Church at Christmas

A while ago I promised to write about this year’s Christmas service as it proved to be interesting for a variety of reasons. I remember lots of times around various holidays spent at church. We’re church-going folk and always have been. When I was a kid I once played Joseph in a short little Christmas play in the middle of mass. As the children in my family slowly grew up we became less and less likely to attend the mass celebrated at an earlier hour meant for children. The largest reason for our decision to attend at another service was … Continue reading

Sometimes, They Just Need a Witness

I find with my children that sometimes they need very tangible things from me: they need me to cook for them or make sure the bills get paid or they need me to buy them new shoes or make sure they get to the dentist. Other times, however, what my children need from me is for me to simply be there, be available and be a witness to the trials, joys and realities of their lives. I actually think that we all often just need someone to witness our lives. Perhaps that is what drives us to establish friendships, stay … Continue reading

Standing Out

A few years ago I moved to a new area, and there was a family that lived in the apartment above me. We would exchange hellos, but nothing really went beyond that. However, there was something familiar about them. I was almost certain that they were members of the church. One day I sat outside reading “The Ensign” while my daughter played on the lawn. As the mother walked by she noticed my magazine and then asked if I was LDS. I answered yes. She went on to explain that they were only in this apartment for a few months, … Continue reading

Standing as a Witness of Christ

One of the most important covenants we make, as we become members of the church, is to stand as a witness of Christ. This can be a daunting thought. As you consider what it takes to stand as a witness of Christ, you may be wondering exactly what that entails. The first step in being able to stand as a witness of Christ is to understand what Christ taught us. It is important to study His teachings. You can learn about Christ through daily study of the scriptures. As thoughts and feelings come to you, you can pray to learn … Continue reading

Trials and Faith: The First Christian Martyr

I’d like to share the story of Stephen that took place about 34 AD. Mention of him can be found in Acts chapter 6 and 7 of the Bible. He was said to be a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. He had the power of the Holy Spirit working through him, and was full of wisdom. There were men who came to take Stephen to council because he put Jesus over the customs of Moses. As Stephen gave his testimony in front of the council, it was said they saw his face as the face of an … Continue reading

Reaching Out

There’s a mission field just outside your door. There may even be one inside your home. Have you ever thought of your family, friends and neighbors as a mission field? God has placed you exactly where you are, so you can reach out to those around you with the truth of the gospel. In a recent survey in America, 89 percent of those who did not go to church have at least one close friend who is a Christian. If you are a Christian, stop for a moment and think. How many non Christians can you number in your circle … Continue reading

Drew Carey Under Fire After Blowing Off Miracle “Price is Right” Win

Well, that was awkward… to put it mildly. A Christmas miracle occurred on CBS’ “The Price is Right” yesterday and host Drew Carey could not have cared less. It was a feat that hasn’t happened in more than 30 years. A couple days ago a contestant on “The Price is Right” nailed the price of his showcase down to the exact dollar. The DOLLAR. A guy named Terry bid $23,743 on his showcase featuring a trailer, a jukebox and a host of other high priced goodies, and the actual retail price of his showcase was $23,743. Unbelievable! Actually, completely unbelievable. … Continue reading

Young Women: “Anchors of Testimony”

In “Anchors of Testimony,” Sister Mary N Cook speaks to the young women of the church. She opens the talk by describing water lilies. She explains that they grow in stagnant ponds and that they have stalks to root them firmly in place. This anchors them during the torrential storms that come their way. She compared the girls to the lilies with their anchors being their testimonies. Sister Cook then challenges the girls to pray that their testimonies may be strengthened. She urges this especially if they are having a difficult time understanding or living a principle of the gospel. … Continue reading

Marriage and Spiritual Quests

Are you and your spouse of the same faith? Did you convert to his religion in order to marry, or did she convert to yours? (If you came from different ones.) Or maybe neither of you had one before marriage and adopted one together. Or maybe you didn’t. Right after Wayne and I first got married I’d pass churches and feel guilty I didn’t have a religion. “Maybe we should see about finding a church?” I once ventured. “Maybe we shouldn’t. Why start going now anyway? You never wanted to before.” I couldn’t put my finger on what was happening … Continue reading

Young Women: “All Times, in All Places, in All Things”

In her talk “All Times, in All Things, in All Places” Sister Elaine S Dalton speaks to the young women. She was called to be the General President of the Young Women during this session of conference. Sister Dalton opens her talk by emphasizing the Christ came to this earth with a mission, and he stayed focus on that mission his entire life. Sister Dalton teaches that we are here at this time for a specific reason. There are many blessings that can be found through the gospel. It is important to stay focused and steadfast on the right things … Continue reading