THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • July 2010

Into All the World, p. 38 A Tale of Three Families in Australia, p. 24 Sharing the Gospel without Being Defensive, p. 44 Spiritual Safety Tips for Frequent Travelers, pp. 54, 60 chapel tothe Church. See“To Fillthe Earth,” page38. baptized. Laterthat yearthey deededtheir GadfieldElm church, Allbutonewas eventually the UnitedBrethren. congregation: over600peoplewho had their formed own baptized inthispondonthe Benbowfarm. what had the tosay. missionary 13peoplewere Asaresult, then tojointhem invitedthe inhearing neighbors brothers teach William’s brother, John, andhisfamily. The Benbow Benbowtraveledtothe area and Brother Herefordshire William andAnnBenbow. converts recent ElderWoodruff inHanley,the England,where he Twelve Apostlesarrived met Benbow FarmandPond,byFrankMagleby They also introduced ElderWoodruffThey totheir alsointroduced former In March 1840,ElderWilford Woodruff of ofthe Quorum

Courtesy of First International Art Competition Contents July 2010 Volume 40 • Number 7

Features

9 The Journey Heather Bergevin A poet imagines the thoughts of a Jaredite woman on her voyage to a new land. 12 Dear Frieda Young adults write about the decision to stay morally clean. 38 To Fill the Earth As we follow our prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, who asked us to unite our faith and prayers “in behalf of those areas . . . where we are not allowed to share the gospel,” nations will open as they have in the past. 44 Sharing the Gospel with Confidence 4 Elder M. Russell Ballard Two keys for sharing the gospel without being defensive. Messages Our Homes, Our Families First Presidency Message 16 Finding a Home in the 4 Faithful Friends Gospel President Henry B. Eyring Rozelle Hastwell Hansen My family’s opposition to Visiting Teaching Message my baptism took me com- pletely by surprise. 7 Strengthening Families and Homes 18 Choose the Temple Richard M. Romney Couples in India share how they overcame unique On the cover Front: Dedication cultural challenges to be of Russia, by Emin sealed in the temple. 18 Zulfugarov. Back: Ready for the Covenant, by Erick Duarte. Living as Latter-day Saints 24 A Tale of Three Families Don L. Searle The stories of three Australian families show how the Lord builds and strengthens His Church by building and strengthening individuals.

July 2010 1 63 10

Teaching, Learning, Serving Departments

30 Recognizing Righteous Leadership We Talk of Christ Elder Paul E. Koelliker 8 Six keys to humble, effective leadership. he Can Heal Any Wound Sylvia Erbolato Christensen 34 A Work for Us to Do The turmoil I felt following the death of our son Russell T. Osguthorpe was indescribable. Could I ever feel joy again? The three essential elements of gospel instruction. 10 What We Believe By Study and by Faith Sexual Purity Blesses Our Lives Why chastity is an essential part of the 52 What Did the Pioneers Bring? gospel plan. Elder Stephen L. Richards The pioneers of the early Church displayed 33 Serving in the Church industry, devotion, wisdom, fidelity, character, Blessed by My Calling brotherhood, and love for family—principles Judith Castillo Martelo Jesus Christ taught. How serving in the Primary prepared me for my future. Gospel Solutions 66 Latter-day Saint Voices 54 Road Warriors and The gospel of Jesus Christ changes lives, blesses Strong Families families, and answers questions of the soul. Melissa Merrill How to narrow the distance 70 Small & Simple Things when work takes a family member away from home. 73 Family Home Evening Ideas news of the Church 60 Spiritual Safety Tips for 74 Frequent Travelers 79 In Other Church Magazines Todd Hansen Five ways to keep yourself 54 80 Until We Meet Again spiritually safe on any Fight, Flee, or Take the Blows? business trip. R. Val Johnson When faced with persecution, what options do Provident Living we have as disciples of Christ?

63 Investing in the Golden Years Coming in August Lisa Barton with Heather Stock • Teaching children from the scriptures There’s much more to preparing for old age than • Delivering an effective talk simply saving money. • Influencing youth through Mutual activities • Fostering ward unity

2 Ensign moreOnline Ensign Online An official magazine of The Church If you’re looking to get more from your Church magazine experience, check out additional of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints july 2010 Volume 40 • Number 7 features at ensign.lds.org. The First Presidency: The Reason for Temples Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf If you’d like to teach your family about the The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: importance of temples, or explain to a friend Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, why Latter-day Saints build temples, visit LDS Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, .org/temples. You’ll find a video explaining M. Russell Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, their purpose, answers to frequently asked David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, questions, and much more. D. Todd Christofferson, Neil L. Andersen Did You Know? Editor: Spencer J. Condie Advisers: Keith K. Hilbig, General conference was in April, but did Yoshihiko Kikuchi, Paul B. Pieper you know that general authorities regularly Managing Director: deliver other talks at CES firesides, Church- David L. Frischknecht Evaluation, Planning, and Editorial school devotionals, and other Church and Director: Vincent A. Vaughn civic events? You can find a repository of Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg these addresses at broadcast.lds.org. Managing Editor: R. Val Johnson Assistant Managing Editor: LaRene Porter Gaunt Senior Editors: Matthew D. Flitton, Larry Hiller, Michael R. Morris, Joshua J. Perkey Assistant Editor: Melissa Merrill • Finding employment Editorial Staff: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, • Changing careers Jenifer L. Greenwood, Adam C. Olson, • Selecting a school or study program Laurel Teuscher Editorial Intern: Diane M. Ferguson • Starting a business Senior Secretary: Faith S. Watson • Managing a small business Managing Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen • Deciding what to do following Art Director: Scott Van Kampen graduation from school Senior Designers: C. Kimball Bott, LDSjobs.org is a new Web site for people • Returning to the workforce Colleen Hinckley Design and Production Staff: searching for jobs, wanting to go to school, • Developing marketable skills Cali R. Arroyo, Collette Nebeker Aune, or looking to start or improve a small business. • Improving your financial situation Thomas S. Child, Eric P. Johnsen, Bishops, quorum or Relief Society leaders, • And much more Scott M. Mooy, Jane Ann Peters Prepress: Byron Warner and employment specialists will also find resources to help them help Church members. The site is available in English, Portuguese, Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick Distribution Director: Evan Larsen The site includes information about: and Spanish. © 2010 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) is published monthly by The Do You Have a Story to Tell? Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, The new Primary nursery manual, Behold Your at work in your life. On each submission, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, USA. Periodicals Postage Little Ones, was released in January 2009 and please include your name, address, telephone Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah. is a wonderful resource for parents and chil- number, e-mail address, and the name of your ward and stake (or branch and district). To change address: Send both old and dren preparing family home evening lessons. new address information to Distribution How has it made a difference in your family? Please submit articles through Services at the above address. Please allow Send us your success stories and tell us how ensign.lds.org, or send them to Ensign 60 days for changes to take effect. you have used it. Please label your submissions Editorial, 50 E. North Temple St., Rm. 2420, Copyright information: Text and visual “Nursery Manual,” limit text to 400 words, Salt Lake City, UT, 84150-0024, USA. We material in the Ensign may be copied for and submit it by August 20, 2010. regret that we cannot acknowledge receipt incidental, noncommercial church or home We also welcome submissions on other or return manuscripts. Authors whose work is use. Visual material may not be copied if restrictions are indicated in the credit line topics showing the gospel of Jesus Christ selected for publication will be notified. with the artwork. Copyright questions should be addressed to Intellectual Property Office, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Subscribe to OR renew the Ensign Magazine Lake City, UT 84150-0018 USA; e-mail: Online: Go to ldscatalog.com. By phone: Call 1-800-537-5971 [email protected]. to order using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt By mail: Send $10 U.S. check or money order to Distribution Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Canada Post Information: Publication Agreement #40017431 July 2010 3 First Presidency Message

By President Henry B. Eyring First Counselor in the First Presidency

Faithful Friends

ne of the great tributes the infirmities, borne all their trou- Savior can give is to call bles, and felt all their longings. Ous “friends.” We know that His motives are pure. He seeks He loves with a perfect love all of no recognition for Himself but His Heavenly Father’s children. Yet to give all glory to His Heavenly for those who have been faithful in Father. The perfect friend, Jesus their service with Him, He reserves Christ, is completely selfless in this special title. You remember the offering happiness to others. words from the 84th section of the Doctrine The perfect friend, Each of us who has made the baptismal and Covenants: “And again I say unto you, my Jesus Christ, is covenant has promised to follow His example friends, for from henceforth I shall call you completely selfless in to bear one another’s burdens as He would (see offering happiness to friends, it is expedient that I give unto you this Mosiah 18:8). others. We become commandment, that ye become even as my His friends as we In the next few days you will have many friends in days when I was with them, traveling serve others for Him. opportunities to be a friend for Him. It may to preach the gospel in my power” (D&C 84:77). be as you walk on a dusty road. It may be as We become His friends as we serve others you sit down in a railroad car. It may be as for Him. He is the perfect example of the kind you look for a place to sit in a Church con- of friend we are to become. He wants only what gregation. If you are watching, you will see is best for His Heavenly Father’s children. Their someone carrying a heavy burden. It may be happiness is His happiness. He feels their sor- a burden of sorrow or loneliness or resent- row as His own because He has paid the price ment. It may be visible to you only if you of all their sins, taken upon Himself all their have prayed for the Spirit to give you eyes

4 Ensign to see into hearts and have promised to lift up the hands bless us to feel what they feel. As we persist in our efforts to that hang down. serve them, we will more and more be given the gift of feel- The answer to your prayer may be the face of an old ing His love for them. That will give us courage and strength friend, one you have not seen in years but whose needs to reach out again and again in faithfulness. suddenly come into your mind and heart and feel as if And, in time and in eternity, we will feel the joy of they are your own. I’ve had that happen to me. Old friends being welcomed to the company of His faithful friends. have reached out to me across the miles and the years I pray for that blessing for all of us and for those we will to offer encouragement when only God could have told serve. ◼ them of my burden. Living prophets of God Teaching from This Message Teaching, No Greater Call states: “If arry A nderson t ions, by H arry have asked us to be faithful amily members are more likely to partic- you have Christlike love, you will be better friends to those who come Fipate meaningfully when they are asked prepared to teach the gospel. You will be into the Church as converts to look for something as they search the inspired to help others know the Savior and and to go to the rescue scriptures and the words of the prophets (see follow Him” (12). Identify from the article of those who have drifted Teaching, No Greater Call [1999], 55). As you principles that could help you be a better away. We can do it, and read the article, ask family members to iden- home teacher. Discuss these with your com- we will do it if we always tify principles that will help them be worthy panion, and prayerfully consider how to be remember the Savior. When to be called the Lord’s friend. “faithful friends” to those you serve. we reach out to give succor and to lift a burden, He reaches with us. He will lead

Photo illustration by John L uke; Go Ye Therefore, and Teach A ll N a Photo illustration us to those in need. He will

July 2010 5 First Presidency Message Children Jesus Christ,

He wants what Our Perfect He feels sorrow is best for us. Friend when we are sad or hurt. resident Eyring Psaid that Jesus is our perfect friend. Here are some ways He is happy that Jesus shows His He suffered for when we are perfect friendship our sins so we can happy. for us. return to Heavenly Father. een Marsh Marsh een ll i D

Being a Friend for Jesus President Eyring said we can become Jesus’s friend by being a friend to others for Him. These pictures show some of the ways we can be a friend. eth M. Whittaker, and and Whittaker, M. eth B Write the letter of the picture next to the sentence that a b arrett, arrett, B . .

describes the picture. T obert obert R We can invite someone to come back to church. is Luch, Luch, is We can be a friend to someone who is lonely. c d ll We can help someone who is sad. We can always remember Jesus. ustrations by Phy by ustrations ll Left: i Left: Youth New Guy By Matthew Okabe was having a hard time feeling like I fit in. My family had So I made my way to a table on the far side of the lunchroom I recently moved clear across the country. The ward we and ate my lunch. moved into had a large youth group, but this was the first Later that day during math class, I recognized a familiar face. time I would be the “new guy.” The worst part was that I had I had seen David at seminary that morning. He asked to see to go to a new school, and the thought immediately flashed my schedule and discovered that we both had the same lunch through my mind, “Who am I going to sit with at lunch?” period. “Hey, where were you at lunch today?” he said. Maybe I would see someone from church, but I didn’t want “I ate on the far side of the room,” I responded. to barge in on someone else’s lunch table, especially since I “Well, tomorrow come and sit with me at lunch,” he said. didn’t know if they would even want me there! I’m grateful for a loving Heavenly Father, who knows each The first day at school seemed to drag on forever. Finally of our needs and who answers each of our prayers. I’m also the lunch bell rang. As I slowly entered the lunchroom, I grateful for someone who was willing to extend a hand of prayed to Heavenly Father to help me find someone I knew. friendship. Something as simple as an invitation can make all I glanced around to see if I could recognize anyone. No one. the difference.

6 Ensign Visiting Teaching Message

Study this material, and as appropriate, discuss it Strengthening Families with the sisters you visit. Use the questions to help you strengthen your sisters and to make Relief Society an and Homes active part of your own life.

From the Scriptures: Genesis 18:19; Mosiah 4:15; What Can From Our History D&C 93:40; Moses 6:55–58 We Do? From the beginning Relief Society has had a charge to strengthen families and 1. What ideas for strengthening fam- homes. The Prophet Joseph taught sisters at Strengthening at Every Opportunity ilies and homes will an early Relief Society meeting, “When you “Each of us is in a different family situation. you share with your sisters? As you pon- go home, never give a cross or unkind word Some families have a mother and father with der their individual to your husbands, but let kindness, charity circumstances, the children at home. Some couples no longer have 2 Spirit can bring ideas and love crown your works henceforward.” children at home. Many members of the Church to your mind. In 1914 President Joseph F. Smith told are single, and some are single parents. Others 2. What priorities Relief Society sisters, “Wherever there is are widows or widowers living alone. can you change this ignorance or at least a lack of understanding month to better “No matter what our family looks like, each strengthen your own in regard to the family, . . . there this organi- of us can work to strengthen our own families or family and home? zation exists or is near at hand, and by the help in strengthening others. natural endowments and inspiration that For more information, belongs to the organization they are pre- “[Once] I stayed in the home of my niece and go to www.relief her family. That evening before the children went society.lds.org. pared and ready to impart instruction with reference to those important duties.” 3 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 dan- ger 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 sup- port one another to stay on the right path.” 1 Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency. obert Casey by R obert photo illustration

Notes 1. Barbara Thompson, “His Arm Is Sufficient,”Liahona ­ and Ensign­ , May 2009, 84. 2. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 482. 3. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith (1998), 186.

July 2010 7 We Talk of Christ

He Can Heal Any Wound

By Sylvia Erbolato Christensen t happened on December 16, 1991—our Christ plays in our existence and allow Him eighth wedding anniversary. On that day to be the source of strength I needed. Iour first son died as the result of a baby- I left our meeting still discouraged; his coun- sitter’s actions. He was only two and a half sel seemed so simple and yet so unattainable. months old. My mother felt hopeless as well since nothing The following months and years were she said to me seemed to help. I recall her say- clouded by sadness, anger, disappointment, ing, “Please have faith and hope in our Savior, I decided to and hopelessness. The personal turmoil that and allow time to heal your wounds.” take to heart overcame me is indescribable. Nothing any- In my personal journey to attain joy once the advice I had one said or did eased my pain. again, I decided to take to heart the advice I read many books and scriptures, but I had been given and find out what it truly been given and none of them satisfied my cry for answers. meant to put my faith in the Savior. Things find out what it I had the rare opportunity to counsel with didn’t change immediately. But day by day truly meant to Elder James E. Faust (1920–2007), then of the and year by year, with the help of prayer and put my faith in Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, because of a growing testimony, I came to know without the Savior. his friendship with my parents. (He met my a doubt that the Savior can heal our wounds. mother, Flavia, and her family while serving I realize that not everyone can have the his mission in Brazil.) I was certain Elder opportunity to meet with an Apostle, as I Faust would be able to comfort me. did. But everyone can—and does—have the I asked many questions while he opportunity to know the Savior and to cast his patiently listened. Elder Faust acknowl- or her burdens on Him. And yes, the presence edged that what I had experienced was of Jesus Christ in our lives can ease any pain. certainly painful and extremely difficult. He I know that having the Lord in our lives can shared several scriptures and talked about bring joy to our existence. He is our friend, the need to work through my grief and find our teacher, and an example of enduring total submission to the Lord’s will in order to the end. He truly endured all things, and to be reunited with my son again. He said, He knows what we are suffering (see Alma “Sylvia, this is about you now. I realize you 7:11–12). His Atonement has brought about the are worried about your son, but in reality, miracle of putting broken pieces back together you should be worried about yourself and in this life in preparation for the next. how to rebuild your life. It won’t be easy, I will always be grateful for Elder Faust’s but you can mend your heart through the and my mother’s words. They helped me Atonement of Jesus Christ.” realize that whatever my hardship may be, He then gave me a blessing that I would Jesus Christ is the one constant source of

be able to understand the vital role Jesus support and hope I have. ◼ of C . Harrison onroy o. l from Christ and the R i c h Young uler, by Heinric Hofmann, courtesy detai Left:

8 Ensign 

TheBy Heather Journey Bergevin (Ether 3:23–25)

I would not think alone to leave this fertile valley. I know the harvest here, know the seasons. I love the springing blossoms and my goats and chicks. But I place my hand, with my husband’s, in Thine, and together we board. By the light of Thy finger’s touch, I serve from food prepared before this journey as we toss below, above the waves. At night I hear Thy beasts singing against the bow, yet I am unsoothed by their hymns. In stone’s light I kneel with my loves, these few treasures come with me toward the land my countrymen declare does not, cannot exist. And yet,

ane ane we are driven, R wind tossed, over the horizon, beyond, and there, pushed by furious storm— There is our promise! There, our spring! From my earthen jar I take next year’s harvest, confident I too will blossom Courtesy M useum Of Chur c h H istroy an d art Courtesy by Walter Walter by Women From Certain Detail where planted by God’s hand.

July 2010 9 What We Believe

Sexual Purity Blesses Our Lives

hastity means being morally and of the sanctity of marriage when he clean in our thoughts, words, tempts us to believe that sexual intimacy and actions. This sexual purity outside of marriage is acceptable as long C 1 is “pleasing unto God.” Our Heavenly as a man and a woman are in love. This is Father has given us the sacred powers of not true. It is a serious sin that defiles the procreation for the purpose of bringing power God has given us to create life. 5 forth children and for the expression of Our Father in Heaven has com- love within marriage between a man and manded all of us to live the law of 1. You can decide now a woman. He has also given us the law chastity. The blessings for obeying this to be chaste and never of chastity to protect us from the damage commandment and the consequences waver. Some may feel that they can commit that comes from sharing physical intima- for breaking it are the same for each of sexual sins with the idea cies outside of marriage. us, regardless of our impulses, desires, that they will simply Heavenly Father has set clear bound- or sexual temptations. repent later. This attitude aries for chastity. He commands us not to If we have committed sexual sins, the shows irreverence for the have any sexual relations before we are Lord will forgive us if we truly repent. 6 Lord’s commandments married. After we are married, we are com- The despair of sin can be replaced with and a lack of understand- manded to be completely faithful to our the sweet peace of forgiveness. 7 ing of repentance and spouse. 2 If we break the law of chastity, As we keep ourselves sexually pure, righteousness. 9 we have committed a grievous sin. 3 The we will become more sensitive to the prophet Alma taught that sexual sins are Holy Ghost’s guidance and receive more serious than any other sins except strength, comfort, and protection. 8 murder or denying the Holy Ghost. 4 Satan makes a mockery of chastity obert Casey; Casey; obert R eishman; eishman; “ now ye not that your body is the L ana ana Ktemple of the Holy Ghost which is in L you, which ye have of God, and ye are ndersen; ndersen; not your own? A “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Photo illustrations by Welden C. C. Welden by illustrations Photo w R eier; and John L uke Jan Friis, © H enrik A ls; M atthe 10 Ensign 4. If you find yourself strug- gling with sexual tempta- tions, including feelings of 2. Through modesty in 3. Pornography is addictive same-gender attraction, you 5. If you have committed dress and appearance, you and destructive. It will rob can choose to resist those sexual transgressions, speak show God that you know you of your self-respect temptations. The Lord will with your bishop or branch your body is a sacred cre- and self-control and often “make a way to escape” president. He will help you ation from Him. Modesty leads to more serious sexual so that you will “be able to through the process of promotes chastity. 10 sins. 11 bear it.” 12 repentance. 13

6. If you have been a victim 7. If single and dating, of rape, incest, abuse, or treat your date with other sexual crimes, you are respect, plan constructive not guilty of sin. Your bishop activities, and refrain from or branch president can help conversations or activities guide you through the process that arouse sexual feelings. of emotional healing. 14 8. If married, be faithful to your spouse in thought, word, and action. 15 Flirting with others is not appropriate. Stay away from situations where temptation may develop. 16 ◼

Notes “We declare that God’s commandment 1. Jacob 2:7. 11. See Alma 39:9; 3 Nephi 2. See D&C 42:22. 12:28–30; D&C 42:23; 121:45. for His children to multiply and replenish 3. See Exodus 20:14; 12. 1 Corinthians 10:13; see also 1 Thessalonians 4:3. Genesis 39:1–12. the earth remains in force. We further 4. See Alma 39:5. 13. See Teachings of Presidents of 5. See 1 Corinthians 7:2–5. the Church: Spencer W. Kimball declare that God has commanded that 6. See Isaiah 1:18. (2006), 38, 41–42, 44; see 7. See D&C 58:42–43. Mosiah 26:29. the sacred powers of procreation are 8. For more information, see 14. See True to the Faith, “Abuse,” 7. For the Strength of Youth 15. See Ephesians 5:28; D&C to be employed only between man and (2001), 26–28; Gospel Principles 42:22–23. (2009), 225–32; and True to the 16. See 1 Thessalonians 5:22. woman, lawfully wedded as husband Faith (2004), “Chastity,” 29–33. 17. “The Family: A Proclamation 9. See Alma 42:30. to the World,” ­Liahona, Oct. and wife.” 17 10. See True to the Faith, 2004, 49; ­Ensign, Nov. 1995, “Modesty,” 107. 102.

July 2010 11  Dear Young adults write letters of counsel to a young adult woman who is questioning whether to Frieda move in with her boyfriend.

n a world of shifting values, staying true testimonies and real-life experiences to help to our standards is critical to spiritual her make the correct choice. Following are I survival. Sincerely committing ourselves excerpts from letters Frieda’s peers wrote and to honoring our covenants can strengthen us agreed to share. against temptation. Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Decide to Marry in the Temple Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of a efore my friend Erika* moved in with her decision that can help us stay true: “Joshua B boyfriend, who is not a member of the didn’t say choose you next year whom you Church, she assured her family that she’d stay will serve; he spoke of ‘this day,’ while there is close to the gospel. But since Erika got into still daylight and before the darkness becomes the situation, it is hard for her to get out. She more and more normal. (See Josh. 24:15.) . . . thinks it’s simply too painful and difficult to Act now, so that a thousand years from now, get back on the right track. when you look back at this moment, you can Unfortunately, I have many friends who, say this was a moment that mattered—this like Erika, have fallen away because they was a day of determination.” 1 thought they could stay in control of them- Frieda,* a young adult member of the selves even while living outside Church stan- Church in Europe, faces just such a moment dards. In reality, ignoring the guidelines makes of decision. She says she wants to be married it easier for Satan to gain control. in the temple someday, but she is contemplat- I learned from my friends’ experiences. ing moving in with her nonmember boyfriend. When I was 17, I decided to gain a rock-solid She plans to repent and return to Church testimony because I knew I’d need it if I activity after a few years and marry someone wanted to survive spiritually. Gaining a strong else in the temple, but for now, she says, she testimony and coming to know that Heavenly just wants to have a good time. Father has a plan for me are what saved me. Young adults in Scandinavia were invited to There is one thing I’m sure of: I’m determined write letters to Frieda. They didn’t know her to marry in the temple. The temple is the only

real name or where she lived, but they shared way to true happiness and the only way we by John L uke; background © S hambhala Publications Photo illustration

12 Ensign 

f you and your boyfriend are so crazy I about each other, take him to the temple grounds. Tell him about your dreams of an eternal marriage. Tell him about your faith. If he is not interested in learning why temple marriage is so important to you, he’s not for you. Hold on to your dream of temple marriage. Steen Hylander, Denmark

know it can be almost irresistible to be I with the one you love. I also under- stand that sometimes we just want to do the same things as everyone else. It is easy to think that there is time to repent later on, but there’s not. As we contin- uously disregard what the Spirit tells us, we lose the ability to hear Him—as I did. If it continues, we will no longer feel that what we’re doing is wrong and we will not feel the need for repentance. Name withheld

y testimony to you is that our M Shepherd can supply every need. My Shepherd has supplied my need when I have yielded to His ways. You can be complete. You can be eternally happy beyond description because Jesus Christ atoned for you. Anna Palm Gerrbo, Sweden

July 2010 13 

’ve done things I’m ashamed of. I can live with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ I believed Heavenly Father would for- someday. If I want to go to the temple, I need to give me, and I feel He has. But I cannot follow the guidelines of the gospel. I’ve decided forgive myself. I always thought that for- to live the gospel because I know it’s the right giving myself would be easy, but I have thing to do, even though it might be hard. come to understand that it is not so. Take some time to figure out where you’re Name withheld going, and think about where your choice today will take you tomorrow. know how it feels to be in love with Amanda Bernskov, Denmark I someone and not able to pursue the relationship because it would not lead to a temple marriage. It is hard—heart- Find What You Really Need breaking even—but this temporal think more than anything in the world we heartache is nothing compared to the I all want to be loved. But true love is so eternal sorrow you would have from much more than mere attraction. It is trust and breaking your covenants with your wanting what is best for the other person. It is Father in Heaven. There is hope, and unselfish and warm and sometimes sacrificial, something better is waiting. meaning we are willing to give and suffer for Marie Bertilson Olsson, Sweden it if we have to. Frieda, your life and the lives of many other oday as I am looking for a wife, my Tsins from the past haunt me. I wish I people depend on the choices you will make could say to my future wife: “I loved you in the near future. It can be hard to choose the even before I met you. I saved myself right if you have not already decided whose for you.” But I cannot. I would not wish side you are on. Remember that Satan works for my worst enemy to go through the overtime to tear down families. Have the cour- pain I have felt over the last three years age to follow what you know is right. Don’t set- as I have repented of my sins. I wish I’d tle for less than a temple marriage for eternity. had the strength to stay close to God and keep His commandments in the If you want true love, seek the giver of true first place. love: God. True love is a spiritual endowment, Name withheld not a sexual fantasy. It is only from God you can receive this greatest of all gifts. David Isaksen, Norway

Decide to Come Back hen I was about 17, I began to feel WI couldn’t relate to people at church anymore. Around the same time, my parents divorced and stopped attending church. I still went, but I had lost faith in eternal marriage. When I met Kristian,* it wasn’t hard to turn my

back on the Church and walk away. So I did. H allberg Photogra p h of Stockholm Sweden T em le © Stefan

14 Ensign 

You Are Never Alone “We do not set the standards, but we are We lived together for almost four years commanded to teach them and maintain before we split up. I wanted to start going them. The standard remains abstinence to church again, but I was afraid everybody before marriage and total fidelity in marriage. However out of step we may seem, however would ask all sorts of questions. I went to much the standards are belittled, however visit my sister. In her ward no one knew me much others yield, we will not yield, we can- or how long I’d been away from the Church, not yield. . . . and during my stay I started going to church “If you, our youth, feel alone, remember again. I continued going in my own ward there are millions of you in the Church now. when I returned home. The first Sunday I was . . . Wherever you are—in school, at work or play, in the military—you are never alone.” really scared, but people were just happy I President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the was there. Twelve Apostles, “The Standard of Truth Has Been Erected,” I knew I had to choose a side; I couldn’t ­Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 26. keep walking with one foot on the Lord’s side and one on the world’s. I started meeting with my bishop. He has helped me understand the Atonement. It’s been a long road of repentance—at times a very difficult one. “Maybe it can work; maybe we can compro- I’m still in progress, and I still have a lot of mise. Maybe he will change in time. Maybe I things to learn, but I’m happier now. I know can bring him into the gospel.” I chose the right when I decided to come She thought a lot about this, and she cried back to the Church. It was about making up and she prayed. She knew deep inside that my mind about what I felt and what I knew she had always wanted temple marriage, but was right and then just going for it. her feelings for her boyfriend made it hard for Name withheld her to decide. In the end she broke up with him. It was one of the hardest things she had Stand Firm in Your Righteous Decisions ever done, but she put her trust in the Lord. ome time ago a friend of mine was fac- In the spring of 2007 she married a won- Sing the same decision you are. My friend derful man. They are now sealed to each Sarah* always had a strong testimony of the other for time and eternity. She’s truly happy Church and its truths. Since we were young, she decided to wait until she found someone both Sarah and I had a great desire to get she loved and could marry in the temple. married in the temple. If you don’t know what kind of decision When she was 17 or 18, she met and to make, pray about it until you do know. Put started dating a young man. He had a great your trust in the Lord. I know from watching personality and was very easy to like. He Sarah—and from my own life—that when we wasn’t a member, but in the beginning it do, He blesses us. ◼ didn’t seem like that was a problem. Anna Lindgren, Sweden Eventually, she started to think about how *Name has been changed.

life would be if she married him, even though Note it wouldn’t be in the temple. She thought: 1. Neal A. Maxwell, “Why Not Now?” Ensign,­ Nov. 1974, 13.

July 2010 15  Finding a Home in the

GospelBy Rozelle Hastwell Hansen

s I grew up in Perth, Australia, boldly invited me to attend church the possibility of greater opposition? religion was hit-and-miss for with her. Kayla’s unbounded enthu- Matthew 19:29 helped me make A me. I was christened a siasm for the gospel fascinated me. I the decision: “And every one that Methodist, attended denominational hung on to every word as she shared hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or schools, and sporadically attended a the plan of salvation. It all sounded so sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, Baptist congregation with my grand- familiar, as if I had heard it before. or children, or lands, for my name’s mother. Despite this spiritual incon- When I walked into the Angoulême sake, shall receive an hundredfold, sistency, praying seemed natural to chapel for the first time, it was like and shall inherit everlasting life.” Was me—thanks to my grandmother, who being wrapped in a warm blanket. I I willing to put the Savior first—even shared her faith and taught me to read had come “home.” That same day, in before my family? The answer was from the Bible. I am grateful for her the Gospel Essentials class, the mission- yes, and on December 16, 1989, I was consistent influence in my life because, ary who was teaching shared a power- baptized and confirmed a member of despite my worldly pursuits, I intui- ful testimony of the First Vision. As he The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- tively began to build a belief in Jesus explained how the Holy Ghost testifies day Saints. My remaining time in Christ. As I reflect back, I realize that to us, warmth radiated from my heart France was filled with a peaceful joy I Heavenly Father was preparing my and filled my entire body. This power- had never known before. heart to receive the restored gospel. ful witness left an indelible impression When I returned to Perth, my fam- One preparatory event happened on me, one that has carried me through ily welcomed me with open arms. But when I was in an auto accident while trials that have tested my faith. my attempts to share the gospel with visiting France. Moments after I was About a month after first stepping them were met with stiff opposition. strongly prompted to fasten my seat into the Angoulême chapel, I decided They even made arrangements for me belt, the car skidded and plummeted to be baptized. I was 18 and didn’t to see religious “experts” who could down a 20-foot (6-m) embankment. need parental permission. But when I “enlighten” me and help me to see Because of the warning voice and called my family in Australia with the the “error” of my chosen path. This because I regained use of my feet and joyous news, I was shocked and dis- was a great test of faith for me, and legs while others with similar injuries appointed to discover they had a neg- after an onslaught of anti-Mormon are often left permanently paralyzed, ative attitude about the Church and propaganda, I found myself question- I began to understand that a divine opposed my desire to be baptized. ing my decision. power much greater than I was in This weighed heavily on my heart. Yet in the quiet chambers of my control. Should I go ahead against the wishes heart, I could not deny that what I Two years later, while I was back in of my family, whom I loved dearly? had experienced in France was from France as an exchange student, Kayla Or should I delay baptism until I God, so I sought the Lord’s Spirit to

Barth, a fellow student from California, returned to Australia, where I faced strengthen me. I fasted and prayed i on by Jeff Ward Illustrat

16 Ensign 

every Sunday for weeks, I buried myself in the as a blessing in my life. As they have watched scriptures, I received priesthood blessings for our children grow in the gospel, they have guidance and strength, and I attended church expressed gratitude for the things that we are weekly to associate with the Saints. Instead teaching them and for the kind of people they of dwelling on what I couldn’t understand or are becoming. didn’t know, I focused on those things that Recently one of my children expressed I did know: I am a child of God, Jesus is the gratitude for the decision I made to accept the Christ, Joseph Smith restored the Lord’s Church, gospel and raise a family unto the Lord. Her the Book of Mormon and the Bible are the sincerity moved me to tears because I realized word of God, and families are forever. With this that the decision to live the gospel had blessed new perspective, my testimony began to grow not only my life but hers. and strengthen again. I am eternally grateful to Heavenly Father for The last challenge I had to face that year was the miracles and the influence of earthly angels When I walked into the Angoulême chapel for the issue of being married in the temple without who led me home to the gospel of Jesus Christ. the first time, it was the presence of my family. A young man I had Twenty years later I realize that all the trials, like being wrapped in met in France and with whom I had been cor- heartache, and risk of offending my family were a warm blanket. I had responding came from California to visit me for worth it. The gospel is everything to me. It is come “home.” three weeks. It became clear to us both that we true. It is my home. ◼ wanted to be married, but I was faced with another difficult decision: do I get married in the temple to be sealed for time and all eternity, or do I get married elsewhere so that my family can be a part of the ceremony? I followed the counsel of my stake president and married in the temple in February 1991. At the time, my family felt deeply hurt, but they have come to recognize the Church Choose the

That’s the advice from an increasing number of By Richard M. Romney TempleLatter-day Saints in India, who know that bless- Church Magazines ings come from going to the house of the Lord.

ou notice it most when you look in their eyes. There is joy there, hope and belief, Yan optimism that ignites a smile when you say, “Tell me how you feel about the temple.” For Latter-day Saints in India, temple marriage brings a depth of understanding, a sense of ful- fillment, and a commitment to keep covenants forever as they cherish the promises of eternity. Although the nearest temple is thousands of miles away in Hong Kong, increasing numbers are finding their way to the house of the Lord. Guided by prayer, faith, and the Spirit, they are choosing to be sealed in the temple. Here are some of their thoughts and stories.

Finding Strength William Prabhudas of the Bangalore Second Branch works in a courthouse. He knows how heart wrenching it can be to see marriages torn apart. That’s one of the reasons he and his wife were so eager to find strength in the temple. “Like most couples, sometimes we have small issues to work out,” he says. “But working them out is so much easier when we both have an eter- nal perspective.” His wife, Sheela, says that going to the temple has helped not only her and her husband, but it

18 Ensign “We were sealed as a family. It was a good feeling. We forgot the outside world, and it was like heaven for us. We talk about it

all the time.”

Sheela Prabhudas

has also helped their children: Above: The were also there to see her family the temple, and Rennie and his Celesta, age 13, and Doris, 7. Prabhudas sealed. “Afterward, we all held wife, Keerthi, following their “We were sealed as a family,” family traveled hands together. We looked in good example, soon will be. to the Hong Sheela says. “It was a good the mirrors and thought about “From the time I joined the Kong China feeling. We forgot the outside Temple (left) eternity,” she recalls. “It was Church, it has been a process of world, and it was like heaven for to be sealed. beautiful. I knew I wanted to changing and improving, learn- us. We talk about it all the time.” It is the temple belong to my family forever.” ing the plan of salvation and “What a blessing to be sealed nearest to following it,” Rejjie says. “But to my wife,” Brother Prabhudas India. Two Times Two Together the actual goal is to go back and says. “And then they brought Over the years the Thomas live with Heavenly Father, our our daughters in, dressed in brothers of the Hyderabad loving Father, who wants us to white, to join us. It reminded Fourth Branch have done a come back to Him so much that me of cleanliness—cleanliness lot to set good examples for He gave us a Savior, His Son, in our lives and in our homes. each other. As teenagers, they Jesus Christ, to save us from Cleanliness and the temple go became members of the Church sin and everlasting death. I’m hand in hand. When we are at the same time. They worked grateful that the gospel of Jesus clean, the Lord promises—in His together to encourage their Christ changed me and my fam- t as noted; noted; as t p house of promises—to bless us.” mother until she also joined the ily, and going to the temple is Celesta recalls that her family Church. Both brothers served the culmination of all of that.” ney, exce ney, m o worked, planned, and saved for in the India Bangalore Mission. Rejjie explains that one of the R two years to be able to travel to Both helped comfort their challenges he and Metilda faced ichard M. M. ichard

R the temple. But most of all, she mother when their father passed in getting their parents’ approval

hs by by hs remembers being in the temple away. And both recently married. for marriage was that they are p with her parents and that her Now Rejjie and his wife, from different regions and speak p hotogra h of H ong Kong C hina T e mp le by raig D i m ond Photogra aunt and uncle and cousins Metilda, have been sealed in different dialects. “But in the

July 2010 19 “The gospel of Jesus Christ changed me and my family, and going to the temple temple there are no differences,” is the culmination he says, “and that was a great of all of that.” reminder for us.” He feels the future of India belongs to the Rejjie Thomas young. “We are the ones who are going to make a difference,” he says, looking at Metilda. “That’s the kind of vision we both have. We need to conduct Above, from was investigating the Church. “I and Keerthi’s father was very family home evenings, have left: Rejjie, wanted to play cricket instead, impressed with their wedding. family scripture study and family Metilda, Keerthi, but the seminary teacher said, Once he saw their good exam- and Rennie prayer, and stay focused on the ‘You need to put God first,’ so ple, he agreed to our marriage, Thomas. Below: temple. That is our future.” I did. Even though I was shy, I and in that way we honored our Rennie and Metilda agrees: “When I ask Keerthi enjoy came and sat on the back row.” parents and also got our mar- him how he can be so under- Sunday School On the front row he saw Keerthi, riage properly arranged.” standing and loving, he says it each week. who at that time had been a Rennie says his experience is because the gospel makes member for just six months. with Keerthi is a good exam- him better. On his mission he Though they became friends, ple of how the understanding saw the example of the mission it wasn’t until Rennie returned of marriage in the Church is president treating his wife with from his mission that they started becoming more widespread. respect and love. And in the dating. Keerthi remembers how, “When I first joined the Church, temple we see that same pat- when they finally decided to it was a big thing if a member tern. As we show that same get married, they went to their married a member,” he says. parents to convince “And if they got to the temple, them the choice that was even bigger. But now was right. we understand how to get “We learned in married within the Church. We seminary that we make sure we’re ready for the should honor our par- temple. The temple is the key.” ents, and we remem- bered that,” she says. The President’s Example Rennie adds, Enter the apartment of “They counseled Venkat and Lynda Dunna of us that we should the Hyderabad Fourth Branch, pattern in our lives and someday finish our education and that I and there are plenty of clues to our children, that influence will should wait for my brother to be that these newlyweds are crazy strengthen the Church in India.” married first. So we worked and about each other. A handmade Rennie talks about how waited, and the best part was birthday banner from him to her he met his future bride while that, just as we finished our edu- is taped to the wall. An album attending seminary when he cation, my brother got married, with their wedding photos

20 Ensign sits on the table near the sofa. want to say no, but they did As they talk, he puts his arm want us to wait many months, around her, and she smiles so maybe a year,” recalls Venkat. often it’s contagious. “What helped us was the They describe how they met Spirit,” he continues. “I felt through Church-sponsored prompted to tell everyone that activities and how happy Lynda and I were both working,

“We just kept thinking, ‘The Lord’s going to

help us,’ and He did.”

Venkat Dunna

Lynda’s mother was when they so we would help take care of Above: Venkat “Seven of us traveled to the got engaged because she knew everything but that it was impor- and Lynda temple together,” Lynda says. “On Venkat from church. But there tant to get married as soon as Dunna remem- the same day Venkat and I were ber traveling to was a problem. Venkat had an possible and that it was impor- sealed, my mother, my sister, and the temple in a older brother who was single, tant to start by going to the group of seven. I were able to be sealed to my and in India some still hold temple. We just kept thinking, The same day deceased father. It was a wonder- to the tradition that older sib- ‘The Lord’s going to help us,’ they were ful day in every way.” lings should be married before and He did.” sealed, Lynda Venkat, who is now serving younger siblings. His parents, A new Latter-day Saint chapel was also sealed as branch president, says one to her deceased who are friendly to the Church was opened just in time for of his greatest desires is to see a father. but are not members, were also them to have their wedding and temple in India some day. “That building a house and didn’t reception there, and then they will be a great blessing,” he says. want a wedding until the house left immediately to be sealed in “It will help us to build Zion was finished. “My parents didn’t the Hong Kong China Temple. where we are.”

July 2010 21 “We were brought together by our families and friends but also by the Spirit. We hope the Spirit will always

guide our marriage.”

Barat Powell

A Guided Marriage The story of Barat and Ishla Right: The Powell of the Chennai Second story of Barat Branch actually begins with and Ishla actually begins Barat’s parents, Sathiadhas with Barat’s Powell and Suriya Kumari, who parents (next were married in 1981 and joined page). “We the Church in 1991. In 1993 are teaching Sathiadhas was called as branch the younger president. After years of saving generation and preparing and before the the impor- tance of the Hong Kong Temple was dedi- temple,” says cated, they traveled to the Manila Barat’s father, Philippines Temple to be sealed. Sathiadhas. As their family grew and matured in the gospel, they taught their two sons about the importance of going to the who had been introduced to the completely changed. I wanted temple. (Their youngest son is Church by the Powells. to pray for marriage.” currently serving a mission.) At the time of her baptism, When he returned from his The Powells were thrilled that Barat had four months remain- mission, Barat was surprised when their oldest son, Barat, got ing on his mission. “The Isaacs when several people told him engaged, temple marriage was kept saying he would be the that Ishla would be right for immediately part of the plan. right match for me, but I wanted him. A short time later they Ishla, his fiancée, was a new to postpone marriage and serve met briefly at the wedding of member of the Church. “From a mission myself,” Ishla says. President Isaac’s daughter but the first day I met with the mis- Even though the branch and never talked much. Indian soci- sionaries, I knew the gospel was mission presidents approved ety is quite formal about men true, and I loved it,” she says. She her missionary application, and women getting acquainted, grew close to the current branch Ishla explains, “Suddenly and and both Barat and Ishla wanted president’s family, the Isaacs, unexpectedly my mind was to behave appropriately.

22 Ensign 

should go,” Sathiadhas recalls. “We told them we would celebrate with them at the legal ceremony before they left, and we asked them to take lots of pictures after they were sealed. Then we would celebrate again when they returned. “We are teaching the younger gen- eration the importance of the temple,” Sathiadhas explains. “We encourage all people to go to the temple, and we wanted our children to go there too.” He says he is particularly pleased with the way Barat and Ishla respected their Three weeks later Ishla was Ishla had learned about temple parents, the customs of their people, praying and wondering what to marriage at institute and knew she and their own agency. do, and so was Barat. “The Lord wouldn’t settle for anything less. Barat “In India people refer to ‘arranged showed me through so many felt the same way. But they would have marriages’ and ‘love marriages,’” Barat ways that Barat was the right to save money to travel to the temple, says. “We feel we have both.” In fact, one,” Ishla says. “But I was very and it meant many friends and family Barat and Ishla prefer to call their mar- reserved. I prayed, ‘Lord, if this members, including Barat’s mother and riage a “guided marriage.” “We were is the way, then show me how I father, wouldn’t have enough money to brought together by our families and can speak to him.’” travel with them. friends but also by the Spirit,” he says. Barat says, “I had talked to “It’s a long way to go, and traveling is “We hope the Spirit will always guide several people about her, and very expensive, but we all agreed they our marriage.” ◼ they all had nothing but good to say. Suddenly I thought, ‘I need to talk to her right now,’ Local Culture and Gospel Culture but I didn’t know how. I called “The purpose of the gospel is to transform common creatures President Isaac’s sister and into celestial citizens, and that requires change. . . . asked if she thought it was all “The traditions or culture or way of life of a people inevitably right to call.” include some practices that must be changed by those who wish to qualify for God’s choicest blessings. . . . Ishla continues, “As I was “There is a unique gospel culture, a set of values and expectations and practices praying, the branch presi- common to all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This dent’s sister telephoned and gospel way of life comes from the plan of salvation, the commandments of God, said, ‘Barat wants to talk to and the teachings of the living prophets. It is given expression in the way we you. Can I give him your num- raise our families and live our individual lives.” ber?’” Half an hour later they Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Repentance and Change,” ­ Liahona and Ensign,­ Nov. 2003, 37, 39. were talking. Barat says, “It was as if we had known each other for years.”  ThreeA Tale of Families By Don L. Searle Church Magazines Peter and Genivive Barr he three couples are Peter Barr was born in Lithuania during World War II. Genivive diverse. One husband and was born in Germany, of Polish parentage, also during the war. Twife were born in different Peter and Genivive are convinced it was the hand of the Lord that European countries, immigrated The experi- led both of their families to move half a world away in the late to Australia with their families after ence of three 1940s and settle in Newcastle, Australia. Australian World War II, and grew up around The two young people first became aware of each other in their families rep- the corner from each other. resents what mid-teens, around 1960. About that same time, Genivive realized Another husband is a California happens as she was not finding answers in her family’s church to questions native who served a mission in the gospel about life and our existence on earth. But when two missionaries spreads Australia, then met and married from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints knocked on her throughout an Australian woman; after some the earth: family’s door, Genivive found her answers in what they taught. years, they chose to make their individuals Peter was drawn into the discussions. One day at home, he resolved home in the country of her birth. grow through to ask God in prayer whether the Book of Mormon is true. He had obedience, The third couple are Australian not fully framed the question in prayer when he received an answer and they, natives, reared in the Church with in turn, so powerful that he was overcome and began to sob. All he could say, the tradition of serving. strengthen over and over, was, “Thank you, thank you.” Each of the three men has the Church in Because of parental opposition, both Peter and Genivive had to wait their area. served as president of the to be baptized. Peter was 22 before he could join the Church, but in Newcastle Australia Stake. Each the meantime, he served in every way he could without being a mem- of the women has also served ber. The two were married when he was 23 and she was 21, civilly, as in leadership capacities while the law required, then sealed in the Hamilton New Zealand Temple. a mother of young children. As Obedience to God was an important objective in Peter’s life. Genivive couples and as individuals they recalls, “Peter was adamant that he wanted to do whatever the Lord have faced challenges. They wanted him to do—he wanted to be able to serve. He had chosen two could tell you that the Lord has scriptures as guides: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteous- strengthened them not simply ness” (Matthew 6:33), and “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; . . . in spite of their challenges, but but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” ( Joshua 24:15). through their challenges. They The Barrs know that the Lord took Peter at his word on his would not have sought either desire to serve. the leadership roles or the chal- Not long after their marriage, the opportunity came for Peter to lenges, but they can testify that buy a business in Toukley, about an hour from Newcastle, with the living obediently helped prepare help of a partner. That men’s clothing store supported the Barrs for them for when opportunities 30 years—thriving even when the economy did not—while opportu-

and trials came. nities came for both of them to serve in the Church. Being the owner noted otherwise unless searle, don by photography

24 Ensign  What is the reward for faithful obedience? Three Australian couples have learned that for them it is stronger faith and an increased capacity to serve.

of a business allowed Peter to control his own time. At 26, he was called as a branch president, then later as bishop when the branch became a ward. He served as a stake president’s counselor, then as a counselor to mission presidents, then as a stake president beginning in 1978. In 1980, when the Newcastle Australia Stake was created, he was called as its first president. Church service was a sac- rifice for young parents with a growing family. There were times when it was challeng- ing, Peter recalls, “but never a woe-is-me challenge.” Genivive says, “When Peter was at home, he was at home. We had him 110 percent.” Peter expresses gratitude for his wife’s contri- Above: Genivive butions in mothering their four and Peter Barr. children and maintaining their Left: The Barrs home while she too served and their family in a 2002 photo in the Church. They did not at a beach near escape the challenges of tight their home. budgets, illnesses, and children who sometimes did not make choices they approved of. Still, they were sustained in their service, and their temporal needs were met. “We were just

photography by don searle, unless otherwise noted noted otherwise unless searle, don by photography blessed,” Peter says. B arr photograph by matt

July 2010 25  “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33).

One time as he prepared to make the four and one half hour drive to Sydney (before the current freeway) for a leadership meet- Jesse and Terri Little ing, he realized the trip would use up most of the petrol (gasoline) When Jesse C. Little Jr. was called as a he could afford for the week. When he reached Sydney, however, bishop, he knew he had a choice to make. the indicator needle on the fuel gauge had barely moved. When he He could not serve his family or his ward as arrived home, it still showed almost three-quarters of a tank—ample he felt he should and still pursue his devel- for his needs. There was no way to explain what had happened, oping business as an independent contractor. except that the Lord had blessed them. It seemed wise to give up running his own When the time came that Peter and Genivive wanted to serve a business; instead, he would work as a plas- mission for the Church, they put their business up for sale. There terer for another company. was no interest at first—and then a fire gutted the store, destroying The Littles have lived to see how that everything. But the unbelievable happened—a buyer came forward, choice blessed them and their family of eight wanting to take over the business. The Barrs used insurance money children. It also allowed them to help in the to restore it to his liking. growth of the Church in their area. Both have As the Barrs were in the process of filling out mission applica- held a number of leadership callings through tions, they were called to an interview with Elder Richard G. Scott the years. Jesse served as the second pres- of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, visiting in Australia, who ident of the Newcastle Australia Stake, suc- advised them to hold their papers for a time. They obeyed, won- ceeding Peter Barr. dering what that meant. Finally, Peter received a call from President Their first four children were born in the Thomas S. Monson, then First Counselor in the First Presidency. United States, Jesse’s native country. With four Peter was called to preside over the Baltic Mission—Latvia, Estonia, children younger than three, the Littles made and his native Lithuania. The Barrs served there from 2002‑–2005. the practical decision to move to Australia, As he visited with Lithuanian Saints, President Barr found some where Terri’s family could provide help. Jesse of the language he had learned as a little boy coming back. At felt he could find work in Australia, and the times, he kept an interpreter close by. But sometimes he felt the gift move would offer a chance to serve in the of tongues as he taught gospel principles in Lithuanian, going far Church among the people he had come to beyond the vocabulary of the six and one half year old he had been love as a missionary. when he had left the land of his birth. In Newcastle, Terri served for a number of The Barrs say they were blessed in other ways while they years in the stake Young Women presidency, served in the mission field, in accordance with a promise made by influencing girls who are now mothers rear- President Monson when Peter was called. The blessings included ing families of their own. the return of one of their children to Church activity. For the most part, the Littles’ children have The Barrs returned home to continue doing what they love— found happiness in living the gospel as their serving. Peter is Bishop Barr again, presiding over the Toukley parents taught them, though individual agency Ward. None of the challenges they have faced through the years is as much at work in their family as in any have changed their feelings about giving their lives to the service other. How did they keep their children close to of their God. Peter still expresses the same testimony he felt as a the Church? “I don’t think there’s a formula. You young man when he prepared to reorder his life so he could serve just do what the Brethren tell you,” Jesse says. more fully: “If we do what the Lord wants, He will bless us.” Terri adds: “You have to put the gospel first.” Through their service, many other lives have been blessed as well.

26 Ensign 

They adopted the philosophy, Jesse says, that, “We’re not rais- ing children. We’re raising lead- ers.” He and his wife believed they were preparing future missionaries. “We felt that’s why they were sent to us.” Six of their eight children have served missions. These days when “President Little” is introduced in stake meetings, it is their son Joshua who rises to speak. Joshua Little is now second counselor in the stake presidency. Not long ago, Jesse, a member of the high council, accompanied his son on a stake speaking assignment—as junior companion. At any given time, several of the Littles’ children or their spouses will be contributing in the Church by serving in stake or ward positions. Terri recalls wondering one Above: Jesse and Terri time if it was worthwhile to go Little.* on having family home evening. Right: The Littles Some of the children resisted, with four of their sometimes they fought and sons, (from left) Isaac, Johnathon, Joshua, often their attention wandered. and Mark. But as Terri was wavering, one of her sons said to her, “Come on, Mom, are we going to have family home evening or not?” She realized that they had come to expect it, and she and her husband had a parental respon- sibility to carry on.

July 2010 27  “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; . . . but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” ( Joshua 24:15).

Ian and Bridget Leneham Along with the usual commitments Ian Leneham, current president of the Newcastle stake, learned in rearing a family, there has been an early to follow spiritual impressions. He followed one of those unusual challenge in recent years: Terri’s when he moved to Newcastle, where his wife, Bridget, lived— stomach cancer. Her stomach had to be even though at the time there were no promises or commitments removed, and she had chemotherapy. Her between them. view is that she can’t be sure what the He was called as a bishop at 29, then as stake president at future holds, but she is ready to accept the 33—and when that call came, he had already received a strong Lord’s will. Day by day, she takes advan- impression as to whom his counselors should be. tage of every opportunity to enjoy her 18 Ian and Bridget were both taught in gospel-centered families grandchildren. and by faithful leaders to seek and follow the guidance of the Spirit. Because Jesse worked for the plastering They are trying to pass on this legacy of faith, both in the home and company, his sons were able to work there in their Church service. The Lenehams recognize that the example as well and put aside money for their mis- of local leaders like the Barrs and the Littles teaches this important sions. Now, because of their experience, lesson: the service we give to others contributes to our individual three of the Littles’ sons are operating a growth. Bridget remembers being influenced by Terri Little as a plastering business of their own. teen in the Young Women program. Ian knows that earlier bishops The children say their parents have and stake presidents helped build a base of strong membership that been examples of hard work, of living moves the Church forward now in their part of Australia. what they preached, of trying to live in The Newcastle stake is large—five and one half hours by free- harmony, and of generosity to those in way from one end to the other. How do President Leneham and his need. One son says that although his counselors administer its 11 units? parents have provided adequately for the “We do the best we can,” he replies. “We are very blessed to have family, material things have never been wonderfully faithful bishops and branch presidents. These great terribly important to them. Terri acknowl- men, so diligently supported by their wives, are well equipped to edges that this is true. They deliberately lead their wards and branches. They are great shepherds, and they lived with less so she could be at home lovingly look after their flocks.” with the children. As he meets with individuals, President Leneham follows coun- What they have has never been as impor- sel he once heard from Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the tant as the principles by which they live. Twelve Apostles: never leave an interview without issuing the mem- Jesse says that when they have put the Lord ber a challenge to grow spiritually. first, they have always been supported spiri- “My emphasis has always been to deepen discipleship,” President tually, and they have never lacked for money Leneham explains. He adds that there are inspiring examples when it was needed. in “members across the stake whose commitment to the gospel “We’ve never made any sacrifice for extends beyond a cultural conversion to a deeply held devotion. which we haven’t been more than repaid Their hearts are changed. This is evidenced by what they do and for our efforts.” more particularly by who they are.” In his own family, there is evidence that the Leneham children are learning principles their mother and father would want them to live. Their oldest child, Caleb, 12, has already read the

28 Ensign 

Book of Mormon and received a testimony of his own. Tabitha, 10, already knows about the power of prayer. Once, her pet guinea pig was lost in the house and the entire family spread out to look for it. Tabitha went first to pray for help. The family quickly found her pet. Ian Leneham says his family has been “abundantly blessed” in terms of material things. For parents in Australia, as in other prosperous countries, teaching children to be grateful can sometimes be a problem; too many people around them, enjoying com- fortable, materially rich lives, seem to feel little need for God or faith. “We try always to remember the source of all our blessings,” he says. “Many times we have reflected on the particular blessing of having a home that pro- vides a sanctuary from the storms of life.” Bridget says she and her husband are doing

Above: Ian and Bridget Leneham. all they can to help their children learn of Below: With their four children: (left to right) Heavenly Father’s blessings. She would not Teagan, Tabitha, Caleb, and Corben. send her children off to school in the morning without family prayer. Caleb and Tabitha are old enough to read the scriptures on their own; Bridget makes time to read scriptures with their daughter Teagan, 7, and son Corben, 4. Building a strong family, like building the Church, means carefully putting in place a firm spiritual base, Bridget says. “For me, it’s just the daily things. It’s just living and breath- ing the gospel.” The lives of the Barrs, the Littles, and the Lenehams illustrate how the Lord builds spiritual strength across generations, both in families and in local Church leadership. He works through individuals who have the faith to go forth daily “living and breathing the gospel.” ◼

* Terri Little passed away as this article was being prepared for publication.

July 2010 29 

By Elder Paul E. Koelliker Of the Seventy

Recognizing Righteous Leadership ne of my earliest recollections of my father is of him sitting on the Ostand as a member of our ward bishopric. From that early memory through his years as a bishop, a high councilor, and a husband and father, I knew him as a righteous servant of God. As my home teaching compan- ion, he modeled for me how to be kind in word and how to give love in service. On one occasion we were visiting a home where the husband, after welcoming us, spoke of his wife and the illness she was experienc- ing. Through his tears, he asked my father to join him in giving his wife a priesthood blessing. The Spirit was strong, and the feeling of love seemed to burst the walls of the home. I will never forget the burning in my heart as I listened to the words of the blessing. Our family is the beneficiary of a legacy of service from my father’s example of priesthood watchcare and loving kindness. His pat- tern of Christ-centered living

30 Ensign  extended far beyond his Church relationships that, you’ll get along all right and [you] will go and was an example of how we can live and forward with a love for the people and a great righteously lead others by applying the princi- respect for them and [you will] try to accom- ples taught by the Savior and the prophets. plish what your office demands of you.” 1 The scriptures document examples of The Perils of Adulation the effect of adulation. Consider the In addition to learning from leaders in our accounts of Rehoboam and Jeroboam, both own lives, we can turn to the scriptures, which kings of Israel who lost their vision of the are filled with stories that demonstrate the Lord’s pattern while trying to protect their blessings of following righteous leaders and leadership positions. Rehoboam, who came the consequences of following wicked leaders. to power following the death of his father,

The scriptures document examples of the effect of adulation. Consider the accounts of Rehoboam and Jeroboam, both kings of Israel who lost their vision of the Lord’s pattern while trying to protect their leadership positions.

One of the most oft-observed fail- King Solomon, rejected the counsel of ures of leadership comes when the “old men, that stood before Solomon” we place too much emphasis (1 Kings 12:6; see also 2 Chronicles 10:6) to on being recognized as a lighten the burden of the children of Israel. leader. Thinking that we are Instead, he imposed additional hardships on more important than others them (see 1 Kings 12:11; 2 Chronicles 10:14), can be perilous to us and to thinking that he could establish order and those we lead. It is vital that retain his hold over the people. His focus on we not become trapped by his own might led to continuous contention the enticement of recognition with the leaders of other tribes. or adulation. The northern tribes felt threatened by President Gordon B. Rehoboam’s actions and appointed Jeroboam Hinckley (1910–2008) counseled: to be their spokesman. Angered by the unrigh- “It is so very important that you teous rule and decisions of the king, Jeroboam do not let praise and adulation go determined to persuade the people that they to your head. Adulation is poison. should follow him, abandon the house of You better never lose sight of David, and establish a separate kingdom in the the fact that the Lord put you north called the kingdom of Israel. To capture where you are according to His the attention of the people, he revived a pre- design, which you don’t under- viously followed form of worship. He ordered stand. Acknowledge the Lord for the creation of golden calves, and he appointed whatever good you can accomplish false priests, thereby diverting their faith from and give Him the credit and the the Lord to things of this world (see 1 Kings glory and [do] not worry about that 12:27–31; 2 Chronicles 11:14–16). As the people

coming to yourself. If you can do were diverted to “high places” for idol worship jeroboam and rehoboam by ted henninger

July 2010 31  and to “groves” for immorality (2 Chronicles 14:3; see also he condemned and “took away” the “high places,” where idol 1 Kings 14:15), they yielded to unrighteous patterns of lead- worship occurred, and the “groves,” where immoral acts were ership. The kingdom of Israel suffered until it was destroyed committed (2 Chronicles 17:6). Similarly, each of us within and most of its inhabitants scattered in 721 b.c. our own circle of influence can have an impact on the evil influences that quietly creep into our homes, neighborhoods, The Blessings of Righteous Leadership and communities. Each of us can also reduce or eliminate the Not until Rehoboam’s great-grandson Jehoshaphat worldly trappings—idols—from our lives and our homes. As became king of Judah was righteous leadership reestab- we replace worldly influences and invite the Spirit to fill our lished in that kingdom. When the people were threatened homes and hearts, we lead the fundamental organization of by several invading armies, Jehoshaphat declared a fast society—our family—in the paths of righteousness. and then approached the Lord in earnest prayer: “O our Finally, Jehoshaphat sent Levites and priests throughout the land to teach the people from “the book of the law of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 17:9)—the scriptures of that Studying and applying the righteous day. He focused the attention of the people on the word patterns of leadership, service, and wor- of God as a guide for righteous living. Because God came ship taught in the scriptures will help our to the aid of the people, “the fear of the Lord fell upon all homes become sanctuaries of safety and the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah” fortresses of faith. (2 Chronicles 17:10; see also 2 Chronicles 20:29). Jehoshaphat teaches us behaviors to emulate in our own leadership roles at home and in the Church. His God, . . . we have no might against this great company that example shows us that humble, effective leaders: cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our • Care about and willingly serve others. eyes are upon thee” (2 Chronicles 20:12). • Pray to and express faith in God. The Lord’s answer did not come directly to the king but • Are morally trustworthy and act responsibly for the rather through His prophet Jahaziel. Through him the Lord good of all. said to Jehoshaphat, “Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhab- • Point people to the scriptures and teach them to always itants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith seek wholesome learning. the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of • Follow the living prophets and obey the Lord. this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s. . . . • Do not yield to the temptation to seek for recognition or “The Lord will be with you” (2 Chronicles 20:15, 17). exercise “unrighteous dominion” (see D&C 121:39). Jehoshaphat humbly received the counsel of the prophet and bowed in thankful prayer before the Lord. Jehoshaphat Just as my father’s example helped me understand the then taught some important principles to the people that consequences of living and leading righteously, so those we would be wise to consider in our own lives: “Believe in who followed Jehoshaphat were blessed to learn the prin- the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his ciples that would lead them back to their Heavenly Father. prophets, so shall ye prosper” (2 Chronicles 20:20). This course of action is as true today as it was then. The word of the Lord was fulfilled, and the people of Studying and applying the righteous patterns of leader- Judah were protected. As Jehoshaphat’s armies stood on ship, service, and worship taught in the scriptures will help the field of battle, they sang songs of praise to the Lord our homes become sanctuaries of safety and fortresses of and watched as the invading armies fought so fiercely faith for our precious loved ones. May we have the wis- among themselves that they destroyed one another (see dom in our leadership roles to shun our own reflection 2 Chronicles 20:22–24). In a similar way, we can be pro- and instead seek to radiate the light of the Savior. ◼ tected from the evil influences of this world if we will Note listen to and follow the words of the living prophets. 1. “Messages of Inspiration from President Hinckley,” Church News, Jehoshaphat applied another principle of leadership when July 1, 2000, 2.

32 Ensign Serving in the Church

Blessed by My Calling By Judith Castillo Martelo he Lord has called you to serve as months passed, I saw how president of our Primary,” the branch the Lord was molding my T president told me. It had been only a character and how I was year since I had left the Laurel class and only developing gifts and talents I didn’t know I had. two years since I had been baptized into the The following year I left Barranquilla, Church. I was incredulous. Colombia, to go to Bogotá for a month “I don’t have the patience required to with my mother because she needed teach children,” I told him. chemotherapy. During that time I prayed “Do you believe your calling came from constantly and felt close to the Lord. I decided God?” he asked. “When He calls us, He qual- to change my university major, and through An Opportunity ifies us.” 1 inspiration, I learned that the Lord wanted me to Grow His words filled me with confidence, and to devote my life to teaching children. When “Every calling pro- immediately I knew that the Lord must need I returned to school, I began working on a vides an opportunity to serve and to grow. me in Primary. I had no idea how to fulfill my degree in special education. The Lord organized new calling, but I knew He would guide me. I knew that Heavenly Father had given the Church in a way I desired to do the best job I could, but a me my calling in Primary to prepare me. As I that offers each few months later my mother was diagnosed served, I discovered my true vocation, and as member an oppor- with cancer. In addition, I was studying I lived the gospel and lost myself in service, I tunity for service, systems engineering. I found it difficult to felt that I was in the Lord’s arms. which, in turn, leads meet all of my responsibilities at home, at the The testimony I gained while serving in the to personal spiritual growth. Whatever university, and in Primary. My spirits began Primary presidency and later in a stake Primary your calling, I urge to flag, and one Sunday at church everything presidency has sustained me as a member of you to see it as an came to a head, and the tears began to flow. the Church. I have learned how to teach with opportunity not A fellow ward member noticed and gave love, to see with the eyes of a child, and to only to strengthen me some wonderful advice: “Judith, the best seek the Lord for guidance and inspiration. and bless others way to get through trials is to lose yourself in Each day when I teach at a bilingual but also to become what Heavenly the gospel and in service to others,” he said. school in my city, I think about the efforts, Father wants you “By doing so, you will see how the Lord will challenges, and blessings of those years. The to become.” ease your burdens.” children who were in Primary back then are President Dieter F. As I followed his encouraging advice, my now teenagers, but their eyes still shine with Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First attitude changed, my faith was strengthened, love for the Savior and His gospel. Presidency, “Lift Where and I was filled with a determination to serve I know that when the Lord calls us, He You Stand,” Liahona­ and ­Ensign, Nov. 2008, 56. the Lord. My trials continued, but I dedicated teaches and trains us and places leaders in myself to my calling and looked forward to our path to help us live this beautiful gospel seeing the children each Sunday. They taught of Jesus Christ. ◼ me something every week as they showed me Note 1. See Thomas S. Monson, “Duty Calls,” Ensign,­

ation by Daniel L ewis illust r ation Right: their testimonies through their actions. As the May 1996, 44.

July 2010 33 

By Russell T. Osguthorpe Sunday School General President

A for Us to Do WoParents and teachers can help rchildren k and students live the gospel more fully by asking them to act on the principles they are learning.

hen Moroni appeared to work the Lord had called him to do. Joseph Smith the night of In one sense, all who have been called WSeptember 21, 1823, he to teach (and that eventually includes all called Joseph by name and told him “that members of the Church) are divine mes- God had a work for [him] to do” ( Joseph sengers from the Lord. They are on the Smith—History 1:33). Moroni was a divine Lord’s errand, just as Moroni was. Like messenger with a divine commission for Moroni, they communicate to their learn- Joseph to translate the Book of Mormon. ers the work that God has for them to Moroni repeated his message to Joseph do. They then ask their students to teach three times that night and again the next others what they have learned, such as day when Joseph attempted to leave the field where he when Moroni asked Joseph to recount his experience to had been working with his father. A little while later, his father (see Joseph Smith—History 1:49). Finally, they and during four additional “interviews,” Joseph “received review and repeat lessons so that learners can become instruction and intelligence” from Moroni before being skilled at doing the work they have been called to do. commanded to begin the work of translation (see Joseph Smith—History 1:54). The Most Important Learning Moroni’s repeated lessons gave Joseph time to learn When President Thomas S. Monson was a young boy, what he should learn so that he could do what he should one of his Sunday School teachers, Lucy Gertsch, gave her do and be what he should be. 1 As Joseph’s teacher, students a work that God had for them to do. Her lesson Moroni had the task of preparing the Prophet to do the that day was on Acts 20:35: “It is more blessed to give than

34 Ensign 

Rather than merely talking about a gospel principle, the to receive.” One of the class members, Billy, was absent Rather than merely talking class did some- that day because his mother had just passed away. While about a gospel principle, the thing. That is teaching the lesson, Sister Gertsch “closed the manual and class did something. They lived when the most opened [their] . . . hearts to the glory of God.” the principle during that very important learn- She asked the class, “How much money do we have in class period. Sister Gertsch had ing occurs. our class party fund?” a work for them to do. And that The students proudly answered, “Four dollars and is when the most important seventy-five cents.” Then Sister Gertsch gently suggested, learning occurs. “Billy’s family is hard pressed and grief stricken. What Gospel teaching that changes behavior often occurs would you think of the possibility of visiting the family outside a Church classroom. Sister Elaine S. Dalton, Young members this morning and giving to them your fund?” Women general president, tells of an experience in a a i nt ng President Monson, along with his classmates, visited school library when she was in the seventh grade. While Billy’s home and gave to the grieving family the funds she and her friends were selecting books, her friends originally designated for a class party. Following the good suggested that they all check out a romance novel. Sister deed, President Monson explained the gospel learning he Dalton did not even know what romance novels were at and his class had experienced that day: the time but went along with her friends and chose one. “Our hearts were lighter than they had ever been, our joy When she went to check out the book, the librarian more full, our understanding more profound. A God-inspired looked at young Elaine and then at the book. “Elaine,” she teacher had taught her boys and girls an eternal lesson of said, “this book is not really the one you want.” 2 i l fro m the p deta Mann. L eft: i ons by Paul Illustrat the angel Moroni A ppears to Joseph Sm ith by T o m L ovell divine truth: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” The librarian then selected another book and gave it to her.

July 2010 35 Following his parents’ exam- ple, young Chad paid his tithing, subtracted nine dollars for a pair of jeans so that he would have something to wear for school, and then contributed all that remained to the temple fund. Brother Webb’s father had a work for his children to do. They will never forget the les- Sister Dalton sons they learned through that accepted the summer of work. librarian’s invita- tion to read the Teaching that Changes Lives book and discuss These three stories help us “You will like this one much more,” she said. “It’s Jane it with her. The see what is most important if we Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. After you read it, I want you librarian had want to help those we teach learn to come back, and we can talk about it.” a work for her in ways that will change them. Sister Dalton accepted the librarian’s invitation to read to do. These teachers used love to ask the book and later returned to discuss it with her. The their learners to do a work. 3 They librarian had a work for her to do. knew their names, just as Moroni Of all the settings for transformative gospel teaching, knew Joseph’s name (see Joseph the home is the most powerful. When Brother Chad H. Smith—History 1:33). More than knowing their names, Webb, director of the Church’s seminaries and institutes, they knew their learners’ potential and were not afraid to was a young boy growing up on a farm, his father, a high challenge them to rise to the highest in them. school teacher, had to earn extra money in the summer From President Monson’s account, Sister Gertsch had to provide for their family of six children. One summer not planned on visiting Billy’s home that day, but acting on the family felled trees on their 20-acre farm and sold the inspiration, she “closed the manual and opened [their] . . . trees to the local lumber mill. His father explained that at hearts to the glory of God.” The librarian had not planned the end of the summer each child would receive a certain on asking Sister Dalton to select another book but was percentage of the proceeds. prompted the moment she saw her with a romance novel. Young Chad worked hard all summer. Just before Brother Webb’s parents likely had not planned to give so school began, his father distributed the appropriate much of their earnings to the temple fund, but when the amount to each child. Chad received $60—a large sum of request came, they were inspired to respond and to chal- money for a nine-year-old. lenge their children to do the same. 4 After distributing the wages, his father said: “The brethren In each case, the lessons helped a young person have asked that we contribute to the new temple that will be become stronger in the faith. All three were invited to take built in Seattle, Washington, [USA]. Your mother and I have action so that they could experience promised blessings. decided to give all of the money we can. You might want Rather than just discussing gospel principles with chil- to decide how much you want to give.” dren and students, parents and teachers can help them live

36 Ensign 

the gospel more fully by asking them to act on what they Every parent and teacher in the Church can benefit are learning. As parents and teachers, do we see ourselves from Moroni’s model of teaching. All teachers can focus as messengers from God who have a work for our chil- on a key doctrine, invite learners to live the doctrine, and dren and students to do? bear testimony of the promised blessings that will come Like Moroni, we who teach young people are preparing into their lives as they embrace gospel principles. All them for events that lie ahead of them, such as missions and parents and teachers can give their children and students marriage. Like Moroni, we who teach adults are preparing a work to do. them to help their children and grandchildren receive all of That work might be as simple as asking students to the blessings God would give them. Like Moroni, we repeat return to their homes and teach their families what they and review. And like Moroni, we have learned. Or that work might be something more give assignments that prepare Following his difficult, such as asking students to abandon an old unpro- our students for greater work parents’ exam- ductive habit and develop a new positive one. In both that lies ahead, and we ask them ple, Chad Webb instances, the lesson will sink deep into the learner’s soul to teach their newly mastered paid his tithing, and perhaps change a life. ◼ gospel principle to others. subtracted nine Notes 1. See Thomas S. Monson, “To Learn, to Do, to Be,” Ensign,­ Nov. 2008, Moroni used scriptures as he dollars for a pair 60–62. 5 2. Thomas S. Monson, “Examples of Great Teachers,” Ensign,­ June 2007, taught Joseph, and his teaching of jeans, and then 108–109. contained the three essential contributed all 3. See also Teaching, No Greater Call (1999), 31–32. 4. See Teaching, No Greater Call, 41–42. elements of gospel instruction: that remained of 5. See Teaching, No Greater Call, 54–59. 6. See Teaching, No Greater Call, 52–53. his wages to the • Key doctrine that is pure6 7. See Teaching, No Greater Call, 74. temple fund. • An invitation to action 7 • Promised blessings

As Moroni quoted from Isaiah, he taught Joseph about the doctrine of the gathering of Israel and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. Citing Malachi, he taught that the priesthood would be revealed and that the hearts of the children would turn to their fathers. He told Joseph that his name would be spoken of in all nations (see Joseph Smith—History 1:33, 36–41). All of these powerful bless- ings would come as a result of Joseph doing the work the Lord had given to him.

July 2010 37 

Below: President Heber J. Grant dedicated the Cardston Alberta Temple on August 26, 1923—the first temple to be dedicated outside the United States. Right: The silver trowel used by Elder David O. McKay in laying the temple resident Thomas S. cornerstone in 1915. Monson has called upon PLatter-day Saints to con- tinue in our faith and prayers that “areas where our influence is limited and where we are not allowed to share the gospel” will be opened (see sidebar on page 25). He was present at the landmark meeting in 1974 when President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985) called upon Church leaders to lengthen their strides and enlarge their vision in magnifying the mis- To Fill the Earth sionary program worldwide and “in finding the keys that have apparently been lost to many nations wherein we can open those worlds.” 1 President Monson prom- ises that miracles can occur as we continue in our faith and prayers. He knows from experience that this is true. In the years following President Left: Samuel H. Smith, brother of the Kimball’s plea, he saw a dra- Prophet Joseph Smith, was among the first missionaries to preach the gospel in matic increase in the number the United States. Above: Early mission- of missionaries and convert aries to England found great success in 2 spreading the gospel, as did missionaries baptisms. He witnessed the to Scandinavian and other European opening of many areas as Latter- countries. day Saints obeyed President Kimball’s request to pray that the nations of the world would open their doors to the preach- ing of the gospel. President Monson was instrumental in at Liv e rpoo l , by Ken B axte r e Saint s at of th Embarkation R I g h t: of S amue l H. mit h , by d. j. bawden; statue Left: the construction of the Freiberg Germany Temple. He witnessed the opening of many countries

38 Ensign  “I would ask that your faith and prayers continue to be offered in

d Picku p Photogra p hs by Davi behalf of those areas where our influence is lim- Left and above: The Gadfield Elm chapel in Malvern, ited and where we England, is the first and oldest Latter-day Saint chapel. In 1840 Elder Wilford Woodruff converted the 600 members are not allowed of the United Brethren who met here. They donated their chapel to the Church, and it became the focal point of to share the gospel missionary work in the area. Later they sold it to help pay freely at this time. for local members to gather to Zion. Miracles can occur as we do so.” President Thomas S. Monson, “Welcome to Conference,” Liahona­ and ­Ensign, Nov. 2009, 6.

The ship Ellen Maria prepares to sail British Isles. Emigration was possible as they would repay the loan so others from Liverpool, England, for America the result of the Perpetual Emigrating could emigrate. Thousands of converts on February 1, 1851. At the time, over Fund, which loaned money to impover- emigrated to join the Saints in 50,000 Latter-day Saints lived in the ished Latter-day Saints on the promise America.

July 2010 39  Many “isles of the sea” were among places where the gospel began to take root in the 19th century. Far left: The site of this 1882 meetinghouse in Hawaii became the site of the Laie Hawaii Temple, which was finished in 1919 (left).Below left: After missionaries went to New Zealand in 1854, the gospel blossomed. Below: This replica of Stela 5—one of 80 to the gospel after the monuments in Izapa, Chiapas, Mexico—is known as the fall of the Berlin Wall in Tree-of-Life Stone. Some have 1989. 3 suggested that it might depict Lehi’s dream (see 1 Nephi 8). He and all latter-

day prophets since the Left: Photograph of 1882 meetinghouse courtesy of Church history museum; Above: The Promise, by Al Rounds; Below left: Building Now for Eternity, by Sylvia Huege de Serville, Fourth International Restoration of the gospel Art Competition; Below: Lehi’s Dream, by Araceli Andrade, Seventh International Art Competition know that these words written by the Prophet Joseph Smith in March 1842 are true: “The Standard of Truth has been erected; no unhal- lowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every

40 Ensign Right: In the 1960s many in Nigeria and Ghana gained testimonies by reading Church literature. When missionaries I Believed arrived in 1978, hundreds of n 1964 Joseph William Africans were ready to be bap- tized. Within a year, some 1,700 IBilly Johnson read people had been baptized and the testimony of the confirmed. Prophet Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon and found them to be the true word of God. Soon he was constrained by the Spirit to go from door-to-door sharing the message. Eventually he built up 10 con- gregations with over 1,000 believers. In June 1978 he had a strong impression to listen to the British Broadcasting Corporation on the radio. He recalled, “I heard the message of President Spencer W. Kimball that all worthy males in the world could receive the priest- hood. I burst into tears of joy.”

See E. Dale LeBaron, “Steadfast African Pioneer,” ­Ensign, Dec. 1999, 45.

Top: Photograph of Nigerian baptisms in 1978 by Janath Cannon; Above: Ordination in Sierra Leone by Latter-day Saints, by Emile Wilson; Right: Baptism in Sierra Leone, by Emile Wilson

July 2010 41 Left: The colors and textures of this City Guatemala Temple. Below: embroidery capture the energy of the Today more than 1,500 members tremendous growth of the Church in live in Poland, a country profoundly Mexico, Central America, and South affected by World War II. Their testi- America over the past 50 years. These monies are rooted in the same beliefs members love the Book of Mormon as are all Latter-day Saints’—such as and are drawn to the temple, the First Vision (depicted below by a represented here by the Guatemala Polish artist).

country, and sounded in every ear, till the pur- poses of God shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done.” 4 Let us unite our faith and prayers so that areas now closed will open and miracles will occur

as we accept the chal- t lenge from President Monson. ◼ t ional A r : P ho t o g raph of residen Notes 1. Spencer W. Kimball, ay no t be c opied; t Co m pe i ion, ay t ion o f R u ssia, by Em in Z ulfu g arov

“When the World Will Be Top RIg h t ; Converted,” Ensign­ , Oct. m : De d ica

1974, 3. t ional A r 2. See “Status Report on ory Museu ory Missionary Work: A t is H t h I n erna

Conversation with Elder h Thomas S. Monson, c Chairman of the Missionary Committee of the Council

of the Twelve,” Ensign,­ Oct. Chur of esy t 1977, 8. our 3. See Garold and Norma c by Juelin g Chen, F our yl, yl, Davis, “Behind the Wall: t

The Church in Eastern m useu ; Righ t t esy of c hur h his ory Germany,” Tambuli, Feb. 1992, 12; Ensign­ , Apr. 1991, 22. 4. History of the Church, 4:540. a d ing M issiona r ies , 5. “President Hinckley Visits Asian Saints, Dedicates Hong Kong Temple,” Ensign, Aug. 1996, 74. ; Top c en t er: Un f ; t van A by Januza Mos Januza by : Joseph S mi t h’s Fi r s Vision, issionaries in Japan c our : P ho t o g raph of m issionaries in Japan , by Maria Gladis B arrien t os de Mon erroso, Third I n erna : The Lamani t es B l ossom Like he Rose in Dese rt ar R i g h t Gerry H in c kley by Gerry Top F Co m pe t i ion; L ef Top lef t

42 Ensign Japan: THe Church grows in Asia t a fireside in Tokyo, A Japan, in 1996, President Gordon B. Hinckley told members about the visit of Elder Heber J. Grant, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, to Japan in 1901: “He and three other mission- aries . . . went to a quiet and secluded place and dedicated Japan for the preaching of the gospel.” After noting the growth of the Church in Japan (home to more than 123,000 mem- bers today), President Hinckley said, “If President Grant were here now, he would weep with gratitude.” 5

Top: Asians celebrated the 1996 visit showing how the gospel can work in Above: Elder Francis M. Lyman, of President Gordon B. Hinckley any culture. Top right: Elder Heber J. an Apostle, gathered with other and his wife, Marjorie. Top center: Grant (center), with missionaries, Church leaders in August 1903 in Asian and Latter-day Saint images dedicated Japan for missionary work St. Petersburg, Russia, to dedicate surround these Taiwanese members, at this site on September 1, 1901. Russia for the preaching of the gospel.

July 2010 43  i ons by Gre gg T horkelson Illustrat 44 Ensign 

By Elder M. Russell Ballard Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Sharing the Gospel with Confidence We don’t have to defend or justify anything when we base our position on the teachings of the Son of God and do our best to keep His commandments.

e are in a titanic struggle. From language in terms that suggest they are expect- the dawn of mankind’s history, it ing criticism. Whas always been so. Good and evil This was not the first time I had heard that have always been with us and so has the right kind of observation. But the more I have thought to choose between them. I want to share some about it, the more I understand how easy it is, if thoughts about standing firm for the truth. we are not careful, to convey a sense of defen- Recently I saw some research about how siveness in our communication with others. other people see members of The Church of I think I understand something of the rea- Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have long sons. From the time Joseph Smith walked out been interested in this subject because I have of the Sacred Grove in the spring of 1820, there had a lot to do with missionary work in my have been those who have reacted negatively, Church assignments. Knowing how people even with hostility, to our message. Joseph see us is an important part of understanding tells us in his own words that the first time how best to explain ourselves. This particular he attempted to share what he had seen with piece of research made an interesting observa- someone outside the family, it wasn’t a pleas- tion. It suggested that members of the Church ant experience. The Protestant minister with sometimes appear very defensive to those who whom he shared his message told him that it are not members of the Church. One respon- “was all of the devil” and “that there were no dent went as far as to say that when Mormons such things as visions or revelations” anymore are explaining their beliefs, they couch their ( Joseph Smith—History 1:21).

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If Joseph thought that was bad, it was because he they should, and I hope and pray that in our relative com- hadn’t yet realized the relentless power of the adver- fort we will never forget those sturdy and faithful Latter- sary. The more the Church grew, the more it seemed day Saints and the lessons we can learn from them. to attract hostility. The small band of faithful Saints was And yet this isn’t 1830, and there aren’t just six of us driven from one place to another. It must have seemed to anymore. Could part of the defensiveness that others Joseph that it could not get much worse than the gover- sometimes see in us suggest that we still expect to be nor of Missouri issuing an extermination order against treated as a disliked minority, forced to flee to the West? In members of the Church, followed by the Prophet’s and our interactions with others, are we expecting always to others’ terrible suffering at Liberty Jail. Of course, it did have to defend ourselves? If so, I think we need to make get worse, and Joseph and Hyrum paid for their work, a course correction. Constantly anticipating criticism or testimonies, and faith with their lives. That was the final objections can lead to an unhealthy self-consciousness and act that launched the great trek west, led by Brigham a defensive posture that doesn’t resonate well with others. Young, across the American wilderness to a place of ref- It is inconsistent with where we are today as a church and uge among the Rocky Mountains of the United States. as a great body of followers of Jesus Christ. Latter-day Saint stories of hardship and sacrifice are now an indelible part of history. Even converts to the Church Look to the Savior’s Example who had no ancestors who survived those times embrace As in all things, we can look to the Savior as our exem- the people and events of our early history as part of their plar. He faced tremendous hostility from the outset of His own heritage. The stories both inspire and motivate us, as ministry. When He first preached in the synagogues at Nazareth, some wanted to throw Him off a cliff (see Luke 4:28–29). Yet He did not allow Himself to be intimidated. He knew that for the most part He would be misun- derstood. Yet He was fearless in declaring His gospel, using such phrases as “Ye have heard that it was said . . . , but I say unto you . . .” (Matthew 5:21–22). He knew what He wanted to say, and He said it without apology. As the scriptures say, “He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes” (Matthew 7:29). If we want to be respected today for who we are, then we need to act confidently—secure in the knowledge of who we are and what we stand for and not as if we

46 Ensign 

had to apologize for our beliefs. That doesn’t more common for people in the country to mean we should be arrogant or overbearing. know a Latter-day Saint personally. In addi- Respect for others’ views should always be a tion, many members of the Church have basic principle for us—it’s built right into the achieved social prominence. A recent Time Articles of Faith (see Articles of Faith 1:11). magazine article about the Church noted this But when we act as if we are a persecuted fact and ran several photographs of promi- minority or as if we expect to be misunder- nent Latter-day Saints. 1 stood or criticized, people will sense it and This prominence alone ensures that the respond accordingly. Church is going to be talked about more and I invite returned missionaries to be espe- more and that Latter-day Saints are going to cially sensitive to this. find themselves in more You spent two years and more gospel dis- knocking on doors cussions. We need to be and dealing with every If we want to be respected today honest, open, forthright, conceivable question for who we are, then we need to engaging, respectful of and objection. It is act confidently—secure in the others’ views, and com- easy in your conver- pletely nondefensive knowledge of who we are and sations to think you about our own. are still knocking on what we stand for. Here are two sug- doors. You’re not. If gestions for how to you are in a position engage in conversations to share what you nondefensively. believe, there’s no need to tread so carefully that you look like you are being evasive or 1. Don’t let irrelevant issues drown out anticipating criticism. The Apostle Paul said, more important subjects. “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” Our Church members have often allowed (Romans 1:16), and neither should any of others to set the conversational agenda. An us be. I look forward and greatly appreci- example is plural marriage. This ended in the ate every opportunity I have to share my Church as an official practice in 1890. It’s now testimony of the marvelous message of the 2010. Why are we still talking about it? It was Restoration. And I cannot ever remember a practice. It ended. We moved on. If people offending anyone in the process. ask you about polygamy, just acknowledge One of the reasons that this subject is that it was once a practice but not now and relevant today is because the Church is that people shouldn’t confuse any polygamists getting stronger. In the United States, we with our church. In ordinary conversations, are now the fourth largest church. Latter- don’t waste time trying to justify the practice day Saints are everywhere—in communities of polygamy during Old Testament times or from coast to coast and from north to south. speculating as to why it was practiced for a While our numbers may be more concen- time in the 19th century. Those may be legit- trated in the West, it is becoming more and imate topics for historians and scholars, but

July 2010 47 

I think we simply reinforce the stereotypes or affiliated business, which was being actively when we make it a primary topic of conversa- promoted among some of our members: tions about the Church. “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day I realize that sometimes these conversations Saints as an institution does not call for boy- are triggered by stories that appear in the cotts. Such a step would simply generate the media. That doesn’t change anything. In 2009 kind of controversy that the media loves and a cable TV network series about polygamists in the end would increase audiences for the depicted the sacred temple ceremony. That series. . . . Latter-day Saints should conduct portrayal caused great concern among Church themselves with dignity and thoughtfulness. members, which is understandable. We were “Not only is this the model that Jesus Christ all offended by it. taught and demon- But I refer you to an strated in His own life, article in response to but it also reflects the that depiction that was The most important thing reality of the strength placed by the Public about us and our testimony is and maturity of Church Affairs Department of that we base our beliefs on what members today. . . . the Church on its news- “If the Church Jesus Christ taught and that room Web site. As I allowed critics and quote from it, notice the we try to follow Him. opponents to choose the tone. There is nothing ground on which its bat- defensive about it, yet tles are fought, it would it responds to an inap- risk being distracted propriate portrayal of one of our most sacred from the focus and mission it has pursued religious ceremonies: successfully for nearly 180 years. Instead, the “Like other large faith groups, The Church Church itself will determine its own course as of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints some- it continues to preach the restored gospel of times finds itself on the receiving end of Jesus Christ throughout the world.” 2 attention from Hollywood or Broadway, tele­ Here’s another example. In 2007 an inde- vision series or books, and the news media. pendent film producer released a movie about Sometimes depictions of the Church and the Mountain Meadows Massacre. To describe its people are quite accurate. Sometimes this as a really bad movie would be generous. the images are false or play to stereotypes. Frankly, it was just awful—even Hollywood Occasionally, they are in appallingly bad taste. critics panned it. The promoters did every- “As Catholics, Jews and Muslims have thing they could to provoke the Church into known for centuries, such attention is inevita- making it a major topic of conversation. In ble once an institution or faith group reaches fact, we completely ignored it. We refused to a size or prominence sufficient to attract allow them to set the agenda. The result was notice.” a big flop at the box office and a lot of red ink The article then goes on to discourage the in the producer’s bank account. Meanwhile, idea of an organized boycott of the network we continue to respond to and reach out in

48 Ensign 

constructive and intelligent ways with the descendants His teachings. As we follow His doctrine, we come to of those who were involved in those terrible events at know that all of us are the children of God and that He Mountain Meadows. loves us. By following Christ, we know where we came Recently Oxford University Press published a well- from before our birth, we know our purpose for being researched book titled Massacre at Mountain Meadows here on the earth, and we know where we will go when that documents the facts surrounding this tragedy. we leave this earth life. The plan of salvation is clear; it is God’s plan for the eternal happiness of His children. 2. Emphasize that Latter-day Saints teach and live There are commandments that God has given us to live. what Jesus Christ taught and that we try to follow They are His commandments, and no one is authorized Him. to change them except it be by direct revelation to God’s When all is said and done, the most important thing chosen prophet. about us and our testimony is that we base our beliefs People throughout the world are drifting further and on what Jesus Christ taught and that we try to follow Him further away from the teachings of the Lord toward a secu- by living our life in a way acceptable to Him and to our lar society that the Apostle Paul described: Heavenly Father. “For the time will come when they will not endure This is our foundation. It was Joseph Smith’s founda- sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap tion. He said, “The fundamental principles of our religion to themselves teachers, having itching ears; are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concern- “And they shall turn away their ears from the truth” ing Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again (2 Timothy 4:3–4). the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.” 3 Whenever we are having a con- versation about the Church, we should try to make this a point. We follow Jesus Christ. We try to live as He taught. That’s the basis of our faith and our lives, and that’s the strongest nondefensive position we can take. We don’t have to defend or justify anything when we base our position on the teachings of the Son of God and do our best to keep His commandments. It is a great blessing to have the doctrines of Jesus Christ, which are clear to those who study the scriptures and embrace

July 2010 49  Youth Save Kathy By Darwin Richardson n January 1976, I received a telephone call differences, I knew that she didn’t yet know Ifrom a friend who worked for social services. enough about the Church to defend it. I He asked if my wife and I would be willing to decided to bring another guest, Richard Jones, take in a foster child. At the time we had two who had just returned from his mission. young children of our own, but we agreed to The day of “Save Kathy” night was a day of open up our home to 17-year-old Kathy. fasting and prayer for all of us. I prayed that Soon after arriving in our home, Kathy the Spirit would be present at the meeting and asked if she could attend church with us. that there would be no contention. Of course we said yes, and soon Kathy was When we arrived at the church that evening, attending church regularly. Many of Kathy’s we sensed some animosity, but the youth friends from her former congregation noticed minister welcomed us warmly and invited us her absence, and they were unhappy to find to tell the group about the Church and our out that she was attending the LDS Church. beliefs. As Richard shared what was then One day after school, Kathy told us that her the first missionary discussion and taught former church was planning to stage a “Save about the Restoration, the 15 or so young Kathy” night for their youth ministry meeting. people in the room listened carefully. Even Kathy asked if I would accompany her to that the youth minister was captivated. meeting and help her defend the Church. I We then spent the rest of the evening reluctantly agreed because although I didn’t answering questions and having a wonderful want to argue with her friends about doctrinal discussion about the gospel. The animosity we

Today is the time Paul saw. There is an ever-growing them in a spirit of love and kindness. The truth always number of people who believe that there is no God, no prevails when true doctrine is taught. Christ, no plan of redemption, no Atonement, no repen- Here are a few examples: tance, no forgiveness, no life after death, no resurrection, 1. We follow Jesus Christ’s doctrine of service to our no eternal life, and no eternal families sealed together fellowman. We serve members of our Church as forever. well as those who are not. The great work we do in How empty life must be without the blessings of the humanitarian service throughout the world relieves fulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. As Latter-day suffering and hardship. We do all we can in sharing Saints, we follow Jesus Christ. We know the plan of happi- our resources of time and money to meet the needs ness, the great plan of redemption through the Lord Jesus of both our members and those of other faiths, recog- Christ. We know the doctrines of Jesus Christ. We must nizing that “inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of strive now and always to live by them. Upon the Church’s the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto younger generation will rest the responsibility to teach the me” (Matthew 25:40). doctrines of the Lord and to know how to build up His 2. We follow Jesus Christ’s doctrine of striving to live Church. Please remember that you do not need to feel that the Word of Wisdom, which is a sound way to enjoy you must justify your beliefs; you simply need to explain a healthy physical body. We avoid drug abuse of all

50 Ensign 

had felt at first quickly subsided as we calmly between one man and one woman. This explained our beliefs. There was respect on commandment has been in place from the both sides. The Holy Ghost filled the room as very beginning. God said, “Therefore shall we shared our testimonies and responded to a man leave his father and his mother, questions. and shall cleave unto his wife: and they At the end of the discussion, the minister shall be one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). God thanked us for coming. Then, as we turned instructed Adam and Eve to “be fruitful, to leave, a young woman rose and said she and multiply, and replenish the earth, and wanted to tell us something. She said that subdue it” (Genesis 1:28). before we came, she didn’t think Mormons Modern-day prophets and apostles were Christians, but now she believed we reaffirmed this command in “The Family: A might have been better Christians than she was. Proclamation to the World,” issued in 1995: We could not have scripted a better ending “God has commanded that the sacred to our discussion. I know the meeting would powers of procreation are to be employed never have gone so well if we had not fasted only between man and woman, lawfully and prayed, pleaded for the Spirit to be present, wedded as husband and wife. . . . and petitioned the Lord that there be no con- “The family is ordained of God. Marriage tention. Only with the Holy Spirit present can between man and woman is essential to we be effective in sharing the gospel message. His eternal plan.” 4 5. We follow Jesus Christ and teach the first principles of the gospel and all of the other wonderful doctrines of the Restoration that, when embraced and lived, bring peace, joy, and happiness to the sons and daughters of kinds because our bodies house our eternal God. It is just this simple. spirits and because happiness in this life May God bless us in our pursuits for happi- is obtained by being spiritually strong and ness by knowing and following the teachings physically healthy. of the Lord Jesus Christ and by engaging oth- 3. We follow Jesus Christ by living the law ers in conversations about the restored gospel of chastity. God gave this commandment, without being offensive. ◼ and He has never revoked or changed it. From a commencement address delivered at Brigham This law is clear and simple. No one is Young University on August 13, 2009. For the full text in English, visit www.newsroom.lds.org (click on “News to engage in sexual relationships outside Releases & Stories”).

the bounds the Lord has set. This applies Notes 1. See David Van Biema, “The Church and Gay Marriage: to homosexual behavior of any kind and Are Mormons Misunderstood?” Time, June 22, 2009, to heterosexual relationships outside of 49–53. 2. “The Publicity Dilemma,” newsroom.lds.org/ marriage. It is a sin to violate the law of ldsnewsroom/eng/commentary/the-publicity-dilemma; emphasis added. chastity. 3. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith 4. We follow Jesus Christ by adhering to (2007), 49. 4. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Liahona,­ God’s law of marriage, which is marriage Oct. 2004, 49; Ensign,­ Nov. 1995, 102.

July 2010 51 Gospel Classics

the foundation for success and What Did the happiness. . . . They brought education and a love for the artistic and beautiful. . . . They brought with them a high order of loyalty and a great Pioneers capacity for firm devotion to the cause they espoused. . . . I come now to the greatest thing of all which the pioneers brought with them, and that I Bring? characterize as wisdom, wisdom about the important things in President Stephen L Richards was born on life. . . . June 18, 1879, in Mendon, Utah. He was called First, consider the body of as an Apostle in 1917 and as First Counselor man. . . . The pioneers brought a in the First Presidency in 1951. The following new concept of the body which is an excerpt of an address he delivered at the invested it with sacred signif- April 1947 general conference, 100 years after icance. They taught that the the pioneers’ arrival in the Salt Lake Valley. body is the earthly tabernacle wherein the spirit of man, the literal child of God, is housed By President Stephen L Richards (1879–1959) and that the body cannot be First Counselor in the First Presidency defiled or polluted or otherwise o understand the pioneers came with the avowed purpose abused by taking into it poi- and their accomplish- of establishing a society so that sons and deleterious substances Tments, we must examine they would be able to take back without offering affront to God, their motives. . . . They came for to the civilization from which whose Spirit dwells therein. . . . freedom and peace, as oth- they had fled, yes, even to their They brought with them a code ers have done. They came to persecutors, the principles of of health rules. . . . make homes for themselves, as life and conduct which were Second—character or person- others have done. They came the source of their own inspi- ality. . . . [The pioneers] taught to worship God and practice ration, cohesion, success, and not only that man is the child of their religion to the satisfaction happiness. . . . God, of the most noble lineage of their consciences, as others What then did the pioneers but that he is destined also, if he have done; but here is one thing bring? They brought industry lives for it, to be associated with they came for which, so far as I in a measure that has seldom his Heavenly Father in carrying know, has no counterpart in any been equaled. They taught and forth His eternal works in all time

other pioneer movement: they practiced the gospel of work as to come. . . . Mann i on by Paul Illustrat Next—the family. . . . What The greatest a basic unit for happy life and peace lay in the extension of was the wisdom the pioneers thing of all progress here on this earth this doctrine of brotherhood brought about the family? Why, which the but that it constitutes also the throughout the world. . . . pioneers they invested it with the noblest very foundation of our hope . . . These wise contributions brought with and most exalted attributes for supreme exaltation in the them [was] of which I speak and many which have ever come to it wisdom. celestial kingdom of our God. more were but principles of in all the history of the world. Indeed, the heaven we seek is the gospel of the Lord Jesus They taught that it is not only little more than the projection Christ which had been restored of our homes into eternity. How through the Prophet Joseph at variance with these lofty Smith. . . . It was because of the concepts of home and pioneers’ implicit faith in this family are the tragic evils transcendent message of life and in domestic life today— truth that they established the divorce, broken homes, Lord’s house in “the top of the neglected, wayward mountains” [Isaiah 2:2]. It was a children more to be pitied great thing to set up a common- than abused because of the wealth and transform a desert disintegration of family life. into cities, towns, and villages . . . Oh, if the wisdom which with the homes, schools, and these humble pioneers facilities we now enjoy. It was a brought could only find vastly greater accomplishment application in the families to establish the kingdom of God of the world, what a boon it and send forth from Zion that would be to the comfort and salutary message of hope and the happiness and the prog- faith and divine, eternal wisdom ress of humanity. to all mankind. This was the Lastly, . . . brotherhood. real heritage our noble pioneers They taught, in the most brought with them and left to realistic way, the concept of us and our friends. . . . It is the all nations, kindreds, tongues, most precious gift in life. God and peoples belonging to help us to prize it, to live it, and the family of God. . . . They to spread it. ◼ believed . . . that the only Punctuation, spelling, and capitalization substantial hope for universal modernized.

July 2010 53 

Road Warriors & Strong Families Road warriors aren’t anything new, but to a family facing work-related travel, particularly for an extended period, the separation is very real—and potentially disrupting. How princi- ples from The Family: A Proclamation to the World are helping these road-warrior families.

By Melissa Merrill childhood hometown in New Zealand—the Larsens wel- Church Magazines comed the opportunity to put down roots. ith 35 work-related moves in their 28 years They also knew that the position would bring a different of marriage, Ross and Lyndy Larsen had long set of challenges: Ross’s work would require him to be at Waccepted their mobile lifestyle and embraced sea four months at a time, followed by a two-month vaca- the opportunities it gave them and their children to experi- tion period at the end of each assignment. Ross maintained ence a variety of cultures. Yet when Ross was offered a that work schedule for four years. Today, he works full-time new job in 2004 as a cruise-ship executive—a prospect that in New Zealand, but the family is grateful for the time they

would allow their family to settle permanently in Lyndy’s spent in their less-than-traditional circumstances. Although Henr i e i ons by Cary Illustrat

54 Ensign 

they realize that their situation was not necessarily ideal, they [Thomas S.] Monson and former airline captain President say it provided them great opportunities for learning and [Dieter F.] Uchtdorf. They are great examples to me.” growth, particularly as they focused on developing family Rob Barlow of Michigan, USA, travels extensively as a relationships. software sales executive. Although he and his wife, Lori, “We realize the sacredness of the family unit and how had worried about the potential to grow together spiritu- essential it is to our eternal progression,” says Lyndy. ally as a couple, the Barlows have found that spiritual “Gospel principles, especially those found in ‘The Family: A impressions aren’t limited by distance. Proclamation to the World,’ have provided us a strong foun- “One of the most significant experiences of our lives dation on which we continue to build. We did not think of happened while I was on a business trip in France,” Rob our situation as a stumbling block to progress, rather as an recalls. “There were some situations in our lives, including opportunity to make a concerted effort to put into practice a job change, that would affect our family, that we needed gospel principles our Savior, Jesus Christ, taught. to think about. After reading the scriptures and praying “We have felt His love and His tender mercies toward us about what needed to happen, that spark of revelation individually and have taken comfort in the realization that came. Because of the time difference, I had to wait a few He is aware of our situation and will always be there to hours before I could call Lori and share with her what I give us strength. We have learned from this experience just had found, but when I did, I learned that she had felt a how much we love and need Him.” similar feeling, and we knew what we needed to do.” Throughout the world, families like the Larsens are cling- Being able to share faith-building practices and faith- ing to gospel principles to help them make the most of work- promoting experiences, the Barlows say, has helped them related separation situations. Here, members share how “faith, maintain strong ties as a couple and as a family. prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities” 1 are helping Prayer them build strong families. Jim Potts of Idaho, USA, works as an insurance exam- iner and travels throughout the United States perform- Faith ing his duties. He and his wife, Kayleen, have found that Brian Daems of Utah, USA, works as a corporate pilot, a communication—not only with each other but also with job that requires him to fly internationally for up to 10 days the Lord—is essential in keeping their relationship strong. at a time. His work takes him from home 14 days per month, “We communicate every day through e-mail,” Kayleen says. on average. He and his wife, Lisa, have found that one of the “Every night before I go to bed, I write Jim a good-morning best ways “to keep the family and home running” is staying e-mail so that when he wakes up and logs onto his computer, faithful with family prayer, family home evening, and family he has a message from me. We also talk on the phone every scripture study. The couple works to maintain these practices night. It’s then that we hold scripture study and pray together.” with their three young children whether Brian is at home or not. She has also made a consistent effort in her personal “I want to do all I can to make our family relationship prayers. “This helps us feel the Spirit in our home so that it is strong because it is more important than business, travel, a peaceful and calm place.” That, she says, makes a tremen- or money and will last forever if we follow the Lord’s com- dous difference, particularly when her husband is on the mands,” Brian says. “I know many other men who travel road and she might otherwise feel nervous. extensively and are still able to be good fathers and husbands “We have found that out of our small efforts come big and fulfill their church assignments effectively. I admire things, and that often the small things touch hearts so these fine men, as well as well-traveled leaders like President much more than the great big ones,” Kayleen says.

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repentance and forgiveness are for. And with each assign- ment, we’re doing better than we did with the last.” Fronica points out that the principle of forgiveness has also helped her outside the family. Occasionally, when someone has made an insensitive comment about her husband’s vol- unteering to take certain work assignments or critical remarks about her being at home with their children, she has found it helpful to give the person the benefit of the doubt. “They probably don’t know our circumstances like we do,” she says. “I have learned to realize that most people wouldn’t say the things they sometimes say if they understood better.”

Respect Kayleen Potts says that it’s important for her to show her husband respect not only by how she interacts and corresponds with him directly but also by what she says to others about their circumstances. “Instead of moaning and groaning about being apart, be grateful to have a job,” she

Many families use phone calls, Webcams, and text messaging to stay close while one family member is on the road. Keeping in touch this way can help families maintain gospel-centered practices, express love, and stay connected.

Repentance and Forgiveness recommends. “It’s not helpful for me to take on a woe-is- Luke and Fronica Saurman of England have dealt with me attitude or to feel like I’m being neglected or to com- periods of extended absence for six of the eight years plain to others. It is helpful to recognize that this kind of they’ve been married. Luke’s assignment with the United work is what my husband does best and to be grateful that States Department of Defense requires a lot of travel, much he’s able to make a living doing something he’s good at.” of which can be long term and scheduled with short notice. By pointing out the positive aspects of their family’s circum- “I think attitudes of selflessness and service help both stances, Kayleen helps everyone feel optimistic. Her husband, of us,” says Luke. Thinking only of yourself can trap you in Jim, says, “Knowing that Kayleen is supportive of what I do despair, he says, but “if you look outward and especially makes an otherwise difficult time of separation more bearable.” upward, problems are forgotten or at least minimized.” He’s quick to acknowledge that repentance and forgive- Love ness are critical elements in his family’s lifestyle, just as Three months after they married, Dave and Lalove Foster they are for all families. “With each separation, Fronica and of Idaho, USA, faced their first major absence from each I both make mistakes with the way we interact with each other. Due to David’s military obligations, the couple spent other. For her, it gets difficult with heightened tensions the next year and a half apart. of being at home alone with three children, or for me, “It was really important that we keep in close contact,” being in a combat situation. We may say or do things out Lalove explains. “I wrote him e-mails almost daily, some- of exhaustion or in an overheated moment. That’s what times more than that. I told him about what I was doing

56 Ensign 

and funny little things that happened during my day; even the “frustration and exhaustion” each was experiencing. little things are important because they really make you The couple knew that it was important to talk about their feel like you’re a part of the other person’s life.” respective challenges, but they also decided that they’d each Regular e-mailing helped the couple express their love, try “to have two or three things to talk about that didn’t Lalove says, and as a result, she says she has felt a greater involve the stresses of traveling,” Heather says. “These have appreciation for her husband. “Even though it was a tough included interesting things my husband has seen in his vari- way to start our marriage, in some ways it was good. ous destinations, something funny our children have done, When Dave came home and we really settled into mar- and insights we’ve had in our recent scripture study.” ried life, we both had a deeper appreciation and Showing compassion by focusing conversation not only gratitude for each other. on challenges but on interesting, positive subjects helped “Being apart made both David and me grateful for the improve the couple’s communication during periods of sealing power and the opportunity the Savior has given separation as well as in general. “My love for Darin and us to be together forever. While David was living in a war what we know about marriage makes me want to work at zone, we were so grateful to know that no matter what, maintaining our relationship,” Heather continues. “Darin because of the Savior, we would be able to see each other feels the same way. We know that our relationship is deeper again. This huge comfort allowed faith to replace our fears.” than this job, this year, this life—it reaches into the eterni- Expressions of love can help cement not only husband- ties. If we feel as though we are losing connection, we sit wife relationships but also parent-child relationships. down with each other and discuss things we can do that

Many families use phone calls, Webcams, and text messaging to stay close while one family member is on the road. Keeping in touch this way can help families maintain gospel-centered practices, express love, and stay connected.

Before Brian Daems leaves on a work trip, he likes to write “I love you” on several sticky notes. He then hides the notes throughout the house for his family to find. “When we visit on the phone, the children are excited to report how many notes they found and where they found them,” Brian says. Likewise, he often finds cards and drawings from his family in his suitcase, and occasionally, his wife and children will fax “I love you” messages to his hotel. “These fun surprises brighten my day instantly. As we work to come up with ideas and then carry them out, it strengthens our love for each other,” Brian says.

Compassion Darin Palmer of Kentucky, USA, began traveling early in his career, when he and his wife, Heather, had two small children. Adjusting to the schedule was hard on their whole family, Heather says, and often when she and Darin would talk at night, conversation would center on

July 2010 57 

could work better for us and works as a commercial air- for our children. As we have line pilot, says, “When Lance worked together and looked to is gone, I have to make the the Lord to find solutions and ‘everyday’ decisions by myself. remain positive, we have felt When he is back in town, I our relationship with each other have to remember that he and with the Savior grow.” is there and to include him. However, the ‘important’ deci- Work sions concerning our family Most people who live with have already been made, and frequent travel as a normal whether he is there or not, our aspect of their lives will agree family tries to implement those that it takes a great deal of work, both during separation and decisions. They include attending our church meetings after a reunion. Ross and Lyndy Larsen found that technol- and having family prayer, family scripture study, and family ogy played a helpful role in the work they did while Ross home evening. By practicing those aspects of the gospel, was at sea. Using Webcams, text messaging, e-mail, and I can make those ‘everyday’ decisions and stay focused on phone calls, the Larsens were able to discuss important fam- what is really important—our relationship with each other ily matters. For instance, Lyndy would ask for her husband’s as a family and knowing and loving our Savior.” thoughts on how to move forward with a family concern or The Weavers’ children are now grown, and LuAnn plan. “Even when I was away, I could still participate in fam- acknowledges that looking back, much of the work of ily affairs,” Ross notes. raising their children seems relatively easy. “However, LuAnn Weaver of Utah, USA, whose husband, Lance, when you’re in the middle of it all, it’s difficult. But it was

Help from Our Ward Family say they didn’t do much, their service By Laurie Ellington was huge to me because they did things y husband serves in the United They came each month and gave me a I could not have done or would have MStates military and was recently message and helped in a variety of ways. found difficult to do for myself. deployed to Afghanistan for a year. They moved a heavy bookcase, replaced In addition to my wonderful home Before his departure, he did all he could hard-to-reach lightbulbs, and even teachers, other good members of our to prepare our home and me so that all organized the Young Men and their ward took it upon themselves to serve would be well while he was gone. He leaders to do some work in our backyard our family in my husband’s absence: taught me how to turn off the water to prepare it for some landscaping I was A neighbor brought his 12-year-old and the air conditioner and even the doing. The home teachers came one son over on snowy mornings to shovel gas in case there happened to be an night to rescue our house when a water my walk and driveway. That same son emergency. He informed ward leader- hose sprang a leak and filled the kitchen took care of mowing and edging each ship of his departure. He asked them to with water. They came later to replace week in the summer. take care of me and of our family. He the same hose! My visiting teachers A brother took care of some drywall shared the same things with our good were great too. They came every month mudding in the kitchen. home teachers. to visit and cried with me if I was having Another offered to do some other Our home teachers were wonderful. a bad day. And though these people finish work. He spent several hours and

58 Ensign 

important that we worked together to establish the gospel this world matters more than our family relationships. as a way of life. It has blessed our lives, and now as we They are what the plan of salvation is all about.” see our children raising families of their own, it is a joy to Ashley and her husband, Kyle, are now raising their see them teaching their children of our Savior and practic- own family. Though Kyle doesn’t travel frequently, work- ing the gospel.” ing full time and attending school part time mean long hours away from home. “The time our children and I get Wholesome Recreational Activities with him is precious,” Ashley adds. But the Isenbargers One of the Weavers’ children, Ashley Isenbarger of make family recreation a priority so that as their children Utah, USA, says that she never felt that she was short- grow, “they will have good times to remember and will changed because of her dad’s work schedule. That, she expect that family comes first.” says, is due to the emphasis her parents placed on family Ross Larsen appreciates that same kind of attitude in his togetherness. “I didn’t grow up thinking our situation was family. “I enjoyed my assignments at sea, but I really love difficult,” she says. “In my eyes, it was normal. And while my time spent at home with the family,” he says. “Our time my dad’s schedule was hard some months, there were together is a priority. We celebrated birthdays, even if it good things about it too.” was after the actual date. We’d go to the temple. We’d play For instance, when Lance was home during the sum- together. We’d talk about the future.” mer months, the family would often go biking or swim- It has been through these activities, Lyndy says, that fam- ming, during the daytime. “Those kinds of family activities ily love has become more evident and easier to feel. The wouldn’t have been possible if Dad had had a typical principles outlined in “The Family: A Proclamation to the 9-to-5 job,” Ashley points out. “I’m grateful my parents real- World” have become not just ideals but a way of life. ◼ ized our time together was precious—we just had to use it Note differently than most families. I know that nothing else in 1. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102.

days trimming and edging areas in the not assigned as my home teachers, house that could have waited for my stopped by after they had visited the husband’s return, but how wonderful families to whom they were assigned, to have it finished when he got home! asking what they could do to help. Several sisters in the ward gave me a My ward family was truly my family hug every time they saw me. It is amaz- while my husband was away. They were ing what a hug can do for someone willing to serve me, and it seemed that who is missing a loved one. they truly enjoyed helping. A number of members prayed for us. My husband is home now. It was not Both my husband and I felt their prayers. always easy to be alone while he was One brother came and pruned the gone, but my ward family eased the apple trees in our yard. burden and made the deployment go Another replaced dangling lightbulbs by a little more quickly. My husband with beautiful new can lights. and I will be forever grateful for the Then a brother and his son-in-law, ways they helped in his absence. ◼

For additional suggestions from families who face extended, work-related separation, please see Ensign.LDS.org

July 2010 59 

Spiritual Safet y Tips for Frequent Travelers

By Todd Hansen

ike many people, I worked in a career that James E. Faust (1920–2007), second counselor in the First required extensive travel. Although commuting Presidency, noted, “In our uncertain physical environment, Lhad always been a significant job demand, my we need to increase our spiritual nutrients—nutrients that travel gradually increased until it was rare to go more come from the knowledge of the fulness of the gospel and than a few days without boarding an airplane. the powers of the holy priesthood. When such knowledge While I learned to cope with the routine, there were penetrates our souls, we not only draw closer to God but many times I longed to be with family in the safe, familiar we also want to serve Him and our fellowmen.” 1 surroundings of home. I occasion- Following are 11 “spiritual nutrients” that ally found myself going back to a have sustained and fortified me during nearly hotel room at the end of a long day 30 years of frequent travel. tired and lonely. Factors like discouragement, Family Reminders fatigue, loneliness, and the absence Displaying a picture of family or loved ones of family, —along with the cunning in a visible place in a hotel room can serve of Satan—contribute to a high- as a reminder of priorities and of what mat- risk environment that can make us ters most. Not only will the photo make the vulnerable to temptation. President hotel room more inviting, but also can serve Illustrated by S teve Kropp Illustrated 

as a helpful reminder spiritual nutrition. Reading to call home regu- Church magazines larly. Displaying a on an airplane can favorite picture also lead to gospel of the Savior can discussions and also help invite missionary oppor- the Spirit. tunities with fellow travelers. Gospel Study One blessing Prayer of traveling alone is Morning and evening prayers are essen- that the resulting soli- tial spiritual nutrients. In my petitions, I invite the tude invites pondering and Spirit to be with me during the day. I pray for power over reflection. Some of the most treasured spiritual insights I temptation; strength to honor baptismal, priesthood, and have experienced came following gospel study combined temple covenants; and the opportunity to be “an example with prayerful pondering in the quiet of a hotel room. of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in The Scriptures spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). When I travel, I like to carry a small version of the scrip- Regardless of where travel takes me, my wife and I coor- tures in a briefcase or backpack. Placing scriptures near dinate a time to visit by phone and kneel together in prayer. the bed for easy access promotes daily scripture study. We can be continents apart and still feel close to each other Patriarchal Blessings and the Lord when we do this. When our children lived Reading and studying my patriarchal blessing has pro- at home, they also participated. This family tradition has vided understanding and insight that enriches my life. Over richly blessed us over the years. the years I memorized my patriarchal blessing, and on sleep- less nights, rather than turning on the TV, I found it helpful Temple Attendance to recite my patriarchal blessing and ponder its meaning. If travels take you to a location with a temple nearby, Church Publications take advantage of the opportunity to attend Whether on an airplane or in the temple or walk the grounds. a hotel room, Church maga- Although our home is in a sub- zines are an excellent urb of Phoenix, Arizona, USA, source of inspiration for almost five years much and instruction. The of my travel involved com- conference issue of mutes to San Francisco, the Ensign­ is a particu- California, USA. During that larly powerful source of time I attended the Oakland

July 2010 61 

California Temple almost as fre- it can also affect spiritual vigilance. quently as I attended the Mesa Our lives A nutritious diet, on the other hand, Arizona Temple. I found strength Should Not Be promotes spiritual stamina. divided up in visiting the house of the Lord. A Good Night’s Rest anger lurks Participating in sacred temple Retire to bed at a reasonable when we divide ordinances truly encircles us in D hour and allow yourself seven to ourselves with the robes of righteousness (see expressions such as ‘my private life,’ eight hours of sleep (D&C 88:124). 2 Nephi 4:33) and draws us close ‘my professional life,’ or even ‘my best I found it helpful to request a room to Heavenly Father. behavior.’ Living life in separate com- located away from elevators, ice partments can lead to internal conflict machines, and areas with heavy A Healthy Lifestyle and exhausting tension. . . . Inner foot traffic. Rooms tucked away at peace comes only as we maintain the Doctrine and Covenants 89 prom- the end of a hall will likely provide integrity of truth in all aspects of our ises “wisdom and great treasures of lives. When we covenant to follow more peace and quiet. If travel takes knowledge” for obedience to the the Lord and obey His commandments, you to the same location often, find Lord’s law of health, the Word of we accept His standards in every lodging you are comfortable with Wisdom (verse 19). A healthy life- thought, action, and deed.” and stay there each time. Hotel style promotes spiritual nutrition. The Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the personnel will come to know you Twelve Apostles, “Living by Scriptural Guidance,” opposite is also true: the negative ­Ensign, Nov. 2000, 17. and may be in a position to accom- physical effects of an unhealthy life- modate your preferences. style can suppress our ability to hear When falling asleep is difficult, and follow the “still small voice” (1 Nephi 17:45). it may help to recite hymns, poetry, or Regular Exercise scriptures. You might also choose to Physical exercise not only promotes good read a good book or magazine that health, it is also a positive outlet for tension. focuses on a favorite hobby or interest. It may be helpful to engage in a workout Given the nature of some late-night routine that can be easily maintained on programming, I found it best to avoid the road. For example, assuming your turning on the television, particularly pay- health permits it, running can be an excel- per-view channels. Hearing or seeing offensive lent form of exercise. Many hotels include pools programming creates vulnerability to temptation. or exercise rooms, which can help you maintain a balanced exercise program. The Power of Spiritual Nutrients Nutritious Diet Every time I walked out the door during my 27 years of More and more careers require travel involving all- frequent travel, I had the same goal: to return as pure as I was day meetings, hours of sitting, and refreshment breaks when I left. Fortunately, I have found that with a little prepara- that often include an array of high-fat, high-sugar treats. tion and fortification with spiritual nutrients, it is possible for us Evenings are frequently filled with long, late dinners and to invite the Spirit to be with us wherever we go. ◼ additional rich, high-fat food. Overindulging not only Note impacts blood sugar levels and the ability to remain alert, 1. James E. Faust, “Spiritual Nutrients,” Ensign­ , Nov. 2006, 54.

62 Ensign  Investi ng in the G o l d e nYe a r s

Preparing for the near certainty of old age is an important aspect of provident living.

By Lisa Barton with Heather Stock avoid debt and to save money. Sound advice on how to do that can be found at the Web site providentliving.org and in espite the alternative, few of us really look for- a number of Ensign­ articles. 3 ward to old age. But the average life expectancy Putting other temporal affairs in order also makes for a Dcontinues to increase, meaning that old age is not smoother, more peaceful transition into the senior years. only a near certainty, but also that it will last longer. This is For example, Hyrum Orullian had been a savvy busi- not a bad thing if you prepare for it. After all, as the poet nessman, always strong and self-sufficient, and when he Robert Browning wrote of old age, “The best is yet to be.” 1 was healthy he had legal documents prepared express- And President N. Eldon Tanner (1898–1982) observed that ing his personal wishes. Later, when Hyrum developed “for those who have prepared, the declining years of their Alzheimer’s disease and went to live with his son Aaron lives can be the most enjoyable.” 2 and his son’s wife for several years, they were able to help If those later years of life truly can be the best and most him transition into being dependent, confident that they enjoyable, what will it take to make them so? President were doing as Hyrum wished. Tanner listed four areas of preparation: financial, physical, Hyrum’s example motivated Aaron and his wife to get mental, and spiritual. their own affairs in order early, even though most people their age don’t think about illnesses or living wills. Financial and Other Temporal Preparations They’ve now tied up loose financial ends, made decisions Obviously, a key financial preparation for old age is should one or both of them become incapacitated, and

i ons by D lleen Marsh Illustrat simply to heed the frequent counsel from Church leaders to have shared these plans with their children.

July 2010 63 

Physical Preparation Most of the physical preparation for the senior years is simple common sense: regular medical and dental care, regular physical activity, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining proper weight. For many it may be easier said than done. But it can make a significant difference in quality of life in the later years. Take exercise, for example. Owen Gaisford, who is now in his 80s, was riding a bicycle and jogging long past the age when a lot of men take to the easy chair. “If you run,” he quips, “you don’t have to walk so far.” At age 74 he was serving as his ward’s Young Men president and hiking with the Explorer Scouts. Recently, osteoarthritis has made knee replacement surgery necessary. But Owen is still fit and energetic, still swims, and has lost none of his zest for life. For those who fear they have fallen behind in the fitness category, it isn’t too late. “People of all ages and physical conditions benefit from exercise and physical activity,” according to the U.S. government’s Senior Health Web site. 4 The site counsels that “men over 40 and women over 50 Resources for Mental Preparation should check with their doctor before Preparing for Exercise and proper diet may have another doing vigorous activity. [But] most older Senior Years very important effect on the aging process. adults, regardless of age or condition, • Home storage: All Is The brain appears to need them as much as the Safely Gathered In: will do just fine in increasing their Family Home Storage rest of the body does. A growing body of medi- physical activity to a moderate level.” 5 pamphlet cal research indicates that even mild aerobic “Scientific studies show that staying • Finances: All Is Safely exercise—such as walking two or three miles a physically active and exercising regu- Gathered In: Family day—helps keep the brain young and improves Finances pamphlet 7 larly can help prevent or delay many • Physical, mental, and mental abilities. And a healthy diet appears to diseases and disabilities. Scientists find emotional health: have similar protective effects. that even moderate exercise and physi- LDS Family Services Mental exercise is another way to keep the cal activity can improve the health • Health tips for seniors: mind sharp. Reading, doing crosswords or http://nihseniorhealth of people who are frail or who have .gov/exercise/toc.html sudoku, memorizing, and other mental chal- diseases that accompany aging. Older • Employment: LDS lenges are simple ways to retain mental faculties. adults hurt their health far more by not Employment Centers, It was once believed that we lose brain cells con- exercising than by exercising.” 6 providentliving.org. tinually as we age. We now know that’s not true. Click on 64 Ensign “Employment.” 

sisters in her ward. Questions to Ask Yourself Lorna says her motto • How can I simplify my lifestyle today and in the future? What steps am I has helped her face taking now so I can live simply and her challenges: “There with dignity in the future? is always a new dawn, • What government, community, family, service to give, and and Church resources are available to love to receive.” help me adjust to old age? • In what ways am I taking care of my The brain is Spiritual health now? What illnesses are known Preparation wonderfully to exist in my family, and what do Spiritual prepara- elastic and can develop new neural I need to be mindful of? tion for old age is pathways even late in life. Acquiring new • What activities and hobbies would essentially prepara- knowledge—learning to play a musical instru- I like to do when I’ve retired? tion for eternal life. ment or to speak a new language, for example—is • What do I want to accomplish by the The spiritual being a wonderful way to keep the brain active and grow- time I am 60, 70, 80, or 90 years of age? we have become ing. Doing something like taking ballroom or square • Do I have my will and legal documen- tation arranged if I become incapable over the course of a dance lessons not only requires the brain to learn of making decisions? lifetime is the same new patterns but also provides healthy exercise. • What can I do to better serve those being who will step Another mental preparation that affects the qual- around me? through the veil as ity of life in later years is learning to have a positive Adapted from President Ezra Taft Benson, “To the we pass from this life. attitude. In his final general conference address, Elder Elderly in the Church,” Ensign­ , Nov. 1989, 4. President Tanner said: Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917–2008) of the Quorum of “[Father in Heaven] the Twelve Apostles repeated some wise counsel from his has given us a program by which we can prepare ourselves mother: “Come what may, and love it.” He went on to say, “I for immortality and eternal life. I would encourage all mem- do believe that the way we react to adversity can be a major bers of the Church, old and young, to live the principles of factor in how happy and successful we can be in life.” 8 the gospel every day and thereby prepare themselves for the Having something to look forward to each day also time when they have finished their mortal existence so that makes a difference. What could be more debilitating than they can really retire to eternal life.” 9 ◼ to see nothing more than dreary sameness between you Notes and the horizon? Serving missions, doing family history 1. Robert Browning in John Bartlett, comp., Bartlett’s Familiar and temple work, taking classes, volunteering in the com- Quotations, 14 th ed. (1968), 666. 2. N. Eldon Tanner, “Preparing for Old Age,” Ensign,­ Dec. 1976, 2. munity—all are examples of worthwhile activities that can 3. See, for example, “Focus on Family Finances,” “Power Tools for Family Finances,” and “Stretching Your Dollars,” Ensign­ , June 2009, 28–37. enrich the senior years and bless the lives of others. 4. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, “Exercise Another part of mental preparation is being willing and for Older Adults: Benefits of Exercise,” http://nihseniorhealth.gov/ exercise/benefitsofexercise/03.html. able to change plans if necessary. Lorna Christopherson had 5. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, “Exercise for Older Adults: Safety First,” http://nihseniorhealth.gov/exercise/safetyfirst/02.html. always loved working in her yard. When health problems in 6. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, “Exercise her early 60s made that impossible, she turned to other inter- for Older Adults: Benefits of Exercise,” http://nihseniorhealth.gov/ exercise/benefitsofexercise/03.html. ests she had cultivated over the years. Lorna had often made 7. National Institute on Aging report, “Lessons Learned from Couch Mice, Marathon Mice, and Men and Women Who Like to Walk,” http://www. quilts for her family. Now, she has learned new techniques nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/ADProgress2005_2006/Part2/ and shares her quilting skills with her children and grandchil- lessons.htm.htm. 8. Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Come What May, and Love It,” ­Ensign, Nov. 2008, 26. dren. She has even started teaching basic quilting classes for 9. Tanner, “Preparing for Old Age,” 4.

July 2010 65 Latter-day Saint Voices

after the break-in, we continued to Getting to the Temple pray that we could find a way to go ince the time of our baptism in to save a little money for our trip, but to the temple. S2001, my husband and I had we soon realized that we might never After several months our prayers many conversations about traveling be able to save enough. were answered when we were told to the temple with our family to be Because we knew an eternal that we could receive help from the sealed together for eternity. However, family was more valuable than any- Church’s General Temple Patron our plans came to a halt when he thing we could have on earth, we Assistance Fund.* My children and I was diagnosed with liver disease and decided to sell the only thing of value rejoiced at the news and soon made passed away before we could go. that we owned—my late husband’s our hoped-for trip to the temple. I was heartbroken, but motorbike. After we sold it Thanks to the generosity of other my desire for our family e slowly for a significant amount of Latter-day Saints, we are now an eter- to be sealed for eternity Wbegan money, our hearts rejoiced nal family. ◼ grew even stronger after to save a little to know that we would Chhom Koemly, Cambodia

my husband’s death. As a money for our trip soon be able to be sealed *The General Temple Patron Assistance Fund widowed mother of four to the temple, but to our beloved father and was created to give financial assistance to children, however, I knew after our home husband. Church members who otherwise could not afford to attend the temple. it would not be easy to was burglarized, But our happiness was raise the money needed we realized that short-lived. One week after to take my family from we might never selling the motorbike, we Cambodia to the Hong have enough. returned from church to A Fan, a Kong China Temple— Vacuum, and roughly 1,000 miles (1,600 a Plate of km) away. Despite our meager Cookies income, my children and ne summer our young family I knew that we needed to Otraveled 2,000 miles (3,200 km) get to the temple so we across the country for my husband’s could be new job. We were excited for our new sealed as a adventure, but we felt very far from our family for home, our families, and everything else eternity. I we knew. We pulled up to our new continued home during a downpour, and in an to work attempt to protect our home’s newly hard doing find that our home laid carpet, we unloaded the truck laundry had been burglarized. with umbrellas overhead and sheets at a hotel When we discovered that underfoot. We knew that heavy rains while my chil- the money from the sale of had been causing basements to flood, dren worked odd the motorbike was gone, we and we nervously kept an eye on ours

jobs. We slowly began were grief stricken. For months after everything was unloaded. i ons by A nton o D id onato Illustrat

66 Ensign conquer the flood. When the water level in the basement rose to more than a foot (30 cm) deep, he sug- gested that we call the fire depart- ment; they brought large pumps that eventually solved the problem. The next morning Sister Sewell and other members of our new ward arrived with food, extension cords, t midnight, and more vacuums. We were over- the door- A whelmed by their goodness. In the bell rang. Pulling end we saved all of our belongings. the door open, I am so grateful to be a member of I was met by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Brother Lindsay day Saints. No matter where I go, I Sewell, the only have brothers and sisters waiting with person we knew open arms to welcome my family and in the ward. to help in times of need. ◼ Rindi Haws Jacobsen, Utah, USA All seemed well that night, and the floodwater with our three young children finally on the floor. asleep, Greg and I hurriedly made I called the Was I Too our bed. We were both exhausted, only member Busy to and falling into bed sounded so good. of the Church we knew in our new For some reason, though, Greg felt ward, Brother Lindsay Sewell, to ask Serve? that he should unpack another box. for instructions on running our sump n 1997 our branch president “Please,” I said, “let’s just go pump to drain the water. Brother Iannounced that the branch would do to sleep. We can unpack in the Sewell gave some quick advice, and a service project in the neighborhood morning.” then I went back to work trying to surrounding our meetinghouse. We He shook his head and headed to save our belongings. At midnight, the were doing this activity to join with the basement. After a few moments, doorbell rang. Pulling the door open, Church members all over the world in I heard him scream. Panicked, I ran I was met by Brother Sewell, his arms commemorating the 150th anniversary to the basement only to be met by a laden with a fan, a wet vacuum, and a of the arrival of the Latter-day Saint pio- miniature flash flood. We stood there plate of chocolate-chip cookies. neers in the Salt Lake Valley. shoulder to shoulder as cold rainwater “Sounds like you guys could use The activity involved cleaning began pooling around our ankles. some help,” he said with a bright roads and filling potholes. The branch Instantly we snapped into action and smile. Suddenly, I didn’t feel so far president said we would get dirty began dragging box after box up the from home. but that the activity might give us an steep staircase. I felt completely and All through the night, Brother opportunity to talk with others about hopelessly lost, my tears mixing with Sewell stayed with us, trying to the Church.

July 2010 67 Latter-day Saint Voices

I didn’t think I would go because my professor had scheduled extra Forgetting Ourselves lectures at the same time as the in Sicily activity. I felt that everybody would y name is Omar Interdonato,” woman invited us in, and we met with understand, but then I came across M the e-mail began. “I’m the her, two of her teenage daughters, and a pamphlet titled Faith in Every son of Fiorella Italia. I hope you still one of their friends. We learned that Footstep. When I read excerpts about remember her baptism.” the woman was recently widowed and the travails of the Saints on their trek Thirty years before, my missionary had four teenage children to care for. to the western United States, I was companion and I had been assigned We showed the filmstrip Man’s Search moved to tears. Some Saints left their to the island of Sicily and were serv- for Happiness and were invited to comfortable homes to go to a des- ing in Siracusa, a beautiful city on the return the following week. ert, unsure of what they would find. Mediterranean coast. On Sundays we The mother, along with her old- Others forged ahead even after every met with the few Latter-day Saints in est son and two teenage daughters, other member of their family had the area in an old villa, holding sacra- their grandmother, and their friend died along the way. In the midst of ment meeting in the villa’s living room. were eventually baptized. Following sickness, pain, hunger, and poverty, Missionary work was difficult, and my mission, I kept in touch with the they had faith that if they migrated we had few baptisms. Sixteen full- family, but until I received the e-mail, to the West, they would be free from time missionaries labored I had wondered what had oppression. in the city, which had been y companion happened to Fiorella, the I felt bad that the early Saints had tracted over and over. But M and I knelt daughters’ young friend. to make great sacrifices, even their as my companion and I on the edge of a “My mother has been own lives in some cases, to see that studied a map of the city ridge overlooking faithful to the gospel all the Church continued moving for- one day, we noticed a a valley, offered up ward. Because of their sacrifice and small village located a few our hearts and souls faith, I now enjoy the blessings of miles from our apartment to God, and began the gospel. on the edge of the city. tracting. I then realized how small a sacri- We hiked through the fice I would be making by compari- fields to this village, knelt son. I was being asked to give a mere on the edge of a ridge two hours of service and to share the overlooking a valley, and gospel with a few people, and I was offered up our hearts and making excuses for not attending. souls to God. We then began tracting I forgot about the lectures and in a group of tenement-type buildings participated in the activity. I got dirty, that made up most of the village. but people did come and ask about We were eventually greeted at a the Church. I felt happy for being door by a woman in her 40s dressed all involved, and I have since graduated in black—a tradition in Italy following from the university—despite missing the death of a loved one. We changed a few lectures. ◼ our door approach to emphasize Ngozi Francisca Okoro, Nigeria the plan of salvation. The

68 Ensign her life and in 1983 married a good Church member from the Messina Where Did I Come From? Branch and got sealed in the temple,” s a young child I often wondered, the marriage ended in divorce. her son wrote. “I was born in 1984 and A “Where did I come from?” So I packed up all of my belong- my sister, Veronica, in 1987. We are all Deep within my heart I knew I had ings, two children in tow and active in the Church. I served a mission lived somewhere before I became one on the way, and returned in the Italy Rome Mission from 2005 to who I am now, but I had no idea home. 2007, hoping to repay the Lord for all where. Sometime during those five years, the struggles of two missionaries who For many years I was afraid to my mom had joined The Church of decided to preach the gospel in the tell anyone—even my parents—for Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She small town of Floridia!” fear they would think I was crazy. had mentioned the Church when There were times during my mission But one day while I was in my early I visited her and had asked me to when I wondered if the two years of teens, I was brave enough to ask the talk to the missionaries. I finally sacrifice were worth it. But how great pastor of our church, “Where did consented, but before our meeting, is my joy (see D&C 18:15–16) to learn we live before we came to earth?” I made up my mind that I would that Fiorella’s life was changed forever He told me I should not think about agree to take the missionary discus- because my companion and I made such things. He said no one lives sions only if the elders could tell me the decision to go forth and forget anywhere before they are born; where I had lived before I came to ourselves in the service of others on we simply do not exist in any way be who I am now. the island of Sicily. ◼ before. To my surprise, they not only Louis Menditto, Nevada, USA I was afraid he was right and that answered my question but also gave I was crazy, but I still could not put me the answer straight from the these thoughts out of my mind. I Bible (see Job 38:4–7; Jeremiah 1:5; kept searching, but no one had any Jude 1:6). After that, they had my answers. undivided attention! Their answer When I was 18 years old, our helped me understand why all my family moved. I thought the life I had felt that I had lived before. preachers in our new town Now I understood that I had lived might know more than our in a premortal existence with my last preacher, so I decided Heavenly Father. to ask one of them my ques- It wasn’t long before I became a tion. His response was the member of the Church. For the first same: he told me it was not time in my life, I felt like somebody normal to think of such things and that I had a destination to and suggested that I see a pursue—to return home to my psychiatrist. Heavenly Father. Soon after that I stopped I am grateful that the missionaries going to church. I got a job, were able to answer the question met a young man, and got that no one else could. ◼ married. Five years later Betty Hollowell, Indiana, USA

July 2010 69 Small & Simple Things “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass” (Alma 37:6).

Temple Spotlight

Copenhagen Denmark Temple

riginally dedicated as the influences. Five tall windows made OPriorvej chapel near the of art glass run along each side of heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, the building, which has a unique in 1931, this beautiful redbrick roof made of copper with a edifice became the 118th temple of copper-clad dome. the Church when it was dedicated At the temple dedication as such on May 23, 2004. It was President Hinckley prayed that described as “a new temple in an This meetinghouse, Heavenly Father would “touch the old shell.” 1 built by members, hearts of all who serve herein with was dedicated in How to Get More from The original exterior—including 1931 and later an understanding of Thy divine a façade with impressive columns used as a bomb purposes and of Thy glorious work Sunday Lessons flanking the wooden door—was shelter during in bringing ‘to pass the immortality • During the week, read the preserved and restored while World War II. and eternal life of man’” (Moses After the building scriptures, and review the the interior went through exten- 1:39). 2 was renovated, it class member study guides became the 118th sive reconstruction. Murals and Notes paintings of scenes from local temple (below). 1. See “2004: Year in Review,” Church or manuals. Look at the News, Dec. 25, 2004, 13. questions at the end of each landscapes exemplify the temple’s 2. See “Dedicatory Prayer,” ldschurch​ distinctively Danish and Swedish temples.com/copenhagen. lesson, and ask yourself how e e they apply to your life. l emp • Make a goal to learn T

something new in each class enmark D you attend. New insights could come from the Spirit, the teacher, or other class members. • Pray for understanding of the material.

• Go to class prepared to Copenhagen of photograph etersen; P participate in the lesson by ma Lind Lind ma

sharing personal insights Al and testimony. Left: photograph of meetinghouse by by meetinghouse of photograph Left: imond; right: First Missionaries to I ndia, by Gl en H opkinson, by Craig D imond; right: by Craig D imond; photo i ll ustration not be c opied; photographs by R i hard M . omney may 70 Ensign Church History around the World

India

n 1849 two Mormon sailors set has been translated into 5 of India’s Isail for India. In Calcutta they 20 major languages: Hindi, Tamil, unofficially started preaching the Telugu, Urdu, and selections in gospel. In 1851 Joseph Richards Bengali. The India Bangalore arrived to begin formal missionary Mission was created in 1993. In efforts in the country. He baptized 2007 the India New Delhi Mission Twelve-year-old Henry McCune, a convert, greets some the first members of the Church was created to cover northern India Latter-day Saint missionaries upon their arrival in in India and organized a branch. and several nearby countries. Calcutta, India, in 1853. By 1852 there were 189 members. The Church has received They soon built a small chapel— national recognition for its work the first Church building in Asia. with over 50 humanitarian groups Over the next century, however, in the country. missionary efforts struggled. But in 1978 couple missionaries began serving as Church representatives The Church in India to help the Church be recognized Membership 8,200 and to strengthen members. Missions 2 Since then the Book of Mormon Districts 6 Branches 30

Below: Gideon and Hansen Prabhudas from the Bangalore Second Branch. Right: A gathering of priesthood holders from the Hyderabad Fourth Branch.

July 2010 71 Small and Simple Things

Great Lives Remembered

President David O. McKay (1873–1970)

orn in the small farming com- Bmunity of Huntsville, Utah, USA, on September 8, 1873, David Oman McKay learned hard work at an early age when his father was Above: Reviewing an archi- called back to his native Scotland tect’s rendering of the Bern on a mission and the seven-year- Switzerland Temple. Right: old boy helped his mother run the As a missionary in Scotland in 1897. Below, right: The farm. They were so successful that McKay home in Huntsville, when the senior David returned Utah. Bottom: Riding one of from his mission, mother and son his favorite horses. Bottom, left: The McKay family in were able to surprise him with Europe, 1922–24, while a much-needed addition to the President McKay served as family home. mission president. Following his own mission death of George Albert Smith in to England and Scotland, David 1951, that international experience became an educator and was undoubtedly helped prepare him the principal of the Weber Stake for the period of growth and out- Academy when in 1906, at age 32, reach that was to come. he was called to the Quorum of During President McKay’s the Twelve Apostles. As an Apostle, administration, Church membership David O. McKay traveled widely, increased from 1.1 million to 2.8 stopping in many places that had million; the number of stakes grew never before been visited by a from 184 to 500; and temples were General Authority. When he became built in Switzerland, New Zealand, President of the Church upon the and England. President McKay’s slogan “Every member a mis- sionary” became the watch- horpe, horpe,

word for the whole Church. T

When President David O. lark C McKay died on January 18, verett verett 1970, at age 96, he had E presided over the Church for nearly 19 years. In total, he served as a resident Mckay by by Mckay resident General Authority for P nearly 64 years, longer than anyone else in Church history. istory L ibrary. of the C hurch H istory P hotographs courtesy portrait painting of of painting portrait

72 Ensign Family Home Evening Ideas

Family Home Evening Testimonies

arents and teachers the first Monday evening the first time. We have also about how to help them. Pshould help children of the month would be a learned how family mem- And my own testimony has learn what a testimony is,” family testimony meeting in bers have been strengthened been strengthened as I share the First Presidency stated, our home. When the time through the power of prayer. it with those I love most. “and when it is appropriate came, we parents led by While listening to our Jennifer Johnson, Nevada, USA for them to express it.” They example, and then each of children’s testimonies, I have Note 1. First Presidency letter, advised, “It may be best to our children participated. received more inspiration May 2, 2002. have younger children learn From that simple start, our to share their testimonies at family testimony meeting such times as family home has become a tradition. For evening or when giving talks us, the first Monday of the in Primary until they are old month is ideal because it enough to do so in a fast follows fast Sunday. and testimony meeting.” 1 Through the comments When our bishopric shared, we catch a greater shared this letter from the glimpse of what’s going on pulpit, I thought about how in each other’s lives. Our our family could support oldest daughter shared what this counsel. After some joy she felt while doing thought, we decided that baptisms for the dead for ILLUSTRATION BY BETH WHITTAKER ILLUSTRATION

Helps for Home Evening

“A Tale of Three Families,” page 24. As you share the “A Work for Us to Do,” page 34. While preparing the stories of these three families, invite your family members lesson, prayerfully consider how to teach the principles to look for principles that will allow them to have in this article with these questions in mind: (1) Do we see “stronger faith and an increased capacity to serve.” ourselves as messengers from God, who has a work for our children and students to do? (2) Are we truly helping those in our sphere of influence learn what they should learn so that they can do what they should do and be what they should be? “Road Warriors and Strong Families,” page 54. Recognizing that all families may have periods where members are separated from each other for a period of time, prayerfully ponder in advance the messages from this article that may best apply to your family situation. Brainstorm as a family ways to implement a plan of action to apply the principles from “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” listed in the article.

July 2010 73 News of the Church

Updated FamilySearch.org to Bring New Features Under One Roof By Breanna Olaveson Church Magazines

n update to familysearch.org, available now at beta.familysearch.org, will make Athe site a hub of genealogical activity. Users can visit the site and provide feedback for developers before the beta version replaces familysearch.org later this year. The site brings together many of the tools FamilySearch provides, including FamilySearch Indexing, new.familysearch.org, user-generated and -edited wikis, and forums. To create a more seamless user experience, a single username and password will allow users to log in once and gain access to all areas of the site. New.familysearch.org, which replaced The FamilySearch adding them to the documents already available TempleReady last year and includes the Family .org Web site will online. A new image viewer feature allows users Tree feature, will be integrated into the updated soon be replaced. to search digital images of microfilm and view site. The beta site also includes new record collec- Visit the beta site them as they would using a microfilm reader at a for FamilySearch tions currently available at pilot.familysearch.org. family history center, only without the hand crank .org at beta As developers bring these various tools together, and eye fatigue. The image viewer enhances the .familysearch.org. feedback from users is a valuable asset in helping legibility of record images and provides access to prepare the site for a worldwide audience. published records online. With so many records “In the past, using all the FamilySearch tools has becoming readily accessible, an easy process for been like visiting separate, distinct buildings. The sifting through information is essential to a useful goal of the beta site is to create a sense of visiting family history site. different rooms in the same house,” said Robert In searching for ancestors, beta.familysearch Kehrer, senior product manager for the site. .org’s search engine goes beyond requested doc- With the remodel, the site’s search capability, col- uments and provides users with other information laboration tools, and overall simplicity will help put that might also be helpful in research. A search valuable information closer to the user’s fingertips. for an individual’s birth certificate, for example, will return historical documents but may also Search Capability return information from Ancestral File, Pedigree The Church is digitizing billions of records Resource File, forums, the Family History Library stored at the Granite Mountain Records Vault and Catalog, and other sources.

74 Ensign Bringing the available on indexing.familysearch.org Family Together • User forums currently available on forums eta.familysearch.org, which will replace .familysearch.org Bfamilysearch.org later this year, will be home • Family History Library Catalog and other to the following: information • Family Tree and temple preparation features • Family History blogs currently available on new.familysearch.org • Wiki pages that provide research help • Search capabilities currently available on and guidance currently available on wiki pilot.familysearch.org .familysearch.org • FamilySearch Indexing functions currently • Help features

To help organize results, search pages include compare sources and reach sound conclusions. a “Record Type” box. Here, records are orga- nized as Birth, Marriage, and Death; Census and Simplicity Lists; Military; Probate and Court; Migration and Even with so many new features, the beta site Naturalization; and Other. The new site will is designed to simplify family history work. The also allow members to access select collec- site’s usability saves visitors time as they find and tions on third-party Web sites. prepare names to take to the temple. One of the goals of beta.familysearch.org is to Collaboration Tools help novice researchers get started quickly and The improved familysearch.org will also make meaningful contributions to family history provide several forums for collaboration that work without a lot of training. The site is struc- will enable family members to share and com- tured to make it easy for casual volunteers to pare information without leaving the site. learn what information is already available, find Forums on specific localities, a blog, and similar out what needs to be done, and help by finding communication areas are accessible now on the beta sources of information and establishing credibility of site, with more functionality to come in the future. information. “The name family history implies that this Even individuals whose family history is largely isn’t a work to be done in isolation. We are lay- completed can help with family history by making ing the foundations of a site where families can records available for others. For example, users collaborate on finding their ancestors,” Brother can transcribe information from online images Kehrer said. such as census records on a personal computer Users can read and contribute to wiki pages in a process called indexing. After records dedicated to specific localities through the “Learn” are indexed, they can be searched digitally. tab on the beta site. These pages provide forums The indexing application is currently housed on where users can share information pertinent to indexing.familysearch.org, but will be part of a certain place, share research tips, and include familysearch.org later this year. external links to helpful Web sites. Indexing is one way to help with family history, In time, familysearch.org will be able to notify but it certainly isn’t the only way. users when certain information of personal interest “Each person has different interests and skills that is edited or added. These alerts will help ensure they can contribute to family history,” Brother Kehrer changed information is accurate and encour- said. “We are building a site that gives users a lot of age family members with similar information to options for becoming engaged in the work.”

July 2010 75 News of the Church Help is also available on the Web site. Users can said, “Family history work has the power to do ask research questions and find information on something for the dead. It has an equal power to getting started, understanding historical documents, do something to the living. Family history work researching specific localities, and other helpful of Church members has a refining, spiritualizing, hints under the “Learn” tab on the site. tempering influence on those who are engaged With the coming improvements, familysearch in it. They understand that they are tying their .org makes family history work easier and helps family together—their living family here with further one of the great purposes of the Church those who have gone before” (“Your Family in the latter days. President Boyd K. Packer, History: Getting Started,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Aug. 2003, 12). ◼

Church Makes The Germany Munich/Austria, Switzerland Zürich, and portions of the Germany Frankfurt Mission Changes Missions will become the Alpine German- o better align resources to changing needs, Speaking Mission. the Church has created 10 new missions The Illinois Chicago North and South Missions Tand consolidated others with neighboring will become the Illinois Chicago Mission. missions. The resulting number of missions will The Illinois Peoria Mission will be consoli- be 340. dated into a realignment of the Iowa Des Moines, The Church has created the following missions: Missouri St. Louis, and Nebraska Omaha Democratic Republic of Congo Lubumbashi, Missions. Guatemala Retalhuleu, Mexico Mexico City The Ireland Dublin and Scotland Edinburgh Northwest, Mexico Villahermosa, New Mexico Missions will become the Scotland/Ireland Farmington, Nicaragua Managua North (the Mission. Nicaragua Managua Mission will be called the The Italy Catania Mission will be consolidated Nicaragua Managua South Mission), Peru Cusco, into a realignment of the Italy Rome and the Italy Peru Lima West, Philippines Iloilo, and Utah Milan missions. St. George. The Japan Hiroshima Mission will be con- The Church has combined the following solidated into a realignment of the Japan missions: Fukuoka and Japan Kobe Missions. The Australia Melbourne East and The Korea Seoul West Mission will West Missions will become the Australia become part of the Korea Seoul Melbourne Mission. Mission. The Australia Sydney North and The New Jersey Cherry Hill Mission South Missions will become the will be consolidated into a realignment Australia Sydney Mission. of the New Jersey Morristown and The Puerto Rico San Juan East and Pennsylvania Philadelphia Missions. West Missions will become the Puerto The Ohio Cincinnati Mission will Rico San Juan Mission, with parts of the be consolidated into a realignment of east mission being consolidated into the the Ohio Columbus and West Virginia Dominican Republic Santo Domingo Charleston Missions. East and the West Indies Missions. The Spain Bilbao Mission will be con- The Germany Hamburg Mission will solidated into a realignment of the Spain become part of the Germany Berlin Barcelona, Spain Madrid, and Spain Málaga

Mission. missions. ◼ by craig dimond, © IRI Photo illustration

76 Ensign Paraguay Asunción North New Mission Presidents Horacio D. Madariaga Pennsylvania Philadelphia Begin Service William A. Schaefermeyer Peru Arequipa Arturo Fernández he majority of more than 100 new mission presidents and their Peru Cusco Wilson B. Calderon Twives began their three-year service this month in missions Peru Lima North Lawrence P. Blunck around the world. Peru Lima West J. Scott Dorius Peru Trujillo Terry D. Turk Alabama Birmingham Florida Tampa Bruce P. Summerhays Philippines Butuan Mernard P. Donato Richard N. Holzapfel Guatemala Retalhuleu José E. Maravilla Philippines Cagayan de Oro Argentina Buenos Aires North Hawaii Honolulu John C. Dalton IV William A. Hernaez Richard M. Gulbrandsen Honduras San Pedro Sula Philippines Cauayan Rodolfo A. Carlos Argentina Buenos Aires South Ronald L. Veirs Philippines Iloilo Ryan V. Pagaduan Michael J. Stapley Idaho Boise Kent H. Cannon Philippines Naga Ronald D. Bliesner Argentina Córdoba Alfredo L. Salas India Bangalore Randy D. Funk Philippines Quezon City Arizona Mesa R. Spence Ellsworth Indiana Indianapolis Kent H. Collins David W. DeLaMare Arizona Tempe Dean L. Howes Indonesia Jakarta George H. Groberg Poland Warsaw Stanford W. Nielson Armenia Yerevan Reese A. Carter Iowa Des Moines Dirk O. Jergensen Australia Brisbane Fritjof F. Langeland Italy Milan David R. Wolfgramm Australia Melbourne Dennis R. Lifferth Italy Rome Thomas Kelly Australia Perth Paul L. Cahoon Japan Nagoya Scott O. Baird Brazil Campinas R. Marshall Tanner Kenya Nairobi Steven H. Broadbent Brazil Curitiba Derek L. Cordon Korea Daejeon Mark C. Furniss Brazil Goiânia Ramon C. Prieto Mexico Chihuahua Gerardo Angulo Brazil João Pessoa Gordon J. Hall Mexico Culiacán Rolando Cantu Brazil Londrina Eduardo L. M. Tavares Mexico León Karim Del Valle Brazil Ribeirão Preto Gilson R. Prieto Mexico Mérida Netzahualcoyotl Salinas

Brazil Santa Maria Isaias D. Ribeiro Mexico Mexico City East photograph by christina smith Bolivia La Paz Hector K. Quintanilla Robert H. Hicken Many new mis- Puerto Rico San Juan Jorge M. Alvarado Bolivia Santa Cruz Fernando E. Calderon Mexico Mexico City Northwest sion presidents Russia Moscow Stephen J. Sorenson California Carlsbad Bruce M. Cook Tom R. Tervort and their wives Russia Samara Ralph J. Sartori California Long Beach Ted F. Bubert II Mexico Mexico City West began serving Sierra Leone Freetown Richard Roggia California Los Angeles Stephen R. Baker Carlos Villarreal this month. South Africa Durban California San Bernardino Mexico Monterrey East Alan R. Walker James C. Von Stetten William E. Jardine Mexico Villahermosa Nicolas Castañeda Spain Malaga Richard R. Clegg Canada Edmonton Chris W. Campbell Michigan Detroit Douglas D. Holmes Taiwan Taichung Clark T. Bishop Canada Montréal Nelson C. Cannon Missouri St. Louis Stephen D. Clark Texas Fort Worth Joseph M. Sagers Canada Toronto West Bradford J. Brower Mongolia Ulaanbaatar Kris J. Mecham Texas McAllen Stephen J. Trayner Chile Antofagasta Leland E. Bruce Nevada Las Vegas West Jerry B. Black Texas San Antonio Stephen E. Jones Chile Concepción Neall W. Humphrey New Hampshire Manchester Tonga Nuku‘alofa ‘Aisake K. Tukuafu Chile Rancagua James D. MacArthur David L. Wilkey Uganda Kampala Eric C. Jackson Chile Santiago West Richard W. King New Mexico Albuquerque Uruguay Montevideo West Colorado Denver South Alan R. Maynes Wayne K. Miller Ronald W. Heaton Columbia Barranquilla Carlos A. Gaviria New Mexico Farmington Utah Salt Lake City Bruce R. Winn Czech Prague David R. Irwin Spencer V. Jones Utah Salt Lake City South Bruce E. Miller Democratic Republic of Congo New York Rochester Jack R. Christianson Utah St. George Keith G. Leonard Lubumbashi Gary L. Packer Nicaragua Managua North Venezuela Valencia Jorge G. Montoya Denmark Copenhagen Jens H. Andersen Carlos F. Arredondo Virginia Richmond James C. Perry Ecuador Guayaquil South Nicaragua Managua South Washington DC North Javier Montalti Javier F. Monestel James R. Matsumori England Leeds Jerel D. Lindley Nigeria Enugu John K. Buah Washington Everett D. Keith Wilson Florida Jacksonville James W. Barry Oklahoma Oklahoma City Washington Kennewick Leonard D. Greer Florida Orlando Garth V. Hall Nolan S. Taylor Washington Seattle Todd S. Larkin Florida Tallahassee Dale Jensen Panamá Panamá City Craig L. Ward Wisconsin Milwaukee Timothy M. Jones ◼

July 2010 77 In the News Audio podcasts of the pro- grams are available in English Mormon Channel Offers on the Mormon Channel Web Variety of Programs site, radio.lds.org. The Mormon Since its development just Channel can also be found over one year ago, the official in eight major markets on radio station of the Church, the Bonneville International radio Mormon Channel, has made stations. some changes to better serve Conversations Apostles such as childhood radio listeners and Internet audi- on the Mormon experiences. Conversations epi- Help Us ences worldwide. Channel features sodes are typically 90 minutes Improve New radio programs include faithful members long. he Ensign­ staff is seek- from around the Conversations, Faith in Action, Faith in Action airs weekly and ing members of all ages world, including and a series called Q&A. discusses welfare efforts of the who are willing to give members of the T Conversations features inter- Quorum of the Church and how the gospel can feedback about proposed arti- views with General Authorities, Twelve Apostles. help people become more self- cles and features in upcoming auxiliary leaders, and other reliant. Guest speakers include issues. Volunteers for this Ensign­ faithful members from across returned LDS humanitarian mis- Evaluation Committee must the globe. Previously featured sionaries, who share experiences have Internet access and be able guests include Elders L. Tom from their time serving in various to communicate in English. To Perry, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell regions of the world. volunteer, e-mail ensign@lds Ballard, and other members Q&A allows people to e-mail church.org and put “Evaluation of the Quorum of the Twelve questions to the radio station Committee” in the subject line. Apostles. through [email protected]. We will send you questions peri- Interviews are informal, Many questions come from odically. Your feedback will help enabling listeners to learn those who are not members of the Ensign­ better meet the needs unique things about the the Church. of readers around the world. ◼

World Briefs contains original artifacts, includ- Progress program and the ing muskets and cannons. importance of building and Mormon Battalion Historic strengthening their testimonies. Site Reopens New Beginnings in Kathmandu The Mormon Battalion Kyiv Temple to Be Dedicated Historic Site in San Diego, Young women in the The Kyiv Ukraine Temple California, USA, reopened in Kathmandu Branch in New will be dedicated on August 29, March after extensive renova- Delhi, India, participated in their 2010. A public open house tions. The site honors more than first New Beginnings program in will take place from August 500 Latter-day Saints who fol- April 2010. Five young women 7 to 21, with a cultural cel- lowed prophetic counsel to join and their mothers were present ebration on August 28. The the United States Army in 1846. A as the branch presidency, Young Kyiv Temple is the Church’s walk-through exhibit follows the Women president, and other first temple in Eastern Europe Battalion’s journey from Council youth leaders offered inspirational and the 11th on the European Bluffs, Iowa, to Old Town San counsel. The young women continent. It will serve mem- Diego, California. The exhibit were taught about the Personal bers in 13 countries. ◼

78 Ensign In Other Church Magazines the new era

Pioneer Journal Comments The Gospel Classic department on page 6 fea- Conference Photos tures a selection from the journal of B. H. Roberts love the pictures describing his memorable entry into the Salt Lake Iprinted of those Valley after crossing the plains at the age of nine individuals attend- with just his older sister. ing general confer- ence. I realize pic- tures are not articles; however, the pictures can tell hundreds of Humanitarian Aid stories—a grand- With recent worldwide disasters, father, father, and son we turn to the Humanitarian Center to at priesthood session; find ways to help relieve the suffering a Laurel class adviser of others. (See “We Are His Hands,” by with her girls; a young Sally Johnson Odekirk, page 26). family dressed in their Sunday best; and many more. One picture in par- THE FRIEND ticular caught my eye many years ago, and Honoring Pioneers I have never forgotten In preparation for Pioneer Day, you can use the Friend it. It was a picture of to teach your children more about pioneers. This issue a young family—a includes pioneer stories, a pioneer maze, a pioneer- mother, father, son, themed hidden-picture activity, and an article about one and daughter—that of Salt Lake brought so much City’s first humility to me. They were radiant as they homes, the posed, and I could Deuel Cabin. feel the warmth and love of the family. Some may say their clothes were not the best, perhaps a bit too large or small. However, they were shining examples of Quilt Stories the love Jesus Christ Did you know you can read a quilt? Turn to pages has for each of us. 24 and 25 in the Friend to see an example of a quilt Elizabeth Tanner that uses shapes to tell stories. You and your children California, USA can guess what some of the quilt blocks represent.

July 2010 79 Until We Meet Again

Fight, Flee, or Take the Blows? By R. Val Johnson Church Magazines d S toker by Davi Photo illustration

wasn’t sure what to do that afternoon in my When faced with persecution, what options 14th year. I was backed up against the outside do we have as disciples of Christ? Iwall of my school, and a bully was hitting me. Since I was surrounded by half a dozen of his friends, I decided to take the blows. He punched me, then kicked me. Many times. and engage only if the Lord commanded it. Finally he and his friends left. My bus came, Times have changed since those terrible days, and I climbed aboard. I didn’t raise my head but in some ways the Church remains under until the bus pulled up to my stop. Even 50 years attack. Our doctrine is generally misunderstood. later, I still wonder if I acted out of cowardice or Uninformed assumptions, illogical accusations, and Christian forbearance. outright lies are passed around as truth. This experience underscores some puzzling What are we to do? As disciples who strive to questions we face as Latter-day Saints. When our “stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all beliefs are attacked, do we fight, flee, or just take things, and in all places” (Mosiah 18:9), we must the blows? do something. We can’t run. So do we fight or just The Savior’s words seem clear: “Whosoever shall take the blows? smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other In such matters, we can look to the prophets. In also” (Matthew 5:39). I’ve often wondered, Was recent general conferences, I’ve noted a number of Jesus simply using a metaphor to teach His follow- talks explaining the Church’s position on controver- ers not to respond to insults with bloody retaliation, sial issues. The speakers don’t castigate, but neither as was the usual practice? Perhaps. do they capitulate. Often they seek common ground And yet, consider the counsel in the Doctrine with those who disagree with us. They are respect- and Covenants. ful. They try to understand and be understood. 1 In 1833 the Church was facing intense persecu- There may be times when the only choice is to tion, especially in Missouri. In defense of their lives, fight, flee, or take the blows. But often we have a Church members took up arms. At that point, the better option. We can reach out in love, as Jesus Lord revealed section 98. In it, He taught them to and His Apostles do. ◼ forbear—within limits. They had a right to defend Note themselves, but if they refrained, He would reward 1. See Dallin H. Oaks, “Love and Law,” Liahona­ and Ensign,­ Nov. 2009, 26; Jeffrey R. Holland, “Safety for the Soul,” them. If the offenders sought forgiveness, the Saints ­Liahona and Ensign,­ Nov. 2009, 88; Jeffrey R. Holland, “My were to forgive “seventy times seven” (verse 40). As Words . . . Never Cease,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2008, 91; Robert S. Wood, “Instruments of the Lord’s Peace,” Liahona­ for going to battle, they were to first sue for peace and Ensign,­ May 2006, 93.

80 Ensign Words of Christ May not be copied

The Carriers, by J. Kirk Richards On November 4, 1856, rescuers and the weary Their compassion and courage exemplify the spirit of and starving Martin handcart company came to the Lord’s words in the Sermon on the Mount—as do the Sweetwater River in Wyoming. Chunks of ice the sacrifice and suffering of these handcart Saints floated in the river, which was 100 feet (30 m) wide struggling to Zion. and waist deep in places. When the pioneers saw it, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be memories of the suffering and deaths caused from comforted. . . . crossing the Platte River a few days earlier caused “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteous- many to cry to the Lord for help. Several young res- ness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. . . . cuers volunteered to carry women, children, and “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your the weak across the icy river. It took most of the day. reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:4, 10, 12). T in answertoourprayers.See“To Fillthe Earth,” page38. willopentotheNew areas gospel justasthey have inthe past occur aswedoso.” Letusacceptourprophet’schallenge. allowed toshare the gospel freely atthistime.Miraclescan where not ourinfluenceislimitedandwhere weare tinue ourfaith andprayers“inbehalf ofthose areas ThomasPresident S. Monsonhas calleduponusto- con Asotherhavewithin their prophets boundaries. before, (seeabove). Mormon However, notallnationsallowustoshare the gospel continues today. here lovethe Bookof Members has and countries beenimpressive American he ofthe growth Church inCentralandSouth

courtesy of Church History Museum