Tuesday, October 26, 2010

General Conference Traditions




Twice each year, we have the opportunity to hear the word of God from his leaders: the Prophets and Apostles. In our family, we look forward to the General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, almost more than Christmas because of the peaceful feeling that enters our home, the traditions that accompany this special event, and the love and unity we feel towards members of the church all over the world.

On General Conference Sunday (and Saturday!) this is how we look.... much more relaxed...I had to beg the kids to get dressed....I don't bother asking Ben to get dressed...he makes it known that he will stay in his pj's all day.

In the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin spoke to his people and taught them the things of God. His people gathered their families and pitched their tents with the door facing towards the king so they could hear him speak.

Building a tent is part of our tradition too!

Because we want our children to know and love the Prophets and Apostles, we try to make General Conference full of special traditions (some spiritual and others just fun)

Stringing Licorice with Froot-Loops for Bracelets

When all of the children were little, we tried to think of things that could keep them busy so we could listen, uninterrupted, to Conference. Now, even though a few of them are old enough to listen, they still enjoy some of these traditions.

Snuggling with Mom.
(This is one of the ONLY times Mom sits down during the daylight hours so it is a rare treat)

Each child picks their own jar of babyfood to eat as a treat... (more about this later)

Coloring Conference Bingo Cards

Who doesn't love a good game of bingo? Conference Bingo has the children listen for subjects that are featured on the bingo cards (prayer, scripture study, pioneers, family, temples....). I am always amazed at the things even Hyrum can understand about what is being taught by the Prophets and Apostles.

We all love President Monson, the Prophet!


When the babyfood is consumed, the jars are washed and filled with cream and salt.

The children then shake their jar until the cream becomes butter.


This usually takes awhile so it's a good activity to do while listening.


Voila! Butter and Buttermilk!

Silly and Spiritual traditions. Whatever it takes to build family memories and celebrate the two best times of the year....General Conference spring and autumn!

If you want to know what the Prophets and Apostles spoke about visit
www.lds.org
and click on October General Conference




4 comments:

Lincoln Farrell and Marilyn Barlow said...

Love the traditions but can't wait to hear more about the baby food -hmmmmmmmm.

Matthew said...

Why don't you have a picture of Ben eating the baby food? Was he too busy biting the puffs off of the popcorn?

Angela said...

Sounds like a fun day- I personally don't always get out of my pj's on Sunday's either so I think you should definitely let your whole family be lazy for a day- it's fun! The butter thing...too much work for myself but very clever. Would never have thought of it.

Charlene and Dean's Blog said...

Barlow Family,
I remember some of those traditions from your childhood. I always loved conference time, and was sad when conference was over. Love you all......