Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas Around the Ward

It was Christmas Around the Ward on the evening of Sunday, December 16. Approximately 70 ward members visited the decorated homes of Ray and Linda Lowe, Ed and Linda Sappington, John and Roma Goldhardt and of course Dick and Ruth Graf, in a 3-hour period for fun, food and socializing during the holiday season.  Thanks to Ruth Graf for organizing the event, to those who opened their beautiful homes, to those who donated their favorite holiday dishes and to those who braved the cold winter evening to share in the spirit of the season.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Relief Society Celebrates Christmas

In their usual way, the Relief Society outdid themselves in the planning and presentation of a party to celebrate Christmas.  Thanks to the vocal talent of Boyd Kanenwisher and to Liz Larsen and Aspen Erskine on the piano and flute, the sisters were beautifully entertained.  Thanks, also, to those who generously donated their Christmas décor as centerpieces and to Jill Jones and Dori Wilkerson for decorating a small tree devoted to ward members who have passed away in 2012 including Dan Clinger, Banard Hafen, Keith Landon, Elwin Cammack, Jim Sevy, Wilson Wright, Jim Reid, Tom Pinder, Bob Golding and Lois Baker.  Special thanks to Jeanine Smith and her food committee, including Deann Hill, Gayle Morowitz, Nancy Church, Carol Stephen, Margo Parker and Betty Kingsbury. 

Saturday, December 8, 2012

B7 Youth Enjoy Breakfast with the Bishopric




Sleepy-eyed and hungry, the youth of the Bloomington 7th Ward gathered on Saturday morning, December 8 to share time and good food with members of the Bishopric.  The Beehives and Deacons enjoyed breakfast at the home of 2nd Counselor Roy and Carol Stephen's home.  MIA Maids and Teachers gathered around the table at the home of 1st Counselor Mike and Bobbie Twitty and Bishop John and Roma Goldhardt hosted the early morning get-together with the Laurels and Priests.  Everyone went away filled spiritually and physically - and warmed by the love of the Bishopric!

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Ashley Wilkes Earns Young Woman Recognition

Ashley Wilkes has faithfully completed all the requirements necessary to receive the Young Womanhood Recognition and was recognized for her accomplishment during a recent Sacrament meeting.

This award recognizes young women in the Bloomington 7th Ward and throughout the church for worthiness and for completing Personal Progress requirements. As a recipient of the award, Ashley has shown she honors her commitment to live the commandments and the standards of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in an established pattern of progress in her life and as stated in For the Strength of Youth. Through her Personal Progress, the daughter of Robert and Chardell Wilkes has committed herself to keeping her baptismal covenants as she prepares to make sacred temple covenants, serve those in need by sharing her gifts and talents, and striving to strengthen her home and family.

YW President Cheryl Kanenwisher states, “Ashley is a wonderful example of a Young Woman who knows her divine nature and individual worth. She lives a life of integrity, faith, and virtue. You will always see her performing good works and seeking ways to increase her knowledge. She understands how important it is to make good choices and be accountable for her decisions. I have loved getting to know this beautiful, wise young lady. She is a joy to me and I am very proud of her. I'm thankful, daily, for her example in my life. Congratulations Ashley!!”

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Ward Christmas Party

It was still November when members of the Bloomington 7th Ward gathered on Friday, November 30 for the ward Christmas party, but the spirit of the season was clearly evident in the social interaction, the music, and the good food!  Special thanks to James and Anne Bertschi for organizing the event and to Elaine Christensen who stepped in and added her own special touches.  Music was provided by the Dixie State College Vocal Jazz Project and the B7 Primary!  Thanks, too, to the kitchen staff including Cameron Sevier, Pauline Smyly, Shirley Golding, Taj Becker, and the Young Men and Young Women.  Special thanks to Mike Twitty and Shar Simkins for the little extras. 

Saturday, December 1, 2012

YW of Excellence Evening

According to the Church Handbook of Administration, “the Young Women in Excellence is an event in which young women are recognized for the good things they are doing and a celebration of Personal Progress.”  On November 28, 2012 the B7 YW in Excellence program for young women, ages 12-18, and their parents followed a theme of “Keep Calm and Marathon On.” 

Annie Green compared her experience as a long-distance runner, who has completed more than one St. George Marathon, with living and strengthening a testimony of the gospel and Jesus Christ. The mother of three and daughter of Becky Peterson, another long-distance runner who has completed “hundreds of races”  told the girls they must “prepare, pace yourself and seek help along the way!”
 
Caroline Smith sang “Walk Tall, You’re A Daughter of God”

Lisa Carson shared her love and appreciation for the Young Women’s Program and in particular, the Personal Progress Progam as she prepares “for my own marathon as a missionary awaiting my call to serve the Lord somewhere in the world.”
In addition to the beautiful program, many of the B7 Young Women displayed their particular skills and talents and everyone enjoyed light refreshments and the opportunity to socialize together.