FHE LessonsLessons and ideas for family home evening!

Scripture

John 13:34

34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

Hymn

  A Happy Family - Primary Songbook #198 or Home Can Be a Heaven on Earth- Hymn #298

A Happy Family

1. I love mother*; she loves me.
We love daddy*, yes sirree;
He loves us, and so you see,
We are a happy family.

2. I love sister*; she loves me.
We love brother*, yes sirree;
He loves us, and so you see,
We are a happy family.

The Prince’s Dog

There is an old Welsh story from the 13th century about a prince who returned home to find his dog with blood dripping down its face. The man rushed inside and, to his horror, saw that his baby boy was missing and his cradle overturned. In anger the prince pulled out his sword and killed his dog. Shortly thereafter, he heard the cry of his son—the babe was alive! By the infant’s side lay a dead wolf. The dog had, in reality, defended the prince’s baby from a murderous wolf.

Though this story is dramatic, it demonstrates a point. It opens the possibility that the story we tell ourselves about why others behave a certain way does not always agree with the facts—sometimes we don’t even want to know the facts. We would rather feel self-justified in our anger by holding onto our bitterness and resentment. Sometimes these grudges can last months or years. Sometimes they can last a lifetime.

A Family Divided

One father could not forgive his son for departing from the path he had been taught. The boy had friends the father did not approve of, and he did many things contrary to what his father thought he should do. This caused a rift between father and son, and as soon as the boy could, he left home and never returned. They rarely spoke again.

Did the father feel justified? Perhaps.

Did the son feel justified? Perhaps.

All I know is that this family was divided and unhappy because neither father nor son could forgive each other. They could not look past the bitter memories they had about each other. They filled their hearts with anger instead of love and forgiveness. Each robbed himself of the opportunity to influence the other’s life for good. The divide between them appeared so deep and so wide that each became a spiritual prisoner on his own emotional island.

Fortunately, our loving and wise Eternal Father in Heaven has provided the means to overcome this prideful gap. The great and infinite Atonement is the supreme act of forgiveness and reconciliation. Its magnitude is beyond my understanding, but I testify with all my heart and soul of its reality and ultimate power. The Savior offered Himself as ransom for our sins. Through Him we gain forgiveness.

No Family Is Perfect

None of us is without sin. Every one of us makes mistakes, including you and me. We have all been wounded. We all have wounded others.

It is through our Savior’s sacrifice that we can gain exaltation and eternal life. As we accept His ways and overcome our pride by softening our hearts, we can bring reconciliation and forgiveness into our families and our personal lives. God will help us to be more forgiving, to be more willing to walk the second mile, to be first to apologize even if something wasn’t our fault, to lay aside old grudges and nurture them no more. Thanks be to God, who gave His Only Begotten Son, and to the Son, who gave His life for us.

We can feel God’s love for us every day. Shouldn’t we be able to give a little more of ourselves to our fellowmen as taught in the beloved hymn“Because I Have Been Given Much”?² The Lord has opened the door for us to be forgiven. Wouldn’t it be only right to put aside our own egotism and pride and begin to open that blessed door of forgiveness to those with whom we struggle—especially to all of our own family?

In the end, happiness does not spring from perfection but from applying divine principles, even in small steps. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have declared: “Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.”³

Forgiveness is positioned right in the middle of these simple truths, founded on our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. Because forgiveness connects principles, it connects people. It is a key, it opens locked doors, it is the beginning of an honest path, and it is one of our best hopes for a happy family.

May God help us to be a little more forgiving in our families, more forgiving of each other, and perhaps more forgiving even with ourselves. I pray that we may experience forgiveness as one wonderful way in which most happy families are alike.

Watch the following video:

The Prince’s Dog

There is an old Welsh story from the 13th century about a prince who returned home to find his dog with blood dripping down its face. The man rushed inside and, to his horror, saw that his baby boy was missing and his cradle overturned. In anger the prince pulled out his sword and killed his dog. Shortly thereafter, he heard the cry of his son—the babe was alive! By the infant’s side lay a dead wolf. The dog had, in reality, defended the prince’s baby from a murderous wolf.

Though this story is dramatic, it demonstrates a point. It opens the possibility that the story we tell ourselves about why others behave a certain way does not always agree with the facts—sometimes we don’t even want to know the facts. We would rather feel self-justified in our anger by holding onto our bitterness and resentment. Sometimes these grudges can last months or years. Sometimes they can last a lifetime.

A Family Divided

One father could not forgive his son for departing from the path he had been taught. The boy had friends the father did not approve of, and he did many things contrary to what his father thought he should do. This caused a rift between father and son, and as soon as the boy could, he left home and never returned. They rarely spoke again.

Did the father feel justified? Perhaps.

Did the son feel justified? Perhaps.

All I know is that this family was divided and unhappy because neither father nor son could forgive each other. They could not look past the bitter memories they had about each other. They filled their hearts with anger instead of love and forgiveness. Each robbed himself of the opportunity to influence the other’s life for good. The divide between them appeared so deep and so wide that each became a spiritual prisoner on his own emotional island.

Fortunately, our loving and wise Eternal Father in Heaven has provided the means to overcome this prideful gap. The great and infinite Atonement is the supreme act of forgiveness and reconciliation. Its magnitude is beyond my understanding, but I testify with all my heart and soul of its reality and ultimate power. The Savior offered Himself as ransom for our sins. Through Him we gain forgiveness.

Prayer and Peace

One evening I argued with my mom and felt pretty bad. So I decided I would pray. Although I was in a bad mood and didn’t want to be “spiritual,” I knew praying would help me feel happier and less argumentative. After my mom left the room, I started my prayer. “Dear Heavenly Father, I’ve come to Thee tonight because …” No. I opened my eyes and unfolded my arms; that sounded awkward. I tried again. “Heavenly Father, I need …” That also sounded strange. I felt Satan urging me to give up my prayer of asking Heavenly Father for help.

Suddenly I had a prompting to say thank you! So I did, and thoughts started spilling from my mind of all the many things I could thank my Father in Heaven for. When I was done thanking Him, I discussed the problem at hand.

Afterward I felt a wonderful peace inside me, the warm spiritual feeling that I know our Heavenly Father and my parents love me and that I am a child of God. I was able to apologize to my mother and accept her apology.

No Family Is Perfect

In the end, happiness does not spring from perfection but from applying divine principles, even in small steps. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have declared: “Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.”³

Forgiveness is positioned right in the middle of these simple truths, founded on our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. Because forgiveness connects principles, it connects people. It is a key, it opens locked doors, it is the beginning of an honest path, and it is one of our best hopes for a happy family.

May God help us to be a little more forgiving in our families, more forgiving of each other, and perhaps more forgiving even with ourselves. I pray that we may experience forgiveness as one wonderful way in which most happy families are alike.

Watch the following video:

1. Heat oven to 375F.  Grease and flour 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.  For the bars, in a large bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, butter, and eggs until creamy.  Blend in bananas and vanilla extract.  Add flour, baking soda, salt, and blend for 1 minute.  Stir in walnuts.

 Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich

16 Servings

Ingredients:

Activity

1- Secret service.
(Write each family members name on a small piece of paper. Place the pieces of paper in a bowl. Have each family member draw out a name. Each person will do secret acts of service for the person who’s name they drew. Be sure to keep it a secret. *Help other younger children in the family*)

2- Love Circle
(Place a chair in the center of the room. Have a family member sit in the chair. Then go around the room and everyone will say something nice about the person in the chair. Take turns so that every family member gets a turn in the chair.)

3- Play Do you love your neighbor.

Scripture

D&C 68:29

29 And the inhabitants of Zion shall also observe the Sabbath day to keep it holy.

Hymn

Remember The Sabbath Day – Primary Songbook #155 or On This Day of Joy and Gladness- Hymn #64

Remember The Sabbath Day

Remember the Sabbath day,
To always keep it holy.
The Lord blessed and hallowed it,
That we might worship him.

On This Day of Joy and Gladness

1. On this day of joy and gladness,
Lord, we praise thy holy name;
In this sacred place of worship,
We thy glories loud proclaim!

[Chorus]
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Bright and clear our voices ring,
Singing songs of exultation
To our Maker, Lord, and King!

2. Open wide the fount of Zion;
Let her richest blessings flow
To the Saints who nobly serve thee
In the gospel here below.

3. May we labor in the kingdom—
By the prophets long foretold—
Where the children of the promise
Shall be gathered in the fold.

Lesson

*For Younger Children*   Discuss ways we can keep the Sabbath day holy. Draw pictures, guess the activity, and determine if it is appropriate for Sunday. Testify of  the importance of keeping the Sabbath day holy.

Ask your family to suggest ways to observe the Sabbath day.

Help them understand that a balance of rest, worship, and service is necessary to keep the Sabbath day holy. To determine whether a specific activity is appropriate, ask, “Does it bring me closer to my Heavenly Father?”

In order to demonstrate and determine which activities are appropriate on Sunday, draw a picture of an activity on a white board or piece of paper. Family members will guess what the activity is. Then, together, determine whether this activity would be appropriate for the Sabbath.

You might include the following:

• Eat light meals
• Cook on Saturday
• Clean on Saturday
• Take a nap
• Write letters to loved ones and missionaries
• Visit family members
• Visit a sick friend
• Ponder the sacrament prayer more reverently
• Ponder the mighty power and works of God
• Read the scriptures

Ask your family to suggest ways to observe the Sabbath day.

Help them understand that a balance of rest, worship, and service is necessary to keep the Sabbath day holy. To determine whether a specific activity is appropriate, ask, “Does it bring me closer to my Heavenly Father?”

Read Doctrine and Covenants 59:12–13. Note the footnote on the word oblations in verse 12; oblations means “offerings, whether of time, talents, or means, in service of God and fellowman.”

Read the following quotation by President Spencer W. Kimball:

“The Sabbath is a holy day in which to do worthy and holy things. Abstinence from work and recreation is important, but insufficient. The Sabbath calls for constructive thoughts and acts, and if one merely lounges about doing nothing on the Sabbath, he is breaking it. To observe it, one will be on his knees in prayer, preparing lessons, studying the gospel, meditating, visiting the ill and distressed, writing letters to missionaries, taking a nap, reading wholesome material, and attending all the meetings of that day at which he is expected.” (“The Sabbath—A Delight,” Ensign, Jan. 1978, p. 4.)

List the three aspects of keeping the Sabbath day holy defined in these passages:

1. Rest from labors

2. Offerings of service

3. Worship

Considering the activities family members mentioned earlier as being appropriate for the Sabbath, have them list those and other Sabbath activities under each category—rest, service, and worship. You might include the following:

• Eat light meals
• Cook on Saturday
• Clean on Saturday
• Take a nap
• Write letters to loved ones and missionaries
• Visit family members
• Visit a sick friend
• Ponder the sacrament prayer more reverently
• Ponder the mighty power and works of God
• Read the scriptures

Try in every way to feel closer to Heavenly Father

Discuss how a wise Heavenly Father showed his love for us by giving us a day we could devote to rest, service, and worship.

Invite each family member to choose one activity from each category to concentrate on during the next Sabbath.

Testify of the importance of keeping the Sabbath Day holy.

Treat

Ice Cream Crunch Bars or Homemade Soft Pretzels

Ice Cream Crunch Bars

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups Rice Krispie Cereal
1 cups chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
3/4 cups brown sugar
optional: a few shakes of cinnamon
8 tablespoons real butter (1 stick), melted
1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream (or one ‘carton’ since they keep shrinking), softened to the consistency of soft serve

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.  Line a 9×13 inch pan with foil, extending a little over the edges of pan.

Place Rice Krispies, pecans, coconut, and brown sugar in a 9×13 inch pan.  Drizzle butter over mixture and combine well (a fork, or clean hands work well.)  If desired, sprinkle in a few shakes of ground cinnamon and mix in.  Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring once or twice during cooking time.  Remove from oven when toasted and golden brown and let mixture cool completely.

Remove half of crispy mixture and spread remaining half in an even layer on the bottom of pan.  Gently spoon softened ice cream on top of mixture.  Use a spoon and very gently spread mixture, being careful to not lift up crisp from bottom of pan.  Spread ice cream out evenly and then top with remaining crisp mixture.  Gently press top crisp into ice cream with hands.  Cover pan with plastic or foil and chill until firm (preferably overnight.)  When ready to serve, use foil to completely remove ice cream from pan.  Slice into squares and serve.

Homemade Soft Pretzels

Ingredients: 

1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115 degrees F)
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 package active dry yeast (I used rapid rise yeast)
22 oz all-purpose flour, about 4 1/2 cups
2 ounces unsalted butter, melted
Vegetable oil for pan
10 cups water
2/3 cup baking soda
1 large egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water
optional: additional melted butter and cinnamon-sugar
optional: powdered sugar, milk, melted butter for dipping

Instructions:

Combine the water, sugar and kosher salt in the bowl of a stand mixer and sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow to sit for 5 minutes or until the mixture begins to foam. Add the flour (tip: don’t add all the flour at once, just in case you don’t need it all.  Reserve a small amount and add as needed for a soft dough) and butter and, using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until well combined. Change to medium speed and knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the side of the bowl, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the dough from the bowl, scrape the bowl clean and then oil it well with vegetable oil. Return the dough to the bowl, cover with plastic wrap and sit in a warm place for approximately 50 to 55 minutes or until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line 2 half-sheet pans with parchment paper and lightly brush with the vegetable oil. Set aside.

Bring the 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil in an 8-quart saucepan or roasting pan.

In the meantime, turn the dough out onto a slightly oiled work surface and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll out each piece of dough into a 24-inch rope. Make a U-shape with the rope, holding the ends of the rope, cross them over each other and press onto the bottom of the U in order to form the shape of a pretzel. Place onto the parchment-lined half sheet pan.

Place the pretzels into the boiling water, 1 by 1, for 30 seconds. If you’re making pretzel “bites” put in as many as will fit without crowding.  Remove them from the water using a large flat spatula (a metal spider works great). Return to the half sheet pan, brush the top of each pretzel with the beaten egg yolk and water mixture and sprinkle with pretzel salt or kosher salt. Bake until dark golden brown in color, approximately 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Cinnamon Sugar Version: Prepare as directed but don’t sprinkle with salt before baking.  Immediately after removing pretzels from oven, brush with melted butter and toss in a bowl of cinnamon-sugar.

(Recipes taken from www.OurBestBites.com)

Scripture

Enos 1:1

1 – Behold, it came to pass that I, Enos, knowing my father that he was a just man—for he taught me in his language, and also in the nurture and admonition of the Lord—and blessed be the name of my God for it—

Hymn

Fathers – Primary Songbook #209 or O My Father- Hymn #292

Fathers

1. The father of our home leads our family
With wisdom’s light in all that’s right;
My father’s good to me.

Fathers are so special with a very special love.
They watch us and protect us.
They guide us and direct us
Back to our home above.

2. The father of our ward tends with loving care
Each member’s needs with kindly deeds;
Our bishop’s always there.

3. And now we’ll sing great praise and rev’rently recall
The Holy One who gave his Son,
The Father of us all.

O My Father

1. O my Father, thou that dwellest
In the high and glorious place,
When shall I regain thy presence
And again behold thy face?
In thy holy habitation,
Did my spirit once reside?
In my first primeval childhood
Was I nurtured near thy side?

2. For a wise and glorious purpose
Thou hast placed me here on earth
And withheld the recollection
Of my former friends and birth;
Yet ofttimes a secret something
Whispered, “You’re a stranger here,”
And I felt that I had wandered
From a more exalted sphere.

3. I had learned to call thee Father,
Thru thy Spirit from on high,
But, until the key of knowledge
Was restored, I knew not why.
In the heav’ns are parents single?
No, the thought makes reason stare!
Truth is reason; truth eternal
Tells me I’ve a mother there.

4. When I leave this frail existence,
When I lay this mortal by,
Father, Mother, may I meet you
In your royal courts on high?
Then, at length, when I’ve completed
All you sent me forth to do,
With your mutual approbation
Let me come and dwell with you.

Lesson

*For Younger Children*  Read “Father’s Day Detective”. Make a list or draw things you love about your Dad. Testify of the divine role of Fathers.

Read “Father’s Day Detective”

Father’s Day was coming and I didn’t have a clue what to give my dad. What could he need that he didn’t already have? I decided I had to become a detective to find out.

When Dad came home from work, I was ready. I had a small notebook and pencil to write down clues. I listened carefully and watched closely everything that happened.

First, my dad walked in the door and said, “I’m home.” My mom said, “Welcome home, dear,” and gave him a kiss. Then Dad put his briefcase down by the bookcase. He took some coins and keys from his pockets, and put them on a shelf. Then he took off his coat and tie and hung them in his closet. He rolled up his sleeves and washed up for dinner.

After dinner, Dad cleared the table and washed the dishes. Then he read the newspaper and listened to music. After family prayer I went to bed, still clueless about what my dad needed.

The next morning I decided to try again. I got out my notebook and watched. It wasn’t long before I finally had the clue I’d been looking for.

First, Dad came into the kitchen tying his tie. He said, “Good morning, everyone,” and took a sip of orange juice. “I’ve got to hurry today,” he said. He was putting the coins back in his pocket when he stopped and looked around.

“Have you seen my keys?” he asked me.

I jumped up and found them on the floor near the bookcase.

“Thanks, sweetheart,” he said, kissing my cheek. “Lucky for me you have such sharp eyes.”

He waved good-bye, and I returned his wave with a big grin. I was happy because now I knew exactly what to make my dad for Father’s Day.

I asked my mom for a clean, empty tin can with the top removed. She made sure there were no sharp edges. I covered the outside of the can with gold paper. From some old magazines I cut out pictures of things that had to do with money and keys—a piggy bank, a treasure chest, a door lock, and a sports car. I glued the pictures onto the gold paper. My mom then sprayed the can with a clear sealant. While I waited for the can to dry so I could wrap it, I made a card for my dad with a drawing of a detective on it.

On Father’s Day, when Dad opened my gift, he looked confused. “This is a very pretty tin can,” he said.

“It’s for your extra coins,” I pointed out. “And so you don’t lose your keys anymore.”

Dad’s eyes lit up and he smiled broadly. Right then and there he got up and put the can on the bookshelf. “Perfect,” he said as he dropped his coins and keys in with a clatter. “How did you know this was exactly what I needed?”

I just smiled.

My dad used that tin can every day after that. Whenever I heard the familiar clatter of coins and keys, I felt happy inside. That sound meant my dad was home. And I felt a surge of love for him, knowing that I had been able to give him something he really needed. All I had to do was open my eyes and look for the clues.

Make a list or draw things you love about your Dad. 

Testify of the divine role of Fathers.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read the excerpt from Elder Ballard’s Priesthood Session Address, October 2009.  Watch “A Father Indeed”. Discuss and express gratitude for your father. Acknowledge the fact that we all have a Heavenly Father who loves us. Testify of the divine role of Fathers.

Read the following excerpt from Elder Ballard’s October 2009 Conference Address in the Priesthood Session. Although his words were addressed to the Aaronic Priesthood, his advice is applicable to all of us as we honor our father’s.

“Tonight I want to give you . . . three simple suggestions on how to take full advantage of your relationship with your dad. . . I believe that by doing these three simple things you can make your relationship with your father even better than it is right now.”

“First, trust your father. He is not perfect, but he loves you and would never do anything he didn’t think was in your best interest. So talk to him. Share your thoughts and feelings, your dreams and your fears. The more he knows about your life, the better chance he has to understand your concerns and to give you good counsel. When you put your trust in your dad, he will feel the responsibility of that trust and try harder than ever to understand and to help. As your father, he is entitled to inspiration on your behalf. His advice to you will be the heartfelt expressions of someone who knows and loves you. Your dad wants more than anything for you to be happy and successful, so why would you not want to trust someone like that? Boys, trust your dad.”

“Second, take an interest in your father’s life. Ask about his job, his interests, his goals. How did he decide to do the work that he does? What was he like when he was your age? How did he meet your mother? And as you learn more about him, you may find that his experiences help you to better understand why he responds the way that he does. Watch your dad. Watch how he treats your mother. Watch how he performs his Church callings. Watch how he interacts with other people. You will be surprised what you learn about him just by watching him and listening to him. Think about what you don’t know about him and find out. Your love, admiration, and understanding will increase by what you learn. Boys, be interested in your dad’s life.”

“And third, ask your father for advice. Let’s be honest: he is probably going to give you his advice whether you ask for it or not, but it just works so much better when you ask! Ask for his advice on Church activity, on classes, on friends, on school, on dating, on sports or other hobbies. Ask for his counsel on your Church assignments, on preparing for your mission, on decisions or choices you have to make. Nothing shows respect for another person as much as asking for his advice, because what you are really saying when you ask for advice is, “I appreciate what you know and the experiences you have had, and I value your ideas and suggestions.” Those are nice things for a father to hear from his son.”

Watch “A Father Indeed”

Discuss and express gratitude for your father. Acknowledge the fact that we all have a Heavenly Father who loves us. 

Testify of the divine role of Fathers.

Treat

Oatmeal Brownie Strawberry Shortcakes or Fruit Salsa with Baked Cinnamon Chips

Oatmeal Brownie Strawberry Shortcakes

Ingredients:

1(18.3 oz) Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie Mix
1 cup rolled oats
2 1/4 cups whipping cream, divided
1 large egg
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate chunks (I use chunks)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
3 pints (6 cups) fresh strawberries, diced and macerated in a little granulated sugar

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F

In a bowl, combine the brownie mix, oats, 3/4 cup of cream and egg in large bowl and mix well. Mix in chocolate chips or chunks.

Drop large tablespoonfuls of brownie mixture on to greased cookie sheets. Yields approximately 16 cookies.

Bake for 10 to 12minutes or until set. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheets to cool completely.

Whip the remaining 1 1/2 cups whipping cream and powdered sugar in medium bowl; beat on high until stiff peaks form.

To make the shortcakes, place 1 brownie cookie on each individual dessert plate or shallow bowl. Top each with strawberries, whipped cream and another cookie. Top each stack with dollop of whipped cream and a little strawberries.

 Fruit Salsa with Baked Cinnamon Chips

Ingredients: 

1 kiwi, peeled and diced
1 Golden Delicious apples – peeled, cored and diced
4 oz. raspberries
8 oz. of strawberries, diced
1 Tablespoons white sugar
1/2 Tablespoon brown sugar
1 1/2 Tablespoons fruit preserves, any flavor (I used my strawberry freezer jam)
10 small flour tortillas (the fajita size that’s about 7 inches)
4 Tablespoons melted butter (or butter flavored cooking spray)
2 cups cinnamon sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes.

2.Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

3.Coat one side of each flour tortilla with melted butter (or butter flavored cooking spray). Sprinkle tortillas with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Using a pizza cutter, cut each tortilla in half and then cut each half into 4 wedges. Arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. (if using cooking spray, spray tortillas again with cooking spray).

4.Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes. Serve with chilled fruit mixture. Best when made and eaten the same day otherwise the fruit gives off so too much juice and it gets runny. Serves around 5-6.

(Recipes taken from www.RealMomKitchen.com)

Scripture

Alma 56:47-48

47 – Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.

48 – And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it.

Hymn

Dearest Mother, I Love You – Primary Songbook #206 or Home Can Be a Heaven On Earth – Hymn #298

Dearest Mother, I Love You

Gentle words I hear you say.
Your kind hands help me each day.
You’re my mother kind and true;
Dearest mother, I love you.

Home Can Be a Heaven On Earth

1. Home can be a heav’n on earth
When we are filled with love,
Bringing happiness and joy,
Rich blessings from above—
Warmth and kindness, charity,
Safety and security—
Making home a part of heaven,
Where we want to be.

2. Drawing fam’ly near each week,
We’ll keep love burning bright.
Serving Him with cheerful hearts,
We’ll grow in truth and light.
Parents teach and lead the way,
Children honor and obey,
Reaching for our home in heaven,
Where we want to stay.

3. Praying daily in our home,
We’ll feel His love divine;
Searching scriptures faithfully,
We’ll nourish heart and mind.
Singing hymns of thanks, we’ll say,
“Father, help us find the way
Leading to our home in heaven,
Where we long to stay.”

The Most Important Job

I’m thankful for my mother’s hands, which help me every day.
With her hands she shows me how to work and how to play.
It seems that when I need some help, her hands are always there
To tie my shoes, or make my lunch, or comb my messy hair.
Her hands know how to fix my bike and how to make my bed,
And how to find a scripture verse to ease my worried head.

I want my hands, like Mother’s, to serve others every day.
I want my hands to know, like hers, how to work and play.
I know that when she needs some help, my hands can help her too.
Because she’s taught me well, they know exactly what to do.
I’ll thank my mother for her hands and hug her really tight
And promise her to use my hands to always do what’s right.

Make a list of things that each family member has learned from their mother. Discuss how we can take those things learned and use them to serve others.

Testify of the sacred role that mothers have.

(Recipes taken from www.KraftRecipes.com)

Scripture

2 Chronicles 15:7

7- Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.

Hymn

When We’re Helping - Children’s Songbook 198 or Have I Done Any Good - Hymn 223

When We’re Helping

1. When we’re helping, we’re happy,
And we sing as we go;
And we like to help mother,
For we all love her so.

2. Tra la la la la la la,
Tra la la la la la,
Tra la la la la la la,
Tra la la la la la.

Have I Done Any Good

1. Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone’s burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?

[Chorus]
Then wake up and do something more
Than dream of your mansion above.
Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,
A blessing of duty and love.

2. There are chances for work all around just now,
Opportunities right in our way.
Do not let them pass by, saying, “Sometime I’ll try,”
But go and do something today.
’Tis noble of man to work and to give;
Love’s labor has merit alone.
Only he who does something helps others to live.
To God each good work will be known.

Lesson

*For Younger Children*  Discuss ways to make work fun. Tell the story of President Kimball when he was a boy. Testify of the principle of work.

Make a poster of the following quotation, and place it in a prominent place following the lesson:

• “Let us realize that the privilege to work is a gift, that power to work is a blessing, and that love of work is success” - David O. McKay

Ask family members to tell some of the jobs they enjoy most, some they enjoy least, and why. Discuss ways tasks can be done easier, faster, and more enjoyably. Discuss specific ways family members can help and encourage each other in the tasks they have to do.

To start them thinking,  tell them of President Spencer W. Kimball, who sang, counted, and memorized the Articles of Faith while milking cows 

When President Spencer W. Kimball was nine years old, his job on the family farm was milking from two to nine cows every day. Milking cows can become boring, so he thought of things to do while he milked that were interesting and good and fun. He practiced squirting a stream of milk into the mouths of the cats that gathered around at milking time. He memorized every word of the Articles of Faith and the Ten Commandments to the beat of milk squirts hitting the pail. He copied most of the songs in the hymnbook on sheets of paper and memorized them. On a one-legged stool, his head pressed against a cow’s side, he sang them to the cows. (Friend, October 1993)

• How did President Kimball make work fun and more worthwhile?
• Did he have a good attitude about work?

Testify of the principle of work.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Read or summarize “Work is an Eternal Principle”. Learn about President Uchtdorf’s experience with work in his family. Testify of the sacred power of the Priesthood. 

Read or summarize “Work is an Eternal Principle” (What We Believe, Ensign 2011). As a family, discuss the article.

Work Is an Eternal Principle

Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ worked to create the heavens and the earth. They created the sun, the moon, and the stars. They gathered the seas and caused the dry land to appear and the plants to grow. Then They created every living thing in the sea and on the land. (See Genesis 1;Moses 2.) Their example shows us that work is important in heaven and on earth. (See also John 5:17; 9:4.)

When God created man and woman in His own image, He placed them in the Garden of Eden (see Genesis 1:26–27; 2:8). Later, when they were cast out of the garden, the Lord said to Adam, “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread” (Genesis 3:19). From that time on, Adam and Eve worked to provide for their own needs and the needs of their children (see Moses 5:1).

Since the time of Adam and Eve, work has been a way of life for all of us on earth. We work to provide for the physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being of ourselves and our families. Parents strive to establish homes where principles of work are taught. Giving children workassignments that fit their abilities and praising their successes help them have positive work experiences. As a result, they can develop a strongwork ethic, a good attitude, and basic skills.

We should also seek to find the proper balance between work and rest. Six days a week, blessings can come to us as we remember to mix work with activities that refresh us. On Sundays, however, the Lord promises us special blessings as we obey His commandment to refrain from our temporal work and keep the Sabbath day holy (see Exodus 20:9–11; D&C 59:9–19).

Work is a part of our Heavenly Father’s plan for us in heaven and on earth. If we are righteous, we will return to live with Him. There we will continue to have opportunities to work as we help build the kingdom of God (seeMoses 1:39).

Treat

Clover Crispies or “Lucky You” Mint Pie

Clover Crispies

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons butter
4 cups large marshmallows (about 40)
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
6 cups crisp rice cereal
6 ounces white candy coating, coarsely chopped
4 drops green food coloring, optional
Green sprinkles

Instructions:

Ingredients:

(Recipes taken from tasteofhome.com)

Activity

1- Family Project – Together as a family work on a family project of your choice. This can be yard work, housework, or whatever you want! Remember to have fun as you’re working.

2- Board Game – Play your family’s favorite board game!

Scripture

Abraham 1:18

18 Behold, I will lead thee by my hand, and I will take thee, to put upon thee my name, even the Priesthood of thy father, and my power shall be over thee.

Hymn

Stand for the Right- Children’s Songbook 159 or Hark, All Ye Nations Hymn – 264

Stand for the Right

Our prophet has some words for you,
And these are the words:
“Be true, be true.”
At work or at play,
In darkness or light,
Be true, be true,
And stand for the right.

Hark, All Ye Nations 

1. Hark, all ye nations!
Hear heaven’s voice
Thru ev’ry land that all may rejoice!
Angels of glory shout the refrain:
Truth is restored again!

[Chorus]
Oh, how glorious from the throne above
Shines the gospel light of truth and love!
Bright as the sun, this heavenly ray
Lights ev’ry land today.

2. Searching in darkness, nations have wept;
Watching for dawn, their vigil they’ve kept.
All now rejoice; the long night is o’er.
Truth is on earth once more!

3. Chosen by God to serve him below,
To ev’ry land and people we’ll go,
Standing for truth with fervent accord,
Teaching his holy word.

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Tell the story “Abraham Received the Priesthood”. Talk about how the Priesthood blesses your family. Tell the story “Tommy’s First Day at School.” Testify of the sacred power of the Priesthood.

Tell the picture story, “Abraham Received the Priesthood”.

Explain how your family has been blessed by the priesthood. Tell the children about the day they were blessed and given a name by a priesthood holder as suggested in the regular lesson. With younger children, this part of the lesson could be expanded so that you take time telling each child about his birth and your special love for him. Describe other priesthood blessings you may have had, such as a father’s blessing or a blessing during illness. Help the children realize that having the priesthood to bless them is like having Heavenly Father close by us all the time.

Tell the story “Tommy’s First Day at School” and discuss it.

Tommy was getting ready to go to school for the first time. He had been excited about beginning school, but now that the first day had finally come, he was frightened.

Tommy was quiet all morning. His mother had made his favorite breakfast, but Tommy did not smile when he saw it. He picked up the spoon and tried to eat, but could not.

His mother asked, “Do you feel sick, Tommy?”

Tommy answered, “I think so. At least I don’t feel like going to school.”

Tommy’s mother felt his head to see if he had a fever. She looked in his throat, but it was not red. She said, “I can’t see anything wrong, Tommy. Show me where it is that you don’t feel well.”

Tommy said, “I just feel funny inside.”

Tommy’s father looked at him and said, “I think I know what might be wrong with you, Tommy. This is your first day of school. Maybe you feel funny inside because you will be away from home all day and you don’t know what to expect. Are you a little frightened? I know that feeling, too, Tommy. I had the same feeling when I started my new job last week.

“I can do something to help you if you would like. I can give you a special blessing before you go to school today. This blessing can help take away that frightened, funny feeling you have inside.”

“I’d like that, dad,” said Tommy.

Tommy’s father placed his hands on Tommy’s head and gave him a special blessing.

That afternoon Tommy came bounding in the door calling, “Mom, mom, I’m home.”

“How did you like school, Tommy?” asked his mother.

“Well, it was better than I thought it would be. My teacher is nice,” said Tommy.

“Dad said you would feel better after he gave you a special blessing, didn’t he? I’m glad your father knew just what to do to help you.”

Sharing these experiences should remind each family member what a great blessing the priesthood can be. The Lord has given us the priesthood because we are his children and he loves us. It is our Heavenly Father’s way of blessing his children, and he wants us to receive every blessing we are worthy to have.

Let the children make a poster that says, “The Priesthood Blesses Our Family.” Let each family member sign or print his name around the edges of the poster. Then write by each name the priesthood blessings that person has received.

Put up the poster somewhere so that your family will see it each day at dinner time. Discuss the different blessings during dinner each day.

Testify of the sacred power of the priesthood.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read  from the scriptures and discuss how Abraham received the priesthood. Watch the video “Sanctify Yourselves” and discuss the importance of being prepared to give and receive priesthood blessings. Testify of the sacred power of the Priesthood. 

Turn to Facsimile No. 1 in the book of Abraham, and discuss what you see. Then read the explanation printed below it.

• How did Abraham get into this perilous situation?

Read Abraham 1:5–7.

•  How was he rescued?

Discuss the importance of being prepared to give and receive priesthood blessings

Testify of the sacred power of the priesthood.

Treat

Caramel Apple Cupcakes or Oreo Truffles

Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Ingredients: 

1 (18.25-ounce) package spice cake mix
2 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup peeled, cored, and chopped Granny Smith apple (about 1 large apple)
35 caramels
1/4 cup evaporated milk or heavy cream (or regular milk)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
24 wooden craft sticks

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine cake mix, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vegetable oil until incorporated (about 30 seconds). Scrape sides of bowl and then beat on med-high speed for 3 minutes. Stir in chopped apple.

2. Spoon batter into paper-lined muffin pans, filling two-thirds full. Bake 18-20 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Do not overbake. Remove to a wire rack to cool.

3. Meanwhile, combine caramels and milk in a medium saucepan over very low heat; stir 4 minutes or until smooth. It’s very important to keep the heat very low because if the caramel gets too hot it will become really hard when cooled.

4. Spread caramel mixture over cupcakes being careful to not touch the caramel to the paper liners or it will stick to the liners; immediately sprinkle with pecans, pressing in slightly. Insert a wooden stick into center of each cupcake. Store covered in an airtight container. It’s best to serve the cupcakes the same day that you add the caramel topping. Caramel will soften if kept at room temperature for too long so store in the refrigerator until ready to serve then let come to room temperature to let caramel soften up a bit.

Makes 20-24 cupcakes.

Oreo Truffles

Ingredients: 

1 package (18 oz.) Oreo cookies (or Nutter Butters or Grasshopper cookies), crushed into small pieces
1 8-oz. package cream cheese, softened
White or Chocolate melts for dipping

Instructions:

Mix crushed Oreos and cream cheese until well-combined. Either use a food processor or a ziplock and blend with your hands (a lot harder but all I had). Roll into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheet or tray. Refrigerate until firm, 3-4 hours (or stick in the freezer for about an hour). Using 2 forks (or a spoon, but forks always work better for me), dip Oreo balls into chocolate coating and place onto waxed paper to harden. Chill and serve cold or room temperature. Makes about 30 truffles.

(Recipes taken from the-girl-who-ate-everything.com)

Scripture

John 13:34

34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

Hymn

Love one Another Children’s Songbook 136 or Love at Home Hymn 294

Love one Another

As I have loved you,
Love one another.
This new commandment:
Love one another.
By this shall men know
Ye are my disciples,
If ye have love
One to another.

Love at Home

1. There is beauty all around
When there’s love at home;
There is joy in ev’ry sound
When there’s love at home.
Peace and plenty here abide,
Smiling sweet on ev’ry side.
Time doth softly, sweetly glide
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Time doth softly, sweetly glide
When there’s love at home.

2. In the cottage there is joy
When there’s love at home;
Hate and envy ne’er annoy
When there’s love at home.
Roses bloom beneath our feet;
All the earth’s a garden sweet,
Making life a bliss complete
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Making life a bliss complete
When there’s love at home.

3. Kindly heaven smiles above
When there’s love at home;
All the world is filled with love
When there’s love at home.
Sweeter sings the brooklet by;
Brighter beams the azure sky.
Oh, there’s One who smiles on high
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Oh, there’s One who smiles on high
When there’s love at home.

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Have a discussion about what you would do and how it would feel if Jesus came to visit your home. Brainstorm different ways we can show show love for each other. Testify that our service to others is a great gift for our Savior.

Tell the children that you are going to pretend that a special visitor is coming to your house. His name is Jesus. Ask them to think how excited they would feel to have Jesus come to visit them.

• What should we do to get ready? (Clean the house. Dress in nice clothes, etc.)
• How will we act when Jesus comes?

The children could act out the things they would do.
Explain to the children that if Jesus were here they would have a good feeling. They would know he loves them.

Tell the children that if Jesus were in your home they would want to try very hard to be good and to show their love for one another.

Explain that each day they can have that good feeling in their home by sharing, by not fighting, and by being kind to one another.

Brainstorm more ideas of different ways we can show show love for each other. If you would like, make a list of these ideas.

Testify that as we show love for each other at home, we will feel the Saviors love.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read from the scriptures to learn about loving one another. Brainstorm ways we can overcome negative feelings and show love. Testify of the importance of showing love for one another.

Have your family look up and read the following scriptures:

“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God” (1 John 4:7).

“Charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him. Wherefore … pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love.” (Moroni 7:47–48.)
Explain to your family that they can turn to Heavenly Father when they need help learning to love one another. If they will pray with all their heart, they will be filled with his love and their ability to love others will grow.

Remind your family that Jesus’ love is unconditional. That means he loves us no matter what we do and say. Explain to your family that if they are to truly love one another as Jesus commanded them, they need to love each other in this same way. Have a family member read John 13:34.

• How would we act if we loved each other the way Jesus loves us?

Discuss with your family things they could do to overcome bad feelings or to help the feeling of love grow in your home. Read the examples below, and add those of your own:

• 1. Sincerely pray for help to get rid of angry, impatient, or hurt feelings.
• 2. Look through family photo albums, and talk about the things that the children did when they were little or that the family experienced together. Husbands and wives could look through wedding pictures or honeymoon photos.
• 3. Challenge family members to show nothing but love for a week no matter how any other member of the family acts.

Have your family list three of their favorite scriptures about love. Let each person read one or explain it. Have each family member tell what his favorite scripture means to him personally even if that scripture was discussed by another family member. Observe the good things members of the family do throughout the week in your home, and let them know that you appreciate and love them.

Testify of the importance of showing love for one another.

Treat

Valentine Crispy Cutouts or Strawberry Heart Pillows

Valentine Crispy Cutouts

Ingredients:

Instructions:

MELT butter in large saucepan on low heat. Add marshmallows; cook until marshmallows are completely melted and mixture is well blended, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add food coloring; mix well.

ADD cereal; mix well. Press onto bottom of 15x10x1-inch pan sprayed with cooking spray. Cool completely.

CUT into heart shapes with greased 4-inch cookie cutter. Decorate with icings as desired.

Strawberry Heart Pillows

Ingredients:

Instructions:

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Unfold pastry. Cut into 16 hearts with 2-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter. Place on ungreased baking sheets.

BAKE 20 min. or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

CUT each heart horizontally in half. Spread 1 tsp. of the jam onto bottom half of each heart; top with 1 Tbsp. of the whipped topping and a strawberry slice. Cover with tops of hearts. Drizzle with chocolate. Serve immediately. Or, cover and refrigerate up to 1 hour.

(Recipes taken from KraftRecipes.com)

Scripture

Malachi 2:10

10 – Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers?

Hymn

I Am a Child of God Primary Song #2 or Dearest Children, God is Near You Hymn #96

I Am a Child of God

1. I am a child of God,
And he has sent me here,
Has given me an earthly home
With parents kind and dear.
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do
To live with him someday.

2. I am a child of God,
And so my needs are great;
Help me to understand his words
Before it grows to late.
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do
To live with him someday.

3. I am a child of God.
Rich blessings are in store;
If I but learn to do his will
I’ll live with hime once more.
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do
To live with him someday.

4. I am a child of God.
His promises are sure;
Celestial glory shall be mine
If I can but endure.
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do
To live with him someday.

Dearest Children, God is Near You

1. Dearest children, God is near you,
Watching o’er you day and night,
And delights to own and bless you,
If you strive to do what’s right.
He will bless you, He will bless you,
If you put your trust in him.

2. Dearest children, holy angels
Watch your actions night and day,
And they keep a faithful record
Of the good and bad you say.
Cherish virtue! Cherish virtue!
God will bless the pure in heart.

3. Children, God delights to teach you
By his Holy Spirit’s voice.
Quickly heed its holy promptings.
Day by day you’ll then rejoice.
Oh, prove faithful, Oh, prove faithful
To your God and Zion’s cause.

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Use the following object lesson to teach your children about the love Heavenly Father has for them. Testify of the importance of knowing that we are all children of our Heavenly Father.

If possible, display a picture of each family member as a baby. Let the children try to find their own pictures and identify the others. Tell them about the circumstances surrounding their birth. You may wish to describe your feelings as a parent as you prepared for their coming to your home. Describe how you felt when you saw, held, and loved them for the first time. Then ask them to imagine how Heavenly Father must feel to see them growing and learning.

Share how a knowledge that you are a child of God has helped you to choose the right. A specific example of a righteous choice they would understand would be helpful. You could recall how you were tempted to be unkind and then remembered that you were a child of God and so did a kind thing instead. Use some example from your recent experience so that the child will see the point clearly.

Sing “I Am a Child of God” with your children. Then tell them what the words mean to you.

At bedtime, during different nights of the week, spend some time with each child to share with him your knowledge of his worth to you and to God. Give examples of how Heavenly Father and you have confidence in his ability to succeed in life.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read all or part of “You Are a Child of God” (Ensign, Oct. 1998). Testify of the importance of knowing you are a child of God.

Recently I observed young men who attracted attention to themselves because of their extreme styles of dress and grooming. One made a revealing remark when he said, “I’m trying to find out who I really am.” This occurred after I had come from a Church meeting where Primary children had sung “I Am a Child of God” (Hymns, no. 301). Such contrasting experiences emphasize the importance of knowing that we are literally children of God.

We are dual beings. Each soul is comprised of body and spirit (see D&C 88:15), both of which emanate from God. A firm understanding of body and spirit will shape our thoughts and deeds for good.

The Body

Treat

No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars or Stove Top Kettle Corn

No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients:

1 1/2 C graham cracker crumbs
1 lb (3 1/2 C) powdered sugar
1 1/2 C creamy peanut butter
1 C (2 sticks) real butter, melted
1 12oz bag chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark, you pick!)
2 tsp shortening

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar and peanut butter and butter and beat until combined.  Press into a parchment (or waxed paper or foil) lined 9×13 pan.

Place chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave safe bowl and heat in 30 second intervals, stirring after each one, until melted and smooth.  Pour chocolate over peanut butter mixture and spread out evenly.  Place pan in the fridge just until chocolate is set and then cut into bars.  Tip:  If the bars chill until the chocolate is too hard to easily cut, use a sharp knife and score the cuts first, then gently cut through.  Can be stored in the fridge or at room temp.  They will stay firmer if stored in the fridge!

Stove Top Kettle Corn

Ingredients:

3 T canola or vegetable oil
1/3 C popcorn kernels

3 T granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Place a large stock pot on the stove top. Set heat to medium-high. Add oil. While your oil is heating (it won’t take long), measure out your popcorn into a

small bowl. Add sugar to the kernels. When it’s time to cook, everything moves very quickly, so it’s important to have it all ready to go.

Wait until you see your oil smoke. This is one little trick that a lot of people overlook, but it’s important. The smoke is very faint, but if you just stare at the pot (it helps to get down parallel to it), you’ll see little billows of smoke coming up. That’s your cue! Pour popcorn kernels and sugar into the pot.

Immediately stir using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, scraping sugar from bottom of pan. This step should only take about 10 seconds.  Cover pot with lid. You will need to shake the pot with your hands and you’ll want to make sure the lid stays on, so I get a dish towel and drape it over the top.
After a few minutes you should start hearing the pops. (If it doesn’t start popping after a few minutes, crack the lid to let some of the pressure out. Chances are when you put the lid back on, it will pop away). Continue the shaking every 20 second or so until you can tell almost everything is popped. Remove the lid and stir immediately.Hold the pot by the handles in a way that you’re securing the lid on as well. Shake the pan side to side in all directions and up and down a few times. Do this every 20 seconds or so. It will keep the sugar from burning on the bottom and help the kernels to be evenly coated.

Sprinkle Kosher salt to taste and then keep stirring. You can eat it warm right out of the pan (Disclaimer #2: caramelized sugar it HOT so don’t eat it right away.) or let it cool completely. It’s great either way!

(Recipes taken from ourbestbites.com)

Scripture

1 John 4:7

7- Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

Hymn

Love One Another- Primary Song 136 or Love at Home Hymn294

Love One Another

As I have loved you,
Love one another.
This new commandment:
Love one another.
By this shall men know
Ye are my disciples,
If ye have love
One to another.

Love at Home

1. There is beauty all around
When there’s love at home;
There is joy in ev’ry sound
When there’s love at home.
Peace and plenty here abide,
Smiling sweet on ev’ry side.
Time doth softly, sweetly glide
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Time doth softly, sweetly glide
When there’s love at home.

2. In the cottage there is joy
When there’s love at home;
Hate and envy ne’er annoy
When there’s love at home.
Roses bloom beneath our feet;
All the earth’s a garden sweet,
Making life a bliss complete
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Making life a bliss complete
When there’s love at home.

3. Kindly heaven smiles above
When there’s love at home;
All the world is filled with love
When there’s love at home.
Sweeter sings the brooklet by;
Brighter beams the azure sky.
Oh, there’s One who smiles on high
When there’s love at home.
Love at home, love at home;
Oh, there’s One who smiles on high
When there’s love at home.

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Share the story: The Trouble with Chloe (taken from the Friend, Oct 2011) and testify of the importance of loving one another.

When the recess bell rang, Grace hurried toward the slide with Samantha.

Chloe came running behind them. “Grace, let’s play zookeeper on the jungle gym.”

“We’re playing on the slide,” Grace said. “Want to come? We can all play together.”

“No, we can’t,” Chloe said. “You have to pick Samantha or me.”

Grace frowned. “But I already told Samantha …”

“Fine!” Chloe said, and she stomped away.

Grace walked with Samantha toward the slide. They heard Chloe’s voice behind them. She was talking to the teacher on recess duty, Mrs. Haskins.

“Grace says she doesn’t want to play with me,” Chloe said.

Grace whirled around. “That’s not what I—”

“Let’s be nice, girls,” Mrs. Haskins said.

So Grace played with Chloe, and Samantha played with someone else.

Grace thought back to the beginning of the year when she met Chloe. They played together almost every day at recess. Now Grace was getting to know the other children in her class. But Chloe got upset when Grace played with someone else. Maybe Grace could hide from Chloe at recess or tell her she didn’t want to be friends anymore. But that wouldn’t be kind.

As Mom drove home from school, Grace sighed.

“That sounds like a sad sigh,” Mom said. “What’s wrong?”

Grace told Mom about Chloe. “Friends shouldn’t be annoying, should they?”

“Do you think Chloe is trying to be annoying?” Mom asked.

“No, I don’t think so,” Grace said.

“Do you think you should tell Chloe she’s annoying?” Mom asked.

Grace pictured herself telling Chloe. She imagined that Chloe’s face would look very sad.

“No,” Grace said. “That doesn’t seem right.”

“Maybe you’ll need to work on not feeling annoyed with Chloe,” Mom said. “That’s a hard thing to do. Maybe you can think of some ideas and we can talk about it again at bedtime.”

That afternoon, Grace sat thinking. She needed some ideas for being patient with Chloe.

Then Grace remembered something. Her teacher, Mrs. Rosario, had shown the class a fun way to think of ideas. Mrs. Rosario called it an idea web.

Grace grabbed a piece of paper and wrote Chloe’s name in the center. Then she circled it and drew four lines coming out of the circle. At the end of each line, Grace wrote one thing she liked about Chloe.

Good imagination

Fun to play with

Loves animals

Fast runner

Grace decided that when she felt annoyed with Chloe, she could think of the reasons she liked Chloe.

At bedtime, Grace showed Mom the paper.

“What a great idea,” Mom said.

“I just thought of something else,” Grace said. “I could give this paper to Chloe at school tomorrow.”

“Another great idea,” Mom said. “I knew you’d think of something.”

At recess the next day, Grace headed outside.

“Chloe!” Grace called. “I have something for you!” Grace handed the paper to Chloe.

“It’s an idea web, isn’t it?” Chloe said.

“Yes,” Grace said. “Those are things I like about you.”

“Thanks,” Chloe said with a smile. “This is so cool.”

Even though the wind was chilly, Grace felt warm and happy as she played with Chloe. When the bell rang, Chloe looked at the paper again.

“I’m going to make an idea web for you,” she said to Grace. “And maybe tomorrow we could show Samantha how to play zookeeper.”

Grace smiled. Tomorrow would be another great day.

Discuss the following questions as a family:

1- What did Grace want to play at recess?
2- Samantha wanted to play with Chloe where?
3- What did Grace do for Chloe?
4- Was Grace happy again?

Testify of the importance of love.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Discuss part of the New Era article Love Lasts by Lisa A. Johnson (June 1989). Testify of the importance of love and how it can bring everlasting happiness.

Love lasts. Believe it or not, those are some of the most important words to remember when it comes to sharing the gospel. Ask anyone who has had a positive experience with the Church what stands out most in his mind, and you can bet the answer will have something to do with love.

By the same token, a lack of that love is a major factor in keeping some people away from the Church. For example, Pam, 18, said, “The Mormon kids in the neighborhood used to make fun of my parents and tell me they would go to hell because they smoked. They said they didn’t want to play with me because my clothes and house smelled like cigarettes. Why would I be interested in a church where the parents teach the kids to be prejudiced like that?”

The Savior made it clear how we’re supposed to treat each other, regardless of religious affiliation, when he said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye alsolove one another” (John 13:34).

Elder M. Russell Ballard said in October 1988 general conference: “As disciples of Christ, we need to feel genuine charity for one another. … I encourage you to build personal, meaningful relationships with your nonmember friends and acquaintances. Interest in the gospel may come later as a natural extension of a good friendship. … If they are not interested in the gospel, we should show unconditional love through acts of service and kindness, and never imply that we see an acquaintance only as a potential convert” (“The Hand of Fellowship,” Ensign, Nov. 1988, p. 30).

Everyone wants to be loved and appreciated for what they are. A good friend will respect and appreciate the good qualities in others, no matter what their religion happens to be.

Having a Christ-like love for your friends will also help them stay active if they do decide to join the Church. You’ll continue being concerned about their needs, which don’t stop when they’re baptized. Sometimes that’s an easy thing to forget.

As members of the Church, we should be very loving people. We not only have Christ’s example of love in the Bible, but we have the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price, and the words of living prophets and Apostles to give us extra guidance and advice on caring for those around us.

“Of course, there will be differences in the personal standards and social activities of faithful Latter-day Saints and members of other groups. But these differences are no excuse for ostracism, arrogance, or unkindness by LDS people,” says Elder Dallin H. Oaks (“Always Remember Him,”Ensign, May 1988, p. 32).

It’s basically a matter of following the example of the Savior. Heavenly Father has many ways of reaching out to his children, and he might be reaching out to them through you. If you work on loving and caring for everyone, you could be an important factor in helping some of them find joy in this life and in the hereafter.

And even if you’re not, your friends will appreciate the kindness and friendship you’ve shown. The love will last.

Testify of the importance of love and how it can bring us everlasting happiness.

Treat

Mini Caramel Apples or Crunchy Caramel Apple Pie

Mini Caramel Apples

Ingredients:

4-inch lollipop sticks
Melon baller
Granny Smith apples (one apple makes about 8 mini apples)
Butterscotch or peanut butter chips
Chopped nuts, nonpareils, sprinkles, shredded coconut (optional)
Small paper candy cups

Instructions:

1- First, cut the lollipop sticks in half at an angle (the pointy end will go into the apple pieces easier). With the melon baller, scoop little balls out of the apple. Each ball should have a section of apple peel. Push half of a lollipop stick into the peel of each ball. Pat the apple pieces dry.

2- Melt the chips according to the package directions. Dip and swirl the mini apples in the melted chips, then roll the apples in nuts, sprinkles, nonpareils, or coconut, if desired. Place the mini apples in paper candy cups to set..

Crunchy Caramel Apple Pie

Ingredients:

PIE
Pastry for one 9-inch piecrust
1/4 cup sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
5 1/2 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples

CRUMB TOPPING
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup quick oats
1/2 cup butter

CRUNCHY CARAMEL TOPPING
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup butterscotch caramel ice-cream sauce

Instructions:

1- Heat oven to 375 degrees. Place the pastry in a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan and crimp the edges. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Next, toss the apples with the sugar mixture and pour them into the prepared piecrust.

2- With a pastry blender, thoroughly combine the crumb topping ingredients. Sprinkle the topping over the apple mixture. Bake the pie for 20 to 30 minutes, then cover with foil and bake for another 20 minutes, until the apples are tender. Remove the pie from the oven and sprinkle on the pecans, then drizzle with the butterscotch caramel sauce. Cool on a wire rack and serve with ice cream. Makes one 9-inch pie.

(Recipes taken from Familyfun.go.com)

Scripture

Malachi 4:6

6- And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

Hymn

I Have a Family Tree –Primary Song #199 or Home Can Be a Heaven on Earth Hymn 298

I Have a Family Tree

1. I have a fam’ly tree
With branches by the dozens.
I have grandpas. I have grandmas.
I have uncles, aunts, and cousins.

2. When it’s reunion time,
No matter what the weather,
It is such a happy day
When the fam’ly gets together.

Home Can Be a Heaven on Earth

1. Home can be a heav’n on earth
When we are filled with love,
Bringing happiness and joy,
Rich blessings from above–
Warmth and kindness, charity,
Safety and security–
Making home a part of heaven,
Where we want to be.

2. Drawing fam’ly near each week,
We’ll keep love burning bright.
Serving Him with cheerful hearts,
We’ll grow in truth and light.
Parents teach and lead the way,
Children honor and obey,
Reaching for our home in heaven,
Where we want to stay.

3. Praying daily in our home,
We’ll feel His love divine;
Searching scriptures faithfully,
We’ll nourish heart and mind.
Singing hymns of thanks, we’ll say,
“Father, help us find the way
Leading to our home in heaven,
Where we long to stay.”

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Gather some family photos of extended family members. Explain who each person is and then play a memory game.

Display several photos of extended family members. Ask who they are and tell each ones name.

1- Are Grandmas and Grandpas important?

2- Are Aunts and Uncles important?

3- What about nieces, nephews and cousins?

Play a memory game. Place all of the pictures out on the floor. Have everyone close their eyes or leave the room. Remove one of the pictures. When they come back or open their eyes, they will need to figure out what family member is missing.

Testify of the importance of  extended family and how we need to get to know them.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Ask the following questions and discuss the following scriptures. You may want to play a simple memory game.

Why is the immediate family important?

Read Ephesians 6: 1-4

Why are family relationships important?

Discuss Malachi 4: 6

Do you know all of your aunts and uncles? cousins? grandparents?

How many uncles do you have?

How many aunts?

Which ones are on your father’s side and which ones are  on your mother’s side?

Play a memory game. Place several pictures of extended family members out on the floor. Have everyone close their eyes or leave the room. Remove one of the pictures. When they come back or open their eyes, they will need to figure out what family member is missing.

Testify of the importance of  extended family and the importance of getting to know them.

Treat

Whatta Melon Pop! or Lemon Cups

Whatta Melon Pop!

Ingredients:

1 cup strawberry sorbet
2 teaspoons mini chocolate chips
3 tablespoons water
1/2 cup lemon sorbet
2 drops green food coloring
wedge-shaped popsicle molds
popsicle sticks

Instructions:

1- To make a batch, mash together 1 cup strawberry sorbet, 2 teaspoons mini chocolate chips, and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl.

2- Put the the mixture into wedge-shaped popsicle molds (we used six 2-ounce molds), filling each about two-thirds full.*

3- Spoon a thin, even layer of lemon sorbet on top. In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup lemon sorbet, 2 drops green food coloring, and 1 tablespoon water.

4- Spoon a layer into each mold and insert a popsicle stick. Freeze the pops for at least four hours.

*Tip: Here’s an easy way to fill the molds: mix these ingredients in a ziplock bag, snip a corner of the bag, then pipe in the mixture.

Lemon Cups

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons lemon zest
4 to 5 lemons
3/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from the lemons)
3 1/2 cups water
1 1/4 cups sugar
Mint leaves and lemon zest for garnish

Instructions:

1- Scrape the 2 teaspoons of zest from one of the lemons, then cut all of the lemons in half and juice them. Measure 1 cup, reserving the rest for another use.

2- Use a melon baller to remove any remaining pulp. Slightly trim the bottom of each lemon cup so it sits flat, then set them on a plate, cover, and place them in the refrigerator.

3- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Bring the water to a boil, then add the lemon juice and zest and boil for 2 minutes.

4- Transfer the liquid to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature. Place the bowl in the freezer until the mixture begins to freeze, several hours or overnight. Use a fork to break up the ice, then stir it until fluffy.

5- Spoon 1/2 cup of the slush into each lemon half, then cover them and freeze until you’re ready to serve. Garnish with a mint leaf and lemon zest before serving, if you like. Serves 8 to 10.

(Recipes taken from Familyfun.go.com)