Lesson Review 12/6/2015

This past Sunday, Dec. 6^th, we had the opportunity to hear from Sister Brande Juber, Relief Society President.  She gave a lesson on Christ-like attributes: Forgiving, Wise, Humble, Loving, Merciful, Patient, Accepting, Teacher, Healer, All-knowing, Honest, Courageous, Faithful, Gentle, Fair, Generous, Pure and Holy, Thoughtful, Obedient, Tolerant and Understanding.  She had several people share their experiences of people they knew personally that emulated these Christ-like attributes.  It is inspiring and motivating to be around those with these qualities.  When we are around them, we have a desire to be like them, to have these Christ-like qualities.

President George Cannon encouraged us to pray to God to give us these gifts, these Christ-like attributes.  All of us are imperfect and it is our duty to pray for the gift that will make us perfect.  We should not just be content to be baptized and be members of the Church, and to rest there.  President Cannon goes on to say, ” No man ought to say, ‘Oh, I cannot help this; it is my nature.’ He is not justified in it, for the reason that God has promised to give strength to correct these things, and to give gifts that will eradicate them. If a man lack wisdom, it is his duty to ask God for wisdom. The same with everything else.”

Christ-like attributes are gifts from God. They come as you use your agency righteously. Ask your Heavenly Father to bless you with these attributes; you cannot develop them without His help. With a desire to please God, recognize your weaknesses and be willing and anxious to improve.

Ether 12:27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness.  I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.

Lesson Review 11/8/15

Principles of Temporal and Spiritual Welfare

Taught by Gaye Frandsen

"In 1936, as people all over the world struggled with the economic challenges of the Great Depression, the First Presidency introduced a new welfare program. This program, called the Church Security Plan, was established not to provide handouts for people in need but “to help the people to help themselves.” As the First Presidency and other Church leaders established this program, they taught foundational principles of hard work, self-reliance, and service. They encouraged Church members to pay tithing and fast offerings, produce and store food, avoid unnecessary debt, and save money for future needs."

"It is important that we keep our thinking straight, my brothers and sisters. Let us ever keep in mind that all material things are but a means to an end, that the end is spiritual, although the Lord is anxious and willing to bless his people temporally. He has so indicated in many of the revelations. He has pointed out, time and time again, that we should pray over our crops, over our livestock, over our households, our homes, and invoke the Lord’s blessings upon our material affairs. And he has promised that he will be there and ready and willing to bless us...

"...The Lord will not do for us what we can and should do for ourselves. But it is his purpose to take care of his Saints. Everything that concerns the economic, social, and spiritual welfare of the human family is and ever will be the concern of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."

What do you get out of a good days work?

-satisfaction 

-knowledge, able to become more efficient 

-a sense of relief

How do you teach your kids to work?

-work with them

-it helps if they are excited to learn

- be an example

-attitude (be excited to teach them, but it is also okay for them to know it isn't always fun!)

-teach them independence 

What are some things we can do/have to be prepared?

-build up a food/water storage

-have a 72-hour kit for your family 

-grow your own garden (produce your own food)

-get out of debt/ live within your means

-build up your savings

"Be faithful, my brothers and sisters, to this counsel and you will be blessed—yes, the most blessed people in all the earth. You are good people. I know that. But all of us need to be better than we are. Let us be in a position so we are able to not only feed ourselves through the home production and storage, but others as well"

Sister Frandsen ended by challenging us to be a little better. Find something you can do (build up more food storage, give more at fast offerings, save more, spend less, etc.) this moth to be better! We all need to be ready and there is always more we can do. 

https://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-ezra-taft-benson/chapter-21-principles-of-temporal-and-spiritual-welfare?lang=eng

Next week:

https://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-ezra-taft-benson/chapter-22-carrying-the-gospel-to-the-world?lang=eng

Lesson Review 11/1/15

Simplicity in Discipleship
Taught by Jana Bishop

What is a disciple?
-follower of Christ
-believer
-one who testifies of Christ
-serves others
-an example to others
-devoted to the Savior

"A long history of inspired voices … point you toward the path of Christian discipleship. It is a strait path, and it is a narrow path without a great deal of latitude at some points, but it can be thrillingly and successfully traveled, “with … steadfastness in Christ, … a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men.” In courageously pursuing such a course, you will forge unshakable faith, you will find safety against ill winds that blow, even shafts in the whirlwind, and you will feel the rock-like strength of our Redeemer, upon whom if you build your unflagging discipleship, you cannot fall."
-Jeffrey R Holland, "The Cost and Blessings of Discipleship", April 2014 General Conference

“Faith never demands an answer to every question but seeks the assurance and courage to move forward, sometimes acknowledging, ‘I don’t know everything, but I do know enough to continue on the path of discipleship. Immersing oneself in persistent doubt, fueled by answers from the faithless and the unfaithful, weakens one’s faith in Jesus Christ and the restoration. ‘The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him.’ … In a future day, you will have 100 times more information than from all of today’s search engines combined, and it will come from our all-knowing Father in Heaven.”
– Elder Neil L. Andersen, “Faith is not by Chance, but by Choice”, Priesthood Session, October 2015 General Conference

It is okay to have questions, the important thing is to go to the right sources to find the answers! The Internet is full of lies and half-truths. If we have questions, what tools do we have to help find the answers?
-scriptures
-temple
-conference talks
-go to church (go to all your meetings)
-church leaders
-Holy Ghost

"If you ever think that the gospel isn't working so well for you, I invite you to step back, look at your life from a higher plane, and simplify your approach to discipleship. Focus on the basic doctrines, principles, and applications of the gospel. I promise that God will guide and bless you on your path to a fulfilling life, and the gospel will definitely work better for you."
-Pres Uchtdorf, "It Works Wonderfully" Oct 2015 General Conference

November Relief Society Activity

When: Wednesday, November 11th 7:00pm (Veterans Day!)

Where: Church Cultural Hall

What: Making Freezer meals for our amazing military families!

Please come show appreciation for our ward family who are serving our country!

November Newsletter

Lesson Review 10/18/15

Feed My Sheep

Taught by Angie Murdock

How does the gospel affect your life?

-gives a sure foundation, be grounded

-comfort, joy, and peace

-a place to belong

"In Jesus’ time, the Palestinian shepherd knew each of his sheep. The sheep knew his voice and trusted him. They would not follow a stranger. Thus, when called, the sheep would come to him. (See John 10:1–5, 14.)

"At night, the shepherds would lead their sheep to a corral or a sheepfold. High walls surrounded the sheepfold, and thorns were placed on top of the walls to prevent wild animals and thieves from climbing over. Sometimes, however, a wild animal driven by hunger would leap over the walls into the midst of the sheep, frightening and threatening them.

"Such a situation separated the true shepherd—one who loved his sheep—from the hireling who worked only for pay out of duty. The true shepherd was willing to give his life for the sheep. He would go in among the sheep and fight for their welfare. The hireling, on the other hand, valued his own personal safety above the sheep and would usually flee from the danger."

What are the qualities of a True Shepherd?

-love

-knows each sheep by name

-protection, safety

-trust and loyalty 

-a good leader

Think of people in your life that you can reach out to. Pray for them this week! Remember that the purpose of the gospel is to bring ourselves and others back to Christ. The best way to do this is through love. 

"...We must all learn to be true shepherds. We must manifest the same love to others that the Good Shepherd has for all of us. Each soul is precious to Him. His invitation beckons every member -every son and daughter of God...  As you earnestly strive to accomplish this worthy goal, we urge you to give renewed emphasis to effective priesthood home teaching and effective Relief Society visiting teaching. Home teaching and visiting teaching are inspired programs. They are designed to reach each member of the Church each month, both the active and the less active. Please give home teaching and visiting teaching an increased emphasis."

https://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-ezra-taft-benson/chapter-20-feed-my-sheep?lang=eng

Next week: Stake Conference                                                                                                        
Saturday Adult Sessions at 5pm and 7:30pm                                                                                  
Sunday General Session at 10am   

Church Location & Time Change - EFFECTIVE 11/1/15

Just a reminder that we will be moving to the new Stake Center on Porters Crossing starting November 1st.  Our church time will also change to 12:30 beginning on that date.

Lesson Review 10/11/15

Leadership
Taught by Gaye Frandsen

When you think of leadership, who do you think of?
-bishop
-prophet
-Christ
-parents
-RS president
-stake president
-apostles
-Kal 

Who is Kal? Kal is one of Sister Frandsen's work supervisors that still to this day she absolutely loves! He was a wonderful leader and knew how to bring their team together. One time when they were really busy and started to break down, Kal had his team do a "Festivas." During Festivas, each member of Kal's team shared what was stressing them out. After everyone shared, they all were feeling better just by sharing and relating to each other, but then Kal took his turn. Instead of sharing what was stressing him, he shared the reasons each person on the team was needed and why they were wonderful to work with! He lead with love and brought unity to the team.

What are some common values of good leaders?
-selfless
-humble
-strong testimony
-good example
-loving
-strength
-overcame hard trials that have made them better
-makes people stretch and grow
-creates loyally and unity

Christ is our ultimate example of leadership. "The power of Christ’s leadership grew from the challenge of His example. His clarion call was, “Come, follow me!” … His [success in gaining] the loyalty and devotion of men to principles of righteousness depend[ed] upon love as the great motivating factor. He helped us realize that the godlike qualities in each of us clamoring for expression can become glorious living realities. His example continues as the greatest hope and strength of mankind."

Sister Frandsen closed by challenging each of us to do one this week that will bring us closer to Christ. Strengthen your relationship with Him! He loves you and if you come unto Him, He will be able to lead you to where you need to be.

https://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-ezra-taft-benson/chapter-19-leadership?lang=eng

Next week's lesson:
https://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-ezra-taft-benson/chapter-20-feed-my-sheep?lang=eng

October Newsletter

Spotlight: Sarah Hales

Sarah and her family moved here this summer from Cincinnati, Ohio.  She was born in Kentucky and grew up in Ohio.  Her husband's name is Scott and she has 4 children: Connor (10), Emily (8), Ella (6), and Lucy (1).  She plays the piano and is serving wonderfully as one of our ward organists!  She enjoys crafting, gardening, music, and reading.  She also teaches beginning piano lessons.  Her favorite color is blue and her favorite foods are pizza and Cincinnati Chili -- you'll have to make that for us sometime Sarah because I have no idea what it is ;)!

Stake Conference information

Just in case you somehow missed this letter like we did at our house :).

Jenny Phillips Stake Youth Fireside

October Visiting Teaching Message

Here is a link to the October visiting teaching message: https://www.lds.org/ensign/2015/10/divine-attributes-of-jesus-christ-filled-with-charity-and-love?lang=eng

Remember how important your calling as a visiting teacher is. Your sisters need you!  Let's try to reach out early this month to make sure everyone gets a visit!

October Relief Society Meeting activity - Wednesday, Oct. 14th, 7:00pm

Our activity for this month will be cleaning the nursery toys.  Meet at 7:00 at our church building.  Refreshments will be provided.  Unfortunately, because the toys will all be occupied, we won't be able to provide childcare this month.  Thank you for your willingness to serve our ward Primary!

September 20 Lesson Review

Beware of Pride

Taught by Angie Murdock

Sister Murdock began by asking us what or how do we define "Pride"?

-thinking you're better than someone else

-selfish (the opposite of charity)

-always being right

-compare yourself to others

-ungrateful 

-fear man more than God

-not forgiving, holding a grudge

-taking offense

-my will vs. God's will

-competitive 

-argues/contention 

"Pride is a sin that can readily be seen in others but is rarely admitted in ourselves. Most of us consider pride to be a sin of those on the top, such as the rich and the learned, looking down at the rest of us. (See 2 Ne. 9:42.) There is, however, a far more common ailment among us—and that is pride from the bottom looking up. It is manifest in so many ways, such as faultfinding, gossiping, backbiting, murmuring, living beyond our means, envying, coveting, withholding gratitude and praise that might lift another, and being unforgiving and jealous."

Satan doesn't care how much or how little you think of yourself, just as long as you ARE thinking of yourself. When you are full of pride, your happiness is dependent on others. Only with the Lord can we be truly happy. "Don't worry about the world's opinion of you as long as you're right with the Lord." Remember that and don't forget it! We need to not have pride in ourselves, but pride in the Lord, we need to be humble, and we need to approach everything in the right attitude. 

Sister Murdock encouraged us to pick something on the list above that we struggle with and work on it this week. None of us are perfect and we all have challenges, but if we apply the atonement into our lives and allow Heavenly Father to be in control, we can become better!

"The proud depend upon the world to tell them whether they have value or not. Their self-esteem is determined by where they are judged to be on the ladders of worldly success. They feel worthwhile as individuals if the numbers beneath them in achievement, talent, beauty, or intellect are large enough. Pride is ugly. It says, “If you succeed, I am a failure.”

"If we love God, do His will, and fear His judgment more than men’s, we will have self-esteem."

https://www.lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-ezra-taft-benson/chapter-18-beware-of-pride?lang=eng

September Visiting Teaching

Just a reminder that our Stake Presidency has asked us to reach 100% visiting teaching this month! We have been asked to share the second half of the training on the Sabbath day - specifically on Sabbath day observance in our homes. Here is the link directly to the video and message we have been asked to share:

 http://www.emues.org/sabbath-day-trainings/sabbath-day-in-the-home/

Thank you for fulfilling your callings as visiting teachers so well!

September 6th Lesson Review

Annette's Lesson was on "The Proclamation to the World."  We watched and listened to President Hinckley read it aloud from a previous General Conference address.  The proclamation was issued 20 years ago this month.  Little did we know at that time, how important that document would become.

"I believe this is the best season for women in all the history of the world.  In opportunities for education, for the training of your hands and minds, there has never before been a time when doors were so widely open to you as they are today.

But neither has there been a time at least in recent history, when you have been confronted with more challenging problems.  I need not remind you that the world we are in is a world of turmoil, or shifting values.  Shrill voices call out for one thing or another in betrayal of time-tested standards of behavior.  The moral moorings of our society have been badly shaken."  (President Hinckley, "Stand Strong against the Wiles of the World.")

Why is Satan trying so hard to break up the family?

•     So that we don't feel connected to anyone in this world.  So we feel lost and alone.
•     There is strength in numbers.  When you have just one toothpick, it is very easy to break, but       bundle many together and it becomes impossible to break.

After we watched the video clip of President Hinckley reading the Proclamation, we talked about what things stuck out to us as we heard it read from the prophet's mouth.

•     Families are Eternal
•     We need to be defenders of the family 
•     The Proclamation is a standard that we all need to live for and strive for regardless of what our current standards are.  Satan would have us believe that because of individual circumstances, the traditional family is not possible for us.
• The disintegration of the family will bring about the calamities foretold by the ancient prophets.

There are 3 main principles taught in the Proclamation.

1. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God.
2. The Divine Roles of Mothers and Fathers
3. Sanctity of the Home

We talked about how to make our homes more sacred.

• Communicate
• Speak softly
• Provide a good Environment
• Spend individual time with our children
• pray daily with our children
• read scriptures together
• build family traditions

"You are the guardians of the hearth.  You are the bearers of the children.  You are they who nurture them and establish within them the habits of their lives.  No other work reaches so close to divinity as does the nurturing of the sons and daughters of God."  (President Hinckley, "Stand Strong against the Wiles of the World.)

September Newsletter