FHE LessonsLessons and ideas for family home evening!

Scripture

Russell M Nelson Quote

” This Christmas season, through all of our various Christmas traditions, I hope that we are focused first upon the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Hymn

 Picture a Christmas- Primary Songbook #50-51 or Hark! The Herald Angles Sing- Hymn #209

Picture a Christmas

1. Picture a stable in Judea.
Picture a sacred, silent night.
And can you hear
The angels near
And see the star so bright?

Picture the little baby Jesus.
Think of his life and words so dear.
Sing praise to him;
Remember him,
As you picture Christmas this year.

2. Picture the kind and gentle Joseph.
Picture the mother, Mary, fair.
And can you see
So rev’rently
The shepherds kneeling there?

Service

One of the greatest gifts you can give is service.

• Clean the house.
• Offer to babysit.
• Set and clear the table.
• Make dinner for your family.
• Do the dishes or sweep the floor.
• Help a sibling with his or her homework.
• Depending on the climate where you live, shovel the walkway or weed the garden.

Family Time

Even though you have a busy schedule, make time for your family. Your presence will help support your parents, and they will thank you for your efforts.

• Participate in family home evening (without having to be reminded about it).
• Play with your siblings.
• Be on time for family dinners.
• Talk with and listen to family members.
• Participate in family prayer and scripture reading.
• Spend time with your family instead of just your friends, or invite your friends to family activities (with your parents’ permission).

Commitment

Let your parents know you are committing to something important. The best way to show your commitment is to start now and keep going.

• Prepare to serve a mission (for young men). Start now by building up a mission fund if possible.
• Study the scriptures daily.
• Save some of your earnings.
• Go to school without complaint and do your homework on time.
• Attend seminary. If you go to seminary in the morning, wake up on your own.
• Prepare for temple marriage. Make a list of important qualities to look for in a future spouse and then develop those qualities in yourself.

Attitude

Your parents will appreciate a good attitude toward them and your other family members.

• Have a positive attitude.
• Don’t point out flaws in your parents or siblings.
• Make a habit of saying thank you, even for the small things.
• Write a thank-you letter to your parents for all they’ve done for you.
• Resolve conflicts with your parents or siblings without anger or argument.
• Count your blessings—literally. Create a list of things you’ve been able to do because of your parents’ support, and share the list with them.

Candy Cane Crinkles

Ingredients:

Activity

1- Do a secret act of service for a neighbor or friend.

2- Go Christmas caroling.

3- Print, Cutout & make the Nativity.

Scripture

Luke 2:11

11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Hymn

 Christmas Bells – Primary Songbook #54 or I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day- Hymn #214

Christmas Bells

1. Christmas bells are ringing.
Hear what they say to you:
Jesus is born in Bethlehem, in Bethlehem.

2. Christmas bells, ringing, singing:
Jesus is born, is born
in Bethlehem, born in Bethlehem.

White Chocolate Popcorn

Ingredients:

Activity

1- Five Christmas Gifts activity page –

President Monson said that we might want to think about which gifts the Lord would want us to give to Him or to others.

Circle the five children in the picture who are serving others. How are their actions gifts to Jesus?

2- Go Christmas Caroling as a family.

3- Make a Christmas countdown chain, with a scripture on each day. Here are some examples:

Jesus is born. (Luke 2:1–21)

Jesus calms the storm. (Mark 4:35–39)

Jesus feeds five thousand people. (Matthew 14:13–21)

Jesus teaches about the good Samaritan. (Luke 10:25–37)

Jesus heals the ten lepers. (Luke 17:11–19)

Jesus atones for our sins in Gethsemane. (Luke 22:41–45)

Jesus appears to the Nephites in the Americas after His Resurrection. (3 Nephi 11:8–17)

Jesus teaches the Nephites about the sacrament. (3 Nephi 18:1–12)

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

1 Timothy 4:12

12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Hymn

  I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus - Primary Songbook #78 or  Lord, I Would Follow Thee- Hymn #220

I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus

1. I’m trying to be like Jesus;
I’m following in his ways.
I’m trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,

2. I’m trying to love my neighbor;
I’m learning to serve my friends.
I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again.
I try to remember the lessons he taught.
Then the Holy Spirit enters into my thoughts, saying:

Chorus
“Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught.”

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F (325 degrees for glass dish). Coat 13×9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray.

2. Combine graham cracker crumbs and butter. Press into bottom of prepared pan. Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over crumb mixture. Layer evenly with chocolate chips, coconut and nuts. Press down firmly with a fork.

3. Bake 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool. Cut into bars or diamonds. Store covered at room temperature. (Taken from All Recipes)

 Marshmallow Pops

20 Servings

Ingredients:

Scripture

D&C 18:10-14

10 – Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God;

11 – For, behold, the Lord your Redeemer suffered death in the flesh; wherefore he suffered the pain of all men, that all men might repent and come unto him.

12 – And he hath risen again from the dead, that he might bring all men unto him, on conditions of repentance.

13 – And how great is his joy in the soul that repenteth!

14 – Wherefore, you are called to cry repentance unto this people.

Hymn

Repentance- Primary Songbook #98 or Come Unto Jesus – Hymn #117

“I am sorry” is not always easy to say
When I know I’ve been thoughtless and done something wrong.
I’ll try to repent, to do better, to pray
That Heavenly Father will help me be strong.

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Read “Making Things Right” (Friend, April 2012). Discuss the story. Testify of the power of Repentance.

 Read or retell “Making Things Right” (Friend, April 2012).

Making Things Right

“I need to tell you something, Mom,” Melissa said, looking at the floor. She took a deep breath and started to cry.

“My teacher is really mad because someone wrote on the bathroom wall,” Melissa said. “I know I shouldn’t have done it, but someone else started writing and I thought it was funny, so I did too. I feel so bad inside. What can I do?”

Mom gave Melissa a hug and pointed to a picture on the shelf. It was taken on the day Melissa was baptized. “Do remember what Uncle Brett talked about at your baptism?”

Sniffling, Melissa nodded. “That the Holy Ghost can help us know what is right and wrong,” she said. “He said if I did something wrong I would get a bad feeling. Is this what he was talking about?”

“Yes,” Mom said. “What else did he say?”

Melissa thought for a moment. “When we mess up we can repent by asking for forgiveness and fixing what we did wrong,” she said. “And promising to never do it again.”

As Melissa said those words, she knew what she needed to do.

Before the school bell rang the next morning, Melissa was at her teacher’s desk.

“Mrs. O’Dell, I wrote on the bathroom wall,” Melissa said, her heart pounding. “I’m really sorry, and I will clean it up.”

Mrs. O’Dell looked at Melissa for a moment. “You’ll have to stay after school to clean it,” she said. “And you need to tell your mother what you have done.”

“I know, I already told her. I promise to never do anything like this again,” Melissa said.

Melissa smiled as she walked to her desk. The bad feeling she had yesterday was gone.

Discuss the following questions after reading the story.

• Why did Melissa feel bad inside?
• What did Melissa’s mom remind her about?
• What does the Holy Ghost help us to know?
• Can we do anything if we mess up?
• What did Melissa decide to do?

Testify of the power of Repentance

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read “Repentance and Conversion”, from April 2007 General Conference. Discuss the talk given by Elder Nelson and it’s meaning to your family. Testify of the power of Repentance.

Read “Repentance and Conversion”, a talk given by Elder Russell M. Nelson in April 2007.

Repentance and Conversion 

Russell M. Nelson

Last year while Elder David S. Baxter and I were driving to a stake conference, we stopped at a restaurant. Later when returning to our car, we were approached by a woman who called out to us. We were startled by her appearance. Her grooming (or lack of it) was what I might politely call “extreme.” She asked if we were elders in the Church. We said yes. Almost unrestrained, she told the story of her tragic life, swamped in sin. Now, only 28 years old, she was miserable. She felt worthless, with nothing to live for. As she spoke, the sweetness of her soul began to emerge. Pleading tearfully, she asked if there was any hope for her, any way up and out of her hopelessness.

“Yes,” we responded, “there is hope. Hope is linked to repentance. You can change. You can ‘come unto Christ, and be perfected in him.’”  We urged her not to procrastinate. She sobbed humbly and thanked us sincerely.

As Elder Baxter and I continued our journey, we pondered that experience. We recalled the counsel given to a hopeless soul by Aaron, who said, “If thou wilt repent of all thy sins, and will bow down before God, and call on his name in faith, … then shalt thou receive the hope which thou desirest.”

Now, at this closing session of general conference, I too speak on repentance. I do so because the Lord has commanded His servants to cry repentance unto all people.  The Master has restored His gospel to bring joy to His children, and repentance is a crucial component of that gospel.

The doctrine of repentance is as old as the gospel itself. Biblical teachings from the books of Genesis to Revelation teach repentance. Lessons from Jesus Christ during His mortal ministry include these warnings: “The kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel” and “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.”

References to repentance are even more frequent in the Book of Mormon. To the people of ancient America, the Lord gave this commandment: “Again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.”

With the Restoration of the gospel, our Savior has again stressed this doctrine. The word repent in any of its forms appears in 47 of the 138 sections of the Doctrine and Covenants!

Repent from Sin

What does it mean to repent? We begin with a dictionary’s definition that to repent is “to turn from sin … to feel sorrow [and] regret.” To repent from sin is not easy. But the prize is worth the price. Repentance needs to be done one step at a time. Humble prayer will facilitate each essential step. As prerequisites to forgiveness, there must first be recognition, remorse, then confession. “By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them.” Confession is to be made to the person who has been wronged. Confession should be sincere and not merely an admission of guilt after proof is evident. If many persons have been offended, confession should be made to all offended parties. Acts that may affect one’s standing in the Church or the right to its privileges should be confessed promptly to the bishop, whom the Lord has called as a common judge in Israel.

The next step is restitution—to repair damage done—if possible. Then come steps to resolve to do better and refrain from relapse—to repent “with full purpose of heart.” Thanks to the ransom paid by the Atonement of Jesus Christ, full forgiveness is given to the sinner who repents and remains free from sin. To the repentant soul, Isaiah said, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

The Lord’s imperative emphasis on repentance is evident as we read from section 19 of the Doctrine and Covenants: “I command you to repent—repent, lest I smite you by the rod of my mouth, and by my wrath, and by my anger, and your sufferings be sore—how sore you know not, how exquisite you know not, yea, how hard to bear you know not.

“For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent;

“But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I.”

While the Lord insists on our repentance, most people don’t feel such a compelling need. They include themselves among those who try to be good. They have no evil intent. Yet the Lord is clear in His message that all need to repent—not only from sins of commission but from sins of omission as well. Such is the case in His warning to parents: “Inasmuch as parents have children in Zion … that teach them not to understand the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ the Son of the living God, and of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost … , the sin be upon the heads of the parents.”

Broader Meaning of the Word Repent

The doctrine of repentance is much broader than a dictionary’s definition. When Jesus said “repent,” His disciples recorded that command in the Greek language with the verb metanoeo. This powerful word has great significance. In this word, the prefix meta means “change.” The suffix relates to four important Greek terms: nous, meaning “the mind”; gnosis, meaning “knowledge”; pneuma, meaning “spirit”; 28 and pnoe, meaning “breath.”

Thus, when Jesus said “repent,” He asked us to change—to change our mind, knowledge, and spirit—even our breath. A prophet explained that such a change in one’s breath is to breathe with grateful acknowledgment of Him who grants each breath. King Benjamin said, “If ye should serve him who has created you … and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath … from one moment to another—I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.”

Yes, the Lord has commanded us to repent, to change our ways, to come unto Him, and be more like Him. This requires a total change. Alma so taught his son: “Learn wisdom in thy youth,” he said. “Learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God. … Let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever.”

To repent fully is to convert completely to the Lord Jesus Christ and His holy work. Alma taught that concept when he posed these questions: “I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?” That change comes when we are “born again,” converted and focused upon our journey to the kingdom of God.

Fruits of Repentance

The fruits of repentance are sweet. Repentant converts find that the truths of the restored gospel govern their thoughts and deeds, shape their habits, and forge their character. They are more resilient and able to deny themselves of all ungodliness. Moreover, uncontrolled appetite, addiction to pornography or harmful drugs, unbridled passion, carnal desire, and unrighteous pride are diminished with complete conversion to the Lord and a determination to serve Him and to emulate His example. Virtue garnishes their thoughts, and self-confidence grows. Tithing is seen as a joyful and protective blessing, not as a duty or a sacrifice. Truth becomes more attractive, and things praiseworthy become more engaging.

Repentance is the Lord’s regimen for spiritual growth. King Benjamin explained that “the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.” 45 Brothers and sisters, that means conversion! Repentance is conversion! A repentant soul is a converted soul, and a converted soul is a repentant soul.

Repentance for Those Who Are Dead

Each living person can repent. But what about those who have died? They also have opportunities to repent. Scripture declares that “the faithful elders of this dispensation, when they depart from mortal life, continue their labors in the preaching of the gospel of repentance … among those who are … under the bondage of sin in the great world of the spirits of the dead.

“The dead who repent will be redeemed, through obedience to the ordinances of the house of God,

“And after they have paid the penalty of their transgressions, and are washed clean, [they] shall receive a reward according to their works.”

The Prophet Joseph Smith further revealed that “the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children. … We without [our dead] cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. … [This] dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place.”

“Jesus wants me for a sunbeam”? Yes! And you too! He also wants us as bonding blacksmiths—creating celestial welding links—to curb the curse of family fragmentation. The earth was created and temples provided so that families can be together forever. Many, if not most, of us could repent and be converted to more temple and family history work for our ancestors. Thus, our repentance is necessary and essential for their repentance.

For all our kindred dead, to the 28-year-old woman mired in the swamp of sin, and to each one of us, I declare that the sweet blessing of repentance is possible. It comes through complete conversion to the Lord and His holy work.

I know that God lives. Jesus is the Christ. This is His Church. His prophet today is President Gordon B. Hinckley. I so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Discuss the article as a family. You can direct the conversation in any direction you wish. You might consider the following questions as you lead your discussion.

• What are the 4 different aspects of repentance that Elder Nelson mentioned in his talk?
• What are the steps of repentance?
• Discuss the broader meaning of the work “Repent”
• Based on the broader meaning of the word “Repent”, would consider repentance as periodic events, or as an ongoing process?
• What is something new you have learned about repentance after studying this conference talk?

Testify of the power of Repentance.

Optional Toppings:

canned pie filling
fresh berries
whipped cream
chocolate sauce
caramel sauce
lemon curd

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375. Soften cream cheese if needed. With an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar. Add in flour and baking powder and beat to combine. Then add in eggs, one at a time, lemon juice, and vanilla. Beat to combine.

Fill a muffin pan with cupcake liners and place one vanilla wafer at the bottom of each one. Divide batter between 12 muffin papers, filling each cup up to about 1/4 inch from the top. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. They’ll puff way up during baking, but they’ll settle after being chilled.

When you take them out of the oven, place them on a cooling rack and let them cool completely. While they cool, they will sink down in the center. Don’t worry- that’s normal! It makes the perfect little well to fill up with the fruit filling. Before you top them, chill in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours or preferably over night. Then top and serve. You can be creative and top with whatever you like, like chocolate, caramel, lemon curd, whatever! Makes 12 cheesecakes.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie

Ingredients:

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought.
2 large eggs
1/2 C flour
1/2 C white granulated sugar
1/2 C packed brown sugar
3/4 C real butter, softened (1 1/2 sticks)
1 C chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark works best, you might find milk too sweet)
1 C chopped pecans (if desired)

Vanilla ice cream, or sweetened whipped cream for serving
optional: chocolate sauce

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325° F.

Beat eggs in large mixer bowl on high speed until foamy. Beat in flour, granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat in butter. Stir in morsels and nuts. Spoon into pie shell.

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until knife inserted halfway between edge and center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack or serve slightly warmed. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream.

(Recipes taken from www.OurBestBites.com )

Scripture

The Family: A Proclamation to the World (para. 7)

“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.”

Hymn

Families Can Be Together Forever – Primary Songbook #188 or Home Can Be a Heaven on Earth- Hymn #298

Families Can Be Together Forever

1. I have a fam’ly here on earth.
They are so good to me.
I want to share my life with them through all eternity.
2. While I am in my early years,
I’ll prepare most carefully,
So I can marry in God’s temple for eternity.

Chorus
Fam’lies can be together forever
Through Heav’nly Father’s plan.
I always want to be with my own family,
And the Lord has shown me how I can.
The Lord has shown me how I can.

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, Teenagers or Adults*  Explain to your children what “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” is. Read the proclamation, or segments which you would like to share. Select one of the family principles listed in the seventh paragraph of the proclamation which you would like to work on as a family. Watch “Proclamation”. Testify of the sacred blessing of families and of their central role in the Plan of Salvation.

 Explain to your children what “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” is. Read the proclamation, or segments which you would like to share.

This proclamation was read by President Gordon B. Hinckley as part of his message at the General Relief Society Meeting held September 23, 1995, in Salt Lake City, Utah. It explains that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

You can read the full proclamation here.

Select one of the family principles listed below, as mentioned in the seventh paragraph of the proclamation. Discuss the importance of this principle and ways your family can better incorporate that importance principle into your family life. Young children may want to draw pictures of how they will help use that principle in the home.

• Faith
• Prayer
• Repentance
• Forgiveness
• Respect
• Love
• Compassion
• Work
• Wholesome Recreational Activities.

Testify of the sacred blessing of families and of their central role in the Plan of Salvation.

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

John 11:25-26

25- Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

26- And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Hymn

He Died, That We Might Live Again – Primary Songbook #65 or He is Risen! – Hymn #199

He Died, That We Might Live Again

He died that we might live again,
Lord Jesus, our Redeemer true.
He died on Calv’ry’s lonely hill.
His life he gave for me and you.
He rose from the grave on Easter morn,
Our Savior and our King.
He showed his love for all mankind.
For his great love, give thanks and sing.
Rejoice! Rejoice! and sing, sing, sing.

He is Risen!

1. He is risen! He is risen!
Tell it out with joyful voice.
He has burst his three days’ prison;
Let the whole wide earth rejoice.
Death is conquered; man is free.
Christ has won the victory.

2. Come with high and holy hymning;
Chant our Lord’s triumphant lay.
Not one darksome cloud is dimming
Yonder glorious morning ray,
Breaking o’er the purple east,
Symbol of our Easter feast.

3. He is risen! He is risen!
He hath opened heaven’s gate.
We are free from sin’s dark prison,
Risen to a holier state.
And a brighter Easter beam
On our longing eyes shall stream.

Lesson

*For Younger Children* Explain and discuss what Jesus did for us at Easter time. Talk about the importance of the Atonement. Testify of the Atonement and the true meaning of Easter.

Preparation: Bring a picture of someone you love that has died. Prepare three word strips that say “Suffered for our sins,” “Resurrection,” and “Atonement.”

Testify of the Atonement and what it means to you. Testify of the true meaning of Easter.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read Matthew 26:36-45. Discuss D&C  19:16-18. Watch “None Were With Him” – a powerful Mormon Messages Video on Jesus Christ’s Atonement. Testify the Atonement and the true meaning of Easter.

Read aloud Matthew 26:36–45.

36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called^aGethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and ^bpray yonder.

37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and^abegan to be sorrowful and very heavy.

38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is ^aexceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and ^bwatch with me.

39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and ^aprayed, saying, O my ^bFather, if it be possible, let this ^ccup pass from me: nevertheless not as I ^dwill, but as ^ethou ^fwilt.

40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them ^aasleep, and saith unto Peter, What, ^bcould ye not watch with me one hour?

41 ^aWatch and ^bpray, that ye enter not into ^ctemptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy ^awill be done.

43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.

44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.

45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is ^abetrayed into the hands of sinners.

Then read and discuss Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–18.

16 For behold, I, God, have ^asuffered these things for all, that they might not ^bsuffer if they would ^crepent;

17 But if they would not repent they must ^asuffer even as I;

18 Which ^asuffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might ^bnot drink the bitter cup, and shrink—

Watch the following Mormon Messages Video on the Atonement and the true meaning of Easter. Then discuss and share what the Atonement means to each of you, personally.

Testify of the Atonement and what it means to you. Testify of the true meaning of Easter.

Treat

Strawberry Pretzel Squares or 3-Step Mini Cheesecake Baskets

Strawberry Pretzel Squares

Ingredients:

2cups finely crushed pretzels
1/2cup sugar, divided
2/3cup butter or margarine, melted
1-1/2pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
2Tbsp. milk
1cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
2cups boiling water
1pkg. (6 oz.) JELL-O Strawberry Flavor Gelatin
1-1/2cups cold water
4cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions:

HEAT oven to 350°F.

MIX pretzel crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar and butter; press onto bottom of 13×9-inch pan. Bake 10 min. Cool.

BEAT cream cheese, remaining sugar and milk until blended. Stir in COOL WHIP; spread over crust. Refrigerate.

ADD boiling water to gelatin mix in large bowl; stir 2 min. until completely dissolved. Stir in cold water. Refrigerate 1-1/2 hours or until thickened.

STIR berries into gelatin; spoon over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate 3 hours or until firm.

3-Step Mini Cheesecake Baskets

Ingredients:

2pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1/2cup sugar
1/2tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
12 NILLA Wafers
1-1/2cups BAKER’S ANGEL FLAKE Coconut, tinted green
36small jelly beans
12pieces shoestring licorice (4 inch each)

Instructions:

HEAT oven to 350°F.

BEAT cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add eggs; beat just until blended.

PLACE wafer on bottom of each of 12 paper-lined muffin cups. Spoon cream cheese mixture evenly over wafers.

BAKE 20 min. or until centers are almost set. Cool. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Top evenly with coconut and jelly beans just before serving. Bend each licorice piece, then insert both ends into each cheesecake to resemble the handle of a basket. Keep refrigerated.

(Recipes taken from www.KraftRecipes.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)