October 2012 Testimony

Testimony of Eric Jamison

Bishop

I know God loves us and that he answers prayers. He is the father of our spirits and blesses us as much as we let him. He doesn’t stop loving us when we make mistakes. He sent Jesus to rescue us from our mistakes and to bring us safely back to him. Our Heavenly Father is more generous, forgiving, and merciful than most imagine. We can reach out to him without fear. We can depend on his love and on his awesome promises. He has given us the wonderful opportunity to live by faith and He “will support, and keep, and preserve us, so long as we are faithful unto him” (Alma 44:4). He is the source of light and love in our lives. He has called prophets, brought forth scripture, and restored the priesthood, and reestablished His church in these, the latter days.

October 2012 Relief Society Message

The Relief Society motto is: Charity Never Faileth. What a wonderful thought - that no matter what faces us in life, we can never go wrong by showing love and being charitable. In Moroni 7:47 we are told that "charity is the pure love of Christ". Elder C. Max Caldwell spoke about charity in the October 1992 General Conference. He stated: "The phrase ‘love of Christ’ might have meaning in three dimensions:. . . First, love for Christ. . . A second dimension of the meaning of charity is love from Christ (Ether 12:33-34). . . The third perception of charity is to possess a love that is like Christ (2 Ne. 33:7-9; John 13:34). Charity is not just. . . a word to describe actions or attitudes. Rather, it is an internal condition that must be developed and experienced in order to be understood. . . . People who have charity have a love for the Savior, have received of his love, and love others as he does." May we each take time to reflect on "the pure love of Christ", and then go about developing and experiencing the joy that comes from following the Savior.

October 2012 Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Wise Stewards Finance Tip Series 2, Article 6

“TEACH FAMILY MEMBERS EARLY THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKING AND EARNING.   “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread” is not outdated counsel. It is basic to personal welfare. One of the greatest favors parents can do for their children is to teach them to work. Much has been said over the years about children and monthly allowances, and opinions and recommendations vary greatly. I’m from the “old school.” I believe children should earn their money needs through service and appropriate chores. Some financial rewards to children may also be tied to educational effort and the

accomplishment of other worthwhile goals. I think it is unfortunate for a child to grow up in a home where the seed is planted in the child’s mind that there is a family money tree that automatically drops “green stuff” once a week or once a month.

–from Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s One for the Money Guide to Family Finance 

I am so grateful for parents who taught me at a young age not to fear good hard work.  I love feeling the satisfaction of a job well done.  One of my biggest goals is to pass this along to my children.  If you have a kid that’s less than enthusiastic about work, you may know what a challenge this can be.  If a young one doesn’t respond well to you “helping them” earn money you may want to enlist the help of trusted neighbors or extended family members where appropriate.  Sometimes mowing lawns or washing windows for someone else can get them excited about work and help them feel pride and responsibility.

October 2012 Newsletter Announcements

The Primary Program is fast approaching.  The practice will be held Sat, Oct 20^th from 12:30 - 2:00pm with pizza to follow.  The program will be on Sun, Oct 21^st at 1pm. 

The Ward Halloween Party is Sat, Oct 27^th at the Stake Center.  Trunk or Treat starts at 5:30pm and dinner follows at 6pm.  Look for sign-ups for food to bring for the dinner and come dressed in costume – there will be prizes!

September was a whirlwind as the Young Men built and launched rockets at Deseret Peaks near Tooele, completing many of the requirements for the Space Exploration merit badge. A huge thank you to Brothers Anderson, Jensen, and Pres & Sis Bracken for their help with their telescopes and knowledge of the stars as the youth worked on the Astronomy MB.

YW News: We want to welcome Beth as our newest Beehive! YW in Excellence is coming up on November 7 so please be working on your projects. Parents are invited to this special event where we will be having dinner and a program.

Note: The Sunday School lessons have changed from the printed schedule.  The lessons on the newsletter calendar are current. Sunday, October 14th is Lesson 36.

September 2012 Testimony

Testimony of Matt Shannon

Elders Quorom President

Years ago when I was serving in the Russia Novosibirsk Mission we were fortunate to have a visit from President Neuenschwander, then the President of the Europe East area. President Neuenschwander asked us a simple, yet interesting question. "What does missionary work entail? Why are you here?" The typical answers were given. To bring people to Christ, to baptize, etc... As I sat and pondered his question a thought came to me. I answered, to establish the church. He smiled at me and repeated my answer so all were sure to hear. That experience taught me that a missionary of the Lord has many responsibilities. To put it simply, to do anything the Lord requires in building his kingdom on the Earth. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we are all missionaries and share this great responsibility of establishing the Church, even here in Utah. I know that as we serve in the Church the Lord will bless us, our families, and our ward. In doing our home and visiting teaching we help strengthen the foundation of our ward. Each of us has the opportunity to serve in various callings and the Lord has challenged us to magnify those callings. By doing so we show our faith to those around us and especially to the Lord. He will bless you if you rise to his challenge. I know this to be true. I have felt his love and support throughout all of my church service. The Lord is our Savior and Redeemer. He restored this Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith. And he has entrusted it's continued growth to us. It is my prayer that we may serve diligently and earn the trust of our Heavenly Father, that the windows of heaven may be opened to us. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

September 2012 Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Wise Stewards Finance Tip Series 2, Article 5

“U S E   A   B U D G ET.   Every family must have a predetermined understanding of how

much money will be available each month and the amount to be spent in each category of the family budget. Checkbooks facilitate family cash management and record-keeping. Carefully record

each check when written and balance the checkbook with the monthly bank statement. Save and invest a specific percentage of your income. Liquid savings available for emergencies should be sufficient to cover at least three months of all essential family obligations. Every LDS family should file honest and timely tax returns. ” 

–from Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s One for the Money Guide to Family Finance 

It is essential to have a functioning budge and to know how much money goes in and out each month.  One thing that makes it harder to keep track is the use of debit cards.  Most of us no longer write checks every time we purchase something.  Swiping a card is so much easier, but it also makes spending money easier-and recordkeeping easier to forget.  Don’t forget to track all of your purchases.  Always review bank statements and reconcile your spending.  You don’t have to budget for an entire month, but do budget for a specific time period.  It is helpful to have this match your pay period whether that is monthly, bi-weekly, weekly, etc.  All these tips are meant to keep us out of pitfalls like the one in this quote from Elder Ashton: “Please listen carefully to this—and if it makes some of you feel uncomfortable, it is on purpose: Latter-day Saints who ignore or avoid their creditors are entitled to feel the inner frustrations that such conduct merits, and they are not living as Latter-day Saints should! Bankruptcy should be avoided, except only under the most unique and irreversible circumstances, and then utilized only after prayerful thought and thorough legal and financial consultation.”

September 2012 Newsletter Announcements

YW News: The YW had a wonderful time at Heber Valley Camp for Girl's Camp. They did certification, a sunrise hike, got foot soaks and pedicures from our loving Sis. Gerber, gave service, performed skits showing how they can "Arise and Shine Forth", were challenged physically and strengthened spiritually in the challenge course, and were able to bear testimony. It was a great camp filled with love and friendship.

McKenzee turned 16 and is the new Laurel president. Brianna is the Mia Maid president and Andi is the Beehive president. The YW want to thank Bro. Rowe and Bro. Anderson for all their help with our shooting activity.

Ward Adult Family Home Evening (18 and older) - Please join us for a free production of Are the Meadowlarks Still Singing performed by Hale Centre Theatre on Sunday, September 9th! Play starts at 7pm - so we'll meet at the church at 6:15 to ride together. Questions? Contact Sister Greene.

The Brigham City Temple Open House is from now until Sep 15^th.  Reservations can be made by online at www.templeopenhouse.lds.org or by calling 1-855-537-2000. The temple dedication will be on Sep 23^rd at either 9am or 12 pm at the Stake Center. All other church meetings will be canceled.  Please see a member of the bishopric for a ticket/recommend.

Life got you down? Start preparing now for our upcoming General Conference, October 6^th & 7^th.  It’s always uplifting!

August 2012 Testimony

Testimony of Heather Tingey

Relief Society 2^nd Counselor

I have come to know for myself that Joseph Smith is a true inspired prophet of God.  Because of his courage and obedience I am able to enjoy the blessings of the gospel every day.  I know we have a living prophet today, Thomas Monson, who is Heavenly Father's mouthpiece here on earth.  I know Jesus Christ lives and that through the power of the atonement we can find peace and be healed from any pain we encounter in this life.  He shows me love daily and fills me with the strength I need to do all he requires.  I love my Savior and Heavenly Father with all my heart.  I say this in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

August 2012 Relief Society Message

This month our topic from the Relief Society Declaration is "We are beloved spirit daughters of God, and our lives have meaning, purpose, and direction. As a worldwide sisterhood, we are united in our devotion to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Exemplar. We are women of faith, virtue, vision, and charity." 

Each of these three sentences is so important and could easily be discussed in many lessons. How wonderful it is that we know who we are, why we are here, and what we are to be doing during our stay on this earth. We are so blessed to have this knowledge - to know that our Heavenly Father loves us; and is aware of our daily lives - our hopes, trials, weaknesses and strengths - and that He desires to bless us. Let us turn to Him in faith and do as He would have us do.

August 2012 Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Wise Stewards Finance Tip Series 2, Article 4

“Learn Self-Discipline and Self-Restraint in Money Matters. Learning how to discipline oneself and exercise constraint where money is concerned can be more important than courses in accounting. Young couples should recognize that they cannot immediately maintain the same spending patterns and life-style as that to which they were accustomed as part of their parents’ family. Married couples show genuine maturity when they think of their partner’s and their family’s needs ahead of their own spending impulses. Money management skills should be learned together in a spirit of cooperation and love on a continuing basis.” 

–from Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s One for the Money Guide to Family Finance 

This is obviously a big warning about impulse buying, which is so easy to do. But once you learn to control your spending with small everyday items it doesn’t mean you can let your guard down.  As Elder Ashton indicates, self-discipline and self restraint are skills that need to be revisited continuously.  Many people – couples and singles – who have a change in their financial situation tend to let this principle slide.  The graduate who lived frugally for so long while in school and now has a job may want to splurge.  The couple whose children are finally out of the house may want to take that dream vacation.  The employee who gets a great promotion may think a little reward is in order.  These situations are a great opportunity to take a step back and re-evaluate your financial situation.  A reward/treat/pat on the back is a great thing as long as it fits into your long term goals.  So before you buy that new car/trip/pair of designer shoes, make sure it’s ⁽¹⁾something that you really can afford, and ⁽²⁾something your spouse – if you have one – can be happy with as well.   

August 2012 Newsletter Announcements

SEEKING: Participants for Ward Adult Family Home Evenings! May be single, married, short, tall, man or woman but must be over age 18 and willing to bond with your Ward Family by doing the following; meet for 1 hour on the 2^nd Mon of every month in the RS room at 7pm.  Activities will include but not be limited to; spiritual messages, activities and treats.  Service projects, outings, competitions, cook-offs, etc... are all optional. For more info or to share ideas, call Sister Greene.

Mark your calendars for Stake Conference, August 18^th & 19^th.  Priesthood Leadership is Saturday at 4pm and the Adult Session follows at 7pm.  Sunday morning’s session is at 10am with a choir prelude at 9:30am. Come early for a great seat and enjoy the spiritual uplift from listening to the choir.

The Brigham City Temple Open House will be held Aug 18^th – Sep 15^th.  Reservations can be made by calling 1-855-537-2000 or online at www.templeopenhouse.lds.org. The temple dedication will be on Sep 23^rd and all other church meetings will be canceled that Sunday.  Please see a member of the bishopric for a ticket/recommend.

The Ward Pool Party is on Sat, August 25^th from 8-10pm at the Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center pools.  This is in lieu of the annual ward campout this year.

YW News: At Youth Conference, President Nudd re-issued the 30 day Book of Mormon reading challenge.  There will be a fireside on Sun, Aug 26^th where the youth can share their increased testimonies.  Monica advanced to the Laurel class and Madi is now a Mia Maid.  Parents and YW are invited to attend the post-camp BBQ & awards ceremony on Wed, Aug 8th at 6:30pm, at the Adams' house.

Congratulations to the Hunsakers on the birth of their baby boy on July 22^nd.

July 2012 Testimony

Testimony of Angela Hunsaker

Relief Society President

My testimony is that I know God is a being with whom we are each allowed the privilege of a relationship.  When I nurture my relationship with Him, promises and covenants I have made actually do become true.  Because I am familiar with how I feel when He is near me (through the Holy Ghost), and because I want that feeling as often as possible, I have an easier time making right choices. I know His Son, Jesus Christ, performed the ultimate proxy sacrifice for each of us; and that when I repent, I truly feel different and cleansed. I know that any person set apart by the power of the priesthood has power given to them from God to protect and serve and guide His children. President Thomas S. Monson has that power for all the world at this very moment. Bishop Jamison holds that power for our ward, and righteous parents hold that power for their families. We are not left alone to navigate this life. There is more to come after this life, and this Gospel unlocks the very best of God's blessing to us. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

July 2012 Newsletter Announcements

YM - Boy Scout News
June was a busy month in the lives of the boy scouts in the Oquirrh 5th Ward.  They started out with the 50/30/20/12 where the scouts and leaders walked from our subdivision to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, then walked to the Draper Temple, totaling 20 miles on foot. The scouts then got on their bicycles and rode to the Jordan River Temple and on to the Salt Lake Temple, a total of 30 miles on bike.  Congratulations to Bro. Hare, Spencer, Tyrel, and Tyler for completing all four temples.  Congratulations also go to Luke, Ben, Dylan, Porter, Taylan, Nathan and Carter who made it to the first three temples and half of the way to the Salt Lake Temple.  A special thank you to those who helped along the way with food, water, and minor emergencies.  A job well done by everyone.  Thank you to Bro. Hutchinson for teaching the Citizenship in the Nation merit badges and Bro. Kajma and Tingey who helped in the swim checks and swimming merit badges during the month.

YW News 
Congratulations to Jennie and Elsie - high school graduates!  Aspen, Megan, Madi, Miranda and McKenzee will be dancing at Stadium of Fire.  MaKayla will be in the Days of 47 Parade (Color Guard). We're proud of all our YW and their accomplishments.  Please see the calendar for important YW dates - Baptisms (probably in the morning), Youth Conference and Girls Camp.

An exercise class will be held at the Stake Center every Friday morning at 9am, beginning in August. Kids are welcome to play in the nursery (and watch videos) while Moms workout. Contact Sis. Otteson in the 4th ward for more information.

The Ward Pool Party is on Sat, August 25th from 8-10pm at the Oquirrh Park Fitness Center Pools.  This activity will be in lieu of the annual ward campout this year.

June Testimony

The newsletter will feature a new section each month - testimony from a member of the Ward Council or Bishopric.  This month we are blessed to read the testimony of President David Thomas, Ward Young Men's President.

I have a very strong testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ. I know He lives and I know that the Church of Jesus Christ is the only true church here upon the earth. Through Jesus He restored the gospel through the prophet Joseph Smith. I know President Monson is our prophet today. It is my prayer that we all may become closer to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I say these things humbly in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

June Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Wise Steward Newsletter Series 2, Article 3

“Learn to Manage Money Before it Manages You.  Financial peace of mind is not determined by how much we make, but is dependent on how much we spend.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

–from Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s One for the Money Guide to Family Finance 

This is some of the soundest advice about money that money can buy…and it’s free!  We live in a time and culture where nothing is out of reach.  You don’t have to have money to buy what you want . . . or do you?   Is your approach to money management Proactive, or Reactive?  Living within one’s means can be challenging on a modest income, but as long as you spend less than you earn you can be in control of your money.  Make it a habit to save up cash before you buy something, not using credit.  Also watch out for situations that require a long term contract.  Cable and cell phone companies may give you a low rate if you agree to pay for years and often charge a big cancellation fee.  Consider pay as you go cell phone service, or a higher rate that you can cancel any time.  If your idea of managing the budget is making sure all the credit card payments are made, you’ve moved into a reactive situation and your money is managing you.  If this is the case, somewhere along the line you’ve spent more money than you’ve earned.  Correct this as soon as possible.  It may mean taking on extra work, selling some things, or cutting back on unnecessary expenditures.  The goal is to be in charge of where your money goes.    

June Relief Society Message

This month our first Sunday lesson from the Relief Society Proclamation is: Delight in Service and Good Works. These 10 Steps in Service were presented many years ago by Sister Susan Bingham, wife of our Stake President at that time.

1. Do Not Judge 

2. Pray for Inspiration 

3. Forgive and Forget 

4. Be Available 

5. Keep Confidences 

6. Be an Example of Faith 

7. Listen with Sensitivity 

8. No Trite Answers 

9. Do Not Criticize 

10. Love Others 

These ten concepts are worthy of pondering as we serve one another throughout our lives.

Remember the words spoken by Mother Teresa: "We can do no great things - only small things with great love."  Let us go about doing the works that the Savior would have us do, and our lives, as well as those around us will be blessed.

June Newsletter Announcements

The Ward Pool Party is on Sat, August 25^th from 8-10pm at the Oquirrh Park Fitness Center Pools. This will take the place of the annual ward camp-out.

YW News – Our YW had a lot of help from ward members for activities this month. Thank you to Bro. Christensen who taught the older girls about auto maintenance; Sis. Terry, Tingey, Rowe, and Gerber who styled the YW's hair for our "modest fashion show", and the Puentes and Gurneys for teaching all the youth salsa and country swing dancing for our combined activity.  The youth had a blast!

Camp Kickoff is June 6th. Parents are invited and encouraged to come from 7-7:30pm. Come learn what we are doing for camp and get your YW's permission slips signed.

YM News – The Scouts and Cub Scouts participated at Scout-O-Rama by hosting a knot-tying booth the first weekend in May.  The boys had fun making handcuffs with rope and there was a good turn-out with great help from the parents and leaders. The Scouts have been preparing for their upcoming hike next week – 50/30/20/12 (30 miles biking, 20 miles walking in 12 hours). Along with all their hiking and camping prep, they have attended the temple and were in charge of the flag ceremony for the Stake Court of Honor. Tyrel Gurney did a great job at being Master of Ceremonies.

Ward choir practice will resume in July.  Look for more information in next month's newsletter.

May Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Wise Steward Newsletter Series 2, Article 2

“Pay an honest tithing. Successful financial management in every LDS home begins with the payment of an honest tithe. If our tithing and fast offerings are the first obligations met following the receipt of each paycheck, our commitment to this important gospel principle will be strengthened and the likelihood of financial mismanagement will be reduced. Paying tithing promptly to Him who does not come to check up each month will teach us and our children to be more honest with those physically closer at hand.”                                                

                                                                                                                                                                                                      –from Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s "Guide to FamilyFinance" in the April 2000 Ensign

We’ve been commanded to pay tithing.  We’ve also been promised great blessings if we keep this commandment.  I’ve heard many stories about blessings received from the payment of tithing and even had my own personal experiences that have strengthened my testimony of this law.  Even without a show of divine intervention, it just makes sense.  The Lord gives us commandments that help us to be happy.  We may not understand the reasons at first, but sooner or later they become apparent.  The Word of Wisdom is seen as a strange commandment by those outside our faith, but as I get older I see the benefits in my body compared to those who have lived differently.  The act of paying tithing is something that takes discipline, and just like living the Word of Wisdom, the results aren’t always immediately apparent.  As Elder Ashton mentions, no one will be checking up each month to make sure you’ve paid, but when you are organized and disciplined with this principle, it lays the foundation for a responsible outlook on other financial matters.

May RS Message

It was wonderful to be gathered together with all of the sisters in the ward for our Visiting Teaching Conference last week! There is strength in unity. Here is one more thought to keep us motivated in our efforts to be better Visiting Teachers. This is from President Barbara B. Smith, former General Relief Society President.

“Visiting Teaching is a tool given to us by the Lord. Properly used, it is a great source of inspiration, strength, and comfort. Many a sister's prayers have been miraculously answered by visiting teachers in a time of need. In an urban world that is often filled with loneliness in the midst of a crowd, visiting teachers are essential. They are the Lord's way of keeping His daughters in touch with each other, and I think they are His recognition of the sanctity of each home. What the visiting teaching program needs is for us to have more dedication to those that we are called to visit.”

May we all be blessed with a desire to improve our efforts and increase our love for those whom we visit teach.

Please take the opportunity this month to have your Young Woman age daughters join you in visiting teaching.  We were very blessed to have them with us for the Visiting Teaching Conference and would like to provide them a glimpse of the joy and blessings of visiting teaching.  

May Newsletter Announcements

Please mark your calendars for the Stake Youth Fireside at 5pm on Sunday, May 20th at the Stake Center. All youth 12-18 and their parents and leaders are invited to attend.  (We apologize that this event was left off May's Newsletter calendar.)

Neighborhood Clean-up and Clothing Swap - Saturday, May 12^th 9-11am - Contact Pres. Shannon for more info about the clean-up or Lisa Peterson for more info about the clothing swap.

YW News –

"Reminder to all the YW that we start camp prep activities in June.  Dig out your camp manual and camp necklace and prepare to have fun!"

YM News – April found the scouts at Willow Park for the Spring District Camporee.  This year they celebrated 100 years of Eagle Scouts.  Dustin and Spencer were awarded their Eagle at a special celebration. Congratulations on all your hard work!  The YM also spent time preparing for Scout-O-Rama learning knots and using them to make camp gadgets and participating in more cycling and hiking in preparation for the upcoming 50/30/20/12.  They joined the YW for two activities this month: a stake youth night about the restoration of the gospel and a night of games, including kickball and capture the flag.

Mark your calendar for our Ward Pool Party on Saturday, August 18^th from 8-10pm at the Oquirrh Park Fitness Center Pools.  This will take place instead of the annual ward camp-out.

Congratulations to Tyler Savage on his mission call to the Carlsbad California Mission.

April Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Many of you remember Elder Marvin J. Ashton.  Some may even remember the talk he gave in the April 1975 general conference during the welfare session titled “Guide to Family Finance”.  This talk, given more than a quarter century ago is the basis of the church pamphlet “One for the Money” that is available through church distribution.  Its advice is as good today as it was then, and even more important to heed now.  I wanted to include a quote from Elder Ashton’s quote which is disturbing in that the statistics continue to remain similar to those cited in 1975.

“How important are money management and finances in marriage and family affairs? May I respond, “Tremendously.” The American Bar Association has indicated that 89 percent of all divorces can be traced to quarrels and accusations over money. Others have estimated that 75 percent of all divorces result from clashes over finances. Some professional counselors indicate that four out of five families are strapped with serious money problems.”

Elder Ashton’s talk has been reprinted in more than one Ensign issue in the years since it was first given, which reinforces how important his message is.  With all the resources the church puts out to help families, this one is vital.  I feel so blessed to belong to a church where the importance of the stability of marriage and family is paramount, and this reinforces my testimony of the gospel.  Over the next several months we’ll look at the 12 points that Elder Ashton covers in “One for the Money” so we can take a closer look at this topic that is so important whether you are single, married, or busily raising a family.

April RS Message

Happy Spring and a big welcome to Elsie who just turned 18 and joined the Relief Society!

It is such a beautiful time of year! Lawns are starting to green, trees and flowers are blooming. The world is awaking after winter. We celebrate Easter and think of the Savior and His atonement. We have all been promised the gift of "awaking" - resurrection and the opportunity of Eternal Life - to live as our Heavenly Father lives - if we are worthy. What an amazing gift is the Atonement!

We have been blessed by General Conference with the opportunity to hear the messages of the gospel from our prophet, apostles, and other general leaders. President Julie Beck, who was just released as the General RS President, gave a wonderful talk about Relief Society. She reminded us that Relief Society is to teach, strengthen, and inspire sisters in (our) purpose regarding faith, family, and relief. She quoted from President Joseph F. Smith, who said he expected the sisters "to lead the world and ... especially the women of the world, in everything that is praise-worthy, everything that is God-like, everything that is uplifting and that is purifying to the children of men." She closed her remarks by quoting President Lorenzo Snow: "The future of the (Relief) Society is full of promise. As the church grows, its field of usefulness will be correspondingly enlarged, and it will be even more potent for good than it has been in the past." 

Sisters, we have been given the charge! Let us strengthen ourselves so that we exert our righteous influence in our homes to our families; in our ward to our brothers and sisters; in our neighborhood to those around us; in our workplaces to those we associate with. May we, as individuals, and as a (relief) society of women let our light shine out to the world.

April Newsletter Announcements

YW News – A huge thank you to everyone who supported the youth fundraiser.  The YW enjoyed a nice dinner in March and each girl brought a special guest.  We'll start camp prep activities on June 6th.  Our YW who are in Kearns Color Guard just returned from San Francisco.  Andi was awarded with team MVP at her first track meet.  Kassidie is our newest Mia Maid, and Aspen joins YW in April.  We're so proud of our YW and all of their achievements!

YM News - March was full of excitement and adventure. In preparation for the 50/30/20/12 (50 miles total, 30 mi. biking, 20 mi. hiking, in 12 hours) the scouts walked to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. Afterwards they had their overnight camp for the month at the Jamison home. Thank you to all who came and supported our successful annual YM/YW Chili Cook-Off Camp Fundraiser. During March, the scouts also worked on the Swimming MB at the fitness center. To finish off the month, the youth participated in a service scavenger hunt. They worked hard at ironing, pulling weeds, washing cars, raking leaves, and more for the members of the ward. Thanks to our youth who gave of their time.

March Wise Stewards Finance Tip

119 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God;

As I was thinking about what to write this month a scripture from the 88^th section of the D&C kept coming back to me. I began thinking about the upcoming General Conference we will be enjoying next month, and about the Easter holiday we will celebrate the week after. I also have a touch of spring fever and can’t wait to get outside & enjoy some warmer weather. With all these things running through my head, I realized I have a lot to prepare for this coming month. There are seeds to start, windows to wash, junk drawers to clean out, and donations to organize-all this in addition to my already busy schedule. This is about when the panic should be setting in, right? How can anyone not feel overwhelmed when there seem to be so many demands on our lives? My life is a different kind of busy than anyone else’s, but we all have responsibilities. So how do we keep it all together when the tasks before us seem insurmountable?

Just as the spirit has testified to me so many times before, I’ve again found myself turning to the scriptures and found an answer. Organize. Prepare. Pray, fast, have faith. Give glory to God for the blessings you have, and humble before Him when asking for those things which you have need. Strive to make your home a house of order where the Spirit will remain. I hope we can all start now to organize, prepare, and do whatever we need to do so we’ll be ready for this session of General Conference and the words that our leaders are preparing for us to hear. The blessings we can take away are well worth the effort, and having His spirit with us as we celebrate His death and resurrection can help us to be truly grateful for His ultimate sacrifice.

March RS Message

RS Birthday Dinner – Thurs, March 22, 7pm – Come for cake, conversation and an inspirational speaker. Nursery will be provided.

Relief Society Message

This month we are continuing our discussion of The Relief Society Declaration by studying the topic “Finding nobility in motherhood and joy in womanhood.”

Sister Margaret Nadauld, in an address called the Joy of Womanhood, states “Women of God can never be like women of the world. The world has enough women who are tough; we need women who are tender. There are enough women who are coarse; we need women who are kind. There are enough women who are rude; we need women who are refined. We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of faith. We have enough greed; we need more goodness. We have enough vanity; we need more virtue. We have enough popularity; we need more purity.”

2 Nephi 2:25 - Adam fell that (wo)men might be; and (wo)men are, that they might have joy.

Each time I meet with the sisters of the Church, I sense that I am in the midst of similar remarkable souls . . . I am grateful for who you are: treasured daughters of our Heavenly Father with infinite worth. – President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, October 2008 General Conference

March Newsletter Announcements

The annual Ward Chili Cookoff/Service and Dessert Auction will be held March 17 at 6pm at the Stake Center. This is the only fundraiser the youth will have all year to help pay for upcoming YW and Scout camps. Please support our youth by making your favorite chili or donating a dessert. The youth will be selling different services such as babysitting, lawn care, etc. The cost to attend will be $5/person or $15/family. Please invite friends and family!

YM News - February found the scouts focused on winter camping. They kept warm by participating in the activities including the famous Klondike race and Ice Age Scout Refuge (troop was in charge of this). It got down to 5°F, so each scout got a feel of what it’s like to be a turkey in your freezer! Sunday found the scouts back in action as they went out and shoveled many sidewalks in the neighborhood. Being in the service of our fellow beings is definitely being in the service of our God! Thank you to our scouts for their efforts and the leaders who make it possible for our scouts to advance in scouting.

YW News – The theme for New Beginnings last month was "Arise and Shine Forth that your Happily Ever After May be Bright" based on Pres. Uchtdorf's talk from the April 2010 General YW Meeting. Sister Anderson talked about how Personal Progress helps us live up to our potential as royal daughters of our Heavenly Father. The girls and leaders also performed a cute skit written by Sister Jamison. Thank you to all of the family members that came to support us. We are excited to welcome Megan as our newest MiaMaid and Sister Gerber as our Beehive Advisor.

February RS Message

Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As we celebrate Valentine's Day this month may we commit ourselves to increase our love each day of the year. We would like to share with you:

Twenty Ways to Make a Good Marriage Great

By Richard W. Linford, Ensign, Dec 1983, 64

1. Night and Morning Prayer . . . to say thanks, to ask for help in your marriage and family, to worship together.

2. A Weekly Planning Meeting . . . to discuss the calendar, talk over needs and problems, decide priorities and next steps. (Write decisions in a journal, including goals and discussion topics, and reasons for each.)

3. A Daily Phone Call or Personal Conversation . . . to say . . . I love you, . . . to touch base, to discuss the day, to show you care.

4. A Weekly Date . . . to a favorite park, a concert, the library, the gym; or staying home for a candlelight dinner, a game, or a mutual hobby.

5. Patience Regardless . . . of missed meals, tardiness, forgotten favors, a thoughtless remark, impatience.

6. Daily Service . . . helping with house or yard work, mending a piece of clothing, taking a turn with the sick baby, fixing a favorite meal. (Write it down. Do it!)

7. A Budget . . . to tie down income and expenses, help set financial goals, and give you control over your finances.

8. Listening . . . not only to what is said, but also to what is meant.

9. Regular Attendance . . . at church . . . and where possible . . . the temple.

10. Daily Scripture Reading . . . to learn the gospel, to receive inspiration for yourself and your marriage, to become more like Jesus.

11. Working Together . . . caring for a garden, painting a bedroom, washing the car, scrubbing floors, building a piece of furniture, writing a poem together, team teaching a class.

12. Forgiving Each Other . . . always learning from each other, trying a different way, being the first to make peace.

13. Courtesies . . . like saying please and thank you, not interrupting or belittling, not doing all the talking, continuing the niceties of courtship.

14. Soft and Kind Words . . . of tenderness, compassion, empathy.

15. Learning Together by . . . reading to each other, discussing ideas, taking a class.

16. Respecting . . . opinions, ideas, privacy.

17. Supporting Your Spouse’s . . . Church callings and righteous goals.

18. Caring for Your Spouse’s Family by . . . enjoying their company, praying for them, serving them, overlooking differences.

19. Occasional Gifts . . . such as a note, a needed item . . . but mostly gifts of time and self.

20. Loving with All Your Heart. “Thou shalt love thy wife [thy husband] with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her [him] and none else.” (D&C 42:22.)

February Wise Stewards Finance Tip

February has come and the Christmas decorations are packed away (hopefully). You might still be keeping some of your New Year’s resolutions, and you may already be eyeing a certain box of chocolate for that special someone, but do you have your taxes done? Taxes aren’t due until April 17^th, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get them done early. If you do your taxes yourself there are some great ways to save time and money. Before you go out and buy an at home tax program for your computer, check out the IRS website. Go to www.irs.gov and click on the “Free File” icon. If you made under $57,000 last year you can use software programs by some of the same companies that sell them in the store, for free. E-filing is free for anyone regardless of how much you made, and you can find online tax forms at the IRS website as well.

Now that I’ve put a bug in your ear about taxes, let’s get down to the really important stuff. Have you picked out a Valentine’s present yet? How about a plan to get out of debt?! It may not be easy to gift wrap, but it could have a more positive effect on a relationship than a stuffed toy or some perfume. Whether you’re married or single, having a solid financial plan is beneficial to anyone. Being in good financial standing when you’re single is tough, but doable. Staying in good financial standing after you’re married should be just as important a goal. In Elder Marvin J. Ashton’s Guide to Family Finances, Elder Ashton quotes, “The American Bar Association has indicated that 89 percent of all divorces can be traced to quarrels and accusations over money. Others have estimated that 75 percent of all divorces result from clashes over finances.” Having good communication and positive goals is essential to a good marriage, but this is especially true regarding your family finances. So if you are married and a financial plan isn’t a romantic enough Valentine’s present for you to give, go ahead & wrap it up with some candy hearts. I bet they’ll both be appreciated.

February Newsletter Announcements

Mark your calendars for Stake Conference, February 4^th & 5^th. Special meeting on Sunday morning for youth at 8am. Make sure to come early Sunday morning for the choir prelude at 9:30am. It will be a spiritual treat!

YW News – New Beginnings will be Wed, February 1st in the Relief Society room. Young Women (and girls who turn 12 this year) and their parents are encouraged to attend. Sunday dress requested.

Valentine Adult Dinner – Saturday, Feb. 18^th at 6:00pm. Nursery will be provided by the youth.

Choir practice will be Sunday mornings, 11am at Sister Beck’s home starting Feb 19^th.

January Relief Society Message

Happy New Year!

We are excited to spend some time discussing The Relief Society Declaration this year. We will be discussing different aspects of it each month in the first Sunday lessons. Last Sunday Sister Hunsaker started us off by teaching about seeking spiritual strength by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost. In February, the topic will be "Finding nobility in motherhood and joy in womanhood". We hope that we will all be strengthened as we learn together.

The Relief Society Declaration

We are beloved spirit daughters of God, and our lives have meaning, purpose, and direction. As a worldwide sisterhood, we are united in our devotion to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Exemplar. We are women of faith, virtue, vision, and charity who:

v Increase our testimonies of Jesus Christ through prayer and scripture study.

v Seek spiritual strength by following the promptings of the Holy Ghost.

v Dedicate ourselves to strengthening marriages, families, and homes.

v Find nobility in motherhood and joy in womanhood.

v Delight in service and good works.

v Love life and learning.

v Stand for truth and righteousness.

v Sustain the priesthood as the authority of God on earth.

v Rejoice in the blessings of the temple, understand our divine destiny, and strive for exaltation.

January Finance Tip

Wise Stewards Finance Tip

In his April 2004 Conference talk entitled Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin outlines five key steps to financial freedom. This month we’ll look at:

· First, pay your tithing.

· Second, spend less than you earn.

· Third, learn to save.

· Fourth, honor your financial obligations.

· Fifth, teach your children to follow your example.

It’s a new year! What a great time to get a new start! As you work on your resolutions for this year, don’t leave the kids out. Share your goals with the family. You’ll be more likely to achieve them if someone else is watching. Better yet, make family goals this year. Make it a goal to save up for something fun or important and let each family member do their part to help. Little ones can save their pennies too and feel like they’ve done something very important.

Discuss tithing in family home evening and share your progress with each other every week. This is a perfect opportunity to share your testimony of the importance of tithing and the blessings received from Heavenly Father from paying it. Your example is the most important thing you can show your kids to help them develop healthy habits. This can include healthy eating and exercise, scripture reading and prayer, and yes - money habits. Being open and honest about the rewards and consequences of your money habits and developing good habits will bless your children’s lives for years to come. If you don’t have children or they’ve grown and gone, you can share goals with others around you. We can all benefit from a good example and we can all use encouragement from each other.