"This is the true church of Jesus Christ. There is a living prophet, Thomas S. Monson. And there are both true servants and angels to help you along the lighted path," Sister Susan W. Tanner, general president of the Young Women, said as girls "stand as witnesses of Jesus Christ," through making difficult but correct choices in the face of peer pressure, "the Holy Ghost will confirm that testimony."

Those who have been baptized have made a covenant to obey God's commandments, she said, and "as you keep that covenant you will stand as a witness among your peers."

During a recent discussion, Sister Tanner's adult children remembered times when they made such choices, including refusing to participate in athletic competition or to work for an employer on Sunday; to see pornographic movies or magazines; to succumb to vulgar language at work or to drink alcohol.

One remembered fielding questions about the Book of Mormon during a presentation in her English class.

"In these moments, they could have felt alone, but as they stood as witnesses, they felt the companionship and sustaining presence of the Holy Ghost. They also were armed with blessings that come from obedience to God's commandments."

Young women who vow each week to "strengthen home and family" should realize their responsibility to do so not only lies in the future, but "in their homes here and now," as well.

Sister Elaine S. Dalton, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, said young women "must be steadfast and immovable in all times and in all things and in all places," because "as you are faithful and righteous, others will look to you for support and strength."

With a foundation of faith centered in Christ, Latter-day Saints will often stand alone in a crowd among peers, but they can gain confidence "as you pray daily, search for answers in your scriptures and obey the commandments."

When she ran in the Boston Marathon several years ago, Sister Dalton said she realized she had forgotten to make arrangements to locate her husband when she finished the race. As she became worried and discouraged running up Heartbreak Hill, she began to cry.

"I began to pray right there on that marathon route," asking for help and the strength to finish the race. The words of a hymn came into her mind, encouraging her to cross the finish line where she found her husband. "I testify that as you stand as a witness, obey the commandments and press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, you will never be alone."

Second counselor, Sister Mary N. Cook, said a personal testimony of gospel truth will be an anchor for Young Women who face a "challenging world polluted with temptations and trials," allowing them to "rise above the evils of the world and maintain your position of righteousness."