Questions and Answers

“How can I find friends who will also help me live the gospel?”

“To have friends who live high standards, who stand for virtue and goodness, who are faithful and true to their covenants, you must be such a person to them.”

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “True Friendship,” New Era, Oct. 2016, 5.

Pray and Seek

“First, pray. Asking Heavenly Father for help is always a good first step. Next, put yourself in places where good people spend their time. When you are in uplifting places, you will meet good people. Lastly, be open to different kinds of people. You never know who Heavenly Father has in store for you to meet.”

Tate N., 14, South Carolina, USA

Share God’s Love

“You can start by treating others the way you want to be treated. Help them live the gospel and feel the Savior’s love. Your influence can help them do the same for you.”

Sadie M., 13, Utah, USA

Iron Sharpens Iron

“Always live true to your standards, and the right people will be drawn to you. If your friends don’t live the same standards as you, remember that you can be a Christlike example to them. ‘Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend’ (Proverbs 27:17).”

Clark H., 16, Utah, USA

Invite and Have Courage

“Inviting people over to play games and eat food has helped me make new friends. I also talk to people at Church dances. I’m a little bit shy, so I usually stick with my group, but I’m glad I decided to have the courage to meet new people, even when it is awkward sometimes.”

Hannah P., 14, Hawaii, USA

Take the First Step

“Take the first step and say ‘hi’ to someone. You can invite them to your house. Sometimes I pray, and it helps me be more confident in case they don’t say yes.”

Anaya P., 12, Hawaii, USA

Look for Happy

“We must look to the standards of the Church. Become friends with those who are following God. Look for others who are happy and trying to live the gospel.”

Amelie P., 14, Brazil

Be Open about Your Beliefs

“My family moves pretty often, so I know how hard it can be to find new friends—especially friends who can help me live the gospel. I’ve learned to be open about what I believe in. Let others know who you are and what you stand for. The people you connect with may not be members of the Church, but they can still be great friends.”

Sophia N., 15, Philippines

Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine.

What Do You Think?

“My dad died not long ago. How can I feel happy again? He was my best friend.”

Send your answer and photo by July 15, 2023.

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Responses may be edited for length or clarity.