By Nettie H. Francis
The funds are low, and the debts are high, and you want to smile but you have to sigh.” (Anonymous) The world is in a crunch, a financial crisis that has now become an emotional and physical challenge for many families.

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By John M. Tippets
Hearts of Courage is a true story of Alaska Aviation, perseverance, faith and prayers answered.

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By Alison Palmer
Scripture:“Successful . . . families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, [and] forgiveness” (“Proclamation,” paragraph 7)

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by Alonzo L. Gaskill

While it is commonly the case that many outside of Mormonism have strange ideas about who we are, and what exactly we believe and do – particularly in our temples – nevertheless, Latter-day Saints occasionally also have misconceptions about the beliefs and practices of other faiths. A prime example of this would be how some lay Mormons view the Roman Catholic practice of petitioning saints. While some in the LDS and Protestant communities see this practice as heretical, context is important for understanding what these acts of piety mean, and what the Catholic Church officially teaches on this matter.

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By Jeffrey R. Holland

In the April 2006 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland dedicated a talk to anyone who felt their life was broken beyond repair. Now, his counsel is featured in a new book that makes it clear why he has earned a reputation as one of the church’s great communicators. Broken Things to Mend (Deseret Book, $24.95, Hardcover) publishes in one book some of the most powerful words ever taught by Elder Holland. He shares the “good news of the gospel” and teaches that knowing who God and Christ are is the source of healing.

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by Danielle Ellis

Splashy headlines now in vogue proclaim what is be coming increasingly obvious: the world we know is going to change, and perhaps sooner than many of us are ready to admit. But what do things like “peak oil” and “going green” and “the coming economic collapse” mean in our day-to-day lives?

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by By Alison Palmer

Scripture: Mark 11:24
Song: “A Child’s Prayer,” Children’s Songbook, 1 2
Preparation: Gather a few items that make noise, such as: a plastic bag, sand paper, disposable diaper, electronic toy, or spring-activated pen. Place your chosen items in a closed box to hide them from your family’s view.

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With close to forty years as a religious instructor, Robert L. Millet has considerable experience helping students who struggle with doubt. His new book, Holding Fast: Dealing with Doubt in the Latter Days offers a new resource for anyone who needs help overcoming, understanding and coping with doubt in all its forms.

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Imperfect and flawed though our families are, it is the deepest desire of every human heart to have a loving family. Some days it’s easy to love my family, and some days it takes a fervent prayer to love them! But we must love one another. The Lord told us, “I say unto you, be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine” (D&C 38:27). President James E. Faust added to that, “Unity in the Church will always be a reflection of the unity in our homes.”

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by Alison Palmer

Scripture: D&C 68:27

Song: “When Jesus Christ Was Baptized,” Children’s Songbook, 102

Preparation: Gather embroidery floss, thin string or yarn (multiple colors can be fun if available). Prepare the string by cutting it into 9 long pieces and divide them into 3 sets of 3.

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