Sunday Happenings

Lesson: An Introduction to "Daughters in My Kingdom"
Instructor: Sister Stott

Go here, to read more about the background of this book. Please let us know if you did not receive this book. We will be delivering them to Primary, and Young Women's next week.

As I have been reading this book in preparation for my lesson this past week, I have learned so many things I never knew about the history of Relief Society. Did you know that women used to petition for membership in Relief Society, it was based on their goodness and virtue. Women wanted to be part of this society because of the good it did for others (pg. 15- Chapter 2). I have seen how inspired the Prophet Joseph Smith was to start this society of women. We are so fortunate to to have the strength of Relief Society behind us. Women are incredible. Emma Smith said at the opening Relief Society meeting, "We are going to do something extraordinary." I think this has been fulfilled through the many experiences of women around the world as well as in our own ward.

I love the beauty and simplicity of this book. It reads very easily. It helps me feel connected to the women who have come before me and it has helped me see why we do the things we do. We follow many of the same patterns set from the very beginning.

I hope you will take the time to read this book as well as use it for Family Home Evening lessons, Visiting Teaching, or personal study. It will be a great blessing in your life. I loved one of the ending paragraphs in the book:

"The charge to lead out in everything that is praiseworthy, Godlike, uplifting, and purifying is a demanding one. It always has been. But individual Relief Society sisters are not alone in accepting this charge. They are part of a great organization, founded by Priesthood authority and strengthened by the teachings and declarations of prophets. They are beloved daughters of God with sacred responsibilities. They are covenenant people of the Lamb, "armed with righteousness and the with the power of God in great glory." As they unite with other faithful Saints and learn from the examples of those who have gone before, they can prevail over mortal challenges. They can help build the kingdom of God throughout the world and in their homes. They can say, "Now it is our turn -- our turn to serve and write a chapter on the pages of Relief Society's history." With an assurance of Heavenly Father's love for them and a testimony of the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, they can rise above the ordinary thoughts and ambitions and be part of "something extraordinary" (pg. 181).

What are your favorite parts of this wonderful book? How could you use it in your homes, at church, with other sisters, or in other ways?