Arise and Shine Forth

We presented our "New Beginnings" program this week! Each Spring, the Church begins a new year-long theme for the youth program. Activities throughout the year center around that theme. The Young Womens' program has a special evening ("New Beginnings") where the new theme is presented.

This year's theme is Arise and Shine Forth. It comes from a book of modern revelations and scriptures, The Doctrine and Covenants Section 115 verse 5: "Verily I say unto you all: Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard for the nations." This is such a beautiful scripture. To me, it is a challenge to be the best you can be and shine the light of Christ through your actions and the way you live your life, bringing others towards His light. It is a good reminder.

We decided to have a "Tangled" New Beginnings. All of the references to light in the movie were a perfect fit with the theme. It was a lot of work (especially making all the purple pennant flags!), but the result was beautiful.

The girls helped make a large poster (that hopefully we can re-use during girls' camp this summer!)

Brooke made a cake to look like Rapunzel's castle. I found out afterwards that it is really just frosted donuts!

Simple centerpieces for the tables.

We got a spiffy chart to keep up with all of the girls' goal setting for the Personal Progress Program.

Me, Carrie, Farrah, Theresa, and Chanda

For refreshments, we had berries, nutty bread, cheese, veggies, and mixed nuts.

All of our girls are so sweet and so fun!

I am so blessed to be around such wonderful people, and to have constant reminders to be my best and shine the light of Christ by following His perfect example.