Dear Army of Angels,
It was amazing to see each of you again at Stake Conference. I hope you enjoyed the Spirit there as much as we did. Sister Cathy Garrett was a huge help, and we appreciate her coordinating, organizing, and beautification skills. She truly puts a much-needed woman’s touch that brings the Spirit to the Conference. Thank you, Sister Garrett!
The Year of Gathering Israel has been simply awesome to behold. The missionary work is gaining momentum throughout the Stake, and we now have a sacred duty to take them by the hand, let them know that God loves them individually, and take them to the Temple!
The Coordinating Council is the group of stakes in an area that are presided over by an Area Authority Seventy. In our Coordinating Council, the Area Seventy is Elder Daniel Amato. Under his direction, a new stake was created in the Southwestern section of the Greater Orlando Area called Citrus Ridge, Florida Stake. The Orlando West Stake was also renamed the Winter Garden Stake. The entire Coordinating Council is growing at a rate we’ve never seen before. Truly, President Nelson was prophetic when he stated, “I hope you don’t miss the majesty of this moment!”
As we work out our salvation before the Lord and find out just how much his Atonement means to each of us, his Spirit will fill our souls and permeate all those around us for our good. No, our lives will not be without trial, but through the difficulties, we will have an eternal perspective and a greater capacity to love our neighbor and serve our Lord and Savior with all our heart, might, mind, and strength.
May you see the majesty of this moment in your own lives. I leave his blessings upon you so you will have a personal witness that he hears your prayers, he knows your struggles, and he can make you more than you ever imagined. With our Heavenly Father, nothing is impossible.
President D. Fuller Haring
Throughout my life, many men and women whom I have regarded as great leaders have embraced the power of well-chosen books to refine their thinking and guide their actions. There’s even a time-honored tradition among military officers of maintaining a curated reading list—a “leadership bookshelf”—that offers a window into that leader’s personal philosophies and priorities.
A commitment to lifelong learning is beautifully echoed in scripture. In Doctrine and Covenants 88:118, we are counseled, “yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” President Nelson has taught, “Your mind is precious! It is sacred. Therefore, the education of one's mind is also sacred. Indeed, education is a religious responsibility.”
The books on this list have influenced my own life, leadership style, and thought process to varying degrees. They are a diverse array of books—spanning spiritual insights, business strategies, and personal growth—that have influenced the way I approach everyday challenges and decisions. I don’t necessarily agree with everything each book has to offer, so I will do my best to highlight some of the parts that stood out to me.
Each month, I’ll share several selections from my personal bookshelf. You are welcome to read along and reflect and on the ideas that have shaped my journey. I hope these books offer you a small window into my heart and mind and inspire you on your own path of continuous learning and growth. I look forward to great discussions of good (and not so good) books that have helped shape a little piece of each of us.
All the Light We Cannot See
by Anthony Doerr
Sometimes, I read for relaxation. This was one of those books…although it wasn’t my favorite. It reminded me of a French movie. The French often have movies that are tragic so when you leave the theatre, you think to yourself, “Well, at least my life isn’t that bad!”
The plot was set in World War II France and Germany as viewed through the eyes of a blind girl and a nerdy German boy. The blind girl is ripped from her idyllic existence when the French gave France to the invading German Army during WWII to live in a small coastal town with her eccentric uncle…and then everybody starts dying.
Again, I don’t always enjoy everything I read, and even though I kept turning the pages until I got to the end, I was left feeling empty at the end and couldn’t see any light at all.
Maybe not the review you were looking for, but I thought I’d give you my two cents. Enjoy the read, if you’re into that sort of thing!
Note: If you need information about any of the Wards/Branches/Groups in the Lake Mary Stake, please visit the Wards page: https://www.lakemarystake.org/wards
May 18: Seminary Graduation
June 25-28: Stake Youth Conference
Aug 8-10: Florida YSA Experience
This June, as we celebrate Father’s Day, we recognize and honor the sacred responsibilities borne by those who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. Whether fathers, mentors, or ministering brothers, each priesthood holder plays a vital role in strengthening families and building the Lord’s kingdom.
The General Handbook reminds us that the priesthood is given not to elevate, but to serve — to bless individuals and families with the power and authority of God to do His work. This includes leading with love at home, teaching truth, and providing spiritual protection.
As fathers, grandfathers, and father figures, you model Christlike service. Your prayers, blessings, and quiet acts of devotion often go unseen by the world but are deeply felt in the hearts of your families. Elder Christofferson once taught, “Fathers are fundamental in the divine plan of happiness.” Let us strive this month to emulate the Savior’s example in our homes and communities.
We encourage every priesthood holder to take time this month to:
Be on the Lord's errand to your family and friends.
Attend the temple and bring a family name.
Reach out to someone in your quorum who may need fellowship or support.
Reflect on how your leadership can better reflect the Savior’s love.
Happy Father’s Day to all who lead with faith, humility, and strength.
One way we find JOY is this life is with meaningful service. With hurricane season upon us it is time for our stake to enlist volunteers for Crisis Clean Up. We need you!!
Please consider volunteering as a stake hotline volunteer for Crisis Cleanup. All you need is willingness to serve, internet, and a computer. (FYI Calls can be very emotional.)
Work consists of answering incoming calls from natural disaster victims in the North America Southeast Area and typing in specific information on the Crisis Cleanup website. This is all done on your computer.
The information you enter will be used by relief organizations and Helping Hands work crews to help them reach people in need after a hurricane hits.
The North America Southeast Area and our stake provides training information that you can access at your own pace.
Our stake will only be deployed when the disaster does not affect our area. The typical need is 2-4 weeks post disaster. It is a great way to serve post hurricane especially if you cannot participate on weekend Hurricane Cleanup Service.
Set your own schedule and only take calls when you can between 8am and 8pm Eastern Time on all weekdays.
Church membership is not required to volunteer. Friends and Family outside our stake are welcome to volunteer with us.
If interested we need you to be registered with Crisis Cleanup ASAP.
Please send your email address to Lynn Whitcomb 407-461-2831 or whitcombfamily@gmail.com and an invitation to join Crisis Cleanup will be sent to you. Thank you.
Lynn Whitcomb
Lake Mary Stake Relief Society President
Father’s Day gives us a chance to honor the good men who lead with love and strength. Whether that influence comes from a father, a grandfather, a bishop, or a leader—you’ve likely seen examples of Christlike manhood. If not, know that your Heavenly Father is always present, and He’s placed people in your life to help guide your path.
As young men in the Aaronic Priesthood, you are already part of God’s work. Each act of service, every sacrament you pass, and the way you treat others prepares you to become the man the Lord needs—at home, in the Church, and in the world. That includes preparing now to serve a full-time mission, if possible.
Serving a mission is a powerful way to bless others, grow in your faith, and learn what it means to lead like the Savior. Whether your mission field is across the world or in your own neighborhood, the Lord will use your efforts to do great things.
Try this in June:
Thank a man who has set a good example for you.
Pick one Christlike attribute to work on—like courage, patience, or kindness.
Ask yourself: “How can I prepare now to be ready to serve a mission?”
We believe in you. God trusts you. And your quorum and leaders are here to help every step of the way.
Stake Youth Conference: June 25th - June 28th
Church Ranch
Sign Up Form
General conference is an incredible opportunity that we’ve been given to listen to our Heavenly Fathers’ council through His chosen servants. And what a wonderful general conference we just had last month! Maybe like us you have a favorite speaker, favorite treat, or enjoy sitting in your PJs all weekend long. Did you have a favorite talk? Favorite session? Guess the number of new announced temples correctly?! 😉 We urge you to re-read and study the heaven sent messages, for in them we know you will find answers to questions and guidance for your lives.
Sister Tamara Runia from the General YW presidency gave a talk entitled “Your Repentance Doesn’t Burden Jesus Christ; It Brightens His Joy,” that we loved. She says “ We don’t stay on the covenant path by never making a mistake. We stay on the path by repenting every day. And when we’re repenting, God forgives without shaming us, comparing us to anyone else, or scolding us because this is the same thing we were repenting of last week.” She expressed that our worth and obedience aren’t bound together. Our worth is always “great in the sight of God” and will never change. Obedience absolutely brings great blessings in life, but a mistake or two will not make the Savior stop rooting you on and relentlessly pursuing you. He is joyful when you get on your knees and repent!
We love our amazing Lake Mary Stake YW!!
With love, Stake YW Presidency 💕
Stake Youth Conference: June 25th - June 28th
Church Ranch
Sign Up Form
Seminary may be on pause, but your spiritual growth doesn’t have to be!
Summer brings a change of pace—no early alarms, no classes—but it also brings a powerful opportunity: to strengthen your personal relationship with the Savior on your own time and in your own way.
Just as daily seminary helped you start your mornings with purpose, you can carry that spirit forward with small and simple efforts. President Nelson promised that when we “make time for the Lord,” He will magnify our efforts, guide our decisions, and bring peace to our lives.
Here are a few ways to keep your testimony strong this summer:
Scripture Challenge: Set a goal to read the Book of Mormon, a few chapters of the Doctrine and Covenants, or even just a verse a day. Consistency matters more than length.
Summer Gospel Journal: Record spiritual thoughts, promptings, and answers to prayer. Try writing what you learn from church, Come, Follow Me, or personal study.
Daily Prayer: Start and end each day with sincere prayer. Ask Heavenly Father to guide your summer—and then listen.
Share Your Light: Look for a chance to invite a friend to a youth activity, bear your testimony, or help someone in quiet ways. You are a disciple every day, not just in seminary.
This summer, keep the fire burning. The Savior is with you—whether you’re at home, at the beach, on a hike, or just relaxing. Let Him walk with you.
I love Primary and Primary Songs!
I love the pure and simple way they teach our children a love for their Father in Heaven, a love for the Savior, and how to recognize and feel the presence of the Holy Ghost.
"Sacred music is a powerful tool to help children learn about Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness and the foundational truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As children sing about gospel principles, the Holy Ghost will testify of their truthfulness. The words and music will stay in the children’s minds and hearts throughout their lives."
Come Follow Me Appendix C: For Primary
Singing is one way we can bear testimony and feel the Spirit.
The Primary songs that will reinforce the principles our children are learning in May are:
“Give,’ Said the Little Stream,” Children’s Songbook, 236
Give, then, as Jesus gives; There is something all can give.
“Shine On,” Children’s Songbook, 144
I may not hide my little light; The Lord has told me so. ’Tis given me to keep in sight, That all may see it glow.
Stake Primary Presidency
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Teaching Children the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Ward Time and Location
College Park Ward
12:00 PM
5449 North Dean Road
Orlando, FL 32817
Summer brings sunshine, adventures, and a break from school—but our discipleship is a year-round journey. Sunday School isn’t just about class time; it’s about strengthening our foundation in Jesus Christ, both inside and outside the chapel.
As you travel, rest, or explore this summer, take your testimony with you. The Doctrine and Covenants reminds us to “seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118). That principle doesn’t pause in June.
Here’s how you can stay spiritually sharp this summer:
Stay connected to Come, Follow Me—Use the app, a printed manual, or family discussions to stay engaged with weekly study.
Bring your scriptures to life—When you read something powerful, pause and ask, “How does this help me follow Jesus today?”
Attend Sunday School when you’re in town—Your thoughts and questions bless others. If you’re traveling, consider visiting another ward’s class and seeing how the gospel is taught there.
This summer’s challenge: Choose one gospel question you want to understand better. Then, seek answers through scripture, prayer, and discussion. Write down what you learn. This habit turns casual study into powerful revelation.
Remember, Sunday School is more than a classroom—it’s a place to prepare disciples. And disciples never stop learning.
Summer is a time when many of us focus on family—trips, reunions, or simply enjoying time together. It’s also a perfect time to connect with family beyond the veil.
President Russell M. Nelson reminded us:
“Anytime you do anything that helps anyone—on either side of the veil—take a step toward making covenants with God and receiving their essential baptismal and temple ordinances, you are helping to gather Israel. It is as simple as that.”
—President Russell M. Nelson, “Hope of Israel,” Worldwide Youth Devotional, June 3, 2018
That means that each time you search for an ancestor, submit a name, or attend the temple—you're participating in the most important work on earth.
Here are a few simple ways to act this summer:
Visit the temple with a family name—invite a friend or quorum member.
Explore the FamilySearch app to learn something new about an ancestor.
Help someone else get started on their family history.
Set a goal as a family to complete or update your four-generation chart.
This month’s challenge: Choose one way to help gather Israel—either by learning about an ancestor, preparing a name for the temple, or attending a session.
As you make these small efforts, you’ll feel the Spirit of Elijah. You’ll feel closer to your family. And you’ll draw nearer to the Savior, whose house you serve in.
Ft. Lauderdale Temple
For appointments and Temple information, please visit:
Ft. Lauderdale Temple Website
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Tallahassee Florida Temple
For appointments and Temple information, please visit:
Tallahassee Florida Temple Website
Summer is a season of connection—family gatherings, community events, and new friendships. It's also a prime opportunity to share the joy and peace of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
President Russell M. Nelson emphasized the importance of missionary service:
“Today I reaffirm strongly that the Lord has asked every worthy, able young man to prepare for and serve a mission. For Latter-day Saint young men, missionary service is a priesthood responsibility.”
—President Russell M. Nelson, General Conference, April 2022
For young women, serving a mission is a powerful, yet optional, opportunity. President Nelson acknowledged their contributions, stating, “What you contribute to this work is magnificent!”
Here are ways to engage in missionary work this summer:
Extend Invitations: Invite friends or neighbors to attend a ward activity, devotional, or Sunday service.
Share Online: Post uplifting messages or experiences on social media that reflect your faith.
Connect with Missionaries: Reach out to the full-time missionaries in your area to see how you can assist in their efforts.
Personal Preparation: For those considering full-time missionary service, use this time to study the scriptures, pray for guidance, and discuss your goals with family and Church leaders.
This month’s challenge: Pray daily for opportunities to share the gospel and act on the promptings you receive.
Remember, missionary work isn't confined to a specific time or place. Every act of kindness, every testimony shared, and every invitation extended contributes to the gathering of Israel.
Here's how to get in touch with the full-time missionaries:
Chuluota Ward: (407) 443-6696
Lake Emma Ward: (407) 493-5441
Oviedo Ward: (407) 922-2024
Portuguese Branch: (689) 299-6860
Sanford Ward: (407) 408-3527
Seminola Branch: (407) 406-2303
Tuskawilla Ward: (407) 353-0060
Wekiva Springs Ward: (407) 408-4523
Community Event
Kids of Hope
Look for Boxes in Each Building until July 20, 2025
H.O.P.E Helps for their Back To School Bash
It's that time of the year again to gather school supplies. We're partnering with H.O.P.E Helps for their Back To School Bash and placed collection boxes in the lobbies of every chapel in the Lake Mary Stake. The organization has asked us to focus on gathering hygiene products:
Shampoo/Conditioner
Body wash
Feminine products
Hand sanitizer
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Mouthwash
Deodorant
Walmart Gift Cards
For additional information, see the flyer below.
To find other ways to give, scan the QR code on the flyer.
Boxes will be in each building for collection until Sunday, July 20th.
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A temple recommend is a symbol of your worthiness and readiness to enter the house of the Lord. If your recommend is expired or soon to expire, please schedule an interview with a member of the bishopric and then the stake presidency. Let us prepare to worship and serve in the temple regularly.
Once you have finished your interview with a member of your bishopric, a member of the stake will reach out to you to schedule an interview with a member of the Stake Presidency.
Note: If you need information about any of the Wards/Branches/Groups in the Lake Mary Stake, please visit the Wards page: https://www.lakemarystake.org/wards