General Conference Notes: Saturday Morning 2 April 2011

General Conference: Saturday Morning 2 April 2011

President Monson

Rededication of Hawaiian Temple. “The Gathering Place” performed by young adults from BYU Hawaii.

Three new temples: Fort Collins, Colorado, Idaho, on more.

Humanitarian aid to Japan, most recently. Over 40 thousand hours of service. Thanks for paying tithes and offerings and contributing to other areas. “Missionary work is the lifeblood of the kingdom.” Make a contribution to the general missionary fund of the church.

Elder Perry

The New Testament is focused on the life of Jesus Christ, the only person with dual citizenship in heaven and on earth. Centerpiece of sacred history. Savior should be centerpiece of our lives. We should cherish this book.

Timothy 4: These things command and teach: Be thou an example of the believers….Best way to do this is by observing the Sabbath day. “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy…The Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.” It has always included worship. Offering of a sacrifice. Sacrifice of animals; the Lord’s sacrifice for us. The Lord instituted the sacrament of the Lord’s supper. Bread representing his body; wine representing his blood. Jesus was the great last sacrifice. Witness to the Father that we do always remember Jesus. “If you do always remember me, ye shall have my Spirit to be with you.”

Jesus gave the Priesthood authority to His apostles. This Priesthood authority is here again today. Young men bless and pass the sacrament. Taking the sacrament is the center of our Sabbath observance.

1. Keep ourselves unspotted from the world.
Avoid worldly distractions on Sabbath. Dress in Sunday dress.

2. Go to the house of prayer and offer up our sacraments to the Lord.
Confess sins to others and to the Lord. Sacrament table is a place for self-inspection. Bring yourself in harmony to teachings of the church and with your fellow men. Keep His commandments, always remember Him, have His Spirit to be with us. Filled with gratitude that the Savior was willing to drink from the bitter cup for my sake. The sacrament cup of water can remind us of that.

3. Rest from our labors.
Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Be an example of the believers in preparing for the Sacrament and for the rest of the week. Arise and shine forth by keeping the Sabbath day holy.

The greatest joy we receive in this life comes from following the Savior and keeping His commandment.

Sister Stevens

Children are a key to helping us become like our Heavenly Father.

Bishop asked faithful members to pay their tithing. Next he talked to the children and asked if they’d pay their tithing. They said that they would, and they did. The Bishop asked if the adult members would follow the example of their children. They were blessed by doing so.

Except you become converted and become like a little child, ye cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. They are full of faith and susceptible to the influence of the Spirit. Children are often the first to love and the first to forgive. Little boy viewing pictures of Jesus reverently spoke his name and folded his arms. Those who are greatest in the Lord’s kingdom are those who look for opportunities to serve others.

We cannot see our Heavenly Father, but we can listen for His voice and follow His directions to help us through the trials of life. Children with bright spirits, they are teachable and willing to follow the Lord.

Jesus took the little children one by one and blessed them and prayed for them. “Behold your little ones.” Embrace them with our eyes and with our hearts. Appreciate them for who they are, spirit children of our Heavenly Father. “God gave us families to help us become what he wants us to be.”

In our families we can learn to become more Christ-like. The divine attributes hold a key to helping us unlock our own spiritual gifts. Jesus is the Christ, the One perfect Son. May we all have a heart to follow His example.

Elder Gonzales

He and his wife were impressed with people in Ghana and Nigeria. They had such a willingness to follow Christ. We have the duty to invite people like this to come and see what we have to offer. They can know that Heavenly messengers restored the Priesthood and that Christ’s true church is here on the earth. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

1. Followers of Christ are loving people.
We follow Christ because we love Him. Through love, Jesus was obedient to all the will of His Father. The atoning sacrifice is the greatest act of love ever. As Jesus followed the Father, we should follow Him. His tender mercies will make us mighty. We need to withstand adversity and temptation. “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” A young man from Ecuador served a mission even though his family said they would disown him. Later, his mother asked him to stay longer because of the blessings they were receiving. He is now a Patriarch. The way we treat others show the extent to which we are willing to follow the Savior.

2. Followers of Christ make and keep covenants.
Covenants were made in Heaven. The Savior was baptized to fulfill all righteousness; He made necessary covenants and set the example. Making covenants is an expression of love: Yes, I will follow Thee. All things will work together for our good if we make and keep our covenants. The power of our covenants is greater than any challenge we face or we may face. It will qualify you to receive all the promised blessing. Invitation to non-members to enter the covenant of baptism. We are happier when we follow the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ; the blessings of heavens will come to us.

Elder Richards

As a surgeon much of his time has been taken up thinking about pain. What purpose does pain serve? Pain is a gage of the healing process. It often teaches the patient patience. Trials that bring pain are a part of this life. Opposition is part of Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. The Savior is not a silent observer. He knows and understands our pain. Come boldly to the throne of grace that we may find mercy and help. There is balm in Gilead; there is a Physician there.

Spiritual pain can lie deep within our souls. There is a cure. Repentance is the key. Forgiveness comes from the Father through the Son. Christ was lifted up on the cross that He might draw all men unto Him. His purpose is to lift, bless, strengthen, guide, and forgive us. His bowels are filled with mercy; he knows how to succor us. Jesus chose to learn by His own personal experience.

Jesus healed all that came to Him. He turned none away. Sometimes a healing takes away our burdens; sometimes we are given strength to carry our burdens. In Him we can find rest to our souls. Our pain, worrying, suffering, and fear can be swallowed up in His loving balm.

Elder Cook

Women are incredible. Usually they are more religious. Women by divine nature have the responsibility for nurturing in home and family and other settings. I appealed to the Lord, and He came to my aid. Jesus will sanctify our service for our good.

Looking through a purse to find identification. Strength of Youth; five scriptures. Recipe for Black Forest cake. A quiet example of a young lady living the gospel.

No woman should feel the need to apologize that she is a mother and a homemaker.

President Eyring

We must serve the poor and needy of the Lord’s children. He has created ways to serve those who need help. Our hearts are often stirred with feelings of sympathy. The Lord hears their cries and sees your compassion. He has invited us to consecrate our time, means, and help. Law of consecration, United Order, Church Welfare Program. They are for all times and all places. Out of love, we need to consecrate what we have to those who have need.

Opportunities that the Lord has provided for us to help others in need. Renew and strengthen your commitment to act. Pay attention to wake up calls. We have all been touched with feelings of sympathy for those we don’t even know. Turn feelings of sympathy into decisions to act upon your covenants.

Principles to help in the Lord’s way.

1. Everyone is happier and feels more self-respect when they can provide for themselves and their families, and then can reach out to help others.
I can have a surplus when I spend less than I earn; then I can help others.

2. Missed this one

3. Love family and work together.

4. Seek out the poor. The Bishop needs to seek out and provide help to those who still need assistance after they’ve done all they can do. Rely on inspiration of Relief Society president.

Self project

1. Prepare yourself and those you lead spiritually.

2. Choose people in kingdom or community

3. Work on feelings of unity. They can grow and become a lasting legacy long after the project ends.

“I love this work, and it is work.” (President Benson)

‎"We cannot give a crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return." -Melvin J. Ballard

Seize opportunities to lift up the hands that hang down and strengthen the feeble knees.

Sunday Session of Stake Conference Notes 20 March 2011

20 March 2011 Sunday Session of Stake Conference

Today Presidents Poulsen, Avarell, and Ewell released.

New Stake Presidency: Presidents Garvin, Kinser, and Andrews

President Poulsen

Expressions of love and appreciation for us as his brothers and sisters. Testimony of the restored church of Jesus Christ. It is true, brothers and sisters. If we follow the brethren and the Spirit, we will find peace and joy. Expressions of love and appreciation for his counselors and others he has worked with and for the Bishops. How I love my Savior. I know that He lives. I know that He is my Redeemer.

Be more loving to each other and to our children. If we truly love one another and care for each other, the blessings will flow.

Every morning, on bended knee, petitioning our Father to help us and our families. Morning Devotionals. We will know what we are to do, what we will say, who we are to serve.

Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God, and I love him with all my heart. Joseph Smith is a prophet of God.

Expressions of love and appreciation for his mother.

Sister Poulsen

Gratitude for members of the stake, for the stake presidency and wives. She wants us all to know that they love us. She has seen the hand of the Lord in all of our lives in the past nine years. She is grateful for the opportunity and that she was able to support her husband.

President Avarell

As we read the scriptures and find something new, the Holy Ghost testifies that it is true. That’s how He knows that Heavenly Father lives, that Jesus lives and atoned for us, that we have a prophet.

President Ewell

Keep your white shirts. It’s not about your white or your blue shirt. You represent Jesus Christ. You are preparing yourselves now for the very thing that you see today—to become like the two men that are here visiting us. They are men of God. The Spirit of God has worked upon them. Your new stake presidency is called of God. I endorse them to you. Stay on the path. How our family has been blessed by service in the church! How the Spirit of God has moved over our family to provide what is needed for their growth! Grateful to his wife for understanding and knowing that the gospel is true. Loves parents and ancestors who died for this church. “I know that God lives, and I do know that He is directing this work.” If miracles have ceased, it is because of lack of faith. But we have seen miracles in our stake. “Those miracles are to confirm to us His reality, so that we can continue on.” We have a prophet on the earth; there is a prophet today visiting us. Joseph was a prophet. The Book of Mormon is true.

Sister Garvin

We have some tall shoes to fill. Grateful for past presidency. She felt prompted to get ready for the evening meeting right away. Elder Christofferson were so kind and genuine; it was like they had always known them. “Maybe we shouldn’t be driving for the next couple of days…I promise that we will get a grip.” Testimony of God’s love for us. Jesus Christ Is our Savior; He loves us, and I love Him. The scriptures are true; the Book of Mormon is true. President Monson reads and prays daily. Testimony of prophet. Thankful for her wonderful parents. Grateful for family and children and for Kirk’s children. “I love them; they are my own.” I hope that you will accept Kirk and me and that we will do everything that we are supposed to do, and more.

President Garvin

Gratitude to Sister Poulsen. We need look no further than to the members of this stake to see examples of righteousness. Grateful to the outgoing presidency. I don’t know how I can fill their shoes. I know that there are 15 to 20 members of the stake that can serve better than I. (No, there are probably more like 25 to 30). He was called by a prophet of God. He has learned some things before he came here, but he knew the gospel truths before that. Gratitude for his wife. “I would not be here without her.” Gratitude for the sealing ordinances of the temple. The Book of Mormon is the word of God; it is a shield against the power of the destroyer. Joseph Smith was indeed as the prophet of God, holding all of the keys of all those who proceeded him. “I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me.” Until your testimony is strong enough, look to the brethren and trust in their testimony. Jesus lives, and with His stripes we are healed.

Sister Godwin

The change of leadership in the stake is a testimony to observe and see the workings of the Spirit. President Monson is a true prophet of God. It is a testimony to see how smoothly things go in a change of leadership. The first presidency and quorum of the twelve are inspired of God. No success in life can compensate for failure in the home. We have seen the deterioration of the family. Follow the counsel given by the prophets. They see far into the future and into the past. We are extremely blessed to be the recipients of their seership. Scriptures are true.

President Godwin

What a privilege to receive counsel from a prophet. He testified that the outgoing presidency has loved and served us. He’s looking forward to working with new presidency. White shirts and ties are the uniform of the Priesthood. The gate is narrow and the path straight. The Gate is Him. He is the Redeemer of the world and our personal Savior. It is a gift from the Spirit that he knows that Jesus is the Savior. The boy Joseph knelt in the Sacred Grove in humble prayer seeking—the Father and the Son appears to him. The restored gospel is here; we are led by a prophet today. As we follow the prophets, we are shielded and protected. The Book of Mormon is here for us not only as a second witness of Jesus Christ, but to give us direction.

Sister Morgan

What a blessing to be President and Matron of the Redlands Temple. Her heart broke over the devastation in Japan. She lived in Japan with her parents when she was 18 and 19. People sold their land to be able to go to Hawaii to be sealed as a family. It broke her heart to see so many lose their homes and the land. Thank you for going to the temple regularly. I know it is the House of the Lord; I feel His presence. I’ve never seen Him; I’ve never seen anything from the other side, but I know they’re there. Please go to the temple.

President Morgan

He still expects President Poulsen to come and give him a hug when he goes to the temple. Every day is a good day in the temple. The ordinances performed in the temple are ordinances of exaltation. (The ordinances prior to that are ordinances of salvation.) His parents were married and sealed in the Logan Temple; he was born in the covenant. He had the faith that it was true when he was a young missionary. As he testified, he found that he knew. Ordinances are valid as long as we keep our covenants.

Elder Packer

A welcome to investigators. He loves seeing the missionaries sitting with investigators. Much has been spoken of the Holy Ghost. Through the power of the Holy Ghost the stake presidency was changed in the last 36 hours, and the loyalty of the members has changed like a snap of the fingers. Where else do you see that? Through the power of the Holy Ghost we can know the truth of all things.

1. I can see, hear, and know, and watch the mysteries of the gospel unfold through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Why wasn’t the young man bitter? His burden was lifted by the power of the Holy Ghost and the testimony that he already had.

There is a member of the Godhead.

Paul said, “The fruits of the Spirit are…” You don’t have to have the waves of intelligence constantly. Can you feel the fruits of the Spirit in your life? I knew when I had the Holy Ghost with me because of Paul. Equate the fruits of the Spirit with having the Holy Ghost with you. “I know that I have the Holy Ghost when I treat my wife (people) the way that I am supposed to.” (The man that he was speaking to was abusing his wife.)

Elder Christofferson

Expressing thanks to all who have participated in the preparations of the conference. “Please speak slowly; you are being translate…It didn’t work. I guess I didn’t speak slowly enough.” Words in Spanish. “If you don’t know Spanish, take it on faith that that made sense. That’s what I do.”

Expression of gratitude for other speakers. The Lord draws near and grants an extra blessing of His presence to those released and those sustained. Deepest thanks to outgoing presidency and their wives and families. The Lord has magnified you and given you added gifts and capacity to serve.

The Lord is the source for those who are called. He knows that the Lord has manifested His will for the new presidency. Pray for these men frequently in your homes. The Lord has added blessings to bestow on us and the stake as we pray for them. Petition the Lord for their sake and for our own.

He gets to see President Monson up close. He doesn’t give us a long list of to dos. He does a few things. Pay close attention. Take note and respond.

1. We need more missionaries; well prepared and faithful; YM and YW and couples! You can serve as church missionaries from your home. Couples do so much good, even if they don’t speak the language. “The worse they spoke, the more the people loved them.” Moroni at the top of the Tokyo Temple turned 90 degrees.

2. More attention to marriages and family. Some divorces are urgent and necessary and open doors for a better future. Difficult cases for the prophet to cancel sealings. Teach again and again and again the importance of what happens at home and between couples: honorable, faithful, fidelity. Guard against those things that will separate an eternal union. Brethren, lead out in spiritual things at home. You and your wives work together, but husbands lead out. You take the lead. Let that be your legacy.
(13 year old whose father was shot on Sunday called his family together for morning prayer and scripture reading, because of his father’s example.)
D&C 18:34-36 “You can testify that you have heard my voice and know my words.” Scriptures help us learn the language of the Spirit and recognize the voice of the Lord. Even when we can’t be with our children, they can have the voice of the Lord.

3. Look after one another; minister to one another; rescue both temporally and spiritually. Even with President Monson’s heavy responsibilities, he finds time to minister personally. Apostle of Compassion. He acts in faith. He does what he can now—smile, handshake, blessing, prayer. He is a wonderful model for us to follow. Do what we can now and have faith that the Lord will provide.
D&C 123:13 Let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power. And then we can stand still with the utmost confidence that we will see the hand of the Lord. (Florence, though homebound, saved the life of someone who was near suicide through visiting teaching by mail.)

We can all have access to the Gift of the Holy Ghost and the witness of the Holy Spirit. Jesus asked the Apostles to wait until they received the Holy Ghost. He is essential to help us remember what we know, what we’ve been taught; essential to help us understand; essential to give expression with a divine witness of the truth of what we receive or speak. More powerful than seeing or feeling or touching. It is possible to doubt your senses. The witness of the Spirit cannot be doubted or forgotten. More powerful than any other form of testimony. Available to everyone who will seek it.

Jesus is His Son, the Only Begotten. The Father and the Son came to boy Joseph when he asked for guidance. They commissioned him as the prophet of the restoration. Joseph was faithful despite all of the challenges and sacrifices, even to death, in maintaining the cause of the Father and Son. He bore witness of the Savior that is incomparable. “Joseph, this is My Beloved Son.” We can all receive this same witness through the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost will be with the new presidency in all they do. It will make your testimony powerful and convincing. As you follow that Spirit, in your home there will be food, enough for you, and a little extra so that you can share. You will know that the Lord knows you and is looking after you. You will feel His love more than ever before. You will have a sense of His approval as well as His love.

Adult Session Stake Conference 19 March 2011

19 March 2011 Adult Session Stake Conference Notes

President Ewell

He went snow camping with YM. He woke up very claustrophobic. Happy to get out of his cave in the morning. Even though his fear was irrational, he could not shake it.

1. The Fear of Man (Lucifer)

2. The Fear of God

Both can motivate us to action.

King Noah feared Abinidi’s words. Then when his high priests taunted him, he delivered Abinidi up to be killed.

Pilate also fear men and decreed the murder of our Lord and Savior.

The third the host of heaven also had fear. They were fearful of failure.

When we fear God, we become motivated to action by our love of God. That’s why shy missionaries goes out and serve, youth stand up for truth, etc. We love God and trust in His power.

Faith in God can help us to be more adventurous. Others may view us as crazy. Having faith in God can be an adrenaline rush. (spiritual) Faith is invigorating.

Our testimony can become so firm that trusting Him becomes second nature.

“I was reading the scriptures and found the following….Don’t you think we need those blessings in our life?”

Our obedience is rewarded with increased faith and trust in God. Our faith can replace our fears.

Is the course that I am pursuing acceptable to the Lord? We can receive confidence and assurance. We will also view some of our weaknesses and know what we need to work on.

More excited about what I can become than feeling “O wretched man that I am.”

Accounting the many spiritual experiences that he has had in the stake presidency.

The Lord is concerned about each of us individually, not just with this big organization.

Every day, take an inventory of our behavior. What motivated my behavior today?

God lives; Jesus Christ is His Son; and we are His.

President Avarell

Help our sons be better husbands and fathers. We can do this by having better marriages ourselves.

How can Bob and I have a better marriage? Listen to the promptings of the Holy Ghost.

1. Love our spouse.
Treat Bob like he is the most important person in the world.
“We loved Him because He first loved us.
Work on your own imperfections instead of seeing other people’s.
Overlook “toothpaste on the mirror.” Let the small things go.
Pray for miracles that our eyes will be closed to the little, inconsequential things.
(Saints recognized Wilford Woodruff; federal officers did not.)

Fay White

Marry the proper who in the proper where. (President Kimball) You will have an infinitely better chance of having happiness throughout eternity.

Why is it so important to have a forever family? A temple sealing is much more than a big happy family reunion at the end of this life.

D&C 132

The ultimate glory of temple sealing is exaltation. All of the covenants that we make in the temple are central to eternal progression.

UN has a policy on keeping families united. Sister White is from Malaysia. She has to prove that her past is good, that she is a good citizen, that she truly is married to her husband, that they have a real relationship, in order for her to stay here with her husband.

We need to uphold our covenants singly and as a unit. The Lord should be a third companion in our marriage.

Set your standards high; prepare yourself for the temple, and look for a temple sealing. It is all about your divine potential to become like your Heavenly Father.

If we live righteously, we can invoke the powers of heaven into our lives every day. We have the potential to become like our Heavenly Father.

President Poulsen

President Poulsen related his experience at 17 when he was kicked out of the popular group because he would not drink or smoke with them.

He was lonely for 3 months. Then he met his wife.

Where does his energy come from.

John 13:44,45: A new commandment…..

1 John—Beloved, if God so loved us, we should love one another.

President Monson—Happiness the object of our existences. 4 hallmarks of a happy home.

#3 A legacy of love

If we love one another and truly understand what love means, miracles will happen.

If you want your children to have courage and fortitude, love them. Look at them through the Savior’s eyes and how He loves His children.

He was born 2 ½ months early. His parents gave him an extra measure of love to help him grow and survive. (Mother and father had to feed him every 30 minutes.)

His stewardship as a stake president, he wants us to know that we are loved.

The genes of our very brains can change. The glass is half full. Fill it.

His love is a result of his parents’ love for him.

How long will our children be with us?

Adults—with we are tender to spouses (and others), if we are affectionate, we can change the very structure of our personalities.

We will have more of the Savior’s love, and we will be able to love more profoundly. Build a legacy of love.

Elder Packer

“I’ve eaten a ton of spinach; I’m feeling good.”

I’m impressed with those of you that are here and that are single. I’m impressed with the single moms that are rearing their children in the church.

A prophetic priority to rescue people (President Monson) He goes with stake presidents to visit young people 19 to 25 years old.

Preach unto them repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. Teach them to be humble, meek, and lowly in the heart…to withstand every temptation of the devil.

1. Repentance—committing people. Commit people to read, pray, and go to church.
Teach my kids how to commit. Repentance really is commitment.

Sister called by 24 year old counselor to be a RS pianist. She did not play the piano. She learned how to play the piano.

2. Preach to them to have Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
24 year old college student aged students what are the rules of this class?
(The boy who had his lunch stolen was willing to take the whipping for the boy who stole it. “I will love you forever for what you did for me.”)

3. Teach them to have meekness and lowliness of heart.
Gratitude of man who was dying of cancer.

4. Teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil

“The that line”—easy to rationalize that it’s not that bad.

5. Teach them to never weary of good works.
92 and 90 year old that took care of the nursery children during RS meetings.

6. Teach them from the Book of Mormon

Elder Christofferson

He had the stake presidency and their wives stand, and then he thanked them for all of us for all that they’ve done to serve. Then he thanked the congregation for responding to them and supporting and sustaining them. Their offering has been accepted by the Lord. The Lord has found their offering worthy.

If we’ve come with open hearts, ready to receive what the Lord will give to us, we will receive.

Faith is what we need the most. Faith in Jesus Christ is a Gift of the Spirit; it comes through the Holy Ghost.

1. FAITH In his epistle to the Romans, Paul—for whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved.
Calling upon the name of the Lord is more than saying His name. The name of Christ refers to what He is: His essence; His character; His Being.
“Tell them that I Am has sent you.” (Lord to Moses)
His glory and His power are other elements of His name. When we speak in His name, it is by His authority and His power. When we take upon us His name, we commit to keep His commandments.
Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (By the teaching of those who have authority and by His Spirity.)
Continue to feast upon His words by those who have taught and by His Spirit.
The scriptures hold a great quantity of the word of God. We can all have a copy. One of the reasons we have that privilege, is because we need it.

Add to faith, your constant study of the word of God, especially in the Book of Mormon. We have it to help us develop faith and develop commitment. It is the tool of conversion.

2. Teach unto them repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ.
Repent all ye ends of the earth and have faith in me…(Moroni 7: 34)
It does take some faith to repent, and it does take repentance to develop faith. Repentance adds to our faith; it makes our faith stronger; baptism further adds to our faith.
We have a covenant that is just between the Lord and us—very individual. This adds to our faith through his great love for us and his promises to us. The promise of baptism, the covenant of baptism is individual. As we put ourselves into alignment with His will, our faith will grow. Faith is a reward for obedience. The greater the measure of obedience, the greater the faith. (McConky)

3. Sacrifice—something inherit in sacrifices we make to God that adds to our faith. Universal sacrifice that the Lord asks of all of us—bring ye all the tithes… (a broken heart and a contrite spirit). Obeying the law of tithing and offerings brings great faith and confidence, especially in prayer. One knows because he’s been faithful in this commandment, his prayers will be heard.
a. opening the windows of heaven and powering out a blessing; not room enough to receive it.
b. I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes. We need the help of the Lord to help us preserve the fruit of our labors at home, church, work.
Mosiah 15:7 Abinidi prophesying about the coming of Christ. “The will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.” If we would offer a sacrifice in the similitude of His, it would be to offer up our will, have it swallowed up in the will of the Father. If we consecrate our will to His, we will receive the blessings whether we are called to do great things or not.

Mosiah—Ye who have not, and yet you have sufficient to remain from day to day—“I give not because I have not. But if I did have, I would give.”

The Lord is saying that He’ll judge and I don’t have to. “I the Lord will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.”
Have faith to change what should be changed.

(Not to be shared--Closing message only for our stake)

Live as Daughters of God

San Bernardino Stake Women’s Conference 5 March 2011

p. 263 Go Forth With Faith

Sister Flora Morgan Redlands Temple Matron (2009—2012)

One of the joys of a small temple, you become a smaller family group, and you get to see and recognize people that serve there.

“The thing about growing old, is that when you wake up with a new pain, you can just about expect it to become a new part of your life.” (Sister Hinckley, not exact)

“I want the Lord to know that I was really here and that I really lived.

“I knew that if I started to go down, he would catch me. He believed that I could do it, so he gave me space to try. She tried everything she could to reach her big brother. That’s how she learned to swim.

Jesus is there to catch me if I fail. Too many times I’m like Peter.

If the winds came from the NE, the sea could become violent. 4^th watch, 6 a.m. The disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea. (Galilee) Jesus, “Be of good cheer for it is I; be not afraid.” “Lord, if it be thou, bid me to come to the on the water.” “Come.” Peter started to walk on the water to go see Jesus. The boisterous wind made him doubt and he began to sink. “Lord, save me.” “Oh thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt.” Disciples recognized that Jesus was the Son of God. The distractions can make us afraid. It is not easy to step out into the darkness, to step into the water.

Boyd K. Packer—needed to find home in SLC. Harold B. Lee said he should proceed. Boyd K. Packer said there was no way for him to proceed. All of their funds had been spent on education. President Lee, “I know that it is right.” President McKay, “You do this; it is right.” Lee, “Do you know what is wrong with you? You always want to see the end from the beginning.” “Dispute not because you see not; you receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.” Walk to the edge of the light and even a few steps into the darkness.

If you walk into the light, there is more light further on. Engineer to Brother Talmage: Look at the engine headlight. Doesn’t that light up the track for a hundred yards or more? The light is always ahead of me. For a few yards or even a few feet, the track ahead of us is clear. Keep moving forward. We can go on just that little bit farther and try a little harder.

“The Lord in his great infinite goodness does bless and prosper those who put their trust in Him.” (Helaman) Because of ease and prosperity, the people forget the Lord. Unless the Lord visits His people with death, terror, famine, and pestilence, they will not remember Him. Avoid places of physical and spiritual contagion. Sometimes we put ourselves in harm’s way; we don’t want to do that. Do mistake smallpox for chickenpox.

We are SO blessed to have Redlands Temple so close. We need to do all that we can to get to the temple. The temple will not make our problems disappear. But it will arm us to face our challenges. We are blessed through temple service; plus, we bless those who cannot receive these blessings for themselves. We go to the temple often because we learn by repetition. We need to do more than get our feet wet. (Waters to the ankles, to the knees, to the loins, a river that I could not pass over, waters to swim in.) Make the temple a great part of our lives. The temple gives us the strength we need to face our challenges. It is a place where we can worship the Lord with all our hearts.

Sister Morgan lived with her family in Japan where she learned ancient style of flower arranging. She had to arrange her flowers within the “V” inside the vase. Sometimes we need to saw off boughs to make them fit into the “V.” Sometimes we need to trim away things that we see as beautiful in order to make the arrangement fit perfectly into the “V” making it look like one plant growing together.

Sometimes we must trim away some of our bad habits in order for us to get our temple recommends. We need to trim away some of our lives to meet the requirements. We won’t miss them. A temple recommend is a wonderful thing to have.

“Remember that it is upon the Rock of our Redeemer that you must build your foundation.” A sure foundation; if we build upon it, we cannot fall. The devil will send forth his shafts in the whirlwind. We need a firm foundation.

Her husband saw a huge dark cloud approaching. We knew that hail would accompany any rain that fell. This would ruin the wheat crop. His father and he knelt and prayed, reminding the Lord that this crop would bring in the money to send him on a mission. He asked Father to bless the crop against the elements and to preserve the crop. The clouds kept approaching, but her husband trusted in his father’s faith. When the storm reached their land, it parted and went around their crop. When it past their placed, it gathered together and went on. Only the edges were damaged, to show them what could have happened. He was able to go on his mission.

Hoover Dam, tall and in a narrow gorge, curvature towards water. A firm foundation built into the rock. (Look up full scripture.)

Commit your life to your Father in Heaven, to His Son, to the Church, and to the Temple. If you cannot go to the temple at this time, do the research. Prepare names for temple ordinances. We can do this from our homes. Prepare yourself; live your lives so that you can be worthy to go to the temple. It can be a rock and a sure foundation in your life.

Narration from RS presidents:

“Be strong and of a good courage.” We need stronger families and stronger homes. Righteous sisters seek out and help those in need. Be steadfast and strong. Have Savior as God. God is awake, and He is in charge. He is at the helm.

“Courageously” I Know He Lives—This is my one chance…I’ll stand with Him courageously.

“Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God.” We need to be mothers that teach and train our children in modesty and righteous. As women of virtue, seek to bring the light of the gospel into our homes.

“Virtue” No matter what the world may do, I am a daughter of God and I am holding on to virtue. I am confident in my divinity. God has placed beauty in each one of us, and that beauty shines when we live lives of virtue.

“I am the Light that shineth in darkness. Put your trust in that spirit that leads to do good.”

We have the gospel perspective. We reach out to our sisters through visiting teaching to provide temporal and spiritual nourishment to those in need.

“Be Not Afraid”

Live like you believe; live like you know; it’s one sure way that your faith will grow. Listen to your heart; search in your soul and you’ll find the strength that you need—His Light, the gift of His peace. When you live like you believe. When you find yourself alone and afraid questioning the choices you’ve made, hold on.

Be not afraid, only belief. Ships are safe in harbor, but that is not what ships are for. We need to do more; we need to reach out and serve. As daughters of God, we were born to lead.

“Strong and Courageous” Don’t be afraid; let your heart believe there are a million shining stars up there that you can’t even see, and you are worth more than all of them combined. Sometimes it’s hard to see the Father’s grand design. Don’t be dismayed, He knows your name. There is a way, be not afraid. You have the hope of Christ.

A woman of faith: The things that are seen are temporal, but the things that are not seen are eternal. A woman of faith trusts God. She knows of His interest in her. She knows that the Savior will call her by name. She is grateful for the prophet and his counsel. She shows her love for the Lord by the way she lives. She is courageous and fearless. She stays away from evil and unclean thing. Her goal is that she and her posterity will return with honor.

“Valiant Faith” I was born to be a warrior of light, with the faith to move mountains. I want to live my life with honor and faith. I want to return to His arms unashamed. It’s not enough for me to live it half way. I’ll follow Him fearlessly all of my days. I will live with valiant faith. I’ve lived for ages and prepared for this life; I won’t be confused and cross to the enemy’s side.

“God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and a sound mind.” “Thou are an elect lady whom I have called.” We cannot let the world define what womanhood means. We must live as daughters of God. Lead the world in everything that is virtuous, praiseworthy, and of good report. Be an influence for good in this world.

“Strong and Courageous” We are daughters of God. We will take the shield of faith and withstand the evils of these final days. At all times, in all things, in all places we will be strong and courageous.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” “It isn’t as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out; don’t worry.” (President Hinckley) The Lord will not forsake us if we put our trust in Him. We can trust in the Lord. Things will always work out. Heavenly Father is in church.

Sister Karen Rohm

“Be of strong and of good courage…” (Joshua)

The ship is safe in a harbor, but that is not what ships are for.

Our God is a refining God. “Sometimes live will come at us with great intensities…Metal is best refined in the furnace of perfection.” (Hinckley) “And being in an agony, He prayed more earnestly.” This type of prayer is part of the refining process.

Video Presentation: “Come Thou Font of Every Blessing”

President Poulsen

“He truly lives, and He is there for you and He is there for me.” If we put our total trust in Him, we shall make it through. We must trust Him and we must love Him. President Poulsen will be released as stake president in two weeks. Adult session of conference, he will issue to us a final challenge. I have the answer; I know; I have the answer to the question I’ve had for many years. “I cannot do what you’ve started to do. I will not, I cannot.” I know why I had the courage to do that. I know why I could climb Mt. Everest. I had the courage to ask the brethren to shave facial hair. I know why I had the courage for my profession. In two weeks, I’m going to teach you what that is about. Of course, it comes from the Savior and the prophet.

D. Todd Christopherson of the Quorum of the Twelve is also coming. Remember the reason for stake conference. We have conference in the church so that we can go and be prompted so that we know what we should do. We can receive personal revelations about what the Lord will have us do. It is important for us to attend this stake conference. God loves us; he loves you; many of you are struggling; many are not, but you will struggle. Put your faith in Christ. He will guide you; He will bless you; He will heal you. May the choicest blessings of heaven be yours. May you understand that He loves you and that He is with you. President Poulsen left us with his love and his blessing.

“Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”

Children Deserve Loving Families.

Children Deserve Loving Families.

http://heidisommerfeldstevenson.blogspot.com/2011/02/children-deserve-loving-families.html

UPDATE 19 September 2014:

Thanks to a new Facebook friend who has adopted two sons through Reece's Rainbow, today I found out that Carol Ann was adopted by a family in her own country. I no longer have to wonder. I am so glad. The mission to help place these children in loving homes is still ongoing. If you can help, you should. If you cannot adopt, you can offer some financial help so that others can.The following is a link to Jenny's page and her family's story of adotion: Bringing Home Oliver and Andrew

This is a link to offer a little financial boost to a family who is currently trying to bring home two little girls, Nadia and Nancy: To donate to their adoption fund, please go here:http://reecesrainbow.org/79270/sponsorcollier

Originally published 19 February 2011:

Yesterday I came across information about children who are waiting to be adopted. Most of these children currently live in the Ukraine or Russia. Some of them live in China. All that I know about Carol Ann is that she speaks Russian.

Most of the children are normal cognitively, but they either are HIV positive or have a physical deformity that keeps them from being adopted. Some of these children have Down's Syndrome.
Reece's Rainbow offers a way to help families who want to adopt make it happen. While the adoptive families must meet certain qualifications, we can help them defray the costs of the adoption by making a small donation towards it.

Yesterday, I fell in love with a little girl whose picture I saw. Carol Ann. She looks so much like one of my daughters. My father is from Germany, but his ancestry goes to places which are in modern day Russia and Ukraine. This girl captured my heart. I guess that she became the embodiment of children all over the world that need homes and families. If I could, I would take her in a heartbeat. But I don't know if that is possible. Still I want to see her placed in a loving family before she is transferred to an institution.

Please remember to pray for the children of this world. They are so dear to their Heavenly Father. They are so priceless, and they are the future.

I would also ask you to consider Carol Ann as a poster child for the children of the world. Please forward this link to everyone you know. Share the information through Facebook, your blog, or email. We could all make a difference in one child's live. We can be her miracle. I have never met this little girl, but I can tell you that I love her very much. I hope that she can go to the temple and become part of a forever family. It would even be wonderful if someone who has served a Russian speaking mission or has studied Russian would find it in his or her heart to choose this child for their family. But the most important thing would be for her to have a loving family.

Please follow this link to make a contribution towards Carol Ann's adoption:

http://reecesrainbow.org/carol-ann-31

Carol Ann

Girl, Born February 10, 2007

Carol Ann is a darling little girl and an orphanage favorite. YES, she is wearing the same dress as our sweet IVY with Down syndrome. (Ivy has a committed family now, but there are many other waiting children in this same orphanage who could be adopted with Carol Ann).

Carol Ann is totally normal cognitively. She is medically and physically healthy in every way outside of her HIV. She loves to read, sing, dance, and say poems. She will greatly benefit from a loving family of her own, and access to the medical care she needs to manage her HIV.

For more info and parent support on adopting and raising a child with HIV, please visit http://www.projecthopeful.org/

Please follow this link to make a contribution towards Carol Ann's adoption:

http://reecesrainbow.org/carol-ann-31

For more information about adopting these children or to view more children like Carol Ann that our in need of a family go here.

Book Review: The Last Treasure

I just finished reading The Last Treasure, by Janet S. Anderson. Honestly, if you believe in Malachi's promise of the hearts of the children turning to their parents and the parents turning to their children, if you believe in the importance of family across the generations and in the here and now, you will love this book. It's all about John Matthew's family and his desire for them to find the treasures that he'd had in life: his hidden treasures. It said so much more to me than was actually written on the pages. I look forward to reading more books by Janet S. Anderson.

Beginning Personal Progress (Again)

I began working on personal progress with my daughter on 14 February 2011. She has worked on some of these goals and achievements before, but her book has been misplaced. I was excited to learn from the Ensign that all of this can be tracked on-line now.
For family night we read from the First faith goal. We read the first two scripture selections. Yesterday morning I also read two conference talks about faith. Christine already has a habit of saying her personal prayers morning and night. So do I, but I am going to strive to make them more meaningful. President Poulsen has asked us many times to have a morning devotional. I don't have a habit of doing this currently, but I know that when I do so, I am closer to the Spirit, I am happier, and I deal with the challenges of the day better.
Christine wasn't excited that we chose to do this with her for family night. But the boys were at the singles' ward family home evening, and this gave us an opportunity to concentrate on this. For the next while, I want to help Christine get more excited about setting and keeping goals. She is already doing so many good things--especially volunteering at the library Monday and Wednesday mornings and serving as president in her Mia Maid class. She is making so many right choices, but I know that goal setting and achieving her goals will give her more confidence and increase her abilities. It will do the same for me as well.
I was impressed from the reading in Hebrews. Faith really is everything. It is more powerful that knowledge, I believe. I guess it is what even facilitates knowledge. Faith has to do with obedience and trust in the Lord. By and through faith, all things can be accomplished.
I also really liked what I read in a priesthood talk from Elder Oaks. It had to do with faith and priesthood blessings. These messages are so timely and important, especially as I deal with my feelings over the battle my sister has been having with cancer.
I am thankful for my Savior's love for me. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to work on these goals together with my daughter. I hope that I can help to make this project fun and full of growth and learning for both of us. I know that she will have to take charge of her own progress, but it will be wonderful to have some study time together.