More Meaningful Class Discussions

We’ve all been there. Another Sunday lesson that we aren’t fully engaged in. Our thoughts are turned to what might be for dinner, what’s the score in the sports game, what’s on social media, or wondering if a friend from school will still talk to us. We may have wondered sometimes what is the point of being in that class. So I ask, can we find purpose in something that we may have learned before or aren’t super interested in at the moment?..... The answer is a resounding YES! There is great power in meeting together as youth to discuss gospel doctrine, and we can learn to thoroughly engage ourselves in Sunday discussions. Below are a few tips on what to do and what not to do during quorums and classes:

WHAT TO DO:

1. Prepare the classroom by “establishing ground rules in which students and teachers listen to one another and express appreciation for what is being shared. This will create an environment in which all can share, teach, and testify.” (from How to Teach Engaging Lessons for Youth )

2. Study materials beforehand to be able to support the teacher (Even 5-10 minutes can really give some great insight and help you feel inspired to share experiences and thoughts). Our weekly CFM study follows right along with Sunday lessons, so it is easier to study the materials.

3. Pray for inspiration, teach and learn with the spirit

4. Show up on time

5. Share personal stories and specific scripture examples that tie in to the topic

6. Listen attentively to the teacher and everyone else that participates in the discussion (turn your body/face towards them, look them in the eyes, show interest in what they are saying)

WHAT NOT TO DO:

1. Look at social media or play games

2. Text

3. Read a book

4. Criticize others for sharing their thoughts

5. Zone out or nap

6. Be disruptive

Now that we have a list of what to do and what not to do during a Sunday lesson, let’s address the purpose of quorums and classes. The introduction to the youth’s Old Testament ‘Come Follow Me’ manual states:

“The Lord has given you a sacred trust……. Young Women class and Aaronic Priesthood quorum meetings are different from Church classes like Sunday School or seminary. In class or quorum meetings, we do more than study a gospel topic. We learn about the work God has given us, and we organize the members of our class or quorum to do that work in our homes, in the Church, and in our communities. In these meetings, we don’t just talk about the work—we make plans to fulfill our roles as part of the Lord’s youth battalion, including helping to gather Israel.”

“But this emphasis on the work doesn’t mean that we leave doctrinal discussions only for Sunday School. In fact, learning doctrine in Young Women classes and Aaronic Priesthood quorum meetings is essential—it helps us strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ, understand Heavenly Father’s plan, and take part in Their work. As we study the gospel together, the truths we learn can change our hearts and help us know how to act in more Christlike ways. We can receive promptings about ways to increase “in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man” (Luke 2:52). As we become more converted to Jesus Christ and His gospel, we will find joy and feel desires to help others along the covenant path."

These powerful words share great promises that we will be blessed with as we fulfill our roles in our quorums and classes. Our Heavenly Father and Savior have given us all of the tools we need to be able to succeed and receive these promised blessings. So, whether you are attending Sunday classes to search for truth or you are simply attending so your parents don’t turn off wi-fi, you will be blessed for any efforts you give to learn and engage during lessons and discussions.

Because we live in a world that constantly battles for our time and attention, this article and video were created to help us better understand the sacred trust and responsibilities that we have been given, how to utilize our time together in quorums and classes, and how to give the Lord the best part of ourselves. Then we can in turn become our best selves as we align our lives with the Savior’s. I pray that you will listen to the spirit and follow the promptings that you are directed with. Your life will be richly blessed, and you will not regret the time you spend getting to know your Savior and His gospel.

Thank you to the Harrisonburg 2nd ward youth and leaders for participating in this video!