Latter-day Saints in Idaho index 1 million names – Church News

92-year-old Marilyn Clement began her indexing journey about 15 years ago – after her husband’s death. Clement decided to use the time she had left to help others find out more about their ancestors.

Since then, Clement of the Snake River 2nd Ward has indexed a million names.

“I didn’t do it for recognition. I just enjoy it. “I live alone and it gives me something worthwhile,” Clement said, “but it was a joyful experience.”

President Robert A. Murdock, First Counselor in the Presidency of the Blackfoot Idaho West Stake, wanted to recognize Clement for her accomplishments and presented her with a plaque on Wednesday, Nov. 13.

President Murdock said: “Most of the stake was unaware that she had indexed a million names. There was a huge outcry in the audience. I looked at them and said, ‘Everyone is overwhelmed,'” he said in an article in the East Idaho News.

The crucial role of indexing

From 2000 to 2002, Clement and her late husband had a profound experience while working at a family history library. Touched by her experience, Clement began indexing a few years later; But she was overwhelmed by the new technology.

Not knowing where to start, she took family history and indexing classes at her church building, where instructors helped her understand the process. To those who feel a desire, they provide the guidance they need to succeed. “She didn’t even know how to index, but she soon learned and began to realize what she was doing for hundreds, then thousands, then a million people,” President Murdock added.

Indexing volunteers view a digital image of a record and then enter the names, dates and places listed in that record. This data is then used to create a searchable index that allows people to quickly find records about their ancestors. This process not only helps advance the Lord’s work by reuniting God’s children with their families, but it also “softens people’s hearts” and draws them closer to the Savior.

“Without indexing, a family history wouldn’t be possible,” Clement told Church News. Individual details such as names and dates are added to records such as census forms and birth certificates, serving as a resource for those completing their family histories and making it possible to bring names to the temple and perform ordinances.

The wonders of indexing

“It is a blessing to me,” Clement said as she outlined the many blessings and miracles she has experienced throughout her life, especially while dedicating her time to indexing: a family of seven children, 25 grandchildren and 44 great-grandchildren , who loves and supports her and even the ability to continue driving herself around the city.

Because this experience has strengthened their testimony and relationship with Heavenly Father, she hopes many will begin indexing as it allows others to discover and gather their family.

President Murdock concluded: “I invite everyone to follow her example and serve others. There are now so many ways for older members to get involved. … The church needs online institute leaders, our seniors can also help there. We also have employment centers that need assistance, as well as FamilySearch centers, bishops’ warehouses, girls’ camps, and visitor centers. Full-time missionaries and mission office staff are needed. The family history becomes more and more exciting as the database grows.”