“New Era Connection,” Ensign, December 2018
Digital Only: New Era Connection
The New Era magazine is there for your teens—and for you. See how this month’s issue can help you talk with them and teach them.
Service, Gratitude, and the Spirit of Christmas
This month’s New Era contains articles that show how to serve and be grateful at Christmastime:
-
“True Gifts of Christmas.” Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf helps us focus on gratitude and on the Savior during the Christmas season (page 2).
-
“The Best Worst Christmas Ever!” This article shows that even when Christmas doesn’t go as planned, we can still be reminded of what matters most (pages 6).
-
“7 Ways to Catch the Christmas Spirit.” See how ministering to others can enhance your Christmas celebration (page 8).
-
“Following Mary’s Example.” Sister Becky Craven shows how we can be blessed by striving to adopt the attributes of Mary, the mother of Jesus (page 24).
Talk with Them
Here are some questions you might ask:
-
What are the Christmases you remember best?
-
How do you keep your mind on the Savior during the Christmas season?
-
How do you think you can make this Christmas a memorable one?
Teach Them
In family home evening or other teaching settings, consider using something you saw in the New Era. For instance:
-
Read “Christmas after the Hurricane” (page 16), and talk about a time when hardship has helped people band together and serve one another.
-
Read “Adding Gifts of the Spirit to Your Christmas List” (page 28), and talk about how pondering and seeking for gifts of the Spirit has blessed you. Invite youth to share a gift of the Spirit they desire to seek and why.
-
Read “Ministering as the Savior Did” (page 32), and talk about an experience when you have reached out to someone who needed your help. Invite youth to share similar experiences.