Tag Archives: stories

Jun 29 2021

Doctrine and Covenants 71–75

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

Ever since he was a boy, Joseph Smith faced critics—even enemies—as he tried to do God’s work. But it must have been particularly heartrending in late 1831 when Ezra Booth began publicly berating the Church, because in this case the critic was a former believer. Ezra had seen Joseph use God’s power to heal a woman. He had been invited to accompany Joseph on the first survey of the land of Zion in Missouri. But he had since lost his faith and, in an attempt to discredit the Prophet, published a series of letters in an Ohio newspaper. And his efforts seemed to be working: “unfriendly feelings … had developed against the Church” in the area (Doctrine and Covenants 71, section heading). What should believers do in a case like that? While there is not one right answer for every situation, it seems that quite often—including in this case in 1831—part of the Lord’s answer is to defend the truth and correct falsehoods by “proclaiming [the] gospel” (verse 1). Yes, the Lord’s work will always have critics, but in the end, “no weapon that is formed against [it] shall prosper” (verse 9). (See “Ezra Booth and Isaac Morley,” Revelations in Context, 134.)

I Can Defend the Truth by Sharing My Testimony.

Doctrine and Covenants 71

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

The Lord does not expect children to respond to critics of the Church as He called Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon to do. But you can help the children understand that their simple testimony of the truth can have a powerful effect on others.

  • Use the section heading for Doctrine and Covenants 71 to teach the children about the circumstances that inspired section 71. Read Doctrine and Covenants 71:1 with the children, and help them find what the Lord wanted Joseph and Sidney to do about the “unfriendly feelings” people had toward the Church. What did He say they would be given to help them? How can we be like Joseph and Sidney?
  • Invite the children to practice in pairs how to share with others what they know about the Church. For example, they can share a simple testimony or share one of the Articles of Faith.

The Lord has Called a Bishop to Help Me.

Doctrine and Covenants 72:2, 10

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

Little children may not know a lot about what their bishop does to serve them and other ward members. You can help them appreciate their bishop’s service.

  • Bring items to class that represent the responsibilities of a bishop, such as a tithing slip, the scriptures, or a picture of a bishop giving counsel (see the picture at the end of this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Read Doctrine and Covenants 72:2, and explain that the Lord has called a bishop to help us. Use the items you brought to help the children understand some of the things a bishop does to serve the ward.
  • “A Day with the Bishop” (August 1990 Liahona and July 1989 Friend)
    Explains some of the things a bishop does. Includes an activity.

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

  • Take the children on a walk to the bishop’s office (you may want to coordinate with other teachers). Describe for them some situations when they might meet with the bishop in his office (such as a baptismal interview or tithing settlement). Tell the children how you have been blessed by the bishop’s service.
  • Help the children make cards to give to the bishop, thanking him for what he does to help with the Lord’s work.

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun” Secret Service for Bishop

  • Sing “Teach Me to Walk in the Light” (Children’s Songbook,177).
  • Jesus taught that His Church should have bishops to lead and help the members (see Doctrine and Covenants 72:2).
  • Say thanks to your bishop or branch president by doing something kind. You could write him nice notes or bring him a treat. You could even do your plan without letting him know who did it!

The Lord Calls Bishops to Help Him Do His Work.

Doctrine and Covenants 72:8

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

A bishop can have a strong positive influence in the life of a young person. What can you do to help the children see the bishop as a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ?

  • Explain that in 1831 the Lord called the bishop of the Church, Edward Partridge, to move from Kirtland, Ohio, to be the bishop in Independence, Missouri. Read Doctrine and Covenants 72:8 with the children, and ask them to listen for who the Lord called to serve as the new bishop in Kirtland. Why does the Lord call bishops? Share with the children an experience when you were blessed by the service of a bishop.
  • Invite the children to make a list of some of the things they have seen the bishop do to help people in the ward. Ask the children to draw pictures of the bishop doing something they mentioned. Bear your testimony that your bishop was called by the Lord to be His servant. Why are we grateful that the Lord has called a bishop in our ward?
  • “Bishop, Help!” (April 2004 Friend)
    Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles teaches us about the special calling of a bishop.

I Can Give My Best Effort to the Lord.

Doctrine and Covenants 75:3

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

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

I Can Labor With All My Might and Not be Idle

Friend July 2016 Picking thorny blackberries was not fun, but a boy learned about responsibility and the rewards of work.

image

Friend June 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Help your little ones say, “I can work hard!” Teach your children a household chore they can help with, like sweeping or putting away their toys.

Latter Day Kids “Labor with Your Might” Lesson ideas to go with the video

The Lord Commanded Joseph Smith to Restore Precious Truths that were Lost from the Bible.

Doctrine and Covenants 73:3

Friend May 2009 “Restoring Plain and Precious Truths”

As part of his calling as the prophet, Joseph Smith was commanded by the Lord to make inspired revisions to the Bible. These revisions, which the Lord called a “translation” (Doctrine and Covenants 90:13), restored important truths that had been lost or removed from the Bible over the centuries.

  • Explain that when Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon returned from a short mission near Kirtland, Ohio, the Lord wanted them to resume work on an important project. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 73:3 to find out what that project was. To help the children understand what the Lord wanted Joseph and Sidney to translate, read with them parts of the Bible Dictionary entry “Joseph Smith Translation (JST).”
  • Pass around a copy of the Bible, and allow the children to open it and see how many pages are in it. Invite the children to imagine they were asked to translate the Bible into another language. What are the chances they might make some mistakes? Explain that when people translated or copied the Bible before Joseph Smith’s time, they made some mistakes, and sometimes they removed important truths. The Lord commanded the Prophet Joseph Smith to make inspired corrections. Why is Joseph Smith’s work valuable to us? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”)

Would your family benefit from learning about the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible? (see Bible Dictionary, “Joseph Smith Translation”). You could explore a few of the passages that were revised in the Joseph Smith Translation and discuss the precious truths the Lord revealed through the Prophet. For some examples, see the Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis 14:25–40 and Genesis 50:24–38 in the Bible appendix; various footnotes in Matthew 4:1–11; and Luke 2:46, footnote c. (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”)

Additional Teaching Ideas: Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 20: Joseph Smith Translates the Bible and Other Scriptures,”  

The Lord Blesses Those who Faithfully Proclaim His Gospel.

Doctrine and Covenants 75

Additional Resources

Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 71–75”

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

May 20 2021

Word of Wisdom: Stories

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Friend March 2024 “Margo and Paolo” Paulo’s grandmother tells Paulo she has lived a long time because she eats her vegetables. She also said, “When we take care of our bodies, God blesses us with strength and energy.”

Friend July 2017 “Kirtland and the Word of Wisdom”

Friend May 1985 – “Decide Now” – Spencer W Kimball  decides ahead to follow the  word of wisdom.

Friend May 1985

Friend July 2016 “Clarence vs. the Champion” Clarence is blessed to set an example of the Word of Wisdom during a race.

Friend July 2016

Friend April 2018 “A Long Shot: part one” When Elder Condie gave up basketball to go on a mission, he didn’t know if he would ever play again, but then he was invited to form a missionary team to help prepare Australia’s basketball team for the Olympics. He and his team mates were able to be public ambassadors for the church, including for the Word of Wisdom. Other teams were amazed at their endurance, especially since they only had time to practice once a week May 2018 “One Shot at a Time: part two”

Friend May 2018
Friend May 2018
Friend May 2018

Friend June 2017 “Martin’s Choice” Martin feels spiritually stronger after doing family scripture study. He also feels happy when he makes good choices and follows the prophet. These things help him when he has to make a choice about what to do when he is given tea at a school campout.

Friend June 2021 “Tea or Mango Juice?” Chung’s friend, Jiro, ordered the two of them cold tea on a hot day, but Chung asked for mango juice instead. He explained to Jiro why he doesn’t drink tea. He invited Jiro to church hoping someone could explain it better, but Jiro wasn’t interested. Jiro spoke up for him though when their class was going to have tea as a reward for hard work. He explained that Chung didn’t drink tea because it was part of his religion. Chung was glad he had such a good friend.

Friend June 2021

Friend April 2015 “Show and Tell” After I earned my black belt in tae kwan do, I went to a special ceremony for all the new black belts. Before it started, my instructor told us what we would do during the ceremony, which included drinking tea. I knew Heavenly Father said not to drink tea. I explained to my instructor why I could not drink tea. He let me drink water instead. My mother said she was proud of me for honoring my baptismal covenants and sharing my beliefs. I know following Heavenly Father’s commandments will always make me happy.

Joseph R., age 10, Texas, USA

Help Protect Others

Friend August 2021 “The Drug Decision” Alvin sees two classmates with a bag of drugs that they were planning on trying after school. Even though he doesn’t want them mad at him, Alvin tells his teacher because he knows drugs can hurt people.

Apr 13 2021

Disabilities

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Table of Contents

What is a Disability?

Friend October 2018 “Katie and Quincy” Story: “Some disabilities make it harder for a body to work. Other disabilities make it harder for a brain to work. Some people have a disability that affects their brain and their body. No matter what, every child is an important and loved child of God!”

What to do if you meet someone with a disability:

Friend October 2018

Friend May 2018 “For Parents of Little Ones” Teaching little children understanding and how to interact with somebody disabled or injured—instead of them staring or asking loud, uncomfortable questions.

Friend October 2019 “I Don’t Want to Be Different” Mika loved going to dance class. When the dancers all moved together she felt like she wasn’t the only one with Down Syndrome. But one day, when she asked for help with a new dance step, some girls said she talked funny. Mika wished she wasn’t different than other people. Her mother suggested that she pray and ask Heavenly Father how he feels about her. She got a loud answer that He loves her just the way she is, so she stopped worrying about what the other girls thought and started focusing on helping others who looked sad.

Friend October 2024 “Kindness at Camp” “Kat had her arm amputated as a baby, and now has a prosthetic arm. She was worried about going to camp, but everyone at camp was friendly and nice. Later, she tripped during the sack race because she couldn’t grab onto the sack properly. She felt like her new friends wouldn’t want her anymore because she made their team lose, but they greeted her with high fives and hugs. When a new boy is introduced that didn’t know English. She remembered how all her new friends had welcomed her to the group and she wanted that for him as well, so she bravely went up and talked to him with a few Spanish words she knew. Rodrigo’s worried look went away, and he smiled back.

Kindness and Service to those with Disabilities

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 June 2023 “Drawing with Christian” Gabriel like to draw during sacrament meeting, but a boy named Christian sometimes and took his pencils and scribbled on Gabriel’s drawings. Christian couldn’t talk, and he didn’t sit still. Gabriel’s sister suggested they help him draw next time he came over to them. Christian had a big smile when they helped him draw the following Sunday. Gabriel enjoyed it too.

Friend August 1983 ” Peggy’s Brother” A girl is reluctant to help her friend at a special Olympics because she feels uncomfortable, but after seeing how caring her disabled friend’s brother is, she is touched.

Friend February 2024 “My New Buddy” Sam makes a goal to make new friends so he joined a group called Peer Buddies. In Peer Buddies, fifth graders work with younger kids who have learning disabilities or delays. On the first day he had so much fun playing with one of the children. He was glad the Children and Youth goal helped him make a new friend.

Friendships

Friend October 2018 “Kaity and Quincy” Kaity, who has Down syndrome, loves her friend Quincy. Quincy always helps her at church. When Quincy’s brother dies, Katie wants to help her friend. She is able to comfort her sad, crying friend with just the right words and hugs.

Friend May 2018 “Best Buddies” Anna pushes Will’s wheelchair when they play tag and listens when Will slowly says something because she wants to hear what he has to say. Will laughs at Anna’s jokes. Anna helps Will find blocks to stack and Will doesn’t mind when Anna accidentally knocks over a tower. They are best friends.

Friend November 2019 “Seeing a New Friend” Beth had never met someone blind before, so she was a little unsure what to do with Cara when she and her family came for dinner. Even though Cara couldn’t see the toys, she could feel them and know what they were. Pretty soon Cara and Beth were giggling together, and Beth realized she had a new friend.

Friend March 2019 “Matt and Mandy” Matt’s friend wants to know why Matt is friends with him because he can’t run, ride bikes, or even talk very well. Matt said he likes his friend’s jokes and that they like a lot of the same stuff.

Able to Do Many Things

Friend April 2021 “A Card for Grandma” Ethan’s grandma is sick. He prays for her and makes a card for her.

Friend April 2022 “Samuel’s New Team” Samuel was born without a left hand, but he was a very good basketball player. He was joining a new team but was worried about what they would think. They didn’t pass the ball to him at first, but one boy saw he could play well and passed to Samuel to show the others that too. Samuel made a basket and his team cheered.

Family with Disabilities

Friend June 2022 “Backstage Drama” Paisley has a brother who is deaf and has learning disabilities, but he is also silly, has a great imagination, and cares about others. Paisley hears some other kids making fun of people with disabilities. It hurts her. She wished people were more understanding, compassionate, and kind.

Blindness

Friend November 2024 “Following Jesus in Kenya”When Martin met the missionaries, they gave him a pamphlet about Jesus Christ. Martin is visually impaired, so he couldn’t read the small words. But he still wanted to learn more. The missionaries gave Martin a copy of the Book of Mormon in braille. Braille is a form of written language for people who are blind or visually impaired.

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).

    Mar 23 2021

    Profanity: Stories

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    Table of Contents

    Profanity Affects Our Spirits

    Profanity Makes it Hard for the Holy Ghost to Be with Us

    Friend September 2022 “Weeds and the Bad Words” Jonas hears a bad word at school and he talks to his mom about it. She explains that the word was disrespectful and unkind, and that when we use words like that, it makes it hard for the Holy Ghost to be with us. And it’s kind of like weeds, you want to pull them out to keep the garden clean and let good plants grow.

    Friend April 2017 “Brock and the Bad Word” Brock’s new friends all swear, and soon Brock becomes like them and stops feeling the Holy Ghost.

    Overcoming Profanity

    Friend April 2024 “A Better Habit” While playing four square, Jessica’s friends were using the Lord’s name like a swear word whenever they got out. Pretty soon Jessica was doing it too. Her friend Abby was shocked to hear Jessica doing it. Jessica felt terrible and talked to her mom about it. Her mom helped her repent, pray for help to stop using the words, and make a list of words she could use instead. At first it was hard, but soon she had stopped using the Lord’s name in vain, and it felt good.

    Friend November 2020 “Hyrum Beats the Bad Words” Hyrum figures out a way to help him not think about the bad words that he hears.

    Friend July 2015 “Not at Home, Not Anywhere” Carter and his friend had started swearing at school, and he had decided it wasn’t that big a deal to use bad words once in a while—as long as he didn’t say them at home or at church. But then swear words had popped out before he’d even thought about it at home with his friend, and his mom heard them.

    Profanity Used by Others

    Speak Up

    Friend February 2019 “Show and Tell” One of my friends asked me to swear. I didn’t. Instead, I asked her not to swear around me. She said she would try, and then she asked the rest of the girls to do the same. Almost all of them agreed! I’m glad I could be a good example. Elora W., age 12, Vienna, Austria

    Friend August 2019 “Speaking Up” Jonathon feels sad and uncomfortable when his Spanish teacher frequently uses Heavenly Father’s name as a swear word in class. Jonathon wants to talk to her about it but is afraid she will be mad. He prays for help to say the right thing and is able to do it in a kind and respectful way. His teacher promises to work on not saying it anymore.

    Friend August 2019
    Friend August 2019
    Friend August 2019

    Be a Friend

    For the Strength of Youth April 2024 “Thanks for Looking Out” Sam gets upset and uses bad language when he loses a game. His friend helps remind him that isn’t who he is.

    Leave

    Friend March 2017 “Show and Tell” My friend and I started playing football with some kids we just met at the park. They started saying bad words, which made us feel uncomfortable. We decided to go home and felt much better. I know if you listen to the Holy Ghost, you will be blessed.

    Get Help

    Friend February 2020 “Brave on the Bus” Some kids were using bad language on the bus and it made Natalie and her friends feel uncomfortable. Natalie said a prayer asking Heavenly Father to please make them stop. The thought came to her to talk to the bus driver. She listened, and the bus driver helped fix the situation.

    Friend March 2021 “Courage in Choir” While singing a new song in her school’s choir, Scarlett hears Heavenly Father’s name in vain being taken in vain in the song. She asked the teacher if she could say something different. The teacher changed the words for everyone.

    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).

    “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. 

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    “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.

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    Jan 12 2021

    Family Love & Service

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    Ruth

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

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

    Old Testament Stories “Ruth and Naomi”

    Friend June 2022 “Ruth and Naomi”

    Latter Day Kids “Showing Kindness to Others” Lesson ideas

    For the Strength of Youth June 2022 “Fearless Together”

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

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

    Family Support Game

    Ruth 1–4

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

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

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

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

    Friend June 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities”

    Grains of Service

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

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

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

    Old Testament Coloring Book “Ruth and Naomi”

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

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

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

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

    Friend April 2015
    Friend April 2015

    Giving Time to Those We Love

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

    Service Helps Us Be Happy

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

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

    Friend April 2016
    Friend April 2016

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

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

    Friend January 2016

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

    Friend October 2015 "The Doll in the Green Dress"
    Friend October 2015

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

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

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    Friend September 2015

    Friend September 2015

    Friend Jan 2015  “Mommy’s Flower Garden

    Friend Jan 2015
    Friend Jan 2015
    Friend Jan 2015

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

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

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

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

    Dec 17 2020

    Charity/ Love: Stories

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    Love Helps Strengthen Us

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

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

    Love Your Enemies

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Friend January 2016
    Friend January 2016

    Charity is the Pure Love of Christ.

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

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

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

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    Valentine’s

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

    Love Your Enemies

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

    Friend February 1986
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    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

    Nov 1 2020

    Tithing: Stories

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    Table of Contents

    What is Tithing Used For?

    Friend December 2014 “The House That Tithing Built”

    Friend December 2014
    This is Jack. These are Jack’s coins that jingle and jangle. This is Jack’s tithing, 10 percent.
    Friend December 2014
    Friend December 2014
    Friend December 2014
    Friend December 2014
    Friend December 2014

    Tithing Blessings

    Friend November 2023 “Coconuts and Tithing” During the summer Avehei and her brother work in the coconut groves. She always pays my tithing with the money she receives because she knows she and her family are blessed when she obeys.

    Heavenly Father Gives Us Everything

    Friend December 2022 “Tithing Pie” A bishop explains tithing by drawing a pretend peach pie and then asking if any of the children would want some. He then says he will give the whole pie to them, but he just wants one piece back.

    Friend June 2024 “Eggs and Pennies” Grandpa paid Izzy a penny for each egg she collected. In her primary lesson she learned and about tithing and that if you have 10 cents, you give one cent as tithing. Izzy’s face felt hot. Give one of her pennies? She couldn’t! Then she remembered her grandfather. He only kept one of the eggs she gathered for him and he gave the rest to her family. She always gave him the biggest egg because she loved him. “So,” Izzy said slowly, “we give Heavenly Father back a little of what He gives us. Because we want to show Him we love Him.” Feeling warm all over, Izzy took the shiniest penny and slipped it into her envelope to give to Heavenly Father. “Thanks for the pennies,” she whispered. “And thanks for the blessings from heaven.”

    Friend September 2022 “Moisés and the Pesos” Moises works in his father’s shop and earns money. His parents are separated and his mom struggles to provide for the family. His mom and family join the church. One day there is not enough to live on and pay tithing, but his mom pays tithing first. As she pays tithing in life, they always have enough for their needs. His mom’s example makes him want to pay tithing too.

    Friend April 2018 “An Amazing Lesson”When Elder Cordon was a child he learned that the Lord blesses us when we pay our tithing. His parents had to choose between paying for food or paying tithing. They paid their tithing and later his father received work and a prepayment for that work.

    Friend May 2017 “Conference Notes” When Elder Cordón was a child, his father’s business went bankrupt and they had very little money. One day, Elder Cordón heard his parents talking about whether they should pay tithing or buy food. They decided to have faith and pay tithing. The next day, someone offered to pay his dad for work. They were always blessed with food on their table. Elder Cordón testified that we are blessed when we obey.

    Pay Tithing First

    Friend April 2018 “An Amazing Lesson”When Elder Cordon was a child he learned that the Lord blesses us when we pay our tithing. His parents had to choose between paying for food or paying tithing. They paid their tithing and later his father received work and a prepayment for that work.

    Friend May 2017 “Conference Notes” When Elder Cordón was a child, his father’s business went bankrupt and they had very little money. One day, Elder Cordón heard his parents talking about whether they should pay tithing or buy food. They decided to have faith and pay tithing. The next day, someone offered to pay his dad for work. They were always blessed with food on their table. Elder Cordón testified that we are blessed when we obey.

    Friend October 2021 “The Two Envelopes” Chung pays his tithing first

    Friend November 2020 “Conference Notes” Elder Gong told about a boy in South America who raises chickens. He sells the eggs to help buy windows for his family’s house. And he always pays his tithing first! Elder Gong said this boy would see the windows of heaven open. That means he will be blessed for choosing the right.

    Friend October 2020 “Tithing Pesos” Sofia sold lemonade during her family’s garage sale. Her father taught her about tithing and showed her how to pay it.

    Friend May 2018 ”The Silver Dollar” Alvin is proud of the silver dollar he earned doing farm work and wants to keep it forever. His mother reminds him to pay his tithing, which upsets him because he doesn’t want to break up his coin. He figures out how to earn eleven more cents so he can do what is right and pay his tithing.

    Friend May 2018
    Friend May 2018

    Friend November 2016 “First Things First” Kai noticed that his dad always put the tithing check on the fridge. Kai learned that his father had made a promise to always pay tithing first before anything else.

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    Friend February 1986 “Tomato and Carrot Dinner” Thomas isn’t happy about his father paying tithing when there is very little to eat. His father teaches him to have faith in the Lord.

    Friend April 2016 “Pesos for Heavenly Father” Ana’s grandmother has faith to pay tithing even though there is no food, and she is blessed.

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    Additional Resources

    Resources for Children: Tithing

    • “An Amazing Lesson” (April 2018 Liahona and Friend)
      Elder Valeri V. Cordón of the Seventy shares a story from when he was a boy and his family was blessed after paying tithing. Includes an activity.
    • “Blessings of Tithing” (September 2017 Friend)
      President Henry B. Eyring teaches about the blessings we receive when we pay a full tithe. Includes two activities.
    • “The Butter Dish” (June 2006 Liahona and Friend)
      A pioneer family learns the importance of tithing.
    • “A Crop of Blessings” (May 2013 Friend)
      Will listens to President Lorenzo Snow teach the Saints about tithing.
    • “A Dime from a Dollar” (April 2010 Friend)
      A boy delays buying a toy he wants so he can pay his tithing.
    • “Empty Can” (June 1999 Friend)
      A boy unconsciously spends his tithing and then works hard to make things right with the Lord.
    • “First Things First” (November 2016 Friend)
      Kai learns about putting tithing first when he sees his dad put a check for tithing on the refrigerator every two weeks.
    • “Five Little Fish” (November 2007 Friend)
      President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910-2008), tells the story of a couple who were blessed with food to eat after paying their tithing.
    • “Friend to Friend” (January 1971 Friend)
      President Spencer W. Kimball teaches how he learned about the importance of paying tithing.
    • “Is My Tithing Too Small?” (January 2009 Friend)
      Ali worries that her tithing is too small when her sister pays more than she does.
    • “It Pays to Listen” (October 2008 Friend)
      Alice follows her father’s example and pays her tithing.
    • “Just One Coin” (August 2011 Liahona and Friend)

      A boy learns that an honest tithe is never too small. Includes an activity that shows how tithing is used.
    • “Learning God’s Law” (April 2007 Liahona and Friend)
      President David O. McKay (1873–1970) didn’t want to pay tithing, but his father taught him an important lesson.
    • “Matt and Mandy” (September 2010 Friend)
      Matt’s grandpa helps him understand why tithing is so important.
    • “Pesos for Heavenly Father” (April 2016 Liahona and Friend)
      Ana learns the importance of paying tithing from her grandmother who pays her tithing even though she has no money for food.
    • “Sharing the Boot Money” (January 2002 Friend)
      Elder Douglas L. Callister, of the Seventy, shares a story about how his six-year-old son learned to pay tithing.
    • “The Silver Dollar” (May 2018 Friend)
      Alvin wants to pay his tithing but doesn’t want to exchange his silver dollar for smaller coins, so he finds another way.
    • “A Sister’s Example” (February 2005 Liahona and Friend)
      Elder Matthew Cowley (1897–1953) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles knew a woman who saved her tithing for years until the priesthood visited her home.
    • “Special Witness: Tithing” (September 2002 Friend)
      Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares what he was taught as a boy about the importance of paying tithing.
    • “Tithing Around the World” (June 2006 Friend)
      An activity about different world currencies and tithing.
    • “Tithing Shoes” (November 2007 Friend)
      A family is blessed when they decide to make tithing a priority.
    • “Tithing, the Best Choice” (February 2010 Liahona and Friend)

      A story for young children about a boy who paid tithing when he sold his prize calf. Includes a maze, hidden picture, and instructions to make a tithing jar.
    • “Trying to Be Like Jesus: The Tithing Choice” (July 2010 Friend)
      A girl describes a time when she decided to pay her tithing.
    • “Where Does Tithing Go?” (September 2005 Liahona and Friend)
      A simple explanation of how tithing is used.
    • “Why is tithing important?” (October 2009 Friend)
      Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares some thoughts on the subject.
    • “The Windows of Heaven” (September 2005 Liahona and Friend)
      A faithful family is blessed after they pay their tithing.
    • “Wooden Skis” (December 2000 Friend)
      A boy pays his tithing instead of spending the money to go skiing with his friends.