How Can I Teach Gospel Principles in My Home and Strengthen My Family?
In an issue Improvement Era magazine, President David O. McKay said, "With all my heart I believe that the best place to prepare for . . .eternal life is in the home" Our home has a huge influence over who we are and who we become. We can learn to love, to share, and to serve one another in the home. Mormons believe that God has commanded every man and woman to have children. In order to strengthen the family, Mormons believe that Mormon doctrine is to be taught within the home. President Harold B. Lee was quoted saying, "The most important of the Lord's work that you will ever do will be the work you do within the walls of your own home.” Mormons should strive to make their home a place where the spirit can dwell.
Mormon families are encouraged to spend quality recreation time together. Families are instructed to attend church together every Sunday. Weekly church meetings give the family the opportunity to sit and worship God together. By attending Sunday meeting, families have the opportunity to bond and come together at least once a week. While at church, we hear lessons and learn how to be better fathers, wives, and children. The church has encouraged families to reserve Monday nights as a “family night” for the family members to bond and spend time together. In today’s fast-paced society, many families hardly have time to see each other. The Mormon Church encourages families to hold Family Home Evening weekly. Mormons are encouraged to refrain from worldly activities on Sunday and instead spent their time in the home with their families. Church leaders have encouraged us to put pictures of the temple or Christ in our house to set a mood of reverence in our homes. Mormons have been encouraged to hold nightly prayer together and engage in family scripture study. Parents are to lead their children and teach by example. Parents should encourage their children to follow all commandments and heed the words of the prophet. Families should only watch television programs and movies that invite the spirit in the home. It is the parent’s responsibility to set a mood and state of spirituality within the home. The greatest example of a merciful parent would be Heavenly Father, who leads His children with patience and love.
Families can be sealed in the Mormon temple. This is a ceremony that binds parents to their children forever. In order to have this blessing, the parents must first be sealed in the Mormon temple for time and eternity. This ceremony was first introduced by the Prophet Joseph Smith. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for families to be united eternally. By sealing your family in the temple, you are showing your faith and trust in God and His eternal plan for your family.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Mormon Testimonies - Mormonwiki - Why Mormonism - Understanding Mormonism - About Jesus Christ - Meet Mormon Missionaries - Families Forever - Thomas Monson - Mormon Beliefs - Mormon Truth - All About Mormons - Joseph Smith - Mormon Youth - Thomas S. Monson - Gordon B. Hinckley