Here is a statement issued by the first presidency of the church in 1974:
“We earnestly call upon members of the Church everywhere to clean up and beautify their homes, surroundings, farms, and places of business.
“Our homes and our buildings are showcases of what we believe. They should be attractive and give every indication of cleanliness, orderliness, and self-esteem.
“‘Let all things be done in order,’ the Lord has counseled us. (D&C 58:55.) His words spoken in the Sermon on the Mount have important meaning today:
“‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ (Matt. 5:16.)
“We suggest that priesthood quorums, Young Adult, and other Church groups organize themselves to assist the elderly, the fatherless, and the needy in improving the appearance of their homes and surroundings and in properly maintaining them.
“Parents and Sunday School and Primary teachers are asked to instruct class members in orderliness, in respecting buildings and property generally, in taking care of their belongings, and in keeping them in their proper places.
“We urge that this improvement begin immediately and that procedures be established for maintaining our homes, buildings, and surroundings so that they always bespeak the high standards of the Church which we embrace.”
I thought this was very true today and for myself. I have noticed that when my yard is clean and well maintained I am more likely to talk with my neighbors and have more missionary opportunities. I have also noticed that I am much more patient when the house is clean and the children are much more likely to play nicely without the aid of computers or electronics. They use their imaginations, build, create and build each others self esteem.
