We can
strengthen our families, communities, and nations by studying “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” and by following its precepts. One way to study the proclamation is one
paragraph at a time.
The first paragraph of the
proclamation states, “We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve
Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim
that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family
is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.”
President Henry B. Eyring suggests that we study the proclamation as if we were “little children hearing
those words for the first time and believing they are true.” He says that a “little
child would feel safe hearing the words `marriage between a man and a woman is
ordained of God.’ The child would know that the longing to have the love of
both a father and a mother, distinct but somehow perfectly complementary,
exists because such longing is part of the eternal patter, the pattern of
happiness. The child would also feel safer knowing that God will help the
mother and father resolve differences and love each other, if only they would
ask for His help and try. Prayers of children across the earth would go up to
God, pleading for His help for parents and for families.”
While we study the proclamation
as if we were children, let us remember the family is essential to our eternal
happiness. We can receive the highest blessings of eternity only as family
units.
As you study the first paragraph
of the proclamation, you may want to share what you learn in a family home
evening. This site has a wonderful family home evening program all outlined
with lesson, music, activity, and refreshments. I hope you will use this outline and strengthen your family, community, and
nation by understanding the doctrine that marriage between a man and a woman is
ordained of God and that the family is central to Heavenly Father’s plan for
the happiness of all His children.
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