Tag Archives: teaching children

Feb 21 2021

Stand as a Witness: Lesson Ideas

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Table of Contents

What is a Witness

Display the bag or box containing the object. Describe the object without showing it to the children.

  • Do you think this object is really in the bag [box]?

Point out that some of the children might believe that the object is inside the bag or box because they know and trust you, but others might not believe because no one else has seen the item. Invite three children to come up and look at the item. Ask them to describe it to the class. Explain that now it is easier to believe that the item is in the bag or box because three more people have seen, or witnessed, it.

Ways We Can be a Witness

Use the Correct Name of the Church

Friend November 2018 “The Correct Name of the Church” The prophet, Russell M. Nelson, directs church members to use the correct name of the church. Questions are answered to explain why. Also a book mark is included and an example cartoon of how to respond when people ask what church we belong to.

Remain True to Your Testimony

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

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

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

One of the blessings of the scriptures is that they contain inspiring examples of valiant men and women who faced challenges with faith in Jesus Christ. When Joseph Smith faced opposition because of his vision, he identified with the Apostle Paul, who was also persecuted for saying he had seen a vision. As you read Joseph’s account, what inspires you to remain true to your testimony? What other examples—from the scriptures or people you know—give you courage to stay true to the spiritual experiences you have had?

Song: The Church of Jesus Christ

Be a Witness of the Truth of the Book of Mormon

Review with the children the account of Joseph Smith translating the gold plates. Explain that at this time Joseph Smith was the only person who had actually seen the plates. Read aloud 2 Nephi 27:12 with the children.

  • What did Heavenly Father promise he would do when the Book of Mormon came forth?

Explain that Heavenly Father promised to allow witnesses to see the gold plates so that these witnesses could tell other people that the plates did exist.

Doctrine and Covenants 5:1–7, 11, 16, 23–24

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 3–5: “My Work Shall Go Forth”

Martin Harris was promised that he could be one of the witnesses of the gold plates if he was faithful [and humbled himself]. We won’t see the plates like Martin did, but we can receive a spiritual witness of the Book of Mormon.

  • Write questions like the following on the board, and help the children find answers in Doctrine and Covenants 5:1–3, 7, 11: What did Martin Harris desire to know? Who could Joseph Smith show the gold plates to? Why would seeing the plates likely not be enough to convince someone that the Book of Mormon is true?
  • Ask the children what a witness is and why a witness is important.
  • What did Martin Harris need to do to be a witness of the gold plates? (see Doctrine and Covenants 5:23–24).
  • Even though we haven’t seen the plates, what can we do to be witnesses of the Book of Mormon? (see Doctrine and Covenants 5:16; Moroni 10:3–5).

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

David Whitmer became one of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon, and four of his brothers were among the Eight Witnesses. Like David and his brothers, each of us can “stand as a witness” of the truth (Doctrine and Covenants 14:8).

Doctrine and Covenant Stories “Chapter 7: Witnesses See the Gold Plates” Images and Video. Watch the first half of the video, or read the first half to the children.

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

Read together Doctrine and Covenants 17:3–5 to find out what Oliver Cowdery, Martin Harris, and David Whitmer were asked to do after seeing the gold plates.

Hold up a copy of the Book of Mormon, and read to the children the last line of Doctrine and Covenants 17:6: “As your Lord and your God liveth it is true.” Tell the children how you know the Book of Mormon is true. Invite the children to become witnesses of the Book of Mormon by reading it and praying to know if it is true and then sharing their testimony with others.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 9: Witnesses See the Gold Plates,”  Link includes additional stories, activities, and lesson ideas.

Have the children think of ways they can be witnesses of the Book of Mormon and its teachings. List their answers on the chalkboard. Have the children dramatize what they could do to be witnesses in particular situations, such as when someone asks them what their church believes or what the Book of Mormon says.

Friend January 2019 “Something Special to Share” Diego wants to take something special to share for Show and Tell. He decides to take a picture of Jesus and tell them that Jesus loves everyone.

[unitegallery 2019Januar]

I can be a witness of the Lord.

Isaiah 43:10

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 40–49” The Lord reminded the Israelites that they had witnessed many great things that He had done for them. He wanted them (and all of us) to be His witnesses, helping others know of His power and goodness.

  • Tell the children about something you have witnessed. Help them think of things they have experienced that they can tell each other about or be a “witness” of—for example, a delicious food they have tasted, a place they have visited, or a person they know. Read to the children from Isaiah 43:10: “Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen.” Tell the children that when we are baptized we promise to be a witness of Jesus Christ (see Mosiah 18:9). What does it mean to be the Lord’s witness?

Friend November 2008 “Sharing a Testimony”

The other day I had a friend over who is not a member of the Church. He saw a picture of Jesus on our refrigerator, and told me that he did not believe that Jesus was real. I said, “Jesus is real, and I believe in Him!” I then told him that Jesus really lived on this earth a long time ago and that He died, but on the third day He was resurrected. I told him that because of Jesus, we will be able to live again after we die too.

My friend listened to what I was saying as he looked at the picture of Jesus. He seemed to believe that what I was telling him was true. I want to give him a Book of Mormon with my testimony written in it for his birthday. I know this Church is true, and I am thankful when I can share my testimony with my friends. (Brigham P., age 6, Montana)

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

  • Ask the children to share what they know about Jesus Christ and His gospel. Show them pictures to give them ideas (for example, pictures of the Savior’s Resurrection, the Book of Mormon, the temple, and the living prophet). Invite them to talk about what they could share with others as witnesses of the Lord.

Friend September 1999 “We Can Testify of Jesus Christ and His Gospel” Lesson 

I will be a witness of Jesus Christ.

Acts 6–7

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 6-9” How can you help the children you teach learn from Stephen’s example of standing as a witness of Jesus Christ?

Read Acts 6:5–15 and 7:51–60 with the children. What made Stephen such a powerful witness of Jesus Christ? Invite one or more children to pretend to be Stephen and share why they believe in Jesus Christ.

Invite the children to read Acts 6:3–10, searching for qualities Stephen had that helped him grow.

Ask the children to help you think of situations in which they can stand as witnesses of Jesus Christ and His gospel. Help them role-play some of these situations. Ask the children to read Mosiah 18:9. Point out that being a witness of Jesus Christ is included in the promises we make at baptism.

  • Friend November 2008 “Sharing a Testimony” The other day I had a friend over who is not a member of the Church. He saw a picture of Jesus on our refrigerator, and told me that he did not believe that Jesus was real. I said, “Jesus is real, and I believe in Him!” I then told him that Jesus really lived on this earth a long time ago and that He died, but on the third day He was resurrected. I told him that because of Jesus, we will be able to live again after we die too. My friend listened to what I was saying as he looked at the picture of Jesus. He seemed to believe that what I was telling him was true. I want to give him a Book of Mormon with my testimony written in it for his birthday. I know this Church is true, and I am thankful when I can share my testimony with my friends. (Brigham P., age 6, Montana)

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

  • Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Acts 6-9”The Jewish leaders were responsible for preparing the people for the coming of the Messiah. And yet they failed to recognize the Messiah and rejected Him. How did this happen? Part of the answer may be found in Stephen’s words: “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost” (Acts 7:51). What do you think it means to resist the Holy Ghost? Why does resisting the Holy Ghost lead to rejecting the Savior and His servants?

Acts 7:51–60.

  • How did the Holy Ghost bless Stephen when he was being persecuted? When have we received strength from the Holy Ghost during difficult times?
  • See also the following:

I Can Boldly Stand as a Witness, Even When it’s Hard

Acts 26:1–29

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 22-28” Reviewing Paul’s testimony before King Agrippa can help the children learn how to share what they know is true.

Bring a paper crown to class and let a child wear it and pretend to be King Agrippa. Invite another child to stand before the king to represent Paul as you summarize Paul’s testimony and the reaction of King Agrippa, found in Acts 26:1–29 (see “Chapter 63: Paul Finishes His Mission,” in New Testament Stories, 162–66, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Explain that we can share our testimonies with others, as Paul did.

Acts 26

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Acts 22-28” Paul’s courage in sharing his testimony can help the children be bold when sharing their testimonies.

Select verses from Acts 26 to read with the children to help them understand what Paul told King Agrippa about his experiences (such as verses 9–16) and what he taught about Jesus Christ (such as verses 18, 23). You might also show a portion of the video “Paul: A Chosen Vessel” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Why might it have been scary for Paul to share these things before the king? Invite the children to list some gospel principles they know to be true. Ask them to think of someone they know who needs to hear their testimony of these truths.

  • Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “Acts 22-28” When Paul delivered the powerful testimonies recorded in Acts 22 and 26, he was being held prisoner by Roman soldiers. The people he spoke to had the power to condemn him to death. Yet he chose to boldly bear witness of Jesus Christ and “the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19) he had received. What inspires you about his words? Consider the opportunities you have to share your testimony. For example, do your friends know how you feel about Jesus Christ? Or when was the last time you told your family how you gained your testimony of the gospel?

Invite the children to use this week’s activity page to write something they might say when they share their testimonies.

Write the text from Romans 1:16 on the board, replacing a few words with blanks. Ask the children to look up the scripture and fill in the blanks. Invite children to share what “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” means to them.

  • To live unashamed of the gospel means we proclaim it, but it also means we apply it to our lives and show we believe it. Got Questions
Feb 12 2021

Aaronic Priesthood is Restored

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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

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”

Feb 8 2021

Doctrine & Covenants 12-17 and Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75

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Table of Contents

Doctrine & Covenants 12

Revelation given to Joseph Knight

Doctrine & Covenants Section 12 Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to Joseph Knight Sr., at Harmony, Pennsylvania, May 1829. Joseph Knight believed the declarations of Joseph Smith concerning his possession of the Book of Mormon plates and the work of translation then in progress and several times had given material assistance to Joseph Smith and his scribe, which enabled them to continue translating. At Joseph Knight’s request, the Prophet inquired of the Lord and received the revelation.

The Lord wants Me to Help do His Work

Doctrine and Covenants 12

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75: “Upon You My Fellow Servants”

Joseph Knight Sr. and his wife, Polly, met Joseph Smith when, as a 20-year-old, he began to work on their farm in Colesville, New York. Joseph Knight described him as the best worker he ever had. He believed Joseph Smith’s testimony about the gold plates and took Polly to visit Joseph Smith while he was translating the Book of Mormon at his home in Harmony, Pennsylvania. She immediately believed. For the rest of their lives, Joseph and Polly remained faithful to the restored gospel. More than 60 members of the Knight family joined and helped establish the Church in New York, Ohio, Missouri, Nauvoo, and eventually Salt Lake City.

Joseph Knight wanted to know how he could help in the work of the Lord. The Lord’s answer (now Doctrine and Covenants 12) applies to “all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work” (verse 7)—including you. What does it mean to you “to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion”? (verse 6). How do the principles and attributes in verses 7–9 help you do this?

Liahona February 2021 “What can we do to follow the prophet?”

See also “The Knight and Whitmer Families,” Revelations in Context, 20–24.

The Lord’s work is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of his children. (Moses 1:39) Show the children a few tools or instruments used by builders, doctors, gardeners, painters, and so forth. Ask the children to tell what they know about each one, who uses it, and how it is used. What other tools do the children know of? Invite them to pretend to use a tool. Explain that just as we use instruments or tools to get things done, Heavenly Father can use us to do His work. Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 

See Serving in the Church for ideas on ways children can help with the Lord’s work.

Doctrine and Covenants 12:8. Why are the characteristics listed in this verse necessary when we are doing the Lord’s work?

Doctrine & Covenants 13

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

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 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.

Doctrine & Covenants 14 -17 (Click here)

Additional Resources

The Red Crystal

Latter Day Kids “Priesthood Keys” Lesson ideas

Feb 3 2021

Doctrine and Covenants 10-11

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Table of Contents

Doctrine and Covenants Section 10 Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, likely around April 1829, though portions may have been received as early as the summer of 1828. Herein the Lord informs Joseph of alterations made by wicked men in the 116 manuscript pages from the translation of the book of Lehi, in the Book of Mormon. These manuscript pages had been lost from the possession of Martin Harris, to whom the sheets had been temporarily entrusted. (See the heading to section 3.) The evil design was to await the expected retranslation of the matter covered by the stolen pages and then to discredit the translator by showing discrepancies created by the alterations. That this wicked purpose had been conceived by the evil one and was known to the Lord even while Mormon, the ancient Nephite historian, was making his abridgment of the accumulated plates, is shown in the Book of Mormon (see Words of Mormon 1:3–7). 1–26, Satan stirs up wicked men to oppose the Lord’s work; 27–33, He seeks to destroy the souls of men; 34–52, The gospel is to go to the Lamanites and all nations through the Book of Mormon; 53–63, The Lord will establish His Church and His gospel among men; 64–70, He will gather the repentant into His Church and will save the obedient.

Doctrine and Covenants Section 11 Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to his brother Hyrum Smith, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, May 1829. This revelation was received through the Urim and Thummim in answer to Joseph’s supplication and inquiry. Joseph Smith’s history suggests that this revelation was received after the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood. 1–6, Laborers in the vineyard will gain salvation; 7–14, Seek wisdom, cry repentance, trust in the Spirit; 15–22, Keep the commandments, and study the Lord’s word; 23–27, Deny not the spirit of revelation and of prophecy; 28–30, Those who receive Christ become the sons of God.

Doctrine and Covenants 10

As I pray always, I receive strength from God.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Section 10-11”

Doctrine and Covenants 10:5

  • To introduce this verse to your children, you could ask them about things they “always” do.

(You could use the pictures below to play a Family Feud type game with the above question.)

Clipart Library

What does the Lord say we should always do in Doctrine and Covenants 10:5? Why does He want us to do this?

  • D&C 10:5 Pray always, that you may come off conqueror; yea, that you may conquer Satan, and that you may escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work.
  • Jesus taught, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always, lest ye be tempted by the devil, and ye be led away captive by him…for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.”(3 Nephi18:18)

Friend February 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”

Satan would prefer that we forget he exists—or that we at least fail to recognize his attempts to influence us (see 2 Nephi 28:22–23). But the Lord’s words in Doctrine and Covenants 10 reveal that Satan is in constant, active opposition to God’s work. As you read verses 1–33, identify how Satan sought to destroy God’s work in Joseph Smith’s time (see also verses 62–63). What similarities do you see with the ways Satan works today? You could ask the Lord to help you see how Satan may be tempting you. What do you learn from section 10 that can help you resist Satan’s efforts? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 10–11: “That You May Come Off Conqueror”)

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Section 10-11”

  • How can you help your children remember to pray always? Maybe they could collect a few small, smooth stones and paint on them (or draw on them with markers) “Doctrine and Covenants 10:5” or “Pray Always.” They could put their stones in various places where they want to be reminded to pray, like near their bed, with their schoolbooks, or where they eat meals.
Clipart Library
Friend February 2025

According to Doctrine and Covenants 10:5, how does God bless us when we pray? Your children could find additional answers in a song like “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 13).

When I pray always, Heavenly Father will bless me.

Sometimes children think they can pray only at specific times and places, and only if they are kneeling or closing their eyes. How can you help them learn how to “pray always”?

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

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

Friend February 2025 “Following Jesus Together” “I had a question during an exam that I didn’t know how to answer. I said a prayer in my head, and Heavenly Father helped me understand the question.” Gabriel W., age 11, Luxembourg, Belgium (See picture at link)

Friend January 2019

Talk with the children about times when they can pray, such as when they are scared, when they make mistakes, or when they need help in school. Why is it good to pray in these situations? Teach the children that no matter where they are, they can always pray in their hearts. (Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “2 Nephi 31-33”)

The Red Crystal Sorting scenarios and deciding if it is a prayer we say in our hearts or a prayer we say folding our arms and closing our eyes.

Friend January 2018 “I Can Pray” Action rhyme

Come Follow Me Kid

Pray Always Yes/No Game – How do we pray always? What does the word “always” mean? Give examples of different times and situations, and have them stand up and shout, “Yes!” if that’s a time/situation they could pray in. If they couldn’t pray in a certain situation, tell them to sit down and shout, “No!” (Obviously all of theanswers to this will be yes though). Here are some possible things to say:
 Can we pray in the morning? Afternoon? Night?
 At home? At school? At church? With friends?
 By the couch? By your bed? In the closet? Outside?
 If you’re scared? If you’re happy? If you’re worried? If you’re mad? If you’re excited?
 If you need help making a right choice? If you want to just say thanks for blessings?
 Can you pray to ask Heavenly Father and Jesus to help you conquer Satan?
 Discuss how we can pray when we’re around other people (school/with friends/etc.).

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

Latter Day Kids “Pray Always” Lesson ideas

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

Doctrine and Covenants 10:34–52

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

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

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

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

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

Doctrine and Covenants 11

In May 1829, Hyrum Smith’s great desire was to participate in the Restoration of the Savior’s Church. He traveled over 250 miles from Palmyra, New York, to Harmony, Pennsylvania, to visit his younger brother Joseph and learn what he could do to help. The Lord revealed Doctrine and Covenants 11 because of Hyrum’s righteous desires. (Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Lesson 22—Doctrine and Covenants 11:1–7”)

If I ask of God, I will receive.

Doctrine and Covenants 11

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

Several of Joseph Smith’s family members and friends asked him to seek the Lord’s will on their behalf. Joseph was happy to do so, but the Lord was also willing to give them personal revelation. In Doctrine and Covenants 11, a revelation that Joseph received for his older brother Hyrum, the Lord said, “I will impart unto you of my Spirit, … and then shall ye know … all things whatsoever you desire of me” (Doctrine and Covenants 11:13–14). What is the Lord trying to tell you about personal revelation? Read Doctrine and Covenants 11:27, looking for who else the Savior spoke to in this revelation.

Word of God

Doctrine and Covenants 11:2

Doctrine and Covenants Seminary Teacher Manual “Lesson 22—Doctrine and Covenants 11:1–7”

The use and imagery of a two-edged sword was common in the ancient world and appears in both the Old and New Testaments (see Judges 3:16; Psalm 149:6; Proverbs 5:4; Hebrews 4:12; Revelation 1:16; 2:12). A two-edged sword can cut both ways and offered the wielder more advantages during combat. (Compare to combat with Satan using the word of God)

For example, students might discover from Alma 31:5 that the word of God is even more powerful than a sword. From Helaman 3:29 they might see how the word of God divides and separates truth from error. From Joseph Smith’s experience they may notice that God’s word can penetrate our hearts and help us act in righteousness. From Hebrews 4:12 students may realize that the word of God can pierce our minds and souls.

The Holy Ghost leads me to do good.

Doctrine and Covenants 11:12–13

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

  • Help the children make a list of people they go to when they need help or have a question. Why do we trust that these people will help us? Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 11:12 and look for what Hyrum Smith was told to trust.

12 And now, verily, verily, I say unto thee, put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good—yea, to do justly, to walk humbly, to judge righteously; and this is my Spirit.

What do we learn from this verse about why we should trust in the guidance of the Holy Ghost?

The Spirit leadeth to do good

Below song includes a story about a boy that didn’t have any friends and another boy felt like he should befriend the lonely boy.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Screen-Shot-2022-02-07-at-8.40.39-AM-1024x584.png

“You recognize the promptings of the Spirit by the fruits of the Spirit—that which enlighteneth, that which buildeth up, that which is positive and affirmative and uplifting and leads us to better thoughts and better words and better deeds is of the Spirit of God.”

Friend November 2023 “More than a Good Practice Day” Ismael saw a woman weeding the whole time he and his dad were playing soccer. He felt strongly that he should go over and tell her she was doing a good job. She seemed unhappy and tired until Ismael told her thank you for taking care of the park, and then she got a big smile and thanked him.

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

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

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

To make good Choices

Friend February 2019 “Yo-Yo Decision” While shopping with her mom, Lea found a yo-yo. Oscar had brought one to school and had impressed everyone with tricks. Lea wanted to do that too, but she didn’t have enough money to buy the yo-yo. A thought came into her mind that she could just put it in her pocket, but then she had a bad feeling. She realized it was the Holy Ghost warning her, so she put it back and felt peaceful and happy.

Enlightens your mind and fills you with joy

13 Verily, verily, I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy;

Enlighten your mind (Gives greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation.)

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Section 10-11”

  • Children can learn to recognize when the Spirit is speaking to them. To help them, you could hide a light bulb or flashlight and a picture of a happy face somewhere in the room; then ask your children to find these items. Read Doctrine and Covenants 11:13, and help your children identify words that relate to the items they found. What do these words teach about how the Holy Ghost helps us?

Friend November 2023 “Listening to the Holy Ghost”

  • Sharing your own spiritual experiences can help your children recognize the Holy Ghost’s influence in their lives. As you share, ask them to share their experiences too. You could also read together Doctrine and Covenants 11:12–13, looking for how we can recognize when the Holy Ghost is guiding us. Testify that Heavenly Father wants to guide us through the Holy Ghost.
  • Sing a song about the guidance of the Holy Ghost, such as “Listen, Listen” (Children’s Songbook, 107). Ask the children what the song teaches them about how the Holy Ghost helps us.

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

Doctrine and Covenants 11:21, 26

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Section 10-11”

  • Just like Hyrum Smith, your children will probably have many opportunities to share the gospel with others. You could read together Doctrine and Covenants 11:21, 26 and ask your children to find what the Lord told Hyrum he needed to do so he could teach the gospel. What does it mean to “obtain” God’s word? How can we do this?

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

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

  • How do we “treasure up” God’s word in our hearts?
  • “Scripture Treasures” (January 2015 Friend)
    This poem tells of treasures you can find as you read the scriptures daily.

Friend January 2020 “The Precious Book of Mormon” President Nelson

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

  • Perhaps your children could role-play sharing something about Jesus Christ or the Book of Mormon with others.
  • Sing together a song about sharing the gospel, such as “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 168). What does this song teach about how we can be missionaries every day?

Additional Resources

Faith in Jesus Christ

Doctrine and Covenants 10:55-70

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

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

Come Follow Me Kid Faith Video Game – There’s a quote in the manual that says, “The adversary’s ongoing efforts to weaken faith are intensifying.” This is such a true sentence and is so hard to watch happen so often. Satan knows that great things are coming, and the closer it gets to the Second Coming, the harder he’s going to work to try to stop us from having the faith we need to have. He knows that faith will bring us joy, and he does NOT want us to be happy.

How were Hyrum’s desires to serve the Lord fulfilled?

President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained:

Hyrum gave unfailing service to the Church. In 1829 he was among a handful of individuals who were allowed to view the gold plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated, and for the rest of his life he testified to the divine nature of the Book of Mormon. … He was among the first to be baptized in this gospel dispensation. At age thirty, he was the oldest of the six men chosen in 1830 to formally organize The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. … In 1833, when the Lord chastised the Church for delaying the start of the Kirtland Temple, Hyrum was the first to start digging its foundation. …

Hyrum served in the Ohio bishopric, on the first high council, as Patriarch, counselor in the First Presidency, and finally as one of only two men ever to hold the office of Assistant President of the Church.

Hyrum served many missions for the Church. …

Clearly, Hyrum Smith was one of the firm pillars of the Restoration. But sadly, many Church members know little about him except that he was martyred with his brother in Carthage Jail. (M. Russell Ballard, “Hyrum Smith: ‘Firm as the Pillars of Heaven,’” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 7)

The Red Crystal

Jan 26 2021

Translating the Gold Plates

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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).

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

Christmas Around the World

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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

Oct 14 2020

3 Nephi 20-26

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3 Nephi CHAPTER 20 Jesus provides bread and wine miraculously and again administers the sacrament unto the people—The remnant of Jacob will come to the knowledge of the Lord their God and will inherit the Americas—Jesus is the prophet like unto Moses, and the Nephites are children of the prophets—Others of the Lord’s people will be gathered to Jerusalem. About A.D. 34.

3 Nephi CHAPTER 21 Israel will be gathered when the Book of Mormon comes forth—The Gentiles will be established as a free people in America—They will be saved if they believe and obey; otherwise, they will be cut off and destroyed—Israel will build the New Jerusalem, and the lost tribes will return. About A.D. 34.

3 Nephi CHAPTER 22 In the last days, Zion and her stakes will be established, and Israel will be gathered in mercy and tenderness—They will triumph—Compare Isaiah 54. About A.D. 34.

3 Nephi CHAPTER 23 Jesus approves the words of Isaiah—He commands the people to search the prophets—The words of Samuel the Lamanite concerning the Resurrection are added to their records. About A.D. 34.

3 Nephi CHAPTER 24 The Lord’s messenger will prepare the way for the Second Coming—Christ will sit in judgment—Israel is commanded to pay tithes and offerings—A book of remembrance is kept—Compare Malachi 3. About A.D. 34.

3 Nephi CHAPTER 25 At the Second Coming, the proud and wicked will be burned as stubble—Elijah will return before that great and dreadful day—Compare Malachi 4. About A.D. 34.

3 Nephi CHAPTER 26 Jesus expounds all things from the beginning to the end—Babes and children utter marvelous things that cannot be written—Those in the Church of Christ have all things in common among them. About A.D. 34.

Book of Mormon Stories “Chapter 46: Jesus Christ Teaches and Prays with the Nephites” Images and Video (Start video at the first image below.)

3 Nephi 20

I can pray in my heart.

3 Nephi 20:1

Friend April 2024 “Christ Praying with the Nephites” The Things Which He Prayed Cannot Be Written by Casey Childs

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

  • Ask the children to show you what they do when they pray. What do they do with their arms? their heads? their eyes? Explain that sometimes we want to talk to Heavenly Father, but we can’t kneel or close our eyes. What can we do? Read to the children from 3 Nephi 20:1: “[Jesus] commanded them that they should not cease to pray in their hearts.” Tell the children how you pray in your heart.

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

  • Draw a mouth and a heart on the board. Ask the children to point to the mouth and tell you some things they say when they pray. Then ask them to point to the heart, and explain that we can say those same things in our hearts. Testify that Heavenly Father knows our feelings and thoughts.
Friend January 2019

Friend October 2024 “Learning to Pray” You can pray anytime, anywhere, and Heavenly Father will always listen. Follow the prompts to draw and write about how praying helps you. Where do you like to pray? How do you feel when you pray?

To help family members understand that we can “pray always,” you could make a list of circumstances in which we could pray (or draw pictures to represent them). Then your family could sing a song that teaches about prayer, such as “Did You Think to Pray?” (Hymns, no. 140), replacing some of the words in the song with the words from their lists. How does the Lord bless us when we pray always? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 )

Hey, you left your room this morning
Did you think to pray?
In the name of Christ our Savior
Did you sooth for loving favor as a shield today?

When you’ve met with great temptation
Did you think to pray?
By his dying love and merit
Did you claim the Holy Spirit as your guide today?

When your heart was filled with anger
Did you think to pray?
Did you plead for grace my brother
That you might forgive another who had crossed your way

Oh, how praying rests the weary
Prayer will change the night to day
So when life seems dark and dreary
Don’t forget to pray, don’t forget to pray

3 Nephi 22

Gathering Israel

3 Nephi 22:2

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

  • After reading this verse, maybe you could make a homemade tent and talk about how the Church is like a tent in a wilderness. What might it mean to “lengthen [its] cords” and “strengthen [its] stakes”? How do we invite others to find “shelter” in the Church? (see the video “Welcome”onComeuntoChrist.org)

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

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

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

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

More Missionary Ideas Here

3 Nephi 23

I can search the scriptures diligently.

3 Nephi 23:1, 5

The Savior told the multitude to search the scriptures, and He wanted to make sure they recorded the words of the prophets (see 3 Nephi 23:1, 5–13; 26:2).

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 20-26”

  • The Savior’s instructions in 3 Nephi 23 show how important the scriptures are to Him. To help your children discover this, you could read 3 Nephi 23:1, 5 aloud and ask them to listen for a word that is repeated three times. How is searching different from just reading?

President Marion G. Romney taught that the word search “means to inquire into, study, and examine for the purpose of discovering the meaning of. How can we search the scriptures? Tell the children how you search the scriptures and what you find there.

“How can I learn more when I read the scriptures?”(April 2009 Friend)
Elder David A. Bednar shares five principles for reading the scriptures.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “3 Nephi 20–26: “Ye Are the Children of the Covenant” and 2024 Come Follow Me

  • Give each child a small card or piece of paper, and invite them to write the reference to a favorite scripture. (Give them suggestions if needed.) Let them take turns hiding their card in the room while the rest of the children cover their eyes. Ask the children to search for the scripture, and when they find it, read it together. What do we find in this scripture that is important to us (and meaningful)?

The Red Crystal

More Scripture Study Ideas Here

Family Records of Spiritual Experiences

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

  • 3 Nephi 23:6–13 If the Savior were to examine the records our family has kept, what questions might He ask us? Are there any important events or spiritual experiences that we should record? Now might be a good time to create or add to a family record and counsel together about what to include. Younger family members might enjoy decorating your record with photographs or drawings. Why is it important to record our family’s spiritual experiences?

Friend October 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Keeping a Record”

The Savior told the Nephites to keep a record of what He taught them and the things that happened to them (see 3 Nephi 23:4, 7–13). Draw or write about something good that happened to you this week. How has Heavenly Father blessed you?

3 Nephi 24

Paying tithing opens the windows of heaven.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 20-26”

  • Help your children search 3 Nephi 24:8–12 to find ways to complete this sentence: If I pay tithing, the Lord will … . You could also share an experience in which you were blessed because you paid tithing. If it would be helpful, consider writing a few amounts of money and helping your children calculate how much tithing (10 percent) to give for each amount.

The Red Crystal

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

  • If your classroom has a window, invite the children to look at it. What can come into the room when the window is open? Read 3 Nephi 24:10, and explain that when we pay tithing, the “windows of heaven” open, and blessings can come into our lives.

Tithing Interactive Lessons

I’m Glad to Pay a Tithing Song: Part One and Part Two

  • This week’s activity page can help your children talk about some of the ways the Lord uses tithing to bless the members of His Church. Maybe they could draw pictures (or find pictures in Church magazines) of ways tithing blesses them.

Color the pictures, then cut out the circle and the spinner. Attach the spinner to the center of the circle, and rotate it to see some ways your tithing helps the Lord’s work.

Ensign October 2018 “Where Tithing Money Goes”

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

  • Junior Primay: Show the children 10 coins (or other small objects). Invite them to count the coins with you. Testify that everything we have is a blessing from Heavenly Father. Separate one coin, and explain that when we pay tithing, we give back to Heavenly Father one-tenth of what we earn. Show pictures that represent how tithing is used to bless the Lord’s Church (such as building temples, spreading the gospel, and so on; see Gospel Art Book, nos. 109–10, 118–19).

Friend October 2020 “Funstuff: Tithing Time”Count the coins. For every 10 that you count, color one.

  • Senior Primary: Write a few money amounts on the board, and help the children calculate how much tithing (10 percent) we should give for each amount. Show them how to fill out a tithing donation slip.

Friend September 2017 “Blessings of Tithing” Paying tithing means giving 10 percent of what we earn to the Lord. Move the decimal one spot to the left to find out how much these kids would pay for tithing.

  • Sing together a song about tithing, like “I Want to Give the Lord My Tenth” (Children’s Songbook, 150). Point out phrases that teach why we pay tithing.

Friend October 2024 “What is Tithing”

Media Library “Come Create with Me | Games | Tithing”

Come Follow Me Kid has a tithing game, visual aids, a printable to make a tithing box, and lesson ideas.

Latter Day Kids lesson ideas

More ideas for what tithing is used for can be found here

3 Nephi 25

Heavenly Father wants me to learn about my ancestors.

As prophesied in these verses, Elijah has restored the sealing keys that let us be with our families for eternity. How will you inspire your children to search for and learn about their ancestors? How can you encourage your children to perform (temple) ordinances for their ancestors when they are older?

3 Nephi 25:5–6

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “3 Nephi 20-26”

  • (Tell the children that 3 Nephi 25:5–6 contains a prophecy about an event that would happen in the latter days. Invite them to read these verses to find out what it was. Testify that this prophecy has been fulfilled, and invite the children to read about it in Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–16(see also Gospel Art Book, no. 95). Explain that when we learn about our ancestors and do temple work for them, our hearts are turning to our fathers.)
 Gospel Art Book, no. 95
  • Younger children could put their hand on their heart every time they hear the word “heart” as you read these verses. 3 Nephi 25:5–6 (Explain that Heavenly Father wants “the children”—all of us—to learn about and feel love for “the fathers”—our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.)

Friend August 2002 “The Heart of the Children” Fold the hearts in half, and glue each half to a half of a different heart (see illustration).

  • Help your children fill out a family tree with names of their parents and grandparents. (Encourage them to ask their parents to help them add more names.) What stories could you share about one of your ancestors? Show pictures if possible. You could also sing together “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188) and talk with your children about why families are important in Heavenly Father’s plan.

Book of Mormon Seminary Student Manual (2024) “3 Nephi 25”

Friend July 2023 “My Family Tree”

Friend September 2019 “Family History, Step by Step” Mei finds a photo of her great-great grandmother and learns more about her. Then she and her mom put the information she had learned onto familysearch.org. Finally, Mei went to the temple as was baptized for her.

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

  • How will you help your family members turn their hearts to their fathers? Maybe you could assign family members to learn about one of your ancestors and share with the rest of the family what they learn (see FamilySearch.org). Or you could work together to find an ancestor who needs temple ordinances and plan a temple trip to perform those ordinances.

Friend October 2024 “5 Ways to Do Family History”

Ensign October 2022 “Turning Our Hearts Here are some fun ideas that can help even the youngest members of your family learn about your heritage—all from the comfort of your home.

More Family History Ideas Here

Additional Resources

Book of Mormon Stories for Young Readers “Faithful People Followed Jesus”

The Cozy Red Cottage

The Red Crystal

Oct 7 2020

Sabbath Day: Songs

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The Sabbath Day

Friend August 2017 “The Sabbath Day: I Can Play It” Words and sheet music

  • Hands are still, heart is full, as I think about what I hear. When I take the sacrament, I can feel the Savior near.
  • I prepare long before Sunday morning comes once again. I am confident and clean; I’ve repented of my sins.
  • In my home, I’ll be kind and invite the Spirit to stay, Making Sunday a delight, not like any other day.
  • On this day I’ll choose the right And remember Jesus Christ, Serve my Savior by the way That I keep the Sabbath day.

Saturday is a Special Day

Remember the Sabbath

Sabbath Day Holy Lesson “Item 5” Song teaching ideas