Tag Archives: church history

Jan 12 2025

Joseph Smith History 1:1-26

Posted on by

Table of Contents

Joseph Smith—History Chapter 1 Joseph Smith tells of his ancestry, family members, and their early abodes—An unusual excitement about religion prevails in western New York—He determines to seek wisdom as directed by James—The Father and the Son appear, and Joseph is called to his prophetic ministry. (Verses 1–20.)

Joseph Smith’s Childhood

Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.

The home life and nurture provided by Joseph Smith’s parents and siblings shaped much of Joseph’s early prophetic work. His attention to prayer and Bible study owed much to his parents’ religious commitments. (Church History Topics: Joseph Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith Family)

Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26”

  • Learning about Joseph Smith’s youth could help your children relate to him as they learn from his experiences. Maybe they could hold a picture of Joseph Smith and share what they know about him. If needed, you might add some facts about him from Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14 (see also “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 6–8, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). What did Joseph experience that helped prepare him to become a prophet? What might God be preparing us to do?

Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family” Images and Video

Friend January 2017 “The Smith Family”

Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in the state of Vermont in the United States of America. He was the fourth of nine children. When Joseph was ten years old, he and his family moved to the state of New York, settling near the town of Palmyra (point out this area on the map). The Smith family was poor, and all the members of the family had to work hard to provide food and other necessities for the family. The family had moved many times before settling near Palmyra, where they found farmland on which crops would grow well.

Joseph did not have much opportunity to attend school, so he learned only the basics of reading, writing, and simple arithmetic. Joseph’s mother said that he seemed just like other boys his age until the time of his vision. She said he was quiet and well-mannered and liked to study and think about important things. He was a tall, athletic, cheerful boy who seldom got angry.

Friend February 2008 “An Operation on Joseph’s Leg”

Latter Day Kids “”My Servant Joseph” Lesson, story, and song ideas

See more about Joseph Smith’s childhood here

Joseph Smith’s First Vision

Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

Ask a child to leave the room for a moment. Show the two containers to the rest of the class without letting them see inside. Divide the class into two groups and give each a container. Tell the children in each group that when the child who left the room returns, they are to try to persuade him or her to choose their container. Invite the child to return to the room and choose one of the containers. Ask the child who chose the container questions such as the following:

  • Why did you choose that container?
  • How did you feel when others were trying to tell you what to do?

Explain that when Joseph Smith was fourteen years old, he was confused about a choice he needed to make. He was trying to decide which church he should join. Other people tried to help him choose a church, but he only became more confused. He felt that he needed more information to make a wise decision: he wanted to know which church was true. Joseph’s situation was similar to that of the child who had to choose between the two containers. Everyone wanted him to choose their church, but he did not know which church was the right choice.

Why was Joseph confused about which church he should join? (JS—H 1:5–10.)

New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

God can answer my questions through the scriptures.

Joseph Smith—History 1:10–13

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

  • Consider showing your children a variety of books, (like an encyclopedia or a cookbook), and help them think of questions these books could answer. Then show them a copy of the scriptures. What questions can these books answer? Then you could read together Joseph Smith—History 1:10–11 to find out what questions Joseph Smith had and what answers he found in the scriptures.
  • Your children might be able to find words in verse 12 that describe how reading James 1:5 affected Joseph. Then you could share experiences with each other in which a passage of scripture had a powerful influence on you.

Friend November 2023 “James Says “Ask of God”

New Era January 2017 “Line upon Line: James 1:5–6”

Come Follow Me Kid Hop from one scripture line to another and read it out loud and then discuss what it means. For memorizing the scripture have them do it again and say the phrases, and maybe a little faster each time.

Heavenly Father hears and answers my prayers.

Joseph Smith—History 1:10–19

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

To start a discussion about how we communicate with Heavenly Father, perhaps you and your children could ask each other questions using various communication methods, like a text message, a phone call, or a handwritten note.

How do we ask questions to Heavenly Father? How do we show Him that we love and honor Him in our prayers? Read together Joseph Smith—History 1:16–19 and discuss how Heavenly Father answered Joseph Smith’s prayer. You and your children could then share experiences when you asked God for help and received an answer.

New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

Friend January 2025 “Coloring Page: Heavenly Father Hears and Answers My Prayers”

Friend January 2025 “My Own Sacred Grove” I Can Play It

Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Joseph Smith—History 1:17–19

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

  • Young children might enjoy standing with outstretched arms pretending to be trees in the Sacred Grove while you tell them about the First Vision. Ask the children to sway as if being blown by the wind while you talk about Joseph praying. Then ask them to stand very still and quiet when you tell them Heavenly Father and Jesus appeared to Joseph.

Gospel Art Picture: “The First Vision”

  • Older children might enjoy using one or more of the pictures in this outline to tell you what they know about the First Vision. Encourage them to refer to Joseph Smith—History 1:14–17 and to share their thoughts and feelings about Joseph’s experience (see also “Chapter 2: Joseph Smith’s First Vision,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 9–12, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library).

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

  • To review the account of the First Vision, write summaries of each verse from Joseph Smith—History 1:14–19 on separate slips of paper. Place the papers in a container, and invite the children to choose them one by one and place them on the board in the correct order.

Invite the children to color this week’s activity page and use it to tell the story of the First Vision.

Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

I can remain true to what I know, even if others reject me.

Joseph Smith—History 1:21–26

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

  • Read together Joseph’s testimony in Joseph Smith—History 1:25. Ask the children to look for words and phrases that show Joseph’s faith. How can we remain faithful to God and our testimonies when other people disagree with us?

Friend November 2019 “Jesus is Real” Everyone at Ismay’s table at school were excitedly talking about Christmas and their favorite traditions such as going to a church service. Suddenly Charlotte spoke up and said, “Jesus isn’t even real.” Ismay was sad to hear this and she quietly bore her testimony to Charlotte that Jesus was real, and that she felt it in her heart. She was glad she had spoken up and planted a seed about Jesus.

Additional Resources

More resources about the First Vision can be found here

The Red Crystal

Feb 5 2022

Joseph Smith

Posted on by

Table of Contents

Prophet Portrait: “Joseph Smith” (January 2013 Liahona and Friend)
Coloring Page: “Prophet Joseph Smith” (April 2008 Friend)

Joseph Smith was Chosen Before the World Began

Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) It was decreed in the counsels of eternity, long before the foundations of the earth were laid, that he, Joseph Smith, should be the man, in the last dispensation of this world, to bring forth the word of God to the people, and receive the fulness of the keys and power of the Priesthood of the Son of God.(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young [1997], 96, 343)

Friend February 2020 “My Family Night Fun: Pretend Plates”

  • Prophets long ago knew that a man named Joseph would translate the scriptures (see 2 Nephi 3:7, 15). They wrote about him on the gold plates. Can you imagine how Joseph Smith felt when he translated those words?

Joseph of Egypt Prophesied about Joseph Smith

Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) Chapter 3 of 2 Nephi records Lehi’s dying words to his youngest son, Joseph. Lehi quoted a prophecy [from the brass plates] made by Joseph of Egypt roughly 1,700 years before the birth of Christ. Imagine Joseph Smith’s surprise when he discovered that he was the subject of much of the prophecy made by Joseph of Egypt. (see also Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:24–38 (Note that “fruit of thy loins” refers to children or posterity.)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 42–50” Thousands of years in advance, Joseph of Egypt saw that the Lord would call Joseph Smith to do a great work in the latter days.

Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix) Joseph in Egypt prophesies of Moses freeing Israel from Egyptian bondage; of a branch of Joseph’s descendants being led to a faraway land, where they will be remembered in the covenants of the Lord; of God calling a latter-day prophet named Joseph to join the records of Judah and of Joseph.

  • Give the children descriptive clues about Joseph Smith, and invite them to guess who you are describing. Include clues from Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 50:27–33 (in the Bible appendix), such as “he taught us about covenants” (see verse 28), “he gave us the word of the Lord” (see verse 30), and “he was named after his father” (see verse 33). After the children guess correctly, invite them to find these clues in the verses. What else do we learn about Joseph Smith from the prophecy of Joseph in Egypt?

Lehi Refers to a Prophecy About Joseph Smith

Read the verses for each picture and identify who these four pictures represent. 2 Nephi 3:3; 2 Nephi 3:4; 2 Nephi 3:11; 2 Nephi 3:15

  • Invite the children to search 2 Nephi 3:6–24 for clues about which prophet is being spoken of. List the clues on the board. Why is Joseph Smith called a “choice seer”? What did Joseph Smith do that is “of great worth to [his brethren]”? (verse 7).

Liahona February 2020 “Meet the Four Josephs” Lehi tells his son Joseph about some of the prophecies that Joseph of Egypt made about Joseph Smith, who was named after his father, Joseph. The article includes the following: What Did Joseph of Egypt Say about Joseph Smith? How Was Joseph Smith Like Joseph of Egypt? How Did Lehi Know about Joseph of Egypt?

Joseph Smith’s Childhood

Videos

Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family” Images and Video

Latter Day Kids “”My Servant Joseph” Lesson, story, and song ideas

Images

Media Library “Joseph Smith’s Family”

For the Strength of Youth February 2021 “Joseph Smith Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith”

Flannel Board Figures

Friend January 2017 “The Smith Family”

Stories

Operation On Joseph’s Leg

Cutout Figures: “Joseph Smith’s Operation” (February 2008 Friend)

Friend February 2008 “An Operation on Joseph’s Leg”

Lesson Ideas

Joseph Smith Made Good Choices as a Child and So Can I

Come Follow Me Kid Watch “Joseph Smith and His Family”, or tell the story above about the operation on Joseph’s leg. Tell them to pay close attention to what Joseph Smith decided to do when doctors told him that his leg would hurt a LOT during the operation unless he would drink wine. Joseph Smith made good choices as a child. We can make good choices too.

Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.

The home life and nurture provided by Joseph Smith’s parents and siblings shaped much of Joseph’s early prophetic work. His attention to prayer and Bible study owed much to his parents’ religious commitments. (Church History Topics: Joseph Sr. and Lucy Mack Smith Family)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

  • Joseph was chosen by God and prepared to be a prophet. Joseph’s experiences as a boy prepared him to be a prophet of God. A prophet is someone who speaks for God.

Ensign December 2005 “The Early Preparation of the Prophet Joseph Smith” Excellent! Story of his early life

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26”

  • Learning about Joseph Smith’s youth could help your children relate to him as they learn from his experiences. Maybe they could hold a picture of Joseph Smith and share what they know about him. If needed, you might add some facts about him from Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14 (see also “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 6–8, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). What did Joseph experience that helped prepare him to become a prophet? What might God be preparing us to do?

Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in the state of Vermont in the United States of America. He was the fourth of nine children. When Joseph was ten years old, he and his family moved to the state of New York, settling near the town of Palmyra (point out this area on the map). The Smith family was poor, and all the members of the family had to work hard to provide food and other necessities for the family. The family had moved many times before settling near Palmyra, where they found farmland on which crops would grow well.

Joseph did not have much opportunity to attend school, so he learned only the basics of reading, writing, and simple arithmetic. Joseph’s mother said that he seemed just like other boys his age until the time of his vision. She said he was quiet and well-mannered and liked to study and think about important things. He was a tall, athletic, cheerful boy who seldom got angry.

“Lessons from the Prophet Joseph” (February 2014 Friend)

Additional Resources

Asael Smith (Joseph Smith’s Grandfather)

“My grandfather, Asael smith long ago predicted that there would be a prophet raised up in the family, and. my grandmother was fully satisfied that it was fulfilled in me. My grandfather Asael died Oct 31, 1830 after having received the Book of Mormon and read it nearly through, and. he declared, that I was the very prophet that he had long known would come in his family.” (D.H.C. Vol. II p. 443)

“It has been borne in upon my soul that one of my descendants will promulgate a work to revolutionize the world of religious faith” (quoted in George Q. Cannon, Life of Joseph Smith, the Prophet [1986], 26).

Childhood Games

  • “Stick Pull” (February 2014 Friend)
    You can play a game played by Joseph Smith.

Historical Sites

Friend December 2018 “Digging into History” Children help archaeologists dig for clues for what life was like for Joseph Smith when he was young living in Vermont with his family. They find stone fences and some artifacts. The article includes photos.

  • “A Prophet Is Born” (December 2012 Friend)
    Learn about Joseph Smith’s early life with three children who visit their grandparents who are missionaries at the Prophet’s birthplace in Vermont.
  • “Two Houses Where Joseph Smith Lived” (January 2013 Liahona and Friend)
    Explore two houses where Joseph Smith lived in New York.

The First Vision

Click on link above for First Vision resources

Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon

Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates

Book of Mormon Stories: Chapter One “How We Got the Book of Mormon” Video and images about the story of Joseph Smith and the golden plates.

Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 3: The Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates” Images and Video

Friend February 2017 “Golden Plates to Book of Mormon”

Friend July 1988 “Calendar Cutouts” Read one scripture each day. Match the highlighted scriptures to the correct picture. Ezekiel 37:15-20, 2 Nephi 3:12; 29:8, Psalm 85:11& Mormon 8:16, Moses 7:62 & Isaiah 29:4, 2 Nephi 26:14-17, Ether1:1 & 2:11, Enos 1:15-16, Mormon 5:12-14, Revelation 14:6, 1 Nephi 1:1 & 9:5, Omni 1:8-9, Introduction to Helaman, 3 Nephi 23:4-5, 3 Nephi 23:6-14, Words of Mormon 1:1-2, Mormon 8:1 & Moroni 10:1-2, Joseph Smith History 1:30-35, D&C 27:5 & 128:20, Joseph Smith History 1:44-47, Joseph Smith History 1:48-50, Joseph Smith History 1:51-52, Joseph Smith History 1:53-54, Joseph Smith History 1:59, Joseph Smith History 1:62, Joseph Smith History 1:67 & D&C 3:preface, D&C 25:1&5-6, Isaiah 29:11, Joseph Smith History 1:61 & 63-65, 2 Corinthians 13:1 & D&C 5:4 &11&13, D&C 19:preface & 26 & 34-35, Joseph Smith History 1:60

Friend July 1988

What does translate mean? Translate means to change from one language to another.

Show the paper with the words “Le Livre De Mormon” written on it. Tell the children that the words are French. The English version of these words is “The Book of Mormon”. Show this paper. Both sets of words mean the same thing, but they are different languages.

The gold plates were written in an ancient language that needed to be translated into a language others could read.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Introductory Pages of the Book of Mormon”

Show the children an image of characters from the golden plates. Explain that God helped Joseph translate these characters into words we can read and understand.

For the Strength of Youth January 2921 “Joseph Smith Jr.”

Lost 116 Pages

Friend January 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Plain and Precious Plates” The Lord told Nephi to make another set of plates for a special and wise purpose (see 1 Nephi 9). Make your own set of plates out of folded paper or pieces of cardboard. (You can even wrap your paper or cardboard with aluminum foil!) Write or draw what you learn from the Book of Mormon on your plates.

Emma Smith

Friend January 2021 “Church History Cards”

What the Lord accomplished through the Prophet Joseph Smith

  • Show the children pictures that represent important things Joseph Smith did or taught (see, for example, Gospel Art Book, nos. 89–95, 97, 98, 117, 118). Help the children think of blessings we have because of Joseph Smith. For example, how has his work helped us come closer to Jesus Christ?
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 135-136”
  • Display items that represent some of the Lord’s marvelous works during the latter days, such as a picture of the First Vision or of Joseph Smith receiving the priesthood (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 90, 93, 94) or a copy of the Book of Mormon. Invite the children to choose an item and share why it is marvelous to them.

Friend January 2021 “Church History Cards” Cut out the cards, fold on the dotted line, and tape them closed.

Church History Gospel Art

Joseph Smith was a prophet and seer

2 Nephi 3:6–24

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “2 Nephi 3-5”

  • Consider how you can teach your children about the great work that God accomplished through Joseph Smith. To begin, you could help your children find the word “seer” in 2 Nephi 3:6 and explain that prophets are called seers because Heavenly Father helps them see things we can’t see. Share why you are grateful to have a seer leading the Church.

To help family members understand what a seer is, perhaps you could show them pictures of tools that help us see things we couldn’t otherwise see, such as binoculars, a telescope, or a microscope. How are these tools like a seer? (see Moses 6:35–36). What can seers see that we do not? What evidence do we have that Joseph Smith was a seer?

  • The Gospel Art Book has several pictures you could use to teach about the work God did through Joseph Smith (see pictures 89–95). Let your children share what they know about the pictures. Why is Joseph Smith called a “choice seer”? What did Joseph Smith do that is “of great worth”? (verse 7).
Church History Gospel Art

“Sing a Song of Joseph” (May 2007 Friend) Perform this musical play with your friends.

Activities

Friend December 1979

Friend May 2021 “Draw Joseph Smith”

“Lessons from the Prophet Joseph” (February 2014 Friend) Read the article by President Eyring and then do the crossword puzzle.

Friend May 2011 “The Church of Jesus Christ Has Been Restored” Hidden in the picture of Joseph in the Sacred Grove are items related to the restoration of the Church.

  • Gold plates (the word of the Lord)
  • Kirtland Temple (temple work)
  • Sacrament tray (remembering Jesus Christ)
  • Missionary name tag (missionary work)
  • Baptismal font (covenanting with the Lord)
  • Keys (the priesthood)
  • Dove (the Holy Ghost)

Friend December 1984 “Joseph Smith, the Prophet” – history of church- also timeline on next page

Friend January 2021 “Church History Cards” Cut out the cards, fold on the dotted line, and tape them closed.

Jan 3 2022

Church History: Songs

Posted on by

Table of Contents

Joseph Smith

Praise to the Man

Joseph Smith’s First Vision

Joseph Smith’s First Prayer/ Oh, How Lovely was the Morning

Joseph Smith’s First Prayer: Music & Video – Friend January 2017

[Verse 1]
Oh, how lovely was the morning!
Radiant beamed the sun above
Bees were humming, sweet birds singing
Music ringing thru the grove
When within the shady woodland
Joseph sought the God of love
When within the shady woodland
Joseph sought the God of love

[Verse 2]
Humbly kneeling, sweet appealing—
‘Twas the boy’s first uttered prayer—
When the pow’rs of sin assailing
Filled his soul with deep despair;
But undaunted, still he trusted
In his Heav’nly Father’s care;
But undaunted, still he trusted
In his Heav’nly Father’s care

[Verse 3]
Suddenly a light descended
Brighter far than noonday sun
And a shining, glorious pillar
O’er him fell, around him shone
While appeared two heav’nly beings
God the Father and the Son
While appeared two heav’nly beings
God the Father and the Son

[Verse 4]
“Joseph, this is my Beloved;
Hear him!” Oh, how sweet the word!
Joseph’s humble prayer was answered
And he listened to the Lord
Oh, what rapture filled his bosom
For he saw the living God;
Oh, what rapture filled his bosom
For he saw the living God

The First Vision

Friend April 2020 “The First Vision” Music and Video

  • 1. Joseph had a question about the way to go, So faithfully he studied to help his knowledge grow. A scripture struck his heart, inviting him to pray, And Joseph knew that he could ask for God to show him the way.
  • 2. Seeking peaceful quiet, he chose a grove of trees And prayed with all his power for God to hear his plea. The Father and the Son descended from above To answer Joseph’s question and restore the gospel with love.
  • 3. From that wondrous vision, more revelations flowed. The Lord restored the gospel so everyone can know: The heavens are not closed; the Savior speaks today. He calls a prophet in our time to guide our steps in His way.
  • Chorus: He prayed in faith and heaven answered. The Father and the Son knew his name. I kneel to pray. I know God loves me And hears my prayers the same.

This is My Beloved Son

Verse 3:
Joseph saw two glorious beings
Shining brighter than the sun.
God again presented Jesus:
“This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!”

On a Golden Springtime

Music: “On a Golden Springtime” (Children’s Songbook, 88)

Third Verse: On a golden springtime, in a forest glade, The Father and the Son appeared as Joseph knelt and prayed. Awake, awake, O nations all! Receive the gospel light! The gospel true is here for you. Receive its glorious light!

The Sacred Grove

Music: “The Sacred Grove” (Children’s Songbook, 87)

The Sacred Grove was green and fresh, The morning sun shone bright around, As Joseph knelt in fervent prayer, As Joseph knelt in fervent prayer Upon that sacred ground.

The Father and the Son appeared. They spoke to him as with one voice. Their message answered all his fears, Their message answered all his fears And made his heart rejoice.

My Own Sacred Grove

Friend January 2025 “My Own Sacred Grove” I Can Play It

Joseph Smith went to a grove full of trees; Seeking Gods wisdom, he fell to his knees. As he pled with the heavens, the sky filled with light, And the Father appeared with His Son, Jesus Christ, Standing above in the air Coming to answer his prayer.

Chorus: I will find my own sacred grove. Away from all of the noise in the world. I will turn to prayer, For I know He’s there I will find my own sacred grove.

So many choices with so much at stake. Life’s full of pathways, but which should I take? If I lift up in prayer in the name of the Son, Through the pow’r of the Holy Ghost answers will come. Heavenly Father is there, Ready to answer my prayer.

Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon

The Golden Plates

Music: “The Golden Plates” (Children’s Songbook, 86)

See also “An Angel from on High,” Hymns, no. 13.

Sing or say the words to “An Angel Came to Joseph Smith”(Children’s Songbook, p. 86)

Restoration

Jesus’ Church has been Restored

Jesus’ Church has been Restored: Friend May 2017 – Music & Video

Jesus blessed the children when He walked in Galilee, He brought a young girl back to life. He blessed the blind to see. But some forgot! His Church was lost with its authority. Now priesthood pow’r is back on earth to bless a child like me.

Heav’nly Father and His Son came to the Sacred Grove. They brought the Church to earth again so all could feel Their love. Moroni and Elijah came—and Peter, James, and John—With precious keys and blessings that for centuries were gone.

Temples all around the world, Apostles, revelation: These all are part of God’s great gift—the gospel’s restoration. The sacrament I take each week, baptism, confirmation: I’m thankful for God’s gift to me—the gospel’s restoration.

Now gospel truths are back once more, For Jesus’ Church has been restored.

The Priesthood is Restored

Pioneer Songs

I’m a Pioneer Too

Friend July 2020 “I’m a Pioneer Too” Song and Sing-Along Music Video

  1. From England to Samoa, From Kenya to Peru, Brave pioneers in every land Helped spread the gospel true.
  2. Some pioneers pulled handcarts; Some sailed across the sea. On plains and shores and mountains, they Blazed paths for you and me.
  3. They listened to the prophets, Built towns and temples too. Their faith was strong in Jesus Christ. Their courage saw them through.
  4. Chorus: The Lord has trails for me to blaze And work for me to do. Each time I bravely walk with faith, I’m a pioneer too!

When I Hear of Pioneer Children

Friend July 2016 “When I Hear of Pioneer Children”

  • When I hear of pioneer children,
  • Of trials and courage and faith,
  • I want to be willing as they were
  • To look to the Lord for my strength.
  • I’ll follow the prophets as they did,
  • For I want to build Zion too!
  • I’ll try to have faith to do hard things
  • When that’s what He needs me to do.
  • When I hear of pioneer children,
  • I want to be strong for my day.
  • I’ll try to keep all the commandments
  • And be a true Latter-day Saint.
  • I’ll stand as a shining example
  • That others who follow will see,
  • I’ll be like those pioneer children;
  • The Lord is depending on me.

Come, Come Ye Saints

Friend July 2017 “Come, Come Ye Saints” Simplified sheet music and music video

Pioneer Song Review Games

  Pioneer Choosing Activity

Since it was Pioneer Day this week, I decided to have the children sing pioneer songs for music time. I started out with a choosing activity. I used the crickets and seagull idea from Sugar Doodle. I covered the outside of a metal bowl with green tissue paper to make it look like a green hill. I printed off some crickets and a seagull from clip art on Microsoft Word.  I used double sided tape and taped a strong magnet to the back of each cricket. I also wrote the name of a pioneer song on the back of each cricket. I put the crickets on the bowl. I taped one end of a string to the back of the seagull. I taped the other end to a dowel rod. On the back of the seagull’s beak I attached a paper clip.

In Primary I told the story of the crickets and the seagulls. After that I had a child “fly” the seagull to the crickets and pick one up with the beak. We sang what song was on the back. I chose the following songs to put on the back of the crickets:

Pioneer Children Sang as They Walked

For this song I had the senior primary children get up and move over one seat every time they sang the word “walked”. This only works if you have all the children sitting in an even number of rows and in one section with no aisles. The children in the front row will move to the left, the children in the second row will move to the right, and so forth. When a child comes to the end of their row, they will go to the row in front of them. If they are already on the front row, they will move to the back row.

The children loved this activity. The teachers even wanted to participate, which was good because they helped any children that were unsure of what to do. (I had pages of a flip chart made by Jolly Jen posted on the board just incase someone didn’t know the words.)

For junior primary have them slowly walk randomly around the room as they sing the first two lines. Then have them stop and do the following actions: rub their hands together for washing in the stream, hammering action for work, jumping rope for play, making a tent with finger tips pressed together for camped, making a book with open palms together for read, and making praying hands for the word prayed. Then have them start walking again as they sing the last line, but this time have them walk back to their seats. On the last walk word have them sit down.

The Handcart Song

For the handcart song, I used the hand cart racing activity -July Friend 1981 Funstuff.  Since we aren’t supposed to use competition in Primary, I had the teachers do this activity. The kids thought that was funny. I tied the two strings to two empty chairs in the front row. I had the words/flip-chart made by Laurie Lee posted on the board. I told the teachers they could begin racing when we started singing the second half of the song. (The children knew the second half of the song better than the first, so they were able to watch the race and sing at the same time.)

It is really hard to get those pictures to move along the string, so it was funny watching the teachers try all kinds of ways to make them

To Be a Pioneer

For this song I used the pictures found on page 3 of the July 2010 Friend (flip-chart). I posted them on a display board. You could put the do’s and don’ts on different sides. I had a child wear a bonnet to represent a pioneer. She did the actions to the first part of the song such as: pretending to push a handcart, waving goodbye, walking. Then when it came to the part “to be a pioneer” she pointed to herself.

I told the childen they could develop the characteristics of a pioneer such as courage, faith, and working for a cause that is right. I used a boy with a missionary tag to be a modern pioneer. He pointed to himself when we came to the ending part “to be a pioneer”

Friend July 2019 “To Be a Pioneer” Simplified playing version and music video.

Fun to Do

We also did Sugardoodle pioneer actions to the song Fun to Do. I had them start off with bouncing on their chair to represent riding in a wagon (Riding in wagon is fun to do). Then I asked if they could think of any other actions pioneers did. I gave them some suggestions. They came up with “getting warm by the fire is fun to do”. They put their hands out like feeling the warmth and then rubbed their hands together. They also wanted to do milking a cow.

Apr 5 2021

Doctrine and Covenants 30-36

Posted on by

I should focus more on the things of God than the things of the earth.

Doctrine and Covenants 30:1–2

Friend February 2017 “Conference Cards” Handout that says, ““The only opinion of us that matters is what our Heavenly Father thinks of us.”

Friend August 2018 “Soccer and Sundays” When we try to live the gospel and put the most important things first, we are blessed! Follow the path of scriptures to help the boy get to church.

Two Stories of people who believed the gospel was worth more than the things of the world.

Parley and Thankful Pratt

Parley and Thankful Pratt responded to spiritual stirrings to leave their prosperous farm in Ohio with the intent to preach the gospel as they understood it from the Bible. As Parley told his brother, “The spirit of these things had wrought so powerfully on my mind of late that I could not rest.”3 When they reached eastern New York, Parley had a prompting to stay awhile in the area. Thankful, they decided, would continue on without him. “I have a work to do in this region of country,” Parley told her, “and what it is, or how long it will take to perform it, I know not; but I will come when it is performed.”4 It was there that Parley first heard of the Book of Mormon. “I felt a strange interest in the book,” he said.5 He requested a copy and read through the night. By morning, he knew the book was true, valuing it “more than all the riches of the world.”6 Within a few days Parley was baptized. He then returned to Thankful, who was also baptized. (For more information about Parley P. Pratt, see Doctrine and Covenants 32.) Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

Sidney and Phebe Rigdon

For the Strength of Youth April 2021 “To Do the Will of God”

Sidney knew that joining the Church would be a major sacrifice for his family. He would obviously lose his job as a minister, along with his social status in the community. As he and Phebe discussed this possibility, Phebe declared, “I have counted the cost, and … it is my desire to do the will of God, come life or come death.”8 Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

How are we doing as a family at focusing on the things of God rather than “the things of the earth”?

First Missionaries in the Church

Doctrine and Covenants 33:2–3, 6–10

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 13: The First Missionaries Preach the Gospel,” 

Scatter the small pictures of people or papers with names around the room. Ask for a volunteer. When you say “go,” have the volunteer gather as many “people” (pictures or pieces of paper) as possible in a specified amount of time (about five seconds, or the amount of time it takes the other children to count slowly to five). Count how many people the child was able to gather.

Ask the children if more people could be gathered if the child had help. Scatter the pictures or papers around the room again, and ask for a second volunteer. Have the two children gather as many people as possible in the same amount of time as before. Count how many people the two children were able to gather.

  • How many people did one child gather? How many people did two children gather?
  • How many people do you think could be gathered if the whole class worked together?

Display the picture of Joseph Smith.

Explain that after the Book of Mormon had been printed and the Church was organized, Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ wanted everyone to hear the gospel and have the opportunity to become a member of the Church.

Help the children look up Doctrine and Covenants 133:37, and ask a child to read the verse aloud. Explain that this verse is part of a revelation given to Joseph Smith in 1831, the year after the Church was organized.

  • To whom does the gospel need to be preached?
  • How long do you think it would take for one person to teach the gospel to everyone on the earth?

Explain that Joseph Smith knew it would be impossible for him to teach the gospel to everyone by himself. He needed others to help him. Just as two children were able to gather more pictures (or pieces of paper) than one child was, more members of the Church working to share the gospel would be able to teach more people than Joseph alone could teach.

Friend April 2017 “First Missionaries”

Friend April 2017

Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories “Samuel Smith’s Mission” Images and video

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

Parley P. Pratt had been a member of the Church for about a month when he was called “into the wilderness” to preach the gospel (Doctrine and Covenants 32:2). Thomas B. Marsh had been a member for even less time than that when he was told, “The hour of your mission is come” (Doctrine and Covenants 31:3). Orson Pratt, Edward Partridge, and many others had likewise barely been baptized when their mission calls came. Perhaps this timing was all of necessity—in the fall of 1830, no one had been a member of the Church for more than six months. But there’s also a lesson in this pattern for us today: if you know enough to accept the restored gospel by baptism, you know enough to share it with others. Of course we always want to increase our gospel knowledge, but God has never hesitated to call upon the “unlearned” to preach His gospel (Doctrine and Covenants 35:13). In fact, He invites all of us, “Open your mouth to declare my gospel” (Doctrine and Covenants 30:5). And we do that best not through our own wisdom and experience but “by the power of [the] Spirit” (Doctrine and Covenants 35:13).

Friend April 2021 “Missionaries Shared the Gospel”

Mission to the Lamanites

Doctrine and Covenants 32; 35

Doctrine and Covenant Stories “A Mission to the Lamanites” Images and video

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Missionaries Called to the American Indian Nations”

See also “A Mission to the Lamanites,” Revelations in Context,45–49.

Invite a ward member to learn about one of the missionaries called in Doctrine and Covenants 30–34 and to share with the children what they learned (see “Voices of the Restoration: Early Converts” in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families or “The Faith and Fall of Thomas Marsh,” “Ezra Thayer: From Skeptic to Believer,” “Orson Pratt’s Call to Serve,” Revelations in Context, 54–69).

I can share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

  • Invite the children to try to say a phrase like “God loves you” with their mouths closed. Point out that we can’t teach people about the gospel if we don’t open our mouths. Read Doctrine and Covenants 33:8–10, and invite the children to open their mouths every time they hear the phrase “open your mouths.” Why does Heavenly Father want us to open our mouths and share the gospel with others?
  • Whisper something very quietly to the children, such as “Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God,” and ask them to repeat what you said. Then say the same phrase in a louder voice. Read Doctrine and Covenants 33:2. Help the children understand that “lift[ing] up [our] voices” means to not be afraid to tell others about Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon, and other gospel truths.
  • Pick a phrase from verse 10, and invite a family member to whisper it. Other family members could try to guess the phrase. Then ask a family member to say the phrase in a loud voice. How does this activity help us understand why the Lord commands us to “lift up your voice”?
  • Draw a large mouth on the board, and help the children find in Doctrine and Covenants 33:8–10 the Lord’s promises to us when we open our mouths to share the gospel. Let the children write these promises on the board, and help them understand what these promises mean. Ask each child to write inside the mouth a gospel truth they can share with others.
  • Show a picture of a trumpet, and talk about what it means to preach the gospel “as with the sound of a trump.” How do we “lift up” our voices? (Doctrine and Covenants 33:2; 34:6).
  • Place paper dolls or pictures of people around the room. Invite the children to find the people and gather them to the front of the room. Read Doctrine and Covenants 33:6, and explain what it means that the Lord will “gather [His] elect.” Testify that we can help gather people to the Lord as we share the gospel.
  • Ask the children to share how they are preparing to serve missions someday. If they know someone (perhaps a family member) who is serving, invite them to tell about his or her experiences. Or invite missionaries, a returned missionary, or someone preparing for a mission to share his or her enthusiasm for missionary work. Share some of your experiences sharing the gospel, including experiences in your daily life.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 13: The First Missionaries Preach the Gospel,” 

Set up a row of dominoes (or similar items such as thin blocks of wood, slender boxes, or small books). Place them on end just far enough apart so that if one is knocked down, it will knock down the next one. As you knock the first domino down, ask the children to observe the chain reaction. Call attention to the effect of one domino upon all the others. Explain that we too may affect the lives of others in a chain reaction. By sharing the gospel with even one person, we sometimes touch the lives of many others. (You may want to remind the children of how Samuel Smith sold a Book of Mormon to Phineas Young, who gave it to his brother Brigham, who passed it on yet again. Samuel Smith’s small action of selling one Book of Mormon affected many people.)

Sing a song about sharing the gospel, such as “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 168). Help the children think of ways they can help other people learn about Jesus Christ.

Friend April 2021 “I Can Share the Gospel” Coloring Page

As you read the Lord’s promises to Thomas B. Marsh about his family, you could talk about the blessings that have come to your family because of missionary work. You could also sing a related hymn, such as “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go” (Hymns, no. 270). How has your family been blessed by sharing the gospel with others?

  • Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

    • Friend April 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”

    • Sing “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 168).
    • After Jesus Christ’s Church was restored, God called missionaries to go and teach more people about it. You can read about some of the first missionaries on page 42.
    • Write letters or draw pictures to send to the missionaries! You could give them to the missionaries serving in your area or send them to a missionary serving somewhere else. Talk about ways you can share the gospel too.

    See also Missionary and Resources by Topic: Missionary Work

    I can build my life on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    Doctrine and Covenants 33:12–17

  • Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

    • Show the children a picture of the foundation of a building, and ask them to describe it. Why does a building need a strong, solid foundation? Read with the children Doctrine and Covenants 33:12–13, and explain that the Lord wants us to build our lives on His gospel. Help the children think of some ways they can build their lives on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
    • Give the children some objects that they can use to build a tower, such as blocks or plastic cups. Label each object with a picture representing things the Lord said in Doctrine and Covenants 33:14–17. Invite the children to build a tower as you talk with them about how these things help us build our lives on Jesus Christ’s gospel.
    • Bring to class items of differing hardness, such as a stuffed animal, a sponge, clay, and a rock. Allow the children to handle each one. Ask them to look in Doctrine and Covenants 33:12–13 to find out how the Lord describes His gospel. Why is “rock” a good word to describe the gospel? How can we build our lives on the rock of the gospel?
    • Help the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 33:12–17 and find things we can do to build our lives on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Invite the children to draw a picture of something they find, and let them guess what each other’s pictures are portraying.

    Friend August 2020 “A Strong Foundation” We need to build our foundation on the gospel Jesus Christ. When we do, we will be able to withstand hard things in life.

    Sing “The Wise Man and the Foolish Man“

    Additional Resources:

    See also Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 30-36”

    Sidney and Phebe Rigdon

    On his way from New York to a mission in Missouri, Parley Pratt and his fellow laborers stopped in Mentor, Ohio, at the home of Sidney and Phebe Rigdon—old friends Parley knew from his days in Ohio. Sidney was a Christian minister, and Parley was once a member of his congregation and considered him a spiritual mentor. Parley eagerly told his friends about the Book of Mormon and the Restoration of Jesus Christ’s gospel. Sidney himself had been searching for a restoration of the true Church that he found described in the New Testament, though he was skeptical about the Book of Mormon at first. “But I will read your book,” he told his friend Parley, “and will endeavor to ascertain, whether it be a revelation from God or not.”7 After two weeks of study and prayer, both he and Phebe were convinced the book was true. But Sidney also knew that joining the Church would be a major sacrifice for his family. He would obviously lose his job as a minister, along with his social status in the community. As he and Phebe discussed this possibility, Phebe declared, “I have counted the cost, and … it is my desire to do the will of God, come life or come death.”8 Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

    Mar 29 2021

    Doctrine and Covenants: Easter

    Posted on by

    See more teaching ideas at Easter and Resurrection

    Because of Jesus Christ, I will be resurrected.

    Doctrine and Covenants 63:49; 88:14–17, 27; 138:11, 14–17

    Easter Scripture Story

    Cutouts


    Friend April 2020 “The First Easter” Cut out the story and the pictures to tell the story of the first Easter.

    Joseph Smith knew how it feels to mourn the death of loved ones. Two of his brothers, Alvin and Don Carlos, died as young men. Joseph and Emma buried six children, each younger than two years old. But from the revelations he received, Joseph gained an eternal perspective on death and God’s eternal plan. Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Easter: “I Am He Who Liveth, I Am He Who Was Slain”

    The Prophet Joseph Smith testified that Jesus Christ lives.

    Doctrine and Covenants 76:11–24; 110:1–10; Joseph Smith—History 1:14–17

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Easter: “I Am He Who Liveth, I Am He Who Was Slain”

    • Show the children a picture of Joseph Smith’s First Vision. Invite the children to tell you what is happening in the picture, and ask them to find Jesus Christ.

    Ask the children if they know about other times Joseph Smith saw the Savior. In your own words, tell about the experiences described in Doctrine and Covenants 76:11–24; 110:1–7. Why is it a blessing to know that Joseph Smith saw the risen Savior?

    For the Strength of Youth April 2021 “He Lives” Line by line explanation of D&C 76:22-24

    • April 3, 1836, was Easter Sunday. After helping administer the sacrament to Saints gathered in the newly dedicated Kirtland Temple, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery found a quiet place behind a veil in the temple and bowed in silent prayer. Then, on this sacred day when Christians everywhere were commemorating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the risen Savior Himself appeared in His temple, declaring, “I am he who liveth, I am he who was slain” (Doctrine and Covenants 110:4).

    Video: Watch the first part of Doctrine and Covenant Stories: Visions in the Kirtland Temple 

    Video: Watch the first part of Doctrine and Covenant Stories: The Three Kingdoms of Heaven

    Doctrine and Covenants 76:11–24; 110:1–10; Joseph Smith—History 1:14–17

    • On the board, list some truths we learn about the Savior from these verses. Invite the children to identify which verses teach the truths listed on the board. On this week’s activity page, help the children match the pictures with the scripture verses.
    • As the children color this week’s activity page, read to them the scriptures it refers to. Point out details in the pictures that are described in the verses. Testify to the children that the Prophet Joseph Smith saw Jesus Christ, and this is one reason we know that Jesus lives. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Easter: “I Am He Who Liveth, I Am He Who Was Slain”)

    Friend March 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones”

    To help your family consider the many ways the risen Savior blesses us today, you could sing together “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” (Hymns, no. 136) and connect truths taught in this song with those taught in the following scriptures: Doctrine and Covenants 6:34; 45:3–5; 84:77; 98:18; 138:23. Your family might also enjoy writing additional verses for the hymn that express how they know that their Redeemer lives. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Easter: “I Am He Who Liveth, I Am He Who Was Slain”)

    Because of Jesus Christ, I can be forgiven of my sins.

    Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–13; 19:16–19; 45:3–5; 58:42–43

    In addition to saving us from physical death, Jesus Christ provided a way for us to be saved from spiritual death—in other words, to be forgiven of our sins and return to God’s presence.

    Write on the board two headings similar to these: What the Savior did and What I must do. Invite each child to search one of the following passages to find something that belongs under these headings: Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–13; 19:16–19; 45:3–5; 58:42–43. Share your joy and gratitude for what the Savior did for us.

    Help the children learn the third article of faith. You could help them memorize it by showing pictures that go with key phrases.

    Friend February 2015

    Show the video “The Shiny Bicycle” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or tell a story of your own about a child who made a wrong choice and then repented. Help the children discuss what the child in the story did to receive forgiveness. How has the Savior made it possible for us to be forgiven?

    Additional Resources

    Liahona April 2021 “Gospel Basics: Jesus Christ Saved Us from Sin and Death”

    Resources for Teaching Children: Resources by Topic: Atonement

    Teaching Children the Gospel: Jesus Christ: Atonement

    Mar 21 2021

    Doctrine and Covenants 29

    Posted on by

    Jesus Christ will gather His people before He comes again.

    Doctrine and Covenants 29:1–8

    We are gathered by the Savior when we accept and follow His teachings.

    Watch the Video “Chicks and Hens”

    After reading Doctrine and Covenants 29:1–, act out the analogy of Christ gathering His people “as a hen gathereth her chickens.” One child could pretend to be the hen and choose a corner of the room to stand in. When he or she “clucks,” have all the children gather around him or her. Children could take turns being the hen. Hold up a picture of the Savior and invite the children to gather to Him. Share with the children how Jesus helps us when we gather to Him. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 29: “Jesus Christ Will Gather His People”)

    Friend March 2024 “The Hen and the Baby Chicks” Clara helped her dad pick out a hen to care for some baby chicks they had bought. She watched as the hen lifted up her wing and the baby chicks disappeared under it. Her dad explained that that was the way the hen protects and keeps the baby chicks safe and warm. Her dad shared the scripture of Jesus gathering us and protecting us and caring for us just like a hen gathers her chickens under her wings.

    What did the Lord say we must do to be gathered by Him?

    Ensign October 2020 “Family Study Fun” Paper Name Gathering Game

     

    We “gather Israel” when we help other people learn about the gospel. Jesus taught about this gathering in 3 Nephi 20–22.

    1. Give each person a piece of paper and ask them to write down any name that comes to mind.
    2. Everyone should close their eyes while one person hides the papers.
    3. Read 3 Nephi 20:18 and 39–40 out loud. How can you help other people learn about Jesus?
    4. While listening to a song about Jesus, invite everyone to help find the names and put them by a picture of the Savior.

    Discussion: How does it make you feel to know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know each person by name?

    Friend February 1986 Ways to be a missionary

    Friend February 1986
    Friend February 1986
    Friend February 1986
    image
    image
    image
    image
    image
    image
    image
    image

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 29: “Jesus Christ Will Gather His People”

    • One way to get the children excited about the gathering is to share the story of someone who joined the Church. For example, who introduced your family to the Church? Consider asking children in advance to find out about the first member of the Church in their families and share his or her story with the class.
    • Invite the children to make a list of ways they can help people gather to the Savior. For example, they could invite friends or family members to a Primary activity or to a home evening with their families.
    • The tenth article of faith talks about the gathering of Israel. Do any of the children have this article of faith memorized? If they do, invite them to recite it for the class. If not, help them set a goal to memorize it.

    See Jesus: Second Coming and Resources by Topic: Second Coming for additional teaching ideas also see Missionary for ideas on how the children can help with the gathering.

    I can prepare to meet the Savior.

    Doctrine and Covenants 29:2–11

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 29: “Jesus Christ Will Gather His People”

    Show a picture of the Second Coming (see Gospel Art Book,no. 66), and help a child read Doctrine and Covenants 29:11. Help the children notice phrases in the scripture that describe what they see in the picture. Share with the children how you feel about Jesus Christ coming to earth again.

    Friend October 2019 “The Living Christ” Second Coming of Jesus Christ

    Show the children pictures of things they can do to prepare to meet the Savior (such as the ones below) . Help the children find other ways to prepare for the Second Coming in Doctrine and Covenants 29:2–10.

    Friend December 2015

    Friend December 2015

    Sing a song about the Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83).

    Heavenly Father prepared a plan of salvation for me.

    Doctrine and Covenants 29

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 29: “Jesus Christ Will Gather His People”

    • Ask several children to share an example of a time when they had a plan, such as for a trip or for accomplishing a task. You could also share examples of plans, such as a calendar with activities written on it or instructions to make something. Why are plans useful? Share with the children that Heavenly Father has a plan that will allow us to become like Him.
    • To help the children understand God’s plan, make signs with these terms:
    • After explaining each term (see Doctrine and Covenants 29:9–45), give each sign to a different child, and ask them to stand in a line in the correct order to show when each event occurs in Heavenly Father’s plan. Each child could share what he or she knows about what is on his or her sign. Help the children see how knowing about Heavenly Father’s plan helps us become more like Him and the Savior.

    See also Resources by Topic: Plan of Salvation

    Use one or more of the activities below to teach truths about the plan and how they apply to us. Consider asking a few of the children to come prepared to help you teach.

    Agency

    • 2017 Sharing Time Outline Tell the children that you are thinking of a word, and give them clues to help them guess the word. Ask them to raise their hands when they know the answer. Clues could include the following: We had this before we came to earth. It is a gift from our Heavenly Father. It is an important part of Heavenly Father’s plan for us. Satan wanted to take it from us. We use it when we make choices. It is a gift that lets us choose for ourselves. It starts with the letter A. After the children have guessed the answer, say together, “Agency is the gift to choose for ourselves.”
    • 2017 Sharing Time Outline Show the children a container of many different colors of crayons. Show them a second container with only one color. Ask the children: “If you were going to color a picture, which of these containers of crayons would you want to use? Why?” Explain that having a variety of choices is a blessing. Testify that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love us and They want us to make correct choices.
    • Show the children a long stick that has the word choice written on one end and the word consequences written on the other end. Explain that a consequence is what naturally happens because of a choice we make; for example, if we choose to practice playing a musical instrument, we will get better at it, and if we choose to touch fire, we will be burned. Pick up the stick and show the children that every time you pick up the stick, you get both the choice and the consequence of that choice.

    Commandments

    • The commandments. Invite the children to make a list on the board of some of the commandments. (For examples, they could search Exodus 20:3–17 and Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–15.) Why does Heavenly Father give us commandments? What do we learn from Doctrine and Covenants 29:35 about Heavenly Father’s commandments?

    The Atonement of Jesus Christ

    • Show the children the shirt you brought, and lay it on top of a spread out plastic garbage bag. Explain to the children that sin is like dirt and stains. Apply staining items to the shirt as you mention wrong choices that stain our spirits, such as lying, using bad words, hitting a sibling, etc. (The garbage bag is to help prevent spills on the carpet.) Ask the children how they would feel if they had to wear the dirty shirt and how they would feel if they could never change the shirt or take a shower.
    • • Would it be difficult going out among people in that state?  Would we feel comfortable in heaven being among spiritually clean people if we have stains of sin upon us? Show the children the soap and explain that just like we have soap to clean our bodies and our clothes, Heavenly Father has provided a way for us to become clean from our sins. He provided a Savior for us who took upon himself our sins. How wonderful it is that we can be clean of sin because of what the Jesus Christ did for us

    What new insights did you gain? How would your life be different if you didn’t know about these truths?

    Sing “I Will Follow God’s Plan” See here for resources on how to teach the song.

    Additional Resources

    Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 29”

    Mar 15 2021

    Doctrine and Covenants 27-28

    Posted on by

    The sacrament helps me remember Jesus Christ.

    Doctrine and Covenants 27:1–3

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021″Doctrine and Covenants 27–28: “All Things Must Be Done in Order”

    Sally Knight and Emma Smith were baptized in June 1830, but their confirmations were disrupted by a mob. Two months later, Sally and her husband, Newel, came to visit Emma and Joseph, and it was decided that the confirmations should now be performed and that the group would partake of the sacrament together. While on his way to obtain wine for the sacrament, Joseph was stopped by an angel.

    The angel told him not to buy wine from his enemies (see D&C 27:3). The angel also told him that it did not matter what was eaten or drunk in the sacrament as long as those who were partaking remembered Christ’s atonement (see D&C 27:2). (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History“Lesson 12: Important Ordinances Are Restored”)  

    Read Doctrine and Covenants 27:2, beginning with “remembering unto the Father,” and ask the children to listen for what the Savior wants us to remember when we take the sacrament.( Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 27–28: “All Things Must Be Done in Order”)

    Activity and Story Ideas

    Friend April 2017 “Jesus Gave Us the Sacrament”

    Friend June 2020 “Koa and the Sacrament” He sings the sacrament hymn.Koa thinks about Jesus. He listens to the sacrament prayers. Koa is reverent. He feels happy inside!

    Friend April 2017 “Jesus Gave Us the Sacrament”

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 17–19: “Behold, My Joy Is Full” Have the children draw a picture of themselves with Jesus on the last square.

    Friend June 2019 “The Sacrament Reminds Us of Jesus Christ” Ways to prepare for the sacrament before hand, what to do during the sacrament, and remembering Jesus and following him after the sacrament.

    Friend June 2019 “The Sacrament Reminds Us of Jesus Christ” Ways to prepare for the sacrament before hand, what to do during the sacrament, and remembering Jesus and following him after the sacrament.

    Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “The Sacrament”

    For more teaching ideas see Sacrament

    Doctrine and Covenants 27: 5-14

    What do we know about the prophets in these verses? You could search for information about them in the Guide to the Scriptures (scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). What blessings have been unlocked for us through the keys they held? For more information about some of these keys, see Matthew 16:16–19; Doctrine and Covenants 110:11–16.

    The armor of God protects me and helps me withstand evil.

    Doctrine and Covenants 27:15–18

    Cut out the pieces of armor, and let the children put them on one of the figures as you read Doctrine and Covenants 27:15–18.

     outline for Ephesians in Come Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2019
    Friend June 2016
    • image
    • image
    • image
    • image
    • image

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 27–28: “All Things Must Be Done in Order”

    Perhaps your family would enjoy staging a pretend battle with additional clothing to represent the armor of God, such as hats, vests, aprons, or shoes. How does armor help protect us in battle? Discuss some of the evil influences your family faces and the things you can do to put on spiritual armor. Consider showing the video “Put on the Whole Armor of God” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

    Friend March 2021 “Scripture Time Fun: Armor Up”

    Friend March 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones”

    For additional ideas see Armor of God or Resources by Topic “Armor of God”

    Only the Prophet Receives Revelation for the Whole Church

    Doctrine and Covenants 28:1–7, 15

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 27–28: “All Things Must Be Done in Order”

    In August 1830, Hiram Page, one of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon, claimed to have received two revelations about the future location and organization of Zion using a black seer stone. These revelations contradicted previous revelations given to Joseph Smith, but many members believed them.

    Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 14: The Prophet and Revelations for the Church”

    Why is it important to know that only the living prophet can receive revelation for the whole Church? How does this protect us from deception?

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 27–28: “All Things Must Be Done in Order”

    Doctrine and Covenants 28:1–7, 15 can help the children understand that everyone can be guided by the Holy Ghost, but revelation for the Church will always be given through the prophet.

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 27–28: “All Things Must Be Done in Order”)

    Ask the children to play “follow the leader”—one child could stand at the front of the room, and the rest of the children could imitate whatever he or she does. This could lead into a discussion about why we follow the prophet. You could show a picture of Jesus Christ and emphasize that we follow the prophet because he follows the Savior and speaks the Savior’s words.

    For additional ideas about prophets, see the following resources:

    Why was Oliver Cowdery’s mission to the Lamanites significant?

    Doctrine and Covenants 28:8–9

    One purpose of the Book of Mormon is “that the Lamanites might come to the knowledge of their fathers, and that they might know the promises of the Lord” (Doctrine and Covenants 3:20). This was consistent with promises the Lord made to many Book of Mormon prophets (see, for example, 1 Nephi 13:34–41; Enos 1:11–18; Helaman 15:12–13). Early Church members considered the American Indians to be descendants of the Book of Mormon people. (The official position of the Church today is that the Lamanites “are among the ancestors of the American Indians” [introduction to the Book of Mormon].)

    To read more about Oliver’s mission to nearby American Indian tribes, see “A Mission to the Lamanites” (Revelations in Context, 45–49). What does this mission teach you about the Lord and His work?

    Additional Resources:

    Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 27-28”

    Feb 3 2021

    Doctrine and Covenants 10-11

    Posted on by

    When I pray always, Heavenly Father will bless me.

    Doctrine and Covenants 10:5

    Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves or their families praying at different times and places, such as in church, before school, or at bedtime. Explain that praying always can mean praying often throughout the day. How can we pray even when we are around other people, such as at school or with our friends?

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 20–26: “Ye Are the Children of the Covenant”

    • Ask the children to show you what they do when they pray. What do they do with their arms? their heads? their eyes? Explain that sometimes we want to talk to Heavenly Father, but we can’t kneel or close our eyes. What can we do? Read to the children from 3 Nephi 20:1: “[Jesus] commanded them that they should not cease to pray in their hearts.” Tell the children how you pray in your heart.
    • Draw a mouth and a heart on the board. Ask the children to point to the mouth and tell you some things they say when they pray. Then ask them to point to the heart, and explain that we can say those same things in our hearts. Testify that Heavenly Father knows our feelings and thoughts.
    Friend January 2019

    Doctrine and Covenants 10:1–33

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”

    Satan would prefer that we forget he exists—or that we at least fail to recognize his attempts to influence us (see 2 Nephi 28:22–23). But the Lord’s words in Doctrine and Covenants 10 reveal that Satan is in constant, active opposition to God’s work. As you read verses 1–33, identify how Satan sought to destroy God’s work in Joseph Smith’s time (see also verses 62–63). What similarities do you see with the ways Satan works today? You could ask the Lord to help you see how Satan may be tempting you. What do you learn from section 10 that can help you resist Satan’s efforts?

    Friend February 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”

    The Lord’s “wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil.”

    Doctrine and Covenants 10:34–52

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”

    As the translation of the Book of Mormon progressed, a question naturally arose: What should Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery do about those pages of the translation that had been lost? The logical thing might be to go back and retranslate that portion, but the Lord could see something that they could not—wicked men were plotting to alter the words on those pages to cast doubt on Joseph’s inspired work. God had a plan to thwart Satan’s efforts and compensate for what was lost. This plan was put into motion thousands of years earlier when the prophet Nephi felt inspired to create a second record that covered the same time period. Later, Mormon was inspired to include this record in the Book of Mormon “for a wise purpose” known to the Lord (see Words of Mormon 1:3–7).

    Liahona February 2021 “How Does the Lord’s Wisdom Bless our Lives?” Take a look at this time line to see how the Lord had compensated for the pages He knew would be lost.

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”

    More than 2,400 years in advance, the Lord prepared to compensate for the lost pages of the Book of Mormon (see 1 Nephi 9).The record that God prepared to replace the lost manuscript is now found in 1 Nephi through Omni. How have the stories and teachings in this record [helped bless your life]?

    Faith in Jesus Christ

    Doctrine and Covenants 10:55-70

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”

    Invite family members to find or mark phrases that begin with “I am” or “I will.” What do we learn from the “I am” phrases about who Jesus Christ is and what He is like? What do we learn from the “I will” phrases about what He does? Encourage family members to share how these truths strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ.

    If I ask of God, I will receive.

    Doctrine and Covenants 11

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”

    Several of Joseph Smith’s family members and friends asked him to seek the Lord’s will on their behalf. Joseph was happy to do so, but the Lord was also willing to give them personal revelation. In Doctrine and Covenants 11, a revelation that Joseph received for his older brother Hyrum, the Lord said, “I will impart unto you of my Spirit, … and then shall ye know … all things whatsoever you desire of me” (Doctrine and Covenants 11:13–14). What is the Lord trying to tell you about personal revelation?

    The Holy Ghost leads me to do good.

    Doctrine and Covenants 11:12–13

    Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”

    Reading these verses can help your family members recognize when the Spirit is communicating with them. You could shine a flashlight on the floor and invite a family member to move to where the light is shining. How is this like following the guidance of the Holy Ghost? What personal experiences could you share?

    Ensign July 2019 “Family Study Fun”(Acts 1:1–8, 15–26; 2:1–42; 4:1–13, 31–33) Finding someone in need by listening to the still small voice.

    1. Scatter pillows, couch cushions, and other soft objects throughout the room.
    2. Assign someone in the family to be the “person in need” at the end of the obstacle course.
    3. Place a blindfold on a member of the family and assign someone else to whisper directions into the person’s ear to guide them safely through the course to the person in need.

    Discussion: When was a time you felt directed by the Holy Ghost to help someone else? How did you recognize those promptings?

    Sing a song about the guidance of the Holy Ghost, such as “Listen, Listen” (Children’s Songbook, 107). Ask the children what the song teaches them about how the Holy Ghost helps us.

    I need to know the gospel so I can help others find the truth.

    Doctrine and Covenants 11:15–26

    Even before the Book of Mormon had been translated, Hyrum Smith was anxious to preach the gospel. As you read the Lord’s response to his desires, consider what it means to you to “obtain [God’s] word” (verse 21). How does obtaining God’s word help you serve in the Church?

    Consider making a list of the things the Lord told Hyrum Smith to do so that he would be ready to share the gospel. What should we work on as a family?

    21 Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word, and then shall your tongue be loosed; then, if you desire, you shall have my Spirit and my word, yea, the power of God unto the convincing of men.

    27 Behold, I speak unto all who have good desires, and have thrust in their sickle to reap.

    Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “The Lord Told Hyrum to Study the Scriptures”

    Sing together a song about sharing the gospel, such as “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 168). What does this song teach about how we can be missionaries every day?

    Additional Resources

    Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 10-11”