Lake Ward

Around the Lake Ward

2011-10-30T23:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath,

The Priesthood leadership was reorganized last week. Glenn Fugikawa, Thom Zambrana and Bob Bracy were released. Dale Phillips, Chris Hill and Scott Giles were set apart as the new Elders Quorum Presidency and Chris Young was set apart as the High Priest Group Leader.

There were 4 people who were asked to bear their testimony at the beginning of the meeting; Kristen Curtis, Bernard Martinez, Greg Sandoval and Scott Mitchell. They all did an amazing job!!!

After a rest hymn, the Bishop spoke. I started taking notes and about half way through his talk I thought, "Why am I taking notes? I should just send his entire talk out!" So I stopped. Here is a link to his talk:

http://goo.gl/UR9Vp

The Bishop delivered a talk that he was inspired to give. You could feel the spirit as he spoke of the men in the ward, how much he loved them and seeing their growth in the gospel. It is easy to admire the men in our ward, from the Bishop on down!!!

With it being the 5th Sunday, we had a combined Priesthood / Relief Society meeting which Erin Caldwell taught. Erin has taught Cotillion for years and she imparted some great information to us. She did a fantastic job and we learned some great tips. Then we had cookies in the social hall where we got to practice our newly learned skills!

It was a stupendous day at church. We felt the spirit, enjoyed the fellowship and had our buckets filled for the coming week.

With much love,

Debbie

A Sunday of Parables

2011-10-23T23:02:00.000-07:00

Victoria described sacrament meeting as "as Sunday of Parables." I thought that was a good description of the bishopric wives' talks, which I will try to summarize. Since Debbie was focused on her talk, she let me know that I would have to take notes and write up the summary today! Unfortunately, I forgot I was supposed to take notes until halfway through Sister Eaton's talk -- I hope I summarized everything well!

In keeping with the month's theme on love and charity, the bishopric's wives spoke today. Sister Eaton spoke, followed by Sister Moon, with Sister Gardner finishing.

Sister Eaton helped us understand how love leads to repentance while anger has the opposite effect. To illustrate the importance of kindness, forgiveness, and showing love, she related the following story. An employee at an automotive shop once encountered a young man stealing parts, so he chased him down and wanted to call the police. The employee's father, who owned the shop, however, took the thief aside and walked him back to the shop, talking all the way about the car problem the young man was facing. When they arrived back at the shop, the problem had been diagnosed and the owner gave the young man the parts necessary to fix it. This young man was so touched that he became friends with the shop owners, repented, repaid for all the items he had stolen, and eventually joined the church. Sister Eaton closed by quoting from Matt. 25:34-40, which says in part, "...I was a stranger, and ye took me in... When saw we thee a stranger and took thee in? ...Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

Sister Moon told us about her 18-month old Gavin who has learned to shut doors but not to open them. He backs himself out of a room and pulls the door shut, but since he can't open it, he puts a barrier between himself and his parents. Sister Moon pointed out that we often do the same thing ourselves. But this barrier is lowered through forgiveness. Just as the Israelites were asked to simply look upon the upraised staff and be healed, forgiving others is simple. Sister Moon pointed out how there are many touching examples of forgiveness in the scriptures -- Joseph forgave his brothers in Egypt, Nephi forgave his siblings for tying him up and beating him, Joseph Smith forgave while in the Liberty Jail. But the greatest example of forgiveness was when Christ on the cross forgave those who had hung him there. When we are wronged, let the Savior carry the burden and forgive. Sister Moon closed by telling the story of how she had been wronged by a shoe store and she kept ranting and complaining about it, until finally Sister Clayton told her, "Enough with the shoe story!" So let's forgive and let it go. It is simple, especially if we put the burden upon the Savior.

Our final speaker was Sister Gardner. She told how she had moved a lot as a child but had always felt loved and accepted until 8th grade in San Jose. Because her mother insisted that she wear a long skirt, she was ridiculed and shunned. Although the gospel helped her through the year, this experience taught her that we need to be inclusive and accepting with others. We are all different and that is beautiful. Think of an orchestra. If every member of the orchestra played the same instrument and same tune, it would be beautiful but boring. The combination of different instruments, rich and varying sounds, and musical harmony makes the music interesting and joyous. Tolerance leads to compassion which leads to love. Just as the Savior loved the outcast, the sinners, and was inviting to everyone, we need to do the same. Sister Gardner advised us to reach out, include others, and open up our circles. Smile and say Hi to each other!

It was an amazingly uplifting and spiritual sacrament meeting. Of course, the best part of sacrament meeting was having our wives sit on the stand with us so we could hold hands and enjoy each others' company while listening to the talks, something the bishopric doesn't get to do very often!

In other news, our priesthood leadership was reorganized during Priesthood Meeting. Glenn F, Thom Z, and Bob B were released with a vote of thanks for an absolutely astounding job they had done during their year and a half of leadership. Dale P was called as the new Elders Quorum President with Chris H and Scott G serving as counselors. Chris Y was called as our High Priest Group Leader. This is the first time we've had a High Priest Group Leader in the ward and we are looking forward to great things!

Thank you for being such wonderful friends and ward members,

Bishop Gardner

Around the Lake Ward

2011-10-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath to all,

It has been quite some time since I've done a wrap-up of our meetings. Between summer vacations, grandchildren, General and Stake Conference - life has been anything but normal! But things are settling down and I'm ready to get back into the groove. So here we go....

The Bishop started the meeting by explaining that the change in the Irvine and Orange Stakes single's programs, which combined the Orange Stake's Single Adult program with the Lake Ward, came through those who hold apostolic keys. We had lots of visitors today and hopefully all felt welcomed!

Donna H, the Relief Society president, was the first speaker. She started by saying that she hoped the visitors feel the love and acceptance of the ward.

Donna told the story of her youngest son who had lots of freckles. She had always told him that freckles are what angels leave behind when they kiss you at night. But once he got to school, he realized that not everyone liked freckles. He asked Donna, "How come the angels love me more?" Donna thought for a moment and then replied, "It isn't that they loved us more, but that we needed the absolute proof that they were there."

In D&C 6:20, Oliver Cowdery was told, "Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, and I will encircle thee in the arms of my love." Donna pointed out that we need to believe, seek, cling to and make friends with Christ. We need to KNOW Him. In John 17:3 it says, "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." We need to utilize prayer; praying, then listening, and to study His life to get to know Him.

Donna then talked about Charity - Charity never faileth. The opposite of charity is criticizing. We should show charity to those who go un-noticed. Charity is love in action, it is non-judgmental. Donna loved the example of Christ in 3rd Nephi where He spent one on one time with the people. She ended by asking, "Have you received His image in your countenance?"

Marcia C favored us with a harp solo, "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring." Marcia is leaving the ward, but came one last time. Thank you, Marcia, for all your wonderful work with the music in the ward. We wish you the best, but you will be missed!

Glenn F, the Elders' Quorum president, was the last speaker. He spoke about Christ's example in our lives. Glenn told the story of an older man who stopped some missionaries and wanted to compliment them on their church. The Elders asked why and the older man told the story of when he had been stuck on the side of the road when his car had broken down. A stranger stopped, took him into town, helped him to get the help needed and took the mechanic out to his car to get the job done. When the older man offered to pay the stranger, he declined the money saying, "Just compliment the Mormon Church to others." Years later he saw a newspaper of a Mormon meeting happening in his town and saw the picture of the stranger who had helped him - Pres. Spencer W. Kimball!

Glenn then told a story of Linda J, who was getting her masters in accounting and working for a company with a bunch of young guys who were making lots of money. She wasn't interested in any of the guys, but one guy in particular asked her to lunch and she said yes. During lunch the topic turned to the church. They agreed to attend sacrament meeting together on Sunday. There were 4 people at the sacrament meeting who are still in the Irvine Stake and the guy who went to lunch and sacrament meeting was Glenn.

Glenn pointed out that he has seen many good things happening in our ward. The members are so good; home teachers, fellowshipping others, all those who serve so diligently in their callings. He mentioned the stories from the New Testament about the adulteress and the prodigal son, saying that our ward does not judge others, that we are accepting of everyone and there is not grumbling.

Glenn then told a very personal story of a time when he had made some poor choices. He had gone to talk with the Bishop, who he felt had been rather harsh and judgmental of him and he used it as an excuse to not be really active in the church. He attended church, did his home teaching, but his heart wasn't really in it. He was carrying around a grudge.

When 2 dear friends got married in the temple and he wasn't able to attend the sealing, Glenn realized that the only person being hurt by his carrying around the grudge was himself. He quoted D&C 64:9, "Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another, for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin." Glenn said that he was in the wrong and that he should have forgiven the Bishop at that time instead of carrying the grudge for years. Glenn said that sometimes the hardest person to forgive is ourselves.

We had a delicious Bishopric Wives Dinner made by Sister Moon!!! We loved being back together after 2 weeks of General and Stake Conference!!! We enjoying seeing all that were there, especially the visitors, and missed those who weren't able to make it.

With much love,
Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2011-06-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

Hello wonderful ward members & friends,

Debbie is in Utah this weekend attending the birth of our 8th grandchild (a beautiful baby girl, born Thursday evening, Suzanne Elizabeth Schofield), so I have to do the update. It's a bit self-serving since I spoke...

It was ward conference today. I truly appreciate everyone who made a special effort to be there. It was delightful to see you all. I also decided that, despite how much Beth likes those seats "under the clock," it felt more cozy and like a family having most of you sitting in the center section. Thank you!

I spoke first. I chose the topic of Joy because I have been feeling that if there is one thing I wish for every member, friend, and visitor to the ward, it is to find everlasting and eternal joy. This doesn't mean being "happy" since sometimes the things we have to do to achieve lasting joy are not happy things! They may take hard work and sacrifice. Joy comes through (among others) two primary activities: service and covenants (or keeping the commandments). I urge each of you to lose yourself in service and strive to keep the commandments, so that you may find joy, the joy that comes from the love of the Lord and the hope of one day dwelling in the presence of the Lord in a "state of happiness which hath no end." The full text of my talk can be found at: http://goo.gl/TLLWM

For our interlude music we were treated to a most delightful vocal solo by Mariann C, accompanied by Marcia C on her Irish harp, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing. I was moved to tears by its beauty and couldn't decide if I'd rather watch Mariann sing or Marcia play!

To close the meeting, President Rasmussen spoke about the importance of bearing our testimonies, walking us through the scriptural foundations for this practice. President Rasmussen warned us that the Lord expects us to bear our testimony and open our mouths to warn our neighbors. He quoted from Elder Oaks in a 1990 talk that as faith in our society diminishes, it becomes ever more important for us to be increasingly valiant in our testimonies, both in having them and in sharing them. Finally, President Rasmussen noted that the best way for us, today, to share our testimonies is by creating a profile on mormon.org and submitting our testimony. He thanked those who have done this and encouraged them to update it. He then issued a calling to those who have not done yet submitted a testimony to do so. President Rasmussen earlier shared with me the experience he had creating his own profile on mormon.org and indicated that he feels strong urging from the spirit to have every member of the stake do the same.

Some important announcements:

We will be holding a Temple Preparation class during Sunday School, taught by Br. Eaton, starting on July 10. If you are interested in attending this class, please contact a member of the bishopric.

Home Evening is at the Eatons tomorrow and the Gardners the following Monday. Learn about the steel guitar at the Eatons, and The Five Love Languages at the Gardners.

Next Saturday, June 18, is a Temple Grounds Tour at 2pm. Invite your friends. And a ward BBQ at the Eatons' at 6pm.

With much love,
Bishop Gardner

Around the Lake Ward

2011-05-15T22:23:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since we posted. Sorry for the delay, it's been a very busy month!

Happy Sabbath to all,

In ward news, Heidi K was sustained to the fitness committee.

We had 2 (well 3) speakers - read on to have that make sense. Patricia M spoke first. She spoke about Muslims. In 2000, the church spoke highly of Mohammed and said that Muslims had a hard time having a truthful history written about them. In 1978 the church said that God's love was for all mankind.

According to Islam, Mohammed was the last of a long line of prophets. Mohammed means "praise." He was born in Mecca, orphaned as a youth and worked as a herdsman - so he had lots of time to think. He married at age 25, she proposed to him, and they had 4 daughters and 2 sons. At age 40 he said that the angel Gabriel appeared to him and for the next 22 years (610-632 A.D.) Mohammed said that he received revelation from God through Gabriel.

Mohammed preached against idolatry and female infanticide and moved from Mecca to Medina, where he was more accepted. He died at age 62. He had simple tastes and smiled often. He loved children and when he was criticized for kissing his grandson he said, "If you want mercy, you must give mercy." He taught that fasting would bring about the state of humility. Pres. Hinckley taught that we need to be respectful of everyone and don't look for faults. He pointed out that Heavenly Father wants us to be mindful of every people.

Susan P started by reading a poem about the Plan of Salvation by Orson F. Whitney. Susan then pointed out that we were there when the plan was laid out. In order to receive our 2nd estate we need to be obedient to the commandments in this life. We have had a veil placed over our minds and we must walk by faith. We all have challenges, trials and opportunities. As we gain knowledge of the Plan of Salvation, we gain an eternal perspective. Trials and challenges are but for a moment, if we have an eternal perspective. But it is easy to lose our eternal perspective, it is acquired only by faith. A mortal perspective is easy to get, especially during trials. You can begin to wonder, "Does the Lord love me, does He hear me, does He care about me... Why am I being punished?"

Challenges and growth experiences are temporary. They are events in life, not the substance of life. Life can and should be rewarding, challenges are but stepping stones to growth and attainment. Susan then said that all good talks had a great story that is memorable. She said that instead of trying to tell the story, she had asked the person whose story it was to come and tell us the story herself.

Kathy S, a non-LDS, then spoke to us and told us her story. She was kidnapped when she was 12 years old. She was VERY badly beaten, hit, thrown against the wall, strangled and suffocated. She was beyond terrified! All she could think was, "Breathe, breathe!" Then something that she described as a bolt of lightning came and the pain was gone. She felt very peaceful, connected to everyone, pure love, no pain and she heard, "You don't have to breathe, you are okay." She thought she had died and realized that she didn't have to breathe. Then she had a breath and came back to life. She was then knifed in the throat and dropped off in the woods to die. She started walking, but soon gave up and sat down. A voice told her to get up and walk some more. She said that she obviously lived.

Kathy then asked the question, "What is the purpose, what does it matter?" She said that when you die there is no hurt, pain or anything negative - only peace. She was able to forgive the man who did those things to her. She pointed out that we all have lessons to learn. That 100% of us will die, but will we live? We all have a purpose! She ended by telling a story of William Hearst - he wanted a particular piece of art and told his people to find it and he didn't care how much it cost. One of them found it and he was willing to pay any price to own it. He was then told that it was found in his storage bin. Sometimes the things that we are looking for are really in our own storage bin already. Susan wrapped up by saying that we are blessed to know who we are and where we are going.

We had a delicious Bishopric Wives Dinner made by Sis. Moon, followed by a terrific fireside on the temple presented by the Bennetts.

We loved seeing all that were there and missed those who weren't!!!

With much love,
Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2011-04-10T19:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath,

Released – Matt B as the ward mission leader and Mariann C as a RS instructor. Many thanks to them for their wonderful service!

Sustained – Mariann C as the visiting teacher supervisor and Dale P as a Gospel Principals instructor.

Bishop Gardner spoke a little bit about general conference and some personal experiences while watching it and overthe last couple of weeks. He admonished us to watch Pres. Monson’s talk in the Priesthood session of General Conference.

June A was our first speaker and she told us how fabulous she feels conference is and what a great celebration happens that weekend. General Conference was first held in 1830 with 27 people in attendance, in 1924 it was first broadcast on the radio (inside Utah only), in 1947 it was first broadcast on the TV (inside Utah only), by 1953 it was broadcast on TV outside of Utah. In 1980, Pres. Kimball broadcast part of conference from the newly restored Whitmer farm, where the 1^st conference was held and 2000 found conference held in the new Conference Center for the 1^st time. June pointed out that things taught and themes spoken of haven’t changed much through the years.

June then asked, “Why do we have conference?” She found the answer in Paul V. Johnson’s talk, The Blessings of General Conference that he gave in the Oct Priesthood session in 2005. Elder Johnson pointed out that we live in challenging times full of temptations and dangers. But the Lord doesn’t leave us alone, we have the Holy Ghost, thechurch, the scriptures, parents, church leaders and teachers. We also have current, living prophets, seers and revelators and we get guidance from them at general conference.

This conference weekend June was watching her friend’s children while the parents were away. Sunday morning June was ready to feed them breakfast and then had things to keep them busy during conference so that everyone could enjoy it. Well, the morning didn’t go as planned and the children acted like children – somewhat out of control! Conference was on the TV and the choir could be heard in the background. When the children heard Pres. Monson start to speak, they stopped what they were doing and went to listen. June is grateful for a living prophet who speaks to us twice a year.

Marcia Clark sang a musical number and did a beautiful job!

Paul M was our second speaker. Paul introduced himself and told us a little about himself. He was raised in CA, served a mission to CO and is a software engineer. He was married for 35 years, has 6 kids, 9 grandkids and has been divorced for 1 year. He is living with his parents, Patriarch M and his wife. Paul loves the Lake Ward and is enjoying the great spirit here.

Paul said that we lived in a fast paced world. He told us a story about an old snail that lived in a park and took some little snails out for a walk. While out they ran into 2 turtles that attacked them, the police were called and asked the old snail what had happened. He said, “I don’t know, it all happened so fast!”

Our world is so fast paced that it can be hard to connect with the spirit. Paul referenced Pres. Uchtdorf’s talk from theSunday session of general conference, “Waiting on the Road to Damascus.” While Saul was waiting on the road to Damascus suddenly there was a bright light from heaven. Saul was asked, “Why persecutest thou me?” That event turned his life around and was a true miracle. The real miracle was in his heart and he allowed himself to receive theblessings.

What is the nature of God? We read in 1 John 4:8 that God is love. That is the connection we are looking for. We left our eternal home, where we were created by a God of love and there are no boundaries or limits to His love for us. We are here on Earth on a learning path. Paul said that love is the joy of unity, oneness and harmony. Everyone is unique and we are all trying to get back to our Heavenly Father’s home where we are completely embraced in the arms of a loving Heavenly Father.

In every situation we are free to choose how we look at it. We should seek the spirit of the Holy Ghost. We need to learn from Heavenly Father, who treats us with love, even when we grumble.

It was a great meeting, where I felt the spirit.

Brother Pinto has already left for his new job in Philadelphia. FHE will be held, for the last time, at the Pinto’s home tomorrow, April 11^th at 7:00 p.m. Come and bid the Pinto family a very fond farewell.

The new counselor will be announced and sustained next Sunday, April 17^th.

We will have light snacks, not a meal, after church next Sunday so you can stay, mingled and get to know the new counselor. We aren’t having a Bishopric Wives dinner because of the OCBC potluck dinner and fireside.

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2011-03-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

Debbie is in Colorado visiting our brand new grandson, so I will write the update this week.

There were many releases and sustainings today. Too many to get them all, so I'll mention the new callings, in no particular order:

Robin A as Ward Missionary; Erin C and June A as R.S. Teachers; Maureen C as R.S. Chorister and Family History Consultant; Roseanne W and Janice W to the Home Evening Committee; Brent W and Robin A to the Break-the-Fast Committee; and Steve K as Gospel Doctrine Class President.

Br. Pinto announced that he has accepted a new job in Philadelphia so will only be with us for a few more weeks. He and his wife, Akane, spoke in sacrament meeting. Their talks were delightful and served to remind us of what a loss it will be when they move away!

Akane spoke first and read excerpts from talks about timing and agency. Sometimes timing isn't of our own choosing, but is of the Lord's choosing and sometimes it is affected by the agency of others, who may choose differently than we wish. However, our faith prepares us for life's opportunities. Akane gave us a few words of advice. She suggested we make a list of the qualities we would like to have in a spouse. And then use that list on ourselves to develop those qualities in ourselves so that we will be ready to be a good spouse when thetime comes. She noted that we often think about what we want but forget what we need to do in order to get what we want. Akane also advised us all to look for the good in everything, especially for the good in others. We need to develop a positive attitude and outlook, and we especially need to notice (and point out) the good that is in everyone, refusing to dwell on the negative.

The Ward Choir had its first performance with our new choir director, Joyce Reid. The choir sounded wonderful and sang a very touching medley that inspired us to follow Christ and to treat others with kindness. It is great knowing that the outstanding musical traditions in our ward will continue!

Br. Pinto read his list of "What I have learned from the singles ward." This was a delightful, insightful, and often humorous list of his observations and lessons from nearly 2 years with the ward. I will not be able to repeat them all, but will pick out a few choice items to report. "The Lake Ward is full of loving, hard-working, talented members." He noted that a number of singles have not received callings in their conventional wards, and one of the main reasons they choose to attend the Lake Ward is for the opportunities to serve, though the reasons for attending are many and varied. "The priesthood is very important to single sisters" and he needs to remember to give more blessings. Br. Pinto learned that you just cannot keep up with the singles -- if you try they will wear you down! For example, the best time to catch a single at home is 10p.m., decorating for a dance ends at 2a.m., and clean up ends at 3a.m.! Br. Pinto also noted that singles like it when he kisses his wife, and we are all excited when someone no longer qualifies to be in the ward (because of marriage).

Br. Pinto's closing remarks were to note that, as members of the church, we love all people, not just those who are like us, and that attitude is exemplified no better than here in the Lake Ward.

Br. and Sis. Pinto both concluded their talks with tender testimonies of the gospel, their love for the wardmembers, and their gratitude for the opportunity of having served among them. We will greatly miss the Pintos.

Bishop Gardner

P.S. A number of ward members are working on either their initial temple recommend or renewing their recommends after a lengthy lapse. The stake offers wonderful temple preparation classes for just such occasions. The next sequence of classes begins next Sunday, March 27. They are taught by Br. Sonderegger, of the Northwood Ward. If you would like to attend, just let me know and I'll get you in touch with him.

Around the Lake Ward

2011-02-27T22:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Sabbath!

There were many releases and sustainings today, here is the list:
Released: Bob B from Fitness Committee, LaRee A as Family History Leader, Maureen C as Home Evening Leader, John W & Martine J as Ward Missionaries.
Sustained: Chris H as Ward Missionary, Cindy W as Family History Leader, Patricia M as Home Evening Leader, Carrie F as Emergency Prep Leader. Bill K will be in charge of our Ward hikes.

We had the new Relief Society speak in sacrament meeting today. When the meeting started, only Lisa P was sitting on the stand - the other 2 speakers weren't in the chapel. Donna H came in just before the sacrament and CIndy H just after the sacrament. When Lisa P got up to speak she said that she had leaned over to President Rasmussen and told him that he might need to be prepared to speak if the other 2 speakers didn't show up!

Lisa P started by telling us that she had taken a public speaking class in college and she had learned there that you never tell the audience you are not prepared. You just speak with confidence and your audience will never know. Lisa broke the cardinal rule of speaking and let us know that she had forgotten that she was scheduled to speak today. She bore a beautiful testimony, in part saying that she had no one, big reason why she believed, she just does - the gospel makes sense to her and has a balance.

Cindy H led off by saying that she was part of the OCBC council and that it was directed by President Peterson, who she has known since they were both in their late teens, and he challenged the council to talk to the singles about marriage. We need to be striving for eternal goals and marriage should be one of them. We need to be married, not just for pleasure, but because it is a commandment of God, a pattern set by God.

In John 5:1-9 it speaks of a man who had been sick for 38 years who sat by a pool waiting for an angel to ripple the water and then the first person into the water after that would be healed - but someone always beat him into the water, but he always kept coming backing hoping for a miracle. Jesus saw him and cured him by the tender mercy of the Lord.

Cindy pointed out that we are all suffering, either physically or emotionally. We build up walls, invisible but strong as bricks, around ourselves. The walls we built keep us trapped inside and keep us from growing. We must have the faith to break ourselves free. We must ask for help from above. He knows us and wants us to succeed.

We must be available for the opportunity for marriage. During a blessing about one year after her divorce, Cindy was told to pray daily to find a worthy partner. She felt like a hypocrite praying for that because she felt unworthy. So she prayed for the DESIRE to be married again. That desire came again during a baby's funeral when the mother and father clung to each other, and supported each other in their grief over the death of their child.

Striving for marriage is a hard thing. We need to step out of our comfort zones, even if it seems pointless and hopeless. The Lord knows the intent of our hearts and He will grant these things for us.

Donna H was the last speaker and expressed her gratitude for the wonderful women that she serves with in the new Relief Society presidency. She also expressed her feelings of inadequacy, but she knows that the Lord will help us when we feel that way.

Donna spoke on hope. She related a story about Elder Eyring's father, who in his later years of life held the calling of being in charge of service projects for his ward. He had bone cancer and just getting out of bed caused a lot of pain. The service project that time was weeding an onion patch and he wasn't able to kneel because of the pain, so he laid and weeded that garden, pulling himself forward by his elbows. He enjoyed the company of those around him, making jokes and laughing with them. When he got to the end of the row, he looked back with satisfaction at a job well done. That is when he was told that all of the weeds that they had just pulled up had been sprayed with weed killer and would have died within a few days anyway. They should have been pulling weeds a few rows over instead. Well, Br. Eyring just busted up laughing and said, "I didn't come for the weeds." He came because he was called to be there.

We all hope for many things in our lives, we have goals we would like to achieve. We all suffer in different ways and struggle over different challenges. But we often suffer by ourselves because our trials aren't visible.

The Lord has given us hope. A life without purpose is a life without meaning and a life without meaning is life without hope. Hope is a struggle for many of us, but it doesn't have to last long because of the gospel. Donna quoted a few scriptures: Ether 12:4, D&C 59:23 and Moroni 7:41, saying that hope comes through the atonement of Jesus Christ.

We have great potential. We need to lean on Christ, call upon Him. Life will still be a struggle, but we need to overcome them. He loves us enough to stand with us. We need to give our struggles to Him. We all have our 'onions' to deal with and maybe we are focused in the wrong area.

Donna asked us to think about what our purpose in life is. We each have a gift to give to each other - to see what magnificent spirits we are in the eyes of God. We need to embrace and help each other on this path we call life.

All of the speakers were wonderful and I really felt the spirit at church today. I always love attending church with all of you, feeling of your spirit and learning and growing together. Make the coming week a great one!

With much love,
Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2011-02-27T21:29:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, Linda P spoke on an article in the 2001 Ensign by Vaughn J. Featherstone titled Sacrament Meeting and the Sacrament. Linda pointed out that the sacrament is for all of us to repent of our sins and to renew our covenants. We all come from different backgrounds, but we all need the sacrament.

Linda suggested that we should arrive early to church and maintain the reverence of the chapel. We should talk and fellowship each other in the foyer. The sacrament is the closet we can get to the atonement.

The Law of Sacrifice needs to be understood. There are 3 types of sacrifices: sin offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings. Sin offerings. Sacrifice started with Adam and Eve and sin offerings were needed for atonement before fellowship with Christ. Burnt offerings got it's name from the smoke of sacrifice ascending to heaven symbolizing our complete devotion to God. Peace offerings signify our peace with God and our further enjoyment of that peace.

When Christ visited the Nephities the Law of Sacrifice was fulfilled and replaced with a broken heart and a contrite spirit. 3 Ne 20:8 the Savior taught, "He that eateth this bread eateth of my body to his soul; and he that drinketh of this wine drinketh of my blood to his soul; and his soul shall never hunger nor thirst, but shall be filled."

Linda ended by asking us to prepare spiritually for the partaking of the sacrament each week. We can read the scriptures, think of the past week and be in the correct mind to partake of the sacrament. The Atonement is the foundation of all things, including the sacrament. Our sacrifice is not a literal sacrifice of animals, but is a sacrifice of time, money, talents and a broken heart and a contrite spirit.

Dean D played a magnificent organ solo. We are so lucky that Dean is in our ward and that he shares his talent with us each week.

Kristin M spoke about their experience of adopting Gavin. She started out by pointing out lots of Disney stories that all have some adversary to overcome: Pinocchio, Aladdin, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast... Kristin had had the impression that someone was missing from their family. Nine years ago the Holy Ghost told her that she should approach Greg and tell him of her impressions. Greg wasn't sure, but went to the temple and then had to agree. They met with doctors and felt that was not the right way to go and realized that they should adopt again.

Kristin wanted a blessing, and she wanted an apostle to give her one. By interesting circumstances, she found herself in an elevator with Elder Maxwell and he told her that any righteous priesthood holder could give her a blessing. Kristin then wanted a particular bishop in Alpine to give her the blessing and she was going to be bold and brave enough to ask him, but the spirit told her to be still. That same Sunday morning the bishop called her parent's house looking for her father, who was in a meeting with the bishop at the church at that time, and she got her opportunity to ask him to give her a blessing and he said yes. She later learned that while in that meeting the spirit told him to call her parent's home, so he left the meeting and followed the prompting of the spirit.

Kristin told us that there is refuge in the temple and the scriptures. She gained faith and patience in the scriptures, reading about the stories of others who had to wait upon the Lord, stories of women who had had babies later in life. Kristin reminded us that the Savior will help our unbelief and make up the difference in our lives. She told us her story, but pointed out that the story is changeable to whatever our story is. Christ is there and wants to help each of us through our trials in this life.

Kristin said that all our of stories can end with a 'happily ever after.' Kristin has seen miracles, having Gavin sealed to them was one of them and she was grateful for the chance to express her gratitude to God for the many miracles in her life.

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2011-02-13T23:00:00.001-08:00

Hi All,

It was great to see you at church today. The Bishop missed out not being there – though he did enjoy the family history conference that he attended. With Kristin Moon being out of town, Br. Moon was watching the kids and he asked me to hold Gavin during sacrament meeting. With a sleeping baby in my arms, my note taking was limited, but here we go.

Christina M was released as the announcement / e-mail coordinator and Sung K was released from the FHE committee. They will be married this Saturday!

We had 3 great speakers and a wonderful musical number. Emily M played a piece on the piano for us before heading off to her Young Women’s class.

Carrie F spoke on scripture study. Earlier this month she went to the stake offices to complete her temple recommend and she met with Pres. Mortensen. He challenged her to “open her scriptures every day.” She wasn’t sure about the challenge, but that night – before she climbed in bed – she remembered the challenge and opened her scriptures. She read a few scriptures and figured she had met the challenge. The next evening she opened her scriptures again, using the ones that she had marked while attending seminary. Carrie then told us a few stories where her heart was pricked with remembrance as she turned to different parts of her scriptures. Carrie said that we can all read the scriptures and each take something different away from them. She then extended the same challenge to us that Pres. Mortensen gave to her – open your scriptures every day.

Christina M spoke on integrity. She defined it as the quality of being whole, entire or intact. It is different than being honest, which is being truthful. Christina told a story of 3 men walking through an airport, one of which was very wealthy. The wealthy man stopped and put a quarter into the slot to buy a newspaper – and then took out 3 papers and gave one to each of the other 2 men. One of them reached over and put in his own quarter saying that he wouldn’t sell his integrity for a quarter, a dollar maybe, but not a quarter. Later in the airport the wealthy man was spotted putting lots of quarter into a newspaper slot. Carrie also recounted the story of Joseph, who was sold into Egypt, and how his integrity stayed intact all through his life and his many trials – even to being able to save Egypt and his family as well.

Terry E got up and announced that he was the adult speaker of the bunch :-). Terry spoke on the Beatitudes. He said that we need to submit ourselves to God and experience the miracle of change. We need to have Godly sorrow and repent. We need to be meek and teachable. Terry also pointed out that true happiness comes when we lose ourselves in the service of others. Terry also suggested that peace comes from within our own heart.

FHE is at the church on Monday evening. Zumba is at 6pm on Tuesday and 10 am on Thursday. Dance class is at 7pm on Thursday. Next Sunday is Bishopric Wives dinner, please bring a salad or dessert to share.

Thanks for a wonderful Sabbath and I hope to see you at some of the activities this week!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2011-02-06T09:20:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Debbie was sick on Sunday so she missed the meeting. I thought I would write a brief update since important organizational changes happened.

Our Relief Society presidency and leaders were released today and a new Relief Society presidency was sustained and set apart. The outgoing leaders that were released are Kristen C, Margot N, Robin A, Amber Z, and Patricia M. In addition, Dale P was released as Employment Specialist, Dean T from the Fellowship Committee and as Activities Co-Chair, Thom Z from the Break-the-Fast Committee, and Lisa P as Employment Specialist and Ward Missionary. These people have all served faithfully and expertly. It was difficult to release them.

The new Relief Society presidency and leaders are: Donna H, president; Cindy H and Diane H, counselors; Lisa P, secretary; Visiting Teaching Coordinator, Amber Z. In addition, Barb L was called as the new Employment Specialist and Dean T was called to serve with LaRee A as a Ward Singles Representative (serving on the Irvine Stake Singles Committee).

Kristen and Donna bore their testimonies as outgoing and incoming Relief Society presidents. Tears were shed -- Kristen as she said good-bye to a calling that has been special and uplifting for her, Donna out of love to the sisters in her new calling (and, she claimed, out of fear!). Bishop Gardner (yes, that's me) told about the inspiration and feelings he felt in extending the release to Kristen, who has earned a very special place in his heart during her excellent service, and in his search to replace her with Donna. This calling for Donna was clearly inspired by the Lord. He clearly prepared her, made her available, and inspired the bishop to extend the call to someone he barely knows. Her choice of counselors and leaders was also inspired, as the bishop firmly testified, recounting the experience when he first saw the names she had chosen and felt the confirmation from the spirit.

The remainder of sacrament meeting focused around goals for the coming year, and a look back at the prior year. Br. Moon and Br. Pinto spoke and gave powerful advice and testimony of the ward, the things we accomplished the prior year, and the need to continue to press forward in love and faith. Bishop Gardner closed the meeting by accounting for our 2010 goals (we met most of them but fell short in a few areas) and presenting our 2011 goals. These goals can be seen online here:

https://docs.google.com/a/rdgardnerfamily.com/Doc?docid=0AS3zchXk_YZHZDU4N3Zoel8xNHpmZnpoNWc0&hl=en&authkey=CLzG4MkP

Unfortunately, I missed Sunday School so that the new Relief Society leaders could be set apart. I have heard from many ward members that our Sunday School classes are among the best they have ever attended, so I regret not being able to be there. In the third hour we had a combined Priesthood/Relief Society lesson (since it's a 5th Sunday) where the ward missionaries presented the Ward Mission Plan and bore testimony of the work.

Also during the third hour the Family History committee presented award certificates to the many ward members who participated in the name indexing effort last year and helped us index four times more names than our goal. Thank you everyone!

Bishop Gardner

Around the Lake Ward

2011-01-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Sabbath,

I can't tell you how grateful I am to back among you again!!! Vacations are fun, but there is no place like home!!! I truly love our ward and the spirit that I feel there. I was so touched that I couldn't sing even one word of the closing song, I read along and cried silently. I love this gospel, my Savior and all of you!

There was no ward business this week, but stay tuned. With the upcoming marriages, there promises to be some shake ups in the ward organization chart in the next few months.

Marcia R was our first speaker. She spoke about humility and how it means being meek and lowly in heart. We need to be willing to surrender our will to the Father's and follow Him, accepting being led by Him. In Alma 5:27 it asks, "Could ye say, if ye were called to die at this time, within yourselves, that ye have been sufficiently humble?" Marcia asked, "Have you been humble?" We have the power to decide what happens IN us - whether we are wiling to be humble. In Ether 12:27 it says, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." We can use this as the gateway to obedience.

Joseph Smith endured many things with humility and grace. Christ was meek and lowly in heart saying, "I can of myself do nothing," giving Heavenly Father all the credit. We, also, can use our free agency before we act by surrendering, with humility, to His will and not just submitting to His will.

David T played a piano solo, with no music in front of him. David is one gifted piano player! The music was beautiful and helped to bring the spirit to the meeting.

Chris H, who is new to the ward, told us a little bit about himself. He moved here recently from Colorado. He has 2 kids, ages 25 & 21, and he works in the medical device field. Chris spoke about forgiveness. He said that peace and forgiveness comes after one has humility. Chris used Elder Boyd K. Packer's talk, "The Brilliant Morning of Forgiveness," from 1995 while writing his talk. Chris said that repentance comes through punishment, the guilt that we inflict on ourselves. But what happens when you can't give back what you have taken or you can't mend what you have broken? Repentance is accepted by restitution and if you can't give restitution you feel hopeless.

The thought that rescued Alma was, restoring what you can't restore, healing the wound you cannot heal, fixing that which you broke and you cannot fix is the very purpose of the atonement of Christ. He will settle your accounts. Forgiveness, repentance, repair, peace and rest all come from Jesus Christ. The brilliant morning will come when you will remember your mistakes no more.

Thanks for Marcia, Chris and David for a wonderful sacrament meeting.

Just a couple of announcements:

FHE tomorrow, Jan 10th, will be held at the Pinto's home at 41 Bamboo, Irvine. FHE, for the next 4 Mondays after that, Jan 17-Feb 7, will be held at the Gardner's home, 12 Timbergate Irvine. We will be viewing the Alison Armstrong videos on males, females and relationships - one each week.

Also the Bishopric Wives dinner, normally held on the 3rd Sunday, will be cancelled this month. Instead of Bishopric Wives dinner on January 16th, we are encouraging everyone to attend the OCBC potluck at 5:30 p.m. in Laguna Nigel and then attend the fireside where Joe J. Christensen, a general authority, will be the speaker.

Make it a wonderful week!!!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-12-13T22:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Lake Ward members,

Hiro H spoke and told us about the missionaries finding him in 1980 and teaching him about the gospel. Hiro is a self described thrill seeker, adventurous and crazy! In June of 1996 he has competing in sky diving competitions. One night he was looking at the ceiling, when it changed to a movie screen and he saw 2 white angels holding his body in the air. Hiro didn't know what to make of what he had seen.

The next day he went sky diving again. He jumped out of the airplane at 13,000 feet and enjoyed the free fall until at 2,500 feet he opened his chute. It didn't open property and at 1,000 he was still free falling, started to spin out of control and he couldn't open his reserve chute. He passed out and woke up in the hospital. The doctor, Dr. Hope, did a CAT scan and said that he was okay and didn't have a broken bone in his body. The doctor asked Hiro if he had really jumped out of a plane because most people he had seen who had done that didn't live through it or had brain damage, spinal cord damage or were a vegetable.

Dr. Hope did find that Hiro had a collapsed lung and blood in his stomach. He went through 6-7 hours of surgery with 13 doctors working on him. The doctors told him that he was the 1st person to sky dive, whose chute didn't open, to survive the fall without a broken bone or a scratch on him. It was a miracle!

It changed Hiro's life completely and he realized that he needed to help others. Hiro said that Heavenly Father is with us always and is watching over us.

The Bishop was the second speaker and he gave a wonderful Christmas message titled, "Random Thoughts." Here is a link to the talk so that you can read it in its entirety. https://docs0.google.com/a/rdgardnerfamily.com/document/d/1dvOMGxR_EiuREp3x9ToSqoxaXFBtA2k-A52MCADJ8E4/edit?hl=en&authkey=CKHjnvMJ#

Remember that Christ is the reason for the season. Make time to ponder on His miraculous birth, His marvelous life and wonderful example. I testify that following in His footsteps is the way to true happiness in this life and the next. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-11-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

Debbie was visiting grandkids last Sunday so I once again am making the report. I'm late getting it done because I was traveling this week, also! There is a small chance we'll both be home at the same time at least once before the end of the year! :-)

We got a special treat in sacrament meeting this Sunday. Sister M arranged with the Westpark Ward's primary to have 6 or 8 primary children visit the ward and sing a primary song to open our meeting. The kids were delightful and sang well, but acted like, well, kids! That made the treat even more enjoyable. I saw many teary eyes in the congregation during the performance.

In Ward Business, Mark J was released as Ward Mission Leader (a change in his job situation made him no longer available) and Matthew B was called to replace him. Michael D was sustained to be a member of the Activities Committee. Scott G was sustained as the Ward PFR (in charge of building clean-up and maintenance), and LaRee A as Ward Librarian. (With the new church handbook, Ward Activities Committees were eliminated, but we have too many activities to function without one. The Bishopric is deciding how best to proceed, but until we figure it out, we'll continue as currently constituted.)

Our speakers in sacrament meeting were our new Ward Advisory Couple, Bishop and Sister S. The Ss were called by the stake to assist the Lake Ward in its efforts to transition younger singles into the ward, help build up and solidify the younger age group in the ward, and to work generally on the ward's missionary and activation efforts. Bishop S served as bishop of the singles ward for 6 years during the late 1990s so has a great understanding of the singles program. They are a huge asset to the bishopric and are a wonderful couple. I hope you all are able to get to know them.

Sister S told us a little about themselves and then spoke about testimonies. The Ss met at BYU and have been married for 43 years. They currently have 4 children and 17 grandchildren. Sis. S reported that she has been blessed with children who have all been married in the temple, are active in the church, and have testimonies of the gospel. As Sis. S thought about testimony, she realized that her testimony is her life's journey -- not just her life, but the life of her family as well. She has been influenced by ancestors, parents, and children. Sis. S's ancestors are Swedish. Her grandfather was 13 years old when his parents and baby sister all died within two months of each other, of influenza. All the children were separated and her grandfather eventually became a sheep herder in Minnesota. One afternoon he had a vision of a wall that seemed important. Years later he returned to Norway and heard the Mormon missionaries preach. He joined the church and returned to America, to Salt Lake City. There he saw the walls around the temple and knew it was the same place he had seen in his dream. Sis. S told similar stories about her grandmother and grandparents on her father's side, who knew the Prophet Joseph Smith and crossed the plains with the second company of saints to arrive in Salt Lake City. Her ancestor's testimonies have never wavered and have strengthened her own. She pointed out that her testimony has come to her usually when she has been most challenged. During those times she often visits the temple and finds peace and strength. The challenges we face in life can be harsh and difficult, but we are strengthened as we work through them and overcome. Our testimony is a guide through this journey.

Bishop S spoke about the parables of Jesus. He spoke about the three parables Christ told one after the other, in Luke 15: the parable of the lost sheep, the parable of the lost coin, and the parable of the prodigal son. At the time of Christ and for centuries before, since few could read, the Hebrews had used parables to help them remember, obtain and share wisdom, and strengthen each other. They had sayings called "mashal," whose root means to rule, to govern, or to have power. The mashal helped them rule their passions and govern their lives. Some of these mashal were recorded and became part of scripture. When the Hebrew scriptures were translated into Greek, "mashal" was translated into the Greek word "parabole," from which we have the Anglicized word "parable." In his talk, Br. S expounded on several parables and helped us better understand their context, meaning, and significance. For example, we learned that the parable of the lost sheep was in reaction to the Pharisees and scribes, whom Jesus likened to sheep who have gone astray, referring back to Isaiah's mashal, "all we like sheep have gone astray." Br. S also helped us realize that in the parable of the lost coin the coin is lost by accident and represents the "choice silver" referenced in Proverbs 10:20, which is likened to "the tongue of the just," and is thus worth searching for and rejoicing over when found. Br. S likewise pointed out how the parable of the prodigal son references Proverbs 23:19-22; 28:7. This parable also contains two smaller parables, the familiar one about the prodigal son, but also one about the elder son. Both were angry, both needed to learn to react to the father's invitation. As Jesus challenged the Pharisees regarding the elder son, we should also consider how we will react to those who have sinned and are wishing to return. And as the prodigal son, we all feel misery and sorrow in our lives but need to have the humility to repent and return. I enjoyed the wisdom and learning in Br. S's talk. He kindly shared it with me so I can revisit it and learn afresh. With his permission, I can share it with you. If you would like a copy, let me know.

Again, I was unable to attend Sunday School or Priesthood/Relief Society, so I have nothing I can report about those. However, it was a wonderful Sunday, refreshing and rejuvenating. Attendance at church has been amazing these past few weeks. I hope you are all enjoying the opportunity to meet new people and rejoice with friends.

Bishop Gardner

2010-10-31T22:50:00.001-07:00

Dear Lake Ward,

It was Stake Conference this week, so we didn't meet as a ward. Here is a wrap up of stake conference.

In the Saturday evening meeting Pres Mortensen spoke about marriage. He said that only 52% of people are now married. He quoted John 1:5, “Greater Love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” He liken that to kneeling across the alter from your sweetheart in the temple and making covenants with the each other and the Lord. He then quoted a general authority and told about how the PPI we would each have with the Lord might go in the next life. He said the questions that the Lord would ask might go in this order: How is your relationship with your spouse? Are they happy and their needs being met? How is your relationship with your children? Tell me about your service in the church. Your service in the community.

Pres. Mortensen ended with the Law of Common Consent. This is how decisions are made within the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. All 12 apostles have to agree on what is being discussed or it is tabled without any action being taken. He said that that is how it should be in a marriage. In big decisions, both need to agree or it needs to be tabled without any action being taken. He said that Beauty doesn’t happen naturally, it takes time and work.

Jordan T, a physical therapist, spoke on the benefits of physical exercise. He pointed out 4 benefits: 1. Improves self esteem and prevents depression. 2. Combats disease. 3. Boosts energy levels. 4. Generates healthy outlook on life.

Dana Murphy spoke about how to fortify our homes so that they can be like a temple for our families. She talked about how the Kirtland temple was built during their poverty and trials. She mentioned 3 ways: FHE, other family teaching moments and Love.

Pres. Rasmussen ended the evening by talking with us about a website called Mormon.org. He showed us the page that he had created. You can go to Mormon.org and search for Dan Rasmussen, Tait Eyre or Mark Mortensen.

Pres. Rasmussen told us to go and look at the site, enjoy reading others profiles and then challenged us to create our own.

On Sunday morning, Tait Eyre spoke first and said that the theme for the conference was, “I am a Mormon.” He quoted D&C 115:5-6 “Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations. And that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for defense and for a refuge.” He said that Mormons should BE 4 things:

1.      Be Optimistic.  We all have troubles, but we don’t need to be discouraged.
2.      Be Forgiving.  Believe you and other can change.
3.     Be Involved.  Throw yourself into the church, there is refuge there.  D&C 123:17, “Let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power.”
4.      Catch a vision.  The church was founded on a vision.  Visions give us the power to improve.

Then members of the stake spoke on prayer, scriptures, missionary work and temple marriage.

Pres. Mortensen spoke again on covenants. He pointed out that the Old Testament spanned 4,000 years of time and Genesis 11 was the mid-point in the time line. That the first 11 chapters of the OT cover 2,000 years and then the rest of that rather large book covers the other 2,000 years. In Genesis 17 the Lord made a covenant with Abraham. We are a covenant making people. He pointed out man is to act for himself, but that there are 3 powers: God, Satan and our own. We are enticed by either God or Satan. We are invited to God by covenants and then we are bound to him. Satan want us to sin and then by the act of sinning we are bound to him.

Pres. Mortensen spoke about the different covenants Mormons make through their life:

1. D&C 84:57 repent and remember the new covenant, meaning the Book of Mormon

2. Baptism

3. Exodus 31 Keep the Sabbath Day holy. D&C 59 We will be made holy by keeping the Sabbath holy.

4. D&C 84 Priesthood, call to come unto Him and serve faithfully and diligently.

5. Temple covenants that will enable us to return unto Him.

6. Marriage, the greatest covenant and provides the greatest safety.

The Mission President’s wife spoke and told about a plaque by the front door of the mission home with just three words, “I am willing” and a picture of Christ washing the disciple’s feet hangs above the plaque. We need to dedicate our lives tot he Lord and be willing! She ended by quoting Mosiah 2:41, “I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual.”

It was a great conference, I like stake conference more and more the older I get!

Make it a stupendous week!!!

WIth much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-10-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Debbie had a sore back from the hike in the sand Saturday night, so was not at church (she's doing fine now). That means I had to take notes and write this message. I apologize for the lack of warmth and depth that you would normally get from Debbie's write up -- and for being late!

Last Sunday was a very special sacrament meeting for me. I had been wondering for some time whether Laurie A were ready to speak in sacrament meeting so soon after her baptism and finally decided to ask her. Not long after that decision I had a wonderful chat with Melinda S and realized her story had much in common with Laurie's, so I decided to have them speak together. I was thrilled when they both agreed!

Laurie told us about her conversion to the church and bore a very sweat and simple testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel and the impact it has had on her life. Her story began when Jeannette J moved in to her neighborhood and told her that she was Mormon. Jeannette told her about the construction of the Newport Beach temple and invited her to tour it. Since Laurie had been thinking about Jeannette, she agreed to attend, and then to attend church meetings. She felt so welcomed and loved by the members that she continued to come and investigate the church's teachings. Laurie had been having health problems and needed a new kidney. She prayed for one and waited. When word came that one was available, all she could think was, "Thank you, Heavenly Father!" After taking the missionary lessons twice and receiving a new kidney, Laurie felt she was ready to be baptized. She said she has felt overwhelming love ever since her baptism and feels that "This is where I belong."

Melinda first met the missionaries 2 or 3 years ago on a street corner. She said, "I was blessed the day I spoke to the elders on a corner. Their lessons lit up my life." Meeting with members and making new friends left her with a new charge in life and let her say, "I know Jesus loves me." Melinda spoke about her respect for Joseph Smith's dedication despite persecution and said she needs to learn how to choose that which is holy, which is why we are here. (I think we all need to learn that lesson!) Melinda told us a little about her life and how she became the Cinderella to a cruel step-mother. She lost hope but cried to her Heavenly Father in her sorrow. She grew and learned to cope, and especially learned to forgive. Melinda told us that we love one another by forgiving and asking for forgiveness and closed with the testimony that, "You are an answer to my prayers -- a loving family."

Joyce R and her twin sister, Janice W, sang "Love at Home" accompanied by their mother, JoAnn U. It was a beautiful, touching musical number by a special family.

John W was the final speaker. Before beginning his remarks he told about growing up with the U's and learning how to conduct hymns from Sister U! What a fun coincidence. John chose to speak about duty. He quoted frequently from the scriptures and their admonition to learn and perform our duty. These verses are worth looking up and reading -- Ecc. 12:13, Alma 7:32, D&C 20:38+, and D&C 88. John told us that he did not learn about duty in his secular life, but that the church introduced the concept of duty to him. However, duty is not always "happy land" -- you will experience great joy by doing your duty, but it requires work! John noted that he did not learn duty from his parents, but instead learned it from the members of the church. For example, the women of the ward know their duty and set a remarkable example. Glenn F came to life when the mantle of priesthood authority fell upon him and he took up this new duty. For most of us, John pointed out, the greatest duty we have is home teaching and visiting teaching. We are the arms of the bishop and the Lord and must do His work. As the Lord has commanded, we must do good acting as agents unto ourselves and not be commanded in all things. John finished his remarks by noting that we have a duty to determine if the church is true and follow the answer that we receive. (I will note that this applies to both members and non-members of the church.)

That is my report. It was a wonderful sacrament meeting attended by many wonderful ward members and visitors. Each Sunday is just so uplifting and renewing for me. Thank you all for blessing my life.

Bishop Gardner

Around the Lake Ward

2010-10-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath,

There was some stake business, Frank M was released as the Stake Emergency Prep person and Br. & Sis. S were called as the Advisors to the Lake Ward, to work with the less active and those transitioning from the Ranch Branch. Harry H, who has moved, was released as the assistant PFR.

The Relief Society presidency spoke on service.

Kristen C quoted Matthew 25:35-40 - when we serve each other we are serving the Lord. She also quoted Mosiah 2:17 and D&C 52:40. Kristen referenced Elder Oak's talk "Why we Serve", some of the reasons were; hope for a reward, companionship, fear of punishment.... for the love of Christ. Kristen pointed out that we must serve with all our heart, might, mind and strength. The 2 great commandments are to love God and to love others. Visiting Teaching and Home Teaching are the 2 most important callings in the church, after our families. Kristen told of a talk from April conference where a postcard from a home teacher with a scripture written on it made all the difference in his life and reactivated him in the gospel. Kristen mentioned each of her presidency and the different ways they serve and what great examples they are.

Amber Z referred to Matthew 25 as well and said that she had been 'one of the least of these' at a point in her life. She was using her food storage and barely paying rent and car payment. Amber realized that if she didn't pay fast offerings or tithing that she would have enough to pay all of her bills. She quoted a verse from A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief, and said that she decided that she should keep paying and have faith. A friend connected her with someone who saved her - gave her a place to live and helped to feed her. Amber then increased her fast offerings in hopes of rescuing someone else who needed rescuing. She urged us to reach out to others who need it.

Robin A talked about how we can serve those who truly need it - you just LOVE them. She told a very touching story about her sister and her opportunity to make a blanket to line a coffin for a baby who had died. Her sister prayed about how to make it and was shown every step, including where to leave space for hinges and an envelope for letters. Robin admonished us that when we hear the spirit, we need to listen to it. We need to pay tithing and give service - then the Lord will help us. Robin was speaking with Jill L and Jill said that she wished she could visit every sister in the stake, but realized it wasn't possible. Jill said that she could focus on those you can visit, the person next to us. We can be part of heaven now, we can have and share the love of heaven with others.

Here are some interesting facts that President R shared with us at the singles forum this evening. There are 339 thirty one plus singles in the Irvine Stake, or 30% of all adults. Of those 339, 101 have current temple recommends. Here are some of the ways that we can help and reach all the singles in the stake:
-better communication
-effective home and visiting teaching
-fliers to the family wards advertising the singles events
-reps in the family wards to make sure that the singles events are well advertised
-help all to keep the temple and Christ our main focus

Make it a GREAT week!!!

With much love,
Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-10-17T21:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath,

We had 2 wonderful speakers last Sunday who spoke on "Why I believe" with emphasis on a conference talk.

Scott G referenced David A. Bednar's talk, "Receive the Holy Ghost" during his talk. Scott said when we receive the Holy Ghost it is an admonition to act and not simply to be acted upon. The Holy Ghost bears witness of all truth, he is the messenger and witness of God and Christ. The power of the Holy Ghost is for everyone. The gift of the Holy Ghost is for those who have been baptized by the proper authority. To have the companionship of the Holy Ghost we need to desire it, invite the Holy Ghost into our lives and obey God's commandments. Scott told of an experience early in his life when he first felt the spirit. Scott testified that if we live worthy and listen to the Holy Ghost we can work miracles in our lives and in the lives of others.

Jeannette J stood up and said that during Scott's talk she had taken a pen and crossed out her talk because they had the same exact talk. Jeannette told of an experience when she was a little girl and the home teacher taught her mom to drive so that she could attend church without her non-member husband. She remembers a blessing given to her and the love and blessings she felt from her Heavenly Father. Those experiences make her reflect on those who don't have the gift of the Holy Ghost. Jeannette said that we need to rescue those who aren't active in the church. She likened our knowing and feeling the love of Jesus Christ to having full cell phone coverage and then those who don't to being in the "dead zone" of cell phone service. We need to bring them in, so they get the full reception again.

Jeannette said that many of us are concerned about our loved ones and their rescue. We need to pray to know how we can be involved in the rescue. We need to use the "sandwich technique" from business - compliment, critique, compliment - but in the Mormon way - love, meat of the gospel, love.

It was a great meeting filled with the spirit!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-09-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Here is the last of my catch up before church today :-). See you shortly!

With much love,

Debbie

September 5, 2010

We had a wonderful Fast and Testimony meeting, started by Br. Pinto. He talked about searching our lives to see if our daily activities lead up to our ultimate goal of eternal life. He thanked all those who helped his family to move. He testified that in times of need, our prayers are answered by those around us – by people freely giving service to others.

Others that followed said that service is the essence of the gospel and that service is learned by example. One shared an experience of being able to help others and feeling grateful for having been able to serve. One member expressed that they have hope and peace and that they have us to thank for it. Another wondered where the power comes from to be able to go forth in faith and concluded that it came from knowing where the power came from. That’s when miracles occur, especially when serving others. Another shared an experience of talking with a neighbor about the gospel. They said that we shouldn’t be afraid to say that we are Mormon.

The last testimony talked about the time after the war in heaven. Our requirement was to come to Earth and finish the race. We don’t have to come in first; we just need to finish. Individually we can’t accomplish the race. We need to help our neighbors during the race. We need to finish together as a family and as a ward.

September 12, 2010

Laurie A was called to serve on the FHE committee. It is her first calling in the church, as she has only been a member since July 18.

Cindy W was asked to talk about a favorite conference talk, and she chose “The Blessing of Scripture” by D. Todd Christofferson. She recounted the story of William Tyndale, who was strangled and burned at the stake, whose crime was to have translated and published the Bible in English. Tyndale, born in England, sought the approval of church authorities to translate the Bible into English so that all could read and apply the word of God. When they said no, Tyndale traveled to Germany, under an assumed name, where he lived much of the time in hiding. He finished the translation, had it published and smuggled into England, where they were in great demand.

Cindy then told us 3 ways that Scriptures help us. 1. – The scriptures enlarge our memory by helping us always to remember the Lord and our relationship to him and the Father. 2. – The scriptures are the standard for distinguishing truth and error. God uses scripture to unmask erroneous thinking, false traditions, and sin with its devastating effects. 3. – The scriptures bring us to Christ, our redeemer.

Dean D spoke on conference talks as well. Instead of talking about his favorite from the past conference, he spoke about memorable ones through the years. He started with the story from Mosiah when King Benjamin gave his great address. Everyone gathered and pitched their tents with the door toward the temple. King Benjamin had a tower erected so that everyone could hear him. Then Dean paraphrased the scripture and likened it to general conference. We all gather every 6 months to listen to the prophets. Pres Grant used radio so that all could hear, Pres. McKay expanded general conference to TV, Pres. Kimball utilized satellite TV and Pres. Hinckley the internet. In October we will all have the chance to watch or listen to our leaders.

As a missionary Dean had the question, “What does a living prophet say today?” posed to him a number of times. Dean then gave us highlights from many talks through the years; Boyd K. Packer’s talk about hard things, Bruce R McKonkie’s last testimony before he died…. He then tied them all together by telling us that all the talks he had mentioned had been given during either the Priesthood or Relief Society of conference. Dean encouraged us all to watch or listen to all the sessions of conference.

Around the Lake Ward, finally :-)

2010-09-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Sorry I’ve been negligent in keeping up with the Around the Lake Ward wrap-ups. School has started which means I started back to work and life got rather crazy, starting the last 2 weeks of August. I've worked MANY 10-12 hour days, and Saturdays. I finally feel that I’m above water again, so I’m going to try to go back and do the wrap-ups that I missed. I will send out the weeks that I've missed over the course of this week. Our meetings are just too good to miss!!!

August 29, 2010

The only ward business was that Sung K was called to the FHE committee.

Erin C was the first speaker and she started off by telling us about a survey of American’s knowledge about Mormons. They had quite a few misconceptions. As the public affairs person for our ward, she posed the question, “What can we do to improve our image?” A couple that she mentioned: develop relationships with others in our area and become involved with events in the community. We can change people’s perception one program, one event and one contact at a time.

55% of Americans responded to the survey saying that they had never met a Mormon. People have a fear of change, of things new & different. WE need to build a better image of the church by letting others know we are LDS. Erin gave us some talking points from Elder Ballard: facts, faith, family, fruits of our labor. When talking with co-workers about weekend activities, don't exclude Sunday events. Stop feeling guilty – live the gospel and let others know that you are Mormon.

We also need to change our “Mormon Speak.” We aren’t understood by others. Erin gave a great example of when she was working in another country and had a Chinese interpreter helping with ‘theater speak.’ The Chinese person didn’t know ‘theater speak’ and so he wasn’t much help as an interpreter. Erin used a lot of gestures to communicate . Erin ended by inviting us to be involved in good causes outside the church to help improve our image.

Sung K talked to us about prayer and fasting. He said that he must need to learn about that topic, because the last 2 talks he has given in church have been on the same topic. Sung said that fasting and prayer is the most important thing that can happen for personal change. He said that for a long time he went through the motions and didn’t eat, but didn’t have the spirit of fasting. At one point he had to choose between fasting or engaging in another activity. He realized that he needed to put certain things first. Sung reminded us to pay fast offerings and to pray with a purpose. We will then feel the love of God and put His things first.

Sung said that for years he was in a static state of fasting. But when he started really fasting, he began to change. He now has a testimony of the power of fasting with real intent. It builds faith. We need to set ourselves in order and then start really fasting. If we do that, we will naturally start reaching out to others in thought and fasting.

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-08-22T22:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath,

I am so glad to be back in Irvine and be able to attend the Lake Ward with you today! Here is a wrap up of the goings on today.

Martine J, John W, Scott M were all called to be ward missionaries. There were 2 members released from callings; Jeanette J from the Fellowshipping committe and Beth B from the FHE committee.

Jillian T gave a wonderful talk today. She pointed out that we all make determination of others all the time. She told a story of when her brother was playing the part of Judd Fry, in Oklahoma, on the stage. He got into the part and grew a straggly beard and let his hair grow long. When she first saw him, she thought he looked a little scary - and he is her brother! She went out to dinner with him and was afraid that the people in the restaurant would judge him because of his looks. Much to her surprise, and joy, his personality came through his exterior looks and everyone accepted him. Jillian pointed out that we are all God's children and we need to treat each other as such. God looks not on the outside, but on the heart and we need to do the same thing. Sometimes we criticize others, and ourselves - Satan preys on our weakness. Jillian reminded us that if we don't see ourselves as God's children, how could we see others that way. She ended her talk by reading Moroni 7: 15-16 where Moroni tells us that "it is given unto you to judge, that ye may know good from evil."

Tim C's exultant talk was on the blessings of temple attendance. The word temple literally means House of the Lord. Tim told us about the various temples that have been built, starting with Moses' portable temple, Solomon's temple, with it's unparalleled quality and pointed out that there were no temples on the earth after Christ's death until the Kirtland temple was built in 1836, except for the temple built by the Nephites. Tim quoted 1 Peter 4:6 where it says, "For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit", pointing out the need for temples so that we can do the saving ordinances for the dead. Temples are places of covenants and promises. All the workers, inside and out, are volunteers. Temples are a place where we can escape the mundane and see our lives in an eternal perspective. Our salvation is linked to our ancestors, we can't be sealed and saved without them. As we emulate the pattern of the Savior and give service to those who are dead, we save ourselves.

In Gospel Doctrine we talked about Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. There are lots of precious truths found in those books and we read quite a few through both books.

In a combined Relief Society & Priesthood meeting, Kristen C taught a lesson based on Sister Beck's talk. The quote that Kristen drew from was, "We know we are successful if we live so that we qualify for, receive and know how to follow the Spirit." We spoke about those 3 points; 1-qualify for, 2- receive, and 3-know how to follow the spirit. It was a great lesson with lots of participation.

Thanks to all for making each Sunday a wonderful, spiritual feast.

With much love,
Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-07-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

We had a wonderful Sabbath Day in the Lake Ward!!! It had the best start ever with the confirmation of Laurie A, our newest member who was baptized last Sunday. Congratulation and welcome to Laurie - give her a hug when you see her :-).

Margot N bore her testimony and told us about how her niece, Nicole, came to live with her. Margot spoke about how important the church has been in her life, how it has helped through in all aspects of her life and shared her hopes that it will help Nicole as much as it has helped her.

Elder Curtis, a full-time elder from Highland, Utah, spoke next. He spoke about meeting and teaching Laurie and his excitement for her because her decision to be baptized. He said that Laurie's conversion was possible because of her immense desire to follow Christ and the friendships that had been made and nurtured by members of the church. Elder Curtis taught us out of Preach My Gospel and said that the purpose of the manual was to help others to Come Unto Christ. He pointed out that when investigators have lessons with members, the friendship and support are already there. Members can be a big help in finding those who are ready to hear the gospel and they have several resources that they can use: the Holy Ghost, the Book of Mormon, Fasting, Prayer and bearing your Testimony. He testified that we will receive more happiness as we serve others and share the gospel with them.

We were then favored with a special musical number, Faith in Every Footstep, sung by an 8 member ensemble comprised of: Amber Z, Joyce R, Maureen C, Diane H, Br. Loosli, Dean T, Thom Z and Dean D. Many thanks to all of them for a wonderful number!!!

Elder Olsen, from Clearfield, Utah, was our last speaker. He shared his favorite scripture, 3 Nephi 9:13 - "O all ye that are spared because ye were more righteous than they, will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?" He loved that Christ can heal us. We need to do 3 things to be healed; return to Him, repent of our sins and be converted. He told a story from his youth when his mom would send him down into the dark, scary (because his older siblings told him scary things about what was down there) cellar to get canned peaches. There was a light about half way down the stairs where you had to screw the lightbulb in to make the light come on and then the darkness was gone and the cellar was no longer scary. He likened repentance to turning on the light and dispelling the darkness and coming into the light.

Elder Olsen quoted another scripture, Alma 5:7 - "Behold, he changed their hearts; yea, he awakened them out of a deep sleep, and they awoke unto God. Behold, they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word." He said that we could help others to have their hearts changed and their souls illuminated. He told us to pray to know what we should do, to pray for missionary experiences. God knows what needs to be done and He will help us. We just need to ask and then act upon the promptings that we receive.

Priesthood and Relief Society combined today, it was held in the chapel and taught by Glenn F. He used a talk, The Power of the Priesthood, given by President Packer in the Saturday session of the April conference. It was a great lesson, filled with good discussion and wonderful quotes.

Please remember June A's mom in your prayers. She has recently had surgery and has a blood clot that they hope they can clear before it does any damage.

FHE will be at our home, 12 Timbergate, on Monday at 6:00 pm. We will start with a BBQ, please bring salads, sides and drinks to share, and then we will work on indexing. Please bring a laptop if you have one. We have a few computers at our house and people can take turns and learn how easy, and fun, it is to do.

The stupendous Single's Conference is this coming weekend, if you haven't signed up yet it isn't too late. Details on the website.

Make it a WONDERFUL week!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-07-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath,

It has been a great Sunday for me, I felt the Spirit very strong through out the meetings! Let me tell you about church today.

In ward business, the releasings were: Diane R from the FHE committee, Thom Z as a ward missionary and Kip N as co-teacher of the Gospel Essentials class because she is moving to Florida with her daughter's family for a year. We sustained Jillian T as the 30s Sunday School teacher and Christina M as a Relief Society Teacher. With Laurie A's baptism coming up next Sunday, the Bishop spoke about missionary work and has asked the speakers for this month to talk about their conversion to the truthfulness of the gospel - whether a convert or born into the the church. The Bishop said that the ward council has decided that the Lake Ward should support a missionary from the Irvine Stake that has put in his papers to serve a mission. So if you would like to contribute help for a missionary, include the money on your tithing slip and be sure to put it in the "ward mission fund" line. The ward will also be reading Preach My Gospel in 90 days together in the fall and using lessons from that in Priesthood and Relief Society.

Glenn F bore his testimony about his conversion. His parents are Buddhist and don't believe in a God, but he told a story about when his father had left his wallet on top of the car and drove off. He was really concerned about it when 2 young men with name tags knocked at their door and returned the wallet, asking nothing in return - that was Glenn's first encounter with the Mormons. Glenn was invited to to attend a fireside with a newly baptized friend where he heard about Christ visiting the Americas and said that that made sense to him, why would Christ only visit a small part of the world and people. He attended a Sunday school meeting where the teacher said that during sacrament meeting he had felt prompted to change the lesson and was now going to talk about what it takes to be happy. Glenn said that he sat there and knew that the lesson had been changed for him. He has been a member for over 20 years now.

Robin A spoke about being born into the church and how her testimony grew step by step, coming to the state of conversion. She told about being 30 and living in the Bay area, frustrated and feeling on the outside of her friendships. She prayed and was told to to use the information that she already had, find a new friend and be a true friend to that person by serving them and thinking more about them than about yourself. She was instantly happy and her old friends now wanted to be with her because she was outward focused instead of inward focused. She admonished us to have faith and trust in the Lord.

Dean D graciously played an organ solo after being asked to do so during Robin's talk! He did an amazing job of playing Sweet Hour of Prayer. It is wonderful to have such talented people in the ward who share their talents so willingly!!!

Martine J was our last speaker and told us that today was the 2nd anniversary of her US citizenship! Martine told us about when she was married to her first husband and they were living with his family and when she wanted some peace, she would climb over the back fence and sit in a quiet garden that was there - it was the landscape of a stake center!!! She read us part of her journal and told us about having all 6 missionary discussions within one week, with the mission president, zone leaders and stake president attending different lessons! She wanted to be baptized, but couldn't swim and had a fear of being under water. Martine only trusted one person to baptize her and his wife told her not to worry, that it would be the best place to die! Martine also bore testimony about priesthood blessings, that they weren't from the person giving the blessing, but from Heavenly Father. She told us that her true conversion came through prayer. She read Mosiah 18:30, about the Waters of Mormon and said that she found her own Waters of Mormon in Juno, Alaska.

In Sunday School, taught by Linda P, we read and talked about King Solomon in I Kings. How Solomon started out humble, gained great wealth, built a beautiful temple and an even bigger house. We discussed his decision to marry outside of the covenant and how those wives turned his heart to the worship of idols and false gods.

In Relief Society, taught by Maureen C, we had a lesson about Christ and the atonement. How it is necessary for our salvation, that Christ was the only one who could atone for our sins and how the atonement makes it possible for those who have faith in Christ to be saved from their sins. There was a beautiful parable in the lesson that helped us to understand justice and mercy.

As you can see, it was a wonderful Sunday!!!

Next Sunday, after the block, will be the Bishopric Wives dinner. After the dinner will be Laurie A's baptism and after the baptism we will enjoy dessert. We hope that all will be able to attend all these wonderful events. I'm hoping that people will bring desserts for all to share next Sunday - I have the rest of the dinner under control!

Make it a wonderful week!!!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-06-29T22:15:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

We had a wonderful Ward Conference on Sunday. During the ward business, Mark N was released from activities committee (because he was married on Saturday), Marcia C was sustained as the communication specialist and Erin C was sustained to oversee the outreach communication efforts.

After the sacrament, Laurie A bore her testimony and told us of her upcoming baptism on July 18th. She spoke wonderfully and brought much excitement to the ward.

The Bishop and President Rasmussen were our 2 speakers at ward conference. The Bishop spoke about his reflection on the past year and a half as Bishop with peace and satisfaction that the ward had done well. He reminded us about his first few weeks being Bishop and the urgency he felt to 'grow the ward.' He then gave us 4 reasons he felt that we needed to grow the ward.

1. Build critical mass

2. So we would have enough members to carry out the responsibilities; temple assignments, service, reach out to others, help those with special needs, touch the inactives...

3. Show the church that our ward model is a good one for the singles in the church, that it is an effective way to serve singles.

4. Rescue and help the many singles in the area who struggle and stray.
(Click here for the full text of the bishop's talk.)

President Rasmussen spoke on the The Family: A Proclamation to the World. He read from the document and spoke about how it was eternal and applicable across all wards. He encouraged us to study the proclamation and to look for principles that apply to the Lake Ward and our individual growth and search for happiness. Pres. Rasmussen talked about how we knew and worshipped God before we came to this earth. Our objective in this life is to become like the Savior, to interact and serve others as He would. Pres. Rasmussen said that he loved that the Lake Ward was always willing to step up and help the stake in whatever way was needed.

Pres. Rasmussen then asked, "If an ideal mate was delivered to you on a platter today, would you be ready?" He pointed out that the Lake Ward provides an opportunity for us to work on things that need working on. Happiness is only possible when it is founded on Jesus Christ, so found yourself on principles of the gospel. He told us that there are hundreds of others that could grow with us, if we are willing to help find them and help them back to activity. He asked us to prayerfully take it to the Lord, to support the Bishop, to help grow the ward and it will make you closer to the Lord.

Br Kennedy gave a great Sunday School lesson on David and Bathsheba. We discussed that even the best of us can fall and what kinds of things we can do to avoid temptation. We had a lively discussion with lots of input from many people.

Ruth Ann E gave a wonderful Relief Society on Sis Beck's conference address about acquiring personal revelation. The quote she put on the board was, "The ability to qualify for, receive and act on personal revelation is the single most important skill that can be acquired in this life." Ruth Ann quoted 2 Ne 32:3, "Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the wards of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." She touched on patriarchal blessings and the importance of receiving one and then studying it to receive personal revelation.

In Priesthood Meeting, Bob B was sustained as the new Elders Quorum Secretary and Harry H was sustained as the new sacrament coordinator. Pres. Mortenson taught the priesthood lesson. He spoke about the story of Gideon and the selection of his small army. In particular, he pointed out that those who were selected were masters of themselves and their passions, able to pay attention to dangers around them instead of giving in to their bodily needs.

It was a wonderful Sunday, filled with the spirit!

Monday's FHE was well attended and we had fun finding out a little more about those in attendance, had a great spiritual thought given by Beth B, followed by a fun game and finishing off with socializing.

Don't forget that this Friday is Restaurant Rush at the Panera on Barranca and Culver at 6:30, followed by games at our home (12 Timbergate Irvine, CA 92614) around 8:00. I hope you can join us for either one of both of these fun activities.

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-06-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

Debbie is in Utah with our youngest son on a temple tour. He is heading to Argentina on his mission in a few weeks so the two of them went to see how many temples they could visit over the weekend. Their goal is 8 temples in 3 days (Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday)!

So, I will try to fill in and provide a tidbit about what is happening in the ward this week.

Last Monday we had a great barbeque at our house. It got hectic so we didn't get an exact count, but we think about 50 ward members and friends came to visit! It was wonderful. We had originally planned on 8 to 10 but then started hearing there would be quite a few more, so we scrambled to make sure we'd have enough food. Thanks to the generosity of so many who came, there was plenty of food for all. We had an absolutely wonderful time. I sure enjoy seeing so many people come together to socialize and strengthen friendships and I so enjoy your warm friendship with us.

Friday was Restaurant Rush and Game Night. We ate at Ruby's on the pier then had games at our house. Because it got somewhat late, quite a few who went to Ruby's were unable to make game night, but quite a few showed up for game night who hadn't been at the restaurant! Two almost completely different crowds, but still delightful.

Saturday was an outstanding event for the Relief Society sisters. They held a "Spring Cleaning and Get Organized" event at Kristen C's home. It was extremely well attended and I heard numerous rave reviews -- especially of the "Kristen closet tour" where Kristen showed off her cleaning and organizational skills to many! I was tempted to crash the party, but decided I'd better leave it for the Relief Society sisters, so I can't report on the details, other than to repeat the phenomenal reports of an outstanding evening.

Today in Fast and Testimony meeting we heard from many brothers and sisters. Pres. Rasmussen visited so those in attendance crowded into the center section in a show of support for our stake president. I believe almost every row was full, it was quite a sight to behold. We heard testimonies about the wonders of reading the scriptures, the importance of attending the temple, the power of the atonement, how the Lord answers prayers, the joys of genealogy work, the value of free agency, and the beauty of letting your light shine to the world. I was uplifted and edified by all that was said.

I'm afraid I was unable to attend Sunday School or Priesthood/Relief Society, so I can't report on them, but I heard nothing but positive reports (as usual). Br. Pinto reported that the 30s group spoke about how a number of them had been rescued from inactivity by the outreach of loving, caring individuals, inspiring them to reach out to others in their rescue efforts. Next Sunday after church they will be making individual visits to people in the area, which would be a wonderful activity to participate in if you are looking for a way to impact those around you.

Break-the-fast was delicious and well attended, as usual. Beth had placed a list of questions on each of the tables to help people break the ice and get to know each other a little better. I understand this was well received by many as a simple, non-threatening way to help people get to know each other. Reports I heard indicated that at many tables almost no one knew each other (because of all the visitors) and this little touch from Beth was instrumental in fostering conversation and building friendships.

Don't forget the ward activity on Saturday -- meet at 5pm at the church and be an Iron Chef! Janice embarrassed the bishopric by making us wear chef hats as she announced the activity before we broke for Sunday School. As we donned our hats, I was thrilled to see many in the audience also don chef hats! Lots of enthusiasm and clever advertising! With that much cleverness, you just know the activity will be outstanding!

Wonderful new things are happening in the ward, in addition to the usual atmosphere of love and a desire to become closer to the Lord. In fact, rumor has it that next week we'll finally have a new Priesthood Quorum Presidency set apart! It's an exciting time to be a part of the Lake Ward.

Much love and support to all of you,
Bishop Gardner

P.S. I forgot to mention FHE tomorrow and it's going to be so outstanding that it deserves special mention. We are meeting at Laguna Beach at 7pm tomorrow (Monday) for beach volleyball, walks on the beach, and treats at the nearby shops. It should be an outstanding event that you won't want to miss.

Around the Lake Ward

2010-05-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Hope you are all enjoying the Memorial Day weekend!!!

Today we had a real youth speaker. Emily M spoke to us about her favorite scripture story, the 2,000 Stripling Warriors. Then she told us a story from her life where she was having trouble with her friends and she asked her mom what to do. Sister Moon told Emily to pray about it and she got the impression to find new friends and now all is well. Emily pointed out that we, like the 2,000 Striping Warriors, need to listen to our moms :-).

Thom Z started his talk by asking, "Why are you here in the Lake Ward?" A few of his possible answers were; a quiet sacrament meeting, less questions about being single, free food... But he suggested that people attended the Lake Ward because they were looking for friendship. He went on to speak about friendship and charity - we need to love each other AS Christ loved. Thom stressed that we should strive to be kind to each other and make new friends within the ward.

The Bishop and his wonderful wife performed a violin / piano musical number titled Adoration.

Amber Z spoke on gratitude, saying that gratitude would fill us with light, love and happiness. She said that a grateful heart is the beginning of greatness. Amber asked us when was the last time that you thanked your parents for raising you and if they had already passed, thank Heavenly Father for your parents and He will pass it along to them. When was the last time you thanked Heavenly Father for everything He has given you? Where there is gratitude there is humility. When things get tough and hard, think of your blessings.

In Sunday School Linda P taught a wonderful lesson on Naomi, Ruth and Boaz from the Book of Ruth and Hannah from the first chapter of 1 Samuel. Linda had great insight, wonderful questions and drew out great discussions.

Beth B and Kip N taught a great combined RS/Priesthood lesson on getting to know each other. Learning how to be friendly, outgoing and kind to each other. They had us do some activities to get to know each other and open up a little bit. The Bishop said that he has asked Beth and Kip to help everyone in the ward get to know each other better. We ended the day with some delicious strawberry short cake. Thanks to all for helping to make today a GREAT Sabbath :-)!!!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-05-27T22:51:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Sorry I haven't been on top of doing an Around the Lake Ward for the past couple of weeks. We've been traveling and had LOTS of company.

On Sunday there were a few changes; Beth B was released from the Activities Committee and Mariann C was released from the Relief Society Weekday Committee. Barb L was called to the Relief Society Weekday Committee and as a Visiting Teaching Supervisor and Leanne A was called as a Website Editor.

We had 2 great talks given by the Bishop and his wonderful wife. I spoke on impressions I'd received in the temple; man is to be happy and have joy and it isn't good for man to be alone. I gave 3 personal stories of people; my sister who was always happy, a teacher who was never happy and my daughter who was unhappy and when it was pointed out to her, she changed. A sign that I have at work says, "Attitude is everything, pick a good one." I then spoke briefly about dating - that everyone should date frequently and date many people. Dating doesn't have to be expensive; be creative. Go for a walk on the beach, a picnic in the park, the dollar movies, play games, watch the sunset and talk.... I challenged the men to ask someone out during the month of June. Margot N favored us with a beautiful piano solo!!!

The Bishop spoke on the priesthood and how important it is that the brethren in the ward honor their priesthood and make use of the awesome power that Heavenly Father has given us. He encouraged the men to remember his advice from 6 months ago to become more healthy, take care of their appearance, and improve their temporal situation. He then encouraged all those who don't have a current temple recommend to work to obtain one and those who have one but haven't attended lately to be more diligent. He ended his talk by reminding the brethren that the priesthood power that they hold is the very power by which God created the heavens and the earth, so clearly it has the power to change lives.

Family Home Evening on Monday, May 31st will be a BBQ at our home. We will be eating at 4:00 p.m. All are welcome, but please RSVP so we know how many to cook for. Please bring a salad, dessert or drink to share.

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-05-09T18:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Sabbath!!!

The Moons are back in town with their newly adopted son, Gavin Thomas - who is the newest hit in the ward :-). Gavin was 9 lbs 2 oz, happy and healthy and Kristin is delighted to share him with others.

We had a few releases and sustainings. Releases were: Yadira C as the 3rd counselor in the RS presidency and Mariann C from the RS weekday committee. Lauren S was sustained to the fellowshipping committee.

Martine J spoke on motherhood and mentioned mothers from each of the scriptures; the Old Testament says to honor your father and mother, Mary from the New Testament, the 2,000 Stripling Warriors and their mothers from the Book of Mormon, Emma from the Doctrine and Covenants and Eve from the Pearl of Great Price. Lauren S, new to our ward, spoke on mothers and service and said that public service is our rent for our place here on this earth. Lauren also retold the story of the statue of Christ that was damaged during WWII and was left with no hands and now bears a plaque that says, "We are His hands." Randy S and Marcia R did a flute/piano duet of Love at Home that was beautiful!!! Bob B spoke and told 2 stories; one about a quadriplegic who didn't let his disabilities stop him or get him down. The story was of a friend who has been dealing with depression and tried to end her life, but a friend happened to stop by and get her help. He said that he gave her a jar and a bunch of marbles and told her that she was to think of the good in her life and put a marble in the jar for everything good thing she could think of. Bob pointed out that we each have lives with the jar half empty and the jar half full and it all depends on what we choose to think about and focus on as to whether we see the good or see the bad.

Eric S did a great job of teaching the Sunday School lesson on "Beware Lest Thou Forget" on Deut 6,8,11 & 32. It was stressed that we should build upon the Rock of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Relief Society lesson, on prophets, was wonderfully taught by Mariann C. Here are a couple of my favorite quotes from the lesson:

“The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford Woodruff [2004], 199).

If we obey, the Lord promises, “The gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory” (D&C 21:6). When we do as our prophet directs, blessings pour down from heaven.

Make it a GREAT week!!!

With much love,

Debbie

P.S. I feel badly that I don't get to report on the Gospel Essentials, 30-year old Sunday School, Family History or Priesthood, so I will gladly accept other's reports or I might attend the other classes every so often myself :-).

A few calendar items - to see the more items or more details, check out the website, asingleplace.com and click on the "activity list" link on the right hand side.

Family Night, May 10 at 7:00 at the Pinto's

Dance Instruction, May 13th at 7:00 at the Bryan building

Irvine Stake food storage cooking class - on rice, May 15th at 9 am in the stake center - taught by Br. Wong

OCBC dance, May 15th at 8:30 in Anaheim

Around the Lake Ward

2010-05-03T21:56:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Sunday was Fast Sunday and we enjoyed hearing the testimonies that were borne. The Bishop started by sharing about his experiences about being stuck in Ireland, because of the ash cloud, and trying to get home to speak in church (which he missed) and then attend our son's college graduation (which he made). The Bishop shared 3 ways in which he has received revelation and the different ways they come and how different they feel. Br. Pinto ended the meeting by speaking about his opportunity to attend a special training on Saturday (for 5 hours) for Stake Presidencies and Bishops from 9 stakes, led by Elder Dallin H. Oaks, one of the Twelve Apostles. Steve O bore his testimony and bid us farewell, as he is moving back to Utah.

We had three new members welcomed into our ward. We even had enough people filled in on 2 rows that the sacrament was able to to be passed along the entire row!!!

Priesthood was taught by Marcia C. She spoke to the men about personal appearance and manners and the impact that they have on women.

Relief Society lesson was on prayer and was taught by Jillian T, a new member of our ward.

Break the Fast was delicious, with a Cinco de Mayo theme. Thanks to Ann P and her WONDERFUL committee!!! Thanks also to the AMAZING men who helped do the dishes and clean the kitchen after the meal!!!

Make it a GREAT week!!!

With much love,

Debbie

There are LOTS of things happening this week, so here goes.

Tuesday, May 4th, 3:00 - 9:00 pm

Stake Blood Drive. You can sign up online at www.redcrossblood.org - sponsor code ldsirv. I'm guessing that they won't turn you away if you just show up :-).

Wednesday, May 5th, 5:45 pm

Lake Ward Cannery Assignment. It is our turn, as a ward, to fill all the orders for rice from our stake. We need 30 volunteers to make everything work smoothly. Come and join us in the fun - hairnets are involved :-).

Thursday, May 6th, 7:00 pm

Dance Instruction by Martine J. This is an ongoing class for all singles at all levels of dancing ability, taught in the Bryan building - 5353 Bryan Ave.

Friday, May 7th, 6:30 pm

Restaurant Rush and Game Night. We will meet at El Cholo, 5465 Alton Pkwy, Irvine. After dinner (usually by 8:00), we will head over to the our home, 12 Timbergate Irvine, for games, fun and friends. Come and join us and bring a friend or two!

Saturday, May 8th, 9:00 - 12 noon

Mormon Helping Hands. We will work with "Back to Natives" to spruce up the Mason Regional Park. Pre-registration is required. Hey everyone, I was given some info that we all need to accomplish before Saturday. There's more to fill out and we ALL have to register on-line: Everyone can still sign up:

1. Register on-line ASAP at www.ocparksforms.com/newvolunteer/ (if you haven't already done so). They will not accept unregistered walk-ins the day of the event. I tried, but can't do it for you. Sorry.

2. Sign and bring both the "Back to Natives" waiver and the "OC Parks Volunteer" waiver. Those under 18 must be signed by a parent or guardian.

3. Wear closed toed shoes (no sandals/flip flops/etc.)

4. Bring a re-useable water bottle.

5. Wear a hat/bring sun screen.

6. Bring outdoor gardening/work gloves.

7. Meet at the Stake Center at 8:30 AM to carpool to Mason Park--We have to car pool there, so meet at the Stake Center, we'll pile in as few cars as we can.

Sunday, May 9th, 4:30 pm

Lake Ward Book Club. Margot N's home, 2970 Corte Hermosa, Newport Beach. This month's book is "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett. All are welcome. Please bring food to share. Visitors are welcome!

Please mark you calendars for these future events:

Saturday, May 15, 9:00 am

Food Storage Cooking Class. Brother Wong will teach a class on how to use the rice that you have stored.

Saturday, May 15, 8:30 pm

OCBC Dance Party in Anaheim, Loara building.

Saturday, May 29, 5 - 8pm

Lake Ward RS Activity and Dinner - Spring Cleaning and a 'House of Order'. More details to follow :-).

Sunday, May 20, 4:15 pm

Lake Ward Healthy Living Discussion Group. We will be discussing Dr. Amen's program "Change your Brain, Change Your Body" aired on KOCE. Go to www.KOCE.org to search for local times. More details to follow!

Around the Lake Ward

2010-04-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday!!!

Church today was wonderful.

In ward business, Carrie F was released from the Family History Committee, thanks for all your efforts in that calling! Lorette B was sustained as the Relief Society Weekday Activities Coordinator.

Bishop and Sister Lutz were the speakers, with the choir singing, "There is a Green Hill Far Away" as the musical interlude.

Sister Lutz spoke on her favorite topic, dating and marriage. She used Genesis 24 as the basis for her talk, which tells about Abraham sending his servant to find a wife for his son, Isaac, from his home land. Sister Lutz said that she found 10 steps that could be followed:

1. Genesis 24:3 Choose only from those who share your same values and goals. Search for the ideal, choose only one who can join you in the temple.

2. Genesis 24:7 Go to the Lord in mighty prayer. Pray that the Lord will send angels before you to prepare the way for your marriage to happen. Be specific in your prayers - ask for a spouse that is service oriented, has values...

3. Genesis 24:16 Be a desirable spouse - do what it takes.

4. Pray mightily for help.

5. Genesis 24: 13, 14 Tell the Lord what you are looking for in a spouse. Notice that the servant doesn't ask for beauty, but one who serves. Yet also notice that she was beautiful.

6. Ponder, wait and watch so as not to be too hasty. Don't pick china patterns after the 1st date.

7. Genesis 24:27 Be in the way, be engaged in your search, go to all activities, be involved in service.

8. Rebecca was a servant. Learn to place yourself second and others first.

9. Genesis 24:26 Express thanks continually. Thankful for a date, thankful for the ability to lose weight or overcome weakness.

10. Genesis 24: 55 - 58 Be ready to leave. Make the leap of faith.

Bishop Lutz spoke about "believing in marriage" and the need to have hope. He also spoke about his time serving as the Bishop of the single's ward. How they loved it and were sad to be released. He also related how he quickly learned that he needed to seek the spirit while performing his duties as the Bishop. Bishop Lutz also complimented the ward on what outstanding people there are here. He counseled the members to seek the Lord and to let Him speak to them.

The Priesthood/Relief Society lesson was on Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and the Fall. Here is a quote: Wisely Discerning - Eve had the capacity to weigh choices and act in ways that supported the ultimate design of God for His children. When she was "beguiled" by Satan to partake of the forbidden fruit, she realized that the consequences of transgressing would be in the best interests of her children - she being "the mother of all living" - for they could not "live" in the eternal sense unless the plan of happiness were enacted. She therefore used her God-given agency in wisdom - for the Lord had extended that privilege, even though it had explicit consequences: "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it, nevertheless, thou mayest choose for thyself, for it is given unto thee; but, remember that I forbid it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Moses 3:17). In careful consideration of what was at stake, Eve made the conscious decision to partake of the fruit (see Moses 4:6-13). As she later described her position with respect to this decision - having learned of the great plan of salvation from the Lord - Eve articulated her profound insight in the form of a glorious pronouncement: "And Eve, his wife, heard all these things and was glad, saying: Were it not for our transgression we never should have had seed, and never should have known good and evil, and the joy of our redemption, and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the obedient" (Moses 5:11).

Looking Forward:

Monday evening, April 12th, Family Home Evening will be at the Pinto's, 34 Japonica - key code: "key", "key" 2593. It will be the kickoff for our ward's Family History Olympics - a friendly competition between the men and the women to see who can index the most names this year!

The Irvine Stake play, The Errand, will begin this week. Shows are April 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24 (all shows 7:30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on April 24th). For info and tickets, check the website: http://errand.irvineproductions.com.

Br Wong's wonderful Food Storage Cooking Class will be held on Saturday, April 17th at 9:00. This month will be about The Wonders of Wheat.

Sunday, April 18th, there will be lots of activities:

Bishopric Wives dinner at 4:15pm

OCBC potluck dinner at 5:00pm in Buena Park building - 7600 Crescent Ave

OCBC 16-stake quarterly devotional at 7:00pm, also in the Buena Park building,

featuring President and Sister Miller speaking about "The Church in Haiti"

The Irvine Stake Temple Day will be on Wednesday, April 21st. Sign up are going around Priesthood and Relief Society, or call the temple and set up your own reservation, 949-644-1820.

Dance instruction, by Martine J, on Thursday, April 22nd at 7pm in the Bryan building. No sign-ups, come as often as you can. Contact Martine.

Family History Musical Fireside featuring The Latter-Day Ambassador Choir will be held on Saturday, April 24 at 7pm in the Cypress Stake Center, 5151 Orange Ave and on Sunday, April 25th at 7pm in the Irvine Stake Center. "Once you see this most powerful fireside, you will never look at family history the same ever again. This fireside has changed the way members look at and how they feel about the work they do in the temple."

Lake Ward Healthy Living Discussion Group will be held on Sunday, April 25th at 4:15pm in the Relief Society Room. This group is designed to bring people together to help each other attain their health goals. Contact Leanne A.

Congratulations on making it to the end of a very long e-mail :-)!!!

Make the week a wonderful one!!!

With much love,

Debbie

Around the Lake Ward

2010-03-29T20:47:00.001-07:00

Blast from the past week:

Dean D was sustained as the new executive secretary - now we need a new Priesthood Quorum President. Matthew B was sustained as a member of the Fellowshipping Committee and Rick F as a member of the Activities Committee with a focus on OCBC. The Stake sustained Cindy H as a Stake OCBC Representative. During sacrament meeting, testimonies were shared, hearts touched and our ward strengthened. Thanks to those who voiced their testimonies this month and remember the Bishop's challenge to share yours sometime this year in any setting of your choosing.

Thanks to Martine J for her continuing dance instruction every 2nd and 4th Thursday in the Bryan Building.

We had a wonderful evening in the temple on Friday evening with 15 ward members attending. It was great to be in that special place with people that we love.

We had an "Eggs"-cellent "Eggs"-stravaganza for Break the Fast thanks to the marvelous Anne P and Break the Fast committee. Thanks to those who brought food to share. It is a nice time to share food and friendship!

Be sure to check out the Healthy Living Discussion Group that meets every 4th Sunday. It will help in obtaining support and motivation for your own personal fitness goals.

Looking forward:

On Wednesday, March 31st the OC Mormon Choir and Symphony Orchestra will be performing the world premiere of Messiah in America, a new oratorio composed by Brett Stewart.

Restaurant Rush and Game Night will be on Friday, April 2nd. We will meet for dinner at 7:00 p.m. at The Spaghetti Bender, 6204 West Coast Highway Newport Beach, CA 92663. After dinner we will meet at our home, 12 Timbergate Irvine, CA 92614 for games. We would love to have you join us for either or both events!!!

April 3 & 4 will be General Conference. General Sessions will be at 9 & 11 on both Saturday and Sunday, with the Priesthood Session on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. You can watch it on cable TV, on the internet or at the church.

Stake Temple Day is coming up on April 21st. Please plan on attending the temple with other members of the stake.

Around the Lake Ward

2010-03-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

This is the first of what will be a weekly e-mail with a recap of the past week and a look forward into the week to come. We want to keep everyone informed and involved, so please join us in the activities when you can :-).

Blast from the past week:

FHE helped us with the Book of Mormon reading challenge, as we read and discussed Monday and Tuesday's reading together. We ended the evening with a "family counsel" as the Bishop asked everyone questions, which started a great discussion.

Women's Conference was held on Saturday with many wonderful talks and classes. Lunch was delicious with BEAUTIFUL tables set and decorated for us by members of our ward.

Fun was had by all at the well attended OCBC Dance on Saturday. Thanks to the MANY members of our ward who helped organize, decorate, prepare and serve food and clean up.

Sunday Brent W was called into the High Council. We are ever so sad to lose him as the executive secretary, but excited for his new adventures where we know that he will excel! We had 2 great talks by members of the High Council. Br. Vivanco spoke on Alma 26:12 and reminded us that the Lord is in charge, that many things are intertwined and when things go well we need to give the credit to the Lord. Br. Yost spoke about the role of the Bishop in the ward.

At FHE tonight we started with a spiritual thought, followed by a game and we finished the evening by viewing Mars, Saturn (rings and all) and the moon through the Bishop's telescope.

Looking forward:

Friday is Ward Temple Night with sessions at 6:30 and 8:00.

Sunday will be Fast Sunday (because of General Conference the following week). We will have Break the Fast with the theme being Eggs-stravaganza. Please bring food to share :-).

FHE will be at the church at 7:00 p.m. with a lesson on finance and budgeting by Marcia C.

Make the week a wonderful one!!!

With much love,

Debbie