Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [CHRISTMAS]

“The Matchless Gift of God’s Divine Son”

December 22 – December 28, 2025

WEEK 52 SUMMARY

The Prophet Joseph Smith declared, “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2011], 49). Over 160 years later, this statement inspired the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to publish “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles” in honor of the 2,000th anniversary of the Savior’s birth (see Russell M. Nelson, “Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 40).

As Latter-day Saints, we rejoice in the blessing of continuing revelation through modern prophets and apostles. We are thankful for their inspired words of counsel, warning, and encouragement. But most of all, we are blessed by their powerful testimonies of Jesus Christ—at Christmastime and throughout the year. These are more than just stirring words of skilled writers or public speakers or insights from scriptural experts. They are the words of God’s chosen, called, and authorized “special witnesses of the name of Christ in all the world” (Doctrine and Covenants 107:23).

OBJECT LESSON 1: "Joy to the World": Shadow Nativity

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:02:08 INTRO

00:14:42 WOMEN IN THE SCRIPTURES

01:33:50 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

• Creative Come Follow Me digital course
• MeckMom.com
• Instagram @meckmomlife
• YouTube

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER: This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [THE ARTICLES OF FAITH & OFFICIAL DECLARATIONS 1 & 2]

“We Believe”

December 8 – December 14, 2025

WEEK 50 SUMMARY

The Articles of Faith articulate foundational beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including the Godhead of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; personal accountability for sins; salvation through Christ's Atonement via faith, repentance, baptism by immersion, and receiving the Holy Ghost; priesthood authority and primitive church organization with prophets and apostles; spiritual gifts like prophecy and healing; the Bible and Book of Mormon as scripture; ongoing revelation; the gathering of Israel, Zion in America, Christ's millennial reign, and earth's paradisiacal renewal; religious freedom; obedience to laws; and pursuing virtues like honesty, chastity, and benevolence. Official Declaration 1 (1890) ended plural marriage under revelation to President Wilford Woodruff to comply with U.S. laws and protect Church operations. Official Declaration 2 (1978) extended priesthood ordination and temple blessings to all worthy males regardless of race, as revealed to President Spencer W. Kimball, affirming divine impartiality and fulfilling prophecies.

SPARK 1: A MIGHTY OAK

SPARK 2: THE BLAME GAME

OBJECT LESSON 1: “We Believe”: Articles of Faith Playing Cards

OBJECT LESSON 2: “Long-Promised Day”: Post-It Notes Snowflakes

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:02:45 INTRO

00:04:58 QUICK GLANCE

00:11:04 SPARK 1

00:20:50 QUESTIONS 1

00:23:38 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:27:23 SPARK 2

00:38:11 QUESTIONS 2

00:42:13 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:46:29 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 137-138]

“The Vision of the Redemption of the Dead”

December 1 – December 7, 2025

WEEK 49 SUMMARY

Doctrine and Covenants 135 and 136 are significant sections that address the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith, and the guidance for the Saints as they prepared to move westward. Section 135 announces the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, highlighting their contributions to the Church and the impact of their deaths. It emphasizes their roles as prophets and the sealing of their testimonies with their blood. Section 136, given through Brigham Young, provides instructions for the organization and conduct of the Saints as they prepared to journey to the Salt Lake Valley. It outlines principles of unity, faith, and obedience, encouraging the Saints to care for one another and maintain their faith during the challenging journey ahead.

SPARK 1: THE HEARTS DESIRE

SPARK 2: FAST GROWING SEEDS

OBJECT LESSON 1: “According to the Desire of their Hearts”: Bottle Flip Challenge

OBJECT LESSON 2: “The Chosen Messengers Went Forth”: Layered Reveal Trick

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:01:25 INTRO

00:04:24 QUICK GLANCE

00:11:54 SPARK 1

00:21:18 QUESTIONS 1

00:23:56 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:27:36 SPARK 2

00:36:50 QUESTIONS 2

00:38:52 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:43:32 WRAP UP

#whitneyhoustonchallenge

Music: I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

From the album/soundtrack: The Bodyguard (Original Soundtrack Album)

Artist: Whitney Houston

Written by: Dolly Parton

Listen here: [link to official YouTube video or Spotify, e.g., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU]

No copyright infringement intended. Used for entertainment purposes.

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 135-136]

He “Has Sealed His Mission and His Works with His Own Blood”

November 24 – November 30, 2025

WEEK 48 SUMMARY

Doctrine and Covenants 135 and 136 are significant sections that address the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith, and the guidance for the Saints as they prepared to move westward. Section 135 announces the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, highlighting their contributions to the Church and the impact of their deaths. It emphasizes their roles as prophets and the sealing of their testimonies with their blood. Section 136, given through Brigham Young, provides instructions for the organization and conduct of the Saints as they prepared to journey to the Salt Lake Valley. It outlines principles of unity, faith, and obedience, encouraging the Saints to care for one another and maintain their faith during the challenging journey ahead.

SPARK 1: A SUMMER’S MORNING

SPARK 2: A PECULIAR PEOPLE

OBJECT LESSON 1: “They Lived for Glory”: Unquenchable Fire Trick

OBJECT LESSON 2: “Marvel Not at These Things”: Pioneer Bandana Puzzle

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:01:20 INTRO

00:04:06 QUICK GLANCE

00:10:10 SPARK 1

00:20:54 QUESTIONS 1

00:22:59 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:28:08 SPARK 2

00:38:37 QUESTIONS 2

00:40:14 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:45:58 WRAP UP

#whitneyhoustonchallenge

Music: I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

From the album/soundtrack: The Bodyguard (Original Soundtrack Album)

Artist: Whitney Houston

Written by: Dolly Parton

Listen here: [link to official YouTube video or Spotify, e.g., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU]

No copyright infringement intended. Used for entertainment purposes.

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 133-134]

“Prepare Ye for the Coming of the Bridegroom”

November 17 – November 23, 2025

WEEK 47 SUMMARY

Doctrine and Covenants 133, often referred to as the "Appendix," emphasizes the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, urging the Saints to prepare by gathering to Zion and spreading the gospel. It highlights the importance of being spiritually ready and the eventual triumph of righteousness. Doctrine and Covenants 134 outlines the Church's stance on government and law, affirming the importance of upholding laws that protect freedom and justice. It emphasizes the need for governments to secure the rights of individuals and the Church's commitment to peace and order. Both sections encourage faithfulness and preparation for the Lord's return.

SPARK 1: DEFINING BABYLON

SPARK 2: A TIME OF THANKSGIVING

OBJECT LESSON 1: “Prepare ye, prepare ye, O my people”: Cranberry Avalanche Game

OBJECT LESSON 2: “Awake and Arise”: The Gathering Pull Shapes

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:02:36 INTRO

00:04:59 QUICK GLANCE

00:09:12 SPARK 1

00:19:00 QUESTIONS 1

00:20:55 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:25:48 SPARK 2

00:36:24 QUESTIONS 2

00:39:30 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:43:32 WRAP UP

#whitneyhoustonchallenge

Music: I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

From the album/soundtrack: The Bodyguard (Original Soundtrack Album)

Artist: Whitney Houston

Written by: Dolly Parton

Listen here: [link to official YouTube video or Spotify, e.g., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU]

No copyright infringement intended. Used for entertainment purposes.

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 129-132]

“I Have Seen Your Sacrifices in Obedience”

November 10 – November 16, 2025

WEEK 46 SUMMARY

Doctrine and Covenants 129-132, received in 1843, are pivotal sections that address key doctrines and practices during a time of significant doctrinal development in the early Church. Section 129 provides guidance on discerning heavenly messengers, emphasizing the physical nature of true angels. Section 130 clarifies the nature of God, affirming that both God the Father and Jesus Christ have tangible bodies, and discusses the eternal nature of knowledge and time. Section 131 introduces the necessity of celestial marriage for exaltation in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom, highlighting the eternal nature of intelligence. Section 132, given amidst the complexities surrounding plural marriage, outlines the new and everlasting covenant of marriage, explaining the doctrinal basis for plural marriage at that time and emphasizing eternal marriage as essential for exaltation and eternal increase. These sections collectively underscore the importance of eternal relationships and obedience to divine laws in the pursuit of exaltation.

SPARK 1: TIPPING THE SCALES

SPARK 2: A SEAT AT THE TABLE

OBJECT LESSON 1: “Let This Suffice”: Second Coming Song Challenge

OBJECT LESSON 2: “From Everlasting to Everlasting”: Apple Seed Boxes

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:01:09 INTRO

00:04:21 QUICK GLANCE

00:10:32 SPARK 1

00:21:37 QUESTIONS 1

00:24:08 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:28:59 SPARK 2

00:39:29 QUESTIONS 2

00:43:52 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:51:03 WRAP UP

Music: I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

From the album/soundtrack: The Bodyguard (Original Soundtrack Album)

Artist: Whitney Houston

Written by: Dolly Parton

Listen here: [link to official YouTube video or Spotify, e.g., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU]

No copyright infringement intended. Used for entertainment purposes.

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 125-128 & VOICES OF THE RESTORATION: BAPTISM FOR OUR ANCESTORS, “A GLORIOUS DOCTRINE]

“A Voice of Gladness for the Living and the Dead”

November 3 – November 9, 2025

WEEK 45 SUMMARY

Sections 125 to 128 of the Doctrine and Covenants cover a range of topics. Section 125 is a revelation given to Joseph Smith concerning the gathering of the Saints in Iowa, directing them to build up the city of Zarahemla. Section 126 is a revelation to Brigham Young, acknowledging his faithful service and instructing him to spend more time with his family. Section 127 and 128 are letters from Joseph Smith regarding baptisms for the dead, emphasizing the importance of record-keeping and the binding power of these ordinances. These sections highlight the importance of gathering, family, and sacred ordinances in the early Church.

SPARK 1: THE SAFETY OF DEEP WATER

SPARK 2: JOY TO THE WORLD

OBJECT LESSON 1: “Deep Water is What I Am Wont to Swim In”: Proved and Strengthened Bottles

OBJECT LESSON 2: “A Voice of Gladness for the Living and the Dead”: 100 Hearts Challenge

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 ANNOUNCEMENT

00:02:47 INTRO

00:05:51 QUICK GLANCE

00:11:47 SPARK 1

00:19:00 QUESTIONS 1

00:21:29 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:25:47 SPARK 2

00:31:59 QUESTIONS 2

00:34:17 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:39:22 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 124 & VOICES OF THE RESTORATION: THE RELIEF SOCIETY]

“A House unto My Name”

October 27 – November 2, 2025

WEEK 44 SUMMARY

Doctrine and Covenants 124 is a revelation given to Joseph Smith in January 1841, instructing the Saints to build a temple and a boarding house called the Nauvoo House in Nauvoo, Illinois. The revelation outlines the importance of these structures for the gathering of the Saints and the performance of sacred ordinances. It also provides guidance on church leadership, appointing specific individuals to various roles, and emphasizes the need for unity and faithfulness among the members. The revelation highlights the blessings that come from obedience and the importance of establishing a strong community centered on gospel principles.

SPARK 1: A WORLDWIDE CHURCH

SPARK 2: NO LESS SERVICEABLE

SPARK 3: A CHRISTMAS MORNING GOD

OBJECT LESSON 1: “Build a House unto My Name”: Nauvoo Temple Symbol Study

OBJECT LESSON 2: “Integrity of His Heart”: Tissue Table Dice Game

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 INTRO

00:02:33 QUICK GLANCE

00:06:59 INSIGHTS 1

00:26:23 QUESTIONS 1

00:19:31 INSIGHTS 2

00:28:36 QUESTIONS 2

00:32:14 INSIGHTS 3

00:42:22 QUESTIONS 3

00:45:16 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:50:06 OBJECT LESSON 2

00:56:31 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Our Mothers Knew It with Maria Eckersley

A Creative Study of Come, Follow Me

D&C [D&C 121-123 & VOICES OF THE RESTORATION: LIBERTY JAIL]

“O God, Where Art Thou?”

October 20 – October 26, 2025

WEEK 43 SUMMARY

=================

Doctrine and Covenants sections 121 to 123 are revelations given to Joseph Smith during his imprisonment in Liberty Jail. In Section 121, Joseph Smith pours out his heart to the Lord, expressing his suffering and pleading for relief, and the Lord responds with comfort, promising that the trials will be for his good and that the righteous will be exalted. Section 122 reassures Joseph that all his experiences, even the most difficult ones, will give him experience and be for his benefit. Section 123 encourages the Saints to document the injustices they have suffered, emphasizing the importance of standing up for truth and righteousness. These sections highlight themes of patience, faith, and the eternal perspective of trials.

SPARK 1: THE GOD WHO WAITS

================

SPARK 2: ITEMIZED UNFAIRNESS

===================================

SPARK 3: A LIFE WELL LIVED

=============================

OBJECT LESSON 1: “But for A Small Moment”: Liberty Jail Luminaries

=============================

OBJECT LESSON 2: “Stand Still … to See the Salvation of God”: Water Bead Experiment

=============================

CHAPTERS

=========

00:00:14 INTRO

00:04:08 QUICK GLANCE

00:09:14 INSIGHTS 1

00:25:27 QUESTIONS 1

00:28:40 INSIGHTS 2

00:39:35 QUESTIONS 2

00:42:20 INSIGHTS 3

00:48:34 QUESTIONS 3

00:51:03 OBJECT LESSON 1

00:54:55 OBJECT LESSON 2

01:00:31 WRAP UP

LINKS

=====

WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.com

ETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmom

INSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlife

PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER

=================================

This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.