Glacial Park News

Bishop: Phil Smith
1st Counselor: Beck Locey
2nd Counselor: Chad Rogers
Executive Secretary: Dan Naylor

5/27/2022

4/7/2022

1/1/2022

8/28/2021

This is the class schedule for September - November at the Granite Family History Center. These classes will be taught via Zoom on Tuesdiay nights at 7:00 PM. You will find links to participate in the classes on the Granite Family History Center website (granitefhc.com). If you can't attend in person, these classes will be recorded and posted to the website later.

Classes Scheduled

14 Sept. 7:00 PM - Introduction to the Family History Guide
21 Sept. 7:00 PM - The Google Gold Mine
28 Sept. 7:00 PM - Capturing and preserving Memories with Your Phone
5 Oct. 7:00 PM - What's New in Family Search
12 Oct. 7:00 PM - The Power of Stories in Your Family History
19 Oct. 7:00PM - Facebook for your Family History
26 Oct. 7:00 PM - Getting Started with Research
2 Nov. 7:00 PM - Helping Youth Love Family History
9 Nov. 7:00 PM - Technology Trends in Family History
16 Nov. 7:00 PM - Discovering Your Ancestors in Newspapers
23 Nov. 7:00 PM - Goldie May: Your Intelligent Family History Assistant

The hours of operation for the Granite Family History Center.

Tuesday - Thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sundays 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

4/10/2021

Granite Family History Center – Spring & Summer Class Schedule
Our weekly Tuesday night classes will continue to be over zoom, as this has proven to be a very successful method allowing many to participate that cannot attend in person. Here is a list of courses being offered for you to include in your ward bulletin. Information about, and descriptions of the courses can be found at granitefhc.com/classes.

April 13 7-8 PM – Family Search Tips and Tricks
April 20 7-8 PM – Using Land and Property Records
                                  in Your Research
April 27 7-8 PM - Developing Indexing Skills
May 04 7-8 PM - Family History Resources for
                                  Latter-Day Saints
May 11 7-8 PM – Maps and Surnames
May 18 7-8 PM – Partner Overview: Ancestry,
                                 MyHeritage, FindMyPast
May 25 7-8 PM – Finding Your Ancestors in the US
                                 Census
June 1 7-8 PM – Beginning Scandinavian Research
June 8 7-8 PM – Discovering English Church
                                 Records
June 15 7-8PM – Furthering Your Family History With
               DNA Testing
June 22 7-8 PM – Beginning German Research
June 29 7-8 PM – Sharing Family History

Granite Family History Center Hours
(Beginning April 13, 2021)

Sunday       1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Tuesday        10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Wednesday    10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Thursday        10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Youth Hours   Wednesday 3:00 to 5:00

If you would like to schedule a time for your group or family to visit the center or to use the scanners, please call Jacque Fryer at 801-231-1635 or email her at [email protected].

1/5/2021

Granite Family History Center - Spring 2021 Class Schedule

These classes will be taught live, online on Tuesday evenings at 7:00PM. Patrons can link to the classes at granitefhc.com. Click on “Schedules”; then “Class Schedules” and you will find a link to the class. You will also find class descriptions at granitefhc.com. You will have access to live chat with the instructor and other patrons attending the class, and receive answers to your questions

Tues. Jan.12, 7:00 PM – Introduction to the Family History Guide
Tues. Jan.19, 7:00 PM – Researching with Newspapers
Tues. Jan.26, 7:00 PM - Learning about Family from Naturalization Records
Tues. Feb. 2, 7:00 PM – Using European Archives
Tues. Feb. 9, 7:00 PM – Fitting Family History into Your Life
Tues. Feb. 16, 7:00 PM – Basic Indexing Skills
Tues. Feb. 23, 7:00 PM - Beginning U. S. Research
Tues. Mar. 2, 7:00 PM – Ancestry Overview & Family Search Sync
Tues. Mar. 9, 7:00 PM – Family History for Youth
Tues. Mar. 16, 7:00 PM – Beginning Research in Central/ E. Europe
Tues. Mar. 23, 7:00 PM – Resolving Duplicates in Family Tree
Tues. Mar. 30, 7:00 PM – Beginning UK Research

Classes will be recorded and made available later, for “on demand” viewing. To access these recorded classes, go to granitefhc.com, click the “resources” tab then, click “videos and tutorials”.

06/13/2020
Under the Sacrament Meeting tab, I will post the ward program as soon as I get it. Welcome back to phase 1 church! Stay safe everyone!

-Stuart

ward_security__update_.pdf
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November Presidency Message
by Anne Draper

Bishop Robert D. Hales, now Elder Hales, shared these words in the April 1992 General Conference:
"Gratitude expressed to our Heavenly Father in prayer for what we have brings a calming peace—a peace which allows us to not canker our souls for what we don't have. Gratitude brings a peace that helps us overcome the pain of adversity and failure. Gratitude on a daily basis means we express appreciation for what we have now without qualification for what we had in the past or desire in the future. A recognition of and appreciation for our gifts and talents which have been given also allows us to acknowledge the need for help and assistance from the gifts and talents possessed by others.”

During the holidays we reflect on gratitude in church services, around the Thanksgiving dinner table, and in movies and music. I thought of a song I recently listened to, Thankful by Josh Groban. As I pondered the lyrics of this song, my mind turned to missionary work, sharing the truth that we have as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to strangers, our neighbors, friends, and family. I thought of how this action expresses not only love, but gratitude. The Savior said, “Feed my sheep” and, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15.) Elder Hales stated, “Our obedience to the laws, ordinances, and commandments is the greatest expression of love and gratitude that we can bestow upon him.” This week the missionaries are in our ward full-time. We are so blessed to have these young men to assist us in the Lord’s work.

Thankful
from the album Noel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBEI1F22uqE

Some days we forget to look around us
Some days we can’t see the joy that surrounds us
So caught up inside ourselves
We take when we should give
So, for tonight, we pray for
What we know can be
And on this day we hope for
What we still can’t see
It’s up to us to be the change
And even though we all can still do more
There’s so much to be thankful for
Look beyond ourselves, there’s so much sorrow
It’s way too late to say, I’ll cry tomorrow
Each of us must find our truth
We’re so long overdue
So, for tonight we pray for
What we know can be
And every day we hope for
What we still can’t see
It’s up to us to be the change
And even though we all can still do more
There’s so much to be thankful for
Even with our differences
There is a place we’re all connected
Each of us can find each other’s light
So for tonight, we pray for
What we know can be
And on this day we hope for
What we still can’t see
It’s up to us to be the change
And even though this world needs so much more
There’s so much to be thankful for

September Presidency Message
by McKenzie Anderson

A couple weeks ago, I was reading Hermana Megan Trapp's weekly email she sends home each P-day from this mission field in Maryland. In her email she shared a talk she'd studied that week that had impacted her. The talk was from October 2017 General Conference titled "By Divine Design" by Elder Rasband. She shared her testimony of it's truthfulness and encouraged everyone to read it.
Later that day, I had a minute to do just that, and am so grateful I did!

In this General Conference address, Elder Rasband shares, "Significant events unfold in the gospel and in the Church that further the kingdom of God on earth. They are not by accident but by God’s plan. He who fashioned this world can calm the seas with His word and can steer both Alma and Amulek and Nephi and Laban to be at the right place at precisely the right time.

Likewise, events and associations unfold in each of our lives that further God’s work on earth."

Just the night before, Braxton and I stayed up talking for a long time about certain events that have taken place in our lives that I feel are no coincidence. We talked about what we could do to use these opportunities to serve God and bless His children, our brothers and sisters, here on Earth. I had been feeling like I dropped the ball and wasn't taking this responsibility seriously. I let the adversary talk me into the idea that maybe it wasn't that big of a deal after all. It probably wouldn't really make a difference. The next day is when Hermana Trapp's email came, and it was a wake up call to say the least!

Elder Rasband quotes President Thomas S. Monson in his message and states, "There is a guiding hand above all things. Often when things happen, it’s not by accident. One day, when we look back at the seeming coincidences of our lives, we will realize that perhaps they weren’t so coincidental after all.” I needed this reminder! Lots of things in our lives happen for a specific reason, and if we'll just listen to the Spirit, pray for his guidance and have the courage to act and do hard things, we will succeed and be blessed for our efforts.

I really believe it wasn't a coincidence that Hermana Trapp encouraged us to read that talk. It was a powerful testimony builder for me that our Father in Heaven IS aware of us. He's truly in the details of our lives. I would extend the same invitation to you, to study this message! Hopefully you will feel God's perfect love for you just as I did.

August Presidency Message
by Lisa Young

As my 14th year of teaching quickly approaches, I’m faced with many decisions before students even walk through the door. For example, what are the unique needs of my students this year? What curriculum will I use? What Shakespeare play should I teach? How much time will I spend on a particular unit or concept? So many decisions. In fact, the average classroom teachers makes over 1,500 education decisions a day! When making these daily decisions, I typically keep two things in mind; first, what can I do to help my students become more efficient readers and writers and second, how can I help my students to become academically successful in order for them to be prepared for the demands of college, employment and day to day living. In other words, I always begin planning and decision making with the “end” in mind.

In an April, 2019 conference talk, President Dallin Oaks discusses a similar concept in regards to choice making. He states, “As we make current decision, we should always be asking, “Where will this lead?” Those choices include decisions between taking action or taking no action at all. These can be decisions between good and evil…and sometimes a decision between two goods. Again, we should always ask, “Where will this lead?” Some of the decisions might be simple in nature, like how we spend our time. For example, if we spend our time binge watching a T.V. series or browsing the internet, there will be an “opportunity cost.” That is, if we spend time doing one thing, we lose the opportunity to do something else.

President Oaks suggests taking the “Good, Better, Best” approach in decision making. Additionally, he recommends to take the long view – what effect will the decision make on your future? We need to look to the future when making decisions as well because sometimes sacrifices are needed (at the moment) in order to achieve a future goal.

In conclusion, we need to take the time to ponder decisions, no matter how big or small. Turning to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in prayer will always give us comfort and assurance on our path to happiness and eternal life.

July Presidency Message
by Bishop Dave Crabtree

June Presidency Message
by Katie Sorenson

There were so many great talks in the most recent General Conference, but the one that stands out the most to me was the talk on Sunday Afternoon by Elder Juan Pablo Villar on “Exercising our Spiritual Muscles.” He starts out by comparing our spiritual muscles to our physical muscles and says, “Our bodies have over 600 muscles. Many muscles require exercise in order to be in condition to perform our daily activities. We could expend much mental effort reading and learning about our muscles, but if we think this will make them stronger, we will be very disappointed. Our muscles grow only when we use them……Just as reading and learning about muscles is not enough to build muscle, reading and learning about faith without adding action is insufficient to build faith.”

He goes on to share a sweet story of his older brother being baptized and then going on a mission. He was able to go visit his older brother while the older brother was serving his mission. He had great plans of going to the beach with his brother. His older brother and the companion told him that they would be able to do that after they did a few errands and invited him along for the errands. Elder Villar spent the day with the missionaries as they shared the gospel and served others. He was blessed by the spirit as he was able to see and feel the gospel in action.

We are blessed with several spiritual gifts and talents. It is our job to exercise our spiritual muscles so that those gifts and talents can grow. Elder Villar says, “It is more likely that He will give us opportunities to develop those gifts rather than just granting them to us without spiritual and physical effort. If we are in tune with His Spirit, we will learn to identify those opportunities and then act upon them……..If we want to increase our faith, then let’s do things that require faith.”

I am grateful for the spiritual muscles that I have been given and for the opportunities and experiences that I have had as I continue to try and strengthen those muscles.

May Presidency Message
by Meg Dawson

This past General Conference, as always, was wonderful. I always look forward to General Conference weekend. I love the spirit I feel while listening to our leaders. I felt especially blessed to sit behind the general authorities in the choir loft for 15 ½ years as I had the opportunity to sing with the Tabernacle Choir during 90 sessions of General Conference. But, whether at home in my jammies or in the Conference Center, General Conference is a time I always look forward to.

With all the changes that have occurred over the past year, I think we were all looking forward with great anticipation to what great historical changes we would witness being announced in April Conference. I think many (including me, I have to admit) were a little disappointed when at the end of each session, nothing earth-shattering was announced.

As it turns out, the “big changes” we were waiting to hear about are to be found inside ourselves: We were asked to consider the changes announced in 2018 with a deeper understanding and to consider what changes we have made within ourselves.

One of the first changes made last April Conference involved “Ministering” to one another instead of Home Teaching and Visiting Teaching. We were invited to minister in a holier and higher way. Have we truly caught the vision? I know our lives and the lives of those we serve will truly be blessed as we seek for spiritual guidance as we truly minister to each other.

I think many of us shouted for joy (including me!) at having one less hour at church when our block was reduced from three to two hours. The real question for each of us now, is how are we using that extra hour? We were encouraged to use that time to strengthen gospel learning in our homes and with our families. In his closing remarks, President Nelson shared his hopes and prayers that each of our homes “will become a true sanctuary of faith, where the Spirit of the Lord may dwell, a heavenly place, where study, prayer and faith can be merged with love”. I testify that as we study the “Come Follow Me” program in our homes, we will receive these blessings.

Six new temples were announced. We now have 162 dedicated temples. There have been several inspired changes over the past few months related to our temples. It has been so exciting to witness these changes. President Nelson also remarked, “We regard a temple as the most sacred structure in the Church. As we speak of our temples old and new, may each of us signify by our actions that we are true disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. May we renovate our lives through our faith and trust in Him. May we access the power of His Atonement by our repentance each day. And may we dedicate and rededicate our lives to serving God and His children—on both sides of the veil.”

These changes and the many other changes that have been made are truly inspired. We live in such an exciting time. President Nelson said, “God's objective should be our objective. He wants His children to choose to return to Him, prepared, qualified, endowed, sealed, and faithful to covenants made in holy temples”.

I've heard it said that we are all going to have to take our vitamins to keep up with President Nelson and with the forward direction of the church. However, I believe it's vital that we make the changes in our lives that the Lord has already given us before we can be ready to receive more.
It's my prayer that we can each dedicate and rededicate our lives to serving God and His children ... each and every day. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

April Presidency Message
by Russ Smith

Last week, Tiffany Nord came and spoke to the youth of our ward. She told a story about her mission president. He explained to her that the words of the primary song “I am a child of God” were changed a number of years back. The original text said, teach me all that I must LEARN, to live with him someday. The text was then changed to teach me all that I must DO… Her president went on to explain that in his opinion the words should be changed one more time to say, teach me all that I must BE…

In a gospel sense, knowing is good. Doing is better. Becoming is best. Our testimony begins as we have faith, believe and come to know the truths of the gospel. True conversion is more. After all, the devil and his angels certainly know that Jesus is the Christ. But this knowledge does not lead them to do or become anything good. To testify is to know and to declare. The gospel challenges us to be “converted,” which requires us to do and to become. If any of us relies solely upon our knowledge and testimony of the gospel, we may not meet our divine potential.

The Final Judgment will not just be an evaluation of the sum total of good and evil deeds—what we have done. Rather, we will be able to declare how our acts and thoughts have changed us—what we have become. It is not enough for us to just go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly bank account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what God desires us to become.

Now is the time for each of us to work toward our personal conversion, toward becoming what our Heavenly Father desires us to become. As we do so, our family relationships will be strengthened. Our ability to serve in the church will improve. And best of all, we will have a greater measure of happiness and joy in our lives.

March Presidency Message
by Vaughn Cox

Why do we serve? Whom do we serve?

By Vaughn Cox

When asked why do we serve we as Latter-day Saints list a variety of answers. Some of those answers include, because the Bishop asked me, I fill good when I server others, I know it is my duty, or my mother (or wife makes me). When asked who do we serve we answer with comments like I serve the less fortunate, I serve my family, I serve the Church, I serve my ministering families, or I serve the Lord.

In the October 2018 general conference, in the Women’s session Sister Joy D. Jones (Primary President) asked these same questions. Her talk was titled For Him. She tells the story of when the Bishop asked her and her husband to minister to a neighbor family that was less active. They first approached the family with a plate of cookies and smiles but where turned away. Subsequent efforts had similar success. They never made it past the front porch.
(You can read the talk here: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2018/10/for-him?lang=eng).

As she became frustrated Sister Jones began to ask the question “Why are we doing this? What is our purpose?” She found the answer in a familiar scripture, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him.” (Doctrine and Covenants 59:5). She continues, “We realized that we were sincerely striving to serve this family and to serve our bishop, but we had to ask ourselves if we were really serving out of love for the Lord”.

This is a question we should all ask, are we serving out of love for the Lord? “Knowing the who and the why in serving others helps us understand that the highest manifestation of love is devotion to God”. When the foundation of our service is our love for the Lord then we have greater access to the inspiration of the Spirit and the power of the Lord.
Do you love the Lord? When you serve is your love of Him the foundation of your service? In closing let me say, may God bless you in all that you. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

January Presidency Message
by Kurt Young

One of my favorite talks from last General Conference was by President M Russel Ballard of the Quorum of the 12. He gave us a background look into the "Vision of the Redemption of the Dead" by Joseph F Smith. Last October was the 100th anniversary of the vision and it really hit home to me how Pres. Smith was uniquely qualified and prepared to receive this important revelation that is now section 138 of the D&C.

Joseph lost his father Hyrum and uncle Joseph ( who he was named after) at the age of 5.
From age 7-10 he drove the family ox team as they worked their way West to Salt Lake.
His mother died when he was 13, leaving him an orphan.
He was taken under the wings of several prominent church leaders, including Brigham Young.
At 15 he went on his first mission and served in Hawaii for 3 years.
Served 2 additional missions before being called as a Apostle at the age of 27.
Became the 6th President of the church and served for 17 years.

During his 80 years he saw much death and sorrow. He had lived through the deaths of both parents(as a child), one brother, two sisters, and 13 children. His last year was particularly painful as he lost his first born son to appendicitis, his son-in-law to a tragic accident, and his daughter-in-law during child birth. On top of that, as the Lords Prophet on Earth, he was very troubled by the 20 million deaths from WW1, and a flu pandemic that would claim nearly 100 million souls.
So with this intense sorrow he sought the Lord diligently for answers and comfort. On October 3rd 1918 he received the revelation known as "the vision of the redemption of the dead". With this new and detailed information we learned much more about the work that takes place beyond the grave and the conditions of our departed loved ones. He saw multitudes of people and many of the "noble and great ones" including many prophets of old and his father and his uncle the Prophet Joseph Smith. This vision brought great peace to his soul and provided answers to many of his life long questions that he had sought for.

He died six weeks after receiving the vision.

We can take great comfort in this knowledge and better understand our future, temple work and the gospel plan. I will be forever grateful for President Smith for this revelation, his sacrifice and the strengthening of my testimony from his efforts. I pray this revelation provides you with peace and comfort as well.

Love,
Brother Kurt Young

December Presidency Message
by Kerry Oliphant

Joy to the World The Lord is Come
Kerry Oliphant

In the First Presidency’s Christmas Devotional our Prophet told us that true disciples of Jesus Christ have the privilege of experiencing unspeakable joy forever. This joy comes by accepting the gifts that Jesus Christ has to offer us.
He asked us to consider the statement from Alma that “the Lord granteth unto men according to their desire.” And then he asked us to ponder our own desires, “Do you really want to become more and more like Jesus Christ? “Do you really want to live with Heavenly Father and with your family forever and live as He lives? If you do you will want to accept many gifts offered by the Lord to help you and me during our time of mortal probation.” President Nelson presented four gifts from the Savior for us to focus on this Christmas season:

The Savior gave us an unlimited capacity to love.
The Savior gave us the ability to forgive.
The Savior gave us the gift of repentance—to change everything about ourselves.
The Savior gave us the promise of life everlasting or Eternal life, which is the kind and quality of life that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live.

I recommend that we all study this Christmas address from our Prophet and learn from the Lord’s anointed how to accept these four gifts from the Savior. If we do so, we have a great promise from the Lord’s seer.
“It won’t be just this magnificent Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square singing Hallelujah. Every person who has chosen to follow Jesus Christ will sing and shout, Hallelujah for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth, the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. I testify that God lives, Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah. This is His church which he directs through his prophets. Humbly, we invoke his blessings upon each of you including desire and ability to accept all gifts the Savior offers to you.”
This closing statement from President Nelson reminded me of an experience that I had about ten year ago. On one night when Charles and Matthew were young, I was singing them a hymn as I tucked them into bed and suddenly a small vision opened in my mind. I was in a great host of angels singing and shouting with all my heart because the Lord God omnipotent had come. I was participating in that great choir that the President Nelson spoke about, and I felt that unspeakable joy that comes to disciples of Jesus Christ almost to the point of overwhelming my body. I knew right then that my greatest desire was to be in that choir and to sing and to shout, “Hallelujah for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth.”
I add my small testimony to that of our beloved Prophet. I know that God lives and that His Son Jesus Christ stands ready to give us great gifts to bless our lives and bring us unspeakable joy. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

November Presidency Message
by Van Peterson

Try, Try, Try - President Henry B. Eyring Conference talk October 2018
“Our mortal life is designed by a loving God to be a test and source of growth for each of us. …”And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them.” We rejoiced in this plan knowing it was the only way for us to progress in faith and learn to make right choices.
Both President Hill and President England today in stake conference reminded us that trials come to all of us. Trials of faith, trials of health, family relationships, disasters are part of the world where Satan’s war against truth and against our personal happiness is becoming more intense.
And yet sometimes we find ourselves right in the middle of it, wondering how did I get here and why is this happening to me? President Eyring: “ The world and your life can seem to you to be in increasing commotion.”
President Eyring continues- “I realize that some of you listening today may feel that your faith and hope are being overcome by your troubles. And you may yearn to feel love. Brothers and sisters, the Lord has opportunities near you to feel and to share His love. You can pray with confidence for the Lord to lead you to love someone for Him. As you help children of God in their troubles, your own troubles will seem lighter. Your faith and your hope will be strengthened.”
President Eyring’s wife has been a model of service her whole life. As she lay gravely ill, President Eyring recently sang to her the words of the chorus “Love one another as Jesus loves you. Try to show kindness in all that you do, and she responded softly but clearly. “Try, try, try”
President Eyring ends by saying…..”as you lift the burdens of others you will find in time that you know the Savior better. His name will be in your heart and fixed in your memory. It is the name by which you will be called.” We do see models of service all around us in Glacial Park Ward. And we can all try, try, a little harder.

Van Peterson

October Presidency Message
by Rick Evans

Blessings of the Temple
by Rick Evans
A few weeks ago, Donna and I were blessed to be in the temple for the marriage of our son Spencer and his beautiful new bride Janire. It was so wonderful to be there with them and other family members in the Lord’s house on that day! The sealer who performed the ceremony had served as temple president in Nauvoo when my parents served a mission there a few years ago and did an amazing job. With this recent experience on my mind, I’ve been reflecting on the blessings of the temple.
In the last few months, I’ve been in the temple for a variety of different reasons…doing baptisms with one of my daughters, a session with my daughter-in-law when she received her endowment, cleaning the temple with other members of our ward, and my son’s marriage. With each time, the Spirit of the Lord has been there, and I’ve felt of His love for me and my family. We’ve all heard the phrase, “be in the world, but not of the world”. There is no better place than the temple to do this. The temple is a place where we can go and temporarily set aside the worries and cares of this world and feel of our Heavenly Father’s love for us. On the other hand, it is also a place where we can take our cares and troubles and seek council and guidance from the Lord.
The greatest blessing of the temple is that it’s the place where we can receive the saving ordinances that will allow us to return to our heavenly home and be with our families even after we pass from this life. Our pioneer ancestors in Nauvoo, despite learning that they would soon have to leave their beautiful city due to persecution, increased their efforts to finish the temple so as many as possible could be endowed and sealed in that holy house. Elder Robert D. Hales had this to say about this sacred experience. “Our pioneer ancestors were sealed together as families in Nauvoo. Their covenants with the Lord in the Nauvoo Temple were a protection for them during their journey westward, as it is for each of us today and throughout our lives. For these early Saints, their participation in the ordinances of the temple was essential to their testimonies as they faced the hardships, the angry mobs, being driven from comfortable homes in Nauvoo, and the long and difficult journey ahead. They had been endowed with power in the holy temple. Husband and wife were sealed to each other. Children were sealed to their parents. Many lost family members to death along the way, but they knew that wasn’t the end for them. They had been sealed in the temple for all eternity.”
One of the blessings I’ve had in my life is a mother and father who have set a wonder example for their posterity on the importance of temple worship. They’ve attended the temple regularly throughout their lives, served in the Salt Lake temple for the past 15 years, but most importantly, they have scheduled monthly temple outings where my siblings, spouses, and now the next generation and their spouses can be in the temple together on a regular basis. Whenever we attend a session together and all meet in the Celestial room afterwards, I get a small glimpse of what that reunion might be like when we are reunited with loved ones after we’ve finished our time here on this earth. I’m so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who has blessed us with so many temples around the earth where we can receive the ordinances that make this all possible!

September Presidency Message
by Lisa Young

This summer Kurt and I had the opportunity to take a road trip along the Oregon coast. One morning, we went on a hike to the ocean on a scenic, magical route called “The hobbit trail”. The lush forest trail wound its way down to the beach. Once to the secluded beach the morning fog set in. At first, we could see the low tide which was quite far out. We walked towards it, but the fog then rolled in behind us. It created an optical allusion that was beautiful, but at the same time, a little disorienting and spooky. Kurt served as my “beacon”. When the fog rolled in around me, I called out to him. Just hearing his voice, provided a sense of security and direction. Time went by quickly as we explored tide pools, picked up shells and examined starfish. At some point, we both decided not to go further towards the ocean because we were uncertain as to how quickly the tide may begin to come in, and we didn’t want to become trapped. So we headed back to safer ground. As we walked back up the trail, I realized how easily I could have become confused and lost.

Like a foggy morning beach, our world is a place that we can get lost trying to navigate our way. In a 2017 conference talk entitled “That the Lost May be Found” Elder M. Russell Ballard said, “Everyone loses his or her way at some point, to some degree. It is through the promptings of the Holy Ghost that we can be brought safely back onto the right path, and it is the atoning sacrifice of the Savior that can return us home.” Today, we live in a world that has lost its way in regards to values, priorities, and the sanctify of marriage. Further, we live in a world where “…hearts are turning in many directions and where the whole planet seems to be constantly moving and changing at a pace never before imagined.”

Elder Ballard’s counsel was to first, “moor” ourselves to the gospel. The gospel will serve as a protection in the tempestuous sea of life. Next, prioritize. That is, put everything that happens inside your home ahead of what happens outside of your home. Also, provide time in your life for daily prayer, scripture study and to develop close family relationships. Lastly, know that as you seek to live a Christlike life, the Holy Ghost will guide you. And if you become lost, our Savior Jesus Christ loves you, and through his teachings and atonement will always provide a way for you to return.

Sister Lisa Young

August Presidency Message
by Robyn Olsen

I was truly touched and inspired with the talk "Am I a Child of God? by Elder Brian K. Taylor, this past Conference. I attended high school with Elder Brian K. Taylor, he was such a wonderful missionary and example to me at a young age. It was such a tender talk that simply stated our purpose.

This quote by President Boyd K. Packer, mentioned in this article, perfectly explains the message, "You are a child of God. He is the father of your spirit. Spiritually you are of noble birth, the offspring of the King of Heaven. Fix that truth in your mind and hold to it. However many generations in your mortal ancestry, no matter what race or people you represent, the pedigree of your spirit can be written on a single line. You are a child of God!" This quote gives me such comfort as I understand Heavenly Father's eternal plan for us. Knowing I am a child of God gives me great strength in my daily life.

Another passage from this talk that stood out to me, which directly speaks to mothers, "To mothers, especially young mothers, who often feel overwhelmed and underwater while striving to raise a sin-resistant generation, never underestimate your central role in God's plan. In stressful moments - perhaps when you are chasing little ones and a charred smell from the kitchen informs you that your lovingly prepared dinner is now a burnt offering - know that God sanctifies your most difficult days. Fear thou not; for I am with thee, He peacefully reassures." As a mother of three and a grandmother of three, I can confidently proclaim Heavenly Father is with me during the brightest and darkest of days. I can feel his presence as I am his child, he cares and supports me during all circumstances.

I have a strong testimony of this talk and the teachings, I know I am Child of God. Heavenly Father has personally given us the tools to return to him and our eternal family. I challenge you during the month of August to read this talk and ponder of its teachings.

July Presidency Message
by Kerry Oliphant

Warnings and Promises from the Prophet
By Kerry Oliphant
President Nelson, in his April 2018 general conference talk on Sunday morning, counseled us “to stretch beyond [our] current spiritual ability to receive revelation.” That counsel was not a soft do this if it feels right to you kind of counsel, but a more urgent you must do this, or you will fail word of warning. He warned that “it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost” in our lives. That we will not “have any hope of sifting through the myriad voices and philosophies of men that attack truth” without receiving revelation from God.
With that warning, he also gave us promises if we follow his counsel. He said, “every blessing that the Lord has for you—even miracles—will follow”, that some of the Lord’s mightiest works will come between now and when He comes again, and that “[w]e will see miraculous indications that God the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory.” He also promised that we will know what is true and who we can safely trust and that we shall receive revelation and knowledge to know the mysteries and peaceable things that bring joy and eternal life. He said that the Lord is eager to share with us the secrets of the universe.
President Nelson gave us instruction on what to do to increase our capacity to receive revelation. I invite all to study the talk to better understand that instruction but here are some things that I picked out.

Choose to increase our capacity to receive revelation.
Realize It requires spiritual work.
When at times the heavens feel closed, be obedient, express gratitude, and patiently honor the Lord’s timetable.
Increased purity, exact obedience, earnest seeking, daily feasting on the words of Christ in the Book of Mormon, and regular time committed to temple and family history work.
Find a quiet place you can regularly go and humble yourself before God and pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Pray about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses, and the longings of your heart. Listen and write down the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with the actions you are prompted to take.

May we study carefully the words of President Nelson and realize the promised blessings that Heavenly Father has for us. In closing, I invite everyone to read D&C 84:23-25, insert the name of “Russell M. Nelson” where it says “Moses”, and ponder what that means to you personally. I testify that Russell M. Nelson is God’s prophet on the earth today and I commit myself to follow him and the Savior with all my heart. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

June Presidency Message
by Bishop Gremillion

We learn in 2nd John to “look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.” The most difficult of all the parts of the Doctrine of Christ (2 Nephi 31, 2 John 1:9-10) to follow is ENDURING TO THE END.

After his resurrection, the Savior appeared to the other sheep on the American continent and told them “look unto me, and endure to the end, and ye shall live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal life.” (3 Nephi 15:9) Given at least thirty scriptures referring to this promise, there is no doubt that those who endure to the end will be saved in God’s kingdom.

Happily, failing to endure is not a sin one commits once and for all time. While we remain in mortality, we always have the option of repentance.
One bishop related this story: Not long ago, I met a former student who had lost his membership as a result of repeated, willful iniquity. He said that he wanted to straighten his life out. I asked him if he had a testimony, and he said no, he didn’t. Surprised, I asked him why he wanted to repent and regain his membership if he didn’t have a testimony. I will never forget his answer: “I don’t know right now that the Church is true, but I know that I once knew, and I know God knows I once knew. The Church didn’t change between then and now—I did. And now I want to know again what I knew before, and I am willing to repent to do it.”
It’s a great blessing to endure together. I’m so grateful to my Glacial Park brothers and sisters who strengthen and lift. When we are gathered and work together the Lord is with us empowering us to endure to the end.
With love, Bishop Gremillion

May Presidency Message
by Krista Grant

In the six months following each General Conference I like to re-listen to the most recent talks. This past month I listened to one that especially made an impression. It was the talk given by Elder Lynn G Robbins, "Until Seventy times Seven", from the Saturday Morning Session.

Elder Robbins tells of a BYU Physics Professor that he had in 1970. This professor gave his students every opportunity to learn. If they received a C on an exam he allowed them to take a modified exam that covered the same material and continued letting them retake the exam until they were satisfied with their grade. I know that this is how our Heavenly Father sees us, his Children. He sees us fail in things throughout our lives, but knows that we will learn from each of those failures and probably doesn't even consider them to be failures. I think he knows that those things will help us to learn, grow, and become strengthened on our pathway back to him.

He also gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the one that makes it possible for us to continue trying again. Because Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for us we have the gift of the atonement and have infinite opportunities to repent and become more like him.

While I have listened to and pondered this particular talk, I have received a stronger testimony of repentance and forgiveness. I know that our Heavenly Father and Savior love each and every one of us and want to give us every opportunity to improve and return to them. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

April Presidency Message
by Meg Dawson

Wow, what a weekend we have all just experienced as we had the opportunity to watch and listen to the 188th Annual General Conference. I honestly don't remember a more powerful General Conference where we were able to participate in such a sacred event as we sustained our new prophet and then witness true revelation as changes and announcements were made that impact and effect each one of us.

As I was participating in the Solemn Assembly on Saturday morning, I had such a beautiful experience as the Spirit bore testimony to me that President Russell M. Nelson has been called of God and that he is the prophet, our prophet on the earth today. The spirit testifed to me as I raised my hand and had the opportunity to sustain President Nelson and our General Authorities that each one of them, as well, has been called of God and has been given the keys and authority to lead and direct His church.

I received that same beautiful and powerful witness again and again as announcements and changes were given that each was received by our General Authorities through divine revelation. The heavens are open and we have had the opportunity to experience the sacred and beautiful witness of the Spirit many times this past weekend testifying of this truth.

It is so exciting to be a part of these historic revelations ... each one a fabulous journal entry that we can pass down to our posterity and say, “Ya, I was there when ...”! As exciting as the changes are, making changes can sometimes be hard. I tend to get comfortable walking in the same ruts. I have to admit, I have felt some heaviness as I've wondered how the changes will affect my responsibilities as Relief Society President. However, as I have considered the beauty and power of us serving each other as “Ministers” rather than visiting and home teachers, I have received a peaceful reassurance that because of the love we have for each other in the Glacial Park Ward, as we truly follow our leaders and minister to each other as they have taught us, not only will our dear Bishop's burden be lighter, but each of our burdens will be lighter. We have the opportunity to truly serve as our Savior did and to be His hands in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Brothers and Sisters, I testify that I know that God lives and that His Son, Jesus Christ leads and directs His church. We have a prophet on the earth today, President Russell M. Nelson, who is His mouthpiece. I testify that as we exercise our faith and follow the Prophet and the leaders of the church 100%, we will truly be blessed.

March Presidency message
by Chad Hansen

My good friend, Floyd Holdman taught me some valuable and memorable lessons he learned while on a photo assignment in Egypt. He was to film the sarcophagus and colorful hieroglyphics on walls of a tomb located deep underground in a burial chamber. When he arrived with his strobes and lighting equipment the Egyptians told him he wouldn’t be allowed to use artificial lighting. “How”, he asked could he possibly film without his lights? They told him he would be able to light the burial chamber with a method employed by ancient Egyptians using sunlight reflected from mirrors.

A person holding a large mirror was positioned on top that could reflect the light of the sun to others who were also holding a large mirror at each bend in the descending tunnel leading to the chamber. In this manner they were able to share the light until the burial chamber was illuminated in a beautiful, radiant light. Floyd discovered it allowed him to film everything with great ease. He pointed out the importance of each person holding up his mirror to capture the light and pass it on to the next in line. If any one of them were to fail in their assignment and shift or drop their mirror the light would dim or fail and cast others into complete darkness.

We can’t speak of light without speaking of the Light of the World, Jesus Christ. Elder Mark A. Bragg of the Seventy taught, “A manifestation of a loving Heavenly Father is that everyone who comes to this life is blessed with the Light of Christ to help them return home. President Boyd K. Packer taught: “The Spirit of Christ is always there. … The Light of Christ is as universal as sunlight itself. The Church is a beacon of light to a darkening world. … In a darkening world, the light of the Church will shine brighter and brighter until the perfect day. … Even in the most difficult and darkest of times, there is light and goodness all around us. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf reminded us, “We are surrounded by such an astonishing wealth of light and truth that I wonder if we truly appreciate what we have.”

As we serve in our various callings we reflect light to each other. We share the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ with our neighbors through acts of love and kindness.

You have strengthened my family and me as you have reflected light into my life through your loving service in so many wonderful ways. May we each remember to hold our mirrors clean and steady, and the importance we each play in sharing the Light of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I leave you with my love and my testimony of these things,

Chad Hansen, Counselor to Bishop Gremillion

February, 2018 Presidency Message
By Mark McKinnon

As President Monson’s health and strength began to be limited in the last few years of his life, his prophetic counsel became very focused. In April 2017 General Conference, I believe President Monson knew he would not have many more opportunities to speak to the members of the Church. His last two talks didn’t expound on the mysteries of God or deep theological doctrine. He testified of the blessings that come from reading the Book of Mormon and being kind.

In the April 2017 Priesthood Session, President Monson’s address was “Kindness, Charity, and Love.” In this brief and powerful talk he said, “let us examine our lives and determine to follow the Savior’s example by being kind, loving, and charitable. And as we do so, we will be in a better position to call down the powers of heaven for ourselves, for our families, and for our fellow travelers in this sometimes difficult journey back to our heavenly home.”

President Monson’s Sunday Morning Session conference address was “The Power of the Book of Mormon.” He concluded his last conference talk by testifying, “My dear associates in the work of the Lord, I implore each of us to prayerfully study and ponder the Book of Mormon each day. As we do so, we will be in a position to hear the voice of the Spirit, to resist temptation, to overcome doubt and fear, and to receive heaven’s help in our lives. I so testify with all my heart in the name of Jesus Christ.”

All of us can follow President Monson’s council to be kind and read the Book of Mormon every day. President Monson promised us wonderful blessing if we obey his counsel. I am grateful for President Monson’s influence in my life.

Mark McKinnon
High Priest Group

January, 2018 Presidency Message
by Kerry Oliphant

It is fitting that as we mourn the loss of our beloved prophet, Thomas S. Monson, that we ponder the last words that he gave to us in his last General Conference address in April of 2017.
“My dear associates in the work of the Lord, I implore each of us to prayerfully study and ponder the Book of Mormon each day. As we do so, we will be in a position to hear the voice of the Spirit, to resist temptation, to overcome doubt and fear, and to receive heaven’s help in our lives. I so testify with all my heart in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.”
And who better to help us ponder and understand this prophetic call to action than the current presiding High Priest of the Church, President Russell M. Nelson. In his conference address this last October he asked us, in relation to the charge given us by President Monson, to ponder three questions:

What would your life be like without the Book of Mormon?
What would you not know without the Book of Mormon?
What would you not have without the Book of Mormon?

President Nelson further goes on to say:
“When I think of the Book of Mormon, I think of the word power. The truths of the Book of Mormon have the power to heal, comfort, restore, succor, strengthen, console, and cheer our souls.
My dear brothers and sisters, I promise that as you prayerfully study the Book of Mormon every day, you will make better decisions—every day. I promise that as you ponder what you study, the windows of heaven will open, and you will receive answers to your own questions and direction for your own life. I promise that as you daily immerse yourself in the Book of Mormon, you can be immunized against the evils of the day, even the gripping plague of pornography and other mind-numbing addictions.”
May we all in this coming year heed the counsel of these two prophets of God and make the Book of Mormon central to our lives that we may receive the promised blessings and stand in holy places immune to the evils of our day. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Brother Kerry Oliphant
Sunday School President

December, 2017 Presidency Message
by Vaughn Cox

The Advent of Christmas

Over the years my family has many times enjoyed the anticipation of Christmas with an Advent calendar. Starting on December 1st one opens a window or door every day and finding a surprise. With each day we get one surprise and one day closer to Christmas.

But what is an Advent? Where does it come from? An advent is the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. But for you is Advent the arrival of Christmas or of Christ?

We all know about Christmas, right? Shopping, buying, baking, parties, cookies, egg nog,
Santa, cards, gifts, caroling, decorating, and stressing. But there’s a lot more to it.
Christmas is about the world and Advent is the expectant waiting, the hopeful anticipation, & the cheerful preparation for Christ to come into our lives, in all moments, in all places, and at all times, past, future, and present.
It’s about commemorating the birth of Jesus
It’s about preparing for Christ’s return
It’s about welcoming Christ into our lives everyday
Advent prepares us for these events and reminds us that there is joy in waiting, in preparing.
It’s not stressing about Christmas. It’s not about rushing around shopping.
Nor is it a race to December 25th
It’s about hope. It’s about getting your home ready to welcome a special guest, even Jesus Christ
The one we have been waiting for. The one we want in our homes and our lives.
It’s about rejoicing for that expected guest who has almost arrived.
Remember, it’s not about shopping, stressing, planning, or buying
It’s about expecting, waiting, hoping, and praying.
If you’re sick of Christmas by December 25th
Then you haven’t done it correctly
It’s about preparing and waiting for that special guest, our Lord, and our Savior.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord … (Luke 2:11). … and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)

As we prepare for Christmas let us remember that “God be thanked for the gift of his Divine Son”.

Merry Christmas

November, 2017 Presidency Message
By Phil Smith

The gospel of Jesus Christ is the eternal plan of salvation. It is the plan devised and announced by God, the Eternal Father, for the salvation of all who will believe and obey.

We are eternal beings. We have no way of comprehending how long we dwelt in the presence of God as his spirit children. We are here in mortality for a moment of testing and trial. Then we will come forth in the resurrection, receive an inheritance in whatever kingdom we deserve, and go on living the commandments to all eternity.

This life consists of a brief yesterday, a few short hours of today, and a few moments tomorrow. The oldest men among us scarcely live longer than a hundred years. But the life that is to be is forever. It will have no end. Men will rise from the grave and not die after. Life is eternal, unending; never after the resurrection will the children of our Father taste death.

We have a hope in Christ here and now. He died for our sins. Because of him and his gospel, our sins are washed away in the waters of baptism; sin and iniquity are burned out of our souls as though by fire; and we become clean, have clear consciences, and gain that peace which passeth understanding. (See Philip. 4:7.)
By living the laws of his gospel, we gain temporal prosperity and maintain health of body and strength of mind. The gospel blesses us today.

But today is just a grain of sand in the Sahara of eternity. We have also a hope in Christ for the eternity that lies ahead; otherwise, as Paul said, we would be “of all men most miserable” (1 Cor. 15:19).

We have an eternal hope in Christ. We know this life is given us to prepare for eternity, “and that same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal glory, which glory we do not now enjoy” (D&C 130:2).

I believe, and it is my testimony, “that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent” (Mosiah 3:17).

October, 2017 Presidency Message
by Lisa Young

Image from Wiki Commons

This spring my husband shared a story at our family Easter dinner. It was a story that touched his heart by Senator Ben Sasse of Nebraska. Sasse met a man by the name of “Dave” at a homeless shelter he was volunteering at. Dave was a former resident of the shelter and now worked there as a full-time cook. In a conversation with the Senator, he shared some of the hardships of his life which included drug addiction and crime. He went on to refer to himself as a “drunk, a druggie, a liar, and a thief” and said he’d experience several moments where suicide seemed like the plausible way out of his situation. But what impacted the Senator the most was Dave’s comment about the homeless “…they need humanity. They need touch. They need you to look them in eyes and see them – not just look at them

This comment about homeless people needing "humanity" really hit me (Lisa Young) hard because I’m that person that looks away. I’m the person that walks by and pretends they are invisible. I’m the person who ignores them when they ask for money. I’m the person that can’t accept their reality of poverty or mental illness or drug abuse because it’s so far removed from my life.

Then this June, I had an experience that was so out of character for me that it had to have been the prompted by the Holy Ghost. I was walking back to my car from an appointment at the Gateway Center in downtown Salt Lake. It was one of the hottest Junes on record, and I was anxious to get back to my car and start up the air conditioning. Just as I was rounded the corner to the parking entrance, an older man approached me and politely said, “Mam, do you have a cigarette you can loan me?” I stopped, chuckled a little and said, “Sir, I have lots of vices, but smoking cigarettes in not one of them.” Then he went on to say he wished he could stop smoking cigarettes, but that he’s been addicted since he was a teenager. I asked him if he had something to drink, to which his reply was, “No mam.” So I asked him if there was a market nearby where we could get a bottled water or a soft drink. He looked at me strangely and exclaimed, “Well, yes, mam. There is a little grocery store just a couple of blocks away.” To which I announced, “Let’s go. A cold Diet Coke sounds good to me!” Before we started walking, we shook hands and formally introduced ourselves. He said, "Pleasure to know you, Miss Lisa." His names was Kenneth. During our two block walk, he pointed out some of the dangers of living on the streets, and how he’d been robbed and assaulted. Also, how difficult it is when you are sick with a cold and have no where to rest or need to see a doctor.

As we approached the store, he hesitated and mumbled, “They don’t like my kind in that store.” I replied, “Well, you’re with me so come on in and let me worry about that.” He picked out a bottle of Coca Cola and started eyeing the ice-cream section. I could tell he wanted an ice cream too but was too embarrassed to ask, so I began to read all the assortments until I got a favorable reaction. He chose a vanilla drumstick with chocolate and nut sprinkles. After paying, we sat on the stoop of the store and chatted. He told me his life story which included running away from an abusive home as a 13-year old, drug abuse, drifting from city to city, a string of broken marriages, crime, chronic illness and the recent death of his own son. I did a lot of nodding, and listened quietly as I sipped my cold drink. I told him that I was sorry for his troubles and losing a child. After about 15 minutes he graciously thanked me for the cold treats, I thanked him for sharing his story with me and we parted ways. I took away from this experience to follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost and to acknowledge all human beings with compassion and the true love of Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 13:1-2 “Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unaware.”

Luke 14:13-14 “But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee; for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.”

Matthew 25:40 “…Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these by brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

To read the complete story by Ben Sasse, use the link below:
www.theblaze.com/news/2017/04/13/ben-sasse-shares-touching-personal-story-about-a-homeless-guy-and-a-feast/

September, 2017 Presidency Message
by Robyn Olsen

My mother speaks that her father, my grandfather, was most often the Bishop or in the Bishopric as she was growing up. Often, they were privileged to have different General Authorities at their home for dinner. One of the mother’s personal favorite was President David O. Mckay. She always had President’s Mckay’s saying, “The Ten Rules of Happiness” hanging in our kitchen. Having grown up with this saying, I feel, it is still so appropriate for today.
Ten Rules of Happiness
1. Develop yourself by self-discipline.
2. Joy comes through creation—sorrow through destruction. Every living thing can grow; use the world wisely to realize soul growth.
3. Do things which are hard to do.
4. Entertain up-building thoughts. What you think about when you do not have to think shows what you really are.
5. Do your best this hour and you will do better the next.
6. Be true to those who trust you.
7. Pray for those things such as wisdom, courage, and a kind heart
8. Give heed to God’s message through inspiration. If self-indulgence, jealousy, avarice or worry have deadened your response, pray to the Lord to wipe impediments.
9. True friends enrich life. If you would have friends, be one.
10. Faith is the foundation of all things, including happiness.

President David O. Mckay
I really love how inspirational every one of these are, especially number ten. This year our Mutual Theme is: James 1: 5-6. One of my favorite parts of the scripture, “Ask in faith, nothing wavering.” True faith is always focused in and on our Lord, Jesus Christ, and will lead to righteous action. When we ask God in faith; there are miracles, visions, dreams, healings and all the gifts of our Heavenly Father. A lack of faith can lead to despair. Joseph Smith once said, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence, and will be the end there of, if we pursue the path that leads to it.” Asking in faith requires honesty, effort, commitment, and persistence. President Thomas S. Monson told us, “Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.” It is my hope and prayer for all of us to remember this inspired message from Our Beloved Prophet David O. Mckay. May we always ask for and act in faith that we will have happiness in all things.

August, 2017 Presidency message
by Bubba Fenton

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I've been thinking a lot about focus on life and where my daily thoughts are. There are days when work is stressful, there's a lot going in the evenings, calling responsibilities, yard work and a million other ways I'm being pulled. Those days it's easier to get discouraged, overwhelmed and to be quicker to be upset.

Then I have some days where everything seems to be going right. I'm spending time with my wife, playing with my kids, I seem to let go of things I can't control at work and focus on what I can. These days I have a greater desire to serve my neighbors, to get out and enjoy the beauty of the mountains around us.

Elder Russel M. Nielsen said: "The joy we feel has less to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives." We can choose what we focus on in life. We've been given a life by our Father in heaven where he wants us to be happy. He didn't create the plan He did for us to be unhappy and constantly worried about the circumstances in our lives. I hope this week we can shift our focus to the good, the blessings we have and show our Father in heaven gratitude. It's our privilege to choose joy and build our families.

Bubba Fenton

July, 2017 Presidency Message
by Bishop Gremillion

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

We’re fortunate to live in such a beautiful place surrounded by picturesque mountains with ample opportunity for outdoor recreation. Over the years, our family has enjoyed hiking the trails throughout the Wasatch range. We’re thankful to our Heavenly Father for providing another place where we can feel peace and commune with the Spirit. I’ll never forget the challenges we faced climbing Twin Peaks. Remembering this hike reminds me of President Hinckley’s comments comparing our struggles to a rail journey. He said, “Life is like an old-time rail journey—delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride” That pretty much describes our hike. There is a long and steep scree field of loose shale at the base of Twin Peaks that frustrated us and hampered our progress. For every two steps taken, we seemed to slide back one.

Despite the difficulty, we eventually reached the peak. Experiences like that teach us much about who we are and how we deal with life.

Elder Ballard, while talking about finding our way and the faith this requires said, “Life can be like hikers ascending a steep and arduous trail. It is a natural and normal thing to occasionally pause on the path to catch our breath, to recalculate our bearings, and to reconsider our pace. Not everyone needs to pause on the path, but there is nothing wrong with doing so when your circumstances require. In fact, it can be a positive thing for those who take full advantage of the opportunity to refresh themselves with the living water of the gospel of Christ. The danger comes when someone chooses to wander away from the path that leads to the tree of life. Sometimes we can learn, study, and know, and sometimes we have to believe, trust, and hope. In the end, each one of us must respond to the Savior’s question: “Will ye also go away?” We all have to search for our own answer to that question. For some, the answer is easy; for others, it is difficult.”

Together, as a ward, we help each other on the climb. Lets simplify the climb. Since we can’t do it all, don’t try. Refrain from thinking of the Church as a massive, inexhaustible to-do list. Rather, think of the Church’s many meetings, commandments, service projects, and classes as a rich inventory of possibilities. We shouldn’t treat them like a buffet where we avoid what’s best for us, but realizing that there is no way to do everything, especially all at once, is a freeing and wonderful insight. We just need to point our feet in the Savior’s direction and keep taking small steps.

I invite you to read or listen to Elder Ballard October 2016 general conference address entitled, “To Whom Shall We Go.” (See link below)

With love, Bishop G

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2016/10/to-whom-shall-we-go?lang=eng

June, 2017 Presidency message
by Cheryl Boyle

With the passing of our sweet baby, Maely, our family has come to understand more clearly what the scripture in Isaiah 53:4-5 means. “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrow…And with his stripes we are healed.” Although many others have too lost a child, no one can really know what we are feeling except our Savior. We know that He personally has felt each person’s pains, suffering, and sickness. Through the Atonement our beloved Savior suffered so “that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people.” (Alma 7:12)
President Merrill Bateman said, “If grieving parents and loved ones have faith in the Savior and His plan, death’s sting is softened as Jesus bears the believers’ grief and comforts them through the Holy Spirit.”
In this month’s Friend, President Eyring wrote to our children: “Heavenly Father gave the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, to make it possible for families to continue forever. Because of the Savior, we will all be resurrected. We can become worthy of the celestial kingdom, where families live together in love forever. Heavenly Father knows you and loves you. You are His spirit child. You were with Him and Jesus Christ before this life. The Holy Spirit and the Atonement of Jesus Christ will help you feel family love now and in the world to come.”
Oh, how blessed we are that we know these truths and can turn to our Heavenly Father and Savior in times of trial and look forward to living with our families forever if we but prove faithful.

May, 2017 presidency message
by Meg Dawson

I was impressed with the talk given by Bonnie H. Cordon, Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, in the March 2017 General Women's Conference:
She tells the story of meeting a woman while she was traveling in Asia. This dear sister approached Sister Cardon, wrapped her arms around her and asked, “Do you really believe that this gospel is true?” Sister Cordon responded, “Dear sister, I know it is true. I trust in the Lord.”
In Proverbs 3:5–6, we read this counsel: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
This scripture comes with two admonitions, a warning, and a glorious promise. The two admonitions are: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart” and “in all thy ways acknowledge him.” The warning: “Lean not unto thine own understanding.” And the glorious promise: “He shall direct thy paths.”
First, the warning. It comes in the words “lean not”—“lean not unto thine own understanding.” In English the word lean has a connotation of physically leaning or moving to one side. When we physically lean toward one side or another, we move off center, we are out of balance, and we tip. When we spiritually lean to our own understanding, we lean away from our Savior. If we lean, we are not centered; we are not balanced; we are not focused on Christ.
By following the two admonitions, we will find ourselves being centered rather than “leaning”: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and in all thy ways acknowledge him.” In our premortal life, we stood with the Savior. We trusted Him. We voiced our support, enthusiasm, and joy for the plan of happiness set forth by our Heavenly Father. We leaned not. We fought with our testimonies and “aligned ourselves with the forces of God, and those forces were victorious.” This battle between good and evil has moved to earth. Once again we have the sacred responsibility to stand as a witness and put our trust in the Lord. It is so important... no, Vital, that we Trust, Acknowledge and lean not.
When we “Trust in the Lord with all our heart and in all our ways acknowledge Him, we will receive the beautiful promise: “He shall direct our paths.” Isn't that great! When I think of this promise, I feel such peace, such strength and such confidence. There are so many times when I wonder about decisions I need to make or if I am doing the right things. I testify that God does and will lead us every step of the way through our lives as we Trust Him, Acknowledge Him and lean not unto our own understanding.

April, 2017 Presidency message
by Russ Smith

Spring is my favorite time of year. It marks the end of a cold, gray winter. It represents life, growth and purity. Both spring and Easter have the same message: Rebirth.
We celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Not only did He live the perfect life and die for all the sins of mankind, but He also accomplished the unthinkable. He arose from the dead and by so doing, gave us all the same gift.
In my job as an OB/GYN, nearly every day I experience new life. It is amazing that people let me take part in such a sacred and special day in their lives. How wonderful to be so near these little ones. The rebirth of one of God’s children is just as amazing. When we accept Jesus Christ and take His name upon us through baptism, we are reborn. We start a new life as disciples of Jesus.
When Alma was speaking to the saints in Zarahemla, he asked a series of pointed questions. One of my favorites states, “And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, canye feel so now?” (Alma 5:26). Alma is speaking to each of us. To fully accept Christ, we must have a mighty change of heart. Once this change occurs, we need to keep experiencing these feelings on a daily basis. For this to happen, we must pray sincerely, study the scriptures and have charity, the pure love of Christ, for those around us. We must love as Jesus loves.
As we enjoy the beginning of spring and celebrate Easter with our loved ones, let each of us reflect on when we became disciples of Christ, when we had that mighty change of heart. Let’s remember how we felt and do our best to feel those same feelings every day.

Russell A Smith

March, 2017 presidency message
by Richard Scott

We were recently on vacation with several of our children and grandchildren. When Sunday came we were having breakfast and preparing to go to church at a local ward and our oldest daughter Whitney turned on a Pandora station that she had created on her mobile phone which played her “Sunday” soundtrack. This made me feel good because on Sunday at our house we have always tried to make the Sabbath a different day by leaving the TV off and by playing Sunday appropriate music, i.e. music that turns our thoughts and minds to our Heavenly Father, our Savior and our ancestors. This has always brought a special spirit into our home on the Sabbath and helped to set that day apart as a day we strive to increase the influence of the Spirit in our lives. Whitney commented that “my Sunday station is my favorite station”. We all agreed that it was because of the way it helped to invite the Spirit and make Sunday, the Lord’s Sabbath, a special day of the week, one that is different from all others because of the way we treat it. I then thought, why does our “Sunday station” need to be relegated to Sunday? If sacred music helps to invite and increase the Spirit why should we relegate that just to Sunday? Shouldn’t we be trying to increase the influence of the Spirit in our lives each and every day? I know that we all try our best to be worthy to have the Spirit with us each day of the week. But are there some things we could be doing better, or doing more of, or being more regular at in order to invite the Lord’s Spirit to have a stronger influence in our lives? Can we be more diligent in creating time to really study and receive inspiration from the scriptures? To re-read our patriarchal blessings? To read uplifting articles and talks from our general authorities in the Ensign? To have our radio dials set to music which is uplifting and edifying? To have the courage to change the channel, or turn off the device when what we see or hear is not helpful in keeping the Spirit with us?

In the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet the Lord counsels us to “Choose wisely when using media because whatever you read, listen to, or look at has an effect on you. Select only media that uplifts you”. This is good advice not only for our youth, but for all of us regardless of our age. We all need an increase of the Lord’s Spirit to guide us and help us make good decisions that will draw us closer to Him. My hope is that we will all do some “fine-tuning” of those things that we allow to come into our lives and have influence upon us. As we do, our “Sunday station” can become our everyday station and the result can be that we will always have His Spirit to be with us.

February, 2017 presidency message
by Van Peterson

We are all familiar with the wonderful scripture “If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God, that giveth to al men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall b e given him.’ As Joseph Smith followed this advice and promise his prayers were answered ushering in this dispensation of the fullness of times.

Counsel and promises in the first six verses of the Book of James can help us through adversity and are applicable to us now as they were to Joseph Smith. However, I was very curious about the counsel given in verse 2 – “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;”. ?? How can this be? Are we to be grateful for doubts and temptations? When illness, family, financial, or other problems come should we somehow rejoice?

Verse 3 helps us better understand. “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” We learn that ONLY through “The trying, DIFFICULT sometimes heart wrenching, testing, of our faith can we find patience, strength and joy. How else can we learn patience except through adversity? One of my favorite movies is REMEMBER THE TITANS based on a true story. Denzel Washington is a football coach and in one segment he is putting the team through a strenuous physical workout telling them “learn to love it like warm hot bread”. The boys may not have loved hard preparation but very grateful their patience helped them later become Tennessee state champions.

Verse 4 – “But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” Is not this our eternal goal that we may become perfect and entire, wanting nothing.? Difficult to see this in an eternal perspective. And yet we rejoiced to come here to mortality, to have hard as well as joyous experiences. We learn from our temptations, our mistakes, and we learn patience through problems over which we have little control.

Verse 5 reassures us that we are not here alone. “ If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.” Heavenly Father has not left us here without hope and guidance. He is there for us in our good efforts, and in our doubts, in our troubles and in our joy. He is there for us in the scriptures, in council from our leaders, he is there for us in our prayers. When we are concerned about our familes, our health, relationships, or the future of our country, “ let patience have her perfect work,” and remember our goals in the eternal plan.

January, 2017 presidency message
by Kerry Oliphant

A Season of Opportunity
At the start of this New Year let us remember the words of President Gordon B. Hinckley:
“This is a season of a thousand opportunities. It is ours to grasp and move forward. What a wonderful time it is for each of us to do his or her small part in moving the work of the Lord on to its magnificent destiny”
One of those opportunities that we have is to study the Doctrine and Covenants this year in Sunday School. Section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants was written by the Lord Himself and He gives us some of the purposes for the revelations that are in the Doctrine and Covenants. They include:

“That every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world” (D&C 1:20)
“That faith also might increase” (D&C 1:21)
“That mine everlasting covenant might be established” (D&C 1:22)
“That the fullness of my gospel might be proclaimed” (D&C 1:23)
To help the Lord’s servants “come to understanding” (D&C 1:24)
“And inasmuch as they erred it might be made known” (D&C 1:25)
“And inasmuch as they sought wisdom they might be instructed” (D&C 1:26)
“And inasmuch as they sinned they might be chastened, that they might repent” (D&C 1:27)
“And inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time” (D&C 1:28)

If we liken these words of the Savior to ourselves there is much to be gained from the study of the Doctrine and Covenants such as increased faith, wisdom, and understanding of the Lord’s ways. Also, knowledge about the errors that we make that keeps us from progressing and the path to receiving blessings from the Lord.
This coming year I invite you to take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the revelations of God by studying the Gospel Doctrine lesson each week. Then come to Sunday School prepared to share your insights and thoughts with the class that you and the other class members may be edified and made stronger each weak because of your efforts.
May we take this opportunity to become the people that the Lord would have us become and receive the blessings that He wants to give us. The Gospel of Jesus Christ as revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith is true. The Doctrine and Covenants is the word of God. The Church today is led by a prophet who holds the keys from Jesus Christ necessary to lead this Church.

December Presidency message
Bishop Gremillion

As I’ve read the Christmas story again this year, I lingered on and pondered the story of Simeon. Simeon was a “just and devout” man who regularly communed with the Holy Ghost. He was a man of faith, living in such a way that the Holy Ghost whispered to him “that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ”. He was living in the hope and anticipation of that great event. He listened to the promptings of the Spirit and as a result he knew to come to the temple on the day Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to Jerusalem “to present him to the Lord”. Simeon recognized the baby as the promised Messiah and “took he him up in his arms, and blessed God”, prophesying of the destiny of the holy baby as the “light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people”.

Simeon’s righteous desires and faithful attentiveness allowed him to hear the whisperings of the Spirit and be present in the temple so he could testify of the Light of the world. We, like Simeon, can create a space in our hearts for the whisperings of the Holy Ghost. We needn’t be perfect to do this. We need only humble ourselves and seek His will. When we are faced with making difficult decisions, when we are at a crossroads in our lives, we need the guidance of the Spirit. Life often brings feelings of doubt and indecisiveness that often lead to confusion and an inability to act. But as we, despite our doubts and weaknesses, move forward in faith, with a desire to believe, we will feel the Spirit guiding and prompting us. As we ask for and ponder the whisperings of the Spirit, we will know of the Lord’s love, as manifest by the birth of his Only Begotten Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, who saves us as we follow Him.

Merry Christmas Brothers and Sisters of the Glacial Park Ward!

With Love, Bishop Gremillion

November Presidency Message
Phil Smith

Throughout my travels I have come across many people, a great deal of them appear unhappy or downcast. As we go throughout our daily routines our lives can seem mundane and unimportant. Some may wonder what is the point of all this and why does it matter? They struggle to find peace in their lives. What is there to be thankful for?

In His own words, the Savior has declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6).

And from the Book of Mormon, He declares: “Behold, I am he who was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my people. Behold, I am Jesus Christ. … In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name; and they shall become my sons and my daughters” (Ether 3:14).

Christ is the reason for hope. As we turn our thoughts towards Jesus Christ our burdens can become lighter and we can find peace. We will not live perfect lives, we will face struggles, and we will all make mistakes. However, Christ has suffered so that we can return to our Father in heaven.

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:23-24).

The Savior, through the Atonement, provides us with the way. If we are aware of what the Savior’s sacrifice can do for us, we will not go through life carrying regrets that we have done something wrong or offended someone. The guilt that accompanies mistakes can be washed away.

Each of us can serve as a testimony of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. We can lighten one another’s burdens as we interact with others each day. We can make a difference in the lives of those around us as we follow Christ’s example of love. We can help bring Christ’s happiness to those around us.

Phil Smith

October Presidency Message
by Lisa Young

The sunken garden at Butchart Gardens. Photo by Lisa Young

This summer Kurt and I had the opportunity to visit world famous Butchart Gardens, on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. We arrived a few minutes before they officially opened in hopes that we could get just of few minutes of peace before the throngs of tourists packed the gardens. As we came to the overlook of the “sunken garden,” we audibly gasped. We were both overwhelmed by the colors and textures and serenity. It was hard to believe that at the turn of the 20th century, this heavenly garden was a huge exhausted limestone pit whose owners, the Butchart family, transformed little by little into this blossoming flora spectacle. Later in the afternoon, I came upon a rose. It was the most exquisite rose I’ve ever seen. I thought to myself, “Nature is truly one of God’s beautiful creations.” Through nature we can feel peace and joy. Nature is a provider as well, and we should all be protectors of its sacredness. Joseph F. Smith said, “Love of nature is akin to love of God; the two are inseparable.” One need not travel far to experience nature in our community. How fortunate we are to within minutes of taking an autumn walk in the canyons or our neighborhood Granite Park. Let us all remember and show gratitude that, “In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hill is also. The sea is his, and he made it; and his hands formed the dry land.” (Psalm 95 4-5).
In the name of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Lisa Young
(see accompanying images below)

Cherries Jubilee rose at Butchart Gardens. Photo by Lisa Young

Autumn hike to Lake Blanche - Big Cottonwood Canyon. Photo by Ashley Young

Presidency message
by Robyn Olsen

I just love this time of year. The kids are back in school, fall is coming and we can get back to our normal routine after a wonderful, busy summer.
The Mutual theme this year is 2 Nephi 31:20, “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ”. Our Young Women’s General Presidency explained this so perfectly.

To press forward implies that you are being required to make a real effort against some opposing force. We have to put forth energy to live the gospel because we are surrounded by a world of opposition to the commandments of God.
Are you Steadfast in Christ? Are you immovable in your loyalty to Him? If you “abide in him” (see John 15:4) and follow His teachings, then you are truly steadfast and blessings will surely come to you.
Your hope and love of God and man increase as you understand and feel God’s love personally. This understanding grows as you feast upon the words of Christ, that is, as you gratefully and purposefully apply the words of Christ to your personal life.
And finally, you must endure!

As we press forward and center our lives in Christ, we will have all we need. President Monson quoted the Savior when he said, “Look unto me, and endure to the end, and ye shall live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal life.”
I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve these wonderful young women in our ward. They each have such sweet spirits that continue to teach me so much and strengthen my own testimony. I feel so blessed to have this amazing group of leaders, they have inspired me and I love each and every one of them.
Love, Robyn

August Presidency Message
by Bubba Fenton

As a father of young kids who very much need "daddy time" and/or are in the own activities outside the home, a demanding job requiring lots of hours in the office and travel to various parts of the world, doing my best to serve others and be a good neighbor and friend, making time for regular scripture study and prayer, achieving extracurricular goals I've set for myself, planning time for Brittany and I to just be alone for 5 minutes, etc. it can be very tough to be out in front of everything, stay organized and find balance. Does any of this sound familiar to anyone?

I try to do my best to create routines and habits to "fit it all in", I've noticed at different times in my life when the "all-important" scripture reading and meaningful prayer fall too much by the wayside, that my capacity to accomplish the most important things in my life suffers. I am weak and the "natural man" takes over too often. All I can say is when I really read my scriptures and I really pray and include the Lord in what I'm doing... It Works Wonderfully.

In a talk titled, It Works Wonderfully (https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/10/it-works-wonderfully?lang=eng) given by President Uchtdorf in the October 2015 conference, he offers two great suggestions to help us experience the gospel, make it "work for us". Reading and studying this talk has blessed my life and, if you'll take the time, I believe it will bless yours.

Simplify - are we making our discipleship too complicated?
Start Where You Are

I can't fully explain why, and nobody would believe me to the point they would change their own behavior, but I can say I've experienced what scripture study and prayer do and the changes it makes in my life. I had a friend tell me that he finds people who are serious and dedicated to prayer and scripture habits, never refer to them as Sunday School or Primary answers to life's problems.

It works wonderfully. I testify that it does.

Love,
Bubba Fenton

July presidency message
by Bishop Gremillion

Recently, while reading about current world affairs, I remembered the words of President Boyd. K. Packer in the first general conference of Y2K. If you remember back then, there were many doomsday predictions. President Packer said, “we live in troubled times – very troubled times. We hope, we pray for better days. But that is not to be. The prophecies tell us that. We will not as a people, as families, or as individuals be exempt from the trials to come. No one will be spared the trials common to home, family, work, disappointment, grief, health, aging, ultimately death.” Then in the October 2001 General Conference President Hinckley said, ”I do not know what the future holds…. I wish to remind you of the warnings of scripture and the teachings of the prophets which we have had constantly before us. I cannot forget the great lesson of Pharaoh’s dream of the fat and lean kine and of the full and withered stalks of corn. I cannot dismiss from my mind the grim warnings of the Lord as set forth in the 24th chapter of Matthew.” (I reread the 24th chapter of Matthew and realized that the events described are not those for which I would want to be found unprepared.)

Like a beacon of hope, the salient point of President Packer’s message was the then delivered, when he proclaimed, “We need not live in fear of the future. We have every reason to rejoice and little reason to fear. If we follow the promptings of the Spirit, we will be safe, whatever the future holds. We will be shown what to do.”

In his address entitled “The Times in Which We Live,” President Hinckley went on to say, ”I do not believe the time is here when an all-consuming calamity will overtake us. There is so much of the Lord’s work to be done. Let us not panic or go to extremes. Let us be prudent in every respect.” He continued his counsel, giving us four ways, to prepare for the future. I believe we see prophetic insight into our current-day problems (and need for emphasis) based on the order of his admonitions. (1) “I urge you as members of the Church to get free of debt where possible… and have a little laid aside against a rainy day.” (2) “..have some food set aside that would sustain us for a time in case of need.” (3) “move forward in faith in the Living God and his Beloved Son.” (4) Pay and honest tithing and fast offering. “..he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming.” (D&C 64:23)

In our day of anxiety, may we all turn to the words of the prophets and renew our dedication to follow the Lord. As President Hinckley stated, “Our safety lies in the virtue of our lives. Our strength lies in our righteousness.” And let us remember the Savior’s words; “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27)

With Love, Bishop Gremillion

June presidency message
by Cheryl Boyle

          With my new call to the Primary, children have been especially on my mind.   I have been thinking of how I want to have every child feel loved and also help them to know that they are loved by our Heavenly Father and Savior.
          In Elder Neil L. Andersen’s talk this past conference, he told of an experience in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. At a meeting, the chapel was not large enough for the 2, 000 members and they met out of doors. The property was surrounded by a wrought-iron fence and many children were outside looking in. At a gentle prompting from his wife, he approached the podium and asked the district president to welcome the children outside the fence to come join them inside. At the invitation the children came running—some with tattered clothes and bare feet but all with beautiful smiles and excited faces.
          I was especially touched by this story and couldn’t help but think about a talk I have recently read by Elder M. Russell Ballard. In it he said, “Remember, every individual child of God is equally important to Him. His love is not predicated upon membership in the Church. His love for His children knows no bounds and is absolutely unconditional. Likewise, our loving service to His children should be freely and fully extended to each child. The needs of children of other faiths in our communities merit our consideration regardless of their attitudes or feelings toward the Church. We must teach our own children to love and appreciate children of other faiths. Our love and service should be extended to all children everywhere. Find them and invite them, love them without reservation, and serve them because they are all children of God . . .”
          Some children do not come from “picture-perfect” families. Elder Andersen said, “While a child’s earthly situation may not be ideal, a child’s spiritual DNA is perfect because one’s true identity is as a son or daughter of God.”
          President Thomas S. Monson has said: “Help God’s children understand what is genuine and important in this life. Help them develop the strength to choose paths that will keep them safely on the way to eternal life.”
          Elder Neil L. Andersen said of his experience in the Congo. “I was deeply moved by this experience and saw it as symbolic of our need to reach out to the youth who feel alone, left behind, or outside the fence. Let us think about them, welcome them, embrace them, and do everything we can to strengthen their love for the Savior.”
          May we do likewise. “Whoso shall receive one such . . . child in my name receiveth me” (Matthew 18:5).

May presidency message
by Diane Naylor

We are consistently blessed by inspired counsel from our church leaders as to how we can become even more valiant in our discipleship of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As we take this counsel to heart and desire and devise ways to change our lives to be more
in line with God’s will, we will find and act on opportunities to serve others in Christlike ways. In the recent General Conference, we were invited to help in the ongoing rescue and relief of refugees fleeing their homelands because of persecution or civil war. We may wonder what we can realistically do, and the happy answer is, A LOT!
May I suggest a few ideas:

Contribute generously to the Church Humanitarian Fund. These sacred funds are carefully channeled into many worthwhile projects and relief efforts world-wide.
Follow refugee relief efforts such as “Serve Refugees” on Instagram and Facebook. These posts offer ideas of how to help, as well as success stories.
Get involved with local organizations that directly serve refugees in our own community. One of these is the International Refugee Center, based here in the Salt Lake City area. See the document below for specific ideas and information on how you and your family can make a difference right here at home!

In his conference talk, Elder Kearon of the Seventy said, “If you are asking, ‘What can I do?,’ let us first remember that we should not serve at the expense of our families and other responsibilities, nor should we expect our leaders to organize projects for us, but as youth, men, women, and families, WE CAN JOIN IN THIS GREAT HUMANITARIAN ENDEAVOR.”

It is my testimony that as we freely and generously share our time and resources with those in great need, we, in turn, will feel our Father’s love and realize great personal blessings.

In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Diane Naylor
*See volunteer opportunities above.

April presidency message
by Gene Miller

Spring is my favorite season. I am not sure why, the reasons could be many. Perhaps because I love baseball and spring means a new season. Perhaps because I grew up in Anchorage and I was tired of the long, cold winter. I love tulips and they are a spring flower. Whether in Alaska, Utah or many other places that have four seasons, spring is the time the world changes from a brown and seemingly lifeless world to a world teeming with birds and animals and bursting with green trees and green grass and the many beautiful colors of blooming trees and flowers. Spring also reminds me of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

There are many people who feel like life is long and a cold and lonely existence. When we commit sin we can feel down, full of darkness. Satan wants us to think that life has no meaning and that we can never change ourselves or our lives. Satan denies the atonement and the life renewing blessings it gives us. Satan is a liar. The Savior tells us “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” John 11:25. That scripture reminds me of spring.
When the Lord tells us to be “born again” he wants us to change from our carnal and fallen state to be more like him. All of us must be born again and change from a carnal and fallen state to a state of righteousness. Mosiah 27:25. I can associate the change in my heart to the change that spring brings to the world. When we repent and forsake our sins we are renewing our souls. See, D&C 84:33.

All we have to do is follow the Savior. (Matt 16:24-25). As Alma taught to Helaman, “it is easy to give heed to the word of Christ, which will point to you a straight course to eternal bliss”. Alma 37:44. Christ also tells us, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. . . . For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matt 11:28, 30. The Atonement of Christ is real and can give us joy and happiness in this life and for eternity.

March presidency message
by Kerry Olipant

Next month we will again gather to hear the words of our prophets and other leaders in General Conference. In preparation for that event I would like to list a few scriptures to remind us about the mission of the prophets and our responsibility towards them.
Amos 3:7
Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

D&C 43:2-7
For behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye have received a commandment for a law unto my church, through him whom I have appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelations from my hand.
And this ye shall know assuredly—that there is none other appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelations until he be taken, if he abide in me.
But verily, verily, I say unto you, that none else shall be appointed unto this gift except it be through him; for if it be taken from him he shall not have power except to appoint another in his stead.
And this shall be a law unto you, that ye receive not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations or commandments;
And this I give unto you that you may not be deceived, that you may know they are not of me.
For verily I say unto you, that he that is ordained of me shall come in at the gate and be ordained as I have told you before, to teach those revelations which you have received and shall receive through him whom I have appointed.

Jerimiah 1:5
Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Luke 6:13
And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;

Ephesians 4:11-14
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Alma 49:30
Yea, and there was continual peace among them, and exceedingly great prosperity in the church because of their heed and diligence which they gave unto the word of God, which was declared unto them by Helaman, and Shiblon, and Corianton, and Ammon and his brethren, yea, and by all those who had been ordained by the holy order of God, being baptized unto repentance, and sent forth to preach among the people.

D&C 68:4
And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation.

May we always listen to the prophets and remember that we do not know completely the mind and will of the Lord—for as the heavens are higher than the earth are the Lord’s ways and thoughts higher than our ways and thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). Because of this sometime the prophets will tell us things that are new or hard to our understanding. It is our responsibility to humble ourselves and seek to bring our thoughts and ways in line with the Lord’s ways as given by His prophets.

February, 2016
Presidency message by Van Peterson

You Make a Difference

Taking the first step out the door to visit our families is usually the hardest. Part of my mission was in Concepcion southern Chile where winters are cold windy and wet. I remember stepping from our warm little apartment into the wind and rain – definitely character building, heading out to find someone who was ready to accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The first step was the hardest. After that as missionaries we were good and often prompted by the Spirit. From just 12 new members in that little branch there are now two missions, a temple, stakes, wards, bishops, relief society presidents – all programs of the church. Blessings follow a decision to serve and taking that first – sometimes inconvenient - step in the Lord’s service.

Brothers and sisters, you make a difference when you visit your families. You may not see a big difference with each visit but over time you will be remembered for your words, your service, and promptings by the Spirit as you touch their lives.

5/27/2022

4/7/2022

1/1/2022

8/28/2021

4/10/2021

1/5/2021

November Presidency Messageby Anne Draper

September Presidency Messageby McKenzie Anderson

August Presidency Message​by Lisa Young

July Presidency Messageby Bishop Dave Crabtree

June Presidency Message​by Katie Sorenson

May Presidency Messageby Meg Dawson

April Presidency Message​by Russ Smith

March Presidency Messageby Vaughn Cox

January Presidency Messageby Kurt Young

December Presidency Messageby Kerry Oliphant

November Presidency Messageby Van Peterson

October Presidency Message​by Rick Evans

September Presidency Message​by Lisa Young

August Presidency Messageby Robyn Olsen

July Presidency Messageby Kerry Oliphant

June Presidency Message​by Bishop Gremillion

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April Presidency Message​by Meg Dawson

March Presidency message​by Chad Hansen

February, 2018 Presidency MessageBy Mark McKinnon

January, 2018 Presidency Messageby Kerry Oliphant

December, 2017 Presidency Message by Vaughn Cox

November, 2017 Presidency Message​By Phil Smith

October, 2017 Presidency Message​by Lisa Young

September, 2017 Presidency Messageby Robyn Olsen

August, 2017 Presidency message​by Bubba Fenton

July, 2017 Presidency Message​by Bishop Gremillion

June, 2017 Presidency messageby Cheryl Boyle

May, 2017 presidency message​by Meg Dawson

April, 2017 Presidency message​by Russ Smith

March, 2017 presidency messageby Richard Scott

February, 2017 presidency messageby Van Peterson

January, 2017 presidency messageby Kerry Oliphant

December Presidency messageBishop Gremillion

November Presidency Message​Phil Smith

October Presidency Message​by Lisa Young

Presidency message by Robyn Olsen

August Presidency Messageby Bubba Fenton

July presidency message​by Bishop Gremillion

June presidency messageby Cheryl Boyle

May presidency messageby Diane Naylor

April presidency message​by Gene Miller

March presidency messageby Kerry Olipant

February, 2016Presidency message by Van Peterson