For family home evening this week you may want to review the events leading up to the first Thanksgiving. This story talks about religious persecution, and the hopes that many who came to our country had. The lesson can then lead into things that each of you are grateful for. It is nice to have a reminder of all that we have at the beginning of the Holiday season.
You can open the lesson by reading 1 Nephi 13:11-19. This is where Nephi prophesies of the Gentiles discovering America. You can then briefly review the story of Columbus and the struggles that he faced in order to try to sail around the world. You may then want to discuss the Pilgrims, and how they were being persecuted because of their beliefs. You may want to share the story of their first Thanksgiving. After you talk about their sacrifices for their religious beliefs you may want to take the time to show gratitude as a family. You can have each family member list things that they are grateful for. You can plan to do a service project to show your gratitude as a family.
For younger children you may consider completing Thanksgiving crafts. You may also want to complete the Gratitude box in this month’s Friend. If you have youth you may want to use this Mormonad, this Idea List, and “A Grateful Heart.” If you are teaching primarily adults you may want to base your lesson on “Gratitude for the Goodness of God” and “Remembrance and Gratitude.”
You can sing “For the Beauty of the Earth” p 92 and “Before Thee Lord, I Bow My Head” p 158. From the “Children’s Songbook you can sing “For Health and Strength” p 21 and “Can a Little Child Like Me?” p 9. Remember to have an opening and closing prayer. Remember the refreshments as well!
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Family Home Evening: Gratitude
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