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Carole Mikita reportingGordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: "We must live as true followers of the Christ, with charity toward all, returning good for evil..."
In the closing sessions of General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Gordon B. Hinckley reminded church members they must be kind and generous to all.
Today, a bagpiper joined those outside the conference center. He was playing hymns, while the street preachers kept to the free speech zones outlined by the city.
President Hinckley and other speakers talked of living in perilous times.
This was the first time in 46 years Sister Marjorie Hinckley has not attended General Conference. She is in poor health. Pres. Hinckley asked for everyone's prayers.
The protection of the family and fear of the future were themes echoed in today's meetings.
Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: "These are perilous times. But the human race has lived in peril from the time before the earth was created..."
President Gordon B. Hinckley talked of rising above self-righteousness, respecting others beliefs.
Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: "Somehow, among all who have walked the earth...we have been brought forth in this unique and remarkable season...be grateful..."
Another church leader said, the word terror is in the scriptures... but there is also hope.
President Boyd K. Packer, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: "We should not be afraid of what's ahead... Encourage our young people. They need not live in fear. Fear is the opposite of faith."
Others spoke of stable families... the necessity of equality of husbands and wives.
Elder L. Tom Perry, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: "They are on equal footing. They plan and organize the affairs of the family jointly and unanimously as they move forward."
Another talked of his grandson, recently killed in a plane crash, just three months following his marriage.
Elder M. Russell Ballard, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: "When I think of Nathan and how precious he is to us, I can see and feel more clearly how our Heavenly Father must feel about all his children. "
In conclusion, President Hinckley talked of Sister Majorie Hinckley's deteriorating health, following their trip to dedicate the new temple in Ghana, West Africa. She is 92.
Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: "We were on our way home when she collapsed with weariness. She's had a diffcult time ever since. It is a somber time for me, we have been married for 67 years this month. We've walked together side-by-side through all of these years...co-equals and companions through storm and sunshine... Women have written letters of appreciation for her from all over the world... We continue to hope and pray for her..."
President Hinckley also thanked everyone for their kindness to him and to his wife, Sister Marjorie Hinckley. He said "If the world were treated as we are treated, what a different world it would be."
