Jan 21 2021

Church Service

Posted on January 21, 2021 by Camilla

The Lord Needs Me to Do His Work.
I Can Serve the Lord with My Heart and Mind.
The Lord Will Help Me Accomplish His Will.
Ways to Serve
Callings
Song Ideas

The Lord Needs Me to Do His Work.

Friend January 2023 “Helping with Heavenly Father’s Work” Heavenly Father’s work is to help all His children to come back and live with Him (see Moses 1:39). You can help as you do four things: live, care, invite, and unite. (See lesson at link.)

Doctrine and Covenants 4

D&C 4:2 See that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.

The Lord invites me to help with His work.

Doctrine and Covenants 4

Though he had not yet associated himself with any organized religion, Joseph Smith Sr. believed what his son shared about his heavenly visions and supported him in his translation of the Book of Mormon. Joseph Sr. wanted to serve God but did not know what to do. In February 1829, he and his wife visited Joseph Jr. in Harmony, Pennsylvania. During that visit, the Prophet Joseph received Doctrine and Covenants 4 in answer to his father’s question. (Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 4”)

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “D&C 3-5”

Each verse in Doctrine and Covenants 4 contains precious truths that can help your children learn about serving God. Here are some ideas to help them discover these truths:

1. You could read together Doctrine and Covenants 4:1 and show pictures that depict God’s “marvelous” latter-day work (such as missionaries, temples, and the Book of Mormon).

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.

2. Your children could think of actions or draw pictures depicting the phrase “serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength” (Doctrine and Covenants 4:2).

(It might help to explain that our heart refers to our feelings and love and our mind refers to our thoughts.)

Friend June 2021 “One Peach at a Time” When Sister Eubanks was a child she went to a church farm to help pick peaches. Pretty soon she and her sister didn’t want to do it anymore because the peach fuzz was making their arms itch. Their mother explained that the peaches would be going to feed families who needed food. After that they stopped worrying about their itchy arms because they were helping to feed families who needed food! (They had a willing heart and mind.)

Friend September 2013 “I Will Serve God with All My Heart, Might, Mind, and Strength” Article includes a story of a child serving with her heart. It also describes what it means to serve with each of the following: heart, mind, and strength.

(Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 4”)

Imagine someone doing one of the following acts of service for you:

Talking to you to see how you are doing
Helping you with a task you have to do
Praying for you

How might it affect you if they served in the following ways? Why?

Wholeheartedly or half-heartedly
Patiently or impatiently
Motivated by love for you or by something else

Friend December 2018 Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

Friend February 2025 “Come, Follow Me Activities” We can follow Jesus Christ with all our hearts (see Doctrine and Covenants 4:2). Cut out 10 small paper hearts. On each heart, write one way you can follow the Savior. Place the hearts overlapping each other in a circle and glue in place to make a wreath.

For younger children: Cut out a heart for your child to color. As they color, tell them how you try to follow Jesus Christ with all your heart.

Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine & Covenants 4”

What blessings do these verses contain for those who serve God with all their heart, might, mind, and strength?

May stand blameless before God at the last day. Vs 2
Bringeth salvation to his soul. Vs 4

After teaching about the blessings of serving God with all our heart, might, mind, and strength, the Lord listed multiple attributes that can help us as we serve. Jesus Christ possesses each of these attributes and invites us to develop them in our own lives. As we do so, we become more like Him and can serve as He serves.

3. Bring tools (or pictures of tools) that someone might use to work in a field. How do these tools help us? Then your children could find things in Doctrine and Covenants 4:5–6 that are like tools for doing God’s work.

Come Follow Me Kid The Lord’s Worker Hat – Talk about different jobs and what qualifies people to do those jobs (bakers need to know how to combine ingredients, mailmen need to know how to drive and where the different envelopes and packages go, etc.). What do people need to know about and be able to do if their job is to be a grocery store clerk? Doctor? Garbage man? Etc. The manual says, “Section 4 is often applied to full-time missionaries. However, it’s interesting to note that this revelation was given originally to Joseph Smith Sr., who wasn’t being called on a mission but still had ‘desires to serve God’ (verse 3). One way to read this section is to imagine it as a job description for someone who wants to do the Lord’s work. What are the qualifications? Why are these skills or characteristics necessary?”

Hat: Give them a “The Lord’s Worker” hat (on pages 3, 4, and 5 below) and tell them that the Lord has said He’s doing a “marvelous” work right now and we get to be his working helpers! While putting the hat together, discuss specific things we might to do to help the Lord with His work (be kind to others, stand up for what’s right, etc.).
What if our job was to do the Lord’s work? What kinds of things would we need to know? What would we need to be able to do? What kind of people should we be?
Stars: Glue the “job description” stars (on page 5 below) onto the hat while discussing each. Explain that we’re not expected to have all of these characteristics automatically. They take time to develop and improve. The student manual says, “The Lord does not require a person to be physically gifted or intellectually brilliant to help with His work. He asks that the person strive to develop Christlike attributes.”
Put the hat on and take turns sharing ways you can be a worker for the Lord at home, school, and with friends.

D&C 4:4 “For behold the field is white already to harvest;”

(In verse 4, the Lord compares wheat that is ready to harvest to people who are ready to receive the gospel. A sickle is a tool for harvesting.)

Ensign August 2015 “Thrust in Your Sickle”

You could sing together a song about missionary work, such as “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 168).

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 3–5: “My Work .

Latter Day Kids “The Field is White” Includes lesson, song and activity ideas.

“I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162)

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 14–17: “Stand as a Witness”

When he met Joseph Smith, David Whitmer was a young man dedicated to his work on the family farm. But the Lord had a different labor in mind for David—though in some ways it was a bit like farming. As you read Doctrine and Covenants 14:1–4, notice how the Lord compares His work to the kind of work David was familiar with.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 14–17: “Stand as a Witness”

Help the children understand the comparisons between working in a field and participating in God’s “great and marvelous work” (verse 1). For example, reaping a harvest can symbolize bringing souls to Christ. You could show a picture of a farmer, bring farmers’ clothes for the children to try on, or discuss everyday tasks that farmers perform. Explain that David Whitmer was a farmer who wanted to know how he could help the Lord. Read Doctrine and Covenants 14:3–4 to the children, and help them discover what the Lord told David Whitmer to do. How can we help in the Lord’s work?

John Whitmer and Peter Whitmer Jr. were David Whitmer’s brothers. Like David, they wanted to know how they could help the Lord. He asked them to help “bring souls unto” Him.

Ask the children to describe something that is important or valuable to them (such as a toy, book, or game). Read Doctrine and Covenants 15:6 or 16:6, and ask the children to raise their hands when they hear what the Lord said is of “most worth.”
With the children, make a list of ways they can help someone follow Jesus Christ, such as being friends to others, sharing the scriptures with a friend, or praying for someone in need.

God Can Work Through Each of Us to Fulfill His Purposes.

Exodus CHAPTER 1

The children of Israel multiply—They are placed in bondage by the Egyptians—Pharaoh seeks to destroy the sons born to Hebrew women.

Exodus CHAPTER 2

Moses is born to Levite parents, is raised by Pharaoh’s daughter, slays an Egyptian in defense of an Israelite, flees to Midian, and marries Zipporah—Israel in bondage cries to the Lord.

Old Testament Stories “Baby Moses” Illustrations and video

Exodus 1–2

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6 Moses had a major role in freeing Israel from bondage. But he wouldn’t have been able to accomplish this if his mother, his sister, Pharaoh’s daughter, and other faithful women hadn’t protected and cared for him. Many people helped fulfill God’s purposes by preserving the life of young Moses. How can you help the children you teach understand the vital role we all play in fulfilling God’s will

Junior: Use this week’s activity page and “Baby Moses” (in Old Testament Stories) to tell the children how Jochebed (Moses’s mother), Miriam (his sister), and Pharaoh’s daughter cared for Moses. Emphasize that because of these and other faithful women, Moses was kept safe and would one day lead the children of Israel to safety. Invite the children to draw a picture of people who care for them
Senior: Invite the children to share what they know about Moses when he was a baby. Use this week’s activity page and Exodus 1:22; 2:1–10 to summarize the story of Moses’s childhood. Read the scripture references on the activity page, and ask the children what each of the women did to preserve Moses’s life.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6” Several women played critical roles in God’s plan to raise up a deliverer for the Israelites. As a family, you could read about the midwives Shiphrah and Puah (Exodus 1:15–20); Moses’s mother, Jochebed, and his sister, Miriam (Exodus 2:2–9; Numbers 26:59); Pharaoh’s daughter (Exodus 2:5–6, 10); and Moses’s wife Zipporah (Exodus 2:16–21). How did these women further God’s plan?

Latter Day Kids “Baby Moses” Lesson Ideas

Friend March 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Lesson 18: The Birth and Calling of Moses,” Primary 6: Old Testament Tie the ends of the yarn together. Hand the yarn to a child and tell him or her to hold it up in a circle using only his or her hands. When the child cannot do so, ask another child to help, then another until all the children are helping form the yarn into a circle. (If you have only two or three children in the class, have them make a square or a six-sided figure.)

Explain that as each person was needed to help make the shape, each of us has a mission to fulfill in the kingdom of God. Tell the children that in this lesson they will learn about the prophet Moses and the mission he was called to perform.

Explain that there are many important things that Heavenly Father and Jesus need us to do. Ask the children to take turns writing their suggestions on the chalkboard. These may include being a parent, a teacher, a Church leader, or a good example. Emphasize that each of us has at least one mission to perform on earth and that God needs all of us to help build his kingdom.

Tell the children about people you admire because of their faithfulness in serving God and those around them, even when they serve in small ways. Invite the children to talk about people they know who have faithfully served God and others. What is our part in God’s work?

Friend March 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Story: When Moses was a baby, his mother hid him in a basket to keep him safe. His sister helped take care of him too. He grew up and became a prophet. (See Exodus 2:1–10.)

Song: “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook,236)

Activity: You can help others too! Go to page 12 to make a paper basket, like the one Moses was in. On pieces of paper, write ways you can serve others (and God). Then put the papers in the basket. When you want to help someone, choose a piece of paper and do what it says.

Friend March 2022 “Make a Basket for Baby Moses”

Sing together a song about service, such as “‘Give,’ Said the Little Stream” (Children’s Songbook, 236). Help the children think of simple things they can do to help others at home, at church, and at school.

I can be an instrument in God’s hands.

Esther 4:14

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Esther” When Esther was fearful, Mordecai encouraged her by teaching her that perhaps the Lord had made her the queen “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Ponder how the Lord is preparing the children you teach for their opportunities to bless others.

Invite someone to play a song for the children on a musical instrument, or display a picture of someone playing an instrument. Talk about what it means to be an instrument in God’s hands. Review the story of Esther with the children (see “Queen Esther” in Old Testament Stories), and invite them to talk about how Esther was an instrument for the Lord to accomplish His purposes. How can we be instruments for the Lord?

After reviewing the story of Esther, attach a card with the name of one of the characters from the story on the back of each child. Invite the children to try to find out whose name is on their backs by asking other children questions like “Was this person righteous?” or “Was this person a woman?” Then discuss how Mordecai and Esther were instruments for the Lord to save the Jews.

Liahona July 2022 “Coming Closer to Jesus Christ”

For Such a Time as This

Esther 4–7

Esther was courageous in approaching the king and saving her people.

Sit in a circle and ask a family member to name a scripture hero who was courageous, stating one way in which the person showed courage (example: Esther, courage to speak).
The next person in the circle says the name of the first hero and then chooses another person in the scriptures they think was courageous and explains why.
Continue around the circle, naming each scripture character who has been selected and adding a new one. Keep playing until everyone in the family has had at least one turn.

Discussion: How can we be courageous in our time and in our specific circumstances? How can we bless the lives of others when we act courageously and do the right thing?

Poster: Bright Idea (November 2013 Friend)

Alma 17–19

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “Alma 17-22”

To learn about being an instrument in God’s hands, as the sons of Mosiah were, you and your children could look at an instrument or tool and talk about what it’s used for. Then you could read Alma 17:11 and talk about what it means to be Heavenly Father’s instruments to help people learn about Jesus Christ.

The Red Crystal

Primary 4 Manual: Book of Mormon Chapter 17 Show the children a few tools or instruments used by builders, doctors, gardeners, painters, and so forth. Ask the children to tell what they know about each one, who uses it, and how it is used.

Friend July 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Instruments in God’s Hands” Ammon said to his brothers, “We have been made instruments in the hands of God to bring about this great work” (Alma 26:3). Gather objects you can use to make music. Then make up beats and songs. Just like we use instruments to make music, God can use us to help build Jesus Christ’s Church.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 What other tools do the children know of? Invite them to pretend to use a tool. Explain that just as we use instruments or tools to get things done, Heavenly Father can use us to do His work. Read Alma 17:11, and explain that Ammon and his brothers were Heavenly Father’s instruments to help the Lamanites learn the gospel. How can you be an instrument in God’s hands to bless others? President Thomas S. Monson said, “I always want the Lord to know that if He needs an errand run, Tom Monson will run that errand for Him” (“On the Lord’s Errand: The Life of Thomas S. Monson,”

I Can Help “Advance the Cause” of Jesus Christ.

Doctrine and Covenants 78:3–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

In section 78, the Lord gave specific instructions to several Church leaders that would help them “advance the cause” of the Lord (verse 4). Help the children consider what their roles might be in advancing the Lord’s cause.

Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:4. What is the “cause” we “espoused” (accepted or chose to support) when we were baptized? Encourage them to look in scripture passages like these for possible answers: Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:37; Moses 1:39.
Explain to the children that Newel K. Whitney owned a store and that the Lord asked him and other men to use some of their money to help pay for the Lord’s work (see Doctrine and Covenants 63:42–43). Invite them to read Doctrine and Covenants 78:3–7 and look for reasons these men were asked to do so. How would we have felt if we were asked to share like Newel did? Help them think of ways people contribute to the Lord’s work in our day, such as paying tithing and fast offerings, serving in callings, and so on.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 51–57”

Hide the words “faithful,” “just,” and “wise” around the room. Invite the children to find the words in the room and then find them in Doctrine and Covenants 51:19. Read the verse together, and talk about what it means to be a steward. “A person who takes care of the affairs or property of another. That which a steward cares for is called a stewardship. All things on earth belong to the Lord; we are His stewards. We are accountable to the Lord.” (“Steward, Stewardship” in the Guide to the Scriptures).
Tell the children about William W. Phelps, who was a newspaper publisher before hearing the gospel and moving to Kirtland. Ask the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 55:1–4 and list what God wanted William to do. Which of these things can apply to all of us, and which are specific to William because of his talents? Ask the children to identify talents they see in each other, and discuss how they can use those talents to serve God and His children.

How did the Lord use William Phelps’s abilities as a writer and printer? (for example, see the author index in the hymnbook for a list of hymns he wrote). Maybe family members could talk about the talents and abilities they see in each other. How can our talents contribute to God’s work? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 51–57”

Make a list of your talents! You could ask your friends and family for ideas too. How can you use the talents Heavenly Father gave you to help bless others? You may wish to read some of the below stories to see how others used their talents to help others.

I can choose to serve Jesus Christ.

Joshua CHAPTER 24

Joshua recites how the Lord has blessed and led Israel—Joshua and all the people covenant to choose the Lord and serve Him only—Joshua and Eleazar die—The bones of Joseph, taken from Egypt, are buried in Shechem.

Joshua 24:15

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” Among Joshua’s final words to the Israelites was a plea to “choose … this day whom ye will serve.” Ponder how this counsel could also bless the children you teach.

Ask the children to talk about some of the choices they have made today. Read to the children from Joshua 24:15: “Choose you this day whom ye will serve; … but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” How have the children chosen to serve the Lord today? What are some ways we can choose to serve Him every day?
Sing a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). How do we feel when we choose to serve Jesus Christ? Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves doing something to serve the Lord. Share a story from your life or from a Church magazine about choosing to serve the Lord.

Latter Day Kids “Choose You This Day” Lesson ideas

Joshua 24:15

Invite the children to create a poster using some of the key words and phrases in Joshua 24:15. Let them share their posters and explain why they chose those words. How can we show God that we have chosen to serve Him?
Invite the children to suggest situations in which they might have to decide to choose God over other things. Ask them to consider what they would do. Why is it important to “choose … this day” rather than waiting for the situation to arise? How will we be blessed when we make the right choice?

After reading this verse, family members could share experiences in which they chose to serve the Lord even though it was difficult. Why is it important to make the choice to serve Him “this day” instead of waiting to decide until a situation arises? How can we support members of our “house” as we strive to “serve the Lord”? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24”)

For additional teachings ideas see “Priorities“

Lesson 23: Joshua Leads Israel,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 101–5
To help the children choose to serve the Lord

I Can Serve the Lord with My Heart and Mind.

Doctrine and Covenants 64:33–34

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

The Lord taught the Saints that to build Zion, they needed to give Him their hearts and willing minds. Consider how you will help the children begin to think about what this means for them.

Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 64:34: “Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.” Repeat this phrase a few times, pointing to your heart and head as you read those words, and invite the children to do the same. How can we give our hearts and minds to the Savior? (It might help to explain that our heart refers to our feelings and love and our mind refers to our thoughts.)

Show the children some things that are made up of many small parts, like a puzzle or a rug. Help them think of other examples. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:33. What does God want us to do to help Him accomplish His “great work”? What are the “small things” we can do that will help accomplish this work? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

Friend June 2021 “Origami Hearts” Each fold could represent a small thing that brings about something great. If each fold isn’t done what happens? Write on the heart something your family or each individual could do to bring about Heavenly Father’s work?

What does Heavenly Father want your family to do to bring about His “great work”? Maybe it’s going to the temple, sharing the gospel with a neighbor, or overcoming contention. Perhaps each family member could collect small objects, like rocks or buttons or puzzle pieces, and use them to represent “small things” we can do every day to “[lay] the foundation” for God’s great work. As a family, pick one of these small things to work on this week. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

Ask the children to complete an action that requires two objects, but give them only one (for example, writing on the chalkboard without chalk or cutting a piece of paper with no scissors). Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:34 to find out what two things the Lord asks of us. Why do we need to give both our heart and mind to the Lord? How do we do this? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

Latter Day Kids “Obedience” Lesson ideas

Friend February 2021 “For Older Kids” I know that obeying Heavenly Father is worth it because He always has a plan with good consequences in the end. I am grateful that Heavenly Father helps me do hard things. No matter how hard things get, I know I can always rely on Heavenly Father. Jayden T., age 10, New Mexico, USA (see photo)

Sing a song about loving and following the Savior, such as “I Feel My Savior’s Love” (Children’s Songbook, 74–75; especially verse 3). How do we show the Savior that we love Him? Share your feelings for Jesus Christ.

D&C 4:2 See that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.

“I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162) or

.Doctrine and Covenants 77:14.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 77-80”

This verse explains that John ate a book that represented his mission to gather Israel. What does the symbolism of eating suggest about how we should approach our role in gathering Israel or doing other things the Lord wants us to do? Here are some other scriptures in which eating is used to teach a spiritual truth: John 6:48–51; 2 Nephi 32:3; Moroni 4. Perhaps you could make a favorite family dish to eat together during this discussion.

I Can Give My Best Effort to the Lord.

Doctrine and Covenants 75:3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

Invite each child to take a turn acting out how they would do an act of service, such as cleaning a room in the church or washing dishes at home. Read Doctrine and Covenants 75:3, and ask the children to show how they would do it lazily when you say “neither be idle” and show how to work hard when you say “but labor with your might.” Why is it important that we do our best when serving the Lord?
Share with the children President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s stories about work from “Two Principles for Any Economy” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 55–58). How do we feel when we know we have done our best?
Sing a song about working together, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198). Help the children make up actions to go with the words. Or sing the song: “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243.

Friend July 2015- Parable of the Talents - includes lesson ideas — Friend July 2015– Parable of the Talents – includes lesson ideas

I Can Help “Bear the Burden” of Doing the Lord’s Work.

Exodus 18:13–26

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 18–20”Moses learned that trying to lead the children of Israel all by himself was “not good” (Exodus 18:17). Loving and serving one another can help ease the burdens of our leaders.

Invite the children to draw many circles on the board to represent members of the ward. Draw a circle labeled bishop. Why would it be a problem if the bishop were the only one helping everyone else? Read together Exodus 18:13–26 to find out what advice Jethro gave when Moses was trying to do everything himself. Ask the children to label other circles to represent other ward leaders and members who help the bishop serve others. How do these other leaders and members make the bishop’s burden lighter? How can we do the same for our ward leaders? for our parents at home?

Friend December 2019 “Notes for Sister Puckett” Tyler was excited to become a deacon so he could serve and minister like his parents do. (His father takes notes in sacrament for Sister Puckett who is sick, and his mom made taco soup for her.)

Help the children make a list of leaders in your ward. As a class, select one and discuss what this person does to accomplish the Lord’s work and what the children can do to help. (Suggestions: Primary leaders, Primary teachers, chorister, librarians)

Friend December 2018 Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

I can put away a hymnbook.
I can pick up trash I see.
I can help hold up a picture.
I can sit so reverently!

Giving Talks, Singing, Playing Instruments

Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.

“Prayer Power” (March 2019 Liahona and Friend)
Lucy and her family pray for their church leaders.

Friend April 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Bear One Another’s Burdens“

Story: It was hard for Moses to lead his people by himself. His wife’s father, Jethro, told Moses to let other people help “bear the burden” (Exodus 18:21–22).

Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)

Activity: Have one person stand and hold their arms out. Put a book in each of their hands. Add more books until they are too heavy to hold up. Then have two people hold the person’s arms up. Is it easier to carry a burden when you have help? How can you help others? How can you ask for help?

Friend May 2020 “I Will Be Valiant” Song and Sing-along Video.

The Lord needs valiant servants,

To do His work in the latter day,

Who follow the teachings of Jesus

And serve His people in a loving way.

I will be His servant

And keep my cov’nants valiantly.

I’ll stand for truth. I’ll stand for right.

The Lord can depend on me.

Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause

Latter Day Kids “Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause” Video, activities, and lesson ideas

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 58–59”

Write phrases from Doctrine and Covenants 58:27–28 on strips of paper, and hand one to each child. Invite them to read the verses silently and ponder their phrase. Invite the children to sit in the order in which their phrases appear in verses 27–28 and share with each other what they learned. What is the Lord’s message to us in these verses?

Perhaps family members could make a list of some of the things they are “anxiously engaged” in. Are all of them “good cause[s]”? Why does the Lord want us to do “many things of [our] own free will”? Ask each family member to think of what they can do this week to “bring to pass much righteousness.” Later they can report on what they did. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 58-59”)

Sing a song about choices, such as “Choose the Right” (Hymns, no. 239). Ask questions to help the children ponder the words of the song—for example, Who helps guide you to make the right choice? Who tries to get you to make the wrong choice? How does choosing the right make you feel?

Cheerfully Serving

Friend June 2022 “For Older Kids”

The Lord Will Help Me Accomplish His Will.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6 Moses worried about whether he could deliver the Israelites from Egypt. But the Lord promised that He would help Moses. Help the children gain faith that the Savior will help them too.

Tell the children about how the Lord gave Moses an important job to do. Read selected verses from Exodus 3, or read “Moses the Prophet” (in Old Testament Stories). Share how Moses felt (see Exodus 3:6, 11) and what the Lord told him (see verses 12 and 14). Invite the children to repeat with you the phrase “Certainly I will be with thee,” and share a time when the Lord was with you when you had something important to do for Him.

Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

Cut out paper hearts and write on them ways the Lord helps the children. Place the hearts facedown on the floor. Invite children to take turns choosing hearts, and help them read what is written on them.

Help the children think of situations when they might be asked to do something that seems hard. Explain that just as Jesus helped Moses, Jesus will also help them. Sing a song about how Jesus helps us, such as “I Will Walk with Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Testify that the Savior will help us when we are worried or scared.

Exodus 3–4

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6 Moses felt inadequate for his calling, but the Lord promised He would be with Moses and help him. How might this account inspire the children you teach?

Using the account in Exodus 3; 4:1–17, let the children take turns pretending to be Moses. If possible, bring props for them to use, such as a flashlight and a plant to represent the burning bush.
Ask the children to read Exodus 3:11; 4:1, 10 and find out how Moses felt about asking Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. When have they had similar feelings? What advice would the children share with Moses to help him? Help them discover how the Lord encouraged Moses (see Exodus 3:12; 4:2–9, 11–12).

Share an experience when you felt God was helping you fulfill a calling or serve Him in some way. Invite the children to share a time when the Lord helped them.

Friend November 2019 “The Primary Talk” Dennis was afraid to give a talk in Primary. He prayed, prepared, and practiced but he was still nervous, so he asked his father to give him a blessing. After the blessing he was able to give the talk with only a few stutters, and he knew Heavenly Father helped him.

Friend June 2020 ” The Only Bald Deacon” Carlos was losing his hair due to cancer, so he shaved the patchy hair off. He was anxious about people staring at him when he passed the sacrament. He and his family said a prayer together before going in to church, and he felt peaceful and ready. When he got into the chapel he found all the other deacons with shaved their heads too.

The Lord gave Moses power to perform three miracles as signs to show the children of Israel that He had sent Moses. What do these signs teach us about Jesus Christ?

Friend June 2022 “Moira’s First Talk” President Scott asked Moira to give a talk in district conference. Moira was only 12 and she was a new member of the church. She wasn’t sure if she could do it but she said she would try. She knew Heavenly Father would help her.

Friend March 2025 “Help From Heaven” When Elder Yoon Hwan Choi was called to be a Bishop it was a hard time in his life. He was a young father and the family was struggling with money. He was exhausted and it was also hard on his wife. One Sunday his wife realized that many of the problems they had faced were solved at some point during his calling. Elder Choi said that the Lord will bless us as we serve him.

My small offerings can make a difference.

John 6:5–14

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5–6” It was a young boy who provided the bread and fish that Jesus used to feed the five thousand. How can you help the children you teach see how they can contribute to the work of the Lord?

Help the children imagine how large a crowd of five thousand people would be. What would it be like to feed that many people with only five loaves of bread and two fish?

New Testament Student Manual The Greek text of Mark 6:44 makes clear that the phrase “five thousand men” meant five thousand males. Matthew 14:21 makes this unmistakable by adding the statement “beside women and children.”

Friend March 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities: More Than Enough”

Story: Once Jesus Christ spent all day teaching people. Everyone was hungry. But they only had five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus blessed the bread and fish, and the disciples shared it with the people. There was enough food for more than 5,000 people! (See Matthew 14:15–21).

Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)

Activity: Make your favorite bread recipe, or try the one on page 8. Notice how something as small as yeast makes the whole loaf of bread bigger. How has Jesus made your small efforts big?

Invite a child to tell the story of the feeding of the five thousand in his or her own words. Emphasize that it was a young boy who provided the bread and fish that the Lord used to perform this miracle. How can we be like the boy described in John 6:9? Invite the children to draw loaves and fish on paper and write on them some things they can give to the Lord to help in His work.

New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) Because of Jesus Christ your humble offerings will be enough. When we offer the Savior all that we have, He can multiply our efforts to accomplish His purposes.

Have you ever felt your talents and gifts were too small for the task ahead? I have. But you and I can give what we have to Christ, and He will multiply our efforts. What you have to offer is more than enough—even with your human frailties and weaknesses—if you rely on the grace of God.

(Michelle D. Craig, “Divine Discontent,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 54)

What are different ways we can “give what we have to Christ”?

Giving Talks, Singing, Playing Instruments, Help Clean the Church

Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.

Friend December 2018 “Ellie Helps Clean the Church” Ellie’s family goes to clean the church and she wonders how she can help. Also includes a matching activity:

Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

I can put away a hymnbook.
I can pick up trash I see.
I can help hold up a picture.
I can sit so reverently!

[unitegallery Dece2018]

Give the children a small puzzle to complete. What would happen if one of the pieces of the puzzle were missing? Explain that we are each like a puzzle piece—we are all important, and we all need each other. Help the children name reasons they are important in their families, their Primary class, God’s family, and other groups.

The Lord can use small things to do great work.

Judges CHAPTER 6

Israel is in bondage to the Midianites—An angel appears to Gideon and calls him to deliver Israel—He overthrows the altar of Baal, the Spirit of the Lord rests upon him, and the Lord gives him a sign to show he is called to deliver Israel.

Judges 6:13–16, 25–30.

Gideon showed great courage in obeying the Lord, even though his actions were not popular. What has the Lord asked us to do that others might not agree with? How can the Lord’s words to Gideon in verses 13–16 inspire us to do the right thing?(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)

Judges CHAPTER 7

Gideon’s army is reduced to 300—They frighten the Midianite armies with trumpets and lights—The Midianites fight among themselves, flee, and are defeated by Israel.

Old Testament Stories “The Army of Gideon”

Judges 6:11–16; 7:1–8

Gideon considered himself poor and insignificant, but God saw him as a “mighty man of valour” (Judges 6:12). Help the children see that even if they feel small, God can work through them to do important things (see Alma 37:6–7).

Tell the children that the Lord needed someone to help Him save Israel from their enemies, the Midianites, and He chose Gideon. Read Judges 6:15 to the children, and ask them why Gideon didn’t feel he could do what the Lord wanted. Read verse 16, and ask them who the Lord said would help Gideon. Tell the children about a time when the Lord asked you to do something difficult to serve Him and you felt He was with you.

Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

Display pictures of children or youth doing great things in the service of God (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 23, 90, 102), or tell about examples you have seen. Help the children think of ways they can participate in God’s work, and invite them to draw pictures of themselves doing these things.

Media Library, Old Testament Gospel Art Book

Ask the children to imagine that they needed to gather an army together to go to battle. How many people would they want in their army? Using Judges 7:4–7, invite the children to act out how the Lord helped Gideon choose the army that would deliver Israel from the Midianites. Why did the Lord want Gideon’s army to be so small? (see Judges 7:2). Why might following the Lord’s command have been hard for Gideon and his army? Invite the children to share experiences when they learned to trust the Lord even though doing so was hard.

Friend October 2001 “Gordon B. Hinckley Faces “Pharaoh”

Use this week’s activity page to teach the children about how the Lord made Israel’s army smaller so the Israelites would know that His power had saved them from their enemies. Share examples of small things that do a great work, such as bees gathering nectar to make honey. Bear your testimony that God can help us do a great work, even when we feel small.

Invite the children to draw pictures of a sword, shield, trumpet, lamp, and pitcher. Ask the children which of these objects they would take with them into a battle. Invite them to read Judges 7:16 to learn what Gideon’s army took with them. Why would it have taken courage to do this? Read together Judges 7:19–21 to learn how the army used the trumpets and pitchers to defeat the Midianites. What do we learn about the Lord from this story?

Could you use a role play or other creative activity to help your family learn from the experience of Gideon’s army described in this chapter? How can the Lord’s words in this chapter (see, for example, verses 2 and 15) apply to our lives?(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16”)

“Lesson 24: Gideon,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 106–9

Have the children stand while you give them instructions such as turn around, raise your right hand, and so forth. Have the children list some of the specific instructions Gideon was given (see Judges 6:25–26 and Judges 7:3–6). Explain that because Gideon followed these instructions exactly, he and his army were successful. Point out that sometimes we are asked to do things that may not seem important or even make sense to us at the time. If we are given specific directions by Church leaders or parents acting in righteousness, we need to be obedient and have faith that what we are asked to do is important and right.

Judges CHAPTER 8

Gideon pursues and destroys the Midianites—He frees the children of Israel but refuses their invitation to reign as king over them—Gideon dies, and Israel returns to idolatry.

“Be strong and of a good courage, the Lord thy God is with Thee”

Joshua 1–4; 6

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” After Joshua became the leader of the Israelites, the Lord encouraged him by saying, “Be strong and of a good courage” (Joshua 1:6). What can the children learn from Joshua about how to be strong and courageous for Christ?

Invite the children to find the phrase that is repeated in Joshua 1:6, 9, and 18, and write it on the board (see also verse 7). Help the children think of reasons we might need this message, just as Joshua did. Review as a class some of the stories in Joshua 1–4; 6 (see also “Joshua the Prophet” and “Rahab and the Spies” in Old Testament Stories), and ask the children to identify how the people in these stories showed courage and strength.

Old Testament Stories “Joshua the Prophet”

Friend May 2022 “Joshua’s Courage”

Old Testament Stories “Rahab and the Spies”

Invite the children to talk about someone they know who is strong and courageous for Jesus Christ. Encourage them to write down something they would like to do to be stronger and more courageous for Christ.

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Have Courage and Serve God” Lesson ideas

If I Have Faith, I Can Do Whatever God Needs Me to Do.

Moroni 7:33

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 7–9: “May Christ Lift Thee Up”

Children who have faith in Jesus Christ and confidence in His power can accomplish great things when they are serving Him.

Read Moroni 7:33, and invite the children to stand up when they hear the word “faith.” Explain that we show our faith in Jesus Christ when we keep His commandments. Help the children make a list on the board of some things Jesus wants them to do, like obeying their parents or telling the truth. Testify that our faith in Jesus Christ can help us keep the commandments.
Display a few pictures that show someone from the Book of Mormon (or other books of scripture) accomplishing something important because he or she had faith in Jesus Christ (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 19, 70, 78, 81). Help the children tell the story portrayed in the picture. Tell them that because these people had faith in Jesus Christ, they were given power to do what He needed them to do.

Friend May 2021 “Pioneers in Every Land: Sam Beazley” Sam had problems with his hands, but he tried to always serve and help do the work of the Lord. He had faith the Lord would help him do the work. Sam was called to serve as a Labour Missionary building a church school for teenagers. His labor also helped build the Hamilton New Zealand Temple which he later was called to serve in.

The Spirit Can Speak to Our Hearts and Help Us Know What God Would Have Us Do and Say.

Helaman 13:2–5

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Helaman 13–16: Glad Tidings of Great Joy”

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.

1 Samuel CHAPTER 10

Samuel anoints Saul to be captain over the Lord’s inheritance—Samuel manifests the gift of seership—Saul prophesies among the prophets, and the Lord gives him a new heart—He is chosen king at Mizpeh.

1 Samuel 10:6–12.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “1 Samuel 8–10; 13; 15–18” When have we seen God bless someone with spiritual power to fulfill an assignment or calling like He blessed Saul? What experiences can we share when “God gave [us] another heart” or “the Spirit of God came upon [us]” in His service? (verses 9–10).

Friend January 2021 “The Bread Loaf Prayer” Carver and his family decide to practice listening for the Holy Ghost. Carver’s mom bakes some bread and each person prays to know who to take it to. Carver thought of Sister Smith and he even listened and said the words to her that popped into his mind when he gave her the bread. He knew it was from the Holy Ghost.

God will prepare me to work in His kingdom.

Joseph Smith—History 1:48–60

Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 4: Joseph Smith Prepares to Receive the Gold Plates”

Tell the children that you would like them to help you prepare some things for the lesson. Give some of the children blank wordstrips and pens or pencils, and have them write the following words on the wordstrips: Joseph Smith, prayer, light, Moroni, message, four times. Have another child display the picture of Moroni appearing to Joseph Smith. Thank the children for helping you prepare.

Why is it important that we prepare for certain events, such as taking a test in school or giving a talk in Primary? What happens when we do not prepare? Using the wordstrips and the appropriate pictures, have the children help you review what they learned in lesson 3 about Moroni’s visits to Joseph Smith. Remind the children that Joseph was not allowed to take the plates the first time
he saw them. Explain that Joseph had a great work to do, but he needed to be better prepared in order to do it.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

Joseph was only 17 years old when he first saw the gold plates. They weren’t entrusted to his care, however, until four years later. Read Joseph Smith—History 1:48–60, looking for what happened in Joseph’s life during that time. How do you think these events prepared him for the work God called him to do? What experiences have you had that have prepared you to serve God and others? What are you currently experiencing that can help you prepare for future service?

Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 4: Joseph Smith Prepares to Receive the Gold Plates”

What have Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ given us to help us prepare to
serve them? (Answers may include scriptures, parents, prophets, teachers,
the gift of the Holy Ghost, and Primary.) Write the children’s answers to this
question under the heading Heavenly Father helps me prepare by:.

What is our responsibility to help prepare ourselves? Using the items
listed on the chalkboard, discuss with the children what each of us needs
to do with the things that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have given us
(for example: scriptures—study them daily; parents—follow their counsel).
Summarize their answers under the heading I can prepare myself by:.
What are we preparing to do? (Serve Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
and others, in positions such as teacher, missionary, or parent.) How does
this preparation help us now? How will it help us in the future? Help the
children realize their responsibility to prepare themselves now to serve (See more at lesson link.)

Jesus Christ Can Help Me Be Strong.

Ether 12:23–27

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.

Remember that previously (approximately 90 years earlier), the Persian king Cyrus had allowed many Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and establish a community there. The city, which at that time was without walls, was unsafe to live in. The people were in “great affliction” (verse 3), and the temple was in danger of being destroyed again.

I can help the work of God advance despite opposition.

Ezra CHAPTER 4

The Samaritans offer help, then hinder the work—The building of the temple and of the walls of Jerusalem ceases.

Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018)

When the 50,000 Jews returned to Jerusalem, they encountered a group of people living nearby called Samaritans. The Samaritans were the “people who lived in Samaria after the northern kingdom of Israel was captured by the Assyrians. The Samaritans were partly Israelite and partly Gentile. Their religion was a mixture of Jewish and pagan beliefs and practices” (Guide to the Scriptures, “Samaritans,” scriptures.lds.org).

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” The Lord’s work rarely goes unopposed, and this was certainly true of the efforts led by Zerubbabel and Nehemiah. In both cases, the “adversaries of Judah” (Ezra 4:1) were Samaritans—descendants of Israelites who had mixed with the Gentiles. Reading about their opposition to building the temple (see Ezra 4–6) might lead you to ponder the opposition [you may face as you stand for the right.]

. According to verses 1–2, what did the Samaritans want to do?

Stop the Jews from building the temple
Build a different kind of temple
Help the Jews build the temple

2. What did Zerubbabel and the other Jewish leaders tell the Samaritans?

The Jews would build the temple themselves.
The Jews would be happy to have the Samaritans’ help.
The Samaritans must wait until the next year to help them.

3. How did the Samaritans respond when Zerubbabel and the other Jewish leaders rejected their offer?

They went away and left the Jews alone.
They discouraged the Jews from building the temple and created opposition.
They gave the Jews supplies for the building of the temple.

As a result of the Samaritans’ opposition, the temple’s construction stopped for several years (see Ezra 4:1–24; Haggai 1:2–6).

Our spiritual progress may halt if we don’t choose the right or if we listen to the opposition and give in.

Friend February 2020 “Matt & Mandy” When some kids find a wallet, Matt and his friend stand for the right by telling a boy, who wants to keep the money, that they need to return the wallet to its owner.

Friend September 2017 “Matt and Mandy” Matt tells some boys he doesn’t want to hear a bad joke even though they call him chicken.

Ezra CHAPTER 5

Haggai and Zechariah prophesy—Zerubbabel renews the building of the temple—The Samaritans challenge the Jews’ right to continue their building work.

Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018) We read in Ezra 5:1–2 that some of the Jews began to rebuild the temple again. When local Persian-appointed governors learned that the Jews had resumed building the temple, they questioned the Jews’ authority to do so and looked for ways to stop the construction.

Read Ezra 5:5, looking for why the local governors could not stop the Jews from rebuilding the temple.

What principle can we identify from the Jews’ experience of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem?

One principle we can identify from Ezra 5:5 is that God watches over and helps us as we seek to obey Him.

Friend July 2022 “Stand for What You Believe”David stood for what he believed. He wasn’t alone. God’s power was with him. He beat Goliath. God will help us even when we face Goliath-sized challenges.

Nehemiah 2:17–20; 6:1–9

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” When Nehemiah was repairing the walls surrounding Jerusalem, his enemies tried to get him to stop, but he remained faithful to his task. What are some important things the Lord wants the children to do, and how can you inspire them to be faithful to that work?

Share with the children the story of Nehemiah (see Nehemiah 2:17–20; 6:1–9; Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “We Are Doing a Great Work and Cannot Come Down,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 59–62). Tell the children what Nehemiah said when people made fun of him for wanting to fix Jerusalem’s walls: “The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build” (Nehemiah 2:20). Invite the children to stand up and pretend to help fix the walls of Jerusalem.
Bring some blocks to class, and let the children use them to help you build a wall (or draw a wall on the board). Help the children think of some important things Heavenly Father might ask them to do, like learning how to read the scriptures. With each idea they share, invite them to add a block to the wall. Explain that when Nehemiah was doing his important work of fixing Jerusalem’s walls, people tried to stop him. Read Nehemiah 6:9, and invite the children to raise their hands when you read “strengthen my hands.” Tell the children about a time when you felt God strengthen your hands to do His work.

Nehemiah 2; 4; 6

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” The Lord has an important work for the children you teach. What can they learn from Nehemiah about persevering in that work even when they face opposition?

Review with the children the story about Nehemiah repairing the walls surrounding Jerusalem, including the opposition he faced. Read together Nehemiah 2:19, and ask the children to share situations in which someone might laugh at us for doing the right thing. According to Nehemiah 2:20, how did Nehemiah respond? How can we respond when people make fun of us or criticize us for doing the right thing?

Friend November 2018 “Finders Keepers?” Mike finds some money on the school grounds and takes it to the office even though his friends think they should keep it and spend it.

Read together Nehemiah 6:1–9. How did Nehemiah’s enemies repeatedly try to get him to stop working on the wall, and how did he respond? What work does God want us to do? (see, for example, Mosiah 18:8–10). How can we follow Nehemiah’s example in verse 9 when it’s difficult to do what God has asked us to do?

Describe how you can apply the phrase “I am doing a great work and cannot come down” (see Nehemiah 6:3) when you face opposition in doing God’s will.

Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Help Do His Work.

I can walk in the ways of God.

1 Kings CHAPTER 3

Solomon loves the Lord and keeps His commandments—The Lord appears to Solomon and promises him a wise and an understanding heart—He judges between two harlots and determines who is the mother of a child.

“Lesson 31: The Wisdom of King Solomon,” Primary 6: Old Testament Lesson includes great questions and lesson and story ideas

Attention Activity

Ask the children to name things they would ask for if they knew they could ask Heavenly Father for anything and he would give it to them. Write the children’s ideas on the chalkboard.

Show the children some waterproof items that could represent worldly goods, such as a piece of jewelry, a coin, a pretty rock, and so on. Put the items in a large pitcher or container as you talk about them and discuss how some people spend most of their efforts accumulating material goods. Then add some water to the container to represent good deeds or spiritual gifts as you discuss the kind deeds we can do and the spiritual gifts we can develop, such as helping a family member or friend, gaining a testimony, being honest, or having an understanding heart. Pour the contents of the container through a strainer into another container. Explain that the first container represents someone’s life, the strainer represents death, and the second container represents life after death. Discuss how we cannot take material goods with us when we die, but we do take with us the spiritual gifts we have developed and the good deeds we have done.

Ask the children which of the items on the chalkboard represent things that could last forever and if they would like to change anything they named before. Tell the children that they are going to learn about someone who was able to ask God for one thing, and he chose an eternal, spiritual gift instead of a temporary, earthly one.

Write knowledge, wisdom, and an understanding heart on the chalkboard. Discuss the meaning of each one. Explain that knowledge is learning gained through study or experience; wisdom is using what we have learned in the best way to make right choices; and an understanding heart enables us to know how others feel.

Have the children find the book of Proverbs in their Bibles. Explain that most of these proverbs (wise sayings) were written by Solomon, and because of his great wisdom, these sayings can help us today. (See the lesson link for a list of some of the wise sayings found in Proverbs.)

Two Women, One Baby

“Lesson 96: 1 Kings 1–10,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material

Moroni 10:8–20

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 10: “Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

Moroni described the gifts that God gives to His children when they have faith in Him.

Write the numbers 9 through 16 on separate pieces of paper, and wrap each paper like a gift. Let the children take turns unwrapping the gifts. (or put all the papers in one gift box and let the children take turns picking a paper from the box) As they do, read together verses from Moroni 10:9–16 that correspond with the numbers, and help the children identify each spiritual gift. Explain that these are gifts Heavenly Father gives His children so we can help each other and do His work.

Tell the children about spiritual gifts you have noticed that Heavenly Father has given them, such as the gifts of faith, wisdom, testimony, kindness, and the ability to learn. Let the children talk briefly about favorite gifts they have received.

Ensign December 2020 “Family Study Fun”

Use this activity to talk more about Moroni 10:18 (“every good gift cometh of Christ”).

Ahead of time, wrap a Book of Mormon with many layers of wrapping paper or colored cellophane. Tell your family you’ll share clues about what’s inside this gift.
As you share each clue (for example, “This teaches us about Jesus Christ”), invite a family member to take off a layer of paper and guess what’s inside.
If someone guesses correctly, continue unwrapping and take turns sharing truths about the Book of Mormon.

Discussion: Once the book is unwrapped, end by reading Moroni 10:18 together. What can your family do to share the gift of the gospel with others?

Ensign December 2020 “How Can I Seek Spiritual Gifts”

Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.

Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “7th Article of Faith: Spiritual Gifts” Match each picture to its spiritual gift.

Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 20: Gifts of the Spirit” Images and video

(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”) If possible, show objects or pictures that represent each gift. Pause occasionally to ask the children how these gifts could bless someone.

Write on pieces of paper some of the spiritual gifts found in Doctrine and Covenants 46:13–26 and Articles of Faith 1:7, and hide them around the room. Invite each child to find one of the papers and search the verses to find where that gift is mentioned in the scriptures. Then read together Doctrine and Covenants 46:8–9, 12. Why does Heavenly Father give us spiritual gifts?

Friend May 2021 “What Are Your Gifts?” Spiritual gifts are blessings or abilities that God has given to each of His children.

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Gifts of the Spirit”

Friend May 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Read Doctrine and Covenants 46:11. Then help your little ones fill in the blank: “I am good at …” Help them recognize their talents and spiritual gifts.

Latter Day Kids “Spiritual Gifts” Videos and lesson ideas

Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Bless Others.

Ponder what your spiritual gifts are—and how you can use them “for the benefit of the children of God” (verse 26).

Give a child something that can be shared, like a piece of bread or two toys. Ask the child to share what you have given him or her with another class member. Explain that Heavenly Father gives us gifts, and He wants us to use them to help others. Tell the children about a time when you were blessed because someone shared his or her spiritual gifts.

Help the children list on the board the gifts of the Spirit mentioned in Doctrine and Covenants 46. As each gift is listed, talk about how that gift can be used to bless others. The descriptions in “Chapter 20: Gifts of the Spirit” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 77–80) can help. Tell the children that they each have spiritual gifts. Encourage them to ask Heavenly Father to help them recognize their gifts and how they can use them to help others. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”)

Elder Robert D. Hales: “These gifts are given to those who are faithful to Christ. They will help us know and teach the truths of the gospel. They will help us bless others. They will guide us back to our Heavenly Father” (“Gifts of the Spirit,” Ensign, Feb. 2002, 16).

Ponder why it is important that you “always [remember] for what they are given” (verse 8). How can these truths help you “not be deceived”? (verse 8).

See also Gospel Topics, “Spiritual Gifts,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Doctrine and Covenants 82:18–19

18 And all this for the benefit of the church of the living God, that every man may improve upon his talent, that every man may gain other talents, yea, even an hundred fold, to be cast into the Lord’s storehouse, to become the common property of the whole church—

19 Every man seeking the interest of his neighbor, and doing all things with an eye single to the glory of God.

What can each family member do to “improve upon his [or her] talent” and “gain other talents”? It might be fun to have a family talent show. Think of ways to include talents that aren’t easily displayed (such as spiritual gifts; see Doctrine and Covenants 46:11–26). How can we use our talents and share the things we have to bless our family and neighbors? What does it mean to use our talents “with an eye single to the glory of God”? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 ” Doctrine and Covenants 81–83″)

Heavenly Father has blessed me with spiritual gifts. (Jr)

1 Corinthians 12:4, 7–12

Ask the children to draw a picture of a favorite gift they have received. Explain that Heavenly Father gives us spiritual gifts to strengthen our faith and help us bless others. Share with the children some of the spiritual gifts described in 1 Corinthians 12:7–11. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

Write a note for each child, describing a spiritual gift you have seen in him or her (or you could invite parents to write these notes). Put the notes in envelopes. Allow the children to open the envelopes, and help them read about their spiritual gifts. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” ).

Cut out cards. Give one card to each parent to fill out. The name of the child goes on the top line.

Easy, Peasy, and Fun “Printable Gift Box”

Semigloss Design “Gift Card Holder Template – Free Printable Template”

Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.

I have spiritual gifts. (Sr)

1 Corinthians 12:4, 7–12, 31; 13:1–8

Ask the children to write on the board the spiritual gifts they find in 1 Corinthians 12:7–11; 13:2. Invite them to find any additional gifts mentioned in Moroni 10:8–18 and Doctrine and Covenants 46:13–26.

See Gospel Principles “Chapter 22: The Gifts of the Spirit” for a description of the different gifts and ideas on how they could be used.

The Red Crystal has black and white copies that the children could fill out.

“Write the gifts named in Moroni 10:9-16 on strips of paper, and put them in a gift box. Write the numbers 9 through 16 on the board, and invite the children to take turns picking a paper from the box and matching it to the verse number on the board. What do we learn about these gifts from verses 8 and 17-18?”

Share with them some additional spiritual gifts mentioned by Elder Marvin J. Ashton: “The gift of asking; the gift of listening; … the gift of avoiding contention; … the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; … the gift of caring for others; … the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony” (“There Are Many Gifts,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20). Invite the children to talk about the spiritual gifts they see in each other. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

After reading these verses together, consider giving everyone a piece of paper with the name of another family member (or classmate) at the top. Ask everyone to list the spiritual gifts they notice that person has. You could then pass the papers in a circle until everyone has had a chance to write about each family member’s gifts. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8-13”

Before class, ask the parents of the children in your class about the gifts they see in their children, or think about the children’s gifts yourself. Tell the children about these gifts. Invite the children to write down one way they will use their gifts to bless someone this week. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

One truth you might recognize is that the Lord gives each member of His Church at least one spiritual gift to bless others with. New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “1 Corinthians 12”

Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.

Cut out cards. Give one card to each parent to fill out. The name of the child goes on the top line.

Could put the card in one of the below boxes or envelopes.

Easy, Peasy, and Fun “Printable Gift Box”

Semigloss Design “Gift Card Holder Template – Free Printable Template”

Share different situations in which people could use a spiritual gift from 1 Corinthians 12:7–10. Invite the children to identify the spiritual gifts that could be used in each situation. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 8–13” )

See Gospel Principles “Chapter 22: The Gifts of the Spirit” for description of the different gifts and ideas on how they would be used.

Friend December 2006 “The Gifts and Fruits of the Spirit” When a child finds one of the words have them tell how they could use that gift.

God has given me gifts to help with His work.

Exodus 36:1

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19” Young children have gifts that they can use to contribute to the Lord’s work on earth. How can you help the children feel a desire to share what the Lord has given to them?

Read Exodus 36:1 to the children, and ask them to listen for what the Lord gave to Bezaleel and Aholiab to help them build the “sanctuary” (tabernacle). Tell each child about a gift he or she has (it might help to ask their parents). Testify that God has “put” gifts into each of His children.

Friend March 2017 “What Are Your Spiritual Gifts?” This activity from the Friend can help family members learn about their own spiritual gifts.

Friend May 2021 “What Are Your Gifts?” Spiritual gifts are blessings or abilities that God has given to each of His children.

Tell the children why you want to help with the Lord’s work. Help them think of ways they can participate too (such as learning about an ancestor, telling someone about Jesus, or serving a family member). Write their ideas on slips of paper, put them in a container, and invite each child to choose one and act out the action on the slip of paper.

For additional teaching ideas see Church Service

Exodus 35:20–29; 36:1

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19”Every one of Heavenly Father’s children has something to contribute to His work. The children you teach may need your help to recognize how they can use their gifts to help in God’s work.

Display a picture of the tabernacle (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask the children what materials might have been needed in order to build the tabernacle. Read with the children Exodus 35:20–29, and ask them to look for how the needed materials were provided. Testify that each of the children has something to contribute to the work of the Lord.

Old Testament Coloring Book “The Tabernacle”

Ask the children to read Exodus 36:1 to find out what the Lord gave to those who were called to help build the tabernacle. Invite the children to share what they feel the Lord has given them to help build His kingdom (offer suggestions if needed). How can we use these things to bless others?

Exodus CHAPTER 37

Bezaleel makes the ark, the mercy seat, and the cherubims—He makes the table, the vessels, the candlestick, the incense altar, the holy anointing oil, and the sweet incense.

Exodus CHAPTER 38

Bezaleel and others make the altar of burnt offerings and all things pertaining to the tabernacle—Offerings are made by 603,550 men.

Ways to Serve

Friend June 2024 “I Can Serve at Church”

Friend April 2025 “For Older Kids” Each friend has something that can help someone else! Can you match them all?

Keeping Church Clean

Friend December 2018 “Ellie Helps Clean the Church” Ellie’s family goes to clean the church and she wonders how she can help. Also includes a matching activity:

Match each sentence with a picture. In the blank spot, draw yourself helping at church.

I can put away a hymnbook.
I can pick up trash I see.
I can help hold up a picture.
I can sit so reverently!

[unitegallery Dece2018]

Keeping Church Grounds Beautiful

Friend July 2021 “Tomoshi’s Favorite Job” Tomoshi and his mother water the flowers at the church building twice a week. They ride their bike there and see lots of wonderful things on the way. He is glad he gets to serve Heavenly Father by helping water the flowers.

Passing Sacrament

Friend November 2020 “Help Passing the Sacrament” Brayden was almost old enough to pass the sacrament, but he didn’t know how he was going to do it because he used a walker to help him walk. But then the other deacons volunteered to take turns pushing him in his transport chair so he could carry a tray. He was glad to be part of such a great deacons quorum!

Ministering

Family History Service

Friend August 2021 “Meet Porter from Poland” Porter likes to help out at home and school. Porter also helps out by participating in the BillionGraves project. He and his family take photos of headstones at a cemetery and then upload them so people can find information on their Polish ancestors.

Singing

Friend June 2018 “A Baptism Song” Elizabeth and her sister sang at a baptism which helped those attending to feel the Spirit.

Playing Piano or Other Instruments

Friend March 2020 “Ludovic’s Piano” Ludovic learns to play hymns by ear and plays for his branch during sacrament meeting.

Friend March 2016 “A True pearl” Jetta must go away from home to learn the piano, but when she returns she uses her talent to serve.

Leading Music

Friend April 2023 “Leading Like Jesus” Julie was asked to conduct the hymns in sacrament meeting, and she was very anxious. After talking to her father about her fears, she thought about how being a conductor is like Jesus Christ because he is our leader and he guides us in the right way and at the right time. She then became excited to conduct because she would represent Christ.

Giving Talks

Friend May 2018 “Spirit of Eliza” Eliza loved family history. But could she talk about it in front of everyone at church?

Serve in Temples

Friend May 2021 “Conference Notes”

Missions and Volunteer Work

Friend June 2021 “Ana Cumandá Rivera” Ana taught her companion how to read while on her mission. After her mission, Ana wanted to continue to serve. She was invited to teach others how to read.

Friend April 2023 “Reaching for Mars” Michelle went to college to be an engineer. After college she got a job helping launch rockets to explore space! She helped create a robot called a rover to send to Mars. But then she and her husband were called to serve a mission leaders. She would have to leave her job and miss the launch of the Mars rover! But she knew serving the Lord was more important, so they accepted the calling. She bore her testimony that Jesus Christ created worlds without end, and he wants us to learn, grow, and use our talents for good.

Serving at Bishop’s Storehouse

Friend June 2024 “Serving at the Storehouse” Dominic and his mother help fill an order at the Bishop’s Storehouse. His mother explains that when we pay a fast offering the money helps buy food for those that need help. That is a way all the members of the Church help each other, so none go hungry.

Callings

Those who serve in the Church are called by God.

1 Samuel CHAPTER 9

Saul, the son of Kish, a Benjamite, is a choice and goodly person—He is sent to seek his father’s asses—The Lord reveals to Samuel the seer that Saul is to be king—Saul goes to Samuel and is entertained by him.).

1 Samuel 8:6; 9:15–17; 10:1–24; 16:1–13

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “1 Samuel 8–10; 13; 15–18” The accounts of God choosing Saul and David to be kings can help your class understand how people are called to serve in the Church today. These accounts can build faith that callings come from God through His authorized servants.

On separate strips of paper, write the following statements and scriptures: the people wanted a king (1 Samuel 8:6); the Lord told Samuel that Saul would be king (1 Samuel 9:15–17); Samuel anointed Saul (1 Samuel 10:1); Samuel presented Saul to the people (1 Samuel 10:24). Ask the children to read the scripture passages and put them in the correct order.
Learn together the fifth article of faith. Briefly tell the children how you received your calling to teach in Primary. How do you know that you were called of God? Testify that God inspires leaders to call people to serve.

“Article of Faith 5” (May 2011 Friend) Number pictures relating to how a person receives a calling in the right order.

What is common consent?

Doctrine and Covenants 26:2

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021″Doctrine and Covenants 23–26″ and Liahona March 2021 “What does “common consent” mean in the Church?”

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.

Releases

Friend April 2018 “Bugs for Brother Baugh” Lizbethis upset when she hears that Brother Baugh is being released from the Bishopric, but she learns that Brother Baugh will still be at church and still love her. He will also still want to see her bug pictures that she draws for him.

Friend May 2018 “What’s on Your Mind” Ways to help with Heavenly Father’s work and make a difference in the world even when we are young.

Youth Callings

Family History

Friend February 2023 “Marco’s New Calling” Marco had just moved from Primary to Young Men’s and the bishop extended a calling to him to serve as a family history consultant. He received some training and then worked on his own family history and got some names prepared to take to the temple for baptisms, including a much loved aunt who had died. He was excited to help others with their family history. He shared his testimony of family history at a Church activity, and he invited other youth in their ward to come with his family on their temple trip.

Song Ideas

Friend May 2020 “I Will Be Valiant” Song and Sing-along Video.

The Lord needs valiant servants,

To do His work in the latter day,

Who follow the teachings of Jesus

And serve His people in a loving way.

I will be His servant

And keep my cov’nants valiantly.

I’ll stand for truth. I’ll stand for right.

The Lord can depend on me.

Jan 12 2021

Family Love & Service

Posted on January 12, 2021 by Camilla

Ruth

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ruth; 1 Samuel 1–3” When Ruth’s husband died, she could have stayed in her home country, but she chose to go with her widowed mother-in-law, Naomi, and care for her. Consider how Ruth’s Christlike example could inspire the children you teach to be kind to those around them.

Invite the children to represent Naomi, Ruth, Boaz, or other characters as you tell their story from the book of Ruth (see also “Ruth and Naomi” in Old Testament Stories). Invite the children to raise their hands every time they hear an act of kindness in the story. How do we feel when people are kind to us? How do we feel when we are kind to others?

Old Testament Stories “Ruth and Naomi”

Friend June 2022 “Ruth and Naomi”

Latter Day Kids “Showing Kindness to Others” Lesson ideas

For the Strength of Youth June 2022 “Fearless Together”

Sing together a song about being kind, such as “Kindness Begins with Me” (Children’s Songbook, 145). Help the children think of ways they can be kind to their family and friends. If they need help, show them pictures of people showing kindness. For every idea mentioned, let the children draw a heart on the board.

Liahona June 2022 “We Follow Jesus Christ and His Prophet”

Family Support Game

Ruth 1–4

After Ruth became a widow, she chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, instead of returning to her people, “for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God” (Ruth 1:16).

Ruth supported Naomi by staying with her. Try this activity to learn about supporting family:

Choose a family member and stand back-to-back. Place any object (a small ball or a book) between each other’s backs.
Working as a team, see how many steps you can take together without letting the object fall.
Take turns as a family until everyone has had a chance to work as a team to help each other.

Discussion: How did Ruth and Naomi help each other? Ruth believed in Heavenly Father and had faith, so she stayed with Naomi. How was she blessed? How can we support each other and trust the Lord when we have difficulties?

Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Grains of Service

Story: Read about Ruth in the scripture story on page 8. She worked hard and gathered grain to take care of her husband’s mother. God blessed her for serving others.

Song: “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198)

Activity: Cut out pieces of paper in the shape of grain kernels. Use a stick or long piece of paper as a stem. Glue or tape your kernels to the stem to make a stalk of grain. Whenever you serve someone, pull off a kernel. Keep going until the stem is bare!

Old Testament Coloring Book “Ruth and Naomi”

Lesson 26: Ruth and Naomi,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 114–16
To help the children have the desire to follow the example of righteous people and to be good examples themselves.

Friend July 2018 “Ruth was a Loyal Friend” Link includes story and goal card ideas to learn how to be a good friend like Ruth.

Friend April 2015 “April’s New Wheelchair” April’s brother helps her see that she can learn to get around in her wheelchair.

Friend April 2015 “Cheering Up Grandpa” After Mike’s grandmother dies, his grandpa becomes very sad, even when gardening. Mike nominates his grandpa for Gardener of the Year hoping to help his grandpa feel better.

Giving Time to Those We Love

Friend April 1988 “Hero Sister” Cassie takes her sister to the bus stop and stays with her until the buss arrives, even though she needs to get to school to finish some homework. While waiting, Cassie saves her sister from a runaway car.

Service Helps Us Be Happy

Friend June 2016 Two sisters throw a bedroom sleepover party for their younger sister because she feels left out.

Friend April 2016 “Off to Chicago” Alex is sad his brother will be gone for 3 days, but he makes a gift to help his brother not be lonely and that makes Alex feel better.

Friend April 2016 “Love Spoken” Cassie makes a recording of her mother’s favorite story for her mom to listen to while she’s sick. She learned this from her mom.

Friend January 2016 “The Cleanup Crew” Skit about children thinking of a way to help their mother.

Friend October 2015 “The Doll in the Green Dress” – Girl sacrifices what she wants when she chooses a doll, out of love for her sister.

Friend January 2016 Even though it is embarrassing at times, a boy helps his mother by translating for her because he loves and appreciates her,

Friend May 2016 “A Buggy for Mom” Joseph uses all the money he had earned selling newspapers to buy a baby buggy for his mom.

Friend September 2015

Friend Jan 2015 “Mommy’s Flower Garden

Friend November 1986 “Something Special” Lara’s mother has time to do something with Lara because Lara has helped so much.

Friend May 2022 “For Little Friends” Ava is picking flowers to give to her grandma. How many flowers can you count?

Friend May 2022 “Juwan’s Funny Faces” Juwan helps his mom while they shop by making funny faces so his tired little sister won’t cry.

Friend August 2022 “The Cleaning Mission” Millie’s aunt is in the hospital and Millie wants to help her, so she and her mom go to her aunt’s home and clean.

Jan 2 2021

D&C Come Follow Me 2021

Posted on January 2, 2021 by Camilla

The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Restoration Proclamation

Section 1

Reading Chart

An Overview of the Doctrine and Covenants: How it Came to Be and What it Contains

Topics from Doctrine Covenants 1:1-38

Joseph Smith History 1:1-26

Joseph Smith’s Childhood

The First Vision

Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65

The Angel Moroni Appears to Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith Learns about the Gold Plates

Elijah and the Sealing Keys

Doctrine and Covenants 3–5

Joseph Begins to Translate the Gold Plates

Martin Harris and the Lost 116 Pages

Doctrine and Covenants 6-9

Oliver Cowdery and Joseph work on Translation

Oliver Cowdery Tries to Translate

Doctrine and Covenants 10-11

Joseph and Oliver wonder if they should Retranslate the Lost 116 Pages

Hyrum Smith asks Joseph to Seek the Lord’s Will on His Behalf

Doctrine & Covenants 12-13 and Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75

Joseph Knight wanted to know how he could help in the work of the Lord. The Lord’s answer is D&C 12.

John the Baptist restores the Aaronic Priesthood.

Joseph and Oliver are Baptized

Doctrine and Covenants 14-17

The Whitmer Family: Miracle of the Plowed Field, Joseph and Oliver Stays with them while Translating, and a Revelation for the Whitmer Family

The Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses

Doctrine and Covenants 18-19

Printing of the Book of Mormon

Doctrine and Covenants 20-22

Restoration of the Church

Doctrine and Covenants 23-26

People disrupt baptisms and break dam and make trouble for the church and Joseph

Revelation for Emma, including selecting hymns for the saints to sing

Doctrine and Covenants 27-28

An angel tells Joseph not to buy wine from their enemies for the sacrament.

Hiram Page claims to receive revelations for the church

Oliver Cowdery’s mission to the Lamanites

Doctrine and Covenants 29

The Gathering of God’s People and Second Coming Revelation

Doctrine and Covenants: Easter

Some scriptures in the D&C about the death, resurrection, and atonement of Jesus Christ

Doctrine and Covenants 30-36

First Missionaries

Doctrine and Covenants 37-40

The Saints are Commanded to Gather to Kirtland, Ohio

James Covel covenants to obey the commandments but doesn’t keep his promise.

Doctrine and Covenants 41-44

Early Days in Kirtland

The First Bishop: Edward Partridge

Law of Consecration

Doctrine and Covenants 45

Revelation about Second Coming

Doctrine and Covenants 46-48

Gifts of the Spirit

Church Historian Called

Doctrine and Covenants 49-50

Leman Copley and the Shakers

False Spirits Manifest in Strange Behavior

Doctrine and Covenants 51-57

Leman Copley breaks his covenant to allow the Coleman saints to settle on his land

Doctrine and Covenants 58-59

Saints begin to settle in Missouri, including the Coleman saints

Doctrine and Covenants 60-62

Joseph and the missionaries travel to and from Missouri.

The Missouri River is dangerous traveling on.

Doctrine and Covenants 63

Ezra Booth converted by a healing and then falls away from church.

Preparations to move to Zion

Warnings to dissenters

Doctrine and Covenants 64-66

Building Zion Difficulties

William E. McLellin receives answers to his questions through a revelation

Doctrine and Covenants 67-70

The Latter-day Revelations Are Published (the Doctrine of Covenants)

Doctrine and Covenants 71-75

Ezra Booth publishes letters trying to discredit the church. Joseph and Sydney go on a mission to teach the truth.

Newel K. Whitney is called to serve as bishop in Kirtland.

Joseph Smith is commanded by the Lord to work on inspired revisions to the Bible.

Doctrine and Covenants 76

Vision of the Three Degrees of Glory

Doctrine and Covenants 77-80

Joseph receives answers to questions about the Book of Revelations

Organizing the United Firm (United Order)

Doctrine and Covenants 81-83

Frederick G. Williams called to be a counselor to the Prophet Joseph Smith

Instructions reiterated to establish a firm—known as the United Firm

Doctrine and Covenants 84

Revelation about the Priesthood

Doctrine and Covenants 85-87

85 Letter to William W. Phelps about those who had not obeyed commandment to consecrate their properties

86 Revelation about the meaning of the Second Coming wheat and tares parable.

87 Civil War Prophecy

Doctrine and Covenants 88

School of the Prophets

The Lord wants the Saints to build a temple, a “house of God.”

Doctrine and Covenants 89-92

Word of Wisdom

Establishment of First Presidency

Revelation about Apocrypha

Doctrine and Covenants 93

Revelation about Jesus Christ and Premortal Life

Doctrine and Covenants 94-97

The Saints are Commanded to Build the Kirtland Temple

Doctrine and Covenants 98-101

The Saints Are Expelled from Jackson County, Missouri

Doctrine and Covenants 102-105

Zion’s Camp

Doctrine and Covenants 106-108

Priesthood Organization

Doctrine and Covenants 109-110

Dedication of the Kirtland Temple

Jesus Christ, Moses, Elias, and Elijah appear to Joseph and Oliver in Kirtland Temple

Doctrine and Covenants 11-114

Financial difficulties and apostasy in the church

Doctrine and Covenants 115-120

Name of the Church

Tithing

Adam-ondi-Ahman

Doctrine and Covenants 121-123

More Mobs in Missouri

Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail

The Saints leave Missouri

Doctrine and Covenants 124

Nauvoo

Saints Commanded to Build the Nauvoo Temple

Doctrine and Covenants 125-128

Baptisms for the Dead

Doctrine and Covenants 129-132

Revelation about Eternal Marriage

Doctrine and Covenants 133-134

Appendix to Book of Commandments

Doctrine and Covenants 135-136

Martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith

Brigham Young is the new leader of the church

The Saints leave Nauvoo and establish Winter Quarters.

Doctrine and Covenants 137-138

Joseph Smith’s vision of brother Alvin in Celestial Kingdom.

Salvation for the dead

Joseph F. Smith’s vision about the Spirit World

The Articles of Faith and Official Declarations 1 and 2

Articles of Faith

End of the practice of plural marriage

Blessings of the priesthood made available to people of all races.

The Family: A Proclamation to the World

Christmas: The Living Christ

Dec 30 2020

Primary

Posted on December 30, 2020 by Camilla

Graduation from Nursery to Sunbeams
New Year Class Changes
Graduation from Primary
How the Primary came to Be
Talks in Primary
Opening Exercises
Singing Time
Activation
- Birthday Visits
Primary Handouts
Bulletin Board and Primary Room Displays
Primary Activity Ideas
Bringing Scriptures to Primary
Primary Teachers
Primary Sacrament Program

Friend December 2024 “Primary Power” Elder James W. McConkie III Of the Seventy and his wife served as mission leaders in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. He loved going to Primaries in the area. He learned three things about Primary children. First, he learned that they can feel and recognize the Holy Ghost. Second, he learned that they want to learn about spiritual things. Third, he learned that Heavenly Father is aware of them. He wants them to have spiritual experiences. Primary is a special place where they can learn about the gospel and feel the Holy Ghost. (See more at link)

Graduation from Nursery to Sunbeams

Friend January 2017 “For Parents of Little Ones” Ideas on how to help a child prepare to go to Sunbeams.

Friend January 2016 “It’s Primary Time” Preparing nursery children for Primary and Sunbeams

Friend December 2019 “For Parents of Little Ones” Ideas on how to help children from nursery transition to Primary.

Friend December 2019 “A New Sunbeam”

New Year Class Changes

Friend December 2022 “The New Teacher” Anna likes her Sunbeam class and is nervous to go to a new class at the beginning of the new year. But her new teacher is very welcoming and the same kids from her Sunbeam class are in her new class.

Graduation from Primary

Friend December 2020 “What’s on Your Mind?” A child is nervous about graduating from Primary and doesn’t know what to expect.

Friend November 2020 “What’s on Your Mind?” A child is nervous about leaving Primary because everyone in Young Women and Young Men is older and more experienced. The Friend magazine and some other kids give some advice to the preteen.

Friend September 2018 “Friends by Mail” Robyn’s friends had all gone into Young Women and she didnt have any friends in Primary with her. It made her feel kind of sad and lonely. She found a maze in the Friend magazine about emotions like confusion and being afraid, with scriptures in the middle of each. After she looked up the scriptures and prayed, she felt peace and love from Heavenly Father.

Friend November 2024 “Too Big for Primary?” Gift was tired of Primary. She was older, taller, and bigger than all the other kids. Her friends at church were all in Young Women now. She asked the bishop if she could go to YW’s early, but she coudn’t. He pointed out that she probably makes a big difference for the younger children. The next week she helped teach a song in Primary. Afterwards one of the little girls said, “I want to be like you when I get big.” She realized maybe she could still learn and do good things in Primary.

Friend October 2017 “Finding Lydia” Lydia isn’t excited to be graduating from Primary and going to Young Women’s, but she becomes more excited when her mother finds some family names for her to do baptisms for in the temple, and one is named Lydia.

Friend November 2015 “Young Women Strong!” Maya learns about Young Womens and how it adds spiritual strength.

Friend May 2019 “Feed Your Spirit” President Nelson is happy when he sees 11 year olds that graduate from Primary doing good things in the gospel like passing the sacrament and going to the temple. He is thrilled when children of all ages feed their spirits by feasting on the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Friend January 2019 “Show and Tell” I am the oldest kid in Primary, and everyone looks up to me, so I act reverent. Nicholas F., age 11, Idaho, USA

Friend November 2022 “A Chat with Xiomara about Being New in Young Women” Xiomara tells of her experience of going from Primary to Young Women’s.

Friend March 2023 “Just Lillian” Lillian was excited to go into Young Women’s, but then she learned she would be the only one in there, her and the teachers. She prayed for help, and her prayers were answered when her mom said that her young women’s leader was her best friend. Maybe that would happen for her too. And then a new girl moved into the ward too.

Friend November 2023 “Ready, Set, Go!” Here are some things you can do to help you get ready for Young Women or Young Men. Can you get four in a row?

Moving On to Young Men and Young Women? Here are some things to get excited about! A new magazine: For the Strength of Youth. Also, a guide for making choices. (Also temple baptisms)

Friend November 2023 “We’ll Do This Together” Annie was nervous about starting Young Women’s. It wasn’t easy for her to make new friends and talk to people. Her sister suggested she look for others to help that might be nervous too. So she did and it helped her feel better.

Friend November 2023 “Akoni Prepares for the Temple”

How the Primary came to Be

Friend August 1986 “Primary Makes Me Happy” A play about how the Primary came to be.

Primary children in stake had a Friend reading challenge. Together they read 2,920 Friend stories! They put a box full of Friend magazines to read at each Church building in the stake. Each child had a punch card to keep track of how many stories they read or listened to. They even had a stake activity using ideas and recipes from the Friend.

Talks in Primary

Friend August 2023 “Jayden’s Talk” Jayden prepares his talk himself but he is nervous. He says a prayer and Heavenly Father helps him.

Friend September 1986 Sister Grassli gave a talk in Primary when she was eight years old. She talked about pre-earth life and how Jesus Christ and Satan presented their plans and about how Christ’s plan was chosen. Satan got mad and said, ‘I’ll get them!’ She thought at the time, “Well, he’s not going to get me!” She remembered that decision and determination all her life. Primary talks helps us learn and grow spiritually stronger.

Friend July 1986 Game: Children practice teaching and giving talks.

Friend February 2015 “Juliana Gives a Talk” Juliana is scared to give a talk, but Heavenly Father helps her.

Friend November 1985 – “Louis’s Talk” – A boy prepares his first talk.

Opening Exercises

Friend June 2020 “Friends by Mail” For our 2019 Kindness Garden, we adopted a “Primary grandma” each month. We sang their favorite Primary songs and listened to their testimonies. They even helped us sing in our Primary program! Garden Park 7th Ward, Utah, USA

Singing Time

Activation

Birthday Visits

Friend September 2019 “Friends by Mail” My mother is the Primary president, and sometimes I go with her to visit kids who haven’t been to Primary in a while. We say hi to them, or visit them on their birthday. We take the Friend with us as a gift for them. Levi C., age 9, California, USA

Primary Handouts

Friend August 2018 A wristband to cut out and wear that says “Primary is Awesome.”

Bulletin Board and Primary Room Displays

Friend January 2021 “Show and Tell” This Primary in Texas, USA, created a bulletin board of Christ appearing, with everyone in Primary standing around Him. It helps everyone feel closer to Him.

Friend June 2018 “Show and Tell” Primary children in this ward look for their photo holding to the iron rod whenever they are in the Primary room.

Primary Activity Ideas

Friend March 2024 “Following Jesus Together”

Friend June 2023 “Baking Bread for the Sacrament”

Friend March 2021 “Find It” The Primary invited the elderly in their branch to a game day activity. Find the hidden objects.

Friend January 2021 “Find It” These Primary children in Germany had a family history day! Find 5 old photos and 10 pairs of scissors. Then find the other hidden objects.

Friend June 2019 “Friends by Mail” Activity day girls in Florida, USA, created a tropical kindness garden! It hangs in the Primary room for other children to add their kind deeds. (includes photo)

Friend October 2018“The Parleys Creek Branch Primary, Utah, USA, went to the open house for the Jordan River Utah Temple.”

Friend December 1980 – making a piñata. See Internet for pictures and ideas

Friend March 2016 Primary children in a stake had a Friend reading challenge. Together they read 2,920 Friend stories! They put a box full of Friend magazines to read at each Church building in the stake. Each child had a punch card to keep track of how many stories they read or listened to. They even had a stake activity using ideas and recipes from the Friend.

Friend June 2015

Friend May 2016

Friend August 2023 “The Family Story Activity” The children in Lorrain’s primary were learning about their family history so they could share the stories at a Primary activity. Lorrain learned about being named after her great grandmother and about her father traveling to the temple to be sealed to his family when he was six. Before the Primary activity they heard some exciting news. A temple would be built in on their island!

Friend January 2022 “Story Time” These children are listening to a scripture story. Can you find these shapes in the picture?

Bringing Scriptures to Primary

Friend October 2017 “Show and Tell” Primary children in the Cobblestone 2nd Ward Primary, Utah, USA, earned blocks by bringing their scriptures to church and by reading about Jesus and choosing the right. They built 12 different Book of Mormon scenes and had fun growing their testimonies of the scriptures! (Leaders could build with the blocks during the week and show the children what was built with their blocks. It would be fun for the kids to see what scene it will be. They could even guess.)

Friend June 2016 Primary children of the Sarasota Ward, Sarasota Florida Stake, earned blocks to build the Nauvoo Temple by coming to Primary, bringing their scriptures, and learning the Articles of Faith. They learned that families are forever!

Friend May 2016 Primary children in the Virden Ward, Duncan Arizona Stake, New Mexico, USA, fill jars of pennies to buy copies of the Book of Mormon for the missionaries. Every Sunday, children who bring their scriptures get to put a penny into a jar. When it is filled, they put a child’s testimony in each Book of Mormon to share.

Primary Teachers

Friend July 2020 “The Secret Ingredient” Sister Franco’s primary teacher when she was young always brought chocolate cake for her class. Sister Franco didn’t like chocolate cake but one day she tried it because her primary teacher said it was made with a special ingredient. Later, Sister Franco found out that her teacher used her bus money to make the cakes, and had to walk 2 miles to church. The secret ingredient was love.

Primary Sacrament Program

Friend April 2022 “A Part to Play” The kids in Capri’s Primary class each got a part to say in the Primary program, but Capri has disability that makes it hard to speak. Her teacher gave her a special music box to play in the program that plays “I Am a Child of God.” Capri felt something warm in her heart. She knew she was a child of God. And she had an important part to play.

Friend October 2024 “Just Right for Zack” Zack has sensory processing disorder, so he likes to do the same things every day. One day at church, all the kids practiced for the Primary program in the chapel. This was very different! Nothing helped him feel better so the leaders gave him a special job for the program. It was just right for him.

Friend November 2020 “The Great Big One-Girl Primary Program” Bella is the only child in primary in her small branch. She and her mom (who is the Primary president) work on ways to do a program with just one child, and other people pitch in and help too.

Friend May 2023 “Cameron the Piano Player” Cameron volunteered to play a couple of songs in the Primary Program even though he didn’t know how to play. He took lessons and practiced really hard and did great at the program and wanted to learn more songs. He felt like it was a way to share his testimony.

Friend November 2015 – Mandy wants to be a good example for the younger children in the Primary program.

Friend August 2015 “Clara and the Primary Program” New member, Clara, is asked to read and bear testimony in the Primary program.

Friend October 2022 “Being Brave” Brayden was scared to talk in front of so many people for the Primary program. His father suggested saying a prayer to help him fell brave. It helped him feel better and he was able to say his part and remember all the words.

Friend October 2023 “Find It!” These Primary children are singing in their sacrament meeting program. Can you find the hidden objects?

Dec 24 2020

Christmas: Skits

Posted on December 24, 2020 by Camilla

Friend December 2023 “Playing Our Part”

Friend December 2023 “Nativity Costumes”

Friend December 2018 “A Christmas Play” Christmas gifts of kindness honor our Savior.

Friend December 1985 “The Christmas Story from the Book of Mormon”

Dec 19 2020

Christmas: Activities & Games

Posted on December 19, 2020 by Camilla

Focusing on Jesus
Nativity
Symbolism of Christmas Decorations
- Star
Christmas Crafts
Christmas Service
Christmas Giving
- To Neighbors
Just for Fun

Focusing on Jesus

Friend December 2021 “For Little Friends”

Friend December 2020 “What’s on Your Mind?” A child asks the Friend the following: “I love getting presents at Christmastime. But how can I focus more on Jesus Christ?” Serving others and learning more about Jesus can help you feel the real joy of Christmas! The game below has lots of ideas.

Friend December 2024 “The Prince of Peace” President Dallin H. Oaks “At this Christmas season, the world celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the “Prince of Peace” (see more at link) Sharing the Savior’s Peace: You can share the love and peace of Jesus Christ! For 12 days leading up to Christmas, choose an activity to do with your family. Then color in an ornament.

Nativity

For the Strength of Youth December 2022 “Fun Stop” Color by number. Color this drawing based on the number key below.

Friend December 2022 “Christmas Workshop” Make a nativity with paper plates

Symbolism of Christmas Decorations

Star

Friend December 2018 “Funstuff” Word Search: A bright new star announced the birth of Jesus Christ. And other stars shone down on Bethlehem too. See if you can find all the words about these heavenly lights.

Friend December 2022 “Christmas Workshop” Mini origami stars

Christmas Crafts

Friend December 2022 “Christmas Workshop” Make paper plate nativity, Origami Stars, and Guatemalan cookies

Christmas Service

Friend December 2019 “Find It” These friends are collecting toys to give to others so that they can have an even happier Christmas. Can you find the hidden objects?

Friend December 2017 “Find It!”

Christmas Giving

To Neighbors

Friend December 2023 “Christmas Delivery” The Savior told us to love our neighbors as ourselves (see Matthew 22:39). Miles wants to take Christmas cards to his neighbors to show he cares about them. Use the clues to help him remember who lives where.

Just for Fun

Friend December 2016 “Funstuff: Puzzle Page”. Stockings could be used for a matching activity in teaching a song or concept. Copy and paste into word document to adjust size.

Service

December 2024 For the Strength of Youth “Fun Stop” Fix the Ornament Mix-Up: Around the world, many people celebrate the Savior’s birth by decorating Christmas trees. Can you tell which three ornaments are not like the others?

Dec 17 2020

Charity/ Love: Stories

Posted on December 17, 2020 by Camilla

Love Helps Strengthen Us

Friend January 2022 “Not So Lonely” Damián takes the bus to his grandparents house every Saturday so he can go to church with them on Sunday. It’s lonely going alone and wishes the rest of his family would come with him. Then Damian remembers all the people who love him including his family and Heavenly Father and Jesus, and that helps him not feel so lonely.

Friend April 2022 “Somebody Loves You” When Sister Susan H. Porter, First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, was on her way to a new job, she started worrying that she wasn’t good enough. Then she had a clear feeling to try her best and remember that even if it doesn’t go well, there’s somebody who loves her.

Love Your Enemies

Friend December 2020 “A Gift of Friendship” Hermann was forced to fight with the Germans in World War 2. He was captured and put in a British POW camp. President Camm from the branch came to visit him when he heard he was a member. He and Hermann taught other prisoners of war the gospel and they were allowed to go to church. Hermann was nervous that the members would see him as their enemy. At first they were nervous around him but soon grew to trust him. Hermann carved toys for the children to thank the members for being so kind to him.

Friend January 2019 “Something Nice for Mean Mr. Gates” Michael wants to be like Jesus and love his grumpy neighbor Mr. Gates, so he makes him cookies even though everyone tries to persuade him not to. When Michael delivers the cookies, Mr. Gates smiles for the first time Michael had ever seen.

Friend January 2018 “A Friend for Mr. Maurice” Carter’s neighbor, Mr. Maurice, seems mean. Carter’s father tells him that Jesus taught that we are to love everyone. Carter tries to be kind and help Mr. Maurice and finds out Mr. Maurice is easier to love than expected.

Friend November 2017 “The Vegetable Thief” Earl is upset when he sees a lady taking vegetables from their garden, but he learns what charity means when his mother has him give the lady their best vegetables for her starving family.

Friend June 2017 “An Extra Dose of Love” Ashley’s mom likes to get to church early to look for people who need an extra dose of love. She sends those people cards. Ashley thinks of a friend who might need a card.

Friend January 2016 “Show the Love in your Heart” Lesson ideas about showing love for others.

Charity is the Pure Love of Christ.

We include others when we have charity in our hearts..

Friend June 1988 “Losers Win” Kristen asks a boy who has a prosthetic leg and isnt participating to be her partner in the three legged race, and they both have fun even though they don’t win.

Friend October 2016 “A New Picture for May” In Primary class May is sad because she doesn’t know how her family shows love for each other, but her friend adds May’s picture to her family chain with Jesus. May knows Jesus loves her and her friend loves her. (We are all brothers and sisters and Jesus is our elder brother.)

Valentine’s

Friend February 1986 “A Valentine for Carla” Lucy is reluctant to give a Valentine card to a girl who bully’s others, but Lucy makes the card which makes the girl happy.

Love Your Enemies

Friend February 1986 “Secret Formula” Aaron learns that the formula for getting rid of an enemy is love.

Dec 17 2020

Christmas Around the World

Posted on December 17, 2020 by Camilla

Christmas Around the World
- Finland
- Latin America
- Columbia
- Mexico
- Mali
- Guatemala
- Venezuela
- Multiple Countries
Christmas Foods Around the World

Christmas Around the World

Friend December 2024 “Primary Power”

Finland

Friend December 2022 “Hi Friends” I like visiting the cemetery on Christmas Eve. We light candles on the graves of family and friends. Aasa L., age 3, Northern Savonia, Finland

Friend December 2024 “Christmas Eve Candles” Every year on Christmas Eve, people in Finland visited the cemetery to light candles on the graves of their loved ones. Joska’s family discussed why they light candles on Christmas Eve on graves. Joska thought it was because Jesus is the light of the world. His mother agreed and said, “It’s because of Jesus Christ that we can be with our family forever. And because He lived again, all of us will live again too.”

Latin America

Friends December 2022 “Find It” In many parts of Latin America, people set up Nativity scenes but leave the manger empty. They add the baby Jesus on Christmas Eve. It helps them remember His birth! Can you find the hidden objects?

Columbia

Friend December 2019 “Family Night Fun” Columbia Christmas mosaic gelatin treat.

Mexico

Friend December 2021 “The Piñata Surprise” Alan’s whole family is at Abuela and Abuelo’s (Grandma and Grandpa’s) house for Nochebuena (Christmas Eve)!

Mali

Friend December 2021 “Christmas in Mali” Judith and her siblings were going to their branch’s Christmas party. Not many people in Mali celebrated Christmas. In this part of Africa, most people didn’t know much about Jesus. To them, Christmas was just an ordinary day of work and play.

Guatemala

Friend December 2022 “Cookies, Hugs, and Love” Because of a hurricane and Covid, Eva’s family Christmas traditions of celebrating with family, friends, and neighbors was not possible. Eva was sad. Their family decided to buy food for people who lost their homes in the hurricane and Eva wanted to make cookies for the children in the shelter. Serving others helped her feel better.

Friend December 2022 “Christmas Workshop”

Venezuela

Friend December 2024 “Tying Hallacas” Ivette’s family gathering together to make hallacas, a Venezuelan holiday food. This year, Abuela had promised Ivette that she could help make them. When she found out that her job was to put her finger on the string to help finish the knot, she was disappointed and didn’t think her job was needed. Her Abuela said, “We all play a special part in making hallacas—just like we all play a special part in Heavenly Father’s family.”“We are all needed in this family,” Mom added. “It’s how we stay strong.” As she looked around at her family she realized that everyone was different. Her aunt told the best jokes. Her mom gave amazing hugs. And Abuela always knew what to say to make things better. Heavenly Father had given them all different gifts, but that was what made them special.

Multiple Countries

Friend December 2019 “Christmas Around the World” Christmas crafts, decorations, and refreshments from Mexico, Italy, Haiti, and Denmark.

Friend December 2021 “Christmas Crafts around the World” Sweden, Philippines, Brazil, England

For the Strength of Youth December 2023 Around the world, people celebrate the Savior’s birth in many different ways. Match the Christmas tradition with the part of the world it originates from.

Christmas Foods Around the World

For the Strength of Youth December 2022 “Fun Stop” Can you match the bolded food names with their picture and description? (Hint: foods are grouped on a table by country.) Christmas Food around the World: 1. E 2. F 3. A 4. B 5. K 6. L 7. I 8. J 9. C 10. D 11. G 12. H

Dec 12 2020

13th Article of Faith

Posted on December 12, 2020 by Camilla

Friend January 1988

Friend December 2015

Friend December 2021 “Matt and Mandy”

Read Philippians 4:8 together, and help the children think of things that fit the descriptions in the verse (see also Articles of Faith 1:13). Invite the children to draw pictures of these things. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians” )

“Article of Faith 13” (December 2011 Friend)
Use words from the thirteenth article of faith to complete scenarios.

Ask the children to name things that fit the descriptions in Philippians 4:8. Invite them to keep a list this week of anything they notice that fits these descriptions. Encourage them to bring their lists to Primary next week and share what they found. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Philippians; Colossians” )

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Admonition of Paul” Lesson ideas

Dec 10 2020

Baptism: Lesson Ideas

Posted on December 10, 2020 by Camilla

What is Baptism
Why Get Baptized
I can be baptized as Jesus was.
- I can keep my baptismal covenants.
I Can be Baptized When I Am Eight Years Old.
Preparing for Baptism
Baptismal Covenants

What is Baptism

Friend May 2024 “What Is Baptism and Confirmation?” Jesus Christ was baptized. After you turn eight, you can be baptized too! When you’re baptized, your whole body goes under the water. This reminds us that sins and bad choices can be washed away because of Jesus Christ. You promise Heavenly Father that you will do your best to follow His commandments.

After baptism comes confirmation. This is when you get the gift of the Holy Ghost. That means the Holy Ghost can always be with you! He can help you follow Jesus’s example.

Why Get Baptized

Friend March 2021 “Matt and Mandy” Matt invites a friend to his baptism. His friend asks why he is getting baptized. Matt explains the fourth article of faith to him.

Following Jesus

For the Strength of Youth January 2023 “Our Promise to Be a Light” One day, as John baptized people in the Jordan River, Jesus Christ came and asked to be baptized. John was surprised. He knew that Jesus always obeyed God’s commandments and did not need to repent. In fact, he thought that Jesus should baptize him (see Matthew 3:14)! Jesus explained that God had commanded all people to be baptized, so He too needed to be baptized to set an example. John agreed and baptized Jesus in the Jordan River.

Friend February 2021 “Feeling Christ’s Love”

Friend February 2019 “Jesus was Baptized”

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Why was the Savior baptized? 2 Nephi 31: 4-13

To Be Obedient to the Father & To be an Example for Us

7) But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments.

To Show us that We Need to Enter the Gate (Baptism) that Leads to the Path Towards Eternal Life

9) And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them

Friend August 2019 “A New Path: Coloring Page” When I am baptized, I choose to walk a new path with Jesus. (See Romans 6:4.)

We Need to Follow His Example and be Baptized

5) And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!

10) And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me

Friend August 2023 “Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation”

Friend August 2023 “Special Issue: Baptism and Confirmation”

Friend February 2024 “I Can Be Baptized Like Jesus”

Friend August 2023 “Giorgia’s Big Day” When a friend asks Giorgia about the picture of Jesus being baptized, she told her she was going to be baptized soon like Jesus because she wanted to follow him. She invited her friend to her baptism. Her baptism was a special day. She had chosen to follow Jesus. And she wanted to keep following Him every day!

I must be baptized to enter the kingdom of heaven.

CHAPTER 3

Joshua leads Israel to the Jordan—The Lord cuts off the water of the Jordan; it stands up as a heap, and Israel passes over on dry ground.

Joshua 3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Joshua 1–8; 23–24” The story of Joshua leading the Israelites through the Jordan River into the promised land provides an opportunity to teach the children that we must be baptized to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Review some details of the story of the children of Israel crossing the Jordan River to enter the promised land (see “Joshua the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories). Then show a picture of Jesus being baptized, and tell the children that Jesus was baptized in the same river. Invite the children to share other things they know about Jesus’s baptism.

Sing a song about baptism with the children, such as “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100–101). Help them identify what this song teaches us about why Jesus was baptized and why we should follow His example. Let the children share their feelings about being baptized. Talk about what the children can do now to prepare to be baptized when they are eight years old.

Friend February 2022 “Jesus Said”

I need to be baptized and confirmed to return to live with Heavenly Father.

John 3:1–10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “John 2–4” The children you teach are preparing to take important steps to live with Heavenly Father again by being baptized (born of water) and confirmed (born of the Spirit). How can you help them understand the importance of these two ordinances?

What does it mean to be “born again into the kingdom of heaven”?

To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Born Again, Born of God” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) For additional information click on link.

Summarize the story of Jesus teaching Nicodemus (see John 3:1–10). Promise the children that when they are baptized, Heavenly Father will give them the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Show the children this week’s activity page, and ask them to describe the drawings. Read John 3:5, and testify that we need to be baptized and confirmed to live with Heavenly Father again.

Ask the children to talk about what they do to wash their hands. Show the picture Girl Being Baptized (Gospel Art Book, no. 104), and help the children compare washing our hands with water to becoming spiritually clean through baptism.

Cleansed from Sin

Cleansing – Boy learns that through the atonement we can be cleansed of our sins. Friend January 1985 (Story also includes bleach and food coloring object lesson.)

Because of Jesus Christ, I can repent and be clean.

Isaiah 1:2–4, 16–19

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 1–12” Isaiah lived in a time when many of his people had turned away from the Lord. But the Lord promised them that their sins could be forgiven if they repented. He makes this promise to us as well.

Ask the children to read Isaiah 1:2–4 and talk about some of the reasons the Lord was not happy with the people of Judah. Then read Isaiah 1:16–19 together to learn what the Lord invited the people to do. As needed, help the children understand difficult words and phrases. To help them visualize verse 18, display something bright red and something pure white. What do we learn about Jesus Christ’s mercy from these verses? Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus Christ’s gift of forgiveness, and share your feelings as well.

Friend February 1996 “Matt and Mandy”

Help the children memorize Isaiah 1:18. Write the verse on the board, and invite the children to recite it several times, erasing one word each time until they can recite it from memory. You could also use paper strips with words from the verse written on them. Why is it important to always remember what this verse teaches? Discuss how being baptized and partaking of the sacrament make this promise available to us.

Have a child cover the words below with paper strips after each time the class repeats the scripture.

I can be baptized as Jesus was.

Matthew 3:13–17

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” How can you use the account of Jesus’s baptism to help the children prepare to be baptized?

Summarize the story of the Savior’s baptism (see Matthew 3:13–17; see also “Chapter 10: Jesus Is Baptized,” in New Testament Stories, 26–29, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain that Jesus was baptized by immersion by someone who had priesthood authority. Repeat the story several times and invite the children to share the details they remember.

Immersion means a person is “immersed” all the way under water and brought back up. Baptism by immersion is beautifully symbolic, not only of the washing away of sins, but of death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism signifies the end of your old way of life and birth to a life committed to following Jesus Christ. (Come Unto Christ “Baptism”)

Priesthood Authority

What authority did John the Baptist have to baptize? (The Aaronic Priesthood.)
What authority must the person who is baptizing us have to baptize? (He must be a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood or hold the Melchizedek Priesthood.)

Show a picture of Jesus being baptized and this week’s activity page. Let the children point out similarities between the two pictures. (There’s a picture of Jesus being baptized in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families.)

Red Crystal Lesson Ideas

Latter Day Kids “Jesus was Baptized” Lesson ideas

“Lesson 6: The Baptism of Jesus Christ,” Primary 7: New Testament

Have two children come to the front of the class, face each other, and hold hands above their heads to form an area the other children can walk under. Explain that these children represent a very important gate. Tell the children that this gate is the entrance to the strait and narrow path that leads to eternal life. Have a child read 2 Nephi 31:17. Explain that one of the first steps to eternal life is going through the gate (being baptized). Have the children walk through the gate.

Write the following questions about baptism and their scripture references on the chalkboard or a piece of paper: Why are we baptized? (D&C 49:13; 2 Nephi 31:18.) How are we baptized? (D&C 20:72–74.) By whom are we baptized? (D&C 20:73.) When are we baptized? (D&C 68:27.) Have the children look up the scriptures and discuss the answers.
Write each of the following phrases on a separate piece of paper:
- For the remission of our sins
- To become members of the Church
- So we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost
- To be obedient
- To get on the strait and narrow path
Have the children pass through the gate used at the beginning of the lesson. As each child goes through, hand him or her one of the papers. Explain that these are reasons why we must be baptized. Discuss with the children how we can keep our baptismal covenants.

Friend February 2023 “Baptism”

Friend February 2019 “Jesus was Baptized”

We Need to Follow His Example and be Baptized

5) And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfill all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!

10) And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me

Friend March 2017 “Jesus Was Baptized”

Friend February 2019 “Coloring Page”

“John Baptizes Jesus” (February 2015 Friend)
Scripture figures for the story of John baptizing Jesus.

Sing “When Jesus Christ Was Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 102). Explain that Jesus was baptized to obey Heavenly Father. One day, your little ones can choose to be baptized too! Tell your children about your baptism. Why was it special to you? Friend January 2023

Why was the Savior baptized?

To Be Obedient to the Father & To be an Example for Us

To Show us that We Need to Enter the Gate (Baptism) that Leads to the Path Towards Eternal Life

9) And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them.

New Era April 2014 “The Gate and the Path”

Friend August 2019 “Coloring Page: A New Path” When I am baptized, I choose to walk a new path with Jesus. (See Romans 6:4.)

We Need to Follow His Example and be Baptized

10) And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 31-33” Display the picture in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families, and ask the children to share what they know about Jesus’s baptism (see Matthew 3:13–17). Put the following words in random order on the board: Jesus witnessed unto the Father that He would be obedient unto Him. Invite the children to read 2 Nephi 31:7 as a class and put the words into the correct order.

Ask the children what they would say to someone preparing to be baptized, and help them compile their advice onto simple cards they could give to someone. How can we continue to follow the example of Jesus after we are baptized?

New Testament Coloring Book “Jesus’s Baptism”

“Jesus Christ Is Baptized” (July 2009 Friend)
A rebus story about the baptism of Jesus.

“Baptism” (January 2003 Liahona and Friend)
Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles tells how Jesus Christ set an example for us by being baptized.
“The Baptism of Jesus Christ” (August 1999 Friend)
The story of the baptism of Jesus Christ. Includes figures to cut out and use to tell the story.

“Jesus Is Baptized” (February 2011 Friend)
A retelling of the story of Jesus Christ’s baptism taken from the New Testament.

Coloring page: “Jesus Christ Is Baptized” (February 2013 Friend)

Friend February 2015 “Jesus Was Baptized” Scripture jar questions. Link also includes other lesson ideas.

Gospel Art Picture: “John the Baptist Baptizing Jesus”

Music: “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100)
Music: “This Is My Beloved Son” (Children’s Songbook, 76)
Music: “When Jesus Christ Was Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 102)
Poster: “John the Baptist” (February 2011 Friend)
Image and short description of who he is.
Poster “Our Savior, Jesus Christ” (March 2010 Friend)
Image and scripture telling about Christ’s baptism.
Sheet Music (simplified): “Baptism” (May 2012 Friend)
Video: ASL Video, “Baptism”
Video: ASL Video, “When Jesus Christ Was Baptized”

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures “Baptized Like Jesus” Lesson ideas

I can keep my baptismal covenants.

Matthew 3:13–17; Mark 1:1–11; Luke 3:2–18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” Learning about the account of Jesus’s baptism provides a good opportunity to help the children review their baptismal covenants and recommit to keeping them.

Invite the children to take turns reading verses from Mark 1:1–11. Discuss why Heavenly Father wants us to be baptized. Why was Jesus baptized, even though He did not need to be cleansed from sin? Help the children find answers to this question in Matthew 3:13–15 and 2 Nephi 31:6–7.

Why was the Savior baptized 2 Nephi 31: 4-13

To Be Obedient to the Father & To be an Example for Us

To Show us that We Need to Enter the Gate (Baptism) that Leads to the Path Towards Eternal Life

9) And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3” When you were baptized, you followed the example of the Savior. Compare what you learn from the accounts of the Savior’s baptism with what happened during your baptism.

The Savior’s Baptism	My Baptism
Who baptized Jesus, and what authority did he hold?	Who baptized you, and what authority did he hold?
Where was Jesus baptized?	Where were you baptized?
How was Jesus baptized?	How were you baptized?
Why was Jesus baptized?	Why were you baptized?
How did Heavenly Father show that He was pleased with Jesus?	How did Heavenly Father show that He was pleased when you were baptized? How has He shown His approval since then?

Review the covenants the children made at baptism, found in Mosiah 18:8–10 and Doctrine and Covenants 20:37. Invite the children to write these references on this week’s activity page.

Review the promises the children will make when they are baptized (see Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:37; Gospel Topics, “Baptism,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask them which of these things they are already doing.

Feel sorry for our sins

Have a desire to follow Jesus (keep his commandments)

Have a desire to be baptized

Desire to help others

Willing to be a witness of Jesus Christ (Tell others of Jesus and the gospel)

Invite a member of the bishopric to tell the children about the baptismal interview they will have before they are baptized.

Sing together a song about baptism, such as “Baptism” (Children’s Songbook, 100–101). Consider asking a child to lead the other children while they sing.

Use Matthew 3:11, 16 to teach the children that the Holy Ghost descended on Jesus when He was baptized (a dove appeared as a sign to show that this had happened). Show the picture The Gift of the Holy Ghost (Gospel Art Book, no. 105), and explain that we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost when we are confirmed.

I Can be Baptized When I Am Eight Years Old.

Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”

In Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28, the Lord told Joseph Smith that children should learn to have faith in Jesus Christ, repent, and be baptized when they are eight years old. He also said that they should learn to pray and keep God’s commandments.

Why age 8? Old enough to understand the doctrine of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ and prepared and ready to make sacred covenants.

Invite the children to count to eight using their fingers. What is special about being eight years old? Help the children recognize that when they are eight years old, they can be baptized. Using words and phrases found in Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28, share with them some of the things the Lord wants them to learn about before they are eight (see also Articles of Faith 1:4). Help them understand concepts that might not be familiar to them.
Sing with the children a song about baptism, such as “Baptism” or “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook,100–101, 103). Ask the children to share how they feel about being baptized and what they can do to prepare.

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Find items around your home that remind you of baptism. A cup of water could remind you of how we are baptized by immersion. A piece of white cloth could remind you of how we wear white. A blanket could remind you of the warm feeling of the Holy Ghost. What else can you think of?

Latter Day Kids “Baptism Symbols” Lesson Ideas and Videos

Preparing for Baptism

I am preparing to be baptized

Friend August 2023 “Steps to the Font” Find your way through the maze to the baptism font. Go through each picture to see what you can do to prepare.

Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 71–74

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 20–22: The Rise of the Church of Christ”

When the Church was organized, the Lord taught His Saints about sacred ordinances, including baptism and the sacrament.

If someone in your family is not yet baptized, these verses could lead to a discussion about how to prepare for baptism (see verse 37) and how baptisms are performed. Family members could share pictures or memories from their baptismal day.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 20–22: The Rise of the Church of Christ”

Show a picture of a child being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, no. 104), and ask the children to point out things they notice. Read or summarize Doctrine and Covenants 20:71–74, and help the children see how the picture matches the instructions in these verses. Testify that we should follow the Savior’s example and be baptized in the way He has commanded.

71 No one can be received into the church of Christ unless he has arrived unto the years of accountability before God, and is capable of repentance.

See Primary 3 “Lesson 27: The Age of Accountability,” for ideas on how to explain accountability. Includes activities, object lessons, and stories.

Why age 8? Old enough to understand the doctrine of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ and prepared and ready to make sacred covenants.

72 Baptism is to be administered in the following manner unto all those who repent—

73 The person who is called of God and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall go down into the water with the person who has presented himself or herself for baptism, and shall say, calling him or her by name: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

What authority did John the Baptist have to baptize? (The Aaronic Priesthood.)
What authority must the person who is baptizing us have to baptize? (He must be a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood or hold the Melchizedek Priesthood.)

74 Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water.

Immersion means a person is “immersed” all the way under water and brought back up. Baptism by immersion is beautifully symbolic, not only of the washing away of sins, but of death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism signifies the end of your old way of life and birth to a life committed to following Jesus Christ. (Come Unto Christ “Baptism”)

37 And again, by way of commandment to the church concerning the manner of baptism—All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received by baptism into his church.

Sing “When I Am Baptized”

Liahona February 2021 “Helping Children Prepare for Baptism”

Teaching Children the Gospel “Mosiah 18-24: Alma Baptizes at the Waters of Mormon” Lesson, story, and activity ideas about the scripture story, baptism, and baptism covenants

Friend February 2019 “Learning about Baptism” Some things to know about getting baptized.

Friend February 2021 “My Baptism Day” Make a baptism book.

Friend February 2019 “Family Night Fun” Baptism lesson ideas.

Friend February 2015 “Jesus Was Baptized” Scripture jar questions. Link also includes other lesson ideas.

Friend June 2016 “Funstuff: My Baptism Bag” When you’re baptized, you make a covenant, or promise, to always remember Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. You can remember your covenants by making a baptism bag!

Friend November 2019 “Conference News” President Nelson announced that anyone who has been baptized can be an official witness at another person’s baptism.

I can prepare to be baptized.

Moroni 6:1–3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Moroni 1–6: “To Keep Them in the Right Way”

Read phrases from Moroni 6:1–3 that teach who can be baptized. Explain terms the children may not understand. For instance, one meaning of “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” is to feel sorry for our sins (Moroni 6:2). Tell about how you prepared to be baptized, or ask someone who was recently baptized to explain how he or she prepared. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to be baptized someday.

Reading Book of Mormon before Baptism

Friend February 2019 “Ingrid’s Birthday Surprise” Ingrid gets a special present for her seventh birthday from her mom—a Book of Mormon. It was a special gift to help her prepare for her baptism. Ingrid read the entire Book of Mormon that year and prayed for and received a testimony of its truthfulness.

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Friend June 2016 “Jason’s Study Buddy” Jason reads the entire Book of Mormon before his baptism. His testimony grows.

Friend February 2022 “Goals for Baptism” After hearing about the Children and Youth program, Zoe set a goal to read the Book of Mormon before her baptism. As she read, she wanted to do more good things, so she joined the world wide fast about Covid, and she prayed and fasted for a testimony.

We need to bring forth “fruits worthy of repentance.”

Luke 3:2–14

Come, Follow Me—For Sunday School: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3”

In Luke 3:8, John the Baptist taught the people that before they could be baptized, they needed to show “fruits,” or evidence, of their repentance. How can you help class members recognize the evidence of their own repentance? You might ask them to search Luke 3:8–14 and look for what John considered “fruits” of repentance. They could also review Moroni 6:1–3 and Doctrine and Covenants 20:37. You might draw a fruit tree on the board and let class members label the fruit on the tree with the “fruits” of repentance they find. This could also be a good time to talk about what it means to truly repent.

Bishop Interview

Friend August 2019 “Ready to Be Baptized” Trevan’s baptism interview with the bishop was coming up and he was worried that he might not know the answers. The missionaries came for dinner and they taught a lesson about baptism. They reminded Trevan of the covenants he would be making with the acronym “take.” Each letter stands for a baptismal covenant. The missionaries also go over the baptism questions with Trevan, and he realizes he is ready to be baptized. (Also includes a bookmark with the “take” acronym on it.)

Inviting Friends and Family to Baptism

Friend August 2023 “Come to My Baptism!” Making an invitation.

Baptismal Covenants

Taking on the Name of Christ

Friend April 1988 “A Name to Live up to” Jenny is sad that she isn’t named after someone whom she could try to be like–someone who did great deeds–but she is reminded that she took on the name of Jesus when she was baptized.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 18–19: “The Worth of Souls Is Great”

Do your family members’ names have special meaning? Maybe you could talk about why names are important and what it means to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ (see Mosiah 5:7). This could be a good opportunity to help family members prepare to take Christ’s name upon themselves when they are baptized.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Mosiah 4-6”

Talk to the children about why people put their names on things, such as school assignments, sports jerseys, and so on (see Mosiah 5:14–15). How can we show that we have Christ’s name “written always in [our] hearts”? (Mosiah 5:12).

Being baptized makes us “one in Christ.” (Sr)

Galatians 3:26–28

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” )

Friend February 2021 “Your Baptism Covenant”

Friend February 2019 “Family Night Fun” The baptism covenant is a promise between two individuals: you and Heavenly Father. Here’s a recipe that needs just two ingredients! Bananut Ice Cream

Review the promises the children will make when they are baptized (see Mosiah 18:8–10; Doctrine and Covenants 20:37; Gospel Topics, “Baptism,” topics.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask them which of these things they are already doing.

Feel sorry for our sins

Have a desire to follow Jesus (keep his commandments)

Have a desire to be baptized

Desire to help others

Willing to be a witness of Jesus Christ (Tell others of Jesus and the gospel)

Invite a member of the bishopric to tell the children about the baptismal interview they will have before they are baptized.

Prepare several pairs of cards with matching phrases or pictures that represent our baptismal covenants. Place the cards facedown. Invite the children to take turns turning over two at a time, looking for a match. After a match is made, invite children to share ways they have kept that covenant.

Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

Friend March 2023 “Baptismal Covenants”

Share how keeping your baptismal covenants has blessed you.

Come, Follow Me—For Sunday School: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3”

Elder David A. Bednar taught: “The baptismal covenant includes three fundamental commitments: (1) to be willing to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, (2) to always remember Him, and (3) to keep His commandments. The promised blessing for honoring this covenant is ‘that [we] may always have his Spirit to be with [us]’ [Doctrine and Covenants 20:77]. Thus, baptism is the essential preparation to receive the authorized opportunity for the constant companionship of the third member of the Godhead” (“Always Retain a Remission of Your Sins,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 60). For an example of a young boy keeping his baptismal covenants, see the story at the beginning of Sister Carole M. Stephens’s message “We Have Great Reason to Rejoice” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 115–17).

When I Am Baptized I Promise to Follow Jesus

Friend February 2021 “Bright Idea”

Friend February 2021 “The Savior and Me” Fill out the page and look at it during the sacrament to remember Jesus and the covenant you made.

Friend May 2024 “A Baptism Promise” Keaton wanted to get baptized when he turned eight because he loves Jesus and wants to follow him. He father wasn’t a member, but he thought that was a good reason to get baptized. His grandfather baptized him and his father gave a talk about the promise he would be making to always remember Jesus. He said, “I hope your baptism always reminds you to love God and love others.”

Following and Standing as a Witness of Jesus Christ

Friend June 2021 “Just Like She Imagined” Kvitka was excited to be baptized, but she was sad her friends couldn’t come due to Covid. Her Grandma asks her to be a missionary (be a witness of Jesus Christ) to her aunt and cousin when they come and show them around the meeting house. She felt warm inside when she did and when told them she was getting baptized because she wants to follow Jesus.

Bear One Another’s Burdens

Galatians 6:2

Show a picture of a child being baptized (such as Gospel Art Book, no. 104). Ask the children what the child is doing. Explain that when we are baptized, we make covenants, or promises. Read Galatians 6:2 or Mosiah 18:8 to help the children learn one of the things we promise to do: bear one another’s burdens. Invite the children to draw pictures of ways they can help others who are carrying burdens. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians” )

Friend May 2020 “Ali’s Head Start” Ali learns that when she is baptized she will be covenanting (promising) to bear one another’s burdens, (or in other words, she will be promising to help those who are going through a hard time). Ali decides to get a head start on her covenants when she sees children without hair as she walked through the hospital to go visit a friend. She decides to donate some of her long hair so those children can have wigs.

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Read to the children this phrase from Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” To illustrate what this means, give one of the children something heavy to carry. Then ask for a volunteer to help the child carry the object. Explain to the children that many things can feel like a burden, such as being sick or feeling sad or lonely. What could we do to help a person with this kind of burden? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Galatians”)

The Red Crystal

I’ll Walk With You

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “Jesus wants me to help those in need.” Tell them that people in need might be those who are sick, hurt, or lonely. Think of what you can do as a family to help others.

Friend January 2024 “You Can Make a Difference” President Susan H. Porter, Primary General President talks about how to keep Baptismal covenants by serving and lifting others.

Who can I help today? Write your ideas on your paper chain!

Comfort Those Who Need Comfort

Heavenly Father comforts me, and I can comfort others. (Jr)

2 Corinthians 1:3–4

Show the children some things that provide comfort, such as a blanket or bandage. Ask the children what comforts them when they are sad or afraid or have other problems. Read 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 with the children, and explain that “tribulation” is another word for really hard problems. Share some ways Heavenly Father has comforted you, and testify that He will comfort the children as well. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

The Red Crystal

Friend March 2019 “Missing Mom and Dad” Dylan’s mom and dad were going on a trip, and he was going to stay with his grandparents. He loved staying with his grandparents, but for some reason he was scared about being away from his mom and dad for so long. He decided to pray for help, and he received comforting thoughts and feelings.

Show pictures of people being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–4) while you read 2 Corinthians 1:4 to the children. Explain that when we are baptized, we promise to comfort others. How can we follow Paul’s counsel to “comfort them which are in any trouble”? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Friend March 2021 “Jesus Comforted Others”

Friend September 2023 “Come, Follow Me Activities for Little Ones” Give each of your little ones a long hug. Help them find words to tell you how it feels to be wrapped in a long, tender hug. Teach them that God loves us and wants to show us how much He cares.

Heavenly Father comforts me, and I can comfort others. (Sr)

We all experience heartache and sorrow, setbacks and obstacles, and discomfort and sickness. When the people of Corinth experienced hardship, Paul wrote to Church members there to offer continued support and counsel. He testified of the comfort and peace available to them through Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (see 2 Corinthians 1:3–4). This lesson can help you to understand some of the ways God provides comfort to His children and to identify ways in which you can share His comfort with others. (New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “2 Corinthians 1; 4”)

2 Corinthians 1:3–4

As you read 2 Corinthians 1:3–4, ask the children to listen for an answer to the question “What does God do for us?” Help the children list ways in which God comforts us. Invite the children to share experiences when they were sad or worried or afraid and God comforted them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

He gives us thoughts in our mind and feelings in our heart through the Holy Ghost.

A feeling that Heavenly Father and Jesus loves us.
A feeling of comfort when we are sad or lonely
A good feeling when we hear beautiful music or see inspiring art
A peaceful feeling that everything is going to be okay.

He also sends people to help and comfort us.
God’s words, such as in the Scriptures, can also touch our hearts and help comfort us.

Invite the children to share ways we can keep our baptismal covenant to comfort others (see Mosiah 18:9). Give them time to think of someone they know who needs comfort and make a plan to reach out to that person. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “2 Corinthians 1-7” )

Friend August 2022 “Jesus Promised Us Comfort”

Making and keeping covenants can help me be more like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Zechariah 3:1–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14” In a vision, Zechariah saw a high priest named Joshua, who was “clothed with filthy garments” (Zechariah 3:3). An angel gave him clean clothing and explained that this symbolized being cleansed from his sins. You could use this vision to help the children understand the covenants and blessings associated with baptism.

Read together Zechariah 3:1–7 and discuss questions like these: What did Joshua’s “filthy garments” represent? How do we become clean from our sins? How do our baptismal covenants help us “walk in [the Lord’s] ways”?
A few days before class, invite a child to come prepared to talk about his or her baptism. Review together the covenant we make at baptism (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:37). How will keeping our promises help us become more like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? How does taking the sacrament each week help us keep our baptismal covenants?

Jesus Christ can make my spirit clean.

Zechariah 3:1–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14” The high priest Joshua’s dirty clothes, described in Zechariah 3:1–7, symbolize what happens when we sin. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can be made clean, as Joshua was made clean when he received new clothes.

Let the children pass around a dirty shirt, and read Zechariah 3:3. Then pass around a clean shirt, and read verse 4. Talk with the children about how making wrong choices is like becoming dirty spiritually, but the Savior can make us clean again. How do we feel when we are clean? Share your testimony that because Jesus Christ suffered and died for us, we will be clean from our sins as we repent.
If possible, show the children a picture of someone they know dressed in white at his or her baptism (or see Gospel Art Book, nos. 103, 104). Why do we wear white at our baptisms? Sing a song about baptism, such as “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103). Invite the children to draw themselves being baptized and share how they feel about being baptized someday.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Haggai; Zechariah 1–3; 7–14”As you read these verses, you could show your family some dirty clothes. How might Joshua have felt when he stood before the angel in dirty clothes? How is sin like dirty clothes? What does Zechariah 3:1–7 teach us about forgiveness? You could then clean the clothes together and talk about the cleansing power of the Savior’s Atonement.

Friend December 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

Story: In a vision, Zechariah saw a man wearing dirty clothes. An angel came to the man and gave him clean clothes. (See Zechariah 3:3–5.) Putting on clean clothes can remind us of repenting. When we make a wrong choice, we can repent and be clean again.

Song: “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79)

Activity: Talk about how repenting can lighten your load. Then do the activity on page 12. How do you feel when you repent?

Being baptized is like becoming a new person. (Represents death of old sinful person and rebirth)

Romans 6:1–11

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Romans 1-6” The children you teach are preparing for baptism. What can they learn about baptism from Romans 6?

Invite the children to repeat the phrase “Walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Tell the children what this means to you. For example, you might share memories about the day you were baptized and talk about how your baptism has helped you become more like Jesus Christ. Use this week’s activity page to teach the children that baptism helps us become a new person.

Friend February 2020

Fighting with siblings/ Sharing with siblings

Doing chores when asked/ Complaining about chores

Getting angry after losing a game/ Choosing to congratulate the winner

Choosing to make fun of someone/ Choosing to be kind

If any of the children have attended a baptism, ask them to share their experience. Or show a picture of someone being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 35, 103–4). Help the children understand that at baptism we make promises to become like Jesus. Invite them to draw pictures of themselves being baptized and share what they can do to prepare for their baptisms.

Friend August 2023 “Steps to the Font” Find your way through the maze to the baptism font. Go through each picture to see what you can do to prepare.

Sing with the children a song about baptism, such as “When I Am Baptized” (Children’s Songbook, 103). What do we learn about baptism from this song?

Being baptized is like becoming a new person. (Represents death of old sinful person and rebirth)

Romans 6:1–11

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Romans 1-6” Paul taught that baptism symbolizes the death and Resurrection of Christ. It also symbolizes being raised up to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). We renew our commitment to walk in newness of life every time we partake of the sacrament.

Invite a child to read Romans 6:3–6. What did Paul say baptism is “in the likeness of”?

New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “Romans 6” Yielding ourselves to God is not easy. But Jesus Christ promises that as we let our old, sinful selves die, He will give us new life, changing our natures to become more like Him. Paul taught that through the ordinance of baptism, we can receive the Savior’s transforming power to help us “walk in newness of life” ( Romans 6:4).

Discuss how baptism symbolizes death and resurrection. It may help to display a picture of a baptism or show a video like “The Baptism of Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Why are death and resurrection good symbols of what happens when we are baptized?

Read together the sacrament prayers (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:77, 79). Remind the children that when we take the sacrament, we renew the commitment to follow Jesus Christ that we made when we were baptized. How does the sacrament help us “walk in newness of life”?

Invite the children to draw pictures that show what it means to them to “walk in newness of life.” The children could hang these pictures in their rooms to help them remember to make good choices.

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Repentance is Part of Keeping Baptismal Covenants

Friend March 2023 “Keeping His Promise” Happiness was excited to make his baptismal covenants. After his baptism he felt so good inside! He wanted to feel this clean and happy forever. He never wanted to make a wrong choice again. But a few days later he told a lie to his father and felt bad felt bad for breaking his baptismal promise. He told his father what he had done. He father forgave him and told him, “When you were baptized, you didn’t promise to be perfect. You promised to try hard to follow Jesus. When we repent, Heavenly Father forgives us. Then we can be just as clean as we were the day we were baptized. Repenting is part of keeping your baptism promise.”

Clean Again

Friend May 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Margo said some mean things to her friend and feels terrible. She wants to be baptized again to become clean again. Her mom explains she doesn’t need to do that. She can repent and be forgiven, and when she takes the sacrament she can promise to do better.

Baptism Covenants

Friend February 2019 “The Baptism Covenant” Cut out and mix up these cards. Then take turns matching cards that go together. With each match, talk about that part of the baptism covenant.

Friend December 2021 “Elder Soares Speaks to Children” Video Cartoon about keeping baptismal covenants

Friend February 2019 “Promise to Try” Tatsuki‘s teacher came to his house to talk to him about his upcoming baptism. He became concened when he learned about the covenants he would be making. He didn’t think he would be like Jesus every day. Then his mom reminded him of the kind things he had done and told him that he was following Jesus by doing those things. He also learned that he could repent and be forgiven if he made mistakes. He was then happy that he could be baptized and try to be like Jesus.

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How to Remember Baptismal Covenants

Friend August 2022 “Friends by Mail” My parents gave me a white blanket for my baptism like in the story “Wrapped Up in Love” (February 2021). It helps me remember my baptism covenants. (Includes photo)

Keeping Baptismal Covenants

Friend August 2023 “My Baptismal Covenant”

Baptism Concerns

Melissa’s Baptism – Girl is upset because her nonmember father isn’t coming to her baptism. Friend March 1984

Friend June 2016 “Who will Baptize Me” Margo thinks her baptism won’t be special because her father can’t baptize her, but she learns that isn’t true.

Friend August 2019 “A New Path: Coloring Page” When I am baptized, I choose to walk a new path with Jesus. (See Romans 6:4.)

Baptism Day

Friend August 2023 “My Baptism and Confirmation”

Friend July 2015 Journaling about your baptism

Friend February 2022 “Find It” What did you like best when you got baptized? Or what are you looking forward to the most? Find the hidden items below.

Children can be Witnesses at Baptisms

Friend November 2019 “Conference News” President Nelson announced that anyone who has been baptized can be an official witness at another person’s baptism.

Friend February 2021 “Show and Tell” I was a witness at my cousin’s baptism. This experience was very powerful and special for me. I know we should follow Jesus’s example and be baptized. Liberty H. (right), age 9, Georgia, USA (Link includes photo)

Friend February 2025 ” Margo and Paolo: A Special Job” Margo and Paulo are asked to be the witnesses at their cousins baptism.

Baptism and Confirmation

Friend February 2025 “Teach Me about Baptism and Confirmation”

Confirmation

Friend August 2023 “Confirmation and the Gift of the Holy Ghost”

Friend August 2023 “Connect the Dots” After you’re baptized, you’re confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You also receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to guide and comfort you. Connect the dots to finish the picture.

Friend July 2023 “A Member of Jesus Christ’s Church”

Table of Contents

The Lord Needs Me to Do His Work.

The Lord invites me to help with His work.

God Can Work Through Each of Us to Fulfill His Purposes.

I can be an instrument in God’s hands.

I Can Help “Advance the Cause” of Jesus Christ.

I can choose to serve Jesus Christ.

I Can Serve the Lord with My Heart and Mind.

I Can Give My Best Effort to the Lord.

I Can Help “Bear the Burden” of Doing the Lord’s Work.

Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause

Cheerfully Serving

The Lord Will Help Me Accomplish His Will.

My small offerings can make a difference.

The Lord can use small things to do great work.

“Be strong and of a good courage, the Lord thy God is with Thee”

If I Have Faith, I Can Do Whatever God Needs Me to Do.

The Spirit Can Speak to Our Hearts and Help Us Know What God Would Have Us Do and Say.

God will prepare me to work in His kingdom.

Jesus Christ Can Help Me Be Strong.

I can help the work of God advance despite opposition.

Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Help Do His Work.

I can walk in the ways of God.

Heavenly Father Gives Me Spiritual Gifts to Bless Others.

Heavenly Father has blessed me with spiritual gifts. (Jr)

I have spiritual gifts. (Sr)

God has given me gifts to help with His work.

Ways to Serve

Keeping Church Clean

Keeping Church Grounds Beautiful

Passing Sacrament

Ministering

Family History Service

Singing

Playing Piano or Other Instruments

Leading Music

Giving Talks

Serve in Temples

Missions and Volunteer Work

Serving at Bishop’s Storehouse

Callings

Those who serve in the Church are called by God.

What is common consent?

Releases

Youth Callings

Family History

Song Ideas

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Restoration Proclamation

Reading Chart

An Overview of the Doctrine and Covenants: How it Came to Be and What it Contains

Topics from Doctrine Covenants 1:1-38

Joseph Smith’s Childhood

The First Vision

The Angel Moroni Appears to Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith Learns about the Gold Plates

Elijah and the Sealing Keys

Joseph Begins to Translate the Gold Plates

Martin Harris and the Lost 116 Pages

Oliver Cowdery and Joseph work on Translation

Oliver Cowdery Tries to Translate

Joseph and Oliver wonder if they should Retranslate the Lost 116 Pages

Hyrum Smith asks Joseph to Seek the Lord’s Will on His Behalf

Joseph Knight wanted to know how he could help in the work of the Lord. The Lord’s answer is D&C 12.

John the Baptist restores the Aaronic Priesthood.

Joseph and Oliver are Baptized

The Whitmer Family: Miracle of the Plowed Field, Joseph and Oliver Stays with them while Translating, and a Revelation for the Whitmer Family

The Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses

Printing of the Book of Mormon

Restoration of the Church

People disrupt baptisms and break dam and make trouble for the church and Joseph

Revelation for Emma, including selecting hymns for the saints to sing

An angel tells Joseph not to buy wine from their enemies for the sacrament.

Hiram Page claims to receive revelations for the church

Oliver Cowdery’s mission to the Lamanites

The Gathering of God’s People and Second Coming Revelation

Some scriptures in the D&C about the death, resurrection, and atonement of Jesus Christ