“Contents,” Ensign, August 2012, 1–3 Contents August 2012 Volume 42 • Number 8 Messages First Presidency Message 4 The Savior’s Call to Serve President Thomas S. Monson Visiting Teaching Message 7 Taking Action in Time of Need Features 10 Thomas S. Monson: Answering the Call of Duty Heidi S. Swinton President Thomas S. Monson considers duty to be “something sacred.” Experiences from his life inspire us to follow his example. 16 Learn Your Duty Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin We are responsible for all our Creator has entrusted to us. 18 Cords of Love Les Whitmore Sometimes the greatest lessons our parents teach are the ones they let us learn on our own. 22 Natural Disasters—We Don’t Have to Be Afraid Elder Stanley G. Ellis The Holy Ghost can provide us comfort and help us prepare for natural disasters. 26 Keeping the Faith in a World of Confusion Bishop Gérald Caussé Five principles to help us keep our faith and testimonies strong. 30 Finding Faith at the Ends of the Earth Michael R. Morris Converts in Ushuaia, Argentina, begin a new life as they embrace the gospel. 34 Decisions That Make a Difference Melissa Merrill Despite living 45 miles from their branch meetinghouse, the Crowthers decided to make the gospel a priority. 40 How Could She Let Him Go? Name withheld When my sister placed her baby for adoption, I learned that the healing power of the Atonement can comfort us in our deepest sorrows. 42 I Thought It Was All Nonsense Umberto Gilardi I went to church to support my wife, but inside I hoped to prove the missionaries wrong. 44 Standing Together for the Cause of Christ Elder Jeffrey R. Holland A call to Christians to stand together in conviction, compassion, and understanding. 50 Treasure in This City Jane Nickerson I had never felt so lonely in my life. What was God’s purpose for us in this place? 54 Finding Power in the Scriptures Holly Van Woerkom Munson Members share how study of the scriptures has strengthened their lives. 58 Forgiveness and Making Up for Losses Name withheld Understanding Christ’s Atonement helped me begin to forgive. 62 That I May Heal You Dean M. Rueckert Repentance brings the healing power of the Atonement into our lives. 66 Celebrating a Day of Service Kathryn H. Olson Members throughout the world contributed to their communities in a day of service. 78 Answering Questions about Our Faith Michael Otterson Five ideas to keep in mind as you answer others’ questions. Departments 8 April Conference Notebook Serving in the Church 15 Serving the One Al VanLeeuwen We are the Savior’s hands when we serve the one—regardless of our calling. What We Believe 52 The Sacrament—Remembering the Savior Taking the sacrament is a weekly opportunity for introspection and rededication. 65 Family Home Evening Ideas 70 Latter-day Saint Voices 74 News of the Church On the Cover Fishers of Men, by Simon Dewey