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For 27 years, the Special Mutual of Pocatello have participated in a truly unique and inspirational activity, sponsored by the LDS Chubbuck 5^th ward youth.  Each Thanksgiving, they gather at the Hawthorne LDS Church building in Chubbuck to enjoy their very own special Thanksgiving Feast followed by a spiritual activity.  With nearly 200 Special Mutual participants expected, the places were set for the evening’s activities, and the kitchen and adjoining rooms were buzzing with volunteers in preparation for dinner.  Turkeys, stuffing, mashed potatoes, corn, rolls, desserts – Every nook and cranny was filled with a delectable treat!  As they stood in line, paired with an eager youth to help them along the way, the building was filled with chatter, singing, high 5’s and eager appetites!  Following dessert and a short program, a short testimony meeting concluded the quiet, cloudless evening.  As the function comes to an end, the Special Mutual participants headed their various directions home being fed both physically and spiritually.

The LDS religion is one that tries to instill upon its youth that service to others is of utmost importance, and this activity is a prime example of what they are teaching them.  As a parent of TWO teenagers that participated, it gives me faith in society and in our future leaders after witnessing the service, the joy, the unconditional love that took place last night.  President Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency says “Our opportunities to give of ourselves are indeed limitless, but they are also perishable. There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved.  As we remember that “when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”

Other wards in the Chubbuck stake alternate years in helping with this activity, but the 5^th ward is the sponsor.  Reed Findlay, one of the 5^th ward young men’s advisers, told me that there was no 25^th year anniversary commemoration of the function, but the 30^th is not too far away!  And when the call comes next year to donate a turkey, or mashed potatoes, or a dessert (or all three), without hesitation…YES!!