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SALT LAKE CITY — Speaking at the beginning of the morning session, Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared a brief message on happiness.
"We need to work and learn, search and pray, repent and improve. We need to know God's laws and live them. Only by doing so will we obtain true happiness,” President Monson said.
Sunday afternoon concluded the 186th semi-annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Conference Center held five sessions over the past two days. Church leaders counseled Latter-day Saints on a range of topics, including staying focused on God and finding happiness — especially when facing life's challenges.
President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, spoke of being thankful for Sunday observance.
"The Sabbath is also a perfect time to remember the covenant we made at the waters of baptism to love and serve Heavenly Father's children,” President Eyring said. “Fulfilling that promise on the Sabbath will include participating in a class or quorum with full purpose of heart to build faith and love among our brothers and sisters.”
President Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, counseled Latter-day Saints to find joy, even when faced with challenges.
"Joy is powerful, and focusing on joy brings God's power into our lives. As in all things, Jesus Christ is our ultimate exemplar, ‘Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross,” President Nelson said.
And for Latter-day Saints who may be faltering in their beliefs, Elder M. Russell Ballard asked others to reach out and embrace them.
"My heartfelt plea is that we will encourage, accept, understand, and love those who are struggling with their faith,” Elder Russell said. “We must never neglect any of our brothers and sisters. We are all at different places on the path and we need to minister to one another accordingly.”
Church leaders did not announce any new temples at this conference, but the Church will dedicate three new temples in the next few weeks in Fort Collins, Colorado; Star Valley, Wyoming; and Hartford, Connecticut.
