This week on social media, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared messages on the importance of families, becoming disciples of Jesus Christ and having the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, called it a privilege to be reading the Book of Mormon again for “Come, Follow Me” study this year. He said that every time he reads the book of scripture, the Spirit prompts him with new ways of understanding the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“My hope is that all of you will have this same blessing of learning more about the Savior as you actively study these scriptures this year,” President Oaks said.
Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson invited her social media followers to make a list of things they can improve upon to be constant disciples of Jesus Christ, allowing them to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost.
Her own personal list includes prayer, scripture study and avoiding distractions.
Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a video in which he and his wife, Sister Kathy Andersen, taught an elementary school class in Quezon City, Philippines, where the Church has partnered with the school to teach children of all faiths principles such as the importance of family.
Elder Andersen taught that whether they come from families with two parents or are raised by single parents, extended family or others, they should treat their family nicely.
“Although the family situation of children may not always be ideal,” Elder Andersen said, “a child’s spiritual DNA is perfect because of his or her true identity as a son or daughter of God.”
Referring to the name of the school — Holy Spirit Elementary School — he said the Spirit can teach them that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. As the lesson concluded, Elder Andersen asked the students to sing “This Little Light of Mine.”
“OK, you let that beautiful light shine in your family,” said Elder Andersen after they finished singing.
The Relief Society general presidency — President Camille N. Johnson, Sister J. Anette Dennis and Sister Kristin M. Yee — shared the second part of a Q&A about the upcoming worldwide Relief Society devotional on March 17.
Individual Relief Societies will decide what time to watch the broadcast after it becomes available. The broadcast will last 40 minutes and should be followed by testimony meetings held by local units, a total of an hour and half to two hours.
It can be accessed on ChurchofJesusChrist.org and the Gospel Library App and will be available in 14 languages.
In a post on the Young Women Worldwide page, Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, said that smiling toward others is a way to show and share joy.
“We talk about receiving Jesus’ image in our countenance (see Alma 5:14),” Sister Runia said, “By smiling, we do just that!”
Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared a story from Primary general advisory council member Kathryn Godderidge in which her 2-year-old grandson began using a pair of binoculars during a sacrament meeting. When they tried to help him put the binoculars away, he said, “I need to see Mama on the organ!”
“I testify that as we begin to ‘see’ and engage all members of the congregation,” Sister Wright said, “our Sabbath day worship will become more joyful, sacred, holy and centered on Jesus Christ.”
Telling the story of a Scottish man stranded on an island who sang hymns to comfort himself, Young Men General President Steven J. Lund told youth that it is normal to feel isolated at times. He encouraged them by saying that despite feeling alone, the Lord is mindful of them.
“Even if you feel like you’re stuck alone on an island, you are not an outcast to Heavenly Father,” President Lund said. “He has wondrous experiences and blessings in store for you. Rescue is coming!”
Brother Michael T. Nelson, second counselor in the Young Men general presidency, told young men that the Lord has “great confidence” in them and will help them plan activities that will help their quorums realize their potential as a “smarter and wiser” generation.
“You might feel inadequate or unprepared,” Brother Nelson said, “but you can trust that the Lord can work through you.”
