12/23/10
12/8/10
Super Saturday Soup - January Soup
by Bisschop's
1 lb. ground beef
1 small onion chopped
6 cups water
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 tbsp Knorr bef instant stock mix (powdered in a can)
1 tsp basil
1 tsp parsley
1 tsp oregano
Brown beef and onion to crumble beef. Add remaning ingredients and cook until vegetables are tender. Taste and alter seasoning according to taste.
Variations:
1. Add cooked noodles before serving. (1 cup cooked)
2. Add leftover rice before serving.
3. Use stewing beef instead of ground beef. Simmer beef until tender before adding vegetables.
1 lb. ground beef
1 small onion chopped
6 cups water
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 tbsp Knorr bef instant stock mix (powdered in a can)
1 tsp basil
1 tsp parsley
1 tsp oregano
Brown beef and onion to crumble beef. Add remaning ingredients and cook until vegetables are tender. Taste and alter seasoning according to taste.
Variations:
1. Add cooked noodles before serving. (1 cup cooked)
2. Add leftover rice before serving.
3. Use stewing beef instead of ground beef. Simmer beef until tender before adding vegetables.
11/27/10
Super Saturday Soup - Cream of Cauliflower
Cream of Cauliflower Soup
This recipe came from the "Winning Recipes from The Taste of Home" cook book.
2 medium onions, chopped
2 medium carrots, grated
2 stalks of celery, sliced
2 minced garlic cloves
1/4 cup plus 6 Tablespoons butter, divided
1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped
5 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1 teaspoon of salt
pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
6 Tablespoons all purpose flour
1 cup milk
1/2 whipping cream (I have used whole milk instead)
1/4 cup sour cream
In a pot saute onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in 1/4 cup butter until tender. Add the cauliflower, broth, parsley, salt, pepper, basil and tarragon. Cover and simmer 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Meanwhile, in a sauce pan, melt the remaining butter. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually stir in the milk and whipping cream. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir into Soup mixture. Remove soup from heat and add 1/4 sour cream before serving.
This recipe came from the "Winning Recipes from The Taste of Home" cook book.
2 medium onions, chopped
2 medium carrots, grated
2 stalks of celery, sliced
2 minced garlic cloves
1/4 cup plus 6 Tablespoons butter, divided
1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped
5 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1 teaspoon of salt
pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
6 Tablespoons all purpose flour
1 cup milk
1/2 whipping cream (I have used whole milk instead)
1/4 cup sour cream
In a pot saute onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in 1/4 cup butter until tender. Add the cauliflower, broth, parsley, salt, pepper, basil and tarragon. Cover and simmer 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Meanwhile, in a sauce pan, melt the remaining butter. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually stir in the milk and whipping cream. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir into Soup mixture. Remove soup from heat and add 1/4 sour cream before serving.
11/23/10
2 Hour Buns from Super Saturday
Makes 3 dozen buns
4 cups flour
2 Tbsp. yeast
1 tsp. salt
8 Tbsp. sugar
Mix these all together in a big bowl, then add wet ingredients:
6 Tbsp. oil
3 cups really warm water
2 eggs
Mix together really well and then add more flour (approx. 3-4 cups)
Add flour until the dough is no longer wet and sticky and you can knead it without it sticking to your hands really bad.
Knead the dough for about 5 mins. or until you make it nice and round. Let it rise in a floured bowl for 15 mins. Punch down the dough and let rise again for 15 mins.
Make into buns and let rise for about 1 hour. Bake at 350 for 15-20 mins
4 cups flour
2 Tbsp. yeast
1 tsp. salt
8 Tbsp. sugar
Mix these all together in a big bowl, then add wet ingredients:
6 Tbsp. oil
3 cups really warm water
2 eggs
Mix together really well and then add more flour (approx. 3-4 cups)
Add flour until the dough is no longer wet and sticky and you can knead it without it sticking to your hands really bad.
Knead the dough for about 5 mins. or until you make it nice and round. Let it rise in a floured bowl for 15 mins. Punch down the dough and let rise again for 15 mins.
Make into buns and let rise for about 1 hour. Bake at 350 for 15-20 mins
11/21/10
Super Saturday Soups
A big thank you to all who came out or helped out with our Super Saturday! It really was a SUPER day! Stay tuned for the recipes of soups that were served!
10/5/10
Sew with Sue
As Relief Society Sisters we share responsibility of caring for the temporal needs of our families. We live in a world that has become expensive and often times is a strain on our pocket book. There are many reasons for us to look back to basic skills such as sewing that helps support ourselves and our families. We want to share with you an opportunity to further your sewing skills in a number of ways. Sue Secretan is offering instruction for easy, inexpensive sewing projects that will help build confidence and further your skills that will in turn help meet the temporal needs of your family. This can be done in a variety of ways no matter what your skill level is. There will be help on basic mending, altering current clothing, small inexpensive gifts ideas, or maybe you just need another hand and ear to assist on a current project you are working on. This opportunity can be offered as group sessions or on an individual basis either in Sue’s home or at the Church. If you don’t have your own sewing machine the Heritage Ward Relief Society owns two that may be used at the church and Sue has two extra machines that can be used in her home. If you would like to take advantage of this fun learning opportunity call Sue at home.
9/29/10
Fabric Donations
Next wednesday (October 6), our Achievement Days girls (8-11 year olds) are making baby blankets as a service project. They are looking for donations of new baby print fabric (flannelette or fleece) 1 meter square or larger. Please contact Mandy Hubbard if you have some you are able to donate. Thank you!
9/26/10
General Relief Society Meeting
To watch the entire General Relief Society Meeting broadcast, click here.
To watch highlights from the General Relief Society Meeting broadcast, click here.
For downloadable text, audio and video of the talks from the General Relief Society Meeting broadcast, click here.
To watch highlights from the General Relief Society Meeting broadcast, click here.
For downloadable text, audio and video of the talks from the General Relief Society Meeting broadcast, click here.
9/19/10
Super Saturday - Nov 20th
Our SUPER SATURDAY will begin at 9am and continue throughout the day until you finish (sometime before supper!) A delicious soup and bun lunch will be served at noon followed by dessert. Feel free to invite friends and neighbours to this fun activity!!! If you want to sign up but can't get to those sign up sheets at the table, send an e-mail to Tell us your name and specify what you want and we will make sure you get signed up!
** Super Saturday Display Table and Sign-up sheets will be set up every Sunday outside the Relief Society Room until November 7th which will be the last day to signup/pay before the Big Day!**
There will be a quilt set up for those who want to help work on that. It will be donated to Woods Homes.
BUN MAKING CLASS - We are starting off the day with a bun making class. No machine, no mixer. Learn to make buns from scratch! This is a free class. We plan to get the buns baked and ready to serve with our soup lunch. It will be delicious!
LEARN TO CROCHET - We will be offering a class during Super Saturday on Crocheting. Sign up to get a free kit (limit 1, each additional kit is $4) containing a crochet hook and enough cotton yarn to make one dishcloth. Feel free to bring your own yarn and crochet with us if you already know how!
DIAPER CHANGE PAD - Sew a diaper holder / change pad. Washable fabric has a pocket in one end to hold diapers/wipes. Elastic closure. Bring your sewing machine if you have one! Fabric selection may vary from display sample. (does not include contents) $6 per kit.
TRAVEL KIT / FIRST AID KIT - The possibilities are endless with this compact travel holder. Turn it into a first aid kit, make-up kit, crayon holder, etc. Bow-tie closure. Sews up easy! Bring your sewing machine if you have one. Fabric selection may vary from display sample. (does not include contents) $3 per kit.
APPLIQUE ONESIE OR T-SHIRT - Choice of two sizes: 12 month onesie, or 2T t-shirt. Fabric selection may vary from display sample. There is some sewing involved. Bring your sewing machine if you have one! $5 per shirt.
BEAD ORNAMENTS - One kit of beads makes 3 ornaments. Three color choices: red, white or blue. Beads may vary from display sample. $5 for 3 ornaments.
CHRISTMAS CARDS - Make a set of 4 Christmas Cards. $5 for 4 cards.
CHRISTMAS ADVENT STORYBOOK - Pre-finished book contains a story, song, scripture and activity for each day in December up to Christmas. $8
SNOWMAN PAINT CAN - Transform a plain (clean/new) paint can into an adorable snowman with earmuffs. Stuff it with treats to give away! $7 per can
CHOCOLATE DIPPED SPOONS WITH HOT CHOCOLATE MIX - Kit includes two plastic spoons you dip in chocolate, with a packet of hot chocolate mix, chocolate chips, and marshmallows, with cute instruction tag. Great gift for friends, neighbours and teachers! $4 per kit.
PHOTO/PAPER GLASS BEAD MAGNETS - Make as few or as many as you'd like. You are responsible for bringing your own photographs or paper if you want something specific. Glass bead, ceramic magnet and glue are supplied. Hole puncher will be made available to use to get those circles cut out neatly! The possibilities of what to magnify behind the bead are endless. Photos, magazine cutouts, scrapbook paper, old maps, sheets of music, etc. Use your imagination with this! Anything works! A limited selection of paper will be available. Great simple gift for family and teachers! $0.15 each.
TEMPLE / BELIEVE WOOD CRAFT - Stained wood with vinyl lettering. Temple block comes with Alberta Temple drawing and ribbon. Believe block includes paper and star. $10 each.
SINGING SNOWMAN - Paint three cute snowman singing with fabric scarves. Lettering is stamped. $13
ENDLESS EXPRESSIONS BLOCKS - These are a fun set of 22 1.5" blocks. They have letters on 4 sides of the blocks, one side blank. 2 Blocks will have festive designs (flower, tree, star, heart, pumpkin, leaf). $13 for set.
You can mix them around and spell hundres of words/phrases, seasons, months, etc. including:
Welcome Friends We are Blessed All You Need is Love
Be Grateful Be Smart Be Clean Be True
Be Humble Be Prayerful Good Morning Have No Regrets
Merry Christmas Happy Halloween Happy Easter
Cute as a Button Seasons Greetings Ask Seek Knock
Faith Hope Charity Eternal Family The Best Two Years
Return With Honor Pray Always Quiet Please
Choose The Right Be Thou Humble Aways and Forever
Follow the Prophet God is Love I Love You Be Beautiful
Spread Your Wings Be Kind True Beauty Have Courage
Spring Fever Warm Winter Wishes We Give Thanks
******** ALL PRICES ARE APPROXIMATE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE. ONCE WE GET NUMBERS OF QUANTITIES TO ORDER FOR EACH CRAFT. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED OF ANY PRICE CHANGE ************
9/7/10
Family is Central
"The family is the primary support structure in God’s plan to help us resist evil, overcome weakness, and work out our salvation. For this reason we should do all we can to strengthen the family in these days of confusion and opposition." Ensign, Dec 2004, 50–51
Improving family relationships is vital to strengthening the family. You are invited to attend a special evening with the Heritage Ward Relief Society on Thursday, September 23rd at the LWSC. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm. After dinner, guest speakers President Richard Low and his wife, Sister Gayle Low, will be giving us information on improving our family relationships. Light refreshments will follow.
Please be sure to let your visiting teaching sisters know about this special event, and feel free to invite a friend or neighbor.
Improving family relationships is vital to strengthening the family. You are invited to attend a special evening with the Heritage Ward Relief Society on Thursday, September 23rd at the LWSC. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm. After dinner, guest speakers President Richard Low and his wife, Sister Gayle Low, will be giving us information on improving our family relationships. Light refreshments will follow.
Please be sure to let your visiting teaching sisters know about this special event, and feel free to invite a friend or neighbor.
9/1/10
Stove-top in your Crock-pot!
Here is a little more information on using your stove-top or oven recipes in your crock-pot.
Crock-pot cooking is ONE STEP cooking. Many steps in your stove-top or oven recipe may be deleted. Simply add ingredients to the crock-pot at one time and cook usually 5-6 hours on high, or 8-10 hours on low.
Because little moisture evaporates during slow cooking, reduce amount of liquid in your recipe by one-half. For soup recipes, add all ingredients except water or brother to pot; add only enough liquid to cover the ingredients.
Reduce amount of seasoning in proportion with reduced amount of liquid. Use whole or leaf herbs and spices rather than crushed or ground forms.
Less tender, less expensive cuts of meat are better suited to slow cooking than expensive cuts of meat. Fatty meats such as pork should be trimmed or browned to remove excess fat before slow cooking.
Because milk, sour or sweet cream break down during long hours of cooking, add these ingredients just before you serve.
To keep vegetables extra moist when roasting on low try wrapping them in foil.
Have a comment to share? Please post it below!
Crock-pot cooking is ONE STEP cooking. Many steps in your stove-top or oven recipe may be deleted. Simply add ingredients to the crock-pot at one time and cook usually 5-6 hours on high, or 8-10 hours on low.
Because little moisture evaporates during slow cooking, reduce amount of liquid in your recipe by one-half. For soup recipes, add all ingredients except water or brother to pot; add only enough liquid to cover the ingredients.
Reduce amount of seasoning in proportion with reduced amount of liquid. Use whole or leaf herbs and spices rather than crushed or ground forms.
Less tender, less expensive cuts of meat are better suited to slow cooking than expensive cuts of meat. Fatty meats such as pork should be trimmed or browned to remove excess fat before slow cooking.
Because milk, sour or sweet cream break down during long hours of cooking, add these ingredients just before you serve.
To keep vegetables extra moist when roasting on low try wrapping them in foil.
Have a comment to share? Please post it below!
8/25/10
Crockpot Cookery
Did you know, many of your favorite oven and range-top recipes can be adapted to slow cooking with a few minor changes.
If recipe says: Cook in Crockpot:
15 - 30 minutes 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 hours on high or 4 - 8 hours on low *
35 - 45 minutes 3 - 4 hours on high or 6 - 10 hours on low *
50 minutes - 3 hours 4 - 6 hours on high or 8 - 18 hours on low *
* Most uncooked meat and vegetable combinations will require at least 8 hours on low.
Keep posted for information regarding amounts of liquids and seasonings; slow cooking vegetables and meats, rice and pasta; milk, creams and cheese. If you have something you would like to share, please leave a comment below!
If recipe says: Cook in Crockpot:
15 - 30 minutes 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 hours on high or 4 - 8 hours on low *
35 - 45 minutes 3 - 4 hours on high or 6 - 10 hours on low *
50 minutes - 3 hours 4 - 6 hours on high or 8 - 18 hours on low *
* Most uncooked meat and vegetable combinations will require at least 8 hours on low.
Keep posted for information regarding amounts of liquids and seasonings; slow cooking vegetables and meats, rice and pasta; milk, creams and cheese. If you have something you would like to share, please leave a comment below!
8/20/10
Ward Cornbust
Reminder about the Ward Cornbust coming up on Tuesday, August 31 at Pavan Park starting at 5pm.
BBQ dinner provided, please bring a side dish or dessert to share.
BBQ dinner provided, please bring a side dish or dessert to share.
8/4/10
Notice
Someone is moving and is giving away a couple items - FREE!
Yamaha B5 or B6 Electric organ
Double Keyboard. Works well but names of notes have been marked on keys.
A few circle watermarks on wood.
and an Extremely well used bedroom set.
Phone Gill Smith at 394-1029 by Aug 11 if interested in either of these items.
Yamaha B5 or B6 Electric organ
Double Keyboard. Works well but names of notes have been marked on keys.
A few circle watermarks on wood.
and an Extremely well used bedroom set.
Phone Gill Smith at 394-1029 by Aug 11 if interested in either of these items.
7/16/10
Recipes
Our Summer weekday Relief Society meeting was enjoyed by all who attended. The weather was perfect. Thank you to all who came out! Here are a couple recipes for some of the refreshments that were served:
Slow Cooker Fruit Salsa
1 can mandarin oranges
1 can peaches, chopped
1 can pineapple tidbits
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp cornstarch
4 tsp vinegar
1. Combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on high 2 hours,
stirring occasionally.
Angel Lush Cupcakes (KRAFT recipe)
1 pkg. (16 oz.) angel food cake mix
1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
2 cans (8 oz. each) DOLE Crushed Pineapple in Juice, undrained
1 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
2 cups assorted fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries and sliced strawberries)
1. Heat oven to 375ºF.
2. Prepare cake batter as directed on package; pour into 30 paper-lined muffin cups, filling each cup 2/3 full. Bake 12 to 15 min. or until tops are golden brown and cracks feel dry. (Note: If baking in batches, refrigerate remaining batter in bowl until ready to pour into lined muffin cups and bake.) Cool cupcakes in pans 10 min.; remove to wire racks. Cool completely.
3. Mix dry pudding mix and pineapple in medium bowl. Gently stir in COOL WHIP; spread onto cupcakes.
4. Top with berries.
Slow Cooker Fruit Salsa
1 can mandarin oranges
1 can peaches, chopped
1 can pineapple tidbits
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp cornstarch
4 tsp vinegar
1. Combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on high 2 hours,
stirring occasionally.
Angel Lush Cupcakes (KRAFT recipe)
1 pkg. (16 oz.) angel food cake mix
1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
2 cans (8 oz. each) DOLE Crushed Pineapple in Juice, undrained
1 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
2 cups assorted fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries and sliced strawberries)
1. Heat oven to 375ºF.
2. Prepare cake batter as directed on package; pour into 30 paper-lined muffin cups, filling each cup 2/3 full. Bake 12 to 15 min. or until tops are golden brown and cracks feel dry. (Note: If baking in batches, refrigerate remaining batter in bowl until ready to pour into lined muffin cups and bake.) Cool cupcakes in pans 10 min.; remove to wire racks. Cool completely.
3. Mix dry pudding mix and pineapple in medium bowl. Gently stir in COOL WHIP; spread onto cupcakes.
4. Top with berries.
7/2/10
Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God
More "Mormon Messages" can be found on the YouTube Mormon Messages Channel
The text version of the entire talk can be found in the May 1997 Ensign, "Because She Is A Mother" by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.
6/21/10
Super Saturday
If you have any ideas for projects or crafts you would like for Super Saturday this year, please comment below or e-mail to leth.heritagers at gmail.com
5/30/10
Harbour House
The YWCA Lethbridge & District is a charitable organization that relies on the support of the community. Harbour House is one of their programs helping our community.
There will be a box set up during Sunday Relief Society Meeting and our Relief Society Weekday Meeting to collect donations of items from the following list, which details high need items required by the YWCA Harbour House Women’s Emergency Shelter. At a future date they will be delivered to Harbour House. (To download the list in PDF format, please click here. Filename is wish-list-2007.pdf)
If you feel you can donate, please do so. Not all of these items must be new. You may have some of these things around the house not being used -- feel free to bring them in for donation. Thank you for your generosity!
Other Items for donation include:
FOR THE CHILDREN Games Sweatshirts Coloring books Cars/trucks Dolls Lego Crayons/Markers Mittens/hats/ scarves Jewelry kits Arts & Crafts Craft Supplies Books Children’s movies Board Games Socks/underwear Hair Accessories Stickers Building Sets Clothing Sleepwear Extra batteries for toys Puzzles Kids hygiene
FOR THE TEENAGERS Watches Books Electronic games Extra batteries Puzzles Sweatshirts/t-shirts Clothing Pocket radio/cassette Curling irons Blow dryers Purses Board games Perfume/cologne Nail care products Sporting event passes Sleepwear Bath products Jewelry Socks/underwear Gloves/scarves/hats Camera (Disposable) Movies Cassettes/CD’s (gift certificates)
FOR MOM Curling irons Blow-dryers Perfume/cologne Socks Cosmetic bags Mitts/scarves/hats Sleepwear Slippers Sweatshirts/t-shirts Underwear (new) Journals Candles Watches Deodorant Toothpaste Alarm clocks Camera (disposable) Feminine hygiene products Nail care products
HYGIENE & OTHER SUPPLIES Gift certificates Umbrella strollers Tickets/passes to family events Shampoo/ conditioner Medical supplies (band aids etc) Twin quilts/sheets/pillows/blankets Bus tickets Safeway Gift Certificates Disposable Diapers TV/VCR/DVD
There will be a box set up during Sunday Relief Society Meeting and our Relief Society Weekday Meeting to collect donations of items from the following list, which details high need items required by the YWCA Harbour House Women’s Emergency Shelter. At a future date they will be delivered to Harbour House. (To download the list in PDF format, please click here. Filename is wish-list-2007.pdf)
If you feel you can donate, please do so. Not all of these items must be new. You may have some of these things around the house not being used -- feel free to bring them in for donation. Thank you for your generosity!
Wish List - high need items
Activity passes (movies, etc.)
Alarm clocks
Antibiotic ointment
Bus tickets
Children’s toothbrushes
Clothing (tops, pants and pajamas 3-16 yrs)
Craft supplies
Deodorant (new)
Flashlights
Gift certificates (grocery, Walmart. Etc.)
Herbal teas (decaffeinated)
Journals (blank)
Linen and towels
Pens and highlighters
Pillows (new)
Shampoo/conditioner (new)
Socks and slippers (male & female)
Toothpaste (new)
Umbrella strollers
Underwear (new; all ages and sizes)
Winter coats (women’s, men’s and children’s)
Food Supplies
Breakfast cereals
Canned fruit
Canned vegetables
Cheese whiz
Juice
Pasta and Rice
Peanut butter
Spaghetti sauce
Tomato sauce
General items
Baby lotions and creams
Batteries
Can openers
Crayons & children’s markers
Day timers & pocket-size calendars
Dishes, pots and utensils (no knives please)
Flashlights
Foam poster board, construction paper and poster paper
Bathroom supplies
Self care items and gift baskets
Small kitchen appliances
Baby wipes
Cell phones
Office Supplies
Paper
Paper clips
Pens and highlighters
Sticky notes
Out reach
Apache tear stones
Art paper
Cookies for groups
Craft supplies (including beading supplies)
Crayons and acrylics
Doctor kits
Finger paints
Glue sticks
Multicultural baby dolls
Play food
Health Supplies
Antibiotic ointment
Calamine/Vicks
Cold packs
Tensors
Thermometers (digital)
Bandaids
Other Items for donation include:
FOR THE CHILDREN Games Sweatshirts Coloring books Cars/trucks Dolls Lego Crayons/Markers Mittens/hats/ scarves Jewelry kits Arts & Crafts Craft Supplies Books Children’s movies Board Games Socks/underwear Hair Accessories Stickers Building Sets Clothing Sleepwear Extra batteries for toys Puzzles Kids hygiene
FOR THE TEENAGERS Watches Books Electronic games Extra batteries Puzzles Sweatshirts/t-shirts Clothing Pocket radio/cassette Curling irons Blow dryers Purses Board games Perfume/cologne Nail care products Sporting event passes Sleepwear Bath products Jewelry Socks/underwear Gloves/scarves/hats Camera (Disposable) Movies Cassettes/CD’s (gift certificates)
FOR MOM Curling irons Blow-dryers Perfume/cologne Socks Cosmetic bags Mitts/scarves/hats Sleepwear Slippers Sweatshirts/t-shirts Underwear (new) Journals Candles Watches Deodorant Toothpaste Alarm clocks Camera (disposable) Feminine hygiene products Nail care products
HYGIENE & OTHER SUPPLIES Gift certificates Umbrella strollers Tickets/passes to family events Shampoo/ conditioner Medical supplies (band aids etc) Twin quilts/sheets/pillows/blankets Bus tickets Safeway Gift Certificates Disposable Diapers TV/VCR/DVD
5/26/10
5/25/10
5/17/10
Pancakes Anyone?!
Heritage Ward Pancake Breakfast will be held in the South parking lot of our church building on Saturday, June 19 from 8:30 am - 10 am. Be sure to mark this on your calendar as it is only a month away!!!
Also, a quick reminder about our Relief Society Meeting "Back to Basics" this Thursday, May 20 at 7pm at the church, dress is casual. Bring a sister, friend or neighbor !
Also, a quick reminder about our Relief Society Meeting "Back to Basics" this Thursday, May 20 at 7pm at the church, dress is casual. Bring a sister, friend or neighbor !
5/8/10
4/28/10
May Relief Society Meeting
Our Relief Society meeting for May will be on May 20th starting at 7pm. Dress is casual and you are encouraged to bring a friend or neighbor! Refreshments will also be served. Give your visiting teaching sisters a call and make sure they know about the meeting.
"The Lord’s plan for Church members to be self-reliant is simple. It is that we do our best to provide for our personal and family needs by developing good work habits; being thrifty; gathering a home supply of items necessary to sustain us for at least one year; planning for our future needs; and maintaining physical, spiritual, emotional, and social health. Self-reliance begins at home, with the individual and the family." The Latter-day Saint Woman: Basic Manual for Women, Part B, "Developing Self-Reliance"
During our May meeting, we will be given ideas on making healthy and economical meal plans, "Meal planning on a budget". Ideas such as: Simplify food preparation by planning ahead; prepare bigger meals at dinner-time, and use the leftovers for lunch the next day; create an attainable monthly or weekly dinner menu for your family and stick with it! When doing these menu's, take into consideration those busy nights of meetings and youth activities. Buy in bulk on products you use most, or products with a longer shelf life.
We will be shown demonstrations on how to make our own cleaners, soaps, laundry detergents, etc. Just like growing your own garden produces healthier produce, making your own cleaning supplies will make a healthier, (and cheaper) cleaner home. You may find that the cleaner you make will work better than the product you pay a higher price for at the store!
Excited and want to learn more?! Come to the church on May 20th at 7pm!
There will also be tables set up for a Clothing Exchange. You are invited to bring in any gently used or out-grown clothing for ALL ages, male and female. Browse through the donated clothes and take home what you and your family will use. This is a great time to clean out the closet!
NOTE: Go to your calendar and mark "Relief Society Meeting 7pm" on the 3rd Thursday of every month to be sure be available to come. The majority of our meetings for the year will be on this day, and we need YOU to come learn and grow with us.
"The Lord’s plan for Church members to be self-reliant is simple. It is that we do our best to provide for our personal and family needs by developing good work habits; being thrifty; gathering a home supply of items necessary to sustain us for at least one year; planning for our future needs; and maintaining physical, spiritual, emotional, and social health. Self-reliance begins at home, with the individual and the family." The Latter-day Saint Woman: Basic Manual for Women, Part B, "Developing Self-Reliance"
During our May meeting, we will be given ideas on making healthy and economical meal plans, "Meal planning on a budget". Ideas such as: Simplify food preparation by planning ahead; prepare bigger meals at dinner-time, and use the leftovers for lunch the next day; create an attainable monthly or weekly dinner menu for your family and stick with it! When doing these menu's, take into consideration those busy nights of meetings and youth activities. Buy in bulk on products you use most, or products with a longer shelf life.
We will be shown demonstrations on how to make our own cleaners, soaps, laundry detergents, etc. Just like growing your own garden produces healthier produce, making your own cleaning supplies will make a healthier, (and cheaper) cleaner home. You may find that the cleaner you make will work better than the product you pay a higher price for at the store!
Excited and want to learn more?! Come to the church on May 20th at 7pm!
There will also be tables set up for a Clothing Exchange. You are invited to bring in any gently used or out-grown clothing for ALL ages, male and female. Browse through the donated clothes and take home what you and your family will use. This is a great time to clean out the closet!
NOTE: Go to your calendar and mark "Relief Society Meeting 7pm" on the 3rd Thursday of every month to be sure be available to come. The majority of our meetings for the year will be on this day, and we need YOU to come learn and grow with us.
4/26/10
Seek the Higher Ground
Learn how to find safety from life's temporal and spiritual storms by following the Savior's example and seeking higher spiritual ground.
Click here to read the entire talk.
Click here to read the entire talk.
4/14/10
Temple Trip CANCELLED
Our Temple trip scheduled for today is CANCELLED due to the weather and poor road conditions.
4/8/10
For Your April Calendar
A couple of items to mark on your calendar for next week:
Wednesday, April 14 is our Relief Society Temple Trip. We are to meet at the church at 5:45pm to carpool for the 7 o'clock session. Be sure to bring your recommend. This is our April Relief Society Meeting, please come!
Thursday, April 15, 8pm is the annual Lethbridge Institute Choir Spring Concert at the Lethbridge Stake Center (on Scenic Drive). The event is free to attend and everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, April 14 is our Relief Society Temple Trip. We are to meet at the church at 5:45pm to carpool for the 7 o'clock session. Be sure to bring your recommend. This is our April Relief Society Meeting, please come!
Thursday, April 15, 8pm is the annual Lethbridge Institute Choir Spring Concert at the Lethbridge Stake Center (on Scenic Drive). The event is free to attend and everyone is welcome.
4/7/10
180th Annual General Conference
General conference was held on Saturday and Sunday, April 3-4, 2010. Audio and video archives of the conference are available. Online text of the conference will be available Thursday. We are invited to explore the new General Conference beta page, where you will also find audio and video archives.
CLICK HERE to Go to the TALKS Download page at lds.org.
CLICK HERE to Go to the MUSIC Download page at lds.org.
CLICK HERE To explore the new General Conference BETA page.
Did you have a favorite conference talk or message?
CLICK HERE to Go to the TALKS Download page at lds.org.
CLICK HERE to Go to the MUSIC Download page at lds.org.
CLICK HERE To explore the new General Conference BETA page.
Did you have a favorite conference talk or message?
3/10/10
Freezer Meals Swap
Freezer meal swap for March we will be meeting on Friday the 12th at 10:30am. Please contact Arlene Cook if you want to join the group.
Freezer meals swapped in February:
Lasagna.
Chicken pot pie, pie crust.
Lemon Herb whole roasting chicken.
Red bean vegetarian lasagna.
Maple syrup salmon.
Meatloaf, including veggies, and rice.
Easy chicken pot pie, stuffing crust.
Everything was really delicious! What great cooks! My kids are eating better then ever. This group is so helpful with the busy lives we all lead. Thanks so much ladies.
- Arlene Cook
Freezer meals swapped in February:
Lasagna.
Chicken pot pie, pie crust.
Lemon Herb whole roasting chicken.
Red bean vegetarian lasagna.
Maple syrup salmon.
Meatloaf, including veggies, and rice.
Easy chicken pot pie, stuffing crust.
Everything was really delicious! What great cooks! My kids are eating better then ever. This group is so helpful with the busy lives we all lead. Thanks so much ladies.
- Arlene Cook
3/9/10
17 March 1842
Thursday, March 18th beginning at 6:30p.m. is our annual Relief Society Meeting celebrating the organization's 168 years. Be sure to mark this day on your calendar as it will be a excellent evening with a delicious supper and inspiring program.
"Latter-day Saint women were blessed with a new Church organization during the Nauvoo era. It had its inception when several women, led by Sarah M. Kimball, organized to make shirts for the men working on the temple. They drafted a plan of government typical of women’s groups at that time, but when Joseph Smith was consulted, he offered to organize the women after the same pattern as the priesthood.
"On Thursday afternoon, 17 March 1842 in Nauvoo the Prophet, in company with John Taylor and Willard Richards, formally organized the eighteen women present into a society. Joseph Smith stated, “The Church was never perfectly organized until the women were thus organized. Emma Smith was called to be the first president with Sarah M. Cleveland and Elizabeth Ann Whitney as counselors and Eliza R. Snow as secretary." (Church History in the Fullness of Times p. 248)
The following are excerpts from an article from the May 1992 Ensign titled "The Relief Society and the Church" by Elder Dallin H. Oaks
At the first meeting, President Emma Smith said, “Each member should be ambitious to do good.” (Minutes of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo, 17 Mar. 1842, p. 13)
In his first formal instruction to the newly founded organization, the Prophet said he was “deeply interested that [the Relief Society] might be built up to the Most High in an acceptable manner.” He taught that “when instructed we must obey that voice … that the blessings of heaven may rest down upon us—all must act in concert or nothing can be done—that the Society should move according to the ancient Priesthood.” (Minutes, 30 Mar. 1842, p. 22.)
The next time he met with the Relief Society, Joseph Smith “exhorted the sisters always to concentrate their faith and prayers for, and place confidence in those whom God has appointed to honor, whom God has placed at the head to lead.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842, p. 37.)
At this same meeting, the Prophet spoke the words that President Gordon B. Hinckley recently characterized as “a charter … of the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (Ensign, Mar. 1992, p. 4):
This Society is to get instruction thro’ the order which God has established—thro’ the medium of those appointed to lead.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842.)
Here the Prophet declared that the Relief Society was to receive instruction and direction from the priesthood leaders who presided over their activities. Like the quorums of priesthood holders in the Church, the Relief Society was to be self-governing, but it was not to be an independent organization. It was an integral part of the Church, not a separate church for women.
The Prophet continued, “I now turn the key to you in the name of God and this Society shall rejoice and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time—this is the beginning of better days to this Society.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842, p. 40.)
When he “turn[ed] the key,” the Prophet Joseph Smith made the Relief Society an official part of the Church and kingdom of God. This opened to women new opportunities for receiving knowledge and intelligence from on high, such as through the temple ordinances that were soon to be instituted. Similarly, as the Prophet promised them in connection with their charitable service, “If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842, p. 38.)
To watch a special three minute video commemorating our worldwide sisterhood, "Relief Society - An Enduring Legay", visit lds.org or click here: http://www.lds.org/pa/rs/home/rsvideo.html?xml=rsvideo_8911.xml
"Latter-day Saint women were blessed with a new Church organization during the Nauvoo era. It had its inception when several women, led by Sarah M. Kimball, organized to make shirts for the men working on the temple. They drafted a plan of government typical of women’s groups at that time, but when Joseph Smith was consulted, he offered to organize the women after the same pattern as the priesthood.
"On Thursday afternoon, 17 March 1842 in Nauvoo the Prophet, in company with John Taylor and Willard Richards, formally organized the eighteen women present into a society. Joseph Smith stated, “The Church was never perfectly organized until the women were thus organized. Emma Smith was called to be the first president with Sarah M. Cleveland and Elizabeth Ann Whitney as counselors and Eliza R. Snow as secretary." (Church History in the Fullness of Times p. 248)
The following are excerpts from an article from the May 1992 Ensign titled "The Relief Society and the Church" by Elder Dallin H. Oaks
At the first meeting, President Emma Smith said, “Each member should be ambitious to do good.” (Minutes of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo, 17 Mar. 1842, p. 13)
In his first formal instruction to the newly founded organization, the Prophet said he was “deeply interested that [the Relief Society] might be built up to the Most High in an acceptable manner.” He taught that “when instructed we must obey that voice … that the blessings of heaven may rest down upon us—all must act in concert or nothing can be done—that the Society should move according to the ancient Priesthood.” (Minutes, 30 Mar. 1842, p. 22.)
The next time he met with the Relief Society, Joseph Smith “exhorted the sisters always to concentrate their faith and prayers for, and place confidence in those whom God has appointed to honor, whom God has placed at the head to lead.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842, p. 37.)
At this same meeting, the Prophet spoke the words that President Gordon B. Hinckley recently characterized as “a charter … of the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (Ensign, Mar. 1992, p. 4):
This Society is to get instruction thro’ the order which God has established—thro’ the medium of those appointed to lead.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842.)
Here the Prophet declared that the Relief Society was to receive instruction and direction from the priesthood leaders who presided over their activities. Like the quorums of priesthood holders in the Church, the Relief Society was to be self-governing, but it was not to be an independent organization. It was an integral part of the Church, not a separate church for women.
The Prophet continued, “I now turn the key to you in the name of God and this Society shall rejoice and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time—this is the beginning of better days to this Society.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842, p. 40.)
When he “turn[ed] the key,” the Prophet Joseph Smith made the Relief Society an official part of the Church and kingdom of God. This opened to women new opportunities for receiving knowledge and intelligence from on high, such as through the temple ordinances that were soon to be instituted. Similarly, as the Prophet promised them in connection with their charitable service, “If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.” (Minutes, 28 Apr. 1842, p. 38.)
To watch a special three minute video commemorating our worldwide sisterhood, "Relief Society - An Enduring Legay", visit lds.org or click here: http://www.lds.org/pa/rs/home/rsvideo.html?xml=rsvideo_8911.xml
2/18/10
Ward Games Night
Saturday, February 20th, from 7pm - 9pm is the Heritage Ward Adult Games Night (no children please). Please bring an appetizer to share. Meet at the Stake Center for a night of fun and games!
2/11/10
Meetings and Reminders
Tonight (February 11th) for our February Relief Society Meeting we are delivering homemade valentines and cookies, meeting at the church at 6:30pm. It will be a great evening of service. Have a Happy Valentines Day Sisters!
Sunday, March 7th we will have a Visiting Teaching Conference during Relief Society for all sisters. Also, a reminder to get your visiting teaching done and reported to your supervisor.
Sunday, March 14th Heritage Ward is joining with the Lethbridge West Stake for a special stake meeting starting at 10:00am. This is for the entire stake, men, women and children, in leu of our regularly scheduled Sunday meetings at 1pm. Be sure to come early for a good seat! And don't forget about daylight savings this day!
Thursday, March 18th is our annual Relief Society Meeting celebrating the organization's 168 years. Be sure to mark this day on your calendar as it will be a excellent evening with a delicious supper and inspiring program.
Sunday, March 7th we will have a Visiting Teaching Conference during Relief Society for all sisters. Also, a reminder to get your visiting teaching done and reported to your supervisor.
Sunday, March 14th Heritage Ward is joining with the Lethbridge West Stake for a special stake meeting starting at 10:00am. This is for the entire stake, men, women and children, in leu of our regularly scheduled Sunday meetings at 1pm. Be sure to come early for a good seat! And don't forget about daylight savings this day!
Thursday, March 18th is our annual Relief Society Meeting celebrating the organization's 168 years. Be sure to mark this day on your calendar as it will be a excellent evening with a delicious supper and inspiring program.
1/26/10
February Relief Society Meeting
The Relief Society Meeting for February will begin at the Stake Center on Thursday, February 11 at 6:30 p.m. There we will put together valentines and cookies to deliver to the residents of the West Highlands Assisted Living facility that same evening. Come and share your love!
The majority of our monthly Relief Society Meetings will be held on the third thursday of the month. (February is an exception). Please take note and mark these days on your calendar to be sure you will be available to attend our monthly meetings.
The majority of our monthly Relief Society Meetings will be held on the third thursday of the month. (February is an exception). Please take note and mark these days on your calendar to be sure you will be available to attend our monthly meetings.
1/22/10
First Presidency Statement on Haiti
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued the following statement today:
"Our hearts are filled with sadness as we have watched the suffering in Haiti in the wake of the devastating earthquake. We turn to the example of Jesus Christ who reached out to “lift up the hands which hang down” and “strengthen the feeble knees.” We are keenly aware that many in America are dealing with economic challenges caused by the recession. However, we are appealing to members to donate to Church Humanitarian Services as their means allow in order to help our Haitian brothers and sisters. Many have already contributed and others are anxious to do so.
"Money is not the only need in Haiti. People are frightened, bewildered, and wholly uncertain about their future. In addition to what people can do in helping with food, water and shelter, there needs to be a calming influence over that troubled nation. We invite our people everywhere to supplicate God for a spirit of calm and peace among the people as urgent aid and reconstruction efforts continue."
For more of the Latest News Releases, Stories, and Other Links, visit the NEWSROOM - The Official Church Resource for News Media, Opinion Leaders and the Public by clicking here.
"Our hearts are filled with sadness as we have watched the suffering in Haiti in the wake of the devastating earthquake. We turn to the example of Jesus Christ who reached out to “lift up the hands which hang down” and “strengthen the feeble knees.” We are keenly aware that many in America are dealing with economic challenges caused by the recession. However, we are appealing to members to donate to Church Humanitarian Services as their means allow in order to help our Haitian brothers and sisters. Many have already contributed and others are anxious to do so.
"Money is not the only need in Haiti. People are frightened, bewildered, and wholly uncertain about their future. In addition to what people can do in helping with food, water and shelter, there needs to be a calming influence over that troubled nation. We invite our people everywhere to supplicate God for a spirit of calm and peace among the people as urgent aid and reconstruction efforts continue."
For more of the Latest News Releases, Stories, and Other Links, visit the NEWSROOM - The Official Church Resource for News Media, Opinion Leaders and the Public by clicking here.
The (slightly) Condensed Version
President David Koegler was the speaker for our Stake Relief Society Meeting titled "Be Fixed in Your Purpose". Following are notes taken from the evening:
“Everyone of us knows who he is and what God expects him to do.”
Tevye from Fiddler on the Roof.
Because of the gospel we have no question what is expected of us.
“The Lord loves each of us too much to merely let us go on being what we now are, for he knows what we have the possibility to become!”
- Elder Neil A. Maxwell
Knowledge of the gospel and love from our Heavenly Father can keep us from being discouraged.
Our purposes in life are to gain a body, learn of the Lord and follow Him, receive saving ordinances and covenants and help our Families do the same, and eventually return to our Heavenly Father.
“To fulfill the purpose of Relief Society, the Lord has commissioned each Relief Society sister and the organization as a whole to:
1. Increase in faith and personal righteousness.
2. Strengthen families and homes.
3. Serve the Lord and His children.”
- Sister Julie Beck, October 2008 General Conference
We are all individually unique in our backgrounds, personalities, trials. We are all at different stages in life, and have different talents and dreams.
We are also so very similar. We are all daughters of God with a divine destiny. We have all received our patriarchal blessing and are all future eternal queens. We all have a sisterhood in Relief Society and have all been tested physically and spiritually, subject to Satan’s influences. We were all willing to make and keep the covenants made at baptism and have a desire to be with our families together with our Heavenly Father.
“Be fixed in your purpose, for Satan will try you;
The weight of your calling he perfectly knows.
Your path may be thorny, but Jesus is nigh you;
His arm is sufficient, tho demons oppose.”
Staying fixed in your purpose is more than a matter of concentration. It is a individual daily spiritual battle with Satan.
“Satan is working overtime to attack the family. He tells us that marriage is not important, that children do not need a father and a mother, and that strong families are not important. He tells us that moral values are old-fashioned and silly. When challenges come, Satan tells us to abandon our beliefs and go with the ways of the world. He entices us with fame and fortune and tells us where to find the easy life. He attacks our faith in God and tries to discourage even the strongest and most loving families. Satan is delighted when we give in—even just a little.
“I was in the Tabernacle when President Gordon B. Hinckley first delivered the proclamation on the family at the general Relief Society meeting in September of 1995. That was a great occasion. I felt the significance of the message. I also found myself thinking, “This is a great guide for parents. It is also a big responsibility for parents.” I thought for a moment that it really didn’t pertain too much to me since I wasn’t married and didn’t have any children. But almost as quickly I thought,
“I am a single woman and do not have any children of my own. ……. But it does pertain to me. I am a member of a family. I am a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a niece, and a granddaughter. I do have responsibilities—and blessings—because I am a member of a family. Even if I were the only living member of my family, I am still a member of God’s family, and I have a responsibility to help strengthen other families.”
- Sister Barbara Thompson, 2007 October General Conference
Satan’s Goals are to lead us astray by disobedience, distraction from our purpose (look up the story of Nehemiah), and by discouragement. He uses the technique of deception to obscure the view of our progress
The Iron Rod vision:
- the mists of darkness teach us that even the righteous are challenged
- the murky river teaches us that there is great danger in being lukewarm
- the great and spacious building teaches us that some things are just an illusion and are not worth pursuing
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the proclamation on the family in the General Relief Society Meeting in 1995, saying:
"With so much of sophistry that is passed off as truth, with so much of deception concerning standards and values, with so much of allurement and enticement to take on the slow stain of the world, we have felt to warn and forewarn. In furtherance of this we of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles now issue a proclamation to the Church and to the world as a declaration and reaffirmation of standards, doctrines, and practices relative to the family which the prophets, seers, and revelators of this church have repeatedly stated throughout its history."
We should all have a copy of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” in with our scriptures.
Sophistry is subtly deceptive reasoning or argument. If Satan has us believe something “minor” is true, he will easily lead us away from the truth.
Satan’s effective tool is discouragement. He tries to convince us that marriage is not important, that children do not need a mother and father, that money is most important, that moral values don’t matter.
Satan’s premises are FALSE.
True Premises are the scriptures, the prophets and personal revelation
We need to rely on these “instruments” just as Lehi and Nephi did with the Liahona.
“Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit.
“What may appear initially to be a daunting task will be much easier to manage over time as you consistently strive to recognize and follow feelings prompted by the Spirit. Your confidence in the direction you receive from the Holy Ghost will also become stronger. I witness that as you gain experience and success in being guided by the Spirit, your confidence in the impressions you feel can become more certain than your dependence on what you see or hear.
“Easy things never produce much beneficial fruit. Neither our Father in Heaven nor His Holy Son take delight in seeing you struggle to overcome obstacles, resolve questions, or find solutions to complex and challenging problems. However, they do rejoice when you willingly recognize that these steps are steps to growth which lead to action that molds your character.”
- Elder Richard G Scott
Moses 6:61: Therefore it is given to abide in you; the record of heaven; the Comforter; the peaceable things of immortal glory; the truth of all things; that which quickeneth all things, which maketh alive all things; that which knoweth all things, and hath all power according to wisdom, mercy, truth, justice, and judgment.
The Holy Ghost helps us discern between good and evil. Following the Holy Ghost helps prevent distractions, helps us discern between needs and wants, necessities and non-necessities, helps us keep to the right path.
“Following the Brethren is, of course, a different challenge in a society that is sinking rapidly, such as was the case in Sodom and Gomorrah, as compared with following the prophets in a society where there is reasonable righteousness and reasonable happiness. Obedience is required in both settings, to be sure, but there is an intensification of the challenge presented to members of the Church in the one setting compared with the other somewhat more tranquil time and circumstance.”
- Elder Neil A. Maxwell
Moses instructed Joshua to go to Shechem teach Isreal the truth and how to choose.
Joshua 24:15: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
The attitude and behavior of the world can so easily be distorted or assimilated by us.
We need to choose:
- not to sin
- not to be distracted
- not to be discouraged
We need to be DOING. Teach. Teach the Gospel.
Isaiah 54:13: “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”
We need to have priorities.
“A wise man once distinguished between “the noble art of getting things done” and “a nobler art of leaving things undone.” True “wisdom in life,” he taught, consists of “the elimination of non-essentials” May I suggest that you periodically evaluate how you are doing in this area? What are the nonessential things that clutter your days and steal your time? What are the habits you may have developed that do not serve a useful purpose? What are the unfinished or unstarted things that could add vigor, meaning, and joy to your life?
“Sometimes we make the mistake of neglecting the essentials of life. The Savior had harsh words for the scribes and Pharisees of His day: “Woe unto you,” He told them, “for [you] have omitted the weightier matters of the law, [justice], mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done” (Matthew 23:23).
“Although the Savior’s words were directed to a specific audience thousands of years ago, they apply to us as well today.
“In modern revelation, the Lord has commanded, “Thou shalt not idle away thy time, neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known” (D&C 60:13). It is quite common to hear people and friends of ours say, “Where has the time gone?” or “If I only had more time.””
“Even though we may have wasted time yesterday, there is hope. There is a full day waiting for us today and tomorrow. However, if we continue to take our allotted time for granted, we may find ourselves like Elder Neal A. Maxwell put it: “Either we use time wisely or it uses us; either we manage tasks effectively, or we are pushed about and prodded by them”
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, BYU Speech
We need to distinguish between non-essentials:
Facebook to brag or gripe - adjustments may need to be made
Keeping up appearances
Wants vs needs
When you step into Cosco for a delicious carton of plump blueberries, you are bombarded with “wants”, the big screen TV, the hot tob, etc. We really need to be strong in distinguishing our needs vs. our wants.
“So how do we stay aligned with these weightier matters? Is there a constant compass that can help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions?
“Once again the Savior revealed the way. When asked to name the greatest commandment, He did not hesitate. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind,” He said. “This is the first and great commandment.” (Matthew 22:37, 38) Coupled with the second great commandment—to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39)—we have a compass that provides direction not only for our lives but also for the Lord’s Church on both sides of the veil.”
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, October 2009 General Conference
Oh, how we need to love God.
Real charity is not something you give away; it is something that you acquire and make a part of yourself. And when the virtue of charity becomes implanted in your heart, you are never the same again.
- Elder Marvin J Ashton, April 1992 General Conference
“This society is composed of women whose feelings of charity spring from hearts changed by qualifying for and by keeping covenants offered only in the Lord’s true Church. Their feelings of charity come from Him through His Atonement. Their acts of charity are guided by His example—and come out of gratitude for His infinite gift of mercy—and by the Holy Spirit, which He sends to accompany His servants on their missions of mercy. Because of that, they have done and are able to do uncommon things for others and to find joy even when their own unmet needs are great.”
- President Henry B. Eyring, 2009 General Relief Society Meeting
“[The Relief Society] will fly to the relief of the stranger; they will pour in oil and wine to the wounded heart of the distressed; they will dry up the tears of the orphan and make the widow’s heart to rejoice”
- Prophet Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:567
“If one member suffer all feel it; by union of feeling we obtain power with God”
- Prophet Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:23
“Service in the Relief Society magnifies and sanctifies each individual sister.”
President Boyd K Packer
“Accept responsibility in the Church, and trust in the Lord to make you equal to any call you may receive. Your example will set a pattern for your children. Reach out in love to those in distress and need."
- President Gordon B. Hinckley
“The errand of angels is given to women;
And this is a gift that, as sisters, we claim:
To do whatsoever is gentle and human,
To cheer and to bless in humanity’s name.”
- “As sisters in Zion” Hymn 309
Serving the Lord has an eternal impact on self, family and others.
“You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but you cant count the number of apples in a seed.”
You will never know the impact you may have on an other sister.
“Much of the major growth that is coming to the Church in the last days will come because many of the good women of the world (in whom there is often such an inner sense of spirituality) will be drawn to the Church in large numbers. This will happen to the degree that the women of the Church reflect righteousness and articulateness in their lives and to the degree that the women of the Church are seen as distinct and different—in happy ways—from the women of the world.
“Among the real heroines in the world who will come into the Church are women who are more concerned with being righteous than with being selfish. These real heroines have true humility, which places a higher value on integrity than on visibility. Remember, it is as wrong to do things just to be seen of women as it is to do things to be seen of men. Great women and men are always more anxious to serve than to have dominion.”
- President Spencer W Kimball.
Mosiah 4:27: “And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.
Alma 7:23: “And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.”
FIND BALANCE
Before you start your day, kneel down and ask the Lord his expectations of you.
Before you end your day, kneel down and review your day in prayer.
“You are no ordinary beings, my beloved young friends all around the world. You are glorious and eternal.”
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, BYU Fireside 2009
“Hold on a little Longer”
“The best is yet to come”
“You are the guardians of the hearth. You are the bearers of the children. You are they who nurture them and establish within them the habits of their lives. No other work reaches so close to divinity as does the nurturing of the sons and daughters of God. May you be strengthened for the challenges of the day. May you be endowed with wisdom beyond your own in dealing with the problems you constantly face. May your prayers and your pleadings be answered with blessings upon your heads and upon the heads of your loved ones. We leave with you our love and our blessing, that your lives may be filled with peace and gladness. It can be so. Many of you can testify that it has been so. The Lord bless you now and through the years to come, I humbly pray in the name of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.”
- President Gordon B. Hinckely, 1995 General Relief Society Meeting
“I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails.
I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp.
I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children.
I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden.
I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder.
I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived."
- Marjorie Pay Hinckley
Closing Song: “Miracles” by Sally DeFord, sung by YSA
Amid the countless blessings the Lord has given me
The light of truth and goodness; the Holy Spirit's peace
I see the many sorrows that his children must endure
So much hurt I long to heal. How can I change the world?
Chorus:
There are hands I cannot hold
Hearts I cannot comfort
Tears that only miracles can stay
So let me love and serve and teach
Those who come within my reach
For miracles begin that way
The Savior walked in Galilee, unknown in many lands
Yet touching every nation by the labors of his hands
Giving light to all the world by teaching but the few
He is my example in the work that I must do
I will bear the burden of my neighbor in his need
I will share my Savior's love in every kindly deed
He will magnify my efforts, and I'll understand at last
That by these small and simple things are great things brought to pass.
“Everyone of us knows who he is and what God expects him to do.”
Tevye from Fiddler on the Roof.
Because of the gospel we have no question what is expected of us.
“The Lord loves each of us too much to merely let us go on being what we now are, for he knows what we have the possibility to become!”
- Elder Neil A. Maxwell
Knowledge of the gospel and love from our Heavenly Father can keep us from being discouraged.
Our purposes in life are to gain a body, learn of the Lord and follow Him, receive saving ordinances and covenants and help our Families do the same, and eventually return to our Heavenly Father.
“To fulfill the purpose of Relief Society, the Lord has commissioned each Relief Society sister and the organization as a whole to:
1. Increase in faith and personal righteousness.
2. Strengthen families and homes.
3. Serve the Lord and His children.”
- Sister Julie Beck, October 2008 General Conference
We are all individually unique in our backgrounds, personalities, trials. We are all at different stages in life, and have different talents and dreams.
We are also so very similar. We are all daughters of God with a divine destiny. We have all received our patriarchal blessing and are all future eternal queens. We all have a sisterhood in Relief Society and have all been tested physically and spiritually, subject to Satan’s influences. We were all willing to make and keep the covenants made at baptism and have a desire to be with our families together with our Heavenly Father.
“Be fixed in your purpose, for Satan will try you;
The weight of your calling he perfectly knows.
Your path may be thorny, but Jesus is nigh you;
His arm is sufficient, tho demons oppose.”
“The Time is Far Spent”, Hymn 266 verse 4:
Staying fixed in your purpose is more than a matter of concentration. It is a individual daily spiritual battle with Satan.
“Satan is working overtime to attack the family. He tells us that marriage is not important, that children do not need a father and a mother, and that strong families are not important. He tells us that moral values are old-fashioned and silly. When challenges come, Satan tells us to abandon our beliefs and go with the ways of the world. He entices us with fame and fortune and tells us where to find the easy life. He attacks our faith in God and tries to discourage even the strongest and most loving families. Satan is delighted when we give in—even just a little.
“I was in the Tabernacle when President Gordon B. Hinckley first delivered the proclamation on the family at the general Relief Society meeting in September of 1995. That was a great occasion. I felt the significance of the message. I also found myself thinking, “This is a great guide for parents. It is also a big responsibility for parents.” I thought for a moment that it really didn’t pertain too much to me since I wasn’t married and didn’t have any children. But almost as quickly I thought,
“I am a single woman and do not have any children of my own. ……. But it does pertain to me. I am a member of a family. I am a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a niece, and a granddaughter. I do have responsibilities—and blessings—because I am a member of a family. Even if I were the only living member of my family, I am still a member of God’s family, and I have a responsibility to help strengthen other families.”
- Sister Barbara Thompson, 2007 October General Conference
Satan’s Goals are to lead us astray by disobedience, distraction from our purpose (look up the story of Nehemiah), and by discouragement. He uses the technique of deception to obscure the view of our progress
The Iron Rod vision:
- the mists of darkness teach us that even the righteous are challenged
- the murky river teaches us that there is great danger in being lukewarm
- the great and spacious building teaches us that some things are just an illusion and are not worth pursuing
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the proclamation on the family in the General Relief Society Meeting in 1995, saying:
"With so much of sophistry that is passed off as truth, with so much of deception concerning standards and values, with so much of allurement and enticement to take on the slow stain of the world, we have felt to warn and forewarn. In furtherance of this we of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles now issue a proclamation to the Church and to the world as a declaration and reaffirmation of standards, doctrines, and practices relative to the family which the prophets, seers, and revelators of this church have repeatedly stated throughout its history."
We should all have a copy of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” in with our scriptures.
Sophistry is subtly deceptive reasoning or argument. If Satan has us believe something “minor” is true, he will easily lead us away from the truth.
Satan’s effective tool is discouragement. He tries to convince us that marriage is not important, that children do not need a mother and father, that money is most important, that moral values don’t matter.
Satan’s premises are FALSE.
True Premises are the scriptures, the prophets and personal revelation
We need to rely on these “instruments” just as Lehi and Nephi did with the Liahona.
“Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit.
“What may appear initially to be a daunting task will be much easier to manage over time as you consistently strive to recognize and follow feelings prompted by the Spirit. Your confidence in the direction you receive from the Holy Ghost will also become stronger. I witness that as you gain experience and success in being guided by the Spirit, your confidence in the impressions you feel can become more certain than your dependence on what you see or hear.
“Easy things never produce much beneficial fruit. Neither our Father in Heaven nor His Holy Son take delight in seeing you struggle to overcome obstacles, resolve questions, or find solutions to complex and challenging problems. However, they do rejoice when you willingly recognize that these steps are steps to growth which lead to action that molds your character.”
- Elder Richard G Scott
Moses 6:61: Therefore it is given to abide in you; the record of heaven; the Comforter; the peaceable things of immortal glory; the truth of all things; that which quickeneth all things, which maketh alive all things; that which knoweth all things, and hath all power according to wisdom, mercy, truth, justice, and judgment.
The Holy Ghost helps us discern between good and evil. Following the Holy Ghost helps prevent distractions, helps us discern between needs and wants, necessities and non-necessities, helps us keep to the right path.
“Following the Brethren is, of course, a different challenge in a society that is sinking rapidly, such as was the case in Sodom and Gomorrah, as compared with following the prophets in a society where there is reasonable righteousness and reasonable happiness. Obedience is required in both settings, to be sure, but there is an intensification of the challenge presented to members of the Church in the one setting compared with the other somewhat more tranquil time and circumstance.”
- Elder Neil A. Maxwell
Moses instructed Joshua to go to Shechem teach Isreal the truth and how to choose.
Joshua 24:15: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
The attitude and behavior of the world can so easily be distorted or assimilated by us.
We need to choose:
- not to sin
- not to be distracted
- not to be discouraged
We need to be DOING. Teach. Teach the Gospel.
Isaiah 54:13: “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”
We need to have priorities.
“A wise man once distinguished between “the noble art of getting things done” and “a nobler art of leaving things undone.” True “wisdom in life,” he taught, consists of “the elimination of non-essentials” May I suggest that you periodically evaluate how you are doing in this area? What are the nonessential things that clutter your days and steal your time? What are the habits you may have developed that do not serve a useful purpose? What are the unfinished or unstarted things that could add vigor, meaning, and joy to your life?
“Sometimes we make the mistake of neglecting the essentials of life. The Savior had harsh words for the scribes and Pharisees of His day: “Woe unto you,” He told them, “for [you] have omitted the weightier matters of the law, [justice], mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done” (Matthew 23:23).
“Although the Savior’s words were directed to a specific audience thousands of years ago, they apply to us as well today.
“In modern revelation, the Lord has commanded, “Thou shalt not idle away thy time, neither shalt thou bury thy talent that it may not be known” (D&C 60:13). It is quite common to hear people and friends of ours say, “Where has the time gone?” or “If I only had more time.””
“Even though we may have wasted time yesterday, there is hope. There is a full day waiting for us today and tomorrow. However, if we continue to take our allotted time for granted, we may find ourselves like Elder Neal A. Maxwell put it: “Either we use time wisely or it uses us; either we manage tasks effectively, or we are pushed about and prodded by them”
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, BYU Speech
We need to distinguish between non-essentials:
Facebook to brag or gripe - adjustments may need to be made
Keeping up appearances
Wants vs needs
When you step into Cosco for a delicious carton of plump blueberries, you are bombarded with “wants”, the big screen TV, the hot tob, etc. We really need to be strong in distinguishing our needs vs. our wants.
“So how do we stay aligned with these weightier matters? Is there a constant compass that can help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions?
“Once again the Savior revealed the way. When asked to name the greatest commandment, He did not hesitate. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind,” He said. “This is the first and great commandment.” (Matthew 22:37, 38) Coupled with the second great commandment—to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39)—we have a compass that provides direction not only for our lives but also for the Lord’s Church on both sides of the veil.”
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, October 2009 General Conference
Oh, how we need to love God.
Real charity is not something you give away; it is something that you acquire and make a part of yourself. And when the virtue of charity becomes implanted in your heart, you are never the same again.
- Elder Marvin J Ashton, April 1992 General Conference
“This society is composed of women whose feelings of charity spring from hearts changed by qualifying for and by keeping covenants offered only in the Lord’s true Church. Their feelings of charity come from Him through His Atonement. Their acts of charity are guided by His example—and come out of gratitude for His infinite gift of mercy—and by the Holy Spirit, which He sends to accompany His servants on their missions of mercy. Because of that, they have done and are able to do uncommon things for others and to find joy even when their own unmet needs are great.”
- President Henry B. Eyring, 2009 General Relief Society Meeting
“[The Relief Society] will fly to the relief of the stranger; they will pour in oil and wine to the wounded heart of the distressed; they will dry up the tears of the orphan and make the widow’s heart to rejoice”
- Prophet Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:567
“If one member suffer all feel it; by union of feeling we obtain power with God”
- Prophet Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:23
“Service in the Relief Society magnifies and sanctifies each individual sister.”
President Boyd K Packer
“Accept responsibility in the Church, and trust in the Lord to make you equal to any call you may receive. Your example will set a pattern for your children. Reach out in love to those in distress and need."
- President Gordon B. Hinckley
“The errand of angels is given to women;
And this is a gift that, as sisters, we claim:
To do whatsoever is gentle and human,
To cheer and to bless in humanity’s name.”
- “As sisters in Zion” Hymn 309
Serving the Lord has an eternal impact on self, family and others.
“You can count the number of seeds in an apple, but you cant count the number of apples in a seed.”
You will never know the impact you may have on an other sister.
“Much of the major growth that is coming to the Church in the last days will come because many of the good women of the world (in whom there is often such an inner sense of spirituality) will be drawn to the Church in large numbers. This will happen to the degree that the women of the Church reflect righteousness and articulateness in their lives and to the degree that the women of the Church are seen as distinct and different—in happy ways—from the women of the world.
“Among the real heroines in the world who will come into the Church are women who are more concerned with being righteous than with being selfish. These real heroines have true humility, which places a higher value on integrity than on visibility. Remember, it is as wrong to do things just to be seen of women as it is to do things to be seen of men. Great women and men are always more anxious to serve than to have dominion.”
- President Spencer W Kimball.
Mosiah 4:27: “And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.
Alma 7:23: “And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.”
FIND BALANCE
Before you start your day, kneel down and ask the Lord his expectations of you.
Before you end your day, kneel down and review your day in prayer.
“You are no ordinary beings, my beloved young friends all around the world. You are glorious and eternal.”
- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, BYU Fireside 2009
“Hold on a little Longer”
“The best is yet to come”
“You are the guardians of the hearth. You are the bearers of the children. You are they who nurture them and establish within them the habits of their lives. No other work reaches so close to divinity as does the nurturing of the sons and daughters of God. May you be strengthened for the challenges of the day. May you be endowed with wisdom beyond your own in dealing with the problems you constantly face. May your prayers and your pleadings be answered with blessings upon your heads and upon the heads of your loved ones. We leave with you our love and our blessing, that your lives may be filled with peace and gladness. It can be so. Many of you can testify that it has been so. The Lord bless you now and through the years to come, I humbly pray in the name of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.”
- President Gordon B. Hinckely, 1995 General Relief Society Meeting
“I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails.
I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp.
I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children.
I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden.
I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder.
I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived."
- Marjorie Pay Hinckley
Closing Song: “Miracles” by Sally DeFord, sung by YSA
Amid the countless blessings the Lord has given me
The light of truth and goodness; the Holy Spirit's peace
I see the many sorrows that his children must endure
So much hurt I long to heal. How can I change the world?
Chorus:
There are hands I cannot hold
Hearts I cannot comfort
Tears that only miracles can stay
So let me love and serve and teach
Those who come within my reach
For miracles begin that way
The Savior walked in Galilee, unknown in many lands
Yet touching every nation by the labors of his hands
Giving light to all the world by teaching but the few
He is my example in the work that I must do
I will bear the burden of my neighbor in his need
I will share my Savior's love in every kindly deed
He will magnify my efforts, and I'll understand at last
That by these small and simple things are great things brought to pass.
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