LiahonaThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints • July 2010 Into All the World, p. 24 Sharing the Gospel without Being Defensive, p. 30 Blessings of Sexual Purity, pp. 14, 42 I Was a Convert, but Was I Converted? p. 50 Sunday School’s Role in Teacher Improvement, p. 74 Benbow FarmandPond,byFrankMagleby Earth,” page24. deeded their GadfieldElm chapel tothe Church.“To See Fillthe AllbutonewaseventuallyBrethren. baptized.Laterthat yearthey tion: over600peoplewho had their formed ownchurch, the United baptizedinthispondonthe13 peoplewere Benbowfarm. to jointhem what inhearing had the tosay. missionary Asaresult, John, andhisfamily. then invitedthe The neighbors Benbowbrothers Benbow traveledtotheteach area Herefordshire William’s brother, William andAnnBenbow.converts ElderWoodruff andBrother inHanley, England,where heTwelve Apostlesarrived metrecent They also introduced ElderWoodruffThey totheir congrega alsointroduced former - In March 1840,ElderWilford Woodruff ofthe ofthe Quorum

Courtesy of First International Art Competition Liahona, July 2010

24

Messages 18 Choose the Temple Departments By Richard M. Romney 4 First Presidency Message: 8 Small and Simple Things Faithful Friends Latter-day Saints in India testify By President Henry B. Eyring of the blessings of marrying in 10 We Talk of Christ: He Can the temple. Heal Any Wound 7 Visiting Teaching Message: By Sylvia Erbolato Christensen Strengthening Families and 24 To Fill the Earth 11 Serving in the Church: Homes The Church of Jesus Christ is Blessed by My Calling now spread across the world. By Judith Castillo Martelo These images testify of that Feature Articles growth. 14 What We Believe: Sexual Purity Blesses Our Lives Finding a Home in the Gospel Sharing the Gospel with 12 30 Gospel Classics: What Did By Rozelle Hastwell Hansen Confidence 16 the Pioneers Bring? By Elder M. Russell Ballard I was thousands of miles from By President Stephen L Richards home, but when I walked We need to act confidently— into the chapel for the first secure in the knowledge of who 38 Latter-day Saint Voices time, it was like I had come we are and what we stand for. home. 74 News of the Church 79 Family Home Evening Ideas Until We Meet Again: Fight, On the cover 80 Front: Dedication of Russia, by Flee, or Take the Blows? Emin Zulfugarov. Back: Ready for By R. Val Johnson the Covenant, by Erick Duarte.

July 2010 1 Young Adults Youth Children

46 70

42

42 Dear Frieda 46 To the Point 58 He Told Me, “No Way” Young adults write letters of By Truman E. Benson Poster: 40 Years in counsel to a young woman who 48 I thought my friend would do the Making is questioning whether to move anything I dared him to do. in with her boyfriend. 49 Our Space Until today, that is. 50 How I Know: Growing 60 Lead Me, Guide Me into Knowing By Anne-Mette Howland By Sonia Padilla-Romero We were lost in a new town, 52 Things Will Work Out so we prayed for help. By Elder Erich W. Kopischke A Prophet’s Pledge I held on to my testimony, 62 By President Thomas S. Monson and it helped me stay active, especially in my youth. President Monson tells a story from his own family about how See if you can A Forever Family important our testimonies are. find the Liahona 56 By Joshua J. Perkey hidden in this Sharing Time: I Can Follow Despite her family’s loss, 64 issue. Jesus Christ’s Example Uanci finds comfort in By Sandra Tanner and Cristina knowing that her family Franco has been sealed for eternity. 66 Pioneer Parasols By Marli Walker Two pioneer girls, Christiana and Sarah, got to take their parasols on the long journey. Could they give them up when 52 they had to? 68 Our Page 70 For Young Children

2 Liahona July 2010 Vol. 34 No. 7 LIAHONA 09287 More Online Official international magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Liahona.lds.org The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Boyd K. Packer, For Adults L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd “Choose the Temple” (page 18) is about Latter-day Christofferson, Neil L. Andersen Saints in India who enjoy the blessings of the Editor: Spencer J. Condie Advisers: Keith K. Hilbig, Yoshihiko Kikuchi, temple. To view more photos from this story, visit Paul B. Pieper www.liahona.lds.org. Managing Director: David L. Frischknecht Editorial Director: Victor D. Cave Senior Editor: Larry Hiller Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg For Young Adults Managing Editor: R. Val Johnson Assistant Managing Editors: Jenifer L. Greenwood, In “Dear Frieda” (page 42) young adults in Adam C. Olson Associate Editor: Ryan Carr Scandinavia write letters to a young woman Assistant Editor: Susan Barrett Editorial Staff: David A. Edwards, Matthew D. Flitton, who is tempted to move in with her boyfriend. LaRene Porter Gaunt, Annie Jones, Carrie Kasten, Jennifer Maddy, Melissa Merrill, Michael R. Morris, Sally J. Odekirk, To learn more about this topic, visit www. Joshua J. Perkey, Chad E. Phares, Jan Pinborough, gospeltopics.lds.org and click on “Chastity.” Richard M. Romney, Don L. Searle, Janet Thomas, Paul VanDenBerghe, Julie Wardell Senior Secretary: Laurel Teuscher Art Director: Scott Van Kampen Production Manager: Jane Ann Peters Design and Production Staff: Cali R. Arroyo, Collette Nebeker Aune, Howard G. Brown, Julie For Youth Burdett, Thomas S. Child, Reginald J. Christensen, Kim Fenstermaker, Kathleen Howard, Eric P. Johnsen, Denise If you enjoy reading “To the Point” (page 46), Kirby, Scott M. Mooy, Ginny J. Nilson Prepress: Jeff L. Martin you can view more questions and answers Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick (in English) at www.newera.lds.org. Click on Distribution Director: Randy J. Benson For subscriptions and prices outside the United States and “Got a Question?” Canada, contact your local Church distribution center or ward or branch leader. Send manuscripts and queries to Liahona,­ Rm. 2420, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150- 0024, USA; or e-mail: [email protected]. For Children The Liahona­ (a Book of Mormon term meaning “compass” or “director”) is published in Albanian, Print out a pioneer coloring book at Armenian, Bislama, Bulgarian, Cambodian, Cebuano, www.liahona.lds.org. Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Fijian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Color the picture of David and Goliath on Hungarian, Icelandic, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Kiribati, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Malagasy, page 72. Then read the scripture story of David Marshallese, Mongolian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Samoan, Sinhala, Slovenian, Spanish, and Goliath (in English) at www.friend.lds.org. Swedish, Tagalog, Tahitian, Tamil, Telugu, Thai, Tongan, Ukrainian, Urdu, and Vietnamese. (Frequency varies by language.) © 2010 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. Text and visual material in the Liahona­ may be copied for incidental, noncommercial church or home use. Visual material may not be copied if restrictions are indicated In Your Language in the credit line with the artwork. Copyright questions should be addressed to Intellectual Property Office, 50 E. The Liahona and other Church materials North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA; e-mail: [email protected]. are available in many languages at www. For Readers in the United States and Canada: languages.lds.org. July 2010 Vol. 34 No. 7. LIAHONA (USPS 311-480) English (ISSN 1080-9554) is published monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150. USA subscription price is $10.00 per year; Canada, $12.00 plus applicable taxes. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah. Sixty days’ notice required for change of address. Include address label from a recent issue; old and new address must be included. Send USA and Canadian subscriptions to Salt Lake Distribution Center at address below. Subscription help line: 1-800-537-5971. Credit card orders (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) may be taken by phone. (Canada Poste Information: Publication Agreement #40017431) POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Salt Lake Distribution Center, Church Magazines, PO Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368. July 2010 3 First Presidency Message

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

Faithful Friends

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

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

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

July 2010 5 First Presidency Message Children Jesus Christ,

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

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

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

6 Liahona Visiting Teaching Message

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

From the Scriptures: Genesis 18:19; Mosiah 4:15; What Can From Our History D&C 93:40; Moses 6:55–58 We Do? From the beginning Relief Society has had a charge to strengthen families and 1. What ideas for strengthening fam- homes. The Prophet Joseph taught sisters at Strengthening at Every Opportunity ilies and homes will an early Relief Society meeting, “When you “Each of us is in a different family situation. you share with your sisters? As you pon- go home, never give a cross or unkind word Some families have a mother and father with der their individual to your husbands, but let kindness, charity circumstances, the children at home. Some couples no longer have 2 Spirit can bring ideas and love crown your works henceforward.” children at home. Many members of the Church to your mind. In 1914 President Joseph F. Smith told are single, and some are single parents. Others 2. What priorities Relief Society sisters, “Wherever there is are widows or widowers living alone. can you change this ignorance or at least a lack of understanding month to better “No matter what our family looks like, each strengthen your own in regard to the family, . . . there this organi- of us can work to strengthen our own families or family and home? zation exists or is near at hand, and by the help in strengthening others. natural endowments and inspiration that For more information, belongs to the organization they are pre- “[Once] I stayed in the home of my niece and go to www.relief her family. That evening before the children went society.lds.org. pared and ready to impart instruction with reference to those important duties.” 3 to bed, we had a short family home evening and a scripture story. Their father told about the family of Lehi and how he taught his children that they must hold fast to the iron rod, which is the word of God. Holding fast to the iron rod would keep them safe and lead them to joy and happiness. If they should let go of the iron rod, there was dan- ger of drowning in the river of dirty water. “To demonstrate this to the children, their mother became the ‘iron rod’ that they must cling to, and their father played the role of the devil, trying to pull the children away from safety and happiness. The children loved the story and learned how important it is to hold fast to the iron rod. After the scripture story it was time for family prayer. . . . “Scriptures, family home evening, and family prayer will strengthen families. We need to take every opportunity to strengthen families and sup- port one another to stay on the right path.” 1 Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency. obert Casey by R obert photo illustration

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

July 2010 7 Small & Simple Things “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass” (Alma 37:6).

Temple Spotlight

Copenhagen Denmark Temple

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

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

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

sharing personal insights Al and testimony. Left: photograph of meetinghouse by by meetinghouse of photograph Left: imond; right: First Missionaries to I ndia, by Gl en H opkinson, by Craig D imond; right: by Craig D imond; photo i ll ustration not be c opied; photographs by R i hard M . omney may 8 Liahona Church History around the World

India

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

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

July 2010 9 We Talk of Christ

He Can Heal Any Wound

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

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

10 Liahona Serving in the Church

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

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

July 2010 11  Finding a Home in the Gospel By Rozelle Hastwell Hansen

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

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

12 Liahona 

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

Sexual Purity Blesses Our Lives

hastity means being morally and of the sanctity of marriage when he clean in our thoughts, words, tempts us to believe that sexual intimacy and actions. This sexual purity outside of marriage is acceptable as long C 1 is “pleasing unto God.” Our Heavenly as a man and a woman are in love. This is Father has given us the sacred powers of not true. It is a serious sin that defiles the procreation for the purpose of bringing power God has given us to create life. 5 forth children and for the expression of Our Father in Heaven has com- love within marriage between a man and manded all of us to live the law of 1. You can decide now a woman. He has also given us the law chastity. The blessings for obeying this to be chaste and never of chastity to protect us from the damage commandment and the consequences waver. Some may feel that they can commit that comes from sharing physical intima- for breaking it are the same for each of sexual sins with the idea cies outside of marriage. us, regardless of our impulses, desires, that they will simply Heavenly Father has set clear bound- or sexual temptations. repent later. This attitude aries for chastity. He commands us not to If we have committed sexual sins, the shows irreverence for the have any sexual relations before we are Lord will forgive us if we truly repent. 6 Lord’s commandments married. After we are married, we are com- The despair of sin can be replaced with and a lack of understand- manded to be completely faithful to our the sweet peace of forgiveness. 7 ing of repentance and spouse. 2 If we break the law of chastity, As we keep ourselves sexually pure, righteousness. 9 we have committed a grievous sin. 3 The we will become more sensitive to the prophet Alma taught that sexual sins are Holy Ghost’s guidance and receive more serious than any other sins except strength, comfort, and protection. 8 murder or denying the Holy Ghost. 4 Satan makes a mockery of chastity obert Casey; Casey; obert R eishman; eishman; “ now ye not that your body is the L ana ana Ktemple of the Holy Ghost which is in L you, which ye have of God, and ye are ndersen; ndersen; not your own? A “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Photo illustrations by Welden C. C. Welden by illustrations Photo w R eier; and John L uke Jan Friis, © H enrik A ls; M atthe 14 Liahona 4. If you find yourself strug- gling with sexual tempta- tions, including feelings of 2. Through modesty in 3. Pornography is addictive same-gender attraction, you 5. If you have committed dress and appearance, you and destructive. It will rob can choose to resist those sexual transgressions, speak show God that you know you of your self-respect temptations. The Lord will with your bishop or branch your body is a sacred cre- and self-control and often “make a way to escape” president. He will help you ation from Him. Modesty leads to more serious sexual so that you will “be able to through the process of promotes chastity. 10 sins. 11 bear it.” 12 repentance. 13

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

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

July 2010 15 Gospel Classics

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

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

July 2010 17 Choose the

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

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

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

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

all the time.”

Sheela Prabhudas

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

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

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

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

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

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

help us,’ and He did.”

Venkat Dunna

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

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

guide our marriage.”

Barat Powell

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

22 Liahona 

should go,” Sathiadhas recalls. “We told them we would celebrate with them at the legal ceremony before they left, and we asked them to take lots of pictures after they were sealed. Then we would celebrate again when they returned. “We are teaching the younger gen- eration the importance of the temple,” Sathiadhas explains. “We encourage all people to go to the temple, and we wanted our children to go there too.” He says he is particularly pleased with the way Barat and Ishla respected their Three weeks later Ishla was Ishla had learned about temple parents, the customs of their people, praying and wondering what to marriage at institute and knew she and their own agency. do, and so was Barat. “The Lord wouldn’t settle for anything less. Barat “In India people refer to ‘arranged showed me through so many felt the same way. But they would have marriages’ and ‘love marriages,’” Barat ways that Barat was the right to save money to travel to the temple, says. “We feel we have both.” In fact, one,” Ishla says. “But I was very and it meant many friends and family Barat and Ishla prefer to call their mar- reserved. I prayed, ‘Lord, if this members, including Barat’s mother and riage a “guided marriage.” “We were is the way, then show me how I father, wouldn’t have enough money to brought together by our families and can speak to him.’” travel with them. friends but also by the Spirit,” he says. Barat says, “I had talked to “It’s a long way to go, and traveling is “We hope the Spirit will always guide several people about her, and very expensive, but we all agreed they our marriage.” ◼ they all had nothing but good to say. Suddenly I thought, ‘I need to talk to her right now,’ Local Culture and Gospel Culture but I didn’t know how. I called “The purpose of the gospel is to transform common creatures President Isaac’s sister and into celestial citizens, and that requires change. . . . asked if she thought it was all “The traditions or culture or way of life of a people inevitably right to call.” include some practices that must be changed by those who wish to qualify for God’s choicest blessings. . . . Ishla continues, “As I was “There is a unique gospel culture, a set of values and expectations and practices praying, the branch presi- common to all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This dent’s sister telephoned and gospel way of life comes from the plan of salvation, the commandments of God, said, ‘Barat wants to talk to and the teachings of the living prophets. It is given expression in the way we you. Can I give him your num- raise our families and live our individual lives.” ber?’” Half an hour later they Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Repentance and Change,” ­ Liahona and Ensign,­ Nov. 2003, 37, 39. were talking. Barat says, “It was as if we had known each other for years.” 

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

24 Liahona  “I would ask that your faith and prayers continue to be offered in

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

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

July 2010 25  Many “isles of the sea” were among places where the gospel began to take root in the 19th century. Far left: The site of this 1882 meetinghouse in Hawaii became the site of the Laie Hawaii Temple, which was finished in 1919 (left).Below left: After missionaries went to New Zealand in 1854, the gospel blossomed. Below: This replica of Stela 5—one of 80 to the gospel after the monuments in Izapa, Chiapas, Mexico—is known as the fall of the Berlin Wall in Tree-of-Life Stone. Some have 1989. 3 suggested that it might depict Lehi’s dream (see 1 Nephi 8). He and all latter-

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

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

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

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

July 2010 27 Left: The colors and textures of this City Guatemala Temple. Below: embroidery capture the energy of the Today more than 1,500 members tremendous growth of the Church in live in Poland, a country profoundly Mexico, Central America, and South affected by World War II. Their testi- America over the past 50 years. These monies are rooted in the same beliefs members love the Book of Mormon as are all Latter-day Saints’—such as and are drawn to the temple, the First Vision (depicted below by a represented here by the Guatemala Polish artist).

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

as we accept the chal- t lenge from President Monson. ◼

Notes 1. Spencer W. Kimball, etition, may not be co p ied; t C om p etition, may “When the World Will Be P h otog r a ph of esident T o p R I g h t: Converted,” Ensign­ , Oct.

1974, 3. useum; M y y

2. See “Status Report on r Missionary Work: A Histo l Ar t h I nte r nationa

Conversation with Elder h c Thomas S. Monson, r u dication of R u ss ia, by E min Z l fuga r ov De dication y museum; R ight:

Chairman of the Missionary Ch Committee of the Council of the Twelve,” Ensign,­ Oct. tesy of of tesy 1977, 8. r

3. See Garold and Norma cou , l Davis, “Behind the Wall: by J ue l ing Ch en, F ou r osty tesy of c h u r isto

The Church in Eastern M Germany,” Tambuli, Feb. 1992, 12; Ensign­ , Apr. 1991, anuza anuza an cou r 22. J 4. History of the Church,

4:540. r ies in J a p 5. “President Hinckley Visits Asian Saints, Dedicates Hong Kong Temple,”

Ensign, Aug. 1996, 74. M i ss ionari es , T o p cente r : U nfading ph of missiona vant; vant; A y y rr e t: P h otog r a a r Rig h t: Hinc kl ey by G T o p F l Ar , by M a r ia Gl adis B rr ientos de onte oso, Th i d I nte nationa T h e Lamanit es Bl o ss om Lik th R se in Dese rt T o p l eft: by by Jo se ph Smith’ s F ir t V i ion, C om p etition; Left:

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

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

July 2010 29  i ons by Gre gg T horkelson Illustrat 30 Liahona 

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

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

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

July 2010 31 

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

32 Liahona 

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

July 2010 33 

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

34 Liahona 

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

July 2010 35  Youth Save Kathy By Darwin Richardson n January 1976, I received a telephone call differences, I knew that she didn’t yet know Ifrom a friend who worked for social services. enough about the Church to defend it. I He asked if my wife and I would be willing to decided to bring another guest, Richard Jones, take in a foster child. At the time we had two who had just returned from his mission. young children of our own, but we agreed to The day of “Save Kathy” night was a day of open up our home to 17-year-old Kathy. fasting and prayer for all of us. I prayed that Soon after arriving in our home, Kathy the Spirit would be present at the meeting and asked if she could attend church with us. that there would be no contention. Of course we said yes, and soon Kathy was When we arrived at the church that evening, attending church regularly. Many of Kathy’s we sensed some animosity, but the youth friends from her former congregation noticed minister welcomed us warmly and invited us her absence, and they were unhappy to find to tell the group about the Church and our out that she was attending the LDS Church. beliefs. As Richard shared what was then One day after school, Kathy told us that her the first missionary discussion and taught former church was planning to stage a “Save about the Restoration, the 15 or so young Kathy” night for their youth ministry meeting. people in the room listened carefully. Even Kathy asked if I would accompany her to that the youth minister was captivated. meeting and help her defend the Church. I We then spent the rest of the evening reluctantly agreed because although I didn’t answering questions and having a wonderful want to argue with her friends about doctrinal discussion about the gospel. The animosity we

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

36 Liahona 

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

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

July 2010 37 Latter-day Saint Voices

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

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

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

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

July 2010 39 Latter-day Saint Voices

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

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

July 2010 41  Dear Young adults write letters of counsel to a young adult woman who is questioning whether to Frieda move in with her boyfriend.

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

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

42 Liahona Young Adults 

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

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

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

July 2010 43 

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

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

back on the Church and walk away. So I did. H allberg Photogra p h of S tockholm weden T em le © tefan

44 Liahona Young Adults 

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

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

July 2010 45 To t h e Point

Why does the Church put such an emphasis on service? Why can’t we just have fun? he gospel of Jesus Christ in callings and do other service, Service can be Whom do I talk to Tplaces great emphasis we not only strengthen others a lot of fun if about getting a on helping our fellowmen. It but also become better people. 1 you approach patriarchal blessing? is not enough to sympathize What’s more, service can be a it with the right resident James E. Faust with someone in need—it is lot of fun if you approach it with attitude. P(1920–2007), Second our responsibility to act. “Be ye the right attitude. Think of your Counselor in the First Presidency, doers of the word, and not hear- talents and skills and how you said: “A patriarchal blessing is ers only” ( James 1:22). can use them to help others. a very unique and remarkable privilege that can come to the faithful members of the Church having sufficient maturity to understand the nature and the importance of such blessings. . . . Like many blessings, they must be requested by the person or

by the family of the one desiring the blessing.” 1 If you feel spiritually ready to receive your patriarchal bless- ing, you should first make an appointment for an interview The Savior taught, “Inasmuch with your bishop or branch as ye have done it unto one president, who will determine of the least of these my breth- your readiness and worthiness. ren, ye have done it unto me” If he feels you are ready, you (Matthew 25:40), and King will receive a recommend. Benjamin taught that “when ye Individual service is rewarding, You may then contact your are in the service of your fellow and you can also enjoy serving stake patriarch to schedule beings ye are only in the service with friends! Gather a group of an appointment. of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). people together, and brainstorm Note 1. James E. Faust, “Your Patriarchal Serving others shows our ded- how you can serve in a new and Blessing,” Tambuli, June 1983, 30; ication to the Lord and to the creative way. You’ll be amazed New Era, Nov. 2005, 4. well-being of His children. at how fulfilling service can be.

Service doesn’t just help oth- note ers. It can also lead to our own 1. See Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Lift Where You Stand,” Liahona­ and Ensign,­ at F rederiksborg in H illerød, D en m ark H istori c Museu m at used by p er m ission of the N ational spiritual growth. When we serve Nov. 2008, 56. R eier, N oel Maglaque, and John L uke; Jesus Healing t h e Blind, by Carl H einri c B lo h, by Matthew Photo illustrations

46 Liahona Youth

◼ 1 . As the As . . Liahona, July 2008, 5. Ensign, July 2008, July 2008, 3; ­ 3; July 2008, Voice of the Prophets,” ­ of the Prophets,” Voice F. Uchtdorf, Uchtdorf, President Dieter F. 1. Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Heeding the Uchtdorf, Dieter F. 1. Note What pioneer storiesWhat inspire you? Let us know at [email protected]. Second Counselor in the FirstSecond Counselor “What a joy said: Presidency, be partand privilege it is to of Church and be this worldwide prophets, taught and uplifted by . and revelators! seers, message of the restored gospel beingof Jesus Christ is now embraced the world, around own our in pioneers all are we sphere and circumstance.” join in recognizing the pioneerjoin in recognizing Some com- all share. heritage we parades, munities hold pageants, and handcartconcerts, treks as part of the commemoration. the remembranceElsewhere, be as simple as a familymay outing or a personal moment No matter whereof reflection. no matter Church members live, if there is a formal celebration or it is anjust a minute of thought, appropriate time to remember Saints did what early Latter-day including local pioneers us all, for who strengthened the Church live. where you

No matter matter No you where 24 July live, is a good time remember to what early Latter-day Saints did for us all. ioneer Day commemo- ioneer Day rates the arrival of the first In addition, Latter-day Saints in Latter-day In addition, various locations worldwide may locations worldwide various group of Mormon pioneers to on July 24, Valley, the Salt Lake In Utah it is an official 1847. and the associated state holiday, including a parade, celebration, ’47. of to as Days is referred recognizing allIt is a time for contributed to people who have regardless or building the state, religion or background. What of is the significance Is it celebrated Pioneer Day? the Church? all over P 40 Years in the Making , courtesy of of courtesy , ll nge A sborn sborn O ruman ruman T ing by by ing w dra l ty; architectura ty; l cott We cott S The pioneers worked on

the Salt Lake Temple from 1853 to 1893. by ustration ll The best things are always worth finishing. istory Library of C hurch H istory courtesy photograph of construction w orkers by C har l es Wi ll iam arter, Library; C hurch H istory Left: composite photo i photo composite Left: 48 Liahona Youth Our Space

My How to Gain a Favorite Testimony Scripture testimony is a very important 2 Nephi 32:5 has A part in our lives as members been my favorite scrip- of the Church. To gain a testimony, ture since I was in Primary because do what Moroni invites us to do: it tells you what to do when you are ponder in your heart the message Celebrating the Pioneers given the gift of the Holy Ghost. You or the principle that you want to ach July many members of the Church must receive it and be worthy of it, know is true; then ask God in the Eworldwide pause to honor the pioneers who and then the Holy Ghost will guide name of Jesus Christ if it is true. entered the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. you on the right path. Those who pursue this course and Here is an experience that one young woman Peaches C., age 16, Trinidad, ask in faith will gain a testimony shared with us: West Indies of the truth by the power of the “Sometimes our ward has pioneer activities,” says Holy Ghost (see Moroni 10:3–5). I Analee B. of Burke, Virginia, USA. “People dress up can testify to you that if you pray in pioneer outfits, and we usually go on some type with all the faith of your heart, our of ‘trek’—it’s really a walk. We also talk about pio- Heavenly Father will answer your neers, and we do games that pioneers would play. prayer. In Virginia it is really hot and humid in the summer, When I was an investigator, I and we always have these celebrations outside, so decided to pray and ask Heavenly with the hot weather we really feel like pioneers. Father if everything I had learned “For me personally I am almost always read- was true. Never in my life will I find ing a book about Church history. Reading those words to describe the feeling I had, books makes me appreciate the pioneers even but I know that it was the answer more and helps me understand better what they of my Heavenly Father because I “All things which come of the went through.” have received a lot of blessings earth, in the season thereof, are How, in your area, do you celebrate the past from it. made for the benefit and the or present pioneers in the Church? Remember, use of man, both to please the Jordi R., age 20, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic pioneers can include anyone who prepared the eye and to gladden the heart”

Right: photog r aph of pionee eenactment by Welden C . A nde sen; Right: Kampen r e photog aphs by D eanna Van natu way for others to follow. (D&C 59:18).

July 2010 49 How I Know KnowingGrowing into By Sonia Padilla-Romero

hen I was 14, some Latter- day Saint missionaries Wcame to our home and taught my mother and me. They soon invited us to be baptized. My mother declined, but I said yes. Looking back, I don’t know that I was con- verted. I think that, like many teens, I was simply looking to do something different than the norm. As I learned the doctrines For the next year I went to church of the gospel, my difficult by myself. I didn’t really feel like I fit circumstances didn’t in, and I didn’t understand much of change, but I felt happier. what was taught. But I was active. The Of course, I didn’t tell my parents. next year I lived away from home and I had spent a lot of time convincing attended a Church-owned high school them to let me come to this school. in Mexico City. Although I had loved How could I admit that maybe this the high school during my initial visit wasn’t the place for me after all? and worked hard to be accepted to the Because of my pride, I just struggled school (and to convince my parents silently. to let me attend), I quickly found that My difficult situation became worse being on my own wasn’t easy. I still when I received news that my parents didn’t have a testimony. I didn’t really were divorcing. I felt as though my understand who Joseph Smith was whole world was being destroyed. or what the Book of Mormon taught. It was at that point that my bishop detail from The Second C oming, by G rant R omney lawson detail More than ever I felt like I didn’t fit in. took me aside and asked how I was R omero; of S onia Padilla- Photogra p h courtesy

50 Liahona Youth

As a new member, I learned that it doesn’t matter if you don’t understand everything in the gospel right away. What does matter is that you understand that the Savior atoned for your sins and that He understands you perfectly, even if no one else does.

became a positive period in my life. Attending the Church high school changed my vision of who I was and I knew that He knew me, and that what my life could be. When I gradu- changed everything. ated, I stayed in Mexico City. The first Perhaps it’s common for new thing I did once I found a place to doing. I told him about all of my frus- members of the Church to feel as live was find the local ward so I trations and my sorrows. “I feel like I I did about not fitting in. What I’ve could continue to have a place of really don’t know anything anymore,” learned is that it doesn’t matter if you refuge, a place where I could grow I said. don’t understand everything in the in the gospel. That good bishop started teach- gospel right away. What does matter A short time after that, I served ing me about the gospel. We started is that you understand your relation- a mission on Temple Square in Salt with how to truly communicate with ship to Heavenly Father and that Lake City. I found great joy in sharing Heavenly Father. Over time we talked He has a purpose and plan for your with others the truths that had given about the Atonement. He taught me life. It does matter that you under- me a solid foundation in an otherwise truths of the gospel, and for the first stand that the Savior atoned for your turbulent time of life. time, I felt I had a testimony. I was sins and that He understands you I am grateful to be a member of glad I had something to cling to in perfectly, even if no one else does. the Church. I know that Heavenly that shaky period. Even though I felt Once I knew these doctrines, other Father is aware of each of us and powerless to help my family, I was things fell into place. that He has a plan for our lives. It has able to feel a sense of happiness Thanks to the love and patient been a great blessing to watch Him in being close to Heavenly Father. teaching of my bishop, high school unfold His plan for me. ◼

July 2010 51  Things Will Work Out Have faith and trust in the Lord, 25 kilometers away from each other. We saw and He will provide. each other during priesthood meeting and Young Men activities. Even though we saw each other only once a week, being good was born in Germany to good, caring par- friends helped all three of us stay active in the ents who were members of the Church. Church. By Elder Erich W. IDuring World War II, when my father was 10 Later I noticed that many of the older youth Kopischke years old, he was introduced to the gospel by became less active in the Church, and I had Of the Seventy a friend in Stettin, which is now part of Poland. an absolute fear that one day I might lose my Because of the war, there were no missionaries­ testimony. There were so few youth in the in Stettin at that time. After he accepted the Church in Germany in those days that when gospel, my father taught his family, and they they became less active, their absence was were converted. He later met my mother, who noticeable. It was frightening for my parents. was also living in East Germany. There were They had given up everything to raise their no missionaries there either. My father taught children in religious freedom, and now they my mother the gospel, and she accepted it. were thinking, “What can we do so that we They were married and then moved to West will not lose Erich?” Germany shortly before I was born. One day when I was about 14 years old, In Germany at that time, there were not my family was driving home from church. many members of the Church. At school I was We had noticed, once again, that some of the the only member. At a young age I gained a youth had turned their backs on the Church. I strong testimony that God lives and that this is said to my parents, “I want you to drag me to His true Church. I never doubted the truthful- church until I am 21 years old, and then I will ness of the gospel. I held on to this testimony, take care of myself!” I really told them that, and it helped me stay active through my youth. and my mother often repeated it to me.

Fear of Falling Away An Education Decision I had two friends my age who were also This concern explains why, when I was active in the Church. They were brothers, and about 10 years old and attending primary we grew up together. However, I could see school, my parents made a decision. In them only on Sunday because we lived almost Germany you start a higher-education path

52 Liahona Youth 

at a young age. My parents decided found myself without a lot of career One challenge for me was that I not to allow me to go into higher options. I had finished my education. had always wanted to be a teacher, education because they had seen Two years after my mission, I married and you cannot be a teacher in many young people leave the Church my wife, Christiane, and there was Germany without a university edu- while attending these schools at that no chance for me to gain a univer- cation. However, I eventually did time. They said, “You can go any- sity education. There was a moment become a teacher—a religion teacher. where, but not to the Gymnasium when I felt sad about my parents’ I became a teacher for the Church [university-track school], because we decision because I felt so limited. Educational System. And in a manner don’t want to lose you to the world!” Then a thought came to me: of speaking, that is what I am now—a That decision meant that I received “Whatever my parents did, they did teacher. So I gained a testimony that it a basic education and later a voca- to protect me. They did it out of love, is worthwhile to listen to your par- tional education; for me, that meant and it will not be a disadvantage for ents, to follow their counsel, and to a degree in business. This limited me.” Even though at times it seemed to trust that they love you, pray for you, many of my professional possibilities. be a disadvantage in a worldly sense, and know what is best for you. The I completed my training when I was I could now understand that it would desire to stay active in the Church 18 years old and was called to serve never be a real disadvantage. I decided was so strong on my part and the as a missionary in Munich, Germany. to make a career in the insurance busi- desire to protect me was so strong on I loved being a missionary. ness, and I later became an executive my parents’ part that everything did When I finished my mission, I in the company where I worked. come together for my good.

Searching in the Light of Christ

hen you are young, you have ques- promise, as prophesied, would W tions, and your friends and others be fulfilled; and we would become question what you are doing. One of the better sons and daughters, better answers to those questions is in Moroni friends, better employees, better 7:19, where Mormon teaches us: “Search missionaries, better people. As Paul said, diligently in the light of Christ that ye may “Prove all things; hold fast that which is know good from evil; and if ye will lay good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). hold upon every good thing, and condemn I have seen so many people in the world it not, ye certainly will be a child of Christ.” around me say, “I will take this good thing, That is a wonderful scripture. The Light but I will not take that one.” They keep of Christ is our conscience; it is a gift to themselves from the truth. But the scrip- every child of our Heavenly Father. We tures invite us to hold on to everything that should think constantly about things that always thought that if everyone in the is good and to search our conscience in the are good, and we should cleave to those world would do that, whether he or she Light of Christ.

Photo illustration by Christina S mith Photo illustration things and condemn them not. I have is a member of the Church or not, this Elder Erich W. Kopischke of the Seventy.

July 2010 53 

In seminary and institute classes, often our teachers would say, “As you read this scripture, try inserting your own name.” I discovered I could read the scriptures as if I were Nephi or Helaman or Moroni.

My Higher Education they came every morning. Some of I discovered I could read the scrip- Something else that helped me them traveled quite a distance. Out tures as if I were Nephi or Helaman stay strong as a youth was the semi- of that group, the young men all or Moroni. That changed the whole nary program, which was introduced went on missions, and almost all of setting for me when I read the scrip- in Germany in 1972, when I was those young men and women have tures. It was like a dream; all of a 14 years old. It had a great impact stayed active in the Church. sudden I could see myself in the on my life. I can still remember my When I think about how I gained same situation as those I was reading seminary teacher, because she left my testimony and what had the about. a great impression on me and influ- greatest impression on me for good, The scriptures helped me under- enced me in such a positive way. I really can say that it was the semi- stand that faith is something real. It is Because of my seminary expe- nary and institute classes I attended. not just knowing about things in the rience and my individual study of It was the learning of gospel prin- scriptures in a theoretical way, but the scriptures as a youth, I learned ciples and doctrines from the scrip- faith connects us to the Lord’s reality to love the scriptures. My study tures, with a group of friends, from a for us. This is something I gained strengthened my testimony, and I teacher we admired. from my time in seminary as a youth. have never lost my love for seminary One of the best things to do when I have a sure faith that if the Lord and institute classes. I taught one studying the scriptures is to apply gives an assignment, we can “go and of the first early-morning seminary them to yourself. Often our teachers do” (1 Nephi 3:7), and He will pro- classes in Germany. It was a great would say, “As you read this scrip- vide what we need to accomplish

class. The young people loved it, and ture, try inserting your own name.” that assignment. M useum of Chur c h H istory R ane, c ourtesy by Walter Alm a 46:20: Come Forth,

54 Liahona Youth 

Strength from the Scriptures on time. This impressed my fellow A Mission Will Keep A scripture that really helped me trainees and opened the door for me Your Path Clear when I was young is Joshua 1:6–9. It to have some gospel conversations says, in part: “Be strong and of a good with them. ne of the most important things courage. . . . Observe to do according I have complete trust and faith that Oa young man can do is prepare to to all the law. . . . Turn not from it to when the Lord gives you an assign- serve a mission. It is important to prepare the right hand or to the left, that thou ment, it will work out somehow if spiritually, physically, and educationally. mayest prosper.” you “do not turn to the right or to Study the scriptures diligently. Study them As a young man, I thought, “Once I the left.” I did not know that the mail every day, with the help of seminary and receive an assignment from the Lord, duty we had would be finished early institute classes. Then go on a mission, and I will not turn to the right or to the that day. You won’t always know do and be the very best you can. left.” I had some good experiences as those kinds of things in advance. You You will come to know that your mission a result. For instance, one day while cannot tell the Lord how it should experiences are the best education for you. I was in business training, I had to happen, but with faith and trust in It is a wonderful way to practice all the go to a Church meeting, but I had a Him, it often will work out well. good things you have learned in your family, work responsibility related to the mail. My study of the scriptures and my in the Church, and in seminary and institute Normally this responsibility would take parents’ example gave me something classes. If you young men, and you young me and the other trainees as much as very important, even as a young man. women who so desire, will prepare for and an extra hour after our regular work Together, they helped me develop serve a mission, it will keep your life’s path hours. But I had to go to Hamburg on great faith that in my day-to-day living, clear for you. I would wish for my sons and the 5:30 p.m. train to get to my Church the Lord would help and bless me. ◼ daughters and for you, the youth of the meeting. I told the others of my Church, to be worthy to go on a mission dilemma, and they said to me, “Good when you reach the right age and to luck. It is not going to happen.” wholeheartedly seize and magnify I said, “Sure it will, because this that opportunity. is an important meeting.” They I would wish for you all, includ- shrugged their shoulders and said sar- ing my own children, great faith castically, “Yeah sure—you and your and trust in the Lord, that you might faith. You think just because you are enjoy His marvelous promises. I religious that everything is going to know that the Lord will provide the work out. That means that we would experiences, challenges, and bless- have to finish the mail by 10 minutes ings He knows will be for your good. to 5:00. It has never happened.” I said, I have a sure testimony that when “Well, whatever happens will happen. we have great faith and trust in the But I need to be in Hamburg on time Lord, He will provide. tonight.” Elder Erich W. Kopischke of the Seventy. Now, believe it or not, for the first and only time in three years, every- thing was finished that day at 10 min- utes to 5:00, and I made it to the train

July 2010 55 By Joshua J. Perkey Church Magazines

A Forever F a m i ly

hen I first met Uanci Kivalu, she What at Uanci’s voice began to quaver. I glanced was smiling broadly. But as she first seemed up from my notepad and saw tears in her Wsat down and her tone turned a tragedy eyes. serious, I wondered what this friendly “One day my little brother ’Alekisio had eventually 16-year-old would share. “My story is about an injury in his hips that got infected,” she the temple,” she said. led Uanci’s continued. “He got better for a while. And my Uanci is from Tonga, an island nation filled family to the dad came back to church. But then my dad with towering coconut trees, majestic banana temple. fell away again.” trees, and broad taro plants. Most of the youth The tears were now streaming down I had seen on the island seemed content with Uanci’s face, and the tissue I handed her was life, with smiles as broad as Uanci’s had been immediately soaked, as were her sleeves, as only moments before. Tongan youth her age she tried unsuccessfully to dry the tears. like to dance, sing, play netball, and spend “My little brother got worse, and then he time with their families. They are generally died. He was only 12 years old.” a happy bunch. But Uanci’s seriousness was Uanci paused for a moment, overcome by mixed with a deeper emotion I could not iden- her feelings, and I began to understand why tify, and it surprised me. she had been so serious. This young woman

“I want to talk about the temple,” she had already felt great tragedy in her life. But repeated. there was also a glimmer of hope shining “When I was growing up,” Uanci began, through her eyes. “my brothers and sister and I were members “Then,” she began again, “my dad finally of the Church. We would attend church every decided to come back to church. At first, Sunday with my mom. I loved the temple, it was hard for him. Our bishop, leaders, and I loved going with the youth to do bap- relatives, and family encouraged him that tisms for the dead. I would feel the Spirit the only way our family would be together a T o n ga emple by Welde C. An derse when we went there. But my dad wouldn’t again—to see my brother again—would be f photograph o photographs by Joshua J. P erkey; Family come to church.” to be sealed in the temple. f Nuku‘alo

56 Liahona Youth  Peace in the Temple “To you who are worthy and able to attend the temple, I would admonish you to go often. The temple is a place where we can find peace. There we receive a renewed dedication to the gospel and a strengthened resolve to keep the commandments.” President Thomas S. Monson, “Until We Meet Again,” Liahona­ and Ensign,­ May 2009, 113.

“We struggled after my brother died,” Uanci continued. “But my parents worked hard and received their ordinances. Finally, we were sealed in the temple as a family on October 10, 2008, exactly one year after ’Alekisio died. My bishop stood in place of my little brother. It was the most indescribable feeling I ever felt.” Uanci’s tears were not tears of sorrow but of joy. She and her family had been to the house of the Lord and sealed in the temple, and she knew what that meant. If her family lives worthy of their covenants, they will be together forever. As I think about Uanci, I imagine her walking across the Liahona cam- pus, the Church-owned high school in Tonga that sits adjacent to the temple. As she walks, Uanci gazes over at the spire of the angel Moroni, its golden form glistening in the sun. There are tears in her eyes again, but she is also smiling, for she knows she will see ’Alekisio again. ◼

July 2010 57 He Told Me,

“ N“Inasmuch as any o man drinketh wine Wayor strong ” drink among you, behold it is not good, neither meet in the sight of your Father” (D&C 89:5).

By Truman E. Benson Based on a true story used to think my best friend, Chase usually comes to my Chase, would do anything. When I house to play after school. It’s nice I dared him to jump off the top step to have him around because my of my porch, not only did he do it, mom and dad are still at work. but he even took a running start! Playing with Chase is fun. We love When I dared him to ride the to make up jokes. Chase is friends upside-down roller coaster, he with everybody. I never hear him didn’t just ride it, but he actually sat talk bad about other people—even in the front seat! if everybody else does. And when I told him there was Today Chase and I played bas- no way he would say hi to Julia—the ketball. It was pretty hot, so I asked prettiest girl in the whole school— Chase if he wanted a drink. not only did he say hi, but he sat and “Sure,” Chase said, as he rolled talked to her for five minutes! the ball into the grass and ran to my I thought Chase would do any- front porch. thing. Until today, that is. We walked inside and went to Chase comes over to my house the kitchen. As I opened the fridge, almost every day. We live super the rush of the cool air made the close to each other. There is only hairs on our arms stand one house in between ours. But on end. When I first Chase doesn’t come over on Sunday peeked into the or Monday. On Sundays he goes fridge, I just saw to church. On Mondays he has juice and milk. some kind of a family night. He Then, an open invited me a couple of times. We ate can in the brownies and played games. It was corner caught pretty fun. my eye.

58 Liahona Children 

My dad had left a can of beer “What is it?” Chase asked. “The Lord has com- open. He would never know if “It’s beer,” I said. “My dad drinks manded you to take we took a couple of sips. I pulled it all the time. He won’t know if we good care of your body. the can out. just take a sip.” To do this, observe the “Want to try?” I asked. Chase looked at me. He raised Word of Wisdom.” his eyebrow and put his hands on For the Strength of Youth (pamphlet, 2001), 36. his hips. Then he said something I never thought I’d hear him say. “No way!” Chase said. “Did you just say no?” I asked. “Beer’s not good for you,” he said. “We shouldn’t drink it. It makes you do dumb things.” “Not if you just take one little sip,” I said. “Watch, I’ll show you.” I raised the can to my mouth, took a small sip, and smiled. It tasted gross, but I didn’t want to look uncool. “See? Do I look any dumber to you?” I asked. “I think I’m going to go home,” Chase said. “Don’t drink any more of that stuff. It’s not a good idea.” As I watched Chase walk out the door and run down the sidewalk back to his house, I couldn’t help nderson, nderson,

but wonder why he would do A arry arry

almost anything but not take even H a small sip of beer. I took another small sip after useum useum

Chase left. “Blech! This stuff M

really is gross,” I thought as I put story Hi the can back in the corner of the hurch hurch fridge. C Maybe Chase was on to some- by by i on by John Zamud o; Jesus Christ, Illustrat thing after all. ◼ of courtesy

July 2010 59 “They may forget, yet will I not forget thee” (1 Nephi 21:15).

Lead Me, Guide Me By Anne-Mette Howland Based on a true story hen I was 10 years old, come back. But after a while we After the prayer Poul pointed my family moved from knew we were lost and on our own. down a street. “I feel we need WDenmark to Canada. We “Should we ask someone for to go this way,” he said. had lived there only a little while directions?” I asked Poul. I started to cry again. when two sisters who lived across How could he know the street from our new home “Believe in your- which way to go? invited me and my 12-year-old selves. Believe that Poul comforted me again. you are never alone. brother, Poul, to take a bus ride “You need to have faith that we will Believe that you will with them to see the city. always be guided.” be guided,” he said. Poul and I were excited to go. My Elaine S. Dalton, When he said that, a feeling of mother wasn’t sure about the idea, Young Women peace came over me. I had the general president, “Believe!” Liahona­ and but she finally gave in. Mother gave ­Ensign, May 2004, 110. thought that I needed to have faith the two girls the money for our bus and let my brother guide me. ride. She asked them to look after After walking a long time, we us because my brother and I didn’t “We can’t speak English, and came to a pond. “Do you remember speak English yet. The girls promised we don’t know our address,” he this pond?” Poul asked. “We drove they would take good care of us. answered. past it on our way from the airport We all got on the bus and started “Let’s call Mother,” I suggested, to our new home!” the ride. After a while the bus pointing to a nearby phone booth. I felt better hearing the excitement stopped, and the girls motioned for “We have no money, and we in his voice. We sat down by the us to get off. We followed them as we don’t know our phone number,” pond and said another prayer. all started walking around the city. Poul said. Suddenly Poul looked into Then suddenly the two girls I started to cry. Poul put his arm the distance. “Do you see that?” he started running in different directions! around me. “Stay calm, Anne-Mette. shouted. He got up and started run- We tried to follow them, but they dis- Let’s say a prayer.” ning, and I jumped up to follow him. appeared around unfamiliar corners. We huddled together and asked “What do you see?” I called. At first we thought they were just Heavenly Father to help us find our “It’s the Laundromat sign near

playing a trick on us and would soon way back home. our house!” P hotography photograph © B usath i on by S am L awlor; Illustrat

60 Liahona Children 

We followed the sign to our street, and soon we could see our mother standing outside the house. We ran to her and hugged her. When we went inside, Mother said, “When I saw the two girls come home, I went over to ask where you were. Their mother was not very nice. She said we are foreigners and we should go back where we came from.” Mother put her arms around us both. “I want you to know that not everyone here feels that way. We will meet many people who will welcome us and be our friends. Those girls left you alone today, but I’m glad you remembered that Heavenly Father will never leave you alone.” Then we knelt down and thanked Heavenly Father for guiding us safely home. ◼

July 2010 61  A Prophet’s Pledge By President Thomas S. Monson

n the spring of 1848, my great- arriving finally in the Salt Lake A Legacy of Faith great-grandparents, Charles Valley that same year. legacy is a valuable gift that we I Stewart Miller and Mary Others of my ancestors faced A inherit from our ancestors. President McGowan Miller, left their home similar hardships. Through it all, Monson’s great-great-grandparents, Charles in Scotland and journeyed to however, their testimonies and Mary Miller, gave him a legacy of faith St. Louis, Missouri, with a remained steadfast and in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Fill in the blanks group of Saints, arriving firm. From all of them with words from their story. there in 1849. I received a legacy of While the family total dedication to the The Miller family started their long trek in was in St. Louis work- gospel of Jesus Christ. ______. ing to earn enough With all my heart They worked in St. ______to money to complete and the fervency of earn money to finish their journey. their journey to the my soul, I declare A ______of ______Salt Lake Valley, a that God does live. killed many people. plague of cholera Jesus is His Son, the After their parents and two brothers died, swept through the Only Begotten of the the ______Miller children traveled on. area. In the space of Father in the flesh. He They had ______oxen and two weeks, four of is our Redeemer; He is ______covered wagon. the family members our Mediator with the President Monson’s great-grandmother succumbed. The children Father. He loves us with a Margaret was ______years old. who survived were left love we cannot fully com- They went from St. Louis, ______, orphans, including my great- prehend, and because He loves to the Salt Lake ______. grandmother Margaret, who was us, He gave His life for us. My grati- President Monson said, “I pledge my 13 years old at the time. tude to Him is beyond expression. ______, my strength in serving The nine remaining Miller chil- I pledge my life, my strength [Jesus Christ].” dren continued to work and save in serving Him and in directing for that journey their parents and the affairs of His Church in accor- brothers would never make. They dance with His will and by His left St. Louis in the spring of 1850 inspiration. ◼ with four oxen and one wagon, From an April 2008 general conference address. ons by Maryn R oos i ons by Maryn Illustrat 62 Liahona Children 

A Pioneer Today pioneer is someone who goes somewhere or does something first and shows others A the way to follow. Draw a picture of someone you know about or someone in your family who is a pioneer today.

You don’t have to push a Leave your fam’ly dear, Or walk a thousand miles handcart, or more To be a pioneer!

You do need to have great courage,

Faith to conquer fear, And work with might for a cause that’s right To be a pioneer! (“To Be a Pioneer,” Children’s Songbook, 218–19)

July 2010 63 Sharing Time

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I follow Jesus Christ’s example when I pray to thank Heavenly Father for ______.

I follow Jesus Christ’s example by ______.

64 Liahona Children

I Can Follow Jesus Christ’s Example

By Sandra Tanner and Cristina Franco July 2010 Scripture Journal esus Christ said, “Come, follow me.” Read Luke 18:22. We can follow Jesus by doing the Pray to Heavenly Father to know eper Who Who eper L things He did. The pictures on the how you can follow Jesus. he he J opposite page show how Jesus encouraged Memorize Luke 18:22. people to have faith in Him. He taught Choose one of these activities, or that it is important to give thanks for bless- create your own: ings we receive. He gathered the children • Help someone else memorize Luke around Him so He could be with them and 18:22. teach them. Jesus loved the people He was • Do the activity on page 64. Cut out with and told us to love our neighbors. With the footprints. When you do some- the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus thing to follow Jesus Christ’s exam- taught about loving others. ple, write it on the blank line, and A traveler was attacked by thieves and attach a footprint to the path.

© Gary L. Kapp, L. Kapp, M e, © Gary M useum; L ord, S ave of Ch urc h History ter R ane, courtesy left to die. A priest and then a Levite saw the • Become a friend to someone who hurt man, but each of them passed by with- has a disability or is lonely. Think out helping. Finally, a Samaritan came by of the example of Jesus to help you and stopped to help the man. He bandaged know what to do. You can visit and the man’s wounds and took him to an inn. spend time with the person and The Samaritan left money with the encourage and help him or her. innkeeper to help care for the man. (See Luke 10:30–37.) This story How does what you have done help shows us what it means to follow you understand this scripture? the commandment to love our Write in your journal or draw a picture neighbors. about what you have done. ◼ by Harry A nderson, © IRI ; T of C . Harrison onroy o.; Christ and the Children, by Harry from top: Christ’s I mage, by Heinric h Hofmann, courtesy Left, l by Wa not be copied; T he G ood S amaritan, by Jo h n S tee lE , may S aid “ T hank You,” h nson by James Jo i ll ustration ri gh t: w ith G od, © S imon D e ey; not be copied; I n Favor may

July 2010 65 Pioneer“Charity is the pure Parasols love of Christ, and it endureth forever” (Moroni 7:47).

By Marli Walker Based on a true story

arah! Sarah, wake up!” five- But Christiana and Sarah had died during their journey and was year-old Christiana Larsen said begged to take just one favorite buried on the plains. Sto her little sister. “It’s time to thing to their new home. After all, After the Larsen family reached leave.” they were leaving behind their dolls, the Salt Lake Valley in 1857, Three-year-old Sarah struggled to books, and toys. Each girl chose her Christiana loved to go to church open her eyes. pretty parasol. with other children her age. “But it’s still dark outside,” she As the sun rose, Christiana and Christiana and Sarah happily car- complained sleepily. her family boarded the ship that ried their parasols to church every “I know, but Mama says we have would sail to America. They were Sunday to keep the hot desert sun to get an early start. The ship to excited to go to Zion, even though off their faces. America leaves soon.” they had to leave friends, family, As the days and weeks went by, The Larsen family had joined the and their home. the family’s money and food began Church in Denmark. Now they would The ocean voyage was long and to run out. One night Christiana be making the long journey to join tiresome. During the hot afternoons heard her parents discussing the the Saints in the Salt Lake Valley. on the ship, the two girls used their problem. Her father said he Christiana helped Sarah get pretty parasols to keep the sun off knew of a family who had dressed. Then the little girls tear- their heads. If the wind blew in the been blessed with a good fully took one last look around their right direction, the ship sailed stead- harvest of grain. The comfortable bedroom. They knew ily on. But if it changed course, the Larsens could trade it would be a long time before they ship was forced back, often as far as something they had would sleep in a real bed again. it had already come. for some flour. But “Don’t forget your parasol, When the Larsens landed in what did they Sarah,” Christiana said as she America, they bought a wagon and have to trade? picked up her own lacy silk para- oxen and began the long journey Christiana sol. “Mama said she would pack to the Salt Lake Valley. The ride in spoke up. “You them with the bedding.” the wagon was bumpy and hot, so can trade Sarah’s Mama and Papa had said they Christiana and Sarah often walked and my parasols, Papa.” couldn’t take anything besides instead. “But you love your parasols, necessities on the trip to America. Like many other pioneer fami- Christiana. I couldn’t do that!” After the bedding, clothing, and lies, Christiana’s family experienced “It’s all right, Papa,” Christiana tools were packed, there wouldn’t hardships and tragedy along the said. “We need the food more than

be much room for anything else. way. Christiana’s newborn brother we need the parasols.” i on by B r an Call Illustrat

66 Liahona Children

The next day Christiana’s father ready for bed, she looked sadly at to gratitude. As she said her traded the beautiful lacy parasols the corner where her lovely parasol prayers that night, she thanked for some flour. The flour provided had stood. But as she remembered Heavenly Father for her lovely food for the whole family. the wonderful bread she had eaten parasol, which helped to feed That night, as Christiana got for supper, her sadness turned her family. ◼

acrifice is the crowning Stest of the gospel. It means consecrating time, talents, energy, and earthly possessions to further the work of God.” Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Are You a Saint?” Liahona­ and ­Ensign, Nov. 2003, 96.

July 2010 67 Our Page

When I was little, my mother took me to attend many bap- tisms. But last year, when I was old enough to be baptized, I was very nervous. I was afraid that I couldn’t participate in the ordinance correctly, like those I had watched. Above all, I was afraid to go into the water. But the Holy Ghost helped me. I seemed to keep hearing the words, “Don’t be afraid! Don’t be afraid!” The Holy Ghost helped me overcome these problems so I could be baptized, which was very important to me. I was very blessed. When I came out of the water, I was not afraid of the water any longer, and I felt good inside. Bryan K., age 9, Taiwan

Beatriz da S., age 10, Brazil

Work Hard and Be Prepared

did not do well on my Malay language surprised when I saw that the topic the I gained a testimony regarding work. I I paper during the first semester exam- teacher had chosen was the very one I had know that when we pray and work hard, ination, and my rank in class dropped prepared for! Because I had worked hard we will receive inspiration to help us badly. I was very upset, but I knew only I and prepared, even though I did not know succeed at our work. was to blame, because I had spent many this would be the topic, I wrote very well and Ethan D., age 11, Malaysia hours after school playing with my friends got an A+! My teacher was surprised that I instead of doing my homework and had improved so much. studying. My mother and I made a plan to help me improve. I would finish my homework without a fuss as she asked each day, and both of us would pray for me to do well on the second semester exam. I worked hard the whole semester. A week before the exam, my mother was prompted to have me prepare a particular topic for the composition portion of the exam. The teacher decides what the topic will be, and we are graded on how well we write about that topic. On the day of the exam, I was

68 Liahona Children

Melanie A., age 3, from Mexico, Gino A., age 6, Philippines likes to help her mom by picking up her toys after playing. Now that she is three, she helps at church by sliding the chairs to others so they can stack them up after Sunday meetings. Melanie Edwin M., age 9, from Costa loves President Monson and Rica, is a good singer and likes to loves to see him on television sing “A Child’s Prayer.” He enjoys at conference time. swimming. At school he often explains the gospel to his friends and reminds them not to say bad words.

f you would like to submit a drawing, Iphoto, experience, testimony, or letter for Our Page, e-mail it to [email protected], Sometimes when I am lying in bed, I imagine with “Our Page” in the subject line. what could happen if the house was on fire, Each submission must include the and I get very afraid. When that happens, I child’s full name and age plus the parent’s pray to Heavenly Father. Then I get a restful feeling, and I can fall asleep easily. I am name, ward or branch, stake or district, and grateful that I can pray to Heavenly Father the parent’s written permission (e-mail is whenever I am afraid or sad. He helps me acceptable) to use the child’s photo and to overcome everything. submission. Submissions may be edited for Lea M., age 9, Germany clarity or length. Bottom left: illustration © Getty I ma g es illustration Bottom left:

July 2010 69 For Young Children

“Jesus is our loving friend. He is always near” (Children’s Songbook, 58). Who Is Jesus? By Eliana Osborn

Based on a true story 1. “Watch out! The allosaurus is going to get you!” roared Teddy as he chased Cole’s dinosaur around the couch with his allosaurus. “No one can stop me. I’m a tyran- nosaurus rex,” Cole said, bouncing his dinosaur along the walls.

3. “Who’s that on your wall?” Teddy asked, eating his string cheese. “Jesus, of course,” Cole said. “Who is Jesus?” Teddy asked. Cole didn’t know what to say. He thought everyone knew about Jesus. “He lives in heaven. And He loves all the people,” was all he could think to answer. “OK,” Teddy said. “Do you want to go outside?”

4. Cole was kneeling by his bed that night getting ready to say his prayers when Dad came in. “Did you have a good time with 2. The boys stomped Teddy today?” Dad asked. through the house like “Yes. We played in the sandbox loud, hungry dinosaurs and with dinosaurs. Dad, Teddy until Mom brought out asked me who Jesus was, and I a snack. didn’t know what to tell him.”

70 Liahona Children

5. Dad pointed to a picture on the wall above 7. “It sounds like you could tell Teddy both of those Cole’s bed. It was of Jesus surrounded by children. things,” Dad said. “What do you think about when you look at this “Maybe Teddy would like to come to church with me painting?” Dad asked. sometime,” Cole said. “Then he could learn lots of things about Jesus. And it is fun too.”

6. “I think about how I want to live with Jesus and Heavenly Father someday. And how Jesus treated people nicely when He was on the earth,” Cole said.

8. Dad kissed Cole on the top of his head. “You’re a good boy, Cole. Heavenly Father and Jesus are both proud of you. And Teddy is lucky to have you for a friend.” ◼

i ons by Jenn fer T olman Illustrat July 2010 71 Coloring Page David and Goliath

“Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel” (1 Samuel 17:45). i on by B eth M. Wh ttaker Illustrat 72 Liahona Children For Young Children

hese pioneers are Ttrying to get home. Pioneer Trek Can you help them find By Arie Van De Graaff the right path? e Van De Graaff i on by A r e Van Illustrat July 2010 73 News of the Church

Sunday School Presidencies Learning Important Role By Lauren Allen Church Magazines ach Sunday in the Highland Utah 30th Ward, As ward Sunday School president, Brother Richard Christiansen and his counselors in Christiansen has the responsibility to serve as a Ethe Sunday School presidency go through a resource for parents, leaders, and teachers to help routine familiar in almost every unit of the Church. improve the instruction that occurs in the home They make sure that each class has a teacher and in the Church. and help students get from the hallways to the “Teaching is what it’s all about, and being effec- classrooms. tive as a teacher helps others be excited to learn,” However, Brother Christiansen has caught the Brother Christiansen said. vision that his responsibilities are not limited to One of the tools at Sunday School presidencies’ herding students and ringing bells. disposal is the teacher improvement course that One of the primary roles of each quorum and may be offered during Sunday School. The course auxiliary organization is to teach members gospel consists of 12 lessons found in the Teaching, principles essential to their salvation. The role No Greater Call manual and may be taught by a of a Sunday School presidency, such as Brother member of the Sunday School presidency under Christiansen and his counselors, is to assist aux- the direction of the bishop. iliary and priesthood leaders in this charge by “This is a course that can be helpful to any acting as teacher training specialists within Church member who is interested in improving his the ward. or her teaching skills,” Brother Osguthorpe said, “Teaching is the primary means whether in the home or the classroom. “The the Church has to strengthen mem- lessons help participants learn how to teach bers, help them deepen their wit- by the Spirit, how to invite active, diligent ness of the Restoration, and gain learning, and how to teach so that members salvation and exaltation,” said will be eager to apply the principles of the Russell T. Osguthorpe, Sunday gospel in their own lives.” School general president. According to Brother Osguthorpe, Sunday School presidents attend ward council regularly, as outlined in Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 2, so that they can understand the bishop’s goals for the members of the ward and can counsel together on how to help improve teaching so those goals can be reached.

74 Liahona During a ward or branch council the Sunday Resources to Improve Teaching School president could be invited by the bishop or branch president to provide instruction on prin- ciples relating to gospel teaching and learning. hrough use of the scriptures, Brother Osguthorpe suggests that he could also Tthe Teaching, No Greater report on attendance in youth and adult Sunday Call (item no. 36123) manual, School classes and invite the help of other ward and the “Gospel Teaching leaders to assist those who may be struggling. and Leadership” section of “The most effective teaching in the Church the Church Handbook of occurs in homes where faithful parents live gos- Instructions, Book 2, members pel principles and teach those principles to their may improve their teaching children. The auxiliaries exist to support the home and fulfill the call of President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) in these most sacred duties. The Sunday School to teach the gospel of Jesus The purpose of the Teaching presidency is a resource in the ward to help both Christ “better than we have ever the Gospel course found in parents and teachers fulfill their responsibilities,” done before” (“We Have a Work Teaching, No Greater Call is to said Brother Osguthorpe. to Do,” Ensign,­ May 1995, 88). help Church members develop Successful gospel teaching on the part of parents “We must strengthen our- their teaching abilities and realize and Church leaders can strengthen members’ testi- selves and our people to get our the importance of improving gos- monies and help them come unto Christ, he said. teachers to speak out of their pel teaching. The course covers “The only reasonable way to measure the hearts rather than out of their topics such as teaching by the effectiveness of gospel teaching [in a ward] is to books, to communicate their love Spirit, inviting diligent learning, for the Lord and their precious and using effective teaching observe the faithfulness of the members. If more work, and somehow it will catch methods. young men are serving missions, if more youth fire in the hearts of those they The Teaching, No Greater Call are [growing up and] marrying in the temple, if teach,” said President Hinckley manual is available in more than more parents are reading the scriptures, holding (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley 30 languages. Contact local distri- family home evening, and worshipping in the [1977], 619–20). bution centers for availability. ◼ temple regularly, teaching is improving.” ◼

Changes to Teacher Improvement Explained

n a letter dated November 17, 2006, the First Presidency identifies what the policy discontinued and what it Iannounced changes to how teacher improvement should did not. be handled. Some confusion persists. The following

Discontinued: Continued: The positions of stake teacher improvement coordinator and The responsibilities of the teacher improvement coordinator ward teacher improvement coordinator were discontinued. now belong to the ward or branch Sunday School president. Quarterly teacher improvement meetings were discontinued. The teacher improvement course in Teaching, No Greater Call may still be taught as needed. ◼

July 2010 75 New Mission Presidents Begin Service

he majority of the more than Ecuador Guayaquil Javier Montalti Nigeria Enugu John K. Buah 100 new mission presidents and South Oklahoma Nolan S. Taylor their wives began their three- England Leeds Jerel D. Lindley Oklahoma City T Florida Jacksonville James W. Barry Panamá Panamá City Craig L. Ward year service this month in missions Florida Orlando Garth V. Hall Paraguay Asunción Horacio D. Madariaga around the world. Florida Tallahassee Dale Jensen North Florida Tampa Bruce P. Summerhays Pennsylvania William A. Schaefermeyer Mission New President Guatemala Retalhuleu José E. Maravilla Philadelphia Hawaii Honolulu John C. Dalton IV Peru Arequipa Arturo Fernández Alabama Birmingham Richard N. Holzapfel Honduras San Ronald L. Veirs Peru Cusco Wilson B. Calderon Argentina Buenos Richard M. Gulbrandsen Pedro Sula Peru Lima North Lawrence P. Blunck Aires North Idaho Boise Kent H. Cannon Peru Lima West J. Scott Dorius Argentina Buenos Michael J. Stapley India Bangalore Randy D. Funk Peru Trujillo Terry D. Turk Aires South Indiana Indianapolis Kent H. Collins Philippines Butuan Mernard P. Donato Argentina Córdoba Alfredo L. Salas Indonesia Jakarta George H. Groberg Philippines William A. Hernaez Arizona Mesa R. Spence Ellsworth Iowa Des Moines Dirk O. Jergensen Cagayan de Oro Arizona Tempe To be announced Italy Milan David R. Wolfgramm Philippines Cauayan Rodolfo A. Carlos Armenia Yerevan Reese A. Carter Italy Rome Thomas Kelly Philippines Iloilo Ryan V. Pagaduan Australia Brisbane Fritjof F. Langeland Japan Nagoya Scott O. Baird Philippines Naga Ronald D. Bliesner Australia Melbourne Dennis R. Lifferth Kenya Nairobi Steven H. Broadbent Philippines David W. DeLaMare Australia Perth Paul L. Cahoon Korea Daejeon Mark C. Furniss Quezon City Brazil Campinas R. Marshall Tanner Mexico Chihuahua Gerardo Angulo Poland Warsaw Stanford W. Nielson Brazil Curitiba Derek L. Cordon Mexico Culiacán Rolando Cantu Puerto Rico San Juan Jorge M. Alvarado Brazil Goiânia Ramon C. Prieto Mexico León Karim Del Valle Russia Moscow Stephen J. Sorenson Brazil João Pessoa Gordon J. Hall Mexico Mérida Netzahualcoyotl Salinas Russia Samara Ralph J. Sartori Brazil Londrina Eduardo L. M. Tavares Mexico Mexico Robert H. Hicken Sierra Leone Richard Roggia Brazil Ribeirão Preto Gilson R. Prieto City East Freetown Brazil Santa Maria Isaias D. Ribeiro Mexico Mexico Tom R. Tervort South Africa Durban James C. Von Stetten Bolivia La Paz Hector K. Quintanilla City Northwest Spain Málaga Richard R. Clegg Bolivia Santa Cruz Fernando E. Calderon Mexico Mexico Carlos Villarreal Taiwan Taichung Clark T. Bishop California Carlsbad Bruce M. Cook City West Texas Fort Worth Joseph M. Sagers California Long Beach Ted F. Bubert II Mexico Monterrey Alan R. Walker Texas McAllen Stephen J. Trayner California Los Angeles Stephen R. Baker East Texas San Antonio Stephen E. Jones California San William E. Jardine Mexico Villahermosa Nicolas Castañeda Tonga Nuku‘alofa ‘Aisake K. Tukuafu Bernardino Michigan Detroit Douglas D. Holmes Uganda Kampala Eric C. Jackson Canada Edmonton Chris W. Campbell Missouri St. Louis Stephen D. Clark Uruguay Montevideo Ronald W. Heaton Canada Montréal Nelson C. Cannon Mongolia Kris J. Mecham West Canada Toronto West Bradford J. Brower Ulaanbaatar Utah Salt Lake City Bruce R. Winn Chile Antofagasta Leland E. Bruce Nevada Las Jerry B. Black Utah Salt Lake Bruce E. Miller Chile Concepción Neall W. Humphrey Vegas West City South Chile Rancagua Richard W. King New Hampshire David L. Wilkey Utah St. George Keith G. Leonard Chile Santiago West James D. MacArthur Manchester Venezuela Valencia Jorge G. Montoya Colorado Denver Alan R. Maynes New Mexico Wayne K. Miller Virginia Richmond James C. Perry South Albuquerque Washington DC North James R. Matsumori Colombia Barranquilla Carlos A. Gaviria New Mexico Spencer V. Jones Washington Everett D. Keith Wilson Czech Prague David R. Irwin Farmington Washington Leonard D. Greer Democratic Gary L. Packer New York Rochester Jack R. Christianson Kennewick Republic of Congo Nicaragua Carlos F. Arredondo Washington Seattle Todd S. Larkin Lubumbashi Managua North Wisconsin Milwaukee Timothy M. Jones ◼ Denmark Copenhagen Jens H. Andersen Nicaragua Javier F. Monestel Managua South

76 Liahona In the News

Church Makes Mission Changes Elder Oaks Addresses Harvard Law Students

o better align resources to Switzerland Zürich, and portions of lder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum changing needs, the Church has the Germany Frankfurt Missions will Eof the Twelve Apostles recently Tcreated 10 new missions and become the Alpine German-Speaking addressed students at Harvard Law consolidated others with neighboring Mission. School during their fifth annual missions. The resulting number of The Illinois Chicago North and Mormonism 101 Series. missions will be 340. South Missions will become the Each year a member of the Church The Church has created the follow- Illinois Chicago Mission. is invited by the Harvard Law School ing missions: The Illinois Peoria Mission will be Latter-day Saint Students Organization Democratic Republic of Congo consolidated into a realignment of the to speak about the basic beliefs of Lubumbashi, Guatemala Retalhuleu, Iowa Des Moines, Missouri St. Louis, Mormonism and to answer questions Mexico Mexico City Northwest, and Nebraska Omaha Missions. students may have. Mexico Villahermosa, New Mexico The Ireland Dublin and Scotland Elder Oaks explained the LDS Farmington, Nicaragua Managua Edinburgh Missions will become the belief in Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, North (the Nicaragua Managua Scotland/Ireland Mission. and the Holy Ghost as three individual Mission will be called the Nicaragua The Italy Catania Mission will be beings, separate in identity and unified Managua South Mission), Peru Cusco, consolidated into a realignment of the in purpose. He also explained the Peru Lima West, Philippines Iloilo, Italy Rome and Italy Milan missions. purpose of life through a brief account and Utah St. George. The Japan Hiroshima Mission will of the plan of salvation. The Church has combined the be consolidated into a realignment of He offered his testimony of following missions: the Japan Fukuoka and Japan Kobe Jesus Christ and the power of the The Australia Melbourne East Missions. Atonement, saying, “To me, the mir- and West Missions will become the The Korea Seoul West Mission acle of the Atonement of Jesus Christ Australia Melbourne Mission. will become part of the Korea Seoul is incomprehensible, but the Holy The Australia Sydney North and Mission. Ghost has given me a witness of its South Missions will become the The New Jersey Cherry Hill truthfulness, and I rejoice that I can Australia Sydney Mission. Mission will be consolidated into spend my life in proclaiming it.” The Puerto Rico San Juan East and a realignment of the New Jersey He went on to explain the Church’s West Missions will become the Puerto Morristown and Pennsylvania reliance on sources of truth, including Rico San Juan Mission, with parts of Philadelphia Missions. modern-day revelation and scripture. the east mission being consolidated The Ohio Cincinnati Mission will “We are not grounded in the into the Dominican Republic Santo be consolidated into a realignment of wisdom of the world or the philos- Domingo East and the West Indies the Ohio Columbus and West Virginia ophies of men—however traditional Missions. Charleston Missions. or respected they may be,” he The Germany Hamburg Mission The Spain Bilbao Mission will be said. “Our testimony of Jesus Christ will become part of the Germany consolidated into a realignment of the is based on the revelations of Berlin Mission. Spain Barcelona, Spain Madrid, and God to His prophets and to us The Germany Munich/Austria, Spain Málaga missions. ◼ individually.” ◼

July 2010 77 In the News

Cardinal Lauds by the gospel of Jesus Christ, to defense of shared moral Joint Efforts become the defenders of human principles.” to Defend freedom,” he said. Both churches have stood Religious Freedom Cardinal George, the together on issues such as n the first address given by Archbishop of Chicago and abortion, pornography, and gay Ia cardinal at Brigham Young President of the United States marriage, he noted. University, his Eminence Francis Conference of Catholic Bishops, “Religious freedom cannot Cardinal George said Catholics addressed a group of 12,000 Latter- be reduced to freedom of and Latter-day Saints must stand day Saint students and faculty worship nor even freedom of together in defense of religious members in the Marriott Center in private conscience,” he said. freedom in the United States. Provo, Utah, USA. “Religious freedom means that “When government fails He expressed his gratitude that religious groups as well as reli- to protect the consciences of “Catholics and Latter-day Saints gious individuals have a right to its citizens, it falls to religious have come to see one another exercise their influence in the bodies, especially those formed as trustworthy partners in the public square.” ◼

World Briefs

Ogden Temple Honor Bee Charm Created Exhibit Features to Undergo Renovation In conjunction with several Latin American Saints The nearly 40-year-old changes to the Personal Progress The Church History Museum Ogden Utah Temple will program, an Honor Bee charm recently opened a new bilin- undergo a major 18- to is now available to young gual exhibit called “Mi Vida, 24-month renovation. women who go beyond Mi Historia: Stories of Faith The core design of the the regular requirements. and Inspiration from Latin temple interior will remain To receive the charm, a young American Saints,” which high- the same, but the exterior woman may reread the Book lights spiritual experiences from will feature a new design, of Mormon and complete 40 the lives of 24 members. Their with new stone and glass. additional hours of service after photos are hung throughout The building will be receiving her Young Womanhood the exhibit, and interactive remodeled to meet seis- Recognition medallion. Part of audiovisual kiosks allow visitors mic requirements, feature this service must include helping further insight into participants’ the latest technology, and another young woman complete lives. The exhibit is available include more energy-effi- her Personal Progress goals. This online in Spanish and English cient equipment. An under- award is a small charm is worn at lds.org/museum. Click on ground parking structure on the same necklace with the Exhibits and Galleries, then will also be added. medallion. on Current Exhibits. ◼

78 Liahona Comment Family Home Evening Ideas

They Reflect This issue contains articles and activities that could be used for family home the Savior’s Love evening. The following are a few examples. While studying the First “Blessed by My Calling,” p. 11: As you teach the Presidency Message, we noticed lesson, consider discussing how the Lord eased the the ideas about how to adapt the teachings to small children and to author’s burdens as she served with all her heart. Invite teenagers. These will help our fam- family members to share how they have been blessed ily as well as the families we visit. as they have served the Lord. We know of your commitment to “What Did the Pioneers Bring?” p. 16: Consider making gospel truths simple, per- listing the four points of wisdom President Stephen L sonally applicable, and significantly Richards presents in this article. Discuss how each of these can strengthen your enduring. President Monson is the family and bless the lives of those who follow in your footsteps. prophet of God, and those in the “Sharing the Gospel with Confidence,” p. 30: Consider inviting your family First Presidency reflect the Savior’s to discuss how to apply the following statement from the article: “Please remember love as they teach us and pray for us. We also love them and pray for that you do not need to feel that you must justify your beliefs; you simply need to them. explain them in a spirit of love and kindness. The truth always prevails when true

Dias family, Brazil doctrine is taught.” “He Told Me, ‘No Way,’” p. 58: After reading or summarizing the story, con- Invaluable Posters sider role-playing ways to respond when faced with temptation. Family members The posters in the magazine could practice saying aloud “No way,” just as Chase did. ◼ are invaluable to our family. They send a short, clear, visual message of the teachings of the Church. We have hung a frame next to our What about Family Home Evening? front door, and every few weeks we trade out the poster. This helps “What about family home evening? Aren’t we going to have it tonight?” my six- all of us keep the commandments. year-old daughter, Leilani, asked. A feeling of guilt flooded over me. My husband We have printed every poster and I had been trying to hold family home evening, but with many claims on our available on the Internet since time, we had fallen out of the habit. Leilani’s reminder made us recommit to not 2001—they are truly a blessing to neglect family home evening for any reason. us. Thank you! As Leilani and her sister, Nadia, have gotten older, they have wanted to teach Schwarzwälder family, Germany during family home evening what they have learned in Primary. They even draw their own visual aids to illustrate the principles they want to teach. We rejoice as Please send your feedback or sug- parents to see them talking about the gospel and often can expand on the subject gestions to liahona@ldschurch they have chosen. .org. Submissions may be edited “What about family home evening? Aren’t we going to have it tonight?” are for length or clarity. ◼ words I am trying hard not to hear repeated. I know that when children are young is the best time to teach them. The world may exercise its influence, but if we work and grow alongside our children, we can reach our goal of raising men and women of principle. Patricia Cárdenas de Prado, Guatemala ◼

July 2010 79 Until We Meet Again

Fight, Flee, or Take the Blows? By R. Val Johnson Church Magazines

wasn’t sure what to do that afternoon in my 14th year. I was backed up against the outside

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

80 Liahona Words of Christ May not be copied

The Carriers, by J. Kirk Richards On November 4, 1856, rescuers and the weary Their compassion and courage exemplify the spirit of and starving Martin handcart company came to the Lord’s words in the Sermon on the Mount—as do the Sweetwater River in Wyoming. Chunks of ice the sacrifice and suffering of these handcart Saints floated in the river, which was 100 feet (30 m) wide struggling to Zion. and waist deep in places. When the pioneers saw it, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be memories of the suffering and deaths caused from comforted. . . . crossing the Platte River a few days earlier caused “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteous- many to cry to the Lord for help. Several young ness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. . . . rescuers volunteered to carry women, children, and “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your the weak across the icy river. It took most of the day. reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:4, 10, 12). ENGLISH

4 02092 87000 2 09287 Jul 10 T Earth,” page24. in the pastinanswertoourprayers.See“To Fillthe willopentothelenge. Newareas gospel justasthey have can occuraswedoso.” Letusacceptourprophet’schal- not allowedtoshare the gospel freely atthistime.Miracles where ourinfluence islimitedandwhereareas weare us tocontinueourfaith andprayers“inbehalf ofthose Thomas President S. Monson,hasprophet, calledupon Asotherhave,within their prophets boundaries. our (see above). However, notallnationsallowustoshare the gospel ues today. here lovethe BookofMormon Members has andcontin- countries beenimpressive American he ofthe growth Church inCentralandSouth

courtesy of Church History Museum