When we read these words at the beginning of Alma chapter 43—"And now I return to an account of the wars between the Nephites and the Lamanites"—it’s natural to wonder why Mormon included these war stories when he had limited space on the plates (see Words of Mormon 1:5). It’s true that we have our share of wars in the latter days, but there is value in his words beyond the descriptions of the strategy and tragedy of war. His words also prepare us for the war in which "we are all enlisted" (Hymns, no. 250), the war we are fighting each day against the forces of evil. This war is very real, and the outcome affects our eternal lives. Like the Nephites, we are "inspired by a better cause," which is "our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our [families]." Alma 43:45; 46:12).
Moroni was a "man whose soul did joy in the liberty and the freedom of his country...a man who did labor exceedingly for the welfare and safety of his people...a man who was firm in the faith of Christ…a man who did glory in ... doing good, in preserving his people, yea, in keeping the commandments of God." (Alma 48:11-13, 16)
Do you have ancestors who have helped preserve your freedoms? What can you learn about your ancestors from the wars in which they have fought? What can you learn about the countries they have defended? What do you know about the history and culture of those countries?
Military Records
Military Records of Your Family's War Veterans "are an excellent source of genealogical information. Many of these military record collections provide excellent clues to other family members who may be related to a soldier, important events and other places where you can find new family history and genealogy clues. In many cases, these records may contain stories about the events of a person’s life that may have been to painful for a soldier to share with others. Military records may be the only place you will ever discover some of these life changing stories."
Exploring Ancestor Military Records
What countries are your ancestors from? Check out the The Family History Guide to see what military record information is available for the following countries:
What do you know about the countries of your ancestors? Learning about your ancestors history and background can help you understand how you became who you are.
Geography, Culture, History
Learn about the culture in the countries of your ancestors. View the Countries page in The Family History Guide. Most countries will have a Geo/Culture/History goal, but some do not. Select a country such as the example of Slovakia above. You can see the last goal, 11, is Geo/Culture/History. Click on it and explore websites and videos about the country or countries of your ancestors. If the Ducksters website is available for your country, it is a great option for kids.
Read more about different heritages and cultures around the world:
Pedigree Pie offers a single, easy-to-read chart for your ancestor locations. Trace your family’s path through history! Another option is to use the FamilySearch fan chart. By using the Birth Country option you can see what countries your ancestors come from.
Match Ancestors Around the World (for children)
Let children enjoy matching ancestors from around the world with this matching game. Show them where your ancestors came from. If children are unfamiliar with this information, you could also have some fun first guessing where they may have come from. If you need some help identifying these countries, you can use the FamilySearch fan chart view using the birth countries option, (For help see Project 1: Goal 5, Choice B, Birth country or Family Tree Views on FamilySearch.)
Present Day in Your Ancestral Homelands
Using tips from the article Where I Come From you can trace your family origins and learn about your ancestral homelands. You will identify the countries that are part of your family ancestry and locate them on a map to help you connect with your ancestors.
The title of liberty inspired the Nephites to keep the commandments of God and defend their faith. What inspires us to do the same? Perhaps your family could create your own title of liberty—a flag or banner with words or images that remind you to keep the commandments of God each day.
Create a Family Crest
Family crests and coats of arms are powerful family symbols passed down through generations. Have fun discussing and making a family crest. Also, see Week 3 for additional ideas on how to make a family crest or coat of arms.
Your Personal History
Write one brief story about your life as you study each Come, Follow Me lesson. By the end of the year, you will have compiled 50 stories to add to your personal history. Save as a story (also consider audio-recording it) and add it to your FamilySearch memories to preserve it. Use your own questions, those from (or inspired by) Come, Follow Me or the #52 Stories Project. See below for ideas:
What characteristics of Moroni would you like to emulate in your life?
What will be the greatest achievement of your life?
How has your life been enriched by your commitment to causes?
