An Invitation with a Promise

As we prepare for trek, one of our purposes is to Remember.  Each of us is invited to think of someone we will remember as we trek. That person may be someone who crossed the plains, or who is alive today.  Family History and Temple Work help us to look to the past, live in the present and see a glimpse of the future. Those living today have been uniquely prepared to hasten Heavenly Father's work for those who have gone before. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve noted:

"Your fingers have been trained to text and tweet to accelerate and advance the work of the Lord—not just to communicate quickly with your friends. The skills and aptitude evident among many young people today are a preparation to contribute to the work of salvation."

He then shared this invitation and promise:

“I invite the young people of the Church to learn about and experience the Spirit of Elijah. I encourage you to study, to search out your ancestors, and to prepare yourselves to perform proxy baptisms in the house of the Lord for your kindred dead. And I urge you to help other people identify their family histories.


“As you respond in faith to this invitation, your hearts shall turn to the fathers. The promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will be implanted in your hearts. Your patriarchal blessing, with its declaration of lineage, will link you to these fathers and be more meaningful to you. Your love and     gratitude for your ancestors will increase. Your testimony of and conversion to the Savior will become deep and abiding. And I promise you will be protected against the intensifying influence of the adversary. As you participate in and love this holy work, you will be safeguarded in your youth and throughout your lives.”

How will you, and who will you Remember as you prepare for and go on trek?

Learn more:

• Watch a video of Elder Bednar's invitation
• Visit the Youth and Family History website
• Watch, listen or read Elder Bednar's talk "The Hearts of the Children will Turn"