Explain that the prophet Ether tried to teach the Jaredites “great and marvelous things,” but they didn’t believe what he said. Invite the children to read Ether 12:5 to find out why they didn’t believe. What are some things Heavenly Father wants us to believe even though we don’t see them? Read together Ether 12:6.
Moroni shared several examples of people who accomplished great things because of their faith.
Show pictures that depict the examples of faith in Ether 12:13–15, 20–21 (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 78, 85, and this week’s activity page). Let the children tell you what they see in the pictures and what they know about the stories. Talk with the children about how these individuals showed faith and what happened because of their faith.
Play a guessing game with the children. Give them clues about the faithful people described in Ether 12:13–15, 19–20 until the children can guess who they are. Then let the children play the game again by taking turns giving clues about the same people (or other faithful people) while the rest of the class guesses. Share what you admire about the faith of these people.
Show one of the children a picture without letting the other children see, and ask the child to describe the picture to the rest of the class. As time allows, let other children take turns doing the same with different pictures. Then invite them to read Ether 12:6 and find this phrase: “Faith is things which are hoped for and not seen.” How do we show faith in Jesus Christ when we cannot see Him?
Ask the children to read this phrase in Ether 12:6: “Ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.” Help the children understand that when we obey a commandment, we can know it is true. Ask them to think of gospel principles that God wants us to have a testimony of, such as paying tithing, keeping the Sabbath day holy, or living the Word of Wisdom. Then write on the board In order to gain a testimony of , I must . Share how you have exercised faith in order to gain your testimony of these and other gospel truths.
Share with the children the definition of hope found in “Hope” (Guide to the Scriptures, scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). According to this definition and Ether 12:4, 32, what should we hope for? (see also Moroni 7:40–42). Help the children think of other words for hope, along with words that mean the opposite of hope. Share with them some gospel truths that give you hope, and invite them to do the same.
Show (or draw on the board) a picture of a boat and an anchor. Why do boats need anchors? What would happen to a boat that did not have an anchor? Read together Ether 12:4, and ask the children how hope is like an anchor. Invite the children to draw their own pictures of a boat and anchor so they can teach their families about hope.
Friend November 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones Read Ether 12:27 and help your little ones say, “Jesus Christ can help me be strong.” Invite your children to try doing something physically hard, like moving a chair or lifting a heavy book. Then help them successfully complete the challenge. Show them a picture of Jesus and explain that Jesus can help us do hard things and make weak things strong.
As children get older, they become more aware of their weaknesses. Use these verses to teach them how the Savior can make “weak things become strong” (Ether 12:27).
Describe for the children a task that would require a lot of physical strength to accomplish. Invite them to share examples of things they aren’t strong enough to do now. How could we become strong enough to accomplish these tasks? Explain that we also have spiritual work to do, but we sometimes feel spiritually weak. Moroni felt this way about his writings on the plates (Ether 12:23–25). Read Ether 12:27 to the children. What did the Lord promise those who feel weak?
Share an experience in which the Savior helped you or someone you know do something that was hard. Testify to the children that if they seek His help, Jesus can help them be strong, even when they feel weak.
Invite the children to draw a picture of something weak and something strong. Then invite them to add to their drawing some words and phrases from Ether 12:23–29 that teach them about how the Savior can help us turn our weakness into strength. Encourage the children to think about a weakness they might have and then seek the Savior’s help to become strong.
Why does the Lord give us weakness? What is our part in making “weak things become strong”? What is the Savior’s part?
“Weak Things Stronger.” In this Friend article, Parker learns that he doesn’t have to be perfect and that the Savior is there to help him.
Being king of the Jaredites was, historically, a dangerous position. This was especially true for Coriantumr, as many “mighty men … sought to destroy him” (Ether 13:15–16). In Ether 13:15–22, notice what Coriantumr did to protect himself and what the prophet Ether counseled him to do instead. As you read the rest of the book of Ether, ponder the consequences of rejecting the prophets. What happens to people when “the Spirit of the Lord [ceases] striving with them”? (Ether 15:19).
What would happen if you chose to stick a pin in a fully inflated balloon?
What would happen if your family chose to stop watering a plant in your home?
What would happen if you chose to stay up late and not get enough sleep?
Explain to the children that all their choices have consequences. Consequences are what happen as a result of the choices we make. The scriptures and our prophets teach us the consequences of our choices because Heavenly Father wants us to make good choices. This lesson is about the Jaredites and the prophet Ether. Ether told the Jaredites that if they chose not to repent, the consequences would be that all of the people would be destroyed.
Before class, write the letters to the word obedience on separate pieces of paper, and hide them around the classroom. Explain to the children that you have hidden some letters. Give specific directions for finding each letter. When all the letters have been located, put them on the floor or chalkboard to form the word obedience. Ask how they were able to find all the letters. Teach the children that Heavenly Father wants us to choose to obey. Learning to obey is one of the main reasons we are here on earth. Heavenly Father wants us to use our agency and choose to obey the counsel of the leaders of the Church. Ask the children what they think is the most important thing they can do to be happy. Refer again to the letters that spell obedience. Point out that Heavenly Father tells us in the scriptures and through his Church leaders what he wants us to do. When we use our agency to be obedient and do what he says, he will help us find happiness.
Make the following wordstrips: Righteousness, Blessings, Prosperity, Pride, Wickedness, Suffering or destruction, Humility, Repentance. Explain that throughout history when people have been righteous, Heavenly Father has blessed them with prosperity. Unfortunately this prosperity can lead to pride and wickedness and sometimes complete destruction.Explain that this is what happened to the Jaredites. At first they were a righteous people and were blessed and prospered. (Draw a large circle on the chalkboard, and have the children put up the wordstrips “Righteousness,” “Blessings,” and “Prosperity” in the proper places on the circle [see the following illustration].) Then the Jaredites became proud and rejected the prophets. The people became so wicked that they were entirely destroyed. (Have the children put up the wordstrips “Pride,” “Wickedness,” and “Suffering or destruction” in the proper places on the circle.) Explain that if the Jaredites had humbled themselves and repented before they were destroyed, they could have returned to enjoying the blessings of righteous living. (Have the children put up the wordstrips “Humility” and “Repentance” in the proper places on the circle.) Help the children understand that this cycle often happens in our personal lives as well as in the history of nations.Cycle of HistoryRighteousnessBlessingsProsperityPrideWickednessSuffering or destructionHumilityRepentance
Have the children make their own copies of the cycle of history to take home and share with their families. The children could make their cycles more personal by including such things as “listening to the prophets,” “obeying my parents,” “praying daily,” “expressing gratitude,” “serving others,” and so on.
Is there a fun way you could teach your children to “seek … Jesus”? One way might be to hide a picture of Jesus and invite your family members to “seek” and find the picture. How do we seek Jesus, and how are we blessed when we find Him?
It might be interesting for your family members to compare the experience of Ether with the experiences of Mormon and Moroni (see Mormon 6; 8:1–10). How are they similar? How was the Nephites’ path to destruction similar to the Jaredites’ path? (compare Ether 15:19 with Moroni 8:28). What truths do we learn that can help us avoid what happened to them?
It must have been frightening for the Jaredites to be “tossed upon the waves of the sea before the wind” (Ether 6:5). But the Lord kept them safe and helped them.
Possible Activities
Using words and phrases from Ether 6:2–12, describe to the children the Jaredites’ journey across the sea. Invite the children to pretend to climb into the barges and pretend that their barge is being moved and covered by waves. How would it feel to be in a real barge in rough waters? What can we do when we are scared? Read together verses 7 and 9 to see what the Jaredites did when they were frightened.
Tell about a time when you were afraid and Heavenly Father comforted you.
Friend November 2020 “Come, Follow Me for Little Ones” Sit on a bed with your children and cover yourselves with a blanket, or do something else to build a pretend barge. Be sure to bring a flashlight! Read Ether 6:5 together and act out being “tossed upon the waves” with a “furious wind.” Then read Ether 6:9 together and help your little ones say, “I can be thankful.” Pick a favorite Primary song to sing together before leaving the barge!
Would your family enjoy acting out the Jaredites’ voyage to the promised land? Maybe you could use a dark room as a barge and flashlights to represent the shining stones. You could talk about how the Jaredites showed their faith in the Lord by getting in the barges, despite knowing that they would be “buried in the depths of the sea” (Ether 6:6). After reading verse 9, family members could share favorite hymns of praise and sing them together. How can our homes be compared to the Jaredites’ barges? What is the promised land the Lord is leading our family toward?
The account of the Jaredites’ voyage across the sea can be compared to our journey through mortality. Both journeys are sometimes dangerous and require faith that the Lord will guide and protect us.
Read together Ether 6:2–12, pausing frequently so the children can draw pictures of what they are reading. How is the Jaredites’ journey like our lives? Help the children identify and label what different parts of their drawings might represent in our lives. For example, the Jaredites could represent us. The barges could represent our homes, the Church, or the gospel. What might the wind, the water, the shining stones, and the promised land represent?
Help the children find words and phrases in Ether 6:2–12that show how the Jaredites trusted God. Share examples of how relying on God has helped you during difficult times in your life. Encourage the children to share any similar experiences they’ve had.
After arriving safely in the promised land, the Jaredites were so thankful that they “shed tears of joy” (Ether 6:12).
Read to the children phrases from Ether 6:9 and 12 to teach them how the Jaredites showed their gratitude to the Lord for helping them reach the promised land. Ask the children to name some things they are thankful for. Sing together, like the Jaredites did, a song that expresses gratitude, such as “I Thank Thee, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 7).
Read to the children Ether 10:2 to show that even many years later, the Jaredites remembered how the Lord had helped their ancestors cross the ocean. Help the children think of ways the Lord has blessed them. Then let the children draw pictures to remind themselves of these blessings (or help them choose from some pictures you bring, perhaps from a Church magazine).
One thing that distinguished the righteous Jaredite kings from the wicked ones is that the righteous kings “remembered the great things that the Lord had done” for them (Ether 7:27).
Ask the children to read Ether 6:30; 7:27; and 10:2 individually or in small groups and find something that these verses have in common. Share your feelings about what the Lord has done for you, and invite the children to do the same.
Share with the children about how you try to remember ways the Lord has blessed you and your family. Help the children think of ways they can remind themselves what the Lord has done for them. Give them each a piece of paper, and invite them to ponder and write down something He has done for them recently. Suggest that they make a regular habit of writing down blessings they notice from the Lord (see “O Remember, Remember” [video, ChurchofJesusChrist.org]).
The book of Ether clearly shows that when the Jaredites followed the prophets they were blessed, and when they rejected the prophets their lives were harder.
Show a picture of the living prophet, and ask the children what they know about him. What does a prophet do? Explain that the Jaredites had prophets too, and whenever they followed the prophet, they were blessed and happy (see Ether 7:24–27). How can we follow the prophet?
Sing together a song about prophets, such as “Follow the Prophet” (Children’s Songbook, 110–11; see also Gospel Art Book, nos. 4–27, 67–87). Talk with the children about things the prophets have taught us to do (for example, reading our scriptures daily, keeping the Sabbath day holy, or serving others), and invite them to act out obeying that counsel when you say “Follow the prophet!”
Even though the Jaredites often rejected the prophets and became wicked, the Lord always forgave them when they humbled themselves and repented.
Read together Ether 9:28–35, and help the children think of three or four short sentences that summarize what happened in these verses. Then read Ether 11:5–8, and help the children identify similarities between the two accounts. What do we learn from these stories?
When two or more people conspire to keep their wicked acts secret, they are involved in a secret combination. They are often motivated by the desire for power or riches.
Throughout this week, your family could watch for how the brother of Jared’s prophetic warning about captivity was fulfilled. What warnings have our Church leaders given us? In what ways could dismissing their counsel lead to captivity?
According to these verses, why was Moroni commanded to write “these things” about secret combinations? (Ether 8:23).
The book of Ether is the record of the Jaredites, who arrived in the promised land centuries before the Nephites. God inspired Moroni to include Ether’s record in the Book of Mormon because of its relevance to our day.
Friend November 2020 “The Brother of Jared” Read this rock art story about the Brother of Jared and then go outside and find 16 stones of different shapes and sizes. Use them to create a scene from this story!
Friend November 1988 “Annette’s Very Own Scriptures” A teacher tells the story of the brother of Jared using some fun ideas.
Activity Ideas
Friend November 2020 “Come, Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Ether 3:4 together and review the story of how the brother of Jared built ships to travel to the promised land. (You could use the illustrated story on pages FJ4–6 of the October 2016 Friend.) Then hide 16 stones and help your children find them. When you’re done, help your little ones say, “God can help me solve my problems.”
Write the phrase “Stand up, turn around, and sit quietly” on a slip of paper. Then, using the other languages below, make enough copies of the phrase in foreign languages so the rest of the children can have one.
German: Steh auf, dreh dich um, und sitz still.
Italian: Alzati, girati, siediti, e stai tranquillo.
Swedish: Ställa upp, vänd dig omkring, sätt dig stilla ned.
French: Lève-toi, tourne-toi, et assieds-toi tranquillement.
Portuguese: Levante-se, vire-se, e sente-se silenciosamente!
Spanish: Ponte de pie, date una vuelta, y siéntate en silencio.
Give each child one of the papers with the phrase “Stand up, turn around, and sit quietly” written on it in one of the various languages. Ask the class members to follow the instructions on their papers.
Why are you all not able to follow the instructions?
Briefly tell the story of the Tower of Babel from Genesis 11:1–9.
What would it be like if you were not able to understand the people around you? Explain that today the children will learn about a family who lived at the time of the Tower of Babel.
Activity: Using the chalkboard or a poster, make a tic-tac-toe board. Divide the class into two groups, one using the x’s and the other the o’s. If the question you ask is answered correctly, that group gets to choose where to put the x or o. The object is to get three x’s or o’s in a row. When any question is missed, the opposing team gets a chance to answer the same question. (Refer to lesson 18 for directions.) The following are possible review questions about the Jaredites (you will need to add others.):
How many stones were placed in each barge? (Two.)
How long did it take for Jared, his brother, and their families and friends to cross the ocean? (Almost a year.)
What was the name of the high tower the wicked people were building? (Tower of Babel.)
Why did the brother of Jared prepare the sixteen small stones? (To make a source of light for their journey.)
How did Jesus Christ make each stone shine? (With his power by touching them with his finger.)
See the lesson for questions to ask while studying each scripture.
Lesson Ideas
Was the brother of Jared the first person to see the Lord?
God had shown Himself to other prophets before the brother of Jared (for example, see Moses 7:4, 59), so why did the Lord say to him, “Never have I showed myself unto man”? (Ether 3:15). Elder Jeffrey R. Holland offered this possible explanation: “Christ was saying to the brother of Jared, ‘Never have I showed myself unto man in this manner, without my volition, driven solely by the faith of the beholder’” (Christ and the New Covenant [1997], 23).Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 1–5: “Rend That Veil of Unbelief””
Invite a few ward members who know another language to say a few sentences in that language for your class (or play a recording of another language). Let the children pretend to speak another language, and point out how hard it is to understand one another when we don’t speak the same language. Use this to introduce the account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9 and Ether 1:33. Explain how the brother of Jared prayed that he and his friends and family would be able to understand one another (see Ether 1:34–37). Read and help the children understand the Lord’s response to his prayer in Ether 1:35.
Before class, write the phrase “Stand up, turn around, and sit down” in different languages on several slips of paper (you could use an online translator or the help of someone who knows another language). Give one slip to each of the children, and invite them to try to follow the instructions. Use this to help explain what motivated the brother of Jared’s prayers in Ether 1:33–37.
Invite the children to pretend to build a barge, as described in Ether 2:16–17. Explain the problems the Jaredites had with their barges (see Ether 2:19), and ask the children what they would do about these problems. Read Ether 2:18–19 to teach the children how the brother of Jared took his problems to the Lord in prayer. Testify that we can always pray when we have questions or problems.
Briefly summarize Ether 2:19–3:6 to explain how the Lord responded to the brother of Jared’s questions about the barges. Place 16 stones throughout the classroom, and invite the children to count them as they find them.
Assign each child to read one of the following passages, and help them look for a question or problem the brother of Jared had: Ether 1:33–35; Ether 1:36–37; and Ether 2:18–20. What did the brother of Jared do about these problems or questions? How did the Lord help him in each case? Invite the children to think about problems they need help with. How can they follow the example of the brother of Jared to find solutions to their problems? Share an experience in which you prayed for help and the Lord helped you.
Friend November 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones: The Promised Land” Read Ether 3:4 together and review the story of how the brother of Jared built ships to travel to the promised land. (You could use the illustrated story on pages FJ4–6 of the October 2016 Friend.) Then hide 16 stones and help your children find them. When you’re done, help your little ones say, “God can help me solve my problems.”
Show a picture of the Savior, and invite the children to point to various parts of His body. Read Ether 3:13 and 15, and explain that when the brother of Jared saw Jesus Christ, he learned that we all look like Jesus. As you point to a body part in the picture, invite them to point to the same part of their own bodies. Testify that we were created to look like our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Sing together a song related to our bodies, such as “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” (Children’s Songbook, 275). Help the children talk about why they are grateful for different parts of their bodies.
Mormon taught that the Book of Mormon was written to help us believe the Bible and that those who believe the Bible will believe the Book of Mormon.
Possible Activities
Show the children the title page of the Book of Mormon, and point to the words of the title as you read it, emphasizing the word another. Help the children think of other books of scripture that teach us about Jesus. Show them that the Bible has the Old Testament and the New Testament. Help the children say “Old Testament, New Testament” when you point to the Bible and “Another Testament” when you point to the Book of Mormon.
Display a world map or the activity page for this outline, along with a Bible and Book of Mormon. Use these items to teach the children that the Bible is a record of Jesus’s teachings in and around Jerusalem and the Book of Mormon is a record of His teachings in the Americas.
Choose several events and truths that both the Bible and the Book of Mormon testify of, such as Jesus’s birth, death, and Resurrection. Show pictures from the Gospel Art Bookthat depict these events and truths. Ask the children to describe what they see in the pictures, and tell them that both the Bible and the Book of Mormon teach about these things.
Write Mormon 7:9 on the board, but leave blanks in place of the words this and that. Also write on the board this= the Book of Mormon and that= the Bible. Invite the children to read Mormon 7:9 out loud and use the phrases on the board to fill in the blanks. What do we learn about the Bible and the Book of Mormon from this verse?
Display a Book of Mormon and a Bible. Share a few stories from each book, showing pictures if available (see the Gospel Art Book). Invite the children to point to the book the story comes from. Why do we need both books?
Write each word of the eighth article of faith on separate pieces of paper. Give one or two words to each child, and invite the children to work together to put the words in the correct order. Then ask them to repeat the article of faith several times. What does it teach us?
Read Mormon 8:1–7 with the children, and invite them to share how they would have felt if they had been Moroni.
Moroni was the last righteous Nephite, but he stayed true to his testimony. Help the children learn from his example.
Read Mormon 8:3, emphasizing that Moroni was all alone, but he still kept the commandments, including the commandment to finish the Book of Mormon. Share a time when you were faithful even when you felt alone.
After discussing Moroni’s example, share some scenarios in which a child must decide whether or not to choose the right, even though no one is looking. Or invite the children to each write down a situation in which they have to make a choice between right or wrong when no one is watching. Put their ideas in a container, and let the children take turns picking a situation and sharing what they would do to be like Moroni.What would Moroni have done?
Sing with the children a song about choosing the right, such as “Stand for the Right” (Children’s Songbook, 159). Why is it important to choose the right all the time, even when you are alone?
There are many people today who don’t believe that miracles still happen. Use Moroni’s teachings in these verses to teach the children that when we have faith, we can see God work miracles in our lives.
Show the children a recipe. What would happen if you left out an essential ingredient? Invite the children to search Mormon 8:24 and 9:20–21 to find the necessary “ingredient” that we must have before God can work miracles. Share examples of miracles—big or small—that you have seen in the Church or in your life. Invite the children to share their own examples.
Divide the children into two teams. Invite each team to look for examples of miracles in some or all of these scriptures: Mormon 8:24; 9:11–13, 16–18, 21–25. What could we say to someone who thinks miracles don’t happen anymore? (see Mormon 9:9, 15–21).
Explain that a miracle is something God does to show His power and bless our lives (see Bible Dictionary, “Miracles”). Read words and phrases from Mormon 9:11–13, 17 that describe some of God’s miracles. Help the children think of other miracles found in the scriptures (pictures from the Gospel Art Book, such as nos. 26, 40, 41, and 83, can help). Testify that God worked miracles in ancient times and He still works miracles today.
Share an experience when you have seen miracles in the Church today or in your own life. Bear your testimony that God is “a God of miracles” (Mormon 9:11)
Friend November 2020 “Come Follow Me for Little Ones” Read Mormon 9:19 together and help your little ones say, “God is a God of miracles.” Watch the sing-along video for the song “The Miracle.” If your children are old enough, you could learn to sing the chorus together. (For extra help, find the lyrics in the June 2018 Friend.)
Friend June 2024 “Eggs and Pennies” Grandpa paid Izzy a penny for each egg she collected. In her primary lesson she learned and about tithing and that if you have 10 cents, you give one cent as tithing. Izzy’s face felt hot. Give one of her pennies? She couldn’t! Then she remembered her grandfather. He only kept one of the eggs she gathered for him and he gave the rest to her family. She always gave him the biggest egg because she loved him. “So,” Izzy said slowly, “we give Heavenly Father back a little of what He gives us. Because we want to show Him we love Him.” Feeling warm all over, Izzy took the shiniest penny and slipped it into her envelope to give to Heavenly Father. “Thanks for the pennies,” she whispered. “And thanks for the blessings from heaven.”
Friend November 2023 “Coconuts and Tithing” During the summer Avehei and her brother work in the coconut groves. She always pays my tithing with the money she receives because she knows she and her family are blessed when she obeys.
Friend December 2022 “Tithing Pie” A bishop explains tithing by drawing a pretend peach pie and then asking if any of the children would want some. He then says he will give the whole pie to them, but he just wants one piece back.
Friend September 2022 “Moisés and the Pesos” Moises works in his father’s shop and earns money. His parents are separated and his mom struggles to provide for the family. His mom and family join the church. One day there is not enough to live on and pay tithing, but his mom pays tithing first. As she pays tithing in life, they always have enough for their needs. His mom’s example makes him want to pay tithing too.
Friend November 2020 “Conference Notes”Elder Gong told about a boy in South America who raises chickens. He sells the eggs to help buy windows for his family’s house. And he always pays his tithing first! Elder Gong said this boy would see the windows of heaven open. That means he will be blessed for choosing the right.
Friend October 2020 “Tithing Pesos” Sofia sold lemonade during her family’s garage sale. Her father taught her about tithing and showed her how to pay it.
Friend May 2018 ”The Silver Dollar” Alvin is proud of the silver dollar he earned doing farm work and wants to keep it forever. His mother reminds him to pay his tithing, which upsets him because he doesn’t want to break up his coin. He figures out how to earn eleven more cents so he can do what is right and pay his tithing.
Friend May 2018Friend May 2018
Friend April 2018 “An Amazing Lesson”When Elder Cordon was a child he learned that the Lord blesses us when we pay our tithing. His parents had to choose between paying for food or paying tithing. They paid their tithing and later his father received work and a prepayment for that work.
Friend May 2017 “Conference Notes” When Elder Cordón was a child, his father’s business went bankrupt and they had very little money. One day, Elder Cordón heard his parents talking about whether they should pay tithing or buy food. They decided to have faith and pay tithing. The next day, someone offered to pay his dad for work. They were always blessed with food on their table. Elder Cordón testified that we are blessed when we obey.
Friend November 2016 “First Things First” Kai noticed that his dad always put the tithing check on the fridge. Kai learned that his father had made a promise to always pay tithing first before anything else.
Friend February 1986 “Tomato and Carrot Dinner” Thomas isn’t happy about his father paying tithing when there is very little to eat. His father teaches him to have faith in the Lord.
Friend April 2016 “Pesos for Heavenly Father” Ana’s grandmother has faith to pay tithing even though there is no food, and she is blessed.
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?
Play a game in which the children repeat basic actions that you do. Then show pictures of things Jesus did, and talk about how we can follow Him (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 33–35, 41–42). Discuss ways Mormon followed Jesus Christ—for example, by teaching the gospel, encouraging people to obey God, and loving others.
Show a picture of Mormon (see the picture in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Help the children see that because Mormon was responsible and trustworthy enough to keep and preserve the Nephite records, we have the Book of Mormon today. Talk with the children about what it means to be responsible and trustworthy. Invite them to ponder ways they can be more responsible.
I can live righteously despite the wickedness around me.
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?
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?
When Mormon saw his people’s sorrow, he hoped they would repent. But “their sorrowing was not unto repentance” (Mormon 2:13)—it was not the kind of godly sorrow that leads to real change (see 2 Corinthians 7:8–11). Instead, the Nephites felt worldly sorrow (see Mormon 2:10–11).
Mormon saw that the wicked Nephites were sorrowful, but their sorrow was not the kind that would inspire them to repent (see Mormon 2:13).
Write the following headings on the board: Sorrow that leads to repentance and Sorrow that doesn’t lead to repentance. Invite the children to take turns reading verses from Mormon 2:8, 10–15. Help them write things they learn about sorrow under the appropriate headings on the board. How can we make sure that the sorrow we feel for our sins leads us to change?
And although Mormon’s own people rejected his pleading invitations to repent, he knew that he had a larger audience to persuade. “Behold,” he declared, “I write unto all the ends of the earth.” In other words, he wrote to you (see Mormon 3:17–20). And his message to you, today, is the same message that could have saved the Nephites in their day: “Believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. … Repent and prepare to stand before the judgment-seat of Christ” (Mormon 3:21–22).
Read Mormon 3:3 and 9 to the children, and explain that the Nephites had not recognized that Heavenly Father had blessed them. (Instead they became prideful and boasted in their own strength.)
What happens when we become prideful and boastful and wicked? We lose the guidance and protection of the Holy Ghost and we are left to our own devices. What happened to the Nephites after they became boastful and vengeful. (See Mormon 3:11 & 4:1-5) They faced the consequences of their actions.
Help the children think of blessings Heavenly Father has given them. Show pictures or objects to give them ideas. What can we do today to show we are thankful to Heavenly Father for our blessings?
Help the children think of blessings Heavenly Father has given them, and ask them to draw pictures of some of these blessings. Invite them to hang their pictures somewhere at home where they can see them and remember that Heavenly Father blesses them in many ways. You could also invite them to identify blessings that come from Heavenly Father as they sing the first verse of “I Thank Thee, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 7).
It’s often easy to love those who love us and are like us, but Mormon demonstrated that with help from Heavenly Father, we can love those who believe and act differently than we do.
Ask each child to draw a person on the board, and point out how each person they drew looks different from the others. Draw a large heart surrounding all the drawings. Help the children understand that Heavenly Father wants us to love all people. Read Mormon 3:12, emphasizing the words “love” and “loved.” What did Mormon do to show his love for others?
Sing a song together about loving others, such as “Jesus Said Love Everyone” (Children’s Songbook, 61), while showing pictures of children from around the world. Testify of God’s love for all of His children. Complete this week’s activity page with the children.
Read Mormon 3:12 together, emphasizing the words “love” and “loved.” Help your little ones put their hands on their hearts and say, “I can share God’s love with others,” and then hold their hands outward, as if sharing something. You could listen to or sing “Love One Another” (Children’s Songbook,136) and put your hands on your hearts whenever you hear the word “love.”
Read Mormon 6:17 together. Talk about what it means that Jesus has “open arms to receive [us]” when He is not physically here with us.
Invite family members to draw a picture of themselves with Jesus. For younger children, use a coloring page from lessonhelps.ChurchofJesusChrist.org or the September Friend.
When the pictures are finished, fold them up and put them in a bowl. Take turns picking a picture at random.
When someone’s picture is chosen, have them talk about a time they have felt the Savior’s love or share something they can do to follow Jesus.
Discussion: Talk about what you can do as a family to help each other follow Jesus and feel closer to Him. How can we be His “arms” here on earth?
Read Acts 11:26 to the children, and invite them to stand up when they hear you say the word Christian. Ask them what they think it means to be a Christian. Explain that someone who believes in and follows Jesus Christ is called a Christian, so we are Christians.
Friend July 2019“I’m Christian” Poem about the ways we are Christians.
Sing with the children a song about following Jesus Christ, such as “The Church of Jesus Christ” (Children’s Songbook, 77).
How can we show that we are followers of Jesus Christ and belong to His Church? Help the children think of things they can do to follow Jesus at home, at school, and in other places. (Print the below pictures and write their ideas on each place.)
A Christian is someone who believes in and follows Jesus Christ.
Invite the children to read Acts 11:26; 3 Nephi 27:3–8; and Doctrine and Covenants 115:4. Write Christian on the board and underline the part that says “Christ.” Ask the children to share what they think it means to be a Christian.
Ask the children to share the names of different groups they belong to, such as their family or nation. Invite them to share reasons why they are grateful to be a Christian and belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Friend July 2019 “I’m Christian” Poem about the ways we are Christians.
Display several objects or pictures that represent truths unique to the Church of Jesus Christ, such as a picture of the restoration of the priesthood (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 93–94). Ask a child to pick one of the objects or pictures and describe how it is a blessing in our Church. Explain that while Christians throughout the world belong to many different churches, we belong to the same Church that Jesus Christ established on the earth.
Blessings of the gospel Activity: Read the clues below (not the answer) and let the children pick which picture it is describing.
Prophet: Because of this blessing of the gospel we have the privilege to hear Gods words and direction about current issues and challenges we face. This gift is God’s living spokesman.
Book of Mormon: Because of this blessing of the gospel we know the purpose of life. We also know what we need to do to gain eternal salvation and how to live happy lives.
Temples: This blessing of the gospel allows us the opportunity to receive saving ordinances for ourselves and our dead. We can also be sealed to our family so that we can be with them forever.
Priesthood: Because of this blessing of the gospel we can receive healing blessings for the sick, blessings of comfort and guidance, and have authority to act in Gods name and perform saving ordinances, such as baptism.
Baptism Because this blessing of the gospel, when performed by proper priesthood authority, we can receive a remission of our sins and enter into the gate that leads to eternal life.
Holy Ghost Because of this blessing of the gospel we can receive personal revelation and guidance throughout our lives. We can also receive comfort during difficult times.
Divide the class into two groups. Give each group one of the following signs: Jesus Christ’s church when he was on the earth Jesus Christ’s restored church—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Give the group designated “Jesus Christ’s church when he was on the earth” the Bible references listed below, and give the group designated “Jesus Christ’s restored church” the Doctrine and Covenants references listed below. Matthew 3:13, 16 / D&C 20:72–74 (baptism by immersion by someone having authority) Ephesians 2:19–20 / D&C 21:1 (living apostles and prophets) Amos 3:7 / D&C 21:5 (current revelation) Luke 22:19–20 / D&C 20:75 (sacrament) Have each child read aloud one of the scriptures assigned to his or her group. Discuss with the children what these references say about the church of Jesus Christ. Help the children understand that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is organized the same way that Jesus Christ’s church was organized when he was on the earth.
See more about the restoration of the church here.
Invite the children to list some things that are living and some things that are not (if possible, bring pictures or examples). What is the difference between a living thing and a nonliving thing? Read together verse 30. What does it mean that the Church is “true”? that it is “living”?
Display a picture, such as a painting of the Savior, and ask the children to describe it with the lights in the room turned off. Use this activity to help the children see that for many people, the Savior’s true Church is in “obscurity” and “darkness.” How can we help others learn about the Church?
For the Strength of Youth January 2021 “To the Point” The Lord Himself said to Joseph Smith that this Church is “the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth.(Doctrine and Covenants 1:30). This statement certainly does not mean that we’re better than anyone else. But it does mean that this is Jesus Christ’s Church. He leads it, He restored it, and He gave it His authority. Because of this, there are certain things that only this Church can offer, such as prophets and apostles, temple ordinances and covenants, and the Book of Mormon. We’re grateful for these things, and we want to share them with others out of genuine love—not because we want to “be right” or “grow the Church.”
While we can boldly and confidently testify of the Church, we should never be arrogant toward others or disrespect their beliefs. The Prophet Joseph Smith once said, “We don’t ask any people to throw away any good they have got; we only ask them to come and get more” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 155).
Tell the children why you are thankful that we have The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Explain that being a member of the Church prepares us to live with God again. Help them repeat the phrase “I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” several times or sing “The Church of Jesus Christ” (Children’s Songbook, 77). (As the children sing, have them listen for two things they know and five things they will do as members of the Church. List these things on the chalkboard; then have the children sing the song again.)
Friend March 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Find something you can build with, like blocks, sticks, or other objects. Then have a race to build a little Church building out of them.
Friend March 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “I belong to Jesus Christ’s Church.” Teach them to make the shape of a Church building with their hands, or help them draw a picture of themselves going to church.
My membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a treasure. (younger children)
What do the two men in these parables have in common? Are there additional things we should be doing as individuals and as a family to put the kingdom of God first in our lives?
Hide pictures of a treasure chest and a pearl in the room, and let the children find them. Use the pictures to teach about the parables in Matthew 13:44–46. Talk about why someone might give up everything they have for a beautiful pearl or a treasure in a field. Explain that sometimes we give up something good for something even better. Tell the children why the gospel is valuable to you.
Place in a box or chest several objects or pictures that represent “treasures” in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, such as the Savior, temples, or the Book of Mormon. Ask each child to choose an object or picture and talk about why it is a treasure.
Sing together “The Church of Jesus Christ” (Children’s Songbook, 77), and ask the children to talk about reasons they’re thankful for the Savior’s Church. Testify of the blessings you’ve experienced because of your membership in the Church.
Invite the children to read Matthew 13:44–46 to themselves and share the parables in their own words with another class member.
Cut out several circles to represent coins, and put them in a treasure box. Invite the children to pick a coin and draw or write on it one thing they love about being a member of the Church. Ask the children to share what they put on their coin.
Blessings of the gospel Activity: Read the clues below (not the answer) and let the children pick which picture it is describing.
Prophet: Because of this blessing of the gospel we have the privilege to hear Gods words and direction about current issues and challenges we face. This gift is God’s living spokesman.
Book of Mormon: Because of this blessing of the gospel we know the purpose of life. We also know what we need to do to gain eternal salvation and how to live happy lives.
Temples: This blessing of the gospel allows us the opportunity to receive saving ordinances for ourselves and our dead. We can also be sealed to our family so that we can be with them forever.
Priesthood: Because of this blessing of the gospel we can receive healing blessings for the sick, blessings of comfort and guidance, and have authority to act in Gods name and perform saving ordinances, such as baptism.
Baptism Because this blessing of the gospel, when performed by proper priesthood authority, we can receive a remission of our sins and enter into the gate that leads to eternal life.
Holy Ghost Because of this blessing of the gospel we can receive personal revelation and guidance throughout our lives. We can also receive comfort during difficult times.
Invite a ward member to share his or her conversion story with the children and tell what he or she sacrificed to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Or ask the children to talk about sacrifices they make for the Lord and His Church.
Ask the children why they like going to church, and help them name some of the things we do at church. Read to them some of these things from Moroni 6:4–6, 9, and invite them to act out or draw pictures of themselves doing some of these things (such as praying, preaching, singing, and partaking of the sacrament).
Help the children sing a song about attending church, such as “When I Go to Church” (Children’s Songbook, 157). Tell the children why you love going to church and how it has blessed you.
Write Why do we come to church? on the board, and ask the children to write possible answers. Invite them to find additional answers in Moroni 6:4–6, 9 and add them to their list on the board. Invite the children to share how they have been blessed for attending church.
Show pictures or examples of nourishing foods. Why is it important to nourish our bodies? Read together Moroni 6:4, and ask the children what they think the phrase “nourished by the good word of God” means. How does the word of God nourish us? How can we help spiritually nourish each other at church?
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 To praise the Lord means to express our gratitude and love for Him. Help the children learn that we are praising Him when we do things like sing, pray, and obey His teachings.
Invite the children to share experiences when someone praised them or told them they did a good job. Share some of the good things from Psalm 146:6–9 that the Lord has done, and invite the children to talk about other things He does for us. Help them think of ways they can praise Him for those things.
Friend November 2004 “Blessings Tree” Cut out the leaves and place them in a sack. Have the children take turns picking a leaf from the sack, telling how the item written is a blessing, and gluing it to the tree. When they pick a blank leaf, have them share a blessing of their choice that they are thankful for. Then write the blessing on the leaf and glue it to the tree.
Sing together a song of praise, such as “Beauty Everywhere” (Children’s Songbook, 232–33). Explain that for the Israelites long ago, the Psalms were like the songs we sing today to worship and praise God.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 You might invite your family to read a few verses of Psalms 146–50 out loud, trying to convey the feelings of the writer. How can we express our praise to the Lord? Family members might enjoy writing their own psalms of praise and sharing them with each other.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 The traditional Jewish name for the book of Psalms is a Hebrew word that means “praises.” That word, Tehillim, is also related to the exclamation “hallelujah” (meaning “praise Jehovah” or “praise the Lord”). If you had to choose one word to sum up the main message of the Psalms, “praise” would be a good choice. Some of the Psalms contain the direct invitation to “praise ye the Lord” (see especially Psalms 146–50), and all of them can inspire a feeling of worship and praise. The Psalms invite us to reflect on the Lord’s power, on His mercy, and on the great things He has done. We can never repay Him for any of this, but we can praise Him for it. That praise may take different forms for different people—it may involve singing, praying, or bearing testimony. It often leads to a deeper commitment to the Lord and to following His teachings. Whatever “praise ye the Lord” means in your life, you can find more inspiration to do it as you read and ponder the Psalms.
Friend October 1989 “Sing Praises” Lesson ideas and activity. (Activity: Look up scriptures where people in the scriptures sang praises to the Lord and then fill in the blanks.)
When the Church was first organized, there weren’t many members. The Lord asked the Saints to build up the Church by sharing the gospel and strengthening one another. We can do the same today.
Ask the children to find every instance of the words “exhortation” and “exhort” in Doctrine and Covenants 23:3–7; 25:7. Help them define these words. How might exhorting someone strengthen them? Invite the children to role-play “exhorting” someone but doing so with love
Friend February 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Scripture Teamwork” Play a game about working together! Have one person crumple up pieces of paper into balls and throw them in a bowl. Have another person try to stop the papers from going in. Now try it with [one person holding the bowl and moving it towards the thrown paper.] Which time was it easier to get papers in the bowl? (When we help each other, we are more likely to achieve our goals of living the gospel, even when Satan tries to put obstacles in our way.)
Friend February 2024 “Staying Strong Together” When Elder Yamashita was younger only one other person in his school was a member of the church. Some of his friends made bad choices and he struggled to choose the right. Kids from church called every week to see how he was doing. Having friends at church helped him come back to church.
Gathering Together
Choose a key phrase or sentence from Doctrine and Covenants 38:31–33 that you feel describes why the Lord wanted His people to gather together. Scatter words from this sentence around the room, and invite the children to gather them, put them in the right order, and find where the sentence appears in the verses. (Have the children find other reasons in the verses.)
By gathering in Ohio, the members of the Church could escape persecution from enemies in New York, be taught by Joseph Smith and other Church leaders, receive further instructions from the Lord, prepare together to send missionaries to all nations, and support and help each other as they worked to become righteous people.
Give each of the children two pieces of string (adjust this activity as necessary for the material you are using). Ask the children to each break one string.
Was it difficult to break one string?
How strong is each string by itself?
How could we strengthen the strings?
Gather all the children’s unbroken strings into a bundle. Ask a child to try to break the whole bundle at once.
Why are the strings harder to break when they are gathered together?
Explain that just as the strings are stronger when there are many of them together, members of the Church are stronger when they are gathered together. For this reason the Lord instructed the early members of the Church to gather in one place.
“The giant redwood trees that grow in northern California [USA] … have a very shallow root system. But when they are surrounded by other redwood trees, the strongest, fiercest wind cannot blow them over. The roots of the giant redwood trees intertwine and strengthen each other. When a storm comes, they actually hold each other up” (Conference Report, Oct. 1994, p. 103; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, p. 78).
Draw on the chalkboard several trees with their root systems intertwined (see illustration). Ask the children to suggest strengths and qualities they see in others. Label some of the roots with their ideas, and discuss how each individual’s strengths can help strengthen the whole group.
Church members are no longer commanded to gather by moving to one location; in what ways do we gather today? (We gather in wards and stakes.) What blessings do we receive when we meet together?
3 Nephi 4:7–12, 30–33 What did the Nephites do when they saw the Gadianton robbers coming? What can our family learn from the Nephites when we face difficult situations? What can we learn from the Nephites’ words after the Lord helped them in their time of difficulty?
Read with the children the following verses, and invite them to look for reasons why the Nephites gathered together and the blessings that came to them: 3 Nephi 2:11–12 and 3:13–14, 24–26. Why is it important for us to “gather” today in our families and at church? How can gathering make us spiritually stronger?
Use an object lesson to teach that we are stronger together than we are apart. For example, invite the children to try breaking one stick and then a bundle of sticks or tearing one piece of paper and then a stack of papers. How are we like the sticks or the paper? How can we strengthen each other when we gather together in our families or at church?
Friend August 2017 “Row Together” We need each other in order to grow in the gospel and succeed in life. (Link also includes an activity.)
My Example Can Help Others Come to Christ and Find Safety.
The children you teach likely know people who are being affected by the storms of life and need the “refuge” (verse 6) provided in the Church. Consider how you will inspire the children to “arise and shine forth” (verse 5) and share their light with these people.
Pass around a flashlight, a picture of the sun, or something else to represent the light of the Savior’s gospel. When it’s their turn to hold the light, invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 115:4–5 and name something they can do to “shine forth” like a light for others (see 3 Nephi 18:24).
Invite the children to draw a picture depicting Doctrine and Covenants 115:6. For example, they could draw a storm, with people taking refuge in a Church building. What are some things the storm might represent? How does the Church provide refuge from these things?
Invite the children to stand when you read the word “arise” in Doctrine and Covenants 115:5. Invite them to stretch out their fingers like rays of sunlight when you read “shine forth.” Sing together a song about being a light to others, such as “I Am like a Star” (Children’s Songbook, 163). Remind the children that our light comes from Jesus Christ, and help them think of ways they can “shine forth.”
Would it work for your family to read Doctrine and Covenants 115:4–6. while watching a sunrise? It might help you discuss what it means to “arise and shine forth” (verse 5). Or you could also discuss what it is like to seek shelter during a storm. How could that experience be like finding “refuge” in the Church? (verse 6). You could then talk about ways your family can help others enjoy the refuge the Church provides.
Try this activity to teach how gathering as Latter-day Saints gives us strength and protection.
Read together Doctrine and Covenants 115:6: “The gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth.”
Roll a set of dice or have a family member think of a number between 1 and 10.
If the number is odd, name something that will protect you from a physical storm (for example: umbrella, coat, house).
If the number is even, name something that will protect you from a spiritual storm (for example: scriptures, prayer, obedience, our families).
Take turns thinking of answers.
If you have older children, you could discuss the meaning of Zion from the Guide to the Scriptures: “Pure in heart” (Doctrine and Covenants 97:21). How does gathering together with the pure in heart protect us?
Discussion: What are some of the physical and spiritual storms we face? How can we gather in Christ? How can we “arise and shine forth”? (Doctrine and Covenants 115:5).
How can we do better in the work of strengthening other members of the Church?
Ask the children how Samuel knew what to say when he was preaching from the city wall. Invite them to search Helaman 13:2–4 for an answer. Tell about a time when the Holy Ghost helped you know in your heart what God wanted you to do or say. Ask the children to share any similar experiences they have had.
When Samuel the Lamanite was commanded to preach to the Nephites, Heavenly Father helped him know in his heart what he should say.
Teach the children that while we speak to each other using words, the Holy Ghost can communicate through feelings in our hearts. Invite them to hold their hands over their hearts each time you read the word “heart” in Helaman 13:2–5. Help them decorate heart-shaped pieces of paper that say, “The Spirit speaks to me in my heart.”
The Holy Ghost helps them know what Heavenly Father wants them to do and say.
How can we do better in the work of strengthening other members of the Church? To illustrate this principle, give one child a task that requires many helpers. Then ask other children to help, and discuss how much easier the task became. Share an experience in which you were strengthened by the service of a fellow Church member.
Use an object lesson to teach that we are stronger together than we are apart. For example, invite the children to try breaking one stick and then a bundle of sticks or tearing one piece of paper and then a stack of papers. How are we like the sticks or the paper? How can we strengthen each other when we gather together in our families or at church?Come Follow Me for Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 1–7: “Lift Up Your Head and Be of Good Cheer”
Read John 21:15–17, or show the video “Feed My Sheep” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Help the children understand what Jesus wanted Peter to do: share the gospel and invite everyone to believe in Jesus.
Be a good example by attending church, using clean language, obeying the commandments, being honest, praying, studying the scriptures, living what you learn, and obeying your parents and the laws of the land.
Bear testimony to members and nonmembers.
Help others choose the right when they are tempted.
Talk about the gospel to people who don’t know about it.
Pray and study the scriptures to grow closer to the Lord.
Help the children think of things they are doing to love and serve others. What else can we do to show our love?
Write the name of every child in your class on pieces of paper cut into the shape of sheep, and scatter these sheep around the room. (Include the names of children who don’t attend regularly.) Invite the children to gather the sheep by finding the one with their name on it. Help the children think of ways they can reach out to a friend who doesn’t come to church.
Show the children the treat you brought. Point out how wonderful and mouth watering it looks. Take a bite and describe the texture and flavor; tell them how delicious it is. Ask the children how they would feel if you ate the treat in front of them and didn’t share.
Show the treats with the gospel blessing labels attached. Explain to the children that the labeled treats represent the many blessings they enjoy because they are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Read the labels to the children. Ask if it would be fair or right if we kept the blessings of the gospel to ourselves and didn’t share with anyone else.
Tell the children that you brought treats to share with each of them. Ask how that makes them feel.
Read John 21:1–17 together. When you read verses 9–13, ask the children to think about a time when someone made a special meal for them, and invite them to think about ways that Jesus feeds us spiritually. When you read verses 15–17, replace Simon’s name with names of the children.
Who are Jesus’s sheep? How can we help Him feed them?
Be a good example by attending church, using clean language, obeying the commandments, being honest, praying, studying the scriptures, living what you learn, and obeying your parents and the laws of the land.
Bear testimony to members and nonmembers.
Help others choose the right when they are tempted.
Talk about the gospel to people who don’t know about it.
Pray and study the scriptures to grow closer to the Lord.
Share a simple snack with the children. As they are eating, ask them how sharing the gospel with someone is like feeding them.
Show the children the treat you brought. Point out how wonderful and mouth watering it looks. Take a bite and describe the texture and flavor; tell them how delicious it is. Ask the children how they would feel if you ate the treat in front of them and didn’t share.
Show the treats with the gospel blessing labels attached. Explain to the children that the labeled treats represent the many blessings they enjoy because they are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Read the labels to the children. Ask if it would be fair or right if we kept the blessings of the gospel to ourselves and didn’t share with anyone else.
Tell the children that you brought treats to share with each of them. Ask how that makes them feel.
Story: After Jesus was resurrected, He told His disciples to “teach all nations” about His gospel (Matthew 28:19). Today missionaries share the gospel all over the world.
Song: “We’ll Bring the World His Truth” (Children’s Songbook, 172–73)
Activity: Look through this copy of the Friend. How many country names can you find? Pick a country to learn more about. You can start with “Hello from Portugal!” on page 18.
Even young children can follow the counsel to strengthen others “in all your conversation, in all your prayers, … and in all your doings.”
Draw a person on the board, and ask the children to name some things the person could do to become physically stronger. (You might draw bigger muscles on the person as the children name things.) Read Doctrine and Covenants 108:7, and ask the children to listen for ways we can “strengthen [our] brethren [and sisters].” Explain any words that might be difficult.
Help the children think of people they know who may need strengthening. What could we say to them or do for them? Work together to make cards for these people, or encourage the children to remember them in their personal and family prayers.
How can we strengthen each other in our conversations? in our prayers? in our exhortations, or encouragement? in all our doings? You might choose one of these to work on as a family.
Ask them to try to stand up without using their hands for balance.
Choose two family members to sit on the floor, back-to-back, linking arms.
Instruct the family members to push against each other at the same time and stand up. By working together, standing becomes easier.
Repeat the game until everyone has a chance to work together.
Discussion: When we are truly converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ, we can strengthen others. What are some ways Heavenly Father can strengthen us? How can we use our conversion to strengthen others?
In Conversation
Friend October 2019 “Words Matter” The words we say make a big difference. Trace your finger along the lines to see how the words you say can make others feel. Also, make some kind notes to give to others.
In Prayers
Friend March 2020 “Praying for Uncle Dan” At bedtime Isabelle’s family prayed together. They always started by talking about people who might need extra blessings. This time dad asked them to pray for Uncle Dan who had lost his job. Every day they prayed for him, and eventually he started making progress in finding a new job.
Friend March 2020
Friend March 2020
Friend March 2020
Friend March 2020
Friend September 2019 “Praying Like Alma” Joplin got hit by a tornado and Isaac wants to go help, but he’s too young. While learning about Alma’s prayer for his son, Isaac got the idea to pray for the people of Joplin. He said prayers for them everyday.
In Your Exhortations
Friend July 2020 “Kind Enough to Speak Up” Charlie’s friend was mean to people and called them names. Charlie talked to his friend about it and he agreed to stop being mean.
Friend February 2018 “Standing up for Church” Easton is surprised when kids in his international school class laugh when a boy says he goes to church. He decides to do his family identity presentation on church so that others would see why it’s important and not silly.
Friend July 2023 “Magnolia’s Amazing Dad” Some kids in Primary weren’t kind to Magnolia. They told her that her family wasn’t a good family because her Dad wasn’t a member of the church, but he went to church with them, and he did scripture study and prayer with the family. It made her want to cry because her father was an amazing dad. Magnolia talked to her parents and said. “Jesus taught us to be kind to everyone. Saying mean things doesn’t seem like following Jesus.” “You’re right,” said Dad. “Maybe when you feel like saying something mean, you can remember how you felt when others were unkind to you. Then you can say something kind instead.”
Friend November 2018 “Sharing Friendship” Elenoa’s parents buy extra copies of the Friend when they go to the temple. Elenoa and her siblings think of friends who haven’t been coming to Primary, and then they visit them and take them a Friend magazine and a treat. (Photos included in article.)
I can share what I’m learning from the scriptures.
Children can have a great influence on those around them. Like Baruch, they can share what they are learning in the scriptures with others.
Invite the children to do actions that go along with the words as you read (or summarize) Jeremiah 36:4–10, such as pretending to write in a book (see verse 4), holding the bars of a jail (see verse 5), and reading the scriptures to the people (see verses 8, 10). Emphasize that Baruch had the courage to read the words of Jeremiah to the people even though the leaders in Jerusalem didn’t want him to. Help the children to remember something they have learned from the Old Testament and to think of ways they can share it with others.
Sing a song about the scriptures, such as “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, 109). Share your testimony of the scriptures, and invite the children to share their testimonies too.
Friend January 2023 “Lights, Camera, Service!” Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Antonella and Mariana couldn’t go to church in person. There weren’t many video resources in Spanish for Come Follow Me, so they decided to make some to share with others. Making the videos really helped them learn more as well.
Ask one child to read Isaiah 40:3 while the other children each read one of the following passages and look for similar words and phrases: Mark 1:3–4 (John the Baptist); Alma 7:9 (Alma); Doctrine and Covenants 33:10–11 (latter-day missionaries). Help them identify who is preparing “the way of the Lord” in each passage. How did these people prepare the way of the Lord? What can we do to help?
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 40-49”To explore what it might mean to “prepare … the way of the Lord,” your family could straighten something that’s crooked, clear a cluttered floor, or make a clear path in rocky ground. You could also show pictures of John the Baptist and Joseph Smith (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 35, 87). How did they prepare the way for the Lord’s coming?
If you get something straight, you make sure that you understand it properly or that someone else does.
While we’ll all experience stumbling blocks in life, we can make a straight path to Christ for ourselves and others by removing what obstacles we can. We can be dedicated to making our wards and branches welcoming places for all types of people from all walks of life. We can address concerns, answer questions, and sit with someone through doubt until they’re ready to take another step. (LDS Daily “What It Means to Make the Lord’s Path Straight”)
Draw a path on the board, and read with the children Isaiah 40:3–5. Ask the children to list obstacles that might prevent people from following the Savior, and invite them to draw obstacles on the path. Let them erase the obstacles as you talk about ways we can help people overcome them.
Suggestions might include the following: not understanding things that are being taught in Primary, not knowing anyone at church, never having prayed before, never having read the scriptures before, not knowing anything about Jesus, not understanding what the sacrament is for, not believing that Heavenly Father and Jesus could appear to Joseph Smith, etc.
4 Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain:
My friends and I went to see our friend Ruth from church. We brought carrot cake and flowers and sang Primary songs to her. It made us all happy!
Friend October 2017 “Helping Gilly” Brenda calls Gilly to tell her that she and the other girls in Primary miss her.
Friend August 2017 “Reaching Out to New Friends” Elder Anderson shares a story of a boy in Uganda fellowshipping another boy and a story about children behind a fence being invited into a meeting. Sometimes people at church feel like they are behind a fence looking in and need a friend and an invitation to join in.
Friend February 2017 “The Best Part of the Week” Jenny’s family doesn’t go to church very often, but Jenny decides to go by herself after her friend invites her to sit with her family.
Friend February 2017 “Friendship Brownies” Grace’s Primary class makes brownies and a huge card to take to a classmate who hasn’t been coming.
Friend September 2016 “Musical Chairs” A new boy starts attending Elizabeth’s Primary class and he isn’t like the other children, so they start avoiding sitting near him. He stops coming for a while.
Friend September 2022 “Camping Friends” Edison’s family was inactive but some boys from the ward invited him to a camping trip. They also included him at the campground. He had fun and became friends with some boys. They had a testimony meeting and Edison wanted to know what his friends knew about God and Jesus. He decided to go to church even if his family didn’t.
Fellowshipping New Members
Friend April 2018 “Book of Mormon Buddies” Tory is a new member of the church and has a hard time reading the Book of Mormon because of all the unfamiliar words in it. Her friend, Erica, invites Tory to join her family in the mornings for scripture study. This helps Tory until she hurts her ankle and can’t walk to Erica’s. Erica sets up a video call for Tory so she can still read with them.
Friend October 2017 “Helping Gilly” Brenda calls Gilly to tell her that she and the other girls in Primary miss her.
My family picks up new members of our ward to give them rides to church. We invite them to our home for family home evening, dinners, and holidays. We want the new members to feel welcome.
Invite the children to read Galatians 3:26–28 with this question in mind: What happens when I am baptized? You might want to focus on phrases like “put on Christ” or “one in Christ.” What might these phrases mean? How is “putting on Christ” similar to taking His name upon ourselves? (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:75–79). What can we do to show others that we have taken His name upon ourselves? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )
Read together Galatians 3:28, and identify some of the ways people identified themselves when they were baptized in Paul’s day. Help the children name some ways they identify themselves today. What is Paul trying to teach us about how we should see each other when we are baptized? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )
To prepare the Saints to gather, the Lord taught them to see each other as equals and “be one” (verse 27).
Read Doctrine and Covenants 38:24-25 Explain that when God says something twice in a row, it is probably something that we should pay extra attention to. What does it mean to esteem someone as yourself? We need to value others as much as we value ourselves. We need each other. We need each others strength, support, and gifts and talents. Have the children tell what different parts of the body does. Explain that each part of the body is important and needed. Just like our body parts are united and working together, we need to be united as people and learn to work together as one.
Choose a partner and stand next to each other, shoulder to shoulder. Use a scarf or rope to gently tie your ankle to your partner’s. Work together to practice walking. How fast can you get safely from one place to another?
Sing “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel” (Hymns, no. 252).
Help the children understand that we need to work together to help everyone feel comfortable at church. Ask the children to suggest ways to develop unity within your ward (branch) or class. Write their suggestions on the chalkboard. Encourage each child to choose one or two ideas to work on during the coming weeks.Possible suggestions:
Take care of the church building.
Treat others kindly.
Listen to the speakers.
Pray for one another.
Speak kind words.
Listen and participate in Primary class.
Attend ward (branch) activities.
Help everyone feel welcome at Church meetings and activities.
Be cheerful.
Express gratitude for Church leaders and teachers.
Participate willingly when asked to give a talk, pray, or sing.
Ask the children to share an experience when they have felt love and support from their family or from ward or branch members. Ask them how they feel when they receive this kind of support. You may want to share an experience of your own.
Show the children an item used in a skill (such as a set of knitting needles or a musical instrument). Give the item to a child and ask him or her to perform the skill. If you have the particular skill, demonstrate how to use the item properly after the child has attempted to use it. Discuss how difficult it is to do something for the first time without a teacher’s instruction or direction.Relate this to the newly organized Church in 1830. The members were living in various places without any leaders nearby to direct the Church and help the members understand Church teachings. It often took a long time to receive communication from the Prophet. The Church members were anxious to go to Ohio, where they could be instructed by the Prophet and other Church leaders.
Have the children stand. Demonstrate how easy it is for you to move one child alone. Then have the children wrap their arms around each other’s shoulders. Show how much more difficult it is for you to move all the children at once. Help the children understand that when we stand together and support each other, as members of families or members of the Church, it is easier for us to remain firm in our beliefs and do the right things.
Demonstrate the importance of working together by doing the following activity:Cut some strong string or cord into two-yard [two-meter] lengths, one for each child in the class. Have each child tie his or her string a little above midway on a stick about four or five feet [one and a half meters] long, such as a broom or mop handle or a yardstick.Lay the stick in the middle of the classroom with the children sitting around it in a circle. Ask one child to see if he or she can raise the stick to a vertical position by pulling only his or her string. Ask another child to join the first and see if two strings can keep the stick standing. Then ask all the children to pull their strings to hold the stick in a vertical position. (You may have to slightly adjust the places where the strings are tied.)
What happened when one person pulled on the stick? What happened when someone else helped?
What needed to be done in order to make the stick stand upright?Explain that just as everyone needed to work together to make the stick stand upright, Heavenly Father knew the early members of the Church needed to be gathered together in order to strengthen and help each other. We can experience the same strength and support in our own ward (or branch).
1. I know you, and you know me. We are as diff’rent as the sun and the sea I know you, and you know me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
2. I help you, and you help me. We learn from problems, and we’re starting to see. I help you, and you help me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
3. I love you, and you love me We reach together for the best we can be I love you, and you love me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8-13” In Paul’s time, Corinth was a wealthy trade center with residents from all over the Roman Empire. With so many different cultures and religions in the city, Church members in Corinth struggled to maintain unity, so Paul sought to help them find unity in their belief in Christ. This unity was to be more than just peaceful coexistence; Paul wasn’t asking them merely to tolerate each other’s differences. Rather, he taught that when you join the Church of Jesus Christ, you are “baptized into one body,” and every body part is needed (1 Corinthians 12:13). When one member is lost, it’s like losing a limb, and the body is weaker as a result. When one member suffers, we should all feel it and do our part to relieve it. In this kind of unity, differences are not just acknowledged but cherished, because without members of diverse gifts and abilities, the body would be limited. So whether you feel like you’ve always been at home in the Church or find yourself wondering if you truly belong, Paul’s message to you is that unity is not sameness. You need your fellow Saints, and your fellow Saints need you.
Paul’s analogy of a body could be a memorable way to discuss family unity. For example, family members could try drawing a body made only of eyes or ears (see verse 17). What do these verses suggest about how we should treat each other as family members?
Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Point to some body parts and ask your little ones why each part is important. Explain that all the parts work together to help us do things. God loves all His children. He wants us to work together to help and serve others.
New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “1 Corinthians 12” Paul wrote to the Saints in Corinth to help them recognize their need to be unified in Christ. He taught that if all members would recognize and use the spiritual gifts they had received from the Lord, they could be like the many parts of a body working together in unison.
Imagine what music would be like if every instrument sounded the same. What if every key on a piano played the same note or if every voice in a choir were identical? This would make music very boring!
As with music, Heavenly Father rejoices in the varied talents, personalities, and experiences of each of His children, each a beloved daughter or son.
Read Doctrine and Covenants 46:5 aloud, and tell the children in your own words what this verse means. Show pictures of people from around the world. Ask the children which of these people Heavenly Father would want us to invite to our Church meetings. Help the children practice inviting you or each other to come to a Church meeting or activity.
Ask the children to imagine that a friend is coming to church for the first time. Help them think of ways they could help their friend feel welcome. Let them practice what they would say or do if they saw a friend walk into the chapel or the classroom for the first time.
Friend February 2020 “A Kind Primary Class” Jayden was nervous to go to a different ward when he was out of town. But when he got to Primary he felt better because the other kids included him and were kind. They shared their scriptures with him, talked to him, and helped him. They became his friends. Activity: Aria is new at church. Fill in the speech bubbles with what you could say. How could you help a visitor feel welcome?
Friend September 2021 “New Amigos” Brigit’s family had just moved to Venezuela and she was worried and scared about going to church because she didn’t speak Spanish. When they walked into the chapel, two girls her age rushed over to meet her. When they realized she didn’t speak English they told her their names, sat with her, and started teaching her Spanish. The girls helped Brigit feel welcomed and happy .
Friend May 2021 “Tara’s New Friend” Tara sees a boy sitting alone at church. She doesn’t speak his language so she decides to draw pictures for him.
There are all kinds of children in the world. And Heavenly Father loves them all! He wants us to love them too. How many hearts can you find?
Friend September 2022 “Singing Time Together” During singing time, Sarah notices a girl sitting alone and not singing. Sarah goes and sits by her and whispers the words of the song to her so she can sing too. Sarah finds out that it was the girl’s first time in Primary.
Friend July 2018 “Take Care of Each Other” Joseph Smith organized wards in Nauvoo as a way to take care of the many people who were moving there. Today, wards continue to help us take care of each other
Ask the children if any of them can say the full name of the Church. Show them the Church logo (on a Church publication or missionary name tag), write the name on the board, or read it to them from Doctrine and Covenants 115:4. Ask the children to say the name with you as you point to each word. Point out significant words in the name, and help the children understand why these words are important (see “Chapter 43: Jesus Christ Names His Church,” Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 164).
Read 3 Nephi 27:8 together. Explain what each word in the name of the Church means: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Sing “The Church of Jesus Christ”(Children’s Songbook,77).
Come up with actions for the different words in the song. For example, you could stand up when you sing the word “I,” touch your head when you sing “know,” and march in place for “follow.”
Practice using these different actions as you sing the song together.
Discussion: Why is the full name of the Church important? How can you politely help people understand the full name of the Church when they refer to us as “Mormons”?
Sing together “The Church of Jesus Christ” (Children’s Songbook, 77), and share with the children how you feel about being a member of Jesus Christ’s Church. Let them share how they feel about the Church.
Ask each child to say his or her name. Why are our names important? Tell them that Jesus’s disciples wanted to know what they should name Christ’s Church. Read to them the Savior’s response in 3 Nephi 27:7. Who did Jesus say His Church should be named after?
Ask the children to help you write each word of the name of the Church on a separate piece of paper. Then mix the papers up, and invite the children to arrange these words in order. What blessings have we received because we are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
Friend November 2018 “The Correct Name of the Church” The prophet, Russell M. Nelson, directs church members to use the correct name of the church. Questions are answered to explain why. Also a book mark is included and an example cartoon of how to respond when people ask what church we belong to.
When members receive callings or priesthood ordinations in the Church, we have the opportunity to formally sustain them by raising our right hands as a show of support. The principle of demonstrating public support and agreement is called common consent. As President Gordon B. Hinckley taught, “The procedure of sustaining is much more than a ritualistic raising of the hand. It is a commitment to uphold, to support, to assist those who have been selected” (“This Work Is Concerned with People,” Ensign, May 1995, 51).
Sustaining is a chance to show and give our support and to acknowledge the will of God.
What does it mean to sustain members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles?
We often think of sustaining Church leaders as the physical act of raising our hand. But sustaining is more than just giving an outward sign. Sustaining includes supporting, encouraging, trusting, and following those we sustain because we believe they are called of God.
We Are Blessed as We Sustain Our Church Leaders.
To help the children review the story in Exodus 17:8–16, write on the board: Who helped Moses during the battle? What did they do? What was the result? Invite the children to look for answers in the verses. What does this story teach about how we can help God’s kingdom be successful? What can we do to support, sustain, and follow our Church leaders?
Invite the children to read Exodus 17:8–16 and draw a picture of what they read. Encourage them to write on their drawing a message they learn from the story. Why is this an important message for us today?
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 14–17” You might act out the story of Aaron and Hur holding up the hands of Moses and discuss how this could symbolize how we sustain those whom God has called to lead us. You might also contrast the example of Aaron and Hur with the Israelites’ murmuring against Moses (described throughout chapters 15–17). What are some ways we can help and sustain our leaders? What blessings come to us and our leaders as we do?
Zion
Zion:
Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles declared, “From the day of Adam to the present moment—whenever the Lord has had a people of his own; whenever there have been those who have hearkened to his voice and kept his commandments; whenever his saints have served him with full purpose of heart—there has been Zion. “Liahona September 2021 “Bring Forth Zion”
Down through history God has regularly called His people to establish Zion. That was usually a particular place where God’s people could be free from the influences of the world and live in harmony with one another. But in this last great dispensation, Zion is not limited to one geographic location. In our day, Zion can be wherever a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is found. The Lord described these people of Zion as being “of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18) and “pure in heart” (Doctrine and Covenants 97:21). In short, we no longer think of Zion as where we are going to live but how we are going to live. For the Strength of Youth September 2021 “Seeking Zion and the Lord’s Blessings”
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, “We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object” (Teachings: Joseph Smith, 186). To the Saints in the 1830s, Zion was a place, the literal “city of our God” (Doctrine and Covenants 97:19). But in the revelation recorded in section 97, the Lord expanded that view. Zion also describes a people—“the pure in heart” (verse 21).
Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 97:21, and ask them what the word “pure” means. To illustrate, show them a glass of clean water, and discuss why it is important to have clean water. Add something to the water that makes it impure (such as dirt or pepper). Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 97:21 again and put their finger on the word “pure.” What does it mean for our hearts to be pure? Help the children understand that being pure in heart doesn’t mean we never make mistakes. What can we do to become more pure in heart? How does the Savior help us?
Help the children search Doctrine and Covenants 97:1–2, 8–9, 21, looking for words or phrases that describe how to become pure in heart. Ask them to pick a word or phrase, write it on a slip of paper, and place it in a container. Draw out one slip at a time, and ask the children to suggest things they can do to use that idea in their lives. For example, what can we do to “find truth” (verse 1) or be more “honest” (verse 8)?
Pure in Heart:
Someone who is genuinely clean and good in thought and action.
What are some examples of good thoughts and actions?
How have we done these things?
This video isn’t made by members of the church, but it does give a good explanation for what it means to be pure of heart.
Zion (the Lord’s Church) Shall Be “An Ensign Unto the People.”
A standard is something established by authority… as a model or example
41 For, behold, I say unto you that Zion shall flourish, and the glory of the Lord shall be upon her; 42 And she shall be an ensign unto the people, and there shall come unto her out of every nation under heaven.
Bring a flashlight or a picture of the sun, and compare light to the power of a righteous example. Just as the light from a flashlight or the sun can help us see a path we need to follow, a righteous example shows us what to do in order to follow Heavenly Father. What can the children do to be a good example to others? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 39-42”
Friend April 2018 “A High-Five Example”Students in a special needs class we’re trying to give Lily’s classmates high fives as they walked by, but nobody did it until Lily gave them all high fives then everyone behind her did it.
Zion can be built only on principles of righteousness.
Why did the Saints lose their promised land in Missouri? And why didn’t the Lord allow Zion’s Camp to restore them to their lands? Certainly the violent actions of Missouri mobs played a role, and the governor of Missouri had pledged support for the Saints but never gave it. But the Lord said that “were it not for the transgressions of my people,” Zion “might have been redeemed” (Doctrine and Covenants 105:2). As you read Doctrine and Covenants 103:1–12, 36; 105:1–19, you may notice some things that hindered the establishment of Zion in Missouri and others that could have helped. What do you learn that can help you establish Zion in your heart and home?
My Example Can Help Others Come to Christ and Find Safety.
The children you teach likely know people who are being affected by the storms of life and need the “refuge” (verse 6) provided in the Church. Consider how you will inspire the children to “arise and shine forth” (verse 5) and share their light with these people.
Pass around a flashlight, a picture of the sun, or something else to represent the light of the Savior’s gospel. When it’s their turn to hold the light, invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 115:4–5 and name something they can do to “shine forth” like a light for others (see 3 Nephi 18:24).
Invite the children to draw a picture depicting Doctrine and Covenants 115:6. For example, they could draw a storm, with people taking refuge in a Church building. What are some things the storm might represent? How does the Church provide refuge from these things?
Invite the children to stand when you read the word “arise” in Doctrine and Covenants 115:5. Invite them to stretch out their fingers like rays of sunlight when you read “shine forth.” Sing together a song about being a light to others, such as “I Am like a Star” (Children’s Songbook, 163). Remind the children that our light comes from Jesus Christ, and help them think of ways they can “shine forth.”
Would it work for your family to read Doctrine and Covenants 115:4–6. while watching a sunrise? It might help you discuss what it means to “arise and shine forth” (verse 5). Or you could also discuss what it is like to seek shelter during a storm. How could that experience be like finding “refuge” in the Church? (verse 6). You could then talk about ways your family can help others enjoy the refuge the Church provides.
Try this activity to teach how gathering as Latter-day Saints gives us strength and protection.
Read together Doctrine and Covenants 115:6: “The gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth.”
Roll a set of dice or have a family member think of a number between 1 and 10.
If the number is odd, name something that will protect you from a physical storm (for example: umbrella, coat, house).
If the number is even, name something that will protect you from a spiritual storm (for example: scriptures, prayer, obedience, our families).
Take turns thinking of answers.
If you have older children, you could discuss the meaning of Zion from the Guide to the Scriptures: “Pure in heart” (Doctrine and Covenants 97:21). How does gathering together with the pure in heart protect us?
Discussion: What are some of the physical and spiritual storms we face? How can we gather in Christ? How can we “arise and shine forth”? (Doctrine and Covenants 115:5).
Friend May 2019 “Funstuff: Mother’s Day Wreath” Write things you love about someone on paper hearts, and then follow the directions and make a wreath with the hearts.
Friend March 2019 Color the heart and label it with the people and activities you love. (Link also includes an example for making a map of the heart.)
Ways to Show Love
Friend March 2019 “Lots of Ways to Say “I Love You” Play this game with family or friends. Do the action on the square when you land on it.
Friend August 2018 Find the words below that tell how we can share the Savior’s love with others.
Ask each child to say his or her name. Why are our names important? Tell them that Jesus’s disciples wanted to know what they should name Christ’s Church. Read to them the Savior’s response in 3 Nephi 27:7. Who did Jesus say His Church should be named after?
Ask the children to help you write each word of the name of the Church on a separate piece of paper. Then mix the papers up, and invite the children to arrange these words in order. What blessings have we received because we are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
Friend November 2018 “The Correct Name of the Church” The prophet, Russell M. Nelson, directs church members to use the correct name of the church. Questions are answered to explain why. Also a book mark is included and an example cartoon of how to respond when people ask what church we belong to.
Friend July 2019 “It is His Church” When Taniela B. Wakolo of the Seventy was learning about the church, the missionaries asked him what he would name his grocery store if he had one. He said he would call after his name because it would be his store. They then ask who a church should be name after. He knew that the true Church would be named after Jesus because it’s His Church. (Activity: In any language, the Church is still named after Jesus Christ. Match each language with the Church’s name in that language.
Read 3 Nephi 27:8 together. Explain what each word in the name of the Church means: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Sing “The Church of Jesus Christ”(Children’s Songbook,77).
Come up with actions for the different words in the song. For example, you could stand up when you sing the word “I,” touch your head when you sing “know,” and march in place for “follow.”
Practice using these different actions as you sing the song together.
Discussion: Why is the full name of the Church important? How can you politely help people understand the full name of the Church when they refer to us as “Mormons”?
Explain to the children that the word gospel means “good news” (see Bible Dictionary, “Gospels”). Help the children search 3 Nephi 27:13–15 for something that sounds like good news to them. Why are we grateful to know the gospel of Jesus Christ?
Write on the board principles of the gospel like faith, repentance, baptism,the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. Invite the children to search 3 Nephi 27:19–21, looking for these words or similar words in Jesus’s description of His gospel.
Invite the children to talk about what makes them happy.
Show pictures of happy people. Explain that the people in 4 Nephi had almost 200 years of happiness because they all tried their best to live the gospel. Help the children think of some commandments they could obey. For example, you could read them 4 Nephi 1:15 to teach that the people didn’t fight with each other anymore. Invite the children to act out obeying the commandments they thought of. Sing together a song about the joy that comes from living the gospel, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198).
To reduce contention in your home, perhaps family members could set a goal to be more loving to each other this week. After the week is over, review your progress together and discuss how showing greater love has affected your family.
Read phrases from 4 Nephi 1:24–29, 34–35, and 43 that describe what happened when some of the Nephites stopped keeping the commandments. As you do, invite the children to make a sad face when they hear something that sounds unhappy. Testify that keeping the commandments leads to happiness.
To help the children practice what is taught in 4 Nephi 1:15–16, present them with situations where people are angry with each other. Invite them to role-play what the situation might be like if they tried to live with “no contention.” Why is it easier to avoid contention when we have the “love of God” in our hearts?
Read with the children the following verses, and ask them to find reasons the Nephites and Lamanites no longer had peace and happiness: 4 Nephi 1:20, 24–29, 34–35, and 43. How can we avoid these dangers?
Ensign October 2020 “What Does it Mean to be Truly Converted?” After the Savior’s appearance to the Nephites, they experienced nearly 200 years of unity and peace because they were “all converted unto the Lord” (4 Nephi 1:2). Compare the happiness of the righteous Nephites to the sorrow when they were unrighteous. Ponder the difference and find ways you can become more converted to the Lord.
To help family members understand the joy the Savior described in these verses, you could play a game in which family members hide and another family member tries to find them. This could lead to a conversation about why it’s important to find every family member so that “none of them are lost.” How can we help our family members stay strong in the gospel or return if they have left?
What would you say if the Savior asked you, as He asked His disciples, “What is it that ye desire of me?” (3 Nephi 28:1). Think about this as you read about the experience of the Savior’s disciples in 3 Nephi 28:1–11. What do you learn about the desires of the disciples’ hearts from their answers to His question?
Book of Mormon: Coloring Book “The Twelve Nephite Disciples” Nine of Jesus’s twelve disciples lived to age 72 because they wanted to speedily return to Jesus. The other three disciples wanted to live until Jesus comes again. Find the Three Nephites in the bottom half of the page who did not get old.
What can we learn from Mormon’s example when he did not understand everything about the change that happened to the three Nephite disciples? What can we do when we don’t understand everything about a gospel principle?
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
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
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
Prayer, Testimony, Baptism: I love to pray. Praying makes me feel safe. Before I was baptized, I prayed to know if Jesus is real, and my answer was YES! My answer helped me know getting baptized was the right choice. Hayden B., age 8, Washington, USA
Music: I love to sing with the stake choir. When I’m singing with them, I feel like I’m teaching the gospel through music. Damaris G., age 10, Jalisco, Mexico
Testimony: I love to share my testimony and was asked to share it in stake conference. I know Jesus Christ loves me! Ezra C., age 8, Wyoming, USA
Testimony: I wanted to know if I had a testimony. My mom asked me if I believed in Jesus, if I believed Joseph Smith was a prophet, and if I believed the Church is true. I said yes! My mom said that meant I had a testimony. I’m so grateful I have a testimony of my own. Matthew G., age 8, Missouri, USA
Charity, Love, Service: I learned about charity from my mom. Charity means we love one another. I have charity when I help my classmates. Sophie C., age 8, Taoyuan District, Taiwan
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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)
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.
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.
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.
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)
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
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
KindnessIncluding 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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
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
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.
