Lesson 25: The Birth of Jesus Christ: "Good Tidings of Great Joy"

Sisters,

In Relief Society this Sunday, we have the privilege of studying President Joseph Fielding Smith's teachings about the birth of the Savior.  I love his testimony of Christmas, that I think sums up the entire lesson:

"We rejoice in the birth of the Son of God among men.

We are grateful for the atoning sacrifice He worked out by the shedding of His own blood.

We are thankful that He has redeemed us from death and opened the door so that we may gain eternal life.

We pray for peace on earth, for the spread of the gospel, and for the final triumph of truth.

We plead with our Father's children everywhere to join with us in doing those things which will give us all peace in this world and eternal glory in the world to come."

Please watch and consider the following and come prepared to discuss on Sunday:

• What do you do in your home to remember the Savior at Christmastime?
• Take a few minutes to watch The Nativity  
• What are your thoughts and feelings about Jesus Christ's willingness to come to the world as a baby and endure the difficulties of mortality?
• Think about the connection between the Savior's birth and His Atonement.  How can this understanding influence our Christmas traditions?
• What is one thing we can do to better allow the story of the Savior's birth to "permeate and influence our lives"?

We'll be discussing all of these "good tidings of great joy" on Sunday!  See you then!

Stephanie Johnson 

Lesson 22: Prayer - A Commandment and a Blessing

Sisters-

What a blessing it has been to study the life and "faith in action" of the Prophet Joseph Fielding Smith!  He was the first Prophet of God I got to see "in person" at a BYU Devotional in 1970.  He appeared very old to me.  He seemed almost shy.  His delivery was "quiet" in nature.  But I had the unmistakable impression that he was called as Prophet, Seer, and Revelator for the Lord at that time.
Studying his offerings/insights on so many important gospel topics, I have come to revere him.

This week I get to teach Lesson 22: Prayer - A Commandment and a Blessing.  Please consider these thoughts:
1. If you could write a prayer out before you expressed it to the Lord, what would it say?
2. Why is PRAYER a commandment?
3. What is an "enthymeme" and how does it apply to how/why we study the gospel and/or the writings of our modern day prophets?
4. What is ONE WAY we can improve our communication with the Lord upon better understanding the material in Lesson 22 of the Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Fielding Smith?

SEE you Sunday!

Jeanne Grant

Sisters,

As a follow up to yesterday's lesson, I wanted to post President Howard W Hunter's advice for us to keep the Spirit of Christ in our hearts this Christmas Season.

"This Christmas, mend a quarrel.  Seek out a forgotten friend.  Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust.  Write a letter.  Give a soft answer.  Encourage youth.  Manifest your loyalty in word and deed.  Keep a promise.  Forgo a grudge.  Forgive an enemy.  Apologize.  Try to understand.  Examine your demands on others.  Think first of someone else.  Be kind.  Be gentle.  Laugh a little more.  Express your gratitude.  Welcome a stranger.  Gladden the heart of a child.  Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth.  Speak your love and then speak it again."

May your Christmas season be filled with the spirit of Christ.


Love,
Natalie Marstella

Sisters,

I loved listening to Bishop Monroe's lesson yesterday during the combined RS/Priesthood meeting.  During the lesson my mind drifted back to when I was a young mother of five small children, ranging in age from one year old to 8 years old.  Our family had just relocated to Houston as part of a job promotion.  We were there three weeks when my husband informed me that he wanted to pursue a different life which would not include me.  I remember the deepest of sorrows piercing my soul.

One day I took my children on a bike ride (an activity we so often did when they were young).  I had the one year old in a seat on my bike.  I had my 2-1/2 year old in a trailer behind me and the three older children were riding their own bikes.  As we rode that day, I was pleading with Heavenly Father for help and guidance.  I did not know how I would be able to move on.  I had been a stay-at-home mother.  I would now need to find employment.  How would I juggle work and being a good mother to these amazing five children?  How would I manage to raise the children on my own?  Would I have enough time to teach them Gospel truths so they would stay close to the church?

As I was pouring my heart out to Heavenly Father, a feeling of peace came over me.  I specifically remember the sun shining down on me and the cool breeze blowing on my face and through my hair.  While I was internalizing all of this beauty which was in stark contract to my emotions, I distinctly heard a voice which said to me, "Everything is going to be ok."  And that promise has been fulfilled.

While this experience was seventeen years ago, I can vividly recall all of the feelings and emotions of that day.  I am forever grateful for God's creations.  Anytime I go outside and the sun is shining and the wind blowing, no matter what is happening in my life I am immediately at peace.  I also learned from this experience that Heavenly Father knows me personally.  He knows my sorrows and heartaches as well as my triumphs.  I know he loves ME and cares for ME; and I know He answers prayers.

Sisters, I hope you will take the time to reflect upon your lives and to recall those times when you have felt of Heavenly Father's love for you.  I testify that He does care for each of us, that He does know each of us by name, that He does answer prayers, and that He is there for us whenever we need Him.  I am so thankful for "all His creations of which I'm a part!  Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me."

Love,
Natalie Marstella
RS President

Joseph Fielding Smith, Ch. 21, "Proclaiming the Gospel to the World"

In a talk given last April, Elder Anderson said, " If you’re not a full-time missionary with a missionary badge pinned on your coat, now is the time to paint one on your heart." 

We can each think of many blessings that are in our lives because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Each one of us has different circumstances and different spheres of influence. Regardless of our situation, we can all be missionaries. Sometimes sharing the gospel can feel intimidating or awkward. I testify that as we pray for missionary opportunities, the Lord will make weaknesses into strengths. Conversations that once felt awkward will feel natural. Friends who once seemed disinterested will ask questions. When we trust in the Lord and make personal missionary goals, we will see miracles in our lives.

Each of us has the power and potential to "be a force and a power and influence that would break down opposition and would prepare people to receive the light of the everlasting Gospel." As we become anxiously engaged in this work, Joseph Fielding Smith promises, "there will radiate from this community . . . an influence that would be irresistible" (Smith p. 269)

Love,

Claira Wilson

Joseph Fielding Smith, Ch. 20, "Love & Concern for All Our Father's Children"

If we love the Lord with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our mind, and our neighbors as ourselves, then there is nothing more to be desired. Then we will be in hormony with the total of sacred law. These words, spoken by Joseph Fielding Smith, are few and simple and yet seem to say it all. This is amazing that there is nothing more to be desired. The world would be in harmony with God's law and we all would be worthy to live in the presence of God. Really sisters, this lesson is profound. I'm so grateful to have had this lesson put before me and to be tried and tested in living it. Isn't the Gospel just great!! I look forward to sharing a few thoughts and getting your thoughts as well.

Love,

Karen Armstrong

Make-n-Bake-n-Take November 8th!

This Sunday's Lesson

Imagine losing 5-6 days every month, when you could not go to school and you could not go to work.  That is the reality for many young girls.  Come and learn about the Stake Service Project. Learn how you can will touch the lives of many young girls in Africa!

Love,

Debra Newcum,

RS President

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter. 19 "In The World But Not Of the World"

We, as Latter-day Saints have heard the title of this lesson discussed many times. We must remain in the world to be valiant missionaries, obey the Lord’s commandments and honor our covenants. The Lord is not waiting for the world to become darker, before He comes again, He is waiting for his Saints to shine brighter. We will be safe and happy if we stay within the Lord’s boundaries. Relief Society sisters need to be courageous to step within our communities and be an influence for good.

We should not be surprised that our world is becoming more terrifying, it has been prophesied to be so. It has also been shown to prophets of old, that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would stand strong and protect that which is good and righteous.

• President Joseph Fielding Smith said simply, “Live as becometh a Saint.” What does that mean to you? 
•  Pres. Smith indicates several suggestions for us to ponder – how do you measure up?

The Prince of Peace is the answer to the world’s woes, and living His gospel is the only way our souls will find peace. 

I'm going to start with some follow-up questions from lessons past, and I'll have "wonderful" prizes! 

Love, 

Karen Bateman

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 18, Living By Every Word that Proceeds From the Mouth of God

President Smith's focus, in seeking after his salvation declared, 

"I know that I can find it only in obedience to the laws of the Lord." He also felt his duty as a prophet of the Lord to be a "watchman on the tower whose duty it was to sound the warning call to those below who could not see the approaching danger." 

Please review this lesson and come prepared to share your thoughts and inspiration that we may all strive a little harder to be prepared to walk in the light and endure to the end.

Launa Turley

"A Priceless Heritage of Hope" Elder Erying

In preparing the lesson for this Sunday, "A Priceless Heritage of Hope," I have a few questions I'd like you to ponder.

• What are we doing in order to contribute to our legacy for our future generations to follow? 

• How can we bestow riches that will last on those we love?

Come prepared to share an example of someone you know who has provided "a priceless heritage."

Thank You,
Shelley Bouck-Christiansen

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 17, Sealing Power & Temple Blessings

This Sunday we will discuss the coming of that great prophet Elijah, when he appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the newly dedicated Kirtland Temple. 

• Why was Elijah, one of the very first heavenly visitors sent after the temple had been completed? 
• What is the “Spirit of Elijah” that is often referred to in the context of that appearance? 
• Have you personally felt that spirit in your life? 
• Joseph Fielding Smith says that the “Spirit of Elijah” is important – but there is something far more important – what is that?
• The restoration of the sealing power to the earth, prevents the whole earth from being utterly wasted at the Savior’s 2nd coming – what does that mean?

This lesson, compiled from Joseph Fielding Smith’s teachings, is so powerfully presented -- please read through it and then bring your manuals or devices so that we can re-read some passages together. 

Remember, the whole destiny of the earth depends on each of us doing our part! 

Love, 

Karen Bateman

Lunch Bag Service Project

Dear Sisters,

Thank you for helping us to decorate our first 500 lunch bags for our service project last night! Many sisters brought home many more bags to decorate throughout the week. Please feel free to print and use the quotations that were attached in our recent email. 

We also have hundreds more bags, and glue, and markers available for anyone else who would like to pitch in and help us along. Please contact Catherine Morphis by email if you would like more blank bags. This is a great opportunity for an easy service project for home evening, youth activities, or quiet time.

Finally, as I mentioned last night. We hope that more sisters will log in to justserve.org and register as a user. Please search and sign up for the salvation army lunch sack project under D4. If you would like help registering, please email Catherine and she will register you and send you a password. We will be using this platform for our service every month so it is a tool which we should all become familiar.

Thank You,

Catherine Morphis

Joseph Fielding Smith, Ch. 16, "Bringing Up Children In Light & Truth"

  We are all teachers at sometime in our lives. It can be as we raise a family or when we teach as Grandparents or in the church as Missionaries or in other auxiliaries of the Church. Teaching is fundamental to building Heavenly Father's kingdom. Heavenly Father as given us many opportunities to see how He feels in regards to His children. There is the "Proclamation to the World", numerous scriptures that are aimed at the family and the lesson for this Sunday. We have been given and been warned of the importance that is placed on us as we love and teach His children. Please come with your hearts open to hearing and learning and receiving how to bring up your children in light and truth

The Lord said in a revelation given to the Church in 1831:

“And again, inasmuch as parents have children in Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized, that teach them not to understand the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ the Son of the living God, and of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands, when eight years old, the sin be upon the heads of the parents.

“For this shall be a law unto the inhabitants of Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized.” [D&C 68:25–26.]

… The Lord requires this at our hands.

Love,

Karen Armstrong

General Conference – No Ordinary Blessing

Why do we need Prophets? Because Heavenly Father loves His children. He has not left them to walk through this mortal life without direction and guidance. The teachings of our Heavenly Father are not the ordinary, predictable, run-of-the-mill kind you can pick up in paperback at the local bookstore. They are the wisdom of an all-powerful, all-knowing celestial Being who loves His children. Encompassed in His words are the secrets of the ages – the key to happiness in this life and in the world to come.

Heavenly Father reveals this wisdom to His children on earth through His servants the Prophets (Amos 3:7). Prophets are inspired teachers and are always special witnesses of Jesus Christ. Prophets speak not only to the people of their time, but they also speak to people throughout all time. Their voices echo through the centuries as a testament of God’s will to His children.

Much of what the Lord reveals to His prophets is intended to prevent sorrow for us as individuals and as societies. When God speaks, He does so to teach, inspire, refine, and warn His children. When individuals and societies ignore their Heavenly Father’s instructions, they do so at the risk of trial, torment, and toil.

Come learn from each other as we share our testimonies of General Conference, and learn ways to assist us, and our families, to glean the most from Conference. General Conference is October 4-5. Now is the time to prepare to receive personal revelation from the Lord’s servants, His Prophets.


Love,
Debra R. Newcum
Relief Society President

FAR-lington

Normally I don't go to veterinary appointments from Arlington, TX anymore because it's just too far away. In fact, I've been known to refer to Arlington as FAR-lington because it's just too far away. Something told me to take this call and so I proceeded to get all of my equipment for euthanasia packed up into my car.

When I go into houses, I generally take notice of religious items such as crosses, statues of saints, Mezuzahs, Buddha statues, etc. The things religious symbols in people's houses or lack thereof generally can tell me how to approach bringing up the subject of the gospel. Upon entering this house I found none of these items and was quite confused as to how to start up a conversation about the subject of religion. The first tip-off should have been the stacks of food in the kitchen but I thought maybe this family was just uber prepared for emergencies. When I sat down to write the medical record and invoice, my eyes fell upon something absolutely delightful. It was the very familiar picture of Dallas temple of The Church of Jesus of Latter Day Saints.

What a refreshing reminder that there are more of us out there than we realize. Lately, I've been feeling quite frustrated at the lack of reception of the gospel message. And in order to prove a point, the Lord had me drive all the way to FAR-lington in order to remind me that some people do say yes to the gospel. And those people are all around us whether we recognize it or not.

Rachel Roark

Teachings For Our Times

Sisters,

Our discussion this Sunday will be focused on Elder Bednar's words from April 2014 General Conference, "Bear Up Their Burdens With Ease."  Elder Bednar's message gives us hope that our trials and burdens are designed to bring value to our lives and help us draw closer to the Lord by relying upon His atonement.

Please read his message and consider your thoughts on the questions he poses:

1. Is the load I am carrying producing the spiritual traction that will enable me to press forward with faith in Christ on the strait and narrow path and avoid getting stuck?
2. Is the load I am carrying creating sufficient spiritual traction so I ultimately can return home to Heavenly Father?

I look forward to hearing about your experiences and the ways you have been strengthened by the Lord in your times of need.

See you Sunday!

Annie Reid

You're Invited...

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 15 "Eternal Marriage"

This Sunday, we get to discuss the wonderful doctrine of eternal, or celestial, marriage. Every other church, or official, on the earth gives a bill of divorcement when a marriage is performed using the words, “...'till death do you part." President Joseph Fielding Smith points out that the Lord meant marriage to be eternal from the very beginning with Adam and Eve. Some things to consider as you read and study the lesson this week:

1. Will all sisters who lived worthily of an eternal companion have that blessing?
2. What blessing beyond eternal companionship does celestial marriage ensure?
3. What blessings does eternal marriage give your children?
4. Do you nourish your eternal marriage with expressions of love?
5. What about children who die before marriageable age, yet are worthy, do they receive a companion?

The restored Gospel of Jesus Christ contains all the answers and more. How lucky we are to have found our membership. Let’s discuss together these and other questions this Sunday.

With Love, 

Karen Bateman

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapt. 14, "The Gift of the Holy Ghost"

Dear Sisters,

I encourage everyone to read Sunday's lesson and prepare yourself so you are able to be taught by the Spirit, which is what the Holy Ghost does for us.

Also, good things will come to those who know, by heart, the Articles of Faith (either of them) which talk about the Holy Ghost.

Love,

Barbara Doerk

"Children" Elder Neil L Anderson

This Sunday our discussion in Relief Society is focused on the Doctrine of the Family. Elder Neil L. Anderson gave a beautiful talk titled “Children” in General Conference, October 2011. As you read this short talk, consider the simple but clear doctrine he reminds us of and how it applies to you in your life.

• What types of things did you learn in your home growing up?
• How do you teach your children and/or grandchildren to understand and value the Family?
• What philosophies in the world are contradicting the commandments regarding Family?
• How do you communicate to people not of our faith, the importance of Family in our Church?

I look forward to hearing your thoughts, ideas and experiences in strengthening and defending the eternal and beautiful Doctrine of the Family.

Julianne Bawden

"Faithful in the Little Things"

Each of us are blessed with our own set of problems to solve, responsibilities to fulfill, and callings to perform. Recently my attention has been refocused on being faithful in the little things. Our lives are a culmination of the consequences of so many tiny seemingly insignificant decisions we make on a daily basis. Let us be particularly mindful of how our tiny choices morph into accomplished lifelong goals. 

Take a moment to watch M. Russell Ballard's video, "Flecks of Gold."

 - Rachel Roark

Sunday's Lesson: The Key's & Authority of the Priesthood

Sisters,

This Sunday we will have an opportunity to continue our study of the Priesthood, as taught by Elder Oaks in the April 2014 General Conference. You can find the talk here. Elder Oaks' message reassures us that priesthood keys direct women as well as men and that the authority of the priesthood is not exclusive to men in the church. 

• As you read this talk, please focus on the ways that Elder Oaks defines keys and authority. 
• Is there anything he teaches that you did not know or that clarified your understanding of the priesthood?
• How do you understand your relationship with the priesthood as the power and authority of God? 
• What is the greatest blessing you have from exercising priesthood authority? 

So often I think of the priesthood blessing my life as I am a recipient of its power. I invite you to expand this vision and think of the ways that you, as a woman, have been able to experience and utilize priesthood authority. 

I look forward to learning from your experiences and insights.

See you Sunday!

Annie Reid

FamilySearch Announcement!

Some of you have asked us to share the information on the free family history subscriptions. Below is a reproduction of the email from the church announcing this opportunity. Please let me know if these links are not working correctly.  Please note, that this free offer is only for those who have registered with family search.

FamilySearch Announcement    June 2014

Hi!

We’re excited to announce that Latter-day Saint users of FamilySearch.org can now receive personal access to Ancestry.com, findmypast, and MyHeritage at no cost!

Access to these commercial family history websites, used in tandem with enhanced FamilySearch tools, will open new doors of discovery, elevate your ability to provide temple blessings to ancestors, and increase the joy that comes from connecting generations.

Just Serve

Looking for something to do this summer?

Remember that your community needs you!

JustServe.org has just the right service opportunity 

For you • for your family • or for your group!

••• Click on the link to get started. •••

Joseph Fielding Smith, Ch. 13 "Baptism"

Joseph Fielding Smith said that Baptism was literally a transplanting, or resurrection from one life to another - from a life of sin, to a spiritual life.  Most all of us have been baptised.  So each of you are “experts” on your baptism!

• Were you a child of record and baptized at 8, or were you a convert to the Church and baptised upon joining?
• How does the repentance process play a part in each of the above mentioned baptisms?
• Have you observed the transformation both spiritual and physical when someone joins the Church and prepares for baptism?
• What blessing has God revealed through the Book of Mormon concerning Baptism? 
• When is our Baptism complete?
• Do you remember your Baptism Day – what sticks out in your mind when you reflect on that day?
• Has the importance of Baptism changed for you since you were baptized? Why? 
• How are you preparing your children or grandchildren for Baptism?  Is it our responsibility? The Primary? The Bishop? 

Sisters, let’s discuss together this important topic on Sunday – our feelings, our emotions, our testimonies surrounding our baptism and our children’s baptisms into the Kingdom of God.

With love, 
Sister Karen Bateman

Joseph Fielding Smith, Ch. 12, "The Oath & Covenant of the Priesthood"

In the revelation on priesthood, given to Joseph Smith in September 1832, the Lord says that the Melchizedek Priesthood is everlasting; that it administers the gospel, is found in the true church in all generations, and holds the keys of the knowledge of God. He says that it "enables the Lord's people to be sanctified, to see the face of God, and to enter into the rest of the Lord, 'which rest is the fulness of his gllory," (See D&C 84:17-24.)

Sisters, this is an amzaing promise of the Lord to us in this despensation. I'm grateful to be liviing at this time when we really have the fullnes and all of the blessings that belong to the Church of God. This lesson brings new insight to what we have in our hands and the depth that we receive daily from living the Gospel and having the priesthood to shower us and enable us to go back into the presence of our Heavenly Father.

Teaching For Our Times

Sisters,

This week our lesson will focus on "Hastening the Lord's Game Plan," from Elder Gifford Nielsen message in October 2013 General Conference. Elder Nielsen encourages us all to put think about our personal "game plan" for sharing the gospel and participating in missionary work. 

As you prepare for our discussion, please think about your "strategy" for the work. I hope we can share our success stories of member missionary work and encourage each other to reach outside ourselves to share the love of our Savior!

See you Sunday!

Love,

Annie Reid

Father's Day is Sunday, June 15th!

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 11

Dear Sisters,

Our discussion topic this Sunday is “Honoring the Priesthood Keys Restored through Joseph Smith” and is found in Chapter 11 of Joseph Fielding Smith, The Teachings of President of the Church.

Since we had a great discussion last month on the Priesthood, I would like for us to focus on two concepts found in Chapter 11 this Sunday. Those two concepts are Honor and Keys.  As you consider these please ask yourself the following questions: 

• What is the difference between holding an office in the priesthood and holding priesthood keys? 
• How do we honor the priesthood?

I look forward to discussing this subject with you on Sunday.

Sonia Brown

Time Out for Women

Ladies, Time Out for Women is coming to our area again this September along with Time Out for Girls. If you've ever attended you'll know that this is an opportunity to build yourself up and come away stronger. It's an opportunity to go with a group of friends, or go alone and make new friends there.  See their website for more information.

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 10, "Our Search For Truth"

Joseph Fielding Smith said, "Our sole objective, where the truths of salvation are concerned, should be to find out what the Lord has revealed and then to believe and act accordingly.

If we will follow the spirit of light, the spirit of truth, the spirit that is set forth in the revelations of the Lord; if we will, through the spirit of prayer and humility, seek for the guidance of the Holy Ghost, the Lord will increase our light and our understanding; so that we shall have the spirit of discernment, we shall understand the truth, we shall know falsehood when we see it, and we shall not be deceived."

Sisters please be thinking about laws, principles or truths that have been saving in nature for you or have had an impact on your life.

Love,

Karen Armstrong

"Baseball Ready!"

It is little league baseball season in the Roark household. After spending forty-five minutes hunting for a baseball uniform, we all piled in the car for an enjoyable day at the ballpark. 

The opposing baseball team was quite fascinating to me as they frequently yelled and reminded each other to be "Baseball Ready!" When kids were found in the outfield slouching or playing in the dirt, all of the adults would remind the kids to be "Baseball Ready!" 

Honestly, the game of baseball has always been miserably boring to me until today. Standing around waiting on the off-chance that a baseball might fly in your direction does not sound like my idea of fun.  However, maybe my perspective has been wrong all along.  There is a difference between standing in the field playing in the dirt and standing in the field with knees bent and glove at the ready. That difference is one hundred percent found in the attitude that the ball IS coming in your direction at some point. Good outfielders are expecting the ball at all times and so they position themselves to catch it. Poor outfielders don't ever expect the ball to make it to them and so they are caught unawares playing in the dirt. "Baseball Ready!" requires diligence.

Might I suggest to you that we as individuals in the church become "Spiritually Ready!" This means that we do our basics of Family Home Evening, scripture study, and daily family prayer as the prophets have repeatedly counseled us. It also means that we spend our time putting ourselves in the position to help others when we are needed. 

Just as the coaches and parents of the baseball team frequently shouted "Baseball Ready!" to the semi-inattentive group of seven year olds, let us not weary of reminding ourselves to be "Spiritually Ready!" Playing in the dirt is big fun but we have a game to play.

 - Rachel Roark

Funeral Service for Paula Hibbs

Sister Paula Hibbs passed away on Sunday, June 1. There will be a public viewing in Dallas, Texas at the Meandering Way Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 14740 Meandering Way, Dallas, Texas on Friday, June 6th from 9 am to 11 am with funeral services following at 11 am. Burial will be in the Restland Cemetery at 13005 Greenville Ave., Dallas, Texas.

Compassion

Dear Sisters,

Tomorrow's lesson in Relief Society will be based in part on a 2010 General Conference talk by Barbara Thompson titled, "And of Some Have Compassion, Making a Difference." I'd like to focus on the subject of compassion.

• Do you have a story of how the compassion of others has made a difference in your life?

• Do you have a story about how serving with compassion has blessed your life?

Come, share your life experiences with us and let us all be the better for it!

Love,

Mary Reid

Joseph & Hyrum Smith, Witnesses of the Book of Mormon

This week we have the blessing of discussing the Book of Mormon, and the Witnesses to this marvelous document.  We will also discuss the importance of Witnesses in Heavenly Father's plan to restore Christ's original Church to the earth, and the role the Book of Mormon played in the restoration.

Things to ponder in anticipation of Sunday's Lesson:

•  Do you have a personal testimony of the Book of Mormon?
• Are you reading and discussing in your family?
• What insights have you gained from reading the Book of Mormon, that has helped you live the Gospel?
• How have you helped your children love and gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon.
• Who was the Book of Mormon written for?
• What are your favorite stories and who are your heroes in the Book of Mormon?

President Joseph Fielding Smith said "no member of this Church can stand approved in the presence of God, who has not seriously and carefully read the Book of Mormon."

See you Sunday Sisters and bring your Book of Mormon.

Love, Karen Bateman

Priorities - Ain't Nothing Better

While reflecting in the silence of the temple I couldn't help but overhear an older gentleman with a walker remark that he did three endowments last Thursday. 

The younger man sitting next to him said with a look of surprise, "Three endowments?" 

In a very matter-of-fact tone, the older gentleman replied, "Ain't got nothing better to do." The whole room erupted in quiet giggles. 

My day had been consumed by calling clients for work, mowing the lawn, teaching some homeschool, and getting at least one load of laundry done. My initial reaction to the older gentleman's statement was to pass judgment that he was probably widowed, retired, and had little temporal responsibility in this stage of life. 

Further thought about the matter helped me realize that he was probably just like me in some ways. He probably sacrificed other other activities in order to serve in the temple that day. The older gentleman may have had a myriad of other things to do, but none of them were actually better, or more important, than being in the temple.  I realized that whatever gets made a priority, gets done. 

Let's put our family history work and temple work higher on the priority list this week. 

After all, you ain't got nothin' better to do.

 - Rachel Roark

Happy Mother's Day!

I would add that those who teach & influence our children help build the nation as well.

Happy Mother's Day!

May/June Service Project

For the month of May & through June 15th we're asking you to donate sunscreen for children with cancer so they can enjoy a special summer camp, Camp I-Hope, with their siblings.  They will enjoy swimming, wall climbing, singing, dancing, playing games, & a carnival - and they go through LOTS of sunscreen!  Your donation will protect them from the sun's rays while they get on with the important business of living & adapting to their illness.  SPF 30 or higher please.  Spray-on sunscreen is preferred.  We will collect your donations in Relief Society, or you can hand them off to any member of the RS Presidency.  Thank you so much!

Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 8

"The Lord [has] restored the gospel and organized again his Church upon the earth. The reason for such organization and restoration is the fact that for centuries the world had been in spiritual darkness, without the authority, and without the understanding; they knew not how to worship the living God.

"The everlasting covenant had been broken; the correct understanding of gospel principles had disappeared through apostasy; the right to officiate in the ordinances of the gospel had ceased among men. It became necessary that all this might be restored, and that faith might increase among the people through an opening of the heavens and a restoration of the gospel.

"We announce that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the kingdom of God on earth, the only place where men may come to learn the true doctrines of salvation and find the authority of the holy priesthood."

Sisters, what a marvelous time to be on the earth. We have the Restoration in our hands and get to take part in our Heavenly Father's hands to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. What blessings are ours. I look forward to sharing these truths with you.

Love, 

Karen Armstrong

Ladies,

Our lesson this week takes us back to one of the best weekends of the year - General Conference! We will discuss Elder Hales message, "General Conference: Strengthening Faith and Testimony." Find it here.

How wonderful it is to have living prophets on the earth today to guide and direct us. Conference is an amazing opportunity we have twice a year to spiritually recharge our battery and increase our reserve of faith. As you revisit Elder Hales' talk, I invite you to think of the role that Conference has played in your life and the development of your testimony. 

I hope we can learn from each other and benefit from hearing the different ways we each participate in General Conference. 

With Love,

Annie Reid

Joseph & Hyrum Smith, Witnesses for Jesus Christ

"Oh how lovely was the morning. radiant beamed the sun above - when within the shady woodland, Joseph sought the God of love." 

Of course we understand from that beautiful hymn, Joseph was our beloved prophet of the restoration, Joseph Smith. who as a mere 14 year old boy sought in prayer God the Father. Please ponder the following thoughts as you read lesson #7 in the JFS manual.

• Do you have a personal testimony of the First Vision? Have you ever prayed for one?
• Is it a necessary foundation of a testimony?
• What did we learn from the First Vision?

This lesson is about both Joseph and Hyrum Smith,and here are a few more questions to ponder when you read.

• What role did Hyrum play in the restoration?
• Could Joseph have accomplished it without Hyrum?
• Have you ever felt the closeness that Joseph and Hyrum had with a friend, brother, sister or family member?
• How are they related to our author Joseph Fielding Smith? See any similarities?
• How did Joseph and Hyrum continually testify of Christ?

I look forward to Easter Sunday Sisters - Jesus Christ Is Risen Again! and so shall we! Jesus Christ was the God of this World, raised again to Godhood, because He was perfect. Let us ponder this Easter if we have lived up to our Covenants so that we may come forward in the Morning of the First Resurrection, clothed with glory, immortality and eternal life!

Sister Karen Bateman

He Is Risen

Read this article to help you prepare for Easter:

5 Minutes A Day For A Christ-Centered Easter Week

Stake RS Women's Conference

The Significance of the Sacrament

Joseph Fielding Smith said; "In my judgment the sacrament meeting is the most sacred; the most holy, of all the meetings of the Church. When I reflect upon the gathering of the Savior and his apostles on that memorable night when he introduced the sacrament; when I think of that solemn occasion my heart is filled with wonderment and my feelings are touched. I consider that gathering one of the most solemn and wonderful since the beginning of time".

Sisters, please come to Sacrament Meeting with renewed thoughts about partaking of the Sacrament and the impact this ordinace has on your life. Please be ready to share.

Love,

Karen Armstrong

April Service

For the month of April, Relief Society will be collecting vases for a local JustServe need. Petals for Patients is a program offered by Silverado Hospice for patients in their home environment. Donated vases will be used to make new flower arrangements for patients who are at the end of their journey.  Everyone loves flowers.  We need only supply the vase. 

Some Favorite General Conference Memes

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General Conference

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Meandering Way Chapel

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"Outmatched"

  

  The mouthguard made it difficult to breathe and the taekwondo sparring gear only contributed to the claustrophobia. On Friday nights the blackbelts at my taekwondo school duke it out in sparring matches. My opponent was an extremely quick and fit sixteen year old young man who was luring me into a corner of the ring and patiently waiting. My instructor yelled, "Come on, Rachel!" as I reluctantly tried to move in for a series of kicks. That is precisely when my opponent twirled around with seemless ease and kicked the tar out of me several times. Reeling from the acute pain of the blows, the pitiful sound of my jagged breaths taunted me as I tried to compose myself. What in the world was I even doing here? What was I trying to prove? The thought of being a thirty-eight year old overweight woman who could barely breathe let alone fight just crushed my spirit. 

  It had been this way in my personal life as well for several months now. Just as progress was starting to be made a sneak attack from the adversary seemed to pummel the hope right out of me. In my taekwondo sparring gear and in my personal life one fact was becoming more and more apparent. I was completely and totally outmatched. 

  For about ten seconds the thought of just quitting, getting out of the ring and just sitting down filled my mind. The thought was interrupted by the voice of my taewondo Master yelling, "Come on, Rachel. Side kick. Defense. More!" My taekwondo Master would not have put in me in this match had he not thought that I would learn something. And likewise Heavenly Father doesn't put us into battle without good cause. In that critical moment, the realization that it is alright to be outmatched overtook me. The resolve to play defense and just withstand the physical and spiritual blows gave me a sense of peace and satisfaction. Losing the match is acceptable as long as we stay in the fight and retain our dignity. As believers, we know who wins in the end.

D&C 88:112-116

General Women's Meeting

To All Women & Girls 8 Years Old & Up!

Come, join us for the General Women's Meeting 

Saturday, March 29th at 7:00 p.m.  

Richardson Stake Center

Refreshments will be served after the broadcast.

Come, Join With Us

Sisters,

Our discussion this Sunday will be based on Elder Uchtdorf's talk from October's conference - "Come, Join With Us."  His message remind us that regardless of our circumstances, personal history, or the strength of our testimony - there is room for us in this church.  

As you read or listen to this message, please ponder on the question posed in his introduction, "Why would anyone want to join such a church?"

Please consider how you would personally answer that question if asked. What drives you to do the many things the Lord has asked of us? What about this faith and organization encourages you to continue when trials or responsibilities may seem overwhelming and too much to bear?

I pray our discussion will allow us to support each other in our efforts to endure faithfully to the end and open our arms to those around us and invite them to come, join with us.  

Annie Reid