3.4 Local Opportunities
As you consider how best to bless the people in your ward, branch, or stake—especially the rising generation—we invite you to prayerfully plan experiences that fit your needs and circumstances. You have the flexibility to choose what will be most meaningful. The suggestions below include ways you could incorporate virtual tools and shared resources into the activities you plan.
Examples of Local Activities
Ward and Stake Devotionals
Devotionals might be planned for Church members and friends in general, or for specific groups like the youth, young adults, or Relief Society sisters. Consider sharing virtual temple tours, temple-focused messages, or videos that teach about Jesus Christ. These gatherings can help participants better understand their local temple and feel prepared for future temple worship.
Ward or Branch Activities
Ward and branch activities can create meaningful, hands-on experiences for members and friends—especially youth and families. Consider gathering in a meetinghouse or home to explore virtual temple tours, to participate in live Temple Square video tours, or view videos about Jesus Christ and His teachings. You might also highlight a temple in your own area, helping participants connect its purpose and blessings with the Salt Lake Temple celebration.
Local Temple Worship
Seek inspiration for ways to encourage temple participation. Ideas might include family history activities or planning dates to go to the temple together. We hope more people will engage with and celebrate their local temple before and during the celebration.
FSY Conferences
FSY devotionals and workshops offer natural opportunities to help youth learn about temples and feel the joy of following Jesus Christ. You may choose to incorporate videos, virtual tours, or short teaching segments that explain what happens in temples and why they matter. These moments can deepen understanding and strengthen youth as they prepare for future temple worship.
Youth Conferences
Youth conferences can help young people feel excitement and confidence as they learn about temples and strive to follow Jesus Christ. You might invite participants to watch the Worldwide Discussion for Youth together and then discuss what they learned in smaller groups. Using videos or virtual temple experiences can also enrich the conference theme and deepen understanding.
Yearly YSA Conferences
YSA conferences provide time and space for young adults to strengthen faith, build friendships, and learn about Jesus Christ. Consider inviting attendees to participate in the Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults or to explore virtual temple resources together. These experiences can help young adults better understand temple worship and feel supported as they prepare for future temple blessings.
Community and Interfaith Engagement
Local community and interfaith gatherings offer opportunities to share what temples mean in simple, welcoming ways. You might invite local leaders to view selected videos about Jesus Christ or to join a virtual tour of Temple Square. These activities can foster understanding, encourage respectful dialogue, and help friends feel the spirit of unity this celebration invites.
Local Temple Open Houses
Open houses give members and friends a unique chance to learn about the purpose of temples in a welcoming setting. Consider using the videos, virtual tours, and media resources in this toolkit to help explain that Heavenly Father wants all His children to have access to the blessings of the temple. These tools can enhance invitations, help guests feel comfortable, and support local communications during an open house.