—and then the next generation will teach the next and so on.
As parents, leaders, and Church members, we are preparing this generation for the blessings of Abraham, for the temple. We have the responsibility to be very clear on key points of doctrine found in the proclamation on the family. Motherhood and fatherhood are eternal roles and responsibilities. Each of us carries the responsibility for either the male or the female half of the plan.
We can teach this doctrine in any setting. We must speak respectfully of marriage and family. And from our example, the rising generation can gain great hope and understanding—not just from the words we speak but from the way we feel and emanate the spirit of family.
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From Our History
Addressing the sisters at the general Relief Society meeting on September 23, 1995, President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "The world we are in is a world of turmoil, of shifting values. Shrill voices call out for one thing or another in betrayal of time-tested standards of behavior." President Hinckley then went on to introduce to the sisters, the Church, and ultimately people everywhere "The Family: A Proclamation to the World."
In subsequent years this prophetic document has been translated into many languages and distributed to world leaders. It asks citizens and government leaders "to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."
The proclamation has become the foundation for Latter-day Saint beliefs about the family, a statement to which we can hold fast and know that by living its precepts, we are strengthening our families and homes.
What Can I Do?
How can I help my sisters use "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" to nurture the rising generation? You might consider sharing a copy of the proclamation and helping your sisters identify and mark those passages that would best teach key doctrines.
How can I nurture the rising generation? You might consider reaching out to members of your ward, branch, family, or community who could benefit from your attention and love.
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Without nurturing, our rising generation could be in danger of becoming like the one described in Mosiah 26. Many youth didn't believe the traditions of their fathers and became a separate people as to their faith, remaining so ever after. Our rising generation could likewise be led away if they don't understand their part in Heavenly Father's plan.
So what is it that will keep the rising generation safe? In the Church, we teach saving principles, and those principles are family principles, the principles that will help the rising generation to form a family, teach that family, and prepare that family for ordinances and covenants—and then the next generation will teach the next and so on.
As parents, leaders, and Church members, we are preparing this generation for the blessings of Abraham, for the temple. We have the responsibility to be very clear on key points of doctrine found in the proclamation on the family. Motherhood and fatherhood are eternal roles and responsibilities. Each of us carries the responsibility for either the male or the female half of the plan.
We can teach this doctrine in any setting. We must speak respectfully of marriage and family. And from our example, the rising generation can gain great hope and understanding—not just from the words we speak but from the way we feel and emanate the spirit of family.
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
From Our History
Addressing the sisters at the general Relief Society meeting on September 23, 1995, President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "The world we are in is a world of turmoil, of shifting values. Shrill voices call out for one thing or another in betrayal of time-tested standards of behavior." President Hinckley then went on to introduce to the sisters, the Church, and ultimately people everywhere "The Family: A Proclamation to the World."
In subsequent years this prophetic document has been translated into many languages and distributed to world leaders. It asks citizens and government leaders "to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."
The proclamation has become the foundation for Latter-day Saint beliefs about the family, a statement to which we can hold fast and know that by living its precepts, we are strengthening our families and homes.
What Can I Do?
How can I help my sisters use "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" to nurture the rising generation? You might consider sharing a copy of the proclamation and helping your sisters identify and mark those passages that would best teach key doctrines.
How can I nurture the rising generation? You might consider reaching out to members of your ward, branch, family, or community who could benefit from your attention and love.
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Our Responsibility to Be Worthy of Temple Worship
From the Scriptures
Isaiah 2:2–3; D&C 109:22–23; 110:8–10
"The covenants we make with the associated ordinances we receive in the temple become our credentials for admission into God's presence. These covenants elevate us beyond the limits of our own power and perspective. We make covenants to show our devotion to build up the kingdom. We become covenant people as we are placed under covenant to God. All the promised blessings are ours through our faithfulness to these covenants. . . .
"What can the women of the Church do to claim the blessings of the temple?
"Through His prophets, the Lord invites those who have not yet received the blessings of the temple to do whatever may be necessary to qualify to receive them. He invites those who have already received these blessings to return as often as possible to enjoy again the experience, to increase their vision and understanding of His eternal plan.
"Let us be worthy to have a current temple recommend. Let us go to the temple to seal our families eternally. Let us return to the temple as often as our circumstances will permit. Let us give our kindred dead the opportunity to receive the ordinances of exaltation. Let us enjoy the spiritual strength and the revelation we receive as we attend the temple regularly. Let us be faithful and make and keep temple covenants to receive the full blessings of the Atonement."1
Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From Our History
President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) taught that Relief Society grew out of sisters' desire to worship in temples:
"During the construction of the Kirtland Temple the women were called upon to grind their china into small particles to be mixed with the plaster used on the walls of the temple, which would catch the light of the sun and the moon and reflect that light to beautify the appearance of the building.
"In those times, when there was very little of money but an abundance of faith, the workmen gave of their strength and resources to the construction of the Lord's house. The women supplied them with food, the best they could prepare. Edward W. Tullidge reported that while the women were sewing the temple veils, Joseph Smith, observing them, said, 'Well, sisters, you are always on hand. The sisters are always first and foremost in all good works. Mary was first at the resurrection; and the sisters now are the first to work on the inside of the temple.' . . .
"Again in Nauvoo, when the temple was under construction, a few women joined together to make shirts for the workmen. It was out of these circumstances that twenty of them gathered on Thursday, 17 March 1842, in the upper room of the Prophet's store."2
What Can I Do?
What support can I offer to help my sisters prepare for and attend the temple?
How can I exemplify the heritage of the early sisters who sacrificed to receive temple blessings?
How can I claim the blessings of the temple?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Notes
1. Silvia H. Allred, "Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 113, 114.
2. Gordon B. Hinckley, " 'Ambitious to Do Good'," Ensign, Mar. 1992, 2.
Isaiah 2:2–3; D&C 109:22–23; 110:8–10
"The covenants we make with the associated ordinances we receive in the temple become our credentials for admission into God's presence. These covenants elevate us beyond the limits of our own power and perspective. We make covenants to show our devotion to build up the kingdom. We become covenant people as we are placed under covenant to God. All the promised blessings are ours through our faithfulness to these covenants. . . .
"What can the women of the Church do to claim the blessings of the temple?
"Through His prophets, the Lord invites those who have not yet received the blessings of the temple to do whatever may be necessary to qualify to receive them. He invites those who have already received these blessings to return as often as possible to enjoy again the experience, to increase their vision and understanding of His eternal plan.
"Let us be worthy to have a current temple recommend. Let us go to the temple to seal our families eternally. Let us return to the temple as often as our circumstances will permit. Let us give our kindred dead the opportunity to receive the ordinances of exaltation. Let us enjoy the spiritual strength and the revelation we receive as we attend the temple regularly. Let us be faithful and make and keep temple covenants to receive the full blessings of the Atonement."1
Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From Our History
President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) taught that Relief Society grew out of sisters' desire to worship in temples:
"During the construction of the Kirtland Temple the women were called upon to grind their china into small particles to be mixed with the plaster used on the walls of the temple, which would catch the light of the sun and the moon and reflect that light to beautify the appearance of the building.
"In those times, when there was very little of money but an abundance of faith, the workmen gave of their strength and resources to the construction of the Lord's house. The women supplied them with food, the best they could prepare. Edward W. Tullidge reported that while the women were sewing the temple veils, Joseph Smith, observing them, said, 'Well, sisters, you are always on hand. The sisters are always first and foremost in all good works. Mary was first at the resurrection; and the sisters now are the first to work on the inside of the temple.' . . .
"Again in Nauvoo, when the temple was under construction, a few women joined together to make shirts for the workmen. It was out of these circumstances that twenty of them gathered on Thursday, 17 March 1842, in the upper room of the Prophet's store."2
What Can I Do?
What support can I offer to help my sisters prepare for and attend the temple?
How can I exemplify the heritage of the early sisters who sacrificed to receive temple blessings?
How can I claim the blessings of the temple?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Notes
1. Silvia H. Allred, "Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 113, 114.
2. Gordon B. Hinckley, " 'Ambitious to Do Good'," Ensign, Mar. 1992, 2.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Strengthening Families and Homes
Strengthening at Every Opportunity
"Each of us is in a different family situation. Some families have a mother and father with children at home. Some couples no longer have children at home. Many members of the Church are single, and some are single parents. Others are widows or widowers living alone.
"No matter what our family looks like, each of us can work to strengthen our own families or help in strengthening others.
"[Once] I stayed in the home of my niece and her family. That evening before the children went to bed, we had a short family home evening and a scripture story. Their father told about the family of Lehi and how he taught his children that they must hold fast to the iron rod, which is the word of God. Holding fast to the iron rod would keep them safe and lead them to joy and happiness. If they should let go of the iron rod, there was danger of drowning in the river of dirty water.
"To demonstrate this to the children, their mother became the 'iron rod' that they must cling to, and their father played the role of the devil, trying to pull the children away from safety and happiness. The children loved the story and learned how important it is to hold fast to the iron rod. After the scripture story it was time for family prayer. . . .
"Scriptures, family home evening, and family prayer will strengthen families. We need to take every opportunity to strengthen families and support one another to stay on the right path." ~Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From the Scriptures
Genesis 18:19; Mosiah 4:15; D&C 93:40; Moses 6:55–58
From Our History
From the beginning Relief Society has had a charge to strengthen families and homes. The Prophet Joseph taught sisters at an early Relief Society meeting, "When you go home, never give a cross or unkind word to your husbands, but let kindness, charity and love crown your works henceforward."
In 1914 President Joseph F. Smith told Relief Society sisters, "Wherever there is ignorance or at least a lack of understanding in regard to the family, . . . there this organization exists or is near at hand, and by the natural endowments and inspiration that belongs to the organization they are prepared and ready to impart instruction with reference to those important duties."
What Can We Do?
*What ideas for strengthening families and homes will you share with your sisters? As you ponder their individual circumstances, the Spirit can bring ideas to your mind.
*What priorities can you change this month to better strengthen your own family and home?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
"Each of us is in a different family situation. Some families have a mother and father with children at home. Some couples no longer have children at home. Many members of the Church are single, and some are single parents. Others are widows or widowers living alone.
"No matter what our family looks like, each of us can work to strengthen our own families or help in strengthening others.
"[Once] I stayed in the home of my niece and her family. That evening before the children went to bed, we had a short family home evening and a scripture story. Their father told about the family of Lehi and how he taught his children that they must hold fast to the iron rod, which is the word of God. Holding fast to the iron rod would keep them safe and lead them to joy and happiness. If they should let go of the iron rod, there was danger of drowning in the river of dirty water.
"To demonstrate this to the children, their mother became the 'iron rod' that they must cling to, and their father played the role of the devil, trying to pull the children away from safety and happiness. The children loved the story and learned how important it is to hold fast to the iron rod. After the scripture story it was time for family prayer. . . .
"Scriptures, family home evening, and family prayer will strengthen families. We need to take every opportunity to strengthen families and support one another to stay on the right path." ~Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
From the Scriptures
Genesis 18:19; Mosiah 4:15; D&C 93:40; Moses 6:55–58
From Our History
From the beginning Relief Society has had a charge to strengthen families and homes. The Prophet Joseph taught sisters at an early Relief Society meeting, "When you go home, never give a cross or unkind word to your husbands, but let kindness, charity and love crown your works henceforward."
In 1914 President Joseph F. Smith told Relief Society sisters, "Wherever there is ignorance or at least a lack of understanding in regard to the family, . . . there this organization exists or is near at hand, and by the natural endowments and inspiration that belongs to the organization they are prepared and ready to impart instruction with reference to those important duties."
What Can We Do?
*What ideas for strengthening families and homes will you share with your sisters? As you ponder their individual circumstances, the Spirit can bring ideas to your mind.
*What priorities can you change this month to better strengthen your own family and home?
For more information, go to www.reliefsociety.lds.org.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Renewing Covenants through the Sacrament
Jesus Christ Instituted the Sacrament
"Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to his Apostles, saying, 'Take, eat' (Matt. 26:26). 'This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me' (Luke 22:19). In a similar manner he took the cup of wine, traditionally diluted with water, said a blessing of thanks for it, and passed it to those gathered about him, saying: 'This cup is the new testament in my blood,' 'which is shed . . . for the remission of sins.' 'This do in remembrance of me.' . . .
"Since that upper room experience on the eve of Gethsemane and Golgotha, children of the promise have been under covenant to remember Christ's sacrifice in this newer, higher, more holy and personal way."1
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
We Renew Our Baptismal Covenants through the Sacrament
"When we are baptized, we take upon ourselves the sacred name of Jesus Christ. Taking upon us His name is one of the most significant experiences we have in life. . . .
"Each week in sacrament meeting we promise to remember the atoning sacrifice of our Savior as we renew our baptismal covenant. We promise to do as the Savior did—to be obedient to the Father and always keep His commandments. The blessing we receive in return is to always have His Spirit to be with us."2
Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
"I was with an eight-year-old girl on the day of her baptism. At the end of the day she said with all confidence, 'I have been baptized for a whole day, and I haven't sinned once!' But her perfect day did not last forever, and I am sure she is learning by now, like we all learn, that as hard as we try, we do not always avoid every bad situation, every wrong choice. . . .
" . . . It is not possible to make real change all by ourselves. Our own willpower and our own good intentions are not enough. When we make mistakes or choose poorly, we must have the help of our Savior to get back on track. We partake of the sacrament week after week to show our faith in His power to change us. We confess our sins and promise to forsake them."3
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
Notes
1. Jeffrey R. Holland, "This Do in Remembrance of Me," Ensign, Nov. 1995, 67.
2. Robert D. Hales, "The Covenant of Baptism: To Be in the Kingdom and of the Kingdom," Liahona, Jan. 2001, 8; Ensign, Nov. 2000, 8.
3. Julie B. Beck, "Remembering, Repenting, and Changing," Liahona and Ensign, May 2007, 110–11.
Helps for Visiting Teaching
As you come to know a sister and her family, look for ways you might help her renew her covenants through the sacrament. If she does not attend sacrament meeting, could you invite her to attend or offer help for her to do so (transportation, assistance with children, a friend to sit by, and so on)?
Personal Preparation
Luke 22:19–20
1 Corinthians 11:23–28
3 Nephi 18:1–12
"Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to his Apostles, saying, 'Take, eat' (Matt. 26:26). 'This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me' (Luke 22:19). In a similar manner he took the cup of wine, traditionally diluted with water, said a blessing of thanks for it, and passed it to those gathered about him, saying: 'This cup is the new testament in my blood,' 'which is shed . . . for the remission of sins.' 'This do in remembrance of me.' . . .
"Since that upper room experience on the eve of Gethsemane and Golgotha, children of the promise have been under covenant to remember Christ's sacrifice in this newer, higher, more holy and personal way."1
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
We Renew Our Baptismal Covenants through the Sacrament
"When we are baptized, we take upon ourselves the sacred name of Jesus Christ. Taking upon us His name is one of the most significant experiences we have in life. . . .
"Each week in sacrament meeting we promise to remember the atoning sacrifice of our Savior as we renew our baptismal covenant. We promise to do as the Savior did—to be obedient to the Father and always keep His commandments. The blessing we receive in return is to always have His Spirit to be with us."2
Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
"I was with an eight-year-old girl on the day of her baptism. At the end of the day she said with all confidence, 'I have been baptized for a whole day, and I haven't sinned once!' But her perfect day did not last forever, and I am sure she is learning by now, like we all learn, that as hard as we try, we do not always avoid every bad situation, every wrong choice. . . .
" . . . It is not possible to make real change all by ourselves. Our own willpower and our own good intentions are not enough. When we make mistakes or choose poorly, we must have the help of our Savior to get back on track. We partake of the sacrament week after week to show our faith in His power to change us. We confess our sins and promise to forsake them."3
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
Notes
1. Jeffrey R. Holland, "This Do in Remembrance of Me," Ensign, Nov. 1995, 67.
2. Robert D. Hales, "The Covenant of Baptism: To Be in the Kingdom and of the Kingdom," Liahona, Jan. 2001, 8; Ensign, Nov. 2000, 8.
3. Julie B. Beck, "Remembering, Repenting, and Changing," Liahona and Ensign, May 2007, 110–11.
Helps for Visiting Teaching
As you come to know a sister and her family, look for ways you might help her renew her covenants through the sacrament. If she does not attend sacrament meeting, could you invite her to attend or offer help for her to do so (transportation, assistance with children, a friend to sit by, and so on)?
Personal Preparation
Luke 22:19–20
1 Corinthians 11:23–28
3 Nephi 18:1–12
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Seeking and Receiving Personal Revelation
How Can I Seek Personal Revelation?
"We prepare to receive personal revelation as the prophets do, by studying the scriptures, fasting, praying, and building faith. Faith is the key. Remember Joseph's preparation for the First Vision:
" 'If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God. . . .
" 'But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.' "1
Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
"Prayer is your personal key to heaven. The lock is on your side of the veil.
"But that is not all. To one who thought that revelation would flow without effort, the Lord said:
" 'You have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.
" 'But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.' "2
President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
How Can I Receive Personal Revelation?
"In its more familiar forms, revelation or inspiration comes by means of words or thoughts communicated to the mind (see Enos 1:10; D&C 8:2–3), by sudden enlightenment (see D&C 6:14–15), by positive or negative feelings about proposed courses of action, or even by inspiring performances, as in the performing arts. As President Boyd K. Packer, . . . President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, has stated, 'Inspiration comes more as a feeling than as a sound.' "3
Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
"The temple is a house of learning. Much of the instruction imparted in the temple is symbolic and learned by the Spirit. This means we are taught from on high. . . . Our understanding of the meaning of the ordinances and covenants will increase as we return to the temple often with the attitude of learning and contemplating the eternal truths taught. . . . Let us enjoy the spiritual strength and the revelation we receive as we attend the temple regularly."4
Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
Notes
1. "Personal Revelation: The Teachings and Examples of the Prophets," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 88.
2. "Personal Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise," Ensign, Nov. 1994, 59–60.
3. "Eight Reasons for Revelation," Liahona, Sept. 2004, 8; "Eight Ways God Can Speak to You," New Era, Sept. 2004, 4.
4. "Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 113, 114.
Helps for Visiting Teaching
As a visiting teacher, you can receive impressions of the Spirit as to the needs of your sisters and how to meet those needs. As you teach this message, share, as appropriate, any inspiration or help you have received regarding visiting teaching.
Personal Preparation
1 Samuel 3:10
1 Kings 19:11–12
Alma 5:46; 26:22
3 Nephi 19:19–23
D&C 8:2–3; 9:8–9; 88:63–64
"We prepare to receive personal revelation as the prophets do, by studying the scriptures, fasting, praying, and building faith. Faith is the key. Remember Joseph's preparation for the First Vision:
" 'If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God. . . .
" 'But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.' "1
Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
"Prayer is your personal key to heaven. The lock is on your side of the veil.
"But that is not all. To one who thought that revelation would flow without effort, the Lord said:
" 'You have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.
" 'But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.' "2
President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
How Can I Receive Personal Revelation?
"In its more familiar forms, revelation or inspiration comes by means of words or thoughts communicated to the mind (see Enos 1:10; D&C 8:2–3), by sudden enlightenment (see D&C 6:14–15), by positive or negative feelings about proposed courses of action, or even by inspiring performances, as in the performing arts. As President Boyd K. Packer, . . . President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, has stated, 'Inspiration comes more as a feeling than as a sound.' "3
Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
"The temple is a house of learning. Much of the instruction imparted in the temple is symbolic and learned by the Spirit. This means we are taught from on high. . . . Our understanding of the meaning of the ordinances and covenants will increase as we return to the temple often with the attitude of learning and contemplating the eternal truths taught. . . . Let us enjoy the spiritual strength and the revelation we receive as we attend the temple regularly."4
Silvia H. Allred, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency.
Notes
1. "Personal Revelation: The Teachings and Examples of the Prophets," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 88.
2. "Personal Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise," Ensign, Nov. 1994, 59–60.
3. "Eight Reasons for Revelation," Liahona, Sept. 2004, 8; "Eight Ways God Can Speak to You," New Era, Sept. 2004, 4.
4. "Holy Temples, Sacred Covenants," Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 113, 114.
Helps for Visiting Teaching
As a visiting teacher, you can receive impressions of the Spirit as to the needs of your sisters and how to meet those needs. As you teach this message, share, as appropriate, any inspiration or help you have received regarding visiting teaching.
Personal Preparation
1 Samuel 3:10
1 Kings 19:11–12
Alma 5:46; 26:22
3 Nephi 19:19–23
D&C 8:2–3; 9:8–9; 88:63–64
Monday, March 1, 2010
Strengthening Faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ through Personal Scripture Study
"When I was a new bride, . . . I was invited to a lunch for all of the Relief Society sisters in my ward who had read either the Book of Mormon or a short Church history book. I had become casual in my scripture reading, so I qualified to attend the luncheon by reading the short book because it was easier and took less time. As I was eating my lunch, I had a powerful feeling that though the history book was a good one, I should have read the Book of Mormon. The Holy Ghost was prompting me to change my scripture reading habits. That very day I began to read the Book of Mormon, and I have never stopped. . . . Because I started reading the scriptures daily, I have learned about my Heavenly Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and what I need to do to be like Them. . . .
" . . . Every woman can be a gospel doctrine instructor in her home, and every sister in the Church needs gospel knowledge as a leader and teacher. If you have not already developed the habit of daily scripture study, start now and keep studying in order to be prepared for your responsibilities in this life and in the eternities."
~Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
"A study of the scriptures will help our testimonies and the testimonies of our family members. Our children today are growing up surrounded by voices urging them to abandon that which is right and to pursue, instead, the pleasures of the world. Unless they have a firm foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ, a testimony of the truth, and a determination to live righteously, they are susceptible to these influences. It is our responsibility to fortify and protect them."
~President Thomas S. Monson.
"We want our sisters to be scholars of the scriptures. . . . You need an acquaintanceship with his eternal truths for your own well being, and for the purposes of teaching your own children and all others who come within your influence."
"We want our homes to be blessed with sister scriptorians—whether you are single or married, young or old, widowed or living in a family. . . . Become scholars of the scriptures—not to put others down, but to lift them up!"
~President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985)
Personal Preparation
John 5:39
2 Timothy 3:14–17
2 Nephi 9:50–51; 31:20; 32:3–5
D&C 138:1–11
" . . . Every woman can be a gospel doctrine instructor in her home, and every sister in the Church needs gospel knowledge as a leader and teacher. If you have not already developed the habit of daily scripture study, start now and keep studying in order to be prepared for your responsibilities in this life and in the eternities."
~Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
"A study of the scriptures will help our testimonies and the testimonies of our family members. Our children today are growing up surrounded by voices urging them to abandon that which is right and to pursue, instead, the pleasures of the world. Unless they have a firm foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ, a testimony of the truth, and a determination to live righteously, they are susceptible to these influences. It is our responsibility to fortify and protect them."
~President Thomas S. Monson.
"We want our sisters to be scholars of the scriptures. . . . You need an acquaintanceship with his eternal truths for your own well being, and for the purposes of teaching your own children and all others who come within your influence."
"We want our homes to be blessed with sister scriptorians—whether you are single or married, young or old, widowed or living in a family. . . . Become scholars of the scriptures—not to put others down, but to lift them up!"
~President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985)
Personal Preparation
John 5:39
2 Timothy 3:14–17
2 Nephi 9:50–51; 31:20; 32:3–5
D&C 138:1–11
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