Why I volunteer at the Layton Family History Center

In D&C 4:2 it says, :  “Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.”

As a Ward Family History Consultant, we are asked to volunteer at the Center for at least four hours a week.  This can seem kind of daunting…..and in some cases it may seem to be impossible.  I wasn't sure how I was going to be able to find the time to spend at the Family History Center when I was first called as a Ward Consultant.  Life doesn't seem to ever slow down.  I had lost my job in December of 2012.  I wondered what I would do with all my extra time!  No worries……my daughter left her abusive husband and came to live with me, with her three children age four and under.  My father had just passed away the previous year, so I took over care of my mother three times a week.  At the time I thought "Well….so much for free time!".  Then I was called as the Ward Family History Consultant!  When I learned that part of the calling included volunteering for a shift at the Center, I wasn't sure how that was going to work out. 

We are told to be “anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of [our] own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.” D&C 58:27. 

I quickly found out that making the sacrifice to volunteer at the Family History Center wasn't as hard as I thought it was going to be.  Our family has received many, many blessings from this service.  Helping others find information about their ancestors not only helps our patrons, but helps me as well. 

I have been able to learn while teaching others. 

I have had some very spiritual experiences doing the Temple work for my own ancestors and have helped others do the same.

I have felt angels around me and my family, protecting and helping us as I have done this great work.

So, if you haven't had the wonderful experience of being a volunteer at the Family History Center, please come give it a try!