The outgoing Primary general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently shared reflections on their experiences and the ways service and participation help grow children's discipleship of the Savior.
As President Susan H. Porter, first counselor Sister Amy A. Wright, and second counselor Sister Tracy Y. Browning prepare to conclude their service, they discussed how various activities help children grow in their faith. A new Primary general presidency, consisting of President Rosemary K. Chibota and counselors Sister Nina M. Garfield and Sister Theresa A. Collins, is set to begin serving on Aug. 1.
The presidency has emphasized that baptized and confirmed children are members of the Church who can participate more fully in Church meetings. President Porter used an analogy comparing children to the toes of a foot in the body of Christ, noting they provide balance and propel the body forward.
As children are given opportunities to lead and participate in the home, in Primary, and in sacrament meeting, their testimonies and discipleship can grow, according to the presidency. In children's devotionals globally, children have conducted meetings, led music, sang in choirs, and played the piano.
Sister Wright noted that children are taught gospel principles and then go forth to follow Jesus. Sister Browning added that children have also planned and served in annual service activities, which provides an opportunity to watch them grow in discipleship.
Music plays a significant role in growing discipleship by teaching doctrine and planting songs in children's hearts and minds. President Porter noted that the new hymnbook, Hymns for Home and Church, places children's songs next to other hymns, leading to more children singing joyfully in sacrament meetings.
Members of the Primary general presidency also serve on executive councils of the Church. President Porter stated that these councils are not about professional experience, but about coming humble and spiritually in tune to share what the Lord has put in their hearts. Sister Browning said the executive councils allowed her to stretch in ways she could not have imagined.
Reflecting on their service, Sister Browning said she has come to recognize that discipleship is a plan for all of God's children. She expressed a greater testimony that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World, our Savior, and Redeemer.
Sister Wright stated that the presidency did not walk the path alone and called it a privilege to participate in such a miraculous work. President Porter expressed profound gratitude for the invitation to focus on and teach the Savior's littlest children.
