THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • JANUARY 2009

COVER STORY Witnesses of the Smith, p. 10 : An Apostle of Jesus Christ, p. 16 Places of , p. 40 , by Martin J. van Hemert Speaking of the Nauvoo Temple, the Lord says in Doctrine and Covenants 124, “And verily I say unto you, let this house be built unto my name, that I may reveal mine ordinances therein unto my people; “For I deign to reveal unto my church things which have been kept hid from before the foundation of the world, things that pertain to the dispensation of the fulness of times” (D&C 124:40–41). JANUARY 2009 Contents VOLUME 39 • NUMBER 1

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ON THE COVERS Front: I Saw a Light, by Jon McNaughton, MESSAGES FEATURE ARTICLES courtesy McNaughton Fine Art. Back: Martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum, FIRST PRESIDENCY Witnesses of the Prophet Joseph Smith by Gary Smith. MESSAGE 1 0 Modern and Apostles bear testimony of the Let Us Raise Our Voice prophet of the Restoration. 4 of Warning IN MEMORIAM PRESIDENT HENRY B. EYRING Joseph Smith: An Apostle A special insert on the Love, example, and 1 6 of Jesus Christ life and service of Elder testimony: those have been ELDER DENNIS B. NEUENSCHWANDER Joseph B. Wirthlin, keys whenever I have been Joseph Smith’s apostolic testimony who passed away blessed to hear and then was borne of experience, divine on December 1, 2008, heed the warning of a command, and instruction. will be included in next servant of the Lord. month’s issue of the Drawn to the Temple magazine. VISITING TEACHING 2 3 MICHAEL R. MORRIS MESSAGE As a child, Aric Finucane was curious about the Washington D.C. Temple. When he joined the Church as an adult, he Stand Strong and became determined to receive his there. 6 1 Immovable in Faith 31 62

Faith to Ford the River Left with a Violin and a Hymnbook 2 6 C. OLSON 5 8 LINDA REHART Rafael had crossed the river every day for 12 years, The re had consumed nearly everything. What were we but today was different. going to do?

Peaches, Pruning, and Spiritual Progress Gardenias in January 3 1 ROBIN RUFF VAN WAGENEN 6 0 WENDY FOUTZ MCKINNEY I should have pruned our peach tree before the winds came. I didn’t know that Anita loved gardenias. But Heavenly Father knew. My Guilt Was Swept Away 3 4 GEORGE D. DURRANT Bipolar Disorder: My Lessons in Love, Hope, My family lines were traced back as far as possible; 6 2 and Peace I was certain I could do no more. NAME WITHHELD Receiving the diagnosis was devastating. What kind of Putting My Hand in the Lord’s future would I have? 3 6 DIANE TERRY WOOLF I came to know that God loves me, that I have a to perform, and that I can trust in His power and in DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL? His plan for me. That is the power of adversity. How have you been blessed by effective home teachers? What about them made a difference in your life? Was it a lesson they taught? Service they Doctrine and Covenants Revealed performed? Concern they showed? Perhaps it was that they consistently 4 0 KENNETH R. MAYS visited you every month. How did their commitment to home teaching View a few of the sites where sections of the Doctrine and make a difference for you? Please share your story with us. Submissions Covenants were revealed. should be between 500 and 2,000 words. Please label your manuscript “home teachers” and submit it by February 29, 2009. You can nd this and other calls for articles online at http://ensign.lds. Enriching Your Study of the Doctrine and org . Ensign Magazine Writers’ Guidelines are posted on the same page 4 6 Covenants under “Resources.” THE SUNDAY SCHOOL GENERAL PRESIDENCY Send submissions to [email protected] or Ensign Editorial, 50 E. You can get more out of Sunday School. Here’s how. North Temple Street, Room 2420, , UT 84150-3220, USA. Include your name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, ward Nourishing the Soul through Institute (or branch), and stake (or district). Because of the volume of submis- 5 4 Students who sacri ce to attend institute discover how sions we receive, we cannot acknowledge receipt. Authors whose work is much the Savior loves them and wants to bless them. selected for publication will be noti ed. If you would like your manuscript, photos, art, or other material returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

THE ENSIGN CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT http://ensign.lds.org 2 JANUARY 2009 VOLUME 39 • NUMBER 1

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson Editor: Spencer J. Condie Advisers: Gary J. Coleman, Kenneth Johnson, Yoshihiko Kikuchi, W. Douglas Shumway Managing Director: David L. Frischknecht Editorial Director: Victor D. Cave Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg Managing Editor: Don L. Searle Assistant Managing Editor: LaRene Porter Gaunt Senior Editors: Matthew D. Flitton, Larry Hiller, Michael R. Morris, Judith M. 54 50 Paller, Joshua J. Perkey Assistant Editor: Melissa Merrill Editorial Staff: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, Jenifer L. Greenwood, R. Val Johnson, USING THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS GOSPEL TOPICS IN THIS ISSUE Adam C. Olson, Laurel Teuscher Enhance your study. Pages Adversity, 36, 58, Joseph Smith, Editorial Intern: Meagan D. Lake Senior Secretary: Christy Banz 46–53 highlight the Doctrine LESSONS FROM 60, 62 10, 16 THE DOCTRINE AND Agency, 28 Journals, 68 Managing Art Director: and Covenants, the 2009 course Atonement, 72 Knowledge, 54 M. M. Kawasaki COVENANTS Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen of Gospel Doctrine study. , Learning, 36 Senior Designers: C. Kimball Bott, You can nd additional guides 10 Love, 4, 62 Colleen Hinckley Con dence in the Children, 68 Missionary work, Design and Production Staff: online at LDS.org. Select 2 8 Presence of God Church history, 4, 50 Cali R. Arroyo, Collette Nebeker Aune, Gospel Library, then Lessons, ELDER MICHAEL JOHN U. TEH 40, 50 Music, 58, 68 Thomas S. Child, Eric P. Johnsen, Commitment, 28 Obedience, 68 Scott M. Mooy, Jane Ann Peters, then Sunday School. What can we do to gain Scott Van Kampen God’s trust? Conversion, 23 Parenthood, 4, Share your testimony of Death, 36, 60 31, 68 Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick the Prophet Joseph Smith. Example, 4 Peace, 62, 72 Distribution Director: Randy J. Benson Pages 10–22 include powerful Treasuring the Faith, 4, 23, 28, Perfection, 62 © 2009 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. Doctrine and 34, 36 Prayer, 71 All rights reserved. The Ensign (ISSN witnesses of the mission of the 5 0 Family, 62 Preparation, 68 0884-1136) is published monthly by The Covenants Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Prophet Joseph Smith. How is ELDER STEVEN E. SNOW Family History, 34 Priesthood, 62, 71 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, your life different from what The Doctrine and Family Home Primary, 68 UT 84150-3220, USA. Periodicals Postage Evening, 68 Prophets, 4, Paid at Salt Lake City, . it might otherwise be because Covenants—marvelous First Vision, 10 50, 68 To subscribe: By phone, call of the work of the Prophet truths, inspired counsel. Friends, 62 Repentance, 31, 1-800-537-5971 to order using Visa, of the Restoration? Consider Goals, 68 70, 72 MasterCard, Discover Card, or American RANDOM SAMPLER Gospel, 46 Resurrection, 60 Express. Online, go to ldscatalog.com. By sharing the articles—and your Heavenly Father, 62 Revelation, 50, 68 mail, send $10 U.S. check or money order to Helping children Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt testimony—with a friend. 6 8 Holy Ghost, 54, 60 Self-reliance, 46 learn hymns, setting Home Storage, 68 Scripture, 50 Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Sign up for institute. Young provident living goals, and Hope, 36, 62 Teaching, 46 To change address: Send both old and adults from around the world Hymns, 68 Temples, 23 new address information to Distribution keeping a more meaningful Services at the above address. Please allow share the blessings they’ve journal. Illness, 60, 62 Testimony, 4, 60 days for changes to take effect. Institute, 54 16, 54 experienced because they have Jesus Christ, 4, Word of Wisdom, Text and visual material in the Ensign may LATTER-DAY SAINT 16, 50, 62, 72 70 be copied for incidental, noncommercial attended institute in “Nourishing church or home use. Visual material may not the Soul through Institute” 7 0 VOICES be copied if restrictions are indicated in the Latter-day Saints nd peace credit line with the artwork. Copyright (page 54). To nd a class near COMING and hope through the Savior questions should be addressed to Intellectual you, visit www.ldsces.org, or IN FEBRUARY Property Office, 50 E. North Temple Street, and His Atonement. Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3011; e-mail: talk to your bishop or branch Look for articles on: [email protected]. president. NEWS OF THE • Functional families POSTMASTER: Send address changes to CHURCH • The gift of adoption Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt 7 4 Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. • Helping new converts Canada Post Information: Publication stay strong Agreement #40017431

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 3

First Presidency Message First Presidency Message Let Us Raise Our Voice of Warning

By President Henry B. Eyring First Counselor in the First Presidency ecause the Lord is kind, He calls ser- with so few words. As I remember them, they vants to warn people of danger. That were: “Oh, I suppose you could do that. But Bcall to warn is made harder and more the choice is yours.” The only warning was in important by the fact that the warnings of the emphasis she put on the words could and most worth are about dangers that people choice. Yet that was enough for me. don’t yet think are real. Think of Jonah. He Her power to warn with so few words fled at first from the Lord’s call to warn the sprang from three things I knew about her. people of Nineveh who were blinded to the First, I knew she loved me. Second, I knew danger by sin. He knew that wicked people she had faced similar situations and had been through the ages have rejected prophets and blessed by making the right choice. And third, sometimes killed them. Yet when Jonah went she had conveyed to me her sure testimony The Lord’s words forward with faith, the Lord blessed him with that the choice I had to make was so impor- are true for the safety and success. tant that the Lord would tell me what to do if missionaries and We can also learn from our experiences as I asked Him. Love, example, and testimony: for all of us: “And parents and as children. Those of us who are those were keys that day, and they have been now, if your joy will parents have felt the anxiety of sensing dan- whenever I have been blessed to hear and then be great with one ger our children cannot yet see. Few prayers heed the warning of a servant of the Lord. soul that you have are so fervent as those of a parent asking to Our ability to touch others with our warn- brought unto me know how to touch a child to move away ing voice matters to all who are covenant into the kingdom from danger. Most of us have felt the blessing disciples of Jesus Christ. Here is the charge of my Father, how of hearing and heeding the warning voice of given to each of the members of The Church great will be your a parent. of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “Behold, I joy if you should I can still remember my mother speaking sent you out to testify and warn the people, bring many souls softly to me one Saturday afternoon when, as and it becometh every man who hath been unto me!” a little boy, I asked her for permission to do warned to warn his neighbor” (D&C 88:81). something I thought was perfectly reasonable and which she knew was dangerous. I still Our Duty to Warn am amazed at the power she was granted, The duty to warn our neighbor falls on

d S toker by Davi Photo illustrations I believe from the Lord, to turn me around all of us who have accepted the covenant

ensign January 2009 5 hen you of baptism. We are to talk with nonmember The missionaries will help and encour- invite friends and relatives about the gospel. Our age us, but whether such moments at the Wothers to purpose is to invite them to be taught by the baptismal font and in the come more choose to be taught full-time missionaries, who are called and set often will depend largely on how we see our by the missionaries,­ apart to teach. When a person has chosen to charge and what we choose to do about it. you will be able to accept our invitation to be taught, a “refer- The Lord would not use the word warn if bear testimony that ral” of great promise has been created, one there was no danger. Yet not many people they will teach the far more likely to enter the waters of baptism we know sense it. They have learned to truth and that they and then to remain faithful. ignore the increasing evidence that society offer the choices As a member of the Church, you can is unraveling and that their lives and family which lead to expect that the full-time or the ward or branch lack the peace they once thought was pos- happiness. missionaries will ask for the opportunity to sible. That willingness to ignore the signs help you make a list of people with whom of danger can make it easy for you to think: you could share the gospel. The missionaries “Why should I speak to anyone about the may suggest you think of relatives, neighbors, gospel who seems content? What danger is and acquaintances. They may ask you to set a there to them or to me if I do or say nothing?” date by which you will try to have the person Well, the danger may be hard to see, but it or family prepared to be taught by the mis- is real, both for them and for us. For instance, sionaries. I’ve had that experience. Because at some moment in the world to come, every­ we in our family accepted that invitation from one you met in this life will know what you the missionaries, I was blessed to perform the know now. They will know that the only way baptism of a widow in her 80s, taught by sister to live forever in association with our families missionaries. and in the presence of our Heavenly Father When I placed my hands on her head to and His Son, Jesus Christ, is to choose to confirm her a member of the Church, I felt enter into the gate by baptism at the hands impressed to say that her choice to be bap- of those with authority from God. They will tized would bless generations of her family, know that the only way families can be after and before her. Even after she passed together forever is to accept and keep sacred away, I was able to be in the temple with covenants offered in the temples of God on her son as he was sealed to her. this earth. They will know that you knew. You may have had such experiences And they will remember whether you offered with people you have invited to be taught, them what someone had offered you. and so you know that few moments in life It’s easy to say, “The time isn’t right.” But are sweeter. The Lord’s words are true for there is danger in procrastination. Years ago the missionaries and for all of us: “And I worked for a man in California. He hired now, if your joy will be great with one soul me; he was kind to me; he seemed to regard that you have brought unto me into the me highly. I may have been the only Latter- kingdom of my Father, how great will be day Saint he ever knew well. I don’t know your joy if you should bring many souls all the reasons I found to wait for a better unto me!” (D&C 18:16). moment to talk with him about the gospel. I

6 just remember my feeling of sorrow when I learned, after who spent a number of nights putting in landscaping. I he had retired and I lived far away, that he and his wife had remember the last night, standing next to the husband of been killed in a late-night drive to their home in Carmel, the family as we finished. He surveyed our work and said California. He loved his wife. He loved his children. He had to us standing nearby, “This is the third yard you Mormons loved his parents. He loved his grandchildren, and he will have put in for us, and I think this is the best.” And then he love their children and will want to be with them forever. quietly but firmly told me of the great satisfaction he got Now, I don’t know how the crowds will be handled in from membership in his own church, a conversation we the world to come. But I suppose that I will meet him, that had often in the years he lived there. he will look into my eyes, and that I will see in them the In all that time, the acts of kindness extended to him question: “Hal, you knew. Why didn’t you tell me?” and his family never ceased, because the neighbors really When I think of him and when I think of the widow came to love them. One evening I came home to see a I baptized and her family who will now be sealed to her truck in their driveway. I had been told they were mov- and to each other, I want to do better. I want to increase ing to another state. I approached to see if I could help. I my power to invite people to be taught. With that desire didn’t recognize the man I saw loading household things and with faith that God will help us, we will do better. into the truck. He said quietly as I drew near, “Hello, Brother Eyring.” I hadn’t recognized him because he was Love Comes First the son, now grown older, who had lived there, married, Love always comes first. A single act of kindness will and moved away. And because of the love of many for seldom be enough. The Lord described the love we must him, he was now a baptized member of the Church. I feel, and that those we invite must recognize in us, with don’t know the end of that story because it will have no words like these: “Charity suffereth long,” and it “beareth end. But I know that it began with love. all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth Second, we will need to be better examples of what we all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4, 7). invite others to do. In a darkening world, this command of I’ve seen what “suffereth long” and “endureth all things” the Savior will become more important: “Let your light so mean. A family moved into a house near us. The home shine before men, that they may see your good works, and was new, so I was part of the crew of Latter-day Saints glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

ensign January 2009 7 Most of us are modest enough to think that our small connected. There are some choices all children of our candle of example might be too dim to be noticed. But Heavenly Father must make to qualify for a testimony you and your family are watched more than you may of spiritual truths, and once we know a spiritual truth, realize. Some time ago I had the chance to attend and we must choose whether we will conform our lives to it. speak at meetings with nearly 300 ministers and leaders When we bear testimony of truth to our loved ones or of other churches. I visited alone with as many as I could. friends, we must convey to them the choices they must I asked them why they had been so attentive to my mes- make once they know that truth for themselves. There sage, which was to recount the origins of the Church, to are two important examples: inviting someone to read tell of the young Joseph Smith’s First Vision and of living the Book of Mormon and inviting someone to agree to prophets. In every case, they gave essentially the same be taught by the missionaries. answer. They told a story of a person or a family—Church For us to know that the Book of Mormon is true, we members they knew. Often I heard, “They were the fin- must read it and make the choice found in Moroni: pray est family I have ever known.” Often they spoke of some to know if it is true (see Moroni 10:3–5). When we have community effort or disaster response in which Church done that, we can testify from personal experience to our members worked in a remarkable way. friends that they can make that choice and know the same The people I met at those meetings could not yet rec- truth. When they know the Book of Mormon is the word ognize the truth in the doctrine, but they had seen its fruit of God, they will face another choice: whether to accept in members’ lives, and so they were ready to listen. They your invitation to be taught by the missionaries. To make were ready to hear truths of the Restoration—that families that invitation with testimony, you will need to know that can be sealed forever and that the gospel can change our the missionaries are called as servants of God. very natures. They were ready because of your examples. You can gain that testimony by choosing to invite The third thing we must do better is to invite with the missionaries into your home to teach your family or testimony. Love and example will open the way, but we friends. Missionaries will welcome the opportunity. When still have to open our mouths and bear testimony. We are you sit with them as they teach, as I have, you will know helped by a simple fact: truth and choice are inseparably they are inspired with power beyond their years and their

Ideas for Home Teachers fter prayerfully studying this message, share it using a neighbors. End by reading President Eyring’s testimony in the Amethod that encourages the participation of those you teach. final paragraph. Following are some examples: 2. Consider bringing some sweets or cookies for the fam- 1. Create three keys made of paper, and label them “Love,” ily you are visiting. Place them where all can see, but don’t “Example,” and “Testimony.” Tell President Eyring’s story about offer to share them. Tell the story of the man in California his mother. Display the keys, and ask the family how these for whom President Eyring worked. Discuss how President three keys worked in the story. Using examples from the article, Eyring felt after learning of his death. Ask the family how they explain the importance of warning our neighbors. Ask the family would feel if you left without sharing the sweets with them. to comment on how the three keys can help us in warning our Discuss ways we can share the gospel with others.

8 education. Then, when you invite others to even when you did not respond, choose to be taught by the missionaries, you as those you approach with the will be able to bear testimony that they will gospel may not respond. Time teach the truth and that they offer the choices after time He has invited you to be which lead to happiness. taught by His servants. You may not have recognized that in the An Assurance visits of home teachers and visiting Perhaps some of us may find it hard to teachers or in a bishop’s phone call, believe that we love enough or that our lives but those were His invitations to be are good enough or that our power to testify helped and taught. And the Lord is sufficient for our invitations to our neigh- has always made consequences bors to be accepted. But the Lord knew we clear and then allowed us to might feel that way. Listen to His encouraging choose for ourselves. words, which He directed to be placed at the What the Lord’s servant Lehi taught his e must first of the Doctrine and Covenants, when He sons has always been true for all of us: “And have the gave us our charge: “And the voice of warn- now, my sons, I would that ye should look Wfaith that ing shall be unto all people, by the mouths to the great Mediator, and hearken unto his we can love enough of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these great commandments; and be faithful unto and that the gospel last days” (D&C 1:4). his words, and choose eternal life, according has touched our lives And then listen to His description of the to the will of his Holy Spirit” (2 Nephi 2:28). enough that our qualifications of those disciples—of us: “The And then from Jacob we receive this invitation to choose weak things of the world shall come forth encouragement to meet our obligation to can be heard as and break down the mighty and strong ones” testify, as we must, that choosing to be taught coming from the (D&C 1:19). by the missionaries is choosing to enter the Master whose And then later: “That the fulness of my gos- way toward eternal life, the greatest of all invitation it is. pel might be proclaimed by the weak and the the gifts of God: “Therefore, cheer up your simple unto the ends of the world” (D&C 1:23). hearts, and remember that ye are free to And then again: “And inasmuch as they act for yourselves—to choose the way of [are] humble they might be made strong, and everlasting death or the way of eternal life” blessed from on high” (D&C 1:28). (2 Nephi 10:23). That assurance was given to the first mis- I testify that only accepting and living the sionaries in the Church and to missionaries restored gospel of Jesus Christ brings the today. But it is given to all of us as well. We peace the Lord promised in this life and the must have the faith that we can love enough hope of eternal life in the world to come. I and that the gospel has touched our lives testify that we have been given the privilege enough that our invitation to choose can and the obligation to offer the truth and the be heard as coming from the Master whose choices which lead to those blessings to invitation it is. our Heavenly Father’s children, who are our His is the perfect example for what we are brothers and our sisters. Jesus is the Christ,

Detail from He Is R i sen, by Del Parson Detail to do. You have felt His love and His caring He lives, and this is His work. ◼

visiting teaching message- ensign January 2009 9 Latter-Day Saint voices-

Random Sampler Witnesses OF THE PROPHET JOSEPH SMITH

he prophet of the Restoration, Joseph Smith, Thas blessed countless lives through his teachings and his example. Here, members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles bear tes- timony of the prophet and share what they have gained—and what we can gain—from seeking a per- sonal witness of him.

10 A M o d e l G r a t i t u d e An Example of Obedience and Love of Seeking and Courage President and Receiving President Henry B. Eyring, President Thomas S. Monson First Counselor Dieter F. Uchtdorf, in the First Second Counselor Presidency in the First Presidency

“When but 14 years of age, this “The Prophet Joseph Smith is an “The young Prophet Joseph Smith courageous young man [ Joseph example and a teacher of enduring . . . was a teenager when he studied Smith] entered a grove of trees, which well in faith. I do not worship him, the scriptures. During this time a later would be called sacred, and but I thank and love him as the Lord’s multitude of unanswered questions received an answer to his sincere prophet of the Restoration. He has arose. He wondered, he pondered, he prayer. helped me pray with the intent to obey. asked, and he received answers. “There followed for Joseph unre- I am better able to feast in the word “Build your testimony the same lenting persecution as he related to and the love of God. Because of him I way: Study the scriptures, increase others the account of the glorious feel the Holy Ghost more often in the your knowledge of the gospel, search vision he received in that grove. moments when I try to build the faith for answers in the scriptures. If you Although he was ridiculed and of a person in the Lord’s kingdom. And have doubts or fears, invest the time scorned, he stood rm. Said he, ‘I had because of what I know of the Prophet and energy to nd the answers in the seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew Joseph and the scriptures which were scriptures and in the written words of that God knew it, and I could not revealed through him, I more often feel our prophets. Contemplate, meditate, deny it, neither dared I do it’ ( Joseph the love of God for His children and of ponder, and pray. Smith—History 1:25 ). His for me when I reach down to lift “Go to our Heavenly Father in “Step by step, facing opposition someone up” (“An Enduring Testimony prayer; communicate with Him daily. at nearly every turn and yet always of the Mission of the Prophet Joseph,” Draw close to Him, and He will draw guided by the hand of the Lord, Ensign, Nov. 2003, 92). close to you. Ask about your studies Joseph organized The Church of Jesus of the scriptures, about your feel- Christ of Latter-day Saints. He proved ings and your questions, and He will courageous in all that he did. answer. He is waiting, He is real, and “Toward the end of his life, as he He is there. Use the gift of the Holy was led away with his brother Hyrum Ghost. Believe in the power of prayer. to , he bravely faced “It takes effort and time. Be patient; what he undoubtedly knew lay ahead it is worth it. You can do it. You are

BY WALTER RANE BY WALTER THE DESIRES OF MY HEART, NAUGHTON; RIGHT: for him, and he sealed his testimony not alone in this; others went through with his blood. this before” (“Making Choices for “As we face life’s tests, may we Eternity,” Ensign, Oct. 2002, 28–29). ever emulate that undaunted courage epitomized by the Prophet Joseph Smith” (“They Marked the Path to

LET HIM ASK OF GOD, BY JON M LEFT: Follow,” Ensign, Oct. 2007, 7–8).

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 11 A Walk with Trust in The Reality the Prophet the Lord of God’s Love Joseph Smith Elder L. Tom Elder Russell M. President Boyd K. Perry of the Nelson of the Packer, President Quorum of the Quorum of the of the Quorum Twelve Apostles Twelve Apostles of the Twelve Apostles

“At times in my life, during some “The Lord needed a strong, vigor- “God the Father and His Son, Jesus deliberate and all too brief moments ous young man who would be teach- Christ, literally appeared to the Prophet of reverie, study, and research, I have able. He needed someone he could Joseph Smith in April 1820. While this walked with the Prophet Joseph mold into the leader who could bring may be relatively unknown in the annals Smith—starting with him in Sharon, forth the restoration of the gospel. of history, yet it constituted an epochal Windsor County, Vermont, thence on to The one foreordained for this great event in the history of humanity—a Palmyra, to Kirtland, to Far West, later assignment was Joseph Smith. Out profound demonstration of the love of to Liberty, and ultimately from Nauvoo of weak things of the earth, the Lord God for all of His children” (“Combating to Carthage. It was thrilling to journey created one with power and strength. Spiritual Drift—Our Global Pandemic,” through the pages of early Church his- Few prophets have come from more Ensign, Nov. 1993, 104). tory, the remarkably well-documented humble beginnings than those of the biography of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Prophet Joseph Smith. . . . Joseph “I commend this practice to all who Smith developed a great esteem and honor this great man and reliance on the Lord, trust- prophet. In this way we can see him ing in him and gaining in moments of despair, but also in exceptional spiritual moments of exaltation. We can stand strength so he could with him in an hour of triumph and yet use the gifts the Lord see him weeping when he was bereft of would give to him to loved ones, or in times of deep sorrow organize the Church” when friends turned from him—even (“By the Hands of His his brethren, his close counselors. We Prophets,” Ensign, Aug. can catch moments when he was jump- 1998, 50, 51). ing, or wrestling, or pulling sticks in good-natured fun; or join him where, as the master of an elegant home, he was sought out by the great of the world; or see him in a general’s uniform as a pub- lic figure, even a presidential candidate. “Looking a little deeper into his coun- tenance and his activities, we can see him, for instance, step forth in steadfast- ness to rebuke and correct, and at times see him humbled and corrected by the Almighty in the work he was assigned to do” (Things of the Soul [1996], 34–35).

12 A Reliance on Peace and Never Spiritual Gifts Happiness Giving Up Elder Dallin H. in This Life Elder Joseph B. Oaks of the Wirthlin of the Elder M. Russell Quorum of the Quorum of the Ballard of the Twelve Apostles Twelve Apostles Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

“Overarching the Prophet Joseph’s “Those who have an unwaver- “The answer to [ Joseph’s] prayer entire ministry was his comparative ing testimony that Joseph Smith is filled him with light and direction. Our youth, his superficial formal educa- a prophet of the living God know Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son tion, and his incredibly rapid acqui- that he, in fact, received revelation appeared to him. Their direction swept sition of knowledge and maturity. from God. They know that those away the thick darkness that had seized . . . The Prophet Joseph had no role contain all the instruction him and threatened to destroy him. It models from whom he could learn necessary for us to find peace and forever swept away his confusion. how to be a prophet and leader of happiness in this life” (“What Came “From that moment until his martyr- the Lord’s people. He learned from from Kirtland,” in Brigham Young dom nearly a quarter of a century later, heavenly messengers and from the University 1994–95 Devotionals and Joseph Smith committed himself to the harvest of his unique spiritual gifts. Fireside Speeches [1995], 50). path shown him by the Father and the He had to rely on associates who Son. Consider how painful his days had no role models either. They were. Consider the suffering and the struggled and learned together, and persecution he had to endure. Yet he the Prophet’s growth was extremely continued, step by step, never giving rapid” (“Joseph, the Man and the up, never doubting that if he only did Prophet,” Ensign, May 1996, 71, 72). what he could, his Heavenly Father would make up the rest” (“One Step after Another,” Ensign, Nov. 2001, 27). by david lindsley prophet of the lord, by david left: smith; far nauvoo, by gary healing at left:

ensign JANUARY 2009 13 A Book A Pattern A Knowledge of Truths for Gaining of Revelation Elder Richard G. Testimony Elder Jeffrey R. Scott of the Elder Robert D. Holland of the Quorum of the Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Twelve Apostles

“Try reading the Book of Mormon “Gaining a testimony and becom- “Are the heavens open? Does God because you want to, not because ing converted begins with study and reveal His will to prophets and apostles you have to. Discover for yourself prayer, then living the gospel with as in days of old? That they are and that it is true. As you read each page patience and persistence and inviting that He does is the unflinching declara- ask, ‘Could any man have written this and waiting upon the Spirit. The life tion of The Church of Jesus Christ of book or did it come as Joseph Smith of Joseph Smith and the pattern of the Latter-day Saints to all the world. And in testified?’ Apply the teachings you Restoration are excellent examples of that declaration lies the significance of learn. They will fortify you against this process. . . . Like Joseph, many Joseph Smith, the Prophet. . . . the evil of Satan. Follow Moroni’s of us find ourselves seeking the light “His life asked and answered the counsel. Sincerely ask God the of truth. Just as the world was pre- question ‘Do you believe God speaks Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, pared for the Restoration, each of us to man?’ In all else that he accom- with real intent, if the teachings of is prepared to receive the light of the plished in his brief 38 and a half years, the Book of Mormon are true (see gospel in our own lives” (“Receiving a Joseph left us above all else the reso- Moroni 10:3–5). Ask with a desire to Testimony of the Restored Gospel of lute legacy of divine revelation—not receive a confirmation personally, Jesus Christ,” Ensign, Nov. 2003, 28–29). a single, isolated revelation without nothing doubting. There has to be evidence or consequence . . . but an explanation of that book you can specific, documented, ongoing direc- hold in your hand. I know that you tions from God” (“Prophets, Seers, and can receive a spiritual confirmation Revelators,” Ensign, Nov. 2004, 8). that it is true. You will then know that Jesus Christ lives, that Joseph Smith was and is a prophet, and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s Church. . . . You will confirm that the Savior guides AGE : joseph in nauvoo, 1840, by theodore gorka His Church through a living prophet. These truths will become a foundation for your productive life” (“Realize Your Full Potential,” Ensign, Nov. 2003, 42–43). by liz lemon swindle; far right THIS P joseph, by liz lemon swindle; far my servant right:

14 Lessons in A Foundation A Sure Pondering for Decisions Knowledge the Scriptures Elder Quentin L. of the Savior Elder David A. Cook of the Elder D. Todd Bednar of the Quorum of the Christofferson Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Quorum Twelve Apostles of the Twelve Apostles

“The Prophet Joseph Smith provided “The foundation for every important “The Prophet Joseph could and did an important guideline about ponder- decision and choice you will make is attest that Jesus lives, a resurrected, ing and reflecting upon the scriptures. your testimony of Jesus Christ and the glorified person, because he saw Him He taught: ‘I have a key by which I restoration of His gospel through the and conversed with Him. He could understand the scriptures. I enquire, Prophet Joseph Smith. The Book of and did attest that He is the very Son of what was the question which drew out Mormon is an essential element of God and that through His Atonement, the answer, or caused Jesus to utter the that testimony” (“Strengthen Faith as we are redeemed, ‘begotten sons and parable?’ (History of the Church, 5:261). You Seek Knowledge,” New Era, Sept. daughters unto God’ (D&C 76:24) Thus, striving to understand the ques- 2008, 2, 4). because God the Father personally tion that preceded a particular revela- declared it to Joseph. Joseph translated tion, parable, or episode can assist us and published the most powerful and in obtaining a deeper understanding persuasive written testament of Jesus of the scriptures” (“Because We Have Christ in existence. And finally, the Them before Our Eyes,” New Era, Apr. Prophet sealed this testimony with his 2006, 6). own blood as a martyr” (BYU– commencement address, June 18, 2005, available at www.byuh.edu under “devotionals”). ◼ by gary smith of joseph and hyrum, by gary martyrdom

Helps for Home Evening 1. Display a picture of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Read the introduction of the article. As you read the testimonies, have your family guess who the author is. Invite family members to share their thoughts. 2. Show a picture of Joseph Smith. For families with young children, tell the story of the First Vision found in Joseph Smith—History 11–20. Conclude by bearing testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Summarize a few of the testimonies, and have your children draw a picture of an event in Joseph Smith’s life. Combine the pictures in a booklet, and have it available for family members to review.

ensign JANUARY 2009 15

Joseph Smith An Apostle of Jesus Christ By Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander Of the Seventy n the Doctrine and Covenants we read concerning Christ, there could be no Apostle. that Joseph Smith was “called of God, and Such testimonies are born of experience, Iordained an apostle of Jesus Christ” (D&C divine command, and instruction. For exam- 20:2). The call of an Apostle is first to wit- ple, Luke writes that Christ showed Himself ness or testify of Jesus Christ. to the Apostles “alive after his passion . . . prophets testified of His coming. The New being seen of them forty days, and speaking Testament Apostles bore personal witness of the things pertaining to the kingdom of of Christ’s being and of the absolute reality God” (Acts 1:3). of His Resurrection. This apostolic witness How does the Prophet Joseph Smith was the basis of their teaching. “Ye shall be fit into these apostolic requirements? The witnesses unto me” (Acts 1:8) was Jesus’s answer is “Perfectly.” The Prophet Joseph instruction to the original Twelve. Peter testi- Smith was called of fied on the day of Pentecost to the Jews who The First Vision God as a witness of had gathered “out of every nation” (Acts 2:5) Joseph Smith’s apostolic instruction began Christ’s reality and that “this Jesus hath God raised up, whereof in 1820. Pondering the questions of religion, Resurrection and of we all are witnesses” (Acts 2:32). Similarly, he soon found that there was no way to His redemptive and Paul wrote to the Corinthians that Jesus “was reason or argue one’s opinion to an authori- saving power. seen of me also” (1 Corinthians 15:8). The tative conclusion concerning the correctness sure witness of Christ’s being and the reality of the various churches or their doctrines. of His Resurrection is the first pillar of apos- tolic testimony. The second pillar is centered on the Savior’s redemptive and saving power. Peter teaches that to the Lord “give all the Prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins” (Acts 10:43). Without these twin pillars of testimony courtesy of the C ommunity hrist Archives, I ndependence, M issouri; scene from hurch film T he restoration Joseph S mith Jr., courtesy

ENSIGN January 2009 17 oseph’s ques- Short of a divine manifestation, young Joseph mean to him. Joseph’s vision was at first an tions on could add only one more opinion to the intensely personal experience—an answer Jreligion were already existing “war of words and tumult of to a specific question. Over time, however, answered by the opinions” ( Joseph Smith—History 1:10). But illuminated by additional experience and personal and physi- Joseph’s questions on religion were answered instruction, it became the founding revela- cal manifestation by the personal and physical manifestation tion of the Restoration. of God the Father of God the Father and His divine and living As apostolic as this manifestation of and His divine and Son, Jesus Christ—an experience referred to Christ’s being, existence, and Resurrection living Son, Jesus as the First Vision. was to Joseph Smith, it was not the only Christ. Like that of the original Apostles, thing Jesus wanted to teach him. The boy Joseph’s experience with Deity was direct Joseph’s first lesson arose from the mani- and personal. There was no need for the festation of Christ’s absolute, omnipotent, opinion of others or the delibera- and divine power. Joseph learned firsthand tions of a council to define what at least one meaning of the redeeming he saw or what it came to and saving power of Christ when he rt rt A istory and and istory H hurch hurch C of of m ane, courtesy of Museu of courtesy ane, R by Walter Walter by , t The Desires of My H ear

18 prayed in the grove. As he began to pray, “Thick dark- The boy Joseph went into the grove seeking wisdom, ness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a and wisdom he received. His apostolic instruction had time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction” ( Joseph begun. Among the great apostolic lessons of this First Smith—History 1:15). With every bit of energy Joseph Vision were both the physical nature of the Savior and had, he began to call upon God to deliver him from the Heavenly Father and the initial and fundamental les- grasp of this enemy. sons relating to Their power—each a pillar of apostolic “At the very moment when I was ready to sink into testimony. despair and abandon myself to destruction . . . , I saw a pillar of light. . . . The Book of Mormon “It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered Joseph Smith’s early apostolic instruction continued from the enemy which held me bound” ( Joseph Smith— with his translation of the Book of Mormon. The Book of History 1:16–17). Mormon gave Joseph access to “the fulness of the everlast- Joseph Smith’s confrontation with the adversary is ing Gospel” ( Joseph Smith—History 1:34), principles that reminiscent of an experience Moses had, about which the were necessary to understand even prior to the organiza- Prophet would learn some few years later. Unlike the boy tion of the Church. The Prophet was introduced to numer- Joseph, however, Moses saw God’s greatness first and then ous “plain and most precious” (1 Nephi 13:26) prophetic was confronted with the power of the adversary before and apostolic testimonies regarding the Savior, all of which being delivered from his influence. (See Moses 1.) served as models for him. The difference in the order of events is significant. Indeed, the Book of Mormon prophets employ over Moses was already far into maturity and had much knowl- 100 titles in their teachings of Christ, each of which edge and influence prior to this event. By displaying His helped Joseph understand the Savior’s divine role. 1 By magnificent power to Moses before he faced the adver- virtue of these teachings, Joseph Smith became intimately sary, the Lord helped Moses put his life into perspective. acquainted with ancient prophets, giving him insight into After experiencing God’s glory, Moses said, “Now, for this the divine purpose of his responsibilities. cause I know that man is nothing, which thing I never had The Book of Mormon illuminates the universality of supposed” (Moses 1:10). This incident enabled Moses to Christ’s Atonement. The Savior’s holy sacrifice is not con- withstand the temptations of the adversary that followed. fined to the borders of the Holy Land of His day or even Joseph Smith, on the other hand, was an inexperienced restricted to the apostolic world of the original Twelve. young man, who in his lifetime would repeatedly face The Atonement encompasses all of God’s creations—past, adversarial power and the overwhelming problems it present, and future. What an impression Jacob’s teaching brings. By facing the adversary first, then being saved from of the “infinite atonement” (2 Nephi 9:7) must have made his assault by the appearance of the Father and the Son, on the mind of young Joseph, especially in contrast to Joseph learned this indelible lesson: as great as the power Christian teachings at the time. of evil might be, it must always withdraw with the appear- The Book of Mormon also introduces the universal- ance of righteousness. ity of the Resurrection and other doctrines relating to it. This lesson was critical in Joseph’s apostolic education. Discourses on this doctrine by Lehi, Jacob, King Benjamin, He needed this knowledge not only because of the per- Abinadi, Alma, Amulek, Samuel the Lamanite, and Moroni sonal trials that lay ahead of him but also because of the are all rich sources of instruction. overwhelming opposition he would face in founding and During the translation of the Book of Mormon, the directing the Church. Prophet received additional valuable personal instruction

ENSIGN January 2009 19 he Book of concerning the redemptive and saving power Then came relief and the apostolic lesson. Mormon is of Christ. In 1828 Martin Harris persuaded The Lord told Joseph: Tthe “keystone Joseph to lend him the first 116 pages of the “The works, and the designs, and the pur- of our religion” Book of Mormon manuscript. When Martin poses of God cannot be frustrated, neither because it contains Harris lost those pages, the Prophet felt an can they come to naught. . . . so many prophetic enormous despair. 2 His mother, Lucy Mack “For although a man may have many rev- testimonies of Christ Smith, recorded that Joseph exclaimed: “Oh, elations, and have power to do many mighty and stands as a tan- my God! . . . All is lost! all is lost! What shall works, yet if he boasts in his own strength, gible witness of the I do? I have sinned—it is I who tempted the and sets at naught the counsels of God, and Restoration. wrath of God. . . . How shall I appear before follows after the dictates of his own will and the Lord? Of what rebuke am I not worthy carnal desires, he must fall and incur the ven- from the angel of the Most High?” 3 geance of a just God upon him” (D&C 3:1, 4). For well over a month the Lord left Joseph These words carefully describe what in this terrible condi- Joseph Smith had been experiencing. He had tion of remorse. 4 learned the exacting nature of the apostolic By the Gift and Power of God, by Simon Dewey

20 call and to whom the Apostle, at all cost, owes his loyalty. so many believed God to be; the reveals a “Although men set at naught the counsels of God, and God of infinite compassion. Enoch saw that the “God of despise his words,” Joseph was told, “yet you should have heaven . . . wept” (Moses 7:28) over those who would not been faithful” (D&C 3:7–8). Joseph Smith had lost access receive Him. Wishing to know how it was possible, Enoch to the plates for a season and had been taught an invalu- was given an answer that has a familiar biblical feel to it: able lesson. Subsequently, the plates were returned, and “I [have] given commandment, that they should love one his position as translator restored. another, and that they should choose me, their Father. . . . How critical were the lessons provided by the transla- Wherefore should not the heavens weep, seeing these tion of the Book of Mormon as Joseph Smith grew in his shall suffer?” (Moses 7:33, 37; see also Deuteronomy 6:5; apostolic calling! The Book of Mormon is the “keystone Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:37–39). of our religion” 5 because it contains so many prophetic Through the translation of the book of Moses, the testimonies of Christ and stands as a tangible witness of Prophet also became more acquainted with the redeeming the Restoration. and saving power of the Savior. As the Lord said, this earth was created “by the word of my power” (Moses 1:32) for Continuing Revelation and Scripture the purpose of bringing “to pass the immortality and eter- After finishing the translation of the Book of Mormon in nal life of man” (Moses 1:39). Many long years before the 1829 and organizing the Church in 1830, Joseph Smith had Savior taught Thomas and the Twelve that “I am the way, the opportunity to receive continuing apostolic education the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but through the process of translating other scripture. This by me” ( John 14:6), He revealed to Moses that “this is the included three years of translating the Bible and, begin- plan of salvation unto all men, through the blood of mine ning in 1835, translating the . Joseph Only Begotten, who shall come in the meridian of time” Smith’s translation of the Bible expanded his understand- (Moses 6:62). ing of the role of Old Testament prophets and New The First Vision in the grove, the translation of the Testament Apostles. It also resulted in additional revela- Book of Mormon, the revision of the Bible, the rev- tion, namely the book of Moses. elation of the book of Moses, and the translation of The book of Moses provided the Prophet with impor- the book of Abraham laid the basic foundation of the tant knowledge about the Savior’s ministry, including His Church, largely through the rapidly expanding knowl- role in . “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying: edge and testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith relat- . . . I am the Beginning and the End, the Almighty God; ing to Jesus Christ. by mine Only Begotten I created these things” (Moses Revelations given to him and compiled in the Doctrine 2:1). Further, He said, “And worlds without number have I and Covenants contain a wealth of knowledge concern- created; . . . and by the Son I created them, which is mine ing the Savior. One could research the numerous topics Only Begotten” (Moses 1:33). and cross-references of the Topical Guide and Guide to The book of Moses clarified Christ’s relationship to the Scriptures referring to Jesus Christ and still not under- the Father in the premortal existence and reinforced stand the breadth of information on the Savior that the the Prophet’s understanding of the ascendant power of Prophet Joseph Smith brought to the world. I am grateful righteousness. One of the most beautiful of all the apos- to know that Jesus was “in the beginning with the Father” tolic lessons that came to Joseph Smith in this revelation (D&C 93:21). I am grateful to know that He “suffered these was the confirmation of God’s love. It was so different things for [me], that [I] might not suffer if [I] would repent” from the harsh, unforgiving, and judgmental personage (D&C 19:16).

ENSIGN January 2009 21 am so grateful My Testimony of What the Prophet Revealed world, and the last great day of judgment” for the revela- I am grateful for yet one other thing about (D&C 19:2–3). I tions that teach the Savior’s ministry that stirs my soul deeply. Our own testimonies of the Savior are me that the Savior’s From studying the promises of Malachi, framed by the testimony and teachings of the Atonement reaches Moroni’s initial visit with Joseph, the Savior’s Prophet Joseph Smith. Is it any wonder then to those who have words to the Nephites, and the visit of Elijah that the Prophet taught that “the fundamental lived, loved, served, in the , I learn that God loves principles of our religion are the testimony and hoped for a His children and has provided a way for each of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning better day yet never to return to Him. I know of no doctrine more Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and heard of Jesus or just, no teaching that gives more hope than rose again the third day, and ascended into had the opportu- that of redemption of the dead. I am so grate- heaven; and all other things which pertain nity to embrace His ful for the revelations that teach me that the to our religion are only appendages to it.” 6 gospel. Joseph Smith’s apostolic testimony of the divine reality and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as his knowledge of the redemptive and saving power of the Savior, can best be seen by the Prophet’s own beau- tiful, powerful, and succinct witness: “And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! Savior’s Atonement reaches to those who have “For we saw him, even on the right hand of lived, loved, served, and hoped for a better God; and we heard the voice bearing record day yet never heard of Jesus or had the oppor- that he is the Only Begotten of the Father— tunity to embrace His gospel. This knowledge “That by him, and through him, and of alone would be sufficient to convert me to the him, the worlds are and were created, and . B a rr ett gospel if I knew nothing else at all. Here, at the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and t T least for me, is the ultimate testimony of Jesus daughters unto God” (D&C 76:22–24). Christ and His atoning sacrifice. How grateful I am for the apostolic call of What, then, can be said of the incompara- Joseph Smith. ◼ ble saving power of Christ? That which Joseph Adapted from a presentation to the Seventy. Smith learned in the Sacred Grove about the power of righteousness overcoming evil fore- Notes 1. See Book of Mormon Reference Companion, ed. shadows the final scene. So reveals the Lord: Dennis L. Largey (2003), 457–58. 2. See Lucy Mack Smith, History of Joseph Smith, ed. “I, having accomplished and finished the Preston Nibley (1958), 128–29. will of him whose I am, even the Father, con- 3. History of Joseph Smith, 128, 129. 4. The 116 pages were lost in June 1828. In July Joseph cerning me—having done this that I might Smith received what is now section 3 of the Doctrine and Covenants. In September the plates were subdue all things unto myself— returned to the Prophet. See the historical introduc- “Retaining all power, even to the destroy- tions to D&C 3; 10. 5. History of the Church, 4:461.

ing of Satan and his works at the end of the 6. History of the Church, 3:30. Elijah r e storing th k ys of s aling pow pri sthood, by Robe

22 Drawn to theTemple

When Aric Finucane learned that he could enter the Washington D.C. Temple by joining the Church, he embraced the gospel with a determination to receive his endowment. Photogra p hs by michael r. morris

By Michael R. Morris my parents around the beltway,” Aric says. “At some point Church Magazines I learned that in order to enter that beautiful building, I s a child, Aric Finucane couldn’t help but notice had to be a member of the LDS Church. I was under the the Washington D.C. Temple towering over the impression that the only way to become a Latter-day Saint A Capital Beltway. Its inviting luminescence above was to be born into the Church or to marry into the Church. I-495, after all, is hard to ignore. I wasn’t born into the Church, and I thought my chances of “I often wondered about the large castle-like building finding and marrying a Mormon girl were pretty unlikely. So that seemed to rise up out of nowhere as I would ride with I was fairly confident I would never enter the temple.”

ensign January 2009 23 hile Many people drawn to the temple are accepted an invitation in December 2004 waiting more optimistic about entering it, says to attend the Festival of Lights program Win the William H. Child, director of the temple visi- at the temple visitors’ center. Upon enter- temple visitors’ tors’ center. But they’re disappointed when ing the center, he approached two sister center before a re- they learn that they can’t just walk in. “We tell missionaries. side, Aric experienced them they can enter, but rst they have to get “They shared a message that made an a prompting. “I saw baptized and live temple standards.” impression on me,” Aric recalls. When they a man across the Aric was one of those who chose to get asked him to ll out a referral card so they room I knew I had baptized and prepare himself for the temple. might teach him more about the Church and to meet,” he says. A student of both Western and Eastern its doctrines, Aric hesitated. religious philosophies who enjoyed “spiri- “I went outside, looked at the lights, and tual conversation” as had the impression that I should not wait he grew older, Aric but should ll out the card,” he says. “I didn’t know it at the time, but the Holy Ghost was prompting me to go back in.” He turned in the card, and the mis- sionaries soon began meeting him in ’ center. During his rst discussion, they asked him to read aloud from the Book of Mormon. “As I read I found that my dyslexia did not bother me, which I found odd,” he says. He experienced a bigger surprise during his second discussion.

“I learned that I BY GREGG THORKELSON ILLUSTRATION

24 could become a member!” he says. “That was enter and I couldn’t,” he recalls. “I decided to a big surprise because I believed that the mis- go for a walk around the temple and wait for sionaries were only teaching me about Latter- her, and as I got close to the temple I felt as if day Saint beliefs so that I might understand a fog had lifted off of me. My frustration and them better. I’m glad I was wrong.” disappointment began to disappear. I had By embracing the gospel and joining the been influenced by Satan, but he was unable Church, Aric realized, he would be able to to disturb me as I got closer to the temple. I “ he temple enter the temple. “All my life I had believed realized that I would always have the capac- regener- that was not an option,” he says. Learning that ity to feel better by going to the temple.” Tates my he could become a member “was an experi- strength to do ence of joy and happiness. Once I learned that Blessed By the Temple good,” says Aric, I could go to the temple, I was determined to On June 6, 2006, a year and a day after his pictured with Elders do whatever I had to do to go.” confirmation, Aric entered the temple and Craig S. Holbrook received his endowment. “It was one of the and Theophile T. “Why Aren’t You Baptized?” most enjoyable experiences I have ever had,” Hitimana, of the While taking the missionary discussions, he says. “I was filled with peace and joy.” Washington D.C. Aric attended a “Why I Believe” fireside at He felt so blessed by the experience that he North Mission. the visitors’ center, where he experienced has returned to the temple as often as pos- another prompting. sible, performing more than 100 endowments “While I was waiting in the lobby before during his second year as a Latter-day Saint. the meeting, I saw a man across the room I “When I come to the temple, my joy knew I had to meet,” he says. “I crossed the and happiness are renewed, and I have the room and was greeted by President William opportunity and privilege to help those who Price,” then serving as president of the can’t help themselves,” says Aric. “The temple Washington D.C. North Mission. regenerates my strength to do good.” “Are you the new ward mission leader?” For Aric, doing good includes researching President Price asked him. his family history and serving in his ward’s “No, I’m the investigator,” Aric said. Primary, where he teaches children about the “Why aren’t you baptized?” President Price importance of the temple. asked. “There is an aura about the temple, and it When Aric replied that he still had two isn’t just because of its beauty,” says Elder missionary discussions to go, President Price F. Melvin Hammond, formerly of the Seventy encouraged him to have the sisters present and recently released president of the both discussions one right after the other. Washington D.C. Temple. “A power generates Five weeks after his first discussion, Aric was from it, and it falls upon everyone in the , baptized. Six months later, he had an experi- members and nonmembers alike. The temple ence that strengthened his resolve to continue changes people and blesses their lives.” preparing himself to enter the temple. Aric agrees. Joining the Church with the “I was going to pick up a friend at the goal of entering the temple, he says, “has temple and was frustrated that she could been the best decision of my life.” ◼

ensign January 2009 25 Faith to Ford the River

“He sent from above, he took me, he drew channeled so much water, it was cut surprisingly deep. me out of many waters. He delivered me The cold, swift water first pulled at his knees, then his from my strong enemy” (Psalm 18:16–17). waist, and soon swirled about his chest. Rafael knew he was in trouble. The streambed was By Adam C. Olson Church Magazines slippery and uneven, and the powerful current threatened to steal his footing. Halfway across, he used all his strength afael Mateo and his son, Whalincon (known as to stay upright, and he found himself powerless to move “Whally”), paused in the darkness of a stormy forward or backward. R afternoon and eyed the rushing waters of the rain- Just when he thought he was too weak to fight the swollen river. Rafael, first counselor in the branch presi- flood any longer, he felt a push from behind that thrust dency, and Whally, the branch elders quorum president, him toward the opposite bank. It wasn’t until after he had

were returning home after a Sunday full of meetings at their reached the other side that he realized his savior hadn’t id N ewman i on by Gre gg T horkelson; photo g raph Dav Illustrat chapel in San José de Ocoa in the Dominican . been Whally, who was still on the opposite side. They were already drenched from trudging through the He attributes his rescue to the power of the same Savior downpour and crossing the flooded Río Ocoa that created who has helped him survive the threatening pull of other a dangerous barrier between the chapel and their home. trials, both physical and spiritual. During the dry season, the 6-kilometer (4-mile) hike “I’ve had to throw myself many times into the river up descending from the chapel on one side of the valley then to my chest in the service of the Lord,” says Brother Mateo. up to their home on the heights of the other side usually “But I feel a great debt to the Lord. He has given me not takes an hour. But when the river floods during the rainy only the opportunity to serve Him but the endurance.” season, Rafael and his family have to take a three-hour, Like King David, Brother Mateo knows the Savior “took 15-kilometer (9-mile) detour to find a place where they me, he drew me out of many waters. He delivered me can ford the river with some degree of safety. from my strong enemy” (Psalm 18:16–17). Rafael had completed the journey countless times That testimony has carried him through trials more before. He had crossed the river every day for 12 years to subtle than, but just as real as, crossing the river that get to work. Being called two months after his baptism to stormy afternoon with Whally. serve as branch president, a calling he held for six years, Despite the cost of the trip, Brother only increased the number of trips. After that it was a call Mateo; his wife, Altagracia; and three as elders quorum president. Then he was called back into of their children were sealed in the the branch presidency. temple in 2001. Since then they But familiarity with the river didn’t diminish its dan- have sacrificed to save enough to ger, and the swift water of the flooded rivers could be visit the temple at least twice each year. as deadly as the wide river they fed. Not long before, an The work and the sacrifices, both physical overflowing river had swept a neighbor off his feet, killing and spiritual, are worth it to Brother Mateo. him in a mad rush down its narrow course. “It’s not hard when you know what the purpose Father and son hesitated at the water’s edge; then is,” he says. “We’re fighting for something more sub- Rafael stepped in. The river was not wide, but because it lime than wordly things.” ◼

26 Entitled to the Lord’s Help “Remember that this work is not Faith to Ford the River yours and mine alone. It is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, . . . we are entitled to the Lord’s help.” President Thomas S. Monson, “The Sacred Call of Service,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2005, 56.

ensign January 2009 27 Messages from the

Doctrine and Covenants Confidence in the Presence of God

By Elder Michael John U. Teh Of the Seventy he story of the Prophet Joseph Smith that the promise is sure. Whether I lost a toy seeking to know which church to join or a coin or any other precious possession Tamid the “contests of . . . parties of that may seem of no consequence to adults, religionists” ( Joseph Smith—History 1:11) is Heavenly Father answered my prayers and a story of inspiration and hope for all honest put my mind at ease. I recall distinctly the seekers of truth. What a relief it must have confidence I had that an answer would come. been to Joseph—an obscure boy of 14 with Such is the faith of a young boy. Such was a simple question and an honest desire—to the faith of the young Joseph Smith. As we increase our read the following passage from the Bible: Such faith is consistent with the conditions faith and commit- “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of under which prayers are answered, as the fol- ment, we will draw God, that giveth to all men liberally, and lowing passage outlines: “Let him ask in faith, nearer to our Father upbraideth not; and it shall be given him” nothing wavering” ( James 1:6). in Heaven. ( James 1:5). As I grew older, I found that unwavering This passage provides a great insight into faith became increasingly difficult to exercise. the kind of relationship each of us should The world plants seeds of doubt and preju- have with our Father in Heaven. Indeed, dice in our minds and hearts. Hence, the this verse expresses the tender mercies and Savior’s admonition that we “become as little inclinations of our loving Father toward a children” (Matthew 18:3) has for me become son who came to Him with a question. The a lifelong quest. I find that faith “as a grain Father does not generally answer prayers of mustard seed” (Matthew 17:20) is within with visions, as He did in the Sacred Grove, my reach at times but far from my reach at but He does provide answers that bring other times. much comfort and peace. Such is His prom- How can we consistently exercise this ise to us—to give liberally and not upbraid, kind of faith? The following counsel pro- or chastise. vides insight into this righteous pursuit: “That As a young boy, I had several opportuni- which is of God is light; and he that receiveth ties to put this promise to the test. I testify light, and continueth in God, receiveth more

28 ary H enrie ; bor d er © 2007 by C ary t ory an d A r t esy of Museu m C hurch H is ory

light; and that light groweth brighter and “. . . A group gathered . . . to hold a he Savior’s brighter until the perfect day” (D&C 50:24). council. . . . After the council was concluded, admoni- This is the process that the Prophet Joseph the leading mobocrats declared that they Ttion that we Smith went through. Like others before him, would not kill him but would strip him “become as little he proved himself by consistently exercis- naked and whip and tear his flesh. . . . They children” has for ing faith and the righteous use of agency thrust a reeking tar paddle into his face and me become a life- over time. He continued in God, received attempted to force it down his throat. . . . long quest. ight, by A nne Marie O born, cour : Children of L ight, more light, and that light grew brighter and “After they left Joseph, he attempted brighter until the perfect day. to rise, but fell back again from pain and One incident in the Prophet’s life had a exhaustion. He succeeded, however, in powerful influence on me as a young man: tearing the tar away from his face so that “At a late hour of the night Joseph was he could breathe freely. . . . lying down and slumbering heavily from “Securing some covering for his person, weariness. . . . A few moments later an infuri- the Prophet entered the house, and spent the ated mob burst the door open and . . . seized night in cleansing his body and dressing his

: Joseph S mith Writing, by Dale Kilbourn; righ t him and were dragging him from the house wounds. . . .

Top lef t when Emma screamed. . . . “The next morning, being the Sabbath,

ensign January 2009 29 ecause the people assembled at the usual hour shall flow unto thee forever and ever” (D&C Joseph Smith of worship. With them came some of the 121:45–46). B sought wis- mobbers. . . . It is a privilege for me to testify that dom in the Sacred “With his flesh all bruised and scarred, Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. Because Grove and exercised Joseph went to the meeting and stood before he sought wisdom in the Sacred Grove and diligence after- the congregation, facing his assailants of exercised diligence afterward, we enjoy the ward, we enjoy the the previous night calmly and manfully. He fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The fulness of the gospel preached a powerful sermon and on the same following tribute by President John Taylor of Jesus Christ. day baptized three believers into the Church.” 1 (1808–87), written when he was a member I cannot begin to imagine the pain and of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, elo- discomfort the Prophet Joseph must have quently describes what the Prophet Joseph endured. He had ample excuse not to preach Smith did for all of us: “Joseph Smith, the the following morning, but this and many Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, other experiences of similar or worse conse- save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in quence did not cause him to shrink from his this world, than any other man that ever lived responsibility. How, then, can we feel justi- in it. . . . He lived great, and he died great fied if we shrink from our duty because of a in the eyes of God and his people; and like minor discomfort or inconvenience? most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, As we increase our faith and commitment, has sealed his mission and his works with his we will draw nearer to our Father in Heaven. own blood” (D&C 135:3). “Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall May we consistently use our agency wisely answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall answer, and, like the Prophet Joseph Smith, exercise Here I am” (Isaiah 58:9). unwavering faith regardless of our circum- “Then shall thy confidence wax strong in stances so that our confidence may “wax the presence of God; and the doctrine of the strong in the presence of God.” ◼

priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the Note dews from heaven. 1. George Q. Cannon, Life of Joseph Smith the Prophet (1986), 133–35; see also History of the Church, “. . . And without compulsory means it 1:261–64. ght, by Jon Mc N aughton a L i ght, I Saw 30 Peaches,Peaches, Pruning,Pruning, andand SpiritualSpiritual ProgressProgress BY ROBIN RUFF VAN WAGENEN Like pruning away the unnecessary limbs from a tree, we need to prune away those activities that might weaken our testimonies or lead us astray. felt heartsick as I crested the hill toward our house and saw boards and tree branches scattered everywhere I across the side of our yard. We had been gone only a couple of hours, yet that was long enough for one of the infamous east winds in our area to do its damage. It was really my fault though—I had been greedy! When we moved to our new home, we were anxious to taste homegrown peaches and apricots again as we had in our previous home. Garden space in our yard is tight, but we uprooted three crabapple trees and planted three peach trees and two

ILLUSTRATIONS BY GREG NEWBOLD ILLUSTRATIONS apricot trees—

HELPS FOR HOME EVENING much too closely together. We waited 1. Draw a large picture of a tree with many activities that might weaken our testi- anxiously for a couple of years for branches. Have family members label the branches monies or lead us astray. Children, like them to grow big enough to start with activities in which the family participates. these young trees, need parents’ guid- bearing fruit. Read the story together. Discuss which family ance and correction as they grow. This year was going to be our rst activities might weaken our testimonies or lead us The challenge for parents is that bumper crop. The beautiful array of astray. Use scissors to cut off the branches and when children are young we may blossoms and warmer days boded discuss how pruning can make us stronger. tire of the constant need to gently well. In my mind I could already taste 2. Share the story of Sister Van Wagenen . correct them and help them keep the cool juice of a sweet, fresh peach. Have your family search the scriptures to see on course. For whatever reason, Earlier in the spring my husband, how many times pruning and trees are used. we may hesitate to discipline them Bob, had asked if he should prune Ask how the idea of pruning is represented in or we may not allow them to suffer the trees. He said that it would be the scriptures. Read paragraphs seven and eight, the consequences of their actions an advantage to both the trees and and discuss how they apply to you individually when this is needed. the fruit to be pruned. A couple of and as a family. In Doctrine and Covenants 136:31, kindly neighbors even offered their the Lord says, “My people must be assistance if we needed any pruning help. But I said no to tried in all things, that they may be prepared to receive the them all. I didn’t want to give up any potential peach to glory that I have for them, even the glory of Zion; and he that pruning shears. I wanted plenty for canning and eating fresh. will not bear chastisement is not worthy of my kingdom.” As the branches grew bigger, Bob suggested we knock off I now wonder how the Lord is pruning me. Am I learn- some of the smaller peaches so the branches would have an ing the lessons he wants me to learn? Am I bearing fruit easier time holding the fruit. Again I protested and persuaded worthy of Him? Do I see and appreciate the guidance of him to leave them alone. Soon it was obvious the branches the Master’s hand in my life? Do I let go of what is unnec- could not hold the bumper crop, so Bob put boards under essary or sinful in my life and keep only what is good? the branches to hold up the sagging limbs. We crossed our Last spring I nally allowed Bob to prune our trees. ngers in hopes that we could harvest the fruit in time. I shed a tear as he lopped off many of the remaining And then the winds came and did their devastating branches. I bit my tongue later as he carefully went out work in the space of just a few minutes. As I surveyed the and thinned some of the fruit off the tree. I didn’t think damage, I found that several of the largest branches had been there was enough wood left to even bear fruit. However, torn from the trunk and lay on the ground with greenish- many peaches did start to grow on the few remaining orange peaches clinging to the broken limbs. The boards limbs. They were not great in number, but they were the that had been propping the branches for several weeks were largest, sweetest peaches we have ever had. strewn across the yard like giant toothpicks. As my children are leaving for missions and for school, It occurred to me that our own growth can be much like I see how this analogy applies to their lives. Through gospel the growth of these trees. In order to be as healthy as possible teachings in the home, examples of Church leaders, occasional and bear the best fruit they can, fruit trees have to be pruned “pruning” episodes, and learning through their own experi- by cutting out the unnecessary limbs. They have to be shaped ences, they have grown strong branches and are beginning and molded to withstand the wind and the weight of their to bear wonderful fruit, even in ways I never expected. How own fruit. As I learned, not doing this can be disastrous. grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father who prunes us The limbs of a tree are like all the possible actions we can and helps us tend our gardens, so we may literally see the accomplish in our lives. To gain a testimony and accomplish “fruits” of our labors. ◼

our eternal goals in this life, we have to prune away those

32

My Guilt Was Swept Away BY GEORGE D. DURRANT I left the family history class upset. I felt I had done enough, yet a stirring within my soul told me there was something more I could do.

couple of years ago in a Sunday school class, the teacher encouraged us to do our family history A research. He directed the message to everyone in the class, but I felt singled out. I felt I had done my duty and more. My family lines were traced back as far as pos- sible; there was no more I could do. I left the class upset. I felt I had books to write and pictures to paint and just did not want to give all my twilight years to family history work. I felt I had done enough, yet a stirring within my soul told me there was something more I could do. I knew I could not rationalize away my guilt. I was not at peace. As my mind raced back and forth, I recalled a friend with whom I had served on a family history committee. She had told me to set aside a speci c time each week and dedi- cate it to family history research and that I would become more effective in the other things I did. I liked this sister, but I didn’t want to believe what she told me. Then, as I sat there stewing, I had a quiet and simple revelation: To do family history research I did not need

34 to give up writing or painting. I just needed to spend each listing for a George Mayen married to a Mary Holdridge Monday morning from 8:00 a.m. until noon doing the work. in 1781. Since Mayen is a common misspelling of Mayne, That would still give me time to paint, write, perform my we pursued the lead. The record stated they had been work as a temple sealer, and attend a temple endowment married in Northallerton, Yorkshire. We looked at a map session each week. and found that Northallerton was within 20 miles of Wath. I decided it was time to give in and rid myself of this linger- We were also intrigued because we knew George was ing guilt. I looked across the room and saw Brother Ricks, one married to a Mary. of our ward family history consultants. He had some experi- We then found a Mary Holdridge in the International ence in research and had offered to help me many times. Genealogical Index who had been christened in Wath and I told him my feelings and desires, and he agreed to realized we had likely found our George and Mary. help me every Monday morning. As I drove home that We learned that the Northallerton parish records had not yet Sunday, I remembered that my mother once sent money been extracted, so the next Monday we went to the Church to a researcher in England to work on her family line, the in Salt Lake City and looked through Mayne line, but he never could nd her third great-grand- the micro che records, where I was thrilled to nd the mar- father’s marriage or birthplace. So I decided to begin my riage of George Mayen to Mary Holdridge. Brother Ricks also research there, determined to give it my best. searched christening records and found the births of George At our rst meeting I showed Brother Ricks the Mayne and four of his siblings to George Mayen and Catherine Aston. line. When we began searching, we knew my third And then I found their marriage! great-grandfather, George, had lived many years in Wath, I think these people are the ones who made me feel guilty Yorkshire, England, but there was no record of his birth or when I refused to get involved! Now that they are found, other marriage there. Parish records showed that William, my sec- ancestors will probably leave me feeling a bit restless as well. ond great-grandfather, had a father named George, whose But I will continue to devote my Monday mornings to family wife was named Mary, but we did not have her last name. history research. Somehow I just feel better about life and We approximated a marriage date around 1785. We my self-worth. My guilt has been swept away, replaced by

ILLUSTRATIONS BY CARY HENRIE BY CARY ILLUSTRATIONS entered a general search for George Mayne and found a excitement and love. ◼

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 35 By Diane Terry Woolf After my husband died suddenly, I looked at my five children and my future and asked the Lord one question: “How?”

hen I was 36, my husband, Bryan, drowned in a hunting accident on Utah Lake, near Provo, Utah. WHe was two and a half years out of a surgical residency. I was pregnant with our fifth child. Our home teacher drowned searching for his body, leaving behind a wife and four children. My husband’s body was lost in November and was not recovered from the frozen lake until the following March, about two weeks after Anne’s birth. Our house sat in the foothills of Provo with a view of the lake. Just stepping out the front door and looking at the lake reminded me of his death. Ironically, it is because of this experience that I know that God loves me, that I have a mission to perform, and that I can trust in God’s power and in His plan for me. That is the power that can come from adversity. When something dear was stripped away, I did what many of you have done—I put my hand in the hand of the Lord. This is what I learned.

PuttingPutting

. B arrett MM y y HH a a n n d d obert T i ons by R obert Illustrat inin thethe Lord’sLord’s Ask How, Not Why is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches I cannot deal with the why of adversity because I have of eternity are yours” (vv. 17–18). I knew the Lord was no concrete answers for the whys. But I can speak of how leading me along in ways I had never anticipated. one continues a life that has taken a detour from a self- Sixteen years later, after my son came home ill from his mis- plotted course. sion, he and I had the opportunity to visit with Elder Neal A. Asking why is an exercise in frustration because Heavenly Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (1926–2004) Father generally does not answer the whys of our lives here about my son’s situation. Our meeting occurred early in the in mortality. Faith in God is not developed by having all the morning after one of Elder Maxwell’s chemotherapy treatments. answers. Immediately after Bryan died, my prayers were des- He shared a scripture that had helped him personally: “And I perate and pleading. I had always lived a good life, and I felt said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, that I had lived to be blessed, not punished. I do not know the meaning of all things” (1 Nephi 11:17). When my specific “instructions-to-God” prayers were Faith has to be sufficient when we do not know why. We not answered, I learned the supreme importance of making must simply remember “that he loveth his children” and that myself available to listen, be instructed, and receive comfort. we cannot—right now—know the meaning of all things. Instead of instructing God, I began to prayerfully say: “I don’t We must say, “I love You and I trust You.” understand, but I know that You do. I love You and I trust The scripture Elder Maxwell shared with us applied to You. Please guide me to know how to do what I must do.” my feelings after Bryan’s death, as well as my son’s situa- I remember reading my scriptures with a hunger I had tion. Everything in life can shift, change, or leave, but our never experienced before. In Doctrine and Covenants 78, I Heavenly Father, our Savior Jesus Christ, and the Holy found these words: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are lit- Ghost never change. They are the one great constant to tle children, and ye have not as yet understood how great lead us along. We do not know the meaning of all things, blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared but we can be sure “that he loveth his children.” Because for you. And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, we are so loved, God may not answer why, but He will tell be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom us how we can do whatever we must do.

ensign January 2009 37 Live Worthy of Help Everything in life answers directed specifically to me. I remember Each of us can strive for the Spirit, which can shift, change, struggling with one of the natural human reac- we need to direct our lives. After losing or leave, but our tions to death: anger. I was mad that Bryan had Bryan, I tried harder to keep the command- Heavenly Father, died and left me. But I was tired of being angry, ments and make myself available, as the our Savior Jesus so I began praying for relief. One day I read head of my home, for personal revelation. My Christ, and the Holy Alma 5:12: “And according to his faith there was children and I continue to read our scriptures Ghost never change. a mighty change wrought in his heart.” From that daily and to have regular family prayer. One We do not know the moment, peace flowed into my heart and anger of the blessings I most appreciated was that meaning of all things, left; I had a direct answer to my pleading. There it felt like the Holy Ghost was present in our but we can be sure is power in the scriptures to answer prayers. home. I felt a great sense of peace amid the “that he loveth grief of loss and change. As Doctrine and his children.” Seek Personal Revelation Covenants 6:20 says, “Be faithful and diligent The temple is one of the places where we in keeping the commandments of God, and I can receive personal revelation. Truman G. will encircle thee in the arms of my love.” Madsen wrote, “The temple is the catalyst Through reading my scriptures, I found whereby the self is revealed to the self.” 1

38 christ in Gethsemane, by Heinrich Hofmann, Courtesy of C. Harrison Conroy Co., Inc. woman whoknew solittleabouthow “all thesethingsshall Atonement thanIwould beifIwere stillthat36-year-old to hisfather” 3:19). (Mosiah upon him,seeth fittoinflict even asachilddothsubmit full oflove, willing tosubmitallthingswhichtheLord become aschildren, “submissive, meek, humble, patient, byorder tobestrengthened Christ, we must me”strengtheneth (Philippians4:13). His own timeandinHisown way. received personalrevelation, butithasbeenin Appreciate Growth inAdversity Submit Your WillandBeStrengthenedby Christ that way. . they have prescribed. Revelation doesnotcome immediately respond, even inthepreciseway nience, they cancallupontheLordandhewill they arereadyandwhenitsuitstheirconve- principle. They believe thatwhen people donotunderstandthis time andinhisown way. Many us throughtheSpiritinhisown taught: Lordwillspeakto “The ofthe Quorum Twelve Apostles work toreceive answers. tions willbeanswered. We must temple once, andallourques- snap ourfingers, attendthe what theLordwould have usdo. fare. We findoutwho we areand to ourphysicalandspiritualwel- entitled torevelation thatpertains If we comeprepared, we are My experiences have madememorethankfulfor the We tosubmit ourFather’s areheretolearn will. “I candoallthingsthroughChristwhich I have soughtanswers for mylife andhave Elder I amnotsaying thatwe can Dallin H. Oaksofthe . . We cannot force spiritualthings.” But in But in 2 submit tohisfather.” even asachilddoth fit toinflictuponhim, which theLordseeth submit toallthings of love,willingto humble, patient,full “submissive, meek, become aschildren, Christ, wemust strengthened by But inordertobe

experienced thetutoringlove ofGod.◼ (see D&C84:88). Ihave faithinthesethingsbecauseIhave will gobefore us andbeonourrighthandleft Lord standsreadytosuccorusthroughtheHolyGhost. He and thentowork atbeingjoyful; torememberthatthe childless orwithaquiver fullofchildren;toshoutfor joy we arehere:towork outoursalvation, aloneormarried, Notes (1965),3.The Principles Gospel:AnExpositionofItsFirst 278. 2.“Teaching by theSpirit,” andLearning Ensign,Mar. 1997, 10–11. 1.The Highest inUs(1978), 98. all ofus. The challengeistorememberwhy endure infaithtotheend. That isexpectedof tive, smart, andwealthy whoareexpectedto disappointments occur.- Itisnotjusttheattrac even whenloved onesdieandothertrials enants, andlive thegreatplanofhappiness ease, andwealth andpleasure.” of life andcharacter, unknown totheheirsof and spiritualstrength, togetherwithapurity drink thewater ofaffliction, develop amoral with sorrows, eatthebreadof adversity and dangers, enduredisappointments, struggle The challengeistolove God, keep ourcov- contend with difficulties, brave contend wing also. draw myfive childrenunderhis children. Iwatched myhusband had died, leaving himwithfive a wonderfulman. Bill’s wife be for thygood” (D&C122:7). give theeexperience, andshall said of theSeventy (1857–1933) not wasted. ElderB. H. Roberts that painfulexperiences are deep, toknow itiscomforting Though painandlossbite because ofwhatIhave learned. I would notgobackaday Later I was blessed to marry Later Iwas blessedtomarry that “those whohave to ensign January 2009 3 39 New York Twenty-five sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were given in Manchester, Fayette, and Perrysburg, New York, from 1823 through 1833.

Below: A rainbow glows in the sky near the Joseph Knight Sr. farm in Colesville (present day Nineveh), New York (D&C 23:6). Emma Smith was baptized on the Knight farm. Below, right: The Peter Whitmer home in Fayette, New York, where the Church was organized in 1830 (D&C 21).

Pennsylvania Fifteen sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were given in Harmony, Pennsylvania, from 1828 through 1830.

Background: This sec- tion of the runs past Harmony, where the Aaronic and priesthoods were restored (D&C 13). Photogra p hs by Kenneth R . Mays 40 DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS

REVEALED BY KENNETH R. MAYS Most of the sacred revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants were received through the Prophet Joseph Smith and came in answer to prayer. Following are a few of the sites where sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were revealed or where related events took place.

OhioSixty-six sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were given in Kirtland, Hiram, Thompson, Amherst, and Orange, Ohio, from 1831 through 1837.

Left, top: The John Johnson home in Hiram, Ohio, was the site where 16 sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were revealed. Among them was section 76, which describes the telestial, terrestrial, and celestial kingdoms of heaven.

Left, center: Forty-six revelations were received in Kirtland, Ohio, more than any other location. The School of the Prophets met in this upstairs room of the Newell K. Whitney store. As result of the com- mon use of tobacco at the time and in this room, the Lord revealed D&C 89.

Left, bottom: Several revelations revolve around the Kirtland Temple but the most powerful is found in D&C 110. On April 3, 1836, Jesus Christ ap- peared. Moses, Elias, and Elijah also ap- peared to commit their keys to the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Background: Local tradition identifies this site, two miles west of the Kirtland Temple, as the quarry from which the stones for the temple were taken. The quarry eventually filled with groundwater and became known as the square lake.

ensign January 2009 43

MissouriTwenty-one sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were given in Jackson County, Caldwell County, Daviess County, and Clay County, Ohio, from 1831 through 1839. Background: Section 116 of the Doctrine and Covenants was given at Spring Hill, Daviess County, , an area the Lord named Adam- ondi-Ahman. The Prophet Joseph laid out a city, but the Saints were driven away before they could build it. Far left: Seven revelations were given in Far West, Caldwell County, Missouri. Here the Lord named his church (D&C 115) and taught the Saints about the law of tithing (D&C 119).

IllinoisThe majority of Saints lived in either Ohio or Missouri before gathering to Illinois. Ten sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were given in Nauvoo and Ramus from 1841 through 1844. Left: The weathered wood identifies the original Nauvoo home of Joseph Smith. Eight revelations were received in Nauvoo, includ- ing D&C 124 wherein the Saints were commanded to build a temple. Left, bottom: In this upstairs room of the Carthage Jail, a mob killed Joseph and Hyrum Smith. In D&C 135, John Taylor records the events of the mar- tyrdom and pays tribute to Joseph and Hyrum. ◼ For more information see: lds. org>GospelLibrary>Image Libraries>BYU’sReligiousEducation Archive>SearchAll, or lds.org> About theChurch>ChurchHistory> HistoricSites

ensign January 2009 45

Enriching Your Study of the Doctrine and Covenants

Read the Book from Cover to Cover The Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Class Member Study Guide encourages members to “read the Doctrine and Covenants from beginning to end” 2 during 2009, as well as to complete each Sunday’s reading assignments, which are arranged by topic. A. Roger Merrill (center), president; Daniel K Judd (left), first counselor; Studying in this manner helps us and William D. Oswald, second counselor. understand the context of the sec- This year presents the wonderful opportunity for each tions studied as well as the sections of us to receive great blessings by studying the Doctrine themselves. It also prepares us to and Covenants—a marvelous book of revelation that participate in a rich discussion in Sunday School class—which, in turn, was written in our day and for our day. will provide added insight and inspi- ration for us to use in our personal By the Sunday School General Presidency and family lives. ometimes referred to as and Covenants helps me relate to In your daily scripture study, you the Lord’s handbook of the situations I’m facing because it is may find it helpful to set aside one SRestoration, the Doctrine and not so ancient.” One brother said, or two days each week to preview Covenants contains “the tender but “I like the Doctrine and Covenants specifically what will be discussed in firm voice of the Lord Jesus Christ, because it helps me understand class and then continue your reading speaking anew in the dispensation the priesthood.” of the Doctrine and Covenants from of the fulness of times.” 1 We testify that the Doctrine and beginning to end. Many members have already Covenants is truly the Lord’s voice in discovered a great love for this our time to each child of God and that Read with Questions in Mind book. One sister said, “The spe- great blessings come to those who Brother Renzo Molly Barrios cific revelations to individuals in study it. We also offer four suggestions Matias, of Guatemala, learned the the Doctrine and Covenants are to make your study this year a reward- power of using scripture study to helpful. I feel I can relate to them.” ing experience and suggest some ways receive personal revelation for his

i ons by Cra g D mon d Photo Illustrat Another commented, “The Doctrine in which Sunday School can help. own life.

ensign January 2009 47 An example of a connection in the Doctrine and Covenants is the link between our obedience and promised blessings. “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise” (D&C 82:10). Our scripture study becomes more meaningful as we recognize this connection and resolve to act on what the Lord has commanded us to do. One pattern in the Doctrine and Covenants is woven into the very nature of the book itself. As the introduction indicates, “These sacred revelations were received in answer owerful gospel teaching and inspired learning occur when to prayer, in times of need, and came teachers and learners understand that the real teacher in any out of real-life situations involving real PChurch class is the Holy Ghost and that classroom participation people.” 4 The revelations were personal invites the Spirit to bear witness. and answer specific questions concern- ing things that Heavenly Father knew “After Hurricane Mitch passed in mind invites the Lord to inspire would “be of the most worth” (D&C through Central America in 2001 and and direct us in our challenges and 15:6; 16:6) to each individual. 5 This pat- left everything in desolation, I had opportunities. You may want to write tern of seeking and receiving personal many questions,” he says. “Seeking down questions to prayerfully include revelation is one that we can follow in answers, I went to a friend I greatly in your scripture study. As you receive our own lives. respect. He said, ‘Read the scriptures. answers, you may feel inspired to One of the most common themes You will find the best answers to your share that insight in Sunday School. in all of scripture is “Seek me dili- questions in them.’ Class members are edified as they gently and ye shall find me; ask, and “This revolutionized my life,” says hear one another appropriately bear ye shall receive; knock, and it shall Brother Matias. “After studying the witness of how the Lord uses the be opened unto you” (D&C 88:63). scriptures for quite a long time, I scriptures to provide personal guid- Themes such as this encourage us to began to find answers to my ques- ance and inspiration. accept greater responsibility for our tions. I was able to see that my life own learning as we read and ponder did have meaning. It was then that I Search for Connections, God’s words. decided to serve a full-time mission.” Patterns, and Themes While the Doctrine and Covenants Soon Elder Matias was serving in Elder David A. Bednar of the doesn’t always read as a story, it is the Honduras Tegucigalpa Mission, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has woven together with connections, helping others discover the power of suggested that in all our scripture patterns, and themes. One of the scripture study. study, we seek for connections, blessings of discussing scripture Reading with specific questions patterns, and themes. 3 together in Sunday School is that we

48 become more aware of these insights Elder Holland said, “If we will help At the beginning of this new as we share our own and listen to the the learner assume responsibility year, we invite you to join with us insights of others. for learning, and if we will testify of as we joyfully “search these com- the truths that we have taught, God mandments [in the Doctrine and Seek to Be Edified will confirm to our hearts and to the Covenants], for they are true and and Rejoice Together hearts of our students the message of faithful, and the prophecies and The Lord has said that when the gospel of Jesus Christ.” 6 promises which are in them shall Church members both learn and teach As class members prayerfully study all be fulfilled” (D&C 1:37). ◼ one another by the Spirit, “both are during the week and then together edified and rejoice together” (D&C read from the scriptures and share Notes 1. Explanatory Introduction to the Doctrine 50:22). Powerful gospel teaching and insights, the Holy Ghost will bear and Covenants. 2. Doctrine and Covenants and Church inspired learning occur when teachers witness and carry “unto the hearts” History Class Member Study Guide (1999), and learners understand that the real (2 Nephi 33:1) of each class member Introduction, 3. 3. See David A. Bednar, “A Reservoir of teacher in any Church class is the Holy specifically what he or she needs to Living Water” (Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Feb. 4, 2007), Ghost and that classroom participation know and do (see 2 Nephi 32:3–5). www.ldsces.org. invites the Spirit to bear witness. 4. Explanatory Introduction to the Doctrine and Covenants. In the February 2007 worldwide A Personal Invitation 5. For other examples of specific personal revelation, see D&C 7–9; 11–12; 14–17. leadership training on teaching and As we study and learn from the 6. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Teaching and learning, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of Doctrine and Covenants this year, our Learning in the Church,” Liahona, June 2007, 73; Ensign, June 2007, 105. The the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus broadcast is available in several languages at www.lds.org. Click on “Gospel Library,” invited us to assume greater responsi- Christ will be strengthened and our “Additional Addresses,” then “Worldwide bility for learning the gospel. He then testimony of Joseph Smith as God’s Leadership Training: Teaching and Learning.” demonstrated how inspired teachers prophet of the Restoration will increase. 7. See Joseph Smith—History 1:73–74. After being baptized, Joseph Smith and Oliver can invite class members to become The Lord will open our understanding, Cowdery were “filled with the Holy Ghost.” active rather than passive participants and the scriptures will become an even Their minds were then “enlightened, [and they] began to have the scriptures laid open in class discussions. more integral part of our lives. 7 to [their] understandings.”

Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Studying the Study Guide Class Member Study Guide s we use the Class Member Study Guide in our studies before coming to Sunday School, A it will help us be better prepared to “teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom” (D&C 88:77). The study guide contains a variety of study resources: • An introduction to the Doctrine and Covenants. • The weekly scripture reading assignments and scripture study chains. • A brief Church history chronology. • Maps showing the location of important places in Church history. • Faith-promoting questions to encourage gospel discussions. • A copy of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.”

ensign January 2009 49 theTREASURING Doctrine and Covenants

This latter-day BY ELDER STEVEN E. SNOW for the bene t of members of the Church. scripture is a rich Of the Presidency of the Seventy With much excitement, the Saints in Missouri source for personal fter moving with their mother to anticipated the publication of these revela- revelation and inspi- Independence, Missouri, in the fall tions as a “Book of Commandments.” This ration. It unlocks A of 1831, young sisters Mary Elizabeth work was under way at the printing of ce spiritual insights for and Caroline Rollins soon learned of the when the mob struck. Mary Elizabeth, then those who earnestly hardship and persecution the Saints faced 15, described what happened: study and ponder its there. One night an angry mob attacked their “My sister Caroline [age 13] and myself teachings. home; on another occasion, they witnessed were in a corner of a fence watching them; an attack on the newly constructed print- when they spoke of the commandments I ing of ce located on the upper  oor of the was determined to have some of them. Sister William W. Phelps residence. said if I went to get any of them she would During the attack on the printing of ce, go too, but said ‘they will kill us.’ ” 2 the mob forced the Phelps family from their While the mob was busy at one end of the home and threw their belongings into the house, the two girls ran and lled their arms street. Mobsters then went to work destroy- with the precious sheets. The mob saw them ing the printing equipment upstairs and and ordered the girls to stop. Mary Elizabeth throwing unbound manuscripts from the recalled: “We ran as fast as we could. Two building. Some brought out large sheets of of them started after us. Seeing a gap in a paper and declared, “Here are the Mormon fence, we entered into a large corn eld, laid Commandments!” 1 By this time, the Prophet the papers on the ground, and hid them with Joseph Smith had received many our persons. The corn was from ve to six sacred revelations, some as early feet high, and very thick; they hunted around as 1823, when the angel Moroni considerable, and came very near us but did appeared to the boy prophet. not nd us.” 3 Joseph had recorded numerous This courageous act by two young girls revelations in his own handwrit- helped preserve the printed text of the ing, but no text had been Prophet Joseph’s early revelations, paving prepared and distributed the way for the subsequent completion of the Book of Commandments, which later A photograph of Mary became the Doctrine and Covenants. Elizabeth Rollins Lightner, along with some of the manuscript The Capstone of Our Religion pages she and her sister rescued How important is this great legacy of

from the mob as young girls. scripture? President Gordon B. Hinckley THE BOOK OF COMMANDMENTS, BY CLARK KELLEY PRICE SAVING Messages from the

Doctrine and Covenants

ensign JANUARY 2009 51 With much excitement, the Saints in doctrines. We learn of the existence of God and His attri- Missouri anticipated the publication of butes, fatherhood, and omniscience. We learn that we the Prophet’s revelations as a “Book of lived with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ Commandments.” in a pre-earth existence, that the Son is separate and distinct (1910–2008) said, “The from the Father, that Jesus Doctrine and Covenants is Christ played a major role unique among our books in the early councils that of scripture. It is the planned our universe, and that constitution of the Church. He was chosen as the Savior of While the Doctrine and mankind. We learn of God’s love Covenants includes writings and for us and of His preparations for statements of various origins, it is pri- our temporal and spiritual salvation. marily a book of revelation given through Elder John A. Widtsoe (1872–1952) the Prophet of this dispensation.” 4 wrote, “Every doctrine taught by The President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) taught, “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Doctrine and Covenants is the binding link between is found, either outlined or shadowed forth, the Book of Mormon and the continuing work of the in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. As far as I know, Restoration through the Prophet Joseph Smith and his suc- there is no doctrine taught by the Church which is not cessors.” He testified, “The Book of Mormon brings men to found in some way or form in this book.” He added that Christ. The Doctrine and Covenants brings men to Christ’s the Doctrine and Covenants is essential because “no other kingdom, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day one of our sacred books can lay the same claim to a full Saints. . . . The Book of Mormon is the ‘keystone’ of our reli- survey of all the doctrines of the Church.” 6 gion, and the Doctrine and Covenants is the capstone, with continuing latter-day revelation.” 5 Organization and Administration The Lord introduces the revelations contained in the Throughout the Doctrine and Covenants the Lord care- Doctrine and Covenants with a thundering declara- fully revealed how His Church was to be organized. In sec- tion concerning the purposes of God in the latter-day tion 20 we learn of the requirements for baptism (see v. 37) Restoration: and of the command to bless children (see v. 70). This sec- “Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the voice tion also sets forth the duties of holders of the priesthood. of him who dwells on high, and whose eyes are upon all Ordained elders receive instruction in their duties, including men; yea, verily I say: Hearken ye people from afar; and the importance of following the Spirit: ye that are upon the islands of the sea, listen together. “The elders are to conduct the meetings as they are led “For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men, and by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and there is none to escape; and there is no eye that shall not revelations of God” (v. 45). Priests learn that they are to see, neither ear that shall not hear, neither heart that shall “preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize, and admin- not be penetrated” (D&C 1:1–2). ister the sacrament” (v. 46). Teachers are to “watch over the Marvelous truths—many in the words of the Lord church always, and be with and strengthen them” (v. 53). Himself—then follow. Nowhere in the scriptures does the Deacons are instructed to assist the priests and teachers in Lord speak so directly to His people through His proph- their duties (see v. 57). ets. Many of the revelations are personally directed, some Section 20 reminds us that “it is expedient that the unfold the organization of the restored Church, and others church meet together often to partake” of the sacrament offer pragmatic counsel. “in the remembrance of the Lord Jesus” (v. 75). It then sets Through these inspirational and edifying revelations, the forth the sacramental prayers and instructs how the sacra- Doctrine and Covenants teaches and reiterates important ment is to be administered (see vv. 76–79).

52 Section 107 defines the presiding quorums of the regarding the will of the Lord. Hyrum was eager to engage Church, including the First Presidency (see v. 22), the in missionary work, but the Lord counseled him to be Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (see vv. 23, 33, 35), and patient and wait for the coming forth of the Book of the Quorums of the Seventy (see vv. 25, 34, 38). Mormon: Because the Doctrine and Covenants teaches important “Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain principles and procedures concerning the governance of my word, and then shall your tongue be loosed; then, if the Church, it acts as the constitutional foundation of the you desire, you shall have my Spirit and my word, yea, the latter-day Church. power of God unto the convincing of men” (v. 21). The Doctrine and Covenants is also a rich source for This verse not only underscores the importance of the personal revelation and inspiration. Like all scripture, it Book of Mormon in missionary work but also has served unlocks spiritual insights for those who earnestly study as a source of inspiration to countless missionaries prepar- and ponder its teachings. While the original revelation ing to teach the gospel. may have been intended for someone in an earlier time, The Doctrine and Covenants contains a remarkable the words are no less powerful for us today. Ponder, for variety of teachings. Section 76 reveals the degrees of glory example, the instruction given in the hereafter. Section 84 reveals through the Prophet Joseph Smith the covenant of the priesthood in to his father regarding missionary a way not found in other scripture. service. These words have pro- Section 89 reveals rules of health vided inspiration to subsequent and related promises of obedience. generations of missionaries depart- Section 132 reveals eternal mar-

ing for their fields of labor: . B arrett riage. Sections 110, 127, 128, and “Therefore, O ye that embark 138 describe the importance of in the service of God, see that work for the dead. The magnitude ye serve him with all your heart, and depth of the teachings in this

might, mind and strength, that ye T i on by R obert Illustrat great book offer a treasure trove of may stand blameless before God Through the Doctrine and Covenants we learn inspiration and instruction for all at the last day” (D&C 4:2). that Jesus Christ played a major role in the members of the Church. Verse 8 of section 109, part early councils that planned our universe, and Even young Mary Elizabeth of the dedicatory prayer for the that He was chosen as the Savior of mankind. and Caroline Rollins recognized Kirtland Temple, refers to an earlier the importance of the revelations revelation commanding the Saints to build a temple. The contained in the Doctrine and Covenants. Following their beautiful words of this verse provide inspiration to families courageous rescue of the original manuscripts, the Church throughout the Church who are striving to establish righ- eventually published the Book of Commandments. In teous and loving homes: appreciation, leaders gave a copy to Mary Elizabeth. Later “Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, and in her life she modestly wrote, “They got them bound in establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fast- small books and sent me one, which I prized very highly.” 7 ing, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, This great book of scripture is indeed a gift. May we all a house of order, a house of God.” prize it highly. ◼

Notes Getting the Most from Our Study 1. “Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner,” The Utah Genealogical and We get more out of the Doctrine and Covenants when Historical Magazine, vol. 17 ( July 1926): 196. 2. “Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner,” 196. we understand the historical context of each revela- 3. “Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner,” 196. 4. Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Order and Will of God,” Ensign, Jan. 1989, 2. tion. The Lord directed the revelation in section 11, for 5. Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and example, to the Prophet’s brother Hyrum, who had trav- Covenants,” Ensign, May 1987, 83. 6. John A. Widtsoe, The Message of the Doctrine and Covenants (1969), 117. eled from Palmyra to Harmony, Pennsylvania, to inquire 7. “Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner,” 196; emphasis added.

ensign JANUARY 2009 53 Nourishing the Soul through Institute By helping students draw closer gospel principle better. As a result, my life has changed. to Heavenly Father, make friends, Among the many blessings I have received by attend- and set priorities, institute strengthens ing institute are improved family relationships and an testimonies and changes lives. increased interest in the scriptures. It has also increased my testimony. Before attending institute, I wasn’t sure that I wanted to serve a mission. Now I know that serving a Strengthening My Testimony mission is what I need to do. I am frequently surprised at what I can learn at institute. Institute has been a wonderful experience for me. I don’t remember ever attending class without coming away It has helped me understand and obey the Church’s having learned something new or understanding some standards. The doctrines of the Church are the means of salvation and exaltation, and I am grateful to be able to Institute is a great place to learn the gospel and build be learning about them at institute. friendships with other Latter-day Saints. Alberto Avilez Rodríguez, Mexico A Prophetic Promise “Don’t neglect the opportunity of attend- Changing My Goals ing seminary and institute classes. In sacrament meeting one Sunday, I listened intently to Participate and gain all you can from a speaker talk about institute. He shared the words of Elder the scriptures taught in these great L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, saying, religious-education settings. They will “[Institute] has enriched my life, and I know it will do the prepare you to present the message of the restored gospel same for you. It will put a shield of protection around you to to those you have opportunity to meet.” keep you free from the temptations and trials of the world.” 1 Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Raising the Bar,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 48. It was then I realized that the truth of Elder Perry’s words had manifested itself to me already. How grateful I was for the blessings that had come to me because I attended institute. Not long before, I had begun an institute class on the teachings of Isaiah. To this day it remains the most life-altering class I have ever taken. That semester had been a confusing time for me; not all of my goals and priorities were in line Showing Faith with the principles of the gospel. However, I attended institute My love for institute started back in seminary. I regularly and participated in numerous one-on-one discus- joined the Church at age 14, and I had a thirst for sions about Church doctrine with the institute instructor. Over knowledge. I enjoyed learning about the gospel and time, as my ideas changed, I slowly and carefully altered my loved the admirable friends and teachers I met along goals to fit the Lord’s plan for me. the way. It wasn’t until hearing Elder Perry’s quote in sacrament At times attending seminary was difficult. My family, meeting that Sunday that I realized exactly how these new who are not members of the Church, weren’t sup- goals were blessing me. My entire life was significantly bet- portive of my attendance. But with help from other ter when I attended institute. I was much more receptive to Latter-day Saints, I was able to go to early-morning the Spirit and succumbed to temptations far less frequently. seminary. My family could see that I was serious about My attitude and my outlook had improved because of my my membership in the Church. It was my way of going attendance. the extra mile. Krista Wren, Arizona, USA Just as seminary enriched my life when I was a Note

R eier by Matthew Photo illustration le f t: Far 1. L. Tom Perry, “Receive Truth,” Ensign, Nov. 1997, 61–62. teenager, institute has enriched my life during my

Ensign January 2009 55 Institute is for single and married students, generally ages 18 to 30.

Finding New Friends A few years after my mission, I moved to a city where I didn’t know anybody. I went to institute expecting to make new friends and begin socializing with other young single adults in the area, as I had previously done. Initially, however, I found this difficult. No one was unkind, but there seemed to be little going on, and I sometimes felt lonely and distanced from those who already knew each other well. In contrast, I quickly made good friends outside of the Church. young adult years. I have treasured up the words of Christ It sometimes seemed that not going to institute in my heart and in my mind (see D&C 6:20; 84:85). These would be easier than going. I didn’t have a ride, teachings helped me serve the Lord more effectively as a so I would have to walk or cycle each week to get missionary. there. I had found good friends with similar inter- I am grateful for institute and know that it is an inspired ests elsewhere. Besides, I had already graduated program because I have seen its blessings in my life and in from institute. the lives of others. However, as I thought about all of these reasons Malinda Morrison, Western Australia, Australia not to go, I remembered how much I had grown in the past because of the lessons I learned and friends I made at institute. Institute had nurtured my testimony Growing Closer to the Lord and helped me better understand the Lord’s plan for Ever since I began to attend institute regularly, tre- me. I decided to keep attending, and I am glad I did. mendous spiritual blessings have entered my life. I have Gradually during that year I did make good friends developed Christlike love for my fellow institute students, at institute. I received invitations to social events and my faith in the Lord is growing stronger, and I have drawn over time became much more involved. closer to Jesus Christ through scripture study. The lessons give me direction by helping me understand better how to use my agency. They help me face challenges with a positive viewpoint, and I have learned that God is always near to help me overcome my struggles. When I attend institute, I find answers to my questions. Each time I put into practice the teachings from my classes, other things in my life seem to fall into their proper places a little more easily. I feel that participating in institute is one of the best ways I can use my time while I am young. Ngozichi Okwandu, Abia, Nigeria

56 It was hard to attend institute in a new area at first, but because I kept going anyway, I have received many spiritual and social blessings that I could not have received otherwise. Dave J. Green, England, United Kingdom

Coming Home Alberto Krista I was living away from home for the first time when my parents sepa- rated. It was only my first month of college, and as my family life shifted, I struggled to understand the meaning of the word home. When my parents divorced and my family moved out of the home I had lived in for the last 18 years, I was especially confused. I knew I wasn’t homeless, but I certainly felt that way. I have often heard the Church described as a “refuge from the storm” (D&C 115:6). Institute became that refuge for me as I battled this new storm in my life. I enrolled in institute, and while I don’t recall the exact words spoken in the lessons, I will never forget the feelings of peace and comfort that came to me as I listened. I began to discover the love my Heavenly Father has for me, Malinda Ngozichi and I became much more closely acquainted with the best counselor I have ever found: Jesus Christ. I have to pay for my college education, yet I learn the most valuable les- sons from institute classes, which are available to me for free. I see now that the definition of home isn’t necessarily the house in which you grow up but a place where life’s lessons are taught and love abounds. Because of what I learned and the Spirit I felt, institute has become a new home for me. It is wonderful having a place where I feel loved and welcome. ◼ Suzanne Goble, Utah, USA

Dave Suzanne

How Do I Find an Institute Program Near Me? Visit http://institute.lds.org for information about any of the more than 500 institute locations world- wide. In many cases, you can register for classes online. Don’t have Internet access? Your bishop or branch president has a list of institute locations. ustration by Matthew R eier by Matthew Photo i ll ustration Left: L    V   H When our van burst into ames, we thought we had lost everything. BY LINDA REHART burned, except for one pristine, undamaged item—my temple recommend. At that moment I suddenly realized s night descended, our family set out on a long-awaited I had been focusing on the wrong things. The most impor- vacation to Utah, a trip that would include taking two tant things—our testimonies of the gospel and our personal A of our daughters to college. Our minivan was lled safety—were intact. with suitcases, boxes, dishes, a violin, a computer, and more— We called a tow truck as well as a friend in the area who vacation needs for seven family members and college agreed to pick us up. While we waited, I continued sifting necessities for our daughters. through our things. In one box I discovered a daughter’s As we crossed the California-Nevada border, all of us music, including a hymnbook. Seeing this, another daughter were asleep except for one of our daughters who was driv- said, “Oh, Alison, play some hymns!” During all the commotion ing. Thirty miles east of Las Vegas the van jerked suddenly, Alison had somehow kept her small case and violin with her. so my daughter quickly pulled over to the side of the road. Our family sat in a circle on the ground while Alison started Steam emerged from under the hood. My husband jumped playing hymns. Gradually the rest of us began to sing. As the out of the car to inspect it and immediately returned, yelling music lled the air in the early morning light, the most incred- for the re extinguisher. We were so dazed from sleeping ible feeling of peace came over us. The highway patrolman that he had to alert us to the problem. As soon as we saw who had been standing nearby was amazed that we could be the  ames darting from under the hood, we jumped out of so calm. When the tow-truck driver arrived, he surveyed the the van, grabbing everything we could. Then we watched in scene in disbelief and, to our astonishment, said, “How can horror as the re spread to the grass, and then to our cargo you be happy? Are you Mormons?” resting on the ground nearby. Helplessly, we watched as the Shortly thereafter our friend arrived and took us to her re consumed most of our things. home. Throughout the days that followed, we were able to My immediate concerns were transportation logistics continue our trip to Utah and home again because of gener- and the loss of needed vacation money. But my children ous Church leaders and friends who provided transportation felt anxious over the loss of clothing, pictures, and pre- and other needed supplies. We even received donations from cious possessions, particularly the loss of one daughter’s complete strangers to replace items we had lost in the re. needed medication. This family experience, though challenging, strengthened By the time the remen arrived and nally extinguished our testimonies of our Heavenly Father’s love for His children. the re, nothing was left of the van but a burned-out shell. Whenever I think of that trip, I recall the peace of the Spirit It took some time for the remains of our belongings to cool we felt that early morning, and I picture our family sitting in so that I could sort through the rubble to see what we could a circle on the ground singing the hymns of Zion as a new salvage. I found my purse partially burned. Reaching for my day dawned. I am grateful for what our experience taught me

wallet, I saw that all the contents were singed or moderately about keeping an eternal perspective. ◼ BY RICHARD HULL ILLUSTRATION

58

Gardenias

in January BY WENDY FOUTZ MCKINNEY few years ago I purchased a lovely gardenia plant. I kept it in a large pot and A tended it with care, enjoying the fragrant blossoms that came once a year. Gardenias typically bloom mid-spring and lie dormant the rest of the year. One year the plant did not produce many blossoms. I won- THE dered what was wrong. I took it inside for the winter and SWEETNESS placed it in a sunlit spot, as I normally did. OF TENDER MERCIES To my surprise, the plant began budding right after Christmas. “When words In January it produced fragrant blossoms. While admiring cannot provide the the beautiful plant, I thought of my friend Anita, who was solace we need or at home enduring the end of a long battle with cancer. Despite express the joy we feel, when it is simply treatments, the cancer had returned three times. Though Anita was futile to attempt to explain that which is only in her 30s, doctors predicted she did not have much time left. unexplainable, when logic and reason It struck me that she might like this hint of spring in her home. cannot yield adequate understanding I took the gardenia to Anita. When I arrived, she said, “How about the injustices and inequities of life, did you know gardenias are my favorite owers?” when mortal experience and evaluation “I didn’t,” I replied, “but Heavenly Father knew. These garde- are insuf cient to produce a desired nias bloomed in January just for you.” outcome, and when it seems that perhaps We were silent for a while marveling at the little miracle. Then we are so totally alone, truly we are blessed she said, “I needed this reminder of spring. Thank you.” by the tender mercies of the Lord and made Anita passed away in February, but during the last weeks of her mighty even unto the power of deliverance life, she enjoyed the sweet fragrance of her favorite ower. Her hus- (see 1 Nephi 1:20).” band even pinned one of the gardenias on the inside of her casket. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum I’m thankful that I was able to witness how the Lord can bless of the Twelve Apostles, “The Tender those He loves during their most dif cult hours. He gave Anita joy Mercies of the Lord,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2005, 100. PHOTOGRAPH BY CRAIG DIMOND during her pain. He gave her gardenias in January. ◼

60 visiting teaching message Visiting Teaching Message

the Lord wants us to live—steadfast Stand Strong and immovable in keeping all of the commandments, not just those that and Immovable in Faith are convenient. This then becomes a process of refinement as we strive to Teach the scriptures Julie B. Beck, general make each day a little better than the and quotations that president: “Latter-day Saint women last” (“Righteous Traditions,” Liahona meet the needs of the must be strong and immovable in and Ensign, May 2008, 14). sisters you visit. Bear their faith. They can and should excel testimony of the doctrine. Invite those in living and sharing their testimo- Why Should I Be Strong and you teach to share what they have felt nies of the Lord Jesus Christ and His Immovable in Faith? and learned. restored gospel. We do this as we: Elder M. Russell Ballard of the “1. Make and keep covenants Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: with Him. “Your faith and your knowledge of “2. Are worthy and worship in His the restoration of the gospel will temples. give you the strength to be faithful “3. Study His doctrine in the scrip- and true to the covenants you have tures and the words of prophets. made with the Lord, and to share “4. Qualify for, recognize, and fol- your strengths and talents gladly to low the Holy Ghost. build up the kingdom of God here “5. Share and defend His gospel. on the earth! Your testimony of Jesus Mosiah 5:15: “Be steadfast and “6. Participate in sincere personal Christ is the most important anchor immovable, always abounding in and family prayer. that you can have to help hold you, good works, that Christ, the Lord God “7. Have family home evening. steadfast and immovable, to prin- Omnipotent, may seal you his, that “8. Live principles of self-reliance ciples of righteousness, regardless of you may be brought to heaven, that and provident living. the challenges and temptations that ye may have everlasting salvation and “These are essential things which may come in the future” (“Steadfast eternal life.” must be done before nonessential in Christ,” Ensign, Dec. 1993, 52). things. These are simple, indispensable Elder Richard G. Scott of the How Can I Stand Strong and practices that almost seem mundane. Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “You Immovable in Faith? . . . No one can do these things for us— cannot today remotely imagine what 3 Nephi 6:14: “The church was these are personal practices and habits that decision to be unwaveringly broken up in all the land save it that set us apart as strong and immov- obedient to the Lord will allow you were among a few of the Lamanites able for that which is correct” (“What to accomplish in life. Your quiet, who were converted unto the true Latter-day Saint Women Do Best: Stand uncompromising determination to faith; and they would not depart Strong and Immovable,” Liahona and live a righteous life will couple you from it, for they were firm, and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 109–10). to inspiration and power beyond steadfast, and immovable, willing Cheryl C. Lant, Primary general your capacity now to understand” with all diligence to keep the president: “Our personal conversion (“Making the Right Decisions,” Ensign,

i on by H enr k A l s ; B ackground Shannon G yg C hr is ten en Photo Illu s trat commandments of the Lord.” comes as we begin to live the way May 1991, 34). ◼

ensign JANUARY 2009 61 Bipolar Disorder

My Lessons in L ove, Hope, and Receiving the diagnosis was Peace devastating. What kind of future would I have?

Name Withheld was diagnosed with bipolar disorder as a college student, shortly after returning I from my mission. Receiving the diag- struggled with the large gap nosis of mood highs and lows was devas- between perfection and where tating. I was already in a deep depression, I I perceived I stood, made and the news sent me reeling. I reevaluated even more obvious by my illness. I my sense of self-worth and wondered how regained hope when I realized that I was going to reconcile my expectations although sin is an imperfection, for my future with this illness. As I learned not all imperfection is sin. more about bipolar disorder, I began to question everything in my life. Fortunately, with the passage of time and through the grace of Heavenly Father, I came through this difficult time a stronger person. My faith was renewed and strengthened. I wish to share some of my experiences with this illness and the lessons I have learned through them. In doing so, I hope to help those with similar challenges and give insight to those with loved ones who struggle with mental illness. I also hope to dispel some misconceptions and increase understanding about people who are men- tally ill.

62 Perfection and Humility The gospel teaches us about perfection and the joy that comes with it, but some of us expect perfection of ourselves instead of seeking to be perfected in Christ. I struggled with the large gap between perfection and where I perceived I stood, made even more obvious by my illness. I regained hope when I realized that although sin is an imperfec- tion, not all imperfection is sin. Believing that we should achieve perfec- tion on our own, some of us ll our lives with crippling guilt and an unforgiving atti- tude toward our inevitable human weakness. We limit our potential for growth through a faithless, unreasonable approach to life. A PHOTOGRAPH BY GETTY IMAGES, MASTERFILE better approach is to channel our weakness so that instead of lling us with self-loathing, it helps us nd humility and strengthen our faith in the Savior. In partnership with Him, we can overcome our weakness as well as our sins. True humility will help us under- stand our worth despite mental illness—or any other human frailty. It engenders con - dence and a realization of the potential each of us has for good.

Hope and Depression Many people suffer from depression at some time in their lives and know its crip- pling effects. Undirected guilt, loneliness, he gospel despair, and feelings of worthlessness are all teaches us distressing symptoms. One can lose the abil- Tabout perfec- ity to perform daily tasks and cope with life’s tion and the joy that various obligations. comes with it, but It is common to hear a talk in which sin some of us expect is identi ed as the cause of depression. Sin perfection of our- certainly can cause us to sink into a deep selves instead of abyss, but it is not the cause of all feelings seeking to be per-

BY CARL BLOCH; PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN LUKE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED BY CARL BLOCH; PHOTOGRAPHS JOHN LUKE UNLESS OTHERWISE OF CHRIST WITH BOY, DETAIL RIGHT: of depression. When we are depressed, we fected in Christ.

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 63 must be willing to honestly look at our lives to try to determine the trigger. If sin is weighing us down, then we must show, as Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, “the faith to try again,” knowing that “spirit sons and daughters of God need not be permanently put down.” 1 The Savior’s Atonement can rescue us from the pains of sin and make us clean again. Depression may not be immediately lifted upon com- plete repentance, but we can still move forward. We can forgive ourselves for the sins for which we have repented rather than allowing sin to harrow our minds and need- lessly prolong our suffering. Through Christ we can overcome our sins and look forward in hope and have our happiness restored in the Lord’s time. In instances when sin is not the cause of depression, it is crucial that we not second- guess ourselves. Feelings of profound guilt are common in people who are depressed. In such circumstances, the guilt is usually not proportional to the trivial mistakes they may have made. Realizing that guilt is unsubstanti- ated may not eliminate it, but this knowledge can temper the severity of these feelings. I have learned  rsthand that feelings of he Lord can guilt are dif cult and require patience, but I strengthen us have also learned that in such times, the Lord Tto meet our can strengthen us to enable us to meet the challenges. Light challenge. Happiness will return, and former will replace dark- capacity will be restored. Light will replace ness, despair will darkness, despair will give way to hope, and give way to hope, life will regain its meaning. and life will regain

its meaning. Peace and Support People dealing with any kind of mental illness will need help weathering the storm;

64 this help might come in the form of a professional coun- selor, a caring friend, or a loving family member. Seeking professional help can be dif cult, but when it is necessary, it can help us cope and nd ful llment. Embarrassment and fear should not prevent our seeking help, robbing us of the good in life. We have a responsibility to ourselves, to the people who love us, and to Heavenly Father to do all we can to overcome our weaknesses and make the most of our lives. Good friends and loving family members can give sup- port and withhold judgment. I am grateful for the people in my life who know my limitations but still accept and love me. I try to serve them as well; it is important that these relationships do not become unbalanced. Each of us has a responsibility to be a good friend and family mem- ber. Everyone needs to serve and be served. Wherever else we nd help, we will need it most from our loving Savior. He has suffered all of our pains and understands us completely (see Alma 7:11 ; see also Isaiah have developed a great appre- 53 ). Through Him we can nd peace, be cleansed from ciation for the power of the sin, and nd the strength to endure our trials. The Savior’s I priesthood. I have learned the loving embrace provides shelter through any trial and love humility to ask for and accept help. in any circumstance. Likewise, approaching our Heavenly I also have an increased desire Father in prayer allows us to plead with Him and receive to honor my priesthood so that I His loving guidance and comfort. might be able to bless others in their time of need. The Priesthood In times of deep depression I have felt lonely and have been unable to feel the peace and love that often accom- pany prayer. In these dark times I have wondered if I have offended God and consequently been cut off from His presence completely. These times are especially trying since the reassurance we need feels impossible to receive. During an especially severe period, I prayed constantly for an answer to a particular problem that was very impor- tant to me. After weeks of frustration I was nally humble enough to ask a good friend who was aware of my illness for a priesthood blessing. I did not mention my speci c question, only that I was having a dif cult time. In the blessing I was given my answer in direct, clear language,

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 65 and I was filled with a peace that soothed my troubled soul. My friend did not realize he had facilitated the answer to my prayer, but I knew that I was not alone. God knew my needs, and although my depression was not immediately healed, He had given me the gifts I needed most: an answer, peace, and hope. Since that experience I have developed a great appreciation for the power of the priesthood. I have learned the humility to ask for and accept help. I also have an increased desire to honor my priesthood so I might be able to bless others in their time of need. I am extremely grateful for worthy priesthood holders who can provide blessings when I need them most.

A Search for Truth Mental illness is unique from other human frailties since it can impair our ability to think, reason, and feel the Spirit. I believe it is for this reason that mental illness is often feared and misunderstood. We live in a wonderful time when the Lord has blessed us with all the marvels of modern science, including improved medication. Where mental illness might once have destroyed lives, many of those who deal with it can herever now control their illness and live relatively else we normal lives. find help, W I am extremely grateful for my testimony. we will need it most As time has passed, it has become clear to from our loving me that those precious experiences that Savior. He has suf- formed the foundation of my testimony fered all of our pains were not valuable only for the time they and understands us were given; they have continued to give me completely. Through strength later in life when I’ve needed to Him we can find rely on the reservoir of faith granted to me peace, be cleansed

by Heavenly Father. Despite the additional and A rt of the Museu m C hurch H istory rane, courtesy he anointed the eyes of blind man, by walter from sin, and find 66the strength to endure our trials. Nothing beyond His Healing Touch “No grief is so great, no pain so profound, no bur- confusion that den so unbearable mental illness can that it is beyond His healing touch.” cause in the search Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of for truth, the Lord the Twelve Apostles, “Special Witnesses of Christ,” Ensign, Apr. 2001, 9. will visit us with His tender mer- cies, blessing us in the hour of our need (see 1 Nephi 1:20). No matter what our circumstances are, God under- stands what we need and how best to give it to us. He is “no respecter of persons” (D&C 38:16) and loves mankind (see John 3:16). He will bless each of us how and when we need it. Regardless of our challenges in life, He loves and guides us individually. Our faith in Him is the anchor for our lives. The grace of Christ is sufficient for all (see 2 Corinthians 12:9), and His love can reach us in any trial. We will struggle from time to time, but we can be sus- tained by faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ. When the Savior was asked, “Master, who did sin, eople dealing with any kind this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?” He of mental illness will need answered, “Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: Phelp weathering the storm. but that the works of God should be made manifest in This may come from a professional him” ( John 9:2–3). Mental illness is not a punishment counselor, a caring friend, or a lov- from God, 2 but His works are manifest in each of us ing family member. when we allow the Atonement to work in our lives. We may not be healed immediately as the blind man was, but no matter what pain we bear, the Savior will heal us. Through His love and sacrifice we can find strength to overcome our trials, since He has already “overcome the world” (D&C 50:41). ◼

Notes 1. “The Tugs and Pulls of the World,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 37. 2. See Alexander B. Morrison, “Myths about Mental Illness,” Ensign, Oct. 2005, 33.

Helps for Those Suffering from Mental Illness If you or a loved one is suffering from mental illness, you can find helpful information online at www.ldsfamilyservices.org. Additional information is available at the Disability Resources section of LDS.org under “Home and Family.”

ensign JANUARY 2009 67 RANDOM SAMPLER

RANDOM SAMPLER

nancial reserve, and when possible, Three-Month Supply NEW YEAR, eventually increase home storage to a • Consider your normal daily diet NEW PROGRESS longer-term supply. and make a list of foods that you can By following these simple guide- purchase, store, and rotate. hen it comes to imple- lines, Church members can prayer- • Choose a few items on your menting a successful home fully consider their circumstances regular shopping list every week to W storage program, the most and set one goal to begin or continue add to your home storage, and pur- important step is to start. With the their own home storage program. As chase double amounts of those items beginning of a new year, now is the we prepare ourselves and our fami- as nances allow. perfect time for individuals and fami- lies for trials and adversity, we will lies to review the First Presidency’s receive temporal security and be able Drinking Water guidelines on home storage in the to “provide for our needs as we walk • Begin to save and clean durable pamphlet All Is Safely Gathered In. in faith and obedience.” 1 Here are a bottles that have been used for soda The First Presidency encourages few ideas that you and your family or juice. Rather than purchasing new all Church members to gradually can begin in 2009. bottles, save the clean and sanitized establish a three-month supply of bottles and use them for water storage. food, store drinking water, set aside a • Purchase a few water bottles every week to add to your home storage water supply. Be sure to rotate your water supply regularly.

Financial Reserve • Add a certain amount of your income to your nancial reserve each month. Set the money aside immediately after paying your tithes and offerings. • Create a budget based on your spending last month. After look- ing at your spending habits, consider limiting the money you use on nonessential items and adding it to your nancial

reserve instead. BY BETH WHITTAKER ILLUSTRATION BY JOE FLORES; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATION LEFT:

68 Family Home Evening Helps

time has evolved to fit our talk about the feelings a family’s needs. Because particular hymn evokes none of us is particularly in us. proficient in music, we Although we try our best Longer-Term Supply often skip hymns that to sing, we often hit wrong • If you have succeeded in gather- are unfamiliar or seem notes, our voices don’t ing a three-month supply, increase Family Singing Time too daunting for us. For always blend, and our your home storage to meet longer- The importance of good the hymns we attempt timing is sometimes off. to sing, my daughter or Most of the time, I’m glad term needs based on your individual music in the home was the focus of a sacrament I sometimes try to plunk no one can hear us. Still, circumstances. meeting that prompted out the tune on the piano. when I hear the children • Learn how to properly package my husband to encourage Other times we sing along humming or singing a and store longer-term food storage a change in our home. with the hymns on CD. hymn we’ve practiced or items, such as wheat, white rice, and Though “musically Most of the time we sing see their faces light up beans. challenged,” we decided to a capella. The children when a familiar hymn sing a hymn to start each take turns leading our is sung at Church, I’m For more information on setting home storage goals, visit www.providentliving.org. evening’s scripture study. singing, which helps grateful we chose to You can also access information printed As we passed out the them to learn basic music enhance our family’s in the Church magazines by going to the hymnbooks and announced skills. Sometimes we also scripture study with Gospel Library on LDS.org and visiting the “Food Storage” entry in the Gospel we were going to begin discuss a hymn’s meaning music. Kimberly Hicken, Topics list. with a song, most of our or the history behind Nevada Note children were skeptical it. Other times, we 1. All Is Safely Gathered In: Family Home Storage (pamphlet, 2007), 1. and somewhat resistant. We pressed forward, however, and decided My “Let It Rain” to begin with the first hymn in the book. We Journal practiced it that week ur stake president encour- and then introduced aged us to start a “Let It Rain” the next hymn the journal. He said that personal following week in family O home evening. revelation is like rain. It comes drop Since then, our singing by drop, and if we would create a reservoir for it, so to speak, in our journal, we’d be surprised at how listening to conference and Church I’d been assigned as her visiting much the Holy Ghost prompts us talks, I took notes in my journal. teacher. every day. He advised us to write in I even recorded seemingly stray Keeping a “Let It Rain” journal has our journal any questions we might thoughts on the right side of the deepened my gospel understand- have and pray about them. When I paper. I soon discovered that these ing, strengthened my testimony, and tried this, I was astounded at how thoughts were often answers to my helped me to be a more effective much personal revelation I had been struggles or promptings to do some- parent, member missionary, Primary overlooking. thing for my family or my calling. teacher, and daughter of God. I am I discovered answers to many Once while watching general con- thankful for a wise stake president of my parenting concerns. I also ference, I kept having an unrelated whose forecast for rain turned out to wrote down my desires for a deeper thought that I should do something be a beautiful, life-changing experi- understanding of gospel prin- for a certain woman in my ward. ence for me. ciples. While studying scriptures or The next Sunday I discovered that Kersten Campbell, Washington

ensign January 2008 69 Latter-Day Saint voices Latter-day Saint Voices

Saint, she always supported me. Never Forget That You Everything had been going well Are a Mormon in my new life as a member of the By Hildo Rosillo Flores Church until I joined in Journalism Day observances in my home coun- try of Peru. At a party I attended, talks henever we fall, when- me years ago, shortly after I joined and complimentary words filled the “ ever we do less than the Church. air. Toasts then followed. As the Wwe ought, in a very real My mother was a decided to party grew, so did the tempta- way we forget mother,” declared member of another quit attend- tion to drink with my friends. President Thomas S. Monson. He Christian church, I ing church. The change that converts to added, “Men turn from evil and yield but she was kind A week later my the Church make when they to their better natures when mother is to the missionar- mother looked me accept the gospel often means remembered.” 1 ies who taught me straight in the that they must make new friends. President Monson’s message has the gospel. Once I eye and told me In some circumstances, as I been a strength to me, so much decided to become something I have learned, former friends can be so that when I first read his a Latter-day always tried to instruments of the adversary to words, they brought to remember. tempt us to break the command- mind my mother and the ments and resume our

wise counsel she gave old ways. i o n s b y Da ni el L ew Illustrat When my co-workers offered me a glass of beer, I took it, drank it, and kept on drinking. At the end of the party, my conscience convicted me. I had fallen. What would my mother say? When I arrived home, I entered quietly and immediately went to bed. My mother said nothing, but I felt ashamed and decided didn’t to quit attending church. know if A week later, as we sat at I our babies the table eating lunch, she would live or looked me straight in the eye die, but I knew and said, “Son, never forget if I turned to the that you are a Mormon.” Lord, He would To go to and from work, help carry my I rode my bicycle by the burden. Church meetinghouse. Every time I did so, my conscience bothered me. One evening I decided I could no longer live with my guilt. I parked my bicycle directly in front of the terminating the pregnancy. She said branch president’s office, went in, Twice Blessed proceeding would be risky and that and requested an interview. By Angela Lee I would have to be hospitalized at I told the branch president what I some point. had done and asked for forgiveness, y life changed forever Despite the dangers, we decided after which he counseled with me. when my husband and I to continue the pregnancy. From that moment on, I have never Mwent to the doctor to check On the drive home I realized the broken the Word of Wisdom. the gender and development of our severity of the situation. I wondered My mother died more than 20 unborn baby. I cried with joy when how I could leave my husband and our years ago, but I have always tried to we discovered that I was expecting three children and stay for an extended remember what she told me never to twins. But my tears turned to ones period in the hospital. Knowing that forget: I am a member of The Church of despair as the doctor explained our babies would likely be delivered of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ◼ that a series of complications made it prematurely—and might not live— Note unlikely that the twins would survive became overwhelming for me. I wasn’t 1. “Behold Thy Mother,” Liahona, Apr. 1998, 4; Ensign, Apr. 1998, 2, 4. until birth. The doctor suggested sure I could endure this trial.

ensign January 2009 71 Latter-Day Saint voices

Only after I received a priesthood I prayed silently, pleading that our and Jacob were able to come home blessing from my husband and father- baby would recover, thus allowing after only 19 days. in-law did I feel peace. I realized that both twins the much-needed time to Our twins are now toddlers, and no matter what the outcome was, my develop in utero. I also prayed for they have no negative effects from family and I would be all right. I felt comfort. Once again I felt peace, just being born prematurely. I am grate- my Savior’s love and knew that He as I had when I received the priest- ful that what began as a trial became would be with us in joy or in sorrow. hood blessing. I didn’t know if our one of the greatest blessings of my Some time later, I said good-bye to babies would live or die, but I knew life. I was given two healthy sons, my family and entered the hospital for that no matter what, if I turned to the and my testimony of the power of an indefinite stay. The babies’ heart Lord, He would help carry my burden. priesthood blessings and prayer was rates were monitored constantly to As it turned out, the baby’s heartbeat strengthened. I am also grateful to be make sure the babies were safe. It was returned to normal, and surgery was able to recall the peace and love I felt difficult for me to see their heart rates no longer necessary. in knowing that the Lord was aware drop, and I wondered if they would My stay at the hospital continued of my situation. I learned then that, make it to the delivery goal of 34 for the next two months, and there with the Lord’s help, we will have the weeks. At 25½ weeks, one baby’s heart were many times we worried about strength to endure our trials. ◼ rate dropped to a critical level, nearly our babies’ fluctuating heart rates. But stopping. The doctors decided that if fortunately, neither of the twins’ heart his heart didn’t start beating normally, rates dropped as low as before. Our Could I Let Go both babies would be delivered by sons, John and Jacob, were born at 33 of My Past? emergency cesarean section within weeks. Their cords were intertwined By Marcos A. Walker minutes. I panicked when I heard the with eight knots, and John—the son nurse call my husband and tell him that whose heart rate had dropped so positive and happy attitude is I was being prepared for surgery and low—had his cord wrapped around indispensable for people work- that the neonatal team was standing by. his neck twice. Our twins stayed in Aing in sales, as I do. Yet several I knew that to get the hospital’s intensive care unit so years ago I was feeling discouraged through this trial, I their body temperatures and breath- and had no desire to talk to anyone. needed Heavenly ing could be regulated. Despite the This was especially true one afternoon. Father’s help. potential problems My countenance must have betrayed associated with pre- my poor spirits because one of my mature births, John co-workers, with whom I had talked on many occasions, inquired about my situation. I explained that after being married for six years, my wife and I had divorced. This month marked the six-year anniversary of the divorce, so I had now been divorced for the same amount of time I had been married. My mind and heart were troubled, and my soul was filled with pain and sorrow. I y soul knew I was missing many was filled of my children’s experi- Mwith ences, and that realiza- pain and sorrow. tion was constant torture. This, I told my Loneliness consumed me, co-worker, was the and I saw no solution— price I had to pay Yes—even though I lived easy, but it has helped me recognize or even hope—on the for my mistakes. with the consequences of my weaknesses and ask forgive- horizon. This, I told my co- my mistakes, Jesus Christ ness of my Heavenly Father and the worker, was the price I had had paid the price. Why people who were most affected—my to pay for my mistakes. had I not realized this? I children and their mother. My colleague, who knew the doctrine, and I In contrast with how I felt that was a member of another Christian knew that it was true. Recognizing that afternoon, I can say that I now have church, then responded. “What price the Atonement had power in my life peace and hope. I know that Jesus are you talking about?” he asked. filled me with a feeling of peace and Christ has paid the price, and I have “Jesus Christ has paid the price, if you comfort that I still remember today. no doubt of this because I have have truly repented of your sins. Or Years have passed since this expe- repented. He has sustained me dur- do you not remember why He came rience at work. I have learned that ing these years of trials. Although to earth?” some consequences of our actions my trials continue, I know that as I I was astonished by his reply, and remain with us all of our lives. Many repent, turn to the Lord, and keep the his words left me speechless. They of them affect the lives of our loved commandments, He will continue to resonated inside me all afternoon. ones. The loneliness has not been sustain me. ◼

ensign January 2009 73 T-shirts and helped with Mormon Helping Hands Completes First sandbagging and other relief efforts. The Cedar Rapids Decade of Service Iowa Stake set up a relief warehouse filled with the ervice rendered by wheelbarrows, shovels, and members of the Church work clothes the Church Saround the world sent. As part of the area most comes in many forms, but heavily affected by the flood- over the past 10 years that ing, the stake also received service has usually come in funds to purchase power

one color: yellow. CRAIG DIMOND BY PHOTOGRAPH washers and generators. The Whether rendering emer- community accepted the gency aid after a natural disas- relief efforts with gratitude. ter or cleaning up the local park, the Mormon Helping Improving Communities Hands program, with its While disasters provide bright yellow vests or T-shirts, opportunities to serve, no dis- has become a welcome sign aster is necessary to involve of hope for those in need members in reaching out to during the past decade. their communities. Working Mormon Helping Hands is to improve communities gives a priesthood-directed Church Young women in Hong Kong assemble hygiene kits for those Church members the oppor- program that, teamed up in need. tunity to give their time and with the welfare program of talents to bless others in need the Church, contributes to communities, members spent North America, and the and to show that their com- relief efforts and facilitates time repairing and painting Pacific. munity is important to them. other service projects around schools and hospitals and In November 2007 more the world. cleaning parks, streets, and Providing Relief than 100,000 members in other public spaces. After Hurricane Ike Africa participated in a In the Beginning Not long after the first stormed through the south- continent-wide service Officially established in service day, the idea spread ern United States in 2008, project cleaning up commu- 1998, the Mormon Helping to Brazil, where service con- work crews were organized nities. Their efforts included Hands program was created tinued and the program to help with cleanup. cleaning and landscaping as a way for Church members began to grow. By 2002 the Members in southeast Texas the Red Cross War Memorial in South America to reach organization had been named joined together to clean up Children’s Hospital in Cape out and serve their communi- one of the most important debris left in yards and to dis- Town, South Africa; planting ties. Starting in Argentina, volunteer organizations in tribute hygiene kits, cleaning more than 50 trees in Paraguay, Uruguay, and Chile, Brazil because of the good it kits, and food boxes in areas Olivenhoutbosch, South Church leaders designated brought to the people. devastated by the storm. Africa; filling potholes and an annual day of service for Today, millions of hours Local bishops’ storehouses clearing glass and rubble members to give of their time of service have been donated stocked with food, water, along roads in Kitale, Kenya; and efforts in a prepared by hundreds of thousands tools, and other necessary and repairing playground service project. of volunteers in all areas of supplies provided resources equipment. During this first official the world. What began as a for those in need. At the conclusion of the organized effort, tens of multinational service project When flooding killed project, Nikki Bishop, CEO of thousands of Church mem- in a few countries of South some 20 people in the mid- the Red Cross War Memorial bers of all ages in South America turned into a world- western United States and Children’s Hospital, com- America collaborated to par- wide relief effort for people left thousands homeless in mented that “the difference ticipate in a multinational in need. The program cur- 2008, Church members and this is going to make to the service project. In an effort to rently operates in Africa, missionaries donned yellow children, parents, staff, and strengthen and beautify their Asia, Europe, Latin America, Mormon Helping Hands visitors will be enormous. We

74 are deeply grateful. The proj- ect has gone tremendously well, transforming the hospi- tal. I am delighted and thrilled.”

Strengthening Members CRAIG DIMOND BY PHOTOGRAPH One of the important principles taught by Jesus Christ and lived by His fol- lowers is that of service: “And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom, that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). Not only do Mormon Helping Hands projects accomplish much good for those in need by making Mormon Helping Hands volunteers in Louisiana, USA, help clear debris following Hurricane use of the time and talents Katrina in 2005. of members, but they also bless those rendering the officials, and private busi- In September 2006 mem- bridges in communities and service. They help members nesses, some 50,000 Church bers in the Bristol England organizations. ■ become more sensitive to members and friends worked Stake worked within their the challenges others face. As together in April 2005 to community to improve a members follow the example improve the conditions of struggling community farm. Web Extends of the Savior, their testi- 200 schools in São Paulo, In one day members were monies are strengthened, Brazil. Painting doors, clean- able to work on a wheelchair Distribution and by serving together, ing classrooms, and repairing access path; paint; dig; clean; members become more desks were some of the ways and build educational toys, Services’ united. volunteers served in the bird boxes, and feeders for “First of all, it helps us schools. the farm. More than 2,500 Reach internally,” said Mike Martin, Such service events bring hours of service were given, or many members of then president of the many different groups of peo- and the improvement was the Church who need Pretoria South Africa Stake, ple together; these people noticeable. The local mayor FChurch materials and after the 2007 All-Africa improve the areas and form visited the farm, expressed supplies, such as pictures, Helping Hands Day. “We are friendships. Relationships his gratitude, and said how temple clothing, scriptures, better able to bond with developed while giving serv- impressed he was with what or other distribution items, each other, and it develops ice can build bridges of under- had been accomplished. getting to a distribution cen- unity; but really it is great standing and strengthen Through the Mormon ter can be costly and time just to be out there in the relationships with officials Helping Hands organization, consuming, even with many community, see some of the and the community. Church members worldwide such centers around the issues that people face, and Mormon Helping Hands have rendered service, world. try in a small way to make a projects are not meant to improved communities, “We still have many, many little bit of a difference.” be proselytizing activities. and formed friendships. The members of the Church who Rather they are meant to be service projects have not are hours away [from a cen- Building Bridges opportunities to promote only touched lives but also ter] who can have products In partnership with gov- Christian service that might have deepened the faith of right at their fingertips— ernment leaders, education not otherwise occur. those involved and built shipped directly to their door

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 75 so they don’t have to travel and designed to serve most coordinator for Distribution magazines, and other new to a distribution center,” said of Europe is currently being Services. “At local distribu- products. Jim Christensen, manager developed. tion centers there are often Curriculum items are cur- of product development for Members can access space restrictions. Online rently available through the Church Distribution Services. all of the sites by going to you can get everything that Web site in English, Spanish, LDSCatalog.com and clicking we offer.” and French. Gospel study LDSCatalog.com on Country Sites at the top materials, manuals, catalogs, Distribution Services uses of the page. From Clothing to Curriculum and other resources are the Internet to expand the The materials offered The Web site allows buyers available to benefit homes, shopping options available online are available for to purchase items or leads wards, and branches. Church to members of the Church. the same price as at distri- them to where they can find units can order curriculum Country Web sites have been bution centers, and items more information on what material for all auxiliaries created to serve specific areas ordered in the U.S. and they are looking for. for the year from the site, throughout the world. Canada are sent without The Web site has a along with specific materials Included in those areas is shipping fees. section entitled “New catering to the needs of a site based in Argentina, a The site often gives pur- Items,” which identifies members with limited sight site based in Australia, and chasers more options than products recently made and hearing and other a site for members in the a distribution center. “There available, such as pictures disabilities. United States and Canada. A is a greater selection,” said of newly dedicated temples, Information regarding Web site based in Germany Steve Argyle, presentations current issues of the Church family history work, includ- ing supplies for family history centers, census information, hints on how to begin, and other useful resources, are available to help those who would like to get started in family history work. Software downloads are also available through Distribution Services. For artwork prints seen in the Church Materials Catalog, visitors to the Web site can search for artwork by title or by artist, making prints more readily available to members around the world.

Finding the Right Way Brother Argyle said that Distribution Services makes materials available to mem- bers in a variety of ways, including telephone, FAX, and mail orders. The Web sites are one more way to achieve that goal. “The Web site is just one part of a plan that makes LDSCatalog.com makes Church Church materials available materials available to many to all Church members,” members worldwide. said Brother Argyle. ■

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

WORLD BRIEFS Church Museum Gets Family History Consultants British Genealogist Lectures Hawaiian Book of Mormon Name Change Supported Online in Salt Lake City on Display To align itself with To help support family Distinguished British An original copy of the other Church entities, history consultants, the genealogist Colin R. Chapman 1855 edition of Ka Buke a including the new Church Family History Department lectured at the Family History Moramona—the Hawaiian History Library now under is developing new online Library in Salt Lake City in translation of the Book of construction, the Museum tools and services. These will October 2008 on the topics Mormon—went on display of Church History and include access to up-to-date “Was Your Ancestor Really at the Laie Hawaii Temple Art in Salt Lake City is training and new systems, Married?” and “Genealogy Visitors’ Center in November now the Church History services, and products. in Early British Censuses, 2008. Only 3,000 copies Museum. The museum Information, updates, 1086 to 1841.” Mr. Chapman of the 1855 edition were showcases the Mormon and helpful hints will be helped establish six British printed, and only some experience, with perma- e-mailed periodically to county genealogical societies 200 of them were bound. nent galleries as well as registered participants. and is the author of 14 books Due to a fire a few years temporary exhibits on Consultants can register on family history. He was after printing, only 15 specific themes. There at http://consultant.family involved in developing the to 30 copies of the rare are guided as well as self- search.org with their unit three-letter Chapman County edition are believed to guided tours. The museum number and Church Code, which has become exist today. ■ is open Monday through membership number. the international standard Saturday. Admission is free. in family history work.

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 77 SERVING IN THE COMMUNITY As with other major In the Democratic Water Project Provides humanitarian initiatives, the Republic of Congo, more clean water projects incor- than 400 people are dig- More than Just Water porate principles of self- ging a 30-kilometer trench s water sprayed allowing villagers to spend reliance and sustainability. A and laying pipe to create a from a new well less time fetching water, the community water committee gravity-fed water system. A drilled into the wells also enable families to becomes responsible for The four-year project Kenyan countryside, vil- spend more time together maintaining the system. The will benefit an estimated lagers from the Makueni and children to attend Church supplies the com- 160,000 people, making it region shouted for joy. school more frequently. mittee with the necessary the largest clean water proj- Some danced. Some cried. In July 2008 in the neigh- tools and trains them on ect the Church has funded. It meant no more 30-kilo- boring district of Mwingi, the hygiene so they can use the With an estimated 23 meter walks to fetch water Church, with help from the water safely and properly. projects in progress for in lieu of drinking from local residents, built 30 wells While local contractors 2008, the clean water ini- contaminated rivers. that serve 56,000 people. take care of major construc- tiative continues to touch The Church’s clean Around the same time, 20 tion elements like drilling, hundreds of thousands of water initiative is providing wells in Masinga, Kenya, were community members are lives. Since 2002 the proj- remote communities like also completed, serving expected to help, digging ects have provided more Makueni with hand-pump 32,000 people. Seven other trenches, moving pipe, and than four million people in wells to reduce water- projects in the country are in mixing cement, among other 50 countries with access to borne diseases. But by process. things. clean water. ■ PHOTOGRAPH BY MATTHEW HEAPS MATTHEW BY PHOTOGRAPH Kenyans in the Makueni region celebrate as water sprays from a new borehole.

78 ending in October. leading into the isolated vil- Church Sends Atmit As in 2003, the Church lage and restrictions placed worked closely with Project on missionary travel, baptism to Ethiopia Mercy, a nongovernmental remained something the relief agency with experience nonmembers only read and he Church sent more the country has also dealt in Ethiopia. In close coordi- dreamed about. than 1.4 million pounds with high food prices, a nation with the Ethiopian Realizing the people’s sin- T(635 tonnes) of Atmit— number of disasters, and government, Project Mercy cere desire, Brother Souza special food for the severely a rebellion in the Somali oversaw the distribution of traveled six hours to Iquitos, malnourished—to drought- region that disrupted food the Atmit. the capital city in the region, stricken Ethiopia in late delivery. Atmit is a mixture of oat and spoke to the stake presi- 2008. Remembering the aid the flour, powdered milk, sugar, dent of the area about the sit- At least 14 million Church provided during the salt, vitamins, and minerals uation. The stake president, Ethiopians were in need of 2003 famine, government that is mixed with water and along with the nearest mis- assistance. While the crisis officials in Ethiopia requested cooking oil and has proven sionaries, planned a way to stemmed from a drought help. The Church sent more to be a successful resource provide the loyal followers that destroyed the entire than 30 containers of Atmit, for feeding the severely from San Regis the opportu- spring crop in some places, beginning in late August and malnourished. ■ nity to be baptized. Nauta, a town situated on the edge of the Amazon Aid Brings Hope to City in Iraq and 58 miles (93 km) from fter a hot Iraqi summer and hope for the future. local children prepare for the Iquitos, served as the meet- filled with drought, dust The effort was the result new school year and aiding ing point since it was the Astorms, and devastating of a large donation by the many of their families as well. closest the missionaries could suicide bombings in Tal Afar, Church. More than 3,000 The school supplies included get to San Regis. This meant Iraq, a timely donation to lo- boxes of school supplies, baby notebooks, pencils, scissors, a perilous boat ride through cal elementary schools gave clothes, hygiene kits, and toys and a bag for the children’s dense jungle and predator- students new school supplies were donated, helping the schoolbooks. ■ infested waters for the San Regis believers. However, upon hearing the news of the Young Adults Travel the Amazon missionary meeting, many in San Regis desired to make for the Gospel the trip despite the danger. ading in a murky the travelers had come to villagers at the Sunday serv- With room in the boat for river, home to pira- hear the gospel of Jesus ices were baptized members only 15, Brother Souza and Wnhas and anacondas, Christ and be baptized. of the Church. With no roads his son went with 13 selected 15 travelers acted quickly to Reaching their destination remove the water from their wet, but hungry to hear sinking handcrafted wooden about the restored gospel of boat. When it was empty, they Jesus Christ from the full- reboarded and continued to time missionaries, seven navigate on faith and hope youth and young adults through the rough Amazon received the saving ordi- River waters. nances for which they had The dangerous boat waited for years. ride from San Regis, a Each week for the previ- village tucked in the densely ous three years, 30 people

packed Amazon rainforest of attended the Church meet- JAKE BRANDENBURG BY PHOTOGRAPH northeastern Peru, to the ings held at Miguel Souza’s Thirteen investigators traveled four hours by boat on the closest city missionaries house in San Regis. Other Amazon River in Peru to hear the missionaries. Seven were could reach was a four-hour than Brother Souza and baptized; the others returned home with the goal to continue voyage toward salvation— his son, David, none of the preparing.

ENSIGN JANUARY 2009 79 youth and young adults to After learning from the mis- The temple serves Jones along with a small Nauta. sionaries over two days, the approximately 264,000 mem- group of missionaries to Obstacles immediately group went to a remote bers of the Church who Mexico City, where they dis- sprang up for those making lagoon in the Peruvian jun- live in Mexico City and the tributed brochures to several the journey. People of other gle, where the seven who states of Mexico, Guerrero, Mexican leaders. One of these faiths in the village tried to were ready received the Guanajuato, Morelos, Baja brochures fell into the hands persuade them to give up ordinances of baptism and California Sur, Michoacán, of Plotino Rhodacanaty, who their dreams, telling them confirmation. Hidalgo, Puebla, Querétaro, later became the first member they were being duped and A day later the travelers and San Luis Potosí. of the Church in Mexico. In that they were already bap- made the long journey back The Mexico City Temple November 1879 the Church’s tized and did not need bap- to their remote village, where was the first of 12 temples first branch in Mexico City tism again. others would prepare for a constructed in Mexico and was organized with Brother Undaunted, they made the future opportunity to make was originally dedicated on Rhodacanaty as branch voyage, surviving the Amazon the same voyage toward December 2, 1983. president. and a nearly capsized boat. salvation. ■ The history of the Church Currently, the Church has in Mexico City traces back 212 stakes and approximately to 1875, when President 1,120,000 members through- Mexico City Temple Brigham Young sent Daniel out the country. ■ Rededicated resident Thomas S. temple closed its doors on Comment Monson formally reded- March 31, 2007, for remodel- Hopeful Help Something for Everyone Picated the Mexico City ing. In October the temple Even though I am not I’m a little behind on Mexico Temple on November opened for a public open single, I enjoyed reading the my reading (just finished 16, 2008, after 19 months of house. Guided tours were article “Single and Steadfast: the July 2008 issue). I found renovation. President Henry B. offered from October 20 Lessons in Hope” in the the article “Making Church Eyring, First Counselor in through November 8, 2008, August 2008 Ensign (p. 20). Magazines” (p. 64) very the First Presidency, also at- excluding Sundays. Latter-day Not only did the principles informative. I would like you tended the rededication. Saints from the region then taught there help me in my to know that I read every After functioning without attended two dedicatory own life, but they helped me issue of the Ensign from interruption for 25 years, the sessions. better understand what my 16- cover to cover—even the year-old daughter was going articles that do not fit me through. As she had not been personally—or so I thought. asked out to an upcoming I have found something of dance, I was able to help her value that I can use in my maintain a more positive out- life in every article—even if look about herself and the sit- at first glance the article did uation. We discussed that even not seem intended for me. though she wasn’t going to So don’t worry about hitting the dance, she was still a right- everyone and all interests. eous, lovable person and the You do that very well. opportunity may present itself Also, the article by Elder in the future. I am thankful the M. Russell Ballard, “Sharing article was published at just the Gospel Using the the right time to help me bet- Internet” (p. 58), was very ter counsel my daughter. I am helpful. What a wonderful sure it will be beneficial in the way to share the gospel for years to come as my other those who are shy and fear children grow up and experi- face-to-face discussions. I ence similar issues. Thank you. feel enlightened! ■ Dana Randall Lynda Sessions Mexico City Mexico Temple. Utah, USA Oregon, USA

80 “By Small and Simple Things Are Great Things Brought to Pass” (Alma 37:6), by David Koch Young Lucy Mack Smith reads the Bible to her sons Joseph and Hyrum in the log home near the Sacred Grove, in Palmyra Township, New York. From this humble beginning, Joseph grew to become prophet of the last dispensation, through whom the fulness of the gospel was restored to the earth. On June 27, 1844, these two boys—then grown men—died as martyrs and witnesses to the truthfulness of the Restoration. “When but 14 years young man [ of age, this courageous Joseph later wouldSmith] entered be called a grove of trees, which sacred, and received to his sincere an answer prayer. unrelenting Joseph “There persecution for related followed as he glorious received account of the in that to others vision he the was ridiculed he and scorned,grove. stood firm. Although he knew God seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that ‘I had Said he, dared I do it’” it, neither it, and I could not deny ( Smith— Joseph History 1:25). So writes S. Monson as one of the President Thomas Prophet Smith. See page 10. witnesses of the Joseph present-day

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