Hi Everyone

I hope this finds you well.

Change is sometimes hard. Nothing throws me off quite like a sudden change in my routine, whether it be welcome or unexpected. President Thomas S. Monson (1927–2018) once said: “At one time or another, we’ve all heard some form of the familiar adage: ‘Nothing is as constant as change.’ “Throughout our lives, we must deal with change. Some changes are welcome; some are not.” There are some things we can do to help us find stability, comfort, and security through it all:

1.     Take One Step at a Time: Heavenly Father can help us adapt to newness, even if adapting is simply taking small steps forward to embrace change. We don’t have to put pressure on ourselves to figure everything out at once. Instead, we can take things one step at a time! After all, “by small and simple things are great things brought to pass” (Alma 37:6). Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you get used to your new normal.

2.     Be Optimistic: Knowing that Heavenly Father has my best interests at heart helps me remember that whatever happens, things are going to be OK. We have every reason to be optimistic about the future. Even if things aren’t going the way we expected, joy is always in reach because of Jesus Christ.

3.     Focus on Your Covenants: I know that God keeps His promises to me and reassures me that I have His power in my life to face everything that comes my way. Yes, shifts in our lives can sweep us off our feet, but remaining faithful to our covenants can help us find the traction we are searching for. Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles testified that we can have a special kind of reassurance through what he calls “covenant confidence.” He said, “This confidence is the quiet yet certain assurance of receiving the blessings that God promises for those who keep their covenants and is so needed amid the challenging circumstances of our day.”

As I approach the five year anniversary of being sustained as a Bishop I have witnessed many changes from good to tragic. I love you and know our Heavenly Father is intimately involved in our lives. Jesus Christ lives and through his atonement we can find peace, joy, and redemption. 

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “The order of the Son of God." At first glance, Doctrine and Covenants 107 seems to be only about organizing priesthood offices into a leadership structure for the Lord’s Church. By the time this revelation was published, Church membership was outgrowing the capacity of the few leaders it had in place. Outlining the roles and responsibilities of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Seventy, bishops, and quorum presidencies was definitely needed and helpful. But there’s so much more to the divine instruction in section 107 than just how Church leadership should be organized. Here, the Lord teaches us about His power and authority, “the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God” (verse 3). The purpose of the priesthood is to unlock “all the spiritual blessings of the church” so that all of God’s children can “have the heavens opened unto them” and “enjoy the communion and presence of God the Father, and Jesus the mediator of the new covenant” (verses 18–19). In teaching us about His priesthood, the Savior is teaching us about Himself and how we can come unto Him.

The video of the week focuses on the blessings of the priesthood. The priesthood is the power of God, which is given to man to act in His name.

This weekend is Stake Conference. Please see the flyer. There is a leadership meeting Saturday, 4:00-6:00 pm, Adult Session 7:00-9:00 pm. Sunday, the general session will be at 10:00 am at the Logan Tabernacle or broadcast to the Mendon Stake Center. We have a visiting authority Elder Larreal, who represents the Prophet and Jesus Christ.

The September Ward Theme is "Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Being Prepared." Elder Perry said, “The Savior made it clear that we cannot place sufficient oil in our preparedness lamps by simply avoiding evil. We must also be anxiously engaged in a positive program of preparation.” As we fill this plan out as a family, we will have sufficient “oil” in a time of need. Here are the goals for the month. 

1. As a family, study the ward emergency preparedness plan

2. Every family fills out the family emergency preparedness plan

3. Prayerfully pick one topic on the plan to share with your ministering families  

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference. 

September 26 - Adult Baptisms for the Dead at 6:00 pm. Go to the following link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference. Please see the flyer for times. Look for an announcement about the SC1 Ward. 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Oct 25th - Priesthood Leadership Meeting

October 26, 2025, Broadcast for Youth: President Jeffrey R. Holland, President Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women General President, and President Timothy L. Farnes, Young Men General President, will share messages inspired by the youth theme “Look unto Christ.”

November 9th: Primary Program

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo, Marianne Fredrickson, Brent Fredrickson

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope all is well with you.

In Doctrine and Covenants 103, we get an answer to why the people in Independence were subjected to injustices.  The persecutors of the Church of Jesus Christ tried to destroy the church. A couple of things that I was thinking about with this were; was the church ever destroyed by its enemies? No, it's not. In fact, it continues to grow and prosper despite its enemies, and it continues to grow and prosper today. And then, after this revelation is given, in February of 1834, the church finishes and dedicates the Kirtland temple. In 1836, they built the Nauvoo temple, and beginning in 1845, they began to offer the endowments in the Nauvoo temple. Eventually, here in Utah, they built the St. George, Salt Lake, Manti, and Logan temples, and the work continues to proceed. Think of the words of Joseph Smith, that the work of the Lord rolls forth boldly, nobly, and independent. I think the Lord is saying that the saints will prevail against their enemies, he's not saying that the church or its members would not have any setbacks in their lives, but that the church would continue to grow, would continue to fill its mission of preaching the gospel to those who are living, and redeeming those who have passed on.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “After much tribulation…cometh the blessing." The Saints in Kirtland were heartbroken to hear that their brothers and sisters in Jackson County, Missouri, were being driven from their homes. It must have been encouraging, then, when the Lord declared that “the redemption of Zion” would “come by power” (Doctrine and Covenants 103:15). With that promise in their hearts, over 200 men and about 25 women and children enlisted in what they called the Camp of Israel, later known as Zion’s Camp. Its mission was to march to Missouri and redeem Zion. To the members of the camp, redeeming Zion meant restoring the Saints to their land. But just before they arrived in Jackson County, the Lord told Joseph Smith to disband Zion’s Camp. Some members of the camp were confused and upset; it seemed the expedition had failed, and the Lord’s promises were not fulfilled. Others, however, saw it differently. While the exiled Saints did not get their lands and homes back, the experience did bring a degree of “redemption” to Zion, and it did “come by power.” Faithful members of Zion’s Camp, many of whom later became leaders of the Church, testified that the experience deepened their faith in God’s power, in Joseph Smith’s divine call, and in Zion—not just Zion the place but Zion the people of God. Rather than questioning the value of this seemingly unsuccessful task, they learned that the real task is to follow the Savior, even when we don’t understand everything. This is how Zion, ultimately, will be redeemed.

The video of the week teaches us about finding meaning in trials. The Lord delivers us from our trials, but more often He delivers us in our trials. During times of uncertainty, often God’s answer is comfort and peace, giving us the strength to face whatever comes our way.

This week’s Sacrament meeting will focus on our Constitution. High Councilmen will speak about this inspired document, as September is designated as Constitution month. President Oaks has said “The United States Constitution is unique because God revealed that He “established” it “for the rights and protection of all flesh” (Doctrine and Covenants 101:77; see also verse 80). That is why this constitution is of special concern for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the world. Whether or how its principles should be applied in other nations of the world is for them to decide.

The September Ward Theme is Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Being Prepared. Elder Perry said, “The Savior made it clear that we cannot place sufficient oil in our preparedness lamps by simply avoiding evil. We must also be anxiously engaged in a positive program of preparation.” As we fill this plan out as a family, we will have sufficient “oil” in a time of need. Here are the goals for the month. 

1. As a family, study the ward emergency preparedness plan

2. Every family fills out the family emergency preparedness plan

3. Prayerfully pick one topic on the plan to share with your ministering families  

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

Sept 24th: Ward Temple Night, 7:00 pm session or any other session on that day to prepare for Stake Conference. You need to make your own appointment.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

September 26 - Adult Baptisms for the Dead at 6:00 pm. Go to the following link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Oct 25th - Priesthood Leadership Meeting

October 26, 2025, Broadcast for Youth: President Jeffrey R. Holland, President Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women General President, and President Timothy L. Farnes, Young Men General President, will share messages inspired by the youth theme “Look unto Christ.”

November 9th: Primary Program

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo, Marianne Fredrickson

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope you are well!

It was so great to celebrate President Nelson's birthday this week. It was great to see his op-ed in Time Magazine. President Nelson shared what he described as his birthday wish for the world, as he shared two truths that contribute to happiness and peace. His message reminded worldwide readers that 1) each of us has divine worth and dignity, and 2) we should love our neighbor and treat them with compassion and respect. We are truly blessed to have a prophet who leads and guides us.

These past few weeks, we have seen many tragedies play out across Utah. These events can greatly affect us. My heart has ached watching the tragedies and the effects on individuals and families. Remember in the Book of Mormon, Mormon and Moroni had seen many tragedies and experienced so much tribulation in their lifetimes. It was heartbreaking for them. Moroni 9:5 and 6 may may apply to has happened lately.

5 For so exceedingly do they anger that it seemeth me that they have no fear of death; and they have lost their love, one towards another; and they thirst after blood and revenge continually.

6 And now, my beloved son, notwithstanding their hardness, let us labor diligently; for if we should cease to labor, we should be brought under condemnation; for we have a labor to perform whilst in this tabernacle of clay, that we may conquer the enemy of all righteousness, and rest our souls in the kingdom of God.

Mormon shows us the despondency and the horror in this chapter. In verse 18 he writes:    

18 O the depravity of my people! They are without order and without mercy. Behold, I am but a man, and I have but the strength of a man, and I cannot any longer enforce my commands.

Mormon lays out the injustices, evil, and tragedies (murder, brutalit, rape, etc.) of his people that apply to us in many ways now. He ends with hope that I build my testimony upon in verses 25 and 26. This is where peace is found within ourselves and can solve societal problems. Many times, we want to lash out, find revenge, demand justice, etc. Real peace lies in Mormon’s teachings:

25 My son, be faithful in Christ; and may not the things which I have written grieve thee, to weigh thee down unto death; but may Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death, and the showing his body unto our fathers, and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever.

26 And may the grace of God the Father, whose throne is high in the heavens, and our Lord Jesus Christ, who sitteth on the right hand of his power, until all things shall become subject unto him, be, and abide with you forever. Amen.

I have loved reading Doctrine and Covenants 101: 32-39 this week, where we are taught that the Lord will tell us “all things” in the end. We will understand perfectly! The Early Saints experienced so many tribulations and tragedies that it can break your heart dwelling upon them. I hope we all can focus on Christ and find peace. I follow “The Jesus Way.”

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Be Still and Know I am God." For the Saints in the 1830s, Independence, Missouri, was literally the promised land. It was “the center place” of Zion (Doctrine and Covenants 57:3)—the city of God on earth—and the gathering of Saints there was an exciting prelude to the Second Coming. But their neighbors in the area saw things differently. They objected to the claim that God had given the land to the Saints, and they were uncomfortable with the political, economic, and social consequences of so many unfamiliar people moving in so quickly. Discomfort soon turned into persecution and violence. In 1833, the Church’s printing office was destroyed, and the Saints were forced from their homes.

Joseph Smith was more than 800 miles away in Kirtland, and this news took weeks to reach him. But the Lord knew what was happening, and He revealed to His Prophet principles of peace and encouragement that would comfort the Saints—principles that can also help us when we face persecution, when our righteous desires go unfulfilled, or when we need a reminder that our daily afflictions will eventually, somehow, “work together for [our] good” (Doctrine and Covenants 98:3).

The video of the week teaches us about the refiner's fire. The refiner’s fire is not a comfortable place to be. It involves intense heat and repeated hammering. But it is in the refiner’s fire that we are purified and prepared to meet God.

This week’s Sacrament meeting will focus on our September goal of Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Being Prepared. Here are a couple of talks to focus on:  A time of Urgency, Elder Marvin J Ashton, Elder Oaks Preparation for the Second Coming

The September Ward Theme is Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Being Prepared. Elder Perry said, “The Savior made it clear that we cannot place sufficient oil in our preparedness lamps by simply avoiding evil. We must also be anxiously engaged in a positive program of preparation.” As we fill this plan out as a family, we will have sufficient “oil” in a time of need. Here are the goals for the month. 

1. As a family, study the ward emergency preparedness plan

2. Every family fills out the family emergency preparedness plan

3. Prayerfully pick one topic on the plan to share with your ministering families 

Upcoming Institute classes: Thursday, Sept 18th. A 10 am class in Mendon at the Mendon Square building (Old Testament and "The New Covenant") and two evening classes that same day, starting at 7 pm, one in the Mendon square building (Teachings of the Living Prophets) and one in the CW/YW building (6:00 pm)(Old Testament and "The New Covenant").

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

Sept 18th: Institute classes begin. CW building 6:00 pm

Sept 24th: Ward Temple Night, 7:00 pm session or any other session on that day to prepare for Stake Conference. You need to make your own appointment.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

September 26 - Adult Baptisms for the Dead at 6:00 pm. Go to the following link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Oct 25th - Priesthood Leadership Meeting

October 26, 2025, Broadcast for Youth: President Jeffrey R. Holland, President Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women General President, and President Timothy L. Farnes, Young Men General President, will share messages inspired by the youth theme “Look unto Christ.”

November 9th: Primary Program

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo, Marianne Fredrickson

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hello Everyone

I hope you are well

Many people around the world ask "Why do we build temples?" Doctrine and Covenants 95 and 97 this week has provided great insights into this simple question. Doctrine and Covenants 97: 16 states "Yea, and my presence shall be there, for I will come into it, and all the pure in heart that shall come into it shall see God." President Nelson has given us promises that temples bring to us. He has said, "I renew my invitation for you to increase your understanding of priesthood power and temple covenants and blessings. I invite you to worship in the temple and pray to feel deeply the Savior's infinite love for you." By the way, President Nelson is consistently promising. Have you noticed that? I promise. I promise. I promise. Notice these promises from the living prophet about our temple worship. "I promise you that the Lord will bring miracles in the temple. I promise that as you increase your time in the temple, you will increase and improve your ability to hear him. I promise you that over time, the temple will become a place of safety, solace, and revelation. I promise that increased time in the temple will bless your life in ways nothing else can. Here is my promise. Nothing will help you more to hold fast to the iron rod than worshiping in the temple as regularly as your circumstances permit. We are also promised that in the temple we will receive a fullness of the Spirit. Here is my promise to you. Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find him in the temple. I promise that over time, the temple will become a place of safety, solace, and revelation." If that does not light your fire and motivate you and me and all of us to center our lives on the Savior and our worship of him in the temple, I'm not sure what else will.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “For the Salvation of Zion." “Anciently, the Lord commanded Moses to build a tabernacle “according to the pattern shewed to [him] in the mount” (Hebrews 8:5; see also Exodus 25:8–9). The tabernacle was to be the center of Israel’s wilderness camp (see Numbers 2:1–2). In 1833, the Lord commanded Joseph Smith to build temples “not after the manner of the world” but rather “after the manner which I shall show” (Doctrine and Covenants 95:13–14; see also 97:10). Like the tabernacle in the wilderness, the temple was meant to be a central feature in Kirtland (see Doctrine and Covenants 94:1).

Today, temples are found around the world. Even if they aren’t at the center of our cities, they point us to Christ, who should be the center of our lives. Though each temple differs in appearance, within them we learn the same divine pattern—a heavenly plan to bring us back into the presence of God. Sacred ordinances and covenants connect us to Christ and strengthen our families “not after the manner of the world” but after the pattern God shows us.

The video of the week teaches us about God Loves Us. Learn how God loves you and all His children! Find this activity and more fun ideas in the Friend magazine.

This week’s Sacrament meeting will be Fast and Testimony meeting. Partaking of the sacrament and strengthening one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel is the purpose of the Testimony meeting. A testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so that many people can participate. 

The September Ward Theme is Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Being Prepared. Elder Perry said, “The Savior made it clear that we cannot place sufficient oil in our preparedness lamps by simply avoiding evil. We must also be anxiously engaged in a positive program of preparation.” As we fill this plan out as a family we will have sufficient “oil” in a time of need. Here are the goals for the month. 

             1.    Attend the emergency preparedness class on Sunday, 8/31 (second hour) and booths on                      September 9 @ 7 PM:

2. As a family, study the ward emergency preparedness plan

3. Every family fills out the family emergency preparedness plan

4. Prayerfully pick one topic on the plan to share with your ministering families 

. Upcoming Institute classes: Thursday, Sept 18th. A 10 am class in Mendon at the Mendon Square building (Old Testament and "The New Covenant") and two evening classes that same day, starting at 7 pm, one in the Mendon square building (Teachings of the Living Prophets) and one in the CW/YW building (6:00 pm)(Old Testament and "The New Covenant").

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go to the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

September 6, 2025, The next Friend to Friend broadcast, “Sharing Jesus’s Love Through Service,” will be available to download from the Gospel Library a few days prior to the suggested viewing date. The broadcast features messages from Elder Patrick Kearon and the Primary General Presidency

Sept 5-6 Young Married Adults Activity: Campout @ Early Park

Sept 9th: 7:00 pm, Learn CPR/Home Emergency basics, Emotional Health. There will be a drawing for emergency supplies and refreshments.

Sept 18th: Institute classes begin. CW building 6:00 pm

Sept 24th: Ward Temple Night, 7:00 pm session or any other session on that day to prepare for Stake Conference. You need to make your own appointment.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

September 26 - Adult Baptisms for the Dead at 6:00 pm. Go to the following link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

October 26, 2025, Broadcast for Youth: President Jeffrey R. Holland, President Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women General President, and President Timothy L. Farnes, Young Men General President, will share messages inspired by the youth theme “Look unto Christ.”

November 9th: Primary Program

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone.

I have loved Doctrine and Covenants 88 and Doctrine and Covenants 93, teaching us the doctrine about light. Light is a fascinating topic and affects every aspect of our lives. Joseph Smith said “We consider that God has created man, and we would add women, with a mind capable of instruction and a faculty which may be enlarged in proportion to the heed and diligence given to the light communicated from heaven to the intellect and that the nearer man approaches perfection the clearer are his views and the greater his enjoyments till he has overcome the evils of his life and lost every desire for sin. And like the ancients arrives at a point of faith where he is wrapped in the power and glory of his maker and is caught up to dwell with him.

CS Lewis said, “That if you turn on the lights suddenly in a dark room, you might discover rats in your cellar. I'm paraphrasing. He says the light doesn't produce the rats, but the suddenness of its coming on shows what's really there, a type of thing.

We don't accrue all this light so that we can be bright. We accrue all this light because it helps us to live better lives and to be better people. I've had this little insight that one of the best ways to know who somebody really is by seeing how they behave in an unexpected moment. We're all pretty good when we're sitting in church, but when you're out there and hard things happen to you, somebody turns around and hits you with a two-by-four in the head or something, or somebody cuts you off in traffic, you know your true character reveals itself.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Receive of His Fullness." “When you climb up a ladder,” Joseph Smith taught, “you must begin at the bottom, and ascend step by step, until you arrive at the top; and so it is with the principles of the gospel—you must begin with the first, and go on until you learn all the principles of exaltation” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 268). Sometimes that ladder of exaltation seems impossibly high, but we were born to climb to the top with the Savior’s constant help. Whatever limitations we may see in ourselves, Heavenly Father and His Son see something glorious in us, something godlike. Just as Jesus Christ “was in the beginning with the Father,” so “ye were also” (Doctrine and Covenants 93:21, 23). Just as He “continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness,” so also “you shall receive grace for grace” (verses 13, 20). The restored gospel teaches about the true nature of God, and so it also teaches about your true nature and destiny. You are a literal child of God with the potential to “in due time receive of his fulness” (verse 19).

The video of the week teaches us about Light and truth.

This week’s Sacrament meeting will introduce September’s theme of Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Preparation. Spiritual Preparation is very important. Here are a couple of articles to consider: Spiritual Preparedness: Start Early and Be Steady. President Nelson: Embrace the future with Faith

The September Ward Theme is Showing Forth Greater Love to the Savior by Being Prepared. Elder Perry said, “The Savior made it clear that we cannot place sufficient oil in our preparedness lamps by simply avoiding evil. We must also be anxiously engaged in a positive program of preparation.” As we fill this plan out as a family we will have sufficient “oil” in a time of need. Here are the goals for the month. 

1.    Attend the emergency preparedness class on Sunday, 8/31 (second hour) and booths on September 9 @ 7 PM:

2. As a family, study the ward emergency preparedness plan

3. Every family fills out the family emergency preparedness plan

4. Prayerfully pick one topic on the plan to share with your ministering families 

Upcoming Institute classes: Thursday, Sept 18th. A 10 am class in Mendon at the Mendon Square building (Old Testament and "The New Covenant") and two evening classes that same day, starting at 7 pm, one in the Mendon square building (Teachings of the Living Prophets) and one in the CW/YW building (6:00 pm)(Old Testament and "The New Covenant").

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go to the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

August 21st and 23, 29: Spring Creek 1st Ward Temple Sealings and Baptisms for the Dead

September 6, 2025, The next Friend to Friend broadcast, “Sharing Jesus’s Love Through Service,” will be available to download from the Gospel Library a few days prior to the suggested viewing date. The broadcast features messages from Elder Patrick Kearon and the Primary General Presidency

Sept 5-6 Young Married Adults Activity: Campout @ Early Park

Sept 9th: 7:00pm, Learn CPR/Home Emergency basics, Emotional Health. There will be a drawing for emergency supplies and refreshments.

Sept 18th: Institute classes begin. CW building 6:00 pm

Sept 24th: Ward Temple Night, 7:00 pm session or any other session on that day to prepare for Stake Conference. You need to

make your own appointment.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

September 26 - Adult Baptisms for the Dead at 6:00 pm.

Go to the following link to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-

zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

HI Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

Doctrine and Covenants 89 is a pure blessing to Latter-day Saints. Joseph Smith in January of 1841 said, "We came to this earth that we might have a body and present it pure before God in the celestial kingdom." President Russell M. Nelson said, "Your physical body is a magnificent creation of God. It's his temple as well as yours and must be treated with reverence."

Dr. Anthony Sweat Has said, "The issue on Joseph Smith's mind in the winter of 1833 was not, how can I make people more healthy? But instead, how can I make people more holy? The word of wisdom came for the elders in the school of the prophets who were seeking to become sanctified to see the face of God. When we make the word of wisdom only about health benefits, we can get confused when hundreds of scientific studies show certain health benefits of tea, coffee, or alcohol consumption. If the word of wisdom were only about health, it would say something like, thou shalt refrain from refined sugars or thou shalt plank. Surely the Lord offers health blessings for living the word of wisdom, but its purposes are to prepare members for the endowment, to be in the presence of God, and to reveal his hidden mysteries. Its purpose is to create conditions that help bring about self-restraint, discipline, and clarity of mind. Its purpose is to help mark you as modern Israel, as Verse 21 suggests that tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcohol are ubiquitous in any society. When you refrain from those things, it sets you apart as a peculiar person. So if someone says, Why don't you drink tea or coffee? Don't say because it's a sin or it's unhealthy. Say something like, because we believe God has told us to refrain from some common consumptions. In doing so, it shows dedication to God and developed self-control, for which we believe he will bless us."

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “A Principle with a Promise." In the School of the Prophets, the Prophet Joseph Smith taught the elders of Israel about building God’s kingdom on earth. They discussed spiritual truths, prayed together, fasted, and prepared to preach the gospel. But there was something about the atmosphere that might seem odd to us today, and it didn’t seem right to Emma Smith either. During the meetings, the men smoked and chewed tobacco, which wasn’t unusual for the time, but it stained the wood floors black and left a strong odor in the air. Emma shared her concerns with Joseph, and Joseph asked the Lord. His response was a revelation that went far beyond smoke and tobacco stains. It gave the Saints, for generations to come, “a principle with promise”—promises of physical health, “wisdom,” and “great treasures of knowledge” (Doctrine and Covenants 89:3, 19).

The video of the week focuses on the blessings of following the Word of Wisdom. President Monson testifies of the blessings that come as we obey the Word of Wisdom.

This week’s Sacrament meeting, our Stake Leaders will focus on Showing Forth Greater love to our Savior. Brother Geary and Brother Shroeder will speak. 

Showing Forth Greater Love: The August theme is Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering to our neighbors. 

      1.      Get to know your neighbors better

          a.      Invite them to dinner, a game night, or an FHE

          b.      If you missed your ministering goal last month, this might be another good place to start

          c.      Go on a walk with them and get to know them better

          d.      Meet at the church for a playdate

     2.      Serve Your Neighbor/Extend Love like the Savior

          a.      Cookie/Service “Pay It Forward”.  Prayerfully consider a family in the ward you could take                         a plate of cookies to or perform service for.  Utilize the “You Have Been Loved” flyer and                           encourage them to pay it forward within 2-3 days.  Look for the flyers posted on ward                               members' doors and see how many families can be blessed by ward members' service and                     love this month.

          b.      We have a large agricultural presence in our ward.  Attend the fair, support youth, ask                               them about their projects, and donate/boost if possible.

          c.      Mow a lawn, watch kids, help with irrigation – any Christlike deed of kindness

          d.      Let go of a grudge, forgive an enemy, extend an olive branch of forgiveness

          e.      Assist the elderly or widowed

          f.        Welcome someone at church, let them know it’s good to see them.

   3.      Pray For Ways You Can Serve Your Neighbor

         a.      Pray for families who have kids going back to school, that it can be a smooth transition for                        kids and parents alike

         b.      Dads – offer to give Father’s blessings to your children or reach out to your ministers to                            assist you.

Upcoming Institute classes: Thursday Sept 18th. A 10 am class in Mendon at the Mendon Square building (Old Testament and "The New Covenant") and two evening classes that same day starting at 7 pm, one in the Mendon square building (Teachings of the Living Prophets) and one in the CW/YW building (Old Testament and "The New Covenant").

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go  the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

August 21st and 23, 29: Spring Creek 1st Ward Temple Sealings and Baptisms for the Dead

September 6, 2025, The next Friend to Friend broadcast, “Sharing Jesus’s Love Through Service,” will be available to download from the Gospel Library a few days prior to the suggested viewing date. The broadcast features messages from Elder Patrick Kearon and the Primary General Presidency

Sept 5-6 Young Married Adults Activity: Campout @ Early Park

Sept 18th: Institute classes begin. 

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo, Molly Olsen

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

In Doctrine and Covenants 88: 7-13 we are promised that the light of Christ will push away the darkness. We just have to know where to look for it. We have to know how to find it.  He's saying He is in everything. If we just choose, each morning, to look for the light, we will see it, we will find it, we will move towards it, but it has to be a choice. It has to be intentional because if we choose not to look for it and if we're constantly thinking in our minds about those negative things, those judgments against others, and the sadness that's going on in our lives, we're going to find the darkness. We're going to find it. Elder Uchtdorf said, "darkness will not gain victory over the light of Christ." So, if we're feeling spiritual darkness, he also said, "darkness is not an indication that there is no light." He was talking about what pilots call the terminator. If you're high enough, you can see a line on the sphere of the earth, where the line is, where there's light. That's why I love that he said that night is nothing more than a shadow. It's not that the light is gone, you're just not in a place to receive it, which is a very hopeful thought that the light is there, the light is always there.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Establish a House of Order." Every so often, the Lord gives us a glimpse of His boundless “majesty and power” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:47) through stunning revelations. Doctrine and Covenants 88 is that kind of revelation—one about light and glory and kingdoms that can make our earthly cares seem small by comparison. Even if we can’t comprehend it all, we can at least sense that there’s far more to eternity than we ever realized. Of course, the Lord doesn’t share these grand truths to intimidate us or make us feel small. In fact, He promised, “The day shall come when you shall comprehend even God” (verse 49; emphasis added). Perhaps it was to that glorious end that the Lord commanded His Saints in Kirtland to form the School of the Prophets. “Organize yourselves,” He said. “Prepare every needful thing; and establish … a house of God” (verse 119). More than anywhere else, it is within God’s holy house—and in our homes—that He can lift our vision beyond the mortal world, “unveil his face unto [us],” and prepare us to “abide a celestial glory” (verses 68, 22).

The video of the week focuses on “Drawing Near to Me.” President Eyring states, “The Savior’s invitation includes the way to feel that assurance. Draw near Him by always remembering Him. Seek Him diligently through scripture study. Ask through heartfelt prayer to Heavenly Father to feel closer to His Beloved Son.”

This week’s Sacrament meeting focuses on our August theme of "Showing forth greater love to our Savior by ministering to our Neighbors." Here are two articles to ponder: “The Royal Law of Love” and “The Love of God.”

Showing Forth Greater Love: The August theme is Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering to our neighbors. 

      1.      Get to know your neighbors better

a.      Invite them to dinner, a game night, or an FHE

b.      If you missed your ministering goal last month, this might be another good place to start

c.      Go on a walk with them and get to know them better

d.      Meet at the church for a playdate

     2.      Serve Your Neighbor/Extend Love like the Savior

a.      Cookie/Service “Pay It Forward”.  Prayerfully consider a family in the ward you could take a plate of cookies to or perform service for.  Utilize the “You Have Been Loved” flyer and encourage them to pay it forward within 2-3 days.  Look for the flyers posted on ward members' doors and see how many families can be blessed by ward members' service and love this month.

b.      We have a large agricultural presence in our ward.  Attend the fair, support youth, ask them about their projects, and donate/boost if possible.

c.      Mow a lawn, watch kids, help with irrigation – any Christlike deed of kindness

d.      Let go of a grudge, forgive an enemy, extend an olive branch of forgiveness

e.      Assist the elderly or widowed

f.        Welcome someone at church, let them know it’s good to see them.

   3.      Pray For Ways You Can Serve Your Neighbor

a.      Pray for families who have kids going back to school, that it can be a smooth transition for kids and parents alike

b.      Dads – offer to give Father’s blessings to your children or reach out to your ministers to assist you

During the second hour of our meetings (8/17/2025), individuals will be in the Multiple room to help with any technology questions (Family Search, tithing online, reimbursement, electronic temple recommends, gospel tools). Stop by and get your questions answered.

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go  the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities 

August 17th Sunday: Need help with any church technology? Get help 2nd hour in the multipurpose room

August 21st and 23rd: Spring Creek 1st Ward Temple Sealings and Baptisms for the Dead

September 6, 2025, The next Friend to Friend broadcast, “Sharing Jesus’s Love Through Service,” will be available to download from the Gospel Library a few days prior to the suggested viewing date. The broadcast features messages from Elder Patrick Kearon and the Primary General Presidency

Sept 5-6 Young Married Adults Activity: Campout @ Early Park

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo, Molly Olsen

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. 

Doctrine and Covenants 87:8 encourages us to stand in holy places. There are many holy places I have stood in this Summer. The temple, an Abbey in Ireland, and the top of Glacier National Park (to name a couple) have all testified to the reality of our Heavenly Father and His love for us. A holy place is where we feel safe, secure, loved, and comforted. That’s how it was in our heavenly home. Standing in holy places and being in good company bring feelings of how it must have been in that home we left behind, the home that seems so far away at times. Sister Sharon Larsen has stated, “Standing in holy places is all about being in good company, whether you are alone or with others. It’s being where the Holy Ghost is our companion—alone or in a crowd. When we determine within ourselves that we will control our thoughts and our actions and be the best we can possibly be, the best of life will come to us." 

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Stand ye in Holy Places." Christmas Day is usually a time to ponder messages like “peace on earth” (see Luke 2:14). But on December 25, 1832, Joseph Smith’s mind was occupied with the threat of war. The state of South Carolina in the United States had just defied the government and was preparing for battle. And the Lord revealed that this was only the beginning: “War,” He declared, “will be poured out upon all nations” (Doctrine and Covenants 87:2). It seemed like this prophecy would be fulfilled very soon. But then it wasn’t. Within a few weeks, South Carolina and the United States government reached a compromise, and war was averted. Prophecy, however, is not always fulfilled at the time or in the way we expect. Nearly 30 years later, long after Joseph Smith was martyred, South Carolina rebelled and civil war followed. Today, war throughout the world continues to cause “the earth [to] mourn” (Doctrine and Covenants 87:6). The value of this revelation is less in predicting when calamity will come and more in teaching what to do when it comes. The counsel is the same in 1831, 1861, and 2025: “Stand ye in holy places, and be not moved” (verse 8).

The video of the week teaches us about the Holy Ghost. Elder Quentin L. Cook shares insights about Doctrine and Covenants 85:6

This week’s Sacrament meeting focuses on our August theme of "Showing forth greater love to our Savior by ministering to our Neighbors." Here are two articles to ponder: Elder Stevenson, “Bridging the Two Commandments,” and Elder Oakes, “Love your enemies.”

During the second hour of our meetings (8/17/2025), individuals will be in the Multiple room to help with any technology questions (Family Search, Tithing online, reimbursement, electronic temple recommends, gospel tools). Stop by and get your questions answered.

Showing Forth Greater Love: The August theme is Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering to our neighbors. 

      1.      Get to know your neighbors better

a.      Invite them to dinner, a game night, or an FHE

b.      If you missed your ministering goal last month, this might be another good place to start

c.      Go on a walk with them and get to know them better

d.      Meet at the church for a playdate

     2.      Serve Your Neighbor/Extend Love like the Savior

a.      Cookie/Service “Pay It Forward”.  Prayerfully consider a family in the ward you could take a plate of cookies to or perform service for.  Utilize the “You Have Been Loved” flyer and encourage them to pay it forward within 2-3 days.  Look for the flyers posted on ward members' doors and see how many families can be blessed by ward members' service and love this month.

b.      We have a large agricultural presence in our ward.  Attend the fair, support youth, ask them about their projects, and donate/boost if possible.

c.      Mow a lawn, watch kids, help with irrigation – any Christlike deed of kindness

d.      Let go of a grudge, forgive an enemy, extend an olive branch of forgiveness

e.      Assist the elderly or widowed

f.        Welcome someone at church, let them know it’s good to see them.

   3.      Pray For Ways You Can Serve Your Neighbor

a.      Pray for families who have kids going back to school, that it can be a smooth transition for kids and parents alike

b.      Dads – offer to give Father’s blessings to your children or reach out to your ministers to assist you

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go the the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

Congratulations to all exhibitors at the Cache County Fair in the coming week!

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

August 14th, Elders Quorum and Relief Society activity at Maple Rise. It's an archery activity.

August 14th: Stake Blood drive. Please be aware of an upcoming blood drive sponsored by the Stake and operated by the Utah Red Cross. It will be Thursday, August 14th, at the Mendon Station. You may sign up for a donation slot here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=MendonUtahStake 

August 17th Sunday: Need help with any church technology? Get help 2nd hour in the multipurpose room

September 6, 2025, The next Friend to Friend broadcast, “Sharing Jesus’s Love Through Service,” will be available to download from the Gospel Library a few days prior to the suggested viewing date. The broadcast features messages from Elder Patrick Kearon and the Primary General Presidency

Sept 5-6 Young Married Adults Activity: Campout @ Early Park, details to come

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

October 4-5: General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Jace Arroyo,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

 Hi Everyone

I hope you are well. 

Our family recently returned from Glacier Park. Wowy! What magnificent displays of God's creations. Incredible! The hymn line "Then sings my soul, How Great Thou Art," came to mind many times. God created a World that we are blessed to live in. 

The restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encompasses so many blessings and truths. It is all about the love of our Heavenly Father helping us get back to His presence. Yes, he's restoring the church. Yes, he's restoring the priesthood. Yes, he's restoring gospel, but what he's trying to restore, here's the scriptural phrase, section 84, verse two. This is the church that is established in the last days for the restoration of his people. Heavenly Father cares about people far more than about programs and processes and even priesthoods. I'm a father who loves my children, and I'm trying to restore them to a right relationship with me. I'm trying to restore them to a proper understanding of who they really are as divine children of heavenly parents. I'm trying to restore their perspective on life, what they can become if they simply turn to me. That idea is deeply scriptural all throughout the Book of Mormon. Over and over, it talks about the restoration of the Jews. It is found in 1 Nephi 15, the restoration of his people, 2 Nephi 30, where Jew and Gentile are converted, both Alma and Abinadi talk about resurrection as a restoration of us in terms of spirit and body perfectly united. This is about children coming home to God. This is about restoring us to the kinds of people we need to be.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “The Power of Godliness." Ever since the priesthood was restored in 1829, the early Saints had been blessed by the Lord’s sacred power. They were baptized, confirmed, and called to serve by priesthood authority, much like we are today. But having access to priesthood power is not the same thing as completely understanding it, and God had more He wanted His Saints to understand—particularly with the coming restoration of temple ordinances. The 1832 revelation on the priesthood, now Doctrine and Covenants 84, expanded the Saints’ vision of what the priesthood really is. And it can do the same for us today. After all, there is a lot to learn about the divine power that holds “the key of the knowledge of God,” that makes manifest “the power of godliness,” and that prepares us to “see the face of God, even the Father, and live” (verses 19–22).

The video of the week teaches us the simple formula for Love, Share, Invite. A simple invitation to a church activity became life-changing for General Authorities and General Auxiliary Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Listen to Elder Patrick Kearon, Sister Tracy Y. Browning, and other church leaders share their powerful conversion stories. Discover how members, willing to love, share, and invite, helped them find joy through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

This week’s Sacrament meeting is a Fast and Testimony meeting. Partaking of the sacrament and strengthening one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel is the purpose of the Testimony meeting. A testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired

Showing Forth Greater Love: The August theme is Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering to our neighbors. 

1.      Get to know your neighbors better

a.      Invite them to dinner, a game night, or an FHE

b.      If you missed your ministering goal last month, this might be another good place to start

c.      Go on a walk with them and get to know them better

d.      Meet at the church for a playdate

2.      Serve Your Neighbor/Extend Love like the Savior

a.      Cookie/Service “Pay It Forward”.  Prayerfully consider a family in the ward you could take a plate of cookies to or perform service for.  Utilize the “You Have Been Loved” flyer and encourage them to pay it forward within 2-3 days.  Look for the flyers posted on ward members' doors and see how many families can be blessed by ward members' service and love this month.

b.      We have a large agricultural presence in our ward.  Attend the fair, support youth, ask them about their projects, and donate/boost if possible.

c.      Mow a lawn, watch kids, help with irrigation – any Christlike deed of kindness

d.      Let go of a grudge, forgive an enemy, extend an olive branch of forgiveness

e.      Assist the elderly or widowed

f.        Welcome someone at church, let them know it’s good to see them.

3.      Pray For Ways You Can Serve Your Neighbor

a.      Pray for families who have kids going back to school, that it can be a smooth transition for kids and parents alike

b.      Dads – offer to give Father’s blessings to your children or reach out to your ministers to assist you

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go the the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

Good luck to all exhibitors at the Cache County Fair in the coming week!

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Please be aware of an upcoming blood drive sponsored by the Stake and operated by the Utah Red Cross. It will be Thursday, August 14th at the Mendon Station. You may sign up for a donation slot here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=MendonUtahStake 

Activities

August 6th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined Mendon Stake activity.  There will be food and games. Please see the flyer

August 14th, Elders Quorum and Relief Society activity at Maple Rise. It's an archery activity.

August 14th: Stake Blood drive.

August 17th Sunday: Need help with any church technology? Get help 2nd hour in multipurpose room

September 6, 2025, The next Friend to Friend broadcast, “Sharing Jesus’s Love Through Service,” will be available to download from the Gospel Library a few days prior to the suggested viewing date. The broadcast features messages from Elder Patrick Kearon and the Primary General Presidency

Sept 5-6 Young Married Adults Activity: Campout @ Early Park, details to come

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference 

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen Family, Ed Jensen. 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hello Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. 

In Doctrine and Covenants 82:3, we are instructed how blessed we are and also the Lord's expectations with our blessings. Some critics of the church question why the church does not do "more" to help the World. Sister Sharon Eubank is brilliant. She gave a talk at a BYU Idaho Forum called The Sacred Life of Trees and said, I'm occasionally asked, why doesn't the church spend more money on humanitarian work? Why doesn't it stop building expensive temples and focus its resources on relieving the poor? This is a legitimate question for the Church of Jesus Christ, but is it money that solves society's ills? The world has poured $2 trillion into addressing chronic issues in Africa. Why isn't the situation better? Because money isn't really the issue. Lasting progress comes through trusted relationships, infrastructure, and reducing corruption. These are human heart problems and the ability of people to work together. Money doesn't necessarily create those things. They must be developed alongside the resources and frankly, it's much harder work. Back to Sister Eubank. I will never discount the one thing this church does that lifts entire communities in rapid development. It invites men and women of all social classes and backgrounds to enter sacred buildings and make the most binding and important promises of their mortal lives.  In those buildings, they promise not to steal or lie. They promise to be faithful to their spouse and children. They vow they will seek the interest of their neighbors and be peacemakers and become devoted to the idea that we are all one family, all valued and alike unto God. If those promises made in holy temples are kept, it transforms society faster than any aid or development project ever could. The greatest charitable development on the planet is for people to bind themselves to their God and mean it. Thank goodness the church builds 335 temples and counting. It is the greatest poverty alleviation system in the world.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Where much is given, much is required." Less than two years after the Church of Jesus Christ was restored, it had more than 2,000 members and was growing quickly. In March 1832, Joseph Smith met with other Church leaders “to discuss Church business”: the need to publish revelations, purchase land to gather on, and care for the poor (see Doctrine and Covenants 78, section heading). In March 1832, the Lord called Jesse Gause to be a counselor to Joseph Smith in the Presidency of the High Priesthood (now called the First Presidency). Doctrine and Covenants 81 is a revelation to Brother Gause about his new calling. But Jesse Gause did not serve faithfully, so Frederick G. Williams was called to replace him. Brother Williams’s name replaced Brother Gause’s name in the revelation. That may seem like a minor detail, but it implies a significant truth: most revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants are addressed to specific people, but we can always seek ways to apply them to ourselves (see 1 Nephi 19:23). When we read the Lord’s counsel to Frederick G. Williams to “strengthen the feeble knees,” we can think of people we might strengthen (Doctrine and Covenants 81:5). When we read the Lord’s invitation to members of the United Firm to “bind yourselves by this covenant,” we can think of our own covenants. And we can read His promise, “I … am bound when ye do what I say,” as if He’s speaking to us (Doctrine and Covenants 82:10, 15). We can do this because, as the Lord declared, “What I say unto one I say unto all” (verse 5).

The video of the week shows us the ministry of Elder Kearon. In one of the happiest and most faith-filled nations on earth, Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares a message of deep love, hope, and healing during his visit to the Philippines.

This week’s Sacrament meeting will focus on "How prayer will help us develop confidence before the Lord Jesus." The Mendon High Council and Mendon Stake Primary Presidency will speak.

Showing Forth Greater Love: July’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering.” Please see the Ward goals for July (attached or on the website). "May we labor side by side with the Lord of the vineyard, giving the God and Father of us all a helping hand with His staggering task of answering prayers, providing comfort, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees. " -Elder Jeffery R. Holland.
August theme will be Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering to our neighbors. 

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go the the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

The Mendon Stake Priesthood meeting will be this Sunday night at 6:00 pm at the Mendon Stake Center.

It is our month to clean the Church Building. You can find an assigned list at our Ward Website. Please meet at 8:00 am on Saturday to help. This week, the people/families assigned are: July 26th, 2025

       Steffanic, Jessica

Steffanic, Sam

Stracke, Gerhard

Stracke, Stephanie

Swan, Angela

Swan, Kameron

Thatcher, Linda

Thatcher, Mira

Thatcher, Steve

Turpin, Bret

Withers, Emma and Matt

Turpin, Jane

Weaver, Samantha

Weaver, Tyson

Weight, Christina

Weight, Ryan

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Congratulations to Elder Bayler Hansen, who entered the MTC this week. 

Activities

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting. If unable to attend in person, you can watch at this link

July 30th Financial Literacy workshop 6:30 pm at our Church. Come learn about Financial Preparedness

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined Mendon Stake activity.  There will be food and games. Please see the flyer

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen Family, Ed Jensen. 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

This past week, Stacey and I attended Church in Bangor, Ireland. It is always great to be with Latter-day Saints. It is the same Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints anywhere you go in the world. The people were wonderful. There is immediate peace and a feeling of the Holy Ghost when you enter an LDS Chapel. We then visited, about a ½ mile down the road, an Abbey with an attached graveyard. We found some names that may have matched some of my relatives. What a humbling experience to know that in the 1700s some of my relatives attended a church a ½ mile down the road from where I attended church 300 years later. It was truly a Malachi 4:6 moment. My heart was turned to my father’s and their father’s. I am thankful for my heritage. They paved the way.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “I will lead you along. Less than two years after the Church of Jesus Christ was restored, it had more than 2,000 members and was growing quickly. In March 1832, Joseph Smith met with other Church leaders “to discuss Church business”: the need to publish revelations, purchase land to gather on, and care for the poor (see Doctrine and Covenants 78, section heading). To meet these needs, the Lord called on a small number of Church leaders to form the United Firm, a group that would join their efforts to “advance the cause” of the Lord (verse 4) in these areas. But even in such administrative matters, the Lord focused on the things of eternity. Ultimately, the purpose of a printing press or a storehouse—like everything else in God’s kingdom—is to prepare His children to receive “a place in the celestial world” and “the riches of eternity” (verses 7, 18). And if those blessings are hard to comprehend right now, in the midst of the busyness of daily life, He reassures us, “Be of good cheer, for I will lead you along” (verse 18).

In the video of the week, we are blessed to see Elder Gary Stevenson's thoughts on D.C 78:17-18.

This week’s Sacrament meeting will be missionary focused. Elder Bayler Hansen and Elder Trent Godfrey will speak. One Elder going, One Elder returning. Exciting. Here are two articles to help prepare for their messages:  Elder Oaks, “Why do we Serve?”, President Monson, “What have I done for Someone Today?”

Showing Forth Greater Love: July’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering.” Please see the Ward goals for July (attached or on the website). "May we labor side by side with the Lord of the vineyard, giving the God and Father of us all a helping hand with His staggering task of answering prayers, providing comfort, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees. " -Elder Jeffery R. Holland.

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

The Mendon Stake will be starting the self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Business on Sept. 4 at the stake center. Paul Willie will be the facilitator. As we get closer to this date, we’ll send a Mendon Stake email out about registering for it. You can currently go the the mendonarearesources.org site to register. We’re also hoping to start Education for a Better Job on August 10, but that is not finalized. It will be held in the college/young ward building and will be facilitated by Rod Zilles.

It is our month to clean the Church Building. You can find an assigned list at our Ward Website. Please meet at 8:00 am on Saturday to help. This week, the people/families assigned are: July 19th, 2025

Skidmore, Jaylynn

            Skidmore, Jerry 

            Skidmore, Joel 

            Skidmore, Kimberly

            Sorensen, Alexa

            Sorensen, Angela

            Sorensen, Austin

            Sorensen, Chris

            Sorensen, Dennis 

            Sorensen, Leona

            Sorensen, Lisa

            Sorensen, Steven 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Congratulations to Elder Bayler Hansen, who began his mission this week. 

Activities

July 19th July 19th. 07:45 am -1:00 pm. Spring Creek 1st Ward Youth Conference. This is a follow-up to YM and YW camps. We will focus on "Looking to Christ." The youth will be rock climbing, rappelling, have a meal, and a devotional. Everyone attending the Youth Conference (Leaders, parents, and youth) will need a permission slip signed prior to participating. 

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting

July 30th Financial Literacy workshop 6:30 pm at our Church. Come learn about Financial Preparedness

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined Mendon Stake activity.  There will be food and games. Please see the flyer

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin, Elder Bayler Hansen 

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family, Randy Jacobsen

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

Doctrine and Covenants 76 is poetic words from Heaven. What a wonderful blessing we have in our lives to know what happens to us after we die. Elder Ballard has said “My dear brothers and sisters, do we appreciate the marvelous miracle of revelation? Through revelation we have received the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price, which contain the words of God to us, His children. Oh, how marvelous are the revelations we have received from the Lord! I have often said either Joseph Smith was the Lord’s instrument by which the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ in its fulness was accomplished, or he was not. There is no possible compromise of this doctrine. I raise my voice to the whole world in testimony that I know without reservation or question that Joseph Smith opened this dispensation through divine revelation and began the Restoration to the earth of the true Church of Jesus Christ.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Great shall be their reward and Eternal shall be their Glory.”  “What will happen to me after I die?” Nearly everyone asks this question in some form or another. For centuries, many Christian traditions, relying on biblical teachings, have taught of heaven and hell, of paradise for the righteous and torment for the wicked. But can the entire human family really be divided so strictly? In February 1832, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon wondered if there was more to know about the subject (see Doctrine and Covenants 76, section heading). There certainly was. While Joseph and Sidney were pondering these things, the Lord “touched the eyes of [their] understandings and they were opened” (verse 19). They received a revelation so stunning, so expansive, so illuminating that the Saints simply called it “the Vision.” It threw open heaven’s windows and gave God’s children a mind-stretching view of eternity. The vision revealed that heaven is grander and broader and more inclusive than most people had previously supposed. God is more merciful and just than we can comprehend. And God’s children have an eternal destiny more glorious than we can imagine.

The video of the week helps us understand Joseph and Sidney’s vision of the afterlife and the three kingdoms

This week’s Sacrament meeting will focus on ministering and our monthly goal. We will hear from our assigned missionaries from the Utah Ogden mission. Here are a couple of articles to help prepare Sister Bingham “Ministering as the Savior Does”, President Eyring “Inspired Ministering”

Showing Forth Greater Love: July’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering.” Please see the Ward goals for July (attached or on the website). "May we labor side by side with the Lord of the vineyard, giving the God and Father of us all a helping hand with His staggering task of answering prayers, providing comfort, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees. " -Elder Jeffery R. Holland.

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

It is our month to clean the Church Building. You can find an assigned list at our Ward Website. Please meet at 8:00 am on Saturday to help. This week, the people/families assigned are: July 12th, 2025

          Ricks, Robert Allen

            Riggs, Dallin 

            Riggs, Dennis

            Riggs, Jelisa

            Riggs, Kaylee

            Riggs, Paul

            Ryan, Janet

            Short, Alyssa

            Short, Isaac

            Simmons, Conner

            Simmons, Megan  

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration. 7:00 pm. Fathers and Sons come listen to leaders on the YM organization

July 19th July 19th. Spring Creek 1st Ward Youth Conference. This is a follow-up to YM and YW camps. We will focus on "Looking to Christ." The youth will be rock climbing, rappelling, have a meal, and a devotional. Everyone attending the Youth Conference (Leaders, parents, and youth) will need a permission slip signed prior to participating. 

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting

July 30th Financial Literacy workshop 6:30 pm at our Church. Come learn about Financial Preparedness

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined Mendon Stake activity.  There will be food and games.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen 

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family, Randy Jacobsen

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. Happy July 4th. I am proud to be an American. 

In Doctrine and Covenants 71:5-11, we discover that working with people can sometimes be frustrating. Ezra Booth has an interesting place in Church history. Humans can be messy. The humanness of Joseph Smith, a 25-year-old prophet, could be troublesome for some people. He sometimes acted like a 25-year-old human (jokes, playing games, good-natured). What do I do with both the miraculous and the human? Don't we all run into that?  Don't we all run into the, I've experienced the miraculous, I've experienced the human, What do I do with both of those? Stephen Covey was given an assignment to work with some of the highest leaders of the church. Somebody said to him, “Well, you'll find out they're just human and don't lose your testimony.” He had the best response to that. “He said, they didn't give me my testimony, and they can't take it away.”

Our focus is on Christ. We will see the evidence of his working through us, as imperfect humans, all the time. The question that confronted Ezra Booth and Zion, I think, is the question that confronts every single one of us each day at church. Of course, can I receive, can I both understand and also receive with love? The sometimes-disappointing reality of worshiping with other humans, of working with them, of having these high ideals, then bringing them down to earth, implementing them in real life. It's hard. It's hard in our families, too. Maybe I get married and I go into marriage expecting a romantic vision and ideal of my perfect soulmate who will be able to intuit my needs at every moment in time. It's disappointing when my spouse is actually a human being. He/She can't read my mind. He/She doesn't always say exactly what I need to hear. It's disappointing. It can be disillusioning. The question that faces me is, will I receive him/her? Will I receive the gift of marriage? Once I pass that step of accepting, cherishing, loving, looking at with the eyes of faith, the very ordinary reality in front of me, that's when the insides open up to me. That's when I see the bigness, the largeness, the beauty that's on the inside of these everyday relationships, these everyday projects, these everyday problems that we all face on a regular basis.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “No Weapon that is formed against you shall prosper.”  Ever since he was a boy, Joseph Smith faced critics—even enemies—as he tried to do God’s work. But it must have been particularly difficult in late 1831 when Ezra Booth began publicly berating the Church, because in this case the critic was a former believer. Ezra had seen Joseph use God’s power to heal a woman. He had been invited to accompany Joseph on the first survey of the land of Zion in Missouri. But he had since lost his faith and, in an attempt to discredit the Prophet, published a series of letters in an Ohio newspaper. And his efforts seemed to be working, because “unfriendly feelings … had developed against the Church” in the area (Doctrine and Covenants 71, section heading). What should believers do in a case like that? While there is not one right answer for every situation, it seems that often—including in this case in 1831—part of the Lord’s answer is to declare the truth and correct falsehoods by “proclaiming [the] gospel” (verse 1). Yes, the Lord’s work will always have critics, but in the end, “no weapon that is formed against [it] shall prosper” (verse 9).

The video of the week shows us testimonies of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Leaders who have benefited from others sharing the gospel.

This week’s Sacrament meeting is a Fast and Testimony meeting. Partaking of the sacrament and strengthening one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel is the purpose of the Testimony meeting. Testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so that many people can participate. 

Showing Forth Greater Love: July’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering.” Please see the Ward goals for July (attached or on the website). "May we labor side by side with the Lord of the vineyard, giving the God and Father of us all a helping hand with His staggering task of answering prayers, providing comfort, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees. " -Elder Jeffery R. Holland.

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

It is our month to clean the Church Building. You can find an assigned list at our Ward Website. Please meet at 8:00 am on Saturday to help. This week the people/families assigned are: July 5th, 2025

         Olsen, Brian

         Olsen, Cindy

         Olsen, Hal

         Olsen, Jared 

         Olsen, Kent 

         Olsen, Margaret 

         Olsen, Molly

         Osterlin, Annette

         Osterlin, Richard

         Perry, Adam

         Perry, Angela

 Peterson, Brad

         Peterson, Lori

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

July 4th Spring Creek Community Breakfast (see flyer) 7:00 am to 8:30 am. Flag raising ceremony, bike parade. 

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration.

July 19th July 19th. Spring Creek 1st Ward Youth Conference. This is a follow-up to YM and YW camps. We will focus on "Looking to Christ." The youth will be rock climbing, rappelling, have a meal, and a devotional. Everyone attending the Youth Conference (Leaders, parents, and youth) will need a permission slip signed prior to participating. 

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting

July 30th Financial Literacy workshop 6:30 pm at our Church. Come learn about Financial Preparedness

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined Mendon Stake activity.  There will be food and games.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen 

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family, Randy Jacobsen

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone

I hope you are well.

Doctrine and Covenants 68:25 teaches the role of parents. That phrase in verse 25 is parents teaching their children to understand the doctrine of repentance and faith is intriguing. There's a difference between teaching my children and trying to help them understand. I'm not quite sure what that difference is, but there is a difference. Think about the updated/revised “For the Strength of Youth” guidebook; it's about understanding why we live the gospel. As Brother Wilcox would say, this is not a book of rules. It's a book of reasons. You look at young people, how do you do all of this? Your church keeps you so busy. Well, Jesus Christ will help you. That's a chapter heading in it. Are you going to leave school and go on a mission? You are not going to get a job after school. Why? Well, because I love God and I love my neighbor. You, as members of the church, you're not supposed to look at pornography. Why is that? The young man can then say, Well, because I want to walk in God's light. You don't party like the other kids at school? You don't drink or anything? Why is that? Well, because my body is sacred. See, all those chapter headings of the workbook are reasons to live the gospel. It's not a checkbook of do this, and do that. It's understanding why we live a certain way, and why that'll bring blessings. The more that our youth can understand that, the more desirous they are to just live the gospel. Elder Renlund said in his conference talk that Heavenly Father doesn't want his children to do what is right. He wants them to choose to do what is right. And you can't choose unless you have an understanding of your choices.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Worth the riches of the World.”  From 1828 to 1831, the Prophet Joseph Smith received many revelations from the Lord, including divine counsel for individuals, instructions on governing the Church, visions of the latter days, and many inspiring truths of eternity. But many of the Saints hadn’t read them. The revelations weren’t yet published, and the few available copies were handwritten on loose sheets that were circulated among members and carried around by missionaries. Then, in November 1831, Joseph called a council of Church leaders to discuss publishing the revelations. After seeking the Lord’s will, these leaders made plans to publish the Book of Commandments—the precursor to today’s Doctrine and Covenants. Soon, everyone would be able to read for themselves the word of God revealed through a living prophet, vivid evidence that “the keys of the mysteries of the kingdom of our Savior are again entrusted to man.” For these and many other reasons, Saints then and now consider these revelations to be “worth … the riches of the whole Earth” (Doctrine and Covenants 70, section heading).

The video of the week gives us a historical background for the Doctrine and Covenants: August–November 1831.

This week’s second hour meeting will focus on technology tools of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Family Search, LDS Tools, Gospel Library, Donations and Reimbursements, Mobile Temple recommends). Please bring your smartphone and/or laptop. The videos and resources will be posted online at our website so you can refer to them as you wish.

This week’s Sacrament meeting is centered around Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by keeping covenants. The following talks will be referenced:  My body is a temple.  “Let virtue garnish your thoughts”, Elder Bednar, “We Believe in Being Chaste.

Showing Forth Greater Love: July’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by ministering.” Please see the Ward goals for July (attached or on the website). "May we labor side by side with the Lord of the vineyard, giving the God and Father of us all a helping hand with His staggering task of answering prayers, providing comfort, drying tears, and strengthening feeble knees. " -Elder Jeffery R. Holland.

Our summer youth camps have been completed and were highly successful due largely to the generous donations of those who purchased service items at our youth service auction.  We need to make sure that these services are fulfilled and completed as soon as possible.  Please look at the list shared and the services offered, and help them complete them. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

July 4th Spring Creek Community Breakfast (see flyer)

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration.

July 19th July 19th. Spring Creek 1st Ward Youth Conference. This is a follow-up to YM and YW camps. We will focus on "Looking to Christ." The youth will be rock climbing, rappelling, have a meal, and a devotional. Everyone attending the Youth Conference (Leaders, parents, and youth) will need a permission slip signed prior to participating. 

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined Mendon Stake activity.  There will be food and games.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen 

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family.

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Hi Everyone.

I hope this email finds you well.

In Doctrine and Covenants 64, we are taught the profound principle of forgiveness. This requires accountability.  A study done by a psychologist named Roy Baumeister asked people to think of a time they made someone else angry, and then think of a time someone made you angry, and then he had people describe those instances.  The descriptions were very different. In theory, you would think it would be the same because it's all about anger, but of course, it's not. The results showed that when I make someone angry, this is the typical story. I had a good reason to do what I did, and it wasn't that bad. They overreacted, they'll get over it, but when someone made me angry, well, they didn't have a good reason. They were just being mean. I am highly offended. I'm not just going to let that go. The psychologists said that the biases are built into roles, like that's just what humans do. We describe things to support our respective positions. Accountability is difficult. President Nelson spoke to this in his peacemakers talk, which is so packed with good stuff. He said, At this point, you may be thinking that this message would really help someone you know. I got a big laugh because it is easy to be like, yeah, you need to do this, but he said, perhaps you are hoping that it will help him or her to be nicer to you. I hope it will, but I also hope that you will look deeply into your heart to become a peacemaker. Accountability is hard. It's humbling. We all have our weaknesses. It's sometimes a little painful and embarrassing to admit those weaknesses.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “The Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.”  In the miserable heat of August 1831, several elders were traveling back to Kirtland from the land of Zion in Missouri. The travelers were hot and weary, and tensions soon turned into quarrels. It may have seemed like building Zion, a city of love, unity, and peace, was going to take a long time. Fortunately, building Zion—in Missouri in 1831 or in our hearts, families, and wards today—doesn’t require us to be perfect. Instead, “of you it is required to forgive,” the Lord said (Doctrine and Covenants 64:10). He requires “the heart and a willing mind” (verse 34). And He requires patience and diligence, for Zion is built on the foundation of “small things,” accomplished by those who do not become “weary in well-doing” (verse 33).

The video of the week teaches the principle of Forgiveness: After a man loses his wife and several children in a car accident, he finds healing and is able to forgive the offending driver through the power of Jesus Christ.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the option for temple recommends to be accessed on electronic devices (phone). You will need to let a member of the Bishopric know if you want a paper copy of your recommend or electronic access, as you cannot have both. Please see the attachment for instructions. 

This week’s Sacrament meeting is centered around Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by keeping covenants. The following talks will be referenced:  Sharing Forth Greater love to our Savior by keeping Covenants: Law of the Gospel; The Doctrine of Christ, by Elder Ashton, and The Doctrine of Christ Elder Christofferson

Showing Forth Greater Love: June’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by keeping covenants.” Please see the Ward goals for June. President Thomas S. Monson taught, “Sacred covenants are to be revered by us, and faithfulness to them is a requirement for happiness.” In 2 Nephi 5:27 we read, “And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness.” Earlier in this same chapter, we learn that Nephi and his people had just built a temple. Surely they were joyful covenant keepers! And in Alma 50:22-23 we read, “But behold there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi, since the days of Nephi, than in the days of Moroni.”Why? Again, we learn in a previous verse that they “were faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord.” Covenant keepers are commandment keepers!

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

If you are interested in auditioning for a new Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints video, they are producing footage highlighting the ministry of Our Savior, Jesus Christ. This is a solemn endeavor requiring many levels of auditions and approvals. Information for this role, criteria, and audition instructions may be found on the Church’s website at https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/serve/casting/learn-of-christ?lang=eng.

Activities

July 4th Spring Creek Community Breakfast (see flyer)

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration.

July 19th July 19th. Spring Creek 1st Ward Youth Conference. This is a follow-up to YM and YW camps. We will focus on "Looking to Christ." The youth will be rock climbing, rappelling, have a meal, and a devotional. Everyone attending the Youth Conference (Leaders, parents, and youth) will need a permission slip signed prior to participating. 

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined stake activity.  There will be food and games.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen 

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family.

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. The heat of Summer is upon us. Here is a fan to keep you cool. 

In Doctrine and Covenants 60:5, 61:22, 62:5,7, there is an interesting phrase that the Lord uses, “It mattereth not.” Elder Oaks has said, “No answer is likely to come to a person who seeks guidance in choosing between two alternatives that are equally acceptable to the Lord. There are times when we can serve productively in two different fields of labor. Either answer is right. Similarly, the Spirit of the Lord is not likely to give us revelations on matters that are trivial. I once heard a young woman in a testimony meeting praise the spirituality of her husband, indicating that he submitted every question to the Lord. She told how he accompanied her shopping. He would not even choose between different brands of canned vegetables without making his selection a matter of prayer. And then Elder Oaks kindly said, That strikes me as improper. I believe the Lord expects us to use the intelligence and experience he has given us to make these kinds of choices.” The Lord is teaching us to use our agency and take a step forward.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “I am with the faithful always.”  In early August 1831, Joseph Smith and other elders of the Church were preparing to return to Kirtland after a short visit to the “land of Zion” (Doctrine and Covenants 59:3). The Lord had wanted them to preach the gospel during their trip (see Doctrine and Covenants 52:10), and some of them did so diligently. But others were hesitant. “They hide the talent which I have given unto them,” the Lord said, “because of the fear of man” (Doctrine and Covenants 60:2). Many of us know how these elders felt. Even though we love the gospel, fear and doubt might keep us from sharing it. But the Lord is merciful. He “knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor [us]” (Doctrine and Covenants 62:1). Scattered throughout these revelations to early missionaries are reassurances that can help us overcome our fears and shortcomings: “I am able to make you holy.” “All flesh is in mine hand.” “I am with the faithful always.” And “He that is faithful and endureth shall overcome the world.” (Doctrine and Covenants 60:7; 61:6; 62:9; 63:47.)

The video of the week celebrates Fathers. Dear Dad: Here are just a few of the countless reasons we’re so glad you’re ours. Thanks for being our teacher, our support, and our friend. Happy Father’s Day.

This Sunday, we honor Fathers everywhere. Here are some videos to celebrate their important roles.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the option for temple recommends to be accessed on electronic devices (phone). You will need to let a member of the Bishopric know if you want a paper copy of your recommend or electronic access, as you cannot have both. Please see the attachment for instructions. 

This week’s Sacrament meeting is centered around Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by keeping covenants. It is also Father’s Day. Elder Rasband recommends four ways to show forth love to God: 1. Walk in all his ways. 2. Keep His commandments. 3. Cleave unto Him. 4. Serve Him with all your Heart, might, mind.

Showing Forth Greater Love: June’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by keeping covenants.” Please see the Ward goals for June. President Thomas S. Monson taught, “Sacred covenants are to be revered by us, and faithfulness to them is a requirement for happiness.” In 2 Nephi 5:27 we read, “And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness.” Earlier in this same chapter, we learn that Nephi and his people had just built a temple. Surely they were joyful covenant keepers! And in Alma 50:22-23 we read, “But behold there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi, since the days of Nephi, than in the days of Moroni.”Why? Again, we learn in a previous verse that they “were faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord.” Covenant keepers are commandment keepers!

The Young Men had a very successful camp in Moab, Utah, last week. Here is a photo gallery of our trip if you are interested. We had a balance of physical and spiritual activities that strengthened the young men. The Young Women are camping this week. Thank you for supporting the youth in our fundraiser this year.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

July 4th Spring Creek Community Breakfast (see flyer)

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration.

June 17th: 7:00 pm, Ward Temple and Family History Fair. Come learn how to find your ancestors and take a name to the temple

Jul 27 @ 6 pm - Stake General Priesthood Meeting

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined stake activity.  There will be food and games also.

Sept 26th - Stake Youth Conference

Sept 27-28th - Stake Conference

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan, Sister Claire Turpin

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Jardin and Elder Nam (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen 

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family.

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

Thank you, Spring Creek 1st Ward, for being unified and striving for the same goals as our Heavenly Father. In Doctrine and Covenants 51:9, the Lord says, Let every man deal honestly and be alike among this people and receive alike that you may be one. That is a phrase from John 17, the great intercessory prayer. Here's the Lord heading to his atoning sacrifice in the garden and on the cross. He's praying for you and me, for the apostles, for everyone who believes in the apostles. And this is his prayer that they may be one. If I'm the adversary, and that's the Savior's one prayer, and I know what I'm going to do. I'm gonna seek to divide. When we think of Satan controlling the earth, it's division, war, and people against people. One of the signs of the times that scares me the most is the one that says people will be divided against each other. Because when we are united in purpose and united in love, we are unstoppable as a society. But when you are pointing fingers or saying, well, if that guy had done a better job, we wouldn't be in this mess. That's when problems happen.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “A faith, a wise, and a wise steward.”  For Church members in the 1830s, gathering the Saints and building the city of Zion were spiritual as well as temporal labors, with many practical matters to address: Someone needed to buy land where the Saints could settle. Someone needed to print books and other publications. And someone needed to run a store to provide goods for people in Zion. In the revelations recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 51–57, the Lord appointed and instructed people to handle these tasks. But while skills in such things are needed in Zion, these revelations also teach that the Lord desires His Saints to become spiritually worthy to be called a Zion people—His people. He calls each of us to be “a faithful, a just, and a wise steward,” having a contrite spirit, “stand[ing] fast” in our appointed responsibilities (see Doctrine and Covenants 51:19; 52:15; 54:2). If we can do that—regardless of our temporal skills—the Lord can use us to build Zion.

The video of the week covers the Law of Consecration. Historians Kate Holbrook and Steven C. Harper discuss what the Law of Consecration is, the three core doctrines pertaining to it, and how we can live it today.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the option for temple recommends to be accessed on electronic devices (phone). You will need to let a member of the Bishopric know if you want a paper copy of your recommend or electronic access, as you can not have both.

This week’s Sacrament meeting is a Fast and Testimony meeting. Partaking of the sacrament and strengthening one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel is the purpose of the Testimony meeting. Testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so that many people can participate. 

Showing Forth Greater Love: June’s theme is “Sharing Forth Greater Love for our Savior by keeping covenants.” Please see the Ward goals for June. President Thomas S. Monson taught, “Sacred covenants are to be revered by us, and faithfulness to them is a requirement for happiness.” In 2 Nephi 5:27 we read, “And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness.” Earlier in this same chapter, we learn that Nephi and his people had just built a temple. Surely they were joyful covenant keepers! And in Alma 50:22-23 we read, “But behold there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi, since the days of Nephi, than in the days of Moroni.”Why? Again, we learn in a previous verse that they “were faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord.” Covenant keepers are commandment keepers!

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab. Please fill out the YM permission forms online. Please also fill out a waiver for rafting. Follow this link

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration.

June 17th: 7:00 pm, Ward Temple and Family History Fair. Come learn how to find your ancestors and take a name to the temple

August 4th YM/YW 4:00 pm-dark Bear River Bottoms. It is a combined stake activity.  There will be food and games also.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Durc (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Brian Olsen, Brian Olsen Family.

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Spring Creek 1st Ward

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well

In Doctrine and Covenants 50:10-12, the Lord describes how to counsel with each other, which should include him in the conversation. This applies to councils in the church, but also to all our relationships. This word, "reason", can go on a lot of branches. For me, the one that stands out is that it means we should be reasonable when we approach the Lord, when we approach discovering the truth of something. What's at stake specifically is how to determine what is right, what the true form of worship is, and what the true manifestation of the Spirit is. But it can be applied to anything with regard to how we would be reasonable in how we approach and consider things. And reason in general is being open-minded, being considerate of all factors that might be present. There's a great talk from Elder Renlund in BYU Education Week. He spoke about faith, observation, and reason with regard to how we come to truth and light.  He says, "Observation, reason, and faith facilitate revelation and enable the Holy Ghost to be a reliable, trustworthy, and beloved companion. These elements will be key factors in producing spiritual momentum in our lives and helping us move forward amid fear and uncertainty. When we start with an inclination to believe, observation leads to faith. As faith grows, reason facilitates the transformation of faith into revelatory knowledge, and revelatory knowledge produces added faith."  There is so much beauty and succinctness to what he wrote there. You could probably rewind as a listener and listen to that over and over and dig further into Elder Renlund's comments because he really lays the groundwork for how to access truth and how to grow that truth by applying these principles of faith, observation, and reason.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “That which is of God is Light.”  The Savior is our “good shepherd” (Doctrine and Covenants 50:44). He knows that sometimes sheep wander and the wilderness has many perils. So He lovingly leads us to the safety of His doctrine. He leads us away from dangers such as “false spirits, which have gone forth in the earth, deceiving the world” (Doctrine and Covenants 50:2). Following Him often means letting go of incorrect ideas or traditions. This was true for Leman Copley and others in Ohio. They had accepted the restored gospel but still held on to some beliefs that just weren’t correct. In Doctrine and Covenants 49, the Lord declared truths that corrected Leman’s previous beliefs about topics such as marriage and the Savior’s Second Coming. And when the Ohio converts “received … spirits which [they] could not understand,” the Lord taught them how to discern true manifestations of the Spirit (Doctrine and Covenants 50:15). The Good Shepherd is patient with us, His “little children,” who “must grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth” (Doctrine and Covenants 50:40).

The video of the week testifies to the strength of Marriage. In D.C 49:15-17, it explains this concept. President Eyring testified to this strength in this video. 

The Topics and Questions section of ChurchofJesusChrist.org now has answers to important questions on Church financial administration, temples, and peacemaking. These are the latest additions to Topics and Questions. Additional topics covered in that section of the Church website in the past year include the role of prophets, the origins of the Book of Abraham, the importance of the Lord’s Church, the multiple accounts of Joseph Smith’s First Vision, race and the Church, women’s service and leadership in the Church, and religion and science.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has announced the option for temple recommends to be accessed on electronic devices (phone). You will need to let a member of the Bishopric know if you want a paper copy of your recommend or electronic access, as you can not have both. This service is not quite ready but look at the attached document for directions. 

This week’s Sacrament meeting, we will continue the theme of showing forth greater love through Service. Elder Ballard has said, "The love the Savior described is an active love. It is not manifested through large and heroic deeds but rather through simple acts of kindness and service."

Showing Forth Greater Love: May’s theme is “Showing Forth Greater Love by Service.” The Ward Council has many suggestions for individuals, families, and the Spring Creek Ward 1st Ward to serve others this month. “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Please see the attachment for suggestions. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Congratulations to Bayler Hansen and all graduates who are graduating this Spring. 

Activities

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab. Please fill out the YM permission forms online. Please also fill out a waiver for rafting. Follow this link

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

July 13th, Young Men Organization 150 celebration.

June 17th: 7:00 pm, Ward Temple and Family History Fair. Come learn how to find your ancestors and take a name to the temple

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. 

The Spring Creek 1st Ward has many gifted individuals. I could begin a list of gifts and people, but that would take too many emails for you to read. D.C 46.10 states, "And again, verily I say unto you, I would that you should always remember and always retain in your minds that those gifts are, that are given unto the church. We try to, I think, sometimes overapply the spiritual gifts. It's a terminology thing. Yes, people are talented. Yes, God's blessed people. But when we're talking in this context about spiritual gifts, we're talking about gifts God has given to people who have had their hands laid on their heads and received the gift of the Holy Ghost. And it's for the benefit of the church, the benefit of the kingdom of God. The prophet Joseph Smith taught that the gifts of the Spirit obtained through that medium, the Holy Ghost, cannot be enjoyed without the gift of the Holy Ghost.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Seek ye Earnestly the best gifts.”  As Parley P. Pratt, Oliver Cowdery, Ziba Peterson, and Peter Whitmer Jr. left Kirtland and moved on to continue preaching the gospel, they left more than 100 new members of the Church who had plenty of zeal but little experience or direction. They had no instructional handbooks, no leadership training meetings, no broadcasts of general conference—in fact, they didn’t even have enough copies of the Book of Mormon to go around. Many of these new believers had been drawn to the restored gospel by the promise of marvelous manifestations of the Spirit, especially those described in the New Testament (see, for example, 1 Corinthians 12:1–11). But many found it hard to identify true manifestations of the Spirit. Seeing the confusion, Joseph Smith prayed for help. The Lord’s answer is valuable today, when people often deny or ignore the things of the Spirit. He reaffirmed that spiritual manifestations are real. He also clarified what they are: gifts from a loving Heavenly Father, “given for the benefit of those who love [Him] and keep all [His] commandments, and him that seeketh so to do” (Doctrine and Covenants 46:9).

The video of the week asks us to evaluate how we treat members attending services. Do you feel that your friends and people in your neighborhood feel welcome at your ward’s worship services? What are you doing to make your Church meetings places that people want to return to? Ponder how you can apply the Lord’s counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 46:1–7 (see also 2 Nephi 26:24–28; 3 Nephi 18:22–23).

This week’s Sacrament meeting, we will continue the theme of showing forth greater love through Service. The High Council, from the Mendon Stake, will speak to us. President Harold B. Lee said that one night he had what “must have been a vision” in which he was told, “If you want to love God, you have to learn to love and serve the people. That is the way to show your love for God” (Stand Ye in Holy Places [1974], 189).

Showing Forth Greater Love: May’s theme is “Showing Forth Greater Love by Service.” The Ward Council has many suggestions for individuals, families, and the Spring Creek Ward 1st Ward to serve others this month. “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Please see the attachment for suggestions. Make sure to sign up for an area within the Ward to clean and also participate in the Service projects on May 17th. 

Please be aware of the upcoming blood drive scheduled for May 22nd from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the Mendon Station. The church partners with the Red Cross in many areas, and the donation of blood blesses the lives of millions of people. Donations in our stake have an impact on people living in Utah and the surrounding areas. Please consider if you are able and willing to donate this needed resource. Mendon Station address: 95 N Main St, Mendon, UT 84325. You can sign up here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time (sponsor code: Mendon Utah Stake). 

Congratulations to Nate and Coronete Hansen on the arrival of their baby.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

May 17th, 9:00 am, Spring Creek 1st Ward day of service. 11:30 am Hot Dogs

May 16 Ward temple night, 7 pm session, refreshments in the dining area after, make your own appointment

May 18th, 5 pm Seminary Graduation at Mendon Stake Center

May 22nd from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm, Mendon Stake Blood drive:https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time (sponsor code: Mendon Utah Stake). 

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab. Please fill out the YM permission forms online. Please also fill out a waiver for rafting. Follow this link

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi All,

I hope this email finds you well.

In D.C 45.55 reads, Satan was bound and had no place in the hearts of the children of men. I ponder what Satan's place is in my heart these days. How do I feel most of the time? Is it full of the love of God, or is Satan influencing my mind and heart? Have we left any real estate in our hearts for Satan? Because if we have hate at all, then we're allowing Satan to enter.  I often try to think, do we have any carve-outs for people that you permit yourself to hate? Even if it's people who have wronged us or quote-unquote bad people. When we have any hatred for any person at all, then we're allowing Satan into our heart because God can't abide when we harbor resentment and hatred.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “The promises shall be fulfilled.”  The revelation in section 45 was received, according to the section heading, “to the joy of the Saints.” And there’s a lot to be joyful about in this revelation. In it, the Savior gives His tender promise to plead for us before the Father (see verses 3–5). He tells of His everlasting covenant spreading throughout the world, like “a messenger … to prepare the way before [Him]” (verse 9). And He prophesies of His glorious Second Coming. The Savior does all of this while also acknowledging that these are troubling times (see verse 34), in part because of the perils that are to take place before His coming. But that peril, that darkness, is not strong enough to extinguish the light of hope. “For verily I say unto you,” the Lord declared, “that I am … a light that shineth in darkness” (verse 7). That alone is reason to receive this revelation, with whatever counsel and warnings and truth He wants to give, with joy.

The video of the week celebrates mothers. There is no greater calling in the world or the Church than being a mother. This collection displays the joy and hope of working mothers, single mothers, and mothers of special needs children in their unique and traditional roles of motherhood.

This week’s Sacrament meeting is celebrating Mothers. Elder Ballard has said, "There is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood,” says Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.  “While women live in homes under many different circumstances—married, single, widowed, or divorced, some with children and some without—all are beloved of God, and He has a plan for His righteous daughters to receive the highest blessings of eternity.”

Showing Forth Greater Love: May’s theme is “Showing Forth Greater Love by Service.” The Ward Council has many suggestions for individuals, families, and the Spring Creek Ward 1st Ward to serve others this month. “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Please see the attachment for suggestions. Make sure to sign up for an area within the Ward to clean and also participate in the Service projects May 17th. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

May 17th, 9:00 am, Spring Creek 1st Ward day of service. 11:30 am Hot Dogs

May 16 Ward temple night 7 pm session, refreshments in the dining area after, make your own appointment

May 18th, 5 pm Seminary Graduation at Mendon Stake Center

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab. Please fill out the YM permission forms online.

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

In Doctrine and Covenants 42:12, we are instructed to teach the principles of the gospel. President Boyd K. Packer gave a great definition of principles. He said, "A principle is an enduring truth". He said, "it's a law, it's a rule and it's something that you can adopt to guide you in making decisions in your life." That's a gospel principle. The Lord is saying, teach the principles, teach the people how to make good decisions. Teach them how to understand what I am expecting of them. He then says those principles are found in the Bible and the Book of Mormon. It brings me great comfort and peace knowing I can turn to the scriptures for truth.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “My Law to Govern the Church.”  The Church grew rapidly in 1830 and 1831, particularly with a rush of new members in Kirtland, Ohio. This growth was exciting and encouraging to the Saints, but it also presented some challenges. How do you unify a quickly expanding group of believers? Specifically, what do you do when they bring doctrine and practices from their previous faiths? For example, when Joseph Smith arrived in Kirtland in early February 1831, he found new members sharing common property in a genuine attempt to imitate the New Testament Christians (see Acts 4:32–37). The Lord made some necessary corrections and clarifications on this and other topics. He did this largely through a revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 42 that He called “my law to govern my church” (verse 59). In this revelation, we learn truths that are fundamental in establishing the Lord’s Church in the latter days. And we learn that we have a lot more to learn: “If thou shalt ask,” the Lord promised, “thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge” (Doctrine and Covenants 42:61).

The video of the week shows us the benefits of service. Margo and Paolo go on an adventure to serve people around them. Find more stories about Margo and Paolo in the Friend magazine!

This week’s Sacrament meeting is Fast and Testimony meeting. The purpose of the Testimony meeting is to partake in the sacrament and strengthen one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. Testimony meetings are special meetings where we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so that many people can participate. 

Showing Forth Greater Love: May’s theme is “Showing Forth Greater Love by Service.” The Ward Council has many suggestions for individuals, families, and the Spring Creek Ward 1st Ward to serve others this month. “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Please see the attachment for suggestions.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities

May 17th, 9:00 am, Spring Creek 1st Ward day of service. 11:30 am Hot Dogs

May 18th, 5 pm Seminary Graduation at Mendon Stake Center

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab. Please fill out the YM permission forms online.

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Marianne Fredrickson family

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hello Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

As I study this week’s Come Follow Me lesson, I marvel at the dedication of the Saints walking away from their homes and moving a long distance. They were commanded to sell, rent, or leave their properties. In April of 2021, President Henry B. Eyring talked about when he was sealed in the Logan Temple, and President Spencer W. Kimball performed the sealing. He said to President Eyring and his wife, Hal and Kathy, live so you can walk away easily when the call comes. That's hard counsel back then. I think it's hard counsel today, he said. A call came from the church commissioner of education, Neal A. Maxwell. "The warning given by President Kimball to be able to walk away easily became a reality. It was a call to leave what seemed an idyllic family situation to serve in an assignment in a place I knew nothing about. Our family was ready to leave that blessed time and place because a prophet in a holy temple, a place of revelation, saw a future event for which we then were prepared." That's easier said than done. Again, President Kimball had said live so that when the call comes, you can walk away easily, maybe in some ways, but I think this is what they're being asked to do. That's hard. It'd be hard for us. You have that competing idea of bloom where you're planted, put down roots, but be ready to go so you can walk away easily. That's tough.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “If you are not one, you are not mine.”  To the early Saints, the Church was more than a place to hear some preaching on Sunday. The revelations used words like cause, kingdom, Zion, and, quite often, work. That may have been part of what attracted people to the restored Church. As much as they loved the doctrine, many also wanted something holy to dedicate their lives to. Even so, obeying the Lord’s 1830 command to gather in Ohio was not easy. For many, it meant leaving comfortable homes for an unfamiliar frontier (see “Voices of the Restoration: Gathering to Ohio”). Today, we can see clearly what those Saints could see only with the eye of faith: the Lord had great blessings waiting for them in Ohio. The need to gather to Ohio has long since passed, but Saints today still unite around the same cause: to “bring forth Zion” (Doctrine and Covenants 39:13). Like those early Saints, we are invited to forsake “the cares of the world” (Doctrine and Covenants 40:2) and trust the Lord’s promise: “You shall receive … a blessing so great as you never have known” (Doctrine and Covenants 39:10).

The video of the week celebrates Jesus Christ and His resurrection. A new Church of Jesus Christ-sponsored song has been released called “Because He Lives.”  We can have joy knowing that through the Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we can all live again if we live His gospel.

Representatives from the Mendon Stake will speak at this week's Sacrament meeting. The theme of “Showing forth greater love” will continue. Elder Ronald Rasband gave us great advice on how to show love for the Savior and God. He suggested we 1. Walk in all His ways. 2. Keep His commandments. 3. Cleave unto Him. 4. Serve Him with all your heart and soul. Read the article for insights and details. 

Showing Forth Greater Love: For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." He is risen! Attached are suggestions to show forth greater love for Christ. FYI: For May, we will focus on "Showing forth greater love through service. 

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Congratulations to Elder Don Bevan on your call as a service missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving at the Maple Rise Campground. 

We invite you to an upcoming self-reliance class, Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Self-Reliance.  This is a 9-week course that covers principles of emotional self-reliance, including managing emotions, helpful thinking patterns, and practicing gratitude. The course will be held in the College Ward/Young Ward/Spring Creek meetinghouse. Please follow the link below to register! The manual link is also below if you want to preview the course.  If you haven't attended this course yet, we hope you will consider it.  It has blessed many people's lives in our stake over the past few years. Finding Strength in the Lord Manual Sunday, April 27 for 9 weeks 6:30-8:30 PM in the Priesthood Room (south side of the building) 2394 W 2200 S, College Ward Facilitated by Teresa Hansen
https://quickreg.churchofjesuschrist.org/join-now/group/28f4b2e7-a102-f011-bae2-7c1e526ae639

Jeff Turner, brother of Marianne Fredickson, memorial service will be held Saturday at our building at 11:00 am. Jeff Turner grew up here in the Young Ward area, and his family requested to have services here. His obituary can be found here. You can also watch the memorial service at our meeting page link. 

Activities

May 18th, 5 pm Seminary Graduation at Mendon Stake Center

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab. Please fill out the YM permission forms online.

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family, Marianne Fredrickson family

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone.

I hope this email finds you well during Easter week. The most pivotal, important, crucial point in the History of the World occurred during this Easter season. We are blessed to have a Savior who fulfilled our Heavenly Father's plan of Redemption. 

I love the story of Mary and Jesus Christ. Mary wasn't in the garden by accident. She was there because ever since the Savior had ministered to her, she had given her time and means to minister to him. I don't believe that she was at the tomb just out of responsibility to prepare the body for burial, but that she came because she loved the Lord, knew of his divine mission, and longed to be with him, even though she found an empty tomb, she stayed after others left. Because she stayed, she had these two magnificent, very personal, and intimate experiences. It wasn't by accident, her commitment to the Lord was so deep, so strong, so meaningful that even after he was gone, her heart aching, not knowing exactly what was going to be happening next, she went to him, or where she thought he was, seeking him. It made me think and ponder for the last little while. Where do I stay? Where do I stand as I seek him? And what does that look like in our own lives? Are we taking the time to stay, to find him, to look?

I love her relationship and how much she loves the Lord, and I imagine that connection, that personal experience, that bond, and that bound her to him, that even though it's not what she expected, and he's gone, and she probably thought she had more time with him than they had. That connection was so strong. Her testimony of him was so strong that she stayed, even when there was the unknown, because of that personal experience. I imagine that, as I think of my own experiences with the Lord, I'm thinking that's something that changes you.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “I am He who liveth. I am He who was slain.”  April 3, 1836, was Easter Sunday. After helping administer the sacrament to Saints in the newly dedicated Kirtland Temple, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery found a quiet place behind a veil and bowed in silent prayer. Then, on this sacred day when Christians everywhere were commemorating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the risen Savior Himself appeared in His temple, declaring, “I am he who liveth, I am he who was slain” (Doctrine and Covenants 110:4). What does it mean to say that Jesus Christ is “he who liveth”? It doesn’t just mean that He rose from the tomb and appeared to His disciples in Galilee. It means that He lives today. He speaks through prophets today. He leads His Church today. He heals wounded souls and broken hearts today. So we can echo the words of Joseph Smith’s powerful testimony: “After the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony … which we give of him: That he lives!” (Doctrine and Covenants 76:22). We can hear His voice in these revelations, witness His hand in our lives, and feel “the joy this sentence gives: ‘I know that my Redeemer lives!’” (Hymns, no. 136).

The video of the week is actually a playlist for Easter. I encourage you to listen and ponder the Savior’s life for us. What is your favorite hymn or song listed?

This week’s Sacrament meeting is Easter Sunday. We will only have the Sacrament meeting and no other meetings. Please invite your family, friends, and neighbors for inspirational music and an Easter message.  President Russell M. Nelson teaches that Jesus Christ “came to pay a debt He didn’t owe because we owed a debt we couldn’t pay.” When Thomas asked the Lord, “How can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:5–6.) “For there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved,” declared the apostle Peter to the rulers, elders, and scribes of the Jewish factions. (Acts 4:12.) As Jesus walked in Solomon’s porch, the Jews came to him and solemnly asked, “If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, saying, “The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me.” (John 10:23–25.)

Temple and Family History Committee: We have appointments set up in April to do baptisms for the dead: Friday, April 18th at 6:30 pm.  Please go to the link below to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing. If you cannot sign up on the Google Doc, please text Lisa at 435-770-4147.  

Showing Forth Greater Love: For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen! Attached are suggestions to show forth greater love to Christ (see goals attached. Let us prepare for an Easter celebration of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, culminating in His Resurrection — the most glorious event in history,” says President Oaks, speaking on behalf of the entire First Presidency. How should we do this? President Oaks says one important way to celebrate is to teach the “profound meaning of the universal resurrection.” For Latter-day Saints, he clarifies, “the resurrection means that all who have ever lived will be resurrected — and the resurrection is literal.”

Young Ward has invited us to an “Empty Tomb” display on Easter Sunday (6:00 am- Noon). Take a look at the attached flyer for details.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Congratulations to Elder Don Bevan on your call as a service missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving at the Maple Rise Campground. 

Activities
April 20th: Empty Tomb display. 6 am- Noon. See flyer

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

April 22 Combined YM/YW service project picking Dyer's Woad weed, bring gloves, shovels, and a happy face. 

May 18th, 5 pm Seminary Graduation at Mendon Stake Center

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab

June 11- 14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Jace Arroyo, Arroyo Family

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

General Conference did not disappoint. It was wonderful! What was your favorite talk/moment? You can download talk summaries here. Some of my favorite talks were, well.....All of them! haha

This week, the Come Follow Me lesson emphasized missionary work. President Hinckley said, “What appears to be a sacrifice ends up being an investment that pays you dividends for the rest of your life.” As the Lord talks about it in the Doctrine & Covenants 31:3-5, there's not a lot about the people you're going to bring in, but what will happen to you as a missionary? You will be laden with sheaves upon your back. The laborer is worthy of his hire. Your family shall live. Just blessings for the missionary. I love how, consistently in the scriptures, the gospel is described as glad tidings of great joy; glad tidings mean good news, and gospel means good news. I love how consistent that is when critics speak of toxic perfectionism and legalism. But when the scriptures speak of the gospel, it's the church of joy, right? I choose to want to describe it that way. The way the scriptures do.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Lift up your voice to declare my Gospel.” Parley P. Pratt had been a member of the Church for about a month when he was called “into the wilderness” to preach the gospel (Doctrine and Covenants 32:2). Thomas B. Marsh had been a member for even less time than that when he was told, “The hour of your mission is come” (Doctrine and Covenants 31:3). Orson Pratt, Edward Partridge, and many others had likewise barely been baptized when their mission calls came. Perhaps there’s a lesson in this pattern for us today: if you know enough to accept the restored gospel by baptism, you know enough to share it with others. Of course, we always want to increase our gospel knowledge, but God has never hesitated to call upon the “unlearned” to preach His gospel (Doctrine and Covenants 35:13). In fact, He invites all of us, “Open your mouth to declare my gospel” (Doctrine and Covenants 30:5). And we do that best not through our own wisdom and experience but “by the power of [the] Spirit” (Doctrine and Covenants 35:13).

The video of the week emphasizes Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ showed us greater love than we can ever understand. As we celebrate His resurrection this Easter season, let’s remember that love was at the very heart of His sacrifice. In the Easter story, words like “cross” and “crucify” appear multiple times, but one word appears more than any other: "love". Jesus Christ taught us to “love one another,” to “abide in [His] love,” and ultimately demonstrated that “greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Temple and Family History Committee: We have two appointments set up in April to do baptisms for the dead: one for the youth on Friday, April 11th at 6:00 pm, and one for the adults on Friday, April 18th at 6:30 pm.  Please go to the link below to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing If you are unable to sign up on the Google Doc, please send a text to Lisa at 435-770-4147.

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold its own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact Brother Adam Perry for additional help with any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen! Attached are suggestions to show forth greater love to Christ (see goals attached). On April 16th, we will have a spiritual activity (see flyer). “Let us prepare for an Easter celebration of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, culminating in His Resurrection — the most glorious event in history,” says President Oaks, speaking on behalf of the entire First Presidency. How should we do this? President Oaks says one important way to celebrate is to teach the “profound meaning of the universal resurrection.” For Latter-day Saints, he clarifies, “the resurrection means that all who have ever lived will be resurrected — and the resurrection is literal.”

Young Ward has also invited us to an “Empty Tomb” display on Easter Sunday. Take a look at the attached flyer for details.

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Congratulations to Elder Don Bevan on your call as a service missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints serving at the Maple Rise Campground. 

Activities
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional. See flyer

April 13th-20th: Experience the Holy Week.

April 16th: 6:30 pm. “My Savior.” Bring your artwork, pictures, and statues of Christ to display (bring to church by 6:00 pm). Please enter through the east door. Sing Hymns about Jesus Christ during this Easter week celebration.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th: Empty Tomb display. 6 am-Noon. See flyer

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

May 18th 5 pm Seminary Graduation

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher, Elder Don Bevan

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi All

I hope this email finds you well.

Are you excited for General Conference? Here are some General Conference activities to keep you engaged. General conference is the worldwide gathering of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Twice a year, during the first weekend of April and the first weekend of October, Church leaders from around the world share messages or sermons focused on the living Christ and His gospel. Viewers learn how to find peace, hope, and joy in Jesus Christ; how to strengthen families by following Jesus’s teachings; and how to receive personal guidance and inspiration from God. The general conference is streamed and broadcast live in about 70 languages and is later translated into more than 100 languages. We invite everyone—of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds from everywhere in the world—to watch, listen, and participate.

Doctrine & Covenants 29 was filled with inspiring doctrine this week. Verse 34 states, “Wherefore verily I say unto you that all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal.” Nothing is temporal. All things are spiritual. Wait, tithing, paying my temporal money, is a spiritual practice. The word of wisdom, what I eat and avoid, is spiritual in nature. When I have to bring my family to clean the church on Saturday morning, that's a spiritual practice, not a temporal one. I think if we have that approach to our gospel activities, everything, everything the Lord has given us, if I'm reading this correctly, is spiritual in nature. There's nothing temporal. Sometimes in our callings, we might think this is a temporal thing. I'm trying to organize a blood drive or whatever. No, we're doing everything in the gospel for spiritual reasons. I think it gives us a better approach and we can approach it with some confidence that goodness will come, that we will feel connected to Christ, even though it feels very temporally in the moment.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Jesus will gather His people.” Even though the Church of Jesus Christ had been organized in 1830, many gospel truths were still yet to be revealed, and several early Church members had questions. They had read prophecies in the Book of Mormon about the gathering of Israel and the building up of Zion (see 3 Nephi 21). How would that happen? The revelations Hiram Page claimed to receive speculated on that subject, which only increased members’ curiosity (see Doctrine and Covenants 28). Other people wondered about the Fall of Adam and Eve and spiritual death. The Lord welcomed these questions in 1830, and He welcomes our questions today. “Whatsoever ye shall ask in faith,” He told the Saints, “being united in prayer according to my command, ye shall receive” (Doctrine and Covenants 29:6). In fact, as the doctrinally rich revelation in Doctrine and Covenants 29 shows, the Lord sometimes responds to our questions by giving us truth and knowledge far beyond what we ask.

The video of the week highlights The April 2025 edition of the World Report of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint

Temple and Family History Committee: We have two appointments set up in April to do baptisms for the dead: one for the youth on Friday, April 11th at 6:00 pm, and one for the adults on Friday, April 18th at 6:30 pm.  Please go to the link below to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing If you are unable to sign up on the Google Doc, please send a text to Lisa at 435-770-4147.

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold its own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help with any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen! Attached are suggestions to show forth greater love to Christ (see goals attached). On April 16th, we will have a spiritual activity (see flyer). “Let us prepare for an Easter celebration of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, culminating in His Resurrection — the most glorious event in history,” says President Oaks, speaking on behalf of the entire First Presidency. How should we do this? President Oaks says one important way to celebrate is to teach the “profound meaning of the universal resurrection.” For Latter-day Saints, he clarifies, “the resurrection means that all who have ever lived will be resurrected — and the resurrection is literal.”

Help your children feel the love of our Savior and develop a testimony of gospel truths by listening to and singing primary songs. See the attached flyer from Sister Feuz.

Activities
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional. See flyer

April 13th-20th: Experience the Holy Week.

April 16th: 6:30 pm. “My Savior.” Bring your artwork, pictures, and statues of Christ to display (bring to church by 6:00 pm). Sing Hymns about Jesus Christ during this Easter week celebration.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles, Brian Olsen

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone.

I hope this email finds you well.

This week has allowed me to focus on the Priesthood. Doctrine and Covenants 28 shows that only the Prophet is authorized to receive revelation for the church. The Priesthood has blessed me in multiple ways in my life. This week, I had the opportunity to use my Priesthood many times and also be the recipient of Priesthood blessings. Elder Dale G. Renlund and Sister Ruth Lybbert Renlund wrote: “Many members of the Church who accept, love, and appreciate the priesthood may find themselves ‘fuzzy’ on the doctrine and principles. Perhaps that is because the term priesthood is used in at least two ways. First, priesthood is the term used to describe God's total power and authority. Second, priesthood is also the term used to describe the power and authority that God gives us on earth to act in all things necessary for the salvation of God’s children.” They explain, “Thus, the same word, priesthood, refers both to God’s total power and authority and to that portion of His power and authority that He delegates to man on earth.”

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “All things must be done in order.” Revelation was still a relatively new concept for the Saints as the Restoration continued to unfold. Early Church members knew that the Prophet Joseph Smith could receive revelation for the Church. But could others? Questions like this became critical when Hiram Page, one of the Eight Witnesses of the gold plates, believed he had received revelations for the Church. Many faithful Saints believed that these revelations were from God. The Lord responded by teaching that in His Church, “all things must be done in order” (Doctrine and Covenants 28:13). This meant having only one person “appointed to receive commandments and revelations” for the entire Church (Doctrine and Covenants 28:2). Others, however, could receive personal revelation for their part in the Lord’s work. In fact, the Lord’s words to Oliver Cowdery remind us all: “It shall be given thee … what thou shalt do” (Doctrine and Covenants 28:15).

The video of the week highlights the last Supper. Meeting in an upper room with His disciples, Jesus washes their feet, institutes the sacrament, and commands them to love one another. John 13:1–35

This Sunday, March 30th, 2025, is Fast and Testimony meeting. The purpose of the Testimony meeting is to partake in the sacrament and strengthen one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. A testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so that many people can participate. 

Temple and Family History Committee: We have two appointments set up in April to do baptisms for the dead: one for the youth on Friday, April 11th at 6:00 pm, and one for the adults on Friday, April 18th at 6:30 pm.  Please go to the link below to sign up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cIEqp52T0yfZ-zGc0pWUflTSRXljNk8SPz-rqX6wS38/edit?usp=sharing If you are unable to sign up on the Google Doc, please send a text to Lisa at 435-770-4147.

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold its own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help with any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen! Attached are suggestions to show forth greater love to Christ (see goals attached). On April 16th, we will have a spiritual activity (see flyer). “Let us prepare for an Easter celebration of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, culminating in His Resurrection — the most glorious event in history,” says President Oaks, speaking on behalf of the entire First Presidency. How should we do this? President Oaks says one important way to celebrate is to teach the “profound meaning of the universal resurrection.” For Latter-day Saints, he clarifies, “the resurrection means that all who have ever lived will be resurrected — and the resurrection is literal.”

Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Self Reliance Course. It began Sunday, April 27th, at 6:30-8:30 pm for 9 weeks. Teresa Hansen will be the facilitator and will be taught in our meeting house. Please sign up at https://quickreg.churchofjesuschrist.org/join-now/group/28f4b2e7-a102-f011-bae2-7c1e526ae639

We are in charge of cleaning the Church building in March. Please look at the cleaning list for your assignment. Please arrive to clean the church on the assigned Saturday at 08:00 am. If you cannot fulfill your assignment, please trade with another family during the time you do. Cleaning the Church building is a Blessing. Please meet at the cleaning closet across from the library. You can pick an assignment and get to work.  This week, the assigned Families/Individuals are:

March 29, 2025

           Jensen, Dan & Laurel

            Jones, Carolyn

            Jones, Devin & Jennifer 

            Jones, Marilyn

            Kelly, Jon & Stacey

            Leishman, Gay

            Leishman, Paul & Kesa

            Lewis, Haigen Jo

            Lewis, Kelly & Britany 

            Malmberg, Bruce & Pam

            Milligan, Erik & Devarie

Activities
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional. See flyer

April 13th-20th: Experience the Holy Week.

April 16th: 6:30 pm. “My Savior.” Bring your artwork, pictures, and statues of Christ to display (bring to church by 6:00 pm). Sing Hymns about Jesus Christ during this Easter week celebration.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder      Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen,            Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Spring Creek 1st Ward

Hi All,

I hope this email finds you well.

Doctrine and Covenants 25 was a pleasure to read this week. It contains many nuggets of doctrine. Doctrine and Covenants 25:10 was intriguing. What are the things of this world, and how do we seek for things better? President Nelson, when he invited sisters to study this section, said, “Part of this endeavor will require you to put aside many things of this world.” Sometimes, we speak almost casually about walking away from the world with its contention, pervasive temptations, and false philosophies. But truly doing so requires you to examine your life meticulously and regularly. As you do so, the Holy Ghost will prompt you about what is no longer needful or worthy of your time and energy. As you shift your focus away from worldly distractions, some things that seem important to you now will recede in priority. You'll need to say no to some things, even though they may seem harmless. As harmless as becoming consumed by making yourself look great, as you embark upon and continue this lifelong process of consecrating your life to the Lord, the changes in your perspective, feelings, and spiritual strength will amaze you. It is a process of Sanctification (D & C 20:31)

Reading the First Presidency Easter Message this week was uplifting. A portion of the message stated, “We testify that Jesus Christ gives rest to those who are ‘heavy laden’ (Matthew 11:28). He knows ‘how to succor his people according to their infirmities’ (Alma 7:12) because He took upon Himself our pains and sins. “He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows ... and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:4-5).

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Seek for things of a better world.” For most people, being baptized is a reverent, peaceful experience. The baptism of Emma Smith and others, however, was disrupted by a mob who mocked them, threatened them, and forced them to flee. Later, just as Joseph was about to confirm the new members, he was arrested for upsetting the community with his preaching. How could Emma find reassurance that she was doing the right thing in all this opposition? The same place we can all find it—through revelation from the Lord. He spoke to Emma about “the things of a better [world]”—His kingdom—and her place in it. He told her not to fear, to “lift up [her] heart and rejoice,” and to “cleave unto the covenants [she had] made.” And these words of encouragement and counsel are His “voice unto all” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:9–10, 13, 16).

The video of the week highlights Emma Smith and excerpts from her life. Emma was vital to the restoration of the gospel. She contributed so many ideas and supported Joseph Smith to the end.  

The Mendon Stake Conference will be held on March 23 and March 24th. Here is a schedule (flyer attached) :

• Saturday 5:30 pm at the stake center - youth choir dinner followed by a practice Saturday at 7 pm at the Mendon Stake Center

• Adult Session Sunday at 7:30 am at the Mendon Stake Center - Leadership session at the stake center.  All ward council members and presidencies (and yes, secretaries) are invited.

•  Sunday at 10 am, the General Session will be held at the stake center and broadcast to the yw/cw/sc building. 

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold its own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help with any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our theme for March is "Showing forth greater love to our relationships (God, family, friends, children, spouse, etc.). "My dear brothers and sisters, how we treat each other really matters! How we speak to and about others at home, at church, at work, and online really matters. Today, I ask that we interact with others in a higher, holier way. Please listen carefully. 'If there is anything virtuous, loving, of good report, or praiseworthy' that we can say about another person whether to his face or behind her back, that should be our standard of communication." -President Russell M. Nelson

For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen! We will suggest activities to show forth greater love to Christ. On April 16th, we will have a spiritual activity. 

Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Self Reliance Course.  It will be held here beginning Sunday, April 27th, 6:30-8:30 pm for 9 weeks. Teresa Hansen will be the facilitator and will be taught in our meeting house. Please sign up at https://quickreg.churchofjesuschrist.org/join-now/group/28f4b2e7-a102-f011-bae2-7c1e526ae639

We are in charge of cleaning the Church building in March. Please look at the cleaning list for your assignment. Please arrive to clean the church on the assigned Saturday at 08:00 am. If you cannot fulfill your assignment, please trade with another family during the time you do. Cleaning the Church building is a Blessing. Please meet at the cleaning closet across from the library. You can pick an assignment and get to work.  This week, the assigned Families/Individuals are:

March 22, 2025

           Israelsen, Ross & Rebekka 

            Israelsen, Victor & Jill

            Jacobsen, Randy & Maleesa

            Leishman, Paul & Kesa

            Jensen, Darrell & Heather

            Jenson, Bret & Skie

            Jenson, Doug

            Jenson, Ed & Arvona

            Johnson, Tate & Hanna

Congratulations to Angie and Adam Perry on the birth of their son this week.

Activities
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference (see flyer).
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional. See flyer

April 13th-20th: Experience the Holy Week.

April 16th: 6:30 pm. “My Savior.” Bring your artwork, pictures, and statues of Christ to display (bring to church by 6:00 pm). Sing Hymns about Jesus Christ during this Easter week celebration.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder      Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen,            Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Ahmon and Elder Reuben (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi All

I hope this email finds you well.

Doctrine and Covenants section 20 has been wonderful to study this week. Doctrine and Covenants 20:31-32 gives us valuable insight into Jesus Christ's role in the Plan of Salvation. According to an 1828 dictionary in theology, justification is remission of sin, an absolution from guilt and punishment, or an act of free grace by which God pardons the sinner and accepts him as righteous on account of the atonement of Christ. Just like it says here, justification comes through grace. Sanctification is defined as the act of making holy in an evangelical sense, it's the act of God's grace by which the affections of men are purified and alienated from sin and the world and exalted to a supreme love of God. We're saved. We don't have to worry about going to hell. But the question is, when we get to heaven, are we going to be the kind of people that feel comfortable and belong there? And that's where sanctification comes into play. Once you have accepted Christ as your Savior, have you actually changed to where it has made a difference to you?

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “The Rise of The Church of Christ.” The Savior’s work of bringing forth the Book of Mormon was now complete. But His work of Restoration had just started. In addition to restoring doctrine and priesthood authority, the Lord had made it clear through earlier revelations that He also wanted to restore a formal organization—His Church (see Doctrine and Covenants 10:53; 18:5). On April 6, 1830, more than 40 believers crowded into the Whitmer family’s log home in Fayette, New York, to witness the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ. Some people wonder why an organized Church is necessary. The answer may be found, at least in part, in the revelations connected with that first Church meeting in 1830. They describe blessings that would not have been possible if the true Church of Jesus Christ had not been “regularly organized and established” in the latter days (Doctrine and Covenants 20:1).

The video of the week focuses on Heavenly Father's love for us.  Our Heavenly Father loves all His children so much that He wants us all to live in a kingdom of glory forever. He wants us to live eternally with Him and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints focuses on preparing God's children for salvation in the celestial glory and, more particularly, for exaltation in its highest degree.

This week's Sacrament meeting will focus on the “Sharing Forth Greater Love to our Relationships” theme. The Mendon Stake is in charge, and Brother Joseph Robins and Ali Myers (recent return missionary) will speak. Elder Lynn G. Robbins pointed out in his book Love Is a Choice, “Because love is as much a verb as it is a noun, the phrase ‘I love you’ is as much a promise of behavior and commitment as it is an expression of feeling (Love Is a Choice: Making Your Marriage and Family Stronger (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2015), 31.).”

The Mendon Stake Conference will be held on March 23 and March 24th. Here is a schedule (flyer attached) :

• Saturday 5:30 pm at the stake center - youth choir dinner followed by a practice Saturday at 7 pm at the Mendon Stake Center

• Adult Session Sunday at 7:30 am at the Mendon Stake Center - Leadership session at the stake center.  All ward council members and presidencies (and yes, secretaries) are invited.

• Sunday at 10 am, the General Session will be held at the stake center and broadcast to the yw/cw/sc building. 

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold its own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help with any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our theme for March is "Showing forth greater love to our relationships (God, family, friends, children, spouse, etc.). "My dear brothers and sisters, how we treat each other really matters! How we speak to and about others at home, at church, at work, and online really matters. Today, I ask that we interact with others in a higher, holier way. Please listen carefully. 'If there is anything virtuous, loving, of good report, or praiseworthy' that we can say about another person whether to his face or behind her back, that should be our standard of communication." -President Russell M. Nelson

For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen! We will suggest activities to show forth greater love to Christ. On April 16th, we will have a spiritual activity. 

We are in charge of cleaning the Church building in March. Please look at the cleaning list for your assignment. Please arrive to clean the church on the assigned Saturday at 08:00 am. If you cannot fulfill your assignment, please trade with another family during the time you do. Cleaning the Church building is a Blessing. Please meet at the cleaning closet across from the library. You can pick an assignment and get to work.  This week, the assigned Families/Individuals are:

March 15, 2025

            Hansen, Marvin & Judy

            Hansen, Nathan & Coronet 

            Hardman, Paul & Janee 

            Hess, Kyle & Marea 

            Hess, Zane

            Hugie, Brent & Julie

            Hugie, Kaden & Haylee 

         Israelsen, Benson & Brittany 

            Israelsen, Clark & Marsha

*Remember to place your food drive donations on your porch by 9:00 am. The Young Women and Young Men will gather items at 9:00 am this Saturday, March 15th.

Activities
March 15th Statewide FeedUtah Food Drive

March 15th: Stake emergency preparedness fair at 10:30 am Mendon Stake Center.
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference (see flyer).
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional. See flyer

April 13th-20th: Experience the Holy Week.

April 16th: 6:30 pm. “My Savior.” Bring your artwork, pictures, and statues of Christ to display (bring to church by 6:00 pm). Sing Hymns about Jesus Christ during this Easter week celebration.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

June 3-7 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen, Claire Turpin

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi All,

I hope this finds you well.

This week, I heard an interesting story correlating with D & C 19 and Martin Harris. It is reported that Charlemagne would instruct his forces to go into the nearest river to be baptized with a mass baptism. The story goes that he would have his soldiers fully submerged under the water, but a hand holding a sword had to remain out of the water because their bodies were God’s, but he would let them know that their fighting hand was his. How often are we not “All In” or fully submerged?  Do we hold back? Do we make partial commitments, saying I will do this but not that? Martin Harris was on the fence and wanted Joseph Smith to receive revelation to tell him what to do. Martin, pay the debt and watch what's going to happen. You will be a part of bringing a book onto the planet that will change lives for generations. The Book of Mormon is among the top three reasons recent converts have decided to be baptized. They felt something when they read it. Martin, who chose to act in faith here, became a major player in making that happen. Martin essentially decided to submerge himself totally in the work.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Learn of Me.” It took Martin and Lucy Harris years to acquire one of the finest farms in Palmyra, New York. However, in 1829, it became clear that the Book of Mormon could be published only if Martin mortgaged his farm to pay for the printer. Martin had a testimony of the Book of Mormon, but Lucy did not. If Martin went forward with the mortgage and the Book of Mormon did not sell well, he would lose his farm, put his marriage at risk, and damage his reputation in the community. Although our circumstances are different from Martin’s, at some time or another, we all face difficult questions like those he faced: What is the gospel of Jesus Christ worth to me? What am I willing to sacrifice to help build God’s kingdom? Martin Harris ultimately decided to mortgage his farm, so the first 5,000 copies of the Book of Mormon could be printed. But even this sacrifice—and any sacrifice we might make—is small compared to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, “the greatest of all” (Doctrine and Covenants 19:18), who bled from every pore to save the repentant.

The video of the week focuses on "Perfect love casteth out fear." This message reminds us of the power of faith, service, and sacrifice in fostering unity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through ministering in our communities, serving side by side, and answering the Lord’s call, we feel His love in our hearts and homes. "When we let Him, Jesus Christ helps us speak His love here." —Elder Gerrit W. Gong (General Conference Oct. 2023)

This week's Sacrament meeting will focus on the “Sharing Forth Greater Love to our Relationships” theme. Jessica Lawerence indicates, "Have you ever thought about how Jesus Christ developed relationships with others? Think about it. He was always aware of people around Him (see Luke 8:43–48; 19:2–10; John 1:47–50). He empathized with people (see John 11:31–36). He reached out to them and tried to lift their burdens (see Luke 8:26–36; John 5:5–9)."

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold its own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help with any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our theme for March is "Showing forth greater love to our relationships (God, family, friends, children, spouse, etc.). "My dear brothers and sisters, how we treat each other really matters! How we speak to and about others at home, at church, at work, and online really matters. Today, I ask that we interact with others in a higher, holier way. Please listen carefully. 'If there is anything virtuous, loving, of good report, or praiseworthy' that we can say about another person whether to his face or behind her back, that should be our standard of communication." -President Russell M. Nelson

For April, we will focus on the Savior by "Showing Forth Greater Love to our Savior." We will have activities celebrating Easter. He is risen!

We are in charge of cleaning the Church building in March. Please look at the cleaning list for your assignment. Please arrive to clean the church on the assigned Saturday at 07:45 am. If you cannot fulfill your assignment, please trade with another family during the time you do. Cleaning the Church building is a Blessing. Please meet at the cleaning closet across from the library. You can pick an assignment and get to work.  This week, the assigned Families/Individuals are:

March 8, 2025

            Fielding, Bret & Annette

            Fredrickson, Brent & Marianne

            Garfield, Taylor & Jaime

            Garner, Dave & Jamie

            Godfrey, James & Paula

            Godfrey, Tanner & Nicole

            Hall, Reed & Nadine

            Hansen, Bentley & Valerie

            Hansen, Brian & Shauna

Activities

March 1-29 Spring Creek Ward clean Church Building. See the cleaning assignment list.

March 6-8 Roots Tech; Elder Anderson and Sister Anderson keynote speakers
March 8th: 8-4 pm There is a Mendon Stake Priest retreat at the College Ward Church.
March 15th Statewide FeedUtah Food Drive

March 15th: Stake emergency preparedness fair at 10:30 am Mendon Stake Center.
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional.

April 13th-20th: Experience the Holy Week.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

June 6-10 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

Doctrine and Covenants 18 has been a joy to study this week. Even more frequent than a crisis of faith is a crisis of worth. I mean, this is not new. It's not just barely that people have started to wonder, am I of any worth to anyone, especially to God? It's acute, isn't it? I don't know anybody who doesn't struggle with that in some way, in some measure. And for many people, it is hard, very difficult. The Lord teaches us to “Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.” (D&C 18:10) It can often be easier to understand that God loves the people around us than truly feeling His love for us individually. Did you know that YOUR soul is great? Did you know that many people likely have looked at you and felt that glimpse of God’s love for you? Great people surround you. But don’t ever forget that YOU, you yourself, are great, too.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “The Worth of Souls Is Great.” There are many different ways to try to measure a person’s worth. Talent, education, wealth, and physical appearance can all affect how we evaluate each other—and ourselves. But in God’s eyes, our worth is a much simpler matter, and it is stated clearly in Doctrine and Covenants 18: “Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God” (verse 10). This simple truth explains so much of what God does and why He does it. Why did He instruct Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to establish the Church of Jesus Christ in our day? (see verses 1–5). Because the worth of souls is great. Why does He “command all men everywhere to repent” and send Apostles to preach repentance? (verse 9). Because the worth of souls is great. And why did Jesus Christ suffer “death in the flesh” and “the pain of all men”? (verse 11). Because the worth of souls is great. If even one of these souls chooses to accept the Savior’s gift, He rejoices, for “great is his joy in the soul that repenteth” (verse 13).

The video of the week discusses the importance of “Daily Bread.” Just as we need daily physical sustenance, the need for daily spiritual sustenance is just as strong. We can remember Jesus Christ daily as we pray, read the scriptures, and meditate.

This week's Sacrament meeting will be a Fast and Testimony meeting. The purpose of the Testimony meeting is to partake in the sacrament and strengthen one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. Testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so many people can participate. 

The Great Utah ShakeOut is a state-wide earthquake drill held on April 17th, 2025. As a ward, we are participating by focusing on one step towards preparedness each week for the next 7 weeks. Each household is encouraged to hold their own earthquake drill the week of April 17th. If you need assistance with any of these steps, please contact Tanner Godfrey (435)760-3457 or Nicole Godfrey (435)770-4313

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help if you have any questions. A new “Stewardship of Tithing” statement was recently released from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our theme for March will be "Showing forth greater love to our relationships (God, family, friends, children, spouse, etc.). "My dear brothers and sisters, how we treat each other really matters! How we speak to and about others at home, at church, at work, and online really matters. Today, I am asking us that

we interact with others in a higher, holier way. Please listen carefully. 'If there is anything virtuous, loving, of good report, or praiseworthy' that we can say about another person whether to his face or behind her back, that should be our standard of communication." -President Russell M. Nelson

We are in charge of cleaning the Church building in March. Please look at the cleaning list for your assignment. Please arrive to clean the church on the assigned Saturday at 8:00 am. If you cannot fulfill your assignment, please trade with another family during the time you do. Cleaning the Church building is a Blessing. Please meet at the cleaning closet across from the library. You can pick an assignment and get to work.  This week, the assigned Families/Individuals are:

March 1, 2025

         Christensen, Jay & Lisa

         Corbridge, Brian & Melissa

         Hansen, Heather 

         Daugs, Ammon & Alison

         Daugs, Nathan & Christy Jill

         Daugs, Rachel

         Eames, Andrew & Kiley

         Feuz, Dillon & Christine

 Congratulations to Bayler Hansen on receiving his mission call to El Paso, Texas, beginning June 23rd. 

Activities

March 1-29 Spring Creek Ward clean Church Building. See the cleaning assignment list.

March 6-8 Roots Tech; Elder Anderson and Sister Anderson keynote speakers
March 8th: 8-4 pm There is a Mendon Stake Priest retreat at the Stake Center.
March 15th Statewide FeedUtah Food Drive

March 15th: Stake emergency preparedness fair at 10:30 am Mendon Stake Center.
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional.

April 17th: Great Utah Shake Out. Please prepare weekly for this event. 

April 20th, Easter Sunday. Special Sacrament meeting. Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. 

June 6-10 YM Camp in Moab

June June 11-14th YW camp (Paradise, UT)

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Preparing to serve: Bayler Hansen

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Kelly Zilles,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi All, 

I hope this email finds you well. 

This week studying D &C 13 I read a quote from Oliver Cowdry that described the experience of the Restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood. Here is a shorter version of the quote "     "I won't attempt to paint to you the feelings of this heart nor the majestic beauty and glory which surrounded us on this occasion. Nor has the earth power to give the joy, bestow the peace or comprehend the wisdom delivered by the power of the Holy Spirit. Man may deceive his fellow men. Deception may follow deception. The children of the wicked one may have power to seduce the foolish and untaught, but one touch with the finger of his love. One ray of glory from the upper world. One word from the mouth of the Savior strikes it all into insignificance. The assurance that we were in the presence of an angel, the certainty that we heard the voice of Jesus and the truth unsullied as it flowed from a pure personage dictated by the will of God is to me past description. And I shall ever look upon this expression of the Savior's goodness with wonder and thanksgiving while I am permitted to tarry and beyond.” That is beautiful language. A first-hand account by Oliver Cowdry. I am thankful that Priesthood keys were restored to the earth that give us the authority to perform gospel ordinances and covenants. Think about how much the Priesthood has blessed you in your lives. Priesthood keys set us aside from any other Christian denomination.          

I was listening to this song this morning and wanted to pass the message on to you. God really loves us! Isn't it wonderful to know that he loves you and me? He is there for us all!   President Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994) once said, “Nothing is going to startle us more when we pass through the veil to the other side than to realize how well we know our Father and how familiar his face is to us” (quoted in Ensign, May 1991, 66). Can you imagine how exciting it will be to return home to Him someday?                                                            

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “Upon my fellow Witnesses.” Most people around the world have probably never heard of Harmony, Pennsylvania. The Lord often chooses humble places for the most significant events in His kingdom. In a wooded area near Harmony on May 15, 1829, John the Baptist appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. He placed his hands on their heads and conferred the Aaronic Priesthood upon them, calling them “my fellow servants” (Doctrine and Covenants 13:1). John the Baptist was the trusted servant of God who baptized the Savior and prepared the way for His coming (see Matthew 3:1–6, 13–17). To these two young men in their twenties, it must have been humbling, perhaps even overwhelming, to be called John’s fellow servants. At the time, Joseph and Oliver were relatively unknown, much as Harmony was. But service in God’s work has always been about how we serve, not about who notices. However small or unseen your contribution may seem at times, you too are a fellow servant in the Lord’s “great and marvelous work” (Doctrine and Covenants 14:1).

The video of the week testifies to the Blessings of the Priesthood. The priesthood is the power of God, which is given to man to act in His name.

This week's Sacrament meeting will focus again on our primary children in support of our theme this month: "Sharing forth Greater love to our Youth and Children." Sister Grassli's “Behold Your Little Ones” indicates, “Let us not underestimate today's children's capacity and potential power to perpetuate righteousness. No group of people in the Church is as receptive to the truth, both in efficiency of learning and with the greatest degree of retention. No group is as vulnerable to erroneous teaching, and no group suffers more from neglect or abuse. Children cannot provide for themselves. We, the adults of the world, must open the way for them. Our little children worldwide deserve to be “remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way.” (Moro. 6:4.)

A new batch of hymns has been released. I am excited to learn them and sing them. 

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. Please contact your ward or branch clerk for additional help if you have any questions.

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our February goal focuses on "Showing forth greater love to our Youth and Children." You can find a list to pray for the youth (weeks Feb 16th-28th) and children (weeks of Feb 2nd-16th) via this Link. Please see the attached flyer. Our theme for March will be "Showing forth greater love to our relationships (God, family, friends, children, spouse, etc.). 

We will be in charge of cleaning the Church building in March. Please look at the cleaning list for your assignment. 

Activities

Feb 22nd: Stake RS Women’s Conference, 10 am-1 pm @ Stake Center

March 1-29 Spring Creek Ward clean Church Building. See the cleaning assignment list.
March 8th: 8-4 pm There is a Mendon Stake Priest retreat at the Stake Center.
March 15th Statewide Food Drive.

March 15th: Emergency Fair: 10:30 am Mendon Stake Center. See flyer
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, Kelly Zilles,

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone.

Happy Valentine's Day!

First and foremost…Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for supporting the youth in their fundraiser this past Tuesday night. It was a massive success for the youth. We hope you enjoyed your meal and enjoyed the auction. Your generosity provides the youth to attend Summer Camps, activities, and youth conferences.

This week's Come Follow Me lesson taught me an important lesson. I asked the following questions, “Why don’t I always listen to the Lord?” “Have I missed the boat?” Have I missed a significant opportunity?” Here is the answer to my questions. D.C 10:45 "Behold, there are many things engraved upon the plates of Nephi, which do throw greater views upon my gospel. Therefore, it is wisdom in me that you should translate this first part of the engravings of Nephi and send forth in this work."  I love the “greater views.” Because of this entire experience you've (Joseph) been through, you will have “greater views.” And I think that's life. Through the hard times we go through, we're like, "Why didn't I listen to the prompting? It came clear." In this case, the answer to Joseph came pretty clear, "Nope, don't give the pages to Martin Harris.” The Lord was then merciful after the experience transpired and said, “Okay, this is what it needs to look like." He was clear.  Many times in our lives, we just have a feeling, oh, I shouldn't do that. Sometimes, we still do. And then we go through this really rough experience. But if, in the end, we find repentance, we find the Savior, we tend to have a "greater view" of things. The Lord responds I now have “greater views” for you.

The Come Follow Me lesson is entitled “That you may come off Conqueror.” As the Book of Mormon's translation continued, a question arose: What should Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery do about those lost pages of the translation? It might make sense to retranslate that portion, but the Lord saw something they could not: their enemies were planning to alter the words on those pages to cast doubt on Joseph’s inspired work. God had a plan to avoid that problem and keep the work moving forward. Thousands of years earlier, God inspired Nephi to write a second record that covered the same time period “for a wise purpose in Him” (1 Nephi 9:5). “My wisdom,” the Lord said to Joseph, “is greater than the cunning of the devil” (Doctrine and Covenants 10:43). That’s a reassuring message in a day like ours, when the adversary is intensifying his efforts to weaken faith. Like Joseph, we can be “faithful and continue on” in the work God has called us to do (verse 3). Then, we will find that He has already provided a way so that “the gates of hell shall not prevail” against us (verse 69).

The video of the week reflects D &C 10:5 Pray always, that you may come off conqueror. I love, love, love the words:

 Pray, he is there;

Speak, he is list’ning.

You are his child;

His love now surrounds you.

He hears your prayer;

He loves the children.

Of such is the kingdom, the kingdom of heav’n.

This week's Sacrament meeting will focus on the question, “Why are covenants a manifestation of God’s Love? The Stake Leaders will share doctrine in their talks. In Alma 50:23 we read, “But behold there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi, since the days of Nephi, than in the days of Moroni.” Why? We learn in a previous verse that they “were faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord.” Covenant keepers are commandment keepers!

A new batch of hymns has been released. I am excited to learn them and sing them. 

In a post to his social media channels on February 14, 2025, President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced dates for an open house celebration for the Salt Lake Temple. He invited people from around the world to take part in this unique opportunity, which will occur from April to October 2027.

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. If you have any questions, please get in touch with your ward or branch clerk for additional help.

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our February goal focuses on "Showing forth greater love to our Youth and Children." You can find a list to pray for the youth (weeks Feb 16th-28th) and children (weeks of Feb 2nd-16th) via this Link. Please see the attached flyer.

Activities
February 16th, 3:50 pm For the Strength of Youth Devotional. See flyer.
Feb 22nd: Stake RS Women’s Conference, 10 am-1 pm @ Stake Center
March 8th: 8-4 pm There is a Mendon Stake Priest retreat at the Stake Center.
March 15th Statewide Food Drive.
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, Kelly Zilles, Brad Peterson

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. 

Studying the Doctrine and Covenants is fantastic, and seeing the growth in incremental stages. Elder Neal A. Maxwell stated, "Discipleship requires all of us to translate doctrines, covenants, ordinances, and teachings into improved personal behavior." How classic is that? I love that. We are to translate doctrines, covenants, ordinances, and teachings into improved personal behavior. Otherwise, we may be doctrinally rich but end up developmentally poor. Isn't that amazing? Then, he says, "The celestial attributes such as love, patience, mercy, meekness, and submissiveness embody what we are to become. They're not just a litany of qualities to be recited. Awareness of them, even articulate awareness without their application, will not do. Furthermore, these same attributes be developed in the abstract. The relevant experiences are required even when you and I would try to avoid them." Some of those gifts that we want to avoid in life are those gifts that will help us to translate ourselves. We've gone from teaching me all that I must know to teaching me all that I must do to teaching me all that I must be. 

The Come Follow Me lesson teaches us about “the spirit of revelation.” In the fall of 1828, a young schoolteacher named Oliver Cowdery took a teaching job in Manchester, New York, and stayed with the family of Lucy and Joseph Smith Sr. Oliver had heard about their son Joseph and his remarkable experiences, and Oliver, who considered himself a seeker of truth, wanted to know more. The Smiths described visits from angels, an ancient record, and the gift to translate by the power of God. Oliver was fascinated. Could it be true? Lucy and Joseph Sr. gave him advice that applies to anyone seeking truth: pray and ask the Lord. Oliver did, and the Lord answered, speaking “peace to [his] mind” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:23). Revelation, Oliver discovered, isn’t just for prophets like Joseph Smith. It’s for anyone who wants it and seeks it diligently. Oliver still had a lot to learn, but he knew enough to take his next step. He knew the Lord was doing something important through Joseph Smith, and Oliver wanted to be part of it.

The video of the week teaches us “patterns of Light” and God’s revelation. Elder David A. Bednar explains the patterns of light by which God communicates with us and how they lead to the spirit of revelation.

This week's Sacrament meeting focuses on our youth. Brother Brad Wilcox encourages youth by stating, "As you fulfill your birthright responsibilities, you are never alone. The Lord of the Vineyard labors with you. You are working hand in hand with Jesus Christ. With each new covenant—and as your relationship with Him deepens—you hold each other tighter and tighter until you are firmly clasped together. In that sacred symbol of His grace, you will find both the desire and the strength to live exactly how the Savior lived—differently from the world. You’ve got this because Jesus Christ has got you!"

Our Youth Fundraiser is on Tuesday, February 11th, at 6:00 pm. We will have a dinner (pulled pork) and an auction. The suggested dinner cost is $8 /person or $25 / family. You are welcome to donate more to our cause. You are welcome to donate items to the fundraiser (Contact a member of the Bishopric). Here is a list of current items for the auction.  There will be a silent auction and a live auction that evening. We invite you to RSVP for the dinner and auction (or pay via Venmo @Jon-Kelly-20). If you have donated an item, please bring it to the Auction on Tuesday night or contact a member of the Bishopric for help. 

Ward Temple Night - Friday, February 7, at 7:00 pm - Endowment session. You need to schedule your own appointment. Refreshments will be served immediately following the session in the temple dining area. (The Logan Temple is closed February 10th-24th.)

Logan FamilySearch Center Group Appointment - Thursday, February 13, at 6:30 p.m. It will include an introduction to FamilySearch, a tour of the Family Search Center to highlight all of the options you can do there, and a treasure hunt through FamilySearch. Watch for a sign-up sheet that will be passed around in each organization!  You may also text or call Jay at 435-760-3138 or Lisa at 435-770-4147 to get your name added to the list.

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. If you have any questions, please get in touch with your ward or branch clerk for additional help

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our February goal will focus on "Showing forth greater love to our Youth and Children." You can find a list to pray for the youth (weeks Feb 16th-28th) and children (weeks of Feb 2nd-16th) via this Link. Please see the attached flyer

Activities

Feb 10-24 Logan Temple closed.
Feb 10th: 7pm Stake Young Married Activity: Apple of My Eye @ the Church
February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see the attached flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.
Feb 13th: 6:30 pm Group appointment @ Logan Family Search Center-
February 16th, 3:50 pm For the Strength of Youth Devotional. See flyer.
Feb 22nd: Stake RS Women’s Conference, 10 am-1 pm @ Stake Center
March 8th: 8-4 pm There is a Mendon Stake Priest retreat at the Stake Center.
March 15th Statewide Food Drive.
March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.
March 30th- Fast Sunday
April 5-6th General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
April 13th, 3:45 pm For the Strength of Youth devotional.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, Kelly Zilles, Brad Peterson

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well.

I have learned many lessons from this week’s Come Follow Me lesson. I pondered upon the word “embark” in D & C 4. Embark only appears once in all standard works. You might find it in a synopsis, the italicized text before a chapter, but in the actual text of the scriptures once. When I looked it up on dictionary.com, it said something like to board a ship, aircraft, or vehicle for a journey.  I thought you can't sort of embark. If you sort of get on an airplane and it leaves, this can cause great physical discomfort. You can't sort of get on a ship and leave. It has that both feet-in type feeling to it. If you're going to embark, then embark, and then you keep going, "See that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind, and strength," I mean, this sounds like get both feet in, "that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day." We literally “embark” each day on a journey. Do you remember your Sacrament covenants to “always remember him and keep His commandments?” How are you "embarking" in your journey today to draw closer to God? 

The Come Follow Me lesson focuses on following God’s commandments and His mercy.  During his first few years as the Lord’s prophet, Joseph Smith didn’t yet know everything about the “marvelous work” he had been called to do. However, one thing his early experiences taught him was that to do God’s work, his eye must be “single to the glory of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 4:1, 5). For example, if the Lord counseled him to do something he wasn’t sure he wanted to do, he needed to follow the Lord’s counsel. And even if he had “many revelations, and … power to do many mighty works,” if he felt that what he wanted was more important than God’s will, he “must fall” (Doctrine and Covenants 3:4). But Joseph learned something else just as important about doing God’s work: “God is merciful,” and if Joseph sincerely repented, he was “still chosen” (verse 10). God’s work is, after all, a work of redemption. And that work “cannot be frustrated” (verse 1).

The video of the week shows us the importance of daily restoration. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Church members compare drifting in life to the circles walked by test participants in a dense forest. Shadows creep in off the path, but we can chase away darkness and come back.

This week's Sacrament meeting is Fast and Testimony meeting. We remind you of the statement that will be read in every Fast and Testimony meeting. Partaking of the sacrament and strengthening one another by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel is the purpose of the Testimony meeting. Testimony meeting is a special meeting when we can strengthen each other's faith by bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel. To bear testimony means to declare gospel truths inspired by the Holy Ghost.  We ask that we keep our testimonies brief so many people can participate.  We remind you that we will be fasting for our Primary Children and Youth in the Spring Creek 1st Ward.

Our Youth Fundraiser is on Tuesday, February 11th, at 6:00 pm. We will have a dinner (pulled pork) and an auction. The suggested dinner cost is $8 /person or $25 / family. You are welcome to donate more to our cause. You are welcome to donate items to the fundraiser (Contact a member of the Bishopric). Here is a list of current items for the auction.  There will be a silent auction and a live auction that evening. We invite you to RSVP for the dinner and auction (or pay via Venmo @Jon-Kelly-20).

Ward Temple Night - Friday, February 7, at 7:00 pm - Endowment session. You need to schedule your own appointment. Refreshments will be served immediately following the session in the temple dining area. (The Logan Temple is closed February 10th-24th.)

Logan FamilySearch Center Group Appointment - Thursday, February 13, at 6:30 p.m. It will include an introduction to FamilySearch, a tour of the Family Search Center to highlight all of the options you can do there and a treasure hunt through FamilySearch. Watch for a sign-up sheet that will be passed around in each organization!  You may also text or call Jay at 435-760-3138 or Lisa at 435-770-4147 to get your name added to the list.

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. If you have any questions, please get in touch with your ward or branch clerk for additional help

Showing Forth Greater Love: Our February goal will focus on "Showing forth greater love to our Youth and Children." We will begin with a special fast for them on February 2nd. You can find a list to pray for the youth (weeks Feb 16th-28th) and children (weeks of Feb 2nd-16th) via this Link. Please see the attached flyer

Please be aware of the stake-sponsored Red Cross blood drive on Tuesday, February 4th, from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the Mendon Station. You can sign up with the following link: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Mendon%20Utah%20Stake

Activities

Feb 2cnd, Special Spring Creek Ward 1st Ward fast for our Youth and Primary Children

Feb 4th Red Cross Blood Drive.

February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see the attached flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.

February 16th, 3:50 pm For the Strength of Youth Devotional. See flyer.

March 9th: 3:50 pm, For the Strength of Youth Devotional

March 15th Statewide Food Drive.

March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, Kelly Zilles, Brad Peterson

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi All,

I hope this email finds you well.

I have marveled, pondered, and been enlightened by Joseph Smith’s History, which we have recently studied. So many profound lessons have been learned from this young boy’s experience. He searched for two-plus years for an answer to his questions and then taught in his language (D &C 1:24). Joseph gives the pattern to asking questions, but not necessarily the specific way God answers prayers. There are numerous ways that God uses to answer questions. Moroni 7:24 states “And behold, there were divers ways that he did manifest things unto the children of men, which were good; and all things which are good cometh of Christ; otherwise men were fallen, and there could no good thing come unto them.” Joseph received a vision. We can receive answers by our mind and heart (D & C 8:2) The Lord has also said in D & C 9:8 “if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.” Logic, evidence, service, through others, and experiences are other ways we receive answers to prayers. Look at Sariah when her sons returned from Jerusalem (1 Nephi 5). I am grateful that Heavenly Father uses multiple, multiple ways to answer our prayers. I have seen and experienced many ways he answers prayers. I am thankful to God who shows forth love to his children in diverse ways. 

The Come Follow Me lesson continues studying Joseph Smith’s history, focusing on Moroni’s visions. It had been three years since God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to Joseph Smith in the grove, and Joseph hadn’t received any additional revelations since then. He began to wonder whether the Lord was displeased with him. Like all of us, he had made mistakes, and he felt condemned by them. Yet God still had a work for him to do. And the work Joseph was called to do is connected to what God asks of us. Joseph would bring forth the Book of Mormon; we are invited to share its message. Joseph would receive priesthood keys to turn the hearts of the children to their fathers; we can now receive ordinances for our ancestors in temples. Joseph was told of prophecies that would soon be fulfilled; we are called to help fulfill these prophecies. As we participate in God’s work, we can expect to face opposition and even persecution, just as the Prophet did. But we can also have faith that the Lord will make us instruments in His hands, just as He did for Joseph.

The video of the week shows Joseph Smith's vision with Moroni. Three years have passed since Joseph Smith's First Vision. He wonders if he will receive any further inspiration. An angel named Moroni appears to Joseph and tells him about a book of gold plates.

This week's Sacrament meeting is the Spring Creek 1st Ward conference. The focus will be “God’s Love.” Elder Hirst has stated, “I wonder, if Jesus were to choose a place where you and He could meet, a private place where you would be able to have a singular focus on Him, might He choose your unique place of personal suffering, the place of your deepest need, where no one else can go? Somewhere, you feel so lonely that you must be all alone, but you aren’t quite, a place to which perhaps only He has traveled but has already prepared to meet you there when you arrive. If you are waiting for Him to come, might He already be there and within reach?”

February 11th is our Youth Fundraiser. We will have a dinner (pulled pork) and an auction. You are welcome to donate items to the fundraiser(Contact a member of the Bishopric). Here is a list of current items for the auction.  We invite you to RSVP for the dinner and auction.

The Temple and Family History committee has January plans. Please watch this video on indexing. If you would like to meet with one of our Temple and Family History Consultants after you have watched the video, please email jayc@digis.net or text Jay (435-760-3138) or Lisa Christensen (435-770-4147), and they will arrange for one of our Temple and Family History consultants to come to your home and give you some guidance!

Your Official Tax Summary Statement is now available. It can be viewed by selecting the Donor Statements menu option in Online Donations and selecting the link provided in the Generated Statements section. If you have any questions, please get in touch with your ward or branch clerk for additional help

We are excited about the Mendon Stake initiative for 2025, “Showing forth greater Love.” The month of January will focus on "Showing forth greater love for God (what is the difference between knowing God loves you and feeling God's love?). Please see the attached document for the goals this month. We look forward to you actively placing "How God shows love to you and How you feel God’s love" ideas by the Bishop's office on our Ward Bulletin board. How are you doing with the Goals for this month? For our February goal we will focus on "Sharing forth greater love to our Youth and Children." We will begin with a special fast for them on February 2nd. 

Activities

January 26th: Spring Creek 1st Ward Conference

Feb 2cnd, Special Spring Creek Ward 1st Ward fast for our Youth and Primary Children

February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see the attached flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.

February 16th, 3:50 pm For the Strength of Youth Devotional. See flyer.

March 9th: 3:50 pm, For the Strength of Youth Devotional

March 15th Statewide Food Drive.

March 22-23rd Mendon Stake Conference.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, Kelly Zilles

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hello Everyone

I hope this email finds you well

President Nelson recently celebrated his 101st New Year. We are celebrating his 7th year as our beloved Prophet. I am grateful for a Prophet who continues to lead, guide, and direct the church. Look at the teachings of President Nelson since he became the prophet. You can also review 15 important quotes about blessings from attending the temple.

The fires in California have been devasting and sad. The upside to the tragedy is the help that has poured into the area. The Just Serve app has been a great asset to organize relief for people in need. Elder David Bednar recently wrote on Instagram, "But much more than temporal resources are required to heal from such overwhelming losses. Please know that we are not, and never need be, alone. You can press forward with heavenly help. The Lord Jesus Christ perfectly knows and understands, for He has felt and borne our individual burdens. He has perfect empathy and can extend His arm of mercy to us. He can reach out, succor, heal, and strengthen us to do that which we could never do relying on our own limited capacity. This is a true principle for the people of Southern California and for anyone experiencing pain or disappointment anywhere in the world.

The Come Follow Me lesson invites us to study Joseph Smith’s history of the First Vision. You might say the Doctrine and Covenants is a book of answers to prayers: many of the sacred revelations in this book came in response to questions. The question that began it all—the one that sparked the latter-day outpouring of revelation—was asked by a 14-year-old boy. A “war of words and tumult of opinions” (Joseph Smith—History 1:10) had left Joseph Smith confused about religion and his relationship with God. Perhaps you can relate to that. We find many conflicting ideas and persuasive voices in our day. When we want to sort through these messages and find truth, we can do what Joseph did. We can ask questions, study the scriptures, ponder, and ultimately ask God. In response to Joseph’s prayer, a pillar of light descended from heaven. God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared and answered his questions. Joseph’s testimony of that miraculous experience boldly declares that anyone “who [lacks] wisdom might ask of God, and obtain” (Joseph Smith—History 1:26). We can all receive, if not a heavenly vision, at least a clearer vision, illuminated by heavenly light.

The video of the week shows us a compilation of Joseph Smith's first vision accounts. It has been a blessing to study about the first vision this week. There are so many important doctrines we learn from the first vision. 

This week's Sacrament meeting will focus on the question “ Why faith in Jesus Christ is critical to feeling God's love? An important way that we can feel God’s love is by following His Son, Jesus Christ. When we repent of our sins through the suffering of Jesus Christ, we feel hope and can receive direction from Him. Elder Uchtdorf has said, “When we truly understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us, the confusion clears, and our priorities align. Our walk as disciples of Christ becomes more joyful. Our lives take on new meaning. Our relationship with our Heavenly Father becomes more profound. Obedience becomes a joy rather than a burden.”

February 11th is our Youth Fundraiser. We will have a dinner (pulled pork) and an auction. You are welcome to donate items to the (Contact a member of the Bishopric). Here is a list of current items for the auction.  We invite you to RSVP for the dinner and auction.

The Temple and Family History committee has January plans. Please watch this video on indexing. If you would like to meet with one of our Temple and Family History Consultants after you have watched the video, please email jayc@digis.net or text Jay (435-760-3138) or Lisa Christensen (435-770-4147), and they will arrange for one of our Temple and Family History consultants to come to your home and give you some guidance!

The Mendon Stake will begin a self-reliance Personal Finance course on Jan. 19 at 6 pm.  Brother Rodney Zilles will be the facilitator.  Anyone throughout the stake is welcome to attend. Here's the link:  https://quickreg.englishconnect.org/group-details/95377

We are excited about the Mendon Stake initiative for 2025, “Showing forth greater Love.” The month of January will focus on "Showing forth greater love for God (what is the difference between knowing God loves you and feeling God's love?). Please see the attached document for the goals this month. We look forward to you actively placing "How God shows love to you and How you feel God’s love" ideas by the Bishop's office on our Ward Bulletin board. How are you doing with the Goals for this month?

Activities

January 19th: Personal Finance Course begins. https://quickreg.englishconnect.org/group-details/95377

January 26th: Spring Creek 1st Ward Conference

February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see the attached flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess, Sister Linda Thatcher

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. 

Can you believe that "The Living Christ" proclamation is 25 years old? On Jan. 1, 2000, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints published “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles” on the morning of one of the most anticipated dates in history. Twenty-five years later, four of the document’s original signers serve in the First Presidency or Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Church President Russell M. Nelson; President Dallin H. Oaks and President Henry B. Eyring, counselors in the First Presidency; and President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. I am thankful for this proclamation that has strengthened my testimony over the years about Jesus Christ. 

The Come Follow Me lesson gives us insight into the Doctrine and Covenants Introduction. In November 1831, the restored Church of Jesus Christ was just a year and a half old. Though growing, it was still a little-known group of believers living in relatively small towns, led by a prophet in his mid-twenties. But God considered these believers to be His servants and His messengers, and He wanted the revelations He had given them to be published to the world. Doctrine and Covenants section 1 is the Lord’s preface, or introduction, to these revelations. It clearly shows that even though the membership of the Church was small, there was nothing small about the message God wanted His Saints to share. It is a “voice of warning” for all “the inhabitants of the earth,” teaching them to repent and establish God’s “everlasting covenant” (verses 4, 8, 22). The servants carrying this message are “the weak and the simple.” But humble servants are just what God calls for—then and now—to bring His Church “out of obscurity and out of darkness” (verses 23, 30).

The video of the week highlights the 2025 Youth theme "Look unto Christ." Filmed in Indonesia, this year's theme video was created to help you know that when you "Look Unto Christ," He will help you overcome the storms in your life.

This week's Sacrament meeting will focus on "God's love." It is one thing to have a knowledge of God's love, but to feel and know God's love is a testimony builder. Elder Hirst said in the October 2024 conference, "Isn’t it wonderful that there are times when we can feel so fully and personally noticed and loved? Nephi can call Him “his” Jesus, and so can we. Our Saviour’s love is the “highest, noblest, strongest kind of love,” and He provides until we are “filled.” Divine love never runs dry, and we are each a cherished favorite. God’s love is where we all overlap as circles on a Venn diagram. Whichever parts of us seem different, His love is where we find togetherness." I love the Primary Song, God's Love, which confirms how we know it is real. Knowing God loves his children is vital to the plan of salvation. He supports, guides, directs, and loves us daily. Elder Groberg stated, "God’s love fills the immensity of space; therefore, there is no shortage of love in the universe, only in our willingness to do what is needed to feel it. I am thankful that I know God loves all his Children and is actively engaged in each of our lives. Elder Kearon has said, "He is relentlessly in pursuit of you."

February 11th is our Youth Fundraiser. We will have a dinner (pulled pork) and an auction (the Priests have built simple benches for auction). You are welcome to donate items to the auction  (Contact a member of the Bishopric). You can also donate things that you might sell in a yard sale (that are in good shape). We will display some of these items on tables to be bid upon. These funds go to support the youth program with camps and activities. Please see the flyer.

The Temple and Family History committee has January plans. Please watch this video on indexing. If you would like to meet with one of our Temple and Family History Consultants after you have watched the video, please email jayc@digis.net or text Jay (435-760-3138) or Lisa Christensen (435-770-4147), and they will arrange for one of our Temple and Family History consultants to come to your home and give you some guidance! We have three sealing sessions set up for the month of January on the following dates: Friday, January 17 – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, January 22 – 7:00 pm,  and Friday, January 24 – 6:45 pm. You can go to this link https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j3M8H9jw_n6YVZQDibhYUSnWK7WgyOyhOBULpM6WNpY/edit?usp=sharingto to sign up for one of the sealing sessions or text Lisa Christensen at 435-770-4147.

The Mendon Stake will begin a self-reliance Personal Finance course on Jan. 19 at 6 pm.  Brother Rodney Zilles will be the facilitator.  Anyone throughout the stake is welcome to attend. Here's the link:  https://quickreg.englishconnect.org/group-details/95377

We are excited about the Mendon Stake initiative for 2025, “Showing forth greater Love.” The month of January will focus on "Showing forth greater love for God (what is the difference between knowing God loves you and feeling God's love?). Please see the attached document for the goals this month. We look forward to you actively placing "How God shows love to you" ideas by the Bishop's office on our Ward Bulletin board. 

The youth theme for this year is “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” —Doctrine and Covenants 6:36" On Sunday, January 12th at 5:50 pm, a youth, parent, and leader training broadcast in conjunction with the Young Men and Young Men General Presidencies. Elder Kevin W. Pearson, Utah Area President, conducts this training, which features Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman and Young Men General President Steven J. Lund.

Activities

January 12, 5:50 pm: Parent, Youth, Leader broadcast on Youth theme with Elder Pearson, President Freeman, and President Lund. 

January 19th: Personal Finance Course begins. https://quickreg.englishconnect.org/group-details/95377

January 26th: Spring Creek 1st Ward Conference

February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Marilyn Jones, 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Spring Creek 1st Ward

Happy New Year Everyone

The Spring Creek 1st Ward has undergone many changes in one year. One year ago, our Ward looked very different. We did not even carry the title of Spring Creek 1st Ward. We have had many challenges, ups and downs, blessings, tender mercies, deaths, births, inspirational events, parties, and more. The Spring Creek 1st Ward is a great place to be today. We look forward to many positive things happening in the coming year. 

The Come Follow Me lesson finds us beginning the Doctrine and Covenants. How do you commemorate the 200th anniversary of an event that changed the world? That’s the question the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles pondered as April 2020 approached, marking 200 years since Joseph Smith’s First Vision. “We wondered if a monument should be erected,” President Russell M. Nelson recalled. “But as we considered the unique historic and international impact of that First Vision, we felt impressed to create a monument not of granite or stone but of words … , not to be carved in ‘tables of stone’ but rather to be etched in the ‘fleshy tables’ of our hearts [2 Corinthians 3:3]” (“Hear Him,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 90). The monument of words they created is titled “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World.” It’s a monument not just to the First Vision but also to everything Jesus Christ has done—and is still doing—since then. The Restoration of His gospel started when one person turned to God and heard Him. It continues that same way: one heart, one sacred experience at a time—including yours.

The video of the week shows us the healing power of Gratitude. In his 100 years of life, President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has seen almost everything—a Great Depression, a world war, and a global pandemic, to name a few. And he would like to propose one remedy to help us find joy in hard times: gratitude. #GiveThanks Practicing gratitude may not prevent us from experiencing sorrow, anger, or pain, but it can help us look forward with hope. We can thank our loved ones, our bodies and minds, music and literature, and the beauty of the natural world.

February 11th is our Youth Fundraiser. We will have a dinner (pulled pork or chicken) and an auction (the Priests have built simple benches for auction). You are welcome to donate items to the auction  (Contact a member of the Bishopric). You can also donate things that you might sell in a yard sale (that are in good shape). We will display some of these items on tables to be bid upon. These funds go to support the youth program with camps and activities. Please see the flyer

The Temple and Family History committee has January plans. Please watch this video on indexing. If you would like to meet with one of our Temple and Family History Consultants after you have watched the video, please email jayc@digis.net or text Jay (435-760-3138) or Lisa Christensen (435-770-4147), and they will arrange for one of our Temple and Family History consultants to come to your home and give you some guidance! We have three sealing sessions set up for the month of January on the following dates: Friday, January 17 – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, January 22 – 7:00 pm,  and Friday, January 24 – 6:45 pm. You can go to this link https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j3M8H9jw_n6YVZQDibhYUSnWK7WgyOyhOBULpM6WNpY/edit?usp=sharingto to sign up for one of the sealing sessions or text Lisa Christensen at 435-770-4147.

The Mendon Stake is ready to begin a self-reliance Personal Finance course on Jan. 19 at 6 pm.  Brother Rodney Zilles will be the facilitator.  Anyone throughout the stake is welcome to attend. Here's the link:  https://quickreg.englishconnect.org/group-details/95377

We are excited about the Mendon Stake initiative for 2025, “Showing forth greater Love.” We will have specific monthly goals focusing on showing forth greater love. The month of January will focus on "Showing forth greater love for God (what is the difference between knowing God loves you and feeling God's love?). Please see the attached document for the goals this month. We look forward to you actively placing ideas by the Bishop's office on our Ward Bulletin board. 

The youth theme for this year is “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” —Doctrine and Covenants 6:36" On Sunday, January 12th at 5:50 pm, a youth, parent, and leader training broadcast in conjunction with the Young Men and Young Men General Presidencies. Elder Kevin W. Pearson, Utah Area President, conducts this training, which features Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman and Young Men General President Steven J. Lund.

Activities

January 12, 5:50 pm: Parent, Youth, Leader broadcast on Youth theme with Elder Pearson, President Freeman, and President Lund. 

January 26th: Spring Creek 1st Ward Conference

February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Mason Olsen, Marilyn Jones, 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Spring Creek 1st Ward

Hello Everyone

I hope this email finds you well. I hope your Christmas was great. 

Here, we find ourselves at the end of the year. It has been a great year for the Spring Creek 1st Ward. We began our new "1st" Ward. We celebrated many great occasions. Remember the Patriotic Party, 4th of July Breakfast, Book of Mormon read-a-thon, Pumpkin Launch, and many other fun activities? We also have to remember the memorable Sacrament meetings this past year. There were so many great speakers and musical numbers. The future is bright, bright, bright. Elder Stevenson states, "My beloved brothers and sisters, my dear young friends, there will likely be difficulties for each of us in the days ahead. However, as we enter this coming decade of unprecedented moments, may we share glad tidings through the simple activities of living, caring, inviting, and uniting. As we do so, the Lord will bless us with experiences never to be forgotten."

The Come Follow Me points us once again to Jesus Christ. From Nephi to Moroni, every Book of Mormon prophet was committed to the sacred purpose summarized on the book’s title page: “the convincing of [all people] that Jesus is the Christ.” One prophet saw Him as a premortal spirit, and another saw His mortal ministry in a vision. One stood on a wall to proclaim the signs of His birth and His death, and another knelt before His resurrected body, touching the wounds in His hands, feet, and side. All of them knew this essential truth: “There is no other way nor means whereby man can be saved, only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, who … cometh to redeem the world” (Helaman 5:9). As believers around the world celebrate the goodness and love of God in sending His Son, ponder how the Book of Mormon has strengthened your faith in Christ. As you think about His birth, ponder why and how His coming has changed your life. Then, you can experience the true joy of Christmas—the gift that Jesus Christ gives you.

The video of the week celebrates Jesus Christ's birth through song. Run to the stable! See the Babe! Sing and rejoice with the angels above! Delight in this Christmas video for families.”

February 11th is our Youth Fundraiser. We will have a dinner (pulled pork or chicken) and an auction. You are welcome to donate items to the auction (Contact a member of the Bishopric). You can also donate things that you might sell in a yard sale (that are in good shape). We will display some of these items on tables to be bid upon. These funds go to support the youth program with camps and activities. Please see the flyer

We are excited about the Mendon Stake initiative for 2025, “Showing forth greater Love.” We will have specific monthly goals focusing on showing forth greater love. The month of January will focus on "Showing forth greater love for God (what is the difference between knowing God loves you and feeling God's love?), February will be "Showing Forth Greater Love to Youth and Children, March will be "Showing Forth Greater Love for relationships in our life."  Please see the attached goals for January.

Activities

January 26th: Spring Creek 1st Ward Conference

February 11th: 6:00 pm; Youth fundraiser. Dinner and auction: see flyer. Please support our youth. All money raised goes toward youth camps and activities. The youth will offer service activities to bid on. There will also be physical auction items to buy. Let a youth leader know if you want to donate an item for the auction.

Prayer List:

Praying for others:

Missionaries: Serving from our Ward: Elder Trent Godfrey, Sister Linda Thatcher, Sister Marianne Fredrickson, Elder Reed and Sister Nadine Hall, Elder Steve and Sister Mira Thatcher, Sister Alysse Olsen, Elder Austin Sorensen, Elder Will and Sister Cindy Atkin, Elder Kaden Hess

Utah Ogden Missionaries: Elder Bench and Elder Bodkin (435-374-9635)

Members: Cindy Olsen, Skie Jenson, Mason Olsen, Brian Olsen, Malmberg family, Marilyn Jones, Kelly Zilles, 

Thank you for all that you do

We are thinking of you. We are praying for you. We Love you

Let us know if we can help in any way.

Love

Bishop Jon Kelly

Brother Dan Jensen

Brother Brian Hansen

Brother Isaac Short: Executive Secretary

Brother Adam Perry: Ward Clerk

P.S. Spring Creek Ward Website: springcreekward.org

Hi everyone,

I hope this email finds you well.

Christmas is quickly upon us and I hope you have a Merry one. I marvel at Mary’s courage. An angel appeared to her and told her the plan—she would be the mother of Jesus Christ. Her response shows her willingness to accept God’s will: “Be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). How would she care for the baby, especially since she wasn’t married? What would her friends and family say? How could she teach this special child all He needed to know? She didn’t have all those answers, but she bravely believed God would show her the way. Wow! Talk about faith.

The Ward Christmas Party was amazing. Thank you to all who planned the night, from food to activities. You can watch the shadow nativity on our Spring Creek 1 Ward website. It was powerful and brought the spirit abundantly.

It has been an honor, privilege, blessing, inspiring, and testimony-building experience reading the Book of Mormon this Year. Moroni caps the entire book off in the last chapter. Moroni 10:32 states, “if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God. 33 And again, if ye by the grace of God are perfect in Christ, and deny not his power, then are ye sanctified in Christ by the grace of God, through the shedding of the blood of Christ, which is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot." The Book of Mormon leads people to Christ. I am grateful for this knowledge.

The Come Follow Me lesson invites us to “Come unto Christ.” The Book of Mormon opens with Nephi’s promise to show us that “the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith” (1 Nephi 1:20). The book closes with a parallel invitation from Moroni: “Remember how merciful the Lord hath been” (Moroni 10:2–3). What examples of the Lord’s mercy have you seen in the Book of Mormon? You might think of the merciful way God led Lehi’s family through the wilderness and across the great waters, the tender mercies He showed to Enos when his soul hungered for forgiveness, or the mercy He showed to Alma, a bitter enemy of the Church who became one of its fearless defenders. Or your thoughts might turn to the mercy the resurrected Savior showed the people when He healed their sick and blessed their little children. Perhaps most importantly, all of this can remind you of “how merciful the Lord hath been” to you, for the Book of Mormon was written to invite each of us to receive God’s mercy—an invitation expressed simply in Moroni’s farewell words, “Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moroni 10:32).

The video of the week emphasizes Luke 2. Church leaders read the story of Jesus Christ’s birth in Luke chapter 2 and share their testimony.

This week, our Sacrament meeting will focus on Christmas through music and remarks. Elder Bednar has said, “In this special season of celebrating the birth of the babe in Bethlehem, may we always remember that Jesus Christ came into the world to be our Savior and Redeemer.”

The Temple and Family History focus for December is: Take a name to the temple from YOUR ACCOUNT.

§   Research how you are related

§   Study where they grew up – what was it like in the place they grew up

§   Pray for them by name

§   Express Gratitude 

§    For their heart to accept the covenant