2024 Fsy Participant Handbook

2024 For the Strength
of Youth Conference
Participant Handbook
“Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

I have been called of him to declare his word among
his people, that they might have everlasting life.”
3 NEPHI 5:13
Invitation to Unity
The FSY experience uniquely creates a place where everyone can have a sense
of unity and belonging. You can put away barriers between you and those
different from you. We invite you to take full advantage of this opportunity by
treating each individual as a child of God—with infinite worth and value, with
no regard to circumstances or background or beliefs. You and the youth at FSY,
the employees and students at this campus, as well as any other camps on cam-
pus this week—all deserve unity and belonging through friendship and respect.
We invite you to think of ways you can be a positive influence on those sharing
this space. Doing so will bring a powerful spirit to our FSY experience and will
build a strong relationship with this community for years to come.
Welcome to FSY
My name:_______________________________________________________________________
Counselor:______________________________________________________________________
Company:_______________________________________________________________________
Session-directing couple:_______________________________________________________
Session dates:___________________________________________________________________
Session location:________________________________________________________________
Published by
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah
©2023 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc.All rights reserved.
English approval: 4/23
Participant Handbook PD80016871
FSY Objective
To strengthen faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel, feel an increased
sense of belonging, and be empowered to continue having spiritual experiences
at home.
PURPOSE OF THE PARTICIPANT HANDBOOK
Your handbook gives you a way to record and remember your experiences at
your For the Strength of Youth (FSY) conference—a journal of your FSY mem-
ories. Write your name and session information in the lines provided above and
keep your handbook with you throughout the week. In the future, use it as a
reference to help you remember what you learned at FSY.
SUGGESTIONS FOR USING YOUR HANDBOOK
• Record important things you learn from the session directors, teachers, your
counselors, and, of greatest importance, what the Spirit teaches you.
• Write down your goals, thoughts, impressions, and testimony of the gospel
of Jesus Christ.
• Take notes during classes to help you remember concepts and questions you
would like answered.
• Write about your feelings during activities such as participant devotionals,
gospel study, morning and evening devotionals, testimony meetings, Re-
flect and Review, and any other time you feel inspired.
• Many of the lessons taught will be based on the information in your hand-
book. With your recorded notes, your handbook becomes an important
teaching and learning resource that you can refer to in the future.
“Jesus saved the world so each of us could live more fully, without losing our
unique individuality. As we turn to Him, we can grow into the people we were
truly meant to be and better serve and love those around us.”
—ComeUntoChrist.org
3
“The First Presidency and the Twelve are united in endorsing these
efforts to strengthen our youth. Oh, how we love them and pray
for them! They are the ‘hope of Israel, Zion’s army, children of the
promised day’ (“Hope of Israel,” Hymns, no. 259). We express our
complete confidence in our youth and our gratitude for them”
(Russell M. Nelson, “Witnesses, Aaronic Priesthood Quorums, and Young Women Classes,”
Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 39).
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DAY 1 7
Taking Charge of Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Meet Your Counselor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Meet Your Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Session-Directing Couple Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Company Commitments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Goal Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Reflect and Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
DAY 2 21
Participant Morning Devotional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Session-Directing Couple Morning Devotional . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
First Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Second Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Third Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Fourth Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Banner and Cheer Prep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
FSY Dance Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
DAY 3 35
Gospel Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Class or Activity #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Games Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
DAY 4 49
Gospel Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Young Men and Young Women Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Variety Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Reverence—Testimony Discussion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Musical Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
My Testimony of the Gospel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
DAY 5 77
Gospel Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Goal Setting Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
For the Strength of Youth Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Living the Gospel Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Taking It Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Reflect and Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
MUSIC 103
JOURNAL 115
GAMES FOR USE DURING LUNCHTIME OR DOWNTIME 131
FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH: A GUIDE FOR MAKING
CHOICES 134
5
DAY 1
Casual dress
AGENDA
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Check-In
1
1:15–1:30 p.m. Room Checks
1:30–2:20 p.m. (Wear FSY T-shirt) Meet Your Counselor
2:30–3:05 p.m. Meet Your Company
3:05–3:15 p.m. Company Name
3:30–4:30 p.m. Orientation
4:45–5:45 p.m. Dinner
5:45 p.m. Meet with Company | Head Count
5:45–6:00 p.m. Travel to Home Evening
6:00–6:45 p.m. Home Evening Lesson
6:45–7:00 p.m. Travel to Company Spot
7:00–8:00 p.m. Home Evening Games
8:00–8:45 p.m. Home Evening Goal Setting
9:00–9:45 p.m. Head Count | Quiet Time—Get Ready for Bed
Participant Devotional Prep
9:45–10:15 p.m. Reflect and Review | Journaling | Prayer
10:30 p.m. Lights Out
7
Youth are expected to follow the principles taught in the For the Strength of
Youth guide while at FSY. You can find the For the Strength of Youth guide
on page 134 of this booklet.
For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices provides principles that will
allow for youth attending FSY conferences to make inspired choices when con-
sidering how to treat those around them, how to dress and present themselves,
and how to seek after truth.
We follow the Savior’s example by being kind and respectful to everyone.
8
FSY Conference Standards
1
of Conduct
Following the standards of conduct at FSY will positively
impact your experience.
• Be appropriate in your actions and interactions with others, as well as with
what content you consume and share.
• Respect the property of others, the facilities, and the grounds.
• Care for your physical health (stay hydrated, eat healthy, and get enough
sleep).
• Make honest choices with your time and actions. Respect your counselors
and be where you are supposed to be.
• Come prepared to each activity! Bring your handbook, something to write
with, and a water bottle. Wear appropriate footwear to Games Night.
• Treat everyone, including yourself, with kindness. Respect the physical,
emotional, and spiritual well-being of all.
There is a time and a place for many things. FSY is not the time or the place for
engaging in romantic behavior, playing pranks, or having conversations regard-
ing politics, unrevealed doctrine, or other sensitive topics.
Participants at FSY are expected to follow all standards outlined in the For the
Strength of Youth guide.
The following prohibited activities may result in being sent home immediately
at your own expense and with no refund:
• Participating in or encouraging immoral behavior of any kind, which in-
cludes breaking the law of chastity and viewing pornography in any form
• Shoplifting, theft, or vandalism of any kind
• Breaking the Word of Wisdom, including vaping and possessing illegal
substances
• Possessing weapons or firearms of any kind
• Harming yourself or others physically, spiritually, or emotionally, including
any form of bullying
All crimes and harmful or destructive incidents or pranks will be reported to
local authorities. The consequences of actions taken by local authorities are out
of our control.
9
Please Note: When you come to FSY, you are expected to remain at FSY
throughout the whole event. Leaving without following proper check-out
procedures, including skipping scheduled activities without permission and
breaking FSY curfew, could result in you being sent home.
FSY WEAPONS AND OTHER BANNED ITEMS POLICY

Consistent with its commitment to promote and maintain a safe and respect-
ful environment, FSY prohibits weapons or other banned items for all youth,
volunteers, or employees.
Weapons include any device designed or intended to inflict serious bodily
injury or death, including but not limited to firearms, knives (including swords,
daggers, switchblades), clubs or nightsticks, Tasers, and explosives.
Other banned items include fireworks; pocketknives; chemical irritants (pepper
spray); flammables (matches, lighters); slingshots, airsoft, pellet, or BB guns; or
other items that FSY, at its sole discretion, may from time to time prohibit.
Weapons or other banned items brought to FSY will be confiscated, the parents
of the youth bringing them will be contacted, and the youth may be sent home
immediately at the family’s expense with no refund. If a crime is involved, law
enforcement may be alerted. Confiscated weapons or other banned items that
FSY staff, in their sole discretion, determine to be too dangerous will not be
returned directly to a youth. Where lawful, FSY may arrange with bishops
or parents of youth for the return of these items at the family’s expense, only
through secure methods.
FSY takes place in a variety of jurisdictions with their own laws related to
weapons or other banned items. Many of the partner institutions that host FSY
have their own related policies banning certain items. In addition to the obvi-
ous dangers of these items to people or property, bringing a weapon or other
banned items to FSY jeopardizes FSY’s partnerships and future scheduling
with these host institutions.
10
1
11
Taking Charge of
Technology
PURPOSE PLAN PAUSE
I can use technology When I plan ahead, I It’s OK for me to pause
with a purpose. It feel better and make and take a break.
doesn’t control me. better choices.
QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT
Why am I using What is my plan for using Am I avoiding content

technology right now? technology? I know is not right or
purposeful?
Do I feel good about what What sign am I showing
I’m doing? God with how I use my Am I feeling the Spirit
time? leave?
How long will I be using
technology?
PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS
Send a positive message Give myself a daily limit Put the device down and
to someone else. for screen time. step away.
Listen to music that helps Only “follow” and contact Pray for strength.
you feel peace. close family and friends.
Talk to someone.
Create your own content. Have device-free areas at
home.
Intentionally use
technology to learn. Set up a family charging
station.
Use a filter.
12
Meet Your Counselor
1
FSY Rules Checklist
My counselor explained the following rules, standards, and opportunities:
□ Wearing wristband (if applicable) □ Cell phone courtesy (if

at all times applicable)
□ Carrying handbook/daily agenda □ Room key and meal cards (if
□ Not leaving FSY applicable)
□ Dress standards and expectations □ Residence halls (if applicable)
□ Respect □ Closing blinds (if applicable)
□ Classroom etiquette □ Getting the most out of FSY
□ Dance standards □ The Standards of Conduct
□ Safety □ Variety Show tryouts
□ Head count and lights out □ Musical Program participation
I COMMIT TO FOLLOWING THE RULES AND STANDARDS

ALL WEEK LONG.
Signature
People in my group: Cell phone numbers:
13
Meet Your Company
What’s in a Name?
STEP 1
Read Helaman 5:6–7

“As I have studied the history of my family and have learned how much they
sacrificed for the gospel, I have grown to appreciate the value of a good name.
It has built within me a greater desire to do what I can do to bring honor to
this good family name. It has also impressed upon me the responsibility I have
to future generations” (L. Tom Perry, “The Value of a Good Name,” New Era,
Feb. 2009, 5–6).
Does your name have special meaning?
Does your name have any links to past generations?
14
STEP 2
1
Read Mosiah 5:7 and Alma 46:15
“Our willingness to take upon us the name of Jesus Christ affirms our com-
mitment to do all that we can to be counted among those whom he will
choose to stand at his right hand and be called by his name at the last day.
In this sacred sense, our witness that we are willing to take upon us the
name of Jesus Christ constitutes our declaration of candidacy for exaltation
in the celestial kingdom. Exaltation is eternal life, ‘the greatest of all the
gifts of God’ (Doctrine and Covenants 14:7).” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Taking
upon Us the Name of Jesus Christ,” Ensign, May 1985, 83)
Besides your own name, what other names are important?
STEP 3
Our company scripture is the seminary doctrinal mastery passage found in:
Our company scripture makes me think about:
When others hear our name, we want them to think of:
STEP 4
Our company name is:
15
Session-Directing
Couple Message
Home Evening
Notes:
16
Company Commitments
1
Making company commitments and keeping them throughout the week will
improve your overall experience at FSY.
As a company, you may consider making commitments in mental, physical,
social, and spiritual areas.
This week, our company will
During the Taking It Home activity, companies will be asked to report on their
success in keeping their commitments. As you do your part to keep your com-
mitments and help members of your company keep theirs, you will set a pattern
to follow when you return home. As you apply what you experience and learn
at FSY to your personal life, you will be strengthened and in turn be able to
strengthen your family, friends, ward or branch, stake or district, school, and
community.
“Therefore, strengthen your brethren in all your

conversation, in all your prayers, in all your exhor-
tations, and in all your doings”
(Doctrine and Covenants 108:7).
“[Commitment] is the act of obligating oneself

to a course of action and then diligently follow-
ing through on that decision. When people are
genuinely committed, they have real intent,
meaning that they fully intend to do what they
have committed to do”
(Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Service [2004], 195)
17
Goal Setting
“Write down one thing that you are going to start doing that you have been
meaning to do for a long time but that you just haven’t gotten around to. I
don’t know what it might be, but place into your life, beginning tonight, one
thing that you are going to do that is going to make you a better person”
(M. Russell Ballard, “Go for It!” New Era, Mar. 2004, 7).
This week, I will
“We can become the masters of our own destinies by practicing self-discipline
and by setting worthy goals that will lead to higher ground so that we can be-
come what our Heavenly Father wants us to become” (M. Russell Ballard, “Go
for It!” 8).
18
Reflect and Review
1
Your counselor group will meet for Reflect and Review each evening. You will
have the opportunity to reflect on and share what you have learned and felt
throughout the day.
To prepare to participate in Reflect and Review, you might find it helpful to
think about these questions:
• What happened today that was inspiring to you?
• What did you learn today?
• What lessons will you remember after you return home?
• When did you feel the Holy Ghost today?
Be sure to record your thoughts and feelings from the discussion.
19
Taking It Home
When you return home, share with your family what you learned today.
20
DAY 2
Casual dress
AGENDA
7:15–7:30 a.m. Participant Devotional
7:30–8:30 a.m. Breakfast
8:30–9:30 a.m. Gospel Study
9:45–10:30 a.m. Session-Directing Couple Morning Devotional
10:30–10:45 a.m. Travel to Classes
10:45–11:30 a.m. Classes
11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Classes
12:30–1:30 p.m. Lunch | Musical Program Rehearsal
1:30–1:45 p.m. Travel to Classes
1:45–2:30 p.m. Classes
2:45–3:30 p.m. Classes
3:30–5:00 p.m. Musical Program Rehearsal/Variety Show Tryouts
3:30–4:30 p.m. On-Campus Free Time
4:30–6:00 p.m. Dinner
6:00–6:30 p.m. Banner and Cheer Prep
6:30–6:45 p.m. Review FSY Dance Guidelines
6:45–8:45 p.m. Dance

22
Participant Morning
2
Devotional
If you are asked to lead the morning devotional, do the
following:
1. Select a hymn to sing as a group.
2. Invite another group member to offer a prayer.
3. Share a brief spiritual thought. For example, you could:
• Share a favorite scripture.
• Explain why the scripture is meaningful to you.
• Share a brief personal experience related to the scripture.
• Testify of the truths contained in the scripture. (If you need help choos-
ing a spiritual thought, ask your counselor for suggestions.)
4. Turn the time over to the counselor for daily announcements.
23
Gospel Study
Feast upon the Words of Christ
GROUP DISCUSSION
Talk to your group about a time when you have had a real feast, like on a holi-
day or at a special family event. Read 2 Nephi 32:3 and look for what we are to
feast on every day and what will be the result. Why do you feel Nephi used the
word feast? What have you done, or what can you do, to feast on the words of
Christ as you study the gospel daily?
When have you had a meaningful experience studying the scriptures? What
made it meaningful?
PERSONAL STUDY
Read a scripture passage, conference talk, or Church magazine article of your

choice (or ask your counselor for a suggestion). While reading, consider trying
one or more of the following to feast on the words of Christ:
• Look up cross-references.
• Identify eternal truths.
• Ask questions and ponder answers.
• Mark meaningful words and phrases.
• Record impressions.
What else can you do to “feast” on these verses?
SHARE TOGETHER
Share with your group what you learned during your personal study. What will
you do to feast on the words of Christ during your future study of the gospel?
ADDITIONAL STUDY
2 Nephi 4:15–16
Alma 17:2
Alma 37:44–45
24
Session-Directing Couple
2
Morning Devotional
Notes:
25
First Class Notes
Teacher:
Class Title:
Notes:
26
Second Class Notes
2
Teacher:
Class Title:
Notes:
27
Third Class Notes
Teacher:
Class Title:
Notes:
28
Fourth Class Notes
2
Teacher:
Class Title:
Notes:
29
Banner and Cheer Prep
Rules for the Banner
• The banner must be appropriate and reflect the character of the company
name.
• Counselors cannot draw on the banner.
• Please do not use names or titles of Deity on your banner.
Rules for the Cheer

Your company will prepare a cheer to present to the judges (usually the session
director and coordinators).
The judges’ selections will perform at the cheer-off finals. The rules below will
ensure appropriateness, safety, and fairness:
• Keep the cheer to around one minute.
• Remember that judges look for enthusiasm, creativity, group unity, and
overall performance.
• Counselors may not participate in the cheer but may encourage and help
with ideas. The purpose is for the youth to work as a group and become
more unified, not to win the competition. Counselors are responsible for
making sure the youth understand and comply with the expectations
below.
• Flips and lifts are not permitted.
• With the exception of your banner, no props may be used.
• Do not use scriptural references or the names of Deity.
• Make sure tunes come from appropriate songs and that all cheer lyrics are
appropriate.
• Profanity, vulgarity, and demeaning language of any kind is not permitted.
30
FSY Dance Guidelines
2
Everyone
Throughout the evening, politely ask someone to dance. Try to make more
friends and get to know someone new!
• Graciously consider each invitation to dance.
• Try out new dance moves—keep them appropriate!
• Ask your dance partners interesting questions to get to know them better.
• Extra-mile tips:
• Don’t forget to SMILE!
• Variety makes dancing more fun. Try to spin!
Avoid
• Full-body contact (such as bear-hugging)
• Positions or moves that are suggestive
• Hanging out in the hall or restroom
• Throwing objects and using glow sticks
• Dancing that is potentially harmful to yourself or others. This includes flips,
lifts, trains, moshing ( jumping out of control), etc.
More Information
• See the For the Strength of Youth guide for more direction regarding music
and dance that will invite God’s light into your life.
What Will You Find at an FSY Dance?
• Popular, positive music
• Great line dances
• Lights on, so you can see all your friends and show off your new moves
• Respectful peers
• Tons of fun!
“If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing,

with music, with dancing. . .”
(Doctrine and Covenants 136:28)
31
Reflect and Review
throughout the day.
Taking It Home
32
2
33
DAY 3
Casual dress (FSY T-shirt)
AGENDA
10:30–10:45 a.m. Travel to Next Activity
10:45–11:30 a.m. Classes or Session-Specific Activity
11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Classes or Session-Specific Activity
12:30–1:30 p.m. Lunch | Musical Program Rehearsal
1:30–1:45 p.m. Travel to Next Activity
1:45–2:30 p.m. Classes or Session-Specific Activity
2:45–3:30 p.m. Classes or Session-Specific Activity
3:30–5:00 p.m. Musical Program Rehearsal/Variety Show Tryouts
4:30–6:00 p.m. (Wear FSY T-shirt) Dinner
6:00–6:30 p.m. Games Night Prep
6:30–6:45 p.m. Travel to Games Night
6:45–8:00 p.m. Games Night and Cheer-Off
8:15–9:00 p.m. Favorite Food Night

Participant Morning
3
Devotional
If you are asked to lead the morning devotional, do the following:
37
Gospel Study
Liken the Scriptures
GROUP DISCUSSION
Tell your group about someone from the scriptures who you really identify
with (for example, you may identify with Nephi because he was persecuted for
keeping the commandments). Why do you identify with this person? What do
you learn from his or her example?
Read 1 Nephi 4:1–3 as a group and discover how Nephi likened the scriptures
to his own situation. How did this help Nephi? When has a story from the
scriptures helped you in your life?
PERSONAL STUDY

choice (or you could read Matthew 14:22–32 or 1 Nephi 2). While reading, ask
yourself questions like the following:
• What does Heavenly Father want me to learn from this story?
• What do I learn from this passage when I try to picture myself in it?
• How does this story or these teachings apply to my life now?
SHARE TOGETHER
Share with your group what you learned during your personal study. What will
you do to liken the scriptures during your future study of the gospel?
ADDITIONAL STUDY
Matthew 7:24–27
1 Nephi 19:22–23
2 Nephi 6:5
2 Nephi 11:2, 8
38
“We should ‘liken all scriptures unto us, that it might
3
be for our profit and learning’ (1 Nephi 19:23). To liken
the scriptures means to see how scripture accounts are
similar to circumstances today and to show how the
principles they teach are relevant in our lives. . . .
“Many times we can liken the scriptures to our lives

by asking, ‘What did the prophet who recorded this
account want us to learn from it? Why did he include
these particular details?’ When we ask these questions
about the story of Enos, for example, we can discover
applications to our own experiences with prayer. We
can learn that praying sometimes takes much effort
and that Heavenly Father answers our prayers”
(Teaching, No Greater Call [1999], 170–71).
39
Morning Devotional
Notes:
40
Class or Activity #1
3
Title:
Notes:
41
Title:
Notes:
42
3
Title:
Notes:
43
Title:
Notes:
44
Games Night
3
TREE, LOG, BRIDGE
Companies line up in a single-file line behind the starting flag. One counselor
stands at the front of the line to tell the participants when to go, and another
counselor places the participants as they run. When the assistant coordinator
says “Go!” the first participant runs about two meters (or wherever the coun-
selor places the person) and stands still with his or her hands by his or her sides
to form a “tree.” When the participant is in place, the next participant then
runs in a complete circle around the tree, runs two yards beyond the tree, and
lies down to form a “log” (if the ground is wet, participants may squat in a ball).
When that participant is in place, the next two participants will run around the
tree, jump over the log, run two yards beyond the log, and join hands in the air
to form a “bridge.” After the bridge is in place, the next participant proceeds
through the obstacles in the same manner and forms another tree, and so forth
until all the participants are playing. Participants cannot leave the starting line
until the participants in front of them is in place.
Once there are no more participants left in line, the counselor will begin with
the first tree and begin sending them through the rest of the line when it is
their turn. As youth cross the finish line, they do not need to continue making
the formations, but they can immediately sit down. The first company with all
the youth sitting down wins the game.
IN AND OUT
All the companies will have a starting object (flag, jacket, water bottle, and so
on) in the middle of the playing field. Participants in each company will form
a tunnel by making two lines facing each other and joining hands with the
person across from them. Each company will select a runner who will begin at
his or her company’s starting flag. When the assistant coordinator says “Go!”
runners will run through their tunnel and continue to run in a clockwise circle
around all the other companies. Runners continue running around the outside
until they come back to their company’s tunnel, at which point they run back
through their tunnel to high-five their counselor in the middle. Once they have
high-fived their counselor, they run back out of their tunnel. As they run out,
all the youth forming part of the tunnel sit down as the runner passes them.
The first company that is completely seated wins.
45
CROSSING THE SWEETWATER
Before the game begins, each company designates four members as its “rescue
team.” Only these four have no limits on how many times they may cross the
field. All other members of the company constitute the “handcart company,”
and they may only cross the field if escorted by a member of the rescue team.
Counselors assign ailments to certain participants that will affect the way they
cross the field, such as a broken arm or leg, blisters, frozen feet, snow blindness,
and so on. To begin the game, each company lines up behind its assigned flag.
The rescue team members are at the front of the line, each linking arms with
one member of the handcart company. When the assistant coordinator signals
for the game to start, the first rescue team member and handcart member run
across the field to the flag at the other end. When the handcart company mem-
ber has reached the flag, the next partnership begins running across, and the
first rescue team member returns to the starting flag. This continues until all
handcart company members have reached the finishing flag. The company with
all its members at the finishing flag first wins.
• No rescue team member may escort more than one person at a time.
• No more than one handcart company member may cross at a time.
• No youth may be carried at any point.
In smaller companies, some handcart company members may need to cross
more than once to be fair to larger companies.
A HOUSE OF ORDER—ALTERNATIVE GAME
Each company will line up shoulder-to-shoulder between two objects (flags,

backpacks, jackets, and so on.). The point of the game is for the members of
each company to work together to order themselves according to the category
and instructions given by the assistant coordinator in charge. The assistant
coordinator in charge will call out a topic (age, shoe size, height, and so on.),
and say in which direction the companies should line
up. After which, each company will order
itself according to the instructions. Once a
company is in order, the participants should
sit down. Assistant coordinators can check
the participants to make sure they are in the
right order. The assistant coordinator may
add extra rules for certain rounds as desired
(no talking, eyes closed, and so on).
46
Reflect and Review
3
throughout the day.
Taking It Home
47
48
DAY 4
Sunday Dress
Agenda
9:45–11:00 a.m. Young Men Morning Devotional
9:45–11:00 a.m. Young Women Activity
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Young Women Morning Devotional
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Young Men Activity
12:30–1:45 p.m. Lunch | Variety Show Dress Rehearsal | Musical
Program Rehearsal
1:45–2:00 p.m. Variety Show Guidelines
2:00–2:15 p.m. Travel to Variety Show
2:15–3:30 p.m. Variety Show
3:30–5:00 p.m. Musical Program Dress Rehearsal
4:30–5:50 p.m. Dinner
5:50–6:05 p.m. Reverence—Testimony Discussion
6:05–6:20 p.m. Seating for Musical Program and Devotional
6:20–6:55 p.m. Musical Program
6:55–7:30 p.m. Evening Devotional
7:30–7:40 p.m. Testimony Writing | FSY Medley
7:40–7:50 p.m. Seating for Testimony Meetings
7:50–8:50 p.m. Testimony Meetings
Participant Morning
4
Devotional
If you are asked to lead the morning devotional, do the following:
51
Gospel Study
All Things Testify of Christ
GROUP DISCUSSION
As a group, read Moses 6:63 and 2 Nephi 11:4 and share what you learn from
these verses. Discuss scripture stories that teach you about Jesus Christ through
symbols. For example:
• Abraham sacrificing Isaac (Genesis 22:1–14)
• Joseph being sold in Egypt (Genesis 37)
• The Passover (Exodus 12:3–14)
• Manna from heaven (Exodus 16)
• Moses and the brazen serpent (Numbers 21:4–9; see also Alma 33:18–22)
• Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6)
• The Tree of Life (1 Nephi 8)
• Ammon protecting the king’s sheep (Alma 17:26–39)
PERSONAL STUDY
Read one of the scripture stories listed above or another passage of your choos-
ing. While reading, look for details or themes that remind you of the Savior
and ask yourself, “How does this story help me learn about Christ? How does
this story strengthen my testimony of the Savior?”
SHARE TOGETHER
Share with your group what you learned during your personal study. How will
this study experience affect the way you read the scriptures in the future?
52
4
Morning Devotional
Notes:
53
Young Men and Young
Women Activity
“The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles” is a declaration issued in
the year 2000—a year marking the commemoration of the birth of the Savior
two millennia earlier. Ancient Apostles of Christ testified of His divine nature
and mission. Modern Apostles continue to bear witness that He lives, but their
witness is most effective when it motivates us to gain a witness for ourselves. We
can know—just as His Apostles do—that He lives.
Activity
To help you become more familiar with “The Living Christ,” look for and mark
the following:
• Circle the name of Jesus Christ and all other titles He bears.
• Underline the word testimony and any other forms of the word testify.
• Outline the section giving the physical description of the Savior.
• Circle the roles of the Savior (for example, Creator, Redeemer, Example ).
• Shade words and phrases describing what the Savior did and taught while
on the earth.
• Draw boxes around the phrases describing where He now stands, where
His way leads, and what will happen when He returns to the earth.
54
4
55
THE LIVING CHRIST
THE T ESTIMONY OF THE APOSTLES
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
A
s we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ two Of the Living Christ, the Prophet Joseph wrote: “His
millennia ago, we offer our testimony of the eyes were as a flame of fire; the hair of his head was white
reality of His matchless life and the infinite like the pure snow; his countenance shone above the
virtue of His great atoning sacrifice. None other has had brightness of the sun; and his voice was as the sound of the
so profound an influence upon all who have lived and rushing of great waters, even the voice of Jehovah, saying:
will yet live upon the earth. “I am the first and the last; I am he who liveth, I am
He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father”
Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, (D&C 110:3–4).
He was the creator of the earth. “All things were made by Of Him the Prophet also declared: “And now, after the
him; and without him was not any thing made that was many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the
made” (John 1:3). Though sinless, He was baptized to testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
fulfill all righteousness. He “went about doing good” “For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and
(Acts 10:38), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only
message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow Begotten of the Father—
His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing “That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds
the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are
taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal begotten sons and daughters unto God” (D&C 76:22–24).
existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential We declare in words of solemnity that His priesthood
for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come. and His Church have been restored upon the earth—
He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great “built upon the foundation of . . . apostles and prophets,
atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone”
spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced (Ephesians 2:20).
to die on Calvary’s cross. He gave His life to atone for the We testify that He will someday return to earth. “And
sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall
behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth. see it together” (Isaiah 40:5). He will rule as King of
We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all Kings and reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall
human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded bend and every tongue shall speak in worship before
on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according
Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world. to our works and the desires of our hearts.
He rose from the grave to “become the firstfruits of them We bear testimony, as His duly ordained Apostles—
that slept” (1 Corinthians 15:20). As Risen Lord, He visited that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God.
among those He had loved in life. He also ministered He is the great King Immanuel, who stands today on the
among His “other sheep” (John 10:16) in ancient America. right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and the
In the modern world, He and His Father appeared to the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to
boy Joseph Smith, ushering in the long-promised “dispen- happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come.
sation of the fulness of times” (Ephesians 1:10). God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.
THE FIRST PRESIDENCY THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE
January 1, 2000
57
Discussion Group Activity a disciple in these days of destiny will
be a badge of honor throughout the
eternities. . . .
Topic Question 1 “Wherever you now find yourself
“What think ye of Christ?” (Matthew on the road of discipleship, you are
22:42) on the right road, the road toward
eternal life. Together we can lift and
Elder Neil L. Andersen of the strengthen one another in the great
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: and important days ahead. What-
“Jesus asked the Pharisees, ‘What ever the difficulties confronting us,
think ye of Christ?’ In the final the weaknesses confining us, or the
assessment, our personal disciple- impossibilities surrounding us, let us
ship will not be judged by friends or have faith in the Son of God, who
foes. Rather, as Paul said, ‘We shall declared, ‘All things are possible to
all stand before the judgment seat him that believeth.’ . . .
of Christ.’ At that day the impor-
“I testify that as you love Him, trust
tant question for each of us will be,
Him, believe Him, and follow Him,
‘What thinks Christ of me?’
you will feel His love and approval.
“Even with His love for all mankind, As you ask, ‘What thinks Christ of
Jesus reprovingly referred to some me?’ you will know that you are His
around Him as hypocrites, fools, and disciple; you are His friend. By His
workers of iniquity. He approvingly grace He will do for you what you
called others children of the kingdom cannot do for yourself. . . .
and the light of the world. He disap-
“I witness that Jesus Christ is the
provingly referred to some as blinded
Savior of the world. He suffered and
and unfruitful. He commended
died for our sins and rose the third
others as pure in heart and hungering
day. He is resurrected. In a future
after righteousness. He lamented that
day, every knee will bow and every
some were faithless and of the world,
tongue confess that He is the Christ.
but others He esteemed as chosen,
On that day, our concern will not
disciples, friends. And so we each ask,
be, ‘Do others consider me Chris-
‘What thinks Christ of me?’ . . .
tian?’ At that time, our eyes will be
“In this turbulent environment, we re- fixed on Him, and our souls will
joice in being disciples of Jesus Christ. be riveted on the question, ‘What
We see the Lord’s hand all around thinks Christ of me?’” (“What
us. Our destination is beautifully Thinks Christ of Me?” Ensign or
set before us. ‘This is life eternal,’ Liahona, May 2012, 111–12, 114).
Jesus prayed, ‘that they might know
thee the only true God, and Jesus
Christ, whom thou hast sent.’ Being
58
What do members of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints think
of Christ?
President Dallin H. Oaks of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
4
“The atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ
President Henry B. Eyring, First has been called the ‘most transcen-
Counselor in the First Presidency: dent of all events from creation’s
“I have visited with a woman who dawn to the endless ages of eternity.’
received the miracle of sufficient That sacrifice is the central message
strength to endure unimaginable of all the prophets. It was prefigured
losses with just the simple capacity to by the animal sacrifices prescribed by
repeat endlessly the words ‘I know the law of Moses. A prophet declared
that my Redeemer lives.’ That faith that their whole meaning ‘point[ed]
and those words of testimony were to that great and last sacrifice [of]
still there in the mist that obscured . . . the Son of God, yea, infinite and
but did not erase memories of her eternal’ (Alma 34:14). Jesus Christ en-
childhood. dured incomprehensible suffering to
make Himself a sacrifice for the sins
“I was stunned to learn that another of all. That sacrifice offered the ulti-
woman had forgiven a person who mate good—the pure Lamb without
had wronged her for years. I was blemish—for the ultimate measure
surprised and asked her why she had of evil—the sins of the entire world.
chosen to forgive and forget so many In the memorable words of Eliza R.
years of spiteful abuse. Snow:
“She said quietly, ‘It was the hardest His precious blood he freely spilt;
thing I have ever done, but I just
His life he freely gave,
knew I had to do it. So I did.’ Her
faith that the Savior would forgive A sinless sacrifice for guilt,
her if she forgave others prepared A dying world to save. (“How Great
her with a feeling of peace and hope the Wisdom and the Love,” Hymns,
as she faced death just months after no. 195)
she had forgiven her unrepentant
“That sacrifice—the Atonement of
adversary.
Jesus Christ—is at the center of the
“She asked me, ‘When I get there, plan of salvation” (“Sacrifice,” Ensign
how will it be in heaven?’ or Liahona, May 2012, 19).
“And I said, ‘I know just from what I Elder D. Todd Christofferson of
have seen of your capacity to exercise the Quorum of the Twelve Apos-
faith and to forgive that it will be a tles: “The Prophet Joseph Smith
wonderful homecoming for you’” confirmed the Savior’s central role in
(“Mountains to Climb,” Ensign or our doctrine in one definitive sen-
Liahona, May 2012, 25). tence: ‘The fundamental principles of
our religion are the testimony of the
Apostles and Prophets, concerning
59
Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, your heart unless your heart is open.
and rose again the third day, and Without a heartfelt desire, you can
ascended into heaven; and all other participate in sacrament meetings,
things which pertain to our religion classes, and Church activities and do
are only appendages to it.’ Joseph the things I will tell you, but it won’t
Smith’s testimony of Jesus is that He make much difference. But if your
lives, ‘for [he] saw him, even on the heart is open and willing, like the
right hand of God; and [he] heard heart of a child, let me tell you what
the voice bearing record that he is the you can do to be converted.
Only Begotten of the Father’ (D&C “As a first step, you must lay aside any
76:23; see also verse 22). I appeal to all feeling of pride that is so common in
. . . to seek through prayer and study the world today. By this I mean the
of the scriptures that same witness of attitude that rejects the authority of
the divine character, the Atonement, God to rule in our lives. This attitude
and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. was described by the Lord to Joseph
Accept His doctrine by repenting, Smith when He said, ‘They seek not
being baptized, receiving the gift of the Lord to establish his righteous-
the Holy Ghost, and then throughout ness, but every man walketh in his
your life following the laws and cov- own way, and after the image of his
enants of the gospel of Jesus Christ” own god.’ You hear it expressed today
(“The Doctrine of Christ,” Ensign or in phrases such as ‘Do your own
Liahona, May 2012, 89). thing’ or ‘Right and wrong depend
on what I feel is right for me.’ That at-
titude is a rebellion against God, just
Topic Question 2 as Lucifer rebelled against God in the
How does what you think of Jesus premortal world. He rejected God’s
Christ influence who you become? right to declare the truth and estab-
lish the law. Satan wanted, and still
Elder D. Todd Christofferson of wants, the power to declare arbitrarily
the Quorum of the Twelve Apos- what is right and wrong. Our beloved
tles: “The ancient prophet Jeremiah Creator does not force us to accept
spoke of the law of God, the gospel, His authority, but willingly submit-
being written in our hearts. He quotes ting to that authority is the first step
the Lord speaking about us, His peo- in conversion.
ple in the latter days: ‘I will put my
law in their inward parts, and write it “Further, for the gospel to be written
in their hearts; and will be their God, in your heart, you need to know what
and they shall be my people.’ it is and grow to understand it more
fully. That means you will study it.
“Do you want this for yourself? I When I say ‘study,’ I mean some-
can tell you how that can happen, thing more than reading. It is a good
but it must be something you want. thing sometimes to read a book of
The gospel cannot be written in
60
scripture within a set period of time
to get an overall sense of its message,
but for conversion, you should care
4
your school and work, and the needs
of those around you. Most of all, you
should pray to be filled with the love
more about the amount of time you of Christ. This love is given to those
spend in the scriptures than about the who are true followers of Jesus Christ,
amount you read in that time. I see who ask for it with all the energy of
you sometimes reading a few verses, their heart. This love is the fruit of the
stopping to ponder them, carefully tree of life, and tasting it is a major
reading the verses again, and as you part of your conversion because once
think about what they mean, praying you have felt your Savior’s love for
for understanding, asking questions you, even the smallest part, you will
in your mind, waiting for spiritual feel secure, and a love for Him and
impressions, and writing down the for your Heavenly Father will grow
impressions and insights that come within you. In your heart you will
so you can remember and learn more. want to do what these holy beings ask
Studying in this way, you may not of you. Go often to your closet, your
read a lot of chapters or verses in a secret place, your wilderness. Thank
half hour, but you will be giving place God for your blessings; ask for His
in your heart for the word of God, help; ask Him to bestow upon you the
and He will be speaking to you. Re- pure love of Christ. Sometimes fasting
member Alma’s description of what it will help.
feels like: ‘It beginneth to enlarge my “After Amulek talked about prayer,
soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten he spoke about something else that is
my understanding, yea, it beginneth an important element of your con-
to be delicious to me.’ You will know version—serving others. Otherwise,
that the gospel is being written in he said, ‘your prayer is vain, and
your heart, that your conversion is availeth you nothing.’ In other words,
happening, as the word of the Lord to be converted, you must not only
from His prophets, past and present, open your heart to a knowledge of
feels more and more delicious to your the gospel and the love of God, you
soul. must practice the gospel law. You
“I mentioned praying as you study to cannot fully understand or appreci-
understand the scriptures, but your ate it unless you personally apply it
prayers must not be limited to that. in your life. Jesus said that He came
In the Book of Mormon, Amulek to serve, not to be served. So it must
tells us we should pray about every- be with you. You must look outward
thing in our lives. He says, ‘Pour out and care about others. You can be
your souls [to God] in your closets, compassionate; you can be friendly;
and your secret places, and in your you can share; you can help others in
wilderness.’ Your Heavenly Father a hundred small ways. As you do, the
wants you to pray about your hopes gospel of Jesus Christ will become a
and fears, your friends and family, part of you.
61
“Let me mention one other thing. In Consecrated Life,” Ensign or Liahona,
ancient times when people wanted to Nov. 2010, 19).
worship the Lord and seek His bless- How does thinking of Jesus Christ
ings, they often brought a gift. For ex- influence your choices?
ample, when they went to the temple,
they brought a sacrifice to place on President Thomas S. Monson: “As
the altar. After His Atonement and I’ve contemplated the various aspects
Resurrection, the Savior said He of choice, I’ve put them into three
would no longer accept burnt offer- categories: first, the right of choice;
ings of animals. The gift or sacrifice second, the responsibility of choice;
He will accept now is ‘a broken heart and third, the results of choice. I call
and a contrite spirit.’ As you seek the these the three Rs of choice.
blessing of conversion, you can offer “I mention first the right of choice. I
the Lord the gift of your broken, or am so grateful to a loving Heavenly
repentant, heart and your contrite, or Father for His gift of agency, or the
obedient, spirit. In reality, it is the gift right to choose. President David
of yourself—what you are and what O. McKay, ninth President of the
you are becoming” (“When Thou Art Church, said, ‘Next to the bestowal of
Converted,” Ensign or Liahona, May life itself, the right to direct that life is
2004, 11–12). God’s greatest gift to man.’
“A consecrated life is a beautiful “. . . Within the confines of whatever
thing. Its strength and serenity are ‘as circumstances we find ourselves, we
a very fruitful tree which is planted in will always have the right to choose.
a goodly land, by a pure stream, that
“Next, with the right of choice comes
yieldeth much precious fruit’ (D&C
the responsibility to choose. We
97:9). Of particular significance is
cannot be neutral; there is no middle
the influence of a consecrated man or
ground. The Lord knows this; Lucifer
woman upon others, especially those
knows this. As long as we live upon
closest and dearest. The consecration
this earth, Lucifer and his hosts will
of many who have gone before us and
never abandon the hope of claiming
others who live among us has helped
our souls.
lay the foundation for our happiness.
In like manner future generations will “Our Heavenly Father did not launch
take courage from your consecrated us on our eternal journey without
life, acknowledging their debt to you providing the means whereby we
for the possession of all that truly could receive from Him God-given
matters. May we consecrate ourselves guidance to assist in our safe return
as sons and daughters of God, ‘that at the end of mortal life. I speak of
when he shall appear we shall be like prayer. I speak too of the whisperings
him, for we shall see him as he is . . .’ from that still, small voice within each
(Moroni 7:48)” (“Reflections on a of us, and I do not overlook the holy
scriptures. . . .
62
“Decisions are constantly before us.
To make them wisely, courage is
needed—the courage to say no, the
Topic Question 3
4
Why is Jesus Christ the only way to
salvation?
courage to say yes. Decisions do deter-
mine destiny. President Russell M. Nelson of the
“I plead with you to make a deter- First Presidency: “Central to God’s
mination right here, right now, not eternal plan is the mission of His
to deviate from the path which will Son, Jesus Christ. He came to redeem
lead to our goal: eternal life with our God’s children. Because of the Lord’s
Father in Heaven. . . . Atonement, resurrection (or immor-
tality) became a reality. Because of
“Finally, . . . I speak of the results of the Atonement, eternal life became a
choice. All of our choices have con- possibility for all who would qualify.
sequences, some of which have little Jesus so explained:
or nothing to do with our eternal
salvation and others of which have “‘I am the resurrection, and the life:
everything to do with it. he that believeth in me, though he
were dead, yet shall he live:
“Whether you wear a green T-shirt
or a blue one makes no difference in “‘And whosoever liveth and believeth
the long run. However, whether you in me shall never die.’
decide to push a key on your com- “For the Atonement of the Lord and
puter which will take you to pornog- His gift of resurrection—for this sub-
raphy can make all the difference in lime message of Easter—thanks be to
your life. You will have just taken a God!” (“Thanks Be to God,” Ensign
step off the straight, safe path. If a or Liahona, May 2012, 78).
friend pressures you to drink alcohol Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the
or to try drugs and you succumb to Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
the pressure, you are taking a detour “I do not know who . . . may need to
from which you may not return. . . . hear the message of forgiveness . . . ,
May we keep our eyes, our hearts, and but however late you think you are,
our determination focused on that however many chances you think you
goal which is eternal and worth any have missed, however many mistakes
price we will have to pay, regardless you feel you have made or talents you
of the sacrifice we must make to reach think you don’t have, or however far
it. . . . from home and family and God you
“. . . You are of a noble birthright. feel you have traveled, I testify that
Eternal life in the kingdom of our you have not traveled beyond the
Father is your goal” (“The Three Rs reach of divine love. It is not possible
of Choice,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. for you to sink lower than the infinite
2010, 67–69). light of Christ’s Atonement shines.
63
“So if you have made covenants, keep Ghost, and then throughout your life
them. If you haven’t made them, following the laws and covenants of
make them. If you have made them the gospel of Jesus Christ.
and broken them, repent and repair “. . . I express my own witness that
them. It is never too late so long as Jesus of Nazareth was and is the Son
the Master of the vineyard says there of God, the very Messiah of ancient
is time. Please listen to the prompt- prophecy. He is the Christ, who
ing of the Holy Spirit telling you suffered in Gethsemane, died on the
right now, this very moment, that cross, was buried, and who indeed
you should accept the atoning gift of rose again the third day. He is the
the Lord Jesus Christ and enjoy the resurrected Lord, through whom we
fellowship of His labor. Don’t delay. shall all be resurrected and by whom
It’s getting late” (“The Laborers in the all who will may be redeemed and
Vineyard,” Ensign or Liahona, May exalted in His heavenly kingdom.
2012, 33). This is our doctrine, confirming all
Elder D. Todd Christofferson of prior testaments of Jesus Christ and
the Quorum of the Twelve Apos- stated anew for our own time” (“The
tles: “The Prophet Joseph Smith Doctrine of Christ,” Ensign or Lia-
confirmed the Savior’s central role in hona, May 2012, 89).
our doctrine in one definitive sen-
tence: ‘The fundamental principles of What role does Jesus Christ’s sacrifice
our religion are the testimony of the for me play in the great plan of hap-
Apostles and Prophets, concerning piness—the plan of salvation?
Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried,
President Boyd K. Packer, Presi-
and rose again the third day, and
dent of the Quorum of the Twelve
ascended into heaven; and all other
Apostles: “It was understood from
things which pertain to our religion
the beginning that in mortality we
are only appendages to it.’ Joseph
would fall short of being perfect. It
Smith’s testimony of Jesus is that He
was not expected that we would live
lives, ‘for [he] saw him, even on the
without transgressing one law or
right hand of God; and [he] heard
another. . . .
the voice bearing record that he is the
Only Begotten of the Father’ (D&C “From the Pearl of Great Price, we
76:23; see also verse 22). I appeal to all understand that ‘no unclean thing
who hear or read this message to seek can dwell [in the kingdom of God],’
through prayer and study of the scrip- and so a way was provided for all who
tures that same witness of the divine sin to repent and become worthy of
character, the Atonement, and the the presence of our Father in Heaven
Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Accept once more.
His doctrine by repenting, being bap- “A Mediator, a Redeemer, was chosen,
tized, receiving the gift of the Holy one who would live His life perfectly,
64
commit no sin, and offer ‘himself a
sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends
of the law, unto all those who have a
4
“‘I would that ye should take upon
you the name of Christ, all you that
have entered into the covenant with
broken heart and a contrite spirit; and God that ye should be obedient unto
unto none else can the ends of the law the end of your lives. . . .
be answered.’ “‘And I would that ye should remem-
“Concerning the importance of the ber also, that this is the name that I
Atonement, in Alma we learn, ‘For it said I should give unto you that never
is expedient that an atonement should should be blotted out, except it be
be made; . . . or else all mankind must through transgression; therefore, take
unavoidably perish.’ heed that ye do not transgress, that
“If you have made no mistakes, then the name be not blotted out of your
you do not need the Atonement. If hearts’ (Mosiah 5:8, 11).
you have made mistakes, and all of us “We take the name of Christ upon us
have, whether minor or serious, then in the waters of baptism. We renew
you have an enormous need to find the effect of that baptism each week
out how they can be erased so that as we partake of the sacrament,
you are no longer in darkness. signifying our willingness to take His
“‘[Jesus Christ] is the light and the name upon us and promising always
life of the world.’ As we fix our gaze to remember Him (see Doctrine and
on His teachings, we will be guided Covenants 20:77, 79).
to the harbor of spiritual safety. “Do we realize how blessed we are
“The third article of faith states, ‘We to take upon us the name of God’s
believe that through the Atonement Beloved and Only Begotten Son?
of Christ, all mankind may be saved, Do we understand how significant
by obedience to the laws and ordi- that is? The Savior’s name is the only
nances of the Gospel” (“The Atone- name under heaven by which man
ment,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, can be saved (see 2 Nephi 31:21)”
76–77). (“The Importance of a Name,” Ensign
or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 79).
How does taking His name upon me
Topic Question 4 influence who I am?
What does it mean to take Elder Clayton M. Christensen,
His name upon me? (see former Area Seventy: “Some of you
Doctrine and Covenants 20:77). who are familiar with Oxford Uni-
versity may know that it’s the world’s
Elder M. Russell Ballard of the oldest university. The building that
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: I lived in as a student was built in
“King Benjamin taught his people in 1410—beautiful to look at, uncom-
Book of Mormon times: fortable to live in. When I arrived at
65
Oxford, I realized it was going to be “I read the first page of the Book
difficult to be an active member of of Mormon. When I got down to
the Church. The Rhodes Scholarship the bottom of the page, I stopped.
Trust, which had given me my schol- I thought about what I had read on
arship, had a lot of activities for the that page, and I asked myself, ‘Could
recipients of the scholarship. this have been written by a charlatan
“As I looked at the extent to which who was trying to deceive people, or
I wanted to be involved in church, I was this really written by a prophet
realized that I didn’t know the Book of God? And what did it mean for
of Mormon was true. I had read it me in my life?’ Then I put the book
several times but usually as an assign- down and knelt in prayer and asked
ment—from my parents or a Brigham God again, ‘Please tell me if this is
Young University instructor. But this a true book.’ Then I sat in the chair,
time I desperately needed to know if picked up the book, turned the page,
the Book of Mormon was true. So I read it, paused at the bottom, and did
decided that I would commit every the same thing. I did this for an hour
evening from 11:00 to 12:00 to read- every night, night after night, in that
ing the Book of Mormon to find out cold, damp room at Oxford.
if it was true. “One evening, by the time I got to
“I wondered if I dared spend that the chapters at the end of 2 Nephi, I
much time because I was in a very said my prayer, sat in my chair, and
demanding academic program, opened the book. All of a sudden
studying applied econometrics. I was there came into that room a beautiful,
going to try to finish the program in warm, loving Spirit that surrounded
two years, whereas most people in the me and permeated my soul, envelop-
program finished it in three. I didn’t ing me in a feeling of love that I had
know if I could afford allocating an not imagined I could feel. I began to
hour a day to this effort. cry. As I looked through my tears at
the words in the Book of Mormon, I
“But nonetheless I did. I began at could see truth in those words that I
11:00 by kneeling in prayer near a never imagined I could comprehend
little heater in the stone wall, and before. I could see the glories of eter-
I prayed out loud. I told God how nity, and I could see what God had in
desperate I was to find out if the Book store for me as one of His sons. That
of Mormon was true. I told Him that Spirit stayed with me the whole hour
if He would reveal to me that it was and every other evening as I prayed
true, I then intended to dedicate my and read the Book of Mormon in my
life to building His kingdom. I told room. That same Spirit would always
Him that if it wasn’t true, I needed return, and it changed my heart and
to know that for certain too because my life forever.
then I would dedicate my life to find-
ing out what was true.
66
“I look back at the conflict I had
experienced, wondering whether I
could afford to spend an hour every
4
invite you to set aside an hour every
day and find out for yourself if the
Book of Mormon is true, because
day apart from the study of applied it will change your heart as it has
econometrics to find out if the Book changed mine. Then someday you’ll
of Mormon was true. I use applied be able to go to the place where you
econometrics maybe once a year, but lived at the time that God revealed
I use my knowledge that the Book of this to you and point at it for your
Mormon is the word of God many children and spouse and say, ‘That’s
times every day of my life. Of all the a sacred place because that’s where I
education I have ever pursued, that is learned that Jesus is the Christ’” (“The
the single most useful piece of knowl- Most Useful Piece of Knowledge,”
edge I ever gained. Liahona, Jan. 2009, 22–24).
“For those of you who may still be
living on the testimonies of others, I
67
Notes:
68
Variety Show
An entertaining show put on by your peers consisting of a series of short,
unrelated acts or performances. Prepare to be entertained and amazed!
A FEW GUIDELINES:
Instructions for Performers
• Acts must not contain any vulgar or suggestive movements. For safety, lifting
and acrobatic movements are not allowed.
• Any music in your act (piano, vocal performance, background music, and so
on) must be clean, with no suggestive words or messages, including songs
that mention substances contrary to the Word of Wisdom. Changing the
lyrics to be in compliance with FSY standards is not enough.
• Food or liquid of any kind may not be used, including toothpaste.
• Because we want to respect the reverence of Church music, please do not
audition with any Church-related musical numbers or scriptures.
• Content must be entertaining, yet clean and uplifting.
Performer Dress Code
• Wear the costumes you plan to wear for the variety show to the dress re-
hearsal. No pajamas, please.
• Consider when wearing dance wear to be modest onstage. If it is tight or
revealing, consider covering with a shirt or costume of some sort.
Audience
• Sit with your company.
• Cheer for each act.
• Be supportive and respectful of each participant and performance.
• Instead of clapping along with the music, snap fingers. This allows everyone
to continue to hear the performer.
70
Reverence—Testimony
4
Discussion
“Reverence is profound respect and love. When you have a reverent attitude
toward God, you honor Him, express your gratitude to Him, and obey His
commandments” (True to the Faith [2004], 145).
What is the difference between being reverent and just being quiet?

“And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with
light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with
light comprehendeth all things. Therefore, sanctify yourselves that your minds
become single to God, and the days will come that you shall see him; for he
will unveil his face unto you, and it shall be in his own time, and in his own
way, and according to his own will” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:67–68).
How will reverence invite revelation into your life?
A Testimony Of The Gospel
“A testimony of the gospel is a personal witness borne to our souls by the Holy
Ghost that certain facts of eternal significance are true and that we know them
to be true” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Testimony,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2008, 26).
“A testimony is what we know to be true in our minds and in our hearts by the
witness of the Holy Ghost (see Doctrine and Covenants 8:2). As we profess
truth rather than admonish, exhort, or simply share interesting experiences,
we invite the Holy Ghost to confirm the verity of our words” (David A. Bednar,
“More Diligent and Concerned at Home,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 19).
“Too many of our members’ testimonies linger on ‘I am thankful’ and ‘I love,’
and too few are able to say with humble but sincere clarity, ‘I know’. . . .
“Our testimony meetings need to be more centered on the Savior, the doctrines
of the gospel, the blessings of the Restoration, and the teachings of the scrip-
tures. We need to replace stories, travelogues, and lectures with pure testimo-
nies” (M. Russell Ballard, “Pure Testimony,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2004, 41).
71
A testimony is:
• A personal witness of truth.
• Centered on the Savior, doctrine of the gospel, the Restoration, and teachings
of the scriptures.
• Simple statements shared with sincerity.
• A humble declaration of what you know and feel.
A testimony is not:
• Sharing interesting stories, experiences, or travelogues.
• Lecturing, preaching, or giving a sermon.
• Lingering on expressions of what you are grateful for or love.
More testimony tips:
• Consider bearing your testimony seriously and sincerely. Peer pressure
shouldn’t influence you.
• Don’t be critical of others’ testimonies―we’re all learning.
• Focus on the Savior and how you are improving; do not describe details of
past sins and bad conduct.
• Keep your testimony short and to the point.
Adapted from Lara Mayo Bangerter, “Testimony Tips,” New Era, Oct. 1993,
34–35. Feb. 14, 2013).
72
Musical Program
4
“To gain and forever hold on to a testimony of
gospel truths is worth whatever price in spiritual
preparation we may be required to pay”
(M. Russell Ballard, “Pure Testimony,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2004, 40).
Topic:
Notes:
73
“Without our Redeemer’s infinite Atonement, not one
of us would have hope of ever returning to our Heav-
enly Father. Without His Resurrection, death would
be the end. Our Savior’s Atonement made eternal life
a possibility and immortality a reality for all”
(Russell M. Nelson, “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,”
Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 93).
74
My Testimony of the Gospel
4
“You don’t have to wonder about what is true. You do not have to wonder
whom you can safely trust. Through personal revelation, you can receive your
own witness that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that Joseph Smith
is a prophet, and that this is the Lord’s Church. Regardless of what others may
say or do, no one can ever take away a witness borne to your heart and mind
about what is true”
(Russell M. Nelson, “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,”
My testimony:
“Your testimony of Jesus Christ is your personal fortress,

the security for your soul. When my great-grandfather
and his fellow pioneers built the Heber fort, they put up
one log at a time until the fort was ‘fitly framed together’
[Ephesians 2:21] and they were protected. So it is with
testimony. One by one we gain a witness from the Holy
Spirit as He speaks to our own spirit, teaching ‘truth in
the inward parts’ [Psalm 51:6]”
(Ronald A. Rasband, “Build a Fortress of Spirituality and Protection,”
75
Reflect and Review
throughout the day.
Taking It Home
DAY 5
Casual dress
AGENDA

9:30–10:00 a.m. Goal Setting Review
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. For the Strength of Youth Activity
12:30–1:30 p.m. Lunch
1:30–1:45 p.m. Travel to Living the Gospel Activity
1:45–3:00 p.m. Living the Gospel Activity
3:00–3:15 p.m. Slide Show
3:15–4:30 p.m. On-Campus Free Time*
4:30–6:00 p.m. Dinner
6:00–6:15 p.m. Picture Taking
6:15–8:00 p.m. Dance
8:15–8:45 p.m. Taking It Home Message
8:45–9:00 p.m. Travel to Company Spots
9:00–9:30 p.m. Company Taking It Home
9:45–10:20 p.m. Head Count | Quiet Time—Get Ready for Bed Journaling
10:25 p.m. Prayer
*Use free time to begin packing and making preparations to return home.
Participant Morning
5
Devotional
If you are asked to lead the morning devotional, do the
following:
79
Gospel Study
Ask and Ye Shall Receive
GROUP DISCUSSION
Read 1 Nephi 11:1; 2 Nephi 4:15–16; Doctrine and Covenants 76:19; and Doc-
trine and Covenants 138:11 and find out how pondering helped Nephi, Joseph
Smith, and Joseph F. Smith. What does it mean to ponder the scriptures? Why
is it important to take time to ponder as you study?
Asking questions about a verse can help you ponder its meaning. For example,
in Revelation 3:20, you could ponder questions such as the following: “What
could the door represent? How long has He been knocking? How do I open
the door? What does it mean that the Savior will ‘sup’ with me?”
Other questions you could ask as you read the scriptures include:
• What is Heavenly Father’s message for me in this verse?
• What would it have felt like to be there?
• How would I share this with others?
• What do I feel inspired to do?
PERSONAL STUDY

choice (or your counselor can help you find one). While reading, select a few
verses and ponder some questions that help you understand more about these
verses.
SHARE TOGETHER
Share with your group what you learned during your personal study. How will
you apply this principle to your future study of the gospel?
80
Goal Setting Review
5
REFLECT: THINK • LEARN • REVIEW • PONDER
Review: Progress and Accomplishments

Use the pattern of “reflect and review” to assess the goals you set during home
evening goal setting on Day One.
Think—What Did You Learn? What Did The Company Learn?
What have you learned about setting and achieving goals?
How are the goals you set helping you progress along the covenant path?
How did your efforts help others?
What impact did your company’s efforts to serve and love others have on you?
81
When you return home, how can you apply what you have learned from your
goal-setting experience this week?
Accomplishing goals brings power and meaning to your life. Why is it impor-
tant to continue setting and accomplishing meaningful goals after your return
home?
“We must keep the doctrine and gospel of Jesus

Christ at the center of our goals and plans. Without
Him, no eternal goal is possible, and our plans to
achieve our eternal goals will surely fail”
(M. Russell Ballard, “Return and Receive,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 64).
82
5
Morning Devotional
Notes:
83
84
For the Strength of Youth
5
Activity
The FSY Guide: Become familiar with For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for
Making Choices.
Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the guide. What are your
thoughts/impressions? What questions do you have? See if you can identify
some eternal truths, invitations, and promised blessings. Note which principles
you have seen in your own life or in the life of someone you know. Specify
which principles you would like to work on. Look through the guide and
answer the questions below:
Scan the code with

your phone to access
the FSY Guide.
What are your initial thoughts/impressions?
What questions do you have?
85
Which principles “eternal truths, invitations, and promised blessings” have you
seen in your own life or in the life of someone you know?
Which principles would you like to work on?
How will you apply these principles at FSY and when you go home?
How can growing closer to the Savior help you in your everyday life?
Additional Notes:
86
FSY GUIDE STORIES & DISCUSSION
5
Take a few minutes to list some choices (big or small) that youth are faced with
in today’s world:
Select a couple of the “choices” from your list above. How might someone ap-
ply the principles found in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices
to be an example to others and grow closer to the Savior?
1.
2.
3.
87
DEEPER DIVE
Pick one of the above “choices” for deeper study:
How might prayer influence this choice?
What in For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices could provide
direction to make decisions?
In addition to For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, what are
other sources that could help?
How might it be helpful to consider how our Heavenly Father feels?
88
Notes:
5
89
90
5
91
Living the Gospel Activity
GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH FAMILY HISTORY WORK
“We would like to talk with you about the greatest

challenge, the greatest cause, and the greatest work
on earth. . . .I am inviting every young woman and
every young man between the ages of 12 and 18
in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
to enlist in the youth battalion of the Lord to help
gather Israel. . . Any time you do anything that
helps anyone—on either side of the veil—take a step
toward making covenants with God and receiving
their essential baptismal and temple ordinances,
you are helping to gather Israel”
(Russell M. Nelson, “Hope of Israel” [worldwide youth devotional, June 3, 2018],
ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Objective: To help you understand the importance of the Lord’s directive to

gather Israel through family history work. Pay attention to how you feel as you
learn about how to connect with your ancestors.
“Mercifully, the invitation to ‘come unto Christ’

[Jacob 1:7] can also be extended to those who died
without a knowledge of the gospel. . . . We gather
pedigree charts, create family group sheets, and do
temple work vicariously to gather individuals unto
the Lord and into their families”
(Russell M. Nelson, “The Gathering of Scattered Israel,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov.
2006, 80–81).
92
Introduction: How much do you know about your personal family history?
Take a moment to fill out this family tree as best as you can, from memory.
5
My Family Tree
Great Great Great Great Great Great Great Great
Grandfather Grandmother Grandfather Grandmother Grandfather Grandmother Grandfather Grandmother
Grandfather Grandmother Grandfather Grandmother
Father Mother
Me
93
GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH FAMILY HISTORY WORK
Instructions: Discover your roots and learn from your family history! With
your team and individually, review the activities listed below. Each team mem-
ber should individually choose to do one or more of the activities that is most
meaningful to them. Complete as many activities as you can in the time given.
What lessons can you learn as you have fun discovering the past?
Discovery Part One: Share Your History
•S hare your past. Tell a member of your team one of your favorite stories
about your parents or grandparents. Tell them why it is your favorite and
listen to a story of theirs in return.
•R ecognize their work. Form a circle. Each member of the team names
something that they have today because of the work, sacrifice, or faithful-
ness of their ancestors—no repeats! Keep playing until you go around the
circle four times.
•D iscover your heritage. If you have an electronic device, find out what
country your ancestors came from. Learn a new fact about that country’s
culture or traditions and share it with your team.
•S hare a recipe. Tell a member of your team about a favorite family recipe
and where it originated.
•W hat’s in a name? Share with a member of your team how you got your
name and ask them about their name.
•T ell a story. Tell a member of your team about a family heirloom and the
story behind its significance.
FamilySearch Memories App

•S
how and tell. Find a favorite photo of one of your ancestors and tell your
group who is in the photo and why it is important to you.
FamilySearch Family Tree App

• Family reunion. Find your closest relative in your company using the “Rel-
atives near me” feature. Identify which of your ancestors link you together.
94
Discovery Part Two: Record Your History
5
Find a new story. Call a family member and ask them to tell you a story or
memory they have of a relative.
•S trengthen generations. Record your testimony in a letter or in your
journal that you would like to share with your posterity when they reach
your age.
•V isit your history. If you have access to the internet, go to billiongraves.
com and locate where one of your ancestors is buried. Make plans to visit
the site with a family member when you go home.
•S hare about your family. If you have access to social media, create a post
about why family history is important to you and share your testimony of
families.
•S pread gratitude. Write a letter to a family member who has blessed your
life. Tell them why they are important to you and deliver the letter when
you return home.
• If you could ask. Think of a question regarding something you wish you
knew about your ancestors. Ask yourself the same question and record your
response in your journal for posterity.
• Reach out. Find an extended family member on social media that you do
not already follow and add them to your social media feed.
FamilySearch Memories App

•C
apture moments. Preserve and share a story or photo about yourself or
an ancestor using this app.
•R
emembering family recipes. Add a family recipe as a photo or a docu-
ment to your memories in this app.
FamilySearch Family Tree App

•M
ap my ancestors. See if you have ancestors who have lived within a 100-
mile radius of your current location.
•C
omplete ordinances. Find a family name that needs ordinances com-
pleted and plan a time to take it to the temple.
95
Personal Development Plan
“My dear extraordinary youth, you were sent to

earth at this precise time, the most crucial time in
the history of the world, to help gather Israel. There
is nothing happening on this earth right now that
is more important than that. There is nothing of
greater consequence. Absolutely nothing”
(Russell M. Nelson, “Hope of Israel” [worldwide youth devotional, June 3, 2018],
ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
Take a few minutes to thoughtfully answer the following questions.

As you were participating in this Living the Gospel Activity, how did the Spirit
guide you to recognize new ways to gather Israel every day? What part of the
activity was especially meaningful to you?
96
Our prophet has invited each of us “to enlist in the youth battalion of the Lord
to help gather Israel.” What have you done to accept this invitation? What
5
impact has it had on your life?
This activity has been one of discovery. To follow a pattern for growth, you will
need a plan that you can act on in faith. Think of something you can do over
the next few weeks to help others—on either side of the veil—come closer to
Christ.
Make a specific goal to act on your plan and write it below. If you have access to the Gospel
Living App, add your goal in the My Life tab. You may consider an invitation from Presi-
dent Russell M. Nelson or one of the following suggestions.
• Establish a pattern of regular temple attendance.
• Make a weekly sacrifice of time for family history work.
• Create and commit to a plan to improve your journaling habits (writing on
a regular basis, recording more spiritual impressions, recording gratitude,
and so on).
97
“Start by making sure your words and actions are
inspired by love for God and His children. Sharing
the gospel should not be done in a spirit of conten-
tion but rather with clarity, meekness, and kindness.
You can be loving toward others even if you don’t
agree with their views”
(For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, 33).
ray daily to know how you can be an instrument in God’s hands to share the
P
gospel with those around you.
Contact those you minister to on a more regular basis. Find ways to minister
that will be most meaningful to each individual.
Follow the prophet’s counsel:
“As you study your scriptures... I encourage you

to make a list of all that the Lord has promised
He will do for covenant Israel. I think you will be
astounded! Ponder these promises. Talk about them
with your family and friends. Then live and watch
for these promises to be fulfilled in your own life,”
(Russell M. Nelson, “Let God Prevail,” Ensign or Liahona, Oct. 2020, 95).
I will help gather Israel by:
98
I will act on my plan in faith by:
5

My plan will help me with my personal growth after FSY by:
“Do you young people want a sure way to eliminate

the influence of the adversary in your life? Immerse
yourself in searching for your ancestors, prepare
their names for the sacred vicarious ordinances
available in the temple, and then go to the temple to
stand as proxy for them”
(Richard G. Scott, “The Joy of Redeeming the Dead,” (General Conference, October
2012), ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
99
Taking It Home
“Joy and happiness come from living the way the
Lord wants you to live and from service to God
and others. . . .
“You have a heritage: Honor it.
“You will meet sin: Shun it.
“You have the truth: Live it.
“You have a testimony: Share it”
(Thomas S. Monson, “The Lighthouse of the Lord,” Ensign, Nov. 1990, 98–99).
Think about your week at FSY. Record the experiences you have had that have
been the most meaningful and memorable.
How can you take the happiness you feel at FSY home with you? How do the
activities at FSY apply to your life? How can you use the counselor devotional
topics and lesson outlines in home evening to share your experiences with your
family? How will the commitments you have kept this week help you continue
to “come unto Christ” when you return home?
Commitments I plan to keep at home:
100
Reflect and Review
5
Your company will meet together for this Reflect and Review. You will have the
opportunity to reflect on and share what you have learned and felt throughout
the day.
Taking It Home
101
102
MUSIC
The Spirit of God
(Hymns, no. 2)
The Spirit of God like a fire is burning! The veil o’er the earth is beginning to burst.
The latter-day glory begins to come forth; CHORUS
The visions and blessings of old are
returning, We’ll call in our solemn assemblies in spirit,
And angels are coming to visit the earth. To spread forth the kingdom of heaven
abroad,
CHORUS: That we through our faith may begin to
We’ll sing and we’ll shout with the armies of inherit
heaven, The visions and blessings and glories of God.
Hosanna, hosanna to God and the Lamb! CHORUS
Let glory to them in the highest be given,
Henceforth and forever, Amen and amen! How blessed the day when the lamb and the
lion
The Lord is extending the Saints’ Shall lie down together without any ire,
understanding, And Ephraim be crowned with his blessing
Restoring their judges and all as at first. in Zion,
The knowledge and power of God are As Jesus descends with his chariot of fire!
expanding; CHORUS
Redeemer of Israel
(Hymns, no. 6)
Redeemer of Israel, How long we have wandered
Our only delight, As strangers in sin
On whom for a blessing we call, And cried in the desert for thee!
Our shadow by day Our foes have rejoiced
And our pillar by night, When our sorrows they’ve seen,
Our King, our Deliv’rer, our all! But Israel will shortly be free.
We know he is coming As children of Zion,
To gather his sheep Good tidings for us.
And lead them to Zion in love, The tokens already appear.
For why in the valley Fear not, and be just,
Of death should they weep For the kingdom is ours.
Or in the lone wilderness rove? The hour of redemption is near.
We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet

(Hymns, no. 19)
We thank thee, O God, for a prophet We doubt not the Lord nor his goodness.
To guide us in these latter days. We’ve proved him in days that are past.
We thank thee for sending the gospel The wicked who fight against Zion
To lighten our minds with its rays. Will surely be smitten at last.
We thank thee for every blessing
Bestowed by thy bounteous hand. We’ll sing of his goodness and mercy.
We feel it a pleasure to serve thee We’ll praise him by day and by night,
And love to obey thy command. Rejoice in his glorious gospel,
And bask in its life-giving light.
When dark clouds of trouble hang o’er us Thus on to eternal perfection
And threaten our peace to destroy, The honest and faithful will go,
There is hope smiling brightly before us, While they who reject this glad message
And we know that deliv’rance is nigh. Shall never such happiness know.
104
Joseph Smith’s First Prayer
(Hymns, no. 26)
Oh, how lovely was the morning! Suddenly a light descended,
Radiant beamed the sun above. Brighter far than noonday sun,
Bees were humming, sweet birds singing, And a shining glorious pillar
Music ringing thru the grove, O’er him fell, around him shone,
When within the shady woodland While appeared two heav’nly beings,
Joseph sought the God of love, God the Father and the Son,
When within the shady woodland While appeared two heav’nly beings,
Joseph sought the God of love. God the Father and the Son.
Humbly kneeling, sweet appealing— “Joseph, this is my Beloved;
’Twas the boy’s first uttered prayer— Hear him!” Oh, how sweet the word!
When the pow’rs of sin assailing Joseph’s humble prayer was answered,
Filled his soul with deep despair; And he listened to the Lord.
But undaunted, still he trusted Oh, what rapture filled his bosom,
In his Heav’nly Father’s care, For he saw the living God;
But undaunted, still he trusted Oh, what rapture filled his bosom,
In his Heav’nly Father’s care. For he saw the living God.
Praise to the Man

(Hymns, no. 27)
Praise to the man who communed with Great is his glory and endless his priesthood.
Jehovah! Ever and ever the keys he will hold.
Jesus anointed that Prophet and Seer. Faithful and true, he will enter his kingdom,
Blessed to open the last dispensation, Crowned in the midst of the prophets of old.
Kings shall extol him, and nations revere. CHORUS
CHORUS: Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of heaven;
Hail to the Prophet, ascended to heaven! Earth must atone for the blood of that man.
Traitors and tyrants now fight him in vain. Wake up the world for the conflict of justice.
Mingling with Gods, he can plan for his Millions shall know “Brother Joseph” again.
brethren; CHORUS
Death cannot conquer the hero again.
Praise to his mem’ry, he died as a martyr;
Honored and blest be his ever great name!
Long shall his blood, which was shed by
assassins,
Plead unto heav’n while the earth lauds his
fame.
CHORUS
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Come, Come, Ye Saints
(Hymns, no. 30)
Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear; We’ll find the place which God for us
But with joy wend your way. prepared,
Though hard to you this journey may appear, Far away in the West,
Grace shall be as your day. Where none shall come to hurt or make
’Tis better far for us to strive afraid;
Our useless cares from us to drive; There the Saints will be blessed.
Do this, and joy your hearts will swell— We’ll make the air with music ring,
All is well! All is well! Shout praises to our God and King;
Above the rest these words we’ll tell—
Why should we mourn or think our lot is All is well! All is well!
hard?
’Tis not so; all is right. And should we die before our journey’s
Why should we think to earn a great reward through,
If we now shun the fight? Happy day! All is well!
Gird up your loins; fresh courage take. We then are free from toil and sorrow, too;
Our God will never us forsake; With the just we shall dwell!
And soon we’ll have this tale to tell— But if our lives are spared again
All is well! All is well! To see the Saints their rest obtain,
Oh, how we’ll make this chorus swell—
All is well! All is well!
How Firm a Foundation

(Hymns, no. 85)
How firm a foundation, ye Saints of the Lord, Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
Is laid for your faith in his excellent word! For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
What more can he say than to you he hath I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee
said, to stand,
Who unto the Savior, who unto the Savior, Upheld by my righteous, upheld by my
Who unto the Savior for refuge have fled? righteous,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.
In ev’ry condition—in sickness, in health,
In poverty’s vale or abounding in wealth,
At home or abroad, on the land or the sea—
As thy days may demand, as thy days may
demand,
As thy days may demand, so thy succor
shall be.
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I Need Thee Every Hour
(Hymns, no. 98)
I need thee ev’ry hour, When thou art nigh.
Most gracious Lord. CHORUS
No tender voice like thine
Can peace afford. I need thee ev’ry hour,
In joy or pain.
CHORUS: Come quickly and abide,
I need thee, oh, I need thee; Or life is vain.
Ev’ry hour I need thee! CHORUS
Oh, bless me now, my Savior;
I come to thee! I need thee ev’ry hour,
Most holy One.
I need thee ev’ry hour; Oh, make me thine indeed,
Stay thou nearby. Thou blessed Son!
Temptations lose their pow’r CHORUS
Our Savior’s Love

(Hymns, no. 113)
Our Savior’s love Loud may the sound
Shines like the sun with perfect light, Of hope ring till all doubt departs,
As from above And we are bound
It breaks thru clouds of strife. To him by loving ties.
Lighting our way,
It leads us back into his sight, Our Father, God
Where we may stay Of all creation, hear us pray
To share eternal life. In rev’rence, awed
By thy Son’s sacrifice.
The Spirit, voice Praises we sing.
Of goodness, whispers to our hearts We love thy law; we will obey.
A better choice Our heav’nly King,
Than evil’s anguished cries. In thee our hearts rejoice.
Come, Follow Me
(Hymns, no. 116)
“Come, follow me,” the Savior said. Is it enough alone to know
Then let us in his footsteps tread, That we must follow him below,
For thus alone can we be one While trav’ling thru this vale of tears?
With God’s own loved, begotten Son. No, this extends to holier spheres.
“Come, follow me,” a simple phrase, Not only shall we emulate
Yet truth’s sublime, effulgent rays His course while in this earthly state,
Are in these simple words combined But when we’re freed from present cares,
To urge, inspire the human mind. If with our Lord we would be heirs.
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Where Can I Turn for Peace?
(Hymns, no. 129)
Where can I turn for peace? Where is my Where, in my need to know, where can I run?
solace Where is the quiet hand to calm my anguish?
When other sources cease to make me whole? Who, who can understand? He, only One.
When with a wounded heart, anger, or
malice, He answers privately, reaches my reaching
I draw myself apart, searching my soul? In my Gethsemane, Savior and Friend.
Gentle the peace he finds for my beseeching.
Where, when my aching grows, where, when Constant he is and kind, love without end.
I languish,
More Holiness Give Me

(Hymns, no. 131)
More holiness give me, More tears for his sorrows,
More strivings within, More pain at his grief,
More patience in suff’ring, More meekness in trial,
More sorrow for sin, More praise for relief.
More faith in my Savior,
More sense of his care, More purity give me,
More joy in his service, More strength to o’ercome,
More purpose in prayer. More freedom from earth-stains,
More longing for home.
More gratitude give me, More fit for the kingdom,
More trust in the Lord, More used would I be,
More pride in his glory, More blessed and holy—
More hope in his word, More, Savior, like thee.
I Know That My Redeemer Lives

(Hymns, no. 136)
I know that my Redeemer lives. He lives, my kind, wise heav’nly Friend.
What comfort this sweet sentence gives! He lives and loves me to the end.
He lives, he lives, who once was dead. He lives, and while he lives, I’ll sing.
He lives, my ever-living Head. He lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.
He lives to bless me with his love. He lives and grants me daily breath.
He lives to plead for me above. He lives, and I shall conquer death.
He lives my hungry soul to feed. He lives my mansion to prepare.
He lives to bless in time of need. He lives to bring me safely there.
He lives to grant me rich supply. He lives! All glory to his name!
He lives to guide me with his eye. He lives, my Savior, still the same.
He lives to comfort me when faint. Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives:
He lives to hear my soul’s complaint. “I know that my Redeemer lives!”
He lives to silence all my fears. He lives! All glory to his name!
He lives to wipe away my tears. He lives, my Savior, still the same.
He lives to calm my troubled heart. Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives:
He lives all blessings to impart. “I know that my Redeemer lives!”
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Did You Think to Pray?
(Hymns, no. 140)
Ere you left your room this morning, Did you think to pray?
Did you think to pray? Did you plead for grace, my brother,
In the name of Christ, our Savior, That you might forgive another
Did you sue for loving favor Who had crossed your way?
As a shield today? CHORUS
CHORUS: When sore trials came upon you,
Oh, how praying rests the weary! Did you think to pray?
Prayer will change the night to day. When your soul was full of sorrow,
So, when life gets dark and dreary, Balm of Gilead did you borrow
Don’t forget to pray. At the gates of day?
CHORUS
When your heart was filled with anger,
I Stand All Amazed

(Hymns, no. 193)
I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me, To rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as
Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers mine,
me. That he should extend his great love unto
I tremble to know that for me he was such as I,
crucified, Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.
That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and CHORUS
died.
I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to
CHORUS: pay the debt!
Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me Such mercy, such love and devotion can I
Enough to die for me! forget?
Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me! No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy
seat,
I marvel that he would descend from his Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his
throne divine feet.
CHORUS
Lord, I Would Follow Thee

(Hymns, no. 220)
Savior, may I learn to love thee, I would be my brother’s keeper;
Walk the path that thou hast shown, I would learn the healer’s art.
Pause to help and lift another, To the wounded and the weary
Finding strength beyond my own. I would show a gentle heart.
Savior, may I learn to love thee— I would be my brother’s keeper—
Lord, I would follow thee. Lord, I would follow thee.
Who am I to judge another Savior, may I love my brother
When I walk imperfectly? As I know thou lovest me,
In the quiet heart is hidden Find in thee my strength, my beacon,
Sorrow that the eye can’t see. For thy servant I would be.
Who am I to judge another? Savior, may I love my brother—
Lord, I would follow thee. Lord, I would follow thee.
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Have I Done Any Good?
(Hymns, no. 223)
Have I done any good in the world today? A blessing of duty and love.
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone There are chances for work all around just
feel glad? now,
If not, I have failed indeed. Opportunities right in our way.
Has anyone’s burden been lighter today Do not let them pass by, saying, “Sometime
Because I was willing to share? I’ll try,”
Have the sick and the weary been helped on But go and do something today.
their way? ’Tis noble of man to work and to give;
When they needed my help was I there? Love’s labor has merit alone.
Only he who does something helps others to
CHORUS: live.
Then wake up and do something more To God each good work will be known.
Than dream of your mansion above. CHORUS
Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond
measure,
Do What Is Right
(Hymns, no. 237)
Do what is right; the day-dawn is breaking, Chains of the bondsmen no longer are
Hailing a future of freedom and light. bright;
Angels above us are silent notes taking Lightened by hope, soon they’ll cease to be
Of ev’ry action; then do what is right! galling.
Truth goeth onward; then do what is right!
CHORUS: CHORUS
Do what is right; let the consequence follow.
Battle for freedom in spirit and might; Do what is right; be faithful and fearless.
And with stout hearts look ye forth till Onward, press onward, the goal is in sight.
tomorrow. Eyes that are wet now ere long will be
God will protect you; then do what is right! tearless.
Blessings await you in doing what’s right!
Do what is right; the shackles are falling. CHORUS
As Zion’s Youth in Latter Days

(Hymns, no. 256)
As Zion’s youth in latter days, The evils that would weaken us,
We stand with valiant heart, The sin that would destroy.
With promise shining in our eyes, With faith, we hold the iron rod
Resolved to do our part. And find in this our joy.
Upon a noble past we build;
The future fills our view. Thru test and trial we’ll have our fears,
We face the challenge of our day But we will not despair.
And pledge we will be true. We’re here to serve a righteous cause;
Truth gives us strength to dare.
The truths and values we embrace We’ll love, and learn, and overcome;
Are mocked on ev’ry hand. We’ll sing a joyful song,
Yet as we listen and obey As Zion’s youth in latter days,
We know we can withstand Triumphant, pure, and strong.
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I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go
(Hymns, no. 270)
It may not be on the mountain height Some wand’rer whom I should seek.
Or over the stormy sea, O Savior, if thou wilt be my guide,
It may not be at the battle’s front Tho dark and rugged the way,
My Lord will have need of me. My voice shall echo the message sweet:
But if, by a still, small voice he calls I’ll say what you want me to say.
To paths that I do not know, CHORUS
I’ll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in thine:
I’ll go where you want me to go. There’s surely somewhere a lowly place
In earth’s harvest fields so wide
CHORUS: Where I may labor through life’s short day
I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord, For Jesus, the Crucified.
Over mountain or plain or sea; So trusting my all to thy tender care,
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord; And knowing thou lovest me,
I’ll be what you want me to be. I’ll do thy will with a heart sincere:
I’ll be what you want me to be.
Perhaps today there are loving words CHORUS
Which Jesus would have me speak;
There may be now in the paths of sin
As I Search the Holy Scriptures

(Hymns, no. 277)
As I search the holy scriptures, As I search the holy scriptures,
Loving Father of mankind, May thy mercy be revealed.
May my heart be blessed with wisdom, Soothe my troubled heart and spirit;
And may knowledge fill my mind. May my unseen wounds be healed.
As I search the holy scriptures, As I search the holy scriptures,
Touch my spirit, Lord, I pray. Help me ponder and obey.
May life’s myst’ries be unfolded In thy word is life eternal;
As I study day by day. May thy light show me the way.
Families Can Be Together Forever

(Hymns, no. 300)
I have a fam’ly here on earth. The Lord has shown me how I can.
They are so good to me.
I want to share my life with them through all While I am in my early years,
eternity. I’ll prepare most carefully,
So I can marry in God’s temple for eternity.
CHORUS: CHORUS
Fam’lies can be together forever
Through Heav’nly Father’s plan.
I always want to be with my own family,
And the Lord has shown me how I can.
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I Am a Child of God
(Hymns, no. 301)
I am a child of God, And so my needs are great;
And he has sent me here, Help me to understand his words
Has given me an earthly home Before it grows too late.
With parents kind and dear. CHORUS
CHORUS: I am a child of God.
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, Rich blessings are in store;
Help me find the way. If I but learn to do his will
Teach me all that I must do I’ll live with him once more.
To live with him someday. CHORUS
I am a child of God,
I Know My Father Lives

(Hymns, no. 302)
I know my Father lives and loves me too. He sent me here to earth, by faith to live his
The Spirit whispers this to me and tells me it plan.
is true, The Spirit whispers this to me and tells me
And tells me it is true. that I can,
And tells me that I can.
Teach Me to Walk in the Light

(Hymns, no. 304)
Teach me to walk in the light of his love; Home to his presence, to live in his sight—
Teach me to pray to my Father above; Always, always to walk in the light.
Teach me to know of the things that are
right; Father in Heaven, we thank thee this day
Teach me, teach me to walk in the light. For loving guidance to show us the way.
Grateful, we praise thee with songs of
Come, little child, and together we’ll learn delight!
Of his commandments, that we may return Gladly, gladly we’ll walk in the light.
Love One Another

(Hymns, no. 308)
As I have loved you, Ye are my disciples,
Love one another. If ye have love
This new commandment: One to another.
Love one another.
By this shall men know
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FSY Medley
As Sisters in Zion/We’ll Bring the World His Truth

Young Women
As sisters in Zion, we’ll all work together; We’ll comfort the weary and strengthen the
The blessings of God on our labors we’ll seek. weak.
We’ll build up his kingdom with earnest
endeavor;
Young Men
We have been born, as Nephi of old, We are as the army of Helaman.
To goodly parents who love the Lord. We have been taught in our youth.
We have been taught, and we understand, And we will be the Lord’s missionaries
That we must do as the Lord commands. To bring the world his truth.
Young Women and Young Men Sing Simultaneously:
Young Women Young Men

As sisters in Zion, we’ll all work together; We have been born, as Nephi of old,
The blessings of God on our labors we’ll seek. To goodly parents who love the Lord.
We’ll build up his kingdom with earnest We have been taught, and we understand,
endeavor; That we must do as the Lord commands.
We’ll comfort the weary and strengthen the
weak.
Together in Unison
We are as the army of Helaman. To bring the world his truth.
We have been taught in our youth. To bring the world his truth.
And we will be the Lord’s missionaries
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JOURNAL
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119
120
121
122
123
124
125
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FRIENDS TO REMEMBER
“Real friends share the gospel. . . . No stronger bond

. . . can be given from one friend to another”
(Jeffrey R. Holland, “Real Friendship,” New Era, June 1998, 66).
NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
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NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
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QUESTIONS
What are some questions that you have thought of during the week? Take a mo-
ment to write them here. When you have the opportunity, ask your parents, Young
Men or Young Women leader, or bishop or branch president.
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GAMES FOR USE DURING
LUNCHTIME OR DOWNTIME
ZAP (NAME GAME)
Players stand in a circle with one participant in the middle. The participant in
the middle points to someone in the circle and says “ZAP!” The person they
ZAP ducks, and the players on either side of that person face each other and
say each other’s name as fast as possible. The last one to say the other’s name is
out.
MEDUSA
Players stand in a tight circle with everyone looking at the ground. Everyone
then says together, “Ooga booga, ooga booga, ooga booga, LOOK!” On
“LOOK!” everyone looks up at someone else in the circle (in the eyes). If two
people are looking at each other, they are both out and the circle gets smaller.
After looking up, no one may change who they are looking at. Not looking at
anybody is also against the rules. The last one or two people in the game win.
CHICKEN TACO
Players form a circle and choose one person to start the game. All the partici-
pants maintain a steady beat by alternating clapping their hands together and
then clapping on their thighs. In a clockwise direction, each person in turn and
along with the beat says one word in the following sentence: “Chicken Taco
Chicken Taco Boom.” Players continue to immediately repeat the sentence,
each time adding another “Boom” on the end. If a player fails to add the cor-
rect word or loses the beat, that person is out and the game resets to the origi-
nal sentence. The beat will naturally speed up as the game continues, increasing
the difficulty. The last player standing wins.
PTERODACTYL
Players form a circle and choose someone to start the round. The starter turns
to the player on their left and without showing their teeth, says, “Pterodactyl”
as animatedly as they want. That player will then do the same thing to the
player on their left, and it continues around the circle until someone shows
their teeth. A player may reverse the direction of the “Pterodactyl” by squawk-
ing loudly at the person who told them “Pterodactyl.” If anyone in the circle
shows their teeth at any point during the game, that person is out. The last
remaining player wins. Variations to this game, as follows:
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Variation 1: Say “Zip” and “Bong” instead of “Pterodactyl” and squawking. If
someone says “Zip,” that maintains the game in the current direction around
the circle. If someone says “Bong,” the direction of play reverses.
Variation 2: All players go around the circle and pick a fruit name to go by
during the game. The starter says another player’s fruit name instead of “Ptero-
dactyl.” The player whose fruit is named goes next.
THIS GAME IS SO MUCH FUN
Form a standing circle and hold hands with the people next to you. As all
participants swing their arms forward and back, they chant together, “We are
having so much fun” over and over again. When someone smiles, they are out
and the game continues. The last one to smile wins.
TAP AROUND
Players form a circle lying on their stomachs with their heads inward. All
participants put their elbows and hands on the ground, crossing their right
arms over the left arm of the person to their right. This should create a circle of
hands in the middle. Choose someone to start, who will tap the ground once
with one of their hands. The next hand then taps the ground, and play contin-
ues around the circle. One tap means play moves in the same direction, but two
taps reverses the direction. If someone forgets to tap or they tap when it is not
their turn, they remove a hand from the circle. When a player loses both hands,
that person is out. The last one with a hand in the circle wins.
COPYCAT
Form a standing circle, choose someone to be the guesser, and have them stand
in the middle of the circle with their eyes closed. The rest of the group silently
chooses someone to be the copycat. The copycat begins doing any simple action
( jumping, waving, patting their head, and so on) and everyone in the circle
joins in, repeating the action. Once everyone is following the copycat, the
guesser opens their eyes and tries to discover who the copycat is. The copycat
continuously changes the action, and everyone else immediately follows. The
guesser only has three guesses to discover who the copycat is. Once the guesser
finds the copycat or is out of guesses, start a new game by picking different
people to be the next guesser and copycat.
WATER BOTTLE PASS
Players form a circle with one person holding a full disposable water bottle.
The person with the water bottle tosses it (underhand) to another person in
the circle. The person intended to catch the water bottle must clap their hands
once before catching it. If someone claps without catching the water bottle or
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catches the water bottle without clapping, they are out. The last one to get out
wins. Variation: The person tossing the water bottle says the name of the person
they intend to catch the water bottle.
ELECTRICITY
Players stand in two lines parallel to each other and choose one person to
stand at the end of the lines, officiating the game. When the officiator shouts
“Go,” the lines “pass the electricity” down the line by squeezing the hand of
the person next to them, starting at the end opposite of the officiator. Once the
end-person of each line has their hand squeezed, they “high-five” the officiator
or grab a water bottle from the officiator. The line that “high-fives” the officiator
first wins.
MISSIONARY TAG
Players form a large circle and choose someone to be the chaser and someone
to run. They both stand in the middle of the circle, and everyone else partners
up and links arms, leaving some space in between each set of partners. Who-
ever is getting chased runs to a partnership and links up on one side, forming
a new partnership and bumping the extra person off. The now lone person
becomes the new target of the chaser and must run around or through the
circle to link up with another partnership. If someone is in a partnership, they
are safe from being tagged. Once someone is tagged by the chaser, they become
the new chaser and must try to tag the old chaser, who runs to link up with a
partnership.
SIGNS
Players form a circle and choose someone to stand in the middle as the guesser.
Each person in the circle chooses a simple sign (such as an ear tug, peace sign,
wink, arms above the head, and so on). The guesser closes their eyes, and some-
one in the circle is designated to be the first Sender. The first Sender does their
own sign, then passes the sign to another person by doing their sign. The recip-
ient does their own sign to receive it and continues to send it to someone else in
the circle. Once the sign has been passed a couple of times, the guesser opens
their eyes and tries to find and tag whoever has the sign before they send it off
and it is received. However, if the sign is sent but not received, the Sender still
has the sign. Once the guesser tags the person with the sign, they switch places
and another round begins. This game can also be played by saying names along
with doing their signs.
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For the
Strength
A GUIDE FOR MAKING CHOICES
FOR THE STRENGTH OF YOUTH:
of Youth
FOR THE
Strength
OF
Youth
A Guide for Making Choices
134
Published by
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah
© 2022 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc.

All rights reserved.
Version: 5/21
PD60013160 000
Printed in the United States of America
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Contents
Message from the First Presidency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Make inspired choices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Jesus Christ will help you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Love God, love your neighbor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Walk in God’s light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Your body is sacred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Truth will make you free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Find joy in Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
What about . . . ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
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Message from the
First Presidency
Our dear young brothers and sisters,
We love you and we have confidence in you. You are truly among
Heavenly Father’s choice spirits, sent to earth at this time to do
important things.
There may be times when you don’t feel strong or capable. That’s
normal. Especially in those moments, turn to the Savior. He is the
“strength of youth.”
This guide will help you build a solid foundation for making
choices to stay on the covenant path. It will help you prepare to
make sacred covenants in the temple, prepare to serve a mission,
and find joy in following Jesus Christ throughout your life. We
hope you feel that you belong in the Savior’s Church and have
power from Him to fulfill His purposes for you.
We know God lives. It is our prayer that you will stay firmly on the
covenant path that leads back to your Father in Heaven. As you
do, you will be an influence for good, sharing the gospel joyfully
and preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Savior.
The First Presidency
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Make inspired choices
In For the Strength of Youth, you will find the teachings of
Jesus Christ and His prophets. With these truths as your guide,
you can make inspired choices that will bless you now and
throughout eternity.
Jesus Christ is the way to eternal joy. As you use your freedom
to choose to follow Jesus Christ, you are on the path that leads to
eternal happiness. Make Jesus Christ your standard, your rock-
solid foundation. Build your life on His teachings, and measure
your choices by them. The covenants you make at baptism,
during the sacrament, and in the temple are the building blocks
of your firm foundation in Christ. You’ll still face struggles and
temptations, but Heavenly Father and the Savior will help you
through them all.
You are a beloved spirit child of God. His great plan of happiness
makes it possible for you to grow spiritually and develop your
divine potential. This is why He sent Jesus Christ to be your Savior.
Your Father in Heaven trusts you. He has given you great
blessings, including the fulness of the gospel and sacred
ordinances and covenants that bind you to Him and bring
His power into your life. With those blessings comes added
responsibility. He knows you can make a difference in the world,
and that requires, in many cases, being different from the world.
Seek your Heavenly Father’s guidance as you make choices. He
will bless you with inspiration through the Holy Ghost.
The purpose of For the Strength of Youth is not to give you a “yes”
or “no” about every possible choice you might face. Instead, the
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Lord is inviting you to live in a higher and holier way—His way.
This guide will teach you about His way. It explains truths He has
revealed. Make these truths your guide for making choices—
big choices, like making covenants in the temple and serving a
mission, as well as daily choices, like how to treat people or how
to spend your time.
While others can help you, your spiritual growth is personal. It’s
between you and the Lord. He knows your heart, and only He
can be the ultimate Judge. Do your best to improve each day,
keep God’s commandments and honor your covenants, and help
others come closer to the Savior.
See Mosiah 4:29–30 (the ways to sin are numberless, so we must
watch ourselves); Helaman 5:12 (build your foundation on Christ);
Doctrine and Covenants 45:57 (take the Holy Spirit for your guide);
82:15 (bind yourself to the Lord through covenants).
How this guide is organized

Each topic has three parts:
1. Eternal truths, or doctrine of
the restored gospel of Jesus Christ
2. Invitations to act on those truths
3. Promised blessings that the Lord
offers those who live by His teachings
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Jesus Christ
will help you
Psalm 147:3
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Jesus Christ is your strength. He has done
everything necessary for you to have joy in
this life and forever. By choosing Him and His
gospel, you are choosing eternal joy.
Even when you try to do your best to make good
choices, sometimes you will make mistakes. You’ll do
things you wish you hadn’t. Everyone does. When that happens,
it is easy to feel discouraged or wonder if you will ever be good
enough. But there is good news—wonderful, hopeful news!
Because God loves you, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who took
upon Himself your sins so you can repent and keep progressing.
ETERNAL TRUTHS
Jesus Christ can strengthen you. He can help you change your
desires, your thoughts, and your actions. When you are worried,
afraid, or struggling in any way, He will comfort you. He will help
you in all aspects of your life.
Repentance isn’t punishment for sin; it is the way the Savior
frees us from sin. To repent means to change—to turn away from
sin and toward God. It means to improve and receive forgiveness.
This kind of change is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process.
INVITATIONS
Repent. Turn to the Lord with the desire to improve. When you’ve
done something wrong, honestly admit it before God and, as
needed, to your bishop and anyone you may have harmed. Do
your best to make things right.
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Rejoice in the gift to do better and be better. Even when it is
not easy and takes longer than you’d like, never stop trying. Keep
working and trusting in the Lord. The Savior will help you every
step of the way.
PROMISED BLESSINGS
Jesus Christ will forgive and heal you as you repent. He will
replace your guilt with peace and joy. He will remember your sins
no more. In His strength, your desire to keep His commandments
will increase.
He will change your heart and your life. Little by little, you will
grow and become more like Him. Your covenant connection with
Him will bring you greater access to His power.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

How do I know if God has forgiven me? God
promises He will forgive those who repent. When
you feel comfort from the Spirit, you can know that
the Savior’s atoning power is working in your life.
When do I need the help of the bishop to repent? Your bishop

holds priesthood keys and spiritual gifts to help you repent. You
can seek his help and counsel at any time. If you have made
serious mistakes, such as breaking the law of chastity, meet
with your bishop. He won’t condemn you. He is a representative
of Jesus Christ and will help you know how to fully repent and
receive the Savior’s healing and strengthening power.
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I’m trying to repent, but I keep making the
same mistakes. What should I do now? It
takes time to develop good habits and break
bad ones, so don’t give up. Turn toward
Christ. His grace is sufficient. Try again. You
are never alone in your efforts to progress.
Jesus Christ is always with you.
See Enos 1:6 (guilt can be swept away); Mosiah 4:3 (through the
Holy Ghost, God lets you know you are forgiven); 26:30 (the Savior
forgives as often as we repent); Ether 12:27 (the Savior’s grace
can make weak things strong); Moroni 6:8 (those who repent are
forgiven); 10:32 (be perfected in Christ); Doctrine and Covenants
1:32 (the Lord forgives those who repent); 58:42–43 (repentance
includes confessing and forsaking sin).
TEMPLE RECOMMEND QUESTIONS

Do you have faith in and a testimony of God,
the Eternal Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the
Holy Ghost?
Do you have a testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and
of His role as your Savior and Redeemer?
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Love God, love
your neighbor
Matthew 22:37–40
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To help you make good
choices, God gives
commandments. He does
this because He loves you.
And the best reason to obey
God’s commandments is because
you love Him. Love is at the heart of
God’s commandments.
ETERNAL TRUTHS
God loves you. He is your Father. His perfect love can inspire
you to love Him. When your love for Heavenly Father is the most
important influence in your life, many decisions become easier.
The two greatest of all commandments, Jesus taught, are to love
God and love your neighbor. And who is your neighbor? Everyone!
Everything else taught in the scriptures and by the prophets is
connected to these two commandments.
All people are your brothers and sisters—including, of course,
people who are different from you or disagree with you. Heavenly
Father wants His children to love each other. When you serve His
children, you are serving Him.
INVITATIONS
Show love for God by keeping His commandments.

For example, by keeping the Sabbath day holy, including by
faithfully preparing for and partaking of the sacrament, you show
God that you are willing to dedicate one day a week to Him. As
you fast and pay tithes and offerings, you show God that His work
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is more important to you than material things. When you use the
names of God and Christ with reverence, never in a vain or casual
way, you show you are grateful for all They have done for you.
Treat everyone as a child of God.
As a disciple of Jesus Christ, you can lead
out in treating people of all races, religions,
and any other groups with love, respect,
and inclusion—especially those who are
sometimes victims of hurtful words and
actions. Reach out to those who feel lonely,
isolated, or helpless. Help them feel Heavenly
Father’s love through you.
Make sure your language reflects love of God and others—
whether you’re communicating in person or virtually. Say things
that uplift—nothing that might be divisive, hurtful, or offensive,
even as a joke. Your words can be powerful. Let them be powerful
for good.
Loving all of God’s children starts at home. Do your part to make
your home a place where everyone can feel the Savior’s love.
PROMISED BLESSINGS
Your relationship with God will deepen as you express your

love by obeying His commandments and keeping your covenants
with Him.
Your relationship with others will deepen as you express your
love through Christlike service. You will find joy in making the
world a more loving place.
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How can I feel God’s love? Heavenly Father’s
love is always available. Talk to Him often through
prayer. Share your feelings with Him, and listen
for impressions from Him. Read His words in the
scriptures. Think about all that He has done for you. Spend time
in places and activities where His Spirit is present.
Does the Lord expect me to love everyone, even those who

treat me badly? The Lord expects you to love your enemies and
pray for those who mistreat you. However, that does not mean
you should stay in a situation that causes you emotional, physical,
or spiritual harm. Set healthy boundaries to keep yourself safe. If
you are being bullied or abused—or if you know this is happening
to someone else—talk to a trustworthy adult.
When and how should I get to know members of the

opposite sex? The best way to get to know others is through
genuine friendship. While you are young, build good friendships
with many people. In some cultures, youth get to know members
of the opposite sex through wholesome group activities. For your
emotional and spiritual development and safety, one-on-one
activities should be postponed until you are mature—age 16 is
a good guideline. Counsel with your parents and leaders. Save
exclusive relationships for when you are older. Spend time with
those who help you keep your commitments to Jesus Christ.
What can I do if my home is not a place of love? Your Savior

knows your situation, and He loves you. Be patient, continue
to keep God’s commandments, and be a good example to your
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family. Build relationships within your ward family. Prepare now to
build your own family founded on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
See Isaiah 58:3–11 (purposes of fasting); 58:13–14 (blessings of

honoring the Sabbath); Malachi 3:8–10 (blessings of paying tithing);
Luke 6:27–28 (love your enemies); 10:25–37 (who is my neighbor?);
John 3:16–17 (God loved us, so He sent His Son); 14:15 (we keep the
commandments because we love God); 1 John 4:19 (we love God
because He loves us); Mosiah 2:17 (when we serve others, we are
serving God).

Do you follow the teachings of the Church of Jesus
Christ in your private and public behavior with
members of your family and others?
Do you strive to keep the Sabbath day holy, both at home and at
church; attend your meetings; prepare for and worthily partake
of the sacrament; and live your life in harmony with the laws and
commandments of the gospel?
Are you a full-tithe payer?
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150
Walk in
God’s light
Galatians 5:25
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You make better choices when you can see
things clearly. That’s why light is so important;
light makes it easier to see the right path.
Heavenly Father has given you access to
heavenly light—the gift of the Holy Ghost—to
help you see clearly what is good and bad, right and wrong.
ETERNAL TRUTHS
At baptism you enter a joyful covenant

relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus
Christ. In the temple, you will make additional
covenants that can strengthen that relationship.
Each week during the sacrament, you renew your
covenants. You express your willingness to keep the
commandments, and the Lord blesses you with the
opportunity to have the Holy Spirit as your constant companion.
It is one of His greatest gifts to you.
Making good choices improves your ability to feel the Spirit.
There are many good and wholesome things in this world. Just as
your body is affected by what you eat and drink, your mind and
spirit are profoundly affected by what you read, watch, and listen to.
INVITATIONS
Make time for the Lord every day. Learn of Him. Always
remember Him. Pray to your Heavenly Father. Study the holy
scriptures and the words of living prophets. Then strive to live
by what you learn.
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Seek that which uplifts, inspires, and invites the Spirit.
As you make choices about what to watch, read, listen to, or
participate in, think about how it makes you feel. Does it invite
good thoughts? Stay away from anything that mocks sacred things
or that is immoral. Don’t participate in anything that dulls your
judgment or sensitivity to the Spirit, such as violence, alcohol, and
harmful drugs. Have the courage to turn off a video or game, walk
out of a movie or a dance, change your music, or turn away from
anything that is not consistent with the Spirit.
Use social media to uplift. Social media can be a
powerful communication tool. If you use it, focus
on light, faith, and truth. Don’t compare your life
to what other people seem to be experiencing.
Remember that your worth comes from being a
child of heavenly parents, not from social media.
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Seek wholesome experiences and real and lasting relationships.
Be careful that your use of technology and media does not replace
spending in-person time with family and friends. Social media and
other technology can take much of your time without giving a lot
of value in return. Take a break from the virtual world and connect
with people in real life.
PROMISED BLESSINGS
You can have the Spirit with you always. The Holy Ghost will
bear witness to you of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. He will
comfort, guide, warn, and sanctify you. He will help you recognize
truth and see the good in the world.

How can I know if I’m feeling the Holy Ghost?
Learning to be aware of the Spirit takes time,
practice, and patience. He speaks to different people
in different ways. Don’t overlook simple
things—the peaceful feeling you get hearing
someone’s testimony or the unsettled feeling
you get after making a wrong choice. Search
the scriptures for different ways the Spirit
communicates, pray about it, and keep looking
for opportunities to feel the Spirit.
What is pornography? Why should I avoid it? Pornography is a

representation, in pictures or words, that is designed to arouse
sexual feelings. Pornography comes in many forms, including
videos, pictures, books, and music. It can also be messages or
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images sent between friends. Pornography treats things that are
sacred—our physical bodies and sexual feelings—with disrespect.
You may come across pornography without meaning to. Whether
you come across pornography intentionally or not, turn away
immediately. You may also want to talk with a parent or other
trusted adult. Intentionally viewing pornography is sinful and
harms your ability to feel the Spirit. It weakens your self-control
and distorts the way you see yourself and others. Jesus Christ
has the power to help you resist pornography and repent. Turn
toward Him; turn away from darkness. Your bishop can help you
receive strength and forgiveness through the Savior.
See Amos 5:14 (seek good); Galatians 5:22–23 (the fruits

of the Spirit); Moroni 7:18–19 (the light of Christ); Doctrine
and Covenants 6:23 (the Lord speaks peace); 20:77, 79 (the
sacrament prayers).

The Lord has said that all things are to be
“done in cleanliness” before Him (Doctrine
and Covenants 42:41). Do you strive for moral
cleanliness in your thoughts and behavior?
Do you obey the law of chastity?
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What to do in the moment
When you find yourself tempted to
use media or technology in unhealthy
ways—whether it’s driving away the
Spirit or even just wasting your time—
try the following:
1. Call it what it is. Acknowledge what you
are tempted to do . You might even say it aloud—for example,
“This image is pornography,” “This doesn’t feel right,” or “This
could hurt someone’s feelings.”
2. Replace what you are doing with a better choice.
Get away; move to another room or go outside . Focus on
something good .
3. Connect with someone or something you love and respect—
maybe a family member, a supportive friend, or your favorite
scripture. Most of all, connect with your Heavenly Father, and
pray for strength .
For more help, see “Media Safety” in the Gospel Library.
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Your body
is sacred
1 Corinthians 6:18–20
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Your body is an amazing gift from your
Heavenly Father. He gave it to you to help
you become more like Him. Having a body
gives you increased power to exercise your
freedom to choose. The restored gospel of
Jesus Christ can help you see your body from
God’s perspective. And that makes a big difference in your choices
about what to do with your body and how to care for it.
ETERNAL TRUTHS
Your body is in the image of God—the most glorious, majestic

Being in the universe. The scriptures compare our bodies to a
holy temple, a place where the Spirit can dwell. Of course, your
body is not perfect now. But the experiences you’re having with
your body can help you prepare to receive one day a perfect,
resurrected, glorified body.
Your soul is made up of your body and your spirit. For this reason,
physical health and spiritual health are closely connected. The
Savior revealed the Word of Wisdom to teach principles of caring for
your body—and to promise physical and spiritual blessings.
Sexual feelings are an important part of God’s plan to create
happy marriages and eternal families. These feelings are not
sinful—they are sacred. Because sexual feelings are so sacred and
so powerful, God has given you His law of chastity to prepare you
to use these feelings as He intends. The law of chastity states that
God approves of sexual activity only between a man and a woman
who are married. Many in the world ignore or even mock God’s
law, but the Lord invites us to be His disciples and live a standard
higher than the world’s.
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INVITATIONS
Treat your body—and others’ bodies—

with respect. As you make decisions
about your clothing, hairstyle, and
appearance, ask yourself, “Am I
honoring my body as a sacred gift from
God?” Heavenly Father wants us to see
each other for who we really are: not just
physical bodies but His beloved children
with a divine destiny. Avoid styles that emphasize
or draw inappropriate attention to your physical body instead of
who you are as a child of God with an eternal future. Let moral
cleanliness and love for God guide your choices. Seek counsel
from your parents.
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Do things that will strengthen
your body—nothing that will hurt
or damage it. Enjoy with gratitude
the many good things God has
provided. But remember that
alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea,
and other harmful drugs and
substances are not for your
body or your spirit. Even helpful
substances, like prescription drugs, can
be destructive if not used correctly.
Keep sex and sexual feelings sacred. They should not be the
subject of jokes or entertainment. Outside of marriage between
a man and a woman, it is wrong to touch the private, sacred
parts of another person’s body even if clothed. In your choices
about what you do, look at, read, listen to, think about, post, or
text, avoid anything that purposely arouses lustful emotions in
others or yourself. This includes pornography in any form. If you
find that situations or activities make temptations stronger, avoid
them. You know what those situations and activities are. And if
you aren’t sure, the Spirit, your parents, and your leaders can
help you know. Show your Father in Heaven that you honor and
respect the sacred power to create life.
PROMISED BLESSINGS
Your respect for yourself and others will increase as you honor
your body through your behavior, appearance, and dress.
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The Lord has promised great treasures of knowledge to those
who keep the Word of Wisdom. A healthy body, free from addiction,
also increases your ability to receive personal revelation, think
clearly, and serve the Lord.
Living the law of chastity brings God’s approval and personal
spiritual power. When you are married, this law will bring greater
love, trust, and unity to your marriage. Obeying this law will make it
possible for you to progress eternally and become more like your
Heavenly Father. Your confidence will grow as you live as a disciple
of Jesus Christ.
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What is the Lord’s standard on dress, grooming,
tattoos, and piercings? The Lord’s standard is for
you to honor the sacredness of your body, even
when that means being different from the world. Let
this truth and the Spirit be your guide as you make decisions—
especially decisions that have lasting effects on your body. Be wise
and faithful, and seek counsel from your parents and leaders.
How can I overcome temptations and bad habits? Heavenly

Father and Jesus Christ have the power to help you. Fill your
life with things that invite that power into your life, such as
prayers, scripture study, and service to others. Turn to Jesus
Christ and His gospel and you will find that
weaknesses can become strengths.
Seek help from parents, leaders,
and professional counselors as
needed. For those who suffer from
addiction, the Church offers an
addiction recovery program. These
are blessings the Savior’s Church
provides to help you regain control
of your life. It will take time, so be
patient, and never give up.
I am attracted to people of my same sex. How do these

standards apply to me? Feeling same-sex attraction is not a sin.
If you have these feelings and do not pursue or act on them,
you are living Heavenly Father’s sacred law of chastity. You are
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a beloved child of God and a disciple of Jesus Christ. Remember
that the Savior understands everything you experience. Through
your covenant connection with Him, you will find strength to obey
God’s commandments and receive the blessings He promises.
Trust Him and His gospel.
I was abused, and I feel ashamed. Am I guilty of sin?

Being a victim of any abuse or assault does not make you guilty
of sin. Please do not feel guilt or shame. The Savior loves you.
He wants to help you, heal you, and give you peace. Professional
counselors, your family members, and your leaders can also help.
See Genesis 1:27 (we are created in God’s image); John 14:18 (the
Savior promises comfort); Philippians 4:7 (the peace of God passes
understanding); Doctrine and Covenants 88:15 (the spirit and
the body are the soul); 89 (the Word of Wisdom); 121:45 (virtuous
thoughts lead to increased confidence).

The Lord has said that all things are to be
“done in cleanliness” before Him (Doctrine
and Covenants 42:41). Do you strive for moral
cleanliness in your thoughts and behavior?
Do you obey the law of chastity?
Do you understand and obey the Word of Wisdom?
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Caring for your body includes caring for your
mental and emotional health
It’s normal to feel sad or anxious from time to
time . When you are unable to cope with those
feelings and recover from them, that may be
a sign of mental or emotional challenges that
require help from a parent, leader, doctor, or
professional counselor .
Such help can be a blessing
from your loving Father in Heaven. If
you ever have thoughts of harming
yourself or ending your own life,
seek help right away . Remember,
you are loved, valued, and
needed . Whatever your emotional
or mental struggles may be, seek
peace in Jesus Christ and His gospel.
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Truth will make
you free
John 8:32
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Your Heavenly Father is a God of truth. He is
all-knowing. All truth comes from Him and
leads to Him. You show that you value truth
as you seek learning, live with integrity, and
bravely stand for what you know is right—
even if you have to stand alone.
ETERNAL TRUTHS
Heavenly Father wants His daughters and sons to always be

learning. You have both temporal and spiritual reasons to seek
and love learning. Education is not just about earning money. It is
part of your eternal goal to become more like Heavenly Father.
Living with integrity means that you love truth with all your
heart—more than you love personal comfort, popularity, or
convenience. It means doing what is right simply because it is right.
You have something precious to share. The gospel of Jesus Christ
holds the answers to life’s questions. It is the way to peace and
happiness. You may not know everything, but you know enough to
help others understand and value true, eternal principles.
INVITATIONS
Always be learning. Look for opportunities to expand your mind

and your skills. These opportunities can include formal education
at school or vocational training, as well as informal learning
from sources you trust. Involve the Lord in your efforts, and He
will guide you. As you learn about the world around you, learn
also about the Savior, who created the world. Study His life and
teachings. Make seminary, institute, and personal gospel study
part of your lifelong learning.
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Love the truth so much that you would never want to steal, lie,
cheat, or deceive in any way—at school, at work, online, everywhere.
Be the same faithful follower of Jesus Christ in public and in private.
Be a light for others. Let your words and your actions reflect
your faith in Jesus Christ. Prepare now for future opportunities to
share His glorious gospel, as a missionary and throughout your
life. And be ready to tell anyone who asks you about the hope and
happiness you feel.
PROMISED BLESSINGS
Education increases your ability to serve the Lord. It empowers

you to bless others, especially your family. The more you learn,
the more you can help build God’s kingdom and influence the
world for good.
Honesty brings peace and self-respect. When your words and
actions align with truth, you show that you can be trusted—by
other people and by the Lord.
When you stand up for the teachings of Jesus Christ, He stands
with you. Others may not agree with you, but your courage
and sincerity will be noticed. Whether or not others follow your
example, your testimony, confidence, and faith in Christ will grow.

Is it wrong to have questions about the Church?
How can I find answers? Having questions is not
a sign of weakness or lack of faith. In fact, asking
questions can help build faith. The Restoration of the
gospel started when 14-year-old Joseph Smith asked questions
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with faith. Seek answers in the scriptures,
in the words of God’s prophets, from your
leaders and faithful parents, and from
God Himself. If answers don’t come right
away, trust that you will learn line upon line.
Keep living by what you already know, and
keep seeking for truth.
How can I stand up for what is right without offending those

who have different beliefs? Start by making sure your words
and actions are inspired by love for God and His children. Sharing
the gospel should not be done in a spirit of contention but rather
with clarity, meekness, and kindness. You can be loving toward
others even if you don’t agree with their views.
See Matthew 5:14–16 (let your light shine); John 14:6 (Jesus is the
truth); 1 Peter 3:15 (be ready always to share your hope in Christ);
Doctrine and Covenants 88:77–80 (things the Lord wants us to
learn); 93:36 (the glory of God is intelligence); 124:15 (integrity means
loving what is right); 130:18 (our intelligence will rise with us when we
are resurrected).
TEMPLE RECOMMEND QUESTION

Do you strive to be honest in all that you do?
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Find joy in Christ
Choices matter. Choices based on gospel teachings are steps that
lead you closer to your Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Jesus
said, “These things have I spoken unto you, … that your joy might
be full” (John 15:11). With each step toward Him, you will feel
closer to the Spirit and your covenant relationship with God will
become stronger.
But that doesn’t mean the path will be problem-free. And since no
one walks a perfectly straight line, constantly check your direction
and honor God’s commandments. Keep your covenants with God
and prepare to make more. Covenants connect you to Heavenly
Father and the Savior. They increase God’s power in your life and
prepare you to receive eternal life.
Of all possible choices, the one that matters most is the choice to
follow Jesus Christ. He is the strength of youth. His gospel is the
joyful way back to your Heavenly Father.
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Appendix
One way to assess your progress on the covenant path is to
ponder the questions below. They are the questions you are
asked when you are interviewed to receive a temple recommend,
but don’t wait for an interview. Do your own spiritual checkup. The
Young Women Theme, the Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Theme,
and the Ten Commandments can also be helpful tools in your
self-evaluation.
TEMPLE RECOMMEND QUESTIONS FOR YOUTH

Do you have faith in and a testimony of God,
the Eternal Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the
Holy Ghost?
Do you have a testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and
of His role as your Savior and Redeemer?
Do you have a testimony of the Restoration of the gospel of
Jesus Christ?
Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator and as the
only person on the earth authorized to exercise all priesthood
keys? Do you sustain the members of the First Presidency and
the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and
revelators? Do you sustain the other General Authorities and
local leaders of the Church?
The Lord has said that all things are to be “done in cleanliness”
before Him (Doctrine and Covenants 42:41). Do you strive for
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moral cleanliness in your thoughts and behavior? Do you obey
the law of chastity?
Do you follow the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ in
your private and public behavior with members of your family
and others?
Do you support or promote any teachings, practices, or
doctrine contrary to those of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints?
Do you strive to be honest in all that you do?
Are you a full-tithe payer?
Do you understand and obey the Word of Wisdom?
Are there serious sins in your life that need to be resolved with
priesthood authorities as part of your repentance?
Do you consider yourself worthy to enter the Lord’s house and
participate in temple ordinances?
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Young Women Theme
I am a beloved daughter of heavenly parents, with a divine nature
and eternal destiny.
As a disciple of Jesus Christ, I strive to become like Him. I seek
and act upon personal revelation and minister to others in His
holy name.
I will stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things and in
all places.
As I strive to qualify for exaltation, I cherish the gift of repentance
and seek to improve each day. With faith, I will strengthen my
home and family, make and keep sacred covenants, and receive
the ordinances and blessings of the holy temple.
Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Theme

I am a beloved son of God, and He has a work for me to do.
With all my heart, might, mind, and strength, I will love God, keep
my covenants, and use His priesthood to serve others, beginning
in my own home.
As I strive to serve, exercise faith, repent, and improve each day,
I will qualify to receive temple blessings and the enduring joy of
the gospel.
I will prepare to become a diligent missionary, loyal husband, and
loving father by being a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
I will help prepare the world for the Savior’s return by inviting all
to come unto Christ and receive the blessings of His Atonement.
38
173
The Ten Commandments
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.
Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
Honour thy father and thy mother.
Thou shalt not kill.
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Thou shalt not steal.
Thou shalt not bear false witness.
Thou shalt not covet.
See Exodus 20:3–17.
39
174
What about . . . ?
Below are some topics you might have questions about. For the
Strength of Youth doesn’t mention all of them by name, but it does
teach eternal truths that can help you make decisions about these
topics. You’ll find these truths on the pages listed below.
A E
addiction, 26, 27 education, 31–32
alcohol, 23, 25, 26 emotional health, 29
anxiety, 29
F
Atonement of Jesus Christ, faith in Jesus Christ, 32–33
6–9, 27
family, 12, 13–14
B friends, 12, 13
body piercing, 27
G
bullying, 12, 13
gossip, 12
C grace, 6–9, 27
chastity, 23, 25, 26, 27–28 grooming, 24, 25, 27
cheating, 31, 32
H
coffee, 23, 25, 26
Holy Ghost, 4, 8, 13, 17–19
commandments, 11–12
homosexuality, 27–28
D honesty, 31, 32
dance, 18
I
dating, 13
integrity, 31, 32
depression, 29
internet, 18–19
dress, 24, 25, 27
drugs, 23, 25, 26
40
175
J R
Jesus Christ, 4, 6–9, 11, 12, 17, racism, 12
27, 29, 32, 34 repentance, 6–9
joy, 4, 8, 12, 34
S
L Sabbath day, 11
language, 12 sacrament, 17
LGBTQ+, 27–28 same-sex attraction, 27–28
love, 10–14 sex, 23, 25, 26, 27–28
lying, 31, 32 sexual abuse, 28
M sexual assault, 28
media, 17–21 sexual purity, 23, 25, 26, 27–28
mental health, 29 social media, 17–21
missionary work, 32 stealing, 31, 32
modesty, 24, 25, 27 swearing, 12
movies, 17–21
T
music, 17–21 tattoos, 27
P tea, 23, 25, 26
piercings, 27 tithing, 11–12
pornography, 19–20, 25
V
prejudice, 12 videos, 17–21
prescription drugs, 25
W
Q Word of Wisdom, 23, 25, 26
questions, 32–33
41
176
177
His invitation was extended to all.
Share it with one.
BRING A FRIEND
TO SEMINARY.
© 2023 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Version: 6/23. PD80016871 000.
Printed in the United States of America

2024 Fsy Participant Handbook

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2024 For the Strength

“Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

1:30–2:20 p.m. (Wear FSY T-shirt) Meet Your Counselor

2:30–3:05 p.m. Meet Your Company

3:05–3:15 p.m. Company Name

3:30–4:30 p.m. Orientation

4:45–5:45 p.m. Dinner

5:45 p.m. Meet with Company | Head Count

5:45–6:00 p.m. Travel to Home Evening

6:00–6:45 p.m. Home Evening Lesson

6:45–7:00 p.m. Travel to Company Spot

7:00–8:00 p.m. Home Evening Games

8:00–8:45 p.m. Home Evening Goal Setting

9:00–9:45 p.m. Head Count | Quiet Time—Get Ready for Bed

Participant Devotional Prep

9:45–10:15 p.m. Reflect and Review | Journaling | Prayer

10:30 p.m. Lights Out

FSY WEAPONS AND OTHER BANNED ITEMS POLICY

QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT

Why am I using What is my plan for using Am I avoiding content

□ Wearing wristband (if applicable) □ Cell phone courtesy (if

I COMMIT TO FOLLOWING THE RULES AND STANDARDS

People in my group: Cell phone numbers:

Read Helaman 5:6–7

Does your name have any links to past generations?

Our company scripture makes me think about:

When others hear our name, we want them to think of:

Our company name is:

“Therefore, strengthen your brethren in all your

“[Commitment] is the act of obligating oneself

Be sure to record your thoughts and feelings from the discussion.

7:30–8:30 a.m. Breakfast

8:30–9:30 a.m. Gospel Study

9:45–10:30 a.m. Session-Directing Couple Morning Devotional

10:30–10:45 a.m. Travel to Classes

10:45–11:30 a.m. Classes

11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Classes

12:30–1:30 p.m. Lunch | Musical Program Rehearsal

1:30 p.m. Meet with Company | Head Count

1:30–1:45 p.m. Travel to Classes

1:45–2:30 p.m. Classes

2:45–3:30 p.m. Classes

3:30–5:00 p.m. Musical Program Rehearsal/Variety Show Tryouts

3:30–4:30 p.m. On-Campus Free Time

4:30–6:00 p.m. Dinner

6:00 p.m. Meet with Company | Head Count

6:00–6:30 p.m. Banner and Cheer Prep

6:30–6:45 p.m. Review FSY Dance Guidelines

6:45–8:45 p.m. Dance

9:00–9:45 p.m. Head Count | Quiet Time—Get Ready for Bed

Participant Devotional Prep

9:45–10:15 p.m. Reflect and Review | Journaling | Prayer

10:30 p.m. Lights Out

Read a scripture passage, conference talk, or Church magazine article of your

What else can you do to “feast” on these verses?

Rules for the Cheer

“If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing,

7:30–8:30 a.m. Breakfast

8:30–9:30 a.m. Gospel Study

“My dear extraordinary youth, you were sent to