How does God gather us?

April 12–18

The Savior has commanded us to “be one.” He said, “If ye are not one ye are not mine” (Doctrine and Covenants 38:27). One way we become one is through gathering.

President Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, has taught, “Our Heavenly Father is anxious to gather and bless all of His family.”¹ Here are three ways we can gather and become united in faith.

1. Gathering in one place

In the earliest days of the Restoration, God commanded His Saints to “be gathered in unto one place … to prepare their hearts and be prepared in all things” (Doctrine and Covenants 29:8).

Early Latter-day Saints gathered in many places, such as Ohio, Missouri, Illinois, Utah, and England. Gathering together helped strengthen members and build the Church.

2. Gathering where you are

Over time, Church leaders began to encourage members to gather and build the Church in their homelands. No matter where members gather together, they can participate in gathering scattered Israel. The Lord declared, “I have a great work laid up in store, for Israel shall be saved” (Doctrine and Covenants 38:33).

3. Gathering on both sides of the veil

God has called us “to bring to pass the gathering of mine elect” (Doctrine and Covenants 29:7). This includes those we gather through missionary work and those we gather on the other side of the veil. Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has taught, “When we gather our family histories and go to the temple on behalf of our ancestors, God fulfills many … promised blessings simultaneously on both sides of the veil.”²

Discussion

What blessings have you received through gathering with other Saints? How have you been blessed by helping God gather His children?