Have you ever wondered why there is such a massive emphasis on family history work? Understanding our serious responsibilities to seek after our dead completely changes how we view the afterlife. This work is not just a casual hobby; it is a fundamental responsibility for all members of the Church.
The embedded document below contains an incredible collection of 754 apostolic quotes regarding this exact subject. It covers everything from premortal covenants to the specific blessings promised to the youth who engage in this work. By studying these teachings, you will find immense motivation to gather your ancestors.
Table of Contents
The Greatest Responsibility: To Seek After Our Dead
The Prophet Joseph Smith boldly declared that the greatest responsibility in this world that God has laid upon us is to seek after our dead. It is a divine obligation that rests with equal force upon all members of the Church, regardless of their position or calling.
We are literally called to become saviors upon Mount Zion by performing these vicarious ordinances. Every Latter-day Saint is responsible for this work, and our own salvation is largely dependent upon it.
A Premortal Partnership with the Lord
Our dedication to this work actually began long before we were born. In the premortal world, we made a specific agreement to be in partnership with the Lord for the salvation of the living and the dead. We agreed to act as saviors for the entire human family.
All the holy prophets and apostles who have lived in past generations are currently looking down upon us, expecting us to fulfill these sacred covenants. God trusted you by letting you hear the gospel in your lifetime, giving you the chance to offer it to your ancestors.
Divine Help from the Other Side
You are never alone when doing family history research. When you hit a roadblock, the dead will guide the living to their records. Because they are anxiously waiting for their temple work to be completed, those on the other side are very much interested in our efforts.
When you do all you can do, the Lord will open doors and heaven will cooperate to help you find the necessary information. This is a spiritual work, a monumental effort of cooperation on both sides of the veil where help is given in both directions.
Modern Technology Provided by God
The Lord has directly inspired the development of modern technologies to accelerate this sacred work. The internet and advanced computer programs have allowed researchers worldwide to connect families with incredible speed.
In fact, FamilySearch is now the world’s largest collection of family history data, provided entirely free to the world. These digital tools are a massive blessing meant to help us completely fulfill our divine mandate.
Incredible Blessings for the Living
Participating in temple and family history work brings a shield and a protection to our families. It helps us resist temptation, draws families much closer together, and greatly strengthens our faith in the Savior.
Furthermore, there is a special promise of protection specifically for the youth. By immersing themselves in this work, young people will find personal power to change, repent, and heal their families.
How to Start at Home Today
You do not need to be a professional expert to start receiving these blessings. You can easily begin at home by writing a personal journal and recording your own family stories.
You can also encourage your children to know and visit their extended families. By creating these simple, holy habits, you will naturally seek after our dead and change your family’s eternal trajectory forever!
