Category Archives: Gospel Living

Aug 2 2021

Living the Gospel: Lesson Ideas

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Table of Contents

Friend March 2017 “Love Your Neighbor” Board game about showing kindness to people by living the gospel.

The Lord’s ways are higher than my ways.

Isaiah 55:7–9

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 50–57”

Draw on the board the sky and the ground, and label them Heavens and Earth. Then invite the children to read Isaiah 55:9 to find out what the Lord compared to the heavens and the earth, and ask them to add these other labels to the drawings. What does it mean that the Lord’s ways and thoughts are “higher” than ours? Why is it important to know this?

Heavenly Father sees and knows all things. He can help us get to a higher place so we can see as well.

Photo by TANSU TOPUZOĞLU

When we are up high we can see more. We can see which way to go to move away from difficult places and get to safe places.

Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz
  • Discuss with the children some of the Lord’s ways that are higher than our ways. For example, what is His way of treating sinners? (see Mark 2:15–17). What is His way of leading others? (see Matthew 20:25–28). How are His ways different from the ways of others? Tell the children how you have learned to trust the Lord’s higher ways and thoughts.

Activity: Print the scriptures below (on colored paper.) Cut them out. Tape them onto the board or hand them out to children.

Read a situation below and then have the children tell what the world’s way is and write that on the ground that is drawn on the board. Have the children look at the scripture cards and have them find the Lord’s way for the situation. Discuss why the Lord’s way is higher and better. Have a child tape that scripture card on the board in the sky. Continue until all scripture cards are on the board.

Friend February 1989

1 Your friends have invited you to a movie. When you get there, you realize that it is not a good, wholesome one. Your friends decide to see it anyway. What choice will you make?

2 Someone wants you to try drugs, smoke, or drink alcoholic beverages, saying that using such things will make you feel good. Will you do it to see if he is right?

3 You break the cookie jar while getting some cookies. Your mother asks you what happened. Will you avoid the blame by telling her that you don’t know who broke it?

4 Some of your friends swear. Will you swear, too, so that you can be more acceptable to the group?

5 Your friends invite you to go to the circus on Sunday after your church meetings are over. What will you tell them?

6 You don’t know an answer on a test at school. You promised your parents that you would try to get a good grade. Will you look at your neighbor’s paper for the right answer?

7 You earn some money to buy a new toy. When you go to pay for it, it costs more than you thought. Will you add your tithing money to what you have saved so that you can buy the toy?

8 Someone tells you some gossip about a friend. Will you pass it on to your other friends?

9 You’re very tired and get into bed before remembering to pray. Will you skip praying for one night?

10 Your brother is being mean and teasing you, and you want to get even with him. What will you do?

11 Your mother asks you to do your chores. Your friends just called you to play a game of ball. Which will you do first?

12 You see a student put some money into his desk at school. Will you take it so that you can buy some candy on the way home?

Isaiah 51–52

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 50–57” In Isaiah 51 and 52, the Lord used phrases like “awake,” “stand up,” and “put on thy strength” to inspire His people to live up to their divine potential. Consider how these phrases could inspire the children you teach.

  • Before class, write on the board several phrases from Isaiah 51–52 that express actions the Lord wanted His people to do, such as “Lift up your eyes,” “Awake,” “Stand up,” “Shake thyself from the dust,” and “Break forth into joy” (Isaiah 51:6, 17; 52:2, 9). Let the children take turns acting out one of the phrases while the rest of the class tries to guess what the action is. After each turn, show the children the phrase in the scriptures, and discuss with them the spiritual meaning of the phrase. What is the Lord asking us to do? How can we do each of these things?
  • Invite the children to read Isaiah 51:1, 4, 7 and identify who the Lord is speaking to and what He wants them to do. What does it mean to “hearken unto” the Lord? To illustrate, ask one of the children to give simple instructions that the others have to follow. Why is it sometimes hard to listen to and obey the Lord? How can we show the Lord that we “hearken unto” Him?

Friend August 2020 “Let God Prevail!” President Russel M. Nelson tells what it means to let God prevail in our lives.

I can build on a strong foundation by following Jesus.

Matthew 7:24–27

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 6–7” Using the Savior’s parable about building a house on sand or on a rock can be a memorable way to teach children about the importance of acting on what we learn.

The Wise Man and the Foolish Man Explain that “the wise man built his house upon the rock” means that wise man built his life upon the teachings of Jesus. The foolish man didn’t and his house (life) fell apart in the storms of life. Discussion Ideas: What things in our life are like the rain and wind? How does following Jesus’s teachings protect us and make our faith strong as a house built on a rock? Song: “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man” (Children’s Songbook, 281) Scripture: Matthew 7:24–29

Friend March 2015 “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man”

Rock Art: Choose a smooth rock. With a marker or paint, write “Jesus Christ” on it. Talk about why it’s so important to build our lives on His teachings. Keep the rock in a place where you can see it often.

  • Use Matthew 7:24–27 to teach about the differences between the wise man and the foolish man. Invite the children to pretend they are building a house. How can we be like the wise man?
  • Let the children draw pictures of the parable of the wise man and the foolish man.

Friend March 2018 “Food and Fun: Wisdom Rocks” Put a wise thought or scripture on a rock to inspire you.

Friend March 2015
Friend March 2015 Wise man & Foolish man

Come, Follow Me—For Sunday School: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 6–7” To visualize this parable, class members could work together to build a strong foundation using blocks, cups, or other materials and then test the strength of their foundations. Perhaps they could also label their building materials with things they can do to apply the Savior’s teachings. How could doing these things help us withstand the storms of life?

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 6-7”

To help your family better understand the Savior’s parable of the wise man and the foolish man, you could let them pour water on sand and then on a rock. How can we build our spiritual foundations on a rock?

Jesus wants me to be righteous in my actions and my desires.

Matthew 23:25–28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12” Jesus taught the scribes and Pharisees about the importance of truly living the gospel—not just pretending to be righteous. What would help the children understand this truth?

  • As you read Matthew 23:25–28 with the children, consider sharing this definition of hypocrite from the Bible Dictionary: “One who pretends to be religious when he is not.” Why is it bad to be a hypocrite?
  • Show the children a cup that is clean on the outside but dirty on the inside to help illustrate the metaphor in Matthew 23:25. How can we make sure we are clean and pure on the inside?

“Lesson 20: ‘Woe unto You, … Hypocrites’” New Testament: Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual  Explain that Jesus compared the Pharisees to a cup that is clean outside but dirty inside (Matthew 23:25–26). The Pharisees paid a great deal of attention to outward ordinances and actions that would make them appear righteous, but they were not as concerned with actually being righteous in their hearts. For this Jesus referred to them as hypocrites. This lesson will discuss the Savior’s condemnation of hypocrites—people who try to appear righteous but who do not try to live righteously.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained, “[Jesus] rose up in righteous anger against hypocrites like the scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees—those who tried to appear righteous in order to win the praise, influence, and wealth of the world, all the while oppressing the people they should have been blessing” (“On Being Genuine,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 81).

I can seek the Lord through living the gospel

Hosea 10:12

Hosea 10:12 uses the images of sowing, reaping, time, and rain to invite us to seek the Lord. As you read this verse, what creative ideas come to mind that could inspire the children to seek Him?

  • Read Hosea 10:12 to the children, and invite them to do simple actions to help them understand the verse, such as pretending to plant seeds, pick vegetables from a plant, or stand in the rain. Or show pictures of seeds, plants, and rain. Help the children compare planting a seed and reaping good food to living righteously and receiving the Lord’s blessings. Testify of the blessings the Lord has rained upon you as you have tried to seek Him.

Print and cut out the below visual aids.

Friend September 2016
Friend September 2016

Latter Day Kids “Law of the Harvest”

  • Draw a clock on the board, and ask the children to share ways we can seek the Lord at different times of the day. Invite the children to repeat with you the phrase “It is time to seek the Lord” (Hosea 10:12). Help them understand that it is always time to seek the Lord. Share what you do to remember Him all the time.

Printable clock with movable arms

Children might enjoy drawing a clock and planning ways they can seek the Lord at different times throughout the day.

Friend February 2012 Some images of times to remember the Lord

I can live righteously despite the wickedness around me.

Mormon 1:1–3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mormon 1–6: “I Would That I Could Persuade All … to Repent”

Before reading the story, invite the children to listen for how old Mormon was when Ammaron gave him a special mission. Then ask them to hold up that many fingers. To help the children imagine how young Mormon was, show them a picture of someone who is 10 years old. Help them understand the qualities that Ammaron saw in Mormon when he was young, and testify that the children can be like Mormon as they follow Jesus Christ.

  • What does it mean to be “quick to observe”?

Ensign, Dec. 2006 “Quick to Observe” Quick to observe in the scriptures has two meanings. The first means “to look” or “to see” or “to notice.” The second suggests “to obey” or “to keep.” For example: “But blessed are they who have kept the covenant and observed the commandment, for they shall obtain mercy” (D&C 54:6;). So, quick to observe means quick to see and quick to obey.

What righteous qualities do you see in the children you teach?

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mormon 1–6: “I Would That I Could Persuade All … to Repent”

Mormon 2:18–19

What words did Mormon use to describe the world he lived in? How did he maintain hope despite the wickedness around him?

Beginning in the first chapter of Mormon, you will notice major differences between Mormon and the people around him. As you read Mormon 1, consider contrasting the qualities and desires of Mormon with those of his people. Note the consequences that came to him and them (you’ll find one example in verses 14–15). What do you learn that inspires you to live righteously in a wicked world?

Mormon 5:16–18

To help your family visualize what it means to be “driven about as chaff before the wind” (verse 16), tear a piece of paper into small pieces and let family members blow them around. Explain to them that chaff is a husk that comes off a seed, and it is light enough to be blown around. How is being “without Christ and God in the world” (verse 16) like being chaff in the wind?

Friend November 2016

Friend November 2016

I Can Live the Gospel Even When It’s Difficult

Friend July 2021 “Vaha’i Tonga”Vahai’ was determined to remain faithful, so he said his prayers every night at boarding school. At first the other kids made fun of him, then they started to join him. He invited them to a district conference and 77 of them came. Seven of them wanted to be baptized after the conference.

I can be faithful even when others make fun of me. (Sr)

Jude 1:18–22

Ask children to share times when others made fun of them or someone they know because they did what is right. Invite the children to read Jude 1:18–22 and look for how we can remain faithful when others mock or make fun of us. Write what they find on the board, and discuss ways they can follow this advice. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

Summarize Lehi’s dream (see 1 Nephi 8:1–35), asking a few children to read verses from 1 Nephi 8:26–28, 33. Discuss how the people in the great and spacious building were like the mockers Jude talked about. What can we do to not be influenced by those who make fun of us or don’t agree with what we believe? (see 1 Nephi 8:30, 33). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1-3 John; Jude”)

People in a large building on the other side of the river made fun of those who ate the fruit. Some who had eaten the fruit became ashamed and left the tree.

I Can Live the Gospel Even Though I Am Small

Friend July 2021 “Little Things” Action Poem

Friend February 1987
Friend February 1987
Friend February 1987

Friend May 2022 “I Want to Live the Gospel” Song and Sing-Along Video

  • 1. I want to live the gospel,
  • To know that its teachings are true,
  • To follow the plan of my Savior
  • And live as He wants me to do.
  • 2. I want to live the gospel,
  • To know I am heard when I pray,
  • To know that I will be happy
  • Because I have learned to obey.
  • Chorus: I will try in all I do and say
  • To live the gospel more each day.
  • I will try in all I do and say
  • To live the gospel more each day.

Living the Gospel Brings Happiness

Matthew CHAPTER 5 Jesus preaches the Sermon on the Mount—Its teachings replace and transcend some aspects of the law of Moses—All are commanded to be perfect like their Father in Heaven.

Luke CHAPTER 6 Jesus heals on the Sabbath—He chooses the Twelve Apostles—He pronounces blessings upon the obedient and woes upon the wicked. Sermon on the Mount

I can be happy when I live the way Jesus taught.

Matthew 5:3–12

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 5; Luke 6” As you read Matthew 5:3–12, what words and phrases stand out to you? How will these teachings bless the lives of the children you teach?

Explain that the beginning of Jesus’s sermon includes what is known as the “Beatitudes.” Beatitude means to be blessed or happy. In these verses, Jesus identified attributes that He and His Father possess that lead to true happiness in this life and in the life to come. Developing these attributes will help you become more like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

  • Create a chart on the board with two columns labeled Blessed are … and Blessing. Invite the children to search Matthew 5:3–12 looking for the qualities of those Jesus said would be blessed and the blessings He promised them. Then fill in the chart with what they find. Discuss with the children what each quality and corresponding blessing mean.

Lesson 34: Jesus Teaches the Beatitudes (Click on link for instructions and printouts for this activity.)

image
  • Write each quality from these verses on a card and its corresponding blessing on a card. For example, one card would say “meek,” and another would say “inherit the earth” (verse 5). Let the children match the qualities and the blessings. Ask the children to pick one of the qualities in these verses that they want to develop.

Friend March 2019 “Sermon on the Mount” The scriptures teach us about a special talk (or “sermon”) that Jesus gave called the Sermon on the Mount. Look up the scriptures below and match them with what Jesus taught.

Friend April 2004 “If I Choose to Obey, I’ll Be Happy All Day!” In the Sermon on the Mount (see Matt. 5; 3 Ne. 12) Jesus taught us how to live so we can be happy. Some of these teachings are known as the Beatitudes. Beatitude means “happiness” or “blessing.” To make a Beatitude Book, glue page 29 onto a sheet of paper. Cut on the solid lines. Glue the second strip to the tab on the first strip. Fold back and forth on the dotted lines.

Friend March 1984 link includes instructions

Friend February 2023 “Scripture Toss” Put this page on the ground. Take turns tossing a beanbag onto the paper. When the beanbag lands on a square, read that scripture verse. If someone has already read that verse, tell what it means to you. Or you can tell how you can do what it teaches.

Friend February 2023 “How to Have Joy” When we follow Jesus Christ, we are blessed even in hard times. Read what Jesus promised us in Matthew 5 and fill in the blanks.

Friend February 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones”Tell your little ones that we are happy when we choose the right like Jesus did. Hang up a paper with a smiley face drawn on it. Add a smiley face each time your little ones make a “happy” choice.

Liahona February 2023 “Building on the Teachings of Jesus Christ”

Blessed by the Beatitudes

In Matthew 5, the Savior teaches His disciples a higher law to live by so they can become like Him.

  1. Read the beatitudes in Matthew 5:1–12. Talk about each characteristic and the promise that goes with it.
  2. Write each person’s name on a separate sheet of paper.
  3. Give each person a paper, making sure they don’t get one with their own name written on it.
  4. Have everyone draw a picture of a time when the person on their paper exemplified one of the beatitudes. Write a sentence about it. For example, “Hannah is a peacemaker because she shared with her sister.”
  5. Look up the blessing associated with that beatitude and write it at the bottom of the page.
  6. Take turns sharing what was written.

Lesson 38: Peace among the Nephites

When we live the gospel, we treat each other with love and kindness, and as a result we enjoy greater peace and happiness in our lives.

Print and cutout the words and faces . Show the children the words. Have them put the words they associate with happiness under the smiley face and words they associate with unhappiness under the sad face. Explain that after Jesus visited the Nephites, they lived his teachings and lived in happiness. According to 4 Nephi 1:16 there never was a happier people.

  • Fairness/Every man did deal justly one with another.
  • Sharing/They had all things common among them. (There were no poor.)What does it mean that the people had “all things common among them”? Each person gave the extra he produced (crops, flocks, etc), and this extra was used for those who were in need of help.
  • Healing/All manner of miracles did they work.  (Read 4 Nephi 1:5)  The miracles included healing the lame, the blind, the deaf, and raising the dead.)
  • Peace/There were no contentions, strifes, or tumults in the land.  (Meaning there was no fighting, arguing, riots, or war.)
  • Charity/The love of God … did dwell in the hearts of the people.
  • Goodwill/There were no envyings.  (There was no jealousy. There was only gladness that others were blessed.)
  • Honesty/There were no … lyings.
  • Safety/There were no robbers or murderers.
  • Virtue/There were no whoredoms nor any manner of lasciviousness (crude behavior). (The people were chaste and clean.)
  • Unity/ There were no divisions of race or class. (There was no manner of “ites.” The people were no longer divided into Nephites and Lamanites but were united.)

After nearly 200 years sin slowly started creeping into the land again. As the people let wickedness into their lives, it spread

The choices they made resulted in misery and unhappiness for many people. The words under the sad face is what occurred. If we are good examples to the people that are around us we can help people gain happiness in this life and in the life to come.

Friend February 2023 “Twelve Smiley Stickers” Antonio brings happiness to others as he serves them. He realizes he feels happy as well.

Becoming New Creatures

2 Corinthians 5:17.

Can your family think of or find examples in nature of things that go through remarkable transformations and become new creatures? (see the picture at the end of this outline). How can the gospel of Jesus Christ change us? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7)

Adorn Yourselves with Good Works

1 Timothy 2:9–10

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon” What does it mean to “adorn [ourselves] … with good works”? What are some good works our family could do this week? You might sing together a song about doing good, such as “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).

Good Works Fashion Show The family Come Follow Me manual had a super fun idea for a good works fashion show that we’re going to use. Our girls LOVE dressing up, so here’s how we’re planning on doing it:
Explain that 1 Timothy 2:9-10 tells us we should “adorn [ourselves]…with good works.” Summarize what
this means. How are we better examples to people when we do good works?

Come Follow Me For Kids

  • Set out a pile of fun clothing/jewelry/sunglasses.
  • Cut up the scenario pieces below and place them in a bowl or bag. Take turns drawing pieces out of the bowl/bag.
  • When the piece is pulled out, read it and ask: Is this a good/beautiful thing to do? If the answer is YES, then they can choose an item from the pile, tape the good work paper onto it, and wear that item.
  • Continue until all of the pieces have been talked about. After this, to earn any remaining items in the
    pile, family members can take turns stating additional good works they could do.
  • Wrap it up by reading D & C 25:15 and tell them to listen carefully for what kind of item we will receive if we follow the Lord and keep His commandments (a crown of righteousness). 2 Timothy 4:8 also
    mentions a “crown of righteousness.”
Oct 20 2020

Gospel Living: Children’s Experiences

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Table of Contents

Experiences of children under age five living the gospel (Hi, Friends)

(See links for photos, names, and ages)

Friend March 2024 “For Little Friends”

  • Easter, Resurrection: We have a special Easter egg for Jesus. His egg is empty because He is resurrected.
  • Family: My little brother cried because he missed our mom. I comforted him and helped him be calm.

Friend January 2024 “For Little Friends” “I felt scared to try a new food, so I said a prayer. I know Heavenly Father helped me be brave to try it.” Olivia C., age 4, Tennessee, USA

Friend November 2023 “For Little Friends”

  • Articles of Faith: I learned the first six Articles of Faith. Maia S., age 5, Málaga, Spain
  • Following Jesus: I follow Jesus when I help and pray for other people. Erick A., age 5, Nuevo León, Mexico

Friend October 2023 “For Little Friends”

  • I love my brother and sister. I get water for them when they are thirsty. Charles A., age 5, Central Region, Ghana

Friend September 2023 “For Little Friends”

  • Family prayer: I help my family remember to say prayers.

Friend July 2023 “For Little Friends”

  • Kindness: A girl was crying on the first day of school because she missed her mom. I held her hand, and she stopped crying.

Friend June 2023 “For Little Friends”

  • Modesty: I dress modestly to show respect to Heavenly Father and myself.
  • Service: I feel good when I help others!

Friend May 2023 “For Little Friends”

  • Service: I helped clean an orphanage. I feel happy when I serve! Richard E., age 4, Guárico, Venezuela
  • Family Service: I help my family by playing with my little brother, Pablo. Luciana M., age 3, Michoacán, Mexico

Friend April 2023

  • Temples: I like to build temples! Me and my papa look at the photos of the Salt Lake Temple renovation. Jack B., age 3
  • Family, Kindness: I help my sister learn new words. Ruth G., age 4

Friend January 2017 February 2018, April 2018,

June 2018 (Sharing at playground,  Helping with housework)

August 2018 (Family service and kindness)

October 2018 (likes the scriptures, helped with a blood drive, draws rainbows for mom when she’s sad).

March 2019 (donated toys to refugees, loves Jesus, likes being reverent)

May 2019 (Likes going to temple, helps mom, takes brownies to lonely or sick, picks up litter)

July 2019 (showing love and helping))

September 2019.  (being kind like Jesus, family sealed in temple,  obedience, learning from scripture stories, helping mom)

November 2019  (being kind to those who are feeling sad, being brave and giving a Primary talk, serving neighbor by pulling weeds)

February 2020 Helps dad by handing tools to him while fixing truck, says his prayers, paint temples on rocks and hides them in the park for people to find.

April 2020 Smiles at people to see if she can get them to smile back, likes to help bake cookies for neighbors, shares toys.

June 2020 Chooses right by helping mom, likes Book of Mormon story when Nephi tells his brothers to be nice and repent, likes reading about Jesus in Book of Mormon

August 2020

  • Tithing : I paid my tithing for the first time!
  • Love: I show love to others by giving hugs and kisses.
  • Friend Magazine: As friends, we read the entire Friend Junior together!
  • Fathers: We have daddy-daughter dates. I love my daddy!

October 2020

  • Kindness, Service: I give people hugs when they are sad to cheer them up!
  • Kindness, Caring: I like to wear my mask because it protects people from the sickness.

December 2020

  • Goals: I made goals to pray, share toys, eat healthy, and read. Gray, age 5, Rizal, Philippines
  • Family, Following Jesus: I like to help my little brother! I love following Jesus. Tory, age 4, Wyoming, USA

June 2021

  • Family History, Service: I help my mom index family history names. My job is to find the letters and numbers on the keyboard! TK C., age 5, Wyoming, USA

October 2021

  • Family, Service: I like to teach my sister, Franky, about numbers and letters.
  • Conference: I made a conference collage! Every time there was a new speaker, I put up a picture.
  • Service, Kindness: I like to give cards to people!

December 2021

  • Family: I like to sing to my sister to keep her from crying.
  • Sharing: I like to share with my family because sharing is caring!
  • Family, Helping: We like to help our mommy and daddy in the garden!

January 2022

  • Strengthening Family: I help my family remember to pray and read the Book of Mormon.
  • Prayer: Rock art

February 2022

  • Obedience, Following Jesus: I follow Jesus by being obedient. I go to bed when my mom tells me it’s time.
  • Jesus: I like to learn about Jesus and feel His love.

March 2022

  • Family: I like to help my older brother.
  • Temple, Families are Forever: I wore a white tie like my daddy when my family was sealed in the temple!

June 2022

July 2022

  • Family, Service: I helped my little sisters stay clean during COVID. I also help clean the street outside our home.
  • Following Jesus
  • Pioneers: I love the pioneers. They were hard workers. Their faith in Jesus Christ was big.

August 2022

  • Holy Ghost, Friend Magazine: We read one story from the Friend every day! It helps bring the Spirit into our home.
  • Words: I say polite words because I think Jesus would like me to.
  • Temple, Family Sealing: It was a great day when we were sealed to our parents in the temple!
  • Kindness, Sportsmanship: A boy on the other team fell at my soccer game. I helped him up and felt good inside.

Friend November 2022 “Hi Friends”

  • Conference: We cut out pictures of Jesus to make collages when we watched conference.
  • Prayer: I prayed to find my ball. After my prayer, I found it!

December 2022

  • Conference: We cut out pictures of Jesus to make collages when we watched conference.
  • Prayer: I prayed to find my ball. After my prayer, I found it!

Experiences of children over age five living the gospel (See photos at the links)

Friend April 2024 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Service: I served at the food bank with my family. I washed eggs, threw the cracked eggs away, and sorted frozen meat. I know Jesus teaches us to serve others. Saylor B., age 9, Oklahoma, USA
  • Family Service, Sabbath: I follow Jesus by helping my little sister get dressed on Sunday mornings. Malea R., age 9, with Estelle R., age 3, Lucerne, Switzerland
  • Testimony: My favorite part of church is when I bear my testimony because I feel like I am getting closer to Heavenly Father. Max S., age 7, Cautín Province, Chile
  • Prayer: I couldn’t find my eraser to correct my homework. I prayed to Heavenly Father for help, and soon I found it in my English class bag. Terry X., age 9, New Taipei City, Taiwan
  • Holy Ghost, Anger, Prayer: I get mad sometimes. I take deep breaths and say prayers to help me feel good inside. I know the Holy Ghost is that good feeling. Gwen S., age 7, New York, USA

Friend March 2024 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Easter, Resurrection: We love to color eggs and do an Easter egg hunt. There is always one plastic egg that is empty. It reminds us of the empty tomb after Jesus was resurrected! Eli W., age 6, California, USA
  • Easter, Resurrection: On Easter morning, we go to church and come back home to learn more about our Savior. We have 12 Easter eggs that represent things He did. The last egg is always empty because it represents that Jesus is risen! Scarlet A., age 10, New Mexico, USA
  • Talents: I have been playing the piano since I was five, and I practice a lot. I feel happy when I play the piano. I really like playing for my friends at their baptisms. Julián G., age 7, Maule, Chile
  • Baptism: I learned the Articles of Faith to prepare for my baptism. My parents helped me learn about the covenants I would make at my baptism. Logan M., age 9, Coahuila, Mexico
  • Friendship: My family moves a lot. I’ve learned how to make new friends in new places. I ask people if I can sit by them at lunch. I make friends when I ask questions and talk to others. Annie W., age 11, Capital Governorate, Bahrain

Friend February 2024 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Service, Disabilities: I help my elderly neighbor who has a disability. When I see her bringing in bags of groceries, I help her carry them. Bryan H., age 9, San José, Costa Rica
  • Sportsmanship, Adversity: I’m not very good at sports and don’t like competitive games. I’ve been trying to have a good attitude when I lose. Adelaide S., age 9, Georgia, USA
  • Prayer, Fear: I was nervous to perform a dance with my homeschool friends. I prayed for help to be brave. We went on stage and performed the dance. I know Heavenly Father gave me courage and helped me. Thoreau R., age 6, Nebraska, USA
  • Music: I feel Jesus’s love for me when I sing my favorite hymn. I try to follow in His footsteps by loving and helping others. Sophia A., age 7, Rondônia, Brazil]
  • Family, Following Jesus: I’m trying to be like Jesus by playing with my brother. Garrett N., age 8, California, USA

Friend February 2024 “Friends by Mail”

  • Family, Friend Magazine: Sometimes I read the Friend to my little brother before bed. It helps us feel peace so we can go to sleep easier. Stran B., age 11, with Stu B., age 9, Oregon, USA

Friend January 2024 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Testimony: I love to share my testimony in church on fast Sunday. It makes me feel good inside. I know it helps my testimony grow. Ruby B., age 10, Massachusetts, USA
  • Service: My friends and I like to bake treats and give them to our neighbors. We leave a little note to cheer them up. Then we ring the doorbell and run away fast! Alexis M., age 10, Maryland, USA
  • Family Service: My brother fell off the swing and started to cry. I helped him get up. We went to buy ice pops and sat on a bench to eat them together. I feel happy when I help others. Ethan M., age 8, Coahuila, Mexico
  • Sabbath: I was invited to a pool party on Sunday, but I chose not to go. I felt good because I was keeping the Sabbath day holy. Dez Z., age 11, Texas, USA
  • Prayer: I hit my head and hurt my eye. I asked my sister to say a prayer for me and felt calm after the prayer. I know prayer is a gift from Heavenly Father. Lydie O., age 6, Fort-de-France, Martinique
  • Creation: My family likes to visit special places God created near our home! Flor R., age 9, Mendoza, Argentina

Friend January 2024 “I Can Read the Scriptures”

Scriptures: When I go to church, I try to find a quiet room to read my scriptures. I feel happy inside when I read the scriptures. My favorite scripture story is when Jesus was born because I feel the Holy Ghost the most when I read it. Jack W., age 10, Bratislava, Slovakia

Friend October 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Remembering Jesus, Temples: Primary children in Cakaudrove, Fiji, put pictures of the Savior and the temple in their home.
  • Scriptures: I like to sit by my sister and look at the Book of Mormon storybook while she is reading her Book of Mormon. I pray to ask Heavenly Father to help me learn, and I thank Him for His help.
  • Prayer: I forgot my lunch for school. I calmed myself down and prayed for help to make it through the day. It helped me have a good rest of my day.
  • Primary: My first day going to senior Primary was a little scary at first, but I had a lot of fun! My class sat on the front row. I can’t wait to go to senior Primary again!
  • Service, Happiness: I feel happy when I help others!
  • Scriptures: I like to read the scriptures and underline them.
  • Service: I help my mom do chores like gathering the laundry. I try to do my best to serve others like Jesus.

Friend September 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Fellowshipping, blessings from serving: I am shy around new people. I knew there would be a new girl at a Primary activity. I said hi to her, and we talked for a while. The other girls also helped include her. It was so much fun! Our leaders were proud of us for helping her feel welcome, and it made me feel good.
  • Temple: I attended the Washington D.C. Temple open house. The temple was so beautiful! I met with my bishop to get a recommend so I could attend the rededication. It was very special and holy.
  • Service, Following Jesus: I helped my friend who uses a wheelchair move around the schoolyard. I felt that I helped like Jesus would because He always served others.
  • Prayer: I forgot to study for a religion test at school. I was nervous and felt I should say a prayer. When I read the first and second questions, they were about a topic I learned at Primary! I know Heavenly Father answers our prayers and listens to us.
  • Adversity: I have had many surgeries because I was born with hemifacial microsomia. It means half of my face is smaller than the other. I have learned from my challenges that Heavenly Father will always help me.

Friend August 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Baptism, Following Jesus: I chose to walk a new path and follow Jesus Christ when I was baptized. My baptism was simple but rich in emotions, and I felt new. I want to serve a full-time mission.
  • Following Jesus, Kindness, Family: I try to follow Jesus since I was baptized by being kind to my baby sister. I help by pushing her stroller. I feel happy when I am kind, and I know it makes Jesus happy too.
  • Service, Following Jesus: On Christmas Day my father and I delivered food to people without homes. It was fun! Following Jesus makes me feel happy.
  • Following Jesus: I follow Jesus by reading my scriptures and following His commandments.
  • Following Jesus: I follow Jesus by loving my family and being a little helper to my mom.
  • Holy Ghost: Whenever I pray, read the scriptures, or do something good, I feel happy. It feels like a hug by someone I love. I know it’s the Holy Ghost.
  • Holy Ghost: I feel the Holy Ghost when I am going through hard times. It helps me feel better.
  • Holy Ghost: I feel the Holy Ghost when I calm my mind and choose the right. When I am listening to my mom and dad, I can feel the Holy Ghost close.
  • Holy Ghost: The Holy Ghost feels warm and strengthening. The Holy Ghost is there for you when you need it, which makes it so special.
  • Holy Ghost: The Holy Ghost makes me feel happy, glad, and strong.
  • Baptism: When I was baptized, I felt cold because of the water. Then when I was done, I felt warm and clean. By being baptized I took a giant step toward Christ and our Heavenly Father.

Friend June 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Prayer: My favorite stuffed animal was missing. I looked for it and prayed for help. After a week, my brother found it. I remembered a Primary lesson about how God answers prayers. It can take a day, a week, or even 10 years, but He still answers our prayers.
  • Pioneers: My family and I went to the Nauvoo Illinois Temple. I thought of the pioneers who worked hard to build the temple and my ancestors who were forced to leave Nauvoo and cross the frozen Mississippi River. I’m not old enough to go inside the temple, but I feel close to my ancestors and the Holy Ghost whenever I am near it.
  • Disabilities, Family: I love being a big sister to Macy, who has Down syndrome. I like to push her on the swings at the park and help her climb the stairs to go down the slide!

Friend June 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Forgiveness: I forgave my friend for being mean to me and felt peace. I knew Jesus was pleased with my choice.
  • Service: I made muffins for a family when they were in quarantine. I felt happy to help others!
  • Kindness to Animals: I love taking care of my pets with my brother. Our guinea pigs like to be outside, and I pet them while they eat the grass in our backyard.
  • Missionary: I invited my friends and neighbors to my Primary program. It was nice to sing for them. I love Jesus and telling others about Him!
  • Fear: Sometimes at night I’m scared even when my service dog is lying next to me. When I think about Jesus and pray, I feel better.
  • Service: My ward gathered items for refugees. I gave my stuffed animals and felt the Holy Ghost. I’m glad I could help!
  • Scriptures: When I listen to the scriptures, I feel the Holy Ghost. I know Jesus loves us.

Friend April 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Adversity: I got a pet salamander just before my 11th birthday. I was super excited. Sadly, it died six months later. This was very hard for me, but remembering Jesus and why we have trials gave me comfort.
  • Service: I went with my grandma to give some bread to a lady who was sick. It made me happy to serve.
  • Testimony, Music: At school I was humming a song about Jesus. A friend heard me and said she listens to the same song. I can share my testimony of Jesus through music.
  • Easter: Art

Friend March 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Family: I’m trying to be kind and play with my little sister, and it’s been fun! I know being nice and showing love makes me, my family, and Heavenly Father happy.
  • Baptism: I felt very calm and happy when I was baptized.
  • Creation, Love of God: We visited the tulip fields near where we live. I felt my Savior’s love when I saw the bright, happy colors in the sunshine. I’m glad I live in this beautiful world!
  • Fear, Prayer, Holy Ghost: I was scared to take swim lessons. I said a prayer to help me be brave enough to learn to swim. The Holy Ghost is the best!
  • Service, Kindness, Disabilities: I have a classmate who is deaf. I sign words for her to help her in class. I feel warm inside when I help!
  • Nephi: I built Nephi’s boat out of craft sticks. I’m thankful for Nephi’s example.
  • Service: I pray often and try my best to help, even if it’s in a small way.

Friend February 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Temple: I can’t go in the temple yet, but I still feel close to my ancestors and the Holy Ghost whenever I am near the temple.
  • Service: I play the piano for my great-grandpa!
  • Scriptures, Book of Mormon, Adversity: When I feel lonely and afraid, I pray and read the Book of Mormon. It makes me feel closer to Heavenly Father. I know He will always be with me.
  • Service: I helped my grandma fill out her tithing form. I felt good I could help her.
  • Choosing the Right: There are kids on my bus who try to make me do bad things. But I choose to follow God and not do them, which makes me happy.
  • Prayer: I was on a hike with my family and began to feel sick. I prayed to Heavenly Father for help and was able to finish the hike!

Friend January 2023 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Kindness, Following Jesus: I help my friend at school with math. I try to follow the Savior by helping others.
  • Baptism: I prepared for my baptism by listening to the scriptures, reading the Friend, and praying. When I was baptized, I felt happier than I ever had before.
  • Family Home Evening: I like to teach the lesson for home evening.
  • Priesthood Blessing, Adversity: I got sick on a trip. My family prayed for me, I took some medicine, and my dad gave me a priesthood blessing. All of this helped me feel better!
  • Kindness: I’m nice to my friends and brother because it makes them happy, and it makes me happy too!

Friend December 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Christmas: I made scones in my cooking class at school. I delivered them with my brother and mum to our elderly neighbors for #LightTheWorld.
  • Christmas: Christmas makes me happy because I think about Jesus and Heavenly Father. I like to draw pictures and give them to my family for Christmas.
  • Service: I helped with a food drive in our city. I dropped off donation bags and later collected the bags when they were filled with food. Helping people makes me happy!

Friend October 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Talents, Adversity: I had more time during COVID-19 because school was closed. I decided to learn all the songs in the Children’s Songbook and the hymnbook. Now I can play any song, any time!
  • Baptism: My baptism was extra special to me because I was baptized in the same dress my sisters, mom, and aunts were baptized in.
  • Family: A boy pushed my little brother at school, so I helped my brother feel better. I look out for him and play with him at school.
  • Animals: Heavenly Father wants us to take care of animals. I have a pet tortoise who is a picky eater. I feed her no matter how hard it is.
  • Kindness: I gave one of my awards to a friend who was sad because she didn’t have an award.
  • Music: My favorite part of Primary is singing together. The songs bring the Spirit, and I feel Jesus’s love.

Friend September 2022 “For Older Kids”

Stand for the Right, Bullying: My friends were making fun of a younger kid at school. I told them to stop making fun of her.

Friend September 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Holy Ghost, Prayer: I studied for a math test and prayed I would do well. I forgot how to solve one problem. So I said a prayer for help. A few minutes later, I saw in my mind how to solve it. I said a silent prayer thanking Heavenly Father for help.
  • Fasting: I fasted for the first time! I felt the Holy Ghost.
  • Prayer: There was a tornado where I live. I prayed that it wouldn’t hit our house. In the morning, we saw branches everywhere! People from our ward came and helped clean up. I thanked Heavenly Father for helping us be safe.
  • Priesthood Blessing: I got sick on a trip and received a blessing. I had faith I would be healed and was able to enjoy the rest of the trip with my family.
  • Love of God: I have been frustrated with school and the pandemic, but Heavenly Father has helped me be calm. I know Heavenly Father and Jesus love me.

Friend August 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Book of Mormon, Testimony: I finished reading the Book of Mormon and prayed to know if it was true. After my prayer, I felt happy and knew it was true.
  • Missionary: I miss my brother who is serving a mission. I talk to him every week and love to hear how he is teaching people about Jesus Christ.
  • Baptism: I was sad my brother couldn’t come to my baptism because the government rules for COVID-19 allowed only four people to gather. But I’m glad I made my baptism covenant with Heavenly Father. I know God will lead me every day and send the Holy Ghost to help me.
  • Priesthood Blessing, Holy Ghost: Before each school year begins, my dad gives us a blessing to help us feel comforted and confident. I feel the warmth of the Holy Ghost whenever my dad puts his hands on my head for a blessing. I know the Holy Ghost will comfort me during hard times.
  • Prayer, Faith: If I lose something, I pray with faith and search to find it.
  • Samuel the Lamanite: Made with legos

Friend July 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Book of Mormon, Baptism Prep, Scriptures: I started reading the Book of Mormon when I turned seven to prepare for my baptism. I finished it on my eighth birthday! There were difficult words but many interesting stories.
  • Book of Mormon, Scriptures: I always read the Book of Mormon. My favorite part is the story of Nephi. Jared C., age 6, Sololá, Guatemala
  • Temple: We went to the temple grounds. It made me excited to do temple baptisms when I’m old enough. I felt happy when I was there. The temple is so beautiful.
  • Prayer, Scriptures: When I pray and read the scriptures each day, I feel close to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
  • Sabbath Day: Some of my baseball games are on Sunday. I’m sad I can’t go to all of them but happy I can go to church. I always want to be at the right place on the Sabbath day.
  • Tithing: My mom said I could get a reptile if I earned the money. It took a while because I paid tithing. When a reptile cage went on sale, I had enough money to buy it! The next day I got my chameleon for my birthday. This helped me get my testimony of tithing.

Friend June 2022 “For Older Kids”

  • Adversity: When I have problems, I pray to Heavenly Father to help me. I play good music, and it helps me feel better. I know Heavenly Father answers my prayers and that He will help us. It’s going to be OK.

Friend June 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Temple Prep: I was excited to hear that a temple will be built in my country! I am preparing now to go to the temple by praying daily, studying the scriptures, and doing family history.
  • Scriptures, Example: I like to read about Nephi in the Book of Mormon. I admire how obedient he is.
  • Kindness, Service, Happiness: I look for friends at school who need someone to play with. It makes me happy to serve by helping others feel loved.
  • Missionary, Stand as a Witness: At school we were asked to learn about a religion and teach the class about it. I was excited to choose The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! I talked about the Book of Mormon and how Jesus Christ loves us. It was difficult to do, but I loved telling people about our church.
  • Prayer, Fear: I love horses but was scared to ride one. I prayed for help and felt comforted and safe. I was thankful to Heavenly Father for answering my prayer.
  • Jesus, Faith: When I think of Jesus, I feel safe and happy.
  • Temple, Goals: I built a model of the Salt Lake Temple for one of my Children and Youth goals.

Friend June 2022 “Friends by Mail”

  • Work, Effort: It took time and effort for Joseph Smith to set up Jesus Christ’s Church. It took time and effort for me to build this church from the Come, Follow Me ideas (March 2021). President Nelson taught that the Lord loves effort!

Friend April 2022 “Following Jesus Together “

  • Missionary: I was reading the Book of Mormon at school. My teacher asked me about it. I said it was about Jesus Christ, and I invited her to church. This was my first missionary experience inviting someone to church. I felt so happy inside!
  • Resurrection: My brother died in a car accident. It was the hardest day of my life. I know I will see my brother again because of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Friend April 2022 “Friends by Mail”

Temple: Even though I can’t go inside the temple yet, I can still feel peace by visiting the temple grounds.

Friend March 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Testimony: I shared my testimony for the first time! I was shaking, so I thought of Jesus and didn’t feel as scared.
  • Sabbath Holy: My friend invited me to play on Sunday. I thought of a nice way to explain to her that Sunday is a spiritual day for me to worship God and spend time with my family. I felt warm inside after that.
  • Prayer: My bedroom is a calm and peaceful place where I can get answers to my prayers. It makes me happy to know Heavenly Father hears my prayers.
  • Temples: My grandma and I play a computer game together and build temples on it. They look amazing!

Friend March 2022 “Friends by Mail”

  • Family, Siblings: My favorite part of the Friend is Matt and Mandy. Sometimes one of my brothers helps me read the stories because I have dyslexia. (see photo)

Friend February 2022 “Following Jesus Together”

  • Fasting, Prayer: My family and I fasted and prayed together several times for my cousin who was sick. I said my own prayers for her too. I know Heavenly Father heard our prayers.
  • Testimony of Book of Mormon, Holy Ghost: I know that the Book of Mormon is true because the Holy Ghost spoke to me. I was excited to tell my mom. She hugged me tightly, and I was very happy.
  • Friendship, Kindness: I saw a boy at school who was alone. I invited him to be friends with me, and now we are friends!
  • Service: I made knitted bears and gave them as a thank-you to nurses who treated COVID-19 patients. I am grateful to serve my community.
  • Adversity: During the pandemic I focused on what I could do instead of what I couldn’t do. It helped me become closer to my family and to Jesus.

Friend January 2022 “For Older Kids”

Good People in Other Religions, Prayer: One time I lost one of my hearing aids at school. We were all panicking. Then one of the teachers said a prayer. She was not a member of our Church. We found my hearing aid on the ground. Her prayer was answered! I am thankful for my teacher.

Friend January 2022 “Following Jesus Together” See link for images.

  • Scriptures, Missionary: I read my scriptures every day to learn something new. I look forward to serving a mission!
  • Adversity, Prayer: I have anxiety. My mom gave me some ideas that made it shrink, but it didn’t go away. I prayed for help, and my anxiety started to dissolve!
  • Service: I decorated a box and filled it with water bottles and hand warmers for the delivery people who visit our apartment building. I try to serve like Jesus!
  • Missionary: We were studying about Saskatchewan at school. I was able to share with my classmates and teacher that my sister is serving as a missionary there!
  • Family History: We made boats! One was a boat our ancestors sailed in when they immigrated to the United States from Sweden six generations ago.
  • Profanity, Prayer: I heard some bad words, which made me feel uncomfortable. Once I was home, I prayed for help to forget the words. Heavenly Father answered my prayer.
  • Service: One of my classmates was scared about going to school. I came early every day to wait for him so he wouldn’t be alone. Helping others makes me feel happy because I’m following Jesus.

Friend January 2022 “Jesus Helped People in Need”

My family ministers to Sister Rosa. Sister Rosa is 90, so she can’t go out of her home. I help Dad to load and transport firewood for Rosa. (Ignacio G., age 9, Canelones Department, Uruguay)

Friend December 2021 “For Older Kids”

  • Missionary, Service: I helped at a service activity in our neighborhood. My family, friends, neighbors, and the missionaries were there. We shared food and gave copies of the Book of Mormon to people who wanted to hear about the Church. I am growing my love and testimony of my Savior and my Heavenly Father. Valentina C., age 11, Baja California, Mexico

Show and Tell

Friend October 2021

  • Temple: When I think about the temple, I have a good feeling. I look forward to turning 11 and serving in Heavenly Father’s temple.
  • Family History, Service: My family tree looks beautiful because it has names and pictures of my grandparents and cousins on it. I have indexed 1,156 names! I believe indexing is a way to bring families together.
  • Kindness, Friendship: A new boy moved to our school class in the middle of the year. I volunteered to help him feel welcome. He’s one of my new friends!
  • Family History: I was born in Guatemala, and for Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, people there make kites to remind them of their family members who have died. I made a kite with pictures of my ancestors and a picture of myself in the middle to remind me of their love.
  • Service: I helped deliver wood to a family so they would have heat in their home.
  • Service: We helped at the food pantry by loading boxes of food. It reminded us to be grateful for what we have. We felt happy we were able to serve with our ward.
  • Book of Mormon, Following the Prophet, Scripture Study: When President Nelson asked us to read the Book of Mormon, I decided to read it with my parents. I felt the Holy Ghost tell me the Book of Mormon is true. I have been reading my scriptures every day and have gained a stronger testimony.

Friend September 2021

  • Reverence, Helping: It was hard to listen and be reverent when we had church at home during the pandemic. I tried to think of how I could help make it feel special and reverent. I got an idea. I took two big boxes and made them into a podium. I felt happy to help make our home church feel special.
  • Kindness: When I see someone at school who is alone or having a bad day, I invite them to play with me.
  • Scriptures: I am grateful for a living prophet. I enjoy studying the scriptures with my family each week using Come, Follow Me. It helps me understand the teachings of Jesus.
  • Scriptures: I was reading the Book of Mormon after I got in trouble. My mom came in and saw me reading and said it was a great idea to help me calm down. I had a warm feeling.
  • Priesthood Blessing, Holy Ghost: When I was sick, I felt the Holy Ghost when my dad gave me a priesthood blessing. I am thankful for my mom and dad.
  • Prayer: I have a pet iguana, and whenever it runs away I say a prayer to Heavenly Father asking that it will come back.
  • Sabbath: My friend asked me to play a video game on Sunday. I really wanted to but said no. I want to keep the Sabbath day holy.

Friend August 2021

  • Service, sacrifice: There was a huge fire nearby. We donated items to people who lost their homes. My mom asked if we should give away our keyboard. I didn’t want to, but I said a prayer to help me decide. After my prayer, I thought about someone who lost their piano and was missing it. I decided to give away our keyboard. It made me feel good to share.
  • Satan, Holy Ghost: I woke up from a nap with bad thoughts. Suddenly, a thought came to my mind to tell my mom. To help me get rid of those thoughts, she said to look at good things and to say them out loud. I know that with Heavenly Father’s help, all things are possible!
  • Profanity: I was running with my friends for our school gym class. They started to take the Lord’s name in vain, and I asked them not to. They agreed. I’m glad I stood up for what I know is right.
  • Baptism: My baptism was delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic. I was anxious because my father is not a member of our Church and could not baptize me. Heavenly Father answered my prayers, and I was baptized outdoors in a lake. Only my family could come, but the Spirit was very strong. I felt special and loved.

Friend July 2021

  • Prayer: I asked my mom if I could ride my scooter. She said I could only ride it around the block. I went a little further and got lost. I felt scared and said a prayer. Afterward, I recognized some places and knew I was near my house. I am grateful Heavenly Father helped me.
  • Baptism: I know I was choosing the right and following Jesus Christ’s example by being baptized. I felt happy and warm afterwards. I love my Savior.
  • Service, Disabilities: My dad ministers to a man who is blind. I wanted to do something for him. My dad helped me safely poke a special message into cardboard so the man could trace it with his fingers. It read, “Jesus loves you.” I went with my dad to give it to him. The man was surprised and happy when he felt the letters.
  • Nephi: We felt like Nephi when we made our bows.
  • Temple, Book of Mormon Temple: My school did remote learning for a while because of COVID-19. I made a model of a Nephite temple in between my classes.
  • Loving and Remembering Jesus: We love our Savior and always remember Him. (children with pictures of images of Jesus)
  • Art work of “I love to see the temple”, second coming , & pioneers (legos of handcart)

Friend June 2021 See photos and art at link.

  • Scriptures, Prophet, Obedience: I read the scriptures with my family at night. I like to obey the prophet.
  • Service: I did a 5-km (3-mile) walk to raise awareness and money for homeless people. It made me feel good that I could serve!
  • Family: I like helping my brother with his homework. I love my brother.
  • CTR: Our dad cut a piece of wood into a funny shape. We made it into a CTR shield. It reminds us to choose the right!
  • Prayer: Praying to Heavenly Father every night helps me feel closer to Him.
  • Sacrament, Example, Family, Adversity: We learned how to make bread for the sacrament when we had home church. My dad and brothers blessed and passed the sacrament. I like having good examples in my family.

Friend March 2021 “For Older Kids”

  • Prayer, Anger: I was kind of mad at my parents for not letting me do something. I went to my room and said a prayer, asking Heavenly Father to help me be less mad. I know that when you pray to Heavenly Father in faith, He will answer your prayers.

Friend March 2021

  • Example: When we had church at home, I taught my family about shining like a star. Everyone made a star and wrote on it about how they shine.
  • Holy Ghost: I got a feeling at lunch not to play on the bars at recess. I ignored that feeling and played on the bars anyway. I fell off and broke my arm. I know the Holy Ghost will give me quiet warnings.

Friend February 2021

  • Temple, Family Forever: I love to hear the story of when my mom and dad took me to the Denver Colorado Temple to be sealed when I was five months old. It makes me happy to know our family is forever.
  • Choice, Honesty: My uncle and I found a lot of cash on the airport sidewalk. We turned it in to the police because that is what Jesus would want us to do.

Friend January 2021

  • Fasting, Prayer: When there were wildfires in Australia, I fasted for the animals in danger. We prayed each night for the firemen so the Lord would protect them. I felt so happy when Mum told me the fires were going away. I know Heavenly Father hears us when we fast and pray.
  • Kindness Including Others: I have many friends at school, and we have a lot of fun. One day I saw a girl alone, and I wanted to be her friend. I knew it was the right thing because the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.
  • Kindness: I was swimming with my family and noticed a boy who was struggling in the water. I went over and helped him. His older brother told me that I was a star for helping. After, I felt the Holy Ghost.

Friend December 2020

  • Church Around the World: Our Primary class in Greater Accra Region, Ghana, had fun learning about the commandments and holding to the iron rod! (includes picture of kids holding rod)
  • Fasting, Gratitude, Adversity: When there were fires in my country, I was eager to fast for rain and for help when our Church leaders asked us to. I wrote messages to the firefighters to tell them thank you. I felt the Holy Ghost.
  • Book of Mormon Testimonies
  • Service: I made dog toys and cat beds from towels and fleece for the local animal shelter. When I delivered the toys and beds, I got to see the animals who were waiting to be adopted. I felt happy that I helped.
  • Christmas: Every year, my family and I make Christmas treats and deliver them. It makes me happy to know that we made someone smile. I am grateful that Jesus was born.

October 2020

  • Adversity: I dove off the diving board at the end of my swimming lesson. I wasn’t focused and bonked my chin. I went to the hospital and was scared I would get stitches. The doctor put some glue on my chin instead. I was grateful that Heavenly Father protected me.
  • Fasting, Family (siblings): I decided to fast to not get so annoyed with my brother. At the time, I didn’t know that soon we would be quarantined because of COVID-19. Little by little, Heavenly Father helped me have a better relationship with my brother. I know that if we fast and pray, our prayers will be heard.
  • Missionary, Baptism: Last year, we gave invitations to all of our neighbors to come to our Primary program. One of our neighbors came and wants to come again.
  • Obedience, Missionary, Book of Mormon: I am reading the Book of Mormon like President Nelson asked us to. I read with my family, on my own at night, and sometimes at school. At school, kids ask me what book I’m reading. I tell them what it is and about the gospel. It makes me feel good that I get to talk about the Church to others who haven’t heard about it.
  • Gratitude: I say thank you to my mom each day for making dinner.

September 2020

  • Service, Talents: I learned to sew at the beginning of the pandemic and starting sewing masks to donate to ward members and senior homes. My sisters and I have sewn over 500 masks!
  • Family, Kindness: My sister and brother have autism. When I saw my sister at recess with no one to play with, I felt sad. So I played with her. Being compassionate made me feel the warmth of the Holy Ghost. Jesus was compassionate, and I want to be like Jesus.

August 2020

  • Prayer: I lost my brother’s jacket when my family went on a walk. We prayed that Heavenly Father would help us find it. We felt that we should take the same walk again. We found his jacket! This helped me realize that everything in my life is important to Heavenly Father and He is always ready to help me.
  • Jesus Parables: We listened to Jesus’s parable of the sower and then planted sunflower seeds. It’s not very hot or sunny where we live, so we were excited when the seeds pushed through the soil. The plants got taller and taller until they bloomed, just like the seeds in Jesus’s story!
  • Service: I helped clean up debris from flooding with other members of our stake. I will always remember this because it made me feel so good inside. I love to serve!
  • Temple: I was excited and nervous about becoming a deacon. When they announced the youth would be going to the temple for baptisms, I thought I would mess up since it was my first time. But when we walked in, it was quiet and everyone was happy. I’m excited for the next temple trip!
  • Media: Someone showed me a bad video. That night I couldn’t get the video out of my head. I talked to my mom, and she told me to say a prayer to ask for help to forget it. Soon, I was able to fall asleep and not think of the video again. I am thankful I can talk to my Heavenly Father whenever I need help.

July 2020

  • Primary Talks: I was asked to give a talk in Primary. I was so nervous that my hands started sweating. When I gave my talk, I felt better thinking about Jesus and how He loves us. After I got home, I realized my talk could help teach other people about the gospel.
  • Sabbath: Drawing of girls choosing to go to church or a party
  • Sibling Example: My sister is a good example to me by choosing the right. We like to be nice to each other, play together, and go to church together.
  • Family Service:I like to help my sisters with their chores.
  • Scriptures: We like watching the scripture story videos in the Gospel Library app. It helps us understand the scriptures. We track our progress in the “study plans” feature. My favorite story in the scriptures is where Jesus told the rich young man to give everything to the poor and then follow Him.Prayer: Once during a rainstorm, the front door was accidentally left open and my aunt’s four dogs got out. We couldn’t find them. I remembered to say a prayer. We soon found all of the dogs. I love Heavenly Father so much.
  • Kindness: I gave a card and a compliment to someone who was not very nice to me at school. It made me feel good!

June 2020

  • Prayer, Adversity: When I was younger, I had a skin disease. Every day I prayed for Heavenly Father to heal me. I learned to be patient, and after five years I was healed. I know that Heavenly Father hears our prayers. 
  • Kindness: My friend’s little sister is afraid of dogs. When some dogs came near us, I shooed them away so she wouldn’t be scared.
  • Fear, Prayer: At school, some of the students like scary stories. They told one story to me that really started haunting me at night. One night, I decided to pray to Heavenly Father to keep my mind off it. He helped me sleep every single night. That’s when I realized I can pray to Him anywhere and anytime.
  • Music: I love playing the cello because when I play good songs, it helps me feel the Spirit.
  • Honesty: I had a spelling test, and my teacher said I got 100%. My friend looked at my test and told me that one of the words wasn’t right. I told the teacher, so she corrected the score. I felt happy because I was honest.
  • Example, Family: I remind my family to pray and read the scriptures every night.
  • Prayer, Animals: I love having pet stick insects. One of them became very sick. I said a prayer that she would recover. The next morning, I looked into her cage, and she was all better. I know Heavenly Father heard my prayer.
  • Bullying: At school, a new kid was in my class. At first I went with the crowd and bullied him. I talked to my parents, and they told me that I should change. The next day I played with him. Now we are friends. It’s better to help people than to bully them.

April 2019

  • Prayer, Holy Ghost: child is scared when he finds no one at his house. He prays and feels he should check at the neighbors, where he finds his family.
  • Standing for the Right: asking friends on bus to not talk about inappropriate things.

June 2019 

  • Missionary: “At our family reunion, we did a mini-mission activity. My companion was my cousin, and we taught our uncles and grandma a discussion. It was fun and got me excited to go on a real mission someday!” Calvin M., age 9, Texas, USA
  • Priesthood Blessings: “When I moved, I was super nervous to start third grade. The day before school started, my dad gave me a blessing. I felt like I would have an awesome school year. After a few days, I had made a friend with someone in the ward. I am thankful for Luke and the wonderful friendship we have.” Kason H., age 11, Maryland, USA

Friend May 2021 “For Older Kids”

  • Example, Obedience, Choosing the Right: I listen to my parents and try to be an example to those around me. At school, I try to do what’s right even when others are doing bad things. Kiana M., age 11, Western Australia, Australia

Friend August 2022 “Jesus Promised Us Comfort”

  • Service: My mom, dad, and I gave blankets to a children’s hospital. The hospital workers said the blankets would help the kids not feel afraid anymore. I am glad that our blankets will help cheer the kids up and make them happy. It made me feel happy too. Brooklyn D., age 9, Texas, USA

Friend December 2022 “Jesus was Patient”

Kindness, Friendship: I work hard to be a good friend and be kind to everybody, especially those that seem lonely or are being treated differently just because they look or act a little different. I want them to know that they are loved and that they have a friend in me who cares for and respects them.