Family traditions are essential to building family unity in today's tumultuous society, said husband and wife speakers at Women's Conference Friday.

Margaret Wilkins and her husband, Academic Vice President Alan Wilkins, addressed women on the subject of how to maintain unity through activities that are wholesome and inclusive.

"It is critical in this day with the centrifugal forces of the world pulling families apart that we bring our families together often and with creativity," Alan Wilkins said.

Family strength can be generated through routine and special family activities, the Wilkins said. In particular, family traditions, work and service activities, wholesome recreational activities, and extended family activities are beneficial.

The Wilkins suggested several traditions their own family observes. For example, every morning at 7:10 a.m. the Wilkins family gathers for scripture study.

The family makes efforts to celebrate Sunday in a special way. They attend church meetings together, eat dinner together and reserve the day for only family activities.

Work and service opportunities are also valuable to strengthening family unity, the Wilkins said. They mentioned examples of families they knew who did unusual acts of service as a family.

One family spent every summer participating in an elaborate church pageant. Another family traveled to Ecuador to help those who are in need.

Wholesome recreational activities contribute to family togetherness, Margaret Wilkins said. Family vacations and activities can strengthen bonds that already exist, but it is important "not to force the bonding," Alan Wilkins said.

When planning activities, the needs of each individual should be met, Alan Wilkins suggested. "And learn to enjoy the journey. Fishing trips are not always about catching fish."

Family bonding can occur before the event, during and after the fun. "Anticipating is fun," Margaret Wilkins said, "but make time to remember."

The Wilkins also discussed the importance of finding a gathering place for extended members of the family. They suggested that each family needs a gatherer, someone to bring the family together and plan the activities.

To help illustrate the joy of attending these larger group family gatherings, the Wilkins displayed a colorful picture of their family clothed in hand made tie dye T-shirts.

"When families are united, and particularly when their unity is focused on the gospel of Jesus Christ, they are the most important influence for good in the world," Alan Wilkins said.



Copyright Brigham Young University 5 May 2003