April 2024 General Conference | Saturday and Sunday Sessions

Sunday Morning Session

Hymn: Awake and Arise (#)

Conducting: President Henry B. Eyring – 2nd Counselor in the 1st Presidency

Hymn: Come, Ye Children of the Lord (#58)

Invocation: Vai Sikahema – General Authority 70

Hymn:

NOTE: President Nelson viewed this session of General Conference from home

Talk: Ronald A. Rasband – Quorum of the 12

Words Matter

Major Themes: Think Celestial; Words Matter;

Notable Stories: Thailand Temple Dedication; Calling home while away on trips.

Scripture References: Alma 31:5; 2 Nephi 32:3; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1

Words matter.
Word represent our beliefs, morals, and perspectives
Sometimes we speak, sometimes we listen
They are the bedrock of how we connect.
They represent our beliefs, morals and perspectives
Words set a tone – For good or bad
Words voice our thoughts and feelings for good and bad
Believing and heeding the word of God will draw us closer to Him
Words can open our minds to truth.
That is why – first and foremost – the Lord’s words matter.
1) The Lord’s words matter
- The Word of God surpasses all other emotions
- We hear Christ in the words of scripture, but do we recognize He is speaking to us?
2) The words of prophets matter
- President Nelson has said wise words which we should heed
- President Nelson has a way with words
  - “Think Celestial” | As we think celestial our faith will increase
  - “Let God Prevail”
  - “Be peacemakers”
  - “Keep on the covenant path “
  - “Gather Israel”
- We make a sacred obligation when we sustain the President and other officers of the Church
- Act upon our prophet’s words.
3.) Our Words Matter
- We need to be careful in what we say and how we say it
- Our words can bring us together or drive a wedge between us.
- Three words we should say often
  - Thank you
  - I am sorry
  - I love you
Feast on the Words of Christ
The words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.
He expects us to speak with the tongue of angels.
Our words on the internet, texting, social media or tweets take on a life of their own. So be careful what you say and how you say it
I promise if we ‘feast upon the words of Christ’ that lead to salvation, our Prophet’s words that guide and encourage us and our own words that speak of who we are and what we hold dear, the powers of heaven will pour down upon us.
As the Apostle John made clear, Jesus Christ Himself is the Word
Words matter.
They are the bedrock of how we connect; they represent our beliefs, morals and perspectives.
Words set a tone and can open our minds to truth.
First and foremost, let the Lord’s words matter.
The Lord’s words come through scriptures, from personal revelation, promptings of the Holy Ghost and answers to prayer.
Believing and heeding the word of God will draw us closer to Him.
Second, the words of prophets matter.
Prophets testify of the divinity of Jesus Christ. They teach His gospel and show His love for all.
President Nelson has a way with words — from “keep on the covenant path” and “gather Israel” to “let God prevail” and “think celestial.”
Third, consider our own words.
Believe me, in our emoji-filled world, our words matter
Three simple phrases can take the sting out of difficulties, lift and reassure others: “Thank you,” “I am sorry” and “I love you.”
I promise that if we ‘feast upon the words of Christ’ that lead to salvation, our Prophet’s words that guide and encourage us, and our own words that speak of who we are and what we hold dear, the powers of heaven will pour down upon us.
First and foremost, the Lord’s words matter
Second, the words of prophets matter
Prophets testify of the divinity of Jesus Christ.
They teach His gospel and show His love.
Third and so very important are our own words.
Believe me, in our emoji-filled world, our words matter

Talk: Susan H. Porter – Primary President

Pray, He Is There

Major Themes: The gift of prayer.

Notable Stories: Granddaughter coming to know we truly love the Lord; saying prayers on ride to school; praying for father to become a member. Sister Porter’s patriarchal blessing; sealing with her family.

Scripture References:

He gives us the gift of prayer
- We can talk to Heavenly Father anytime, anywhere.
1) Pray to know
- Pray and then listen
- You can live with courage
- The best question to ask Heavenly Father is not why, but What?
- Heavenly Father will guide us when we ask Him what we should do and we should know.
2) Pray to grow
- Praying to Heavenly Father helps us to become like him.
- Thorough His spirit your heart can change
- Jonah’s faith grew as he prayed
3) Pray to show
- Pray for help to Show Heavenly Father’s love to others.Help someone sad
- Forgive someone
- Help them to know Heavenly Father and Jesus as you do.
- Heavenly Father does not force anyone to make a choice.
- Don’t give up on praying to Heavenly Father.
Praying everyday will fill you with love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
He can send us answers to our prayers in other ways
Perhaps you are praying for blessings for your family and others you love.
- Don’t give up.
- Heavenly Father will show you what you can do
Pray
- He is there.
Praying every day will fill you with love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
This will help you want to follow Them your whole life

I invite you to pray to know Heavenly Father is there; pray to grow to become like Him and pray to show His love to others
The gift of prayer is a blessing — we can talk to Heavenly Father anytime, anywhere.
First, pray to know.
When you know that Heavenly Father is real and that He loves you, you can live with courage and hope.
Pray, He is there
Speak, He is listening.
Wanting to know why something hard is happening in your life or why you didn’t receive a prayed-for blessing?
Often the best question to ask Heavenly Father is not “why?” but “what?”
Second, pray to grow.
Heavenly Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to show us the way to live and to grow to become more like Him.
Third, pray to show.
You can pray for help to show Heavenly Father’s love to others.
Share with Heavenly Father what is in your heart. As you sincerely ask for His help, you will receive His Spirit to guide you. Praying every day will fill you with love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. This will help you want to follow Them your whole life
I invite you to pray to know Heavenly Father is there, pray to grow to become like Him and pray to show His love to others.
When you know that Heavenly Father is real and that He loves you, you can live with courage and hope.
Pray, He is there
Speak, He is listening.
Share with Heavenly Father what is in your heart. As you sincerely ask for His help, you will receive His Spirit to guide you.
I invite you to pray to know Heavenly Father is there, pray to grow to become like Him and pray to show His love to others.

Hymn: A Child’s Prayer (#)

Talk: Dale G. Renlund – Quorum of the 12

The Powerful, Virtuous Cycle of the Doctrine of Christ

Major Themes: Repentance (get back on the Kayak); The doctrine of Christ; Ministering.

Notable Stories: Kayak

Scripture References: Jacob

“Hubris never ends well”
Keep paddling, maintain momentum and you will be fine
Momentum and forward progress keep you upright
We become vulnerable when we slow down and especially when we stop
Spiritual Momentum is repeatedly and iteratively applying the other aspects of the doctrine of Christ
Momentum involves both speed and direction- in life we need to row towards the Savior to come unto Him
Just as it is not healthy to defer eating all our food until Sunday and then binge our weekly allotment of nutrition, it is not spiritually healthy to restrict our testimony-nourishing behavior to one day in the week
Daily healthy spiritual habits are key

We do not give up
Leverage the power of the sacrament to have the Holy Ghost in our lives
Multiple covenants draw us closer to Christ
They give us access to his power
The source of power is Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father
Making and keeping covenants are a conduit to their power
We become vulnerable when we slow down and especially when we stop
If we maintain spiritual momentum by continually “rowing” toward the Savior, we are safer and more secure because our eternal life depends on our faith in Him
As the Holy Ghost exerts a greater influence in our lives, we progressively and iteratively develop Christlike attributes
Most people that are struggling know that they are struggling
Do not be judgmental
- It is not helpful, nor welcome and it is mostly uninformed
Comparing ourselves to others can lead us to make pernicious errors, especially if we conclude that we are more righteous than those who are struggling.
We are all struggling in our own way
None of us earn salvation, we never can
We are only saved in and through the grace of God
Minister as they allow
The Savior’s job is to heal
- Our job is to love, to love and minister in a way that others are drawn to Christ
None of us earns salvation
We never can
We all need the Savior’s infinite Atonement, not just part of it
Most people who are struggling know that they’re struggling
We should also recognize that to some degree, we are all struggling
As we exercise faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, we are propelled along the covenant path and motivated to help others become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ
Comparing living the gospel of Jesus Christ to kayaking in the ocean, Elder Renlund said building spiritual momentum helps individuals avoid falling when adversarial waves hit
The same size wave that a moving kayak can absorb without tipping can cause a stopped kayak to roll over in the water
Likewise, making efforts to grow spiritually can help an individual avoid spiritually falling when temptations or challenges come into their life
Faith in Jesus Christ must be nourished daily through prayer, scripture study, repentance and following the promptings of the Holy Ghost
Honoring covenants helps individuals create a conduit to receive God’s power in their lives
Help others without judging them for their actions
Everyone is struggling, and no one earns salvation
Everyone needs all of the Savior’s infinite Atonement
It is the Savior’s responsibility to heal
The rest of God’s children have the responsibility to love and minister in ways that help others draw closer to Jesus Christ.
Exercising faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement propels individuals along the covenant path and motivates them to help others to also become faithful disciples of the Savior.
Having a place in Heavenly Father’s kingdom requires faithfully living the doctrine of Christ.
As the Holy Ghost exerts a greater influence in our lives, we progressively and iteratively develop Christlike attributes
The momentum produced by living the doctrine of Christ not only powers the transformation of our divine nature into our eternal destiny, but it also motivates us to help others
Comparing ourselves to others can lead us to make pernicious errors, especially if we conclude that we are more righteous than those who are struggling

Talk: Paul B. Pieper- General Authority 70

There is a Protestant minister named David Ring who has cerebral palsy (like me) and one of his sermons was entitled “Don’t ask why; Ask what”

From one of David Ring’s sermons: “Don’t ask “Why'” Ask “What can I become'” When you ask why, you question God’s authority and become bitter.”

Trust in the Lord

Major Themes: Trust

Notable Stories: Leonid opening his heart to God’s love; Trust exercise;

Scripture References:Proverbs 3:5

Trust is the foundation of all relationships
- A relationship forms only when people are willing to place trust in each other
- It is not a relationship if one person trusts completely, but the other does not
- Once betrayed, we may struggle to trust again, and it might affect our willingness to trust In a perfect Heavenly Father
- If prior loss of trust is keeping you from trusting God, please look for ways to connect with God
- The best way to trust God is simply by trusting Him
  - Turn to Him first when faced with challenges
- The more we learn about God, the easier it will be for us to trust Him
If prior loss of trust is keeping you from trusting God, please follow this example
Sometimes the best way to learn to trust God is simply by trusting Him
In an information-saturated world, there is no shortage of sources promoting their solutions to our challenges
We show our trust in God by turning to Him first ttwhen confronted with life’s challenges
Don’t ask why
- Ask what I want you to learn
Minds and muscles need to be stretched for growth to occur… same it is with spiritual growth
Each time we trust God, he will be there to catch us
Trusting is a choice
God is the master teacher, the complete coach who is always stretching us to help us realize more of our divine potential
Each time we accept and act on an invitation, our trust in God grows.
If we ignore or decline an invitation, our progress stops until we are ready to act on a new invitation

God is focused on our growth and progress
He is the master teacher, the complete coach who is always stretching us to help us realize more of our divine potential
Heavenly Father wants to have a relationship with each of His children, and that relationship is so close and personal that God is willing and able to share all He has
And He created a plan to make that possible
That plan included giving all of His children agency while they were tested by coming to earth.
Heavenly Father knew that His children would not always make the right choices, so He provided a Savior — His Son, Jesus Christ — to atone for the sins of all His children
This allows them to repent — a gift He hopes is used regularly.
God is focused on the growth and progress of His children
As the master teacher and complete coach, He stretches His children to help them realize their divine potential
That means that once someone shows trust in Him once, He will always give another invitation to trust Him
He will not stop providing opportunities for growth
Individuals can choose to trust God every day
Sometimes the best way to learn to trust God is simply by trusting Him
God invites us to grow by trusting His spiritual tutoring through soul-stretching experiences
Each time we accept and act on an invitation, our trust in God grows
If we ignore or decline an invitation, our progress stops until we are ready to act on a new invitation

Hymn: Israel Will Shortly Be Free (#)

Talk: Patrick Kearon – Quorum of the 12

God’s Intent is to Bring You Home

Major Themes: God’s plan of mercy;

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

Behind every new apostle is an astonished mother in law
God is in relentless pursuit of you
He wants all of His children to choose to return to Him, and He employs every possible measure to bring you back
God’s fabulous plan is designed to bring us home, not hold us back
God is in relentless pursuit of you
He wants all of His children to choose to return to Him, and He employs every possible measure to bring you back
Christ great atoning gift removes every road block that would separate us from our eternal home
The intent of the great plan is happiness, right now and in the eternities
The intent of the great plan is redemption, right now and in the eternities
The intent of the great plan is salvation, right now and in the eternities
The intent of the Father’s plan of salvation is in fact your salvation in the celestial kingdom of glory as you receive the testimony of Jesus and offer your whole soul to Him
It is not to keep you out
The intent of the Father’s plan of redemption is in fact your redemption, your being rescued through the sufferings and death of Jesus Christ, freed from the captivity of sin and death
It is not to leave you as you are

The intent of the Father’s great plan of happiness is your happiness, right here, right now, and in the eternities

It is not to prevent your happiness and cause you instead worry and fear

Everything about the Father’s plan for His beloved children is designed to bring everyone home
Christ’s great atoning gift removes every roadblock of physical and spiritual death that would separate us from our eternal home
The Father’s plan is not about roadblocks
Are there things we need to do, commandments to keep, aspects of our natures to change?
- Yes
But with His grace, those are within our reach, not beyond our grasp
God’s plan is not about roadblocks
- Never was, never will be
- God’s design, his wish, his intent is to heal, bring us peace and bring us home
The Father’s beautiful plan is designed to bring His children home, not to keep them out
God is in relentless pursuit of you
The purpose of this earth was to give an opportunity to learn, grow, make mistakes, repent and return home
Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice removes every roadblock that would separate people from their eternal home
Everything about the Father’s plan for His beloved children is designed to bring everyone home.
The intent of the Father’s plan of happiness, redemption, mercy and salvation is to provide all of those things to His children
One of Jesus’ most consistent invitations was to change and repent and come unto Him
God wants for us a radical reorientation of our selfish and prideful impulses, the eviction of the natural man, for us to “go, and sin no more.”
The Savior goes in search of the lost sheep until He finds them. He does not put up roadblocks, He removes them
Are there things we need to do, commandments to keep, aspects of our natures to change?
- Yes
But with His grace, those are within our reach, not beyond our grasp
God is in relentless pursuit of you
He wants all of His children to choose to return to Him, and He employs every possible measure to bring you back
Everything about the Father’s plan for His beloved children is designed to bring everyone home
The intent of the Father’s great plan of happiness is your happiness, right here, right now, and in the eternities
It is not to prevent your happiness and cause you instead worry and fear

Talk: Brian K. Taylor – General Authority 70

Swallowed Up in the Joy of Christ

Major Themes: Trust in God’s divine purposes

Notable Stories: son lost in fire

Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 12:7–10; John 13:35; D&C 121:; Matthew 11:28–30;

God, who sees the end from the beginning, reassures, ‘thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment,’ and shall be ‘consecrated for thy gain
Coming to trust in God’s divine purposes breathes hope into weary souls and kindles determination in seasons of anguish and heartache
Stronger faith comes by putting Christ first
Brighter hope comes by envisioning our eternal destiny
Greater power comes by focusing on joy
Without God, the trials in our lives can pull us down into the darkness of despair
With God, these same trials can help us grow and become full of His light
Three invitations to greater happiness
- 1. Stronger faith comes by putting Jesus Christ first
- 2. Brighter hope comes from envisioning our eternal destiny
- 3. God’s power comes by focusing on joy
When you bring the Savior’s relief to others, you bring it to yourself
Why do some receive their yearned-for miracles quickly while others patiently endure and wait upon the Lord?
Every disciple of Christ must face life’s different trials as part of mortality. In the process, they learn to trust in God’s divine purposes, which provide hope and kindle determination to carry on
Life’s trials “prove us.”
- Even the Savior “learned obedience by” and was made “perfect through sufferings.”
Coming to trust in God’s divine purposes breathes hope into weary souls and kindles determination in seasons of anguish and heartache.”
To avoid discontent and find peace, hope and joy in the midst of life’s challenges, consider three principles
- 1. Stronger faith comes by putting Jesus Christ first
- 2. Brighter hope comes by envisioning our eternal destiny
- 3. Greater power comes by focusing on joy
When Latter-day Saints feel overwhelmed by life’s tribulations, they can remember these principles and the Lord’s promise in the scriptures that we “should suffer no matter of afflictions, save it be swallowed up, (consumed, devoured and engulfed) in the joy of Christ.”
In the scriptures, the Lord promises to ease burdens, “that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.”
The plan of salvation is the covenant path that leads us back to God
Coming to trust in God’s divine purposes breathes hope into weary souls and kindles determination in seasons of anguish and heartache
Life’s trials “prove us”
- Even the Savior “learned obedience by,” and was made “perfect through sufferings.”
With joyful reverence, I witness our Savior lives and His promises are sure, especially for you who are troubled.

Hymn: His Eye Is On the Sparrow (#)

Talk: Dallin H. Oaks – 1st Counselor in the 1st Presidency

(Title)

Major Themes: Temples; covenants

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

Personal commitments are essential to the regulation of our individual lives and to the functioning of society
A covenant is a commitment to fulfill certain responsibilities
An agreement is a commitment to fulfill certain responsibilities
We know that we give up individual freedoms to learn to live in community
These principles are called commitments or agreements
Covenants are vital in the restored church
We do not know the full content of the angel Moroni’s instructions to the prophet Joseph Smith
Power of being bound to Christ gave pioneers the strength to make the challenging journey across the plains.
A covenant is a commitment to fulfill certain responsibilities
Because covenants do not take a day off, to remove one’s garments can be understood as a disclaimer of the covenant responsibilities and blessings to which they relate
Covenants are inherent in each of the ordinances of salvation and exaltation this restored Church administers
The endowment ceremonies in the Nauvoo Temple were administered just before our early pioneers were expelled to begin their historic trek to the remote mountains in the West
Personal commitments are essential to the regulation of our individual lives and to the functioning of society
The covenant path is all about our relationship with God
Things that make up our covenant
- 1.) Commandments
- 2.) Baptism
- 3.) Sacrament
- 4.) Temple
- 5.) Garments
All strengthening reminders of what we’ve promised to become
A covenant is a commitment to fulfill personal responsibilities
Hebrews refers to Jesus as the mediator of the new covenant
The covenant path that leads us back to God
See the end from the beginning.
Keep your covenants and wear your garments

Sunday Afternoon Session

Conducting: Quentin L. Cook – Quorum of the 12

Hymn: Come Rejoice (#)

Invocation: Carlos G. Revillo – General Authority 70

Talk: D. Todd Christofferson – Quorum of the 12

The Testimony of Jesus

Major Themes: Kingdoms of Glory;

Notable Stories: Father being told not to prepare the sacrament because his daughter has an issue of blood (John H. Groberg);

Scripture References: D&C 76:; Alma 34:33;

God’s plan of redemption constitutes a universal opportunity for all His children, whenever and wherever they may have lived on the earth
What is the testimony of Jesus?
- It is the witness of the Holy Spirit that He is the divine Son of God, the Messiah and Redeemer.
Our Father’s hope is that we will choose – and through the grace of His Son qualify for – the highest and most glorious of these kingdoms – the celestial – where we may enjoy eternal life as joint-heirs with Christ
God’s plan of redemption constitutes a universal opportunity for all His children, whenever and wherever they may have lived on the earth
The inheritors of the celestial kingdom receive the testimony of Jesus in the fullest sense by being baptized, receiving the Holy Ghost and overcoming by faith
Being valiant in the testimony of Jesus surely includes nurturing and strengthening that testimony
True disciples do not ignore the seemingly small things that sustain and strengthen their testimony of Jesus
One aspect of being valiant in the testimony of Jesus is to heed His messengers.
- God does not force us into the better path, the covenant path, but He instructs His prophets to make us fully aware of the consequences of our choices
Being valiant in the testimony of Jesus means encouraging others – by word and example – to likewise be valiant, especially those of our own families
Being Valiant
- Nurturing and strengthening testimony.
- Daily experiences worshiping the lord and studying the gospel.
- Let God prevail in your life
- Public and open about one’s witness.
- Heed his messages: God does not force us to his covenant path, but we are made aware of consequences.
- Encourage others by words and examples.
  - Small equivocation in parents can lead to large deviations in their children.
Those in the celestial kingdom are those who accepted the testimony of the Savior
This is the church of Jesus Christ
- Not the Bishops church!!!
Not being valiant in the witness of the Savior suggests a degree of apathy or casualness—being ‘lukewarm’— as opposed to the people of Ammon in the Book of Mormon, for example, who were ‘distinguished for their zeal towards God
Begin your pursuit of personal holiness
Yield hearts to God and be spiritually reborn through gave that we seek.
Act now to secure your place.
Do not procrastinate the day of your repentance.
- Do not be offended by the strictness of the word.
- Do the things which Jesus shall teach and command.
Jesus is our essential Redeemer
When you choose slackness you choose it not only for yourself, but for later generations
Do the things which Jesus will teach and command you.
It is this mighty change of heart – yielding our hearts to God and being spiritually reborn through the grace of the Savior – that we seek
My invitation is to act now to secure your place as one who is valiant in the testimony of Jesus
As repentance may be needed, ‘do not procrastinate the day of your repentance
Our Father wants all His children who will to enjoy eternal life with Him in His celestial kingdom
Jesus suffered, died and was resurrected to make that possible
According to revelation, in Doctrine and Covenants 76, the distinguishing characteristic for the inhabitants of each kingdom of glory — celestial, terrestrial and telestial — is how they relate to “the testimony of Jesus,” ranging from wholehearted devotion to not being valiant to outright rejection.
The testimony of Jesus is “the witness of the Holy Spirit that He is the divine Son of God, the Messiah and Redeemer.”
For the inheritors of the celestial kingdom, this testimony is manifest in what they are and what they are becoming, as their priorities and choices are governed by the principles and truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Being valiant in the testimony of Jesus includes nurturing and strengthening that testimony; being open and public about one’s witness; heeding His messengers; pursuing personal holiness; and encouraging others to be valiant, especially one’s family members.
My invitation is to act now to secure your place as one who is valiant in the testimony of Jesus.
As repentance may be needed, ‘do not procrastinate the day of your repentance’ (Alma 34:33).
Our Father wants all His children who will to enjoy eternal life with Him in His celestial kingdom. Jesus suffered, died and was resurrected to make that possible.
Our Father’s hope is that we will choose — and, through the grace of His Son, qualify for — the highest and most glorious of these kingdoms, the celestial, where we may enjoy eternal life as joint-heirs with Christ.
Being valiant in the testimony of Jesus means encouraging others, by word and example, to likewise be valiant, especially those of our own families.
My invitation is to act now to secure your place as one who is valiant in the testimony of Jesus.

Talk: Taylor G. Godoy – General Authority 70

Call, Don’t Fall

Major Themes: Prayer

Notable Stories: Call don’t fall; Getting a marriage license; given a puppy o

Scripture References: Matthew 7:7–9, Are you left your room this morning.

Imagine the feelings of Heavenly Father when in each prayer we make a supplication in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ
What power and tenderness, I believe, are displayed when we do so
Don’t be disappointed if your call isn’t answered
Prayer (a call) to our Heavenly Father will avail His power in our lives to prevent us from falling spiritually
Calling is a faith in action
Imagine the feelings of Heavenly Father when in each prayer we make a supplication in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ
What power and tenderness, I believe, are displayed when we do so
Our prayers are always heard
Steps to call but not fall.
- 1.) Always think of the Lord first
- 2.) Call don’t fall
- 3.) Do all that you can
- 4.) Humble yourself
- 5.) Don’t stop.
- 6.) Keep moving forward.
As we pray, we can feel the embrace of our Heavenly Father, who sent his Only Begotten Son to relieve our burdens, because if we call out to God, I testify we will not fall
In a hospital room hangs the phrase “Call, don’t fall,” meaning a patient should prevent injury that might increase existing pain.
In a spiritual sense, “calling” is adopting an attitude of prayer, knowing that a loving and merciful Heavenly Father will hear
Imagine the feelings of Heavenly Father when in each prayer we make a supplication in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ
What power and tenderness, I believe, are displayed when we do so
Everyone will have experiences where “calling” is the answer to “not fall.”
Praying shows hope, but one must also take action
Calling is a matter of faith and action — faith to recognize that we have a Heavenly Father who answers our prayers according to His infinite wisdom, and then action consistent with what we asked for
Prayers are always heard
As we pray, we can feel the embrace of our Heavenly Father, who sent his Only Begotten Son to relieve our burdens, because if we call out to God, I testify we will not fall
God hears our prayers and answers them in a personalized way
Imagine the feelings of Heavenly Father when in each prayer we make a supplication in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ. What power and tenderness, I believe, are displayed when we do so
Praying, ‘calling,’ can be a sign of our hope; but taking action after praying is a sign that our faith is real, faith that is tested in moments of pain, fear or disappointment

Hymn: Softly and Tenderly

Talk: Gary E. Stevenson – Quorum of the 12

I had never considered the two great commandments as towers. Fascinating.

Bridging the Two Great Commandments

Major Themes:

Notable Stories: Fascination with bridges;

Scripture References:Matthew 22:38–40;

The great two commandments (love God, love thy neighbor) support the remaining commandments and laws we are given
Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, might
- Centers on your heart
- Love is measured in small measured deeds.
- To love the Lord centers first on your heart – your very nature
- The Lord asks that you love with all your soul – your entire consecrated being – and to love with all your mind – your intelligence and intellect
- Love for God is not limited or finite
- It is infinite and eternal
- Loving the Lord leads to eternal happiness
Love thy neighbor as thyself.
- Love of the Lord is not complete if we neglect our neighbors
- This outward love includes all of God’s children without regard to gender, social class, race, sexuality, income, age or ethnicity
- We seek out those who are hurt and broken, the marginalized, for “all are alike unto God.”
- There is an important interdependency between loving the Lord and loving one another
We cannot truly live the first great commandment if we do not follow the second great commandment
Our ability to follow Jesus Christ depends on our strength and power to live the first and second commandments with balance, and equal devotion to both
Some are so focused on keeping the commandments that they show little tolerance of those they see as less righteous.
- Alternatively, there are those who emphasize the importance of loving others without acknowledgment that we are all accountable to God.
- Either of these imbalances could cause your spiritual bridge to tip or even fall.
So the question for each of us is, how do we build our own bridge of faith and devotion — erecting tall bridge towers of both loving God and loving our neighbors?
- Well, we just start
- No one is too young or too old to begin
We build our personal spiritual bridge with hearts and minds devoted to Heavenly Father and His Only Begotten Son as well as to our brothers and sisters with whom we work, play and live
Jesus’ two great commandments, to “love the Lord” and “love your neighbor,” are like the two towers — or “engineering genius” — of a bridge
Loving the Lord centers on a person’s heart, soul and mind, and is measured in acts of obedience
Loving your neighbor means loving all of God’s children regardless of gender, race or other differences
Just as bridge towers depend on each other, so do God’s two great laws
A person’s ability to follow Jesus Christ depends upon their power to live both laws with equal devotion
However, some are so focused on keeping commandments that they show little tolerance for those who they see as less righteous
Conversely, some emphasize the importance of loving others without acknowledging that all are accountable to God
Either imbalance can make a spiritual bridge tip over.
So … how do we build our own bridge of faith and devotion — erecting tall bridge towers of both loving God and loving our neighbors?
Well, we just start
It might consist of a few realistic goals to understand the Lord’s gospel more or to vow to judge others less
No one is too young or too old to begin.
The Lord asks that you love with all your soul — your entire consecrated being — and finally, to love with all your mind — your intelligence and intellect.
Love of the Lord is not complete if we neglect our neighbors.”
So the question for each of us is this: How do we build our own bridge of faith and devotion — erecting tall bridge towers of both loving God and loving our neighbors?’
Well, we just start.

Talk: Mathias Held – General Authority 70

Opposition in All Things

Major Themes:

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

Life is all about making choices.
Our Father in Heaven gave us the divine gift of agency precisely so that we could learn from our choices
We can always choose to receive comfort through the divine process of repentance, make wrong things right again, and in doing so, learn some life-changing lessons
Life is all about making choices
Our Father in Heaven gave us the divine gift of agency precisely so that we could learn from our choices – from the right ones and also from the wrong ones
We correct our wrong choices when we repent
This is where growth happens
Remember we are agents, not subjects
There must be an opposition in all things
Adjust, learn, seek, choose, are all action verbs
We are agents and not objects
Let us never forget that Jesus promised to take upon Him the pains and sicknesses of His people, that He may succor or help us as we turn to Him
We can always choose to receive comfort through the divine process of repentance, make wrong things right again, and in doing so, learn some life-changing lessons
Feeling hungry at times helps us to be especially grateful when we do have enough to eat again
We would not be able to identify truth unless we had also seen lies here and there
We can choose to build our foundation on the rock that is Jesus Christ, so that when the whirlwind comes “it shall have no power over [us].”
Where there is sunshine there is also shadows
Choose to have faith and trust in God
Choose to receive comfort through repentance
Choose to react with a positive attitude to the hard things in life
Look unto me in every thought, doubt not, fear not.
Our challenges do not define us
- Our reaction to them do
We can seek to learn from the experience and ask for our Lord’s help and support, or we can think that we are on our own in this trial and we must suffer alone.
Jesus Christ’s infinite sacrifice is the greatest example of pain and suffering ever seen, but it also brought the blessings of His atonement to all of God’s children
Jesus Christ lives and stands there at every moment waiting for us to choose to call upon Him to provide succor, strength, and salvation
Consciously shift your focus and elevate your thoughts to the positive aspects of challenges, because they are always undoubtedly there too
Never forget to be grateful
Choose to believe
Choose to have faith in Jesus Christ
Choose to always trust God
Choose to “think celestial.”
We can rest assured that our difficulties, sorrows, afflictions and pains do not define us
Rather it is how we go about them that will help us grow and draw closer to God
It is our attitudes and choices that define us much better than our challenges
Consciously shift your focus and elevate your thoughts to the positive aspects of challenges, because they are always undoubtedly there too
Heavenly Father gave each person agency so they could learn from making choices. Sometimes people struggle due to their own choices, and sometimes they struggle because of circumstances beyond their control
Either way, the scriptures teach that there is opposition in all things
And although individuals can’t always choose their circumstances, they can choose how they react
We can seek to learn from the experience and ask for our Lord’s help and support, or we can think that we are on our own in this trial and that we must suffer it alone. We can ‘adjust our sails’ to the new reality, or we can decide not to change anything. In the darkness of night, we can turn on our lights; in the cold of winter, we choose to wear warm clothes; in seasons of sickness, we can seek medical and spiritual help
Individuals can trust that their difficulties, sorrows, afflictions and pains don’t define them
Rather, how they respond to those trials will help them grow and draw closer to God
It is our attitudes and choices that define us much better than our challenges
Our Father in Heaven gave us the divine gift of agency precisely so that we could learn from our choices — from the right ones and also from the wrong ones
In the darkness of night, we can turn on our lights; in the cold of winter, we choose to wear warm clothes; in seasons of sickness, we can seek medical and spiritual help. We choose how to react to these circumstances
Let us constantly make a very conscious effort to see both sides of every coin allotted to us in our lives

] Hymn: How Firm a Foundation (#85)

Talk: Neal L. Andersen – Quorum of the 12

Temples, Houses of the Lord Dotting the Earth

Major Themes: Temple building; Family history work;

Notable Stories:Performing an initiatory, endowment and sealing for the same person literally one day apart;

Scripture References: D&C 109:;

Across the world there is a growing feeling drawing us to the house of the Lord
Amid the turmoil and temptations of the world, He has promised to strengthen and bless His covenant saints
In The Lord’s house, we are literally endowed with spiritual power, protected and come to fully understand who we are
We are armed with the power of God
The temple is literally the House of the Lord
The youth of this Church are incredible
In a difficult world, they take upon themselves the name of Christ
As we are faithful we are blessed
Through the power of the Holy Ghost, we are filled with peace, joy and unspeakable hope.
Let us regularly find more time to worship in the house of the Lord.
Most of our experiences in the House of the Lord bring joyful peace and quiet revelation, more than dramatic intervention, but be assured – angels do have charge over us.
Miracles happen in the Temple daily
Regularly performing ordinances for our ancestors in the temple brings a sweet and sure confirmation that life continues beyond the veil
If we are able and have not already increased our attendance at the temple, let us regularly find more time to worship in the house of the Lord
Across the world — where houses of the Lord are “coming closer” to Latter-day Saints — “there is a growing feeling drawing us to the house of the Lord.”
Amid the turmoil and temptations of the world, the Lord has promised to strengthen and bless His covenant saints
Those who come worthily and prayerfully to the Lord’s house “will be armed with His power, His name will be upon you, His angels will have charge over you, and you will grow up in the blessing of the Holy Ghost.”
In the house of the Lord “we are literally endowed with heavenly power.”
Faith in Jesus Christ is confirmed and fortified and Latter-day Saints are blessed with protection from temptations and distractions
We are armed with the power of God
In the temple, “we take His name more completely upon us. … In the temple, we sacredly promise, through our covenants, to follow Him forever.”
Coming to the temple with a willing heart, “we grow up in the Lord and can ‘receive a fullness of the Holy Ghost.’”
It’s “through the power of the Holy Ghost, we are filled with peace and joy and unspeakable hope.”
In His house, we are literally endowed with heavenly power
Through the power of the Holy Ghost, we are filled with peace and joy and unspeakable hope
My beloved friends, if we are able and have not already increased our attendance at the temple, let us regularly find more time to worship in the house of the Lord

Talk: Mark L. Pace – Recently Released Sunday School President

It Is Wisdom in the Lord That We Should Have the Book of Mormon

Major Themes:

Notable Stories: Story of his knowing the scripture is true.

Scripture References 1 Nephi 8:; :

Be mindful and careful of falling into personal apostasy
In Sunday classes, he that preacheth and he that listeneth edify each other.
Sometimes reading the Book of Mormon is just about feeling connected to God today
We improve our teaching in church on Sundays by improving our study at home during the week
The great work and spiritual powers of the scriptures continue in our lives today
There has never been a people in history with the access to the Book of Mormon and other scriptures that we enjoy today
With these thoughts in mind, we could consider the following questions:
- “What has the Holy Ghost taught us this week during our study of the Book of Mormon?”
- “How does this bring us closer to the Savior?”
Intentional parenting: Lehi
If it is wisdom for Lehi and his family to have the scriptures it is wisdom for us today.
The most important copy of the Book of Mormon is our personal copy.
Your study will help you and those you are around
Your thoughts can bring up different ideas for others
You can be an answer to a prayer
If is wisdom to have the scriptures anciently, then it is wisdom to have the scriptures today
Know for yourself the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon
As we study the Book of Mormon and follow the living prophet, there will be no personal apostasy in our lives.
The Book of Mormon is the “keystone” that makes the dispensation of the fullness of times different from all previous dispensations
While God has promised there will never be another general apostasy, we need to be mindful and careful to avoid a personal apostasy — remembering, as President Russell M. Nelson has taught, “We are each responsible for our individual spiritual growth.”
Individuals study the scriptures so the Holy Ghost can deepen their conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
Two questions that could improve learning at home and teaching at church are: “What has the Holy Ghost taught us this week during our study of the Book of Mormon?” and “How does this bring us closer to the Savior?”
The great worth and spiritual power of the scriptures Lehi and his family experienced continue today.
There has never been a people in history with the access to the Book of Mormon and other scriptures that we enjoy today
The most important copy of the Book of Mormon is our personal copy
It is the copy that we read
As we study the Book of Mormon and follow the living prophet, there will be no personal apostasy in our lives
The most important copy of the Book of Mormon is our personal copy. It is the copy that we read
As we study the Book of Mormon and follow the living prophet, there will be no personal apostasy in our lives
It is my prayer that reading the Book of Mormon this year will be a joy and a blessing for each of us and will draw us ever nearer to the Savior

Talk: Russell M. Nelson – President

(Title)

Major Themes: Temple worship

Notable Stories: Being called to the Quorum of 12 Apostles 40 years ago; Revelations in the Kirtland Temple;

Scripture References: D&C 109

6 functioning temples when he was born
Importance of the Kirtland Temple
- Appearance of Jesus Christ.
- I will manifest myself in mercy in this house.
I hope you will repeatedly study the messages of this conference throughout the coming monthsThis applies to every dedicated temple today
Ponder what this promise means to you personally
Moses restored the keys to the gathering of Israel.
Malachi and Elijah also appeared.
- Gospel of Abraham
- Elijah – Keys of the sealing power
- Gathering of Israel.
The significance of these keys being returned to the earth … under the direction of the Lord cannot be overstated
Priesthood keys govern how the priesthood of God may be used to bring about the Lord’s purposes and bless all who accept the restored gospel of Jesus Christ
Priesthood keys constitute the power and authority of presidency
Regular temple worship will enhance the way you see yourself and how you fit into God’s magnificent plan
Priesthood keys differentiate The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from any organization on Earth
Priesthood keys are once again on the earth
Gathering of Israel is evidence of God’s love
The gospel of Abraham is further evidence
The sealing is supernal evidence
Gathering of Israel
- Evidence God loves all of His children everywhere
- Temple work makes all of these blessings available to all His children
Sealing power is supernal evidence God loves all of his children everywhere
Without priesthood keys, the Church could serve only as a significant teaching and humanitarian organization but not much more
List of attributes in the dedicatory prayer is a promise of what will happen to those who serve faithfully in the house of God
Temple work makes these exquisite blessings available to all of God’s children, regardless of where or when they lived or now live
Joseph Smith’s dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple is a tutorial about how the temple spiritually empowers you and me to meet the challenges of life in these last days
I encourage you to study that prayer recorded in Doctrine and Covenants section 109
We may receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost in the Temple
Time in the temple will help you think celestial
As an endowed woman or man armed by the power of God, you do not have to face life alone
No combination of wickedness will prevail over those who worship in the house of the Lord
The temple is the gateway to the greatest blessings God has in store for each of us.
Nothing will help you more to hold fast to the iron rod than worshipping in the temple as regularly as your circumstances permit
Understanding the spiritual privileges made possible in the temple is vital to each of us today
Regular temple worship will enhance the way you see yourself and how you fit into God’s magnificent plan
I promise you that
Priesthood keys govern “how the priesthood of God may be used to bring about the Lord’s purposes and bless all who accept the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.”
The keys conferred to Joseph Smith in the Kirtland Temple authorized him — and all succeeding Presidents of the Church — to gather Israel on both sides of the veil, to bless all covenant children with the blessings of Abraham, to place a ratifying seal on priesthood ordinances and covenants, and to seal families eternally.
Priesthood keys are what distinguish the Church from any other organization on earth and enable every covenant-keeping man and woman to enjoy “incredible personal spiritual privileges.”
The temple is spiritually empowering
Understanding the spiritual privileges made possible in the temple is vital to each of us today
The temple is the gateway to the greatest blessings God has for each of His children
The temple is the only place on earth where individuals may receive all of the blessings promised to Abraham
Let us rejoice in the restoration of priesthood keys which make it possible for you and me to enjoy every spiritual blessing we are willing and worthy to receive
The power of these priesthood keys is infinite and breathtaking
Consider how your life would be different if priesthood keys had not been restored to the earth
Without priesthood keys the Church could serve only as a significant teaching and humanitarian organization but not much more

Temples announced (15)

Uturoa, French Polynesia
Chihuahua, Mexico
Florianopolis, Brazil
Rosario, Argentina
Edinburgh, Scotland
Brisbane (South Area), Australia
Victoria, British Columbia
Yuma, Arizona
Houston (South Area), Texas
Honolulu, Hawaii
West Jordan, Utah
Lehi, Utah
Maracaibo, Venezuela
Des Moines, Iowa
Cincinnati, Ohio

Hymn: Now Let Us Rejoice in the Day of Salvation (#)

Benediction: Amy A. Wright – YW 1st Counselor

Saturday Morning Session

Opening Hymn: (Hymn) – Come We That Love the Lord (#119)
Conducting: President Dallin H. Oaks – 1st Counselor in the 1st Presidency

Hymn: (Hymn) – The Morning Breaks (#1)

Invocation: S. Gifford Nielsen – General Authority 70 (Newly Released effective August)

BREAKING NEWS: President Russell M. Nelson views the General Conference from home. Members of the Quorum of the Twelve will help conduct three of the five sessions.

Interesting that they are doing the sustaining and releasing now. Normally it is during the second session.

Also interesting that when doing releasings they also mentioned giving a vote of thanks to the wives and families, or at least that is the first time I have noticed that.

The Sustaining of the Church Officers:

Released
- General Authority 70’s (given emeritus status)
  - Elder Ian S. Ardern
  - Elder Shayne M. Bowen
  - Elder Paul V. Johnson
  - Elder S. Gifford Nielsen
  - Elder Brent H. Nielson
  - Elder Adrián Ochoa
  - Elder Gary B. Sabin
  - Elder Evan A. Schmutz
- Sunday School General Presidency
  - President Mark L. Pace – President
  - Milton Camargo – 1st Counselor
  - Jan E. Newman – 2nd Counselor
Called
- General Authority 70’s
  - Elder David L. Buckner
  - Elder Gregorio E. Casillas
  - Elder Aroldo B. Cavalcante
  - Elder I. Raymond Egbo
  - Elder D. Martin Goury
  - Elder Karl D. Hirst
  - Elder Christopher H. Kim
  - Elder Sandino Roman
  - Elder Steven D. Shumway
  - Elder Michael B. Strong
  - Elder Sergio R. Vargas
- Presidency of the 70
  - Carl B. Cook – Senior President
  - Marcus B. Nash
- Sunday School General Presidency
  - Paul V, Johnson – President
  - Chad H. Webb – 1st Counselor
  - Gabriel W. Reed – 2nd Counselor
- 64 Area 70’s – https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/april-2024-general-conference-leadership-session

Church Auditing Department Report, (2023): Jared B. Larsen – Managing Director

D&C 120
Funds were administered appropriately.

Hymn: Did You Think to Pray (#140)

Talk: Jeffrey R. Holland – Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Motions of a Hidden Fire

I love Elder (Now President) Holland’s sense of humor. It was SORELY missed!

Major Themes: Prayer

Notable Stories: Memories of his wife Patricia; Time in the hospital;

Scripture References: 2 Nephi 4:35

Take up your cross more earnestly.
God hears each or our prayers.
Return with more urgency, more focus on the savior, and more faith in His word
Prayers for Pat and Elder Holland were both answered, only differently
“But I promise you they were heard and they were answered”
Our prayers ought to be vocal when we have the privacy to offer them.
Prayers are heard and prayers are answered according to His timetable
I cannot speak fully of that [hospital] experience here, but I can say part of what I received was an admonition to return to my ministry with more urgency, more consecration, more focus on the Savior, more faith in His word
Hesitancy to pray does not come from God
Prayers are most formal way of service
God hears every prayer that we offer
There are no limits to when, how, or where we should pray
“Gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” (Quoting GK Chesterton)
We need to be serious in our planning for eternal life
- This is an urgent matter
When Christ comes, He needs to recognize us — not as nominal members listed on a faded baptismal record but as thoroughly committed, faithfully believing, covenant-keeping disciples
I have tried to take up my cross more earnestly, with more resolve to find where I can raise an apostolic voice of both warmth and warning in the morning, during the day, and into the night
God hears every prayer and responds to each according to the path He has outlined for His children.
There are no limits to when, where or about what to pray, if one “ask[s] not amiss”
Prayers ought to be vocal.
If privacy is not practical, prayers should be silent utterances in one’s heart.
If there be any time we feel not to pray, we can be sure that hesitancy does not come from God, who yearns to communicate with His children at any and all times
When unsure how or what to pray about, begin and continue until the Spirit guides into the prayer that should be offered.
The Savior, though perfect, prayed to the Father often.
He prayed alone, in the company of others, sometimes standing and sometimes kneeling.
In fulfilling His atoning sacrifice, He prayed ever more pleadingly.
With prayer, pleading and personal righteousness, “we really can ascend to Mount Zion.
As we repent of our sins and come boldly to that ‘throne of grace,’ leaving before Him there our alms and heartfelt supplications, we will find mercy, compassion and forgiveness at the benevolent hands of our Eternal Father and His obedient, perfectly pure Son.”
I testify that God hears every prayer we offer and responds to each of them according to the path He has outlined for our perfection.
It is for reasons known only to God why prayers are answered differently than we hope — but I promise you they are heard, and they are answered according to His unfailing love and cosmic timetable.
He needs to recognize us — not as nominal members listed on a faded baptismal record but as thoroughly committed, faithfully believing, covenant-keeping disciples.

Talk: J. Anette Dennis – RS 1st Counselor

Put Ye On the Lord Jesus Christ

Major Themes:

Notable Stories: Prayers

Scripture References: Romans 13:14

Jesus taught through stories and symbols
We are invited into a covenant relationship with God
Hesed Relationship
Our Father wants a deeper relationship with all His sons and daughters, but it is our choice.
As we choose to draw nearer to Him through a covenant relationship, it allows Him to draw nearer to us and more fully bless us.
Jesus Christ is at the center of all covenants we make, and covenant blessings are made possible because of His atoning sacrifice.
When we wear the garments, we symbolically put on Christ
Garments are good.
The garment of the holy priesthood is deeply symbolic and points to the Savior.
Kaphar (or kafar) means “to cover”.
Our temple garments cover us with the Savior
When we choose to be part of a covenant, it enhances and deepens our relationship with Him
Becoming more like Him as we take on us His name and the symbolism of our covenants help teach us those things
Through a covenant relationship with God, our own lives can become a living symbol of our commitment and deep love for our Father in Heaven
Choosing to be part of a covenant enhances and deepens “our relationship with [God].”
Baptism by immersion is symbolic of the Savior’s death and Resurrection
With our baptism we symbolically put on Christ.
The ordinance of the sacrament is symbolic of Christ’s flesh and blood.
We again put on Christ as we make a new covenant each week.
Everything in the house of the Lord points to the Savior and His atoning sacrifice.
Our temple garment reminds us that the Savior and the blessings of His Atonement cover us throughout our lives.
As we put on the garment of the holy priesthood each day, that beautiful symbol becomes a part of us.
By keeping my covenants and obligations with God, including wearing the garment of the holy priesthood, my very life can become a personal symbol of my love and deep gratitude for my Savior, Jesus Christ and my desire to have Him with me always.
Someone does not have to wait for a mission or marriage to make temple covenants.
Choose a deeper relationship with God by making covenants with Him in the house of the Lord.
Each person on earth is a beloved son or daughter of God. When we choose to be part of a covenant, it enhances and deepens our relationship with Him.
As we choose to draw nearer to Him through a covenant relationship, it allows Him to draw nearer to us and more fully bless us.
As part of the temple endowment, we are authorized to wear the garment of the holy priesthood. It is both a sacred obligation and a sacred privilege.

Talk: Alexander Dushku – General Authority 70

Pillars and Rays

Major Themes: Testimony

Notable Stories: Joseph Smith’s First Vision

Scripture References: Joseph Smith – History 1:16; 1 Nephi 1:20;

We too need to know for ourselves.
Sometimes folks drift away because they haven’t experienced the spectacular.
Expecting the spectacular can cause us not to see the constant light.
The restoration began with prayer
We too need to know for ourselves the truth
One of these great truths is that revelation continues
We are living in revelation
Bursts of light
If we have received the gift of the Holy Ghost and are striving to exercise faith, repent and honor our covenants, then we are worthy to receive these divine rays constantly
How do we experience these heavenly rays
- Peace
- Impression
- Desire
- Assurance of God’s love
- Scripture speaks to your soul
- Feel the Love of God for others
We may not have seen a pillar of light, but we have seen many heavenly rays.
Rather than sending us a pillar of light, the Lord sends us a ray of light, and then another, and another.
…awakened by a feeling of pure intelligence…
Here a little there a little, the Lord send rays of light
We too can have our pillar of light, one ray at a time.
We too can have our own pillar of light — one ray at a time
And in the midst of that pillar, we too will find a loving Heavenly Father, calling us by name, pointing us to our Savior, Jesus Christ, and inviting us to ‘Hear Him!’
Perhaps no one ray is strong enough or bright enough to constitute a full testimony, but together they can become a light that the darkness of doubt cannot overcome.
No two people experience God’s light and truth in exactly the same way.
Take some time to think about how you experience the light and Spirit of the Lord.
One of the great truths of the restoration is that the heavens are open
After a “thick darkness” enveloped Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove, by exerting all his power to call upon God, a “pillar of light” gradually descended upon him. The reestablishment of the Lord’s Church began with Joseph’s desperate prayer and a pillar of light.
Rather than sending us a pillar of light, the Lord sends us a ray of light, and then another, and another.
These rays are continuously poured down upon God’s children.
If we have received the gift of the Holy Ghost and are striving to exercise faith, repent and honor our covenants, then we are worthy to receive these divine rays constantly.
Everyone experiences God’s light and truth in different ways.
A burst of testimony may come as a spiritual impression, a joyful assurance of God’s love, the gift to recognize “tender mercies of the Lord” or more.
No single ray is strong enough to constitute a full testimony, but together, they become a pillar of light the darkness of doubt cannot overcome.
In the midst of that pillar, we too will find a loving Heavenly Father, calling us by name, pointing us to our Savior, Jesus Christ, and inviting us to ‘Hear Him!’
Rather than sending us a pillar of light, the Lord sends us a ray of light, and then another, and another. Those rays of light are continuously being poured down upon us
Perhaps no one ray is strong enough or bright enough to constitute a full testimony, but together they can become a light the darkness of doubt cannot overcome
We too can have our own pillar of light — one ray at a time
And in the midst of that pillar, we too will find a loving Heavenly Father, calling us by name, pointing us to our Savior, Jesus Christ, and inviting us to ‘hear Him!’
The restoration began with prayer
We too need to know for ourselves the truth
One of these great truths is that revelation continues

Hymn: Press Forward Saints

Talk: Ulisses Soares – Quorum of the 12

Covenant Confidence through Jesus Christ

Elder Soares gave a good talk at our special stake conference on Palm Sunday

In all fairness, I wanted to be baptized on the first Sunday of January, 2019, as I figured it is a new year so why not start the new year with a new lease on spiritual life as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Major Themes: Covenant Confidence

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

Do we get so excited about a new temple that we forget the significance of the work done inside?
Like Nephi: As the Lord liveth, and as we live, we will not go down unto our father in the wilderness until we have accomplished the thing which the Lord hath commanded us.
Those who gain genuine confidence in the covenants made in the house of the Lord through Jesus Christ possess one of the most powerful forces that we can access in this life
When we enter the Lord’s house, we embark on a sacred journey on 0learning to become higher and holier disciples of Christ
Confidence in the covenants.
Oldest class in Primary is like a Temple Preparation Class
Home Centered. Church Supported. Temple Bound.
Have your next temple appointment scheduled, whether it is near or far.
Being temple-bound secures us to the Savior, gives us proper direction and stability while ensuring we have covenant confidence through Jesus Christ.
When the Lord sees a spark of desire he will bless us.
Having the spirit of the Lord’s house within us changes us.
Everything taught in the temple, through instruction and through the Spirit, increases our understanding of Jesus Christ
If we change our preparation to enter the temple, we will change our experience in the temple, which will transform our lives outside of the temple.
Having the spirit of the Lord’s house in us, changes us completely
To have “covenant confidence through Jesus Christ” means trusting in the quiet, yet certain, assurance of receiving the blessings that God promises for those who keep their covenants — a blessing needed amid the challenging circumstances of the day.
This “holier and higher” confidence comes as disciples of Christ make covenants with the Lord in the temple.
It fortifies, strengthens and empowers those who keep their covenants to overcome doubt, despair, hopelessness and trials
I assure you that having the spirit of the Lord’s house in us, changes us completely
Such confidence is the pinnacle of our divine connection with God and can help us increase our devotion to, and gratitude for, Jesus Christ and His infinite sacrifice.
Confidence through Jesus Christ is gained with humility, living a righteous life and honoring covenants made in the temple.
The Savior asks each attendee to come to the temple spiritually prepared.
The ongoing building of temples will continue to excite, inspire and bless the Church
Yet more importantly, as Latter-day Saints change their preparation to enter the house of the Lord, they will change their experiences in the temple, which will also transform their lives outside of the temple
May this transformation fill us with confidence in our holy covenants made with God through Jesus Christ
If there is one thing we could possess — and one thing we could pass on to our children and grandchildren that would help each in the tests and trials ahead — it would be confidence in the covenants made through Jesus Christ
Preparation isn’t just for those going to the temple for the first time
We should all be perpetually preparing to go to the house of the Lord
The house of the Lord is where we can be transformed in higher and holier ways
No two people experience God’s light and truth in exactly the same way.
Take some time to think about how you experience the light and Spirit of the Lord

Talk: Jack N. Gerard – General Authority 70

Integrity: A Christlike Attribute

Major Themes: The Christlike attribute of Integrity

Notable Stories: Daniel showing integrity

Scripture References: Daniel 6:1–20; John 13:35

Jesus Christ is our exemplar
Living a life of integrity requires us to be
Integrity means we do not lower our standards
We do what is right and let the consequence follow.
Integrity is a Christlike attribute
Integrity requires that we are true to God
Some may see God through our integrity
A life of integrity is not perfection.
It is being true to God.
…an outward expression of an inner commitment…
Our zeal to keep the second commandment must not cause us to forget the first
A life of integrity is not a life of perfection; it is a life in which we strive every day to foremost be true to God and, within that context, to be true to others
Become the face of the true and living God
Integrity: Our actions are consistent with our words
- We must be beyond reproach
- Aligned to the standards of the church
Acting with integrity builds faith and trust
Christian kindness is not a substitute for integrity
Follow the Savior and not shrink
Acting with integrity builds faith and trust, and reassures others that we seek only to do the will of the Lord
May we follow our exemplar, the Savior of the world, and not shrink, but live a life that is true to God, to each other and to our divine identity.
Our focus is on the Savior, and we are careful to avoid actions that may be perceived as serving our own interests
In performing the Atonement, the Savior Jesus Christ manifested the attribute of integrity
Living a life of integrity means being true to God, to each other and to our divine identity
Integrity means not lowering standards or behavior to impress or be accepted by others
It means doing what is right and letting the consequences follow
A life of integrity requires us to first and foremost be true to God
How Latter-day Saints respond to the oppositional pull of the world shows a person’s true character and the measure of their integrity
Exercising integrity in our choices is an outward expression of an inner commitment to follow the Savior Jesus Christ
Being true to others flows from the second great commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Church members must rise above worldly expectations and “become the face of the true and living God at all times and in all places.”
Joseph and Hyrum Smith demonstrated integrity by remaining true to the end of their lives, as well as to the light and knowledge they received
May we reconcile ourselves ‘to the will of God’ and develop the Christlike attribute of integrity
Exercising integrity in our choices is an outward expression of an inner commitment to follow the Savior Jesus Christ
A life of integrity is not a life of perfection, it is a life in which we strive every day to foremost be true to God and within that context to be true to others
Acting with integrity builds faith and trust, and reassures others that we seek only to do the will of the Lord

Hymn: I Know That My Savior Loves Me

Talk: Henry B. Eyring – 2nd Counselor in the 1st Presidency

(Title)

Major Themes: Covenants

Notable Stories: Flood in Rexburg, Idaho when Grand Teton Dam broke

Scripture References:

President Eyring’s talk looks pretaped, which is odd since I had seen him sitting on the rostrum when President Oaks did the sustaining of General Officers

All will be well because of the temple covenants
As we attend the temple, we can be reminded of the eternal nature of our spirits
The safest place to be spiritually is living inside our temple covenants
When we make covenants, we leave neutral ground
Qualifying to make sacred covenants is not a one-time effort but a lifetime pattern
Live so that when the call comes you can walk away easily.
There is nothing more important than honoring covenants made in the temple.
Visit as often as circumstances will allow.
Temples are houses of the Lord

Hymn: We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet – Hymn 19

Benediction: Mark D. Eddy – General Authority 70

Saturday Afternoon Session

Conducting: Elder Gary E. Stevenson – Quorum of the 12

Hymn: All Glory, Laud, and Honor (#86)

Invocation: Elder Ryan K. Olsen – General Authority 70

Good to see President Nelson on the rostrum for this session!

With Elder Stevenson conducting this session, it would make sense to have the sustaining of officers in the first session

Statistical Report, (2023):

	2023	2022
Church Units
Stakes	3,565	3,521
Missions	414	411
Districts	489	517
Wards and Branches	31,490	31,330
Church Membership
Total Membership	17,255,394	17,002,461
New Children of record	93,594	89,059
Converts baptized	251,763	212,172
Missionaries
Full-time	67,871	62,544
Church-service
Senior Church-Service	27,801	27,070
Young Church-Service	3,884	2,736
Temples
Temples Dedicated		5 Belem Brazil Temple Quito Ecuador Temple Praia Cape Verde Temple Yigo Guam Temple Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple
Temples Rededicated		2 Washington DC Temple Hamilton New Zealand Temple
Temples in operation	186	171
Temples Under Construction	55
Temples Announced	94

Talk: David A. Bednar – Quorum of the 12

Be Still, and Know That I Am God

Major Themes: Be still

Notable Stories: Tour of the temple

Scripture References: Psalm 46:10; Helaman 5:12; D&C 101:16;

Jesus Christ is our Mediator and our Advocate with Heavenly Father
Did not speak in the celestial room.
Observation from journalist:
- I have never experienced anything like that.
- I had not experienced quiet like that.
- I did not know that level of stillness was possible.
Be still and know that I am God.
- More then not talking and not moving
We are commanded to build our personal foundation on Jesus Christ
The foundation of our lives must be connected to the bedrock of Christ.
In the temple and other holy places, we can be still and know that God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children, and Jesus Christ is our Savior
The Sabbath is God’s day, a time to worship Him in the name of Jesus Christ
The Lord provides sacred times and holy places to connect to the Savior.
Every Sunday – if we will – we can be still and know that God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children
Only as we return to our homes with the spirit we gained at church can we progress well.
Our homes should be the perfect combination of sacred time and holy places.
As home and Church are gathered together in one in Christ, we may be troubled on every side, but we will not be distressed in our minds and hearts.
The foundation of our lives must be connected to the rock of Christ if we are to remain firm and steadfast
Make your home a holy place.
Bring home the experiences, thoughts, feelings, and testimony you gain while worshiping at church and the temples.
Make the Gospel of Jesus Christ your lifestyle.
As we build the foundation of our lives on the rock of Jesus Christ, we can be blessed by the Holy Ghost, to receive an individual and spiritual stillness of the soul
Our homes should be the supreme combination of sacred time and holy place, where individuals and families can rest easy and know that God is our Heavenly Father.
The Lord’s admonition to “be still” (Psalm 46:10) reminds individuals to focus on the Savior as the ultimate source of spiritual stillness of the soul.
The foundation of a building is what connects it to the ground, and a strong and reliable connection between the ground and a foundation is essential if a structure is to remain sturdy.
Similarly, “the foundation of our lives must be connected to the rock of Christ if we are to remain firm and steadfast.”
Sacred covenants and ordinances can be compared to the anchor pins and steel rods used to connect a building to bedrock.
Every time we faithfully receive, review, remember and renew sacred covenants, our spiritual anchors are secured ever more firmly and steadfastly to the ‘rock’ of Jesus Christ.”
As individuals build their foundation upon the Savior, they are blessed to “be still.”
The Lord provides both sacred times and holy places to help individuals experience and learn about this inner stillness of their souls.
Our homes should be the ultimate combination of both sacred time and holy places wherein individuals and families can ‘be still’ and know that God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children, and Jesus Christ is the Savior.
As the foundation of our lives is built upon the Savior, we are blessed to ‘be still’ — to have a spiritual assurance that God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children, and Jesus Christ is our Savior.
The principal purposes of sacred time and holy places are exactly the same: to repeatedly focus our attention upon our Heavenly Father and His plan, the Lord Jesus Christ and His Atonement, the edifying power of the Holy Ghost, and the promises associated with the sacred ordinances and covenants of the Savior’s restored gospel.
I promise that as we build the foundation of our lives on the ‘rock’ of Jesus Christ, we can be blessed by the Holy Ghost to receive an individual and spiritual stillness of the soul.

Talk: Massimo De Feo – General Authority 70

Rise! He Calleth Thee

Major Themes:

Notable Stories: Blind Bartimaeus

Scripture References: Mark 10:46–52

Living the gospel doesn’t help us avoid problems, it helps us deal with them.
We keep a clear spiritual vision when we focus on Jesus Christ and stay true to Jesus Christ
The first principle we learn is we keep a clear spiritual vision when we focus on Jesus Christ and stay true to what we know to be true.
We need to cry even louder our testimony of Jesus Christ
In this confusing and confused world, we must stay faithful to our covenants and the commandments
We need to cry even louder our testimony of the Gospel to the world
It is true that at times people, consciously or not, hurt us.
But we need to decide to act with faith in Christ by removing the mental and emotional coat that we might still wear to hide excuses or sin, and throw it away, knowing that He can and will heal us
Among all the voices of the world, the Lord is counting on me and you to declare our testimonies, to raise our voice, and to become His voice.
If we don’t do it, who will testify of Jesus Christ?
Who will speak His name, and declare His divine mission?
The first principle we learn is we keep a clear spiritual vision when we focus on Jesus Christ and stay true to what we know to be true
The second principle we learn is we keep a clear spiritual vision when we leave the natural man behind, repent, and begin a new life in Christ
The third principle we learn is we keep a clear spiritual vision when we hear the voice of the Lord and allow Him to guide us.
When you decide to say, “I am the way I am, and I cannot change,” you are continuing to wear the beggar’s coat.
You can change.
It’s no excuse.
One of the most important lessons in this story is that this man exercised true faith in Jesus Christ and received a miracle because he asked with real intent; the real intent to follow Him.
May we cry our testimony of the Savior, louder than the voices around us, in a world that needs to hear more of Jesus Christ and not less
It is true that at times people – consciously or not – hurt us.
But we need to decide to act with faith in Christ by removing the mental and emotional coat that we might still bear to hide excuses or sin, and throw it away, knowing that He can and will heal us.
The story of a blind man named Bartimaeus teaches about spiritual vision. He cried out, “Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me,” recognizing that Jesus was the Messiah, to be born as a descendant of David.
When people told Bartimaeus to be quiet, he cried out more.
At the Lord’s command to rise, he threw away his beggar’s coat and went to Jesus. He received his sight and followed Jesus.
Three principles can be learned from this story.
- “We keep a clear spiritual vision when we:
  - Focus on Jesus Christ and stay true to what we know to be true.
  - Leave the natural man behind, repent and begin a new life in Christ.
  - Hear the voice of the Lord and allow Him to guide us.”
May we cry our testimony of Him, louder than the voices around us, in a world that needs to hear more of Jesus Christ and not less.
May we remove the beggar’s coat that we might still wear, and rise above the world, to a better life in and through Christ.
May we get rid of all excuses not to follow Jesus Christ and find all good reasons to follow Him, as we hear His voice.
Brothers and Sisters, to keep our spiritual sight intact, we need to decide not to listen to the voices of the world around us. … We need to cry even louder our testimony of the Lord to the world.
For me, keeping a clear spiritual vision is all about focusing on Jesus Christ.
I testify that this gospel is the answer for everything, because Jesus Christ is the answer for everyone. I am grateful for what I can see as I follow my Savior.

Hymn: God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son – Hymn (#187)

Talk: Brent H. Nielson – Newly released General Authority 70

A Record of What I Have Both Seen and Heard

Major Themes: Witness of Jesus Christ.

Notable Stories

Scripture References: D&C 107:25; Mormon 1:1; Acts 3:; Matthew 28:18–20; Mosiah 2:41;

There are 335 working or announced temples dotting the earth today
FamilySearch adds more than one million names every day.
If you can’t find your ancestor’s name today, check again tomorrow.
Being able to do temple work has never been as it is today
The Church of Jesus Christ is growing daily
There are 74,000 missionaries baptizing over 20,000 new members every month
We are eyewitnesses to the ongoing Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the fulfilling of the prophecy of Joseph Smith that ‘the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear.’
During his career as a trial lawyer, Elder Nielson quickly learned the importance of witnesses testifying in court
Similarly, “‘witness’ and ‘testimony’ are terms that we use as we share our knowledge and feelings about the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
He bore witness of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, living prophets and apostles, and the restored gospel
I testify that … there has never been a better time to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints than today
I know this of my own knowledge, independent of any other source, because of what I have both seen and heard
The most inspiring miracle of the Restoration is the number of faithful Church members in every land, armed with righteousness and power
All over the world, Church members keep their covenants, unite in their witnesses of the gospel and move forward in faith
You are the covenant children of the Father
You are disciples of Jesus Christ
You also know what I know because you have received your personal witness of the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ
You and I are witnesses who testify
‘Witness’ and ‘testimony’ are terms that we use as we share our knowledge and feelings about the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ
I testify that based upon what I have both seen and heard, there has never been a better time to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints than today
I know this of my own knowledge, independent of any other source, because of what I have both seen and heard
You are the covenant children of the Father
You are disciples of Jesus Christ
You also know what I know because you have received your personal witness of the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ
You and I are witnesses who testify

Talk: Jose L. Alonso – General Authority 70

Jesus Christ at the Center of Our Lives

Major Themes:

Notable Stories:

Scripture References: Matthew 11:28–30; Matthew 14:;

By putting Christ in the corner of our mind, we align ourselves with his strength
When confronted with challenges, it’s easy to become engrossed in our difficulties.
However, Jesus Christ exemplified the power of focusing on His Father, offering gratitude and acknowledging that solutions to our trials do not always lie within ourselves, but with God
By placing Christ at the core of our thoughts and deeds, we align ourselves with His outlook and strength
It is easy to become engrossed in our challenges
Solutions to our trials do not lie within ourselves, but with God

Jesus Christ is our hope and the answer to life’s greatest pains
Throughout difficult trials, people sometimes wonder where they can find peace and healing
The unwavering love of Jesus Christ offers hope, healing and the assurance of His constant, enduring presence
This gift is available to all who reach out to Him in faith
When confronted with challenges, it’s easy to become engrossed in our difficulties
However, Jesus Christ exemplified the power of focusing on His Father, offering gratitude and acknowledging that solutions to our trials do not always lie within ourselves, but with God
Additionally, as individuals place Jesus Christ at the core of their thoughts and deeds, they align themselves with His outlook and strength
This adjustment doesn’t discount trials, but instead helps people navigate their challenges under divine guidance
Adopting this Christ-centric perspective empowers us with the fortitude and insight to turn our trials into victories, reminding us that with the Savior, what seems like a major problem can become a pathway to greater spiritual progress
As Church members strive to put Christ at the center of their lives, they will discover the strength to overcome, the courage to persevere and peace that surpasses all understanding
Jesus Christ is our hope and the answer to life’s greatest pains
When confronted with challenges, it’s easy to become engrossed in our difficulties
However, Jesus Christ exemplified the power of focusing on His Father, offering gratitude and acknowledging that solutions to our trials do not always lie within ourselves, but with God
Adopting this Christ-centric perspective empowers us with the fortitude and insight to turn our trials into victories, reminding us that with the Savior, what seems like a major problem can become a pathway to greater spiritual progress
Jesus Christ is our hope and the answer to life’s greatest pains
Jesus Christ is our hope and the answer to life’s greatest pains
It is in Him that we discover the strength to overcome, the courage to persevere and the peace that surpasses all understanding

Hymn: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty- Hymn (#72)

Talk: Gerrit W. Gong – Quorum of the 12

All Things for Your Good

Major Themes:

Notable Stories:

Scripture References: Romans 8:28;

All things work together for your good
When we trust God and His love for us, even our greatest heartbreaks can in the end work together for our good.
When we are still, open, and reverent, we may feel the beauty, purpose, and serenity of the covenant belonging the Lord offers.
Lived with faith, trials and sacrifices we would never choose can bless us and others in ways never imagined
When we are going through difficult times, serving faithfully in our church calling can bring about a sense of peace to our lives
We become our truest, best selves only as we put off the natural man or woman and become a child before God
Ministering brothers & sisters are spiritual first responders to their neighbors. B B
Even our greatest heartbreaks, in the end, work out for our good
When we trust God and His love for us, even our greatest heartbreaks can in the end work together for our good
Consider the blessing of owning your own temple clothes where circumstances permit

In time and eternity, the purpose of Creation and the nature of God Himself are to bring all things together for our good
Everything we believe and every promise God has made comes together in the temple
When life is cluttered and purpose isn’t clear, when you want to live better but don’t know how, please come to God our Father and Jesus Christ
As circumstances permit, please come even more often to the Lord in His holy house.
Let regular temple worship and service bless, protect and inspire you and your family
In time and eternity, the purpose of Creation and the nature of God Himself are to bring all things together for our good
In a world of tempests and tribulations, those who love and follow God are promised that all things will work together for their good.
The nature of God is “to bring all things together for our good.”
Because of Jesus Christ’s Atonement, He not only redeems one from sin, but understands each pain and affliction.
In time and eternity, His triumph over death and hell can make all things right.
Faithful families and individuals around the world are confronting challenges while knowing that things will work together for good, even if they don’t know how. With faith, “trials and sacrifices we would never choose can bless us and others in ways never imagined.”
Faith in this promise increases as one gains eternal perspective, understands trials may be for a small moment and are part of mortality, recognizes that affliction can be consecrated for one’s gain and trusts that God doesn’t give trials to punish or judge.
Temple blessings work together for one’s good.
More temples are being built closer to Church members.
Now, as circumstances permit, come even more often to the Lord in His holy house.
Regular temple worship and service will bless, protect and inspire individuals and families.
In time and eternity, Christ’s triumph over death and hell can make all things right.
Lived with faith, trials and sacrifices we would never choose can bless us and others in ways never imagined.
In time and eternity, the purpose of Creation and the nature of God Himself are to bring all things together for our good.

Talk: Michael T. Nelson – YM 2nd Counselor

Relationships Influence Choices

Major Themes:

Notable Stories: Helaman and his stripling warriors

Scripture References:

Be true at all times, just as the stripling Ammonites were
Bishops and Young Women presidents must work together to strengthen the youth of the ward
If Helaman and his warriors did not doubt, God would deliver them
No one in the Lord’s kingdom works alone
The youth today are blessed as bishops follow the guidance to counsel with young men and young women presidents
Helaman honored covenants
Needed guidance for leaders and parents is found in the Gospel Library and the Gospel Living apps
In these inspired resources, we can find the scriptures, teachings of modern prophets and the General Handbook
When we partner with the Lord, we can trust that our efforts will be in line with what He would do for the youth
We can be powerful examples to the youth of how disciples of Christ live today
It is relationships in the lives of the youth that have the greatest influence on their choices.
Our youth amaze us with their courage, their faith and their abilities.
As they choose to be fully engaged disciples of Jesus Christ, His gospel will be etched upon their hearts.
Following Him will become a part of who they are – not just what they do.
The youth today are among Heavenly Father’s most noble spirits.
They were born in these days to gather Israel through their powerful witness in the Lord Jesus Christ
Like Helaman leading the stripling sons of the Ammonites, leaders and parents “can be powerful examples to the youth of how disciples of Christ live today.”
Helaman was trustworthy, loved and saw the potential in the Ammonite sons, built strong relationships and counseled with them, followed his leaders and kept his covenants, and was supported by parents and leaders
“Helaman helped the young Ammonites to see how a valiant disciple of Jesus Christ lived.
The restored Church of Jesus Christ “is organized to help the youth fulfill their great purpose in these latter days.”
All members can participate in strengthening the youth.
Resources include scriptures, teachings of prophets and the General Handbook.
The entire ward will be blessed and strengthened as members focus on the rising generation.
We express our confidence in the youth by offering support and direction, without taking over.
For youth to experience joy and growth, step back and allow them to learn through counseling together, choosing an inspired course and putting a plan into action.
Our youth amaze us with their courage, their faith and their abilities. As they choose to be fully engaged disciples of Jesus Christ, His gospel will be etched upon their hearts.
We can be powerful examples to the youth of how disciples of Christ live today.
We express our confidence in the youth by offering support and direction, without taking over.
Our youth amaze us with their courage, their faith and their abilities.

Hymn: How Great the Wisdom and the Love

Talk: Quentin L. Cook – Quorum of the 12

(Title)

Major Themes:

Notable Stories:

Scripture References: 2 Nephi 9:41; D&C 20:; John 17:20–23

Regardless of who our earthly ancestors are, each of us will report to the Savior on how well we kept His commandments

- The Lord’s saving mercy is not dependent on lineage, education, economic status, or race.
- It is based on being one with Christ and His commandments.

All requirements for baptism are spiritual

Some have wrongly assumed that because all people are invited to receive His goodness and eternal life, there are no conduct requirements.
However, the scriptures attest that all accountable persons are required to repent of sins and keep His commandments
The Book of Mormon makes it clear that all are invited to partake of the Lord’s goodness ‘black and white, bond and free, male and female … all are alike unto God.’
Oneness is what Christ prayed for prior to His betrayal and crucifixion.
Oneness with Christ and our Heavenly Father can be obtained through the Savior’s Atonement
Agency is vital in the Plan of Salvation
We are free to choose and act, but we do not control the consequences
Without moral agency, we could not learn, progress or choose to be one with Christ.
The requirements for baptism are purely spiritual.
There is no physical, temporal, financial, or social status required.
ALL are invited to come unto Christ
We would be wise to follow President Nelson’s counsel: Think Celestial
The most significant choices can be made by almost everyone regardless of talents, abilities, opportunities or economic circumstances.
An emphasis on putting family choices first is essential.
“There is no chance, no destiny, no fate, that can circumvent, or hinder or control the firm resolve of a determined soul.”― Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Strive to include others in our circle of oneness
Because of His atonement, we can be one with Christ.
The most significant choices can be made by almost everyone regardless of talents, abilities, opportunities or economic circumstances.
An emphasis on putting family choices first is essential
On matters of principle, conduct, religious observance and righteous living, we are in control.
Our faith in and worship of God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ is a choice that we make
We are united by our love of and faith in Jesus Christ and as children of a loving Heavenly Father.
The essence of truly belonging is to be one with Christ
Prior to His betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus Christ prayed for oneness (see John 17:20–23).
Oneness with Christ and our Heavenly Father can be obtained through the Savior’s Atonement.
Doctrine and Covenants 20 contains doctrine about the Savior’s Atonement, the plan of salvation and the ordinances of baptism and the sacrament.
There are no economic, race, gender or ethnicity requirements for baptism — all qualifications are spiritual, and all people are invited to partake of the Lord’s goodness.
That does not mean there are no conduct requirements.
The Lord makes it clear that all have moral agency.
To receive the blessings of the Savior’s Atonement, we must affirmatively exercise our moral agency to choose Christ and obey His commandments.
One cannot control many events in life, such as health challenges and accidents.
However, “on matters of principle, conduct, religious observance and righteous living, we are in control. Our faith in and worship of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, is a choice that we make.”
To follow President Russell M. Nelson’s admonition to gather Israel, “we need to include others in our circle of oneness. … The essence of truly belonging is to be one with Christ.”
Without moral agency, we could not learn, progress or choose to be one with Christ.
On matters of principle, conduct, religious observance and righteous living, we are in control.
Our faith in and worship of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, is a choice that we make.
We are united by our love of and faith in Jesus Christ and as children of a loving Heavenly Father.
The essence of truly belonging is to be one with Christ.

Hymn: We Will Sing of Zion – Hymn (#47)

Benediction: Emily Belle Freeman – YW General President

Saturday Evening Session

Hymn: (Hymn) – Hymn (#)

Conducting: Elder Dale G. Renlund – Quorum of the 12

Hymn: The Lord Is My Light

Invocation: Elder Alfred Kyungu – General Authority 70

Hymn: Oh, What Songs of the Heart ()

Talk: Elder Shayne M. Bowen – General Authority 70

Miracles, Angels and Priesthood Power

Major Themes: Covenants, Priesthood Keys

Notable Stories: Political upheaval in Chile while serving a mission; Car accident

Scripture References:

Under priesthood keys, we make sacred covenants to God in Temples
While in jail in Chile as a missionary during a time of political upheaval.
- Prayed to God. Holy Ghost comforted him.
- A line of his patriarchal blessing came back to him–promises of getting married and having children gave him peace, comfort, and hope.
- He knew then he would be no released.
- Now has 3 sons and 4 daughters.
Miracles have not ceased
Miracles and ministrations happen in our lives today
God always keeps all His promises
We have the power to seek and expect miracles
“We have to lift the van off of Emily”
- They lifted the van and gave her a blessing and commanded her to live.
- She had a collapsed lung and severed tendon in her knee.
- Today, she and her husband have 7 daughters.
- Emily was brought back to life by the power of the Melchizedek Priesthood
God’s miracles will come according to His will and His timing
If you desire the blessings of the priesthood, including miracles and the ministry of angels, I invite you to walk the path of covenants God has made available to each of us
I testify that miracles have not ceased, angels are among us and the heavens are truly open
Through callings and councils, men and women, young and old, can participate in priesthood work. It is a work of miracles, attended by angels. It is the work of heaven, and it blesses all God’s children
Many today say that miracles no longer exist, that angels are fictional and that the heavens are closed.
I testify that miracles have not ceased, angels are among us and the heavens are truly open
Some priesthood blessings are fulfilled immediately, in ways we can see and understand.
Others are unfolding gradually and will not be fully realized in this life.
But God keeps all of His promises, always
Although many say miracles no longer exist today, “I testify that miracles have not ceased, angels are among us and the heavens are truly open.”
In His earthly life, Jesus Christ gave priesthood keys to Peter, His chief apostle.
Peter and other apostles led the Savior’s Church until the apostles died and the keys of the priesthood were taken from the earth.
Those keys have been restored in these latter days and were passed from prophet to prophet until President Russell M. Nelson.
Through the Savior’s Church, we receive the blessings of the priesthood — including the power of God to help us in our lives.
Under authorized priesthood keys, we make sacred promises to God and receive sacred ordinances that prepare us to live in His presence.
Miracles often occur as a direct result of priesthood power.
Some blessings are immediate, some unfold gradually, and some are not fully realized until the next life.
However, “God keeps all of His promises,” always.
If you desire the blessings of the priesthood, including miracles and the ministry of angels, I invite you to walk the path of covenants God has made available to each of us.
Many today say that miracles no longer exist, that angels are fictional and that the heavens are closed.
I testify that miracles have not ceased, angels are among us and the heavens are truly open
Some priesthood blessings are fulfilled immediately, in ways we can see and understand.
Others are unfolding gradually and will not be fully realized in this life.
But God keeps all of His promises, always.
“I know that while not all circumstances turn out like we may hope and pray for, God’s miracles will always come according to His will, His timing and His plan for us.

Talk: Elder Steven R. Bangerter – General Authority 70

Foreordained To Serve

Major Themes: Speaking to Youth of the Church

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

Our divine destiny is to be heirs of eternal life
Our Heavenly Father wishes to reveal to you your personal foreordination and He will do so as you seek to learn and follow His will. The Lord will give us glimpses on who we can become.
Foreordination does not guarantee that you will receive certain callings or responsibilities.
Those blessings and opportunities come in this life as a result of your righteous exercise of agency
Before you were born, God appointed each of you to fulfill specific missions during your mortal life upon this earth
If you remain worthy, the blessings of that premortal decree will enable you to have all kinds of opportunities in this life
The doctrine of foreordination applies to all members of the church.
Our Heavenly Father desires to reveal to you your personal foreordination, and He will do so as you seek to learn and follow His will
Protect the Private times of your life
- Advice from Father.
Foreordination is not guarantee outcomes and callings in this life
As you protect the private times of your life, your participation in the ordinances and covenants of the gospel will be more meaningful
Do you want to know God’s plan for you?
I bear witness He wants you to know, and He’s inspired His prophet to the world to invite you to pray and receive this eye-opening experience for ourselves
More than any other time in your life, what you do during the private times of your life will have the greatest impact on how you confront challenges, and heartache you will face
Our Heavenly Father will answer your prayers, especially your prayers offered during the private times of your life.
He will reveal to you your foreordained gifts and talents, and you will feel His love envelop you
When God created His spirit children, He embedded within each of them a divine nature and eternal destiny.
He blessed them with agency and foreordained each to fulfill specific missions in mortality
If you remain worthy, the blessings of that premortal decree will enable you to have all kinds of opportunities in this life, including opportunities to serve in the Church and to participate in the most important work happening on the earth today: the gathering of Israel
Heavenly Father desires to reveal to His children their foreordained gifts and talents.
He will share this knowledge to those who sincerely ask, genuinely desire to know and seek to follow His will.
One way is to “protect the private times of your life.”
- Scriptures, prayer, uplifting music and reading one’s patriarchal blessing can bring revelation and provide a safe haven amid the storms of life.
As you protect the private times of your life, your participation in the ordinances and covenants of the gospel will be more meaningful.
And you will more fully bind yourself to God in the covenants you make with Him, and you will be lifted to have greater hope, faith and assurance in the promises He has made to you.
Before you were born, God appointed each of you to fulfill specific missions during your mortal life upon this earth.
If you remain worthy, the blessings of that premortal decree will enable you to have all kinds of opportunities in this life.
Our Heavenly Father desires to reveal to you your personal foreordination, and He will do so as you seek to learn and follow His will.
Do you want to know God’s plan for you?
I bear witness He wants you to know, and He inspired His prophet to the world to invite each of us to pray and receive this eye-opening experience.
This talk made me think of this quote: “The true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching.”—UCLA Basketball Coach John Wooden

Hymn: Count Your Many Blessings

Talk: Andrea M. Spannaus – YW 2nd Counselor

Faithful to the End

Major Themes:

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

To David, the cause of God was the most important cause
While David only used one stone to kill Goliath, he came prepared with five.
5 stones
- First stone: Stone of Love for God | When we love God, many of our decisions become easier.
- Second stone: Stone of Faith in Jesus Christ | Jesus knows us because He took everything upon himself.
- Third stone: Stone of the Knowledge of My True Identity | We need strong affirmations to help us remember we children of our Heavenly Parents.
- Fourth stone: Stone of Daily Repentance | It is not punishment; it is to help us change and improve. It is an ongoing process. Repentance is available to everyone.
- Fifth stone: Stone of Access to God’s Power | God’s power is real power. It increases our capacity. Noone can take your testimony from you. It gives you freedom. It gives you joy. Our testimony is built by personal spiritual experiences in which we recognize the divine influence in our lives.
- She wishes David had another stone. The stone of testimony | Being true to the knowledge of your experience.
When your love for Heavenly Father is the most important influence in your life, many decisions become easier.
Having faith in Jesus Christ means to fully trust His wisdom, His timing, His love and His power to atone for our sins
Our love for God and our close relationship with Him give us the strength we need to transform our hearts and more easily overcome our challenges
God’s power is accessible to us through our covenants
God’s power is a real power that helps us face challenges, make good decisions and increase our capacity to endure difficult situations
Nothing is more liberating than feeling God’s forgiveness and knowing that we are clean and reconciled with Him.
Forgiveness is possible for everyone.
Our personal connection to Jesus Christ will give us the courage and confidence to move forward amid people who do not respect our beliefs or who bully us.
Jesus Christ will help us to be faithful to the end
There is joy in doing good.
There is joy in being faithful to the God of the universe, the Savior of the world, the King of Kings.
There is joy in being a disciple of Jesus Christ
Knowing what we know from having lived our spiritual experience is priceless
David was prepared with five stones when he battled Goliath.
What if each of David’s stones represented a strength we need to be triumphant in our lives?
Those five stones can represent love for God, faith in our Savior Jesus Christ, knowledge of true identity, daily repentance and access to God’s power.
Our love for God and our close relationship with Him give us the strength we need to transform our hearts and more easily overcome our challenges.
Faith in Jesus Christ “means to fully trust His wisdom, His timing, His love and His power to atone for our sins.”
President Russell M. Nelson has taught that our most important identities are as children of God, children of covenant and disciples of Jesus Christ.
On repentance, “forgiveness is possible for everyone.”
Covenants with God give people access to power of godliness.
God’s power is a real power that helps us face challenges, make good decisions and increase our capacity to endure difficult situations.
A sixth stone would be a stone of testimony.
Our testimony is built by personal spiritual experiences in which we recognize the divine influence in our lives.
No one can take that knowledge from us.
Our love for God and our close relationship with Him give us the strength we need to transform our hearts and more easily overcome our challenges.
Our testimony is built by personal spiritual experiences in which we recognize the divine influence in our lives.
There is joy in being a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Hymn: (Hymn) – Hymn (#)

Talk: Matthew L. Carpenter – General Authority 70

Fruit That Remains

Major Themes:

Notable Stories:

Scripture References:

If we make and keep covenants with God, the blessings associated with our covenants can extend beyond this life and be sealed upon us, or preserved, forever, becoming fruit that remains for all eternity.
Celestial marriage is a pivotal point in our lives.
- Right person, right place
We must Honor both the lateral (relationship between husband and wife) and vertical bond (relationship with God).
Heavenly Father will ensure that we will receive every blessing that our desires and choices allow.
The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of hope.
That hope comes through Jesus Christ with sincere repentance and obediently following Christ’s teachings
God will not require anyone to remain in a sealed relationship throughout eternity against his or her will.
Heavenly Father will ensure that we will receive every blessing that our desires and choices allow
Our loving Heavenly Father has given us covenants so that we may have access to all that He has in store for us.
To keep the vertical bond with God, we are true to the temple covenants we have made regarding the laws of obedience, sacrifice, the gospel, chastity and consecration
Those who make and keep covenants with God will see those blessings extend beyond this life and be sealed upon them forever.
To be exalted to the highest degree of the celestial kingdom, one must enter into marriage by the proper authority and then be true to the covenants made in that marriage. This eternal marriage covenant includes a lateral bond between husband and wife, and a vertical bond with God.
Each partner must desire to be in the marriage to keep the lateral bond.
To keep the vertical bond with God, stay true to temple covenants.
For those who remain faithful to covenants, they will receive the promised blessings even if their spouse has broken those covenants.
To receive the blessings of exaltation, one must demonstrate, either in this life or the next, willingness to enter into and faithfully keep the new and everlasting covenant.
No blessings will be withheld from faithful members of the Church who are single.
The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of hope
Hope comes with repentance and obedience.
Those who enter into and keep the covenant of marriage can receive the fullness of the glory of the Father.
If we make and keep covenants with God, the blessings associated with our covenants can extend beyond this life and be sealed upon us, or preserved, forever, becoming fruit that remains for all eternity.
To have the blessings of exaltation sealed upon us and remain after this life, we must be true to both the lateral and the vertical bonds of the covenant.
It is important to understand that to receive the blessings of exaltation, we must demonstrate that we are willing to enter into and faithfully keep this new and everlasting covenant, either in this life or the next.

Talk: Dieter F. Uchtdorf – Quorum of the 12

A Higher Joy

YES! We got an airplane reference after 3 or 4 talks without one!

Major Themes:

Notable Stories: The Wright Brothers’ first flight

Scripture References: 2 Nephi 2:26; Matthew 7:7–9;

My purpose today is not to diminish or trivialize mental health issues.
If you face such challenges, I mourn with and stand beside you
The peace He gives us is not like what the world gives.
It is better.
It is higher and holier
Joy is the very purpose of God’s plan for His children.
It’s what you were created for — “that [you] might have joy.”
You were built for this
He has not hidden the path to joy and happiness.
It is available to all.
If God Himself weeps, as the scriptures affirm He does, then of course you and I will weep as well.
Feeling sad is not a sign of failure.
In this life, at least, joy and sorrow are inseparable companions.
God has something more to give.
A higher and more profound joy — a joy that transcends anything this world offers.
It is the joy that endures heartbreak, penetrates sorrow and diminishes loneliness.
It is the nature of all earthly things to grow old, decay, wear out, or become stale.
But godly joy is eternal, because God is eternal.
Faith overcomes fear
Worldly happiness does not bless, it cannot.
It is the nature of all earthy things to grow old, decay, or become stale.
But godly joy is eternal because God is eternal.
God has something more to give.
- A higher and more profound joy — a joy that transcends anything this world offers.
It is the joy that endures heartbreak, penetrates sorrow and diminishes loneliness
Joy is like a barrel of flour or a jar of oil that will never run out
True joy multiplies when it is shared
We rarely find anything we are not looking for.
Are we looking for joy?
May we all seek and find the higher joy that comes from devoting our lives to our Heavenly Father and His beloved Son
Bring joy to others around you.
If we seek reasons to be angry, to doubt, to be bitter or alone, we will find them.
However, if we seek joy—if we look for reasons to rejoice and to happily follow the Savior, we will find them, too
- Seek and ye shall find
Life is not all full of highs, for there is opposition — and feeling sad is not a sign of failure. But there is a peaceful confidence that comes from following the Savior.
The peace He gives us is not like what the world gives.
- It is better.
- It is higher and holier.
Joy is the very purpose of God’s plan for His children.
Worldly happiness cannot last, but godly joy is eternal.
It is the joy that endures heartbreak, penetrates sorrow and diminishes loneliness
A few beginning steps on the journey of discovering pure joy include:
- Draw near unto God | I have learned that if we draw near to God and reach out to touch Him, we can indeed find healing, peace and joy
- Look for it | We rarely find something we are not looking for. Are we looking for eternal joy? Seek and ye shall find
- Bear one another’s burdens | True joy multiplies when it is shared.
As people follow these invitations and strive to walk in God’s way, they will experience “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,” even in the midst of sorrows.
You will feel your spirit lifting away from the gravity of this world.
God has something more to give.
A higher and more profound joy — a joy that transcends anything this world offers. It is the joy that endures heartbreak, penetrates sorrow, and diminishes loneliness.
It is the nature of all earthly things to grow old, decay, wear out or become stale.
But godly joy is eternal, because God is eternal.
We rarely find something we are not looking for.
Are we looking for eternal joy?
Seek and ye shall find.