Bishopric Message – January 2021

Dear Ward:

Wonderful news, we are coming back to church.  As we return there are still safety guidelines that will be followed to limit the risk and provide some safety for our friends and families as we return to meeting together to uplift and strengthen each other.  We will limit the in-person attendance to 99 individuals in Sacrament meeting and continue our 2nd hour being conducted virtually. 

Sacrament service will continue to be broadcast through the church broadcast system and the families that choose to remain at home can continue to prepare and partake of the sacrament at home.

This Sunday is Ward Conference.  The Conference Theme is: “The Necessity of Personal Inspiration and Revelation” based on Doctrine and Covenants 42:61.

61 If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive ^arevelation upon revelation, ^bknowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the ^cmysteries and ^dpeaceable things—that which bringeth ^ejoy, that which bringeth life eternal.

D&C 42:61

We are starting a new year, 2021 is here.  Let us start this new year with vigor and vitality, putting the trials of 2020 behind us as we remember our tender mercies from 2020. 

I’m so very grateful to the Lord for his support, comfort, and love during this past year.  I have leaned on Him and He has been there as my family has navigated the challenges of this existence.  As we continue to turn toward Him, He will support us in our efforts to improve our situations, one step at a time, moment by moment, day by day. 

Thank you for your patience with me as we navigate these unique times and work on continually organizing our ward.  I look forward to this new year as another starting point, a time to recommit to doing a little better, a little more.  I hope to continue to improve my relationship with my Savior, my wife, and my family.  I look forward to that day when I will hear the loving voice of the Savior say: “Well done thou good and faithful servant,.. enter into the rest of the Lord.”  But this day is not yet here.  There is still much to be done.  I look forward to the years to come as I continually watch for His return.  

I’m always telling myself and my kids that I will live to be 110 years old.  This helps me to stay young and not afraid to live.  It helps provide an optimistic perspective for my future and also allows me to visualize a time far off so I can plan my life without limitation.  Then if my life is cut short and I’m called home, I will be ready and hopefully not have any regrets. 

The Lord leads the church through our living prophet, President Nelson.  Your Savior is aware of you.  Learn to take him into your confidence and trust in him.

We love you and hope that you are doing well despite the pandemic that still disrupts our lives.  I have attached the Sunday School newsletter for January.

Love,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org
• “Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric Message – February 2021

Hear Him to Find Peace During Turbulent Times – President Nelson

Dear Friends and Members:

During this time of continued isolation, we need to understand how to remain physically distant while staying socially, emotionally connected.  Each one of us has experienced this pandemic in similar ways. 

Think about this. 

This is the only time in history where everyone in the world is experiencing the same things at the same time.  This pandemic has affected every human being around the world in a similar fashion.  Altogether we have felt the limiting effects of wearing a mask.  Altogether we have felt the increasing fear of what might be coming or fear of the future.  We have together witnessed the social withdraw from society as our youth have experienced isolation while at school, isolation from large social interactions, and isolation from individual social relationships.  All mankind is experiencing this pandemic.  I’m reminded that we are social beings and “It is not good for man to be alone.”

In an Area Priesthood Leadership meeting, held on Saturday, January 23rd, Elder Ballard encouraged us as Bishops to, as sons and daughters, gather together to:

• Put your arm around your loved ones and thank them for their support.  If you are single please place your arm around your Father in Heaven because he is close, He loves you.
• He expressed, we have a duty to watch over our own and the whole world. 
• He blessed us that we will fill with his love and feel strengthened in our work.
• He pleaded with us to turn to your Heavenly Father about your troubles, in your prayers, and lean on him. 
• He testified Jesus Christ loves you, this is his church and he watches over it and is close.
• He requested we return and report through payer, expressing gratitude for the blessings and miracles in our lives.
• He wants us to understand our own way of how we “Hear Him.”

In my study of our Sunday School Lessons, I have found much peace in reading the Doctrine Covenants this past week.  Especially Section 6. 

32 Verily, verily, I say unto you, as I said unto my disciples, where two or three are gathered together in my name, as ^atouching ^bone thing, behold, there will I be in the ^cmidst of them—even so am I in the ^dmidst of you.

33 ^aFear not to do ^bgood, my sons, for whatsoever ye ^csow, that shall ye also reap; therefore, if ye sow ^dgood ye shall also reap good for your ^ereward.

34 Therefore, fear not, little ^aflock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are ^bbuilt upon my rock, they cannot prevail.

35 Behold, I do not condemn you; go your ways and ^asin no more; perform with soberness the work which I have commanded you.

36 ^aLook unto me in every ^bthought; ^cdoubt not, fear not.

D&C 6:32-37

As we learn how to gather together the Lord will be in the midst of us.  We need not fear, come what may.

We have so much to be grateful for.  I’m grateful for my wife and family.  I’m thankful for the Lord preparing a path for me to start my new second career.  I’m grateful to him for the illnesses I have experienced over this past year because of the truth that was found by the experience.  I recognize my shortcomings but know that the Lord accepts me for who I am now, yet encourages me to better myself by reaching out to others. 

I have seen so many discouraged and ready to give up.  In their time of despair, I have seen the comforting and healing influence of the spirit touch their lives because their hearts are tender and soft.  I testify that the Lord is using this pandemic/social isolation to soften the hearts of man, so they can see truth and light in the Savior of all mankind. 

2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into ^adivers ^btemptations;

3 Knowing this, that the ^atrying of your faith worketh ^bpatience.

4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be ^aperfect and entire, wanting nothing.

James 1:2-4

Let us “look unto” Him “in every thought, doubt not, fear not.”  Knowing that he is “watching over us and is close.”

I testify that our Savior, Jesus Christ, knows you and I.  He understands the pains of mortality and has overcome it all, that we too might be lifted up and return back to live with him in our father’s mansions.  He loves you and is here to take our burdens from us if we but turn to him.  His atonement is enough for all if we place our fears upon him, we will find comfort.

I love and care for each and every one of you,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org

“Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric Message – March 2021

This month the pandemic will hit its one-year anniversary.  Many people have lived in fear, not seeing much hope.  Isolation has impacted everyone at some level, of which we don’t know of its lasting effects.  Now the COVID-19 infection numbers are dropping, access to the vaccine is expanding, restrictions are gradually being lifted.  Spring is just around the corner, bringing warmer weather and outside activities.  There have many reasons to look forward with hope and optimism, looking forward to the blessing that our Father in Heaven is waiting to shower upon us. 

I noticed that during this pandemic, many found more free time as society slowed down.  I remember feeling it was nice to slow down and not be rushed.  I enjoyed the quiet time, time to ponder and study.  It is during these times of quiet that the spirit teaches me and testified of truth and light.

During this time, did you find yourself withdrawing and self-isolating?  The advisory uses the “noise” of this existence to distract us from the quiet, still small voice of the spirit.  Do you listen to the noise or get distracted by it?

What did you do to lift yourself or care for yourself?  Have you found new ways to serve others?  What blessings have you identified?  Do you continue to exercise your faith with patience, placing our burdens, anxieties, and shortcomings upon the Lord?

The church produced a presentation titled: “2021 Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction“

During this presentation Elder Bednar of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles and Elder Hamilton of the Seventy referred to a quote from our Prophet, President Nelson in his the April 2020 address, “Hear Him”: 

“I promise that as you increase your time in temple and family history work, you will increase and improve your ability to hear Him.

We also hear Him more clearly as we refine our ability to recognize the whisperings of the Holy Ghost. It has never been more imperative to know how the Spirit speaks to you than right now. In the Godhead, the Holy Ghost is the messenger. He will bring thoughts to your mind which the Father and Son want you to receive. He is the Comforter. He will bring a feeling of peace to your heart. He testifies of truth and will confirm what is true as you hear and read the word of the Lord.

I renew my plea for you to do whatever it takes to increase your spiritual capacity to receive personal revelation.

Doing so will help you know how to move ahead with your life, what to do during times of crisis, and how to discern and avoid the temptations and the deceptions of the adversary.

And, finally, we hear Him as we heed the words of prophets, seers, and revelators. Ordained Apostles of Jesus Christ always testifies of Him. They point the way as we make our way through the heart-wrenching maze of our mortal experiences.”

President Russell M. Nelson – From <https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/04/45nelson?lang=eng>

We know-how important it is to have personal revelation.  Now our living prophet encourages us to “increase your spiritual capacity to receive personal revelation.” 

He continues to emphasize how “imperative” it is to know how the Spirit speaks to us.  He has asked leaders to testify how they “Hear Him” and asks the question of us.

How do you “Hear Him”?

We have been taught great lessons these past few weeks both in our sacrament meetings and our second-hour meetings.  Our learning has expanded as we have taken time to ponder these messages in our homes.

Elder Bednar taught, “Faith in the Lord Jesus of Christ is a principle of Action and Power.  1st we act in accordance with the teachings of Jesus.  Then we are blessed with the power of his spirit.”

I “Hear Him” in my times of quiet, that is when inspiration comes to me.  I acknowledge that all good comes from God.  These positive thoughts that come into my mind during these quiet times is the spirit enlightening my mind, testifying of Truth and Light. 

Elder Bednar continued, “If we are living the gospel and keeping the commandments, we’re living in Revelation.”

I testify that our Heavenly Father listens to our prayers and that as we keep the commandments and live according to the gospel of Jesus Christ, we are living within revelation.  I pled with you to place your burden on the atonement of Jesus Christ and allow him to take them from you.

We love you all,

Bishop Jeff Anderson & the 28th Ward Bishopric

Bishopric Message – April 2021

What a wonderful General Conference.  I loved listening to our living Prophet, President Russell M. Nelson on Easter Sunday.  President Nelson in his talk titled: “Christ Is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains” he stated:

“Each of God’s children deserves the opportunity to hear and accept the healing, redeeming message of Jesus Christ.  No other message is more vital to our happiness-now and forever.  No other message is more filled with hope.  No other message can eliminate contention in our society.” 

What a marvelous message of hope and faith.  He teaches us: “The answer to each your challenges is to increase your faith.”

He pleads with us on “this Easter morning is to start today to increase your faith.”

• First, study. Become an engaged learner.
• Second, choose to believe in Jesus Christ…  Choose to believe and stay Faithful.
• Third, act in faith… Then receive more faith by doing something that requires more faith.
• Fourth, partake of sacred ordinances worthily.  Ordinances unlock the power of God for your life.
• And fifth, ask your Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, for help.

Let us follow the Prophet of God’s counsel and as we do, He will pour out blessings in our lives.  He wants us to feel of his love and experience His Joy.

During our Bishopric Meeting these past few weeks, we have discussed why we enjoy doing certain things.  I enjoy building things.  I enjoyed working alongside my brothers and father as we built a cabin, converted homes to apartments, constructed decks, finished basements, covered canals, and built other homes.  My father was always in the middle of some kind of project or was planning a future project.  I’m realizing that I enjoy working in real estate selling new construction because of my experience with my father at a young age.  These are some of the things that bring me joy and I accomplished and finished projects.  I learned about joy from my father here on earth.   

This discussion sparked some personal thoughts, making me wonder about what I learned directly from my Heavenly Father?  What do I know about the joy our Heavenly Father feels when He sees us accomplish or finish His projects.  What joy do we feel while we are doing His will?

In John 15:9-12, the Savior explains the love he has for his disciples is the same love that his Father in Heaven has for him.  He wants us to feel His love, partake of the fruit of His love.

9 As the Father hath ^aloved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

10 If ye ^akeep my commandments, ye shall abide in my ^blove; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.

11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your ^ajoy might be full.

12 This is my commandment, That ye ^alove one another, as I have ^bloved you.

John 15:9-12

How did our Savior view those that followed him?  How does he view us?  He continues in John 15:15-16.

15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you ^afriends; for all things that I have ^bheard of my Father I have made ^cknown unto you.

16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have ^achosen you, and ^bordained you, that ye should go and bring forth ^cfruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my ^dname, he may give it you.

John 15:15-16

He calls us friends if we follow His plan and keep His commandments.

I’m grateful for Father in Heaven for the love that he expresses to me through the many gifts he has given me and ways he blessed my life.

Might we all continue to listen to these wonderful messages of this General Conference!  Let us feel his love as we study his words through our living prophet.  I look forward to the coming days when I can listen to the messages again.  I look forward to the evening when my son, Shawn plans an evening to spend with me listening to the priesthood session again and having a wonderful discussion about the “principles” of the gospel. 

We love you and miss you all,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• “Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric Message – June 2021

On this Memorial Day my thoughts have been around the military service of my own family.  In my father’s family there were seven boys and one girl.  The four oldest boys served in the military during and after World War II and all returned home safe to their families.  His father served in the Air Service in WWI and was on duty in England that the time of the Armistice. 

I also have a brother who retired from the Air Force just a few years ago after completing more then a 100 missions during the conflict in the Middle East.  This holiday has found me reflecting on the service of many others.  I spend some time today looking on FamilySearch where I found records of 20 men just a few generations back that were drafted into the military during both WWI and WWII. 

My father served in the Air Force and was stationed in Germany shortly after the war (WWII).  I included a quote from my father’s history of his experience that completed his time of service.

“On 21 November 1957 my student, Captain Weltzel and I were flying formation with Captain Weltzel in the back seat.  He had already been trained as a pilot in the T-33 and was now in the instructor course.  Lt. Von Gorhen and his student were in the lead aircraft.  Captain Weltzel was at the controls in the back seat.  I was enjoying the flight and relaxed with my arms upon the sides of the cockpit.  We had completed our descent from 20,000 feet and were coming in over a radio beacon at 1,500 feet to enter GCA when the lead aircraft signaled they were lowering the speed brakes.  Captain Weltzel didn’t recognize the signal so as we were advancing on the lead aircraft he pulled back all the way on the throttle and stop cocked the engine.  I lowered the speed brakes and we slowed down.  By the time we needed thrust, there was none there. 

“A pilot should not be able to stop cock the engine from the back seat in the T-33 but later it was found that some of the planes were defective and the detent was worn and this could happen.”

“Without power, we started descending.  I took over and tried to restart the engine by gang loading the fuel switch and turning on the air start switch.  The cloud ceiling was 500 feet and when we broke out under the clouds I picked out a plowed field and headed for it, reflexively pulling up to miss some power lines and we landed with gear down which is recommended in this circumstance.  There were trees a short distance ahead so we were fortunate to reach the ground in time.  The hard landing caused my student and I to suffer compression fractures of the lower thoracic and upper lumbar spine.  I apparently bumped my head and was knocked unconscious.  Two German nationals, Gotgried Grad and Ludwig Siebenhutter were nearby and pulled me from the wreckage.  Captain Weltzel was able to get out on his own.  Apparently, a few minutes after they got me a short distance from the plane it went up in flames.”

My father had guardian angels watching over him that day.  He had a purpose, a family to raise, and the Lord’s errand to complete.  He was spared that we might learn from him. 

I’m so grateful and proud of all those who have risked their lives for the freedoms that we all enjoy.  There are many in our ward who have also served in different branches of the military and a few who are actively serving.  Thank you for your service to our country and community. 

As the isolation of this pandemic is ending, there are many who are still concerned with the lasting effects of the COVID-19 virus.  I ask that everyone be respectful of others, reach out in support of those in our neighborhood.  Find ways to connect with those that you hold dear. 

Please let me know your individual concerns so we can sensitive to your needs as we start coming back together. 

We look forward to the day when we all feel comfortable with coming back to church in person.  Continue to uplift and support each other. 

We miss you all and want to see you,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org
• Dave Summers, Ward Executive Secretary
• 801-361-9224
• dlsummers135@gmail.com
• “Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric Message – July 2021

Bishopric Message – August 2021

Dear friends and members:

Only a few more weeks of this early schedule.  September 5th, our ward will be moving to the middle schedule which will start either at 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, or 11:30.  I know the suspense is driving you mad, but we will need to wait and see, a test of our patience.

Fall is just around the corner.  School is going to start soon.  For some, this is stressful.  For others, it is the routine that they look forward to.  For the world in general, there are so many unknowns. 

I look forward to the future with whatever challenges present.  It is not the challenge that defines me or presents my worth.  I am a child of God, created spiritually by a loving Father in Heaven who provided me with blessings and talents.  He has given me a family that accepts me with my shortcomings, come what may.

I’m so grateful for our Prophet and for the guidance he gives.  Here are a few quotes from this last General Conference.  His words inspire me and give me hope.  Please continue to feast upon his words:

…choose to believe in Jesus Christ. … Take your questions to the Lord and to other faithful sources. Study with the desire to believe rather than with the hope that you can find a flaw in the fabric of a prophet’s life or a discrepancy in the scriptures. Stop increasing your doubts by rehearsing them with other doubters. Allow the Lord to lead you on your journey of spiritual discovery. …

Do not minimize the faith you already have. It takes faith to join the Church and remain faithful. It takes faith to follow prophets rather than pundits and popular opinion. It takes faith to serve a mission during a pandemic. It takes faith to live a chaste life when the world shouts that God’s law of chastity is now outmoded. It takes faith to teach the gospel to children in a secular world. It takes faith to plead for the life of a loved one and even more faith to accept a disappointing answer

Faith takes work. Receiving revelation takes work. But “every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”¹³ God knows what will help your faith grow. Ask, and then ask again.

Your growing faith in Him will move mountains—not the mountains of rock that beautify the earth but the mountains of misery in your lives. Your flourishing faith will help you turn challenges into unparalleled growth and opportunity.

“Christ Is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains”
By President Russell M. Nelson
President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
From <https://abn.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2021/04/49nelson?lang=eng>

The Lord knows of your fears.  Lean on him and he will direct your path.  Look forward with an optimistic view and know that the Lord is standing by your side.  Live a life of faith, stay on the covenant path regardless of the outcome, “come what may.”

Love,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org
• Dave Summers, Ward Executive Secretary
• 801-361-9224
• dlsummers135@gmail.com

“Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric’s Message – September 2021

This month’s message is simple.

Our Heavenly Father knows you and sees you. He knows the gifts that He has given you. He loves you. Please trust Him, set your doubts, and lean on Him.

I see you and love you,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org
• Dave Summers, Ward Executive Secretary
• 801-361-9224
• dlsummers135@gmail.com

“Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric’s Message – October 2021

Dear Ward Family & Friends,

What a wonderful General Conference.  How comforting it is to listen to a Prophet’s voice as he challenged us to seek the guidance of the Spirit to receive answers to personal questions and feel support from him personally in our lives as we participate in this General Conference.

Many are struggling quietly, behind closed doors.  Some are being tempted beyond what seems fair.  The world is screaming with anger toward others while neglecting self-reflection. 

Over the past several weeks there seemed to be more darkness, more questions, and less hope.  I have struggled to stay optimistic.  The grind of the day has paid a toll on my heart as I have felt overwhelmed, down, and unappreciated.  These feelings have driven me to search for more meaning in what I do and a revived hope in the future.  I looked forward to hearing the words spoken at conference, knowing that my soul will be lifted.  While I waited I leaned on messages from the scriptures, leaders from the past, and positive messages.

5 ^aTrust in the Lord with all thine ^bheart; and lean not unto thine ^cown ^dunderstanding.

6 In all thy ways ^aacknowledge him, and he shall ^bdirect thy ^cpaths.

Proverbs 3: 5-6

37 ^aCounsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for ^bgood; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the ^cmorning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day. 

Alma 37:37

We are encouraged to look for truth as we listen to good music, received uplifting messages, and read good books.  I love listening to positive podcasts.  Many messages that ring true to me.  

a bit of Optimism – by Simon Sinek, author of the Book: Start With Why!

Simon Sinek started the podcast to interview individuals that he has been inspired by or has leaned on through the pandemic and personal struggles.  In one broadcast he quoted Dr. James Carse with his definition of Optimism.

“Optimism is not blind positivity and it is not naïve.  You can live in darkness, you can be in darkness, you can go through hard times but Optimism is the undying belief that the future is bright.  If you assume there is not hope, you guarantee there will be no hope.

Optimism is a strategy for making a better future.”

Dr. James Carse

I have listened to leaders from the past, hoping for some guidance and strength to help me keep moving forward.  Here are a few thoughts from a few talks I found as I searched “Optimism”:

In a devotional titled: There Is Always Hope by JOHN H. GROBERG of the Seventy on June 3, 1984

There is always hope. No matter how dismal things appear, no matter how problem-prone we seem to be, no matter what reversals and setbacks we suffer, there is always hope.

So you see, the battle lines are clearly drawn. Satan and his forces (the world) will do everything in their power to have you lose hope—to be constantly down on yourself, always discouraged, despondent, etc. We know people like that because we have been like that sometimes. Satan wants to discourage you, for he knows discouragement and hope cannot exist together. So if he gets you discouraged enough, out goes hope.

On the other hand, the Savior will do just the opposite. He will do all in his power to encourage you, lift you up, give you hope, help you in every way possible, so that with a “steadfastness in Christ” we may attain to that “perfect brightness of hope” and then discouragement and despair are gone. Can you see how clear that is?

Darkness, discouragement, pessimism, depression, anger, lack of hope—all come from Satan and his forces, whereas optimism, light, encouragement, hope, even to a perfect brightness of hope—all come from the Savior.

John H. Groberg

In a devotional titled: The Lord Is at the Helm by GORDON B. HINCKLEY  of the First Presidency on March 6, 1994

I picked up the Washington Post this morning and thumbed through it. It appeared to me a litany of negativism. If you were to read the Washington Post this morning, you might think the whole nation was going down the drain, and the whole world…

I contrast that with the optimism I feel concerning the Church. This is the greatest day—the greatest season—in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in my judgment. How wonderful to be alive today. How wonderful to be a part of this great cause at this time in the history of the world and in the history of this church. Never has it been so large. Never has it been so strong. Never has it been so highly regarded. Never has it made the kind of progress that it is making today. I say that with great humility and with great appreciation. I don’t discount the glorious days when the Prophet Joseph Smith walked the earth and spoke as a prophet to the people. I don’t discount the great, marvelous days of struggle and sacrifice and pain when our people came west under the leadership of President Brigham Young. I don’t minimize the accomplishments of any other era of the history of the Church or the greatness of any president who has presided over the Church. I simply say that things are getting better and better. And I feel profoundly grateful for that.

I come this evening with a plea that we stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight. I’m suggesting that we accentuate the positive. I’m asking that we look a little deeper for the good, that we still our voices of insult and sarcasm, that we more generously compliment virtue and effort.

I am not asking that all criticism be silent. Growth comes with correction. Strength comes with repentance. Wise is the man or woman who, committing mistakes pointed out by others, changes his or her course. I am not suggesting that our conversation be all honey. Clever expression that is sincere and honest is a skill to be sought and cultivated. What I am suggesting and asking is that we turn from the negativism that so permeates our society and look for the remarkable good in the land and times in which we live, that we speak of one another’s virtues more than we speak of one another’s faults, that optimism replace pessimism.

Gordon B. Hinckley, 1994

In the October 1995 General Conference to talk titled: Stay the Course—Keep the Faith by GORDON B. HINCKLEY, President of the Church

So it was in the latter part of the last century. It seemed the whole world stood against us. But the faithful knew there was sunlight behind those dark clouds, and that if they held on the storm would pass.

Today we walk in the sunlight of goodwill. There is a tendency on the part of some to become indifferent. There are those who drift off seeking the enticements of the world, forsaking the cause of the Lord. I see others who think it is all right to lower their standards, perhaps in small ways. In this very process, they lose the cutting edge of enthusiasm for this work. For instance, they think the violation of the Sabbath is a thing of unimportance. They neglect their meetings. They become critical. They engage in backbiting. Before long they have drifted from the Church.

The Prophet Joseph once declared, “Where doubt is, their faith has no power” (Lectures on Faith, Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1985, p. 46).

I invite any who may have so drifted to come back to the strong and solid moorings of the Church. This is the work of the Almighty. Whether we as individuals go forward will depend on us. But the Church will never fail to move forward.

Gordon B. Hinckley, 1995

During the month of October, please take President Nelson’s challenge to prayerfully ask for answers to your questions by listening to the messages from the conference and be touched and taught by the spirit. 

As life deals challenges, reach out to a close friend, a family member, your ward family, and to us.  Know that we are here for you.

I know He Lives and knows of our individual challenges.  Lean on our Savior, Jesus Christ for his cleansing, strengthening, and redeeming power.  His Atonement is enough, His Love is all reaching and everlasting. 

We LOVE you all,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org

• Dave Summers, Ward Executive Secretary
• 801-361-9224
• dlsummers135@gmail.com

“Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Bishopric Message – November 2021

Daily Reading from Book of Mormon

As a Bishopric, we felt it important to move forward challenging all the members of our ward to find time to be in the Book of Mormon each day.  For some this might take the shape of hours of scripture study, others it might be listening to the Book of Mormon through the LDS Library on the way to work, and yet others it might be simply reading a single verse from the Book of Mormon on a really hard day. 

This challenge is not about finishing a task, it is about creating a consistent habit.  Keep in mind Moroni’s Promise found in Moroni 10:3-5 as you read daily. 

3 Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

4 And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.

From <https://abn.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/moro/10?lang=eng>

A testimony starts with a desire to believe.  Build your testimony on the words of Christ found in the Book of Mormon and hold tight to the Iron Rod, the Word of God which leads to the tree, the Love of God, and partake of the Fruit of the Tree, the Love of God, then feel His love grow within you.

I hope that all will partake of the Love of God by tasting of the Fruit and allowing it to fill our souls with Forgiveness and Love.

Love,

Bishop Anderson

Bishopric Message – December 2021

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Christmas and the season of giving is just around the corner.  Our hearts are full of the spirit of gratitude for all of our blessings.  Some struggle with health yet is grateful for the little things.  Some struggle financially yet hold on with hope for the future and exercise faith as they arise each morning and face a new day.  Some struggle with self-doubt not seeing their full potential.  Some plead with the Lord for comfort as their world seems to be crashing down around them, yet they are grateful for the strength to keep going, keep loving, and continually forgiving, for they know that “at the core of Love is Forgiveness” both of self and others.

Christmas is such a wonderful and giving time of year.  As we continue to turn our lives over to Christ might we all look for ways to lift someone else’s burden with a smile of gratitude and thanksgiving.  Can we look for someone that is downtrodden and offer a hand of friendship, support, and love.

There are some very close to us still fighting to survive, living day to day with hope in the future.  If you are one of those families that could use a little help, please reach out to a member of the Bishopric so we can council with you and provide some assistance. 

If you have been blessed with excess this year and have a desire to help someone close by donating to the ward’s other fund.  We welcome extra donations during this time of year.  We promise to search out those in need of a helping hand and any excess will be applied to the ward fast-offering account at the end of the month. 

Youth of our ward remember the challenge you have been given to read in the Book of Mormon every day and to watch for someone that isn’t included or is separate from others.  Take courage and introduce yourself to them, learn their name, and the next time you see them say hello and call them by their name.  Then take note and watch the miracles happen simply because you put someone else first.

With Love,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com
• Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org
• Dave Summers, Ward Executive Secretary
• 801-361-9224
• dlsummers135@gmail.com
• “Stay Humble, Work Hard, & Be Kind”

Announcements:

• Sunday, December 5th at 6:00 pm – First Presidency’s Christmas Devotional
• Saturday, December 18th at 9:00 am (Updated Time) – Ward Christmas Breakfast – Heritage Park Building
• December 19th – Christmas Program
• Sunday Meeting Time Change:  10:00 am Sacrament Meeting – Starting December 26th we will be going back to the wards overlapping schedules.  (8:30, 10:00 & 11:30)
• December 26th – Sacrament Meeting Only – 10:00 am
• Remember Tithing Settlement – two Sunday evenings remain, December 12th & December 19th – from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.  Please go to the Ward Blog to Sign-up for a time.  www.highland28th.org

Please enjoy the enclosed Sunday School Newsletter along with a calendar for the Come Follow Me for next year as we read and study the Old Testament.

Bishopric Message – January 2022

Dear Friends and Ward Family,

Sacrament Meeting on December 26th was wonderful to hear which hymn is your favorite and why then to sing the song as a congregation.  From the stand, we witnessed many tears as the spirit bore witness of the Love the Savior has for us.  His love is all-encompassing.  Because of his love for us we have the potential to return.

I wanted to share one of my favorite hymns.  There are many fond memories of hearing my father and his six brothers sing this hymn when the family would gather, “Brightly Beams Our Father’s Mercy”.

First, he shows his light of mercy:  Brightly beams our Father’s mercy, From his lighthouse evermore, But to us, he gives the keeping Of the lights along the shore.

Second, he tells us that sin is dark.  Sin doesn’t need to keep a grip on us if we but look toward him:  Dark the night of sin has settled; Loud the angry billows roar.  Eager eyes are watching, longing, For the lights along the shore.

The last verse of this song along with the chorus has always had profound meaning to me as the Lord asks us to always be watchful as we shine his light in a troubled world:  Trim your feeble lamp, my brother; Some poor sailor, tempest-tossed, Trying now to make the harbor, In the darkness may be lost.

Let the lower lights be burning;  Send a gleam across the wave.  Some poor fainting, struggling seaman You may rescue, you may save.

2022 is here.  With a new year, we have the opportunity to start a new. 

Last week I thought a lot about how I hear him.  I listened to the messages from our Prophet and the Twelve on how They hear Him.  Each gives a different explanation of how they hear Him.  Might I ask the question; how do you hear him?

I hear him as I look outward toward others.  It is a wonderful blessing to be a Bishop because it provides a means to look outside myself, setting my own needs aside for the moment and extending a hand of friendship and love to others.  This is when I feel of His love.  Impressions come and I do my best to ack on these impressions.  I also hear him when I take a moment, silence the noise around me, and am still.

Might I ask, How do you hear him?  Are you willing to share your impressions?  I would love to have you respond and tell us how you hear him.

I testify that he is there.  He is aware of you and loves you.

Love,

• Bishop Jeff Anderson
• Highland 28th Ward
• 801-372-2072
• bishopjeffanderson@gmail.com

Ward Blog: www.highland28th.org

“Stay Humble, Work Hard, Be Kind, and Forgiving”