Blog
The Illusion of Self-love: What Christ Taught Instead (Tuesday 20 May, 2025)
Is self-love the key to healing? True wholeness comes through connection, not isolation or self-focus.“Checking Our Blind Spots” (Tuesday 20 May, 2025)
While we are able to live our lives how it makes sense to us, inevitably we each have blind spots that may cloud our judgment or limit our ability to see ourselves clearly. In this episode we discuss methods to gauge our blind spots, receive productive feedback from our relationships with others, and hold ourselves accountable to those that need to be eliminated as we continually develop into who we want to be.10 Self-Reliance Pitfalls to Avoid (Tuesday 20 May, 2025)
Hopefully in the time since General Conference you have been considering what you need to do to be better prepared temporally as well as spiritually. When beginning or continuing your food storage journey, there are a few pitfalls I would like help you avoid.Why Didn’t My Spouse Love Me? (Monday 19 May, 2025)
As I have worked with mid-singles the last five years, one of the most common and most vexing questions has been “Why?” “Why didn’t [my spouse] love me?” “Why would my [spouse] choose to throw away our eternal family?“ I tried everything I knew how.” I asked myself similar questions. Deep down these questions all amount to the same deeply personal question, “Why wasn’t I enough?”You Can Become a Bestselling Author in Just 30 Minutes a Day (Monday 19 May, 2025)
Robert Allen is a guru about writing books that bounce straight to top of the bestsellers list. Now to celebrate his 77th birthday, he’s going to share that information by selling his next book, "How You Can Become a Bestselling Author in Just 30 Minutes a Day" for $0.99 today on his birthday.Faith, Fellowship, and Flourishing: Salt Lake Interfaith Roundtable’s Sacred Music Evening (Monday 19 May, 2025)
Beneath the historic vaulted ceilings of the Salt Lake Tabernacle, voices rose in harmony on Sunday, April 27, 2025—not just in sacred song, but in a powerful chorus of unity and love. The gathering brought together hearts and souls from across the religious spectrum throughout the Salt Lake area.Will There Be Refreshments? The Sweetness of Gospel Blessings (Wednesday 14 May, 2025)
While I’m all for refreshments in the form of food and drink, engaging in God’s work through obedience, faith, and service brings another type of refreshment entirely.Joseph Smith was Not the Only One Who Anxiously Searched for Truth (Wednesday 14 May, 2025)
The era of the restoration was a time of searching. The Father and the Son, as they responded to the prayer of Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove, were responding to the prayers and longings of innumerable others, both living and dead.11 Conferences for Young Single Adults and Single Adults in 2025 (Wednesday 14 May, 2025)
Learn about conferences for single adults and young single adults happening across North America in 2025.The Heartland Versus Mesoamerica Part 2: The Heartland “Pins” in the Map (Wednesday 14 May, 2025)
How firm is this pin? From tradition, it is solid. It has long been accepted and taught that the New York hill is the very Hill Cumorah mentioned in the Book of Mormon. When we examine that actual text of the Book of Mormon, however, the pin is less than firm.Why Did the Lord Give a Revelation to the Shakers? (Tuesday 13 May, 2025)
In May 1831, a recent convert named Leman Copley approached the Prophet Joseph Smith with a request: some elders should be sent on a mission to North Union, Ohio. This town was settled by members of the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, though its members were often called Shakers or Shaking Quakers “because their worship included a form of ecstatic dancing.”Mental Health Minute: Checked Baggage or Carry-on? (Tuesday 13 May, 2025)
You may have heard the story of a man who read an article that said most car accidents happen within a mile of his house. So, he and his wife decided to move. Obviously, this story is a light-hearted illustration that when we try to run from our problems, we cannot run fast enough.How Global Feminism Forgot Motherhood—and Waged the UN’s Quiet War on Love (Sunday 11 May, 2025)
What if love, not labor, is the foundation of a just society? Motherhood proves essential to human flourishing.Church Leaders Honor Mothers Around the World (Sunday 11 May, 2025)
In honor of Mother’s Day celebrations around the world during May, several Apostles and General Officers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared social media messages celebrating women and their divine roles and contributions this weekend.Open House Begins for Syracuse Utah Temple (Wednesday 7 May, 2025)
It will be the 22nd operating temple in Utah once dedicated.Why Are Saints Invited to Live the Law of Consecration? (Tuesday 6 May, 2025)
In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today, members no longer deed their property to the Church and receive in return a written stewardship for their property. However, that does not mean Saints do not live the law of consecration today, as it has never been rescinded.Acting the bully in Fairview, Texas? (Tuesday 6 May, 2025)
The Fairview city council has evidently suggested — pretty openly — that it was essentially coerced into accepting the greatly downsized temple plan offered by the Church, solely because it feared that its stance would not prevail in court. It was, the critics say, a matter of vicious and coercive “bullying”. But was it?From Healing to Happily Ever After: Why Mid-Singles Must Take the Leap Into Love (Monday 5 May, 2025)
People find all sorts of contorted strategies attempting to find love without risk. But risk is the price of admission.VIDEO: Beautiful Song Explores All That We Have “Because He Lives” (Monday 5 May, 2025)
Enjoy this new song by Nik Day, Darla Day, and Carrie Yost, which appeared on the Church's Strive to Be channel for Easter.Camille N. Johnson Calls Young Adults to be Stewards (Monday 5 May, 2025)
Sister Camille N. Johnson extended a personal invitation to the young adults, “Friends, we need you! Seek revelation and use your gifts and talents to bless the future of all God’s children.”The Respectability Trap: Saints, Status, and the Cost of Acceptance (Sunday 4 May, 2025)
Can believers thrive in a world that disdains their faith? Their strength lies in embracing outsider status.Music, Faith, and Community: Cache Valley’s Interfaith Noon Concert Series Uplifts Everyone (Sunday 4 May, 2025)
The Logan Tabernacle Interfaith Concert and Lecture series, now entering its third season under the dedicated leadership of Carol Foht (a retired realtor from Iowa) and sponsored by Cache Community Connections, is far more than a collection of musical performances—it's a testament to the power of community, connection, and shared faith.Rising from Ashes: BYU–Hawaii’s Hoʻolōkahi Chamber Choir to Premiere Worldwide Requiem at Carnegie Hall (Tuesday 29 April, 2025)
It’s one of New York’s oldest jokes: A lost and confused pedestrian somewhere on the streets of Manhattan stops another and asks, "How do I get to Carnegie Hall?" The man who is questioned thinks for a moment and replies, "Practice, practice, practice!"Perspective: National data doesn’t confirm popular distortions about Latter-day Saint women (Tuesday 29 April, 2025)
Both single and married Latter-day Saint women are significantly more likely to report a deep sense of spiritual peace and well-being — along with better happiness and family life, all of which are tied to higher levels of religiosity.An Update on the Renovation Progress at Temple Square (Tuesday 29 April, 2025)
Two new statues are placed on Temple Square as finish work inside historic temple continues.Why Is the Book of Mormon Such a Powerful Missionary Tool? (Monday 28 April, 2025)
When the Church was organized on April 6, 1830, eleven days after the Book of Mormon had first become available in the Grandin Bookstore, Joseph Smith received a revelation that explained why the Book of Mormon was such a critical prerequisite for the restoration of the Church.Parents Group Issues Urgent Warning as WSJ Report Reveals Meta’s AI Chatbots are Grooming & Sexually Exploiting Kids (Monday 28 April, 2025)
Meta AI, which is available to kids via WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, may engage in sexually exploitative grooming behaviors with users they perceive as children, according to both independent testing and a Wall Street Journal investigation.Meridian Author Joseph Grenny Honored with Utah Community Builder Award (Monday 28 April, 2025)
Joseph Grenny, who has just won the 2025 Utah Community Builder Award from the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, is the co-founder and board chairman of The Other Side Academy. This organization works with those who have been incarcerated who would like to change their lives, and the results have been remarkable.“Mormons and the Pew Religious Landscape Study” (Wednesday 23 April, 2025)
I recently had my students read through the 2023–2024 Pew Religious Landscape Study. My students’ prompt was pretty easy– they just had to find a couple interesting statistics and do a write-up. As I prepared for class, and did my own skimming, I unsurprisingly gravitated towards information on us Mormons. Eventually, I got sucked in…A Loaf for Me, and a Loaf for Thee (Monday 21 April, 2025)
“We’ve got all the fixens!” my grandpa said at our last dinner. “And Joe’s bread! Can’t be a Sunday dinner without Joe’s bread!” My parents happened to be in town that night, adding an extra layer of pride at his words. However, what they don’t know is that the loaf (or loaves) I bring aren’t my best work. That loaf is special and set aside for something different.It’s not just the religious conservative schools wondering now if they need to forgo federal funding (Monday 21 April, 2025)
As new pressure on higher ed comes from the political right, more liberal campuses are being forced to ask hard questions about federal funding that religious conservative campuses have grappled with for years.From Crisis to Connection: When Is it Objectification? (Monday 21 April, 2025)
Betrayed women often find themselves questioning if their partner is still lusting after or objectifying other women, sometimes years after trust was broken. It can be difficult to know if actions match the thoughts behind them. In this episode we discuss the warning signs of objectification and how those red flags can point to something unresolved in recovery.First Presidency Offers Condolences on the Passing of Pope Francis. (Monday 21 April, 2025)
The First Presidency Offers Condolences on the Passing of Pope Francis.My First True Taste of Easter (Wednesday 16 April, 2025)
My first true taste of Easter didn’t happen in the spring as you would expect. No, it occurred in December, decades ago, the day after my mother gave birth to her fifth child two months early. My young father gathered me and my three brothers around him and quietly told us the story of a baby boy--our little brother--who was born too early and lived for only nine hours.Easter’s Meaningfulness: Where the Rosary Meets the Restoration (Monday 14 April, 2025)
What happens when Catholic roots meet restored faith? Easter deepens through memory, sacrifice, and joy in the temple.Did the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible Rely on Scholarly Commentaries? (Monday 14 April, 2025)
In June 1830 —and with the Book of Mormon off the press and the Church organized—Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery began a second major translation project: the Bible. Equipped with a large King James Bible that they had purchased on October 8, 1829, Joseph and Oliver began going through the biblical text to make corrections and prophetic additions.Elder Kearon Dedicates the Auckland New Zealand Temple; Nairobi Temple Open House Begins (Monday 14 April, 2025)
Open house and dedication dates were also announced for two temples in South America.The Mesa Easter Pageant Celebrates the ‘Greater Love’ of Jesus Christ (Thursday 10 April, 2025)
For the 87th year, the world’s largest outdoor Easter pageant is taking place in Mesa, Arizona.Putting Children First and Meaning It! (Wednesday 9 April, 2025)
Society often claims to put children first, but look a little closer and you’ll see that all too often that is not the case. We live in an adult-centric culture where the well-being and fundamental needs of children are frequently sacrificed for adult preferences and conveniences.How Did Saints in Kirtland Testify of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection? (Tuesday 8 April, 2025)
In addition to the individuals that were witness to the resurrected Christ described in the Bible and Book of Mormon, multiple individuals in the restored Church of Jesus Christ have seen or spoken with the resurrected Savior. Latter-day Saints are familiar with the First Vision, but this was only the first of many miraculous manifestations in this dispensation.Beyond Tidying Up: How to Create a Spiritually Ordered Home (Tuesday 8 April, 2025)
Is there a difference between getting organized and establishing true order in your life?More Ways to Share the Messages of General Conference (Tuesday 8 April, 2025)
Here are the memes we published from Meridian Magazine for the Sunday morning and the Sunday afternoon sessions of General Conference. These are great reminders of the eternal truths and guidance and direction we received this past weekend. Please share as much as you want with your own social networks. Spread the good word!President Nelson announces 15 new temple locations in April 2025 general conference (Sunday 6 April, 2025)
The 15 temples makes a total of 200 he has announced in 7 years as President of the Church.New Area Seventies Sustained at the April 2025 General Conference Leadership Session (Thursday 3 April, 2025)
At the general conference leadership session on Thursday, April 3, 2025, 78 new Area Seventies were announced and presented for a sustaining vote. Another 57 Area Seventies will be released on or before August 1, 2025.Equal Partnership: The Celestial Model of Marriage in the Proclamation (Wednesday 2 April, 2025)
What defines equal partnership in marriage? It is mutual respect, shared leadership, and making decisions together in unity.VIDEO: Behind the Scenes of General Conference: Interpreters (Wednesday 2 April, 2025)
When a Church leader speaks at general conference, hundreds of interpreters are intensely focused on translating the message in over 100 languages for millions of listeners worldwide.New Statue Celebrates Women of Faith Through Christ’s Parable (Wednesday 2 April, 2025)
The ‘Five Wise Virgins’ statue is featured on Temple Square.When Mothering Is a Sacrifice: Feminism and the Lost Art of Consecration (Tuesday 1 April, 2025)
How does motherhood enrich life? In a world where pleasure-seeking rules, its deep joy and purpose shine through.Mental Health Minute: What it Means to Endure to the End (Tuesday 1 April, 2025)
"What does it mean to endure? I love this definition: to withstand with courage. Courage may be necessary for you to believe; it will at times be necessary as you obey. It will most certainly be required as you endure until that day when you will leave this mortal existence."Earthly Stewardship: A Look into the April 2025 World Report (Tuesday 1 April, 2025)
The upcoming edition of World Report features global efforts to care for the earth.Preside, Provide, Protect, and Partner: Fathers and the Family Proclamation (Monday 24 March, 2025)
What defines fatherhood? Fathers preside with love, provide for needs, and protect their families faithfully.Mia Love: My Last Wish for the America I Know (Monday 24 March, 2025)
In the last piece she wrote before her death, the late former Utah congresswoman took up her pen—not to say goodbye but to say thank you.Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith: Revised and Expanded Edition (Monday 24 March, 2025)
A new edition allows readers to compare the earliest-known sources with text attributed to Joseph Smith in the original TPJS.President Holland says individuals owe ancestors time and work in temples at rededication of Toronto’s house of the Lord (Sunday 23 March, 2025)
President Jeffrey R. Holland invites Latter-day Saints to progress from going through temples and strive to have the temple go through them.Echoes of Paul: Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ Across Generations (Wednesday 19 March, 2025)
The Apostle Paul endured trials, persecution, and hardships to share the message of Jesus Christ. Today, apostles and prophets continue that sacred work, testifying of Christ’s love and redeeming power. As we listen to their words, we receive spiritual guidance, protection, and strength to follow the Savior.Mental Health Minute: Important Questions to Ask Yourself When You’re Struggling (Tuesday 11 March, 2025)
As mental health professionals, we ask lots of questions to help our clients. The insights and understanding people gain from finding their own answers are more powerful than someone else providing the answers. Here are some questions we might ask ourselves in mentally trying times.What did Oliver Cowdery Look at When He Tried to Translate? (Tuesday 11 March, 2025)
Doctrine and Covenants 9 refers to a time when Oliver Cowdery had permission to attempt to translate the Book of Mormon. He “began to translate” (Doctrine and Covenants 9:5), but failed, apparently due to fear and lack of faith. But when he began translating, what was he doing?In Case You Missed It: See the Rootstech Discovery Day Live Session (Monday 10 March, 2025)
Families gathered for a session of inspired remarks and celebrated discovery, featuring Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Sister Kathy Andersen. There was also a surprise appearance from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland and a special performance by musical group The Piano Guys. In case you didn't get the chance to participate, now you still have the chance to watch.How churches can better help those struggling with pornography (Monday 10 March, 2025)
A breakout session at the 2025 Utah Coalition Against Pornography Conference explored the benefits of becoming a ‘healing church’.At RootsTech, Apostles Focus on Temple Growth and Covenants (Sunday 9 March, 2025)
President Jeffrey R. Holland joins Elder Neil L. Andersen and his wife, Kathy, at Family Discovery Day.Latter-day Saints and Toxic Perfectionism: What the Research Actually Says (Thursday 6 March, 2025)
Do members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints experience perfectionism at higher rates than others? That’s one question Justin Dyer, a professor of religious education at BYU, realized has not previously been studied.Mental Health Minute: Inward or Outward – Where Does the Arrow Point? (Wednesday 5 March, 2025)
Elder Bednar explained that the natural man is focused inward. He is self-absorbed, self-centered, and selfish. The spiritual man, Elder Bednar continued, personifies love, compassion, and service. The spiritual man is a true disciple of Jesus Christ.Hulu Takes Another Jab at the “Mormons” (Wednesday 5 March, 2025)
Every week, it seems, there’s a new Hulu or Netflix miniseries focused on Latter-day Saints — and these productions never seem to be positive, friendly, sympathetic, or even balanced. The latest of them — so far as I’m aware! — is Hulu’s Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke.Judgment, Modesty, and Identity: Navigating Reactions to Garment Changes (Tuesday 4 March, 2025)
How do changes to a sacred symbol like the temple garment reveal deeper concerns about judgment, modesty, and identity within the faith community?Joseph Smith’s Bright and Enlightened Mind (Tuesday 4 March, 2025)
Although the Prophet Joseph Smith had a limited formal education, he possessed a native curiosity and was simply brilliant in the ideas he contemplated.“Family Name Assist” Simplifies Temple and Family History Work (Tuesday 4 March, 2025)
Using Family Name Assist, a bishop, elders quorum president, or counselor in the Relief Society presidency can help a new member or youth to be baptized for a deceased relative. It doesn’t require any family history research experience or building a family tree.The Doctrine and Covenants and the Temple: The Worth of Souls (Monday 3 March, 2025)
"The worth of souls is great in the sight of God." Consider how many souls you can bring to the Lord in the temple. You can bring as many as you have time for! There’s no limit to the work of salvation you can do in the temple.How to Stay Safe on Social Media (Monday 3 March, 2025)
Be mindful of what you post online. Some things about your life are good to share on social media, but below is a list of some things you shouldn’t post online to keep you and your family safe.Temple Square Renovation Update: February 2025 (Monday 3 March, 2025)
Open house celebration dates announced for the Salt Lake Temple and area south of Tabernacle reopens to the public.Mental Health Minute: The Mind is Like a Stage (Sunday 2 March, 2025)
How often do we worry that our thoughts will condemn us?VIDEO: Is There Any Hope Left in the World? (Sunday 2 March, 2025)
Life can feel heavy, and the path ahead may seem unclear, but you are never walking it alone. God sees you.Stewardship of Tithing Funds: Recent Court Ruling Acknowledges Church Integrity (Thursday 27 February, 2025)
Throughout the history of the Church, whether in times of financial scarcity or plenty, few things are of greater concern or given greater care by Church leaders than the use of consecrated tithing donations.Ten Ways to Show Real Love (Wednesday 26 February, 2025)
Have you ever fallen in love with a person? Perhaps some of the insights from that experience can help you fall in love with this practice.How to Submit Names to the Temple Prayer Roll Online (Wednesday 26 February, 2025)
In temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, members pray for others who are sick or otherwise afflicted. In addition to submitting a name in person when you attend the temple, Church systems let you submit names to the temple prayer role in the following ways.Decline of Christianity in the U.S. Has Slowed, May Have Leveled Off (Wednesday 26 February, 2025)
After many years of steady decline, the share of Americans who identify as Christians shows signs of leveling off – at least temporarily – at slightly above six-in-ten, according to a massive new Pew Research Center survey of 36,908 U.S. adults.#GreaterLove: Join the Church’s 2025 Easter Initiative (Tuesday 25 February, 2025)
Here are three ways members of the Church can participate in celebrating and sharing the message of Easter.Why Does Jesus Have So Many Names in the Doctrine and Covenants? (Tuesday 25 February, 2025)
In these revelations, we find many descriptive names and titles of Jesus Christ. These names and titles are revealed not only to authenticate the revelations as scripture revealed through a prophet but also to teach about some aspect of “Jesus’ Godhood, character, and redeeming mission, emphasizing that which is essential.”Enjoy Your Flight by Being Prepared (Tuesday 25 February, 2025)
Winter is not the only time an airport may be shut down for long periods. An earthquake destroying roads and bridges, a hurricane mayhem on the roads and building failure, a mass power grid failure, there are so many other scenarios. Be the one who others envy by being prepared.Has Adultery gone Mainstream? (Thursday 20 February, 2025)
Why would our views on adultery and infidelity be of any significant importance? Because strong marriages and families are a fundamental part of healthy, thriving societies. And while studies show that divorce rates may be on the decline (as is marriage in general), they also indicate that roughly 55% percent of divorces are due to infidelity and cheating.Your Hardest Family Question: My marriage is in limbo (Thursday 20 February, 2025)
My wife asked me to leave our home over a year ago. She says she doesn’t want to reconcile but isn’t interested in divorce – we’ve been married 32 years and have 4 kids. I don’t want a divorce but hate being in limbo. I rarely see her nor do I hear from her except an occasional email.Women of the Restoration: Influence Beyond the Stand (Wednesday 19 February, 2025)
How does women's visibility shape the Restoration? Prophetic insight reveals their key role in the Church’s progress.Fences and Ambulances: Saving our Youth through Church Education (Wednesday 19 February, 2025)
Because of my calling, I was assigned to attend the annual worldwide Church Education training broadcast for seminary and institute teachers. As I watched the broadcast, I was reminded of Joseph Malin’s famous poem “The Ambulance Down in the Valley.”Q&A with Napoleon Dynamite Actor Jon Heder, 20 Years After the Film (Wednesday 19 February, 2025)
I interviewed the star of the legendary indie comedy "Napoleon Dynamite" about his career, his faith, and the project he's most proud of (which I guarantee you haven't heard of).Why Did the Three Witnesses Select the First Twelve Apostles? (Tuesday 18 February, 2025)
Among the many vital aspects of Church governance that were restored in the early years of the Church’s history, the restoration of the apostleship and organization of the Twelve stands apart as one of the truly momentous occasions. Many may not be aware, however, that the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon played a key role in selecting the initial Twelve Apostles in this dispensation.Mental Health Minute: Tips for Handling the Daily Schedule of a Missionary (Tuesday 18 February, 2025)
Many years ago, I started a job where our boss said “Good news! Here we work only half a day!” He smiled and said, “Go ahead and pick the twelve hours you want to work!” As missionaries begin training at the MTC, they are suddenly immersed into a training environment that begins at 9am and ends at 9pm. Pretty intense “half days!”Locations Announced for Temples in Mexico and the Philippines (Tuesday 18 February, 2025)
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Lethbridge Alberta Temple is announced.The Unique Challenges of Latter-day Saint Mid-Single Men (Monday 17 February, 2025)
For most men, divorce means not only the loss of a companion, but also the loss of daily contact with his children. If you are in this situation, you know the rage that sometimes burns inside a person who is told in so many ways by society, by the woman he once loved, by the legal system and, regrettably, even by our Latter-day Saint culture, that he is not important to his children except as a source of money.President Oaks’ Easter Reflection on Christ’s Sacrifice and Resurrection (Monday 17 February, 2025)
In a new video message, President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints urges Church members and friends of the faith to study Christ’s teachings and establish Christ-centered Easter traditions.VIDEO: Understand More About Oliver Cowdery as a Witness (Wednesday 12 February, 2025)
Oliver Cowdery appeared as an essential help to Joseph Smith in the early days of the Restoration when Joseph was struggling. His journey from there, and their relationship, had ups and downs, but he never denied his witness.Are You Prepared For an Auto Accident? (Wednesday 12 February, 2025)
Emergencies don’t always come in the form we expect, but sometimes they come in ordinary ways to remind us that our goal is actually not to have every conceivable remedy in the trunk of our car, but to possess some specific knowledge and the confidence that comes from a spirit of self-reliance.Mental Health Minute: Are We Too Comfortable? (Tuesday 11 February, 2025)
How often does the Lord, who loves us, take us out of our comfort zone to help us learn and grow and progress and become refined?Lost it All? How to Rebuild Financial Stability After Divorce (Monday 10 February, 2025)
“When you have the strength and determination to face the facts, you can achieve anything. It's when we run and hide that we dig ourselves holes that can be excruciating to climb out of.” Unfortunately, many divorcees (including me) run and hide from the financial problems that have led to or resulted from their divorces.How Did Hyrum Smith Help Bring Forth the Book of Mormon? (Monday 10 February, 2025)
In late May or early June 1829, Hyrum Smith visited his brother Joseph in Harmony, Pennsylvania. At this time, Joseph and Oliver Cowdery were nearly finished translating the gold plates. More pertinent to Hyrum’s visit, however, was the news of the recent visitation of John the Baptist on May 15 to restore the Aaronic Priesthood.Explore Upcoming RootsTech Classes and Build Your Schedule (Monday 10 February, 2025)
RootsTech, by FamilySearch, is the family discovery event of the year, with many classes to help you uncover your family story. Check out what’s available starting March 6 in these curated class lists.Come Follow Me #6: “That You May Come off Conqueror”, Doctrine and Covenants 10-11 (Sunday 9 February, 2025)
As you read the Doctrine and Covenants, section 10 seems out of place chronologically. Since it talks about Martin Harris and the translation of the 116 pages, shouldn’t it come after Section 3? What happened? We’ll tell you today.VIDEO: What Alyssa Grenfell Doesn’t Tell You (Sunday 9 February, 2025)
Alyssa Grenfell, Mormon Stories, Life Take Two and other anti-mormon channels have a lot to say about Latter-day Saint (Mormon) Women. But maybe they are not telling you the whole story.Risk it or kick it? BYU research analyzes NFL coaches’ risk tolerance on fourth down (Sunday 9 February, 2025)
BYU study reveals how NFL coaches, including Super Bowl contenders Andy Reid and Nick Sirianni, weigh risk on fourth down.VIDEO: What does it mean to be a witness? (Tuesday 4 February, 2025)
This is Episode 17 of a series compiled from the many interviews conducted during the course of the Witnesses film project. These individuals answer questions or address accusations against the witnesses, also helping viewers understand the context of the times in which the witnesses lived.VIDEO: Why Do We Need a Church? (Tuesday 4 February, 2025)
Listen as President Dallin H. Oaks gives an insightful answer to this common and difficult question.Should You Confront Your Parents About Your Childhood? (Tuesday 4 February, 2025)
A crucial developmental step in adulthood is differentiating from your first family; taking the things that worked from your childhood and leaving behind what didn’t. In today’s episode we discuss the importance of these conversations between parents and their adult children.Why Are the Witnesses to the Book of Mormon Translation Reliable? (Tuesday 4 February, 2025)
While each witness to the translation of the Book of Mormon mentioned different details or occasionally conflated a few details as they remembered events they had seen decades ago, each paints a consistent picture of the process of the Book of Mormon’s translation.At Global Summit, Elder Soares Advocates for Peace Through Religious Freedom (Tuesday 4 February, 2025)
The Apostle also participates in a Q&A with a Baptist pastor.Why Did Martin Harris Sometimes Say He Saw the Plates with Spiritual Eyes? (Wednesday 29 January, 2025)
When Martin Harris was finally granted a view of the gold plates in June 1829, he exclaimed with excitement, “’Tis enough! ’Tis enough! Mine eyes have beheld! Mine eyes have beheld!” Soon thereafter, however, some of Martin’s skeptical neighbors began reporting that Martin would say he saw the angel and the plates with “spiritual eyes” or the “eye of faith” when he was questioned about the experience.What Leaders Can Learn from Henry Kissinger’s Relentless Pursuit of Excellence (Wednesday 29 January, 2025)
While much of Kissinger’s activity was public, his private approach to life could be instructive as well. One incident is worth noting by anyone interested in leadership.Faith, Football, and Family: Does “Green and Gold” Deliver? (Wednesday 29 January, 2025)
“Green and Gold,” the newest film looking to capitalize on the faith and family demographic, is halfway to a winning movie.Lessons Learned: Five Day Kits (Wednesday 29 January, 2025)
We have recently seen horrendous flooding in North Carolina and Tennessee and unbelievable fires in California. If we are paying attention, there is much we can learn. Today we look at lessons learned as they apply to Five Day kits.Mental Health Minute: The Speed of Sound (Wednesday 29 January, 2025)
How often do we hear or listen at the speed of sound? Can we hear at the speed of the younger generation? Can we feel and understand as well as hear? Are we patient with the speed of communication with our spouse? Our parents? Our children?“Brave the Dark”: A Well-Meaning Film That Misses the Mark (Wednesday 29 January, 2025)
“Brave the Dark” is about a high school kid, so depraved, so lost in the vulgarities of the world, that he wears a leather jacket. And anyone who has ever watched “Grease” or “Happy Days” knows that a leather jacket means nothing but trouble. But don’t worry, by the end, he’s wearing a pullover sweater, so it all turns out okay.Come Follow Me Podcast #4: Doctrine and Covenants 3-5 “My Work Shall Go Forth” (Sunday 26 January, 2025)
Joseph does not shy away from humbly including Section 3 in the Doctrine and Covenants, where he is severely chastened by the Lord for a failing. He could have hid it or polished it up to preserve his image, but because he is so honest, we not only get to see firsthand, the spiritual development of a prophet, but he also gives us all a deep teaching: “You should not have feared man more than God” (Doctrine and Covenants 3:7).How Faith Impacts Parenting: Finding Hope, Peace, and Connection (Sunday 26 January, 2025)
As parents, we often feel the pressure to be perfect and to shape our children into ideal individuals. Yet, the reality of our imperfections, paired with the struggles of raising imperfect children, can lead to frustration, power struggles, and emotional exhaustion. The good news is that faith has the power to transform not just our parenting but also our hearts and homes.VIDEO: What Were the Kinderhook Plates? (Sunday 26 January, 2025)
In 1843, six men claimed to have unearthed ancient metal plates from a burial mound. They were eventually brought to Joseph Smith. Critics have claimed Joseph was fooled by what was eventually revealed to be a fraud. What is the truth of this claim?The Dangerous Allure of Digital Companions (Wednesday 22 January, 2025)
Why do AI companions pose a threat? They draw individuals into self-focused worlds, replacing genuine connection with emotional detachment.Why Netflix’s “Back in Action” Is Perfect for a Friday Night Escape (Wednesday 22 January, 2025)
“Back in Action” is a date night movie reverse-engineered. He wants action, she wants romance? Want a little bit of escapism and winking acknowledgment of the daily realities? How about some of your favorite movie stars from when you were a teenager? Netflix often gets dragged because its films feel formulaic. But when they get the formula right, it can’t help but satisfy.Learn-it-all or Know-it-all: Which Do You Want to Be? (Wednesday 22 January, 2025)
In four decades of coaching and training leaders, I’ve noticed some consistent trends in those who rise to the top: they ask thoughtful questions, they listen carefully to the answers, and they have voracious appetites for ideas. In other words, they are perpetual learners.The Heart’s Deception: Why Love is a Choice—Not Just a Feeling (Monday 20 January, 2025)
The belief that an intense attraction is the primary consideration in the decision to marry is so deeply rooted in our culture that choosing a partner based on anything else seems selfish, absurd, or even downright foolish. I believe we need to reexamine the idea that we ought to religiously follow our hearts and make the decisions our hearts suggest.Healing Our Relationship with Food (Monday 20 January, 2025)
We encounter food and eating more often that most other activities in our lives, yet it can be one of the most contentious rituals we participate in. In this episode we are pleased to welcome Emily Fonnesbeck, registered dietician, podcast host, and co-founder of Eat Confident Co. to discuss how our relationship with food often mirrors other aspects of our lives.VIDEO: Faith Over Fear–Walking the Path of Peace (Monday 20 January, 2025)
In the face of life’s hardships, the promise remains: joy and peace await those who choose faith over fear and hope over despair. Jesus Christ’s love offers strength to endure, healing for our wounds, and a path to rise above life’s challenges with grace and courage.Exploring the Ancient Origins of Sacrament Prayers in the Book of Mormon (Monday 20 January, 2025)
I want to focus on an element of our regular weekly worship service whose Nephite origin is, I suspect, often forgotten.VIDEO: Elder Ulisses Soares “Heard a Voice From Heaven” After Losing Two Children (Wednesday 15 January, 2025)
Life’s journey is filled with both moments of profound joy and heart-wrenching sorrow. In our deepest trials, we often find ourselves asking, “How can I endure this?”Discover Your True North (Wednesday 15 January, 2025)
For any leader at any level in any organization, clarity of purpose is a critical ingredient of success. In other words, you must know where you’re headed and why you’re headed there. A compass provides the ideal metaphor. Just as a compass points toward a magnetic field, your personal “true north” directs your path and pulls you forward.The High Demands of the Devoted: “Why Do They Do It?” (Monday 13 January, 2025)
How do faith demands become blessings? Devotion fosters stronger bonds with God, family, and community, transforming sacrifices into profound rewards.“The Dews of Heaven”–New Podcast Series from Breck England and Sam Bracken (Monday 13 January, 2025)
Join us for our new podcast series THE DEWS OF HEAVEN, in which we discuss how to read the Doctrine and Covenants through the lens of the temple.A Curious Story from the (Real) Life of Mark Twain (Monday 13 January, 2025)
Here is a curious story that I came across while reading Deborah Blum, Ghost Hunters: William James and the Search for Scientific Proof of Life After Death (Penguin. 2007) roughly a year ago. You may recall the pen name that was later used by Samuel Clemens. This is an episode from his life.Netflix’s American Primeval: The Prejudiced Fiction of Brigham Young (Sunday 12 January, 2025)
Can Netflix's 'American Primeval' justify its fictional Brigham Young? No, it fosters cultural bias under artistic license.The Words Which I Had Often Heard My Father Speak (Sunday 12 January, 2025)
An inconsequential sequence of events had a twist ending that provided me with a clearer understanding of the role of a parent in our children’s spiritual development and progress.FamilySearch Improvements Coming in 2025 (Sunday 12 January, 2025)
In 2025, FamilySearch is planning to provide more free genealogy records and more fun family experiences. There will also be improvements in FamilySearch records, the FamilySearch website, and FamilySearch apps. The following is a quick summary of what to expect in 2025.How Missing Church is Missing Out (Wednesday 8 January, 2025)
When I was fourteen, I told Dad that I didn’t want to go to church that day. “I don’t get anything out of it,” I said. He replied, “Sis, it’s not always about what you get, but about what you give.” He taught me that someone else needed me there on Sunday. He taught me that there are several ways that attending church is about what you give.Come and Help in Packing One Million Meals for the Utah Food Bank (Sunday 5 January, 2025)
Food insecurity is a global challenge. Within Utah alone, it affects 415,000 Utahns, including 1 in 6 children. Addressing it requires a community-wide response, and you are invited to help curb this issue at the Silicon Slopes Summit 2025 as it holds its fifth annual service project: packing one million meals for the Utah Food Bank.The Personal Experiences Behind Moroni’s Testimony (Sunday 29 December, 2024)
Few writers in the Book of Mormon are as personal as Moroni. So, why would Moroni precede this final testimony with instructions that seem to have little to do with him or his current situation?Tell Your Teens a Truth They’ve Been Waiting to Hear (Sunday 29 December, 2024)
Why are the teen years so hard for parents and teens to navigate? Is there a way to find common ground and approach these years as a team?Mission President Passes Away in France (Sunday 29 December, 2024)
"We are saddened to announce that President Jason Michael Soulier, serving in the France Lyon Mission, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Saturday, December 28, 2024."How the Atonement of Jesus Christ Enables us to be “At One” with Family Members During the Holidays (Thursday 26 December, 2024)
Spending time with family members may be a challenge when there are unresolved conflicts between family members. Some people have the ability to bite their tongue, or put on a happy face, whether or not they are happy to see one another. However, the spirit of Christmas invites us to love one another sincerely, without pretense, and to demonstrate that love when we are together.How Is the Revelation of the Magi Similar to the Book of Mormon’s Prophecies of Christ? (Thursday 26 December, 2024)
Although the Revelation of the Magi likely dates to the mid-second or early third century AD, it nonetheless reflects ideas that are authentic to early Christian belief. Furthermore, studying early Christian literature can provide useful insights into the Book of Mormon, as Hugh Nibley demonstrated when comparing the Book of Mormon with the forty-day literature of the Old World.The Nativity, According to Luke (Monday 23 December, 2024)
It is important to remember that the four Gospels were not combined together into a single canonical book until centuries after they were written. Each Gospel was intended to be read separately, and by reading them independently, we can begin to see the special purpose for which each was written.A Special Christmas Podcast from Scot and Maurine Proctor (Sunday 22 December, 2024)
When we think of Christmas, we think of a star over the stable, but we don’t know exactly what that star was. Was it a comet that suddenly appeared in the sky and hung for a bit over Bethlehem? Was it a supernova, a sudden explosion that also gave the Nephites a day, a night and a day without darkness? Or was it simply a sign or an astronomical event, that only studied star watchers could note? It is hard to say.Christ-Centered in a Noisy World (Sunday 22 December, 2024)
We recently went to a brightly lit Christmas extravaganza that had lively music and every bell and whistle that could make childish eyes light up, but it was missing the most essential thing. There was no message, no symbol, no scenario, no hint of the Christ child. Meridian is determined to provide a counterpoint to an increasingly secular world.May Christ Lift Thee Up (Sunday 22 December, 2024)
The Book of Mormon leaves us with the prayer that Christ may lift us up. In this episode, we see how the temple is the key to exaltation, the ultimate "lifting up."“Mitt Romney Reflects on His Storied Career as He Prepares to Leave Politics” (Thursday 19 December, 2024)
"His farewell address—and entire political outlook—are steeped in teachings of his faith."Why Did Moroni Seal the Plates in a Stone Box? (Wednesday 18 December, 2024)
As Moroni concludes his portion of the Book of Mormon, and indeed the entire book itself, he announces his intent to “seal up these records”. Moroni did not specify how he planned to seal up the record, but when he returned as an angel to reveal the plates to Joseph Smith, the record was found “deposited in a stone box . . . formed by laying stones together in some kind of cement”.Polarized? Consider Conversations Worth Having (Wednesday 18 December, 2024)
Whatever happened to respect in our private and public interactions? Where and when did we lose the willingness to exercise compassion toward someone with a different viewpoint? Where and when did we forget how (or why) to recognize each other’s humanity?Emotional Safety in Relationships (Sunday 15 December, 2024)
Most of us can describe what it means to be physically safe, or to provide physical safety for another person. But are we able to understand and provide emotional safety for our partner?VIDEO: God is in Relentless Pursuit of You (Sunday 15 December, 2024)
Do you ever feel like you’ll never be enough or that Christ’s infinite love doesn’t apply to you? God’s plan is clear: He wants all His children to return to Him.Congratulations or Condolences? (Thursday 12 December, 2024)
My husband was recently called to serve as the president of our stake. He is 65 years old and has already served as a mission president, a bishop (twice), a branch president, in a stake presidency, among numerous other callings. When word got around about the calling, we heard comments such as, “Boy, you can’t catch a break, can you?” or “Congratulations….I mean condolences.” Here's the problem with that.Mental Health Minute: Fear Not (Wednesday 11 December, 2024)
When the angel Gabriel visited Mary to let her know she was chosen to be the mother of the Son of God, he told her “Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God…” That important message of "Fear not" is repeated again and again.“Red One” Blends Christmas Spirit with Marvel-Style Action (Wednesday 11 December, 2024)
"Red One", the new Christmas action comedy starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans rescuing a kidnapped Santa Claus, is an absurd movie. You probably didn’t need me to tell you that. But what you might not know is that it’s also a lot more fun than an idea that ridiculous has any right to be.The Challenge of Choosing Joy (Monday 9 December, 2024)
How are we to understand an existence where our purpose is to experience joy, when the realities of our daily life often seem calculated to bring misery?Meridian Comes to You for Free. But it’s Not Free (Monday 9 December, 2024)
Meridian is kind of a miracle. We originally thought we would publish an every-other-month paper magazine and 26 years ago it just came together into the earliest online E-Magazine for Latter-day Saints. Not only that, but it quickly ended up being a five-days-a week magazine with a pool of fabulous writers. Each weekday is a new edition.The Values of the Stripling Warriors Taught in a New Fiction Book (Monday 9 December, 2024)
I knew that these values would solve both long-term and short-term difficulties, so I was anxious to be effective in communicating them. But the polite nod, with an occasional uh, huh and the glazed eyes let me know that I was missing something.Come Follow Me Podcast #49: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”, Moroni 1-6 (Monday 2 December, 2024)
Moroni did not know when he would die, attacked by Lamanites or some other deadly surprise, in his 36-year wandering. He tells his latter-day readers goodbye more than once on the plates. Yet even living with that insecurity, not knowing his own mortal future, Moroni trudges on with absolute faith.How an Apple Pie Tells the Story of the Universe (Monday 2 December, 2024)
“If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch,” the late American astronomer and science popularizer Carl Sagan once quipped, “you must first invent the universe.” Where do apple trees come from, ultimately? The origin of life on Earth as a whole remains a mystery; science doesn’t know how or whence it arose. But apples are very far from simple or primitive organisms.“That Christmas”: Not Quite Timeless, But Still Enjoyable (Monday 2 December, 2024)
“What if we made Love Actually, but for kids?” Simon Otto seems to be asking in his feature directorial debut "That Christmas".Read the First Presidency’s 2024 Christmas Message (Sunday 1 December, 2024)
Plus, see this year's video invitation to Light the World this Christmas season.Sacred Covenants vs. Secret Combinations (Sunday 1 December, 2024)
The latest episode of the "Encircled in the Arms of His Love" Podcast is about the sacred nature of covenants with the Lord in contrast to "secret combinations."“Moana 2” Brings Back Adventure, Friendship, and a Powerful Message (Sunday 1 December, 2024)
Moana 2 is somehow better than the first because it reaches for and connects with that mythic part of our hearts.Thanksgiving in the Book of Mormon (Tuesday 26 November, 2024)
The Book of Mormon uses the word thanksgiving in six different places. Ten additional usages of thank or thanks are paired with the words give, giving, or gave, so even though the word "thanksgiving" is not explicitly mentioned, its meaning is.Accepting the Invitation (Monday 25 November, 2024)
The Thanksgiving setting reminds me of another gathering around a table, with a special meal prepared for invited guests. In this case The Savior was the host. His apostles had been invited to attend what we now call the “last supper.” I don’t know if they understood completely that this would be the very last time they would all gather together.Lessons from Beethoven on Tragedy and Triumph and Hope (Monday 25 November, 2024)
Human potential is never fully realized in mortality. Too often, in fact, it’s scarcely realized at all. Consider Ludwig van Beethoven, certainly among the foremost composers of all time, perhaps indeed the very greatest.Why Were Scholars Originally Critical of the Book of Ether? (Monday 25 November, 2024)
On my mission, I became deeply familiar with the Jaredites by studying the Book of Mormon. But when I came home, I began to consider the strangeness someone on the mission had expressed about this book. Some ideas he shared gave me a starting point for my search.A Meditation on the Passage of Time (Thursday 21 November, 2024)
“We are but a moment’s sunlight, fading in the grass,” run the lyrics of a 1967 song that I used to sing, strumming along on my twelve-string. And I really felt it, even then.Mental Health Minute: Criticism Never Faileth (Wednesday 20 November, 2024)
How can we turn criticism into learning experiences? How can we give and receive feedback and develop it as a tool for strengthening relationships? I would suggest that instead of attacks of criticism, we can counsel together without being harsh, sharp, or mean, and actually transform such discussions into acts of caring and love. These can be councils of love.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”, Ether 12-15 (Wednesday 20 November, 2024)
Moroni, who abridged this portion of the account, notes that he could not write even the hundredth part even of Ether’s account, but that which he shares with us of Ether’s words, his prophecies and his own commentary provides a wonderful illumination into the nature of God and Godliness.Come Follow Me Podcast #47: “That Evil May be Done Away”, Ether 6-11 (Thursday 14 November, 2024)
We go to a scene of spirits in the premortal world, anticipating. with perhaps some concern, their descent to a darkened world. We knew we would be taking a journey and must have wondered how we could make it across the wilderness where so much would be insecure.Your Hardest Family Question: I’m on my deathbed and my daughter won’t talk to me (Thursday 14 November, 2024)
My time here on earth is limited due to a terminal illness and I am not sure what else I can do in the time that I have. I have written her letters when she won’t communicate with me, but she does not respond. She has many good redeemable qualities and I miss the good parts of her in my life. What can I do?Week Two: A Helpful Phrase to Reframe Your Complaints into Joys (Thursday 14 November, 2024)
My favorite tip that I recently heard to cultivate gratitude is using this special phrase that really changes your perspective on what might otherwise be a complaint.Are there ideas about what the Jaredites might look like? (Wednesday 13 November, 2024)
I had never considered the question of what the Jaredites might have looked like before, and it gave me something to think about. The reason I had never pondered it at great length was because I thought there was no way of knowing. But I started my search and began coming across some things that might give us some insights.Mental Health Minute: Learning to Handle a Change of Season (Wednesday 13 November, 2024)
How often in our lives have we had to press forward in new experiences that are different than we had pictured? What are some things that helped? What have we learned from our parents and grandparents about adapting to new experiences including changes in our homes, our communities, our country, and in the world?Why “Heretic” Fails as a Critique of Religion and as a Movie (Friday 8 November, 2024)
Heretic is a boring movie that feels like watching a rejected lecture on atheism.Your Hardest Family Question: My husband is hooked on televised sports (Friday 8 November, 2024)
My question is how to deal with the problem of husbands “hooked” on TV sports that spend hours each week year round resulting in wives who feel resentful that he prefers spending his time that way than with her? Is there a compromise that might be acceptable to both parties? Do men realize how unhappy it makes their wives but they don’t care?Church Video for Children About Tithing (Friday 8 November, 2024)
Show your children the video “Miguel’s Choice | Growing Faith” to help prepare them for the tithing declaration meeting with your bishop. In the video, Miguel learns how to show faith in Jesus Christ by paying tithing.An Apostolic Invitation: Embrace Moral Agency and Righteous Work in the Age of AI (Monday 4 November, 2024)
Elder Bednar speaks to young adults worldwide about the perils and possibilities of technology.Why Are There Men Named Alma in the Book of Mormon? (Sunday 3 November, 2024)
The use of the name Alma in the Book of Mormon has long been a point of criticism. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, some detractors began to identify the name Alma and others in the Book of Mormon as “philologically impossible,” unbiblical, and of Latin origin.The Temple and Mormon 1-6: “It All Starts with the Pearls” (Sunday 3 November, 2024)
In Mormon 1-6, the Nephite nation was destroyed because they violated their temple covenants. See how it all started with the "wearing of pearls."Single Men Over 40 Can Now Serve Full Time Missions (Sunday 3 November, 2024)
Opportunities for single sisters are also expanding.Come Follow Me Podcast #45: “I Speak unto You as if Ye were Present”, Mormon 7-9 (Friday 1 November, 2024)
As we start our studies today on Mormon 7-9, Moroni has taken over the record from his father and is in a tragic position. He has seen his culture destroyed and he is the last survivor of what was once a thriving world. Could anything be sadder than this?Your Hardest Family Question: My husband is financially irresponsible (Thursday 31 October, 2024)
When we got married, I liked to shop and spend money but I have changed and now I am frugal. I try to be understanding and I don’t get mad at him anymore to his face, but it’s difficult at times to control my negative thoughts towards him.Mental Health Minute: Check the Label (Thursday 31 October, 2024)
How often do we label ourselves? How often do we label others? What are we trying to accomplish? What are we running to or running from? How will it make a difference?A House Divided Cannot Stand (Tuesday 29 October, 2024)
I worked as an officer in California's penal system for 27 years. The understanding was always had that the inmates had the ability at any time to take over the prisons, if they did one thing: unified. The administration secretly encouraged division in order to maintain their tenuous control and to keep the inmates believing they were powerless to effect change. We are seeing a similar situation in society now.How Did the Nephites Recognize Jesus Christ as Having Been Sacrificed for the World? (Tuesday 29 October, 2024)
If the Nephites’ neighbors practiced human sacrifice throughout Book of Mormon times, it can contextualize how the Lord was able to use the cultural language of the New World to discuss His own atoning sacrifice and help the Nephites better understand that sacrifice as having been done on their behalf.New Book Explores How Modern Culture’s Attack on Marriage Affects Our Children’s Future (Tuesday 29 October, 2024)
The push to unwind traditional social scripts around marriage, fidelity, commitment, and procreation hasn’t just been a question of individual fulfillment, but also has had widespread social consequences.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “I Would That I Could Persuade All … to Repent”, Mormon 1-6 (Wednesday 23 October, 2024)
The book we have the privilege of studying together this year is thanks in large part to the efforts and obedience of a single man whose life story is told in brief this week. Much like Joseph Smith, Mormon was called as a young man to become an instrument in the Lord’s hands to bring God’s word to his people. Unlike Joseph though, Mormon’s task was not to open a dispensation but to close one in faithfulness.What Are Your Plan B and C to Survive a Disaster? (Tuesday 22 October, 2024)
As we have watched in horror the disasters of the past few weeks, we wonder how we can help, how could they have been more prepared and how can we learn from these disasters? We have learned disasters can happen anywhere. We have learned even 1,000-year disasters can and will happen.Why Does Jesus Invite All to “Come unto Me”? (Tuesday 22 October, 2024)
One of the most central and yet perplexing questions in Christianity is what one must do to be saved. Jesus’s gospel, meaning “good news,” is that all people can be saved from both sin and death, but the requirements for His sacrifice to be applied to individual lives have been long debated.VIDEO: The Heart of the Gospel–Love God and Neighbor (Tuesday 22 October, 2024)
The two great commandments work together in complete harmony. Balance and equal devotion to both build our personal spiritual bridge devoted to Heavenly Father. We look upward to love the Lord and outward to love our neighbor.House of the Lord in Salvador, Brazil, dedicated to help Saints prepare for the Second Coming (Monday 21 October, 2024)
Elder Neil L. Andersen expresses gratitude for a house of the Lord where many have ‘Salvador’ written on their hearts.Are You a Workaholic? Don’t Wear It As a Badge of Honor (Thursday 17 October, 2024)
In this rush-rush, competitive world, it’s easy to succumb to one of the most dangerous conditions of our time—workaholism.Come Follow Me for Sunday School: “There Could Not Be a Happier People”, 3 Nephi 27 – 4 Nephi (Wednesday 16 October, 2024)
After two days of rich spiritual experiences, the resurrected Christ appeared once again to his “other sheep. As 3 Nephi 27 opens, we see the Nephite Apostles gathered together in “mighty prayer and fasting.” When Jesus appeared, he asked them, “What will ye that I shall give unto you?” Imagine being asked that question!Book Chat with Julie: Spooky Romances and Boo-tiful Food (Wednesday 16 October, 2024)
Are you ready to get ghosted this month? I have two recommendations for you that both feature “ghosts” and one that is a book you’ll want to gift yourself this fall.Latter-day Saint investment auxiliary Farmland Reserve agrees to buy 46 farms in eight states (Monday 14 October, 2024)
The sale includes corn, soybean, cotton, rice, pea and peanut farms from the East Coast to the Midwest for a purchase price of $289 million.God’s Trophies (Monday 14 October, 2024)
Quite often something that is almost too good to be true. A sunset. A field of wildflowers. A starry night. A delectable peach. Over the years, when we ran into a wonder of nature that shocked us with its magnificence, my wife and I would say, “Somebody should get a trophy for that!” It was always clear who that somebody was.Building a Marriage-Centered Family (Monday 14 October, 2024)
Children undoubtedly require a massive amount of time and energy. Too often parents slowly fall into a child-centered marriage and the marriage relationship itself is put on the back burner. In this episode we discuss the need for a marriage-centered household. Doing so creates the optimal secure, healthy environment for children as they grow and learn relationship skills of their own.Picture This: Early Morning on the Smith Farm (Sunday 13 October, 2024)
The only farm in the world I have been to more often than Joseph and Lucy Mack Smith’s farm in Manchester Township, New York is my own boyhood home farm near Rolla, Missouri. The Smith Farm is full of wonder for me and is a place that provides texture, light and beauty for a photographer.The Associated Press’ Misleading Narrative on Las Vegas Temple (Sunday 13 October, 2024)
How did the AP misrepresent the popularity of the Las Vegas Temple? Their report ignored key facts, including majority support.VIDEO: Elder Ronald A. Rasband Testifies of the Power of the Book of Mormon (Sunday 13 October, 2024)
In this brief, but powerful video from the Church's YouTube channel, Elder Ronald A. Rasband's testimony of the Book of Mormon becomes even more vivid as illustrated with footage from his experiences testifying of the book in his ministry all over the world.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Ye Are the Children of the Covenant”, 3 Nephi 20-26 (Wednesday 9 October, 2024)
The ministry of Jesus Christ was divided into two parts: pre- and post-resurrection. In 3 Nephi, we are blessed to receive both parts, which He calls “the fulness of the gospel”.Bari Weiss: A Year of Revelations for Israel (Monday 7 October, 2024)
We expected Hamas to try to kill Jews. We didn’t expect Americans to celebrate when they did.Life in the Proving Drawer (Monday 7 October, 2024)
What can we do when we’re in hot water?A Surprising Story in General Conference (Monday 7 October, 2024)
It was in my hometown of Ponce, that a sister in the church, Célia Cruz Ayala, decided that she was going to give the Book of Mormon to a friend. She wrapped it and went to deliver this gift, more precious to her than diamonds or rubies. But on her way, a thief approached her...The Prophet Announces 17 New Temples in the Last Session of the October 2024 General Conference (Sunday 6 October, 2024)
As of this conference, The Church of Jesus Christ now has 367 houses of the Lord operating, announced or under construction.Meeting the Savior at the Temple (Sunday 6 October, 2024)
In 3 Nephi, 11-26, Jesus meets His people at the temple, introduces Himself, and provides them an endowment of instruction, healing, and love.Come, Follow Me Podcast #40: “I Am the Law, and the Light”, 3 Nephi 12-16 (Sunday 29 September, 2024)
The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most densely packed three chapters in all of holy writ. As an added bonus, when the Lord visited His other sheep in the ancient Americas, one of the first things He did was gave the same Sermon on the Mount text with some additional insights. When the Lord purposely repeats something, I think He really wants our attention!Picture This—The Mysterious Inverted Stars on the Nauvoo Temple (Sunday 29 September, 2024)
The most obvious symbols on this temple are the moonstones, the sunstones and the starstones. At first glance, a person quickly assumes the obvious meaning of these as representing the three degrees of glory. That is only partially correct. Let’s explore.How Can We “Be of Good Cheer” in the Middle of so Much Anxiety? (Sunday 29 September, 2024)
3 Nephi describes the turmoil preceding the coming of Christ. Our day is similar. So how can we "be of good cheer" in the middle of so much anxiety?Immersion Matters– Are We Still Immersed? (Wednesday 25 September, 2024)
How would you measure your commitment to the Lord?Regardless of Circumstances, What We Become is a Choice (Wednesday 25 September, 2024)
In today’s society, simple civility seems to be in troubling short supply. How can a leader (of a family, a team, an organization, or even a nation) foster civility?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “I am the Law and the Light”, 3 Nephi 12-16 (Wednesday 25 September, 2024)
Cookies must have the right ingredients, mixed in the proper order, and carefully prepared and baked. Similarly, the principles taught in 3 Nephi 12 may also be essential ingredients to discipleship and have an order for development in our lives.God Always Warns of Dangers Ahead (Tuesday 24 September, 2024)
You are the captain or your ship, the expert for your family. You can know how to prepare and where to find help and reliable answers. Now is not the time to rely on charts found on the internet, it is time to rely on the Lord.Mental Health Minute: Suicide Prevention (Tuesday 24 September, 2024)
When we were serving a mission at BYU-Hawaii and while serving as the Area Mental Health Advisor in the Africa West Area, I talked to many students and missionaries who had thoughts of suicide. Most of them did not have any intent to harm themselves, but they wondered what it would be like if their life “accidentally” ended now. Would they be free of pain, distress, sorrow, grief, and regret? At that moment, they felt very alone, helpless and hopeless.The Wild Robot: A Children’s Movie for the Parents (Tuesday 24 September, 2024)
Let me start with the plaudits: The Wild Robot is the most effectively emotional film since Inside Out. The Wild Robot will likely win the Oscar for Best Animated Picture. The Wild Robot is the Best DreamWorks film since How to Train Your Dragon. All of those plaudits are true, and you’ll likely hear them a lot. But here’s the bottom line: if you have kids, you will love watching this movie.Come Follow Me Podcast #39: “Arise and Come Forth Unto Me”, 3 Nephi 8-11 (Thursday 19 September, 2024)
How can you not be just thrilled with this week’s readings? The entire Book of Mormon has been centered on one Person—Jesus Christ, the Savior and Redeemer—and His coming to the earth and the promised visit to this righteous branch of the tribe of Joseph in the Americas. Lehi testified He would come. Nephi saw Him in vision that He would come--and in this week’s exciting readings—HE CAME!Your Hardest Family Question: How long do I stay in my marriage? (Thursday 19 September, 2024)
Can a marriage become dead, or is it simply my pride and fear of putting my all into the marriage once again to make it work? I don’t want to get divorced and become another welfare statistic.The Simple Truth about Biological Sex (Wednesday 18 September, 2024)
Science shows that male and female reproductive roles define sex despite rare anomalies.Jesus’ Invitation to Arise and Heal in 3 Nephi 8–11 (Wednesday 18 September, 2024)
The Nephites experienced “a great storm, such an one as never had been known in all the land” (3 Nephi 8:5). Storms of life can come out of nowhere, sometimes when we’re least expecting them. If we follow the prophet and our leaders, we can repent, hear the Lord’s voice in our lives, and find peace.Babies With Price Tags: Is Surrogacy a Good Thing? (Wednesday 18 September, 2024)
In January 2024, headlines were abuzz with the topic of surrogacy and its ethical implications. The spark for such discussion was due to Pope Francis taking the opportunity to call surrogacy “deplorable”. Several times I have thought about surrogacy and wondered what my thoughts were on the subject. Is it really so wrong for bereft parents to finally have the opportunity for a child?Mental Health Minute: The Tongue of Angels (Tuesday 17 September, 2024)
How often do we feel it necessary to raise our voice? How often are we critical or demeaning? What are we trying to accomplish? What could we do differently that can be just as effective?Why Was Zemnarihah Executed by Hanging? (Tuesday 17 September, 2024)
A few scholars, including John W. Welch and Daniel L. Belnap, have argued that the hanging of Zemnarihah in the Book of Mormon has roots in the Old Testament law and in Jewish tradition––particularly the idea of hanging as a shameful, cursed mode of punishment for violent criminals and political rebels.Picture This—Hawn’s Mill Massacre Site as You’ve Never Seen It (Monday 16 September, 2024)
Maurine and I are currently on our second major film shoot for what we are calling the JSD—the Joseph Smith Documentary series. We’re creating upwards of 70 mini-documentaries covering the amazing, remarkable life of the Prophet Joseph. One evening ago, we were racing against the sunset to try to scout our location shoot at Hawn’s Mill. We missed the sunset, but we got something better.The Divine Link Between the Constitution and the Restoration (Monday 16 September, 2024)
September 17, 1787 would have seemed just like an ordinary day to anyone who was alive then; for them it would have been another day of work, of learning or just living, except in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where a miracle had taken place. Thirty-nine men signed a document that would forever change the trajectory of mankind.Serve a Mission From Home By Teaching Online Institute (Sunday 15 September, 2024)
The Church has announced a new service missionary opportunity for members of the Church ages 26 and older—to serve as an online institute teacher.A Letter To My Fellow Perfectionists (Wednesday 11 September, 2024)
How can perfectionists find peace? By embracing grace, letting go of unrealistic standards, and trusting in Jesus Christ.VIDEO: Young Adults in NYC React to President Nelson’s Counsel About Labels and Identifiers (Monday 9 September, 2024)
During a Churchwide young adult devotional in May 2022, President Russell M. Nelson taught the significance of labels and identifiers, and he emphasized the importance of spiritual designations over any other.Picture This: The Prettiest Village in England (Monday 9 September, 2024)
Maurine and I love the deep green countryside and the honey-colored buildings of England, especially in the Cotswold region of Wiltshire. But one village, where we’ve stayed and also photographed, stands at about the top of the list. And big filmmakers are not unaware of this “tourist honeypot” of England—Castle Combe.Are Latter-day Saints Forced to Pay Tithing? (Sunday 8 September, 2024)
Several years ago, after I had posted a blog entry about Church finances, one disaffected former Latter-day Saint managed to turn the discussion to tithing. Latter-day Saints, he argued, aren’t really free to choose to tithe or not to tithe, because, without being full tithe-payers, they won’t be counted as members in good standing of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Which means that they won’t be able to enter the temple, be ordained apostles, etc. Here is my response.What Caused the Famine in the Seventy-Third Year of the Reign of the Judges? (Sunday 8 September, 2024)
A branch of modern science known as paleoclimatology uses methods like studying stalagmites, tree rings, coral, and ice cores to approximate and reconstruct climate conditions in ancient times. Here are the insights paleoclimatology give us about the this famine described in the Book of Mormon.Building the Builders (Wednesday 4 September, 2024)
Are we adequately preparing the next generation?The Divorce Rate is Falling, but That’s Not the Whole Story (Wednesday 4 September, 2024)
Divorces are on the decline. According to figures in the United States. This seems like good news until we consider other related data: marriages are also on the decline. In fact, according to Forbes Advisor, fewer Americans are married today than at any point in at least 50 years.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Glad Tidings of Great Joy”, Helaman 13-16 (Wednesday 4 September, 2024)
Think of it. Samuel the Lamanite literally climbs on top of a city wall and preaches repentance to the wayward Nephites, narrowly escapes death, then disappears without a trace, never to be seen again. This must have been a dramatic episode, to say the least. But what happens after? “And there was,” reads Helaman 16:12, “but little alteration in the affairs of the people.”Mental Health Minute: What Does the Future Hold? (Tuesday 3 September, 2024)
"I came to prison when I was 15 and now I’m 31. I have been in prison longer than I have been out. I don’t want to come back. The only job I ever had was dealing drugs. I never even had a driver’s license. What can I do? What’s it going to be like out there?” We all face such crossroads of uncertainty about the future.When Representation Fails: Latter-day Saints and The Cost of Invisibility (Tuesday 3 September, 2024)
How are Latter-day Saints misrepresented on TV? Prevailing stereotypes and lack of diversity persist in the media.Should I Feel Compassion for My Addicted Partner? (Monday 2 September, 2024)
We know that those who struggle with addiction suffer in their own way, but how much compassion should the betrayed partner feel for them? One of the members of our private Connection Plus community asked this very question and we wanted to share our response to them here on our podcast.Do Boundaries Help or Hinder Relationships? (Monday 2 September, 2024)
Today, many see “boundaries” as essential to a healthy relationship and even virtuous. An old cliché teaches that “high fences make good neighbors.” Fair enough. But do you want a neighbor or an intimate partner?“Six Days in August”- What We Hope Others Will Take Away. (Monday 2 September, 2024)
Here are a few of the things that, I hope, people will sense about Brigham Young as the forthcoming Six Days in August movie project begins to unfold, starting with the premiere of the dramatic film on 10 October 2024, during the week following General Conference.The Consecrated Vehicle (Thursday 29 August, 2024)
“Brother, I want you to consecrate your car,” the bishop said. “There is a new family in our ward and they don’t have a way to get to church. I need you to go pick them up.” When I heard this request, we were serving as mission leaders in the Dominican Republic and owning a car was a rare thing. Those who were fortunate enough to own a car frequently “consecrated” their car to drive others to church.Is Your Child’s School Prepared for Emergencies? (Wednesday 28 August, 2024)
Teachers, administrators, school support staff, and classroom volunteers, are the first responders during any emergency which occurs in our schools, but are they prepared?Mental Health Minute: Past Feeling (Wednesday 28 August, 2024)
How often do we hide our emotions? How often do we stuff them away so people won’t think we are weak? How often do we hide our true emotional vulnerability behind the defense mechanism of anger? How often do we use emotions to control what people think about us out of fear of rejection?The Refugee Surprise (Monday 26 August, 2024)
I was reluctant at first. Nancy and I were glad to have become involved with a local agency that assists refugees. But when the agency asked Nancy and me to take a Syrian refugee girl to her piano lessons, it sounded boring. It wasn’t boring. That girl in her hijab is one of the most radiant people on the planet.Blind Faith or Informed Trust? How Latter-day Saints Follow the Prophet (Monday 26 August, 2024)
Are Latter-day Saints blind followers? Members use intuition, reason, and moral evaluation to trust and follow prophets.Final Season Release: Nephi and Lehli’s Powerful Testimony (Monday 26 August, 2024)
The Church will release 11 new episodes in 2024, timed to coincide with Come, Follow Me lessons. Here is the schedule of when each will be released.Your Hardest Family Question: My husband has an addiction. What do I tell my kids? (Thursday 22 August, 2024)
I just discovered that my husband has a pornography addiction and I’m wondering about how I should handle this with my children. Should I tell them about what their father does? If so, what do I tell them and when?Come Follow Me Podcast Book of Mormon #35, Helaman 1-6, “The Rock of our Redeemer” (Thursday 22 August, 2024)
In Helaman chapters 1-6, the Lamanites become the righteous and the Nephites the wicked. How does this switch come about? Things happen fast in the Book of Mormon, a roller coaster of righteousness and wickedness. I used to think it was hard to imagine such reversals and drama in such a short period of time, until we all entered these tumultuous times in our own nation.Captain Moroni’s Famous Epistle—and the Revelation Behind It (Thursday 22 August, 2024)
Moroni reports receiving a revelation in which the Lord told him, “If those whom ye have appointed your governors do not repent of their sins and iniquities, ye shall go up to battle against them” (Alma 60:33). Apparently, it was largely because of this revelation that Moroni wrote his famous epistle of rebuke to Nephite leadership (Alma 60)—an epistle that quoted this message from the Lord.A Letter to Latter-day Saint Science Students (Wednesday 21 August, 2024)
Do science and faith conflict? Both can contribute to our understanding of the gospel and our faith in Jesus Christ.Frequently Asked Questions to Clarify the August 2024 ‘General Handbook’ Updates (Wednesday 21 August, 2024)
The “General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” provides guidance for general and local Church leaders worldwide. It continues to be a digital document with regular updates (at least twice a year) under the direction of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “The Rock of our Redeemer”, Helaman 1-6 (Wednesday 21 August, 2024)
What if our lives – without a single piece left spilling over – followed unique patterns on the sure foundation of Christ? What would need to happen to design and structure our efforts to be built on such a foundation?Growth Analogies to Remember When You’re Struggling (Tuesday 20 August, 2024)
This life is designed to teach us everything we need to become our best selves, and sometimes those lessons hurt. During some particularly severe trials, my children and I came up with three analogies that fit how we were feeling about our lives at that moment.Olympic Controversy Refocuses at Your Child’s School (Tuesday 20 August, 2024)
Now that the Olympics, the world’s most elite sporting event, has concluded, we are all left with some challenging and provocative questions to consider and resolve. How do we, for sports purposes, identify what constitutes a man or a woman? Learn what the Supreme Court has said.Mental Health Minute: Why Hold a Negative Thought? (Tuesday 20 August, 2024)
Have you ever had a negative thought? Where do they come from? What purpose do they serve? How do they help us? How do they hurt us? Why would we want to hold a negative thought?Commentary: When Entertainment Media Distorts Faith (Sunday 18 August, 2024)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, like other prominent global faith communities, often finds itself the focus of the attention of the entertainment industry. Some portrayals are fair and accurate, but others resort to stereotypes or gross misrepresentations that are in poor taste and have real-life consequences for people of faith.Is “Comprehensive” Sex Ed Really Telling the Whole Story? (Thursday 15 August, 2024)
How is modern sex education failing? It omits critical information, promoting misleading and harmful narratives.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I balance care for my mentally-Ill daughter and her kids at the same time? (Thursday 15 August, 2024)
I am dealing with a family situation that involves mental illness and would like some advice on where my stewardship begins and ends.What Can I Say to Others about the Temple? (Thursday 15 August, 2024)
The way we discuss the temple matters.How Faith can Overcome Fear (Wednesday 14 August, 2024)
Growing up in the church I was taught that faith and fear cannot coexist. “Fear and faith cannot coexist in our hearts at the same time,” said Elder Neil L. Andersen. As a result of this teaching, I was ashamed when I felt fear. I worried that if I felt fear it must mean that I didn’t have enough faith.Elder Soares’ Youthful Mission Prep: Consistency Matters (Wednesday 14 August, 2024)
Anyone who has tried to write a 10-page paper for a college class the night before it’s due has learned the hard truth that things are easier when you work on them over time. The youth of Elder Ulisses Soares provides some inspiring examples of how important quiet, but consistent preparation is for those hoping to serve a full-time mission.“Peace Through Prayer” Video: Teaching Kids Faith in Tough Times (Wednesday 14 August, 2024)
The Church has published the video “Peace Through Prayer” as part of the Growing Faith series on the Gospel for Kids YouTube channel. This video helps kids learn how to turn to prayer during difficult times.VIDEO: Building the Most Detailed Depiction of Herod’s Temple (Monday 12 August, 2024)
A groundbreaking new YouTube video, produced by Scripture Central on the Messages of Christ YouTube channel, provides an in-depth look at the historical and archaeological research that led to the creation of the most accurate 3D model of Herod's Temple ever made.Missionary Work: A Sacred Call to Serve, Not a Vacation (Monday 12 August, 2024)
When we received our mission call to serve at BYU-Hawaii in 2017, people often asked if that was going to be a mission or a vacation. When I talk to missionaries, I remind them that missionary work is work. It is also service. We sing the song Called to Serve. The letter from the prophet of the Lord says, “you are called to serve…”Book of Mormon Videos: Watch “Moroni Raises the Title of Liberty” (Monday 12 August, 2024)
The next video from the final season of Book of Mormon Videos has been published. Watch the video “Moroni Raises the Title of Liberty” here.Captain Moroni: Defending Faith and Freedom in Alma 43-52 (Thursday 8 August, 2024)
You may get to the so-called war chapters in the Book of Mormon and wonder why Mormon bothered to include so many of them. Yet, he was a prophet who’d seen our day and if ever there were chapters as fresh and relevant as today’s news headlines, here they are.What surprised a British journalist after spending time with Latter-day Saints (Thursday 8 August, 2024)
Eight discoveries in an in-depth profile about Latter-day Saints that challenged the stereotypes of a U.K. journalist and helped to ‘demystify’ the faith for her.Hundreds pack Texas town council meeting opposing Latter-day Saint church temple proposal with 173-foot spire (Thursday 8 August, 2024)
The town council of Fairview late Tuesday evening, after a four-hour meeting, decided unanimously to deny the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints' proposal to build the 45,000 square foot temple at 65 feet high with a 173-foot spire.Solzhenitsyn Warned Us: The Press Would Shape our Souls (Wednesday 7 August, 2024)
“He had been expelled from the Soviet Union in 1974 for writing books that were dangerously honest—and, worse yet, widely read—and in 1975, he moved with his family to the little Vermont town of Cavendish. “On June 8, 1978, the writer gave the commencement address at Harvard University, and he was as controversial as ever.‘What the heck just happened?’: What Kenneth Rooks had to say following his silver medal run (Wednesday 7 August, 2024)
The former BYU star shocked the world with his amazing second-place finish in the steeplechase Wednesday. Here’s how it all went down.Come Follow Me for Sunday School: “Stand Fast in the Faith of Christ”, Alma 43-52 (Wednesday 7 August, 2024)
Some wonder at the war chapters in The Book of Mormon. If the trials we deal with are so unlike those faced by the warriors of old, why do we have to read about battles, stratagems, fortifications and war? Wouldn’t it have been better to have thrown in a few more Alma 32’s or 2 Nephi 31’s?Controversy Erupts at Paris Olympics Over Women’s Sports Fairness (Tuesday 6 August, 2024)
Face shining with sweat and breathing heavily, she turns slowly in the arena and fans her arms up and down, to get the crowd’s attention. Then, pointing to herself, she raises her arms and forms two x’s in quick succession. Svetlana Staneva, Bulgaria’s female Olympic boxer, seemingly sends the message: “I am a woman, Lin Yu-Ting is not.”Mental Health Minute: Expectation Violation (Tuesday 6 August, 2024)
Many times when our expectations are not met, we can become depressed, discouraged, and frustrated, and our energy level may drop and our commitment may wane. Often mental health counselors try to help people completely overcome those bad feelings. But it might be better to adjust that goal.“Teens Read the Book”: Your Chance to Record the Bible (Tuesday 6 August, 2024)
A few years ago, a young man named McKay collected recordings of people reading the Book of Mormon. Now he’s collecting recordings of the Bible, and he’d love your help!Brigham Young Describes Paradise (Tuesday 30 July, 2024)
“My spirit is set free, I thirst no more, I want to sleep no more, I hunger no more, I tire no more."How to Be Ready for a Hurricane with Days or Hours to Prepare (Tuesday 30 July, 2024)
It’s time to complete your hurricane/typhoon preparations for a safe ride through the storm. Here are must-save checklists depending on how much time you have to prepare.Mental Health Minute: Good Enough? (Tuesday 30 July, 2024)
During the departure devotional for missionaries who have completed their training and are going to their assigned missions, several asked the same question: “I wonder if I will be good enough as a missionary?”First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ Announces New Medical School for Brigham Young University (Monday 29 July, 2024)
Medical School will draw students from U.S. and around the world and seek collaborative relationships with various institutions in Utah.Your Single Adult Dating Journey: Where to Begin? (Monday 29 July, 2024)
Whatever the reasons, it remains true that many mid-singles who would like to date and develop relationships are rarely if ever dating. Many have much to offer but feel unnoticed by people they might like to date.Book Chat with Julie: Looking for a Book that Features Freedom and Justice this July? (Monday 29 July, 2024)
As some countries celebrate the causes of freedom and justice all over the world this time of year, this month I have two book recommendations for you dealing with those very subjects.Come Follow Me Podcast #31, “Look to God and Live”, Alma 36-38 (Thursday 25 July, 2024)
We see many conversations in the Book of Mormon where fathers teach their sons and their impact changes not only their son’s life, but the generations that follow. The lessons are profound. The impact overwhelming. If there was ever scripture that calls out for fathers to step into their parenting role with power, the Book of Mormon is it.New Film Explores Church Succession After Joseph Smith: See the Trailer Here (Thursday 25 July, 2024)
To coincide with Pioneer Day, the Interpreter Foundation released the trailer for its forthcoming theatrical film Six Days in August.The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Welcomes Announcement of 2034 Winter Olympics (Thursday 25 July, 2024)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints extends its heartfelt congratulations to Salt Lake City on securing the bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics. We celebrate this news, recalling the feelings of unity, peace and friendship that characterized the event when it was last hosted in Utah in 2002.It is Not the Critic Who Counts (Tuesday 23 July, 2024)
The former president of the United States Theodore Roosevelt, slightly more than a year out of office, delivered perhaps his most famous speech at the Sorbonne in Paris on 23 April 1910. Although its formal title is “Citizenship in a Republic,” it is probably more widely known as “The Man in the Arena.”For Singles: Lessons in Personal Transformation and Faith from the Book of Enos (Tuesday 23 July, 2024)
Many of us may be familiar with the story from our seminary days, where we learned about Enos's intense prayer and subsequent forgiveness of sins. However, a closer reading reveals deeper layers of meaning that can enrich our understanding of this short yet powerful book.A Daisy a Day (Tuesday 23 July, 2024)
An old friend of mine, Stan, was in the assisted living. I was determined to visit him, but life got in the way. Finally, one Sunday, despite my busy schedule, I dropped everything and made my way there.Come, Follow Me Podcast #30: “Plant This Word in Your Hearts”, Alma 32-35 (Friday 19 July, 2024)
Alma has a hidden message in this week’s readings. You all are familiar with the concept he teaches of having a particle of faith and planting a seed and nurturing it that it may grow. But what is that seed to grow into? What is the metaphor he wants us to understand?Your Hardest Family Question: What are the rules about dating later in life? (Thursday 18 July, 2024)
My husband, to whom I am sealed, passed away a little over a year ago and I’m starting to date again for a “time” partner. I don’t know the rules anymore, especially since the last time I dated was over forty years ago. Is it okay to invite a man to do things with me or would that be perceived as pushy? If not, where do I draw the line?Utah Area YSA Conference Attendees Will Attempt to Break Two GUINNESS WORLD RECORD Titles (Thursday 18 July, 2024)
The 2024 Utah Area YSA Conference is excited to announce not one, but two official attempts to break GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS titles. Find out what they are and how you can participate here.Supporting a Spouse in Church Service (Thursday 18 July, 2024)
It has not always been easy being married to the bishop. I was not one of those wives who “never uttered a word of complaint” about all the time my spouse spent away from the family. I confess, I uttered a complaint or two. Eventually I realized his job was difficult enough without my tugging on him at home and I had to learn how to wholeheartedly support my spouse in his various church callings.“In My Time Of Dying” (Wednesday 17 July, 2024)
Very recently, Sebastian Junger published a new book entitled In My Time of Dying: How I Came Face to Face with the Idea of an Afterlife. It’s a personal memoir that is based upon a severe, life-threatening medical emergency that he experienced not terribly long ago. I read the book a week or two back, and I want to share a little bit from it.Don’t Miss Out on a Senior Mission (Wednesday 17 July, 2024)
There are lots of ways to serve the Lord. Some of those ways are teaching the gospel as the young missionaries do. But there are also lots of support roles that are needed to make the Church function. All of these are equally valuable. Here are some of the ways you can serve.The Cost of Ignorance: How Truth Leads to Freedom (Monday 1 July, 2024)
Does freedom mean doing what we want? Real freedom and autonomy comes from knowing and living higher moral truths.Mental Health Minute: Essential Attributes for Building Strong Relationships (Monday 1 July, 2024)
During group therapy in prison, as the group members approached the time of their release, we talked about future romantic relationships. With therapy and their own hard work and sincere efforts, they changed their lives. Now they could talk about creating and maintaining healthy, emotionally strong relationships.Work on Your Preparedness without Busting the Budget (Monday 1 July, 2024)
With the advent of many stores that sell items for a dollar or two or three, assembling your own Emergency Kit has never been easier or less expensive. I decided to make a trip to our local store where nothing sells for more than a $1.25 just to see for myself what I could find. I was pleasantly surprised.The Push to Make Abortion Up to the Moment of Birth the Law in Every State (Wednesday 26 June, 2024)
It’s distressing to see the lengths that some will go to in an effort to ensure women can end the lives of their preborn children. But, we all have a chance to stop this madness. Please get involved. For those that live in Arizona, there is something specific you can do.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “I Will Make An Instrument Of Thee” Alma 17-22 (Wednesday 26 June, 2024)
The scriptures tell of many middle moments, when afflictions were sore and deliverance seemed impossible: the wickedness of the entire earth before the Lord covenants with Noah and he is spared in an ark; the struggles of the Israelites before their deliverance through the Red Sea. Recently in Come, Follow Me, we read of one of Alma and Amulek’s middle moments, as they witness the inhumane suffering and death of many believers they loved.I love to see the (LEGO) temple… (Wednesday 26 June, 2024)
BYU's HBLL LEGO exhibit features builds with a uniquely gospel flare.The Lure of the Victim Mindset (Tuesday 25 June, 2024)
Life is full of situations that are out of our control. Once we have recovered from the initial shock of what has happened, how do we proceed? Do we continue to live as if we are powerless? Or do we make choices that we can control to heal and move forward?Maya Glyph “And it Came to Pass”: Book of Mormon Literary Style in Mesoamerica (Tuesday 25 June, 2024)
A strange thing about Joseph Smith’s translation of the Book of Mormon plates is the extensive use (over 1500 times) of the phrase “and it came to pass”. When Bruce Warren examined studies of time indicator glyphs by leading Maya hieroglyphic scholars Linda Schele and David Stuart, he was amazed by a striking Book of Mormon correspondence.Gospel Resources for Answering Difficult Questions (Tuesday 25 June, 2024)
The Church has compiled a trustworthy resource for individuals seeking answers to their own questions and for others who are striving to help them.Learn How to Do Family History Like a Pro for Free (Wednesday 19 June, 2024)
Learn FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, and FindMyPast like a pro.Inside Out 2: How Can the Sequel of a Favorite Movie Fall so Flat? (Wednesday 12 June, 2024)
I won’t take my kids to see this one. To say this film is a massive disappointment is an understatement.Ayaan Hirsi Ali: We Have Been Subverted (Tuesday 4 June, 2024)
Ayaan Hirsi Ali asks the question, “What is subversion?” and then answers it with a definition that captures what we are seeing right now in our world. Her words are haunting and get to the source of our sense that something has gone terribly wrong.Is a Grid Failure Coming? (Tuesday 4 June, 2024)
Congress is presently holding hearings discussing the fragile grid nationwide and what that means for all Americans. This is a real threat and should be taken seriously.Did Book of Mormon Peoples Wear Silk and Linen? (Tuesday 4 June, 2024)
While it is undisputed that ancient American peoples wore clothing of various kinds, some of the “cloth of every kind” in the Book of Mormon, particularly the mention of silk and linen, has raised questions.“Even Some Colors I’d Never Seen Before” (Monday 3 June, 2024)
One day, after plunging over a twenty-five foot waterfall, the nose of Dr. Mary Neal’s kayak became solidly wedged between two boulders at the base of the cataract. The pounding water kept her pinned face down onto the front deck of her kayak. She knew that, if she did not escape soon, she would drown. But she could not get out.How to Browse the Internet Safely (Monday 3 June, 2024)
Entire websites can be set up as scams meant to infect the security of your computer and access your personal information. Remember to double-check every site that you visit. Here are tips to help identify if a website is fake.VIDEO: A Deeper Look at Alma the Younger with Scot and Maurine Proctor (Sunday 2 June, 2024)
We’ve always thought that Alma the Younger was a rebellious teenager who is giving his parents fits and we see Alma the Elder earnestly hoping for him to come back around. A careful reading of the record reveals something more poignant.Elder Gong dedicates Taylorsville Utah Temple: ‘Come to the Lord in the house of the Lord’ (Sunday 2 June, 2024)
Apostle with family ties to the area invites Church members to enjoy the blessings of making sacred covenants.Why is the term “spouse” moving toward extinction? (Wednesday 29 May, 2024)
You might have noticed that the word “partner” has become the accepted lexicon for referring to one’s “significant other.” The term “spouse” is more often than not cast aside by married couples for the more culturally-acceptable term “partner.” It’s time to ask ourselves: “Am I complicit in this shift” and “how do I best understand what is happening?”Why Do So Many People in the Book of Mormon Fall to the Earth as if Dead? (Wednesday 29 May, 2024)
This particular detail of falling to the earth may seem unfamiliar or strange to modern readers of the Book of Mormon. However, as Mark Alan Wright observed, “ethnographic work among traditional societies has shown that holy men of various types—broadly referred to as shamans—commonly receive their calling through near-death experiences”.Come, Follow Me at Home: “They Were Steadfast and Immovable” Mosiah 29 – Alma 4 (Wednesday 29 May, 2024)
Have you ever been in an earthquake or similar rattling event? Discuss what it felt like. What are some ways your family is building its spiritual foundation? How are you building the kind of home that is a refuge from the storms that shake around you?“Among The Most Significant Holy Sites In The World” (Wednesday 22 May, 2024)
I’ve just finished reading Keith A. Erekson and Matthew J. Grow, “Assuming Stewardship: Notes on the Recent Transfer from Community of Christ,” BYU Studies 63/1 (2024): 4-32. This statement in particular caught my attention: "The House of the Lord in Kirtland must be counted among the most significant holy sites in the world." Such an assertion would surely seem absurdly grandiose to most in the world, but...is it true?Mental Health Minute: My Way or the Highway (Wednesday 22 May, 2024)
Have you ever heard someone issue an ultimatum? For example, “If we don’t do this my way, you can hit the highway!” or “If you don’t do this right now, you are going to bed without dinner!” or “If you don’t settle down, I’m taking you home right now!” How many winners are there in these conversations? How do the ultimatums strengthen relationships?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “They Were Called the People of God”, Mosiah 25-28 (Wednesday 22 May, 2024)
Most of us know what it means to feel low. Mostly we feel low about ourselves. Deep down we know what we are, and if we are humble, we know just how big the gap is between what we are and what we should be. Somehow, His infinite sacrifice releases us, enables us to re-emerge whole in both spirit and body, and to become as He is.How Prepared Are You to Communicate With No Phone or Internet? (Tuesday 21 May, 2024)
A disaster strikes, and your neighborhood is badly shaken. Some of your neighbors' homes are damaged. Electricity is out. Phones are out. Water is out. Sirens are approaching. The kids are at school, and your husband is at work. You reach for your cell phone and dial his number. The cell network is down, or overloaded. What will you do?Who Benefits From Destabilization of America? (Tuesday 21 May, 2024)
“Cui bono?” asked the ancients, whose wisdom we’d be foolish to toss aside. For by answering the question “Who benefits?” we may ascertain who is committing the crime that ails us.VIDEO: President Russell M. Nelson Gives Us His 8 “Ates” of a Successful Marriage (Monday 20 May, 2024)
In his latest book, President Russell M. Nelson shares invaluable marriage counsel, highlighting the powerful impact spouses have on each other. Learn the eight essential "ates" to build a joyful relationship.Harmony’s Miracle: The Restoration of Priesthood Authority (Thursday 16 May, 2024)
This captivating, ten-minute film not only chronicles the pivotal events that unfolded in the tranquil woods of Harmony, Pennsylvania, but also showcases a meticulous attention to detail. Each picture is authentic to the actual events described.Meeting Up with Premortal Friends (Wednesday 15 May, 2024)
Have you ever met someone and felt you knew them from “before”?VIDEO: Artist Heals her Grief with Moving Painting 12 Years in the Making (Wednesday 15 May, 2024)
"My name is Jenedy and I'm an artist, and a mother, and an athlete. Twelve years ago when my son passed away, there was this concept for a painting that came into my heart and I've waited 12 years to actually bring it to the canvas and I want to tell you the story behind it."Does Mother’s Day have to be a Minefield? (Sunday 12 May, 2024)
For many women, Mother’s Day is associated with deeply unpleasant feelings. Some mourn for the children they are unable to bear, weep for a child lost, feel guilty about not living up to the standards of perfection for motherhood, struggle with frustration at the ingratitude of family members who don’t value their selfless and lonely work. All this can leave some people feeling like Mother’s Day is a minefield. “What do I say?” “What do I not say?” “Who might I offend if I talk about motherhood?”Home Power: The Solution to Social Ills (Sunday 12 May, 2024)
With social and political upheaval happening around the globe, parents wonder how to raise up a new generation of people who can set things straight, get society back on track toward goodness, diplomacy, truth, and healthy problem solving. The solution to these modern problems lies in truths that were fully understood in the past and taught through home power.How Was Zeniff Overzealous? (Sunday 12 May, 2024)
Some years after the exodus from the land of Nephi to Zarahemla, a “large number” of Nephites wanted to return and “possess the land of their inheritance”. A Nephite named Zeniff was a member of this expedition and was assigned to “spy out their forces”. While among the Lamanites, Zeniff saw “that which was good among them” and “contended with [his] brethren” to “make a treaty with [the Lamanites]” and not destroy them.Mental Health Minute: Strawberry or Chocolate? (Thursday 9 May, 2024)
How do you communicate with those you love? How do you recognize when they feel the most loved? When do you feel the most loved? How often do we insist on using a love language that our partner doesn’t speak?Church’s Emotional Resilience Course Available in 30 Languages (Sunday 5 May, 2024)
The Church’s self-reliance manual, Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Resilience can help you build emotional resilience, develop healthy thinking patterns, manage stress and anxiety, understand sadness and depression, overcome anger, and build healthy relationships. The manual is now available in 30 languages.Come Follow Me Podcast #19, “In the Strength of the Lord”, Mosiah 7-10 (Thursday 2 May, 2024)
Elder Richard G. Scott said, “Help from the Lord always follows eternal law. The better you understand that law, the easier it is to receive His help.” The chapters that we are studying today demonstrate just that.Gods of Our Own Making: The Religion of Today (Thursday 2 May, 2024)
The increase in Individualism has fueled a shift toward self-worship, fundamentally changing our approach to religion.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I repair my relationship with my daughter? (Thursday 2 May, 2024)
How do I repair the relationship with my daughter? She is divorced, has lost her membership in the Church, lives out of town, and recently wanted to bring her married boyfriend here for the night for me to meet.Will you comply with new Title IX regulations? (Wednesday 1 May, 2024)
“We will not comply.” Those were the four words that Governor Rob DeSantis had to say about the new Title IX regulations. The Independent Women’s Forum and Alliance Defending Freedom are planning to sue the Biden administration for the regulations flagrant disregard for women’s rights. Other lawsuits are rolling out as you read this.Why Does King Benjamin Deny Being More than a Man? (Wednesday 1 May, 2024)
Benjamin did not want the people to “think that I of myself am more than a mortal man”. This statement, along with Benjamin’s insistence that “I, even I, whom ye call your king, am no better than ye yourselves are,” can be further understood in the ancient context of the Book of Mormon, specifically regarding ideas about royalty in the Old and New Worlds.The Growing Famine of Hope (Wednesday 1 May, 2024)
How does hope influence resilience? Studies show faith-based practices foster optimism and unity.Mental Health Minute: Equally Yoked Together (Tuesday 30 April, 2024)
How well are we “equally yoked together” with our missionary companion or our eternal companion? What have we done or what are we doing to become a team?President Jeffrey R. Holland Speaks about Going to the Edge of Eternity (Tuesday 30 April, 2024)
President Jeffrey R. Holland’s tender, powerful description of going to the edge of eternity makes this video inspiring. Watch it, pass it on, and then don’t forget to subscribe to our new Meridian YouTube channel.The Opposite of Charity (Wednesday 24 April, 2024)
Recently, in an effort to help us better understand charity, I wrote about the difference between love and charity. Another method I have found that will help us understand charity is considering its opposite.Why We Need the Iron Rod Now More Than Ever (Wednesday 24 April, 2024)
Nephi tells us that the iron rod is the word of God and then makes a remarkable promise: “whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction.”Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “A Mighty Change”, Mosiah 4-6 (Wednesday 24 April, 2024)
The occasion of King Benjamin’s final sermon was probably the Feast of the Tabernacles. The people of Zarahemla gathered and set up temporary dwellings. “When they came up to the temple, they pitched their tents round about, every man according to his family . . . with the door thereof toward the temple”.More On Race And Slavery Among The Early Utah Pioneers (Thursday 18 April, 2024)
I want to share a few more passages that I marked during my recent reading of Amy Tanner Thiriot, "Slavery in Zion: A Documentary and Genealogical History of Black Lives and Black Servitude in Utah Territory, 1847-1862". It seems that the Saints in Utah were, by and large, unsympathetic to slavery.Come Follow Me Podcast #17 “Filled with Love Towards God and All Men” Mosiah 1-3 (Thursday 18 April, 2024)
Elder Neal A. Maxwell called the chapters we are studying today the “Manual of Discipleship”. Since Mormon could include only the hundredth part of the records he had available to him, this may be the reason he zeroed right in on King Benjamin’s address and gave us so much of it. He knew we in the latter days would want to learn discipleship too.Your Hardest Family Question: How Can I Know My Husband is Telling me the Truth? (Thursday 18 April, 2024)
What would you say the difference is between being honest and being transparent? My friend’s husband has had a very bad pornography problem, cheated on her multiple times, lost his job, and created other problems for them. Even though he says he is being honest about situations and not lying, he doesn’t give details or offer information.Brigham Young And “Slavery In Zion” (Wednesday 17 April, 2024)
For one of the monthly reading groups to which we belong, we read Amy Tanner Thiriot, "Slavery in Zion: A Documentary and Genealogical History of Black Lives and Black Servitude in Utah Territory, 1847-1862." Candidly, I was dreading the book more than just a little bit.Mental Health Minute: Autism Awareness and Acceptance (Wednesday 17 April, 2024)
The month of April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Here is some basic information to help you know how to help those around you who are affected by it.VIDEO: Three Prophets Tell Us Why We are Building So Many Temples (Wednesday 17 April, 2024)
This is the first video on our new Meridian Mag Youtube channel. Please come and subscribe to our channel as there will be many more like it coming. We think this video is beautiful and powerful as it talks about the mightiest works the Lord is doing in our day.What’s really at stake in the abortion pill case before the Supreme Court (Tuesday 16 April, 2024)
Contrary to media hype and fundraising clickbait, the abortion pills case before the Supreme Court cannot result in the banning of chemical abortion. Here’s a look at what’s really at stake in the case of Food and Drug Administration v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, argued March 26 before the Supreme Court.Associated Press Embarrasses Itself in Conference Coverage (Sunday 14 April, 2024)
AP's coverage of the Latter-day Saints misses the mark, showcasing bias and a lack of religious literacy.“I’m Sorry” Shows A Lot (Sunday 14 April, 2024)
The words, “I’m sorry,” are said to be some of the sweetest that a person can ever hear; second only to hearing your own name and hearing “I love you.” However, not every apology is created equal. What do apologies show, and, how can we bravely harness the power to truly apologize?Emphasizing covenants, First Presidency updates temple recommend interview questions, shares statement on the wearing of the temple garment (Sunday 14 April, 2024)
Emphasizing the importance of the garment of the holy priesthood, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has alerted general and local Church leaders worldwide of changes to the temple recommend interview questions and the statement on the wearing of the temple garment.Mental Health Minute: Do It Anyway (Tuesday 9 April, 2024)
How often do we hesitate to do something good or something new or something outside our comfort zone? How often do we hesitate to move forward because we are not sure where it will lead or whether the Lord approves? How often do we hesitate because of what others might think?Choosing to Love: My Brother’s Unforgettable Legacy (Tuesday 9 April, 2024)
Lance was different. Anyone, upon first meeting him would notice, but being my older brother he was just Lance to me, not a person with Aspergers. He taught me how to make my bed, water the plants, make a peanut butter and honey sandwich, and even taught me how to drive. The evening of January 2, 2024 my dear, sweet older brother, Lance, passed away.How Did Zenos’s Parable of the Vineyard Reflect the Ancient Temple? (Tuesday 9 April, 2024)
Seeing the allegory in that temple context, it is possible to find within Jacob 5 “the story of the holy temple, including the work being done in latter‑day temples.”Initial Thoughts At The End Of Conference (Monday 8 April, 2024)
It seems clear to me from President Holland's recent remarks that he must have undergone a near-death experience of some kind. And President Eyring's mention of a pre-mortal memory reminds me of an experience like that of my own.Can We Make the Allegory of the Olive Tree More Personal? (Monday 8 April, 2024)
Jacob 5 stands in a class by itself and can be read on many levels. But it is long and repetitious, and the history of Israel is not a particularly interesting subject, especially presented as an allegory. But after speedreading, skimming, or skipping Jacob 5 all of my life, I recently listened to all six and one-half pages, all seventy-seven stretched-out verses. As I listened, I repented.VIDEO: A Tour of Temple Rooms and Purposes with an Apostle of the Lord (Monday 8 April, 2024)
With the recent announcement of so many new temples, this is the perfect time to watch and share this tour of a temple led by Elder D. Todd Christofferson and his wife, Kathy. This room-by-room explanation is a great invitation to a conversation with your friends and family about the Christ-centered purpose of the temple and the covenants we make there.VIDEO: Beloved Angel Moroni Statue Returns to Top the Salt Lake Temple (Wednesday 3 April, 2024)
The return of the statue after its four-year absence is a significant milestone toward the completion of the Salt Lake Temple renovation project.Mental Health Minute: Myopic (Tuesday 2 April, 2024)
One frequent invitation in mental health counseling is to challenge and change our thoughts, our feelings, and our behavior. Often our anxiety, depression, stress, and relationships can improve when we make adjustments to our perspective and changes in our behavior in the situations and relationships that cause us distress.Why Is Jacob’s Distinctive Voice Significant? (Tuesday 2 April, 2024)
Recognizing the stylistic fingerprint of Jacob serves modern-day readers in many ways. John Hilton has observed that the consistency of Jacob’s voice is especially impressive because of the twenty-three chapters that stand between Jacob’s speech in 2 Nephi 6–10 and the beginning of the book of Jacob.“Don’t You Have a Good Feeling?” (Sunday 31 March, 2024)
Gordon B. Hinckley, who served as the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1995 to 2008, shared a story from his father that I’ve never forgotten.‘Joy comes from and because of’ the Savior, President Nelson says in new video (Sunday 31 March, 2024)
On Easter Sunday, President Russell M. Nelson shared his testimony that ‘Our Savior’s Atonement made eternal life a possibility and immortality a reality for all’.Book Chat with Julie: Medieval Warfare, Victorian Sleuths, and a Dash of Romance! (Sunday 31 March, 2024)
Spring is finally here and I’m excited for all the new books that are “springing” up! I have three recommendations for you this month.President Holland speaks of the Savior’s ‘solitary journey’ in new video (Thursday 28 March, 2024)
Days before Easter, President Jeffrey R. Holland shares his testimony of the Savior’s willingness to suffer on behalf of all God’s children.‘Mistakes do not disqualify us,’ Elder Uchtdorf says in new video (Wednesday 27 March, 2024)
Just before Easter, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf shares his testimony of the Savior’s power to forgive and redeem.Mental Health Minute: Sunday Will Come (Wednesday 27 March, 2024)
We mourn for our family and friends who have passed away. We miss them and think of them often. During each funeral, each memorial service, and during each day, week, month, and year ahead of us, we can feel great comfort because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.Come Listen to a Prophet’s Voice (Tuesday 26 March, 2024)
Why do we prepare? Because the prophets have warned us of things to come. Here are some of the specific things they have said.‘The Savior is beckoning,’ Elder Bednar says in new video (Tuesday 26 March, 2024)
Ahead of Easter Sunday, Elder David A. Bednar shares his testimony of the blessings of being yoked together with the Savior.Come Follow Me Book of Mormon Podcast #13: “He Shall Rise … with Healing in His Wings,” Easter (Monday 25 March, 2024)
What an exciting thing to talk about this week: the newness of life that comes and the celebration of Easter—the atoning sacrifice, death and resurrection of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.Relearning Touch After Betrayal (Monday 25 March, 2024)
Intimacy is a vital part of a relationship, and one that takes time and effort to create. After a betrayal, the steps to healing and regaining that intimacy can be confusing and difficult to navigate.Jesus provided the pathway to happiness, Elder Cook says in new video (Monday 25 March, 2024)
Reflecting on the final two days of the Savior’s life, Elder Quentin L. Cook shares his testimony that God’s children must love one another.Watch First Video From Final Season of “Book of Mormon Videos” (Sunday 24 March, 2024)
The first video from the final season of Book of Mormon Videos has been published. (See the video “Jacob Teaches the Allegory of the Olive Tree” below.) The Church will release 11 new episodes between now and the end of 2024, timed to coincide with Come, Follow Me lessons.Patterns of Conflict in Your Relationship (Part 2) (Monday 18 March, 2024)
We continue our conversation with Dr. Adam Fisher, discussing conflict patterns in relationships. In this episode we cover: What are some of the common patterns you see with couples when they present for therapy? How do you help couples understand their patterns without feeling blamed? How can couples escape unhealthy patterns?“Innovations And Initiatives At BYU And BYU-Idaho” (Monday 18 March, 2024)
The announced topic of the meeting was “Innovations and Initiatives at BYU and BYU-Idaho.” I was especially pleased to hear Elder Clark G. Gilbert say, and repeat, and emphasize as one of the points that he really wanted attendees to register was — in these precise words — “BYU is serious about its religious mission.”National Survey on Perceptions of Latter-day Saints (Monday 18 March, 2024)
The survey asked the general population of the United States about their attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Marriage, Motherhood, and the Destructive Intersectional Lens (Sunday 17 March, 2024)
This year at the Commission on the Status of Women [CSW], at the United Nations, the topic of discussion was finding solutions for global poverty. While some of the family and motherhood organizations came up with good solutions for teaching entrepreneurialism, networking, and developing life skills through training programs and micro-lending solutions, many global NGOs and diplomats suggested solutions that would dismantle the family and decrease marriage.The Narrow Gate and the Strait Path (Sunday 17 March, 2024)
2 Nephi 26-33 is about "knocking" at the gate of heaven and entering the light. In other words, it's about the strait (or straight?) path leading through the temple. Let's discuss what that means in this week's episode.How Does Nephi Connect the Name Joseph to Prophecies of the Latter Days? (Sunday 17 March, 2024)
Nephi’s wordplay on the name Joseph is one of many probable wordplays in the Book of Mormon that scholars have pointed out. While they cannot be proven conclusively, wordplays with Hebrew and Egyptian words in the Book of Mormon give evidence that the book’s ancient authors knew something of these languages, and they thus testify of the complexity, historicity, and divinity of the Book of Mormon.Confusing Charity and Love (Wednesday 13 March, 2024)
The Doctrine and Covenants seems to acknowledge that charity and love are different virtues. Section 4 verse 5 tells us that “faith, hope, charity and love” qualify a man for the work of the Lord. If charity were the same as love, it wouldn’t be necessary to include both in the list of qualifications for service.Offense And Defense (Wednesday 13 March, 2024)
I think that apologetics, as such, is inevitable. Stripped of specifically religious elements, it’s merely the defense of a position. Scholars defend positions all the time, as they should. So do all the rest of us.Guiding Principles for the Church of Jesus Christ’s Use of Artificial Intelligence (Wednesday 13 March, 2024)
In a meeting with employees worldwide, Elder Gong urges reliance on the Spirit, wisdom, and trusted sources while using AI.The Power of Revelation in Answers to Prayers (Tuesday 12 March, 2024)
I found myself sitting in the state courtroom in Annapolis, Maryland. The attorney sitting next to me was quickly trying to prepare me to testify to the General Assembly concerning third-party insurance companies. Just outside the courtroom doors, my sister was pacing the floor with my nursing baby. How did I get there? This story involved pneumonia, a high-risk pregnancy, and no health insurance.Do You Know How to Call 911? (Tuesday 12 March, 2024)
Since we have seen an increase in crime and in human trafficking it’s time to add another skill to be prepared. Now is the time to learn the skill of calling 911. Yes, there are important tips to know to get the right help quickly.Mental Health Minute: Red Hair, Brown Skin, and a Bird’s Nest (Tuesday 12 March, 2024)
In today’s world, crowds yell and other players engage in “trash talk” trying to make us take our eye off the ball. This doesn’t just happen in sports or missionary work; it also happens in many forms of electronic media. How easily are we letting outside influences distract us from what matters most?The Hidden Power of “Thank You” (Monday 11 March, 2024)
How does gratitude affect families? It fosters virtues, strengthens faith, and nurtures relationships.One Investigator’s Story (Monday 11 March, 2024)
Brigham Young loved his family. As the demands of his new calling [to the apostleship in 1836] allowed, he always tried his best to convert his cousins, his uncles and his aunts. One of the most careful of these was Willard Richards, his first cousin.How to Use Media in the Church Classroom With or Without an Internet Connection (Monday 11 March, 2024)
Using videos and pictures in the classroom can enhance any gospel lesson. It can bring a spiritual tone that leaves memorable and lasting impressions. The Church’s Media Library available online and in the Gospel Library app offers many resources for teaching, learning, and sharing gospel media.Before They’ll Be Interested In Us, We Must Be Interested In Them (Wednesday 28 February, 2024)
It’s such an obvious truth that I almost hesitate to state it once again. But how consistently do we apply it?Mental Health Minute: The Next Chapter (Wednesday 28 February, 2024)
Recently, I have been talking with missionaries from Africa who are about to complete their missions and return home. For many of them, a mission has been as much of a temporal blessing as a spiritual blessing. On their mission, they have a roof over their head, three meals a day, and access to medical care. Many are the first converts in their family.How Latter-day Saint Doctrine Confronts America’s Racial Divide (Wednesday 28 February, 2024)
Three years ago, Dallin H. Oaks gave a stirring denunciation of racism. What are the theological implications three years on?Why Is Ancient Near Eastern History and Geography Helpful for Understanding Isaiah? (Tuesday 27 February, 2024)
Nephi could explain Isaiah to his people, he said, because “I know concerning the regions round about; and I have made mention unto my children concerning the judgments of God” (2 Nephi 25:6). As John Hilton III observed, “it is clear from Nephi’s words that understanding both the ‘regions round about’ (geography) and ‘judgments of God’ (possibly a reference to contemporary history) are essential to understanding Isaiah.”The Infinite Atonement in 2 Nephi 9 (Sunday 25 February, 2024)
The central focus of the Book of Mormon and the temple is the “infinite atonement” of Jesus Christ. This teaching emerges beautifully in 2 Nephi 9, which we discuss in this week's episode of the "Encircled in the Arms of His Love" podcast.A Tale of Two Names: Journalists on X vs. The Church of Jesus Christ (Sunday 25 February, 2024)
Journalists embrace X's new identity but resist the Latter-day Saints', showing disparate media treatment.Worshipping on the Other Side of the World (Sunday 25 February, 2024)
We knew our children were living in a remote part of the North Island of New Zealand, but we couldn’t picture how remote until we visited them.How to Ruin Your Next Marriage (Monday 19 February, 2024)
Divorce survivors who wish to remarry should think carefully and deeply about these ideas and how they might be intentional in the years ahead.The Compelling Imagery of Hunger and Thirst (Sunday 18 February, 2024)
The Savior used hunger and thirst to illustrate the level of commitment required for righteousness. However, our enthusiasm for discipleship doesn’t always take on the urgency of food in a famine. Ironically, it is only by starving the natural man that we feed our spirit.What Is the “Skin of Blackness” in the Book of Mormon? (Sunday 18 February, 2024)
For many modern readers, these and similar passages in the Book of Mormon are understandably jarring in their seemingly “racist concepts of nonwhite racial inferiority as contrasted with white racial superiority.” Here is some important context to understand.What does it mean to be “encircled eternally in the arms of His love”? (Sunday 18 February, 2024)
In 2 Nephi 1, Lehi announces to his family that he is "encircled eternally in the arms of His love." In this episode, we explore the meaning of the Savior's tender embrace in light of temple promises.How to Overcome Fear (Sunday 11 February, 2024)
One theory of emotion states that “you are afraid because you run,” (Not that you run because you are afraid.) The fact is that when you take the part of courage, courage flows in to you.I Don’t Have a Testimony of the History of the Church (Sunday 11 February, 2024)
Let's get one thing clear. There is nothing in church history that leads...to the conclusion that the church is false. There is nothing that requires the conclusion that Joseph Smith was a fraud.How Are Ancient American Temples Similar to the Temple of Solomon? (Sunday 11 February, 2024)
When the Book of Mormon was first published, the idea of an Israelite temple outside of Jerusalem was a point of criticism leveled against the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith. With all that has been discovered since then, where does that criticism stand today?The Two Parts of Hope (Wednesday 7 February, 2024)
Hopeless is the most dangerous emotion I have ever encountered. As a therapist I could help a client progress as long they maintained their hope. Of all the tools I had in my toolbox, instilling hope was the most valuable.DNA & RNA Form, Function and Terminology as Described by Lehi in 2 Nephi 2:11 (Wednesday 7 February, 2024)
DNA and RNA are the foundation of earthly life. I am thrilled that Lehi’s description of the principles of opposition is so very descriptive of what we now know about DNA & RNA form and function.BYU Study visually captures hard truth: Walking home at night is not the same for women (Wednesday 7 February, 2024)
Heat maps show men look straight ahead; women scan periphery.Richard Bushman On Witnesses To The Book Of Mormon (Tuesday 6 February, 2024)
Here are some notes about certain of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon — both official and unofficial — that I’ve drawn from the fourth chapter of Richard Lyman Bushman’s book Joseph Smith’s Gold Plates: A Cultural History (New York: Oxford University Press, 2023).Why Does Lehi Tell His Sons to “Arise from the Dust”? (Tuesday 6 February, 2024)
Shortly before his death, Lehi offered his sons personalized blessings. As he addressed his eldest sons, he implored them three times to “arise from the dust,” meaning to trust fully in the Lord and stay true to covenants they had made with Him.Mental Health Minute: Gold Medal Parents (Tuesday 6 February, 2024)
There is an often-told story of two sons of an alcoholic father. One struggles through life as a drunk. The other becomes a successful businessman, family man, and respected community member. When asked, “Why are you the way you are?” Both responded, “My father was an alcoholic.”Find Out What the Liahona Really Is (Sunday 4 February, 2024)
In this week's podcast, we discuss 1 Nephi, which recounts the “great tribulation” of Lehi’s family as they cross desert and ocean, echoing the ordeal of mortality that we all experience. But the Lord doesn’t leave them without his “tender mercies."What “Mighty Nation among the Gentiles” Would Scatter Lehi’s Seed? (Sunday 4 February, 2024)
Shortly before the death of his father, Lehi, the prophet Nephi prophesied to his brothers about the future scattering and gathering of their people.Book Chat With Julie: Books to Fall in Love With (Sunday 4 February, 2024)
It’s February---the month of love---and I have two books that you will definitely love!Mental Health Minute: Overcoming Procrastination (Wednesday 31 January, 2024)
How often have you and I been caught in the trap of procrastination? Was it Facebook? Video games? Texts or Instagram? How often have we been distracted and robbed of our time by procrastinating the accomplishment of higher priorities? Here are some tools to help.How’s it Going at Home? (Wednesday 31 January, 2024)
Harmony at home might not be what you think it is.Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults with Elder Ulisses and Sister Rosanna Soares on February 18, 2024 (Wednesday 31 January, 2024)
Here are some ideas for engaging with young adults in preparation for this event.Church announces new life preparation lessons for seminary students (Tuesday 30 January, 2024)
New thematic lessons will help prepare youth for complexities of modern world through the lens of the gospel of Jesus Christ.The ‘beautiful’ and ‘stretching’ life experiences that prepared Elder Kearon to be an Apostle (Wednesday 24 January, 2024)
Elder Patrick Kearon and his wife, Sister Jennifer Kearon, reflect on the pain of losing their son, her battle with cancer, and how those and other experiences strengthened their faith in Jesus Christ.Worried About the Wrong Things (Monday 22 January, 2024)
Jesus upended the hierarchy. He did not say blessed are those in positions of power, those who control big budgets, and command thousands of workers. No. He blessed the poor in spirit, those that mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, and the peacemakers. Jesus was different. And He asks that we be different.Why Porn is Bad for Marriage with Wendy Maltz (Part 2) (Monday 22 January, 2024)
We continue the conversation with Wendy Maltz as she describes the damages that pornography can cause on individuals and relationships. In this episode we cover: How is pornography harmful to marriages? What is the impact on each individual? What steps can an individual/couple take to heal from the impact of porn? How can a couple unlearn the harmful messages of porn and improve their sexual health?Want to be better at articulating your faith? Start by asking yourself these 5 questions (Monday 22 January, 2024)
Whether it’s a person we know intimately or someone we follow on social media, many of us know people who have chosen to leave the Church and walk away from their covenants. This experience might cause us to reflect on our own covenants and ask, “Why am I staying?” or maybe even, “Why should I stay?” Here is one approach to answering those questions.Your Hardest Family Question: How Do I Respond to Opinions From Others About My Divorce? (Thursday 18 January, 2024)
I’m recently divorced. And sometimes I’m completely content to tell myself: “it doesn’t matter what other people believe about our marriage, no one can know what it was like but me.” And then I can let it go. But sometimes all I want is for some understanding and compassion from my friends and family.How Many Fellow Christians Want the Original Church to Return? (Wednesday 17 January, 2024)
First of all, do they believe Christianity today is as Christ intended or did things go wrong along the way?Lessons from the Restoration: What John Taylor Can Teach Us About Minimalism (Wednesday 17 January, 2024)
There are some among us who seem frantic with the need to acquire more and more stuff. Perhaps this story from John Taylor’ life will help give some perspective to the relentless acquisition of property.New Leadership Assignments in the Presidency of the Seventy (Wednesday 17 January, 2024)
Elder Carl B. Cook is Senior President, and Elder Marcus B. Nash is appointed to the presidency.Are You Really Ready For the Most Common Disaster? (Tuesday 16 January, 2024)
If you or a loved one lives in the path of storms prepare for extremely cold weather now and help others prepare. Even cold temperatures can cause power outages. It’s just January, much more winter ahead. No matter the emergency, winter or summer, if you suspect power may fail do the following.Mental Health Minute: How Do You Use Your 168 Hours? (Tuesday 16 January, 2024)
know I have squandered time. I also know that we should serve with “all our heart, might, mind and strength” (D&C 4:2) and not “run faster than we have strength.” (D&C 10:4) How do we achieve a balance?Why Are Lehi’s and Nephi’s Visions and Histories Similar to the History of the Rechabites? (Tuesday 16 January, 2024)
Jeremiah 35 includes a brief mention of the Rechabites, who were described as a familial group of covenant-keeping Jews. Because of their loyalty to the Lord, Jeremiah promised them that “Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want [i.e. lack] a man to stand before [the Lord] for ever”. Because of this promise, many Jewish traditions presume that the Rechabites (like Lehi) fled Jerusalem before it was destroyed by Babylon, leaving for a better land where they could serve the Lord.From Crisis to Connection: Why Porn is Bad for Marriage with Wendy Maltz (Monday 15 January, 2024)
We welcome Wendy Maltz back on the podcast to dive into the evolution of pornography. She shares her research as she has watched the intensity and accessibility grow over the years, the harmful effects on the performers and viewers, and ultimately the impact that it has on marriages.Musicians Invited to Submit Covers for “Come, Follow Me” Song of the Week (Monday 15 January, 2024)
Each month, “Come, Follow Me” will feature original covers of hymns and children’s songs submitted by Latter-day Saint musicians. Members are invited to submit original covers until February 11 for February, March, and April.Our New Podcast: “Encircled in the Arms of His Love: The Book of Mormon and the Temple” (Sunday 14 January, 2024)
This year as the members of the Church study the Book of Mormon together, we want to invite you to look at the Book of Mormon through the lens of the temple. We hope that our podcast series this year will help you see the Book of Mormon in new and enriching ways.Did Jerusalem Have Walls Around It? (Wednesday 10 January, 2024)
During the initial stage of translation of the Book of Mormon in the winter of 1827–1828, Joseph Smith’s wife Emma would often write for him as he translated. Later in life, on multiple occasions, Emma would tell the story of the time Joseph was startled by the mention of walls surrounding Jerusalem at the time of Lehi.Mental Health Minute: Humility and Integrity (Wednesday 10 January, 2024)
Am I humble enough to change? Do I possess the humility to realize there is always room for improvement? Maybe it’s not just my spouse that needs to change. Maybe it’s not just our child. Maybe it’s not just my boss, my co-worker, my companion, or whoever and wherever a conflict may occur.2024 Youth Theme Music Video “Disciple of Christ” (Wednesday 10 January, 2024)
The Church has published a music video for the 2024 youth theme “I Am a Disciple of Jesus Christ” based on the theme from 3 Nephi 5:13. The video shows the power of being a disciple. It was written by Nik Day. The full lyrics are found below.A Little-known Account of the Book of Mormon Witnesses (Tuesday 9 January, 2024)
William E. McLellin was chosen as one of the Twelve Apostles in 1835, but was excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 1838. However, he never abandoned his faith in the Book of Mormon, and one of the pillars of his faith rested upon his early, searching interviews with the witnesses to that book.Empty Chairs at Your Family’s Table?: Parental Estrangement (Tuesday 9 January, 2024)
Family estrangement is on the rise, especially parental estrangement. In the U.S. alone, it is estimated that roughly 67 million people are estranged from a family member (27%), and around 25 million people have cut off contact with a parent or child (10%). The researcher stated, “…the actual prevalence of estrangement is likely higher, as some survey respondents may have not wished to admit the problem. Therefore, the 27 percent figure should be considered a low estimate of the scope of family rifts.”Why Did Lehi Live in Jerusalem? (Tuesday 9 January, 2024)
Since Jerusalem was the capital of the southern Kingdom of Judah, it might seem unusual that nearly all the residents of Jerusalem named in these opening accounts are from one of the lost northern tribes of Israel. In the 1830s, a critic of the Book of Mormon regarded this as a “foolish blunder” that exposed its authors as “ignorant fellows.” Here's what more recent archeological evidence has to say about it.How to Talk to Your Kids: Bridging the Information Gap (Monday 8 January, 2024)
Many parents of children, teens and young adults are feeling that there is an information gap affecting parent/child bonds and communication. They wonder if they will ever feel the closeness that they hope for with their child again. Of course there are many factors to consider when addressing a communication breakdown in a family.The Best Free, Online Tools for Maximizing Your Book of Mormon Scripture Study (Sunday 7 January, 2024)
With the new year of “Come, Follow Me” on the horizon, it can feel tempting to want to stock up on a ton of great books on The Book of Mormon. But those price tags quickly add up, and the reality is that you don’t need to buy extra materials to have an enriching, deep dive into the scriptures. There are a number of free, online tools that can greatly enhance your scripture study experience.Book Chat with Julie: A New Year with New Books! (Sunday 7 January, 2024)
It’s a new year and I have some new books to share with you from two of my favorite authors!Come Follow Me Book of Mormon Podcast #1: “Another Testament of Jesus Christ,” Introductory Pages (Thursday 28 December, 2023)
“My dear brothers and sisters, I promise that as you prayerfully study the Book of Mormon every day, you will make better decisions—every day. I promise that as you ponder what you study, the windows of heaven will open, and you will receive answers to your own questions and direction for your own life."Mental Health Minute: Fear Not, Be Not Afraid (Tuesday 19 December, 2023)
There may be times when we feel stressed, homesick, depressed, discouraged, self-critical, anxious or inadequate, exhausted or unmotivated, worried or lonely. Prophets and apostles have counseled us to “Fear not; only believe.”Christmas Beyond Christendom (Tuesday 19 December, 2023)
What can explain the appeal of Christmas to people well beyond the community of committed Christian believers?BYU professors can detect identity fraud by tracking computer keystrokes (Tuesday 19 December, 2023)
New technology is invisible to a user and identifies fraud accurately 95% of the time in trials.Come Follow Me Podcast #48: “Good Tidings of Great Joy” — Christmas (Thursday 14 December, 2023)
For a few minutes you can leave the hustle of the season behind, while we take you to Bethlehem, a place we’ve spent much time. Come on an armchair journey.Your Hardest Family Question: Should I put up with abuse in my marriage or just endure to the end? (Thursday 14 December, 2023)
I just heard from our Patriarch that "difficulties" in marriage should be offset (if not indeed eliminated) by the hope for a perfected spouse in heaven. While this may be the only thread I have left to hang on to, how does one reconcile that against being abused emotionally and financially for an average of 200 days a year for decades?How Were the Universities Lost? (Thursday 14 December, 2023)
Not a day goes by when a university professor or student group has not spouted antisemitic hatred. Often, they threaten and attack Jewish students, or engage in mass demonstrations calling for the extinction of Israel. Why and how did purportedly enlightened universities become incubators of such primordial hatred?Mental Health Minute: To Care is to Love (Tuesday 12 December, 2023)
50 years ago, when I was serving a mission in the France Switzerland mission, our mission president Sydney F. Sager taught us that people really don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. When I begin working as a therapist with men who were in prison, our clinical director emphasized the same thing.Mazel Tov מזל טוב and Miracles (Tuesday 12 December, 2023)
Recently, President Nelson has encouraged us to “Seek and expect miracles.” He did note that some “miracles took time and may not have been exactly what those individuals originally requested from the Lord.” Yet, sometimes we are privileged to witness miraculous moments, something even as wonderful as Jesus calming the seas.A New December Goal: Christlike, not Stressed (Tuesday 12 December, 2023)
It's possible to slow down and get more done.Eyre Monday Poem: Don’t Judge (The Lesson of the Moose and the Pelican) (Tuesday 12 December, 2023)
About 10 years ago, I came upon a couplet that intrigued me: “the purpose of prose is to help readers understand; the purpose of poetry is to help readers feel.” I decided at that moment that I wanted to be a poet. Today’s poem is selected from my only published book of poetry.Who Was the Angel in Heaven with the Everlasting Gospel that John Saw? (Tuesday 12 December, 2023)
When John began writing his revelation, he was instructed to “write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter” (Revelation 1:19). Because of this instruction, it is clear that many of his writings pertain to events that had not yet happened as he wrote. Naturally, then, his prophecies are especially important to Latter-day Saints and others living in turbulent times.President Holland rededicates St. George Utah Temple; ‘I consider this one of the sweetest and most rewarding assignments I have had’ (Sunday 10 December, 2023)
Born in St. George 83 years ago, President Holland grew up hearing the stories and cherishing the heritage of sturdy, faithful pioneer forbears who sacrificed for a temple.The Silent Revival: How Today’s Youth Anchor Their Faith (Thursday 7 December, 2023)
What anchors the spiritual dedication of today’s American youth? Comprehensive research unveils commitments to traditions, God, scriptures, and community leaders as the guiding lights in their spiritual journeys.Your Hardest Family Question: Is It Worth Trying to Rebuild Trust with In-Laws Who Have Betrayed You? (Thursday 7 December, 2023)
How should we deal with them? Straight up tell them they owe us many apologies and need to be honest with the rest of his family? Tell them they can shove it? Keep ignoring them, they'll eventually get the hint?The Rapid Fall of Nephite Society: Another Book of Mormon Weakness Begins to Make More Sense (Wednesday 6 December, 2023)
For many years, one of the strangest things in the Book of Mormon, an arguable weakness that was hard to justify, is the rapidity in which Nephite society could switch from being penitent and righteous to being wicked and prideful. Could a devout, faithful society really fall that quickly? Now, We have seen our society seem to turn on a dime.Opinion: The Church Did Not Cover Up Sexual Abuse in Idaho (Wednesday 6 December, 2023)
Many of us at Scripture Central, myself included have held voluntary ecclesiastical positions and dealt with cases of abuse. We hope to provide some context around the conversations being had with regards to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and answer such questions as: Why would the Bishop not testify regarding the confessions of an abuser, so the abuser to be brought to justice? Or why does the church offer cash settlements?VIDEO: How I Found Out God Loves Me (Wednesday 6 December, 2023)
When I was born I could hear just fine, but I started to lose my hearing around the age of four, by the age of six I lost my hearing completely. I struggled to feel love and peace throughout my childhood because kids would tease me and made me feel that I was less than them.When the Tap Runs Dry (Tuesday 5 December, 2023)
Water storage is absolutely essential to a good preparedness plan. In an emergency, it may be too late to go to the tap and expect clean water to flow. One gallon per person per day is the minimum you will need to continue living the way in which you are accustomed. Here are some suggestions on how to treat and store it.Mental Health Minute: Service is Joy (Tuesday 5 December, 2023)
For seven years, I worked in a medium security prison in Arizona. As the prisoners went through a counseling program to help them become accountable for their decisions, they were given the assignment to give 10 hours of service. The service was given without any thought of recognition, reward, or recompense.How Do John’s Seven Letters Reflect the Ancient Temple? (Tuesday 5 December, 2023)
At the start of John’s revelation, John is instructed: “Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter” (Revelation 1:19). The revelation then begins with seven brief letters to seven churches in the region around Ephesus that provide significant instructions from the Lord for these churches.Am I the Reason My Prayers Go Unanswered? (Wednesday 29 November, 2023)
Do we sometimes actually block the Lord’s efforts to help us?Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “Glory, and Power, Be unto … the Lamb for Ever”, Revelations 1-5 (Wednesday 29 November, 2023)
As we come to an end of the New Testament we find that we have come full circle from Genesis. The days that marked creation are now marked by angels, trumpets and destruction that is meant to prepare the earth for its sanctification and Celestial glory.Come Visit Our Favorite Olive Wood Seller from Jerusalem in Utah this Coming Week (Wednesday 29 November, 2023)
For those of you who have joined the Proctors on their tours to the Holy Land, you likely remember Jimmy from Jimmy's Bazaar, a beautiful olive wood shop in Jerusalem. Well, this month, Jimmy will be in town from Jerusalem offering a selection of olive wood pieces for sale right here in Utah. Here's where you can see him.What Did Early Christians Teach about Exaltation? (Tuesday 28 November, 2023)
The language of saints becoming gods or like God is found within the Bible. For example, when challenged by the Pharisees who sought to stone Jesus, they listed blasphemy as Jesus’s crime. Jesus, however, responded by citing Psalm 82:6: “The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God. Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?”Mental Health Minute: The Song of the Heart (Tuesday 28 November, 2023)
Whatever our current situation, whether we are feeling thankful, whether we are feeling sad, whether we are feeling discouraged, whether we feel like singing glory to the Lord! … hymns and other good music can help us feel the spirit and draw us closer to the Lord.VIDEO: Your Story is More Important Than You Think (Tuesday 28 November, 2023)
In a world that often celebrates the extraordinary, watch as five individuals who've led seemingly ordinary lives through their own eyes, are reminded of the indelible mark they’ve left on the hearts of their loved ones.Proctors on a Mission #3: We Arrive in Puerto Rico (Monday 27 November, 2023)
Unlike young missionaries who are often transferred as often as every six weeks, senior missionaries sometimes stay in their new home their full mission. That would be the case for us as we arrived in Puerto Rico, with too many bags to carry, too little sleep, and a lot of hope in our hearts.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The Marriage of the Lamb (Monday 27 November, 2023)
In Revelation 19, we read, "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready." In this episode, Dr. Breck England explores the meaning of the "marriage of the Lamb." What does it signify? Who is the "wife who hath made herself ready"?Why Did Jesus Preach to the Dead? (Monday 27 November, 2023)
On October 3, 1918, President Joseph F. Smith received a profound revelation as he was reading the New Testament. The scriptures that President Smith had prayerfully been reading at the time were 1 Peter 3:18–20 and 1 Peter 4:6, which declare that “the gospel [was] preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.”Come Follow Me Podcast #46: “God Is Love” 1–3 John; Jude (Sunday 26 November, 2023)
John is described as “the disciple whom Jesus loved”, and it may be no surprise that he gives us a deeper look into what it means to love and how it is done. Of all the things I want and hope for in this world, it is to learn how to be a person filled with love, but self creeps in at every turn. Let’s turn to John for help.Eyre Monday Poem: 20 Reasons to think (and talk) more about death (Sunday 26 November, 2023)
November has been a tough month with three devastating deaths. It has forced me to do what my positive psychologist son has told me is one of the most insightful, important, and impacting things one can do—-to think and talk more about death. I could write about the pain but I choose to write about the plan.Monday Eyre Poem: Thanksgiving (And the Gratitude Fork) (Sunday 19 November, 2023)
For fifty years our holiday greeting has been a Thanksgiving Card rather than a Christmas Card because gratitude can be continuously discovered and sets the stage for Christmas. And Thanks-giving is not the path to happiness; it is happiness in its most obtainable form. But as this poem suggests, we need to manage our gratitude lest it turn against us.Signal Fires of Grace: “God Stopped Me in My Tracks” (Sunday 19 November, 2023)
"Without going into great detail, I suffered with addiction for some fifty years, and finally, at the age of sixty-two, broken and hopeless, literally ran away from home."The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: What is the “New Jerusalem” in the book of Revelation? (Sunday 19 November, 2023)
In Revelation 21, the apostle John sees a giant glittering cube, "the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God." What's that all about, and how does it concern us?President Jeffrey R. Holland set apart as Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (Thursday 16 November, 2023)
Set apart Wednesday, Nov. 15, he succeeds President Ballard as Acting President following the latter’s Nov. 12 death.George Washington at the New Monument of the Americas Park (Tuesday 14 November, 2023)
A people who have forgotten the importance of our foundation have taken Washington’s painting out of the Christchurch in Alexandria where he attended meetings, but Neal and those who support him will put George Washington where he belongs—right at the center of our nation’s founding.Why Does God Give Liberally to Those Who Ask? (Tuesday 14 November, 2023)
Given James’s focus on prayer at the beginning of the letter, one can understand why this verse has had—and continues to have—such a large impact on Christians throughout the world. According to James, prayer is an especially effective tool to gain wisdom.Mental Health Minute: Breathing and Relaxation (Tuesday 14 November, 2023)
One of the main tools to improve mental health is to do focused breathing and relaxation. If someone struggles with anxiety, depression, stress, trouble falling asleep, anger issues, relationship problems, addictions, or other issues, one important way to feel better is simply to breathe. Below are some tips and suggestions for breathing and relaxation.What I Want to Teach Children About America (Sunday 5 November, 2023)
Now my former students are grown, with children of their own. I doubt they remember many of the facts we learned about the Constitution. However, their question— “What does this have to do with us?”— has remained with me. I would answer it differently today.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: And now for the LAST JUDGMENT (Sunday 5 November, 2023)
In Revelation 20:12, John "saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” What are these books? And what is written there?Israel-Hamas War Keeps Getting Sicker (Sunday 5 November, 2023)
There is something surreal, even sick about the current Israel-Hamas war. Throughout European and American cities and campuses, tens of thousands of Middle East immigrants and students, and radical leftists chant nonstop, “Free Palestine from the River to the Sea.” More recently, they are also yelling, “Israel, you can’t hide, we caught you in genocide.” Consider the hypocrisy of that dual messaging.How Jesus Can Cure Our Hatred (Wednesday 1 November, 2023)
There’s more than enough animosity and division going around today, with plenty of people proposing “the answer.” What if Jesus taught the true solution all along?Mental Health Minute: Who Makes the Rules? (Tuesday 31 October, 2023)
A family came into counseling with the stated goal of improving communication. The family consisted of the mother, the father, and a son and daughter who were both in their 20s and again living with their parents at home. During counseling I asked who made the rules? All three heads of the father, the son, and the daughter snapped to their left and looked at mom. It turns out that mom set up counseling because her idea of improving communication was for all of them to obey her rules.How Does the Epistle to the Hebrews Describe the Family of God? (Tuesday 31 October, 2023)
Throughout the Epistle to the Hebrews, Jesus is depicted as an atoning high priest in the heavenly temple, allowing all God’s children to “come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need”. An often-overlooked aspect of Jesus’s divine Atonement, however, involves Jesus’s role as our brother.Eyre Monday Poem: “Inclusive” (Sunday 29 October, 2023)
I've been thinking a lot recently about unity within diversity and about how destructive it is to think about salvation and exaltation in limiting, exclusive terms. This poem is an attempt to grasp how inclusive Christ is and how short and narrow-sighted it is to think of God or His Gospel in any other way.Improving Family Togetherness In A Disconnected World (Sunday 29 October, 2023)
Ironically, in an age when business communications and social networking are easier than ever due to technological advances and global platforms, families are struggling more than ever to feel connected as groups. When the problems facing families seem endless and intricate there is one principle that we must keep in mind.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The Battle of Gog and Magog–what’s that all about? (Sunday 29 October, 2023)
We are now in chapter 20 of Revelation. We’re at the end of the Millennium, and in verse 7 we read: “Satan shall be loosed out of his prison.” Why, after a thousand years of peace, would the Lord free the Devil to raise hell again? And what is the great final "battle of Gog and Magog"?How Prepared Are You Really?: A Quiz (Tuesday 24 October, 2023)
How prepared are you? Where can you begin if you are new to prepping? A good place to start is to ask yourself a few questions. Let’s start with these 35.Mental Health Minute: What Helps the Most in Adjusting to Missionary Life? (Tuesday 24 October, 2023)
Not long ago, I asked two assistants to the mission president what counsel they would give to help missionaries adjust to missionary life. Both said, “Patience.”What Is the Mystery of Faith? (Tuesday 24 October, 2023)
When Paul wrote his epistles to Timothy and Titus, he offered many instructions regarding the qualifications of those who were to be called to be local leaders and priesthood holders in the Church. Regarding the deacons, Paul instructed Timothy that in addition to being moral, they must hold “the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience”.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: What will people do in the Millennium? (Monday 23 October, 2023)
We’re now into Revelation chapter 20. Jesus returns to earth and says, “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.” So what will these priests and priestesses do for a thousand years?God’s Trophies (Monday 23 October, 2023)
If all of us made trophies for everything magnificent that God has granted us, where would He keep them all? As we thought about all the trophies God would receive from His grateful children, we had the idea of writing a story about those trophies and the way God would manage them.Three Choirs Perform Together for Special “Music and the Spoken Word” Broadcast (Monday 23 October, 2023)
Glee clubs from Morehouse College and Spelman College from Atlanta, Georgia join the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square.VIDEO: Church Leaders Talk About the Next Generation of Missionaries (Thursday 19 October, 2023)
In the video “Future Missionaries,” Elder Christofferson explains that this generation of missionaries will be more successful than any generation in leading others to Jesus Christ. Elder Quentin L. Cook adds that this is the generation of Latter-day Saint youth that will “lead this Church” and “lead the Lord’s work” for the next 50 years.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon (Wednesday 18 October, 2023)
Paul challenges us to “be an example of the believers” (1 Tim. 4:12). How do we do this? How can we become model followers of Jesus Christ, so that others will find in our example relevance and meaning for their own lives?Funeral Information for Kathleen Johnson Eyring (Wednesday 18 October, 2023)
A public viewing will be held on Friday, Oct. 20, with the funeral held on Saturday, Oct. 21. See the video tribute to her from the Church News here.The Pedophile Pride Movement (Wednesday 18 October, 2023)
It even has a flag…Mental Health Minute: A Missionary’s Willing Sacrifice (Tuesday 17 October, 2023)
For young missionaries today, called to serve 18 to 24 months, your sacrifices are greatly appreciated here and in heaven. Your sacrifices may include being far from family and friends; delaying education and careers; giving up personal comfort; learning a new culture, a new language, new customs and dealing with new people. This experience provides great opportunities! And it can bring new challenges.What Does the New Testament Teach about the Great Apostasy? (Tuesday 17 October, 2023)
The belief in the Great Apostasy is central to Latter-day Saint teachings—that is, that there was an actual falling away from the gospel as originally taught by Jesus Christ and His Apostles, therefore necessitating a restoration. While this may appear to be a bold claim, closer review of the New Testament shows that the Apostles knew of the forthcoming Apostasy and warned the Church extensively against the false teachers that would come in its wake.On the Ground: Israeli-Palestinian Relations From a Family’s Lens (Monday 16 October, 2023)
For eight years in Jerusalem, a family observes the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian tensions. Israel’s survival hinges on military might, while Palestinians face leaders’ corruption. The struggle muddies right and wrong for both.Come Follow Me Podcast #40: “Be Not Soon Shaken in Mind or be Troubled”, 1 and 2 Thessalonians (Thursday 12 October, 2023)
We have many sicknesses today in our tumultuous world, but Paul aptly labels one of the most pervasive and contagious. We’ll call it the “shaken in mind” syndrome. Being “shaken in mind” is as deadly as it sounds, like something that would make you really sick. It is where stillness and stability and a sure foundation have fled.Your Hardest Family Question: My husband says hurtful things and moves on, I can’t (Thursday 12 October, 2023)
We have been married for 43 years. We will never divorce, but sometimes he says very hurtful things to me. Then without much communication after the event, life just goes on, but the hurt is still here in my heart. What can I do to heal and communicate better with my husband?Why Does Paul Quote from an Early Christian Hymn? (Thursday 12 October, 2023)
Very memorable is Philippians 2:6-11, where Paul appears to be quoting or paraphrasing from what might have been a very early Christian hymn that succinctly summarized Jesus’s entire being and ministry, beginning with His premortal life and ending with his heavenly glorification.How Often Do the Articles of Faith Track Sayings of Paul? (Wednesday 11 October, 2023)
As people all over the world read the articles of faith today, it is inspiring to notice how much of their wording is founded upon statements taught by the apostle Paul in the New Testament.Reflections on Fall and Singles in the Church (Wednesday 11 October, 2023)
Autumn is a time of reflection. We think of the past with nostalgia. When I (Jeff) was a missionary at age 20, I was young, idealistic, and full of life. I naively believed I had the answers, enabling me to help other people with their problems, while I coasted along in my own trouble-free life. I believed life would be an endless Summer.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Be Not Soon Shaken in Mind, or Be Troubled”, 1 and 2 Thessalonians (Wednesday 11 October, 2023)
“Holiness,” said one student, a freshman, when I’d asked the class for a definition, “isn’t just what happens before something else. That preparation is key, but it’s not the end. The most important part of holiness is what happens afterward. It’s the reflection you do about what you’ve learned. It’s how you treasure it once you’ve received it."Stories Bind Hearts Across Generations (Monday 9 October, 2023)
Consider the power of a story. Rather than focusing on bare facts of family history, stories tell us what is important to people and how they made life-defining decisions. Let me share an example of a story about Les Thacker who was my wife’s grandfather.Schedule Announced for Revision of Hymnbook and Children’s Songbook (Monday 9 October, 2023)
The Church has announced the schedule for the revision of the Church’s hymnbook and Children’s Songbook that was begun five years ago.The Feather River California Temple will be a ‘beacon in this area,’ Elder Soares says at dedication (Monday 9 October, 2023)
The dedication of ‘temples testifies that God has a divine vision and plan for His sons and daughters from all generations,’ says Elder Soares.When Loving Yourself Meets Loving Your Neighbor (Friday 6 October, 2023)
How do individuals balance self-care with acts of sacrifice, especially when their actions are influenced by their faith? Interviews reveal four key factors.Your Hardest Family Question: How Do I Navigate Online Relationships with Integrity? (Thursday 5 October, 2023)
I’m currently talking with a gentleman two decades older. We’ve become close friends during the past months. I enjoy our conversations. Although he says he loves me and is hoping for marriage, I’ve told him several times that’s not a possibility. He has recently become jealous of other men taking an interest in me.What Is an Evangelist? (Thursday 5 October, 2023)
In organizing the New Testament church, multiple offices and callings were established by Jesus Christ and His Apostles. One of these callings was that of an evangelist. However, this calling is only mentioned explicitly three times throughout the New Testament and Paul never directly described what it entailed.Are You Getting Hit With Waves of Adversity? (Wednesday 4 October, 2023)
Sometimes it seems life mimics the tides, one problem after another crashing onto our shore.Enjoying, Not Just Enduring, a Change in Seasons (Wednesday 4 October, 2023)
Have you ever experienced a sudden change in your mood as seasons change? A dip in emotions as the weather gets colder and days grow shorter, or anticipation and lightness as spring days bring warmth and sunshine? Seasons don't just bring about shifts in weather; they also deeply influence our emotions and self-esteem. Practicing self-care can serve as a steadfast support through these seasonal changes.What if Paul Came to Your House? (Wednesday 4 October, 2023)
This week while reading Philippians and Colossians I found myself thinking about Paul and wondering what he would recommend if he spent a day in our home. What if he came to observe our family dynamics, the feeling in our home, our parenting, our struggles, our strengths? With the experiences that he had in his life and his perspective, what would he have to say to us?Mental Health Minute: Is General Conference Harmful? (Tuesday 3 October, 2023)
Conference is edifying, uplifting, and revelatory, but for those individuals who struggle with toxic perfectionism, General Conference can provide so much counsel to do better and to be better that we can become overwhelmed.Why Is Grace Important in a Covenantal Community? (Tuesday 3 October, 2023)
People may usually think of God’s grace as a personal gift. But as Paul and the other New Testament apostles wrote to the various churches that they had helped establish on their missionary journeys, they would often describe obtaining the grace of Jesus Christ as a goal, not only for individuals, but also for the entire covenantal community to obtain and reach together.General Conference Memes to Share–Even Your Social Media Feed Can “Think Celestial” (Monday 2 October, 2023)
We have found and illustrated some of the most memorable quotes from the October 2023 General Conference, creating material that is easy to share with friends and family. All you have to do is click the image and it will take you to the post on Facebook where it can be easily shared.General Conference by the Numbers: April 2023 Conference (Monday 2 October, 2023)
This brief edition of General Conference by the Numbers discusses two aspects of the April 2023 general conference: 1) The number of times that “Palm Sunday” was mentioned.2) An increasing trend in using the “doctrine of Christ” in general conference.
Book Chat with Julie: Fall Reads You Won’t Be Able to Put Down (Monday 2 October, 2023)
I’m so excited that fall is here! It’s the perfect weather to get cozy with a new book and your favorite soft blanket. This month, I have two recommendations for you of books you will not be able to put down once you start reading.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “For the Perfecting of the Saints”, Ephesians (Wednesday 27 September, 2023)
Even though this is a relatively short letter, Paul covers a number of topics which center around the phrase “in Christ.” Paul uses this phrase 85 times in his epistles, so it is apparent that this concept is important to him.How Are Faithfulness and Grace Connected to the Right Hand of Fellowship? (Wednesday 27 September, 2023)
The symbol Paul used of “the right hands of fellowship” would have been familiar to an ancient audience in the context of connecting grace and faith. This would be especially true for Paul’s Greco-Roman audience, who viewed faith (pistis in Greek and fides in Latin) in a high regard—even worshipping a goddess by that same name.Enjoy the October 2023 Edition of the World Report (Wednesday 27 September, 2023)
The October 2023 edition of the World Report, a semiannual compilation of news from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is now available on Church Newsroom and YouTube.When Drugs Kill Rather than Cure (Wednesday 27 September, 2023)
In August, pro-life groups around the U.S. applauded the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling which found that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must restore critical safeguards for the use of abortion drugs. Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), which represented the plaintiffs in the case, called the decision a “victory for women’s health.” But what are these abortion drugs and why are they so problematic?Mental Health Minute: Suicide Prevention (Tuesday 26 September, 2023)
September is Suicide Prevention Month. Of course, we all need to be aware all year round of those who may be struggling. Here is a list of resources that may help.Captain Benjamin Merrill, Patriot with a Story (Tuesday 26 September, 2023)
A few years ago, on a Sunday afternoon, my daughter called our family on the phone. She was so excited to tell us of a discovery she had just made. While working on her genealogy and tracing her ancestry back on her father’s mother’s side, she had come across a “Captain Benjamin Merrill”. The story that enfolded to our view at that time has left an impact upon our family.A Change of Heart in Relationships (Monday 25 September, 2023)
When we suffer distress in relationships—especially marriage—we instinctively search for the problems that cause our distress. Almost always we discover defects in the other person. And we begin to tell ourselves a story that isn't helping anyone. How can we stop this cycle?Try Faith 30-day Challenge: “Tactical Ministering” (Monday 25 September, 2023)
In this episode of Try Faith: 30-Day Challenge, meet Jared, a US Army veteran, living in beautiful Hawaii with his wife and young children. Jared shares his inspiring mission to make personal connections and find true happiness through service.What Did Early Christians Teach about the Three Degrees of Glory? (Thursday 21 September, 2023)
On February 16, 1832, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon had a wondrous vision while they were engaged in the inspired translation of the Bible in Hiram, Ohio. That vision, since canonized as Doctrine and Covenants 76, dramatically revealed that there were multiple levels of heaven, each with their own glory. This system of heaven was completely at odds with modern conceptions of heaven and hell; however, while it may have been new to nineteenth-century Christians, one might wonder if such a doctrine was present in the earliest teachings of the Christian church.Your Hardest Family Question: How Do I Navigate My Fears About Autism in My Future Children? (Thursday 21 September, 2023)
I'm engaged to be married to the man of my dreams. This next line will undoubtedly make me sound shallow and unkind. But his brother is severely autistic and I'm afraid that we'll end up having a child of our own with autism too.Choosing the “Mission Field” (Wednesday 20 September, 2023)
What are the pros and cons to living in the places with fewer members of the Church, or that old term the "mission field"?Do You See the Little Miracles? (Wednesday 20 September, 2023)
Recognizing God’s hand in our everyday lives.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Walk in the Spirit”, Galatians (Wednesday 20 September, 2023)
“How do I know when I’m feeling the Spirit of the Lord?” A common question. Paul’s letter to the Galatians gives a great answer. Let’s examine the fruits of the Spirit more closely and ponder what Paul meant by them.Tim Ballard, former CEO of Operation Underground Railroad, issues response to church statement (Tuesday 19 September, 2023)
Tim Ballard, founder and former CEO of Operation Underground Railroad, an anti-child sex trafficking organization, issued a statement Monday affirming his commitment to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Mental Health Minute: When a Missionary Returns Home Early (Tuesday 19 September, 2023)
In the prison where I worked, the men who were about to be released developed a high level of anxiety just before they went back into the community. Some of their concerns included “Where am I going to live?” “What will people think of me?” “How will my friends feel?” “What will it be like to be back with my family?" How is this similar to when a missionary returns home early for whatever reason?Thriving After Divorce (Tuesday 19 September, 2023)
There are many wonderful things we can do to heal from trauma and thrive after divorce. All sustainable healing that establishes lasting peace in our hearts is obtained intentionally and purposefully.What Happened to the Joseph Smith Question? (Monday 18 September, 2023)
If people could ask our Heavenly Father any question at all, how many would ask the same question Joseph Smith asked?Self-Love vs. Self-Esteem: Loving Yourself as a Child of God (Monday 18 September, 2023)
In a society where external influences and societal expectations hold sway, the ideas of “self-love” and “self-esteem” have been discussed ad nauseam. Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually carry unique meanings and consequences.Gospel Stream: The Church’s New TV & Mobile Streaming App Allows Safe Viewing of Church Videos & Broadcasts (Monday 18 September, 2023)
The Church’s new Gospel Stream mobile and TV streaming (OTT) app makes it simpler and safer to view videos and broadcasts. This ad-free, safe environment will make it easier to access resources to teach the gospel at home, in Sunday meetings, and in seminary or other non-Sunday activities.Two US Temples and One in Brazil Dedicated on the Same Day (Sunday 17 September, 2023)
Bentonville Arkansas, Moses Lake Washington, Brasília Brazil temples bring total to 182.Puzzling Symbols and Stories Part 2: Choosing the Lens of Spirituality (Thursday 14 September, 2023)
“Each of us has a personal lens through which we view the world. Our lens gives its special tint to all we see. It can suppress some features and emphasize others. It can also reveal things otherwise invisible”.Puzzling Symbols and Stories: “If we start right, it is easy…” (Wednesday 13 September, 2023)
The bridge that God uses to help us catch values, honor our agency, and engage us is to use symbols and tell stories.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “God Loveth a Cheerful Giver” 2 Corinthians 8-13 (Wednesday 13 September, 2023)
In the chapters for this week, Paul goes to some lengths to describe the simplicity of the Way of Christ. From outlining the standard of knowing the truth by two or three witnesses to discerning true messengers from those who only pretend to be, he warns his readers to beware anything that could pull them away from Christ’s simplicity.A first for the Church of Jesus Christ: 3 temples to be dedicated on same day — Sunday, Sept. 17 (Wednesday 13 September, 2023)
A look at the 3 dedications — in Brasília, Bentonville and Moses Lake — and revisiting past double-dedication days.From Crisis to Connection: Getting to the Source of the Problem (Tuesday 12 September, 2023)
It is human nature to bypass the root of our problems and instead focus on fixing or changing our behaviors. However, the behavior is usually a coping mechanism for something deeper. Today I am joined by Sam Tielemans to discuss the importance of addressing the core problem, and separating our identity from our behaviors.A Positive Outlook Helps in Dating and Relationships (Tuesday 12 September, 2023)
Knowing what we all fear about dating, what can we do show up better dating and make it more joyful?How Does Paul Use Chiasmus to Teach about Jesus’s Atonement? (Tuesday 12 September, 2023)
Throughout Paul’s ministry, he wrote many epistles to different churches clarifying doctrine, answering concerns, and offering support as needed. Most of his epistles in the New Testament follow fairly standard literary forms of Paul’s time, which has led one New Testament scholar to note that they “are generally among the clearest” of the New Testament writings to outline.Come, Follow Me Podcast #35 “Be Ye Reconciled to God”, 2 Corinthians 1-7 (Friday 8 September, 2023)
This mortal experience was never meant to be easy—it was meant to be a school—but a school full of joy and wonderful learning. Paul wrote to the Corinthians: We are troubled on every side (have you ever felt that way?), yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.” (See 2 Corinthians 4: 8-9) Paul sounds like he is talking to us in our day—not to the people living in Corinth in the 1st Century A.D. Or was he talking to both? Let’s explore this together.Your Hardest Family Question: Should We Seek Reconciliation Amidst Family Crisis? (Friday 8 September, 2023)
My stepson was convicted of molesting his 12-year-old stepdaughter. He offered a plea where he maintained his innocence while admitting that the state had enough evidence to convict him. He took the plea deal and is now in prison. Our problem since he has been in prison is that our daughter-in-law will not let us see our grandchildren. She was angry with us during the trial for paying for a lawyer to defend him instead of giving her the money and for not sitting with her in the courtroom. Now she is demanding we sit down with her and talk to her before we can see the children. We wonder if it's even worth the trouble trying to see the children, who are young and don't miss us. What should we do? Should we give in to her demands to meet? How do we deal with her going forward?September Worldwide Young Adult Devotional Rescheduled For November 19 (Friday 8 September, 2023)
The worldwide young adult devotional originally scheduled for September 10 has been moved to November 19, 2023.27 Countries Speak Boldly in Support of the Family (Wednesday 6 September, 2023)
Lest you think you are quite alone in your commitment to the importance of the family to individuals and to society, it is with pleasure we share the words of 27 countries from around the world. These 27 United Nations (UN) member states align themselves in common cause as the “Group of the Friends of the Family" (GoFF).Renovated St. George Utah Temple Ready for Tours (Wednesday 6 September, 2023)
Public open house begins for pioneer-era house of the LordWhy Are People Baptized for the Dead? (Tuesday 5 September, 2023)
On August 15, 1840, the Prophet Joseph Smith introduced one of the most significant doctrines of the Restoration: baptisms for the dead. This ordinance would be the theme of many of Joseph’s revelations, letters, and discourses. So why do we perform baptisms for the dead?Mental Health Minute: Lonely vs. Being Alone (Tuesday 5 September, 2023)
Often people say they are lonely. That is different from being alone. Alone means “having no one else present” or “being on one’s own.” Often when someone is feeling lonely, he/she has a deep need to have someone else help him/her feel whole.Location of Lethbridge Alberta Temple Announced (Tuesday 5 September, 2023)
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the location of the temple to be built in Lethbridge, Alberta, as well as an exterior rendering of the temple to be constructed in Austin, Texas.A Deeper Look Into the Power of Latter-Day Saint Temples (Monday 4 September, 2023)
Why do others see Latter-day Saints as so good? Delve into the power of the law of the gospel and how this covenant shapes the lives of Church members and helps them become more like Jesus Christ.Secularization Begins at Home (Monday 4 September, 2023)
Religiosity in America has been in steady decline for several decades. However, in recent years, the pace at which Americans are leaving church behind has dramatically accelerated, as documented in the new book, The Great Dechurching, by evangelical pastors Jim Davis and Michael Graham, and sociologist of religion Ryan Burge. The book is based on a unique set of surveys describing and categorizing the various groups that have left American churches in the last few decades. The causes of this wave of dechurching are much debated, but The Great Dechurching devotes the vast majority of its attention to the experiences of adults, or most individuals transitioning into adulthood.Book Chat with Julie: Books to Fall for This September (Monday 4 September, 2023)
I can hardly believe that summer vacation is over, kids are back in school, and fall is nearly upon us. I’m looking forward to cooler temperatures and the crunch of leaves under my feet, as well as all the books that are set to be released! This month I have two books I’d like to recommend.If God Held a Televised News Conference …. (Sunday 3 September, 2023)
In a recent national survey, we asked 1053 fellow Christians to imagine that God held a televised news conference. Would they watch? If so, would they expect to learn anything new?Through BYU–Pathway, BYU–Idaho and Ensign College to Offer Three-year Degrees (Sunday 3 September, 2023)
The new online bachelor’s degrees will be offered in the fields of business, technology, communication, health, family services and professional studies.Come Follow Me Podcast #34: “God is Not the Author of Confusion, but of Peace”, 1 Corinthians 14-16 (Thursday 31 August, 2023)
In 1 Corinthians, Paul is addressing early converts to the Church who brought with them baggage and false ideas from their previous beliefs. To make matters even more difficult, they were far away from any central administration of the Church and so old ideas, firmly entrenched in their minds could clash with the gospel. Among these new converts were polytheistic Gentiles who had once worshipped idols, Jews who held to the Mosaic law, and all of the ideas influenced by the philosophies of Greece. How did Paul handle this whirlwind of opinions? We’ll see today.Your Hardest Family Question: Can My Daughter and I Find Healing After Being Left Behind? (Thursday 31 August, 2023)
My husband of twenty years has left me and our daughter. He left us notes in the closet. Our marriage has struggled over the years with multiple infidelities on his part. I wanted my marriage, but the hurt and not trusting kept surfacing. I told my husband I wanted to feel safe, and then it would immediately cause an argument. He said he felt as if I will never trust him. He ended by telling me he's sorry he couldn't live up to my standards. My daughter and I have tried calling him and texting him, but he won’t respond. I’m not sure what to do.President Nelson Donates His Medical Journals to the University of Utah (Thursday 31 August, 2023)
The records detail 7,000 surgeries done over three decades.What Hurricanes Teach About Preparing for Eternal Life (Wednesday 30 August, 2023)
Four lessons I have learned from hurricane disasters that will help us prepare for eternal life.Why Are We Invited to Partake of the Sacrament with Our Right Hand? (Wednesday 30 August, 2023)
The sacrament is a sacred ordinance instituted by the Lord Jesus Christ. It is filled with symbolic meaning meant to draw our minds to the Lord’s atoning sacrifice and the covenants that we have voluntarily made to follow Him. So why are we invited to partake of the sacrament with our right hand?BYU researchers help lead biggest DNA and protein cancer study to date (Wednesday 30 August, 2023)
Two Brigham Young University researchers are principal contributors to the largest comprehensive study to date on how cancer spreads and affects proteins in the body. Their studies could potentially lead to new protein-based therapies.Mental Health Minute: Values and Goals (Tuesday 29 August, 2023)
What do you see in yourself 50 years from now? What do you want to be 50 years from now? What do you really want, most of all, 50 years from now? When someone has goals in their life that are in harmony with their values, there is less stress, less anxiety, fewer worries, and less depression.Are You Prepared to Respond? (Tuesday 29 August, 2023)
You may think because you do not live in a flood plain, near a river, in the probable path of a tsunami, hurricane, or tornado, or in earthquake country or a high fire zone that you are exempt from being prepared. Think again. Our goal: Emergency Preparedness and Response.Thai Young Single Adults Tour the Bangkok Thailand Temple (Tuesday 29 August, 2023)
Elder Gong and his wife, Susan, greet the group in the new house of the LordCancel or Counsel? (Monday 28 August, 2023)
"Cancelling" is not a recent development—it has been around forever. If we follow Jesus, we should “counsel” with each other instead of “cancel” each other.See Interior, Exterior Photos of the Bangkok Thailand Temple as Elder Gong Welcomes Media-Day Guests (Monday 28 August, 2023)
Apostle welcomes participants to opening events for what will be the Church’s 185th dedicated house of the Lord.Sending Public Officials Who Censor to Free Speech School (Monday 28 August, 2023)
It doesn’t matter whether the government denies a person the right to speak or to reach an intended audience, or penalizes that speaker with ideological training. All such censorship is unconstitutional.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The Beast from the Sea (Sunday 27 August, 2023)
In Revelation 13, the apostle John has a vision of a mighty beast rising from the sea "having." We're told that it rules over every "kindred, and tongue, and nation." What does this monster represent? And what does it mean for us?Elder Bednar Dedicates Joseph and Emma Smith’s Restored Home in Kirtland, Ohio (Sunday 27 August, 2023)
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints dedicated the restored home of Joseph and Emma Smith on the morning of Saturday, August 26, 2023. The home holds a significant place in Church history.Singers Needed for New Church Hymnbook (Sunday 27 August, 2023)
Latter-day Saint singers of all ages are needed to help record songs for the Church’s new hymnbook.Come Follow Me Podcast #33: “Ye Are the Body of Christ” 1 Corinthians 8–13 (Thursday 24 August, 2023)
This week’s readings include some of the most important teachings in all the scriptures. You’re familiar with them: Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I AM NOTHING. We’re excited to explore this most coveted gift from the heavens today.Your Hardest Family Question: Can You Find Happiness in a Marriage Without Romantic Love? (Thursday 24 August, 2023)
I married my husband because I felt he loved me. Yet, I never felt in love with him. To be honest I don’t even feel attracted to him. I do not like him. Do I have to learn how to live my life without knowing what romantic love is? Is there a way I can find happiness in a relationship like the one I have? What do you think?Updated CES Standards Help Students Grow Closer to Christ (Thursday 24 August, 2023)
Principle-based changes to Student Ecclesiastical Endorsements, the Honor Code, and Dress and Grooming Standards provide consistency across the Church Educational SystemFearfully and Wonderfully Made (Wednesday 23 August, 2023)
I would argue that we have far more reason to be awestruck by the macrocosmic world around us and the microcosmic world with and about us than any pre-modern person ever had.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Ye Are the Body of Christ”, 1 Corinthians 8-13 (Wednesday 23 August, 2023)
Without charity, we are “nothing,” says the Apostle Paul. We may speak with the tongues of angels, we may have the gift of prophecy, we may understand all mysteries and all knowledge, we may have all faith, we may give ourselves up to martyrdom, we may even give away everything we have to the poor; but without charity, none of this matters.Sunday School general presidency shares changes to 2024 ‘Come, Follow Me’ during BYU Education Week (Wednesday 23 August, 2023)
Starting next year, “Come, Follow Me” will feature one consolidated manual rather than four separate study guidesMen’s Lives Matter (Tuesday 22 August, 2023)
Over the last few weeks, you may have seen a host of articles and videos about how the suicide rate in the U.S. has taken a relatively large jump in the last year. There was, however, a glaring omission as the pundits, therapists, and politicians addressed the topic: Who, exactly, is committing suicide? The answer may surprise you.What Did Paul Really Teach about Marriage? (Tuesday 22 August, 2023)
To avoid misunderstanding or misconstruing Paul’s counsel regarding marriage in 1 Corinthians 7, these passages must be placed in their proper context. Both missionary service and marriage were held in great esteem by Paul and were needed in their own time, with nuanced recommendations given for different circumstances.Mental Health Minute: Worries and Concerns (Tuesday 22 August, 2023)
Often people use the terms “worries” and “concerns” as meaning the same thing. The simple solution for changing “worries” into “concerns” is to surrender our desire to control those things that are actually outside of our control.The Blessing of Blended Families (Monday 21 August, 2023)
It takes courage to blend two families and work to make them one. Each blended family is unique and has varying challenges. But every blended family begins with a big adjustment for everyone involved.Missionary handbook updates include clarifications, answers to common questions from missionaries and their leaders (Monday 21 August, 2023)
Updates range from using time wisely, communicating with friends and interacting with the opposite gender and children.VIDEO: A Mural and a Message You Need Today (Monday 21 August, 2023)
Watch author Seth Adam Smith paint a mountain mural as you hear the encouraging words of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland speaking of the need for persistence, even when we have significant mountains to climb.Come Follow Me Podcast #32: “Be Perfectly Joined Together” 1 Corinthians 1–7 (Thursday 17 August, 2023)
Corinth was the powerful, bustling, and wicked trade center of the Roman province of Achaia. When Paul wrote what we call 1 Corinthians, to the members there, it wasn’t his first letter to them. That one is lost to us in time, but this second letter, that we call first, was motivated in part, by the concerns of a woman named Chloe and her household, who had written him. We’ll tell you why.Your Hardest Family Question: How Can We Overcome Differences in Ambition in Marriage? (Thursday 17 August, 2023)
I grew up with a father who was a successful business owner, investor, and community man. He also was highly active with his family. On the other hand, my husband is always sitting around watching TV or sleeping. It bugs me. He will not see anyone. Can I survive this marriage with this husband?William Shakespeare on the Book of Mormon Witnesses (Thursday 17 August, 2023)
Some skeptics, responding (rather defensively, I think) to the accounts given by the witnesses to the Book of Mormon, attempt to dismiss them by citing the fallibility of eyewitnesses and the unreliability of human memory. But Shakespeare made an observation that may shed some light on why these accounts are different.Is Crying Actually Essential? (Wednesday 16 August, 2023)
Many of us try not to cry. Here’s the good tears can do.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Be Perfectly Joined Together”, 1 Corinthians 1-7 (Wednesday 16 August, 2023)
In 1 Corinthians 1:25, Paul wrote that “the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” How many times have we looked at the circumstances of our own lives and asked questions for which we had no answer? I know I have been driven to my knees time and again by lessons I did not want to learn, or at least not in the way God wanted me to learn them. But, as Isaiah said, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord."Open house reservations available for historic St. George Utah Temple (Wednesday 16 August, 2023)
The public open house runs Friday, Sept. 15, through Saturday, Nov. 11, excluding Sundays and Saturday, Sept. 30, for the October 2023 general conference; reservations are encouraged.How Did Paul Understand Faith? (Tuesday 15 August, 2023)
Faith is an essential element of righteous living often emphasized in Paul’s writings. True to form, Paul’s ancient discussions of faith have richer, deeper meanings than can be readily translated into English.Mental Health Minute: Making Wise Decisions (Tuesday 15 August, 2023)
In our lives, we make some major decisions like where to go to college, what to study, what career to pursue, who to marry, where to live. In counseling, there is a decision-making model called Wise Mind which is a combination of Emotion Mind and Reasoning Mind.Send Your Student to College Prepared (Tuesday 15 August, 2023)
How prepared will your student be to survive and thrive during a disaster?Binding Hearts: Connecting Our Descendants to Their Ancestors (Monday 14 August, 2023)
Would you like to feel the love and wisdom of your ancestors in your life and your family’s life? Would you like to feel the strength and stability of your heritage as a foundation for your family? You can make the great qualities and contributions of your forefathers a blessing and a strength to you, your children, and your grandchildren.But why isn’t everybody persuaded? (Wednesday 9 August, 2023)
“If your arguments are really so good, why isn’t everybody convinced?” Critics of the claims of the Restoration sometimes demand that I answer that question to their unlikely satisfaction — seemingly unaware of the fact that not everybody is persuaded by their arguments. But it’s a question worthy of consideration.One Prayer That God Never Answers (Wednesday 9 August, 2023)
I like to remind myself that the scriptures always say, “It came to pass.” Never, “it came to stay.” And, for everything we wish would stay the same, there are probably ten things we want to change. The most common claim of self-help books is that they will change your life. Still, there are times we hang on to the status quo.New Video for Children: Miguel’s Sabbath Lesson (Wednesday 9 August, 2023)
The Church has published a new video “Miguel’s Sabbath Lesson | The Covenant Path” on the Gospel for Kids YouTube channel. This video teaches children about the Sabbath Day.Come Follow Me Podcast #30: “The Power of God Unto Salvation” Romans 1-6 (Sunday 6 August, 2023)
The book of Romans has some scriptures that are so familiar to us like “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” (Romans 1:16), and at the same time, we may sometimes find it hard to understand what Paul is saying beyond those scriptures we know well. Even Peter described Paul’s writing as “things hard to be understood” (2 Peter 3:16) Let’s dive in and see if we can unwind some of the mystery.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The War in Heaven (Sunday 6 August, 2023)
Revelation 12:7 says "there was war in heaven.” As in heaven, so on earth. This conflict continues in our own hearts. In the temple, Satan offers unlimited money and power. The Father's messengers offer light and knowledge--an interesting choice, isn’t it? What do you think? Let us know . . .No More Strangers: Angels Came from This Side of the Veil (Sunday 6 August, 2023)
I did not anticipate that I would take our shiny, new Suburban and drive to Guatemala, but I had come to see that life was unpredictable. What’s more, I found a road map that showed us directly how to do it. Who knew there was a road that led from my front door to a completely new world?Glimpses of Brigham Young (Monday 31 July, 2023)
Earlier this year, in preparation for sitting down to interview Professor Alexander in connection with the Interpreter Foundation’s Six Days in August film project, I re-read Thomas G. Alexander, Brigham Young and the Expansion of the Mormon Faith. Here are some passages from his very good book that I marked during that re-reading.Men of God Are More Than “Just Ken” (Monday 31 July, 2023)
I’m one of the first to talk about how to amplify women’s voices not only in the Church but in our wider communities. When America Ferrara’s character Gloria gave her great monologue (if you know you know), I was teary-eyed. However, the more I work to understand and live the principle that “all are alike unto God,” I’ve noticed something troubling. Men of God, the good ones, the ones that are trying their hardest, are being poisoned by the way we internalized, talk about, and treat their worldly counterparts.The Newest House of the Lord in Washington State Is Opening Its Doors to the Public (Monday 31 July, 2023)
Public welcome to tour the temple August 4–19.Sound of Freedom: A Movie, A Mirror (Sunday 30 July, 2023)
What does the Sound of Freedom Controversy reveal? It showcases a profound cultural discord, fueled by the media and cognitive biases, overshadowing our shared objectives.Lessons from the Restoration: The Faith it Took to Settle Among These Mountains (Sunday 30 July, 2023)
Consider for a moment the resilience of those people who finally came through the canyons into the valleys of these mountains. Many of them had weathered the apostasy of Ohio and the mobs of Missouri and the assassins of Illinois and still they turned their faces west and made the desert blossom. We would do well to remember their durability when our own challenges fill us with fear.New YouTube Series From the Church Follows 7 People Putting Faith to the Test (Sunday 30 July, 2023)
Join us on a transformative journey as we follow the lives of seven individuals, each facing unique personal challenges that hinder their progress. Despite their differences, they share a common goal: dedicating 30 days to strengthen their relationship with God. In this gripping series, witness the power of faith as they courageously open up about their struggles and seeking solace, guidance, and redemption.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “A Minister and a Witness”, Acts 22-28 (Wednesday 26 July, 2023)
This week’s lesson is about ministering. Our family is learning about this in a roundabout way, but the experience drives home the importance of ministering without condition or judgement. We do it because we can. Paul was a great example of ministering to everyone and anyone who would listen to him. He continually helped others and then witnessed to them of God’s love by teaching them of Jesus Christ and His resurrection and atonement. His acts teach us what our acts should be.How Did Paul Interact with Greek Philosophies in Athens? (Wednesday 26 July, 2023)
After being driven out of Thessalonica and Berea by an angry mob, Paul was conducted down the coast to Athens by the faithful Saints for his own safety. While Paul waited for his companions, Silas and Timothy, to join him, “his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him”.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The Two Witnesses of Revelation–Who Are They? (Wednesday 26 July, 2023)
In Revelation chapter 11, two witnesses appear in Jerusalem, and "they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth." Who are these two witnesses? why 1,260 days? and what is their mission and message?Self-Regulation Skills for All Ages —Even Toddlers! (Monday 24 July, 2023)
Self-government is a principle of freedom that most people work their entire lives to achieve. But self-regulation won't happen without planning.From Crisis to Connection: Sexual Healing from Sexual Abuse (Monday 24 July, 2023)
The statistics of sexual abuse are staggering. If you haven’t been sexually abused, you probably know someone who has been. Internationally recognized sex therapist, Wendy Maltz, joins us today to discuss the importance of sexual healing after sexual abuse.Generational Shifting Pioneers (Monday 24 July, 2023)
Codependency (excessive reliance on relationships) tends to be learned in childhood and passed on from one generation to the next. Yet we know that we can break free from codependent patterns, just as we can move beyond relationship failures and start learning from a successful new companionship.Patricia Terry Holland Passes Away (Thursday 20 July, 2023)
Sister Holland is the wife of Apostle Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.Church Publishes Single Come, Follow Me Manual For Adults, Youth, Children (Wednesday 19 July, 2023)
In 2024, Latter-day Saints of all ages will study the Book of Mormon from a single manual, replacing the separate manuals that have been used in Primary, Sunday School, Young Women classes, and Aaronic Priesthood quorum meetings.Why Was the Jerusalem Council Important? (Tuesday 18 July, 2023)
The Jerusalem Council served to establish several important Church policies and also to reinforce the doctrine of the Atonement and mission of Jesus Christ at a critical time. This council, it should be remembered, was directed by the Twelve Apostles and headed by Peter, the head of the Church.Insurance Tips: The Importance of Taking a Home Inventory (Tuesday 18 July, 2023)
More distress is on the way as snow melt continues and fire and hurricane seasons ramps up. Even FEMA now recommends a home inventory. Do you really know what you own? Are you appropriately insured?The Power of Place (Sunday 16 July, 2023)
The power of place. What does it mean to you? For me, it means drawing home. I will get a bit personal, talking about how my family has found their power of place over the years and as you read, think of how the places you call home give you power to live your best life.“There are So Many Fools for the Devil to Operate Upon” (Monday 10 July, 2023)
Joseph Smith once made a drily humorous—though profound—statement that captures a central reality about Satan’s influence. If anything, his words are more true today than they were in 1844. And, although his words apply in many directions, we must make sure they don’t apply to us. As a Latter-day Saint, I cannot allow myself to be among the devil’s fools.No More Strangers: When I Needed Help on the London Underground (Monday 10 July, 2023)
I was on the London Underground, on my way to start my very first term of graduate school at Oxford University. I was excited. I was alone. And I was on a shoestring budget. And I suddenly realized how badly I needed immediate help.Cultural Rejection of Self-Government (Sunday 9 July, 2023)
Self-government, one of the key principles of individual and societal freedom, is being culturally rejected by some academics. This malicious movement, if adopted by society, will undermine our cultures, our families, our economies, and our personal empowerment.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The 4th and 5th Trumpets of Revelation (Sunday 9 July, 2023)
When the fourth and fifth trumpets sound, new judgments fall on the earth. “A third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars." Where does this darkness come from? And is it already here?How to Achieve Inner Peace (Thursday 6 July, 2023)
If you want to feel calm and in tune with yourself, this complete guide will give you useful insights and easy-to-use techniques to help you get there.Come Follow Me Podcast #25: “Ye Shall Be Witnesses unto Me” Acts 1–5 (Wednesday 5 July, 2023)
For many people, one of the most enigmatic and mysterious parts of the life of Christ, comes after His resurrection when He spent forty days teaching the Apostles. What was the instruction that He gave them and is there some way to learn more? Do any sources give us a window into that teaching?What Might Jesus Have Taught His Apostles for Forty Days? (Tuesday 4 July, 2023)
At the beginning of Acts, Luke mentions how Jesus Christ “shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs” to His eleven remaining Apostles, “being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God”. Yet, the conclusion to Luke’s Gospel limits Jesus’s post-Resurrection appearances to just a single day.Temperatures Are Soaring: Stay Safe (Tuesday 4 July, 2023)
Temperatures are soaring throughout the world. Following are a few steps you can take to help make a summer power outage or heat wave a little more bearable (and protect yourself against even more serious consequences).“Can a Prophet or an Apostle Be Mistaken?” (Sunday 2 July, 2023)
Brigham Young once asked this question about prophets and apostles. Here was his answer—an answer that leads to very important issues regarding prophets and errors.No More Strangers: Yellow Raincoats and Loaves of Homemade Bread (Sunday 2 July, 2023)
Last week, we began a new series where readers can share experiences they’ve had where a fellow Latter-day Saint from a different area than their own reached out in love and kindness. Here are some of the stories you submitted.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: What Happens When the 6th Trumpet Sounds in Revelation? (Sunday 2 July, 2023)
When the 6th trumpet sounds in the book of Revelation, a massive war breaks out. But will it be a war of weapons or of words? Find out by listening to this week's episode.Teens at the Temple (Wednesday 28 June, 2023)
Is the Lord stretching time for these valiant youth? Will He do the same for us?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Ye Shall Be Witnesses unto Me” Acts 1-5 (Wednesday 28 June, 2023)
In Acts 1-5 Luke gives the account of the 40-day ministry of Christ after the resurrection, the outpouring of the Spirit upon the apostles at the feast of Pentecost, and the miraculous healing of a lame man. In this inspiring story, we learn how to testify and teach the gospel as the apostles did. We learn about apostolic succession and the gift of tongues. We learn about the importance of “looking unto” the Lord and His apostles for the miracles we need in life. And all of these lessons are focused on one place—the Temple.Church of Jesus Christ Provides Largest Volunteer Group at Special Olympic World Games 2023 (Wednesday 28 June, 2023)
Over 700 young adults volunteer through sponsored service conference at Special Olympics in Berlin.Mental Health Minute: Inspiration or Desperation? (Tuesday 27 June, 2023)
How often have we been extended a call from our bishopric or stake presidency and felt this was a call from desperation, not inspiration?Why Did Christ Appear to Two Disciples on the Road to Emmaus? (Tuesday 27 June, 2023)
One of the greatest challenges many early Christians experienced during this time was reconciling their own previous expectations of who the Messiah would be with what they had personally experienced. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, many initially believed that Jesus would come first and foremost as a conqueror who would claim the Davidic throne and redeem Israel from Roman rule.When Mid-Singles Face Rejection (Tuesday 27 June, 2023)
Being a socially active single adult carries the virtually constant possibility of being rejected by someone you have confessed an interest in—and rejection hurts. The fear of rejection is the primary consideration for many who simply refuse to “get back out there,” even though many do not acknowledge it. How we choose to handle rejection is deeply important and worth diving into since ALL socially active singles deal with it.Decreasing Chaos in Recovery (Monday 26 June, 2023)
With an increase of activities, over-scheduling, and an overall feeling of “busy-ness”, our lives already seem full to the brim. When a betrayal or other traumatic event occurs, how do we fit in the time and effort to prioritize that recovery while moving on with the demands of every-day life?“He brought heaven and earth together” (Monday 26 June, 2023)
Here are some quotations expressing Brigham’s attitude toward the founding prophet of the dispensation.The Saddest Words in Scripture (Monday 26 June, 2023)
Isn’t it ironic that in the very moment that the disciples are losing hope, Jesus is right there with them? Is the same thing ever true in our lives? The moment we’re giving up, when we feel like, “I had hoped, but I was wrong,” – that’s Jesus is right there with us.No More Strangers: Share Your Stories on Meridian (Sunday 25 June, 2023)
We refer to each other as, “brother” and “sister” and I’ve had so many experiences in my travels where it really felt like I had brothers and sisters across the world. I want to hear your stories of the times you felt that way too.Family Roles Are Often Misunderstood (Sunday 25 June, 2023)
Honoring self-evident family roles promotes increased family identity, a functional family culture, and secure children. In order to honor the family roles of children and parents, it’s vital that we understand what family roles are and how they help us succeed.The Bright and Morning Star Podcast: The First Trumpet (Sunday 25 June, 2023)
In this episode of my podcast on the book of Revelation, we hear the sound of the "first trumpet of judgment," followed by a plague of war and natural upheavals (8:7). What does it all mean?How Do I Know if I Should Go?: Helping young people prepare for a mission (Thursday 22 June, 2023)
Well-meaning parents and church leaders rightly encourage young people to choose to serve, knowing how a mission will bless their lives and the lives of others. However, adequately preparing these precious young people is huge responsibility. The youth don’t know how ready they must be. It is our responsibility as parents and church leaders to help them be adequately prepared.Happy Single Father’s Day (Wednesday 21 June, 2023)
If you are experiencing frequent visits from the all-too-common feeling of having been kicked in the stomach or chest, resolve to do things that reflect strength instead of weakness—and ask God to lend you the strength you need. The following ideas will bless your life.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “He is Risen” Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20–21 (Wednesday 21 June, 2023)
You’ve probably seen paintings, watched movies and even just plain read this story so many times. Mary comes to the tomb to find it empty. Then, after telling Peter and John about it, she sits there all alone for a while, crying for probably a million reasons, before (after being comforted by a couple of angels) someone comes to quietly stand behind her. Here is a detail about the story you may not know.Why Was Jesus Put On Trial and Crucified? (Tuesday 20 June, 2023)
Precisely what rationale led to these judicial proceedings isn’t fully clear from the scriptural record. As John W. Welch has noted, “one runs directly into several stubborn problems” when trying to ascertain motivations behind the actions of the chief priests and other key players in these activities."Mental Health Minute: The Seasons of Our Lives (Tuesday 20 June, 2023)
How do we feel about where we are now and where we are headed?Preparing Spiritually and Temporally This Summer (Tuesday 20 June, 2023)
Summer is a great time to help our family, children, and grandchildren, prepare for the challenges that will surely come. This summer, take time to prepare. Examine the following suggestions and check them off as they're completed.A Story a Day for a Year (Thursday 15 June, 2023)
Whatever form you choose to journal, give thought to those who may treasure your tales and the highlights of your life by recording and preserving them.Come, Follow Me for Families and Individuals: “It is Finished” Matthew 27; Mark 15: Luke 23; John 19 (Wednesday 14 June, 2023)
A few years ago, we watched in agony as Notre Dame was engulfed in flames. We feared the worst, from across the world, hearing commentary about its seemingly inevitable destruction. In the darkness of those unknown hours, it seemed likely that the priceless art and relics would burn up into the black Paris sky. That we would wake to a heap of ashes where, for centuries, beauty had stood. In Isaiah, Christ promises us that He will give us Beauty for Ashes.Come Follow Me Podcast #22 “Not as I Will, but as Thou Wilt”; Luke 22; John 18 (Wednesday 14 June, 2023)
Elder Holland said, “We celebrate the gift of victory over every fall we have ever experienced, every sorrow we have ever known, every discouragement we have ever had, every fear we have ever faced—to say nothing of our resurrection from death and forgiveness for our sins. That victory is available to us because of events that transpired…nearly two millennia ago in Jerusalem."How Does the Gospel of John Reflect the Day of Atonement? (Tuesday 13 June, 2023)
Many scholars have recognized within the Gospel of John deep connections to the temple and its rituals. The emphasis throughout John’s Gospel account depicts the way we can return to God’s presence. Thus, in several ways John draws upon imagery of the main temple feast of ancient Israel that celebrated and enabled this return to God’s presence: the Day of Atonement.Mental Health Minute: Making Connections (Tuesday 13 June, 2023)
We share the gospel message of being sons and daughters of Heavenly Parents. We invite others to enjoy the blessings of eternal marriage and forever families. Even with all those promises, sometimes we may feel lonely and isolated, or we may feel uncomfortable reaching out to make connections with others.Finding Emotional Freedom (Tuesday 13 June, 2023)
Many who have been divorced have experienced heartbreak, betrayal, and loss. The prophet Jacob counseled them to look to God with “firmness of mind” and “exceeding faith.”Why Formal Disclosure Matters (Part 2) (Monday 12 June, 2023)
Moving forward after a betrayal is critical, but when the past has not been fully addressed, it becomes difficult to focus on the future. If the betrayer does not disclose the important information to the betrayed partner, the past becomes bigger than the future. In this episode I continue the conversation on why formal disclosure matters.How Many Times Have Church Leaders Talked About Gethsemane in General Conference? (Monday 12 June, 2023)
We found that a total of 139 speakers have collectively used the word Gethsemane 396 times between 1859 and 2018. Just over one-third of all uses (134) came from the nine speakers who used the word ten or more times.Highlighting our Latter-day Saint Musicians—Jenny Oaks Baker (Sunday 11 June, 2023)
In the last few days (and of special interest to our wonderful East Coast readers), Jenny sent us a personal note letting us know of two Easter performances of The Redeemer, composed by Kurt Bestor, with Jenny on the violin, Dallyn Vail Bayles as narrator and tenor, Lisa Hopkins Seegmiller, soprano, and the Washington D.C. Temple Choir and Orchestra. It's worth getting your tickets this far in advance before it sells out.How To Parent Through Pride Month (Sunday 11 June, 2023)
Families need a plan of action during pride month. My husband and I outlined how to encourage our children in the truth this June.Some Thoughts on Science and Faith (Thursday 8 June, 2023)
I feel like sharing some quotations that I’ve previously gathered from believing scientists/mathematicians.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Matthew 26; Mark 14; Luke 22; John 18 “Not as I Will, but as Thou Wilt” (Wednesday 7 June, 2023)
The most important events of eternity often pass without much worldly attention. Such were the events in the Garden of Gethsemane. Peter, James, and John were the only witnesses to the transcendent suffering of the Savior, and even they slept through much of it. His decision to accept the bitter cup had ramifications for every person who had ever lived, and yet, except for these three, no one alive was aware of what was happening.Book Chat with Julie: Be Transported By Your Lazy Afternoon Reading (Wednesday 7 June, 2023)
Summer is here and it’s the perfect time to spend a lazy afternoon reading. This month’s selections will take you from the battlefields of the French Revolution to the kitchen battles between chefs who can make the fanciest French food.To “Spare the Rod” Or Not—About Spanking (Sunday 4 June, 2023)
In the book of John, in the Bible, when the woman was “taken in adultery” and cast at the feet of Jesus, why didn’t he stone her? It was the law. Why did he get down on her level and think and show love to her as he told her that she did wrongly? And how did this woman feel about that type of correction? Was her heart changed?“Yes, It’s True, but . . .”: What Spencer W. Kimball Once Said to Elaine Cannon (Sunday 4 June, 2023)
Elaine Cannon was general president of the Young Women from 1978–1984 and worked closely with President Spencer W. Kimball. Following President Kimball’s death, she shared an experience with him that teaches us a lot about prophets. It is a significant moment in Church history.“You Do You” is not a Quote from Jesus (Sunday 4 June, 2023)
We live in a world that says "You do you" and "Find your own truth." But Jesus Christ is the Truth. How do you teach this without being offensive?Why as a gay man I stand for traditional marriage (Wednesday 31 May, 2023)
My spiritual foundation is a vital reason I advocate for eternal families, but there are also other empirical considerations that serve to solidify my beliefs.Cherishing the Book of Mormon’s Teachings on the Fairness of God (Wednesday 31 May, 2023)
One of the most spiritually and intellectually satisfying elements of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ the is fairness of God. Contrary to centuries of tragically misguided theology about the damnation of those who never even had the chance to learn of Jesus Christ and accept Him, the revelations given through Joseph Smith and others reveal an vastly more merciful God.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Continue Ye in My Love”, John 14-17 (Wednesday 31 May, 2023)
John 14-17 is an account of the first sacrament meeting. What do we learn from the greatest sacrament meeting talk ever given?More Than Friends (Monday 22 May, 2023)
Being more than friends requires doing something to create that option. It is bold to confess your feelings because you risk that your friend may not feel the same way. You never truly know until you ask.No, the Lord Did Not Warn Us about Prophets’ “Serious Errors” (Sunday 21 May, 2023)
Some members believe that in D&C 21 the Lord Himself warns us that prophets will make serious and long-lasting errors. Why else, they ask, would He direct us to follow them “in all patience and faith”?Come Follow Me Podcast #20: “The Son of Man Shall Come”, Joseph Smith-Matthew 1, Matthew 25; Mark 12-13; Luke 21 (Friday 19 May, 2023)
We have two questions for you: 1) Which chapter in the New Testament did Joseph Smith make the most changes to? 2) Do we have any precedent in the Gospel or in history where a people were preparing for the coming of the Lord; they knew He was coming; they knew where He was coming; they even prepared a place for Him to come—and then He came?Your Hardest Family Question: How do I get my best friend to forgive me? (Friday 19 May, 2023)
My best friend is very upset with me because I couldn't comfort her during a time of need. This has happened multiple times. I am afraid that I might say something to her that might be out of line. I have apologized to her multiple times, but she says she can't trust me and doesn't want to talk to me.Highlighting our Latter-day Saint Musicians—Paul Cardall (Thursday 18 May, 2023)
Paul has a tremendous gift in music. His hands and his heart and his mind seem to meld with the piano. He is also a gifted composer, and has arrangements have moved untold thousands around the world.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “The Son of Man Shall Come”, Joseph Smith—Matthew 1; Matthew 25; Mark 12–13; Luke 21 (Wednesday 17 May, 2023)
Whatever the case, whenever the era, it seems the world is almost constantly in search of a Savior. But the hard truth is that, no matter who they choose or imagine, if it isn’t Jesus of Nazareth, it doesn’t ever really work out.How Does the Parable of the Willing and Unwilling Sons Teach about Christ? (Tuesday 16 May, 2023)
Jesus Christ is our perfect exemplar. From the very beginning, He recognized the Father’s will and sought to do all that was needed of Him. As we seek to follow Jesus’s example, then, we can learn how we are to continually reconcile our will with God’s.Iniquity or Inequity: What is our Fundamental Problem? (Monday 15 May, 2023)
Thoughtful people disagree on what exactly is the essential problem at the root of our societal woes—with some emphasizing the collective failure of certain groups and others highlighting the failings inside us all.Appreciating Our Single Moms (Monday 15 May, 2023)
Because I work and associate with many mid-singles, I am acutely aware that many single mothers feel like second class citizens because they lack a husband and a more traditional looking family. To all of these unsung heroes, I want to say from my heart, I see you. I celebrate the goodness of your life and your strength and resilience under often inhuman stresses and pressures.How the House of the Lord in Helena Was Built Differently (Monday 15 May, 2023)
Modular construction is quicker and preserves quality.Church Finances: A View from the Pews (Sunday 14 May, 2023)
Many people seem to be interested in details of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ private financial affairs. Common questions include: How much money does the Church have? Why do they try to hide it? What will they do with it? There seems to be an implied suspicion of impropriety.Ten Hidden Gems from the Interpreter Journal (Wednesday 3 May, 2023)
There are hundreds of gems just waiting for you in the pages of a journal you may never have heard of. It’s called, "Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship". This journal has been turning out fascinating scholarly articles for over ten years. Here is some not-to-be-missed highlights.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Lesson Helps for Luke 12-17; John 11 (Wednesday 3 May, 2023)
No matter where we stand now, our Father is pleading with us to repent—to come back to Him. He is calling, waiting, and hoping. Furthermore, our greatest work in this life is to help with this gathering of the Lord’s family, also known as “the house of Israel.” The magnitude of this work is truly breathtaking. It fulfills promises made thousands of years ago.Elder Pearson at interfaith fireside: Religions ‘add immeasurably to the quality of life’ (Wednesday 3 May, 2023)
Elder Kevin W. Pearson, Utah Area president, spoke alongside members of five other religions in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on Tuesday.Young Woman Speaks the Truth about Motherhood to Radical Feminists at the UN (Tuesday 2 May, 2023)
Technology, social media, the entertainment industry, began to shape a conviction in me to never have a marriage or family. My family’s insistence on these things only solidified my conviction. I wanted to stay single and become a lawyer or writer. I was angry and didn’t want to just “throw away my life” as I saw it. Over time, I saw things differently.Mental Health Minute: Who Draws the Line? (Tuesday 2 May, 2023)
For all of us, for you and for me, how many times have we been annoyed? Or felt offended? Or felt disrespected? Or crossed that line of disrespect? What would it be like if we erased that line? What would it be like if we took the time to build bridges of understanding, compassion, empathy, and love? How would that feel?How Does the Parable of the Prodigal Son Teach Us about Repentance? (Tuesday 2 May, 2023)
As John and Jeannie Welch have noted, this parable “is a story about getting lost—really lost. Unlike the sheep that cluelessly wanders off and gets physically lost, and unlike the coin that has nothing at all to do with being dropped out of sight in some dusty corner, the younger son had left his home intentionally, rebelliously, and insolently.What Is the Connection between Church Critics, Prominent Cultural Voices—and a #2 Pencil? (Monday 1 May, 2023)
The world has more than its share of Church critics. It also has more than its share of icons who crusade for abhorrent cultural practices. Such voices are often so prominent, so insistent, and so admired that they are hard to ignore. Keeping one thing in mind, however, can help. A lot.Helping Things Go Right in Relationships (Monday 1 May, 2023)
The beginning of forming healthy relationships is not looking for red flags. It is having a heart at peace. When our hearts are at peace, we can see the world more clearly. We can react to our partners in a healthier way. So, how do we get there?On Being “Perfect” (Part Two) (Monday 1 May, 2023)
In our effort to understand Matthew 5:48, we should certainly not ignore the verse’s context. That is an all-too-common error in the explication and deployment of quotations from the Bible; we must resist that temptation.How Does John Portray Jesus as the Way of the Temple? (Sunday 30 April, 2023)
Throughout the Gospel of John, various images and symbols point both ancient and modern Christians to the temple. Significantly, John S. Thompson has observed that the ordering of these temple themes in John’s Gospel appear to outline a progressive path similar to the architectural and ritual program of the Israelite temple. This view can deepen our appreciation for the idea that Jesus’s ministry signals the way for each of us to follow in order to return to the presence of the Father.To Bear Testimony: Insights on a Popular Latter-day Saint Phrase and Its Connections to Modern Scripture and Early Modern English (Sunday 30 April, 2023)
The concept of sharing one’s witness for Christ or the truthfulness of the scriptures, for example, is not unique to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but our preference for the term “bear testimony” as a statement of faith and even personal revelation does seem relatively peculiar to our religion. How did we come to use this phrase so heavily?How does America pray? New in-depth survey on prayer at PrayerWrap.org (Sunday 30 April, 2023)
The first Thursday in May is designated the National Day of Prayer in the United States. This year, a comprehensive nationwide survey on prayer is being commissioned by Skylight and conducted by City Square Associates.Come, Follow Me Podcast #17, “Rejoice with Me for I Have Found My Sheep Which Was Lost”, Luke 12-17, John 11 (Thursday 27 April, 2023)
Have you ever given a party, invited many people, and no one came? In this week’s chapters, we’ll explore a parable about a great feast and how, when invited, many people found shoddy excuses not to attend. As we hear this story, it seems so strange that anyone would find any reason to miss a marvelous feast put on by the Lord, but he is talking to us. Are we, knowingly or unknowingly, rejecting wonderful invitations that the Lord offers?Your Hardest Family Question: How do I get closure from my divorce? (Thursday 27 April, 2023)
My wife and I were married for 24 years then out of the blue she told me she wanted a divorce. That was almost 20 years ago. I have asked her time and time again, “why”, and all she can say is "you know why." I'm having a difficult time trying to understand and put all of this together. I have been to counseling and tried other ways to cope with this. I just want closure. What do you suggest? I see my ex-wife from time to time and especially at family gatherings, but I feel nauseous when I'm there and see her. She took me for everything during our divorce. I know I am supposed to forgive her and that's what the Savior would have me do but it has become very difficult. I just want a life back.Elder Rasband Meets Deputy President of South Africa, Paul Mashatile (Thursday 27 April, 2023)
The South African leader said he admired the Church’s approach to building communities and its emphasis on self-reliance.Why Parents Must Explain Why (Wednesday 26 April, 2023)
What to do when little children ask “Why?” about everything.You Want to Lead Best? Follow Your True North (Wednesday 26 April, 2023)
A wise man once advised living life by a compass, not a clock. In today’s option-packed world, that counsel is more pertinent than ever. There’s a better way to live life and do work, and Bill George provides the ideal guidance.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: Activities and Lesson Helps for John 7-10 (Wednesday 26 April, 2023)
When I left on my mission in 2002, I wanted to serve the Lord. I was determined that serving a mission would allow me to develop a personal relationship with Him. That was my goal. By the end of my mission, I wanted to know Him better. There’s an interesting reality about getting to know the Savior better; He manifests Himself most poignantly in adversity, in my experience.Huge Victory at the UN! (Tuesday 25 April, 2023)
Pro-Family Countries Hold their Ground against Western BulliesDust Storm Coming — Emergency Preparedness (Tuesday 25 April, 2023)
Dust storms may seem like an unlikely, even crazy topic to discuss outside of the Arabian desert. Dust storms are among nature's most violent and unpredictable phenomena, and they don’t just happen in the desert or on foreign continents. They happen in any dry region where loose dirt can easily be picked up. Be sure to be prepared.Mental Health Minute — Music Soothes the Soul (Tuesday 25 April, 2023)
How often would we like to have a “blessing upon our heads”? How often would we like to feel physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually calm and at peace? Music can be calming and soothing if we are anxious or cheer us up if we feel down.Stubborn with Joy (Monday 24 April, 2023)
Do we have any choice of whether we experience joy or sorrow in our fallen world? The good news is that there is a plan of redemption through Jesus Christ, and the fall does not permanently enslave or destroy us. The pain caused by sin, death, and our fallen natures will ultimately be swallowed up in the pure love of Christ. And we have choices about whether sorrow or joy will predominate in our thoughts and feelings.The Feast of Tabernacles (Monday 24 April, 2023)
The Feast of Tabernacles is perhaps a lesser-known holiday for some of us, but in the time of Jesus—and for many Jews today—it was one of the biggest annual festivals.Open House Underway for Renovated Columbus Ohio Temple (Monday 24 April, 2023)
An open house for the Columbus Ohio Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is underway following an extensive renovation.“That’s Okay, Gordon” What David B. Haight Said to Gordon B. Hinckley When They Didn’t See Eye to Eye (Sunday 23 April, 2023)
A conversation between the President of the Church and a member of the Twelve teaches us a lot about how the Brethren work together in guiding the kingdom. Try not to laugh.How visiting a synagogue helped me understand how the Bible and the Book of Mormon can become “one” in our hands (Sunday 23 April, 2023)
My mission president had encouraged me to connect with Jews, and visiting this synagogue seemed like a perfect opportunity to do just that. Talking to the rabbi about her religion was fascinating—helping me understand how the Bible and the Book of Mormon can become “one” in our hands.How I Know Podcast: Can you ever go so far away that the Lord can’t find you? (Sunday 23 April, 2023)
James Henry Moyle III got hooked on cocaine and lived on the street for 5- ½ years. Then, leaning against the wall of a convenience store he finally had one moment of sobriety and called out to the Lord, begging God to save him from spiritual death. He had already lost everything and he was pretty sure his case was helpless, but he was not lost to the Lord.Wheatley Institute report: sexual restraint during dating years linked to strong marriages (Sunday 23 April, 2023)
Sexually inexperienced individuals who have only had sex with their spouse are three times more likely to have a highly stable marriageCome Follow Me Podcast #16: “I Am the Good Shepherd” John 7-10 (Thursday 20 April, 2023)
Have you ever wondered why John the Beloved included the story of the woman taken in adultery in his record? Surely he had hundreds of stories he could have chosen to complete his testimony—why this particular story? We’re going to explore at least three things about this tender encounter.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I help my son cope with his dad’s rejection? (Thursday 20 April, 2023)
My teenage son suffers from anxiety and depression. He has autism and ADHD. He’s struggled with violent meltdowns since he was very young. He tells himself he is worthless and other negative self-talk, daily. It’s difficult for me to see him go through this and I feel helpless. What can I do?Elder Rasband Provides Update on Türkiye and Syria Earthquake Relief Efforts from Germany (Thursday 20 April, 2023)
To date, the Church of Jesus Christ has contributed more than US$13.5 million in aid to earthquake victims.Defining, Obtaining, Maintaining, Repairing Testimony (Wednesday 19 April, 2023)
Testimony comes through the quiet influence of the Holy Ghost. When Elder Dallin H. Oaks and his wife, Kristen, were living by assignment in the Philippines, Sister Oaks noticed that the Primary children did not understand what a testimony included. She received the idea of a “testimony glove” to teach children five fundamentals of a testimony.Mental Health Minute: Quick and Slow (Wednesday 19 April, 2023)
Quick and slow. How do those words affect our lives?Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: Matthew 18; Luke 10 (Wednesday 19 April, 2023)
The questions to ask God are not so much how we can teach our children the principles in the lesson for the week. Instead we are trying to ask God to help us know how to use the scripture passages for the week to make progress against the challenges in our lives and in our family. How can we use these principles to help our ten-year-old manage her rage? How can these stories help our teenage son be more aware of those around him? How can Christ’s words here help me to develop more patience?How Does the Parable of the Good Samaritan Teach Us about the Plan of Salvation? (Tuesday 18 April, 2023)
This detailed parable gives “a summary of the plan of salvation, from the wounded man’s beginning in a holy place to the promise of reward to the innkeeper upon the rescuer’s coming again.”False Cairns (Tuesday 18 April, 2023)
Cairns are designed to point in a specific direction. Cairns that point the wrong way can be very destructive. We can get seriously lost if we do not discern twisted truths. When we encounter what might be a twisted cairn we need to double check to make sure we are on the right trail. We can do this in several ways.News for Temples in Japan and California (Tuesday 18 April, 2023)
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the open house and dedication dates for the Okinawa Japan Temple. In addition, an upcoming closure and renovation of the San Diego California Temple has been announced.Let Your Heart Be Open to Love (Monday 17 April, 2023)
Dr. Greg Baer teaches about "emotional sunburns," which represent the pain we feel from not being loved enough. When emotional sunburns are bumped, the pain can be so intense that even small insults or criticisms can trigger great pain.Supporting Our Teens with Screens, Social Media, and Mental Health (Monday 17 April, 2023)
Our children live in a wonderfully terrifying world of tech that can both build and destroy. It can feel overwhelming and exhausting to stay on top of all the changes and trust our kids are safe.Elder Ronald A. Rasband Welcomes French Mayor to Paris France Temple, Part of April Ministry Trip (Monday 17 April, 2023)
Elder Rasband’s ministry will also take him to Germany, Armenia and South AfricaCome Follow Me Podcast #15: “What Shall I Do to Inherit Eternal Life?” Matthew 18; Luke 10 (Sunday 16 April, 2023)
Forgiveness is not always easy, especially when we have been deeply hurt or wronged or if we live in a situation where we are poorly treated continually, but the Lord’s command to forgive is one that can free and heal our hearts and cultivate boundless love for our neighbors.“I Had a Glorious Visit Last Night” (Sunday 16 April, 2023)
Hugh B. Brown’s through-the-veil experience teaches us much about the different ways the Lord works with, and guides, those He has chosen to represent Him.First Presidency Announces 2023 Area Leadership Assignments (Sunday 16 April, 2023)
Changes in area presidencies are effective August 1.“Here [in the Quorum of the Twelve] We Play Hardball” (Monday 10 April, 2023)
Richard G. Scott’s first meeting with the Twelve was a total surprise to him. What he saw, and what surprised him, teaches us a lot about modern prophets and how they work in leading the kingdom.The Law of Unintended Consequences (Monday 10 April, 2023)
As we explore relationships, there will always be unintended consequences -- both positive and negative. Those are, to some extent, inevitable. And they are worth keeping in mind.We Must Remember the Miracles We’ve Seen (Monday 10 April, 2023)
In Matthew 14, Jesus Christ fed five thousand men, plus women and children, with only five loaves and two fishes. In the very next chapter, four thousand men, plus women and children, were listening to Christ. The Savior said, “I have compassion on the multitude...I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way” (Matthew 15:32). You would think that the disciples would say, “Do another miracle,” but instead they respond, “Where will we get enough bread to feed so many people?”What Matters Most, Wins Out (Monday 10 April, 2023)
For years, I’ve sat in committee meetings and witnessed presentations laced with presumptions and conclusions based on someone else’s value system – their plan for our lives. One such presumption has always bothered me.Healing Together: Love For Elder Holland (Sunday 9 April, 2023)
Explore how the news of Elder Holland’s health struggles inspires compassion and unity as a loving community rally together to offer unwavering support.Highlighting Our Latter-day Saint Musicians—BYU Concert Choir (Sunday 9 April, 2023)
Having just come off of a beautiful Easter weekend, celebrating Jesus Christ and His resurrection from the dead, I looked for a piece that would be appropriate. This beautiful number, In Christ Alone, is a special arrangement by the choir’s talented director, Brent Wells. Take a few minutes and enjoy this moving piece.Moving Forward in the Aftermath of Her Worst Case Scenario (Wednesday 5 April, 2023)
Kim courageously tells her story about confronting the realities of her husband's addictive and abusive behaviors that ultimately resulted in her having to separate and file for divorce. During the separation and divorce proceedings, he committed suicide, leaving his four children without their father.One of the Overlooked Beauties of Easter (Wednesday 5 April, 2023)
Our hearts are stirred at Easter time as we realize the depths of the love of the Savior for each one of us. We rejoice in the joy of the resurrection and the immortality of all men. But, to me, the essence of the beauty of the Easter story is not only what happened on Calvary and in Gethsemane, but what happened in the “world of spirits, when Christ visited the dead and “liberated the captives." To me, this is one of the most exquisite beauties of the restored gospel.Hidden Things: Why Are We Told to “Consider the Lilies of the Field”? (Wednesday 5 April, 2023)
It's an oft-quoted admonition from the Savior's Sermon on the Mount, not to mention a beautiful song, but what does it really mean to "consider the lilies of the field" and how will this consideration change how you are living right now?Our “You Can Sue Me Later” Society (Tuesday 4 April, 2023)
“You can sue me later” perfectly encapsulates a disturbing trend in our society, wherein corporations and governments punish first, ask forgiveness later, and then only if required by a court of law.Why Are the Gospel Accounts of the Resurrection Credible? (Tuesday 4 April, 2023)
Central to all of Christianity—ancient and modern—are the testimonies that Jesus Christ suffered and died for our sins, being crucified and then resurrected on the third day. According to the Prophet Joseph Smith, “The fundamental principles of our religion is the testimony of the apostles and prophets concerning Jesus Christ, ‘that he died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended up into heaven;’ and all other things are only appendages to these, which pertain to our religion.”Why You Should Add “Good Friday” To Your Celebrations (Tuesday 4 April, 2023)
This week we will mostly be focused on Easter, and that’s important—without Christ’s resurrection we would have no hope! In addition, I hope we can carve out time to celebrate Good Friday.The Miracle that Unified Our Mission (Wednesday 29 March, 2023)
We had asked our missionaries to consider doing something that seemed to be a bit controversial. When an apostle visited the mission, we were nervous to see what he would say about it.Your Own Personal Recession Doesn’t Have to Defeat You (Wednesday 29 March, 2023)
Do not let the “experts” tell you not to be concerned. When your buying power decreases, and you are forced to change your lifestyle it’s time to ignore news reports and become the financial expert in your own home. What can you do now?Why Did Jesus Use Passover Imagery in His Bread of Life Sermon? (Wednesday 29 March, 2023)
According to the Gospel of John, Jesus offered a powerful sermon as “the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh” (John 6:4). This discourse, often called the Bread of Life Sermon (John 6:25–58), relates to the Passover in several profound ways.What the Sermon on the Mount Says about General Conference (Monday 27 March, 2023)
It is easy to overlook what the Sermon on the Mount says about General Conference. But it’s there. And—good news!—once you’ve seen it, you won’t be able to unsee it.Finding Peace Through Our Shared Spiritual Stories (Sunday 26 March, 2023)
The Fetzer Institute is turning to leaders in the world’s major historic religious, spiritual, and scientific traditions to discern what we’re fondly calling a “shared sacred story”—one that honors our religious, spiritual, and scientific diversity while connecting us across these differences in love.Put Some Zing Into Your Family History (Thursday 23 March, 2023)
Still think genealogy is dry and boring? Think again!Mental Health Minute: Fixing Flat Tires (Wednesday 22 March, 2023)
In psychotherapy, there are “four tires” for stability and a smooth ride; a person needs to be well physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. With conference coming, we will soon have the chance to pump up our tires and to fix flats so we can reach our heavenly destination safely.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Be Not Afraid”, Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5–6 (Wednesday 22 March, 2023)
Here are three important take-aways from this week's Come, Follow Me chapters; ways we can update these ancient scenarios and liken the people unto ourselves today.Virginia’s First House of the Lord Opens Its Doors (Monday 20 March, 2023)
Invited guests (March 21–24) and the public (March 25–April 15) will tour the Richmond Virginia Temple.“Born to a Woman of the Lowest Class” (Monday 20 March, 2023)
Endless tales are told about Joseph Smith, and some are distressed by them. But the same kinds of tales were told about the Savior Himself—and if elaborate and persuasive lies can be told about Him, who can’t they be told about?The Women Who Followed Jesus (Sunday 19 March, 2023)
This week, it's an absolute must to discuss the women who followed Jesus. Luke 8:1-3 contains only a few details but it is enough to start to paint a picture of these faithful women.VIDEO: A Favorite Primary Song in a New Light (Sunday 19 March, 2023)
In the latest video from the Church's YouTube channel, a traditional primary song is given grown-up poignancy as we see all the every day settings where people can't help but wonder, "are you really there?"The Book of Revelation Understood Through the Lens of the Temple: New Weekly Podcast by Dr. Breck England (Wednesday 15 March, 2023)
As we study the New Testament this year, we get to explore the book of Revelation. Revelation is, in the words of Elder Bruce R. McConkie, “the most misunderstood of all scriptural accounts,” but is also the most important book of the New Testament for “perfecting our knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom.”What Do the Parables of the Importuning Friend and Widow Teach Us about Prayer? (Tuesday 14 March, 2023)
Through these parables, Jesus offers a stark contrast between how God will answer our prayers and how flawed mortals—similar to people we may meet in our own lives—grant requests.If Flooding Comes to Your Neighborhood (Tuesday 14 March, 2023)
Forecasters are predicting major flooding this spring for many regions. It is already beginning and as the snows melt and with the ground is already saturated it will only get worse. Short of building a ship in our backyard, there are ways we can prepare for the worst.“It Is as Much My Right . . . .” (Tuesday 14 March, 2023)
Brigham Young once made a highly revealing statement that is widely overlooked—but that should be famous. It illustrates an important principle about prophets, and especially about Brigham Young’s own doctrinal teachings.Elder and Sister Gong Visit Hawaii and Ireland to Discover More of Their Ancestry (Sunday 5 March, 2023)
The couple is the capstone of Family Discovery Day at RootsTech 2023.President Ballard connects with ‘fellow missionaries’ at Provo MTC devotional (Wednesday 1 March, 2023)
‘Apostles are missionaries, too — full time, until we die,’ says Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who focused on the Restoration and ‘Preach My Gospel’.What Does the Parable of the Wheat and Tares Teach about the Apostasy? (Tuesday 28 February, 2023)
The world will be given ample time to repent and prepare for this event, and everyone will have a chance, in this life or the next, to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ and exercise faith in Him. Until that time, there will still be tares growing side by side with the wheat. Problems will continue to arise, and the influences and alluring deceptions of Satan will be seen all around us.Mental Health Minute: Who is Driving the Bus? (Tuesday 28 February, 2023)
Imagine a bus with several passengers going down the road. Many of the passengers on this bus are loud and noisy. The bus driver knows his route: he’s going straight for three blocks, turn right, then after three kilometers he will turn left and reach his destination. Some passengers are yelling at him to go straight or to turn left, not right, or to stop the bus completely.Time to Answer Your Questions (Tuesday 28 February, 2023)
Disasters are increasing and the wise of all religions and political persuasions are becoming more serious about preparing. Knowledge is power. Please remember no preparedness question is foolish or stupid or too small to ask. I guarantee if you have a question, someone else has the same concern.Mental Health Minute: What Lack I Yet? (Tuesday 21 February, 2023)
As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, we have covenanted to consecrate our time, talents, and resources to serve the Lord. Our sacrifices are recorded here and in heaven. What more can we do?Church Issues Statement on SEC Settlement (Tuesday 21 February, 2023)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its affiliated investment manager, Ensign Peak Advisors, Inc., have settled a matter with the Securities and Exchange Commission.How Can We Build Our Foundations on a Rock? (Tuesday 21 February, 2023)
Most people have experienced torrential storms and seen the effects of flooding or erosion. Thus, almost everyone can understand why it is important to build our lives on a sure foundation. In one of His most memorable parables, Jesus uses this backdrop to invite people of all walks of life turn to Him for spiritual strength and stability.Is Protecting Privacy an Act of Faith? (Sunday 19 February, 2023)
From the life of Christ, we can learn the role of privacy in maintaining our autonomy and dignity and how it relates to our spiritual and moral values.Teaching the Difference Between “Judging People” and “Righteous Judgement” (Sunday 19 February, 2023)
Because we often have the idea “don’t judge” drilled into our minds it’s important to help those we teach realize that, as President Oaks says, “We must, of course, make judgments every day in the exercise of our moral agency…We all make judgments in choosing our friends, in choosing how we will spend our time and our money, and, of course, in choosing an eternal companion.”A Slam Dunk of a Service Project: The NBA and the Church of Jesus Christ Feed the Hungry (Sunday 19 February, 2023)
Players and other volunteers assemble thousands of food and hygiene kits for friends in need throughout Utah.What Stumbling Blocks Are Keeping You From Getting Prepared? (Tuesday 14 February, 2023)
With billion dollar disasters occurring every 20 days, it may be time to once again address those things that may be sabotaging our preparedness plans. We have visited this subject before but it’s time to consider a few more things.A Month for Daring Romances! (Tuesday 14 February, 2023)
This month’s Book Chat features two romances with heroes and heroines who dare to face the unexpected curves on their road to love!Where Love Is… (Sunday 12 February, 2023)
Even though love is a choice that people make, it isn’t an instantaneous feeling and connection to a person. Love requires a level of investment that selfish people easily dismiss as a sign that there really isn’t love in a relationship at all. Understanding true love versus the modern social interpretation of love is vital for true happiness and good relationships.The Especially Prominent Point in Luke’s Version of the Sermon on the Mount (Sunday 12 February, 2023)
There is a point that is especially prominent in Luke’s version…can you find it? (Hint–if you look carefully, it’s clear that in Luke, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of a principle recently taught by Elder Holland). Find out more here.Cooking my way through ‘The Essential Mormon Cookbook’ (Sunday 12 February, 2023)
Becoming something of a Latter-day Saint Julie Powell suited me, as a resident funeral potatoes connoisseur.The Problem with Pornography in Creating Healthy Relationships (Tuesday 7 February, 2023)
Working with sex offenders in prison as they learn the skills for building better, more wholesome connections gave me important insights into how pornography can have no place in the development of healthy relationships.Why Did Jesus Compare Himself to the Brazen Serpent? (Tuesday 7 February, 2023)
These are only a handful of the many meanings embedded into serpent symbolism in the ancient world. Armed with these examples of serpent symbolism, however, readers can better appreciate why the brazen serpent would be used as a symbol for Jesus Christ.Where is Your Country on the Slippery Slope of Euthanasia? (Tuesday 7 February, 2023)
Abortion and Euthanasia are two sides of the same coin. That two-sided coin has maneuvered its way into countries all around the world, using feel-good sounding phrases to advance its operations of death. Let’s take a look at how it is gaining ground around the world.Practicing Mindfulness in Marital Intimacy (Tuesday 7 February, 2023)
When our sex lives are struggling, we have a tendency to drive up the intensity as a way to improve our experience. This often feels like an endless chase that leaves us feeling more defeated. Today we discuss the benefits of a different approach.The Way to Emotional Strength (Monday 6 February, 2023)
Holy scriptures teach that we are free "to act for [our]selves and not to be acted upon” (2 Nephi 2:24). When we simply react to the whims of our emotions, we are being acted upon by those emotions, which is inconsistent with becoming a free being.Europe Central Area presidency offers statement of empathy, support following quake that devastates Turkey, Syria (Monday 6 February, 2023)
The statement, issued the same day as a quake that has killed more than 2,300, says the Church is reaching out locally and globally to help with assistance.How can Latter-day Saints better prevent child sexual abuse? (Wednesday 1 February, 2023)
While abuse is a problem that extends far beyond the Latter-day Saint community, Church members who have worked within this space say Latter-day Saints can better engage in prevention. Here are five suggestions to help in that effort.Four Phases of Healing from Sexual Betrayal (Monday 30 January, 2023)
Betrayed partners often have difficulty knowing where they're at in the healing process. After the chaos of discovery and early recovery, the rest can seem like a blur. My guest is Tammy Gustafson, therapist, coach, and writer, who helps break down four distinct phases of healing from betrayal trauma.Some Brief Notes on Brigham Young as a Leader (Monday 30 January, 2023)
In February 1849, when the Saints were still relatively new in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake, President Brigham Young learned that some of them were going hungry while others seemed to be hoarding private supplies of grain. According to John D. Lee Brigham’s reaction was verbally fierce.How a ‘miraculous’ river crossing at the Johannesburg FSY taught youth to ‘trust in the Lord’ (Monday 30 January, 2023)
Over 500 youth made it across the flooded river, either on the backs of YSAs or on their own with the help of safety ropes.Elder Gong encourages youth to look for spiritual trail markers that lead to Christ (Sunday 29 January, 2023)
Worldwide devotional also features Young Women General President Bonnie H. Cordon, Young Men General President Steven J. Lund and eight youth hosts.What is Our Most Valuable Treasure? (Wednesday 25 January, 2023)
Children are the priceless jewels of life. How can we protect them?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Lesson Helps for Matt 3; Mark 1; Luke 3 (Wednesday 25 January, 2023)
“How could the Father show the world,” the Primary song asks, “the pathway we should go? He sent his Son to walk with men on earth, that we may know.” In other words, God the Father sent His Son, the Great Jehovah, to earth not just to tell us the way, but to show us. Jesus of Nazareth stands shoulder to shoulder with us at the front lines of life’s everyday battles, never forsaking us so long as we never forsake Him, either.Watch Elder Bednar’s Second Live Q&A on Instagram (Wednesday 25 January, 2023)
Apostle speaks about Jesus Christ, the sacrament, repentance, covenants and ordinances.Plans for Anchorage Alaska Temple — resizing, reconstructing and relocating (Tuesday 24 January, 2023)
First Presidency announces plans to build the enlarged temple on the site of an adjacent stake center on the temple property.A Third First Kiss? (Monday 23 January, 2023)
If you've read my book, Intentional Courtship, you know that my relationship with Cathy had its ups and downs over a two-year period. Since we had three dating relationships, we had three first kisses. I think we both intuitively understood that our third first kiss would be the last first kiss for each of us.Why Only 16% of Gen Z Are Proud to Be an American, and What We Should Do About It (Monday 23 January, 2023)
That finding comes from a recent Morning Consult poll, which assessed generational attitudes about the United States. The poll shows that there has been roughly a 20-percentage-point drop of pride in country every generation since the Baby Boomers, 73% of whom express pride in the country.The Baptist, the Apostle, and Wilford Woodruff: “We have found the Messias” (Wednesday 18 January, 2023)
The Apostle John the Beloved presents a humble yet powerful witness of the Savior in the Gospel of John. Wilford Woodruff, fourth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also knew the value of testifying.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “We Have Found the Messiah”, John 1 (Wednesday 18 January, 2023)
John’s own life was profoundly changed when he met the Savior. As we read his words, it is easy to see how much he wants to have others experience this drastically wonderful change as well. He possesses the unusual gift of clothing the profoundest ideas in language of childlike simplicity.In the Non-Fiction Corner with Lauren: “When It Doesn’t Make Sense” (Wednesday 18 January, 2023)
John Bytheway does it again with his timely and relevant book When It Doesn’t Make Sense. With stories and insights that are relatable to all ages, this book is a must-have for anyone who has had gospel questions or wondered why life isn’t “fair.”An Overlooked Example of the Book of Mormon’s Surprising Use of Book of Moses Material (Monday 16 January, 2023)
Since the Book of Moses translation began well after the Book of Mormon had been completed, such a high density of meaningful allusions and echoes, with a later text seeming to serve as an influential source for an earlier text, is highly unexpected and difficult to explain if both volumes were simply Joseph Smith’s concoctions.Hope for Aspiring Missionaries (Monday 16 January, 2023)
We all need to have a more complete understanding of hope. A young person who is struggling with his testimony frequently receives the counsel, “you need to have more faith,” when what he really needs is more hope.Expectations and Relationships (Monday 16 January, 2023)
Expectations create a sense of obligation, which eventually becomes a crushing burden. At this point you may be thinking, "So, what? Am I supposed to be a doormat and let people walk all over me? Am I supposed to have no standards at all?"Highlighting Our Latter-day Saint Musicians—Noteworthy (Thursday 12 January, 2023)
I love tight harmonies and BYU’s Noteworthy, comprised of nine powerhouse female vocalists, really nail those harmonies. Noteworthy is one of BYU’s top a cappella ensembles. We’ve seen them perform and we love them.“Are my fingers on the tapes?”: A Violin Lesson with an Unforgettable Message (Wednesday 11 January, 2023)
During one lesson, while I was holding his violin, I put my finger correctly on a tape and asked him, “Is my finger on the tape?” This was almost a rhetorical question; I was expecting an easy “Yes” in response. However, he answered, “Yeeesss...??” At that point, I realized that we needed to pause the violin lesson and have a life’s lesson....Creating “Shields not Swords” in the Fight for Rights (Wednesday 11 January, 2023)
A UN Independent Expert, given the responsibility to provide protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI), has been asked to put together a report for the United Nations on two seemingly irreconcilable spheres: one of freedom to exercise religious beliefs and one of freedom from discrimination based on SOGI.A New Appreciation for Mary (Wednesday 11 January, 2023)
In Bethlehem there is a place known as the “Milk Grotto.” It’s a site that helps us contemplate that at approximately age 15, Mary was on the run to a foreign country. Think about yourself as a fifteen year old — were you ready for such an endeavor?“At that time I was no longer in my body.” (Tuesday 10 January, 2023)
It’s astonishing how often, when the subject of near-death experiences comes up, someone in the group will say that she or somebody close to her has had one.Mental Health Minute: We Can Do Hard Things (Tuesday 10 January, 2023)
Have you ever faced a challenge? Have you ever wondered if you had the ability to accomplish an assignment or fulfill a responsibility? What scriptures do you recall where others have wondered if they could do hard things?Is Following the Prophet Really Enough to Be “All In”? (Tuesday 10 January, 2023)
To glean the principles to practice being “all in” and its broader meaning, I felt the early chapters of the Book of Mormon, which focus on the family of Lehi and Sariah, seemed to be a good place to begin.Mental Health Minute: Six Perspectives (Tuesday 3 January, 2023)
I don’t make very many guarantees in mental health therapy, but one thing is certain: there will be conflicts in relationships. The relationship might be between husband and wife, parent and child, brothers and sisters, friends, or even between missionary companions. It is not surprising that there are conflicts because we view things from a different perspective.A Recession: What Can We Do Now? (Tuesday 3 January, 2023)
If we prepare for just four scenarios, we can be prepared for almost all emergencies whether they be medical, financial or major disasters. One of those areas to prepare for is a job loss. That type of preparation is what we will be discussing this week.There Is In His Sight No Darkness at All (Wednesday 28 December, 2022)
How fitting that the light begins to increase each day as we pass the winter solstice on December 21st --so symbolic of the birth of Christ, the Light.Finding the Divine Design in Our “Un-ideal” Family (Wednesday 28 December, 2022)
Not having the “ideal” family in mortality can be painful, but we can use our realities to draw closer to the Savior.Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults with Elder and Sister Holland (Tuesday 27 December, 2022)
On January 8, 2023, join other young adults ages 18-30, married or single, at a worldwide devotional with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Patricia T. Holland.The Reason for All The Seasons (Friday 23 December, 2022)
Maybe you have wondered, in times of deep trial, or confusing experiences, “Did we really shout for joy when the foundations of the earth were laid so we could enter into our mortal experiences?”Planning Any Surprises for Christmas? (Wednesday 21 December, 2022)
Humans are drawn to the element of surprise. Read on to see the surprise reason!Helping Missionaries Enjoy the Holidays (Wednesday 21 December, 2022)
Today missionaries can call their families with more frequency so the Christmas Day phone call may have a different tone. Rather than catching up on each member in a large extended family, or talking about how much they are missed, today we’re more inclined to use phone calls with a missionary to fortify Faith in Christ. Here's how to keep that central to the conversation.Jesus Is the Light of the World—A Family Activity (Wednesday 21 December, 2022)
As Christmas festivities are filling our days, are we as focused on the Savior as we could be? Here is a family activity that can help redirect our thoughts to Him whom we celebrate this season.A Holy Night with a White Flag Waving (Tuesday 20 December, 2022)
Privileged to wear the cloth of my beloved country, I was, in 2005, in Balad, Iraq as a medic caring for front-line American and Iraqi soldiers seeking to safeguard America’s freedom and enhance Iraqi’s sovereignty. One December night, I had an experience that brought new meaning to the peace that Christmas brings.Mental Health Minute: Finding Joy in Every Circumstance (Tuesday 20 December, 2022)
President Nelson exclaimed: “Saints can be happy under every circumstance. We can feel joy even while having a bad day, a bad week, or even a bad year! My dear brothers and sisters, the joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.”Helping People Feel Remembered, One Ornament at a Time (Tuesday 20 December, 2022)
Each year, thousands suffer after surviving a natural disaster. As I have spoken to survivors, they often mention missing the Christmas ornaments they lost. I have often thought of this loss, so in 2020 when the towns of Talent and Lincoln City Oregon lost many homes to a fire, I reached out to family and friends and made a little over 600 ornaments. That was just the beginning.Surviving an Avalanche: A Story of Faith (Wednesday 14 December, 2022)
Snow is beautiful. Snow is magical. It sets the stage for endless fun. But snow is also deadly when the conditions are right. When a massive avalanche hits a group of 12, tragedy often strikes and lives are lost, but on this day surviving an avalanche turned into a story of faith.VIDEO: How Much Do You Actually Know About the First Christmas? (Wednesday 14 December, 2022)
What do we know from the scriptures, and what do we “know” because that’s what we always heard growing up (but it’s not actually true). Learn more in this CFM Christmas quiz!Do You Really Understand Shyness? Probably Not (Wednesday 14 December, 2022)
If you Google “famous introverts,” you’ll get an interesting list of luminaries: Albert Einstein, Rosa Parks, Bill Gates, Steven Spielberg, Eleanor Roosevelt, and many others. “But wait,” you might say. “How can people like that be shy?" If that’s your response, you’ve made the common mistake of confusing introversion for shyness.Why Does Malachi Refer to the Sun of Righteousness? (Tuesday 13 December, 2022)
The prophet Malachi promised the Israelites that if they kept God’s commandments, they would be blessed. In one such promise, Malachi stated that the “Sun of righteousness [would] arise with healing in his wings”. Descriptions of the Lord paired with the sun are found throughout the scriptures, often evoking connections between the idea of the sun and fertility, righteousness, or justice.The Treasure Box Letters (Tuesday 13 December, 2022)
Imagine opening up a box and finding 65 years of letters containing the life stories of a person who was nearly one-hundred years old. What a treasure! This is what I experienced when Margit needed my help with several projects.From Crisis to Connection: Improve Your Self-awareness (Tuesday 13 December, 2022)
Self-awareness will improve your relationship with yourself and with others. For this week's episode of From Crisis to Connection, my wife and I invited Genny Rumancik from the EQ School to join us for a discussion on how to build self-awareness.Four Suggestions for Finding Hope When All Seems Lost (Monday 12 December, 2022)
Sometimes the circumstances of life seem so overwhelming and unfixable that we think we're stuck in a pit we can never escape. Some of you have felt this way over the holidays while everyone else seemed to be celebrating. Here are a few ways to start regaining some hope.Site Announced for Temple in Las Vegas; Ground Broken for Torreón Mexico Temple (Monday 12 December, 2022)
The status of two temples was recently updated with information released in the Church Newsroom. Here are excerpts from those reports.Making BYU and the World Better — “From the Inside Out” (Wednesday 7 December, 2022)
In this final part of the series, we will consider more closely what kind of practical steps might be taken in order to implement the idea of moral and spiritual “self-reliance” preached by Elder Christofferson as the core of a “gospel methodology at BYU.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “I Have Loved You, Saith the Lord”, Malachi (Wednesday 7 December, 2022)
Some people find it hard to believe that the story of the Old Testament is really a story of love for his covenant people. There are many examples of rebellion and hard hearts among the chosen ones. Yet throughout all of that, God’s hesed, or covenant love was always freely offered.Find out if Your Stake is Assigned to Participate in FSY this Year (Wednesday 7 December, 2022)
Currently, FSY events are arranged so that just half the stakes in the United States and Canada can participate each year, with opportunities for participation alternating from year to year. Are you up this year? Find out here.Spiritual and Moral Self-Reliance under God as the Key to “Gospel Methodology” (Tuesday 6 December, 2022)
In today’s installment (Part Three), we will see that Elder Christofferson’s speech in the August 2022 BYU opening conference, pointed the way towards a substantive understanding of “gospel methodology.”Stay Safe During the Long, Cold Winter (Tuesday 6 December, 2022)
Yes, you can get hypothermia or frostbite in your home when temperatures fall below freezing. Now is time to think through a plan and assemble needed supplies. Once the power has failed, it is time to use those items and take action.Mental Health Minute: Managing the Holiday Blues (Tuesday 6 December, 2022)
For many people, the holidays are not the “most wonderful time of the year.” They do not feel “peace on earth, good will toward men.” Even standing with family or friends in front of a beautiful Christmas display does not bring the spirit of the season. So what can we do to help get out of the slump?BYU’s Special Mission Confronts the Secular Academy (Monday 5 December, 2022)
In this second part of the series, we consider BYU Academic Vice President Shane Reese’s counsel regarding a gospel methodology and then examine why many faculty seem to be unwilling or unable to follow such counsel.How NOT to End up “Like an Old Married Couple” (Monday 5 December, 2022)
You know the cringe-worthy old married couple who openly bicker about each other in front of other people? You can take deliberate steps towards not ending up like them.Great Books to Gift the Reader on Your List! (Monday 5 December, 2022)
I have read some really wonderful books this year and I’ve loved sharing so many of them with you all on Book Chat with Julie! With Christmas just around the corner, I’d like to recommend a few of the books I’ll be buying for the readers on my Christmas list this year.VIDEO: “Consider Your Ways” (Sunday 4 December, 2022)
The book of Haggai is a short book that covers only four months. The basic premise is that the people were more focused on building up their own wealth than prioritizing the temple. Haggai’s message to them has relevance to us today: “Consider your ways.”Highlighting Our Latter-day Saint Musicians—Jenny Oaks Baker, Dallyn Bayles and Lyceum Philharmonic (Sunday 4 December, 2022)
We have known Jenny Oaks Baker and Dallyn Vail Bayles for a lot of years and we love them, not only for the supreme quality of their music, but more importantly for the quality and purity of their souls.Watch the First Presidency’s Christmas Devotional (Sunday 4 December, 2022)
“Christmas is a time to eliminate arrogance and provocation, to subdue criticism, to practice patience and to de-emphasize differences among people,” President Oaks says.“How inexpressibly sad are all holidays.” (Wednesday 30 November, 2022)
As I write, there are only twenty-five shopping days remaining until Christmas. But I hope that, amidst all of the frenetic activity that precedes the biggest holiday of the year, we’ll all be able to find at least a little bit of time for reflection.‘Profound Consequences’: Sen. Mike Lee Outlines How Respect for Marriage Act Will Affect People of Faith (Wednesday 30 November, 2022)
This is a small excerpt of remarks Sen. Mike Lee delivered before his amendment to the so-called Respect for Marriage Act was voted on. That amendment failed in a 48-49 vote Tuesday. Shortly after, the Senate passed the Respect for Marriage Act.Mental Health Minute: Criticism and Compliments (Wednesday 30 November, 2022)
When I served as a young missionary, our mission president’s wife told us, “If you have something good to say about your companion, stand on the rooftop and shout it out! If you have anything bad to say, bite your tongue and don’t say anything.”Meeting a Murderer in Texas (Wednesday 30 November, 2022)
This is us on our 21st Anniversary trip – the weekend we met the murderer, and the weekend we saw the redemption of a parent’s worst nightmare.The New High Priests–Or Are They Ancient? (Wednesday 30 November, 2022)
You know, THIS is precisely the kind of mischief you get because the world acknowledges no true prophet. These types of gross mischaracterizations have clogged the minds of God's children for too long, and oh, what mischief is wrought thereby!Principle-Based Learning: The Time Has Come (Monday 21 November, 2022)
The most frequent response I hear to the news that the church has a new Strength of Youth pamphlet is “It’s about time.” I share the enthusiasm of these saints for this new pamphlet. However, I do not think the church was guilty of lallygagging. I believe the changes came at when they needed to come.VIDEO: Jesus Christ’s Use of Micah (Sunday 20 November, 2022)
It probably doesn’t surprise to know that when Christ visited the Nephites he quoted from Isaiah, Moses, and Malachi. But did you know he also quoted from Micah? Learn about Christ’s use of Micah in this Come Follow Me video.VIDEO: A Modern Take on “God Help the Outcasts” (Sunday 20 November, 2022)
In this lovely cover by Wayne Burton and members of Utah's own One Voice Children's Choir, we peek into a modern view of what it means to feel like an outcast today.The Uses of Adversity (Wednesday 16 November, 2022)
Admit it. There are times when you wish your troubled adult child would “hit bottom” because there is nowhere to go from there but up. Philosophers, poets and prophets have long argued that a little bit of hardship can go a long way toward building character.Is ‘Fake News’ Creeping into Your Belief System? (Wednesday 16 November, 2022)
When it comes to your core philosophy—your views on faith, social, and political issues—how do you navigate the sometimes-bewildering maze of conflicting perspectives?Hallmark Channel: “It is a Completely Different Network than When I Started” (Wednesday 16 November, 2022)
Candace Cameron Bure, who is a familiar face from 30 Hallmark films she has been in, has quit Hallmark, the company, where she was employed for 10 years to join the Great American Family, a new cable network.Women Abusing Men: The Victims You’ve Not Heard About (Tuesday 15 November, 2022)
The domestic abuse waylaid on women is a familiar story, but there is a sequel, and it goes something like this: Men face domestic abuse too but they do so silently. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that studies showed one in three men experience physical and sexual abuse and stalking during their life.Church Releases Statement on the United States Congress Respect for Marriage Act (Tuesday 15 November, 2022)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released the following statement on Tuesday, November 15, 2022.In the Non-Fiction Corner with Lauren: Not Original Sin, But “Original Grace” (Tuesday 15 November, 2022)
After recently losing his father, Miller combines lessons learned from his dad with what he has found about grace in all of his studies. The author’s premise in Original Grace is that instead of original sin, God gives us original grace. God doesn’t give us what we deserve, God always gives us what we need.Artist Spotlight: “The Rest of the Lord”, by Jonathan Clark (Monday 14 November, 2022)
Inspired by President Nelson’s recent conference address, Jonathan beautifully portrays the dark clouds of turmoil and actions that surround and exhaust us contrasted with the bright peace and rest we feel as we embrace (and are embraced) by the Savior through making and keeping sacred covenants.Hugh Nibley’s Unique Mind and Pivotal Influence (Sunday 13 November, 2022)
Hugh Nibley was a pivotal influence on my early life and subsequent direction—and not only on mine. He was one of a kind. “Don't be like anybody else,” he famously said. “Be different. Then you can make a contribution. Otherwise, you just echo something; you're just a reflection.”10 Rules for Listening to Someone Who Needs You (Sunday 13 November, 2022)
Ten ideas for listening to others, especially when they really need to be heard.The Prophet Teaches the ABCs of Preparing for Worship in a House of the Lord (Sunday 13 November, 2022)
President Nelson is joined by his wife, Wendy, and President M. Russell Ballard in a devotional for Saints in Nevada and parts of California and Arizona.This New Little Being is Going to Lift You Up (Wednesday 9 November, 2022)
In many ways, children with disabilities seem ahead of the pack.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Seek the Lord, and Ye Shall Live”, Amos; Obadiah (Wednesday 9 November, 2022)
Abraham’s posterity were called to be a blessing to “all the families of the earth”. And yet, at the time of Amos, they were hardly acting like a “chosen people.” They were not only ignoring the words of the prophets, and breaking their vertical covenant with God, but they were oppressing the needy, and breaking their horizontal covenant to care for their fellow man.Reflections of Christmas Past (Wednesday 9 November, 2022)
Some of the best things to put under your tree this year are gifts of memory and family heritage. Here is an example.Divorce and the Holidays (Monday 7 November, 2022)
The holidays, which are fast approaching, often accentuate the grief of divorced people, particularly the newly divorced. It is often an all too poignant reminder of the dreams we have lost and the loneliness we feel. Here are a few suggestions for how to cope.VIDEO: Hosea’s Account of the Lord’s Everlasting Love (Monday 7 November, 2022)
In the book of Hosea, Gomer represents you and me and Hosea represents Jesus. Even though we've covenanted with the Lord, we sometimes turn our back on Him. The story of Hosea gives us a powerful metaphor to connect with Christ.Ground broken for Willamette Valley Oregon Temple (Tuesday 1 November, 2022)
Located in a suburb of Eugene, the temple will be Oregon’s third, joining temples in Portland and Medford.New Episode in Book of Mormon Videos series, “Jesus Christ and Angels Minister with Compassion” (Monday 31 October, 2022)
The Church has released the newest episode in the Book of Mormon Videos series, “Jesus Christ and Angels Minister with Compassion”. See it here.When God Weighed in on the Sabbath Day (Wednesday 26 October, 2022)
A jolting message clarified my friend’s life.What It’s Like to be Cyberbullied (Sunday 23 October, 2022)
I was shocked after reviewing research on cyberbullying and then witnessing others go through it. But it wasn’t until I experienced it myself that I appreciated what it does to you.Are you giving your black sheep a baaad rap? (Sunday 23 October, 2022)
Sheep get no respect. Nobody wants a child to turn out to be the “lost sheep” or the “black sheep.” It’s time to take a broader look at these misunderstood mammals, and at your adult children who fit the description. You may have been wrong about both.Brigham Young Family Cemetery Reopens After Major Renovation (Sunday 23 October, 2022)
Landmark is rededicated by Utah Area President.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I know if my husband is abusive? (Thursday 20 October, 2022)
I have been staying with my daughter for about six months going home to my husband only occasionally. Every time I try it always comes back to everything that's wrong with me and how I don't do this or that. I have lost my confidence and am so afraid of being alone. I think I have finally had all I can take but I still want him. What's wrong with me?Mental Health Minute: What About Anxiety? (Tuesday 18 October, 2022)
Where does anxiety come from? Sometimes it can be a medical condition. Most often it comes from how we view ourselves, how we view others, how we view relationships, and how we view the world. When we can challenge and change our viewpoint, we can change how we feel and how we act.Mexico City Spotlights the Strength of the Pro-family Effort (Tuesday 18 October, 2022)
Sometimes, one can feel very lonely in our efforts to celebrate, promote, and defend the family. It can be intimidating when cancel culture comes stalking or peers point fingers of shame in our direction. But you, we, are not alone in this effort.You’ve studied Jeremiah…have you watched the movie? (Tuesday 18 October, 2022)
In 1998 the full-length movie “Jeremiah,” starring Patrick Dempsey was released. The movie is not 100% scriptural, but Dempsey does a great job portraying Jeremiah. The movie includes many scenes from the Book of Jeremiah and will help make them come alive for you!Helping Following a Disaster (Tuesday 11 October, 2022)
Many want to help following a disaster and they load their cars and take their boats to lend a hand. It is important to remember when you are aiding in cleanup after a disaster, nothing will be provided for you to use. Bring as much of your own food, shelter and equipment as possible. Here is a suggested list.Mental Health Minute: Keep on Playing (Tuesday 11 October, 2022)
There may be times in our life when it is difficult to see the end from where we are now. Whatever our challenge, what would it be like to focus on one week at a time and one day at a time?What we miss when we think only of women’s virtue instead of their valor (Tuesday 11 October, 2022)
Reading Proverbs in a new light reveals that a “virtuous woman” is in fact a warrior—and so are you.Deciding if a Religious University is Religious Enough (Wednesday 5 October, 2022)
Did the Supreme Court turn its back on religious universities?VIDEO: Evidence of the Book of Mormon: Internally Fulfilled Prophecies (Wednesday 5 October, 2022)
As a record written by ancient prophets, it isn’t too surprising that the Book of Mormon is full of ancient prophecies. What most readers probably haven’t noticed is that those prophecies are frequently fulfilled in the text itself, as can be seen on over 100 occasions!How Can Nephi’s Writings Help All Readers Embrace the Book of Isaiah? (Tuesday 4 October, 2022)
As Latter-day Saints are completing their Come, Follow Me study of Isaiah this week, it can be helpful to step-back and look at the big picture of Isaiah’s collective message across his entire book. This can sometimes be hard to discern, since many of the individual prophecies and passages are dense and difficult to interpret, but the Book of Mormon can be a valuable aid.Why Is Isaiah 53 the Crown Jewel of the Old Testament? (Part 2 of 2) (Wednesday 28 September, 2022)
How might we understand some of the difficult-to-comprehend verses? How has this chapter changed the lives of some Latter-day Saints?What’s Worrying You? (Wednesday 28 September, 2022)
Isn’t worry just part of the mortal experience?VIDEO: The October 2022 Edition of the World Report (Wednesday 28 September, 2022)
The October 2022 World Report features rededicated historic temples in Washington, D.C., and Tokyo, and President Russell M. Nelson marking the announcements of the construction of 100 new temples over the last four years.The Expressive Self: Identity Above Truth (Tuesday 27 September, 2022)
Influential voices tell us that to be yourself, you need to reject external sources of meaning—and follow “your truth.” But detaching authenticity from truth leads to emptiness, not fulfillment.A Teenage Refugee and an Unforgettable Lesson (Tuesday 27 September, 2022)
By this point in my career, I was no stranger to refugee camps and settlements, and I had come to understand that one of the greatest services we could render was to ask about the residents’ stories…and then to genuinely listen.Why Did Isaiah Prophesy of a Suffering Messiah? (Tuesday 27 September, 2022)
Few prophetic passages in the Old Testament rival Isaiah 53 (known as the Song of the Suffering Servant) in beauty, power, and enduring impact among devout Jews and Christians around the world. Naturally, given its importance to people of differing religious backgrounds, its meaning has been hotly contested through the centuries.Help Your Family Understand Why They Can Trust Living Prophets––Including on the Most Controversial Topics (Monday 26 September, 2022)
We live in troubled times. When have we––our families and the world––ever needed prophets more than we do now? And yet, even among members, there are many who don’t know quite what to make of living prophets. "The Last Safe Place", a new book from Meridian Press, can help in that journey toward better understanding.The Inspired Timing of the Book of Mormon (Wednesday 21 September, 2022)
When Moroni delivered the Book of Mormon plates to Joseph Smith in 1827 (on the night and early morning of September 21-22), it was the first day of the new Fall season. That date was not chosen by chance. The coming forth of the Book of Mormon was the signal that a new season of spirituality was about to dawn across the earth. Besides being the first day of Fall, that date was important for another reason.Don’t You Give Up! (Wednesday 21 September, 2022)
Five things to remember when you feel overwhelmed by growing trials.“He Hath Borne Our Griefs and Carried Our Sorrows”—Come, Follow Me for Sunday School, Isaiah 50-57 (Wednesday 21 September, 2022)
As we study Isaiah 50-57, its helpful to remember a few scriptural principles to aid our study. First, as Elder Oaks taught, “A scripture is not limited to what it meant when it was written but may also include what that scripture means to a reader today.”Your Kids Need to Hear It from You, First! (Tuesday 20 September, 2022)
Here’s some back to school tips from a pastor’s wife and mother of four teens who, despite attending Woke public school in Seattle, are holding fast to their convictions.How Did Isaiah Prophesy of the Savior? (Tuesday 20 September, 2022)
It is possible that multiple interpretations of Isaiah’s prophecies exist since many of them have multiple fulfilments, some of which precede and point to the greater fulfilment in Jesus.Watch Elder Bednar’s live Q&A on Instagram (Tuesday 20 September, 2022)
This is the first time a leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has used this feature of the social media platform.Blame and Marrying the “Wrong” Person (Monday 19 September, 2022)
It is tempting to tell myself the story: “I could have had a good marriage with the right person. But since I married the wrong person, it broke up.” That message assumes two things that are not necessarily true.A River Ran Over Her (Monday 19 September, 2022)
When Dr. Mary Neal's kayak became wedged between two boulders, leaving her stuck face down in the water, she knew if help didn't come soon, she would drown. Altogether and astoundingly, she was underwater for approximately thirty minutes. The fact that she was revived, and without brain damage, is a remarkable miracle in itself. What she remembers from that time is even more miraculous.How Families Can Be a Resource in Addiction Recovery (Monday 19 September, 2022)
Family members can both help and harm those recovering from addiction. Having the right education and resources makes all the difference for families who want to help.Heavenly Mother Should Be Joyful, Not Another Cultural Battle (Monday 12 September, 2022)
Is it possible to treasure what has been revealed about Heavenly Mother without descending into the kind of acrimonious debate we see online? Of course, it is, say Bethany and McArthur.Mental Health Minute: Self-Worth and Self-Confidence (Monday 12 September, 2022)
A lot of people I talk to, including missionaries, college students, men and women, feel like they just aren’t good enough. They feel inadequate. They feel like they should be so much better. For a long time, I have tried to use counseling methods to help them recognize that they are adequate, they are good enough. But then I decided to try a different approach.VIDEO: What did Elder Jeffrey R. Holland say about Isaiah’s phrase, “A nail in a sure place”? (Monday 12 September, 2022)
Across the scriptures, there are more than 100 titles for the Savior, each of which provides insight into His life and ministry. The one we will discuss today isn't talked about very often. Nonetheless, it is worthy of discussion.Getting Past the Myths of “Gender-Affirming” Care (Tuesday 6 September, 2022)
Mainstream media pushes the narrative that “Gender affirming care” is a child’s only hope of survival for discomfort with their gender or sexuality. Medical professionals give concerned parents an ultimatum: Transition their child, or watch helplessly as their child is driven to suicide. Here's why that ultimatum is founded on flawed logic.VIDEO: A Simple Trick To Help You Understand Isaiah Better (Tuesday 6 September, 2022)
We’re about to launch into five weeks of studying Isaiah in Come Follow Me. The video, “Seeking Jesus Class 6: Isaiah Testifies of Christ” shows a simple trick for how to use the “Isaiah Map” to better understand Isaiah, and gives several examples of how it works.Why Did Isaiah Refer to the Heavenly Hosts as “Seraphim”? (Tuesday 6 September, 2022)
In many ways, Isaiah’s vision of God on His throne is representative of biblical throne theophanies, which often include members of the divine council or heavenly hosts surrounding the throne and singing praises to God. Isaiah’s language is unique, however, in identifying the angelic beings surrounding God’s throne as "seraphim".Refusing the Victim Mindset Even When You’ve Been Victimized (Monday 5 September, 2022)
In this episode of From Crisis to Connection, I interview recovery coaches, Lindsay and Danny Poelman, who teach about how to take personal responsibility through the recovery process no matter what has happened to you.Apples and Oranges: The Envy Trap (Thursday 1 September, 2022)
There are two types of parents in my sphere. They identify themselves by their reaction when I mention I’m researching the subject of parenting adult children. The first type will look puzzled and say, “What do you mean?” The second type, my people, will hustle me aside and whisper, “Tell me more. I need to know what to do, right now.”Hidden Things: A New Meaning for the Rooster that Marked Peter’s Denial (Wednesday 31 August, 2022)
Surely, to many, the sound of that cock’s crow signals failure, weakness, the agony of our collective failure as mortals to stand tall when it is hardest. But I want that sound and that moment to mean something different to you.How True Accountability Is About Choice, Not Blame (Wednesday 31 August, 2022)
My friend Stephen R. Covey gave us a treasure trove of wisdom about human performance. One of his most enlightening aphorisms was “accountability breeds response-ability.”Are We Spiders or Butterflies? (Monday 29 August, 2022)
One of the greatest revelations of truth in the Restoration was the first one – the nature of God and following shortly thereafter, how He sees us.When You Need a Parental Do-over (Monday 29 August, 2022)
There they stood, a father who had expected more maturity than his son possessed, and a 17-year-old boy with a hangover trying to figure out what happened.Elder Bednar: ‘It is unreasonable to claim that faith in Jesus Christ is unreasonable’ (Monday 29 August, 2022)
Apostle presents first of two-part devotional series on belief, sustained by foundational truths of the restored gospel.What Temple Square Teaches About Change (Sunday 28 August, 2022)
Cherish the ground you walk on. Honor the influences that uphold you. They’re always there—until they’re not.VIDEO: Is It Okay to Use Bibles Besides the King James Version? (Sunday 28 August, 2022)
In 2021, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made a small change in its handbook that could have a large influence on how you study the Bible.A surprise guest at the Ephraim Utah Temple groundbreaking, President Nelson honors central Utah’s history, pioneers (Sunday 28 August, 2022)
Rain interrupting the sacred ceremony was the ‘tears of joy’ of those who established the community, participants say.The Forgotten Teaching of King Benjamin (Tuesday 16 August, 2022)
When we talk about cultivating gratitude, we rarely think about indebtedness. I began to draw this connection several years ago when I started researching gratitude and religious conversion in teens and young adults.What is Your Preparedness IQ? (Tuesday 16 August, 2022)
How informed are you and how prepared? The following 24 questions are just a very brief survey to help you evaluate your preparations. Answer all the questions first and then read and study the answers.Why Does the Psalmist Speak about Grasping God’s Hand? (Tuesday 16 August, 2022)
Many passages in the Old Testament—but especially in the Psalms—refer to grasping the Lord’s right hand. These passages can be illuminated by an understanding of the concept referred to as a divine embrace or divine handclasp, which shows up frequently in ancient art, writings, and rituals.VIDEO: What Makes Nitric Oxide the Miracle Molecule? (Thursday 11 August, 2022)
More than 200,000 studies have been done on the miracle molecule Nitric Oxide. Cardio Miracle delivers this to your body in amazing ways. Now, after nearly 4 years of taking this product every day, Meridian's publisher, Scot Proctor, wanted to know some of the science behind building his immune system. Come and see what he learned.Ben Schilaty: Questions I’m Often Asked as a Gay Latter-day Saint (Wednesday 10 August, 2022)
Ben Schilaty, a returned missionary and current BYU employee, has been asking himself hard questions about same-sex attraction for twenty years. Finally, Ben decided to share his hard-won wisdom in A Walk in My Shoes: Questions I’m Often Asked as a Gay Latter-day Saint. This book has helped me understand the challenges faced by same-sex attracted Church members.What if Your Spouse Has a Problem that Needs Fixing? (Wednesday 10 August, 2022)
When experts say there is no one key to a happy marriage, they might be overlooking this one thing.President Nelson Asks How People are Taking Charge of Their Testimonies: Here are Some of the Responses (Wednesday 10 August, 2022)
Earlier this month, President Russell M. Nelson invited people to, "take charge of your testimony of Jesus Christ" in posts that appeared on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. On Wednesday, August 10, he returned to those social media platforms to ask people to share the specifics of how they were doing that. Here are some of the thousands of responses.President Dallin H. Oaks: ‘We have got to think about religious freedom for all the children of God’ (Tuesday 9 August, 2022)
President Oaks speaks about the importance of religious freedom from the Rome Italy Temple Visitors’ Center.Givers and Takers (Wednesday 3 August, 2022)
Do your boundaries sometimes get mowed down?Job’s Job (Wednesday 3 August, 2022)
What was Job’s job? What can we learn? The story of Job teaches several important lessons to all who are engaged in a righteous cause. Our work may not be popular or well received. We may be misunderstood and falsely accused, even by our friends and closest allies. The Lord will try us, to see what we are made of.VIDEO: A Secret for Finding Hope (Wednesday 3 August, 2022)
How do we find hope, even when things are hard? Job’s focus on hope can teach us a lot. Learn more in this video.Faithful Mid-Singles Are Pioneers (Monday 25 July, 2022)
As mid-singles, many of you have faced the hardships of single parenthood, the loneliness of life without a partner, dire financial shortages, the pain of rejection by those you have loved, and uncertainty about the future. We press forward toward our dream of Zion like our pioneer ancestors and our faithfulness matters, as theirs did.Crossing Time Zones With a Full Tank (Monday 25 July, 2022)
The publisher of Meridian Magazine has become a fierce advocate of his own health and he has noticed in the last few years of world travel that he hardly has to deal with jet lag anymore. In this first lightning round discussion with Cardio Miracle Founder and Formulator, John Hewlett, the two explore the reasons behind this boost or energy and new approach to travel.The Benefits of Music on Memory (Monday 25 July, 2022)
Studies show that music is a powerful treatment for mental health, Alzheimers, and even cancer. What music do you turn to for comfort? Here is the latest research about how music impacts health, spirituality and story.When Your Children Aren’t Checking the Boxes (Tuesday 19 July, 2022)
Maybe there were plenty of boxes you did check: Family Home Evening, family prayer, family scripture reading, family dinner around the table every night. Logically you knew those were not guarantees of a certain outcome. But in your heart you still expected that outcome as a reward for following the rules.Thriving During Challenging Times (Tuesday 19 July, 2022)
Now may be the time to help family and friends who have not caught the vision to join the grass roots movement toward self reliance, or to re-ignite your own enthusiasm. Along with this movement comes some terrible advice. Let’s do a little reviewing.Why Did Ancient Israelites Lift Their Hands in Praise? (Tuesday 19 July, 2022)
Better understanding the gestures of approach used by the ancient Israelites can be instrumental for Latter-day Saints and can also offer additional context for many restored practices performed today.Nehemiah’s Gates of Jerusalem as a Type of the Covenant Path (Monday 18 July, 2022)
To walk the covenant path is to “grow up” in Christ and receive a “fulness of the Holy Ghost.” Jerusalem’s ten gates are the picture of the individual disciple’s walk with the “good shepherd” and the sheepfold where Christ dwells among his sheep through his temple.VIDEO: Three Lessons from Nehemiah on How To Do Amazing Things with Your Life (Sunday 17 July, 2022)
God put something special into Nehemiah’s heart. From Nehemiah’s response, we can learn 3 powerful lessons for doing incredible things. Learn more here.New Institute Class Teaches How to Find Answers to Gospel Questions (Sunday 17 July, 2022)
The Church has designed this new institute class to provide an environment where young adults can explore questions they have about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints without feeling judged.Your Hardest Family Question: Why does my husband excel at work but not in our marriage? (Thursday 14 July, 2022)
At work, he's attentive, task orientated, he sets priorities, he follows through, and it's very important to him what his manager thinks of him. He fails at all those things in our relationship as he believes it's a skillset he doesn't have.Join the FAIR Conference to Defend Faith In Person and Online (Thursday 14 July, 2022)
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who have questions about the recent TV series “Under the Banner of Heaven,” and other timely issues, are invited to a conference designed to equip them with knowledge, context, and new research.Creating New Memories with Ancestors We’re Anxious to Know (Monday 4 July, 2022)
We may not have had the chance to share certain experiences with our ancestors, but that doesn't mean we can't take the opportunity to imagine what it would be like to be by their side for those moments that meant everything.VIDEO: An Important Lesson from a Little-Known Prophet (Monday 4 July, 2022)
What do you know of the prophet Micaiah? His story is not well known, but his boldness and integrity in the face of enormous peer pressure provide an important lesson for us today.Books that Feature Brave Men and Women (Monday 4 July, 2022)
Welcome to Book Chat with Julie! For your July reading, we have some great book recommendations that feature brave men and women from all eras of the American military.Overcoming the Obstacles to Effective Prayer (Tuesday 28 June, 2022)
Joseph Smith said, "It is the first principle of the Gospel to know for a certainty the Character of God, and to know that we may converse with him as one man converses with another...” But how do we do that?Truth: Can it Be Known? (Tuesday 28 June, 2022)
Is there such a thing as absolute truth? Is certainty possible or only a hopeful claim? Does belief demand evidence before it is proffered? Is doubt a necessary part of questioning or questioning part of doubt? Is faith a lazy substitute for knowledge or something entirely different?How Does the Book of Mormon Text Reflect a Seventh-Century-BC Israelite Writing Style? (Tuesday 28 June, 2022)
Recently, biblical scholar David R. Seely has taken a closer look at the specific rhetorical forms of chiasmus in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon and found “four specific usages of chiasmus that are relatively distinctive in Deuteronomy and Jeremiah as possible indicators of the seventh-century [BC] Judahite rhetorical tradition.” These four chiastic types are found in the Book of Mormon, suggesting it is part of this same rhetorical tradition.Openness — You can’t rally your troops if you’re hiding the problem (Excerpt 4 of 5) (Thursday 23 June, 2022)
A house divided cannot stand. Satan uses shame to divide us. But deep problems can never be overcome alone.Official Statement from the Church: The Importance of Water Conservation (Wednesday 22 June, 2022)
We all play a part in preserving the critical resources needed to sustain life — especially water — and we invite others to join us in reducing water use wherever possibleWhat Creature is the Most Adaptable? (Wednesday 22 June, 2022)
And what can we learn from this?Are You Part of Today’s Counterculture? (Tuesday 21 June, 2022)
The ideology of freedom of sexuality and morality has taken hold of our society so effectively that the counterculture of my youth is now the mainstream culture of today. Marriage has been redefined and losing its importance in society's eye. How can we be part of today’s counterculture?Fathers and Consequences (Tuesday 21 June, 2022)
A wise father teaches his kids the meaning of consequences when choices are made.Who’s Watching Out for the Children? A Controversy in China and the Vaccination of Infants in the US (Tuesday 21 June, 2022)
We are the only nation on the planet vaccinating infants. Is this a good idea? Do we really know what we are doing to our children? Do babies and young children really need to be vaccinated? And can we trust that the influences from schools or other outside sources will be safe and wholesome for our kids?A Juneteenth Update on How the NAACP and the Church Are Blessing God’s Children (Monday 20 June, 2022)
58 students have received scholarships, 47 more are headed to Ghana in July, and humanitarian projects are being planned in five U.S. citiesPraia Cabo Verde Temple Dedicated (Monday 20 June, 2022)
The first temple in the island country is the 173rd operating temple of the ChurchLatter-day Saints in Europe Donate Over 900 Tons of Food to Ukraine (Monday 20 June, 2022)
Supply chain delays and shortages in Ukraine create urgent need for provisionsThe Case for Heroic Masculinity (Sunday 19 June, 2022)
The problem is not that masculinity is toxic. The problem is that we have abandoned the heroic and noble masculine virtues that the world so desperately needs today.Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Smithfield Utah Temple (Sunday 19 June, 2022)
Two Apostles in attendance at state's latest temple groundbreakingGround Broken for Yorba Linda California Temple (Sunday 19 June, 2022)
Ground has been broken in Yorba Linda, California, for the Yorba Linda California Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Will be the state’s ninth house of the Lord.Come Follow Me #26 – Weeping for David: 2 Sam. 5-7; 11-12; 1 Kings 3; 8; 11 (Thursday 16 June, 2022)
We are amazed as we go through the Old Testament how applicable these lessons are today. You'd think that a book that is thousands of years old would not have that kind of application, but we have been blown away. These chapters break your heart as we learn more about David, his love for the Lord and the events that lead to his downfall. How can someone so faithful and true turn from God so deliberately? We will discuss this today.David vs. Nursery Kids (Thursday 16 June, 2022)
The irony of teaching scripture stories to nursery kidsYour Hardest Family Question: How do we work with different time management styles in marriage? (Thursday 16 June, 2022)
How do you address troublesome differences between time management styles in a marriage? What suggestions are there to work through theses differences and resolve the issues that has become a wedge between us?Chasing the Light (Wednesday 15 June, 2022)
Lighting makes all the difference in photography. It also makes all the difference in our lives.Come Follow Me, June 20, 2022: “Thy Kingdom Shall Be Established Forever” — 2 Samuel 5–7; 1 Kings 3; 8; 11 (Wednesday 15 June, 2022)
The temple is the great symbol of the eternal kingdom of God. In this continually changing, deteriorating world, the temple is the only constant. Our Father continually calls us to the temple. When we remember the temple, we remember Him and carry out our sacrament covenants.Spiritual Work: The Lord Loves Effort (Tuesday 14 June, 2022)
Russell M. Nelson said, "Everything to do with becoming more like the Savior is difficult...the Lord loves effort, because effort brings rewards that can’t come without it." What can we do to show more effort in our spiritual lives?Understanding Passing (Tuesday 14 June, 2022)
The passing away of loved ones can fill us with a wide range of emotions that we aren't prepared for. What is most touching is listening to the young children trying to understand what was happening and expressing their love and thoughts. What can they teach us about passing?How people of faith can offer comfort — and fight for change — after mass shootings (Tuesday 14 June, 2022)
Recent tragedies cannot be ignored, and members of the Catholic church are providing aid in multiple waysCome Follow Me OT Podcast #25, “The Battle Is the Lord’s,” — 1 Samuel 8–10; 13; 15–18 (Thursday 9 June, 2022)
We have with us today a special guest, Mark Matthews. Together we discuss Israel’s desire for a king and Saul’s rise to the position, and how he loses his way. We also discuss the story of David facing Goliath and how it can represent much more than we often think about.VIDEO: Latter-day Saint Teen Shares Important Message About Beauty in TEDx Talk (Monday 6 June, 2022)
Today's teenagers are being heavily influenced by their seemingly constant participation in social media. It is an oft-discussed issue among those who are not in that generation, but we don't always get to hear about it from those being directly affected.How Does the Book of Ruth Provide a Model for Marriage? (Monday 6 June, 2022)
According to an insightful presentation by Catholic Bible scholar Gary A. Anderson included in this week’s article, the book of Ruth establishes a model for marriage in three important ways.How One Mom and Daughter Are Helping Ukraine (Sunday 5 June, 2022)
When Utah residents Alisa Broadbent and her 19-year-old daughter Sarah learned about needs in Ukraine, they knew they couldn’t just sit back and watch. Instead, they made a plan to use their experience selling jewelry—and have so far raised $2,200 to benefit Ukraine.How a Game That Took the World by Storm Can Help Engage Your Kids in Come, Follow Me (Sunday 5 June, 2022)
Matthew Barnum was searching for ways to engage his Sunday School class in his Washington ward. Familiar with Wordle and looking for alternatives to playing “hangman” on the chalkboard yet one more week, a Wordle puzzle was written on the board using a word from that week’s lesson. The youth loved it. Then he considered how he might share it even further.VIDEO: How is Hannah Like Mary? (Sunday 5 June, 2022)
For many years, Hannah was unable to have children, a source of deep pain for her. At one point, she went to the house of the Lord and promised God that is He would bless her with a son, she would dedicate her son to the Lord. There are important similarities between Hannah's prayers to the Lord and Mary's words to her cousin Elizabeth when she was expecting a son that she too would dedicate to the Lord.What We Learn as Elder Bednar Answers Questions at the National Press Club (Tuesday 31 May, 2022)
Nearly 100 journalists met Elder David A. Bednar at the National Press Club on Thursday, May 26, 2022, and his response to some of the toughest questions that reporters could ask were astute, bold and full of the Spirit as he clearly gave his witness that Jesus Christ heads The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Did Joseph Smith Attempt to Assassinate Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs? (Tuesday 31 May, 2022)
When an unknown assailant unsuccessfully attempted to kill former governor Lilburn Boggs in 1842, suspicion of many in Missouri turned toward Joseph Smith and the Latter-day Saints.Let Heaven and Nature Sing (Wednesday 25 May, 2022)
Here are twelve ways to be a better steward of the earth.“The Lord Raised up a Deliverer”–Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Judges 2-4; 6-8; 13-16 (Wednesday 25 May, 2022)
Although Joshua’s generation remained faithful to the Lord, the following generation soon fell into spiritual apostasy. When the leaders of Israel who served under Joshua died, so did their national spirit. Influenced by the beliefs and worship practices of the Canaanites—whom they were supposed to drive out of the land—the Israelites broke their covenants with the Lord and began worshipping other gods.A Haunting Near Miss and a Blessing in Disguise (Wednesday 25 May, 2022)
Sometime between 1:30 and 6:00 p.m. on that Sunday afternoon, while we were in another part of the house, someone had entered the basement, come upstairs, picked up the keys, opened the garage door, and driven off with Bette’s car. Why didn’t we hear them?Preparing for Inflation and Yearning for Zion: Thoughts From My Visit to Turkey (Wednesday 25 May, 2022)
The people of Turkey are bracing for the ravages of inflation. They are deeply worried, as they should be. The government reports that inflation is around 60% annually right now, but everyone seems to understand that it's much worse than that, maybe around 100% or higher. They know they can't trust the numbers government gives them. Many know that they need to prepare, but it's difficult.Near-death Experiences and “Fundamaterialists” (Tuesday 24 May, 2022)
Jens Amberts contends that “is beyond astronomically likely and hence empirically certain that an afterlife actually exists”. He bases this claim on “a philosophical argument that is based on four non-controversial empirical facts about NDEs”.Take a 360-Degree Look at the House of the Lord in Washington, D.C. (Tuesday 24 May, 2022)
A 360-degree virtual tour of the Washington D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is now available. See it here.How We Can Teach Our Children to have a Covenant Connection That is “Deeply Personal” (Monday 23 May, 2022)
How can our covenant connection with Deity become more deeply personal? How can it be “written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”?Are you in the Spiritual Stress Cycle? (Sunday 22 May, 2022)
I’ve sometimes felt spiritually paralyzed by extreme doubt and fear, questioning my beliefs, who I am, and what the Lord wants me to do with my life. Latter-day Saint Psychologist John C. Turpin pinpointed the most likely reason for these feelings and called it: “the Spiritual Stress Cycle”. So, what is involved in this cycle? Have you experienced it too?VIDEO: Crossing the Jordan River (Sunday 22 May, 2022)
Have you ever faced a difficult decision and not been sure what you should do? In these situations, I do what you probably do; I pray, maybe fast, study the scriptures and seek for inspiration. But what if no inspiration comes?When Motherhood Devours (Wednesday 18 May, 2022)
Our approach to motherhood may be devouring our joy along with our children’s potential. The tragedy is that so many women don’t realize there is another way.Baby Blessings: Unique, Wondrous, and Holy (Wednesday 18 May, 2022)
You may not remember your own, but it can impact every day of your life.“Be Strong and of a Good Courage”–Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Joshua 1-8; 23-24 (Wednesday 18 May, 2022)
Although Moses blessed Joshua with encouragement and strength, the Lord told him “Be strong and of a good courage” numerous times. Joshua apparently needed this repeated counsel. The apocryphal Testament of Moses may help us understand why.What is God Trying to Tell You? Turn Aside and See (Tuesday 17 May, 2022)
How often do we feel “nudged” to do something unexpected but ignore the prompting because it makes no sense to our finite mind?Narrating Violence: Stories We Tell (and Don’t Tell) (Tuesday 17 May, 2022)
While violence, such as that this weekend, is certainly senseless, we must try our best to explain it so that we can take a holistic approach to reducing violence and build durable peace.What the Church currently teaches about abortion (Tuesday 17 May, 2022)
The following are the guidelines on abortion as currently found in the General Handbook, the Church's handbook that underwent major revisions starting in 2020.How a unique student housing project at the U. could generate $1B in student aid over 99 years (Sunday 15 May, 2022)
The Clark and Christine Ivory Trust, the University of Utah and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints break ground for University Ivory House.Encouraging Disciple-Scholars in the Social Sciences (Wednesday 11 May, 2022)
Many believers have distanced from sacred conviction in order to be “neutral” researchers – without recognizing the alternative worldview they are embracing. There is a better way.Of Chocolate, Steel, and People (Wednesday 11 May, 2022)
What really happens when we lose our temper?Missing Your Superpowers? You Can Get Them Back (Wednesday 11 May, 2022)
As children, we have natural inclinations toward Curiosity, Resilience, Authenticity, Compassion, and Playfulness. But as we enter the “grown-up” world, we’re taught to dampen or sublimate those tendencies—all to our own detriment. The good news, these authors say, is that those innate “superpowers” can be reignited.Roe v. Wade Overturned: Will It Happen? (Tuesday 10 May, 2022)
In 1973, the Supreme Court ruled in Roe v. Wade, that a woman has a constitutional right to obtain an abortion without state interference within the first trimester of her pregnancy. Since then, laws protecting life before viability became unconstitutional. However, the Supreme Court will soon make a decision that could change this scheme.Remembering Heaven: New Film Dives into the Question, “Where Do I Come From?” (Tuesday 10 May, 2022)
Did we come from a heavenly home before being born into mortality? This film and subject are expertly navigated by Producer Sarah Hinze and her team while exploring this spiritual concept through interviews with scholars, doctors and everyday people alike.What Day Was Christ Crucified? Dr. Jeffrey Chadwick Argues That the Book of Mormon Provides Valuable Information (Tuesday 10 May, 2022)
An archaeologist and professor at BYU, Dr. Jeffrey R. Chadwick, published an article that provides a great example of how the Book of Mormon can help us better understand the Bible.“Undaunted”: See the Docudrama that Tells the Rest of the Story Behind the Witnesses of the Book of Mormon (Sunday 8 May, 2022)
I expect that at least some of you have seen the Interpreter Foundation’s 2021 dramatic film, “Witnesses.” I certainly hope so. (If you haven't, here's how you can see it). But we never understood the theatrical film to be the whole of the overall Witnesses film project. And we are ready to present the next portion of the story.Being Complimented by the Lord (Sunday 8 May, 2022)
The Lord’s compliments come in the form of ideas, blessings, inspirations, tender mercies, callings, and warnings, to name a few. His compliments come as holy communications engraved on heart and mind.VIDEO: The Cherished Doctrine of a Mother in Heaven (Sunday 8 May, 2022)
In the April 2022 session of the General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Dale G. Renlund spoke of the doctrine of our Mother in Heaven as a revealed and “distinctive belief” within the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. In this video, church members reflect on the impact of that doctrine in their lives.4 Things We Can Do to Apply the Doctrine of Heavenly Mother (Tuesday 3 May, 2022)
We have learned of Heavenly Mother from the Gospel Topics Essay. Now we need to be do-ers. Below are four things we can DO to apply our doctrine on Heavenly Mother.What the Ruins of Ancient Capernaum Can Teach Us About Peter (Tuesday 3 May, 2022)
How did such a man as Simon bar Jonah, from such an undistinguished background, become so important, historically — to the point that he even attracted the murderous attention of the Emperor Nero? What transformed this commonplace fisherman into an apostolic martyr?Dealing with Food Storage When It’s Time to Move (Tuesday 3 May, 2022)
The time has come, and we are moving from California to Texas. When I posted that I was giving away my food storage wow, did I get a lot of comments. Yes, there were many ready to take it off my hands but there were others absolutely shocked. Let me explain.False Narratives: “The Lies We Tell Ourselves” (Wednesday 27 April, 2022)
A “false narrative” is a version of an issue or an event that, while partly true, has been framed and shaped to elicit strong emotions, such as fear, disgust, or anger. Our society is full of them. Here are just a few.When Will You Next Need Service? (Wednesday 27 April, 2022)
You may be feeling fine, doing well, and coasting along—today. But what about tomorrow?“Holiness to the Lord”—Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Exodus 35-40, Leviticus 1; 16; 19 (Wednesday 27 April, 2022)
As miraculous and important as leaving Egypt was, it did not entirely accomplish God’s purposes for the children of Israel. It was not even future prosperity in the land of promise that was God’s eventual goal for them. He wanted a holy people.Sabbath: A Sign or a Token? (Tuesday 26 April, 2022)
"Every covenant with God is an opportunity to draw closer to him. To anyone who reflects for a moment on what they have already felt of the love of God, to have that bond made stronger and that relationship closer is an irresistible offer.”Consciousness Seemingly Beyond Life (Tuesday 26 April, 2022)
Here, I share again some excerpts from Pim van Lommel, Consciousness Beyond Life: The Science of the Near-Death Experience. Dr. van Lommel is a well-known Dutch cardiologist. They offer fascinating insight and pose compelling questions about life after this one.“My Presence Shall Go With Thee”– Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Exodus 24; 31-34 (Tuesday 26 April, 2022)
There are two kinds of people: Those who repent, and those who refuse to repent. “What about the righteous? Aren’t they a third kind?” No, to be righteous is to be repentant.A Sacrifice We Must Not Take for Granted (Monday 25 April, 2022)
Carl Jacobs wrote the following story of Bill, who rescued his entire family from disaster. It serves as a valuable reminder for us all.Facing the Adversities of Mid-Single Life without Fear (Monday 25 April, 2022)
Most mid-singles are survivors. You have figured out how to survive trials and trauma. Your bigger problem, in many cases, is figuring out how to thrive and be happy. And make no mistake, they are entirely different skill sets.His Day to Perfect Us (Monday 25 April, 2022)
The first chapter in Genesis recounts six days of creations beginning with light and ending with man. Genesis chapter two declares the completion of each created element leading God to rest. But, as we have wondered, why would an all-powerful God need to rest?First Presidency Releases Statement on Passing of Orrin Hatch, Longest Serving Republican Senator in U.S. History (Sunday 24 April, 2022)
“Senator Hatch’s tireless efforts on behalf of his country have benefitted countless lives and his strength in promoting religious freedom will be a blessing to all people of faith for generations to come,” wrote President Russell M. Nelson and his counselors, President Dallin H. Oaks and President Henry B. Eyring.VIDEO: Redeemed by the Blood of Christ (in the Old Testament and the New) (Sunday 24 April, 2022)
Using this unique scripture study tool, let's explore several verses that detail how we can be saved by the blood of Christ and see what additional insights it can give us.“Under the Banner of Heaven”: Let the Upcoming Mini-Series Inspire Conversation, Not Conflict (Wednesday 20 April, 2022)
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints should be aware that they are about to be front and center yet again in a not-insignificant pop-cultural event, a seven-part Hulu television mini-series entitled Under the Banner of Heaven that will air in the coming weeks.Is There a Reunion You’re Missing? (Wednesday 20 April, 2022)
Few things matter as much as our relationships. Are we doing all we can to celebrate them?You Want Different Results? Choose a Different Story (Wednesday 20 April, 2022)
Dad said we have a kind of motion-picture screen in our minds, and every day we project on that screen the movie that depicts the image we have of ourselves. We tend to live out that image. But here’s the catch—we can choose to project a different movie on that screen and the “new” movie becomes the “new” image we have of ourselves.When Things Don’t Go Your Way… (Sunday 17 April, 2022)
When disappointments or setbacks come, emotional responses can increase, making it hard to think clearly and know how to handle the change or problem. However, if a person has prepared to expect setbacks by adopting an accepting tone and developing a skill called “Accepting a ‘no’ Answer,” then they can feel empowered during times of uncertainty.Lessons from the Restoration: How the Early Saints Bore One Another’s Burdens (Sunday 17 April, 2022)
If we find a brother or sister in distress and do nothing, we will be subject to the judgements specified in Matthew 25. Those who ignore sufferers “shall go away into everlasting punishment”. Though most of the early members of the Church suffered their own kind of distresses, that didn't stop them from keeping their baptismal covenants and reaching out to aid one another.VIDEO: A Trick to Learn the Ten Commandments in Less than 2 Minutes! (Sunday 17 April, 2022)
How can we keep the ten commandments if we don't know what they are? Here is a simple trick to remember all ten that is great to teach to children as well.Why the General Conference talk on Mother in Heaven is Joyous News (Wednesday 13 April, 2022)
At the Women’s Session of the April General Conference in 2022 (yes, the one we just had), Elder Renlund spoke of Heavenly Mother. He made the doctrine very clear. I want to emphasize a few of the key points.Finding My Brothers and Sisters (Wednesday 13 April, 2022)
When your family is small, you can look around and realize you may have more family than you think.Read the First Presidency’s 2022 Easter Message (Wednesday 13 April, 2022)
“He is risen” was the angelic message of the first Easter. With feelings of worship and gratitude, we declare our witness that Jesus Christ is indeed risen.Lessons from the Greatest Week in History (Wednesday 6 April, 2022)
Let us look briefly at the eight days leading up to and including the original Easter. As we look at a few events of each day, let’s consider what lessons we may learn and apply to our Easter week this year.What Similarities Are There Between Egyptian and Israelite Temples? (Wednesday 6 April, 2022)
Hugh W. Nibley and other LDS scholars have written at length about Egyptian temple rites. What similarities are there between Egyptian and Israelite temples?The Ultimate Solution (Wednesday 6 April, 2022)
It’s not enough to just have the gospel “in the mix” of our lives. If we can take the gospel into our souls, almost into our very DNA, we can become something else.A Timely and Needed New Painting of Christ in Russia (Wednesday 30 March, 2022)
We know Russia and Ukraine have a special place in the Restoration. In 1843 Joseph Smith called Elder Hyde and Elder Adams on missions to Russia with the declaration they were going to the people of that vast empire to which, “is attached some of the most important things concerning the advancement and building up of the kingdom of God in the last days...”Saying Goodbye to Faith-Toxic Influencers (Tuesday 29 March, 2022)
Difficult days are ahead. So make sure to weigh carefully who you are choosing to trust to guide your heart, mind and family.That We May Know How To Come Unto Christ (Tuesday 29 March, 2022)
Two things enable the skills necessary to know how to come to Christ for salvation: 1) knowledge of our Redeemer and 2) knowledge of the very points of his doctrine. What could Nephi mean by the phrase “the very points” of Christ’s doctrine?Looking for God in Our Everyday Lives (Monday 28 March, 2022)
A central message of the Restoration is that heavenly beings are anxious to participate in our lives.“American Underdog”: A Film Review For Mid-Singles (Monday 28 March, 2022)
Cathy and I recently had the chance to see the film American Underdog, the story of Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner. Based on my own experience with divorce and the consequent difficult life circumstances, I enjoyed and related to this film very much.What’s the history in your family history? (Monday 28 March, 2022)
How often have you thought about the history your parents and grandparents have seen or been a witness to in their lifetime? What have they seen firsthand? Have they told you about it? What sort of picture did it create in your mind?No, You Aren’t Stuck in a Bad Marriage (Wednesday 23 March, 2022)
Society needs to abandon the false belief that most marriages are doomed to fail. No marriage is doomed to fail, simply certain characteristics in families and individuals can make marriage harder or easier. All marriages have the potential to be functioning and happier, but it takes work.Oh Snap!: How to Stop Thinking Judgmental Thoughts (Wednesday 23 March, 2022)
Christ showed us a better way. He loved everybody, even knowing everything about them. We try to be like that. But then we do it again.Latter-day Movie Club (Wednesday 23 March, 2022)
One extraordinary Monday night in Tri Cities, WA, one man practically single handedly packed in 4 theaters. Bringing in a whopping 478 people to see, not a Hollywood Blockbuster but The Most Reluctant Convert: The Untold Story of C.S. Lewis. How did this phenomenon happen?On the Divine Name in Exodus 6:2-3 (Tuesday 22 March, 2022)
Now, I don’t always know, in any given instance, whether the JST is correcting the original text or purporting to give the original text that has been lost or become corrupted. In any case, the clear implication of the JST reading here seems to be that the name Jehovah was already known to the patriarchs, long before the time of Moses.Mid-Singles: First Date Etiquette (Tuesday 22 March, 2022)
It can be awkward to get out there and date during the middle years when you haven't dated anyone but a spouse in decades. However, here are a few tips I think will help.Let’s Talk Recession (Tuesday 22 March, 2022)
We have focused on inflation for the past year and what we need to be doing to provide a hedge against rising prices. Now it’s time to look forward to preparations for a recession economists are now warning is coming.Emma Smith’s Table (Sunday 20 March, 2022)
Streams of well meaning, interested people called upon the Prophet day and night, both in Kirtland and Nauvoo. Emma kept a good table for Joseph’s guests. In Nauvoo, many crowded into the Smith home near dinner. Here are two of Emma's recipes that she often fed to those eager visitors.What Can We Learn About Patriarchal Blessings from a Congolese Patriarch? (Sunday 20 March, 2022)
As part of an assignment to gather oral histories for the Church History Library in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I visited Laurent Clément Shambuyi Biaya Katembwe, one of the first members of the Church in the DRC. Brother Shambuyi has served diligently in many leadership assignments and has now been called as a stake patriarch. In several video segments, he answers important questions about the doctrine of patriarchal blessings.Alex Boye to Release Video Featuring Ukrainian Children’s Choir, Aims to Boost Support For Families Under Siege (Sunday 20 March, 2022)
“Voices of Ukraine” Benefit Concert Scheduled for Monday, March 21.Things Worth Fighting For (Wednesday 16 March, 2022)
What we can learn from President Zelensky.How to write about hardship and war – and why you should (Wednesday 16 March, 2022)
In times of uncertainty and world conflict, our minds may turn to the past for insights. What have your experienced in your own lifetime that might help the next generation navigate these times? What did your parents, grandparents, and other ancestors live through that may guide your loved ones today?Temple Wedding Coming Up? (Wednesday 16 March, 2022)
20 gift ideas for newly sealed couples.First Presidency announces temples to ‘gradually return’ to normal operations (Tuesday 15 March, 2022)
“Now that more people are immunized, we are pleased to announce that temples throughout the world will gradually return to more normal operations, including the elimination of face masks and capacity restrictions.”Building Our Family Relationships on the Rock of Truth (Tuesday 8 March, 2022)
Why do we know the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ, but it is not fully transforming our relationships?The Good News for Those Pushing Back Against Gender Ideology (Tuesday 8 March, 2022)
When it comes to men/boy’s participating in women/girl’s sports, many people cannot currently be persuaded to their side. Anyone who has seen the recent UPenn women’s swim team controversy can understand why people will not be easily manipulated on this matter.The Domino Effect of War and Inflation (Tuesday 8 March, 2022)
If you have been following posts at Totallyready.com you understand the effect the war in Ukraine is having on the economy increasing inflations. Here are some of the specifics on what is expected to rise rapidly and why.Book Chat with Julie: A New Column on Meridian (Sunday 6 March, 2022)
Welcome to BookChat with Julie! I’m so excited to be with you and talk about my favorite subject—books! Today, we are highlighting some new historical romances that take place in the English countryside. All of them will have you wishing you could walk the garden paths of beautiful estates or attend a country ball.How Do You Tackle the Tests of Life? (Wednesday 2 March, 2022)
How can we best ensure success as we hit obstacles and trials?“The Lord was with Joseph”—Come, Follow Me for Sunday School, Genesis 37-41 (Wednesday 2 March, 2022)
The last half of Genesis deals with why bad things happen to good people. Joseph’s life seemed to be fraught with many hardships. In fact, it seemed that the more faithful he was, the more hardship he faced. Throughout all of these afflictions, Joseph trusts God. He trusts that one day God will make all things for his good.Brief Notes on “Terminal Lucidity” and Consciousness in Brain-Death (Wednesday 2 March, 2022)
Even when old age and disease begin to steal a person's ability to communicate, there can be unexpected moments of spiritually significant lucidity.“In His Own Time, and in His Own Way”: Jacob Ascends the Ladder of Exaltation (Wednesday 2 March, 2022)
The story of Adam and Eve’s departure from the Garden of Eden and their return to the presence of God parallels a common pattern in ancient Near Eastern writings: departure from home, mission abroad, and happy homecoming. The pattern is at least as old as the Egyptian story of Sinuhe from 1800 BCE and can be seen again in scriptural accounts of Israel’s apostasy and return as well as in the lives of individuals in scripture.Preparing for Wars and Rumors of Wars (Tuesday 1 March, 2022)
We are seeing commotion in the world in ways we have hoped and prayed would never again come to pass. We have been warned they would, however, we were also warned by every prophet in this dispensation to prepare temporally for this time. Do you feel prepared?Mid-Singles: Trust the Process (Tuesday 1 March, 2022)
Speaking of the restoration of the gospel, President Nelson said in October Conference 2021, "The Restoration is a process, not an event[.]" We suggest that personal restoration after profound loss is also a process.The Abortion on Demand until Birth Act (Sunday 27 February, 2022)
The bill codifies abortion on demand until birth for any reason. It would undo all existing state limits on abortion and prevent future federal, state and local limits. This would force every state to be a late-term abortion state. Notably, the bill carves out the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and makes clear that it cannot be used as a claim.When the Man Meets the Moment: Why Zelensky matters, in Ukraine and the world (Sunday 27 February, 2022)
It’s sometimes hard to gauge in real time whether any given moment, no matter how dramatic, is truly culturally or historically significant. Not every viral video matters, and we’re quick to create (and forget) both heroes and villains. But there is something about Zelensky’s stand that is different.First Presidency Statement on Armed Conflict (Sunday 27 February, 2022)
Church leaders plead that “peace will prevail among nations and within our own hearts”.Letter From a Grieving Mary Todd Lincoln Gives Intimate Look Into Her Faith (Tuesday 22 February, 2022)
On February 20, 1862, 11-year-old William Wallace Lincoln, son of President Abraham Lincoln and First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln, died at the White House, apparently of typhoid fever. Mary Lincoln's grief over Willie's death was so devastating that she took to her bed for three weeks. We have, in our collection, a letter she wrote describing her pain.I, Abraham (Monday 21 February, 2022)
The book of Abraham is an autobiography, reminiscent of “I, Nephi,” “I, Jacob,” “I, Helaman,” “I, Mormon,” “I, Moroni.” The book of Abraham is another testimony to the validity of the book of Genesis, verifying that Abraham is an historical person.For Mid-Singles: A Chinese Legend about Falling in Love that Speaks to Us Now (Monday 21 February, 2022)
As we were walking around Westlake on Sunday afternoon, viewing the Leifing Pagoda on a nearby mount, Mei told me the Legend of the White Snake. I am told that it is one of China's four great folk tales. And it has a lesson for us today.My Son Trembled When He Told Me He No Longer Believed (Wednesday 16 February, 2022)
After chatting softly for several minutes, I felt a sudden impulse to ask my son if he’d attended church. He was dressed in Sunday best, so the answer seemed obvious, but when I asked the question, he paused a moment, then replied, “No... I’m not sure I believe any more.”12 Things You Should Know About the Church’s Addiction Recovery Program (Wednesday 16 February, 2022)
This incredible arm of Family Services includes pornography, and can be accessed worldwide. Come and see what it’s like.What Cognitive Biases Are Hampering Your Creativity? (Wednesday 16 February, 2022)
Whether you work in a multi-national corporation, a small start-up, or a local non-profit, you need to deal with the future. Sure, you can just tiptoe along and let the future slap you in the face. Or you can use your imagination and creativity to fashion the future you really want. To do so, you’ll need to challenge your assumptions.The Prospects for Religious Liberty in President Biden’s Supreme Court Pick (Wednesday 9 February, 2022)
President Biden has promised to nominate a black woman to the Supreme court. We look at three likely nominees’ stand on religious liberty.Is this Trait Sabotaging Your Relationships? (Wednesday 9 February, 2022)
We all want to be liked, respected, and heard. But could this one trait be putting off the people you’d like to connect with the most?VIDEO: What is Our Role in the Abrahamic Covenant? (Wednesday 9 February, 2022)
You and I have an important role to play in the Abrahamic covenant as we help take the gospel to all the nations of the earth. Our responsibility is emphasized in every book of scripture. Let's explore what exactly that responsibility entails.How a Scripture Translation Supervisor for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is TikTok famous (Sunday 6 February, 2022)
What do you get when you cross a biblical scholar, a scripture translation supervisor for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an adjunct instructor in the Ancient Scripture Department at Brigham Young University, a (formerly) licensed massage therapist, and a Tik Tok account?From TV-Addicted to Time Together! (Sunday 6 February, 2022)
Marie was being spotlighted for her preschool class and needed help filling out a form to bring back to her teacher. The form asked, “What do you enjoy best about your family?” Michael was completely unprepared for his daughter’s response to this question as he was writing her answers on the form. She said, “watching TV.” Michael didn't want to write that.Time Running Out: Utah State Board of Education Asks for Comments on Transgender Guidance for Schools (Sunday 6 February, 2022)
How to accommodate for a student’s gender identity is a hot topic in schools and the Utah State Board of Education is wading into the water with a draft that concerns some parents. They gave a short window for public comment, and today is the last day.The Problem with “Decadent Mercy” (Tuesday 1 February, 2022)
Sharing with you today a very interesting article on "decadent mercy." We know that God's mercy is one of his most wonderful virtues. This article asks if we mortals have warped it into something . . . less virtuous.The Shortages are Just the Start: Here’s What You Can Do Right Now to Prepare (Tuesday 1 February, 2022)
In October of 2019, I published article about preparing for a pandemic. I was told it was fear mongering. In March of last year, I began writing about runaway inflation. This warning came long before the media was discussing this topic. The time has come to issue another warning.Why Is the Story of Noah and the Ark So Repetitive? (Tuesday 1 February, 2022)
When reading the story of Noah and the ark, many readers have noticed that several of its key details get repeated. These examples of repetition throughout this story are among the reasons some scholars have suggested that it was originally based on two different sources, which were woven together by a later editor.Looking for Revelation on a Doctrine the Prophets have said will Not Change (Monday 31 January, 2022)
It’s unwise to hope for future revelation while rejecting the insight God has brought forth today—especially when it comes to a doctrine that prophets have so emphatically taught will not change.Was Noah Drunk or in a Vision? (Monday 31 January, 2022)
In Genesis 6:9, Noah is described as “a just man and perfect in his generations,” a noble patriarch who, like Enoch, “walked with God.” However, the story of Noah finishes in a puzzling way. Immediately after Noah makes his covenant with God, his sons find him “drunken” and “uncovered within his tent.” Can these two opposing pictures of Noah be reconciled?LDS Film Festival Announces Lineup and New Vision (Monday 31 January, 2022)
“This year’s LDS Film Festival will give just a taste of what’s in store for future festivals,” said Marshall Moore, co-owner and co-director of the soon to be named Zion Film Festival. “We are confident longtime and first-time attendees will be surprised and delighted with this year’s programming and that it will set the stage for the Zion Film Festival to continue to grow in size and influence for many years to come.”For Mid-Singles: The Power of Relationship Rituals (Tuesday 25 January, 2022)
Rituals can have a tremendous bonding quality for a relationship. Sometimes they evolve into existence organically and sometimes we intentionally create them. Either way, they are powerful and we should approach them with deliberate intention.Is Perfectionism Really about “Be Ye Therefore Perfect”? (Tuesday 25 January, 2022)
It seems illogical that my love for Jesus Christ and my desire to serve Him would cause ulcers, anorexia, or depression as Elder Holland mentioned in his 2017 conference talk, “Be Ye Therefore Perfect—Eventually.” Loving the Savior and trying to be like Him should bring joy, trust, and peace that surpasses understanding. If it causes health problems, the perfectionistic mindset is misaligned.LDS Film Festival Announces Lineup and Rebrand (Tuesday 25 January, 2022)
Award-winning film WATERMAN, narrated by Jason Momoa, is festival’s featured opener.Elder Holland Offers BYU Students Three Lessons to Help Them Become Better Saints (Tuesday 18 January, 2022)
“Practice now and be strong now for those times of affliction and refinement that surely will come,” the Apostle says.What We Learned the Past Two Years: How it Affects Preparing in 2022 (Tuesday 18 January, 2022)
You may have thought you knew all there was to know about preparing or that pandemics could never happen again, but we learned we did not know or understand all we thought we did.Mid-Singles: Why We Must be Willing to be Vulnerable (Tuesday 18 January, 2022)
For whatever reason, our godlike nature demands that love come with the risk of pain and loss. There is something heroic in us all that understands that love cannot be real unless it has a price, and we are risking pain for it.The Old Testament, Deep Learning, and Lasting Peace (Tuesday 18 January, 2022)
As we seek to understand the Old Testament this year, there is no shortage of angst. Deep learning, like consecrated discipleship, sounds like an all-or-nothing thing. Apparently, dabbling in doctrine or prancing through principles won’t cut it. This isn’t to say the Lord does not take us where we are, but to go further up and further in, we need everything on the table.Four Years of Invitations from the Prophet (Thursday 13 January, 2022)
Since becoming the 17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on January 14, 2018, President Russell M. Nelson has used general conference, social media and other means to extend several invitations to Latter-day Saints worldwide — invitations to act in faith.The Key Commandment that Adam and Eve Disobeyed (Monday 10 January, 2022)
There is much detail written and spoken about the Fall of Adam and Eve that is essential for our understanding. But there remain some things that seem counterintuitive without this essential puzzle piece. Rather than rehearse all the good that has been written, this article will focus on this essential element.Turning a Wall into a Window (Monday 10 January, 2022)
I didn't think I was skilled enough to paint on paper, so why would painting directly on the wall be any better?Why Did the Nauvoo City Council Order the Destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor Press? (Monday 10 January, 2022)
Why did the city council take this action? The decision was not made quickly or lightly. Their reasoning is clearly outlined in the minutes of the city council meetings.4 Simple Steps For Helping Youth Find Purpose In Life (Sunday 9 January, 2022)
Families preserve generational learning. This vital learning arms young people with lessons from the past as they combat trials along their life journeys. In an age when the elderly are being dismissed as antiquated, it is even more important that we realize how much impact a seasoned teacher can have on the heart of child.What Chinese Characters Can Teach Us About the Fall of Adam and Eve—Come, Follow Me for Sunday School (Wednesday 5 January, 2022)
On my mission in Hong Kong, when we rode the Star Ferry between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, there were signs on the deck prohibiting spitting on the ferry. At that time, I only knew a few characters, but I did know the simple character for tree, and I remember wondering then what two tree characters had to do with something being prohibited.Joseph Smith: Man of Many Prophecies (Wednesday 5 January, 2022)
This short compilation reminds us of the many messages God gave us through the First Prophet of this dispensation.Essential Doctrine: Heavenly Mother and Heavenly Father show how unity is divine… a good goal for the new year (Wednesday 5 January, 2022)
“No matter to what heights he has attained or may attain, he does not stand alone; for see by side with him, in all her glory, a glory like unto his own, stands a companion, the Mother…”The Naming of Animals, Angels, Adam, and Eve (Monday 3 January, 2022)
Though the story of the naming of the animals is couched in the Bible as a proof of Adam’s dominion and as a motivating prelude to the creation of Eve, there are hints in competing versions of the event that the account may not be as straightforward as it seems.VIDEO: Christ’s Creation Teachings on Marriage and Divorce (Monday 3 January, 2022)
Jesus spoke often and quite clearly on the nature of our eternal bonds of marriage and on divorce. So, how does what he taught compare with Church practice today? What can we learn from Jesus Christ about having a more successful and joyful marriage?Totalitarianism: Can It Happen in America? (Monday 3 January, 2022)
What does totalitarianism look like? In the 20th century, it took the form of secret police violently silencing anyone who spoke out against the government. Now, it has a very difference face--one we should be wary of just the same.What will you be Ringing Out and Ringing in this New Year’s Eve? (Wednesday 29 December, 2021)
Do you know the other verses of this popular hymn?Moses in the Spirit World (Wednesday 29 December, 2021)
In this Essay, we will describe the first part of the heavenly ascent of Moses 1 which, like the Apocalypse of Abraham 9:8, opens on “an exceedingly high mountain.Excessive Texting of the Emoji Laden (Tuesday 28 December, 2021)
Ever notice two people sitting at a table texting and find out later they were texting … each other? What’s the solution?VIDEO: Lessons from Moses on Resisting Temptation (Tuesday 28 December, 2021)
This week's Come, Follow Me reading comes from the opening chapters of The Pearl of Great Price. Moses has a stunning experience with the divine that is quickly following by something else. Often our spiritual experiences are following by resistance or temptation. How can we keep the confidence and the faith?The Long Game: Success with Purpose and a Plan (Tuesday 28 December, 2021)
“Remember to dream big, think long-term, underachieve on a daily basis, and take baby steps. That is the key to long-term success.” Those 24 words by businessman and author Robert Kiyosaki provide a thumbnail tutorial on navigating your current job, your overall career, and your life in general.What Does it Matter that the Lord was Wrapped in Swaddling Clothes? (Thursday 23 December, 2021)
When those shepherds, “abiding in the field keeping watch over their flock by night” received the grand announcement from the angel of the Lord, “for unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord,” they were also told that there would be a sign that they might recognize the baby when they found Him.Do You Feel Anxious or Confused? (Wednesday 22 December, 2021)
Sometimes life’s choices send us into a tailspin. Here’s how to find truth and direction.‘Tis the Season to Spread Enmity? (Wednesday 22 December, 2021)
Our response to the “big news” of Jeff Green’s departure from The Church of Jesus Christ and the associated fawning media coverage a few days before Christmas.The Everlasting Noel (Wednesday 22 December, 2021)
Emanating from that singular manger scene of Bethlehem is a message and witness and love that touches all times, all places, and all peoples.VIDEO: Christmas Through the Eyes of Mary (Tuesday 21 December, 2021)
Many years ago, somebody about the age of 14 had an experience with a divine being and it changed the course of the world. Prophets saw this person in vision centuries in advance. God chose this person for a special mission. What person am I describing?A Christmas Story: A Simple Ornament (Tuesday 21 December, 2021)
I would invite you to get a cup of hot cocoa, find a comfortable chair and enjoy this story.The Other Christmas Miracle (Monday 20 December, 2021)
There has been much talk recently about the star of Bethlehem and what it might have been. But there was another amazing and wondrous celestial event that took place on that fateful night, in an even more distant land a world away that is also worth exploring.The Freedom of Thinking for Oneself (Monday 20 December, 2021)
"When polled, nearly two out of three Americans (62%) say they are afraid to express an unpopular opinion. That doesn’t sound like a free people in a free country. We are, each day, force-fed falsehoods we are all expected to take seriously, on pain of forfeiting esteem and professional opportunity."Light the World with Love: December 21–The Christmas Letter (Monday 20 December, 2021)
Searching through my parent’s annual Christmas letters, I came across several written by my mother. Once a newlywed with unspoken years ahead, those years became filled with nine children, many grand and great-grandchildren, until the last letter I found where she was a widow of several years in the throes of dementia with much of her posterity scattered around the country.The Christmas Tree and the Tree of Life (Wednesday 15 December, 2021)
Meridian contributor V. Garth Norman passed away just recently. We are republishing this article of his as a tribute to his passion for his work and his great contributions.The Magic of the Double Gift (Wednesday 15 December, 2021)
This Christmas, give something amazing that will last for eternity.A Nation Made Great By its Immigrants (Wednesday 15 December, 2021)
At least five of my friends were born in foreign countries or are children of first-generation Americans. These friends are all helping me fulfill some promises made to me in my patriarchal blessing about my mission here on earth. Allow me to tell you a little about them and how they are such a blessing in my life.Don’t Miss the Special Christmas Message from President Nelson this Thursday (Tuesday 14 December, 2021)
Viewers can tune in at 8:00 a.m. MST on December 16 on the Facebook live event page or the Church’s YouTube channel.Survey shows public support for religious freedom is strong – even growing (Monday 13 December, 2021)
The index reports on a national survey of a representative sample of U.S. adults conducted annually. The 2021 Index – the third to be issued – represents a high point in positive views of religious freedom. The sample in the study responds to 21 questions about “a wide spectrum of religious liberty protections under the First Amendment.”Speaking Up as Women, When We Are Outnumbered by Men (Monday 13 December, 2021)
In this episode we discuss the BYU Study When Women Don’t Speak. This study outlines some of the difficulties women face when they are outnumbered by men in a group discussion. Women are seen as less authoritative, are often interrupted, and talked over. As a society we have been “slowly socialized over years to discount” female expertise and perspectives. Here's what we can do about it.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “The Articles of Faith” (Thursday 9 December, 2021)
When we study the Articles of Faith, we should ask ourselves what difference they make in our lives. We should also ask what blessings might be associated with each Article.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “The Family Is Central to the Creator’s Plan”, The Family: A Proclamation to the World (Wednesday 8 December, 2021)
When I heard President Gordon B. Hinckley read the Proclamation on the Family in 1995, I thought that it was stating the obvious. I wondered why he would issue a “proclamation to the world” that affirmed what everyone already believed. Since that time, I have learned much from studying the history behind the issuing of this proclamation.The Grinch Who Stole Christmas and You Let Him (Wednesday 8 December, 2021)
Thieves love the holiday season. They can do all their "shopping" in one place as we place gifts under the tree, leave them on counters to wrap and are overwhelmed and often ignore common sense safety practices. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from holiday theft.Light the World 2021: How Your Christmas Card Can “Light the Family Tree” (Wednesday 8 December, 2021)
For many years, my parents would send out an annual Christmas letter, sometimes with pictures or a calendar, capturing the focus of each family member’s life throughout the year. Through this type of correspondence, my grandparents, and previous generations of extended family who practiced this same yearly tradition, left their posterity a wealth of information.A Supreme Day for Pro-Lifers in America (Wednesday 1 December, 2021)
On Wednesday morning the Supreme Court heard arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. This case is monumental because it deals with a Mississippi law which bans abortion after 15 weeks, and, essentially asks the Court to overrule the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that says states can regulate, but not ban abortion up until the point of viability at about 24 weeks. The 1992 ruling in Planned Parenthood v. Casey reaffirmed Roe.Light the World 2021: Let Your Love Shine (Wednesday 1 December, 2021)
In honor of Wednesday's Light the World service suggestion to share three things we love about someone with them, here is my message to the Savior and the photograph that inspired it.Don’t Forget This Saturday’s “Skip the Ship” Open House (Tuesday 30 November, 2021)
For those of you anxious to save on the shipping costs of all our one-of-kind products in The Meridian Shop—This Saturday, December 4, from 9:00 AM – 3:00PM we will have an open house in Alpine, Utah! All of our products will be discounted in addition to saving on shipping, come see us!Why Did Emma Smith Remain in Nauvoo after the Death of Joseph Smith? (Tuesday 30 November, 2021)
After Joseph Smith’s death in 1844, Emma remained in Nauvoo for the rest of her life rather than traveling on with the Saints, and for several years she did not associate herself with any of the groups linked to the Restoration. Why did Emma stay in Nauvoo after Joseph’s death?The Price of Exaltation (Tuesday 30 November, 2021)
Money is such a trouble-maker. What follows is a message from the New Testament about the Savior’s teachings regarding wealth.Seeking Out Holy Places in Ohio (Tuesday 30 November, 2021)
I have been carefully exploring and photographing all the Ohio Church History sites for more than 40 years. What drives me to photograph these sites over and over and over again? Am I seeing something different each time? Will I capture something I have never captured before? Perhaps. Is it worth all this effort? Absolutely!VIDEO: The Role of Pondering in Our Spiritual Study (Monday 29 November, 2021)
One important lesson from this week's Doctrine and Covenants sections (137-138) is the importance of pondering in the process of our spiritual study. Pondering may feel like doing nothing, but it is essential to growing in understanding.How Remembering Someone Who Passed Away Helps with Grief (Sunday 28 November, 2021)
I don’t think I quite understood how remembering someone who passed away helps with grief until last December when the freight train of grief steamrolled into my life when my dad passed away rather unexpectedly. My hope is that as I share these grief healers, it may be something that will be helpful in your process of remembering a loved one who passed away.Giving Thanks and Giving Thought (Wednesday 24 November, 2021)
Most if not all religions are saturated with exhortations to remember, and with practices designed to help us do just that.The Power of Gratitude (Tuesday 23 November, 2021)
In Doctrine and Covenants 78:19, we read a special promise from the Lord that those “who receiveth ALL things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto [them], even an hundred fold, yea, more.” I have frequently pondered on this scripture and questioned many times what it means to be made glorious.Fostering Peaceful Holiday Gatherings in a Time of Fear and Anger (Tuesday 23 November, 2021)
How can we foster kindness and softness in our own extended families and homes these holidays? Here are some thoughts.A Predictable Process for Joy (Monday 22 November, 2021)
We all want joy. And we know the formula for getting it. Yet we often muddle along in misery instead of climbing toward joy.How Will God Come to the Rescue of This Generation? (Monday 22 November, 2021)
What if we once again applied chiasmus thinking to Doctrine and Covenants 133 as I have done before with DC 29, 88, and 93? The chapter division provides a well-thought-out subject overview that provides the chiasm pairs and reveals the central and beginning messages of the Lord.VIDEO: Why is it Important to Have a Testimony Specifically of Joseph Smith? (Monday 22 November, 2021)
"Through our faith in the personal witness of the Prophet Joseph and the reality of the First Vision, through study and prayer, deep and sincere, we will be blessed with a firm faith in the Savior of the world."I Forgot My Life was so Good (Thursday 18 November, 2021)
I didn’t realize until I was carefully watching my life for something to record how the Lord’s grace to us is a daily gift. Recording this year in this simple way has given me eyes to see and an expanded and joyful heart.The Deathbed Testimony of Martin Harris (Thursday 18 November, 2021)
Among the items in our collection of the early history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are several which deal directly with the testimony of Martin Harris, one of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon. Among those are the Joseph Hunter Journal and the statement of William Harrison Homer regarding Harris' Testimony during his final days.Your Hardest Family Question: My husband has an insatiable need for intimacy (Thursday 18 November, 2021)
My husband feels like his needs are never met. His biggest need is for me to want sex and he doesn't understand that I don't need sex as often as he seems to. He also wants me to do things in our sexual relationship that I don’t feel are right and are very upsetting to me.Doctrine and Covenants 130:2 and the Eternal Table (Thursday 11 November, 2021)
The author’s father was Elder Bruce R. McConkie and her mother was Amelia Smith McConkie, daughter of President Joseph Fielding Smith and granddaughter of President Joseph F. Smith. The table she gathered around with her family was indeed remarkable.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I protect our children from the unhealthy influence of their older sister? (Thursday 11 November, 2021)
We are terrified of the effect she will have on our other children. We dread the example she will set. We can’t stand the thought of our daughter smoking weed and drinking in our house. We feel the heartbreak all over again when thinking of explaining all of this to our other children. How will we prepare them?How does Polygamy Play Into God’s Law of Marriage? (Part 2) (Thursday 11 November, 2021)
A whole new vision begins to appear when we understand from God’s own reasoning that monogamy is the rule, polygamy is the exception, and he is not indifferent between the two because the second is an Abrahamic sacrifice in his eyes and the first is not.Who Controls My Child’s Education: The Government or Me? (Tuesday 9 November, 2021)
With the American Families Plan being pushed in Washington DC, with part of its funding earmarked to implement programs to take care of our children at younger and younger ages, all parents should ask themselves if their children will obtain a better education and valuable skills at home with family or under paid supervision by the government.The Greatest Legacy (Tuesday 9 November, 2021)
“The greatest legacy we can leave to our posterity is a life full of example that will stand as a beacon of goodness for generations to come.” The truth in these simple words have been illuminated by the love passed on to us through the lives of our ancestors. How grateful we are for our heritage.Food Storage: But Where Do I Put All Of It? (Tuesday 9 November, 2021)
Empty and understocked shelves in the grocery store are not going to end anytime soon. With that in mind it is time to think about where we are going to store all the food and non-food supplies we are accumulating. There are creative alternatives even for those living in small spaces.Laban: Problems of Blood and Justice (Tuesday 9 November, 2021)
How many times have you been asked or perhaps just wondered about Nephi’s killing of Laban? One investigator, after reading this section remarked, “It sounds like Nephi was just rationalizing in order to justify murder!” By western standards, it does sound like that, but under the Mosaic law, things look very different.VIDEO: Do you Understand this Central Point in the Temple Sealing? (Monday 8 November, 2021)
As we study this week's Come, Follow Me sections, we reflect on the covenants we make to each other as couples in the temple. But do you fully understand the symbolism of that covenant and the way it is preformed?Drawing Our Ancestors into Our Lives (Monday 8 November, 2021)
My dear Mom died Easter Sunday, 2018. I wanted to create a tribute to my energetic, fun, compassionate Mother to be a part of my home office. I took some of the things I inherited from Mom and started to design a shadowbox. I hadn’t gotten very far before I realized how much more I wanted to represent about her life. So, a plan for a simple shadowbox became something more ambitious.Visualizing Heavenly Mother (Thursday 4 November, 2021)
The “Certain Women” exhibit in Salt Lake reveals how Latter-day Saint women perceive the divine, including the unique doctrine of Heavenly Mother.Hidden Things: The Steamboat Captain that Fulfilled Joseph Smith’s “Last Prophecy” (Tuesday 2 November, 2021)
In March of 1843, Elders Parley P. Pratt and Levi Richards, having just landed in New Orleans with about two hundred British converts, sought to charter a boat to take them up the river to Nauvoo. Contact was made with Captain Jones. Though many captains of that era were reluctant to help the Mormons, he agreed to take them.Elder and Sister Bednar Reflect on Middle East Ministry (Tuesday 2 November, 2021)
Following a theme that Elder Bednar and Elder Gong recently discussed at a two-day conference at Brigham Young University titled “The Islamic World Today: Issues and Perspectives,” both Elder and Sister Bednar shared how much Latter-day Saints have in common with Muslims.Home Storage Recipes: Hawaiian Haystacks (Tuesday 2 November, 2021)
Just about every Latter-day Saint has some food storage, so why not stimulate your thinking with some wonderful and proven recipes from Thrive Life’s famous Chef Todd Leonard? You can use your own home storage ingredients in the same quantities OR we have provided easy links to the products from Thrive.We Got Here by Cowardice; Courage is What Gets Us Out (Wednesday 27 October, 2021)
You are by now quite familiar with the features of the great unraveling. The politicization of everything. The re-racialization of everyone. The demonization of those with a different perspective. The forced conformity. The ideological capture of our schools. How did this happen? And what is to be done?More Than a Testimony: Spotting Jesus in Your Life (Monday 25 October, 2021)
We talk about testimony as if it were the ultimate destination in our spiritual journeys. A whole-souled assurance about God’s truths is a great blessing. But it is only a beginning.VIDEO: How Do I Balance Trusting God with Putting in My Own Effort? (Monday 25 October, 2021)
As we attempt to know how much to trust God and how much to depend on ourselves, this verse from the Doctrine and Covenants can help to guide us.What COVID-19 revealed about America’s approach to religious freedom (Wednesday 20 October, 2021)
Cases involving COVID-19 gathering restrictions and religious groups showed why rulings on religious freedom are often inconsistent.Institutional Bullying and the Question of Religious Exemption from Vaccine Mandates (Tuesday 19 October, 2021)
Religious exemption requests are based on the idea enshrined in the Constitution that American citizens should have freedom to practice their religion. Of course, where the boundaries of those freedoms are is a complex and thorny issue.Why Did Joseph Write His Famous Letter from Liberty Jail? (Tuesday 19 October, 2021)
The letter Joseph Smith wrote in Liberty Jail between March 20 and 22, 1839, is perhaps his most famous letter: substantial excerpts from it have been canonized as Doctrine and Covenants 121, 122, and 123. But few have ever read the letter in its entirety, and thus many do not realize that it also contains further words of advice and inspiration that are well worth study.Let Me Fall Now Into the Hands of the Lord (Tuesday 19 October, 2021)
Faced with cancer, I contemplated the choice of David between being afflicted by a famine, by his enemies, or by the Lord. How does one choose with affliction to live with?Two studies of Latter-day Saints, LGBTQ Youth, and Suicide (Sunday 17 October, 2021)
There are relatively few genuinely new arguments against the Restoration and against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But some do exist that have been formulated in recent years.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “O God, Where Art Thou?”, Doctrine and Covenants 121-123 (Sunday 17 October, 2021)
This is somebody crying in the depths of his heart who has had it. He is suffering, and has been patient in suffering. He sees the righteous suffer, and the wicked getting away with it. And, of course, that’s the big question, the same question asked by Job—“Why do righteous people suffer?”In Defense of Citizenship (Sunday 17 October, 2021)
It is hard to dispute the claim that the United States is a political and social order in the midst of an immense crisis. The old political consensus in defense of free speech, especially political speech, has been shattered. The woke aim to “cancel” their opponents and to erase them from the community of shared memory, a technique seemingly borrowed from the pages of Orwell’s 1984.Three Motivations to Live By (Wednesday 13 October, 2021)
Here are three new things your CTR Ring can represent.October is Family History Month: Engaging in The Greatest Work on Earth (Wednesday 13 October, 2021)
"The study of family history gives individuals a sense of their heritage and a sense of responsibility in carrying out a legacy that their ancestors began . . .”Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “His Sacrifice Shall Be More Sacred unto Me Than His Increase” – Sections 115-120 (Wednesday 13 October, 2021)
In the early morning hours of April 26, 1839, seven Apostles and other Saints met quietly in the darkness of the prairie on an abandoned spot in western Missouri called Far West. Danger surrounded them every moment. Why had they put themselves in such peril?20 Ways to Have a Party with a Purpose (Wednesday 6 October, 2021)
We’ve been largely isolated for a while, now that we are beginning to gather again, here are 20 ways to give back to the community with the parties you throw.VIDEO: The Important Lesson of Oliver Granger (Wednesday 6 October, 2021)
How much do you know about Oliver Granger? Probably not a lot and if that's the case, you're completely normal. But what the Lord said about him in the Doctrine and Covenants provides an important lesson that we would all do well to remember.Careful What You Wish For!: Getting a promotion could stretch you (Wednesday 6 October, 2021)
With my new promotion, I was so thrilled, not only about more responsibility but also about the raise. Wow! Simply stated, I loved it. But then, for the first time in my life, I came to understand the saying “Be careful what you wish for.”Elusive Reasoning Among Expansive Latter-day Saints (Tuesday 5 October, 2021)
In Faith Matters’ podcast, “Elusive Unity at BYU,” Church teachings about sexuality and the family are characterized as in profound conflict with the “real experiences” of Latter-day Saints identifying as LGBT+. In what ways might unexamined progressive assumptions about identity be contributing to this same divide?Are You Falling for the Media Portrayal of Love? (Tuesday 5 October, 2021)
“They're both hot, but Edward is so sweet and protective about Bella.” My friend's wistful voice paints a picture of a caring, gentle, soft-spoken, respectful teenage boy, something uncommon in a room full of seventh graders. It wasn't until years later that I actually saw the film and realized the relationship she was describing wasn't at all what I saw on the screen.Why Is the “Pentecostal” Season in Kirtland Believable? (Tuesday 5 October, 2021)
The months and weeks surrounding the completion and dedication of the Kirtland Temple witnessed a Pentecostal-like outpouring of heavenly manifestations. According to Milton V. Backman Jr., “During a fifteen-week period, extending from January 21 to May 1, 1836, probably more Latter-day Saints beheld visions and witnessed other unusual spiritual manifestations than during any other era in the history of the Church.”VIDEO: Understanding the Temple Recommend Questions (Wednesday 29 September, 2021)
Sometimes when we think of temple worthiness, we think first of keeping the law or chastity or the Word of Wisdom. In reality, the first three temple recommend questions all center on the same thing and it isn't either of those laws.Adults Desires Above Children’s Needs? (Tuesday 28 September, 2021)
It was never my intention to jump headlong into the public debate around marriage, family, and parenthood. What finally forced me to speak up? It was when I realized that on the topic of every family, culture, media, and public policy was obsessively focused on what adults want and rarely, if ever, acknowledged what children need, and indeed, have a right to.Creating a Culture of Self-Reliance: What’s Next (Tuesday 28 September, 2021)
National Emergency Preparedness month is coming to an end but our efforts to build a self-reliant family are just beginning. You should now have a firm foundation underway. What’s next? Following a weather-related disaster and many others such as a pandemic or job loss, there is much you can discuss and plan for now.Why Was Doctrine and Covenants Section 88 Quoted in Section 109? (Tuesday 28 September, 2021)
Doctrine and Covenants 88, sometimes called “The Olive Leaf,” is one of Joseph Smith’s most eloquent and expansive revelations. It opens with eternal vistas on multiple topics: Jesus Christ, the light of the universe, and degrees of glory, to name a few. Following that soul-stretching introduction, the Lord asks His people to remember God’s ultimate promises.Pre-Conference Special: Have You Heard this Myth about George Albert Smith? (Tuesday 28 September, 2021)
In one month in 1945, the message (for what was called “ward teaching” at the time) emphasized the importance of following the prophet. It included the line: “When our leaders speak, the thinking has been done.” George Albert Smith was the prophet at the time and he disavowed this message when asked about it.A Religious Freedom Preview of the Upcoming SCOTUS Term (Monday 27 September, 2021)
The U.S. Supreme Court has become the primary – nearly exclusive – institution dealing with religious freedom issues in the United States.The court has already accepted two religious freedom cases in the coming term. It is also considering acceptance of two other cases. Here's what you need to know.10 Simple Ways to Serve Your Loved Ones With Cancer (Monday 27 September, 2021)
Do you have friends or loved ones battling cancer? Today’s article includes 10 sweet, real ways to make a difference for them, their families and their caregivers.Brief Ruminations on a BYU Education (Monday 27 September, 2021)
A friend of mine, doing his postgraduate study at Oxford University, said he felt that his BYU undergraduate education in economics, while in most respects a very good one that followed the standard American economics curriculum, had left him woefully underprepared to face some of the difficult questions that faced him afterwards. I think that the problem extends far beyond the Department of Economics.Can Religious Freedom Heal the LGBT+ and Faith Divide? (Sunday 26 September, 2021)
Did you know countries in the world best for religious freedom are also best for gay rights? A lesbian minister shares why she believes “covenantal pluralism” might hold a big clue for healing the LGBT+ / faith divide.Emotional Resilience Training Offered by Church (Sunday 26 September, 2021)
A new manual and videos are available for a course in emotional resilience offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.It’s Long Past Time for a Reckoning with Roe (Tuesday 21 September, 2021)
The voice of the people should aid in determining each state’s laws regarding abortion, not an indefensible interpretation of the Constitution by unelected judges.Creating a Culture of Self-Reliance: Week Four (Tuesday 21 September, 2021)
Strong families don’t happen by accident. They are created intentionally. We are not raising children, we are raising adults; adults who will become leaders in their home, community and the church. Will they be prepared to become the best they can be? Creating a culture of self-reliance in our homes will be an important step to reaching that goal.VIDEO: Rebuilding My Faith When I Felt Lost (Tuesday 21 September, 2021)
In the latest episode in the His Grace series, a young man shares the struggle he had when embarking on a full-time mission made him realize that he didn't have a testimony to rely on as he taught others the gospel.A Missionary Question, Reversed (Wednesday 15 September, 2021)
Here’s another way to consider what Jesus Christ has done for us.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “To Have the Heavens Opened”, Doctrine and Covenants 106-108 (Wednesday 15 September, 2021)
As we have studied the Restoration, it has become apparent that, rather than explaining a doctrine fully in one revelation, the Lord reveals things “line upon line” when circumstances require it. Although the Lord had previously given instruction about the priesthood, in 1835 he gave additional instructions about specific priesthood offices needed to guide his children.Your Health? You Need to Learn What We Did (Tuesday 31 August, 2021)
We didn’t want to give the founder of Cardio Miracle any of our time, but we have now taken his product for several years, and count that meeting as changing our health lives forever. Now we have a meeting that can change yours.Voters of Color Survey: Attitudes toward Gender Identity Policies (Tuesday 31 August, 2021)
Much of the energy and narrative promoting transgender normalization within our culture and politics is rooted in Civil Rights logic and language. Yet, this survey shows that among Voters of Color (core beneficiaries of the Civil Rights effort), there is significant opposition to the foundational philosophies of the gender identity movement.Sustaining the Brethren: A Modern Example of Thoughtful Discipleship (Tuesday 31 August, 2021)
Naturally the Saints want to do more than accept, with a lazy and complacent spirit, whatever direction comes from those who hold the keys of the priesthood. The scriptures teach that the Lord, too, wants more than that. We have an obligation to study and pray, so that we may come to know that we are being led correctly.A Latter-day Saint behind enemy lines: The untold story of the man who spied on East Germany (Monday 30 August, 2021)
Bob didn’t see any way out. He didn’t know if he’d ever leave the East German prison. Would he see his parents again? His sister? His army friends? Would he ever see anything other than the insides of his dim, dank cell or the interrogation room? What if this was his life now until the day he died? So, Bob began to look for the good in everything.Sustaining the Brethren: The Lord Gives More Instructions than Explanations (Monday 30 August, 2021)
A curious fact about revelation is that the Lord rarely reveals the reasons behind it.The Parable of the King and the Maiden (Monday 30 August, 2021)
A parable from the Philosophical Fragments of Søren Kierkegaard sheds light on the relationship of Heavenly Father to his children.What it Means to Sustain the Brethren (Sunday 29 August, 2021)
Believing Latter-day Saints hold different views about what it means to sustain the presiding Brethren of the Church. In this article, I outline some considerations that might be kept in mind as members of the Church evaluate their views on this vital topic and the Lord’s admonition to sustain the Brethren by their faith, prayers, and actions.Understanding the Endowment Before Your First Trip to the Temple (Sunday 29 August, 2021)
When I received my temple endowment, I wasn’t as prepared as I should have been and remember feeling like I didn’t know what was happening—and as a result feeling a little uncomfortable. There is power in preparation, here are some ways to be better prepared to make these sacred covenants and understand what they are about before you make them.Elder Jack N. Gerard Talks with the Rev. Amos C. Brown about Overcoming Prejudice (Sunday 29 August, 2021)
“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints went through struggle. Your congregation did not rest in the ruins of oppression. It did not just survive. It struggled to soar above the persecution that was inflicted by persons who didn’t like you because you were different," said Rev. Brown.Why Was Hyrum Faithful to His Witness of the Book of Mormon? (Tuesday 24 August, 2021)
Of all Joseph Smith’s family and friends, perhaps none were closer to him or more loyal than his older brother Hyrum Smith. Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, and many others remembered that when they first met Joseph, Hyrum was there too. It is therefore no surprise that Hyrum was among those chosen to be witnesses of the Book of Mormon.“Kite Runner” Author Says Taliban Takeover in Afghanistan a Nightmare (Monday 23 August, 2021)
The thoughts here are from author Khaled Hosseini, who expressed his gut-wrenching dismay of the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan on Facebook. These were written on Aug. 14, before Kabul fell, but represent his heartbreak at the crisis.The Middle Ground is Disappearing (Monday 23 August, 2021)
As the doctrine of the “self-centered” West becomes increasingly distinct from the doctrines of the Restored Gospel, the faithful can no longer stay in a middle ground.What’s the Point of a Prophet Who Already Agrees With You? (Thursday 19 August, 2021)
A new letter from the First Presidency has opened up many conversations about the reasons and universality of following prophetic counsel. But prophetic counsel is meaningful because it can stretch us in new and unexpected ways.Your Hardest Family Question: My husband is using his PTSD as an excuse for bad behavior (Thursday 19 August, 2021)
My husband was diagnosed with PTSD years ago and now it’s his excuse for showing no compassion nor love. Everything is a trigger to his PTSD.... literally everything. I believe we are in a good space then, BOOM, the shoe drops and there is a tsunami of anger, and he is threatening divorce.See the Webinar for the Rivers of Europe Christmas Markets Cruise (Thursday 19 August, 2021)
Delight your senses with the season’s delicate ornaments, handmade toys, sweet cookies, and oh the gingerbread! This is Christmas at its most traditional, the perfect complement to exploring historic and architectural treasures from the soaring Cologne cathedral, the windmills at Kinderdijk, and timber houses in Germany and France. Limited space available, book your spot now.The Untold Story of Gender Detransitioners (Tuesday 17 August, 2021)
“A gender specialist told me to give it more time. Eight years seemed like an awfully long time to me. Nothing made sense. Why hadn’t the recommended hormones and surgery worked? Why was I still distressed about my gender identity? Why wasn’t I happy being Laura? Why did I have strong desires to be Walt again?”Shake Rattle and Roll: Are You Ready? (Tuesday 17 August, 2021)
Earthquake frequency and severity is increasing and will continue to increase if history is an indication of what to expect. Whether you live in one of the places that is expecting "the big one" or somewhere that no one thinks it will ever happen, it is important to be prepared.Come, Follow Me for Kids: The Word of Wisdom, Doctrine and Covenants 89 (Tuesday 17 August, 2021)
Learn more about the guidance given in the Word of Wisdom to keep our bodies healthy with this fun matching game. This lesson also includes a recipe for a refreshment to share as a family, corresponding with what you've learned.Have You Ever Felt Far From God? (Wednesday 4 August, 2021)
Here are ten ways to deal with a power outage of another kind.Learning to Love Obedience (Wednesday 4 August, 2021)
Most of us associate obedience with unwelcome limits to our behavior and constraints to our choices. Some may think obedience is another word for subservience. It restricts what we can do. But are these beliefs about obedience really true?What Do You Know About Melchizedek And Would You Like to Know More? (Wednesday 4 August, 2021)
“Looming over the various priestly figures of the patriarchal period is that of Melchizedek. Here is a singularly mysterious figure who all but vanishes from the canon as soon as he appears. . . .. Likewise, of all of the figures in Genesis, Melchizidek is the only one in the book called a priest of ‘El ‘Elyon, “God Most High.” It does raise the question about what else we might discover about this mysterious, but important individual.A Sacrament Meeting Worth Shouting About (Sunday 1 August, 2021)
Sunday turned out to be one of the most exciting sacrament meetings I can recall. A 16-year-old who came to America as a refugee from the chaos in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, stood at the pulpit to give her first talk and touched the entire congregation. She gave the talk in Swahili, with my wife at her side giving the English, allowing our many Swahili speakers to finally hear a talk in a language they can understand.Opinion: Finding truth in a world of fiction (Sunday 1 August, 2021)
If there is a definite, right way to understand the world, how can so many people be completely wrong, and why do our debates seem to go nowhere?5 Reasons to Ditch Diet Soda For Good (Sunday 1 August, 2021)
Summertime, and the livin’ is easy! But not for your body or your health if you drink a lot of diet soda. Here are 5 shocking health facts to help you kick diet soda for good and 5 refreshingly tasty replacements.A Lesson on Prayer from a Gecko (Sunday 25 July, 2021)
For those of you wondering if God answers prayers, let me share a simple yet powerful experience.VIDEO: Brigham Young’s Vision of Ensign Peak (Sunday 25 July, 2021)
Joseph Smith had just been murdered, and the Saints in Nauvoo were fleeing persecution. It was now Brigham Young's turn to lead the Saints to safety. But where?President Nelson Shares Message About Competition During Tokyo Olympics (Sunday 25 July, 2021)
President Russell M. Nelson shared a message through his social media accounts about healthy competition and respect as the Olympic Games began in Tokyo, Japan this past weekend.The Secret of Symbols and Repetition (Wednesday 21 July, 2021)
Here’s why we need both to advance spiritual understanding.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “The Power of Godliness”, Doctrine and Covenants 84 (Wednesday 21 July, 2021)
The restoration of priesthood power in 1829 had greatly blessed the Latter-day Saints in the early days of the Church. But having access to the priesthood power is not the same thing as completely understanding it.VIDEO: Meridian Live with “Once I Was Engaged” Creators (Wednesday 21 July, 2021)
Meridian Magazine went LIVE on our Facebook page Wednesday night to sit down with the creators and star of Once I Was Engaged to talk all about the new film. In case you missed it, watch the video here.Ladies, Start Your Engines. Drive Your Business to Success (Wednesday 14 July, 2021)
More women than ever are starting their own businesses. They’re willing to embrace the title—and the risks—of “entrepreneur.” Dr. Charlene Walter can tell us a thing or two about entrepreneurship. She’s author of "Launch Your Inner Entrepreneur: 10 Mindset Shifts for Women to Take Action, Unleash Creativity, and Achieve Financial Success".VIDEO: Have You Ever Been Grateful and Unhappy at the Same Time? (Monday 12 July, 2021)
Scientists have begun to explore and discover the benefits of gratitude on our health and well-being. The Lord told us what gratitude could bring us long ago. (Doctrine and Covenants 77-80)University of Virginia receives unique donation of over 10,000 books and materials on “Mormonism” (Thursday 8 July, 2021)
Latter-day Saint historian Gregory A. Prince, who donated the collection, told UVA Today that the contribution would make the university “unrivaled by anything else east of the Rocky Mountains” in Mormon Studies.Demographic Decline – What’s Causing It, and How We Can Reverse It (Tuesday 6 July, 2021)
It might surprise you to know that most women in the world are having fewer children than they desire. In studying demographic decline we often ask, “Why aren’t people having children?” But perhaps, the more accurate question is “Why are people not having the number of children they desire?”The Miracle of Joseph Smith Discovering and Translating an Ancient Record (Tuesday 6 July, 2021)
The fact that Joseph Smith actually discovered an ancient record is remarkable. But translating it so quickly was an even greater miracle. Truly the Book of Mormon is, as the Lord described it, “a marvelous work and a wonder.” Even so, the printed text of the book is still its own best evidence of historic, ancient authenticity.“Don’t Forget the Birds”: Preparing Your Family for Fire Season (Tuesday 6 July, 2021)
Droughts threaten the safety of millions across a dozen states in the United States and in many other parts of the world. Fire season began two months early and has already been very destructive. There is much we can do to be prepared.Opinion: The trouble with claiming 1 in 5 Latter-day Saints is nonheterosexual (Wednesday 30 June, 2021)
One college professor got excited about some new statistics about Latter-day Saints identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual or other, and in partnership with a journalist colleague, couldn’t help but bring some immediate national attention to what they assumed was big news. And what was that news?See the Trailer for New Movie MISSION STORIES (Tuesday 6 April, 2021)
The film, which is coming to theaters on Friday May 7, is intended to be the start of an ambitious new franchise to bring amazing missionary stories to the big screen on an ongoing basis.20 More Temples Announced as April 2021 Conference Comes to a Close (Sunday 4 April, 2021)
As the April 2021 general conference came to a close, President Russell M. Nelson announced 20 new temples to be built by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is the second-highest number of temples ever announced at a single time.General Conference Memes to Share with Your Friends (Saturday Sessions) (Sunday 4 April, 2021)
We have taken some of the wonderful, memorable quotes from the latest sessions of general conference and turned them into beautiful memes that you can share with your friends and loved ones.A Conference Story from President Eyring: God Knows the Details of the Details (Sunday 4 April, 2021)
Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong said a striking thing in April 2021 General Conference, particularly because President Henry B. Eyring told a story that so clearly illustrated the point.Five Words You May Be Taking for Granted in the Sacrament Prayer (Wednesday 24 March, 2021)
Next time you listen to the Sacrament prayers, take special note of this phrase.The Washington Post says the Church of Jesus Christ has billions. Thank goodness (Wednesday 24 March, 2021)
Monday’s Washington Post story about the finances of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has already gotten a lot of attention. We think it deserves more. Not because the topic of church holdings is somehow new, but because the renewed focus on the church’s extensive holdings once again proves that, well, the church actually practices what it preaches regarding provident living and self-reliance.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Easter–“I Am He Who Liveth, I Am He Who Was Slain” (Wednesday 24 March, 2021)
What is the Atonement of Jesus Christ? How does it affect my daily life? How does it affect my eternal life? How do I receive the Savior’s redeeming power in my life? How can He help me with real, deep-down worries?The Valediction of Moses: A 2,700-Year-Old Biblical Document Long Said to Be a Forgery Gains New Respect (Tuesday 23 March, 2021)
A version of the book of Deuteronomy, long said to be forgery, has just been declared authentic after all, making it the most ancient biblical scroll known in the modern era.Child Exploitation on Pornhub is Just Another Reason Section 230 Needs an Overhaul (Tuesday 23 March, 2021)
Changes to Section 230 have been much in the news, but this section allows pornography websites to profit off of illegal content. It’s time to reconsider.Questions about the First Vision, Answered (Tuesday 23 March, 2021)
Every great organization has an inspiring story of its origin—a stirring anecdote of where and how it all began. That story often forms the basis for what the organization values, helps create connections and common bonds, and emphasizes the purposes of the corporation. The First Vision is our inspiring story that informs everything we do and everything we are.Being Right is Overrated (Wednesday 3 March, 2021)
How do we stop wanting to win every disagreement?Come Follow Me for Sunday School: “Strengthen the Church”, Doctrine and Covenants 23-26 (Wednesday 3 March, 2021)
In the early period after the Church was organized, the Saints were admonished to strengthen those who had already joined the Church, even as opposition and persecution increased. Even so, the Lord continued to provide encouragement and counsel to those who desired to help build the kingdom and establish the cause of Zion. These words are not just intended for those early Church members—they are for everyone engaged in God’s work—including you and me today.Video Games: Healthy Pastime or Pathway to Addiction? (Tuesday 2 March, 2021)
It is estimated that worldwide in 2020 8.4% of children were addicted to video gaming. In 2019, South Korea declared gaming addiction a public health crisis with over 600,000 of its children classified as addicts. Where do we draw the line between harmless activity and burgeoning addiction?Teaching Your Children to be Financially Self-Reliant From the Start (Tuesday 2 March, 2021)
When we help children understand there is happiness in providing for themselves through work and prudent budgeting, they are prepared to succeed in a world that rewards consumption and excess.Business Partnerships Are Like Marriage (Tuesday 2 March, 2021)
In our courtship days, some of us kept a long list of what we were looking for in a spouse. However, in the heat of the search some of us lost our list and fell "blindly" in love—hence the saying, "Love is blind." When we’re searching for a business partner, we better not be blind or we may lose everything, including our wallet and good credit.The Promise of a Prophet (Wednesday 24 February, 2021)
Little did I know I was fulfilling a prophecy when I went to visit Ardella Knight.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “The Rise of the Church of Christ”, Doctrine and Covenants 20-22 (Wednesday 24 February, 2021)
This lesson is about “the rise of the Church of Christ.” What is meant by “the rise of the Church,” and why is a church even necessary?Can Your Conversations Use Some ‘Design’ Work? (Wednesday 24 February, 2021)
We’re living in a world where civil conversation seems to be a lost art. Fred Dust wants to change that trajectory. He’s author of Making Conversation: Seven Essential Elements of Meaningful Conversation. Rather than approach his subject from an academic perspective, Fred uses a designer’s set of tools.No Problem Has an Eternal Life Span (Tuesday 23 February, 2021)
Even though I've lived most of my days in the sunshine, I vividly remember times I couldn’t imagine rising above the clouds. At times, the struggle to keep going without seeing the sun seemed to go on and on, like it would never end. My heart felt frigid, frozen.How Redefining Marriage Has Undermined the Rights and Wellbeing of Children (Tuesday 23 February, 2021)
Children pay a heavy price when society fails to acknowledge the harm that results from stepping outside the natural order of male and female joining to create new life within the bond of lifelong commitment. A landmark custody case shows just how heavy that price can be.Zero Population Growth isn’t the Answer, My Friend (Tuesday 23 February, 2021)
Zero population growth was the rave in the 1960s and 1970s. I almost got caught up in it myself. As I look at my family today, I thank God I didn’t. Surprisingly, it’s still a thing today.Come Follow Me Podcast #9: “The Worth of Souls is Great”, Doctrine and Covenants 18-19 (Sunday 21 February, 2021)
The Doctrine and Covenants is a book full of affirmations that individuals count—that each of us is important in the sight of God. Message after message is to individuals, some we have heard of like Oliver Cowdery or Hyrum Smith, and some to less familiar people.Emotional Power vs. Emotional Bondage (Sunday 21 February, 2021)
“We have to let our emotions out. I’m being true to myself. I won’t stuff my emotions just because you don’t want to hear them!” I immediately recognized this daughter’s familiar excuse for emotionally beating up another person that is so accepted nowadays. I wondered how it is still possible that these lies about emotions are still being taught.This Week, the LDS Film Festival Marks 20 Years of Fostering Movie Magic (Sunday 21 February, 2021)
The 20th annual LDS Film Festival happens this week with a full line-up of films for a four-day program celebrating the art of cinema. Event organizers are taking what they learned from COVID-19 safety guidelines to host an in-person festival at the Scera Center for the Arts in Orem, UT on Wednesday, February 24th – Saturday, February 27th.What Thomas Jefferson and Napoleon Had to Say About a Restoration of Ancient Religion (Monday 15 February, 2021)
Many years ago, I was impressed by an article summarizing testimonies of various Prophets about the Prophet Joseph Smith as a restorer of truth. The cause that Joseph Smith was called to proclaim was not something he made up, nor was he the first to look forward to or see the need for a return of ancient truths. See what Thomas Jefferson and Napoleon had to say on the subject.Fairytale or Failure?: The Fear of Love and Marriage (Monday 15 February, 2021)
In a quest for a happily ever after that won’t disappoint, more and more adults are choosing to cohabitate instead of (or prior to) marriage. In fact, almost 70% of Americans cohabitate before getting married. They may presume that foregoing the wedding bells means it won’t be so painful when they can no longer hear them.How Much is a Trillion? (Monday 15 February, 2021)
We have come to add a trillion dollars to the United States deficit several times over in the last months without much thought, perhaps, in part, because few of us really know what a trillion is.How Can the Church Heal From Political Divisions? (Monday 8 February, 2021)
Attending church with people who share a love for Christ, but different opinions on much else, helps us develop muscles of compassion. When a face and a name lie behind a contrasting opinion, we are much more likely to listen with charity and love.Tomorrow’s Headlines: “Psychic Wins Lottery” and “Hermit Gets COVID” (Monday 8 February, 2021)
Oh, the fun and enticements of chance. Whether it’s wizards that peep and mutter or people who say it can’t happen to them, one wonderful human trait is behind it all.Utah Area Presidency Updates COVID-19 Safety Measures (Thursday 4 February, 2021)
Church updating guidelines to comply with state executive and public health orders.A People Who Want to be Good Samaritans with Almost Nothing to Give (Wednesday 3 February, 2021)
These people are the kindest, most forgiving, humblest, appreciative people that I know. Yet, for 20 years I have been trying to change the mindset of thousands of these chosen people. What is wrong with me? Let me explain my dilemma.Is the Pandemic Making Your Family Stir Crazy? (Wednesday 3 February, 2021)
Here are 10 activities to enrich your kids and increase their testimonies at the same time.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Upon You My Fellow Servants”, Doctrine and Covenants 12-13; JSH 1:66-75 (Wednesday 3 February, 2021)
When the angel Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith in September 1823, he foretold the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods in connection with the translation of the golden plates. “When they are interpreted, the Lord will give the holy priesthood to some, and they shall begin to proclaim this gospel and baptize by water, and after that they shall have power to give the Holy Ghost by the laying on of their hands.”Need Some Relief Right About Now? (Wednesday 27 January, 2021)
You’ll never guess where you can find a ton of humor.Why Were So Many Sections in the Doctrine and Covenants Revealed during the Book of Mormon Translation? (Tuesday 26 January, 2021)
During the limited time when the Book of Mormon was being translated in April, May, and June of 1829, at least 13 revelations now canonized in the Doctrine and Covenants were received and recorded by Joseph Smith. Why were all these revelations needed and given during this time?“The Most that Evidence Can Do” (Monday 25 January, 2021)
Latter-day Saints are often criticized for their conviction that faith is a gift of God that one should seek. Evangelical anti-Mormons fault us for it, even though it’s clearly a thoroughly biblical point of view.Your Hardest Family Question: How can I know if my son has a pornography addiction? (Thursday 21 January, 2021)
Our young teen boys have locked phones but one of them was given a smart phone from a friend. He’s had it for a long time and we just found out about it. He has been looking at some awful stuff. Is there anywhere we can go for help?On the Peaceful Transfer of Power: Lessons from 1800 (Wednesday 6 January, 2021)
Historians can read plenty of pointed lessons in the presidential election of 1800. It is the revolution after the Revolution. It marks the birth of a party system and the visible decay of Federalist power. It shows a critical exercise of constitutional force by each branch of government, conducted under scrutiny and at great cost.Compound Interest and Examining Your “Physical Portfolio” (Wednesday 6 January, 2021)
The wise do take the time, year after year, to sit down and carefully analyze their financial portfolios. However, they may never even think to take a serious look at what’s going on with their bodies. They spend years working to create a sum of money for retirement, only to spend their retirement debilitated, tired, out of shape, or battling a life-threatening disease—if they live to their retirement years at all.Soul and Pre-existence in Pop Culture (Tuesday 5 January, 2021)
While the afterlife is often seen in pop culture, the premortality is seen much less. Why? And why does the subject remain so irresistible to artists?Faith on the Hill: The religious composition of the 117th Congress (Monday 4 January, 2021)
When it comes to religious affiliation, the 117th U.S. Congress looks similar to the previous Congress but quite different from Americans overall, a new Pew Research Center analysis finds. While about a quarter (26%) of U.S. adults are religiously unaffiliated – describing themselves as atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular” – just one member of the new Congress identifies as religiously unaffiliated (0.2%).Why was it Easy to Join a Church in Joseph Smith’s Day? (Monday 4 January, 2021)
For a young Joseph Smith living on the frontier of western New York in the early 1800s, amidst a cacophony of religious fervor from various denominations established in the vicinity, the burning question of the day was, which church should he join? Which one was right? For many young Americans today—who take for granted a strong and longstanding tradition of religious liberty and the veritable religious marketplace it provides—Joseph’s question is beginning to sound quaint and old fashioned.Are You All In? (Wednesday 30 December, 2020)
Here’s a New Year’s Resolution everyone should make.Can ‘Doing Less’ Be Smart for Your Business? (Wednesday 30 December, 2020)
We live in a world of change. That’s nothing new. It’s always been so. And the only way to make sense of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.Linus, We Need You (Wednesday 23 December, 2020)
To the extent there is a war on Christmas our best approach is to simply live an authentic Christian life out loud.VIDEO: From the Heart: Meridian Authors Share Their Holiday Stories — Marilyn Hadd (Wednesday 23 December, 2020)
Marilyn Hadd shares about how an overwhelming calling to be in charge of a Stake Christmas pageant became a glorious blessing in her life.2020 – A Blessing of Thin Times and Places (Tuesday 22 December, 2020)
My grandmother had respect for thin times. Maybe that is why she also respected thin places. The ancient Celtic Christians had a saying, “heaven and earth are only three feet apart, but in the thin places that distance is even smaller.” “Thin places” are sacred locations where earth and heaven meet. More and more of us know thin times, but do we know thin places?Pardon My Values, But Merry Christmas to All (Tuesday 22 December, 2020)
Why all the “Happy Holidays” PC drivel from our fellow Christians … and from us?Beware of Christmas Thieves (Tuesday 22 December, 2020)
Thieves love Christmas. We are often so excited about the holidays and favorite foods and traditions we think everyone is as kind and honest as we are. Nope, as much as we would love that to be true, there are still those anxious to claim our gifts as their own. Do not make it easy for those up to no good.VIDEO: From the Heart: Meridian Authors Share Their Holiday Stories – Mariah Proctor (Sunday 20 December, 2020)
The Christmas gifts we remember most change as we get older. Mariah shares a thought about a memorable gift she received and what it could symbolize for all of us.Planetary Conjunctions as Signs of His Coming? (Sunday 20 December, 2020)
One of the signs in the prophesied sequence that would be used to search for and find the newborn “King of the Jews” would be the quite sudden appearance of “His star in the east.” It is interesting to explore the scientific explanations for such a star and even more interesting to note that one such explanation is happening the night of December 21, this week, and you can see it.The Latest Changes to the General Handbook (Sunday 20 December, 2020)
Updates emphasize the work of salvation and exaltation, as well as principles of flexibility, agency and personal revelation.Celebrating Christ’s Birthday in Symbols (Thursday 17 December, 2020)
To some, the “take-over” of Christmas by commercial interests and media inundation, is insurmountably frustrating. To others, it is just evidence of the spiritual decrescendo of the end-times. But perhaps the sacred spirit of Christmas can be rekindled in our families, especially with our “Santa Claus” enthused little ones by using the power of symbols.Your Hardest Family Question: How do you convince someone that you really care about them? (Thursday 17 December, 2020)
My granddaughter-in-law’s mother has multiple sclerosis and is fairly home bound. Our family does lots of things together. We alternate holidays so she spends every other one with her mother. I feel so bad for her mother being on her own. I always invite her to come share in the fun, but she never comes. She has a limited fixed income and feels that if she can't contribute, she would feel guilty.VIDEO: From the Heart: Meridian Authors Share Their Holiday Stories–Daris Howard (Thursday 17 December, 2020)
As a young father, Daris Howard was deeply discouraged as Christmas approached. He had nothing to give his wife and young child for a gift and felt as though he were a failure in just keeping food on the table. This is when he learned an important lesson about how to deal with our lowest times.This is What the Temple is All About (Wednesday 16 December, 2020)
There are times when we experience something important without realizing it--when we don’t recognize until much later the spiritual significance of what has occurred. At other times, if we’re fortunate, we feel in the very moment that what is transpiring is deeply meaningful, and we are privileged to be a part of it. I recently had such an experience.I Love to Give a Gift with Meaning (Wednesday 16 December, 2020)
I look for gifts that will ring with meaning and be a treasure for the ones I love, and, as you might expect, I don’t always succeed. These kinds of gifts aren’t usually at my local superstore. Yet at Meridian we have just those kinds of gifts, and I want to share one of them with you.Christ’s Birth and the Forces of Evil (Wednesday 16 December, 2020)
How Christmas shows us “God Will Prevail”Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: Christmas (Tuesday 15 December, 2020)
As we end of our Book of Mormon study with Christmas, and the advent of Christ's birth, we are reminded of the center of all things prophesied and written in the Gospel.VIDEO: From the Heart — Meridian Authors Share Their Holiday Stories — McKay Christensen (Wednesday 9 December, 2020)
Have you ever driven down the road at night and suddenly been faced with headlights coming fast toward you in your lane? McKay Christensen shares about one Christmas where he learned a dramatic lesson about the meaning of forgiveness.Think You Can’t Make Much of a Difference? Think Again (Wednesday 9 December, 2020)
What’s the one area where you can really know you’ve had an impact?Anxiety is Contagious. Don’t Be a Spreader (Wednesday 9 December, 2020)
Many people have discovered that, in addition to being a smart way to reduce the spread of Covid-19, social distancing has some negative effects that include feelings of isolation, loneliness, and increased stress. And that increased stress can cause other problems such as changes in sleep patterns and difficulty concentrating. It doesn’t have to be that way.Twenty-seven Year-Old Babies: The Promise and Perils of Embryo Adoption (Tuesday 8 December, 2020)
Molly and Emma are scientific wonders. Not just because they have broken the record for the longest-frozen-then-successfully-implanted embryos, but also the mere fact that they were born at all - only 7.5% of children created in a lab will be born alive. While we celebrate these girls’ escape from the freezer and the parents who gave them both a womb and a home, as clear-eyed children’s rights advocates we must also recognize the complexities that “advancements” in reproductive technologies present.Family History Thrives During the Pandemic (Tuesday 8 December, 2020)
With the innovation that has come from people required to stay home, I began to notice a sliver of light behind the dark clouds; a spike in things relating to family history. The Spirit of Elijah seemed to shine a bit more brightly.God Cares for His Children One by One (Sunday 6 December, 2020)
It was a last-minute call, a scramble to change plans, and an early morning flight to San Francisco.
On Monday night, we received a call from Sister Smith, who, along with her husband, is in charge of the nearly 300 missionaries in the California San Jose Mission. More than half of those missionaries, like our son Gabriel, are in temporary reassignment, waiting to go to the country where they were called.
I greeted her call with excitement because we’d been planning to fly to San Francisco later in the week and go to the Oakland Temple with Gabe. Like so many missionaries during Covid, he left on his mission without attending the temple.
“I have some sad news,” she told me, “California is closing down again and the temple (which had only been open for six days) is closing tomorrow at midnight.” I immediately felt my throat close up and …
Christmas Is A Promise Kept (Sunday 6 December, 2020)
It is a marvel to imagine the fulfillment of all the ancient prophecies for the Savior’s glorious birth. Could it be that His sojourn and earthly experience could inspire our own choices for health and wellness?Come Follow Me Podcast #48, Moroni 7-9, “May Christ Lift Thee Up” (Sunday 6 December, 2020)
Moroni Chapter 7 is a powerful sermon on faith, hope, and charity given by Mormon, but when? You can't help but wonder. He was born in AD 310, was made a general at the age of 16 and knew war most of his life until he had seen his whole nation decimated. Was this sermon given at the time when he gave up leading the army?Memories Matter: So Write Them Down (Thursday 3 December, 2020)
So many people have asked me why I created the Nauvoo Diary and Engagement Calendar so I decided to produce a brief video telling you why. Please watch this as I will tell you some pretty fun stories in just a matter of a few minutes.“Let Me Know If There’s Anything I Can Do” (Thursday 3 December, 2020)
We’ve all heard this useless phrase, right? Or is it useless?Your Hardest Family Question: Should we help our niece get out of her unhealthy home environment? (Thursday 3 December, 2020)
Recently an extended family member reached out to me. She was feeling suicidal and asking for help to leave a bad family situation. She is a young adult still living in her parents' home, and I supported the idea of her moving out and living on her own as a healthy thing for her age. This desire to support her increased when I learned that she is regularly called names, yelled at, and belittled for her mistakes and opinions.The Latch on the Door was Broken (Wednesday 2 December, 2020)
One of my favorite spreads in the new Nauvoo Diary is for the week of June 14-20, 2021. The main photo on the left side of that spread is a vertical image of the door in the Carthage Jail that led to the jailer’s bedroom where he had placed the four prisoners. The placement of the prisoners in this room by the jailer was an act of kindness, he feeling like they would be much more comfortable there. But the latch on the door was broken, which would make all the difference.Meridian’s Black Friday Continues on Cyber Monday! (Thursday 26 November, 2020)
This notice is short and to the point. We want you to have these three wonderful gifts in your lives, in your families, in your homes and to afford to put them on your giving lists. We’re slashing prices for Wednesday through Saturday night only. Here are the deals.VIDEO: From the Heart–Meridian Authors Richard and Linda Eyre Share a Holiday Story (Tuesday 24 November, 2020)
Because of COVID-19, we have all felt a sense of isolation during this long 2020 year, so Meridian Magazine is doing something we hope will warm and fill you. Many of our authors are inviting you into their homes by video to hear a holiday story from their lives that matters to them. Today we are guests of Richard and Linda Eyre.The Grinch That (Almost) Stole Thanksgiving (Tuesday 24 November, 2020)
How to celebrate Thanksgiving this year is a challenging question for many American families. Whatever the details of the decision, let’s hold on to the transcendent spirit of the holiday.The Prophet Releases Message on Gratitude, Issues Seven-day Challenge (Friday 20 November, 2020)
Global faith leader offers prayer of gratitude and invites people everywhere to do two important things to help heal our fractured relationships and communitiesCome, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “By Faith All Things Are Fulfilled”, Ether 12-15 (Tuesday 17 November, 2020)
Moroni, who abridged this portion of the account, notes that he could not write even the hundredth part even of Ether’s account, but that which he shares with us of Ether’s words, his prophecies and his own commentary provides a wonderful illumination into the nature of God and Godliness.Why Did Jesus Say, “Never Have I Showed Myself unto Man”? (Tuesday 10 November, 2020)
Regarding the significance of a sacred encounter with the Brother of Jared, Jesus declared, “never have I showed myself unto man whom I have created, for never has man believed in me as thou hast”. This statement has perplexed many readers and scholars of the Book of Mormon. Does it mean that none of the righteous men and women who lived before the brother of Jared were visited in person by Jesus Christ?Why Would God Want to Break Our Hearts? (Wednesday 4 November, 2020)
I used to wonder why the Lord required the sacrifice of a broken heart, why He would want us to wade through sorrow. Now I believe that the very purpose of our adversities, even of our Abrahamic tests, is to break our hearts in the precise way that makes them open to the Lord’s light and guidance.Has Isolation Created a Loneliness Epidemic? (Wednesday 4 November, 2020)
Are you lonely? Do you know someone who’s lonely? This article is for you.Church Begins Limited Missionary Assignments Outside Countries of Origin (Wednesday 4 November, 2020)
At this time, the Church has begun sending a very limited number of missionaries to assignments outside their home countries. This process is deliberate and cautious. Because of the ongoing pandemic, all missionary travel is dependent upon local conditions and air travel restrictions, and some missionaries may not depart for several months.Turning Civil Tension Into Church Growth (Tuesday 3 November, 2020)
Planting seeds is more important than winning arguments.Why Joseph Smith’s Visit with Martin Van Buren was the Most Important Trip of His Life (Tuesday 3 November, 2020)
We have heard the famous story of Joseph Smith’s visit to President Martin Van Buren, but very few know how greatly the prophet was impacted by the event, nor that Congress actually held a hearing concerning the plight of the Mormons in Missouri with results that to this day would curl your toes.Want to Learn about Business? Study the Parables (Tuesday 3 November, 2020)
There’s an old saying that cobblers see only the shoes on others, dentists focus on teeth, and tailors only look at clothes. As a businessman, I tend to see business principles wherever I look, including when I read parables in the scriptures.Will We Have Our Pets in Heaven? (Wednesday 28 October, 2020)
How do we treat the other creatures God created?Is Your Path to ‘Success’ Clear Or Confusing? (Wednesday 28 October, 2020)
“Do what you can with all you have, wherever you are.” Teddy Roosevelt said that more than a century ago, long before Twitter feeds and Instagram memes. Today, when some people still get sucked into the vortex of victimization and blame, the path to success—and even the definition of success—seems to be up for debate.Come Follow Me for Sunday School: “I Speak unto You as If Ye Were Present”, Mormon 7-9 (Wednesday 28 October, 2020)
And so it was with neither friends, nor family, nor hardly any hope to speak of at all, Moroni penned the words or Mormon chapters 7-9. As we spend some time with them, I invite you to remember the harrowing circumstances in which they were written and take hope that, no matter what damage the pandemic or anything else may have done to you, your family, your finances, or anything else, there is always room for hope, for truth, for comfort, for Christ.Lessons from a pandemic: A letter to my children (Tuesday 27 October, 2020)
Someday, you will tell your children about the year of the coronavirus. It has been a long six months, filled with upheaval, uncertainty, suffering and strife. But it has also been instructive. When you tell them what it was like to have the world turned upside down in a week, I hope you’ll remember the important lessons it taught us.President Dallin H. Oaks tells BYU audience to ‘heed our prophet’s call’ to end racism (Tuesday 27 October, 2020)
“Of course, Black lives matter," said President Oaks, "That is an eternal truth all reasonable people should support. Unfortunately, that persuasive banner was sometimes used or understood to stand for other things that do not command universal support."This is Not Your Granny’s Food Storage (Tuesday 27 October, 2020)
Food storage was often characterized by worldly critics as eccentric — just steps away from building a nuclear bomb shelter under your house and stocking it with guns, ammo and dehydrated rations. The past seven months have proven just how valuable food storage really is and inspired many who previously thought it foolish to begin preparing. We have learned food storage is an individual family need. But, where to begin?test 14 (Tuesday 27 October, 2020)
…Quick test 4 (Tuesday 27 October, 2020)
…“You all are not alone”: On the Anniversary of the Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting (Tuesday 27 October, 2020)
It was the evening of October 27, 2018, just hours after Robert Bowers had carried an assault rifle into the Tree of Life synagogue, opened fire, and brutally murdered eleven worshippers simply because they were Jews. To mourn the victims as well as to begin to come to terms with this tragedy themselves, members of Durham’s Judea Reform Congregation were holding a special prayer vigil in their sanctuary. I sat on the side, in the back, hoping to help somehow, not knowing how deeply that service would affect me.Voting Your Values as America Faces a Major Crossroads (Monday 26 October, 2020)
As the United States faces a major crossroads in political ideologies in this election cycle, it is well-worth remembering the decades of counsel by Church leaders on protecting fundamental freedoms through Constitutional government. This vital counsel is intertwined with the great prophecies regarding Zion (the New Jerusalem) being built upon the American continent as stated in the 10th Article of Faith.How is The Current Pandemic Changing The World, Your World, and the Church World? (Monday 26 October, 2020)
This topic may seem like a departure from the theme of “exciting doctrines of the Restoration.” But I wanted to change things up a bit, and to make the point that the Restoration is not something that happened, but something that is happening.Come Follow Me Podcast #42: “I Would That I Could Persuade All … to Repent”, Mormon 1-6 (Thursday 22 October, 2020)
Every time I read the Book of Mormon and get to these chapters, I always hope that the Nephites will repent and that their civilization and people will be spared—and then it happens every time! They are destroyed. We can’t change their outcomes, but how about ours? Is there a message in here for us, right now, in our day?Is the Restoration about Salvation or Exaltation, and are You a Perfectible Entity? (Wednesday 21 October, 2020)
What does “salvation” mean to the Christian world? And what does it mean in the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ? And how does salvation differ from exaltation?Need Help? Don’t Be Afraid to Ask (Wednesday 21 October, 2020)
Now, perhaps more than ever, the success of organizations (not to mention entire industries) requires open and honest collaboration between individuals and teams. That may sound simple enough. But it requires a skill that eludes some people: asking for help.Capitalism – A Dirty Old Word That Means … Creativity? (Monday 19 October, 2020)
Under socialism’s tut-tuts, pursuing gain is greed. Socialists believe people should own no more money than immediate needs require because if someone has more, it means someone else must have less. They fail to see how pooling it stimulates creativity and increases the wealth pie.Unique Details We Learn From the Different Accounts of Joseph Smith’s First Vision 123 (Monday 19 October, 2020)
Joseph Smith’s First Vision is one of the most pivotal moments in human history—perhaps the greatest event since the resurrection of the Savior. Most of us are aware that the Prophet Joseph Smith, himself, recorded his First Vision on four different occasions, and that several of his closest friends who heard him speak also wrote down what they heard him say. Let me illustrate why reading more than one account could be important.Sharing Stories about Hard Things can Change Lives (Monday 19 October, 2020)
There is great power in sharing stories. Let’s take it a step further and say sharing stories, especially those about hard or sensitive subjects can be life-changing. Here’s why: You never know when your story may help someone (especially in your own family) overcome an obstacle in their own life.How To Love a Disobedient or Wayward Child (Sunday 18 October, 2020)
It’s never too late to learn to control yourself and to repair or improve relationships. We can’t ever give up on becoming who we are meant to become or helping our children meet the measure of their potentials, too. This is what I suggest parents to help their children and themselves have changes of heart and improve their relationships.Why a Column on Resilience? (Sunday 18 October, 2020)
Little did I know when I’d been working towards my master’s degree, five years prior to a head injury in 2018, that my studies about transformation from trauma into empowerment would benefit me later after my accident. What I discovered through those resilience studies can benefit more than just me.“A more beautiful message cannot be conceived.” (Sunday 18 October, 2020)
"Every man and woman of integrity, scholar and non-scholar alike, everyone who sincerely loves truth, goodness, and beauty, yearns for purpose in this life and immortality hereafter. Through no fault of its own, science can yield neither."Your Hardest Family Question: How do I convince my boyfriend I’m not his abusive ex-wife? (Thursday 15 October, 2020)
I'm dating a man who was left by his wife. He says he has moved on and that he wants to marry again, but all the signs show he hasn't moved on. He is still bitter.At G20 Interfaith Forum, Elder Bednar Reflects on the Role of Religion in the COVID-19 Crisis (Wednesday 14 October, 2020)
Apostle speaks of the powerful possibilities of partnership between secular and sacred institutions during the virtual gathering, hosted by Saudi Arabia.New Series on Meridian Explores 12 Incisive Doctrinal Questions to Fuel Your Faith (Introduction Part 2) (Wednesday 14 October, 2020)
It behooves all of us who believe in that Restoration to think deeply and specifically about just what it was that was restored, and the purpose of this series of articles (that begins next Tuesday) is to explore in a provocative way what some of the most interesting and paradigm-shifting doctrines those were and are.How’s Your Tolerance for Repetition? (Wednesday 14 October, 2020)
Why is there so much repetition in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ?Two Analogies That Help Me Keep My Testimony Strong (Tuesday 13 October, 2020)
Faith crises are real. More friends of mine have left the church this past year than at any other point in my lifetime. As I’ve spoken with several of these friends and seen the public remarks of others who’ve announced their exodus on social media, I’ve become aware of a few recurring patterns that precede anyone from distancing themself from the Gospel.We Can Never Stop Preparing (Tuesday 13 October, 2020)
“How are we to deal with both the somber prophecies and the glorious pronouncements about our day? The Lord told us how with simple, but stunning, reassurance: ‘If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.’"Come, Follow Me For Individuals and Families: “There Could Not Be a Happier People” 3 Nephi 27 – 4 Nephi (Tuesday 13 October, 2020)
There is much we can learn this week as we wrap up the Savior’s visit to the Americas. It is never easy to end something good and face whatever’s next, but the Savior teaches us to “ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for he that asketh, receiveth; and unto him that knocketh, it shall be opened” (3 Ne. 27:29). Good times await the faithful.Lessons from a Hurricane (Monday 12 October, 2020)
On October 4th, 1995, I was attending meetings in Montgomery, Alabama for the university when the speaker was interrupted to announce that a hurricane was headed toward Alabama. The meetings were canceled, and people rushed for home. Instead of going home, I drove to my campus office and was surprised that everyone was leaving in a panic. I figured that a hurricane was just a big windstorm. I wasn’t worried.The hard stuff. How do we overcome it and then write about it? (Monday 12 October, 2020)
One of my favorite questions to ask is, “When is a time you didn’t think you would make it?” Is it tough to answer? Yes! But it means the world. Not only for the storyteller, but for all those who will read your story. That is because overcoming obstacles can be easier if we know that someone we love or maybe even someone we don’t even know, overcame something tough and survived.The Only Trend I’ve Ever Jumped On: Getting a Puppy During Quarantine (Monday 12 October, 2020)
My hairstyle will never find its place in a coiffure magazine, and the walls of my house don’t reflect any hot new Sherwin Williams colors. Trendy I am most decidedly NOT, so when I read recently in The Washington Post that puppy sales and pound adoptions were through the roof during the COVID quarantine, I was astounded to discover that I am at last…trendy!Want Stress Relief? Change Your Questions (Thursday 8 October, 2020)
Instead of “how can I get control of my life, my child, this current situation?” what if the correct paradigm is: “How can I become more sensitive to the Spirit so I can learn the Lord’s will in regard to my children? How can I gain the strength and courage to yield to the Lord’s will and honor his plan of agency?"“If they are not true, then there is no truth” (Wednesday 7 October, 2020)
David Whitmer said, “I have been visited by thousands of people, believers and unbelievers, men and ladies of all degrees, sometimes as many as 15 in one day, and have never failed in my testimony. And they will know someday that my testimony is true." Read more of his personal witness in this stunning historical record.Let’s Hear it For Our Musicians (Wednesday 7 October, 2020)
Do you really concentrate on the musical portion of our meetings?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Ye Are the Children of the Covenant”, 3 Nephi 20-26 (Wednesday 7 October, 2020)
The ministry of Jesus Christ was divided into two parts: pre- and post-resurrection. In 3 Nephi, we are blessed to receive both parts, which He calls “the fulness of the gospel”.Protecting Religious Liberty at the United Nations and How You Can Help (Tuesday 6 October, 2020)
2020 is a big year for the United Nations; it marks 75 years since the United Nations system came into existence. One of the fundamental international rights protected by the organization in its founding documents was the freedom of religion. But now that freedom is being threatened in a very crucial way.Elder and Sister Gong Diagnosed with COVID-19 (Tuesday 6 October, 2020)
Their condition is mild and is being closely monitored by doctors.Why Should You Have Family Prayer? (Tuesday 6 October, 2020)
President Russell M. Nelson has taught, “The practice of Church members is to kneel in family prayer each morning and evening.” The model for how and what to pray for, both individually and communally, was provided by the Savior himself, both in the New Testament and in 3 Nephi.General Conference Memes to Share with Your Friends: Saturday Sessions (Sunday 4 October, 2020)
General Conference was filled with beautiful, inspiring messages, as always. We have created a series of memes from the speakers in an effort to help our readers to flood social media with uplifting, Christ-centered messages.President Nelson announces 6 new temples — 5 outside of the US (Sunday 4 October, 2020)
By introducing the locations of six new temples at the conclusion of the Sunday afternoon session of October 2020 general Conference, President Russell M. Nelson has announced 49 new temples in the less than three years of leading The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Gen Z is lost in a desert of shallow activism. We need a way out (Wednesday 30 September, 2020)
For my generation, Gen Z, the past four months have been our Summer of Discontent. Where we once envisioned with youthful eyes exciting internships and vacations we have found instead a barren desert of job loss and legally restricted movement. And yet, in some ways, my peers have been more active than ever before.How to Assemble a Night Flight Kit (Tuesday 29 September, 2020)
While in my home, I reflected on the fires in my area, listened to the thunder, and wondered if lightning would start new fires. I realized if a fire started in the middle of the night, and I needed to get out quickly, I wasn’t really ready. I didn’t even know where my glasses were. A Night Flight Kit should be kept near where you sleep, or in the bathroom attached to your bedroom ready to easily grab and run. Here is the plan.So You Want to Lead? Do It With ‘Feeling’ (Tuesday 29 September, 2020)
Daniel Goleman, a psychologist and science writer for the New York Times is often credited with popularizing the idea of emotional intelligence. Much has been written and said about the subject since Goleman’s 1995 book. One of the best examinations I’ve seen of the subject is a book titled "Leading With Feeling: Nine Strategies of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership". Here is an interview with the authors.Five Great Resources to Help You Prepare for General Conference (Tuesday 29 September, 2020)
This week, Latter-day Saints around the globe prepare for the October 2020 General Conference, to be held this weekend in Salt Lake City and broadcast globally. As the world continues to endure difficult and challenging times, this Conference promises to provide messages of love, hope, inspiration, and truth from the Lord’s servants. Here are five articles to help you prepare.Beautiful Calendar to Showcase the History of the Church for 2021 (Monday 28 September, 2020)
This coming year of Come Follow Me will immerse us in an in-depth study of the history and restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ. I’ve created a beautiful calendar that will aid you and inspire you as you study the sacred events and revelations of the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in these, the latter days.Illuminate Podcast: Practicing Self-care When You’ve Experienced Betrayal Trauma (Sunday 27 September, 2020)
Dr. Jill Manning joins me in this episode to talk about self-care for betrayed partners. She emphasizes the need to care for yourself physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually while healing from the impact of partner betrayal trauma.The Connection Between Forgiveness and Freedom (Sunday 27 September, 2020)
“I know I should forgive, but how? It makes me angry to even think about it. My father doesn’t deserve forgiveness because the things he did to me are unforgivable and I don’t think he even cared how much he hurt me. What sense does it make to say, Just forgive him’?”This Activity Page Will Help Your Kids Bring “Come, Follow Me” to Life this Week (Sunday 27 September, 2020)
I created Come Follow Me FHE to bless families everywhere when implementing the new Come Follow Me for Individuals and Families curriculum written by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Check out this free activity page for your family to enjoy this week, particularly as you prepare for General Conference.Are You Excited to Repent? (Wednesday 23 September, 2020)
When was the last time you felt thrilled about repenting?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Behold, My Joy is Full”, 3 Nephi 17-19 (Wednesday 23 September, 2020)
The power of these chapters to help us hear Him depends not on what we do by reading them, but upon what we do once we’ve finished reading them. If we rush off without a second thought, they will wither—forgotten in shallow ground. But if we take a moment to ponder, ask, listen, or just send a text to someone about them, the words of these chapters can change us like they changed the Nephites.What Does It Mean to Be Perfect? (Wednesday 23 September, 2020)
When Jesus appeared to the people at Bountiful, he taught them things that were similar to what He said in His Sermon on the Mount in the New Testament. However, the temple context of 3 Nephi, as well as some significant differences in wording, bring the inspiring words of Jesus more fully to light.The Timing of Christ’s Appearance to the Nephites, Shavuot, and the Temple Endowment (Tuesday 22 September, 2020)
One of the holiest celebrations that has persisted from ancient Israel till the present is known in English as The Feast of Weeks. To modern Jews, it is known as Shavuot. For Latter-day Saints, this feast has a surprising timing that correlates to higher ordinances in the New Testament, The Book of Mormon, and even the first temple ordinances given to Latter-day Saints in modern times.“Cuties”: Education – or Exploitation? (Tuesday 22 September, 2020)
"Cuties" is a French film that tackles thorny issues thrown at us by the modern world. It had the potential to be a film that parents could use as a tool in discussing problems that children and families today face. Instead, it has been getting a lot of bad press for good reason.The America I Once Knew (Tuesday 22 September, 2020)
The things that were once good about America are now considered bad. How did this happen?Did Lehi Observe Rosh Hashanah? (Sunday 20 September, 2020)
Although the Book of Mormon does not mention Rosh Hashanah by name, the observances and ideas traditionally associated with this festival resonate remarkably with the initial context and impetus of Book of Mormon.Pointing Fingers at Perfectionism (Sunday 20 September, 2020)
Is there such a thing as healthy perfectionism?For Ruth Bader Ginsburg, oneness never was meant to be sameness (Sunday 20 September, 2020)
It is Ginsburg’s friendship, not her court opinions, that the nation ought to remember right now.Raising Girls With Grit, Confidence, and Courage (Wednesday 16 September, 2020)
In today’s world, it’s no doubt harder than ever to raise children. So parents can use every resource they can get to help with one of the most important jobs they’ll ever have. One excellent resource is a book titled What Girls Need: How to Raise Bold, Courageous, and Resilient Women. Today I interview the author.When Everyone Lets You Down (Wednesday 16 September, 2020)
We’ve all been there. People disappoint us. Sometimes it seems there’s no one we can really count on.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “I am the Law and the Light”, 3 Nephi 12-16 (Wednesday 16 September, 2020)
Cookies must have the right ingredients, mixed in the proper order, and carefully prepared and baked. Similarly, the principles taught in 3 Nephi 12 may also be essential ingredients to discipleship and have an order for development in our lives.FAQs on this Week’s “Tracing Ancient Threads in the Book of Moses” Conference (Sunday 13 September, 2020)
Learn more about the fascinating information that will be shared at this week's upcoming conference about "Tracing the Ancient Thread of the Book of Moses" and find out how you can tune in (the conference with be streamed live online).Messages of Christ: The Woman at the Well (Wednesday 9 September, 2020)
In the Book of Mormon we find many examples of those who testify of the Savior and his divinity. Some of them initially do not appear to be likely witnesses of the Messiah. Yet once they received a personal witness, we learn that they became powerful missionaries bringing others to Christ.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Arise and Come Forth Unto Me”, 3 Nephi 8 – 11 (Wednesday 9 September, 2020)
In Helaman 14:2, Samuel the Lamanite prophesied, “Five years more cometh … then cometh the Son of God.” Giving the people a prophecy with a timetable is something prophets rarely do, and it appears that the faithful saints were keeping track and of time and watching for the Savior’s birth.Why Should 3 Nephi Be Read as the Book of the High Priest Nephi? (Tuesday 8 September, 2020)
No part of the Book of Mormon exudes greater holiness than the book of 3 Nephi—the book some have called the “holy of holies” of the Book of Mormon. Only someone intimately familiar with the traditional backgrounds of the Temple of Solomon and the Nephite temple experience could have so artfully constructed the text of 3 Nephi with such rich temple imagery and symbolism.Finding the angle to tell your life story (Monday 7 September, 2020)
Everyone has a story, and not just any story. Everyone has a fantastic, amazing story inside of their lives. If you don’t think so, take it from me, a journalist of over 20 years – they do. And I love finding those stories. Often, I can catch a scent of the story within the first five to ten minutes of talking to someone.10 additional temples set to enter Phase 2 of reopening as 5 more enter Phase 1 (Monday 7 September, 2020)
In its weekly reopening of temples closed in March due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is reopening five more temples and advancing 10 more to a higher level of operation in its four-phase reopening plan.Come, Follow Me Podcast #36: “Lift Up Your Head and Be of Good Cheer”, 3 Nephi 1-7 (Thursday 3 September, 2020)
“What if at 4:00 in the morning on a fall day I looked out the window and it was as bright as day? Would my heart take a leap and would I think: What is going on?!” It was pitch dark when I peered out my window and yet, we have record of an event in this week’s reading, where untold thousands of people could not help but see this incredible, unforgettable sign of a day, a night and a day wherein there was no darkness.Your Hardest Family Question: I just discovered my biological father is alive (Thursday 3 September, 2020)
I grew up four decades plus with little or no knowledge of my biological father and relatives. I accepted that he was deceased as I was told. How do I proceed from finding out that my biological father is still alive?First Presidency: Amid fear, isolation and sorrow of COVID-19 — the answer to conflict is faith (Thursday 3 September, 2020)
Capping a series of Church News articles on the COVID-19 pandemic, President Nelson and his counselors in the First Presidency — President Dallin H. Oaks and President Henry B. Eyring — reflected on the pandemic that caused illness and death, stifled economies, altered missionary assignments, closed schools, and curtailed Church meetings and daily routines across the globe.The Question: Equal Opportunity or Equal Outcome? (Tuesday 1 September, 2020)
Most people want equality of opportunity. Socialists want equality of outcome. Impossible without coercion. Building socialism that works is like building a snowman in the Sahara.Take the 30-Day Preparedness Challenge (Tuesday 1 September, 2020)
September is National Preparedness Month in the USA, and there is no better time to help our families start on the goal of becoming self-reliant and prepared people–ready for any challenge. The following calendar is a simple, inexpensive way to get started.How Are Samuel the Lamanite and the Biblical Prophet Samuel Similar? (Tuesday 1 September, 2020)
Samuel the Lamanite was likely not what the Nephites expected from a prophet of the Lord. He was a Lamanite, he came from outside their established institutions, and he proclaimed God’s ire in a radically public demonstration. Yet, Samuel is also everything to be expected of a biblical prophet.Latest temple update: More temples now designated for Phase 2 reopening than are in Phase 1 (Monday 31 August, 2020)
For the first time in the 18 weeks of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reopening its temples, more temples have been designated for Phase 2 than are in Phase 1 in the four-phase reopening plan following total closure in March due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.Our Credentials for Heaven (Monday 31 August, 2020)
A friend of mine asked a question that burdened her. “The scriptures line out the key choice we need to make—to live righteously which will result in our eternal happiness. But, how do we know when we are righteous enough to qualify to return home with Our Father? I am aware of all the ways I fall short. How do I know if my efforts will be sufficient in the end?”Attacking Other Faiths (Monday 31 August, 2020)
I’ve occasionally been asked, when I’m at academic conferences, what it’s like to teach at a religiously-affiliated university (BYU) where I’m expected to expose the errors of other faiths. I’ve invariably responded that I wouldn’t have any idea what it would be like, since the university at which I teach has no such expectations.Come Follow Me Podcast #35, “Glad Tidings of Great Joy”, Helaman 13-16 (Thursday 27 August, 2020)
In the Book of Mormon, the Nephites always think of themselves as the good guys. In a movie, they’d ride in wearing the white hat or the gold star, signifying their goodness. Yet, the Book of Mormon demonstrates that often the Nephites are relentlessly blind to their own wickedness and it is the Lamanites who are the most faithful and true.Your Hardest Family Question: I caught my young daughter reading a trashy novel (Thursday 27 August, 2020)
I just found out (20 minutes ago) my 11-year-old has read an inappropriate young adult novel. The book has inappropriate language and graphic sexual content. I am beyond crushed and upset.Elder Cook Discusses Brigham Young, Racial Unity, and the Need to Defend Religious Liberty (Thursday 27 August, 2020)
In a speech to BYU faculty, Elder Cook addresses being sensitive in creating racial unity, understanding leaders of the past in the context of their time, being Christlike in response to criticism, and defending religious liberty.Why Does Helaman 7–8 Feel Like a Funeral Speech? (Tuesday 25 August, 2020)
Nephi’s lamentation must have involved some dramatic actions in order to cause such a stir. Welch has suggested that “Nephi may have attracted attention to his message by carrying on as if someone had just died. … One can imagine Nephi dressed in traditional Nephite mourning attire (whatever that might have been), gesticulating on top of his tower perhaps in motions of bereavement."How Are You Doing in Your Spirit? (Monday 24 August, 2020)
Do you ever have one of those mornings where you just feel a little “off”? Maybe you didn’t sleep well the night before; maybe you have a pressing concern? Maybe your day ahead is packed and pre-stress is knocking at the door? Whatever the case, I understand. I've been there. That's when someone asked me an unexpected question.Eight Short Lessons from Samuel the Lamanite (Monday 24 August, 2020)
We see this brief introductory note in Helaman 13, “the Nephites did still remain in wickedness". Then something unexpected happens in the Book of Mormon. We hear the voice of a Lamanite preaching repentance to the Nephites. Samuel the Lamanite’s words are important for many reasons.In the Test of Life, Mistakes Can Be Fixed (Monday 24 August, 2020)
Some standardized tests come in clocked sections. When the time expires for one section, participants are not allowed to go back and fix mistakes or answer more questions. The Test of Life operates on a different premise: you can correct any mistake at any time until the Test ends.Church announces these Utah temples are moving to Phase 2 of reopening plan (Monday 10 August, 2020)
Ten Latter-day Saint temples in Utah are among 17 worldwide that will expand their limited reopenings after closing during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the First Presidency announced on Monday.The Power of a Smile to Heal Hearts and Bring Hope (Sunday 9 August, 2020)
There are more sources for comedy than ever before with online video platforms, social media memes, and GIFs, yet people aren’t happier. Happiness is a condition of heart that is created by connection, purpose, truth, and hope. How can we help create those things with one another?What’s the Hardest Part of Your Calling? (Wednesday 5 August, 2020)
We’ve all struggled to measure up and serve well. Here are some ways to make it much easier.LIDAR Imaging Reveals Mayan Antiquities of Warring People and Fortifications in Jungles of Guatemala (Wednesday 5 August, 2020)
As you have read the Book of Mormon, have you ever wondered why so many people got “lost in the wilderness” as mentioned in Mosiah 7: 4; and Mosiah 8: 7-8? Could there be a massive “wilderness” area in the Americas where travelers would get lost?Church leaders express condolences after explosion in Beirut, Lebanon explosion (Wednesday 5 August, 2020)
"We extend our heartfelt sympathies to each person impacted by the explosion in Beirut on 4 August 2020. We grieve the loss of life and extend our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who died. We pray that God will bless the injured and pour out peace and comfort on all who are mourning in Lebanon."Honoring Both Faith and Works (Monday 3 August, 2020)
At the then-appropriate age of 19, I was called to serve a mission in America’s Bible belt. I remember one evening on my mission when my companion and I were invited to attend a Bible study at the local Baptist church. We went with high hopes for sharing our message of the Restoration. We were disappointed.Prophecies About Technology in the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times (Monday 3 August, 2020)
Our current, digital age, where nearly 60 percent of the world population are active internet users and more than half are active on social media, should not be a surprise to Latter-day Saints. Why? Because prophets have been giving us a heads up on discoveries yet to come for decades.No injuries reported after shots fired at Provo MTC (Monday 3 August, 2020)
Police in Utah are investigating after they reported that the driver of an SUV shot at the security booth outside the Missionary Training Center in Provo in the early hours of the morning Monday.Why Did Alma Draw on the Teachings of Abinadi? (Tuesday 28 July, 2020)
Astute readers of the Book of Mormon may have noticed that “Alma [the Younger] shows an affinity for the words of Abinadi.”1 Nowhere is this affinity more evident than in his counsel to his son Corianton, where research by John L. Hilton III indicates that Alma made at least thirteen allusions or direct quotations to Abinadi’s teachings.Help Me Clutter Up Your Mirror: A Request for Inspirational Thoughts (Monday 27 July, 2020)
I solicit your help. I’m looking for short sayings to tape to my mirror, and to yours, too. You’ll have to do your own taping, though. I do not make house calls. Here are some of my favorites to get you started.What Do We Learn from Alma about the Resurrection? (Monday 27 July, 2020)
So fundamental is the Christian doctrine of resurrection and so familiar we may be with this idea that we may miss how stunning and incredibly unexpected this idea is.America Both in Crisis and on Trial (Monday 27 July, 2020)
A growing number of young Americans are not only ambivalent, but are outright hostile, toward America’s national origin.Parents Who Know: Stopping Child Exploitation (Sunday 26 July, 2020)
“I will do something to stop this!” I thought, as a friend of mine from Colorado told me that in the school databases in her state and my state, she found XXX elicit pornography? In fact, there are two easy things that we can all do to stop this porn-pandemic in the schools and libraries.It’s Okay to Fail: An Unexpected Lesson from Alma’s Mission to the Zoramites (Sunday 26 July, 2020)
In my early years as a seminary teacher, I always understood Alma’s mission to the Zoramites to be a great success. After all, this was the “dream team” of missionaries—full of all-stars. These people had successfully converted thousands of people in previous missions—of course they would succeed here. But there is more to the story.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “The Great Plan of Happiness”, Alma 39-42 (Sunday 26 July, 2020)
How do we change, repent and turn to the Lord? Alma sets forth a formula for all of us to follow that can help us change and avoid mistakes.Come Follow Me Podcast #29, “Look to God and Live”, Alma 36-38 (Friday 17 July, 2020)
We see many conversations in the Book of Mormon where fathers teach their sons and their impact changes not only their son’s life, but the generations that follow. The lessons are profound. The impact overwhelming. If there was ever scripture that calls out for fathers to step into their parenting role with power, the Book of Mormon is it.Your Hardest Family Question: What is the difference between helping and being used? (Thursday 16 July, 2020)
Our neighbor drives old cars and calls us whenever he breaks down, even in the middle of the night. My husband always goes and helps him but I’m starting to feel we are being used. Is there a dividing line between loving/helping our neighbor and being taken advantage of?Tad Callister: The Founding Fathers — heroes or villains? (Thursday 16 July, 2020)
“Today, it is common to criticize the founders of America. Judging them by today’s standards of equality and justice they do fail. Some owned slaves, none fought to give women equal rights. Most were wealthy white men..." But there is one crucial problem with judging them by today’s standards. It is a problem that can't be overlooked.The Problem with Presentism: Judging the Past by the Present (Tuesday 14 July, 2020)
Recent news footage of activists acting as judge, jury, and executioner on the past has been hard for me to watch. Here is the problem with seeing the events and people of the past through the lens of the present.Learn about being Heart Healthy in Cardio Miracle Webinar Tonight (Tuesday 14 July, 2020)
It is not too late to register for Meridian Magazine/Cardio Miracle’s Zoom webinar Wednesday night at 7:00 MDT. Called “Getting Your Numbers to a Heart Healthy Place”, it will be given by Meridian Publisher, Scot Proctor and Cardio-Miracle Founder John Hewlett.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “Look to God and Live” Alma 36-38 (Tuesday 14 July, 2020)
Have you ever had such fervent teaching moments, where you are overcome with an urge to share what you have seen and felt? I certainly have and I believe the Spirit has been with me in such moments and testified of truth.Teaching Your Children Discernment (Monday 13 July, 2020)
True discernment means knowing something is true, both in your mind and in your heart, and properly judging a situation or piece of information based on that combined assurance. So, how can we be sure that our children develop this skill?Plagues, Pestilences, Pests and Pandemics in These Latter Days (Sunday 12 July, 2020)
I continue to be intrigued that God not only knows but cares about and shares with his children important information about events that will happen in the future. Working with Michael Rhodes and others on the multi-volume BYU New Testament Commentary, especially immersing myself again in the Book of Revelation, helped to focus and refine my understanding of what God has revealed about the last days.Has staying in got you down? Try some family history talk at the dinner table! (Sunday 12 July, 2020)
In the past four months of pandemic craziness, dinner table conversations have been the highlight of the day for me. We haven’t been running off to soccer, football or dance practice and we have the ability to sit around and talk long after the food is gone. How has it gone in your home?Have You Dedicated Your Home? (Wednesday 8 July, 2020)
We need this now, more than ever.We Will Prove Them (Monday 6 July, 2020)
If “prove” means to test or try, and since God is omniscient, knowing the end from the beginning, then He already knows how we will do on the test. So why is the test necessary?A Texas Victory for Parents and Children We Can All Celebrate (Monday 6 July, 2020)
In the midst of a global pandemic, widespread Black Lives Matter protests, and general national upheaval, last week some good news for parental and children’s rights went virtually unnoticed.Choose Jesus and Reject the False Doctrines of Korihor (Monday 6 July, 2020)
As I read about Korihor’s false doctrine, I thought about that ice cream. Both please the carnal mind. Both are appealing. Both are popular. Both are easy, at a superficial level. Both sell us on the false idea that there is no need to do the hard work of preserving our health.A Few Dollars a Day to a Healthier Cardiovascular System: Learn What Researchers Have Spent Millions to Discover (Thursday 25 June, 2020)
On July 24, 2007, at age 55, I was rushed to the emergency room with acute appendicitis. During the emergency surgery my vital signs were at dangerous levels that triggered potential cardiac failure. I awakened from the surgery to the fact that I was facing the tragic ending my father, uncle, grandfather, and other male relatives had fallen victim to - heart failure at a far too young age.What Could Make You a Better Missionary? (Wednesday 24 June, 2020)
Courage isn’t really what we’re lacking.Hands and Arms as Trophies of Valor: Examples from Archaeology (Wednesday 24 June, 2020)
In the Book of Mormon, Ammon cuts off the arms of his Lamanite attackers at the waters of Sebus, and his fellow servants take those severed arms and present them to king Lamoni. Taking the body parts of one’s defeated enemies as trophies of valor and as a witness of how many were killed is a well-known practice throughout the ancient world, both Old and New.Why ‘Outsourcing’ Your Decisions Can Be Risky (Wednesday 24 June, 2020)
At a time when a pandemic is raging around the globe, it’s more important than ever to make good decisions. But the explosion of data and the relentless 24-hour news cycle have left many in a constant state of anxiety. There’s often a fear that the correct choice (shelter-in-place or not, face mask or not) is available but might be missed.What to Discuss – Before the Honeymoon (Tuesday 23 June, 2020)
Knowing what to talk about or how to talk about sex before tying the knot is often difficult. Couples aren’t sure what’s appropriate to discuss and may not have much practice talking about it, so it can seem uncomfortable. Some discussion of sexual intimacy before marriage, though, is crucial. Here are some practical suggestions that may help.The pandemic highlights a logical fallacy that, unless checked, could prove our undoing (Tuesday 23 June, 2020)
It’s been said that one of the hallmarks of maturity and intelligence is the ability to hold opposing ideas/positions in mind and see the truth in both. It's a skill that may provide the perfect antidote to the polarization we now see in politics.What We Have Learned – Let Us Not Forget (Tuesday 23 June, 2020)
Pandemics are unwelcome visitors, but they can teach us much about our own goals and priorities. It's important we don't forget the lessons we have learned in the past few months. These are a few you might've learned.“Old Man”: A Father’s Day Tribute (Thursday 18 June, 2020)
Veteran Nashville songwriter Jason Deere has a passion for writing songs that are tributes to people, places and events that are important to him. After all, he is the co-founder of the Nashville Tribute Band which has been recording and touring for almost twenty years now. With Father’s Day coming up, he wanted to do something special for his father.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “I Will Make An Instrument Of Thee” Alma 17-22 (Tuesday 16 June, 2020)
The scriptures tell of many middle moments, when afflictions were sore and deliverance seemed impossible: the wickedness of the entire earth before the Lord covenants with Noah and he is spared in an ark; the struggles of the Israelites before their deliverance through the Red Sea. Recently in Come, Follow Me, we read of one of Alma and Amulek’s middle moments, as they witness the inhumane suffering and death of many believers they loved.Your Hardest Family Question: My wife is dying and I’m a mess (Thursday 11 June, 2020)
My 74-year-old wife has recently been diagnosed with cancer that has spread. She is receiving a lot of medical attention and care. Unfortunately, it seems that this disease will ultimately take her life. My wife is a brave and courageous woman. The thing is I'm not brave and I'm having trouble with the flood of thoughts and feelings involved in trying to get a handle on the situation. Basically, I'm a mess.Not a Trivial Pursuit: Family History for the Novice (Thursday 11 June, 2020)
I have some family history expert friends. They have that certain look in their eye when they talk about genealogy. It’s hard to explain, but I would imagine it’s similar to the look that the children in “The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe” had when they returned from Narnia. It’s this quiet joy. They have seen the other side. In this case, we’re talking about the other side of the veil. It’s wondrous.Lessons from a Maya Temple Ceremony Dedicated to their Ancestors (Thursday 11 June, 2020)
Much of the ancient religious culture recorded on stone monuments at Izapa survives today among the living highland Maya. My wife, Cheryl, and I had the rare privilege in June of 2010, to witness traditional ceremonies – with roots of the K‘iche and Kaqchikel – conducted by Maya “Day Keepers” at Izapa for the first time in a thousand years or more.Overcoming the Obstacles to Family Revelation (Monday 8 June, 2020)
This week we will explore five practices or habits that can overcome the obstacles to family revelation and swing open wide the door of direct revelation and guidance from almighty God for our families.Illuminate Podcast: The Problem with Idealizing Motherhood and Glorifying Self-neglect (Monday 8 June, 2020)
In this episode, I interview Dr. Julie Hanks, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, author, and assistant professor at Utah Valley University on the topic of why idealizing motherhood can be harmful to women's mental and emotional health.How Wide is God’s Mercy? A Latter-day Surprise (Monday 8 June, 2020)
One of the greatest burdens on the souls of many Christians is the doctrine that the vast majority of humans are condemned to hell with no option for escape. How can these views be reconciled with God’s redemptive mission? Can the God of love be coolly indifferent to the destruction of most of His children?The Truth About Peace that Parents Shouldn’t Ignore (Sunday 7 June, 2020)
During the last four years I’ve spent a great deal of time battling racism and bigotry. I’ve had so many meetings at my kitchen table, gone to trainings, created videos and assemblies, read books, joined boards, spoken to principals, to legislators. And yet, I know very little. It’s messy stuff. Just when I start to think I understand, I realize I don’t.How Much Will You Give Away to Gain Your Righteous Desires? (Sunday 7 June, 2020)
What are your righteous desires? How hard are you willing to work for the realization of those righteous desires?Assuming the Worst (Tuesday 2 June, 2020)
When concern began to surface among some Americans at some of the unintended consequences arising from lockdown policies earlier this spring, the response in some quarters was almost immediate: too bad some in this country don’t care about protecting human lives! Reasonable arguments did exist. None of this stopped many from assuming the very worst about those who disagreed with their own views.Whose “Word” Was Fulfilled by Christ’s Suffering “Pains and Sicknesses”? (Tuesday 2 June, 2020)
Alma the Younger’s teachings to the people of Gideon about the future sufferings of the Son of God are recognized and cherished by Latter-day Saints as one of the most descriptive passages on the Atonement in all of scripture. In the midst of those inspiring and prophetic verses, Alma says the sufferings of the Son of God will happen “that the word might be fulfilled."Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “Have Ye Experienced This Mighty Change in Your Hearts?”, Alma 5-7 (Tuesday 2 June, 2020)
Sometimes our view in life becomes a bit warped. We don’t always see things as they really are. I expect if the Lord could show us things as they really are, we would be quite surprised at our narrow perspective and inadequate view. It’s not unusual as we live in the world to be blinded by the world and need to change. Change is necessary for all of us.Book of Mormon Reminder: Resist Voices That Stir Hate and Violence (Tuesday 2 June, 2020)
The Book of Mormon is becoming more relevant day by day during this time of dramatic tension and sweeping upheavals in our society.President Nelson Shares Statement about Racism and Calls for Respect for Human Dignity (Monday 1 June, 2020)
"The Creator of us all calls on each of us to abandon attitudes of prejudice against any group of God’s children. Any of us who has prejudice toward another race needs to repent."When We Drop the Judgment and Respond with Love (Monday 1 June, 2020)
Maybe you've heard about the accident? It's been on the news, all over Facebook, in the papers...about the three teens who got in a terrible accident this week on the Bonneville Salt Flats? The responses to this shocking event, that happened to close friends of my son, were telling.Eight Examples of Unity and Peace from This Weekend’s Protests (Sunday 31 May, 2020)
The events of this last weekend in response to the killing of George Floyd have shaken an already shaken country. So much focus remains on the rioting and the violence, that very little attention has been given to the peaceful protests and moments of inspiring unity that also occurred this weekend.Talking About Nothing: Is It Healthy? (Sunday 31 May, 2020)
It may test our patience some days when we really crave productivity or purposeful, deep conversations. But, the light, seemingly meaningless conversations give family members an opportunity to invest in each other in a different way than you might think.The Longest and Shortest Temple Recommend Interview Ever (Sunday 31 May, 2020)
Which questions for your spiritual life matter to you right now and why?Come Follow Me Podcast #22: “Have Ye Experienced This Mighty Change in Your Hearts?”, Alma 5-7 (Thursday 28 May, 2020)
I’ve always loved Alma chapter 5. It could be taken as the most introspective chapter in all of holy writ. Alma asks more than 40 questions of his listeners and really wants them to probe their spirituality in a deep way. But Alma wasn’t just talking to the people in Zarahemla—he is talking to us!Your Hardest Family Question: I don’t feel happy when my son is around (Thursday 28 May, 2020)
I have a young adult son, still at home, that we adopted as a young child. He had a lot of past trauma, and though we did our best to help him, he still developed borderline personality disorder and lies a lot.Cartoon: Gadianton Study (Thursday 28 May, 2020)
Don't know where you got that idea...She Wrote Fake News for Cosmopolitan and Now Regrets Misleading Women on Feminism (Thursday 28 May, 2020)
Sue Ellen Browder, a Cosmopolitan magazine writer for 20 years, describes what she wrote as “propaganda.” The goal? To sell women on the idea that sexual liberation is the path to the single woman’s personal fulfillment.Remembering that We Are Instruments in the Hands of God (Wednesday 27 May, 2020)
I have a feeling that we all need to be careful how we speak of what we have achieved in the work of the Lord. The distance between accomplishment—even righteous accomplishment—and pride is hard to measure without a magnifying glass.Do We Fall Into Categories We May Not Realize? (Wednesday 27 May, 2020)
Have you ever identified with some of the “-ites” in the Book of Mormon?You Can’t Do It All, And That’s Perfectly Okay (Wednesday 27 May, 2020)
“Put first things first” is one of those self-improvement prescriptions with a very high “Oh, duh!” factor. As in “Oh, duh! Everybody knows that.” Trouble is, almost everybody ignores the prescription.Come, Follow Me for Families: “Have Ye Experienced This Mighty Change in Your Hearts?”, Alma 5-7 (Tuesday 26 May, 2020)
The spiritual transformation that accompanies conversion is not just about being better, although that is part of it. It is about becoming a new creature with an entirely different perspective and purpose that comes from understanding the true nature of our redemption.Seeking Family Revelation through Priesthood, Blessings, and Family Prayer (Monday 25 May, 2020)
What is more important than holding and using the very power of God, and in that context, what could be a more powerful magnet to Family Revelation?Making Sense of Suffering (Monday 25 May, 2020)
We have all experienced it. Senseless tragedy. Incurable illness. Painful challenges. Unrelenting grief. Dashed dreams. One of the most daunting tasks for any mortal who hopes to sustain a vibrant faith in God is to account for suffering.Bare Branches: The Persistent Consequences of China’s One-Child Policy (Monday 25 May, 2020)
In response to an article about China’s involuntary bachelors, often referred to as “bare branches” because they fail to add fruit to their family tree, one person commented: “Who are you to stick your nose in China’s policies? Bare branches is not a problem it’s a blessing. There are way too many people in China already." Here's why it's not that simple.Victor Hugo on Immortality (Thursday 21 May, 2020)
"The earth gives me its generous sap, but heaven lights me with the reflection of unknown worlds. You say that the soul is nothing but the result of the bodily powers. Why, then, is my soul the more luminous when my bodily powers begin to fail? Winter is on my head, and eternal spring is in my heart." Read more of what Victor Hugo had to say about the immortality of the soul.The Hardest Part Seems to be Not Knowing How Long this Trial May Last (Monday 18 May, 2020)
I have learned in life that everyone has to go through difficult trials. No one gets a pass to escape! It seems that during the most difficult of trials, sometimes the hardest thing to endure is not knowing—not knowing how long the trial will last; not knowing how it might end.Faith and Fear in the Midst of Snitching: A Firsthand Account (Monday 18 May, 2020)
While the tragedy of the Coronavirus pandemic has brought out many examples of good as people pull together, sacrifice to help each other, and show courage in many ways, there have been many troubling developments as well.The Beatitudes of Alma: How the Blood of Jesus Leads to Blessings and Beauty (Monday 18 May, 2020)
When we read the words of Abinadi, trust those words, and act on the truths they convey, we can experience the same beatitudes and promises and blessings God delivered to Alma.They Don’t Want to Disappoint You (Sunday 17 May, 2020)
When teaching and training children, many parents don’t often think about the heart and bond of the child, and how the child is processing what the parent does and says. Since children often misunderstand us and situations, relationship disconnections occur.Want to make progress, feel happier? Listen to the right voice. (Sunday 17 May, 2020)
We all have two voices in our heads. It's important to learn to listen to the right one and not to mix them up.Discovering the Word of Wisdom: The Flesh of Beasts, Part I (Sunday 17 May, 2020)
I never imagined that some of the “great and important things” to be revealed might already be contained in the same set of scriptures I’ve been reading my entire life, just waiting for me to discover them. This is how I now feel about the Word of Wisdom.Has the volcano responsible for the destruction in 3 Nephi been located? (Wednesday 13 May, 2020)
Are there any candidates for the actual volcano that caused the destruction described in 3 Nephi? There are at least two, according to Jeff and Louise Wynn. But first a few words of explanation.Have You Fully Immersed Yourself in the Love of God? (Wednesday 13 May, 2020)
I wonder at Abinadi’s faith and fortitude. His sense of purpose and mission. His hope. He must have hoped that something, anything he said would have made a difference to someone, anyone. His message turned the tide in the heart of Alma the Elder. That one touched heart has changed the course of history.COVID Confessions of Meridian Authors (Tuesday 12 May, 2020)
I love to learn from others, and I thought you might too. I have asked columnists here at Meridian Magazine to share with us their experiences during the stay-at-home orders, including and especially what they have learned about how to be better prepared in the future.Is Latter-Day Saint Theology Responsible for LGBT+ Suicides? (Tuesday 12 May, 2020)
If a belief fits into a framework or narrative that is strongly held about an emotionally-charged issue, this belief takes on a very sophisticated life of its own. Sadly, this kind of misinformation has sometimes occurred with regard to suicide, a sensitive area that merits our tireless attention, careful analyses, and continued intervention efforts.7 Surprises: How the Coronavirus has Affected Real Estate (Tuesday 12 May, 2020)
People ask every day about how residential real estate will perform amidst the coronavirus and pandemic backdrop. Some folks (buyers and investors) are hoping to score a deep discount on property. Will they be able to do this?First Presidency Letter Asks that Meetinghouse Foyer Artwork be More Christ-centered (Monday 11 May, 2020)
In a letter today, the First Presidency is asking local leaders to ensure that the aesthetic feel in the foyers and entryways to the faith’s weekly worship spaces reflects an even deeper reverence for the Lord Jesus Christ. This effort supports President Russell M. Nelson’s call over the past 18 months to emphasize that “Jesus Christ is at the center of His Church”.Your Hardest Family Question: My alcoholic son refuses to honor our rules (Thursday 7 May, 2020)
Our son is having financial issues. He can work from home, so he came home to stay with us so he can regroup. We told him he could stay, but he couldn’t drink in our home. Evidently, that rule was broken the first day he came.17 Latter-day Saint temples to open for sealings on Monday, others to open in four phases (Thursday 7 May, 2020)
Limited opening of temples in Utah, Idaho, Germany and Sweden is the first sign of a return to Latter-day Saint gatherings as the coronavirus pandemic continues.What to Know – Before the Honeymoon (Tuesday 5 May, 2020)
“What will sex be like? What do I need to know?” These are the primary questions young adults have in preparing for the honeymoon and the intimate relationship in marriage. Gaining knowledge and deepening one’s understanding of sexual intimacy is one of the best ways to be prepared and not have fear.New Joseph Smith Papers volume features ‘impostors,’ plural marriage and poetry (Tuesday 5 May, 2020)
One of the most interesting documents in the newest volume of the Joseph Smith Papers goes by the unassuming title, “Revelation, 27 July 1842.” The revelation, dictated by Joseph Smith, provided Latter-day Saint Newel K. Whitney with instructions to use in performing the plural marriage sealing of his daughter, Sarah Ann Whitney, to the Prophet.The Covenantal Reason for Abinadi’s Preaching (Sunday 3 May, 2020)
God’s covenants dominate Mosiah 11-17. For starters, we have in King Noah failed covenantal kingship. God revealed in the law of Moses what He expects from covenantal leaders in Deuteronomy 17:14-20. I interpret these passages as a set of God decreed kingly dos and don’ts.4 Fascinating Insights about Seers, Seer Stones, and Interpreters (Sunday 3 May, 2020)
Readers may have some questions about what a seer is, how they are different from a prophet, what the Nephite “interpreters” are, and why seers might use oracular devices such as seer stones to receive revelation.Monitoring Kid’s Media Usage: One Plan Does Not Fit All (Sunday 3 May, 2020)
BYU School of Family Life researchers are discovering results that may be counterintuitive to parents who focus solely on limiting screen time for kids.How Do We Know When We’re Finished? (Wednesday 29 April, 2020)
Here’s how to answer to God with confidence.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “A Light…That Can Never Be Darkened”, Mosiah 11-17 (Wednesday 29 April, 2020)
Why did Abinadi’s face shine with luster as he spoke? Do we, at times, have this light in us? As we draw closer to the source of light, do we also gain greater light?Communities Are Becoming Like Caring Families During the Pandemic (Wednesday 29 April, 2020)
Amid the upheaval and for some the devastating effects of the current pandemic, there are also signs of a powerful transformation of communities uniting together as caring families. Here are some examples in the Mid-Atlantic area of the United States and around the world.COVID-19: An Opportunity to Re-Think Food Storage (Tuesday 28 April, 2020)
We know more challenges will come before the Savior returns. Consider this time the fire drill, like the ones we practiced in grammar school so we were ready. What have we learned we still need to be ready?VIDEO: When the Lights Go On Again, All Over the World (Tuesday 28 April, 2020)
Like the tremendous power of fire and heat, this tiny virus has shown the capacity to both consume and destroy, but also to refine and molten out the best in God’s children.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “A Light … That Can Never Be Darkened”, Mosiah 11-17 (Tuesday 28 April, 2020)
We don't hear much about Noah prior to his coronation. For all we know he was a half-decent young man. In any case he had impressed his father Zeniff enough to be chosen from among his brothers to receive the crown.Science-based vs. Faith-based Policies for Coping with the Coronavirus (Monday 27 April, 2020)
Though I am open about my faith and often welcome steps that allow faith to play a more visible role in society, I prefer to let faith be a personal matter and not a basis for government policies. Unfortunately, I fear that an abundance of faith, perhaps even blind faith, is behind many policies and plans being pursued by government leaders when it comes to dealing with the novel Coronavirus.Putting the Bible in its Honored and Rightful Place (Monday 27 April, 2020)
The Latter-day Saint view is that the Bible is a sacred and cherished gift from God to His children. But it is not the only source of God’s truth for His people.Harvard Magazine’s Misguided Attack on Homeschooling (Monday 27 April, 2020)
It was a lack of family time led me to seriously consider homeschooling. I had become acquainted with this alternative to the traditional classroom several months earlier after meeting a young couple that taught their children at home. This was in 1989 when homeschooling was painted as radical and some thought it shouldn't be legal. This family, however, did not seem radical in the least.New Logo for Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, Practices and Performances Still Paused (Thursday 23 April, 2020)
While the coronavirus pandemic has put practices and performances on hold for The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, it has not stopped the announcement of a new logo and strategic direction for the choir.Alleviating Fear and Anxiety About Intimacy (Sunday 19 April, 2020)
It’s normal to be a little nervous going into the honeymoon and intimate dimension of marriage. You may have some apprehensions, but these can be alleviated through preparation, knowledge, and good communication with your sweetheart and others.First Presidency Provides Guidance on How to Administer the Church in Challenging Times (Sunday 19 April, 2020)
Resources are provided in response to the continued disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.Five Mistakes Almost Every Parent Makes with Their Teen (Sunday 19 April, 2020)
Perfect parenting doesn’t exist. Still, if you can learn to recognize and reduce these five common parenting mistakes, you can model excellent communication for your kids and teens.Your Hardest Family Question: How do we help our daughter see she’s dating the wrong guy? (Thursday 16 April, 2020)
My husband and I are devastated and just don’t know what to do, if anything. She knows that we feel he is not the right guy for her, we surely don’t want to lose a relationship with our daughter but also have a really hard time just being around this guy.Latter-day Saints Participate in Global COVID-19 Relief Efforts (Tuesday 14 April, 2020)
Among the many projects underway, Church resources and volunteers are being used to help make much-needed face masks and other protective equipment for frontline health care workers.Why Do We Fast? (Wednesday 8 April, 2020)
When we hear the word fast, we often think of quick or quickly. That was my teenage understanding. I thought that Fast Sunday was supposed to pass quickly by. But that is not the original or core meaning of fast.Good Grandparenting: Don’t Manage, CONSULT! (Tuesday 7 April, 2020)
Our grandparental instincts are to give them everything and to simply “tell them what they need to know.” But as grandkids reach their teens, what they really need you to be is a reliable consultant.The Truth About Ambitious Parents (Tuesday 7 April, 2020)
This new global quarantine has turned every home into a homeschool and has removed the possibility for most activities that parents are accustomed to using to keep their children busy. Consequently, parents are stepping up to the parenting and education plate like never before.A Challenging, Early Journey Home from Our Mission in Morocco (Monday 6 April, 2020)
Flights home via Istanbul, London, and directly from Casablanca to Atlanta had been booked and canceled due to sudden Moroccan travel bans. We were leaving, we weren’t, yes, no, maybe, no. Meanwhile, Moroccan police patrolled the streets of Rabat blasting disconcerting Arabic warnings of some sort. The call to prayer still rang forth comfortingly predictable five times daily, but now Moroccans were banned from the mosque.Help for Distressed Couples in Quarantine (Monday 6 April, 2020)
Sheltering in place is tough for most people, but it's especially difficult for couples who were already distressed before they were required to spend days on end together. In this episode, I share eleven ways distressed couples can manage these difficult dynamics.Sunday Morning Session Will Include Worldwide Solemn Assembly With Hosanna Shout (Saturday 4 April, 2020)
Solemn assemblies are special, sacred meetings held for a variety of holy purposes. They require Latter-day Saints to bring an elevated sense of spirituality with them into the meeting. These assemblies have included the sustaining of new Church presidents, the dedication of a temple or another significant building, the introduction of new scripture, the instruction of priesthood leaders and other special gatherings.How this 1979 Conference Talk Profoundly Addressed Teaching Our Children in Isolation (Thursday 2 April, 2020)
“How would you pass the test, parents, if your family was isolated from the Church and you had to supply all religious training?...Tell me, how much of the gospel would your children know, if all they knew is what they had been taught at home?" President A. Theodore Tuttle asked an audience nearly 40 years ago. His admonitions and advice are profoundly applicable to us today.Looking Forward to General Conference: Similarities between King Benjamin and President Nelson (Wednesday 1 April, 2020)
There are interesting similarities between the callings, invitations, gatherings, and emphasis of King Benjamin and President Russell M. Nelson.27 Ways the Church is Prepared for the COVID-19 Pandemic (Wednesday 1 April, 2020)
Over the past decade, Church leaders have increasingly focused on strengthening faith in Heavenly Father and in His Son Jesus Christ. In retrospect, we can see the evidence of many ways that God has prepared His Church for the COVID-19 pandemic—and other calamities yet to come.The Secret Power We All Could Access, Yet We Don’t (Wednesday 1 April, 2020)
During these times of quarantine there’s an activity we all can pursue. It will bless us immediately. Yet we avoid it.The Coronavirus, Charles Dickens, and Heber J. Grant (Tuesday 31 March, 2020)
With the world mired in a coronavirus pandemic, I needed to do something productive. So, I decided to tackle a long-put-off project of going through several boxes of books. I was soon rewarded with the discovery of a 1928 copy of the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants and Pearl of Great Price which had a letter written by Heber J. Grant glued to the inside cover. Read his inspired words here.Staying Connected and Having Fun While Stuck Inside (Tuesday 31 March, 2020)
How often have we lamented shortened summer vacations as schools begin their practices and tryouts earlier and earlier in August? It’s time to look at stay-at-home orders as the blessing they can be. Let me share a few things our family and friends are doing.200 years later, the story of the Restoration is the story of overcoming adversity (Tuesday 31 March, 2020)
A wildly contagious flu with no vaccine in sight. Missionaries called home. Temples closed. General conference altered. Members asked to practice social distancing and preventive hygiene. A government edict to shut down all meetings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The year was 1918.Illuminate Podcast: Why you should share your addiction recovery story (and how) (Sunday 29 March, 2020)
Building an authentic community around those struggling with pornography addiction and betrayal trauma is essential for recovery. Steven, from Unashamed Unafraid, shares his experience of hearing how many couples have shared their story of addiction recovery.There is Sunshine In My Soul Today (Sunday 29 March, 2020)
It’s a choice to shake-off the shell-shock and find the strength and inspiration we need to make the most of these most amazing days leading up to General Conference. Here are my 10 favorite blessings of the COVID-19 pandemic.What your children need most from you right now (Sunday 29 March, 2020)
A friend asked my husband and I, “What do you do when your kids talk back?” I’m slow on the uptake, but my hubby answered immediately, “I listen.”Prevention is Still the Best Medicine (Thursday 26 March, 2020)
The headlines and newscasts are filled with fear and dread over the latest possible global virus pandemic. Many of the past warnings and forecasts never actually materialized as promoted, but notwithstanding revisiting the Word of Wisdom is appropriate at this time.Struggling with 100% Home-Centered Church?: The “DRAWN IN” Series for Families is Here to Help! (Wednesday 25 March, 2020)
With the “Home-Centered Church” principle being taken to a whole new level in the past few weeks; now more than ever, families are looking for ways to enhance their study of the gospel AT HOME. Especially families with children. David Bowman, creator of the DRAWN IN series, hopes his videos can help! Check out this episode celebrating the bicentennial of the First Vision.First Presidency Temporarily Closes All Temples (Wednesday 25 March, 2020)
After careful and prayerful consideration, and with a desire to be responsible global citizens, we have decided to suspend all temple activity Churchwide at the end of the day on March 25, 2020.Big Porn Seeks to Capitalize on the Pandemic (Tuesday 24 March, 2020)
In an attempt to stop our health-care systems from crashing amid the COVID-19 global pandemic, many are stuck in self-isolation, facing the stress of joblessness and indefinite uncertainty. At such a juncture, many men may well be wondering whether they picked the wrong week to quit pornography.Hear Him! How to better recognize the revelation the Lord is already giving us (Monday 23 March, 2020)
For the bicentennial celebration of the First Vision, President Russell M. Nelson invited us “to think deeply and often about this key question: How do you hear Him?” Answering the following questions will help us hear Him better and more often by recognizing the revelation we are already receiving.The Book of Enos and Covenantal Redemption (Monday 23 March, 2020)
One of the beautiful gems of the Book of Mormon is the Book of Enos. This little book packs in so much literary beauty, doctrinal truths, and applicable lessons that never dim with time. And the covenants of God are seamlessly woven into the tapestry of Enos’s testimony and experience.Free Webinar: Creating Strong Family Culture During Catastrophe (Sunday 22 March, 2020)
Since the majority of the world is now keeping themselves distant from people outside their immediate families, the role of family in all of our lives becomes more clear. How do we create a strong family culture through a catastrophe, strengthen family unity, and improve communication?Come Follow Me for Sunday School: “He Works in Me to Do His Will”, Enos – Words of Mormon (Sunday 22 March, 2020)
In this week’s readings, we will cover almost three hundred years of Nephite history. Most of our other readings contain only a few decades of history, at most. So, put on your seat belts, because we will be traveling at light speed. . . Well, almost.Come Follow Me Podcast #13, Enos-Words of Mormon, “He Works in Me to do His Will” (Thursday 19 March, 2020)
I remember, following Enos’s example, of going to the woods to pray in my life, in fact, more than once. I don’t think the location matters, but there is something magnificent to learn about prayer from Enos in his book.Can You Do Anything More to Protect Yourself Against the Coronavirus? (Thursday 19 March, 2020)
We feel almost helpless as the coronavirus sweeps across more than 178 countries in a very short time. We wash our hands. We stay inside. Is there anything more we can be doing?Your Hardest Family Question: How do I have a good marriage when my husband has Asperger’s Syndrome? (Thursday 19 March, 2020)
My husband is on the autism spectrum. He is highly intelligent, holds a PhD, has held admirable employment, and in many ways is shockingly gifted. But he is emotionally absent. I would like some support in dealing with that as a spouse.Jacob 5 and the Allegory of the Olive Tree (Tuesday 17 March, 2020)
Have you ever felt worried about someone you loved? Have you ever shared loving advice or counsel with someone who was at a decision point in their lives and you felt the weight of responsibility to teach them well? That is what Jacob felt when teaching the Nephites at the temple.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “He Works In Me To Do His Will”, Enos-Words of Mormon (Tuesday 17 March, 2020)
Sometimes a concise block of scripture can be especially powerful. Enos, Jarom, Omni, and Words of Mormon comprise 10 pages of the Book of Mormon. Yet, what lessons we learn in the pages about mighty prayer and forgiveness, the influence of righteous parents, offering our whole souls to God, and the wise purposes of the Lord.Staying Emotionally Healthy During a Pandemic (Monday 16 March, 2020)
How do we stay emotionally healthy in the midst of a global pandemic? In this special episode, I team up with Amy Cluff, a therapist who specializes in working with betrayal trauma and child/family therapy, to talk about specific ways we can all maintain our emotional health when facing these unprecedented global fears and uncertainties.President Nelson Shares Message of Hope During COVID-19 Outbreak (Sunday 15 March, 2020)
As worry and uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak continues and regular worship services of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been suspended worldwide, President Russell M. Nelson shared the following message of hope with all members.Temporary Adjustments Made to Temple Worship Around the World (Friday 13 March, 2020)
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sent the following letter March 13, 2020, to Church members around the world.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Rapidly changing health conditions around the world have been a source of growing concern. Many governments have placed restrictions that have required the temporary closure of a number of temples. As we have prayerfully sought to balance these limitations with the need to carry on temple work, we have decided to make the following temporary adjustments, which are effective March 16, 2020 for all temples around the world.
- Where government or other restrictions on public and/or religious gatherings would, in effect, preclude temple activity, proxy and living ordinances will temporarily be suspended.
- Where government or other restrictions do not preclude all temple activity, the following temple ordinances for living persons will be accommodated as capacity
VIDEO: Survivor of Brussels Bombing Shares how the Savior Helps Heal All Wounds (Wednesday 11 March, 2020)
When the Brussels international airport was bombed in 2016, missionary Richard Norby was terribly burned and injured by shrapnel. Yet in that moment, he knew the Savior was there for him and everything would be OK. Watch him share his story in a new video from the Church YouTube channel.How COVID-19 Will Impact the April 2020 General Conference (Wednesday 11 March, 2020)
Sessions will be done virtually; members will not gather at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City or at stake centers or meetinghouses in areas where COVID-19 is active.Church Releases Letters on COVID-19’s Effect on Large Gatherings of Saints and the Missionary Training Centers (Wednesday 11 March, 2020)
Beginning March 16, 2020, large gatherings will be postponed in Asia, Asia North, Europe, Europe East, the United States and Canada Areas. Additionally, all missionaries scheduled to enter missionary training centers in Provo, Utah, or Preston, England, will be trained remotely by video conference.How this WWII Jewish Refugee Became a Wise Steward of Her Family’s History (Tuesday 10 March, 2020)
Margit furiously peddled toward Southern France. The Germans had maneuvered around the Maginot Line by slipping in the through the Ardennes Forest and Belgium. Now they were thundering toward Paris. World War II was now knocking at Margit’s front door.Persuasion not Pushiness (Monday 9 March, 2020)
There are better ways to persuade others to your point of view than pushing them.The Origin and Significance of Jacob’s Temple Language (Monday 9 March, 2020)
Jacob, the brother of Nephi, was one of the all-time most powerful prophets of God. Having been born in a wilderness of affliction, he grew up in the protection and blessings of his brother Nephi to fully trust God. (Jacob 1-4)COVID-19: No Need to Panic (Monday 9 March, 2020)
The threat is still growing but we can be ready to deal with whatever comes.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I protect myself from my narcissistic husband and still live the gospel? (Thursday 5 March, 2020)
I would like to try to continue to live with him. I have been protecting myself from his outbursts and other behaviors, but I am not happy at home. I am not being nice to him. I am not living the gospel. How do I do that while still protecting myself?Preparing for Conference: The Much More Personal 1832 Account of the First Vision (Wednesday 4 March, 2020)
The first time the Prophet Joseph wrote of his First Vision experience was in 1832, while in Kirtland, Ohio. He would write or dictate his experience four times during his lifetime, but this first account is uniquely a personal one, highlighting the intimate experience he had speaking with God and the Savior face to face.Two Words That Can Help You Move Forward (Wednesday 4 March, 2020)
We’ve all procrastinated, felt gripped by fear, and doubted our abilities. Maybe the solution is simpler than we think.Following Confusion, Letter Released Clarifying BYU’s Honor Code (Wednesday 4 March, 2020)
"The moral standards of the Church did not change with the recent release of the General Handbook or the updated Honor Code," Elder Johnson writes, "There is and always has been more to living the Lord's standard of a chaste and virtuous life than refraining from sexual relations outside of marriage."Elder Callister on evidence for the Book of Mormon and why arguments against it fall apart (Tuesday 3 March, 2020)
In his Tuesday, March 3, LDS Business College devotional held in the Assembly Hall on Temple Square, Elder Callister listed past and present criticisms lobbied against the Book of Mormon and gave evidences of the book’s truthfulness. However, “there is none more certain or sure than that of the Spirit,” he said. “It is the witness of all witnesses — the evidence of all evidences.”How Extended Families can Impact Children’s Resiliency (Monday 2 March, 2020)
You may have missed an important discussion surrounding the health and future of the nuclear family sparked by an article titled “The Nuclear Family Was a Mistake” written by David Brooks and published in The Atlantic. To those of us who believe that the nuclear family is the foundation of flourishing societies, Brooks’ title was shocking, but his article makes an important point.What Should We Offer in Sacrifice? (Monday 2 March, 2020)
God has always invited-and frequently commanded-his children to offer sacrifices to him. We also must give the Lord what he wants, and we must give it in such a way that our sacrifice is a great indicator of our love.Steeped in Conflict? Here’s How to Break Free (Monday 2 March, 2020)
An eye for an eye, it’s been said, will only make the whole world blind. Unfortunately, some people didn’t get the memo. The result is turmoil, conflict, broken relationships, and missed opportunities.What You Would Need for a Self-Quarantine (Sunday 1 March, 2020)
The news on the coronavirus gets worse with each hour that passes. More travel advisories have been issued, the virus is now on every continent except Antarctica. A self-quarantine for you and me has become more and more likely.Illuminate Podcast: Couples Share Their Stories of Addiction Recovery (Sunday 1 March, 2020)
Kayla had no idea when getting married to Steven that he was viewing pornography daily and participating in prostitution. In this episode, they discuss Steven coming forward, early recovery, being disfellowshipped, excommunicated, and what they are doing in recovery today.The Pattern and Template of Salvation Revealed in 2 Nephi 31-33 (Sunday 1 March, 2020)
Did you know that the word temple and template come from the same root word? Like templates, temples provide patterns of structured guidance. Temples teach us heavenly patterns for how to live and understand God and His children.Come Follow Me Podcast #10 “This is the Way”, 2 Nephi 31-33 (Thursday 27 February, 2020)
In all our readings and studies of 2 Nephi chapters 31-33, have we possibly missed some critical teachings for our own spiritual progress? Let’s study together and see what we can find out.Preventing the Leading Causes of Death in 2020 (Thursday 27 February, 2020)
What are the leading causes of death and are there preventions you can do to stave them off? All of these causes of death are impacted by blood flow and oxygen delivery and the question is, what can you do to impact that? As it turns out, there is an answer.Looking Back at 10 Years of RootsTech (Thursday 27 February, 2020)
As RootsTech marks its 10th year, we look back on how it has made history—and celebrate its success.Prophet Issues Important Invitation As Historic Conference Draws Near (Wednesday 26 February, 2020)
President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared an important video message today through his social media channels. Watch the video here.Going Beyond Mindfulness to Heartfulness (Wednesday 26 February, 2020)
Just studying, just knowing what we know is not enough. Jesus wants us to put our faith into action, to bless the poor and imprisoned, to “do” as much as we “know”.In New Supreme Court Case, Religious Liberty Is at Stake (Wednesday 26 February, 2020)
In recent years, local and state governments have forced numerous faith-based adoption and foster care agencies out of business because of their religious beliefs about marriage. While some of those agencies closed with little protest, Catholic Social Services chose to fight back in the courts.Stream RootsTech This Week (Tuesday 25 February, 2020)
The world’s largest family celebration event, RootsTech, is back in Salt Lake City for its 10th anniversary. It will attract 26-30,000 people, representing 55 countries and 49 states and there are several ways to enjoy the event.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “This is the Way”, 2 Nephi 31-33 (Tuesday 25 February, 2020)
There's something amazing about reading the final words of any prophet as they sit down and seek to synthesize their life's experience into words of counsel to those that follow. Throughout Nephi we loved searching for the phrase, "My Soul Delighteth" to see all the things he felt were most precious about the gospel.Developing a Healthy Sexual Mindset (Monday 24 February, 2020)
Sexuality is not always seen in a positive, healthy light, which causes there to be uncertainty, shame, and uneasiness surrounding this sacred topic. Here are practical tips to change your mindset.Some Spaces Available with the Proctors on Tour Immediately (Monday 24 February, 2020)
If you've been dreaming about seeing the Holy Land or visiting heritage sites in England, we have an opportunity for you. Due some unforeseen circumstances and sicknesses, a few spots have opened up on tours THIS YEAR with Scot and Maurine Proctor.Contention is a Plague and Too Many of Us Are Infected (Monday 24 February, 2020)
Contention is contagious. It infects and it spreads, and will continue to do so until we recognize its danger in the messaging that we accept or promote, and act for change.A Church Prepared for Crisis: The Timeliness of the Church’s Emphasis on Home-Centered Worship (Sunday 23 February, 2020)
In China, all organized religious gatherings are forbidden now to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Without the ability to meet as usual, the only way to worship now is at home. Fortunately, we have been prepared for that with a curriculum and some practice.Watch: 7 Videos and Tips to Help You Tackle the Isaiah Chapters in 2 Nephi (Thursday 20 February, 2020)
Here are seven great tips (with accompanying resources) that can ease your study of the Isaiah chapters of the Book of Mormon this week.Your Hardest Family Question: I’m worried my husband isn’t attracted to me anymore (Thursday 20 February, 2020)
I walked in on my husband looking at pornography. I was crushed because he knew how I felt about pornography and promised he wouldn’t view it. Now all I can think about is him wanting to look at it.Six Observations of a Temple Worker (Wednesday 19 February, 2020)
Serving as both ordinance worker and patron in the second busiest temple in the world has allowed me to make some interesting discoveries. Here are six observations that I hope will--when carefully considered--improve the experience of those who serve in the house of the Lord.A Look Inside the New General Handbook for Church Leaders and Members (Wednesday 19 February, 2020)
The new handbook for leaders and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (first announced in January) is now available in English online and in the Gospel Library app. Nine of the 38 chapters have been completely rewritten, and one section of another chapter has been updated.Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “A Marvelous Work and a Wonder” 2 Nephi 26-30 (Wednesday 19 February, 2020)
Nephi mourned because of the destruction of his descendants which he was shown in vision. Because of his great love for him and indeed for all his children, the Lord showed Nephi how his people would be restored to the testimony of Christ through the Gentiles in the last days.On Giving Advice as a Grandparent and the Use of Duct Tape (Tuesday 18 February, 2020)
We understand that these grandchildren are the stewardships of our children and not of us, but we often think we know exactly what would “fix” things that aren’t working. So should we tell them?Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: “A Marvelous Work and a Wonder” 2 Nephi 26-30 (Tuesday 18 February, 2020)
Christ is calling us, the men and women of the Church, to help gather scattered Israel. That includes scattered living rooms and scattered weekly schedules and scattered teenage brains and scattered families. We all have different starting points but Christ will meet us wherever we are, thrilled that we’re making any effort to grow closer to him.How to Win an Argument with God: A Lesson Sponsored by the Corona Virus (Sunday 16 February, 2020)
Ever since I participated in debate competitions in high school and maybe before, I have relished the occasional thrill of winning an argument against a smart opponent. Forgive me for bragging, but I can rightfully boast some pretty impressive victories, especially my many victories against the smartest opponent of all: God.Illuminate Podcast: Being Sensitive to Women Who Struggle with Pornography (Sunday 16 February, 2020)
In this episode, I interview Alice Taylor, author of, "Restored: A woman's guide to overcoming pornography addiction." Alice share ways we can become more inclusive of women who struggle and how we can be more sensitive to their struggles.South Africa’s Second Temple is Dedicated (Sunday 16 February, 2020)
Durban South Africa Temple becomes continent’s fifth temple.Come, Follow Me Podcast #8: “We Rejoice in Christ”, 2 Nephi 11-25 (Thursday 13 February, 2020)
It is said that even a speeding bullet couldn’t get through Isaiah—well, let’s try to prove that wrong today. Let’s have some fun studying these seemingly difficult chapters together!Your Hardest Family Question: Should I have to share my space with adult children? (Thursday 13 February, 2020)
My boyfriend lives in Canada and has two adult daughters who still live at home. He told them they can live at home for as long as they like. We are obviously still in the early stages of our relationship. However, we’ve talked about what life would be like if we were to get married and move in together. He thinks I could just move in and live with him and his daughters and share the bathroom with him and his daughter.Four Tender Love Stories from Past Apostles (Thursday 13 February, 2020)
To celebrate Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d share examples of the tender, poignant love stories of a few of our apostles and prophets from the past. These couples typify the joy that can be found in a true eternal companionship whether it’s in those meaningful first meetings or in a lifetime of love, service and positive influence on one another.Join the Proctors on a 2021 River Cruise for Tulips, Windmills and Old World Charm (Wednesday 12 February, 2020)
In all our travels, nothing more totally delights us than a cruise on the Rivers of Europe. Every mile of the way and every curve of the river presents a new view. It is scene upon scene of pure old world charm, up close and personal. That’s why we jumped on the chance to host when Morris Murdock chartered an entire Tulips and Windmill Viking River Cruise—that’s a full, private ship--for spring of 2021 to visit the Netherlands and Belgium.The Meridian Grandparenting Forum (Monday 10 February, 2020)
Here’s the thing: Grandparents don’t talk very much about grandparenting. It’s kind of like 50 years ago when parents didn’t talk very much about parenting. Since then there has been an explosion of writing and talking and listening among parents. We want the same thing to happen with Grandparenting, and we want it to happen right here on Meridian.Praying Toward the Temple (Sunday 9 February, 2020)
As Solomon dedicated the house of the Lord, he asked for temporal and spiritual blessings upon repentant and prayerful Israel, and suggested a course of action for those repentant Israelites that would bless them continuously.Isaiah 52:1-2 as a Key to Understanding God’s Plan for Us (Sunday 9 February, 2020)
When God speaks, we should hearken. To hearken means to both hear and obey. When God repeats Himself, we should hasten to hearken!Why Worrying Doesn’t Make You a Better Parent (Sunday 9 February, 2020)
Somewhere along the way I got the idea that worrying about my kids made me a good mom. Because only neglectful parents walk around blissfully content, right? I finally learned that worry gives me three things I don’t want.Your Hardest Family Question: How do I support my daughter’s relationship when I disagree with it? (Thursday 6 February, 2020)
We have a daughter who is getting serious with a very inactive man. She is a returned missionary and has always had a deep testimony, until recently when she has questioned various church policies and leadership. Naturally, she has found a fellow who agrees with her.How to Access the Power of Pondering (Wednesday 5 February, 2020)
Do you ponder as much as you should? Most of us don’t. How can we fix that?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “Oh, How Great the Plan of Our God” (Wednesday 5 February, 2020)
I’ve often wondered why Isaiah was so important for us to study. But the question of “Why?” hasn’t helped me nearly as much as the question of “How?” How can we study Isaiah, a book of scripture that Nephi openly admits is difficult for people to understand if they aren’t deeply familiar with the prophesying of the Jews?Armed Intruder Shot by Police in Incident at Brazil MTC (Wednesday 5 February, 2020)
Here is the official statement from the Church on the incident.Learning from Laman and Lemuel (Monday 3 February, 2020)
Anytime we identify only with the heroes of a scriptural story, we may be walking away from an important invitation to grow. It is by seeing ourselves in flawed people that we come to understand what we yet lack and what the Lord would have us do to develop spiritually.Superbowl Culture Shock (Monday 3 February, 2020)
Recently, I saw one of the more incongruous scenes I've encountered. A sweet, young Muslim girl wearing a hijab was at a rental car desk helping people, and right behind her was a large TV screen showing what looked like a scene from a sordid "gentleman's club" with scantily clad women writhing to flashing lights.Losing My Temper: One Mom Confesses All (Sunday 2 February, 2020)
Even as a little girl, I knew I had a fiery temper. I remember watching the extraordinarily sweet singing leader at church and knowing I had a different set of DNA. My teachers taught kindness and I listened and did my best. My best was enough for a long time. Until that summer.Illuminate Podcast: Women Who Struggle with Pornography (Sunday 2 February, 2020)
In this episode I interview Alice Taylor, author of, "Restored: A woman's guide to overcoming pornography addiction." Alice went public with her story of healing from addiction and abuse to help other women know they're not alone and that change is possible.The Happiness Muscle (Sunday 2 February, 2020)
Did you know that laughter has a direct impact on your physical health by lowering blood pressure, increasing healthy blood flow, reducing stress and cortisol levels? It even strengthens the diaphragm?! Perhaps President Nelson’s secret to vibrant physical health is following his own advice to live with joy. Here are some practical tips to get to the “happiness gym” and strengthen your joy today!Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: “We Lived After the Manner of Happiness” 2 Nephi 1-5 (Thursday 30 January, 2020)
2 Nephi 1-5 are the final words of Lehi to his children. If you were about to pass on, what would you tell your children?Are You Hoarding Hurt? (Wednesday 29 January, 2020)
Some of us keep a little (or large) box of hurts and injustices that we open frequently, reviewing the unfairnesses of life. If you often find yourself ruminating over past injuries, you may be a hurt hoarder.Archaeological Evidence for 7 Locations on Lehi’s Journey to the Promised Land (Tuesday 28 January, 2020)
While there is still much to learn about the people and stories in the Book of Mormon, some of the best archaeological evidence to support the Book of Mormon comes from Lehi’s journey to the promised land.Feasting on the Book of Mormon Jewish Style (Tuesday 28 January, 2020)
“Bon appetit!” may not seem like an appropriate thing to say before a scripture study session, but studying at a local synagogue taught me otherwise. (Includes free lesson ideas to help you feast in your Come Follow Me study).Waiting for Answers (Tuesday 28 January, 2020)
People who pray learn that the correlation between prayers and answers is not easy to understand. Even people who have experienced dramatic, life-changing answers may encounter times in their lives when they plead for divine help without getting needed answers.Coronavirus Outbreak: What You Need to Know (Thursday 23 January, 2020)
The Coronavirus is making news as it spreads throughout the world. The virus has now arrived in eighteen counties and has no available vaccine. This article is not meant to inspire fear, only to help you examine how prepared you are to care for your family.How Can God Let Such Awful Things Happen? (Wednesday 22 January, 2020)
How can a loving God just stand by when disaster strikes?Stressed? Maybe Rest Can Be Your New Hustle (Wednesday 22 January, 2020)
Paula Rizzo was sitting at her desk at Fox News Channel in New York City when she felt a dull pain below her belly button. Like many hard-charging people might do, she ignored it. Two days later she was in the hospital ER. Her appendix had burst, spreading bacteria like a toxic cluster bomb. She could have died. Needless to say, this was a wake-up call.What Americans Know About the Holocaust (Wednesday 22 January, 2020)
A new Pew Research Center survey finds that most U.S. adults know what the Holocaust was and approximately when it happened, but fewer than half can correctly answer multiple-choice questions about the number of Jews who were murdered or the way Adolf Hitler came to power.The Right Place – Our Tiny Branch in Africa (Sunday 19 January, 2020)
I spent the first 25 years of my life attending very traditional Latter-day Saint wards in the heart of Utah. For the past two years, however, I’ve been part of a very different church situation. We live in Malawi with our two small boys. Although the branch feels very different from any ward I’ve attended before, many of the differences are what make being a part of the branch so joyful.How Understanding the Great Apostasy Increases our Appreciation for the Restoration (Wednesday 15 January, 2020)
There are moments when things click into place, times when seemingly random fragments of thought and information suddenly fit together to form a clear picture in your mind. In my mid-teens, I had such a moment, which altered the way I view the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.Church Announces Location of India’s First Latter-day Saint Temple (Wednesday 15 January, 2020)
The Church has also released an exterior rendering of the planned Benaluru India Temple.Who We Should Really Look Up to in the Story of Cinderella (Wednesday 15 January, 2020)
There’s a secret hidden in many of our favorite tales.Why “It Came to Pass” Is One of the Most Significant Phrases in the Book of Mormon (Sunday 12 January, 2020)
Mark Twain famously quipped that if Joseph Smith would have left out the phrase “it came to pass,” the Book of Mormon would have only been a short pamphlet. We may justifiably join Mark Twain in wondering why this phrase is used so much.Come Follow Me Book of Mormon Podcast 3, “Come and Partake of the Fruit” — 1 Nephi 8-10 (Thursday 9 January, 2020)
This week we are studying one of the pivotal stories in the Book of Mormon, Lehi’s vision of the Tree of Life.Your Hardest Family Question: My sisters have cut me out of their lives (Thursday 9 January, 2020)
Since the death of our mother last year, the relationship I have with my sisters has disintegrated. I'm being accused of posting mean things about them on social media. I have not done any such thing. I love them both and would not do that.What Sacrifices did Lehi Offer to God in the Wilderness? (Thursday 9 January, 2020)
The Prophet Nephi recorded that on several occasions Lehi and his family offered sacrifices during their time in the wilderness. In an important study of Lehi’s wilderness experience, Professor S. Kent Brown provided insight into why Lehi offered more than one kind of sacrifice.The Land of Disappearing Christians… (Wednesday 8 January, 2020)
There were no champagne corks popping, no crystal balls dropping in Wang Yi's new year. The pastor of Early Rain Covenant Church was in prison, spending his second January 1st in a dark cell, charged with a crime Americans commit every day: worshipping Jesus.Lessons from Dumbledore: Standing Up to Anti-Science Activism (Monday 6 January, 2020)
J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, is learning exactly what it means to stand up to one’s friends. On December 19, 2019, the politically liberal Rowling made the “audacious” claim that there is a difference between women and transwomen.Old Photos and New Photos Tell a Compelling Family Story (Monday 6 January, 2020)
We’ve all heard the saying that a picture is worth a thousand words – but have you ever written a thousand words to describe both your new and old photos? I have and I love it! Telling a story with an old photo, combined with words, either oral or written, is something special.My Hospital Miracle (Sunday 5 January, 2020)
What can actually happen when we invite God to help us do His work?Illuminate Podcast: Wendy Ulrich on Forgiving Those Who Betray Us (Sunday 5 January, 2020)
In this episode, I interview Dr. Wendy Ulrich, author and therapist, on the subject of forgiveness. We discuss the challenges of forgiving others, especially when there have been serious betrayals.“I Can See Clearly Now” (Sunday 5 January, 2020)
Here are three crystal clear perspectives and tools for your healthiest year ever!President Nelson Invites Church Members to Share the Restored Gospel (Wednesday 1 January, 2020)
"Select your own questions. Design your own plan. Act on any of these invitations to prepare yourself for sharing the important messages of the ongoing Restoration. It is your personal preparation that will help April’s general conference become for you not only memorable but also unforgettable."6 Steps to Prepare for Intimacy in Marriage (Wednesday 1 January, 2020)
Sexual intimacy is one of the most beautiful experiences that a husband and wife can share. It is God’s treasured gift to husband and wife. Without necessary preparation, though, it can be one of the most difficult aspects of marriage to navigate.7 Short Videos to Kick Off Your Book of Mormon Come Follow Me Study (Wednesday 1 January, 2020)
This week we are studying the introductory pages to the Book of Mormon. Among all the amazing resources out there, we have seven videos to help you and your family get started.Come Follow Me: The First Book of Mormon Podcast of the New Year (Monday 30 December, 2019)
“My dear brothers and sisters, I promise that as you prayerfully study the Book of Mormon every day, you will make better decisions—every day. I promise that as you ponder what you study, the windows of heaven will open, and you will receive answers to your own questions and direction for your own life. I promise that as you daily immerse yourself in the Book of Mormon, you can be immunized against the evils of the day…”Let Today’s Fiasco Anchor Your Family’s Faith Forever (Monday 30 December, 2019)
What trial would you accept if you knew it would secure your children’s faith?Come, Follow Me for Sunday School: Introductory Pages of the Book of Mormon (Sunday 29 December, 2019)
As we begin our study of the Book of Mormon this year of 2020, my desire is that we will open our eyes to the majesty of the book, and read it in a way that we have never done before.Your Hardest Family Question: My in-laws have blocked me on social media (Thursday 26 December, 2019)
My in-laws have blocked me on social media. They blocked me over three years ago because of a misunderstanding. We have since cleared up the misunderstanding, but they still continue to block me on all social media.How’s This for a New Years’ Resolution? (Thursday 26 December, 2019)
Is there really a way you can keep from being offended, all year?His Hand in All Things: Including a “Signs and Wonders” Live Drama at His Coming (Tuesday 24 December, 2019)
The arrival of Jesus triggered a complicated interrelated set of signs and wonders. These signs seem to me to have characteristics of the technical equipment and setup of a concert presentation of the Messiah oratorio or a play with many acts and scenes—on a hemisphere-wide or world-wide scale.Getting Your Kids “DRAWN IN” to the Book of Mormon This Coming Year (Monday 23 December, 2019)
The brand new DRAWN IN episodes and PDF Downloads are an engaging AND enjoyable resource FOR KIDS to supplement your family’s 2020 “Come Follow Me” study.Homesick for a Heavenly Home (Monday 23 December, 2019)
This is a dangerous rabbit hole to even skirt around, but in the spirit of full disclosure, allow me to confess a longing deeper than usual lately of the very real urgency to go home--not to our little hobby farm in the mountains, but to the Home home from whence we all came.The $100 Billion ‘Mormon Church’ Story: A Contextual Analysis (Sunday 22 December, 2019)
In an age inundated with headlines, the American public has perhaps become accustomed to sighing and shaking their heads with reports of corruption. So, when the headlines pointed at the Church of Jesus Christ this week, the takeaway for many readers was likely clear-cut. But, the story beyond the headline merits a closer look.Food for Thought: A 911 Dispatcher Hears the Hidden Plea for Help When a Woman Orders Pizza (Sunday 22 December, 2019)
How many times have people in our lives made hidden pleas for help that we could have acted on if we had been listening carefully, not just to the literal words ("yeah, everything is fine"), but the emotion and reality behind the words?How the Church of Jesus Christ Uses Tithes and Donations (Sunday 22 December, 2019)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uses the sacred tithes and generous donations of its members in worldwide efforts to love God and neighbor. In light of recent media stories that have misrepresented the Church’s approach, the Church provides the following summary.Come, Follow Me Podcast #50–“He That Overcometh Shall Inherit All Things”, Revelation 12-22 (Thursday 19 December, 2019)
Here’s the latest breaking news: The major war that was going on in the pre-mortal world between the forces of Lucifer and the forces of Michael has continued-but it has changed locations. All of Lucifer’s forces have been moved to this earth and continue to wage war against the Saints and the followers of Christ and His Gospel.Your Hardest Family Question: Is it possible to overcome lust? (Thursday 19 December, 2019)
I am a recovering addict, but I seem to never be able to overcome lust. My earliest memories are about sexual things and I have struggled with pornography off and on my entire life. No matter how well I’m doing I cannot seem to overcome lust and frankly I don’t know what success looks like.The Third Greatest Christmas Story Ever Told – Part 3 (Thursday 19 December, 2019)
Finally, Dickens happened upon a most extraordinary thought: change in human behavior does not and will not come from an external force. It will never be permanently engaged by device or demand. Change must begin and come from within.One American Sign Language Word We All Should Know (Wednesday 18 December, 2019)
Hearing or not, we all need to learn this key distinction.#LightTheWorld: The Mentor Whose Encouragement Changed My Life (Wednesday 18 December, 2019)
My teacher never knew that what he said brought me a promise from my patriarchal blessing that I had never understood.Let’s Traditionate! (Wednesday 18 December, 2019)
Isn’t memory interesting? Who knows what experiences will later become clear memories, and which moments will be forgotten? One thing we do know is that strong memories often spring from strong traditions. Without realizing it, we may be “traditionating” on the regular. We just don’t always know what children will consider traditions.Warm Hands for Christmas (Tuesday 17 December, 2019)
"Well, I’ve been thinking. This is the last day the stores will be open before Christmas. I have two quarters….” Papa had a little tease in his voice. My heart, ears, and hopes listened. “With the fifty cents,” he continued, “I thought maybe Chester would like to walk up to J. C. Penny with me to buy some gloves for him.” “Oh, Papa! Thank you. My hands do get cold,” I said through the potatoes.Heart of Africa: Honoring the Language of the People (Tuesday 17 December, 2019)
On the African continent, there are approximately 2000 dialects. The chief one in the Congo is Lingala. My father was aware that if I was to be effective in my work there, I should speak the “heart language.” At least once, he scolded me: “You aren’t studying Lingala, Margaret. You need to do better.”Church responds to allegations made by former employee in IRS complaint (Tuesday 17 December, 2019)
David A. Nielsen, a former employee for the investment arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, filed an IRS complaint last month alleging the church should be forced to pay taxes on returns made from invested tithing funds and challenging the faith’s investment strategy, humanitarian efforts and tax-exemption status.The Third Greatest Christmas Story Ever Told – Part 2 (Monday 16 December, 2019)
The following is part two in a three-part series on Charles Dickens' creation of A Christmas Carol.#LightTheWorld: A Vow to be Positive (Monday 16 December, 2019)
Some might think that optimistic people are fake or somehow disconnected from reality, but I know for a fact that positivity is one of our choices no matter what circumstances are before us.Bethlehem and the Gift of the Family (Monday 16 December, 2019)
Rather than being a burden to society, the family, when reasonably whole – not perfect, for that is neither necessary nor attainable – is the first line of defense when faced with threats internal and external, and it begins with its core: marriage.Elder Soares Dedicates the Arequipa Peru Temple (Sunday 15 December, 2019)
Peru’s third temple was dedicated Sunday by Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.#LightTheWorld: Ellen Patton, a True Example of Christlike Service (Sunday 1 December, 2019)
Every time I buy a book of stamps, I think of my beloved friend Ellen Patton who purchases nearly a thousand stamps a year. How does a single woman living in Boston have so many friends? She creates them.Come, Follow Me for Families and Individuals: “God is Love”, 1-3 John, Jude (Tuesday 26 November, 2019)
1 John is one of my favorite books in all of scripture. It brings us right home to God’s nature, who He is, and what He is about. The truth that God is love is an overarching theme woven into almost every verse. Who better to teach this principle than John, “the disciple whom Jesus loved?”Choosing Gratitude (Thursday 21 November, 2019)
You can see what a trap this is. The more we have, the more we expect. We get richer and richer but our discontents and demands grow apace. The effect is that we have richer, fuller, more pleasant lives than kings and queens of past ages, but we are not one whit more grateful. So, what is to be done?Church Unveils Plans for 2019 Light the World Campaign (Thursday 14 November, 2019)
In what is becoming an annual event, the Church is launching its fourth Light the World Campaign. Here's what's new and exciting this year.Here’s a Fast Way to Earn Some Christmas Cash (Tuesday 12 November, 2019)
You’ve been purchasing the First Vision Bicentennial Calendar by the thousands and we want to share the wealth. It might be the easiest way you’ve ever earned some extra Christmas cash.“Scientists are slowly waking up to an inconvenient truth.” (Thursday 31 October, 2019)
Paul Davies does not appear to be a Christian or a conventional theist in any normal sense of such terms. He is simply someone who pays attention to the data of physics and to the conditions apparently required for the appearance of life and who finds what he has found to be rather strange.Exciting New Book of Abraham Discovery Published: Shinehah (Wednesday 30 October, 2019)
Last week Pearl of Great Price Central published a Book of Abraham Insight that explores the very real probability that the word Shinehah in the Book of Abraham is attested in ancient Egyptian texts from Abraham’s day.The False Hope of the Transgender Language Police (Tuesday 29 October, 2019)
Always, a brand of period pads, recently announced it will take the Venus symbol off its products. Always is “committed to diversity and inclusion and are on a continual journey to understand the needs of all of our consumers,” the brand noted in a statement. Because in 2019, it’s apparently controversial to say that only women get periods.The Road to Sunderpur: A Legacy of Hope (Thursday 17 October, 2019)
In the midst of a desperate situation on the outskirts of India, where the leprosy-affected had no place to call home, a community began to flourish because of the sacrifice and work of one man. Looking to his example, we hope to build a school. Meridian readers have already raised over $190,000 towards that goal. We are so close, can you help us reach $200,000?The Power of a Single Egg (Tuesday 15 October, 2019)
An attempt to improve the nutrition of the children of the leprosy-affected in Bihar, India showed us how powerful something as simple as an egg can be in the lives of those in the school. Meridian has now raised over $180,000 of the $200,000 goal. Have you donated yet?Church Issues Statement Opposing Proposed Utah Psychologist Licensing Act Rule (Tuesday 15 October, 2019)
The Church has released the following statement in connection with comments filed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Family Services regarding a proposed professional licensing rule governing sexual orientation and gender identity change efforts.Into the Heart of a Leprosy Colony: A Lesson in Resetting my Priorities (Thursday 10 October, 2019)
Our generous Meridian readers have raised nearly $180,000, help us make that final push to $200,000. Every penny goes towards building a school for the children of the leprosy-affected. Here is the story of an Indian military leader whose unlikely conversion to the Gospel saw him leaving the life he knew to serve people he didn't.Safety in Chapels Is the Responsibility of Every Latter-day Saint (Thursday 10 October, 2019)
Update to security guidelines is a response to ‘changing conditions around the world’.Answering Your Questions about Leprosy (Monday 7 October, 2019)
We have now raised more than $170,000 towards our $200,000 goal to build a school for the children of the leprosy-affected. Here we answer some questions readers may have about the disease and how it affects the lives of those that contract it.Changes Announced to Strengthen Youth, New Young Women’s Theme Introduced (Sunday 6 October, 2019)
New adjustments were announced over several sessions of general conference Saturday that were focused around giving the youth of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints greater opportunities for leadership and growth.Your Hardest Family Question: My husband still has feelings for his ex-girlfriend (Thursday 3 October, 2019)
My husband was recently hospitalized and I came across an email he had sent to his college girlfriend expressing that he still had feelings for her and that he thinks about her and wishes that he could hold her tight and just talk about old times. Needless to say, I was devastated.Scriptural Support for the Recent Policy Change Regarding Witnesses (Wednesday 2 October, 2019)
On Wednesday, President Russel M. Nelson made a wonderful announcement that adjusts previous requirements for witnesses of temple ordinances. In case anyone was wondering if there is scriptural precedence for such a revelation, I would suggest there is.Another Historic Announcement as General Conference Leadership Sessions Begin (Wednesday 2 October, 2019)
As is customary for the October general conference General Authorities and General Officers of the Church met this morning to be instructed by the First Presidency. This instruction, also sent as a First Presidency letter to Church leaders, included a new Church policy related to the witnessing of ordinances, including baptisms performed in chapels and temples.Church announces historic change, enabling women to be witnesses for baptisms and temple sealings (Wednesday 2 October, 2019)
President Russell M. Nelson announced a historic change in policy for women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that will enable them to act as witnesses in two of the faith’s core saving ordinances, baptisms and temple sealings.HHS Secretary Tells UN General Assembly: ‘There Is No International Right to an Abortion’ (Thursday 26 September, 2019)
The U.S. health and human services secretary condemned efforts to provide international access to abortion at a United Nations conference Monday.Hope is Rising! (Wednesday 25 September, 2019)
We are more than half-way to our goal of raising $200,000 for a school for the children of the leprosy-affected in Bihar. Yes, our remarkable readers have already raised over $110,000! Thank you. Here is more about the amazing impact that Rising Star Outreach has already had among these children.7 Ways to Raise Responsible Kids (Wednesday 18 September, 2019)
We all want responsible kids. So what’s the best way to get there?Season Three Filming of Book of Mormon Live-Action Series Nears Completion (Thursday 5 September, 2019)
“We’re back in action,” Aaron Merrell, senior producer of the series, said while on set. “Season one was really exciting because we shot the story of Nephi and Lehi’s journey through the wilderness. In season two, we were able to capture a lot of really great doctrines and teachings. … [For season three] it’s the best of both worlds. It’s packaged around beautiful stories about people living the principles of the gospel.”First Temple in Portugal Opens to the Public (Tuesday 13 August, 2019)
The Lisbon Portugal Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been completed and is now open for public tours and information.The Power of Helping Your Children Remember Who They Are (Sunday 11 August, 2019)
“Remember who you are.” It’s a simple phrase, but one with deep meaning. I have said it many times as my children have walked out the door – off to school, out with friends or on a date. But in this instance, let’s add one more line – “Remember who you are…and where you came from.” Remembering is powerful. But now, helping youth remember is more. It is vital.Boastful? Arrogant? No, he wasn’t. (Monday 22 July, 2019)
Some critics like to use this quotation attributed to Joseph Smith as a weapon against him. Here's why it doesn't mean what they think it does.Layton Utah Temple Site Announced (Monday 15 July, 2019)
The temple, which was announced in April 2018 by Church President Russell M. Nelson, will be built on an 11.8-acre site located at the corner of Oak Hills Drive and Rosewood Lane in Layton City, about 25 miles north of Salt Lake City. Plans call for a three-story temple of approximately 87,000 square feet.British Isles Latter-day Saint Church History and Literary Tour Summer 2020! (Sunday 7 July, 2019)
Do you want to have the time of your life in the land of your forefathers? Yes, we are doing this tour again! It was a roaring success this past summer. Now, come join Scot and Maurine Proctor for the Ultimate British Isles Church History and Literary Tour this June 2 – July 13, 2020.Pope Francis makes change to Lord’s Prayer (Thursday 6 June, 2019)
Lead us not into 'mistranslation'. Pope Francis officially approved a change to the most famous prayer in Christianity.Latter-day Prophet Meets with Tongan King and Queen (Thursday 23 May, 2019)
President Nelson visits a kingdom rich in Church history.How I Learned the Secret to Pain Free Ministering (Sunday 19 May, 2019)
“Ouch?” I thought to myself while doing a stretch at our ward’s Relief Society yoga class. The pain in my hip continued to increase. Watching me hobble in and out of stake conference and squirm on the bench during the meeting, my ministers were waiting in front of our home when we arrived. They announced that they were going to give me a blessing. I offered no resistance. The words of the blessing taught me an unexpected lesson.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: Rejoice with Me; for I have Found My Sheep Which Was Lost (Sunday 5 May, 2019)
When a young child is learning to walk, falling down is a part of the process. No one chastises the child or points out his incompetence for succumbing to the law of gravity. Quite the opposite. Parents, loved ones and even strangers offer encouragement and positive motivation for the child to continue to increase in strength and try repeatedly to take those first steps independent and unassisted.Come, Follow Me Podcast #17, “I am the Good Shepherd”, John 7-10 (Thursday 25 April, 2019)
Have you ever wondered why John the Beloved included the story of the woman taken in adultery in his record? Surely he had hundreds of stories he could have chosen to complete his testimony—why this particular story? We’re going to explore at least three things about this tender encounter that you may have never seen before.We Need Children Even More than They Need Us (Monday 22 April, 2019)
As a culture, we tend to focus on how important adult influence is in the lives of children, how much they depend on us, and how challenging that dependence can be. We say almost nothing about how much we need and depend on them. Yet an understanding of what children do for us is central to any conception of how we can thrive as a civilization. In fact, we may need children even more than they need us.I Will Not Fail Thee, Nor Forsake Thee (Monday 22 April, 2019)
I am grateful for the determination with which the Lord hangs on to His children. The scriptures have taught me many times that God will not forsake me. I am pleased to know that He finds me worth fighting for. He believes that you are worth fighting for as well.Public Open House Begins for Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple (Monday 22 April, 2019)
The public is invited to visit the newly renovated Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. An open house begins Wednesday, April 24, 2019, and runs through Wednesday, May 1, 2019, excluding Sunday, April 28, 2019.Meridian is Fixed! We Have a Thank You Gift for You. (Sunday 21 April, 2019)
It’s been a rough couple of weeks on Meridian. For more than 18 years we’ve used the URL ldsmag.com. It was shorter than writing meridianmagazine.com and easy to remember and pass on. But the day President Russell M. Nelson asked us to not use LDS or Mormon as a description any more, we bought the URL latterdaysaintmag.com. We’ve been poised to move the site to that new address ever since. But we couldn't have anticipated the issues the transition would bring. Now we'd like to thank you for your patience.Church Leaders Offer Words of Sorrow and Comfort Following Bombings in Sri Lanka (Sunday 21 April, 2019)
"We are deeply saddened on this Easter Sunday by the bomb blasts in Sri Lanka. We offer our heartfelt condolences and sincere prayers to all of those affected by these tragic events." Read the full statement here.Plans Unveiled for Salt Lake Temple Renovation (Saturday 20 April, 2019)
Details and project renderings have been released regarding the upcoming closure and renovation of the historic Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including a virtual walkthrough of the plans that you can see here.Where Will Peace Begin? (Wednesday 17 April, 2019)
I had not expected this. The sorrow, the heaviness in my heart. A trip to the Holy Land, led by my brother Steve, had inspired me as I traced the footsteps of Jesus Christ and focused on His life and teachings. But an excursion to the Golan Heights had me standing on the crest of Mount Bental in a biting wind. My feet were planted on Israeli occupied soil, but my eyes were fixed over the razor wire border, gazing into Syria.Sharpening That Pencil for Life’s Next Test (Wednesday 17 April, 2019)
Everybody faces adversities in life. That’s plural for a reason. Among other purposes, we’re here to be tested. Sometimes we pray for a get-out-of-trials-free card, but that isn’t the plan. And is it possible that sometimes, we are a test for somebody else?Sunday Will Come (Wednesday 17 April, 2019)
I always knew that Sunday was a holy day – sanctified by God as a day of rest and worship: a day to renew our baptismal covenants through the taking of the Sacrament. It is also a day in which we study the gospel, perform service and refrain from any worldly activities. However, it was Elder Wirthlin’s powerful message--reminding me of the most important Sunday morning in history--that taught me Sunday is more than the above – much, much more!Sharpening That Pencil for Life’s Next Test-duplicate-1 (Wednesday 17 April, 2019)
Part of the plan is to accept the plan.The Great Sign of the Gathering of Israel (Tuesday 16 April, 2019)
March 26th, 2030, is not only the 200th anniversary of the publishing of the Book of Mormon, it is also the date of the fulfillment of one of the most important prophecies in world history. Both Enoch and the Savior foresaw this event, and declared it to be the sign of the beginning of the Lord’s work, to get the world ready for the Second Coming.Why Do Some Husbands and Wives Cheat and Betray Their Covenants? (Tuesday 16 April, 2019)
Few things are more devastating than learning that a partner’s been unfaithful. You commit yourself, your life, your time, your energy, and your heart to someone, and they betray all of it. Does your spouse legitimately care about you? How did this happen? Can you trust that they’ll never do this again? Let’s break these questions down.“If Thou Endure it Well”: In Memory of Meridian Author Ted Gibbons (Monday 15 April, 2019)
We at Meridian Magazine are sad to announce the passing of one of our beloved authors, Ted Gibbons, on Friday after a 10-year battle with cancer. Brother Gibbons has provided years of inspiring and insightful articles on Meridian and has touched the hearts and the lives of countless readers. Hope from ashes: Why the Notre Dame fire is a symbol of rebirth during Holy Week (Monday 15 April, 2019)
"If there is a moment when Christians should be ready to mourn the death of something, but to believe in the resurrection of something, it's Holy Week," said Father Brien McCarthy. "It is my belief that something is going to rise from these ashes," he said.Elder Renlund Dedicates Kinshasa Temple in a Historic Occasion for Latter-day Saints (Monday 15 April, 2019)
A key milestone, a blessing for Central Africa.Does That Face Look Familiar? (Wednesday 10 April, 2019)
Have you ever visited ancestral lands looking for distant relatives?An Easter Message from the First Presidency (Wednesday 10 April, 2019)
The First Presidency released the following inspiring Easter message via the Newsroom of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.The Meaning of the Name of the Book of Mormon (Tuesday 9 April, 2019)
The book is named after the ancient Prophet/Warrior Leader/Writer/and Editor, Mormon, who created metal plates with his own hands; inherited wagon-loads of Nephite records; edited their teachings down into one single set of plates. But do you know where that prophet got his name and what that implies about the book's title?What We Can Learn About Leadership From Christ’s Original Calling of the 70 (Tuesday 9 April, 2019)
Luke 10 begins with the Savior calling the 70 and sending them to the harvest. It is no coincidence, in the choices of the master teacher, that this all takes place during the fall harvest season. This calling of the 70, to aid in the harvest of souls during the meridian of time, is but the portent of the yet unfulfilled prophecies of the great harvest of souls in the end-times.Religious freedom on death row: How a new lawsuit affects a growing debate (Tuesday 9 April, 2019)
A new lawsuit could resolve growing conflict over the religious freedom rights of death row inmates, which have been in the spotlight since the Supreme Court issued two controversial and seemingly contradictory orders in recent months.Prophet Announces Eight New Temples (Sunday 7 April, 2019)
President Nelson also notes coming renovation of pioneer-era temples, including the Salt Lake Temple.Church to allow baptisms, blessings for children of LGBT parents, updates handbook regarding ‘apostasy’ (Thursday 4 April, 2019)
Children of parents who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender may now be blessed as infants and later baptized as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to updates announced Thursday.We Need Charity, but We Also Need Clarity (Wednesday 3 April, 2019)
Without charity we are nothing—but if you read that wrong, you also realize that without clarity we are nothing.The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Receives Official Recognition in Kuwait (Wednesday 3 April, 2019)
“We are grateful to the Government of Kuwait and in particular to His Highness, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al -Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, for his exemplary leadership in allowing freedom of worship in the State of Kuwait, in particular for the expatriate workforce," said Bishop Terry Harradine, leader of the Kuwait congregation.The Rising Generation in Rome (Wednesday 13 March, 2019)
How is the rising generation of Church members faring in this world that is becoming devastatingly more difficult? The values which we took for granted as the bedrock of life not that long ago have been abandoned in our society. That is one of the questions we hoped to explore when we came to the Rome Temple dedication. How are the YSA’s of the Church doing in Rome and across Europe?Why They Can’t Stay Away: 3 Missionaries Returning to Italy (Tuesday 12 March, 2019)
As we interviewed people in line for the Rome Temple dedication, we found that more often than not, couples and families were there because they were former missionaries or mission presidents who had served in Italy years before. Many of them never imagined a temple could come to Italy in their lifetimes. Here are three of their moving stories.Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families: Lesson Helps for Matthew 13; Luke 8; 13 (Tuesday 12 March, 2019)
This week we get to discuss many of the powerful stories that Jesus uses to teach us. I love the way Christ’s parables change to suit our needs and apply at a different level every time we visit them. This week we can re-discover with our children the magic of these teachings and encourage them to want to revisit them over and over again so that they can witness this chameleon magic in their own lives.Entire First Presidency and Twelve Apostles Will Be Present for Rome Temple Dedication (Friday 8 March, 2019)
The prophet will dedicate the Rome Italy Temple Sunday, March 10, 2019 with the rest of the First Presidency and all twelve apostles in attendance. This is believed to be the first time in Church history that all 15 leaders have gathered in one location outside the United States.Interfaith Project Doubles Expectations: 2,000 Kits Donated to ‘Days for Girls’ (Wednesday 6 March, 2019)
A Northern California Stake Center recently filled with 1,000 women of many faiths to present feminine hygiene kits to charity founder Celeste Mergens. Read how these kits will give education—and life—back to girls in third world countries.Questions about the First Vision, Answered (Wednesday 6 March, 2019)
Every great organization has an inspiring story of its origin—a stirring anecdote of where and how it all began. The First Vision is our inspiring story that informs everything we do and everything we are. Here are some questions about the First Vision with answers that are important to understand.VIDEO: What did prophets think about Book of Mormon geography? (Tuesday 12 February, 2019)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently released a Gospel Topics essay which reiterates the Church’s neutrality on the subject of Book of Mormon geography. While the Church itself does not have an official position on Book of Mormon geography, individual members and leaders of the Church have explored this matter in their own study and have offered various thoughts about where Book of Mormon events may have transpired.Miracles Among the Stars: Spacecraft Overcomes Obstacles in Historic Exploration Beyond Pluto (Sunday 20 January, 2019)
This mission demonstrates the dramatic coordinated use of inventions, space and earth based telescopes and other instruments, to say nothing of programming, networks, communications, and engineering applications across vast areas of space. All these things together in this example show the intelligence and power that mere humans can now use. We well should ask: “If our coordinated intelligent efforts can do so much, what then is God able to do?”Illuminate Podcast: The Importance of Self-Care on the Path of Addiction Recovery (Sunday 20 January, 2019)
This week, I interview Forest Benedict, LMFT, SATP about how men in recovery from pornography and sexual addiction can care for themselves in long-term recovery. He teaches that men with addictions are "masters of self-neglect" and don't have habits of taking good care of themselves. He is also in recovery himself and shares both his clinical and personal wisdom about how to build a strong self-care program.Gladys Knight’s Thoughtful Response to Criticism About Upcoming Super Bowl Appearance (Sunday 20 January, 2019)
"I am here today and on Sunday, Feb. 3, to give the anthem back its voice, to stand for that historic choice of words, the way it unites us when we hear it and to free it from the same prejudices and struggles I have fought long and hard for all my life..." Read the Latter-day Saint singer's full response to recent backlash over her decision to sing the National Anthem at the upcoming Super Bowl.Tender Mercy: Be Happy Sings the Little Bird (Sunday 6 January, 2019)
I have learned that I am not alone in recognizing that sometimes rare events involving nature, weather, family, friends, beloved animals, or even this little gray American Dipper who cheerfully sang his song of inspired support for me, are gifts of personalized tender mercies.Illuminate Podcast: Improving “The Talk”, Addressing Sex without the Shame (Sunday 6 January, 2019)
Our kids are tired of the same "porn is bad" talk and need better information from us on how to navigate the sex-saturated world that surrounds them. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Dean Busby, director of the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University, who co-authored a book called "A Better Way to Teach Kids About Sex", which includes a chapter on how to have a better conversation about pornography.A Happy New Year and a Healthy New You (Sunday 6 January, 2019)
Ring in the New Year with an inspiring weight loss success story! Exactly one year after launching a weight loss program, meet three family members who collectively lost 130 pounds in 2018! Here’s how they did it and you can too!8 Things I Do for my Health Daily (Wednesday 19 December, 2018)
One close friend asked me recently, “Scot, you’ve been through these heart episodes, you have Type 2 diabetes, you have been challenged with neuropathy and other obstacles. What do you do to keep the pace that you keep? How do you do it all?” In this very brief article I will share with you eight things I always do for my health—My eight secrets (but I’m perfectly willing to share)—all in trying to answer the question of my close friend.Our Top 5 Favorite Christmas Commercials That Will Warm Your Heart (Tuesday 11 December, 2018)
The other night my husband and I curled up in bed and watched countless Christmas commercials with tears in our eyes. Along with the inspiring #LightTheWorld videos you can watch here, these videos uplift and motivate you to make the most of this Christmas season by serving someone—even if that someone is your own family member. We loved them so much, I wanted to share them with you.Getting Into God’s Orbit: Who Can I Help Today? (Thursday 29 November, 2018)
From time to time, God gives us Spiritual Assignments that bless other’s lives in a profound way. These are assignments that can cross cultural and religious lines. When we are open to promptings, and look for opportunities, He will place us in the orbit of someone we can bless.Be Faithful Disciple-Scholars Even in Difficulty, Elder Holland Says at Maxwell Institute (Wednesday 14 November, 2018)
Speaking to a capacity crowd in the Joseph Smith Building on the university’s Provo campus, Elder Holland explored the importance of scholarship and discipleship and how, in both, representing the Savior is most important.Abraham’s Chiasm (Tuesday 13 November, 2018)
It is noteworthy that the Book of Abraham begins and ends with a concept that wouldn’t be even noticeable except that the ending represents a purposeful contextual anomaly. The last chapters are the creation chapters ending with the creation of Eve followed by Adam naming the animals. The other creation stories in Genesis and Moses recount Adam naming the animals and then receiving his completing other half, Eve. Why does Abraham reverse the order of this little detail?Your Spouse Cheated on You. Now What? (Tuesday 30 October, 2018)
There may be nothing so devastating to a marriage as infidelity. The eradicated trust, the deep wounds of betrayal, and the feelings of shame create a perfect storm, wreaking havoc from which many never come back. If this is your current situation, know that through the pain there is hope.The Surprise is that Mental Wellness Begins in the Gut (Monday 15 October, 2018)
Like most of us, Rich Higbee never expected to cope with mental health challenges in his family, or that one daughter’s unhappiness could end up flooding his entire family. He has worked in the health and wellness industry for 24 years and has the gospel—enough to surely have a vibrant, mentally well family. Yet, we don’t always get what we expect, including Rich who didn’t know what an unexpected turn his life would take.Learning to Call Out to the Lord at All Times (Not Just in Times of Great Need) (Monday 1 October, 2018)
The verb "pray" appears twenty-two times in the Doctrine and Covenants. Nine of those times it is accompanied by the word "always." Never mind if it is midnight or an even more unreasonable hour; "Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep". If the Teacher is needed, call Him. If He is not needed, call Him.Having the Faith to be Planted (Monday 20 August, 2018)
Difficult. Overwhelming. Incapacitating. The pain is clearly visible beneath the transparently plain language, as when Sister Fuhriman says that “It seems impossible at times to give my heart to someone when there isn’t someone who has made the same commitment to me.” This unique talk stands in stark contrast to the ruthless optimism that pervades most of what we hear in General Conference.The Abiding Power of Sacred Family Rituals (Thursday 16 August, 2018)
“What is the best thing I can do as a parent to bring our family closer together?”“How can I best strengthen my child’s faith?” As scholars and researchers of family and religion, questions like these are sometimes directed our way. Our two decades of interviewing about 200 very strong, “exemplar” families of various faiths from around the United States have revealed some answers to these difficult but vital questions.First-Rate Moroni Movie Will Happen (With Your Help) (Wednesday 8 August, 2018)
His wildly successful first Kickstarter allowed him to make a spine-tingly good short concept film with real Hollywood talent (including Ben Cross, who I loved in Star Trek, Chariots of Fire, and First Knight). Now Darin Southam is back, swinging for the fences with a new Kickstarter looking to fund the full feature film. With our help, this could be real. It could also be really good.Your Hardest Family Question: Am I being too emotionally sensitive? (Thursday 2 August, 2018)
I’m a highly sensitive person and I know that I can sometimes get stuck in my emotions and make things more difficult than they need to be. My friends and family often give me a hard time, so I try to push through and not make a big deal about things. At the same time, my therapist tells me that it’s okay for me to have my feelings. I feel torn about how to reconcile these two things.Why Christians Can’t Compromise on Conscience (Thursday 2 August, 2018)
An attack on the faith is an attack on the virtue of the faithful, which a healthy society would cherish.What Does Mary Whitmer Teach Us About Enduring Trials? (Thursday 2 August, 2018)
The Three and Eight Witnesses of the Golden Plates stand out in Latter-day Saint History. Their testimonies are among the first words that many read in the Book of Mormon, and they stood by these testimonies to the end of their lives, despite trial and personal disaffection with Joseph Smith. But there are “unofficial” witnesses, including some of the prominent women of the early Restoration.Understanding the Kingdoms of Ancient Israel (Tuesday 17 July, 2018)
In this episode of LDS Perspectives Podcast, Laura Harris Hales interviews Dr. Dana M. Pike on Israel’s united and divided monarchies. In the early pages of the Old Testament, the people ask Samuel for a king, so they can be like the other nations and defend themselves. As seen in the Bible, this worked out to be both a blessing and a curse.Preparing for the Honeymoon: 10 Tips for the Wedding Night (Wednesday 11 July, 2018)
It’s wedding season! With intimacy issues as one of the major causes of divorce and dissatisfaction in marriage, couples would be wise to prepare for the honeymoon and the intimate aspects of marriage just as much as they prepare for the wedding day.How the Lord Protected Latter-day Saints in the Air Raids of 1940s London (Tuesday 10 July, 2018)
London, particularly, and many other large cities were in danger of destruction. Bombing began and it was very severe. Many people perished by day and by night. Latter-day Saints, I imagine, with the rest of the people prayed harder than ever before to be delivered from destruction.Why children have the most to lose in the latest battle over LGBT and religious rights (Tuesday 10 July, 2018)
In the first case of its kind, two sides will meet Thursday in court to decide whether a faith-based adoption agency can refuse to work with same-sex couples. The outcome could have surprising implications for families.Dealing with Uninvited Guests: A Preparedness Plan for Home Invasion (Tuesday 10 July, 2018)
It is terrifying to wake up in the middle of the night and realize someone is in your home. It is just as terrifying to hear someone in your home during the day, yes many thefts occur during the day. Always have a contingency plan that is well thought out. It's okay to walk around the house and create scenarios. It's not being paranoid, it's being prepared. Teach your children to do the same and walk thru scenarios with them. Here are some suggestions.When the Signers of the Declaration of Independence Asked a Prophet to Redeem Them (Tuesday 3 July, 2018)
Wilford Woodruff stated the following at the fall general conference in 1877: “Two weeks before I left St. George, the spirits of the dead gathered around me, wanting to know why we did not redeem them…These were the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and they waited on me for two days and two nights…”The Women of the American Revolution (Tuesday 3 July, 2018)
I am certain that you, like me, have never really given much thought to the role women played in bringing about a victorious ending to the brutal and hard fought American Revolutionary War. But without these courageous women, mostly behind the scenes, I am afraid that the end result could have been considerably different.Gateway Arch Museum Opens with Exhibit Featuring Mormon History (Tuesday 3 July, 2018)
When it comes to Latter-day Saints and Missouri in the 1830s, thoughts often go to the infamous 1838 extermination order. A less familiar but more redeeming story, however, is that Latter-day Saints had friends on the other side of the state. St. Louisans defended Latter-day Saints, and the city played a key role in their later migration to Utah. This history, along with many others from the westward expansion of the United States, is now being told at the renovated Gateway Arch Museum in St. Louis.Keeping Your Family Safe During Summer Fun (Tuesday 12 June, 2018)
Now is a time to consider the dangers we all face during the summer months guaranteeing our summer can be a time we reflect on with joy and not regrets. The most serious of the summertime dangers are heat and the sun itself. Here's how you can recognize serious symptoms and treat them before they become an even bigger problem.At ‘Be One’ Celebration, a Call for Optimism and Overcoming Prejudice (Sunday 3 June, 2018)
40th Anniversary Commemoration included deeply moving song, dance and the spoken word. Watch the full video here.Let’s Empower the New Generation (Sunday 3 June, 2018)
We all know young adults who are either falling away from active religious practice or are struggling in some way with moving forward. Within 10 years of adulthood, nearly 60 percent of Christian, 30 percent of Jewish, and 25 percent of Muslim young adults are entering a religious hiatus of some sort. There is an epidemic of relativism and secularism. What's to be done?President Nelson invites youth to enlist in the Lord’s battalion by doing 5 specific things (Sunday 3 June, 2018)
The youth of the Church have the opportunity to "be part of something big, something grand, something majestic," said President Russell M. Nelson, during a special youth devotional on June 3. Here's how.An Interview with the Author: ‘A Global History of Blacks and Mormonism’ (Tuesday 29 May, 2018)
Engaging Mormonism and race is not an issue confined to the past; it is of immediate relevance to Mormon engagements in African and African diaspora communities throughout the world. This conversation can serve as a point of departure for readers/listeners who aspire to teach that “all are alike unto God”—and how it was that Latter-day Saints could ever see it otherwise.The Scent of Mormonism (Tuesday 29 May, 2018)
A thoughtful and well-regarded student of American Catholicism, asked about the scent he had detected during an LDS temple open house. He thought it might have been incense, and wondered whether there was a place for sacred smoke in Mormon temple worship. We reassured the visitor that Mormons don’t use incense in their sacred rituals, and the conversation rapidly transitioned to a practical sort of question: what is the typical scent of Mormonism?What Being Christian in Western Europe Looks Like Today (Tuesday 29 May, 2018)
The majority of Europe’s Christians are non-practicing, but they differ from religiously unaffiliated people in their attitudes toward Muslims and immigrants, views on God, and opinions about religion’s role in society. See the results of a recent PEW study on this group.After Two Years in Venezuelan Prison, Utahn Josh Holt is Finally Released (Sunday 27 May, 2018)
Sitting in the White House Saturday night next to President Donald Trump after a long day of travel, Josh Holt was "overwhelmed with gratitude" for the efforts of all the people that brought him home to U.S. soil.New York Times: What Islamophobic Politicians Can Learn From Mormons (Sunday 27 May, 2018)
NYT: "Republican officials in 49 states have publicly attacked Islam, some even questioning its legitimacy as a religion. The only exception? Utah. In that state, where a majority of residents is Mormon, elected officials seem to have a deep understanding that an attack on the religious freedom of one group is an attack on the religious freedom of everyone."INTERVIEW: New Docu-drama to Explore Personal Stories of Blacks and the Priesthood (Monday 21 May, 2018)
Peter Johnson, the maker of such LDS film favorites as “Mr. Kreuger’s Christmas” and “How Rare A Possession” talks about his current exciting film project: a docu-drama that presents gripping historical and present-day perspectives of the Priesthood for all races and nations. The movie features the true-life conversion story of Ed and Wanda Willis who started their life together in the early 60’s as active Black Panthers.Teaching Our Children to Love and Serve Each Other (Monday 21 May, 2018)
Quarreling and bickering among siblings are painfully common in family life. How can parents prevent contention between their children?LDS Man Cycles 1400 Miles in the Race to Become Nevada’s Next Governor (Monday 21 May, 2018)
In addition to being the parents of four children, Jared and his wife Heather Fisher are the owners of Las Vegas Cyclery and Escape Adventures bike tours. With cycling as his lens on the world, Fisher decided to ride 1400 miles across the state of Nevada in an attempt to better understand the people and the issues he might be tasked to help solve.Join the Proctors for the Royal Egypt Discovery Tour in 2020! (Tuesday 15 May, 2018)
We know this has always been on your bucket list. Egypt is everything you ever dreamed and more! Can you imagine the incredible history of this mysterious and wondrous land? Here is a civilization that seemed to spring into existence out of nowhere and was a key player in world history for thousands of years. Now is the perfect time to explore this ancient land.Is there Evidence of Sunken Cities in Ancient America? (Tuesday 1 May, 2018)
After the great destruction which was recorded in 3 Nephi, the Lord’s voice was heard declaring that the “great city Moroni have I caused to be sunk in the depths of the sea". Some may wonder if there is any evidence that cities were flooded in this manner in the ancient Americas.Church’s New Website and Celebration: Be One (Tuesday 1 May, 2018)
The LDS Church is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 1978 revelation on the priesthood with a new website and a program in the Conference Center. Here's how to get tickets.Most social networks will no longer be available in LDS meetinghouses beginning in May (Tuesday 1 May, 2018)
Access to many social media sites will no longer be available in meetinghouses after a change to the Church's internet configuration in meetinghouses beginning in May.A Little Girl Who Needed An Angel (Tuesday 1 May, 2018)
She looked tough, not like someone who would need an angel.Lesson 19 – The Reign of the Judges (Monday 30 April, 2018)
The reign of the judges in the Old Testament reminds us that "with God, all things are possible," and that the Lord often calls the unlikely (in the eyes of the world) to champion his cause.The Battle Hymn of a Just Parent (Wednesday 25 April, 2018)
Emotions are the number one reason why parents and children don’t act with integrity and justice. Yes, that’s right. Even though my parents weren’t always just, I wasn’t either. In the relationship, none of us were living the way we should have been living. So, how can we endeavor to become a "just" parent?Positive Family Stories Strengthen Children (Wednesday 25 April, 2018)
Sharing what we have learned through life’s experiences is an effective way to connect with and teach our children. But what if your children are young, like mine? Is it too early to begin sharing these stories and memories with them?Through a Gospel Lens: One Psychologist’s 12 Rules for Life (Monday 23 April, 2018)
I recently came across a wonderful book by Jordan B. Peterson, '12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos.' Jordan is a clinical psychologist and I would say, philosopher. The result is a practical, high-reaching set of rules which are useful to explore through the lens of gospel living.The Myth of Invisible Motherhood (Monday 23 April, 2018)
We live in a world that tells us our worth is found in external achievements. It’s in our grade point average, our college degree, how much money we make, or how many likes we got on our last post. It’s natural to try to find a measuring stick for success as a mother. But no one hands out medals for the things we do every day.Why Women Struggle with Pornography Too (And How to Talk with Your Daughter About It) (Monday 23 April, 2018)
“I have daughters, so I’m not worried.” I’ve heard this rationale over and over again as I’ve talked to parents about protecting children from pornography. I only wish it were true that 50% of our children were completely immune to pornography’s pull.Finding Inspiration in the Midst of Anxiety (Sunday 22 April, 2018)
We worry, we dread, we fear. We can’t find a place of quiet. We seem to be deaf to the advice Christ gave his followers: “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” We have a hard time following this advice, however right and wise it is.What Would A Holy Woman Do? (Sunday 22 April, 2018)
Published in 2013 by Deseret Book, a little book by our Prophet’s wife, Sister Wendy Watson Nelson reports on an experiment with several of her friends. Count me in on anything that will help me to apply President Nelson’s counsel at General Conference to increase our spiritual capacity.Key moment in Hurricane Harvey recovery: Houston LDS temple rededicated (Sunday 22 April, 2018)
Shawn Calvert seemed to exhale a bit Sunday after stepping outside the newly rededicated Houston Texas Temple. The low-key rededication ceremony signaled better days ahead for Calvert. For perhaps the first time in nearly eight months, he and legions of other hurricane-weary Mormons living in southeast Texas were catching their breath and looking forward.Embracing Faith When You’re Filled with Fear (Wednesday 11 April, 2018)
President Gordon B. Hinckley said that faith is the antithesis of fear. So how can we turn our back on the fear side, and fully face and embrace the faith side? I have compiled a list of things that may help unblock your view of heaven.Nauvoo, the Beautiful and Malaria Infested: A Discussion with Christopher Blythe (Wednesday 11 April, 2018)
In this latest episode of the LDS Perspectives Podcast, Laura Harris Hales interviews Christopher about important documents from the early Nauvoo period and what they can teach us about the joys and sorrows of that crucial moment in Church History.Apostle Elder Neil L. Andersen shares more insight on call to ‘minister’ (Wednesday 11 April, 2018)
In a recent address at Brigham Young Unversity, Elder Andersen shared more insight about “ministering in a holier way,” as President Nelson described, and gave examples of how different people have ministered to others.What is Your Wayward Child Worth to God? (Tuesday 3 April, 2018)
If the scriptures teach us anything, they teach us that Israel’s God will not let Israel go, despite her bouts of waywardness. The Lord is always reaching out to her. Robert L. Millet surmises rightly, “What is true of a nation is equally true of individuals. Few of us in this life will, through our sins, place ourselves beyond the pale of saving grace.”Illuminate Podcast: Who Needs to Know About My Addiction? (Tuesday 3 April, 2018)
In this latest episode, Geoff Steurer interviews Jeff Ford, licensed marriage and family therapist and co-director of LifeStar of St. George, UT, about the sensitive topic of disclosure. They discuss difficult questions for those recovering from addiction such as: Who needs to know? How much should I tell? What is the best way to go about it?Why Did Nephi Include the Story of the Broken Bow? (Tuesday 3 April, 2018)
During Lehi’s travel through ancient Arabia, his sons needed to slay animals for food from time to time in order for their group to avoid starvation. Nephi reported on one occasion that he went hunting and broke his bow. Although this story may seem rather unremarkable, it may actually be loaded with symbolic importance.How God’s Creatures Can Teach Us About their Creator (Tuesday 27 March, 2018)
The young man had always believed in a God, but it was through his relationships with animals that he came to know something of Him. He believed he could see the hand of a joyous, careful, loving Creator behind the actions of the animals. Seeing it, his love for the animals, and for their Creator, grew together.Beauty for Ashes: Learning From Christ How to Endure (Tuesday 27 March, 2018)
Scott Livingston is currently a Stake President, and many of the recurring concerns that surface as he counsels with individuals and couples led him to write the book 'Beauty for Ashes: Learning from Christ How to Endure Life's Greatest Pains, Sufferings, and Sorrows.' In the latest episode from LDS Perspectives, he discusses some of the lessons he learned as he wrote this book.The Adventure of a Lifetime: South America and Antarctica with the Proctors (Monday 26 March, 2018)
If you want a cruise that is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with more breathtaking moments than you could ever imagine, this excursion to South America and Antarctica with Maurine and Scot Proctor is for you. We are headed to a place you can only go by boat to see, not only Antarctica—the most pristine place on the planet, but also southern Chile and Argentina, a region that is known as Patagonia.What Did the Lord Mean When He Said Moses Would Become “God to Pharaoh”? (Sunday 25 March, 2018)
What did the Lord mean when He said Moses would become “god to Pharaoh”? And how did the symbolism of the plagues undermine the worship of the Egyptian gods? (Supplement to Gospel Doctrine Lesson 13)Church Announces 8 Cities President Nelson Will Visit on Global Tour (Sunday 25 March, 2018)
As announced last month, President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his wife, Wendy, along with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Patricia, will visit Europe, Africa and Asia in April. Here are some of the specific cities in which they will hold meetings.Illuminate Podcast: When You’re Not Finding Hope in Isolation (Sunday 18 March, 2018)
Michelle's online volunteer work took an unexpected turn in late 2011 when search engine data showed the desperate need many LDS women had for help and support because of the addiction of a loved one. In this episode, Geoff Steurer presents his second half of his interview Michelle Linford, the founder and administrator for LDS Hope and Healing.The Trouble with Confidence in Ward Councils (Sunday 18 March, 2018)
One key to success in councils is listening to and even drawing out the views of all participants to see problems and challenges from new angles, adding vital information we may otherwise lack. For some fellow Latter-day Saints in Shanghai, I once illustrated the limitations of a single viewpoint by revealing the secret of a simple magic trick.Further Update on the Lost Tribes of Meridian (Tuesday 13 March, 2018)
We have certainly had fun trying to gather the Lost Tribes of Israel. About 2,000 readers have responded and thousands more have shared in the fun reading about it. I think you will enjoy the reader comments in this brief article, especially some that relate to Russia and South Africa.TV Host Apologizes for anti-Christian Slur (Tuesday 13 March, 2018)
Joy Behar, co-host of ABC’s “The View” placed a private phone call to Vice President Mike Pence apologizing for her anti-Christian slur aimed at him on her television show in February. Then on Tuesday she admitted on air, “I think Vice President Pence is right. I was raised to respect everyone’s religious faith and I fell short of that.”A New Campus Survey Reveals Just How Students Are ‘Unlearning Liberty’ (Tuesday 13 March, 2018)
When presented with a false choice between free speech and inclusivity, they choose the latter.Inviting Healing after Serious Conflict (Wednesday 7 March, 2018)
At the conclusion of the U.S. Civil War, Union general Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was surprised to be chosen to conduct and receive the surrender of Confederate troops. He resolved to conduct a parade of surrender that would in some way invite the beginning of healing from the conflict of brother against brother and family against family.Do You Have the Patience to Build a Masterpiece? (Monday 5 March, 2018)
Raising children is a bit like that huge, old, half-constructed house out in the field. It’s such a slow, drawn-out process sometimes. Some days are hard and tiresome. And most days it appears that nothing is changing or working. But it takes time to build a masterpiece.Elder Renlund Dedicates Barbados for the Preaching of the Gospel, Visits Caribbean Nations (Monday 5 March, 2018)
At storied Gun Hill Signal Station, Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on February 18 dedicated the island nation of Barbados for the preaching of the gospel, concluding a nine-day review of the Church’s Caribbean Area that included stops in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.How children get caught in the clash over LGBT and religious rights (Monday 5 March, 2018)
For decades, faith-based adoption agencies avoided conflict with the LGBT community by serving only married couples. That became impossible when states started legalizing same-sex marriage. "You could see then that adoption was going to be an issue." Beginning in 2006, many faith-based agencies began to close because they were unwilling to serve LGBT couples or unable to operate without state funds. "In the name of tolerance, we're not being tolerated."Illuminate Podcast: Lessons from a Betrayal Trauma Support Group for LDS Women (Sunday 4 March, 2018)
In this episode, Geoff Steurer interviews Michelle Linford, the founder and administrator for LDS Hope and Healing. She talks about patterns of healing she's seen as she's supported and connected with women in recovery from betrayal trauma. In this episode, she share lessons she's learned in both her own personal journey and witnessing the journey of hundreds of others in recovery.What Are We To Make of Jacob’s Apparent Deceitfulness? (Sunday 4 March, 2018)
Why is Jacob so greatly blessed when “the pivotal moments in the scriptural account of [his] life seem to turn on deceit”?Mormon leader shares details on LDS Church finances (Sunday 4 March, 2018)
"Some people occasionally describe today’s church as a powerful and prosperous institution," he said. "This may be true, but the strength of the church cannot be measured merely by the number or beauty of its buildings or by its financial and real estate holdings."Sequel to ‘The Other Side of Heaven’ Will Tell the Next Chapter in John and Jean Groberg’s Story (Wednesday 28 February, 2018)
“Someday I hope we can walk these sands together,” wrote Elder John Groberg to his sweetheart Jean in the 2001 film The Other Side of Heaven. What many may not know is that John and Jean Groberg did indeed get the chance to walk those beaches together and now the just-announced sequel will tell a piece of that story.13 Helpful Hints for Dating After Divorce (Tuesday 27 February, 2018)
I had no idea what I was getting into being in my fifties and back in the dating scene again. I just knew that I wanted that most sacred of human relationships before I died. I was going to do it right this time. Now, looking back, having successfully found exactly what I needed and wanted, here is what I would advise my fellow travelers through the same valley of single-hood.Four LDS Missionaries Injured in Truck Crash in Spain (Tuesday 27 February, 2018)
Four LDS Missionaries and their investigator, who was at the wheel, suffered injuries after colliding with a truck on Monday night in Spain, according to a spokesperson for the LDS Church.The Atlantic on “Why Romney is Running for Senate” (Tuesday 20 February, 2018)
The former Republican presidential nominee extolled Utah's values as a better option for his party, and his country, as he announced his bid for Senate.Unraveling the Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls (Tuesday 20 February, 2018)
In this episode, PhD student Joshua Matson visits with Laura Harris Hales about the Dead Sea Scrolls; what questions they answer and what questions still remain.Alleviating Your Family’s Restlessness During Times of Disaster (Tuesday 20 February, 2018)
During a time of stress it is so important to have some ideas ready to help alleviate times of boredom and sometimes fear. Carefully ready thru the suggestions below and prepare now by purchasing items you will need. All of these will be great in a hotel room or evacuation center. You may even be able to help other families survive their evacuation experience.“My Deceased Father Loves My Stepfather” (Wednesday 14 February, 2018)
My father passed away while I was serving a full time mission. When I returned home, the transition back into living for myself caused me to go through a bit of a mourning process. Not for my father that died, no, the Lord had already healed me from that. This mourning happened every time my mother left on a date.The Parable of the Bathtub: Avoiding Spiritual Desensitization (Wednesday 14 February, 2018)
One of the greatest dangers we face in these high tech latter days is the threat of becoming desensitized to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit. It is crucial that we understand and recognize areas where we may already have a toe or foot in spiritually dangerous waters.How the White House Proposal on Immigration Reform Squares with the Church’s Official Statement (Tuesday 13 February, 2018)
It is good to know that the White House and the LDS Church are both in favor of securing protections for Dreamers – something 78% of Americans voters also support, but we should also consider how the Church’s statement addresses the rest of the White House framework.Walking Through Walls and War Zones: Disruptions (Tuesday 6 February, 2018)
Disruption is inevitable. It is an essential part of the mortal experience—the precursor to our stretching beyond our inclinations and into our ideals, though it can do the opposite and lead us to shrink. As Elder Neal A. Maxwell said, reflecting on his cancer, “I have learned that not shrinking is more important than surviving.”Understanding Our Transgender Moment (Tuesday 6 February, 2018)
As new gender ideologies are promoted throughout America, the lies will impact not only those who suffer from gender dysphoria, but all children who need to mature in their self-understanding as a boy or girl, man or woman, a potential husband or wife, father or mother.Was Noah’s Ark Designed As a Floating Temple? (Sunday 28 January, 2018)
In the Bible, Noah’s ark is described as a huge, rectangular box with three floors and a roof, which makes it sound more like a building than a boat. Was Noah’s ark designed as a floating “temple”? (Gospel Doctrine Lesson 6A)Your Hardest Family Question: My sister is a danger to my family (Thursday 25 January, 2018)
I have tried to speak to my parents about my concerns for her mental illness, but my mother dismisses her behavior. I fear for my siblings still at home, and I fear for my husband and children when we are with her, but I feel utterly powerless to do anything about it.Could Joseph Smith Have Drawn On Ancient Manuscripts When He Translated the Story of Enoch? (Thursday 25 January, 2018)
Some say that Joseph Smith drew on ancient stories about Enoch not found in the Bible as he translated the chapters on Enoch in Moses 6-7. How similar are the stories of Enoch in ancient accounts to modern scripture? And could Joseph Smith have been aware of them?How Does the Book of Moses Illustrate the Consequences of Keeping and Breaking Temple Covenants? (Tuesday 23 January, 2018)
Some people believe that the basic teachings and covenants available today in LDS temple ordinances were not revealed to Joseph Smith until he got to Nauvoo. Others say he knew a great deal about temple matters long before that time. What could the Prophet have learned about temple covenants as he translated Moses 5-8 in 1830-31? (Gospel Doctrine Lesson 5B)Christianity Gets a Faith Lift… from Harvard (Tuesday 23 January, 2018)
After years of hearing the same dire predictions, even churchgoers probably assumed the country's faith had dwindled. Like us, you've seen the headlines about declining church attendance or the millennials' rejection of faith and just assumed the stories were true. Not so fast, says Harvard University.What Was the Sword of Laban Like? (Tuesday 23 January, 2018)
The sword of Laban is one of the most iconic objects in the Book of Mormon. It was passed down from generation to generation and was apparently still being used in battle even during the time of King Benjamin. Yet the Book of Mormon does not give much information about how the sword looked.On the New York Times Obituary for President Monson (Wednesday 10 January, 2018)
As an American, I am deeply disappointed by the missed opportunity this obituary represents. As a Latter-day Saint, I found my faith oddly affirmed by the piece. Here's why.How to Participate in the Funeral Services for President Monson (Wednesday 10 January, 2018)
Whether you live in the Salt Lake area and plan to attend in person, or would like to tune in to the funeral for President Thomas S. Monson in some other way, here is the information you'll need to participate.Advocates for Abstinence Education Have Something to Celebrate (Wednesday 10 January, 2018)
For every parent who’s tried to tell their teenage kids that “everyone’s not doing it,” here’s proof! According to the CDC’s new nationwide report, the number of high school students who said they’ve ever had sex dropped from 47 percent in 2005 to 41 percent in 2015.Treating Misbehavior with Compassion and Teaching (Monday 8 January, 2018)
Picture this: A four-year-old is playing with her 6-year-old sister and her sister’s friend. Can you already see what is going to happen? At some point, the younger sister became frustrated—probably from being excluded or mocked. The young one became angry and scratched the arm of the neighbor child. Screaming began and Mom ran to the mayhem.What Can the Architecture of Israelite Temples Teach Us About Creation and the Garden of Eden? (Monday 8 January, 2018)
In reading the description of the seven days of Creation and the layout of the Garden of Eden, there seems to be more than meets the eye. What insights can be gained about these things from understanding the architecture of the Israelite temples?Why Would God Choose an Uneducated Man to Translate the Book of Mormon? (Monday 8 January, 2018)
No matter how many years (or seasons) Joseph attended school, or how helpful his supplemental educational opportunities may have been, or how quick he was as a learner, or how sharp his memory, or how creative his imagination—it doesn’t change the fact that he and those around him, both friend and foe, described him as relatively unlearned. So, why would the Lord choose him as a translator?President Monson Funeral Arrangements Announced (Wednesday 3 January, 2018)
Funeral services for President Thomas S. Monson, leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be held in the Conference Center on Temple Square Friday, January 12, 2018, at 12:00 p.m. MST. Get more details here.Statements from the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve on the Passing of President Thomas S. Monson (Wednesday 3 January, 2018)
“President Thomas S. Monson was a mighty Prophet of God and we are honored to have served by his side these past 10 years." Read the full statement from President Eyring and President Uchtdorf here. Additionally, the Quorum of the Twelve pay tribute to their beloved friend in a separate statement.President Thomas S. Monson Dies at Age 90 (Wednesday 3 January, 2018)
With tender feelings we announce that Thomas S. Monson, president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died Tuesday evening at 10:01 pm in his home in Salt Lake City. He was with family at the time of his passing. He died at age 90 from causes incident to age.Why Is David Whitmer’s Witness of the Book of Mormon So Compelling? (Monday 1 January, 2018)
After traveling nearly 100 miles to reach Harmony, Pennsylvania, David Whitmer met Joseph Smith for the first time at the end of May 1829. David had received word from Oliver Cowdery that Joseph had an ancient record, that he had begun translating it, and that harassment from locals in Harmony was deterring their progress.Make Your Dreams Come True with a Magnificent Norwegian Fjords Cruise! (Wednesday 20 December, 2017)
Let’s face it, Norway is blessed to be one of the most beautiful countries (if not the most beautiful) on this amazing planet. And isn't Norway on your bucket list? It is on ours! Come with us to cruise the stunning fjords in August 2018. Just take a look!Discover China with the Proctors in 2018 (Tuesday 19 December, 2017)
With our partners in China we have designed an out-of-the-ordinary experience for your journey to China, including the opportunity to trek off the beaten path to a remote section of the Great Wall and help restore the Wall by adding your own brick. That's just the beginning! We have also designed an amazing add-on tour at the end to go the Yellow Mountains, one of the most stunning and breathtaking landscapes on planet earth--and for a bargain price! Now is a great time to go to China. Come and see.“Unto Us This Day”: Remembering the Nephites at Christmas (Sunday 17 December, 2017)
Most Christmas stories center around the blessed events in Bethlehem, and the birth of the Christ child. But there were also believers in the New World, in ancient America, who were anxiously awaiting a sign in the heavens that would tell them that Jesus was born, and it would literally save their lives.Tonight’s Family Home Evening: A Christmas Story in Two Nations (Sunday 17 December, 2017)
You may already have plans for a Christmas-themed Family Home Evening tonight. Here is the perfect way to bring it to a wonderful, Christ-centered conclusion.Why Meridian Needs Your Voluntary Subscription (Wednesday 13 December, 2017)
Meridian has nearly completed another year of publishing thousands of wonderful, powerful and moving articles, and now we need your help. Truly. Come and find out why.The Gifts We Sometimes Forget We Are Getting at Christmastime (Tuesday 5 December, 2017)
For all of us, Christmas is associated with gifts and giving. Most of us have spent and will spend countless hours making and buying gifts for others. But there are gifts we receive again and again that we sometimes don't recognize. These gifts should set the example for how we give gifts to others.An Introduction to Higher Biblical Criticism with Philip Barlow (Tuesday 5 December, 2017)
On this episode, Philip Marlow discusses with Russell Stevenson factors in the nineteenth century that changed how scholars interpreted the Bible, including the introduction of historical criticism.LDS Church unveils charity vending machines on Temple Square (Thursday 30 November, 2017)
The LDS Church is offering a completely new idea in vending machines.Have you Ever Flipped Gratitude Inside Out? (Monday 20 November, 2017)
Here’s a way to make Thanksgiving even more meaningful.Here’s why non-evangelicals should pay attention to evangelical politics (Monday 20 November, 2017)
"I became convinced that the only way for people to understand evangelicals is to understand their history." Read a recent interview with author Frances FitzGerald about why non-evangelicals should care about the politics of this group that makes up a fifth of the country.What’s it like to be a Mormon in the largest Muslim nation? (Monday 20 November, 2017)
Mormonism is barely a speck of paint on the tableau of faith in Indonesia, the most populous Muslim nation on the planet. The LDS Church has about 7,300 members in a population that tops 260 million. But for second-generation Mormon Jemmy Mongan, an LDS public affairs official in Jakarta, that minuscule presence is his whole world.Elder M. Russell Ballard addresses difficult questions on LGBTQ issues, suicide, pornography at BYU devotional (Tuesday 14 November, 2017)
In addressing the questions regarding revelation, suicide, pornography, missionary work, kindness and same-sex attraction, Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared candid and timely advice to students at Brigham Young University on Tuesday, Nov. 14, during a campus devotional.A Joseph Smith Historian on the Failure of the Bank in Kirtland (Tuesday 14 November, 2017)
On this episode of the LDS Perspectives Podcast, Russell Stevenson interviews Elizabeth Kuehn, a Joseph Smith Papers historian and documentary editor, about one of the lasting blemishes on the Mormon Kirtland experience – the failure of the Kirtland Safety Society Bank.LDS Young Men leaders interrupt meeting to save girls in submerged car (Tuesday 14 November, 2017)
They were discussing a variety of issues when one of the leaders, who is an on-call volunteer for the Madison Fire Department, interrupted the speaker. “He said he just got a notification that there was something going on down the road...he made it sound like someone was pinned underneath a car and said we could get there faster than the ambulance.” Everyone in the group jumped from their seats and ran to their vehicles.Travel with the Proctors to the Beginning of Time: Egypt! (Wednesday 1 November, 2017)
We know Egypt has always been on your bucket list. Can you imagine the history of this mysterious and wondrous land? Now is the perfect time to explore this ancient land and see its most important sites on a full 7-day-in-country tour of one of the most sought out locations in the world.Dedication of Provo MTC Marks New Era of Missionary Work, President Eyring Says (Wednesday 18 October, 2017)
“We speak sometimes of hastening His work as if we can change His time schedule by our effort,” said President Eyring, moments before offering a prayer of dedication on the new MTC facilities in Provo. “My guess is that we can neither delay nor accelerate His plan. But we can, if we listen to His Spirit, play our part to make His called messengers more joyful and more effective..."Sunday School General President: ‘How can I receive more revelation in my life?’ (Wednesday 18 October, 2017)
One of the ways we can enhance our personal revelation is to write down and record spiritual insights and impressions when they come. When we do so, we show the Lord we value His counsel and are ready for more.Wall Street Journal Praises Studio C for its “Super-scrubbed Brand of Clean Humor” (Wednesday 18 October, 2017)
Wall Street Journal: "Studio C has achieved sizable popularity on the internet, despite—or perhaps because of—its super-scrubbed brand of clean humor, such as a skit about a soccer goalie named Scott Sterling who accidentally, and agonizingly, blocks shots with his face."Pushing Past a Prophet (Wednesday 27 September, 2017)
How one woman learned about temples and prophets in a split second.Book of Mormon manuscript an extraordinary treasure, experts say (Friday 22 September, 2017)
The printer's manuscript of the Book of Mormon was on display in Utah for the first time in history Thursday, and people lined up at the LDS Church History Library to see it.Your Hardest Family Question: My son-in-law embarrasses our daughter and grandchildren (Thursday 21 September, 2017)
I have a son-in-law who is a great father and husband, but he does something that makes the rest of the family terribly uncomfortable. When he’s in mixed company, he’ll openly argue with his wife and children.BYU selling caffeinated soft drinks on campus (Thursday 21 September, 2017)
As of now, and for the first time since the 1950's, you can buy a caffeinated Coca Cola on the BYU campus.Faith Key to Rebounding from Refugee Status, Apostle Says (Wednesday 13 September, 2017)
Elder Holland and Sharon Eubank speak at Windsor Conference about helping Yazidis.Lest We Forget: The Vision of Educating Young People (Wednesday 6 September, 2017)
Is our current educational plan adequate for the future our children will face? How can we know what they will need when the future is uncertain? What is most important?LDS Church Cautioning Members, Missionaries as Hurricane Irma Hits Caribbean (Wednesday 6 September, 2017)
For the second time in less than three weeks, the LDS Church is taking steps to help its members and missionaries prepare for a hurricane of historic proportions.Pressing the Pause Button to Serve a Mission (Wednesday 6 September, 2017)
What actually happens when missionaries set aside their current activities.President Uchtdorf Visits Texas in Hurricane Harvey Aftermath (Sunday 3 September, 2017)
Bishop Caussé and other leaders lend support.Missionary Moment: Caught in a Labor Daze (Sunday 3 September, 2017)
Through the month of August, it has been easy for us to get discouraged at the lack of visible progress on the missionary front. Not many visitors coming to church. Not many people to teach. Not many people to find. Well, those days are now over.Labor Day: The Perfect Time For Health (Sunday 3 September, 2017)
Although we call it “Labor Day” referring to U.S. workers and honoring their right to fair labor laws that balance the needs for work, rest and safe working conditions, the word “labor” has many applications that are well worth spending a moment on this Labor Day.Captain Moroni Epic Coming to Hollywood? (Thursday 31 August, 2017)
Millions of Book of Mormon readers, inspired by the message of heroism and morality in times of war found in the Book of Alma, have likely had the same thought: “This would make an amazing movie.” Now, it may actually happen.LDS Church History Department Acquires New Fragments of Original Book of Mormon Manuscript (Wednesday 30 August, 2017)
The Book of Mormon printer’s manuscript has been published virtually in its entirety, but what LDS historians consider the “crown jewel” of the book’s origin — the original manuscript handwritten as Joseph Smith dictated to scribes his translation of the Nephite record preserved on gold plates — exists only in fragmentary form. Now, the history department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the acquisition within the past two months of yet more fragments from that priceless document.Joseph’s Study of Hebrew and the Book of Abraham with Matthew J. Grey (Wednesday 30 August, 2017)
Join Laura Harris Hales as she discusses with Matthew Grey the influence of Joseph's Hebrew study on his subsequent teachings and the vital piece of the Book of Abraham translation puzzle this new research provides.When You’re Caught in the Conflict Between Science and Religion (Tuesday 22 August, 2017)
Listen in as Laura Harris Hales of the LDS Perspectives Podcast and Steven Peck share a blunt discussion about the harmful effect teaching a tension between science and religion can have on testimonies. Both science and religion can work together in Steven’s model of theology to build faith.Numerous Supreme Court Briefs Filed in Support of Creative Professionals Working According to their Faith (Tuesday 22 August, 2017)
The U.S. Supreme Court has received numerous friend-of-the-court briefs in support of the freedom of a Washington state floral artist—and, by extension, other creative professionals—to decline to create artistic expression and participate in events with which they disagree.Terrorism: Acknowledging the Threat, Minimizing the Fear (Tuesday 22 August, 2017)
Do you know what to do should a terrorist attack occur? Does your family know what to do?Who was the True Author of the Lectures on Faith? (Tuesday 11 July, 2017)
In this latest episode of the LDS Perspectives Podcast, join Laura Harris Hales as she discusses with Noel Reynolds the mystery of the authorship of the Lectures on Faith and what we can learn from that moment in Mormon history.The Foreknowledge, Power and Love of God (Tuesday 11 July, 2017)
God showers us with miracles. If we are observant, we can recognize his fore-knowledge of, power in behalf of and love for us. Consider these three miracle stories by anonymous contributors.We’re Havin’ a Heat Wave: 23 Things to Do About It (Tuesday 11 July, 2017)
There are things we can do to be more comfortable during a heat wave whether or not we have power. Following are a few steps you can take to help a summer power outage or heat wave a little more bearable and to ensure your safety as the temperatures rise.Supreme Court Rules for Church in High-profile Religious Freedom Case (Monday 26 June, 2017)
The state of Missouri went too far in refusing to resurface a religiously affiliated preschool's playground, the Supreme Court ruled Monday, in a case that some legal observers said didn't live up to its hype in addressing a church's access to public funding.Public Open House to Begin at Idaho Falls Idaho Temple (Monday 17 April, 2017)
Interior renovations complete on World War II-era house of worship.Homelessness: Beyond the ‘Where’ (Wednesday 12 April, 2017)
Homelessness is not a “thing” for us to deal with. It is about helping people. Just as a discussion on education should begin by acknowledging each child as a unique individual with unique needs – our conversation about homelessness must also begin with a focus on the plight of the person on the street.Get Out From Under the Table (Wednesday 12 April, 2017)
Sometimes life’s best lessons are learned in the nursery.Utah Mormon Running for President of Kenya (Monday 10 April, 2017)
Amram Musungu walked dozens of miles every day to attend school in Hamuyundi, Kenya. He slept on banana leaves on the floor of his village hut. And he didn't own a pair of shoes until he was 15 years old. But that didn't stop him from changing his future.This Easter, a Focus on Principles of Peace from the Prince of Peace (Thursday 30 March, 2017)
Church’s 2017 Easter initiative is an invitation to find peace through Christ.Down Syndrome and the Worth of Life (Wednesday 22 March, 2017)
Sadly, people with Down syndrome have essentially become extinct across much of Europe because woman abort life after discovering their baby has Down syndrome. We strip a child from their God-given potential when we, as a society, accept abortion as “health care.”How Much Evidence is There of God? (Wednesday 22 March, 2017)
Have you found His signature everywhere that it exists?LDS Church to Create New BYU Pathway Global Education Program (Tuesday 7 February, 2017)
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the creation of a global higher-education organization, BYU–Pathway Worldwide. The institution will have responsibility for all online certificate and degree programs offered by the Church Educational System.To Eat or Not To Eat: A Guide to Food Safety After a Power Outage (Tuesday 7 February, 2017)
Food in a full freezer will stay frozen about two days. Food in a freezer that is only half full may stay frozen only one day. It's facts like these that will help you know what to keep and what to toss after a power outage.Where Can You Best Learn about God’s Plan of Salvation? (Tuesday 7 February, 2017)
King Lamoni taught that God had sent His people angelic messengers so that “the plan of salvation might be made known unto them as well as unto future generations” (Alma 24:14). This prophecy concerning future generations learning of the Plan of Salvation has been meaningfully fulfilled in the preservation and publication of the Book of Mormon.Faithfully Engaging the Immigration Debate in the Age of Trump (Thursday 2 February, 2017)
Catholic, Jewish and Mormon leaders have long been outspoken on immigration policy reform, advocating for a path to legal status for undocumented Americans sometimes in spite of disagreements with the people in their pews.Remembering the Man Who Carved the Nauvoo Temple Oxen (Sunday 29 January, 2017)
When my mom passed away, The Friend magazine happened to be running a story about John Carling, who Brigham Young had asked to carve the pattern for the 12 oxen that held up the font in the Nauvoo Temple. At Mom’s burial in the Fillmore cemetery, one of her granddaughters had the magazine with her and wanted to find John’s gravestone.A Partner in the Cause of Peace (Sunday 29 January, 2017)
Countries with more religious freedom have more peace. And countries with less religious freedom have less peace. So say a number of studies. This might seem counterintuitive.LDS Church Issues Statement after Trump Orders Ban on Refugees (Sunday 29 January, 2017)
Amid the controversy swirling around President Trump's executive order banning refugees from seven Muslim countries, the LDS Church issued a statement late Saturday night urging solutions that relieve refugee suffering.Why Is Lehi Depicted as Being Similar to Moses? (Thursday 26 January, 2017)
Throughout 1 Nephi, and perhaps most clearly in the account of Lehi’s farewell speech to his family, Lehi is depicted as being like the prophet Moses. The fact that Nephi portrays his father as a Moses figure demonstrates that Nephi was in touch with ancient Israelite traditions that were popular in Jerusalem at the time.LDS Church Provides Safe Place for Muslims to Pray (Sunday 22 January, 2017)
After arson destroyed a mosque in Bellevue, Washington, a local stake offered use of a large classroom so members of the Islamic Center of Eastside could have a place to pray until they find a new space.Missionaries Participate in New Orleans Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebrations (Monday 16 January, 2017)
Missionaries from the Louisiana Baton Rouge Mission participated in a memorial service and marched in the New Orleans Annual Martin Luther King, Jr Day Parade.Two Mormon Apostles to Attend 2017 US Presidential Inauguration (Sunday 15 January, 2017)
Inauguration a time to reaffirm enduring principles that have sustained the US, Elder Christofferson says.Religious Freedom Advocates are Divided over How to Address LGBT Rights (Thursday 12 January, 2017)
Major players in the ongoing battle over religious freedom and LGBT rights will meet at Yale University this weekend. They'll discuss the current state of conscience rights and LGBT protections and debate what legislation is needed to balance those competing interests.The Incredible Power of One (Monday 9 January, 2017)
My dear friend and next-door neighbor, Ellen Burt, died after a brutal 6-month battle with cancer. The day after her funeral, her husband, Jerry, brought me Ellen’s two wheelchairs, saying he figured I could use them in India. I was thrilled to get them and thanked him profusely.Millions Shall Know Brother Joseph Again: New book of Joseph Smith Quotes (Monday 9 January, 2017)
Our world is awash in the need for love, kindness, forgiveness, empathy, understanding, and Christ-like living. Joseph Smith, under the tutorial direction of Heavenly beings, became one of the brightest lights to ever grace the earth. He spoke with wisdom, insight, and grace on many topics that are becoming increasingly relevant for our world today.Of Fantasy and Faith: LDS Artist James C. Christensen Dies at 74 (Monday 9 January, 2017)
Wise fools and fish on leashes. Dragons and dwarves. Boats and beetles. Flying pigs and goblin princesses. The imaginative images of myths, fables and fantasies depicted by James C. Christensen will live on in myriad mediums, despite the death of the artist recognized for his works of fantasy and faith.Inspiration for Actually Improving Your Health This Year (Sunday 8 January, 2017)
If you are struggling with getting 2017 kicked off in a healthy way, here’s hope, three easy motivations and inspiring resources to help you say good-bye to holiday indulging immediately.6 Alarming Findings in House Panel’s Planned Parenthood Probe (Sunday 8 January, 2017)
Planned Parenthood affiliates profited by transferring parts of aborted babies to outside organizations in violation of the law, a special House panel has concluded after a yearlong investigation.Lesson of 2016: BYU Will Continue to be Targeted for Claims of Conscience (Monday 26 December, 2016)
It’s hard to know just how much effect the pressure from LGBT activists had on the October decision of the Big 12 Athletic Conference to not expand its membership to include two additional teams, including Brigham Young University. What 2016 unfortunately showed Mormons is that the BYU will continue be to targeted when it comes to making constitutionally protected claims of conscience in the public square (and NCAA playing field).Discovering the Word of Wisdom: A Key to Success in the New Year (Monday 26 December, 2016)
If every day can be a fresh start, the new year is a double fresh start for all of us. Making improvements to our diet is one of the best ways to enjoy a fresh start. Here are some inspiration to get you started.Essays on Mormon History Find New Visibility in Official App, Sunday School (Monday 26 December, 2016)
Most Mormons haven't read the 11 clear-eyed essays published by their church on 11 complex topics in the faith's history and doctrine, like polygamy and the differing versions of the First Vision. Many haven't even heard about them, but that's about to change, beginning in January with additions to the Sunday School lessons in 20,000 congregations in North and South America.Seven Patterns of Prayer from the Prophet Joseph (Thursday 22 December, 2016)
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught us many things including powerful patterns of prayer that can help us break through to the heavens and obtain answers from the Lord for us and our families.Mormon Tabernacle Choir to Sing at US Presidential Inauguration (Thursday 22 December, 2016)
Will be seventh appearance at an inauguration.Joseph Fielding’s Spiritual Legacy in Britain (Tuesday 20 December, 2016)
Joseph, Mary and Mercy Fielding came from a rich spiritual family. Their parents - John Fielding (1759-1836) and Rachel (1767-1828) - were both born, christened and married in Halifax, Yorkshire. Their sister Ann Fielding (Matthews) wrote a lengthy article about their mother in the Wesleyan Methodist magazine. Here are several excerpt from that article.Resources for 2017 Mutual Theme Now Online (Tuesday 20 December, 2016)
This year’s theme is James 1:5–6: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.” Here are materials to use.Words that Don’t Mean What they Used To (Tuesday 20 December, 2016)
I refuse to rehash this circus we’ve experienced, but find it notable to slay some of the words that have contributed to our sideways talk. Either get rid of the words or find a common definition so we can actually talk to each other in a meaningful way.Your Hardest Family Question: My new husband isn’t interested in sexual intimacy (Thursday 15 December, 2016)
After months of marriage, my husband and I have not shared complete marital intimacy. Granted, we are an older couple. Eventually I realized that he has erectile dysfunction. He has neither desire nor intention of treating it. Am I doomed to live in a sexless marriage?LDS Church gifts $1 million to Mormon studies at USU just as professor moves to BYU for a year (Thursday 15 December, 2016)
Guess what it would take to keep Utah State's only full-time Mormon studies professor. Would you believe $1 million? How about $3 million?CNN: Did Donald Trump need an apology from Mitt Romney? (Thursday 15 December, 2016)
As President-elect Donald Trump considered Mitt Romney for secretary of state, Trump wanted one thing Romney wouldn't give him: an apology.Washington Post: Why the Political World Needs More Mitt Romneys (Wednesday 14 December, 2016)
Conventional wisdom says the 2012 GOP presidential nominee lost his dignity by begging for a job in the Trump administration. I see it a different way.Photographing the Holy City (Wednesday 14 December, 2016)
How do you capture the ancient nature of Jerusalem? Today’s city boasts a million population (greater Jerusalem) and modern structures and buildings that just don’t bespeak the feeling of ancient. So, how do you look into the past?George Washington was Right about Moving On (Sunday 4 December, 2016)
Last week I stood at Mount Vernon and realized the many times Washington taught the nation, how to say goodbye, and where America’s power lies and how to truly lead.Discovering the Word of Wisdom: God Ordained Grain as the Staff of Life (Monday 28 November, 2016)
Understanding the foods ordained by God in verses 10–11 of D&C 89 is helpful as we turn to verses 14–17 which describe the role of grains in the human diet. Since God has already told us that wholesome grains are ordained for our use, what additional point is He trying to make in the following verse?The Quest for a Common Moral Framework (Monday 14 November, 2016)
Can a society of diverse religious, political and philosophical opinions agree on the fundamentals of right and wrong?Family Research Council Launches New Website Promoting Military Religious Freedom (Monday 14 November, 2016)
Family Research Council, in addition to a coalition of partner organizations, announces the launch of their newly-updated website, militaryfreedom.org, a resource on all topics related to military religious freedom. The website includes resources on how you can help.Discovering the Word of Wisdom: Are Fish Ordained by God? (Monday 14 November, 2016)
The Lord mentions an appropriate use for beasts and fowls and wild animals, but what about reptiles, insects, and fish? Most of us have no desire to consume insects or reptiles, but many of us love fish. So, what does the Word of Wisdom say about it?After All is Said and Done – What Gets Done? (Sunday 6 November, 2016)
We are mercifully coming to the end of an election cycle filled with white-hot, red-meat rhetoric relentlessly spewed by pundits across the political spectrum until they were blue in the face. It is time to return to what matters most for our nation and for our communities.To Remember and To Honor (Sunday 6 November, 2016)
Today is Election Eve for the most unusual Presidential election the United States has ever seen. It is also the week we celebrate Veterans Day. We can strengthen our nation by strengthening our families as we learn more about our Veterans and honoring them now. Here are 5 Family Home Evening ideas for families of all ages to help and guide us in these troubling times.Mormons Determined to Give White House to Clinton, and Supreme Court to Left (Wednesday 26 October, 2016)
The state of Utah is historically a solid red state, its heavily Mormon population identifying best with the pro-Christian, pro-life, limited government and spending philosophies of the Republican party. This election year, however, the voters of the state of Utah appear to be enamored of the idea of a protest vote.New Law Turns Pro-Life Centers into Abortion-Referral Agencies (Wednesday 26 October, 2016)
On October 14, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a California statute that forces pro-life pregnancy resource centers (PRCs) to recommend abortions. The ruling allowed the state to enforce this unjust law.Remembering Where the Keys Are (Wednesday 26 October, 2016)
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I love piano music. Don’t we all? And when a gifted musician plays a beautiful piece, I’m always impressed by how much they seem at one with the instrument. Sometimes they don’t even look at the keys; they just know where they are. This astounds me, as one of those piano students who struggled to match up the notes on the sheet music to the notes under my fingers. (I remember the sweet, elderly sister in Logan, Utah, who tried to teach me piano and finally leaned over and said, “Honey, wouldn’t you like to try tap?” It was as if she were thinking, “If you have to do something just to fill your time, couldn’t you pick something else?” Ha—it still amuses me.)
But I did learn another keyboard, and it’s one most of us know by heart: the …
The Power of Kitchen-Table Conversations (Wednesday 19 October, 2016)
The solution to any problem begins when someone says, “Let’s talk.” Many of the greatest moments in our nation’s history began not in the marbled halls of a government building, but in conversations around a kitchen table.Protecting Religious Freedom a ‘Provocative’ Challenge (Wednesday 19 October, 2016)
In his symposium-opening remarks, the German-born Professor Bielefeldt called freedom of religion “a most fascinating task.” Some in academic circles have dismissed it as “an impossibility.” Not true, said the professor — but it is a “highly provocative” issue for governments, religious communities and societies.Why Did Jesus Allude to the Priestly Blessing in Numbers 6? (Tuesday 18 October, 2016)
In 3 Nephi 19, the record recounts a remarkable experience that the people had with Jesus Christ as He prayed with and blessed them. The description of what Jesus did when He blessed those gathered parallels certain words in the “Priestly Blessing” that God commanded Aaron, the high priest, to pronounce upon the people of Israel in Numbers 6:23–27.Utahn Pleads Guilty to Fraud Scheme, Impersonating LDS Officials (Tuesday 18 October, 2016)
A once lauded Utah County businessman has pleaded guilty in two separate fraud schemes, including one where he impersonated top LDS officials to lure investors.UNESCO Calls Israel ‘Occupying Power’ and Rewrites Jewish History (Monday 17 October, 2016)
This week, UNESCO doubled down on its efforts to appease Palestinian complaints by adopting a resolution that condemns Israel on its policies regarding Jerusalem and deliberately downplays Jewish history with the Temple Mount and the Western Wall.LDS Perspectives: Millennials and the Book of Mormon (Monday 17 October, 2016)
This is the first podcast in the LDS Perspectives' Young Scholars Series. In these episodes, listeners are introduced to young scholars who are presenting scholarship that belies their years and formal educational training. This week Blake Dalton interviews Neal Rappleye.Discovering the Word of Wisdom: Three Foods Ordained by God (Monday 17 October, 2016)
In verses 10–17 of Section 89, the Lord describes the foods He prepared for our use. Of all the ways He could have introduced these foods to us, He chose to introduce them by teaching a profound doctrine: these foods were specifically ordained for our use by our Savior.College Political Correctness–Free Exchange of Ideas at Risk (Wednesday 5 October, 2016)
There is no barbed wire around our campuses, nor armed guards keeping unwelcome ideas out. So there is no “iron curtain.” But there is a curtain, and it has its effect.Hope For Frustrated Families Everywhere (Wednesday 5 October, 2016)
Sometimes, no matter how diligently parents try to teach their children and unify their families, they are met with opposition. But there is hope!Why Did Jesus Deliver a Version of the Sermon on the Mount at the Temple in Bountiful? (Wednesday 5 October, 2016)
During Christ’s visit in the Book of Mormon, he presented teachings that closely resemble what he taught in the Sermon on the Mount, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. Some have argued that the similarities between the Sermon on the Mount and the “Sermon at the Temple” in Bountiful are evidence that Joseph Smith simply plagiarized from the Bible.Sexuality is Part of Your Divine Nature (Monday 3 October, 2016)
Many women struggle with the sexual relationship in their marriages. They don't see sexuality as part of their divine identity, and struggle to fully embrace and develop that aspect of their marriage relationship.LDS Perspectives Podcast: LDS Artwork Revisited (Monday 3 October, 2016)
Russell Stevenson and Anthony Sweat discuss how artists have helped shape perceptions of LDS scriptures and historical events over the past seventy years — from Arnold Friberg to South Park.LDS Church Responds to Leaked Videos of Briefings for Mormon Apostles (Monday 3 October, 2016)
The LDS Church and a former George W. Bush Cabinet member responded Sunday afternoon to the unauthorized leak of 15 videos of briefings provided to the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.Public Invited to Tour First Mormon Temple in Connecticut (Tuesday 27 September, 2016)
The public is invited to tour the newly completed Hartford Connecticut Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the first Mormon temple in the Constitution State.What Caused the Darkness and Destruction in the 34th Year? (Tuesday 27 September, 2016)
In the thirty and fourth year, Mormon carefully documented “a great and terrible tempest … terrible thunder … exceedingly sharp lightnings” and “thick darkness,” even a “vapor of darkness” which could be felt, and prevented the lighting of fire. This had been predicted in detail by prophets such as Nephi son of Lehi, Zenos, and Samuel the Lamanite.New Podcast Features Ordinary Mormons Having Extraordinary Conversations (Thursday 22 September, 2016)
Introducing the podcast that enables the curious and the serious learner to multi-task their way to greater knowledge and understanding of the Gospel. We hope to offer a place for mainstream members to learn more context about history, seek more depth to doctrine, and gain more support with cultural challenges. Click here to listen to the first episode.For Dear Ones With Cancer: 10 Simple Ways To Serve (Sunday 18 September, 2016)
Is a dear one in your circle battling cancer or a serious illness? Here are ten loving ways to serve both them and their caregivers.Utah Ranked Happiest State in America (Sunday 18 September, 2016)
WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 28 key metrics, ranging from emotional health to income levels to sports participation rates to rank the happiest states in America. Utah came out on top, read more to find out why.The Hazards of a Home Near Sodom (Tuesday 13 September, 2016)
First Lot pitched his tent toward Sodom, and the next thing he did was move on in.How to Help Your Children Keep Their Standards When They Are Away From Home (Wednesday 7 September, 2016)
Parents painstakingly teach morals, principles, values and good judgment to their growing children in hopes that their virtues will be protected and their standards upheld throughout their lives. Yet, day after day youth are tested in social situations. How can we help them pass the test?Are Your Talents Tripping You Up? (Wednesday 7 September, 2016)
Can you have a little too much of a good thing?What Real Families and French Cooking Have in Common (Tuesday 6 September, 2016)
We’ve all got a family in some form or another, right? What’s yours like? Calm? Relaxing? No trouble communicating? No trouble sharing? Family vacations the stuff of legends? Mine neither. Here's why that's ok.Mormon Leaders Visit Flood-Ravaged Louisiana (Tuesday 6 September, 2016)
President Nelson, Elder Ballard, Sister Marriott and others minister to flood victims.‘Unhealthy Competition’: Valedictorians so Scary that School may Stop Honoring Them (Thursday 1 September, 2016)
A public school district near Louisville, Kentucky has come down with a bad case of what I call “Participation Trophy Syndrome” – or PTS. The Greater Clark County School Board in Jeffersonville, Indiana, is considering a plan to eliminate the valedictorian system because it creates “unhealthy competition,” according to Supt. Andrew Melin.In Russia, LDS Church Defends 6 Deported Former Missionaries (Wednesday 31 August, 2016)
LDS Church leaders in Russia have challenged the deportation of six American volunteers from the country in a statement on a church website.Gene Wilder and the Power of Laughter (Wednesday 31 August, 2016)
Rather than having a moment of silence for Mr. Wilder, I would instead suggest a more appropriate tribute of a moment of laughter.What Labels Do You Wear? (Wednesday 31 August, 2016)
How do you self-identify-- Is it accurate? Are you unfairly labeling yourself?Whatever Happened to Telling the Truth? (Tuesday 30 August, 2016)
Victor Davis Hanson laments in this important essay about why Americans excuse those in the public square who lie to us and “why today we assume that lying is simply a narrative, not a window to one’s character.”Official Statement on Mormon Missionaries Badly Injured in Car Accident in Sierra Leone (Sunday 28 August, 2016)
Each of the people in the mission van received injuries, some quite severe. Two of the missionaries have been transported by air ambulance to Ghana for more extensive care. Two are recovering in a hospital in Sierra Leone, and one has been released and is recovering well.Mormon Missionaries, Members Safe and Well After Major Italian Earthquake (Wednesday 24 August, 2016)
All Mormon missionaries in Italy and all LDS Church members there are alive and well after a powerful earthquake killed at least 120 people in central Italy early Wednesday morning.A Triple Whammy About the Creation (Wednesday 24 August, 2016)
I just learned how to multiply my appreciation for God’s handiwork.University of Utah Names Historic Building After President Monson (Wednesday 24 August, 2016)
A historic mansion in downtown Salt Lake City has been renamed the Thomas S. Monson Center after the current president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Almost Everything the Media Tells You About Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Is Wrong (Monday 22 August, 2016)
A major new report, published today in the journal The New Atlantis, challenges the leading narratives that the media has pushed regarding sexual orientation and gender identity.The Great Regression (Tuesday 16 August, 2016)
We are going backward at warp speed.The Press Tours Philly’s New Mormon Temple (Friday 12 August, 2016)
A press group toured the Philadelphia Temple and here is one blogger's report from The Huffington Post.CNN: Clinton, in Mormon pitch, compares Trump to religious persecutors (Thursday 11 August, 2016)
Hillary Clinton, sensing apprehension from Utah Republicans for Donald Trump's presidential campaign, pitched Mormon voters in a Wednesday op-ed published by the Deseret News, a paper owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.How Realistic are Nephite Battle Strategies? (Thursday 11 August, 2016)
The Book of Mormon’s rich accounts of warfare in the first century BC contain some of the most exciting and interesting material in the thousand-year narrative. The stories are replete with battlefield strategies, various military maneuvers, topographical awareness, and even covert, late-night operations.The Best Place for Children to Spend the Summer (Wednesday 10 August, 2016)
In these modern times, children’s lives are full of busy schedules, play dates, appointments, check-off lists, assignments, and extra curricular activities. We all want what's best for our children. So, where should they actually be spending their summer days?Congress Must Protect Religious Liberty Now More than Ever (Wednesday 10 August, 2016)
Since the Supreme Court ruled for the plaintiffs in Roe v. Wade, both federal and state governments have introduced a series of laws protecting religious individuals from having to participate in abortion if it violates their consciences.Why did Moroni Change His Mind About Exchanging Prisoners with Ammoron? (Wednesday 10 August, 2016)
After retaking the city of Mulek and fortifying Bountiful, Moroni received a written message from Ammoron, who desired to exchange prisoners. Moroni accepted Ammoron’s offer. Yet when Ammoron gladly agreed to these terms, Moroni declared, “Behold, I will not exchange prisoners with Ammoron save he will withdraw his purpose."Discovering the Word of Wisdom: Distinguishing Between Doctrines, Principles, and Applications (Monday 8 August, 2016)
Throughout our history, we Mormons have debated what is and is not proscribed by the Word of Wisdom. We know alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea are proscribed, but what about red wine when cooking? What about decaffeinated coffee? Sometimes trying to understand D&C 89 is like reading those tea leaves — not easy! The question arises: why didn't God just give it to us straight?Death Dive! Comet Plunges into the Sun at Mind-Blowing Speed (Monday 8 August, 2016)
A comet with a death wish met a truly fiery end Aug. 4 when it was destroyed by the sun after diving toward the star at a truly jaw-dropping speed. It is one of the brightest sungrazing comet events in over two decades, one scientist says.Media Quiet About Dismissed Charges Against Planned Parenthood Whistleblowers (Thursday 4 August, 2016)
When pro-life journalists who revealed Planned Parenthood's organ harvesting were charged, media loved it. When charges were dropped, the media went quiet.Why Would Pahoran Not Allow the Law to Be Amended? (Thursday 4 August, 2016)
Soon after Pahoran had been appointed as the chief judge, the Book of Mormon reports that “there began to be a contention among the people … for behold, there were a part of the people who desired that a few particular points of the law should be altered”.Angel Moroni Statue Tops Meridian Idaho Temple (Thursday 21 July, 2016)
Crane operators and construction workers hoisted the 13-foot-6-inch angel Moroni statue to the top of the Meridian Idaho Temple July 20, 2016.BYU Named 5th Best University in America by Money Magazine (Wednesday 20 July, 2016)
After being named 15th on last year's rankings, BYU has jumped 10 spots to rub shoulders with the likes of Princeton and Harvard as one of the top 5 universities in America according to Money Magazine.No Coup for Christians in Turkey (Wednesday 20 July, 2016)
The failed coup attempt against the government of Turkish President Recip Erdogan will have several negative effects and consequences for the people of Turkey.Why Was Corianton So Concerned About The Resurrection? (Wednesday 20 July, 2016)
After censuring Corianton for his immoral and detrimental conduct, Alma perceived that his son’s “mind [was] worried concerning the resurrection of the dead”. Why would the son of a prophet struggle to understand one of the most fundamental doctrines of the gospel?Your Hardest Family Question: My new husband is jealous of my memories of my late husband (Thursday 14 July, 2016)
My late husband died young, just 45 years old, after a long battle with cancer. We had been married 25 years and there are a million tiny reminders of him everywhere; in a song, a wildflower, six grandchildren. The list is endless. Now I am afraid to shed a tear or show the pain of his loss. I am afraid of hurting my new husband's feelings.Why was Alma Converted? (Thursday 14 July, 2016)
No other event had a greater impact on Alma’s life than the transformative three days he spent racked with torment after being rebuked by an angel. The themes of that experience permeate his sermons, and at least three different accounts of it survive in the Book of Mormon.LDS Church welfare, humanitarian efforts average $40 million per year, apostle says (Thursday 14 July, 2016)
In a lecture given last month at the University of Oxford, Elder Dallin H. Oaks said that each year The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints spends about $40 million on welfare, humanitarian and other LDS Church-sponsored projects around the world and has done so for more than 30 years. That would account for approximately $1.2 billion on welfare and humanitarian efforts over the past 30 years.Is Trump a Blooming Idiot or a Budding Genius? (Tuesday 12 July, 2016)
From the first day Donald Trump announced his run for the Presidency of the USA, I questioned his message discipline. In the year that has followed I’ve seen two notable actions: one from him and one from his detractors.Mormon Missionaries to Stay in Russia Despite New Law (Sunday 10 July, 2016)
Mormon missionaries will remain in Russia despite the country's new anti-terrorism law, which will put greater restrictions on religious work starting later this month. In a statement issued Friday, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said that missionaries will respect a measure that Russian President Vladimir Putin signed into law this week.Why Did the Ammonites Refuse to Enter War? (Wednesday 6 July, 2016)
This is the second half of the article entitled "The Ammonites Were Not Pacifists." Why, if they weren’t pacifists, did they still eschew war. Since an attitude of pacifism doesn’t explain this, what does?Sapporo Japan Temple to Open for Public Tours (Tuesday 5 July, 2016)
The First Presidency of the Church has announced the open house will begin on Friday, July 8, and continue through Saturday, July 23, 2016, excluding Sundays.President Nelson Shares What the Book of Mormon Is and What It Is Not (Sunday 3 July, 2016)
In a recent seminar for new Mission Presidents given at the MTC, President Russell M. Nelson expressed the desire to share a message of "real worth" to the couples soon to depart for the mission field to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The important topic he chose to explore was the Book of Mormon.Holocaust Escape Tunnel Found: Prisoners Dug with Spoons to Escape Nazis (Thursday 30 June, 2016)
A tunnel in Lithuania that allowed Jewish prisoners to escape to freedom has been discovered at an infamous location called Ponar, decades after they used it to flee the Nazis one night in April 1944.PBS Video Calls Mormon Welfare System Huge, Impressive (Wednesday 29 June, 2016)
The piece included interviews with a bishop, a Relief Society president, service missionaries and leaders of various departments of the welfare system of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.VIDEO: Independence Day Music from Jenny Oaks Baker and Family Four (Wednesday 29 June, 2016)
Brighten up your summer and your fourth of July with this upbeat taste of Americana from Jenny Oaks Baker and her children.Air Force Base Silences Veteran for Using the Word ‘God’ in a Retirement Speech (Sunday 26 June, 2016)
Uniformed airmen forcibly removed an Air Force veteran from a military base because he invoked God in a speech for a retirement ceremony, according to the legal group that represents him. They escorted Oscar Rodriguez Jr. from the “flag-folding” ceremony as the 33-year veteran began his remarks at Travis Air Force Base in California.Why Did Mormon Give So Many Details About Geography? (Sunday 26 June, 2016)
Practically since the Book of Mormon was published, its geography has been the subject of discussion and debate. John L. Sorenson, one of the foremost students on the subject, identified over 600 passages relevant to geography.Freemasonry and the Latter-day Saint Temple Endowment (Thursday 23 June, 2016)
Just seven weeks after rising to the level of Master Mason and in the very same space that the Masonic rites had been performed, Joseph Smith introduced the endowment. The endowment presented teachings, ordinances, and covenants to participants in a format that closely resembled a few parts of the ceremony used in Freemasonry.When Winston Churchill Investigated Mormon Missionary Practices (Wednesday 22 June, 2016)
In July 1910, Mormon missionaries were expelled from Germany amid allegations they were recruiting women to become polygamous wives in Utah. That move prompted the British Parliament to wonder whether England should follow suit. The politician assigned to oversee the investigation? A young man named Winston Churchill.Time Magazine: Intimacy Addiction Looks Similar to Drug Addiction (Monday 28 July, 2014)
Watching porn triggers similar brain activity as drug exposure, study says
Editor’s Note: In a world that too often seems to embrace pornography it is refreshing to see Time magazine, certainly part of the mainstream media, announce this study. Read the full article here:
There’s still debate over whether sex addiction exists, but a new study on porn and the brain provides more evidence that consuming explicit material is addicting. The new study, published in the journal PLOS ONE shows that sex addiction, scientifically known as compulsive sexual behavior, may actually be similar to drug addiction in the brain.
In the study, the researchers looked at 19 men with compulsive sexual behavior and 19 healthy men. The participants either watched sexually explicit videos or sports while the researchers monitored their brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging.
…After watching the videos, the participants also rated their level of sexual
Meridian Readers to the Rescue in Carlton Complex Fire (Monday 28 July, 2014)
A fire has raged in the Carlton Complex area of Washington State burning over 400 square miles and 300 homes. Sylvia Hammond, a stake Relief Society president in the Carlton Complex area of Washington state was asked by her priesthood leader to reach out and gather much-needed supplies as far as she could. She turned to Meridian readers who have rallied. She wrote:
“Thank you for your support and the huge and fast response we have received from Meridian readers from all over the country. I know it was an unusual way of requesting help and that you can’t publicize every need that arises throughout the country. You saw the need and have blessed the lives of those impacted by the fires in Washington State. My heartfelt thanks to you and your Meridian readership. I will give you a more detailed report on the donations in a couple …
Near Collision of Massive Solar Flare with Earth (Friday 25 July, 2014)
A massive coronal mass ejection (CME), a giant solar flare, narrowly missed the earth two years ago on July 23, 2012. Physicist Daniel Baker said that “if the eruption had occurred only one week earlier, Earth would have been in the line of fire.”
“Analysts believe that a direct hit … could cause widespread power blackouts, disabling everything that plugs into a wall socket. Most people wouldn’t even be able to flush their toilet because urban water supplies largely rely on electric pumps. … The total economic impact could exceed $2 trillion or 20 times greater than the costs of a Hurricane Katrina. Multi-ton transformers damaged by such a storm might take years to repair.”
Had it hit directly, this event could have been very similar to the coronal mass ejection of September 1859, called the Carrington solar storm that “caused global telegraph lines to spark, setting fire to some …
Choice Seeks to End Poverty (Friday 25 July, 2014)
Beginning this year, Meridian is teaming with CHOICE Humanitarian on a project to eliminate extreme poverty in a region of Nepal that includes 100,000 people. Many of you have already joined our Circle of Abundance in raising money for the project. Devin Thorpe, has just mentioned this project and the efforts of Jim Mayfield in his column in Forbes magazine. Here’s an excerpt and link:
Dr. James Mayfield has spent much of his life working to end poverty and he thinks he’s got it figured out.
“Go to the people, live among the people, learn from the people, plan with the people, work with the people, start with what the people know, and build on what the people have,” he says.
…
The CHOICE model has three distinct phases:
- Organizing: All projects are village based and begin by having the village identify leaders and key community resources to build upon;
Risks of Belief in Chance Evolution of our Bodies (Wednesday 15 May, 2013)
During the Sunday School lesson on the law of consecration and tithing, we studied Elder D. Todd Christofferson’s October 2010 conference talk entitled: “Reflections on a Consecrated Life.” One passage I read seemed particularly interesting in light of the belief in physical-only chance mutations as the driving force for all biological change.
“A consecrated life respects the incomparable gift of one’s physical body, a divine creation in the very image of God. A central purpose of the mortal experience is that each spirit should receive such a body and learn to exercise moral agency in a tabernacle of flesh.”
“Those who believe that our bodies are nothing more than the result of evolutionary chance will feel no accountability to God or anyone else for what they do with or to their body. We who have a witness of the broader reality of premortal, mortal, and postmortal eternity, however, must acknowledge
Great Activity Packets for General Conference (Thursday 4 April, 2013)
When it comes to resources for family home evening, Sunday School, scouting, primary, youth activities, or Relief Society, more and more Latter-day Saints are turning to Sugardoodle, an increasingly popular website for ideas and materials. One of their most popular products (and one offered for free, I might add), are downloadable pre-prepared packets meant to help maximize the General Conference experience.
Available here, the handsomely-crafted, full-color packets come complete with: suggestions for self-preparation before, during, and after Conference; places to note growth in church membership, missionaries, temples, stakes, and wards; interesting facts about the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve (along with reminders of their last conference talks and space to take notes on their talks this time); space for notes from other speakers; headshots of the general authorities (including those from the seventy, relief society, young women, primary, and more), and space for writing down personal …
2012 Calendar Alignment Catastrophe? (Friday 7 December, 2012)
As the much publicized and debated December 21, 2012 date arrives, both scientists and Mayan descendants caution against worries of a giant catastrophe happening in a few days.
“NASA scientists took time on Wednesday (Nov. 28) to soothe 2012 doomsday fears, warning against the dark side of Mayan apocalypse rumors — frightened children and suicidal teens who truly fear the world may come to an end Dec. 21.” This article in space.com explains these predictions have come both from a belief in a catastrophic alignment point in the Mayan calendar as well as that a rogue planet X named “Nibiru” may be approaching the earth. (Stephanie Pappas, “2012 Mayan Apocalypse Rumors Have Dark Side, NASA Warns,” November 28, 2012). See also this link on the planet Nibiru from an astronomer (David Morrison, “The Myth of Nibiru and the End of the World in 2012,” CSI: Committee for Skeptical Inquiry, September/Octorber …
Bubbleworld and Me (Monday 12 November, 2012)
Back around 1985 or early 1986, when I was beginning to compose the lengthy essay that would ultimately become the core of my book Offenders for a Word: How Anti-Mormons Play Word Games to Attack the Latter-day Saints, I was watching one of the nightly network news programs. The last few minutes of that broadcast were given over to a profile of the efforts of the Rev. Henry F. Fingerlin, pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Littleton, Colorado.
Rev. Fingerlin was quite upset that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was building a new temple only a relatively short distance from his church, and he had launched a campaign against Mormonism that used his building as its headquarters. Among other things, he denounced Mormons and Mormonism as non-Christian.
Since precisely that charge was the principal focus of my essay, and since I was trying …
Magic in the Air (Monday 22 November, 2010)
First day of Forgotten Carols rehearsals and I’m a happy guy. Reunited with great friends anticipating the best season ever and already having way too much fun. As we reviewed the blocking of the show and looked for better ways to bring the story to life we found some really fun stuff that’s been buried in the script for several years but now seems to be surfacing. Can’t wait to share the discoveries with audiences on the tour.
Just before we got to work this morning the cast received gifts: A copy of the new Forgotten Carols illustrated book, “A Christmas Miracle for Isaac and Eliza” and an all cotton throw/blanket with the Forgotten Carols logo on it. Not only does it look great and VERY festive but I’ve already wrapped myself up in it in anticipation of winter movie nights at McLean Cinemas.
During rehearsal today I was infused
Chores (Monday 8 November, 2010)
Three days of chores and I’m feeling “chore’d out”. Don’t get me wrong. There’s a great feeling of satisfaction getting an oversized load of stuff hauled off to the dump, getting my dad’s car repaired, moving the fire-pit benches up out of the sure to come snow, putting new tires on Lynne’s car, getting folks to the dentist, the doctor and, oh yes, voting.
Wait a minute. Is voting a “chore”? Of course not, it’s privilege and one I should never take for granted. But it was on “the list” of things to do so I sort of treated it like a chore and ALMOST missed the M2B:) highlight of these three days. I live in a place where my voice matters, where I can cast a ballot, in secret, and choose someone to represent me in matters local, national and international. Though the moment of voting was singular, it’s
The Gift of the Nap (Monday 1 November, 2010)
I did something wonderful today. I gave my wife and my daughter and my granddaughter a gift. I gave them a nap. Put them in their napping spots, closed the doors, plumped their pillows took Bucky on an adventure which took all afternoon.
I’m currently patting myself on the back…taking full (and I mean FULL) credit for my wonderfulness. Not taking credit that I may negotiate for future favors, mind you. I’m just giving myself permission to acknowledge my M2B:) afternoon at Dairy Keen with my grandson. We had great fun, and delicious treats while building towers and robots and playing with trains.
I’m still smiling…though I believe my triceps are cramping up from all the self-congratulatory pats on my own back. Maybe I should have asked Bucky to do it for me.
The Interview: I Talk Too Much (Wednesday 6 October, 2010)
I was interviewed today. Utah Valley Magazine has been around ten years and they asked if they could do an article on me for the November/December edition. The writer was kind enough to come up to Scotshaven to do the interview and as I reflect on our time together I realize something about myself. I talk to much.
I don’t mean just a little bit over the top, to much…I mean I TALK TOO MUCH!!! I’m like one of those old guys that tells so many side-bar stories that remind him of other side-bar stories that he can’t quite remember what the original question was. Only I’m worse than that. I talk too much. I believe that in the jargon dictionary next to the expression : Too Much Information there’s a picture of me.
Why is this? I’m sure my therapist of the last twenty years could fill you in,
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