SAT SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

President Jeffrey R. Holland Sister J. Anette Dennis

Acting president, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Of the Relief Society general presidency

God hears every prayer and responds to each Choosing to be part of a covenant enhances
according to the path He has outlined for His and deepens “our relationship with [God].”
children. There are no limits to when, where or Baptism by immersion is symbolic of the Sav-
about what to pray, if one “ask[s] not amiss” (2 ior’s death and Resurrection. “With our baptism
Nephi 4:35). we symbolically put on Christ.”
Prayers ought to be vocal. If privacy is not The ordinance of the sacrament is symbolic of
practical, prayers should be silent utterances in Christ’s flesh and blood. “We again put on Christ
one’s heart. “If there be any time we feel not to as we make a new covenant each week.”
pray, we can be sure that hesitancy does not come Everything in the house of the Lord points to
from God, who yearns to communicate with His children at any and all the Savior and His atoning sacrifice.
times.” When unsure how or what to pray about, begin and continue “Our temple garment reminds us that the Savior and the blessings
until the Spirit guides one into the prayer that should be offered. of His Atonement cover us throughout our lives. As we put on the gar-
The Savior, though perfect, prayed to the Father often. He prayed ment of the holy priesthood each day, that beautiful symbol becomes
alone, in the company of others, sometimes standing and sometimes a part of us.”
kneeling. In fulfilling His atoning sacrifice, He prayed ever more plead- Romans 13:14 says, “Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ.”
ingly. “By keeping my covenants and obligations with God, including
With prayer, pleading and personal righteousness, “we really can wearing the garment of the holy priesthood, my very life can become
ascend to Mount Zion. … As we repent of our sins and come boldly to a personal symbol of my love and deep gratitude for my Savior, Jesus
that ‘throne of grace,’ leaving before Him there our alms and heartfelt Christ, and my desire to have Him with me always.”
supplications, we will find mercy, compassion and forgiveness at the Someone does not have to wait for a mission or marriage to make
benevolent hands of our Eternal Father and His obedient, perfectly pure temple covenants. Choose a deeper relationship with God by making
Son.” covenants with Him in the house of the Lord.

Elder Alexander Dushku Elder Ulisses Soares

General Authority Seventy Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

After a “thick darkness” enveloped Joseph To have “covenant confidence through Jesus
Smith in the Sacred Grove, he exerted all his Christ” means trusting in the quiet, yet certain,
power to call upon God before a “pillar of light” assurance of receiving the blessings that God
gradually descended upon him. The reestablish- promises for those who keep their covenants — a
ment of the Lord’s Church began with Joseph’s blessing needed amid the challenging circum-
desperate prayer and a pillar of light. stances of the day. This “holier and higher”
“Rather than sending us a pillar of light, the confidence comes as disciples of Christ make
Lord sends us a ray of light, and then another, covenants with the Lord in the temple. It fortifies,
and another.” strengthens and empowers those who keep their
These rays are continuously poured down upon God’s children. “If covenants to overcome doubt, despair, hopelessness and trials.
we have received the gift of the Holy Ghost and are striving to exercise “Such confidence is the pinnacle of our divine connection with
faith, repent and honor our covenants, then we are worthy to receive God and can help us increase our devotion to, and gratitude for,
these divine rays constantly.” Jesus Christ and His infinite sacrifice.”
Everyone experiences God’s light and truth in different ways. A Confidence through Jesus Christ is gained with humility, living a
burst of testimony may come as a spiritual impression, a joyful assur- righteous life and honoring covenants made in the temple. The Savior
ance of God’s love, the gift to recognize “tender mercies of the Lord” asks each attendee to come to the temple spiritually prepared.
(1 Nephi 1:20) or more. No single ray is strong enough to constitute a The ongoing building of temples will continue to excite, inspire
full testimony, but together, they become a pillar of light the darkness and bless the Church. Yet more importantly, as Latter-day Saints
of doubt cannot overcome. change their preparation to enter the house of the Lord, they will
“In the midst of that pillar, we too will find a loving Heavenly change their experiences in the temple, which will also transform their
Father, calling us by name, pointing us to our Savior, Jesus Christ, and lives outside of the temple. “May this transformation fill us with confi-
inviting us to ‘Hear Him!’ ” dence in our holy covenants made with God through Jesus Christ.”

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 SAT SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder Jack N. Gerard President Henry B. Eyring

General Authority Seventy Of the First Presidency

In performing the Atonement, the Savior Jesus As Saints attend the temple, they can be
Christ manifested the attribute of integrity. reminded of their eternal nature, relationship with
Living a life of integrity means being true to the Father and His Son, and desire to return to
God, to each other and to one’s divine identity. In- their heavenly home. The acceleration of temple
tegrity means not lowering standards or behavior to building under President Russell M. Nelson’s
impress or be accepted by others. It means doing leadership will allow all God’s children the oppor-
what is right and letting the consequences follow. tunity to receive the ordinances of salvation and
A life of integrity requires one to first and exaltation and to make and keep covenants.
foremost be true to God. How Latter-day Saints Frequent participation in temple ordinances
respond to the oppositional pull of the world shows a person’s true can create a pattern of devotion to the Lord and invite the Holy Ghost
character and the measure of their integrity. “Exercising integrity in our to strengthen and purify. Trials, challenges and heartaches will come
choices is an outward expression of an inner commitment to follow the to all. One can prepare to receive personal direction from the Lord by
Savior Jesus Christ.” attending the temple and remembering covenants.
Being true to others flows from the second great commandment “I bear witness that there is nothing more important than honor-
to love one’s neighbor as one’s self. Church members must rise above ing the covenants you make, or may make, in the temple. No matter
worldly expectations and “become the face of the true and living God where you are on the covenant path, I urge you to qualify and become
at all times and in all places.” eligible to attend the temple. Visit as frequently as circumstances will
Joseph and Hyrum Smith demonstrated integrity by remaining true allow.”
to the end of their lives, as well as to the light and knowledge they After the Teton Dam collapsed in 1976, when the Eyrings were
received. away from their children at the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple, President
“May we reconcile ourselves ‘to the will of God’ and develop the Eyring assured his wife all would be well with their family because of
Christlike attribute of integrity.” covenants. “I can assure you of the same truth.”

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 SAT SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder David A. Bednar Elder Massimo De Feo

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

The Lord’s admonition to “be still” (Psalm The story of a blind man named Bartimaeus in
46:10) reminds individuals to focus on the Savior as Mark 10:46-52 teaches about spiritual vision. He
the ultimate source of spiritual stillness of the soul. cried out, “Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy
The foundation of a building is what connects on me,” recognizing that Jesus was the Messi-
it to the ground, and a strong and reliable con- ah, to be born as a descendant of David. When
nection between the ground and a foundation is people told Bartimaeus to be quiet, he cried out
essential if a structure is to remain sturdy. more. At the Lord’s command to rise, he threw
Similarly, “the foundation of our lives must away his beggar’s coat and went to Jesus. He
be connected to the rock of Christ if we are to received his sight and followed Jesus.
remain firm and steadfast.” Sacred covenants Three principles can be learned from this story. “We keep a clear
and ordinances can be compared to the anchor pins and steel rods spiritual vision when we:
used to connect a building to bedrock. • “Focus on Jesus Christ and stay true to what we know to be
“Every time we faithfully receive, review, remember and renew true.
sacred covenants, our spiritual anchors are secured ever more firmly • “Leave the natural man behind, repent and begin a new life in
and steadfastly to the ‘rock’ of Jesus Christ.” Christ.
As individuals build their foundations upon the Savior, they are blessed • “Hear the voice of the Lord and allow Him to guide us.”
to “be still.” The Lord provides both sacred times and holy places to help “May we cry our testimony of Him, louder than the voices around
individuals experience and learn about this inner stillness of their souls. us, in a world that needs to hear more of Jesus Christ and not less.
“Our homes should be the ultimate combination of both sacred May we remove the beggar’s coat that we might still wear, and rise
time and holy places wherein individuals and families can ‘be still’ above the world, to a better life in and through Christ. May we get rid
and know that God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children and of all excuses not to follow Jesus Christ and find all good reasons to
Jesus Christ is the Savior.” follow Him, as we hear His voice.”

Elder Brent H. Nielson Elder José L. Alonso

Presidency of the Seventy General Authority Seventy

During his career as a trial lawyer, Elder Throughout difficult trials, people sometimes
Nielson quickly learned the importance of wonder where they can find peace and healing.
witnesses testifying in court. Similarly, “ ‘wit- The unwavering love of Jesus Christ offers hope,
ness’ and ‘testimony’ are terms that we use as healing and the assurance of His constant,
we share our knowledge and feelings about the enduring presence. This gift is available to all who
truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” reach out to Him in faith.
He bore witness of Heavenly Father, Jesus “When confronted with challenges, it’s easy
Christ, living prophets and apostles, and the to become engrossed in our difficulties. However,
restored gospel. “I testify that … there has never Jesus Christ exemplified the power of focusing on
been a better time to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ His Father, offering gratitude and acknowledging that solutions to our
of Latter-day Saints than today. I know this of my own knowledge, trials do not always lie within ourselves, but with God.”
independent of any other source, because of what I have both seen As individuals place Jesus Christ at the core of their thoughts
and heard.” and deeds, they align themselves with His outlook and strength. This
The most inspiring miracle of the Restoration is the number of adjustment doesn’t discount trials, but instead helps people navigate
faithful Church members in every land, armed with righteousness their challenges under divine guidance. “Adopting this Christ-centric
and power. All over the world, Church members keep their cove- perspective empowers us with the fortitude and insight to turn our tri-
nants, unite in their witnesses of the gospel and move forward in als into victories, reminding us that with the Savior, what seems like a
faith. major problem can become a pathway to greater spiritual progress.”
“You are the covenant children of the Father. You are disci- As Church members strive to put Christ at the center of their lives,
ples of Jesus Christ. You also know what I know because you have they will discover the strength to overcome, the courage to persevere
received your personal witness of the truthfulness of the restored and peace that surpasses all understanding. “Jesus Christ is our hope
gospel of Jesus Christ. … You and I are witnesses who testify.” and the answer to life’s greatest pains.”
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Elder Gerrit W. Gong Brother Michael T. Nelson Elder Quentin L. Cook

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Of the Young Men general presidency Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

In a world of tem- Like Helaman lead- Prior to His betrayal

pests and tribulations, ing the stripling sons of and Crucifixion, Jesus
those who love and the Ammonites, leaders Christ prayed for one-
follow God are promised and parents “can be ness (see John 17:20-
that all things will work powerful examples to 23). “Oneness with
together for their good. the youth of how disci- Christ and our Heavenly
The nature of God is “to ples of Christ live today.” Father can be obtained
bring all things together Helaman was through the Savior’s
for our good.” trustworthy, loved and Atonement.”
Because of Jesus Christ’s Atonement, He saw the potential in the Ammonite sons, Doctrine and Covenants 20 contains
not only redeems one from sin, but under- built strong relationships and counseled doctrine about the Savior’s Atonement,
stands each pain and affliction. “In time and with them, followed his leaders and kept his the plan of salvation and the ordinances
eternity, His triumph over death and hell can covenants, and was supported by parents of baptism and the sacrament. There are
make all things right.” and leaders. “Helaman helped the young no economic, race, gender or ethnicity
Faithful families and individuals around Ammonites to see how a valiant disciple of requirements for baptism — all qualifications
the world are confronting challenges while Jesus Christ lived.” are spiritual, and all people are invited to
knowing that things will work together for The restored Church of Jesus Christ “is partake of the Lord’s goodness.
good, even if they don’t know how. With organized to help the youth fulfill their great That does not mean there are no conduct
faith, “trials and sacrifices we would never purpose in these latter days.” All members requirements. “The Lord makes it clear
choose can bless us and others in ways can participate in strengthening the youth. that all have moral agency. … To receive
never imagined.” Resources include scriptures, teachings the blessings of the Savior’s Atonement, we
Faith in this promise increases as one of prophets and the General Handbook. “The must affirmatively exercise our moral agency
gains eternal perspective, understands trials entire ward will be blessed and strengthened to choose Christ and obey His command-
may be for a small moment and are part of as members focus on the rising generation.” ments.”
mortality, recognizes that affliction can be “We express our confidence in the youth One cannot control many events in life,
consecrated for one’s gain and trusts that by offering support and direction, without such as health challenges and accidents.
God doesn’t give trials to punish or judge. taking over.” For youth to experience joy and However, “on matters of principle, conduct,
Temple blessings work together for one’s growth, step back and allow them to learn religious observance and righteous living,
good. More temples are being built closer to through counseling together, choosing an in- we are in control. Our faith in and worship of
Church members. “Now, as circumstances spired course and putting a plan into action. God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, is
permit, come even more often to the Lord “Our youth amaze us with their courage, a choice that we make.”
in His holy house.” Regular temple worship their faith and their abilities. As they choose To follow President Russell M. Nelson’s
and service will bless, protect and inspire to be fully engaged disciples of Jesus Christ, admonition to gather Israel, “we need to
individuals and families. His gospel will be etched upon their hearts.” include others in our circle of oneness. …
The essence of truly belonging is to be one
with Christ.”

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Elder Shayne M. Bowen Elder Steven R. Bangerter Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus
General Authority Seventy General Authority Seventy Of the Young Women general presidency

Although many say When God created David was prepared

miracles no longer exist His spirit children, He with five stones when he
today, “I testify that mir- embedded within each battled Goliath. “What
acles have not ceased, of them a divine nature if each of David’s stones
angels are among us and eternal destiny. represented a strength
and the heavens are He blessed them with we need to be trium-
truly open.” agency and foreordained phant in our lives?”
In His earthly life, each to fulfill specific Those five stones can
Jesus Christ gave priest- missions in mortality. represent love for God,
hood keys to Peter, His chief apostle. Peter “If you remain worthy, the blessings of faith in the Savior Jesus Christ, knowledge of
and other apostles led the Savior’s Church that premortal decree will enable you to true identity, daily repentance and access to
until the apostles died and the keys of the have all kinds of opportunities in this life, in- God’s power.
priesthood were taken from the earth. cluding opportunities to serve in the Church “Our love for God and our close relation-
Those keys have been restored in these and to participate in the most important ship with Him give us the strength we need
latter days and were passed from prophet to work happening on the earth today: the to transform our hearts and more easily
prophet until President Russell M. Nelson. gathering of Israel.” overcome our challenges.”
“Through the Savior’s Church, we receive Heavenly Father desires to reveal to His Faith in Jesus Christ “means to fully trust
the blessings of the priesthood — including children their foreordained gifts and talents. His wisdom, His timing, His love and His
the power of God to help us in our lives. He will share this knowledge to those who power to atone for our sins.”
Under authorized priesthood keys, we make sincerely ask, genuinely desire to know and President Russell M. Nelson has taught
sacred promises to God and receive sacred seek to follow His will. that one’s most important identities are as
ordinances that prepare us to live in His One way is to “protect the private times children of God, children of the covenant and
presence.” of your life.” Scriptures, prayer, uplifting disciples of Jesus Christ.
Miracles often occur as a direct result of music and reading one’s patriarchal blessing On repentance, “forgiveness is possible
priesthood power. Some blessings are imme- can bring revelation and provide a safe for everyone.”
diate, some unfold gradually, and some are haven amid the storms of life. Covenants with God give people access
not fully realized until the next life. However, “As you protect the private times of your to the power of godliness. “God’s power is
“God keeps all of His promises,” always. life, your participation in the ordinances and a real power that helps us face challenges,
“If you desire the blessings of the priest- covenants of the gospel will be more mean- make good decisions and increase our
hood, including miracles and the ministry ingful. And you will more fully bind yourself capacity to endure difficult situations.”
of angels, I invite you to walk the path of to God in the covenants you make with Him, A sixth stone would be a stone of testi-
covenants God has made available to each and you will be lifted to have greater hope, mony. “Our testimony is built by personal
of us.” faith and assurance in the promises He has spiritual experiences in which we recognize
made to you.” the divine influence in our lives. No one can
take that knowledge from us.”

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Elder Matthew L. Carpenter Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf

General Authority Seventy Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Those who make and keep covenants with Life has both highs and lows because there
God will see those blessings extend beyond this is opposition in all things. Feeling sadness is not
life and be sealed upon them forever. a sign of failure. Following the Savior can help
To be exalted to the highest degree of the provide a peaceful confidence.
celestial kingdom, one must enter into marriage “The peace He gives us is not like what the
by the proper authority and then be true to the world gives. It is better. It is higher and holier.”
covenants made in that marriage. This eternal Joy is the very purpose of God’s plan for His
marriage covenant includes a lateral bond children.
between husband and wife, and a vertical bond Worldly happiness cannot last, but godly joy is
with God. eternal. “It is the joy that endures heartbreak, penetrates sorrow and
Each partner must desire to be in the marriage to keep the diminishes loneliness.”
lateral bond. To keep the vertical bond with God, stay true to temple A few beginning steps on the journey of discovering pure joy
covenants. include:
For those who remain faithful to covenants, they will receive the • Draw near unto God. “I have learned that if we draw near to God
promised blessings even if their spouse has broken those covenants. and reach out to touch Him, we can indeed find healing, peace and joy.”
To receive the blessings of exaltation, one must demonstrate, • Look for it. “We rarely find something we are not looking for. Are
either in this life or the next, willingness to enter into and faithfully we looking for eternal joy? Seek and ye shall find.”
keep the new and everlasting covenant. • Bear one another’s burdens. “True joy multiplies when it is
No blessings will be withheld from faithful members of the Church shared.”
who are single. As people follow these invitations and strive to walk in God’s way,
“The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of hope.” Hope comes with they will experience “the peace of God, which passeth all understand-
repentance and obedience. Those who enter into and keep the cove- ing,” even in the midst of sorrows. “You will feel your spirit lifting away
nant of marriage can receive the fullness of the glory of the Father. from the gravity of this world.”

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 SUN SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder Ronald A. Rasband President Susan H. Porter

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Of the Primary general presidency

Words matter. They are the bedrock of how The gift of prayer is a blessing — one can talk
humans connect; they represent beliefs, morals to Heavenly Father anytime, anywhere.
and perspectives. Words set a tone and can open First, pray to know.
minds to truth. “When you know that Heavenly Father is real
First and foremost, let the Lord’s words matter. and that He loves you, you can live with cour-
The Lord’s words come through scriptures, from age and hope. ‘Pray, He is there; speak, He is
personal revelation, promptings of the Holy Ghost listening.’”
and answers to prayer. “Believing and heeding the Wanting to know why something hard is hap-
word of God will draw us closer to Him.” pening in one’s life or why a prayed-for blessing
Second, the words of prophets matter. wasn’t received? “Often the best question to ask Heavenly Father is
“Prophets testify of the divinity of Jesus Christ. They teach His gospel not ‘why?’ but ‘what?’”
and show His love for all.” Second, pray to grow.
President Nelson has a way with words — from “keep on the cove- Heavenly Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to show the way to live
nant path” and “gather Israel” to “let God prevail” and “think celestial.” and grow to become more like Him.
Third, consider one’s own words. “Believe me, in our emoji-filled Third, pray to show.
world, our words matter.” You can pray for help to show Heavenly Father’s love to others.
Three simple phrases can take the sting out of difficulties, lift and “Share with Heavenly Father what is in your heart. As you sincerely
reassure others: “Thank you,” “I am sorry” and “I love you.” ask for His help, you will receive His Spirit to guide you. Praying every
“I promise that if we ‘feast upon the words of Christ’ that lead to day will fill you with love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. This will
salvation, our Prophet’s words that guide and encourage us, and our help you want to follow Them your whole life. …
own words that speak of who we are and what we hold dear, the powers “I invite you to pray to know Heavenly Father is there, pray to grow
of heaven will pour down upon us.” to become like Him and pray to show His love to others.”

Elder Dale G. Renlund Elder Paul B. Pieper

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

Comparing living the gospel of Jesus Christ to Trust is foundational to the success of every
kayaking in the ocean, Elder Renlund said building relationship and can be created only when two
spiritual momentum helps individuals avoid falling individuals trust each other. A relationship can-
when adversarial waves hit. The same-size wave not exist if one person trusts another completely
that a moving kayak can absorb without tipping but the other does not trust the first.
can cause a stopped kayak to roll over in the water. Heavenly Father wants to have a relationship
Likewise, making efforts to grow spiritually can help with each of His children, and that relationship
an individual avoid spiritually falling when tempta- is so close and personal that God is willing and
tions or challenges come into their life. able to share all He has. And He created a plan
Faith in Jesus Christ must be nourished daily through prayer, to make that possible. That plan included giving all of His children
scripture study, repentance and following the promptings of the Holy agency while they were tested by coming to earth.
Ghost. Honoring covenants helps individuals create a conduit to Heavenly Father knew that His children would not always make
receive God’s power in their lives. the right choices, so He provided a Savior — His Son, Jesus Christ —
Help others without judging them for their actions. Everyone is to atone for the sins of all His children. This allows them to repent
struggling, and no one earns salvation. Everyone needs all of the — a gift He hopes is used regularly.
Savior’s infinite Atonement. It is the Savior’s responsibility to heal. God is focused on the growth and progress of His children. As
The rest of God’s children have the responsibility to love and minister the master teacher and complete coach, He stretches His children
in ways that help others draw closer to Jesus Christ. to help them realize their divine potential. That means that once
Exercising faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement propels individ- someone shows trust in Him once, He will always give another
uals along the covenant path and motivates them to help others to invitation to trust Him. He will not stop providing opportunities for
also become faithful disciples of the Savior. Having a place in Heav- growth.
enly Father’s kingdom requires faithfully living the doctrine of Christ. Individuals can choose to trust God every day.

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 SUN SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder Patrick Kearon Elder Brian K. Taylor President Dallin H. Oaks

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy Of the First Presidency

The Father’s beau- Why do some receive A covenant is a

tiful plan is designed their yearned-for mira- commitment to fulfill
to bring His children cles quickly while others certain responsibilities.
home, not to keep patiently endure and wait Personal commitments
them out. “God is in upon the Lord? are essential to the reg-
relentless pursuit of Every disciple of Christ ulation of individual lives
you.” must face life’s different and to the functioning of
The purpose of trials as part of mortality. society.
this earth is to give an In the process, they learn The Church of
opportunity to learn, grow, make mistakes, to trust in God’s divine purposes, which provide Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has always
repent and return home. hope and kindle determination to carry on. emphasized a commitment to making and
Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice removes “Life’s trials ‘prove us.’ Even the Savior keeping covenants with God.
every roadblock that would separate peo- ‘learned obedience by’ and was made ‘perfect Covenants were foundational in the
ple from their eternal home. through sufferings.’ ” Restoration of the gospel. A fundamental
“Everything about the Father’s plan for “Coming to trust in God’s divine purposes history of God’s covenant promises are
His beloved children is designed to bring breathes hope into weary souls and kindles found in the Old Testament and the Book of
everyone home.” determination in seasons of anguish and Mormon. The central role of covenants was
The intent of the Father’s plan of hap- heartache.” reaffirmed in the preface the Lord gave for
piness, redemption, mercy and salvation To avoid discontent and find peace, hope the first publication of His revelations. The
is to provide all of those things to His and joy in the midst of life’s challenges, consid- early pioneers received spiritual strength and
children. er three principles. power by making covenants in the Nauvoo
One of Jesus’ most consistent invita- 1. Stronger faith comes by putting Jesus Temple before beginning their historic trek to
tions was to change and repent and come Christ first. the Rocky Mountains.
unto Him. 2. Brighter hope comes by envisioning one’s Today, Latter-day Saints have a better
“God wants for us a radical reorienta- eternal destiny. understanding of the role of covenants in the
tion of our selfish and prideful impulses, 3. Greater power comes by focusing on joy. restored Church. The Church’s growth and
the eviction of the natural man, for us to When Latter-day Saints feel overwhelmed its purpose in building temples worldwide is
‘go, and sin no more.’” by life’s tribulations, they can remember to bless the children of God through temple
The Savior goes in search of the lost these principles and the Lord’s promise in the worship and unique blessings associated
sheep until He finds them. He does not put scriptures that they “should suffer no matter of with being bound to the Savior through
up roadblocks — He removes them. afflictions, save it be swallowed up (consumed, covenants.
“Are there things we need to do, com- devoured and engulfed) in the joy of Christ.” Those who have been endowed in a holy
mandments to keep, aspects of our na- In the scriptures, the Lord promises to temple are responsible to wear a temple gar-
tures to change? Yes. But with His grace, ease burdens, “that ye may know of a surety ment beneath outer clothing, which reminds
those are within our reach, not beyond our that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their them of sacred covenants and promised
grasp.” afflictions.” blessings.

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 SUN SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder D. Todd Christofferson Elder Taylor G. Godoy

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

According to revelation in Doctrine and Cove- In times of uncertainty, pain, disappointment

nants 76, the distinguishing characteristic for the and heartbreak, people may rely more on their
inhabitants of each kingdom of glory — celestial, own abilities. This can cause them to dismiss the
terrestrial and telestial — is how they relate to “the need for Heavenly Father’s support.
testimony of Jesus,” ranging from wholehearted In a hospital room hangs the phrase “Call,
devotion to not being valiant to outright rejection. don’t fall,” meaning a patient should prevent inju-
The testimony of Jesus is “the witness of the ry that might increase existing pain. In a spiritual
Holy Spirit that He is the divine Son of God, the sense, “calling” is adopting an attitude of prayer,
Messiah and Redeemer.” For the inheritors of the knowing that a loving and merciful Heavenly
celestial kingdom, this testimony is manifest in what they are and what Father will hear.
they are becoming, as their priorities and choices are governed by the “Imagine the feelings of Heavenly Father when in each prayer we
principles and truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. make a supplication in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ. What power
Being valiant in the testimony of Jesus includes nurturing and and tenderness, I believe, are displayed when we do so.”
strengthening that testimony; being open and public about one’s Everyone will have experiences where “calling” is the answer to
witness; heeding His messengers; pursuing personal holiness; and “not fall.” Praying shows hope, but one must also take action.
encouraging others to be valiant, especially one’s family members. “ ‘Calling’ is a matter of faith and action — faith to recognize that
“My invitation is to act now to secure your place as one who is we have a Heavenly Father who answers our prayers according to His
valiant in the testimony of Jesus. As repentance may be needed, ‘do infinite wisdom, and then action consistent with what we asked for.”
not procrastinate the day of your repentance’ (Alma 34:33). … Prayers are always heard.
“Our Father wants all His children who will to enjoy eternal life with “As we pray, we can feel the embrace of our Heavenly Father, who
Him in His celestial kingdom. Jesus suffered, died and was resurrected sent his Only Begotten Son to relieve our burdens, because if we call
to make that possible.” out to God, I testify we will not fall.”

Elder Gary E. Stevenson Elder Mathias Held

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

Jesus’ two great commandments, to “love Heavenly Father gave each person agency
the Lord” and “love your neighbor,” are like the so they could learn from making choices.
two towers — or “engineering genius” — of a Sometimes people struggle due to their own
bridge. choices, and sometimes they struggle because
Loving the Lord centers on a person’s heart, of circumstances beyond their control. Either
soul and mind, and is measured in acts of way, the scriptures teach that there is oppo-
obedience. Loving one’s neighbor means loving sition in all things. And although individuals
all of God’s children regardless of gender, race can’t always choose their circumstances, they
or other differences. can choose how they react.
Just as bridge towers depend on each other, so do God’s two “We can seek to learn from the experience and ask for our
great laws. A person’s ability to follow Jesus Christ depends upon Lord’s help and support, or we can think that we are on our own
their power to live both laws with equal devotion. in this trial and that we must suffer it alone. We can ‘adjust our
However, some are so focused on keeping commandments that sails’ to the new reality, or we can decide not to change anything.
they show little tolerance for those whom they see as less righ- In the darkness of night, we can turn on our lights; in the cold of
teous. Conversely, some emphasize the importance of loving others winter, we should wear warm clothes; in seasons of sickness, we
without acknowledging that all are accountable to God. Either can seek medical and spiritual help.”
imbalance can make a spiritual bridge tip over. Individuals can trust that their difficulties, sorrows, afflic-
“So … how do we build our own bridge of faith and devotion tions and pains don’t define them. Rather, how they respond to
— erecting tall bridge towers of both loving God and loving our those trials will help them grow and draw closer to God. “It is
neighbors? Well, we just start. … It might consist of a few realistic our attitudes and choices that define us much better than our
goals to understand the Lord’s gospel more or to vow to judge challenges.”
others less. No one is too young or too old to begin.”
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 SUN SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 194TH ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder Neil L. Andersen President Mark L. Pace President Russell M. Nelson

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Of the Sunday School general presidency President of the Church

Around the world The Book of Mormon Priesthood keys

— where houses of is the “keystone” that govern “how the priest-
the Lord are “coming makes the dispensa- hood of God may be used
closer” to Latter-day tion of the fullness of to bring about the Lord’s
Saints — “there is a times different from all purposes and bless all
growing feeling drawing previous dispensations. who accept the restored
us to the house of the “While God has prom- gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Lord.” ised there will never be The keys conferred
“Amid the turmoil another general apos- to Joseph Smith in the
and temptations of the world, the Lord tasy, we need to be mindful and careful to Kirtland Temple autho-
has promised to strengthen and bless His avoid a personal apostasy — remembering, rized him — and all succeeding Presidents of
covenant Saints.” as President Russell M. Nelson has taught, the Church — to gather Israel on both sides of
Those who come worthily and prayerfully ‘We are each responsible for our individual the veil, to bless all covenant children with the
to the Lord’s house “will be armed with His spiritual growth.’ ” blessings of Abraham, to place a ratifying seal
power, His name will be upon you, His an- Individuals study the scriptures so the on priesthood ordinances and covenants, and
to seal families eternally.
gels will have charge over you, and you will Holy Ghost can deepen their conversion to Priesthood keys are what distinguish the
grow up in the blessing of the Holy Ghost.” Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Two ques- Church from any other organization on earth
In the house of the Lord “we are literally tions that could improve learning at home and enable every covenant-keeping man and
endowed with heavenly power.” Faith in and teaching at church are: “What has the woman to enjoy “incredible personal spiritual
Jesus Christ is confirmed and fortified, and Holy Ghost taught us this week during our privileges.”
Latter-day Saints are blessed with protec- study of the Book of Mormon?” and “How The temple is spiritually empowering.
tion from temptations and distractions. “We does this bring us closer to the Savior?” “Understanding the spiritual privileges made
are armed with the power of God.” The great worth and spiritual power of possible in the temple is vital to each of us
In the temple, “we take His name more the scriptures Lehi and his family experi- today.”
completely upon us. … In the temple, we enced continue today. “There has never been The temple is the gateway to the greatest
sacredly promise, through our covenants, to a people in history with the access to the blessings God has for each of His children. The
follow Him forever.” Book of Mormon and other scriptures that temple is the only place on earth where individ-
Coming to the temple with a willing we enjoy today. … The most important copy uals may receive all of the blessings promised
heart, “we grow up in the Lord and can of the Book of Mormon is our personal copy. to Abraham.
‘receive a fullness of the Holy Ghost.’ ” It is the copy that we read. … “Let us rejoice in the restoration of
It’s “through the power of the Holy “As we study the Book of Mormon and priesthood keys which make it possible for you
Ghost, we are filled with peace and joy and follow the living prophet, there will be no and me to enjoy every spiritual blessing we are
unspeakable hope.” personal apostasy in our lives.” willing and worthy to receive.”
President Nelson announced locations for
15 new temples, in Utoroa, French Polynesia;
Chihuahua, Mexico; Florianóplis, Brazil; Rosa-
rio, Argentina; Edinburgh, Scotland; Brisbane,
Australia, South Area; Victoria, British Colum-
bia; Yuma, Arizona; Houston, Texas. South Area;
Des Moines, Iowa; Cincinnati; Ohio; Honolulu,
Hawaii; West Jordan, Utah; Lehi, Utah; and
Maracaibo, Venezuela.

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