Dear Brothers and Sisters,
We read in Alma 50:23 “But behold there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi, since the days of Nephi, than in the days of Moroni, yea, even at this time, in the twenty and first year of the reign of the judges.” This time was one of war, in fact the Nephites had just fought off an attack by the Lamanites and the Lamanites were preparing another attack. How could “there have never been a happier time” when I am sure there was much stress, anxiety and despair?
During this time the Nephites were industrious and worked together to protect their families and cities. They even had to adjust how they defended themselves from what they were used to. They were not idle. They were righteous and kept the commandments and therefore prospered in the land. I see the Elk Ridge Ward in these versus as our Relief Society works together to make 600 medical masks, our families are defending themselves from Satan as we study from Come, Follow Me and worthily partake of the sacrament each week in our home. Our youth are anxiously engaged in a good cause as serve and minister to members of our ward. The primary children are learning songs as they play Bingo from the Primary Presidency, and many, many more acts of love, service and learning. My prayer is that we too may look back and say “there was never a happier time.”
Items of note:
· Beginning immediately, we have been directed not to hold Relief Society, Elders Quorum or Sunday School via online. Please take this opportunity to minister to your neighbors and families to whom you have been assigned.
· Temple Recommends can be issued or renewed by meeting with a member of the Bishopric and Stake Presidency. Please contact Brother Ryan Jensen to set up an online appointment. A member of the Bishopric will instruct how the process will play out.
· Virtual lessons from the missionaries. The Stake Presidency have invited all families of our Stake to participate in the “Blessings of the Restoration” by receiving virtual lessons from the missionaries. These will be coordinated through the EQ, RS and Ward Mission Leader.
· Our ward has been assigned to clean the church house (May-August). Brother Stocking is working closely with the Bishopric to give younger families opportunities to clean on a revised cleaning assignment. If you are asked to help and are uncomfortable cleaning the church let us know. It will only be your family in the building as we stagger times and assignments.
· Online video meetings with the Bishop can be arranged through Brother Ryan Jensen.
Those who joined last week with Clay Olsen, I hope you were able to have a safe and open discussion with your youth about overcoming pornography. It was a great meeting.
I pray for your happiness and health. Please let me know if you need anything.
With Love,
Bishop Allen