Dear Sisters and Elders –
Our missionary apartments should be spiritual safe havens from the world.
The Bible Dictionary explains: “[The temple] is the most holy of any place of worship on the earth. Only the home can compare with the temple in sacredness” (781). Are our apartments sacred places? Do our living quarters maintain a spirit and holiness similar to the temples of the Lord?
By maintaining a sacred, worshipful environment in our apartments, we receive many blessings, including: the presence of the Holy Spirit, more revelation for investigators and ourselves, increased unity with our companions, and protection from the world.
Please find below six suggestions for maintaining a holy environment in our apartments:
- Dedicate the apartment at the beginning of each transfer with a new companion (see MH, 80-81).
- Display pictures, objects, and quotes that invite the Spirit of the Lord. Remove anything that distracts from the Spirit or represents the world. (See MH, 4.)
- Listen to music that will “invite the Spirit, help you focus on the work, and direct your thoughts and feelings to the Savior. Do not listen to music that pulls your thoughts away from the work…” (MH, 25).
- “Love and respect your companions… Pray together frequently… Contention will drive the Spirit away” (MH, 30).
- “Clean your living quarters each preparation day and daily as needed” (MH, 46). Make your bed each day, rinse dishes after every meal, put leftover food in the refrigerator or cupboard, take the trash out when needed, and pick up items on the floor.
- Treat the sacred garment with dignity and respect. “The garment should never be left on the floor” (MH, 23).
In companion study this week, please evaluate the environment in your apartment. Does it invite the Spirit of the Lord? Review the six suggestions above. Discuss additional ways to maintain a holy atmosphere in your apartment. Identify things you are doing well. Take necessary steps for improvement. Develop the divine habit of keeping a spiritual, orderly environment in your living quarters.
As you maintain a sacred, worshipful environment in your apartment, I promise that you will enjoy the presence of the Spirit more strongly and feel a greater sense of your missionary purpose. Moreover, you will develop an important ability that will help you in the future as husbands and wives, and fathers and mothers.
With love and respect,
President Pingree