Mary Sanderlin passed away early on Monday morning.  The viewings will be on Friday, December 10th from 2-4pm and 6-8pm.  The funeral will be on Saturday, December 11th at 2pm at Bliley's at 8510 Staples Mill Rd. 

RS Announcements 12.1.10

STAKE CONFERENCE THIS WEEKEND
Adult session Saturday at 7pm at the stake center.  General session Sunday at 10am at Monument Building.  Fast Sunday will be the following week,  Dec. 12.

RELIEF SOCIETY DINNER
The RS dinner and program will be on Wednesday, December 8th at 6:30pm. Please see the post for 11.21 for more details.

WARD CHRISTMAS PARTY
The Ward Christmas Party will be Friday, December 10th from 6-8pm.  Please bring a potato dish if your last name starts with A - M and a dessert if your last name starts with N - Z.  Contact Adaire Webster if you have questions: adaire017@yahoo.com or 435-671-2232.

The MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR will be performing at the Norfolk Scope Arena on Monday, June 20th, 2011 at 7:30pm. Advance purchase tickets are now available to church members and guests through our ward. Adult and student discounts are available and are reflected below in the different price levels.  Please note that you must be 8 years or older to attend, and that student discounts are available to “children and students up to 25 years of age.”
                     
                          Adult     Student
Gold Circle:       $85.00   $85.00
Level 2:             $51.00   $45.00
Level 3:             $34.00   $30.00
Level 4:             $17.00   $15.00

For more information and to order/purchase tickets, please see Erik Lunde or email your request to ealunde@verizon.net or elunde@apva.com. These orders are time sensitive with regard to groupings and families being seated together. The sooner tickets are ordered, the better your seats, and likelihood of being grouped together, so please let Erik know as quickly as possible. Checks should be made payable to “Virginia Arts Festival” to be collected by Erik over the next couple Sundays.

Please see the side bars for details on the Chorale, Miracle of Christmas - Live at the Zoo, and the stake quilting day.

Angel Tree

The Angel Tree is now in the foyer.  If you would like to participate, please select an ornament, sign it out and return your donation by Dec 12th.  Detailed instruction sheets are available near the tree.  Questions? Christy Fiala 527-3164 or  fialac@aol.com

RS Annoucements 11.21.10

Stake Conference

Stake Conference will be December 4th and 5th.  The adult session on Saturday is at the stake center at 7pm.  Sunday we will meet at our building from 10am-noon where stake conference will be broadcast.

The Relief Society Christmas dinner

The dinner is on Wednesday, December 8th at 6:30pm.  A nursery will be available.  (Please let us know if your child has allergies.)  Also, we will be delivering cookies at Westport Health Care Center on Thursday, December 9th at 10am. If you would like to bring a dozen cookies, please contact Sarah Passey at spassey@hotmail.com. Also contact her if you can deliver the cookies the next morning.

Dinner for the missionaries

If you would like to sign up to provide dinner for the missionaries, please contact Marilene Petrinovich at 934-0883.

New Babies! 

Allison and Tim Thurber had a baby boy, Ian Clark on November 3. He was 8lbs 7oz.

Jen and Jeff Oakes had a baby girl, Ellis Ann, on November 10. She was 7lbs.

Tiffani and Wesley Smith had a baby boy on November 15.  He was 7 lbs 8 oz.

Congratulations to all of you, we can't wait to see them.

RS Announcements 11.14.10

Temple Trips This Week There are two opportunities to go to the temple this week.  Wednesday 11/17 the sisters are carpooling starting at 8 am from the Crossridge Shopping Center.  On Saturday 11/20 the Stake will have a temple day with sessions at 9 am and 9:30 am.  If you're interested in attending either and carpooling, please call Faye Mullins at 501-2101.

Christmas Stockings for the Elders
If you signed up to help fill Christmas stockings for the elders, please bring the items this Sunday.  The mission president has asked each ward to create two stockings.  If you would like to take on this project, please contact Lisa Pyron at lisapyron@gmail.com for the pattern and instructions.

Can You House a Pair of Missionaries?
The mission president would like to see more missionaries living in members homes.  If you're interested and can provide a separate bathroom for the elders, please contact Lisa Pyron at lisapyron@gmail.com for other details. 

Mountain Bikes and Missionaries
The mission is in need of mountain bikes to provide transportation for the missionaries.  If you have a mountain bike that you can donate, or wish to provide financial support to buy mountain bikes, please contact Lisa Pyron at lisapyron@gmail.com.

Have you turned in your Relief Society Survey?
Sisters, if you haven't filled out a survey yet with your interests and talents, please do so by next weekend!  You can have the form emailed to you.  Contact Karen Rich at devinandkarenrich@verizon.net.


I have been called into Young Women's as the secretary, but until they call a new secretary, you can email me with any questions and blog postings.  Have a great week!  Olivia

RS Announcements 11.7.10

A Survey for All Our Sisters
Thanks to everyone who filled out a RS survey on Sunday. The information on this survey will be used to plan RS meetings in the future, as well as identify sisters who can contribute skills, talents and special interests to our RS group. If you have one but didn’t get a chance to review it, please take some time this week to fill it out and return it to a RS presidency member next Sunday. If you didn’t get one, you can email Karen Rich at Devinandkarenrich@verizon.net for a copy, or pick one up in Relief Society next week.

Sister Lansing's Class Cancelled This Week
Sister Lansing's mid-week Institute Class is cancelled this week.  It will resume next Wednesday.

Stake Co-Ed Volleyball Tournament Thanksgiving Weekend
We are putting together a co-ed volleyball team for the stake tournament on Nov. 27th. Please contact the Kennedy's at tmkennedy@juno.com or 935-1545 to be on the team.  Go Glen Allen!

Youth Thanksgiving Dinner for Seniors 60+
The youth are providing a Thanksgiving dinner for sisters or couples where one or both are 60 or older on Wednesday, Nov. 17 at 6:30 pm.  If you visit teach a sister who would be invited, please check to see they received their invitation and if you can provide transportation that evening.  Thank you.

Temple Trips Coming Up Next WeekA sisters-only mid-week temple trip will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 17, meeting at 8 am at Crossridge Center on Staples Mill Road.  Saturday, Nov. 20 is the Stake Temple Trip.  If you'd like to attend and be part of a carpool, please contact Faye Mullins at 501-2101.

RS Announcements 10.31.2010

Happy Halloween!  Hope you had a festive weekend and a relaxing Sunday.  The weather was perfect!

We had a great lesson today in combined Priesthood and Relief Society meeting by Tish Heflebower who was teaching in her role as the Stake Employment Specialist.  She provided a lot of good information about how to cope during a job loss whether that's in immediate family or happening to friends/neighbors and she shared important resources.  Tish also asked for every one's help -- if you know of a job that's available at your place of employment, email her the job posting and it will get posted to the LDS job site.  Your name doesn't have to be associated with it unless you chose to do so.   Send the information, or any questions to Tish at Tish.heflebower@gmail.com

The Kennedy's have volunteered to head up the volleyball team, so if you're interested in participating, please contact Tyler or Mollee.

RS Announcements Week of 10.24.10

Temple Trip is this Wednesday
If you're interested in a attending the temple with sisters who will carpool to the temple, the next trip is Wednesday, 10/27. Meet at 8 AM at Crossridge Shopping Center on Staples Mill Road. If you're attending, call Faye Mullins and let her know: 501-2101

Ward Trunk or Treat is this Week!
If you haven't pulled out your chili recipe, do it now and enter in the cook off! Dinner will begin at 5 pm followed by the Trunk or Treat as kids go car to car for goodies! Prizes awarded for best chili and trunk design. Costumes are welcome, but no masks allowed.

Combined Relief Society and Priesthood Meeting Next Sunday
We'll meet in the gym this coming Sunday as we combine classes for a presentation from the Stake. Our very own Tish Heflebower will be one of the speakers.

Last Week to Finish Your Visiting Teaching for October
If you haven't had a chance to connect with your visiting teaching sisters, now is the time to make a call, write a letter or visit. New route assignments (if you received one) are effective this month.

Next Sunday's lesson is TWO conference talks.
Our lesson this coming Sunday is being given by Nedra Luke and will cover two talks from Elder M. Russell Ballard given the prior two conferences: Mothers and Daughters and Fathers and Sons. You can find links to the talks on the left hand side of the page (scroll down) in the Links You Can Use Now section.

Richmond Tri-Stake Single Adult Activity is this Saturday, Oct.23, 7 pm
Held at the Scotchtown Ward for single adults age 30 and older and their children, this event will include a bonfire, hotdogs and s'mores. Call Marisa Garofalo at 306-8719.

Remember Truck or Treat! Saturday, Oct. 30th at 5 pm.
If you know chili, you'll want to bring and enter it into this annual cook-off. Awards will be given! Hot dogs will also be available. Trunk or treat will follow the cook-off. Costumes encouraged, but no masks please. Bring the family and friends!

If you have brown scout shirts to donate...
Christy Fiala is looking for brown scout shirts if you have any that are no longer needed and you're willing to donate. Contact her at fialac@aol.com

Last, but not least, Cindy Hess will NOT be holding the baby clothing sale as originally planned on Oct. 30th.

RS Announcements Week of 10.10.10

Fall Relief Society Meeting is this Wednesday
In case you missed it, the next RS meeting is Wed., 10/13 at 7 PM at the Monument Building. Two informative classes will be held (see posting at the top of the blog) and a nursery will be available. Be sure to invite neighbors and friends.

We Now Have a Missionary Calendar Again
The missionaries are in need of a good meal each day -- and so we're passing around a calendar each week in Relief Society. If you'd like to provide a meal and don't see the calendar, please call the missionaries directly at 523-0682.

Scrapbook Supply Sale and Children's Clothing Yard Sale
There are two separate opportunities to save some cash and help two different sisters!

1) Tish Heflebower is selling a large collection of her scrapbooking supplies she at heavily discounted prices. (i.e., expensive paper sheets at 2 cents each and more.) She'll have a table this Saturday, Oct 16 from 9 AM to noon at the Memories Galore, Brandermill Store: 4800 Market Square Lane in Midlothian. Proceeds will go to the individuals selling items and not the store.

2) Cindy Hess, a sister who attends our ward from the Mechanicsville Ward, is holding a yard sale with infant and small children clothing at her home 1208 Lakeside Avenue on Saturday, Oct. 16 and then again Oct. 30 -- both start at 8 AM.

Start Planning Now for Trunk or Treat!
This annual Glen Allen activity is always a treat! It starts with a chilli cook-off. Get your entry ready now! This will be followed by Trunk or Treat -- as kids go from car to car to trick or treat. Prizes will be given for the best chili and trunk decorations. Costumes are welcome --but without masks. Saturday, October 30th from 5 to 7 PM.

RS Announcements 9.26.10

Relief Society Meeting Announcement

Save the Date! Wednesday, October 13th at 7 pm at the Monument Meeting -- Clean Up! That's our theme -- learn how to clean the "right way" around the house -- and learn how to 'clean up' your family's eating habits! Two lessons will be shared:

1) Darlene Lacy will give us the lowdown on cleaning tips, how to clean more efficiently using household products versus expensive cleaners....AND

2) Shelly Garfield will talk about nutrition and adopting healthy eating habits to keep our temporal bodies healthy.

A nursery will be provided.


Halloween Costume Swap After the Oct. 13 Meeting
Do you have a Halloween costume that you're not using or your kids have outgrown? AND are you looking for a new, slightly used costume for one of yours? Then let's SWAP! Plan on bringing your costume(s) to the meeting with a tag/label on it with size and your name/number so it can be returned to you.

RS Announcements 9.19.2010

General Relief Society Meeting is THIS coming Saturday, Sept 25th, 6:30 pm.
Be sure to attend the dinner and broadcast from Salt Lake City and hear a prophet's voice at our annual General Relief Society Meeting. Held at the Stake Center on Pump Road, the evening starts with dinner at 6:30 and then the broadcast starts at 8 pm. Sunday dress applies.

The Stake will be collecting "little treasures" for the Children of the Commonwealth Benevolent Fund to help infants to 18 years old in mental health, mental retardation and substance abuse centers. These include: basketballs, footballs, kickballs, soccer balls, Nerf games, soft cuddly dolls, games for all ages, puzzles (100 pcs or less) coloring books/crayons, fuzzy posters, any type of cards, personal hygiene items - deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotions, shampoo/conditioner, musical instruments, toys that do do not have glass or plastic parts or sharp edges and composition books.

It's Not Too Late to Join the Mid-Week Education Class
Our very own Erlynn Lansing is teaching the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History. Class starts at 10 am at the Stake Center every Wednesday and a nursery is available.

Thank You to All Who Helped the King Family
Thank you to all who helped with arrangements and/or food for the funeral service for Dan King yesterday. On behalf of Margo and his extended family, thank you for your kind service.

Funeral Arrangements for Dan King

Brother Dan King, husband of Margo King, passed away yesterday. There will be a viewing on Friday, September 16, from 6-8 pm at Woody's Funeral Home on Parham Road. The family will receive friends at 10 AM on Saturday, September 17th at the Monument Building, followed by the funeral service at 11 AM.

Tiffany Lundee is arranging food for the funeral service. If you'd like to help, please contact her directly.

Please note that the Book Club which was planned for this (Thursday) evening has been cancelled.

RS Announcements 9.12.10

Link to the Video in Kitty Choi's Lesson Today
In her lesson today about Latter-day Saints being covenant people, Kitty referenced the new video about the voices of the Spirit which can be found on the church's website front page http://www.lds.org (you'll need to scroll down) or on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPbDZnrxBLM

Apple Desserts are Needed for the Stake Fair this Saturday
Get out your cookbooks and whip up your favorite apple dessert. Entries for the Stake Fair contest are needed!! By the way, it's the dessert for the dinner too -- so the more who enter the more dessert for everyone! A Blue Ribbon will be awarded. See main posting above for more details on the Stake Fair.

Singles Family Home Evening Meets on Mondays
This week it will meet at Shelly Garfield's (Mon., Sept. 13) at 5:30 pm. She's at 6720 Miami Avenue and her phone number is 833-7925.

New Relief Society Temple Trip Dates are Posted
See the sidebar and Save the Date for info on the RS temple trips coming up.

The General Relief Society Broadcast is Two Weeks Away
Even though the broadcast is on the BYU channel and you watch it from the comfort of your own home, it won't serve you dinner! That's right; when you come to the Stake Center at 6:30 pm on Saturday, September 25th, you'll not only get dinner, you'll get to visit with the sisters of the stake and enjoy the spirit of the session in the Chapel. Donations of Little Treasures are being accepted and can be brought that evening (or to the Relief Society Room in advance). They are looking for balls, personal hygiene items, games, cards and musical instruments.

Reminder! The Adult Education Class begins this Wednesday.
Our very own Erlynn Lansing is teaching the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History. Class starts at 10 am at the Stake Center every Wednesday and a nursery is available.

RS Announcements 9.5.2010

Welcome sisters to the Relief Society Board
Today we had several sisters sustained to the Relief Society Board:

• Nedra Luke - Sunday Lesson Teacher
• Kitty Choi - Sunday Lesson Teacher
• Peggy Sculthorpe - Chorister
• Melyn Henderson - Pianist
• Sarah Passey - Enrichment Leader

We wish them the best in their new callings.

That's all the news for now. Have a great week.

Different Ways to Do Service This Month

SERVICE -- It's the Stake Theme for September

Tomorrow is Fast Sunday (and our new starting time at 9 am) and it's a great opportunity fast and pray over our Stake's theme of Service.

"The Lord in His infinite wisdom has designed His Church to operate with a lay ministry. That means we have been charged to watch over one another and to serve one another. We are to love one another as our Father in Heaven and the Lord Jesus Christ love us." Elder Ballard

The Stake sent out today the following ideas of how we can provide service to someone today, and every day!

• Make a dessert for your neighbor and deliver it to their door.
• Write a note or letter to someone that is sick.Young Men take the sacrament to a shut-in.
• Be friendly to a new kid at school.
• Say "Hello" to everyone you see at church.
• Invite someone or a family over for dinner.
• Cut a neighbor's grass for free.
• Call someone on the phone that you didn't see at church.
• While shopping open the door for a stranger.
• Write a letter or draw a picture for your parents or grandparents.
• Adults when was the last time you wrote a letter to your parents?
• Clean up your room without being asked.
• Offer to babysit for free so a couple in your ward/branch can go on a date.
• As a YW or YM class go visit someone from your class or an older member in the ward/branch.
• As a family clean out your closets and donate the clothing to charity.
• Make a donation to the church Humanitarian Fund or PEF.
• For FHE write letters to a missionary or someone in the military.
• Ask your parents, what can I do to help you today?
• Do something nice for someone you work with to help him/her with their job.
• Introduce yourself to a new member of your ward or branch.
• Send an e-card to someone who may be having challenges.
• Volunteer to help with a community activity.
• As a class do a small project to help someone in need.
• For the YM/YW it might be cleaning up the yard or painting a room.
• For a primary class maybe just visiting and singing some primary songs for a older member of the ward or branch.
• Share a toy or game with your brother or sister.
• Be nice to each other.
• Have a Family Home Evening lesson on Service and then write down what your family and you can do to serve others.
• Drive someone to church, grocery shopping, to the doctor, etc.
• Go out with the missionaries on exchanges.
• Pray and ask Heavenly Father how you can serve someone.
• For the primary children make cookies or cupcakes for your non-members friends and deliver them to their houses.
• For the YM/YW make a generous fast offering.
• If you a skilled craftsman ask the bishop/branch president if there is someone that needs a small problem taken care of.
• Every Sunday make sure to put the Hymn Books back in the holder correctly, clean up any paper or food around you after each meeting.
• YM/YW clean the sacrament trays and/or the nursery toys.
• Make a donation to your ward or branch's missionary fund to support the missionaries serving from your ward/branch.

This list is just a start, ponder what you can do help someone today.

RS Announcements Week of 8.29.10

New Meeting Time Starts This Coming Sunday - 9 AM

Please remember that our 3 hour block starts one half hour earlier, at 9 AM starting this coming Sunday, September 5th. This will be our meeting time for the next 6-9 months while the Richmond Branch building is remodeled. Please make sure all your visiting "teachees" are aware of the new time.



Stake Theme for September is SERVICE

The Stake has designated September as a month for Service. Members are asked to make this a priority in their family planning for lessons and activities. Bishop Fiala discussed today from the podium that his family has started going around the table at dinner time and everyone tells something they did that day to seek/do service for someone -- even if it was as simple as holding a door open for someone. He encouraged the Glen Allen ward families to find ways to make service a priority in their family in September.



Do you have a Child in Primary and Want to be "In the Know"?

If you're new in the ward and have a child in primary, send your email address to Primary President Shannon Garofalo and she'll put you on the Primary Mailing List and you'll stay up to date on all things primary! Shannon's email is: shannonlee_8@yahoo.com

Marriage Class Starts in September
If you and your spouse are interested in attending Marriage Class to learn how to be better communicators and have a stronger relationship, please contact Lisa Pyron, Relief Society President. Classes are being taught by and in the home of Roice and Nedra Luke on Sunday evenings.

RS Announcements 8.22.2010

Glen Allen Meeting Time Changes Sunday, September 5th
Starting Sunday, September 5, the Glen Allen Sunday meeting block is moving up one half hour and will begin at 9 am instead of 9:30 am. The new meeting time will be from 9 to Noon. This is being done to allow for the Richmond Branch to share the building from 11-2 pm while their building is being renovated for the next 7 or more months. Please let all those you visit teach know about the earlier start.

Uganda Relief Items Still Being Gathered
The shipment to Uganda won't occur until September, so if you still have items you'd like to contribute to the effort, please contact Heidi Maxfield, or Emily McCormick or email ugandarelief@gmail.com

RS Announcements 8.15.10

Young Women and Uganda Relief
The Young Women are collecting items for Uganda Relief through the end of August.
If you have any items (clothing, furniture, household goods -- any castoffs) these families can use, please call Heidi Maxfield at: heidimaxfield@hotmail.com or 972-2048 or contact Emily McCormick at: emccormick@shabbyapple.com or 267-0217.

Also, the Young Women's efforts were featured on the news this past week. You can find the story on line here:
http://www.wtvr.com/videobeta/1c0b8ead-d24e-46e0-a050-562cfdb864a4/News/Lending-A-Hand

Adult Education Classes Begin Wednesday, September 15th
You know fall is not far off when Adult Education classes kick in. Erlynn Lansing will be teaching every Wednesday at the Stake Center on Pump Road from 10-11:30 am. This year the course of study will be the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History. There will be a nursery. All sisters are invited.

RS Announcements 8.8.2010

We Still Need 2 People to Help with the Cannery this Week.
If you can volunteer at the cannery this Thursday, 8/12 from 6:30 to 9 pm, please contact Lisa Pyron. Individuals are also needed for each Thursday in August: 8/12, 8/19, and 8/26.

Temple Interviews at the Monument Building Sunday, 8/15.
If you need a temple interview from the Stake Presidency, a member will be at our building on Sunday. Please see a member of the bishopric on Sunday to get scheduled.

Relief Society Sisters Singing in Sacrament Meeting
Remember next Sunday, 8/15, the sisters will sing during Sacrament meeting. Be ready to sing Hymn #250 - We Are All Enlisted with gusto -- or Peggy will be disappointed!

Welcome to Audrey, Courteney, Melyn, Lyanna, Melyn, Sandra, Sarah and LisaMarie!
Recently we've had several new sisters move in to our ward:
*Audrey Aldana
*Courteney Shutt Grover
*Melyn Henderson
*Lyanna Lee
*Sandra Crabb-Procka
*Sarah Passey, and
*LisaMarie Touchette
We look forward to getting to know them. Be sure to show them what Virginia hospitality really means!

Uganda Relief - Young Women's Project
Our Young Women are collecting goods for widows and children who have been left homeless in Uganda. They need all types of items: used adult children and infant clothing, toys, household items, books, furniture, kitchenware, sports items, etc. They will come and pick up the items. Just set them on your doorstop on Wednesday, 8/11, marked "Uganda". Contact ugandarelief@gmail.com to schedule a pick-up. All donated goods will be shipped to Uganda by the end of August.

RS Announcements 7.26.10

Funeral Arrangements for Sister Debi Goodman
Sister Debi Goodman passed away this past weekend. The family has announced that the viewing will take place at Bliley's Funeral Home at 8510 Staples Mill Road on Thursday, July 29 from 6 to 8 pm. The service will be held at the Monument Avenue LDS Chapel on Friday, July 30 at 1 pm.

Tiffany Lunde, our Compassionate Service Leader, is coordinating the family meal which will be served at the son's home in Wyndham at approximately 4 pm that afternoon. If you'd like to help, contact Tiffany at twlunde@verizon.net or call 247-0524.

Volunteers Needed for Storehouse Assignment in August
Our assignment is every Thursday night in August (5, 12, 19 and 26) from 6:30 to 9 pm. If you've been wanting to serve but are not available during the day, here's your chance! Contact Lisa Pyron at lisapyron@gmail.com if you're interested. Four adults are needed each Thursday night.

Walton Feed Order - Due August 29th
If you're interested in ordering food storage items from Walton Feed, a group order is being placed on August 29th. See the Walton Feed Order List attached to the email sent with this posting. If you're interested, please contact Helen Poore at pooreblacky@aol.com.

Visiting Teaching for July
Believe it or not, the month is almost over. If you haven't already connected with your sisters, please do so this week in person, by phone or by mail. It makes a difference to know someone cared. And be sure to contact your supervisor and give your report.

RS Announcements 7.18.2010

Volunteers Needed for August Storehouse Assignment
Our ward assignment for August is every Thursday (Aug 5, 12, 19, and 26) from 6:30 PM to 9 PM. So if you've been wanting to help out but can't make a commitment during the day, here's your chance! Four individuals needed each Thursday. Please contact Lisa Pyron at lisapryron@gmail.com if you're interested.

Baptism, Saturday, 7/24 at 11 AM - Monument Building
Courtney Grover is going to be baptized on Saturday. Please come and join us at this special service as she becomes a member of the church.


Remember, Ward Summer Party is this coming Saturday, 7/24.
Be sure to come to this annual event; held at Deep Run Park near Pavilions 4 and 5, it will be good food, fun and games. If your last name starts with A-L, please bring a salad to share. If it's M-Z, bring a dessert. It all starts at 5 pm. Invite friends and neighbors.

Sister Kintu Collecting Items for Uganda
Sister Kintu is gather a variety of items to help individuals in Uganda. She's asking for clothing, toys and other items you may be discarding. She is coordinating a container to be shipped with the items. Please bring your items to her personally or at church. You can reach her at: 658 -5473 or at 1311 Camden Drive.

Please Remember the Kings in Your Prayers
Brother Dan King is in the hospital in intensive care. Please keep him and Margo in your prayers as they go through this difficult time.

Be sure to read our Sister Spotlight below on Amy Ladle. If you haven't done a spotlight before, but would be interested to tell us more about yourself, please contact Olivia Smith at oliviaksmith@comcast.net

Have an enjoyable week and stay cool!

RS Announcements 7.11.10

Relief Society Sisters will be singing in Sacrament Meeting, Sunday, July 25th.
Please join us on the stand -- all sisters from Relief Society and the auxillaries are invited -- to join our beautiful voices together in singing We Are All Enlisted.

Ward Summer Picnic is just two weeks away!
Join the ward in an annual event at Deep Run Park on Saturday, July 24th from 5-7 pm. Meet at the #4 and #5 Pavillions at the back of the park near the soccer fields. Be sure to invite family, friends and neighbors! It will be a great time of good food, games and fun. To supplement the main dish provided by the ward, bring a salad to share if your last name ends in A-L. If your last name ends in M-Z, please bring a dessert to share.

Clear 2 Litter Bottles with Caps Needed for Scouts
Kathi Taylor no longer needs cans, but does need clear 2 litter bottles (with the caps) for the scouts. Please bring to the Relief Society Room by the end of July.

Remember Our Find, Sell or Swap Column
If you have something you would like listed, please email Olivia Smith at oliviaksmith@comcast.net and I will list it for a few weeks in our blog.

RS Announcements 6.27.10

Two Sisters Still Needed this Tuesday, 6/29
We are still in need of two sisters who can help out at the storehouse with our assignment this coming Tuesday. If you're able, please contact Lisa Pyron at lisapyron@gmail.com or by phone at 762-9699.

I'm back from vacation and look forward to seeing you next Sunday. It's been several weeks and I've missed you all! Have a great 4th of July weekend.

RS Announcements 6.6.2010

Sacrament Meeting Without Power But Not Lacking in the Spirit
For all those who attended church at the Monument Building today, they were met with a chapel full of worshippers, no lights and no air conditioning. The building lost power a few minutes before the meeting was to start. But the sacrament service went forward, the piano still worked (thanks Sister Holzbach) and Tish Hefflebower conducted. There was no micrphone but the Bishop's voice carried over the podium. Despite lack of electricity (and microphone) testimonies were shared as members came to the front (or stood in the pew) and spoke from the heart by the Spirit. The remainder of the classses were cancelled.

If You're Planning to Attend the Stake Service Event "Come Tie With Us" This Wednesday please indicate by marking the poll on the blog. If you need nursery services please email Lisa Pyron at LisaPyron@gmail.com. SEE the Save the Date sidebar on the left for more information!

Have a great week!

RS Announcements 5.30.2010

The Relief Society Pool Party is THIS Wednesday!
Be sure to come (whether you plan to swim or not) and socialize at this popular annual event. It starts at 6:30 pm at Erlynn Lansing's home: 8100 Spenceley Drive off River Road. Bring an item for the salad bar, if you can. There will be no nursery.

#28 Cans (empty ones) Are Needed by the Scouts.
Kathi Taylor is collecting the cans. Bring your cleaned cans to the Relief Society room throughout June and July (see needs them by August.

LDS Book Giveaway
Linda Gunn has a few LDS books to give away. They will be put in the Relief Society Room on a first come, first served basis for the next two weeks.

LDS Family Services
The combined RS/Priesthood meeting today discussed the services of LDS Family Services which is located in the same building at the Bishop Storehouse. They can provide help in a number of areas including: counseling and resources, marriage and parenting classes, adiction recovery programs, adoption services, and help for unplanned pregnancies. You can call them directly at 743-0727. You can reach the website via the Provident Living website of the church. A link is found at the side bar under "Helpful Links You Can Use Now!"

Be sure to read the Sister Spotlight of Mollee Kennedy from last week (see below -- or in the archived section).

RS Announcements 5.23.10

Sisters Needed for the Storehouse Assignment
We need 3 sisters each Tuesday in June (June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29) for 1-1/2 hours to help clean the Storehouse. We don't need you to commit to every Tuesday -- whatever you can do would be a great help! Meet at the Storehouse at 10 am. Please email Lisa Pyron if you're interested at Lisapyron@gmail.com


Welcome Esther Church to Newsletter Coordinator
Esther has been called to coordinate and produce the newsletter each month which is created for sisters who are on mail lists or cannot access the blog. We welcome her to this Relief Society calling!


Sign-Up Available for Pool Party Food
Our annual Relief Society Pool Party is Wednesday, June 2nd at Erlynn Lansing's home (8100 Spenceley Place) at 6:30 pm. Bring your suit and swim! Sign-ups are going around for salad bar toppings.


Next Sunday Stake Presidency Member Will be at Our Ward
If you need your temple recommend renewed, please contact Erik Lunde (264-5869) or email at ealunde@verizon.net for an appointment with a member of the bishopric and the stake next Sunday.

RS Announcements May 9, 2010

Canning Event this Saturday
If you're interested in learning how to do some canning at the Cannery, this Saturday at 9 am has been set up for our ward. A few sisters have already signed up. If you're interested in going, please contact Karen Rich at devinandkarenrich@comcast.net


It's Pool Party Time! The Annual Glen Allen Summer Social is June 2nd.
Be sure to reserve this Wednesday date for the pool party at the Lansing home....and remember to bring your swimsuit! More information to come as to what food to bring.


Stake Quilting Day Service Event in June
See the Save the Date section for more info on this upcoming Stake Event.

If You Have a Child in Primary...

and would like to stay "in the know" about all things going on with primary please send your email address to Shannon Garofalo at shannonlee_8@yahoo.com

A Woman of Good Works / Visiting Teaching Workshop

By Lisa Pyron and Karen Rich

Rebekah was a remarkable example of courage and willing service. When Abraham's servent met her at the well and asked for a drink of water, she not only obliged, but also offered water to his ten camels. Watering ten camels using a pitcher is a lot of work! Yet she willingly offered her service! We can emulate Rebekah's example of courage, faith, and good works by serving diligently in our callings as visiting teachers. This includes serving without being asked and without hesitation (why may require some of us to overcome fears). Let us be the ones to say simply "I will go."

At baptism, we covenanted to bear one another's burdens (Mosiah 18:8-9.) We became disciples of Jesus Christ. Because we follow the example and teachings of Jesus Christ, we value this sacred assignment, (visiting teaching) to love, know, serve, understand, teach, and minister in His behalf.

Heavenly Father wants to care for each of his daughters. We need to love as he did and do the things he would do to the sister we visit teach. We can pray for the sister and use the Holy Ghost to receive inspiration on how to teach and minister (serve, love) the sister.

Visiting teaching is a way of life. We should "never suppress a generous thought" (Camilla Kimball). We can know with certainty that our Father in Heaven knows us personally because He sends us to be His hands and heart to those in need. If a sister has a need, Heavenly Father does not pluck out of nowhere sisters to answer an alarm at a home they do not know. He is prepared - He will send sisters who understand their charge as visiting teachers. We need to work together with our companions to find an inspired way to watch over the sisters. Maybe it's one visiting and the other doing something else.

President Hinckley promised, "I honestly believe that visiting teachers will taste the sweet and wonderful feeling which comes of being an instrument in the hands of the Lord...visiting teaching is a very serious responsibility...but it is not a heavy burden -- it just take a little more faith. It is worthy of our very best effort. "

Please take time to watch the following two videos on visiting teaching:

http://www.lds.org/pa/rs/home/rsvideo.html?xml=rsvideo_8776c.xml

This video on YouTube has a variety of "scenarios" of the different kinds of visiting teacher we don't want to be --with a dose of humor!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkG1W0GeF_c

RS Announcements Week of 4.25.10

Last Week to Do Your April Visiting Teaching
If you haven't contacted the sisters that you visit, please do so this week. If schedules don't allow for you to get together in person, please be sure to at least call and visit over the phone so your visiting teaching sister knows that you care!

Fast Sunday Next Week
In addition to Fast Sunday, we'll be holding the Visiting Teaching Conference for ALL sisters during the 3rd hour. All sisters in the auxillaries will have their callings covered by the priesthood and all sisters are invited to the Chapel for this special meeting.

Young Women Camp Fundraiser
Be sure to order your homemade caramels for Mother's Day. The Young Women are doing a fundraiser for Girls Camp. Each bag is $8. Please contact Lisa Mullins at jodymullins1@aol.com or Heidi Maxfield at Heidimaxfield@hotmail.com if you'd like to order. Cut-off date is coming up soon!


Be sure to check out our newest Spotlight Sister below: Heidi Maxfield.

RS Announcements Week of 4.18.10

Ward Relief Society Presidency Released; New Presidency Called
In Sacrament meeting yesterday, the current ward RS presidency was released from their callings: Robin McLean as President, Karen Rich as 1st Counselor and Carol Caddell as 2nd Counselor. Hands were raised in unison thanking these sisters for their dedication and service to our ward and our sisters.

Sustained as the new Relief Society Presidency for the Glen Allen ward was Lisa Pyron as President, Karen Rich as 1st Counselor and Amy Ladle as 2nd Counselor.

On behalf of all the sisters in Relief Society we want to say a big "thank you" to Robin and her counselors for the many hours of dedicated service and expressions of love they shared with the sisters. At the same time we welcome Lisa and Amy to their new positions and join with Karen in a new presidency. We wish them the best and extend our love and prayers that they will be lead by the Spirit in all they do.



Janice Keene Funeral Arrangements

Sister Janice Keene passed away on Saturday, April 17th. Visitation will be Monday, April 19th at Bliley's Funeral Home, 8510 Staples Mill Road from 6 to 8 pm.

Funeral Service will also be at Bliley's, but on Tuesday, April 20th at 10 am. Dedication of the grave will be at Signal Hill Memorial Park, 12360 Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover, VA.

The luncheon will be held at the Monument Building. If you've volunteered to bring food for the family luncheon, please bring it by the building between 11 am and noon. If you need to drop it off before 11 am, please bring it to the home of Lisa Pyron or Robin McLean. Thank you in advance to everyone who has agreed to help.

Glen Allen Young Women Camp Fundraiser
Please look at the post below from last week about the homemade carmels the Young Women are making as a fundraiser and how to order them for Mother's Day.

RS Announcements Week of 4.12.10

Young Women Raising Money for Girls Camp
Once again, the Young Women will be raising money for Girl's Camp by selling Carmels for Mother's Day. A bag is only $8 and will be ready in time for Mother's Day gift giving. They are taking orders now, so contact Lisa Mullins at jodymullins1@aol.com or Heidi Maxfield at heidimaxfield@hotmail.com if you are interested.

Be Sure to Check Out the Save the Date Section
From the book club and the free concert this Thursday to the special Visiting Teaching Conference and Tri-Stake Dance coming up and more, there are plenty of things to do -- so put them on your calendar and let folks you visit teach know about them.

Conference Sessions are Now Available
Be sure to visit http://www.lds.org/ to read, watch of listen to conference sessions that you missed --or that you want to hear again. And while you're at it, comment on this blog posting and let everyone know your favorite talk(s).

And don't forget to read Saturday's posting
April's Presidency Message is now posted and below that is the cutest picture from our newest member, baby Addie Young.

Have a great week!

April Theme: Come Take Your Place as A Woman of Knowledge

By Robin McLean

"Seek ye diligently," said the Lord, "and teach one another words of wisdom; year, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith" (D&C 88:118)

We begin to learn from the moment we are born, and should never stop. Sister Camilla Kimball, wife to President Spencer W. Kimball, set an example of continued learning. She enrolled in one or two college classes each year, even when she was in her seventies. Sister Kimball said, "Learning means keeping the mind open to all kinds of experiences."

Whatever our situation in life, we can seek light and truth for ourselves and others. In "Providing in the Lords Way", we read, "When we have knowledge and wisdom, we are able to discern truth from error and make better choices. We are better able to understand God and our fellowmen, and we have a deeper love for them...To become self-reliant, we should:

*Improve our ability to read, write, and do basic mathematics.
*Study the scriptures and other good books.
*Learn to communicate effectively with others.
*Take advantage of opportunities to gain more knowledge.

To further our study of women of the Old Testmanet, we read of Deborah in the book of Judges. Deborah was chosen by the elders in her tribe to dispense justice beneath her palm tree headquarters in the hill-country of Ephraim, she was a charismatic leader, a judge, a prophetess, called by the Lord to deliver the northern Israelite tribes from Canaanite tyranny.

Although women didn't hold the priesthood and did not have equal authority with the prophets, prophetesses inspired women with strong testimonies called upon by the Lord to perform various tasks - did not seem unusual in ancient Israel. Deborah followed the pattern of other Old Testament women in recognizing and heeding the word of the Lord, and acting accordingly. She acted with honesty, integrity, courage, obedience and wisdom. She judged her people righteously; heard and acted upon what the Lord told her to do; and she accompanied the Israelite army in victory over the Canaanite power.

Deborah had wisdom, which is the proper application of true knowledge. Not all knowledge has the same worth. The most important knowledge for us to have is the saving knowledge of the gospel and of Jesus Christ. Can you ever be truly educated if you can't answer these questions: Where did I come from? Why am I here? Where can I go in the next life? And the most important question...What think ye of Christ? The world cannot teach us these things.

Read about Deborah in the book of Judges: in chapter 4 there is a narrative of the war; in chapter 5, the Sond of Deborah, which is a hymn of praise written after the victory. My favorite erse is Judges 5:7, when the word of the Lord came to deborah, the Old Testament says, "I Deborah arose."

We are told to seek "out of the best books words of wisdom." Such books must include the scriptures. We cannot know God and Jesus without studying about them and then, like Deborah, we will be prepared to arise in knowledge and wisdom to act what we know to be true.

Welcome Adelaide Olivia Young!

We are happy to announce that Jimmy and Katie Young had their baby girl on Sunday, March 28th. Her name is Adelaide Olivia Young and she weight 7 lbs and 14 oz. Everyone is doing well!

Send Katie your best wishes at katieyoung.ky@gmail.com.

RS Announcements 3.28.10

General Conference is Saturday and Easter Sunday

It's time for the Semi-Annual General Conference and the opportunity to hear from our prophet, President Monson and the General Authorities. Be sure to tune in via:

1) In person at the Monument building where satellite feed is available.

2) On Comcast Channel 95 and on Verizon Fios, BYU Channel is 290

3) On the BYU TV channel (if you have Direct TV)

4) or over the Internet

Plan to be spiritually fed!

Regular meetings resume the following Sunday at our Monument Building 4/11.

RS Announcements Week of 3.21.10

This Coming Sunday's Lesson
We return to our regular schedule this coming Sunday, March 28. The Relief Society lesson will be centered on the Conference talk by President Monson entitled: School Thy Feelings, Oh My Brother and will be taught by Amy Ladle. Please take the opportunity to read the talk in advance so you can be better prepared -- and pick up additional spiritual insights.

Visiting Teaching Conference Coming in May
More information to come as to date and place. In the meantime, if you haven't seen your visiting teach-ees for March, make your appointments this week!

RS Announcements Week of 3.14.2010

Hello!

Not too much new going on this week. Please remember that this coming weekend is Stake Conference. If you visit teach a sister who doesn't have access to the internet or doesn't visit the blog, please call her and let her know that our schedule changes slightly this Sunday (and the Saturday night adult session).

Thanks again to everyone who attended the Enrichment meeting last week -- and all the many hands who worked diligently to pull off a great evening!

Have a good week!

RS Announcements Week of 3.7.2010

Enrichment Meeting This Week - Wed. 3/10, 7 PM
Come celebrate Relief Society's Birthday! A nursery will be provided.

Opening Speaker: Tish Heflebower with Finance 101
If you have a credit card debt of $2,000 and pay only the minimum payment each month, with an average interest rate of 14%, how long will it take you to pay it off? Come and find out!

Second -- Choose One of the Following:

One Minute Testimony by Margie Harmon
Have you ever wished you had your thoughts together when that friend ask you what the church believes or what sets your faith apart but you missed the moment? Come learn how to be prepared with your one-minute testimony.

OR

Dry Pack Canning Demo --How hard is it to can wheat? Come find out how easy it is!

We'll finish with a Service Project and Refreshments!
File Folder Game -- can you make a difference in 30 minutes! Come prove that you can.

We need sisters to bring markers, crayons or colored pencils and scissors to help with the service project.


Baby Rowland is Born!
Congratulations to Jaime and Andy Rowland who are parents to a new baby boy: Chase Wells born Thursday, March 4th at 9 lbs, 7 oz.. Everyone is doing well!


Next Sunday, Guest Teacher: Peggy Sculthorpe
Peggy will be teaching from two lessons: #3 and #4 from Gospel Principles. You'll find links to both chapters on the side bar in the Links You Can Use Now section. Be sure to read the lessons and come prepared to class You'll get more out of it if you do!

Please Change Robin's Email Address
If you haven't already done so, please update your address box with a new email address for Robin: it's robinhmclean@gmail.com Please discard the hotmail address. She can no longer access the hotmail address.

Walton Feed Order This Week
If you're interested in participating in this order for food storage items, please contact Helen Poore.

RS Announcements 2.28.2010

What a beautiful day! Let's hope the sun decides to stay around....I still have piles of snow on the north side of my house that haven't melted yet!

The bishopric asks that the sisters become familiar with:
Provident Living website: www.providentliving.org
and all the resources available here.

Thank YOU! to everyone who helped with Molly Tressler's Funeral. The Relief Society Presidency would like to thank everyone for their assistance in the Tressler funeral this past week. Lots of great foot was brought to the family and the luncheon thereafter.

Thank YOU! to the sisters who helped with the Storehouse Assignment. Several sisters gave time to meet our extensive storehouse assignment -- either by helping or providing transportation/or childcare services. Thank you for giving of yourselves so others could benefit...you went beyond the call of duty!

Wed., March 10, 7 pm at Monument: March Enrichment Meeting This evening will be a series of hands-on activites including Family Finance 101, One Minute Testimony, Dry Pack Canning Demo, Service Project and of course, dessert! A nursery will be provided. So come and celebrate the Relief Society's Birthday with your RS Sisters!

Several of our sisters are moving in March! Stacie Orvin, Talia Terry, Amanda Cracroft all moving away from the area for new jobs. We have enjoyed them in the ward and will miss them!!

Great Missionary Opportunity! Saints United Choir Directed by Gladys Knight. Coming on Friday, March 19th, this Grammy-Award winning choir will hold an uplifting fireside at the Bailey's Bridge Stake Center. Two sessions: 5:30 pm and 8:15 pm. This is a missionary opportunity and is a ticket-only event. Tickets are free, but you'll need to bring a non-member or less-active member to attend the event. Members are encouraged to bring friends from all cultures as the music focus is multi-cultural. Contact Bryce Fawcett at bryce.fawcett@gmail.com to sign-up for tickets. This event will attract hundreds so be sure to carpool and come early; while a ticket gets you in the door, it does not guarantee a specific seat location. Missionary referrals come out of this event and will be followed up on with a call, a visit material and DVD's relevant to the event.


Blacks in the Scriptures Fireside with Marvin Perkins.
Friday, March 26, 7 - 9 pm, Pump Road Stake Center. A member of 21 years, Elder Perkins will review the scriptures and dissolvve myths and misunderstanding amongst Latter-day Saints and visitors on race and its place within the scriptures, the Church, and Church history. No tickets required. Open to the public.
Saturday, March 27, Noon- 3pm, Luncheon - Meet Marvin Perkins. Free luncheon. Everyone invited. Held at the Oak Grove Branch building at 2223 Keswick Avenue, Richmond, 23224

Tri-Stake Event This Weekend is Cancelled

Please note that Sherri Dew will be unable to make it to Virginia for the event this weekend, so the Tri-Stake Conference has been cancelled. They will be no Tri-Stake meeting this Saturday, 3/27. Please let the sisters that you visit teach know.

Funeral Arrangements for Molly Tressler

Molly Tressler, daughter of Peggy Tressler, passed away Saturday night. The viewing is being held at the Woody Funeral Home on Parham this Wednesday, February 24, from 6 to 8 pm. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, Febraury 25th at 11 am at the Monument Building Chapel. The dedication of the grave will be following the funeral and is for family only.

Thank you to everyone who has offered to help with food. You will be contacted tonight or tomorrow.

RS Announcements Feb. 21, 2010

Funeral This Week for Molly Tressler
Saturday night Peggy Tressler's daughter, Molly Tressler passed away. Funeral arrangements are being made and will be announced as soon as they become available.

Interested in Carpooling to the Tri-Stake Event?

Parking will be at a premium at this special event. if you're interested in carpooling please contact Robin McLean at 673-9021 or email her at rhmclean@hotmail.com

Combined Priesthood and Relief Society Meeting Next Sunday, 2/28.
We will meet in the chapel and learn more about the three special events occuring in the area to promote greater interest in the Church. The first event will be a special Fireside featuring the Saints United Voices with Gladys Knight on Friday, March 19 at Bailey's Bridge Stake Center. This will be followed by a fireside the following Friday, March 26 at Richmond Stake Center called Blacks in the Scriptures with Marvin Perkins and a concluding luncheon on Saturday, March 28th at the Oak Grove Branch.

Volunteers Needed for Our Final Cannery Assignment
If you can help for a few hours this Wednesday, 2/24, please let Robin McLean know at 673-9021 or email her at rhmclean@hotmail.com


SAVE THE DATE - March 8 Enrichment Meeting, 7 pm
An evening of helpful tips and handful and hands-ons activities. Topics will include:
Family Finances 101, 1 Minute Testimony, Dry Pack Canning Demo, Service Project and Dessert. A nursery will be provided.

Volunteers Needed for the Storehouse

Sisters, we have two more assignments, the biggest one being this Wednesday, 2/17. So if you can't do the morning, we can use help in the afternoon. Ideally we need 8-10 sisters. If you're able to provided baby-sitting services for another sister which would free her up to attend, please consider this a service option! Please call Robin @ 673-9021 or email her at rhmclean@hotmail.com

February Theme: Come Take Your Place as A Woman of Compassion

By Carol Caddell, Education Counselor

Feburary is a month where we give valentines to those we love -- or to those we wish to express interest in. It is often asked "how do you know when someone loves you?" This question was asked of a bishop by someone who was about to enter into a convenant of marriage in the temple. The bishop answered..."What are they willing to sacrifice for you?"

Love is a verb that denotes action and is demonstrated in the story of Ruth. This story beautifully illustrates the conversion of a non-Israelite into the fold of Israel, giving up her former God and former life, to unite with the household of faith in the service of the God of Israel. Ruth, born a Moabite -- Semetic people related to Abraham. They were descendants of Lot and one of his daughters. She marries a son of Naomi and Elimelech, Israelite from Bethlehem, who left because of famine in the land. Their journey took them to the country of Moab. Naomi's other son took Orpah as wife, another Moabite. Then Naomi's husband, Elimeleach, the two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, die leaving Naomi alone and the two daugher-in-laws became widows. Sad with grief, Naomi tries to reason with her two daugheter-in-laws to re-join their families in Moab. Naomi reasons that the women are young, and without children and should remarry. Ruth and Oprah initially resist, even though they love Naomi and don't want her living alone. Naomi continues to reason with them in love. Orpah finally sees the wisdom and returns to her family. Ruth utters those famous words of love and loyalty..."whither though goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge; they people shall be my people, and they God, my God." So it is Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem.

Ruth makes the decision to continue on with her mother-in-law, honoring her life as she now knows, an Israelite woman. President Monson teaches, "Ruth is a model of ideal womanhood." She sensed the grief stricken heart of her mother-in-law who suffered the loss of her husband and two fine sons. Feeling perhaps the very pangs of despair and lonliness that plagued Naomi, Ruth's actions demonstrate the sincerity of her spoken words.

Ruth has undeviating loyalty to Naomi, and a committment to her faith and belief in the God of Israel. She ends up marrying Boaz, and though she is a foreigner and Moabite convert, through her marriage she becomes a great grandmother of David and therefore an ancestor of our Savior Jesus Christ.

We as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints should never feel as "second-class" member. Jesus taught that through Ruth, her decisions to adhere to the principle and ordinances of the Gosepel, be faithful to the very God of Israel, and stay true to what she knows to be true, she is blessed through one of th emost blessed bloodlines of all, the Savior. jesus tuaght while in his mortal state "Thou shall love the Lord thy God with all they heart, and with all they soul, and with all thy mind. This is the greatest commandment and he further teaches the second is like unto it, thou shalt love their neighbor as theyself." Ruth demonstrated this in her life.

The story of Ruth is filled with characters of compassion. Through each of their selfless desires to live their lives in accordance to his laws and be faithful until Him, each are blessed without end. We are shown their blessing into the royal linearge of the Savior, and can recognize ours when we, as did Ruth, live our lives in accordance to His will. May we come take our place as a Woman of Compassion.

Better Late Than Never, I Say!

My apologies for posting late today -- it's been a crazy week of travel where I got caught in weather related delays from last week, didn't get home until Saturday and then spent the rest of the weekend working (thank goodness for the snow-in) and was back on a plane today. Whew~

So I'll be the first to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Debbie Goodman and Shannon Garofalo -- whose birthday was (is) today ----(hey, I still have 1-1/2 hours left of their special day and if you're in California, its almost a whole night!) I hope you had a good day -- and this is excuse to take the whole week as a celebration! At the end of the week Katie Young celebrates her day too!.

We Seriously Need Help at the Storehouse
Sisters, if there's any opportunity to volunteer some time at the storehouse, you are sorely needed. This coming Wednesday, Feb. 10 and the remaining Wednesdays in the month (17th and 24th) we need 8-10 sisters for 2-3 hours. If you can do only one Wednesday, or all of them -- the help is truly appreciated. Please contact Robin McLean at 673-9021 or rhmclean@hotmail.com

RS Announcements Week of 1/24/2010

The Newsletter Has Gone Electronic!
Starting with next week we will no longer publish a hard copy of the monthly newsletter. Instead, you'll find the monthly article and Sister Spotlight on the blog! The announcements and dates are already there, so it seemed redundant to have both. However, a smaller version with the Presidency Message and VT Message is being produced for sisters who have a letter writing route for Visiting Teaching so we can get the spiritual message into these sisters homes. Sara Brockbank will continue to do this. Meanwhile, I will post the Newsletter Message and Spotlights on the blog prior to that Sunday morning.

We will also be printing copies of the blog each week for those sisters who don't have email access. Everyone who does have internet access is encouraged to visit the blog. This not only saves us money, but allows us to share more information, a richer message --and more spotlights! We now don't need to wait to spotlight a sister only 12 months of the year!

Volunteers Needed for the Storehouse Assignment!
Sisters are needed 8 AM Wednesday Feb 3, Feb 10, Feb 17 and/or Feb 24. This involves bagging produce, stocking shelves, and pulling orders. We are asked to have 8-10 people go each Wednesday and stay 2-3 hours. This is a lot more sisters than we normally are asked for so we appreciate your help. If you're interested, please contact Robin McLean 673-9021 or rhmclean@hotmail.com


FREE Job Hunting Skills Workshop
Learn to set carrer goals, select a coach, network, identify resources, research jobs, interview, use power statements, contact and foll0w-up. Saturday, February 13 at the High Council Room at the Richmond Stake Center on Pump Road. 9 to 3:30 pm - attendance is required for the entire 6-1/2 hours. Bring your sack lunch. Call Curt Rowland at 741-6865 to make a reservation (please leave name and phone number.)

Combined Relief Society & Priesthood Meeting Next Sunday, Jan 31.
With this day being the 5th Sunday, we will meet together and the Bishopric will present the lesson.

SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, February 27th -- morning/mid-day
This tri-stake event will be held in Chesterfield at the Bailey's Bridge Stake Center and will feature Sherri Dew, President and CEO of Deseret Book, as the keynote speaker. More information about this special opportunity to come -- save the date now and decide to carpool with sisters and friends.

Please remember to contact your sisters that you visit teach if you haven't already done so this month! Thank you!

RS Announcements - Week of 1/17/2010

New Running Group has been added!
If you're interested in being fit and running with other sisters -- or training for the Monument 10K, then you'll want to call Jessica Rowland who is organizing this group. See the Small Group Section on the sidebar for more info. First gathering starts this week!

Relief Society Temple Trip this Saturday, January 23rd.
If your New Year's Resolution was to attend the temple more often, considering joining the sisters this Saturday for a drive to DC and a temple session. See the Small Group Section on the sidebar for info on how to reach Faye Mullims.

Next week's Relief Society Lesson
is Teaching For Our Times and the Conference Talk which will be discussed is: To Acquire Spiritual Guidance by Elder Richard G. Scott. You can find a link to the article on the right hand sidebar.

RS Announcements - Week of 1/10/2010

WOW -- What a Cold Snap!
Even though we were wrapped in coats and huddled together in the pews, it wasn't all that warm in the Chapel today! A malfunction in the heating system resulted in a less-than comfortable sacrament meeting conditions -- though the talks were great including our very own Tiffany Lunde -- and resulted in the cancellation of the rest of the meetings. Next week, is Ward Conference, so our Stake Leaders will be here and providing the lessons in Sunday School and Relief Society.

Reminder: If you haven't received your RS Manual yet...
Please see Olivia Smith (that's me) on Sunday and get your personalized manual.

This Wednesday -- is our first ever Enrichment Meeting of the Year -- 7 PM.
This special evening will be a spiritual treat as we learn and discuss how to seek and receive divine direction for our lives. Guest speakers include Christy Fiala, Erlynn Lansing and our very own Stake Patriarch, Lynn Whyte. A nursery will be available. Be sure to indicate at the poll to the left if you're planning on coming!

Personal History Class Moves This Month Only to Thursday 1/14, 7:30 pm.
Shannon needed to move the Personal History Class to this week due to illness last week. See the sidebar for her contact info to start attending. You are welcome even if this is your first attempt at Personal History!

RS Announcements Week of 1/3/2010

Welcome to the NEW Glen Allen Relief Society Blog!
I'm happy to announce that we have a new "look" for our weekly announcements -- a new Relief Society Blog. Now instead of waiting to get an email from me each week, or hunt for it in your already over-filled inbox, you can go to: http://www.glenallenrs.blogspot.com/ at any time and find out what's new. I will still send you an email each Sunday telling you that it's been updated...and eventually, as I get better at this, I'll add a functionality so you can be automatically notified when I update it. KUDOS!!! and MANY thanks to Heather Orr (clap,clap,clap) for introducing me to the world of blogging. I can tell already that this is going to be fun! Thank you Heather for sharing your talents!

To see everything -- be sure to scroll up and down -- and read the sidebars where I'll have different items posted and links. Look each week for new items!


NEW 2010 Relief Society Manuals
If you haven't received your new Relief Society Manual for 2010 yet, please see Olivia Smith (that would be me), next Sunday, January 10th. You'll receive a perosnalized manual with reading schedule. Until then, see the link on the sidebar to find the lesson for this Sunday online.


NEW 2010 Theme for Glen Allen Relief Society
Robin McLean introduced our new Relief Society theme for 2010: Come Take Your Place...in Relief Society. Each first Sunday of the month we will review a characteristic of rightous women and learn about a sister in the Old Testament who exemplifies this virtue. We have also planned to make these shorter lessons to leave more time for the bearing of testimonies.

For January, we learned we are Women with Individual Worth and Esther of the Bible teaches us how one person can affect so many. Thru Esther's story, Robin illustrated that no matter the circumstances that befall us, we are still women with a divine heritage and of great worth. Whether we are single or married, divorced or widowed, with children or without...no matter our race or age, we find ourselves at home in Relief Scociety among a worldwide sisterhood of compassionate women striving to live better lives, increase our testimony of our savior, Jesus Christ, and return to live with our Father in Heaven.


First Enrichment Meeting of the Year
Wednesday, January 13th, 7 pm at the Monument Building -- a nursery will be provided. Come to this spiritual feast and learn how to seek and find divine direction in your life. Speakers will be: Christy Fiala, Erylynn Lansing and Patriarch Lynn Whyte.


January Newsletter
Sara has created the January newsletter which will be sent to you separately as a PDF file via email. Whitney Hinckle is our January Spotlight.