Some years ago Albert Peters told of the experience he and his companion had of a man being born again. One day they went to the hut of Atiati in the village of Sasina in Samoa. There they found an unshaven, misshapen man lying on a bed. He wanted to hear their message. They presented the first discussion, bore witness to him, and then left. As they walked away, they discussed Atiati’s condition; he had had polio 22 years before that had left him without the use of his arms or legs, so how could he ever be baptized, being so completely disabled?
When they visited their new friend the next day, he was bright and clean-shaven; even his bedding had been changed. “Today,” he said, “I begin to live again, because yesterday my prayers were answered. … I have waited for more than 20 years for someone to come and tell me that they have the true gospel of Christ.”
For several weeks the two missionaries taught this sincere, intelligent man. He asked them to fast with him so that he would have the strength to go down into the water and be baptized. The nearest baptismal font was eight miles (13 km) away. So they carried him to their car and drove him to the chapel. Then Elder Peters and his companion picked up Atiati and carried him to the font. Atiati said, “Please, put me down. This is the most important event in my life. I know without a doubt in my mind that this is the only way to eternal salvation. I will not be carried to my salvation!” So they lowered Atiati to the ground. After a huge effort, he managed to pull himself up. The man who had lain 20 years without moving was now standing. Slowly, one shaky step at a time, Atiati went down the steps and into the water, where the astonished missionary took him by the hand and baptized him.
He told Elder Peters that he knew that he would be able to walk on the morning of his baptism. He said, “Since faith can move a stubborn mountain, I had no doubt in my mind that it would mend these limbs of mine.” (See “One Trembling Step at a Time,” Ensign, June 1994, 56–58.) I believe we can say that Atiati was truly born again!
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Born Again through Baptism
Elder Albert Peters and his companion taught Atiati, a man in Samoa disabled by polio for 22 years, who eagerly embraced the gospel. On the day of his baptism, he refused to be carried, stood for the first time in decades, and walked shakily into the font. He testified he knew he would be able to walk that morning, trusting that faith would heal his limbs. President Faust concludes that Atiati was truly born again.
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👤 Missionaries
👤 Other
Baptism
Conversion
Disabilities
Faith
Fasting and Fast Offerings
Miracles
Missionary Work
Prayer
Service
Testimony
Friend to Friend
At the end of World War II during Navy training near San Diego, an officer promised a day in town to those who could swim. Some men falsely claimed they could and were taken to the pool, where they were pushed into the deep end and rescued only after struggling. The officer rebuked them for lying, teaching the narrator the importance of honesty.
I was in the Navy at the end of World War II, when I was a very young man. My training took place near San Diego, California. Everyone in the Navy had to know how to swim, or they wouldn’t let him out of boot camp (training camp). I had learned to swim as a boy and could do it quite well.
One day an officer said, “All of you who can swim get to go to San Diego for the day. Those who can’t must have a full day of swimming lessons. So those of you who can swim, line up over here, and we’ll put you on a bus and take you into town.” I lined up with the swimmers—there were about thirty or forty of us. But instead of having my group get on a bus, the officer marched us into the gym, where the swimming pool was.
I thought, You’re mixed up, fellow. We’re the ones who can swim. But, of course, I said nothing. We prepared for swimming and were ordered to jump into the deep end of the pool.
Most of us obeyed, but about ten men in our group didn’t know how to swim. They had thought that they could go to San Diego without measuring up. The officer didn’t let them just stand there—he pushed them into the water. He let them go under the water, come up gasping for air, and then go down again. When they came up for the second time, a big bamboo pole was held out to them, and they were pulled to safety. Then the officer said sternly, “Don’t you ever lie to me again!” I tell you, I was glad I hadn’t tried that! The experience taught me the value of being honest and true to yourself at all times.
One day an officer said, “All of you who can swim get to go to San Diego for the day. Those who can’t must have a full day of swimming lessons. So those of you who can swim, line up over here, and we’ll put you on a bus and take you into town.” I lined up with the swimmers—there were about thirty or forty of us. But instead of having my group get on a bus, the officer marched us into the gym, where the swimming pool was.
I thought, You’re mixed up, fellow. We’re the ones who can swim. But, of course, I said nothing. We prepared for swimming and were ordered to jump into the deep end of the pool.
Most of us obeyed, but about ten men in our group didn’t know how to swim. They had thought that they could go to San Diego without measuring up. The officer didn’t let them just stand there—he pushed them into the water. He let them go under the water, come up gasping for air, and then go down again. When they came up for the second time, a big bamboo pole was held out to them, and they were pulled to safety. Then the officer said sternly, “Don’t you ever lie to me again!” I tell you, I was glad I hadn’t tried that! The experience taught me the value of being honest and true to yourself at all times.
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👤 Young Adults
👤 Other
Agency and Accountability
Honesty
War
They Spoke to Us
President Thomas S. Monson recounts attending a mortuary after a close friend, a young mother, passed away. Her youngest child, Kelly, took his hand, led him to the casket, and testified calmly about life after death and eternal family bonds. Monson reflects that her testimony banished hopelessness and affirmed joy through the promise of resurrection.
President Thomas S. Monson, Second Counselor in the First Presidency: “Several years ago, the Salt Lake City newspapers published an obituary notice of a close friend—a mother and wife taken by death in the prime of her life. I visited the mortuary and joined a host of persons gathered to express condolence to the distraught husband and motherless children. Suddenly the smallest child, Kelly, recognized me and took my hand in hers.
“‘Come with me,’ she said; and she led me to the casket. … ‘I’m not crying, Brother Monson, and neither must you. My mommy told me many times about death and life with Heavenly Father. I belong to my mommy and my daddy. We’ll all be together again.’
“… To my young friend, … there would never be a hopeless dawn. Sustained by her unfailing testimony, knowing that life continues beyond the grave, she, her father, her brothers, her sisters, and indeed all who share this knowledge of divine truth, can declare to the world: ‘Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning’ (Ps. 30:5).” (Sunday morning session)
“‘Come with me,’ she said; and she led me to the casket. … ‘I’m not crying, Brother Monson, and neither must you. My mommy told me many times about death and life with Heavenly Father. I belong to my mommy and my daddy. We’ll all be together again.’
“… To my young friend, … there would never be a hopeless dawn. Sustained by her unfailing testimony, knowing that life continues beyond the grave, she, her father, her brothers, her sisters, and indeed all who share this knowledge of divine truth, can declare to the world: ‘Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning’ (Ps. 30:5).” (Sunday morning session)
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👤 General Authorities (Modern)
👤 Children
👤 Parents
Apostle
Children
Death
Faith
Family
Grief
Hope
Plan of Salvation
Testimony
Ask Yourself
A teen describes a favorite family activity: watching Church history movies together after church. Through this shared routine, they learn and feel closer as a family.
One of our favorite things to do as a family is to sit around after church and watch Church history movies. We learn a lot and come together as a family.Michael Lahusky, 18Navarre Ward, Pensacola Florida Stake
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👤 Youth
👤 Parents
👤 Children
Family
Movies and Television
Teaching the Gospel
Those Awesome Australians
Emily volunteered with a community group to help younger Brownie Scouts called Gum Nuts. The first weeks were difficult as she adjusted. Over time she got used to it, and the children began hugging her when they met.
Emily Kuhn, 12, Darwin: “Through a community organization, I volunteered to help the younger Brownie Scouts, ages five to seven. They’re called Gum Nuts. The first couple of weeks was a bit difficult, but then I got used to it. Now when I meet one of the Gum Nuts, they come around and hug me.”
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👤 Youth
👤 Children
Children
Friendship
Kindness
Service
Young Women
My Cooking Goal
A child set a goal from the Children’s Guidebook to learn cooking with their father. They shopped for ingredients and the father taught step by step how to bake a cake and other dishes, including the rule to avoid phone distractions while cooking. As they worked on the goal, they grew closer, the child felt joy in cooking, and believed Heavenly Father helps them grow their talents.
I wanted to get better at cooking. So when I got my Children’s Guidebook, I set a goal to cook with my dad. Whenever my father would cook, I watched him and saw how cool it was. I wanted to learn to cook like him.
My dad and I went to the store to buy ingredients. Then he taught me step by step how to turn flour into a beautiful cake. Later he also taught me how to make other things.
Working on this goal has helped me be closer to my dad. I love spending time with him! He has been a great teacher. One thing he taught me was that when we’re cooking, I can’t be distracted on my cell phone!
Now when I think of cooking, the feeling that explodes inside me is joy, because I love cooking! This goal helps me not only do something I love but grow spiritually too. I like that I get to choose my own goals. Heavenly Father wants to help me with this goal because He wants me to grow my talents. He wants to help me because He knows it makes me happy.
My dad and I went to the store to buy ingredients. Then he taught me step by step how to turn flour into a beautiful cake. Later he also taught me how to make other things.
Working on this goal has helped me be closer to my dad. I love spending time with him! He has been a great teacher. One thing he taught me was that when we’re cooking, I can’t be distracted on my cell phone!
Now when I think of cooking, the feeling that explodes inside me is joy, because I love cooking! This goal helps me not only do something I love but grow spiritually too. I like that I get to choose my own goals. Heavenly Father wants to help me with this goal because He wants me to grow my talents. He wants to help me because He knows it makes me happy.
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👤 Parents
👤 Children
Agency and Accountability
Children
Faith
Family
Happiness
Parenting
Self-Reliance
Margaret Cummings
Margaret and Don in Australia sacrificed and prayed for funds to travel to the New Zealand temple for sealing. Miracles provided the needed money and alternative travel after a boat crash. They met the prophet, received a promise of blessings, were sealed, and later Don obtained a better job despite having quit his previous one. Their faith and sacrifices were rewarded.
Margaret tucked her children into bed. Her son, Jeffrey, opened one eye. “Mummy, when can we go to the temple?”
Margaret kissed his forehead. “As soon as it’s finished.” She turned out the light.
Margaret was looking forward to the temple dedication too. She was excited to be sealed to her family. But the temple was far away in New Zealand. It would cost a lot of money to travel from their home in Australia. They had saved for months. They even sold their car. But they still needed 200 more pounds.
She knelt to pray. “Heavenly Father, please help us get the rest of the money we need.”
Just then her husband, Don, walked in. “I saw my father today. He apologized for not visiting us, and he gave us this.”
He handed her a piece of paper. It was a check for 100 pounds! Margaret could hardly believe it. Don’s father hadn’t talked to them in months. It was a miracle!
A few days later, Margaret’s parents visited. “We’ve been saving some money,” her father said. He pressed 100 pounds into Margaret’s hand. “Have a good trip!”
Margaret smiled. They had enough money now!
There was one more problem. The trip would take six weeks. Don’s boss said he couldn’t be gone that long. After a lot of prayer, Margaret and Don decided Don would quit his job.
Finally it was time to go. Margaret and Don helped their children onto the train. They rode it for five whole days.
“Are we there yet?” Jeffrey asked Margaret.
“Not yet,” she said. “Now we’ll take the boat to New Zealand.”
But there was more bad news. The boat had crashed. It wasn’t taking passengers. Had they come this far for nothing?
No! Margaret’s prayers were answered again. Someone gave them plane tickets. Soon Margaret and her family were flying over the ocean. Next stop, New Zealand!
When Margaret finally stepped inside the temple, her heart was warm. She even got to shake the prophet’s hand. “Heavenly Father will bless your family because you chose to come here,” he said.
Later, Margaret and her family dressed in white. They knelt around an altar to be sealed. Margaret beamed. Now they could be together forever!
When they got home, Margaret and Don had only 5 pounds left. But Margaret remembered the prophet’s promise. Heavenly Father would bless them.
And He did! The next week, Don came home with happy news. “I got a job! It’s even better than the one I had before.”
Margaret hugged him tight. She knew going to the temple would always be worth it.
Margaret kissed his forehead. “As soon as it’s finished.” She turned out the light.
Margaret was looking forward to the temple dedication too. She was excited to be sealed to her family. But the temple was far away in New Zealand. It would cost a lot of money to travel from their home in Australia. They had saved for months. They even sold their car. But they still needed 200 more pounds.
She knelt to pray. “Heavenly Father, please help us get the rest of the money we need.”
Just then her husband, Don, walked in. “I saw my father today. He apologized for not visiting us, and he gave us this.”
He handed her a piece of paper. It was a check for 100 pounds! Margaret could hardly believe it. Don’s father hadn’t talked to them in months. It was a miracle!
A few days later, Margaret’s parents visited. “We’ve been saving some money,” her father said. He pressed 100 pounds into Margaret’s hand. “Have a good trip!”
Margaret smiled. They had enough money now!
There was one more problem. The trip would take six weeks. Don’s boss said he couldn’t be gone that long. After a lot of prayer, Margaret and Don decided Don would quit his job.
Finally it was time to go. Margaret and Don helped their children onto the train. They rode it for five whole days.
“Are we there yet?” Jeffrey asked Margaret.
“Not yet,” she said. “Now we’ll take the boat to New Zealand.”
But there was more bad news. The boat had crashed. It wasn’t taking passengers. Had they come this far for nothing?
No! Margaret’s prayers were answered again. Someone gave them plane tickets. Soon Margaret and her family were flying over the ocean. Next stop, New Zealand!
When Margaret finally stepped inside the temple, her heart was warm. She even got to shake the prophet’s hand. “Heavenly Father will bless your family because you chose to come here,” he said.
Later, Margaret and her family dressed in white. They knelt around an altar to be sealed. Margaret beamed. Now they could be together forever!
When they got home, Margaret and Don had only 5 pounds left. But Margaret remembered the prophet’s promise. Heavenly Father would bless them.
And He did! The next week, Don came home with happy news. “I got a job! It’s even better than the one I had before.”
Margaret hugged him tight. She knew going to the temple would always be worth it.
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👤 Parents
👤 Children
👤 General Authorities (Modern)
👤 Church Members (General)
Children
Covenant
Employment
Faith
Family
Miracles
Prayer
Sacrifice
Sealing
Temples
What My Teachers Taught Me
Under teacher Ellis “Red” Wade, the author struggled to build a piano stool and hall tree in shop class, producing awkward results. His mother hid the hall tree and his father used the stool for milking, highlighting his limitations with manual crafts. Mr. Wade recognized the author’s physical abilities, guiding him toward athletics while emphasizing balanced development.
Still another teacher taught me that the ultimate discovery in growing up is the discovery of oneself, when one comes face-to-face with his own limitations and, simultaneously, has his eyes opened to his talents.
Ellis “Red” Wade helped me make this discovery. He tested my manual skills (and his patience) by having me construct a piano stool and hall tree in a year of shop work. I labored endlessly. Nothing would fit together or vaguely resemble the paper sketches. It was apparent that building things with my hands was not one of my endowments. When I took my handiwork home, Mother positioned my hall tree behind a door where it served a purpose without being seen. My dad, I think, used the piano stool in milking the cow.
Fortunately, Mr. Wade could see I possessed physical skills and coordination. He taught me to respect my body and to strive toward athletic goals. He, and later Coach Staples, transfused me with the desire to strive for excellence in various forms of competition. This was not done in a lopsided fashion. They were always advocates of balance between physical and mental pursuits. I thank them for helping me follow this inspired direction: “Let no man despise thy youth; … Neglect not the gift that is in thee … Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all” (1 Tim. 4:12, 14–15).
Ellis “Red” Wade helped me make this discovery. He tested my manual skills (and his patience) by having me construct a piano stool and hall tree in a year of shop work. I labored endlessly. Nothing would fit together or vaguely resemble the paper sketches. It was apparent that building things with my hands was not one of my endowments. When I took my handiwork home, Mother positioned my hall tree behind a door where it served a purpose without being seen. My dad, I think, used the piano stool in milking the cow.
Fortunately, Mr. Wade could see I possessed physical skills and coordination. He taught me to respect my body and to strive toward athletic goals. He, and later Coach Staples, transfused me with the desire to strive for excellence in various forms of competition. This was not done in a lopsided fashion. They were always advocates of balance between physical and mental pursuits. I thank them for helping me follow this inspired direction: “Let no man despise thy youth; … Neglect not the gift that is in thee … Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all” (1 Tim. 4:12, 14–15).
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👤 Youth
👤 Other
👤 Parents
Education
Gratitude
Health
Patience
Self-Reliance
Young Men
I Needed to Serve Her
After the author gave birth, Margaret Blackburn, the ward Relief Society president, repeatedly brought meals, even as her own health declined. Later diagnosed with terminal cancer and released from her calling, Margaret became the recipient of the author's weekly service in cleaning her home. Through this exchange of service, the author felt God had orchestrated opportunities that deepened their bond. The experience taught the author that service links people in love and gratitude.
When I was pregnant with my youngest child, Margaret Blackburn served as our ward Relief Society president. We knew each other only from the little time we shared during meetings at church.
After I delivered my baby, women brought meals that first week, including Margaret, who was older and frail. I was grateful because I had no energy or desire to plan a meal, cook, or shop for ingredients—let alone all three.
After that first week, Margaret continued to bring meals. Whether they were home-cooked meals or leftovers from a ward activity, it didn’t matter to me. It was almost as if she knew that more than I needed someone to hold my baby or clean my home, I needed the blessing of not having to think about what was for dinner.
A short while later, Margaret was released from her calling because of failing health. I didn’t know it at the time, but she had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Once I learned of her diagnosis, I knew what I needed to do. I needed to serve her—not because I owed it to her or needed to repay her kindness. Rather, because of her service to me, I had grown to love her.
Margaret had taught me that through service, we truly become connected. When I thought of this incredible woman, my heart ached to think of her pushing a vacuum or sweeping her kitchen floor. So, each week I began visiting her and cleaning her home.
One day while driving home afterward, I became overwhelmed with gratitude that Heavenly Father had orchestrated these charitable opportunities. If Margaret had not served me so diligently, I probably would not have been comfortable making regular visits to her home. I came to cherish that time with her! God knew that by sending her to me in my time of need, the path would be paved for me to serve her in her time of need.
My eyes filled with tears as I realized how perfectly these inspirations and service opportunities had forever linked us.
After I delivered my baby, women brought meals that first week, including Margaret, who was older and frail. I was grateful because I had no energy or desire to plan a meal, cook, or shop for ingredients—let alone all three.
After that first week, Margaret continued to bring meals. Whether they were home-cooked meals or leftovers from a ward activity, it didn’t matter to me. It was almost as if she knew that more than I needed someone to hold my baby or clean my home, I needed the blessing of not having to think about what was for dinner.
A short while later, Margaret was released from her calling because of failing health. I didn’t know it at the time, but she had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Once I learned of her diagnosis, I knew what I needed to do. I needed to serve her—not because I owed it to her or needed to repay her kindness. Rather, because of her service to me, I had grown to love her.
Margaret had taught me that through service, we truly become connected. When I thought of this incredible woman, my heart ached to think of her pushing a vacuum or sweeping her kitchen floor. So, each week I began visiting her and cleaning her home.
One day while driving home afterward, I became overwhelmed with gratitude that Heavenly Father had orchestrated these charitable opportunities. If Margaret had not served me so diligently, I probably would not have been comfortable making regular visits to her home. I came to cherish that time with her! God knew that by sending her to me in my time of need, the path would be paved for me to serve her in her time of need.
My eyes filled with tears as I realized how perfectly these inspirations and service opportunities had forever linked us.
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👤 Church Leaders (Local)
👤 Parents
Charity
Death
Gratitude
Love
Ministering
Relief Society
Service
Does Standing in Holy Places Really Make a Difference?
As a teenager in India, the author and her family were introduced to the Church by their neighbors. She was baptized first, followed by some siblings and eventually her parents. Having a family foundation of faith helped her stay strong despite few local members.
When I was a teenager, my neighbors introduced me and my family to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I ended up getting baptized, then some of my siblings joined, and eventually my parents did too. There aren’t many members of the Church in my area of India, so it was nice to have such a solid foundation of support from loved ones at home. They made it easy to keep my faith strong.
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👤 Church Members (General)
👤 Parents
👤 Youth
Baptism
Conversion
Faith
Family
Missionary Work
“How do I answer my friends’ questions about the temple when I don’t know much about it myself?”
Lydia prays for guidance on how to answer friends’ temple questions. When a friend asks, she explains that baptisms are performed for deceased ancestors who didn't have the chance to accept the gospel in life, and that they can choose to accept or reject the ordinance in heaven.
To answer my friends’ questions, I first pray to Heavenly Father about what to say. It may take a lot of patience, but it is worth waiting for the Spirit to prompt you in what to say. Second, go to church and to the temple baptistry to receive more spiritual knowledge. When my friend asked questions about the temple, I told her that baptisms are done for our deceased ancestors who didn’t have a chance to be part of the gospel while they were alive. Then in heaven they have the choice to accept or reject the ordinance.
Lydia P., 13, Florida, USA
Lydia P., 13, Florida, USA
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👤 Youth
👤 Friends
Agency and Accountability
Baptisms for the Dead
Family History
Holy Ghost
Prayer
Temples
Romanian Aid
After seeing images of starvation in Romania, young women in a Welsh ward felt compelled to act. They organized an auction by soliciting donations of money, goods, and services from local businesses. The event drew a large crowd, and the funds provided food, medicine, and clothing for those in need.
When the young women of the Swansea First Ward, Merthyr Tydfil Wales Stake, saw pictures of people starving in Romania, they wanted to help.
So they went to local business and asked for donations—not just money, but also products and services—for an auction at the ward house. It seemed like everyone in town came, and money went to buy much-needed food, medicine, and clothing.
So they went to local business and asked for donations—not just money, but also products and services—for an auction at the ward house. It seemed like everyone in town came, and money went to buy much-needed food, medicine, and clothing.
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👤 Youth
👤 Church Members (General)
👤 Other
Charity
Emergency Response
Service
Young Women
Dan Jones (1810–62)
On the night before Joseph Smith was killed in Carthage Jail, he asked Dan Jones if he feared death. Dan expressed courage, and Joseph prophesied that Dan would yet see Wales and fulfill a mission. The next year, Dan and his wife were called to serve in Wales, fulfilling the prophecy.
Dan’s missions fulfilled Joseph Smith’s last recorded prophecy. The night before the Prophet Joseph Smith was killed, he heard gunfire outside the window of Carthage Jail, so he chose to sleep on the floor. Near him was Dan Jones. The Prophet asked Dan if he was afraid to die. He replied, “Has that time come, think you? Engaged in such a cause I do not think that death would have many terrors.” Then Joseph prophesied, “You will yet see Wales, and fulfill the mission appointed you before you die.”2
The Prophet’s promise was fulfilled in 1845, when Dan and his wife, Jane, were called to serve in Wales. Dan used his talent for speaking to teach the gospel with great conviction. He was fluent in Welsh and English, and witnesses recorded that he spoke so captivatingly that he could hold his audience’s attention in either language for hours.
The Prophet’s promise was fulfilled in 1845, when Dan and his wife, Jane, were called to serve in Wales. Dan used his talent for speaking to teach the gospel with great conviction. He was fluent in Welsh and English, and witnesses recorded that he spoke so captivatingly that he could hold his audience’s attention in either language for hours.
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👤 Joseph Smith
👤 Missionaries
👤 Early Saints
Courage
Death
Foreordination
Joseph Smith
Missionary Work
Revelation
Teaching the Gospel
FYI:For Your Information
In the Ontario First Ward, 23 boys earned the rank of Eagle Scout in one year after Scoutmaster Glen Banner challenged them to make it a “Year of the Eagle.” They set goals, encouraged each other, performed over 2,000 hours of community service, and were honored by the mayor with a special program featuring Elder Paul H. Dunn and Danny White.
Twenty-three boys in the Ontario First Ward, Nyssa Oregon Stake, earned the rank of Eagle in the same year.
It all started when their Scoutmaster, Glen Banner, challenged them to make it a “Year of the Eagle.” The troop set a goal to complete their Eagles before the year was up. Each had to set intermediate goals, and each encouraged and reminded his friends of their common goal. Several mothers made a banner proclaiming the “Year of the Eagle” and this banner was displayed at each court of honor and all Scout activities.
As the 23 boys were ready to participate in their Eagle projects, the Scoutmaster contacted the mayor to offer the time and talents of his Scouts. In total, this single troop donated more than 2,000 hours of service to their community, doing such things as renovating playground equipment, planting shrubs, marking a segment of the Oregon Trail, and volunteering for other community service.
When their goal had been reached, a special program was held honoring the troop. The mayor made a proclamation, and special speakers were Elder Paul H. Dunn, of the First Quorum of the Seventy, and Danny White, quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys football team.
It all started when their Scoutmaster, Glen Banner, challenged them to make it a “Year of the Eagle.” The troop set a goal to complete their Eagles before the year was up. Each had to set intermediate goals, and each encouraged and reminded his friends of their common goal. Several mothers made a banner proclaiming the “Year of the Eagle” and this banner was displayed at each court of honor and all Scout activities.
As the 23 boys were ready to participate in their Eagle projects, the Scoutmaster contacted the mayor to offer the time and talents of his Scouts. In total, this single troop donated more than 2,000 hours of service to their community, doing such things as renovating playground equipment, planting shrubs, marking a segment of the Oregon Trail, and volunteering for other community service.
When their goal had been reached, a special program was held honoring the troop. The mayor made a proclamation, and special speakers were Elder Paul H. Dunn, of the First Quorum of the Seventy, and Danny White, quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys football team.
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👤 Youth
👤 Church Leaders (Local)
👤 General Authorities (Modern)
👤 Other
Friendship
Service
Unity
Young Men
Childviews
Samone and her family prayed at the table for a baby for two years. Eventually, her baby sister Savannah was born. Samone expresses gratitude and testifies that Heavenly Father answers prayers.
When my family and I sat at the table, we always prayed for a baby. We prayed for two years! Finally my baby sister came! We named her Savannah. Now I am thankful. I know that Heavenly Father answers my prayers.
Samone Isom, age 7Bozeman, Montana
Samone Isom, age 7Bozeman, Montana
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👤 Children
👤 Parents
Children
Faith
Family
Gratitude
Prayer
Testimony
The Power of Light and Truth
As a young boy, the speaker experimented with a flashlight in the dark, in a dusty barn, and finally against his palm. Seeing his hand glow, he realized the light seemed to be within him. He uses this experience to introduce the greater importance of discovering spiritual light and truth.
As a young boy I discovered amazing power in a small flashlight. Turning it on at night, I saw a large lighted spot wherever I pointed it. My excitement increased when shining the flashlight inside a dusty barn. A cone of light was projected through the air. But the most interesting discovery came when I pressed the flashlight firmly against the palm of my hand. My entire hand glowed in the dark. The light was actually within me! To observe the physical properties of light can be exciting, but discovering the properties of spiritual light and truth is even more awe inspiring and essential.
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👤 Children
Children
Light of Christ
Truth
New Summer Friends
When groups of ten were formed for the reading effort, captains were hesitant about the responsibility. Blair Phelps, aware of the demands from his sister’s prior experience as a captain, still chose to accept the role. He joined seven others in serving as captains for the youth groups.
Each group of ten was assigned a captain. At first the captains weren’t really sure they wanted the responsibility. Blair Phelps had a little insider’s knowledge about what they were up against. His sister had been a captain the year before, so he knew what was involved. But he agreed, joining seven others as the captains.
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👤 Youth
Agency and Accountability
Stewardship
Read Your Book of Mormon
After their daughter was stillborn in 2010, the narrator, grieving at home, was moved by a poster’s message to pray and felt prompted by the Holy Ghost to reread the Book of Mormon. Rising early to study daily, they marked passages on faith, prayer, and Christ and felt peace and answers. Reading Moroni 8 brought a powerful witness that little children are alive in Christ, giving the narrator strength and renewed hope for eternal family reunion through the Atonement and temple covenants.
We were supposed to be filled with joy, but our hearts were heavy and our arms were empty. Debra Caelia Carter arrived on her due date, April 26, 2010, but she was stillborn.
As we walked into our home, I carried the tiny pink blanket we had used to hold and cuddle Debra at the hospital. When I sat on the couch, overcome with emotion, our two-year-old son approached the empty blanket and whispered, “Hello, baby sister. I love you.”
Tears streamed down my face, and I turned away. As I did so, I saw the words of a poster from the Friend magazine hanging on the wall: “Our Heavenly Father is only a prayer away, and the Holy Ghost is within whispering distance.”1
I began to pour out my heart to God in silent, fervent prayer. As I did so, I felt the Holy Ghost whisper, “Read your Book of Mormon again.” I had just finished reading it, but the feeling was distinct and the impression clear.
Arising early the following morning, I began reading the Book of Mormon. I used pencils and markers to highlight every passage about faith, prayer, hope, Jesus Christ’s attributes, preaching the gospel, and hearkening to the Lord’s voice. I knew that I must do what Nephi, Enos, Moroni, and other Book of Mormon prophets had done when they suffered trials. And I must do it with the same love for the Savior that filled their lives during difficult times.
During these daily, personal scripture study hours, I felt the Lord’s arms encircling me in His love, and I felt the power of His atoning sacrifice for all. The Spirit spoke to me, a peace covered me, and answers came to my fervent prayers. Pondering the words I read gave me strength as I grieved.
One day the Spirit filled me with joy as I read these words:
“I love little children with a perfect love; and they are all alike and partakers of salvation. …
“Little children … are all alive in [God] because of his mercy. …
“For behold that all little children are alive in Christ” (Moroni 8:17, 19, 22; emphasis added).
I felt as if I could see my daughter alive in Christ—smiling and happy and encircled in His arms. From that moment on I felt the power to endure, and I felt a new hope ignite in my soul for my family. I knew that if we would hold fast to the Atonement, the scriptures, the words of the living prophets, and each other through our temple covenants, we would be reunited as a family eternally.
I love the Book of Mormon, which clearly testifies of Jesus Christ, what He did and does for us, and what we must do to be like Him. The Book of Mormon brings light to my life and fills up my heart with hope in Christ.
As we walked into our home, I carried the tiny pink blanket we had used to hold and cuddle Debra at the hospital. When I sat on the couch, overcome with emotion, our two-year-old son approached the empty blanket and whispered, “Hello, baby sister. I love you.”
Tears streamed down my face, and I turned away. As I did so, I saw the words of a poster from the Friend magazine hanging on the wall: “Our Heavenly Father is only a prayer away, and the Holy Ghost is within whispering distance.”1
I began to pour out my heart to God in silent, fervent prayer. As I did so, I felt the Holy Ghost whisper, “Read your Book of Mormon again.” I had just finished reading it, but the feeling was distinct and the impression clear.
Arising early the following morning, I began reading the Book of Mormon. I used pencils and markers to highlight every passage about faith, prayer, hope, Jesus Christ’s attributes, preaching the gospel, and hearkening to the Lord’s voice. I knew that I must do what Nephi, Enos, Moroni, and other Book of Mormon prophets had done when they suffered trials. And I must do it with the same love for the Savior that filled their lives during difficult times.
During these daily, personal scripture study hours, I felt the Lord’s arms encircling me in His love, and I felt the power of His atoning sacrifice for all. The Spirit spoke to me, a peace covered me, and answers came to my fervent prayers. Pondering the words I read gave me strength as I grieved.
One day the Spirit filled me with joy as I read these words:
“I love little children with a perfect love; and they are all alike and partakers of salvation. …
“Little children … are all alive in [God] because of his mercy. …
“For behold that all little children are alive in Christ” (Moroni 8:17, 19, 22; emphasis added).
I felt as if I could see my daughter alive in Christ—smiling and happy and encircled in His arms. From that moment on I felt the power to endure, and I felt a new hope ignite in my soul for my family. I knew that if we would hold fast to the Atonement, the scriptures, the words of the living prophets, and each other through our temple covenants, we would be reunited as a family eternally.
I love the Book of Mormon, which clearly testifies of Jesus Christ, what He did and does for us, and what we must do to be like Him. The Book of Mormon brings light to my life and fills up my heart with hope in Christ.
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👤 Jesus Christ
👤 Parents
👤 Children
Atonement of Jesus Christ
Book of Mormon
Children
Covenant
Death
Endure to the End
Faith
Family
Grief
Holy Ghost
Hope
Love
Peace
Prayer
Scriptures
Sealing
Temples
Testimony
TTS:Things They’re Saying
Seeing a friend with a serious problem, the narrator pushed hard to help. Each attempt created new 'wrinkles,' culminating in a figurative scorched result. She realized her own overheated efforts were part of the problem.
I had a friend who had a problem, and I mean a real problem.
Well, I decided I would help. Patiently, diligently, in an attempt to smoothe the wrinkled fabric of my friend’s existence, I pressed.
Somehow, when I pulled and straightened here, there was a wrinkle there.
As I caught a whiff of burnt cloth, I thought, “Cheap material,” but I couldn’t deny my reflection in the convex hull of the iron of my good intentions. Distorted, maybe, but all too visible was my own overheated soleplate.
How ironic.
Well, I decided I would help. Patiently, diligently, in an attempt to smoothe the wrinkled fabric of my friend’s existence, I pressed.
Somehow, when I pulled and straightened here, there was a wrinkle there.
As I caught a whiff of burnt cloth, I thought, “Cheap material,” but I couldn’t deny my reflection in the convex hull of the iron of my good intentions. Distorted, maybe, but all too visible was my own overheated soleplate.
How ironic.
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👤 Friends
👤 Church Members (General)
Friendship
Humility
Judging Others
Ministering
Patience
Service
Ocean Currents and Family Influences
The speaker recounts that Admiral Peary, traveling toward the North Pole, stood on a large ice floe and moved northward with his dogs. Despite his efforts, the current carried the entire floe southward even faster than he could go north.
Or, if we wish to fight the current, we may be able to do so; yet the current will inevitably have its effect. It is said that when Admiral Peary was traveling toward the North Pole, he found himself on a great ice floe as large as an island, and that as he moved northward toward the pole with his dogs, the floe was bearing him southward even faster by the current.
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👤 Other
Adversity
Agency and Accountability