Dear Brothers and Sisters,
With the start of a new school year next week, many of us are feeling that mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with change. It’s a perfect time to pause and invite heaven’s help. I’d like to gently remind every father to consider giving your children a father’s blessing as they begin their new year. It can be a powerful source of comfort and strength for them.
If for any reason you aren’t able to give those blessings, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or a member of my presidency. We would be honored to assist so that every child in our ward can begin this school year with a blessing spoken over them.
I also want to share something that’s been on my heart. I’ve felt a quiet impression lately that some of us, as individuals or as couples, might be quietly struggling. Many are faithfully doing the “right things,” but there’s still something unseen holding them back, like there’s a spiritual speedbump they can’t quite scale over.
I’ll be honest; I’ve been there myself at times. There have been seasons in my faith, in my marriage, and in my life where I felt weighed down and unsure how to move forward. I know what it’s like to go through the motions but still feel like something’s missing.
It reminded me of my grandfather. He suffered for years with an abdominal hernia. He was too afraid to have the surgery, convinced the operation would kill him so he avoided treatment. Over time, his mobility declined, his mental health suffered, and eventually he endured long, painful, and unnecessary suffering, all because fear kept him from getting help.
Sometimes, spiritually, emotionally, or in our marriages, we do the same thing. We sense something isn’t right, but fear, or even pride, keeps us from addressing it. We continue on, hoping it will get better on its own, but the weight just grows heavier.
Christ’s invitation is different. He asks us to come unto Him, to lay down our burdens, and to allow Him to heal what’s broken. Often, that healing begins with a conversation with Him,… and sometimes with someone who can help.
If you or your family are feeling stuck or burdened in any way, please know that your bishop, the Relief Society president, and I are here for you. Nothing you bring will ever be “too small” or “too heavy.” and we will keep those conversations completely confidential. The purpose of this journey isn’t to shame or expose anyone, it’s to help us draw closer to God, not push further away from Him.
The Lord’s desire is for every home in this ward to be a place of peace, joy, and light. Sometimes the first step toward that peace is as simple, and as brave, as asking for help.
With love and gratitude,
Joe Ferrarini
Elders Quorum President