A Message of Eternal Joy

Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong and Elder Brett Nattress, both of the Quorum of the Seventy, personally welcomed guests and led them through the quiet elegance of the temple’s interior. Their message was clear: this is more than just a beautiful building; it is a “symbol of happiness in the City of Smiles.”

Elder Wong reminded us that while the world offers many fleeting pleasures, the temple offers something permanent.

“True happiness is found here,” he shared, “in the sealing of families together forever.”

Elder Nattress echoed this sentiment by pointing to the Savior’s own life. He highlighted how Jesus Christ frequently sought refuge and strength in the temple during His ministry, setting a pattern for us to find peace amidst the noise of our daily lives.

A Sanctuary of Universal Peace

For those who walked the halls for the first time, the experience was more than just a tour of architecture—it was a journey of the heart.

Prime Tejida, a member of the media, noted that she felt a sense of “universal peace” the moment she stepped inside.

Angel Nobleza shared her own witness of the atmosphere: “The spirit is so strong inside the temple. I’m confident that everyone who goes inside will feel it very strongly.”

The media guests were struck by the intricate details of the structure—including patterns inspired by the Filipino barong and local flora—but more so by the profound stillness that resides within its walls.

Experience it for Yourself

The beauty of the temple is not reserved for a few. Whether you are seeking answers, looking for a moment of quiet reflection, or simply want to see the craftsmanship of this new Bacolod landmark, you are invited to the public open house.

• Dates: Thursday, April 16 – Saturday, May 2, 2026 (excluding Sundays)
• Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Corner of Bacolod Airport Access Road and Buri Road, Brgy. Bata

Admission is free and no reservations are required. Come and see why this House of the Lord is being called a beacon of hope for all. We invite you to bring your family and feel for yourself the peace that transcends all understanding.

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In the increasingly toxic world we’re living in right now, the call to stand for peace feels stronger than ever. It’s heavy out there. Everywhere you look, there’s a conflict brewing. Whether it’s a heated battle of opinions on your feed, an increase in “I don’t care” apathy, or the slow burn of misunderstandings from unresolved issues, it can feel like our joy is being sucked out through a straw.

It’s easy to feel like the world is just “too far gone,” but here’s the truth: if we choose to establish peace in our own small circles, a more peaceful world actually becomes possible.

But how do we move from just wanting peace to actually making it? And what misconceptions are holding us back from trying? Let’s dive into what it really looks like to be a peacemaker in a messy world.

What Is A Peacemaker: Following The Example of Jesus Christ 

There’s a common misconception that being a peacemaker means being a “human doormat”—that Jesus was just this docile, soft-spoken figure who never ruffled any feathers. We imagine a peacemaker as someone who just smiles, stays quiet, and avoids conflict at all costs.

But if you look at the life of Jesus Christ, he was anything but passive. In fact, he was a disruptor. He spent His ministry challenging toxic traditions, calling out hypocrisy, and flipping tables when the situation demanded it.

Peace is a Verb, Not a Feeling

In the original Greek, the word used in the Beatitudes is eirēnopoios. It doesn’t mean “peace-lover” or “peace-wisher.” It literally means peace-maker. As President Russell M. Nelson has taught, “Peacemaking is a choice… a maker is someone who uses effort and intention to create, to build.”

Jesus didn’t just “feel” peaceful; He made peace by addressing the things that were destroying it.

1. He Challenged Traditions That Hurt People

The religious leaders of Jesus’ day had turned the law into a heavy burden. They cared more about the “rules” than the people the rules were meant to help. Jesus actively disrupted this. He healed on the Sabbath, he ate with “sinners,” and he spoke to people society told him to ignore.

He knew that you can’t have true peace where there is exclusion or spiritual bullying. By breaking those traditions, He was making a higher level of peace possible—one based on love rather than legalism.

2. He Called Out Hypocrisy (Even When It Was Uncomfortable)

Sometimes, the most “peaceful” thing you can do is speak the truth. Jesus wasn’t afraid to call out the Pharisees, famously calling them “whited sepulchres.” He wasn’t being mean; He was being a peacemaker.

Why? Because hypocrisy and spiritual manipulation are the enemies of peace. You can’t have a peaceful community built on lies. By calling out the truth, He was clearing the ground so that real, honest relationships could grow.

3. He Showed Us That Peace Requires Action

Think about the story of the woman taken in adultery. The “peaceful” thing according to the status quo would have been to let the law take its course. Instead, Jesus stepped into the middle of a violent, high-tension moment. He challenged the accusers to look at their own hearts.

He didn’t just “hope” for a peaceful outcome; He took the initiative to change the dynamic of the entire room. That is the essence of a peacemaker—someone who is “up and doing,” as LDS scholars often note, taking the initiative to reconcile people to God and to each other.

What Is A Peacemaker: Stories From The Scriptures

If you look through the Old and New Testaments, you’ll find that the definition of a peacemaker isn’t just one thing. It’s a beautiful, varied mosaic. Depending on the story, a peacemaker might be a mediator, a protector, or a humble servant. But while the “how” changes, the “who” remains the same: every scriptural example of peace points directly back to Jesus Christ.

Scriptural Heroes of Peace

Think about Abigail in the Old Testament. When her husband, Nabal, insulted David and put their entire household at risk of a violent attack, she didn’t just sit home and pray for a peaceful feeling. She acted. She gathered supplies, rode out to meet an angry army, and spoke with such wisdom and humility that she stopped a massacre before it started. She was a “maker” of peace through proactive, brave mediation.

Then look at Captain Moroni in the Book of Mormon. We often think of him in the context of war, but his entire motivation was peace. He didn’t fight for the sake of power; he fought to protect the “peace of their families” and their right to worship. His example shows us that sometimes, making peace means setting firm boundaries and defending what is sacred.

Ultimately, all these paths lead to the Prince of Peace. Whether it was Christ stilling the storm on the Sea of Galilee or His ultimate act of peacemaking—the Atonement—which reconciled us to God, He showed us that peace is the result of intentional, divine work.

What Peacemaking Is Not

It’s easy to fall into the trap of judging others’ “peacemaker status” based on their personality. 

We often look at someone who is soft-spoken and call them a peacemaker, while labeling someone who is outspoken or firm as “contentious.” But let’s clear the air: peacemaking is not the same as passive silence.

Peacemaking is not “Peace at any Price”

Sometimes, we think being a peacemaker means we should never speak up when something is wrong. We tell ourselves, “I’ll just stay quiet to keep the peace.” But if that “peace” is built on a foundation of unfairness, dishonesty, or harm, it isn’t actually peace—it’s just a temporary lack of noise.

True peacemaking requires us to speak out against things that destroy the Spirit. If someone is being bullied, if a tradition is harmful, or if the truth is being twisted, a real peacemaker doesn’t stay silent. They speak up—not to start a fight, but to restore a foundation where true peace can actually exist.

Peacemaking is not Avoidance

Avoiding a hard conversation isn’t peacemaking; it’s just procrastination. Avoiding conflict often leads to “fake peace,” where resentment simmers under the surface. A peacemaker has the courage to address the “elephant in the room” with charity.

“Blessed are the peacemakers,” doesn’t mean “Blessed are those who never say anything uncomfortable.”

It means blessed are those who are brave enough to disrupt a toxic situation so that a healthy, Christ-centered peace can take its place. Being outspoken doesn’t disqualify you from being a peacemaker—as long as your voice is being used to build up, to protect, and to point people back to the truth.

Remember, you don’t have to be perfect to start. You don’t even have to be fearless. You just have to be willing to trade your silence for service and your “peace at any price” for the true, lasting peace of Jesus Christ.

The world doesn’t need more people who just love the idea of peace. It needs makers. It needs people like Abigail, like Moroni, and like you—ready to speak up, ready to disrupt the toxic, and ready to labor with the Prince of Peace in the “staggering task” of healing a broken world.So, the next time you feel that nudge to speak out for someone being sidelined, or the courage to finally have that “elephant in the room” conversation—take it. You aren’t just ruffling feathers; you’re clearing a path for the Spirit to return. And that is exactly what a peacemaker does.

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But let’s be real for a second. We live in a world of busy schedules, social anxiety, and the very human fear of rejection. We worry about being “too much” or, conversely, not having enough to offer. 

If you’ve ever sat in your car for five minutes giving yourself a pep talk before walking up to a neighbor’s porch, believe me—I have been there too.

My struggles with ministering were exactly the reasons why – when listening to Sister Kristin M. Yee’s talk – I couldn’t hold back the tears. 

What is “Ministering Service,” Anyway?

For those who might be new to the term, ministering is simply the way members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints look out for one another. We are organized into “assignments”—usually a pair of sisters or brothers who are asked to specifically pray for, visit, and help a few specific families or individuals.

It’s not meant to be a formal inspection or a rigid “lesson.” It’s a buddy system designed to make sure nobody falls through the cracks. It’s about being there for the big things (like a hospital stay) and the small things (like a text to say, “I’m thinking of you”).

Why We Hesitate: The Challenges of Ministering

We often justify our hesitation. “They seem busy,” we tell ourselves. Or, “I don’t want to be a burden.” We’re shy, we’re embarrassed, or we feel like we aren’t “spiritual” enough to make a difference.

Sister Yee’s talk completely shifted my perspective. She reminded us that ministering isn’t a program we “do”—it’s a way of being. It is the essence of who God is. When we realize that, the pressure to be perfect disappears, and the desire to just be present takes over.

What Ministering Service Really Is and How It Blesses Lives

Sister Yee shared a beautiful story about her father. He was at a very low point in his life when two members of the Church started visiting him. They didn’t just drop off a plate of cookies; they invited him into their lives. They drove him to the temple every single week for three years.

They didn’t judge where he was; they just walked with him. Because of their quiet, consistent devotion, Sister Yee’s father changed. His health improved, his relationships healed, and his family was eternally blessed.

My own “Friend in the Ward” Moment

I remember when I first moved to a new ward. I felt like a total stranger in a sea of established friendships. I was the “new girl” sitting alone in the back row. I can still remember the prayers I made to feel welcomed, accepted, and seen. 

The memory of the first sister who came up to me is no longer clear, but the feeling is. I felt the warmth of fellowship at that moment. In my heart, I knew that interaction was an answered prayer from Heavenly Father. 

In that moment, I wasn’t just a name on a clerk’s list anymore. I was seen. That sister was just like what Sister Yee mentioned— the sister gets to be the Savior’s hands in answering someone else’s prayer for connection.

And aren’t most of our deepest, sincerest prayers often answered with the help of another person? Can you imagine the blessings that will come in someone’s life if we decided to really be intentional in ministering to them? 

When Ministering Service Gets Hard, Remember This…

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your assignment or just plain nervous, keep these encouraging points from Sister Yee’s talk in your back pocket:

You Are Not Alone

As we minister in faith, the Lord goes with us. He provides the means for us to accomplish what He’s asked us to do.

It’s Not About Fixing

We might not be able to fix someone’s heartbreaking circumstances. That’s okay. We aren’t called to be “fixers”; we are called to love.

The “Just Go” Rule

Sister Yee mentioned a young sister who felt nervous about how people would respond. Her secret? “I go—and it usually turns out much better than I thought.”

Ministering Service Is Your Covenant, Not a Task

We aren’t “called to” or “released from” ministering. It’s part of our baptismal promise to take His name upon us. When we minister, we start to think, feel, and love like He does.

The Joy is in the Connection

At the end of the day, Heavenly Father carries out His work “one by one.” He doesn’t save us in batches; He loves us individually. Ministering is our chance to join Him in that beautiful, personal work.

When we choose to care for a person over a task, the Spirit enters in. You’ll find that as you try to bring relief to someone else, you often find your own healing. As Sister Yee so perfectly put it: “When we offer His love and belonging to others, we will find it ourselves.”

So, take a deep breath, send that text, or knock on 그 door. You aren’t just “doing work”—you are helping the Lord love His children. And there is no greater joy than that.

The post More Than a Checklist: Finding the Savior in the Ministering Service We Give appeared first on morefaith.ph.

While our Sunday block will remain two hours long, these changes are designed to bridge the gap between our gospel study at home and our fellowship at church. By meeting every week, we create a consistent space to share our experiences, steady our faith, and find the spiritual support we all need in a busy world.

What to Expect Each Sunday

Under the new schedule, we will no longer alternate weeks between Sunday School and our quorums or classes. Instead, we’ll have the opportunity to participate in both—every single Sunday.

• Sacrament Meeting: 60 minutes of focused worship on the Savior.
• Sunday School: 25 minutes of shared study using Come, Follow Me.
• Priesthood, Relief Society, and Youth Classes: 25 minutes of counseling and learning together.
• Primary: 55 minutes of gospel fun and instruction for our children.

Empowering Our Youth

Our young men and young women will begin using the updated For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices as their weekly curriculum. This guide is a powerful tool to help our youth anchor their identity in Christ. As they study these principles weekly, they will be better prepared for the temple, for missions, and for building their own future families with confidence and hope.

Finding Strength in the Gathering

As we transition to this new rhythm, the goal remains the same: to become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ. Whether we are discussing the latest general conference messages in Relief Society and elders quorum or diving into the scriptures in Sunday School, these weekly touchpoints are a gift. They allow us to walk the covenant path not as individuals, but as a community of Saints, bound together by our love for the Lord.

To learn more about these changes, visit Newsroom.

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“The temple is a powerful symbol of the light of Jesus Christ that has now come to Davao,” Elder Kopischke shared during the media preview. “It is a symbol of peace and understanding.”

To help you make the most of this historic season, he extended five heartfelt invitations to every visitor who walks through these sacred gates.

1. Look Beyond the Structure

While the craftsmanship is breathtaking, Elder Kopischke invites us to look past the physical beauty of the brick and mortar. The temple is more than a landmark; it is a testament to the eternal nature of the soul and the strength of the families it serves.

2. Take Time to Ponder

The temple grounds are a refuge from the noise of the world. Use this visit as a rare opportunity to be still. We encourage you to reflect, listen to your heart, and bring your questions—we are here to answer them and seek truth alongside you.

3. Feel the Light and Peace

There is a unique spirit found within these walls and throughout the surrounding gardens. You are invited to simply feel. In this environment of love, many find a sense of calm and clarity that is difficult to find anywhere else.

4. Ask the Most Important Question

As you tour the rooms, Elder Kopischke suggests asking yourself: “What is Jesus Christ offering me?” This temple is a physical representation of His grace, His promises, and His desire to be part of our daily lives.

5. Be a Channel of Invitation

If you feel something special during your visit, don’t keep it to yourself. Use your own voice and your own channels to invite as many people as possible. Help others experience the same peace and beauty that you found here.

Plan Your Visit The Philippines Davao Temple Open House runs from March 26 to April 10, 2026. Everyone—regardless of faith or background—is warmly invited to attend. Bring a friend, bring your family, and come experience the peace for yourself.

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The updated guidelines are available now on the Gospel Library app and the Church’s official website.

A Focus on Sacred Covenants

At the heart of this update is a renewed emphasis on the “work of salvation and exaltation.” Chapter 1 and Section 3.5 have been reorganized to highlight how essential ordinances and covenants are to our spiritual progression.

The handbook now offers deeper explanations of the specific blessings and promises associated with:

• Baptism and Confirmation
• Melchizedek Priesthood ordination
• The Temple Endowment and Sealing

As President Dallin H. Oaks taught in the April 2024 General Conference, these sacred agreements are not just formalities; they are the requirements for entering and finding exaltation within the celestial kingdom.

Expanding Leadership in Sunday School

One of the most significant procedural changes involves Ward Sunday School presidencies. To better support the mission of teaching the gospel, the First Presidency announced that bishops may now call either a man or a woman to serve as the Sunday School president.

• If a man is called: He must hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, and his counselors and secretary must also be men.
• If a woman is called: Her counselors and secretary must be women.

This adjustment allows for greater flexibility, allowing bishops to follow the Spirit and consider the unique needs and talents within their specific wards. Note that at the stake level, the Sunday School president remains a member of the high council.

Key Updates at a Glance

The revision covers a wide array of topics designed to streamline Church administration and enrich the member experience:

These updates serve as a reminder that the General Handbook is a living document, designed to evolve as the Church grows. By aligning our local efforts with these inspired instructions, we can better foster a community of faith and belonging.

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This change is more than just a policy update; it is an invitation for more of God’s children to bring their unique spiritual insights to the vital work of gospel instruction.

What This Means for Your Ward

The transition is effective immediately at the local level. Here is a quick look at how these new presidencies will be structured:

• Expanded Leadership: Bishops may now prayerfully call either a man or a woman to lead the Sunday School in their ward.
• Unified Presidencies: To maintain current administrative guidelines, presidencies will remain single-gender. If a woman is called as president, her counselors and secretary will also be women. Likewise, if a man is called, the presidency will remain all-male.
• Local Focus: For now, this change applies specifically to individual wards. Stake and General Sunday School presidencies will continue to be comprised of priesthood holders.

Strengthening the Heart of the Home and Church

The core mission of the Sunday School remains unchanged: to help us all come unto Christ through the diligent study of His word. Sunday School General President Paul V. Johnson noted that this change provides Bishoprics with “additional options” as they seek inspired leaders to foster spiritual growth.

Sara Daniela Acosta, a member of the Sunday School General Advisory Council, beautifully captured the spirit of this announcement. She reminded us that regardless of who stands at the head, the goal is for members to “learn together, teach each other, grow in faith and draw closer to their Savior.”

A Step Toward Greater Inclusion

For many who have long felt that the administrative tasks of Sunday School—such as organizing classes and supporting teachers—could be capably handled by the sisters of the Church, this news is a reason to rejoice. While the Church continues to move in “baby steps,” as some observers note, each step forward is a testament to the ongoing Restoration and the belief that “He denieth none that come unto him” (2 Nephi 26:33).

As we see more of our sisters stepping into these leadership roles, we can look forward to a richer, more vibrant culture of learning where every voice is valued and every soul is nourished by the good word of God.

This is a developing story.

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From the courage of Sarah to the quiet strength of Abish, these women weren’t just supporting characters. They were the pivot points of history.

Today, let’s talk about 10 powerhouse women who can teach us how to lead, love, and level up in 2026.

Honoring the Women and Learning From Their Influence

Why does it matter to study these women? Because representation is a divine necessity. When we see ourselves in the scriptures, we realize that God doesn’t just work through prophets; He works through mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends.

Learning from them gives us a spiritual mirror. It reminds us that our unique feminine intuition and resilience are not just personality traits—they are spiritual gifts meant to change the world.

The 10 Influential Women of the Scriptures

Eve: The Mother of Choices

Eve wasn’t just the first woman. She was the first visionary. She understood that for us to grow, we had to move forward, even if it meant leaving the comfort of the garden.

In our careers or personal lives, we often face moments that call us to be like Eve — deciding to leave a “safe” situation to pursue growth. She teaches us to embrace the courage of the fall to reach the joy of the climb.

2. Sarah: The Strength of Waiting

Sarah waited decades for a promise to be fulfilled. She laughed, she doubted, but ultimately, she endured. And she was blessed because she was patient and faithful.

Are you waiting for a promotion, a child, or a breakthrough? Sarah shows us that God’s timing isn’t a no but a not yet. Her life is a masterclass in staying the course when the biological or social clock is ticking.

3. Esther: The Advocate

Esther used her position of influence to save her people. She didn’t stay silent when things got uncomfortable. Even with the risk of death, she moved forward and did a brave thing, which ultimately saved her people.

Whether you’re standing up against office gossip or advocating for better community policies in your community, Esther reminds us to be courageous because your courage may be needed “For such a time as this.”

4. The Widow of Zarephath: The Radical Giver

This woman had one last meal for her and her son, yet she gave it to the prophet Elijah first. She chose faith over the scarcity mindset. She chose to follow the prophet, and obey God despite being in the verge of losing it all.

When inflation is high and resources are low, it’s tempting to hoard. This widow teaches us that when we put God first, the “oil and flour” of our lives—our time and energy—somehow never run dry.

5. Mary, Mother of Jesus: The Willing Heart

“Be it unto me according to thy word.” Mary’s life was completely redirected by God’s plan. She accepted a path that was socially terrifying because she trusted the Source.

When life throws you a curveball—a sudden move, a job change, or a new calling—Mary teaches us to say “Yes” to the process, even if we don’t know the ending yet.

6. Hannah: The Power of Persistent Prayer

Hannah’s soul was in deep pain, yet she took that pain directly to the temple. She didn’t let the judgment of others stop her communication with God.

In an age of “toxic positivity,” Hannah shows it’s okay to be real with God. She teaches us that our deepest vulnerabilities can become our greatest spiritual breakthroughs.

7. The Woman at the Well: The First Missionary

She had a complicated past, but after one conversation with Jesus, she left her water pot and ran to tell the whole village.

You don’t have to be perfect to be a leader. This woman teaches us that our “mess” can become our “message.” In 2026, being an “influencer” isn’t about filters; it’s about sharing authentic truth.

8. Sariah: The Silent Pillar

Leaving a comfortable home in Jerusalem for a tent in the wilderness couldn’t have been easy. Sariah dealt with murmuring sons and a visionary husband, yet she kept the family together.

Shout out to the “middle managers” of life—the moms and sisters keeping the peace during family drama. Sariah is proof that your emotional labor is seen and sanctified.

9. Abish: The Catalyst of Faith

Abish was a servant who had been converted for years in secret. When the Lamanite king’s household fell into a trance, she was the one who ran from house to house to gather the people.

Abish represents the “quiet workers.” You might not be the one at the podium, but you are the one making things happen behind the scenes. Your network is your ministry.

10. The Mothers of the 2,000 Stripling Warriors

These women didn’t fight on the front lines, but their testimony was the armor their sons wore. Their children said, “We do not doubt our mothers knew it.”

In our homes today, we are the primary content creators for the next generation. What we say (and what we do) becomes the internal voice our children carry into their own battles.

Your Story is Still Being Written

As we celebrate Women’s Month, remember that you are part of this lineage. You are the “Modern Eve,” the “Modern Esther,” and the “Abish of your neighborhood.”

The world might tell you that you are “just” a woman, but the scriptures tell us that women are the keepers of the flame. Your influence isn’t measured by likes or followers, but by the lives you steady and the faith you foster.

The post The Influence Of Women In The Scriptures: 10 Amazing Women In The Written Word appeared first on morefaith.ph.

This sacred call came on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, marking a new chapter in a life already defined by a profound intersection of faith and learning. Elder Gilbert was subsequently ordained on Thursday, February 12, by President Dallin H. Oaks, surrounded by the First Presidency and his fellow Apostles.

Stepping into this lifetime of service, Elder Gilbert expressed a deep desire to point people toward the joy and peace found only in Jesus Christ. “If people all across the world will look to Him, He will make their lives better, more meaningful, more joyful,” he shared.

His message is a warm invitation to everyone, regardless of their starting point, to recognize their divine potential. He reminds us that in the Lord’s timing, our direction matters far more than our origin, and that through the Savior, we can all “become something more.”

Things to Know About Elder Clark G. Gilbert

As we welcome Elder Gilbert to his new role, here are several key highlights from his life and ministry:

A graduate of BYU, Stanford, and Harvard, he previously served on the faculty of Harvard Business School before dedicating his career to Church education.

He served as the inaugural president of BYU–Pathway Worldwide, an initiative that has reached over 288,000 students in 180 countries, focusing on providing affordable, spiritually-based education.

His experience spans across various leadership roles, including CEO of Deseret Digital Media, president of the Deseret News, and president of BYU–Idaho.

Prior to this call, he served as the Commissioner of the Church Educational System, overseeing all Church-owned universities and the global Seminary and Institute programs.

He served a full-time mission in Kobe, Japan, and is a father of eight children with his wife, Christine, whom he married in the Salt Lake Temple in 1994.

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But as she entered the foyer, a sudden wave of uncertainty enveloped her.

She looked at the rows of pews, each one filled with parents, children, and grandparents sitting together. “Is there a seating assignment here?” she wondered. “Everyone seems to be with their family. Where do I fit in?”

While the atmosphere was peaceful and the Spirit was undeniable, Sarah felt a sharp contrast in her own heart. She had come because she loved the gospel, yet looking around, she felt like a guest at a family reunion she wasn’t quite part of yet.

“The first time I went, I was so excited and curious,” Sarah recalls. “But as I sat there, I felt this strange mix of peace and confusion. It seemed like a church designed for families, and I was there all by myself. I remember thinking, ‘Do I really belong here?’“

Families Are Central To The Church, Which Can Feel Lonely for Those Alone

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints places a beautiful emphasis on the family. We believe that family is central to God’s plan and that these bonds are meant to last beyond this life. It is a message of hope, but for those who walk into the chapel without a spouse, parent, or sibling by their side, that same message can sometimes feel like a quiet reminder of what they are missing.

While every person is welcomed with open arms, there is a unique type of loneliness that comes with being the only one in your family to embrace the gospel.

Ryan (not his real name) remembers sitting through a testimony meeting where the theme of eternal families took center stage. “It always warms my heart to hear people share their witness that families can be together forever,” he says. “I believe it with all my heart. But in the quiet moments, I’m often left wondering, ‘What about me?’ It’s hard to claim that promise for yourself when you’re the only one in your home walking this path.”

For Sarah, the struggle is often found in the day-to-day rhythm of living her faith. “Being the first or only member in your family is an uphill climb,” she admits. “You come to church and see families uplifting each other, but when you go home, you might be the only one praying or reading the scriptures. Sometimes your beliefs are questioned, and most of the time, you’re your own support system. It can feel incredibly isolating.”

So, what is it that keeps them moving forward when the climb feels steep? For both Sarah and Ryan, the answer has been the “family” they found within the pews. It was the leaders who checked in when things were quiet and the members who cleared a spot on their bench, making sure no one had to sit—or journey—alone.

Church Members Can Help Ease The Loneliness: Remembering That The Church Is A Family

While the “pioneer” journey can feel solitary, the beauty of the Gospel is that we are never truly meant to walk alone.

When we step into the waters of baptism, we don’t just join a church; we are adopted into a global family. For Sarah and Ryan, this wasn’t just a nice sentiment—it became their lifeline.

Sarah’s perspective began to shift when she realized her church friends weren’t just peers; they were sisters and brothers. Local families began inviting her over for Sunday dinners and including her in their holiday traditions. “I started to see that God provides family in different ways,” she says. “The families in my ward didn’t just ‘welcome’ me; they made me feel like I truly belonged on their bench and in their lives.”

For Ryan, belonging came through the quiet, consistent support of his leaders. His Bishop became more than just a local leader—he became a father figure. “He helped me navigate the gospel and answered my hardest questions without judgment,” Ryan shares. “Having someone to look up to who truly cared about my progress made all the difference. I realized that while my biological family wasn’t at church with me, I had a spiritual fatherhood and brotherhood surrounding me.”

5 Ways To Make The Church Feel Like A Family

If there is a member in your congregation who is the only one in their family attending, you have a sacred opportunity to be their support system. Here are five ways to help them feel at home:

Look Beyond the Familiar

It is natural to gravitate toward our own families or long-time friends, but a simple “Hello” can change someone’s entire day. Make it a point to greet those sitting alone. You never know who is waiting for a sign that they are seen.

Broaden the Circle of Inclusion

Inclusion is more than an invitation; it’s an intentional effort. If you’re planning a casual get-together or a study group, think of the “pioneers” in your ward. A simple text saying, “We’d love to have you join us,” can bridge the gap between being a guest and being a friend.

Be Mindful of Different Realities

During lessons about family or traditions, be aware that some in the room may be struggling to apply those principles in a divided home. Use language that validates all life situations, ensuring everyone feels the Savior’s promises apply to them, too.

Find Common Ground in Christ

We may come from different backgrounds, but we all share a love for the Savior. Focus on the core truths of the Gospel. When we talk about our shared faith, we realize that our commonalities are much stronger than our different family dynamics.

Simply Be There

You don’t need a complex plan or “heavy” words to make an impact. Sometimes, fellowship is just sitting next to someone in the chapel so they don’t have to look at an empty seat. Reliability and presence are the greatest gifts you can offer.

Conclusion

Being the “only one” is an act of incredible courage. It is a testament to a person’s love for the Lord that they continue to show up, even when their pews are empty of kin. But in the Kingdom of God, no one is an island.

By opening our hearts and our homes, we fulfill the true purpose of the Church: to be a place where everyone—regardless of their family’s status—can say with confidence, “I belong here.” To those walking this path alone: your feelings are valid, your courage is seen, and you are so very loved.

If you or someone you know are struggling with feelings of belongingness in the Church, talk to us.

The post What It’s Like To Be The Only Church Member In The Family: There’s Loneliness… But There’s Peace appeared first on morefaith.ph.