FHE, Family Prayer, and Scripture Study

Mom and Dad were determined to teach us the gospel and “raise us up in the way we should go”, including by holding regular Family Home Evening (FHE), family scripture study, and family prayer. It was obvious growing up how challenging this was with eight kids. We trickled in when called, sometimes “kicking and screaming”, and when some took longer than others to arrive, those who arrived first became frustrated and sometimes tried to leave. We all seemed to take turns grumbling as if we’d made up a schedule and divvied up the duties. We each took a turn praying, reading the scriptures, and handling the various FHE duties including prayer, song, lesson, game, and treat. Having been a parent for a few years now, I realize how admirable Mom’s & Dad’s valiance was in holding these activities regularly. I feel the way others do who have said I may not remember any particular FHE lesson or prayer offered, or any scripture read, but I do remember the pattern Mom and Dad set for us of spiritual learning, and of their valiance in doing that, and it is something to which I think we all aspire.

Related to this, I recall when I was eight years old we were challenged to read the Book of Mormon. I don’t recall for sure, but I believe it was a challenge issued to our ward, or at least amongst a few families. I know our family took the challenge to heart and we all to some degree or other began reading it. I got particularly excited and spent much of my free time reading the Book of Mormon. Most days I’d read many pages, it became a competition for me to try to be the first one to finish reading it. I recall the pride I felt as I finished reading the book and did so for me in what seemed like record time. I’m sure Mom & Dad stoked my fire by encouraging me in this effort.