“Contents,” New Era, Dec. 2011, inside front cover–1 New Era Contents The Message Christmas at the MTC 2 Elder L. Tom Perry The greatest joy we have is seeking out those in need and sharing the joy of Christmas with them. Thoughtful Gifts 5 Rebekah Atkin Some gifts mean more than those wrapped in ribbons and bows. What Is Mighty Prayer? 6 Kersten Campbell One young woman wanted to find the answer to this question. How I Know The Lord Poured Out Blessings 9 Kim Koung A young convert to the Church chose to serve a mission and found that his family was blessed. The Power of a Friend 10 Melissa Merrill Two young people from Kansas had their lives changed because of their close friends. In Tune Softly Falls the Evening Light 14 Janice Kapp Perry and Orrin G. Hatch Questions & Answers 16 “How can I keep a positive attitude about the future?” Three Great Reasons to Give Thanks 18 John Hilton III and Anthony Sweat Three reasons why being grateful is a good idea. What Did You Get for Christmas? 21 Lauren Meese What one young woman received warmed her and gave her a sense of belonging. A Sure Witness 22 Elder Carl B. Pratt It suddenly became clear that Joseph Smith was a prophet and the Book of Mormon was the word of God. Finding a Message in the Music 24 Elyse Alexandria Holmes Performing in a stake production of Savior of the World had a profound effect on these California teens’ testimonies. Dancing by the Light of a Christmas Tree 28 Amy Jones Dancing alone by the glow of Christmas lights helped a young woman realize her worth. Learning from Nature 29 Mindy Raye Friedman The joy and trust between one young man and his falcon also teaches lessons about life. This Shall Be a Sign unto You 30 Whitney Hinckley Prophecies throughout ancient scriptures testify of the Savior’s birth. Mormonad You Are Never Alone 33 Gospel Classics Lessons from the Master 34 Elder Marvin J. Ashton Let us follow the light of Jesus Christ. To Be Forgiven Is a Gift 36 David Alexander When a young teen broke his brother’s prized glasses, he wondered if he would be forgiven. What’s Up? 38 The Extra Smile 41 They Should Change 42 Francisco Javier Lara Hernández Just exactly who was the one who needed to change attitudes? Instant Messages 44 The precious gift of eternal life; He lives!; the family matters most; Christmas doesn’t end. Meet Brother Joseph 47 Did you know all these things about the Prophet Joseph Smith? From Church Leaders How to Prepare for the Sacrament 48 Elder Dallin H. Oaks The ordinance of the sacrament makes the sacrament meeting the most sacred and important meeting in the Church. Poem Waterfalls in Winter 49 Pat Diane Buckner Photo 49 Justin John Soderquist