General Conference Traditions

Two times each year our Prophet and 12 Apostle speak to us.  It is a special conference that is broadcast throughout the world in many different languages.  Our family gathers around our computer to watch it on the internet.  It takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday in October and April.  

It is a time that we all look forward to.  We block our schedules and enjoy spending that time together as a family.  

Today as the little kids and I ate lunch we read a short article in our church magazine, the "Ensign".  (October 2013 Ensign)

“Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?”

by Tina Spencer

Fifteen days before the start of each general conference, our family hangs up our sign announcing the beginning of “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” Then we add the latest pictures of our prophets, seers, and revelators from the previous conference edition of the Church magazines.

I prepare by researching the prophet we will welcome that night. Sometimes I find objects around the house to represent a few things I found out, and I put them on a plate. During dinner, as I tell stories about each item, everyone tries to guess who it is. Other times, I tell a story or two that the prophet shared during the previous general conference.

I am amazed at the things my children remember about our beloved prophets and apostles, and I know this simple game has increased my love and knowledge of these great men also.

I reallly liked this idea.  It would be a great way to learn about past Prophets or current Apostles so I went to the computer and found this great website that has pictures of the Apostles and facts about them.  I am excited for our kids to learn more about these great men that are tremendous examples of Christ. 

http://lds.about.com/library/bl/games/apostlecards_new.pdf

Last Conference our oldest daughter set up a "Conference Concessions."  If the kids listened and took notes durning the morning session of General Conference and were obedient and quick to do their chores durning the week leading up to General Conference they were able to earn fake money and use their fake money to buy snacks in between the morning and afternoon sessions.   

The older kids take notes or draw pictures in their journal about what they are learning.  I always print a packet for the younger kids like this one.  

The Monday after Conference our Family Home Evening Lesson is review of what we have learned and how we plan to apply it to our lives.