Institute

For the first time EVER I found myself envious of those going back to school this fall.  I miss the days of change every four months, the social scenes, the learning, and all the possibilities that come with being in school.  Four years ago I never dreamed I'd ever feel this way, but here I am.

That's why I decided to take two institute classes at the U Institute of Religion this semester. And I love them!

I'm taking a D&C class.  The class size is small, most likely because of the time since the teacher is amazing!  I took a D&C class while at BYU, but it is definitely different when you are being graded vs being able to just enjoy the wealth of knowledge.  The other class is titled Gospel and Christian History and its packed full - standing room only if you're late.  I love these classes because they are typically taught by people who have spent time in the Middle East studying the history in the area.  This class is no different.  Brother Peterson has been there, he can depict real images to us, and my favorite part was how he was able to break down much of the biblical jargon, back to its Hebrew roots, that can be so difficult to understand.

Its going to make for a busy semester juggling these two classes with the rest of my busy life, but I couldn't be happier to be learning again!

Enter His Holy House

Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Draper, UT LDS Temple

"When we keep the temple covenants we have made and when we live righteously in order to maintain the blessings promised by those ordinances, then come what may, we have no reason to worry or to feel despondent."

Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need
Elder Richard G. Scott ( LDS General Conference - April 2009)

Attending: Mom, Dad, Cath, Doug, Deb, Will, Sarah, Lance, Grandma D, Roger, Leslie, Mary, and Brittany.
It was memorable and I couldn't be happier!

It's Official

So finally, after 3 weeks of secret relief society meetings, I can finally announce that I have a new calling... Relief Society President!

I was given the calling 3 weeks ago, but because of General Conference, and our ward conference, they decided to wait to call my counselors and secretary, and to sustain us. Well, today it became official, making it okay for me to share the exciting/daunting/almost overwhelming news with you all.

I think the very hardest thing for me to do during those 3 weeks, was keep it quiet. I had so many thoughts going through my head, but I had to keep it quiet, continue in my previous calling, all while secretly learning the ropes of my new calling. It was quite a task.

I asked the Bishop to let me know when my counselors were called so I could contact them, and I cannot explain the relief I felt when I got off the phone with my Bishop Thursday night. To know these girls were excited to work with my and ready to be by my side lightened the heaviness felt by my secretiveness. Then today after we were sustained and set apart, that same heaviness was nearly gone. Having these girls with me is so important to the success of my calling.

The organization of this church is amazing to me. Never at any point do the leaders of any and all different auxiliaries have to feel alone. The Lord intends to run His church with organization and the best way to do that is to have presidencies, bishoprics, and groups of leaders. Being in this position helps me to understand just how important it is to have others there to support you. I truly believe all things have a purpose.

As I begin to work with the sisters in my ward, I know I will more fully understand the purpose of Relief Society. I am excited for this challenge, fully knowing it will be just that, but the simplest of blessings make it so worth it. So, bring on the challenge!