Akron Ohio Stake News

The stake presidency invited Stake Relief Society President Center to share a message with the stake this month.

As a very young girl, my good father gave me counsel I have remembered off and on over the years. In light of President Nelson’s request that we use the correct and full name of the Church, my father’s advice has caused greater thought. I do not remember the circumstances of the moment the counsel was given, but I do remember him saying, “Krissie, remember who you are and what you stand for.” Growing up, I understood that to mean because I was a “Mautz” and a member of the Church there were certain expectations of behavior, education, moral conduct, etc.

Names are given at birth. Sometimes we are named in honor of a parent, grandparent or ancestor. Helaman named his sons Lehi and Nephi, explaining to them, “Behold, I have given you the names of our first parents…and this I have done that when you remember your names ye may remember them, and…their works…that they were good. Therefore, my sons, I would that ye should do that which is good, that it may be said of you, and also written, even as it has been said and written of them.” (Helaman 5:6-7)

We are not only given a name, but we also “take a name.” Traditionally a bride takes the name of her husband and a new family line is begun. When we are baptized members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we covenant to take upon us the name of Jesus Christ. What does that mean- to take upon us the name of Christ? As with my father’s admonition, there are certain expectations attached when we take His name upon us.

Each Sunday as we partake of the sacrament, we renew that covenant as we promise to “always remember him and keep his commandments.” That is an expectation of who we are and what we stand for. Taking upon us the name of Christ means we join with him in the work of salvation. We promise to minister, gather Israel on both sides of the veil, attend the temple, participate in Sunday worship including Come Follow Me, repent and serve our brothers and sisters. It also means we do all we can to pattern our lives after the Savior and do his work. Because we carry his name, we represent Him in all we do, say and think. As we honor His name, we will find peace, joy and the companionship of the Holy Ghost.