We officially went into a government mandated quarantine in mid-March. We were informed from our ward bishopric that we could hold Sacrament meeting within our own homes during this time period. The kids understood what a special and unique opportunity we were given. Definitely not every Sunday is peaceful and 6 months later I still don't feel like I've got this home church thing down, but there really have been some special moments in our family during these Sunday home church meetings. Some of my memories that I want to make note of from this time: the kids writing and giving (Myles with help) their talks, musical numbers from Emma and Myles--especially "My Own Sacred Grove," our Easter Sunday together--I was moved to tears with the spirit that was in our home as we talked about the Savior's resurrection, an occasional singing time when even Luke would get into it, Bryan's gentleness as he leads our family through this uncertain time, our family's Sacrament tray that will become part of our family history and holding our Sacrament meeting in the mountains.
It strengthened my testimony of our living prophet. He announced policy changes way before Coronavirus hit that helped our family navigate this sudden change. The Come Follow Me curriculum was already "in place" and we worked on building upon it. The requirement for witnesses of a live baptism previously changed to allow for any worthy, baptized member to be a witness. During quarantine when numbers for gatherings were greatly limited, this helped provide an easier means for people to be baptized. I also loved that worthy married couples no longer needed to wait a year for their sealing. I've thought about many couples who were married civilly due to the temples being closed and would previously need to wait the year. However, due to our prophet changing this policy long before COVID hit, couples will be able to be sealed to each other much sooner. HUGE blessings. It made me even more aware of how much our Heavenly Father loves us and wants to bless us.
