Mormon Life - Young Women tag

“Finding Joy Now” – YW Lesson 6, Manual 1

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:10:00 -0700

source: feastuponthewordblog.org

Lesson 6‘s title instantly directed me to two talks by Pres. Uchtdorf and a scripture in Moses. Some of those who commented, here (on an older post, incidentally) and at Beginnings New, expressed some concern about last week’s lesson topic as being too focused on the future, and specifically on a future situation (mothering) that might not even happen for some of the young women in our classrooms. Perhaps this lesson is a subtle recognition of that fact: this week’s question is how do we have joy, now?

This situation is so well addressed by Pres. Uchtdorf’s image of the “Golden Ticket” in his talk Forget Me Not that I couldn’t write a post without quoting it:

Top Teen Gospel Questions (And Their Answers)

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:06:00 -0700

by John Hilton III and Anthony Sweat
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Teenagers constantly ask questions about the gospel. Why does it matter what I wear? Why can’t I date until I’m 16? How can I tell the difference between my own thoughts and feelings and inspired ones from the Holy Ghost? Here are some helpful answers to address some of the “whys.”

As religious educators, we get questions from youth all the time. When we set out to write our books WHY? and HOW? our purpose was to try and answer these types of questions that we have heard teens most frequently ask us. In this article we’ll share what we believe are some of the top questions teens ask about the gospel (and, of course, some answers too!).

Why does it matter what I wear?

While in the Amazon jungle, Anthony went fishing for piranhas with a native guide. All it took was putting some raw meat on a hook and dropping it in the water, and within moments the piranhas

came. It was amazing to see the powerful attraction that the raw meat had to bring in the piranhas.

So what do piranhas, hooks, and raw meat have to do with hemlines, midriffs, and modesty? A statement from the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet provides the connection. It teaches, “The way you dress is a reflection of what you are on the inside. Your dress and grooming send messages about you to others.”

The parable of the piranha serves to illustrate this very important point: What you cast out is what you catch. It’s true for fishing, and it’s true for our dress standards. Just as the meat sent a message to the piranhas, our dress and appearance send messages as well. If you don’t want to be surrounded by piranhas, don’t toss meat into the Amazon. Similarly, casting out our flesh through immodesty usually only attracts people who are interested in our flesh, while dressing modestly tends to attract those who are similarly modest and virtuous. The scriptures teach, “intelligence cleaveth unto intelligence; wisdom receiveth wisdom; truth embraceth truth; virtue loveth virtue; light cleaveth unto light” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:40).

Why can’t I date until I’m 16?

The most powerful reason why one should wait until 16 to date has to do with being sexually pure. The earlier a teenager begins to date, the more likely they are to engage in pre-marital sexual intercourse.

Researchers have studied the connection between when youth began dating and if they remained sexually pure through high school. In one study, results indicated that youth are up to 300 percent more likely to become sexually active in high school if they begin dating at age 15 instead of age 16. An additional study found that 80 percent of LDS youth who reported dating before 16 had become sexually involved enough to require a bishop’s help for repentance.

Furthermore, most youth are not physically or emotionally stable enough to begin dating in their early teens. Just listen to the fluctuation in a 14-year-old boy’s voice for an immediate example. Young teens are still figuring themselves out. Research has shown that teen brain development goes through a wave of change—including the ability to correctly interpret other people’s emotions and the ability to forecast the future consequences of decisions—beginning at age 12 and not completing until later in their teens. The early teen years are unstable enough without adding the emotional complexities that come from being involved with dating the opposite sex.

What is wrong with having a steady boyfriend/girlfriend?

Latter-day Saint prophets have consistently talked about the importance of not steady dating in high school. President Gordon B. Hinckley flatly said to teens, “Do not get involved in steady dating.” President Spencer W. Kimball said, “Early dating increases temptation. A vicious, destructive social pattern of early steady dating must be changed . . . the change of this one pattern of social activities of our youth would immediately eliminate a majority of the sins of our young folks.”

One reason why steady dating should be avoided is because steady dating leads to steady temptation. The more time a boy and girl spend with each other, the more emotionally attached they will become. The more emotionally attached they become, the more they want to express those emotions physically. One study of LDS youth found that of those who reported having a serious boyfriend or girlfriend, 93 percent had been involved with making out with their boyfriend or girlfriend. Simply stated, it is much harder for a youth to stay sexually pure when they spend a lot of time with somebody they are strongly attracted to.

Another reason why steady dating in high school should be avoided is that it limits the opportunities teenagers have to meet and date a variety of people. For example, a girl who is seriously dating a boy will usually not be asked out by other boys because they perceive she is already “taken,” limiting the number of young men she can get to know. Although a teenager might say, “I don’t need to date other people because I really only like this one person,” dating other people and getting to know a wide range of people only helps confirm that is true so that later, when the time does come for serious courting and marriage, he or she will make a better informed decision.

How far can I go with someone of the opposite sex and not sin?

There are at least two ways to answer this question.

Answer #1: Modern LDS prophets have given this clear standard: “Before marriage, do not do anything to arouse the powerful emotions that must be expressed only in marriage. Do not participate in passionate kissing, lie on top of another person, or touch the private, sacred parts of another person’s body, with or without clothing. Do not allow anyone to do that with you.” That is pretty plain.

Answer #2: The question “how far can you go and still not sin” is a terrible question! That question says, “Okay, there is a line of sin and I want to go right up to that line but still not cross it.” The problem is,

the closer you get to the line, the harder it is to stop. President Henry B. Eyring said, “The question that really matters is this: ‘How can I learn to sense even the beginning of sin and so repent early?’”

The question shouldn’t be “How far can I go,” but rather, “What standard can I set for myself to make sure I never get close to the line of sin?”

How can I tell if it’s my own feelings or the Holy Ghost?

This is perhaps the most commonly asked question by older teens. One key to remember is that inspired thoughts are usually confirmed by inspired feelings. Doctrine and Covenants 8:2 teaches that the Holy Ghost tells us in our mind and our heart; there is a connection there. When ideas come to our mind that are accompanied by powerful feelings in our heart from the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22–23), then it is usually an indicator that what we are thinking is right. This powerful connection to the heart is an indicator of inspired thoughts.

Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish between our own thoughts and those of the Holy Ghost. Our advice is that if you get a feeling to do something good, do it! It is only as we follow and act on impressions that we will come to learn how to distinguish between our own thoughts and the Holy Ghost.

Elder Richard G. Scott said we should move forward with what the prompting is. He said, “Most often what we have chosen to do is right. He will confirm the correctness of our choices His way. . . . If, in trust, we begin something which is not right, He will let us know before we have gone too far. We sense that help by recognizing troubled or uneasy feelings.”

How can I know when I’ve been forgiven?

Even if we’ve repented, most of us still remember our mistakes and sins and sometimes feel guilt over wrong decisions in the past. Our teenage years are usually when most of us begin to make serious mistakes, and therefore have our first real experiences with repentance. Many youth wonder

how they can know if they’ve been forgiven after they repent. Here are a few keys:

We feel peace of mind: For the Strength of Youth puts it this way: “When you do what is necessary to receive forgiveness . . . you will feel the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

The sin has lost its appeal: When King Benjamin’s people were moved to repentance they said “we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.” (Mosiah 5:2). They had lost their desire to commit sin.

We enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost and its fruits: President Henry B. Eyring taught, “Reception of the Holy Ghost is the cleansing agent as the Atonement purifies you. . . . That is a fact you can act on with confidence. . . . And when he is your companion, you can have confidence that the Atonement is working in your life.”

We are willing to forgive others: The Savior stated on multiple occasions that God will “forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us” (JST Matthew 6:13; see also D&C 64:10–11; Ephesians 4:32).

Although we know there are many more answers to these questions, the point is this: to most all gospel questions that youth have, there are good, logical, and doctrinal answers. We hope a few of these might help you as you answer the questions your teen asks of you.

Anthony Sweat and John Hilton III are professional religious educators for the LDS Church and regular speakers at Especially for Youth, Education Week, and Time Out for Women conferences. They are the co-authors of the best-selling books WHY? Powerful Answers and Practical Reasons for Living LDS Standards (click here to learn more) and HOW? Essential Skills for Living the Gospel (click here to learn more), as well as the WHY? DVD (click here to learn more), all published by Deseret Book.

Young Women Lesson 7: Homemaking

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:02:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "I believe it is by divine design that the role of motherhood emphasizes the nurturing and teaching of the next generation." - L. Tom Perry

Discussion Questions

• What kind of feeling do you want in your future home?

• What gifts and talents can help us contribute to a happy home now and in the future?

• What skills and attitudes do we need to further develop to have successful and happy homes?

Excerpt from "Mothers Teaching Children in the Home" by Elder L. Tom Perry, April 2010 General Conference:

I recently had the opportunity to travel with Elder Donald L. Hallstrom to visit five cities in the great central area of the United States. In each city we visited, we would hold a meeting with the full-time missionaries, followed by a meeting with the stake and ward leaders regarding missionary work. Between each of the two meetings, the stake Relief Society would prepare a light dinner for us to afford us time to meet with the stake presidents. When we reached Milwaukee, Wisconsin, two young families appealed to the Relief Society to let them prepare and serve the dinner. The two husbands manned the kitchen. The two mothers supervised the table arrangements and the serving of the food. Three young children handled the table setting and the serving of the food under the supervision of their mothers. This was an opportunity for the mothers to have a teaching opportunity with their children. It was very special to watch the children respond to every detail as they were taught by their mothers. They carried out their assignments completely and fully.

The experience caused me to reflect on the training I had received from my mother. Like the prophet Nephi and also like so many of you, I was born of goodly parents (see 1 Nephi 1:1).

One of my nieces recently shared with me four notebooks my mother had filled with notes as she prepared to teach her class in Relief Society. I would imagine these notebooks—and there are others I have not yet examined—represent hundreds of hours of preparation by my mother.

Mother was a great teacher who was diligent and thorough in her preparation. I have distinct memories of the days preceding her lessons. The dining room table would be covered with reference materials and the notes she was preparing for her lesson. There was so much material prepared that I’m sure only a small portion of it was ever used during the class, but I’m just as sure that none of her preparation was ever wasted. How can I be sure about this? As I flipped through the pages of her notebooks, it was as if I were hearing my mother teach me one more time. Again, there was too much in her notebooks on any single topic to ever share in a single class session, but what she didn’t use in her class she used to teach her children.

I believe it is even safe to say that while my mother was an enormously effective teacher among the sisters at Relief Society, her best teaching occurred with her children in the home.

To read the full talk, click here.

{LDS How} Youth Can Share the Gospel

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:03:00 -0700

by Mandy Slack
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: Teens are already self-conscious without adding the intimidation of trying to share the gospel. Want to learn a few simple steps for being a member missionary at your tender age? We're here to help.

I gave away a Book of Mormon for the first time in between science and history when I was in eighth grade. I’d like to say I did this just because I wanted to, but it was actually a requirement for Personal Progress. I chose to give the book to Heidi, my kindest and most religious friend (she went to church and a youth group every week). The creators of the Personal Progress program must have intended for me to make this a memorable, edifying experience, but, instead, I wrote a few lines in the cover of the book and handed it to Heidi during our passing period. I didn’t explain anything about the book, just said a few awkward words and went on to class. It wasn’t that I didn’t care, it was simply that sharing the gospel seemed scary to me.

While I doubt anybody out there is as awkward as I was (and probably still am), I imagine that some youth feel the same fear when they hear the word missionary coupled with the word work. We all know it’s something we need to do, but opening our mouths about the Church can seem daunting. Hopefully these ideas will help the fear dissipate and let the joy of missionary work kick in.

Share the gospel online

Admit it, you get on Facebook at least once a day. Why not share the gospel in between chatting with your friends and studying every picture of that cutie from your math class? Sharing the gospel through social media or other websites can be easy and unintimidating for you and your friends. The Church has made it easy to share the gospel online; all you have to do is click a button to get a video or article on your Facebook, Twitter, or blog. For more ideas of how to share the gospel online, check out these suggestions.

Invite your friends to activities

You may feel like it’s a big commitment to invite your friends who may not have been going to church their whole lives to sit through a three-hour, super spiritual meeting. That’s okay! Invite them to youth dances or fun mutual activities—these are still uplifting and a great way for them to get to know other Church members their age but not so churchy that either of you will have to feel awkward. All you’re doing is inviting a friend to hang out with you and some other friends. You can do that, right?

Invite your friends to your house more often

I realize this sounds super simple and not much like missionary work, but even if you don’t have the perfect family (no worries—none of us do!), your friends will probably feel something different at your house. They’ll start to wonder about little things your family does, like blessing the food or eating dinner together. They’ll notice how much the gospel is a part of your lives and may start asking questions about that picture of a white, many-spired building on the wall or a painting of Christ. Whenever there are non-LDS people around my family, I realize how much we talk about the Church and the gospel. This has led to some awesome missionary experiences for us.

Go out with the missionaries

Find out if the missionaries in your ward or stake are teaching youth and offer to go with them to a lesson. Their investigators will probably like to see that there are other youth interested in religion, and they’ll be more likely to come to church if they have a friend. You can let the missionaries know beforehand how much you want to speak. If you’re feeling a little insecure, you can just help answer a question or two (with an answer you’ve probably known since you were in Sunbeams). If you’re not so shy, this is also a great opportunity to share your testimony with someone who could really benefit from hearing it.

Wear a CTR ring or something else church related.

The majority of people that don’t belong to the Church probably have no clue what CTR stands for. If your ring is big enough, people will probably ask you about it once in awhile. In the commentary of “How to Share the Gospel,” an article featured on lds.org, one girl shares a missionary experience she had while wearing her Young Women medallion: someone asked her why she was wearing a necklace with the Disneyland Castle on it, and she had the opportunity to explain more about the “castle.”

Prepare answers for potential questions

You don’t have to be a gospel scholar to be a missionary, but it may help to make a list of questions your friends might ask, along with clear answers for each question. This will help you feel more confident when the Church comes up in conversation—you won’t have to hide behind your lunch and pretend you didn’t hear anything. For ideas of questions that your pals might have, read through these frequently asked questions at mormon.org/faq/.

Showing their light: Taking up challenge of the 2012 Mutual theme

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:45:00 -0700

source: ldschurchnews.com

Youth across the globe are meeting the challenge of the 2012 Mutual theme — "Arise and shine forth that thy light may be a standard for the nations" (Doctrine and Covenants 115:5) — by offering service to those in need. Such service also helps members of the Aaronic Priesthood realize the goals in the Duty to God Program.

Below are a few examples of young men and young women who are giving of themselves and "shining their light" to care for others.

Young Women Lesson 6: Finding Joy Now

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:02:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family." - Thomas S. Monson

Discussion Questions

• Many people seem to have a negative outlook on life. How can we avoid this attitude and help others look at things in a positive way?

• How does listening for and being aware of ideas or promptings from the Holy Ghost increase the potential for joy?

• How does trusting in our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ affect the joy we feel in our lives?

• How do obeying the commandments and keeping covenants increase our happiness and joy?

Excerpt from "Finding Joy in the Journey" by President Thomas S. Monson, October 2008 General Conference:

My dear brothers and sisters, I am humbled as I stand before you this morning. I ask for your faith and prayers in my behalf as I speak about those things which have been on my mind and which I have felt impressed to share with you.

I begin by mentioning one of the most inevitable aspects of our lives here upon the earth, and that is change. At one time or another we’ve all heard some form of the familiar adage: “Nothing is as constant as change.”

Throughout our lives, we must deal with change. Some changes are welcome; some are not. There are changes in our lives which are sudden, such as the unexpected passing of a loved one, an unforeseen illness, the loss of a possession we treasure. But most of the changes take place subtly and slowly.

This conference marks 45 years since I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. As the junior member of the Twelve then, I looked up to 14 exceptional men, who were senior to me in the Twelve and the First Presidency. One by one, each of these men has returned home. When President Hinckley passed away eight months ago, I realized that I had become the senior Apostle. The changes over a period of 45 years that were incremental now seem monumental.

To read the full talk, click here.

Young Women Lesson 5: Finding Joy in Our Divine Potential

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:03:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "There is no more beautiful sight than a young woman who glows with the light of the Spirit, who is confident and courageous because she is virtuous." -Elaine S. Dalton

Discussion Questions

• How would you explain the concept of “divine potential” to a friend?

• How can the knowledge of our divine potential help us find happiness?

• How can we gain confidence in taking on the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood?

• How can our experiences on this earth prepare us to achieve our divine potential in the next life?

Excerpt from "Remember Who You Are!" by Sister Elaine S. Dalton, May 2010 General Conference:

We are daughters of our Heavenly Father. He loves us, and we love Him. 1 I am humbled and grateful to be in your presence. The Lord has blessed me with a very clear understanding of who you are and why you are here on the earth at this time. The Lord loves you, and I know you love Him. It shows in your countenance, in your modesty, in your desire to choose the right, and in your commitment to remain virtuous and pure.

Together we have shared many choice spiritual moments. We have borne testimony in camps around campfires, in chapels, and in firesides. We have been warmed by the fire of our faith. We have climbed mountains and unfurled golden banners—from Brazil to Bountiful—signifying the commitment deep within our hearts to remain virtuous and to always be worthy to enter the temple. We have prayed, read the Book of Mormon, and smiled every day, and together with our mothers, grandmothers, and leaders, we are working on our Personal Progress. And we have only just begun!

This is a magnificent time to be on the earth and to be a young woman. Our vision remains the same. It is to be worthy to make and keep sacred covenants and receive the ordinances of the temple. This is our superlative goal! And so we will continue to lead the world in a return to virtue—a return to chastity and moral purity. We will continue to do all we can to help each other “stand … in holy places” 2 and receive, recognize, and rely on the Holy Ghost.

We will continue to talk of Christ, to rejoice in Christ, that each of us will know to what source we may look for a remission of our sins. 3 And yes, we will continue to stand firm no matter what storms may rage around us because we know and testify that “it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that [we] must build [our] foundation … , a foundation whereon if [we] build [we] cannot fall.”

To read the full talk, click here.

Young Women Lesson 4: Seeking Companionship of the Holy Ghost

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:04:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "These four words—'Receive the Holy Ghost'—are not a passive pronouncement; rather, they constitute a priesthood injunction—an authoritative admonition to act and not simply to be acted upon." -David A. Bednar

Discussion Questions

• How do we feel impressions from the Holy Ghost? Do all people feel promptings and impressions in the same way?

• How can we qualify for the companionship, guidance, and protection of the Holy Ghost each day?

Excerpt from "Receive the Holy Ghost" Elder David A. Bednar, October 2010 General Conference:

My message focuses on the importance of striving in our daily lives to actually receive the Holy Ghost. I pray for and invite the Spirit of the Lord to instruct and edify each of us.

The Gift of the Holy Ghost

In December of 1839, while in Washington, D.C., to seek redress for the wrongs done to the Missouri Saints, Joseph Smith and Elias Higbee wrote to Hyrum Smith: “In our interview with the President [of the United States], he interrogated us wherein we differed in our religion from the other religions of the day. Brother Joseph said we differed in mode of baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. We considered that all other considerations were contained in the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 97).

The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead; He is a personage of spirit and bears witness of all truth. In the scriptures the Holy Ghost is referred to as the Comforter (see John 14:16–27; Moroni 8:26), a teacher (see John 14:26; D&C 50:14), and a revelator (see 2 Nephi 32:5). Revelations from the Father and the Son are conveyed through the Holy Ghost. He is the messenger for and the witness of the Father and the Son.

The Holy Ghost is manifested to men and women on the earth both as the power and as the gift of the Holy Ghost. The power can come upon a person before baptism; it is the convincing witness that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. Through the power of the Holy Ghost, sincere investigators can acquire a conviction of the truthfulness of the Savior’s gospel, of the Book of Mormon, of the reality of the Restoration, and of the prophetic calling of Joseph Smith.

The gift of the Holy Ghost is bestowed only after proper and authorized baptism and by the laying on of hands by those holding the Melchizedek Priesthood.

To read the full talk, click here.

Dallas temple walk

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:21:00 -0700

source: ldschurchnews.com

As 27 young women set out at 4:30 a.m. to walk from their meetinghouse to the Dallas Texas Temple, leaders were sure the energy and enthusiasm of the goal would wear off.

Instead, the young women embarking on their 18.1-mile walk to get to the temple, practically "ran to the temple," said Janice Aoyama, second counselor in the Frisco Texas Stake Young Women presidency.

Teaching Modesty: A YM Leader’s Perspective

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:50:00 -0700

source: feministmormonhousewives.org

Mormon Life says: I like this quote from the article: "Young people are going to make mistakes, and it is the responsibility of adults to act like adults and not do the Full Freakout when the kids occasionally get it wrong, as they inevitably will." For most of my adult life, I’ve had callings in the Young Men’s organization. Scouts, church sports, campouts, EFY, youth conference, you name it, I’ve been there and done that, and I have the scars to prove it. Young men struggle in many ways, including in the way they dress, but we usually don’t think of them as being immodest.

Arise and shine forth: 2012 Mutual theme is 'a call to leadership'

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:45:00 -0700

source: ldschurchnews.com

The 2012 Mutual theme is a call to leadership, said Sister Elaine S. Dalton, Young Women general president.

The theme — "Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations" (Doctrine and Covenants 115:5) — comes from a revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith at Far West, Mo., in 1838.

Young Women Lesson 3: Following the Example of Jesus Christ

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 00:04:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "We rejoice in all the Savior has done for us. He has made it possible for each of us to gain our salvation and exaltation." -Quentin L. Cook

Discussion Questions

• As we partake of the sacrament every Sunday we are reminded to follow the example of Jesus Christ, but it is sometimes easy to become distracted by worldly influences throughout the week. What can we do to follow Christ’s example all week long?

• In what specific ways can we follow the example of Jesus Christ when we are at home and with our families?

• What can we do to influence our friends, family, and others to better follow the Savior’s example?

Excerpt from "Act in All Diligence" Elder Quentin L. Cook, April 2010 General Conference:

It is a significant responsibility to speak on Easter Sunday to Latter-day Saints across the world, who love our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We celebrate this morning His victory over death. We cherish our understanding and feel heartfelt appreciation for the Savior’s willing atoning sacrifice on our behalf. His acquiescence to the will of His Father won the supernal victory over death and is the transcendent event in the history of mankind. I appreciate this opportunity to speak about following the Savior.

The final two days of the Savior’s mortal ministry prior to His Crucifixion are profoundly important and in some ways beyond comprehension. So much of what is essential to our eternal destiny occurred on Thursday and then Friday, the day Christ was crucified. The Last Supper, a Passover supper, the “established memorial of Israel’s deliverance from bondage,” was commenced Thursday evening. 1 Ordinances and doctrines of great importance were initiated at the Last Supper. I will mention just three. First, the Savior introduced the ordinance of the sacrament. He took bread, broke it, prayed over it, and passed it to His disciples, saying, “This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.” 2 In this manner He instituted the sacrament. Second, His overwhelming emphasis was on doctrines teaching love as a preeminent principle. He taught, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” 3 Third, through Christ’s intercession or direction, “the Holy Ghost was promised to the apostles” as another Comforter. 4

The Savior subsequently accomplished the Atonement. He took upon Himself the “burden of the sins of mankind” and the “horrors that Satan … could inflict.” 5 In this process He endured the fraudulently concocted trials and the terrible, tragic events leading to His Crucifixion. This ultimately culminated in Christ’s triumphant Resurrection on Easter Sunday. Christ fulfilled His sacred mission as Savior and Redeemer. We will be resurrected from death and have our spirits reunited with our bodies. Based on personal worthiness, we may through His grace have the glorious opportunity of entering back into the presence of God. 6

The Prophet Joseph Smith, speaking of these Easter events, said, “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.” 7

To read the full talk, click here.

Media for 2012 Mutual Theme

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 13:03:00 -0700

source: ldsmediatalk.com

Media is now available online for the Young Women and Aaronic Priesthood Young Men in support of the 2012 Mutual theme “Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations” (D&C 115:5).

The 2012 media includes 19 videos featuring stories of youth around the world, messages from youth leaders, and a music video.

Just Asking: Elaine Dalton

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:04:00 -0700

by LDS Living
source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: The general Young Women president talks challenges, triumphs, motherhood, and the gospel.

Q: In 2008 the Young Women General Presidency called for a “return to virtue” and added the value into the Young Women theme. What inspired you to add this value? How do you think this addition will—and how have you seen it so far—impact the lives of LDS young women everywhere?

A: When the value of Virtue was added to the Young Women theme and to Personal Progress, it was, I believe, inspired for our day. I think it was not a part of the theme from the beginning because there needed to be this spotlight put on the importance of chastity and virtue. I have seen its impact in families around the world. Its impact is being seen in young women’s worthiness and attendance at the temple. Its impact in testimony of the Savior is tangible as the young women complete their reading of the Book of Mormon, which is part of the requirement for the Virtue Value Experience. Its impact is in the faith and confidence of young women. They radiate a certain kind of confidence and happiness that is not obtained in ways the world offers. It is obtained by remaining virtuous. I think this value will impact not just the lives of LDS young women but the world! I truly believe that one virtuous young woman, led by the spirit, can change the world. And I see it happening now.

Q: You love running; what first got you hooked on it?

A: I didn’t always love to run. When I first started it was hard. I would run ten steps and walk ten steps. But I persisted. I guess you might say, what I love about running is the daily-ness of it. It is making me mind myself! And it is in the daily habits that we gain strength and power. I really never dreamed I would run a marathon, let alone seventeen of them. But looking back, it was the daily habit that made the difference. Anything we persist in doing becomes easier. Now I can’t imagine my life without a morning run. It makes me happy.

Q: You’re also an avid hiker. Can you share a favorite memory you’ve had when on a hike?

A: I think my favorite hike was in the Grand Tetons. We had hiked every trail and asked the ranger to tell us of one that was less known. It was a trail-less hike that led to a summit adjacent to the Grand Teton. We had to follow cairins (trail markers made of rocks placed on top of each other in a pile), which occasionally let us know we were still on the right track. I was so appreciative of the person who made the hike before us and left cairins to help us stay safely on a difficult path and make the climb to the summit. It was very symbolic for me because the Savior went before and marked the path and led the way.

Q: When did you know you wanted to marry Stephen?

A: I knew I wanted to marry Stephen when he taught me how to make correct decisions from the scriptures. I followed the process outlined in D&C section 9 and went forward with my tentative decision. Because of the confirmation I received as I prayed and then went forward, I have never looked back. It is the best decision I have ever made!

Q: What has been your biggest challenge as a mother, and how did you overcome it?

A: My biggest challenge as a mother has been watching my children go through difficult things. My response is to save them from heartache, challenges, or heart break, but I have learned that this is not possible. I have leaned on the scripture in Proverbs, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” The paths of life have been steep at times, rocky and difficult at others, but the scripture is true and He has been with me and directed my paths even daily, every step of the way, and He has directed my children’s paths also.

Q: What was it like to raise one daughter among all those sons?

A: It was so fun! I was so excited when Emi was born that I could not stay in bed in the hospital. I had to go to the nursery and just stare at her through the glass. It has been pure joy to have Emi—a limited edition of one—be a part of our family. And we both love to do “boy things,” like back packing, sleeping in a tent, running, water skiing on Jackson Lake in freezing water, and eating giant cheeseburgers. We also like the pampering we receive from all the boys, including Emi’s father.

Q: What has been one of the most rewarding experiences in your life?

A: There are many rewarding experiences in life, but I must say being a mother is the most rewarding. Being in the temple when our youngest son Chad was married makes my top ten list. I looked around that sealing room and saw all my children present and everyone who was a part of our extended family and thought—it’s all worth it. All the work, the prayer, the enduring trials and challenges, it’s all worth it in this moment. Those moments when it all comes together are rare and precious and most rewarding.

Q: Your father died suddenly and unexpectedly—how were you able to cope with that experience and what were you able to learn from it?

A: I actually didn’t cope very well with that experience when it happened. I walked around in a daze for over a year. But I think prayer was what helped me most. I just kept praying to understand and to know that the Lord knew me. I didn’t get an answer right away. I doubted that the Lord was there and then one day, I heard a scripture and knew He had just answered my prayers. I will never forget that moment. And it is the scripture I spoke of earlier: Proverbs 3:5–6. I still don’t know why this happened, but I do know that if I trust the Lord, everything will be just fine.

Q: Being a more public figure in the church, what kind of misconceptions have you encountered about who you are and your role in the Church?

A: Well, for one thing—people call me by my name! Before this calling I was never called by my name—I was Emi’s mom or Zach’s mom or the Bishop’s wife but never Elaine S. Dalton! That has taken some getting used to. Someone called our home and asked to speak to President Dalton and I said, “Just a moment and I will get him.” I didn’t even compute that they were asking for me, but they were. The attention could make a person start thinking it is all about them, but I have learned it is all about the Savior. I am His disciple and a servant. When He is the reason for everything we do, it keeps it all in perspective. It is a privilege to serve.

Q: What is one of your favorite things you have learned or seen during your time in the general YW presidency?

A: My favorite thing is that the Lord has helped me to know how much He loves the young women. When I am with them, it is so tangible. He has also let me know who these young women are---they are noble and elect and that is very humbling. I always feel it is such an honor to be in their presence and to see their strength reflected in their eyes. It motivates me and strengthens my testimony every single day.

Q: What do you want to be remembered for in your time as YW general president?

a: I would hope that I would not be remembered. My hope is that every young woman will strive to be virtuous and pure so that she can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost to guide her. My hope is that every young woman will look to the temple and remain worthy of the eternal blessings that come from making and keeping those sacred covenants and that they will always remember the Savior and think of this time as the time when their testimony began to grow and blossom. I would hope that every young woman would remember Him always and continue to progress on her mortal journey back into His presence.

Q: If you could teach only one thing to the young women of the Church today, what would you teach them?

A: That’s easy—REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE!

Young Women Lesson 2: Jesus Christ, the Savior

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:03:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "Our understanding of and faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ will provide strength and capacity needed for a successful life." -Richard G. Scott

Discussion Questions

• What would you say to someone who does not believe Latter-day Saints are Christians?

• In what ways can we show our gratitude for the Savior’s atoning sacrifice?

Excerpt from "He Lives! All Glory to His Name!" Elder Richard G. Scott, April 2010 General Conference:

It is Easter morning, that holy day designated throughout all Christendom to commemorate the victory of Jesus Christ over death. His Resurrection broke what to that point had been the unyielding chains of death. He opened the path whereby each of Heavenly Father’s children born to earth would have the opportunity to rise from death to live again.

How our Father in Heaven must have rejoiced that sacred day when His totally obedient, completely worthy Son shattered the chains of death. What eternal purpose would our Father’s plan of happiness have had except it be made alive through the infinite and eternal Atonement of His gloriously obedient Son? What eternal purpose would have come from the Creation of the earth, where intelligences tabernacled with spirits would receive a body, if death were the end of existence and none would be resurrected? What a glorious moment that morning was for all who understood its significance.

Easter is that sacred season when the heart of each devout Christian turns in humble gratitude to our beloved Savior. It is a season that should bring peace and joy to all who love Him and show it by obeying His commandments. Easter brings thoughts of Jesus, His life, His Atonement, His Resurrection, His love. He has risen from the dead “with healing in his wings” (Malachi 4:2; 3 Nephi 25:2). Oh, how we all need that healing the Redeemer can provide. Mine is a message of hope based on principles embodied in the teachings of the Master Teacher, Jesus Christ.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can understand more fully the breadth and depth of healing provided by His Atonement because we have the fulness of His doctrine. We realize that what He has willingly done with immense suffering and sacrifice will affect us not only in this life but throughout all eternity.

This Easter, as you remember the Resurrection and the price paid and the gift given through the Atonement, ponder what the scriptures teach of those sacred events. Your personal witness of their reality will be strengthened. They must be more than principles you memorize. They must be woven into the very fiber of your being as a powerful bulwark against the rising tide of abomination that infects our world.

To read the full talk, click here.

Online Resource Guides for YM/YW Lessons

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 10:43:00 -0700

source: ldsmediatalk.com

If you teach Young Women or Aaronic Priesthood lessons, you may know that the manuals are available on LDS.org. The Church also publishes a Resource Guide each year that supplements the lessons by providing additional discussion questions, as well as words of the prophets from recent General Conference talks, media suggestions, and links to Personal Progress and Duty to God.

Young Women Lesson 1: A Daughter of God

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:05:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "There is no more beautiful sight than a young woman who glows with the light of the Spirit, who is confident and courageous because she is virtuous." -Elaine S. Dalton

Discussion Questions

• What are some qualities and attributes of our Father in Heaven? In what ways does His plan of salvation provide for our needs at every stage of life?

• In what ways can we increase our worship of Heavenly Father?

• How can knowing that we are daughters of a loving Heavenly Father help us stay true to gospel standards and understand our divine worth?

• How can we understand our true identity as daughters of God when the world sends us so many conflicting messages about who we are, how we came to be, what we should be, and what we should do?

Excerpt from "Remember Who You Are!" Sister Elaine S. Dalton, April 2010 General Conference:

The Lord’s counsel to Joshua is His counsel to you today, the “youth of the noble birthright.” 5 “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” 6 You are not alone! Though you may be the only Latter-day Saint in your school or your group of friends or even your family, you are not alone. You can rely on the strength of the Lord. As Joshua said to the Israelites, “Sanctify yourselves: for to morrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” 7 This was Joshua’s call for a return to virtue, and it is the same call to us today. We simply cannot do the work we have been reserved and prepared to do unless we can access the strength and confidence that comes by living a virtuous life.

To read the full talk, click here.

Be the Girl of Your Dreams: The For the Strength of Youth of the 1950s

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:52:00 -0700

source: keepapitchinin.org

Mormon Life says: Have you ever heard about this Young Women's pamphlet? Almost two years ago, Janice W. asked whether anyone remembered Be the Girl of Your Dreams from the 1950s, and Rachelle described that booklet kept in her mother’s things in enough detail that I was able to find and scan it at the Church History Library.

The release of the new edition of the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet seems an opportune time to begin posting Be the Girl of Your Dreams, to compare and contrast the counsel given, and especially the way the counsel was/is given, to youth of the Church separated by more than 50 years.

'Forever Young' — Two former Young Women leaders honored

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:35:00 -0700

source: ldschurchnews.com

The Young Women General Presidency lauded two former Young Women leaders — Sister Janette Hales Beckham and Sister Margaret D. Nadauld — during their annual "Forever Young" luncheon on Nov. 18. Former Young Women general presidency and board members also attended the event, held in the Reception Room of the Relief Society Building.

Young Women Lesson 47: Messages of Latter-day Prophets

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:05:00 -0700

source: MormonLife.com

Mormon Life says: "It is our solemn responsibility to follow our prophet." - Quentin L. Cook Discussion Questions
    • How is your testimony strengthened by living prophets?
    • What is your responsibility when you raise your hand to sustain a living prophet at ward, stake, and general conference?
    • What blessings have latter-day prophets promised you for living the standards in For the Strength of Youth?

Excerpt from "Give Heed Unto the Prophets' Words," by Elder Quentin L. Cook, April 2008 General Conference:

We admire those who risk their lives to rescue those in danger. 1 When I visited Southern California during the devastating Santa Ana wind fires late last year, I came away with two impressions. The first was how the Church members came to the assistance of those in need. The second was how appreciative they were to the firefighters. One homeowner described what he saw the firefighters do. He pointed out that the Santa Ana winds blow from the warm desert toward the ocean. Once a fire starts, these hot desert winds carry the flames at a speed of up to 60 or 70 miles (97–113 km) per hour. The homeowner described his gratitude and admiration as he watched the firefighters standing with their hoses behind a cleared area, facing a wall of fire up to 10 feet (3 m) high descending upon them at this enormous speed. These brave men and women were able to rescue both people and homes while in constant personal danger.

From time to time, as individuals and as a church, we go through periods of crisis and danger. Some arise quickly like a fire. Others are subtle and go almost undetected before they are upon us. Some require heroic action, but most are less spectacular. The way we respond is crucial. My purpose this evening is to reemphasize to priesthood holders the importance of heeding the words of the prophets. This is one sure way to respond to physical and spiritual dangers of all kinds. Some illustrations may be helpful.

Many of you have participated in treks to experience and appreciate the dramatic rescue of the Willie and Martin handcart companies. I first became aware of this rescue when I was a teenager. My mother gave me a book written by Orson F. Whitney, who would later be an Apostle. 2 Elder Whitney’s book acquainted me with the heroic effort directed by Brigham Young to rescue the handcart companies. They had been overtaken by winter storms on the high plains of Wyoming. Some had died and many others were on the verge of death. Brigham Young became aware of their plight, and at the October 1856 general conference he instructed the Saints to drop everything and rescue those stranded on the plains. 3

To read the rest of this talk, click here.