News of the Church THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • FEBRUARY 2009

■ NEWS OF THE CHURCH, P. N1 ■ WORLD BRIEFS, P. N6 ■ LOCAL NEWS, P. N7 ■ WORDS TO LIVE BY, P. N11 ■ PHILIPPINES JUBILEE 2011, P. N13 ■ LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES, P. N14 ■ READER COMMENTS, P. N15 ■ SPEAKING TODAY, P. N16

Bishops’ Storehouses Soon after the Church was organized in 1830, Church leaders and members gathered to Kirtland, Ohio. In December of 1831, Newel K. Church Welfare Offers Whitney was called to be the second bishop of the Church. As bishop, he was a steward over the More Than Short-term Aid temporal and spiritual needs of the congregation. in Times of Need Many of the members did not have much and had traveled to Ohio on foot, carrying everything PHOTOGRAPH BY WELDEN ANDERSEN BY PHOTOGRAPH s the world faces growing uncertainty, they owned. Amany members are coming to more fully A service While staying at the John Johnson home in appreciate Church leaders’ frequent counsel to missionary helps Hiram, Ohio, the Prophet Joseph Smith received be prepared. However, adversity often comes a customer at the revelation to establish a storehouse: “It must unexpectedly. Unemployment, the loss of a a bishops’ needs be that there be an organization of my peo- loved one, or a natural disaster typically aren’t storehouse in ple, in regulating and establishing the affairs of events one can mark on a calendar months in Salt Lake City, the storehouse for the poor of my people, both in advance. Utah. this place and in the land of Zion” (D&C 78:3). When calamity destroys self-reliance, the To accommodate the needy people in the Church’s resources are meant to help members area, Brother Whitney collected grains and other not only for the short term, but also in rebuilding useful commodities to store and distribute to the their lives. The Church’s welfare program was poor. Thus, in Kirtland, the first form of a bish- developed to give assistance to those in need ops’ storehouse was established. while teaching them principles of self-reliance and Functioning much like that early storehouse, providing opportunities for them to develop it. 146 bishops’ storehouses are serving people in Church resources that are particularly relevant need around the western hemisphere today. And to current circumstances include bishops’ store- in locations where an official bishop’s storehouse houses, LDS Employment Services, and the All Is is not accessible, each bishop oversees a store- Safely Gathered In pamphlets, which teach prin- house of sorts made up of the time, talents, and ciples of provident living. other consecrated resources of faithful Church

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N1 PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT CASEY BY PHOTOGRAPH members that the bishop can opportunities and show partici- call on to assist those in need pants how to better qualify for (see Church Handbook of work. Instructions, Book 1: Stake Some of the services available Presidents and Bishoprics include job postings, instructions [2006], 18). on how to search for a job, one- Just as the items found in People hoping to LDS Employment Services on-one assistance, and career Newel K. Whitney’s storehouse improve their Employment resource services. Classes include how to were the necessities, bishops’ employment service centers located through- enhance a résumé, Internet storehouses today are stocked participate in a out the world offer free services training in computer skills, inter- with essential food and home career workshop for those who are looking for viewing proficiency, and specific items. at an LDS work or trying to improve their job training. Recipients of any commodi- employment employment situation. In 2006 more than 225,000 ties provided through the resource center. More than 100 centers are people around the world were bishop are provided with located in the United States, placed in jobs. LDS Employment opportunities to work, to the and more than 150 centers are Services helps people find jobs extent of their ability, in return located throughout the world quickly because of the network- for the items they receive. in Africa, Asia, the Pacific, ing available and new skills Assignments may include clean- Europe, and Latin America. The learned and applied. ing a meetinghouse or being of services are available to any- Access to more information service to someone else who one, not just Church mem- on LDS Employment needs help. This gives the bers. Services can be recipients a sense of ownership Employment and accomplishment as well as resource service an opportunity to give back. centers offer help Storehouses are funded by in finding job fast-offering donations from openings and members of the Church throughout the world. Most of the work carried out at bishops’ The Church has offered storehouses is volunteer work, guidelines for provident living done by generous people want- to help members through ing to help. In areas where difficult economic times. access to a bishops’ storehouse is not available, bishops may use the funds from fast-offering collections. This money goes toward food and necessary items for specific individuals in need.

N2 found at ProvidentLiving.org. Tips New Temple Presidents to help job applicants get hired, career counseling, educational Now Serving funding information, and job y assignment from the First Presidency, 39 new temple presidents are now serving with opportunities are available on the their spouses. The presidents of the Panama City Panama, Rexburg Idaho, and Twin Falls Web site. A search by map shows B Idaho Temples began serving earlier in 2008 after the temples were dedicated. The president of the locations of employment the Draper Utah Temple will begin serving after the temple is dedicated on March 20, 2009. resource service centers. Temple New President Financial Preparation Adelaide Australia Philip F. Howes For decades Church leaders Apia Samoa John P. Hanks have counseled members to live Asunción Paraguay David K Udall Baton Rouge Louisiana Max P. Brough within their means and to get Bern Switzerland Raimondo Castellani out and stay out of debt. Doing Billings Montana Ronald M. Morrison so prevents unnecessary stress Bismarck North Dakota John R. Reese LEDENO PEREZ EDWARD BY PHOTOGRAPH on marriage and family relation- Bogotá Colombia Jorge J. Escobar Boise Idaho Wenden W. Waite ships and provides stability in an Columbia South Carolina unstable economy. Brent H. Koyle President N. Eldon Tanner Curitiba Brazil Jason G. Sousa (1898–1982) of the First Draper Utah Donald L. Staheli Freiberg Germany Frank H. Apel Presidency said: “Those who Guayaquil Ecuador Jorge A. Rojas structure their standard of living Idaho Falls Idaho Larry G. Stoddard to allow a little surplus, control Jordan River Utah The Guayaquil Snowflake Arizona Lewis Tenney F. Wayne Chamberlain Suva Fiji LaRon P. Woolley their circumstances. Those who Ecuador Temple Kona Hawaii Opurainonarii Mo’o Sydney Australia W. John Bailey is 1 of 39 spend a little more than they earn Logan Utah W. Rolfe Kerr The Hague Netherlands are controlled by their circum- Los Angeles California temples with Jacob J. Van Ry stances. They are in bondage” Grant R Brimhall new temple Toronto Ontario Stephen M. Hadley Louisville Kentucky Dale R. Hettinger Twin Falls Idaho Donald R. Gerratt (“Constancy amid Change,” presidents. Lubbock Texas E. Dale Cluff Vernal Utah Mac W. Holmes Liahona, Feb. 1982, 46). Madrid Spain Garry K. Moore Washington D.C. Earl C. Tingey ■ In an effort to help Church Mount Timpanogos Utah members establish control over L. Edward Brown their finances and live a debt- Newport Beach California D. Thomas Borgquist free life, the Church has pro- Oakland California Richard A. Hunter duced a pamphlet outlining the Ogden Utah Robert R. Steuer basics of family finances. Panama City Panama “Latter-day Saints have been Ronald D. Jamison Rexburg Idaho Val R. Christensen counseled for many years to Salt Lake Sheldon F. Child prepare for adversity by having a San Antonio Texas Marion D. Woods little money set aside,” the First San Diego California Bruce L. Olsen

PHOTOGRAPH BY WELDEN ANDERSEN BY PHOTOGRAPH Presidency wrote in the All Is

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N3 Safely Gathered In: Family Finances pamphlet. Church Gives Mormon.org “Doing so adds immeasurably to security and well-being. Every family has a responsibility to New Look, More Content provide for its own needs to the extent possible.” Members are encouraged to follow a few o make using Mormon.org to get into the doctrine,” said simple rules to get their finances in order. The Teasier and more effective, Ron Wilson, manager of first item on the list includes paying tithing the Church has made naviga- Internet and marketing for the and points out the blessings promised to a full- tion and visual changes to the Missionary Department. The tithe payer. Other steps include avoiding debt site and added more multime- new design has a “cleaner by spending less money than is earned and dia content. look, simpler navigation, and using a budget. Recording expenditures helps “When visiting the earlier more open feeling.” reveal how budgeted funds are spent. version of Mormon.org, you Mormon.org includes infor- Gradually building a financial reserve is had to do too much navigation mation about the basic beliefs another way to be prepared for emergencies. Parents are encouraged to teach family members the principles of financial management, involving everyone in creating a budget and setting finan- cial goals. “We encourage you wherever you may live in the world to prepare for adversity by looking to the condition of your finances,” the First Presidency wrote. “We urge you to be modest in your expenditures; discipline yourselves in your purchases to avoid debt. Pay off debt as quickly as you can, and free yourselves from this bondage. Save a little money regularly to gradually build a financial reserve.”

Be Prepared With the uncertainty of the world around them, members can find hope through heeding the words of the prophets and doing all within The updated Mormon.org site of the Church, gives answers to their power to prepare. Welfare services are includes more content and is frequently asked questions, one way people are preparing for and recover- meant to be more appealing to tells people where they can ing from hard times. all visitors. find and attend Church meet- Through bishops’ storehouses, LDS ings in their area, and allows Employment Services, and learning how to put visitors to communicate with their homes in financial order, members can missionaries live. press forward, knowing that “if ye are prepared Although the overall content ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30). ■ and purpose of the site haven’t

N4 changed, it has been updated. which gives insight on how to to use the site and to share it often. They can In addition to the visual find purpose in life. give the Web address to people inquiring about changes, the new Web site The home page of the new the Church or find answers to others’ ques- includes additional content to site directly addresses these tions or their own. “This is a safe and non- make it more media rich. There four commonly asked ques- threatening way for members to share the are testimonies from General tions: What is the purpose of gospel,” Brother Wilson said. Authorities and from members my life? Does God really know The updated Web site launched on September from all over the world. A new me? What happens when I die? 18, 2008, in English and is expected to be available video entitled Finding Is God happy with me? in Spanish by early 2009. More than 20 languages Happiness is now available, Members are encouraged are planned to be available later in 2009. ■

TEMPLE NEWS

More than 150,000 visitors Twin Falls toured the temple during an Temple Open open house held the month before the dedication. The tem- he Twin Falls Idaho Temple ple was first announced in Tis open and operating after October 2004, and ground was its dedication on August 24, broken in April 2006. ■ The Twin 2008, by President Thomas S. Falls Idaho Monson. This marks the 128th Temple was operating temple in the world Draper dedicated in and the fourth in the state of Temple Dates August 2008. Idaho. “We are grateful for this Announced begin on Thursday, January 15, long-awaited day of dedica- he First Presidency has 2009, and is scheduled to con- tion, when this, Thy holy Tannounced open house and tinue until Saturday, March 14, house, has been completed,” dedication dates for the Draper 2009, excluding Sundays. The said President Monson in the Utah Temple. This will be the dedication will be held from dedicatory prayer. “Bless, we 12th operating temple in Utah Friday, March 20, through pray Thee, those faithful and the 129th worldwide. Sunday, March 22, 2009, with members here and through- “We, with you, look forward four dedicatory sessions held out the world who have con- to the dedication of this house on each of the three days. tributed their tithes which of the Lord and the blessing it The Draper temple was first have made possible this mag- will be to the Saints,” the First announced on October 2, 2004, nificent edifice for Thy Presidency said in a letter to and the groundbreaking name’s honor and glory and members dated September 15, occurred on August 5, 2006. for the blessing of all who 2008. The temple will officially open enter herein.” The open house was to on Monday, March 23, 2009. ■

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N5 WORLD BRIEFS

Joseph Smith Manual Japanese, Korean, the triple combina- in 2001. The Book government repre- Available as PDF Mandarin, tion in Chinese of Mormon in sentatives in Bolivia in 11 Languages Portuguese, (simplified charac- Chinese (traditional and with the cooper- The Church Russian, and ters) was made characters) was ation of Bolivian Curriculum Spanish. Files for available through published in 1965, immigration authori- Department has American Sign Church distribution and the triple in ties as a precaution- expanded the Language are also centers in October 2007. ary measure during online availability available. 2008. The edition unsettled condi- of the manual Access the includes the Book North American tions. The Church Teachings of manual and of Mormon, the Missionaries expects them to Presidents of the other Church Doctrine and Leave Bolivia return when condi- Church: Joseph publications at Covenants, the Pearl Some 102 North tions improve. Smith to 11 www.lds.org/gospel of Great Price, and a American missionar- The Church has languages. library/pdfindex. study aid titled ies serving in Bolivia good relationships PDF files and Guide to the were transferred to with the Bolivian MP3 audio files Triple Released Scriptures. The missions in Peru in government and has of the manual are in Chinese Book of Mormon in September 2008. a significant humani- available in English, (Simplified Chinese (simplified The transfer was tarian aid program Cantonese, French, Characters) characters) was made in consulta- there. ■ German, Italian, A new edition of published tion with U.S.

Book of Mormon Reaches 140 Million Milestone

he 140 millionth copy of one of the “20 Books That Stone Cut Out Tthe Book of Mormon: Changed America” of the Mountain,” Another Testament of Jesus (July/August issue, 59). In Liahona, Nov. Christ was recently distrib- October 2007, President 2007, 83). uted, passing another mile- Gordon B. Hinckley The Book of stone in the book’s history. (1910–2008) described its Mormon has been Since it was first published in modern influence: “Through described as the “key- 1830, the Book of Mormon all of these years critics have The Church has stone” of The Church of has been taken worldwide by tried to explain it. They have printed more Jesus Christ of Latter-day more than a million missionar- spoken against it. They have than 140 Saints (see Introduction to ies. It is currently available in ridiculed it. But it has outlived million copies the Book of Mormon) and is 107 languages. them all, and its influence of the Book of used side by side with the In 2003, Book magazine today is greater than at any Mormon since Bible in members’ teaching named the Book of Mormon time in its history” (“The 1830. and personal study. ■

N6 News Dateline Philippines LOCAL NEWS

“There are two influences ever present in the world. One is constructive and . . . comes from our Heavenly Father; the other is destructive . . . and comes from Lucifer. We have our agency and make our own choice in life subject to these unseen powers.” Church President George Albert Smith (1870–1951): “There are two influences ever present in the world. One is constructive and elevating Elder David A. Bednar and comes from our Heavenly Father; the Visits Manila Saints other is destructive and debasing and comes from Lucifer. We have our agency and make By Ronalene Cayanan, Anne Gelene Tobias, and Eunice Ruth Barilea our own choice in life subject to these unseen PHOTOGRAPH BY EDWIN REDRINO EDWIN BY PHOTOGRAPH powers. There is a division line well defined or most Filipinos in Manila, the long Elder David A. Bednar that separates the Lord’s territory from weekend the third week of August of the Quorum of the Lucifer’s. If we live on the Lord’s side of the Fwas a time for relaxation and enjoy- Twelve Apostles line, Lucifer cannot come there to influence ment. But for the Latter-day Saints, the hol- greets Manila Saints. us” (Improvement Era, May 1937, 278). idays were a time for spiritual feasts as they Elder Bednar explained that if we keep the gathered to hear the messages of Elder commandments of the Lord we are safe on David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the His side of the line, but if we disobey His Twelve Apostles, who visited the teachings we voluntarily move into Satan’s Philippines from August 18 to 20, 2008. territory and become subject to his influence. After visiting the Saints in Cebu, Elder He further emphasized that there are Bednar went to Manila to meet with many small and simple things that we can do members, temple ordinance workers, and consistently that will keep us on the Lord’s full-time missionaries. side of the line—things like meaningful individual and family prayers, family home Devotional with Saints in Manila evenings, scripture study, and paying tithing. On August 18 Elder Bednar spoke in a “It does not take a drastic sin to get us on devotional attended by more than 1,700 the devil’s side of the line,” he added. “Once members from the Manila, Makati, and we stop doing the small and simple things, Pasig Philippines Stakes at the Buendia we slowly go to the adversary’s side.” meetinghouse. In his message, he quoted He taught that the gospel should not be a

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N7 list of dos and don’ts, but God—that grace is the strengthen them always as they should be a way of living that strengthening, empowering and live in safety, security, and allows us to become more like enabling element of the protection on the Lord’s side of Atonement. He the line. explained that life Other speakers in the would not always be devotional included Elder smooth sailing and Michael John U. Teh, Second that we need to ask Counselor in the Area for strength to bear Presidency, who discussed how our afflictions joyfully the gospel is a plan of and patiently. “It does happiness. He said that the not matter what we gospel is founded on the want; we have to principles of faith and action. accept what God “Everything we know, we need wants for us,” he said. to do,” he said. Elder Bednar Elder Won Yong Ko, First ended his message by Counselor in the Area invoking a blessing on Presidency, explained that we the Saints that the are all friends of Jesus Christ Elder and Sister Jesus Christ, with His help. Spirit would bring into and encouraged members to Bednar greet a He counseled the Saints to remembrance who they are as “build a good, friendly missionary from live the gospel and seek to do well as fortify, edify, and relationship with Jesus Christ” the Philippines the Lord’s will, and promised Quezon City that if they would do so, PHOTOGRAPH BY EDWIN REDRINO EDWIN BY PHOTOGRAPH Mission. though temptations and trials would not go away, they would be empowered to bear them with firmness and happiness. Elder Bednar said that the Atonement of Jesus Christ provides two overarching blessings in our lives. First and foremost, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ we can be cleansed and redeemed from sin. Second, the Atonement strengthens us to

do good and to be good. He REDRINO EDWIN BY PHOTOGRAPH emphasized what the Apostle Elder and Sister Bednar meet with Paul taught about the grace of saints in the Philippines.

N8 through prayer, scripture study, help each other be active in missionaries from the Philippines and attending the temple. the gospel and hold family Angeles and Manila Missions and Elder Keith R. Edwards, Area prayers and family home ordinance workers serving in the President, encouraged the evenings. Manila Philippines Temple. On Saints to declare the word of Susan Bednar, wife of Elder August 19, he met with the full- God with unweariness and to Bednar, testified that the Lord time missionaries from the be tireless in serving the Lord. hears and answers prayers and Quezon City mission in Provident Both men and women have a that He answers prayers in Chapel, Marikina, and visited significant role to play in the wisdom—in His time and in His the missionary training center, gospel of Jesus Christ, he said. way. “The Lord is aware of our where he also addressed the Judy Edwards, wife of difficulties, our fears, our missionaries. On August 20, he President Edwards, spoke concerns . . . and He is mindful gave a message to the Church about families being the of all of us,” she said. employees at the Manila center of the gospel. She said Later that same day, Elder Philippines administration that family members need to Bednar met with the full-time office. ■

Mindanao Saints Celebrate National Family Week By Roxanne Juele-Montojo

athers and Families: FResponsibilities and Challenges—Maabilidad si Dad,” was the 2008 theme for the National Family Week cele- bration. Mindanao Saints cele- brated this weeklong activity in various ways, from giving community service to per- forming in choirs.

Saints in the Mati Philippines PHILIPPINES DISTRICT COURTESY OF KIDAPAWAN PHOTOGRAPH District donated labor through a Members from the Kidapawan Philippines District community service project by gather to release balloons as an opening activity for cleaning Mayor Luisito Garcia the National Family Week celebration.

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N9 Rabat Memo- year’s Family Week celebration, rial School. each family posed for a Members then keepsake family picture.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ZAMBOANGA PHILIPPINES STAKE COURTESY OF ZAMBOANGA PHOTOGRAPH gathered at In southwest Mindanao, the meeting- Zamboanga stake members Wearing their Helping Hands vests, members of the house for a program. Fathers joined with the Office of the Zamboanga Philippines Stake work hand in hand in the Kidapawan Philippines City Social Welfare and cleaning the Women's Crisis Center. District gathered together Development to kick off the with their respective families celebration of National Family in four different venues on Week on September 22, 2008. September 27, 2008. The stake choir, which called Members of the Kidapawan itself the Ensign Chorus, sang Second and Third Branches the doxology and songs about opened their daylong family family at Plaza Rizal, across activity by releasing balloons. from Zamboanga City Hall, This was followed by the family for an audience of 300, talent showcase, with music, including government dance presentations, and employees and other civic dramatizations on how to groups. conduct family home evenings. Zamboanga Philippines Members also shared what they Stake president Bartolome

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ZAMBOANGA PHILIPPINES STAKE COURTESY OF ZAMBOANGA PHOTOGRAPH do to spiritually prepare for Madriaga and the director for The Zamboanga Philippines Stake choir performs Sunday services. public affairs, Israel Pajarito, Church songs for 300 government officials and civic Members from the Roxas were guests at a popular local group members at Plaza Rizal Zamboanga City. Branch, Puerta Princesa District, radio station. They explained and the Makilala Branch, the Church’s beliefs and views Kidapawan district, conducted on the family. team-building activities and ate During the weeklong cele- lunch together in their bration, members donated labor respective meetinghouses. through a community service At the Kabacan meeting- project on September 24 and house, members of the Kabacan 25, 2008. They cleaned the two- and Matalam Branches, story buildings of the Women’s Kidapawan district, played Crisis Center and the Social games like “Singing Fathers,” Development Center, a their own version of Singing shelter for street children.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ZAMBOANGA PHILIPPINES STAKE COURTESY OF ZAMBOANGA PHOTOGRAPH Bee, (a musical show where The National Family Week Members from the Mati Philippines District render fathers prove their knowledge of celebration ended with a community service at Mayor Luisito Garcia Rabat the lyrics of all-time favorite devotional held at Tomas Memorial School. songs). As a reminder of this Claudio meetinghouse. ■

N10 Cultural Event: A Heritage Most Valued By President Arthur Villaflores, Second Counselor, Ormoc Philippines Stake

he Ormoc Philippines Leaders perform PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ORMOC PHILIPPINES STAKE PHOTOGRAPH TStake celebrated its 10th “Tinikling,” a anniversary with a cultural native Filipino event at the Visayas State dance. University Campus, Baybay City, Leyte, on August 30, 2008. In attendance were young men, young women, wards and branches. The The cultural event opened and single adults from the activity fostered love, fellow- with a devotional attended by Albuera, Merida, Isabel, shipping, and unity among the Ormoc Philippines Stake Palompon, Villaba, Kananga, neighboring units. presidency. President Edwin Baybay, Kilim, Mahapllag, and Ormoc First and Second WORDS TO LIVE BY

DOCTRINE & COVENANTS 82:10 “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.” I am thankful for the assurance that the Lord will never leave us alone and that He will always provide for our needs. This verse reminds me that God loves us so much. Heavenly Father wants us to succeed and return to his presence. He gave us commandments so that we will never go astray. I know that His promises are sure. He will give us everything we need if we always keep His commandments. Jezreel Aquino

Editor's note: Share with us your favorite scripture and tell us in 150 words or less how it helped you. Send it to datelinephilippines@

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ORMOC PHILIPPINES STAKE PHOTOGRAPH ldschurch.org.

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N11 Some of the young single adults with stake president Reynaldo S. Delante (front).

Malit of the Philippines Tacloban Mission spoke on how the TRYING TO BE LIKE JESUS youth can prepare to serve a I am trying to be like Jesus when I full-time mission and what help my mother in household chores, blessings come from serving the like when she asks me to help look after Lord and knowing the eternal my three younger siblings, Angelykah, purpose of life as they declare Angelo, and Kimo. At school, when my their message to the world. classmates do not understand our lesson, The festive cultural program I help them too. ■ followed the celebration. The Angel Edrilyn M., age 10 event featured Philippine folk dances performed by the Editor’s note: If your child has a story or experience to members of the local units. The share about how he or she has portrayed any of My Gospel performances were highlighted Standards, have him or her tell us about it in 150 words or by the participants’ colorful less and send it to dateline [email protected]. costumes and folk songs from (Parents may assist young children.) Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The cultural event served as a reminder of the richness of Philippine culture. ■

N12 PHILIPPINES JUBILEE 2011

Pasig Stake Holds Cultural Show in SM Megamall By Sariah Guanzon-Ordinario

Editor’s Note: This section show is part of the Pasig of Dateline Philippines is stake’s commitment to the dedicated to the 50th Area initiative to perform Anniversary celebration of 2.5 million man-hours of missionary work in the service in time for the Jubilee Philippines. celebration in 2011. Dressed in colorful embers of the Pasig Filipiniana costumes, the MPhilippines Stake participants performed three The cultural show is a small impressed audiences at traditional dances—the Subli, part of a series of service SM Megamall as they show- the Maglalatik, and the projects planned by the Pasig cased their talents onstage in highlight of the show, the stake. In addition to the dances, a cultural show sponsored by Sayaw sa Bangko or Karato. they are preparing a roadshow Kultura Filipino. The event Many in the audience held presentation and a choir was held on August 5, 6, 18, their breath as the performers number to be performed in and 22 in commemoration nimbly leaped and danced on different activities and events in of the Buwan ng Wika. narrow benches stacked one on the localities of Pasig, Pateros, Participation in the cultural top of the other. and Taguig. ■

The cultural show participants with Elder Won Yong Ko, Area Presidency First Counselor; his wife, Eun Hee Kim; and Cirilo Laceste, Pasig Philippines Stake president, and Sister Laceste

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PASIG PHILIPPINES STAKE COURTESY OF PASIG PHOTOGRAPH (back).

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N13 LOCAL LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

Blessings from ted myself to do all I could to missionary service when a terrible Heeding the Spirit achieve that goal so my parents typhoon struck my hometown and I By Charito Alferez would be proud of me. But I found out that my mother had passed n 1994 I was working two part- needed to balance my secular and away when she was hit by a fallen fire- Itime jobs, one as part-time secre- spiritual learning. I was a diligent wall during the storm. I was distraught tary and one as a contractor, to student in school, but I also then and wondered why it had to hap- help with my family’s financial attended institute after classes. pen. In time, however, I learned to needs. I longed for a full-time job, However, our family had a financial accept things as they were. I found and I prayed a lot about it. problem at that time. To augment our strength in the knowledge that in spite As a contractor I traveled to Manila income, I had to work on Saturdays in of what happened, if I obeyed the often to pick up assigned jobs and the tailoring shop where my mother commandments and stayed active in deliver them when done. One day I worked. During the summer, I worked the Church, things would work out. I heard about a job opening for a per- at the municipal hall of our town. When trusted the Lord. manent position in the contract work I was in my junior and senior year, I was After I returned from my mission in that I was doing. With prayer and fast- able to receive a Perpetual Education 1989, I tried my best to magnify my ing, I pleaded to Heavenly Father to Fund loan. It not only helped me pay callings in the Church and do what help me qualify for the job. I felt a very my tuition, but it also helped me was expected of me. I worked over- strong impression to give up my work increase my faith in the law of tithing. It seas for six years after that. I wanted to as a part-time secretary and have faith taught me how to work harder to be married in the temple and I knew enough to take a chance on the job achieve my goals. that the Lord knew my heart. I had opening. I hesitated to heed the Finally, with Heavenly Father’s help been waiting for someone for some prompting for fear of being in a and consistent studying, I graduated time, but I continued to trust that as deeper financial predicament. But the cum laude in school, and I also gradu- long as I kept myself worthy I would Spirit was so strong that I could not ated from institute. My parents were receive such a blessing in His time. In resist it, and I followed the prompting. very proud of me. I know that if we do 2002 I met Isidro Paliza, a worthy man I was hired as a permanent our part, Heavenly Father will help us who would eventually become my employee in the job that I applied for. I achieve our goals. eternal companion, at a single adult am thankful to the Lord for the bless- activity. We were married in June 2003 ings He has given me and my family I Know in Whom I in the Manila Philippines Temple. for heeding that prompting. Have Trusted In 2004, I became pregnant but By Annabelle Mejes Paliza suffered a miscarriage. I did not With Honors was baptized with my family in become pregnant again after that. We By Melanie Mendez I1983. I soon began working with had always wanted to have children, hen I was still in Primary, my the missionaries, and my testimony and it was a trying time for us. Again, I Wdream was to become an about the truthfulness of the gospel trusted that the Lord would bless us honor student in college. My par- was strengthened. I then set a goal with our desires in His own time. ents always told me that if I gradu- to serve a mission. I entered the Last year my widowed sister became ated from college with honors I missionary training center in August terminally ill. She eventually passed would have a better future, so I 1987, a day after my 21st birthday. away, but before she did she told me eagerly pursued that goal. I commit- I was barely three months into my that she would be entrusting her five

N14 READER COMMENTS

daughters, ages 12 to 19, to me Satisfies My Soul Source of Strength and Power and my husband. I am now a I have always loved reading the The Liahona has been a major mother of five wonderful Liahona, and now I am so grateful source of strength and power to me daughters as well as a doting to have my own subscription. The since I became a member of the aunt to two more girls. articles invigorate my spirit, Church five years ago. It eases my I recently finished an strengthen my testimony, and help homesickness, calms my fears and entrepreneurship course at the me stay on the right path. I espe- doubts, and lightens my burdens in Academy for Creating cially love the Latter-day Saint life. It has made me more human and Enterprise and started a small Voices section. a better person. By living the princi- business with my family. I do I am very grateful to receive the ples and lessons I've learned from the not know exactly what the messages of the Lord's servants Liahona, I have come closer to future holds, but I know that every month. They satisfy my hun- Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and when I do my best to obey and gry soul. to all Their children here on earth. I do what the Lord asks, Jezreel B. Bacalla love the Liahona! everything will be all right. Like Jacquelyn Badua Nephi, I know in whom I have Enlighten, Remind, and Inspire trusted (see 2 Nephi 4:19). ■ Every month I am excited to receive the new issue of the Liahona; excited to read new arti- cles from members and leaders of the Church that will enlighten, remind, and inspire me once again. I am so grateful to be a member of this Church. I have known so many WHAT members who by their example DO YOU THINK? have helped me become a better person. And my thanks to the Liahona for bringing me stories of Please send your comments so many wonderful people in the on the Liahona and Dateline Philippines to Church. The Liahona is a precious datelinephilippines@ gift from God. ldschurch.org. Sheena Mae Libo-on Petro If you have any stories or experiences in which a gospel principle helped you, tell us about it in 500 words or less and send to datelinephilippines@ ldschurch.org.

NEWS OF THE CHURCH FEBRUARY 2009 N15 SPEAKING TODAY

Elder Scott Shares 10 Keys to Happiness

hile speaking to Brigham from applying that counsel in his or her life. WYoung University graduates Be Disciplined. “Discipline breeds determina- in August 2008, Elder Richard G. tion. Determination fueled by discipline over- Scott of the Quorum of the comes the barriers in life that would cause us to Twelve Apostles shared 10 points fall far short of our true potential. Determination, that lead to happiness in life. when supported by practiced discipline, converts Use Correct Principles. barriers into ladders to greater success, happi- Establish a set of guiding princi- ness, joy, and accomplishment,” Elder Scott said. Elder Richard G. Scott ples based on the teachings of “Rigorous discipline is at the core of all signifi- Jesus Christ. We can find direc- cant attainment.” for our actions builds charac- tion and opportunities as we Radiate a Positive Attitude. The challenges ter and earns respect. Live so live true principles and avoid we face can be just a moment if we choose to that you can be trusted, and even small deviations. As we have a positive attitude. “Challenges are not show integrity in all aspects of base our lives on true princi- meant to be the substance of life,” Elder Scott life. ples, we are able to make good stated. Rather, they are meant to be stepping- Follow Proper Traditions. decisions that bring success stones to further growth and achievement. As Let all of your activities be in and happiness. we keep a positive attitude, life should and can accordance with the teachings Exercise Faith. “Let your be wonderful. of the Savior. Make the gospel predominant attitudes be faith Establish a Home and Family. “Make one of the foundation in your life. in the Lord Jesus Christ; confi- the highest priorities of life the formation of an Smile, Serve Others, and dence in His teachings; trust in eternal family; then live to permit the Lord to Don’t Complain. All of these His ability to keep His prom- guide you to that objective while accepting His principles let sunshine into ises; and reliance on His capac- timing,” Elder Scott said. Homes should be a safe your life and spread joy to oth- ity to inspire, motivate, and haven where the gospel is taught and lived. No ers. There will be times when guide you,” Elder Scott said. As matter what your home looks like, make it a you will feel as if life isn’t fair. we show our faith and walk in clean, righteous, peaceful environment that Everybody has problems. Don’t obedience, we can stay close to invites the Spirit to dwell there. waste time complaining. the Lord and have the Holy Trust in the Lord. Obedience to the command- Instead, seek the help of the Ghost to guide our every deci- ments and the Lord’s counsel fills our lives with Lord and look for opportunities sion. Answers will come a piece inspiration and power. Each person has the to serve others selflessly. Always at a time through prayer and capacity to achieve far more when depending on have a Church assignment. pondering. the Lord than is possible without His help. As we Serve gladly and let the Lord Work and Pray. Exceptional have confidence in the Lord, we will develop abili- guide you through life, and you achievement in all aspects of ties that help us to overcome challenges and pro- will be able to face important life comes through work and tect us from sin. Obedience brings confidence. decisions with the guidance of prayer. Everyone can benefit Be Honest and Loyal. Taking responsibility the Holy Ghost. ■

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