Welcome to the Church of Joy
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What does Elder Kearon mean by the "church of joy"?
- How can we transform our sacrament meetings into joyful, Christ-focused gatherings?
- What is the difference between attending and worshipping during sacrament meetings?
- How can joyful reverence be expressed during our worship services?
- What role do family and ward councils play in fostering a culture of joy?
Topics
Embrace the Church of Joy
Elder Kearon emphasizes that as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we should be the most joyful people on earth due to our hope in Christ and understanding of the Plan of Happiness. He invites us to reflect this joy in our Sabbath meetings and daily lives.
We are members of the Church of Jesus Christ. We are members of the church of joy!
Joy comes from and because of Him. … For Latter-day Saints, Jesus Christ is joy!
- Why should members of the Church be considered the "most joyful people on earth"?
- How does our understanding of the Plan of Happiness contribute to our joy?
- How can you personally reflect the joy of the gospel in your daily life?
- What actions can you take to bring more joy into your ward or branch meetings?
Practice Joyful Reverence
Joyful reverence is a concept where we express deep love and respect for God through a soul that rejoices in Christ's love and salvation. Elder Kearon encourages us to go beyond traditional notions of reverence and embody a spirit of joyful reverence in our sacrament meetings.
Our reverence flows from a soul that rejoices in Christ’s abundant love, mercy, and salvation!
Is that how we would be if the Saviour were with us? No, for "in [His] presence is fulness of joy"!
- What does it mean to have joyful reverence?
- How can joyful reverence transform our worship services?
- In what ways can you demonstrate joyful reverence during sacrament meetings?
- Reflect on a time when you felt joyful reverence in your worship. What contributed to that feeling?
Shift from Attending to Worshipping
Elder Kearon distinguishes between merely attending sacrament meetings and truly worshipping. Worship involves intentional praise and adoration of God, transforming us and bringing us closer to Him.
To worship is to intentionally praise and adore our God in a way that transforms us!
- What is the difference between attending a meeting and worshipping?
- How does worship transform us?
- How can you prepare yourself to worship rather than just attend sacrament meetings?
- What changes can you make in your Sabbath worship to ensure it is transformative?
Enhance Sacrament Meeting Experiences
Elder Kearon outlines practical ways to enrich our sacrament meetings, including expressive hymn singing, heartfelt talks and testimonies, and focusing on the sacrament as a time of spiritual renewal and joy.
The glorious focal point of our services is the blessing and receiving of the sacrament itself.
In the stillness, we can ponder the many ways we have seen the Lord relentlessly pursue us with His wonderful love that week!
- How can hymn singing enhance our worship experience?
- What should be the focus of our thoughts during the sacrament?
- What specific actions can you take to improve the quality of your participation in sacrament meetings?
- Reflect on your recent sacrament experiences. How can you deepen your focus on the Savior during this time?
Foster a Culture of Joy
Elder Kearon encourages family, ward, and branch councils to actively create a culture of joy and welcoming in church settings. This involves planning and implementing ways to ensure everyone feels included and loved.
Family councils can discuss how each individual can contribute in meaningful ways to welcoming all to the church of joy!
Ward and branch councils can envision and create a culture of joyful reverence for our sacrament hour.
- Why is it important to foster a culture of joy in our church communities?
- How can councils play a role in creating a joyful church environment?
- How can you contribute to a culture of joy in your ward or branch?
- What practical steps can your family take to enhance joy in your church meetings?
