Family Home Evening Helps: Come On Over!

As a child, I loved participating in family home evening with my family. When I moved away for school and career opportunities, I wanted to regain the “family” aspect in my single family home evenings. Rather than wait for an invitation, I realized I could do the inviting. At the beginning of the year, I decided to prayerfully choose a family each month and prepare dinner for them in my home if they would furnish the night’s lesson and activity. Would they! I had no trouble finding plenty of guests. To ensure a successful dinner, I asked about food preferences ahead of time and learned how to prepare meals for both small and large families. I enjoy cooking, but those who don’t could simplify meal preparations by assigning potluck dishes or serving just dessert. Spending time with others is more important than the food you serve.

By the end of the year, I felt my dinner invitations had helped me to become a more integral part of our ward family. As various family members have shared their testimonies in my home, my heart has been touched, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share family home evening with them.

Marian F. Ashley, Delaware

Illustrated by Beth Whittaker

Illustrated by Joe Flores