Happy 40th Birthday to the Friend!

The Friend turns 40 this month! It has been delivered to children’s homes since 1971. Here we will show you how the Friend came to be the way it is today.

1902: The Children’s Friend is created. In the beginning, it was mainly used by Primary leaders and parents.

1971: The Friend, a new, more colorful magazine under the direction of the General Authorities, is created to replace the Children’s Friend. Subscriptions in 1971: 168,000

1975: Friend to Friend: General Authorities share personal stories that teach gospel principles.

1979: Kitchen Krafts: Fun recipes for you to create with your family.

1981: Sharing Time activities.

1986: For Little Friends: Pages created especially for children ages three to six.

1989: The Church creates a Braille edition of the Friend for children with visual impairments.

1994: Matt and Mandy: We introduce everyone’s favorite brother and sister.

1996: Trying to Be Like Jesus: Your stories tell how you are trying to be like Jesus.

2001: Come Listen to a Prophet’s Voice: A member of the First Presidency shares a message with children.

2002: Special Witness: Apostles share important points about gospel topics.

2004: Friends by Mail: Your letters tell how the Friend has helped you live the gospel.

2009: We added games and activities to our Web site in January 2009. Check it out at friend.lds.org!

Current subscriptions: 304,000