“Look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future”

July 31 - August 2

Why do we need such resilient faith?

It is because difficult days are ahead.

Rarely in the future will it be easy or popular to be a faithful Latter-day Saint. Each of us will be tested. The Apostle Paul warned that in the latter days, those who diligently follow the Lord “shall suffer persecution.” That very persecution can either crush you into silent weakness or motivate you to be more exemplary and courageous in your daily lives.

President Monson said: “… fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.”

The Purpose of a Handcart Trek

The purpose of a trek is to provide spiritual opportunities, under the leadership of the priesthood, where youth can gain a deeper appreciation of the principles of faith, obedience, and sacrifice.

Core Gospel Principles Taught on Treks

1. Faith: Faith in Jesus Christ and in His restored gospel motivated, sustained, and succored Latter-day Saints as they entered the waters of baptism, journeyed to America, endured adversities, and contributed to building Zion. This same faith, if possessed by today’s youth, can enable them to withstand adversity, make sacred covenants, and contribute to the “building up of the Kingdom.”    (May focus)

2. Obedience: “No obstacles are insurmountable when God commands.” (Heber J. Grant, Teachings of President of the Church: Heber J. Grant). Motivated by their faith in Jesus Christ and their desire to be obedient to a prophet of God, Latter-day Saint converts gathered together in the American West where they could make temple covenants and help establish Zion. If the youth of the Church are to triumph over evil and obtain eternal life, they too must learn obedience to God’s commands.     (June Focus)

3. Sacrifice: Latter-day Saint immigrants left homelands, families, and friends behind, shared resources, endured the rigors of ocean and overland travel, and sometimes, as in the case of the 1856 tragedy, suffered illness, extreme hardship, and even death in order to gather to Zion. When tragedy struck in 1856, the Church, under the direction of Brigham Young, mounted a heroic and dangerous effort to rescue the emigrants, deliver them safely to the Salt Lake Valley, and to provide care and comfort. By following the example of the early Saints and applying the principle of sacrifice in their lives, the youth can obtain blessings from Heaven and acquire the “faith necessary unto life and salvation.” (Joseph Smith)     (July Focus)

As the youth of the church participate in treks, they can learn of the faith, obedience, and sacrifice exhibited by the handcart pioneers. Treks provide teachable moments” in which the Spirit of the Lord can touch the hearts of the youth and instill within them these principles, which can guide them on their trek through life’s wilderness.