Bulletin Board Ideas

Do you have a bulletin board that could use a little sprucing up? Need a fun weekday activity?

Here are a few ideas from various LDS auxiliaries and elementary school classrooms to get your creative juices flowing:

Imagine a temple here. What banner would you put up?

 

Can you see this one re-titled a “Path Through Personal Progress?” Could be a fun display for Young Women in Excellence or New Beginnings.

 

This could be a For the Strength of Youth board with photos of the faces of your Young Women attached to bodies they’ve drawn themselves.  You could even bring fun fabric for them to be modesty fashion designers and glue their designs to the bodies they’ve drawn. The papers they are holding could be their handwritten description of ways they see each other keeping the standards.

 

“iTune into the Holy Ghost when I……” or have each young women list favorite songs or movies that meet standards in For the Strength of Youth.

 

Spotlight a Young Women, her family or an activity.

 

How would your Laurels adapt this one for your ward?

 

There are so many great ideas out there that we can revise and alter “according to that which [comes to your] heart and … mind” as we prayerfully seek for ways to uplift and strengthen our exemplary Young Women. 

Conference Inspirations from You

Sister Gina Udy: Portsmouth Ward Young Women President.

I've been thinking about your email this week, and after meeting yesterday [for a new Young Women President training] I thought of something I could share.  You kept using the phrases, "sift out the dark; pull out the light," when we spoke.  I liked that enough that I wrote it down in my notes to share with my presidency.  It got me thinking today about the video they showed at the broadcast with the young woman heading out into the world on her way to the temple, and seeing things on her journey that reminded her of spiritual things.  I think we can all do that - as we go about our day, train our minds to see the light around us, seek the good…start using our spiritual eyes.  It's something I'm going to strive for.  

Sister Kris Draney: Derry Ward Young Women President.

Sitting next to me as I watched the Young Women General Meeting was my seven year old daughter, Lorelai. Having armed her with a new pack of crayons and a stack of paper, I had high hopes that she would happily entertain herself during the meeting. Part ways through the first talk I noticed Lorelai
intently watching Sis. Dibb as she spoke of holy places. When Sis. Dibb finished, my sweet and innocent daughter declared that she planned to read scriptures in her bedroom so it could be her holy place. Lorelai showed me pictures she had drawn of all the places she considered to be holy. My heart overflowed with love for this precious spirit. I was overcome not only with my love for her, but the love her Heavenly Father has for his Daughter.

My heart swelled further as I looked at her drawings and saw a picture of our family gathered in a hospital room. Sis. Dibb’s words were immediately brought to my mind:

“To you young women I offer Elder Holland’s words: ‘You can have sacred, revelatory, profoundly instructive experiences with the Lord in the most miserable experiences of your life … , while enduring the most painful injustices, when facing the most insurmountable odds and opposition you have ever faced.’ In other words, just like the Prophet Joseph Smith, you can create and stand in holy places even in the hardest times you have ever experienced” (March 2013 Young
Women General Meeting).

My dearest husband recently spent several days in the cardiac ICU as a result of his medical condition. In a time filled with fear and uncertainty, our family was visited with the comforting presence of the Holy Ghost. We felt a strengthening of our family and a renewed promise that our bonds were eternal. Lorelai recognized that for us, standing together as a family and seeking the Lord in our time of need, made that hospital room a holy place.

As a leader it is my sincere desire to help my young women know that they too can find a holy place where they can receive comfort and stand strong in the arms of their Heavenly Father. I want my daughter and my girls to understand President Uchtdorf’s promise that we are not alone on this journey. Our Heavenly Father knows us; he loves us perfectly and knows our needs. Because we are never alone, even in the midst of trials we can stand in holy places and be not moved.

 

Sister Alison Hardisty: Exeter Ward Young Women President.

After listening to General Conference I always feel a sense of renewal, the Holy Ghost has filled me up once again and I feel fully charged and ready to serve the Lord and His beloved daughters. The one part of conference I want to write about is in our beloved Sister Dalton’s talk. We are all so sad that she has been released since we feel especially close to her after her visit with us last summer. She has served the Lord well and deserves a much needed “break”. In her talk “We Are Daughters of Our Heavenly Father” she talks about the importance of knowing that we are “known by a loving Heavenly Father”. And we are not alone. The phrase “What-e’re thou art, act well thy part” struck a deep chord in my heart as I felt the spirit testify so strongly, that her message was true, for us as leaders and for our sweet young women that we have stewardship over. She says “Heavenly Father knows me and has a plan for my life”, what a comforting truth, so simply stated, yet so powerful. I applied to my life and I also thought of my Exeter Ward Young Women who are in the midst of their pre-teen and teenage years and are making some big decisions. As they choose their path in faith, knowing that a loving Heavenly Father is there for them and guiding them, what comfort that will be to their minds. Indecision and insecurity will leave their thoughts and peace will fill their bodies. I know this to be true and I say it in
the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Sister Theresa Whitman: Georgetown Ward Young Women President.

I was touched by many small pieces of conference, and profoundly moved by a few specific talks, but what is most inspiring to me is the effect that my calling has had on my overall General Conference experience.  Because I was engaged in Conference not only for myself and my family but also for each young woman individually, our Young Women group as a whole, and my counselors, I picked up on themes that I might otherwise have missed.  I felt uplifted and reinforced each time something that I've been striving to get through to our Young Women was highlighted, and found inspiration and renewed energy when recognizing something new (or even just a new way to say something) that is important for our group to work on.

One of the themes I found is the idea that we are not behind; it is okay to make a change and begin right where we are if we find we have changes to make.  President Uchtdorf's talk, "The Hope of God's Light," and Elder Holland's talk, "Lord, I Believe," especially spoke to this point, though it was present throughout the sessions.  I find that it can be overwhelming to look at the changes we need to make, but if we simply start where we are and acknowledge what we already DO have going for us, especially in terms of testimony and faith, the task can be less daunting.  I know in my ward, many of the Young Women truly lack confidence in their testimonies and in their faith.  They don't recognize the faith they have because they are so wrapped up in what they don't have, especially when they compare themselves to others.  It's important to me to turn this on it's head with our group, and quickly, because I think it's a common problem for members of all ages.  Instilling confidence by getting them to acknowledge the areas they already have faith and testimony, even if the number is small, can help them see that it is worth the effort to grow their faith and testimony in other gospel principles they may not be so sure of.  Letting them know that it is good to look at where they actually are and giving permission to start there with baby steps is something we try to do as a presidency, and I'm grateful for the eloquent way President Uchtdorf and Elder Holland express this.

I have a personal story to go with that.  During Elder Holland's talk, he spoke of the young man who couldn't say that the church is true, but who believed that it is.  This story really spoke to me because of an experience I had at Girls Camp last year.  In planning the testimony evening, I asked one of our Youth Leaders if she would be willing and prepared to "go" in case of a quiet spot (my first year at Girls Camp testimony meeting--I was obviously naive!).  She looked right at me and gave me her honest answer that she could not, because she was still working on a testimony.  I was a little surprised but kept my response supportive and thanked her for her honesty.  How I wish now that I had been prepared for her reply!  What a great opportunity it would have been to open up the discussion as Elder Holland did, emphasizing the importance of belief in the face of uncertain knowledge, letting her work out through discussion what she already DOES have in faith!  I am thankful for this story, and now feel prepared to open up the discussion with the very same girl this year.  It's an easy conversation to start, given that she'll be in my group again this year, and I'm grateful to have that guidance as a way to make right my missed opportunity.

I'll spare you the details of all the themes I am pondering, but I will share that I was also especially inspired by Elder Bednar's talk on chastity.  Oddly, it's not the subject itself (though I understand its importance), but the way he presented it, that struck me.  Elder Bednar covered so many different issues that we have been discussing in our Young Women organization, particularly in our Laurel group.  The importance of understanding the Plan of Salvation, which we have been really working with, is so pervasive in this talk and Elder Bednar's succinct, direct way of speaking brings the concepts to life clearly.  I'm a big fan of his analogy that guilt from sin is to the spirit what a wound is to the body, and that more serious wounds require more intensive care, and--importantly--more time to heal.  I can see this being an analogy we use over and over throughout the year, and I'm grateful for it.  I believe Elder Bednar to be someone who is especially relatable to the youth in New England in particular, and that he took on this sometimes-tricky gospel principle in clear terms is important; that his talk tied in so many other things that the Georgetown Young Women are addressing in particular is a bonus.

Spring Training

Want to “hit a home run” in the lives of our Young Women and their families?

Wonder how we can make sure that they (and we) have their/our “bases loaded” with testimony and conversion?

Do you have a desire to “strike out” the adversary from the lives our girls?

Could you use a little help when you are “up to bat” in your ministry?

Well, Spring Training is here to help get us all in great spiritual shape to serve in the Young Women Auxiliary!

Spring 2013 Auxiliary Training with the General Young Women Presidency

“In conjunction with the April 2013 general conference, the general Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary presidencies will conduct training for stake and ward auxiliary leaders on Thursday, April 4, 6pm-9pm MST. The training is designed to help leaders learn their duties and to introduce resource materials that can be used for auxiliary leadership training.” (http://www.lds.org/church/news/general-auxiliary-presidencies-offer-training-for-ward-and-stake-leaders?lang=eng)

Our presidency’s tradition for viewing this annual training is to gather at Sister Kelly’s home to view the web-cast live. We each bring yummy treats, wear comfy clothes (i.e. pajamas) and a make sure we have a fresh pen and pad of paper to fill up with principles, promptings and plans. We invite you to discuss how to best implement it among your auxiliary. 

May you know of our love and gratitude for each of you and may our Father in Heaven continue to inspire you through His Spirit with meaningful ways to minister to these precious Daughters of God and to our precious families.

With Much Love & Gratitude,

Exeter, NH Stake Young Women Presidency

2013 World Wide Leadership Training

“Strengthening the Family and the Church through the Priesthood” is the subject of our 2013 World Wide Leadership Training. You probably already read about it in the February issue of the Ensign.

“In the coming months, Church members around the world will participate in an inspiring new approach to Worldwide Leadership Training.

Unlike previous training meetings, this year’s Worldwide Leadership Training will not be broadcast as a single event for ward and stake leaders. Instead, it is divided into nine short segments—on a DVD and on LDS.org—that encourage discussion by all leaders, members, and families throughout this coming year and beyond.”

Can you sense the wisdom and possibilities of this new pattern of training, teaching and involvement?

When you visit lds.org, you will find the training videos on the main banner and notice that they are ready for download today. Feel free to view the videos as you prepare to participate in the doctrinal dialogues that will surely come from viewing this together in your council meeting. As you do, be sure to jot down the ponderings, promptings and plans that come to you.

May we be unitedly blessed with, receive and then act upon the revelation we desire regarding our own personal growth, the growth of our families and of our beautiful Young Women here in the Exeter Stake.

Lunchtime Moment

Sisters,

I hope you can take a moment during your day to watch this. Afterward, I invite you to be the 1/10th to return in an offering of gratitude.

We are Daughters of our Heavenly Father who loves us…and we love Him.

With Great Love,

Sister Gish

Let Young Women Lead (L3)

While perusing the Young Women page on lds.org recently, I came across this new addition:  Leading in the Savior’s Way: Leadership Lessons for Young Women Class Presidencies. In fact, it is so new, it is still under construction. Nevertheless, it is packed full of timely counsel, great leadership ideas and useful ministering tools. You’ll notice that it is organized very much like Come, Follow Me. 

Here is an example of one of the lessons:

Which lesson do you and the Class Presidents feel would be the most beneficial to learn and discuss during your next meeting? Is there a particular doctrine or principle that, if better understood, would increase joy in your service and theirs? In what ways can this leadership tool be used other than Young Women class presidency meetings?

We pray, and know, that the Spirit will reveal to you and your Young Women class presidencies exactly the best way to utilize these principles as you move forward in your callings to both - prayerfully administer the guidelines of the Young Women Auxiliary of your ward, and then go forth to lovingly minister to the Young Women of your ward.

With Great Love & Gratitude…

Presidency Message - January

From Sister Shannon Gish – President, Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency 

Happy New Year my beloved friends and Sisters.  As I sit here at my computer and type these words, my heart is full of love and gratitude to my Father in Heaven for the precious blessings of family and friends.  I see each of you in my mind’s eye leading with love and serving with sacrifice. I am overjoyed to be equally yoked with you and our Savior in His marvelous Work.

Perhaps like you, the new year always brings to me a sense of re-birth, of second chances and of deepened desires to – as I heard it said once – “get it right”. In searching for inspiration during my preparation to set new goals and renew previous ones, I came across a few quotes that set my mind and heart in motion. I hope they do the same for you.

"The object of a New Year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul... new feet, a new backbone, new ears, and new eyes. Unless a man starts afresh about things, he will certainly do nothing effective.”  (attributed to G. K. Chesterton. A catholic philosopher and writer.)

“I thank Jesus for…His marvelous management of time, for never misusing a moment, including the moments of meditation. Even his seconds showed his stewardship” ~ Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Ensign, May 1976, 26

"One day we will take that unavoidable step and cross from this mortal sphere into the next estate...and wonder if we could have been better, made better decisions, or used our time more wisely…[I]t would be wise to make some resolutions today. Therefore, let us:
• Resolve to spend more time with those we love.
• Resolve to strive more earnestly to become the person God wants us to be.
• Resolve to find happiness, regardless of our circumstances.
It is my testimony that many of the deepest regrets of tomorrow can be prevented by following the Savior today." ~ President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Of Regrets and Resolutions”.

"Every person is different and has a different contribution to make. No one is destined to fail. As you seek revelation to see gifts God sees in those you lead…you will be blessed to lift their sights to the service they can perform. With your guidance, those you lead will be able to see, want, and believe they can achieve their full potential for service in God’s kingdom." ~ President Henry B. Eyring, “Help Them Aim High”.

"Have the determination to make the effort, the single-mindedness to work toward a worthy goal, and the courage…to make a second effort, should such be required. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.' May we remember to cultivate a positive attitude, a belief that we can achieve our goals and resolutions, and the courage to face whatever challenges may come our way. Then the abundant life will be ours." ~ President Thomas S. Monson President Monson, “Living the Abundant Life”.

As we pray and ponder about our goals, may we add the resolve to stand, unmoved, in holy places and invite our loved ones to do so as well. I also encourage you to visit the following links as you consider your own individual, family and presidency goals. Consider sharing them at the first class presidency meetings of the new year. They might be useful in guiding revelation for our young women as they strive to minister to the other young women that they, like us, are also called to serve and love.

“Go For It!”

“Have I Done Any Good In the World Today?”

“He Lives.”

I pray that we will be One in this Work. I pray that our families will be blessed and feel the love of God in their lives; that they will be protected and strengthened for their support of us. I pray that each one of you, my beloved Sisters of the great auxiliary to the Priesthood - the Relief Society, who serve these righteous, good, divinely beautiful Daughters of God, will find strength beyond your own capacity; that you will continue to aim high so that you – that we – may bring souls higher as we grow towards eternal life. Most of all, I pray “with all the energy of heart, that [we] may be filled with [charity], which [is] bestowed upon all who are true followers of Jesus Christ; that…when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure.” (Moroni 7:48) This is our ultimate goal.

With great love, deepest gratitude and a joyful hope for 2013 and the years ahead.

(To create your own “wordle” like the image above,click here http://www.wordle.net/create. This is a great FHE activity! Call me if you have any troubles with it. I am happy to help.)

Edified and Rejoicing Together - Preparing for the New Curriculum

In the coming weeks, wards will be having an in-depth training on the new curriculum, Come, Follow Me. We encourage you to attend and then take some time to prayerfully study and ponder the various doctrinal questions, patterns of Christ-like teaching, spiritual preparation ideas and invitations to act which you will find throughout the website.

Since the previous manuals will no longer be used from January 1st on, you may be wondering what to do with the them.  We want you to know that it is appropriate to purge them out of your closets completely.  If you choose, feel free to counsel with your Bishop about the best way to dispose of them.

The First Presidency stated "The new curriculum integrates basic gospel doctrines, as well as principles for teaching in the Savior's way ...The focus is on strengthening and building faith, conversion and testimony, using the most current teachings of the General Authorities and General Auxiliary Presidencies... We are confident the new curriculum will bless youth in their efforts to become fully converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ." (Church News, 10/6/12)

We are likewise confident that the promise that, “he that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together” (Doctrine & Covenants 50:22) will be fulfilled as we prepare to facilitate revelation not only for ourselves, but for these beautiful Daughters of God whom we love and who He loves.

Presidency Message – December

From Sister Jen Alves – Secretary, Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency

December is an exciting time of year! Though it is cold and winter begins we see thousands of twinkly white lights emerge from homes shining into dark nights lighting up our souls with warmth and joy! Every Christmas season It comes to my heart and mind that those lights are symbolic of Christ’s light. “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12.

Faithful saints are also the light of the world. You are the light of the world! Each of you are followers of Christ and through your leadership you help the Young Women of our stake join and continue with the faithful followers of Christ in being the light of the world. Yours is a sacred calling. I know each of you have been called because you can offer to the girls the lessons and examples they need in the way that they need them. I pray that each of you will be strengthened and blessed according to your needs and your desires. May you continue in your callings with vision, passion, and enthusiasm which will be contagious among the youth of the Exeter Stake. May you love the Lord, love your callings, and love the Young Women which you direct.

Twinkling white lights at Christmas time against a dark night also make me think of that time just before Christ returns. I imagine much of the world being dark with pockets of light scattered over the earth. With a closer look we see that those pockets of light are the stakes of Zion. They will be and are quite literally, “The light of the world”.

It is my prayer this Christmas season that our stakes worldwide (especially the Exeter Stake) will feel the great love that our Holy Father in heaven has for each individual therein. May we be as one; United in purpose and love for one another, love of our God, and love of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Immense Gratitude ascends to our Heavenly Father for sending His son, Jesus Christ, to set forth a perfect example for us and to redeem us from our fallen state. May we all emulate the pure love of Christ this Christmas season and new year as our gift to Him, to mankind, and to ourselves.

With Christmas Excitement,

Sister Jen Alves

Exeter Stake Young Women Secretary

Activity Idea – Prayerful PJs

Hi Sisters,

Wouldn’t these be so cute to make during a weekly activity?

They weren’t given a name at the site where I found them, so I’ve called them Prayerful PJ’s. (Here’s where you can view the original idea and photos.)

This is a fun and easy activity the girls can do in one evening.

Have the girls bring in their favorite pair of pajama bottoms.

Start with a spiritual thought about the connection of our hearts to Heavenly Father when we pray. Here are a few scriptures and quotes to get you thinking:

• Psalm 62:8
• Alma 37:37
• “So how will He lead us today? Through prophets, apostles, and priesthood leaders and through feelings that come after we pour out our hearts and souls to Heavenly Father in prayer. He leads us as we forsake the things of the world, repent, and change. He leads us as we keep His commandments and try to be more like Him. And He leads us through the Holy Ghost.” ~ Carl B. Cook, It is Better to Look Up.
• “Over the years the prophets have taught that at least twice a day, morning and evening, we should find a private place, kneel down, and pour out our hearts to our Father in Heaven. Then, throughout the day, we can do our best to keep a prayer in our hearts. As we do, if our hearts are right, we will find that our prayers have increased power and focus, and we’ll discover that we’re in a better position to receive answers” ~ Gene R Cook, Receiving Answers to Our Prayers [1996], 46;

After the spiritual thought, the girls can spend the rest of the time making their Prayful Pj’s. The instructions listed on the photos include making the actual pajama bottoms. But to make the project simple enough to complete in one night, feel free to just hand stitch the hearts to the knees of the girls’ pj’s. To really make the project move quickly, you can also use Patch Attach.

If the girls bring an extra pair of pj bottoms, this project is easy enough to make another pair and then deliver them to a class member who could use a little extra love.

Presidency Message - November

From Sister Sandra Reyes – 2nd Counselor, Stake Young Women Presidency

Dear Sisters,

There many blessings which we are grateful for as we work together in the gospel. There have been many times where we had strong feelings that will guide us to what our Heavenly Father wanted at that given time for our youth. We have acknowledged the Lord's hand in every activity, dance, fireside and conference that we have planned. We are grateful for these experiences and  we feel that we need to let you know that we are also grateful for each one of you…

We are grateful that this year we had the opportunity to visit and see all of you during Ward Conferences.

We appreciate each one of you who works so hard every week to bring the young women together for an activity. 

We thank you for the time spent preparing weekly lessons.

We appreciate you for the love you express to the young women each day of the week.

We are grateful that the young women in the Exeter Stake have leaders so caring like you.

May your family be blessed as you serve in the Young Women program. 

2012 Stake Auxiliary Training

Dearest Sisters,

We are really looking forward to our time together this month. We hope you will make every effort to attend.

We ask that you bring:

• 9 copies of a recent activity or other successful idea to share. You can also email them to shannongish@gmail.com by  November 11th and we will have them ready for you that evening.
• Your Scriptures
• Your Handbook

In preparation for that meeting we invite you to view any of the short videos found here.

We pray that all of us will be nourished and rejuvenated as we prepare for and attend this training. May you feel God’s love for you, your family and these remarkable Daughters of our Heavenly Father whom we love and teach.

With Great Love & Gratitude,

The Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency

image of mountain used in the invite found here: http://openclipart.org/detail/7490/mountain-by-any_ono_mous

Activity, Lesson & Family Home Evening Ideas + Lib Dub Video

Wasn’t Stake Conference wonderful? It was so joyful to watch Rebekah Day, a Laurel from Methuen - and one of Sister Krista Day’s incredible Daughters -speak with such poise and with the Spirit. And did you see how many of our Young Women were in the choir? We sure love all of them – and all of you.

Here are a few ideas to help as you and the class presidencies plan your weekly activities:

Give each person a puzzle piece to decorate... keeping the edges intact so it can be re-assembled. Use for a lesson on individual worth... how each individual piece is beautiful on its own. But what a masterpiece you get when you put them all together! (Big chunky puzzles work best.)

Focus on others during these holiday months with over 50 acts of kindness.

Christmas tree relay game: Give each team a roll of green crepe paper and ornaments. They have to decorate one person from their team to look like a Christmas tree.

Pin the tag on the missionary. With the new announcement from President Monson, this would be fun to do with a young woman and a young man wall picture. Have each youth create their own tag in the language of one place they would love to serve the Lord. Then play the game. Afterwards you might also divide the youth up into twosomes or threesomes and have them take 15 minutes to study and then come up with a 5 minute lesson on one topic from Preach My Gospel (see side bar for link to that book.)

Fun craft.

Personal Progress “Ketchup” Night.

And last but not least: THE EXETER STAKE LIP DUB!

Huge thank you to the Exeter Ward Young Women Presidency (Sister Alison Hardisty, Sister Nicole Caverretta, Sister Amy Edwards, Sister Holly Lyles) and the Exeter Ward Young Men Presidency (Brother Harvey Gish, Brother Chris Caverretta and Brother Matt Adams) for coordinating this! Aren’t the youth so fun to watch? They had a blast.

Stake Conference Temple Night

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We hope to fill the temple with Relief Society Sisters who serve in the Young Women auxiliary.

As mentioned on the above invitation, we would love to unite with you at the 7:00pm session.

Presidency Message – October

From Sister Renee Kelly. Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency. 1st Counselor

I recently attended a teaching fireside in my home ward. There were many wonderful points made by the presenter and lots of terrific input from those attending.

At the end the question she (the presenter) left us with was this -

"What doctrine or principle, if understood, would help those in my stewardship progress in the gospel?"

This question lead me to another question - Who exactly is in my stewardship?  The first person I thought of was myself!  It occurred to me that if I was not actively looking for doctrine and principles during my personal study then the chance that I would be able to teach a doctrine or principle would be greatly diminished.  Amazingly, I heard this message echoed in the talk given by Sister Linda Reeves, Second Counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency, on Saturday night. "Feel and see for yourself THEN help others feel and see."

Sisters, we as a presidency are aware of the weight that is upon each of you.  Life on its own can get hectic, and when our stewardships broaden because of our callings the weight can increase.  Please remember this is HIS work, and because it is HIS, He will help you carry it. Please put yourself first in your gospel study, not in a selfish way but in a way that will nourish you that you may have the will, the stamina and the joy that comes from working with the Savior and his precious Daughters of God.

Thank you as always for being so wonderful!!

Much love.

 

Image above by Andrew Knaupp found at http://www.lds.org/ensign/print/2012/09/testifying-of-christ?lang=eng&clang=eng

Upcoming General Relief Society Meeting

Sister Linda K. Burton, center, Sister Carole M. Stephens, left, and Sister Linda S. Reeves, right.

From the Church News

The general Relief Society meeting of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be held on September 29, 2012.

Relief Society sisters worldwide are invited to view the satellite broadcast of the general Relief Society meeting at 6:00 p.m. mountain daylight time (8:00pm eastern daylight time). All women 18 years of age and older are encouraged to view the broadcast. They are also encouraged to invite friends and neighbors who may benefit from the meeting.

Linda K. Burton, Relief Society general president; Carole M. Stephens, first counselor; and Linda S. Reeves, second counselor, will speak, along with a member of the First Presidency. This will be the first Relief Society broadcast since the general presidency’s reorganization in spring 2012.

Live video streaming of the broadcast will be available at broadcasts.lds.org in 16 languages: ASL, Cantonese, Cebuano, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Samoan, Spanish, Tagalog, and Tongan. Archives of the broadcast will be available in those same languages at the same site within 24 hours. Live video and audio will also be available in English and Spanish at mormonchannel.org. Click here for more information.

“Although the name may be of modern date, the institution is of ancient origin. We were told by our martyred prophet that the same organization existed in the church anciently.” Eliza R. Snow, Daughters of My Kingdom, Chapter 1 Heading.)

“This great circle of sisters will be a protection for each of you and for your families. The Relief Society might be likened to a refuge—the place of safety and protection—the sanctuary of ancient times. You will be safe within it. It encircles each sister like a protecting wall.” (Boyd K. Packer, Daughters in My Kingdom, Chapter 6 Heading.)

“The world's greatest champion of woman and womanhood is Jesus the Christ.” (James E. Talmage, Daughters of My Kingdom, pg. 3)

We pray that we will all be spiritually recharged and refreshed by the messages we will hear as we continue the great work and purposes of the Relief Society while serving in the Young Women’s auxiliary.

Recipe + Video Recommendation

Sisters, did any of you try Sister Alves incredibly yummy Saltine Toffee Cookies at the annual New Castle Commons activity on Saturday? The question should be, how many of you didn’t? I, for one, lost count after a half dozen. Sister Alves has graciously offered the recipe for those sweet and salty snacks (see below). This is a delicious and very easy refreshment idea for your weekly activities, firesides and Family Home Evening.

Ingredients for 36 servings

• 1/4 pound saltine crackers
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 cups and 1 tablespoon semisweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup and 1 teaspoon chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
2. Line cookie sheet with saltine crackers in single layer.
3. In a saucepan combine the sugar and the butter. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes. Immediately pour over saltines and spread t cover crackers completely.
4. Bake at 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) for 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for 5 minutes. Spread melted chocolate and top with chopped nuts. Cool completely and break into pieces.

I also recommend to you Elder Holland’s CES address from last night. I pray you will feel uplifted, refreshed and strengthened as you view it. Israel, Israel God is Calling

Love&Gratitude
Shannon

Activity Ideas

Have you heard about this wonderful idea called The Birthday Project?

It was started by this woman. Her name is Robyn Bomar.

Having been inspired by an LDS  friend, she decided to do 38 Random Acts of Kindness to celebrate her 38th birthday and invited others to join her.

Here are just a few things she and her family did:

Returned grocery carts in store parking lots

Bought a gift card for groceries and turned around  and handed it to woman in line behind her. 

Walked up to a family eating lunch at a local restaurant, placed a gift card on their table and walked out.

Dropped off several hand written thank you notes and doughnuts at the police station.

Handed out Mylar balloons to children shopping with their parents.

Taped change to vending machines.

Wrote a letter to old friend and mailed it.

Brought in the neighbor’s garbage can for them.

Took  a large bag of clothes to the local homeless shelter.

There are so many layers here. Wouldn’t this be a fun way to celebrate all kinds of birthdays? Which birthdays would our Young Women want to celebrate this way? And what kinds of acts of kindness would they come up? Your next class presidency meeting with them would be a great place to bring it up.

WithLove&Gratitude.

Summer Memories

From Sister Heather Van Gieson - President, Sanford Ward Young Women Auxiliary

“The Young Women Conference was a wonderful experience for everyone who came. I think what struck me the most was the love Sister Dalton radiated to the girls. During her address she spoke about the blessing she received when she was set apart that she would have a Christ like love for these girls. We were all blessed to feel that love and for a moment better understand the love the Savior has for our girls. One of my girls told her grandmother after the conference that she could feel how much Sister Dalton loved them. What I took away from this conference is that I need to help my girls remember the feelings they experienced and continue to give them opportunities to feel the Savior's love for them. I know that when they truly understand how much the Savior loves them they will strive to become the women He knows they can be. I am grateful I was able to go to the conference and be inspired right along side my girls.”

 

From Sister Krista Day – President, Methuen Ward Young Women Auxiliary

Sister Day's YW Conference Top 5:

“1. Four Laurels from the Exeter Stake helped continually with the First Aid Kit Service Project. They saw a need and stepped in and happily helped out. This was the pure love of Christ, Charity, at work. I felt the spirit from these Young Women. It shown bright and they truly showed how to "Arise and Shine Forth" through their example.

2. A Young Woman from one of the Maine Stake saw a need to jump in and help with the service project in a different area. She stayed glued to the spot and refilled items non-stop for a half hour until it quieted down some. I didn't know her at all but it touched my heart that we have young women across the world OBSERVING when help is needed and then doing what needs to be done to help.

3. When you get a group of people together with one heart, one mind, and one purpose, they accomplish a lot!

4. I will always, always remember the tangible spirit in the chapel when we were prepping for Sister Dalton and Elder Eyring's arrival. It was empowering and it helped me reset my priorities. I was so very filled with the spirit that I was consumed with it. Actually I felt the description in 2 Nephi 4:21, "He hath filled me with his love, even unto the consuming of my flesh."

I'm so very proud of our young women! They are truly the chosen generation. I hope and pray they will identify with the divinity within each of them so that they may be strong and consistent in living the standards and principles of the gospel so that one day, they will enter the holy house of the Lord, the temple, to serve missions, to be married eternally, and to become all they are to become.”

From Sister Jen Alves – Secretary, Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency

“This summer has been so full of spiritual activities and I have loved it! What could be more fun than

Hanging out with the youth of Zion and the leaders that lead them? I can honestly say this has been the best summer of my life! Really! It has also been the busiest and fastest summer of my life!

In retrospect, I cannot decide which I loved more; having Sister Dalton visit our Stake, going on Trek, or being part of Girls Camp? They were all exciting for me and I'm glad I got to be part of each one!

From Girls Camp I mostly remember the Kingdom of God cake that we managed to build among all the other jobs that had to be done. It was symbolic of life itself. We have so many jobs to do and we build the Kingdom at the same time. It cannot be done by one person alone. It takes many hands. It is not always easy, but it is always worth it! I also totally loved the edible gold dust, the pink frosting, and the princess puff cake balls! Now that was fu-un!

Trek! What's not to love? In my house we say, "I'd rather be Trekking!" Being surrounded by Saints for three days straight is a dream come true! With Brother Perkes as our guide we learned faith building lessons every step of the way. The fresh air and exercise were the icing on my cake (hehe)! We can and will do hard things and we'll be much better off for them. The women's pull really rocked (no pun intended?) my world and I hope and pray I get to do that again!

Having Sister Elaine S. Dalton, our general Y.W President, visit and speak with us was such a thrill! What a great way to cap off the summer! It's too bad we had to let her go back home. My favorite quote from her was, "One virtuous young woman led by the spirit can change the world…… and I know you will."

I feel so blessed to have been part of all these wonderful events. I have met some of the best people on earth including our youth who are the next generation of leaders in building the kingdom of God here on earth and in the eternities to come. I love you guys!”

 

From Sister Sandra Reyes – 2nd Counselor, Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency

“This summer was filled with blessings and manifestations of the spirit. We were able to prepare and organize these activities with the feeling of approval from Heavenly Father. That is why the answer to "Why do we do this?" is very clear to me. We do these things because every member in the  Exeter Stake is willing to serve without reservation. They are obedient to the promptings of the spirit and act accordingly. Therefore we see blessings pouring from the sky as we hear our young women testify of the gospel with certainty that is true, no doubts. We see them as leaders ready to serve at any given time and set goals to get married in the Temple because they understand the importance of an eternal family. They know they are Daughters of our Heavenly Father and have divine qualities. I am grateful  I had the opportunity to serve and be blessed to have been a witness to all the summer Stake activities and the miracles that took place.  I know that my Redeemer lives and that he loves the youth of this true church. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.” 

 

Sister Renee Kelly – 1st Counselor, Exeter Stake Young Women Presidency

As I reflect on this past summer I am filled with a gratitude so deep I feel it is impossible to express with words.  I am first and foremost grateful to my Savior who has blessed me beyond measure by placing me here at this time and in this place to work within such a wonderful organization

Our summer has overflowed with the spirit and in no small measure that was due to each individual who participated in camp, trek and young womens conference.  Whether your involvement was behind the scenes or front and center the addition of YOUR drop of oil helped to magnify the spirit for us all. 

President Gordon B. Hinckley said, "It is not enough to give alms to those in need. For as important as that is, a gift without the giver has no meaning; the person who gives of himself with what he has to offer feeds three---'Himself, his hungering neighbor and me [the Savior]"  

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for so freely giving of your time, your talents and yourselves to bless us all.

From Sister Shannon Gish – Exeter Stake Young Women President

The idea of being Zion continues to resonate in my heart as I reflect on our summer full of spiritual growth. I have learned in profound ways that, truly, “In the strength of the Lord, we can do all things” even hard things. Without Christ as the center of our lives, we are powerless.

My dearest Sisters, I hope you know of our deep and abiding love for each of you – of my deep and abiding love for each of you. I feel so incredibly blessed and grateful beyond words that I am yoked with you – together - with our Savior in this great work. You are tremendous Women doing extraordinary things and bringing down miracles from heaven into the lives of our beautiful young women and their families. May you feel of our Father in Heaven’s pure love increased within you, your families and in the organizations over which you preside. May we be One; “knit together in unity and love, determined in one mind and in one heart” to build up Zion in preparation for the coming of Christ.

Photos courtesy of Sister Heather Van Gieson, Sister Jen Alves, Sister Brittany Soucy and Sister Jen Perkes

Trek photos can be downloaded for free at this site: http://jenperkes.zenfolio.com/p1017292499/h40252716#h40252716