On November 17th, 2019 Elder Gerrit W. Gong from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, presented a Face to Face event for children, youth, parents and leaders. Here, he answered many questions from all over the world, focusing on the new Children and Youth Program.
The leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are encouraging the youth through this vision from www.churchofjesuschrist.org:
“To strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ and help you and your family progress along the covenant path as you meet life’s challenges.”
Within the new introductory guide for parents and leaders (found either online or in print) we find words from The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. They read as follows:
“Our dear brothers and sisters the children and youth of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are beloved sons and daughters of God. They have the potential to make great impact on the world. The principles taught in this effort for children and youth represent a higher, holier way to encourage the rising generation to follow Jesus Christ and apply His gospel in all areas of their lives.”
Included in this widespread effort is gospel learning, the opportunity for service, personal development and exciting activities.
Home-Centered
Leaders of the Church are encouraging youth and parents to start these efforts at home. In particular, parents can help their youth to seek and recognize the Holy Ghost, pray for guidance, and express love while regularly complimenting your children.
Also, looking for ways to serve is important, teaching your children to set goals and create plans, and offer support along the way.
Church Supported
The main role of the Church is to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, provide ordinances and support the home. Additionally, leaders who are serving with the youth can strengthen their relationships with them which will, in turn, reach out to the family relationships.
As the children and youth of the Church begin to understand the new program, they will feel an increase in their testimonies.
Another portion of the new program focuses on Striving to Follow the Savior:
In his youth, the Savior “…increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man (Luke 2:52). Likewise, the children and youth of today can live a well-balanced life much like the Savior did.
Every day of the week is an opportunity to invite the Savior into our lives and not just on Sunday. They can “Strive” to make Jesus Christ the center of their lives.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has invited the children and youth to ponder on 4 aspects of their lives and how they can more fully draw closer to the Savior.
· Spiritual
· Social
· Physical
· Intellectual
Also, the leaders of the Church are encouraging the youth to look for ways to increase their service. These activities all around us. When we are at home service activities can teach our children to have better relationships, teach life skills, develop Christlike attributes and more.
At Church we can learn of service by including the Aaronic priesthood holders as they officiate in the ordinance of the sacrament, attending regular activities for youth, build gospel centered relationships with peers and more.
For more detailed information you may go to www.ChildrenandYouth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org
