Sunday afternoon session: Changes to home and visiting teaching, new temples announced

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SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held the 188th Annual General Conference on March 31 and April 1. This blog summarizes the key points from each session.

Sunday, 06:14pm

Sunday afternoon session: Changes to home and visiting teaching, new temples announced

Significant changes to the home and visiting teaching programs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, plus the announcement of plans for seven new temples, highlighted the church’s final session of its 188th Annual General Conference Sunday afternoon. Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Newly sustained apostle, Elder Gong, led the session by talking of the importance of Jesus Christ. “Together, our covenants and our Savior’s Atonement enable and ennoble,” Elder Gong said. “They help us hold on and let go. They sweeten, preserve, sanctify and redeem us and our most precious relationships.” Elder Wong thanked church members around the world for “exercising faith, hope and charity in every footstep.” Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Soares talked about the blessing of having leaders of the church who Latter-day Saints believe are prophets, seers and revelators on the earth who seek to know God's will and do it. Through them, church members can know they are not alone in the world, despite challenges they may face.

He also talked of faith. When he was called to serve as a mission president in Portugal 18 years ago, he was concerned about receiving visas for himself and his family in time — a process that normally took months. Former second counselor in the LDS First Presidency James E. Faust asked them if they had faith that a miracle could occur, Elder Soares said. They said yes, and the visas were ultimately granted in time for him to report to his mission. President Russell M. Nelson, LDS Church president President Nelson announced changes to the church’s home teaching and visiting teaching programs. Under home and visiting teaching, members were assigned to care for individuals and families in their congregations. This was traditionally done through monthly visits to help individuals and families with their spiritual and other needs.

President Nelson said a "newer, holier approach to caring and ministering to others" will be implemented instead. The change will be referred to as "ministering." It was made possible, President Nelson said, through the "innate gifts" of the women of the church and the "incomparable power of the priesthood." Read more about the program changes at LDS.org. At the conclusion of the session, President Nelson also announced plans to build seven new temples, including one in Layton, Utah. Other temples will be in Salta, Argentina; Bengaluru, India; Managua, Nicaragua; Cagayan de Oro, Philippines; Richmond, Virginia; and a major city yet to be determined in Russia. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Holland and Sister Jean B. Bingham, general president of the Relief Society, explained how men and young men who hold the priesthood, women from the church’s Relief Society organization, as well as young women ages 14 to 18 will work together at “ministering.” Some highlights include: — Contact with those who are being ministered to won’t be defined by teaching prepared lessons, as has been standard, although lessons still may be given, as needed. — Church members will continue to visit homes as possible, but challenging conditions may preclude monthly visits. — The reporting system will be simplified. “We don’t need to know how you make contact, or where you make it or when you make it, but we care — and surely the Lord cares — that you do make it and that you bless your people in every way you can,” Elder Holland said. He illustrated the type of relationship possible between members of the church by telling the story of Brett and Kristin Hamblin of Tempe, Arizona, when Kristin collapsed and later died. One of the first people Brett called was his home teacher, Edwin. Elder Holland quoted Brett as saying, “The amazing part of this story isn’t that Edwin came when I called. In an emergency, there are always people willing to help. No, the amazing part of this story is that he was the one I thought of.” Sister Jean B. Bingham, general Relief Society president Sister Bingham also announced that young women between the ages of 14 and 18 can now serve as companions in ministering to those in the Relief Society, similar to the young men in the church their same age. "Youth can share their unique gifts and grow spiritually as they serve alongside adults in the work of salvation," she said. "Involving youth in ministering assignments can also increase the reach of Relief Society and elders quorums’ caring for others by increasing the number of members who participate." Sister Bingham said ministering can be done in a variety of individualized ways and explained what it may look like. “It looks like going for a walk, getting together for a game night, offering service or even serving together,” among other things, she said. Often simple acts of service can strengthen both the receiver and giver, she stressed. She used several examples, including one of a mother who felt alone after moving to a new area. She received what she described as a “lifeline” when a woman from the Relief Society knocked on her door, brought her some baby shoes and took her to the grocery store. “After all is said and done, true ministering is accomplished one by one with love as the motivation,” Sister Bingham said. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Uchtdorf opened his talk by saying that he searched the internet to find out what was the most important event in history. Although there have been many important days that changed the course of history, “they cannot begin to compare to the importance of what happened on that first Easter morning,” Elder Uchtdorf said. He recounted highlights of Jesus Christ’s Atonement and Resurrection. The Atonement is important, Elder Uchtdorf said, because all people are mortal and will die, and because of Jesus Christ, that death will be temporary. It also allows people the opportunity to live with God someday, as they have the chance for their sins to be erased and forgotten, he said.

Elder Uchtdorf pointed out that opinions of Jesus Christ vary throughout the world, but he encouraged those listening to become disciples of Christ. “As you accept his sacrifice, become his disciple and finally reach the end of your earthly journey, what will become of the sorrows you have endured in this life? They will be gone,” he said. Bishop Gérald Caussé, Presiding Bishop The church “is all about people,” Bishop Caussé said. He used the story of gaining approval for a building permit to construct an LDS temple in Paris, France, to illustrate the importance of individuals. Before approving the permit, government leaders investigated the church by attending a worship service and observing church members there, and asking neighbors about them. The findings were favorable and plans were approved.

Bishop Caussé talked about the importance of finding people to help and bless, and asked church members to imagine what would happen if Jesus Christ were to attend their congregation. He also reminded members that they can take the spirit of the church with them wherever they go. "The key is to follow the example of the Savior in all things," he said. "If we do that, we will naturally focus on saving individuals rather than performing tasks and implementing programs." Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles This life is the time to prepare to meet God, Elder Cook reminded the audience, as he talked about the importance of church members knowing their “divinely appointed responsibilities,” which include righteousness, unity and equality. He pointed out that the Book of Mormon illustrates the consequences of failing to keep God’s commandments. “If we as a society would contemplate the consequences of sin there would be massive public opposition to pornography and the objectification of women,” he said. Elder Cook pointed out the importance of unity among church members, and said all people are equal in God’s eyes. “Education, wealth, race or national origin are not even considered” as requirements for baptism, he concluded. — Linda Williams, KSL.com

Sunday, 02:01pm

Easter afternoon session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the closing session of the 188th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hear from church leaders as they give members guidance and testify of Jesus Christ. During this weekend’s conference, the church has sustained a new prophet, heard counsel from him and his counselors, called two new apostles, sustained a new Young Women general presidency, and restructured adult priesthood quorums. Follow along with this blog, watch live and join the conversation in the comments.

Sunday, 12:56pm

Easter morning session: Focus on personal revelation, helping those in need

SALT LAKE CITY — Listening to the Spirit of the Holy Ghost for personal revelation was the resounding theme during the Sunday morning session of general conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Speakers also taught church members how their testimony, or spiritual knowledge, of Jesus Christ can bless the lives of people in need. Elder Larry Y. Wilson of the Seventy: Elder Wilson spoke about using the Holy Spirit to specifically guide one’s life. He told the story of Ensign Frank Blair who served on a transport ship during the Korean War. The ship was too small to have a chaplain so the captain asked Blair to be the unofficial chaplain because he was a man of faith respected by the crew. One night, the ship was caught in a typhoon with waves 45 feet high. One of the three engines stopped working and the captain woke up Blair to ask him to pray for the ship. Instead of just praying for the ship to work, Blair prayed to know what he could do to help the ship. He was prompted to speak to the captain in the bridge. He found out the captain and engineer were trying to figure out how fast to run the remaining two engines, one of which was only functioning at 50 percent. Blair went and prayed again to know what he could do to help the engine problem. He was prompted to go onto the deck of the ship. Using a lifeline, Blair walked around the deck during the storm and noticed only one propeller was working. After observing this, he prayed again and felt he should tell the captain to slow down the engines. The captain was surprised by the suggestion but listened to Blair’s advice. Just two hours later, the good engine gave out. With half power in the remaining engine, the ship "limped into port." The captain told Blair if they had not slowed down the engine, it would have given out in the middle of the storm, they would have lost power to steer and the ship would have overturned. Although this was a dramatic example, Elder Wilson told those listening that they too can learn how to navigate storms in their own lives.

“Likewise we might ask, ‘Lord, what do I need to do to be part of the solution?’” #ElderWilson | #LDSconf pic.twitter.com/u1aM2Fbbs9
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

First, he said, those who want to be guided by the Holy Spirit should be obedient and worthy to receive revelation. Second, they should ask what they can do to solve the problem they face. Third, they should learn in calm periods of life how to identify and follow the Holy Ghost, so they will be prepared when figurative storms arise.

“When you feel far from God, you need only make the decision to turn from sin and face the Savior, where you will find Him waiting for you, His arms outstretched.” #ElderWilson | #LDSconf
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

Relying on the spiritual strength of others is not enough, he said. Members of the church must also be guided by the Holy Ghost in order to stay strong enough to remain on the path back to Heavenly Father. Sister Reyna I. Aburto, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency: Sister Aburto described the journey monarch butterflies make every year and how they are “master navigators,” using the position of the sun to determine the direction they need to go. She explained that a group of butterflies is called a kaleidoscope, and although butterfly each is different, “they work together to make the world a more beautiful and fruitful place.”

“Like the monarch butterflies, we are on a journey back to our heavenly home where we will reunite with our Heavenly Parents.” #SisAburto | #LDSConf pic.twitter.com/9w3RCXYDgk
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

She compared the journey of monarch butterflies with those who are on a journey back to Heavenly Father. She said God has given each divine attributes, and “if we knit our hearts together, the Lord will protect us … and make us into a beautiful kaleidoscope.” The Lord commands his people to “be one,” she said. In the biblical account of Acts, she added, there is an inspiring pattern shown by the individuals who were followers of Christ: they acted "with one accord." Faithful individuals in the scriptures testified of Jesus Christ and ministered to each other, Sister Aburto said. In return, they were blessed with the Holy Ghost, miracles took place, the church grew and there was no contention. Sister Aburto said those individuals were united because they knew the Lord personally. As members of the church work on growing close to Jesus and knowing him, they "will have the determination to be one in the kaleidoscopes of our families, wards and communities; and we will minister to each other 'in newer, better ways.'" Sister Aburto said she has seen this unity in the LDS Church recently when calls for help came during the Houston flood, earthquakes in Mexico and Haitian refugees who fled to Santiago, Chile. Everyone's path is different, but everyone walk together, Sister Aburto said. Members of the church should continue their journeys in purpose like the monarch butterflies Elder Massimo De Feo of the Seventy: Elder De Feo spoke on how pure love is a sign of and requirement for every true disciple of Jesus Christ. Elder De Feo related a story of when his mom was sick with cancer and he worried about her suffering, knowing she was going to die. Even in her frail state, his mom, who was not a member of the LDS Church, asked Elder De Feo how to pray to Heavenly Father. She then said a prayer, not for herself, but for her son. He couldn’t understand why his mom, who was in pain, was praying for him but said the answer of why came to his mind: pure love. His mother loved her son enough to forget any pain or suffering she was going through. He shared that Jesus Christ suffered an immense amount of pain in the Garden of Gethsemane. Why did he do this? Because of his pure love for everyone, Elder De Feo said.

“The gospel of Jesus Christ is centered on the love of the Father and the Savior for us and our love for them and for one another.”#ElderDeFeo | #LDSconf pic.twitter.com/LK8ueWBCR5
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of love, he said, and on this Easter Sunday, those listening should remember the love Jesus has for them and show it to everyone in their lives. Elder Claudio D. Zivic of the Seventy: How can members of the church endure all the pains and trials through their lives? They need to keep an eternal perspective, Elder Zivic said. Church members promised to take the name of Jesus Christ upon themselves when they were baptized. Attendance at an LDS sacrament meeting — where church members worship and remember Jesus and renew the covenants they made with God — is a key way members can evaluate their standing with Christ. "Partaking of the sacrament is the most important thing we do on the Sabbath Day," Elder Zivic said. Elder Zivic shared a story about when he was on vacation a few years ago and went kayaking in the ocean. After a few minutes, a wave overturned his kayak. With a great deal of effort, he managed to turn it back upright. As he continued to paddle, another wave overturned him just a few minutes later. He turned back upright again and kept trying to paddle forward, but his kayak kept overturning. Finally, someone who understood kayaking told him there was something wrong with his kayak. They discovered there was a crack in the shell causing water to fill the kayak, making it impossible to control. Elder Zivic said people move through life with sins that, like the crack in the kayak, impede spiritual progress. The cracks in each person's life need to be dealt with, he said. Obedience gives each strength to overcome sin. Elder Zivic gave a five-step formula for members of the church who are working to endure faithfully through their lives: 1. Daily, pray and read the scriptures 2. Weekly, partake of the sacrament with what a Latter-day Saint scripture refers to as a "broken heart and contrite spirit" 3. Pay tithing and a monthly fast offering (a voluntary donation that is given to help the poor) 4. Every year for youth, two years for adults, renew the recommend that allows them entrance into the LDS temples 5. Serve in the work of the Lord President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency Everyone experiences tragedy during which they need the comfort and assurance of the Spirit, President Eyring said. He said one of the first times he felt this need was when his mother was in the hospital. He watched with his father as his mother took her last few breaths. “Her face was smiling as the pain left,” President Eyring said. After a few moments, his father said, "A little girl has gone home." His father seemed to be at peace, President Eyring said. He noticed his father had received the promise that many others have: "that they may always have his Spirit to be with them.” President Eyring petitioned members to increase their desire and ability to receive, or listen to and heed, the Holy Ghost, the third member of the Godhead. In order to receive Christ’s spirit, he said, members of the church must “always remember (Jesus Christ) and "keep his commandments" as church members covenant to do during baptism. On Easter, President Eyring said, Christians remember that Christ rose from the tomb and appeared first to Mary. Two other disciples who saw the resurrected Christ pleaded with him to abide with them so they could be in his holy presence. Members of the church have a promise to always have the Holy Ghost with them in addition to true directions on how to claim that gift, President Eyring said.

"The Father is at this moment aware of you, your feelings, and the spiritual and temporal needs of everyone around you." @EyringHB #LDSconf pic.twitter.com/GusR9NMfgQ
— The LDS Church (@LDSchurch) April 1, 2018

Joseph Smith’s experiences offer a guide on how to obtain this gift, President Eyring said. He was humble enough to recognize he didn’t know which church was the true church, then went and prayed to God to know what to do. Then, God showed him that the church needed to be restored. The Holy Ghost comforted him and guided him throughout the Restoration. He obeyed the spirit even when it was difficult and accepted correction and comfort, President Eyring said. This guide can be broken down into four steps: 1. Be humble before God 2. Pray with faith in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ 3. Obey exactly 4. Pray to know the needs and hearts of others who need help President Eyring concluded by saying that inspiration from the Spirit helps each minister to others in need for the Lord. Those who ask with real intent for inspiration in prayer and will receive it in the Lord’s way and time, he added. President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency President Oaks said he was grateful to speak on Easter Sunday and join with Christians everywhere in celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Resurrection is a pillar of faith for members of the church, he added. Church members believe a similar resurrection will come to everyone who is born on earth, and the Resurrection gives each a “lively hope." In the Book of Mormon, Alma taught his son that by small and simple things, great things are brought to pass. Members of the church, he said, are taught small and simple things in the gospel. President Oaks said he saw the power of small and simple things when he was on a walk one day. A thick and strong concrete sidewalk was cracking. He asked: Was it a result of a powerful force from beneath? No, it was the result of a small, slow growth of roots from a nearby tree. The strong sidewalk was cracked over time.

“Small acts of disobedience or minor failures to follow righteous practices can draw us down toward an outcome we have been warned to avoid.”#PresOaks | #LDSConf pic.twitter.com/vhEKcBKN0z
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

So is the power of small and simple things of the gospel such as praying, reading scriptures, seminary attendance for youth and institute for young adults, he said. These practices may be small and simple but result in powerful spiritual uplift and growth. Another source of spiritual growth is repentance, he said. Members of the church can evaluate their lives to see where they can make improvements. He quoted former LDS Church President Howard W. Hunter who said, “Frequently it is the commonplace tasks that have the greatest positive effect on the lives of others, as compared with the things that the world so often relates to greatness.” “Seemingly insignificant” decisions made every day, such as what people choose to watch on television or read on the internet, can shape testimonies and lives, President Oaks said. They can either uplift or be destructive.

#PresidentOaks | #LDSConf pic.twitter.com/V9271SLTOC
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

The small and simple things of the gospel must be done every day in order to help church members bring great things to pass, he concluded. These will also help members to stay on the covenant path. President Russell M. Nelson, president of the LDS Church President Nelson related to church members that a majority never rules in the meetings of the First Presidency and apostles — they pray and talk with one another until they are united.

“How we miss President Monson! We honor his life and his legacy. A spiritual giant, he left an indelible imprint upon all who knew him and upon the Church that he loved.” #PresNelson | #LDSconf pic.twitter.com/phWOYNunuY
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

He invited members of the church to seek personal revelation and ask the Lord what is missing from their live. "Does God really want to speak to you? Yes!" President Nelson said. "You don’t have to wonder about what is true. You don’t have to wonder whom you can safely trust. Through personal revelation, you can receive your own witness that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that Joseph Smith is the prophet of this dispensation, and that this is the Lord’s church.” Members of the church, he said, must learn to receive revelation in order to stand firm in a world that is “complex and increasingly contentious.” Members cannot survive spiritually without the constant influence of the Holy Ghost. He asked members to increase their capacity to receive revelation and to "choose on this Easter Sunday" to hear the voice of the spirit. “With Moroni, I exhort you on this Easter Sabbath to ‘come unto Christ, and lay hold upon every good gift,’ beginning with the gift of the Holy Ghost, which gift can and will change your life.”

"Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions you are prompted to take." @NelsonRussellM pic.twitter.com/JJmAeVnL0T
— The LDS Church (@LDSchurch) April 1, 2018

— Tracie Snowder, KSL.com

Sunday, 09:36am

Easter morning session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the Easter morning session of the 188th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hear from church leaders as they give members guidance and testify of Jesus Christ. On Saturday morning, LDS members sustained a new prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, and two new apostles, Elders Gerrit W. Gong and Ulisses Soares. Church leaders announced significant restructuring to the male-only groups at the local level of the church Saturday evening during the Priesthood session. Follow along with this blog, watch live and join the conversation in the comments.

Saturday, 08:45pm

'Significant restructuring' of church's priesthood quorums designed to help Mormon men serve

SALT LAKE CITY — In his first formal address after being sustained as president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Russell M. Nelson announced a significant restructuring to male-only groups at the local level of the church. President Nelson announced during Saturday evening’s priesthood session of the 188th Annual General Conference that all adult male members of each congregation will be combined into one single elders quorum. Traditionally, each congregation, or ward, was split into an elders quorum and a high priests group. That shift is no more. “Tonight we announce a significant restructuring of our Melchizedek priesthood quorums to accomplish the work of the Lord more effectively,” said President Nelson, who was sustained earlier Saturday in a 'solemn assembly' of the church. “These adjustments are inspired of the Lord. As we implement them, we will be even more effective than we have ever been previously. We are engaged in the work of Almighty God.” President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the church’s First Presidency, said the conference was already historic for being the first in President Nelson’s tenure. Saturday night’s announcement made it the more so. “President Nelson has announced an inspired step forward in the Lord’s organized plan for his church,” President Eyring said. “That plan includes a new structure for priesthood quorums in wards and stakes so that we may better fulfill our priesthood responsibilities. Those responsibilities all have to do with our priesthood care of our father’s children.”

VIDEO: “We have felt a pressing need to improve the way we care for our members.” - @NelsonRussellM pic.twitter.com/P5i4sYait0

— Mormon Newsroom (@MormonNewsroom) April 1, 2018 The change is designed to help those members of the church who live in areas where numbers of male members are smaller than what may occur in densely populated areas like Utah. “Some of you serve where the church has been established for generations. Others serve where the church is relatively new,” President Nelson said. “Regardless of your individual circumstances, each of you is a member of a priesthood quorum with a divine mandate to learn and to teach; to love and to serve others.” In the end, the purpose is to serve, President Nelson added. “Brethren, there are doors we can open, priesthood blessings we can give, hearts we can heal, burdens we can lift, testimonies we can strengthen, lives we can save and joy we can bring into the homes of the Latter-day Saints — all because we hold the priesthood of God,” he said. Elder D. Todd Christofferson, a member of the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said current presidencies for both elders quorums and high priests in each ward will be immediately disbanded. A new presidency will be selected by the leader of each stake from the new combined group of elders and high priests in the congregation. “I cannot adequately express how excited I am to contemplate the increasingly vital role that elders quorums will play in the future,” Elder Christofferson said. “The wisdom, experience, capacity and strength that will be found in these quorums portend a new day and a new standard of priesthood service across the church.”

"Let us each use this opportunity to reflect and improve our lives to better align with His will." #ElderRasband | #LDSConf pic.twitter.com/22LMDQZupU
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

The changes could reduce the number of some church meetings for male members, and will provide “greater flexibility and availability” for leaders to make assignments for each congregation, said Elder Ronald A. Rasband, also a member of the church’s Quorum of Twelve Apostles. “The annual meeting of all ordained high priests in the stake will no longer be held,” Elder Rasband said. “However, the stake presidency will continue to hold an annual meeting of the stake high priests quorum, as has been announced today.” Young male members of each ward also have a role to play in the new quorum structure, said Brother Douglas D. Holmes, of the church’s Young Men general presidency. “Young men, God has a work for you to do,” Brother Holmes said. “Your Aaronic Priesthood ordination is central to helping his children receive Christ’s atoning power. I promise as you put these sacred duties at the center of your life, you will feel the power of God as never before.”

“Tonight I invite you literally to rise up with me in our great eternal brotherhood.”#PresNelson | #ldsconf pic.twitter.com/uIxjnNFNvE
— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 1, 2018

— Sean Walker, KSL.com

Saturday, 06:32pm

President Nelson announces change to congregations' Melchizedek priesthood quorums

In his first formal address after being sustained as president of the LDS Church, President Russell M. Nelson announced a significant restructuring to male-only groups at every level of the church. President Nelson announced during Saturday evening’s priesthood session of the 188th Annual General Conference that all adult male members of each congregation will be combined into one single elders quorum. Traditionally, each ward, or congregation, was split into an elders quorum and a high priest group. That shift is no more. “Tonight we announce a significant restructuring of our Melchizedek priesthood quorums to accomplish the work of the Lord more effectively,” President Nelson said. “These adjustments are inspired of the Lord. As we implement them, we will be more effective than we have been previously.” — Sean Walker, KSL.com

Saturday, 05:55pm

Priesthood session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the priesthood session of the 188th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with discourses aimed at male members of the church age 12 and older. The church recently sustained a new prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, called two new apostles, and released and sustained a new Young Women general presidency earlier Saturday. Follow along on the live blog, and join the conversation in the comments below.

Saturday, 05:48pm

Saturday afternoon session: Meekness, sacrifice, Family Home Evening

SALT LAKE CITY — Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared a variety of messages in the second session of the church’s twice-annual general conference at the LDS Conference Center Saturday morning. The speakers mentioned everything from meekness and sacrifice to Family Home Evening — an LDS Church tradition that is meant to bring families together each week. The following are synopses of each speaker’s remarks: Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: During a perilous period of war described in the Book of Mormon — a book of scripture LDS faithful believe is an account of Jesus Christ’s ministry in the Americas — the captain of a group of armies sent a letter to the governor of the land. He was angry with the governor for failing to provide adequate support for the army and accused the governor of thoughtlessness, slothfulness and neglect. The governor could have been offended and resented the captain for his inaccurate allegations, but he did not, Elder Bednar said during the first address of the Saturday afternoon session of general conference. Instead, the governor wrote back to the captain, explaining why he was unable to send the needed help. He was an example of meekness, Elder Bednar said. Meekness is a defining attribute of Christ and is distinguished by righteous responsiveness, willing submissiveness and strong self-restraint, Elder Bednar said.

"Meekness [is] the foundation from which all spiritual capacities and gifts arise." @BednarDavidA pic.twitter.com/32IfFCiSSO

— The LDS Church (@LDSchurch) March 31, 2018 While humility denotes dependence upon God and the constant need for His guidance and support, meekness is being able to learn from people who may seem less capable, experienced, or educated, or who may not hold important positions, he noted. “The Savior's meekness in this eternally essential and excruciating experience demonstrates for each of us the importance of putting the wisdom of God above our own wisdom,” Elder Bednar said. Elder Taylor G. Godoy of the Seventy: A few years ago, friends of Elder Taylor G. Godoy had a baby named Brigham. Soon after his birth, Brigham was diagnosed with a rare condition called Hunter syndrome, meaning he would have a short life. One day while Brigham and his family were visiting LDS temple grounds, Brigham said, “One more day.” The next day, Brigham died, according to Elder Godoy.

One More Day. pic.twitter.com/MDRmSqTcUH

— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) March 31, 2018 Elder Godoy said he has since visited Brigham’s grave a few times, and each time contemplates the phrase "one more day.” He often wonders what the phrase would mean in his life and what effect it would have if he knew he only had one more day. He often contemplates how he would treat his wife and children, how patient or polite he’d be or how he’d take care of his body. Elder Godoy believes that each person will, at some point, have a “one more day” experience. It is then that they will learn the true meaning of sacrifice, he said. Those who sacrifice will receive meaning and blessings in their lives in three ways, he remarked. First, personal sacrifice will strengthen and give value to things sacrificed for. Second, sacrifice for others will result in blessings for all. Third, any sacrifice made will seem small compared to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson, former Young Women general president: Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson directed her message to the young women of the LDS Church soon after being released as the Young Women general president, the leader of girls ages 12 to 17. She spoke of the worth and value the young women of the church offer. Each person has something important to contribute and has unique talents and abilities that help move the work along, she said. While it may not be obvious to the young women of the church, they have covenant responsibilities “to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that (they) may be in, even until death,” Sister Oscarson said, quoting a passage of LDS scripture.

“Today…I talk about the young women of the church, who are equally needed and essential in accomplishing the work of the Lord in their families and in His church.”#SisOscarson | #LDSConf pic.twitter.com/1V6N5u6ltP

— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) March 31, 2018 Young women have opportunities to fulfill these responsibilities in their congregations and when they serve in class presidencies, on youth councils and in other callings, she remarked. Sister Oscarson said church leaders have noticed that many more of the young women are struggling with issues of self-worth, anxiety, high levels of stress and depression. She suggested that those feeling overwhelmed and discouraged should turn their thoughts outward to think of how to serve others. “Turning your thoughts outward, instead of dwelling on your own problems, may not resolve all of these issues, but service can often lighten your burdens and make your challenges seem less hard. One of the best ways to increase feelings of self-worth is to show, through our concern and service to others, that we have much of worth to contribute,” she said. Elder Taniela B. Wakolo of the Seventy: LDS faithful believe an ordinance is a sacred, formal act performed through those who have the authority of the priesthood, which LDS faithful believe is the authority of God. They believe ordinances one must participate in that are essential to salvation include baptism, confirmation, ordination to the priesthood and marriage in the temple. Elder Wakolo spoke of the importance of receiving these ordinances. This life is the time to prepare to meet God, he said, paraphrasing an LDS scripture. Elder Wakolo shared the following story as an example: "One Sunday, after attending church with her three young children, Bonnie said to John, who was not a member of the Church, 'I cannot do this on my own. You need to decide whether you come to my church with us or you choose a church that we can go to together, but the children need to know that their dad loves God too.'”

"Receiving the sacred ordinances and honoring the associated covenants fill us with marvelous light." #ElderWakolo #LDSconf pic.twitter.com/PgW5ElG2rI

— The LDS Church (@LDSchurch) March 31, 2018 For the next several decades, John attended church with his family, often serving in the organization and playing the piano. After 39 years, he was baptized and sealed to his family in the temple — an ordinance LDS faithful believe allows families to be together forever. Elder Wakolo invited members to think about what ordinances they still need to receive and promises to the Lord they need to keep. He promised members that participating in ordinances and honoring the promises that come with those ordinances will bring light and protection to their lives. Elder Devin G. Durrant, First Counselor in the Sunday School General Presidency: For members of the LDS Church, Monday night is a time to come together and learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ while having fun as a family. The members often call this tradition “Family Home Evening.” Brother Devin G. Durrant spoke of the importance of this tradition as one of the ways to teach children correct principles and offer loving counsel. Even when children grow and become parents themselves, parents are not released from the calling as their children’s teachers, he said.

“As parents cherish each other and offer righteous examples, children are eternally blessed.” #BroDurrant | #LDSConf pic.twitter.com/VQpostQDRj

— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) March 31, 2018 Other ways to teach children are through family prayer and scripture study, he said. Elder Durrant enjoys praying for his children by name and expressing to God how beloved they are to him. Scripture study is a time to help children gain a deep-rooted love of the gospel. Parental teaching is like being an on-call physician, brother Durrant said. Parents may never know when the opportunity will present itself, but being an example is one of the best ways to show children how they too should act, he said. Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: In 1999, a young man named Todd collapsed from a ruptured blood vessel, Elder Dale G. Renlund said. While he and his family were members of the church, they had not been sealed together as a family. On the last night of Todd’s life, his mother leaned in and whispered to him that if he had to go, she would make sure they were sealed together. The next morning, Todd’s heart was transplanted into Elder Renlund’s patient, Rod. Several years later, Rod represented Todd as a proxy in the LDS temple sealing ritual that binds families together. Soon after that, Elder Renlund met Todd’s family while sealing Rod in the temple to his new bride. “Rod said (to Todd’s mother), ‘This is Elder Renlund. He was the doctor who took care of your son’s heart for so many years.’ She crossed the room and embraced me. And for the next several minutes there were hugs and tears of joy all around,” Elder Renlund said. Elder Renlund then urged church members to do their family history — work that LDS members do to find out more about their ancestors and perform temple work for them — including sealing their ancestors and their families who did not have the opportunity to attend the temple in their own lifetimes. Family history and temple work is not only for the dead but blesses the living as well, he said. It provides the power to heal that which needs healing. — Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 02:09pm

New Young Women Presidency, members of the Presidency of the Seventy called

LDS Church officials released the church's Young Women general presidency Saturday afternoon, including Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson, president, Sister Carol F. McConkie, first counselor, and Sister Neill F. Marriott, second counselor. The women served as leaders over the church's young women ages 12 to 17. Sister Bonnie H. Cordon was called as the new Young Women general president after being released as the first counselor in the Primary general presidency. Sister Michelle D. Craig was called as first counselor and Sister Becky Craven as second counselor of the Young Women program. Sister Lisa Harkness was called as the new first counselor in the Primary general presidency to replace Sister Cordon. For more information about the lives of the new Young Women and Primary leaders, visit the Mormon Newsroom.

"With the sustaining that has just taken place, we now have 116 General Authorities. Nearly 40% were born outside the United States."#PresidentOaks | #ldsconf

— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) March 31, 2018 Elder Carl B. Cook and Elder Robert C. Gay were called as new members of the Presidency of the Seventy. More information on the eight new general authority seventies called can be found on Mormon Newsroom here.

Saturday, 01:48pm

Second session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the second session of the 188th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hear from church leaders as they give members guidance and testify of Jesus Christ. LDS faithful recently sustained a new prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, and two new apostles, Elders Gerrit W. Gong and Ulisses Soares. Watch general conference proceedings live:

Saturday, 02:02pm

Saturday morning session recap: Forgiveness, charity and learning from failure

SALT LAKE CITY — Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints focused on simple truths during the first session of the church’s twice-annual general conference at the LDS Conference Center Saturday morning. The speakers shared messages of forgiveness, charity and the importance of learning from failure. Several apostles also spoke of the calling and responsibility of the LDS Church's new prophet, President Russell M. Nelson. The following are synopses of each speaker’s remarks: Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: While LDS Church members have many demands, concerns and assignments, Elder Ballard spoke of the importance of focusing their religious worship on Jesus Christ and his ministry. “We must keep Christ as the center of our lives at all times and in all places,” he said. Jesus commanded his disciples to be faithful and succor the weak, lift up the hands that hang down and strengthen the feeble knees, he said.

#PresBallard | #ldsconf pic.twitter.com/VPmfDdrIkx

— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) March 31, 2018 “This is the Church in action! This is pure religion! This is the gospel in its true sense as we succor, lift (and) strengthen those in spiritual and temporal need!” Elder Ballard said. The apostle encouraged church members to serve in any capacity they can, including running for office or volunteering in their community. He said there are many opportunities to serve without an official assignment. Elder Brian K. Taylor of the Seventy: Elder Taylor told the story of his friend Jen who, as a teenager, caused a serious car accident that killed the other driver. Jen felt exquisite pain and had a difficult time coping with the fact that someone had lost their mother because of her, he said. In order to survive, Jen hid her feelings and became distant and numb, he said. A year later, an inspired counselor invited her to write the phrase ‘I am a child of God’ and to say it 10 times daily, Elder Taylor said. Jen said writing the words were easy, but saying them was difficult. After several months, Jen was able to complete the task and pour out her soul to God. Understanding one's relationship to God as his child is crucial in overcoming difficult trials, Elder Taylor noted. “That every one of us might truly understand and cherish our noble birthright as a child of God in coming to know him, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom he hast sent is my fervent prayer,” he said. Elder Larry Echo Hawk of the Seventy: One December night, Elder Echo Hawk received a call from his sister informing him that their brother had been killed by a drunk 20-year-old driver in a car crash. During the court process for the young man who had killed Elder Echo Hawk’s brother, the young man was found guilty of vehicular manslaughter. The drunk driver’s parents were weeping on a nearby bench, and Elder Echo Hawk’s sister went to them to console them and offer words of forgiveness. That outreach of forgiveness in those moments caused his own heart to soften, Elder Echo Hawk said. It opened a pathway to healing and over time, he said he learned how to have a forgiving heart. The church leader spoke of the importance of forgiveness, and of learning how to forgive others. He reminded church members that those who forgive will be forgiven by God. “We can all receive unspeakable peace and partnering with our Savior as we learn to freely forgive those who have “trespassed against” us. This partnering brings the Savior’s power into our lives in an unmistakable, and never-to-be-forgotten way,” Echo Hawk said. Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Elder Gary E. Stevenson spoke about the process of calling a new prophet and the opportunity members have to follow his guidance. He spoke of the natural sadness one feels as a beloved prophet passes on, but reminded members of one of the great blessing it is for Latter-day Saints to have the calling and sustaining of a living prophet on the earth. The period of time between the death of a prophet and the reorganization of the First Presidency is referred to as an “apostolic interregnum,” Elder Stevenson noted. The new prophet is then called during a meeting with all the other apostles and sustained during a solemn assembly — a sacred, sober and reverent occasion where church members assemble under the direction of the First Presidency.

“When I envision a Christlike heart in daily practice, I see President Nelson. I have not met anyone who exemplifies this trait at a higher level than him.” #ElderStevenson | #ldsconf pic.twitter.com/NRpDYPms9t

— LDSGeneralConference (@ldsconf) March 31, 2018 The apostle then spoke of President Nelson and his divine calling as well as his professional accomplishments as a world-renowned heart surgeon. “President Nelson has an exceptional way of teaching others and offering correction in a positive, respectful, and uplifting manner. He is the embodiment of a Christlike heart and an example to us all,” he said. Elder Lynn G. Robbins of the Seventy: Mistakes, said Elder Robbins, are a fact of life. In fact, it’s the way the Lord teaches his children. Those who fail may wonder why God can’t aid them and help them avoid failure, but there are four reasons he doesn’t, Elder Robbins said.

1. The Lord knows failure will give people experience and shall be for their good.

2. Failure allows individuals to taste the bitter so they can know to prize the good.

3. Failure will prove that the battle is the Lord’s and it is only by his grace that individuals can accomplish God's work and become like him.

4. Failure helps people develop and hone scores of Christlike attributes that cannot be refined except through opposition and in the furnace of affliction.

Elder Robbins said in a life full of stumbling blocks, each is grateful for second chances. Repentance is God's ever-accessible gift that enables people to go from failure to failure without any loss of enthusiasm. Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Elder Andersen spoke of the transfer of leadership to a new prophet, as the final speaker during the Saturday morning session of general conference. He reminded members that the selection of the prophet is made by the Lord and that there is no campaigning, debates, or confusion in the process. Elder Andersen emphasized that church members, while they sustain President Nelson as a new prophet and the Lord’s anointed, worship only God and Jesus Christ. And while there are many reasons to admire President Nelson, church members follow the prophet because Jesus Christ called him and designated him as his watchman on the tower, Andersen remarked.

"A prophet does not stand between you and the Savior. Rather, he stands beside you and points the way to the Savior. A prophet’s greatest responsibility and most precious gift to us is his sure witness, his certain knowledge, that Jesus is the Christ." @AndersenNeilL pic.twitter.com/fN5tUaYePL

— The LDS Church (@LDSchurch) March 31, 2018 This is not blind faith, Andersen said, and each church member should gain their own spiritual witness of the truthfulness of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. While reason, debate, argument, logic, explanation and questioning “Why?” are important and allow the power of intellect to guide choices and decisions, the Lord’s voice often comes without explanation, Elder Andersen said. “In my personal life, I have found that as I prayerfully study the words of the prophet of God, and carefully, with patience, spiritually align my will with his inspired teachings, my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ always increases,” he said.

— Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 10:30am

LDS Church announces first Brazilian and Chinese-American apostles

Elders Gerrit W. Gong and Ulisses Soares were called as the newest members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Saturday.

ICYMI, watch the announcement of two new apostles to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. #LDSconf pic.twitter.com/PmVVHGA3ss

— Mormon Newsroom (@MormonNewsroom) March 31, 2018

Photos from the sustaining of President @NelsonRussellM during #LDSconf this morning and announcement of two new LDS apostles. Elders Gerrit W. Gong and Ulisses Soares. @KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/0ek1NkSxle

— Sam Penrod (@KSLsampenrod) March 31, 2018

Here is Elder Soares, left, and Elder Gong walking to their new seats in the Conference Center to join the Q12. See all Deseret News photos of historic general conference. #lds #mormon #ldsconf https://t.co/ZJ7bwQkdyi pic.twitter.com/A3MP0BRQOg

— Tad Walch (@Tad_Walch) March 31, 2018 KSL will provide more information on the new apostles throughout the weekend.

Saturday, 09:38am

Opening session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the 188th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hear from church leaders as they give members guidance and testify of Jesus Christ. This weekend, LDS faithful are expected to sustain their new prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, as well as two new apostles in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Join us to hear messages of Jesus Christ for your life. Tune in on https://t.co/pFfJLfYpoK starting at 10:00 a.m. MST. pic.twitter.com/Neh47ATt2B

— The LDS Church (@LDSchurch) March 31, 2018Watch general conference proceedings live:

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