Friday, December 30, 2016
Monday, December 19, 2016
Sunday Lesson, Dec 18th
Following the Example of Jesus Christ
Our lesson in Relief Society today was on following the perfect example of our Savior, Jesus Christ. In President Hunter’s very first statement as President of the Church he invited members to give more attention to the example of Jesus Christ and to try to emulate His love, hope, and compassion. He said, “I pray that we might treat each other with more kindness, more courtesy, more humility and patience and forgiveness…” he continued that this is the way to encourage those around us to be better rather than being critical of each other.
Jesus Christ set the perfect example in every area of His life. The amazing thing we need to remember, though, is that He was capable of sinning and chose to remain true. “Had there been no possibility of his yielding to the enticement of Satan, there would have been no real test, no genuine victory in the result…he would have been stripped of his very agency.” This makes His perfect example even more meaningful!
Jesus’ example of interacting with others is powerful. When the woman with the issue of blood touched Him, He recognized her humility and faith. He stopped and sought her out and helped her know that her faith had made her whole. Similarly with the widow who cast in two mites to the treasury, Jesus recognized her faith and giving heart and taught, “she of her want did cast in all that she had…”. He recognized the good in others and helped others see it as well. President Hunter reminds us that Jesus’ life was focused on “reaching out in service to others.”
Jesus taught, “What manner of men ought ye to be? Even as I am” (3 Ne 27:27). No other man can make such a claim. From Him we learn to be patient and loving, no matter what; no matter what the people in our lives are choosing to do. President Hunter taught, “His sufferings on behalf of our sins, shortcomings, sorrows, and sickness should motivate us to similarly reach out in charity and compassion to those around us”.
Since we are blessed with a testimony of Jesus Christ, we must be committed to following His example and living His Gospel. We need to make sure we are making room for Him in our lives. President Hunter explains how to do this, “All that we do and say should be patterned after the example of the one sinless person to walk the earth, even the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Our lesson in Relief Society today was on following the perfect example of our Savior, Jesus Christ. In President Hunter’s very first statement as President of the Church he invited members to give more attention to the example of Jesus Christ and to try to emulate His love, hope, and compassion. He said, “I pray that we might treat each other with more kindness, more courtesy, more humility and patience and forgiveness…” he continued that this is the way to encourage those around us to be better rather than being critical of each other.
Jesus Christ set the perfect example in every area of His life. The amazing thing we need to remember, though, is that He was capable of sinning and chose to remain true. “Had there been no possibility of his yielding to the enticement of Satan, there would have been no real test, no genuine victory in the result…he would have been stripped of his very agency.” This makes His perfect example even more meaningful!
Jesus’ example of interacting with others is powerful. When the woman with the issue of blood touched Him, He recognized her humility and faith. He stopped and sought her out and helped her know that her faith had made her whole. Similarly with the widow who cast in two mites to the treasury, Jesus recognized her faith and giving heart and taught, “she of her want did cast in all that she had…”. He recognized the good in others and helped others see it as well. President Hunter reminds us that Jesus’ life was focused on “reaching out in service to others.”
Jesus taught, “What manner of men ought ye to be? Even as I am” (3 Ne 27:27). No other man can make such a claim. From Him we learn to be patient and loving, no matter what; no matter what the people in our lives are choosing to do. President Hunter taught, “His sufferings on behalf of our sins, shortcomings, sorrows, and sickness should motivate us to similarly reach out in charity and compassion to those around us”.
Since we are blessed with a testimony of Jesus Christ, we must be committed to following His example and living His Gospel. We need to make sure we are making room for Him in our lives. President Hunter explains how to do this, “All that we do and say should be patterned after the example of the one sinless person to walk the earth, even the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Monday, December 12, 2016
Life is Good
We are so blessed with all that our Heavenly Father gives us! His love for us is incomprehensible. This time of year can be especially wonderful if we think of Him and our Savior Jesus Christ often. Take time to look around you and see all the blessings, the little and the big ones. Show mercy and love to those around you as he does for you. There is a plan for you and everyone of His children. When you see others try to see them through His eyes. Remember that He is always there, you are never alone. You are loved!
Friday, December 9, 2016
THANK YOU!!
A HUGE THANK YOU TO THE RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING COMMITTEE FOR A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS DINNER!! ALSO, THANK YOU TO ALL WHO CAME AND PARTICIPATED! YOU ARE ALL WONDERFUL!
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Relief Society Christmas Dinner
We hope you will join us for our
HE IS THE GIFT
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8th AT 6:30 PM
QUAIL BUILDING
Please bring non-perishable food item(s) to
be donated to the Arvada Food Bank.
Pick up a friend on your way. See you there!
be donated to the Arvada Food Bank.
Pick up a friend on your way. See you there!
Monday, December 5, 2016
Sunday Lesson, Dec 4th
This week we discussed lesson #23 out of our manual. President
Hunter knew that the service
itself was important, not whether he received recognition. He understood
that every act of service is important in God’s eye, no matter how unheralded
or inconspicuous.
We started by reading Alma 48:17. Captain Moroni is given a great compliment. He was famous, powerful, and a remarkable man. He received much praise for his good deeds. Then in verse 19 we learn that even though Helaman and his brethren we not in the spotlight as much as Moroni, they were "no less serviceable". In other words Helaman was just as helpful and useful as Moroni.
Not all of us are going to be like Moroni, catching the
acclaim of our colleagues all day every day. Most of us will be quiet,
relatively unknown folks who come and go and do our work without fanfare. To
those of you who may find that {thought} lonely or frightening or just unspectacular,
I say, you are “no less serviceable” than the most spectacular of your
associates. You, too, are part of God’s army.
President Hunter also warns us that there can be a spiritual danger to those who misunderstand
the singularity of always being in the spotlight. They may come to covet the
notoriety and forget the significance of the service being done. It is nice to
be recognized and to be told that we are doing good, but we need to be careful.
A good gauge on the reason for our
service is to ask ourselves, Why do I
serve? The poem below can help us learn and know why we should serve no matter how seemingly small it may be.
“Father, where shall I work today?”
And my love flowed warm and free.
Then He pointed out a tiny spot
And said, “Tend that for me.”
I answered quickly, “Oh no; not that!
Why, no one would ever see,
No matter how well my work was done;
Not that little place for me.”
And the word He spoke, it was not stern;
He answered me tenderly:
“Ah, little one, search that heart of thine.
Art thou working for them or for me?
Nazareth was a little place,
And so was Galilee.”
When we understand why, we won’t be concerned about where we
serve.
We can feel joy in our service when we remember this scripture; Matthew 25:40 And the King shall
answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto
me.
Here is an idea to help as we try to find those who need us in some way. Think of a railroad crossing... STOP – LOOK – LISTEN
-
Stop as we
rush through life.
-
Look for
all the friendly, thoughtful, courteous things we can do and all the little
human needs we can fill.
-
Listen to
others and learn of their hopes and problems so that we will be able to
contribute in little ways to their success and happiness.
Serve and
grow, faithfully and quietly.
Jesus teaches us this in Matthew Chapter 6 during His Sermon on the Mount:
That thine alms may be in
secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
When we serve quietly we are following in our Saviors footsteps, we are serving Him, our Father sees what we do and blesses us abundantly. How wonderful is that?!
* Refer back to #LIGHTTHEWORLD video as well as In 25 Ways. Over 25 Days.
Sunday, December 4, 2016
2016 First Presidency Christmas Devotional
It is always a pleasure hearing from the First Presidency. We hope you will be able to watch the devotional this year. It is on Sunday, Dec 4th at 6pm MST. You can watch it live on LDS.org or the Mormon Channel. Happy Sunday to all! #HisDay
Friday, December 2, 2016
WARD CHRISTMAS PARTY
SATURDAY,
DECEMBER 3rd 5:45 PM AT THE ALKIRE BUILDING
(5:00
Santa Arrives with Dinner starting at 5:45)
RS MEETING: CHRISTMAS DINNER
“He is the GIFT”
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8TH AT 6:30 PM
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!
STAKE
CONFERENCE
SATURDAY,
DECEMBER 10TH ADULT SESSION AT 7:00 PM
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11TH AT 10:00 AM
LUNCH
BUNCH
TUESDAY,
DECEMBER 13TH AT 11:00 AM at Tam’s.
WARD TEMPLE DAY
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21st
BOOK
CLUB
WEDNESDAY,
JANUARTY 4TH AT 7:00 PM at Marty’s home.
We will be discussing “Cutting for Stone”by Abraham
Verghese.
Come even if you haven’t read it.
Thursday, December 1, 2016
25 Ways over 25 Days
We recently posted the newest video initiative that the church has put out for the 2016 Christmas season. You can watch it again or for the first time here. Along with the video they have made serving in the Savior's way even easier by giving a prompt for each day. These ideas and suggestions are the perfect way to spend the days leading up to Christmas, the day we celebrate his birth. Let us become closer to him by serving as he did. Click this link below to see how you can follow our Savior.
Follow Our Savior Jesus Christ. In 25 Ways. Over 25 Days.
December Newsletter
Presidency Message by Karen Schmidt
What is the reason for the joy, peace, and merriment of Christmas? For me it goes far beyond the parties and gift giving. I think a large part is the reminders all around us of God’s love and His gift to us in the giving of His Son to the world. President Monson said in a First Presidency Christmas Devotional in December 2011, “Because He came to earth, we have a perfect example to follow. As we strive to become more like Him, we will have joy and happiness in our lives and peace each day of the year. It is His example, which if followed, stirs within us more kindness and love, more respect and concern for others.”
In this busy time of the year we can forget to pause and think of the true meaning of Christmas. When we see the lights, let us take a moment to ponder the Light of the World. When we hear the Christmas hymns, let us take time to ponder that holy night when Jesus was born. When we ponder on the gift of love that was given to the world in the birth of Jesus Christ, it becomes easier to remember and receive God’s love into our lives and then to give love more abundantly to others.
President Monson said at the First Presidency Christmas Devotional in 2013, “It is my hope and prayer that we may not become so caught up in the pressures of the season that we place our emphasis on the wrong things and miss the simple joys of commemorating the birth of the Holy One of Bethlehem.”
Remembering Christ is what makes Christmas so special and makes it the most wonderful time of the year. I hope each of us will take time often during this season to ponder on the birth, ministry, and atonement of Jesus Christ that we might invite the Spirit to fill our hearts with warmth and peace.
Birthdays
8 Melissa Brown
8 Melanie Gappmayer
13 Rebecca Johnson
14 Mindy Cornelsen
14 Terry Maupin
15 Traci Goodwin
16 Loretta Wagner
17 Sue Schilling
19 Jessica Humrich
31 Stephanie Hendrickson
Lesson Schedule – (Howard W Hunter)
Dec 4 Presidency message by Jan Welling
Dec 11 Stake Conference
Dec 18 #24 “Following the Example of Jesus Christ”
Upcoming Events
Dec 3 Ward Christmas Party 5:45 dinner
Dec 4 First Presidency Christmas Devotional
Dec 8 Relief Society Meeting 6:30 pm
Dec 10 & 11 Stake Conference
Dec 21 Ward Temple Day
Dec 25 Christmas
Other Opportunities
Dec 1 Book Group 7 pm at Kendra’s “And the Mountains Echoed” by Khaled Hosseini
Dec 13 Lunch Bunch at 11:30 at Tam’s (6375 Simms)
Wednesdays 9 am Playgroup
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics
What is the reason for the joy, peace, and merriment of Christmas? For me it goes far beyond the parties and gift giving. I think a large part is the reminders all around us of God’s love and His gift to us in the giving of His Son to the world. President Monson said in a First Presidency Christmas Devotional in December 2011, “Because He came to earth, we have a perfect example to follow. As we strive to become more like Him, we will have joy and happiness in our lives and peace each day of the year. It is His example, which if followed, stirs within us more kindness and love, more respect and concern for others.”
In this busy time of the year we can forget to pause and think of the true meaning of Christmas. When we see the lights, let us take a moment to ponder the Light of the World. When we hear the Christmas hymns, let us take time to ponder that holy night when Jesus was born. When we ponder on the gift of love that was given to the world in the birth of Jesus Christ, it becomes easier to remember and receive God’s love into our lives and then to give love more abundantly to others.
President Monson said at the First Presidency Christmas Devotional in 2013, “It is my hope and prayer that we may not become so caught up in the pressures of the season that we place our emphasis on the wrong things and miss the simple joys of commemorating the birth of the Holy One of Bethlehem.”
Remembering Christ is what makes Christmas so special and makes it the most wonderful time of the year. I hope each of us will take time often during this season to ponder on the birth, ministry, and atonement of Jesus Christ that we might invite the Spirit to fill our hearts with warmth and peace.
Birthdays
8 Melissa Brown
8 Melanie Gappmayer
13 Rebecca Johnson
14 Mindy Cornelsen
14 Terry Maupin
15 Traci Goodwin
16 Loretta Wagner
17 Sue Schilling
19 Jessica Humrich
31 Stephanie Hendrickson
Lesson Schedule – (Howard W Hunter)
Dec 4 Presidency message by Jan Welling
Dec 11 Stake Conference
Dec 18 #24 “Following the Example of Jesus Christ”
Upcoming Events
Dec 3 Ward Christmas Party 5:45 dinner
Dec 4 First Presidency Christmas Devotional
Dec 8 Relief Society Meeting 6:30 pm
Dec 10 & 11 Stake Conference
Dec 21 Ward Temple Day
Dec 25 Christmas
Other Opportunities
Dec 1 Book Group 7 pm at Kendra’s “And the Mountains Echoed” by Khaled Hosseini
Dec 13 Lunch Bunch at 11:30 at Tam’s (6375 Simms)
Wednesdays 9 am Playgroup
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Sunday Lesson: Nov 27th
Our lesson in Relief Society this week came from two conference talks based on the plan of salvation. The plan of salvation, though simple, answers the questions that we at times wonder; where did I come from?, why am I here? and what will happen to me after death? The answers to these questions cannot be answered elsewhere. President Thomas S. Monson in his talk, “The Perfect Path to Happiness” shared that there are people throughout the world who recognize the truths of the Gospel and choose to change their lives because of it. They have come to know that the Gospel path will lead them safely back to live with God again.
President Monson said, “Essential to the plan is our Savior, Jesus Christ. Without His atoning sacrifice, all would be lost. It is not enough, however, merely to believe in Him and His mission. We need to work and learn, search and pray, repent and improve. We need to know God’s laws and live them. We need to receive His saving ordinances. Only by so doing will we obtain true, eternal happiness.
“We are blessed to have the truth…It is the one perfect path to peace and happiness both here and in the world to come.”
In President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s talk, “O How Great the Plan of Our God!” he shares how we need to be careful not to take for granted the Plan of Salvation. He said, “It seems to be human nature: as we become more familiar with something, even something miraculous and awe-inspiring, we lose our sense of awe and treat it as commonplace…
” In the Church of Jesus Christ, we have been given so much. We are surrounded by such an astonishing wealth of light and truth that I wonder if we truly appreciate what we have.”
President Uchtdorf invites us to think back to a time when we really knew we were a child of God and understood that the atonement was for us. It was a time of awe and gratitude. We need to keep these feelings alive and continue to look forward to church meetings and scripture study. We must not let ourselves become past feeling, for in time that will lead to a loss of testimony.
The teacher explained that if we are feeling less excited about Gospel learning and truths than we used to, we should practice being obedient, for often obedience brings the Spirit and brings those feelings of gratitude. We must beware of falling into carnal security as the Nephites did at times, thinking we don’t need God or the Gospel because we are self-sufficient. We need to make the effort and personal responsibility to feel the Spirit. As we do our part, we will show Heavenly Father that we are not taking the Gospel for granted.
In closing, President Uchtdorf invited each of us to consider what we can give Heavenly Father in return for all the Gospel blessings we receive. Our Father asks in return that we live the Gospel, trust the Spirit, and share the plan of happiness with others because of the love we have for them.
- Karen
President Monson said, “Essential to the plan is our Savior, Jesus Christ. Without His atoning sacrifice, all would be lost. It is not enough, however, merely to believe in Him and His mission. We need to work and learn, search and pray, repent and improve. We need to know God’s laws and live them. We need to receive His saving ordinances. Only by so doing will we obtain true, eternal happiness.
“We are blessed to have the truth…It is the one perfect path to peace and happiness both here and in the world to come.”
In President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s talk, “O How Great the Plan of Our God!” he shares how we need to be careful not to take for granted the Plan of Salvation. He said, “It seems to be human nature: as we become more familiar with something, even something miraculous and awe-inspiring, we lose our sense of awe and treat it as commonplace…
” In the Church of Jesus Christ, we have been given so much. We are surrounded by such an astonishing wealth of light and truth that I wonder if we truly appreciate what we have.”
President Uchtdorf invites us to think back to a time when we really knew we were a child of God and understood that the atonement was for us. It was a time of awe and gratitude. We need to keep these feelings alive and continue to look forward to church meetings and scripture study. We must not let ourselves become past feeling, for in time that will lead to a loss of testimony.
The teacher explained that if we are feeling less excited about Gospel learning and truths than we used to, we should practice being obedient, for often obedience brings the Spirit and brings those feelings of gratitude. We must beware of falling into carnal security as the Nephites did at times, thinking we don’t need God or the Gospel because we are self-sufficient. We need to make the effort and personal responsibility to feel the Spirit. As we do our part, we will show Heavenly Father that we are not taking the Gospel for granted.
In closing, President Uchtdorf invited each of us to consider what we can give Heavenly Father in return for all the Gospel blessings we receive. Our Father asks in return that we live the Gospel, trust the Spirit, and share the plan of happiness with others because of the love we have for them.
- Karen
Friday, November 25, 2016
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Monday, November 21, 2016
Sunday Lesson, Nov 20th
Our lesson this Sunday was on teaching the Gospel. The teacher began by reminding us that we must prepare ourselves and live the principles we teach for ourselves before we will be effective teachers. We know that we are instructed to teach by the Spirit. The teacher emphasized that this can only happen as we are more prepared; as we know the material and the scriptures and can respond according to that bank of knowledge. She highly encouraged each of us to us Preach My Gospel. It contains many helps for anyone who is teaching in any way.
The teacher also encouraged us to use a study journal. As we do, we will receive more revelation and show Heavenly Father that we value the scriptures and the revelation we receive as we study. We also need to make sure we go back and read the things that we have recorded, this is part of remembering insight we have gained and seeing the progress we have made.
President Hunter said that one of a teacher’s important jobs is to help students gain confidence in the scriptures. First, they need to gain confidence that Heavenly Father is speaking to them through the scriptures and come to believe that they can find answers to their problems through scripture study and prayer. Second, they need to learn to be comfortable navigating the scriptures and being able to find important scriptures and sermons. By gaining confidence in these ways we will use the scriptures in our personal lives effectively.
We gain more confidence in a scriptural knowledge by having a desire to study the scriptures. This comes by having faith that the scriptures will help us in our lives. When we don’t have much desire if we just study anyway we will feel the Spirit and see the results in our lives, helping us have more desire. We also gain more confidence by praying for help from the Holy Ghost. He will teach us all things that we need to know.
In summary, President Hunter said, “We have a great responsibility as [teachers] in the Church to make sure our own members, our own young people, do not fall into that unfortunate category of being blinded, of being good, fine, worthy young men and women who are kept from the truths of the scriptures because they do not know where to find those truths and because they do not possess confidence [in using] their standard works.”
As we teach by the Spirit, we will know how to help our students (this includes children, friends, anyone!) learn what they need to in order to gain and strengthen their testimonies and become comfortable in the scriptures. If we do not have the Spirit, we cannot teach what they will need to know. As we prepare and teach with the Spirit we will be effective in sharing what our students need to hear.
-Karen
The teacher also encouraged us to use a study journal. As we do, we will receive more revelation and show Heavenly Father that we value the scriptures and the revelation we receive as we study. We also need to make sure we go back and read the things that we have recorded, this is part of remembering insight we have gained and seeing the progress we have made.
President Hunter said that one of a teacher’s important jobs is to help students gain confidence in the scriptures. First, they need to gain confidence that Heavenly Father is speaking to them through the scriptures and come to believe that they can find answers to their problems through scripture study and prayer. Second, they need to learn to be comfortable navigating the scriptures and being able to find important scriptures and sermons. By gaining confidence in these ways we will use the scriptures in our personal lives effectively.
We gain more confidence in a scriptural knowledge by having a desire to study the scriptures. This comes by having faith that the scriptures will help us in our lives. When we don’t have much desire if we just study anyway we will feel the Spirit and see the results in our lives, helping us have more desire. We also gain more confidence by praying for help from the Holy Ghost. He will teach us all things that we need to know.
In summary, President Hunter said, “We have a great responsibility as [teachers] in the Church to make sure our own members, our own young people, do not fall into that unfortunate category of being blinded, of being good, fine, worthy young men and women who are kept from the truths of the scriptures because they do not know where to find those truths and because they do not possess confidence [in using] their standard works.”
As we teach by the Spirit, we will know how to help our students (this includes children, friends, anyone!) learn what they need to in order to gain and strengthen their testimonies and become comfortable in the scriptures. If we do not have the Spirit, we cannot teach what they will need to know. As we prepare and teach with the Spirit we will be effective in sharing what our students need to hear.
-Karen
Monday, November 14, 2016
Sunday Lesson, Nov 13th
The lesson today was on faith and testimony from the Howard W. Hunter manual. The teacher started by sharing the personal importance of this topic by sharing JS-Matthew 1:36 which talks of many, even the elect according to the covenant, being deceived in the last days. We need to build a strong testimony to help us remain on the right path and not be deceived.
President Hunter stated, “The supreme achievement of life is to find God and know that he lives.” We begin with a seed of faith and at first may not know the certainty of things, but as we continue to seek and ask we will eventually gain a sure knowledge.
The class then discussed some of the things that will change in our lives when we have faith in Jesus Christ. We will begin to see that everything; all of God’s creations follow God’s prearranged plan. We can have perfect confidence in all things being carried out according to that plan.
We also discussed how having faith gives us hope and perspective which helps us have peace and reduces stress in our lives when we go through hard times. We know that all things are in God’s hands and that it will be okay in the end. When we have faith we can see God’s hand in our lives and trust him during the good times and the hard times.
Finally we touched briefly on how to develop our faith into strong testimony. All things of value require effort on our part. Doubts will be resolved when we work hard to know the truth. President Hunter continued by explaining that when we have doubts, when they are approached with searching, prayer, and obedience to God’s commandments, our faith will “emerge from the conflict into a firmer, stronger, larger faith because of the struggle. They have gone from a simple, trusting faith, through doubt and conflict, into a solid substantial faith which ripens into testimony.” It is important for us to know for ourselves through experience and struggle.
President Hunter closed with his testimony that he knows of Christ’s reality as if he had seen him. We can also gain this powerful witness as we desire it and do the work to develop it. The teacher challenged each class member to have a lifelong goal of developing our faith and testimony in Jesus Christ and His Gospel so that we can receive eternal life.
- Karen
President Hunter stated, “The supreme achievement of life is to find God and know that he lives.” We begin with a seed of faith and at first may not know the certainty of things, but as we continue to seek and ask we will eventually gain a sure knowledge.
The class then discussed some of the things that will change in our lives when we have faith in Jesus Christ. We will begin to see that everything; all of God’s creations follow God’s prearranged plan. We can have perfect confidence in all things being carried out according to that plan.
We also discussed how having faith gives us hope and perspective which helps us have peace and reduces stress in our lives when we go through hard times. We know that all things are in God’s hands and that it will be okay in the end. When we have faith we can see God’s hand in our lives and trust him during the good times and the hard times.
Finally we touched briefly on how to develop our faith into strong testimony. All things of value require effort on our part. Doubts will be resolved when we work hard to know the truth. President Hunter continued by explaining that when we have doubts, when they are approached with searching, prayer, and obedience to God’s commandments, our faith will “emerge from the conflict into a firmer, stronger, larger faith because of the struggle. They have gone from a simple, trusting faith, through doubt and conflict, into a solid substantial faith which ripens into testimony.” It is important for us to know for ourselves through experience and struggle.
President Hunter closed with his testimony that he knows of Christ’s reality as if he had seen him. We can also gain this powerful witness as we desire it and do the work to develop it. The teacher challenged each class member to have a lifelong goal of developing our faith and testimony in Jesus Christ and His Gospel so that we can receive eternal life.
- Karen
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Sunday, November 6, 2016
During one of our recent Relief Society lessons a sister shared some words from one of these short video series. We appreciated her words and sharing it to help lift and encourage us all. All videos in the series are great! We hope you will take a few minutes to watch. Take time to feel the spirit speak to you and take these video messages into your lives in a way that will make a possitive change. Take courage to do what is right and have a great week! You are loved! :)
also found at mormon news room
Friday, November 4, 2016
November Activities
LUNCH
BUNCH
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH 11:30 – BURGER
KING (64TH
& Ward)
Everyone is invited – Each person pays for their
own.
WARD TEMPLE DAY -
WEDNESDAY 16TH
HAPPY THANKSGIVING –
THURSDAY 24TH
BOOK
GROUP
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1ST AT 7:00 PM –
Mauger’s house
WARD CHRISTMAS PARTY
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3RD at the ALKIRE BUILDING
SAVE THE DATE!
RELIEF
SOCIETY MEETING: CHRISTMAS DINNER
HE IS THE GIFT
Thursday, December 8th at 6:30 pm
Watch
for the EVITE to RSVP
*
Please bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Arvada Food Bank. *
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
November Newsletter
Presidency Message by Marty Rozeski
Gratitude makes us happy. President Thomas S. Monson said, “To express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven.”
We all want and need a touch of heaven in our hearts. How do we do this? We can start by asking, “How has God blessed me today?” The big things are obvious, but do we notice the little things as well? Right now I notice I am blessed with the warm sun shining through the window, the friendly far off sound of a train whistle, and the constant affection of my dog as he sits beside me. Gratitude is about the here and now. It is about being happy with what you have.
President Joseph F. Smith said, “The grateful man sees so much in the world to be thankful for, and with him the good outweighs the evil. Love overpowers jealousy, and light drives darkness out of his life.”
Challenge yourself to say, “thank-you” at least 10 times a day. Say, “thank-you” to your child, to a client, to your friend, to the store clerk, to your co-worker, to your spouse, to your Bishop, to your neighbor, to your parent, to your God.
“This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right, such as teachers who teach, ministers who minister, marriages that make it, parents who sacrifice, and friends who help. We can lift ourselves, and cultivate others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues.” Thomas S. Monson
Yes! Gratitude makes us happy!
Birthdays
1 Kendra Mauger
5 Krysti Hampton
5 Kelley Witte
8 Bridget McCoy
9 Rebecca Olivo
11 Contessa Hardman
12 Marianne Nance
14 Meesa Johnson
16 Amber Graves
17 Jackie Tomaselli
19 Irene Hoycott
28 Karen Hamblin
29 Deanna Allred
29 Ariadne Sorensen
29 Amy Wagner
Lesson Schedule – (Howard W Hunter)
Nov 6 Stake Conference Broadcast
Nov 13 #21 “Faith and Testimony”
Nov 20 #22 “Teaching the Gospel”
Nov 27 "The Perfect Path to Happiness" by Thomas S Monson AND "O How Great the Plan of Our God" by Deiter Uchtdorf
Upcoming Events
Nov 6 Stake Conference Broadcast
Nov 16 Ward Temple Day
Nov 20 Primary Sacrament Program
Nov 24 Thanksgiving
Other Opportunities
Nov 9 Lunch Bunch 11:30 Burger King (64th&Ward)
Wednesdays 9 am Playgroup
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics
Gratitude makes us happy. President Thomas S. Monson said, “To express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven.”
We all want and need a touch of heaven in our hearts. How do we do this? We can start by asking, “How has God blessed me today?” The big things are obvious, but do we notice the little things as well? Right now I notice I am blessed with the warm sun shining through the window, the friendly far off sound of a train whistle, and the constant affection of my dog as he sits beside me. Gratitude is about the here and now. It is about being happy with what you have.
President Joseph F. Smith said, “The grateful man sees so much in the world to be thankful for, and with him the good outweighs the evil. Love overpowers jealousy, and light drives darkness out of his life.”
Challenge yourself to say, “thank-you” at least 10 times a day. Say, “thank-you” to your child, to a client, to your friend, to the store clerk, to your co-worker, to your spouse, to your Bishop, to your neighbor, to your parent, to your God.
“This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right, such as teachers who teach, ministers who minister, marriages that make it, parents who sacrifice, and friends who help. We can lift ourselves, and cultivate others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues.” Thomas S. Monson
Yes! Gratitude makes us happy!
Birthdays
1 Kendra Mauger
5 Krysti Hampton
5 Kelley Witte
8 Bridget McCoy
9 Rebecca Olivo
11 Contessa Hardman
12 Marianne Nance
14 Meesa Johnson
16 Amber Graves
17 Jackie Tomaselli
19 Irene Hoycott
28 Karen Hamblin
29 Deanna Allred
29 Ariadne Sorensen
29 Amy Wagner
Lesson Schedule – (Howard W Hunter)
Nov 6 Stake Conference Broadcast
Nov 13 #21 “Faith and Testimony”
Nov 20 #22 “Teaching the Gospel”
Nov 27 "The Perfect Path to Happiness" by Thomas S Monson AND "O How Great the Plan of Our God" by Deiter Uchtdorf
Upcoming Events
Nov 6 Stake Conference Broadcast
Nov 16 Ward Temple Day
Nov 20 Primary Sacrament Program
Nov 24 Thanksgiving
Other Opportunities
Nov 9 Lunch Bunch 11:30 Burger King (64th&Ward)
Wednesdays 9 am Playgroup
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics
Monday, October 31, 2016
October 30th - 5th Sunday Recap
Today the Relief Society was combined with the men for a fifth Sunday lesson taught by Bishop Larson regarding the Law of the Fast.
Isaiah 58:6-10 gives lots of spiritual and physical blessings of the fast. We will have our burdens lifted even as we are able to lift some of the burdens of others by giving fast offerings to relieve the suffering of the poor. Perhaps one of the greatest blessings is in verse 9 of the same chapter, "Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am." The fast, simply put, it going 24 hours without food or drink, then giving a fast offering to help the poor and needy.
Spiritual Blessings of the Fast
Bishop Larson discussed that as a young missionary he learned that fasting is a way to overcome the natural man and prove we have the strength to overcome our weakness and addictions. He also learned that through fasting and prayer we can be filled with the Spirit and be a light to others.
Bishop Larson saw a great miracle come to pass while he was serving as a missionary in Italy. The area he was serving in needed more priesthood brethren to have a branch of their own. They met together at the start of a fast, united in prayer that they might find others to join with them to make this possible. Bishop Larson shared that work was often slow on his mission; he spent much of his time tracting and contacting on the street without much success. But the week following the special fast was different. On two different occasions, he and his companion were approached by a lady and asked to come give their respective families a lesson about Jesus Christ.Within a month, both of these two families were baptized into the Church and the Branch was able to be organized soon afterwards according to the prayers and faith of the members in the area. It was a miracle! Our Father hears and answers when we faithfully fast and pray.When we fast, we should be spiritually more in tune with the Spirit, this is why we have testimony Sunday associated with Fast Sunday.
Caring for the Needy
The Bishop had two members of the congregation share their experiences with receiving food and other help through the fast offerings of members of the church. One member said that they felt like they were part of a family beyond their own and that the ward loved them. He felt blessed through the sacrifices of others. The other member said that their family was usually such a mess but when their home teachers came she felt so much love and peace. She said the service of the home teachers and other ward members meet their spiritual and physical needs. It changed the course of generations through giving in this way and not giving up on her family. She said that because of the examples of those who served them she wanted to live the Gospel and always have the peace and love she felt because of interactions with ward members. We find out the needs in the ward through faithful home and visiting teachers who know the circumstances of those they look over. The welfare system is there to help in times of need and to lead to self-sufficiency. When we give more in fast offerings, we are proportionally strengthened spiritually.
The Bishop promised us that our lives will be blessed as we live the law of the fast. We will receive more blessings in return than those we have provided for others. Our Savior loves all of us and wants us to help each other physically and spiritually.
- Karen
Isaiah 58:6-10 gives lots of spiritual and physical blessings of the fast. We will have our burdens lifted even as we are able to lift some of the burdens of others by giving fast offerings to relieve the suffering of the poor. Perhaps one of the greatest blessings is in verse 9 of the same chapter, "Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am." The fast, simply put, it going 24 hours without food or drink, then giving a fast offering to help the poor and needy.
Spiritual Blessings of the Fast
Bishop Larson discussed that as a young missionary he learned that fasting is a way to overcome the natural man and prove we have the strength to overcome our weakness and addictions. He also learned that through fasting and prayer we can be filled with the Spirit and be a light to others.
Bishop Larson saw a great miracle come to pass while he was serving as a missionary in Italy. The area he was serving in needed more priesthood brethren to have a branch of their own. They met together at the start of a fast, united in prayer that they might find others to join with them to make this possible. Bishop Larson shared that work was often slow on his mission; he spent much of his time tracting and contacting on the street without much success. But the week following the special fast was different. On two different occasions, he and his companion were approached by a lady and asked to come give their respective families a lesson about Jesus Christ.Within a month, both of these two families were baptized into the Church and the Branch was able to be organized soon afterwards according to the prayers and faith of the members in the area. It was a miracle! Our Father hears and answers when we faithfully fast and pray.When we fast, we should be spiritually more in tune with the Spirit, this is why we have testimony Sunday associated with Fast Sunday.
Caring for the Needy
The Bishop had two members of the congregation share their experiences with receiving food and other help through the fast offerings of members of the church. One member said that they felt like they were part of a family beyond their own and that the ward loved them. He felt blessed through the sacrifices of others. The other member said that their family was usually such a mess but when their home teachers came she felt so much love and peace. She said the service of the home teachers and other ward members meet their spiritual and physical needs. It changed the course of generations through giving in this way and not giving up on her family. She said that because of the examples of those who served them she wanted to live the Gospel and always have the peace and love she felt because of interactions with ward members. We find out the needs in the ward through faithful home and visiting teachers who know the circumstances of those they look over. The welfare system is there to help in times of need and to lead to self-sufficiency. When we give more in fast offerings, we are proportionally strengthened spiritually.
The Bishop promised us that our lives will be blessed as we live the law of the fast. We will receive more blessings in return than those we have provided for others. Our Savior loves all of us and wants us to help each other physically and spiritually.
- Karen
Sunday, October 23, 2016
Sunday Lesson Oct 23rd
This week’s Teaching for our Times message was based on talks by two apostles during this past General Conference, Lest Thou Forget by Elder Ronald A. Rasband and To Whom Shall We Go, by Elder M. Russell Ballard. Both talks powerfully invited each of us at times of doubt and questioning to remember past spiritual experiences and to remember how much we have received though the blessings of the Gospel.
Elder Ballard began his address by quoting scriptures from the intercessory prayer, found in John 17:9, 11, 20-21.
“I pray for them … that they may be one, as we are. …
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.”
Our teacher powerfully reminded us that our Savior, Jesus Christ prays for ALL those who believe in Him…and that is each of us! When we are struggling or doubting we can remember that He has great and tender concern for us and wants us to continue on the path that will lead to joy.
During our Savior’s ministry, He had those who had once followed Him turn back and follow Him no more. His tender question, “will ye also go away?” (John 6:67) again reminds us of how much He wants us to follow the truth and be happy.
Time hasn’t changed that we all have challenges of the heart or the spirit. If there are times when we are wondering if we should turn back from the path of discipleship, we should do as Peter did in response to this question from the Savior. He responded with pure and very simple testimony in John 6:68–69,
“Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou has the words of eternal life.
“And we believe and are sure that thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
There have been and will be times when all of us are struggling and need our testimonies strengthened. It is important to never stop doing the things that will build our testimonies, but to also be open about times we had questions and whatwe did to find answers and find strength again so we can help others in their times of need.
The biggest thing that both Elders Rasband and Ballard pleaded with us to do in times of doubt or weakening of testimony is to remember. Remember spiritual experiences, tender mercies, and peace during difficult times. Remember when you first gained your testimony that what lead you to start the path of discipleship. Recording these experiences and having them in an accessible place can be very helpful during times of questioning.
Both of the Apostles reminded us that the effects of our spiritual decisions have an impact for years and generations to come for good or ill. They, and especially our Savior, want us to take the path that will lead to lasting peace and happiness, to remember our testimonies of the Gospel and stay true to them. They want us to know that questioning is a normal part of life and can be the motivation to seek our greater spiritual understanding and strength if we approach our doubts in the right way.
- Karen
Elder Ballard began his address by quoting scriptures from the intercessory prayer, found in John 17:9, 11, 20-21.
“I pray for them … that they may be one, as we are. …
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.”
Our teacher powerfully reminded us that our Savior, Jesus Christ prays for ALL those who believe in Him…and that is each of us! When we are struggling or doubting we can remember that He has great and tender concern for us and wants us to continue on the path that will lead to joy.
During our Savior’s ministry, He had those who had once followed Him turn back and follow Him no more. His tender question, “will ye also go away?” (John 6:67) again reminds us of how much He wants us to follow the truth and be happy.
Time hasn’t changed that we all have challenges of the heart or the spirit. If there are times when we are wondering if we should turn back from the path of discipleship, we should do as Peter did in response to this question from the Savior. He responded with pure and very simple testimony in John 6:68–69,
“Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou has the words of eternal life.
“And we believe and are sure that thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
There have been and will be times when all of us are struggling and need our testimonies strengthened. It is important to never stop doing the things that will build our testimonies, but to also be open about times we had questions and whatwe did to find answers and find strength again so we can help others in their times of need.
The biggest thing that both Elders Rasband and Ballard pleaded with us to do in times of doubt or weakening of testimony is to remember. Remember spiritual experiences, tender mercies, and peace during difficult times. Remember when you first gained your testimony that what lead you to start the path of discipleship. Recording these experiences and having them in an accessible place can be very helpful during times of questioning.
Both of the Apostles reminded us that the effects of our spiritual decisions have an impact for years and generations to come for good or ill. They, and especially our Savior, want us to take the path that will lead to lasting peace and happiness, to remember our testimonies of the Gospel and stay true to them. They want us to know that questioning is a normal part of life and can be the motivation to seek our greater spiritual understanding and strength if we approach our doubts in the right way.
- Karen
Friday, October 21, 2016
Fort Collin's Temple Dedication Weekend
We hope you were all able to participate in some part of the Temple Dedication last weekend. Congratulations to the youth, leaders, and others who were part of the wonderful Cultural Celebration. It was obvious many hours went into it and it turned out fabulous.
We were so blessed to have President Utchorf preside and dedicate the Fort Collin's Temple. It will be such a blessing to us and those around us to have another temple so close. Life is Good!
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, greets the crowd gathered for the cornerstone ceremony of the Fort Collins Colorado Temple on October 16, 2016.Photo by Marianne Holman Prescott. SEE HERE
Photo from Deseret News
We were so blessed to have President Utchorf preside and dedicate the Fort Collin's Temple. It will be such a blessing to us and those around us to have another temple so close. Life is Good!
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, greets the crowd gathered for the cornerstone ceremony of the Fort Collins Colorado Temple on October 16, 2016.
Photo from Deseret News
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Sunday Lesson, Oct 9th
Pres. Hunter said, "A successful life . . . requires commitment -- whole-souled, deeply held, eternally cherished commitment to the principles we know to be true in the commandments God has given." Our Commitment to God, Chapter 19 of the manual, was our RS lesson today.
Our Father in Heaven requires our total commitment, not just a contribution. Pres. Hunter talks about how contributions to the gospel of Jesus Christ are important, but "they do not constitute our full offering to God. Ultimately, what our Father in Heaven will require of us is more than a contribution; it is a total commitment, a complete devotion, all that we are and all that we can be." Pres. Hunter explains that this commitment is not just to the Church, but it is a commitment to God that can be seen in our behavior, our personal integrity, and our loyalty to home and family and community, as well as to the Church.
A perfect example of the commitment that Pres. Hunter is talking about can be found in the Old Testament regarding three young Israelites -- Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. These three young men refused to worship the golden idol that King Nebuchandnezzar had commanded all to worship. They were unwavering and did not hesitate to obey God, even when they knew it would cost them their lives. These three young men were committed to the principles they knew to be true in the commandments that God has given us.
Be committed to obeying the Lord regardless of what others decide to do. Again an example from the scriptures can be found when Joshua was directed to destroy the city of Jericho. Joshua carried out the instructions the Lord had given him. "His commitment was to complete obedience." The miracle of the falling of the walls of Jericho followed. In Joshua's farewell address after many years of being a military and spiritual leader, he told the Israelite's, "Choose you this day whom ye will serve; . . . but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Josh. 24:15) Joshua was basically telling his people that no matter the actions or decisions of others, he would not be altered in his commitment to the Lord. He was committed to obedience.
Decide now to choose the path of strict obedience. Obedience is often described as the first law of heaven and it is neccessary for us to be obedient in order for us to be saved. We need to decide now, not when opposition strikes, that we will be strictly obedient to God's commands and the covenants we have made. The scriptures are full of examples of those who react to God's commands in the appropriate way. Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah and Rachel all made the decision to follow the Lord and go and do what he had commanded them. Pres. Hunter urges us, "We should decide now, in the light of the morning, how we will act when the darkness of night and when the storms of temptation arrive."
Belief alone is not sufficient; we also need to do Heavenly Father's will. To say we have a testimony is one thing, but to act on that testimony and go out and serve those in need and be doers of the gospel is entirely different. Jesus tells us, "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matt. 7:21) Pres. Hunter tells us, "We can be religious in worship on the Sabbath day, and we can be religious in our duties on the other six days of the week."
"Living members" strive to have a total commitment. "We know that this is a true and living church institutionally, but am I a true and living member individually?" The following questions will help us analyze our own actions regarding our level of commitment: Am I deeply and fully dedicated to keeping the covenants I have made with the Lord? Am I totally committed to live the gospel and be a doer of the word and not a hearer only? Do I live my religion? Will I remain true? Do I stand firm against Satan's temptations?
Living members strive to have a total commitment. They recognize their duty to press forward. Living members give heed to the Spirit and constantly seek its direction. They put Christ first in their lives. Living members strengthen their brothers and sisters and are anxious to share their joy with others. They love one another and visit those who are sick and afflicted. The ultimate question is: Am I dedicated and committed, a true and living member? Blessings and joy will come to our lives if we strive to be fully committed to God and His Son.
Friday, October 7, 2016
Service Opportunity
We are currently collecting Refugee Baskets to donate. Please read on and bring your completed baskets to any member of the Relief Society Presidency by the end of November.
Thank you for being a part of providing a warm welcome to newly arrived refugees. Through the generosity and the thoughtfulness of this gift you remind refugees that there are people in their new community who want them to feel welcomed. Thank you!
The following are a list of items that can be included in the welcome basket. Baskets do not need to contain all of the items on this list. Bolded items are preferred items. You can purchase items new, pick items up at a thrift store (gently used), or gather items from your own home that you no longer need. Please no ripped, stained, soiled or broken items. You can spend as little or as much as you want on a welcome basket. It’s up to you! Please do not include food items or any additional items that are not on this list. Thank you!
Please place all items in a plastic storage container that contains a lid and is no bigger/larger than 20 quarts. Families need to be able to easily carry the basket home on the bus. Anything larger than this size is too hard to carry.
* Small Sewing Kit
* Plastic Food Storage container sets with lids (Ziploc/Rubbermaid/Tupperware)
* Silverware set
* Package of Safety Envelopes
* Booklet of Stamps
* Calendar
* Folders
* Small dry erase board (magnetic to attach to fridge) and dry erase markers
* Reusable Shopping Bags
* Flashlight with battery Combo Set
* AA batteries
* Small Beginner Tool Set
* Hot Pads for Kitchen
* Hard Plastic Cups (like Tupperware cups)
* Box of black tea
* Large Serving Utensils (large plastic spoons, wooden spoons etc)
* Tape
* Pens
* Notebooks
* Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
* Power Strip
* Plastic Water bottles (like the Nalgene’s)
* Lunch Totes
* Ice Packs for Lunch Coolers
* Drying Mat for dishes
* Travel Size Kleenex
* Scrubbing pads for kitchen (scotch bright)
* Coloring Books
* Crayons
* Simple English children’s books
* Sticker books
* Small Hot wheels
* English Flash Cards
* Kindergarten Age Activity Books (Basic English, Math or other fun books)
* Gum
* Bar Mop Towels
* Gift cards to places like Walmart, Target, King Soopers, Safeway, 711, Walgreens
* Booklet of Bus passes
* Hand Made card with a personal message from you. If you want to include a photo of you and your family this is as wonderful way to personalize this gift and for the refugee family who will be receiving it to know that these items are specifically from you.
Contact the LFS Volunteer and Church Relations Coordinator if you would like to drop off completed baby baskets at refugeevolunteer@lfsrm.org or 303.225.0199. Due to limited storage space only completed baskets can be collected. We appreciate your understanding!
Thank you for being a part of providing a warm welcome to newly arrived refugees. Through the generosity and the thoughtfulness of this gift you remind refugees that there are people in their new community who want them to feel welcomed. Thank you!
The following are a list of items that can be included in the welcome basket. Baskets do not need to contain all of the items on this list. Bolded items are preferred items. You can purchase items new, pick items up at a thrift store (gently used), or gather items from your own home that you no longer need. Please no ripped, stained, soiled or broken items. You can spend as little or as much as you want on a welcome basket. It’s up to you! Please do not include food items or any additional items that are not on this list. Thank you!
Please place all items in a plastic storage container that contains a lid and is no bigger/larger than 20 quarts. Families need to be able to easily carry the basket home on the bus. Anything larger than this size is too hard to carry.
* Small Sewing Kit
* Plastic Food Storage container sets with lids (Ziploc/Rubbermaid/Tupperware)
* Silverware set
* Package of Safety Envelopes
* Booklet of Stamps
* Calendar
* Folders
* Small dry erase board (magnetic to attach to fridge) and dry erase markers
* Reusable Shopping Bags
* Flashlight with battery Combo Set
* AA batteries
* Small Beginner Tool Set
* Hot Pads for Kitchen
* Hard Plastic Cups (like Tupperware cups)
* Box of black tea
* Large Serving Utensils (large plastic spoons, wooden spoons etc)
* Tape
* Pens
* Notebooks
* Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
* Power Strip
* Plastic Water bottles (like the Nalgene’s)
* Lunch Totes
* Ice Packs for Lunch Coolers
* Drying Mat for dishes
* Travel Size Kleenex
* Scrubbing pads for kitchen (scotch bright)
* Coloring Books
* Crayons
* Simple English children’s books
* Sticker books
* Small Hot wheels
* English Flash Cards
* Kindergarten Age Activity Books (Basic English, Math or other fun books)
* Gum
* Bar Mop Towels
* Gift cards to places like Walmart, Target, King Soopers, Safeway, 711, Walgreens
* Booklet of Bus passes
* Hand Made card with a personal message from you. If you want to include a photo of you and your family this is as wonderful way to personalize this gift and for the refugee family who will be receiving it to know that these items are specifically from you.
Contact the LFS Volunteer and Church Relations Coordinator if you would like to drop off completed baby baskets at refugeevolunteer@lfsrm.org or 303.225.0199. Due to limited storage space only completed baskets can be collected. We appreciate your understanding!
October 2016 General Conference Link
W hope you all enjoyed hearing from our church leaders as much as I did. What a blessing an a privilege to have a living prophet to lead and guide us. Such inspirational messages were given. Here is a link to listen to them again or for the first time. Take time to make notes, set goals, and make any changes necessary to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ more fully. Always remember you are a child of God, He loves you, and He has a plan for you!
October Newsletter
Presidency Message by Jan Welling
My heart has been so full of gratitude to all of you who serve selflessly daily. You serve in your families, your callings, within the community, and more. You serve humbly and quietly. As you serve you become an answer to prayers. With the recent service our ward did for those affected by the flood in Baton Rouge, Louisiana you all helped answer their prayers. To update you all on that, we collected and shipped over 400lbs of items to them at the end of August. The items ranged from clothes and shoes to bedding, kitchen items, school supplies, hygiene needs, toys, snacks, and more. Then again in September we sent 30 pillows, 40 bath towels, and adult size blankets. All thanks to your generous donations! This is just what I saw go out, but I hear from my sister-in-law that many of you sent things on your own too. You are wonderful examples to me. Thank you all!
Birthdays
2 Ann Miller
7 Kathleen Cernek
8 Colleen Riggs
12 Lisa Stringham
12 Carol Thorpe
22 Nora Petty
25 Samantha Phillips
26 Rachal McCown
27 Carol Petersen
27 Debbie Rolfson
28 Maddison Nelson
Lesson Schedule – (Howard W Hunter)
Oct 1&2 General Conference
Oct 9 #19 “Our Commitment to God” taught by Jenny Maxwell
Oct 16 Ft Collins Temple Dedication
Oct 23 Conference talk taught by Mary Kay Bashford
Oct 30 Bishop’s Instruction
Upcoming Events
Oct 1 & 2 General Conference
Oct 9 Fast Sunday
Oct 15 Cultural Celebration
Oct 16 Ft Collins Temple Dedication
Oct 19 Ward Temple Day
Oct 30 Fast Sunday
Nov 6 Stake Conference
Other Opportunities
Oct 11 Lunch Bunch at 11:30 (Subway)
Oct 15 Cultural Celebration
Oct 22 Primary Halloween Party
Oct 26 Book group 7pm at Melissa’s (13963 W 76th Lane) book “Left Neglected” by Lisa Genova
Wednesdays 9 am Playgroup
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics
My heart has been so full of gratitude to all of you who serve selflessly daily. You serve in your families, your callings, within the community, and more. You serve humbly and quietly. As you serve you become an answer to prayers. With the recent service our ward did for those affected by the flood in Baton Rouge, Louisiana you all helped answer their prayers. To update you all on that, we collected and shipped over 400lbs of items to them at the end of August. The items ranged from clothes and shoes to bedding, kitchen items, school supplies, hygiene needs, toys, snacks, and more. Then again in September we sent 30 pillows, 40 bath towels, and adult size blankets. All thanks to your generous donations! This is just what I saw go out, but I hear from my sister-in-law that many of you sent things on your own too. You are wonderful examples to me. Thank you all!
A note from Chelsea to you all from LA: “I just wanted to thank you again for all of the work you all have done. It has been such a bright spot to have been able to help in bringing relief to the people we know and love who are suffering. When I brought the Ross family their items they were overwhelmed. They thanked me profusely. I told them over and over that I was only the delivery person. When I brought the boxes and blankets to the Jenkins’ kids, you would have thought it was Christmas. I delivered backpacks full of supplies to the grandmother of Kennedy, Davin, and Brady. She was really touched and emotional as I gave her the things. I was also able to bring a box to a family who were all sleeping in hammocks with no blankets and the house was completely bare. You could see through the entry way and see through the whole house because all the walls are gone. The kids were really excited and all of them hugged us many times. If I had to pick an expression that is the common experience between all the people it would be how surprised they are that people in Colorado care and know about them. They are overwhelmed by the gifts but even more surprised that they would matter to people outside the community. Also, please tell them that when I met with the general authorities I did tell them we had help coming from a ward in Colorado.”Remember this scripture as you go about your day and know that your good works are appreciated by your Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Be it a smile to someone, letting someone cut in front of you, or something else, all acts of service and kindness matter. Mosiah 2:17 And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.
Birthdays
2 Ann Miller
7 Kathleen Cernek
8 Colleen Riggs
12 Lisa Stringham
12 Carol Thorpe
22 Nora Petty
25 Samantha Phillips
26 Rachal McCown
27 Carol Petersen
27 Debbie Rolfson
28 Maddison Nelson
Lesson Schedule – (Howard W Hunter)
Oct 1&2 General Conference
Oct 9 #19 “Our Commitment to God” taught by Jenny Maxwell
Oct 16 Ft Collins Temple Dedication
Oct 23 Conference talk taught by Mary Kay Bashford
Oct 30 Bishop’s Instruction
Upcoming Events
Oct 1 & 2 General Conference
Oct 9 Fast Sunday
Oct 15 Cultural Celebration
Oct 16 Ft Collins Temple Dedication
Oct 19 Ward Temple Day
Oct 30 Fast Sunday
Nov 6 Stake Conference
Other Opportunities
Oct 11 Lunch Bunch at 11:30 (Subway)
Oct 15 Cultural Celebration
Oct 22 Primary Halloween Party
Oct 26 Book group 7pm at Melissa’s (13963 W 76th Lane) book “Left Neglected” by Lisa Genova
Wednesdays 9 am Playgroup
Saturdays 8 am basketball Stake Center
Mon & Wed 9 am Aerobics
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Sunday Lesson, Sept 25th
Our last Teaching For our Times lesson from the April 2016 Conference was on Elder Dallin H. Oaks talk entitled, Opposition in All Things. Elder Oaks explains to us from the Family Proclamation to the World the purpose of mortal life...."to provide experiences needed to 'progress toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny as heirs of eternal life.'" We progress as we make choices. We are tested, and in order to be tested we must have agency to choose between alternatives. In order to have alternatives, there must be opposition. In 2 Nephi 2:11 and 15 the prophet Lehi tells us, "It must needs be, that there in an opposition in all things. If not so,. . . . . . righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad."
In the Garden of Eden Adam and Eve were in a state of stagnation. They were in a state of innocence, "doing no good, for they knew no sin" (2 Nephi 2:23). Opposition was necessary in the Garden of Eden. Agency and opposition were the key ingredients to our Father's plan. Satan wanted to fulfull our Father's plan without agency, choice, or opposition. "There would be no test, no failure, and no success. There would be no growth to attain the purpose the Father desired for His children." Satan wanted to gain the glory, honor and power for himself. Because of this he was cast down and 1/3 of the hosts of heaven followed him. Elder Oaks teaches us: "So it is that the evil one, who opposed and sought to destroy the Father's plan, actually facilitated it, because it is opposition that enables choice and it is the opportunity of making right choices that leads to the growth that is the purpose of the Father's plan."
Opposition is also the way that we experience growth in mortality. Lehi teaches us in 2 Nephi 2:24-25, "Behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things. Adam fell that men might be; and men are that they might have joy."
It is difficult to understand opposition, especially when it comes even when we are not sinning. None of us can escape opposition in this life. It is what permits us to grow toward what our Heavenly Father would have us become. Pres. Monson has explained, "We are all acquainted with other kinds of mortal opposition not caused by our personal sins, including illness, disability, and death. Some of you at times have cried out in your suffering, wondering why our Heavenly Father would allow you to go through whatever trials you are facing . . . Our mortal life, however, was never meant to be easy or consistently pleasant. Our Heavenly Father . . . . knows that we learn and grow and become refined through hard challenges, heartbreaking sorrows, and difficult choices. Each one of us experiences dark days when our loved ones pass away, painful times when our health is lost, feelings of being forsaken when those we love seem to have abandoned us. These and other trials present us with the real test of our ability to endure."
Elder Oaks illustrates to us the opposition of temptation by using the scriptures, the Book of Mormon to be exact. In 2 Nephi 28:20-24 it describes three methods the devil will use in the last days, the days we are living in now. "First, he will 'rage in the hearts of the children of men, and stir them up to anger against that which is good. Second, he will 'pacify, and lull [members] away into carnal security,' saying 'Zion prospereth, all is well'. Third, he will tell us 'there is no hell; and. . . . I am no devil, for there is none' and therefore there is no right and wrong. Because of this opposition, we are warned not to be 'at ease in Zion!'"
When we are feeling the heavy influence of opposition in our life, we need to remember our Savior, His atonement, and the promise of the Plan of Salvation if we stay true to the covenants we have made. Elder Oaks concludes his message by saying, "God rarely infringes on the agency of any of His children by intervening against some for the relief of others. But He does ease the burdens of our afflictions and strengthen us to bear them."
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Sunday Lesson: Sept 18th
We Believe in Being Honest, Chp. 18, was our lesson for Sept. 18th. Most of us were surprised to find out how much more honest we can be after our discussion in class. The Lord admonishes us to be honest. Some common examples of dishonesty include stealing, cheating, violating the Word of Wisdom, and even violation of traffic ordinances. One of the 10 commandments is, 'Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.' Pres. Hunter teaches us that, "Any untruth which tends to injure another in his goods, person, or character is against the spirit and letter of this law." If we covet something we are also being dishonest with ourselves. To covet means to desire, to long for, to crave that which belongs to another person. Pres. Hunter again teaches us: "The desire to acquire good things is not a violation, but the desire to take them away from another unlawfully is a wrong."
We cultivate honesty in the little, ordinary things of life. We must be honest in the little things, as well as the big. Just like a building which has to have a strong foundation, our character needs to have the same kind of foundation built upon the principle of honesty. There is no happiness in violation of the law, whether it be God's law or the laws of society.
We can serve God by being honest and fair in our personal and business dealings. Pres. Hunter reminds that the true principles of Christianity cannot be separate from business and our everyday affairs. What an amazing world we would be in if we were all 100% honest with one another. We would all "have perfect confidence in each other in personal and business dealings. There would not be ....distrust between labor and management. There would be integrity in public office and in government affairs, and nations would exist in peace rather than the turmoil we presently know in the world."
Integrity protects us from evil, helps us be successful, and will save our souls. We would all be better off if integrity were used and fully available to us. "It would make us successful here and save our souls hereafter." If we have integrity we are personally responsible to God in all we do. We can be protected by integrity by the temptations of evil that continually surround us.
True joy results from being honest with ourselves, with others, and with God. Pres. Hunter tells us that there are two great blessing from being honest; having the companionship of the Master and the Spirit of the Holy Ghost with us. If we violate the code of honesty, these blessings cannot be granted us. The Lord knows our innermost thoughts. He knows every deed we do. We need to do our best so that when we meet him someday we can be proud of our actions and know that we have done our best. "Blessed are they who are honest....Blessed are they who are obedient to the Lord."
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