Family History Training for FSY
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| Elder Decano with Iba Ward Members. Some short introductions regarding Family History Program |
Cleaning the Chapel after the Church Services
In a delightful display of community spirit and dedication, the Saints from the Bulawen Branch recently took part in a chapel cleanup after their Sunday services. Through combined efforts, volunteers from the branch, including individuals of all ages, rolled up their sleeves to tidy up the sacred space where they worship each week.
The Power of the Scriptures
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| From the Scripture quoted in John 5:39 |
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."
Paul’s words remind us that the scriptures are a divine resource, given by God to guide us in every aspect of our lives. They aren't just historical records; they are living words that can shape our thoughts, actions, and spirits.
President Russell M. Nelson, in his talk "The Book of Mormon: What Would Your Life Be Like without It?" from October 2017 General Conference, spoke powerfully about the impact of the Book of Mormon in our lives. He said:
"When you reach up for the Lord’s power in your life with the same intensity that a drowning person has when grasping and gasping for air, power from Jesus Christ will be yours."
Studying the scriptures with that same intensity can bring us closer to the Savior and connect us to His power. President Nelson encourages us to ponder how different our lives would be without the guidance and comfort the scriptures provide.
Consider the words of Alma the Younger. In Alma 32:28, he compares the word of God to a seed:
"Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed... it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me."
This verse beautifully illustrates the transformative power of the scriptures. As we study and apply them, they grow within us, enlightening our minds and souls.
Elder David A. Bednar also emphasized the significance of the scriptures in his talk "The Spirit of Revelation" from April 2011 General Conference. He stated:
"As we read and study the scriptures, we learn that the Holy Ghost speaks to our minds and our hearts. The Holy Ghost can communicate with us individually and uniquely. Thus, every day becomes an experience in receiving revelation."
The constant study of the scriptures invites the Holy Ghost into our lives, enabling us to receive personal revelation. This helps us navigate our daily challenges and leads us on the path of righteousness.
In conclusion, the scriptures are one of the Lord's greatest gifts to us. They provide doctrine, correction, and instruction. They connect us to the Savior’s power, enlighten our understanding, and guide us by the Holy Ghost. My challenge for each of us is to dive deeply and more fervently into our scripture study, allowing their power to reshape and uplift our lives.
About the General Conference
General Conference is more than just a biannual event for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; it's a sacred opportunity for us to receive guidance, inspiration, and direction from our Church leaders.
The voice of the servants it is the same.
First and foremost, General Conference is a chance for us to hear the voice of the Lord through His chosen prophets and apostles. In Doctrine and Covenants 1:38, the Lord says, "What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." By listening to General Conference, we are following the Lord's counsel to heed His servants as if He were speaking directly to us.
Secondly, General Conference provides spiritual nourishment and personal revelation. As we listen to the talks, we can feel the Spirit confirming truths to our hearts and minds. It’s a time when we can receive answers to our personal prayers and concerns. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf once said, "General Conference is an opportunity to receive personal revelation as living prophets give counsel and direction." By humbling ourselves and coming prepared with questions, we open the door for the Spirit to teach and guide us.
Another key aspect of General Conference is the unity it brings among members. No matter where we are in the world, we come together as one body of Saints, listening to the same messages and feeling the same Spirit. This shared experience strengthens our unity and reinforces our collective commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Moreover, the teachings from General Conference help us navigate the complexities of our modern world. The counsel given by our leaders is timely and relevant, addressing the challenges we face today. For example, President Nelson’s emphasis on peacemaking in April 2023 reminded us of the importance of fostering love and understanding in a world often filled with tension and strife. Such guidance helps us live more Christlike lives and be better disciples of the Savior.
Concern about Cross
Why don't Latter-day Saints use the cross?
Are there any biblical verses that say not to use crosses?
Is it okay to use a cross in the chapel or wear it?
Does the church have specific instructions in Handbooks about the cross?
So, is using a cross fine?
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) typically do not use the cross as a religious symbol. The primary reason is that Latter-day Saints prefer to focus on the Living Christ—His resurrection and His life, rather than on His death. The emphasis is more on the joy and hope that come from His victory over death and sin, as well as the overall teachings and miracles of His life. Additionally, there is a desire to have distinctive religious symbols and practices within the LDS culture, such as images of Christ, temples, and the CTR (Choose The Right) shield.
Are there any biblical verses that say not to use crosses?
There is not a specific verse in the Bible that directly tells Christians not to use the cross as a symbol of worship or remembrance. The preference of Latter-day Saints to focus on symbols other than the cross is more about the cultural and doctrinal emphasis of the Church rather than a directive from scripture. The teachings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasize the living Christ, His resurrection, and the fruits of His Atonement.
Is it okay to use a cross in the chapel or wear it?
In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is not common to see crosses in chapels or for members to wear crosses as jewelry. This practice is tied to the cultural and doctrinal emphasis within the church, which focuses on the living Christ and His resurrection rather than His crucifixion. While there isn't a rule strictly forbidding the use of crosses, the choice to wear symbolic jewelry like a cross is a personal decision.
Does the church have specific instructions in Handbooks about the cross?
As of the current General Handbooks, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not provide specific instructions or policies regarding the use of the cross in decoration of church buildings or by members in their personal attire, like wearing cross jewelry. The approach to not prominently use the cross in chapels or as a personal emblem reflects more of a cultural and traditional preference within the Church.
So, is using a cross fine?
While it's not against church teachings to wear a cross, it's not a common practice among Latter-day Saints and its culture. The focus is more on the life, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus Christ rather than the cross itself or his death. As Gordon B. Hinckley stated, "The lives of our people must become the only meaningful expression of our faith and, in fact, therefore, the symbol of our worship."