Trail of Belief: The Journey of the Latter-day Saints
Manage episode 496041784 series 3656744
Pack your curiosity caps and grab your imaginary wagons because this week on Faithfully Explore!, we're journeying west across plains, rivers, and rugged mountains on the Trail of Belief. In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Laura, your trail guide and storyteller, walks us through the incredible history of the Latter-day Saint pioneers, who braved hardship and hope to build a new life of faith in the Salt Lake Valley.
With music, storytelling, soundscapes, and imagination, kids and families will explore:
- The founding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- The story of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon
- What it means to live your faith in action
- The perilous journey west by wagon and handcart
- Pioneer Day celebrations today
- Connections to other sacred journeys in Judaism, Islam, and the Bahá’í Faith
- A miraculous story involving... seagulls?!
This episode is a vibrant, interactive, and respectful look at an important chapter in American religious history told with warmth, humor, and heart. Whether you’re a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or just love learning about different beliefs, you’ll come away inspired.
What’s Inside This Episode?
- Stories: Joseph Smith’s First Vision, the Miracle of the Gulls
- Movement Moment: The Handcart Hustle
- Game Time: Trail Tale or True?
- Friendship Bridge Connections:
- Weekly Challenge: Faith in Action Adventure
This Week’s Belief Backpack Challenge
Faith in Action Adventure
Kids are invited to:
- Pick a belief that matters to them
- Choose one small action that puts that belief into motion
- Use the printable Faith in Action Tracker (available at FaithfullyExplore.com) to reflect and share
Did You Know?
- Some pioneer kids walked over 1,000 miles barefoot!
- July 24 is still celebrated today as Pioneer Day, especially in Utah
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is led by a living prophet, currently Russell M. Nelson
- The Miracle of the Gulls is commemorated with a statue in Salt Lake City
Perfect For:
- Families with children ages 5–12
- Homeschoolers learning about American history or world religions
- Sunday School teachers or interfaith educators
- Curious kids who love big questions and inspiring stories
Companion Printable
Download the Faith in Action Tracker to help kids turn belief into action!
Coming Up Next...
“How the World Began: Creation Stories Around the Globe”
Next time, we’re trading wagons for whirlwinds and diving into stories from around the world about how life began! From turtles and cosmic eggs to gardens and sparks of light, you won’t want to miss this magical journey through time, myth, and meaning.
Stay Connected
Questions or thoughts? Email us: [email protected]
Tag us in your faith-in-action adventures: #FaithfullyExplore
Visit FaithfullyExplore.com for printables, episode guides, and more!
16 episodes