Sunday Lesson: Sun 27th

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland talk from our last general conference, Behold Thy Mother, is so powerful and thought provoking. Elder Holland said, "No love in morality comes closer to approximating the pure love of Jesus Christ than the selfless love a devoted mother has for her child."

When we read in the scriptures about our Savior and his atonement, we hear words like bear, borne, carry, deliver. "These are powerful, heartening messianic words. They convey help and hope for safe movement from where we are to where we need to be - but cannot get without assistance." These same words are used to describe the way we all entered into this world, through our own mothers. 

A young mother wrote to Elder Holland and describes her view on maternal love: "What kind of mortal love can make you feel, once you have a child, that your life is never, ever your own again? Maternal love has to be divine. There is no other explanation for it. What mothers do is an essential element of Christ's work."

Our teacher invited a few sisters to share their thought about the teaching of their own mothers. The experiences shared were powerful and emotional. One sister was so grateful for the example of love and dedication her mother showed when a terrible accident happened to her father. Another sister shared about the important role of grandmother her mother has given to her own children. 

Elder Holland teaches, ..."it is not only that they bear us, but they continue bearing with us. It is not only the prenatal carrying but the lifelong carrying that makes mothering such a staggering feat. Of course, there are heartbreaking exceptions, but most mothers know intuitively, instinctively that this is a sacred trust of the highest order."

There are most definitely challenges in motherhood. Our Savior knows about them and wants to help you through them. Elder Holland has said in a previous talk, "Rely on Him. Rely on Him heavily. Rely on Him forever. And 'press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope.' You are doing God's work. You are doing it wonderfully well. He is blessing you and He will bless you, even - no, especially - when your days and your nights may be the most challenging. Like the woman who anonymously, meekly, perhaps even with hesitation and some embarrassment, fought her way through the crowd just to touch the hem of the Master's garment, so Christ will say to the women who worry and wonder and sometimes weep over their responsibility as mothers, "Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole." And it will make your children whole as well."

Elder Holland concludes with these powerful words: "To all mothers in every circumstance, including those who struggle I say, 'Be peaceful. Believe in God and yourself. You are doing better than you think you are. In fact, you are saviors on Mount Zion, and like the Master you follow, your love never faileth."

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Sunday Lesson: Dec 20th

The last lesson of our Ezra Taft Benson manual was taught on December 20th; entitled A Christ-Centered Life. Our teacher first asked us to think of someone who is Christlike in your life. Many examples were given of people we know who live their life in close connection with our Savior. Pres. Benson said, "I testify to you that there is no greater, more thrilling, and more soul-ennobling challenge than to try to learn of Christ and walk in His steps. Our model, Jesus Christ, walked this earth as 'the Exemplar.' He is our Advocate with the Father. He worked out the great atoning sacrifice so we could have a fullness of joy and be exalted in accordance with His grace and our repentance and righteousness. He did all things perfectly and commands that we be perfect even as He and His Father are perfect."

We should ask ourselves, "What would Jesus do? or What would He have me do?" Walking in His way is the greatest achievement of life. However, Pres. Benson reminds us that we can only do this with the Savior's help. He said, "I know the Lord lives. I know that He loves us. I know that apart from Him no one can succeed, but as a partner with Him no one can fail. I know that God can make a lot more out of our lives than we can." In John 14:5-6 Christ says, "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

Perhaps the most important way we can become more like Christ is through our thoughts. In Doctrine and Covenants 6:36 it says, "Look unto me in every thought." Looking unto the Lord in every thought is the only possible way we can be the manner of men and women we ought to be. Pres. Benson teaches, "If thoughts make us what we are, and we are to be like Christ, then we must think Christlike thoughts. Let me repeat tha: If thoughts make us what we are, and we are to be like Christ, we must think Christlike thoughts." If our thoughts are centered on Christ, our actions will be too.

"To be like the Savior - what a challenge for any person! He is a member of the Godhead. His is the Savior and Redeemer. He was perfect in every aspect of His life. There was no flaw nor failing in Him. Is it possible for us . . . to be even as He is? The answer is yes. Not only can we, but that is our charge, our responsibility. He would not give us that commandment if He did not mean for us to do it."

In 2 Peter 1:5-7 the apostle Peter teaches us the process whereby we can become as our Savior. "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity." These virtues are part of the Savior's character. These are the virtues we are to emulate if we want to be more like our Savior. 

Pres. Benson gives us his testimony; "The Savior declared that life eternal is to know the only true God and His Son Jesus Christ (John 17:3). If this is true, and I bear you my solemn witness that it is true, then we must ask how we come to know God. The process of adding one godly attribute to another, as described by Peter, becomes the key to gaining this knowledge that leads to eternal life. Note Peter's promise, which immediately follows the process described:

"For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:8).

Pres. Benson goes on..."I pray that these qualities and attributes of the Savior may abound in us so that when we stand at the Judgment and He asks each one of us, "What manner of man are you?" we can raise our heads in gratitude and joy and answer, "Even as thou art."

Sunday Lesson: Dec 6th

Listen to the following quotes and lets see if you know who the author is:

"Wonderful, glorious things are in store for you, if only you will believe, obey and endure." 

"It is impossible to stand upright when one plants his roots in the shifting sands of popular opinion and approval." 

"Men, take care not to make women weep, for God counts their tears." 

"What is most important almost always involves the people around us." 

"Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says, 'I'll try again tomorrow'." 

"The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, live it." 

"You can't be right by doing wrong, and you can't be wrong by doing right." 

"Be of good cheer, the future is as bright as your faith." 

"Our Heavenly Father loves you - each of you. That love never changes.....it is simply always there."

           All of these quotes come from our beloved prophet, Pres. Thomas S. Monson. 

* In What Ways Have Prophets guided God's children in the past?

In our Gospel Principles manual it teaches, "There have been prophets on the earth since the days of Adam. Experiences of these great men excite and inspire us. Moses, an Old Testament prophet, led thousands of his people out of Egypt and slavery to the promised land. He wrote the first five books of the Old Testament and recorded the Ten commandments. Nephi, a Book of Mormon prophet, journeyed from Jerusalem to the Americas 600 years before the birth of Christ. This great leader and colonizer gave us many important writings in the Book of Mormon. John the Baptist was chosen to prepare the world for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Through Joseph Smith, a latter-day prophet, the Lord restored the Church. Joseph Smith also translated the Book of Mormon while a young man."

* What have you learned from the lives and teachings of prophets?

* Why do we need a living prophet today?

"We have a prophet living on the earth today. This prophet is the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has the right to revelation for the entire Church. He holds "the keys of the kingdom," meaning that he has the authority to direct the entire Church and kingdom of God on earth, including the administration of priesthood ordinances. No person except the chosen prophet and President can receive God's will for the entire membership of the Church."

The following scriptures help us understand why a living prophet is so important:

Amos 3:7, D&C 1:4-7, 37-38. The Lord speaks to us through His prophets.

D&C 21;1, 4-7. The Lord promises great blessings to those who follow the prophet.

Sis. Carol F. McConkie, the first counselor in the Young Women's presidency has said, "Our Father in Heaven loves all of His children and desires that they know and understand His plan of happiness. Therefore, He calls prophets, those who have been ordained with power and authority to act in God’s name for the salvation of His children. They are messengers of righteousness, witnesses of Jesus Christ and the infinite power of His Atonement. They hold the keys of the kingdom of God on earth and authorize the performance of saving ordinances."

Concerning the living prophet, the Lord commands the people of His church: "Wherefore, meaning the church, thou shalt give heed unto all his words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith. For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name's glory." D&C 21: 4-6. This is an amazing promise to us that great blessing will come if we heed to and follow the counsel of the living prophet.

Pres. Wilford Woodruff said that a prophet will never be allowed to lead the Church astray:

"The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the program. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place."

* In what ways has the living prophet influenced the Church? (food storage, getting out of debt, etc.)

Think about the Proclamation to the Family. When Pres. Hinckley first read that in the General RS session in 1995, many of us may have thought, "Well of course the family is ordained of God!" That document has proved to be so important in our ever changing world. We surely could not have forseen it's importance 20 years ago.

* Where do we find the words of the living prophet? 

Recent conference talks. Do we listen to conference? Do we re-read or re-listen to their important words?

In January MaryKay Bashford will teach us from the two most recent conference talks by Pres. Monson. I challenge you to re-read his talks and be prepared for that lesson. My favorite part from Pres. Monson's talk Be an Example and a Light is this part: "May we be followers of Christ, examples of righteousness, thus becoming lights in the world." Does anyone else remember something that stood out to them from his most recent talks?

* What can we do to follow and sustain the living prophet?

Many people find it easy to believe in the prophets of the past. But it is much greater and important to believe in and follow the living prophet. We raise our hands to sustain the President of the Church as prophet, seer, and revelator. We should pray for our prophet. His burdens are heavy, and he needs to be strengthened by the prayers of the Saints. We should study His words.

We should follow his inspired teachings completely. We should not choose to follow part of his inspired counsel and discard that which is unpleasant or difficult. The Lord commanded us to follow the inspired teachings of His prophet. We read this scripture earlier, but here it is again. D&C 21: 4-5 "Thou shalt give heed unto all his [the prophets's] words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith."

RS MEETING: CHRISTMAS DINNER

Thursday, December 10th at 6:30

JOY IN THE LIGHT OF CHRIST
We have a special evening planned to help enjoy the spirit of the season. Dinner and dessert will all be provided, just come and enjoy wonderful food and program. Call a friend to come with you, all are welcome. We look forward to seeing all of you there!

December Newsletter

Presidency Message by Jan Welling
How is it that time keeps ticking by so fast? Thanksgiving has come and gone and Christmas Day will be here before we know it. I love hearing what everyone does during the holidays. I find myself searching out new ideas and different ways to make the holidays more meaningful for myself and my family. It puts a smile on my face when I hear my kids get excited about things that we have done in the past that they look forward to doing again. These traditions bring us together as a family. Traditions help us bond and have memories that last throughout the years.

What are some of your traditions? We all have them whether we recognize them or not. It might be hanging Christmas lights, making goodies for neighbors, gingerbread houses, or maybe caroling. Some traditions help us better focus on the reason for the season – Jesus Christ’s birth. One of our favorite Christmas traditions is focusing our scripture reading around Christ’s birth and life during the month of December. The kids also love getting together with their cousins and reenacting the nativity. I have to take a step back during the hustle and bustle and ask if the traditions we are creating are uplifting, bringing us closer to Christ, and inviting the Spirit into our lives.

Did you know traditions are important? They help provide something steady, reliable and safety in a confusing world. Not only at this time of year, but year round. Sister Cheryl Lant, former primary president asks, “How should we determine what our traditions will be? The scriptures give us a great pattern. In Mosiah 5:15 it states, ‘Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works.’ Our traditions of Sabbath day observance, family prayer, family scripture study, service activity in the Church, as well as patters of respect and loyalty in the home, will have a great effect on our children and our future. If our lives are based on the teachings of the scriptures and of latter-day prophets we cannot go wrong.”

I hope you enjoy this time of year and continue to find traditions that bring you closer to Christ, now and in the future. It is such a special time of year! Let us take a step back, slow down, keep our focus, and create traditions centered on Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas!



December Birthdays
1 Tammy Rose
9 Deanna Sumner
12 Amy Hafey
14 Mindy Cornelsen
14 Terry Maupin
15 Traci Goodwin
16 Loretta Wagner
17 Susan Schilling
18 Makayla Denton
19 Jessica Humrich
23 Lacee Hartvigen
31 Terisa Eshbaugh
31 Stephanie Hendrickson



Lesson Schedule – (Ezra Taft Benson)
Dec 6 Presidency Message by Lisa Lara
Dec 13 Stake Conference
Dec 20 #24 “A Christ-Centered Life”
Dec 27 “Behold Thy Mother” by Elder Holland



Upcoming Events
Dec 5 – Ward Christmas Party 4:15 Santa, 5:00 Play & Dinner
Dec 10 Relief Society Christmas Dinner 6:30 “Finding Joy in the Light of Christ”
Dec 12 Stake Conference Adult Session 7:00
Dec 13 Stake Conference 10:00
Dec 16 Ward Temple Day



Other Opportunities
Dec 15 Lunch Bunch at 11:00 am at Marty’s
Dec 16 Book group 7 pm at Marty’s they will discuss the book - “A Christmas Carol”
Thursdays 9:00 am playgroup (ask Jan)
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics

Sunday Lesson: Nov 22nd

Our teacher presented a wonderful lesson based on Pres. Uchtdorf's conference talk It works Wonderfully! Our teacher asked us the same question as Pres. Uchtdorf does, "Is the Gospel Working for You?" A way to know if we are on the right path to spiritual progression is to evaluate how things are working for us. We should ask ourselves these types of questions: 

Does my life have meaning? 

Do I believe in God? 

Do I believe that God knows and loves me.

Do I believe that God hears and answers my prayers?

Am I truly happy?

Are my efforts leading me to the highest spiritual goals and values in life?

Pres. Uchtdorf says, "I wonder if we as Church members might also benefit from asking ourselves from time to time: Is my experience in the Church working for me? Is it bringing me closer to Christ? Is it blessing me and my family with peace and joy as promised in the gospel?" Many members of the church will answer these questions very positively and say that all is working well for them in the Church. However, Pres. Uchtdorf recognized that this is not always the case. He says, " There are some who have a less-than fulfilling experience - who feel that their membership in the Church sometimes isn't quite what they had hoped for. This saddens me because I know firsthand how the gospel can invigorate and renew one's spirit - how it can fill our hearts with hope and our minds with light. I know for myself how the fruits of the gospel of Jesus Christ can transform lives from the ordinary and dreary to the extraordinary and sublime."

He suggests two ways that we can help the gospel work better for us. The first is to Simplify! "This beautiful gospel is so simple a child can grasp it, yet so profound and complex that it will take a lifetime - even an eternity - of study and discovery to fully understand it." Pres. Uchtdorf tells us, "We need to make a conscientious effort to devote our energy and time to the things that truly matter, while uplifting our fellowmen and building the kingdom of God." Wise Pres. Uchtdorf says, "Brothers and sisters, if you ever think that the gospel isn't working so well for you, I invite you to step back, look at your life from a higher plane, and simplify your approach to discipleship. Focus on the basic doctrines, principles, and applications of the gospel. I promise that God will guide and bless you on your path to a fulfilling life, and the gospel will definitely work for you."

His second way that the gospel can work better for us to to Start Where You Are. "Sometimes we feel discouraged because we are not 'more' of something - more spiritual, respected, intelligent, healthy, rich, friendly, or capable. Naturally, there is nothing wrong with wanting to improve. God created us to grow and progress . . . Satan, on the other hand, uses our weaknesses to the point that we are discouraged from even trying." Pres. Uchtdorf promises us, "God will take yu as you are at this very moment and begin to work with you. All you need is a willing heart, a desire to believe, and trust in the Lord." There are so many examples in the scriptures where God molded ordinary men to become great prophets and servants in His name. "If we look at ourselves only through our mortal eyes, we may not see ourselves as good enough. But our Heavenly Father sees us as who we truly are and who we can become. He sees us as His sons and daughters, as beings of eternal light with everlasting potential and with a divine destiny."

Perhaps the most important thing we can learn from Pres. Uchtdorf's talk is this phrase: "Exaltation is our goal; discipleship is our journey." Pres. Uchtdorf encourages us to exercise a little faith and discover that the gospel of Jesus Christ is indeed working in your life.

Sunday Lesson: Nov 15th

"The stakes and districts of Zion are symbolic of the holy places spoken of by the Lord where His Saints are to gather in the last days as a refuge from the storm." Our lesson this Sunday was Chp. 23 in our manual, Strengthen Thy Stakes. What is a stake in the organization of the church? It is a symbolic expression. Picture in your mind a great tent held up by cords extended to many stakes that are firmly secured in the ground. Many prophets likened latter-day Zion to a great tend encompassing the earth. That tent was supported by cords fastened to stakes. Pres. Benson explains to us that those stakes are various geographical organizations spread out over the earth. Israel is being gathered to the various stakes of Zion.

We learn that a stake has a least four purposes. 1) A stake is presided over by 3 high priests, the stake presidency, and supported by 12 men known as the high council. This is symbolic to the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. "The purpose of the stake is to unify and perfect the members who live in those boundaries by extending to them the Church programs, ordinances, and gospel instruction. 2) Members of stakes are to be models or standards of righteousness. We all can be examples to those around us right where we are. 3) Stakes are to be a defense by unifying themselves under local priesthood leaders and by doing their duty to keep their covenants. Pres. Benson teaches that if we keep our covenants they will become a protection to us from error and calamity. 4) The last purpose Pres. Benson teaches is that a stake is to be a refuge from the storm. A stake should be a safe place for us.

In D&C 68:25-26 it says, "Inasmuch as parents have children in Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized, 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. For this shall be the law unto the inhabitants of Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized." This is one of the major purposes of the stakes of Zion. They are organized to help parents teach their children the gospel and administer the ordinances of salvation. 

In the Lord's preface revelation to the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C 1:35) the Lord warned: "The day speedily cometh; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand, when peace shall be taken from the earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion." We can all see this coming to pass. "Never has his (Satan's) influence been so great, and only those who have taken the Holy Spirit as their guide - and followed counsel from priesthood leaders - will be spared from the havoc of his evil influence." In the next verse of scripture the Lord also states that He will have power over His Saints "and shall reign in their midst." The Lord does this as He works through His chosen servants and stake and ward authorities.

Pres. Benson teaches us that, "...stakes are to be the gathering spots for the Zion of today, and they need to be spiritual sanctuaries and to be self-sufficient in as many ways as possible. The stakes and districts of Zion are symbolic of the holy places spoken of by the Lord where His Saints are to gather in the last days as a refuge from the storm. You and your children will gather here....to generally improve yourselves and one another."

The prophet Nephi for saw our day when the Saints would be scattered in stakes all over the world. He saw the time when the Lord would extend His protection to them through His stakes. "And it came to pass the I, Nephi, beheld the power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb, and upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory." (1 Nephi 14:14)

If we follow our local priesthood leaders, our bishop and stake president, we will be protected and be a light to the world in the last days. Pres. Benson visited many stakes throughout the world. He commented, "I have sometimes said to my wife, as I returned from visiting the stakes, that I do not know exactly what heaven is going to be like, but I could ask nothing finer over there than to have the pleasure and joy of associating with the type of men and women I meet in the leadership of the stakes and wards of Zion and the missions of the earth."

Sunday Lesson: Nov 8th

Chapter 22 from our manual, Carrying the Gospel to the World was our RS lesson this past Sunday. Pres. Benson and his family were amazing examples of enthusiastic missionaries. He would get so excited hearing about young people serving missions. Pres. Benson counseled the youth, "Prepare now...prepare yourselves physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually." His love for mankind was at the heart of his dedication to share the gospel. He said, "Our Father's children need the gospel . . . . I know the Lord loves them, and as his humble servant I have a love in my heart for the teeming millions of this world." He also said, "I have tasted the joy of missionary work. There is no work in all the world that can bring an individual greater joy and happiness."

Our teacher asked us an important question: Why does the world need the gospel? Pres. Benson answered the question this way, "It is my conviction that the world needs, as it need no other thing, the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the people of the world want what the gospel will give, but they do not realize it. They want the anchor which the gospel provides, which gives them the answers to the problems that face them; that brings them a feeling of security and a feeling of inner peace. The gospel is the only answer to the problems of the world, my brothers and sisters." He also said, "The world is hungry for true religion, and we have it."

"The real purpose in sharing the gospel is to bring souls unto Christ, to teach and baptize our Heavenly Father's children so that we may rejoice with them." We all share the great responsibility of sharing the gospel. Now that we know how important it is to share the gospel with those around us, Pres. Benson encourages all of us, no matter what our age, to be missionaries. Young men and young women need to have a desire to serve a mission at a very young age. Pres. Benson teaches, "The home is the seedbed for the preparation of young men. And every young man should be prepared in his home to serve." Senior missionaries are also very important. They are able to share the gospel in so many unique ways. "Many older couples could serve missions. In so doing, they will find that a mission blesses their children, their grandchildren, and their great-grandchildren in a way that could not otherwise be done. It will set a great example for their posterity."

The most fruitful missionary work is done by members. Pres. Benson says, "Member-missionary work is one of the great keys to the individual growth of our members. It is my conviction that member-missionary work will raise the spirituality in any ward where applied." We are taught that, "The Lord expects us to be missionaries, to live the gospel - yes, wholly, and to help to build up His kingdom....The Lord will sustain members in their missionary responsibility if they just have the faith to try."

Full-time missionaries and member-missionaries alike, need to have a testimony of the Book of Mormon. It is "the greatest tool which God has given us to convert the world." We learn that, "The Book of Mormon is the great standard we are to use in our missionary work. It shows that Joseph Smith was a prophet. It contains the words of Christ, and its great mission is to bring men to Christ. All other things are secondary."

President Benson gives us four ways to be a successful missionary. First we must have the Spirit of the Lord. It is impossible to share the gospel without the Spirit guiding us. "It's the Spirit that counts. It is the Spirit that matters." Second we need to acquire humility. We need to be humble and full of love, which does not mean weakness or timidity or fear. We can be humble and also fearless. Third love the people. "Our hearts must go out to them in the pure love of the gospel, in a desire to lift them, to build them up, to point them to a higher, finer life and eventually to exaltation in the celestial kingdom of God."Fourth work diligently. "One of the greatest secrets of missionary work is work. If a missionary works, he will get the Spirit; if he gets the Spirit, he will teach by the Spirit; if he teaches by the Spirit, he will touch the hearts of the people, and he will be happy."

All of us, member missionaries and full-time missionaries alike can all learn from what Pres. Benson teaches. If we follow his guide, miracles will happen and more people will come to know and accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Sunday Lesson: Nov 1st

Our amazing RS president, Marty Rozeski, taught our lesson this past Sunday. She chose a lesson from our manual, Chp. 16 entitled The Elderly in the Church. A current poet, Alex Morrit, wrote: "Age is a seasoned trickster. To our parents, we will always be children. Within ourselves, the same yearning of both; the same aspirations of adolescence, will last a lifetime. Only to the young - blinded by our grey hair and slowing gait - do we appear old and increasingly beyond the pale." 

Most of what is found in the lesson is based on a Conference talk given by Pres. Benson following his 90th birthday. He expressed his personal connection to this topic by saying, "I hold special feelings for the elderly - for this marvelous group of men and women. I feel that in some measure I understand them, for I am one of them." Sis. Rozeski's challenge to us as we learn from this lesson is to ask ourselves the question, How can any of the prophet's counsel apply to me now, and as I prepare for the future?

Pres. Benson said, "The Lord knows and loves the elderly among His people. It has always been so, upon them he has bestowed many of His greatest responsibilities." There are many examples of when the Lord has blessed the elderly: Sarah, in her old age, bore Abraham; King Benjamin's greatest sermon was given when he was very elderly and nigh unto death; last conference, Elder Bednar related that in the 11 years he has been an apostle, the average age of the men he has served with is 77. 

Why does the Lord often ask the elder to shoulder such great responsibilities? Pres. Benson teaches, "He has needed the wisdom and experience of age, the inspired direction from those with long years of proven faithfulness to His gospel." French philosopher John Paul Sarte said, "The more sand that has escaped from the hourglass of life, the clearer we should see through it."

Pres. Benson suggests 8 areas in which we can make the most of our senior years (and this applies to all of us, no matter what our age). 

1) Work in the temple and attend often - there are now more temples on the earth, we need more people to work in them.

2) Collect and write family histories - often you are the only one that holds the history and memories of loved ones.

3) Become involved in missionary service - senior missionaries are often able to perform missionary service in ways that our younger missionaries cannot.

4) Provide leadership by building family togetherness - gather your families around you.

5) Accept and fulfill Church callings - Pres Benson said, "We need the counsel and influence of you who have walked the pathway of life. We need to hear of your successes and how you have risen above heartache, pain, or disappointment, having become stronger for experiencing them."

6) Plan for your financial future - avoid unnecessary debt, don't consign on financial notes, and always plan for the future.

7) Render Christlike service - The prophet Joseph Smith told us that we should "wear out our lives" in bringing to pass the Lord's purposes (D&C 123:13)

8) Stay physically fit, healthy, and active - Through keeping active both the mind and the body function better.

We are reminded that, "Sometimes there is for some of you feelings of uselessness and aloneness which can be almost overwhelming." Learning something new, an activity or skill, can help tremendously. Gabriel Garcia Marques, a Columbian novelist has said, "It's not true that people stop pursuing their dreams beacause they grow old, they grow old because they stop pursuing their dreams."

Service is such a wonderful way to overcoming lonliness. We learn from Pres. Benson: "The key to overcoming aloneness and a feeling of uselessness, for one who is physically able, is to step outside yourself by helping others who are truly needy. We promise those who will render this kind of service that, in some measure, you will be healed of the loss of loved ones or the dread of being alone. The way to feel better about your own situtation is to improve someone else's circumstances."

In the lesson Pres. Benson extended his love and concern to those who are ill and suffere pain. "Remember what Father Lehi said in blessing his son, Jacob, who had suffered at the hands of his older brothers Laman and Lemuel. 'Thou knows the greatness of God and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain.' (2 Nephi 2:2)" Living in thanksgiving daily and generating good thoughts will help take away that which is harmful and destructive. Always offer your prayers daily, and even hourly if needed. 

Families of the elderly need to give the love, care and attention that their family member deserves. We learn about 5 ways to do this: 1) Treat them with love, appreciation and concern for their happiness. 2) Try to understand their point of view. 3) Be forgiving of mistakes they have made. 4) Allow them freedom of choice and independence. 5) Include them in family activities - show your children how to honor. 

The beginning of the poem by Robert Browning is recognizable, but most don't know it all. "Grow old with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made. Our times are in His hand who saith, 'A whole I planned, youth shows but half; Trust God: See all, nor be afraid."

November Newsletter

Presidency Message by Marty Rozeski
It’s a beautiful autumn. I often tire of summer heat and winter cold, but autumn never seems quite long enough. It seems like a transitional season sliding from summer to winter. This transition is exciting. Change can be exciting and renewing. New projects pop into our minds, and the wrapping up of past projects becomes a priority.

We also have seasons in our lives. When we focus on the opportunities, not the limitations, of each season, we realize the truth of the Old Testament teaching: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” (Eccl. 3:1) Each season teaches us and prepares us to become the daughter our Father knows we can be. The season of being a nurtured child, can turn into an appreciation of family unity. The season of focusing on an education, can turn into an appreciation and search for constant learning opportunities. The season of learning from trusting children, can turn into a gratitude and respect for these sweet innocents. The season of hard work, can turn into an appreciation for an active life. The season of physical aches, can turn into a gratitude for our earthly temples.

Our lives are always changing, and each season of our lives brings change. This change can be exciting. Joy comes from discovering and appreciating the opportunities of each time period in our lives. Happiness doesn’t make us grateful. Gratitude makes us happy.

Latter-day Saint poet Emma Lou Thayne says, “whether a season has bought joy or sorrow," she has been “nurtured by all that comes along at any stage, in any time,” and she rejoices in “the absence of fear and the presence of faith.” She expresses this serenity in the following poem:

So Come Tomorrow

Security is not in knowing what will come nor if it will be bad or good.

It is a faith drawn taut with having learned and seen and done that says, Tomorrow, come.

November Birthdays
1 Kendra Mauger
4 Ashlee Irwin
5 Krysti Hampton
5 Kelley Witte
11 Contessa Hardman
11 President Michael Jones
12 Marianne Nance
16 Amber Graves
17 Jackie Tomaselli
19 Irene Hoycott
28 Karen Hamblin
29 Deanna Allred
29 Aridne Sorensen
29 Amy Wagner
30 Jeanette Morrison

Lesson Schedule – (Ezra Taft Benson)
Nov 1 Presidency Message by Marty Rozeski
Nov 8 #22 “Carrying the Gospel to the World” taught by Jenny Maxwell
Nov 15 #23 “Strengthen Thy Stakes” taught by Kay Bashford Uchtdorf taught by Mary Kay Bashford
Nov 29 Bishop’s Instruction

Upcoming Events
Nov 18 – Ward Temple Day
Dec 5 – Ward Christmas Party
4:15 Santa, 5:00 Dinner & play

Other Opportunities
Nov 8 Linger-Longer after church
Nov 10 Lunch Bunch at 11:00 am atBurger King (by Target)
Nov 11 Veterans Day (Thank you)
Nov 18 Book Club 7 pm Kendra Mauger’s “Moloka’i” by Alan Brennert
Nov 26 Thanksgiving
Thursdays 9:00 am playgroup (see Jan)
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics

Sunday Lesson: Oct 18th

This Sunday's lesson was on Chp. 21 from our Ezra Taft Benson Manual, Principles of Temporal and Spiritual Welfare. The Church first introduced a welfare program in 1936 when the world was struggling with the effects of the Great Depression. The program was called the Church Security Plan and it was established "to help people help themselves."

In Doctrine and Covenants 29:34 we are taught, "...all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal..." We live, however, in a material and temporal world. Pres. Benson teaches, "LEt us ever keep in mind that all material things are but a means to an end, that the end is spiritual, although the Lord is anxious and willing to bless his people temporally.

In the Church handbook we learn about the Church welfare program. Its stated purpose is "to set up, insofar as it might be possible, a system under which the curse of idleness would be done away with, the evils of a dole abolished, and independence, industry, thrift, and self-respect be once  more established amongst our people. Work is to be re-enthroned as the ruling principle of the lives of our Church membership." Pres. Benson further teaches us that, "The strength of the Church welfare program lies in every family following the inspired direction of the Church leaders to be self-sustaining through adequate preparation. God intends for his Saints to so prepare themselves "that the church [as the Lord has said] may stand independent above all other creatures beneath the celestial world." (D&C 78:14)

This is a gospel of work, which is the only way we can grow in godly attributes. We need to be willing to work. "Energetic, purposeful work leads to vigorous health, praiseworthy achievement, a clear conscience, and refreshing sleep. Work has always been a boon to man. May you have a wholesome respect for labor whether with head, heart, or hand. May you ever enjoy the satisfaction of honest toil."

The next step is to become self-reliant. How quickly would we all be paralyzed if transportation was suddenly stopped because of a natural disaster? Or if there was a war or depression? We need to learn how to grow a garden and harvest the food for our own support. Pres. Benson has said, "The revelation to produce and store food may be as essential to our temporal welfare today as boarding the ark was to the people in the days of Noah. . . .Plan to build up youf food supply just as you would a savings account. Save a little for storage each pay-check. Can or bottle fruit and vegetables from your gardens and orchards. Learn how to preserve food through drying and possibly freezing. Make storage a part of your budget. Store seeds and have sufficient tools on hand to do the job....We urge you to do this prayerfully and do it now."

Another way to become self-reliant is to save money and avoid debt. "Live within your own earnings. Put of portion of those earnings regularly into savings. Avoid unnecessary debt." We never know when some kind of crisis may come, whether it be sickness or loss of employment. We need to always be prepared for these kind of circumstances. President Benson warns us, "Do not leave yourself or your family unprotected against financial storms. Forgo luxuries, for the time being at least, to build up savings....Brothers and Sisters, peace and contentment come into our hearts when we live within our means. God grant us the wisdom and the faith to heed the inspired counsel of the priesthood to get out of debt, to live within our means, and to pay as we go."

The last way our teacher suggested that we stay on top of our spiritual and temporal welfare is to make service a priority in our lives. We need to be consistent in our tithing and generous in our fast offerings. If we focus our energies at times on others, our own situation will not seem so difficult. When we serve we can also help others learn how to help themselves. What a valuable lesson to learn!

Sunday Lesson: Oct 25th

Our lesson today came from the very recent conference talk by Elder Costa, That They Do Always Remember Him. Elder Costa says, "I love to study and ponder the life of Him who gave everything for me and for all of us." Our teacher asked us this question: How many times a day do you think of the Savior? Pres. Howard W. Hunter counseled, "We must know Christ better than we know Him; we must remember Him more often than we remember Him; we must serve Him more often than we serve Him." 

Our Savior should be at the forefront of our minds more than He actually is. Our prophet, Pres. Thomas S. Monson has said, "Prepare time for Him in our lives and room for Him in our hearts. In these busy days there are many who have time for golf, time for shopping, time for work, time for play - but no time for Christ."

Elder Costa give 15 things that we can meditate on to remember our Savior:

1) To remember His premortal life, when this beautiful planet was made by Him.

2) To remember His humble birth in a manger in Bethlehem of Judea.

3) To remember when, even as a 12-year-old-boy, He taught and preached to the doctors in the temple.

4) To remember when He went aside privately into a desert to prepare for His mortal ministry.

5) To remember when He was transfigured before His disciples.

6) To remember when He instituted the sacrament at the Last Supper with them.

7) To remember when He went to the Garden of Gethsemane and suffered so intensely for our sins, pains, disappointments, and illnesses that He bled from every pore.

8) To remember when, after so much suffering and severe pain, even yet in Gethsemane, He was betrayed with a kiss by one of the disciples whom He called a friend.

9) To remember when He was taken to Pilate and to Herod for trial.

10) To remember when He was humiliated, buffeted, spat upon, smitten, and scourged with a whip that tore His flesh.

11) To remember when a crown of thorns was brutally put upon His head.

12) To remember that He had to carry His own cross to Golgotha and that He was nailed to the cross there, suffereing every physical and spiritual pain.

13) To remember that at the corss, with his bowels full of charity, He looked at those who crucified Him and raised His eyes to heaven, pleading, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."

14) To remember when He, knowing He had fulfilled His mission of saving all mankind, gave up His spirit into the hand of His Father, our Father.

15) To remember His Resurrection, which ensures our own resurrection and the possibility to live beside Him for all eternity, depending on our choices.

When we simply remember the Savior in our lives so many things can happen. A mighty change can and will come into your life. We will be able to resisit temptation better. Remembering our Savior will bring about peace and joy. Lonliness will be replaced by peace and comfort when we remember Jesus. These are just a few of the ways our lives can be changed if we just remember our Savior more often.

Recently Pres. Monson shared this story: "Through the years, the offices I have occupied have been decorated with lovely paintings of peaceful and pastoral scenes However, there is one picture that alwyas hangs on the wall which I face when seated behind my desk. It is a constant reminder of Him whom I serve, for it is a picture of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When confronted with a vexing problem or a difficult decision, I always gaze at that picture of the Master and silently ask myself the question, "What would He have me do?" No longer does doubt linger, nor does indecision prevail. The way to go is clear, and the pathway before me beckons."

To help us remember our Savior more often our teacher gifted each of us a little card with a picture of the Savior and the words, "I will not forget thee. I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands." She asked us all to keep this small picture of the Savior in our wallets where we will see it on a daily basis. Our Savior always remembers us; He loves us and died for us. We can remember Him and all the love he has for each one of us.

Sunday Lesson: Oct 11th

The lesson this past week begun with us all learning of the importance that each individual is to God. When Pres. Benson was in a stake presidency in Idaho they were trying to select a man to become the Elder's quorum president in a struggling ward. Pres. Benson took a chance on this particular brother. He was not living the gospel as he should, but after a few visits and some accepted challenges, he accepted the call to be the Elder's quorum president. He later became a bishop and said, "I used to think I was happy, but I didn't know what real happiness was." Pres. Benson encourages us to reach out to members of the Church who "live apart from the Church and the influence of the Gospel."

We were able to watch a fun, yet powerful, video about reaching out to those who have strayed.

 

Just like in the video, Pres. Benson teaches us that Latter-day Saints who have strayed need real, heartfelt concern from true and loving shepards. There needs to be personal watchcare. "There must be real, heartfelt concern by a true and loving shepard, not just shallow concern." Pres. Benson pleads that we be heartfelt in our home and visiting teaching. "We urge you to give renewed emphasis to effective priesthood home teaching and effective Relief Society visiting teaching. Home teaching and visiting teaching are inspired programs. They are designed to reach each member of the Church each month, both the active and the less active. Please give home teaching and visiting teaching an increased emphasis."

We are reminded that the principles to activate souls do not change. These principles are:

1) The lost or less active must be found and contacted.

2) Loving concern must be demonstrated. They must feel of our love.

3) They must be taught the gospel. They must feel the power of the Holy Ghost through the teachers.
4) They mjust be included in our fellowship.

5) They must have meaningful Church responsibilities.

The Church "hath need of every member" (D&C 84:110), and every member has need of the gospel, the Church, and all its ordinances.

GENERAL CONFERENCE

Preparing for General Conference

Tomorrow General Conference begins. 

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Christine was struggling with one particular challenge, but when she heard President Uchtdorf speak at general conference, she made a commitment that would scare most of us.

October Newsletter

Presidency Message

The Optimist Creed 

Promise Yourself To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet. To make all your friends feel that there is something in them. To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best. To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own. To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future. To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile. To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others. To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

Love, Marty, Lisa, Jan, & Debbie

October Birthdays

2 Ann Miller

7 Kathleen Cernek

8 Colleen Riggs

12 Lisa Siegrist

12 Carol Thorpe

22 Nora Petty

25 Samantha Phillips

26 Aubrey Chevrier

27 Carol Petersen

27 Debbie Rolfson

28 Maddison Nelson

Lesson Schedule – (Ezra Taft Benson)

Oct 3&4 General Conference

Oct 11 #20 “Feed my Sheep” taught by Jenny 

Oct 18 #21 “Principles of Temporal & Spiritual Welfare” taught by Kay 

Oct 25 Conference talk taught by Mary Kay 

Upcoming Events

Oct 3 & 4 – General Conference

Oct 21 – Ward Temple Day

Other Opportunities

Oct 7 Project Night 7 pm at Quail Bldg

Oct 10 Road Show 5:00 pm Quail Bldg

Oct 11 Linger-Longer after church

Oct 13 Lunch Bunch at 11:00 am at Subway (64th)

Oct 17 Quail Building clean up 8:00 am

Oct 24 Halloween Party 6:00 pm

Thursdays 9:00 am playgroup (see Jan)

Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center

Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics