Family History plays such an important role in the gathering of Israel and luckily there are so many ways to participate. One of the easiest ways to get started is by logging onto family search and learning how to index. As you get into family history, the names become more than just names on a paper. They come to life. My family history experience started when I saw my mom and my grandpa doing it. It made me want to learn more about family history work. I’ve also learned that family history can be overwhelming if you don’t take it one step at a time. Start small and build on it. Research stories about your ancestors, record memories you have of your ancestors, do whatever you can but start somewhere.
When I first received my family history stake calling as a 12-year-old, I was absolutely terrified. I hated the idea of talking in front of groups of people, I was terrified of messing up, and I didn’t think that I was capable of being able to teach others about something I felt so unfamiliar with. But the last two years have really grown me as a person. I have gained a testimony of family history and temple work, I have grown more confident in presenting in front of people, I have learned that I can do more than I think I am capable of, and I have learned for myself how big of a role family history work plays in God’s plan of happiness. Family history and Temple work has had a huge impact on my life. I hope that by participating in it, your life can be impacted as well. My challenge to each ward member is to take a few minutes to log on to family search and try something that pushes you out of your comfort zone… because that’s where we grow!
-Jadyn Falslev