THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • SEPTEMBER 2006

COVER STORY: How to Be a Great Father, p. 2 You and Your Son’s Duty to God, p. 32 Women of the Old Testament, p. 38 had blessedthelittlechildren, whenangels“encircledthoselittleonesabout.with fire;andtheangels for the Relief Society Building (see story on page 54). This painting shows the moments after Christ onpage54).This painting showsthemomentsafter for theRelief Society Building(seestory The artist gavethisoilpaintingtotheReliefThe artist Society in1947asherdonationtothebuildingfund Look toYour Children, did ministerunto them”(3Nephi17:24). by MinervaTeichert

COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF CHURCHORY HIST AND ART, MAY NOT BE COPIED SEPTEMBER 2006 • VOLUME 36, NUMBER 9

2 FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE The Father Who Cares President James E. Faust 7 LATTER-DAY PROPHETS SPEAK The Sacred Role of Fathers 8 Sharing Family Heritage Elder L. Tom Perry 12 Learning to Hear the Lord’s Voice Aaron L. West 16 “He Took My Shoe!” Grace Brasse Pannell 18 For the Divorced Single Parent 12 Learning to Hear Kaye Terry Hanson the Lord’s Voice 24 LESSONS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT Trust in the Lord Forever Margaret S. Lifferth 27 Living in the Shadow of Death Lois McCune Sewell 32 Fulfilling Our Duty to God: A Window of Opportunity Charles W. Dahlquist II 38 She Shall Be Called Woman: Women of the Old Testament 44 GOSPEL CLASSICS Commitment to God President Howard W. Hunter 48 Nicaragua: Hungering for the “Beautiful Fruit” Don L. Searle 53 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE Serving and Supporting Each Sister 54 The Relief Society Building: A Symbol of Service and Sacrifice Heidi S. Swinton and LaRene Gaunt 58 I Tossed Your Name Aside Name Withheld 60 Unforgettable Family Home Evenings Fulfilling Our 32 Duty to God 63 Let’s Try Again! Marianne Monson-Burton 64 LESSONS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT For the Divorced Watchmen of the Lord Elder Gary J. Coleman 18 Single Parent 68 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES 72 RANDOM SAMPLER 74 NEWS OF THE CHURCH

ON THE COVER: Photographs by Welden C. Andersen, posed by models

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH SENIOR SECRETARY: Christy Rusch TO CHANGE ADDRESS: Send both old and new address OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS PUBLICATIONS ASSISTANT: Sally J. Odekirk information to Distribution Services at the above address. Please allow 60 days for changes to take effect. THE FIRST PRESIDENCY: Gordon B. Hinckley, MARKETING MANAGER: Larry Hiller Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust MANAGING ART DIRECTOR: M. M. Kawasaki SUBMIT MANUSCRIPTS OR ART TO: [email protected] QUORUM OF THE TWELVE: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, (e-mail) or Ensign Editorial, 50 E. North Temple St., Rm. 2420, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, ART DIRECTOR: J. Scott Knudsen Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3220, USA. Unsolicited material is Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, SENIOR DESIGNERS: C. Kimball Bott, Colleen Hinckley welcome, but no responsibility is assumed. For return, Jeffrey R. Holland, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, DESIGN AND PRODUCTION STAFF: Cali R. Arroyo, include self-addressed, stamped envelope. David A. Bednar Collette Nebeker Aune, Thomas S. Child, Eric P. Johnsen, Jane Ann Peters, Randall J. Pixton, Scott Van Kampen The Ensign can be found on the Internet at www.lds.org. EDITOR: Jay E. Jensen Click on “Gospel Library.” ADVISERS: Gary J. Coleman, Yoshihiko Kikuchi, PRINTING DIRECTOR: Craig K. Sedgwick Gerald N. Lund, W. Douglas Shumway DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR: Kris T. Christensen Text and visual material in the Ensign may be copied for MANAGING DIRECTOR: David L. Frischknecht incidental, noncommercial church or home use. Visual © 2006 BY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. material may not be copied if restrictions are indicated in EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Victor D. Cave The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) is published monthly by SENIOR EDITOR: Larry Hiller the credit line with the artwork. Copyright questions should The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Allan R. Loyborg be addressed to Intellectual Property Office, 50 E. North North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3220, USA. Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3011; e-mail: MANAGING EDITOR: Don L. Searle Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah. [email protected]. ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR: LaRene Porter Gaunt TO SUBSCRIBE: By phone, call 1-800-537-5971 to order SENIOR EDITORS: Linda Stahle Cooper, Judith M. Paller POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Distribution Services, Watchmen using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American 64 ASSISTANT EDITOR: Melissa Merrill P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. of the Lord EDITORIAL STAFF: Susan Barrett, Andrew Cargal, Ryan Carr, Express. Online, go to ldscatalog.com. By mail, send Monica L. Dickinson, Jenifer L. Greenwood, R. Val Johnson, $10 U.S. check or money order to Distribution Services, CANADA POST INFORMATION: Publication Agreement Adam C. Olson P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368. #40017431 2 FIRST PRESIDENCY MESSAGE

The Father Who Cares BY PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST Second Counselor in the First Presidency ome time ago a father of six children countries was respect for authority . . . in the who had the sole responsibility for home, which . . . normally reposes in the Sraising the family, beginning when father as head of the family.” the youngest was in diapers, told of the President Richards continued: “For gener- struggles of doing so alone. One night he ations we as a Church have been endeavor- came home from work faced with the prob- ing to do just what the judge advocates—to lems of being both father and mother and put and keep Father at the head of the fam- felt unusually burdened with his responsi- ily, and with all our might we have been try- bilities. One of his appreciative daughters, ing to make him fit for that high and heavy age 12, approached him eagerly after hav- responsibility.”1 Since the primary purpose ing laid on his dresser a rock that she had of the Church is to help the family and its God bless you fathers painted at school. On the flat portion of the members, how well the father functions in to be equal to your rock, she had written, “Happiness is having his responsibility is of utmost importance. overwhelming a dad who cares.” This painted rock and its More recently I read in the paper: “Social responsibilities and sublime message instantly and permanently scientists across the political spectrum tell us to have a father’s lightened the burden of this father. that father absence is a stronger predictor of special caring for Speaking in general conference some years criminal behavior than family income, educa- each one under your ago, President Stephen L Richards (1879– tion, or . . . race. protective arms. 1959), First Counselor in the First Presidency, “And while individual youngsters can man- quoted from an article, written by a veteran age life without father reasonably well in many criminal court judge, titled “Nine Words That cases, few are able to come unscathed through BY JOSEPH BRICKEY; PHOTOGRAPH BY BUSATH PHOTOGRAPHY BUSATH BY PHOTOGRAPH JOSEPH BRICKEY; BY Can Stop Juvenile Delinquency.” The nine fatherless communities.”2 words suggested by the judge were “Put Father In urging that fathers be put back at the back at the head of the family.” President head of their homes, we wish to take nothing

THE PURPOSE OF LIFE, Richards concluded from the article “that the away from mothers. In all the world there is primary reason for the reduced percentages of no higher or greater honor or responsibility

DETAIL FROM DETAIL juvenile delinquency in [certain] European than motherhood. Hopefully they too will

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 3 have their powerful influence extended to even a greater should be to maintain their own spiritual and physical degree within the home and beyond the home. strength. Then comes their family, then the Church, and then their professions—and all need time.”3 In giving time To Strengthen Father to his children, a father should be able to demonstrate In order to strengthen the father in the home, that he has enough love for them to command I make two simple suggestions: first, sustain as well as discipline them. Children want and and respect the father in his position; second, need discipline. As they approach some give him love, understanding, and some dangers, they are silently pleading, “Don’t appreciation for his efforts. let me do it.” President David O. McKay There are some voices in our society (1873–1970) said that if we do not ade- who would demean some of the attributes quately discipline our children, society will of masculinity. A few of these are women discipline them in a way we may not like.4 who mistakenly believe that they build their Wise discipline reinforces the dimensions of own feminine causes by tearing down the eternal love. This reinforcement will bring image of manhood. This has serious social great security and stability into their lives. overtones because a primary problem in the In a landmark address to the priesthood insecurity of sons and daughters can be the n this Church, in October 2000, President Gordon B. diminution of the role of the father image. the husbands Hinckley focused his remarks on the role Let every mother understand that if she I and fathers, and of fathers. He told us: “This is a subject does anything to diminish her children’s members of the family which I take very seriously. It is a matter father or the father’s image in the eyes of through them, enjoy a with which I am deeply concerned. I hope the children, it may injure and do irrepara- power and influence in you will not take it lightly. It concerns the ble damage to the self-worth and personal their lives far beyond most precious asset you have. In terms of security of the children themselves. How the natural gifts of your happiness, in terms of the matters that infinitely more productive and satisfying intellect and character make you proud or sad, nothing—I repeat, it is for a woman to build up her husband of the father. I refer to nothing—will have so profound an effect 5

rather than tear him down. You women the priesthood of God. on you as the way your children turn out.” AND ART RANE, COURTESY OF MUSEUM CHURCH HISTORY WALTER BY are so superior to men in so many ways He went on to give counsel to fathers: that that you demean yourselves by belittling masculinity they are to help their children resist temptation, to listen and manhood. to them, to be patient and prayerful, and to teach them the In terms of giving fathers love and understanding, it ways of the Lord.

should be remembered that fathers also have times of The exalted position of a father was well stated by UNDERSTAND, TEACH THEM TO insecurity and doubt. Everyone knows fathers make American general Douglas MacArthur, who said: “By pro- mistakes—especially they themselves. Fathers need all fession I am a soldier and take pride in that fact. But I the help they can get; mostly they need love, support, am prouder—infinitely prouder—to be a father. A soldier and understanding from their own. destroys in order to build; the father only builds, never destroys. The one has the potentiality of death; the other A Father’s Responsibilities embodies creation and life. And while the hordes of death As fathers we need to set priorities to guide us in allo- are mighty, the battalions of life are mightier still. It is my

cating our time. Some men forget that their “first priority hope that my son, when I am gone, will remember me not MODELS; POSED BY CRAIG DIMOND, BY PHOTOGRAPH

4 from the battle but in the home repeating into and continue throughout all eternity. resident with him our simple daily prayer, ‘Our Father The conscientious women of this Church Gordon B. who art in heaven.’ ”6 wish to have such a righteous influence in P Hinckley has It is important to remember that in this abundance in their homes. counseled fathers Church, the husbands and fathers, and mem- to be patient and bers of the family through them, enjoy a A Legacy of Joy prayerful, to help power and influence in their lives far beyond One gracious mother joyously recounted their children resist the natural gifts of intellect and character of in a stake conference the marvelous experi- temptation, to listen the father. I refer to the priesthood of God, ence of being in one of the temples with her to their children, which every worthy man and boy over 12 husband and with all of her children but one and to teach them years of age enjoys. and being sealed together as husband and the ways of the Lord. A prominent Church and business leader, wife and family for time and all eternity. Her now healthy, was born without life. His father, husband, newly involved in the priesthood, exercising his priesthood, made a promise sat in the conference audience a few rows that if his firstborn could live, that he, the back. For a moment she seemed to forget all father, would do all in his power to provide of the rest of us and spoke only to him. Over the proper example and teachings for his son. the pulpit and through the loudspeaker, with After a few minutes his infant son began to more than a thousand people in tears watch- breathe and is well and vigorous to this day. ing and listening, she said: “John, the chil- It is through the power of the priesthood dren and I don’t know how to tell you what that marriage and the family unit can extend you mean to us. Until you honored the

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 5 priesthood, the greatest blessings of eternity would not NOTES 3. Bishop’s Training Course 1. “The Father and the Home,” and Self-Help Guide (1972), open up for us. Now they have. We all love you very much, Improvement Era, June 1958, sec. 2, p. 7. and we thank you with all our hearts for what you have 410; quoting from Samuel S. 4. See Conference Report, Leibowitz, “Nine Words Apr. 1955, 27. made possible for us.” That Can Stop Juvenile 5. “Great Shall Be the Peace of Thy Delinquency,” Reader’s Children,” Liahona, Jan. 2001, You may recall the story about a child trapped in a hole Digest, Mar. 1958, 106. 61; Ensign, Nov. 2000, 50. in the ground who could be extricated only by sending 2. William Raspberry, “Crime 6. In Emerson Roy West, comp., Rates Rise from Fatherless Vital Quotations (1968), 118. another, smaller child into the tunnel. One little fellow Communities,” Deseret 7. Vital Quotations, 120. Morning News, Oct. 10, 8. “What Would Jesus Do?” was approached to see if he would be willing to go down 2005, sec. A, p. 11. New Era, Sept. 1972, 4. and rescue the one who was lodged. The lad said, “I am scared to go in that hole, but I will go if my father will IDEAS FOR HOME TEACHERS hold the rope.” After prayerfully studying this message, share it using Elder Richard L. Evans (1906–71) of the Quorum of the a method that encourages the participation of those you Twelve Apostles gave the proper dimension for all fathers teach. Following are some examples. (As you teach from in this faith when he said: “First of all, fathers are giving a this article, be sensitive to families in which the father is name and a heritage to their children—clean and honor- not present.) able. Fathers are for long, hard work, mostly their own 1. Select from the article principles you feel best apply kind of work; . . . for trying to give their children things to the families you teach. Invite family members to read from [their] fathers never had. Fathers are for talking with, for portions of the article that teach or illustrate these principles. encouraging, for putting arms around; for understanding Share testimony and experiences from your own life about mistakes, but not condoning them; for disciplining when these principles. needed, then loving all the more; for being strong and 2. Plan ways in which family members could show love forceful, and for being tender and gentle.”7 and appreciation for their father. One idea could be to prepare It is always appropriate in all family relationships to ask, a piece of paper for each family member bearing the words “What would Jesus do?” Having turned to the scriptures for “I love my dad because _____.” Ask each person to write a the answer to this question, President Marion G. Romney phrase in the blank and explain why that phrase was chosen. (1897–1988), First Counselor in the First Presidency, testi- Read the first paragraph of the article, and have family mem- fied: “There in the Gospel as recorded by St. John, I found bers give their papers to their father. the clear and certain answer: Jesus would always do the will 3. List the priorities for fathers suggested in the article, of his Father. . . . ‘For I do always those things that please and discuss why each is important. Drawing from the exam- him’ [John 8:29].”8 ples in the article and from personal experience, illustrate God bless you children to have listening ears and ways that fathers can fulfill these four priorities. understanding hearts. God bless you mothers for the 4. Read the last paragraph of the article, and discuss endless dimension of your love and for all the help how children could more carefully listen to the counsel of you give the fathers of your children. God bless you their fathers. Talk about times when the fathers (or grand- fathers to be equal to your overwhelming responsibilities fathers perhaps) helped family members accomplish a hard and to have a father’s special caring for each one under or difficult task. Share how your own father helped you in your protective arms. “For God so loved the world, your life. that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). ■

6 TheLATTER-DAY Sacred PROPHETS Role SPEAK of Fathers

Be Kind Express Your Love Teach for Avoid Anger Put First Things First “Let us deal in kindness “We encourage you, Understanding “A father may have to disci- “When one puts business and with appreciation with brethren, to remember that “Brethren, we are to teach pline his child, but he or pleasure above his those for whom the Lord priesthood is a righteous the fundamental doctrines should never do it in anger. home, he that moment will hold us accountable. I authority only. Earn the of the Church in such a He must show forth an starts on the downgrade to never get over the depth of respect and confidence of way that our children may increase of love thereafter, soul-weakness. When the meaning of the words your children through your understand. Some fathers lest that one so reproved club becomes more attrac- President McKay often loving relationship with teach, but their children do were to esteem him to be tive to any man than his quoted: ‘The most impor- them. A righteous father not understand. This places an enemy (see D&C home, it is time for him to BACKGROUND PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT CASEY BY PHOTOGRAPH BACKGROUND tant thing a father can do protects his children with responsibility on fathers to 121:43). The Lord forbid confess in bitter shame that for his children is to love his time and presence in study and learn the gospel. the feeling of a child that he has failed to measure up their mother’ ” [see their social, educational, “With few exceptions, his father or mother is an to the supreme opportunity Richard Evans’ Quote Book and spiritual activities and righteous sons and daugh- enemy” (The Teachings of of his life and flunked in the (1971), 11] (“Reach Out in responsibilities. Tender ters who have attained Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. final test of true manhood. Love and Kindness,” expressions of love and eternal blessings are not Williams [1996], 279). No other success can just physically begotten by Ensign, Nov. 1982, 77). affection toward children Harold B. Lee compensate for failure in their fathers. They are spiri- Gordon B. Hinckley are as much the responsi- (1899–1973), Eleventh the home. The poorest (1910–), Fifteenth bility of the father as the tually regenerated by the President of the Church shack in which love pre- President of the Church mother. Tell your children examples and teachings of vails over a united family is you love them” (“Being a their fathers. of greater value to God and Righteous Husband and “Great fathers lead their future humanity than any Father,” Ensign, Nov. 1994, children to Christ” (“Great other riches. In such a 51). Things Required of Their home God can work mira- Fathers,” Ensign, May Howard W. Hunter cles and will work mira- (1907–95), Fourteenth 1981, 36). cles” (in Conference President of the Church Ezra Taft Benson Report, Apr. 1964, 5). (1899–1994), Thirteenth President of the Church David O. McKay , (1873–1970), Ninth President of the Church

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 7 SharingFamily Heritage

BY ELDER L. TOM PERRY Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

he first part of August 2002 I reached a attempts will bring confidence and the major milestone in my life. I was pass- development of new talents. T ing from middle age to old age with my 80th birthday. To celebrate it I decided to 2. Logan Tabernacle Lesson: The Joy take my children and grandchildren on a tour of Gospel Service of Logan, Utah, my hometown, to share with “When ye are in the service of your fellow them the impact this city has had on my life. beings ye are only in the service of your I designated nine stops in Logan that I God” (Mosiah 2:17). The greatest refuge wanted my family to see. With each stop I My father served in the presidency of the we will find in our selected a scripture to teach a lesson on the Cache stake in Logan for some 20 years. It life will be those importance that particular location had in seemed appropriate to stop at the tabernacle, wonderful, close my life. where we held our stake conferences, to associations we have teach the lesson that Church service brings with our immediate 1. Logan High School Lesson: Live Up great joy and is a sure way of developing family members. to Your Potential your skills in human relationships. You enter “With some I am not well pleased, for Church service with the pure intent to build they will not open their mouths, but they hide our Father in Heaven’s kingdom. The Lord the talent which I have given unto them, more than compensates you for your time because of the fear of man” (D&C 60:2). and effort with blessings that increase your I was very shy in high school and did not talents and abilities to be used in further ser- take advantage of opportunities to vice. It is impossible to stay even with the Lord. enlarge and build my talents. I was afraid to try. The lesson I wanted to 3. My Father’s Law Office Lesson: Build teach my family is to live up to your Character, Integrity potential. Don’t be afraid to try. “For the love of money is the root of all Have confidence in yourself. You evil: which while some coveted after, they won’t succeed the first time on have erred from the faith, and pierced anything you do, but successive themselves through with many sorrows. Elder Perry talks to his children and grandchildren on the campus of Utah State University, one of nine locations in Logan, Utah, where he shared with his family a scripture and an experience from his life. Opposite page: Elder Perry as a young father with his three children—Barbara (left), Linda Gay, and Lee.

“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow position for a few years and then return to banking. I never after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, did become a banker. I tried to teach my grandchildren that meekness. choosing a major in college is not as important as develop- “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, ing integrity, ethics, and good study habits and building whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good character as a person of faith, confidence, and industry. profession before many witnesses” (1 Timothy 6:10–12). I related to my family how I had prepared myself for 4. My Birthplace Lesson: The Value of Our Heritage the banking profession. Dad was the bank attorney. From “Behold, I have given unto you the names of our first my newspaper delivery earnings, I saved enough to buy parents . . . ; and this I have done that when you remem- 10 shares of First National Bank stock. Dad insisted that I ber your names ye may remember them; and when ye attend the stockholders’ meetings and vote my 10 shares. remember them ye may remember their works; and He thought that was a way of introducing me to the banking when ye remember their works ye may know how profession. A job offer came after graduation that was much that it is said, and also written, that they were good” more lucrative than banking. I thought I would accept the (Helaman 5:6).

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 9 and integrity. He loved his family and made time for us in his busy life. Mother was always there to teach and encourage us. She was a great home- maker, a careful housekeeper, an excel- lent manager of household finances, and a wonderful cook. How I honor and love my parents.

6. Cow Pasture Lesson: Accept the Challenge of Change That Occurs in Your Life “That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day” (D&C 50:24). We checked in at the motel. After checking in I told my family, “Tonight you will sleep in the place that used to be our old cow pasture.” This is where the motel had been Above, top row: Elder Perry’s parents, L. Tom and Nora Sonne built. My, how times have changed! I will always be grateful Perry; Elder Perry as a boy. Middle row: Elder Perry as a that I grew up in an age when we plowed, planted, tended, young man (standing in the back) with his family; Logan High irrigated, and harvested. These activities were very impor- School. Bottom row: Elder Perry holding his nephew; Sonne tant in our lives. family reunion in 1937. Opposite page: The Logan Utah Future generations will have little opportunity to enjoy Temple; Elder Perry in the doorway of his childhood home. those same blessings we received. We live in a world of rapid change. Somehow we must find a way to hold onto I was given the name of my father. I honored my father the basic unchanging values and yet be ready for additional and wanted to retain the same values he had established. revealed light that will lead us to greater opportunities. Our heritage gives us those enduring values that will be with us now and through all the eternities. 7. Ice-Cream Store Lesson: The Value of Traditions “That same sociality which exists among us here will 5. Old Family Home Lesson: The Blessing of Good exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal Parents glory, which glory we do not now enjoy” (D&C 130:2). “I, Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, there- Having an ice-cream cone on every trip to Logan has fore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my become one of our many traditions. More important are father” (1 Nephi 1:1). traditions of Church activity, Church service, family loyalty, I tried to teach my family that the credit for the success and so forth. Special traditions we establish here with you achieve in life really belongs to the parents who have members of our family will endure. We should build tradi- given you a wonderful start. My father was a hard worker, tions that will be strong in our remembrance, a remem- a good provider, and a sterling example of service, honor, brance that will last even into the eternities.

10 8. Utah State University Lesson: The Value of Taking Time to Have a Happy, Successful Courtship “Whoso forbiddeth to marry is not ordained of God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man” (D&C 49:15). I explained that most of my courtship occurred at Utah State University. Dances, ball games, walking across the campus to the library, studying in the library, attending institute classes, meeting in the halls between classes, taking special walks around the campus, and so on, all gave time to becoming better acquainted and enjoying the richness of the relationship that was being developed. It became the most important thing in my life at that time. Ninth Ward building. We had arranged for a room there in When this time comes to you, it affects all that you do. which the family could gather. There was a presentation Make it precious and special. on my life, including pictures starting with my grand- parents, parents, and on through my early life. Then there 9. Logan Temple Lesson: The Importance of the Temple were pictures of my marriage and of the blessings of chil- “In the celestial glory there are three heavens or dren, followed by a collage of pictures of the events we degrees; have enjoyed together as a family. “And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter On Sunday morning we attended church in the Ninth into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and Ward chapel. This building was constructed under the everlasting covenant of marriage]; supervision of my father while he served as bishop. He “And if he does not, he cannot obtain it” (D&C 131:1–3). was the bishop for 18 years. I had the opportunity that The center of our lives must be the holy temple. We morning to bear my testimony of the blessings of the must always be worthy to enter therein. If we live worthy gospel in my life. of the covenants we make with the Lord in His house, we We then drove to our home in Salt Lake City. However, literally bind the Lord to give the blessings He has prom- before letting the family enjoy a delicious birthday dinner ised us. The Lord will fulfill His promises if we will be faith- prepared by my wife, I quizzed them on what they had ful to the covenants we make with Him. learned. I again bore witness to the divinity of the gospel We ended the tour later in the evening at the old Logan of Jesus Christ. I am absolutely convinced that the greatest refuge we will find in our life will be those wonderful, close associa- tions we have with our immediate family members. I add my witness to you. The gospel of Jesus Christ is true. It will not fail you in your life. It is the only hope for individual salvation and refuge from the storms that descend as we journey through mortality. May God con- tinue to bless you with the desire to learn more of His ways and to be obedient to His law. ■

From a devotional address given at Brigham Young University Education Week on August 20, 2002.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 11 Learning to Hear the Lord’s Voice

“Um, I wonder . . . could we hear from President If we approach Melchizedek Priesthood MODELS TTHEW REIER, POSED BY and Relief Society meetings in the right Hinckley now?” way, we will return home from church The teacher looks at the clock. “Oh!” he or she exclaims. with a testimony that we have heard the “I had so much prepared. It seems like we never have Lord’s voice and that we know His words. enough time to cover it all. Well, uh . . . let me conclude,

and then we’ll hear a few words from President Hinckley.” MA BY , DENMARK; PHOTOGRAPH After President Hinckley says a few words, the teacher thanks everyone for participating. BY AARON L. WEST Curriculum Department Someone says a prayer, and everyone magine that you are sitting in an eld- files out of the room. ers quorum, high priests group, or This is an extreme example, of IRelief Society meeting. The teacher course. If President Hinckley ever is just beginning a “Teachings for Our visits your elders quorum, high priests Time” lesson when President Gordon B. group, or Relief Society, the teacher

Hinckley walks into the room and takes will surely give him all the time he FREDERIKSBORG IN HILLERØD MUSEUM AT TIONAL HISTORIC a seat. Everyone turns and looks at needs. But what happens when we the prophet, not knowing what to say. are assigned to discuss a general con- President Hinckley breaks the silence. He excuses himself ference address by President Hinckley or the teachings of for being a few minutes late and asks if he might share President Wilford Woodruff? Do we give the words of the some counsel with the members in attendance. prophets the attention they deserve? Do we study each Now imagine that the teacher nods in President talk or chapter in preparation for our Sunday lesson? Do Hinckley’s direction, smiles, and goes on with his or her we allow ourselves to be taught by latter-day prophets? lesson. A few members raise their hands and share lengthy A second example: COURTESY OF THE NA CARL HEINRICH BLOCH, , BY comments and personal experiences—without any mention Imagine that a few weeks later, you attend another of the prophet sitting in their midst. meeting with your elders quorum (or high priests group About 40 minutes later, you can bear it no longer. You or Relief Society). The quorum president makes a few

raise your hand. When the teacher calls on you, you say, announcements and turns the time over to a teacher. THE SERMON ON MOUNT

12 Then the teacher walks to the front of the you studied the chapter last night. You raise s we teach room and says, “Today’s lesson is chapter 17 your hand, only to lower it a minute later. The and read in the Wilford Woodruff book.” He opens teacher reads on as your heart burns with a A the words the book to the first page of the chapter testimony that you have not been permitted of latter-day and starts reading. to share. prophets, we hear As the teacher reads about the blessings You look around at your brethren in the the words of the we can receive in the temple, someone in quorum. Some are reading along. Others are Lord. front of you raises his hand. It’s Brother staring at the floor, glancing at their watches González, who was sealed to his wife and periodically. A few are struggling to stay awake. children a few months ago. After keeping No one raises his hand. his hand in the air without acknowledgment from the teacher, Brother González finally gives up. The teacher continues reading. A few pages later the teacher begins reading a statement that really inspired you when When we have opportunities to teach, how can we be true to the Church’s curricu- lum and encourage good discussion? I have pondered this question, desiring to teach the truth by the power of the Spirit and receive the truth by that same power (see D&C 50:17–22). While I don’t have all the answers, I have rediscovered two scripture passages that have helped me.

“You Have Heard My Voice” The Lord declared: “These words are not of men nor of man, but of me; wherefore, you shall testify they are of me and not of man; “For it is my voice which speaketh them et one speak By the time the teacher has read the entire unto you; for they are given by my Spirit unto at a time chapter, his time is almost up. He bears his you, and by my power you can read them one L and let all testimony and concludes the lesson a little to another; and save it were by my power you listen unto his bit earlier than he needs to. Someone says could not have them; sayings, . . . that a prayer, and everyone files out of the room. “Wherefore, you can testify that you all may be edified Another extreme example? Certainly. Most have heard my voice, and know my words” of all.” teachers are anxious to hear the testimonies (D&C 18:34–36). and experiences of quorum and class mem- This counsel refers to the revelations bers. But as a Church of teachers and learn- in the Doctrine and Covenants, but it ers, we could probably improve in our efforts also applies to the teachings we discuss in to encourage and participate in meaningful Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society discussion. meetings—and in all our Sunday meetings. As we read the words of latter-day prophets Teaching and Learning in the Church to one another, we read the words of the Although these examples seem unlikely and Lord (see D&C 1:38). may even sound a bit ridiculous, they highlight I believe that if we approach teaching and two common challenges with teaching and learning in the right way, every one of us will learning in the Church: Sometimes we are so return home from church with a testimony eager to conduct a good class discussion that that we have heard the Lord’s voice. Isn’t that we stray from Church-produced resources. On our hope when we share the gospel with one the other hand, we are sometimes so intent another? When a lesson is over, we don’t want on following the prepared curriculum that we people to marvel at what we have said; we

shut off valuable discussion. hope they will rejoice in the word of the Lord. REYNALDO MARTINEZ, MODELS BY POSED BY PHOTOGRAPH

14 “All May Be Edified of All” • Instructions for “Teachings for Our Time,” found in Still, we don’t gather every Sunday merely to read to the final pages of each general conference issue of one another. The Lord taught, the Liahona and Ensign. These instructions outline “Appoint among yourselves a teacher, and let not all be a simple process for preparing a “Teachings for Our spokesmen at once; but let one speak at a time and let all Time” lesson. listen unto his sayings, that when all have spoken that all may be edified of all, and that every man may have an When It All Comes Together equal privilege” (D&C 88:122). One more example. This one really happened. We need one another’s strength, and class discussions I remember sitting in my elders quorum meeting sev- provide a great opportunity to share that strength. I love eral years ago, enjoying a lesson based on “The Family: A to see a teacher act as an instrument of the Lord, testifying Proclamation to the World.” At one point in the lesson a of truths he or she has learned during lesson preparation. member of the quorum read part of the proclamation. And my testimony grows as I hear the testimonies of oth- The instructor was about to move forward with the lesson ers. My experience is enriched when others share their when another quorum member raised his hand. “I have a experiences. I am grateful for insightful, honest, faith- question,” he said. Quoting a phrase that had just been promoting discussions at church. read, he asked, “How can we teach our children ‘to love and serve one another’?” The expression on his face and Reading and Discussing the sound of his voice revealed that this was more than Can we apply Doctrine and Covenants 18:34–36 and just a question—it was a plea for help. I was grateful that 88:122 in the same lesson? I believe we can—if we follow he asked because he expressed a plea that was in my one simple rule: begin with Doctrine and Covenants heart as well. 18:34–36. Begin by reading the teachings of the prophets. This heartfelt question changed the pace of the lesson. Establish the word of the Lord as the foundation for dis- Our teacher put his lesson plan aside temporarily. Quorum cussion, and then build on that foundation by following members paused to think, and some shared ideas and the principle in Doctrine and Covenants 88:122. experiences in response to their friend’s question. Then This rule is so simple that it almost doesn’t need to be the teacher shared an insight of his own and continued said. However, it can have a profound effect on the way with the lesson, focusing on other truths in the proclama- we approach teaching and learning in the Church. For tion. The discussion lasted only a few minutes, but it con- specific ideas on how teachers and learners can follow tinues to influence my family and me. this rule, we can consult the following Church-produced Doctrine and Covenants 18:34–36 and 88:122 came resources: together in that quorum meeting. The process began with a teacher who was humble and wise enough to invite us • Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford to read the words of the prophets. It continued when a Woodruff, introduction. These pages include help for quorum member had the courage to ask a question—to individual study and lesson preparation. They outline ask for help. Then, as different men with different back- a pattern teachers can follow as they prepare lessons grounds spoke one at a time, “all [were] edified of all.” I from the book. testify that by the power of the Holy Ghost, I heard the • Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford Lord’s voice that day—first through His prophets and sec- Woodruff, chapter 6. This chapter, titled “Teaching and ond through my neighbors and friends. And I went home Learning by the Spirit,” contains inspiring counsel on knowing the word of the Lord better than I had the day what we should do when we gather to learn the gospel. before. ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 15 “He“He ToTo ok ok MyMy

BY GRACE BRASSE PANNELL How could I calm a disruptive six-year-old and restore peace to my class?

ne Sunday shortly after I became a member of the OChurch, I was asked at the last minute to be a substitute teacher for a class of five- and six-year-olds whose regular teacher had suddenly become ill. When I belonged to another church, I had taught teenagers and adults, but I had no experience teaching young children. This would be a class of boys and girls I had never met, whose names I did not even know. But I had been asked, so I agreed, de- pending on the Lord to see that everything worked out all right—for all of us. I walked into the room feeling unpre- pared, not really knowing what to expect. Fortunately, the lesson was on Jesus, a subject so dear to my heart that I would have many meaningful things to share with the children. After a brief getting-to-know-you period, I began talking to the children about the goodness, love, and selflessness of our beloved Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All

would have been well if not for one little ROGER MOTZKUS BY ILLUSTRATION boy who was too restless to settle down and

16 ShSh e!e!””

listen. Soon he was noisily running around the room, periodically poking or tussling with classmates who were trying to pay attention. I made repeated attempts to reason with him, to get him to stop, to coax him to join the rest of us. But reason seemed to have no power over him that day. Soon his disruptive behavior elicited a feminine outcry that quickly became a plaintive wail and then an outraged “He took my shoe!” Turning my head, I saw one of the little girls pointing an accusing finger at the laughing, provoking figure of her tormenter. and with his little head contritely Trying to catch him was an exercise in futility. Every bowed, quietly said, “I’m sorry.” time I thought I had him, he managed to pull free. The first question could be viewed Then the Holy Spirit rescued us all. A moment before, as a natural result of my focus on Jesus as I had been completely frustrated, with no idea of how I was teaching the lesson, but the second to proceed. But now, quite suddenly, I found myself stand- was pure inspiration. The ability I was ing in the middle of the room calmly, even lovingly, making given to feel and express a great, loving eye contact with the young culprit, who had stopped mo- calm in the midst of a turbulent situa- mentarily to catch his breath. I gently asked him, “What tion, and the ability that six-year-old would Jesus do?” child was given to instantly exit the The expression on his face sobered, and after a mo- “hyper” mode and respond as he did, ment’s thought he walked over to within a few feet of the came from a higher level than the one on little girl and suddenly pitched her shoe at her, loudly which we mortals customarily live. voicing a still defiant but partially acquiescent “Here!” The lesson I learned that day has stood me—and those “How would Jesus do it?” I found myself asking him in a around me whose lives are affected by my behavior—in kind, unruffled voice. And that little child, who had been so good stead ever since. I am grateful I was taught in such unruly but who understood enough about Jesus to com- an effective way that there are better ways to cope with prehend how He would act and who loved Him enough to disruptive behavior on the part of a child who knows and not want to misrepresent Him, retrieved the shoe from the loves the Lord but is temporarily out of control than by re- floor. Then he walked slowly over to the girl, humbly held sponding in kind. These ways include asking, “What would out the shoe to her as if presenting her with an offering, Jesus do?” and “How would Jesus do it?” ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 17 FOR THE DIVORCED SINGLE PARENT BY KAYE TERRY HANSON I never planned on being a single mother, but several important decisions helped me make the most of a difficult situation.

fter agonizing decisions and many Our home teacher and his wife attended months of trying to determine the my children’s dance recitals and track meets A right thing to do, my husband and and invited us to dinner. He told us all that I divorced. I raised two children alone. we were terrific, and gradually we learned to Family, not fault, is what I focus on now as I believe him. Over the years he gave my son a look back and try to share some of what my baseball mitt, priesthood blessings, his ordi- ver the years my experiences have taught me. I earnestly pray nation to the priesthood, advice on starting a home teacher that you will never need this information. But business, and the perfect example of what Ohas given my I know that even if you are not a single par- home teaching is. He gave my daughter ten- children priesthood ent, you will have friends, ward members, nis lessons, flowers when she won the track blessings, tennis lessons, and family members you may be able to help. meet, her first job, and the perfect example and advice on starting Based on my experience, I would suggest of gentlemanly kindness. He attended their a business. He has been three areas of consideration for a divorced weddings in the temple and exulted over the the perfect example of single parent: births of their first children. Long gentlemanly kindness • The gospel and the Church after having moved from the ward, he still and what true home • The children remains a friend and a mentor to all of us. teaching is. Long after • Yourself having moved from the 3. Use music, prayer, and scriptures. ward, he still remains Shortly after the divorce, when the chil- a friend and mentor The Gospel and the Church dren were just five and one, I found it hard- to all of us. 1. Choose to live the gospel and est3 after they were tucked into their beds at be completely active in the Church. night. Often my loneliness seemed unbear- Be there. It’s where you belong. Sit closer able. I discovered that the classical music to1 the front than you usually do. Arrive early station on the radio soothed my troubled enough so you can greet people as you go to soul. your seat. Sing the hymns. Have your children Prayers became more earnest and more close beside you. Hug them and hold their pleading, and the scriptures became a lifeline hands so they will recognize church as a safe, to sustain me through the maze of complexi- comfortable, happy place to be. On the way in ties I faced each day. Both prayers and scrip- and out, assign yourself to smile at and speak tures brought revelation and comfort and to several people. Remember, you belong. hope. I will never know, but I sometimes wonder how long the despair might have 2. Ask for good home teachers. lasted if I had not had music and prayer and When I moved to a new ward as a single scriptures. parent, our new home teacher had been my bishop2 10 years earlier in another city. He was 4. Pay tithing. perfect for us. He had a son the same age as Even at this time of potential financial chal- mine. When my home teacher signed his boy lenges—especially at this time—keep your up for Little League or soccer, he signed mine tithing4 current that you may have access to

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROBERT CASEY, POSED BY MODELS POSED BY ROBERT CASEY, BY PHOTOGRAPHS up too. promised blessings.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 19 reserve as much of the Pfamiliar as possible for your children. Establish a routine, and keep as many family traditions as you can.

5. Serve. fielded my concerns about calling a Laurel teacher who Serving gets us outside ourselves. It opens the windows of was married to a nonmember. “It’s not where she is right heaven and teaches principles that may not come any other now,” he said, “but where her heart is. She longs to be way.5 I’m reminded of the terrible first week when my hus- married in the temple. She is a good example to the band left. I didn’t know where he had gone or what would Laurels.” And as I came to know her, I fully agreed. Could happen next. I was the Spiritual Living teacher in Relief it be that if my heart was right I could serve in such leader- Society, and the lesson was on the Prophet Joseph Smith. No ship callings? From my current vantage point I say yes. one in the ward except the bishop knew my husband had gone away, and I determined that I must teach that lesson. I 6. Attend the temple. had served a mission, been married in the temple, finished Reviewing those sacred eternal promises again and graduate school, and borne testimony of the truthfulness of again eventually helped me focus on their meaning and the gospel and the Prophet Joseph Smith many, many times. gave6 me new perspective. After a long time I volunteered Yet on that day, in the sunny room of our ward Relief Society, I for sealings and heard the words I had heard at my own was allowed to know, to feel completely, to recognize with a temple marriage. This time they took on new meaning as surety beyond question, that the Prophet Joseph Smith had I tried to look at the promises from the viewpoint of some- restored the gospel of Jesus Christ in its fulness. I remain for- one who had never received them in this life. I think of ever grateful that I was allowed to serve on that day when my temple work as the ultimate service, allowing us to get out- world was crashing down on every side. side ourselves for the sake of someone else. Later I was called to be Primary president in my new ward. I couldn’t believe the courage of the bishop in call- ing me to lead the little children. I felt I was not a good The Children role model, and I thought such service would be denied 1. Develop family routines and traditions. me forever. Then I remembered a wise bishop years before Preserve as much of the familiar as possible. Establish a who, when I was serving as Young Women president, had routine.1 For example, each day we go to school, eat dinner 20 at six o’clock, and read scriptures together “Well,” he responded, “it will be your job to before we go to bed. We also practice the be in charge of everything. And I will help you. piano, do homework, and play on the soccer And it will be Gretchen’s job to make us laugh.” team. To this day I am astonished at his wisdom. Keep as many family traditions as you can. That statement got us through many a hard Have special dinners and birthday celebra- time. Sometimes, after some messy project learned how tions. Listen to friends’ suggestions and find we would find Gretchen in, he would jump important it is some new traditions that you can make your to his little sister’s defense by telling me, I to write down the very own. “Remember, Mom, she’s just doing her job!” delightful things your And we would all relax in laughter, remem- children say, to talk 2. Realize that each child goes through bering his comment about assignments. about your feelings different stages of understanding at for your children at different times. 4. Learn to bite your tongue. different ages and 2When my son was six and his sister was Don’t criticize the absent parent—ever, different stages, and two, they would race to their daddy as he but especially not in front of the children. I to keep family photo drove into the driveway to pick them up. By 4was blessed with a friend who taught me that albums or scrapbooks. the time my son turned ten, he would stand very early in my pain. She was older, and her at my side struggling with where his loyalties aging mother had come to live with her. My should be while his six-year-old sister still flew friend said her mother, who had been di- out the door to welcome her daddy. A few vorced from her father many years before, years later my maturing, manly son of four- complained endlessly about her father’s teen could stride out the door to welcome faults—his drinking, his attitude, his personal his father while my now ten-year-old daugh- habits, his clothing. My friend then said, ter would stand by my side struggling with “Guess who I feel sorry for?” and “Guess who where her loyalties were. No matter how far I identify with?” My friend said it didn’t matter away they got from the initial pain, they had how much truth was in her mother’s state- to process what they were feeling in an age- ments; she began, after all those years, to appropriate manner. As I grew to understand side with her father. that, I was better able to encourage them to That’s when I remembered again that the be themselves and to reach out across what commandment is “Honour thy father and thy could have been awkward situations. mother” (Exodus 20:12). And I knew that if I did my job right, my children would love 3. Rejoice in your children. their father. After a divorce, children develop an un- usual maturity in some matters. I remember 5. Keep a scrapbook for each child. driving3 down the freeway with my children Write down the delightful things they say. when, out of the blue, my son said to me, Talk about your feelings for the child at differ- “We will all have new jobs now.” 5ent ages and different stages. Keep a box of Wondering where he was going with that, treasures for each one. Tuck in some of their I asked, “What do you mean?” drawings or their notes to you as they grow.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 21 o something. Give yourself purpose Dat something you like to do or want to learn. Start anywhere. Just start.

Keep family photo albums or scrapbooks. I was gratified don’t have to line up behind one of us or the other and with the importance of those simple snapshots when the take sides. children each brought the person they eventually married into the living room and shared the family albums and all 2. Face your fears. their childhood memories with them. We all laughed and I had grown up being afraid of the dark. When I became remembered and began to love each other as extended the only adult sleeping in the house, I worried about that. My2 washer and dryer were in the garage, and I didn’t dare family. go out there to change the clothes from the washer to the dryer if it was dark outside. Now that I was alone with the Yourself children, I realized I couldn’t indulge in that fear anymore. 1. Allow those who love you to be helpful. I knew I couldn’t risk frightening my children, nor could I So many people still love you after your marriage face a world where I was afraid after sundown. So I took it ends. For me these include every member of my hus- to the Lord. I explained how I was afraid, how I needed to band’s1 family. One of my husband’s brothers and his wife be braver, and I pleaded for Him to take the fear away. He insisted that they stay in my life. My sister-in-law called did. The fear was gone—simply gone. I didn’t even have to me every day at first, just to be sure I was all right. She think about it anymore. Since then I have confronted dark- proved to be trustworthy, offering help and ever able to ness many times and have not been afraid. keep a confidence. My brother-in-law offered priesthood Another fear was the financial one. During those first blessings to my children and simply raved over their ac- weeks of heavy burden, even though I had a master’s complishments. I came to know that those dear people degree, my feelings of self-worth were so low I could see had hearts so kind and good that they could appreciate nothing possible but the most menial jobs. Not knowing my children without feeling any threat to the worth of how to get a meaningful job in that frame of mind, I chose their own. Never at any time did I question their love of to return to graduate school to open job opportunities their brother, my former husband. What I learned was again. For me it has been a heaven-sent decision, offering that they could love us both. Family and friends really opportunities I never could have imagined.

22 3. Do something. my grandchildren come with questions. “Why Make quilts, go to a ball game, paint pic- didn’t you and Grandpa stay married?” “What tures, take a hike, bottle fruit, start a busi- is divorce?” “Will my mommy and daddy get ness,3 write a book, do family history, build divorced?” The pain comes again in an entirely bookshelves, paint rooms, go back to school, different context, and I return to my knees to read biographies, take tennis lessons, practice ask the Lord for right answers to their queries. worried for 13 the piano, plant a garden, learn to use new years about the computer software, sing in a trio, take bicycle 7. Keep a journal. I day my son would rides, walk every day. Do something. Give Writing is often therapeutic and is always use- speak in church before yourself purpose at something you like to do ful. If you write what you are feeling, you will find leaving on a mission. or want to learn. Start anywhere. Just start. 7over time that you are progressing. Looking back, But when the day came, you will discover you are not quite as sad or as I was able to walk into 4. Be generous to and gracious with your confused or as desolate as you once were. Here is the audience before the former spouse. a place to plead with the Lord, to explore your meeting started and There is simply no point in wasting time thinking, to understand your own struggle. In my greet my son’s father. It or4 energy or thought on bitterness or revenge. journal I can dream, explain, explore, and come was good for my son. It Life is too short. Besides, such sentiments leave back another day and find I was completely off was good for me. their deepest scars on you, not on your former base. It helps my sanity and my testimony. spouse. Accept the fact that you’ll get better at it over time, and begin as early as you can. Adversity 5. Allow yourself time. These ideas have helped me deal with the ad- Everything seems to get better over time. versities of living in this telestial world. Do I wish Just as our miraculous bodies bear the ability this particular adversity hadn’t happened? Oh, to5 heal themselves, so do our marvelous minds yes. But it did, and I have learned many things. and spirits, if we let them. Be patient with your- I think of Joseph Smith and the adversities self and with the children’s emotions. I worried that came with restoring the gospel of Jesus for 13 years about the day my son would speak Christ, and I hang onto knowing that “all these in church before leaving on a mission. But things shall give thee experience, and shall be when the day came, I was able to walk into the for thy good” (D&C 122:7). I think of the audience before the meeting started and greet Savior Himself in the council in heaven saying, my son’s father. It was good for my son. It was “We will prove them herewith, to see if they good for me. will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them” (Abraham 3:25). 6. Accept that even if the divorce is final, The gospel of Jesus Christ is true. The the relationship may never be. plan of salvation allows each of us to choose The court may say the divorce is final, but to return and live with our Father in Heaven if6 you have children, the worlds you and your again. Choosing is the key to who we are former spouse inhabit will likely keep circling and where we are going. I want to live into each other. One surprise to me is that now with Him again. ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 23 LESSONS FROM THE

OLD TESTAMENT Trust in the Lord Forever

BY MARGARET S. LIFFERTH of the blessings promised to the house of First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency Israel. “Yet now hear, . . . Israel, whom I have saiah was called to a difficult task. He chosen: . . . I will pour my spirit upon thy was the prophet for the people of Judah seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring” Iwhen they lived in apostasy and, for the (Isaiah 44:1, 3). most part, followed the leadership of wicked The words of Isaiah are preserved specifi- rulers. It was a time of oppression of the cally for us. They are referred to throughout poor, increased idolatry, and transgression the scriptures. The Book of Mormon prophet of moral laws as the kingdoms of Judah and Jacob reminds us: “There are many things Israel faced the advancing armies of hostile which have been spoken by Isaiah which may We will recognize neighbors. be likened unto you, because ye are of the His guiding hand in Isaiah’s counsel to the people was to house of Israel” (2 Nephi 6:5). How do the our lives as we live repent, believe in the coming Messiah, and teachings of Isaiah apply to us? How can we worthy to receive the “trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord liken his words to each of us individually? promptings of His Jehovah is everlasting strength” (Isaiah 26:4). Spirit and then as When the people listened, they prospered. Seeking the Lord we act upon those But Isaiah watched in sorrow as the covenant Just as Isaiah and the people of his day promptings. house of Israel ultimately rejected divine lived on a political and moral battlefield, we ; counsel. Moved by inspiration, Isaiah prophe- do too. When Isaiah entreated his hearers sied of the destruction and scattering of Israel to trust in the Lord, he was also talking to us. and lived to see the captivity of the ten tribes How do we seek the direction, strength, and of Israel and the approaching end of Judah’s protection of the Lord and then recognize power and prosperity. and acknowledge His hand in our lives? TOGRAPH BY BUSATH PHOTOGRAPHY BUSATH BY TOGRAPH

But in his great prophetic calling, Isaiah Great blessings become available to us Y CARL HEINRICH BLOCH also saw us, the covenant people of the latter as we make and keep covenants. Specifically, days. He received comfort in knowing that when we are baptized and confirmed, we not only would the kingdom of God again are given the gift of the Holy Ghost. As we be established on the earth but that Saints keep our covenants and renew them every , B FROM CHRIST WITH BOY DETAIL in the latter days would seek and live worthy week when we take the sacrament, we are PHO SAM LAWLOR; BY ILLUSTRATED

24 promised that we may “always have his us with the strength to learn the impor- Spirit to be with” us (Moroni 4:3; D&C tant lessons of life. 20:77). The promises of the Lord are sure. We will recognize His guiding hand Divine Guidance in our lives as we live worthy to receive It is a privilege and a blessing to seek the promptings of His Spirit and then the guidance of the Lord as we come to as we act upon those promptings. Him in prayer. We seek His will for us in In addition to the scriptures and guid- the diverse circumstances of our lives: ance of living prophets, I have found at least three ways when we are deciding whom to marry and when; what that the Lord can give direction to our lives: education or career to pursue or where to live; when we are seeking to know how to serve in a calling, how to help 1. We can receive answers to specific prayers. in family matters, or how to assist a neighbor or a child; 2. The Lord will often influence our thoughts, words, and when we need to know what lessons we and actions even when we have not sought spe- should learn from adversity. cific direction. Most of the time my prayers on 3. When we face adversity and think we have matters such as this are answered been abandoned by the Lord, He will bless

uddenly it became clear to me that I needed to go early to my Sdaughter’s school and pick her up. How grateful I am that the Lord will guide a mother to comfort her child. ometimes the specifically. At other times I am left to make have had questions or doubts or when they Lord answers a decision with my own best judgment. felt desires to follow the world. I have discov- Sour prayers Sometimes the Lord has a different timetable ered that often the necessary words to say or specifically. At other in mind for me, but I gratefully acknowledge actions to take “shall be given you in the very times we are left His hand in my life as He answers my prayers. hour” (D&C 100:6). to make decisions I have also discovered that the Lord is gen- As we each face adversity, there may be according to our erous and will often guide us in matters for times when we wonder if the Lord is mindful own best judgment. which we have not sought direction. Some of us. Isaiah teaches us to trust the Lord time ago one of our children had run for an even then: elected office at the junior high school she “And though the Lord give you the bread of attended. It was the day of the election, and adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall I was home, busy with the routine of the day. not thy teachers be removed into a corner any Suddenly, it came clearly to my mind that our more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers: daughter had lost the election and I needed “And thine ears shall hear a word behind to go early to the school to pick her up. I thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it” watched the clock, and when I knew it was (Isaiah 30:20–21). time for the election results to be announced, Adversity often makes us more receptive I arrived at the school. As I walked through the to the promptings of the Spirit. And we front door, all the youth who had participated “shall return even to the Lord, and he shall in the election were seated in the front hall. be intreated of [us] and shall heal [us]” They were listening to the results before they (Isaiah 19:22). When we trust in the Lord were announced to the other students. Our during adversity, we open the door to His daughter was grateful for an early ride home strengthening and healing power. in order to collect her thoughts, emotions, and priorities before meeting her friends the “We Will Be Glad and Rejoice” next day. I am grateful that the Lord, I know that as we liken the teachings of who created the universe, will also Isaiah to our own lives, we will rejoice in his guide a mother to comfort the counsel to “trust ye in the Lord for ever.” As heart of a child. we make and keep covenants and as we fol- I have felt the promptings of low the promptings of His Spirit, the hand the Spirit at other times when of the Lord will guide our lives and we can I have not sought specific dir- be sure of promised blessings. ection. It has been there to “He will swallow up death in victory; and warn me. It has helped me when I the Lord God will wipe away tears from off didn’t know what to say or do in my efforts all faces. . . . to “mourn with those that mourn . . . and “And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is comfort those that stand in need of com- our God; we have waited for him, and he will fort” (Mosiah 18:9). It has confirmed the save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for truths taught in a lesson or a talk and has him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salva- directed my response when my children tion” (Isaiah 25:8–9). ■

26 IN THE SHADOW OF DEATH

BY LOIS MC CUNE SEWELL

As I have faced cancer, I have learned bone damage and to help with pain management. Beyond that the most important thing is not that, the doctor told me, there was nothing that could how we die but how we have lived. forestall the progression of the disease. What does a person do when faced with a death sen- our cancer has returned.” I was shocked at my tence? People often go through these stages of grieving: oncologist’s words. It had been almost six years denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.1 I Ysince I had had surgery and chemotherapy for felt I had dealt with the first four stages during my previ- breast cancer, which had been discovered during a rou- ous encounter with cancer, but I find that some of these tine mammogram. Now I was at my oncologist’s office feelings still emerge every now and then. to learn the results of a previous routine blood test. I am now working on the acceptance stage. However, I My daughter and I looked at the doctor, speechless, and am not going to just lie down in bed, turn my face to the then I lamely said, “Well, at least I have my will made out.” wall, and wait to die. Far from it! I intend to live my life as I knew that breast cancer can return 10 or even 20 years fully as possible as long as I can. I have renewed my pass- after an initial episode. However, I had had so many good port in hopes of visiting an old friend in Germany, and I checkups since my first bout with cancer that I had ordered more flowers for my garden. But I realize that ulti- become rather complacent. mately Heavenly Father is in charge. I must rely on my The first question I could manage was “How long do I faith and my knowledge that God is good, that He knows have?” The doctor replied, “I can’t tell you that. No one me, and that He is aware of my circumstances. He is there can. You might have several months or several years.” We to help all of us bear our suffering, to listen to our prayers, decided I would undergo drug therapy to prevent further and to give us peace. ILLUSTRATIONS BY DILLEEN MARSH BY ILLUSTRATIONS ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 27 Prayer After the diagnosis, I did not pray for a miracle cure. My they are thankful for their trials. At times I think to myself, first prayer was a prayer for strength to endure this disease “I would like deliverance from mine.” But I know I really to the end and for a feeling of peace. Heavenly Father has have grown from these experiences and that my faith has answered this prayer and continues to answer it daily as I increased. Often it is life’s most difficult lessons that have continue to pray. And yet I have come to understand to the most to teach us. some degree what Jesus meant when He prayed, I have learned so much about hope. Hope is a word “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup we find often in the scriptures and use frequently in our pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but prayers and daily conversations. Hope still as thou wilt” (Matthew 26:39). exists for those facing death, but it is a different In the past, I often said my prayers in a kind of hope. It is not always the hope for a rather mechanical fashion. I have learned to cure but rather for a good day, a pleasant visit pray with more depth. I have tried to under- with family and friends, an uplifting sacra- stand better the meaning of the Atonement, ne day ment meeting or time spent reading the and sometimes I have wonderful insights. in my scriptures. It is the hope of living the rest of And yet many times I feel a poignant sense Ogarden, one’s life in dignity and being remembered as of isolation and loneliness. I will catch I was over- a good and caring person after one’s death. It myself saying, “I have no future.” But then whelmed with a is the hope of peace and strength; a hope of I correct myself and say, “I have no future feeling of intense faith to be fulfilled; a hope, ultimately, in the here on earth, but I have a future in the next joy. I have had saving power of Jesus Christ. life. I must work toward that future.” similar moments since then, such Finding Joy Opposition in All Things as when I saw I have adopted several mottoes that help At first I worried about what to say to peo- two silver foxes me deal with my condition day to day. One is ple who asked, “How are you?” Should I say, slipping through “You’re alive until you’re dead.” Another I “I’m dying of cancer”? Eventually I decided the woods. found in an e-mail message: “It’s not the num- to just say, “I’m fine,” because basically I am ber of breaths we take in this life that matters, still feeling pretty good, and grocery store but rather the number of moments that take clerks don’t need to know about my health our breath away.” I have had many of these problems anyway. All of us will have unpleasant or sad expe- moments. One of the surprising things I have discovered riences in this life. This is in accordance with the scriptures: is that I can be happy even when facing death. “For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all I learned that one day in my garden last year. The sun things. If not so, . . . righteousness could not be brought to was just coming up, and the flowers were covered with pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, nei- dew. Birds were singing in the trees and shrubs around ther good nor bad” (2 Nephi 2:11). Similarly, we read in me. Suddenly I was overwhelmed with a feeling of intense Doctrine and Covenants 29:39, “For if they never should joy and happiness. I wondered how I could be feeling such have bitter they could not know the sweet.” joy at that time. But rather than question it too deeply, I In fast and testimony meetings I have heard people say just let the feeling wash over me.

28 SUBMISSION AT DEATH “Uncertainty as to longevity leaves a balance to be struck by us all. We are to salute the Lord for the gift of life, for as long as it lasts, and yet, Later, in my bedroom, I glanced at a at the same time, to be spiritually New Era poster on my wall with a quo- submissive as it ends. . . . tation from John 14:18: “I will not leave “ . . . When death comes to all you comfortless: I will come to you.” of us, as a result thereof some Then I understood. The Savior had things will be clearly missed. But come to me figuratively in my garden, these are small dunes of depriva- letting me feel His love and comforting tion when placed alongside that me through the beauty of the world vast Himalayan range of all our around me. I was so thankful! I have past and present blessings.” had many similar moments since Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum then, such as when I saw two sil- of the Twelve Apostles (1926–2004), One More Strain of Praise (1999), 12, 14. ver foxes slipping through the woods, watched the full moon set in the morning as I took my dogs out in the darkness, and admired the intense colors of the leaves on sugar maple trees glowing

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 29 in the sunshine on an October day. I know the Lord will find something every day that will make me laugh. I have continue to send me such moments when I need them. also gained much joy from helping people. When I am feeling down, nothing helps me more than to write to a Making the Most of My Time friend or to think of something nice to do for someone. After my diagnosis, I knew I needed to assess where I It is also important to have someone to talk to. I have was in my life if I was to make the most of the been blessed to have tremendous support from my hus- time I had left. I had repented of my major band, other family members, and several dear sins, but there were still areas that needed friends. When we pray to Heavenly Father for work. I needed to spend more time with the help, our prayers are often answered through scriptures. I needed to mend some personal other people. I am thankful for the strength I relationships. I needed to do my temple receive through others. work. I had done baptisms for the dead, but I I have come to find personal meaning in had hesitated to do my own work for fear it many of the words of our Latter-day Saint might put a wedge between me and my hus- hymns. I have always loved the hymn “The band, who is not a member of the Church. Lord My Pasture Will Prepare,” and I have However, my husband felt fine about my needed to make come to better understand these words: “My receiving my endowment. I had also prom- the most of the noonday walks he will attend, / And all my ised myself that I would do the temple work I time I had left. silent midnight hours defend.”2 It is often in for a family member who had gained a testi- I received my the still of the night when fears and doubts mony before she passed away. endowment and rage most strongly. I also resonate to these Some temporal items were on my “to do” did temple work words from “How Firm a Foundation”: “In list. I wanted to tie a quilt I had promised my for my ancestors. ev’ry condition—in sickness, in health, / . . . As daughter last summer, and I wanted to visit Temporal items on my thy days may demand, so thy succor shall be.”3 my relatives in the West. I have accomplished “to do” list included those things, but others are still pending. tying a quilt. The Power of the Scriptures I have become very aware of how I use my As I face death, my scripture study has day. I used to spend far too much time playing become more meaningful. I often find computer games. However, on the day I got insights and interpretations that escaped me word that the cancer had returned, I said to myself, before. Many of the scriptures speak directly to me, and “Computer games are such a waste of time.” I have never they help me to live with this disease. been tempted to play a game since that day. I have also Memorizing scriptures has given me strength. I often become careful about what television shows I watch and recite to myself, “For God hath not given us the spirit what I read. I want to spend my time in worthwhile ways. of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). I find comfort in John 14:27: “Peace I Sources of Comfort leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world I have found that I enjoy being around upbeat people. A giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, sense of humor is more important now than ever. I try to neither let it be afraid.”

30 eventually. However, from an eternal perspective, the most important thing is not how we die but how we have lived. Have we put our lives in order? Have we accomplished the really important things? Have we put aside that which is unimportant? Yes, I am living in the shadow of death. But I find comfort in the gospel, in the eternal perspective it provides, and in the Savior. I echo the Psalmist’s I also think of Romans 8:35–37: words to the Lord: “Yea, in the shadow of thy wings “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall will I make my refuge, until these calamities be over- tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or past” (Psalm 57:1). ■ nakedness, or peril, or sword? NOTES 1. See Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, On Death and Dying (1969). “As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day 2. Hymns, no. 109. long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 3. Hymns, no. 85. “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” When we face personal and family problems, even seri- ous illnesses, we can be conquerors. We may be physically destroyed, but we need not be defeated. I pray that I shall be able to endure to the end. We are all going to die or behold, this life is the F time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors” (Alma 34:32).

32 Fulfilling Our Duty to God A Window of Opportunity

In this fall’s Young Men open house BY CHARLES W. DAHLQUIST II Young Men General President and workshops, as well as in other upcom- ing training, the Young Men general presi- How parents and leaders dency will be emphasizing the important role can help young men achieve parents and quorum leaders play in helping young men reap the promised blessings of this program. the Duty to God Award. As I have traveled throughout the world, I have been he First Presidency announced a few pleased with the progress young men have made in the years ago a new achievement program program. However, there are still many young men and Tfor the young men of the Church. their leaders who know very little about the program. Yet Aaronic Priesthood: Fulfilling Our Duty to our youth are hungry for opportunities to achieve and God was created to help young men prepare develop their talents and abilities. for the Melchizedek Priesthood, the temple I was recently in Vladivostok, on the east coast of endowment, a full-time mission, marriage, Russia. As I sat on the stand at the beginning of a youth and fatherhood through setting and achiev- and adult fireside, I noticed a young man in the second ing worthy goals. On September 28, 2001, row immersed in a Duty to God guidebook for priests. I the First Presidency sent a letter to priest- was thrilled and thought to myself: “Marvelous! Seventeen hood leaders stating: “We desire all time zones away from Salt Lake City, and Duty to God is young men to strive to earn the Eagle alive and well.” When I rose to speak, I asked him what his Scout [in the United States and Canada] name was. and Duty to God Awards. We desire all “Gere” was the reply. young women to strive to earn the Young “How old are you?” Womanhood Recognition. As youth work on these goals, “Seventeen.” they will develop skills and attributes that will lead them I then moved to my real inquiry: “I noticed that you have to the temple and prepare them for a lifetime of service been reading a book. What book have you been reading?” to their families and the Lord.” Quick came the reply: “I don’t know.” PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROBERT CASEY BY PHOTOGRAPHS ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 33 “Well, where did you get it?” ome of the “Out in the hall just before the Duty to God meeting” was his reply. requirements Immediately, as Gere spoke, S include giving family Dimitri, a young man on the front home evening row, jumped up, left the room, lessons, preparing quickly returned with his own family meals, copy, and began to read. They were and reading the so ready for opportunities to grow. scriptures daily. The program is intended to be individual, quorum, and family oriented. This means that many of the require- ments for each of the deacon, teacher, and priest awards may be accom- plished at home—and signed off by a young man’s parents. Thus, the first place a young man and his parents should become acquainted with the program and the guidebook is in the home. Let’s see just how this might happen.

The Visit from Priesthood Leaders My friend Dan is 11 years old, and soon he will be ordained a deacon. Shortly before he becomes a dea- con, Dan will receive a visit from the deacons quorum presidency in

his ward and either a member of the bishopric or his things that Dan deacons quorum will be able to do when he adviser to welcome receives the Aaronic Priesthood and is Quorum and ward leaders him into the quorum. ordained a deacon, such as passing the sacrament, collect- will visit young men to explain They will explain to ing fast offerings, being involved in service projects, and the Duty to God program. Dan and his parents attending priesthood meeting and Mutual. all the wonderful They will probably also share with Dan the wonderful

34 blessing it is to bear the Aaronic Priesthood, CHECKLIST FOR PARENTS which was restored by John the Baptist when 1. Get a copy of the Guidebook for he appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Parents and Leaders of Cowdery on the banks of the Susquehanna Youth (item no. 36415) River and said, “Upon you my fellow servants, as well as the appropri- in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood ate Aaronic Priesthood: of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering Fulfilling Our Duty to God of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of guidebook (item nos. baptism by immersion for the remission of sins” 36412 [deacon], 36413 (D&C 13:1). [teacher], 36414 [priest]). If you don’t already have a They will bring Dan his own copy of the deacon’s guidebook, you may wish to show Aaronic Priesthood: Fulfilling Our Duty to God guide- this article to your bishop or branch book. They will explain to Dan what the program is and president or to your son’s Aaronic Priesthood adviser and what it is to accomplish. They might have Dan read the ask when you might expect a visit. (These guidebooks are promise of the First Presidency to each deacon who works available at no charge at local distribution centers and through on and achieves the Duty to God Award: www.ldscatalog.com.) “The Lord believes in you and has an important mission 2. Become familiar with each of the requirements for the for you to do. He will help you as you turn to Him in appropriate Duty to God certificate. prayer. Listen for the promptings of the Spirit. Obey the 3. With your son, review the requirements he has com- commandments. Make and keep covenants that will pre- pleted, and help him select those he still needs to accomplish. pare you for the temple. Work with your parents and lead- You may find the Duty to God Achievement Record (item no. ers as you set goals and strive to achieve them. You will feel 36720) helpful. Remember, you can modify the requirements a great sense of accomplishment as you fulfill your duty and or write your own to meet the needs of some young men. prepare for the exciting challenges of the future.”1 4. Help your son plan when he will work on and complete each goal. Discuss how you and the family can help him. You might also discuss how each of these goals will strengthen In the Home the family and help prepare your son to become an effective Since many of the requirements can and should be ful- missionary. filled in the home, the quorum adviser will suggest that 5. Set a regular time to review progress. Have your son Dan’s father and mother become familiar with the require- keep his guidebook in a safe place. Remember that young men ments. Dan’s parents may receive a Guidebook for Parents need praise when they have accomplished a goal. Be gener- and Leaders of Youth ous, specific, and sincere in your praise. (item no. 36415), 6. Repeat steps 3 to 5 above. Have fun working with your which explains their son as he strives to complete his requirements. role in helping Dan. A number of the require- want to know, for example, that one requirement is for ments (especially Dan to give four family home evening lessons during his those in the “Family time as a deacon. They can arrange for him to learn how to Activities” and “Spiritual prepare and give those lessons. They will also want to Development” sec- know that Dan (and possibly the entire family) will review tions) are appropriate and rememorize the Articles of Faith. Dan also needs to for family home Parents should be familiar prepare at least two meals for his family, fill out a four- evenings or for Sunday with the Duty to God requirements generation pedigree chart, complete a service project, and will help Dan keep because many of them will be develop the habit of reading the scriptures daily, and read the Sabbath day holy. fulfilled in the home. the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet (item no. 36550) His parents will and discuss it with his parents or priesthood leader.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 35 are helping strengthen our family and helping you be a SCOUTING AND DUTY TO GOD better son? How are your efforts preparing you to be a Aaronic Priesthood: husband and father? (In families without a father in the Fulfilling Our Duty to God home, this is a wonderful time for a mother to talk with is an approved priest- her son about his goals and dreams and to discuss these hood achievement pro- same questions.) gram that, along with Scouting in the United In the Quorum States and Canada, helps Dan’s quorum president may mention to him that some prepare a young man to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood, receive temple ordinances, and of the requirements are quorum based and that quorum serve a worthy, full-time mission. Many Scouting requirements activities will be planned to help Dan fulfill these require- also fulfill Duty to God requirements. ments. The president may also review Dan’s progress with Both programs become more effective in strengthening young him periodically and may check men when leaders and parents understand the programs and can uorum with Dan’s parents now and help young men set goals to accomplish both the Eagle Scout presidencies Award and the Duty to God Award. Qand advisers Where Scouting is available, priesthood and Young Men will plan activities leaders are encouraged to become to help young men adequately trained and familiar with complete the goals the requirements for Scouting leading to their awards as well as the Duty to God Duty to God Award. Award so both programs can be prayerfully applied in meeting the needs of the youth. These two programs also provide ideal opportunities for parents (whether members of the Church or not) to become involved in their sons’ activities.

As Dan’s parents learn about the program, they will know how they can help and support him in accom- plishing its requirements. What a great thing it would be for Dan’s father to review Dan’s progress toward his deacon certificate in father’s interviews with his son. During these interviews it might be helpful for Dan’s father to ask: How are these goals helping prepare you for your mis- sion? How do they help prepare you for the temple? Tell me how your testimony has grown as you have read the Book of Mormon. How do you think your efforts in accomplishing your Duty to God goals

36 then to see how the quorum can help. The quorum presiden- TO HOME TEACHERS cies and advisers will also plan Mutual activities to help him Sometimes a young man of complete the goals leading to his Duty to God Award. The Aaronic Priesthood age is the only bishopric can also use their regularly scheduled interviews to member of the Church in his family. review Dan’s progress. They might even have an adult in the In such a case or in single-parent ward or branch, possibly the secretary to the Young Men pres- families, home teachers can help idency, help track each young man’s progress in the program. support a young man in his priest- hood duties and in accomplishing

Certificates and Advancement the requirements for the Duty to When Dan has accomplished all the requirements for the God Award. deacon certificate, he will have an interview with the bishop to review his progress and sign the “Completion of Duty to that the requirements listed in the guidebooks may be God” page at the end of his deacon’s booklet. Dan can then modified according to the individual circumstances, inter- receive his deacon Duty to God certificate. ests, and needs of the young man—with the approval of Shortly before Dan becomes a teacher parents and Aaronic Priesthood leaders. and then again when he is ready to become a priest, he may receive a similar A Window of Opportunity visit from his quorum leaders to receive With the challenges that are bombarding young men his teacher (and then priest) Duty to today—Satan’s attempts to weaken them and lead them God guidebook. When he has received astray—there has never been a greater need for the bless- his deacon, teacher, and priest certifi- ings that come through achieving the Duty to God Award. cates, he is eligible to receive his Duty A young man who is dedicated to reading the scriptures to God medallion. And though that, in daily, memorizing the Articles of Faith, and accomplishing itself, is a wonderful accomplishment, the other requirements will not only be more focused on the most important result of Dan’s that which is good and right and true, but he will be more efforts will be the personal growth prepared to shun evil. he has experienced in earning the When I was a teenager in Mutual, we learned a scripture award—personal growth that will that was our theme for the year: “For behold, this life is the help him be better prepared to time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day receive the ordinances of the of this life is the day for men to perform their labors” temple, to serve a full-time mission, (Alma 34:32). and to be a faithful husband and The window of opportunity with our young men is not father. open for very long and passes so swiftly. Today, as the If you are a parent of a young scripture teaches, is the day to perform our labors. The man in the Aaronic Priesthood, First Presidency has challenged the young men in the I encourage you to carefully Church: “You live in a day of great challenges and opportu- study the appropriate Fulfilling nities. You have been called to make a difference in the Our Duty to God guidebook, world. As a son of God, with the power of the Aaronic as well as the Guidebook for Priesthood, you can be a wonderful force for good.”2 Parents and Leaders of Youth. May God bless each parent and leader of young men in Discuss the requirements and the Aaronic Priesthood to begin today to understand the purposes of the program with Duty to God program and to help our young men achieve your son, and help him set the objectives of this program. ■ NOTES appropriate goals that will 1. Aaronic Priesthood: Fulfilling Our Duty to God (2001), 5. challenge him. You will note 2. Fulfilling Our Duty to God, 4.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 37 Women of the Old Testament

The Formation of Eve, by Gustave Doré Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles . . . Isaac. And the thing was very grievous (above background). The name Eve in said: “Informed by revelation, we celebrate in Abraham’s sight because of his son. Hebrew means “life.” She was the first Eve’s act and honor her wisdom and And God said unto Abraham, . . . hearken woman and the mother of all living. “And courage. . . . Our first parents understood unto [Sarah’s] voice: for in Isaac shall I, the Lord God, caused a deep sleep to the necessity of the Fall.”1 thy seed be called. And also for the son of fall upon Adam; . . . and I took one of the bondwoman will I make a nation, his ribs . . . [and] made I a woman. . . . Hagar and Ishmael Expelled, by George because he is thy seed. And Abraham Soper (lower right). Hagar in Hebrew And Adam said: This I know now is rose up early in the morning, and took means “flight.” She was an Egyptian and bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh; bread, and a bottle of water, and gave Sarah’s handmaiden, whom barren Sarah she shall be called Woman, because she it unto Hagar . . . and the child, and asked Abraham to take as his wife that he was taken out of man” (Moses 3:21–23). sent her away: and she departed” might have children. When Hagar’s son, (Genesis 21:10–14). Leaving the Garden, by Joseph Brickey Ishmael, mocked Isaac, Sarah asked NOTE (above inset). Of Eve’s use of her agency to Abraham to cast them out, “for the son 1. “The Great Plan of Happiness,” Ensign, partake of the forbidden fruit, Elder Dallin H. of this bondwoman shall not be heir with Nov. 1993, 73. She Shall BeCalled Woman She Shall BeCalled Woman Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord? by Elspeth Young (left). Sarah in Hebrew means “princess.” She was of royal lineage, the wife of the prophet Abraham and the mother of Isaac. Abraham and Sarah, his barren wife, were in their old age when the Lord spoke to Abraham saying, “And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations” (Genesis 17:16). They named the promised heir Isaac. Isaac’s son Jacob became known as Israel, and his descendants became the twelve tribes of Israel. Through the house of Israel, the covenants and promises made to Adam and Eve were restored.

Queen Esther, by Roger W. Otis (right). Esther in Hebrew means “star.” She was the Jewish queen to Ahasuerus. Esther pleased the king and he chose her as his queen, but he did not know she was Jewish. When a decree went out to kill all the Jews in the kingdom, Queen Esther was afraid to approach the king. Her cousin Mordecai counseled her, “Who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). After fasting and praying for three days, she put on her royal apparel and arranged a banquet for the king. She said to him, “If I have found favour in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request” (Esther 7:3). The king agreed, and thus the entire Jewish nation was saved.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 39 Puah and Shiphrah Defy Pharaoh, by Sallie Clinton Poet (top). The Protector (Shiphrah), by Elspeth Young (above).Puah and Shiphrah were two Hebrew midwives during the Israelites’ captivity by the Egyptians. The name Puah in Hebrew means “splendid,” and the name Shiphrah means “brightness.” These two faithful midwives secretly refused to carry out the pharaoh’s edict to slay all Hebrew males at birth. Proverbs 14:26 teaches that Waiting for the Promise, by Elspeth Young. that promise as Jericho is destroyed. “the fear of the Lord is strong Rahab in Hebrew means “spacious.” Rahab’s faith is discussed by Paul (see confidence: and his children She was a harlot in Jericho. She hid the Hebrews 11:31), and her good works by shall have a place of refuge.” Hebrew spies in her home and “let them James (see James 2:25). The spies made Puah and Shiphrah defied the down by a cord through the window: good on their word: she and her family pharaoh because they feared for her house was upon the town wall.” were the only survivors of the battle of God more than man. These They in turn promised to save her and Jericho. women were rewarded with all of her family from the destruction descendants, referred to of Jericho (see Joshua 2:12–21). In the in the scriptures as “houses” painting, Rahab awaits the fulfillment of (see Exodus 1:21). But Ruth Clave unto Her, by Brian to Bethlehem, she told her daughters-in- Kershisnik (below). Naomi, her law to return to their families. Orpah husband, and their two sons went to obeyed Naomi’s wishes. Ruth, however, Moab because of a famine in Bethlehem. displayed loyalty and selfless concern Naomi’s husband died there, and when she said to her mother-in-law, eventually her sons married Moabite “Intreat me not to leave thee, or to women—Ruth, who converted to the return from following after thee: for Israelite way of life, and Orpah. Within 10 whither thou goest, I will go; and . . . years of their marriages, both of Naomi’s thy people shall be my people, and thy sons died. As Naomi was leaving to return God my God” (Ruth 1:16).

Ruth Pledges Loyalty to Naomi, by Robert T. Barrett. Ruth in Hebrew means “friend.” She was the Moabite ancestress of King David and of Jesus Christ. Naomi in Hebrew means “pleasant.” She was Ruth’s mother-in-law.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 41 Rebekah at the Well, by Michael Deas. her twins, Esau and Jacob, struggled A Lamp unto My Feet, by Elspeth Young. Rebekah in Hebrew means “ensnarer.” within her womb, she inquired of the Abigail in Hebrew means “father of joy.” She She was the wife of Isaac and the mother Lord. “And the Lord said unto her, Two was the wife of Nabal and later of King David. of Esau and Jacob. Rebekah served water nations are in thy womb, and two She “was a woman of good understanding, to Abraham’s servant Eliezer at the well manner of people shall be separated and of a beautiful countenance.” She and later accepted his offer to go to the from thy bowels; and the one people gathered foodstuffs to take to King David’s land of Canaan to marry Abraham’s shall be stronger than the other people; army after her husband refused to help them. son Isaac. and the elder shall serve the younger” “Abigail made haste, and took two hundred (Genesis 25:23). This prophecy came to loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five Rebekah, by Del Parson (top right). After pass symbolically when the adult Esau sheep ready dressed, and five measures the long journey, Rebekah met Isaac. sold his birthright to his younger brother, of parched corn, and an hundred clusters When she saw him, Rebekah put on a veil Jacob, for “bread and pottage of lentiles” of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs. as a sign of her virtue, modesty, respect, (see Genesis 25:29–34). . . . But she told not her husband Nabal” and readiness for a covenant marriage. (1 Samuel 25:3, 18–19). Her act of courage (See Genesis 24:45–65.) Later, when saved the lives of her whole household. Elijah Raises the Widow of Zarephath’s Son from Death, by Robert T. Barrett. Later when the widow’s son fell sick, “that there was no breath left in him,” Elijah “cried unto the Lord and said, . . . let this child’s soul come into him again.” And the Lord “revived” the child, and Elijah took him “out of the chamber into the house, and delivered him unto his mother: and Elijah said, See, thy son liveth” (1 Kings 17:17, 21–23).

Charity Never Faileth, by Elspeth Young. The not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, widow of Zarephath’s name is not known. according to the word of the Lord, which She fed the prophet Elijah the last morsel of he spake by Elijah” (1 Kings 17:15–16). her food before feeding her son and herself. Because of her faith, the Lord fed her, her household, and Elijah for many days. “And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: . . . and the barrel of meal wasted ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 43 Commitment TO GOD BY PRESIDENT HOWARD W. HUNTER us today regarding the importance placed by (1907–95) the Lord on keeping commitments and on Fourteenth President of the Church being committed to following the command- Howard W. Hunter was born in Boise, Idaho, on November 14, 1907. He was ordained an Apostle ments and direction He has given. on October 15, 1959, and was ordained and set apart as President of the Church on June 5, 1994. Joshua is remembered as the one who, He passed away on March 3, 1995. This address was given in general conference in October 1982. on the death of Moses, took command and completed the task of giving leadership to eading and studying the scriptures the tribes of Israel. Perhaps to comfort make us conscious of the many condi- Joshua—who now had the responsibility for R tional promises made by the Lord to the children of Israel, who didn’t yet have a We should decide encourage obedience and righteous living. homeland—and perhaps to comfort that in the light of the Israelite history is filled with examples of large body of people who had just lost their morning how we covenants, which constitute one of the central leader of more than 40 years, the Lord spoke will act when the themes of the Old Testament—the promises to Joshua and said: darkness of night of God made in exchange for the commit- “As I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: and the storms of ments of the prophets and the people. I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. temptation arrive. The Lord made a covenant with Noah, and “Be strong and of a good courage: for unto the rainbow became the token this people shalt thou divide of that eternal covenant with for an inheritance the land, all mankind (see Genesis 9:13). which I sware unto their fathers The covenant made with to give them” (Joshua 1:5–6). Abraham and his seed was The Lord then continues

sealed by the ceremony of cir- to speak to Joshua by way of DORÉ GUSTAVE BY cumcision as a sacrament (see commandment: “Only be Genesis 17:10–11). And the thou strong and very coura-

token or sign of the great geous, that thou mayest THOMAS; DARRELL BY covenant with all Israel made observe to do according to all at Sinai was the Sabbath (see the law, which Moses my ser- Exodus 31:12–17). vant commanded thee: turn

Several experiences in the Moses ordains Joshua to lead THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL CROSSING JORDAN, not from it to the right hand JOSHUA, MOSES ORDAINING LEFT: LEFT: life of Joshua are instructive to the Israelites. or to the left, that thou RIGHT:

44 mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest” (Joshua 1:7). When the feet of the priests bearing the ark of the covenant Then speaking about the law given to Moses, the Lord touched the water of Jordan, it dried up, “and all the adds: “Observe to do according to all that is written Israelites passed over on dry ground.” therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Joshua 1:8). that his obedience would bring success, and although he Finally, we have this last reiteration by the Lord of what did not know exactly how he would succeed, he now had He had previously said, to comfort and to remind Joshua of confidence in the result. the relationship between the blessings of heaven and obedi- The record tells us that the tribes of Israel moved to the ence to divine law: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong Jordan river and encamped for three days, preparing to and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dis- cross at a point near the city of Jericho. At that time Joshua mayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever gave his people this interesting counsel. He said, “Sanctify thou goest” (Joshua 1:9). yourselves: for to morrow the Lord will do wonders among Joshua would need courage for what he had to do. He you” (Joshua 3:5). would need the Lord’s help at every step. Here is a commit- He knew the victory that would surely come would ment of the Lord to provide that help. With faith in the depend upon their willingness to do the will of the Lord. Lord, Joshua could now go forward, knowing that the Lord Then the Lord said unto Joshua, “This day will I begin would direct him in the way he should go. Joshua knew to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they may know

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 45 Israel’s success—or at least so it seemed. Not knowing the means, but assured as to the end, Joshua carried out the instruc- tions he had been given by a messenger of the Lord. His commitment was to com- plete obedience. His concern was to do precisely as he was instructed, that the promise of the Lord would be fulfilled. The instructions no doubt seemed strange, but his faith in the outcome urged him on. The result, of course, was another in a long series of miracles experi- enced by the Israelites as they were led over many years by Moses, by Joshua, and by many other prophets who were com- mitted to follow the commandments and the directives of the Lord. As Joshua and his people approached Jericho, the instructions of the Lord were followed precisely, and according to the scriptural account, “the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city” (Joshua 6:20). The record states that after Israel had rested from the wars with their enemies, Joshua, who was now very old, called all Israel together. In his farewell address he Joshua and his people followed the Lord’s instructions reminded them they had been victorious because God had precisely, and the walls of Jericho “fell down flat, . . . fought for them, but if they now ceased to serve the Lord and they took the city.” and keep his law they would be destroyed. He recalled how the Lord God of Israel had led Abraham throughout Canaan that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee” (Joshua 3:7). and had “multiplied his seed” (Joshua 24:3). He reminded Joshua now knew that the miracles of the Lord would them of how Jacob and his children had gone down into BY DEL PARSON BY continue, just as when Moses had been the leader of Israel. Egypt. He told of how the Lord had been with Moses and And so it was that when the feet of the priests bearing the Aaron and had brought their fathers out of Egypt; how, in all ark of the covenant before the people touched the water of the battles and conquests, they had prevailed, adding this BY FRANK ADAMS, COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF CHURCH HISTORY AND ART; COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM CHURCH HISTORY FRANK ADAMS, BY of the Jordan, it dried up, “and all the Israelites passed significant statement: “But not with thy sword, nor with thy over on dry ground” (Joshua 3:17). bow” (Joshua 24:12). They had been led by the Lord to vic- Soon after, when Joshua was directed to destroy the city tory. The battles had not been won by swords and bows. He

of Jericho that lay before them, the great walls of the city BE SACRIFICED, ISAAC TO ABRAHAM TAKING then admonished them: “Fear the Lord, and serve him in OF JERICHO, THE TAKING

stood as an imposing and physically impossible barrier to sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your LEFT: RIGHT:

46 HELPS FOR HOME EVENING Most Ensign articles can be used for family fathers served on the other side of home evening discussions, personal reflection, early in the morning . . . and took the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye or teaching the gospel in a variety of settings. . . . Isaac his son . . . and went the Lord” (Joshua 24:14). Divide the family into groups. Using the arti- unto the place of which God had cle, scriptures, and the Bible Dictionary, see This great military and spiritual told him” (Genesis 22:3). Years which group can find the most facts about leader then urged a commitment, Joshua. Discuss how Joshua was obedient. later, when Rebekah was asked if and made one himself and for his Then invite family members to share instances she would go with the servant of family: “Choose you this day whom when they were obedient to the Lord. Conclude Abraham to become Isaac’s wife, ye will serve; . . . but as for me and with the last two paragraphs of the article, and and no doubt knowing that the commit as a family to continually serve the Lord. my house, we will serve the Lord” servant’s mission had the blessing (Joshua 24:15). of the Lord, she simply said, “I Here was a great statement of full will go” (Genesis 24:58). commitment of a man to God; of a A generation after that, when prophet to the desires of the Lord; Jacob was instructed to return to of Joshua the man to his God, who the land of Canaan, which meant had many times previously blessed leaving all for which he had worked his obedience. He was telling the many years, he called Rachel and Israelites that regardless of how they Leah into the field where his flock decided, he would do what he knew was and explained what the Lord was right. He was saying that his had said. The reply of Rachel was decision to serve the Lord was inde- simple and straightforward and pendent of whatever they decided, indicative of her commitment: that their actions would not affect “Whatsoever God hath said unto his, that his commitment to do the thee, do” (Genesis 31:16). Lord’s will would not be altered by We have, then, examples from anything they or anyone else would How pleased the Lord must have been when the scriptures of how we should do. Joshua was firmly in control of Abraham, after receiving direction to sacrifice consider and evaluate the com- his actions and had his eyes fixed his son Isaac, did as he was instructed, without mandments of the Lord. If we on the commandments of the Lord. question and without wavering. choose to react like Joshua and He was committed to obedience. Abraham and Rebekah and Rachel, Surely the Lord loves, more than anything else, an unwa- our response will be simply to go and do the thing that the vering determination to obey His counsel. Surely the expe- Lord has commanded. riences of the great prophets of the Old Testament have There is good reason to make our decision now to been recorded to help us understand the importance of serve the Lord. When the complications and temptations choosing the path of strict obedience. How pleased the of life are somewhat removed and when we have the time Lord must have been when Abraham, after receiving direc- and more of an inclination to take an eternal perspective, tion to sacrifice his son Isaac, did as he was instructed, we can more clearly evaluate what will bring us the great- without question and without wavering. The record states est happiness in life. We should decide in the light of that God said unto Abraham: “Take now thy son, thine only morning how we will act when the darkness of night and son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of the storms of temptation arrive. Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one I pray that we will have the strength to decide now to of the mountains which I will tell thee of” (Genesis 22:2). do what we ought to do. I pray that we will decide now to The next verse simply states: “And Abraham rose up serve the Lord. ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 47 NICARAGUA Hungering for the“Beautiful Fruit”

By sharing the “beautiful fruit” of to get a drink. When at last they find the gospel, Nicaraguan members the way to quench their thirst, they and missionaries are helping loved drink freely and gratefully of the water that the gospel of Jesus Christ has to ones and friends find peace. offer. Looking at the overall picture BY DON L. SEARLE of what is happening in Nicaragua, Church Magazines Elder Spencer V. Jones of the Seventy, believe Nicaragua’s moment President of the Central America has come,” says Larry Zúniga Area, offers three reasons for the Church’s growth I of the San Miguel Ward, Masaya there. First, Nicaraguans seem to feel a “spiritual Nicaragua Stake. He is speaking hunger.” After a long period of conflict in their country, of growth in the Church that “people are looking for peace in their lives, and the increased the number of stakes gospel is providing that peace.” Second, “there has also in his country from two to seven been a succession of strong mission presidents who in just one year. have developed a good working relationship with the If Brother Zúniga is right, then the arrival local leaders and members. Basically, the missionaries of this happy moment in the history of the Church in don’t have to knock on doors very often. They have Nicaragua is the result of at least two factors: the influence tremendously large teaching pools because of this relation- of the Holy Ghost on people who are seeking truth and ship.” Third, as a result, “the missionaries have developed the influence of Preach My Gospel in helping members a faith that they have the capacity to baptize. They’re not share the gospel. Priesthood leaders will tell you they afraid to challenge investigators to prepare for baptism. see both of these factors at work in people’s lives. They have that confidence and faith in the Lord.” Bishop Luís Castrillo of the Ciudad Sandino Ward, Managua Nicaragua Stake, explains that many people in Committed to Serve Nicaragua are seeking answers to life’s questions and find- Brother Zúniga typifies the commitment to missionary ing those answers in the teachings of The Church of Jesus work found among Latter-day Saints. “There are many Christ of Latter-day Saints. He compares their condition to members willing to help here,” he says. A returned mis-

being very thirsty on a hot day and unable to find a place sionary himself, he goes out to work with the full-time CHILD THOMAS S. CHRISTINA SMITH; MAP BY DON L. SEARLE; BY BY BACKGROUND PHOTOGRAPHS

48 THE CHURCH Opposite page: Jeannethe Campos de Espinoza, former IN NICARAGUA Managua stake Relief Society president; Bishop Luís Castrillo, National population: Ciudad Sandino Ward, Managua stake. Below: Victor approximately 5,500,000 Vallecillo and his son, Victor. Right: Cindy Orozco teaches a Young Women class in Managua’s Miraflores Ward. Bottom Managua area: right: Managua stake center. approximately 1,400,000 Members in Nicaragua: more than 52,000

Stakes: 7

Districts: 5

Wards: 44

Branches: 41

missionaries as often as he can. Almost all of Nevertheless, through his friends have been willing to at least listen the help of other mem- to the gospel. bers and also of relatives, From the time he was a boy, Larry Zúniga including some who are not wanted to serve a full-time mission. His father, members of the Church, he was blessed with a carpenter, made him a small box for a bank, the resources he needed to serve a full-time and Larry began to save money for his mis- mission. Brother Zúniga’s commitment to sion. But when he was 18, his mother became missionary work helped bring five of his seriously ill. He had to give up his mission sav- good friends into the Church, and two of ings and sell his bicycle to help pay for her them have also served missions. He continues treatment, but he sacrificed gladly for her. to work with other friends.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 49 to share the gospel. He leads by example, also inviting friends and acquaintances to family home evenings in his own home to introduce them to the gospel. “I have two roles in missionary Above: Melchizedek Priesthood holders of the work,” he says, “one to supervise and Miraflores Ward meet on the patio of a rented facility one to motivate members to work at while their meetinghouse is remodeled. Top right: the level of the missionaries.” Paula Merlo, Chinandega. Right: Sergio Saenz, Because of the meaning of his sur- Managua. name (maravilla means “marvel” in Spanish), friends joke that he is a marvel in missionary Paula Merlo of the Acome Ward, Chinandega Nicaragua work. A man of good humor, President Maravilla laughs Stake, is another member who never passes up an opportu- with the joke, but he is serious about missionary work. He nity for missionary work. If the missionaries ask members meets regularly with missionary zone leaders to coordinate to help them find people to teach, she simply does it. efforts in the stake. He strongly encourages bishops to Visitors to her home are likely to find a missionary meeting actively direct missionary work in their wards through ward in progress. On one Saturday, for example, she arranged for council meetings and to follow up on assignments. Those missionaries to teach a total of 11 investigators in separate councils are “the heart of missionary work in the ward,” the group meetings in her home. president says. When the meetings are not held, the work Sister Merlo came into the Church 14 years ago after slows down. “We have learned this in practice.” being introduced to the gospel by a daughter who had The Chinandega stake averages 45 baptisms per month. been baptized. She has a daughter in Panama and a son in Honduras and tries to share the gospel wherever she Partners in Teaching travels in Central America. Even she is not sure how many “Everything starts with the planning meeting we have people she has helped bring into the Church. If people with members,” commented Elder William J. Reano of decline her invitation to hear the missionaries, she invites Waverly, Tennessee, USA, a missionary in the Nicaragua them to family home evening in her home so they can feel Managua Mission. Elder Reano, who has since finished his something of the spirit of the gospel. mission, and his companion met weekly with members in What motivates her in missionary work? “First, it is their area of Managua. Members supplied new missionary a commandment the Lord has given us. And then, after referrals or directed the missionaries to someone who going to the temple, I realized that if we’re not doing could. “We formed a chain of referrals,” Elder Reano said. anything for our dead or for the living, we’re not doing “I’ve learned that the basis of success in missionary work anything for the Lord.” is this planning.” BE COPIED NOT MAY GREG K. BY OLSEN, Sister Merlo’s stake president, Ernesto Maravilla, holds His companion, Elder Rodrigo León of Costa Rica, her up as an example of what he wishes every member attributes their success in teaching both to the experi- would do. President Maravilla works constantly with mem- ence of his companion and to Preach My Gospel, the bers and missionaries to help them remember that they approach to teaching that missionaries are now using.

have both the commandment and the precious opportunity “That approach is 100 percent effective when it is used JOHN THE BAPTIST BAPTIZING JESUS,

50 Far left: The missionary guide, Preach My Gospel. Above: Elders Rodrigo correctly,” Elder León says. other congratulations and León and William J. Success breeds success, speak of new opportunities. Reano. Above left: Elder Reano adds; mem- Elders Jonathan bers who see regular bap- Testimonies at Work Estrada and Joshua tisms want their friends to The enthusiasm of the Kasteler. Below: Silvia have the opportunity to missionaries is infectious. Zamuria Vanegas, learn about the gospel too. Victor Vallecillo is a co- Granada. Elder León notes that many worker of Pedro Aviles, members bring investiga- president of the Managua tors to Church meetings each week. Nicaragua Stake. When Victor was seeking Elder Joshua Kasteler of Murray, Utah, religious truth, President Aviles gave says missionaries find it is important to help him a Book of Mormon. Brother members know they are necessary to mis- Vallecillo feels so joyful about sionary work. He and his companion, Elder the gospel that since his Jonathan Estrada of Santa Ana, El Salvador, baptism in November 2004 try to help leaders and members know that he has adopted the habit of the missionaries care about what is happen- inviting friends to hear the ing in the ward. They work with the ward gospel, and he often goes after a baptism to help the new members out with missionaries to become assimilated and receive callings. teach. His wife and two This is important for both the new members children have the spirit and the ward, Elder Estrada points out, of missionary work too. because in serving, people are nourished One night, Brother Vallecillo by the word of God. recalls, his teenage son was The enthusiasm and love of the missionar- studying a map of Nicaragua, ies for the people they teach comes through looking at the northern strongly at a mission-wide meeting in Managua part of the country with their president, Ricardo Valladares. There where Brother is a spirit of gladness among the missionaries Vallecillo grew up. as they receive instruction and hear of suc- “Papa,” his son said, cesses in the work. When transfers are pointing to places on announced, no one says, “Oh, Elder, too bad the map, “the gospel you are going to that place.” They offer each is not here, and it is

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 51 not here, and it is not here.” How soon, he teach them again the simple doctrines they learned from wondered, would missionaries be able to go to the missionaries—the pure doctrines of Christ. When they those places so that others could share in the bless- remember these, he says, they will want the promised ings of the gospel? blessings. Efforts to retain them are efforts to bless them. Silvia Zamuria Vanegas of the Granada Branch, Granada Jeannethe Campos de Espinoza, former president of Nicaragua District, recalls, “When I was baptized, I made a the Relief Society in the Managua stake, admires the cre- promise to the Lord that one day I would teach other peo- ativity of one visiting teacher who helped activate a woman ple because what I had found brought me so much joy.” she visited. The visiting teacher asked the sister to prepare In May 2005, four years after her baptism, she left to serve a message from the Book of Mormon to share with her vis- a mission in Guatemala. But she had been sharing the iting teachers; this helped the woman discover what she gospel with friends and working with the sister missionar- was missing spiritually. The same approach has been used ies long before her call. Sister Zamuria quotes a favorite to activate others as well. Sometimes Relief Society leaders saying that calls on those who can light a candle to share also ask to hold small group meetings in the homes of less- the light with people around them. active members to remind them of gospel blessings. Raúl Díaz Hernández of El Coyolar Branch, Leon Sister Espinoza, baptized in 2001, has a strong desire to Nicaragua District, grew up in the Church and has been share the gospel with others “so they can taste this beauti- preparing to serve a mission since his childhood. He has ful fruit.” It gives her pain, she says, to see people wander- worked with the missionaries and begun to study Preach ing in paths that lead them away from happiness. My Gospel. It is a privilege to share his testimony with Sharing the gospel so others can taste the “beautiful fruit” anyone, he says, but he has a more personal reason for seems to be a theme in most Church meetings in Nicaragua. helping the missionaries teach his brother-in-law. He President Aviles of the Managua stake was one of the would like his sister to be able to enjoy the blessings first stake presidents in the country, and he has been an of the temple with her family. eyewitness to the Church’s growth over the past several years. His is a country burdened by great poverty, a coun- The Influence of Members try where the pull of old traditions and temptations is José Contreras, president of the Masaya Nicaragua very strong. But it is a country where Church facilities are Stake, estimates that more than three-quarters of convert often unable to keep up with growth because of mission- baptisms in his stake come about through the assistance ary work and because retention has improved. President of members who want to share the joy they found in the Aviles knows how the Holy Ghost and loving members gospel. But even with recent growth, President Contreras can touch people’s lives. says, “we need to do more to take the missionaries out to Speaking at a ward conference in Managua, he takes up people we may not have thought of yet.” The president the theme of reaching out to others so they may taste that and his counselors are not only helping members develop sweet fruit of the gospel. With faith, he says, members can their own ability to share the gospel, but they are also overcome the challenges the adversary puts in our paths. accompanying some of them as they go out with the “We ought to move forward so that we can be perfected.” missionaries to teach. “We need to be strengthened in righteousness,” he President Contreras keeps track of the rate of activity adds. “We want to be blessed for doing good.” Let the for members in the stake, and he is concerned about those Saints be drawn together in unity, he pleads; let unity who are not enjoying the blessings of the gospel right now. be our strength. This is the way for the spiritual growth How to reach those members? He favors a basic approach: in Nicaragua to continue. ■

52 VISITING TEACHING MESSAGE

come into the lives of . . . women as they have mingled together? . . . Serving and Supporting “Who . . . can fathom the uncount- Each Sister able acts of charity that have been per- formed, the food that has been put on barren tables, the faith that has been Prayerfully select and Bonnie D. Parkin, Relief Society nurtured in desperate hours of illness, read from this message general president: “Every time we the wounds that have been bound up, the scriptures and watch over one another, godlike qual- the pains that have been ameliorated teachings that meet the ities of love, patience, kindness, gen- by loving hands and quiet and reassur- needs of the sisters you visit. Share erosity, and spiritual commitment fill ing words, the comfort that has been your experiences and testimony. the souls of those we visit and enlarge extended in times of death and conse- Invite those you teach to do the same. our souls as well. In the process, we quent loneliness? honor our covenants. I see legions of “Lucy Mack Smith, mother of the Blessings of Belonging to Relief faithful sisters around the world going Prophet, in speaking to the sisters in Society: Relief Society helps sisters forward on the Lord’s errands, per- Nauvoo, said, ‘We must cherish one feel needed, included, valued, and forming simple yet significant service” another, watch over one another, com- loved regardless of their personal cir- (“Visiting Teaching: The Heart and fort one another and gain instruction cumstances. Sisters in Relief Society Soul of Relief Society” [address given that we may all sit down in heaven support each other as they share their at the fall 2003 open house]). together.’ . . . Women of the Church faith, friendship, and love. Kathleen H. Hughes, first counselor have not had to wait to sit together in in the Relief Society general presi- heaven to taste the sweet fruit of the How Can Relief Society Help Us Feel dency: “We sometimes hear women kind of activities she described. They Valued and Loved? say that they don’t feel the love of have experienced much of heaven on Mosiah 18:21: “He commanded the Lord. But perhaps they would feel earth as in life they have cherished one them that . . . they should look forward more of His love if they looked for His another, comforted one another, and with one eye, . . . having their hearts hand in the actions of those who care instructed one another” (“Ambitious

ILLUSTRATED BY SHANNON CHRISTENSEN BY ILLUSTRATED knit together in unity and in love one for them. It may be a member of their to Do Good,” Ensign, Mar. 1992, 4–5). towards another.” branch or ward, a neighbor, or even a Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the stranger who blesses them and mani- Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “The fests Christ’s love” (“What Greater Church is not a place where perfect Goodness Can We Know: Christlike people gather to say perfect things, or Friends,” Liahona and Ensign, May have perfect thoughts, or have perfect 2005, 75). feelings. The Church is a place where imperfect people gather to provide How Do We Serve and Support One encouragement, support, and service Another through Relief Society? to each other. . . . We are here with the 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Wherefore same purpose: to learn to love Him comfort yourselves together, and with all our heart, soul, mind, and edify one another.” strength, and to love our neighbor as President Gordon B. Hinckley: ourselves” (“The Virtue of Kindness,” “Who can measure the joy that has Liahona and Ensign, May 2005, 28). ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 53 THE RELIEF SOCIETY A Symbol of Service BUILDING and Sacrifice

PAST OFFICES OF THE RELIEF SOCIETY

1847–71: General Relief Society 1872 1872–1910: The home on leaders in Salt Lake City worked 243 South State (left) of out of makeshift quarters. From Emmeline B. Wells—editor 1868 to 1921, however, local of the Woman’s Exponent Relief Society units had separate, (the longest running serviceable buildings near their women’s newspaper west meetinghouses, such as this one of the Mississippi)—did double (left) built for the 19th Ward duty as the office of the news- Relief Society and located on paper and the general Relief Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City. Society for more than 30 years. These small buildings were an important part of life in many towns and communities. 54 1847 BY HEIDI S. SWINTON, Relief Society General Board, side, trusting in one another as we fulfill our commitment AND LARENE GAUNT, Church Magazines to the Lord.” ifty years ago, on October 3, 1956, President David O. Sister Tanner enjoys the gracious boardroom where McKay dedicated the Relief Society Building. It still portraits of the previous general presidents of all three F stands prominently in the shadow of the Salt Lake auxiliaries (including her mother, former Relief Society Temple and is adorned with bronze sheaves of wheat, president Barbara W. Winder) hang on the wall. “I feel like emblematic of the Relief Society’s commitment to caring they care about what is happening here. We feel honored for the poor. President McKay offered the dedicatory to work within walls that speak of the heritage of women prayer from the new structure as the sisters gathered in who have been so valiant.” the Tabernacle and Assembly Hall on nearby Temple For Latter-day Saint women, this building is more than Square to hear his prophetic words. an office building; it is a place where women can gather, “As we dedicate this edifice,” he said, “we also dedicate learn from educational displays, and hear the testimonies our lives to Thy service and pray for divine assistance in all of auxiliary leaders. General Relief Society president our efforts to serve Thee by serving Thy children.”1 Belle S. Spafford said at the building’s dedication that His prayer has been answered time and again through it “represents the spirit and character of Latter-day Saint the work of auxiliary leaders and officers who now occupy womanhood in its strength, its beauty, and its useful- the building. Cheryl Lant, Primary general president, ness.”2 It stands today, as it did when it was dedicated, affirms his words when she says, “We know the work is as an example of service and sacrifice. not about us. We are here to bless the women of the Church, to bless the children, and to move the kingdom Donating in the Spirit of Love forward.” In the years before the First Presidency announced that Indeed, when the three auxiliary general presidents— ward and stake budgets would pay for all activities on the Bonnie D. Parkin, Relief Society; Susan Tanner, Young local level, each auxiliary had its own budget and raised Women; and Cheryl Lant, Primary—describe working in its own funds. Relief Society sisters paid yearly dues, the Relief Society Building, they use words like love, heart, and local Relief Society units held annual bazaars selling and spirit. Clearly this building is much more to them than homemade items. Similar activities took place in the the offices, meeting rooms, and reception halls. Young Women Mutual Improvement Association and in “A wonderful spirit of love and cooperation abounds the Primary. Such was the situation in October 1947 when

HISTORICAL PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE ARCHIVES OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS COURTESY OF THE ARCHIVES CHURCH JESUS CHRIST LATTER-DAY PHOTOGRAPHS HISTORICAL here,” says Sister Parkin. “We are blessed to work side by Relief Society general president Belle S. Spafford asked all

1910 1910–56: The Relief Society 1947: With the request for 1910 general officers moved in donations from Relief 1910 into the second floor Society sisters, the Relief of the Bishop’s Building, Society general presidency— located directly east of the (from left) Belle S. Spafford, Salt Lake Temple. They president; Marianne C. donated the money they Sharp, first counselor; and had raised 10 years earlier Velma N. Simonsen, second in conjunction with the counselor—also revealed an Young Ladies Mutual architect’s rendering of the Improvement Association proposed Relief Society and the Primary toward Building. the building of the Bishop’s Building. 1947 ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 55 SACRIFICING TO DONATE More than 123,000 women made a $5 donation to the Relief Society Building. The stories of sacrifice abound, and the name of each donor was recorded. Copies of the books con- taining these names are located on the first floor of the Relief Society Building. A sampling of Millie Shields (left) and her daughter Agnes Kunz Dansie, grandmother of Mary Mitton Kennedy sewed those who donated are Wanda Naylor (right) sold crocheted and Bonnie Parkin, wrote a newspaper a beautiful child’s dress. pictured at right. embroidered pillowcases for 5¢ to 15¢ each. column and sold eggs.

Relief Society sisters to donate the name of each woman $5 and each stake Relief in her family and each Society to donate one-half granddaughter.” of their funds for one year to Mary Mitton Kennedy, the building of the proposed now 99 years old, says, Relief Society Building. “We were having somewhat President Gordon B. of a struggle to make ends Hinckley has said: “I was meet, so I decided to do pleased to see that my wife something to earn that paid her $5. That represented, money. I had a sister with as we’ve calculated it, $50 in five daughters, and I loved EN C. ANDERSEN today’s money. . . . To think to sew for them. It was that over 100,000 women natural that I decided to contributed $5 was a most make a beautiful little dress Dolores Torres (front row, second from left) invited President Belle significant and wonderful Spafford (front row, second from right) and other general, stake, and and sell it. This paid my 3 4 thing in my judgment.” ward Relief Society leaders to her home for a luncheon in their honor. donation to the fund.” Sister Parkin’s grandmother, Agnes Kunz Dansie, wrote a column for the local newspaper and sold eggs from her I Will Go and Do chickens. “With that little bit of money,” says Sister Parkin, Dolores Torres served as Relief Society president “she contributed $5 to the Relief Society Building fund in in the Salt Lake Mexican Branch. At first she felt that

Left: A Meissen vase donated by sisters in the Swiss-Austrian Mission. 1948 Right: Singing Mothers perform in the Tabernacle at the annual general Relief Society conference on September 30,1948. A replica of the planned Relief Society Building is in the background. 1947 PHOTOGRAPHS OF DONORS COURTESY OF THE DONORS OR THEIR FAMILIES; PHOTOGRAPHS OF MEISSEN VASE AND RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY BY WELD AND RIBBON-CUTTING OF MEISSEN VASE CEREMONY BY PHOTOGRAPHS OF DONORS COURTESY THE OR THEIR FAMILIES; PHOTOGRAPHS 56 Thella Hunter Fagg gave extra music Ida Jacobsen Farnes saved a little Leone Layton contributed $40 in her Conrad Gertsch Jr. donated $5 in lessons and scrubbed floors. money each day from the milk name and the names of seven of her the name of his wife, Elise, who died she sold. women relatives and friends. before the request for donations.

the sisters in her ward were too poor to meet the goal. the Swiss-Austrian Mission, she found an exquisite Meissen Then she considered that this request had come from vase (page 56), 30 inches high and ornately covered with her Church leaders. She remembered the story of Nephi figures and blossoms, that once had been displayed in a when he said, “I will go and do the things which the Lord German castle. When she noticed it was dated 1830, the hath commanded” (1 Nephi 3:7). Sister Torres wrote to date of the organization of the Church, she knew she had Belle Spafford and said, “I don’t know how we can do it. located just the right gift. But the First Presidency has authorized it. If they author- Other gifts included purchased and handmade items ize it, it is right. If it is right, we can do it.” 5 The whole such as a carved table from Hawaii, dolls from Japan, lace branch rallied behind the challenge, and the Salt Lake from Belgium, oil paintings, herb-dyed tapestries, and Mexican Branch was the first branch in the Church to silver sets. They came from the Netherlands, Argentina, meet the goal. Denmark, Tonga, Africa, France, and elsewhere. Seeing these gifts, some of which are displayed in the Gifts Instead of Money Relief Society building, Sister Lant says, “It is humbling to European sisters desired to contribute also, but in the know we are building upon a great and noble past.” ■

years just after World War II, laws in many of their coun- NOTES tries prohibited sending money. Instead, women gathered 1.“Dedicatory Prayer of the Relief Society Building,” Relief Society Magazine, Dec.1956, 789. money on behalf of their mission and purchased fine art 2.“We Built as One,” Relief Society Magazine, Dec.1956,801. 3.Transcript of the DVD of the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the representations of their cultures to adorn the new Relief remodeled Relief Society Building on March 17, 2006. Society Building. For example, as Hermine Weber Cziep 4.Letter from Mary Mitton Kennedy to Colleen Hinckley, May31,2006. 5.Quoted in Belle S. Spafford, “The Spirit of the Gospel, the Soul of searched for something that would represent those in Relief Society,” Relief Society Magazine, Mar.1949, 149.

Left: President David O. McKay (left) watches Belle Spafford turn a shovelful of dirt at the groundbreaking on October 1, 1953. A year later a large copper box was placed in the cornerstone. Among the contents of the box were the names of all those who had donated to the building. Right: On March 17, 2006, 164 years after the organization of the Relief Society in Nauvoo, Illinois, President Gordon B. Hinckley and Sister Bonnie D. Parkin led the celebration at the opening of the newly remodeled Relief Society Building in Salt Lake City. 2006 1953 ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 57 ssed Your N o hristlike love continues to influ a f C en m T le o ce m mp y lif e I xa e to r e day. . You . .

NAME WITHHELD Although I was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we did not attend church and were defi- Your example of Christ- nitely not receptive to visits from Church like love continues to members. When you and your com- panion first tried to visit me, I influence my life today. made it abundantly clear, using ou may not remember me, coarse language and threats, but I will always that you should never return. Yremember you. Your short note When I was a young soon arrived in the woman, my husband and I mail. You asked for moved to a farm near yours. my forgiveness if you Eventually you were assigned to had offended me be my visiting teacher. and wrote that you would just like to be good neighbors. You included your name and phone number and told me to call if I ever needed a hand. I chucked the note into a corner with the junk mail, ignoring a small twinge of guilt. My husband and I kept to ourselves, and you did

not visit again. RICHARD HULL BY ILLUSTRATION

58 e ...... Asid

In late spring I called you. My five-month-old baby had I’ve forgotten your name, but I’ve always remembered rolled off the bed onto a hardwood floor. I was very wor- how you made me feel. Many years have passed, and I now ried because my little one wasn’t acting as she should. I marvel at the kindness you showed me. Your friendliness did not drive and had no car. I couldn’t reach my husband, exemplified the love of the Savior. I trace the beginning of and all my family and friends lived more than an hour my personal testimony to your example. away. Your note still happened to be lying on a pile of For about 10 years after I knew you, I continued to papers in the corner. avoid Church contacts. I would say or do whatever was I was blunt when I called you. “The baby needs to go necessary to discourage Church members from returning to the doctor immediately. Can you take us?” I asked. to my home. Whatever you were doing that day, you left it and took us But other influences were affecting me. We moved to the doctor, who treated the baby for a skull fracture. often and for a time lived in a very large city. An older You brushed off the sacrifice of time and resources with woman in my apartment complex befriended me. She a simple, “That’s what neighbors are for.” I never forgot was helpful, concerned, and sincere like you—like my your service. family. And like my own family, she included me in her Periodically after that, you offered me rides to town. prayers every day. Kind and helpful, you always said it was no trouble. One When I eventually wanted more in my life, I read many afternoon after a shopping trip, you asked if it would be religious books, including the Book of Mormon. I did this OK if we stopped on the way out of town to pick up some privately. No one besides God knew that I was watching and things before you took me home. You seemed hesitant as observing, reading and studying, and praying about it all. you explained that the stop would be at the church. You Eventually I asked my older neighbor her thoughts about also assured me that your errand could be done later if religion. I felt a strange delight when she told me she was a I would rather not go there. I said it would be fine. Latter-day Saint. She was very surprised to learn that I was When we arrived at the church you told me I did not too. I knew I had sensed something unique in the family I need to go in, but I followed you into the building. Despite had grown up in; it was not until I also felt and observed it distancing myself from religion, I was still part of a large, in others like you and her that I realized its value. close-knit family that was active in the Church. I often I try now to follow your examples. The love and kind- helped my mother with Relief Society functions, so I began ness you showed me are at the core of the doctrine of the to help clean up after this one, too. Church. Thank you for not hardening your heart against Although I attended some Relief Society activities me. Thank you for loving me even when I deliberately set with you after that, I never did allow you to visit me at out to offend you. Thank you for being forgiving and kind home, nor did I attend church. A year or so later we instead of seeking revenge. Thank you for your simple, moved away. selfless example of Christlike love. ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 59 ORGETTAB F OME EVE L N LY H NIN E U MI G FA S

As members worldwide testify, memories of a special family home evening can uplift us, guide us, and even stay with us for a lifetime.

ulio Cesar Merlos of the Arlington Texas Stake writes: “As I grew up, tests came to me that were as serious as “I remember when my brothers and sisters and I were the ones my parents warned me about. I tried to remem- Jgrowing up. We were new members of the Church, ber the advice my father gave us that night. Twenty-five and our family didn’t have many financial resources, but we years after hearing my father’s counsel, it still fortifies me had faith in the gospel. My father set the example for us by greatly and makes me stronger. Now my children are hear- his scripture reading. For him, family home evening was an ing the same advice from me.” opportunity to teach us what he himself was learning. “One of my father’s family home evening lessons really A Life-Changing Home Evening made an impression on me. That was the time he taught Edevanir Leopoldino of the São Paulo Brazil São Miguel us about agency. I remember the words my father spoke: ‘I Paulista Stake remembers a family home evening that want to give you a piece of advice to remember for the rest changed his life. He was 16 years old and not a member of your lives. When you are tempted to disobey the Word of the Church when he stopped at his friend Leandro’s of Wisdom or the law of chastity or any other command- house to see if Leandro wanted to attend a local dance. His ment of God, think about whom you are sinning against. Is friend instead invited Edevanir to share in his family home it God, the Church, your parents, your family, or yourself? evening. Not sure what to expect, Edevanir reluctantly I want to tell you that the one you are sinning against the agreed to take part. most is yourself.’ Of the evening, Edevanir writes, “It was great!”

60 Leandro’s brother was going on a mission, published. She began reading a talk by Opposite page: The so the family home evening was a going-away President Gordon B. Hinckley. It seemed Velasco family of party. Edevanir recalls: “The Spirit of the Lord that each of his words explained to us how to Manila, Philippines, touched me in such a way that I felt a warmth conduct ourselves in relation to other family gathers for family inside me so strongly that I didn’t know what members. As we read the words of our living home evening. Next to do, and I felt a joy so grand that I could no prophet, I saw that my sister had grown calm, page: The Pardo longer feel alone. having found support in the Holy Ghost, family of Santiago, “After that family home evening I began which was liberally poured out on us. We Chile, enjoys a game the missionary discussions and soon was bap- felt like beloved daughters of God, able to as part of home tized. The following year I was called to serve go further in order to fight for good. Our evening. in the Brazil Porto Alegre Mission [later the souls were at peace.” Brazil Santa Maria Mission]. Just eight years after that special family home evening with Wanting This Happiness Leandro, I am now sharing family home Carla Santivañez Castro of the Lima Perú evenings with my own family.” Surco Stake writes: “I remember one family home evening in particular. We four chil- At Peace in a Crowd dren were very attentive to the lesson Papa A family home evening doesn’t need shared with us. We participated in wonder- to be at home to be memorable. Lyubov ful games. We not only had a lot of fun, but Salimova of the Donetsk Ukraine District we learned about the Savior. The thing I shares a special family home evening remember most about that night was seeing she experienced while vacationing at the my parents so happy as they enjoyed this seashore. Her sister, who lived nearby, time with us, their children. Many times had invited her to family home evening at I have remembered the joyful feelings of 8:00 p.m. “Much to my surprise, however, that night. long before the appointed hour, my sister “Now my beloved husband and I have the met me at the seashore. ‘It won’t work out opportunity to hold our own family home at home,’ she explained. She tried to smile, evenings and experience the joy I saw in my but the smile came out wry and forced. parents. My hope is that someday our chil- I felt that she was doing her best not to dren will feel the same love, warmth, security, start crying. She was having problems at and safety in our family home evenings that I home. Her suggestion to have family home felt that night so long ago.” evening right there on the seashore was surprising in its absurdity. All around, peo- ple were walking, sitting, sunbathing, and laughing. Nevertheless, I agreed. “We placed our towels across from each other and lay down on them. We bowed our heads and prayed. My sister had the July 2002 Liahona, in which general conference talks were PHOTOGRAPHS OF FAMILIES BY ADAM C. OLSON ADAM BY OF FAMILIES PHOTOGRAPHS TAKE TIME FOR HOME EVENING

Family Home Evening Alone “Draw your chil- endowment, and I wanted to hold a Berengere Caviale of the Nancy dren around family home evening about the impor- France Stake writes: “A few weeks about you. Teach tance of the temple. I had prepared ago, during an interview with one them, guide them, well, but my six-year-old son, Tyler, was of the members of the stake presi- and guard them. There was never inattentive and disruptive. I felt discour- dency, I was given the challenge to a time when we needed so much aged and ready to cancel the lesson. hold regular family home evenings. the strength and the solidarity of “Prompted by the Spirit, I looked Since I am single, I did not feel it the home.” my son in the eyes and asked him, President Harold B. Lee (1899–1973), was necessary to have family home “Follow the Leadership of the Church,” ‘Do you know that attending the tem- evening, but I did commit to trying Ensign, July 1973, 95. ple is the most important thing you it as an experiment. The following need to do?’ The impact of those week I put my commitment to the test, although I was words was incredible. He was sobered and became inter- somewhat skeptical. I began with a prayer and then sang ested in learning about the temple. We marveled over the a few hymns. From that moment I was able to feel the pictures of the temples and wondered about the mansion Spirit very strongly. Then I read a passage in the Bible Jesus Christ is preparing for our return to Him. We put about the life of Christ. I read it, wrote down some com- together a puzzle of the temple and then did it again ments, and then decided to follow His example. I ended because we had so much fun. We sang ‘I Love to See the with several hymns, which lifted my spirit. During those Temple.’ Later, Tyler decorated our hallway with pictures 45 minutes of family home evening, I was able to hold on of different temples. He also decided to make a temple to a bit of heaven!” switch plate cover for the hall light, complete with his own drawing of the Salt Lake Temple. Now every time we turn Trying to Inspire a Six-Year-Old on the light we can remember that the temple lights our A challenge faced by some families is how to reach way to return home to the Lord. and inspire young children during family home evening. “I am so grateful that the Spirit guided me during our Christine Carter of the Syracuse New York Stake writes: lesson and that I did not give up on teaching my son of “I recently attended the temple to receive my own the importance of the temple.” ■ L et’s T BY MARIANNE MONSON-BURTON A ry hen our son Nathan turned two and g a half, we began using occasional a time-outs as a consequence for breaking in! Wfamily rules. I became concerned, however, by the negative feelings my son displayed when a time-out concluded. He often seemed sad and discouraged. As I prayed for a way to make the experience more As I pondered the dramatic effect this simple phrase positive, I felt impressed to say the phrase “Let’s had on my son, I considered the power contained in try again.” the words “Let’s try again!” I realized that God, the After the next time-out, I took my son’s hand Father of us all, does and said with enthusiasm, “Let’s try again!” Suddenly not want us to dwell the focus shifted away from his negative behavior and hopelessly on the centered instead on the opportunity he had to start mistakes we over. I was amazed at the difference this approach made. have made. Instead of coming out of time-out feeling punished, Instead, He he was eager to make better choices. invites us to I soon started using the phrase in a multitude sincerely repent of situations. I found myself inviting Nathan in lots and focus of ways: “Let’s try again! This time we can do better. This on a brighter time we can be gentle” or “This time we can be kind.” future where we The saying became such a motivator for my son can improve each day. PHOTOGRAPH BY BRADLEY SLADE, MODEL BY POSED BY PHOTOGRAPH that during a time-out he often called to me, To make repentance possi- “Mommy, I am ready to try again!” ble, God was even willing to offer the life of His Beloved Son. His promise is: “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crim- son, they shall be as wool” (Isaiah 1:18). Watching my son’s renewed determination to do better, I felt a surge of gratitude for a loving Father in Heaven, who is merciful to His children when they repent. I also felt a deep appre- ciation for the Savior, whose infinite Atonement makes it possible for each of us to say, “Let’s try again!” ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 63 LESSONS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT Watchmen of theLLordord BY ELDER GARY J. COLEMAN Of the Seventy

ne of the great blessings of member- these men were referred to as “[watchmen] ship in the restored Church is the unto the house of Israel” (Ezekiel 33:7) and Oopportunity to be led by prophets “watchmen upon [Jerusalem’s] walls” (Isaiah and apostles of the Lord, just as members of 62:6). “Therefore,” the Lord declared, “thou the ancient Church were led. When I was a shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn new convert many years ago, I noticed that my them from me” (Ezekiel 33:7). friends and colleagues in The Church of Jesus In the latter days the Lord gave a parable Just as a “watchman Christ of Latter-day Saints were not bashful in in which a nobleman told his servant to “set AL ROUNDS; BY upon the tower” declaring their desire to “follow the Brethren.” watchmen round about . . . , and build a tower, was able to protect I came to know they meant following the 15 that one may overlook the land round about, his people because men whom the Lord had designated as to be a watchman upon the tower” (D&C HOUSE, MY FATHER’S of the perspective his prophets, seers, and revelators and as His 101:45). Just as a “watchman upon the tower”

position afforded, so special witnesses in the latter days. Anciently was able to protect his people because of the BACKGROUND: BARRETT ROBERT T. BY ILLUSTRATIONS do the prophets and apostles protect us.

64 perspective his position afforded, so do the prophets and Forest. We were to be “watchmen upon the tower” through- apostles protect us. out the summer, watching for fires started accidentally by careless campers and hikers, prompted by sparks from Personal Experiences heavy machinery or hotboxes on railroad cars, or ignited by My appreciation for the vision, insight, revelatory nature, hundreds of lightning strikes from passing storms. We were and far-reaching discernment of our living prophets has housed high above the ground in a 20-by-20-foot cabin with been heightened because of personal experiences I have four glassed walls positioned upon four stout legs. had high in the lookout towers of U.S. national forests. Prior to taking up residence in the lookout tower, we paid Immediately following our sealing in the Cardston Alberta a visit to the president of the St. Maries Branch, some 35 Temple, my wife and I journeyed to northern Idaho to begin miles from the tower, and asked for his counsel concerning my assignment on Anthony Peak in the St. Joe National our responsibilities as Church members living in his branch.

ne of the great Oblessings of membership in the restored Church is the opportunity to be led by prophets and apostles of the Lord, just as members of the ancient Church were led.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 65 We did not have access to Church with the Lord, and a desire to honor services due to our isolation and HELPS FOR HOME EVENING the Lord and His prophets and apos- professional duties each day while Most Ensign articles can be used for family tles and to endure to the end. We home evening discussions, personal reflection, manning the tower. He gave us per- enjoyed 100 percent attendance at or teaching the gospel in a variety of settings. mission and encouragement to hold 1. Take the family to a hill or to a higher level all our meetings, even though we all of our Church services and regu- of the home for family home evening. Invite fam- had no high council visitors to check lar member activities as a couple on ily members to look around and discuss what up on us all summer! We deter- the lookout tower. they see. What are their advantages of vision? mined to do as the prophet Joshua How could they be of aid if an emergency arose As each Sunday came along that below? Relate how Elder Coleman’s experience taught his people: “Choose you this summer, we prepared our worship in the Idaho mountains gave him a new perspec- day whom ye will serve; . . . but as services, following the command- tive on following Church leaders. Remind family for me and my house, we will serve ments of the Lord and counsel of the members that the prophets and apostles have a the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). better perspective and serve as our watchmen. Brethren to attend church, nour- 2. If the family has young children, have them ish one another in the gospel, and draw an interpretation of the second paragraph of They Have Seen the Terrain faithfully renew our covenants. the article. Discuss dangers watchmen see and I was no stranger to mountain Priesthood meeting was held for the invite them to add these to their drawings. Who work and firefighting prior to this one priesthood holder in attendance; are the latter-day watchmen? Bear testimony of experience. When we lived on the how prophets have prepared and protected you Relief Society meeting was prepared tower as “watchmen” over our dis- from the dangers in the world today. by my dear wife; Sunday School les- trict, we could literally survey for sons were implemented, with each miles the conditions and locations where I had worked of us helping to give the lessons; and sacrament meeting was in that district during the previous two summers. always a sacred opportunity to sing, pray, and bless and pass Similarly, the prophets and apostles are “watchmen the sacrament in memory of the Savior’s Atonement. We fol- upon the tower” during these latter days. They bring to lowed this by sharing talks and testimonies with each other. their assignment many years of experience on the path- We had everything we needed to be active members of the ways of the Church worldwide. They have seen the terrain, Church: the scriptures, the manuals, family home evening and they have walked the hills and valleys of life in their lessons, our faith, our obedience to our eternal covenants responsibilities as fathers, husbands, students, young

66 marrieds, participants in Church callings, and professionals pray daily, avoid the pitfalls of immorality, honor parents, in various pursuits of life. They man the Lord’s watchtowers be respectful to spouse and children, serve God and with vision and with the ability to give direction and coun- humankind, keep our covenants, follow the example sel on countless matters that arise throughout the kingdom of Jesus Christ in our daily living, and keep all the other of God here on the earth. We remember the Lord’s counsel commandments that will help us stay on gospel paths to the prophet Amos: “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, during these troubled times. but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets” Just as the prophets of the Old Testament guided the (Amos 3:7). covenant people through generations of ancient times, The Lord tells these watchmen on the tower what they so do our prophets guide us during our mortal journey need to teach and how they should help prepare Church in these latter days. We welcome the opportunity to heed members for storms and difficulties (see D&C 115:6). They these watchmen on the tower, for we know that in follow- see far into the distance and thus make warnings and ing their counsel, we are following the Lord. “My word preparations even for those who haven’t seen the storm shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled,” the Savior clouds beginning to form. These watchmen counsel us to tells us; “whether by mine own voice or by the voice of keep the Sabbath day holy, study the scriptures regularly, my servants, it is the same” (D&C 1:38). ■

s each Sunday came along A that summer, we prepared our worship services, following the commandments of the Lord and counsel of the Brethren to attend church and nourish one another in the gospel.

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 67 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

branch closest to her home. I was of a Latter-day Saint young woman. quite surprised when she accepted But it was Maria! Heart my invitation. We decided to meet at I confess that I had doubted she Condition the train station the following Sunday would be there waiting for me, and I so we could go to the meetings also doubted that the gospel would By Raquel Pedraza de Brosio together. produce any changes in her life— had just started a new job and Sunday arrived, and as my train inside or out. was trying to save money to approached the station where we We greeted each other and walked I serve a mission. As time went were to meet, I peered out the win- the 15 minutes to church. We went on, new employees were hired, and dow, looking for the Maria I knew to Relief Society first, where Maria I was assigned to train a young from work. To my surprise, I saw wanted to answer the questions and woman about my age. instead a young lady whose skirt participate in everything the teacher Maria (name has been changed), was modest and whose hair and asked us to do. She also enjoyed my new co-worker, was obviously makeup were all that could be asked Sunday School and sacrament meet- concerned with her appearance. She ing. I introduced her to the sister conformed to the popular trend of s my train missionaries, who invited her to hear wearing short skirts, dark makeup, approached the lessons, and Maria readily agreed. and bold hairstyles, and she also had A the station A short time later we lost contact developed some bad habits, such as where we were smoking. Despite our differences, to meet, I peered Maria and I worked well together. out my window, She was pleasant to talk with, and looking for Maria. time passed quickly when we were together. One day at work she asked, “Raquel, do you ever go dancing?” I told her I attended dances at my church. She asked which church it was, and I explained that it is called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints and that its members are often called Mormons. Maria told me she had heard of the Mormons, but she didn’t know any of our beliefs. I was excited to share more about the Church with her, and I offered her a copy of the Book of Mormon, which she was happy to accept.

In time I invited her to attend the LEWIS DANIEL BY ILLUSTRATED

68 ttached to the e-mail A was a page Cesare had scanned from a because she didn’t continue Book of Mormon with her job. But it wasn’t I had given him. long before I received an invitation to her baptism. I was disappointed I couldn’t attend, and again we lost contact. After serving for nine months in the Argentina Mendoza Mission, I read in the local pages of the Liahona that Maria was serving in the Argentina Resistencia Mission. I started jumping for joy and immediately wrote to her. In her reply she told me about her mission preparation. Her parents had not supported her desire to join the Church. Yet she had attended church Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man and institute classes and had sacrificed looketh on the outward appearance, much in order to serve a mission. but the Lord looketh on the heart.” Many years have now passed, and Heavenly Father knows the hearts of “You are now around 50 years old, and Maria and I have seen each other His children, and to Him the heart is I am 37. I have only a vague remem- again. She is a temple worker in the what matters. ■ brance of your person, and I am not Buenos Aires Argentina Temple and sure if the man I remember is the is enjoying the love of her husband one I am writing to.” Actually, I was and children. She lives the gospel and Delayed 45 years old, and who was this person radiates its light. Today her appear- who would address me as “Elder”? I ance reflects all that is in her heart, Harvest hadn’t been called that since my mis- and although she does not know it, By Rian W. Jones sion. The writer then asked if I was she has not only given me a special still active in the Church and had kept memory but has taught me a great sat at my desk one Monday morn- the spirit of my mission. My curiosity principle—the gospel is for everyone. ing looking at all the e-mails that was really piqued now. As members of the Church, we should I had piled up over the weekend. “I was only 12 years old when you not refrain from sharing our testi- Always suspicious of a computer and your companion taught me the monies just because, in our judgment, virus, I was almost ready to delete an gospel in Taranto, Italy. The year was a person’s appearance indicates he e-mail and its attachment that were 1975.” My mind raced as I tried to or she might reject our message. from an unknown sender. But as my recall the writer. “You are probably Now, whenever I think about finger paused on the mouse button, asking yourself if you baptized me. Maria, 1 Samuel 16:7 comes to mind: ready to click, the Spirit prompted me No, you didn’t, because my mother “Look not on his countenance, or on to open the message. and father refused permission.” The the height of his stature; . . . for the “Hello, Elder Rian Jones,” it began. writer went on to explain how painful

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 69 and embarrassing it was for him and where a small, good action can years. Now a scripture came to his brother to stop the missionaries lead.” He signed his e-mail “Cesare mind: “And if it so be that you on the steps of their apartment build- Quarinto.” Later he told me he had should labor all your days in crying ing as we were going to ask his par- found my e-mail address on the Italy repentance unto this people, and ents for permission to baptize him. Rome Mission Web site. bring, save it be one soul unto me, He recounted how he kept coming Try as I might, I could not recall how great shall be your joy with to church for a while but eventually the experience of teaching a 12-year- him in the kingdom of my Father!” stopped because he could not be old boy in Taranto. But the attach- (D&C 18:15). ■ baptized. “But I kept the teachings ment to the e-mail was a page he in my heart and never betrayed the had scanned from an old copy of the principles I was taught,” he wrote. Book of Mormon. It was a dedication, A Unique I served in the Italy Rome Mission written in my handwriting in Italian, from 1975 to 1977, and Taranto was dated September 14, 1975. It read: Combination my first city. But I could not recall “Dear Cesare, By Francis Davis the story that was unfolding in this “I am giving you this gift so that e-mail. The writer explained that when you can read it to find the beautiful t was 5:30 p.m. on a Friday in he was 22 years old he was called into truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. June 2001, and I was working in compulsory military service in north- Don’t ever forget prayer, because it is Imy home office when the phone ern Italy. There he suffered a spiritual only through prayer that you can find rang. It was my wife calling in a bit of crisis that caused him to pray for the the truth. . . . I know this is the true a panic. She and our three daughters first time as an adult. He received an Church, and I hope to share this had been on a bike ride and had answer to his prayers, and because of truth with you. stopped at the supermarket for a this, he sought out the missionaries in “Your friend, cold drink and some ice cream. When that area. He found them at a fast-food “Elder Rian Jones” they came out of the store, the com- restaurant and told them he wanted Suddenly I had a perfect recollec- bination lock securing the bicycles to be baptized. “Nothing like that ever tion. Seeing the words I had written wouldn’t work. The combination happened to me on my mission,” I caused the memory to return. I was 3690, but it didn’t open the lock, thought. Those elders must have been recalled vividly the rented space which was firmly holding the bicycles shocked. we used for a chapel in Taranto. We against a metal fence just outside He was baptized and later married taught young Cesare the gospel in the store. in the temple at Friedrichsdorf, that building. I had given him his I jumped in our minivan and Germany. He now had three children, own copy of the Book of Mormon drove to the supermarket, but I had had moved to Canada several years shortly before I was transferred to no more luck than they had had. I ago, and was an active member of the another city. Recalling the circum- drove my wife and daughters home Church. stances and reading Cesare’s e-mail, and began to think of what I could “I don’t know if you will ever I was overcome with joy. do. The first counselor in the branch answer this e-mail. If you do, I will I did have some success on my presidency repairs saws, so I called tell you many other things about my mission, but unfortunately most of and explained my predicament to life and how I have been blessed by the people I baptized had fallen him. He told me that most bicycle your mission. Elder, you never know away from the Church over the locks of this kind are made from

70 LATTER-DAY SAINT VOICES

toughened steel that is impervious both have the same black plastic “Did You Think to Pray?” (Hymns, to saws and bolt cutters. But he said casing. It was now 7:55 and too late no. 140). I could at least try to cut the lock. to get home and back before the In my panic I had failed to do I found the box containing my store closed. the simplest thing. I had forgotten electric saw and an extension cable. I tried the lock again, tugging as to pray. So I bowed my head and I called the store to ask if I could hard as I could to separate the two explained my situation to Heavenly use their power for my saw. They pieces, but nothing moved. A cou- Father. I left nothing out. I even kindly said I could. By the time I ple of people were staring at me, told Him how silly I felt about the arrived, it was 7:45, and the store and employees were starting to drill/saw mistake. In an instant I felt would close at 8:00. I was under close the store. prompted to try the lock again. I pressure and started to panic too. I sat in the minivan and thumped got out of the car, and as I started If the bicycles were there the steering wheel, feeling utterly frus- to tumble the combination to read overnight, they would surely be a trated. Then in my “mind’s ear” I 3690 again, I heard a number whis- target for vandalism, and besides, heard my daughter singing the hymn pered in my ear: 2591. I looked my wife, who couldn’t drive at that around, but no one was standing time, used them every day to get tried the there. I tried 2591, and the lock fell the children to and from school. lock again, open in my hands. When I got to the store I grabbed I but nothing Never before or since have I had my electric saw’s hard plastic case, moved. It was an answer to my prayers given so opened it, and found I had brought getting late, and clearly or so quickly. Tears rolled my cordless drill by mistake. They I was getting down my face as I loaded the bi- worried. cycles into the back of our minivan. I hurried home and related the story to my wife and children. Later when I turned the numbers to 3690, just as I expected, the gaps in the teeth inside the cylinder didn’t line up so that I could put the two pieces of the lock back together. I then tried 2591, and it didn’t work either. Inspecting more closely, I realized that the tumblers had bro- ken. Every time I turned them, a dif- ferent number would open the lock. So, considering the thousands of possible combinations I could have tried that Friday evening, only heaven could help me find the one unique combination. And all I had to do was ask in faith. ■

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 71 RANDOM SAMPLER

• The diet restricts too good to be true. Foods don’t Six Tips or eliminates cer- burn or melt fat away. No food can tain food groups undo the long-term effects of for Spotting or requires overeating and underexercising. specific food Testimonials, histories, and anec- a Fad Diet combina- dotes that sound too good to ur Heavenly Father tions. be true probably are. Look for has given us the won- Eliminating cer- documented scientific research Oderful gift of a physical tain food groups to support claims. body, which is needed to progress may lead to defi- • The diet implies that and become like Him. With this gift ciencies of some nutri- weight can be lost without we are given the responsibility to ents. Combining or exercise. An care for our bodies, and good nutri- sequencing cer- increase in tion is an important part of our tain foods does any daily responsibility. not enhance activity can As a registered dietitian, I am weight loss. help you burn often asked my opinion of the latest Diets should more calories diet. Some diets are based on solid raise con- and lose weight. nutrition and health cern if they Activities such as principles, emphasize walking or riding a while oth- certain foods, bike are important in losing ers seem to such as unlimited amounts of cab- weight and maintaining defy basic bage soup, grapefruit, or ice cream, weight loss. biochem- or eliminate food groups, such as • The diet relies istry and carbohydrate-rich foods. on rigid menus. promise • The diet promotes “miracle” Limiting quick, foods or makes promises that sound food choices easy results. and adhering to Below are six strict eating tips to help schedules you recog- is unpleas- nize a fad ant and diet: unhealthy • The diet claims a large or rapid and may weight loss. Sound nutrition plans increase aim for a weight loss of one to two the likelihood that you pounds per week. Slow, gradual will cheat, binge, or give up weight loss increases your suc- on the diet. You should be cess for keeping weight off in the able to follow a diet plan for a long term. lifetime.

72

LEFT AND ABOVE: ILLUSTRATIONS BY JOE FLORES; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION BY BETH WHITTAKER Doctors counsel tocareforourbodies. will beblessedaswefollowtheLord’s the diettoWord ofWisdom. We nutrition professionals,andcompare fad diet,studytheopinionsoftrusted diet, reviewtheprogramforsignsofa my husbandwantedtojoin in the community, andfamilyevents.Soon as wellcommentsonworldwide, also sharedadviceandmytestimony, himdoing.I things Ihadobserved describing howhewasgrowingand nal, Iaddressedalettertohim, With inanotebookjour- eachentry forgettosharelater.might otherwise him. Iwantedtoexpressfeelings trusted healthprofessionalsand W Dear Son Pauline Williams, Utah • The dietcontradictswhatmost writing “journal letters”to writing “journal seven weeksold,Ibegan hen myfirstchildwasjust groups say. Diet a dietthatempha- begin followinga including whole grains, vegetables, sizes avari- ety offoods, meats, and fruits, lean fruits, products. dairy dairy low-fat Before you Look for pictures toenhancewhatIhave all ofthem.Ialsolike toadddigital Iwanttosharewith pasting theparts nals onthecomputer, copyingand have ourthirdchild,Itypetheir jour- ents towriteentriesalso.Nowthatwe Sunday practice. writing, andwemadeitaregular D a Month An ArticleofFaith scriptures todiscussthe family roomweused activity ineachone. inadifferent participating room toinourhome, of faith,wewouldgofrom article aparticular learning 13. Then,inthecourseof all for ustoeventuallylearn each, preparinginadvance made severalcopiesof ofFaith and up theArticles household settings. teaching methodsand incorporated avarietyof interest,we everyone’s requirements. To engage pass offherFaith inGod help ouroldestdaughterto family night.We wantedto one eachmonthduring standing andmemorizing decided toworkonunder- Faith? We diduntilwe I havesinceinvitedhisgrandpar- For instance,inthe First, ourdaughtertyped ber the Articles of ber theArticles toremem- struggle oes yourfamily FAMILY HOMEEVENINGHELPS the words,trying ered upsomeof one ofusthencov- about. Withawrittencopy, of faithordrawwhatitwas members writethearticle bedroom wehadfamily back together. Next,ina invited thefamilytoputit our paperprintoutsand kitchen wecutuponeof away.farther Theninthe ifhewas ing itandsofter children cameclosetofind- singing louderasoneofour hiding apieceofcandyand played asimplegameof sing itseveraltimes,we on CD.To motivateusto song offaithPrimary article listened tothatparticular master bedroom,wherewe Then wemovedtothe meaning ofourfirstarticle. Emily Cushing,Utah and ourSavior. our strongloveforthem,the gospel, children havelastingrecords of our that throughthesejournals journal. copy oftheirpreviousyear’s Igivethemapersonal birthdays, written. Theneachyearfortheir It bringsmegreatjoytoknow at Churchdistribution Songbook of thePrimary Note: Audiorecordings Turek,Laura Nevada heart. andto of Faith tomemory easily committheArticles tures, alsohelpedusto bookmarks inourscrip- the houseandincludedas faith, postedthroughout of of eachmonth’sarticle they could. if recite itfrommemory offaithand of thearticle discussthemeaning further we invitedthechildrento another bedroom,where ing. Ourlaststopwas whatwasmiss- determined to stumptheothersasthey centers oronlineat ldscatalog.com and lds.org/music. Simple remindercopies ENSIGN are available SEPTEMBER 2006 Children’s 73 been built while the man whose name it bears is still alive,” President Hinckley said. “I suppose Brother

DESERET MORNING NEWS Samuelson concluded I was only half dead and that we could go forward accordingly.” The Gordon B. Hinckley Alumni and Visitors’ Center is scheduled to be finished by fall 2007. A building bearing the prophet’s name was also

PHOTOGRAPH BY KEITH JOHNSON, COURTESY OF KEITH JOHNSON, BY PHOTOGRAPH dedicated at Brigham Young University–Idaho in October 2002. In addition to being a gate- way to BYU and a campus home for alumni, the build- ing is a tribute to President Hinckley and his life. “Because of his unflagging President Gordon B. Hinckley breaks ground for a building named in his honor efforts in the areas of educa- at Brigham Young University. tion, public outreach, and international friendship, his name evokes the very pur- President Hinckley Begins 96th Birthday poses of this building,” the BYU Alumni Web site states. Breaking Ground He is “an extraordinary resident Gordon B. President Hinckley in ceremoniously turning ambassador” for the Church, Hinckley started off thanked guests and com- the first dirt for the building. and “his long life is character- Phis 96th birthday cele- mented about how his wife, Afterward President Hinckley ized by openness, under- bration with a shovel and Marjorie Pay Hinckley, who donated the shovel he used standing, and love of the some dirt. died in 2004, had also been from his own tool collection. Savior.” Hundreds of Brigham honored at BYU when the Construction commenced After the groundbreaking, Young University alumni, fac- Social Work and Social immediately after the family, invited guests, and ulty, family, friends, and stu- Sciences chair was named ceremony. university leaders hosted dents looked on as President in her honor in 2003. The BYU Board of President Hinckley at a pri- Hinckley took his own shovel “Maybe we could move Trustees approved develop- vate luncheon. in hand to scoop dirt to kick her chair into my building, ment of the new center in His children paid tribute off the construction of an and we’d be together again,” October 2005, and President to their father, and President 80,000-square-foot building he said. Cecil O. Samuelson Samuelson presented him that will bear his name at the President Thomas S. announced the new building with a brick with his name school in Provo. Monson, President James E. the following month. The on it to represent the new “You do me a great honor Faust, and President building is funded entirely center that bears his name. and a great kindness in what Hinckley’s son Clark also from private donations. President Hinckley has you do today,” President spoke at the groundbreaking. Brigham Young University served as the 15th President Hinckley told guests at the Family, counselors in the has eight other buildings of the Church since 1995. groundbreaking celebration First Presidency, BYU Board named after Presidents of Before that, he served 14 for the new Gordon B. of Trustees, friends of the the Church. years as a counselor in the Hinckley Alumni and Visitors’ university, and donors “This new building is sin- First Presidency and 20 years Center on June 23, 2006. joined President Hinckley gular in the fact that it has as a member of the Quorum

74 of the Twelve Apostles. CBS newsman Mike character and faith, and The Church’s Welfare President Hinckley has trav- Wallace paid tribute to through it all, a builder of Department stayed in con- eled around the world, dedi- President Hinckley at the people. The pace has been tact with leaders across the cating many temples and “Celebration of Life” program tiring, but he has been tire- flooded states, offering sup- visiting Church members, for his 95th birthday last year. less. But from his point of port and assessing needs who now number more than “He is and has always been view, it’s been worth it to in the different areas. 12.5 million worldwide. He a builder,” Mr. Wallace said, help build the organization President Nixon said, has been interviewed by sev- “a builder of families, youth, he loves by building the peo- “At times like this, you feel eral major news organizations. missionaries. A builder of ple that he loves so much.” ■ extremely blessed that you’re part of such a magnificent organization. . . . When you Church Members Affected by Flooding have people . . . calling from Salt Lake to check on mem- xtensive rainfall from Noah,” said William Nixon, members were also affected bers whom they don’t even New York to Virginia president of the Mount by the flooding. know, and also willing to pro- Ein the eastern United Vernon Virginia Stake, near Keith Dunford, president vide resources to the commu- States in June caused wide- Washington, D.C., as he of the stake, told of one fam- nity at large, it’s a pretty spread flooding and described the approximate ily whose house succumbed remarkable organization.” ■ evacuations. foot of rain that drenched to the flooding. Crews helped Flooding occurred in the area. the family get their belong- low-lying areas. Particularly He said four Latter-day ings out of the house before Deaf Attend hard hit were areas along Saint families in the Franconia it slid into the water. the Susquehanna River. Ward, Mount Vernon Virginia For the most part, Church Family Thousands were evacuated Stake, were displaced when members have maintained a from their homes temporar- 200 homes in their neighbor- positive attitude in the wake History ily, roads were closed, and hood were evacuated due of the flooding. “We’re grate- buildings were damaged. to flooding. Although other ful that the levy along the Workshop Governors of flooded states members in the stake weren’t Susquehanna held,” President By Abbey Olsen, declared a state of emergency required to evacuate, many Dunford said. Otherwise, Church Magazines in several counties. There had anywhere from three “that would have been a n occasional laugh were 16 confirmed deaths. inches to three feet of water disaster.” from the audience All missionaries and Church in their basements. Members in the Wilkes- A broke the silence as members were reported safe. Farther north in the Barre Ward evacuated and full-time missionary Robert “We felt a kinship to Scranton Pennsylvania Stake, stayed overnight with other Powers explained different members but were able to family history resources at return the next day. the Church’s Family History In the Owego New York Library. Stake, members evacuated Elder Powers’s library ori- their homes, and some were entation class was one of 50 housed temporarily in a classes taught at the fourth meetinghouse. One couple biennial genealogical work- in Binghamton was rescued shop for the deaf and hard by a helicopter, and some in of hearing June 19–23, 2006, Owego were rescued by boat. in Salt Lake City. Many stayed at shelters until “It’s probably the quietest the water receded. conference you’ll ever go Richard Miller, president to,” remarked an observer as of the Owego New York Elder Powers communicated Stake, said that as the floods through sign language to his

PHOTOGRAPH BY RON EDMONDS, COURTESY OF THE ASSOCIATED PRESS COURTESY OF THE ASSOCIATED RON EDMONDS, BY PHOTOGRAPH abated, members were able audience. Heavy storms flooded the northeastern United States and to go in, clean up, and help “The goal of this workshop knocked down this elm at the White House. the people affected. is to have the deaf community

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 75 and the deaf patrons come family history work, work- workshop attendees came provide another venue to here and take these classes shop attendees participated from outside Utah, across access conference. the same as hearing people,” in activities such as going on the United States and Web users who have a said Dulane Woodhouse, an interpreted field trip to the Canada. Although three- high-speed Internet connec- chairperson for the workshop. Humanitarian Center, watch- fourths of the participants tion can go to the broadcast Twenty-five instructors, ing the film Joseph Smith: The are Latter-day Saints, a page on LDS.org during live 17 of whom are deaf, taught Prophet of the Restoration fourth are not members of Church broadcasts and click genealogical classes on 40 in an ASL-interpreted and the Church but are actively on a link that will take them topics to 135 registered closed-captioned session, interested in genealogy. to BYU-TV’s live video participants in classrooms at touring the Lion House and The weeklong activities stream. the Joseph Smith Memorial Museum of Church History and workshops culminated BYU-TV launched in 2000 Building. Workshop partici- and Art, and visiting This Is on June 25, 2006, when all and has regularly broadcast pants learned everything the Place Heritage Park. Some the deaf wards and branches Church content for programs from family history basics, participants attended a spe- from Utah gathered in the such as general conference, such as using PAF or cial temple session for the Conference Center Theater the Young Women and Relief TempleReady, to more deaf in the Salt Lake Temple on Sunday morning for Society general meetings, and advanced information such as well. a family history regional Church Educational System as the Napoleonic Civil About 50 percent of conference. ■ firesides. Registration. Many partici- BYU-TV had previously pants practiced their new- provided a limited number of found skills a block away at Church Satellite Broadcasts online video streams, but in the Family History Library. November 2005 it partnered Elder Robert and Sister Available Online with a company that provides Virginia Powers have been eb users will be Ron Schwendiman, man- mass video streaming capabil- serving as full-time mission- able once again to ager of Internet coordination ity on the Internet. The tech- aries in the deaf zone of the Wsee and hear the in the Church’s Curriculum nology allowed BYU-TV to Family History Library for prophet speak live through Department, says the service provide online video streams more than two years. They video streams online in next “enables English speakers to thousands of viewers. The helped organize and coordi- month’s general conference. who are not able to get to a technology also allowed view- nate the event. Beginning with the first building or who are unable ers who live on the other side “I’m at a loss for words major test at the April 2006 to receive it through other of the globe, where confer- right now to describe the spirit general conference, the means to be able to watch ence airs during the middle that is here,” Sister Powers Church partnered with BYU- conference live on their of the night, to access ses- said. “It’s very touching.” TV to provide live video computers.” sions at a time convenient Although they left 14 streams of general confer- Through this technology, to them. grandchildren behind when ence in English through a more than 200,000 live online BYU-TV also offers a they left their home in link on LDS.org. video connections from more Windows Media stream for Riverside, California, to serve The Church had previ- than 126 different countries Mac, Linux, and other users a mission, Elder and Sister ously provided live confer- were provided during general (www.byutv.org/streaming). Powers have been influential ence video streaming online, conference in April. Of the The Church provides in making Family History but the cost became prohibi- sessions, the Sunday after- Windows Media video Library resources more tive per user when it was last noon session had the most archives of the conference accessible to deaf patrons. available on LDS.org about Internet traffic with 108,312 broadcasts at www.lds.org/ With a force of about 14 three years ago. connections. conference. Church service missionaries Last year BYU-TV offered Brother Schwendiman Although the live video helping in the library, Sister to provide the service, and said some interruptions in stream is currently available Powers said deaf people com- the partnership began when the service occurred during only in English, discussions ment that it is easier to come the Church linked to BYU-TV conference, but feedback has are ongoing about the possi- to the library because they to provide live video streams been mostly positive as the bility of providing the live know someone can commu- of the Joseph Smith celebra- Church and BYU-TV continue video streams in other lan- nicate with them. tion and the 2005 Christmas to work to understand how guages such as Spanish and In addition to classes and devotional. to best use the technology to Portuguese. ■

76 fences, and held a carnival Tolman, stake Young Women Strengthening for children to attend while president. “This is why mis- the repairs were being sionaries say that [missions the Community completed. are] the best two years of Youth Take On an “Extreme adults in the Alpine Utah Stake “It’s just been amazing to their lives. It’s because they Neighborhood Makeover” who joined forces June 10, watch how hard these kids were in complete service— etting up before 6:00 2006, to work in a neighbor- have worked,” said Joseph complete.” a.m. on a Saturday hood fix-up project in Provo, Nilson, president of the Sister Tolman said some G morning to shingle Utah, as part of their stake’s Alpine Utah Stake. “You homeowners just stood there roofs, paint houses, and mow three-day youth conference. don’t have to go too far to and cried with the offers of lawns after being soaked in a They reroofed 5 homes, find service opportunities, service: mountain downpour the day painted 15, and laid a few and it’s wonderful for them “Can we paint your before might deter some peo- lawns with sod, performing to get out and see their reli- house?” ple, but not Andy Pearce and service on a total of 25 homes. gion in action.” “I can’t afford the paint.” Ryan Wheeler, youth from the Some homeowners were The morning before, “We’re going to provide Alpine Fourth Ward, Alpine skeptical when stake service the group had traveled up the paint. What color do you Utah Stake. committee members visited the mountain for a sunrise want?” Arriving before the major- their neighborhood in the fireside. But a storm met “I have a choice of color?” ity of their youth counter- weeks before the project to the youth, and they trekked “Yes.” parts, who came at about 8:00 find out what repairs needed down the mountain in a She said, “It’s just been a.m., they climbed a roof and to be done. downpour. They relocated to like opening the windows of began reroofing in a small But eight months of plan- a nearby college campus to heaven for them, and it’s our neighborhood in Provo and ning paid off as leaders listen to speakers and attend opportunity to let the youth didn’t want to eat breakfast directed the youth, who were workshops. They got rained reach out.” until they’d finished a good organized into “families,” in out again as they tried to hold Brad Christensen, who portion of the job. making requested repairs on some outdoor games. was a youth conference coor- These young men were each house. They pulled “I hope the service day dinator with his wife, Kim, just 2 of almost 400 young weeds, primed houses, edged [was] the highlight of youth said he hopes the youth will people and 100 leaders and lawns, shingled roofs, painted conference,” said JoAnn take at least two things from the experience. First, a rain metaphor: when it rains, it doesn’t rain everywhere, but everyone needs water. “The water in the moun- tains we pipe to people in the valley so that they can use it even though no rain fell on them,” he explained. “Material wealth is the same way. It rains in different places. What I hope they walk away with is that God expects us to share the wealth.” Brother Christensen also hopes the youth learn that one way to find more happi- ness “is the least obvious way they ever would have consid- ered, and that is to get out

PHOTOGRAPH BY ABBEY OLSEN BY PHOTOGRAPH and work and help other Youth from the Alpine Utah Stake clean up, reroof, and paint one of the homes selected for people.” service during their youth conference. “I hope they leave here

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 77 feeling happier and more ful- Church Aids More Than filled and more full of light 200 Brazilian Hospitals today than they ever would Sixty thousand Brazilian playing video games or going Church members have con- to a movie or doing some- cluded a four-month service thing self-indulgent, and that project that provided aid to they’ll catch onto the idea more than 200 hospitals in that true happiness is found 150 cities throughout Brazil. through helping other peo- Church members held ple,” Brother Christensen workshops and sewing bees said. in which they produced approximately 150,000 items Oregon Stake Serves to be donated to local hospi- Neighbor to Neighbor tals. The items included bed- Performing for inmates, sheets, shoe coverings, refurbishing the roof on the gowns, pillowcases, and local Baptist community cen- infant clothing. ter, or pruning yards—the Items such as bedsheets Oregon City Oregon Stake is are scarce for many hospitals in its fifth year serving neigh- in Brazil, as most funds go bor to neighbor. toward medications, hospital The Neighbor-to-Neighbor equipment, and employee initiative—created to unite Members of the Brazilian media reported on a 150-city salaries. And since hospital in service and enhance the service project organized by Church members. clothing is subjected to sterili- image of the Church in the zation up to four times daily, community—brings members “But the look on the faces Oregon City School District, the clothing has to be together to serve others with of the guards and the inmates Clackamas County Mental replaced frequently. whom they would not likely made all the hard work Health agencies, and Oxford In one month Restauração come into contact otherwise, worthwhile,” said Don Ririe, Homes—homes providing Hospital in Recife admits 800 such as the inmates of high councilor over this part shelter to women recovering patients, performs 700 surger- Oregon State Prison. of Neighbor-to-Neighbor. from substance abuse. ies, treats 12,000 outpatients, Inmates and volunteers “We enjoyed laughing This year each ward within and handles 12,000 emergen- worked side by side, shoulder with each other and feeling the stake was assigned to an cies. Hospital director George to shoulder, in the demolition close to one another,” one Oxford Home to assess and Teles was happy to receive and construction of a new guard shared. “No one has address the needs in each. supplies from the Church. chapel. ever done this before. Thank Bishops and Relief Society “We give thanks for any help “I’ve learned that together you for coming and helping presidents each toured their we get, since we always work we can accomplish very diffi- us remember we are really ward’s assigned home, and beyond our patient capacity,” cult things,” said Oregon City more alike than different.” volunteers cleaned, painted, he remarked. “Now we will Oregon stake president Gene Approximately 150 mem- weeded yards, repaired roofs have some breathing room Trone. “Doing the Lord’s bers toured the prisons to and decks, and completed in terms of bedclothing work is always worth it.” learn how they can play a other construction projects. changes.” The stake also remodeled supportive role in reducing “Never has there been a Members of the Church the chapel in the Coffee recidivism rates in their better way for my family to not only sewed clothes and Creek Women’s Correctional community. grow than serving in the bedsheets but also volun- Facility and performed the While this year’s Neighbor- Neighbor-to-Neighbor proj- teered their time giving pre- musical Honk for inmates, to-Neighbor service projects ects,” said Kati Morris, a sentations to school-age though bringing the produc- focused on serving inmates, member of the Oregon City children to teach them the tion to a secure facility was a the stake has also reached stake. “I cannot tell you how importance of helping others. challenge. The process of out to numerous groups in strong the desire is in my Others worked in hospitals checking all the props and the community under this own heart to become a bet- providing service wherever materials took hours. initiative, including the ter person.” needed. ■

78 member of the Quorum of Latter-day Saint Voices, yet October Special Issue Aimed the Twelve Apostles wishes each article will contain a every member knew, and arti- special message for new at Helping New Members cles addressing the topics of members. Many converts will learning new traditions and share how they overcame ew members of the commitment while explaining leaving old ones behind, find- the challenges and difficul- Church and those some of the blessings and ing peace in part-member ties they experienced as new Nwho work with them challenges associated with families, how to share what members. The issue will also will receive an important ad- joining the Church. you’ve learned, finding your include an introduction to ditional resource in October. New and long-time mem- place in the Church, and the Church magazines and The October Ensign and bers alike will find the issue more. suggestions for getting the Liahona will speak directly helpful in dealing with com- The Ensign will retain most out of them. to those who have recently mon challenges and fre- all of the magazine’s usual For members who would joined the Church, providing quently asked questions. The departments, including the like additional copies of the information and encourage- issue features a welcome by First Presidency Message, issue, the magazine will be ment aimed at strengthen- President Gordon B. Hinckley, Visiting Teaching Message, available through local distri- ing their testimonies and an article explaining what a Random Sampler, and bution centers. ■

Comment woman in the article rightly children from the predators of what missionary service Protecting Minds and Bodies explains that being a loving who would do them harm. entails is valuable and com- Your article “A Hole in parent and providing “a soft Name Withheld mendable. As more of them Her Soul” (July 2006) place to fall” was key to the understand that even sincere brought with it a flood of daughter’s recovery. A Realistic Preview and obedient missionaries tears and memories of my For the rest of us, preven- I appreciated the perspec- often experience profoundly experience some 27 years tion is of utmost importance. tive shared in “Yelled At, difficult challenges, the quiet ago as a teenager. I met a Your dating-safety inset is Barked At, and Rained strength and maturity of young man at a stake youth fine but may not go far On” (July 2006). Offering our missionary force will dance who claimed to be a enough. prospective missionaries an increase. member of a ward in a Parents need to come honest and realistic preview Cameron Turner, Indiana nearby town. We began dat- up with as nearly foolproof ing. My mom didn’t like him, guidelines as they can, no but she never told me this or matter how strict. There Call for Articles forbade him to come over. I were a few times I didn’t give suppose she feared it would my daughter permission to as your ward or and at the top of your sub- make me like him more. attend a social function sim- branch experienced mission include your name, One day he dropped by the ply because I had a bad feel- Hnotable success in its address, telephone number, house when no one else was ing about it. She would missionary efforts? Please e-mail address, and ward home, and that was when he complain and say I didn’t send us your experiences or and stake (or branch and assaulted me. I was in shock have concrete evidence, but stories about sharing the district). and had no idea what to do my point was that if some- gospel with family, friends, While we cannot or how to handle the situa- thing bad were to happen, and neighbors. acknowledge receipt of tion. I felt like my life was there would be no reversing Please send your submis- individual responses, we over and there was nothing the effect of it. We would sion (up to 1,600 words) will notify authors whose anyone could do. I was never know what might have by October 15, 2006, to submissions we select for “dirty,” and no one would happened, nor did we want [email protected] or publication. If you would want “used merchandise.” to know. to Ensign Editorial, 50 East like us to return your manu- Like the girl in the story, As we move farther and North Temple Street, Salt script, please enclose a I followed a path of self- farther into these perilous Lake City, Utah 84150-3220, self-addressed, stamped loathing and destruction times, we cannot be too care- USA. Clearly mark your sub- envelope, and allow up to that lasted nearly four years. ful in protecting the minds mission “Missionary Work,” a year. ■ The mother of the young and bodies of our precious

ENSIGN SEPTEMBER 2006 79 MAKING THE MOST FROM ONE NICARAGUAN TO ANOTHER OF THIS ISSUE Members’ willingness to SEPTEMBER 2006 share the gospel so others can taste its “beautiful fruit” is is supposed to work? Have Gaining Spiritual Strength helping the Church take root you wondered what you LISTENING FOR SPIRITUAL in Nicaragua. See page 48. can do as a parent to PROMPTINGS help your son achieve “The Lord will often influ- THE POWER OF EXAMPLE this important award? ence our thoughts, words, Quiet good deeds and See page 32. and actions even when we selfless service may seem have not sought specific like small things, but they For Teaching direction,” writes Margaret S. and Gospel Study can have a large impact on PRIESTHOOD AND Lifferth, First Counselor in the people you did not know RELIEF SOCIETY Primary General Presidency. were watching. See “I Tossed LESSONS See “Trust in the Lord Your Name Aside,” page 58. Are you a teacher in Relief Forever,” page 24. Society or in a Melchizedek IN THE SHADOW For Families Priesthood quorum or group? OF DEATH SHARING FAMILY HERITAGE Do you find yourself wonder- Facing cancer, “I am absolutely con- ing how to best use the the author has dis- vinced,” says Elder L. Tom Teachings of Presidents of the covered a new Perry of the Quorum of the Church manuals? For some kind of hope— Twelve Apostles, “that the helpful ideas, see “Learning “the hope of greatest refuge we will find in to Hear the Lord’s Voice,” peace and our life will be those wonder- page 12. strength; a hope ful, close associations we BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS of faith to be fulfilled; a hope, I Tossed Your Name Aside, p. 58 IN PRIMARY have with our immediate fam- ultimately, in the saving power Home Teachers, ily members.” To read more Do you have a child in of Jesus Christ.” See “Living Visiting Teachers about how we can strengthen your Primary class who seems in the Shadow of Death,” Find the monthly family members by sharing out of control? To learn how page 27. messages on pages 2 and 53. our family heritage, see one teacher handled this type page 8. of problem, see “He Took My Spreading the Gospel GOSPEL TOPICS WATCHMEN ON THE TOWER FAMILY HOME EVENING IDEAS Shoe!” page 16. Aaronic Love, 2, 7, 53 Earlier in his life, Elder Families from around the WOMEN IN THE Priesthood, 32 Marriage, 8 Gary J. Coleman of the Adversity, 18 Missionary Work, world share experiences that OLD TESTAMENT Seventy worked Appearance, 68 48, 68, 69, 73 have made family home Artists’ Articles of Faith, Motherhood, 63 as a watchman evening an unforgettable depictions 73 Obedience, 44, 64 in a lookout Arts, 38 Old Testament, experience in their lives. See teach of the tower in one Atonement, 63 38, 44 “Unforgettable Family Home strength of Children, 63 Parenthood, 18, of the U.S. Evenings,” page 60. righteous Commitment, 44 32, 73 women of national Compassion, 58 Prayer, 24, 69, 70 FOR DIVORCED forests. His Covenants, 44 Prophets, 64 SINGLE PARENTS the Old Death, 27 Relief Society, experiences Divorce, 18 “Do I wish this particular Testament. 53, 54 See page 38. have helped Duty to God, 32 Sacrifice, 54 adversity hadn’t happened? him under- Example, 48, 58 Service, 53, 54 Oh, yes. But it did, and I have Family Home Singles, 18 stand the Evening, 60, 73 Teaching, 12, 16, learned many things.” For importance Family, 2, 7, 8 63, 73 Women of the Fatherhood, 2, 7 Temples, 8 some wise counsel on raising Old Testament, of having children after divorce, see p. 38 Health, 72 Visiting Teaching, priesthood Holy Ghost, 12, 24 58 page 18. watchmen in Hope, 27 Women, 38 DUTY TO GOD the Lord’s Inspiration, 16, Worldwide 24, 70 Church, 48 Are you confused about towers. See Leadership, 7 Young Men, 32 how the Duty to God program page 64. Learning, 12, 63

80 records records emembered ” (Mosiah 1:3–4). Were it not for these plates, which contain Were or it were not possible that our father, Lehi, could have r or it were not possible that our father, by Glen S. Hopkinson by Glen S. Father Lehi, Of the scriptural record Nephi retrieved from Jerusalem, King Benjamin said: “ Of the scriptural record all these things, to have taught them his children [and they their children], except it were for the help of plates and these commandments, we must have suffered in ignorance. . F

MAY NOT BE COPIED od bless you children to have listening ears and understanding hearts. God bless you G mothers for the endless dimension of your love and for all the help you give the fathers of your children. God bless you fathers to be equal to your overwhelming responsibilities and to have a father’s special caring for each one under your protective arms.” See President James E. Faust, “The Father Who Cares,” p. 2. 4 26909 Sep 06 02269 09000 4