Presidency Message- Press Forward/Hold Fast

     This past month we said good-bye to Joyce Scalf as she passed away.  I remember when Joyce joined the church. It was announced at church that she was getting baptized and there was a gasp.  She had been coming with Dick for so long and hadn’t really let on that she was going to get baptized soon.   Some of the newer people didn’t even realize she wasn’t a member.   I was sad that I didn’t get to say good-bye to her. I would like a chance to do a “do over” and talk to her that last time more than just signing up for a missionary meal.   Sometimes grief is an interesting thing.  We have faith that everything will be all right but that does not do away with our need to grieve.  Even Jesus, with his perfect faith, wept when he learned of the death of Lazarus.  We know that in our baptismal covenants that we promise to be willing to bear one another’s burdens.  I saw that demonstrated the day of Joyce’s funeral with her visiting teachers and friends. They organized and made the meal, provided the music for the service and grieved with the family.  Elder Wirthlin said,   “Those who journey to higher ground love the Lord with all their hearts. …They also love Heavenly Father’s children, and their lives manifest that love. They care for their brothers and sisters. They nurture, serve, and sustain their spouses and children. In the spirit of love and kindness, they build up those around them. They give freely of their substance to others. They mourn with those that mourn and comfort those that stand in need of comfort.”  In the purpose of Relief Society is says “The pure love of Christ continues to motivate Relief Society sisters today as they gather to teach and serve one another and as they strengthen and watch over each other one by one.”  I know Joyce and her family felt loved by her Relief Society Sisters. I hope all of our sisters feel that love. –Teresa Vincent