Click here to download YCL Leadership Training Workshop Packet LEADERSHIP: Teach – Testify – Experience What makes a good Leader? What does it mean to be a Youth Camp Leader? Gain Res…
The beginning of every year, I have a YW board meeting with all my YW leaders. We go over leadership training, our calling responsibilities {per the handbook of instruction}, teaching responsibilities, & the Personal Progress program. This year I really wanted to discuss the Handbook Section 3, "Leadership in the Church of Jesus Christ." But also tie the evening into the new 2013 mutual theme of "Stand ye in Holy Places." I wasn't quite sure how I was going to pull it all together but was hoping to figure it out before our meeting. :) As I was studying the handbook, reading talks & watching videos on serving the YW of the church when I came across the talk from conference a few years back by Sister Beck called "Mothers who know..." I had a light bulb moment!!! I thought I could do my leadership instruction & call it "Leaders who know...STAND." I would use each letter of the work STAND & talk about our responsibilities as YW leaders {per the handbook}. Here is what I came up with... I pulled out a section of the handbook to share with my leaders for each letter that we discussed. S-Strengthen-Handbook 10.1.1 & 3.2.3 T-Teach & Testify-Handbook 3.2.4 A-Apply-Handbook 3.2.1 & 10.5 paragraph 3 N-Nurture-Used a portion of Sis. Becks talk "Mothers Who Know...Nurture." D-Do more by doing less-Handbook 3.3.3, 3.3.4, 10.8 Here is the handout that I made for each of my AWESOME leaders to that home that evening so they could remember the 2013 theme. I just printed a picture of the temple out on card stock that I had put the word "STAND" onto & modge podged it onto a 6x6 tile. Thanks again to Mindy Evans Photography. Who has the most beautiful pictures of various temples and allows you to use them for personal use. The evening turned out GREAT!! I am so lucky to be working with the most amazing YW leaders on our board. They are fabulous!! Good luck to all you YW presidents planning your board meetings. UPDATE: I'm adding the BLANK files for this evening for all of you who would like to use them for your own board meetings. You can download by just right clicking on the image and saving the pic to your computer. If you do use it and post it, please just link the file back to my blog. THANKS!!! Hope this is a help to someone, somewhere. :)
In this How I Lead podcast episode, Kurt talks with two women who are members of their stake Young Women presidencies, who share their experiences and the leadership principles guiding them. Carrie Miller Carrie Miller lives in Boise, Idaho, where she is serving as a stake Young Women president. She previously served as an advisor […]
It’s time to start preparing for this year’s Young Women’s Camp. I thought I would write about our 2014 camp for any of those Camp Directors out there looking for ideas. Our cam…
I originally saw this cute Idea on Pinterest, It linked me over to marciecoombs.blogspot.com. I changed a few of the "UP's" and made alittle 4x6 printable. Just print and attach to a 7-UP I've also had a few request for a girls camp Uplifting handout.
lds blogs, sisters in zion, lds yw, lds, yw camp, crafts, relief society, primary, mutual theme
Click here to download YCL Leadership Training Workshop Packet LEADERSHIP: Teach – Testify – Experience What makes a good Leader? What does it mean to be a Youth Camp Leader? Gain Res…
I promised more LDS girls camp ideas and here they are--even though girls camp is over for many of you. Oh well. Pin it for next year! Thes...
Our 2013 Stake Young Women Camp Theme was: "Your Once Upon A Time Is Now" * INSPIRED BY Your Happily Ever After, President Dieter F Uchtdorf * * "In most languages there exists a phrase as magical and full of promise as perhaps any in the world. That phrase is 'Once upon a time.' Aren’t those wonderful words to begin a story? 'Once upon a time' promises something: a story of adventure and romance, a story of princesses and princes. It may include tales of courage, hope, and everlasting love. In many of these stories, nice overcomes mean and good overcomes evil. But perhaps most of all, I love it when we turn to the last page and our eyes reach the final lines and we see the enchanting words 'And they lived happily ever after.' Isn’t that what we all desire: to be the heroes and heroines of our own stories, to triumph over adversity, to experience life in all its beauty, in the end, to live happily ever after?... Sisters, we love you. We pray for you. Be strong and of good courage. You are truly royal spirit daughters of Almighty God. You are princesses, destined to become queens. Your own wondrous story has already begun. Your 'once upon a time' is now." * OUR 2013 YW CAMP THEME SONG My Story, by Katie Witcomb - from the 2012 EFY Album * DISNEY VIDEO This fits beautifully with the theme... one of our girls actually made another version of this video, with young women from our stake. It is on YouTube, but for some reason I cannot load it here. Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCdD4ZHlQhQ * * CAMP HIGHLIGHTS There were so many amazing moments that took place during the week. So many special experiences to take note of. And so many hands and hours spent to make it all happen. Thank you to all those who made it seem as if it only took a wave of a magical wand to make it happen. * Here is just a glimpse of our enchanting week at camp: * * Our Senior YW Camp Co-Chairs * GROUP ASSIGNMENTS/COLORS * * 1st Years a.k.a. Dashing Damsels Color: Green Disney Movie Inspiration: Tangled * * 2nd Years a.k.a. Darling Duchesses Color: Sky Blue Disney Movie Inspiration: Cinderella * * 3rd Years a.k.a. Beautiful Belles Color: Yellow Disney Movie Inspiration: Beauty and the Beast * * 4th Years a.k.a. Sassy Soldiers Color: Violet Disney Movie Inspiration: Mulan * YCL 1 / JC's Color: Sapphire They were each assigned to either the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year cabins. * * YCL 2 a.k.a. Tigerlillies Color: paprika Disney Movie Inspiration: Pocahontas * * Adult Leaders a.k.a. Fairy Godmothers Color: bright pink * MONDAY On the first night of camp we, as a Stake Young Women Presidency, shared a special experience (FHE) for the seniors. Our presentation was drawn from Disney's "Snow White". Note: I am not going to give all the details, just a simple synopsis. :) * * Fireside Introduction Each girl received a booklet (mini composition book from DollarTree 3/1.00, the pages below were glued into the books beforehand) and a twig pencil to answer the questions at each "stop" along their journey with Snow White. * It was explained that they were about to go on a journey with Snow White. A lantern (the light of Christ and/or the Holy Ghost) was provided for the group to follow as they traveled from one "stop" to the next. We lead them to 6 different locations set-up within camp. At each "stop" a question was presented. Next, there was a brief discussion/mini lesson lead by a member of the Stake YW Presidency. Then the question was presented again. The girls were given a few minutes to write their answers/thoughts in their booklets before traveling to their next destination. Here is a brief look at each "stop" along their journey with Snow White: ** 1. Mirror/Mirror - Self Esteem/Comparison * * The Queen looked to the Magic Mirror often asking the question, "Magic mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" She did not know of her own worth and needed to hear it from someone else. * Possible Resources - For Strength of Youth, Personal Progress: Individual Worth* * 2. Wishing Well - Modesty/Dating/Sexual Purity * * Snow White stood at the wishing well, wishing and hoping for love. The Prince hears her and answers with "I have but one song,. One song, only for you. One heart tenderly beating, ever entreating, constant and true. One love that has possessed me. One love thrilling me through. One song my heart keeps singing. Of one love. Only for you." * Possible Resources - For Strength of Youth: Dress and Appearance/Dating/Sexual Purity, Personal Progress: Virtue, Fishing for Piranhas * 3. Dwarfs Cottage - Service/Work * * Snow White did not know who she was serving to begin with. She only knew that there was a need. As the Seven Dwarfs came to know her, as she cared for and served them, a relationship of friendship and love grew. Even Grumpy. :) * Possible Resources - For Strength of Youth: Service, Personal Progress: Good Works * 4. The Huntsman - Integrity * * The Huntsman was given the task to find Snow White and kill her -bringing her heart back to the Queen in a box as proof. Knowing that he would most likely be killed if he did not complete the task, made the choice to let not only let Snow White live, but tell her of the Queen's evil intentions. * Possible Resources - For Strength of Youth: Honesty and Integrity, Personal Progress: Integrity * 5. Apples - Media/Entertainment * * The Evil Queen offered Snow White an apple promising, "One bite and all your dreams will come true". There are baskets and baskets of both good and bad apples presented to us on a daily basis. Note: Just for fun, there was a basket of apples for the girl to snack on at this "stop" on their journey. * Possible Resources - For Strength of Youth: Entertainment and Media, Personal Progress: Choice and Accountability * 6. Glass Coffin - Atonement * * Snow White went into a sleeping death after taking a bite of the poisoned apple. Only true loves kiss would break the curse. When we find ourselves in situations where our spirits are sleeping, it is through the love of our Savior that we are awaken. * Possible Resources - For Strength of Youth: Repentance, Personal Progress: Faith, the song My Story by Lex de Azevedo, Please Take My Pain Away * Fireside Discussion and Wrap-Up * * The journey ended back at the bonfire. We discussed their journey here on earth and the many different paths and "stops" along the way. One of those being the temple. We talked about those things they have, which combined, create a wonderful map: the scriptures, words of the prophets, their patriarchal blessings, for strength of youth, personal progress, prayer and personal revelation. Their companions on this journey - their parents, family, good friends and leaders. And their compass - the Holy Ghost. * Gift Each girl was given a Scrabble tile necklace with a photo of the Salt Lake Temple - a reminder. :) * * TUESDAY Daily Theme: "You are a Princesses, Destined to Become Queens" Song: Highlights: the rest of the young women arrive at camp Certification begins * WEDNESDAY Daily Theme: "Whistle While You Work" Song: Highlights: Letters to the missionaries serving from our stake Service Projects - clearing trails, making fleece baby blankets Hikes * * Skit Night - Always a fun night filled with lots of noise and laughter! To kick off the night, the following video (starring a few young men from our stake) was shown: "What Makes You Beautiful". The girls went crazy! They loved it! * * THURSDAY Daily Theme: "Mirror, Mirror" Song: Highlights: A day filled with activities and crafts. Zip Line Rappelling Archery Smash Books Stamped Washer Necklaces Friendship Bracelets Spin Art T-Shirts - these were so fun to make! Here are my daughters making their shirts... Art Gallery - I was so happy to see that the art gallery continued this year! The girls created beautiful works of art, which were hung, with clothespins, on twine wrapped around the trunks of trees - creating a wonderful display. * * FRIDAY Daily Theme: "Defeat the Dragon" Song: Highlights: All Camp Activity - The first day of camp each girl was given a punch card. Throughout the week, if they chose to do so, they could work on Personal Progress and memorize a daily scripture. Little did they know that come Friday, each punch of the card would give them more ammunition for the flour war - which was held secret - on Friday. After the flour war was over and the winners were announced one of the YCL2 (seniors) had everyone gather in and sit down. She did a wonderful wrapping up the flour war and explaining the importance of being prepared to "defeat the dragon" - working on personal progress, scripture study, prayer, etc. * SATURDAY Daily Theme: "Happily Ever After..." Song: Highlights: Pack up Clean up Brunch Closing ceremonies and awards Travel home
Jeopardy Women whoo are Righteous Examples page 2 Jeopardy Women whoo are Righteous Examples page 1 Jeopardy Women whoo are Righteous Examples Answer Key
I was in charge of the activity this week for Young Women. We were welcoming two new girls into the group so I wanted to plan some kind of get-to-know-you game. I found a couple ideas online and decided to combine them. First, I took a bunch of tongue depressors and wrote two words, one on each end, which the girls would have to choose between. Some examples were "Chocolate" or "Vanilla", "Cats" or "Dogs", and "Facebook" or "Instagram". I also took some yarn and wound it into a ball. The container is just a No. 10 can wrapped in washi tape. I tied the end of the yarn to my wrist and picked a stick. I can't remember the exact stick I picked, but lets say it was "Fame" or "Money". I chose "Money". The next step was to ask who agreed with me. Everyone who agreed raised their hands. I then threw the yarn to someone with a raised hand. They put their had down, wrapped the yarn around themselves and threw it to someone else with a raised hand. This continued until no raised hands were left. At that point, the person with the yarn chose another stick and the game continued. Pretty soon, the yarn had woven quite a web illustrating that we are all connected in some way. I was pretty nervous going into the game. I figured everyone would love it or it would be a huge flop. Surprisingly everyone had a blast and really enjoyed themselves. It was great getting to know everyone a little better and it was a perfect introduction for the new girls to the group. P.S. You may want some scissors on hand for the end!
It’s time to start preparing for this year’s Young Women’s Camp. I thought I would write about our 2014 camp for any of those Camp Directors out there looking for ideas. Our cam…
This is "Arvada Stake YW Pep Talk" by marcia wride on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.
I work with young women in my church and we have activities every Wednesday night. A couple weeks ago we planned out a Standards ni...
This Sunday is our Camp Kick Off! I'm so excited to be officially presenting both our stake and ward themes to the girls. I think it's going to be a fun night! The YCLS have been hard at work creating a skit for the night and working on all of their various parts. Our stake theme is Be BRAVE, it's a jungle out there! Each ward selected an animal to represent themselves. We are the Giraffes. I loved the way this stake designed their Yellow and Grey Brave sign. (Found Here) It's been fun to come up with all kinds of ways of including this theme into our presentation. For our Camp Kick Off Night the YCLS have decided to go a little tribal :). Here are some images I found online for inspiration. The YCLS skit is mainly to entertain the girls, get them excited about camp, and motivate any 1st time girls who are nervous about coming or girls who have had a bad experience as to why they should be looking forward to this year's camp. After all its going to be the best year ever! Each of the YCLS will take turns presenting their skit, our themes, leading the music, etc. We will have on display some of the crafts we will be making this year at camp, Secret Sister Surveys, Permission slips, a packing list, and a few munchies. I think its going to be a great night! I plan on using the S'more cupcakes (click here for recipe), something to drink, and maybe some dipped fruit. Our Ward theme to go along with It's a Jungle Out There is Girl on Fire. We had lots of fun creating the invites for camp kick off. Here's a picture. It's basically an arrow with some tags stating the themes for camp and the date and time for camp kick off. For the arrow invite how to click here! I also created a Secret Sister Survey which is basically just a questionnaire each girl can fill out that night. That way when we exchange names the girls will be armed with a little extra information while trying to decide what they want to do for their secret sister. Wish me luck! Click Here for the Free Printable Origami Hearts for Secret Sister Name Swap Click here to see full article DIY Lanterns Click here to see full article Camp T-Shirts Click here to see full article Pillow Treats and Downtime Activities Click here to see full article Secret Sister Tin Can Mailboxes Click here to see full article Camp Scrapbook Click here to see full article Chili Off for Food Related Certification Click here to see full article Dutch Oven How To: Cornbread Camp Food Certification Click here to see full article Oreo S'mores Click here to see full article Popcorn and Treat Bags for Skit Night Click here to see full article Upcycled Candy Jars Click here to see full article Mock Disaster Click here to see full article Shrinky Dink Trading Pins for Stake YW Camp: A Quick How To Click here to see full article Trading Pins for Camp Lanyards Click here to see full article Toasted Marshmallow Milkshake Click here to see full article Carnival Fundraiser & Silent Auction Click here to see full article Braided Hex Nut Bracelet Craft Click here to see full article Overnight Hike Reminder Click here to see full article Easy Peasy No Zipper Pillow Covers Click here to see full article Here is a picture of the flowers we used on each of our tables in the cabins as centerpieces. Personal Progress Holder Click here to see full article Braided Fabric Headbands Click here to see full article Daughter of God Week: Mission Possible Style Click here to see full article. Daughter of God Week Day 1 Click here to see full article Daughter of God Week Day 2 Click here to see full article Daughter of God Week Day 3 Click here to see full article Daughter of God Week Day 4 Click here to see full article Daughter of God Week Day 5 Click here for the full article Daughter of God Week Day 6 Click here to see full article Daughter of God Week Day 7 Click here to see full article I LOVE The Stake! Click here to see full article I can't wait for camp, Only 5 more days! The first day up we are bringing a lunch. I wanted something that was just a little cuter than a brown paper bag. I thought these were simple and fun. I just used regular brown paper sacks and printed the hooray on them on my home printer. Aren't these girls AMAZING! Secret Sister Gift Ideas This year was kind of a fun year for the girls. It was just a ward camp, so super low key and nice. It was a short camp, so Madelaine only had to come up with a few Secret Sister gifts. We used her sister's personal questionnaire to come up with the ideas.
Young Men/Young Women combined missionary activity to do during a midweek activity night | She's Crafty | www.shescraftycrafty.com | #youthactivity #youngwomenactivity #midweekactivityidea
It's time for a new year and a new youth theme. This is an awesome theme and scripture for our youth today. Here we go! I am a disciple of Jesus ChristLast year I put our theme Kick-off night on here for all of you. This year I'm planning ahead and posting this early. So not everything has been tried and tested with a group of Young Women - but it has been tested by myself and my own YW daughter.Opening ExercisesBegin the night with a prayer, the young women theme followed by the NEW THEME SONG
Over the past few months I've been asked to teach etiquette to young men and young women 2 different times. This has been a fun experience to reflect and write down what I know and do a little research. I'm thankful my parents and grandparents were strict with good manners when I was young. I didn't appreciate it at the time, but now that I'm older and teaching my children I can see the benefit of learning good manners. Good manners don't happen over night. It takes years of training. YM & YW need to know the basics! Most basics are not taught or enforced at home. Teach and educate them NOW and set them up for a "polite" future. These are my typed up notes of what I went over and demonstrated. We had a 4 course meal at one activity with both YM & YW and a "tea party" at another with just the YW. The 4 course meal included Soup Salad Entree Dessert The Tea Party Cookies Mini Cupcakes Small sandwiches Crackers and dip Hot Chocolate Hot Tang/Juice _________________________________ INTRO - Why do we need good manners? Why do we need good manners? Are we not all children of a King? We are all princes and princesses and are expected to behave as such. We need to act with the utmost decorum for dates, meeting future in-laws, business dinners, dances and more. Presenting yourself properly, and behaving in a dignified manner is what being royal is all about. First impressions last a lifetime whether it's over a meal or in public. Sitting in a chair Sit up straight - DON'T SLOUCH (it's not attractive) (Demonstrate how silly a forward and backward slouch looks) When sitting ESPECIALLY in a dress or skirt, KNEES SHOULD BE TOUCHING! (Your underwear may be cute, but we really don't want to see it!) Table Etiquette - Serving and being served When setting the table, knife blades should always be facing the plate. Present an average table setting or have the youth set their own place and tell them what is right and what is wrong. (2 forks, 2 spoons, 1 knife, napkin, dinner plate, salad plate, bread plate, water glass) When going to a fancier restaurant and seeing lots of silverware - just remember WORK YOUR WAY FROM THE OUTSIDE IN. Serve from the LEFT REMOVE from the RIGHT Pass food in a counterclockwise motion or to the RIGHT "It is always the RIGHT way when passing food" DO NOT BEGIN EATING UNTIL EVERYONE IS SERVED! Hold your utensil properly. (Do not act as if you are shoveling the food into your mouth.) When finished with your plate, do not push it away or place your napkin on top. Act as if your plate was the face of a clock, you would place both handles of your utensils on the number 4. If you have to yawn....COVER YOUR MOUTH! Nothing is attractive about a HUGE gaping mouth open wide for all to see! COVER YOUR MOUTH! *Say you're on a first or important date, you may want to keep in mind, some foods are messier to eat than others. What would you rather? A clean face with something you can use utensils? Or something that is messy or you have to eat with your hands? First impressions last a lifetime. Top 10 Basic Table Manners 1. Chew with your mouth closed 2. Avoid slurping, smacking, blowing your nose or other gross noises. (If necessary, excuse yourself to take care of whatever it is you need to take care of.) 3. Hold your utensil properly, don't stab or shovel your food. 4. Don't pick your teeth at the table. 5. Remember to use your napkin at all times. 6. Wait until you're done chewing to sip or swallow a drink. (No floaties allowed!) (The exception is if you're choking - please drink if you're choking) 7. Cut no more than 3 pieces of food at a time. (The most logical answer of why, is so your food doesn't get cold!) 8. Avoid slouching and placing your elbows on the table while eating. (Although it is okay to prop your elbows on the table while conversing between courses) 9. Instead of reaching across the table for something, ask for it to be passed to you. 10. Always say 'excuse me' whenever you leave the table. _________________________ Having good manners in LIFE! BE RESPECTFUL TO EVERYONE We always need to respect the golden rule. "Treat others the way you want to be treated." Young, Old, Male & Female. Rumors and gossip is sadly part of life. But... it is YOUR CHOICE whether you want to participate in the continuous spreading of those rumors. How would you feel if those rumors were about you? Respecting others and seeing those around your with God's eyes will change your perspective and bring you joy. Make sure all of your interactions with those around you reflect positive feedback- not negative. Everyone around you are always watching. You may not realize how much you are under the microscope. Would your parents be pleased with your actions? Would your bad habits and manners affect your future children? Most importantly, how would your Father in Heaven think of your words and actions? "It's never RIGHT to do WRONG" "It's never WRONG to do RIGHT" The perfect example of how you should act and behave was our Savior Jesus Christ. Ask yourself in ANY situation, "What would Jesus do?" Smile and BE HAPPY! Everyone gravitates towards happiness. Be a MAGNET! Shine your smile and have a happy disposition. No one wants to be around others who always find bad in the world. Gratitude is the true base of happiness. PUNCTUALITY! Being punctual or "on time" is polite. Tardiness or always running late is rude. It shows your lack of preparation. Plan and prepare ahead of time. How long is the drive to the destination? How long does it take to get ready? (Always take into consideration that it takes at least 2-3 minutes to put on your shoes and get in the car before you actually start to drive.) Girls, be ready for your date when they have specified. It is extremely akward for a date to wait over 5 minutes for you. Boys, always be on time. There is nothing worse than waiting on your date to arrive. (I would know- my date showed up 1 hour late for HOMECOMING! I WAS TICKED! Not a good way to start the evening) PHONES Cell phones are an amazing tool. They keep us connected to those around us. But phones are a HUGE distraction. You may physically be in an area, but when scrolling through facebook or pinterest keeps you mentally from the conversation and the space you are literally in. Phone usage needs to be practically eliminated during dates, dinners and family activities. You can't gain the experiences everyone posts on facebook if you're always on the phone and never out making them. APPAREL You may not realize that you appearance can come across as polite or rude. Be confident and comfortable in your apparel but, don't wear things that are too tight, baggy, or show too much skin. There is a proper way to dress. And showing off your body or not even getting ready are not polite. Wearing pajamas, yoga pants, sweat pants, basketball shorts etc. are a sign of laziness and lack of preparation. Wake up 1 minute earlier and throw on some JEANS for goodness sakes! Don't be looked upon as lazy or unkept. Manners at the table and manners in life will keep you polite and positive. Remember- Practice makes Perfect _______________________________________ This was a VERY fun activity and I think a good reminder to youth and adults to always have good manners in life and at the table. When practiced and used regularly, good etiquette lasts a lifetime.
4x6 Charity printable halloween-bingo-printable-yellow halloween-bingo-printable-blue halloween-bingo-printable-purple moderator-card halloween-bingo-printable-red halloween-bingo-printable-green halloween-bingo-printable-orange Coral sheet of chews to be a leader Purple sheet of chews to be a leader
If you're looking for some LDS Girls Camp ideas, then you're at the right place. Here's everything you need to host girls camp.
Play The Category Game for Latter-day Saints at your next youth activity night or Family Home Evening!
While I was working on my calendar for 2013 I planned a bookmark to go along with this year’s theme for the youth in our church. Because of the size I planned the calendar to be I thought I w…
Did you know mothers of YW can earn their own Young Womanhood Recognition ? Well you (that is if you are a mother of a YW ) can! Check out ...
There are plenty of activities for camp, and one of the best activities is incorporating funny camp skits. These funny camp skits are sure to get a laugh!
This activity was developed because a group of youth wanted to have a bonfire as their combined activity. They made it clear they just wanted time to "kick back" and "chill". What I heard was, "I challenge you to find a lesson in that!" I love the challenge of finding a way to teach and inspire in everything we do. ** This is what I like to call "Bad Habit Bonfire" or "Bad Habits No S'more". :) * PURPOSE To challenge those involved to get rid of the bad habits they may have. Helping them understand that as they do this it will "ignite the light" they have inside of them. Encourage them to let their light (personal testimonies) shine by developing good habits, making wise choices, and being a good example to others. * ACTIVITY * BONFIRE As leaders, we left it up to the youth to build the fire. We were hoping that the skills they have learned through the girl's camp and scouting programs would shine. :) And they did! * DEVOTIONAL Brie, prepared and shared the following devotional. It was perfect. "Many years ago, large packs of wolves roamed the countryside in Ukraine, making travel in that part of the world very dangerous. These wolf packs were fearless. They were not intimidated by people nor by any of the weapons available at that time. The only thing that seemed to frighten them was fire. Consequently, travelers who found themselves away from cities developed the common practice of building a large bonfire and keeping it burning through the night. As long as the fire burned brightly, the wolves stayed away. But if it were allowed to burn out and die, the wolves would move in for an attack. Travelers understood that building and maintaining a roaring bonfire was not just a matter of convenience or comfort; it was a matter of survival." * We do not have to protect ourselves from wolf pack as we travel the road of life today, but, in a spiritual sense, we do face the devious wolves of Satan in the forms of temptation, evil, and sin. We live in dangerous times when these wolves roam the spiritual countryside in search of those who may be weak in faith or feeble in their conviction. Peter described our "adversary the devil, as a roaring lion that walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). The Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith that "enemies prowl around thee like wolves for the blood of the lamb" (Doctrine and Covenants 12:6). We are all vulnerable to attack. However, we can fortify ourselves with the protection provided by a burning testimony that, like a bonfire, has been built adequately and maintained carefully. * Because none of us are perfect, we all make mistakes and create bad habits. These bad habits and sins can be like a bucket of water on our burning testimonies if we don't repent. By taking the time to cleanse ourselves spiritually, we can grow and become stronger. * Joseph B. Wirthlin has three suggestions for building your personal bonfire (testimony): First - FAITH in Jesus Christ Second - humble, sincere REPENTANCE (sin is like a bucket of water) Third - follow the example of the SAVIOR Remember the promise that God has given to those who build and maintain brightly burning bonfires of testimony to counter wolves that threaten us. This is His promise: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." (Isaiah 41:10) * (Brie shared personal testimony) I know that through faith, our testimonies can grow and not only help us spiritually, but could also help those around us. I know that we all need the strength to keep ourselves safe, but through Heavenly Father and His promises, I know everything will work out. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. The devotional ended with everyone picking up a leaf, a piece of paper, or a twig. These items represented a bad habit(s) they wanted to rid themselves of. They threw them into the fire. * Then everyone created their own "Bad Habits No S'more". We also made dough boys. Delish! * * RESOURCES for the DEVOTIONAL Spiritual Bonfires of Testimony, Joseph B Wirthlin, New Era, June 2002 Breaking Bad Habits, Idea List, New Era, September 2002 Feed the Flame, New Era, July 1997 Cast Your Burden Upon the Lord, Elder Robert L Simpson, New Era, January 1977 * THE REST OF THE NIGHT The remainder of the the evening was devoted to "kickin' back" and enjoying good company. The pool was available, but they were too busy shooting baskets on the court, playing a little ultimate volleyball, and passing the football, rugby style. Good times! * REFRESHMENTS As I mentioned, we made good ol' fashioned s'mores and dough boys. But just in case (for whatever reason) you need a recipe or two for your bonfire, I've found a few variations of the wonderful s'more. :) * Golden Grahams S'more Bars recipe here * Oooey, Gooey S'more Bars recipe found here * S'mores Bars recipe found here * Campfire Cookies recipe found here * S'more Brownies recipe found here * S'mores Cupcakes recipe found here * S'more Ice Cream Sandwich recipe found here * Frozen S'more Pops recipe found here * S'more Whoopie Pies recipe found here * TAKE-A-WAY Every one was given a roasting stick at the end of the night. The tag has the "Ignite the Light" logo along with this scripture Ether 12:27: “If men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; … for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." * You can purchase both Handout (x4/page) and Logo (x6/page) here $2.00 for both. Instant Digital Download. Make as many copies as you would like. Would make for a great YW Camp activity! ** * THANK YOU GIFT We had a family in the ward, who was good enough to let us use their backyard (more like a park) for our activity. To thank them, I picked up an outdoor candle, tied it up with ribbon, and added the "Ignite the Light" onto the lid. Simple. * DIY S'more Kits idea found here
Click here to download YCL Leadership Training Workshop Packet LEADERSHIP: Teach – Testify – Experience What makes a good Leader? What does it mean to be a Youth Camp Leader? Gain Res…
Activities and Combined Activities Mutual Activities After brief opening exercises, Young Women and Young Men activities are usually held separately. Class or quorum activities usually last 30 to 7…
Cootie Bedroll Game: (I didn't make this up, but I can't remember where I found it...) Demonstrate a proper bedroll first. Split the group into teams. Each team has a dice (I made big ones out of cubes of foam and put the dots on with Sharpie markers) 1 spot = ground sheet 2 spot = sleeping bag 3 spot = p.j.'s and toque 4 spot = extra blanket/pillow 5 spot = roll up 6 spot = rope & tie-off The girls work as a team and roll the dice. They cannot do a step in bedroll prep until the spot has been rolled i.e. the team MUST roll a one first, then cannot do the next step until a two is rolled, etc. Makes for lots of jumping and screaming when a few teams are trying to win. Of course - acknowledgment of the winner is essential. Then the girls proceed to complete their own if they have brought all the proper gear. Handouts: I made up 4x6 handouts for most of the certification items. The idea is that you print them, laminate them and punch a hole in the top. Then with a small metal ring you can attach them to a backpack. This handout has two sides.
Through the faith walk I put on for the young women in my stake, I realized more than ever that the Savior is our beacon in the night.
Handout:
Looking for youth camp themes that your teenagers will actually enjoy? This list includes 15 epic youth camp themes complete with scriptures to back them up.
The theme for our youth conference was B.O.O.T camp..Building Our Own Testimony I was asked to make the "dog tags". I have never used wate...
Being in charge of girls camp food for a large number of people is no joke. Here's how I did it. Learn from my mistakes and successes.
My friend Corina is in Young Womens. She made a fantastic set of certificates for the young women and leaders to award after Girls Camp and was generous enough to share them! Thanks so much, Corina, I
Here is a great end-of-summer Mutual Activity, the classic slip-&-slide. When I was in California I saw a great one at a Stake Pioneer Day Celebration. It was about 45 feet long, and ran down a…
We had our New Beginnings last night. It was a fun casual night. The theme of our Night was Adventure Awaits... Come see what the YW will be "UP" to in 2013 We will be using this theme along with the Stand in Holy places throughout the year. I Love President Monsons Talk Your Celestial Journey I thought it went perfect with our Adventure theme. Gaze upward, Look inward- This is where I introduced the YW values and the purpose of Personal Progress Reach outward, and Press forward. Jane found a bunch of these old suit cases at a local thrift shop. We painted the outside and then modpodged cute scrapbook paper on the inside. This is where everyone first came in. The suitcase had the program for the night, and also a little packet of what is going on in 2013. For our SKIT- We had one of the Laurels dress like Russell from the movie up. She had a little sash. The other laurels each talked about a YW value. She would then pin that value on "russells" sash. I just let each Laurel decide what she was going to do for her Value. They were really cute and some of them were pretty dang funny. I wish I had a script of what they said! I had this globe that I thought would work perfect for our year. I put on sticker letters and then spray painted the globe white. Peeled off the stickers then to reveal the stand in holy places. I put this globe out every Sunday. The girls sign in with things that they have done throughout the week to "stand in Holy Places" it has been fun to see what they have written on it. (Seminary, Sports, FHE, Temple attendance, activities with friends etc...) I used 2 build-a-bear boxes for my UP house. I cut one in half to do the porch side of the house. I then covered it with Scrapbook paper I had on hand. (build-a-bear was so nice and just gave me the 2 boxes for free) I forgot to take a picture of our cute food table until it was almost gone... We had cute little make your own fruit pizza's. We had fruit in all the YW value colors (Pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, mandarin oranges, blueberries, purple grapes, golden bananas, and the frosting was white) For the new beehives coming in 2013 we gave a cute little 7-up (original idea found at Marci Coombs blog), and UP2You gum. We had each laurel "interview" a new girl asking her simple questions like her favorite color, subject in school, what kind of animal she would be, what she's most looking forward to about YW etc... We are giving the girls these cute little bottle cap necklaces for their birthdays this year. They are like the cute lil bottle cap pin Ellie gives Carl in the Movie UP. I found them at Hobby Lobby and just used metal stamps to put their initial In my talk I talked about how anywhere we stand can be a holy place. (which is the general YW theme this year) We gave each girl her own lil adventure book. We challenged them to fill it up this year with all their adventures. A place they could put little handouts, pictures of YW activities, notes from lessons, anything that reminds them of all the places they "STAND". My Bishop in his closing remarks talked about the Adventure book in the movie. He said that in the beginning they put the picture of Where they thought their adventure would be. But at the end of the movie Carl finally sees that Ellie had put the adventures of their everyday lives. He said we should make everyday good and something we are proud of. I thought it was cute he Tied in the movie with his remarks (: I got these smash books on such a good clearance sale at twopeasinabucket. We added alittle pocket in the front where the girls can put handouts if they'd like. Here is an outline of our program Here are a few things we put in their little packet. Things we will be "UP" to this next year And here are the invites incase you missed the previous post. We rolled them up and attached them to balloons!
