The last week home was sad. I wasnโt having second thoughts or anything, but I sure was scared, and I realized how homesick I was going to be.
A couple of days before I left home to enter the MTC, I decided to walk from our house to Gusโs station, about two miles away, just to visit him at work one last time.
As I walked, I thought about Gus and myself. Weโre the only kids in our home. Weโve always been close, even though weโre so different and heโs five years older.
Gus used to be active in the Church. He had become a deacon. Then about the time he entered junior high school he started to rebel. My parents were patient but heartbroken.
Gus was tough and mean and popular. I was never PaulโI was Gusโs little brother. But that was okay, because the big guys left me alone.
People marveled we were brothers.
When I was a senior in high school I had already decided to serve a mission, so my hair was always cut shortโmissionary style. That school year Gus and I would always go to lunch together.
Heโd lock up his station and pick me up in front of the high school on his mean Harley-Davidson. We sure must have looked funny riding down the streetโGus with his beard and long hair, something out of a motorcycle gang, and me, โMr. Clean,โ your basic prospective missionary.
I approached Gusโs station that day from a trail in back of it and was rounding the corner to go into the office when I overheard Gus talking to someone about me. I stopped to listen. They didnโt know I was there.
โDid I tell you Paul is going on a mission?โ Gus asked.
โYer kiddin?โ It was the voice of Rod, Gusโs best friend, my worst enemy.
โNope, Iโm real proud of the kid.โ
โHeโs a โboot licker,โโ Rod cynically responded. โYou donโt believe all that stuff about Joseph Smith do ya?โ
I doubled my fist in instant anxiety.
How would Gus answer the question? Would he say what he really felt to Rod? His influence had always persuaded Gus to do wrong, which was why I disliked him so much.
Gus thought before he answered.
I canโt explain what his words did to me when he finally spoke. There are things in life youโll never forget.
โWell, Rod buddy,โ he said, โlet me tell you. I donโt know everything; neither do you. It could be true. All I know is it sure makes a difference in Paul. He loves it.โ
Rod continued to attack me.
โHe idolizes you, Gus. Heโd do anything you told him to, even if he thought it was wrong.โ
โNo he wouldnโt,โ Gus defended. โHeโs never been anything like me. If more Mormons were like him, I could maybe stand being around them. Nothingโs worse than a self-righteous Mormon. Heโs never judged me. And he hasnโt given my parents nearly the heartache I have.โ
Then Gus said something that really made me think.
โAnyway, if I ever caught him doing something wrong, if he ever let me down, so help me, Iโd punch him out.โ
I left them talking and started back home without them ever knowing I had been there. A lump formed in my throat as I realized why Gus had seemed so excited about my mission. Now I knew why he had always supported me.
You see, he needed me to be strong where he had been weak. I vowed that very day I would be strong for him. Iโd resist my temptations. I would not let him down. He needed to know someone could be good. I would be.
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Harley-Davidson
Summary: Before leaving for the MTC, the narrator walks to Gusโs station and overhears Gus and his friend Rod discussing him. Rod mocks the narrator, but Gus defends his younger brotherโs faith and character. Hearing this, the narrator realizes Gus needs him to be strong and vows to remain faithful for his brotherโs sake.
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๐ค Missionaries
๐ค Friends
๐ค Church Members (General)
Apostasy
Family
Friendship
Missionary Work
Temptation
Testimony
Run Away!
Summary: Tyler joins neighborhood boys in a playground clubhouse when one shows an immodest picture. Despite teasing and being chased, Tyler refuses to look and runs home. His sister Alicia defends him, and later he realizes the choice was easy because he had decided long ago not to look at bad pictures.
โWhat a day,โ Tyler thought as he finished reading his basketball book and got out of bed to kneel for his evening prayer.
โYou did a good job today,โ Alicia told him as she peeked her head into his room on her way to bed. Tyler was glad she said it, but he didnโt feel he had made any big decision. Sure, he had made a good choice, but it came so naturally that it didnโt really feel like much of a choice at all.
The day had started out like a normal Saturday. Tyler walked a block to the neighborhood playground where there were always kids to play with. Some days he played soccer, some days he played basketball, and other days he just played tag.
When Tyler got to the park, he saw a few boys huddled in the little red clubhouse near the jungle gym.
When Tyler crawled inside, he saw Anthony, Marcus, and Stephenโall boys he had played with before. He started talking with them about things like video games and what their Halloween costumes were going to be.
Then Anthony pulled out a folded-up piece of paper. โHey, guys. Look at this picture of a girl I took from one of my dadโs magazines,โ he said.
Marcus and Stephen moved behind Anthony to see the picture. Tyler didnโt move.
โWhoa!โ Marcus said. His eyes got as big as marbles.
Stephenโs cheeks turned red. He slapped his hand over his open mouth and started to laugh. Anthony and Marcus laughed too.
A chill ran up Tylerโs back. He knew the picture was something he should not look at. He turned toward the door and crawled out of the clubhouse.
Anthony crawled out after him.
โTyler, come look at this!โ Anthony said.
โNo,โ Tyler answered. โI donโt look at those kinds of pictures.โ
โWhy not?โ Anthony said. His voice was so loud Tyler could hear it echo off the hills behind the playground. โAre you scared?โ
The other boys laughed.
Anthony ran toward Tyler. As he got closer, Tyler saw Anthonyโs hand moving upward. Tyler closed his eyes. He felt the paper brush against his face.
โCome on, look!โ Anthony said as he laughed. โLook!โ
Tyler jerked his head away from the paper. It didnโt matter to him how much he was teased or how much the other boys laughed. He knew he should not look.
So he ran.
Tyler ran from one side of the playground to the other, but Anthony was right behind him, holding up the picture and laughing.
Because Tylerโs home was nearby, he knew the best way to get Anthony to stop chasing him was to run home. As Tyler began to run home, he saw something he had not noticed before. His sister, Alicia, was standing by the swings. As he ran past her, she turned toward Anthony.
โLeave him alone!โ she yelled. Anthony, who was already slowing down, stopped and walked back to the playground.
When Tyler ran through his front door, he made his way to the living room and crashed on the couch. Alicia walked in a few minutes later. โDonโt worry about those guys,โ she said. โYou did great.โ
As Tyler lay in bed thinking about what had happened to him that day, he started to realize why not looking at the picture had been an easy choice for him. Tyler had already learned that he should not look at immodest pictures. Maybe today was the first time anyone had tried to show him a bad picture, but he had already made up his mind a long time ago.
โYou did a good job today,โ Alicia told him as she peeked her head into his room on her way to bed. Tyler was glad she said it, but he didnโt feel he had made any big decision. Sure, he had made a good choice, but it came so naturally that it didnโt really feel like much of a choice at all.
The day had started out like a normal Saturday. Tyler walked a block to the neighborhood playground where there were always kids to play with. Some days he played soccer, some days he played basketball, and other days he just played tag.
When Tyler got to the park, he saw a few boys huddled in the little red clubhouse near the jungle gym.
When Tyler crawled inside, he saw Anthony, Marcus, and Stephenโall boys he had played with before. He started talking with them about things like video games and what their Halloween costumes were going to be.
Then Anthony pulled out a folded-up piece of paper. โHey, guys. Look at this picture of a girl I took from one of my dadโs magazines,โ he said.
Marcus and Stephen moved behind Anthony to see the picture. Tyler didnโt move.
โWhoa!โ Marcus said. His eyes got as big as marbles.
Stephenโs cheeks turned red. He slapped his hand over his open mouth and started to laugh. Anthony and Marcus laughed too.
A chill ran up Tylerโs back. He knew the picture was something he should not look at. He turned toward the door and crawled out of the clubhouse.
Anthony crawled out after him.
โTyler, come look at this!โ Anthony said.
โNo,โ Tyler answered. โI donโt look at those kinds of pictures.โ
โWhy not?โ Anthony said. His voice was so loud Tyler could hear it echo off the hills behind the playground. โAre you scared?โ
The other boys laughed.
Anthony ran toward Tyler. As he got closer, Tyler saw Anthonyโs hand moving upward. Tyler closed his eyes. He felt the paper brush against his face.
โCome on, look!โ Anthony said as he laughed. โLook!โ
Tyler jerked his head away from the paper. It didnโt matter to him how much he was teased or how much the other boys laughed. He knew he should not look.
So he ran.
Tyler ran from one side of the playground to the other, but Anthony was right behind him, holding up the picture and laughing.
Because Tylerโs home was nearby, he knew the best way to get Anthony to stop chasing him was to run home. As Tyler began to run home, he saw something he had not noticed before. His sister, Alicia, was standing by the swings. As he ran past her, she turned toward Anthony.
โLeave him alone!โ she yelled. Anthony, who was already slowing down, stopped and walked back to the playground.
When Tyler ran through his front door, he made his way to the living room and crashed on the couch. Alicia walked in a few minutes later. โDonโt worry about those guys,โ she said. โYou did great.โ
As Tyler lay in bed thinking about what had happened to him that day, he started to realize why not looking at the picture had been an easy choice for him. Tyler had already learned that he should not look at immodest pictures. Maybe today was the first time anyone had tried to show him a bad picture, but he had already made up his mind a long time ago.
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๐ค Children
๐ค Friends
Chastity
Courage
Obedience
Pornography
Temptation
My Brotherโs Keeper
Summary: After devastating flooding in Georgia, priesthood volunteers spent a weekend cleaning the home of Mr. Davis, a retired nonmember. When finished, they asked to bless his house, and the bishop offered a prayer. Mr. Davis wept and expressed deep gratitude for their help and kindness.
Priesthood volunteers from the Jacksonville Florida West Stake worked all weekend cleaning up a house which had been nearly submerged by the flood. The owner, a retired nonmember named Davis, was overwhelmed by the help provided. When the work was completed, the brethren asked Mr. Davis if they could bless his house. They gathered together, and the bishop pronounced a blessing on the home and on the family. Tears ran down Mr. Davisโs cheeks, and the Spirit was very strong. Each of the volunteers hugged him and told him how glad they were to have been of help. He said they had done more than they could ever know and that he didnโt know how to thank them enough.
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๐ค Church Members (General)
๐ค Church Leaders (Local)
๐ค Other
Bishop
Charity
Emergency Response
Holy Ghost
Priesthood
Priesthood Blessing
Service
Staying Strong in France
Summary: Pierre, a 24-year-old trainee helicopter pilot in the French Army, faces temptations and judgment in a challenging environment far from home and fellow Church members. He chooses to live his standards and relies on daily scripture study and prayer to keep his testimony strong. His earlier habits from schooling and a mission in Montreal continue to sustain him and help him be an example to his unit.
Training to be a helicopter pilot isnโt an opportunity that most people get. But when Pierre O., 24, decided to enlist in the French Army, he got just that. Now in his second year of the four-year training, Pierre is doing his best to live as an example of the believers, despite his environment.
Stationed about an hour and a half outside of Bordeaux, in southwestern France, Pierre is far from his friends, family, and hometown of Rennes. The nearest meetinghouse is an hour away, meaning that he doesnโt get to interact much with members during the week. โItโs not easy to be a member of the Church in the army,โ Pierre says, โbecause there are a lot of temptations and itโs really just two opposite worlds. Youโre judged a lot in the army not based on what you do but on who you are.โ Pierre wants those around him to see that he doesnโt drink alcohol, smoke, view pornography, or partyโcommonplace activities in the armyโbecause of who he is: a member of the Church. While he struggles to earn the respect of those around him, prayer and scripture study help keep his testimony strong. โI try to not go to sleep without having read my scriptures first,โ he explains, โand I try to pray whenever I can.โ
โReading the scriptures and praying helped me a lot during all of my schooling to know that God exists, that He is thereโwithout really understanding the rest of the gospel,โ Pierre explains. โI just knew that God was there, and so that helped me to stay on the right path.โ
That foundation of scripture study sustained Pierre throughout all his schooling and even now through his army training. Before enlisting, Pierre served a mission in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where his testimony and understanding of the gospel were solidified.
โThe scriptures are one of the most tangible ways Heavenly Father answers us,โ he says.
Through his daily prayer and scripture study, Pierre is able not only to receive inspiration but also to be an example to those in his army unit. While he and his classmates may not have much in common besides their national pride, Pierre knows that by following the teachings of the scriptures, he will be someone they can respect because of and not in spite of his beliefs.
Stationed about an hour and a half outside of Bordeaux, in southwestern France, Pierre is far from his friends, family, and hometown of Rennes. The nearest meetinghouse is an hour away, meaning that he doesnโt get to interact much with members during the week. โItโs not easy to be a member of the Church in the army,โ Pierre says, โbecause there are a lot of temptations and itโs really just two opposite worlds. Youโre judged a lot in the army not based on what you do but on who you are.โ Pierre wants those around him to see that he doesnโt drink alcohol, smoke, view pornography, or partyโcommonplace activities in the armyโbecause of who he is: a member of the Church. While he struggles to earn the respect of those around him, prayer and scripture study help keep his testimony strong. โI try to not go to sleep without having read my scriptures first,โ he explains, โand I try to pray whenever I can.โ
โReading the scriptures and praying helped me a lot during all of my schooling to know that God exists, that He is thereโwithout really understanding the rest of the gospel,โ Pierre explains. โI just knew that God was there, and so that helped me to stay on the right path.โ
That foundation of scripture study sustained Pierre throughout all his schooling and even now through his army training. Before enlisting, Pierre served a mission in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where his testimony and understanding of the gospel were solidified.
โThe scriptures are one of the most tangible ways Heavenly Father answers us,โ he says.
Through his daily prayer and scripture study, Pierre is able not only to receive inspiration but also to be an example to those in his army unit. While he and his classmates may not have much in common besides their national pride, Pierre knows that by following the teachings of the scriptures, he will be someone they can respect because of and not in spite of his beliefs.
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๐ค Young Adults
๐ค Church Members (General)
Adversity
Courage
Faith
Judging Others
Missionary Work
Prayer
Scriptures
Temptation
Testimony
War
Word of Wisdom
The Law of Sacrifice
Summary: As a bishop in 1958, Elder Ballardโs ward still needed $30,000 to complete their building. After fasting and praying, he read his grandfather Elder Melvin J. Ballardโs testimony to the brethren, and the Spirit moved the ward to contribute sacrificially that day, raising the full amount and uniting the members.
We sing, โSacrifice brings forth the blessings of heavenโ (โPraise to the Man,โ Hymns, number 27). This is a true principle. Let me illustrate with a personal experience.
I was named bishop of a suburban Salt Lake City ward in 1958, in the days when local members paid 50 percent of the cost of constructing a building. One of the most important leadership experiences in my life came several weeks before the dedication of our building. Our ward of young families, struggling to make ends meet, still needed to raise U.S. $30,000. I fasted and prayed to know what I should say to them regarding this obligation. We already had pressed them very hard.
As the brethren gathered for priesthood meeting, I was impressed to read to them the testimony that Elder Melvin J. Ballard, my grandfather, bore when he was ordained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on 7 January 1919. I quote a small portion recounting his experience in 1917 when he had sought the Lord pleadingly in a situation where there were no precedents for guidance:
โThat night I received a wonderful manifestation and impression which has never left me. I was carried to this placeโinto this room. I saw myself here with you. I was told there was another privilege that was to be mine; and I was led into a room where I was informed I was to meet someone. As I entered the room I saw, seated on a raised platform, the most glorious being I have ever conceived of, and was taken forward to be introduced to Him. As I approached He smiled, called my name, and stretched out His hands toward me. โฆ He put His arms around me and kissed me, as He took me into His bosom, and He blessed me until my whole being was thrilled. As He finished I fell at His feet, and there saw the marks of the nails; and as I kissed them, with deep joy swelling through my whole being, I felt that I was in heaven indeed. The feeling that came to my heart then was: Oh! If I could live worthy โฆ so that in the end when I have finished I could go into His presence and receive the feeling that I then had in His presence, I would give everything that I am and ever hope to be!โ (Melvin R. Ballard, Melvin J. Ballard: Crusader for Righteousness [1966], 66).
The Spirit of the Lord touched the hearts of the faithful brethren in my wardโs priesthood meeting that day. We all knew that with greater faith in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we could reach our goal. During that same day, family after family came to my office with money, making personal sacrifices that were far beyond what I, the bishop, would ever have asked of them. By eight oโclock Sunday evening, the ward clerk had written receipts for a little more than $30,000.
Sacrifice truly brought forth the blessings of heaven to the members of our ward. Never have I lived among a people who were more united, more caring, more concerned for one another than those members. In our greatest sacrifice, we became bonded together in the true spirit of the gospel of love and service.
I was named bishop of a suburban Salt Lake City ward in 1958, in the days when local members paid 50 percent of the cost of constructing a building. One of the most important leadership experiences in my life came several weeks before the dedication of our building. Our ward of young families, struggling to make ends meet, still needed to raise U.S. $30,000. I fasted and prayed to know what I should say to them regarding this obligation. We already had pressed them very hard.
As the brethren gathered for priesthood meeting, I was impressed to read to them the testimony that Elder Melvin J. Ballard, my grandfather, bore when he was ordained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on 7 January 1919. I quote a small portion recounting his experience in 1917 when he had sought the Lord pleadingly in a situation where there were no precedents for guidance:
โThat night I received a wonderful manifestation and impression which has never left me. I was carried to this placeโinto this room. I saw myself here with you. I was told there was another privilege that was to be mine; and I was led into a room where I was informed I was to meet someone. As I entered the room I saw, seated on a raised platform, the most glorious being I have ever conceived of, and was taken forward to be introduced to Him. As I approached He smiled, called my name, and stretched out His hands toward me. โฆ He put His arms around me and kissed me, as He took me into His bosom, and He blessed me until my whole being was thrilled. As He finished I fell at His feet, and there saw the marks of the nails; and as I kissed them, with deep joy swelling through my whole being, I felt that I was in heaven indeed. The feeling that came to my heart then was: Oh! If I could live worthy โฆ so that in the end when I have finished I could go into His presence and receive the feeling that I then had in His presence, I would give everything that I am and ever hope to be!โ (Melvin R. Ballard, Melvin J. Ballard: Crusader for Righteousness [1966], 66).
The Spirit of the Lord touched the hearts of the faithful brethren in my wardโs priesthood meeting that day. We all knew that with greater faith in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we could reach our goal. During that same day, family after family came to my office with money, making personal sacrifices that were far beyond what I, the bishop, would ever have asked of them. By eight oโclock Sunday evening, the ward clerk had written receipts for a little more than $30,000.
Sacrifice truly brought forth the blessings of heaven to the members of our ward. Never have I lived among a people who were more united, more caring, more concerned for one another than those members. In our greatest sacrifice, we became bonded together in the true spirit of the gospel of love and service.
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๐ค Church Leaders (Local)
๐ค Church Members (General)
๐ค General Authorities (Modern)
Apostle
Atonement of Jesus Christ
Bishop
Charity
Faith
Fasting and Fast Offerings
Holy Ghost
Jesus Christ
Love
Prayer
Priesthood
Revelation
Sacrifice
Service
Testimony
Unity
To Truly See
Summary: Walter Stover, a German convert who immigrated to America, later returned to postwar Germany to lead the Church there. He built two chapels in Berlin with his own funds and organized a large gathering in Dresden, chartering a train for members to attend. At his funeral, his son-in-law said Walter saw Christ in every face and acted accordingly.
Such was Walter Stover of Salt Lake City. Born in Germany, Walter embraced the gospel message and came to America. He established his own business. He gave freely of his time and of his means.
Following World War II, Walter Stover was called to return to his native land. He directed the Church in that nation and blessed the lives of all whom he met and with whom he served. With his own funds, he constructed two chapels in Berlinโa beautiful city that had been so devastated by the conflict. He planned a gathering in Dresden for all the members of the Church from that nation and then chartered a train to bring them from all around the land so they could meet, partake of the sacrament, and bear witness of the goodness of God to them.
At the funeral service for Walter Stover, his son-in-law Thomas C. LeDuc said of him, โHe had the ability to see Christ in every face he encountered, and he acted accordingly.โ
Following World War II, Walter Stover was called to return to his native land. He directed the Church in that nation and blessed the lives of all whom he met and with whom he served. With his own funds, he constructed two chapels in Berlinโa beautiful city that had been so devastated by the conflict. He planned a gathering in Dresden for all the members of the Church from that nation and then chartered a train to bring them from all around the land so they could meet, partake of the sacrament, and bear witness of the goodness of God to them.
At the funeral service for Walter Stover, his son-in-law Thomas C. LeDuc said of him, โHe had the ability to see Christ in every face he encountered, and he acted accordingly.โ
Read more โ
๐ค Church Members (General)
๐ค Church Leaders (Local)
Charity
Conversion
Diversity and Unity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Sacrament
Sacrifice
Service
Testimony
War
Feedback
Summary: A convert recalls how missionaries once shared New Era magazines with her family and now, as a full-time missionary, she shares them with others. After spending much time in the hospital and battling depression, her family read Church publications to her, inspiring her to give back by serving a mission. Health concerns are ending her mission early, but she plans to return when stronger.
Iโm a convert to the Church, and I remember well the New Eras the elders brought to our house for my daughters to read when we were investigating the Church. Iโm now serving as a full-time missionary in Michigan. I enjoy transfers because each new apartment has back issues of the Church publications. Iโm in a position now to share the New Era with families that we teach.
I need to tell you how much I enjoyed โThe Swingโ in the February 1986 New Era. Stories like that are encouraging and uplifting. Iโve lived in the hospital off and on for two and a half years. Iโve been out one year this month. Depression about overcame me. My family would come and sit with me by the hour and read the Church publications to me. My health had gotten to the point that I needed to give some of what someone took time to give to meโthe gospel.
My mission is about to come to an end. My health wonโt let me finish at this time. But when Iโm strong Iโll come back out and work again. Thank you, Sharon Bradley, for โThe Swing.โ
I need to tell you how much I enjoyed โThe Swingโ in the February 1986 New Era. Stories like that are encouraging and uplifting. Iโve lived in the hospital off and on for two and a half years. Iโve been out one year this month. Depression about overcame me. My family would come and sit with me by the hour and read the Church publications to me. My health had gotten to the point that I needed to give some of what someone took time to give to meโthe gospel.
My mission is about to come to an end. My health wonโt let me finish at this time. But when Iโm strong Iโll come back out and work again. Thank you, Sharon Bradley, for โThe Swing.โ
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๐ค Missionaries
๐ค Other
Adversity
Conversion
Disabilities
Endure to the End
Gratitude
Health
Mental Health
Missionary Work
Service
Teaching the Gospel
Returning the Favor
Summary: After years of receiving service from Palos Verdes youth, youth from the Mexico Tijuana Stake traveled north to help with an anti-graffiti campaign. They cleaned a high school, repainted walls, shared cultural performances, stayed with local members, and joined a combined sacrament meeting. A local bishop praised their example and contribution.
The youth of the Harbor Ward, Palos Verdes Stake, California, have been traveling across the border to help members of the Mexico Tijuana Stake for about ten years. Theyโve built and repaired homes, renovated chapels, and done roofing and landscaping. This year, the youth from Tijuana returned the favor.
As part of a neighborhood anti-graffiti campaign, the Tijuana Saints came north to work with the Palos Verdes Stake to paint and clean a high school.
The Mexican youth were granted weekend visitorsโ passes. They spent hours cleaning debris from the school courtyard and repainting graffiti-marred walls. After the work was finished, the youth got together for a night of multicultural food and entertainment. The Tijuana Saints performed several ethnic dances and musical numbers. They stayed in membersโ homes, and on Sunday morning had a joint sacrament meeting.
โThey are really a model group of Latter-day Saints,โ said Bishop David Bond of the Harbor Ward. โThey did a lot of good for our ward.โ
As part of a neighborhood anti-graffiti campaign, the Tijuana Saints came north to work with the Palos Verdes Stake to paint and clean a high school.
The Mexican youth were granted weekend visitorsโ passes. They spent hours cleaning debris from the school courtyard and repainting graffiti-marred walls. After the work was finished, the youth got together for a night of multicultural food and entertainment. The Tijuana Saints performed several ethnic dances and musical numbers. They stayed in membersโ homes, and on Sunday morning had a joint sacrament meeting.
โThey are really a model group of Latter-day Saints,โ said Bishop David Bond of the Harbor Ward. โThey did a lot of good for our ward.โ
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๐ค Youth
๐ค Church Leaders (Local)
๐ค Church Members (General)
Bishop
Diversity and Unity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Music
Sacrament Meeting
Service
Unity
FYI:For Your Information
Summary: During a class outing near Kualoa Beach Park, Leandra Arlyn K. Data and several classmates fell into deeper water. She stayed calm, taught a nonswimming friend to float, was picked up by a rescue boat, and helped pull others aboard. Her friend, carried by the current, was later found safe, still floating as instructed.
While on a class outing near Kualoa Beach Park, Leandra Arlyn K. Data of the Waipahu Ward, Waipahu Hawaii Stake, helped save the lives of several of her fellow classmates. The large group was following a reef to a nearby island when several got out of line and fell off into deeper water. Leandra was one in this group. She resisted panic and helped her friend who couldnโt swim to relax and float. Then after being picked up by a rescue boat, she helped pull others to safety. Even though her friend was carried away by a current, Leandraโs quick instructions saved her life. Her friend was found in good condition still floating like Leandra had taught her.
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๐ค Youth
๐ค Friends
Courage
Emergency Response
Friendship
Service
Young Women
Josephโs Family
Summary: Lucy Mack Smith endured intense suffering, loss, and persecution while supporting and preparing her son Joseph Smith for his prophetic mission. She encouraged him spiritually, comforted him during trials, and turned to prayer when Joseph and Hyrum were in danger during Zionโs Camp. After Joseph and Hyrum were killed, she grieved deeply, but the Lord comforted her with the assurance that they had been taken to Him for rest.
Perhaps less visible than the Prophetโs father, but equally important in shaping and influencing his life, was his mother, Lucy Mack Smith. She gave birth to 11 children and endured faithfully as all but 4 preceded her in death. During her life, she watched six of her immediate family and one grandson die as a result of ruthless mob violence and persecution.
Early in her marriage, Lucy prepared herself to raise a prophet. On one occasion she became seriously ill, and the doctors said she would die. Lucy records that she โmade a solemn covenant with God that if He would let me live I would endeavor to serve him according to the best of my abilities.โ After a voice assured her that she would live, she told her mother, โThe Lord will let me live, if I am faithful to the promise which I made to him, to be a comfort to my mother, my husband, and my children.โ3
She gave continual encouragement, support, and strength to her son, Joseph the Prophet. His mother was the first person with whom young Joseph shared some of his momentous experiences of the Sacred Grove. Years later, he shared with her the joy and relief he felt when the Lord allowed others to view the sacred plates of gold.4
The Prophetโs mother shared also in his sorrows, sufferings, and persecutions. One time a mob took Joseph and his brother Hyrum prisoner and threatened to shoot them. The two brothers were confined under a cloth cover in a wagon. Their courageous mother risked her life and forced her way through the hostile mob to comfort her sons. Joseph and Hyrum could not see their mother and could only extend a hand from under the confining cover. As Lucyโs hand and the hands of her sons touched, the wagon drove off, literally tearing the sorrowing mother from her two sons.
Like great parents of all ages, Lucy turned to prayer for divine help to sustain her family. During the march from Ohio to Missouri known as Zionโs Camp, Joseph and Hyrum were seriously ill with cholera, and their lives were almost taken. At one point, โHyrum sprang to his feet and exclaimed, โJoseph, we shall return to our families. I have had an open vision, in which I saw mother kneeling under an apple tree; and she is even now asking God, in tears, to spare our lives. โฆ The Spirit testifies, that her prayers โฆ will be answered.โโ5
Lucyโs sons Joseph and Hyrum ultimately sealed their testimonies with their blood. As the grieving mother looked upon their lifeless remains, she cried, โMy God, my God, why hast thou forsaken this family!โ As a kind blessing to a faithful mother, the Lord softened her grief and granted to her the peace that only God can bestow. A voice spoke to her soul: โI have taken them to myself, that they might have rest.โ6
Early in her marriage, Lucy prepared herself to raise a prophet. On one occasion she became seriously ill, and the doctors said she would die. Lucy records that she โmade a solemn covenant with God that if He would let me live I would endeavor to serve him according to the best of my abilities.โ After a voice assured her that she would live, she told her mother, โThe Lord will let me live, if I am faithful to the promise which I made to him, to be a comfort to my mother, my husband, and my children.โ3
She gave continual encouragement, support, and strength to her son, Joseph the Prophet. His mother was the first person with whom young Joseph shared some of his momentous experiences of the Sacred Grove. Years later, he shared with her the joy and relief he felt when the Lord allowed others to view the sacred plates of gold.4
The Prophetโs mother shared also in his sorrows, sufferings, and persecutions. One time a mob took Joseph and his brother Hyrum prisoner and threatened to shoot them. The two brothers were confined under a cloth cover in a wagon. Their courageous mother risked her life and forced her way through the hostile mob to comfort her sons. Joseph and Hyrum could not see their mother and could only extend a hand from under the confining cover. As Lucyโs hand and the hands of her sons touched, the wagon drove off, literally tearing the sorrowing mother from her two sons.
Like great parents of all ages, Lucy turned to prayer for divine help to sustain her family. During the march from Ohio to Missouri known as Zionโs Camp, Joseph and Hyrum were seriously ill with cholera, and their lives were almost taken. At one point, โHyrum sprang to his feet and exclaimed, โJoseph, we shall return to our families. I have had an open vision, in which I saw mother kneeling under an apple tree; and she is even now asking God, in tears, to spare our lives. โฆ The Spirit testifies, that her prayers โฆ will be answered.โโ5
Lucyโs sons Joseph and Hyrum ultimately sealed their testimonies with their blood. As the grieving mother looked upon their lifeless remains, she cried, โMy God, my God, why hast thou forsaken this family!โ As a kind blessing to a faithful mother, the Lord softened her grief and granted to her the peace that only God can bestow. A voice spoke to her soul: โI have taken them to myself, that they might have rest.โ6
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๐ค Joseph Smith
๐ค Early Saints
๐ค Parents
Adversity
Faith
Family
Health
Holy Ghost
Joseph Smith
Miracles
Prayer
Revelation
Friend to Friend
Summary: As a young boy during World War II, his neighbor Mrs. Carey taught him daily about the war's progress across Europe and the Pacific. Those sessions taught him history and geography and sparked his interest in other countries.
One important teacher was my neighbor, Mrs. Carey. I was a young boy when World War II was raging, and every day after school she taught me about the war and the countries that were involved in it. Mrs. Carey took me through the war day by dayโin Europe, city by city; in the Pacific, island by islandโexplaining what was happening. In the process, I learned about history and geography. My interest in other countries was sparked during the hours I spent in her home.
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๐ค Children
๐ค Other
Children
Education
War
A Priesthood of Preparation
Summary: After marrying and moving to a big city for an engineering job, the speakerโs son quickly found fellowship through his priesthood quorum. A coworker remarked that, unlike his own isolation after two years, the son had immediate social connections, including a quorum dinner. Later, the son helped a coworker move and realized how blessed he was to have a supportive quorum community.
Let me tell you about this boy again. Now he is married. He has graduated with a degree in engineering, and he has left to go away to a big city. He and his wife were nervousโa new job, a new home, away from the family.
He told me these two experiences. He worked in a large room with a lot of engineers. After he had been there for two months, he was getting things ready so that he could leave his work on time. We had taught him to arrive at work a little early and to stay a little after time, to do a little extra. But this day he wanted to get away right on time. One of the other engineers asked him where he was going.
โWhat are you in such a hurry for?โ
โWell, we are going to a dinner tonight.โ
โWhat kind of a dinner?โ โItโs a quorum dinner. We are taking our wives to a special dinner and a social.โ
The other engineer shook his head. โI donโt understand you. Iโve been here two years; I donโt know anybody yet. My wife and I are still just by ourselves. Youโve been here for two months. Already youโve been invited to dinner.โ
The next experience. One day one of the engineers asked if my son would help him move. โWe found a better apartment. Saturday we are going to move. I need some help. Will you help me?โ Our son said, โWhy, of course.โ And then his wife made some bread for them and prepared a meal. He helped them move. Then he said this: โDad, Iโve been thinking about that. He hardly knows me. I hardly knew who he was.โ And he said, โIf Iโm the one who was the closest to him, the one he would dare to ask help him move, he doesnโt have anybody.โ And he said, โLook what I have.โ
When he and his wife arrived in the new city, they went to Church. He went to his quorum; he belonged the day he walked in. A quorumโto sustain one another, to help one another. A quorum of the priesthood.
He told me these two experiences. He worked in a large room with a lot of engineers. After he had been there for two months, he was getting things ready so that he could leave his work on time. We had taught him to arrive at work a little early and to stay a little after time, to do a little extra. But this day he wanted to get away right on time. One of the other engineers asked him where he was going.
โWhat are you in such a hurry for?โ
โWell, we are going to a dinner tonight.โ
โWhat kind of a dinner?โ โItโs a quorum dinner. We are taking our wives to a special dinner and a social.โ
The other engineer shook his head. โI donโt understand you. Iโve been here two years; I donโt know anybody yet. My wife and I are still just by ourselves. Youโve been here for two months. Already youโve been invited to dinner.โ
The next experience. One day one of the engineers asked if my son would help him move. โWe found a better apartment. Saturday we are going to move. I need some help. Will you help me?โ Our son said, โWhy, of course.โ And then his wife made some bread for them and prepared a meal. He helped them move. Then he said this: โDad, Iโve been thinking about that. He hardly knows me. I hardly knew who he was.โ And he said, โIf Iโm the one who was the closest to him, the one he would dare to ask help him move, he doesnโt have anybody.โ And he said, โLook what I have.โ
When he and his wife arrived in the new city, they went to Church. He went to his quorum; he belonged the day he walked in. A quorumโto sustain one another, to help one another. A quorum of the priesthood.
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๐ค Young Adults
๐ค Church Members (General)
๐ค Other
Education
Employment
Family
Friendship
Ministering
Priesthood
Service
French Polynesian Youth Gather After Months of Isolation
Summary: After months at home due to the pandemic, Primary leaders organized a daylong activity aligned with Come, Follow Me. The children completed a two-kilometer hike with messages, challenges, and questions reviewing the Book of Mormon. They enjoyed being together and realized the importance of having the Book of Mormon to help solve problems.
The Primary put together a daylong activity that followed the Churchwide gospel study curriculum, Come, Follow Me.
Mahealani Tetuanui, a leader in the childrenโs organisation, said, โAfter six months at home, we wanted to touch on everything that the children have learned about the Book of Mormon since the beginning of the year, whether in Primary or in their homes.โ
The activity was called โWalk for Your Faithโ and was a two-kilometer hike in Faanui. On their route, each group had to find messages, complete challenges, and answer 20 questions.
Cinthias Shan, Primary president said: โThe children really enjoyed being together after such a long time without interaction. And regarding the Book of Mormon, they realized that it was important to have it along the way to solve their problems at every stage of the big race, but also in everyday life.โ
Mahealani Tetuanui, a leader in the childrenโs organisation, said, โAfter six months at home, we wanted to touch on everything that the children have learned about the Book of Mormon since the beginning of the year, whether in Primary or in their homes.โ
The activity was called โWalk for Your Faithโ and was a two-kilometer hike in Faanui. On their route, each group had to find messages, complete challenges, and answer 20 questions.
Cinthias Shan, Primary president said: โThe children really enjoyed being together after such a long time without interaction. And regarding the Book of Mormon, they realized that it was important to have it along the way to solve their problems at every stage of the big race, but also in everyday life.โ
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๐ค Children
๐ค Church Leaders (Local)
Book of Mormon
Children
Faith
Friendship
Teaching the Gospel
President Henry B. Eyring
Summary: Shortly after Henry B. Eyring was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1995, President James E. Faust invited him into his office. Instead of offering conventional advice, President Faust pointed heavenward and told him to speak to God. President Eyring learned to rely on the Lord rather than seeking solutions solely from others.
At a press conference following the announcement of his call on October 6, President Eyring recalled being invited into President Faustโs office shortly after being called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 1, 1995. Instead of offering expected encouragement, President Faust pointed heavenward, smiled, and said, โDonโt talk to me. Talk to Him.โ President Eyring explained, โRather than trying to solve all my problems, he sent me to God. He had that gift of being very sensitive and kindโthe dearest friend and the best mentor you could have.โ
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๐ค General Authorities (Modern)
Apostle
Friendship
Kindness
Prayer
Therefore They Hushed Their Fears
Summary: As a young boy, the speaker accidentally broke a store window while playing with friends and was overcome with fear, imagining lifelong consequences. He hid under his bed until his parents coaxed him out and helped him make amends with the store owner. The immediate crisis passed, and his 'jail sentence' was humorously 'commuted.' The experience illustrates how intense fear can be addressed through accountability and loving help.
I remember vividly an experience I had as a small boy. One day while playing with my friends, I accidentally broke a window in a store near our home. As the glass shattered and the security alarm blared, a paralyzing fear filled my heart and mind. I realized immediately I was doomed to spend the remainder of my life in prison. My parents eventually coaxed me out from a hiding place under my bed and helped me to make amends with the store owner. Fortunately, my jail sentence was commuted.
The fear I felt that day was overwhelming and real. You undoubtedly have experienced much greater feelings of dread after learning about a personal health challenge, discovering a family member in difficulty or danger, or observing disturbing world events. In such instances, the distressing emotion of fear arises because of impending danger, uncertainty, or pain and through experiences that are unexpected, sometimes sudden, and likely to produce a negative outcome.
The fear I felt that day was overwhelming and real. You undoubtedly have experienced much greater feelings of dread after learning about a personal health challenge, discovering a family member in difficulty or danger, or observing disturbing world events. In such instances, the distressing emotion of fear arises because of impending danger, uncertainty, or pain and through experiences that are unexpected, sometimes sudden, and likely to produce a negative outcome.
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๐ค General Authorities (Modern)
๐ค Parents
๐ค Friends
๐ค Children
๐ค Other
Agency and Accountability
Forgiveness
Honesty
Mercy
Parenting
Repentance
Perennial Radiance:Jean Sabin Groberg
Summary: In high school, Jean saw her older sister begin dating immediately at 16, but the same did not happen for her. She felt disappointment but enjoyed strong friendships with other girls. She later had a lot of fun dating in college.
Sister Groberg shared other memories about her high school friends. โThere was always a surplus of girls,โ she remembered, and then added, โand I was never in the real dating circle. I hardly had any dates in high school, and you know how youโd feel. The day my older sister who was always an example for me turned 16, a young man called her up, and for four nights in a row a different boy called. It was like they had all been waiting for her to turn 16. It was so exciting. I thought that was the magical thing: you turn 16 and you start dating. Well,โ Jean said, with emphasis, as though she was remembering it all over again, โit didnโt happen when I turned 16.โ She paused a moment, reflecting on what must have been a very disappointing experience.
โAnd how did you survive that situation?โ I asked.
โOh, I had a lot of good girl friends, and we had a lot of funโ she said, then thoughtfully added, โI never feel badly if a girl doesnโt have dates in high school. If youโre just a little patient, you can still have a good time. I really had fun dating in college, a lot of fun.โ
โAnd how did you survive that situation?โ I asked.
โOh, I had a lot of good girl friends, and we had a lot of funโ she said, then thoughtfully added, โI never feel badly if a girl doesnโt have dates in high school. If youโre just a little patient, you can still have a good time. I really had fun dating in college, a lot of fun.โ
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๐ค Youth
๐ค Young Adults
๐ค Friends
Dating and Courtship
Friendship
Patience
Young Women
Participatory Journalism:The Lord Has Told Me It Is Right
Summary: Before his medical school entrance exam, the narrator prayed, asking God to use the exam result to guide his decision about a mission. He passed and then experienced many blessings, including family health, academic success, a Church calling, and his sisterโs renewed activity. He took these as signs that his path was then to pursue medical school.
About a year later, just before I was to take the long-awaited entrance test to medical school, the Lord called me again. This time I resolved to pray about it. I told the Lord that the result of the test would be the answer to my doubts. If I passed, I would understand that my mission would be medical school; if I failed, a proselyting mission would be what he wanted from me.
I passed the entrance exam. Blessings were poured upon me in an avalanche. My father changed to a better-paying job, which he needed to pay for my expensive studies. The lessons in medical school entered my mind with incredible ease, and I became an outstanding student. I became engaged to a wonderful LDS girl, even though she lived 360 miles away and we met just a few times a year. Good health, so seldom enjoyed before, became steady in my family. I was called to be a counselor in the Campinas Stake Sunday School presidency. Through the efforts of the home teachers, my younger sister became active again in seminary. The Lord was blessing us abundantly.
I passed the entrance exam. Blessings were poured upon me in an avalanche. My father changed to a better-paying job, which he needed to pay for my expensive studies. The lessons in medical school entered my mind with incredible ease, and I became an outstanding student. I became engaged to a wonderful LDS girl, even though she lived 360 miles away and we met just a few times a year. Good health, so seldom enjoyed before, became steady in my family. I was called to be a counselor in the Campinas Stake Sunday School presidency. Through the efforts of the home teachers, my younger sister became active again in seminary. The Lord was blessing us abundantly.
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๐ค Young Adults
๐ค Parents
๐ค Church Members (General)
๐ค Church Leaders (Local)
Dating and Courtship
Doubt
Education
Employment
Faith
Family
Health
Ministering
Miracles
Prayer
Revelation
Service
Testimony
Follow the King
Summary: A grandfather was awakened at 4 a.m. by his young grandson who had thrown up. He cleaned and resettled the two sleepy boys. Several days later at breakfast, the grandson called him the greatest and 'goodest' man, teaching the narrator that service fosters love.
One morning at four oโclock my little grandson awakened me and said, โGrandpa, I throwed up.โ I was pleased that he had come to meโnot to his mother or father or grandmother, but to me.
I went with him to the bedroom where he and his brother had been sleeping. It was a mess. I gave two little boys a shower, then reclothed, and relocated them. They were both staggering around sleepily.
Afterward I lay in my bed, smiling. It had been an experience full of good cheer and appreciation.
Several days later, at the breakfast table, my grandson said, between mouthfuls of cereal, โGrandpa, I think you are the greatest man in the whole world.โ
I said, โWell, certainly one of the best looking, but maybe not the greatest.โ But he didnโt laugh. He said, โAnd the goodest.โ
That little fellow was overgenerous to me, but he understood something very important, something the Savior taught: In serving and being served, we really do learn to love each other.
I went with him to the bedroom where he and his brother had been sleeping. It was a mess. I gave two little boys a shower, then reclothed, and relocated them. They were both staggering around sleepily.
Afterward I lay in my bed, smiling. It had been an experience full of good cheer and appreciation.
Several days later, at the breakfast table, my grandson said, between mouthfuls of cereal, โGrandpa, I think you are the greatest man in the whole world.โ
I said, โWell, certainly one of the best looking, but maybe not the greatest.โ But he didnโt laugh. He said, โAnd the goodest.โ
That little fellow was overgenerous to me, but he understood something very important, something the Savior taught: In serving and being served, we really do learn to love each other.
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๐ค Children
๐ค Other
Charity
Children
Family
Service
Samuel D. Chambers
Summary: In 1874, Church Patriarch John Smith blessed Samuel with promises of long life, material prosperity, and remembrance among the Saints if he remained faithful. Decades later, those promises were clearly realized, as he enjoyed prosperity, a lasting reputation, and remarkable longevity.
Samuel and Amanda were further integrated into the faith on September 5, 1874, when Church Patriarch John Smith pronounced patriarchal blessings upon their heads. He promised that if Samuel were faithful he would live a long life (Samuel was then 43 and he lived another 55 years after this blessing), would prosper materially, and his name would be held in remembrance among the Saints.
That Samuel held no priesthood office did not diminish his Church activity. His faithfulness is proven by the fact that the reputation, prosperity, and longevity promised in his patriarchal blessing clearly came to pass. For 85 years he maintained his faith in the message of Mormonism: from conversion as a slave boy, to faithfulness for 26 years in Mississippi without contact with the Church, to choosing on his own to come to Utah, to steadfastness during periods of Church history when many Saints fell away. Enduring to the end, Samuel passed away on November 9, 1929, at the age of 98 years, joining his Amanda who died four years before.
That Samuel held no priesthood office did not diminish his Church activity. His faithfulness is proven by the fact that the reputation, prosperity, and longevity promised in his patriarchal blessing clearly came to pass. For 85 years he maintained his faith in the message of Mormonism: from conversion as a slave boy, to faithfulness for 26 years in Mississippi without contact with the Church, to choosing on his own to come to Utah, to steadfastness during periods of Church history when many Saints fell away. Enduring to the end, Samuel passed away on November 9, 1929, at the age of 98 years, joining his Amanda who died four years before.
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๐ค General Authorities (Modern)
๐ค Church Members (General)
Adversity
Conversion
Death
Endure to the End
Faith
Patriarchal Blessings
Priesthood
Testimony
Ladylyn V.
Summary: A youth describes fear when a nearby inactive volcano suddenly erupted, darkening the sky with ash and causing aftershocks. The family went to stay at the church building, where the presence of many others brought comfort. While sheltering, the youth served and ministered to those arriving for safety, learning to be generous daily, not only during disasters.
There are inactive volcanoes near where I live, but recently one erupted. We were all really shocked when it happened. The sky was gloomy and dark, and there were lots of ashes falling from the sky. I was afraid, because we live in a pretty safe place and usually donโt have natural disasters. The scariest part was the aftershocks that came after the volcano erupted.
When the volcano erupted, my family went to stay at the church. There were lots of people staying there, which helped me not be scared. I was happy to see so many people because then I knew that they were safe.
While we were staying in the church, it was really nice to serve and minister to other people who were coming in to stay and escape the danger. I liked being able to serve without expecting anything in return. It reminded me that we need to make good decisions every day and be generous to everyone, not just in times of natural disasters but each day.
When the volcano erupted, my family went to stay at the church. There were lots of people staying there, which helped me not be scared. I was happy to see so many people because then I knew that they were safe.
While we were staying in the church, it was really nice to serve and minister to other people who were coming in to stay and escape the danger. I liked being able to serve without expecting anything in return. It reminded me that we need to make good decisions every day and be generous to everyone, not just in times of natural disasters but each day.
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๐ค Youth
๐ค Parents
๐ค Church Members (General)
Adversity
Charity
Emergency Response
Ministering
Service