Today's Elder's Quorums lesson (which I'm teaching) is from Teaching For Our Times with the focus on two talks, both from the April 2012 General Conference:
The Rescue for Real Growth by Bishop Edgley
Was It Worth It? by Elder Evans
These two talks, along with the many other talks from the April and October 2012 General Conferences are in response to the alarming trend of members leaving the Church.
Consider this quote from Elder Marlin K. Jensen, "Maybe since Kirtland, we've never had a period of - I'll call it apostasy, like we're having now." He told this to a group of Utah State students back in January of 2012. This Reuters article summarizes the discussion held between Elder Marlin and the college students: Special Report: Mormonism besieged by the modern age.
For my lesson, which I'm calling REAL GROWTH, I plan on dividing it up into three parts:
1) on the chalk board, write a list of all less-active people in our ward - it is more of an awareness activity for members of the class (i.e. do we know who we should be rescuing?)
2) ideas, comments and discussion from Rescue for Real Growth
3) ideas, comments and discussion from Was It Worth It? which is really a talk about one's personal testimony.
Each of these parts will have a column on the chalk board. Then I'll have a 4th column entitled "Real Growth" and I'll be writing in that column what "real growth" means. Besides comments from the class, I will draw and share ideas from a couple of LDS links: What is Real Growth? and Worldwide Leadership Training Highlights Path to Real Growth.
Rescue For Real Growth
- one of the most meaningful and important ways to establish real growth in the Church is to reach out and rescue those who have been baptized yet are wandering in a less-active state.
- story of visiting a ward as stake president; bishop wanted to split ward; he interviewed and called a less-active member to be a stake missionary w/o knowing she was less-active
- from this he learned:
* many less-actives have loved one praying for them
* it's not easy for less-actives to just walk back into church
* some less-actives are trying and willing to come back
* many less-actives will hold callings if asked
* less-actives deserve to be treated as an equal (to an active) and to be viewed as a child of god
- we should see less-actives not only as a single child of god, but as generations of blessed lives (story of older member who fell away, came back, but now laments the inactivity of all his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.)
Was It Worth It?
- our most important work is always within our own home and family. it is within families that the church is established and real growth occurs
- attending church, fhe, prayer, scripture study, fulfill callings, visit the sick and lonely, teach, share testimony, write letters to missionaries and military service personnel, show love and forgiveness
- share the gospel with others; naturally and normally
- story of Dave; his friend was in college, returning to activity, invited Dave to the next interview with his bishop; was later baptized, married and sealed in temple.
- story of Eileen who felt inspired to send her less-active friend a book. Eileen later learned from her friend that she too felt inspired to send a letter to the same less-active friend
- seek the spirit in inviting others; "never delay a prompting"
REAL GROWTH
- growth in the number of active members
- increased faithfulness of members (daily prayer, scripture study, fhe, love at home, personal experiences with the atonement
- receive the temple blessings and covenants
- achieving the end goal of eternal life and exaltation for all of god's children requires real growth in our homes and wards
- whole families = real growth
- the making and keeping of temple covenants
- 'real growth is a constant effort, and it is a blessing that comes when we are able to save and help one another, particularly one by one.'
- we aren't just trying to get people back to church, but rather, to the temple
- real growth comes as we apply gospel principles in our daily lives
direct link to talks from 2012 Worldwide Leadership Training
Showing posts with label Missionary Work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Missionary Work. Show all posts
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Kingwood Stake "Regulations"
President Paulson spoke of a regulation throughout the church. Here are the five regulations he wants implemented in Kingwood Stake:
1. Member Missionary Work - pray for those who are prepared, so we would be led to them. Then pary to open our mouth. Pray to be prompted about what we should talk to them about. Invite. Hour of Power every Thursday at 5:55pm.
2. Temple Worthiness Attendance - Tithing - the Lord will work your finances; protection for the family. The plague of porn continues. If you've dabbled in lots or a little, go see your bishop. Lay aside the things of the world.
3. Be a Zion like People - be united, we are a family.
4. Strengthen Families - 65% of young men are attending church in our stake. There are too many distractions. We have to put those activities that strengthen faith, first.
5. Focus on People - Christ didn't bustle between meetings working to-do lists and multi-tasking. Pray to find those who need us.
Final Though: make an inventory of things to repent of and then do the top 3.
1. Member Missionary Work - pray for those who are prepared, so we would be led to them. Then pary to open our mouth. Pray to be prompted about what we should talk to them about. Invite. Hour of Power every Thursday at 5:55pm.
2. Temple Worthiness Attendance - Tithing - the Lord will work your finances; protection for the family. The plague of porn continues. If you've dabbled in lots or a little, go see your bishop. Lay aside the things of the world.
3. Be a Zion like People - be united, we are a family.
4. Strengthen Families - 65% of young men are attending church in our stake. There are too many distractions. We have to put those activities that strengthen faith, first.
5. Focus on People - Christ didn't bustle between meetings working to-do lists and multi-tasking. Pray to find those who need us.
Final Though: make an inventory of things to repent of and then do the top 3.
Thursday, September 06, 2012
On the Brink of a New Era of Prosperity Enabling Wider Sharing of the Gospel
In talking to my dad last week, our conversation, as often is the case, shifted to politics and the economy. I told him my blunt opinion: that if the current policies and direction of the country are reversed and that if the energy industry is allowed to fully pursue the abundance of resources in America, that virtually all our current national problems would be solved (see recent NYTimes article on this subject. The sentiment of the article is not unique; this opinion has been stated many times in many places.)
He responded by saying something very interesting. He mentioned that my niece recently attended a YSA conference in California and that Elder Ballard talked about how one of the greatest challenges facing the youth today will be dealing with prosperity. Elder Ballard also said that this new prosperity will help further spread the gospel throughout the world.
I found a video of this talk on youtube ... click this link to jump right to the point where he begins to discuss, at length, the topic of prosperity and the gospel.
"America's New Energy Reality" by Daniel Yergin
He responded by saying something very interesting. He mentioned that my niece recently attended a YSA conference in California and that Elder Ballard talked about how one of the greatest challenges facing the youth today will be dealing with prosperity. Elder Ballard also said that this new prosperity will help further spread the gospel throughout the world.
I found a video of this talk on youtube ... click this link to jump right to the point where he begins to discuss, at length, the topic of prosperity and the gospel.
"America's New Energy Reality" by Daniel Yergin
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Sunday School Lesson Notes from Ward Conference
The counselor in our stake presidency gave the lesson in our Sunday School today. I always enjoy his talks and discussions. Despite the fact that I feel so overwhelmed at the fact of how much I yet lack, when listening to him, I still feel animated to go and do.
However, this hodge-podge lesson he gave, fell a bit flat. But there were some gems.
He started off by asking what the themes were in Sacrament Meeting when the stake president spoke along with the bishop.
- strengthen the family
- rescue
- youth attendance to meetings
- missionary tours of the buildings
- faith in Christ
- make and keep covenants
- act, don't wait
- gain a testimony
He spoke that these 'meetings' are not meetings; but they are revelatory sessions.
Boys have been called as missionaries. We need more of them and we need them to be better prepared missionaries.
We need to strengthen the Melchizedek Priesthood base ... it is about the fathers of the boys.
Come unto Christ; rejoice in Christ.
Pay attention to the media - make sure it is not consuming your home.
Study the scriptures thirty minutes a day. Part of that should be in the Book of Mormon.
Read the first chapter in the new Handbook of Instructions.
- actions, desires of heart and kind of person you've become - these are the basis of your judgement.
Then he shared a story of John Robinson who wrote a letter to the people on the Mayflower. (Somehow he was a descendant of someone in the Mayflower or even John Robinson himself .. and he learned this while do Family History work.) He advised them to repent daily. If they did not, they would be swallowed by the dangers of others.
His counsel to us is: think of unrepented sins; think of repented sins.
However, this hodge-podge lesson he gave, fell a bit flat. But there were some gems.
He started off by asking what the themes were in Sacrament Meeting when the stake president spoke along with the bishop.
- strengthen the family
- rescue
- youth attendance to meetings
- missionary tours of the buildings
- faith in Christ
- make and keep covenants
- act, don't wait
- gain a testimony
He spoke that these 'meetings' are not meetings; but they are revelatory sessions.
Boys have been called as missionaries. We need more of them and we need them to be better prepared missionaries.
We need to strengthen the Melchizedek Priesthood base ... it is about the fathers of the boys.
Come unto Christ; rejoice in Christ.
Pay attention to the media - make sure it is not consuming your home.
Study the scriptures thirty minutes a day. Part of that should be in the Book of Mormon.
Read the first chapter in the new Handbook of Instructions.
- actions, desires of heart and kind of person you've become - these are the basis of your judgement.
Then he shared a story of John Robinson who wrote a letter to the people on the Mayflower. (Somehow he was a descendant of someone in the Mayflower or even John Robinson himself .. and he learned this while do Family History work.) He advised them to repent daily. If they did not, they would be swallowed by the dangers of others.
His counsel to us is: think of unrepented sins; think of repented sins.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Five Prophetic Priorities
Our Stake President spoke in our ward today. He's discussed the Five Prophetic Priorities before and he spoke on them again today. I felt impressed to take notes.
1) Build faith in Christ
2) Strengthen the Family
3) Convert, Retain, Activate
4) Strengthen Melchizedek Priesthood base
5) Prepare and increase the number of full-time missionaries
He then shared with us his notes while he reviewed every General Conference talk President Monson has given since he became prophet.
* "serious attention" to missionary work. Young Men: prepare now. Age 8 is not too early to begin preparing.
* Gratitude - be thankful for what God has given us.
* Preparing for missions
* Temple - the means of strengthening the family
* Anger
* We should pray for nations to open the doors to the missionaries. He said we should include this plea in our personal prayers as well as our prayers from the pulpits.
* Doing something for someone
* Be of good cheer
* Avoid pornography and study the messages of General Conference
* Pray for the opening of areas (again)
* Learn, Do, Be.
* Reaching out to others.
* Joy in the Journey
* Be an example of teachings of Christ. Love our families and treat our wives with dignity.
President Paulson then asked, "Has he talked about the five prophetic priorities?" Yes!
It was a good talk. I'm encouraged to go back and study those talks again from the last few General Conferences.
I've been diligent in taking notes in Gospel Doctrine class too. Go on over to my New Testament Study blog to read notes I took from today.
1) Build faith in Christ
2) Strengthen the Family
3) Convert, Retain, Activate
4) Strengthen Melchizedek Priesthood base
5) Prepare and increase the number of full-time missionaries
He then shared with us his notes while he reviewed every General Conference talk President Monson has given since he became prophet.
* "serious attention" to missionary work. Young Men: prepare now. Age 8 is not too early to begin preparing.
* Gratitude - be thankful for what God has given us.
* Preparing for missions
* Temple - the means of strengthening the family
* Anger
* We should pray for nations to open the doors to the missionaries. He said we should include this plea in our personal prayers as well as our prayers from the pulpits.
* Doing something for someone
* Be of good cheer
* Avoid pornography and study the messages of General Conference
* Pray for the opening of areas (again)
* Learn, Do, Be.
* Reaching out to others.
* Joy in the Journey
* Be an example of teachings of Christ. Love our families and treat our wives with dignity.
President Paulson then asked, "Has he talked about the five prophetic priorities?" Yes!
It was a good talk. I'm encouraged to go back and study those talks again from the last few General Conferences.
I've been diligent in taking notes in Gospel Doctrine class too. Go on over to my New Testament Study blog to read notes I took from today.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Oct 2008 General Conference Notes: Sun AM Session
*Personal commentary, thoughts and inspirations are underlined
President Henry B. Eyring
Message of unity. The Lord's prophets have always called for unity. The challenge to maintain it will grow difficult. We are doing well as a people.
Our hearts will be knit together in unity (see Mosiah 18:21)
We should pray and ask for the blessing of unity. God's desire is to grant us this blessing. We must seek it and qualify for it.
We can receive guidance and encouragement from the story of Alma the Elder and those who followed him. "One eye, one faith, one baptism ... hearts knit together" (Mosiah 18:21)
When testimony of Christ is born, the Spirit testifies the truth of it and our hearts become knit together.
We need to be humble to be united. Pride is the enemy of unity.
Ask help from God to help others see common ground ... to be a peacemaker.
We need to speak well of each other. Sometimes we must judge others. Most of the time we have a choice. If you can't say anything good about a person, don't say anything at all. We can choose to "step away" from sowing seeds of dissension.
The saints can accomplish anything when our hearts are unified.
The unity we now experience will increase.
Elder Robert D. Hales
Why would someone want to attack us when we have taken upon us the name of Christ? We may feel inclined, when our faith is attacked, to "put up our dukes" and attack back. But we should prayerfully respond. Study the way Christ responded to various attacks on him.
To love our enemies ... that takes faith and strength and Christian courage.
True disciples of Christ see opportunities in opposition. Example: Abinadi & Alma.
As true disciples, seek guidance from the spirit ... seek to give customize counsel when we respond. We must never become contentious, but by the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) Quiet confidence, not boastful pride. We should be guileless.
In some instances, we are better off just walking away and avoiding the situation all together. Some people bait us to leave the high ground. Do not leave it ... it is the safe ground ... where the truth and light is. Lehonti was coaxed to come down from the mount and was poisoned by degrees (see Alma 47) Some want us to enter a theological scrum. "I am doing a great work and I cannot come down" (Nehemiah 6:3). Muster Christian courage and move on.
To those who would argue, we must love them no matter what.
Bishop Keith B. McMullin
We are all children of our Heavenly Father. We are to love our "neighbor." Everyone is our neighbor.
By fasting and donating a fast offering, we serve our neighbors. It is heaven's help in a practical way.
We are commanded to pray to God in the name of Jesus Christ. Heavely Father answers all sincere prayers. Priesthood blessings are another form of prayer. The story of Janice who was run over by a bus. She was given a blessing to fully recover and lead a normal life. She is now a grandmother and has not suffered single effect from that accident.
We must be careful in the use of Christ's name.
Sister Elaine S. Dalton
A call to virtue. A pattern of thought and behavior based on high standards. Accumulation of 1000s of daily actions. Quiet dignity and inner strength.
Lehonti was well positioned on the mount. But after 4 tries, Lehonti came down and was poisoned by degrees.
We must return to virtue ... return to strict to training. The will to win is the will to prepare.
I was inspired this morning while driving to work to dig up my old "Putnam Papers" I wrote and put together while on my mission. I was truly inspired to remember those words I wrote to myself 11 years ago. I am reviewing them now and will continue to review them. This is my return to virtue.
"When He shall appear, we shall be like him" (Moroni 7:48)
Elder M. Russell Ballard
Joseph Smith was aware that that Saints would be driven to the Rocky Mountains where they would become a great people. The Church has grown from small numbers to the great organization it is today.
There really isn't a whole lot to note about Elder Ballad's talk. He did a review of the growth of the history of the Church. It is amazing to listen how far the Church has come. In 22 years, we'll see the 200th anniversary of the Church. Can you imagine what will happen between today and 2030? What marvelous times we live in.
The works and the designs and purposes of God cannot be frustrated.
The Lord isn't asking us to load up a handcart ... but to shore up our faith. Not to walk across a nation, but to cross the street. Not a martyr's death, but a disciple's life.
We must carry on the rich tradition of those who have established this church. Our testimonies must run deep.
President Thomas S. Monson
Nothing is as constant as change. We must always deal with change.
This life is short. The longer we live, the more we realize how brief this life is. We also learn what is most important. Find joy in the journey now.
"If you pile up enough tomorrows, and you'll find that you've collected a lot of empty yesterdays."
Do all that you can in providing pleasant memories for the future. Do not let stresses get in the way of what is most important. What is most important is those who are around us. We won't regret hugs, and wishes of love. But we will regret missed opportunities of hugs and wishes of love.
One day, each of us will run out of tomorrows.
He spoke of Borghild Dahl who faced vision problems early in life. But she endured and had a desire to learn and participate. She lead a wonderful life, received an education and eventually had her vision restored. She expressed these words after receiving her sight: "Dear father in heaven. I thank thee. I thank thee"
"In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God" The story of the 10 lepers.
Christ taught us how to live.
I've always loved listening to President Monson and his tender stories. I simply forget to take notes when listening to him. His talks are flashy, but make you quietly ponder the teachings of the Savior. He weaves the teachings of the Savior so beautifully into his talks. What a wonderful talk!
President Henry B. Eyring
Message of unity. The Lord's prophets have always called for unity. The challenge to maintain it will grow difficult. We are doing well as a people.
Our hearts will be knit together in unity (see Mosiah 18:21)
We should pray and ask for the blessing of unity. God's desire is to grant us this blessing. We must seek it and qualify for it.
We can receive guidance and encouragement from the story of Alma the Elder and those who followed him. "One eye, one faith, one baptism ... hearts knit together" (Mosiah 18:21)
When testimony of Christ is born, the Spirit testifies the truth of it and our hearts become knit together.
We need to be humble to be united. Pride is the enemy of unity.
Ask help from God to help others see common ground ... to be a peacemaker.
We need to speak well of each other. Sometimes we must judge others. Most of the time we have a choice. If you can't say anything good about a person, don't say anything at all. We can choose to "step away" from sowing seeds of dissension.
The saints can accomplish anything when our hearts are unified.
The unity we now experience will increase.
Elder Robert D. Hales
Why would someone want to attack us when we have taken upon us the name of Christ? We may feel inclined, when our faith is attacked, to "put up our dukes" and attack back. But we should prayerfully respond. Study the way Christ responded to various attacks on him.
To love our enemies ... that takes faith and strength and Christian courage.
True disciples of Christ see opportunities in opposition. Example: Abinadi & Alma.
As true disciples, seek guidance from the spirit ... seek to give customize counsel when we respond. We must never become contentious, but by the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) Quiet confidence, not boastful pride. We should be guileless.
In some instances, we are better off just walking away and avoiding the situation all together. Some people bait us to leave the high ground. Do not leave it ... it is the safe ground ... where the truth and light is. Lehonti was coaxed to come down from the mount and was poisoned by degrees (see Alma 47) Some want us to enter a theological scrum. "I am doing a great work and I cannot come down" (Nehemiah 6:3). Muster Christian courage and move on.
To those who would argue, we must love them no matter what.
Bishop Keith B. McMullin
We are all children of our Heavenly Father. We are to love our "neighbor." Everyone is our neighbor.
By fasting and donating a fast offering, we serve our neighbors. It is heaven's help in a practical way.
We are commanded to pray to God in the name of Jesus Christ. Heavely Father answers all sincere prayers. Priesthood blessings are another form of prayer. The story of Janice who was run over by a bus. She was given a blessing to fully recover and lead a normal life. She is now a grandmother and has not suffered single effect from that accident.
We must be careful in the use of Christ's name.
Sister Elaine S. Dalton
A call to virtue. A pattern of thought and behavior based on high standards. Accumulation of 1000s of daily actions. Quiet dignity and inner strength.
Lehonti was well positioned on the mount. But after 4 tries, Lehonti came down and was poisoned by degrees.
We must return to virtue ... return to strict to training. The will to win is the will to prepare.
I was inspired this morning while driving to work to dig up my old "Putnam Papers" I wrote and put together while on my mission. I was truly inspired to remember those words I wrote to myself 11 years ago. I am reviewing them now and will continue to review them. This is my return to virtue.
"When He shall appear, we shall be like him" (Moroni 7:48)
Elder M. Russell Ballard
Joseph Smith was aware that that Saints would be driven to the Rocky Mountains where they would become a great people. The Church has grown from small numbers to the great organization it is today.
There really isn't a whole lot to note about Elder Ballad's talk. He did a review of the growth of the history of the Church. It is amazing to listen how far the Church has come. In 22 years, we'll see the 200th anniversary of the Church. Can you imagine what will happen between today and 2030? What marvelous times we live in.
The works and the designs and purposes of God cannot be frustrated.
The Lord isn't asking us to load up a handcart ... but to shore up our faith. Not to walk across a nation, but to cross the street. Not a martyr's death, but a disciple's life.
We must carry on the rich tradition of those who have established this church. Our testimonies must run deep.
President Thomas S. Monson
Nothing is as constant as change. We must always deal with change.
This life is short. The longer we live, the more we realize how brief this life is. We also learn what is most important. Find joy in the journey now.
"If you pile up enough tomorrows, and you'll find that you've collected a lot of empty yesterdays."
Do all that you can in providing pleasant memories for the future. Do not let stresses get in the way of what is most important. What is most important is those who are around us. We won't regret hugs, and wishes of love. But we will regret missed opportunities of hugs and wishes of love.
One day, each of us will run out of tomorrows.
He spoke of Borghild Dahl who faced vision problems early in life. But she endured and had a desire to learn and participate. She lead a wonderful life, received an education and eventually had her vision restored. She expressed these words after receiving her sight: "Dear father in heaven. I thank thee. I thank thee"
"In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God" The story of the 10 lepers.
Christ taught us how to live.
I've always loved listening to President Monson and his tender stories. I simply forget to take notes when listening to him. His talks are flashy, but make you quietly ponder the teachings of the Savior. He weaves the teachings of the Savior so beautifully into his talks. What a wonderful talk!
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Oct 2008 General Conference Notes: Sat AM Session
*Personal commentary, thoughts and inspirations are underlined.
President Thomas S. Monson
128 temples in the world. Five more temples to be built:
Calgary, Canada; Cordoba, Argentina; Kansas City, United States; Philadelphia, United States; Rome, Italy (gasps from audience).
Pray for the opening of those areas in which the Church is not currently operating.
Elder L. Tom Perry
Patterns of life's tests; ups and downs ... we sometimes experience stress. Our challenge is to endure these tough times with optimism.
"We know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true and the best is yet to come."
Thoreau's Walden ... the simple life. There were only 4 things a man needs food clothing shelter fuel
Food
D&C 88:15 - spirit and body= soul of man. D&C 89 - word of wisdom. For the Strength of Youth - observe WoW, eat nutritious food, exercise, get enough sleep. Do not abuse drugs, prescription medication, household chemicals
Clothing
Simple and modest clothing. It sends a message to others, affects the way we act around others. Very casual dress is followed by casual manners. Some dress and get the "wrong kind of attention" Fashion-conscious mockers in great and spacious building ... others felt ashamed and were lost because of the mockers.
Shelter
The current housing crisis. DO NOT live beyond your means ... a message regularly given in General Conference. Do not run into debt. The majority of our troubles are because of lack of heed to this counsel. Live within income, stay out of debt, save for a rainy day. Well-managed families do not pay interest, they earn it.
Amen to this!! We have little debt, but we can do a lot better in our finances, food storage and savings.
Fuel
Walden discussed biological fuel. Perry discusses spiritual fuel. Acquire knowledge of god's eternal plan, surrender our will to Gods.
May we earnestly seek to simplify our lives.
I want to re-read "Walden" Does our life style need simplification?
Sister Allred
The Lord's church has the responsibility to teach the gospel in the world. The blessings of the gospel have touched 4 generations of her family. Each family has served missions who in turn have had a positive impact on many, many others.
How can I assist in missionary work? First have a clear understanding that God loves all his children. Second, learn that the message of the Christ and the Restoration is the most important message. Be a good example. Live a gospel-centered life. Be specific in your efforts. Prepare kids for missionary service. Invite friends to activities. Go with missionaries on visits. Invite people to family history centers. Share your beliefs. Send letters to full-time missionaries.
I need to pray for more missionary opportunities. Jill is such a good example of missionary work.
Elder Neil Anderson
"You don't know everything, but you know enough." Our spiritual journey is a process of a lifetime. Foundation of faith in Jesus Christ ... baptism, Holy Ghost, repentance, prayer, Book of Mormon ... we remain steady and patient. You don't know everything, but you know enough to keep the commandments.
Missionary about to leave. Talked about a life full of challenges. He didn't know if God even loved him. "You do know God loves you." He bowed his head and cried. "I do know it" That knowledge was enough to keep him on his mission.
We each have moments of strength and inspiration that sink deep. These times can be spiritual storage ... Jesus Christ: "settle this in your hearts" (Luke 21:14) So true ... do we stop and think to use this reservoir more often? Do we seek opportunities to replenish it as often as possible?
We have enormous spiritual reservoirs at our disposal. "Be not afraid, only believe"
"We come to know what we already knew."
Faith of Child
Story of Hadly the little girl who was born deaf. She saw a boy with no legs and asked her mom why. Heavenly Father makes everyone special. Hadly told boy that she is deaf and then testified to him that one day he will have legs and she will be able to hear.
Elder Marcos Aidukaitis
The faith of his father is a great example to Marcos. His father was able to go through difficult times because he read the Book of Mormon regularly. The Book of Mormon combined with the Spirit is the most powerful resource to conversion.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
We live in the perilous times spoken of by Paul. How can we have the Spirit to guide our choices and keep us on the path? "Go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments ... " By participating in the sacrament, we will always have the Spirit with us.
Wilford Woodruff ... the Spirit is the greatest gift than can be bestowed on man.
Some in the rising generation have not yet come to understand the significance of this meeting and the important of individual reverence in this meeting.
How we should prepare to take the sacrament
Elder Nelson taught the priesthood leaders how to plan and conduct sac. meetings. We bring a broken heart and contrite spirit. It is the highlight of our Sabbath day. Prelude music is subdued. No communication ... prayerful meditation.
We should have a broken heart and contrite spirit.
How we dress is important. It is like going to the temple.
We should concentrate on worship and refrain from all other activities, especially if it interferes with others. Not a time to read books/magazines. Not a time for texting or whispering. We promise to ALWAYS remember him. How sad that some violate this during the sac.
Music - everyone should join in the singing. This music is for worship, not performance.
How can we get our kids to understand these principals? I need to get off this shift schedule so I can consistently help teach this to the kids.
To those who officiate the sacrament
Speak slowly and clearly when saying the sacred prayers. Those who officiate the sac should be clean. They should dress appropriately. All should be well-groomed and modestly dressed. Elder Holland: white shirt for deacons, teachers, priests who administer the sacrament.
Administered by those who hold/exercise the keys to this ordinance
This is why we don't hold sacrament meetings in homes and family reunions.
Choir is singing
the last 90 minutes have flown by. I've not been this attentive to Gen Conf since before we had kids! Ironically, I am working the day shift and it is a quiet day. Typing up my notes has helped me focus on the speakers' messages too.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf
He is telling the story of how his family fled Czechoslovakia. On a train trip, she left her kids on the train to get some food. When she returned, the train was gone! I can't imagine the horror she felt. She prayed and ran from track to track and train to train and finally found her 4 children. He wondered how she overcame the fear and despair on that cold winter night.
The Infinite Power of Hope
Hope is one leg of a three-legged stool of faith, hope and charity. Hope is a principal of promise and a commandment.
Why is there despair? There must be opposition in all things.
What is hope? This hope of which is speaks transcends the trivial. Confidence if we live according to God's laws, we will receive the blessings. It is believe and expecting our prayers will be answered. Optimism, enthusiasm, patience perseverance. A hope glorifying God with goods works. Patience to bear our afflictions.
Things hoped for: future events. Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we will live forever. We can be cleansed of our sins. The Savior is the author of our salvation.
Things we hope in: sustain us in our daily walk. They uphold us in our trails. We hope in Jesus Christ. In times of distress, we can hope that things will work together for our good as we keep the commandments.
We cultivate hope the same way we learn to walk ... one step at a time. Pray daily, pay tithes and live the gospel more perfectly. There will be times where everything around us is dark, but within us we find an invincible summer. The brighter our hope, the greater our faith.
This is what I feel whenever I contemplate my career or our kids growing up in this wicked world or when I think of the perilous times that are yet ahead. I know things will get much, much darker before they get brighter. But in my heart of hearts, I know that things will get brighter. We have so much to hope for. It is easy to despair. But we must always hope and have faith.
President Thomas S. Monson
128 temples in the world. Five more temples to be built:
Calgary, Canada; Cordoba, Argentina; Kansas City, United States; Philadelphia, United States; Rome, Italy (gasps from audience).
Pray for the opening of those areas in which the Church is not currently operating.
Elder L. Tom Perry
Patterns of life's tests; ups and downs ... we sometimes experience stress. Our challenge is to endure these tough times with optimism.
"We know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true and the best is yet to come."
Thoreau's Walden ... the simple life. There were only 4 things a man needs food clothing shelter fuel
Food
D&C 88:15 - spirit and body= soul of man. D&C 89 - word of wisdom. For the Strength of Youth - observe WoW, eat nutritious food, exercise, get enough sleep. Do not abuse drugs, prescription medication, household chemicals
Clothing
Simple and modest clothing. It sends a message to others, affects the way we act around others. Very casual dress is followed by casual manners. Some dress and get the "wrong kind of attention" Fashion-conscious mockers in great and spacious building ... others felt ashamed and were lost because of the mockers.
Shelter
The current housing crisis. DO NOT live beyond your means ... a message regularly given in General Conference. Do not run into debt. The majority of our troubles are because of lack of heed to this counsel. Live within income, stay out of debt, save for a rainy day. Well-managed families do not pay interest, they earn it.
Amen to this!! We have little debt, but we can do a lot better in our finances, food storage and savings.
Fuel
Walden discussed biological fuel. Perry discusses spiritual fuel. Acquire knowledge of god's eternal plan, surrender our will to Gods.
May we earnestly seek to simplify our lives.
I want to re-read "Walden" Does our life style need simplification?
Sister Allred
The Lord's church has the responsibility to teach the gospel in the world. The blessings of the gospel have touched 4 generations of her family. Each family has served missions who in turn have had a positive impact on many, many others.
How can I assist in missionary work? First have a clear understanding that God loves all his children. Second, learn that the message of the Christ and the Restoration is the most important message. Be a good example. Live a gospel-centered life. Be specific in your efforts. Prepare kids for missionary service. Invite friends to activities. Go with missionaries on visits. Invite people to family history centers. Share your beliefs. Send letters to full-time missionaries.
I need to pray for more missionary opportunities. Jill is such a good example of missionary work.
Elder Neil Anderson
"You don't know everything, but you know enough." Our spiritual journey is a process of a lifetime. Foundation of faith in Jesus Christ ... baptism, Holy Ghost, repentance, prayer, Book of Mormon ... we remain steady and patient. You don't know everything, but you know enough to keep the commandments.
Missionary about to leave. Talked about a life full of challenges. He didn't know if God even loved him. "You do know God loves you." He bowed his head and cried. "I do know it" That knowledge was enough to keep him on his mission.
We each have moments of strength and inspiration that sink deep. These times can be spiritual storage ... Jesus Christ: "settle this in your hearts" (Luke 21:14) So true ... do we stop and think to use this reservoir more often? Do we seek opportunities to replenish it as often as possible?
We have enormous spiritual reservoirs at our disposal. "Be not afraid, only believe"
"We come to know what we already knew."
Faith of Child
Story of Hadly the little girl who was born deaf. She saw a boy with no legs and asked her mom why. Heavenly Father makes everyone special. Hadly told boy that she is deaf and then testified to him that one day he will have legs and she will be able to hear.
Elder Marcos Aidukaitis
The faith of his father is a great example to Marcos. His father was able to go through difficult times because he read the Book of Mormon regularly. The Book of Mormon combined with the Spirit is the most powerful resource to conversion.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
We live in the perilous times spoken of by Paul. How can we have the Spirit to guide our choices and keep us on the path? "Go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments ... " By participating in the sacrament, we will always have the Spirit with us.
Wilford Woodruff ... the Spirit is the greatest gift than can be bestowed on man.
Some in the rising generation have not yet come to understand the significance of this meeting and the important of individual reverence in this meeting.
How we should prepare to take the sacrament
Elder Nelson taught the priesthood leaders how to plan and conduct sac. meetings. We bring a broken heart and contrite spirit. It is the highlight of our Sabbath day. Prelude music is subdued. No communication ... prayerful meditation.
We should have a broken heart and contrite spirit.
How we dress is important. It is like going to the temple.
We should concentrate on worship and refrain from all other activities, especially if it interferes with others. Not a time to read books/magazines. Not a time for texting or whispering. We promise to ALWAYS remember him. How sad that some violate this during the sac.
Music - everyone should join in the singing. This music is for worship, not performance.
How can we get our kids to understand these principals? I need to get off this shift schedule so I can consistently help teach this to the kids.
To those who officiate the sacrament
Speak slowly and clearly when saying the sacred prayers. Those who officiate the sac should be clean. They should dress appropriately. All should be well-groomed and modestly dressed. Elder Holland: white shirt for deacons, teachers, priests who administer the sacrament.
Administered by those who hold/exercise the keys to this ordinance
This is why we don't hold sacrament meetings in homes and family reunions.
Choir is singing
the last 90 minutes have flown by. I've not been this attentive to Gen Conf since before we had kids! Ironically, I am working the day shift and it is a quiet day. Typing up my notes has helped me focus on the speakers' messages too.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf
He is telling the story of how his family fled Czechoslovakia. On a train trip, she left her kids on the train to get some food. When she returned, the train was gone! I can't imagine the horror she felt. She prayed and ran from track to track and train to train and finally found her 4 children. He wondered how she overcame the fear and despair on that cold winter night.
The Infinite Power of Hope
Hope is one leg of a three-legged stool of faith, hope and charity. Hope is a principal of promise and a commandment.
Why is there despair? There must be opposition in all things.
What is hope? This hope of which is speaks transcends the trivial. Confidence if we live according to God's laws, we will receive the blessings. It is believe and expecting our prayers will be answered. Optimism, enthusiasm, patience perseverance. A hope glorifying God with goods works. Patience to bear our afflictions.
Things hoped for: future events. Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we will live forever. We can be cleansed of our sins. The Savior is the author of our salvation.
Things we hope in: sustain us in our daily walk. They uphold us in our trails. We hope in Jesus Christ. In times of distress, we can hope that things will work together for our good as we keep the commandments.
We cultivate hope the same way we learn to walk ... one step at a time. Pray daily, pay tithes and live the gospel more perfectly. There will be times where everything around us is dark, but within us we find an invincible summer. The brighter our hope, the greater our faith.
This is what I feel whenever I contemplate my career or our kids growing up in this wicked world or when I think of the perilous times that are yet ahead. I know things will get much, much darker before they get brighter. But in my heart of hearts, I know that things will get brighter. We have so much to hope for. It is easy to despair. But we must always hope and have faith.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
"12 Ways to Share the Gospel on the Internet"
From the More Good Foundation blog (see post here):
- Answer a Question at Yahoo! Answers
- Blog your testimony in your mission language
- Blog what you learned in Sunday School
- Edit Mormonwiki.com or Wikipedia.org
- Link to good websites (not just lds.org)
- Podcast your parents and grandparents
- Post mission and wedding photos on Flickr
- Post your testimony on mormontestimonies.org
- Post your video testimony on YouTube
- Share your beliefs in a Facebook Note
- Tell someone in Second Life about the Church
- Volunteer with the More Good Foundation
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Be Ready to Share
When the Winter Olympics were held in Salt Lake City, Utah, many members had a chance to explain our beliefs to others who were curious. Sometimes any publicity is good publicity.
This year and next year we'll be seeing and hearing a lot more about the former governor of Massachusettes Mitt Romney. Today, Drudge had a link to a NY Times about an article that discussed Romney's religion as an issue.
So be prepared to field questions about Mormonism during this presidential election cycle.
This year and next year we'll be seeing and hearing a lot more about the former governor of Massachusettes Mitt Romney. Today, Drudge had a link to a NY Times about an article that discussed Romney's religion as an issue.
So be prepared to field questions about Mormonism during this presidential election cycle.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Web Participation
I took two negotiation classes in my MBA program. One of the repeating lessons I learned from those two classes as well as from another class is the importance of sharing information and knowledge.
For example, in a managing teams class demonstation, we played this game where half a dozen teams or so were "countries" and each contry's goal was to maximize on their gains. We did this by trading cards. Each card had some tid-bit of information. Anyway, the gist of it was that every nation only had a small part of information. Everyone was so concerned about giving away too much information that we all horded it. By the end of the class, a few of us convinced the majority of the nations to begin sharing information. By then, though, time had expired and the demonstation was over. If we had been quicker to share information, many of the groups would have been close to maximizing their profits.
Today I read a post over at the blog for the More Good Foundation. The point of the post was to convince members of the Church to participate in the Internet. I wholly agree with this. Just as in the real World, if we sit back and do nothing, the tides of evil will wash over us. But if we add our voice to the collective choir, then our voice will be louder than the dischord of evil.
So how does this relate to my point about sharing information? I think that the more we share our testimonies and what we are learning from the Gospel, the more likly someone who is "surfing" will stumble on your site and have a spark of interest ignite within himself. Your sharing might help a friend or a family member who reads your blog or your testimony ... just think testimony meeting. We share, we feel the Spirit, we grow.
For example, in a managing teams class demonstation, we played this game where half a dozen teams or so were "countries" and each contry's goal was to maximize on their gains. We did this by trading cards. Each card had some tid-bit of information. Anyway, the gist of it was that every nation only had a small part of information. Everyone was so concerned about giving away too much information that we all horded it. By the end of the class, a few of us convinced the majority of the nations to begin sharing information. By then, though, time had expired and the demonstation was over. If we had been quicker to share information, many of the groups would have been close to maximizing their profits.
Today I read a post over at the blog for the More Good Foundation. The point of the post was to convince members of the Church to participate in the Internet. I wholly agree with this. Just as in the real World, if we sit back and do nothing, the tides of evil will wash over us. But if we add our voice to the collective choir, then our voice will be louder than the dischord of evil.
So how does this relate to my point about sharing information? I think that the more we share our testimonies and what we are learning from the Gospel, the more likly someone who is "surfing" will stumble on your site and have a spark of interest ignite within himself. Your sharing might help a friend or a family member who reads your blog or your testimony ... just think testimony meeting. We share, we feel the Spirit, we grow.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)