Church Readies Members on Proposition 8
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who are California citizens currently living out of the state are being organized to make phone calls in support of Proposition 8, if needed.

LDS Young Adults in Ghana Participate in Interreligious Dialogue Program
With a national election coming in Ghana, young adults from several met in Accra at Christ the King Catholic Church Hall to participate in the Second Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue Program for the Youth of Ghana.
Story and Photos by Elder John Bingham and Sister Jo Bingham — Africa Area West Public Affairs Missionaries

178th Semi-Annual General Conference —Sunday Afternoon Session
October 5, 2008
Enjoy the talk excerpts from President Boyd K. Packer, Elder Russell M. Nelson, Brother William D. Oswald, Elder Eduado Gavareet, Elder Carlos A. Godoy, Elder Quentin L. Cook and President Thomas S. Monson.

Sisters Unite to Help Those in Need
Relief Society sisters joined hands to help a shelter for homeless women and children.

Distinguished British Genealogist to Lecture at the Family History Library
Colin R. Chapman, one of the foremost British genealogists today, has lectured on British and Irish genealogy throughout the world. Now, family history enthusiasts in Utah will have an opportunity to hear him speak.

178th Semi-Annual General Conference —Sunday Morning Session
October 5, 2008
Here are excerpts from talks by President Henry B. Eyring, Elder Robert D. Hales, Bishop Keith B. McMullin, Sister Elaine Dalton, Elder M. Russell Ballard, and President Thomas S. Monson.

178th Semi-Annual General Conference —Priesthood Session
October 4, 2008
Talk excerpts from Elder Richard G. Scott, Elder Jay E. Jensen, Elder James J. Hamula, President  Dieter F.  Uchtdorf, President Henry B. Eyring, and President Thomas S. Monson.

178th Semi-Annual General Conference —Saturday Morning Session
October 4, 2008
Excerpts from all the speakers at the Saturday morning conference are included here, including Elder L. Tom Perry, Sister Silvia Allred, Elder Neil L. Andersen, Elder Marcos A. Aidukaitis, Elder Dallin H. Oaks, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf,  We include  President Monson's plea to us to pray that the nations of the world may be open to preaching the gospel.

178th Semi-Annual General Conference —Saturday Afternoon Session
October 4, 2008
Read talk excerpts from Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Elder Gerald Causse, Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge, Elder D. Todd Christofferson,  and Elder David A. Bednar.

Five New Temples Announced at Conference
Not since April 2000 have so many new temples been announced at one conference.

Temple Announced for Greater Kansas City Area
One of five new temples announced this weekend by President Thomas S. Monson will be built in the greater Kansas City area.  Here's some background and context of the area where the new temple will be built.
By Scot Facer Proctor

A Trip Down the Bayou with Mormon Helping Hands
Mormon Helping Hands just helped St. Andrews Episcopal Church after it was devastated by the hurricane.
By Nayda Easley
Photography by Aurene Mallory & Jane Horacek

Thousands to Attend 178th Semiannual General Conference
More than one hundred thousand Church members, friends and invited guests are expected to attend the 178 th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Dedication and Open House Dates Are Announced for the Draper Utah Temple
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced dates for a public open house prior to the dedication of the new Draper Utah Temple.

Arnold Friberg Book of Mormon Art Collection Displayed at LDS Mesa Temple Visitor's Center
The complete 12 piece collection of Arnold Friberg's Book of Mormon artwork is on display at the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitor's Center for a six week run. Friberg is recognized as one of the greatest master painters of modern times.

Church Welfare Program Helps People Help Themselves During Tough Economic Times
Americans are struggling with stagnant wages, rising debts and increased expenses during these tough economic times.  How does the Church help?

Temple Square Performances for October 2008
Fall is a wonderful time to come to Temple Square and enjoy the beauty of the fall colors, as well as to listen to beautiful music.

Church Assists Hurricane Victims in Haiti, Prepares to Render Aid in Texas
Two planes carrying over 47,000 pounds of supplies took to the air from Salt Lake City last  Wednesday bound for the Caribbean nation of Haiti.

Adrian Andrews Hero for Special Need Gustav Evacuees
When hospitals were evacuating for Gustav, some people had such special needs that not even the Red Cross could care for them.  Instead, one man with a vision did.
By Jileen Pratt

Recipient of Service Turns Into Service Worker
Wanda Blanton looked out into her backyard at the huge limb broken over her neighbor's fence and wondered, “What am I going to do? My deductible is too high to cover this, and I don't have the money to have it removed.”
By Nayda Easley

Membership in Utah Grows
The net growth in Utah among members of the Church is growing steadily, approaching 1.8 million or 72 percent of the population according to end-of-year 2006 statistics.

Church Focuses Aid on Next Approaching Hurricane
Each year, millions of men, women and children are impacted by war, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes and other disasters.  In these desperate circumstances, quick response is often the difference between life and death.

Book of Mormon Reaches 140 Million Milestone
The 140 millionth copy of the Book of Mormon:  Another Testament of Jesus Christ  was recently distributed, passing another milestone in the book's history.

Family History Library Offers Free Classes
In the upcoming weeks, the Family History Library is offering three new series of classes to help with your family history research.  They are Capturing Your Family History, FamilySearch Indexing, and a research series on LDS resources.

BYU Study Finds Trauma Reduces Brain and Memory
While debate continues over the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder, a new study indicates traumatic events and PTSD symptoms may be followed in some cases by a size reduction in a part of the brain called the hippocampus.

Mine Eyes and Mine Heart are in the Temple
A Twin Falls Temple Story
After a debilitating stroke, Bob King wasn't sure he would be able to serve in the temple again, let alone become a counselor in the new Twin Falls Temple presidency.
By Dana King

What You Will Find When You Step Inside a Mormon Chapel
Most first-time visitors to a Mormon church building comment on the number of rooms. Many expect to find one large interior space, such as in many other Christian denominations' buildings of worship.

Young Single Adult Conference in Siberia
In an area of the world known for cold, 225 young members of the Russia Novosibirsk and Russia Yekaterinburg Missions, with a group from the Russia Vladivostok Mission, found the warmth of special friendships and activities that they were seeking.
By Elder Lloyd and Sister Mary Royer

President Thomas S. Monson Meets with Panamanian President and First Lady
Following the Sunday dedicatory service of the Panama City Panama Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Church President Thomas S. Monson joined with other Church leaders in a Monday meeting with Panamanian President Martín Torrijos and his wife, Vivian Fernández de Torrijos.

Commentary from the Church: The Divine Institution of Marriage
In this must-read article, the official voice of the Church explains why it is so important to pass marriage protection amendments and what the implications are for society if we fail.

What Moves Mormons During Emergencies
If there is a disaster around the world—whether it be tsunami, earthquake or flood, a semi-truck or planeload of help from the LDS church will soon be on its way.

Tennis Champion and Accomplished Tenor, Jesse Holt, to perform at Washington DC Visitors' Center
Who would think that an athlete, who competed in two U.S. Open tennis championships, would also be an accomplished lyric tenor?

Mormon Olympians Ready to Compete in Beijing
Roach is a Mormon and will join a number of other members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Beijing to compete at the 2008 Olympics Games.

Individuals With Addictions Find Hope and Help
The idea for a Church-sponsored addiction-recovery program was first suggested in the 70s and 80s when substance abuse began to make headlines.  Now there are nearly 1,000 groups meeting in the United States and Canada and others in Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, England, Germany and Mongolia with about 25% of these focusing solely on pornography addiction.  Come and read more.

Family History Library to Hold Free Classes on Understanding Technology
The Family History Library in Salt Lake will be holding a series of free classes in August.  Topics include:  Understanding Technology; Netherlands (Dutch) Research; and, a free research series on Italy.  Come and read about the details.

Temple Open House — Guests See Beauty, Feel Hope
One of the more than 32,000 people who have visited the new Mormon temple in Panama City over the past three weeks, Luis Farias, says that his experience has allowed him “to renew hope.”

Benefits Trickle Down from Clean Water Project
For the children of the central African city of Luputa and nearby villages, an 18-mile-long pipe being laid near their homes means a lot more than access to clean water for their families.

Mexico City Temple Reopens after Renovation
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced on Saturday that a public open house prior to the rededication of the Mexico City Mexico Temple will take place in October and November.

Mormons Tell Their Part of Western Expansion Story
Every Wednesday afternoon, 91-year-old Katherine Kercher dons a vintage skirt and joins her neighbor Lois Roos to tell the Mormon pioneer migration story at the Museum of Western Expansion in St. Louis, Missouri.

Internet Apologetics to be Focus of FAIR Conference
FAIR President Scott Gordon will address the upcoming Mormon Apologetics conference on the vital topic of responding to critics on the Internet.  His presentation will include a brief history of Internet interaction with critics, lessons we have learned and the future of online apologetics.

The Spirit of Mormon Pioneering Lives On
Out of curiosity, Andrew Zillale stopped an American couple on a street in Tanzania, inquiring why they were in Africa. Little did he know then that this chance meeting with missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1993 would lead to him becoming a modern-day Mormon pioneer.

BYU Television to Air Pioneer Day Commemoration Concert
If you want to commemorate the anniversary of the day the Mormon Pioneers first overlooked the Salt Lake Valley, you can do so from anywhere in the world. Stay at home and celebrate it with BYU Television, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Osmonds.

Church Records Lead to Groundbreaking Genetic Research
Utah is leading the world in genetic research because of the Utah Population Data Base (UPDB), a unique combination of state vital statistics, other medical profiles and genealogical records from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Church Members Mentor in Many Fields
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a church of mentors, with every member learning and teaching as wards and stakes grow together.

Noted Expert to Speak on Book of Mormon Geography
Larry Poulsen, a noted biochemist recently retired from the University of Texas at Austin, will address attendees at the 10 th Annual Mormon Apologetics Conference Aug 7-8 in Sandy, Utah.

New Temples to Open in Panama and Idaho
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will dedicate new temples in Panama City, Panama, and Twin Falls, Idaho, this summer, bringing the number of operating temples worldwide to 128.

California Wildfires Touch Church Members' Lives
As wildfires rage through California, an LDS family sees their prayers answered even as their home goes up in smoke.
By Lisa West, Sacramento Multi-Stake Public Affairs

Geneticist to Address Joseph Smith's DNA at FAIR Conference
Ugo Perego, Director of Operations and Study Research Coordinator for the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation, will present “Joseph Smith's DNA Revealed: New Clues from the Prophet's Genes” at the Annual Mormon Apologetics conference next month.

Mormons Encouraged to Share Personal Perspectives Online
The July edition of the Ensign features an address given by Elder M. Russell Ballard, who encourages Church members to participate in the growing online discussion about the Church.

FAIR Conference to Address LDS Issues
Leading scholars and popular authors and speakers will address issues of interest to LDS faithful at the annual Mormon Apologetics Conference, set for August 7-8.

Faith Matters to NBA Champions' General Manager
The fairytale season for Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics ended in June in the best possible way — a drubbing of the Los Angeles Lakers to win the NBA championship, Boston's 17th overall, ending a 20-plus-year championship drought.

Church Addresses Polygamy Issue
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has taken steps to better inform the public about differences between the Salt Lake City-based church and the polygamous group in Texas that calls itself the FLDS.

Ground Broken for Brazil's Sixth Temple
Leaders from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints broke ground on Friday at the site of what will be the faith's sixth temple in the country.

Conservation Group Hails Church for Salt Lake City Facelift
A new report highlighting environmentally friendly projects by U.S. faith-based organizations praises The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for its City Creek Center initiative in downtown Salt Lake City.

Young Mormons Bring Relief to Hong Kong Elderly
Eighty volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints worked with others in the community to take fresh bread and bottled water to residents of the village of Tai O after recent flooding and mudslides.

Missionaries Fill Sandbags as Mississippi Rises
QUINCY , Illinois — More than 130 missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are saying thank you to the people of Quincy, Illinois, by filling sandbags to protect the city that once protected Mormon pioneers.

Helping Hands Spare Nauvoo Sites in Record Midwest Flooding
As soon as the call went out that historic Nauvoo was flooding, helping hands pitched in to avert disaster.
By Marjorie H. Rice

Mormons Help Flood Victims in Three States
Hundreds of volunteers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints adorned in yellow “Mormon Helping Hands” T-shirts spent this past weekend rendering aid to flood victims throughout southern Indiana.

Famous Art Coming Your Way
Here's a question for you: What do Queen Elizabeth, Charlton Heston, Prince Charles, and Captain Moroni have in common? The answer may surprise you.

Family History Library Offers Free Classes on FamilySearch Indexing
The Family History Library offers classes on how to do indexing. The next series of classes will be taught on Saturday, July 12, 2008.

Mormon Youth Make Helping Others a Big Part of Social Gatherings
Forty young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gave more than 5,000 hours of volunteer service to upgrade a home in North Ogden, Utah.

BYU Television and KBYU-TV to air Priesthood Commemoration Fireside
BYU Television and KBYU-TV, Channel 11, will air the special fireside, "Church Commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of the Priesthood Revelation," on June 11 at 6:00 p.m. and June 15 at 1:00 p.m., respectively.

Defending Mormonism — Topic of New Book
As increased anti-Mormon Internet activity causes some Mormons to doubt their faith, but a grassroots volunteer group fights back.

Changes in Presidency of the Seventy Announced
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced change in the Presidency of the Seventy.

Elder Paul V. Johnson Appointed As Commissioner of Church Educational System
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced the appointment of Elder Paul V. Johnson as commissioner of the Church Educational System, succeeding Elder W. Rolfe Kerr, who has been called as the Logan, Utah temple president.

Mormons Make Their Voices Heard — Digitally
In an age when the Internet has become a primary way that people communicate, three young Latter-day Saint women endeavor to discuss their faith. They don't do it in their Sunday best sitting in a church house; they do it sitting in front of a Web cam with a high-speed connection.

Two Musical Headliners to Entertain
Two internationally acclaimed musical artists, Marvin Goldstein and Sam Payne, will emcee a summer evening of humor and music, which will appeal to the whole family, at the Washington D.C. Temple Visitors' Center, Friday, June 20, 7:30 pm.

President Uchtdorf Meets with European Saints in Three Cities
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, met with members of the Church and guests last week in Versailles.

Hong Kong Mormons Aid Earthquake Victims
Within days of the massive earthquake that rocked the Chinese province of Sichuan earlier this month, more than 600 members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from Hong Kong traveled to a factory in Shenzhen, China, to assemble 10,000 emergency kits for victims.

President Bush Meets with First Presidency
President George W. Bush met with the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Thursday morning at the Church’s headquarters in Salt Lake City.

Believers in God Need to Work Together, Apostle Says
A senior leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints told Bloomberg Television's Mike Schneider recently that “there should be a wonderful relationship with all people of all religious persuasions.”

New Phoenix Arizona Temple Announced
President Thomas S. Monson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced on Saturday, May 28, that the Church plans to build a new temple in Phoenix, Arizona. This will bring the worldwide total number of temples built or under construction to 140, including five in Arizona.

Remembering Gordon B. Hinckley Event at Washington D.C. Visitors' Center
Maurine and Scot Proctor, founders of Meridian Magazine, will be speaking at 7:00 p.m., Sunday night, June 1, at the Washington D.C. Visitors' Center and showing a DVD, Gordon B. Hinckley, Temple Builder: Upfront and Personal.

100th Mormon Congregation Organized in Taiwan
The Pacific island of Taiwan now has 100 congregations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Last month Mormon officials organized the new Mingchien Branch by dividing the larger Nantou Ward.

Aren't You Too Young to be Doing Genealogy?
Family history research, or genealogy, has traditionally been a hobby pursued mostly by middle-age adults and seniors. Formal college courses and advances in technology are now attracting teenagers and young adults to the pastime.

Missionaries Help Save Homes from Fires
Four Mormon missionaries helped save homes in their neighborhood when fires threatened the area last week.

Church Aid Sent to Myanmar
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the United Parcel Service, and Atlanta-based CARE International shipped 142,000 pounds of medical and other supplies to Myanmar on Monday, to aid those affected by a recent cyclone.

Elder J. Thomas Fyans Dies
Elder J. Thomas Fyans, an emeritus general authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died May 18, 2008, at his home after celebrating his much anticipated 90 th birthday with family members on Saturday.

FamilySearch Publishes Civil War Updates
FamilySearch genealogy website has announced its agreement with Footnote.com to publish two Civil War-era databases online.

How Mormons Deal with Fame
Seventeen-year-old Utah Mormon David Archuleta, one of two finalists in the singing contest American Idol, is the most recent example of high-profile Mormons who have had to reconcile their faith with their fame. 

Church Education Conference Set for June 6-7 at SVU
Registrations are now being taken for the annual Southern Virginia University Education Conference, which will be held on June 6-7 at the SVU campus. This year's theme is, “Living after the Manner of Happiness.”

Art Percussion Group at D.C. Temple Visitors’ Center
An award winning professional performance team from Taiwan is great entertainment that will appeal to all ages.

Curitiba Brazil Temple Opens its Doors to Public
The doors of the new Curitiba Brazil Temple are now open for public tours. The open house for members of the public will continue through 24 May, excluding Sundays.

Church Responds to Myanmar Disaster
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints extends its sympathy and assistance to the citizens of Myanmar following the recent devastating cyclone.

BYU-Idaho’s Three-Semester System is Working
Enrollment statistics released for summer semester 2008 at Brigham Young University-Idaho show that the goal of fully implementing the three-semester system is becoming a reality.

New Genealogy Guides for England and Scotland
FamilySearch has announced the release of two new free research tools that will help those with British and Scottish roots to find their ancestors.

LDS Women Reach Out to Serve
Why do these three Mormon women and thousands of others of their faith reach beyond the boundaries of their own homes, even their own communities, to provide relief to people in need?

Mormon Youth Put Life on Hold to Serve as Missionaries
Each of the more than 53,000 young Mormon missionaries serving as volunteers for the Church has a different story to tell about leaving behind career and studies to serve missions.

Osmonds to Join Tabernacle Choir for Concert
The entire Osmond family, including the Osmond Brothers, Donny, Marie and Jimmy, will be featured as guest artists for this year's Pioneer Day Concert by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square.

Church Works with Governments to Strengthen Families
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and government officials in the Philippines are joining together to provide resources to help strengthen families and communities.

President Thomas S. Monson to Give Closing Address at BYU Women's Conference
President Thomas S. Monson will be the concluding speaker during this year's Brigham Young University Women's Conference. He will address the attendees at 3:45 p.m. on Friday, May 2, in the Marriott Center.

McKay School of Education at BYU to Offer New Doctoral Program
The David O. McKay School of Education at Brigham Young University will initiate a newly designed doctoral degree program beginning fall semester 2008 titled Educational Inquiry, Measurement and Evaluation (EIME).

President Monson Announces Two New Temples in Arizona
Plans to build two new temples in Gila Valley and Gilbert, Arizona, were announced today by Thomas S. Monson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  This will bring the total number of temples to 134 already in operation or in the planning and construction phases.

A Week in the Life of a Mormon Family
It’s early morning, and Hilary and Patience Ekpo are going over the day’s plans. After reading scriptures and praying together, they gather their five children together and go through a similar exercise, this time with the whole family.

Church Collaborates on Emma Smith Movie
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints collaborated with the Joseph Smith Jr. and Emma Hale Smith Historical Society on the new movie, Emma Smith: My Story, which was released in theaters across Utah on 11 April.

New Zealand Temple Celebrates 50 Years
April 20 marks the dedication of the first temple in the South Pacific by President David O. McKay.
A photo essay by Laurie Williams Sowby

Apostle Urges Grads to Influence the Digital World
More than 1,400 Brigham Young University-Idaho graduates were urged to make their influence felt in the digital world in an address given by Elder M. Russell Ballard at winter commencement exercises held Friday, April 11.

Mormon Grandmother Helps Australian Prime Minister Say “Sorry”
As Prime Minister Kevin Rudd gave a historic apology to indigenous Australians earlier this year, Latter-day Saint woman Lorna Fejo watched the televised speech with great interest.

BYU to Host Annual Women's Conference
On Thursday and Friday, May 1 and 2, the 2008 Brigham Young University Women's Conference, co-sponsored by the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, will help women "Awake, Arise, and Come unto Him" through a broad range of instructional sessions and a service event that will "Make the Pathway Bright."

BYU–Idaho Introduces Laptop Computer Initiative
In an effort to further increase the quality of the student experience, Brigham Young University-Idaho is introducing a new initiative strongly encouraging students to obtain and use a laptop computer.

178th Annual General Conference
Sunday Afternoon, April 6, 2008
Talk Excerpts
Read excerpts of the last inspiring session of the 178th Annual General Conference. Speakers include Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Elder David A. Bednar, Elder W. Craig Zwick, Elder Robert R. Steuer, Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Elder Lance B. Wickman, Elder Craig C. Christensen, and Elder M. Russell Ballard.

178th Annual General Conference
Sunday Morning Session, April 6, 2008
Talk Excerpts
Sunday morning conference speakers included President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Elder Sheldon F. Child, Sister Susan W. Tanner, President Boyd K. Packer, President Thomas S. Monson. Read excerpts from their inspiring messages here.

178th Annual General Conference
Priesthood Session
Young and old priesthood holders were inspired by church leaders, including talks by Elder Quentin L. Cook, Bishop H. David Burton, President Dean R. Burgess, Elder John M. Madsen, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, and President Thomas S. Monson.

178th Annual General Conference
Saturday Afternoon Session, April 5, 2008
Talk Excerpts
The Saturday afternoon session o the 178th annual general conference included messages from Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Elder Robert D. Hales, Elder Gerald N. Lund, Elder Carlos H. Amado, Elder William R. Walker, Elder Richard G. Scott, and Elder L. Tom Perry.

First Presidency and New Apostle Sustained in Solemn Assembly
Thomas S. Monson was sustained Saturday as prophet, seer, revelator and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during a solemn assembly of Church members worldwide.

178th Annual General Conference
Saturday Morning Session, April 5, 2008
Talk Excerpts
Refresh your memories of the Saturday morning conference session. Read excerpts of talks by Elder Russell M. Nelson, Elder Ronald A. Rasband, Sister Cheryl C. Lant, Elder Kenneth Johnson, Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, and President Henry B. Eyring.

Former Dean of Harvard Business School to Speak at DC Temple Visitors’ Center
Kim B. Clark, the 15th president of Brigham Young University-Idaho, will speak about “Becoming a Disciple Leader,” Tuesday, April 15, 2008, at the Washington DC Temple Visitors’ Center.

Thousands to Attend 178th Annual General Conference
More than one hundred thousand Church members, friends and invited guests are expected to attend the 178th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Question-and-Answer Session Headlines Australian Broadcast
Thousands of Australians from many faiths gathered in 38 chapels recently to interact with an apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in a historic countrywide broadcast.

Taiwan Mayor Seeks Missionary Help
The mayor of Taichung has called on Mormon missionaries to assist with a project aimed at helping his city (population 1 million) become an inviting location for international business and tourism.

Leaders Urge Young Women to Make Good Choices
A Church leader told 20,000 young Latter-day Saint women on Saturday night that choices made at a young age can ultimately determine the course of a person's life.

Mack Wilberg Named Director of Mormon Tabernacle Choir
Dr. Mack Wilberg was officially named Friday as the new music director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir by Mac Christensen, president of the choir.

Church Seeks National Landmark Historic Designation
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced several developments in its efforts to memorialize the victims who were killed at Mountain Meadows more than 150 years ago in southern Utah.

Missionaries Help Protect Flooded Communities
The people of Fenton and Valley Park, Missouri, saw a different side of their local Mormon missionaries over the weekend. As floodwaters rose and homes and businesses were threatened, 50 young Latter-day Saints serving as missionaries for their church loosened their ties, rolled up their sleeves and got to work.

Visitors to Rembrandt Exhibit Find Common Ground
Educators, artists, art lovers and government officials are among the 30,000 guests who have seen 200-plus original works depicting the life of Christ by Rembrandt and other masters, all of which have been made available to Denver residents by art collector Shawn Merriman, a member of the Church.

Open House, Dedication Dates Announced for Twin Falls Idaho Temple
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the open house and dedication dates for the new Twin Falls Idaho Temple.

Claims Regarding Purported Image of Joseph Smith Explained
A purported image of Joseph Smith is circulating widely on the Internet. Some persons have mistakenly claimed that this image belongs to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and that Church officials have verified or are verifying its authenticity. These claims are not true.

Emotions Surface as New Museum Opens
When Lynn Stowell, a volunteer guide at Saturday’s opening of the new Northwest African American Museum, helped a man find information about his grandfather, the man wept. Such was the very personal response among some of the guests.

New Zealanders Spruce Up Neighborhoods
More than 5,000 members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their neighbors joined together on Saturday in a nationwide day of service to improve and beautify neighborhoods.

Young Australian Mormons Clean Up Sydney Park
For 150 young Latter-day Saints, cleaning up Sydney’s Centennial Parklands was their preferred activity for the first day of the Australian autumn, or fall.

Open House and Dedication Dates Announced for Panama City and Brazil Temples
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the dates for public open houses prior to the dedications of new temples in Curitiba, Brazil, and Panama City, Panama.

Richard E. Turley Jr. Named Assistant Church Historian and Recorder
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has named Richard E. Turley Jr. as the new assistant Church historian and recorder, signaling another step forward in its commitment to collect, preserve and publish Church historical records.

Network Founder Tells NPR Parents Should Do More
In an interview with National Public Radio recently, philanthropist Sheila Johnson said that moral standards in the media were declining and that parents needed to step up.

Church Releases New Official Portrait of First Presidency
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the official portrait of the new First Presidency.

Volunteers Help Restore Earthquake-Damaged Town
More than 300 Latter-day Saint volunteers endured a whiteout snowstorm a week ago as they helped residents repair their town following a series of earthquakes. After an initial 6.0 quake on February 21, several aftershocks have hit the town, damaging homes and other buildings.

New Website Focuses on Life and Teachings of Christ
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has launched a new multimedia website about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The site, JesusChrist.lds.org, was almost a year in the making.

New Publishing Imprint Set to Boost Mormon Scholarship
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the establishment of The Church Historian’s Press, a new imprint for publishing works related to the Church’s origin and growth.

Two Hymns Inspired by President Gordon B. Hinckley
In the wake of the death of President Gordon B. Hinckley, two stories have been circulating about hymns that have been written that have connections to the Prophet. Although many “true stories” that circulate on the internet are nothing more than fabrications, both these stories are based in truth.

San Diego Stakes Stage Annual Mormon Battalion Day
Fourteen Southern California stakes join forces to commemorate the longest infantry march in U.S. history with displays, music, cannon fire, and hands-on activities in Old Town State Park.
Photos and text by Laurie Williams Sowby

Church Will Work to Increase Understanding, Apostles Say
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will increase its efforts to ensure that the public better understands its beliefs and the values it represents, two apostles of the Church said this week.

President Monson Keeps Close Ties to Canada
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints embrace President Thomas S. Monson as their new president, Canadian Mormons claim especially close ties to him.

President Monson Dedicates Rexburg Temple
Despite record snowfall, fog, and customary winds, the Rexburg Temple was dedicated Sunday, February 10, and the heavens smiled.
By Laurie Williams Sowby

Color, Culture, Energy Abound in Youthful Celebration
Some 2,000 youths blend serious reflection with entertainment on the eve of the Rexburg Temple dedication.
Photos and text by Laurie Williams Sowby

Rexburg Temple to be Dedicated
The Rexburg Idaho Temple will be dedicated Sunday, February 10th, by President Thomas S. Monson. The dedication was postponed a week from its original date, due to the death of President Gordon B. Hinckley.

Non-Americans in the First Presidency
At the press conference held to announce the new First Presidency this week, one of the reporters noted that there seems to be a new direction, with second counselor Dieter F. Uchtdorf being German rather than a Utah-born American. Although he is a welcome addition to the presiding quorum, President Uchtdorf is not the first non-American to serve in the First Presidency.
By John A. Tvedtnes

President Thomas S. Monson — The Pure Love of Christ
Whether reaching out to a tender heart in a bed of sickness or to an entire nation bereft of the full blessings of the gospel, Thomas S. Monson has the touch that blesses and changes lives.
By Maurine Proctor

The Mantle of the Prophet Falls on Thomas S. Monson
Despite the noise and upheaval in the world, the succession of the presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Monday morning was calm and even joyful. Meridian Magazine was there for the press conference. Come see history unfold through our eyes.
Text by Maurine Proctor
Photography by Scot Facer Proctor

President Hinckley’s Death Prompts International Media Attention
Media organizations from China to Britain and Australia to Turkey have covered the news of the death of President Gordon B. Hinckley, leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Last Respects for President Hinckley
How can we possibly say good-bye to President Gordon B. Hinckley? Thousands came to pay their last respects in the Hall of the Prophets at the Conference Center. We talked to some of them and took some pictures. Come on this emotional journey with us.
Text by Maurine Proctor
Photography by Scot Facer Proctor

A Visit to President Hinckley’s Grave Alone
In the brief twenty minutes we visited President Hinckley's grave in the bitter cold, we were there alone. I wanted to share a few pictures with you of this very familiar place to us. Maurine and I know this hillside very intimately. Come and see.
By Scot Facer Proctor

Church Leaders Pay Tribute to President Hinckley
With arrangements for the funeral of President Gordon B. Hinckley underway, church leaders who worked with the Prophet paid tribute to him in statements released this week.

Gordon B. Hinckley — In His Own Words
Here are some of our favorite quotes from President Hinckley in the last few years.

New Venue for President Hinckley's Viewing Announced
Funeral Seating Outlined
The venue for President Gordon B. Hinckley's viewing has been changed.

LDS Missions have Lifelong Impact
Instantly recognizable and seemingly ubiquitous, Mormon missionaries are hard to miss. Although thousands of news articles have been written over the years about missionaries and their work, few people realize the impact their missions have on the rest of their lives.

Readers Share Experiences with President Hinckley
Meridian readers who rubbed shoulders with President Hinckley during the Prophet's ministry recall their encounters with this great man.

Talks to Lift, Bless, Inspire and Guide Us
from President Gordon B. Hinckley
Come and contemplate the numerous ways your life has been blessed by the teachings, doctrines and principles taught us by President Gordon B. Hinckley in the past nearly 13 years.
By Scot Facer Proctor

Meridian Readers across the World Mourn President Hinckley
From Canada to Australia, from Lithuania to Sri Lanka, Meridian readers are saddened by the death of President Hinckley. Here are more of their tributes and recollections, demonstrating the greatness of this prophet of God.

God be with You ‘til We Meet Again
We, who have come so much to rely on President Hinckley’s goodness and vision, pretended that he could continue to defy time. We wanted him to, because we would never be ready to let him go.
By Maurine and Scot Proctor

Funeral Services for President Hinckley Announced
Funeral services for President Gordon B. Hinckley, leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who died Sunday evening, will be held this Saturday, February 2, in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City.

Cane Wave Tribute to President Hinckley
In honor of President Gordon B. Hinckley, a unique tribute to this beloved prophet is being organized for his funeral. All who loved President Hinckley and who will be in Salt Lake City on the day of the funeral are invited to participate.

Meridian Readers Remember President Hinckley
As church members learned of President Gordon B. Hinckley’s passing, many of them sent their thoughts to Meridian Magazine. We published some of these poignant memories on Monday. Here are some more tributes to our beloved prophet.

Beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley Passes Away
Our beloved President Gordon B. Hinckley, who led The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints through twelve years of global expansion, has died Sunday evening at his apartment in downtown Salt Lake at 7:00 p.m. at the age of 97 of causes incident to age.
By Maurine Proctor with information from the LDS Newsroom

Meridian Readers Respond to President Hinckley’s Death
Meridian readers have been flooding our inbox with their loving and tender responses to the passing of President Hinckley. Here is a small sample of the emails sent by Meridian readers.

Time line of Significant Events as President
Year by year events during President Hinckley's administration.

Testimony of President Gordon B. Hinckley
"I leave you my testimony, my witness and my love for each of you."

Succession in the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
When the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints passes away, the following events take place.

Official Numbers Attract Media Interest
Church Public Affairs reports that membership numbers have become particularly important to journalists writing about the Church during the current U.S. presidential campaign.

Video Challenges Mormon Myths, Explains Reality
A 10-minute video originally produced for the large number of journalists visiting Salt Lake City for the 2002 Winter Olympics has been updated and posted online to help counter persistent myths about the Church.

Church Finds Ways to Help Members with Disabilities
A new website sponsored by lds.org shows church members how to assist members of their wards and stakes in being active participants in their home congregations despite physical disabilities.

Rexburg Idaho Temple Open to Public
The public is invited to tour the newly completed Rexburg Idaho Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Family History Library Offers Free Classes on FamilySearch Indexing
The Family History Library in Salt Lake City is offering classes on how to do FamilySearch indexing. The next classes will be held on two Fridays, January 18 and January 25, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.

Apostle Urges Students to Use New Media
Two hundred graduating students at Brigham Young University-Hawaii were urged last week to use the Internet — including blogs and other forms of “new media” — to contribute to a national conversation about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

New Study Shows Health Benefit of Fasting
A study presented to the American Heart Association indicates that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who regularly fast are less likely to have coronary heart disease.

BYU's Lee Library Places Missionary Diary Collection Online
Hyrum Smith's missionary diary is the oldest of 575 diaries written by early missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that are now housed in BYU's Harold B. Lee Library. After an enormous, five-year project, 376 of these diaries — including Smith's — are now available for patrons around the world to access online.

Festival of Lights Schedule for D.C. Temple
Here is a schedule of events for the 2007 Festival of Lights, being held through January 1st at the Washington D.C. Temple.

Primary Organization Serves as Parental Support
Working as a support to parents, the Primary organization of The Church of Jesus Christ has become a significant resource for Latter-day Saint parents worldwide.

Interfaith Crèche Display Strengthens Community Ties
Combine nearly 1,000 crèches and 700 volunteers from various religious denominations in one LDS stake center, and what do you get? A powerful spirit of community as well as an amazingly well-organized and beautiful exhibit that’s the perfect way to start the Christmas season.
By Laurie Williams Sowby

Missionaries Found Unharmed in Martinique
Two Mormon missionaries missing since Monday on the Island of Martinique have been found unharmed.

BYU Television to Air Michigan State vs. BYU B-ball Game Live
On Saturday, Dec. 8, BYU Television will provide live coverage of the BYU men’s basketball team’s match-up against Michigan State.

Brazilian Senate Honors Church and Its Members
At a time when The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the United States faces heightened interest from American media and public forums about its history, beliefs and practices, the Brazilian Senate has just held a special session to honor the 80-year presence of the Church in Brazil.

BYU Accounting Teams Excel at National Competition
A team of Marriott School undergraduate accounting students placed first and a team of graduate accounting students placed second at the 2007 Deloitte Tax Case Study National Competition, marking BYU's seventh consecutive first- or second-place finish in the undergraduate division.
By Irasema Romero

Temple Square Shines to Commemorate Birth of Christ
During the Christmas season, 10 acres in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City will sparkle with millions of lights, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir will sing for 100,000 people and a Christmas devotional will be broadcast throughout the world from the Conference Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — all to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

Church to Hold Latino Christmas Program
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced this year’s Latino Christmas program, to be held 6–8 December in the Tabernacle on Temple Square. The program, titled “El regalo de navidad,” will be presented entirely in Spanish.

Washington Post Article Describes "Global Mormonism"
An article by Washington Post London bureau Chief Mary Jordan explores the reasons behind the 10% annual growth rate of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Nigeria. Jordan spent a week in Lagos, charting the lives of members of the Church who had recently converted to Mormonism.

AML Issues Call for Papers
The Association for Mormon Letters announces a call for papers for the AML Annual Meeting, to be held Saturday, February 23 in the Wilkinson Center on the campus of Brigham Young University.

Joseph Smith Descendants Host 1840s Christmas Celebration in Nauvoo
Some 164 years after the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, descendants of Joseph and Emma will host for the first time a commemorative Christmas weekend in Nauvoo, Illinois, Thursday December 6th through Saturday the 8th, 2007. The planned events are open to the first 100 who register.
By Marjorie H. Rice

Native Atlanta Artist Unveils African American Pioneer Painting
A painting depicting the western migration of the African-American Mormon pioneer Jane Manning James will be unveiled in Suwanee, Georgia, this Saturday.

Temple in Tonga Attracts 40,000 Visitors
Some 40,000 visitors attended the recent month-long open house for the newly renovated Tonga temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The number constitutes forty percent of the island nation.

BYU-Idaho Admissions Office Reaches Out to Returning Missionaries
In an effort to better serve returning missionaries, the Brigham Young University-Idaho Admissions Office has announced the new Returning Missionary Program. This program exists to help returning missionaries preserve the spiritual momentum and dedication of the mission field by enrolling in the first semester after their return.

Apostles Address Misconceptions with Editorial Boards
Two apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have completed a first round of visits to the Washington, D.C., editorial boards of major American newspapers and magazines.

Mormons Continue Helping Neighbors after California Fires
To date, the Church has delivered five truckloads of supplies to evacuees in the San Diego area. Blankets and hygiene kits were given to evacuees in the Lake Arrowhead/Running Springs area. Some 13 chapels have been used as temporary shelters over the past two weeks.

BYU Announces Tuition Increase for 2008-2009 Academic Year
Brigham Young University announced that it will raise undergraduate tuition 6.3 percent for the 2008-2009 academic year, bringing the undergraduate rate per semester to $2,040, up $120 from last year's tuition of $1,920.

Church Members Ask Soul-Searching Questions in Media Campaign
The religion known in the past 30 years for its cutting-edge public service ads on the family has now redefined ways to share its message in a major multimedia campaign. In ads being run in three test areas throughout the United States, recent converts to the Church share their experiences unscripted and in their own words.

Family History Library To Hold Free Classes on Native American Research
If you are struggling with research on your Native American ancestry, here is an opportunity to learn from experts. On Saturday, 17 November, 2007, the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah, is offering classes on Native American research.

Whitney Awards Committee Announces Awards for Authors
The Whitney Awards Committee announced this week that it is offering seven large cash awards to be presented to outstanding LDS authors.

LDS Church Providing Emergency Relief to California Fire Victims
Six semi-trucks have been dispatched to various evacuee shelters carrying a total of more than 28,000 blankets, 26,000 hygiene kits, processed foods, cots and other supplies to provide relief to the fire victims in California.

BYU Museum of Art Offers Monday Night Presentation on Minerva Teichert
The Brigham Young University Museum of Art is offering a new Monday night program that provides unique insights into the museum's exhibition “Minerva Teichert: Pageants in Paint.”

Church Responds to California Wildfires
So far, all the missionaries are safe and the Church has stepped up to help in California's wildfires.

LDS Church Recognizes Community Leaders for Commitment to Family
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has honored a Catholic archbishop for his work to protect traditional marriage and an adoption agency for their efforts to help abused, neglected and abandoned children.

Richard L. Bushman Named as Hunter Visiting Professor in Mormon Studies at Claremont
Claremont Graduate University has appointed distinguished Latter-day Saint scholar Richard Lyman Bushman as the Howard W. Hunter Visiting Professor in Mormon Studies in its School of Religion. Dr. Bushman will play a key role in establishing at Claremont the first permanent, graduate-level study of Mormonism at a secular university.

Funeral Set for Sister Inis Egan Hunter
Funeral services for Inis Egan Hunter, wife of Howard W. Hunter, the 14th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, will be held at the Ensign Stake Center, 135 A. Street in Salt Lake City on Monday, 22 October 2007, at 12 noon. The funeral will be open to the public.

Book of Mormon Lands Conference this Weekend
The Book of Mormon Archaeological Forum (BMAF) will hold its fifth annual Book of Mormon Lands Conference on Saturday, October 20, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Registration begins at 8:30 AM.

Mormon Helping Hands Project Benefits Brazilian Schools
More than 60,000 Brazilians worked together on Brazil's Independence Day under the banner of "Mormon Helping Hands" — a service program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — to make much-needed repairs at 284 schools throughout the country.

10,000 Volunteers Needed to Put Latin American Family History on the Web
FamilySearch, the world's largest repository of genealogical records, is calling for 10,000 volunteers who can read both English and Spanish to help index Mexican, Argentine and other Latin American records for the Internet.

President Howard W. Hunter's Wife Dies
Inis Egan Hunter, 93, wife of Howard W. Hunter, the 14th president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints passed away peacefully this morning 14 October 2007 at her home in Laguna Hills, CA from causes incident to age.

Artwork from the Museum of Church History and Art Now Available Online
For the first time, artwork from the Museum of Church History and Art is now available online. A new partnership between the Museum and LDS Church Distribution Services makes it possible for anyone in the United States and Canada to view prints available for purchase and order over the Internet.

Old Agriculture Books Can Enrich a Family History
Old cattle brands and markings are one way to track down family history, and a collection of Utah cattle brands and markings is now available online.

177th Semi-Annual General Conference
Sunday Afternoon Session October 7, 2007
The closing session of conference covered such wide-ranging topics as how to lure a horse with food, how to serve by giving an example of love, and how to choose between good activities and better ones. Read these talk excerpts and be inspired by what your church leaders have to say.

177th Semi-Annual General Conference
Sunday Morning Session October 7, 2007
Sunday morning's conference talks focused on keeping a record of spiritual experiences, the conversion of even wayward souls, and the importance of following the Prophet. Read here for excerpts of these inspirational addresses.

177th Semi-Annual General Conference
Priesthood Session October 6, 2007
General authorities of the Church inspired priesthood holders to cling to the gospel and avoid the snares of the outside world.

177th Semi-Annual General Conference
Saturday Afternoon Session October 6, 2007
This October General Conference was one never to be forgotten. Meridian has prepared excerpts from the talks from each session of conference. Come and be reminded of the wonderful talks you have just heard this past weekend. These are excerpts from the Saturday afternoon session.

New Calls: President Elder Henry B. Eyring, Elder Quentin L. Cook
The new member of the First Presidency and the new member of the Twelve went to the Church Office Building between sessions of conference to meet the press.  Meridian was there.  Come and see and read about this up-front-and-personal meeting.
By Scot Facer Proctor

177th Semi-Annual General Conference
Saturday Morning Session October 6, 2007
Refresh your memories of the wonderful conference sessions this past weekend. Come and review Saturday morning's session with talks from President Boyd K. Packer, Bishop Richard C. Edgley, Sister Mary N. Cook, Elder Enrique R. Falabella, Elder Spencer J. Condie, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, and President Thomas S. Monson.

New Presidency of the Seventy Sustained
Elder Claudio R.M. Costa, Elder Steven E. Snow and Elder Walter F. Gonzalez were all sustained by members of the Church as new members of the Presidency of the Seventy, the third highest governing body of the Church, in the Saturday morning session of the 177th Semiannual General Conference.

Pakistani Supreme Court Justice to Receive Honorary Doctorate from Southern Virginia University
Southern Virginia University will award the Honorable Mr. Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani with an honorary doctorate for his efforts to promote constitutionalism and the rule of law in Pakistan, as well as increased understanding among people of all faiths and backgrounds.

Companies, Church Team Up to Transport Goods to Peru
ASTAR Air Cargo, Inc., has teamed up with its largest customer, DHL, to provide air transport services for humanitarian goods provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help those injured or displaced by the recent 8.0-magnitude earthquake in Peru.

Elder Ballard Answers Frequently Asked Questions
A series of video clips in which an apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints addresses some of the questions most frequently asked by the news media were made public by the Church this week.

Tabernacle Choir Exhibit Now Showing at Washington D.C. Temple Visitors' Center
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir Exhibit is now showing at the Washington D. C. Temple Visitors’ Center in Kensington, Maryland. Displays include wardrobe, awards, history, leadership, tour highlights, and “Music and the Spoken Word.”

Passage to Zarahemla Shoe Drive Announced
A drive being throughout Utah from now through Friday, October 12th, is set to collect shoes for those in need in Iraq.
By Bettyanne Bruin

Family History Library to Hold Series of Free Classes on Emigration/Immigration
On Saturday, 29 September 2007, the Family History Library is offering an all-day series of classes on Finding Your Immigrant Ancestors.

BYU Homecoming Spectacular to feature Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra at Temple Square
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square appear as guest artists for the 2007 Homecoming festivities at BYU.

“True Blue” to Air on BYU Television
BYU Broadcasting is launching an all new, weekly sports television show.

Hundreds Gather to Honor Mountain Meadows Victims
Elder Henry B. Eyring addressed a memorial service honor those who died at Mountain Meadows.

Family History Library to Offer Free Classes on Research in Sweden
On Saturday, 22 September 2007, the Family History Library will offer a series of classes on researching your Swedish ancestry.

Temple Open Houses Scheduled in Rexburg and Tonga
The nearly completed temple in Rexburg, Idaho –the 125th operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—will be open to the public 29 Dec. 2007 and continuing through 26 Jan, 2008.

Church Donation Helps Youth Rise beyond Ghetto
Playing the violin in a children's orchestra may have saved 7-year-old Daniel's life. The youngster, orphaned after witnessing his mother's murder in his slum neighborhood, found safety, comfort and future direction in the orchestra sponsored by the Child-Citizen Project.

Temples Rising in Remote Locations
Temples, which are considered the most sacred places on earth, are rising in the remotest corners of the earth.

Church Welfare System Draws Media Attention
News media reports show that the Church's humanitarian aid program goes well beyond caring only for its own members. It also feeds a global humanitarian program.

Church Emergency Response Shows Speed, Flexibility
An earthquake in Peru and a hurricane in Mexico within a few days of each other demonstrated the speed and flexibility of the emergency response procedures of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

African-American Family History Conference Takes Place Next Week
In honor of the Dred Scott 150th anniversary, an unprecedented African-American Family History Conference will be held in St. Louis on Saturday, September 8, 2007. Discover Your Roots includes ten classes and two featured speakers and is expected to attract persons from the Midwest region and beyond.

Church Responds to Peruvian Earthquake Disaster
The Church of Jesus Christ of Lat