“Family Banner,” Ensign, Mar. 2010, 73
Family Banner
Rena Phung, Hawaii, USA
Our family was inspired by Elder M. Russell Ballard’s talk in the October 2005 general conference. He called on families to make “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” like a banner in their homes.1 We decided to take his admonition literally. On a piece of fabric, we wrote with a permanent marker: “Successful families are established … on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities.”2 We tied the banner to a pole and everyone signed the fabric.
Now the banner is a regular part of our family home evenings. Our sons enjoy taking turns holding the banner high as we recite our family theme. Sometimes we even march around the room if our flag bearer is especially energetic. Having the banner routine has added feelings of joy and unity to our family home evenings. Every week we’re reminded of the true principles our family strives to achieve.
Illustration by Beth Whittaker