General Conference: "Our Rising Generation"

by Miriam Caldwell | More from this Blogger

03 Jul 2006 07:30 PM

In "Our Rising Generation" Elder Ronald A. Rasband speaks of the importance of helping to strengthen the youth in the gospel. He opens by sharing the story of King Benjamin. He talks about the children, who could not understand the words of King Benjamin, because they were too young, began to stray from the church when they grew older. He goes on to share that the trials, which our youth will face, are becoming more difficult. He said:

"In these perilous times, as our youth are faced with this increased adversity, we can learn from others. In the armed forces, particularly in all the navies throughout the world, every seaman understands one phrase that is a clarion call for immediate help, no matter what he is doing or where he is on the ship. The call is 'All hands on deck.' Many a battle at sea has been won or lost by the response to this call.

We-as members of the Church, leaders of youth, anxious fathers, and concerned grandfathers-all need to respond to the call for "all hands on deck" as it pertains to our youth and young single adults. We must all look for opportunities to bless the youth whether or not we are currently closely associated with them. We must continue to teach and fortify fathers and mothers in their divinely declared roles with their children in the home. We must ask ourselves constantly if that extra sporting event, that extra activity or errand outside of the home is more important than families being together at home."

Elder Rasband goes on to share an experience of when he and his family moved to England. He was worried about how his children were going to adjust. Through the suggestion of the temple president he and his family were able to attend the temple together. He realized that while he had been spending time with his children, he had not spent time at the temple together. He said:

"However, I realized we had an opportunity to add more meaningful spiritual experiences with our children like what we had experienced in Preston that day. Thanks to those caring and observant priesthood leaders, I knew then that our family was going to do fine in Europe. How grateful we are for the many priesthood and Young Women leaders who have always been watchful and loving to our children and yours."

Elder Rasband calls for each of us to stand up and be an influence of good for the youth of the church. We should reach out to all those around us, not just our own children. This is an excellent talk, and I hope that you will take the time to read it.

Learn more about Miriam Caldwell

Miriam is a SAHM mom of three children. She has a daughter who is seven, and two sons, four and two. She loves being a parent and spending time with her children.

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