Interactive Activities For Children and Youth

LESSON LIFESAVER Activities For CHURCH & HOME:
Primary, Sunday School, Youth Doctrine, and Family

Doctrine & Covenants LESSON 3

Teaching Come Follow Me lessons just got easier with our activities for JANUARY (week #3)

Theme: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

Joseph Smith—History 1:1-26

YOU WILL FIND:

• SCRIPTURE SCHOLARS to get them reading with reward stamps and pop-ups to match lesson theme.

• Lesson-Match Interactive Activities to match the CFM curriculum for all ages.

• BUNDLES for Primary age children and Sunday School teens – great for CHURCH & HOME or anytime (go HERE for bundles to save money).

Lesson 3 Scripture Scholars

Week’s Scripture Scholars BOOKMARKS & scripture POP-UP Includes:

• BOOKMARKS with Come, Follow Me scriptures to read and discuss topics for Primary and Individuals and Families. Also, for Sunday School (teens).
• POP-UP to glue in scripture binding next to scripture you underline.

EXTRA ITEMS – THERE’S MORE:
• STAMP. Award readers with a STAMP for the week’s scripture reading. See below to find matching STAMPS.
• STAMP KEEPER. These can be placed on the STAMP KEEPER (see below) where you can collect 50 stamps for the year

Lessons 1-5 Scripture Scholars

DECEMBER’s BUNDLE of BOOKMARKS, POP-UPs, and STAMPS. Glue STAMPS onto the STAMP KEEPER (to download separately, below).

To see TESTIMONIALS and HOW TO USE Scripture Scholars go HERE

JANUARY STAMPS $1.50
Stamps for weeks 1-5 Scripture Scholars Lessons 1-5 – Doctrine & Covenants – Included in the BUNDLE

STAMP KEEPER (1-52 stamps) $3.00
This is included in the January BUNDLE (or, download it below)

Click on the weekly lesson posters (below) to find interactive activities:

. . . LESSONS & ACTIVITIES . . .

Step 1 CHOOSE LESSON
Step 2 CHOOSE ACTIVITY
Step 3 CLICK ON POSTER
Step 4 DOWNLOAD ACTIVITY

January 13–19: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26

You might say the Doctrine and Covenants is a book of answers to prayers: many of the sacred revelations in this book came in response to questions. The question that began it all—the one that sparked the latter-day outpouring of revelation—was asked by a 14-year-old boy. A “war of words and tumult of opinions” (Joseph Smith—History 1:10) had left Joseph Smith confused about religion and his relationship with God. Perhaps you can relate to that. We find many conflicting ideas and persuasive voices in our day. When we want to sort through these messages and find truth, we can do what Joseph did. We can ask questions, study the scriptures, ponder, and ultimately ask God. In response to Joseph’s prayer, a pillar of light descended from heaven. God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared and answered his questions. Joseph’s testimony of that miraculous experience boldly declares that anyone “who [lacks] wisdom might ask of God, and obtain” (Joseph Smith—History 1:26). We can all receive, if not a heavenly vision, at least a clearer vision, illuminated by heavenly light.

COME FOLLOW ME
Ideas for Learning at Home and Church

with MATCHING ACTIVITIES

. . . A TRUE TESTIMONY OF JOSEPH SMITH . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:5–26

Joseph Smith is the Prophet of the Restoration.

The purpose of Joseph Smith’s history was to put us “in possession of the facts” because the truth about Joseph has often been distorted (Joseph Smith—History 1:1). As you read Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26, what strengthens your testimony of his divine calling?

Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.

Joseph Smith saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

. . . SACRED ANSWERS . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:5–25

How can I receive answers to my prayers?

Have you ever “lacked wisdom” or felt confused about a decision you needed to make? (Joseph Smith—History 1:13). The experience Joseph Smith had in 1820 can serve as a good pattern for your own personal revelation. For example, as you search Joseph Smith—History 1:5–25, look for experiences you can relate to. What do you learn about:

How Joseph prepared for a sacred experience in prayer? (see verses 8, 11, 14–15).
The role of scripture study in seeking revelation? (see verses 11–12).
What to do when you face opposition? (see verses 15–16, 21–26).
Accepting and acting on answers you receive? (see verses 18–25).

What additional insights can you gain from President Henry B. Eyring’s article “The First Vision: A Pattern for Personal Revelation”? (Ensign or Liahona, Feb. 2020, 12–17).

You might also look for other examples in the scriptures of people communicating with God. Images in the Gospel Art Book or other Come, Follow Me books could give you ideas. Try answering the questions listed previously for each example you find. What experiences have you had receiving answers to prayer? What can you do to help others have good experiences as well?

See also Russell M. Nelson, “Hear Him,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 88–92; Topics and Questions, “Personal Revelation,” Gospel Library.

ACTIVITIES FOR:
How can I receive answers to my prayers?

DOWNLOAD MATCHING ACTIVITIES below.

or, see FAITH & PRAYER (HERE)

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

ALL AGES

Letters to Heaven Prayer Mail POST-AND-PRESENT Activity

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

TEENS

Counsel with the Lord tent-card/prayer chart

TEENS

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

James 1:5 in Puzzled About Prayer activity left/above ⇐ ⇑

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

. . . THE FIRST VISION . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:15–20

Joseph Smith saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Joseph Smith trusted that God would answer his prayer, but he didn’t anticipate how that answer would change his life—and the world. As you read about Joseph’s experience, ponder how the results of the First Vision have changed your life.

For example, the First Vision revealed several truths about God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, that were different from what many people in Joseph’s day believed. As you read Joseph Smith—History 1:15–20, consider writing down different ways to complete a statement like this one: “Because the First Vision happened, I know that …”

What feelings do you have as you ponder Joseph’s experience and everything that came of it?

See also “Ask of God: Joseph Smith’s First Vision” (video), Gospel Library; “Joseph Smith’s First Prayer,” Hymns, no. 26.

ACTIVITIES FOR:
Joseph Smith saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

DOWNLOAD MATCHING ACTIVITIES below.

or, see FIRST VISION (HERE)

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

TEENS

ALL AGES

. . . A FIRM TESTIMONY . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:21–26

I can remain true to what I know, even if others reject me.

After his remarkable First Vision, Joseph Smith naturally wanted to share his experience with others. The opposition he faced surprised him. As you read his account, what inspires you to remain true to your testimony? What other examples—from the scriptures, an ancestor, or people you know—give you courage to stay true to the spiritual experiences you have had?

See also Gary E. Stevenson, “Nourishing and Bearing Your Testimony,” Liahona, Nov. 2022, 111–14.

ACTIVITIES FOR:
I can remain true to what I know, even if others reject me.

DOWNLOAD MATCHING ACTIVITIES below.

or, see TESTIMONY (HERE)

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

I love to hear Book of Mormon stories! Poster or Coloring Page

AGES 4-7

Ammon and King Lamoni hinged missionary dolls

AGES 8-11

TEENS

Missionary Prep mirror motivators #MissionaryWork

TEENS

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

Don't Bottle up your testimony POST-AND-PRESENT Activity

ALL AGES

My Strong Testimony of Jesus (Weak or Strong Plant Builder)

ALL AGES

D&C 133:37 gospel preached unto every nation

ALL AGES

Book of Mormon Moroni 10:4-5 - Book of Mormon Promise scripture poster

ALL AGES

I want to be a missionary now - song visuals

. . . JOSEPH SMITH – LATTER-DAY PROPHET . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14

Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.

Learning about Joseph Smith’s youth could help your children relate to him as they learn from his experiences. Maybe they could hold a picture of Joseph Smith and share what they know about him. If needed, you might add some facts about him from Joseph Smith—History 1:3–14 (see also “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 6–8, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). What did Joseph experience that helped prepare him to become a prophet? What might God be preparing us to do?

ACTIVITIES FOR:
I can remain true to what I know, even if others reject me.

DOWNLOAD MATCHING ACTIVITIES below.

or, see JOSEPH SMITH (HERE)

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

Joseph was prayerful

ALL AGES

Joseph was honest

ALL AGES

Joseph grew

ALL AGES

Follow the Example of Jesus Scripture Scroll – Luke 2:52

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

SONG VISUALS: “An Angel Came to Joseph Smith”

TEENS

ALL AGES

LARGE SIZE (below) – small stand-up presentation (go HERE)

ALL AGES

Joseph Smith's Answered Prayer with story poster to present THE FIRST VISION story

AGES 1-5

I Have a Body like Heavenly Father and Jesus (First Vision Pop-up Scene)

AGES 4-7

puzzle telling of Joseph Smith growing up

AGES 8-11

Joseph Smith: God’s Chosen Prophet Tribute SearchPrimary and family home evening

TEENS

Praise to the Man D&C 135:3 John Taylor Quote bookmark

. . . ANSWERS IN SCRIPTURES . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:10–13

God can answer my questions through the scriptures.

Consider showing your children a variety of books, including the scriptures. Help them think of questions these books can answer. Then you could read together Joseph Smith—History 1:10–11 to find out what questions Joseph Smith had and what answers he found in the scriptures.
Your children might be able to find words in verse 12 that describe how reading James 1:5 affected Joseph. Then you could share experiences with each other in which a passage of scripture had a powerful influence on you. You could also sing together a song about reading the scriptures, such as “Search, Ponder, and Pray” (Children’s Songbook, 109). What does the song teach about why we read the scriptures?

ACTIVITIES FOR:
God can answer my questions through the scriptures.

DOWNLOAD MATCHING ACTIVITIES below.

or, see SCRIPTURES (HERE)

Also, See CHURCH

ALL AGES

Which Standard Work(s) Match Game to learn about four books of scritpure

AGES 1-5

I love the scriptures! poster or coloring page

AGES 4-7

The Teachings of jesus are a great Treasure! bookmark

AGES 8-11

TEENS

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

ALL AGES

SCRIPTURES: Feast upon the Words of Christ Post-and-Present Activity, and FEAST and 30-day reading bookmark, Primary Sharing Time, family home evening, Come, Follow Me, GospelGrabBag.com

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

"The Church of Jesus Christ" Song Visuals for Primary Music practice songs, LDS Primary, Primary Sharing Time, Family Home Evening

ALL AGES

TEENS

ALL AGES

. . . THE FIRST VISION . . .

Joseph Smith—History 1:17–19

Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Young children might enjoy standing with outstretched arms pretending to be trees in the Sacred Grove while you tell them about the First Vision. Ask the children to sway as if being blown by the wind while you talk about Joseph praying. Then ask them to stand very still and quiet when you tell them Heavenly Father and Jesus appeared to Joseph.
Older children might enjoy using one or more of the pictures in this outline to tell you what they know about the First Vision. Encourage them to refer to Joseph Smith—History 1:14–17 and to share their thoughts and feelings about Joseph’s experience (see also “Chapter 2: Joseph Smith’s First Vision,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 9–12, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library).

Joseph Smith’s First Vision: 1820

Ask of God: Joseph Smith’s First Vision

ACTIVITIES FOR:
Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

DOWNLOAD MATCHING ACTIVITIES below.

or, see FIRST VISION (HERE)

ALL AGES

AGES 1-5

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

ALL AGES

FIRST VISION Memory Match Game or Tell-the-Story Cards

AGES 1-5

First Vision - Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and Jesus poster or coloring page

AGES 4-7

AGES 8-11

TEENS

TEENS

ALL AGES

SMALL SIZE (below) – larger size Poster-Presentation (go HERE)

ALL AGES

$3.00 small Visuals for Come Follow Me, Primary, family home evening, missionary service, stand-up story

ALL AGES

Joseph Smith History 1:17 – First Vision

ALL AGES

"On a Golden Springtime" Song Visuals for Primary Music practice songs, LDS Primary, Primary Sharing Time

ALL AGES

⇐ GO BACK to D&C Lesson 2 “Hearken, O Ye People” D&C 1 (January week 2)

GO to D&C Lesson 4 “The Hearts of the Children Shall Turn to Their Fathers” D&C 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27-65 (January week 4)

SUMMARY OF SUBJECTS FOR:

DOCTRINE & COVENANTS
Joseph Smith—History 1:1-26
JANUARY (week 3)
Lesson 3: January 13-19, 2025
“Come unto Christ, and Be Perfected in Him”

#ComeFollowMe #BookOfMormon #Primary #FamilyHomeEvening #SundaySchool #YouthClasses #YoungMen #YoungWomen #FamilyScriptureStudy #ChurchOfJesusChrist #GospelGrabBag #LessonActivities #SongVisuals #ISawAPillarOfLight #JosephSmith #FirstVision

COME FOLLOW ME Doctrine and Covenants – JANUARY Lesson 3 “I Saw a Pillar of Light” Joseph Smith–History 1:1-26 – Activities and Song Visuals for Primary and Home, family home evening (individual families), Sunday School, Seminary