Bishopric message
Dear brothers and Sisters,
For those of you that intended to view our sacrament meeting virtually today, I apologize that you were not able to do so. Unfortunately, we experienced some unexpected technical difficulties with our YouTube streaming. The streaming was successfully tested earlier in the day, but when we went “live” it failed to function properly. We attempted to troubleshoot the issue unsuccessfully, and then tried to set up a Zoom meeting real-time. Zoom now requires passwords or manual admittance, things that we were not prepared for. Again, I apologize for the inconvenience. I know many of you look forward to being part of our meetings each week.
We had excellent messages presented by our Deacon’s Quorum Presidency and one of their leaders: Ben Hawes (President), Matthew Fotheringham (1st Counselor), Mason Lear (2nd Counselor), Jackson Jardine (Secretary), and Nate Fotheringham (Advisor).
I will not be able to replicate the spirit that was felt today, and the reverent way the messages were presented, but I would like to share some of the great points that each of these good brethren discussed:
President Hawes – How my testimony has grown over the last 12 months
During COVID-19 time, being away from sacrament meeting, I have missed participating in the ordinance of the sacrament with the other young men. At home administering the sacrament at times can become a little casual. I also, have missed pondering about the Savior as we listen to the sacrament hymn in our chapel.
In 3 Nephi, Jesus Christ visits the people and administers the sacrament to them. Reminding us that he was fulfilling a commandment from the father, by showing us the the importance of the sacrament in our lives. I am grateful that the Lord has made it possible for us to take the sacrament both at home and at church. I feel closer to Christ when I am able to take upon me his name.
I have learned to become more reliant on my own testimony as I have been isolated from my church leaders and fellow quorum members for months. In Alma 22:16 it explains that if we bow down before the Lord, call on his name in faith, believing that we shall receive, then shall we receive the hope which we desire. I am really grateful for hope at this time.
Matthew Fotheringham – Trust in the Lord
The Lord has blessed us with the earth to perform our labors. We should be grateful for that gift and do our part by taking care of it.
Matt was grateful that he and his father were safe after a shooting took place close to their parked car near where they were walking their dog.
D&C 6:36 “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not”. God is always looking out for us. God answers our prayers.
Mason Lear – How my testimony grows
My testimony has grown over the last year. Shortly after I turned 12 years old I was able to perform baptisms in the Bountiful Temple. Then I was able to do the same in the Jordan River Temple. I felt the same feelings and spirit in both temples. Feelings that I had never felt before.
Scripture study has helped me grow my faith. In experiencing COVID, my faith has grown, as I see that God prevails in everything. Serving others helps us grow closer to the Savior.
Jackson Jardine – How I know God loves me and is aware of me
I have been able to feel the Holy Ghost more during Covid-19 time.
Alma 34:18-21 “Yea, Cry unto him for mercy; for he is mighty to save. Yea, humble yourselves, and continue to pray unto him. Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea over all your flocks. Cry unto him in your houses, yea over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening.”
This tells us that the Lord cares about the details of our lives. God wants what is best for us, we just need to ask him in prayer. Jesus offered a prayer in the Americas that was so powerful and unique that it could not be written. Jesus took the time to bless the individual, not just the groups of people.
Nate Fotheringham – How my testimony of Jesus Christ has grown over the last 12 months
Many things have changed of the last year, including our Sunday worship, missionary work and school. We have been guided and prepared by a prophet to be better equipped to handle the current circumstances: Changes in the way we minister to others and the way our gospel teaching is more home centered. The way we serve and love our neighbors has been enhanced and has created a greater sense of unity among us all.
We need to remember that Heavenly Father and Jesus, will not abandon us. They truly love us all.
Thank you to each of these brethren for sharing their lessons of faith with us today. I am so impressed with the youth of the Parley’s 3rd Ward. They are a choice generation that embraces their divine calling of being gatherers of Israel. May the Lord continue to bless them with their righteous desires. And may they find joy, happiness and peace in a troubled world, by staying close to their loving Heavenly Father.
Have a great sabbath day,
Bishop Okland
