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You sent us some of your most cherished memories of the pioneers in your life! Here were just some of our favorites. Submitted by Shane Castillo Manning of Pioneer Girls I’m working on a book for my daughter about my great-great-grandmother, Emma Higbee, who was 11 years old when she traveled with the Heber C. Kimball 2nd Company from Winter …

A few weeks ago, my Mormon congregation paid our annual visit to the Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in South Central Los Angeles. It’s a tradition I’ve participated in every year since moving to LA; we visit their congregation in the summer, and they come to ours in the fall. I will admit I was nervous the first time I went. …

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Payson Utah Temple. As I was driving home, I felt buoyant from the warmth of the sun and the Spirit. The only thing that marred the drive was the constant skipping of the old church CD I had playing. Figuring it was probably ok to ease back into the secular world, I …

Some time ago I encountered a life situation that caused me great anguish. I remember spending many days and nights sobbing about my plight. There was nothing I could do to change it, and the tremendous feeling of powerlessness I felt caused profound suffering. I prayed and prayed to be delivered from this challenge, but was continually told, “No.” One …

I got my first CTR ring for my 12th Christmas. This was a monumental event in my young manhood. I would be getting my first “real” CTR ring and receiving the Aaronic priesthood within a one month period. I was thrilled to finally be upgrading from my adjustable CTR ring that turned my finger green to a sterling silver CTR ring. …

Originally posted by Emily, at her blog. I have to start this out with one incredibly vital point. I loved and adored every one of my Young Women’s leaders. This post is not an attack on their teachings or advice. I know they left parts of their hearts and souls on the table when they taught on Sunday. I am so thankful for …

I’ll never forget the moment I thought God was dead. I was driving home from work, south on I-15 towards Provo, and trying not to cry. For months I’d been watching in bewilderment and horror as my relationship with God seemed to burn endlessly on until nothing but ash and soot remained. In the shock of it all, I couldn’t …

The ultimate test that the Lord puts on a parent’s shoulder is that of sacrificing their child. For David and Melody Levine, their only daughter Kendal’s decision to serve a mission was something they were all excited about. However, Kendal’s mission would go far beyond a typical 18-month mission, it would change her life permanently when she was struck by …

Calvin Newby was determined to visit 100 temples constructed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in his lifetime. The lofty goal was born when former president of the LDS Church Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley announced a plan of building the 100th temple by the end of the 20th century, according to his wife of 36 years, Joan …

Her mission was remission. But looking back, it is clear Afton Wallace’s mission encompassed so much more. From her diagnosis of Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer complete with “impressive” malignant tumors, to the moment she slipped quietly away into eternity on May 24, Afton inspired thousands to live life with vibrancy, faith, generosity, and true grit, a collection …