Welcome, Early Morning Seminary teachers! After the spiritual feast of General Conference, we have a unique opportunity to help our students internalize and apply the teachings of prophets and apostles. This micro-training will provide you with strategies for effectively using General Conference talks in the months following Conference to deepen students' understanding and testimony.
1. Why Use General Conference Talks?
General Conference talks provide a wealth of insights that are relevant and inspired for our time. By using them in your Seminary lessons, you can:
Reinforce modern prophetic counsel in connection with scriptures.
Help students see how ancient teachings are applied today.
Encourage the students to remember and apply the messages long after Conference is over.
2. Methods for Incorporating General Conference Talks
Here are several methods you can use to seamlessly integrate General Conference talks into your daily Seminary lessons:
1. Thematic Connections to Scripture Lessons
Many of the topics covered in General Conference talks align well with the themes found in the curriculum. Take time to identify connections between the current doctrinal content and a recent talk.
Teaching Tip:
If you’re discussing faith, you might reference a recent talk about acting in faith, providing a modern-day example that students can relate to. Similarly, when covering repentance, consider one of the Twelve's words about the joy of repentance and connect it back to scriptural teachings in the Book of Mormon.
2. Quotes of the Day
Begin each class with a "Conference Quote of the Day." Select a meaningful quote from a recent General Conference talk and use it as a springboard for a short spiritual discussion. You could also invite students to do this as part of their devotional.
Teaching Tip:
Write the quote on the board before class starts. As students come in, have them read it and write down their thoughts or impressions. After a brief discussion, connect the quote to the scriptures you are studying that day. This helps students see how the messages from Conference and the scriptures work together to provide guidance.
3. Student-Led Discussions
Invite students to choose a General Conference talk that resonates with them. Have each student briefly share their selected talk over the course of several weeks, discussing why it stood out to them and how they’ve applied the teachings.
Teaching Tip:
Encourage students to find a specific quote or story from the talk that stood out to them, and then lead a short discussion on how the principles apply to the class. This not only helps them engage with the material but also strengthens their ability to teach and testify.
3. Activities to Keep Conference Talks Relevant
Keeping the lessons from General Conference alive means finding creative ways to revisit them. Here is one engaging activity. You will have better ideas, I'm sure.
1. General Conference Journal Review and Reflections
Encourage students to keep a Conference journal where they write down their thoughts and impressions from specific talks. Once a month, ask them to pull out their journals and reflect on any actions they’ve taken as a result of the talks.
Teaching Tip:
Provide time for a personal check-in where students can quietly reflect on their progress. Allow those who feel comfortable to share any insights or experiences. This keeps them accountable for acting on the counsel they’ve received.
4. Following Up and Encouraging Application
General Conference messages are intended to change lives. Encourage your students to apply what they’ve learned and reflect on their experiences.
Teaching Tip:
Use specific follow-up questions like, "How have you seen Elder Uchtdorf's counsel about facing challenges with hope play out in your life this week?" or "What did you do this week to apply President Nelson’s invitation to seek personal revelation?" This kind of follow-up helps students see the practical impact of prophetic teachings in their day-to-day lives.
Monthly Challenges:
Each month, present a “Conference Challenge” to your class. For instance, challenge your students to re-read or listen to one specific talk and share how they applied its teachings in their life. Set aside time for students to share their experiences, which strengthens testimonies and builds unity within the class.
Conclusion: Bringing General Conference Into Daily Learning
Incorporating General Conference talks in your Seminary lessons gives your students access to fresh revelation and helps them see the connection between ancient scripture and modern-day counsel. These teachings can have a profound impact on your students, helping them grow spiritually and gain a greater understanding of what the Lord is asking of us today.
Challenge for Teachers:
Pick one of the strategies shared above and implement it this coming week. Whether it’s General Conference Moment or the Conference Quote of the Day, try it out and see how your students respond. You might be surprised at the insights and discussions that unfold!
Thank you for your dedication to your Seminary students. Your influence helps students develop lasting spiritual habits and a deeper connection to prophetic teachings.
Best!
HD
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