In the October 2011 General Conference Elder David A. Bednar invited the young women, young men, and children of the rising generation to engage in family history work. He stated:

“Many of you think family history work is to be performed primarily by older people. But I know of no age limit described in the scriptures or guidelines announced by Church leaders restricting this important service to mature adults.  . . . The Lord has made available in our day remarkable resources that enable you to learn about and love this work that is sparked by the Spirit of Elijah. . . . It is no coincidence that FamilySearch and other tools have come forth at a time when young people are so familiar with a wide range of information and communication technologies. Your fingers have been trained to text and tweet to accelerate and advance the work of the Lord—not just to communicate with your friends. The skills and aptitude evident among many young people today are a preparation to contribute to the work of salvation.”

I have personally witnessed great skill and enthusiasm with which the youth engage in family history. Each year we have dozens of young people ages 12-15 who serve at the Granite Family History Center weekly. They not only learn to do their own family history, they also learn how to help others, both young and old, with their family history. I marvel at how quickly they learn and how excited they get as they discover, gather and connect their ancestors.

Equally rewarding is to see the Granite Family History Center often filled to capacity on Tuesday and Wednesday nights as youth groups participate in family history activities. It is also not uncommon during the warmer months to see scooters and bikes in the bike rack at the Center as youth drop by on their own to participate in family history research, indexing or other activities. Often they will bring a friend to join with them in their efforts to gather Israel.

Elder Bednar’s invitation back in 2011 was coupled with the following promise:

“As you respond in faith to this invitation, your hearts shall turn to the fathers. The promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will be implanted in your hearts. Your patriarchal blessing, with its declaration of lineage, will link you to these fathers and be more meaningful to you. Your love and gratitude for your ancestors will increase. Your testimony of and conversion of the Savior will become deep and abiding. And I promise you will be protected against the intensifying influence of the adversary. As you participate in and love this holy work, you will be safeguarded in your youth and throughout your lives.”

I know the promises made to the youth by Elder Bednar are true. I have witnessed them in the lives of the youth participating in family history. Family history is not just a program or activity. It is a vital part of the work of salvation. The youth have been prepared for this day to assist in this glorious work and this glorious work blesses their lives. 

At the Granite Family History Center we welcome all youth to join us for special activities and opportunities after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. It is a wonderful, inspiring time for all who participate.

David Castleton – Director – Granite Family History Center