Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost (Participation Story)

(It can be helpful to use cut outs of family figures, the Father, the Son, the Holy Ghost, church, and a chair when telling this story. Tell the children names to be used with each one. As you come to the words in parenthesis, point to or hold up that particular cut-out and instruct the children to say its name aloud or follow the hand action you indicate. This will perk up their attention as they listen and learn.)

Soon after (Nancy) was baptized, her (Mother), (Father), and brother (Mark) sat quietly waiting for a special moment. (Nancy) was to be confirmed a member of the (Church) of (Jesus Christ) of Latter-Day Saints. Nancy was called up to the front by a member of the bishopric where she sat in a special (chair). Her (Father) went up with her where he and other priesthood bearers (laid their hands) on (Nancy's) head like this. Everyone in the room closed their eyes and prayed. (Nancy's) (Father) said, "I confirm you a member of the (church) of (Jesus Christ) of Latter-Day Saints and say unto you, 'Receive the (Holy Ghost).'" Then (Nancy's) (Father) gave her a special blessing under the inspiration of the (Holy Ghost). When (Father) finished, (Nancy) had a special smile on her face and a warm feeling inside. She was happy because now she was a member of (Jesus Christ's) (church) on earth and had also been given the gift of a special helper, the (Holy Ghost).

The family was walking home when (Mark) said, "When will I be able to be baptized and have the men lay their (hands on my head) and make me a member of the (church)?"

(Father) said, "You can do this, (Mark), when you are eight years old." (Hold up eight fingers)

"Will I get the gift of the (Holy Ghost), too?" asked (Mark).

"Yes," answered (Father).

"What does the (Holy Ghost) do?" asked (Mark).

(Father) replied, "He helps you to choose the right thing to do and will comfort and protect you. You must learn to listen for the special way he will tell you what is right. The (Holy Ghost) will be your special friend."

(Mark) said, "I will be glad when I am eight (hold up eight fingers) years old so that I can go to the (church) and sit in the special (chair) and have the men who hold the priesthood (lay their hands upon my head) Then I can be as happy as (Nancy) is today."

"Yes," said (Father). "It is a very special day when you are confirmed a member of the (church) and receive the gift of the (Holy Ghost). We will be as proud of you as we are of (Nancy) today."