Charades, but backwards. Split up into groups of 4-6. Group acts out words while one member of group guesses. Group with the most points at the end of the game wins! Can be purchased here, or you can create your own words.
Whether you're a missionary, ward mission leader, or member of the ward counsel, these outreach ideas are PERFECT for bringing people together!
I have had two different homes over the past 3 years. The above picture shows one of two different church buildings that reside on the same lot. Each building has 2 different Chapels, Relief Society Rooms, Gymnasiums, 4 Bishop offices, and a variety of classrooms. This was my first 'home' beginning 3 years ago. This became my second 'home' during the 2nd year of our service. This is the James E Talmage building on the campus of Brigham Young University (Provo). In my second home, I was greeted weekly by Kung Fu Panda at the front door! Inside this room, the Auditorium was transformed into a Chapel for Sacrament Meeting. Then, it transformed again into a Classroom. Everyone loved the cushy seats and Multi-media facilities. One of my favorite Sunday School lessons was a "Family Feud" type of game that was put up on the big screen. Everyone loved that lesson! Toward the end of my service opportunity, we again returned home to this beautiful building with this fabulous backdrop. Each Semester started with new members of our Young Single Adult Ward providing their information. We did it with a 'high tech' option using Google. Then, new members were asked to write their name and apartment number on the glass of a frame. They held these frames in front of them as their picture was taken for the Ward Directory (or Ward Menu depending upon who you were talking to). I had the opportunity to take the photos, crop and enhance the photos (everyone wanted to look good you know) and publish our cyber Ward Directory/Menu for everyone in the ward. There were lots of 'Fun and Games" from Sponge Volley ball, a giant Slip-N-Slide etc... As well as taking on new challenges a few hundred feet above the ground..... To providing needed service for others. One common theme was food.... and food... and more food.... Oh, and more food (Break the Fast). If you are wondering where I am going, I am offering a very public "Thank you" to all of the Young Single Adults that we have had the opportunity that we have had to serve with them over the past 3 years. Yesterday was a bitter-sweet day. My husband and I were released from serving with these incredible individuals. As it turned out, the Chorister did not arrive in time to lead the music in Sacrament Meeting. I decided to pinch-hit. Little did I know that the closing hymn was "God be with you 'til we meet again". Let's just say I did a lot of smiling with tears streaming down my face as these tremendous young people sang this hymn with us. I cried for 3 hours straight as I received hugs and "thank you's" from so many. So, today as I reflect on the tremendous opportunity I have had, I have decided to offer advice and suggestions to others who are called to serve with and blessed by these tremendous individuals. The Little Red Hen's suggestions for Sisters called to serve in a Young Single Adult Ward: You need to carry an Apron in your car: I am not kidding. You need an Apron as there is food at nearly every turn. You will have the opportunity to provide meals and snacks for Family Home Evening, Break-the-Fast (each month), Barbecues, Camping Trips, Repelling Activities, Relief Society Weekday Meetings, and even Ward Council. Don't be overwhelmed by this, just enjoy the journey. These YSA's traditionally don't eat a balanced diet or cook for themselves. They will express their appreciation and thanks for everything you do here. The hugs are 'payment' enough in my view. Learn to cook for a crowd: I won't lie, this was overwhelming for me initially. If you don't know where to turn, you really do have options. Check with trusted friends and family. Often, I used Google and Pinterest to find new ideas of things to try. You can even do a search for "Cooking for a Crowd" and find a lot of options. I learned that I can make a large Cheesecake in a Flat sheet cookie pan, make 'perfect' pie crust, make a variety of salads (pasta and fresh), make pulled pork in a Roaster Oven, and more. I have learned to make a boatload of rolls using my bread machine to mix my dough. Oh, and always have zip-loc type bags ready at all meals/snacks that you offer. These fun people are always game to take any left-overs with them! I once learned that a YSA young man ate a Queso-Blanco cheese ball and crackers from my home for a week as he didn't have time to go shopping. I wish this was an exception....but it really isn't for some:) Learn to be Digital! These folks are 'wired'. They really don't know what it is like 'not' to be near a cellphone or computer. It has been part of their entire life. I have learned to use Powerpoint and video when I taught classes. They are very attentive and you will have increased participation. As you might expect, there is constant change in a YSA ward. I learned how to have orientation information, presentations, and the 'handbook' with highlighted information on my IPAD. I have had to pull them out to help the newly-called Sisters learn what their responsibilities (at a moment's notice) as the Stake Leaders may not have a chance to orient them for up to a month due to scheduling. I also provided training at Relief Society Presidency Meetings and answered questions using my digital media. The Church has tremendous materials for our use, and these young folks respond very well to it. I have never received as many texts as much in my life as I have been by these good young folks. Some of the texts were pretty funny as well. Be Flexible: Things do not always go as planned. Be ready to jump in at a moment's notice. This is not the time to be shy! Give encouragement where it is needed as well as praise. This is often the first real opportunity for some of these young folks to serve out from under the umbrella of their parents. There will be meetings as early as 6:30 a.m. and as late at 10:30 p.m. (please know these times are the exceptions). But early and late do occur. The reason being is because this is when these good folks are available. Take notes: I am not kidding, not only will you need them, but others will as well. I opened one note on my IPAD and took notes for Ward Council. I kept the same note and just added on to the top of it during each meeting. When someone had a question about something that happened previously, I had the answer! Take pictures!: I am so glad I did this. The reason being that after the first 2 years, our ward was dissolved to make way for the second MTC. At the 'end of the semester' party, I had enough photos to make a video that included everyone and so many of the memories we had made together. Just know that we didn't have enough tissues at the end of the video. Be friendly!: Remember how stressful it was to go to a new ward as a Young Single Adult? Now times it by 170-200 people and you can get an idea of how tenuous it can be for these young people. Extend your hand and introduce yourself...over and over again. Also ask for their patience as you learn their names. I tried to use Mnemonic devices to associate something unique about each YSA to their name. I was not totally successful with everyone, but this memory technique took me a long way. It was easy for these YSA's to know who I was....as I was the token "Old Lady of the Ward". I was traditionally the only 'mature Sister', in church on Sunday. Chances are that you will need to be ready to help serve at Stake Functions: The Stake Leadership is full of wonderful people who are trying to do a whole lot for a tremendous number of people. Even the best-laid plans need a little help. I often dropped into the kitchen (with my apron!) and asked what they needed. I was never turned away. Bring a pair of 'sensible shoes': When you are cooking and serving in High Heels....it can take its toll on your feet and back. I often had my 'dressy' Sketchers (which were flats) in my bag and would change into them while I was working in the Kitchen. When it came time to go to the Dinner or Chapel, I would change back into my High Heels and stash my Sketchers. Learn how to safely transport food: This may seem simple, but it is so important. In my case, (and also in the case of so many others), you are traveling to serve these tremendous YSA's. I traveled 30 minutes each way. I have learned how to pack a cooler, how to use a Hay Box to transport hot food and how to time things to be ready at the right time. It takes a little planning but has great rewards. Be ready to be a shoulder to lean on: Some of these young people are faced with oppressing challenges. These have ranged from the death of a parent, loss of a sibling, loss of a scholarship, having to be relocated back to their country of origin, job loss, not being accepted into the program you were hoping to have as a major, and certainly broken-hearts. Listening is such a needed service and has been something that I have had to consciously work on as well as to develop a deeper sense of patience. I have always needed more patience and probably still need more. One thing is for certain, I have learned how to be more patient while serving in this calling. Be ready to be lifted: When friends and family members have asked me what my experience is like, I cannot say enough positive things. I have had the opportunity to be more 'fully utilized' in my service. Often, in traditional wards, I have been serving through music (which is very honorable) In this ward, I have had the opportunity to be a 'jacklyn-of-all-trades' and I love it. If your experience is like mine, you are lifted and blessed each time you interact and serve with the beautiful young people. So, to the members of the Young Single Adult Wards that we have had the opportunity to serve with, I want to offer my sincere and deep appreciation. My life has been greatly blessed due to my association with all of you. I have gained new friends and watched so many of go on to greater things. It is my hope that I can watch you continue on your trajectory towards you goals in your personal and professional lives. Thank you for being such a positive light for me personally. "'Til me meet again"
Our FHE on November 5th was a tied up dinner. Our wrists were tied to our neighbors' wrists, and we proceeded to attempt to eat a spaghetti...
By shifting the focus of young single adult wards from finding a spouse to finding Jesus Christ, members can more fully enjoy life now.
Our FHE on November 5th was a tied up dinner. Our wrists were tied to our neighbors' wrists, and we proceeded to attempt to eat a spaghetti...
Introducing the Turning Hearts Project: Temple and Family History - Bingo Style! Download a free printable Family History Bingo card.
The YSA reps had chosen to have a Family Home Evening to "strengthen families." The purpose was to model the importance of having FHE and ...
Lesson on making and learning from good memories. Sit and Be Fit aerobics. Bingo. Dance. Jello-O and pudding.
The purpose of this blog is to provide fun activity ideas for YSA wards and branches. A good activity will get people to come where they can be spiritually strengthened and make friends who share their values. Once upon a time, it was "Feed them, and they will come," but now it's "Entertain them, or they won't come." This blog is to help anyone whose job it is to come up with an activity to have an idea that will bring in a crowd.
Personalized, 4' x 6', full-color print banner, designed specifically for use as a ward bulletin board. This personalized WARD BOARD offers a unique and convenient way to display important information and announcements within your ward. With easy installation and updating options, it is designed to simplify communication and provide a visually appealing focal point for your ward. PERSONALIZED WARD NAME AND CHOSEN TEMPLE One of the standout features of this ward board is the personalization of your ward name. Simply provide us with the name of your ward, and we will customize the banner to include it prominently. Additionally, you choose your nearest temple and we will include a beautiful photo of it. FIVE BACKGROUNDS TO CHOOSE FROM To enhance the aesthetic appeal of your ward board, we offer five different background options to suit different preferences and styles. Whether you prefer a clean and simple background, a vibrant and colorful pattern, or something in between, our wide range of background choices ensures that you can find the perfect fit for your WARD BOARD. EASY INSTALLATION AND UPDATES We understand the importance of convenience when it comes to setting up and maintaining a WARD BOARD That is why our 4' x 6' full-color print banner is designed to be incredibly easy to install. To set up your WARD BOARD, simply unroll the banner, tuck in the edges and staple to secure it in place. The banner is made from high-quality, durable material that is suitable for long-term use, ensuring that it stays securely fastened to your chosen display area. In addition to easy installation, this ward board is also designed with simplicity in mind when it comes to updates. The banner is specifically designed to accommodate 8.5" x 11" papers, making it easy to print and pin important announcements, schedules, and other relevant information. Simply print the necessary documents, pin them to the board, and your update is complete. SUPER EASY WARD COMMUNICATION This ward board is the epitome of convenience when it comes to communicating with your ward members. Gone are the days of scrambling to find the right place to post announcements or searching for a missing schedule. With our WARD BOARD, all the important information is easily visible and organized in one central location. The large 4' x 6' size ensures that your messages are impossible to miss, while the full-color print adds a vibrant and eye-catching element. Whether it's upcoming events, contact information for ward leaders, photos from an activity, or any other vital details, this WARD BOARD makes it super easy for your ward family to stay informed and connected. SPECIFICATIONS: Size: APPROX. 4' x 6' (48" x 72") slightly smaller to easily tuck in to the 4'x6' frame. Material: High-quality, durable vinyl Printing: Full-color, personalized with ward name and temple photo Background Options: Choose from five different backgrounds | Wood, Chalkboard, White Brick, Blue Linen, Dove Linen Installation: Unroll, tuck and staple to secure in place Updates: Designed for 8.5" x 11" papers, simply print and pin. Updating takes seconds. Convenience: Easy to install, easy to update, and designed for effortless ward communication Please note that this listing includes the personalized WARD BOARD only. It does not include any pins, documents, or additional accessories. However, we assure you that the easy installation and clear display of your WARD BOARD will quickly become an invaluable tool for your ward's communication needs. Place your order today and take a step towards effortless ward communication and organization! NOTE: Not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
By shifting the focus of young single adult wards from finding a spouse to finding Jesus Christ, members can more fully enjoy life now.
Last night we had an awesome activity called Mission: Impossible. As Linden instructed us, the gym floor was turned into "lava" and th...
Another fun activity! In April, we planned an activity that focused on topics that pertain to Emergency Preparedness. We had such fun ...
I have had two different homes over the past 3 years. The above picture shows one of two different church buildings that reside on the same lot. Each building has 2 different Chapels, Relief Society Rooms, Gymnasiums, 4 Bishop offices, and a variety of classrooms. This was my first 'home' beginning 3 years ago. This became my second 'home' during the 2nd year of our service. This is the James E Talmage building on the campus of Brigham Young University (Provo). In my second home, I was greeted weekly by Kung Fu Panda at the front door! Inside this room, the Auditorium was transformed into a Chapel for Sacrament Meeting. Then, it transformed again into a Classroom. Everyone loved the cushy seats and Multi-media facilities. One of my favorite Sunday School lessons was a "Family Feud" type of game that was put up on the big screen. Everyone loved that lesson! Toward the end of my service opportunity, we again returned home to this beautiful building with this fabulous backdrop. Each Semester started with new members of our Young Single Adult Ward providing their information. We did it with a 'high tech' option using Google. Then, new members were asked to write their name and apartment number on the glass of a frame. They held these frames in front of them as their picture was taken for the Ward Directory (or Ward Menu depending upon who you were talking to). I had the opportunity to take the photos, crop and enhance the photos (everyone wanted to look good you know) and publish our cyber Ward Directory/Menu for everyone in the ward. There were lots of 'Fun and Games" from Sponge Volley ball, a giant Slip-N-Slide etc... As well as taking on new challenges a few hundred feet above the ground..... To providing needed service for others. One common theme was food.... and food... and more food.... Oh, and more food (Break the Fast). If you are wondering where I am going, I am offering a very public "Thank you" to all of the Young Single Adults that we have had the opportunity that we have had to serve with them over the past 3 years. Yesterday was a bitter-sweet day. My husband and I were released from serving with these incredible individuals. As it turned out, the Chorister did not arrive in time to lead the music in Sacrament Meeting. I decided to pinch-hit. Little did I know that the closing hymn was "God be with you 'til we meet again". Let's just say I did a lot of smiling with tears streaming down my face as these tremendous young people sang this hymn with us. I cried for 3 hours straight as I received hugs and "thank you's" from so many. So, today as I reflect on the tremendous opportunity I have had, I have decided to offer advice and suggestions to others who are called to serve with and blessed by these tremendous individuals. The Little Red Hen's suggestions for Sisters called to serve in a Young Single Adult Ward: You need to carry an Apron in your car: I am not kidding. You need an Apron as there is food at nearly every turn. You will have the opportunity to provide meals and snacks for Family Home Evening, Break-the-Fast (each month), Barbecues, Camping Trips, Repelling Activities, Relief Society Weekday Meetings, and even Ward Council. Don't be overwhelmed by this, just enjoy the journey. These YSA's traditionally don't eat a balanced diet or cook for themselves. They will express their appreciation and thanks for everything you do here. The hugs are 'payment' enough in my view. Learn to cook for a crowd: I won't lie, this was overwhelming for me initially. If you don't know where to turn, you really do have options. Check with trusted friends and family. Often, I used Google and Pinterest to find new ideas of things to try. You can even do a search for "Cooking for a Crowd" and find a lot of options. I learned that I can make a large Cheesecake in a Flat sheet cookie pan, make 'perfect' pie crust, make a variety of salads (pasta and fresh), make pulled pork in a Roaster Oven, and more. I have learned to make a boatload of rolls using my bread machine to mix my dough. Oh, and always have zip-loc type bags ready at all meals/snacks that you offer. These fun people are always game to take any left-overs with them! I once learned that a YSA young man ate a Queso-Blanco cheese ball and crackers from my home for a week as he didn't have time to go shopping. I wish this was an exception....but it really isn't for some:) Learn to be Digital! These folks are 'wired'. They really don't know what it is like 'not' to be near a cellphone or computer. It has been part of their entire life. I have learned to use Powerpoint and video when I taught classes. They are very attentive and you will have increased participation. As you might expect, there is constant change in a YSA ward. I learned how to have orientation information, presentations, and the 'handbook' with highlighted information on my IPAD. I have had to pull them out to help the newly-called Sisters learn what their responsibilities (at a moment's notice) as the Stake Leaders may not have a chance to orient them for up to a month due to scheduling. I also provided training at Relief Society Presidency Meetings and answered questions using my digital media. The Church has tremendous materials for our use, and these young folks respond very well to it. I have never received as many texts as much in my life as I have been by these good young folks. Some of the texts were pretty funny as well. Be Flexible: Things do not always go as planned. Be ready to jump in at a moment's notice. This is not the time to be shy! Give encouragement where it is needed as well as praise. This is often the first real opportunity for some of these young folks to serve out from under the umbrella of their parents. There will be meetings as early as 6:30 a.m. and as late at 10:30 p.m. (please know these times are the exceptions). But early and late do occur. The reason being is because this is when these good folks are available. Take notes: I am not kidding, not only will you need them, but others will as well. I opened one note on my IPAD and took notes for Ward Council. I kept the same note and just added on to the top of it during each meeting. When someone had a question about something that happened previously, I had the answer! Take pictures!: I am so glad I did this. The reason being that after the first 2 years, our ward was dissolved to make way for the second MTC. At the 'end of the semester' party, I had enough photos to make a video that included everyone and so many of the memories we had made together. Just know that we didn't have enough tissues at the end of the video. Be friendly!: Remember how stressful it was to go to a new ward as a Young Single Adult? Now times it by 170-200 people and you can get an idea of how tenuous it can be for these young people. Extend your hand and introduce yourself...over and over again. Also ask for their patience as you learn their names. I tried to use Mnemonic devices to associate something unique about each YSA to their name. I was not totally successful with everyone, but this memory technique took me a long way. It was easy for these YSA's to know who I was....as I was the token "Old Lady of the Ward". I was traditionally the only 'mature Sister', in church on Sunday. Chances are that you will need to be ready to help serve at Stake Functions: The Stake Leadership is full of wonderful people who are trying to do a whole lot for a tremendous number of people. Even the best-laid plans need a little help. I often dropped into the kitchen (with my apron!) and asked what they needed. I was never turned away. Bring a pair of 'sensible shoes': When you are cooking and serving in High Heels....it can take its toll on your feet and back. I often had my 'dressy' Sketchers (which were flats) in my bag and would change into them while I was working in the Kitchen. When it came time to go to the Dinner or Chapel, I would change back into my High Heels and stash my Sketchers. Learn how to safely transport food: This may seem simple, but it is so important. In my case, (and also in the case of so many others), you are traveling to serve these tremendous YSA's. I traveled 30 minutes each way. I have learned how to pack a cooler, how to use a Hay Box to transport hot food and how to time things to be ready at the right time. It takes a little planning but has great rewards. Be ready to be a shoulder to lean on: Some of these young people are faced with oppressing challenges. These have ranged from the death of a parent, loss of a sibling, loss of a scholarship, having to be relocated back to their country of origin, job loss, not being accepted into the program you were hoping to have as a major, and certainly broken-hearts. Listening is such a needed service and has been something that I have had to consciously work on as well as to develop a deeper sense of patience. I have always needed more patience and probably still need more. One thing is for certain, I have learned how to be more patient while serving in this calling. Be ready to be lifted: When friends and family members have asked me what my experience is like, I cannot say enough positive things. I have had the opportunity to be more 'fully utilized' in my service. Often, in traditional wards, I have been serving through music (which is very honorable) In this ward, I have had the opportunity to be a 'jacklyn-of-all-trades' and I love it. If your experience is like mine, you are lifted and blessed each time you interact and serve with the beautiful young people. So, to the members of the Young Single Adult Wards that we have had the opportunity to serve with, I want to offer my sincere and deep appreciation. My life has been greatly blessed due to my association with all of you. I have gained new friends and watched so many of go on to greater things. It is my hope that I can watch you continue on your trajectory towards you goals in your personal and professional lives. Thank you for being such a positive light for me personally. "'Til me meet again"
Have a fun ward activity or youth night by playing the Mormon Family Feud. Here are the answers to the Mormon Family Feud Questionnaire so ...
A few years ago Diana wrote about a youth activity she created with a Mission: Possible Theme. I recently adapted this idea so the missions could all be completed using the Family Tree app …
Danny and Liliana Bolaños live in Eagle Mountain, Utah, where they serve in their Spanish-speaking ward as Ward Mission Leaders. Highlights 6:50 Making sure members understand their value The youth in their ward love missionary work and aren’t phased by the challenges of the pandemic, and know their value as children of God and as […]
My Inspiration This girl's was amazing and inspired me to do this whole set. These were my three favorites.
Whether you're a missionary, ward mission leader, or member of the ward counsel, these outreach ideas are PERFECT for bringing people together!
Need creative ideas for extra callings in your ward, that are actually helpful?? Ward Councils, Bishoprics, these ideas are for YOU!!
Last weekend we had our annual Women’s Retreat. This is one of the best weekends of the year! It’s always full of delicious food, sweet
Great ideas to keep you connected while you still have to stay apart at church.
Here's 100+ Relief Society Activity Ideas to help you as you're planning your next shin dig with your ward or branch.
While young single adult wards can be a great place to make new friends and meet new people, there are a few tell-tale signs that you've become a veteran young single adult. See how many of these you relate to and share the ones we missed in the comments below!
Whether your guest speaker backs out or you simply run out of time to plan anything elaborate, if you find yourself fumbling for something fun and productive to do for Mutual or a YSA ward activity, check out these fast and fun activities.
Tonight for our combined Young Men / Young Woman activity we had a 'Handcuff Dinner' We tied all the kids hands together and served them a...
Louie D. Hamner III has served with bishoprics as a ward clerk, finance clerk, and executive secretary, as a bishop and a bishop’s counselor, as a Young Men president, and in the elders quorum. He grew up in a farming community in Mount Auburn, Indiana, and graduated from Utah Valley University in Accounting. Today he […]
I have a new calling at my church! . I've been in activity days. Primary. Relief Society...and now I'm back in Young Woman's! (If you want to know more about my church...go here!) The miamaids
Thank you to all of the ladies who were able to come to our May Enrichment! It was a lot of fun! Our theme was "I Mustache You a Question....
Painting with Lisa January 6, 2016 For the January activity, the Welby 7th Ward Relief Society sisters were able to enjoy a...
Who doesn't love talking about their trips??! In my ward we always have refreshments first:-) The plan for the activity is as f...
In my previous post, " 4 Group Date Ideas for LDS Teens, " I talk about some of the major obstacles for LDS Te...
Elkanah, a certain man of Ramathaim in the mountains of Ephraim, had two wives. His first wife was Hannah. The second was Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah was barren. Though we usually focus on
We had a fun activity for our youth last night. We made a huge "Mormon-opoly" board and had popcorn to snack on. We even had huge dice to roll. It was a little crazy but all in all, they had a great time. Quite a few were asking when we could play it again. Phrases not ordinarily heard in the Church..... "Somebody give me money cuz I own Bethlehem." "OK everybody, pay attention! We're getting ready to auction off the temple." "Are you in jail? - No, we're just visit teaching." "OK, we're trading the Urim & Thummim"
The Church News’s mission is to record the news and growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the ministry of its leaders. Learn more.
Grab our free marriage resources here! By Dawn R. Ward You can be your husband’s secret admirer, no matter how long you have been married. His Secret Admirer Do you admire your husband? If you are a newlywed, you are still in the honeymoon phase, so without hesitation, you most likely answered, “Yes!” For those […]
Our ward family history committee, consisting of youth and adult consultants, planned this ward activity for all ages. Held on a Thursday evening it took the place of the combined activity for the…
