Dec. 27, 2020
Dear 5th Ward Family
I hope this finds you healthy and happy following our Very Covid Christmas celebrations. It is likely that you were meeting with friends and family via phone and computer to express feelings of love and longing. Remember, we must have faith that this is a “one-off” year and we look forward to a return to more settled times.
It is with sadness that I report the passing of Brother Lewis Raiche, who was reunited with his sweet Shirley at about 5 am the past Monday morning. Brother Raiche was a character in a world where we don’t have enough characters. He will be greatly missed and our sympathies and prayers go out to his family, especially his daughter Sister Colleen Hatch.
I want to thank all of you who have commented about my talk from last week. It was brought to my attention that I may not have completed the story of the “spoiled hooligans” who were, and are, my nephews. I should point out that while by birth I was their uncle, two were older than me and the other two were fairly close to me in age. That they did not treat me with the kind of respect an uncle usually deserves/receives, likely goes without saying. On the other hand, we grew up doing many things together and not only became very close, but remain close to this day. On the other hand, I stand by my comments from that winter of 1968. Lol
I would also like to thank all those who have remembered Lori and me in some way this Christmas season. We are extremely blessed to live in a ward with so many wonderful and thoughtful people. You have been so extremely generous with so many in our ward and I sincerely thank you for your thoughtfulness.
I know I also said that one of the things we thought we were going to miss was the family nativity, but I think I also mentioned that maybe our kids had something in the works. Indeed, on Christmas Eve, we gathered electronically for our favourite game of “Balderdash”, with the category being movies: Christmas during the Covid pandemic. Everyone had two minutes to provide a synopsis of a movie that fit the bill. Most were Hallmark themed in some way. But the last was a long synopsis of many of our former real “winners”. Then Abby, who spearheaded the night, said, we now have a movie to show, and lo and behold, there was the cutest little nativity starring all of the grandkids and a very evil James as the innkeeper. We’ve watched it several times over the last few days. It brought tears to our eyes as it truly brought the true meaning of Christmas into our home. What a blessing.
We are in the midst of that “awkward” time of year, really the calendar equivalent of adolescence. We’ve spent so much time looking forward to, and celebrating Christmas, which, as the song says, really is the most wonderful time of the year, and haven’t quite reached the beginning of the New Year, with all of it’s possibility of renewal and recommittment. As I was raised in a family obsessed with sports, we would often fill the time going to various tournaments, either as spectators or participants. More recently, we have booked a gym either here in Cardston or in Calgary and would gather our extended family together for games, food and socialization. It certainly served to strengthen family bonds and to fill in the schedule between Christmas and New Years.
But this year, the gymnasiums remain locked and shuttered and the possibility of a family gathering has been statutorily proscribed. So, if you are like me, you are looking for something else to do to spend your time.
As I think back to my youth, one of the things we did as a family was to attend tithing settlement. It seemed to me as though the only time to do tithing settlement was in the week between Christmas and New Year’s eve. It was always cold, and usually dreary, the day we made our way to the Bishop’s office to declare our tithing status. As a small boy, surviving on an allowance of $.25 per week, it was relatively easy to do the quick math. 10% of $13.00 is year, or $1.30 in tithing. Issues such as whether I should pay on my gross, or net, or not pay on CPP and other Pension contributions, let alone whether the money I had received had already been tithed, were many years in the future. It was more God’s simple principle of paying 1/10 of my increase that held sway. Perhaps this was an early example of how it is we men who make things complicated. Anyway, the bishop would ask each of us if we were full tithe payers, and we would respond. It was a great lesson taught to me in my formative years.
This year, as I have conducted tithing settlement, we have had to make concessions to our rather strange circumstances. I’ve asked some of you face to face, but most I’ve contacted by telephone. In each case, the question is the same: are you a full tithe payer. You declare, and I record your answer. It is a wonderful opportunity to “return and report”.
I know I have been unable to speak with some of you. If you would like to report your status, please call me.
We have, for the past 3 years, on this last Sunday of December, asked a select group of members to come forward during our Sacrament meeting, and share with the ward what their favourite hymn is and why, then had the congregation sing it. Of course, this year we aren’t meeting on this particular Sunday, nor would we be able to sing the hymn, so we are not going to have that opportunity. I remember that the first year we sang each verse of each hymn, and that wasn’t conducive to having very many people participate, so we’ve gradually cut the number of verses down on each hymn. It’s interesting to note the responses of those asked to give their favourite hymn. I realize some people just don’t like standing in front of a congregation to speak, even about something like a hymn, and they may even have some feelings of resentment towards me for putting them in an uncomfortable position. I apologize. However, it could be worse; I could ask you to sing your favourite hymn for us.
But this year, as we aren’t meeting together, I would like to share with you my favourite hymn. I should preface this by saying that one of my treasured parts of worship is the ability to sing hymns. There are so many that I find uplifting in so many ways. “The Morning Breaks”, “The Spirit of God”, “I’ll Go Where You Want Me To Go”, and “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” are some of my favourites, and each has a story associated with it.
However, if I was asked to name just one hymn that I would call my absolute favourite, it would be “I Stand All Amazed”, music and lyrics by Charles H. Gabriel in 1905. Gabriel is purported to have written nearly 8000 songs during his life.
When I was taking seminary during the mid 70’s, our teacher, Brother Jack Stone, reminded us of a lesson he learned from Elder Boyd K. Packer included in his 1982 book “That All May be Edified”. Elder Packer taught that we can supplant bad thoughts with good by learning the words to a hymn, and when bad thoughts creep into our minds, we can sing or recite the words of the hymn to drive them out.
Brother Stone challenged us all to learn a hymn during one seminary class. I chose, “I Stand All Amazed.”
I stand all amazed
At the love Jesus offers me
Confused at the grace
That so fully he proffers me
I tremble to know that for me
He was crucified
That for me a sinner, He suffered,
He bled and died
I marvel that He would descend
From His throne divine
To rescue a soul so rebellious
And proud as mine
That He would extend His great love
Unto such as I
Sufficient to own, to redeem
And to justify
I think of His hands, pierced and bleeding
To pay the debt
Such mercy, such love and devotion
Can I forget
No, no, I will praise and adore
At the mercy seat
Until at the glorious throne
I kneel at His feet
(Chorus)
Oh it is wonderful,
That He should care for me
Enough to die for me
Oh it is wonderful,
Wonderful to me
These expressions of wonder and awe for the love of our Saviour have brought me through times of trial and torment. I think sometimes this song was written just for me. He is my Saviour and Redeemer. I Stand All Amazed for His love, His sacrifice and His gift to us all.
I am also continually amazed at the love shown by our ward one to another. I had an example of that this week when, with both Lori and me being away, someone came and cleared my driveway. Thank you so much. Your gift will not be forgotten.
I look forward to a time when we can all be together again.
Stay safe, stay healthy and social distance.
We love you all
Bishop Brooks
Saturday, December 26, 2020
Bishop Brooks' letter December 27th
Thursday, December 24, 2020
Sunday, December 20, 2020
Church December 20th - Merry Christmas
Bishop's talk
Christmas Talk
For
Cardston 5th Ward
Dec. 20, 2020
Good afternoon brothers and sisters. It is so wonderful to meet with you today, and to once again celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
One of the benefits of being in my position is the ability to pick and choose the days when I will speak. An extra benefit, during this time of Covid, is that I can actually remove my mask for a few minutes while delivering my talk. Lori said it’s almost enough to make a person want to volunteer. Almost.
I’m sure like many of you, we are looking forward to a Christmas unlike any we have previously experienced. Yesterday, Lori and I drove to Calgary, where 4 of our children live with their families, and delivered the final Christmas gifts we had been working on these past few weeks. We loaded the truck up with all sorts of things that mostly Mrs. Claus has been envisioning these many months and went to four separate homes where we did a pretty good job of maintaining our social distance and unloaded the presents one by one. At each house, we wished the grandkids a Merry Christmas and dealt with the reality we wouldn’t be seeing them in person this next Friday. Instead, we’ve selected times when they will FaceTime us so we can watch the grandchildren open their gifts. We’re scheduled to start at 7:00 am with James’ family. So, no sleeping in this year for Grandpa and Grandma Brooks.
There is an amazing sense of joy and excitement in the face of a young child as they tear open the wrapping paper and look at the contents inside. Mrs. Claus spends months buying, planning and wrapping, all so she can watch those joyful expressions on Christmas morning.
Our daughter Abby took her three children, ages 8, 6 and 4 to see Santa this year in a pretty pandemic proof area of the mall. Brynn, the 6 year old said, upon seeing the man himself in his red velvet suit, “Are you the real Santa? I’ve seen hundreds of pretenders and I want to know if you’re the real guy.” He assured her he was and she then felt comfortable sharing her rather extensive list of wants.
One thing we are truly going to miss this year is the annual nativity. We’ve got enough grandkids here now to have a complete ensemble cast of Mary and Joseph, two angels, a donkey, a sheep and a cow, but alas, we don’t have an infant available, although if we had simply postponed Christmas a few weeks, that role too would have been complete. Our son James was grateful for the increase in our progeny as his part has, for last several years, been that of the donkey. However, as you are all painfully aware, we are simply not going to be able to get together to pull it off. We were asked to take the Nativity costumes with us to Calgary yesterday, so maybe the kids have something in mind. Lori is usually the program director, costume designer and set dresser. I’m not sure they can do it without her hands on direction, but we shall see.
I think I mentioned earlier this summer that Abby got me a subscription to StoryWorth, which is essentially a journaling program. Each week it asks me a question and I’m supposed to respond. I must confess I have been somewhat dilatory with respect to that assignment. Sometimes the questions ask me to remember things I would just as soon forget. Other times, they are extremely personal and I am loathe to share my responses with anyone, let alone my children.
This week, however, it asks me about my most memorable Christmas. Now that is an interesting question. Note the context; it doesn’t ask me for my best Christmas memory, or my favourite Christmas experience, rather it asks for my most memorable Christmas. This year will be my 62nd Christmas, so I’ve got a few to choose from, although frankly my memory of the first 3 or 4 is pretty scant.
I know I’ve said before that I grew up attending this building as part of the then Cardston 1st Ward. I have vivid memories of a nativity consisting of large, cut out figures portraying the Nativity being placed somewhere up on the area near the organ and piano. They were kept in the choir loft behind me during the rest of the year. A few weeks ago, we were getting something out of that choir loft and I must confess I was disappointed not to see the familiar Nativity figures peaking out from behind the filing cabinets. Each year, we sang every Christmas carol in the hymnal, and because we met and sang in Sunday School as well as Sacrament meeting, sometimes we got to sing our favourites more than one time per season. A huge real Christmas tree, fresh cut from the foothills, stood in the northwest corner of the cultural hall and was trimmed with lights and other decorations. It seemed to be put up sometime in early December and wasn’t removed until the New Year arrived. I recall it always being a beautiful example of a true Christmas tree.
This was in direct contrast to the tree we had in our home. While we too had a real tree for most of my formative years, that, and it’s colour were the only things held in common between the Church tree and our home tree. It seemed like my father was always surprised by Christmas’ arrival and he would rush to find the last tree from the lot behind Ken’s Confectionary, throw it on the roof rack attached to our family station wagon, then, without the assistance of ratchet straps, or occasionally even rope, slowly drive it the 5 blocks to our home. I can only imagine that the tree did, on occasion, show some reluctance in being part of our Christmas festivities by detaching itself from the car, because my father was often in a foul and decidedly un-Christmas-like mood by the time he arrived at our house. The next hour or so was spent trying to find a side of the tree that did not include large areas completely bereft of needles or even branches. Nevertheless, my mother was an absolute wizard at setting up the tree. She organized its trimming by removing from storage the relatively simple, but to her priceless, collection of ornaments she had managed to accumulate over the years. The only new additions to festoon the tree were the icicles, thin, spaghetti like ribbons of silver- something that had to be replenished each year because once they stuck to the boughs of the even sparsest tree, they were there to stay. My job was to throw said icicles, usually in large, tangled clumps, onto the branches. It was the only task to which I was apparently suited. Imagine my dismay when, upon getting married, I discovered my skill with icicle throwing was not to be allowed within 30 feet of any tree Lori was decorating.
Which leads me to my most memorable Christmas. All things in the year of 1968 seemed to be going as per usual. It was remarkably cold that year, in fact, the local radio station had a contest to see how long it would be until we finally once again had a high temperature above 0 degrees centigrade. The tree had been recently erected and trimmed, with the appropriate surliness of my father and enthusiasm from my mother, when we received a phone call from my oldest brother, Bill, who lived with his family in Raymond. An emergency had occurred. Their 7 month old son, Jacquie, had come down with pneumonia and Bill and his wife Dawn needed to be in the hospital in Lethbridge around the clock. I remember my mom coming upstairs to my room and telling me we were going to spend Christmas in Raymond with my 4 nephews and 1 niece. Mom and Dad were going to babysit. Their oldest child was 10, two years older than me, and the rest lined up about 2 years apart in descending order. That was the plan. I was devastated. Firstly, Christmas got moved up by 3 days. Magically, Santa found his way to our home on December 22, with only the promise of a small gift or two finding me in my own version of Alcatraz. Secondly, to be blunt, my nephews were, in my eyes, little hooligans. That they were born and raised in Raymond was, I’m sure, just a coincidence. Anyway, I quickly found out I had yet to be enfranchised, and therefore had no say in the matter, and we loaded into the aforementioned station wagon and headed to Raymond.
What started as an immature reluctance quickly transformed into an outright loathing of the circumstances. I discovered that what I thought were an adequate number of presents usually awaiting me under the tree was far outstripped by the treasure trove of gifts all with my nephews’ names on them. I was shattered. Not only were they hooligans, they were spoiled hooligans. Against this background were two of the longest and completely unfulfilling days of my life.
On day two of my confinement, my brother Bill arrived home, had a quick few minutes with his kids, then spent a little longer with my parents. He was his usual jovial self with the children, but markedly more somber when speaking to mom and dad. I asked my mom if everything was ok. She told me Jacquie was extremely ill and we needed to remember him in our prayers. She fasted the rest of that day. Christmas arrived the next morning and Bill was there as the kids opened their presents. He left soon after to return to the hospital. I remember being so jealous of all the presents my selfish, hooligan nephews got to open. The next day, Jacquie passed away. I’m sure we went home for a couple of days, if only to get clothes for the funeral, but what I really remember is seeing that little tiny coffin placed in front of the pulpit in the Raymond Stake Centre. The day of the funeral was so cold people were starting fires under their propane tanks so the propane would flow to heat their homes and fire their stoves.
We stood in that cold in the Temple Hill Cemetery as the grave was dedicated and the body interred. I remember my brother and sister-in-law being grief stricken and watching my selfish hooligan nephews crying. I suppose I cried too.
I had an epiphany that day, even though I was only 8 years old. I realized that the pomp and circumstance of the Christmas I had grown to know was shallow in the extreme, or maybe I learned that it was me who was being shallow.
One of the talks that day was about families being together forever through the atonement of Jesus Christ. Now this was not the first time I had heard about that, but it was the first time the reality and importance of it really struck home. To my 8 year old mind, this was something noteworthy in the extreme.
7 years later, I was asked to portray the Saviour in a Book of Mormon pageant being held in the building now called the Civic Centre. I remember kneeling down the night of the first portrayal and crying for help to somehow, some way, adequately perform that role. To say I was overwhelmed would be a vast understatement. The next three nights, I was aided and uplifted in a way that confirmed then, as it does now, that Jesus is the Christ, our Saviour and Redeemer. The Spirit bore that witness to me, and despite frailties, imperfections and indiscretions, I cannot deny that truth.
It is His birth that we celebrate at this treasured time of year.
When Nephi was privileged to be taught by an angel of God as recorded in 1 Nephi 11 we read:
16 ... Knowest thou the condescension of God?
17 And I said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things.
20 And I looked and beheld the virgin...bearing a child in her arms.
21 And the angel said unto me: Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!
24 And after he had said these words, he said unto me: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the Son of God going forth among the children of men; and I saw many fall down at his feet and worship him.
26 And the angel said unto me again: Look and behold the condescension of God!
31 And he spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the Lamb of God going forth among the children of men. And I beheld multitudes of people who were sick, and who were afflicted with all manner of diseases, and with devils and unclean spirits; and the angel spake and showed all these things unto me. And they were healed by the power of the Lamb of God; and the devils and the unclean spirits were cast out.
32 ...And I looked and beheld the Lamb of God, that he was taken by the people; yea, the Son of the everlasting God was judged of the world...
33 And I, Nephi, saw that he was lifted up upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world.
It is during this Christmas season that we celebrate both His birth and His mission. He is our Saviour and Redeemer. He knows and loves each one of us. The babe in the manger, born over two millennia ago into humble circumstances, is truly the Great I Am. Let us focus on His message and honour His sacrifice by following His teachings and serving those around us is my prayer, both now and throughout the year.
I would be extremely remiss if I didn’t acknowledge all the efforts that have been made by so many during these past nearly 10 months. When I speak with our members, they point out the efforts of our ministers, assigned or otherwise. Thank you so much for looking out for one another. I especially would like to thank Brother Schaffer and Brother McMurray, along with Brothers Spenser and Rowe, who have been so supportive of me. As well, we would not have been able to last these past months without President Widmer and President Jasperson before him, who, with their counsellors, have served so diligently. And of course to President Oertli and her counsellors, who are truly such an integral part of our ward fabric. President Oertli is my rock during these troubled times. And lastly, I cannot begin to thank Sister Debbie Fletcher enough for her amazing work with the blog. It has been our lifeline during these past months. If information is a source of power, it can also be a source of comfort.
May we all have a Merry Christmas as we try to draw closer to Him. I leave you with these thoughts in His Holy Name, even Jesus Christ, Amen.
Deb Bartok’s Number
Peter Davidsen’s Number
Creed’s Number
Saturday, December 19, 2020
The Christmas Story - Auckland, New Zealand
This is done by the children of the St Paul's Church, Auckland, New Zealand December 2010 and there are sooooo many sweet parts to love!
Bishop Brooks' letter December 20th
December 20, 2020
Dear 5th Ward Family
Well, today is the last Sunday before Christmas. Even though the calendar makes if clear that Christmas is only 5 days away, I can’t help but believe it has come much too quickly. Like most of you, we will be having a different Christmas, without the physical presence of family and friends and I must confess I am saddened by that.
Our daughter Abby was at work the other day when someone made a similar comment regarding missing Christmas with family. One of her co-workers, an immigrant to this country, said they had about had it with people complaining about not being able to have Christmas the way we would like it. He said where he came from, many people didn’t even have a home to live in and that we should be grateful for we do have in such bounty.
That is a sobering thought; even under our current restrictions, we are so blessed. However, as I pointed out to Abby, the fact we will be missing family, even when we have so much, is something we need not be ashamed or embarrassed about. And while we likely could do more for those who are not so blessed, perhaps this will allow us to not simply take for granted the wonderful opportunities we have to spend time with family.
I’d like to share with you what has become something of a tradition in our family. 40 years ago, when I spent my first Christmas morning with Lori’s family in their home in Hillspring, I was impressed that her Grandpa and Grandma Pilling had taken the time to write a short letter to each of their grandchildren to be read on Christmas morning. In the letter, they shared some personal thoughts and bore testimony of the importance of the gospel of Jesus Christ in their lives. It brought tears to Lori’s eyes as she read the beautiful words of her grandparents written in the artistic penmanship of her Grandmother Pilling.
Now, let’s fast forward approximately 25 years to one of those discussions most men dread. Lori said, “I’ve got an idea for Christmas.” (Let the dread begin). “I think we should write each of the kids a letter for Christmas.” (Meaning, I think you should write each of the kids a letter for Christmas. Ok, one more thing to do for Christmas. I mean, I was already planning on getting a gift for Lori, what more was expected?) “I think it would be a really good thing for the kids.” (Meaning, I think it would be a good thing for both you and the kids.)
Now, as I said, we’d already been married for 25 plus years and I was smart enough to know when it’s just easier to say yes and hope she forgot about it. But oh no, this was something that we (I) was going to get done.
So, it started with 5 letters. Sometimes they were written at 1:00 am Christmas morning and (usually) lovingly placed in their stockings. Other times, I would get them done several days in advance. They started on plain paper, then advanced to Christmas stationery. Occasionally, I wrote them reluctantly; sometimes I wrote them with enthusiasm. But each year, they were written. And we (and I mean we) noticed something. Each year, the kids would pull the envelope first thing from their stockings and the room would grow quiet as they read their letter. It was a chance to tell them how proud we were of them, and how grateful we were for all they did. There would often be tears, but they were happy tears.
Eventually, the kids all grew up, moved away and got married. If they came home for Christmas with their new husband or wife, the letters of course were there, but we also sent them on if they were spending Christmas at the in-laws. One year, James was with Lexi’s family in Arizona and we had sent our gifts, including the letter, to the in-laws so they would be waiting for them on Christmas morning. All the gifts were opened and James said, somewhat reluctantly, was there a letter for me? It had been put in another room and forgotten. He got to read his letter that spoke of our eternal love for him.
We decided it would also be a good idea to write a letter to the kids’ spouses as well. So through the years the letters increased from 5 to eventually 10. We (I) got them done early this year and they have all been delivered to be read on Christmas morning.
But this year we thought we would do something different. Rather than a completely individual letter, we combined the personal comments with common advice to all of the kids; things we have noticed during the past year, and especially during the past 9 months, that we think are important and can be worked on by all of us. I’d like to share that portion of their letters with you. I hope it isn’t too personal and can be received in the spirit of love with which it was written. This is the excerpt:
We would like to share with you some observations and beliefs concerning things we consider both relevant and important during these strange and difficult times.
1. Be kind to one another. As we watch how people deal with others, especially via social media, we see a tremendous mix of people at their best versus their worst. It never ceases to amaze us the good and bad that can come from comments placed on Facebook and other social media sites. The former can be tremendously uplifting, while the latter is nothing short of bullying and can be extremely deleterious. With respect to the negative comments, what people will say anonymously what they wouldn’t dare say to a person’s face is cowardly in the extreme. Life is too short and our influence potentially too broad to run the risk of making comments that can have, in some cases, life changing effects on the subject. On the other hand, positive comments can have exactly the opposite offence. A kind word or thought can literally lift someone’s spirits and improve their self-worth in an immeasurable way. So, be kind.
2. Be grateful. There are so many things that happen on a daily basis for which we should be extremely grateful. The ability to express gratitude does not come easily to many. Whether it is because of a sense of entitlement, or excessive pride, some people simply cannot recognize those things that are provided for them and for which they should be grateful to those that provide those things. Whether it’s being grateful to a teacher, a student, a neighbour, a parent, a child or a stranger, the ability to recognize the gift they have provided, sometimes unknowingly, is to be able to recognize that we are not an island unto ourselves and that we cannot exist in a vacuum. Saying thank you lifts both he or she who utters as well as the recipient. President Nelson recently encouraged us to express our gratitude both to the people around us and to our Father in Heaven, indeed he said that by expressing gratitude, we can heal the ills of the world. So, be grateful.
3. Learn to forgive and try to forget. This might be one of the most difficult things we have to deal with as human beings. It is so hard to forgive those whom we believe have wronged us in some way. The interesting thing is that sometimes the offender doesn’t even know they have done something wrong. Yet, we are commanded to forgive. “
I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.” ( D&C 64:10)
For those of you thinking good, I don’t have to forgive women, that’s not what this means. We are to forgive all people. You may think it’s just another commandment with no other residual benefits (which by the way is a dangerous approach), but there is ample scientific evidence that forgiving someone who has wronged you has both physiological and psychological benefits. This is true even if the person being forgiven doesn’t feel guilty or responsible for anything. The more difficult task is to forget. Sometimes, forgetting a wrong is far more difficult than forgiving and of course there are times when forgetting is neither possible nor advisable. However, those situations are the exception. Actually letting go of a wrong can free you from ongoing anxiety and feelings of anger and guilt. It is a method of cleansing the mind and body that cannot be duplicated by substances, prescribed or otherwise. So, forgive and try to forget.
4. Maintain family bonds. During this time of Covid, likely as never before, the importance of family has been underscored. There is a yearning in the human psyche that is largely part of our makeup to belong to a family group. We so want to belong to a family unit and experience the joy and warmth that is associated with that. It’s true that, unfortunately, many of our insecurities and imperfections are a direct result of our family relationships. That is where the forgiveness and forgetting part discussed above is so important. We must remember that we, hopefully, have all grown up and become more well rounded and mature individuals. Being able to move forward with a relationship rather than dwelling on past problems and affronts will allow those family bonds to bolster us in times of trial and support us when we most need it. It’s sad that often times the mending of family bridges is left to occasions such as funerals. Many opportunities to spend time together and enjoy each other would have already been lost. So, stay close to family. And lastly;
5. Be generous. We have been blessed with so many things. We all live in accommodations with amenities that even just a generation ago were unimaginable. We all have cars, TVs, electronic devices and smart phones. The necessities of life are rarely, if ever, a concern for us. Yet, there are those around us who still wonder where their next meal will come from. It should go without saying that we should be generous in our tithes and offerings, especially fast offerings, but we have other ways to help. Whether it’s being a secret Santa, providing a plate of cookies to a neighbour or friend, or, (gasp) giving change to a street person, we can lighten someone’s load. King Benjamin said “For behold, are we not all beggars?” There will come a time when we will be called to account for our treatment of our fellowman. And perhaps as importantly, giving to others just makes you feel good. It’s an opportunity to extend Christ-like love and to share in the feeling associated with that. So, be generous.
This is the portion of the letters I wanted to share with you. I think this simple advice will provide a roadmap to happiness and peace that seem elusive during these troubled times.
We love you and are proud to have you as part of our family.
Stay safe, stay healthy and social distance.
Merry Christmas to you all.
Bishop Brooks
Monday, December 14, 2020
Saturday, December 12, 2020
Bishop Brooks' letter December 13th
December 13, 2020
Dear 5th Ward Family
My, things have certainly taken a change during this past week. I know I’m not alone when I say that the prospects for the Christmas season have certainly changed. Lori and I had planned to spend most of the Christmas holidays with our family in Calgary. We realized we had too many people to all gather together for our usual Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, so we were going to split into two groups. I’m sorry to say we complained a bit about not being able to be all together. Now, we would give anything to have that as an option. So it looks like we will be here in Cardston and enjoy our family through the magic of technology. I threatened Lori that we would enjoy Christmas dinner thanks to Colonel Sanders, but she made arrangements for a turkey breast that will do nicely, I’m sure. I know we aren’t the only people in our ward who are making some last minute changes to our Christmas plans. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
In the meantime, I have once again procrastinated getting the only gift I absolutely cannot forget. It’s even doubly bad because Lori really does (choose one) most of the/the majority of/all of the Christmas shopping. I try, I really do, but when we did most of our Christmas buying in the stores, I found myself wandering into the men’s wear or sporting goods areas and often ended up getting something for myself. This year is no better as even shopping on line often results in me looking at new shirts and suits for Eric rather than looking for a present for my dear wife. There really should be a class on this in Elder’s Quorum.
Anyway, I finally decided to just come out and ask Lori what she wanted for Christmas. It helped that I happened to be looking at an appropriate web site when I asked this question. She answered as I thought she might, and low and behold, in less than 30 seconds, an appropriate gift (read, I don’t think she’ll return this one) was chosen. I was feeling very smug with myself, and then this morning I got an email from said supplier. It said, and I quote “Eric, thank you for your order. You made our day!”
I have to confess I hadn’t really considered the impact my little present might have on anyone other than the intended recipient. In fact, when I first got the email, it made me laugh right out loud. After all, they have a product for sale, Lori liked it, and I bought it. Really, the two people who should have our days made are, in no particular order, Lori and me; Lori because she’s getting something for Christmas she really wants, and me because I’m now officially finished my Christmas shopping more than 13 days before I’m usually able to say that. Now I’m not so naive to believe that this wasn’t anything other than an automated response from the seller, but I couldn’t help but think about the principle of gratitude that we have been encouraged to focus on during these difficult times. We are, of course, grateful for those things we receive, or at least we should be. We also should be grateful for the opportunities we have to provide for others, whether it be in the form of gifts, service, or simple attention. It is this area of gratitude where I sometimes fall short, and I dare say I am not alone.
I’m sure we are not the only grandparents who are busily trying to get something special for our little grandchildren. I often ask Lori why we continue to get things for them, when they have perfectly good parents who can fill that particular responsibility. Our garage and shop have become a southern version of Santa’s workshop as we build, restore and repurpose items for children and grandchildren. There was a time when I would have balked at the many projects Mrs. Claus has planned. But just the other day, I was talking with my oldest daughter about the changes in Christmas this year when I was overwhelmed by a feeling of loss when I realized we wouldn’t be spending Christmas together. Suddenly, I felt an extreme sense of gratitude that we could, despite not being present in body, nevertheless make a difference for our family from afar. The ability to help someone, in whatever way, no matter how simple or small, indeed brings with it a sense of joy and appreciation that often far outstrips the receipt of a gift. In many ways, I think it gives a small glimpse into the love our Saviour has for each of us. His message was not about receiving, but giving. How grateful I am for the opportunity to be able to experience that, if only in minuscule way. The joy that comes from trying to be like Him and following His example of giving is eternal.
So while the online store probably didn’t really experience the joy of having provided the gift in question (after all, I did pay for the item), they nevertheless could have experienced the satisfaction of providing a product that was enjoyed by someone. I think that’s why Christmas is so wonderful. We have an opportunity to show gratitude and love to others by some small token. Of course, it goes without saying that the true intent and focus of Christmas should always be the birth and mission of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. But when we show love to one another, and recognize them and try to lift their burdens, we are reverencing the Christ child and all He does for us.
That is Christmas for me. And that makes my day.
Of course, the big announcement this week regarding Sacrament meeting is that we can only have 15% of our Fire Code occupancy. The FM group informs us this will be 107 people. Our last two Sacrament meetings we’ve had significantly fewer numbers than that. We will meet at 10 am this morning and then Sister Hague is doing a Zoom Sunday School class at 2 pm this afternoon. This is our first go at this so please log in if you can.
Next week, our Sacrament meeting will be at 1:30. It is our Christmas Sacrament meeting and we know that some of you will want to have family attend. Remember that we are still supposed to social distance from everyone who is not in our immediate household. For those who will not attend in person, we are going to try to have musical numbers, which will be prerecorded, as well as the talk, hopefully put up on our Stake YouTube channel so you can watch them from home. We’ll let you know about the final arrangements when they are made.
I cannot begin to tell you all how much I love an appreciate you. We have an amazing ward full of amazing people.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and social distance.
Love
Bishop Brooks
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
Premier Kenney announces stronger Covid-19 public health measures
https://www.alberta.ca/enhanced-public-health-measures.aspx
Mandatory, province-wide restrictions are in effect to protect the health system and slow the spread of COVID-19.
Bend the curve
Due to Alberta’s high case numbers, aggressive action is required now to protect our health system from being overwhelmed.
The current situation is critical. These mandatory restrictions apply provincewide and will be in place at least until January 12, 2021.
Health officials are monitoring the situation and will adjust measures if required.
Gathering restrictions
Alberta declared a State of Public Health Emergency to protect the health care system from COVID-19. Social gatherings are the top source of transmission.
all indoor and outdoor social gatherings have been prohibited. This will be enforced with $1,000 fines.
Canada’s COVID-19 economic response plan
Financial support programs are available to help people, families and businesses facing hardship as a result of COVID-19.
Small- and medium-enterprise relaunch grant
Funding is available for small- and medium-sized businesses, co-ops and non-profits impacted by COVID-19 to offset a portion of their costs.
Why these measures are needed
Albertans have a responsibility to slow the virus's spread and make sure the health system can continue supporting patients with COVID-19, influenza and many other needs.
There is a time lag between when people get infected and when new cases are identified. This means the cases we see today were infected up to 2 weeks ago.
We must work together to protect each other. The greater the community spread, the more likely it will infect our loved ones most at-risk of severe outcomes, including death.
What else you should do
Albertans must continue following existing public health measures to keep everyone safe:
- Stay 2 metres apart when you can, wear a mask when you can't
- Practice good hygiene: wash your hands often and cover coughs and sneezes
- Monitor your symptoms every day
- If sick, stay home, get tested, and follow mandatory isolation requirements while waiting for results:
- if positive, isolate from others for 10 days or until symptoms are gone, whichever is longer
- if negative, stay home until you're better
- Avoid non-essential travel
- Get the flu shot to keep influenza cases low so health workers can focus on the COVID-19 pandemic
- Download and use the ABTraceTogether contact tracing app when out in public
Enforcement
If you violate a public health order, you may be subject to a $1,000 fine. Additionally, you can be prosecuted for up to $100,000 for a first offense.
If you are concerned someone is not following public health orders, you can:
- remind them that not following orders is against the law and puts people at risk
- submit a complaint to AHS public health inspectors online or call 1-833-415-9179
Complaints that require an immediate response can also be reported to your local police force through their administrative phone line.
Sunday, December 6, 2020
Calgary Canada Mission webpage: FindingFaithInChrist.org
Put Christ in Christmas like you’ve never felt before.
visit findingfaithinchrist.org
Send the link to your family and friends and share the love with them.
You can also access “light the world” directly from this site
Stephen A. Keung
Canada Calgary Mission
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Bishop Brooks' letter December 6th
December 6, 2020
Dear 5th Ward Family
So, let’s deal with first things first.
I have to apologize to everyone who wanted to attend last week’s Sacrament meeting but didn’t because of the information we had that restricted our numbers to 95. About 8 o’clock Saturday night, the government regulations were clarified and the number being used was 1/3 of the fire code capacity. Effectively, that means our entire ward could likely attend given the space available in the cultural hall, stage, and other over-flow areas. We tried to get the information out, but I’m sure many of you didn’t read it until too late. Last week, in particular, was an extremely fluid situation. I’d like to say that is no longer the case, but I wouldn’t be truthful if I suggested that. The reality is we are asked to follow the directions of our elected officials. So, we will.
A special thank you to all those involved with the Primary presentation, which never disappoints. Our primary children are amazing, and have a real penchant for performing. I’m not sure I’ll ever think of the story of Abinadi in quite the same way. The presentation was extremely well done.
I’d also like to thank President Widmer and the Elder’s Quorum for being the lead in this year’s Food Drive. I must confess I was reluctant to allow our ward to be involved given all the Covid restrictions, but it was organized and executed in a safe and efficient manner. Thank you for all who contributed for even though we are in the midst of a pandemic, there are many who would go hungry but for your generosity.
I hope you have had a chance to watch the Christmas wishes arranged by the Relief Society. We are so lucky to have a chance to reach out to one another despite the current situation. Remember to contact your ministering families. The one area of fallout we are currently experiencing is the sense of loneliness. Pick up your phone and call someone. You will be inspired as to whom that person is.
I can’t help but remember my first Christmas away from home. It was December of 1978 and I was a missionary in the city of Ichinomiya, Japan. I had arrived in country during the first week of that month, so when Christmas came just a few weeks later, I really had yet to be acclimatized. I’m not sure whether it helped or hurt that the Japanese really don’t celebrate Christmas. The decorations were restricted to a few Christmas trees in department store windows. The whole concept of celebrating the birth of the Saviour was lost on the vast majority of the population. So that was a little depressing. On the other hand, I’ve never eaten so many Japanese oranges, or as we called them when I was growing up, Christmas oranges, in my life. The branch members seemed to understand how much we loved them and brought box after box to us. And these weren’t the 4 or 5 lb. box we get here, they were sometimes 20 lb. boxes of deliciousness. We ate them by the dozen, made mandarin orange syrup for our pancakes and even squeezed them for their juice. It was incredible. But tropical fruit aside, Christmas was quite lonely that year. Missionary calls on Christmas Day were still a thing of the future, so I was left to simply speculate as to what my parents and family were doing on that Christmas morning.
Luckily, I had a mother who was in tune with the needs of her youngest son. A box arrived, not long after Christmas, that contained treats and gifts, but most importantly, contained photos of that Christmas being celebrated by family. The decorated tree, surrounded by presents, my brother-in-law heading out to feed the cows and chickens, and the table covered by an amazing Christmas dinner with all the fixings, were all there in picture form to remind me of our family’s way of celebrating Christmas. Now some would suggest that such photos would only have served to distract me from the work. I would beg to disagree. Rather than making me homesick and interfering with my calling, it gave me a sense of calm and peace and reminded me that I had parents and family that loved and supported me and while they missed me, they wanted me to be the best missionary I could be.
The missionaries from our ward are likely in need of some moral support this Christmas season. Their addresses are on the blog. Spend time and send them a letter, or an email, to let them know you are thinking of them. Theirs is not an easy lot right now. As Covid continues to rage, they are doing their best to serve using technology. It would be easy to get down in such a situation. You can let them know how much you love and respect them for their sacrifice. And don’t forget their families here at home. Sending a young man or woman into the mission field is no less a sacrifice for parents and grandparents than it is for the missionary son or daughter. Reach out to them as well.
So next Sunday, we will meet at 10 am for Sacrament meeting. There will only be one meeting. All of the restrictions and protocols will likely remain in place. We look forward to as many attending as are able, bearing in mind the usual cautions regarding health, age and anxiety.
The following Sunday, December 20, we will meet at 2:00 pm. This is to allow all three wards to have a meeting that is Christmas centred on the Sunday immediately preceding Christmas. We are looking forward to both meetings and again hope to see as many of you as are able to attend.
Stay safe, stay healthy, social distance and know that we love you all.
Bishop Brooks