The Stone of Interest: Building Zion Through Shared Passions

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt a disconnect, a sense of longing for deeper connection within your community? It's a feeling familiar to many—a yearning to share not just values, but the very things that light our souls. Ammon at the Waters of Sebus understood this deep need for connection. He didn't force conversion; he offered a shared experience, a glimpse of something beautiful, and drew hearts to the Lord.

We’ve long known that the gathering of Israel isn’t just a geographical relocation; it’s a spiritual alignment, a weaving together of hearts and minds. But how do we actively facilitate that alignment in a world increasingly fractured by division?

The answer, it seems, might be closer than we think. Recently, I had the privilege of discussing with Joel Ward, the stake activities chair for the Long Beach East Stake, and what he and his team are doing is nothing short of remarkable. They’ve unlocked a principle as powerful as Samuel the Lamanite climbing the walls of Jerusalem—a principle of organic gathering through shared interest.

Listen to the full episode to hear Joel and Janet Larson share their experiences. The core idea is simple, yet profound: create spaces where people with shared passions can connect, regardless of their prior involvement in formal religious structures. Whether it’s a yoga class that expands from a ward to a stake, or a community of Scripture Buddies connecting across the nation—these are sparks of Zion, igniting fellowship and drawing hearts closer to God.

This isn't about adding more to the plate of leadership. It's about empowering the saints to take initiative, to be the builders, not the destroyers. It’s about recognizing that genuine connection arises not from obligation, but from shared joy and purpose. Janet's yoga retreat, born from a weekly class, is a testament to the power of these organic connections to foster deep friendship and spiritual growth.

This approach resonates deeply with the spirit of the Five Smooth Stones – each representing a unique talent or passion that, when combined, can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Each interest group, each shared activity, is a stone in the foundation of a stronger, more vibrant community. It’s a rejection of the “bigger, better, more” mentality that often exhausts and isolates. Instead, it embraces the power of small, intentional gatherings fueled by genuine enthusiasm.

Think of the potential! A stake could host groups for hiking, coding, book clubs, crafting, genealogy – the possibilities are as limitless as the interests of the people within it. And as Joel noted, the work is less, not more. The saints themselves are the engines of this gathering.

Outback Jack would remind us of the principle of D&C 4: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, that feasting and good works are laid up for me; and I shall come down and partake of them.” These interest-based groups *are* good works – they are expressions of love and service that directly contribute to the Lord's storehouse. And like the charity flywheel, your engagement—whether leading a group, participating in an activity, or even sharing this message—funds gospel advertising in places like Ghana, extending the invitation to those yet to hear the call.

Let's be those who build, those who gather, those who recognize the revolutionary power of shared passion. Let's claim our church, connect with our neighbors, and contribute to the rising tide of Zion. Where will you place your stone?

Remember to check out the map of churches at GatherIsrael.now to see how you can get involved in your area. And don't forget to support the Missionary Fund – fueling the digital striplings who are carrying the gospel to the ends of the earth.