FHE LessonsLessons and ideas for family home evening!

Scripture

Quote from President Boyd K Packer

“A Testimony is not thrust upon you; it grows. And a testimony is a testimony, and it should be respected, whether it is small or large. We become taller in our testimony like we grow in physical stature and hardly know it is happening, because it comes by growth.”

Hymn

The Church of Jesus Christ- Primary Songbook #77 or Testimony- Hymn #137

The Church of Jesus Christ

I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I know who I am.
I know God’s plan.
I’ll follow him in faith.
I believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ.
I’ll honor his name.
I’ll do what is right;
I’ll follow his light.
His truth I will proclaim.

Testimony

1. The witness of the Holy Ghost,
As borne by those who know,
Has lifted me again to thee,
O Father of my soul.

2. I know that thou art in the heav’n.
I know the Savior reigns.
I know a prophet speaks to us
For our eternal gain.

3. My eyes are wet; my heart is full.
The Spirit speaks today.
O Lord, wilt thou my life renew
And in my bosom stay.

4. As testimony fills my heart,
It dulls the pain of days.
For one brief moment, heaven’s view
Appears before my gaze.

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Read or summarize “The Tradition of Light & Testimony” by Elder L Tom Perry (taken from the Dec 2012 Ensign). Testify of the importance of gaining & strengthening a testimony.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is truly a worldwide Church. Nevertheless, it is important to realize that the Church could never have become what it is today without the birth of a great nation, the United States of America. The Lord prepared a new land to attract the peoples of the world who sought liberty and religious freedom. This new land was blessed with strong leaders who felt duty bound to establish a government that allowed individuals to worship according to their own conscience.

The Founding Fathers of the United States believed that religious faith was fundamental to the establishment of strong government. Many people in the world, however, have forgotten the central importance of religious beliefs in the formation of the policies, laws, and rules of government. Many Americans, for example, do not understand that the founders believed the role of religion would be as important in our day as it was in their day. The founders did not consider religion and morality an intellectual exercise—they forcefully declared it an essential ingredient of good government and the happiness of humankind.

This position was set forth by the first U.S. president, George Washington, in his Farewell Address. He said:

“Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. … Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. … Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

“It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government.”¹

The United States is the promised land foretold in the Book of Mormon—a place where divine guidance directed inspired men to create the conditions necessary for the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was the birth of the United States of America that ushered out the Great Apostasy, when the earth was darkened by the absence of prophets and revealed light. It was no coincidence that the lovely morning of the First Vision occurred just a few decades after the establishment of the United States.

The First Vision precipitated a flood of revealed truth. Knowledge was restored about the nature of the Godhead. A new translated scripture gave a second witness and testament of Jesus Christ. The restoration of the priesthood reendowed mankind with the power and authority to act for and on behalf of God in conducting priesthood ordinances and in reestablishing the Church of Jesus Christ on the earth. We are blessed to be members of the restored Church.

Testify of the importance of gaining & strengthening a testimony.

*For Younger Children* Read or summarize “How can I be a witness of Jesus Christ?” by Elder D Todd Christofferson (taken from the Dec 2012 Friend). Testify of the importance of gaining & strengthening a testimony.

We are witnesses of Jesus Christ when we live so as to reflect His teachings. The way we act, speak, look, and even think should reflect Him and His ways.

We are witnesses of Jesus Christ when we talk to others about our feelings about Him.

We are witnesses of Jesus Christ when we live with a happy outlook that shows our faith in Him.

We are witnesses of Jesus Christ when we bear testimony to others and help them learn of and follow Him.

Testify of the importance of gaining & strengthening a testimony.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Read or summarize “Do I Even Have a Testimony?” (taken from the Dec 2012 New Era). Testify of the importance of gaining & strengthening a testimony.

During a recent fast and testimony meeting, I sat on a cushioned folding chair in our little branch building and tried to convince myself to go up and bear my testimony. I don’t necessarily get stage fright, but I don’t enjoy talking in front of everybody either. Part of me wanted to get up there, and the other part made up excuses not to. The words “I don’t even have a testimony” popped into my mind.

I quickly took those words back, if you can do that with thoughts, because I knew it wasn’t true. “Of course I have a testimony,” I said to myself. “It may not be an extremely great or strong testimony of every gospel topic, but I have a strong belief in some gospel principles.”

I started listing them in my mind. “I know that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost love all of us. I believe that families are extremely important and that through the plan of salvation, families can live together forever.”

I had recently turned 14, and my mom told me with a smile, “Joseph Smith was 14 when he had the First Vision.” I knew this, but that simple sentence strengthened my testimony of Joseph Smith. I know that he was a true prophet called of God and that he translated the Book of Mormonand restored the gospel.

Not all of this came to mind right then, but in the days that followed I thought a lot about that Sunday. As with my testimony of the ProphetJoseph Smith, my belief and testimony of other things didn’t grow just because of what I learned or heard but also through things that happened to me.

For example, last October my grandpa passed away. He had been sick with diabetes for a long time. His was the first funeral of a familymember I’d been to, and it was a very sad time for my family and me. Being among all of my relatives during the funeral and knowing we would see Grandpa again strengthened my testimony that families are extremely important and play a key part in Heavenly Father’s plan. I know that because my mom and dad were sealed in the temple, our family can live together forever. I am so thankful for their choice.

This week my dad taught us a lesson about the Holy Ghost during family home evening. He listed several things we can do to bring the Holy Ghost into our hearts. Among them is bearing our testimonies. He said that it takes courage to bear testimony but that the Lord will bless you with the Holy Ghost for your bravery. This week is a fast Sunday, and I look forward to sharing my testimony with my branch.

Testify of the importance of gaining & strengthening a testimony.

Treat

Almond Toffee Bites or Cinnamon Pretzels

Almond Toffee Bites

Ingredients

Instructions:

1. On a foil lined baking dish (11×7)- or in a silicone brownie bite pan- arrange almonds in a single layer. Set aside.

2. In a heavy pan, combine butter, sugar, vanilla and salt. Cook over medium-high heat with a wooden spoon until butter melts, stirring constantly. Continue cooking (AND STIRRING) an additional 5-7 minutes until candy turns the color of almonds (about 300 degrees). Pour over almonds. If using the brownie bite pan, I use a small metal scoop to get toffee into each bite, working quickly!

3. Cool completely.

4. When candy is cooled and set (about 2 hours), spread chocolate over top of toffee. Sprinkle generously with ground walnuts. If doing both sides, use only half of the chocolate and walnuts. Allow top to set before flipping over and doing bottom. When set, pop out of silicone pan and store in a airtight containers. OR cut into pieces. (Taken from Shugary Sweets)

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

1. Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!
Joyful, all ye nations, rise;
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th’angelic host proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem!

[Chorus]
Hark! the herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King!

2. Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
Ris’n with healing in his wings.
Mild he lays his glory by,
Born that man no more may die;
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth.

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Read or summarize the following article “A Christmas Eve Transformation” (taken from December 2012 Ensign).  Watch the video: What Shall We Give? below. Testify of the true meaning of Christmas - giving, not receiving.

On Christmas Eve, I waited at the bus station in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, to pick up my parents after their five-hour bus ride from Vernal, Utah, to spend Christmas with my sister’s family and me. The bus arrived very late—two hours in fact.

While I waited, I thought about how difficult this holiday season had been for me. I had tried to focus on my preparations for Christmas, but this year my children were traveling with their own families and my husband had passed away, and I soon discovered that no amount of shopping and wrapping or beautiful Christmas music could lighten my heavy heart. However, I pushed these thoughts from my mind when I saw my parents get off the bus.

Soon my mother and I were chatting, waiting in line to pick up their baggage. She casually mentioned that a grandmother on the bus had traveled all the way from Chicago, Illinois, USA, to connect with another bus that would take her to her final destination in Pocatello, Idaho, USA. This traveler was sad and upset, however, because she had missed her connection. Even if she boarded the next bus to Pocatello, she would still miss Christmas with her daughter and new granddaughter.

I pictured in my mind a disappointed grandma alone in a hotel room in a strange city on Christmas Eve. I felt a terrible sadness for her and wanted to do something to help her.

I soon found her talking on a pay phone to her daughter. I walked up to her, gently tapped her on the arm, and asked if I could speak with her. She looked startled but put her hand over the receiver and said, “Yes?”

“Are you the lady who missed the connection to Pocatello?” I asked.

She responded, “Yes.”

The next words out of my mouth surprised both my mother and the stranger. “Will you ask your daughter if she is familiar with Tremonton, Utah?”

With hesitation in her voice, she asked her daughter the question. “Yes, she knows where that is,” came the reply.

“Ask her if she could drive there tonight. That is about halfway from Salt Lake City to Pocatello.”

She again relayed my question to her daughter, and again the answer was affirmative.

“You two decide on a time to meet,” I said, “and I will have you there—but give her this phone number in the event that something goes wrong and we need to communicate.”

I couldn’t hear any more of the conversation, but after she hung up, she looked at me in utter amazement. My mother, too, was in shock as she said to my stepfather, “Harold, make room in the back of Myrle’s car for this lady’s luggage. She is going home with us.”

I introduced myself and my parents to the stranger and learned that her name was Vanessa Black. My stepfather loaded Vanessa’s bags into my little car, Vanessa climbed into the only spot left, and then we all headed to my sister’s house for dinner before leaving for our destination. My heart was joyful as I kept reassuring her that she was no inconvenience (just 80 or so miles [130 km] out of the way).

Our arrival at Tremonton was greeted by an empty town. The service stations and restaurants were closed, and everything was dark as we looked for the place where we were to meet Vanessa’s daughter. Meanwhile, the daughter, who had understood that we would be arriving a half hour earlier, was anxiously trying to contact us by phone. We pulled up to a phone booth, and as my car lights shined into the booth, there stood Vanessa’s daughter. When she saw the lights of my car, she came running, and Vanessa jumped out of the car to embrace her sobbing daughter.

After a short introduction, I said, “Well, we both have a drive ahead of us, so we will leave you now. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.”

Her daughter threw her arms around me and in a teary voice responded, “We will, thanks to you! Merry Christmas to you too.”

When I look back on that Christmas, my heart warms at the memory of the most joyous, peaceful Christmas I ever had. My gift to Vanessa Black was a perfect way for me to remember the birth of the Savior, who said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:40). That Christmas, I received the best possible gift to brighten my Christmas—the gift of giving.

Testify of the true meaning of Christmas - giving, not receiving.

*For Younger Children* Read or tell the following story: “My Gift to Jesus”   (taken from the December 2012 Friend). Testify of the true meaning of Christmas - giving, not receiving.

“Time for family home evening!” Dad called.

I hurried to the living room. We always did fun things on the first family home evening of December.

My younger sister, Michelle, ran ahead of me and jumped into the soft blue armchair.

“No fair!” I exclaimed. “You got to sit there last week. It’s my turn.”

“I got here first, so I get to sit here,” she argued. “You can sit on the couch.”

“I don’t want to sit on the couch,” I snapped.

I stormed over to the rocking chair and turned it so I wouldn’t have to look at Michelle. She made me so mad sometimes! She thought she could have whatever she wanted. Whenever I complained, Mom told me I needed to be unselfish.

After our family sang a hymn and prayed, Dad said, “Christmas is an exciting time, and we need to remember the true meaning of the holiday. Tonight we are going to start with our gifts to Jesus.”

Our gifts to Jesus. I had forgotten about that! We did it every year.

“We celebrate Christmas because Jesus was born,” Dad continued. “He made it possible for us to receive the greatest gift—eternal life with Heavenly Father.”

“And what has He asked us to do in return?” Mom asked.

“To follow Him and keep His commandments,” my brother answered.

Mom gave us each a card and pen. We were supposed to write how we would show Jesus we love Him. That was our gift—to choose something we would do to be more like Jesus.

I knew immediately what my gift should be. Jesus taught us to love others, even if they made us angry. I knew Jesus wanted me to love my sister. I wrote, “I will be nice to Michelle.”

We put our cards in a box wrapped in gold paper. We put the box under the Christmas tree. Every time we looked at the box, we were supposed to remember the Savior’s gift to us and our gift to Him.

A few days later, I saw that Michelle had taken my favorite shirt without asking. I wanted to yell at her. Then I looked at the gold box and remembered how much I loved Jesus. I could show Him love by being kind to my sister. I said, “You look really pretty today, Michelle.”

She smiled. “I’m sorry I didn’t ask to wear your shirt. You weren’t here when I got dressed, and I wanted to look extra nice for my class Christmas party today.”

I felt warm inside. I was glad I had chosen to be nice to Michelle instead of getting angry at her.

For the rest of the month, I tried to remember that good feeling and my goal to be like Jesus. I got better at being patient and loving.

On Christmas Eve, Dad read the nativity story, and the rest of us acted it out. I decided to be the angel instead of arguing with Michelle over who got to play the part of Mary.

Next we opened the gold box and read our gifts to Jesus out loud. When I read mine, Mom said, “I’ve noticed that you’ve been extra nice to Michelle. I’m so proud of you!”

I was proud too. I hadn’t unwrapped any presents yet, but I had already received something special: a feeling from the Holy Ghost telling me I had done the right thing.

Testify of the true meaning of Christmas - giving, not receiving.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Read & share points from the following article “Gifts You Can’t Wrap” by President Monson (taken from December 2012 New Era).  Testify of the true meaning of Christmas - giving, not receiving.

At Christmastime we often focus on giving gifts to those we love. But remember that some of the greatest presents are those you can’t wrap. Here are some unforgettable gifts you can give your parents.

Testify of the true meaning of Christmas - giving, not receiving.

Treat

Grasshopper Chocolate Bark or Candy Cane Crinkles

Grasshopper Chocolate Bark

Yields 24 Pieces

Ingredient

Instructions:

1. Line the bottom of a baking sheet with wax paper.

2. Melt white chocolate or white baking chips in the microwave or a bowl set over simmering water (see tips above).

3. Add food coloring, mint extract, and then 1 Tbsp vegetable oil, stirring just until smooth and uniformly green.

4. Pour the green chocolate into the baking sheet and spread it evenly almost to the edge of wax paper.

5. Lift the pan a few inches above the countertop and let it fall back onto the counter. Repeat a few times to bring any air bubbles to the surface.

6. Let cool for ~10 minutes in the fridge.

7. Melt remaining chocolate in the microwave.

8. Stir in the vegetable oil.

9. Pour over the green mint layer and spread it evenly, almost to the edge of the green layer.

10. Drop the pan onto the countertop to get rid of any air bubbles.

11. Sprinkle the chopped mints over top and refrigerate until set, about 20 minutes.

12. Cut or break into pieces.

13. Store in an airtight container in a cool place. I loosely wrapped several pieces in wax paper before gifting. (Taken from Confections of a Foodie Bride)

 Do What is Right

1. Do what is right; the day-dawn is breaking,
Hailing a future of freedom and light.
Angels above us are silent notes taking
Of ev’ry action; then do what is right!

[Chorus]
Do what is right; let the consequence follow.
Battle for freedom in spirit and might;
And with stout hearts look ye forth till tomorrow.
God will protect you; then do what is right!

2. Do what is right; the shackles are falling.
Chains of the bondsmen no longer are bright;
Lightened by hope, soon they’ll cease to be galling.
Truth goeth onward; then do what is right!

3. Do what is right; be faithful and fearless.
Onward, press onward, the goal is in sight.
Eyes that are wet now, ere long will be tearless.
Blessings await you in doing what’s right!

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Read or summarize points from the following article “Why Tithing Settlement?” (taken from December 2009 Ensign).  Testify of the importance of attending tithing settlement each year.

After commanding His people to pay their tithes, the Lord promised to “open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10; see verses 8–12). Those who have seen the fulfillment of this promise can testify that the blessings are often more spiritual than financial, but the Lord also promises, “And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field” (Malachi 3:10).

Tithing is an important test of our personal righteousness. President Joseph F. Smith (1838–1918) said: “By this principle it shall be known who is for the kingdom of God and who is against it. … By it shall be known whether we are faithful or unfaithful.” ¹ If we are satisfied in our hearts that we have paid an honest tithing, why is it necessary to declare it to the bishop? There are several important reasons.

Declaration of tithing status. We are accountable for what we have been given by God. And we shall be judged “out of those things which [are] written in the books, according to [our] works” (Revelation 20:12; see also 3 Nephi 27:26). President James E. Faust said, “One of the great blessings the people of this Church have is to meet with the bishop once each year, settle their tithing, and report that what they had paid in contributions constitutes a tithe. It is also a great blessing for the bishops to have this experience.” ²

At the end of the year, the bishop or branch president is asked to record on the records of the Church the tithing status of each member in his unit. It is our privilege to exercise our accountability by declaring to him our own tithing status.

A time to show our commitment. Tithing settlement allows all members the chance to demonstrate their obedience to the principle of tithing. Parents can use it as a teaching time. Children who hear their parents’ declaration learn that paying tithing and fast offerings is important to their parents and to the Lord.

An audit of personal and Church records. Reviewing your records of contributions helps you ensure they are correct. An important part of the Church’s audit procedures is to have individuals check whether their personal records match the Church’s and whether contributions were properly distributed in the categories selected on the donation slips.

A time for commitment. If you are not a full-tithe payer or if you haven’t paid any tithes or offerings, the interview with the bishop can be the beginning of repentance, a time to commit to begin or to do better.

Great blessings come to those who faithfully pay tithing and to those who faithfully attend tithing settlement.

Testify of the importance of attending tithing settlement each year.

*For Younger Children* Read or tell the following story: “Is My Tithing Too Small?” (taken from the January 2009 Friend). Testify of the importance of paying tithing & attending tithing settlement, even when you are young.

Ali looked glumly at her tithing jar. Every time she earned money, she divided it into a jar for tithing, a jar for savings, and a jar for spending money. She had worked hard helping a neighbor stack firewood and pull weeds, but her older sister Carrie had tended the neighbors’ dog and worked picking raspberries for a whole week during the summer. Carrie had earned more money, and her tithing jar showed it.

Today the family would be attending tithing settlement and discussing whether or not they had each paid a full tithe that year. Before church, Ali watched Carrie pour her money into a tithing envelope and fill out the slip. Ali tried not to cry when she counted out her own tithing, but tears burned the corners of her eyes. She didn’t want the Lord to be disappointed in her for paying less. Maybe she could ask her parents for a little extra money to put in her tithing envelope.

Timidly, she crept into the den where Dad was reading.

Dad looked up and motioned for Ali to come and sit on his lap. “Tell me what’s on your mind,” he said.

Ali bravely held the tears back. “Daddy, is my tithing too small?” she asked in nearly a whisper. “I earned $22.50 this year, so I only have $2.25 in tithing to give the bishop today. Carrie has way more than I do. Will Jesus or the bishop be mad at me?”

Dad smiled and looked into her eyes. “Ali, tithing is one-tenth of what we earn. Carrie did a lot of different jobs over the summer. She worked hard for what she earned, don’t you think?”

Ali remembered Carrie coming home from picking raspberries, looking tired and a little sunburned. She also remembered Carrie taking care of the Hamiltons’ dog. Ali nodded.

“You also worked really hard for your money,” Dad said. “Those pieces of firewood that you stacked were heavy and hurt your hands. You were even more tired after you weeded the garden. Isn’t that right?”

Ali easily remembered how heavy her arms had felt carrying all those huge pieces of wood, and how her hands had stung when she washed them after pulling weeds. She had worked hard.

“Ali,” Dad said, “it doesn’t matter to the Lord how much money a person earns as long as he or she works honestly for the money. Then He asks us to give back to Him just one-tenth of what we earned. It doesn’t matter if we earned a lot or a little, as long as we give 10 percent to the bishop.”

“So the bishop will be happy with both me and Carrie even though we have different amounts of tithing?” Ali asked.

“That’s right,” Dad said. “And Heavenly Father and Jesus will be pleased too.”

Ali could hardly speak because she was so happy. It all made sense. As long as she obeyed the commandments, the Lord would be happy with her. Now she could give the bishop $2.25 and feel just right about it in her heart.

Testify of the importance of paying tithing & attending tithing settlement, even when you are young.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Read or summarize the following article “The 10 Percent Solution” by Douglas M Brown (taken from January 1990 New Era).  Testify of the importance of attending tithing settlement.

“I didn’t think that tithing settlement was such a big deal, but Brother Jacobs, our home teacher, seemed pretty excited about it. He and his son Brian were over and, like always, they asked for my dad’s permission to have a prayer. My dad grunted yes and Brother Jacobs gave the prayer. As he prayed, something he said caught my attention. Brother Jacobs said, “And bless Brother Johnson that he will respond to our message.”

My dad is really a good man, but he didn’t go to church or even want to talk about it. It had taken almost a year of the home teachers knocking on our door for my dad to let them in the house, but I’m glad he did.

I wondered what Dad would do. It was rare that he would even stay in the room when the home teachers were there, but he did nothing. Brother Jacobs was pretty brave to say what he did with my dad listening. He was lucky Dad didn’t leave the room.

Dad was his usual self. He was willing to talk about most things—sports, his yard, the weather—but not about the Church. We were talking about Dad’s favorite football team when Brother Jacobs blurted out, “Brother Johnson, we want you to come to tithing settlement.”

I thought Brother Jacobs had made a big mistake because Dad got very quiet and looked uncomfortable. Finally he said, “Why should I come totithing settlement? I don’t pay tithing.”

Now I got quiet and felt uncomfortable. How was Brother Jacobs going to answer Dad’s question?

Brother Jacobs said, “Because the Lord loves you.” Brother Jacobs said the bishop had asked all the home teachers to go to every member and invite them to tithing settlement. He told Dad that he wanted him to go because he wanted our family to have the blessing of going. My dad got quiet again.

Brother Jacobs told Dad that tithing settlement was a simple way for the Lord to bless our lives. If we paid tithing or not the Lord would bless us for going to tithing settlement. Tithing settlement only takes a few minutes, he said, and the bishop does not make anyone feel ashamed or guilty. Brother Jacobs also promised that if Dad took his family to tithing settlement, he would have a happier home and each one of his family would become a better person.

Dad didn’t say much. He really loves us and wants to do what is right for us. When Brother Jacobs asked if he would go to tithing settlement, Dad said yes.

The end of the month came, and my Dad took us to tithing settlement. Just before the bishop called us in, I wondered what Dad was thinking. He was awfully fidgety. I think he didn’t want to be there. I remembered Brother Jacob’s promise and wondered if our lives would change.

When the bishop asked us in, he greeted Dad like his best friend. I don’t know if that made Dad feel at ease or more uncomfortable. The bishop talked to us briefly, then asked my youngest sister, Suzie, if she knew what tithing was.

Suzie said yes, tithing was when you get ten coins, you give one to the bishop. The bishop said that was true, but it was the Lord’s money and he, as the bishop, received it for Him. The bishop asked Suzie if she had received any money this year. Suzie said she had gotten some money for her allowance. The bishop asked Suzie if she paid a full tithing. She said yes.

The bishop then asked Maggie, my older sister, if she was a full-tithe payer. Maggie said yes like she was Joan of Arc going off to be burned. She said every bit of money she got was tithed and she was a full-tithe payer. Maggie was always too dramatic.

Now it was my turn to say if I was a full-tithe payer. I was about to say yes, but then I remembered that I had done some yard work last summer and hadn’t tithed the money I got for it. I had to tell the bishop no, I wasn’t a full-tithe payer.

The bishop asked me if I wanted to be a full-tithe payer. I said yes, I guess so. Then he asked if I had the money now. I pulled out my wallet and gave him what I had. It still wasn’t enough. Then I felt some pressed into my hand. It was my dad giving me the money needed to pay a full tithing. I looked at my dad and he said I could pay him back later. I gave the bishop the rest of my tithing, and he wrote down that I was a full-tithe payer. It was a pretty good feeling.

The bishop then asked my mom if she paid a full tithe. She said yes. She had tithed the money she got for watching the neighbor’s children.

It was Dad’s turn to declare. He is a proud man, and I knew he hadn’t paid any tithing this year, so I was surprised that he had come at all. What really surprised me was when my dad pulled an envelope out of his pocket and gave it to the bishop. Dad said it wasn’t a full tithing but it was a start.

The bishop became quiet. He just stared at my dad. After what seemed to be forever, the bishop told my dad he was glad that my father had set a good example for his family and as long as my father kept his promise, the Lord would keep his.

We were all pretty quiet on the way back home. I wondered what the bishop meant about promises. My dad looked pretty surprised when the bishop said it. I didn’t find out what the bishop meant until three months later, but I did find out that Brother Jacobs was right almost right away. Two weeks after tithing settlement Dad came to church for the first time in years. And he has kept going. Just last fast Sunday I found out what had happened.

It was a real spiritual meeting. Even I got up to bear my testimony. And before I was able to sit down, Dad got up to bear his testimony. He told how five years ago he had got out of the habit of going to church. Back in November he began thinking seriously about his children and how the world would affect them as they were growing up. He saw how his children’s friends were influencing them to start to do things that he knew would lead to trouble. This is what he was thinking when the home teachers came over. When Brother Jacobs promised Dad that his family would be better people if he took them to tithing settlement, he knew he had to take the opportunity.

As the time for tithing settlement got close, my dad began to think about why he didn’t pay tithing. He used to pay it and didn’t miss it at all. He only stopped paying because he stopped going to church. My dad thought that if he could believe going to tithing settlement would help his family, then he could believe that paying tithing would also help. My dad said a silent prayer where he promised the Lord that he would start paying tithing and he expected the Lord to keep his promise. Right at that moment, my dad began to change.

My dad then told the ward that when he met with the bishop, it really felt good to give, even though it wasn’t a full tithing. He learned that starting was the important part. He also told the ward that when the bishop had told him the Lord would keep his promise, my dad knew the Lord had answered his prayer. He also found out what Brother Jacobs had said about tithing settlement was true. My dad said that if he hadn’t gone totithing settlement he would not be in church today. After going to tithing settlement my dad began to think where he was headed. He realized that it wasn’t too late to change his life, so he started by coming to church.

He told everyone that tithing was a true principle that had changed his life. And, you know something, he’s right.”

Testify of the importance of attending tithing settlement.

Treat

Thumbprint Cookies or Caramel Thumbprints

Thumbprint Cookies

Yields 6 Dozen Cookies

Ingredient

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar and stir in the vanilla extract. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the flour and salt. Combine the flour mixture and the butter mixture until the dough is crumbly but holds together when pinched.

2. Take a walnut-sized piece of dough in one hand. With the thumb of the other hand, gently knead it three times. Roll it into a ball and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. With your knuckle or thumb, press a well in the center and fill with 1/2 teaspoon of jelly.

3. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. (Taken from Spoonful)

Come, Follow Me

1. “Come, follow me,” the Savior said.
Then let us in his footsteps tread,
For thus alone can we be one
With God’s own loved, begotten Son.

2. “Come, follow me,” a simple phrase,
Yet truth’s sublime, effulgent rays
Are in these simple words combined
To urge, inspire the human mind.

3. Is it enough alone to know
That we must follow him below,
While trav’ling thru this vale of tears?
No, this extends to holier spheres.

4. Not only shall we emulate
His course while in this earthly state,
But when we’re freed from present cares,
If with our Lord we would be heirs.

5. We must the onward path pursue
As wider fields expand to view,
And follow him unceasingly,
Whate’er our lot or sphere may be.

6. For thrones, dominions, kingdoms, pow’rs,
And glory great and bliss are ours,
If we, throughout eternity,
Obey his words, “Come, follow me.”

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Read or summarize the following article “Come Unto Christ” by President Henry B Eyring (taken from March 2008 Ensign).  Testify of the importance of coming unto Christ and being baptized.

The words “come unto Christ” are an invitation. It is the most important invitation you could ever offer to another person. It is the most important invitation anyone could accept. From the beginning of the Restoration of the gospel in this dispensation, it has been the charge given by Jesus Christ to His representatives. Their charge has been “to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ.” ¹

Every member of the Church, upon accepting the baptismal covenant, becomes a disciple who has promised to stand as a witness of Jesus Christ at all times in any place he or she may be in. ² The purpose of our witness is to invite people to come unto Him.

All of us should be intensely interested in learning how to issue that invitation effectively. We know from experience that some will not respond. Only a few responded when the Savior Himself offered this invitation during His mortal ministry. But great was His joy in those who recognized His voice. And great has been our joy when those we have invited have come unto Him.

Testify of the importance of coming unto Christ and being baptized.

*For Younger Children* Read or tell the following story: “What My Father Gave Me” (taken from the Nov 2012 Friend). Testify of the importance of being baptized.

I’ve gotten lots of great birthday presents in my life, but what I got from my dad on my eighth birthday takes the cake. And it all started when he asked me a single question in a room full of people.

That room was in our church building, and the people filling it were myfamily members. I had never seen so many of them in church at one time! We were all there to see my cousin Bre get baptized.

As I watched Bre’s parents take pictures of her in her white dress, I started feeling really excited about my own baptism.

I went over to look at the font, thinking about what my special day would be like. Would the water be warm? Would all my family be there? I hoped I would feel the peaceful, clean feeling that I had heard other people tell about. All of these thoughts were tumbling around in my mind when Dad walked over and asked the question that changed everything.

“Chris, who do you want to baptize you?”

Here’s the thing: my dad couldn’t baptize me because he wasn’t a member of the Church.

My mom is a convert, which means she got baptized later in life. But my dad never seemed to want to be baptized, and that made me sad sometimes. I didn’t talk about it very much because I didn’t want to make him feel bad. But this time, I decided to tell him.

“I want you to baptize me. You’re my dad!”

I still remember the look on his face. First he was surprised. Then he looked kind of sad. Then his expression turned thoughtful, as if he were thinking about something important.

“C’mon, buddy. We’ll talk about it later,” he said, wrapping his arm around me as we headed to our seats.

The next day, I stood with my dad again—this time in front of the bishop’s office. It was time for me to meet with the bishop for my baptismal interview. I was pretty nervous, and it seemed like Dad was too. He kept pacing back and forth in front of the office door. After I had my interview, Dad walked right up to the bishop.

“What do I have to do to be able to baptize my son?” he asked.

The bishop froze, right in the middle of his handshake. You should’ve seen the smile that came across his face! He told my dad that he needed to be baptized and receive the Aaronic Priesthood. My dad said that he was finally ready to make these special promises with Heavenly Father.

You can probably guess how this story ends. A month later, I stood in the baptismal font dressed in white. The water was warm. My family was there. Best of all, my dad was standing next to me, ready to baptize me.

I know that lots of kids are still waiting and praying for a family member to get baptized. It’s hard to wait, but we can keep being good examples and never give up hope. Knowing this makes me feel even more grateful for the decision my dad finally made—the decision that gave me the best birthday of my life.

Testify of the importance of being baptized.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Read or summarize the following article: “An Empty Font” (taken from the February 2012 New Era). Testify of the importance of coming unto Christ & being baptized.

It was 7:45 a.m. on a rainy August morning here in Freetown, Sierra Leone, West Africa. We (the full-time missionaries in the Freetown District) had planned a baptismal service and were determined to hold it, rain or shine. It was then I received a call from Brother Allieu, a member from our branch, but I could not totally understand what he was saying, as he was speaking rapidly in Krio, the local language. I told him to take a deep breath and speak slowly. He did so and said, “Elder Naeata, there is no water for the baptismal font. I am sorry. There is no water.”

I thanked him for the call and then announced the bad news to the other elders. Immediately we began to think of how we could still perform this sacred ordinance. It was then that Elder Agamah reminded us of the waterfall and pond up the mountain nearby in a place called Mellow. The elders all agreed we should try and hold the baptism there, so we obtained permission to do so.

As everyone gathered later that morning at the bottom of the mountain, the group came to a stark realization of the formidable task looming ahead. However, the determined company had no sign of hesitation to press forward. Men and women and even children walked and talked happily up the wet and slippery trail. Gradually ascending, we took a short detour to cross the river.

As we hiked, the zeal of some in the party began to fade when the rain picked up, but we pressed forward with hope. Still, the rugged path seemed to have no end. Finally we arrived at our destination. Our hearts were happy, but the rain persisted to beat down upon us. As we prepared for the baptismal service, we took refuge from the rain under a large mango tree.

We opened by singing the hymn “The Spirit of God” (Hymns, no. 2). After the opening devotional we went to the baptismal site. The water was rushing off the falls and into the pond where we would perform the sacred ordinance.

A father entered the pond and helped his son into the water when, suddenly, the rain stopped. The rays of the sun broke through the clouds and illuminated the pond. We could feel the presence of the Spirit. After the father baptized his son, a husband baptized his wife, and then the elders baptized their investigators. The sun continued to shine, as did the smiles on our faces.

We closed the service by singing “Come, Follow Me” (Hymns, no. 116). Yes, indeed, we did follow Him. We followed our Savior up and down the mountain, across full, flowing creeks, up the steep and wet trails, and through the rain. And those who were baptized truly followed the Savior’s example as they entered the waters of baptism.

Testify of the importance of coming unto Christ & being baptized.

Treat

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate or Apple Enchiladas

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

Yields 3 Servings

Ingredients

Instructions:

1. In a medium sauce pan over medium low heat whisk together your milk and hot cocoa mix.

2. Add your canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice.

3. Heat until desired temperature is reached.

4. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and/or marshmallows and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. (Taken from Cookies & Cups)

How Firm a Foundation

1. How firm a foundation, ye Saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in his excellent word!
What more can he say than to you he hath said,
Who unto the Savior, who unto the Savior,
Who unto the Savior for refuge have fled?

2. In ev’ry condition—in sickness, in health,
In poverty’s vale or abounding in wealth,
At home or abroad, on the land or the sea—
As thy days may demand, as thy days may demand,
As thy days may demand, so thy succor shall be.

3. Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, upheld by my righteous,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.

4. When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not thee o’erflow,
For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless,
And sanctify to thee, and sanctify to thee,
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

5. When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply.
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume, thy dross to consume,
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.

6. E’en down to old age, all my people shall prove
My sov’reign, eternal, unchangeable love;
And then, when gray hair shall their temples adorn,
Like lambs shall they still, like lambs shall they still,
Like lambs shall they still in my bosom be borne.

7. The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose
I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no never, I’ll never, no never,
I’ll never, no never, no never forsake!

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Watch the following video on Highlights from the October 2012 General Conference.  Testify of the importance of applying the things we learn from General Conference.

Testify of the importance of applying the things we learn from General Conference.

*For Younger Children* Discuss the following questions as a family. Testify of the importance of applying the things we learn from General Conference.

-What is General Conference?

-Who talks at General Conference?

-What do they talk about?

-How do/did you feel when we watch/watched General Conference?

-Did the prophet talk?

Discuss some of the topics that were discussed during General Conference.

Testify of the importance of applying the things we learn from General Conference.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Watch the following video on Highlights from the October 2012 General Conference. Recall conference talks that stood out to you. Testify of the importance of applying the things we learn from General Conference.

Set goals on how you would like to improve over the next 6 months.

Testify of the importance of applying the things we learn from General Conference.

Treat

M&M Bark or Rolo Cake Mix Bars

M&M Bark

Ingredients

Instructions:

1. Line an 8 X 8 inch pan with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking spray.

As I Search the Holy Scriptures

1. I love to read the holy scriptures,
And, ev’ry time I do,
I feel the Spirit start to grow within my heart—
A testimony that they’re true.

2. So, prayerfully I’ll read the scriptures
Each day my whole life through.
I’ll come to understand.
I’ll heed the Lord’s command
And live as he would have me do.

Chorus
Search, ponder, and pray
Are the things that I must do.
The Spirit will guide, and, deep inside,
I’ll know the scriptures are true.

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Read & discuss the article listed below (taken from the October 2012 Ensign).  Apply points from the article. Testify of the importance reading scriptures.

Do you sometimes find it hard to study—really study—the scriptures? Here are some ideas you can use to add more life to your scripture study and make the most of your reading time.

 **Have each individual pick something from the article/ list that they would like to implement into their scripture study.**

Testify of the importance reading scriptures.

*For Younger Children* Read & discuss the story listed below (taken from the October 2012 Friend). Discuss the questions below. Testify of the importance reading scriptures.

Abby stared at the pile of rocks on the table. Her Primary teacher, Sister Knecht, had set them down without any explanation. After the opening prayer, Sister Knecht put a beautiful illustration on the board. “Who can tell me what this is a picture of?”

“That’s what the Newport Beach California Temple is going to look like when it’s finished,” Abby said.

“That’s right, Abby. This is an artist’s drawing of the Newport Beach Temple.”

The temple had been announced last year, and Abby was excited for when it would be finished. She wasn’t old enough to participate in baptisms for the dead now, but she would be when the temple opened. She knew that having a temple so close was a special blessing. Some people had to travel days and days to get to a temple!

“Right now they’re laying the foundation for the temple,” Sister Knecht said. “The temple will be built on a strong foundation in case an earthquake happens.”

“Like it says in the song, ‘The wise man built his house upon a rock,’” Abby’s friend Hayley said.

“Exactly,” Sister Knecht said.

Sister Knecht held up one of the rocks. “This is a special rock,” she said. It was round and smooth and was about the size of Abby’s fist. Abby found rocks like this in the stream near her house. What was so special about a regular rock?

“This rock will be used in building part of the foundation for the temple. The architect has asked that each Primary child write his or her favorite scripture on one of these rocks before they are put in place.”

Abby grinned. She was thrilled to be a part of building the temple. But Abby liked lots of scriptures. She wasn’t sure which one she wanted to put on the rock.

“If you don’t know what you want to write on your rock yet, you can think about it during the week and write your scripture in class next week,” Sister Knecht said.

On her way home from church, Abby talked with her family about the temple. Her brothers and sisters were excited about the scripture rocks too.

“What scripture do you want to write on your rock, Abby?” her brother Nathan asked.

“I don’t know yet, but I want to pick a good one!” she said.

While she was reading her scriptures that night, Abby read, “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.”

Nephi was talking about Heavenly Father’s instructions to return to Jerusalem for the brass plates. Abby knew that Heavenly Father wanted her to go to the temple. He was providing a way for her to do that by building a temple close to her home.

The next week Abby wrote 1 Nephi 3:7 on her rock and gave it back to Sister Knecht. Abby felt good inside. She knew that when the temple was finished, every time she went inside it she would think of her scripture rock. It felt good to be a part of building the temple.

Discuss the following questions:
What picture did Sister Knecht show the primary class?
Sister Knecht gave something to Abby to write her favorite scripture on. What was it?
How did Abby feel when she gave the scripture rock to Sister Knecht?
What is your favorite scripture story?

Testify of the importance reading scriptures.

*For Teenagers or Adults*  Watch the video below. Read & discuss the article listed below (taken from the October 2012 Ensign).  Apply points from the article. Testify of the importance reading scriptures.

Testify of the importance reading scriptures.

Treat

Halloween Chex Mix or Goblin Feet

Halloween Chex Mix

9 Servings

Ingredients

Instructions:

1.  In medium microwavable bowl, microwave chopped baking bars uncovered on High 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth.

Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice

1. Come, listen to a prophet’s voice,
And hear the word of God,
And in the way of truth rejoice,
And sing for joy aloud.
We’ve found the way the prophets went
Who lived in days of yore.
Another prophet now is sent
This knowledge to restore.

2. The gloom of sullen darkness spread
Thru earth’s extended space
Is banished by our living Head,
And God has shown his face.
Thru erring schemes in days now past
The world has gone astray;
Yet Saints of God have found at last
The straight and narrow way.

3. ’Tis not in man they put their trust
Nor on his arm rely.
Full well assured, all are accursed
Who Jesus Christ deny.
The Savior to his people saith,
“Let all my words obey,
And signs shall follow living faith,
Down to the latest day.”

4. Then heed the words of truth and light
That flow from fountains pure.
Yea, keep His law with all thy might
Till thine election’s sure,
Till thou shalt hear the holy voice
Assure eternal reign,
While joy and cheer attend thy choice,
As one who shall obtain.

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Watch a video “General Conference“. Brainstorm ways we can prepare for General Conference. Testify of the importance of preparing for & listening to General Conference.

Why is General Conference important?

What can we do to prepare for General Conference?

Testify of the importance of preparing for & listening to General Conference.

*For Younger Children* Make a General Conference Countdown Chain. Explain what General Conference is & how we receive direction from Heavenly Father throught the prophet. Testify of the importance General Conference.

Make a countdown chain until General Conference. Explain the importance of General Conference. Show a picture of the prophet & explain that during General Conference the prophet tells us what Heavenly Father wants us to do and know.

Testify of the importance of General Conference.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Read or highlight point from the article “General Conference–No Ordinary Blessing” by President Utchdorf. Testify of the importance preparing for & listening to General Conference.

A fine member of the Church was talking with a neighbor who was not of our faith. When the topic of discussion turned to general conference, the neighbor asked, “You say you have prophets and apostles? And twice a year in a worldwide conference they reveal the word of God?”

“Absolutely,” the member replied with confidence.

The neighbor thought about that for a moment. He seemed genuinely interested and then asked, “What did they say in the last general conference?”

At this point the good member of the Church went from feeling excited about sharing the gospel to feeling embarrassed. Try as he might, he couldn’t think of the details of a single talk.

His friend found this troubling and said, “You mean to tell me that God speaks to man in our day and you can’t remember what He said?”

The brother felt humbled by this exchange. He vowed that he would do better to remember the words spoken by the Lord’s servants in general conference.

We all know how hard it is to remember every message of general conference, and I’m confident that we need not be embarrassed if we don’t remember everything. Nevertheless, there are messages in each general conference given as a gift and a blessing from heaven specifically for our personal life situations.

In preparation for general conference, let me suggest three basic concepts that may help us to better receive, remember, and apply the words spoken by the Lord’s servants.

Testify of the importance of preparing for & listening to General Conference.

Treat

Brownies SWIRLED Peanut Butter Cup or Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies

Brownies SWIRLED Peanut Butter Cup

12 Servings

Ingredients

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 tablespoon water
3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 2/3 cups (10-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® SWIRLED™ Milk Chocolate & Peanut Butter Morsels, divided
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions:

Lord, I Would Follow Thee

1. Savior, may I learn to love thee,
Walk the path that thou hast shown,
Pause to help and lift another,
Finding strength beyond my own.
Savior, may I learn to love thee—

[Chorus]
Lord, I would follow thee.

2. Who am I to judge another
When I walk imperfectly?
In the quiet heart is hidden
Sorrow that the eye can’t see.
Who am I to judge another?

3. I would be my brother’s keeper;
I would learn the healer’s art.
To the wounded and the weary
I would show a gentle heart.
I would be my brother’s keeper—

4. Savior, may I love my brother
As I know thou lovest me,
Find in thee my strength, my beacon,
For thy servant I would be.
Savior, may I love my brother—

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Read or tell the story of Abinadi (Mosiah 11:20 – 13:25;  17:1-20). Discuss the story of Abinadi & how he was an example of the believers. Brainstorm ways we can be examples of the believers. Testify of the importance of being an example of the believers.

Read or tell the story of Abinadi (Mosiah 11:20 – 13:25; Mosiah 17:1-20).

How was Abinadi an example of the believers?

What things can we do to be an example of the believers?

Re-read 1 Timothy 4:12.

Testify of the importance of being an example of the believers.

*For Younger Children* Share different stories from “Take the Lead” (Sept 2012 Friend). Discuss ways we can be an example. Testify of the importance and simplicity of being an example.

Share simple ideas of how we can be an example.

Testify of the importance & simplicity of being an example.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Watch the video below “Charity: An Example of the Believers“. Re-read 1 Timothy 4:12. Brainstorm ways we can be examples of the believers. Testify of the importance & simplicity of being an example of the believers.

Re-read 1 Timothy 4:12.

Brainstorm ways we can be examples of the believers and live a more Christlike life.

Testify of the simplicity & importance of being an example of the believers.

Treat

Magic Cookie Bars or Goldfish Marshmallow Pops

Magic Cookie Bars

36 Servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 (14 ounce) can EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk
2 cups semisweet chocolate morsels
1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
1 cup chopped nuts

Instructions:

High on the Mountain Top

1. High on the mountain top
A banner is unfurled.
Ye nations, now look up;
It waves to all the world.
In Deseret’s sweet, peaceful land,
On Zion’s mount behold it stand!

2. For God remembers still
His promise made of old
That he on Zion’s hill
Truth’s standard would unfold!
Her light should there attract the gaze
Of all the world in latter days.

3. His house shall there be reared,
His glory to display,
And people shall be heard
In distant lands to say:
We’ll now go up and serve the Lord,
Obey his truth, and learn his word.

4. For there we shall be taught
The law that will go forth,
With truth and wisdom fraught,
To govern all the earth.
Forever there his ways we’ll tread,
And save ourselves with all our dead.

Lesson

*For All Family Members* Watch the video “By Small & Simple Things” below as a family. Brainstorm ideas of how each member of the family can share the gospel with those they come in contact with daily. Visit Mormon.org & watch  / view a few members Mormon.org profiles. Testify of the importance of missionary work.

• Brainstorm ideas of how each member of the family can share the gospel daily
• Visit Mormon.org – Browse the website as a family
• Testify of the importance of missionary work

*For Younger Children* Read or tell the story “Missionary Friend” (taken from the Sept 2012 Friend magazine). Share ideas that we can each do to be a missionary to those around us. Testify of the importance and simplicity of missionary work.

Alex asked his friend Jake to play at his house on Saturday. They were having fun with race cars when Jake noticed a picture hanging on the wall.

“Who’s that?” he asked, pointing to the picture of Thomas S. Monson.

“That’s President Monson,” Alex said.

Jake didn’t say anything.

“You know, the prophet of our Church,” Alex said.

Jake looked embarrassed. “We don’t go to church anymore,” he said.

“Why did you stop going?” Alex asked.

Jake shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“Do you want to come with me on Sunday?” Alex asked. “We could go to Primary together. My teacher is really great.”

Jake’s eyes brightened. “I’ll have to ask my mom, but I think she’ll let me go,” Jake said.

At lunchtime, Alex asked his mom, “Can Jake go to Primary with me tomorrow?”

“We have to check with Jake’s mother,” Mom said. “If she says yes, then of course he can go.”

Later that day, Jake’s mom came to pick him up.

“Can Jake go to Primary with me tomorrow?” Alex asked.

“Can I, Mom?” Jake said. “Alex says Primary is really great. They read stories, sing songs, and learn about people in the scriptures.”

“I don’t know,” Jake’s mom said, looking uncertain. “We haven’t been to church for a long time.”

“Please, Mom,” Jake said. “I want to go.”

“Jake is welcome to come with us,” Alex’s mom said.

“Are you sure you want to go?” Jake’s mom asked.

“I’m sure!” Jake said.

“Then I guess it’s OK,” Jake’s mom said.

Jake gave his mom a quick hug. “Thanks,” he said.

On Sunday morning, Alex’s family picked up Jake. He was dressed in his Sunday clothes. After sacrament meeting the boys went to Primary. When they got to class, their teacher said, “We’re so glad to have you here, Jake.”

After church, Alex’s family took Jake home.

“Thanks for taking me to church with you,” Jake said.

Alex’s mom smiled at him. “You’re welcome, Jake. We hope you’ll come with us again,” she said.

That evening at dinner, Alex asked, “Can I invite Jake to go to church with us next Sunday?”

Mom nodded. “I’m going to follow your example and invite his mother to go with us too,” she said.

“You’re a good missionary, Alex,” Dad said.

Alex was surprised. “I was just being a friend,” he said.

“That’s what a missionary is,” Mom said, “a friend.”

Share simple ideas of how we can be a missionary to those around us everyday.

Testify of the importance & simplicity of missionary work.

*For Teenagers or Adults* Watch the video below: “By Small & Simple Things“. Then read / share points from “Sharing the Gospel Through Social Media” (taken from the Sept 2012 New Era). Make a list of things family members can do with social media to share the gospel. Testify of the importance & simplicity of sharing the gospel.

 Sharing the Gospel Through Social Media

How many times have you heard how important it is to share the gospel? The prophets have taught “every member a missionary.” In the scriptures, the Lord declares that everyone should have the opportunity to hear the gospel: “For, verily, the sound must go forth from this place into all the world, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth—the gospel must be preached unto every [person]” (D&C 58:64).

“The uttermost parts of the earth” may sound huge, but reaching every person has become easier thanks to technology such as the Internet and social media. Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said, “We are blessed to be living in such an exciting gospel dispensation. God is inspiring the minds of great people to create inventions that further the work of the Lord in ways this world has never known.”¹

The Internet and social media allow free and fast communication, but it can be easy to forget that the Lord has given us these tools to share the gospel with people we know. Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has taught, “Today’s ‘manner of conversation’ seems to involve the Internet more and more. We encourage people, young and old, to use the Internet and the social media to reach out and share their religious beliefs.”²

To help you reach out and share your religious beliefs in this way, the Church created Mormon.org, a website for those interested in learning about the Church. There, Church members 14 years old and older can create an online profile, sharing their feelings about the gospel with the world. For step-by-step instructions, visit Mormon.org/create. Once you create your profile, you can share the link on blogs and social media pages.

Mormon.org is also a place where those not of our faith can learn more about our beliefs and our people and can even chat with full-time missionaries. If your non-LDS friends ever want to learn more, you can invite them to visit Mormon.org.

A more personal way to share the gospel and invite your friends to learn more is through social media. Mormon.org has pages on Facebook (facebook.com/mormon), YouTube (youtube.com/mormon), Google+ (gplus.to/mormon), and Twitter (twitter.com/mormonorg).³ On each of these social media sites, uplifting content about the gospel is posted (like videos, pictures, posts, and status updates). If your parents have given you permission to use these social media tools, you can share this content on your personal social media page.

On Facebook, YouTube, and Google+, you can leave comments on each post with your testimony, engage in online conversation with other users from around the world, and share the content on your own page. Sharing lets all your friends see the posts and learn more about the gospel. On Twitter, you can reply to posts and “retweet” them so others learn what you believe.

Be sure to add your own testimony when you share the Mormon.orgupdates, videos, pictures, and posts on your personal social media pages.

The Internet and social media are tools the Lord has given us to live His commandment that the gospel be taken to the “uttermost parts of the earth.” They make sharing the gospel so easy; anyone can do it. It’s never been easier for every member to be a missionary.

Make a list of things family members can do with social media to share the gospel.

Have each family member pick one thing from the list to do this week.

Testify of the simplicity & importance of sharing the gospel.

Treat

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars or Lemon Crisps

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

24 Servings

Ingredients

1 3/4 sticks salted butter, cut into pieces, plus more for greasing pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cup oats
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
One 10 to 12-ounce jar strawberry preserves

Instructions:

Repentance

Come Unto Jesus

1. Come unto Jesus, ye heavy laden,
Careworn and fainting, by sin oppressed.
He’ll safely guide you unto that haven
Where all who trust him may rest.

2. Come unto Jesus; He’ll ever heed you,
Though in the darkness you’ve gone astray.
His love will find you and gently lead you
From darkest night into day.

3. Come unto Jesus; He’ll surely hear you,
If you in meekness plead for his love.
Oh, know you not that angels are near you
From brightest mansions above?

4. Come unto Jesus from ev’ry nation,
From ev’ry land and isle of the sea.
Unto the high and lowly in station,
Ever he calls, “Come to me.”

Treat

Mini Cheesecake Tarts and Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie

Mini Cheesecake Tarts

Ingredients:

12 Nilla Wafer Cookies
2 8oz packages cream cheese
3/4 C sugar
2 Tbs flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1 Tbs fresh lemon juice
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
Foil cupcake liners