LDS Tools and Resources for Genealogy on FamilySearch

LDS Tools and Resources for Genealogy on FamilySearch

This guide will help you leverage specific LDS tools and resources within FamilySearch to enhance your genealogical research.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Accessing the FamilySearch Website:

   • Open your web browser and go to FamilySearch.org.

2. Signing In:

   • Click the "Sign In" button located in the top right corner of the page.

   • Enter your LDS Account username and password.

   • Click the "Sign In" button.

3. Navigating to the Family Tree:

   • Once signed in, hover your mouse over the "Family Tree" tab in the top navigation bar.

   • Click on "Tree" from the dropdown menu.

4. Using Temple Information:

   • Find an ancestor in your tree. Click on their name.

   • In the summary card that appears, click "Person". This takes you to their detail page.

   • Scroll down to the "Ordinances" section. This area provides information on temple ordinances completed or needed for this individual.

   • Click on "Temple" to view and manage temple reservations or sharing.

5. Finding Ward and Stake Members:

   • Navigate back to the FamilySearch homepage.

   • In the search box, click "Search".

   • On the search page, click "Records".

   • Under "Search with a Place," you can search by location. While this isn't specifically for finding ward members, you can use it to research records specific to the areas where your ancestors lived, which might correlate with LDS ward records in that area. Note that FamilySearch doesn't directly provide access to current ward or stake directories due to privacy concerns.

6. Accessing Learning Resources:

   • Click the "Help" tab in the top navigation bar.

   • Click on "Learning Center" from the dropdown menu.

   • Use the Learning Center to find tutorials and courses on a variety of genealogical topics, including how to use FamilySearch resources effectively. Many resources are created with LDS members in mind.

7. FamilySearch Blog:

   • Navigate back to the FamilySearch homepage.

   • Scroll to the bottom of the page. Look for a link to the "Blog," often found in the footer under "About".

   • The FamilySearch Blog contains valuable articles and updates about new features, resources, and strategies for genealogical research, often with content particularly relevant to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Remember to respect privacy and adhere to the Community Standards when using FamilySearch.