Peace in the Storm; Church at Home

In the October 2018 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, President Nelson announced an adjustment to how we gather on the Sabbath, and a new focus: Home-centered Church.

"As Latter-day Saints, we have become accustomed to thinking of “church” as something that happens in our meetinghouses, supported by what happens at home. We need an adjustment to this pattern. It is time for a home-centered Church, supported by what takes place inside our branch, ward, and stake buildings.

"As the Church continues to expand throughout the world, many members live where we have no chapels—and may not for the foreseeable future. I remember a family who, because of such circumstances, was required to meet in their home. I asked the mother how she liked going to church in her own home. She replied, “I like it! My husband uses better language at home now, knowing that he will bless the sacrament here each Sunday.”

Our three hour church block was whittled down to two.  A new Sunday School course was introduced: Come, Follow Me. This is to be used while at church, but the greatest emphasis was for home study.  More home learning for individuals and families.

When it was announced a few weeks ago that we wouldn't be gathering for Church on Sundays, and to focus on Come, Follow Me and other resources, we as Latter-Day Saints we're shocked.  No church!!?  Until when? A few weeks? A few months?  Emails and other messages were sent out, telling us to study at home, use this new way to honor the Sabbath, and for families to partake of the sacrament in the home at least once a month.

Not gathering at a Church on Sunday was weird, but we were ready.  And what a blessing it was for President Nelson to announce a Home-Centered Church one and a half years ago, and for us to be prepared for changes.

A couple weeks ago my brother Michael came over to administer the sacrament to my Mom and I, and the spirit was so strong.  We felt such peace while partaking of the sacrament.

Today we have General Conference again, which happens twice a year, first weekend in April and October. It's broadcasted on www.churchofjesuschrist.org at 10:00 am, 2:00 pm, 6:00 pm Mountain Time today, and then again Tomorrow at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.  Each session is two hours.  What a blessing it is to find peace and feel the spirit.  I look forward to watching all the talks today and tomorrow. :0)