 |
| Image: The LDS Conference Center on Temple Square, Salt Lake City, UT. Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/onasill/17077928146 |
The General Women's Session aired Saturday, September 28 at 6:00pm Mountain Daylight Time (that's 5 pm here in AZ). The remaining sessions were on Saturday, October 3rd and Sunday, October 4th, at 10am and 12pm MDT each day, with the Priesthood Session at 6pm on Saturday. The Saturday afternoon session was one for the history books, as 3 new members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles were called (due to the recent deaths of Elders Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, and Richard G. Scott). The last time there were 3 vacancies in this quorum was in 1906, according to D. Todd Christofferson. Latter-day Saints believe that apostles are called by inspiration, and we sustain them as prophets, seers, and revelators.
For the past few years, rather than taking notes on paper, I've blogged my way through most or all of the sessions (I sometimes skip the Priesthood Session, because I'm not a priesthood holder and twelve-ish hours of church in the space of one week is a lot, even if I do watch four of those hours in my pajamas while eating waffles just because I can). My notes are not comprehensive, but rather reflect on whatever strikes me at the time. I try to update this post at the end of each speaker's remarks. Feel free to follow along, share, and comment!
Women's Session
Right this minute, a lot of my friends are watching the latest episode of Doctor Who. I'm anxious to watch it, too, but it will have to wait until tomorrow, because tonight I'm spending time with my sisters. Several million of them, ages eight and up, all over the world. It's pretty awesome, and I wouldn't miss it for anything.
A few minutes before the session began the First Presidency entered and took their seats, and in the close-up you could see that little trays of mints had been placed next to their seats, along with the standard glasses of water. What a delightfully Relief Society touch!
That looks like a Laurel who offered the opening prayer! Laurels are the 16-18 year-old cohort of the Young Women's program. No wonder she sounded a little nervous.
Rosemary M. Wixom
The knowledge that our life is a gift from our Heavenly Father has enormous consequence, because it means that we have within us a divine nature, and an eternal destiny. "There are two important days in a woman's life: the day she is born, and the day she finds out why" (Elaine Cannon, former RS President). It's up to us to cultivate our eternal destiny. "It comes alive when you live your life to fulfill the measure of your creation." This brings to my mind a conversation I had with a friend earlier today, in which he asked whether I thought we are "supposed to come to different conclusions about how we should live as disciples of Christ." In short, my answer is yes. While there is one Christ, one baptism, and one church, each of us are given unique gifts, and the divine nature is given different expression in each of us. Therefore my discipleship will not look exactly like yours, and that is just as it ought to be. Otherwise I would not need my sisters and brothers in the gospel, and they would not need me, and there would be no reason to strive to build Zion.
Linda S. Reeves
Preceding Sister Reeves' remarks, we watched a video about the friendship between a single sister and a young primary girl she taught. I appreciated the affirmation that even when life does not turn out how we expect or plan, we are needed, and blessed by covenants we make in the church. While mothering, even by proxy, is not in the life plan for every woman, even in the church, the compassion and nurturing spirit which characterizes motherhood is also a characteristic of Christlike living for both women and men, regardless of our life circumstances. I too cherish the time I spend with my nieces and nephews, and with other children I know. I also treasure the opportunity to nurture the testimonies and scripture literacy of the adults I teach in Sunday School, many of whom are old enough to be my parents or grandparents, and many of whom also nurture me. I do believe that as I honor my baptismal and temple covenants and strive to obey my conscience, my power to nurture and to exercise compassion are increased.
I also appreciate Sister Reeves' acknowledgement that for those for whom promised blessings are delayed, the reassurance that all things will be fulfilled if not in this life then in the next, is just too far away for comfort. She quotes Amulek who taught that "this life is the time...to prepare to meet God." That's true, and applies regardless of life circumstances. I wish more people would focus on the ways that I and my single brothers and sisters are preparing, instead of focusing on the things we're still waiting for.
Carole F. McConkie
"Sisters, in this cause, we are all valued. We are all needed.... Righteousness emanates out to the world" when we understand who we are and what we are to do. Perhaps one reason why the most important work we can do is to prepare for marriage and parenthood is because family life with all its joys and trials is a crucible for developing "a broken heart and a contrite spirit," and therefore preparing for those roles by its nature also draws us closer to Christ.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
I said to my roommate, "Listen, I'm not complaining, but it seems like President Uchtdorf speaks in the Women's Session a lot." To which she replied, "Maybe it's because he's so handsome." Yes it's true. Utchtdorf has been consistently voted "Apostle Most Likely to be Mistaken for a Movie Star" since 2004, in a retroactive poll that I just made up.
Life is full of enough difficulty that anyone can easily fall into discouragement and sadness. But it's also full of beauty and wonder and goodness, and regardless of our circumstances, we can increase our joy by consciously seeking to focus on what is good, and not only on what is hard. Yes, it's harder for some than others, and it takes time in any case. "The best things in life...take patience and work." No, I don't think we can talk ourselves out of depression. But we sure can talk ourselves into misery. Walking the path of discipleship, and seeking the companionship of the Holy Spirit, is a source of joy to me, even though it is often also difficult. The eternal joy that is the reward of those who love and serve God is not a far-off promise, for "now is part of eternity." Cultivating Christlike love doesn't always bring immediate happiness, nor does it shield us from sorrow, but I know from experience that approaching life without love and gratitude in my heart is a certain formula for misery.
That's all for now; I'll be back next weekend for the rest of General Conference.
Rosemary M. Wixom
The knowledge that our life is a gift from our Heavenly Father has enormous consequence, because it means that we have within us a divine nature, and an eternal destiny. "There are two important days in a woman's life: the day she is born, and the day she finds out why" (Elaine Cannon, former RS President). It's up to us to cultivate our eternal destiny. "It comes alive when you live your life to fulfill the measure of your creation." This brings to my mind a conversation I had with a friend earlier today, in which he asked whether I thought we are "supposed to come to different conclusions about how we should live as disciples of Christ." In short, my answer is yes. While there is one Christ, one baptism, and one church, each of us are given unique gifts, and the divine nature is given different expression in each of us. Therefore my discipleship will not look exactly like yours, and that is just as it ought to be. Otherwise I would not need my sisters and brothers in the gospel, and they would not need me, and there would be no reason to strive to build Zion.
Linda S. Reeves
Preceding Sister Reeves' remarks, we watched a video about the friendship between a single sister and a young primary girl she taught. I appreciated the affirmation that even when life does not turn out how we expect or plan, we are needed, and blessed by covenants we make in the church. While mothering, even by proxy, is not in the life plan for every woman, even in the church, the compassion and nurturing spirit which characterizes motherhood is also a characteristic of Christlike living for both women and men, regardless of our life circumstances. I too cherish the time I spend with my nieces and nephews, and with other children I know. I also treasure the opportunity to nurture the testimonies and scripture literacy of the adults I teach in Sunday School, many of whom are old enough to be my parents or grandparents, and many of whom also nurture me. I do believe that as I honor my baptismal and temple covenants and strive to obey my conscience, my power to nurture and to exercise compassion are increased.
I also appreciate Sister Reeves' acknowledgement that for those for whom promised blessings are delayed, the reassurance that all things will be fulfilled if not in this life then in the next, is just too far away for comfort. She quotes Amulek who taught that "this life is the time...to prepare to meet God." That's true, and applies regardless of life circumstances. I wish more people would focus on the ways that I and my single brothers and sisters are preparing, instead of focusing on the things we're still waiting for.
Carole F. McConkie
"Sisters, in this cause, we are all valued. We are all needed.... Righteousness emanates out to the world" when we understand who we are and what we are to do. Perhaps one reason why the most important work we can do is to prepare for marriage and parenthood is because family life with all its joys and trials is a crucible for developing "a broken heart and a contrite spirit," and therefore preparing for those roles by its nature also draws us closer to Christ.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
I said to my roommate, "Listen, I'm not complaining, but it seems like President Uchtdorf speaks in the Women's Session a lot." To which she replied, "Maybe it's because he's so handsome." Yes it's true. Utchtdorf has been consistently voted "Apostle Most Likely to be Mistaken for a Movie Star" since 2004, in a retroactive poll that I just made up.
Life is full of enough difficulty that anyone can easily fall into discouragement and sadness. But it's also full of beauty and wonder and goodness, and regardless of our circumstances, we can increase our joy by consciously seeking to focus on what is good, and not only on what is hard. Yes, it's harder for some than others, and it takes time in any case. "The best things in life...take patience and work." No, I don't think we can talk ourselves out of depression. But we sure can talk ourselves into misery. Walking the path of discipleship, and seeking the companionship of the Holy Spirit, is a source of joy to me, even though it is often also difficult. The eternal joy that is the reward of those who love and serve God is not a far-off promise, for "now is part of eternity." Cultivating Christlike love doesn't always bring immediate happiness, nor does it shield us from sorrow, but I know from experience that approaching life without love and gratitude in my heart is a certain formula for misery.
That's all for now; I'll be back next weekend for the rest of General Conference.
Saturday Morning Session
I love the music of General Conference!
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
An old proverb says, "Tell a man there are trillions of stars in the universe, and he'll believe you. Tell a man there's wet paint on the wall, and he will touch it just to make sure." The moral? It's good to seek knowledge for yourself, but often unwise to disregard the counsel and teaching of trustworthy sources. It's worthwhile to occasionally ask oneself, "is my experience of the church working for me?" Alma asked a similar question to the church in Zarahemla. But I think it matters with what intent we ask that question, and what we do about our answer. My own experience in church is often challenging, but occasionally sublime. President Uchtdorf is teaching a truth that I have learned for myself: often what makes church challenging is all the "sediment" of church programs and traditions that can make it difficult to access the plain and precious truths of the gospel, the fountain of living water that is Jesus Christ himself. But why belong to a church at all, then? Why not just believe in and follow Jesus on my own? Two reasons: first, Jesus commanded his disciples to gather together, to be a community. Second, the labor (and it is labor, however rewarding) of church membership is my school for discipleship. My private devotions are indispensable to the renewal of my spirit, but so is my communal worship. They are both difficult in different ways, and both strengthening in different ways. Yes, the gospel of Jesus Christ is working in my life, and I am grateful for it.
M Russell Ballard
Joseph SmithDavid O. McKay taught that when God makes a prophet, he doesn't unmake the man. Of course that is equally true of local church leaders. Being set apart to a stewardship in Zion entitles one to inspiration and imparts strength beyond ordinary abilities--I have experienced such myself. Yet it does not fundamentally change who one is or entirely compensate for one's personal weaknesses and foibles. I believe that God works through imperfect human beings, and I appreciate those who serve in the church despite their imperfections. It requires patience, humility, and a forgiving heart, both to lead and to be led in the church when we all continually fall short of the glory of God. It does help to seek to know, and to increase my understanding of, key gospel truths such as those Elder Ballard teaches in this talk. And we can strive to do better, even as we forgive ourselves and one another. That is how we "stay onboard the good ship Zion."
Richard J. Maynes
My friends and I often talk about the seemingly impossible task of achieving balance between work and the various commitments of our personal lives. If I want to have "balance" in my life, it must be centered on Jesus Christ.
Neill F. Marriott
Paul's declaration that "all things work together for good to those who love God" does not mean all things are good, but that God's grace can transform our lives through suffering as well as through blessings. Healthy desire and effort to improve must be coupled with trust in the grace of God, which is the power by which hearts are changed and lives are transformed.
Larry R. Lawrence
Wow, lots of converts speaking from the pulpit this morning. How lovely! Crucial question: "what lack I yet?" What's stopping me from progressing? "The Holy Ghost really does give customized counsel." No matter how far or near I am from where I want to go or who I want to become, I can take one step at a time toward it. When I examine my life, sometimes I feel overwhelmed by all I know I have to do. But it's true that "by small and simple things are great things brought to pass" (Alma 37:6). I find reassurance in Elder Lawrence's invitation and promise that the Holy Spirit will gently and generously help me to see the next step, and the next one after that. Direction is more important than speed. What a treasure is the gift of personal revelation!
Francisco J. Viñas
Yeah, I'm guilty of some of those "vanities" which can interfere with a full appreciation of and blessings from attending sacrament meeting. I can do better.
Quentin L. Cook
Elder Cook reminds us that no cause, however noble it may seem or be, ought to supersede the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet I think that I can profitably ally myself as a disciple of Christ with many noble causes. It takes a spirit of discernment to know how to navigate such relationships of trust and mutual endeavor, where we often disagree about central issues, while remaining steadfast in my principles as a member of the church. It also takes faith and courage to know when and how to step back from other commitments so that I can refocus on my discipleship. I believe it is that discipleship which enables me to be most effective in doing good in the world.
Amen to the morning session!
M Russell Ballard
Richard J. Maynes
My friends and I often talk about the seemingly impossible task of achieving balance between work and the various commitments of our personal lives. If I want to have "balance" in my life, it must be centered on Jesus Christ.
Neill F. Marriott
Paul's declaration that "all things work together for good to those who love God" does not mean all things are good, but that God's grace can transform our lives through suffering as well as through blessings. Healthy desire and effort to improve must be coupled with trust in the grace of God, which is the power by which hearts are changed and lives are transformed.
Larry R. Lawrence
Wow, lots of converts speaking from the pulpit this morning. How lovely! Crucial question: "what lack I yet?" What's stopping me from progressing? "The Holy Ghost really does give customized counsel." No matter how far or near I am from where I want to go or who I want to become, I can take one step at a time toward it. When I examine my life, sometimes I feel overwhelmed by all I know I have to do. But it's true that "by small and simple things are great things brought to pass" (Alma 37:6). I find reassurance in Elder Lawrence's invitation and promise that the Holy Spirit will gently and generously help me to see the next step, and the next one after that. Direction is more important than speed. What a treasure is the gift of personal revelation!
Francisco J. Viñas
Yeah, I'm guilty of some of those "vanities" which can interfere with a full appreciation of and blessings from attending sacrament meeting. I can do better.
Quentin L. Cook
Elder Cook reminds us that no cause, however noble it may seem or be, ought to supersede the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet I think that I can profitably ally myself as a disciple of Christ with many noble causes. It takes a spirit of discernment to know how to navigate such relationships of trust and mutual endeavor, where we often disagree about central issues, while remaining steadfast in my principles as a member of the church. It also takes faith and courage to know when and how to step back from other commitments so that I can refocus on my discipleship. I believe it is that discipleship which enables me to be most effective in doing good in the world.
Amen to the morning session!
Saturday Afternoon Session
This is going to be a historic session! I can't wait to meet three new apostles! With the growth of the global church, I'm really hoping one of them will be a POC from somewhere outside North America and Europe.
That primary choir! So sweet. Though evidently some of them are more excited than others. One girl looks like she might fall asleep at any moment. One boy's obviously wearing his dad's tie, which is much too big for him. Minimal wiggles. That conference center seats 21,200, and it sure looks like every seat is filled. It takes courage to sing before such a huge live audience, but what a thrill! I bet they'll never forget the experience.
This is it! Ronald A Rasband, Gary E Stevenson, and Dale G. Renlund have been called as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. All are native Utahns, so my hope for an apostle from South America, Africa, or Asia will just have to wait. That's OK. Things don't always happen when we want them to. I'm looking forward to hearing their messages tomorrow. I have to admit I missed most of the other sustainings and releases because I was googling these brethren.
Robert D. Hales
Young adults face difficult and increasing challenges of employment, debt, and family relationships, but the gospel can provide strength and stability that will help young adults of the church to navigate these difficulties. "Straighten up and fly right" and "never deliberately fly into a thunderstorm." To me, clear skies seem pretty scarce these days. Many of my friends, despite vigilance and careful navigation, find themselves in the midst of small and large storms. But I still believe that Elder Hales' advice about avoiding debt, pursuing lifelong learning, creating and nurturing families, and seeking great mentors, will help see us through the storms of life.
I'm feeling stung by his urging singles not to delay marriage, or to not "date all the way through your twenties," though. Those I know (and as a "mid-single" myself, I know many) who remain unmarried into their thirties and beyond for the most part did not become so because we were pursuing fun, or education, or careers, or anything else at the expense of an earnest search for a marital companion. It is exhausting to hear such continual admonishments, and small comfort to be told that if we're still single through no fault of our own, we will eventually receive those blessings we've patiently sought. It is much more uplifting to me to focus on what I can do now and in the near future to develop as a disciple, whether I must walk that path throughout my life alone or not. So I appreciate the majority of this talk.
Jeffrey R. Holland
In its divine aspect, maternal love "will range between unbearable and transcendent, over and over and over again." But motherhood doesn't always reflect the ideal image we have of it. Nor does fatherhood! I am grateful for parental love, and I do believe that, when it is righteously expressed, it approaches divine love.
I am touched by the compassion expressed and recounted by Elder Holland in describing the love of a family and of church leaders as they held close to their gay son and brother, as he struggled with confusion, despair, and trauma. I'm also touched by Elder Holland's frank assertion that the young man's sexual attraction did not, and was not expected to change, even as he demonstrated his worthiness to hold church callings, a temple recommend, and eventually return to the mission field. This message is much needed by the church, and I hope that it will prove to be yet another step toward preventing for others at least some of the confusion, despair, and trauma that this young man and his family suffered. I don't pretend that the doctrine of the family as taught by the church won't necessarily be a stumbling block to homosexual latter-day saints and those who love them, but much of the anguish that these brothers and sisters suffer is caused not by doctrine, but by failures of compassion.
Bradley D. Foster
If I could speak to Elder Foster, I would remind him that there was never a day in the history of the Earth when there was not a battle for the minds and souls of the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve. That has not changed, and will not change until the work of salvation is complete on the Earth. And in a way that's good news, because we know at least in part what to expect. And we know from past experience that the righteous influence of families are a powerful support to children, youth, and adults as they face those challenges.
Hugo Montoya
Helping others lightens our own burdens. Sorry for the shortness of my notes! I just experienced my first conference doze of the season.
Vern P. Stanfill
In the darkness of mortality, as we stay close to the light of Jesus Christ, and as we add our own feeble lights to those of our fellow travelers, we can see the way more clearly. I love this analogy.
Brother Stanfill, folks on social media are no more or less likely to have private agendas than anybody else I meet, including some of the people I meet at church. Wisdom and experience teach me that I'm more likely to find good teachers and mentors in some places than in others, but I still have to heed the counsel of John, who urged us to "try the spirits whether they are of God." Because I know what the light of God feels like, I am able to compare the lights of others to that light, in determining whether it might emanate through another person from the same source. That familiarity is a gift that I sorely need, and that without care I know I may lose; it's also something that we can all cultivate.
James B. Martino
Our actions and intents affect our ability to receive further light and knowledge, and determine whether given experiences will build faith or not. And there will be times when we may struggle through afflictions and doubts seemingly in vain. "We will all face trials and have questions." Prayer and fasting have real power to help us in such straits. The difference between murmuring and a sincere expression of doubt comes down to intent, but that isn't always evident to others, and if we're not careful we may even deceive ourselves about our own intents. For that reason, it's important to search our own hearts, be careful how we judge others' expressions of faith (or their seeming lack of it), and be careful how and to whom we express doubts and ask questions--or answer them!
Dallin H. Oaks
What a gift it is to know that because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, He knows how to succor us in our infirmities, including the many we are subject to in mortality which are not caused by any unrighteousness on our own part, as well as those which are a consequence of sin. Yes, Christ walks the halls of our temples, our homes, our hospitals, our schools, our places of employment, and even our prisons. For those who seek Him, there is no place He cannot be found. Because Christ descended below all things, He is now positioned to lift us above all things. We cannot pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps, but we can reach upward, grasp His outstretched hand, and ascend with God's help.
As the children's choir sings the closing song, I see a lot more wiggles, and it's making me smile. These kids are champs, and they sound lovely.
That primary choir! So sweet. Though evidently some of them are more excited than others. One girl looks like she might fall asleep at any moment. One boy's obviously wearing his dad's tie, which is much too big for him. Minimal wiggles. That conference center seats 21,200, and it sure looks like every seat is filled. It takes courage to sing before such a huge live audience, but what a thrill! I bet they'll never forget the experience.
This is it! Ronald A Rasband, Gary E Stevenson, and Dale G. Renlund have been called as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. All are native Utahns, so my hope for an apostle from South America, Africa, or Asia will just have to wait. That's OK. Things don't always happen when we want them to. I'm looking forward to hearing their messages tomorrow. I have to admit I missed most of the other sustainings and releases because I was googling these brethren.
Robert D. Hales
Young adults face difficult and increasing challenges of employment, debt, and family relationships, but the gospel can provide strength and stability that will help young adults of the church to navigate these difficulties. "Straighten up and fly right" and "never deliberately fly into a thunderstorm." To me, clear skies seem pretty scarce these days. Many of my friends, despite vigilance and careful navigation, find themselves in the midst of small and large storms. But I still believe that Elder Hales' advice about avoiding debt, pursuing lifelong learning, creating and nurturing families, and seeking great mentors, will help see us through the storms of life.
I'm feeling stung by his urging singles not to delay marriage, or to not "date all the way through your twenties," though. Those I know (and as a "mid-single" myself, I know many) who remain unmarried into their thirties and beyond for the most part did not become so because we were pursuing fun, or education, or careers, or anything else at the expense of an earnest search for a marital companion. It is exhausting to hear such continual admonishments, and small comfort to be told that if we're still single through no fault of our own, we will eventually receive those blessings we've patiently sought. It is much more uplifting to me to focus on what I can do now and in the near future to develop as a disciple, whether I must walk that path throughout my life alone or not. So I appreciate the majority of this talk.
Jeffrey R. Holland
In its divine aspect, maternal love "will range between unbearable and transcendent, over and over and over again." But motherhood doesn't always reflect the ideal image we have of it. Nor does fatherhood! I am grateful for parental love, and I do believe that, when it is righteously expressed, it approaches divine love.
I am touched by the compassion expressed and recounted by Elder Holland in describing the love of a family and of church leaders as they held close to their gay son and brother, as he struggled with confusion, despair, and trauma. I'm also touched by Elder Holland's frank assertion that the young man's sexual attraction did not, and was not expected to change, even as he demonstrated his worthiness to hold church callings, a temple recommend, and eventually return to the mission field. This message is much needed by the church, and I hope that it will prove to be yet another step toward preventing for others at least some of the confusion, despair, and trauma that this young man and his family suffered. I don't pretend that the doctrine of the family as taught by the church won't necessarily be a stumbling block to homosexual latter-day saints and those who love them, but much of the anguish that these brothers and sisters suffer is caused not by doctrine, but by failures of compassion.
Bradley D. Foster
If I could speak to Elder Foster, I would remind him that there was never a day in the history of the Earth when there was not a battle for the minds and souls of the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve. That has not changed, and will not change until the work of salvation is complete on the Earth. And in a way that's good news, because we know at least in part what to expect. And we know from past experience that the righteous influence of families are a powerful support to children, youth, and adults as they face those challenges.
Hugo Montoya
Helping others lightens our own burdens. Sorry for the shortness of my notes! I just experienced my first conference doze of the season.
Vern P. Stanfill
In the darkness of mortality, as we stay close to the light of Jesus Christ, and as we add our own feeble lights to those of our fellow travelers, we can see the way more clearly. I love this analogy.
Brother Stanfill, folks on social media are no more or less likely to have private agendas than anybody else I meet, including some of the people I meet at church. Wisdom and experience teach me that I'm more likely to find good teachers and mentors in some places than in others, but I still have to heed the counsel of John, who urged us to "try the spirits whether they are of God." Because I know what the light of God feels like, I am able to compare the lights of others to that light, in determining whether it might emanate through another person from the same source. That familiarity is a gift that I sorely need, and that without care I know I may lose; it's also something that we can all cultivate.
James B. Martino
Our actions and intents affect our ability to receive further light and knowledge, and determine whether given experiences will build faith or not. And there will be times when we may struggle through afflictions and doubts seemingly in vain. "We will all face trials and have questions." Prayer and fasting have real power to help us in such straits. The difference between murmuring and a sincere expression of doubt comes down to intent, but that isn't always evident to others, and if we're not careful we may even deceive ourselves about our own intents. For that reason, it's important to search our own hearts, be careful how we judge others' expressions of faith (or their seeming lack of it), and be careful how and to whom we express doubts and ask questions--or answer them!
Dallin H. Oaks
What a gift it is to know that because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, He knows how to succor us in our infirmities, including the many we are subject to in mortality which are not caused by any unrighteousness on our own part, as well as those which are a consequence of sin. Yes, Christ walks the halls of our temples, our homes, our hospitals, our schools, our places of employment, and even our prisons. For those who seek Him, there is no place He cannot be found. Because Christ descended below all things, He is now positioned to lift us above all things. We cannot pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps, but we can reach upward, grasp His outstretched hand, and ascend with God's help.
As the children's choir sings the closing song, I see a lot more wiggles, and it's making me smile. These kids are champs, and they sound lovely.
Sunday Morning Session
Thomas S. Monson
"Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12) "Let us speak to each other with love and respect" and without crude or deliberately offensive language. Cultivate compassion, and the pure love of Christ. Humility, love, and virtue illuminates the soul and radiates from one's countenance. We Mormons are different, and should embrace those differences that set us apart in the eyes of the world because of our obedience to commandments and gospel covenants. This reminds me of the saying, "Weird is just a side effect of awesome."
President Monson became visibly fatigued as his talk went on, leaning more heavily on the podium, until toward the end he was even struggling to continue speaking. He finished his message, and his counselors, President Eyring and President Uchtdorf, rose to help him back to his seat. This reminded me of Moses, who required the assistance of Aaron and Hur to uphold his hands so that Israel could prevail. I am thankful that President Monson was able to speak today.
Ronald A. Rasband
What a beautiful testimony of the power of God's love, and of our love for God and for our fellow human beings.
Gary E. Stevenson
I believe that gratitude and humility have a kind of paradoxical power. because when we truly feel grateful, and when we exercise humility, it is then that God is able to "make weak things strong" (Ether 12:27). I can sympathize with the feelings of inadequacy Elder Stevenson expressed as he assumes this mantle, because I too often feel inadequate in my church stewardships--and I too can testify of the power of the Holy Spirit to enable us to rise to our responsibilities.
Dale G. Renlund
We now have two heart surgeons serving in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: President Nelson, as well as Elder Renlund. I appreciate the diversity of expertise represented in this quorum, because it contributes to the richness of perspective that these brethren draw upon in counseling with one another about the administration of the church, as well as to the examples they draw on as they teach us in General Conference.
Nice to see an extended camera focus on the members of the congregation joining in the hymn in sign language!
Russell M. Nelson
We're seeing the fulfillment of President Kimball's prophecy that the growth of the church going into the future would be facilitated in large part by the strength and leadership of women who are drawn to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and who emanate their difference from worldly expectations in powerful ways. President Nelson declared that we need "women who can speak with the power and authority of God," who have the ability to serve in executive leadership roles, powerfully teach the truths of the restored gospel, and receive personal revelation that enables us to testify to the church and the world. He then related a tender, painful experience in which he lost a patient, causing him to despair and desire to quit practicing surgery. When he had spent a night weeping, his wife asked, "Are you done crying? Then get up, get dressed, go back to work. You need to learn more. If you quit now, others will have to painfully learn what you already know." This counsel is powerful. It applies to me right now. We need women to speak up and speak out, to contribute as full partners! Yes!
This is basically my reaction to this whole talk:
As the Sunday Morning Session of General Conference concludes with a wonderful, powerful rendition by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir of "The Spirit of God Like a Fire Is Burning", I just have to say--if you watch no other session of this conference, watch this one! The messages, the music--my heart is full!
Ronald A. Rasband
What a beautiful testimony of the power of God's love, and of our love for God and for our fellow human beings.
Gary E. Stevenson
I believe that gratitude and humility have a kind of paradoxical power. because when we truly feel grateful, and when we exercise humility, it is then that God is able to "make weak things strong" (Ether 12:27). I can sympathize with the feelings of inadequacy Elder Stevenson expressed as he assumes this mantle, because I too often feel inadequate in my church stewardships--and I too can testify of the power of the Holy Spirit to enable us to rise to our responsibilities.
Dale G. Renlund
We now have two heart surgeons serving in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: President Nelson, as well as Elder Renlund. I appreciate the diversity of expertise represented in this quorum, because it contributes to the richness of perspective that these brethren draw upon in counseling with one another about the administration of the church, as well as to the examples they draw on as they teach us in General Conference.
Nice to see an extended camera focus on the members of the congregation joining in the hymn in sign language!
Russell M. Nelson
We're seeing the fulfillment of President Kimball's prophecy that the growth of the church going into the future would be facilitated in large part by the strength and leadership of women who are drawn to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and who emanate their difference from worldly expectations in powerful ways. President Nelson declared that we need "women who can speak with the power and authority of God," who have the ability to serve in executive leadership roles, powerfully teach the truths of the restored gospel, and receive personal revelation that enables us to testify to the church and the world. He then related a tender, painful experience in which he lost a patient, causing him to despair and desire to quit practicing surgery. When he had spent a night weeping, his wife asked, "Are you done crying? Then get up, get dressed, go back to work. You need to learn more. If you quit now, others will have to painfully learn what you already know." This counsel is powerful. It applies to me right now. We need women to speak up and speak out, to contribute as full partners! Yes!
This is basically my reaction to this whole talk:
Gregory A. Schwitzer
“True disciples of Christ are not looking to make excuses for the doctrine, when it doesn’t fit the world’s current concepts.” True disciples represent the Lord, even when it is not convenient.
Claudio R. M. Costa
Keep the Sabbath day holy by telling the stories of Jesus in our homes and to our families. "The Sabbath and the sacrament become much more enjoyable as we study the stories of Christ." I have been pondering ways to improve my Sabbath observance. This counsel, more than any other counsel I've heard on the subject, resonates with me right now as something that will bless me personally. I believe that Sabbath observance should not be hedged about with many rules, as some would have it, but rather be a matter of personal reflection, preparation, and practice, coupled with regular, open-hearted communion with our local congregations. Elder Costa's counsel on Sabbath observance feels right to me. I will do it.
"There Is Sunshine In My Soul" is one of my least favorite hymns, but this arrangement and performance is beautiful. I love it. I love it a lot.
Henry B. Eyring
"The companionship of the Holy Ghost makes what is good more attractive, and makes temptation less compelling." It also gives us the power to discern truth from falsehood. I do believe that this is true, and have observed that when I am striving to be worthy of the companionship of the Spirit, my capacity to learn and to retain knowledge of all kinds is increased. But I wonder if there might be a danger of mistaking personal bias for the Spirit's witness in evaluating truth-claims. For this reason, it's not only important to seek inspiration by the Spirit, but also to remain open to correction, and to further light and knowledge. Though I am confident in many beliefs, I consider very few as settled beyond doubt. I appreciate President Eyring's reassurance to those who are listening to this message, and who struggle to feel the Holy Ghost, that they have felt its impressions, and that we can learn to recognize those impressions, and act on them, and that doing so will help us to remain worthy of future personal revelation. I also appreciate his testimony that we need spiritual knowledge as well as empirical knowledge, and that pursuing one does not preclude pursuit of the other. The habit of praying in faith and studying the scriptures enhances our ability to receive answers from the Holy Spirit over time.
Sunday Afternoon Session
This is the final session of conference, and usually the hardest one for me to remain awake for. I forgot to buy dark chocolate peanut M&Ms to eat (crunchy things help me stay awake). Plus it's a rare, cloudy day here in Arizona. So if I miss a talk, you'll know why.
The choir sings, "Our God is a God of love / Love is the greatest gift to us / Love is our greatest gift to Him." Amen to that song!
D. Todd Christofferson
Yes, it's worth pausing to consider why the Lord instituted a church at all, rather than leaving worship as a purely personal thing. It's interesting to hear Elder Christofferson historicize the patriarchal order of the church. The early organization arose from the familial structure of early society and adapted as societies became more complex than the smaller family units. Yet the local, temporal, malleable nature of church organization does not mean that everything in the church is optional. Faith must be followed by saving ordinances (though the performance of saving ordinances has changed in different dispensations), and the commandment to gather together as families and communities to build the kingdom of God remains constant. Activity in the church is necessary to a disciple life. Bear in mind two things: first, we do not strive for conversion to the church, but to Jesus Christ, which the church facilitates. Second, the family remains the fundamental unit of the church. The other appendages of the church enhance our capability to do much good in the world, to care for the poor and the needy, and take the gospel to all the world, beyond what we could do alone, or even within our families. The church is the kingdom of God on the Earth.
Devin G. Durrant
Elder Durrant urges members to develop a habit of saving--the amount matters less than the regular practice. "Small efforts sustained over time can produce significant results." He also urges us to "ponderize" the scriptures. That is, to ponder the scriptures daily, and memorize passages that have special meaning for you. The benefit of this practice is to provide a way to elevate your thoughts. I have found that I need a variety of scripture study practices throughout my life, with different practices becoming more necessary to me at different times. For me right now, picking verses out to focus on is less effectual than a deep contextual study, but there are certainly times in my life where pondering and memorizing selected verses has provided just such elevation as Elder Durrant describes--and I would imagine it would be more accessible to children and youth, as well. But I hope that members do not rely on a few familiar scripture study tools, and instead seek to master a broad range of study tools and practices.
Von G. Keetch
The talk began with a story of a visit to a beach where surfers were frustrated by a barrier preventing them from enjoying the big waves, but on closer examination with a pair of binoculars, they discovered that the barrier lay between the surfers and a school of sharks. "Don't be too critical of the barrier...it's the only thing that's keeping you from being devoured." This is a common theme in General Conferences, and in Christian sermons more broadly. Although there may be disagreements about which constraints are most necessary, it is in fact a universal principle that freedom to act cannot exist or be sustained without constraints.
Carole M. Stephens
It looked like Sister Stephens will also be talking about constraints, this time with a story about a young child resisting a seat belt. But then the talk took a different turn than I expected, as Sister Stephens talked about the different strategies she used to try to persuade her granddaughter to wear a seatbelt. Negotiation and threats did not work, but explaining the principle of safety with a sincere expression of love did! If we do not teach principles with love, those we care about will naturally resist the restraints they perceive as being imposed on them for reasons they do not understand. Cultivating trust and love is necessary to cultivating obedience. It is trust and love which motivates the kind of obedience that has the power to transform lives.
This talk greatly enhances my understanding of the principle Elder Keetch was trying to teach. The conference schedule of speakers is set far in advance, and topics are not assigned; I believe that both Elder Keetch and Sister Stephens were inspired to speak on this topic, and that we were meant to hear these messages together.
Allen D. Haynie
What a beautiful testimony of the nature and power of the atonement! "Repentance is real, and it works!" Through the cleansing and healing blood of Jesus Christ, we can be clean, we can be whole.
Kim B. Clark
It's my old university president! BYU-Idaho, represent! I hope Elder Bednar talks in this session too. "Whatever level of spirituality we now have, it will not be sufficient for the days to come.... We do not have to be perfect, but we need to be good at getting better." Practicing individual devotions, participating in church and temple service, and living according to the principles we have been taught will help us grow spiritually. What would it mean to be able to see the world around us the way the Savior sees it? How would my life change if I could? I think I see glimpses sometimes, and it is glorious.
Koichi Aoyagi
I can easily relate to the discouragement Elder Aoyagi felt as a result of his protracted struggle with infirmity, and can add my testimony of the power of such afflictions to purify the soul and cultivate compassion. Times of trial can help us turn to and trust in God rather than in our own strength.
David A. Bednar
Ask and ye shall receive! I love my BYU-I peeps. Elder Hales taught Elder Bednar that "When you cannot do what you have always done, then you only do what matters most." And Elder Bednar added, "Physical restrictions can expand vision. Limited stamina can clarify priorities." I needed this message right now. And as with Elder Keetch and Sister Stephens, it seems like a perfect pairing with the talk that came before it, expanding on the principles that Elder Aoyagi taught. Yes, imperfections and weaknesses in our leaders (and ourselves) can be encouraging and faith promoting, when we understand that it is God's grace, and our privilege, that he works through weak and imperfect people--and that therefore, if we will turn to him, he will work through us and enable us to do the work that matters most, no matter how weak and imperfect we are. Our departed apostles' lives of disciple service enabled them to bear witness of truth with authenticity and power.
Amen, and amen to this conference!
D. Todd Christofferson
Yes, it's worth pausing to consider why the Lord instituted a church at all, rather than leaving worship as a purely personal thing. It's interesting to hear Elder Christofferson historicize the patriarchal order of the church. The early organization arose from the familial structure of early society and adapted as societies became more complex than the smaller family units. Yet the local, temporal, malleable nature of church organization does not mean that everything in the church is optional. Faith must be followed by saving ordinances (though the performance of saving ordinances has changed in different dispensations), and the commandment to gather together as families and communities to build the kingdom of God remains constant. Activity in the church is necessary to a disciple life. Bear in mind two things: first, we do not strive for conversion to the church, but to Jesus Christ, which the church facilitates. Second, the family remains the fundamental unit of the church. The other appendages of the church enhance our capability to do much good in the world, to care for the poor and the needy, and take the gospel to all the world, beyond what we could do alone, or even within our families. The church is the kingdom of God on the Earth.
Devin G. Durrant
Elder Durrant urges members to develop a habit of saving--the amount matters less than the regular practice. "Small efforts sustained over time can produce significant results." He also urges us to "ponderize" the scriptures. That is, to ponder the scriptures daily, and memorize passages that have special meaning for you. The benefit of this practice is to provide a way to elevate your thoughts. I have found that I need a variety of scripture study practices throughout my life, with different practices becoming more necessary to me at different times. For me right now, picking verses out to focus on is less effectual than a deep contextual study, but there are certainly times in my life where pondering and memorizing selected verses has provided just such elevation as Elder Durrant describes--and I would imagine it would be more accessible to children and youth, as well. But I hope that members do not rely on a few familiar scripture study tools, and instead seek to master a broad range of study tools and practices.
Von G. Keetch
The talk began with a story of a visit to a beach where surfers were frustrated by a barrier preventing them from enjoying the big waves, but on closer examination with a pair of binoculars, they discovered that the barrier lay between the surfers and a school of sharks. "Don't be too critical of the barrier...it's the only thing that's keeping you from being devoured." This is a common theme in General Conferences, and in Christian sermons more broadly. Although there may be disagreements about which constraints are most necessary, it is in fact a universal principle that freedom to act cannot exist or be sustained without constraints.
Carole M. Stephens
It looked like Sister Stephens will also be talking about constraints, this time with a story about a young child resisting a seat belt. But then the talk took a different turn than I expected, as Sister Stephens talked about the different strategies she used to try to persuade her granddaughter to wear a seatbelt. Negotiation and threats did not work, but explaining the principle of safety with a sincere expression of love did! If we do not teach principles with love, those we care about will naturally resist the restraints they perceive as being imposed on them for reasons they do not understand. Cultivating trust and love is necessary to cultivating obedience. It is trust and love which motivates the kind of obedience that has the power to transform lives.
This talk greatly enhances my understanding of the principle Elder Keetch was trying to teach. The conference schedule of speakers is set far in advance, and topics are not assigned; I believe that both Elder Keetch and Sister Stephens were inspired to speak on this topic, and that we were meant to hear these messages together.
Allen D. Haynie
What a beautiful testimony of the nature and power of the atonement! "Repentance is real, and it works!" Through the cleansing and healing blood of Jesus Christ, we can be clean, we can be whole.
Kim B. Clark
It's my old university president! BYU-Idaho, represent! I hope Elder Bednar talks in this session too. "Whatever level of spirituality we now have, it will not be sufficient for the days to come.... We do not have to be perfect, but we need to be good at getting better." Practicing individual devotions, participating in church and temple service, and living according to the principles we have been taught will help us grow spiritually. What would it mean to be able to see the world around us the way the Savior sees it? How would my life change if I could? I think I see glimpses sometimes, and it is glorious.
Koichi Aoyagi
I can easily relate to the discouragement Elder Aoyagi felt as a result of his protracted struggle with infirmity, and can add my testimony of the power of such afflictions to purify the soul and cultivate compassion. Times of trial can help us turn to and trust in God rather than in our own strength.
David A. Bednar
Ask and ye shall receive! I love my BYU-I peeps. Elder Hales taught Elder Bednar that "When you cannot do what you have always done, then you only do what matters most." And Elder Bednar added, "Physical restrictions can expand vision. Limited stamina can clarify priorities." I needed this message right now. And as with Elder Keetch and Sister Stephens, it seems like a perfect pairing with the talk that came before it, expanding on the principles that Elder Aoyagi taught. Yes, imperfections and weaknesses in our leaders (and ourselves) can be encouraging and faith promoting, when we understand that it is God's grace, and our privilege, that he works through weak and imperfect people--and that therefore, if we will turn to him, he will work through us and enable us to do the work that matters most, no matter how weak and imperfect we are. Our departed apostles' lives of disciple service enabled them to bear witness of truth with authenticity and power.
Amen, and amen to this conference!
.jpg)
