Saturday morning session: Summaries from Latter-day Saint general conference

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SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is holding its 192nd Annual General Conference Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3. This blog summarizes the key points from the Saturday morning session.

Follow along with our blog updates or watch each session live below.

For a glossary of the Latter-day Saint terminology used in this blog, click here.

Saturday, 12:20 pm

President Henry B. Eyring — Steady in the storms

President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, opened by explaining that God's prophets have seen our time and warned that forces of wickedness will continue to increase."And so it will become more difficult, not easier, to honor the covenants we must make and keep to live the gospel of Jesus Christ," he said.

"It will become more difficult, not easier, to honor the covenants we must make and keep to live the gospel of Jesus Christ." @EyringHB | #GeneralConference

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022Eyring explained that followers of Christ can stay steady in storms ahead of them by building on the rock of the Redeemer. Those storms are the increasing temptations from Satan, and the misery that follows is the effect of sins that are not fully repented."It has never been more important than it is now to understand how to build on that sure foundation," he said.Eyring quoted extensively from King Benjamin's speech to his people, which is found in The Book of Mormon. King Benjamin spoke about how following the evil spirit without repentance will lead to damnation, pain and anguish. But, he explained, if we change our natures and become as a little child and build on the foundation of Christ, we can stand firm.

#preseyring | #generalconference pic.twitter.com/Zl2ap3IHdM

— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 2, 2022He said being like a little child means being loving and obedient, leaning on God for guidance, help and support."But King Benjamin, who understood as well as any mortal what it meant to be a man of strength and courage, makes it clear that to be like a child is not to be childish. It is to be like the Savior," Eyring said.He concluded with a plea for all to accept the invitation to become "like a meek and loving child," and develop faith in Jesus Christ, which would then lead to hope and charity.— Jenny Rollins

Saturday, 12:03 pm

Elder Larry Kacher — Ladder of faith

Elder Larry Kacher, general authority seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, began his talk with a story about Carolyn and Doug Tebbs who were able to take a horrible event, when their daughter was killed as they backed out of a driveway, and let it bring them closer to Christ."Somehow this incredible couple became even more Christlike. More committed. More compassionate. They believed that, in his time, God would consecrate their afflictions for their gain," Elder Kacher said.He said accepting God's will leads to lessons from him, and that faith in Christ can help people find simplicity when they are going through complicated situations."We don't see all things. He does," Elder Kacher said.

"Unbelief blocks our ability to see miracles, whereas a mindset of faith in the Savior unlocks the powers of heaven." ––Elder Larry S. Kacher #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/ym9hvlEaTY

— The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (@Ch_JesusChrist) April 2, 2022He said increases in faith lead to a better understanding of God's relationship with us and a desire to be an instrument in God's hands and learn what he wants us to learn."How high we climb on the ladder of faith is our decision," Elder Kacher said.He said that even when faith is weak, the Lord will still reach out to help us. Once people do everything in their power, all that is needed is to wait for God's salvation, he said."We may stumble if we think everything depends on us. An overdependence on ourselves can impede our ability to access the powers of heaven. But as we move towards true faith in Jesus Christ our mindset begins to change," Elder Kacher said.

"As we accept the Lord's will, he teaches us how to walk with him." #ElderKacher | #GeneralConference

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022Elder Kacher closed his talk by encouraging people to plant and nourish seeds of faith."If you find that your current path is in conflict with your faith in the Savior, then please find your way back to him and to the covenant path. Your exaltation and that of your posterity depend on it," Elder Kacher said.— Emily Ashcraft

Saturday, 11:41 am

Elder Eduardo Gavarret — A mighty change of heart. I have nothing more to give you.

Elder Eduardo Gavarret, general authority seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, described the importance of giving all we have to the Lord.

"Today is the day to decide to follow the Lord Jesus Christ." #ElderGavarret | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/s7st8DJgfN

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022When he was 12 years old, Gavarret recalled telling his mom he wanted to stay home from church with his dad, who was not a member of the church. He said he spent a few minutes with his dad before telling him he was going to play with his friends.As he made his way to an "important soccer game," he had to pass the chapel on the way there. Despite his best efforts, the deacon's quorum adviser saw him running between the trees to the field.The adviser did not tell him he had seen him but instead asked him to teach the priesthood class the following Sunday. That adviser remained "by my side" during the lesson. That day led to a "mighty change of heart," Elder Gavarret said."From that moment on, I began to keep the Sabbath day holy, and over time, in the words of President Russell M. Nelson, the Sabbath day has become a delight," he said.He emphasized the ways we can obtain a "mighty change of heart," by studying scriptures, praying and fasting, and acting according to the words studied or received — and the ways it will bless our lives.

"This change of heart is not an event; it takes faith, repentance, and constant spiritual work to happen. It begins when we desire to submit our will to the Lord, and it materializes when we enter into and keep covenants with Him."#ElderGavarret #GeneralConference #UniverseBYU

— BYU Daily Universe (@UniverseBYU) April 2, 2022"Today is the day to decide to follow the Lord Jesus Christ," Elder Gavarret said. "'Lord, I give you, my heart; I have nothing more to give you.' … when we give our hearts to God, we are rescued from the raging seas of this life, and in the process, we are refined and purified through the atonement of Christ and become children of Christ having been spiritually 'born of Him.'"— Ashley Imlay

Saturday, 11:29 am

President Neil L. Andersen — Following Jesus: Being a peacemaker

President Neil L. Andersen, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, shared a message about maintaining peace even during turbulent times in which contention is spread widely on the internet and social media.When negativity can be instantly multiplied by the internet, good messages can be lost, with "content and anger frequently thundering in our ears," he said.

"In a world of social media and information superhighways, one person's voice can be multiplied exponentially. That voice, whether true or false, whether fair or prejudicial, whether kind or cruel, moves instantly across the world." @AndersenNeilL | #GeneralConference

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022Elder Andersen spoke of how the Savior also lived in times like these, and in reaction to this, he gave the Sermon on the Mount, which spoke of being peacemakers."How does a peacemaker calm and cool the fiery darts? Certainly not by shrinking before those who disparage us. Rather, we remain confident in our faith, sharing our beliefs with conviction, but always void of anger or malice," Elder Andersen said.

#elderandersen | #generalconference pic.twitter.com/VzWJCBYvEv

— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 2, 2022Two important principles guide our desire to be a peacemaker, he explained: Moral agency, and opposition in all things. Because of these coexisting principles, there will be many who don't believe the same thing, but that doesn't have to mean contention."Because of social media platforms, one voice of disbelief can appear to be a multitude of negative voices; but even if it is a multitude of voices, we choose the path of peacemakers," Elder Andersen said.He explained that the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve are not driven by worldly motives and are pleased to work with others in the community in a spirit of trust and mutual respect.

"We, as Latter-day Saints, are 'pleased to be part of a coalition of faith, business, LGBTQ people, and community leaders who have worked together in a spirit of trust and mutual respect.'" #ElderAndersen #GeneralConference #UniverseBYU

— BYU Daily Universe (@UniverseBYU) April 2, 2022Elder Andersen spoke of the heartbreak that comes when people who formerly worshiped with members of the church speak harsh words against it now, but he reminded attendees that this also happened during the Savior's ministry, like when Judas betrayed him. After Judas left, Jesus gave the new commandment to love one another.— Jenny Rollins

Saturday, 11:21 am

Elder David A. Bednar — But we heeded them not

Elder David A. Bednar, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, admitted at the start of his talk that he does "not sing well." Regardless, he said he loves singing hymns and used the hymn "Let Us All Press On" as a theme for his talk.Elder Bednar said these lyrics "admonish us to make an affirmative decision to pay no attention to 'what the wicked may say.'"Elder Bednar said that the doctrine of Jesus Christ can help people have more of an ability to "heed not" distractions, mocking voices and evil influences."As we act in accordance with the truths of his (Christ's) gospel, we are blessed with the spiritual capacity to press forward through the challenges of mortality while focusing on the joys the Savior offers to us," he said.

"I witness that fidelity to the covenants and ordinances of the Savior's restored gospel enables us to press on in the work of the Lord, to hold fast to him as the word of God and to heed not the allurements of the adversary." @BednarDavidA | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/ugxplvHYzn

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022Elder Bednar quoted a line from the song, saying those who do what is right do not need to fear.He said coming unto Christ allows people to receive the blessings of his atonement, and that honoring covenants and ordinances creates a connection with the Lord and helps people draw closer to Him."I witness that the connections with him and Heavenly Father are real and are the ultimate sources of assurance, peace, joy and the spiritual strength that enable us to 'fear not, though the enemy deride," Elder Bednar said.He encouraged people to "hold fast" to the word of God and said those who do can be transformed through living the doctrine."If we abide in Christ, then he will abide in and walk with us," Elder Bednar said.He closed his talk by encouraging people to follow three suggestions, which are enabled through following covenants."Press on. Hold fast. Heed not," Elder Bednar said.— Emily Ashcraft

Saturday, 10:59 am

Sister Reyna I. Aburto — We are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Sister Reyna I. Aburto, second counselor in the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, focused on the ways the church and its organizations enable people to do the Lord's work and build eternal families.She said she attended the church for the first time when she was 26 years old, a time when she had recently separated from her first husband and had a little boy, "and I felt powerless with fear," she said.But when Sister Aburto entered the church meeting, she said she felt filled with warmth and said "it was truly a refuge from the storm."

"My fellow disciples of Christ, let us not underestimate the marvelous work the Lord is doing through us, his church, despite our shortcomings." #SisterAburto | #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/06VpeA7ynb

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022She soon made her baptismal covenants. Many elements needed to be in place for her to receive the blessings that come with the gospel, she said."For me to receive those eternal blessings, many physical and spiritual elements had to be in place. The gospel of Jesus Christ had been restored and preached that meetinghouse had been built and maintained; there was an ecclesiastical structure, from the prophet to local leaders; and a branch filled by covenant members was ready to embrace me and my son as we were brought to the Savior," she said.Sister Aburto emphasized the importance of the church as a "scaffolding" for building eternal families.The Relief Society and other organizations of the church help members "unite our faith, hearts, strengths, minds and hands for Him to perform His mighty miracles," she said.

"Relief Society is not limited to a room in a building, a Sunday lesson, an activity or a presidency at the local or general level. Relief Society is the covenant women of the church." #SisterAburto | #GeneralConference

— GeneralConference (@ldsconf) April 2, 2022She urged members to follow the Lord's counsel to assemble together to prepare to become more like Him."May we respond to this divine invitation and joyfully assemble, organize, prepare, and sanctify ourselves is my humble prayer," Sister Aburto said.— Ashley Imlay

Saturday, 10:47 am

President M. Russell Ballard — Missionary service blessed my life forever

President M. Russell Ballard, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, stated that several years ago, he was speaking in general conference when he began to lose his sight in his left eye due to macular degeneration."As I have dealt with this challenge, I am ever more thankful for other kinds of vision, including hindsight vision," he said.Elder Ballard reminisced on his full-time missionary service in England. At first, he said he was not sure how he would afford to go because of the economic challenges during the Great Depression. But his parents supported him when he surprised them with his mission call."My missionary service prepared me to be a better husband and father and to be successful in business. It also prepared me for a lifetime of service in the Lord's church," he said.

#presballard | #generalconference pic.twitter.com/7jNg6gdHpm

— LDS Living (@LDSLivingMag) April 2, 2022The apostle explained that missionary service can bless your life during the mission and afterward."The Lord knows you. When you are serving your mission, you will have experiences that will help you come to know him better. You will grow spiritually in serving him," he said.It has been almost a decade since the missionary age was lowered for young men and young women. Elder Ballard explained that he saw the main reason for this change was to give more youth the opportunity to serve.

"Commit to yourselves and to Heavenly Father that you will serve a mission and that from this time forward you will strive to keep your hearts, hands, and minds clean and worthy." #PresBallard #GeneralConference #UniverseBYU

— BYU Daily Universe (@UniverseBYU) April 2, 2022He encouraged youth to talk with their parents and parents to talk with their children now about serving a mission."Begin today to talk with your children about missionary service. We know that the family is the most profound influence in helping our young men and young women prepare," he said.He also thanked missionaries currently serving and reminded those who have returned that their activity in the church should continue even after coming home.

"When you are released from your mission, remember that you are not released from activity in the Church."#PresBallard #GeneralConference #UniverseBYU

— BYU Daily Universe (@UniverseBYU) April 2, 2022— Jenny Rollins

Saturday, 10:34 am

President Russell M. Nelson — Preaching the gospel of peace

In his opening remarks, President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, encouraged conferencegoers and church members to focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ to help with difficulties in the world.He emphasized that he prays for those listening every day, and invited people everywhere to pray for others, help others and ask the Lord to help end conflicts in the world."As followers of Jesus Christ, we plead with leaders of nations to find peaceful resolutions to their differences," he said.President Nelson said that prophets have foretold there would be contention at this time."The gospel of Jesus Christ has never been needed more than it is today. Contention violates everything the Savior stood for and taught," President Nelson said.

"Today I reaffirm strongly that the Lord has asked every worthy, able young man to prepare for and serve a mission. … We love sister missionaries and welcome them wholeheartedly." pic.twitter.com/f5HEdxqYgO

— The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (@Ch_JesusChrist) April 2, 2022He said that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the only solution to finding peace in the world. He emphasized that every young man in the church should prepare to serve a mission. He also encouraged young women and senior couples to pray about serving a mission, though, optional."Dear young friends, you are each vital to the Lord. He has held you in reserve until now to help gather Israel," he said.President Nelson echoed his theme from a previous conference, to "let God prevail," and said that the gospel of Jesus Christ should be shared with everyone willing to let God prevail in their lives."May this conference be a time of peace and spiritual feasting for you. May you seek and receive personal revelation during these sessions," he said at the close of his talk.— Emily Ashcraft

Saturday, 9:55 am

Saturday morning session: Summaries from Latter-day Saint general conference

By KSL.com Staff | Updated - April 2, 2022 at 12:03 p.m. | Posted - April 2, 2022 at 9:58 a.m.

Conferencegoers stand as general authorities enter the Conference Center for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' 192nd Annual General Conference in Salt Lake City on Saturday. (Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News)

President Henry B. Eyring — Steady in the storms

Elder Larry Kacher — Ladder of faith

Elder Eduardo Gavarret — A mighty change of heart. I have nothing more to give you.

President Neil L. Andersen — Following Jesus: Being a peacemaker

Elder David A. Bednar — But we heeded them not

Sister Reyna I. Aburto — We are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

President M. Russell Ballard — Missionary service blessed my life forever

President Russell M. Nelson — Preaching the gospel of peace

Saturday morning general conference session begins

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Saturday morning session: Summaries from Latter-day Saint general conference

By KSL.com Staff | Updated - April 2, 2022 at 12:03 p.m. | Posted - April 2, 2022 at 9:58 a.m.

Conferencegoers stand as general authorities enter the Conference Center for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' 192nd Annual General Conference in Salt Lake City on Saturday. (Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News)

President Henry B. Eyring — Steady in the storms

Elder Larry Kacher — Ladder of faith

Elder Eduardo Gavarret — A mighty change of heart. I have nothing more to give you.

President Neil L. Andersen — Following Jesus: Being a peacemaker

​​Elder David A. Bednar — But we heeded them not

​​Sister Reyna I. Aburto — We are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

​​President M. Russell Ballard — Missionary service blessed my life forever

President Russell M. Nelson — Preaching the gospel of peace

Saturday morning general conference session begins

Photos

Related stories

Most recent News stories

Related topics

More stories you may be interested in

Most Viewed

STAY IN THE KNOW

KSL Weather Forecast

Elder David A. Bednar — But we heeded them not

Sister Reyna I. Aburto — We are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

President M. Russell Ballard — Missionary service blessed my life forever