Family History Corner

Posted on by akronohiostakenews

Family History Evaluation

by Jeanne Peugh, Stake Temple and Family History Consultant

As we begin the last month of the year 2022, let us ask ourselves the following questions in relation to our family history accomplishments:

  • 1) What was the most valuable information I learned about my family?
  • 2) Did I find this information myself while searching, or did someone assist me?
  • 3) Was I able to make any connections with other relatives I didn’t know about?
  • 4) Was I able to share this information with other current family members?
  • 5) Did I do any proxy work in the temple on the information I found?
  • 6) What part of family history work am I most thankful for? 

A few years ago, a CEO from RootsTech made the following statement: “Everyone deserves to be remembered.” How do you want to be remembered? In the last few months, we have had some long-time members in our ward go to the other side of the veil. As I reflect on their lives, I cherish many memories of my friendship with them. The loss has touched my heart, and even though I understand the Plan of Salvation, just knowing I will not see them or chat with them again, they have taken a piece of my heart with them. We are all one with our Heavenly Father, and he wants us to have joy in knowing we can have great joy on the side only if we connect ourselves with our ancestors. 

As January approaches, take the time to ponder how you might more closely connect with your ancestors. Here are some suggestions that might help you:

  • When you do your weekly schedule, make sure you block some time to work on your own family.
  • If you need help, never hesitate to ask – whether it be a friend, a family member, or a family history consultant in your ward or stake.
  • Never give up; some of those ancestors seem not to be there, but they’re there, and yes, they want you to find them. You are the key to unlock their eternal joy.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask for the Lord’s help; this is His work and His glory, and if we are sincere, we will get promptings; maybe not today, but there is also tomorrow. 
  • Keep a journal of your research so you can see what you have accomplished throughout the year and where more effort might be needed. 
  • Always be grateful the Lord has given you another day to try again.

I testify that if we put forth the effort to find our ancestors, our joy will be more than anything we can ever hope for. 

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