Unprecedented Family History Era
The current era presents a unique and unprecedented time for temple and family history work. Several factors contribute to this:
- Increased access to family history resources: The internet and mobile devices have made it easier for individuals to access and engage with family history research, temple ordinances, and genealogical records.
- Growing interest in family history: Many people are seeking to connect with their ancestors and heritage, driven by a desire to understand their family’s story and feel a sense of belonging.
- Expanded temple opportunities: The Church has increased the number of temples and expanded their hours of operation, providing more opportunities for members to participate in temple work.
- Youth involvement: There is a growing emphasis on involving youth in temple and family history work, with resources and initiatives designed to engage 11-year-olds and older children in this sacred work.
Key Takeaways
- Engage youth: Encourage 11-year-olds and older children to participate in temple and family history work, using resources like FamilySearch and the Family Tree app.
- Leverage technology: Utilize online tools and mobile apps to facilitate family history research and temple ordinances, making it easier for individuals to contribute to this sacred work.
- Focus on family unity: Emphasize the importance of family unity and the blessings that come from working together to complete temple ordinances and preserve family history.
- Emphasize the Spirit: Recognize that temple and family history work is a spiritual endeavor, and encourage individuals to seek guidance and inspiration from the Holy Ghost as they participate in these activities.
Examples of Unprecedented Opportunities
- 11-year-olds in temple work: The Church has provided resources and initiatives to help 11-year-olds prepare for and participate in temple ordinances, such as the Family Tree app’s Ordinances Ready feature.
- Youth consultants: Many wards and stakes have designated youth consultants to assist with family history and temple work, providing opportunities for young members to develop leadership skills and serve their families.
- Online indexing: The Church’s indexing program has made it possible for individuals to contribute to family history research from anywhere, at any time, using their computers or mobile devices.
Overall, this unprecedented time for temple and family history work presents a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with their ancestors, serve their families, and draw closer to God.
