President Monson speaks about pain of losing wife Frances


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SALT LAKE CITY — Addressing the Church for the first time since his wife Frances passed away, President Thomas S. Monson expressed tender feelings for his companion during a Sunday session of General Conference as the chair she used to occupy sat empty.

"Tomorrow would have been our 65th wedding anniversary," he told Church members. "She was the love of my life, my trusted confidant and my closest friend. To say that I miss her does not begin to convey the depth of my feelings."

President Monson offered hope to others who are struggling through difficult times.

"Whenever we are inclined to feel burdened down with the blows of life, let us remember that others have passed this way, have endured, and then have overcome," he said.

Other leaders encouraged church members to live their faith.

"Living the gospel and standing in holy places is not always comfortable or easy, but I testify that it is worth it," counseled Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson of the Young Women's General Presidency.


She was the love of my life, my trusted confidant and my closest friend. To say that I miss her does not begin to convey the depth of my feelings.

–President Thomas S. Monson


Preserving family time was the focus of Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve.

"Addictions or predilections, that while not inherently evil, can use up our precious allotment of time, which could otherwise be used to accomplish virtuous objectives," Elder Cook said. "These can include excessive use of social media, video and digital games, sports, recreation and many others."

Said Amanda Wirtz, a member who attended Conference: "It is really inspiring to hear reinforcement of our beliefs and our moral ground that we stand on."

President Monson closed General Conference with words of hope and encouragement to help others.

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