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General Conferences of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints occur so frequently in our community that it becomes easy for many among us to take the semi-annual event for granted.
Yet, what occurs each April and October, though seemingly routine, is a remarkable manifestation of Salt Lake City's prominence as the seat of an influential worldwide religion.
Consider the millions in the far reaches of the world who tune in via radio, television and the Internet to hear the messages of their spiritual leaders. For a couple of days every six-months, devout eyes and ears and hearts in scores of nations are turned toward Salt Lake City.
Then there are those who make the journey to Utah. There's always excitement in the downtown area as wide-eyed pilgrims view sites familiar to them through photographs and film, and now are experienced first-hand.
Of course, the economic impact of thousands of visitors converging on the capital city can't be discounted. Conference is as much a financial boost for many local merchants as it is a spiritual feast for those in search of moral guidance.
KSL, which is owned by the Church and admittedly has a vested interest in the proceedings, hopes the people of Utah never take General Conference for granted. It truly is a remarkable, albeit regular, event.
