by Glen Steenblik

November is a month of the year associated with the theme of Thanksgiving and Gratitude. It is a time of family gatherings, when we reflect on and express gratitude for the multitude of blessings we have received from a loving Heavenly Father.

President Thomas S. Monson taught: “Regardless of our circumstances, each of us has much for which to be grateful, if we but pause and contemplate our blessings. Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God’s love.”

As we gather together as families in the coming weeks, consider incorporating an idea suggested by Elder Quinton L. Cook at RootsTech 2016. He recommended we hold a “Family Tree Gathering” where everyone could bring to these gatherings existing family histories, stories, and photos including cherished possessions of grandparents and parents.

A similar “Family Tree Gathering” was held this past week with my siblings.

We were able to open and view the contents of a large trunk used by my great grandfather upon returning from his mission to the Netherlands. The trunk recently became the property of my brother and was packed with family mementos, photos, and other keepsakes. It had not been opened in over 40 years because of loss of the key. What a joy it was to spend an evening viewing and distributing cherished family heirlooms.

At upcoming Family Tree Gatherings, the My Family booklet might be utilized and distributed to youth to help get some started on or continue on the path to record their history and then get this information uploaded to FamilySearch.org.

It was Elder Boyd K. Packer who expressed: “No work is of more of a protection to this Church than temple work and the family history research that supports it. No work we do gives us more power. No work requires a higher standard of righteousness. Our labors in the temple cover us with a shield and a protection, both individually and as a people.”

Throughout this approaching holiday season, let us gather together, sharing gratitude for those who have gone before us, sharing precious family history, and receiving the much needed protection from Heavenly Father.