Towards the end of 2013, John Bytheway and I flew together to Temecula, CA and both spoke at a Mid Single's Conference. He told me a story that I will never forget, and by 'never forget' I mean, I mostly forgot the story, but not the message, haha (My apologies to John for butchering your story).

As the first prophet of the Restoration, Joseph Smith had a lot of questions about how to organize Christ's church upon the earth. And from these questions came an incredible outpouring of visions and revelations. So it is no wonder that when Joseph and Oliver Cowdery had a question about baptism, the answer would usher in the glorious restoration of the Aaronic priesthood upon the earth. In this week’s study group, we’ll study Doctrine and Covenants sections 12–13 and Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75 to discover how the restoration of the priesthood helps us build Zion in the latter days.

Dr. LaShawn C. Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Relational Change Strategist focusing on the interactions between people and across differences where connection matters most. Her anti-oppression work centers on the effects of marginalization, isolation, and disconnection in personal and professional spaces. She specializes in interpersonal and organizational change from the margins to the center. Grounded in Relational Cultural Theory, Dr. Williams works with leaders at every organizational level to help them engage the taboo concepts of interpersonal shame and humiliation then commuting to create pathways toward mutual empathy and empowerment. She is an accessible consultant to local, regional, and national organizations. She is passionate about Relational Transformation and eagerly supports individuals, couples, families and groups through her practice, Relational Spaces at The Utah Center for Connection in Orem.

The Urim and Thummim consists of two seer stones or interpreters used by selected prophets throughout the ages. In ancient Israel the stones were part of the breastplate worn by the high priest of the Aaronic Priesthood. According to lds.org, the Urim and Thummim is “an instrument prepared of God to assist man in obtaining revelation from the Lord and in translating languages.” The website also states that the name Urim and Thummim is Hebrew for “lights and perfections” and that “there is more than one Urim and Thummim, but we are informed that Joseph Smith had the one used by the brother of Jared” (See D&C 17:1).

Sister Ardeth Kapp was never able to have children, but she recalls how a prophet’s blessing setting her apart gave her peace about her situation.

From the Philippines to Canada and Portugal to Brazil, learn more about the new mission presidents and their wives called by the Church.

We’ve Inherited Their Genetic Metabolism. This Makes Us Fat in a Sugary, Fast Food World.

40% discounts available to Latter-day Saint writers, editors, filmmakers, musicians, artists and others using code “LDSLIVING”

Broadway stars Matthew Morrison and Laura Michelle Kelly will join the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square for “Music for a Summer Evening,” a concert held annually in conjunction with community-wide Pioneer Day celebrations. This special Broadway-themed concert will be held on Friday and Saturday, July 20 and 21, at 8:00 p.m. in the Conference Center and will be conducted by Mack Wilberg, music director of the Choir, and Ryan Murphy, associate music director.

The two performing groups have united to bring a powerful musical moment to both of their fan bases. Watch the gorgeous new video here: