Church Activities

I've been the activities co-chair in my YSA ward since March 2005. Yes, it does seem like forever, but I love it nonetheless. From time to time I like to click on the church website and just see what's happening. Today I discovered a new link under 'Serving in the Church' — Activities!!! I was thrilled! It's been a long time in the coming, and it still needs a little more depth/resources, but it's a fabulous start. I finally feel slightly validated that my calling is 'offically recognized' on the church website! You may think this sounds ridiculous, but I've occasionally wondered why a calling that is so time- and labor-intensive never had any sort of online resources. Suffice it to say, I am very pleased with the web developers at church headquarters today.

Just as a reminder to us all...

Purpose of Church Activities
The purpose of Church activities is to bring members closer to Christ through worthwhile events that unite them as “fellowcitizens [in] the household of God” (Ephesians 2:19). Activities can:

• Fortify and support the [ward] family.
• Strengthen testimonies and foster personal growth.
• Provide opportunities to apply gospel principles.
• Create unity and a sense of belonging.

In addition, Church activities can provide opportunities to reach out to less-active members, recent converts, and those of other faiths. Activities can also help participants develop talents, gain new skills, and give service to others.

Responsibility for Activities
Church activities are planned under the direction of stake presidencies and bishoprics. These leaders assign responsibility for each activity to the leaders of the auxiliary or priesthood organization involved. Stake and ward activities committees, called and directed by the stake presidency or bishopric, are generally responsible for activities that involve multiple organizations or are planned for entire families.