Because LDS women are so busy, it's often difficult to put personal spirituality at the top of their to-do list, she said. "Sometimes we are our own worst enemies. Let's simplify," she said, noting many women often invent extra work "that makes us so weary we often come to resent the time we spend fulfilling our callings." The message of a good lesson "comes through spiritual preparation" rather than "staying up all night preparing handouts and elaborate table decorations."

God will bless those who offer him "a heart and a willing mind," despite individual "failings, our weaknesses and our less-than-perfect attitudes," she said. "The Lord asks us to open ourselves to him — holding nothing back."

One woman showed such faith as she made her way back from choices she regretted, allowing repentance to bring her peace despite being diagnosed with a brain tumor, watching her husband lose his job and then losing her home and car. Sister Anne C. Pingree, second counselor in the Relief Society, said her friend found daily renewal amid such trials through her faith in Christ's atonement.

"She submitted her will to the Lord one prayer, one scripture and one act of service at a time."

Mutual sharing of thoughts and feelings brought Sister Pingree and her friend from merely being visiting teaching partners "into sisters and cherished friends." Such connections can help women "enlighten, enliven and enrich the journey of life because we can help each other learn how to put the Lord first in our hearts and in our lives."

Music for the service was provided by women of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, joined by members of the Orchestra at Temple Square, former choir members and their daughters.

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E-mail: carrie@desnews.com