When readers of the Ensign and Liahona open the October issues of their Church magazines, they'll see something new — an entire magazine focused on just one group: new members of the Church.
Every article in the October issues is focused on helping new members grow spiritually and progress in the Church. Articles also emphasize how long-time members and missionaries can support them.
"Members who are new in the Church sometimes stop to take a breath when they realize they have not only found a new faith, but a new way of life. They may feel overwhelmed when they realize that the changes in their lives have just begun," said Elder Jay E. Jensen of the Seventy, executive director of the Church's Curriculum Department and editor of the Church magazines.
"All of the material in these two magazines is aimed at assuring new members that they are up to the challenges they may see. We hope the articles will remind other members that they were new once too. We hope they will reach out to the newest members of their wards and branches."
In the October First Presidency Message, President Gordon B. Hinckley welcomes new members and testifies that they have indeed become a part of the Church established by the Lord Jesus Christ. "Continue with us. We need you. We will put our arms around you and be friends with you. We will do our best to comfort you, to make you feel welcome and accepted," President Hinckley stated.
There is also an article by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve offering counsel to new members on how to face challenges that might come.
"There are some things I wish you and every member knew, things that will provide spiritual strength for the road ahead," he wrote. After advising new members to persevere toward spiritual goals and enjoy the journey, he added, "Surely one of the greatest strengths and joys of membership in the Church is the fellowship of good men and women, new friends with whom we have so much in common. The Church is a community — a community of believers, a community of those striving to be faithful, a community of saints."
Both the Liahona and the Ensign carry an article offering testimonies of members from around the world. Both magazines include a variety of articles to help strengthen adult members. Topics range from practical hints for finding their place in the Church to personal recollections of a General Authority who was the only member in his family when he was baptized as a young man.
The Liahona, which serves members of all ages in many different languages, also contains articles for youth and children who are new in the Church — and for the members who will become their new friends.
The October Ensign includes additional articles for adults focusing on gospel knowledge that is unique to the Church — knowledge that came through the Restoration — and on resources that can help members and their families live the gospel day by day.
"We believe all members who read these magazines — members who have been in the Church for a few days or for many years — will find material to strengthen them in living the gospel," Elder Jensen said.
Extra copies of the magazine are being sent to local Church units for use by ward and branch leaders. Members who know of other people who could benefit from the October magazines are encouraged to contact local leaders and make them aware of the need.
Extra copies of this issue of the magazines will also be available to members who want to order them through Church distribution centers.
