If you missed Fires of Faith on BYUtv.  You may still see it from their archives.  Search for "Fires of Faith."  Choose "See the Good | Watch all three episodes of Fires of Faith."  The link is: 
http://byutv.org/seethegood/post/Watch-all-three-episodes-of-Fires-of-Faith.aspx
Enjoy learning about the Bible!

Do You Want to Ignite Your Children's Love of Reading?

Jacob G. wrote this paper about his reading legacy for a school paper.  Jacob G. makes some recommendations of which books ignited his love of reading toward the end of his paper.  Shauna C. shared recently her belief that all children will love reading when you find the right book for them.  Check out some of Jacob’s favorites for yourself or your children.

My Reading Legacy

            Beautiful vibrations radiated from the sweet lips of my mother they reached my ears but I had no knowledge of the written word. My mom read to me before I could understand her. She would take me to the rocking chair and I would sit on her lap while she read to me. I was intrigued by the pictures and relished them with her warm reassuring attention. At that point I had no idea of the wondrous world of literature that lay before me. My literature legacy starts with ignorance of a child.

            My reading odyssey has been anything but simple. I grew up in Germany and loved all my friends but I didn’t learn English. I went to kindergarten twice.  First I learned the German Alphabet, then the English one. I took a while put it all together. In Georgia I discovered what reading really was. I found the lines made sense. B plus E plus D equaled bed! What started as pointless marks were now meaningful words.  

            I read every single word I could find on boxes, bracelets, pencils, containers, and books… Oh the books I read: Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein were my favorite authors. With Where The Side Walk Ends under my arm, I set off to school with my new knowledge. My high pride was ripped down the moment I walk into school. All the other kids had already known how to read, they even read thick books!  

            For a long time I did not read, but finally in 3^rd grade my teacher read a book called Where the Red Fern Grows. That was the first book that made me sad. I decided to try other books that were harder than what I used to read. I loved them. I found The Magic Tree House series, The Secrets of Droon series, and the Redwall series.

            Now I read almost every day. I have read all kinds of books. My favorite author is Brian Jacques. I am in the process of reading two books Eulilia and Atherton: The House of Power. I really enjoy reading. Every once in a while you stumble upon some bad books, but that has nothing to do with all the other good books out there, so go out in search for the perfect book—there and back again, a reading legacy.

The last of the events scheduled for How God Became English--The Making of the King James Bible are coming up over the next week.  I thought that the genealogists may be interested in the presentation on preserving their family bibles.  In addition, I am excited to hear from someone who has first hand experience in translating the Bible.  For those of you who enjoy thrillers, the last lecture is spotlighting an author of the historical thriller The King James Conspiracy.  

 For more information about how to get to the university, the website address is:

https://web.kennesaw.edu/archives/exhibits_kjb

October 25, 2011
Lecture: Bible Translation: Theory, Practice, and First-Hand Experience
Athenaeum Gallery, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Dr. Brent Strawn, Associate Professor of Old Testament at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University will address the history of the theory and practice of Bible translation, citing several examples including his own recent work on the translation of the Common English Bible. Dr. Strawn holds both a master's of Divinity and doctorate from Princeton Theological Seminary.

October 29, 2011
Workshop: The Family Bible: A Historical and Genealogical Resource
Athenaeum Gallery, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Librarians from the Georgia room at the Central Library of the Cobb County Public Library System will join Museums, Archives & Rare Books staff to offer owners of family Bibles information on how to use their treasured family heirlooms as a tool when doing genealogical and historical research. Presentations will provide background on the history of the family Bible, review resources available at the Georgia Room, and offer advice on how to preserve books. The presentations will be followed by small break-out sessions in which guests can discuss particular issues with our experts. Families are welcome!

November 7, 2011
Book Discussion: The King James Conspiracy
Athenaeum Gallery, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Phillip Depoy, author of the historical thriller The King James Conspiracy, will share his thoughts on the novel's creation, the research involved, and subsequent reactions. Mr. Depoy is the director of theatre at Clayton State University, an EDGAR award winning playwright, and celebrated author. Copies of The King James Conspiracy will be available for sale.

Fires of Faith: William Tyndale and the King James Bible

Enrich your experience of visiting How God Became English: The Making of the King James Bible, the exhibit at Kennesaw State University mentioned in an earlier post. 


Watch the three-part docudrama produced by filmmaker Lee Groberg called Fires of Faith: William Tyndale and the King James Bible.


To be able to watch shows live on BYUtv, you need to go to the website and register for an account.  To register for an account, go to the webpage for BYUtv.  In the upper-right-hand corner of the page, click on the Register button.  You must be registered and logged on to watch live BYUtv.  (Another way to find the registration link is to click on Watch, then Live TV.)


The program airs on BYUtv at the following times:


Part 1
Sunday, Oct. 16, at 8pm ET / 6pm MT & 11pm ET / 9pm MT
Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 9pm ET / 7pm MT & 12am ET / 10pm MT


Part 2
Sunday, Oct. 23, at 8pm ET / 6pm MT & 11pm ET / 9pm MT
Wednesday, Oct. 26, at 9pm ET / 7pm MT & 12am ET / 10pm MT


Part 3 
Sunday, Oct. 30, at 8pm ET / 6pm MT & 11pm ET / 9pm MT
Wednesday, Nov. 2, at 9pm ET / 7pm MT & 12am ET / 10pm MT


Have fun learning!

400 YEARS OF THE KING JAMES BIBLE

Kennesaw State University is one of 40 sites chosen to host the traveling exhibition: Manifold Greatness: The Creation and Afterlife of the King James Bible.  The Department of Museums, Archives & Rare Books welcomes you to join others in the community in celebrating the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible.  KSU's title for the exhibit is: "How God Became English: The Making of the King James Bible."  The exhibit opens October 4, 2011 in the Athenaeum Gallery on the 2nd floor of the Horace Sturgis Library.  Examine rare artifacts, engage with multimedia interactives, and explore the creation of one of the most influential books in history. Both self-guided and docent-led tours (upon reservation) are available.

Bring your families to see original manuscripts from the 1500's and 1600's.  The exhibition is open during library hours:
Monday - Thursday    7:00 A.M. - 12:00 Midnight
Friday    7:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Saturday    8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.
Sunday    1:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M.

AN INTERESTING ARTICLE TO SUPPLEMENT YOUR FAMILY'S VISIT TO THE EXHIBIT AND THE STUDY OF THE HISTORY OF THE KING JAMES BIBLE IS FOUND IN THE AUGUST 2011 ENSIGN.  The article is titled "400 years of the King James Bible."
The online link to the article is: http://lds.org/ensign/2011/08/400-years-of-the-king-james-bible?lang=eng&query=king+james+bible

The traveling exhibit was organized by the Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, D.C., and the American Library Association Public Programs Office. It is based on an exhibition of the same name developed by the Folger Shakespeare Library and the Bodleian Library, University of Oxford, with assistance from the Harry Ransom Center of the University of Texas. The traveling exhibition was made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The NEH traveling exhibit will also be housed in the Athenaeum Gallery and run through October 28, 2011.

The link for the KSU site describing the exhibit is:
https://web.kennesaw.edu/archives/exhibits_kjb

ENJOY LITERACY!

Why Read? from Susannah M.

Hi everyone! Susan graciously asked me to contribute a post along the same lines as Sharon’s and Carolyn’s. You all listened to me for months and you know how important I think it is to read and learn, but I never really shared why it is important to me personally. So you ask, why do I read?

Growing up, I was surrounded by books. Literally. Shelves, stacks, piles, you name it. I grew up watching people I loved and respected as they sought to learn and understand everything from history to health to… well, everything in between. I think in part I became a reader because I didn’t know any other way! But even more, my mother always said that you can learn anything if you can read. Wow!! I wondered if that were really true. For the most part, yes. There are some things you must master through experience, but there’s a great deal you can gain from study. The sky is the limit! I love that idea because it makes me feel like no matter what situation I am in, no matter where I am – or WHO I am -- I can better myself just by reading a book. And that’s true for you, too!

As I look back, I realize I’ve gone through different phases in my reading life. Growing up, my parents tried hard to expose me to books I would really enjoy just to instill a love of reading. As I got older, I started to turn to books for information. Truth be told, I loved my textbooks and never got rid of them, and I also found lots of other books like how-to’s, etc., that I loved as references. (I don’t think I read a single fiction book for the first year of my life as a mother – there was too much I was trying to learn!) For a while, it almost felt frivolous to settle down with a good story. More recently though, I’ve rediscovered the joy of a well-told story, and I have been enjoying many of the same books Sharon wrote about in her recent post. Stories capture not only belief systems and values, they teach us about the human experience and the people around us. That’s worthwhile learning, too!

Bottom line, the reason I read is to take me beyond myself. Whether it’s through learning something that expands my mind or experiencing something that teaches me about my heart, books take me there. You don’t have to be a book-lover for a book to touch your life. Pick one up today! J

Now that you know why I read, here are my top five pieces of advice:

1.     Not all sources are created equal. Just because it’s a scriptural commentary doesn’t mean the author has any right to an opinion. Just because it’s on the NY Times Bestsellers list doesn’t mean it’s a good read. Be careful to find second sources if there’s a fact you want to establish.

2.     Read both to enjoy yourself and to improve yourself – find balance between the two. I find switching back and forth between fiction and nonfiction keeps me the most motivated.

3.     Read works from different periods of time. Not only will you learn about different peoples and times, you will have a better feel for quality writing.

4.     Let the Spirit guide. If you don’t have a good feeling about whatever it is you’re reading, put it down and try something else. I tend to feel and channel the books I read pretty deeply, so this is an important one for me.

5.     Never stop! If you think you’re not a big reader, find something you enjoy and start from there. Once you build the habit, the rest will follow. Reading can be fun – I truly believe that!

Susan also asked me to list a few of my favorite books. Like I said, many of my favorites are titles Sharon already listed a few weeks ago. To her list, I’ll add a few more from a range of genres. They’ve all been important to me somewhere along the way!

 A Circle of Quiet by Madeline L’Engle

The Best Loved Poems of the American People selected by Hazel Felleman

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (or any of her other works…)

Tess of the D’Urbevilles by Thomas Hardy

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

The Great Divorce and The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster (this is a middle grades book)

Anne of Green Gables (and any other work) by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child by Dr. Marc Weissbluth

I’m a Day Late and a Dollar Short… and It’s Okay by JoAnn Larsen

The Quiet Heart by Patricia Holland

14,000 Things to Be Happy About by Barbara Ann Kipfer

Happy reading!

The book, Daughters in My Kingdom, was given free to members of the Relief Society organization of the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  If you are not a member of the organization, but are interested in a copy, you may purchase one for $3 at:

http://store.lds.org/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product3_715839595_10557_21131_-1__3074457345616890722

I saw this fabulous video today about Daughters in My Kingdom.
I wanted to encourage you to "open the gift" and read.  Please watch the
video.  It will inspire you to get out your book today.

http://www.ldsliving.com/story/66035-daughters-in-my-kingdom

Another, more informational, link about how the book came to be is found at:

http://mormonchannel.org/programs/relief-society-daughters-episode-1?lang=eng

The above link is to a 30 minute interview of the RS Presidency that was done as part of a Mormon Channel series.

Women were disciples of Christ at the time of Christ.  Our Relief Society president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Julie Beck, has said that reading Daughters in My Kingdom will help us become better disciples of Christ today.

Enjoy "opening the gift" as the first video encourages you to do!

"Envious of Belle" by Sharon H.

I am happy to add to the blog and share my enthusiasm for reading.  I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to read!  It is one of my very favorite things to do!

When I was growing up, in the summer my girlfriend and I used to walk many blocks up and down hills to go to the library.  I remember being filled with the desire to read every book in the library!  I must confess I still get overwhelmed with that feeling to this day.

And the scene in Beauty and Beast when the Beast gives Belle the library!   Can you imagine - a room full of books top to bottom?!  It would be like heaven!   :)

Watch Belle being given the library.

I am always looking for a new and exciting book to read.  I am always looking to see what people are reading - in the airport, at the beach.

I love attending the night time book group.  Due to the diverse interests of our group, it allows me to be exposed to a wider range of books than I would normally seek out.  And I find that I enjoy them!

I found some quotes which aptly express reading and its importance.  I will share a few:

“To read is to fly: it is to soar to a point of vantage which gives a view over wide terrains of history, human variety, ideas, shared experience and the fruits of many inquiries.”
- A C Grayling, Financial Times (in a review of A History of Reading by Alberto Manguel)

 "Wear the old coat and buy the new book.” - Austin Phelps

"He that loves a book will never want a faithful friend, a wholesome counselor, a cheerful companion, an effectual comforter. By study, by reading, by thinking, one may innocently divert and pleasantly entertain himself, as in all weathers, as in all fortunes.” - Barrow

“We read to know we are not alone.” - C.S. Lewis

“You're the same today as you'll be in five years except for the people you meet and the books you read.” - Charlie "Tremendous" Jones

"A truly great book should be read in youth, again in maturity and once more in old age, as a fine building should be seen by morning light, at noon and by moonlight."- Robertson Davies

"So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, Go throw your tv set away, And in its place you can install, A lovely bookshelf on the wall." - Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Here are some of my favorite books:

Two from Galilee by Marjorie Holmes
A love story about Mary and Joseph.

Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
Classic tale of good vs. evil during the French Revolution.

A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Story also set during French Revolution.  Setting is Paris and London.

All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriott
Series about Welsh vetinarian.

Fannie Flagg - Southern author (I Still Dream of You, Can't Wait to Get to Heaven,  A Redbird Christmas, Daisy Fay and the Miracle Man, Fried Green Tomatoes)

Harry Potter - J. K. Rowling

The Hiding Place - Corrie Ten Boom
Story of a Dutch woman who helped Jews escape and then was imprisoned with her sister.   Her story of the power of love and forgiveness and belief in the Savior.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Series of letters between an author and citizens of an island that was occupied by the Germans during WWII.

Harry Turtledove
Series about "alternative history."  (What if)

Mitford series - Jan Karon    
Stories about an Episcopal minister in NC and his flock. (At Home at Mitford; A Light in the Window; These High, Green Hills)

A Town Like Alice by Neville Shute
Story of an English teacher forced on a "death march" by the Japanese, her meeting an Australian soldier, her search for him after the war.

James Michener
Historical fiction (Hawaii, The Source, Centennial)

Thank you Sharon.  Enjoy her list.  You didn't even have to go to the airport or the beach to see what others were reading!

"To Kill A Mockingbird" -- A Meaningful Book to Carolyn M.

Having been asked to share one book that I really like or that really means a lot to me is like asking me to share my favorite scripture: it changes from day to day! But it has been nice to think back on so many of the books that I have loved reading through the years. (I really only started reading when I started having children and had all of this time while nursing babies! And right after moving here – 26 years ago- we formed a book group that I have loved attending as I’ve read books that I’m sure I would never had read otherwise! And I’ve loved discussions with sisters that have become dear friends because of the time we’ve spent together reading and discussing books. I love book groups!) 

I was not an avid reader in my youth but was required to read “To Kill a Mockingbird” sometime in my early teens. Although I grew up in the 60’s I lived in a small town in Utah and knew very little about segregation or the civil rights movement. The only black people I’d ever seen were at the airport in Salt Lake. I was very sheltered! So reading about Atticus Finch, raising two children alone in Alabama during the depression was quite an eye opener for me. Atticus is a model of any character I love to read about: someone with great moral decency, who is determined to admire the good in everybody; is not judgmental but very forgiving; who doesn’t lose faith in humanity in their capacity to do good even when they are surrounded by the evils of the world; teaches his children compassion and understanding and sympathy as found in the following quote: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from their point of view . . . until you climb into his skin and walk around in it”. And isn’t that what we are all trying to do here on earth? : To learn to love and appreciate people – all people – by looking for and recognizing their goodness! 

I love any book that leaves me feeling uplifted for having read it. I love a book that makes me want to be better; to try harder! I read “To Kill a Mockingbird” again last summer, as it was the 50th anniversary of its printing and was happy to see that I still loved it for those very same reasons! Even though my perspective has changed now that I’m “grown” and actually live in the South, I still found those values Atticus Finch was teaching his children are just as important today as when I first read them. 

Keep up the good work!

Hello everyone,

First of all, thank you to everyone who has signed up to read with us in our Summer Reading Initiative. We still have a few books that could use more readers, so please take a look at the list below (previous post) and email me at yourliteracyspecialist@gmail.com if you make a selection.

Second, as many of you may already know, I have been released as the Shallowford Ward Literacy Specialist and am moving into Primary. It is a bittersweet change because I love being in Primary, but I will miss the great opportunity it has been to learn and grow alongside all of you. Thank you for your support and enthusiasm! I think we've all learned something along the way, and I hope each of you will continue to pursue knowledge and learning in all its varieties.

Now for the good news! Susan H. will be taking over! She is both dynamic and knowledgeable, and I am looking forward to following her down whatever new roads she takes us. Thanks, Susan!

In closing, I just wanted to share with you one last scripture, truly the motto for all we have done this past year:

78 Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;

79 Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—
80 That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you.

D&C 88:78-80

Never stop learning! The Lord has great plans for you. And never doubt that He stands willing to help those who seek to learn and grow. I know personally how true that is, and I challenge you to put it to the test. Keep up the good work!

Happy learning!

Love,
Susannah

Let's get started!

The submissions are in, the list is final, and we're ready to go. Thanks to everyone who signed up today to read books with our young women. I know many of you did not get a chance to see the sign-up sheet, so I am posting the choices below. Please email me at yourliteracyspecialist@gmail.com and let me know which book (or books) you'd like to read!

About logistics, please plan to finish up reading by the end of July. I'll be in touch with each of you to set up our meeting/social gatherings to discuss. We'll just meet in small groups according to book, but the more women we have reading each book, the better!

Let me know if you have any questions, and thanks again! I'm looking forward to sharing this reading experience with you -- and all our fabulous young women as well!

BOOK DESCRIPTIONS
The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis (Medium length)
About an 11-yr. old girl in Afghanistan disguising herself as a boy to support her family.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck (Shorter)
Two lonely and alienated men supporting each other and working as farm laborers, trying to achieve a dream they share

Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank Gilbreth (Medium)
Humorous story of a family with twelve children!

Anthem by Ayn Rand (Medium)
About a society where individualism has been eliminated. Written before Orwell’s 1984 but similar in its stance against collective society plans.

The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson (Long)
Two character’s stories at the 1983 Chicago World’s Fair

Funny in Farsi by Firoozeh Dumas (Medium)
A memoir of the author’s experience growing up Iranian in the US

Siddartha by Hermann Hesse (Short)
About one man’s pursuit of understanding and truth. Parallels much of the life of Buddha.

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair (Medium)
Groundbreaking book exposing corruption in American industry, abuse in industrial labor, and food safety

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass (Shorter)
About the author’s life and path from slavery to freedom, learning, etc.

The Crucible by Arthur Miller (Short)
A play about the Salem Witch Trials, written as a critique of McCarthyism

Rebecca by Dame Daphne du Maurier (Long)
Kind of combination love story, ghost story about a woman who meets a widower. Rebecca is the name of his late wife.

The Cay by Theodore Taylor (Short)
Story of a boy whose boat is sunk and he is shipwrecked on an island with a black man and a cat. Message is about friendship and not judging on color.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner (Long)
About a group of boy’s trapped in “the Glade” and supporting themselves, trying to escape out through a maze

No Promises in the Wind by Irene Hunt (Medium)
About a young boy’s struggle to survive during the Depression.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Long)
About a girl’s efforts to survive in a postapocalyptic country’s yearly gladiator-style fight to the death

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey (Long)
About patients in a mental ward, individuality, striving toward personal freedom.

The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell (Long)
The story of a young warrior-in-training during the ninth century in England.

As always, HAPPY READING!!

Summer Reading Kick-Off!

Memorial Day is behind us, school is out, the temperatures are climbing... it's summer! And with summer comes summer reading. There are different seasons of life, some of which afford more time in the summer than others. But no matter what stage you're in, I hope you'll always make time for great reads. I invite you to join me as we kick off our new focus area for the summer months! But let me explain...

Over the next two months, we're going to try something new.There will be weeks when the blog itself is quiet, but we'll still be reading and learning. Here's the plan: at present, I am busy collecting the summer reading assignments for the young women in our ward. They have some interesting selections! My goal is that we as sisters can back up these lovely young ladies by reading along with them. Not only will this help them in their studies, but it will be a fun opportunity for them to get to know us -- and for us to get to know them! If you follow this blog and are not in the Shallowford Ward, please contact me at yourliteracyspecialist@gmail.com to get your ward involved too!

As soon as I get the list finalized, I will post it here on the blog. I invite each of you to volunteer to read at least one of the selections. We will take a few weeks to read then follow up with some fun chances to discuss, share, and compare notes with our young women! I hope you'll be brave and volunteer. This should be a fun way to spice up our summer reading and make new friends along the way.

Thanks in advance for your support, and stay tuned for more soon!

Stay tuned!

Another great literacy focus area is in the works.... stay tuned!

Great Gospel Reading: A Grand Finale!

I love alliteration! Three G's in one title. Not bad!

This week is our final week of great gospel reads -- recommendations from our fellow sisters in the Relief Society. This week we feature a range of topics. I'm sure there's at least one (or more) you haven't read, so check them out. Enjoy!

When Your Prayers Seem Unanswered by S. Michael Wilcox
"This book focuses on how Christ is there for us, watches over and blesses us, but is not quick to save us from the experiences we need. It has many examples from the scriptures and a few of the author's own experiences. It is not a deep dive into doctrine, but a comforting, and uplifting reminder of His love and plan. It helps refocus an eternal perspective in difficult times and rekindle hope."

The Holy Temple by Boyd K. Packer
"A concise, clear explanation of temples and why temple work sets our religion apart from other churches. I think it is especially meaningful for those who have already attended the temple and want to increase their understanding and appreciation for the work we do there."

The First 2000 Years by W. Cleon Skousen
"This book was really captivating to me. It offers intelligent and in-depth explanations of the Bible from Adam to 2000 years after. It talks about things like why Adam was given charge to rule over Eve, why we can trust Moses' account of Genesis, and how many people were probably on the earth at the time of Noah. Anyway, this book was so interesting to read. It was like going to a really good gospel doctrine class every time you read it. It really exercised my brain in an exciting way to think about all those things."

The Screwtape Letters and Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
"Although these are probably not nonfiction, I would not classify them as fiction either. CS Lewis was a very insightful and inspired author who teaches truths in a very clear way. Although he was not LDS, his writing is thought provoking and helps me to reflect on my own beliefs and ideas about gospel related issues. He also helps me to question my beliefs about different issues which then strengthens my testimony."

Yearning for the Living God Reflections from the Life of F. Enzio Busche, Edited and Compiled by Tracie A. Lamb
"A book like this that has such great insight should be read over and over.  Sometimes the meaning will change as we go through the different stages of our lives."

Great Gospel Reading: Latter-day Prophets

This week we feature another great list of recommended books from the sisters in our Relief Society. These follow a theme on our latter-day prophets, some books written by them, others written about them. Enjoy!

BY OUR PROPHETS…

The Miracle of Forgiveness by Spencer W. Kimball

“I can't ever learn enough about the Atonement.  Forgiveness is one of those principles I associate with big sins, but this book is a reminder to me that I must repent every day.  It helps me to recognize my weaknesses without damaging my self-esteem or making me feel overwhelmed with my imperfections.  On the contrary, it makes very real the gift of eternal life through repentance and the Atonement of my Savior Jesus Christ.”

Way To Be and Standing For Something by President Hinckley

“I love these books because both of them show how simple it really is to live the gospel and to be happy.  Many times I get sooooo busy with what life throws at us, with kids, church, school, etc… that I need to simply be reminded that I just need to “Be” a faithful daughter of my Heavenly Father and I can do whatever is asked of me.”

ABOUT OUR PROPHETS…

Go Forward with Faith: The Biography of Gordon B. Hinckley by Sheri L. Dew  

“The way in which Sheri Dew shares the life of the prophet is less factual and more inspiring.  She shares his development in a way that inspires me to try to be a better person and to live my life more like the Savior.”

To the Rescue: The Biography of Thomas S. Monson by Heidi S. Swinton

“Heidi Swinton shares the life of the prophet in a way that helps you know him better and understand who he is.  I felt more of a connection to the prophet after reading this biography than I did beforehand.  His life story inspires me to want to reach out to the individual more in the way that the Savior teaches us to.”

Great Gospel Reading: Part 2

This week is Part 2 of our great gospel reading, featuring books recommended by the sisters in our Relief Society. In this post, we'll take a look at a few great books focusing on our Savior, Jesus Christ.


Believing Christ by Stephen E. Robinson (recommended twice!)
"I'm not sure if the timing was just right when I read it for my stake YW calling or if I was able to give it to some friends at the time, but the parable of the Bicycle and other aspects of the book really help teach the atonement. Easy read, but great for the testimony! Also, Following Christ is fabulous by the same author."

"I love this book because his explanation of the Atonement is so personal and meaningful. It strengthened my testimony of the Savior and his love for ME."

The Peacegiver: How Christ Offers to Heal Hearts and Homes by James L. Ferrell
"I loved reading this book because it really helped me understand how we should forgive everyone and not hold grudges because Christ has already paid the price for any sin or wrong doing done to us."

Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage
"Before this year, I've never considered "Jesus the Christ" the type of book to read straight through. I've always used this book as a resource to look up topics. My two boys have been reading this book on their missions and commented in their emails what a great book it was. I decided to pick it up and start reading through it front to back also. I have loved getting this perspective of the Savior's life. I am in awe and grateful for the insight we receive in modern day about the Savior's life. It is a great complement to reading the New Testament this year."

The Hidden Christ by James L. Ferrell
"This book I read last year had the biggest impact on my study of the Old Testament. In particular, one of the last chapters told the summary of the story of the Old Testament in symbolic terms. This was amazing to read these 5-6 pages after I had just finished reading the Old Testament. The chapter told the life story of Christ and in parenthesis noted which story in the Old Testament was symbolic of that (for example, Christ is the only one that can save mankind if we are obedient (Noah)). It was the best summary that testifies of Christ and ties it all to the scriptures that I have ever seen!"

In Honor of All Women

What an amazing few weeks it's been! From Easter to the Atlanta Temple Rededication, I think we've all had an opportunity to strengthen our testimonies -- and our gospel literacy! Now, as we round out these last few weeks of our gospel literacy focus area, it's my hope we can each share a little bit of that with each other.

To do that, I've been in touch with many of you and have been collecting your recommendations for resources that have helped you learn or improve your gospel literacy. Now I'm putting them together to create a ready-reference for all of us! (If I haven't contacted you yet, please feel free to write me with your recommendation at yourliteracyspecialist@gmail.com!)

To start us off, and in honor of Mother's Day, I wanted to devote this week's post to women. I've known many women who find Mother's Day can be one of the hardest days of the year: they hear the virtues of seemingly perfect mothers/women being extolled and are crushed with the fear that they don't  measure up. Today and always, I hope you remember how much the Lord loves each of us. No matter what our walk of life, background, experience, or otherwise, we each have something special to give to those around us. That means YOU -- and don't forget it! Several years ago, there was a talk by Sheri Dew that I loved called Are We Not all Mothers?. This talk changed how I viewed my own womanhood and motherhood, and subsequently how I served in various callings dealing with mothers and children. I invite you to read it whether you are a mother or not! (At the time the talk was given, I was not.) Another favorite talk of mine was from Elder Ballard, entitled Daughters of God. Also a wonderful talk for putting things in perspective. Enjoy!

And now... your recommendations! Several of the favorites that were sent to me dealt specifically with womanhood, women in the scriptures, and mothers. Here are the references along with the comments from the submitters:

No Doubt About It by Sheri Dew

Uplifting anecdotes and powerful words from an amazing and positive sister in the gospel. This book really helped me feel better about who I was and where I was going during a difficult time in my life.

I Am a Mother by Jane Clayson Johnson

This book AND title says it all! This book is such a sweet reminder of our privileged and honored role and title of "Mother". Jane boldly states what is most important in being a mother and that is time with our children. After all, time is so fleeting and our children will be grown and gone in a blink of an eye. I love this book not only because of the content but because I am doing exactly what I have wanted to do my entire life....I AM A MOTHER....and I love every second of it!

Daughters of God: Scriptural Portraits by S. Michael Wilcox

Drawing from the Old and New Testaments, as well as latter-day scripture, Wilcox retells the stories of Heavenly Father's well known and mostly forgotten daughters. I truly enjoyed this book because it speaks to all women in a variety of stages of life. Instead of focusing on basic dichotomies of being a mother or childless, widow or newlywed (though these topics are covered), Wilcox goes deeper in creating short and easy to read studies in how scriptural women have dealt with all life has thrown at them, including gaining and losing faith, sacrificing and experiencing joy, and the actual search for meaning in a world (whether it be 2000 years ago or the present) which never wants women to feel as though we are of value. Wilcox's triumph is in ultimately reminding us that regardless of where we find ourselves on the road to salvation Heavenly Father knows us, even when everyone else forgets, loves us and will always fight for us to make righteous choices and relationships.

Women of the Old Testament by Camille Fronk Olson

I have absolutely loved reading this book! Each chapter included historical facts about an Old Testament woman as well as her dealings with the Lord. I learned so much that I didn’t know! I especially liked the emphasis on spiritual experiences and how each woman met the spiritual challenges that were placed before her. Through reading about their lives, I got to “see” their testimonies grow and felt closer to these women. I realized that it doesn’t matter when we come to earth, every woman has to face tests and overcome these tests by relying on the Lord. This was a very testimony-building book!

And a few others:
The Mother in Me edited by Kathryn Lynard Soper
I'm a Day Late and a Dollar Short... and It's Okay! by JoAnn Larsen
Being the Mom: 10 Coping Strategies I Learned by Accident Because I Had Children on Purpose by Emily Watts
You Can Never Get Enough of What You Don't Need by Mary Ellen Edmunds
The Potentially Sane Mother's Guide by Tamara A. Fackrell

Check them out! And happy Mother's Day!

Editor's Note: While vetted for content, please note that these recommendations are just that -- personal recommendations. Please remember your judgment and discretion are still required! :)

The House of the Lord

Enjoy the Atlanta Temple Dedication! And take a minute to watch this brief video about temples:

HAPPY EASTER!

       

                                Mary and the Resurrected Lord                Jesus' Tomb                    Jesus Shows His Wounds

HAPPY EASTER! He is risen! He is risen! Shout it out with joyful voice! For today, enjoy these two wonderful presentations. May the joy and miracle of that first Easter morn be with you today and always. Happy Easter!


Testimonies of the Apostles


And it wouldn't be Easter without some wonderful music!

1   In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2   And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3   His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4   And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5   And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6   He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7   And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8   And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9   And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10  Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.
11  Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
12  And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
13   Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
14   And if this come to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
15   So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
Matthew 28: 1-15

Saturday of Easter Week: Work for the Dead, The Jewish Sabbath

Jesus Christ

29   And as I wondered, my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them;

30   But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to fall the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.
31   And the chosen messengers went forth to declare the acceptable day of the Lord and proclaim liberty to the captives who were bound, even unto all who would repent of their sins and receive the gospel.
32   Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets.

33   These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands,
34   And all other principles of the gospel that were necessary for them to know in order to qualify themselves that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
35   And so it was made known among the dead, both small and great, the unrighteous as well as the faithful, that redemption had been wrought through the sacrifice of the Son of God upon the cross.
36   Thus was it made known that our Redeemer spent his time during his sojourn in the world of spirits, instructing and preparing the faithful spirits of the prophets who had testified of him in the flesh;
37   That they might carry the message of redemption unto all the dead, unto whom he could not go personally, because of their rebellion and transgression, that they through the ministration of his servants might also hear his words.

D&C 138: 29-37

FOR TODAY:

Watch this brief presentation by President Boyd K. Packer. And also a wonderful clip from President Hinckley!

Read this talk by Elder Ballard on service to others.

For children:

• Make a family tree with as many generations as you can.
• Visit the temple (today's the last day of the Open House!)
• Use play dough to create an Easter day scene with the tomb, garden, etc. Don't forget the door on the tomb so it can be opened tomorrow!

Friday of Easter Week: Calvary

The Crucifixion

To read to full passage (Matthew 27:1-61), click here.

FOR TODAY:

Watch this powerful excerpt from Elder Holland.


Read Elder Wirthlin's talk, Sunday Will Come.

For children:

• Read Book of Mormon stories about what happened there when Jesus died.
• Taste test vinegar and compare it to water.
• Do an object lesson using a glove to demonstrate the physical body and spirit.

26   Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.

27   Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.
28   And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
29   And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
30   And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.
31   And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.
32   And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.
33   And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,

34   They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
35   And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
36   And sitting down they watched him there;
37   And set up over his head his accusation written, This Is Jesus the King of the Jews.
38   Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.
Matthew 27: 26-38

Thursday of Easter Week: The Last Supper and Gethsemane

        

                               Jesus Washing the Apostles' Feet     Jesus Praying in Gethsemane           The Betrayal of Jesus

26    And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

27    And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;

28    For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

36    Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.

39    And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

Matthew 26: 26-28, 36, 39

FOR TODAY

Watch these special thoughts by Elder Holland.

Read thoughts from Elder Ballard about the Atonement and the Value of the One.

For children:

• Go to the grocery store and buy some traditional Passover foods.
• Make a placemat for Easter using construction paper. Talk about the Last Supper and the significance of the Sacrament.
• Enjoy some time in a garden or anywhere outside. Try planting some seeds! Talk about the Garden of Gethsemane.

To read the complete account in Matthew 26, click here.

Wednesday of Easter Week: Miracles

Jesus Blessing Jairus' Daughter

We do not have recorded events for Wednesday of Easter Week, so take this opportunity to think about some of the miracles He performed and the way He ministered to the sick and needy.

FOR TODAY:

Watch this video from President Uchtdorf talking about Jesus Christ.

Read and explore any of these articles from our most recent General Conference. We had so many wonderful addresses concerning service and reaching out to our fellow man (and woman). Enjoy!

For your children and family:

• Print and read this article in the "For Little Friends" section of the April 2006 Friend.
• Make time to visit someone you know who is not feeling well or is lonely.
• Do something helpful for a neighbor or friend.

Tuesday of Easter Week: Learning About Jesus

The Sermon on the Mount

As we do not have specifics as to what Jesus did on Tuesday of this week, take this day to think about His teachings and parables. Some of my favorites are found in Luke 15: the parables of the lost sheep, the piece of silver, and the prodigal son. How great is the worth of souls! When I read these parables, I think about how much the Lord loves each of us. He is the Good Shepherd and stands willing to help and guide us -- to help us become the people He wants us to be. When we build upon His gospel, we cannot fail! I love the Easter season because it helps me remember just how much we are loved by our Savior, Jesus Christ.

FOR TODAY:

Watch this video (also shown below) reminding us of the power of the Atonement and the personal relationship we can have with Jesus Christ.


Read this talk by Elder Bednar about the Tender Mercies of the Lord.

For children:

• Play hide and seek, talk about how important each of us is to the Lord.
• Print and color this picture from an April 1999 Sharing Time lesson.

Monday of Easter Week: Cleansing the Temple

The Temple of Herod

12 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves
13 And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.
15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,
16 And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?
17 And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.
Matthew 21: 12-17

TODAY'S FEATURES:

Watch this clip from President Eyring about temples and the Savior's love for us.

Read this article by President Monson from our most recent General Conference.

For Children:

• Visit the Atlanta Temple Open House today!
• Build a temple out of sugar cubes and frosting.

Note -- Want to see these ideas in advance? Check the blog itself the night before. Each of these messages will be posting the eve of the event so that Feedblitz can send it to you the next morning.

Also, if you could not view the video clip for Palm Sunday, click here.

Easter Week: Palm Sunday

Triumphal Entry by Harry Anderson

1   And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,
2   Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me.
3   And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them.
4   All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying,
5   Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.
6   And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them,
7   And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon.
8   And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way.
9   And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.
10  And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?
11  And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.
Matthew 21:1-11

Happy Palm Sunday! Today marks the beginning of the week leading up to Easter. Growing up in a family where my dad was a chaplain and my mom was a convert, I learned a lot about the various holidays observed by other Christian faiths leading up to Easter. And while we do not specifically celebrate it as Mormons, Palm Sunday has always been a wonderful one to me because this marks the day that Jesus entered into Jerusalem. His arrival sadly marked the beginning of events leading up to the Atonement and His Crucifixion, but it also meant that only days hence would He be resurrected and a great work brought to pass.

This week, I will be making daily posts of scriptures and thoughts leading up to Easter. This is indeed a most holy day and time, and I don't want us to miss it! Each day I will share with you three things: a reference for additional reading, a multimedia resource to enjoy, and an extension idea to use with children. I hope you enjoy!

TODAY'S FEATURES:

Watch


Read
I encourage you to print this article in the Friend. Even if you do not have children at home, it's one of the best, most concise summaries of the week leading up to Easter I've seen (and its visual design is appealing to both child and adult). Check it out!

Apply with Children

• Cut out palm leaves with green paper. Kids will love cutting the fringed edges.
• Read Mark 11:1-10 and act it out as you go. Kids will love being the donkey or spreading their coats to make a path on the floor.