Tag Archives: primary

Jun 23 2021

Doctrine and Covenants 67-70

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Attention Activity

Collect all the copies of the Doctrine and Covenants in the room and put them in a stack near you on the table or floor. Write on the chalkboard Doctrine and Covenants 43:8. Ask the children to discuss this verse among themselves and prepare to tell you what the verse is about. Do not let them use their scriptures as they do this. After a few moments, ask them if they are ready to tell you about the verse.

  • Why can’t you tell me what the verse is about?

Return the children’s copies of the Doctrine and Covenants, and give copies to the children who have not brought their own. Have all the children look up the verse listed on the chalkboard and follow along as you read it.

Explain that the early Church members were instructed to teach each other about the revelations the Lord had given them through the Prophet Joseph Smith, but the Church members did not have a book where they could read the revelations. The Lord commanded the Church members to publish the revelations in a book so that they would be able to read and study them. We now call this book the Doctrine and Covenants. (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”)

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

From 1828 to 1831, the Prophet Joseph Smith received many revelations from the Lord, including divine counsel for individuals, instructions on governing the Church, and inspiring visions of the latter days. But many of the Saints hadn’t read them. The revelations weren’t yet published, and the few available copies were handwritten on loose sheets that were circulated among members and carried around by missionaries.

Then, in November 1831, Joseph called a council of Church leaders to discuss publishing the revelations. After seeking the Lord’s will, these leaders made plans to publish the Book of Commandments—the precursor to today’s Doctrine and Covenants. Soon everyone would be able to read for themselves the word of God revealed through a living prophet, vivid evidence that “the keys of the mysteries of the kingdom of our Savior are again entrusted to man.” For these and many other reasons, Saints then and now consider these revelations to be “worth … the riches of the whole Earth” (Doctrine and Covenants 70, section heading).

Scripture Stories: Doctrine and Covenants “Chapter 23: The Doctrine and Covenants” Images and Video

The Doctrine and Covenants Contains Revelations from God.

Doctrine and Covenants 67

William E. McLellin Tries to Write a Revelation

During one of these conferences, some of the Church leaders at the conference complained about the language of some of the revelations that Joseph Smith had received. They thought they could write better revelations. In response the Lord gave the revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 67, testifying that the revelations Joseph Smith had received were true (see D&C 67:4) and challenging anyone who would like to try to write a revelation to do so (see D&C 67:5–8). William E. McLellin took this challenge and tried to write a revelation. Joseph Smith recorded that Brother McLellin thought he was smart enough to write a revelation, but he could not do it. The Prophet said that it is “an awful [great and important] responsibility to write in the name of the Lord” (History of the Church,1:226). All those present who saw Brother McLellin’s failure were strengthened in their testimony that the revelations Joseph Smith had received were true and had come from the Lord.

For the Strength of Youth June 2021 “The Prophet’s Words Are True”

Why couldn’t William E. McLellin write a revelation? Who was the only person authorized to receive revelation for the Church at that time? (D&C 28:2.) Who receives revelation for the Church today? (The living prophet.) (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”)

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Find pictures of the prophet on the Church’s website or in the Church magazines. Help your little ones say, “The prophet teaches God’s word.”

Explain to the children that the Church leaders at this time decided to publish their testimony of the revelations Joseph Smith had received. When they did, one of the leaders, Levi Hancock, wrote next to his name, “Never to be erased” (see “Testimony, circa 2 November 1831,” Revelation Book 1, 121, josephsmithpapers.org). Why might Levi Hancock have wanted his name “never to be erased” from the published testimony? Give the children an opportunity to write their testimonies of what they’ve learned so far in the Doctrine and Covenants. (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”)

What Makes the Doctrine and Covenants Similar and Unique to Other Standard Works

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”

Show the children each of the standard works one at a time, and as you hold each one up share a little about how we got it. For example:

The Bible tells us about prophecies of Jesus Christ and about the Savior’s life and teachings when he was on the earth.

The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ and tells us about the Savior’s dealings with the people on the American continent.

The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of revelations from Jesus Christ for the latter days, or our times.

The Pearl of Great Price gives us teachings and testimonies of Jesus Christ from ancient prophets as well as Joseph Smith’s history and testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Game

Give each child four small pieces of paper, and show the children how to fold each piece in half so it resembles a book. Help the children label their “books” Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.Ask the following questions and have the children hold up the appropriate paper “book” to answer each question:

Which book tells the most about the dealings of the Lord with his people in the Holy Land, beginning with the creation of the earth? (Bible.)

Which book tells about Jesus Christ’s visit to the American continent? (Book of Mormon.)

Which book tells the most about Jesus Christ’s birth and life on earth? (Bible.)

Which book contains a record of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ’s appearance to Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove? (Pearl of Great Price.)

Which book contains revelations on how the Church should be established in the latter days, given by Jesus Christ to Joseph Smith? (Doctrine and Covenants.) Remind the children that each of the standard works is a testament of Jesus Christ and that we should study all of the scriptures.

Hold up the Doctrine and Covenants, share with the children what makes this book of scripture unique (for example, it contains revelations given in our day).

Game

On cards or small pieces of paper, make two copies each of simple pictures or words representing principles or events discussed in the Doctrine and Covenants, such as the baptism ordinance, sacrament prayers, word of wisdom, Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood by John the Baptist, and Priesthood leadership organization of the Church (prophets, apostles, bishops, etc. Place the cards or papers face down in a grid on the floor or table. Let the children take turns turning over a pair of cards to try to make a match. If a child makes a match, have him or her give one reason why it is important for that principle to be part of the restored church. If a child does not make a match, have him or her return the cards to their original positions so another child can have a turn.

I Can Be “True and Faithful.”

Doctrine and Covenants 69:1–2

Story

Oliver Cowdery was assigned to take approximately seventy revelations to Independence, Missouri, where William W. Phelps had a printing press. Oliver also took money to help the Saints in Missouri. Because Oliver would be traveling through unsettled country, the Lord told John Whitmer to go with him for safety (see D&C 69:1–2).

When Oliver Cowdery needed to travel to Missouri, the Lord called John Whitmer, someone who was “true and faithful” (verse 1), to go with him. How can the children be true and faithful like John Whitmer?

  • Tell the children that when the Lord sent Oliver Cowdery to Missouri, He said that someone “true and faithful” (verse 1) should go with him, so He also sent John Whitmer. What does it mean to be true and faithful? How can we make sure we are true and faithful so that the Lord can use us to bless others?
  • Invite a few children to tell about someone they know who they think is “true and faithful.” How do they know that person is true and faithful? Help them see that the Lord trusted John Whitmer because he was, at this time, true and faithful (see Doctrine and Covenants 69:1–2). Sing together a song that encourages the children to be true and faithful like the Savior, such as “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”)

Why is it important to be with people “who will be true and faithful”? (verse 1). When have friends influenced us to make good or bad decisions? How can we be a good influence on others?

Liahona June 2021 “The Godhead and Loving Others”

Follow the Prophet

Oliver Cowdery was appointed to carry the manuscript of the Book of Commandments to Independence, Missouri. The Lord asked John Whitmer to accompany him (see Doctrine and Covenants 69:2).

  1. Pretend that the Lord commanded you to deliver the manuscript of the Book of Commandments (which later became the Doctrine and Covenants). 
  2. What would you need to do to care for this important book?
  3. Think of a time someone trusted you to complete an important task. 
  4. What steps did you take to accomplish the task?

Discussion: Why is it important to follow the direction of Church leaders? How can following our prophet and other Church leaders protect us?

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 22: The Latter-day Revelations Are Published,”

It was a long, cold journey, but in January 1832 Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer arrived safely in Independence. They delivered the revelations to Brother Phelps, who started to set the type to publish them as the Book of Commandments. By July 1833 the first 160 pages of the Book of Commandments had been printed.

Because many Saints were arriving in Missouri, some of the original settlers of the area were uneasy. They began to fear that the Saints would take over the area, elect their own officials, and drive the original settlers off the land. On Saturday, 20 July 1833, four or five hundred people who were against the Saints met in the Independence courthouse. The people formed a mob and demanded that the Saints leave their new homes or be killed. The leaders of the Church in Missouri asked for three months to consult with Joseph Smith, who was in Ohio, but the mob refused this request. The Saints were told they had only fifteen minutes to decide what to do.

Before the fifteen minutes had passed, the mob broke into William W. Phelps’s home, which contained the printing office where the Book of Commandments was being printed. Brother Phelps was not at home. Sister Phelps took her sick baby and her other children and hurried to the woods nearby. Fourteen-year-old Mary Elizabeth Rollins and her twelve-year-old sister, Caroline, watched members of the mob throw the Phelpses’ furniture and other possessions into the street. The mob then threw the press and the type out the window, along with most of the unbound pages of the Book of Commandments. Mary Elizabeth and Caroline courageously decided to save some of the copies, even though Caroline was afraid that the mob would kill them (show the picture of Mary Elizabeth and Caroline saving the Book of Commandments).

The girls ran from their hiding place, gathered up as many pages as they could carry, and ran away. When the mobbers saw them, they shouted for the girls to stop. Mary Elizabeth and Caroline slipped through a hole in a fence and ran into a cornfield. They lay quietly on the ground among the cornstalks, listening to the men searching for them. When the sound of footsteps faded and the girls thought it was safe to leave, they gathered the papers in their arms again and began to find their way out of the field. As they approached an old log stable, they heard sounds. They entered the stable carefully and discovered Sister Phelps and her children making beds from branches so they could hide for the night in the stable. Knowing Brother Phelps would know what to do with the pages, the girls gave them to Sister Phelps. Later some of these original sheets of the Book of Commandments were bound into books, and Mary Elizabeth and Caroline were each given a copy. They treasured these books for the rest of their lives.

Friend June 2021 “The Rollins Sisters Save the Day!”

Friend June 2017 “The Book of Commandments” Two sisters save the printed book of commandments from a mob.

Doctrine and Covenants 70:1–4.

The Lord gave certain elders the responsibility to oversee the publishing of the revelations. Even though we do not have that specific responsibility, in what sense could we be considered “stewards over the revelations and commandments”? (verse 3). (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 67–70”)

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

When our Church leaders speak by inspiration, they speak “the word of the Lord.”

Doctrine and Covenants 68:3–4

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

When the Lord’s servants speak by the power of the Holy Ghost, their words are the will, mind, word, and voice of the Lord (see verse 4). Knowing this truth can help the children want to listen to and follow their teachings.

  • Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 68:3–4 in small groups and share with each other what they learn from these verses. Invite the children to write something they learned on the board. Why is this an important truth to know?
  • After reading Doctrine and Covenants 68:3–4 together, give the children copies of several recent messages from general conference. Invite them to find in the messages truths that the Lord taught us through His servants.

Additional Resources

Saints, 1:140–43

Jun 23 2021

Talents: Lesson Ideas

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Table of Contents

Everyone has Talents

Friend November 2018 “What’s on Your Mind” Someone who feels talentless asks the Friend magazine how they can find something they are good at.

The Friend responds by saying that God has given everyone talents. “Here are just a few of the gifts Heavenly Father might have given you. Circle the ones you have already. Underline ones you might want to practice. What others can you think of?”

Friend March 2022 “Overcoming Your Challenges” President Dallin H. Oaks discusses the challenges he faced growing up, such as having his father die when he was seven, or being bullied and made fun of by other kids because he couldn’t spell or do math very well. Heavenly Father and Dallin’s family helped him, he found things he was good at, and things got better. President Oaks wants the children to know that Heavenly Father will help them and to not give up because we all have different gifts. (Coloring page “I Can Overcome Challenges”)

Spiritual Gifts/Talents

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

Heavenly Father gives me spiritual gifts.

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”).

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Heavenly Father Blesses Me with His Gifts.

Doctrine and Covenants 46:13–26

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”

In Kirtland, many of the new members that Parley P. Pratt and the other missionaries had baptized had plenty of zeal but little experience or direction in how to live the gospel. They had been drawn to the restored gospel by the promise of marvelous manifestations of the Spirit. Soon, some unusual expressions of worship—including falling to the ground or writhing like a snake—were introduced into their Church meetings. Many found it hard to discern which manifestations were of the Spirit and which were not. Seeing the confusion, Joseph Smith prayed for help. The Lord revealed that spiritual manifestations are real and clarified what they are—gifts from a loving Heavenly Father, “given for the benefit of those who love [Him] and keep all [His] commandments” (Doctrine and Covenants 46:9).

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.

Friend May 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Talent Time:

  • Sing “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79).
  • Heavenly Father gave each of us spiritual gifts (see Doctrine and Covenants 46:11–26). That means He gave us special talents. Everyone is unique and important to Heavenly Father!
  • Think about what gifts you have. Then put on a family talent show! Share the gifts Heavenly Father has given you with others.

Latter Day Kids “Spiritual Gifts” Videos and lesson ideas

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” )

Pinterest

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.

Pinterest

,

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?”

(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.

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.

Heavenly Father Gives Me 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″)

Friend December 2022 “Talent Match”

Friend December 2022 “Gifts to Share” Sometimes we don’t value or share our gifts. Maybe we are afraid that they are not as perfect as we would like. But if we don’t share our gifts, we miss a chance to bless God’s children. We miss a chance to feel God’s love.

Family night talent show ideas Friend May 2016

Friend September 2015
Friend September 2015 handout

Develop Your Talents

I can use the gifts God has given me.

Matthew 25:14–30

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 Young children are discovering their gifts and abilities. Help them understand that these gifts and abilities come from Heavenly Father.

  • Bring several coins to use as you tell the parable of the talents, found in Matthew 25:14–30. You could ask three children to represent the three servants. Explain that in Jesus’s day, talents referred to money, but today talents can mean our gifts and abilities.

For the Strength of Youth February 2023 “The Talents” Parable of the talents

  • Ask the children to name ways their parents, siblings, teachers, or friends have helped them. What talents do these people have that help them serve others?

Red Crystal

  • Write a small note to the children telling each of them about the gifts or abilities you notice in them. As you share with each of the children the gifts you see in them, encourage them to improve their gifts and use them to serve others.

Friend December 2022 “Gifts to Share” Sometimes we don’t value or share our gifts. Maybe we are afraid that they are not as perfect as we would like. But if we don’t share our gifts, we miss a chance to bless God’s children. We miss a chance to feel God’s love.

Friend December 2022 “Talent Match”

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

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

New Testament Coloring Book “Parable of the Talents”

“Lesson 26: Parable of the Talents,” Primary 7: New Testament 

  1. Ask the children to name as many talents as they can think of; list the talents on the chalkboard as they are mentioned. Encourage the children to include character traits such as being a good listener, loving others, being cheerful, and so on.
  2. Give the children each a piece of paper and a pencil and ask them to make a list of their own talents. Tell them not to let others in the class see the list. Then ask the class members to each name a talent for every other child in the class. As each child’s talents are mentioned, suggest that the child add to his or her list any talents identified by the other children that are not already on the list. Then ask the following questions:

See additional story ideas at Talents

New Testament Stories “The Talents”

New Testament stories [art]
Jesus told His disciples a story about a man who gave his servants some talents. A talent was a large amount of money.
New Testament stories [art]
The man gave one servant five talents. He gave another servant two talents. He gave a third servant one talent. Then the man went on a journey.
New Testament stories [art]
The servant with five talents worked hard. He earned five more talents. He now had ten talents.
New Testament stories [art]
The servant with two talents also worked hard. He earned two more talents. He now had four talents.
New Testament stories [art]
The servant with one talent buried it in the ground. He was afraid he would lose it. He did not work to earn any more talents.
New Testament stories [art]
When the man came back, he asked the servants what they had done with his talents.
New Testament stories [art]
The first servant brought him ten talents. The man was happy. He made the servant a leader over many things and told him to be joyful.
New Testament stories [art]
The second servant brought the man four talents. This also made the man happy. He made the second servant a leader over many things and told him to be joyful.
New Testament stories [art]
The third servant gave the man back the talent he had buried. The man was not happy. He said the servant was lazy. He should have worked hard to earn more talents.
New Testament stories [art]
The man took the talent from the third servant and gave it to the first servant. Then he sent the lazy servant away. The man in the story is like Jesus. We are like the servants. Jesus will judge how we each use the gifts we have been given.

Latter Day Kids “The Parable of the Talents” Lesson ideas

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

For the Strength of Youth February 2023 “The Talents” Parable of the talents

Friend March 2019 “What’s on Your Mind” A boy writes the Friend and says that his friends think that the things he likes to do are “girl” stuff. He wants to know if it’s true. The Friend responds by saying, “There’s not one list of talents for girls and another one for boys. Our interests and talents make us unique.” Activity: Use the clues to fill out the chart to find out what each person is interested in.

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.

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.

Jun 14 2021

Doctrine and Covenants 64-66

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Building Zion

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

In the sweltering heat of August 1831, several elders were traveling back to Kirtland after surveying the land of Zion in Missouri as directed by the Lord. It was not a pleasant journey. The travelers—Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, Ezra Booth, and others—were hot and weary, and tensions soon turned into quarrels. It may have seemed like building Zion, a city of love, unity, and peace, was going to take a long time.

Fortunately, building Zion—in Missouri in 1831 or in our hearts and wards today—doesn’t require us to be perfect. Instead, “of you it is required to forgive,” the Lord said (Doctrine and Covenants 64:10). He requires “the heart and a willing mind” (verse 34). And He requires patience and diligence, for Zion is built on the foundation of “small things,” accomplished by those who do not become “weary in well-doing” (verse 33).

Jesus Christ Asks Me to Forgive Others.

As you read Doctrine and Covenants 64:1–11, think about a time when the Lord forgave you. You might also think about someone you need to forgive.

Doctrine and Covenants 64:7–10

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

  • Read the phrase “ye ought to forgive one another” (Doctrine and Covenants 64:9), and ask the children what it means to forgive someone. (As people forgive each other, they treat one another with Christlike love and have no bad feelings toward those who have offended them. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Forgive,”)) To help them understand, share a few simple examples (include some family examples) Help them role-play these examples to practice saying sorry and forgiving each other by acting it out.Read Doctrine and Covenants 64:10 slowly to the children, and have them shake hands with another child when they hear the word “forgive.” Share your testimony of the peace and happiness that come when we forgive others.

The Lord wants me to forgive everyone.

As these verses show, even disciples of Jesus Christ sometimes have trouble forgiving one another. Consider how you will help the children understand the Lord’s command “to forgive all.” (Clarify that forgiving does not mean allowing people to hurt us; they should always tell a trusted adult if someone hurts them.)

  • Invite the children to imagine that they were asked to teach a younger sibling about forgiving others. How would they do it? Invite them to read Doctrine and Covenants 64:7–10 in pairs and to find phrases they would use in their teaching. They could also practice teaching one another.
  • Why do you think the Lord commands us “to forgive all”? (verse 10). Think of an analogy that might help the children understand how we are “afflicted” when we don’t forgive (verse 8). For example, show the children a bag of mud or dirt; ask them to imagine that someone threw mud on them. How might failing to forgive be like saving the mud and always carrying it with us? Why would it be better to throw the mud away? Help the children think of other analogies that teach why it is important to forgive.

“Pockets Full of Rocks” (February 2014 Friend)
A humorous poem about a man who carries rocks around to remind him of all things people have done to him.

Family relationships provide many opportunities to learn to forgive. Maybe family members could talk about how forgiving each other has blessed your family. How has the Savior helped us forgive each other? How are we “afflicted” (verse 8) when we don’t forgive others? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”

Friend March 2015 “Family Fun Time”

Friend March 2015

Friend August 2015 “You Can Repent and Forgive”

Sing a song about forgiveness, such as “Help Me, Dear Father” (Children’s Songbook, 99). What does this song teach us about forgiving others? How does Heavenly Father help us forgive others?

For additional story and activity ideas see Forgiveness and Resources for Teaching Children “Forgiveness”

I Can Obey Jesus 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.)

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 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”

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.

Zion Shall Be “An Ensign Unto the People.”

Doctrine and Covenants 64:41–42

An ensign is “a flag or standard around which people gather in a unity of purpose or identity”(Guide to the Scriptures, “Ensign,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How has Zion—or the Lord’s Church—been like an ensign to you? What do these verses teach you about how you can help the Church be an ensign where you live? Doctrine and Covenants 64:41–43. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”)

A standard is something established by authority… as a model or example

41 For, behold, I say unto you that Zion shall flourish, and the glory of the Lord shall be upon her; 42 And she shall be an ensign unto the people, and there shall come unto her out of every nation under heaven.

Friend March 2011 “Bright Idea”

Bring a flashlight or a picture of the sun, and compare light to the power of a righteous example. Just as the light from a flashlight or the sun can help us see a path we need to follow, a righteous example shows us what to do in order to follow Heavenly Father. What can the children do to be a good example to others? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Alma 39-42”

Friend April 2018 “A High-Five Example”Students in a special needs class we’re trying to give Lily’s classmates high fives as they walked by, but nobody did it until Lily gave them all high fives then everyone behind her did it.

I Can Help Prepare the World to Receive Jesus Christ.

Doctrine and Covenants 65

The mission of the Church—God’s kingdom on earth—is to prepare the world for the return of the Savior. The children you teach are an important part of this mission. What can you do to help them participate?

Ponder ways you can “make known [God’s] wonderful works among the people” (verse 4).

Additional teaching resources can be found at Jesus: Second Coming and Resources for Teaching Children: Second Coming

The Lord Knows Who I Am and Loves Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 66

William E. McLellin had five specific questions for the Lord. Joseph Smith received answers to them in a revelation even though he did not know what William’s questions were. This experience could help you teach the children that God is aware of them and can answer their questions.

  • Tell about how the Lord answered William E. McLellin’s questions through a revelation from the Prophet Joseph Smith (see Doctrine and Covenants 66, section heading). Testify that Heavenly Father knows us and wants to help us. Ask the children to share how they know that God loves them.
  • Read to the children Doctrine and Covenants 66:4. Tell the children about a time when the Lord showed you what He wanted you to do. Read the verse again, this time inserting the name of one of the children. Repeat for each of the children.
Friend April 2018 (recopy image-blurry)

Friend March 2018 “Heavenly Father Listens” Elder Clayton felt the love of God as a teen when he prayed about some worries. Heavenly Father loves us and is interested in our lives just like a parent would be. (Activity page included: Find the hearts in the room of the girl who is praying.)

Avoid Being Cumbered by Things that Aren’t of Eternal Value.

Doctrine and Covenants 66:10

How can your family follow the Lord’s counsel to “seek not to be cumbered,” or burdened with many things to do? You could talk about the story of Mary and Martha (see Luke 10:38–42), and discuss how your family can keep from being cumbered by things that aren’t of eternal value. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 64–66”)

Ask the children to try to do two tasks at once, such as reciting an article of faith while writing down the names of all of the children in the class. Ask them why it was hard to focus on the first task.  Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 30–36”

How do we decide what our priorities are? (Ideas might include remembering what the purpose of earth life is, asking ourselves how our choice helps us toward gaining eternal life, and praying to have guidance in making our choices.)

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.

New Era July 2020 “Making Good Use of Your Time” Object Lesson: When you put the Lord first, there’s room for the rest.

Additional Resources

Jun 8 2021

Doctrine and Covenants 63

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Signs Come by Faith and the Will of God.

Doctrine and Covenants 63:9–10

Ezra Booth was converted to the Church after seeing Joseph Smith heal Elsa Johnson’s arm (which she hadn’t been able to use for two years). But Ezra later lost his faith, and he became critical of the Prophet. Doctrine and Covenants 63 contains warnings against trying to build our faith on signs, such as miraculous healings, rather than on spiritual confirmation of truth. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”)

Invite the children to draw a house sitting on top of a rectangle and another house sitting on the point of a triangle. Tell the children that the houses represent our faith and testimonies. Ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 63:9–10 and Helaman 5:12. Then have them write in the rectangle what we should build our faith on and in the triangle what we should not build our faith on. Point out that the rectangle provides a solid place to build but the triangle is not safe and secure. Why is it important to build our faith on Jesus Christ rather than on other things? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”)

Explain that a miracle is something God does to show His power and bless our lives (see Bible Dictionary, “Miracles”)You might also consider why some people receive signs “for the good of men unto [God’s] glory” (verse 12) and others receive them “unto … condemnation” (verse 11). Maybe your family members could talk about miracles that have strengthened their faith, including experiences from your family or your family history. How did they exercise the faith needed to receive these miracles? What does Doctrine and Covenants 63:7–12 teach about the relationship between faith and miracles? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 60–62”)

As I Keep the Commandments, God will Teach Me His Truths.

Doctrine and Covenants 63:23

The “mysteries of [God’s] kingdom” are available only to those who keep God’s commandments. This is why they are mysteries to many people. This principle will help the children as they seek truth.

  • Write on the board If I keep the commandments, then , and ask the children to write on the board different ways to finish the sentence. Ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 63:23 and find something they can add to their list. Show the children a glass of water, and ask them how the truths of the gospel are like water to us. (As water is essential to sustain physical life, the Savior and His teachings (living water) are essential for eternal life. Guide to the Scriptures)
  • Show the children a picture of a well, and ask them to draw a picture of one. After reading together Doctrine and Covenants 63:23, help them think of truths they know about the gospel, and invite them to write these truths around their wells. How are these truths like “living water”? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63)

A mystery is something people don’t understand. He gives us commandments and scriptures to show us how to gain eternal life and bring salvation to our souls.

Explain that the Holy Ghost will also teach us and guide us, but to receive his help we must do things that will invite him to continue to be with us. Make two columns on the chalkboard. Label one Invites the Spirit and the other Offends the Spirit. Help the children understand that the Spirit (the Holy Ghost) is very important in our lives. Explain that good things invite the Spirit into our lives while bad things offend the Spirit and cause him to leave (see Moroni 7:12–13). Ask the children to think of actions to list in each column, such as listening to good music and being kind under Invites the Spirit and quarreling and being dishonest under Offends the Spirit. Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 7: Joseph Smith Translates the Gold Plates,”  

I Will Be Resurrected.

Doctrine and Covenants 63:49

Either now or in the future, the children you teach will be comforted to know that because of the Savior’s Atonement, all who have died will be resurrected one day.

Friend April 2021 “I Will See My Brother Again” During Primary, Isabella feels the spirit and knows she will see her brother again.

Jesus Death and Resurrection Scripture Story

Cutouts

Additional teaching ideas can be found at Resurrection and Resources for Teaching Children “Resurrection”

I Should Not Take the Name of God in Vain.

Doctrine and Covenants 63:58–64

The children you teach may hear others using the name of God in irreverent and profane ways. How can you help them understand that the names of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ “must be spoken with care”? (Doctrine and Covenants 63:64).

Friend August 2000 “Sharing Time: A Beautiful Tapestry” Ask several children how their parents chose their names. Say their names with varying voice inflections—excitement, annoyance, love, and so on. Ask how hearing their names said different ways made them feel. Display several names of Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father. Remind the children that they are keeping their baptismal covenant as they speak reverently of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and never swear or use crude words.

“Should I Keep Reading?” (October 2019 Liahona and Friend)
Brooklyn P., age 9, shares how she decided to stop reading a book after the author repeatedly used the Lord’s name in vain. 

“Take Not the Name of God in Vain” (November 2004 Friend)
President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) shares how his mother once washed his mouth out with soap to teach him not to take the Lord’s name in vain.

I Should Treat Sacred Things with Reverence.

Doctrine and Covenants 63:64

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”

We live in a day when sacred things are often disregarded or even mocked. You can help the children develop a sense of reverence for sacred things.

  • Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 63:64: “That which cometh from above is sacred.” Ask them to think of an item that is special to them, such as a favorite toy or book. How do they take care of it and protect it? (or show your family a precious family treasure. How do we treat this item differently than other things that aren’t as valuable?) Help them think of things that are special—or sacred—to Heavenly Father. How should we speak of these things? How should we treat them?

Latter Day Kids “Reverence for Sacred Things” Lesson ideas

Heavenly Father has given us many gifts—like temples, scriptures, our bodies, and our Savior. He wants us to treat and talk about these gifts with respect and reverence. When we do this, we show Heavenly Father we are grateful for the gifts He has given us. Help the children think of ways they can show reverence for sacred things.

  • Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”

    • Friend June 2021 “Respect for Sacred Things” The word sacred means holy and special. Heavenly Father wants us to show respect for the sacred things He has given. (Cut out the cards of sacred things and put them face down.Take turns picking a card. Tell why the sacred thing on the card is important to you. For each card, choose one option from the “Ways to Show Respect” and talk about how you can show respect for that sacred thing.)

    Sing “Reverence Is Love” (Children’s Songbook, 31).

    Additional Resources

    Mar 26 2021

    Reverence: Lesson Ideas

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    Table of Contents

    What is Reverence?

    Friend October 2017 “For Parents of Little Ones” Teaching little ones what reverence means.

    Why Should I Be Reverent?

    It Shows Respect & Love for Heavenly Father and Jesus

    Friend November 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Margo wants to know why they need to be reverent.

    Friend November 2024 “I Can Follow Jesus by Being Reverent”

    So I Am Ready to Learn

    Friend January 2016

    Friend January 2016

    When Should I Be Reverent

    Friend April 2022 “Reverence Matching”

    Friend May 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus by Being Reverent”

    How Can I Be Reverent

    Friend April 2022 “How Can I Be More Reverent?”

    I Can Be Reverent

    Friend November 2016

    Friend November 2016

    I Can Be Reverent in Holy Places.

    Exodus 3:1–5

    The Lord asked Moses to remove his shoes at the burning bush as a sign of respect and reverence. How can you use this account to teach the children about reverence?

    Gospel Art Picture: “Moses and the Burning Bush”

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6

    • Read Exodus 3:1–5, and explain that Moses showed reverence by removing his shoes. What do we do to show reverence at church? Sing a song about reverence, such as “Reverence Is Love” (Children’s Songbook, 31). Help the children identify words in the song that teach us how we show reverence. Why does the Lord want us to be reverent? Older Children: Ask each child to write and share a definition of reverence based on the lyrics.
    • Show some pictures of situations where we should be reverent and some where we don’t need to be reverent, such as a sacrament meeting, a prayer, a park, and a birthday party. Ask the children to sort the pictures to show where we should be reverent.
    Friend January 2017
    Friend September 2015
    Friend September 2015
    Friend February 2018
    • Invite the children to draw pictures of themselves, and point to their pictures as you discuss ways they can be reverent with different parts of their bodies, such as with their eyes, ears, mouths, hands, and feet.
    Friend Oct 1982
    Friend Oct 1982 use figure to demonstrate ways different parts of the body can be irreverent and reverent
    • Read Exodus 3:1–5, and ask the children to summarize these verses in their own words. What can we do to show reverence in holy places, such as at church or in the temple? Help the children create “reverence bags” to take home that contain strips of paper with ideas about how to be reverent. Invite them to share these ideas with their families.
    Friend October 2016
    Friend October 2016
    • Use the picture Jesus Cleansing the Temple (Gospel Art Book, no. 51) to tell the story in Matthew 21:12–13. How was Moses’s attitude in Exodus 3:1–5 different from the moneychangers’ attitude? Why does the Savior want us to treat sacred things with reverence?

    Friend September 2022 “For Older Kids” Practice keeping things clean

    When Moses approached the burning bush, the Lord told him to remove his shoes as a sign of reverence. How can we show reverence for sacred places? For example, what can we do to make our home a sacred place where the Lord’s Spirit can dwell? How can we show more reverence in other sacred places?(Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 1–6”)

    Old Testament Coloring Book “Moses and the Burning Bush”

    I Should Treat Sacred Things with Reverence.

    Doctrine and Covenants 63:64

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”

    We live in a day when sacred things are often disregarded or even mocked. You can help the children develop a sense of reverence for sacred things.

    • Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 63:64: “That which cometh from above is sacred.” Ask them to think of an item that is special to them, such as a favorite toy or book. How do they take care of it and protect it? (or show your family a precious family treasure. How do we treat this item differently than other things that aren’t as valuable?) Help them think of things that are special—or sacred—to Heavenly Father. How should we speak of these things? How should we treat them?

    Heavenly Father has given us many gifts—like temples, scriptures, our bodies, and our Savior. He wants us to treat and talk about these gifts with respect and reverence. When we do this, we show Heavenly Father we are grateful for the gifts He has given us. Help the children think of ways they can show reverence for sacred things.

  • Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 63”

    • Friend June 2021 “Respect for Sacred Things” The word sacred means holy and special. Heavenly Father wants us to show respect for the sacred things He has given. (Cut out the cards of sacred things and put them face down.Take turns picking a card. Tell why the sacred thing on the card is important to you. For each card, choose one option from the “Ways to Show Respect” and talk about how you can show respect for that sacred thing.)

    Sing “Reverence Is Love” (Children’s Songbook, 31).

    Feb 12 2021

    The Priesthood is Restored

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    Table of Contents

    John the Baptist restored the Aaronic Priesthood.

    Doctrine & Covenants Section 13 An extract from Joseph Smith’s history recounting the ordination of the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery to the Aaronic Priesthood near Harmony, Pennsylvania, May 15, 1829. The ordination was done by the hands of an angel who announced himself as John, the same that is called John the Baptist in the New Testament. The angel explained that he was acting under the direction of Peter, James, and John, the ancient Apostles, who held the keys of the higher priesthood, which was called the Priesthood of Melchizedek. The promise was given to Joseph and Oliver that in due time this higher priesthood would be conferred upon them. (See section 27:7–8, 12.)

    Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75 Oliver Cowdery serves as scribe in translating the Book of Mormon—Joseph and Oliver receive the Aaronic Priesthood from John the Baptist—They are baptized, ordained, and receive the spirit of prophecy. (Verses 66–75.)

    Doctrine and Covenants 13; Joseph Smith—History 1:68–74

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

    “The Priesthood Is Restored” (February 2013 Friend)
    A brief explanation of how the priesthood was lost from the earth and then restored.

    Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Angels Restore the Priesthood” Watch until 1:26 for the Aaronic Priesthood restoration

    Friend March 2025 “The Priesthood Is Restored”

    Doctrine and Covenant Stories “Joseph and Oliver Are Given the Priesthood” Images and Video

    Friend February 2025 “The Priesthood is Restored”

    Friend February 2021 “A Visit from John the Baptist” Link also includes a video of the story

    Friend February 2017 “Priesthood Restored”

    See also 1:65–68. Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days, Volume 1, The Standard of Truth, 1815–1846

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75: Read together Joseph Smith—History 1:66–72, and invite the children to draw pictures of what these verses describe. Then let the children tell the story using their pictures. (Or divide up the scriptures and have each child draw their scripture. Then, going in order, have each child tell their part using their pictures.)

    Give the children a few minutes to make a list of everything they know about John the Baptist, and then allow them to share what they wrote. Invite the children to work in pairs to read one of the following passages and add it to their list: Matthew 3:13–17; Doctrine and Covenants 13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–72.

    What do you think it means to be a fellow servant with John the Baptist?

    “Awesome!” (May 2017 Friend)
    Robert receives the Aaronic Priesthood and is amazed when he learns where the priesthood came from.

    How can we follow the example of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to find answers to our questions?

    Help the children learn a song about the priesthood, such as “The Priesthood Is Restored” (Children’s Songbook, 89). Invite the children to march around the room as they sing, taking turns holding the picture from this week’s outline.

    Heavenly Father blesses me through the Aaronic Priesthood.

    Doctrine and Covenants 13

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

    • To prompt a discussion about the keys mentioned in Doctrine and Covenants 13, you and your children could look at a set of keys and talk about what keys allow us to do. Maybe you could help them find the word keys in section 13. What other words or phrases in Doctrine and Covenants 13 describe the blessings of the Aaronic Priesthood? Your children could also identify ways Heavenly Father blesses us through the priesthood in the video “Blessings of the Priesthood” (Gospel Library).

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75:

    • Bring a few objects to class, including a key. Display the objects, and ask the children to listen as you read Doctrine and Covenants 13 and to find the object that is mentioned in the scripture. What can we do with a key? (Or, put pictures of a baptism and the sacrament in a container that requires a key to open. Discuss why keys are important, and let the children use the key to open the container. ) Show pictures of things we can do because the Aaronic Priesthood was restored (see this week’s activity page; see also Gospel Art Book, nos. 103–4, 107–8). Tell the children how the priesthood has blessed your life.
    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021

    Come Follow Me Kid

    “What are priesthood keys?” (February 2017 Liahona and Friend) Priesthood keys aren’t keys you can touch or hold in your hand, like car keys. A priesthood key is the authority or permission to act in Heavenly Father’s name. Priesthood keys let Church leaders direct how the priesthood is used on earth.

    New Era May 2012 “Priesthood Keys” Priesthood holders, … need authorization from someone holding keys before performing most ordinances. For example, if Aaronic Priesthood holders hear about a homebound ward member who would like to receive the sacrament at home, they cannot simply go and administer the sacrament to that member because they believe it’s the right thing to do. They must be authorized by the bishop, who holds the keys over the Aaronic Priesthood. And a father who holds the priesthood cannot simply baptize his 8-year-old daughter or ordain his 12-year-old son to the Aaronic Priesthood without first being authorized by the bishop to do so.

    The Aaronic Priesthood “holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism” (D&C 13:1). Through the exercise of this priesthood, the sacrament is prepared, blessed, and administered. 

    Keys of the Ministering of Angels

    President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor in the First Presidency, explained a connection between the Aaronic Priesthood and the ministering of angels in this way:

    “In general, the blessings of spiritual companionship and communication are only available to those who are clean. … Through the Aaronic Priesthood ordinances of baptism and the sacrament, we are cleansed of our sins and promised that if we keep our covenants we will always have His Spirit to be with us. I believe that promise not only refers to the Holy Ghost but also to the ministering of angels, for ‘angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ’ (2 Nephi 32:3). So it is that those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood open the door for all Church members who worthily partake of the sacrament to enjoy the companionship of the Spirit of the Lord and the ministering of angels” (Oct. 1998 general conference [Ensign, Nov. 1998, 39]).

    Righteous mortal men may also be called angels. 2 Nephi 32:2–3 2 Do ye not remember that I said unto you that after ye had received the Holy Ghost ye could speak with the tongue of angels? 3 Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ.

    I can be baptized.

    Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75:

    Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery read about baptism in the Book of Mormon and wanted to know more.

    Show the video “Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Pause the video occasionally to ask the children questions such as “Why did Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery go into the woods?” and “How do you think Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery felt after they were baptized?”

    Friend February 2021 “We Can Be Baptized” Coloring Page

    Friend February 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Share baptism memories from your family. If you haven’t been baptized yet, talk about what you think it will be like!

    See stories, activity ideas, and lesson ideas for baptism here.

    Resources for Teaching Children by Topic: Baptism

    The Holy Ghost can help me understand the scriptures.

    Joseph Smith—History 1:73–74

    Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75:

    After Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were baptized, the Holy Ghost helped them understand the scriptures better. Invite the children to make a bookmark that they can put in their scriptures to remind them to seek the Holy Ghost’s help when they read. Perhaps they could find an inspiring phrase in Joseph Smith—History 1:74 that they could write on their bookmark.

    Additional Resources

    The Red Crystal

    Latter Day Kids “Priesthood Keys” Lesson ideas

    Hebrews 5 provides an opportunity to discuss what priesthood is—the power and authority to act in God’s name—and how it is received.

    Hebrews 5:1–4

    Show the picture Moses Gives Aaron the Priesthood (Gospel Art Book, no. 15) while a child reads Hebrews 5:4. Explain that the Aaronic Priesthood was named after Aaron. Help the children think of duties Aaronic Priesthood holders perform (such as baptizing, blessing and passing the sacrament, and inviting others to come unto Christ; see Doctrine and Covenants 20:46–48, 59). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Hebrews 1–6“ )

    Media Library

    Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Joseph and Oliver Were Baptized”

    Jan 26 2021

    Translating the Gold Plates

    Posted on by
    Church History “Joseph Smith Translates the Gold Plates”

    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.

    Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 6: Joseph Smith Begins to Translate the Gold zPlates”

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

    Discuss the many languages used throughout the world, and explain that the word translate means to change writing or speech from one language to another.

    • What was the language of the writings on the gold plates? (Reformed Egyptian.)

    Explain that usually translators need to understand both of the languages they work with. Joseph Smith, however, had had very little schooling and could not speak or read languages other than English. The reformed Egyptian characters on the plates were very strange to him. As he studied and prayed, the Urim and Thummim helped him understand the characters on the plates. Joseph learned that the process of translation requires faith, hard work, worthiness, patience, and obedience.

    Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Translation 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.

    If someone asked you where the Book of Mormon came from, what would you say? How would you describe God’s involvement in giving us the Book of Mormon?

    Lost 116 Pages

    Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Doctrine and Covenants 3”

    Martin Harris was a respected citizen of Palmyra and successful farmer who was one of only a few people in the area who believed Joseph Smith. Though almost twice his age, Martin was Joseph’s friend and gave him money so he could move to Harmony, Pennsylvania, to translate the Book of Mormon undisturbed. Martin also sacrificed to travel there himself and serve as scribe. As Joseph read out loud from the plates, Martin Harris wrote down the words Joseph read. 

    Martin’s wife, Lucy, was not supportive of his involvement with the Book of Mormon translation. Martin asked Joseph if he could show the first 116 pages of the translation to Lucy as evidence of their work. Joseph prayed about it twice and each time was told not to allow Martin to take the pages.

    Joseph prayed a third time, and the Lord gave permission with strict conditions. Martin took the pages to Palmyra to show them to his wife.

    • Why do you think Joseph did not follow through with the first two responses he received from the Lord?

    The day after Martin left, Emma Smith gave birth to her and Joseph’s first child, a son. Tragically, the infant lived only a few hours, and it seemed Emma might die too. Thankfully, Emma’s health started improving after a couple weeks. Though Joseph did not want to leave her side, Emma urged him to travel to Palmyra and inquire about the manuscript.

    When Joseph arrived at his parents’ home, they invited Martin to join them for breakfast. Martin didn’t come for more than four hours. When he finally arrived and sat down, he mournfully exclaimed, “I have lost my soul!” He had not followed the strict guidelines and had lost the manuscript.

    “Oh, my God, my God. All is lost!” Joseph said. “Must I return to my wife with such a tale? And how shall I appear before the Lord?”

    After Joseph returned to Harmony, Moroni appeared and took the plates from him. (See Saints, 1:50–54.)

    Shortly after this experience, the Lord spoke to Joseph Smith, chastising him and giving him words of comfort.

    Video and Images from Doctrine and Covenants Stories

    Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 6: Joseph Smith Begins to Translate the Gold Plates”
    Explain that even though Martin Harris lost the 116 pages of translation, he repented and went on to make important contributions to the Church. He was not permitted to assist Joseph further in the translation of the gold plates, but later he sold part of his farm to help pay for the printing of the Book of Mormon. He was one of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon and testified of the truthfulness of the book throughout his life. Show the children “The Testimony of Three Witnesses,” printed at the front of the Book of Mormon.

    Explain that the Lord told Joseph that Satan had influenced some wicked people
    to take the pages. These people intended to change the words so people would
    not believe the Book of Mormon (see D&C 10:10–19). Joseph was told not to
    retranslate the first portion of the plates (see D&C 10:30–31). Because the Lord
    knows all things, he knew that this incident would happen. He had therefore
    commanded the ancient prophet Mormon to write a similar account of what
    was included in the 116 pages in another part of the gold plates (see Words
    of Mormon 1:3–7). Joseph translated this part instead of retranslating the lost
    part (see D&C 10:38–42). Joseph learned that Satan and wicked people could
    not stop Heavenly Father’s work (see D&C 3:1; 10:43).

    As Nephi was writing the record of his people, God directed him to create two sets of plates, called the small plates and the large plates of Nephi. Nephi didn’t know why he was commanded to create two sets of plates, but he trusted that the Lord had “a wise purpose … , which purpose I know not” (1 Nephi 9:5

    Centuries later, as Mormon was abridging Nephi’s large plates, he came across the small plates. The small plates covered many of the same events described in the large plates that Mormon had already abridged, but the small plates focused more on spiritual matters and the ministry and teachings of the prophets. God inspired Mormon to include the small plates of Nephi in his record in addition to the large plates.

    Like Nephi, Mormon didn’t understand God’s purpose for having both sets of plates, but he trusted that it was “for a wise purpose” (Words of Mormon 1:7).

    Gospel Media: Mormon Abridging the Plates

    Today we know what God’s purpose was. In 1828, after Joseph Smith had translated part of Mormon’s abridgment of Nephi’s large plates (116 manuscript pages), Martin Harris lost those pages. God commanded Joseph not to retranslate this portion because evil men would change the words and try to discredit Joseph (see Doctrine and Covenants 10, section heading; Doctrine and Covenants 10:14–19, 30–45).

    See Doctrine and Covenants 3-5 for lesson ideas about the topic “I can choose the right when others try to get me to do wrong.”

    Primary 5 Manual: Doctrine and Covenants “Lesson 6: Joseph Smith Begins to Translate the Gold Plates” Write the following on the chalkboard: “When the Lord commands, do it.” Explain that Joseph Smith learned from his mistakes and challenges. Even though he faced despair when the 116 pages were lost, he learned the importance of obedience, repentance, and accepting the will of Heavenly Father. He learned to listen to the promptings of the Spirit and grew in his ability to use the Urim and Thummim. Later in life he was able to say, “I made this my rule: When the Lord commands, do it” (History of the Church, 2:170).

    Marvelous Work and Wonder

    2 Nephi 27

    Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) “2 Nephi 27” In 2 Nephi 27, the Lord testified of something marvelous He would do to help us through the wickedness and apostasy of the last days.

    Read 2 Nephi 27:25–26, looking for what the Lord promised He would do. Nephi prophesied that the Book of Mormon would come forth to help with the problems of the last days (see 2 Nephi 27:6).

    President Russell M. Nelson stated that this “marvelous work would include the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and the Restoration of the gospel” (“Scriptural Witnesses,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2007, 46).

    Pinterest BYU Tv

    Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) “2 Nephi 27” Read 2 Nephi 27:20–23, looking for reasons why God chose someone who was not learned to translate the Book of Mormon.

    Emma Smith (1804–1879), the wife of the Prophet, testified of the divine assistance Joseph received in his translation of the Book of Mormon:

    Emma Smith

    Joseph Smith could neither write nor dictate a coherent and well-worded letter, let alone dictat[e] a book like the Book of Mormon. And, though I was an active participant in the scenes that transpired, … it is marvelous to me, “a marvel and a wonder.” …

    My belief is that the Book of Mormon is of divine authenticity—I have not the slightest doubt of it. … It would have been improbable that a learned man could do this; and, for one so ignorant and unlearned as he was, it was simply impossible. (Emma Smith, in “Last Testimony of Sister Emma,” The Saints’ Herald, Oct. 1, 1879, 290)

    2 Nephi 27:15–20

    Nephi also wrote that God would allow a few witnesses to behold the plates the Book of Mormon was translated from and to testify of the truthfulness of the book to the world (see 2 Nephi 27:12–14).

    Dec 30 2020

    Primary

    Posted on by

    Table of Contents

    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 January 2016
    Friend January 2016
    Friend January 2016

    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 January 2017

    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 November 2015
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    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.

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    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.

    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.

    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

    Friend Sept 2016 poem
    Friend Sept 2016 poem

    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 June 2015

    Friend May 2016

    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.

    November 2015

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

    Friend August 2015
    Friend August 2015
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    Friend August 2015
    Friend August 2015
    Friend August 2015
    Friend August 2015
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    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 17 2020

    Christmas Around the World

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    Table of Contents

    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

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    Friend January 1988

    Friend January 1987

    Friend December 2015

    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” )

    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” )

    See also:

    LDS Living “FHE: The Thirteenth Article of Faith” Great lesson ideas

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