Three-Part Harmony

When Erica and Amy sensed DarLynn was uneasy, they slowed things down. They became closer friends with her during a school band trip, gave her a copy of the Book of Mormon (she read parts during the summer), and invited her to Church activities (which made her more comfortable with the other members). Eventually, Amy and Erica gained the courage to ask DarLynn if she’d like to have missionaries visit her home.

Erica says it wasn’t that easy getting up the nerve to ask DarLynn such an important question. “You have to conquer the fear. We were afraid that if she didn’t accept it, it would hurt us because it means so much to us. I was afraid she would laugh at the lessons or think they were soooo boring.”

But DarLynn said yes. “And everything the missionaries said was so interesting. They really got through to me and made it fun. There was a time in every discussion where I’d almost cry. Then during one discussion the missionaries asked me to read, ponder, and pray. I did that night, and the Spirit was there. It was so cool. I started to cry, and I just knew the Church was true.”

DarLynn’s parents had watched her careful study of Church teachings, and when she asked for their permission to be baptized they were happy to give it.

While there are no rules to follow when talking to a friend about the Church, there is one common mistake many make—going to places or doing things you know are wrong with the idea you will have your friend come to a Church activity next time.

Not too bright, says DarLynn. “When I was in the sixth grade, I wanted to try everything—smoking, drinking, everything. Then I got to know Amy and Erica, and they were strong in the Church and I thought that was really cool. It made me want what they had. We wouldn’t be as close now if they had followed me and had done the things I wanted to do back then.”

And if Erica and Amy had not been examples to DarLynn, they would have missed a great ending. Erica says, “I’ll never forget …” and Amy joins in, “DarLynn’s baptism!”

“It was the best feeling as we watched DarLynn being baptized because we helped her find the truth,” Erica continues. “You could see how happy she was. After she had changed clothes, she came out and said, ‘I’m perfect, and you’re not!’”

“I was kidding,” says DarLynn.

They all laugh again—a trio in perfect harmony.

Perhaps there’s someone in your class or on your team who you think might be interested in the gospel. But how do you bring up the topic of religion without being laughed at?

Unfortunately there’s no magic formula that will allow you to talk to friends about the Church without embarrassment. The fact is, some people will not understand why you feel strongly about the gospel. But then again, you may just find a person who is anxious to hear what you have to say.

Here are some simple things to try:

1. Remember you don’t have to do it alone. It may be easier to invite a friend to an activity if you have another LDS friend with you.

2. Be a real friend first. If you’re not very close to the person, try striking up a friendship. When you feel the time is right, you may begin by talking briefly about your beliefs.

3. Don’t push too fast. Realize that it will take time to interest someone in the church, and it may never happen. But while they may not join the church, chances are good they will remember your example.

4. Before you do anything, pray about it. You’ll need the Lord’s help, and so will your friend.

5. Don’t abandon them as a friend if they tell you they’re not interested. Remember, they’re still good people.