Family History

In August, the youth of the Albany Stake hope to baptize an entire stake (between 1500 and 2000 family names) as part of their youth conference in Palmyra, New York.  

Wednesday morning (6 a.m.) we met with a seminary class in the Schoharie Valley to help them find names of ancestors needing ordinance work.  They were prepped and ready with laptops and dates.  About 15 students (3 were non-members) took to searching for names like they were born for it (which they were).  

We began by showing the 4-minute video “Finding Our Cousins-Using New Tools on FamilySearch.org” and gave them a handout that reviewed the steps covered quickly in the video.  The rest of the time was hands-on.  Elder Ellsworth worked with the new students, getting them registered, while Sister Ellsworth and the elders circulated the rest of the group to give individual help as needed.  It was a privilege to witness their enthusiasm for this work so early in the morning.  No doubt they will meet their goals and be ready in August. And no doubt they will be blessed for it!