Since it is July 24 or Pioneer Day, it is ideal to have a family home evening honoring our pioneer heritage. The example of the pioneers speaks to all us. We can all learn from what they have done. Many converts or new members are pioneers in their own right. It is important to remember this as you prepare this lesson.
As a family you can have a picnic or go for a hike to remind yourselves of some of the conditions that the pioneers went through. You can open the lesson by telling your children that you are going to talk about the pioneers and what they have done to sacrifice for you. You can begin by sharing a story about pioneers. You may want to share a story about one of your own ancestors. If you don’t have any pioneer ancestors you may want to read “A Different Kind of Pioneer” from “The Friend” and talk about it as a family. You can also use the flannel board figures from “Remember the Pioneers” to talk about the different things the pioneers did while crossing the plains. You may want to explain that the pioneers were driven from their homes by religious persecution, and were looking for a safe place to stay. If you are looking for a fun activity you can play “Pioneer Puzzle Game.” You can also complete a “Pioneer Treasure Hunt” (you will need to scroll down the page to find this). Close the meeting by bearing your testimony about the sacrifices that the pioneers and others have made for the gospel.
If you have youth you may want to supplement the lesson by reading “Faith in Every Footstep” and “On His Own Two Feet.” There is an idea list for a pioneer party. The entire July 1997 “New Era is dedicated to the topic of pioneers.
If you are teaching primarily adults you may still want to share pioneer stories about your ancestors, and ask your audience to share some as well. You can supplement the lesson with “Modern Day Pioneers” by Janette Hales Beckham and “Following the Pioneers” by Dallin H. Oaks.
“Pioneer Children Sang As They Walked” p 214 and “Whenever I Think about Pioneers” p 222 in the Children’s Songbook are excellent songs to sing. “Come, Come Ye Saints” p 30 and “They, The Builders of the Nation” p 36 are excellent hymns to sing with this lesson. Don’t forget to play some games and to have refreshments!