Purposes and Blessings
Annual History purposes and blessings
- Bring members closer to Christ by helping them remember what God has done for His children and that He always fulfills His promises.
- Document continually the contemporary history of the Church.
- Present leaders and missionaries with an opportunity to reflect on their efforts to help individuals and families qualify for exaltation.
- It fulfills the Lords commandment* to “send forth the accounts of their stewardships” D&C 69:3, 5
“From the day the Church was organized, the Lord commanded his Church to keep a record.
Why do you think keeping a record of our stewardship, is important to the Lord?
“Behold, there shall be a record kept among you.” (D&C 21:1)
The Lord further stated
” …that this history would “be for the good of the church, and for the rising generations” ( D&C 69:3, 8 )
From the doctrine and covenants, we learn that our records should “focus on more than just an administrative history”.
”It should include stories about people and their lives. D&C 85
The Lord commands us to “document our stewardship”
How do you see your ministry in the Work of Solvation?
How did the Lord help you learn your role in your Calling?
How were you helped, to you understand the specific needs of those you serve?
Just as in times of old, the age of Miracles is still with us. Such accounts of the Lords love for us is an important part of building faith.* It’s about recording how and when we have seen the Hand of the Lord, providing Grace and Tender Mercies transforming lives. This should be recorded!*
The Lord as provided a guide (so to speak*) of what he wishes included in our annual histories*
. . . to keep a history . . . of all things that transpire in Zion, . . . “And also their manner of life, their faith, and works.” D&C 85:1–2
Church leaders have taught that remembering can:
- increase gratitude for God’s kindness
- strengthen a person’s resolve to live the gospel
- and provide a pattern for living the gospel
- and overcoming adversity
The Blessings of Church History:
Writing Church history is not an academic or clerical endeavor; rather a spiritual work.
“Wherefore, verily I say unto you that all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal…”
Doctrine and Covenants 29:34
Blessings of Record Keeping:
- Increase awareness of what God has done for His children
- Connects us as a people
- Strengthened testimonies and resolve to make and keep sacred covenants
- A legacy of faith for the rising generation (Steven E Snow)