Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Wonderful Wednesday: Missionaries

Dear Sisters,

This is the last Wonderful Wednesday message I'll be sending out as Bishop released me on Sunday. Its bittersweet to no longer be doing these messages.  It always seemed a little stressful to find a new video, write a new message, and remember to get it posted by Wednesday morning. But I always felt myself uplifted after watching these wonderful clips and feeling the spirit.  I hope they have helped each of you.

This weeks message is about missionaries.  We love the Elders.  They do so much for our ward, our friends and neighbors, and for the building up of the kingdom of God.  They work tirelessly every day to find those people who are in need of strength and truth.  As members, it is our responsibility to do our part and pray for those opportunities to be missionaries ourselves.  Every member a missionary.

However, as this video played, it was more than every member a missionary that came to mind.  As sisters, we are the ones who can truly help our Elders with those needs that the spirit cannot fulfill.  Each meal, kind word, or bit of encouragement helps these young men complete their 2 year calling.  Any mother who has sent a son out has prayed for a sister who would watch over her son.  We encourage each of you to be that sister.  Treat each elder the way you hope and pray your sons will be treated.  These young men, and women, are doing the Lord's work. Please help us make sure they are well treated and cared for.  

(Click to view the clip)

Missionaries

Love,

The Relief Society Presidency

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Wonderful Wednesday: Humanitarian Aid

Dear Sisters,

In the wake of these most recent terrible storms, our brothers and sisters in Alabama and other areas are in great need.  They are in need of shelter, food, and many other things.  Our husbands, and others, have been called to give of their time and efforts to help remove debris, and do whatever else they can.

Some of us may have thought, why can't I go? Or perhaps, I'm glad that at least someone in our family is able to serve those who are in need.  We want each of you to know that even if you are staying home you are helping those people whom your husbands and sons have gone to serve.  Without your support it would be much more, if not impossible, for the necessary aid to be given.  We are all doing our part in one way or another.

The Church's Humanitarian Aid program is astounding.  The Church is constantly administering aid to those in need.  We are so blessed to be members of a church that is constantly giving without "being a respecter of persons." Regardless of race, economic status, religion, or any other categorization, the church extends its helpful hands simply to improve the lives of the people of the world.  It is our hope that we of us can follow in this example and reach out to those around us who are in need.

(Please click the link to view the video)

Humanitarian Program

Love,

The Relief Society Presidency

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Wonderful Wednesday: Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

Good Morning Sisters!

We hope that you had a wonderful weekend and were able to be spiritually fed through the dedication of the Atlanta Temple.  We hope each of you will find time in your insanely busy lives to go and participate in those life-saving ordinances.  We are truly blessed to have the temple within our midst again.

This Sunday, as we're sure you know,  is Mother's Day.  Each and every one of us, whether married or not, whether we have kids or not,  are mothers.  We all influence each and every child we come in contact with.  It is our responsibility to be the example to all children, that we would be for our own.

As mothers, we understand the challenge and difficulty that comes with the job.  There are so many long days/nights that test us in every possibly way.  The illness, injuries, and emotions wear on us day after day.  It is one of, if not the most, thankless job there is, at least in words.   Every time you get a hug, a smile, a laugh, something adorable is said, or your child accomplishes something new, you feel renewed and filled with joy.  Being a mother is truly one of the hardest things each of us will every do, but it is also the best thing we could ever do.  No other occupation or past time will ever give you the satisfaction that comes with first steps, first smiles, or even high school graduation.

We encourage each of you to really listen to the words spoken by Elder Holland.  The Lord loves each and every one of us.  Cherish those precious moments and have a wonderful Mother's Day.

(Please Click the Link to View the Clip)

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

Love,

The Relief Society Presidency