The October 2014 Ensign contains an article by Elder David A. Bednar taken from his address to new mission presidents on June 25, 2013. Elder Bednar shared a statement made by Joseph Smith on April 6, 1837:  “After all that has been said, the greatest and most important duty is to preach the Gospel.” Elder Bednar then compared this to another statement made by Joseph Smith seven years later: “The greatest responsibility in this world that God has laid upon us is to seek after our dead.” Elder Bednar explains that these statements are not inconsistent. He then highlighted the unity and oneness of this latter-day work of salvation and how the Spirit of Elijah is key to missionary work and the gathering of Israel.

Elder Bednar describes the Spirit of Elijah as a manifestation of the Holy Ghost bearing witness of the divine nature of the family. He also explains the spiritual power that results from the Spirit of Elijah and the way it changes hearts. For example:

• The Spirit of Elijah awakens and prepares a heart for the mighty change so it can be converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• The Spirit of Elijah sustains and strengthens hearts that have already experienced a mighty change.
• The Spirit of Elijah softens a heart that has become hardened after experiencing the mighty change.

At RootsTech 2017, President Nelson stated: “If I were a missionary today, my two best friends in the ward or branch where I served would be the ward mission leader and the ward temple and family history consultant.”

While some have looked at the quarantine of missionaries or their temporary release from active service as down time, it can be a wonderful opportunity to enhance your tool box, sharpen your saw, and prepare to return to the field with greater resources to share the gospel with the world. Notwithstanding much of the world is shut down, the resources available to you are unlimited. Whether you are looking for engaging intros, captivating stories, learning experiences, research tips or ways to serve, they are all available at the click of a mouse. Here are a couple of resources to get you started and active in this great work:

1. familysearch.org –This site provides all kinds of activities, information, helps, guides, hints and resources to help you connect with your ancestors and participate in the gathering. If you want some additional help, go to the help menu where you will find resources to help you through a multitude of topics. If you click on the “Contact Us” link it will tell you who the family history consultants are in your ward. They can help you remotely and provide additional resources for you.
2. thefhguide.com– The Family History Guide is a free learning, research, training, & activities center for family history. It will guide you through any project and links you to every resource you could ever imagine. It also has a robust family activities section and a Come Follow Meresource and activity section
3. granitefhc.com– although the Granite Family History Center is closed due to the coronavirus, its website is open for business 24/7. Each week new articles are posted about activities and resources to assist you. You can also find links to other resources and participate in classes that were previously held and recorded for on-line viewing. 

Don’t delay! Take advantage of this time to better prepare yourself to use the Spirit of Elijah and to personally enjoy the blessings that come to you as you engage in family history work.  I know that as you engage in this great work you will feel the increased influence of the Holy Ghost, greater strength and direction for your personal life, the love of the Lord, and an increased love and appreciation for ancestors and living relatives. My prayers are with you during this challenging yet opportune time. –Dave Castleton; Director, Granite Family History Center.