Latter-day Saints' 189th Annual General Conference concludes; read talk highlights here

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SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will hold the 189th Annual General Conference from April 6-7. This blog summarizes the key points from each session.

Sunday, 04:31pm

General conference sessions conclude

Sunday, 04:17pm

President Russell M. Nelson - Closing remarks

In his concluding remarks, President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, announced plans to build eight new temples across the world, as well as plans to “renew” and “renovate” all of the church’s "pioneer-era" temples. The church’s new temples will be built in:

Pago Pago, American Samoa

Okinawa City, Okinawa

Neiafu, Tonga

Tooele Valley, Utah

Moses Lake, Washington

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

Antofagasta, Chile

Budapest, Hungary

President Nelson said there are also plans to renovate the church’s temples in St. George, Utah; Salt Lake City, Utah; Logan, Utah; and Manti, Utah. Renovations on those temples will be done in the coming years. More details can be found here. — Jordan Ormond, KSL.com

Sunday, 03:51pm

Elder Ronald A. Rasband - Build a fortress of spirituality and protection

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles helped close out the conference meeting, and also set up the final remarks that were set to be given by President Russell M. Nelson, whom church members refer to as the prophet and president of the church. Elder Rasband directed church members to the next step, quoting scriptures that teach to “go ye unto your homes, and ponder,” and striving to make each member’s home a “fortress” with “spiritual strength within the walls.”

Elder @RonaldARasband #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/BSEqnD2hWo
— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 7, 2019

“For our protection, we must build a fortress of spirituality and protection for our very souls,” Elder Rasband said, “a fortress that will not be penetrated by the evil one.” Among the ways to “build the fortress,” he gave itemized lists that included obedience; covenants, or promises to God; Sunday worship services and integrity. Elder Rasband then encouraged church members to lead others “back to the fortress of spirituality and protection.”

"When we build a fortress of spiritual strength, we can shun the advances of the adversary; turn our backs on him, and feel the peace of the Spirit." #ElderRasband | #GeneralConference | @RonaldARasband pic.twitter.com/kBLqfzlOQC
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

— Sean Walker, KSL.com

Sunday, 03:41pm

Elder Kyle S. McKay - The immediate goodness of God

In his conference address, Elder Kyle S. McKay of the Quorum of the Seventy told church members that God’s timing is different than man’s timing, and many difficult situations require patience and faith to get through. Still, His peace can be felt now. “The immediate goodness of God comes to all who call upon Him with real intent and full purpose of heart,” Elder McKay said.

"My message today is that, even while we are patiently waiting upon the Lord, there are certain blessings that come to us immediately." #ElderMcKay | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/uQPpwjkWME
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

Elder McKay shared stories from the scriptures and those of church members who felt immediate comfort and peace during difficult trials. One was a mother who had been addicted to drugs for a long time and found herself suddenly alone and scared inside a treatment facility. When she prayed for help, God immediately blessed her with a “wondrous calm, courage, assurance and love,” Elder McKay said. The woman ultimately recovered from her addition and was preserved through it by God, he said.

"I promise that as you turn to Him with real intent and full purpose of heart, He will deliver you from everything that threatens to diminish or destroy your life or joy." #KyleMcKay #ElderMcKay #GeneralConference #GenConf
— BYU-Idaho Scroll 🗞 (@byuiscroll) April 7, 2019

Although God may not help immediately, Elder McKay said God's help is always there and that "as you turn to Him with real intent and full purpose of heart, He will deliver you from everything that threatens to diminish or destroy your life or joy." — Jordan Ormond, KSL.com

Sunday, 03:27pm

Elder David A. Bednar - Prepared to obtain every needful thing

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles followed up on several historic announcements that the church has recently made, including the shift to a two-hour Sunday meeting schedule that leaders prescribed as a home-centered, church-supported curriculum. But he said the changes church leaders hope to enact in individual members won’t occur simply because of a few historic announcements. “Each member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has an individual responsibility to learn and live the Lord’s teachings and to receive by proper authority the ordinances of salvation and exaltation,” Elder Bednar said. “We should not expect the church as an organization to teach or tell us everything we need to know and do to become devoted disciples and endure valiantly to the end.”

"We cannot rely exclusively upon or borrow gospel light and knowledge from other people — even those whom we love and trust." — Elder @BednarDavidA | #ElderBednar | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/NdeWiujpuq
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

Elder Bednar cautioned members against relying on church leaders, both locally and globally, for their faith and belief in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He also laid out several guidelines members can use when discussing what goes on in the church’s temples, which unlike regular Sunday meeting places are reserved for members of the church who meet specific guidelines to enter. Temples are a place where Latter-day Saints go to worship and perform sacred ordinances. “The temple is the house of the Lord. Everything in the temple points us to our Savior, Jesus Christ,” Elder Bednar said. “We may discuss the basic purposes of and the doctrine and principles associated with temple ordinances and covenants.” Examples of what is appropriate for members to talk about outside of the temple can be found at temples.churchofjesuschrist.org, he added.

#ElderBednar #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/BCRSgnV50D
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

— Sean Walker, KSL.com

Sunday, 03:09pm

Elder Gerrit W. Gong - Good shepherd, lamb of God

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles urged church members to use the image of Jesus Christ as a shepherd as inspiration for those listening to come unto Christ; then Latter-day Saints can help bring others to Him as well. Elder Gong said Christ, as the Good Shepherd calls his “missing lambs” –– those who don’t know about Him or are not following his teachings –– to gather to his fold in three ways:

1. He calls his sheep in His voice and name.

2. He seeks and gathers his sheep.

3. He teaches how to minister in love.

When members of the church follow the example of the Good Shepherd in gathering themselves and others to Christ and His teachings, Elder Gong said they will “find peace, purpose, healing, and joy in the fullness of His restored gospel and on His covenant path.”

Elder @GerritWGong #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/cweSUxreAG
— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 7, 2019

— Jordan Ormond, KSL.com

Sunday, 02:57pm

Elder Juan Pablo Villar - Exercising our spiritual muscles

Elder Juan Pablo Villar, a General Authority Seventy, began his remarks by effusing about the wonders of the human body, which is a mortal instrument and physical tool. But the discourse from the General Authority Seventy from Chile was not about physical talents or the church’s Word of Wisdom, a mandate from the church that includes dietary restrictions and a health code. Instead, he spoke of exercising “spiritual muscles,” recalling an experience he had while spending a day with his missionary brother, walking through the streets of Chile and sharing his beliefs with strangers prior to his own baptism in the church.

“When doubts come to our minds, trusting in the Lord’s promises will be required to move forward.” #ElderVillar | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/7t6FaSBNnB
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 7, 2019

“I am grateful for my brother Ivan, who not only shared the gospel with me but also indirectly invited me to live it and recognize my weaknesses,” Elder Villar said. “He helped me to accept the invitation of the Master: ‘Come, follow me.’” Latter-day Saints can exercise their spiritual muscles through reading and learning about the gospel in the scriptures, spending time in prayer and contemplation, and learning in church classes, he said.

“Just as reading and learning about muscles is not enough to build muscle, reading and learning about faith without adding action is insufficient to build faith.” #ElderVillar | #GeneralConference
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 7, 2019

#ElderVillar #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/y8KL7x3HZR
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

— Sean Walker, KSL.com

Sunday, 02:46pm

President Dallin H. Oaks - Cleansed by repentance

President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the church’s First Presidency, opened the Sunday afternoon session of general conference by speaking about the importance of repentance. He said his message was intended to be one of hope for all because “we are all sinners who can be cleansed by repentance.”

President @OaksDallinH: "My message today is one of hope for all of us, including for those who have lost their membership in the Church by excommunication or name removal. We are all sinners who can be cleansed by repentance." #PresOaks | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/6G2PBfgNu5
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

Repentance, he said, is an essential part of God’s plan, which Latter-day Saints believe includes God sending us to the earth to prove that we will follow His plan. While we are accountable to both God and His chosen servants during this mortal life, President Oaks said “the ultimate accountability, including the final cleansing effect of repentance, is between each of us and God.” He cautioned church members to not delay their repentance so they may find happiness and progress toward their goal of eternal life, or life with God after death.

#PresOaks opening the Sunday afternoon session of #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/oYZVh01x5Q
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

— Jordan Ormond, KSL.com

Sunday, 01:49pm

Sunday afternoon session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the Sunday afternoon session of the 189th 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. Watch general conference proceedings live:

Sunday, 12:12pm

President Russell M. Nelson - 'Come, Follow Me'

President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, started off his talk speaking about his daughter, Wendy Nelson Maxfield, who died earlier this year from cancer. During one of her last days, he had a conversation with his daughter about what was most important: covenants, or promises with God; ordinances, or sacred rituals performed by members of the church; obedience; faith; family; fidelity; love and eternal life. A day and a half after she died, President Nelson and his wife, Wendy L. Watson Nelson, visited the aftermath of the destructive fire that took out the California town of Paradise. They spoke with a young police officer named John, who worked through the dark, thick smoke to help people escape the destruction but worried about his own family and whether they were safe. President Nelson used these stories to share how families can be reunited after they die. Jesus Christ taught the way back to heaven for families, he said. But everyone must make and keep covenants, such being baptized, to qualify for heaven, he added. He said he is anguished by people who choose not to follow Jesus Christ — people who are wonderful and give their time, energy and resources to make the world better. But they have chosen not to make covenants with God. He invited them to consider making covenants with God so they can live together with their families after death.

Pres. Nelson: “I plead with you who have distanced yourselves from the Church and with you who have not ... sought to know that the Savior’s Church has been restored. Do the spiritual work to find out for yourselves, and please do it now. Time is running out.” #GeneralConference
— Sarah Jane Weaver (@SJW_ChurchNews) April 7, 2019

If people are not sure if they believe in God, they should start there and pour their heart out to God in prayer, President Nelson said. Jesus Christ invites everyone to “take the covenant path back home to our Heavenly parents” and be with those they love, President Nelson said. He ended with a plea to those who have distanced themselves from the church, or those who have not asked God, to “do the spiritual work to find out for yourselves” if the church is true. “Time is running out,” he added.

#PresNelson #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/hORS0lByuk
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

— Tracie Snowder, KSL.com

Sunday, 11:40am

Brother Tad R. Callister - The atonement of Jesus Christ

When you sin, you are like a foolish man who has just jumped out of a plane, said Brother Tad R. Callister, who was released from his calling in the Sunday School General Presidency on Saturday. Just like the inevitability of gravity for the foolish man, a crash landing awaits you when you sin, no matter what you do, Brother Callister said. But a parachute saves the foolish man, carrying him safely to the ground when he pulls the ripcord, he said. The Savior provides protection when you sin — a spiritual parachute of sorts, Brother Callister said. However, you must do your part to repent, pulling the metaphorical ripcord, he added.

"We can be saved only because the Savior, through His Atonement, mercifully provides us with a spiritual parachute of sorts."#BrotherCallister #TedRCallister #GeneralConference #GenConf
— BYU-Idaho Scroll 🗞 (@byuiscroll) April 7, 2019

This protection is possible because Jesus Christ overcame humanity’s four obstacles: death; sin; afflictions and infirmities; and weaknesses and imperfections, Brother Callister said.

"In summary, the Savior’s Atonement gives us life for death, 'beauty for ashes,' healing for hurt and perfection for weakness. It is heaven’s antidote to the obstacles and struggles of this world." #BroCallister | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/B7dAw6hKah
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Sunday, 11:36am

Elder D. Todd Christofferson - Preparing for the Lord’s return

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles participated in an international conference with leaders from many different faiths as they worked together to find ways to relieve the suffering and oppression of people in poverty. Thinking about the church’s humanitarian efforts, he had two impressions. First, the work of helping people with temporal needs is vital and must continue. Second, beyond selfless service, it is “supremely important” to prepare the world for the second coming of Jesus Christ, he said. Elder Christofferson outlined what the scriptures have foretold about Christ’s second coming: oppression and injustice will cease, poverty and suffering will vanish, the pain and sorrow of death will be gone. But it is the responsibility of members of the church to prepare the world and relieve suffering and sorrow now as much as possible, he said. The church is “uniquely empowered and commissioned to accomplish” what needs to happen before the second coming of Christ, and it needs to be the leader in committing time and funds to the “gathering and preparation of a covenant people,” Elder Christofferson said.

"We can prepare ourselves as a people; we can gather the Lord’s covenant people; we can help redeem the promise of salvation 'made to the fathers,' our ancestors. All of this must occur in some substantial degree before the Lord comes again." #GeneralConference @ChristoffDTodd pic.twitter.com/6h13HKZNv5
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

He offered a few things members of the church can do to prepare for the second coming of Christ. First, there needs to be “people prepared to receive Him,” also known as Zion. Zion, he described, is “the pure in heart, a people of one heart and one mind, dwelling in righteousness with no poor among them.” Church members meet together weekly to take the sacrament, pray and lift up those who are suffering. Elder Christofferson quoted church President Russell M. Nelson who said the main objective of the church is to help members increase their faith in Christ, make and keep covenants, or promises with God, and strengthen their families. The church believes in the literal gathering of Israel, Elder Christofferson said, which means missionary work, or bringing people into the church, is the most important thing members of the church can do. Another thing needed for the second coming is the redeeming of the dead, or performing ordinances, such as baptism, vicariously on behalf of member’s ancestors in the temple. This helps establish Zion for generations who died without hearing about the gospel, he said.

“Let us do all we can to relieve suffering and sorrow now, and let us devote ourselves
more diligently to the preparations needed for the day when pain and evil are ended altogether.” #ElderChristofferson #GeneralConference
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

— Tracie Snowder, KSL.com

Sunday, 11:20am

Elder Quentin L. Cook - Great love for our Father’s children

With a new focus on family-centered, church-supported gospel learning in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the home should be filled with joy and love, said Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The message in the home should also be clear and compelling, he said. The home should be a refuge from the storms that abound in the world, and parents have a responsibility to make their homes places where children can be engaged, Elder Cook said.

#ElderCook #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/jM4cdMwW9m
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

Love should be present in the home, but it should also be present in missionary work, he added. Missionaries should look beyond a feeling of responsibility and seek to increase love and participation in the divine message, Elder Cook said. This extends to other efforts in the church, such as ministering or family history work, he said. Latter-day Saints believe that through family history work, which includes finding family members who have died but did not join the church, they can vicariously be baptized on behalf of dead ancestors to give them an opportunity to join the church.

Elder @CookQuentinL: "I promise that lovingly performing ordinances for ancestors will strengthen and protect our youth and families in a world that is becoming increasingly evil." #ElderCook | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/lMCf7UHL9w
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Sunday, 10:57am

Sister Sharon L. Eubank - Christ the light that shines in darkness

Sister Sharon L. Eubank, first counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, shared that her office looks directly over the Salt Lake Temple and that she looks forward to seeing the lights go on every night. One night in February, however, her office was darker than normal. She looked up and noticed that the temple lights were off. Seeing that darkness reminded her of the fundamental need for people to stay connected to their source of light, Jesus Christ. Satan tries to exploit our spiritual powers to leave people in the dark, Sister Eubank said. He works hard to isolate people, and some are paralyzed with grief, she said. Christ heals all wounds, even for those who are just tired from trying to fulfill all their responsibilities.

#SisterEubank #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/BGFdjFa0st
— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 7, 2019

Some people feel they don’t fit the traditional mold, don’t feel accepted or acceptable, she said. In almost every story in the New Testament, it shows Christ reaching out to people who weren’t traditionally accepted in society, Sister Eubank said. Some people are splintering with questions and some people feel they will never be good enough. Despite all these challenges, there is light in the darkness, Sister Eubank said. No matter how hard Satan tries, darkness cannot put out the light of Christ. You, or people you know, may temporarily go dark. It’s hard to get the light back on by yourself, she said. Everyone needs friends and other people who will show up in person, recharge spiritual batteries and repair what went wrong, Sister Eubank said. Christ knows how hard people are trying and that they are making progress, she said; so keep going.

“I testify you are beloved. The Lord knows how hard you are trying. You are making progress. Keep going . . . Your work is not in vain. You are not alone. … He is surely with you.” #SisterEubank | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/UyucnQWZZT
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 7, 2019

— Tracie Snowder, KSL.com

Sunday, 10:40am

Elder Dale G. Renlund - 'Abound with blessings'

In order to receive blessings, you must take action, Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said. He started the Sunday morning session of general conference by describing a giant pile of wood, with kindling, sticks and logs. The woodpile contains a massive amount of energy, but that it will never be released unless someone strikes a match and lights the kindling, Elder Renlund said.

#ElderRenlund | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/xGusXLmw1m
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 7, 2019

Likewise, there are blessings available to you, but you must act with faith in order to receive them, Elder Renlund said. And like a fire requires a constant supply of oxygen to keep burning, Elder Renlund told members they must continually take action in order to keep receiving blessings. Even though one's actions might seem awkward at times, those small, faith-based actions will invite blessings, Elder Renlund said.

Elder @DaleGRenlund #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/qWTbPwsekV
— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 7, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Sunday, 09:50am

Sunday morning session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the Sunday morning session of the 189th 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. Watch general conference proceedings live:

Saturday, 08:10pm

Saturday general conference sessions conclude

Saturday, 07:59pm

President Russell M. Nelson - We can do better and be better

President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, admonished the men of the church to repent and change their minds and thoughts, as well as the way they love, serve and care for their bodies. “We can do better and be better,” he said. Focusing on daily repentance should be a key part of each person’s day, President Nelson said, adding that the feeling of being penalized while repenting comes from Satan, the adversary.

#PresNelson speaks about repentance at the Priesthood Session of #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/EVgRSiPjqg
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

The man Latter-day Saints believe to be God’s prophet on the earth also gave the men of the church two specific ways to improve their behavior, including: 1. The treatment of their bodies: The body is a personal temple, he said. Caring for that temple and treating it with reverence is important. 2. The treatment of the women in their lives: President Nelson reminded the men of the church that the way they treat their wives, daughters, mothers, sisters and all other women in their lives is of the utmost importance. President Nelson said he recently received a “heartbreaking” letter from a family of women who said they were losing their husband and brothers to the men’s constant attention to sports and video games. He also reminded husbands that their foremost duty was to love and care for their wife. “Brethren, we all need to repent. We need to get up off the couch, put down the remote and wake up from our spiritual slumber,” he said.

"Nothing is more liberating, more ennobling, or more crucial to our individual progression than is a regular, daily focus on repentance. Repentance is not an event; it's a process. It is the key to happiness and peace of mind." — Pres. @NelsonRussellM pic.twitter.com/iQ6j5d4G1I
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

— Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 07:35pm

President Dallin H. Oaks - Where will this lead?

Latter-day Saints “can’t afford to do nothing” when they see a need for action, whether in their families, their communities or society at-large, said President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the church’s First Presidency. “As we see threats creeping up on persons or things we love, we have the choice of speaking or acting or remaining silent,” President Oaks said. “It is well to ask ourselves where will this lead?”

“There is nothing bad about playing video games or texting or watching TV or talking on a cell phone. But each of these involves what is called ‘opportunity cost,’ meaning that if we spend time doing one thing, we lose the opportunity to do another.” #PresOaks #GeneralConference
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 7, 2019

He gave the example of a group of college students stretched out on the quad and staring at a squirrel near a tree. A few feet away sat an Irish setter. As the canine got closer, the crowd of students seemed to get larger — until the dog lunged at the squirrel, caught it in his mouth, and the crowd of students began to wrestle away the critter from its predator. But it was too late for the squirrel. Mankind’s rash of decisions and choices are similar, President Oaks said. Some decisions are large, others small, but all have consequences — and the time for decision-making is over when consequences have been full enacted, he added.

As we see threats creeping up on persons or things we love, we have the choice of speaking or acting or remaining silent. … Where the consequences are immediate and serious, we cannot afford to do nothing.
—@OaksDallinH #GeneralConference
— The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (@ChurchNewsroom) April 7, 2019

— Sean Walker, KSL.com

Saturday, 07:26pm

President Henry B. Eyring - The power of sustaining faith

President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor of the church’s First Presidency, spoke of the power and strength leaders in the church feel when they know those they lead sustain or support them. President Eyring told the men of the church that they will find joy in faithfully sustaining their leaders.

“It took faith in Jesus Christ to sustain the plan of happiness, and Jesus Christ’s place in it, when you knew so little of the challenges that you would face in mortality.” #PresidentEyring | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/ATQZX7fuaw
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 7, 2019

The apostle mentioned four improvements to better support church leaders during the conference:

Identify specific actions speakers at the conference recommend, then carry them out.

Pray that God’s spirit will carry the speaker’s words to loved ones.

Pray that specific speakers will be blessed and magnified as they share their messages.

Listen for messages from the speakers that come as answers to personal prayers for help.

President Eyring also suggested following those actions to better support local leaders, as well as leaders in the home and family. Those who do so will grow in love and faith, he said. As they grow in that pure love of Christ, their hearts will soften and will lead them to repent, and as members of the church continue supporting each other, they will become one, he added.

"In the priesthood quorum and in the family, increased faith to sustain each other is the way we build the Zion the Lord wants us to create. With His help we can, and we will." Pres. @EyringHB | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/qTvsjTsuTX
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

— Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 07:06pm

Elder Kim B. Clark - Look unto Jesus Christ

Elder Kim B. Clark, who currently serves as the commissioner of church’s educational system and a General Authority Seventy, told men of the church that they should be “riveted” on Jesus Christ and His gospel in their church service. “Rivet is a great word,” he said. “It means to fasten firmly, to attract and hold completely. We rivet our focus on Jesus Christ and His gospel by living our covenants.”

Elder Clark: "Rivet is a great word. It means to fasten firmly, to attract and hold completely. We rivet our focus on Jesus Christ and His Gospel by living our covenants." #generalconference
— Tad Walch (@Tad_Walch) April 7, 2019

Elder Clark promised spiritual blessings as men of the church keep their focus “riveted” on Jesus Christ — even when “sometimes we get stuck,” he added — and follow the example outlined in the scriptures. He also said that men of the church are not alone in the admonition, but that they should work together with the women of the church to "minister in a holier way,” and serve those around them.

"Brethren, have we not cause to rejoice? We do! We hold the Holy Priesthood of God. " #ElderClark #GeneralConference #PriesthoodPower pic.twitter.com/H1OsmiFlTD
— BYU-Idaho Scroll 🗞 (@byuiscroll) April 7, 2019

— Sean Walker, KSL.com

Saturday, 06:53pm

Elder Carl B. Cook - The quorum: A place of belonging

When Elder Carl B. Cook of the Quorum of the Seventy was young, his parents divorced and his father left his mother with five young children. She began to work and study to provide for her large family and had little time to nurture her children. But family, friends and President Cook’s quorum, a group of young men in his church congregation, stepped up to help. While President Cook said some may have considered him a long shot and an underdog because of his family’s situation, his quorum rallied around him and changed and blessed his life “immeasurably.” That is the purpose of quorums, President Cook said; they are there to look after their brothers and help them grow in faith in Jesus Christ.

"Every priesthood holder, regardless of his situation, benefits from a strong quorum. My young brothers ... the Lord would have you establish a strong
quorum, a place of belonging ...where the Lord’s Spirit is present ... where all quorum members are welcome & valued." #ElderCook pic.twitter.com/baJKfxWenl
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 7, 2019

He also recounted the story of a young man in Africa who was baptized into the church, though his quorum was small. Yet the young man accompanied the missionaries in his area to teach other young men, and soon his quorum had grown to 12. “When even one disciple reaches out to a friend, one can become two. Two can become four. Four can become eight. Eight can become 12,” President Cook said. — Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 06:45pm

Elder Gary E. Stevenson - Your priesthood playbook

Latter-day Saint men who hold the priesthood, which is the authority Latter-day Saints believe gives them power to act in God's behalf to lead and help church members, have a team, or a “quorum,” explained Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Elder Stevenson compared members of each congregation’s priesthood quorum to teammates on an athletic team, and cited examples of famous Latter-day Saint professional athletes — including basketball’s Jimmer Fredette and Jabari Parker; baseball’s Bryce Harper and Jeremy Guthrie; football’s Taysom Hill and Danny Sorensen; soccer’s Ricardo Rojas; and rugby’s Will Hopoate — who are known for their athletic prowess, but have also served in multiple positions within the Church.

From @bryceharper3: “I thought fame, fortune, & an MVP award would make me happy. Something was missing. So, I...prepared and [entered] the temple. I am now on a path to [return] to my Heavenly Father and have an eternal family...the greatest joy in the world!” #generalconference
— Tad Walch (@Tad_Walch) April 7, 2019

“I couldn’t imagine the person that I would’ve turned out to be if I hadn’t made the decision to be baptized when I was younger,” Elder Stevenson quoted Parker as saying. “I’m so grateful that I have God in my life to guide me every day.”

#ElderStevenson | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/RtVysCWZoC
— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 7, 2019

Elder Stevenson said members of the priesthood should "learn the playbook" and "prove yourself as a disciple of Christ." If you do this, he added, God will use you. — Sean Walker, KSL.com

Saturday, 05:50pm

Priesthood session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the priesthood session of the 189th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This session is set aside for boys 11 years old and older, and men who hold the priesthood, or authority that Latter-day Saints believe gives them power to act in God's behalf to lead and help church members. Hear from church leaders as they give members guidance and testify of Jesus Christ. Watch general conference proceedings live:

Saturday, 04:09pm

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland - 'Behold the Lamb of God'

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reminded members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that Sunday worship services are the most sacred hours of the week. Even though the church has shifted to emphasize more home study, it is still important to be punctual and dress appropriately on Sunday, Elder Holland said.

Elder @HollandJeffreyR: "One way to 'always remember him' would be
to join the Great Physician in His never-ending task of lifting the load from those who are burdened and relieving the pain of those who are distraught." #GeneralConference
— Tad Walch (@Tad_Walch) April 6, 2019

Elder Holland also commended those church leaders who have eliminated announcements and other things that detract from worship services. Sundays are not the time for updates about pinewood derbies, he joked. Though people bring their own struggles to church on Sundays, they should also be more mindful of others who may be experiencing sorrow, Elder Holland said. Members should offer up compassion and comfort to those in need, he added. By keeping Sundays sacred, Latter-day Saints can honor Christ’s gift — and sacrifice — to humankind, Elder Holland said.

Elder Holland: "As for punctuality, a late pass will always be lovingly granted to those blessed mothers who, with children, Cheerios, and diaper bags trailing in marvelous disarray, are lucky to have made it at all." #GeneralConference
— Sarah Jane Weaver (@SJW_ChurchNews) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 03:49pm

Elder David P. Homer - Hearing His voice

There are many voices seeking attention in this world, Elder David P. Homer of the Quorum of the Seventy said. It can be difficult to know which voices to follow and give credence to. Doing what is popular is not always what is best, and halting between two opinions brings no direction, he said. The wrong voice can lead listeners vastly astray, he added. Heavenly Father gives His children impressions through His spirit, or the Holy Ghost. If they listen to them, more will come.

“What is popular is not always what is best. Halting between two opinions brings no direction. Convenience rarely leads to things that matter. Fixation on a single voice or issue can impair our ability to see.” #ElderHomer #GeneralConference
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 6, 2019

Finding God’s voice can be difficult, but prayer, scripture study, attending church, engaging in faithful discussions and going to the temple can help us find it, Elder Homer said. When direction from God is slow to come, often He expects His children to make a decision and press forward in faith.

“If we are not careful, the wrong voices can draw us away from the gospel center to places where faith is difficult to sustain, and we find little more than emptiness, bitterness and dissatisfaction.” #ElderHomer | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/gZ7IMdpO1V
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 6, 2019

It is up to all those who seek God to choose which voice to follow: their Heavenly Father’s or the world’s, or those that don't follow Jesus Christ. Following God’s will lead us to Him, Elder Homer said. — Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 03:36pm

Elder Takashi Wada - Feasting upon the words of Christ

Just as you can feast on a delicious meal, so can you feast upon the words of Christ, said Elder Takashi Wada, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Immersing yourself in the words of God can lead others around you to Christ, Elder Wada said. Elder Wada recounted a story involving his mother, who was baptized two years ago. One day, when she was at church, she encountered a 4-year-old boy. The boy went back to his seat, got a hymn book and walked all the way over to Elder Wada’s mother to hand it to her, he said. There were hymn books on every other seat in the church, but the boy chose to give Elder Wada’s mother his own. The moment marked an important change in his mother, who saw that the boy's kindness was learned in his home and at church. She took that moment as a impression that God was "inviting her to come and follow the Savior," which led her to be baptized, Elder Wada said. Elder Wada concluded by saying that "feasting upon the words of Christ can happen at any time, and on any occasion, if we prepare our hearts to receive them."

“The words of Christ will profoundly touch hearts and open the hearts of those who do not yet see him.” #ElderWada | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/gAwW9CtK01
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 03:25pm

Elder Neil L. Andersen - The eye of faith

When Pontius Pilate questioned Jesus Christ before his crucifixion, the ruler asked Him, “What is truth?” It’s a question that can be “painfully complex” to the secular mind, Elder Neil L. Anderson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said. Cellphones contain more information than an entire library, and “enticing and alluring voices pursue us at every turn,” Elder Anderson explained. But to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the restoration of the church enables members to learn and know essential spiritual truths, and a focus on Christ’s teachings can lead His followers to complete knowledge of those truths, the apostle added.

“[Jesus Christ] teaches us that it does not matter if we are rich or poor, prominent or unknown, sophisticated or simple.” #ElderAndersen | #GeneralConference
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 6, 2019

Elder Anderson reminded members that many beliefs they hold close are now rejected by those outside the church as untrue or unimportant, including the law of chastity — to avoid sexual intimacy outside of marriage — the protection of the unborn and the sanctity of marriage. While those in the church who struggle with these truths may believe that others don’t understand their situation, Elder Anderson reminds them that Christ does. “As you seek Him and keep His commandments, I promise you that He will bless you and lift the burdens too heavy to bear alone,” Elder Anderson said.

#ElderAndersen #GeneralConcerence pic.twitter.com/eB8QlZLLZ7
— The Universe at BYU (@UniverseBYU) April 6, 2019

— Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 03:05pm

Elder Mathias Held - Seeking knowledge by the spirit

You cannot go through life relying exclusively on your rational mind, said Elder Mathias Held, General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. People must think beyond logic and accept guidance and inspiration from other sources, such as from the Holy Spirit, or spirit of God, Elder Held said. But those whispers can be very subtle, so some are not aware of them, he added. To illustrate his point, Elder Held explained that people could see perfectly well with just one eye. However, the second eye gives a different perspective, allowing us to see a three-dimensional picture of our surroundings, he said. Similarly, people must use multiple perspectives when making decisions about their lives, Elder Held added. The Lord is always trying to help people become who He knows they can become, he said.

“We can fully trust in a loving Heavenly Father who is constantly trying to help us become the person He knows we can become.” #ElderHeld | #GeneralConference
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 02:57pm

President M. Russell Ballard - The true, pure, and simple gospel of Jesus Christ

President M. Russell Ballard, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, expressed his concern that the spiritual purposes behind recent changes made in the church may be lost in the excitement around those changes. Members of the church should remember to focus on the true, simple and pure aspects of the gospel of Jesus Christ, he said. That focus should revolve around loving God and loving others — and keeping efforts simple in order to avoid complicating the gospel of Christ.

"Brothers and sisters, do the best you can do day after day, and before you know it, you will come to realize that your Heavenly Father knows you and that He loves you."#MRussellBallard #GeneralConference #GenConf #ElderBallard
— BYU-Idaho Scroll (@byuiscroll) April 6, 2019

The announcement from last fall's general conference about home-centered, church-supported learning should renew members’ spirit and devotion to God within the walls of their homes, President Ballard said. Effective service to others is best viewed through the focused lens of loving God and neighbors, but should not be complicated with unnecessary meetings and other trivial actions, he added. Instead, the joy of service comes through the simple things in life. — Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 02:50pm

Church calls first African-American General Authority Seventy

Elder Peter M. Johnson was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the Saturday afternoon session of general conference. The 52-year-old is the first African-American General Authority Seventy in the history of the church. Members of the Quorum of the Seventy are general authorities of the church who oversee the work of the church under the direction of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Elder Johnson was born in New York City. He attended Southern Utah University and earned a Ph.D. in accounting from Arizona State University. He and his wife, Stephanie Lyn Chadwick, have four children.

Here is Elder Peter Johnson, the first African-American general authority of the @LDSchurch. He is 52, and was born in New York City, New York. He married Stephanie Lyn Chadwick in 1990. They are the parents of four children. #GeneralConference #latterdaysaint #ldsconf pic.twitter.com/p5LTlTp07y
— Tad Walch (@Tad_Walch) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 02:36pm

Former BYU running back called as new Area Seventy

Among the new Area Seventy called Saturday afternoon is former BYU running back Vai Sikahema. A native of Tonga who prepped in Arizona, and a 1986 NFL draft pick, Sikahema played in the NFL from 1986 to 1993, when the two-time Pro Bowler retired and went into sports broadcasting. Prior to his calling, Sikahema worked at WCAU in Philadelphia since 1994 and contributed regular columns to the Deseret News, in addition to a brief morning show on WPEN 97.5 in the Philadelphia area. He was inducted into the Philadelphia sports hall of fame as a broadcaster in 2013. Sikahema served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in South Dakota before returning to the Cougars in 1984. — Sean Walker, KSL.com

Saturday, 02:24pm

Changes to the Sunday School General Presidency

Brother Tad Callister, president, Brother Devin G. Durrant, first counselor, and Brother Brian K. Ashton, second counselor, have been released from their calling in the Sunday School General Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Church members sustained their release in a vote during the Saturday afternoon session of general conference. President Dallin H. Oaks commended the three men for their remarkable work. Brother Mark L. Pace was called as the new president of the Sunday School General Presidency, Brother Milton Camargo was called as first counselor and Brother Jan E. Newman was called as second counselor.

General Sunday School presidency (left to right) Milton Camargo, First Counselor; Mark L. Pace, President; Jan E. Newman, Second Counselor. (Photo: Intellectual Reserve, Inc.)

Ten new General Authorities and a new Sunday School General Presidency have been called. Read more about these 13 new leaders: https://t.co/2Oaoyttd9n #GeneralConference
— The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (@ChurchNewsroom) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 01:48pm

Second session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the second session of the 189th 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. Watch general conference proceedings live:

Saturday, 12:13am

President Henry B. Eyring - A home where the spirit of the Lord dwells

President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the church’s First Presidency, said his purpose in speaking was to teach families how to invite God’s spirit into their homes and keep it there.

“Contention, pride and sin have to be kept at bay. The pure love of Christ must come into the hearts of those in our family.” #PresidentEyring | #GeneralConference
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 6, 2019

He shared five ways to do so: 1. Growing in faith: Parents should help their children build their faith in Jesus Christ by reading the scriptures and keeping His commandments. 2. Praying with love: Praying as a family can play a crucial role in making a home a sacred place, he said. Prayer can build bonds of love. 3. Teaching early repentance: Teach children to repent early and sincerely. Harsh words should soon be followed by, “I’m sorry.” 4. Cultivating the missionary spirit: Family members will grow in their desire to share the gospel as they feel the joy of forgiveness. That joy can go far in turning homes into little missionary training centers. 5. Visiting the temple: The temple, a place where Latter-day Saints go to worship and perform sacred ordinances, provides the best opportunity to gain a feeling for and a love of heavenly places, President Eyring said. Every parent can teach their children what temples mean to them and why they are important.

"For me, the old saying 'The family that prays together stays together' could be expanded to 'The family that prays together is together, even when they are far apart.'" Pres @EyringHB | #PresEyring | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/yZW1Xflcfp
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 6, 2019

— Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 11:49am

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell - Just as He did

It’s never too late to bring someone to the path of Jesus Christ, said Bishop W. Christopher Waddell, second counselor in the Presiding Bishopric of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bishop Waddell spoke about his brother Mike who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017 at age 64. Mike hadn’t attended church regularly for nearly half a century. But during his cancer treatment, which took place in Utah, Mike again began asking questions about the Book of Mormon — a work considered by Latter-day Saints to be scripture and a complement to the Bible — much to the surprise of his family members, Bishop Waddell said. Later, Mike’s stake president, a leader in the church over a region of congregations, found him worthy of the Melchizedek Priesthood, which is the authority Latter-day Saints believe gives them power to act in God's behalf to lead and help church members, and Bishop Waddell was invited to participate in Mike’s ordinance, he said. Five hours after being ordained, Mike died, Bishop Waddell said. Bishop Waddell used that example to convey that members of the church should never give up on individuals because people can change. It is also never too late to extend an invitation, he added.

"If someone is on a list that says ‘not interested’, don’t give up. People change. ... Like my brother Mike, no one is too far gone and it’s never too late for the Savior’s loving reach." #BishopWaddell | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/sMgNCz4xlu
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 11:08am

Elder Brook P. Hales - Answers to prayer

Elder Brook Hales, General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said sometimes prayers and questions aren’t answered in the ways we expect or hope for. He spoke about his oldest son who thought he was headed for his dream job just out of college. He interviewed and prepared well, and was the most qualified candidate, Elder Hales said. He didn’t get the job and could not understand why at first. But later, the son encountered a different life-changing opportunity that has been for his benefit in the long run, Elder Hales said. The Lord is involved in the details of life and sometimes grants improvements that we may not notice or understand, Elder Hales said. Sometimes, prayers and wishes may not be answered in this life, he added.

“When our worthy desires are not granted in the way we hoped, it may actually be for our ultimate benefit.” #ElderHales | #GeneralConference
— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 10:54am

Sister Becky Craven - Careful vs. casual

While walking by a store window one day, Sister Becky Craven, second counselor in the church’s Young Women General Presidency, saw a sign in the window that read, “Happiness: $15.” She was intrigued by the sign and went into the store to see how she could buy happiness for just a few dollars. But when she entered the store, all she found were little trinkets and souvenirs. She’s since thought often about this sign and how sometimes people look for happiness in items that are cheap or temporary.

#GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/EJWy2rolmH
— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 6, 2019

True happiness, she said, is to be found in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and those who follow Him can find it by keeping on the path He taught them to tread. To keep on this road, Christ’s followers must not be casual in their obedience to His commandments, but careful.

"Although we may encounter occasional obstacles along the way, this (covenant) path will keep us moving towards our prized eternal destination if we stay firmly on it." #SisterCraven | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/JUWbwt54uX
— Trent Toone (@tbtoone) April 6, 2019

Careful obedience includes avoiding rationalization of behaviors and actions, she said. Followers of Christ do not lower their standards to fit in or to make someone else feel comfortable. They are disciples of Christ and, as such, elevate others and lift them to a higher, holier place where they can also reap great blessings. — Liesl Nielsen, KSL.com

Saturday, 10:41am

Elder Ulisses Soares - How can I understand?

Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles started off the first general conference session of the weekend by recounting a story from the book of Acts. In the story, the evangelist Philip encountered an Ethiopian man and read the man some scripture passages. But when Philip was finished, the man had not understood what he heard. So Philip began teaching the man and preaching to him so that he could better understand. Sometimes, people are like the Ethiopian man — in need of a teacher or guide, Elder Soares said. At other times, people are like Philip and find themselves teaching and guiding others, he said. The best teacher is a good role model, Elder Soares said. But what happens if you are a great role model to others around you, but you still find your friends and family taking a different path? Don’t worry — they are not lost, Elder Soares said. The Lord knows where they are and is watching over them, he said.

Elder @Ulisses__Soares on those who leave church: "Sincerely rejoice with them in their successes. Be their friends and look for the good in them. We should never give up on them but preserve our relationships. Never reject or misjudge them. Just love them!" #generalconference
— Tad Walch (@Tad_Walch) April 6, 2019

— Jacob Klopfenstein, KSL.com

Saturday, 09:47am

Opening session of general conference is about to begin

Join us for coverage of the first session of the 189th 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. Watch general conference proceedings live:

Latter-day Saints' 189th Annual General Conference concludes; read talk highlights here

By KSL.com | Updated - April 7, 2019 at 4:34 p.m. | Posted - April 6, 2019 at 9:47 a.m.

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General conference sessions conclude

President Russell M. Nelson - Closing remarks

Elder Ronald A. Rasband - Build a fortress of spirituality and protection

Elder Kyle S. McKay - The immediate goodness of God

Elder David A. Bednar - Prepared to obtain every needful thing

Elder Gerrit W. Gong - Good shepherd, lamb of God

Elder Juan Pablo Villar - Exercising our spiritual muscles

President Dallin H. Oaks - Cleansed by repentance

Sunday afternoon session of general conference is about to begin

President Russell M. Nelson - 'Come, Follow Me'

Brother Tad R. Callister - The atonement of Jesus Christ

Elder D. Todd Christofferson - Preparing for the Lord’s return

Elder Quentin L. Cook - Great love for our Father’s children

Sister Sharon L. Eubank - Christ the light that shines in darkness

Elder Dale G. Renlund - 'Abound with blessings'

Sunday morning session of general conference is about to begin

Saturday general conference sessions conclude

President Russell M. Nelson - We can do better and be better

President Dallin H. Oaks - Where will this lead?

President Henry B. Eyring - The power of sustaining faith

Elder Kim B. Clark - Look unto Jesus Christ

Elder Carl B. Cook - The quorum: A place of belonging

Elder Gary E. Stevenson - Your priesthood playbook

Priesthood session of general conference is about to begin

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland - 'Behold the Lamb of God'

Elder David P. Homer - Hearing His voice

Elder Takashi Wada - Feasting upon the words of Christ

Elder Neil L. Andersen - The eye of faith

Elder Mathias Held - Seeking knowledge by the spirit

President M. Russell Ballard - The true, pure, and simple gospel of Jesus Christ

Church calls first African-American General Authority Seventy

Former BYU running back called as new Area Seventy

Changes to the Sunday School General Presidency

Second session of general conference is about to begin

President Henry B. Eyring - A home where the spirit of the Lord dwells

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell - Just as He did

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf - Missionary work: Sharing what is in your heart

Elder Brook P. Hales - Answers to prayer

Sister Becky Craven - Careful vs. casual

Elder Ulisses Soares - How can I understand?

Opening session of general conference is about to begin

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