“A spiritual dimension is truly added to our lives when we work on our family histories.
Sisters in Zion, could there be a more rewarding calling than to labor in the Lord’s vineyard for the salvation of souls? We have the choice privilege of strengthening families and influencing those who have been placed in our care, as well as those who have preceded us beyond the veil. Lest we think the task is too hard, be reminded that angels will be round about us to bear us up if we are willing to do our part. The promised blessings are almost more than we can imagine.
” Joanne B. Doxey
“Strengthening the Family”
General Conference October 1987
In the last 2 weeks, we have spent a lot of time focusing on the non-“grave hunting” way to participate in family history, but today, I want to take a minute to share my testimony of doing family history research. The hands on, census searching, newspaper reading, up till 3am kind of research.
Researching your family lines is rarely easy, but as Sister Doxey mentioned in the quote above, “The promised blessings are almost more than we can imagine.” I can personally testify that that is absolutely TRUE. Attending the temple with a name in hand of an ancestor that you have personally researched and sought out can be an extremely powerful experience. But even as I speak these words, I am hesitant to describe my personal blessings that have come from the time that I have spent researching my ancestors, because in my humble opinion, one of the most beautiful aspects of family history is what seems to be the PERSONALIZED blessings that come from it. I may have had the opportunity to experience a unique bond to an ancestor of mine in the temple, but your efforts could lead to very different blessings. I speak to people every day about family history work and I cannot begin to express the COUNTLESS stories of miracles and healing that come specifically from family history research.
I am not here to tell you that it is your “season” for family history research, but I cannot continue to share my love for this work without sharing the undeniable blessings that come from the task of seeking out our deceased ancestors and performing their temple work.
Are you feeling the tug to start researching your ancestors, but don’t know where to start? I have some exciting news for you! We have started a FREE Facebook Group that is specifically there for you to ASK questions, help others, and celebrate our victories. We know all too well that this aspect of family history can be challenging, but the rewards are more than worth the work.
Facebook Group –> facebook.com/groups/seasonforfamily
Now tell us, if you are new to family history, what is your biggest fear/challenge/obstacle with researching your ancestors? If you have been around the block, share your testimony with others!
CAROLYNN REYNOLDS