Introduction

Letter From The First Presidency

February 22, 19999

To: Members of the Church throughout the World

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

All about us we see evidence of the corrosive elements targeted to injure our youth.  We compliment most warmly those of our young people who choose to follow the way of the lord and the program of the Church.  We are pleased to note that faith is increasing among our youth, for which we are deeply grateful.

Unfortunately, there are some who fall into the adversary's net and drift into inactivity and trouble. We are deeply concerned with these.

We call upon parents to devote their best efforts to the teaching and rearing of their children in gospel principles which will keep them close to the Church.  The home is the basis of a righteous life, and no other instrumentality can take its place or fulfill its essential functions in carrying forward this God given responsibility.

We counsel parents and children to give highest priority to family prayer, family home evening, gospel study and instruction and wholesome family activities.  However worthy and appropriate other demands or activities may be, they must not be permitted to displace the divinely-appointed duties that only parents and families can adequately perform.

We urge bishops and other Church officers to do all they can to assist parent in seeing that they have time and help, were needed, as they nurture their families and bring them up in the way of the Lord.  Wherever possible, Sunday meetings, other than those under the three-hour schedule and perhaps council meetings on early Sunday mornings or firesides later in the evening, should be avoided so that parents may be with their children.  As we strengthen families, we will strengthen the entire Church.

Faithfully your brethren

Gordon B Hinckley

Thomas S Monson

James E Faust

The First Presendency

It has been said "if you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything." As mothers, wives, neighbors, friends, visiting teachers and sisters in this glorious dispensation we have a responsibility, duty, and calling to uplift everyone around us. From those within the walls of our home, to those we have just met, the way we choose to live our lives can have a profound impact on those around us. NEVER doubt your influence. NEVER question your value. When the adversary stands at your door telling you that you are not enough, stand tall, stand strong, and press forward with faith. We are in this together beloved sisters. We are stronger together then apart. May this year bring each of us closer to our Savior and closer to each other as we focus on those things "that matter most". 

"Moments that Matter Most" 

"We would do well to slow down a little. Focus on the significant, lift up our eyes and truly see the things that matter most. Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. It comes from paying attention to the divine things that matter most. Diligently doing the things that matter most will lead us to the Savior of the World." -President Uchtdorf