Elders,
Happy Birthday America! This is such a great time of the year. The weather, food, fun, festivities – one big celebration of our heritages, our freedoms, and our country. I’m proud to be a citizen and call this my home. Our country has a tumultuous history but has always been set aside as a place for freedom. I think of Captain Moroni and his title of liberty that inspired so many. I think of our founding fathers who risked everything to declare our freedom from oppression and allow life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Our country was build upon the backs of amazing women and men committed to an ideal and something bigger than themselves. Many sacrificed much and many sacrificed their all in helping to ensure we enjoy the freedoms we do today. To all those before, thank you, and may God Bless America.
Speaking of the pursuit of happiness, Kevin Bone (with the help of many others) presented our lesson last Sunday on a speech that President Nelson delivered in Florida. These truths have the power to change lives and bring happiness. The truths are:
- God is our Father
- Jesus Christ is our Savior
- We are children of God
- The Book of Mormon is the word of God
- The priesthood is restored
- The gathering of Israel
- Joy comes from keeping the commandments
I encourage you to take a few minutes and reflect on these truths and what knowing them and believing them has done and can do for your life. If you feel inspired to dig and drink deeply from one or more of these truths then I encourage you to do so – and would love to hear your thoughts. I get this open forum to share my thoughts and I always love hearing what you have to say as well.
We have a couple of things coming up:
- 7/18 7:00pm – Elders and Relief Society BBQ and social in the Moore’s backyard. We’ll have one of our ward members share a bit about their life and enjoy some good food and company.
- 7/29 – 8/2 We have the opportunity to help clean the Jordan River Temple. I always look forward to doing this. It is a great way to physically serve in the temple. It makes me happy. More information to come
- 8/16 – 8/17 – Ward camp near East Canyon – the same place as last year. A quick drive away and a fun place to gather around the campfire and learn more about each other.
One more shameless plug… Four of our ward members are participating in Taylorsville Arts Council production of Mamma Mia! Beau Sheffield, David Swenson, Cassidy Swenson, and myself will all don disco gear and sing and dance to the hits of ABBA. The show runs 7/15-7//20 and begins at 8:00pm at the SLCC Redwood campus’ Alder outdoor amphitheater. Bring your dinner or some snacks and come see us perform. Tickets are available at the door.
Elders, enjoy the holiday. Be safe. Build traditions.
Respectfully,
President Oldroyd
801-573-6828