Our Personal Journey toward God

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little boy reaching out to his mother as other family memebers walk ahead

Dear Parents,

Our journey to perfection, as seen in this month’s issue, is traveled by having faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, repenting, making and keeping sacred covenants, and seeking God’s direction in our lives.

Gospel Discussions

Our Quest to Come unto Christ

Ask your children what it means to go on a quest. Share some teachings from Elder Neil L. Andersen’s article on page 4 about our quest to come unto Christ. What tools strengthen us in this journey?

Encouraging Christlike Development

Discuss with your children what long-term goals they have, like a career, mission, or temple marriage. Read ideas on pages 14–17. Together, you could plan some activities that can help your children reach their goals.

Minimizing Exposure to Inappropriate Material

Using the article on page 8, talk about the hope that one can repent if one struggles with pornography use. Make a family plan to minimize potential exposure to inappropriate material in media such as television and the internet.

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girl on a swing reading a paper

From For the Strength of Youth Magazine

Youth have a unique role in the plan of salvation, and a personal way to find this role is through a patriarchal blessing. Consider discussing the questions on this page in home evening, and explain how divine guidance can help family members prepare for and overcome life challenges.

What Is a Patriarchal Blessing?

This blessing declares a person’s lineage in the house of Israel and “provides inspired direction from Heavenly Father,”¹ often including promises, blessings, spiritual gifts, and cautions specific to the individual. It is given by a patriarch after authorization from the bishop or branch president.

Hold Old Do I Have to Be to Request One?

“Priesthood leaders should not establish a minimum age for a member to receive a patriarchal blessing.”² The recipient should be old enough to recognize the sacredness of this blessing.

How Do I Prepare?

Draw closer to God through repentance, studying the teachings of prophets, and sacrificing worldly things. Prayerfully consider questions about your role in Heavenly Father’s plan, and strengthen your desire to follow His will.