Defenders of the Family Proclamation

Sister Bonnie L Oscarson gave this talk in the April 2015 General Conference.  She spoke about the importance of the Family Proclamation with the following words, “The proclamation on the family has become our benchmark for judging the philosophies of our world, and I testify that the principles set fourth within this statement are as true today as they were when they were given to us by a prophet of God nearly 20 years ago” (Oscarson, 2015)

She went on to talk about how as women, we are not all experiencing what the proclamation declares. (Oscarson, 2015)  Often we are not in the ideal circumstance, but we need to the best we can.  This is the Lords plan for us, and we should do our best to follow it.  She goes on to explain, that “Heavenly Father is aware of our righteous desires and will honor his promises that nothing will be withheld from those who faithfully keep their covenants.  Heavenly Father has a mission and plan for each of us, but He also has His own timetable.” (Oscarson, 2015)  As long as we are trying our best, and keeping out covenants, he will still uphold his side on the promises he has made with us, in his due time.  I hold him to this covenant.  Knowing this, allows me to place my trust in him and know that everything will all work out in the long run.

The family Proclamation is the Lords words, and follows his principles and teachings. We need to defend this document, and understand if it is the Lords plan, it is also our plan and should be defended as such.

One principle Sister Osarson also taught was, “these is no greater honor, no more elevated title, and no more important role in this life then that of mother or father”. (Oscarson, 2015)  This is a very important statement.  We are to become mothers and fathers and understand that this role as the elevated and honored title it is. 

Finally, Sister Oscarson concluded with the following courageous and powerful statement, “Let us help build the kingdom of God by standing up boldly and being defenders of marriage, parenthood and the home.  The Lord needs us to be brave, steadfast and immovable warriors who will defend his plan, and teach the upcoming generation His truths”. 

I loved this talk, as I have been studying the proclamation to the family as part of my college prep classes.  This has great quotes shows to me the importance of the proclamation put together over 20 years ago.  It has stood as a testament to the plan and truth of the Lords plan.   We can stand up for this family design, we can do what is right, we can make his plan, our plan.

Works Cited

Oscarson, B. L. (2015, May). Defenders of the Family Proclamation. Ensign.