3 Ways to Help Your Children Establish Their Own Connection to Heaven

 “Were I to draw a distinction in all the duties that are required of the children of men, … I would place first and foremost the duty of seeking the Lord our God until we open the path of communication from heaven to earth—from God to our own souls.”1 After pondering this thought from Brigham Young, my husband and I have often talked about how we can help our young son establish his own connection to heaven. Because of the connection I have with my Heavenly Father, I have been guided, elevated, and led as I make choices and grow through experiences. 

7 Talks That Will Help Build Your Testimony of the Atonement

Maybe it is because he lived 2,000 years ago. Or maybe it is because his recorded words are sometimes difficult to grasp. Learning about Jesus Christ, his gospel, and especially the Atonement has been something I've had to work at. Trying to comprehend how it is all possible and how his Atonement encompasses everyone who has ever lived is exhausting and has left me wishing for a more personal, one-on-one relationship with the Savior. As I have studied and pondered Christ's mission, my testimony and personal relationship with him have improved and continue to do so. 

Below I have listed seven talks that have helped me understand Jesus Christ's Atonement better and strengthened my testimony. I know He is the Christ and Savior of the world and all mankind.

What talk or scripture has helped build your testimony? 

Shattering Mormon Stereotypes

I guess you could say my younger sister’s life has not played out the way a Latter-day Saint girl’s life traditionally plays out. She and I and our two other siblings grew up in an active LDS family, right in the center of Mormonism in Salt Lake City, Utah. Shortly after high school, however, my sister’s life veered away from the faith we all shared and onto a journey that took her away from activity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for nearly 15 years.

4 Programs that Help LDS Youth (and Can Help Your Youth) Stand Out

I've had the opportunity to work with youth inside and outside the LDS church in a number of different capacities throughout my life. During those times, I've often been approached by other leaders/counselors who have said things like “there’s something different about LDS youth” or “your youth are just so good.” While I absolutely do not claim that LDS youth have a monopoly on goodness, I think there is something to my friends’ observations. What is it that makes LDS youth stand out? In the end, I believe it stems from a firm knowledge of God’s plan for them and a strong conviction to live the principles of the restored gospel. Although the basis for most of this learning starts in the home, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a number of programs that support parents and help LDS youth put those principles into practice.

Here I outline just four of the programs that LDS youth take part in all around the world. The best thing about these programs is that they are not exclusive to members of the church! If you’re interested in learning more, just ask an LDS neighbor or contact the missionaries in your area to see how you or your youth can get involved.