THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • MAY 2013

General Conference Addresses New Seventies and Young Women General Presidency Called Two New Temples Announced JOSEPH BRICKEY, MAY NOT BE COPIED MAY JOSEPH BRICKEY, © Seeking Shiloah, by Joseph Brickey The Pool of Shiloah (Siloam) in Jerusalem is fed by a spring located outside the city walls. As the only source of fresh water in the area, the waters of Shiloah have long been a symbol of God’s protection and sustaining power. As recorded in Isaiah 8:6–8, Isaiah prophesied that the kingdom of Israel would reject the Lord in favor of two kings. This came to pass. Unlike those in the time of Isaiah, however, this woman is seeking the fresh waters of Shiloah—hence symbolically seeking God’s ongoing love and protection. Contents May 2013 Volume 43 • Number 5

SATURDAY MORNING SESSION SUNDAY MORNING SESSION GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING 4 Welcome to Conference 70 The Hope of God’s Light 115 Your Holy Places President Thomas S. Monson President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Ann M. Dibb 6 These Things I Know 77 It’s a Miracle 118 When You Save a Girl, You Save President Boyd K. Packer Elder Neil L. Andersen Generations 9 A Sure Foundation 81 The Words We Speak Mary N. Cook Bishop Dean M. Davies Rosemary M. Wixom 121 Be Not Moved! 12 We Are Daughters of Our 83 Marriage: Watch and Learn Elaine S. Dalton Heavenly Father Elder L. Whitney Clayton 125 Your Wonderful Journey Home Elaine S. Dalton 86 Obedience to Law Is Liberty President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 15 The Savior Wants to Forgive Elder L. Tom Perry Elder Craig A. Cardon 72 General Authorities of The Church 89 Obedience Brings Blessings of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 18 “This Is My Work and Glory” President Thomas S. Monson Elder M. Russell Ballard 130 They Spoke to Us: Making Conference Part of Our Lives 22 “Come unto Me” SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION President Henry B. Eyring 93 “Lord, I Believe” 132 Conference Story Index Elder Jeffrey R. Holland 133 Teachings for Our Time SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 96 Followers of Christ 133 General Auxiliary Presidencies 26 The Sustaining of Church Officers Elder Dallin H. Oaks 134 News of the Church President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 99 The Father and the Son 28 Church Auditing Department Elder Christoffel Golden Jr. Report, 2012 102 The Home: The School of Life Robert W. Cantwell Elder Enrique R. Falabella 28 Statistical Report, 2012 104 Being Accepted of the Lord Brook P. Hales Elder Erich W. Kopischke 29 For Peace at Home 107 Beautiful Mornings Elder Richard G. Scott Elder Bruce D. Porter 32 Personal Peace: The Reward of 109 Redemption Righteousness Elder D. Todd Christofferson Elder Quentin L. Cook 113 Until We Meet Again 36 The Lord’s Way President Thomas S. Monson Elder Stanley G. Ellis 39 The Gospel to All the World Elder John B. Dickson 41 We Believe in Being Chaste Elder David A. Bednar 45 Catch the Wave Elder Russell M. Nelson

PRIESTHOOD SESSION 48 Stand Strong in Holy Places Elder Robert D. Hales 52 The Power of the Priesthood in the Boy Elder Tad R. Callister Quick-response (QR) codes have 55 Your Sacred Duty to Minister been provided for the talks by David L. Beck members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve 58 Four Titles Apostles. You may use a camera- President Dieter F. Uchtdorf enabled smartphone or tablet with 62 We Are One a QR-code-reader app to link to a President Henry B. Eyring short video clip (1–2 minutes) from the talk. A URL to this video is also 66 Come, All Ye Sons of God provided. To view the full talk, go President Thomas S. Monson to conference.lds.org. 4 following conference, video and audio Summary for the 183rd Annual recordings are also available at distribution centers. Recordings for individuals who are General Conference deaf are available at languages.lds.org (select ASL) and generally within two months fol- lowing conference from distribution centers SATURDAY MORNING, APRIL 6, 2013, Invocation: Elder Steven E. Snow. (three DVDs with a signing inset). Audio and GENERAL SESSION Benediction: Elder O. Vincent Haleck. Braille files for those who are blind or have Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Music by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack low vision are available at lds.org/go/2BU. Conducting: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Wilberg, director; Andrew Unsworth and Clay For more information, call 1-800-537-5971 or Invocation: Elder Randall K. Bennett. Christiansen, organists: “Go Forth with Faith,” log on to store.lds.org. Benediction: Jean A. Stevens. Hymns, no. 263; “Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise,” Music by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack Hymns, no. 41, arr. Kasen, pub. Jackman; HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, directors; Richard “Come, Follow Me,” Hymns, no. 116, arr. For home and visiting teaching messages, Elliott and Andrew Unsworth, organists: Wilberg, unpublished; “Guide Us, O Thou please select an address that best meets the “Redeemer of Israel,” Hymns, no. 6; “In Great Jehovah,” Hymns, no. 83; “Where Love needs of those you visit. Hymns of Praise,” Hymns, no. 75; “Hark, All Is,” Children’s Songbook, 138, arr. Cardon, ON THE COVER unpublished; “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” Ye Nations!” Hymns, no. 264, arr. Wilberg; Front: Photograph by Leslie Nilsson. Hymns, no. 30, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243; Back: Photograph by Leslie Nilsson. “Faith,” Children’s Songbook, 96, arr. Elliott, SUNDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 7, 2013, unpublished; “My Redeemer Lives,” Hymns, CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY no. 135, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. GENERAL SESSION Scenes of general conference in Salt Lake City Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. were taken by Cody Bell, Randy Collier, Conducting: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. SATURDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 6, 2013, Weston Colton, Scott Davis, Craig Dimond, Invocation: Carole M. Stephens. GENERAL SESSION Lloyd Eldredge, Sarah Jenson, Collin King, Benediction: Elder Larry Y. Wilson. Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Ashlee Larsen, and Leslie Nilsson; in Arizona, Music by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack Conducting: President Henry B. Eyring. USA, by Mindy Sue Evans; in Australia by Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, directors; Linda Invocation: Russell T. Osguthorpe. Colin Ligertwood; in Brasília, Brazil, by Tomé Margetts and Bonnie Goodliffe, organists: Benediction: Elder J. Devn Cornish. Siqueira; in Sobral, Brazil, by Francisco Flávio “Come, Ye Children of the Lord,” Hymns, Music by a combined choir from Brigham Dias Carneiro; in California, USA, by Rhonda no. 58, arr. Murphy, unpublished; “Tell Me Young University; Ronald Staheli and Rosalind Harris; in Chile by Oscar Schmittner; in the Stories of Jesus,” Children’s Songbook, Hall, directors; Bonnie Goodliffe, organist: Denmark by Ann-Mari Lindberg; in Ecuador 57, arr. Murphy, unpublished; “Now Let Us “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee,” Hymns, by Jimmy Padilla Pin; in El Salvador by Josué Rejoice,” Hymns, no. 3; “Lord, Dismiss Us no. 141, arr. Staheli, pub. Jackman; “Did You Peña; in New York, USA, by Mark Weinberg; with Thy Blessing,” Hymns, no. 163, arr. Think to Pray?” Hymns, no. 140, arr. Johnson, in Scotland by Sylvia Mary Brown; and in Wilberg, unpublished. pub. Johnson; “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!” South Africa by Jeremy Rakotomamonjy. Hymns, no. 66; “More Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, no. 131, arr. Staheli, pub. Jackman. SATURDAY EVENING, MARCH 30, 2013, GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING SATURDAY EVENING, APRIL 6, 2013, Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. PRIESTHOOD SESSION Conducting: Elaine S. Dalton. Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Invocation: Ella Edgley. Conducting: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Benediction: Emily Maxwell. Invocation: Elder Ronald A. Rasband. Music by a Young Women choir from stakes Benediction: Larry M. Gibson. in Highland, Utah; Merrilee Webb, director; Music by a priesthood choir from young single Linda Margetts, organist: “High on the adult stakes in Salt Lake City, Utah; Justin Bills, Mountain Top,” Hymns, no. 5, with “Arise” director; Clay Christiansen, organist: “Arise, O descant; “In That Holy Place,” DeFord, pub. God, and Shine,” Hymns, no. 265, arr. Wilberg, DeFord; “More Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, pub. Oxford; “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” no. 131, arr. Goates, unpublished; “O Thou Hymns, no. 100, arr. Bills, unpublished; “Hope Rock of Our Salvation,” Hymns, no. 258, arr. of Israel,” Hymns, no. 259; “Ye Elders of Israel,” Kasen, pub. Jackman; “Let Zion in Her Beauty Hymns, no. 319, arr. Bills, unpublished. Rise,” Hymns, no. 41, arr. Webb, unpublished.

SUNDAY MORNING, APRIL 7, 2013, CONFERENCE TALKS AVAILABLE GENERAL SESSION To access general conference talks on the Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Internet in many languages, visit conference Conducting: President Henry B. Eyring. .lds.org. Generally within two months

May 2013 5 A MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS May 2013 Volume 43 • Number 5 The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson, Neil L. Andersen Editor: Craig A. Cardon Advisers: Shayne M. Bowen, Bradley D. Foster, Cristoffel Golden Jr., Anthony D. Perkins Managing Director: David T. Warner Director of Family and Member Support: Vincent A. Vaughn Director of Church Magazines: Allan R. Loyborg Business Manager: Garff Cannon Managing Editor: R. Val Johnson Assistant Managing Editor: LaRene Porter Gaunt Administrative Assistant: Faith S. Watson Writing and Editing: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, David Dickson, David A. Edwards, Matthew D. Flitton, Mindy Raye Friedman, Lori Fuller, Garrett H. SPEAKER INDEX TOPIC INDEX Loyalty, 83 Garff, Jennifer G. Jones, Hikari Loftus, Michael R. Andersen, Neil L., 77 Activation, 55 Marriage, 83, 102 Morris, Joshua J. Perkey, Richard M. Romney, Paul Ballard, M. Russell, 18 Adversity, 12, 70, 107, 118 VanDenBerghe, Julia Woodbury Missionary work, 4, 39, 45, Editorial Intern: Tara Walker Beck, David L., 55 Agency, 86 62, 66, 77 Atonement, 12, 109, 121 Managing Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen Bednar, David A., 41 Morality, 6, 41, 121 Art Director: Tadd R. Peterson Callister, Tad R., 52 Book of Mormon, 45 Mortality, 125 Design: Jeanette Andrews, Fay P. Andrus, C. Kimball Cardon, Craig A., 15 Children, 81, 102 Obedience, 48, 86, 89 Bott, Thomas Child, Nate Gines, Kerry Lynn C. Christofferson, D. Todd, 109 Church growth, 39 Peace, 29, 32 Herrin, Colleen Hinckley, Susan Lofgren, Eric P. Clayton, L. Whitney, 83 Commandments, 86, 89 Plan of salvation, 41, 125 Johnsen, Scott Mooy, Brad Teare Cook, Mary N., 118 Communication, 81 Prayer, 9, 113 Intellectual Property Coordinator: Cook, Quentin L., 32 Covenants, 104 Premortal existence, 125 Collette Nebeker Aune Dalton, Elaine S., 12, 121 Death, 118 Preparation, 66 Production Manager: Jane Ann Peters Discipleship, 58 Production: Connie Bowthorpe Bridge, Julie Davies, Dean M., 9 Priesthood, 18, 52, 55, 62 Burdett, Bryan W. Gygi, Denise Kirby, Ginny J. Nilson, Dibb, Ann M., 115 Divine nature, 12, 18, 58 Prophets, 36 Gayle Tate Rafferty Dickson, John B., 39 Faith, 83, 93 Repentance, 15, 41, 83, 109 Prepress: Joshua Dennis Ellis, Stanley G., 36 Family, 6, 18, 29, 55, 83, 102, Respect, 83 Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick Eyring, Henry B., 22, 62 118 Restoration, 45 Distribution Director: Evan Larsen Falabella, Enrique R., 102 Family history, 118 Revelation, 52 © 2013 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights Golden, Christoffel, Jr., 99 Forgiveness, 15 Sacrament, 9 reserved. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) is published Hales, Robert D., 48 God the Father, 36, 99 Sacredness, 115 monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT Holland, Jeffrey R., 93 Gratitude, 113 Sacrifice, 104 84150-0024, USA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Kopischke, Erich W., 104 Healing, 58, 70 Scriptures, 66, 102 Lake City, Utah. Monson, Thomas S., 4, 66, Holy Ghost, 6, 115 Scripture study, 9 Copyright information: Text and visual material 89, 113 Home, 29, 102 Service, 22, 55, 58, 109 in the Ensign may be copied for incidental, Nelson, Russell M., 45 Hope, 70, 107 Standards, 48 noncommercial church or home use. Visual material Oaks, Dallin H., 96 Humility, 83, 104 Temples, 4, 32, 121 may not be copied if restrictions are indicated in the Packer, Boyd K., 6 Jesus Christ, 22, 29, 48, 70, credit line with the artwork. Copyright questions Testimony, 18, 66, 93 should be addressed to Intellectual Property Office, Perry, L. Tom, 86 89, 96, 99, 107, 109 Trust, 52 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150- Porter, Bruce D., 107 Leadership, 52 Truth, 89 0018; email: [email protected]. Scott, Richard G., 29 Listening, 81 Unity, 62 POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS (see DMM Uchtdorf, Dieter F., 26, 58, Love, 66, 83, 125 Young women, 12 707.4.12.5). NONPOSTAL AND MILITARY 70, 125 FACILITIES: Send address changes to Distribution Wixom, Rosemary M., 81 Services, Church Magazines, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Canada Post Information: Publication Agreement #40017431.

6 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION | April 6, 2013

By President Thomas S. Monson Welcome to Conference I urge you to be attentive and receptive to the messages which we will hear. That we may do so is my prayer.

y beloved brothers and sisters, celebration in Calgary, inasmuch as how pleased I am to welcome it was Sister Monson’s 85th birth- Myou to the 183rd Annual day and I felt I should be with her. General Conference of the Church. However, she and I were privileged During the six months since last to watch the celebration in our living we met, it has been my opportunity to room over closed-circuit television, travel a bit and to meet with some of and then I flew to Calgary the fol- you in your own areas. Following gen- lowing morning for the dedication. eral conference in October, I traveled In Boise over 9,000 youth from the to Germany, where it was my privilege temple district participated in the cul- to meet with our members at several tural celebration. There were so many locations in that country as well as in young people involved that there parts of Austria. was not room for family members At the end of October, I dedicated to attend in the arena in which they the Calgary Alberta Temple in Canada, performed. with the assistance of Elder and Sister Just last month President Dieter F. M. Russell Ballard, Elder and Sister Uchtdorf, accompanied by Sister It is my privilege this morning to Craig C. Christensen, and Elder and Uchtdorf, Elder and Sister Jeffrey R. announce two additional temples, Sister William R. Walker. In November, Holland, and Elder and Sister which in coming months and years I rededicated the Boise Idaho Temple. Gregory A. Schwitzer, traveled to will be built in the following loca- Also traveling with me and partici- Tegucigalpa, Honduras, to dedicate our tions: Cedar City, Utah, and Rio pating in the dedication were Elder newly completed temple there. A mag- de Janeiro, Brazil. Brothers and and Sister David A. Bednar, Elder and nificent youth celebration took place sisters, temple building continues Sister Craig C. Christensen, and Elder the evening prior to the dedication. unabated. and Sister William R. Walker. There are other temples which As you know, in the October gen- The cultural celebrations held have been announced and which eral conference I announced changes in conjunction with both of these are at various stages in the prelim- in the ages at which young men and dedications were outstanding. I did inary process or which are under young women might serve as full-time not personally attend the cultural construction. missionaries, with the young men now 4 being able to serve at age 18 and the accommodate the increased numbers which the Lord would have us hear at young women at 19. of missionaries. this time. The response of our young people To help maintain this missionary I urge you to be attentive and has been remarkable and inspiring. As force, and because many of our receptive to the messages which we of April 4—two days ago—we have missionaries come from modest cir- will hear. That we may do so is my 65,634 full-time missionaries serving, cumstances, we invite you, as you prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the with over 20,000 more who have are able, to contribute generously Lord, amen. ◼ received their calls but who have not to the General Missionary Fund of yet entered a missionary training cen- the Church. ter and over 6,000 more in the inter- Now, brothers and sisters, we will Short Video Highlight view process with their bishops and hear inspired messages today and Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf1 to stake presidents. It has been necessary tomorrow. Those who will address us watch or share a short video for us to create 58 new missions to have sought prayerfully to know that clip of this message.

May 2013 5 By President Boyd K. Packer Of all the blessings that have come, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The best thing in my life Is the companionship and comfort I get from my dear wife.

Our children all have married well, These Things I Know With families of their own, With children and grandchildren, Of all that I have read and taught and learned, How soon they all have grown. the one most precious and sacred truth that I have I have not changed my mind one bit to offer is my special witness of Jesus Christ. About regaining youth. We’re meant to age, for with it Comes a knowledge of the truth.

n 1992, having served nine years I am quite content to move ahead, You ask, “What will the future as an Assistant to the Twelve To yield my youth, however grand. bring? Iand 22 years as a member of the The thing I’d lose if I went back Just what will be my fate?” Twelve, I reached the age of 68. Is what I understand. I’ll go along and not complain. I felt impressed to start what I Ask when I’m 88! called an “Unfinished Composition.” Ten years later, I decided to add a The first part of that work goes few more lines to that poem: And last year I added these lines: like this: Ten years have flown to who knows And now you see I’m 88. I had a thought the other night, where The years have flown so fast. A thought profound and deep. And with them much of pain. I walked, I limped, I held a cane, It came when I was too worn down, A metal hip erased my limp; And now I ride at last. Too tired to go to sleep. I walk quite straight again. I take a nap now and again, I’d had a very busy day Another plate holds neck bones fast— But priesthood power remains. And pondered on my fate. A wonderful creation! For all the physical things I lack The thought was this: It backed my polio away; There are great spiritual gains. When I was young, I wasn’t 68! I’ve joined the stiff-necked generation. I have traveled the world a million I could walk without a limp; The signs of aging can be seen. miles I had no shoulder pain. Those things will not get better. And another million too. I could read a line through twice The only thing that grows in strength And with the help of satellites, And quote it back again. With me is my forgetter. My journeys are not through.

I could work for endless hours You ask, “Do I remember you?” I now can say with all certainty And hardly stop to breathe. Of course, you’re much the same. That I know and love the Lord. And things that now I cannot do Now don’t go getting all upset I can testify with them of old I mastered then with ease. If I can’t recall your name. As I preach His holy word.

If I could now turn back the years, I would agree I’ve learned some things I know what He felt in Gethsemane If that were mine to choose, I did not want to know, Is too much to comprehend. I would not barter age for youth, But age has brought those precious truths I know He did it all for us; I’d have too much to lose. That make the spirit grow. We have no greater Friend. 6 I know that He will come anew With power and in glory. I know I will see Him once again At the end of my life’s story.

I’ll kneel before His wounded feet; I’ll feel His Spirit glow. My whispering, quivering voice will say, “My Lord, my God, I know.” 1

And I do know! The back windows of our home overlook a small flower garden and the woods which border a small stream. One wall of the house borders on the garden and is thickly covered with English ivy. Most years this ivy has been the nesting place for house finches. The nests in the vines are safe I said to myself, “What is going righteousness quietness and assurance from foxes and raccoons and cats that on? Is the Garden of Eden being for ever.” 2 are about. invaded again?” That peace is also promised in the One day there was a great com- There came into my mind the revelations in which the Lord declares, motion in the ivy. Desperate cries warnings spoken by the prophets. “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.” 3 of distress came as 8 or 10 finches We will not always be safe from the The consummate power of the from the surrounding woods came adversary’s influence, even within our priesthood has been given to protect to join in this cry of alarm. I soon own homes. We need to protect our the home and its inhabitants. The saw the source of the commotion. nestlings. father has the authority and respon- A snake had slid partway down out We live in a very dangerous world sibility to teach his children and to of the ivy and hung in front of the that threatens those things that are bless and to provide for them the window just long enough for me to most spiritual. The family, the funda- ordinances of the gospel and every pull it out. The middle part of the mental organization in time and eter- other priesthood protection necessary. snake’s body had two bulges—clear nity, is under attack from forces seen He is to demonstrate love and fidelity evidence convicting it of taking two and unseen. The adversary is about. and honor to the mother so that their fledglings from the nest. Not in the 50 His objective is to cause injury. If he children can see that love. years we had lived in our home had can weaken and destroy the family, he I have come to know that faith is we seen anything like that. It was a will have succeeded. a real power, not just an expression once-in-a-lifetime experience—or so Latter-day Saints recognize the of belief. There are few things more we thought. transcendent importance of the family powerful than the faithful prayers of a A few days later there was another and strive to live in such a way that righteous mother. commotion, this time in the vines cov- the adversary cannot steal into our Teach yourself and teach your fam- ering our dog run. We heard the same homes. We find safety and security for ilies about the gift of the Holy Ghost cries of alarm, the gathering of the ourselves and our children in hon- and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. neighborhood finches. We knew what oring the covenants we have made You will do no greater eternal work the predator was. A grandson climbed and living up to the ordinary acts of than within the walls of your own onto the run and pulled out another obedience required of the followers of home. snake that was still holding on tightly Christ. We know that we are spirit children to the mother bird it had caught in the Isaiah said, “The work of righteous- of heavenly parents, here on earth to nest and killed. ness shall be peace; and the effect of receive our mortal bodies and to be

May 2013 7 tested. We who have mortal bodies Tolerance is a virtue, but like all intelligence into our minds to prompt have the power over the beings who virtues, when exaggerated, it trans- us, to guide us, to teach us, and to do not.4 We are free to choose what forms itself into a vice. We need to warn us. Each son or daughter of God we will and to pick and choose our be careful of the “tolerance trap” so can know the things they need to acts, but we are not free to choose the that we are not swallowed up in it. know instantly. Learn to receive and consequences. They come as they will The permissiveness afforded by the act on inspiration and revelation. come. weakening of the laws of the land to Of all that I have read and taught Agency is defined in the scriptures tolerate legalized acts of immorality and learned, the one most precious as “moral agency,” which means that does not reduce the serious spiritual and sacred truth that I have to offer we can choose between good and consequence that is the result of the is my special witness of Jesus Christ. evil. The adversary seeks to tempt us violation of God’s law of chastity. He lives. I know He lives. I am His to misuse our moral agency. All are born with the Light of Christ, witness. And of Him I can testify. He is The scriptures teach us “that every a guiding influence which permits each our Savior, our Redeemer. Of this I am man may act in doctrine and principle person to recognize right from wrong. certain. Of this I bear witness in the pertaining to futurity, according to the What we do with that light and how name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ moral agency which I have given unto we respond to those promptings to live NOTES him, that every man may be account- righteously is part of the test of mortality. 1. Boyd K. Packer, “Unfinished Composition,” able for his own sins in the day of “For behold, the Spirit of Christ is 2012. judgment.” 5 given to every man, that he may know 2. Isaiah 32:17. 3. Doctrine and Covenants 38:30. Alma taught that “the Lord cannot good from evil; wherefore, I show 4. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: look upon sin with the least degree of unto you the way to judge; for every Joseph Smith (2007), 211. allowance.” 6 In order to understand thing which inviteth to do good, and 5. Doctrine and Covenants 101:78. 6. Alma 45:16. this, we must separate the sin from to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent 7. John 8:11. the sinner. forth by the power and gift of Christ; 8. Moroni 7:16. For example, when they brought wherefore ye may know with a per- before the Savior a woman taken in fect knowledge it is of God.” 8 adultery, obviously guilty, He dis- Each of us must stay in condi- Short Video Highlight missed the case with five words: “Go, tion to respond to inspiration and Scan this QR code or visit 7 lds.org/go/Apr13Conf2 to and sin no more.” That is the spirit of the promptings of the Holy Ghost. watch or share a short video His ministry. The Lord has a way of pouring pure clip of this message. 8 By Bishop Dean M. Davies in order to successfully withstand the Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric tempests, earthquakes, and calamities of life, we must build upon a sure foundation. The Nephite prophet Helaman gave unmistakable clarity to the importance A Sure Foundation of building our lives on a sure foun- dation, even the foundation of Jesus Let us accept the Savior’s invitation to come unto Him. Christ: “And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of Let us build our lives upon a safe and a sure foundation. our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foun- dation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts n October 17, 1989, while of the fill was rubble dumped into in the whirlwind, yea, when all his driving home after work, I San Francisco Bay after the 1906 San hail and his mighty storm shall beat Owas approaching a stoplight at Francisco earthquake.” 1 upon you, it shall have no power over the intersection of Market and Beale In about 1915, apartment buildings you to drag you down to the gulf of Streets in San Francisco, California. At were erected on the landfill. In the misery and endless wo, because of the that moment I felt the car shake and 1989 earthquake, the water-saturated rock upon which ye are built, which thought, “I must have a flat tire.” As unconsolidated mud, sand, and rubble is a sure foundation, a foundation the car continued to shake, I noticed converted to a liquid-like mass, causing whereon if men build they cannot fall” a bus quite close to me and thought, the buildings to collapse. The buildings (Helaman 5:12). “That bus just hit me!” Then the car were not built on a sure foundation. In the development of modern-day shook more and more, and I thought, The Loma Prieta earthquake temples, careful attention is given to “I must have four flat tires!” But it impacted many lives, including my the design, engineering, and use of wasn’t flat tires or the bus—it was a own. Pondering the events of that day building materials. Thorough testing of powerful earthquake! As I stopped at reaffirms in my mind and heart that the soils and geology takes place on the red light, there were ripples in the the site where a temple will be built. pavement like waves of the sea rolling Studies of wind, rain, and changes in down Market Street. In front of me a the weather for the area are consid- tall office building was swaying from ered so that the completed temple can side to side, and bricks began falling withstand not only storms and climate from an older building to my left as common to an area, but the temple the earth continued to shake. is designed and positioned to with- The Loma Prieta earthquake stand the unexpected earthquakes, struck the San Francisco Bay Area at typhoons, floods, and other natural 5:04 p.m. that day and left as many as calamities that may occur. In many 12,000 people homeless. temples, concrete or steel piles are The earthquake caused severe driven deep into the earth to anchor damage in the San Francisco Bay the temple foundation. Area, most notably on unstable soil Like the designers and builders in San Francisco and Oakland. In of our time, our loving and kind San Francisco, the Marina District Father in Heaven and His Son have had been “built on a landfill made of prepared plans, tools, and other a mixture of sand, dirt, rubble, . . . resources for our use so that we can and other materials containing a high build and frame our lives to be sure percentage of groundwater. Some and unshaken. The plan is the plan of

May 2013 9 Alma taught, “Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day” (Alma 37:37). Sharing our thoughts, feelings, and desires with God through sincere and heartfelt prayer should become to each of us as important and natural as breathing and eating. Searching the scriptures on a salvation, the great plan of happiness. amount or exclusion of any portion of daily basis will also fortify our faith The plan lays out for us a clear picture these elements would make the con- and character. Just as we need food and understanding of the beginning crete weak and not able to perform its to nourish our physical bodies, our and the end and the essential steps, important function. spirits and souls will be replenished including ordinances, which are nec- In like manner, if we do not pro- and strengthened by feasting upon essary for each of Father’s children to vide for an appropriate balance in the words of Christ as contained in the be able to return to His presence and our lives of daily personal prayer and writings of the prophets. Nephi taught, dwell with Him forever. feasting from the scriptures, weekly “Feast upon the words of Christ; for Faith, repentance, baptism, the strengthening from partaking of the behold, the words of Christ will tell gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring sacrament, and frequent participation you all things what ye should do” to the end are part of the “blue- in priesthood ordinances such as (2 Nephi 32:3). prints” of life. They help to form the temple ordinances, we too are at risk While reading the scriptures is appropriate building blocks that will of being weakened in our spiritual good, reading by itself is insufficient anchor our lives to the Atonement structural strength. to capture the full breadth and depth of Christ. These shape and frame Paul, in a letter to the Ephesians, of the Savior’s teachings. Searching, the supporting structure of a per- said it this way, which we can apply to pondering, and applying the words of son’s life. Then, just as temple plans the need for a balanced and integrated Christ as taught in the scriptures will have specifications that give detailed development of our character and bring wisdom and knowledge beyond instructions about how to form and soul: “In whom all the building fitly our mortal understanding. This will integrate essential components, framed together groweth unto an holy strengthen our commitment and pro- praying, reading the scriptures, par- temple in the Lord” (Ephesians 2:21). vide the spiritual reserves to do our taking of the sacrament, and receiv- Prayer is one of the most basic best in all situations. ing essential priesthood ordinances and important foundational building One of the most important steps become the “specifications” that blocks of our faith and character. we can take to strengthen our lives help integrate and bind together the Through prayer we are able to express and remain firmly attached to the structure of life. our gratitude, love, and devotion to foundation of the Savior is to worthily Balance in the application of these God. Through prayer we can submit partake of the sacrament each week. specifications is vital. For example, in our will to His and in return receive The sacrament ordinance affords the process of making concrete, pre- the strength to conform our lives to every Church member the opportunity cise amounts of sand, gravel, cement, His teachings. Prayer is the avenue we to ponder his or her life in advance, and water are used in order to achieve can follow to seek His influence in our to consider the actions or nonactions maximum strength. An incorrect lives, even revelation. that may need to be repented of, and 10 then to partake of the bread and water “Therefore, whoso heareth these unto Him. Let us build our lives upon a as sacred emblems in remembrance sayings of mine and doeth them, I will safe and a sure foundation. of the body and blood of Jesus Christ, liken him unto a wise man, [which] I humbly testify that by anchoring a witness of His Atonement. If we built his house upon a rock— our lives to Jesus Christ and to His partake with sincerity and in humil- “And the rain descended, and the Atonement and by carefully following ity, we renew eternal covenants, are floods came, and the winds blew, and His plans for our happiness, includ- cleansed and sanctified, and receive beat upon that house; and it fell not, ing daily prayer, daily scripture study, the promise that we will have His for it was founded upon a rock. and weekly partaking of the sacra- Spirit to be with us always. The Spirit “And every one that heareth these ment, we will be strengthened, we acts as a type of mortar, a welding link sayings of mine and doeth them will experience real personal growth that not only sanctifies but also brings not shall be likened unto a foolish and a lasting conversion, we will all things to our remembrance and tes- man, [which] built his house upon be better prepared to successfully tifies again and again of Jesus Christ. the sand— withstand the storms and calamities Worthily partaking of the sacrament “And the rain descended, and the of life, we will experience the joy strengthens our personal connection floods came, and the winds blew, and happiness promised, and we to the foundation rock, even to Jesus and beat upon that house; and it fell, will have the confidence that our Christ. and great was the fall of it” (3 Nephi lives have been built upon a sure During His ministry the Savior 14:24–27; see also Matthew 7:24–27). foundation—a foundation that will taught with love and clarity the Brothers and sisters, none of us never fall. In the sacred name of doctrines, principles, and necessary would knowingly construct our homes, Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ actions that would preserve our lives places of work, or sacred houses of and strengthen our character. At the worship on sand or rubble or without NOTE 1. See “1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake,” end of the Sermon on the Mount, He appropriate plans and materials. Let us wikipedia.org/wiki/1989_Loma_Prieta_ stated: accept the Savior’s invitation to come earthquake.

May 2013 11 By Elaine S. Dalton words went deeply into my heart, and Recently Released Young Women General President I felt the powers of heaven reach out and give me a message. I knew I was known by a loving Heavenly Father. I felt I was not alone. I stood in that garden with tears in my eyes. “What- We Are Daughters of e’er thou art, act well thy part.” That simple statement renewed my vision that Heavenly Father knew me and Our Heavenly Father had a plan for my life, and the spirit I felt helped me understand that my part mattered. As daughters of God we are each unique and different in our Later I learned that this saying had circumstances and experiences. And yet our part matters— once motivated the prophet David O. because we matter. McKay while he was serving as a young missionary in Scotland. He had seen it on a stone on a building at a discouraging time in his life and on very week young women all passed away. While we were in his mission, and the words lifted him. over the world repeat the Young Scotland, I felt especially alone and Years later as the building was being EWomen theme. No matter the lan- became discouraged. We danced at a torn down, he made arrangements to guage, each time I hear these words, chapel that night, and then after our obtain the stone and had it placed in “We are daughters of our Heavenly performance we went next door to the the garden at the mission home.3 Father, who loves us, and we love mission home. As I proceeded up the As daughters of God we are each Him,” 1 the Spirit affirms to my soul walk, I saw a stone placed in a well- unique and different in our circum- that they are true. It is not only an kept garden by the gate. On it I read stances and experiences. And yet affirmation of our identity—who we the words, “What-e’er thou art, act our part matters—because we matter. are—but also an acknowledgment of well thy part.” At that moment those Our daily contributions of nurturing, whose we are. We are daughters of an exalted being! In every country and on every continent, I have met confident, artic- ulate young women, filled with light, refined by hard work and trial, pos- sessing pure and simple faith. They are virtuous. They are covenant keep- ers who “stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places.” 2 They know who they are and that they have a significant role to play in building the kingdom of God. When I was in college, I was a member of the BYU International Folk Dancers. One summer our group had the unique privilege to tour the missions in Europe. It was a difficult summer for me because a few months earlier my father had unexpectedly Sydney, Australia 12 teaching, and caring for others may often repeated the scripture: “I, the of the world and step into the king- seem mundane, diminished, difficult, Lord, am bound when ye do what I dom of God? and demeaning at times, and yet as we say; but when ye do not what I say, ye In a morally desensitizing world, remember that first line in the Young have no promise.” 4 That was her motto, young women need women and Women theme—“We are daughters of and she knew it was true. She under- men to “stand as witnesses of God at our Heavenly Father, who loves us”— stood what it meant to be a covenant all times and in all things, and in all it will make all the difference in our keeper. She was never recognized by places.” Never before has this been relationships and our responses. the world. She didn’t want that. She more important than now. Young Recently my magnificent 92-year-old understood who she was and whose women need mothers and mentors mother passed away. She left this mor- she was—a daughter of God. Indeed, who exemplify virtuous womanhood. tal existence as she had lived—quietly. it can be said of our mother that she Mothers, your relationship with your Her life was not what she had planned. acted well her part. daughter is of paramount importance, Her husband, my father, passed away Of women and mothers, President and so is your example. How you love when he was 45, leaving her with three Gordon B. Hinckley once said: and honor her father, his priesthood, children—me and my two brothers. “We must never lose sight of the and his divine role will be reflected She lived 47 years as a widow. She sup- strength of the women. . . . It is moth- and perhaps amplified in your daugh- ported our family by teaching school ers who most directly affect the lives ter’s attitudes and behavior. during the day and teaching piano of their children. . . . It is mothers who What is that part we must all “act lessons at night. She cared for her nurture them and bring them up in well”? The family proclamation is clear: aging father, my grandfather, who lived the ways of the Lord. Their influence “By divine design, fathers are to next door. She made sure that each of is paramount. . . . preside over their families in love and us received a college education. In fact, “. . . They are the creators of life. righteousness and are responsible she insisted on it so that we could be They are the nurturers of children. They to provide the necessities of life and “contributors.” And she never com- are the teachers of young women. They protection for their families. Mothers plained. She kept her covenants, and are our indispensable companions. are primarily responsible for the nur- because she did, she called down the They are our co-workers in building ture of their children. In these sacred powers of heaven to bless our home the kingdom of God. How great is their responsibilities, fathers and mothers and to send miracles. She relied on role, how marvelous their contribution.” 5 are obligated to help one another as the power of prayer, priesthood, and So how do a mother and a father equal partners. . . . covenant promises. She was faithful in instill in their daughter the ennobling “We warn that individuals who her service to the Lord. Her steadfast and eternal truth that she is a daughter violate covenants of chastity, who devotion steadied us, her children. She of God? How do we help her step out abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail

May 2013 13 [a witness] of God at all times and in all things, and in all places.’” In an extremely challenging world, that is what I see young women and women of this Church doing. They are an influence for good. They are virtuous and exemplary, intelligent and industrious. They are making a difference because they are different. They are acting well their part. Years ago when I was vacuum- ing this carpet—trying to act well my small part—I didn’t realize that I would one day stand with my feet on the carpet under this pulpit. Today as a daughter of God, I stand as a witness that He lives. Jesus is the Christ. He is our Redeemer. It is through His infinite atoning sacrifice that I will one day return to live with Him—proven, pure, and sealed in an eternal family. I shall ever praise Him for the privilege of being a woman, a wife, and a mother. to fulfill family responsibilities will one how would women be regarded and I testify that we are led by a prophet day stand accountable before God.” 6 treated? of God, President Thomas S. Monson, In the decadent society of Several years ago, as this and I am grateful for righteous men, Mormon’s time, he lamented that the Conference Center was being built whose priesthood power blesses my women were robbed of that which and nearing completion, I entered this life. And I shall ever be grateful for was most dear and precious above sacred building on the balcony level the strength I receive through the all—their virtue and chastity.7 in a hard hat and safety glasses, ready enabling power of the Savior’s infinite Again I renew the call for a return to vacuum the carpet that my hus- Atonement as I continue to strive to to virtue. Virtue is the strength and band was helping to install. Where the “act well [my] part.” In the name of power of daughters of God. What rostrum now stands was a front-end Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ would the world be like if virtue—a loader moving dirt, and the dust in this NOTES pattern of thought and behavior based building was thick. When it settled, it 1. Young Women Personal Progress (booklet, on high moral standards, including did so on the new carpet. My part was 2009), 3. 8 2. Mosiah 18:9. chastity —were reinstated in our to vacuum. And so I vacuumed and 3. See Matthew O. Richardson, “‘What E’er society as a most highly prized value? vacuumed and vacuumed. After three Thou Art, Act Well Thy Part’: John Allan’s If immorality, pornography, and abuse days my little vacuum burned up! Albany Crescent Stone,” Journal of Mormon History, vol. 33 (Fall 2007), 31–61; Francis M. decreased, would there be fewer The afternoon before the first Gibbons, David O. McKay: Apostle to the broken marriages, broken lives, and general conference in this beautiful World, Prophet of God (1986), 45. broken hearts? Would media ennoble building, my husband called me. He 4. Doctrine and Covenants 82:10. 5. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Standing Strong and enable rather than objectify and was about to install the last piece of and Immovable,” Worldwide Leadership degrade God’s precious daughters? carpet—under this historic pulpit. Training Meeting, Jan. 10, 2004, 21. If all humanity really understood the He asked, “What scripture should I 6. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 129. importance of the statement “We are write on the back of this carpet?” 7. See Moroni 9:9. daughters of our Heavenly Father,” And I said, “Mosiah 18:9: ‘Stand as 8. See Young Women Personal Progress, 70. 14 By Elder Craig A. Cardon In this forgiveness we see the Of the Seventy enabling and the redeeming power of the Atonement harmoniously and graciously applied. If we exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the enabling power of His Atonement strengthens The Savior Wants us in our moment of need,14 and His redeeming power sanctifies us as we “[put] off the natural man.” 15 This to Forgive brings hope to all, especially to those who feel that recurring human weak- ness is beyond the Savior’s willingness The Lord loves us and wants us to understand to help and to save. His willingness to forgive. Providing an opportunity for the Savior to enlighten our understand- ing,16 Peter once inquired how many times he should forgive his brother and uring the time of our Savior’s the Savior’s words, the scribes and then asked, “Till seven times?” Surely mortal ministry, many followed Pharisees had begun to reason among that would be more than enough. But Dafter Him, including scribes themselves, ignorantly speaking of the Savior’s response opened wide the and Pharisees “out of every town of blasphemy while concluding that only door to His merciful heart: “I say not Galilee, . . . Judaea, and Jerusalem.” 1 God can forgive sin. Perceiving their unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until A bedridden, paralyzed man desiring thoughts, the Savior addressed them, seventy times seven.” 17 to be healed was brought to a large saying: gathering, but unable to get him close “What reason ye in your hearts? to the Savior, his friends took him to “Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins the roof of the house where the Savior be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up was and lowered him down. Seeing and walk?” 9 this demonstration of faith, with a Not waiting for their response, the great purpose not yet known to His Savior continued, “But that ye may listeners, the Savior declared, “Man, know that the Son of man hath power thy sins are forgiven thee.” 2 upon earth to forgive sins, [He then This must have surprised the man, turned to the paralyzed man] I say unto and although the scriptures say noth- thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and ing of his reaction, he may have won- go into thine house.” 10 And he did! dered if the Savior really understood By this miraculous physical healing, why he had come. the Savior confirmed to all of us this The Savior knew that many people infinitely more powerful spiritual truth: followed Him because of His mighty the Son of Man forgives sins! miracles. Already He had turned water While this truth is readily accepted to wine,3 cast out unclean spirits,4 and by all believers, not so easily acknowl- healed the nobleman’s son,5 a leper,6 edged is the essential companion truth: Peter’s mother-in-law,7 and many the Savior forgives sins “upon earth” others.8 and not just at the Final Judgment. He But with this paralyzed man, the does not excuse us in our sins.11 He Lord chose to give evidence to both does not condone our return to past disciple and detractor of His unique sins.12 But when we repent and obey role as Savior of the world. Hearing His gospel, He forgives us.13

May 2013 15 as we repent and seek His forgiveness, He forgives again and again.31 Because of this, all of us, including those struggling to overcome addictive behaviors such as substance abuse or pornography and those close to them, can know that the Lord will recognize our righteous efforts and will lovingly forgive when repentance is complete, “until seventy times seven.” But this does not mean one may willingly return to sin with impunity.32 The Lord is always interested in our hearts,33 and rationalized false faith does not justify sin.34 In this dispensa- tion the Lord warned one of His ser- vants against such rationalization by The Lord loves us and wants us to may ultimately “overcome the world.” declaring, “Let [him] be ashamed of the understand His willingness to forgive. How is that compassion made mani- Nicolaitane band and of all their secret On more than 20 occasions in the fest? To these same elders in Kirtland, abominations.” 35 The Nicolaitans were Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord He said, “I have forgiven you your an ancient religious sect that claimed told those to whom He was speaking, sins.” 23 The Savior wants to forgive. license to commit sexual sin by virtue “Thy sins are forgiven thee,” or similar No one need suppose that this of the Lord’s grace.36 This is not pleas- words.18 On about half of those occa- forgiveness comes without repentance. ing to the Lord.37 His compassion and sions, the Lord’s words were directed Indeed, the Lord has declared, “I, the grace do not excuse us when “[our] specifically to the Prophet Joseph Lord, forgive sins unto those who hearts are not satisfied. And [we] obey Smith, sometimes addressing him confess their sins before me and ask not the truth, but have pleasure in alone, sometimes with others.19 The forgiveness,” and then He adds the cau- unrighteousness.” 38 Rather, after we first of these was recorded in 1830, the tionary qualifier “who have not sinned do all we can do,39 His compassion last in 1843. Thus, over a span of many unto death.” 24 While the Lord “cannot and grace are the means whereby “in years, the Lord told Joseph repeatedly, look upon sin with the least degree of process of time” 40 we overcome the “Thy sins are forgiven thee.” allowance,” 25 yet He differentiates the world through the enabling power While Joseph was not “guilty of relative gravity of some sins. He stip- of the Atonement. As we humbly any great or malignant sins,” 20 we do ulates there will be no forgiveness for seek this precious gift, “weak things well to remember that with very few “blasphemy against the Holy Ghost.” 26 become strong unto [us],” 41 and by His exceptions, the Lord’s “seventy times He declares the gravity of murder 27 and strength, we are made able to do that seven” does not limit forgiveness emphasizes the seriousness of sexual which we could never do alone. according to the seriousness of the sin. sin such as adultery. 28 With regard to The Lord looks upon the light we While speaking to elders assembled repeated serious sexual sin, He makes have received,42 the desires of our in Kirtland, the Lord said, “I will that known the increased difficulty of receiv- hearts,43 and our actions,44 and when ye should overcome the world; where- ing His forgiveness.29 And He has said we repent and seek His forgiveness, He fore I will have compassion upon that “he who sins against the greater forgives. As we consider our own lives you.” 21 The Lord knows our weak- light shall receive the greater condem- and the lives of our loved ones and ness and the eternal consequences of nation.” 30 Yet, in His mercy, He allows acquaintances, we should be equally “the world” upon imperfect men and for improvement over time rather than willing to forgive ourselves and others.45 women.22 The word wherefore in this demanding immediate perfection. Even Preach My Gospel speaks of the verse is His affirmation that it is only with the multitude of sins occasioned difficulty in overcoming addictive by virtue of His compassion that we by the weakness of mortality, as often behavior and encourages priesthood 16 leaders and members to “not be us to repent 53 and to forgive.54 And NOTES shocked or discouraged” if inves- although repentance is not easy, as we 1. Luke 5:17; see also Mark 2:2. 2. Luke 5:20; see also Matthew 9:2; Mark 2:5. tigators or new members continue strive with all our hearts to obey His 3. See John 2:1–11. to struggle with such problems. gospel, He gives this promise: “Verily 4. See Mark 1:21–28; Luke 4:33–37. Rather, we are counseled to “show I say unto you, notwithstanding [your] 5. See John 4:46–54. 6. See Matthew 8:1–4; Mark 1:40–45; Luke confidence in the individual and sins, my bowels are filled with compas- 5:12–15. not be judgmental . . . [treating] it sion towards [you]. I will not utterly 7. See Matthew 8:14–15; Mark 1:29–31; Luke 4:38–39. as a temporary and understandable cast [you] off; and in the day of wrath 8. See Matthew 8:16–17; Mark 1:32–34; Luke 46 55 setback.” Could we do less with I will remember mercy.” The Savior 4:40–41. our own children or family members wants to forgive. 9. Luke 5:22–23; see also Matthew 9:3–5; Mark 2:6–9. who struggle with similar problems, Each week the Mormon Tabernacle 10. Luke 5:24; emphasis added; see also having temporarily strayed from the Choir begins its inspiring broadcast Matthew 9:6–7; Mark 2:10–12. path of righteousness? Surely they with the uplifting words of William W. 11. See 1 Corinthians 6:9–10; Alma 11:34, 37; Helaman 5:10–11. merit our steadiness, patience, and Phelps’s familiar hymn “Gently Raise the 12. See 2 Peter 2:20; James 2:10; Doctrine and love—and yes, our forgiveness. Sacred Strain.” Not as familiar are the Covenants 82:7. In general conference just last comforting words of the fourth verse: 13. See Isaiah 1:18; Jeremiah 31:34; Luke 7:36–50; Enos 1:5; Alma 24:10; Moroni 6:8; October, President Monson counseled: Doctrine and Covenants 1:32; 58:42–43. “We need to bear in mind that peo- Holy, holy is the Lord. 14. See Jacob 4:7; Alma 14:26; Moroni 10:7. ple can change. They can put behind Precious, precious is his word: . . . 15. Mosiah 3:19; see also 2 Nephi 10:24–25. 16. See Alma 32:28, 34. them bad habits. They can repent Repent and live; 17. Matthew 18:21–22; emphasis added; see from transgressions. . . . Tho your sins be crimson red, also Luke 17:1–4. 56 18. See Doctrine and Covenants 20:5–7; 25:3; “. . . We can help them to over- Oh, repent, and he’ll forgive. 29:3; 31:5; 36:1; 50:36; 60:6–7; 61:2; 62:3; come their shortcomings. We must 64:1–4, 5–7, 15–17; 75:6–8; 82:1; 84:60–61; develop the capacity to see men not I invite you to remember and 90:1, 6; 108:1; 110:5; 112:3; 124:74–76, 78; 132:50. as they are at present but as they may believe the words of the Lord and 19. See Doctrine and Covenants 20:5–7; 29:3; become.” 47 to exercise faith in Him unto repen- 60:6–7; 61:2; 62:3; 64:5–7; 84:60–61; 90:1; At an early conference of the tance.57 He loves you. He wants to 110:5; 132:50. 20. Joseph Smith—History 1:28. Church, similar to this conference, the forgive. I so testify in the sacred name 21. Doctrine and Covenants 64:2; emphasis Lord told the members: of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ added. “Verily I say unto you, ye are clean, but not all; . . . “For all flesh is corrupted before me. . . . “. . . For verily some of you are guilty before me, but I will be merciful unto your weakness.” 48 His message is the same today. Our Heavenly Father knows what we are facing, that we all sin and “come short of the glory of God” 49 again and again. He sent His Son, who “knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor them who are tempted.” 50 His Son teaches us to “pray always that [we] enter not into temptation.” 51 We are told to “cry unto [God] for mercy; for he is mighty to save.” 52 The Savior commands

May 2013 17 22. See 1 Nephi 20:9–11; Doctrine and By Elder M. Russell Ballard Covenants 24:2; 50:41; 63:47; 108:1–8. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 23. Doctrine and Covenants 64:3. 24. Doctrine and Covenants 64:7. 25. Doctrine and Covenants 1:31; see also verses 32–33; Alma 45:16. 26. Doctrine and Covenants 132:27; see also Matthew 12:31; Luke 12:10. 27. See Exodus 20:13; Mosiah 13:21; Doctrine “This Is My Work and Covenants 132:19; Moses 5:31–36. 28. See Alma 39:5; Doctrine and Covenants 42:24–26. 29. See Doctrine and Covenants 42:22–26, and Glory” 75–78, 80–82; 63:13–17; 76:103. 30. Doctrine and Covenants 82:3; see also John 15:22. 31. See Moroni 6:8. God has freely given His power to those who accept 32. See Mosiah 15:26. and honor His priesthood, which leads to the promised 33. See 1 Samuel 16:7; Psalm 24:3–4; Proverbs 23:7; Matthew 15:18–20; Mark 7:20–23; blessings of immortality and eternal life. Hebrews 3:12; 3 Nephi 12:19; Doctrine and Covenants 59:8; 64:34. 34. See Doctrine and Covenants 20:29–30; 121:37. 35. Doctrine and Covenants 117:11. resident Packer, we’re all looking know that the source of this priest- 36. See Bible Dictionary, “Nicolaitans.” forward to the 98 version of that hood power is God Almighty and 37. See Revelation 2:6, 15. wonderful poem. What a wonder- His Son, Jesus Christ. Not only is the 38. Doctrine and Covenants 56:15. P 39. See 2 Nephi 25:23; Doctrine and Covenants ful instruction he gave to us. priesthood the power by which the 138:4. A few weeks ago, on a cold, dark heavens and the earth were created, 40. Moses 7:21. winter’s night, my wife, Barbara, and but it is also the power the Savior 41. Ether 12:27. 42. See John 15:22; Doctrine and Covenants I looked in awe up at the sky. The used in His mortal ministry to perform 1:33; 82:3. millions of stars seemed exceptionally miracles, to bless and heal the sick, 43. See Alma 41:5–6; 3 Nephi 9:20; Doctrine bright and beautiful. I then turned to to bring the dead to life, and, as our and Covenants 137:9. 44. See 1 Nephi 15:33; Alma 41:3–4; Doctrine the Pearl of Great Price and read again Father’s Only Begotten Son, to endure and Covenants 137:9. with wonder what the Lord God said the unbearable pain of Gethsemane 45. See Matthew 6:14–15; Doctrine and to Moses: “And worlds without num- and Calvary—thus fulfilling the laws Covenants 64:8–10; 98:39–48. 46. Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary ber have I created; and I also created of justice with mercy and providing Service (2004), 189. them for mine own purpose; and by an infinite Atonement and over- 47. Thomas S. Monson, “See Others as They the Son I created them, which is mine coming physical death through the May Become,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 68, 69; emphasis added. Only Begotten” (Moses 1:33). Resurrection. 48. Doctrine and Covenants 38:10–11, 14; In our day the Hubble deep-space It is the keys of this priesthood emphasis added. telescope has confirmed the mag- authority and resultant power that He 49. Romans 3:23. nitude of what Moses saw. Hubble gave to Peter, James, and John and His 50. Doctrine and Covenants 62:1; see also Alma 7:12. scientists say the Milky Way galaxy, other Apostles to bless others and to 51. Doctrine and Covenants 61:39; emphasis of which our earth and sun are just a bind in heaven that which is bound added. tiny part, is estimated to be only one on earth. 52. Alma 34:18; emphasis added; see also 2 Nephi 31:19; Alma 7:14. of over 200 billion similar galaxies. The power of the priesthood is a 53. See Helaman 13:11; Doctrine and For me it is difficult to comprehend, sacred and essential gift of God. It Covenants 19:4, 13–21. impossible to fathom, so large and so is different from priesthood author- 54. See Doctrine and Covenants 64:8–10. 55. Doctrine and Covenants 101:9; emphasis vast are God’s creations. ity, which is the authorization to act added; see also Doctrine and Covenants Brothers and sisters, the power by in God’s name. The authorization 82:1–7. which the heavens and earth were and or ordination is given by the lay- 56. “Gently Raise the Sacred Strain,” Hymns, no. 146. are created is the priesthood. Those ing on of hands. The power of the 57. See Alma 34:15–17. of us who are members of the Church priesthood comes only when those 18 who exercise it are worthy and In our Heavenly Father’s great the power of the priesthood. Central acting in accordance with God’s will. priesthood-endowed plan, men have to God’s plan for His spirit children As President Spencer W. Kimball the unique responsibility to administer is His own declaration: “This is my declared, “The Lord has given to all the priesthood, but they are not the work and my glory—to bring to pass of us, as holders of the priesthood, priesthood. Men and women have the immortality and eternal life of certain of his authority, but we can different but equally valued roles. Just man” (Moses 1:39). only tap the powers of heaven on as a woman cannot conceive a child In the revelation given to the the basis of our personal righteous- without a man, so a man cannot fully Prophet Joseph Smith in section 81 ness” (“Boys Need Heroes Close By,” exercise the power of the priesthood of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Ensign, May 1976, 45). to establish an eternal family without a Lord explains that the power of the During the glorious days of the woman. In other words, in the eternal priesthood is to be used to “succor Restoration and the reestablishment perspective, both the procreative the weak, lift up the hands which of the Church of Jesus Christ in the power and the priesthood power are hang down, and strengthen the feeble world today, John the Baptist; Peter, shared by husband and wife. And knees” (verse 5). James, and John; Moses; Elias; and as husband and wife, a man and a “And in doing [such] things thou wilt Elijah came to the earth and restored woman should strive to follow our do the greatest good unto thy fellow through the Prophet Joseph Smith all Heavenly Father. The Christian virtues beings, and wilt promote the glory of of the keys and authority of the priest- of love, humility, and patience should him who is your Lord” (D&C 81:4). hood for the work of God in these be their focus as they seek the bless- As we think about the imagery latter days. ings of the priesthood in their lives of succoring the weak, lifting up the It is by these keys, this authority, and for their family. hands which hang down, and strength- and this power that the Church of Jesus It is crucial for us to understand ening feeble knees, I am reminded of Christ is organized today, with Christ at that Heavenly Father has provided a sweet seven-year-old showing her the head directing His living prophet, a way for all of His sons and His grandfather a small tomato plant she Thomas S. Monson, and assisted by daughters to have access to the had started from seed as part of a duly called and ordained Apostles. blessings of and be strengthened by second-grade school project.

May 2013 19 She explained that from one tiny of the Savior’s eternal love and priest- things that the Savior would do if He seed would come a plant. And if the hood power. were ministering among us today. plant were cared for, it would grow Those who hold the priesthood And the primary purpose of this many tomatoes that would each have and fail to constantly strive to honor it priesthood power is to bless, sanctify, many seeds. by serving our families and others will and purify us so we can live together She said, “And if all of those seeds be like those who do not receive the with our families in the presence of our were planted and grew more toma- blessings inherent in the power of the heavenly parents, bound by priesthood toes, and you planted all of those priesthood and will surely wilt spiri- sealings, participating in the marvelous seeds, in a few seasons you would tually, having deprived themselves of work of God and Jesus Christ in forever have millions of tomatoes.” the essential spiritual nutrients, light, expanding Their light and glory. “All,” she said in amazement, “from and power of God in their lives— To this end, a few months ago I one little seed.” much like the tomato plant so full of had the opportunity to participate But then she said, “I almost killed potential but neglected and wilted. in making a video-based worldwide my plant. I left it in a dark room and The same priesthood power that leadership training presentation forgot to water it. When I remembered created worlds, galaxies, and the called Strengthening the Family and the plant, it was all wilted and dead universe can and should be part of the Church through the Priesthood. looking. I cried because I thought of our lives to succor, strengthen, and This innovative and instructive DVD all of those millions of tomatoes that bless our families, our friends, and our is translated into 66 languages. It teaches would never grow.” neighbors—in other words, to do the how the power of the priesthood can She was then excited to tell her bless, vitalize, and revitalize our lives, grandfather about the “miracle” that the lives of our families, and the lives of happened. all the members of the Church. She explained, “Momma said It shows us all—men, women, chil- maybe the plant wasn’t dead. Maybe dren; married, widowed, or single; no all it needed was some water and matter what our circumstances—how some light to bring life back. we can be partakers of the blessings “And she was right. I gave the of the priesthood. There are several plant some water, and I put it in the 8- to 12-minute segments that explain window for light. And guess what?” the keys, authority, and power of the she asked. “It came back to life, and priesthood and how it strengthens now it’s going to grow millions of individuals, families, and the Church. tomatoes!” One special scene was filmed in the Her small tomato plant, so full very small pioneer home of my moth- of potential but so weakened and er’s great-grandmother Mary Fielding wilted from unintentional neglect, was Smith. She was the widow of Hyrum, strengthened and revived through the the Prophet Joseph’s older brother. As simple ministration of water and light by a single parent, through her strong faith the little girl’s loving and caring hands. in the priesthood, she called upon and Brothers and sisters, as the literal relied on that power to raise and bless spirit children of our loving Heavenly her children in love and the light of the Father, we have unlimited, divine gospel. Today her posterity of thou- potential. But if we are not careful, we sands of faithful leaders and members can become like the wilted tomato of the Church thank her for her faith, plant. We can drift away from the true courage, and example. doctrine and gospel of Christ and This new leadership training is become spiritually undernourished now available on the Internet at and wilted, having removed ourselves LDS.org for all to see and experience from the divine light and living waters (wwlt.lds.org). You can stream it live 20 from LDS.org, or you can download Jesus said: is an everlasting principle, and existed it to your computer, smartphone, or “If any man thirst, let him come with God from eternity, and will to tablet devices. unto me, and drink” ( John 7:37). eternity, without beginning of days or The First Presidency has asked “Whosoever drinketh of the water end of years” (Teachings of Presidents “stake presidencies and bishoprics that I shall give him shall never thirst; of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 104). to dedicate one or more stake or but the water that I shall give him shall God has freely given His power ward council meetings to viewing the be in him a well of water springing up to those who accept and honor His [entire] DVD. Stake and ward councils into everlasting life” ( John 4:14). priesthood, which leads to the promised should discuss how to implement the “I am the light of the world: he that blessings of immortality and eternal life. teachings that are presented” (First followeth me . . . shall have the light I testify that the work of Jesus Presidency letter, Feb. 1, 2013). of life” ( John 8:12). Christ is accomplished through the The content will inspire and moti- If any one of you feels your faith or priesthood. It is the power by which vate members in priesthood quorums, your testimony of Heavenly Father’s our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Relief Society, Sunday School, Young plan is less than you know it should Son created this earth and set in Women, Young Men (especially be, then turn more fully to the Savior. motion the great plan of happiness those preparing for missions), and in Let His light and His living water do for our sakes. May we be wise and Primary meetings or combined fifth- for you and your family what a little seek to strengthen our own lives, the Sunday gatherings. Council members water and light did in bringing life lives of our families, and The Church will then be able to encourage individ- back to the weakened tomato plant. of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uals and parents to use this presenta- Now, I began with the wonder and through the power of the priesthood tion with their families. Brothers and awe in the creations of God through of God is my humble prayer in the sisters, this leadership training is for the power of the priesthood. I stand name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ every member of the Church. Parents, here wondering, as I suppose most of review, share, and discuss what you you also do, if God’s power to instruct learn and feel with your children, and bless us can ever be fully compre- Short Video Highlight and let them watch and do the same hended. It is so great, so majestic, so Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf3 to with you, that your families may be powerful. watch or share a short video strengthened through the priesthood. Joseph Smith said, “The Priesthood clip of this message.

May 2013 21 By President Henry B. Eyring them, I knew I could go back again to First Counselor in the First Presidency have the Holy Ghost let me feel what two disciples of the risen Lord had felt when He accepted their invitation to come into their home and to abide with them. “Come unto Me” I read of the third day after His Crucifixion and burial. Faithful women By His words and His example, Christ has shown us and others found the stone rolled away from the tomb and saw that His how to draw closer to Him. body was not there. They had come out of love for Him to anoint His body. Two angels stood by and asked why they were afraid, saying: am grateful to be with you in this simple acts of obedience to the “Why seek ye the living among conference of The Church of Jesus commandments. the dead? I Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is His You have had such experiences. “He is not here, but is risen: Church. We take His name upon us as It may have been when you chose to remember how he spake unto you we enter His kingdom. He is God, the attend a sacrament meeting. It was when he was yet in Galilee, Creator, and perfect. We are mortals for me on a Sabbath when I was very “Saying, The Son of man must be subject to death and sin. Yet in His young. In those days we received the delivered into the hands of sinful men, love for us and our families, He invites sacrament during an evening meeting. and be crucified, and the third day us to be close to Him. Here are His The memory of one day more than 65 rise again.” 4 words: “Draw near unto me and I will years ago, when I kept the command- The Gospel of Mark adds the direc- draw near unto you; seek me dili- ment to gather with my family and tion from one of the angels: “But go gently and ye shall find me; ask, and with the Saints, still draws me closer your way, tell his disciples and Peter ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be to the Savior. that he goeth before you into Galilee: opened unto you.” 1 It was dark and cold outside. I there shall ye see him, as he said At this Easter season we are remember feeling light and warmth unto you.” 5 reminded of why we love Him and in the chapel that evening with my The Apostles and disciples had of the promise He makes to His faith- parents. We partook of the sacrament, gathered in Jerusalem. As we might ful disciples to become His beloved administered by Aaronic Priesthood have been, they were afraid and won- friends. The Savior made that promise holders, covenanting with our dered as they spoke together about and told us how, in our service to Heavenly Father to always remember what death and reports of His being Him, He comes to us. One example is His Son and keep His commandments. resurrected meant for them. in a revelation to Oliver Cowdery as At the end of the meeting we Two of the disciples walked that he served the Lord with the Prophet sang the hymn “Abide with Me; ’Tis afternoon from Jerusalem on the road Joseph Smith in the translation of Eventide,” with the words in it “O to Emmaus. The resurrected Christ the Book of Mormon: “Behold, thou Savior, stay this night with me.” 3 appeared on the road and walked with art Oliver, and I have spoken unto I felt the Savior’s love and closeness them. The Lord had come to them. thee because of thy desires; therefore that evening. And I felt the comfort of The book of Luke allows us to walk treasure up these words in thy heart. the Holy Ghost. with them: Be faithful and diligent in keeping the I wanted to rekindle once again “And it came to pass, that, while commandments of God, and I will the feelings of the love of the Savior they communed together and rea- encircle thee in the arms of my love.” 2 and His closeness I felt during that soned, Jesus himself drew near, and I experienced the joy of coming sacrament meeting in my youth. So went with them. closer to the Savior and of His com- recently I kept another command- “But their eyes were holden that ing closer to me most often through ment. I searched in the scriptures. In they should not know him. 22 “And he said unto them, What man- ner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? “And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?” 6 They told Him of their sadness that Jesus had died when they had trusted He would be the Redeemer of Israel. There must have been affection in the risen Lord’s voice as He spoke to these two sorrowful and mourning disciples: “Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” 7 the way, and while he opened to us then. We are witnesses of these things. Then came a moment that has the scriptures?” 9 And the glorious charge we accepted warmed my heart since I was a little At that same hour, the two disciples as we were baptized into The Church boy: rushed back to Jerusalem to tell the of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints “And they drew nigh unto the vil- eleven Apostles what had happened was made plain for us by the prophet lage, whither they went: and he made to them. In that moment the Savior Alma centuries ago at the waters of as though he would have gone further. appeared again. Mormon: “But they constrained him, saying, He reviewed the prophecies of “And it came to pass that he said Abide with us: for it is toward evening, His mission to atone for the sins of all unto them: Behold, here are the and the day is far spent. And he went His Father’s children and to break the waters of Mormon (for thus were they in to tarry with them.” 8 bands of death. called) and now, as ye are desirous to The Savior accepted that night the “And said unto them, Thus it is come into the fold of God, and to be invitation to enter the house of His written, and thus it behoved Christ to called his people, and are willing to disciples near the village of Emmaus. suffer, and to rise from the dead the bear one another’s burdens, that they He sat at meat with them. He took third day: may be light; bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave “And that repentance and remis- “Yea, and are willing to mourn with it to them. Their eyes were opened sion of sins should be preached in his those that mourn; yea, and comfort so that they knew Him. Then He name among all nations, beginning at those that stand in need of comfort, vanished out of their sight. Luke Jerusalem. and to stand as witnesses of God at recorded for us the feelings of those “And ye are witnesses of these all times and in all things, and in all blessed disciples: “And they said one things.” 10 places that ye may be in, even until to another, Did not our heart burn The Savior’s words are true as well death, that ye may be redeemed of within us, while he talked with us by for us as they were for His disciples God, and be numbered with those of

May 2013 23 exercise their faith will bring the Lord’s servants to help your family mem- bers. They will help them choose the way home to God, even as they are attacked by Satan and his followers, whose purpose it is to destroy families in this life and in eternity. You remember the words spoken by the angel to Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah in their rebellion: “And again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of the first resurrection, that ye may have give devoted service to Him, He draws his people, and also the prayers of eternal life— closer to those we love in our families. his servant, Alma, who is thy father; “Now I say unto you, if this be the Every time I have been called in the for he has prayed with much faith desire of your hearts, what have you Lord’s service to move or to leave my concerning thee that thou mightest against being baptized in the name family, I have come to see that the be brought to the knowledge of the of the Lord, as a witness before him Lord was blessing my wife and my truth; therefore, for this purpose have that ye have entered into a covenant children. He prepared loving servants I come to convince thee of the power with him, that ye will serve him and of His and opportunities to draw my and authority of God, that the prayers keep his commandments, that he may family closer to Him. of his servants might be answered pour out his Spirit more abundantly You have felt that same blessing according to their faith.” 14 upon you? in your lives. Many of you have loved My promise to you who pray and “And now when the people had ones who are wandering off the path serve the Lord cannot be that you will heard these words, they clapped their to eternal life. You wonder what more have every blessing you may wish for hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is you can do to bring them back. You yourself and your family. But I can the desire of our hearts.” 11 can depend on the Lord to draw closer promise you that the Savior will draw We are under covenant both to lift to them as you serve Him in faith. close to you and bless you and your up those in need and to be witnesses You remember the Lord’s promise family with what is best. You will have of the Savior as long as we live. to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon the comfort of His love and feel the We will be able to do it without fail when they were away from their fami- answer of His drawing closer as you only as we feel love for the Savior and lies on His errands: “My friends Sidney reach out your arms in giving service His love for us. As we are faithful to and Joseph, your families are well; to others. As you bind up the wounds the promises we have made, we will they are in mine hands, and I will do of those in need and offer the cleans- feel our love for Him. It will increase with them as seemeth me good; for in ing of His Atonement to those who because we will feel His power and me there is all power.” 13 sorrow in sin, the Lord’s power will His drawing near to us in His service. Like Alma and King Mosiah, some sustain you. His arms are outstretched President Thomas S. Monson has faithful parents have served the Lord with yours to succor and bless the reminded us often of the promise of long and well yet have had children children of our Heavenly Father, the Lord to His faithful disciples: “And who wandered despite their parents’ including those in your family. whoso receiveth you, there I will be sacrifice for the Lord. They have done There is a glorious homecoming also, for I will go before your face. all they could to no apparent avail, prepared for us. We will then see I will be on your right hand and on even with help from loving and faith- fulfilled the promise of the Lord we your left, and my Spirit shall be in ful friends. have loved. It is He who welcomes your hearts, and mine angels round Alma and the Saints of his day us into eternal life with Him and about you, to bear you up.” 12 prayed for his son and the sons of our Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ There is another way you and I King Mosiah. An angel came. Your described it this way: have felt Him grow closer to us. As we prayers and the prayers of those who “Seek to bring forth and establish 24 Los Angeles, California, USA my Zion. Keep my commandments in in the spirit world will receive His good and faithful servant.” 19 I so testify all things. guidance by the Spirit as they bless as a witness of the risen Savior and “And, if you keep my command- and serve others for Him. And they our Redeemer in the name of Jesus ments and endure to the end you will feel His love and find joy in being Christ, amen. ◼ shall have eternal life, which gift is the drawn closer to Him. NOTES greatest of all the gifts of God.” 15 I am a witness of the Resurrection 1. Doctrine and Covenants 88:63. 2. Doctrine and Covenants 6:20. “For those that live shall inherit the of the Lord as surely as if I had been 3. “Abide with Me; ’Tis Eventide,” Hymns, earth, and those that die shall rest from there in the evening with the two no. 165. all their labors, and their works shall disciples in the house on Emmaus 4. Luke 24:5–7. 5. Mark 16:7. follow them; and they shall receive a road. I know that He lives as surely 6. Luke 24:15–18. crown in the mansions of my Father, as did Joseph Smith when he saw the 7. Luke 24:25–27. which I have prepared for them.” 16 Father and the Son in the light of a 8. Luke 24:28–29. 9. Luke 24:32. I testify that we can by the Spirit fol- brilliant morning in a grove of trees in 10. Luke 24:46–48. low the invitation of Heavenly Father: Palmyra. 11. Mosiah 18:8–11. “This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” 17 This is the true Church of Jesus 12. Doctrine and Covenants 84:88. 13. Doctrine and Covenants 100:1. By His words and His example, Christ. Only in the priesthood 14. Mosiah 27:14. Christ has shown us how to draw keys held by President Thomas S. 15. Doctrine and Covenants 14:6–7. closer to Him. Every child of Heavenly Monson is the power for us to be 16. Doctrine and Covenants 59:2. 17. Joseph Smith—History 1:17. Father who has chosen to enter sealed in families to live forever with 18. Matthew 11:28. through the gate of baptism into His our Heavenly Father and the Lord 19. Matthew 25:21. Church will have the opportunity in Jesus Christ. We will on the Day of this life to be taught His gospel and Judgment stand before the Savior, to hear from His called servants His face to face. It will be a time of joy for Short Video Highlight invitation, “Come unto me.” 18 those who have drawn close to Him in Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf4 to Every covenant servant of His His service in this life. It will be a joy watch or share a short video within His kingdom on earth and to hear the words: “Well done, thou clip of this message.

May 2013 25 SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION | April 6, 2013

Elder Walter F. González has been released as a member of the Presented by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Presidency of the Quorums of the Second Counselor in the First Presidency Seventy. Those who wish to join us in a vote of appreciation, please manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain Elder Ulisses Soares as a member of the The Sustaining Presidency of the Quorums of the Seventy. All in favor, please manifest it. of Church Officers Those opposed, if any. It is proposed that we release the following as Area Seventies, effective on May 1, 2013: Rubén V. Alliaud, t is proposed that we sustain Thomas Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Sergio M. Anaya, Nolan D. Archibald, Spencer Monson as prophet, seer, Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Carlos L. Astorga, Hector Avila, Iand revelator and President of The Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. M. Anthony Burns, David Cabrera, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Milton Camargo, Robert E. Chambers, Saints; Henry Bennion Eyring as First Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Victor Kah Keng Chen, Kuo Chiang Counselor in the First Presidency; and Christofferson, and Neil L. Andersen. Chung, Nelson D. Córdova, Gary L. Dieter Friedrich Uchtdorf as Second Those in favor, please manifest it. Crittenden, Edward Dube, Matthew J. Counselor in the First Presidency. Any opposed may so indicate. Eyring, Sione M. Fineanganofo, Those in favor may manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain the Alfredo L. Gessati, James B. Gibson, Those opposed, if any, may counselors in the First Presidency Jovencio A. Guanzon, Mario E. manifest it. and the Twelve Apostles as prophets, Guerra, Luis S. Hernandez, Hernan I. It is proposed that we sustain Boyd seers, and revelators. Herrera, Javier Ibañez, Paulo H. Kenneth Packer as President of the All in favor, please manifest it. Itinose, Douglas W. Jessop, Stephen C. Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the Contrary, if there be any, by the Kerr, Joni L. Koch, Faustino López, following as members of that quorum: same sign. Richard K. Melchin, Freebody A. Mensah, Benson E. Misalucha, Abelardo Morales, W. T. David Murray, K. Brett Nattress, S. Gifford Nielsen, Satoshi Nishihara, Michael D. Pickerd, William F. Reynolds, Michael A. Roberts, Fernando A. R. Da Rocha, Manfred Schütze, Terrence C. Smith, Rubén L. Spitale, Joshua Subandriyo, Frank V. Trythall, Miguel R. Valdez, Arnulfo Valenzuela, Carlos A. C. Villanova, Terence M. Vinson, Louis Weidmann, and Richard C. Zambrano. Those who wish to join us in expressing gratitude for their excellent service, please manifest it. It is proposed that we release with a vote of sincere appreciation Sisters Elaine S. Dalton, Mary N. Cook, and 26 Ann M. Dibb as the Young Women Ruben Acosta, Frederick O. George J. Tobias, ‘Aisake K. Tukuafu, general presidency. Akinbo, Omar A. Alvarez, Sergio Jacques A. Van Reenen, Raul E. We likewise extend a release to Antunes, Alan C. Batt, Grant C. Vicencio, Raul S. Villanueva, Alan R. all members of the Young Women Bennett, Fernando E. Calderón, Walker, Keith P. Walker, and Hoi general board. Wilson B. Calderón, H. Marcelo Seng Leonard Woo. All who wish to join us in express- Cardus, Yoke Sang (Freddie) Chan, All in favor, please manifest it. ing appreciation to these sisters for Christopher Charles, Valeri V. Those opposed, if any. their remarkable service and devotion, Cordón, Paul R. Coward, M. T. Ben It is proposed that we sustain please manifest it. Davis, Massimo De Feo, Marion B. Bonnie Lee Green Oscarson as gen- It is proposed that we sustain as De Antuñano, Francisco J. Ruiz eral president of the Young Women, new members of the First Quorum of de Mendoza, Robert A. Dryden, with Carol Louise Foley McConkie as the Seventy Edward Dube, S. Gifford Robert J. Dudfield, Daniel F. first counselor and Evelyn Neill Foote Nielsen, and Arnulfo Valenzuela; Dunnigan, Jeffrey D. Erekson, Marriott as second counselor. and as new members of the Second E. Xavier Espinoza, Meliula M. Fata, Those in favor may manifest it. Quorum of the Seventy Timothy J. Sam M. Galvez, Claude R. Gamiette, Any opposed may so signify. Dyches, Randy D. Funk, Kevin S. Mervyn C. Giddey, João R. Grahl, It is proposed that we sustain Hamilton, Adrián Ochoa, and David P. Homer, Daniel W. Jones, the other General Authorities, Area Terence M. Vinson. John A. Koranteng, Steven O. Seventies, and general auxiliary presi- All in favor, please manifest it. Laing, Axel H. Leimer, Gustavo dencies as presently constituted. Those opposed, by the same sign. Lopez, José E. Maravilla, Alfredo Those in favor, please manifest it. In view of his call as a member of Miron, Hugo Montoya, Joaquim J. Any opposed may manifest it. the Second Quorum of the Seventy, Moreira, Katsuyuki Otahara, José C. Thank you, brothers and sisters, we also release Brother Adrián Ochoa Pineda, Gary S. Price, Miguel A. for your sustaining vote and for your as second counselor in the Young Reyes, Gary B. Sabin, Alfredo L. continued faith and prayers in our Men general presidency. Salas, Netzahualcoyotl Salinas, behalf. Those who wish to extend a vote Ciro Schmeil, D. Zackary Smith, We invite the newly called General of appreciation may so manifest it. Michael L. Southward, G. Lawrence Authorities and Young Women general It is proposed that we sustain the Spackman, Vern P. Stanfill, William H. presidency to come forward and take following as new Area Seventies: Stoddard, Stephen E. Thompson, their places on the stand. ◼

May 2013 27 Church Auditing Department Statistical Report, 2012 Report, 2012

Presented by Robert W. Cantwell Presented by Brook P. Hales Managing Director, Church Auditing Department Secretary to the First Presidency or the information of the mem- To the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ bers of the Church, the First of Latter-day Saints FPresidency has issued the follow- ing statistical report regarding the growth and status of the Church as of December 31, 2012. ear Brethren: As prescribed by of Church assets. The Church Auditing revelation in section 120 of the Department is independent of all other Church Units DDoctrine and Covenants, the Church departments and operations, Stakes...... 3,005 Council on the Disposition of the and the staff consists of certified public Missions...... 347 Tithes authorizes the expenditure of accountants, certified internal auditors, Districts...... 591 Church funds. This council is com- certified information systems auditors, Wards and Branches...... 29,014 posed of the First Presidency, the and other credentialed professionals. Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Based upon audits performed, the Church Membership the Presiding Bishopric. Church Auditing Department is of the Total Membership...... 14,782,473 This council approves budgets for opinion that in all material respects, New Children of Record Church departments, operations, and contributions received, expenditures during 2012...... 122,273 related allocations to ecclesiastical made, and assets of the Church for Converts Baptized units. Church entities expend funds the year 2012 have been recorded during 2012...... 272,330 consistent with approved budgets and and administered in accordance with in accordance with Church policies appropriate accounting practices, Missionaries and procedures. approved budgets, and Church poli- Full-Time Missionaries...... 58,990 The Church Auditing Department cies and procedures. Church-Service Missionaries...... 22,961 has been granted access to all records Respectfully submitted, and systems necessary to evaluate the Church Auditing Department Temples adequacy of controls for receipts of Robert W. Cantwell Temples Dedicated during 2012 funds, expenditures, and safeguarding Managing Director ◼ (Kansas City Missouri, Manaus Brazil, Brigham City Utah, and Calgary Alberta)...... 4 Temples Rededicated during 2012 (Buenos Aires Argentina and Boise Idaho)...... 2 Temples in Operation...... 140 By Elder Richard G. Scott Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles For Peace at Home One of the greatest blessings we can offer to the world is the power of a Christ-centered home where the gospel is taught, covenants are kept, and love abounds.

any voices from the world The fulfillment of this counsel does in which we live tell us we not rest upon parents alone, although Mshould live at a frantic pace. it is their role to lead. Children can be There is always more to do and more responsible for improving the Christ- to accomplish. Yet deep inside each of centered efforts in the home. It is us is a need to have a place of refuge important for parents to teach chil- where peace and serenity prevail, a dren to recognize how their actions Sydney, Australia place where we can reset, regroup, affect each individual who lives in and reenergize to prepare for future the home. Children who are made indiscretions or neglect can lead to big pressures. to feel accountable for their actions, problems. More importantly, simple, The ideal place for that peace is whether righteous or otherwise, grow consistent, good habits lead to a life within the walls of our own homes, to become trustworthy citizens in the full of bountiful blessings. where we have done all we can kingdom of God. You children in the Primary, you to make the Lord Jesus Christ the I’m sure you can identify the young men and women in youth pro- centerpiece. fundamental principles that center grams, and you stalwart missionaries Some homes have a father who your home on the Savior. The pro- now serving are doing many things is a worthy priesthood holder joined phetic counsel to have daily personal more effectively than I was able to by a faithful, devoted mother who and family prayer, daily personal and do at your age. In the premortal life together lead in righteousness. family scripture study, and weekly you proved to be valiant, obedient, Many homes have a different config- family home evening are the essential, and pure. There you worked hard to uration. Regardless of your circum- weight-bearing beams in the con- develop talents and capacities to pre- stances, you can center your home struction of a Christ-centered home. pare yourselves to face mortality with and your life on the Lord Jesus Christ, Without these regular practices it will courage, dignity, honor, and success. for He is the source of true peace in be difficult to find the desired and Not long ago you came to mor- this life. much-needed peace and refuge from tality with all of those magnificent Be certain that every decision you the world. capacities and endless possibilities. make, whether temporal or spiritual, is Be obedient to the prophetic Yet there is real danger in the envi- conditioned on what the Savior would teachings Christ would have you ronment surrounding you. Your great have you do. When He is the center of follow. Don’t rationalize away future potential and ability could be lim- your home, there is peace and seren- happiness by taking shortcuts instead ited or destroyed if you yield to the ity. There is a spirit of assurance that of applying sound gospel princi- devil-inspired contamination around pervades the home, and it is felt by all ples. Remember: little things lead to you. However, Satan is no match for who dwell there. big things. Seemingly insignificant the Savior. Satan’s fate is decided. He

May 2013 29 knows he has lost, but he wants to protection from the worst of society. Savior. Acting obediently on those take as many with him as he can. He Who could have imagined not very promptings strengthens us even more. will try to ruin your goodness and many years ago that the full standard Greater peace will come as you abilities by exploiting your weak- works and years of general conference couple your efforts to be obedient nesses. Stay on the Lord’s side, and messages would fit into your pocket? with serving those around you. So you will win every time. Just having them in your pocket will many individuals who have what they You live in a world where techno- not protect you, but studying, ponder- perceive to be meager talents humbly logical advances occur at an astound- ing, and listening to them during quiet and generously use those talents to ing pace. It is difficult for many of moments of each day will enhance bless the lives of those around them. my generation to keep up with the communication through the Spirit. Selfishness is the root of great evil. possibilities. Depending on how tech- Be wise in how you embrace The antidote for that evil is exempli- nology is used, these advances can be technology. Mark important scriptures fied in the life of the Savior. He shows a blessing or a deterrent. Technology, on your device and refer back to them us how to focus our lives outward in when understood and used for righ- frequently. If you young people would unselfish service to others. teous purposes, need not be a threat review a verse of scripture as often as I have learned a truth that has been but rather an enhancement to spiritual some of you send text messages, you repeated so frequently in my life that communication. could soon have hundreds of passages I have come to know it as an absolute For example, many of us have a of scripture memorized. Those pas- law. It defines the way obedience and personal electronic device that fits into sages would prove to be a powerful service relate to the power of God. our pocket. We are seldom without source of inspiration and guidance by When we obey the commandments its company; we may refer to it many the Holy Ghost in times of need. of the Lord and serve His children times a day. Unfortunately, these Doing all we can to invite the unselfishly, the natural consequence is devices can be a source of filth and gentle, guiding influence of the Holy power from God—power to do more wasted time. But, used with disci- Ghost into our lives is critical in our than we can do by ourselves. Our pline, this technology can be a tool of attempts to center our homes on the insights, our talents, our abilities are expanded because we receive strength and power from the Lord. His power is a fundamental component to estab- lishing a home filled with peace. As you center your home on the Savior, it will naturally become a refuge not only to your own family but also to friends who live in more difficult circumstances. They will be drawn to the serenity they feel there. Welcome such friends into your home. They will blossom in that Christ-centered environment. Become friends with your children’s friends. Be a worthy example to them. One of the greatest blessings we can offer to the world is the power of a Christ-centered home where the gospel is taught, covenants are kept, and love abounds. Years ago, following a mission tour, my wife, Jeanene, told me about an elder she had met. Jeanene had 30 New York City, New York, USA asked him about his family. She was smoother and more pleasant. It should lift you. It will provide comfort so you surprised as he responded that he had not be a resource used to gain per- can cease to fear. Strive to live wor- no family. He further explained that sonal advantage but a treasure to be thily and place your trust in the Lord. at his birth, his mother had given him appreciated and shared. Welcome into We need not worry if we can’t to the government to raise. He spent your home others who need to be simultaneously do all of the things that his childhood going from one foster strengthened by such an experience. the Lord has counseled us to do. He home to another. He was blessed as a I offer some final thoughts for those has spoken of a time and a season for teenager to find the gospel. A loving who love a family member who is all things. In response to our sincere ward family had helped him to have not making good choices. That can prayers for guidance, He will direct us the opportunity to serve a mission. challenge our patience and endur- in what should be emphasized at each Later Jeanene asked the mission ance. We need to trust in the Lord and phase of our life. We can learn, grow, president’s wife about this fine elder. in His timing that a positive response and become like Him one consistent She learned that a few months earlier to our prayers and rescue efforts can step at a time. this elder had been in the mission occur. We do all that we can to serve, I bear testimony that living an home for a few days due to an illness. to bless, and to submissively acknowl- obedient life, firmly rooted in the During that time he had joined them edge God’s will in all things. We exer- gospel of Jesus Christ, provides for a family home evening. Before he cise faith and remember that there are the greatest assurance for peace left to go back into the field, he asked some things that must be left to the and refuge in our homes. There the mission president if he could Lord. He invites us to set our burdens will still be plenty of challenges or spend two or three days at the end down at His feet. With faith we can heartaches, but even in the midst of of his mission in the mission home know that this straying loved one is turmoil, we can enjoy inner peace again. He wanted to observe how not abandoned but is in the watchcare and profound happiness. I testify that a Christ-centered family functions. of a loving Savior. the Atonement of Jesus Christ is the He wanted to be able to pattern his Recognize the good in others, not source of that abundant peace, in the family after theirs. their stains. At times a stain needs name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ Do all you can to have just such appropriate attention to be cleansed, a home. Reach out to those liv- but always build on his or her virtues. ing in adverse circumstances. Be a When you feel that there is only a Short Video Highlight true friend. This kind of enduring thin thread of hope, it is really not a Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf5 to friendship is like asphalt that fills the thread but a massive connecting link, watch or share a short video potholes of life and makes the journey like a life preserver to strengthen and clip of this message.

May 2013 31 By Elder Quentin L. Cook further attacks, they made their way to Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles a safer area and then to the Manhattan stake Church building at Lincoln Center. When they arrived, they found that dozens of other members in lower Manhattan had made the same Personal Peace: decision to gather at the stake center. They called to let us know where they were. I was relieved that they were The Reward safe but not surprised at their location. Modern revelation teaches that the stakes of Zion are a defense and “a refuge from the storm, and from wrath of Righteousness when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth.” 2 Even with the trials of life, because of the Savior’s They could not return to their Atonement and His grace, righteous living will be apartment for over a week and were devastated by the loss of innocent rewarded with personal peace. lives, but they suffered no permanent damage. In contemplating these events, I have been impressed with the doctri- ecent experiences have caused of peace and heighten our sense of nal difference between universal or me to reflect on the doctrine of vulnerability. world peace and personal peace.3 Rpeace and especially the role Who can forget the evil attacks of At the birth of the Savior, a multi- of Jesus Christ in helping each of us September 11, 2001, on various U.S. tude of the heavenly host praised God obtain lasting personal peace. locations? Such events remind us how and proclaimed, “Glory to God in the Two events in the past few quickly our feelings of peace and highest, and on earth peace, good will months have touched me deeply. safety can be destroyed. toward men.” 4 First, I spoke at the funeral for Our oldest son and his wife, who However, it has been poignantly Emilie Parker, a precious six-year- were expecting their first child, lived noted that even in this eternally signif- old who lost her life along with 25 three blocks from the World Trade icant period following the birth of the others, including 19 young children, Center in New York City when the first Son of God, Herod the king carried in a tragic shooting in Newtown, plane crashed into the North Tower. out the slaughter of innocent infants Connecticut. I mourned with her They went to the roof of their apart- in Bethlehem.5 family and recognized that many ment building and were horrified as Agency is essential to the plan of had been deprived of peace. I found they watched what they thought was happiness. It allows for the love, sacri- strength and faith in her parents, some kind of terrible accident. Then fice, personal growth, and experience Robert and Alissa Parker. they witnessed the second plane crash necessary for our eternal progression. Second, I met with thousands of into the South Tower. They immedi- This agency also allows for all the pain faithful members of the Church in ately realized that this was no accident and suffering we experience in mortal- the Ivory Coast city of Abidjan.1 This and believed lower Manhattan was ity, even when caused by things we French-speaking, West-African country under attack. When the South Tower do not understand and the devastating has endured economic hardship, a collapsed, their apartment building evil choices of others. The very War military coup, and two recent civil was engulfed in the dust cloud that in Heaven was waged over our moral wars concluding in 2011. Yet I felt a rained down over lower Manhattan. agency and is essential to understand- special peace in their presence. Confused about what they had ing the Savior’s earthly ministry. Events often occur that rob us witnessed and concerned about As recited in the 10th chapter of 32 Matthew, the Savior instructed the Twelve and acknowledged that His mission would not achieve universal peace in this mortal life. The Apostles were told to leave peace upon the worthy houses they visited but warned that they would be “in the midst of wolves . . . [and] hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” 6 A signifi- cant pronouncement is made in verse 34: “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth.” 7 It is clear that uni- versal peace did not exist on the earth during Christ’s mortal ministry, and it does not now. In the Lord’s preface to the in the Doctrine and Covenants: “But emphasis on family history and temple Doctrine and Covenants, a number of learn that he who doeth the works of work for their ancestors.18 very important principles are taught. righteousness shall receive his reward, We all long for peace. Peace is not With respect to those who do not even peace in this world, and eternal just safety or lack of war, violence, repent, His Spirit (the Spirit of Christ), life in the world to come.” 14 conflict, and contention. Peace comes which is given to every person who President John Taylor taught that from knowing that the Savior knows comes into the world,8 “shall not peace is not only desirable, but “it is who we are and knows that we have always strive with man.” 9 Also, “peace the gift of God.” 15 faith in Him, love Him, and keep His shall be taken from the earth.” 10 The peace to which I am referring commandments, even and especially Prophets have declared that peace has is not just a temporary tranquility. It is amid life’s devastating trials and trage- indeed been taken from the earth.11 an abiding deep happiness and spiri- dies. The Lord’s answer to the Prophet Lucifer has not yet been bound and tual contentment.16 Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail brings exercises power in this dominion.12 President Heber J. Grant described solace to the heart: The heavenly aspiration of good the Savior’s peace this way: “His peace “My son, peace be unto thy soul; people everywhere has and always will ease our suffering, bind up our thine adversity and thine afflictions will be for peace in the world. We broken hearts, blot out our hates, shall be but a small moment; must never give up on achieving this engender in our breasts a love of “And then, if thou endure it well, goal. But, President Joseph F. Smith fellow men that will suffuse our souls God shall exalt thee on high.” 19 taught, “There never can come to the with calm and happiness.” 17 In my Remember, “God is not the author world that spirit of peace and love . . . meetings with Emilie Parker’s parents, of confusion, but [the author] of until mankind will receive God’s truth I saw that the Savior’s peace has eased peace.” 20 For those who reject God, and God’s message . . . , and acknowl- their suffering and is helping to bind there is no peace. We all participated edge his power and authority which up their broken hearts. It is notable in the councils of heaven that pro- is divine.” 13 that immediately after the shooting, vided for moral agency, knowing that We earnestly hope and pray for Brother Parker expressed forgiveness there would be mortal pain and even universal peace, but it is as individu- to the perpetrator. As President Grant unspeakable tragedy because of the als and families that we achieve the said, the Savior’s peace can “blot out abuse of agency. We understood that kind of peace that is the promised our hates.” Judgment is the Lord’s. this could leave us angry, bewildered, reward of righteousness. This peace is The Ivory Coast Saints, during the defenseless, and vulnerable. But we a promised gift of the Savior’s mission period of civil war in their country, also knew that the Savior’s Atonement and atoning sacrifice. found peace by focusing on living the would overcome and compensate This principle is succinctly captured gospel of Jesus Christ, with particular for all of the unfairness of mortal life

May 2013 33 contentment.27 When there has been a major transgression, confession is required to bring peace.28 Perhaps there is nothing to compare with the peace that comes from a sin- wracked soul unloading his or her burdens on the Lord and claiming the blessings of the Atonement. As another favorite Church hymn puts it, “I’ll drop my burden at his feet and bear a song away.” 29 My heart rejoices when I realize that in our day tens of thousands of young men, young women, and senior mis- sionaries have accepted the call to be emissaries of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. They are taking the restored gospel of peace to the world, one per- son and one family at a time—a work of righteousness to bring this peace to Heavenly Father’s children. The Church is a refuge where followers of Christ attain peace. Some young people in the world say they are spiritual but not religious. Feeling spiritual is a good first step. However, and bring us peace. Elder Marion D. source and author of peace. He is the it is in the Church that we are fellow- Hanks had a framed statement on his “Prince of Peace.” 24 shipped, taught, and nourished by the wall by Ugo Betti: “To believe in God How do we stay close to the Savior? good word of God. More importantly, is to know that all the rules will be Humbling ourselves before God, it is priesthood authority in the Church fair, and that there will be wonderful praying always, repenting of sins, that provides for sacred ordinances surprises.” 21 entering the waters of baptism with and covenants that bind families What are the sources of peace? a broken heart and contrite spirit, together and qualify each of us to Many search for peace in worldly and becoming true disciples of Jesus return to God the Father and Jesus ways, which never have and never Christ are profound examples of the Christ in the celestial kingdom. These will succeed. Peace is not found by righteousness that is rewarded by ordinances bring peace because they attaining great wealth, power, or abiding peace.25 After King Benjamin are covenants with the Lord. prominence.22 Peace is not found in delivered his stirring message con- Temples are where many of these the pursuit of pleasure, entertainment, cerning the Atonement of Christ, sacred ordinances occur and are also or leisure. None of these can, even the multitude fell to the earth. “The a source of peaceful refuge from when attained in abundance, create Spirit of the Lord came upon them, the world. Those who visit temple any lasting happiness or peace. and they were filled with joy, having grounds or participate in temple Emma Lou Thayne’s beloved received a remission of their sins, and open houses also feel this peace. One hymn asks the appropriate ques- having peace of conscience, because experience preeminent in my mind tions: “Where can I turn for peace? of the exceeding faith which they is the Suva Fiji Temple open house Where is my solace when other had in Jesus Christ.” 26 Repentance and dedication. There had been sources cease to make me whole?” 23 and living righteously allow for peace political upheaval resulting in rebels The answer is the Savior, who is the of conscience, which is essential for burning and looting downtown Suva, 34 occupying the houses of Parliament because of the Savior’s Atonement NOTES and holding legislators hostage. The and His grace, righteous living will 1. Two conferences were held in Abidjan on Sunday, February 10, 2013; 9,693 country was under martial law. The be rewarded with personal peace. In were in attendance—619 of whom were Fiji military gave the Church limited the intimate setting of the Passover not yet members of the Church. Total permission to assemble people for the chamber, the Savior promised His Church membership in the Ivory Coast is approximately 19,000. open house and a very small group Apostles that they would be blessed 2. Doctrine and Covenants 115:6. for the dedication. The members as a with the “Comforter, which is the 3. The word peace has different meanings. whole were uninvited due to concerns Holy Ghost” and then uttered these In classical Greek it refers to cessation, discontinuance, or absence of hostilities for their safety. It was the only temple important words: “Peace I leave with between rival forces. In Hebrew the word dedication since the original Nauvoo you, my peace I give unto you: not as has a more comprehensive meaning and Temple that was held under very diffi- the world giveth, give I unto you.” 30 sometimes is just a form of greeting. Peace Then just before His Intercessory is also a “state of existence that comes to cult circumstances. man only upon the terms and conditions One person invited to the open Prayer: “These things I have spoken set by God” (Howard W. Hunter, in house was a lovely Hindu woman unto you, that in me ye might have Conference Report, Oct. 1966, 14–17). of Indian descent, a member of peace. In the world ye shall have trib- 4. Luke 2:14; emphasis added. 5. See Matthew 2:16; see also Ross Douthat, Parliament who was initially held ulation: but be of good cheer; I have “The Loss of the Innocents,” New York hostage but was released because she overcome the world.” 31 Times, Dec. 16, 2012, 12. was female. Eliza R. Snow penned this concept 6. Matthew 10:16, 22. 7. Matthew 10:34. In the celestial room, free from the beautifully: 8. See Doctrine and Covenants 84:46. turmoil of the world, she dissolved 9. Doctrine and Covenants 1:33. in tears as she expressed feelings of Lift up your hearts in praise to God; 10. Doctrine and Covenants 1:35. 11. President Woodruff declared this in 1894 peace that overwhelmed her. She felt Let your rejoicings never cease. and again in 1896. See The Discourses of the Holy Ghost comforting and bear- Though tribulations rage abroad, Wilford Woodruff, ed. G. Homer Durham ing witness of the sacred nature of Christ says, “In me ye shall have peace.” 32 (1946), 251–52; see also Marion G. Romney, in Conference Report, Apr. 1967, 79–82. the temple. 12. See Joseph Fielding Smith, The Predicted The Savior is the source of true I so testify in the name of Jesus Judgments, Brigham Young University peace. Even with the trials of life, Christ, amen. ◼ Speeches of the Year (Mar. 21, 1967), 5–6. However, as Elder Neal A. Maxwell stated, “We can have inner peace even though peace has been taken from the earth . . . [and] ‘all things [are] in commotion’” (“Behold, the Enemy Is Combined,” Ensign, May 1993, 79). 13. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith (1998), 400. 14. Doctrine and Covenants 59:23. 15. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: John Taylor (2001), 151. 16. From the ancient Greeks to our own day, these words—happiness and contentment—have been parsed, dissected, and grappled with not only as to their meaning but also the guidance they give to our lives. See David Malouf, The Happy Life: The Search for Contentment in the Modern World (2011). See also a review of Mr. Malouf’s book, in R. Jay Magill Jr., “How to Live Well,” Wall Street Journal, Jan. 26–27, 2013, C6. 17. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Heber J. Grant (2002), 226. 18. “Three of the five Ivory Coast stakes are among the top 25 in the Church in the percentage of adults [submitting] family Copenhagen, Denmark names for temple ordinances,” and the

May 2013 35 Cocody Cote d’Ivoire Stake is the highest By Elder Stanley G. Ellis (C. Terry Warner and Susan Warner, Of the Seventy “Apostle Visits Ivory Coast, Is ‘Impressed with Exceptional Spirit,’” Church News, Mar. 3, 2013, 4, 14). In the wake of the civil war and the closest temple being 12 hours away by bus in Accra, Ghana, this is marvelous evidence of faith and has resulted in personal and family peace. The Lord’s Way 19. Doctrine and Covenants 121:7–8. President Harold B. Lee taught, “So, we must be refined; we must be tested in order to The Lord’s way is that we hearken to our leaders’ teachings, prove the strength and power that are in us” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: understand correct principles, and govern ourselves. Harold B. Lee [2000], 208). 20. 1 Corinthians 14:33. 21. In Marion D. Hanks, “A Loving, Communi- cating God,” Ensign, Nov. 1992, 63. 22. See Jeffrey R. Holland, For Times of Seventy Trouble (2012), 79. Elder Holland teaches served throughout the Church, I that “true poverty may do more to destroy I serve as a Seventy. The Seventy have often asked, “Do you want the human spirit than any other condition are called to be messengers—to share me to speak directly or with sugar?” except sin itself.” But the righteous use of the word of the Lord as we receive it As a rule the Saints have chosen money can enhance peace. 23. “Where Can I Turn for Peace?” Hymns, from the apostles and prophets and “direct!” I will be direct today.) no. 129. from the Spirit and to be especial 6. Finally, as an Idaho farm boy, I 24. Isaiah 9:6. witnesses of the name of Christ in learned to stick to the basics. 25. John Greenleaf Whittier put it simply: “Heed how thou livest. Do not act by day preaching the gospel in all the world, which from the night shall drive thy peace in building up the Church and regulat- Nothing is more basic to all of us, away” (“Conduct [From the Mahabharata],” ing its affairs (see D&C 107:25, 34). and our doctrine, than the truths of in The Complete Poetical Works of John Greenleaf Whittier [1802], 484). the first article of faith: “We believe 26. Mosiah 4:3; emphasis added; see also Farm Boy in God, the Eternal Father, and in Marion G. Romney, in Conference Report, I grew up on a farm near Burley, His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Apr. 1967, 79–82. 27. Conscience is a moral compass pointing Idaho—a real “Idaho farm boy!” As Ghost” (Articles of Faith 1:1). us toward peace. It is activated by at least such I learned: Further, He is our Heavenly Father, two sources: the Light of Christ, a glorious who knows us, loves us, and wants us birthright from our Heavenly Father (see Doctrine and Covenants 88:6–13; 93:2), and 1. To work—if you don’t plant, you to return to Him. Jesus is our Savior the gift of the Holy Ghost (see Doctrine don’t harvest. and Redeemer, who through the and Covenants 39:6). 2. To work smart—if you irrigate and Atonement made it certain we will 28. “Two sets of forgiveness are required to bring peace to the transgressor—one from fertilize, you harvest more. overcome death and live again and the proper authorities of the Lord’s Church, 3. The importance of timing—if you possible for us to be exalted and have and one from the Lord himself. [See Mosiah don’t plant at the right time, an eternal life. The Holy Ghost is our 26:29.]” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 41). early frost can destroy the harvest. comforter, revelator, teacher, testifier, 29. “How Gentle God’s Commands,” Hymns, 4. To do what is needed or ought and guide. no. 125. to be done regardless of what is Think of it, brothers and sisters— 30. John 14:26–27. 31. John 16:33. enjoyable, preferable, or conve- we are not spiritual orphans! We are 32. “Though Deepening Trials,” Hymns, nient—you milk the cow when she not alone. no. 122. needs to be milked, not when you What are the advantages of having want to. parents—of not being an orphan? We 5. To be direct—with livestock and can learn from them, benefit from Short Video Highlight machinery involved, you don’t have their experience, avoid pitfalls they Scan this QR code or visit time to “beat around the bush” or warn us about, and understand better lds.org/go/Apr13Conf6 to watch or share a short video to worry about being politically because of their perspective. We don’t clip of this message. correct. (In this respect, as I have have to be lost, confused, deceived, or 36 less effective. This is especially true in the case of our Heavenly Father, who has taught us and shown us not just a way but the way.

God Has the Way In fact, God has the way to live,1 to love,2 to help,3 to pray,4 to talk,5 to interact with each other,6 to lead,7 to marry,8 to raise children,9 to learn,10 to know the truth,11 to share the gospel,12 to choose wisely what we eat,13 etc. Along with the scriptures, some great sources for finding the Lord’s way are True to the Faith, For the Strength of Youth, and other teachings Sydney, Australia of the living apostles and prophets. appearance, but the Lord looketh Governing Ourselves 1. For example, the Lord has taught us on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Joseph Smith was taught from his in the scriptures: 5. Even with the universally accepted youth the ways of the Lord. When “For my thoughts are not your desire to help the poor and needy, asked how he led the Church, he thoughts, neither are your ways my the Lord concurs in our goal but explained that he taught correct ways, saith the Lord. warns, “But it must needs be done principles and the members governed “For as the heavens are higher in mine own way” (D&C 104:16). themselves.14 Brothers and sisters, our than the earth, so are my ways higher Otherwise, in our efforts to help, living apostles and prophets are still than your ways, and my thoughts we may actually hurt them. The teaching correct principles. The ques- than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8–9). Lord has taught us the need to pro- tion is “Are we using these principles 2. One of the evils of these last days mote self-reliance. Even if we are to govern ourselves?” is that “every man walketh in his able to help, we should not give or One thing we have often been own way” (D&C 1:16). In Proverbs provide what they can and should taught is to bloom where we are we are warned to “be not wise in do for themselves. Everywhere it is planted. Yet sometimes we are tempted thine own eyes” and to “lean not tried, the world learns the evils of to migrate to some new area, thinking unto thine own understanding” (see the dole. Truly God knows best. our children will have more friends and Proverbs 3:5–7). therefore better youth programs. 3. We are taught that if we do things Let’s consider some other exam- Brothers and sisters, do we really the Lord’s way, He is bound to bless ples. The Lord has the way to do think the critical factor in the salvation us and we have claim to His prom- missionary work. It is codified in the of our children is the neighborhood ises; and if not His way, we have no scriptures and in Preach My Gospel where we live? The apostles and promise (see D&C 82:10). and implemented as guided by the prophets have often taught that what 4. The Lord contrasted His way with Spirit. happens inside the home is far more our way in His training of the The Lord has His way, or the way, important than what our children prophet Samuel, who was sent to to love. Those of the world say that encounter outside. How we raise our find a new king: “But the Lord said what really matters is that two people children is more important than where unto Samuel, Look not on his coun- love each other. Our Father in Heaven we raise them. tenance, or on the height of his teaches that this is important, but Certainly there are other factors stature; because I have refused him: He teaches us more: that there is an involved in deciding where to live, for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; authorized way and time to express and thankfully, the Lord will guide us for man looketh on the outward that love. if we seek His confirmation.

May 2013 37 might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people! “Yea, I would declare unto every soul . . . the plan of redemption, that they should repent and come unto our God [and His ways], that there might not be more sorrow upon all the face of the earth” (Alma 29:1–2). Again, I witness the Lord has the way! Our Heavenly Father knows us, loves us, and wants to help. He knows best how to help. We are not spiritual orphans! Our Savior, Jesus Christ, is “the way, the truth, and the life” ( John 14:6; see also Alma 38:9). His way is based on eternal truth and leads us to “peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come” (D&C 59:23). I so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ Another question is “Where are Especially Important we needed?” For 16 years I served in With all that is happening in the NOTES the presidency of the Houston Texas Church today, and as the Lord is 1. See 2 Nephi 5:27; Mosiah 4:27; Alma 7:23–25. North Stake. Many moved to our hastening His work on every side, it is 2. See Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 6:5; John area during those years. We would even more critically important that we 13:34–35; Romans 1:24–32; 1 Thessalonians often receive a phone call announc- do all we do in His way! 4:3; Alma 39:3–5. 3. See Mosiah 4:21–27; Doctrine and ing someone moving in and asking Especially in the work of salvation, Covenants 104:15–18. which was the best ward. Only once we learn that “in the gift of his Son 4. See Matthew 6:5–13; 2 Nephi 32:8–9; in 16 years did I receive a call asking, hath God prepared a more excellent 3 Nephi 18:21; Doctrine and Covenants 10:5. “Which ward needs a good family? way” (Ether 12:11). The doctrine 5. See Proverbs 15:1; Colossians 4:6; James Where can we help?” of Christ “is the way; and there is 5:12; 3 Nephi 11:29–30. In the early years of the Church, none other way nor name given 6. See Doctrine and Covenants 64:10–11; President Brigham Young and others under heaven whereby man can 121:41–46. 7. See Matthew 25:14–30; John 10:1–14; would call members to go to a certain be saved in the kingdom of God” Doctrine and Covenants 50:26; 107:99–100; place to build up the Church there. (2 Nephi 31:21). 121:34–40. The irony is that even now we have 8. See Genesis 2:24; Jacob 2:27; Doctrine and Covenants 42:22; 132:19. faithful Church members everywhere Conclusion 9. See Mosiah 4:14–15; Doctrine and who would go anywhere the prophet As we see so many in the world Covenants 68:25–28. asked them to go. Do we really expect today living in confusion or, worse, 10. See Doctrine and Covenants 43:8–9; 88:77–79, 118. President Monson to individually tell wandering in forbidden paths and suf- 11. See Moroni 7:15–19; 10:3–5; Doctrine and more than 14 million of us where our fering unnecessarily the consequences Covenants 9:7–9. family is needed? The Lord’s way is of poor choices, it makes me want to 12. See Doctrine and Covenants 33:8–10; that we hearken to our leaders’ teach- exclaim as did Alma: 100:3–8. 13. See Doctrine and Covenants 89. ings, understand correct principles, “O that I were an angel, and could 14. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: and govern ourselves. have the wish of mine heart, that I Joseph Smith (2007), 284. 38 By Elder John B. Dickson the Lord impressed upon Peter that Of the Seventy the gospel would go to the Gentiles, a concept new and foreign to the Saints of that day. The revelation making that change in the affairs of the Church came to Peter, the senior The Gospel Apostle. We know that the gospel then went rapidly to the nations of the Gentiles. to All the World An example of the expansion of the Church at that time was the conversion of Paul, who became The Church has moved steadily across the world from the great Apostle to the Gentiles. nation to nation, culture to culture, people to people, He had a vision while on the road on the Lord’s calendar and in His time. to Damascus, where he saw a light and heard a voice, repented of his sins, and was called of God (see Acts 22:6–18) and then became a tremen- he Savior’s mortal ministry Indeed, the Savior would come dous force in spreading the gospel of was complete. His suffering in again in His Second Coming, but in Jesus Christ. TGethsemane and on the cross the meantime, the gospel of Jesus Now let us move 1,800 years was over. We learn from Acts 1 that Christ was to go to “the uttermost part forward to the time of the Restoration He had ministered for 40 days after of the earth.” of the gospel, or the restitution of all His Resurrection, “being seen” of the From Matthew we learn of a special things prior to the Second Coming. I Apostles and “speaking of . . . things mandate to the Apostles to take the testify that through the Prophet Joseph pertaining to the kingdom of God” gospel to all nations: Smith, the Church has been restored (Acts 1:3). “And Jesus came and spake unto and continues to move forward under He told them that “ye shall receive them, saying, All power is given unto the direction of the First Presidency power, after that the Holy Ghost is me in heaven and in earth. and the Quorum of the Twelve come upon you: and ye shall be “Go ye therefore, and teach all Apostles. Their mandate to take the witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, nations, baptizing them in the name of gospel to the world is the same as that and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and the Father, and of the Son, and of the of the Apostles of old. unto the uttermost part of the earth” Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:18–19). From the time of the organization (Acts 1:8). During the early days of the of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Shortly thereafter, “he was taken Church, in the meridian of time, the day Saints in 1830, the Church has up; and a cloud received him out of gospel was taken to the house of moved steadily across the world from their sight. Israel only; then revelation came to nation to nation, culture to culture, “And while they looked steadfastly Peter, the senior Apostle, that the time people to people, on the Lord’s calen- toward heaven as he went up, behold, had come to take the gospel beyond dar and in His time. two men stood by them in white Israel and unto the Gentiles. The 10th In 1978, following the established apparel; and 11th chapters of Acts help us pattern of revelation through the “Which also said, Ye men of understand the process and pattern senior Apostle, President Spencer W. Galilee, why stand ye gazing up whereby this needed expansion of the Kimball, came a revelation, this time into heaven? this same Jesus, which Church to more of God’s children was on extending priesthood blessings is taken up from you into heaven, made known to its presiding officers to all worthy males across the world. shall so come in like manner as ye and the general membership. This means that in our day all of have seen him go into heaven” (Acts Using Cornelius, who was a Heavenly Father’s children worldwide 1:9–11). Gentile, a centurion, and a good man, can partake of all of the blessings of

May 2013 39 the restored gospel. How appropriate on priesthood. Sister Dickson and I become acquainted with the African to the kingdom of God on earth in have lived there for four years, and the stake and ward leaders and their the days approaching Christ’s Second experience has been wonderful and families. Coming. life changing for us. Across Africa, to join a Sunday On a personal note, I had just As a people, West Africans believe School, auxiliary, or priesthood class been called as a mission president in God, have absolutely no shame is a sacred experience, where the and Sister Dickson and I were about in declaring and sharing their belief Church curriculum is followed and to take our family to Mexico when with others, and have tremendous there is great gospel understanding, Elder Richard G. Scott, at the time leadership capacity. They are coming teaching, and learning by the Spirit. a member of the Seventy, told me into the Church by the hundreds, and The gospel in Africa is going to a of the coming forth of this special every week or so a couple of wards happy people, very unencumbered revelation. I remember tears coming or branches are created somewhere by the trappings that affect the lives of to my eyes as he related to me what in the Africa West Area with, in nearly many in the West. They are not con- had happened. I was pleased beyond every case, all-African priesthood and cerned about having endless material words, as I knew it was right and auxiliary leadership. possessions. that the time had come for all man­ How I wish you could join the It has been said of Africans that kind to have access to all of the Saints in the temple in Aba, Nigeria, they have very little of that which ordinances, covenants, and blessings or Accra, Ghana, where you would matters least and a great deal of that of the gospel. sense the commitment of the Saints which matters most. They have little That was almost 35 years ago, and and come to know the all-African interest in enormous homes and the little did I know at the time that I temple presidencies. Or how I wish finest cars but great interest in know- would spend several years of my min- I could introduce you to the African ing their Heavenly Father and His Son, istry in the Seventy in the Africa West Area Seventies, who are assembled Jesus Christ, and in having eternal Area of the Church, among a believ- with us here in the Conference Center families. As a natural result of their ing, faithful people whose lives would today and are attorneys, professors, faith, the Lord is lifting them in mean- be so affected by the 1978 revelation and business managers, or have you ingful ways. 40 Knowing them as we do, we are By Elder David A. Bednar not surprised that they would be Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles such an important part of the expan- sion of the Church of Jesus Christ in the last days. Given that Daniel, the Old Testament prophet, envisioned the kingdom of God in the last days We Believe in “roll[ing] forth unto the ends of the earth, as [a] stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands [would] Being Chaste roll forth, until it [had] filled the whole earth” (D&C 65:2), it is very fitting that our wonderful African Obedience to the law of chastity will increase our happiness brothers and sisters would be an in mortality and make possible our progress in eternity. important part of the fulfillment of that prophecy and that the revelations making it so would follow the Lord’s established patterns. y message addresses a funda­ of experience that simply could not I testify that our Heavenly Father mental question of great spiri- be obtained in our premortal exis- loves all of His children, that Jesus Mtual consequence: Why is the tence. Thus, our relationships with is the Christ, and that the gospel is law of chastity so important? I pray the other people, our capacity to recog- available to all, both the living and Holy Ghost will confirm the truthful- nize and act in accordance with truth, the dead. In the sacred name of Jesus ness of the principles I emphasize. and our ability to obey the principles Christ, amen. ◼ and ordinances of the gospel of The Father’s Plan of Happiness Jesus Christ are amplified through The eternal importance of chastity our physical bodies. In the school of can only be understood within the mortality, we experience tenderness, overarching context of our Heavenly love, kindness, happiness, sorrow, Father’s plan of happiness for His disappointment, pain, and even the children. “All human beings—male challenges of physical limitations and female—are created in the image in ways that prepare us for eternity. of God. Each is a beloved spirit son Simply stated, there are lessons we or daughter of heavenly parents, and must learn and experiences we must . . . has a divine nature and destiny” have, as the scriptures describe, (“The Family: A Proclamation to the “according to the flesh” (1 Nephi World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 19:6; Alma 7:12–13). 2010, 129). All men and women lived with God as His spirit children The Power of Procreation before coming to the earth as mortal After the earth was created, Adam beings. The Father’s plan enables His was placed in the Garden of Eden. spirit sons and daughters to obtain Importantly, however, God said “it physical bodies, to gain mortal was not good that the man should be experience, and to progress toward alone” (Moses 3:18; see also Genesis exaltation. 2:18), and Eve became Adam’s wife and helpmeet. The unique combina- The Importance of a Physical Body tion of spiritual, physical, mental, and Our physical bodies make possible emotional capacities of both males a breadth, a depth, and an intensity and females was needed to enact

May 2013 41 of our divine nature and potential and a way of strengthening emotional and spiritual bonds between hus- band and wife. We are agents blessed with moral agency and are defined by our divine heritage as children of God—and not by sexual behaviors, contemporary attitudes, or secular philosophies.

The Natural Man To some degree, the natural man the plan of happiness. “Neither is the in mortality and our destiny in described by King Benjamin is alive man without the woman, neither the eternity. and well in each of us (see Mosiah woman without the man, in the Lord” Elder Dallin H. Oaks explained: 3:19). The natural man or woman is (1 Corinthians 11:11). The man and “The power to create mortal life is unrepentant, is carnal and sensual the woman are intended to learn the most exalted power God has given (see Mosiah 16:5; Alma 42:10; Moses from, strengthen, bless, and complete his children. Its use was mandated in 5:13), is indulgent and excessive, and each other. the first commandment, but another is prideful and selfish. As President The means by which mortal life is important commandment was given Spencer W. Kimball taught, “The created is divinely appointed. “The to forbid its misuse. The emphasis ‘natural man’ is the ‘earthy man’ who first commandment . . . God gave we place on the law of chastity is has allowed rude animal passions to Adam and Eve pertained to their explained by our understanding of the to overshadow his spiritual inclina- potential for parenthood as husband purpose of our procreative powers in tions” (“Ocean Currents and Family and wife” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. the accomplishment of God’s plan. . . . Influences,”Ensign , Nov. 1974, 112). 2010, 129). The commandment to “Outside the bonds of marriage, all In contrast, the “man [or woman] multiply and replenish the earth uses of the procreative power are to of Christ” (Helaman 3:29) is spiritual remains in force today. Thus, mar- one degree or another a sinful degrad- and bridles all passions (see Alma riage between a man and a woman ing and perversion of the most divine 38:12), is temperate and restrained, is the authorized channel through attribute of men and women” (“The and is benevolent and selfless. Men which premortal spirits enter mortality. Great Plan of Happiness,” Ensign, and women of Christ lay hold upon Complete sexual abstinence before Nov. 1993, 74). the word of God, deny themselves marriage and total fidelity within and take up His cross (see Matthew marriage protect the sanctity of this The Standard of Sexual Morality 16:24; Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23; D&C sacred channel. The Church of Jesus Christ of 56:2), and press forward along a strait The power of procreation is Latter-day Saints has a single, unde- and narrow course of faithfulness, spiritually significant. Misuse of this viating standard of sexual morality: obedience, and devotion to the Savior power subverts the purposes of the intimate relations are proper only and His gospel. Father’s plan and of our mortal exis- between a man and a woman in the As sons and daughters of God, tence. Our Heavenly Father and His marriage relationship prescribed in we have inherited divine capacities Beloved Son are creators and have God’s plan. Such relations are not from Him. But we presently live in a entrusted each of us with a portion of merely a curiosity to be explored, an fallen world. The very elements out Their creative power. Specific guide- appetite to be satisfied, or a type of of which our bodies were created lines for the proper use of the ability recreation or entertainment to be pur- are by nature fallen and ever sub- to create life are vital elements in the sued selfishly. They are not a conquest ject to the pull of sin, corruption, Father’s plan. How we feel about and to be achieved or simply an act to be and death. Consequently, the Fall of use that supernal power will deter- performed. Rather, they are in mor- Adam and its spiritual and temporal mine in large measure our happiness tality one of the ultimate expressions consequences affect us most directly 42 through our physical bodies. And yet we are dual beings, for our spirit that is the eternal part of us is taberna- cled in a physical body that is subject to the Fall. As Jesus emphasized to the Apostle Peter, “The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). The precise nature of the test of mortality, then, can be summarized in the following question: Will I respond to the inclinations of the natural man, or will I yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit and put off the natural man and become a saint through the Atonement of Christ the Lord (see Mosiah 3:19)? That is the test. Every appetite, desire, propensity, and impulse of the natural man may be overcome by and through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. We are here on the earth to develop godlike qualities and to bridle all of the pas- the adversary’s eternal progress is not have is thus the primary target sions of the flesh. thwarted because he does not have a of his attempts to lure us to spiritual physical body. Because of his rebel- destruction. The Intent of the Adversary lion, Lucifer has denied himself all of Violating the law of chastity is The Father’s plan is designed to the mortal blessings and experiences a grievous sin and a misuse of our provide direction for His children, made possible through a body of physical tabernacles. To those who to help them become happy, and to flesh and bones. He cannot learn the know and understand the plan of bring them safely home to Him with lessons that only an embodied spirit salvation, defiling the body is an act resurrected, exalted bodies. Heavenly can learn. He resents the reality of a of rebellion (see Mosiah 2:36–37; Father desires us to be together in the literal and universal resurrection of all D&C 64:34–35) and a denial of our light and filled with hope. In con- mankind. One of the potent scriptural true identity as sons and daughters trast, Lucifer labors to make the sons meanings of the word damned is of God. As we look beyond mortality and daughters of God confused and illustrated in his inability to continue and into eternity, it is easy to discern unhappy and to hinder their eternal developing and becoming like our that the counterfeit companionship progression. The overarching intent of Heavenly Father. advocated by the adversary is tempo- the father of lies is that all of us would Because a physical body is so cen- rary and empty. become “miserable like unto him- tral to the Father’s plan of happiness self” (2 Nephi 2:27). Lucifer wants us and our spiritual development, Lucifer The Blessings of Being Chaste ultimately to be alone in the dark and seeks to frustrate our progression by Alma counseled his son Shiblon to without hope. tempting us to use our bodies improp- “bridle all [of his] passions, that [he] Satan relentlessly works to distort erly. One of the ultimate ironies of may be filled with love” (Alma 38:12). the most important elements of the eternity is that the adversary, who is Significantly, disciplining the natural Father’s plan. He does not have a miserable precisely because he has no man in each of us makes possible a body, and his eternal progress has physical body, entices us to share in richer, a deeper, and a more enduring been halted. Just as water flowing in his misery through the improper use love of God and of His children. Love a riverbed is stopped by a dam, so of our bodies. The very tool he does increases through righteous restraint

May 2013 43 and decreases through impulsive The Principle of Repentance and heal. Please remember, however, indulgence. Some of you who receive this that the extent and intensity of your President Marion G. Romney message need to repent of sexual or repentance must match the nature and declared: other sins. The Savior is often referred severity of your sins—especially for “I can think of no blessings to be to as the Great Physician, and this title Latter-day Saints who are under sacred more fervently desired than those has both symbolic and literal signifi- covenant. Serious spiritual wounds promised to the pure and the virtuous. cance. All of us have experienced the require sustained treatment and time Jesus spoke of specific rewards for dif- pain associated with a physical injury to heal completely and fully. ferent virtues but reserved the great- or wound. When we are in pain, we est, so it seems to me, for the pure in typically seek relief and are grateful A Promise and a Testimony heart, ‘for they,’ said he, ‘shall see God’ for the medication and treatments The doctrine I have described will (Matt. 5:8). And not only shall they see that help to alleviate our suffering. seem to be archaic and outdated to the Lord, but they shall feel at home in Consider sin as a spiritual wound many people in a world that increas- his presence. that causes guilt or, as described by ingly mocks the sanctity of procreation “Here is . . . the Savior’s prom- Alma to his son Corianton, “remorse and minimizes the worth of human ise: ‘Let virtue garnish thy thoughts of conscience” (Alma 42:18). Guilt life. But the Lord’s truth is not altered unceasingly; then shall thy confidence is to our spirit what pain is to our by fads, popularity, or public opinion wax strong in the presence of God’ body—a warning of danger and a polls. I promise that obedience to the (D&C 121:45)” (“Trust in the Lord,” protection from additional damage. law of chastity will increase our hap- Ensign, May 1979, 42). From the Atonement of the Savior piness in mortality and make possible We also are promised that, as we flows the soothing salve that can heal our progress in eternity. Chastity and pursue the pathway of virtue, “the Holy our spiritual wounds and remove virtue are now, always have been, and Ghost shall be [our] constant compan- guilt. However, this salve can only be always will be “most dear and pre- ion” (D&C 121:46). Thus, living the law applied through the principles of faith cious above all things” (Moroni 9:9). of chastity invites some of the greatest in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, I so testify in the sacred name of the blessings men and women can receive and consistent obedience. The results Lord Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ in mortality: appropriate spiritual of sincere repentance are peace of confidence in the presence of family, conscience, comfort, and spiritual friends, Church associates, and, ulti- healing and renewal. Short Video Highlight mately, the Savior. Our innate longing Your bishop or branch president Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf7 to to belong is fulfilled in righteousness as is the spiritual physician’s assistant watch or share a short video we walk in the light with hope. who is authorized to help you repent clip of this message. 44 By Elder Russell M. Nelson rising generation to be worthy of Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles missionary service. Meanwhile, your exemplary lives will attract the interest of your friends and neighbors. Be ready to give an answer to those who ask why you live as you do. Be ready Catch the Wave to give a reason for the hope and joy that they see in you.2 When such I thank God and His Son, Jesus Christ, for the Restoration questions come, you might respond by saying, “Let’s ask the missionaries! and its power to propel a magnificent wave of truth and They can help us! And if you desire, I righteousness across the earth. will be at your side as the missionaries respond and teach you.” You adults, catch the wave with help for the spiritual, physical, and ear brothers and sisters, I add you wish to attend a college or univer- financial preparation of future mis- my voice to that of President sity after your mission, we encourage sionaries. Pinching pennies for piggy DThomas S. Monson and others you to apply to your institution of banks becomes part of your practice. in praising those who have responded choice before beginning your mission. You senior couples, you plan for to a prophet’s call for more worthy Many institutions of higher learning the day when you can go on your missionaries. Now an unprecedented will grant an 18- to 30-month deferral mission. We will be most grateful for wave of enthusiasm for missionary to prospective missionaries. This will your service. Until then, perhaps some work is sweeping the entire earth. enable you elders and sisters to serve of you could send your dollars on mis- Since President Monson’s historic without worrying about where you sions by contributing to the General announcement last October, thou- will begin your advanced education. Missionary Fund, as suggested by sands of elders, sisters, and couples We are very grateful to leaders of edu- President Monson again this morning.3 have been called, and many more are cational institutions who are making Increasing numbers of selected preparing.1 Now we get questions such planning possible! men and their dear companions catch like “What are you going to do with You parents, teachers, and others, the wave as they are called to preside all these missionaries?” The answer is catch the wave as you prepare our over missions of the Church. In that simple. They will do what missionaries service they will shape the destiny of have always done. They will preach generations born and unborn. Mission the gospel! They will bless the chil- presidents hold keys of responsibility dren of Almighty God! for the welfare, safety, and success More of you young men and of their missionaries. After consulting women will catch this wave as you with stake and district presidents in strive to be worthy of mission calls. his mission, each mission president You see this as a wave of truth and assigns missionaries to serve in spe- righteousness. You see your opportu- cific stakes, wards, and branches. nity to be on the crest of that wave. Stake presidents and bishops catch You teenagers, embrace your new the wave as they spend more and curriculum and teach one another the more hours interviewing prospective doctrine of Jesus Christ. Now is your missionaries. These priesthood leaders time to prepare to teach others about hold keys of responsibility for mis- the goodness of God. sionary work in their units, and they Young men and women, your inspire members to participate. education is ever important—to us, Brothers and sisters on each ward to you, and to God. Where feasible, if council are beginning to catch the

May 2013 45 Because our living God is a loving God! He wants His children to know Him and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent! 9 And He wants His children to gain immortality and eternal life! 10 For this glorious purpose, our missionaries teach of the Restoration. They know that some 2,000 years ago, the Lord established His Church. After His Crucifixion and the death of His Apostles, men changed the Church and its doctrine. Then, after generations of spiritual darkness, and as predicted by previous prophets,11 Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ restored the Church, its doctrine, and its priesthood authority. Because of that Restoration, knowledge and essential ordinances for salvation and exaltation are again available to all people.12 Ultimately, that exaltation allows each of us to dwell with our families in the presence of God and Jesus Christ forever! I cannot speak of the Restoration in tempered tones. This fact of history is wave. On that council is the ward and missionaries in this sacred work absolutely stunning! It is incredible! It mission leader.4 I would like to speak of rescuing God’s children.5 is breathtaking! How amazing is it that specifically to each of you ward mis- Our inquiring friends and neigh- messengers from heaven came to give sion leaders. You have been called bors not of our faith can also catch authority and power to this work? by your bishop to lead missionary the wave. We encourage them to Our Eternal Father and Jesus Christ work in the ward. And some of you keep all that is good and true in their made multiple appearances to the are so successful that an assistant has lives. And we invite them to receive Prophet Joseph Smith.13 Under Their also been called to help you. Along more, especially the glorious truth that direction, other heavenly messengers with others on the ward council, through God’s eternal plan, families came, each with a specific purpose. you identify less-active members, can be together forever.6 For example: part-member families, and interested This wave of truth and righteous- neighbors. You meet regularly with ness is wondrous! It is not man- • The angel Moroni revealed the assigned full-time missionaries. You made! It comes from the Lord, who Book of Mormon.14 advise and assist the missionaries. said, “I will hasten my work in its • John the Baptist restored the Please help them to fill their daily time.” 7 This wave is empowered by Aaronic Priesthood.15 planners with focused and mean- a divine announcement made 193 • Peter, James, and John restored the ingful teaching opportunities. This is years ago. It consisted of only seven Melchizedek Priesthood.16 your responsibility. Your role is cru- words: “This is My Beloved Son. Hear • Moses bestowed keys for the gath- cial, truly crucial to the success of this Him!” 8 Uttered by Almighty God, ering of Israel.17 work. If you catch the wave with faith that announcement introduced a • Elias conferred keys of knowledge and enthusiasm, others will also. You, young Joseph Smith to the Lord Jesus about Abraham.18 as the ward mission leader, are the Christ. Those seven words launched • Elijah restored keys of the sealing connecting link between members the Restoration of His gospel. Why? authority.19 46 In addition, the Restoration fulfilled by the sacred work of our the mission of the angel Moroni and added knowledge that Saints had growing army of missionaries. the Book of Mormon.30 anciently. The Lord provided a Old Testament teachings about tith- The Book of Mormon is the cen- new book of scripture. To the ing have been restored.25 As a result, terpiece of the Restoration. It was Holy Bible, He added the Book more tithe payers are blessed because written, preserved, and transmitted of Mormon: Another Testament of their obedience. References to under the Lord’s direction. It was of Jesus Christ. It is a record of Melchizedek are clarified by scrip- translated “by the gift and power of prophecies and the ministry of the tures of the Restoration.26 Prophecies God.” 31 The book of Doctrine and resurrected Lord to the people of that the stick of Joseph (the Book of Covenants contains many additional ancient America. It explains God’s Mormon) and the stick of Judah (the revelations given to the Prophet great plan of happiness 20—the plan Bible) would be as one in God’s hand Joseph Smith. Through him we of salvation.21 The Book of Mormon have now been fulfilled.27 have received more pages of scrip- is in full harmony with the Bible. The Restoration also clarifies New ture than we have from any other Both sacred records affirm the truth Testament scriptures. Its reference to prophet. In what must have been of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the baptism for the dead is now better a wistful moment, he said to the importance of His Atonement.22 understood.28 Ordinances for our Saints in Nauvoo, Illinois, “I never The Restoration fulfills many bib- deceased ancestors are now per- told you I was perfect; but there is lical prophecies. For example, Isaiah formed vicariously in 141 temples no error in the revelations which I prophesied that the Lord’s house throughout the world! There is have taught.” 32 shall be established in the top of the no other way to offer salvation to Together, members and mission­ mountains.23 The exodus of Mormon our ancestors who died without a aries invite all to learn of God, of Jesus pioneers to the mountains of western knowledge of the gospel! 29 John the Christ, and of His gospel. Each inquir- America is a fulfilling saga of sac- Revelator’s vision of “another angel ing individual should seek earnestly rifice and faith. Isaiah also foretold [flying] in the midst of heaven, having and pray fervently for the assurance that God will do “a marvellous work the everlasting gospel to preach unto that these things are true. The truth and a wonder.” 24 That is now being them that dwell on the earth,” foretold will be manifest by the power of the Holy Ghost.33 I thank God and His Son, Jesus Christ, for the Restoration and its power to propel a magnificent wave of truth and righteousness across the earth. May we catch this wave and fulfill the Lord’s command to take the gospel “to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and peo- ple,” 34 I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ NOTES 1. See Thomas S. Monson, “Welcome to Conference,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 4–5. 2. See 1 Peter 3:15. 3. See Thomas S. Monson, “It’s Conference Once Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 6. 4. See Handbook 2: Administering the Church (2010), 5.1. 5. We are grateful for Saints who are sincerely striving for consecration. They are trying to be more holy. They seek “first to build up the kingdom of God, and to

May 2013 47 PRIESTHOOD SESSION | April 6, 2013

establish his righteousness” ( Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 6:38 [in Matthew 6:33, footnote a]). 6. See “Families Can Be Together Forever,” By Elder Robert D. Hales Hymns, no. 300; additional clarification Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is found in Doctrine and Covenants 132:7, 19. 7. Doctrine and Covenants 88:73. 8. Joseph Smith—History 1:17. 9. See John 17:3. 10. See Moses 1:39. 11. See Matthew 17:11; Acts 3:20–21; Stand Strong Ephesians 1:10; 2 Nephi 30:8; Doctrine and Covenants 132:40, 45. 12. See 3 Nephi 27:13–14, 21; Doctrine and Covenants 39:6; Articles of Faith 1:4. in Holy Places 13. See Karl R. Anderson, The Savior in Kirtland (2012), 228–43. 14. See Doctrine and Covenants 27:5; see also Standing obedient and strong on the doctrine of our God, Joseph Smith—History 1:33–34. 15. See Doctrine and Covenants 13. we stand in holy places, for His doctrine is sacred and 16. See Doctrine and Covenants 20:2–3; 27:12; 128:20; see also Larry C. Porter, will not change. “Dating the Restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood,” Ensign, June 1979, 4–10. 17. See Doctrine and Covenants 110:11. 18. See Doctrine and Covenants 110:12. rethren, it is an honor to be with “Wherefore take unto you the 19. See Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–16. 20. See Alma 42, especially verse 8. the holders of the royal priesthood whole armour of God, that ye may be 21. See, for example, Alma 12:28–30. of God. We are living in the last able to withstand in the evil day, and 22. See, for example, 1 Corinthians 15:22; B 1 days, in “perilous times.” As bearers of having done all, to stand. Alma 34:9. 23. See Isaiah 2:2. the priesthood, we have the responsi- “Stand therefore, having your loins 24. Isaiah 29:14. bility to stand strong with a shield of girt about with truth, and having on 25. See Genesis 14:18–20; Malachi 3:8–10; faith against the fiery darts of the adver- the breastplate of righteousness; Doctrine and Covenants 119–20. 26. See Genesis 14:18; Psalm 110:4; see also sary. We are role models to the world, “And your feet shod with the prepa­ Alma 13:14–18; Doctrine and Covenants protecting God-given, inalienable rights ration of the gospel of peace; 84:14–22. and freedoms. We stand in defense of “Above all, taking the shield of faith, 27. See Ezekiel 37:16, 19; Doctrine and Covenants 27:5. our homes and our families. wherewith ye shall be able to quench 28. See 1 Corinthians 15:29; Doctrine and When I was in the ninth grade, I all the fiery darts of the wicked. Covenants 128. returned from my first out-of-town “And take the helmet of salvation, 29. See Doctrine and Covenants 137:7; 138:31–34. game with the varsity baseball team. and the sword of the Spirit, which is 2 30. Revelation 14:6; see also Doctrine and My father discerned that on the the word of God.” Covenants 133:36–39. long bus ride home I had witnessed Brethren, if we are faithful in the 31. Title page of the Book of Mormon, authored by Moroni; Doctrine and language and behavior that was not priesthood, this armor will be given Covenants 135:3. in harmony with the standards of the to us as a gift from God. We need 32. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: gospel. Being a professional artist, this armor! Joseph Smith (2007), 522. he sat down and drew a picture of a Young men, your fathers and 33. See Moroni 10:4–5. 34. Revelation 14:6; see also 1 Nephi 19:17; knight—a warrior capable of defend- grandfathers never faced the tempta- Doctrine and Covenants 133:37. ing castles and kingdoms. tions that you face on a regular basis. As he drew and read from the You are living in the last days. If your scriptures, I learned how to be a father wanted to get in trouble, he had Short Video Highlight faithful priesthood holder—to protect to go searching for it. Not anymore! Scan this QR code or visit and defend the kingdom of God. Today temptation finds you! Please lds.org/go/Apr13Conf8 to watch or share a short video The words of the Apostle Paul were remember that! Satan desires to have clip of this message. my guide: you, and “sin lieth at the door.” 3 How 48 will you resist his aggressive tactics? Put on the whole armor of God. Let me teach you from another experience of my life: In January of 1982, I spoke in a devotional on the BYU campus in Provo, Utah. I invited the students to imagine that the Church was on one side of the podium, right here, and the world was just a foot or two away on the other side. This represented the “very short distance between where the world was and where the Church standards were” when I was in college. Then, standing before the students 30 years later, I held up my hands in the same manner and explained, “The world has gone far afield; [it has trav- eled; it is nowhere to be seen;] it has proceeded way, way out, all the way out of this [building and around the world]. . . . What we and our children and our grandchildren have to remem- ber is that the Church will remain con- stant, [it’s still right here; yet] the world will keep moving—that gap is [becom- ing] wider and wider. . . . Therefore, be very careful. If you judge your actions and the standards of the Church on the basis of where the world is and where it’s going, you will find that you are not values.” A true friend doesn’t ask us to law of chastity, prepare for and receive where you should be.” 4 choose between the gospel and his or the Melchizedek Priesthood, and make Back then I could not have imagined her friendship. To borrow the words sacred covenants in the temple, then how far and how fast the world would of Paul, “From such turn away.” 6 A we are prepared to serve. move away from God; it was impos- true friend strengthens us to stay on In the temple we are prepared to sible to understand that, given doctrine, the strait and narrow path. and promise to live the law of con- principles, and commandments. And yet Staying on the gospel path of cov- secration. Able young men begin to the standards of Christ and His Church enants, commandments, and ordi- live this law by seeking a mission have not moved. As He said, “The truth nances protects us and prepares us to call—giving a tithing of the first years abideth forever and ever.” 5 When we do God’s work in this world. When of their lives in the full-time service understand and accept this, we are we obey the Word of Wisdom, our of the Lord. That sacrifice strengthens prepared to face the social pressure, agency is protected from addictions them to go forward to the highest ridicule, and even discrimination that to substances like alcohol, drugs, and covenant in life—for many, it will be will come from the world and some tobacco. As we pay our tithing, study to be sealed in the temple and begin who call themselves friends. the scriptures, receive baptism and an eternal family. Most of us know someone who confirmation, live for the constant com- As we press forward along the strait would say, “If you want to be my panionship of the Holy Ghost, partake and narrow path, we build progressive friend, you’ll have to accept my of the sacrament worthily, obey the spiritual strength—strength in using

May 2013 49 our agency to act for ourselves. For Along the way, be sure to partici­ are able to stand against any philoso- both young men and young women, pate in family, quorum, class, and phy or creed that denies the Savior and this growth is aided as they learn combined Mutual activities. Enjoy contradicts the great, eternal plan of doctrine and share their testimonies wholesome fun together. Through happiness for all of God’s children. through the new online curriculum, these experiences you will come to We are not authorized to nego- Come, Follow Me. respect and appreciate one another’s tiate the conditions of that eternal In addition, use your agency to spiritual gifts and the eternal, com- plan. Remember Nehemiah, who develop yourself personally. As you plementary natures of the sons and was charged with building a wall to discover your gifts and talents, remem- daughters of God. protect Jerusalem. Some wanted him ber that parents and mentors may assist Above all, have faith in the Savior! to come down and compromise his you, but you must let the Spirit guide Fear not! As we diligently live the position, but Nehemiah refused. He you. Choose and act for yourself. Be gospel, we become strong in the Lord. was not intolerant of others; he simply motivated from within. Make a plan for With His strength we are able to reject explained, “I am doing a great work, your life, including education or voca- the anti-Christ who says, “Eat, drink, so that I cannot come down: why tional training. Explore interests and and be merry,” for God “will justify should the work cease . . . ?” 8 skills. Work and become self-reliant. Set [you] in committing a little sin; . . . there Sometimes we become the light- goals, overcome mistakes, gain experi- is no harm in this . . . , for tomorrow ning rod, and we must “take the heat” ence, and finish what you begin. we die.” 7 In the strength of the Lord we for holding fast to God’s standards and doing His work. I testify that we need not be afraid if we are grounded in His doctrine. We may experience misunderstanding, criticism, and even false accusation, but we are never alone. Our Savior was “despised and rejected of men.” 9 It is our sacred privilege­ to stand with Him! Ironically, standing strong some- times means avoiding and even fleeing from the world. The Savior declared, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” 10 Joseph of Egypt ran from the temptations of Potiphar’s wife,11 and Lehi left behind Jerusalem and took his family into the wilderness.12 Be assured that all of the prophets before us stood strong in their day: Nephi performed the curious work of the Lord despite the buffetings of Satan and the persecutions of Laman and Lemuel, his brothers.13 Abinadi testified of Christ in the face of suspicion, scorn, and certain death.14 The 2,000 stripling warriors defended their families against those who despised gospel values.15 Moroni raised the title of liberty to preserve his people’s families and religious freedom.16 Samuel stood on a wall and proph- esied of Christ’s coming while rocks and arrows were assailing him.17 The Prophet Joseph Smith restored the Savior’s gospel, sealing his testi- mony with his blood.18 And Mormon pioneers stood strong in the face of withering opposition and hardship, following a prophet in their great trek and settle- ment of the West. These great servants and Saints of God were able to stand strong because they stood with the Savior. Consider how the Savior stood strong: As a young man, Jesus faithfully went about His Father’s business, preaching the gospel to the learned men in the temple.19 Throughout His ministry, He accomplished the work of the priesthood—teaching, heal- ing, serving, and blessing and lifting others. When appropriate, He boldly stood against evil, even cleansing the temple.20 He also stood for truth— whether with words or with dignified silence. When the chief priests accused participate in His work. “Wherefore, 7. 2 Nephi 28:8. Him before Caiaphas, Jesus wisely and stand ye in holy places, and be not 8. Nehemiah 6:3. 26 9. Isaiah 53:3; Mosiah 14:3. courageously refused to respond to moved.” Standing obedient and 10. Luke 4:8. untruth and held His peace.21 strong on the doctrine of our God, 11. See Genesis 39:7–12. In the Garden of Gethsemane, our we stand in holy places, for His doc- 12. See 1 Nephi 2. 13. See, for example, 1 Nephi 18. Savior and Redeemer did not shrink trine is sacred and will not change 14. See Mosiah 11–17. from drinking the bitter cup of the in the social and political winds of 15. See Alma 53, 56–58. Atonement.22 And on the cross He our day. I declare, as did the Apostle 16. See Alma 46:11–13. 17. See Helaman 13–16. suffered again to do His Father’s will, Paul, “Watch ye, stand fast in the 18. See Doctrine and Covenants 135. until at last He could say, “It is fin- faith, [behave] like men, [and] be 19. See Luke 2:46–49. ished.” 23 He had endured to the end. In strong.” 27 This is my fervent prayer 20. See Matthew 21:12–13. 21. See Matthew 26:57, 59–63. response to the Savior’s perfect obedi- for you in the holy name of Jesus 22. See Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19. ence in standing strong, our Heavenly Christ, amen. ◼ 23. John 19:30. Father declared, “Behold my Beloved 24. 3 Nephi 11:7. NOTES 25. Alma 13:3; see also 2 Timothy 1:9. Son, in whom I am well pleased, in 1. 2 Timothy 3:1. 26. Doctrine and Covenants 87:8. whom I have glorified my name.” 24 2. Ephesians 6:13–17; emphasis added. 27. 1 Corinthians 16:13. My beloved priesthood brethren 3. Moses 5:23. 4. Robert D. Hales, “This Is the Way; and young and old, let us glorify God’s There Is None Other Way,” in Brigham name by standing strong with our Young University 1981–82 Speeches (1982), Short Video Highlight Savior, Jesus Christ. I bear my special 3–4; available at speeches.byu.edu. Scan this QR code or visit 5. Doctrine and Covenants 1:39; emphasis lds.org/go/Apr13Conf9 to witness that He lives and that we added. watch or share a short video “are called with a holy calling” 25 to 6. 2 Timothy 3:5. clip of this message.

May 2013 51 By Elder Tad R. Callister In my mind there are at least three key Of the Presidency of the Seventy factors that contribute to such dramatic growth in the mission years: (1) we trust these young men as never before, (2) we have high but loving expec- tations of them, and (3) we train and The Power of the retrain them so they can fulfill those expectations with excellence. One might appropriately ask, Priesthood in the Boy “Why could not these same principles be employed with deacons quorum presidents?” If that were done, perhaps The priesthood in the boy is just as powerful as the priesthood the growth would commence much in the man when exercised in righteousness. earlier and look more like the green line on the graph. For a moment, may I address how these principles might apply to a deacons quorum president. n 1878 my great-grandfather teach him a lesson that the priesthood First—trust. We can entrust our George F. Richards was 17 years in the boy is just as powerful as the deacons quorum presidents with Iof age. As was sometimes the case priesthood in the man when exercised great responsibility. The Lord cer- in those days, he had already been in righteousness. tainly does—as demonstrated by ordained an elder. One Sunday his Tonight I would like to speak about His willingness to give them keys, mother was groaning in intense pain. that power. Though I will refer to meaning the right to preside over As his father was not available, the deacons quorum presidents, the prin- and direct the work in their quo- bishop and several others were invited ciples discussed apply to all Aaronic rum. As an evidence of this trust, we to give her a blessing, but no relief Priesthood youth and their respective call deacons quorum presidents by came. Accordingly, she turned to her leaders, including our teachers quo- revelation, not solely by seniority or son George and asked him to lay hands rum presidents and assistants to the any other similar factor. Every leader on her head. He wrote in his diary, “In priests quorum president. in this Church, including the deacons the midst of my tears for my mother’s While serving as a mission pres- quorum president, has the right to suffering and the task of performing an ident, I observed that there was a know, and should know, that he has administration such as I had never yet dramatic increase in the spirituality and been called by revelation. This assur- done, I retired to another room where I leadership skills of young men during ance helps him know that God both wept and prayed.” their mission years. If we could some- trusts him and sustains him. When he became composed, he how quantify these qualities over their The second and third attributes laid his hands on her and gave her a Aaronic Priesthood and mission years, are interconnected—high expecta- very simple blessing. He later noted, perhaps they would look something tions and the related training to fulfill “My mother ceased her groaning like the blue line you see on this graph. them. I learned a great lesson in the and received relief from her suffer- mission field: missionaries generally ing while my hands were yet on her Mission Years rise or fall to the mission president’s head.” He then recorded in his diary level of expectation, and so it is with this most insightful observation. He deacons quorum presidents. If they said he had always felt that the reason are expected only to conduct quorum his mother did not get relief from the meetings and attend bishopric youth bishop’s blessing was not because committee meetings, then that is all the Lord failed to honor the bishop’s 12 14 16 18 20 they will do. But you leaders can give blessing but because the Lord had them a greater vision—the Lord’s reserved this blessing for a boy, to Spirituality and Leadership vision. And why is vision so critical? 52 Because with increased vision comes 42:61). The Lord is most generous in sensitive to the needs of those who increased motivation. giving revelation. Did He not remind face special challenges? Inherent in every calling in this Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, And finally this wise leader might Church is the right to receive revela- “As often as thou hast inquired thou teach him how to recognize and act tion. Hence, these deacons quorum hast received instruction of my Spirit” upon revelation when it comes. We presidents need to know they have (D&C 6:14)? And so it can be with you live in an action-packed, fast-paced the right to receive revelation to rec- deacons quorum presidents. The Lord world where bright lights and high- ommend their counselors, the right to loves you and wants to reveal to you volume speakers are the norm. But receive revelation concerning rescue His mind and will. Could you ever this young man needs to know that of the lost, and the right to receive rev- imagine the Lord having a problem He this is the world’s way, not the Lord’s elation to train the quorum members could not solve? I can’t. Because you way. The Savior was born in the in their duties. are entitled to revelation, He can help relative anonymity of a manger; He A wise leader will teach the dea- you solve every concern you have as performed the most magnificent and cons quorum president those princi- president of your quorum if you will incomparable act of all time in the ples that will be helpful in obtaining but seek His help. quiet of a garden; and Joseph received revelation. He may teach him the You wonderful leaders might his First Vision in the seclusion of a unequivocal promise of the Lord: teach this deacons quorum presi- grove. God’s answers come by the “If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive dent that revelation is not a substi- still, small voice—feelings of peace revelation upon revelation” (D&C tute for hard work and homework. or comfort, impressions to do good, President Henry B. Eyring once enlightenment—sometimes in the asked President Harold B. Lee, form of tiny seeds of thoughts which “How do I get revelation?” President if reverenced and nourished can grow Lee responded, “If you want to get into spiritual redwoods. Sometimes revelation, do your homework.” 1 these impressions or thoughts might The wise leader might discuss with even cause you deacons quorum pres- his deacons quorum president some idents to recommend as a counselor of the spiritual homework he might or extend an assignment to a young do in preparing to recommend his man who is currently less active. counselors. He might need to ask Years ago as a stake presidency, we and answer questions such as: Who felt impressed to call a good man as would be a good example that could stake clerk. At the time he was tempo- lift the other boys? Or who would be rarily struggling with regular Church

May 2013 53 raise the bar and vision for these young men, and they will respond. You leaders lift these deacons quorum presidents best when you let them lead out and you step back from the spotlight. You have magni- fied your calling best not when you give a great lesson but when you help them give a great lesson, not when you rescue the one but when you help them do so. attendance. We knew, however, that if should be the burning, driving, un­ There is an old saying: do not die he accepted the calling, he would do relenting resolve to go get the lost and with your music still in you. In like a marvelous job. bring them back. manner I would say to you adult We extended the call, but he One young man who was visited leaders, do not get released with your replied, “No, I don’t think I can do it.” by his quorum members said: “It was leadership skills still in you. Teach Then an impression came. I said, surprising today when . . . 30 peo- our youth at every opportunity; teach “Well, I guess the Glendale stake ple just came up to my house. . . . It them how to prepare an agenda, how won’t have a stake clerk then.” makes me want to go to church now.” to conduct meetings with dignity Shocked, he responded, “What are How can a youth resist love and atten- and warmth, how to rescue the one, you talking about? You have to have a tion like that? how to prepare and give an inspired stake clerk.” I am thrilled when I hear the many lesson, and how to receive revela- I replied, “Do you want us now to stories of deacons quorum presi- tion. This will be the measure of your call someone else to serve as stake dents who have caught the vision success—the legacy of leadership and clerk when the Lord impressed us to and occasionally are teaching all spirituality you leave ingrained in the call you?” or part of the lesson in their quo- hearts and minds of these young men. “OK,” he said, “I’ll do it.” rum meetings. Several weeks ago I If you deacons quorum presi- And do it he did. There are not attended a deacons quorum class. dents will magnify your calling, you only many men but also many boys A 12-year-old boy gave a 25-minute will be instruments in God’s hands who will respond to a call when they lesson on the Atonement. He com- even now, for the priesthood in the know the Lord is calling them and that menced by asking his fellow deacons boy is just as powerful as the priest- the Lord needs them. what they thought the Atonement hood in the man when exercised in Next you can let this deacons was. Then he shared some meaning- righteousness. And then when you quorum president know that one of ful scriptures and asked thoughtful make temple covenants and become the Lord’s expectations of him is to questions, to which they responded. the missionaries and future leaders rescue the lost, both less active and Realizing, however, there was more of this Church, you will know how to nonmember. The Lord declared His time than remaining lesson material, receive revelation, how to rescue the central mission in these terms: “For the he had enough presence of mind and one, and how to teach the doctrine of Son of man is come to save that which perhaps some forewarning from his the kingdom with power and author- was lost” (Matthew 18:11). If it is a father to ask the leaders who were ity. Then you will have become the priority of the Savior to rescue the lost, present what questions they had youth of the noble birthright. Of this I if it is a priority of President Thomas S. been asked about the Atonement on so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, Monson to do so, as demonstrated their missions and their responses. He who is the Savior and Redeemer of by his entire life, should it not be a then concluded with his testimony. I the world, amen. ◼ priority of every leader, every deacons listened in awe. I thought to myself, NOTE quorum president in this Church to do “I don’t recall ever giving a signifi- 1. In Henry B. Eyring, “Waiting Upon the Lord,” in Brigham Young University likewise? At the core of our leader- cant part of a lesson when I was an 1990–91 Devotional and Fireside Speeches ship, as a central part of our ministry, Aaronic Priesthood youth.” We can (1991), 17. 54 By David L. Beck her close friends, no one bullied Chy Young Men General President anymore. This was an exciting season for the football team. But even with the thrill of an undefeated season, these young men did not forget about Chy. They Your Sacred Duty invited her to join the team on the field after games. Chy felt loved and appre- ciated. She felt safe. She was happy. to Minister The football team went on to win the state title. But something more important than a football championship You received the power, the authority, and the sacred duty to happened at their school. The exam- minister the moment you were ordained to the priesthood. ple of these young men has motivated other students to be more accepting, more friendly. They now treat each other with more kindness and respect. The Joy of Ministering asked him to help her find out who National news media found out Young men of the Aaronic was doing the bullying. what these young men had done and Priesthood, you are beloved sons of Carson agreed to help, but in his shared their story across the country. God, and He has a great work for you heart he felt that he could do much What began as an effort to minister to to do. To accomplish this work, you more than just identify the bullies. one is inspiring thousands of others to must fulfill your sacred duty to minis- The Spirit whispered to him that he do the same. ter to others.1 needed to help Chy feel loved. Chy’s mother calls these young Do you know what it means to Carson asked some of his team- men “angels in disguise.” Carson and minister? Think about this question mates to join him in ministering to his friends are quick to say that Chy while I tell you about a girl named Chy. They invited her to sit with them has blessed their lives much more Chy Johnson. during lunch. They walked her to than they blessed hers. That’s what When Chy started high school last class to make sure she was safe. Not happens when you lose yourself in year, she became the victim of cruel surprisingly, with football players as serving others—you find yourself.2 and thoughtless bullying. She was mistreated, shoved, and taunted as she walked to class—some students even threw garbage at her. You have proba- bly seen people mistreated like this in your school too. For too many people, the teenage years are a time of loneliness and fear. It doesn’t have to be this way. Fortunately for Chy, there were young men at her school who understood what it means to minister. Chy’s mother had asked teach- ers at the school to help stop the bullying, but it continued. She then contacted Carson Jones, an Aaronic Priesthood holder and the starting quarterback of the football team. She

May 2013 55 Your Family Start in your own home. This is where you can do your most impor- tant ministering.8 Do you want to try an interesting experiment? The next time your mother asks for your help around the house, say something like, “Thank you for ask- ing, Mom. I would love to help.” Then watch her reaction. Some of you might want to brush up on your first aid skills before you try this. You may send her into shock. After you revive her, you’ll find a noticeable improvement in your relationship with her and an increase of the Spirit in your home. That’s just one way to minister to your family; there are many others. You minister as you speak kind words to family members. You minister as you treat your siblings like your best friends. Perhaps most important, you min- ister as you assist your father in his duties as the spiritual leader in your home. Give your full support and encouragement to family home eve- ning, family prayer, and family scripture You change and grow in ways that You don’t have to be a star athlete study. Do your part to ensure that the would not be possible otherwise. to minister to others. You received the Spirit is present in your home. This will These young men have experienced power, the authority, and the sacred strengthen your father in his role and the joy of ministering and continue duty to minister the moment you were prepare you to be a father someday. If to seek opportunities to bless others. ordained to the priesthood. President you do not have a father in your home, They are anxious to extend their min- James E. Faust taught, “Priesthood your responsibility to minister to your istering in the coming months when is the authority delegated to man to family is even more needed. they serve as full-time missionaries.3 minister in the name of God.” 4 The Aaronic Priesthood holds the keys of Your Quorum A Need and a Duty the ministering of angels.5 You also have a duty to minister in There are thousands of Chy Johnsons As you love His children, Heavenly your quorum. throughout the world—people who Father will guide you, and angels will The priesthood is expanding need to feel Heavenly Father’s love. assist you.6 You will be given power to across the world. Many of you are They are in your schools, in your quo- bless lives and rescue souls. heeding President Monson’s call to rums, and even in your family. Some Jesus Christ is your example. He rescue. There are more active Aaronic come to mind quickly. Others have “came not to be ministered unto, but Priesthood holders today than ever needs that are less obvious. Virtually to minister.” 7 To minister means to love before in the history of the Church. everyone you know could be blessed and care for others. It means to attend Yet there are still those who are not in some way by your ministering. The to their physical and spiritual needs. active and who need you. Lord is counting on you to reach out Put simply, it means to do what the Last June, when a new branch was to them. Savior would do if He were here. created in Bangalore, India, the only 56 young man in priesthood meeting was The youth curriculum encourages just on Sunday and not only when a recently ordained deacon named these kinds of interactions in quo- we’re wearing white shirts and ties. Gladwin. rum meetings, but this can happen We have a duty to minister wherever Gladwin, along with the Young only when every member of the we stand. Ministering is not just some- Men president and branch president, quorum feels loved and respected. thing we do—it defines who we are. began calling the less-active young Mocking and teasing have no place in Minister every day. Opportunities men and visiting them in their homes. a quorum meeting—especially when are all around you. Look for them. Soon a second young man, Samuel, feelings are openly shared. Quorum Ask the Lord to help you recognize started coming to church again. presidencies must take the lead in them. You will find that most consist Each week Gladwin and Samuel ensuring that quorum meetings are a of small, sincere acts that help others called those who had not attended safe place for everyone to participate. become followers of Jesus Christ.11 quorum meeting and shared what The Apostle Paul admonished, “Let As you strive to be worthy of the they had learned. They also called or no corrupt communication proceed Spirit, you will recognize thoughts and visited them on their birthdays. One out of your mouth, but that which is feelings prompting you to minister. by one, the less-active young men good to the use of edifying, that it may As you act on these promptings, you became their friends and began to minister grace unto the hearers.” 10 will receive more of them and your accept invitations to come to quorum Priesthood holders never use vulgar opportunities and ability to minister activities, to attend quorum meetings, or filthy language. They never demean will increase and expand. and eventually to do their own minis- or hurt others. They always build up My young brethren, I testify that tering. Today, all of the young men in and strengthen others. This is a simple you have been given the authority the branch are active in the Church. but powerful way to minister. and power of the magnificent Aaronic The scriptures teach that Aaronic Priesthood to minister in God’s name. Priesthood quorums are to sit in At All Times I testify that as you do, you will be council and edify—or build up and The work of ministering is not con- an instrument in God’s hands to help strengthen—one another.9 You edify fined to ordinances or home teaching others. Your life will be richer and as you teach gospel truths, share spir- visits or occasional service projects. more meaningful. You will find greater itual experiences, and bear testimony. We are always priesthood men—not strength to resist evil. You will find true happiness—the kind that is known only by true followers of Jesus Christ. May you experience the joy of fulfill- ing your sacred duty to minister, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ NOTES 1. See Doctrine and Covenants 84:111. 2. See Mark 8:35. 3. See Trent Toone, “Kindness of Arizona High School QB Carson Jones and Team- mates Has Gone Viral,” Deseret News, Nov. 9, 2012, deseretnews.com/article/ 865566351/Kindness-of-Arizona-high- school-QB-Carson-Jones-and-teammates- has-gone-viral.html. 4. James E. Faust, “Message to My Grandsons,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 54; emphasis added. 5. See Doctrine and Covenants 13:1. 6. See Doctrine and Covenants 84:88. 7. See Matthew 20:27–28. 8. See Handbook 2: Administering the Church (2010), 2.4.5. 9. See Doctrine and Covenants 107:85. 10. Ephesians 4:29. 11. See Handbook 2, 3.2.3.

May 2013 57 By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Now, brethren, compared to the Second Counselor in the First Presidency perfection of God, we mortals are scarcely more than awkward, falter- ing toddlers. But our loving Heavenly Father wants us to become more like Him, and, dear brethren, that Four Titles should be our eternal goal too. God understands that we get there not in I would like to suggest four titles . . . that may help us an instant but by taking one step at a time. recognize our individual roles in God’s eternal plan I do not believe in a God who and our potential as priesthood holders. would set up rules and command- ments only to wait for us to fail so He could punish us. I believe in a Heavenly Father who is loving and y dear brethren and beloved Son of Heavenly Father caring and who rejoices in our every friends, it fills my heart with One title that defines all of us in effort to stand tall and walk toward Mgratitude and joy to be with the most fundamental way is son of Him. Even when we stumble, He you. I commend you fathers and Heavenly Father. No matter what else urges us not to be discouraged—never grandfathers who have brought your we are or do in life, we must never to give up or flee our allotted field of sons and grandsons. I congratulate forget that we are God’s literal spirit service—but to take courage, find our you young men who have chosen children. We were His children before faith, and keep trying. to be here today. This is the place we came to this world, and we will be Our Father in Heaven mentors for you to be. I hope you can feel His children forevermore. This basic His children and often sends unseen the brotherhood that unites us, truth should change the way we look heavenly help to those who desire to and I pray that here, among your at ourselves, our brothers and sisters, follow the Savior. brothers, you will find belonging, and life itself. support, and friendship. Unfortunately, none of us quite Disciple of Jesus Christ We men sometimes identify lives up to everything that this title And that leads us to the next title ourselves by titles. Many of us implies, “for all have sinned, and come we all have in common: all who have multiple titles, and each says short of the glory of God.” 1 strive earnestly to follow the Christ something important about our It can be discouraging at times are called His disciples. Although we identity. For example, some titles to know what it means to be a son recognize that none of us are perfect, describe our roles in families, of God and yet come up short. The we do not use that fact as an excuse such as son, brother, husband, and adversary likes to take advantage of to lower our expectations, to live father. Other titles describe our these feelings. Satan would rather beneath our privileges, to delay the occupations in the world, such as that you define yourself by your day of our repentance, or to refuse doctor, soldier, or craftsman. And sins instead of your divine potential. to grow into better, more perfect, some describe our positions within Brethren, don’t listen to him. more refined followers of our Master the Church. We have all seen a toddler learn and King. Today I would like to suggest four to walk. He takes a small step and Remember that The Church of titles that I believe apply to all priest- totters. He falls. Do we scold such an Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is built hood holders around the world—titles attempt? Of course not. What father not for men and women who are that may help us recognize our indi- would punish a toddler for stumbling? perfect or unaffected by mortal temp- vidual roles in God’s eternal plan and We encourage, we applaud, and we tations, but rather it is built for people our potential as priesthood holders in praise because with every small step, exactly like you and me. And it is built The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- the child is becoming more like his upon the rock of our Redeemer, the day Saints. parents. Lord Jesus Christ,2 through whose 58 Atonement we can be cleansed and become “fellowcitizens . . . of the household of God.” 3 Without the Atonement of Jesus Christ, life would be a dead-end road without hope or future. With the Atonement, life is an ennobling, inspiring journey of growth and devel- opment that leads to eternal life in the presence of our Heavenly Father. But while the Atonement is meant to help us all become more like Christ, it is not meant to make us all the same. Sometimes we confuse differences in personality with sin. We can even make the mistake of thinking that because someone is different from us, it must mean they are not pleasing to God. This line of thinking leads some to believe that the Church wants to create every member from a single mold—that each one should look, feel, think, and behave like every other. This would contradict the genius of God, who created every man different from his brother, every son different from his father. Even identical twins are not identical in their personalities and spiri- tual identities. It also contradicts the intent and Along our metaphorical path from Healer of Souls purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem to Golgotha, we will Brethren, if we truly follow our which acknowledges and protects the have many opportunities to abandon Lord Jesus Christ, we must embrace moral agency—with all its far-reaching our journey. At times it will seem a third title: healer of souls. We who consequences—of each and every that the path requires more than we have been ordained to the priesthood one of God’s children. As disciples had wished for. But as men of the of God are called to practice “the of Jesus Christ, we are united in our priesthood, we must have the cour- healer’s art.” 4 testimony of the restored gospel age to follow our Redeemer, even It is our job to build up, repair, and our commitment to keep God’s when our cross seems too heavy strengthen, uplift, and make whole. commandments. But we are diverse to bear. Our assignment is to follow the in our cultural, social, and political With every step we take following Savior’s example and reach out to preferences. the Son of God, we may be reminded those who suffer. We “mourn with The Church thrives when we take that we are not perfect yet. But let us those that mourn . . . and comfort advantage of this diversity and encour- be steadfast and constant disciples. those that stand in need of com- age each other to develop and use our Let us not give up. Let us be true to fort.” 5 We bind up the wounds of the talents to lift and strengthen our fellow our covenants. Let us never lose sight afflicted. We “succor the weak, lift disciples. of our Advocate and Redeemer as we up the hands which hang down, and Brethren, discipleship is a life- walk toward Him, one imperfect step strengthen the feeble knees.” 6 long journey following our Savior. after another. As home teachers, we are healers.

May 2013 59 As priesthood leaders, we are heal- valuable time, thoughts, means, and the heavens open and witness the ers. As fathers, sons, brothers, and energies in pursuit of prestige or promptings of the Holy Spirit show- husbands, we should be committed worldly goods or to be entertained ing us the way? Then let’s take up our and dedicated healers. We carry in by the newest and coolest electronic sickle and put our back into this great one hand a vial of consecrated oil for gadgets? work—a cause much greater than blessing the sick; in the other we carry The Lord has put before us the ourselves! a loaf of bread to feed the hungry; and divine promise that “whoso is faithful Serving God and our fellowmen in our hearts we carry the peaceable unto the obtaining these two priest- will challenge us and transform us word of God, “which healeth the hoods, . . . magnifying their calling, into something greater than we ever wounded soul.” 7 . . . [will] receive me, saith the Lord; thought possible. This is our first and foremost . . . and he that receiveth me receiveth Perhaps you might think that you responsibility as priesthood holders— my Father; . . . therefore all that my are not needed, that you are over- and it applies to both Aaronic and Father hath shall be given unto him.” 9 looked or unwanted, that you are Melchizedek Priesthood holders. It is beyond my power of thought nobody. The restored gospel of Jesus Christ to imagine all that this promise entails. I am sincerely sorry if any priest- blesses lives not just when we But I do know it is grand, it is divine, hood holder feels this way. Certainly believe it—but much more when it is eternal, and it is worth all of our you are not overlooked or unwanted we live it. It is in the application of efforts in life. by your Heavenly Father. He loves gospel principles that individuals are Knowing this, how can we not you. And I tell you with certainty that uplifted and families are strength- willingly and joyfully engage in serv- you are needed by your Church. ened. It is our privilege and responsi- ing the Lord and our fellowmen and Do you not know that “God hath bility not just to talk the talk but also living up to our responsibilities in the chosen the foolish things of the world to walk the walk. priesthood of God? to [put to shame] the wise; and God The Savior is the worker of mir- This is a most noble labor that will hath chosen the weak things of the acles. He is the great Healer. He is challenge our every sense and stretch world to [put to shame] the things our example, our light, even in the our every ability. Do we desire to see which are mighty”? 10 darkest moments, and He shows us the right way. Let us follow Him. Let us rise up to our role and become healers by serv- ing God and our fellowmen.

Heir of Eternal Life The fourth title we all share returns us to the first title in our list. As sons of our Heavenly Father, we are heirs to all that He has. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the chil- dren of God: “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” 8 Think of this, my beloved brethren. We are joint-heirs with Christ! So, does it make any sense that many of us spend so much of our 60 Perhaps it is true that we are part to play—your own notes to I pray that as you ponder the many weak. Perhaps we are not wise sing. Fail to perform them, and with titles of a worthy priesthood holder, or mighty. But when God works certainty the symphony will go on. you will discover a divine wind at through us, no one and nothing can But if you rise up and join the chorus your back, lifting you ever upward stand against us.11 and allow the power of God to work toward the great inheritance your This is why you are needed. You through you, you will see “the win- Heavenly Father has reserved for have your own special contribution dows of heaven” open, and He will you. I leave you this blessing and my to make, and God can magnify that “pour you out a blessing, that there testimony in the sacred name of Jesus contribution in a mighty way. Your shall not be room enough to receive Christ, amen. ◼ ability to contribute is not dependent it.” 12 Rise up to your true potential as upon your calling in the Church. a son of God, and you can be a force NOTES 1. Romans 3:23. Your opportunities for service are for good in your family, your home, 2. See Helaman 5:12. endless. If you are waiting on the your community, your nation, and 3. Ephesians 2:19. sidelines, I encourage you to get in indeed in the world. 4. “Lord, I Would Follow Thee,” Hymns, no. 220. the game. And in the process, as you “lose 5. Mosiah 18:9. Don’t wait for a particular calling [your] life” in the service of others,13 6. Doctrine and Covenants 81:5. before you become fully engaged in you will grow and develop until you 7. Jacob 2:8. 8. Romans 8:16–17. building the kingdom of God. As a reach “the measure of the stature of 9. Doctrine and Covenants 84:33, 35, 37–38. priesthood holder, you are already the fulness of Christ.” 14 Then you will 10. 1 Corinthians 1:27. called to the work. Study the word of be prepared to inherit, with Christ, 11. See Romans 8:31. 12. Malachi 3:10. God daily, pray to Heavenly Father everything your Father has. 13. Matthew 16:25. every day, internalize the principles 14. Ephesians 4:13. of the restored gospel, give thanks to You Are Important to God God, and ask for His guidance. Then My dear brethren, my dear friends, live what you learn, first in your family you are important. You are loved. You Short Video Highlight but also in all situations of your life. are needed. This work is true. The Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13 Conf10 to In the great Composer’s sym- priesthood you are privileged to bear watch or share a short video phony, you have your own particular is indeed of God. clip of this message.

May 2013 61 By President Henry B. Eyring boy was their first baptism into The First Counselor in the First Presidency Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. By March of this year he had been a member for four months. He had been ordained a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood and so could We Are One baptize the second convert to the Church. He was the first priesthood I pray that wherever we are and whatever duties we have in pioneer to gather other children of Heavenly Father with him to establish the priesthood of God, we will be united in the cause to bring the Church in a city of approximately the gospel to all the world. 130,000 people. On Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013, the Church membership there had grown to the huge number of six he Lord made it clear at the very one boy who now holds the office of members in that city. He was the start of this last dispensation that priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. He only local member who attended the Twe were to take the gospel to all is 16 years old. He lives in a country meeting that Sunday. His knee had the world. What He said to the few where the missionaries first arrived been injured the day before, but he priesthood holders in 1831 He says just a year ago. They were assigned was determined to be there. He had to the many now. Whatever our age, to two cities but not to the city where prayed that he would be able to walk capacity, Church calling, or location, the boy lives. to church. And so he was there. He we are as one called to the work to When he was very young, his shared the sacrament with four young help Him in His harvest of souls until parents brought him to Utah for safety. elders and a missionary couple—the He comes again. He said to those first The family was taught and baptized total congregation. laborers in the vineyard: by the missionaries. He was not bap- That story does not seem remark- “And again, I say unto you, I give tized into the Church because he was able unless you recognize in it the unto you a commandment, that every not yet eight years of age. pattern of God’s hand in building His man, both elder, priest, teacher, and His parents were killed in an kingdom. I have seen it many times. also member, go to with his might, accident. So his grandmother had him I saw it in New Mexico as a young with the labor of his hands, to prepare return to his home, across the ocean, man. For generations the prophets and accomplish the things which I back to the city where he had been have told us that we must help the have commanded. born. missionaries find and teach the honest “And let your preaching be He was walking on the street in in heart and then love those who the warning voice, every man to March just a year ago when he felt that come into the kingdom. his neighbor, in mildness and in he should speak to a woman he did I have seen for myself what faithful meekness. not know. He spoke with her in the priesthood leaders and members can “And go ye out from among the English he still remembered. She was do. In 1955 I became an officer in the wicked. Save yourselves. Be ye clean a nurse sent by the mission president United States Air Force. My bishop at that bear the vessels of the Lord.” 1 to his city to look for housing and home gave me a blessing just before Now, you members of the Aaronic medical care for the missionaries who I left for my first station, which was in Priesthood can see that the Lord’s would be assigned there soon. He and Albuquerque, New Mexico. command includes you. Since you she became friends as they talked. In his blessing he said that my know that the Lord always prepares When she got back to the mission time in the air force would be mis- a way to keep His commandments, headquarters, she told the missionar- sionary service. I arrived in church on you can expect that He will do that for ies about him. my first Sunday at the Albuquerque each of you. The first two elders arrived in First Branch. A man walked up to Let me tell you of how He did it for September of 2012. The orphan me, introduced himself as the district 62 president, and told me that he was So, for the two years I was there, I member to be a missionary. going to call me to serve as a district worked in my office. On most eve- On the last Sunday before I left missionary. nings and every weekend, I taught the Albuquerque, the first stake was I told him that I would be there for gospel of Jesus Christ to people the organized in that city. There is now a training for only a few weeks and then members brought to us. sacred temple there, a house of the I would be assigned somewhere else My companions and I averaged Lord, in a city where we once met in a in the world. He said, “I don’t know more than 40 hours a month in our single chapel with Saints who brought about that, but we are to call you to missionary service without once friends to us to be taught and to feel serve.” In the middle of my military having to knock on doors to find the witness of the Spirit. Those friends training, by what appeared to be someone to teach. The members filled felt a welcoming home in the Lord’s chance, I was chosen from hundreds our plates so full that we often taught true Church. of officers being trained to take the two families in an evening. I saw for I saw it next in New England place in headquarters of an officer myself the power and the blessing in as I went to school. I was called as who had died suddenly. the repeated call of prophets for every the counselor to a great district pres- ident who had been brought from disinterest in the Church to a man of great spiritual power. His home teacher loved him enough to ignore his cigar and see what God could see in him. The district president and I drove over the hills and along the shores to visit tiny branches that dotted Massachusetts and Rhode Island to build and bless the kingdom of God. In the years I served with that great leader, we watched people draw friends to the Church by their example and by their invitation to listen to the missionaries. To me the growth of those branches seemed slow and faltering. But on the Sunday I left, five years later, two Apostles came to organize our district into a stake in the Longfellow Park chapel in Cambridge. Years later I returned to conduct a stake conference there. The stake president took me to see a rocky hill in Belmont. He told me it would be a perfect place for a temple of God. One stands there now. When I gaze on it, I remember the humble mem- bers I sat with in tiny branches, the neighbors they invited, and the mis- sionaries who were teaching them. There is a new deacon in this meeting here tonight. I was with him

May 2013 63 Los Angeles, California, USA on the same Easter Sunday that the enough appointments to teach that are to fulfill our priesthood mandate priest whom I spoke of previously they take Aaronic Priesthood holders of missionary work. walked to his one-member meeting. as companions. In the 1959 April general con- The deacon beamed as his father The ward mission plan includes the ference, President David O. McKay said that he would be in this priest- goals of the quorums to invite those taught this principle, as have the hood meeting with him tonight. This they know to meet with the mis- prophets since his day, includ- father was a great missionary in the sionaries. Even the deacons quorum ing President Thomas S. Monson. same mission where his father had presidency is invited to set goals and President McKay related in his closing been the president. I have seen the plan for their quorum members to comments that in 1923 in the British 1937 Missionary Handbook of his help bring those they know into the Mission, there was a general instruc- great-grandfather. His heritage in kingdom of God. tion sent out to the members of the bringing people to the Church Now, the deacon in the strong ward Church. They were told not to spend runs deep. and the new priest—the convert—in money on advertising to combat the So I spoke with that deacon’s the tiny member group may seem to bad feelings of the people against bishop to learn what experiences have little in common with each other the Church. President McKay said the the boy might expect in meeting or with you. And you may not see decision was: “Throw the responsibil- the charge of the priesthood to much similarity with your experiences ity upon every member of the Church work in the gathering of souls for in building up the Church with what I that in the coming year of 1923 every the Lord. The bishop was enthusi- saw as miracles in New Mexico and in member will be a missionary. Every astic as he described how the ward New England. member a missionary! You may bring mission leader tracked the progress But there is one way in which we your mother into the Church, or it of investigators. He gets that infor- are one in our charge in the priest- may be your father; perhaps your mation from regular contact with the hood. We sanctify ourselves and fulfill fellow companion in the workshop. missionaries. our individual duties to the command- Somebody will hear the good message The bishop and his ward council ment to take the gospel to all of our of the truth through you.” discuss every progressing investigator. Heavenly Father’s children. And President McKay continued: They decide what they can do for We share experiences in the way in “And that is the message today. Every each person and their families to help which the Lord builds His kingdom on member —a million and a half—a them become friends before baptism, earth. In His Church, with all the won- missionary! ” 2 to include them in activities, and to derful tools and organization we have When it was announced in 2002 nurture those who are baptized. He been given, there is still a fundamental that missionary work would become said the missionaries on occasion have truth taught by prophets of how we the responsibility of the bishops, I 64 marveled. I’d been one. It seemed to him that it was not so much the duty Whether it is in the large ward me they were already carrying a load anyone performed but the way they where the new deacon will perform close to their limits in ministering to all became one in their enthusiasm his duty to share the gospel and build the members and directing the organi- to bring people into the community up the kingdom or in the tiny group zations in the ward. of Saints that had brought them such far away where the new priest serves, One bishop I knew saw it not as happiness. they will be one in purpose. The an added duty but as an opportunity For some it was that and more. Like deacon will be inspired by the love of to draw the ward together in a great the sons of Mosiah, they had felt the God to reach out to a friend not yet a cause where every member became a effects of sin in their own lives and the member. He will include his friend in missionary. He called a ward mission marvelous healing of the Atonement some service or activity in the Church leader. He met with the missionaries within the Church of God. Out of love and then invite him and his family himself every Saturday to learn about and gratitude for the Savior’s gift to to be taught by the missionaries. To their work, to encourage them, and them, they wanted to help everyone those who are baptized, he will be the to learn about the progress of their they could to escape the sadness of friend they will need. investigators. The ward council found sin, feel the joy of forgiveness, and The priest will invite others to join ways for organizations and quorums to gather with them to safety in the king- with him in the tiny group of Saints use service experiences as missionary dom of God. where he has felt the love of God and preparation.­ And as a judge in Israel, he It was the love of God and the love the blessed peace of the Atonement. helped young people feel the blessings for their friends and neighbors that If he continues faithful in his of the Atonement to keep them pure. unified them to serve the people. They priesthood duty, he will see the Recently I asked how he explained desired to take the gospel to everyone group become a branch, and then a the surge of convert baptisms in his in their part of the world. And they stake of Zion will come to his city. ward and the increase in the number prepared their children to be worthy There will be a ward with a caring of young people ready and eager to to be called by the Lord to teach, to bishop. It could be one of his sons take the gospel of Jesus Christ out testify, and to serve in other parts of or grandsons who will someday take to the world. He said it seemed to His vineyard. a servant of God to a nearby hill and say, “This would be a wonderful place for a temple.” I pray that wherever we are and whatever duties we have in the priesthood of God, we will be united in the cause to bring the gospel to all the world and that we will encour- age people we love to be cleansed from sin and to be happy with us in the kingdom of God. In the name of Jesus Christ, whose Church this is, amen. ◼

NOTES 1. Doctrine and Covenants 38:40–42. 2. David O. McKay, in Conference Report, Apr. 1959, 122.

Short Video Highlight Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf11 to watch or share a short video clip of this message.

May 2013 65 sacrifice and fervent prayer. As a By President Thomas S. Monson result, dedicated missionary service returns a dividend of eternal joy which extends throughout mortality and into eternity. The challenge is to be more prof- Come, All Ye Sons itable servants in the Lord’s vineyard. This applies to all of us, whatever our age, and not alone to those who are of God preparing to serve as full-time mission­ aries, for to each of us comes the man- date to share the gospel of Christ. May each one of us search the scriptures with diligence, May I suggest a formula that will plan his life with purpose, teach the truth with testimony, ensure our success: first,search the and serve the Lord with love. scriptures with diligence; second, plan your life with purpose (and, I might add, plan your life regardless of your age); third, teach the truth wice each year this magnificent “Teaching them to observe all with testimony; and fourth, serve Conference Center seems to say to things whatsoever I have commanded the Lord with love. us, with its persuasive voice, “Come, you: and, lo, I am with you alway, Let us consider each of the four T 2 all ye sons of God who have received even unto the end of the world.” parts of the formula. the priesthood.” 1 There is a characteristic This divine command, coupled First, search the scriptures with spirit which pervades the general priest- with its glorious promise, is our diligence. hood meeting of the Church. watchword today as it was in the The scriptures testify of God and Tonight there are many thousands meridian of time. Missionary work is contain the words of eternal life. of our number throughout the world an identifying feature of The Church They become the foundation of our who are serving the Lord as His of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. message. missionaries. As I mentioned in my Always has it been; ever shall it be. As The emphasis of the Church curric- message this morning, we currently the Prophet Joseph Smith declared, ula is the holy scriptures, programmed have over 65,000 missionaries in the “After all that has been said, the greatest and coordinated through the cor- field, with thousands more who are and most important duty is to preach relation effort. We are encouraged, waiting to enter the missionary train- the Gospel.” 3 as well, to study the scriptures each ing center or whose applications are Within two short years, all of the day both individually and with our currently being processed. We love full-time missionaries currently serving families. and commend those who are willing in this royal army of God will have Let me provide but one reference and anxious to serve. concluded their labors and will have which has immediate application to The holy scriptures contain no returned to their homes and loved our lives. In the Book of Mormon, proclamation more relevant, no ones. For the elders, their replace- the 17th chapter of Alma, we read responsibility more binding, no ments are found tonight in the ranks the account of Alma’s joy as he once instruction more direct than the of the Aaronic Priesthood of the more saw the sons of Mosiah and injunction given by the resurrected Church. Young men, are you ready to noted their steadfastness in the cause Lord as He appeared in Galilee to the respond? Are you willing to work? Are of truth. The record tells us, “They had eleven disciples. Said He: you prepared to serve? waxed strong in the knowledge of the “Go ye therefore, and teach all At best, missionary work neces- truth; for they were men of a sound nations, baptizing them in the name of sitates drastic adjustment to one’s understanding and they had searched the Father, and of the Son, and of the pattern of living. It requires long the scriptures diligently, that they Holy Ghost: hours and great devotion, selfless might know the word of God. 66 “But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.” 4 Brethren, search the scriptures with diligence. Second in our formula: plan your life with purpose. Perhaps no generation of youth has faced such far-reaching decisions as the youth of today. Provision must be made for school, mission, and mar- riage. For some, military service will be included. Preparation for a mission begins early. In addition to spiritual prepa- ration, a wise parent will provide the means whereby a young son might commence his personal missionary fund. He may well be encouraged as the years go by to study a foreign language so that, if necessary, his language skills could be utilized. Eventually there comes that glori- ous day when the bishop and stake president invite the young man in for a visit. Worthiness is ascertained; a missionary recommendation is completed. their faith encourage you, their prayers Do not overlook your privilege to During no other time does the uphold you. A mission is a family be missionaries while you are pur- entire family so anxiously watch and affair. Though the expanse of conti- suing your formal education. Your wait for the mailman and the letter nents or oceans may separate, hearts example as a Latter-day Saint will which contains the return address are as one. be observed, weighed, and ofttimes 47 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, Brethren, as you plan with pur- emulated. Utah. The letter arrives; the suspense pose your lives, remember that Brethren, whatever your age, what- is overwhelming; the call is read. your missionary opportunities are ever your circumstance, I admonish Often the assigned field of labor is far not restricted to the period of a you to plan your life with purpose. away from home. Regardless of the formal call. For those of you who Now to the third point in our location, however, the response of the serve in the military, such time can formula: teach the truth with prepared and obedient missionary is and should be profitable. Each year testimony. the same: “I will serve.” our young men in uniform bring Obey the counsel of the Apostle Preparations for departure begin. many souls into the kingdom of Peter, who urged, “Be ready always Young men, I hope you appreciate God by honoring their priesthood, to give an answer to every man that the sacrifices which your parents so living the commandments of God, asketh you a reason of the hope that willingly make in order for you to and teaching to others the Lord’s is in you.” 5 Lift up your voices and tes- serve. Their labors will sustain you, divine word. tify to the true nature of the Godhead.

May 2013 67 Declare your witness concerning the we didn’t respond to Mr. Pollard. He coupled with their testimonies, Book of Mormon. Convey the glorious said we didn’t believe Joseph Smith changed my life and the lives of my and beautiful truths contained in the was a true prophet. Let’s return and family.” Brethren, teach the truth plan of salvation. bear our testimonies to him.” At first with testimony. When I served as a mission presi­ the more experienced missionary The final point in our formula is to dent in Canada more than 50 years hesitated but finally agreed to accom- serve the Lord with love. There is ago, one young missionary who came pany his companion. Fear struck their no substitute for love. Successful mis- from a small, rural community mar- hearts as they approached the door sionaries love their companions, their veled at the size of Toronto. He was from which they had just been ejected. mission leaders, and the precious per- short in stature but tall in testimony. They knocked, confronted Mr. Pollard, sons whom they teach. In the fourth Not long after his arrival, together spent an agonizing moment, and section of the Doctrine and Covenants, with his companion, he called at the then with power borne of the Spirit, the Lord established the qualifications home of Elmer Pollard in Oshawa, our inexperienced missionary spoke: for the labors of the ministry. Let us Ontario, Canada. Feeling sorry for the “Mr. Pollard, you said we didn’t really consider but a few verses: young men who, during a blinding believe Joseph Smith was a prophet of “O ye that embark in the service blizzard, were going house to house, God. I testify to you that Joseph was a of God, see that ye serve him with all Mr. Pollard invited the missionaries prophet. He did translate the Book of your heart, might, mind and strength, into his home. They presented to him Mormon. He saw God the Father and that ye may stand blameless before their message. He did not catch the Jesus the Son. I know it.” God at the last day. . . . spirit. In due time he asked that they Some time later, Mr. Pollard, now “And faith, hope, charity and love, leave and not return. His last words Brother Pollard, stood in a priest- with an eye single to the glory of God, to the elders as they departed his hood meeting and declared, “That qualify him for the work. front porch were spoken in derision: night I could not sleep. Resounding “Remember faith, virtue, knowl- “You can’t tell me you actually believe in my ears I heard the words ‘Joseph edge, temperance, patience, brotherly Joseph Smith was a prophet of God!” Smith was a prophet of God. I know kindness, godliness, charity, humility, The door was shut. The elders it. I know it. I know it.’ The next day diligence.” 6 walked down the path. Our country I telephoned the missionaries and Well might each of you within the boy spoke to his companion: “Elder, asked them to return. Their message, sound of my voice ask himself the 68 question “Today, have I increased in parents, and on occasion, write to sacred words: “Frederick Charles faith, in virtue, in knowledge, in godli- Dad personally, and let him know Sudbury, having been commissioned ness, in love?” how much you love him, and tell of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the Through your dedicated devotion him why you’re grateful to be his name of the Father, and of the Son, at home or abroad, those souls whom son.” He thanked me and, with his and of the Holy Ghost.” you help to save may well be those mother, departed the office. Love had won its victory. Serve the whom you love the most. I was not to see Craig’s mother Lord with love. Many years ago dear friends of for some 18 months, when she came Brethren, may each one of us mine, Craig Sudbury and his mother, to my office and, in sentences punc- search the scriptures with dili- Pearl, came to my office prior to tuated by tears, said to me, “It has gence, plan his life with purpose, Craig’s departure for the Australia been almost two years since Craig left teach the truth with testimony, and Melbourne Mission. Fred Sudbury, for his mission. He has never failed serve the Lord with love. Craig’s father, was noticeably absent. in writing a letter to us each week. The perfect Shepherd of our souls, Twenty-five years earlier, Craig’s Recently, my husband, Fred, stood for the missionary who redeemed man- mother had married Fred, who did the first time in a testimony meet- kind, gave us His divine assurance: not share her love for the Church and, ing and surprised me and shocked “If it so be that you should labor indeed, was not a member. everyone who was there by announc- all your days in crying repentance Craig confided to me his deep ing that he had made the decision to unto this people, and bring, save it be and abiding love for his parents and become a member of the Church. He one soul unto me, how great shall be his hope that somehow, in some indicated that he and I would go to your joy with him in the kingdom of way, his father would be touched by Australia to meet Craig at the conclu- my Father! the Spirit and open his heart to the sion of his mission so that Fred could “And now, if your joy will be great gospel of Jesus Christ. I prayed for be Craig’s final baptism as a full-time with one soul that you have brought inspiration concerning how such a missionary.” unto me into the kingdom of my Father, desire might be fulfilled. The inspi- No missionary stood so tall as how great will be your joy if you should ration came, and I said to Craig, did Craig Sudbury when, in far-off bring many souls unto me!” 7 “Serve the Lord with all your heart. Australia, he helped his father into Of Him who spoke these words I Be obedient to your sacred calling. water waist-deep and, raising his right declare my witness: He is the Son of Each week write a letter to your arm to the square, repeated those God, our Redeemer, and our Savior. I pray that we may ever respond to His gentle invitation, “Follow thou me.” 8 In His holy name—even the name of Jesus Christ the Lord—amen. ◼

NOTES 1. “Come, All Ye Sons of God,” Hymns, no. 322. 2. Matthew 28:19–20. 3. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 330. 4. Alma 17:2–3. 5. 1 Peter 3:15. 6. Doctrine and Covenants 4:2, 5–6. 7. Doctrine and Covenants 18:15–16. 8. John 21:22.

Short Video Highlight Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf12 to watch or share a short video clip of this message.

May 2013 69 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION | April 7, 2013

Latter-day Saints. The joy and hope of the restored gospel penetrated her By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf heart, and she accepted the invita- Second Counselor in the First Presidency tion to be baptized. For the first time, light entered her life, and she saw a bright path before her. She left the darkness of her world and decided to attend school a great distance The Hope away from her abuser. At last she felt liberated from an environment of darkness and evil—free to enjoy the of God’s Light Savior’s sweet peace and miraculous healing. However, years later, after her As we seek to increase our love for God and strive to love our abuser had died, Jane was again neighbor, the light of the gospel will surround and uplift us. troubled by the horrible events of her youth. Profound sadness and anger threatened to destroy the wonderful light she had found in the gospel. She Entrance to Enlightenment His light—He promises to illuminate realized that if she allowed that dark- I have a cherished painting in the way before us and show us the ness to consume her, her tormentor my office that is titled Entrance to way out of darkness. would have a final victory. Enlightenment. It was created by a She sought counseling and med- friend of mine, the Danish artist Johan A Room Filled with Darkness ical help and began to realize that, Benthin, who was the first stake presi- I’d like to tell you about a woman for her, the best path for healing was dent in Copenhagen, Denmark. who grew up in a room filled with to understand and accept that dark- The painting shows a dark room darkness—I’ll call her Jane. ness exists—but not to dwell there. with an open door from which light From the time Jane was three years For, as she now knew, light also is shining. It is interesting to me that old, she was repeatedly beaten, belit- exists—and that is where she chose the light coming through the door tled, and abused. She was threatened to dwell. does not illuminate the entire room— and mocked. She awoke each morn- Given her dark past, Jane could only the space immediately in front ing not knowing if she would survive easily have become vindictive, ven- of the door. until the next day. The people who omous, or violent. But she didn’t. To me, the darkness and light in should have protected her were those She resisted the temptation to spread this painting are a metaphor for life. who tortured her or allowed the abuse the darkness, refusing to lash out It is part of our condition as mortal to continue. in anger, hurt, or cynicism. Instead, beings to sometimes feel as though In order to protect herself, Jane she held fast to the hope that with we are surrounded by darkness. We learned to stop feeling. She had no God’s help she could be healed. She might have lost a loved one; a child hope of rescue, so she hardened her- chose to radiate light and devote her might have strayed; we might have self to the horror of her reality. There life to helping others. This decision received a troubling medical diagno- was no light in her world, so she enabled her to leave the past behind sis; we might have employment chal- became resigned to the darkness. With and to step into a glorious, bright lenges and be burdened by doubts a numbness that can come only from future. or fears; or we might feel alone or constant and unrelenting contact with She became a schoolteacher, and unloved. evil, she accepted the fact that any today, decades later, her love has influ- But even though we may feel lost moment might be her last. enced the lives of hundreds of chil- in the midst of our current circum- Then, at age 18, Jane discov- dren, helping them to know that they stances, God promises the hope of ered The Church of Jesus Christ of have worth, that they are important. 70

General Authorities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY

Henry B. Eyring Thomas S. Monson Dieter F. Uchtdorf First Counselor President Second Counselor

THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES

Boyd K. Packer L. Tom Perry Russell M. Nelson Dallin H. Oaks M. Russell Ballard Richard G. Scott

Robert D. Hales Jeffrey R. Holland David A. Bednar Quentin L. Cook D. Todd Christofferson Neil L. Andersen

THE PRESIDENCY OF THE SEVENTY

Ronald A. Rasband L. Whitney Clayton Donald L. Hallstrom Tad R. Callister Richard J. Maynes Craig C. Christensen Ulisses Soares THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY (in alphabetical order) (in alphabetical order)

Marcos A. Aidukaitis Jose L. Alonso Carlos H. Amado Ian S. Ardern Mervyn B. Arnold David S. Baxter Shayne M. Bowen Craig A. Cardon Yoon Hwan Choi Don R. Clarke Wilford W. Andersen Koichi Aoyagi Randall K. Bennett Bruce A. Carlson

Carl B. Cook Lawrence E. Corbridge Claudio R. M. Costa LeGrand R. Curtis Jr. Benjamín De Hoyos John B. Dickson Edward Dube Kevin R. Duncan Larry J. Echo Hawk Stanley G. Ellis J. Devn Cornish Timothy J. Dyches Bradley D. Foster Randy D. Funk

David F. Evans Enrique R. Falabella Eduardo Gavarret Robert C. Gay Carlos A. Godoy Christoffel Golden Jr. Gerrit W. Gong Walter F. González C. Scott Grow James J. Hamula O. Vincent Haleck Kevin S. Hamilton Larry R. Lawrence Per G. Malm

Daniel L. Johnson Paul V. Johnson Patrick Kearon Paul E. Koelliker Erich W. Kopischke Marcus B. Nash S. Gifford Nielsen Brent H. Nielson Allan F. Packer Kevin W. Pearson James B. Martino Jairo Mazzagardi Adrián Ochoa Kent F. Richards

Anthony D. Perkins Paul B. Pieper Rafael E. Pino Bruce D. Porter Dale G. Renlund Michael T. Ringwood Lynn G. Robbins Joseph W. Sitati Steven E. Snow Michael John U. Teh Gregory A. Schwitzer Terence M. Vinson Kent D. Watson Larry Y. Wilson

THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC

José A. Teixeira Juan A. Uceda Arnulfo Valenzuela Francisco J. Viñas W. Christopher Waddell William R. Walker F. Michael Watson Scott D. Whiting Kazuhiko Yamashita Jorge F. Zeballos

Gérald Caussé Gary E. Stevenson Dean M. Davies First Counselor Presiding Bishop Second Counselor

Claudio D. Zivic W. Craig Zwick

April 2 013 Latter-day Saints through- out the world gather for the 183rd Annual General Conference. Pictured clockwise from top left are Church members and missionaries in Guayaquil, Ecuador; Pretoria, South Africa; Santiago, Chile; Copenhagen, Denmark; New York City, New York, USA; Brasília, Brazil; and Edinburgh, Scotland. She has become a tireless defender of the weak, the victimized, and the discouraged. She builds, strengthens, and inspires everyone around her. Jane learned that healing comes when we move away from the dark- ness and walk toward the hope of a brighter light. It was in the practical application of faith, hope, and charity that she not only transformed her own life but forever blessed the lives of many, many others.

Light Cleaveth unto Light There may be some among you who feel darkness encroaching upon you. You may feel burdened by worry, fear, or doubt. To you and to all of us, I repeat a wonderful and certain truth: God’s light is real. It is available to all! It gives life to all things.1 It has the power to soften the sting of the So how do we open our eyes to the explain to your Heavenly Father what deepest wound. It can be a healing hope of God’s light? you are feeling. Acknowledge your balm for the loneliness and sickness First, start where you are. shortcomings. Pour out your heart and of our souls. In the furrows of despair, Isn’t it wonderful to know that we express your gratitude. Let Him know it can plant the seeds of a brighter don’t have to be perfect to experience of the trials you are facing. Plead with hope. It can enlighten the deepest the blessings and gifts of our Heavenly Him in Christ’s name for strength and valleys of sorrow. It can illuminate the Father? We don’t have to wait to cross support. Ask that your ears may be path before us and lead us through the finish line to receive God’s bless- opened, that you may hear His voice. the darkest night into the promise of ings. In fact, the heavens begin to part Ask that your eyes may be opened, a new dawn. and the blessings of heaven begin to that you may see His light. This is “the Spirit of Jesus Christ,” distill upon us with the very first steps Third, walk in the light. which gives “light to every man that we take toward the light. Your Heavenly Father knows that cometh into the world.” 2 The perfect place to begin is you will make mistakes. He knows Nevertheless, spiritual light rarely exactly where you are right now. It that you will stumble—perhaps many comes to those who merely sit in doesn’t matter how unqualified you times. This saddens Him, but He loves darkness waiting for someone to flip a may think you are or how far behind you. He does not wish to break your switch. It takes an act of faith to open others you may feel. The very moment spirit. On the contrary, He desires that our eyes to the Light of Christ. Spiritual you begin to seek your Heavenly you rise up and become the person light cannot be discerned by carnal Father, in that moment, the hope you were designed to be. eyes. Jesus Christ Himself taught, “I am of His light will begin to awaken, To that end, He sent His Son to this the light which shineth in darkness, enliven, and ennoble your soul.5 The earth to illuminate the way and show and the darkness comprehendeth it darkness may not dissipate all at once, us how to safely cross the stumbling not.” 3 For “the natural man receiveth but as surely as night always gives blocks placed in our path. He has not the things of the Spirit of God: for way to dawn, the light will come. given us the gospel, which teaches they are foolishness unto him: neither Second, turn your heart toward the way of the disciple. It teaches us can he know them, because they are the Lord. the things we must know, do, and spiritually discerned.” 4 Lift up your soul in prayer and be to walk in His light, following in

May 2013 75 people on the face of the planet. Even though these dear Saints were sur- rounded by difficulties and trials, they were filled with light! The meeting began, and I started to speak. But soon the power went out in the building, and we were left in complete darkness. For a while I could hardly see any- one in the congregation, but I could see and feel the brilliant and beautiful smiles of our Saints. Oh, how I loved being with these wonderful people! The darkness in the chapel continued, and so I sat next to my wife and waited for the power to be restored. As we waited, something remarkable happened. A few voices began singing one of the hymns of the Restoration. And then others joined in. And then more. the footsteps of His Beloved Son, our We were in West Africa, a beautiful Soon, a sweet and overwhelming cho- Savior. part of the world where the Church is rus of voices filled the chapel. growing and the Latter-day Saints are These members of the Church did Light Overcomes Darkness delightful. However, West Africa also not need hymnbooks; they knew Yes, we will make mistakes. has many challenges. In particular, I every word of every hymn they sang. Yes, we will falter. was sorrowed by the poverty that I And they sang one song after another But as we seek to increase our love saw. In the cities there is high unem- with an energy and spirit that touched for God and strive to love our neigh- ployment, and families often struggle my soul. bor, the light of the gospel will sur- to provide for their daily needs and for Eventually, the lights sparked back round and uplift us. The darkness will their safety. It broke my heart to know on and bathed the room with light. surely fade, because it cannot exist in that many of our precious members Harriet and I looked at each other, our the presence of light. As we draw near of the Church live in such deprivation. cheeks wet with tears. to God, He will draw near to us.6 And But I also learned that these fine mem- In the midst of great darkness, day by day, the hope of God’s light will bers help each other to lighten their these beautiful, wonderful Saints had grow within us, “brighter and brighter heavy burdens. filled this Church building and our until the perfect day.” 7 We eventually arrived at one of souls with light. To all who feel they walk in dark- our meetinghouses near a large city. It was a profoundly moving moment ness, I invite you to rely on this certain But instead of finding a people bur- for us—one Harriet and I will never promise spoken by the Savior of man- dened and absorbed by darkness, we forget. kind: “I am the light of the world: he that discovered a joyful people who were followeth me shall not walk in darkness, radiating with light! The happiness Come to the Light but shall have the light of life.” 8 they felt for the gospel was contagious Yes, from time to time our lives and lifted our spirits. The love they may seem to be touched by, or even A Light in Africa expressed for us was humbling. Their wrapped in, darkness. Sometimes Some years ago my wife, Harriet, smiles were genuine and infectious. the night that surrounds us will and I had a memorable experience in I remember wondering at the time appear oppressive, disheartening, which we saw this promise fulfilled. if there could possibly be a happier and frightening. 76 My heart grieves for the many sor- By Elder Neil L. Andersen rows some of you face, for the painful Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles loneliness and wearisome fears you may be experiencing. Nevertheless, I bear witness that our living hope is in Christ Jesus! He is the true, pure, and powerful entrance It’s a Miracle to divine enlightenment. I testify that with Christ, darkness If you’re not a full-time missionary with a missionary badge cannot succeed. Darkness will not gain victory over the light of Christ. pinned on your coat, now is the time to paint one on your I bear witness that darkness cannot heart—painted, as Paul said, “not with ink, but with the Spirit stand before the brilliant light of the of the living God.” Son of the living God! I invite each of you to open your heart to Him. Seek Him through study and prayer. Come to His Church, even he mortal life of Jesus Christ outpouring that day, and 3,000 souls The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- was filled with miracles: a virgin were baptized. As Jesus promised, day Saints. Learn of Him and of His Tmother, a new star, angels appear- signs and miracles were following the gospel, participate actively, help each ing to shepherds, the blind seeing, the faith of the believers. other, and joyfully serve our God. lame walking, angels in Gethsemane As the Church of Jesus Christ was Brothers and sisters, even after the and at the tomb, and the greatest mira- restored to the earth 183 years ago, darkest night, the Savior of the world cle of all—His glorious Resurrection. the Lord’s charge to His small band will lead you to a gradual, sweet, and Can you imagine the scene of the of disciples echoed His words spo- bright dawn that will assuredly rise eleven Apostles on the mountain near ken centuries before: “The voice of within you. Galilee when the risen Lord came to warning shall be unto all people.” 5 As you walk toward the hope of them and said: “Go ye therefore, and “For, verily, the sound must go forth God’s light, you will discover the teach all nations, baptizing them in the . . . into all the world, and unto the compassion, love, and goodness of name of the Father, and of the Son, uttermost parts of the earth.” 6 a loving Heavenly Father, “in [whom and of the Holy Ghost”? 1 “Go ye into “All people”? “All the world”? “The there] is no darkness at all.” 9 Of this all the world, and preach the gospel to uttermost parts of the earth”? Was it I testify in the sacred name of Jesus every creature.” 2 possible? Christ, amen. ◼ “All nations”? “All the world”? “Every The Savior reassured His Latter-day creature”? Was it possible? Although Saints,7 but could they foresee the NOTES 1. See Doctrine and Covenants 88:11–13. Jesus reassured them, they must have reach and destiny of this marvelous 2. Doctrine and Covenants 84:45–46. wondered if miracles really would work? They must have wondered if 3. Doctrine and Covenants 6:21. accompany them in spreading the miracles really would accompany 4. 1 Corinthians 2:14. 3 5. See Alma 34:31. gospel. them in spreading the gospel. 6. See James 4:8; Doctrine and Covenants Faith overcame doubt, and Peter Again, faith overcame doubt, and 88:63. lifted his voice, saying: thousands were baptized. In England, 7. Doctrine and Covenants 50:24. 8. John 8:12. “All ye that dwell at Jerusalem, . . . Elder Wilford Woodruff found an 9. 1 John 1:5. hearken to my words: . . . entire community awaiting his arrival. “. . . Jesus of Nazareth, . . . [whom] The Spirit of the Lord fell upon them, ye have taken, and by wicked hands and he baptized 45 preachers and Short Video Highlight have crucified and slain: . . . several hundred members during his Scan this QR code or visit “This Jesus . . . God [hath] raised first month at Benbow farm.8 lds.org/go/Apr13Conf13 to 4 watch or share a short video up, [and] we all are witnesses.” Our day is no different. When clip of this message. There was an undeniable spiritual Elder David A. Bednar and I were

May 2013 77 missionaries approximately 40 years said: “We take most seriously the Savior’s an instrument in His hands. All of us ago (and I can assure you that we are mandate . . . , ‘Go ye therefore, and have a contribution to make to this not the oldest of the returned mission- teach all nations, baptizing them in the miracle. aries sitting in the red chairs), there name of the Father, and of the Son, and Every righteous member of the were 16,000 missionaries. As President of the Holy Ghost.’” 11 “This . . . cause . . . Church has thought about how to Thomas S. Monson reported yesterday, will continue to go forth, changing and share the gospel. Some share the we now have 65,000—more than ever blessing lives. . . . No force in the entire gospel naturally, and we can learn a before. There were then 562 stakes. world can stop the work of God.” 12 lot from them.14 Some struggle and Today there are more than 3,000. At We are witnessing the miracles of wonder how to do better, wishing that time, our wards and branches the Lord as His gospel is spreading that guilty feeling we sometimes feel were in 59 countries. Today we have across the world. would find somewhere else to go. congregations in 189 of the 224 nations Brothers and sisters, as surely as the Our desire to share the gospel takes and territories of the world. We are few Lord has inspired more missionaries to all of us to our knees, and it should, in number, just as Nephi foretold.9 But serve, He is also awakening the minds because we need the Lord’s help. at the same time, you and I are eye­ and opening the hearts of more good President Monson has asked that we witnesses of Daniel’s prophetic words: and honest people to receive His pray for “those areas where our influ- the “stone . . . cut . . . without hands . . . missionaries. You already know them ence is limited and where we are not [is filling] the whole earth.” 10 or will know them. They are in your allowed to share the gospel freely.” 15 As Our day is a remarkable time of family and live in your neighborhood. we earnestly and unitedly petition our miracles. Six months ago as President They walk past you on the street, sit Father in Heaven, the Lord will con- Monson announced the age change by you in school, and connect with tinue to open important doors for us. for young men and young women you online. You too are an important We also pray for our own opportu- desiring to serve missions, there was part of this unfolding miracle. nities to share the gospel. The Apostle an undeniable spiritual outpouring. If you’re not a full-time mission- Peter said, “Be ready always to give an Faith overcame doubt, and young ary with a missionary badge pinned answer to every man that asketh . . . a men and women moved forward. on your coat, now is the time to reason [for] the hope that is in you.” 16 The Thursday following conference, paint one on your heart—painted, With the confusion17 and commo- I was assigned to recommend mis- as Paul said, “not with ink, but with tion18 of today’s world, it’s not surpris- sionary calls to the First Presidency. the Spirit of the living God.” 13 And ing that fewer people are attending I was amazed to see the applications returned missionaries, find your old their places of worship. Although of 18-year-old men and 19-year-old missionary tag. Don’t wear it, but many want to be closer to God and women who had already adjusted put it where you can see it. The Lord to better understand the purpose of their plans, visited their doctors, been needs you now more than ever to be life, they have unanswered questions. interviewed by their bishops and Many have hearts open to the truth, stake presidents, and submitted their but as the prophet Amos described, missionary applications—all in just “they [are running] to and fro [seeking] five days. Thousands more have now the word of the Lord, and [cannot] find joined them. It’s a miracle. it.” 19 You can help answer their ques- We are grateful for the energizing tions. In your everyday conversations faith of our sisters, the growing number you can add to their faith in Christ.20 of missionaries from countries across The Savior said: “Hold up your the world, and the increasing number light that it may shine unto the world. of couples ready to serve. Fifty-eight Behold I am the light which ye shall new missions have been announced, hold up.” 21 and our bulging missionary training I promise you, as you pray to know center in Provo has amazingly found with whom to speak, names and faces a new companion in Mexico City. will come into your mind. Words to President Thomas S. Monson has speak will be given in the very moment 78 Married on Friday and baptized with their older children on Saturday, these couples from Mozambique chose to follow the Savior Jesus Christ. you need them.22 Opportunities will We respect each person’s choice we plan and pray and help one another. open to you. Faith will overcome doubt, and timing. The Lord said, “Let every Please keep the full-time missionaries in and the Lord will bless you with your man choose for himself.” 26 A person’s your thoughts and prayers. Trust them very own miracles. lack of interest need not diminish our with your family and friends. The Lord The Savior taught us how to share bonds of friendship and love. Whether trusts them and has called them to teach the gospel. I like the story of Andrew, or not the invitation is accepted as and bless those who seek Him. who asked, “Master, where dwellest you invite others to “come and see,” President Paulo Kretly of the thou?” 23 Jesus could have responded you will feel the approval of the Lord Mozambique Maputo Mission shared with the location of where He lived. But and, with that approval, an added this experience: “It is common in instead He said to Andrew, “Come and measure of faith to share your beliefs Mozambique [for] couples to live their see.” 24 I like to think that the Savior was again and again. lives together [without being married saying, “Come and see not only where I For those using the Internet and because] African tradition require[s] an live but how I live. Come and see who mobile phones, there are new ways expensive dowry to marry, a dowry I am. Come and feel the Spirit.” We don’t to invite others to “come and see.” most couples can’t afford.” 29 know everything about that day, but we Let’s make sharing our faith online Members and missionaries thought do know that when Andrew found his more a part of our daily life. LDS.org, and prayed about how to help. brother Simon, he declared, “We have Mormon.org, Facebook, Twitter—all The answer to their prayers was found . . . the Christ.” 25 provide opportunities. that they would emphasize the law To those who show an interest in To share the gospel, young members of chastity and the importance of our conversations, we can follow the in Boston started several blogs.27 Those marriage and eternal families. And Savior’s example by inviting them to who joined the Church began their while helping couples to repent and “come and see.” Some will accept our learning online, followed by discussions legally marry, they would teach of the invitation, and others will not. We all with the missionaries. This experience happiness that only comes through know someone who has been invited also helped the youth have greater faith following Jesus Christ. several times before accepting an in talking about the gospel in person. This is a picture of couples from invitation to “come and see.” Let’s also One of them said, “This isn’t missionary two different cities in Mozambique. think about those who once were with work. This is missionary fun.” 28 Married on Friday, they were baptized us but who now we rarely see, inviting We are all in this together. With with their older children on Saturday.30 them to come back and see once more. fellow ward members and missionaries, Friends and family were invited to

May 2013 79 true principles in the world and treasure them up” (History of the Church, 5:517). “We don’t ask any people to throw away any good they have . . . ; we only ask them to come and get more. What if all the world should embrace this Gospel? They would then see eye to eye, and the blessings of God would be poured out upon the people, which is the desire of my whole soul” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 155). President Gordon B. Hinckley said: “Let me say that we appreciate the truth in all churches and the good which they do. We say to the people, in effect, you bring with you all the good that you have, and then let us see if we can add to it. That is the spirit of this work. That is the essence of our missionary service” (“Excerpts from Recent Addresses of President Gordon B. Hinckley,” Ensign, Aug. 1998, 72; “Words of the Living Prophet,” Liahona, Apr. 1999, 19). “We must be a friendly people. We must recognize the good in all people. We don’t go about tearing down other churches. We preach and teach in a positive and affirmative way. We say to those of other faiths, ‘you bring with you all the good that you have and let us see if we can add to it.’ That is essentially the essence of our great missionary program and it yields “come and see,” and hundreds did NOTES results” (“Messages of Inspiration from “come and see.” 1. Matthew 28:19. President Hinckley,” Church News, Nov. 7, 2. Mark 16:15. 1998, 2; see ldschurchnews.com). Following the baptism, one sister 3. See Matthew 28:20; Mark 16:17–18. 21. 3 Nephi 18:24. said, “We needed to choose whether 4. Acts 2:14, 22–23, 32. 22. See Doctrine and Covenants 84:85; 100:6. to follow the traditions of our fathers 5. Doctrine and Covenants 1:4. 23. John 1:38. 6. Doctrine and Covenants 58:64. 24. John 1:39. or to follow Jesus Christ. We chose to 7. See Doctrine and Covenants 1:5. 25. John 1:41. 31 follow Christ.” 8. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: 26. Doctrine and Covenants 37:4. You may not live in Mozambique, Wilford Woodruff (2004), 89–92. 27. See, for example, youngandmormon.com. 9. See 1 Nephi 14:12. 28. Telephone conversation with Jackson but in your own way, in your own 10. Daniel 2:34–35. Haight on March 22, 2013. culture, you can share the restored 11. Thomas S. Monson, “Welcome to 29. Personal email from President Paulo V. gospel of Jesus Christ. Conference,” Ensign or Liahona, Kretly, March 6, 2013. May 2009, 5. 30. Photos provided by President Paulo V. Pray to your Heavenly Father. This 12. Thomas S. Monson, “As We Gather Once Kretly. The first group was from Maputo; is His sacred work. He will guide Again,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2012, 4. they were married on November 30, 2012, you in what to do. He will open 13. 2 Corinthians 3:3. and baptized on December 1, 2012. The 14. See Clayton M. Christensen, The Power of second group was from Beira; they were doors, remove roadblocks, and help Everyday Missionaries: The What and How married on March 1, 2013, and baptized on you overcome obstacles. The Lord of Sharing the Gospel (2013). March 2, 2013. declared, “The voice of warning shall 15. Thomas S. Monson, “Welcome to Conference,” 31. Personal email from President Paulo V. Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2009, 6. Kretly, March 6, 2013. be unto all people, by the mouths of 16. 1 Peter 3:15. 32. Doctrine and Covenants 1:4–5. my disciples, . . . and none shall stay 17. They observe long-held truths being redefined 33. Doctrine and Covenants 1:11. them.” 32 or ignored; see Doctrine and Covenants 1:16; see also Doctrine and Covenants 132:8. I testify that “the voice of the Lord 18. See Doctrine and Covenants 45:26; 88:91. [shall be] unto the ends of the earth, 19. Amos 8:12. Short Video Highlight that all that will hear may hear.” 33 It’s a 20. The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “Have Scan this QR code or visit the Presbyterians any truth? Yes. Have the lds.org/go/Apr13Conf14 to miracle. It is a miracle. In the name of Baptists, Methodists, etc., any truth? Yes. watch or share a short video Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ . . . We should gather all the good and clip of this message. 80 By Rosemary M. Wixom tumultuous noise, but behold, it was Primary General President a still voice of perfect mildness, as if it had been a whisper, and it did pierce even to the very soul.” 3 We can learn from that voice from heaven. It was not loud, scolding, The Words We Speak or demeaning; it was a still voice of perfect mildness, giving firm direction How we speak to our children and the words we use can while giving hope. How we speak to our children and encourage and uplift them and strengthen their faith. the words we use can encourage and uplift them and strengthen their faith to stay on the path back to Heavenly Father. They come to this earth ready young father recently learned of These were the words Helaman to listen. the passing of his extraordinary taught his sons. And we read on: An example of a child listening A second-grade teacher. In mem- “And they did remember his words; happened in a fabric store. The store ory of her, he wrote: “Of all the feelings and . . . they went forth . . . to teach was crowded with shoppers when and experiences I remember, the feeling the word of God among all the it became obvious to everyone that most prevalent in my mind is ‘comfort.’ people.” 2 a mother was panicked because she She may have taught me spelling, gram- Even though Helaman’s sons had lost her young son. At first, she mar, and math, but far more importantly were persecuted and put in prison, was calling his name. “Connor,” she she taught me to love being a child. In those words they had heard never would say as she briskly walked her classroom, it was OK to spell a word failed them. They were protected and around the store. As time passed, her wrong here and there; ‘We’ll work on encircled about with a pillar of fire. voice got louder and more frantic. it,’ she’d say. It was OK to spill or tear Then came a voice, saying to their Soon the store security officers were or smudge; ‘We’ll fix it and we’ll clean captors: notified, and everyone in the store it up,’ she would respond. It was OK to “Repent ye, and seek no more to was involved in looking for the child. try, OK to stretch, OK to dream, and OK destroy my servants. . . . Several minutes passed with no suc- to enjoy those pleasures that come from “. . . It was not a voice of thun- cess of finding him. Connor’s mother, the insignificant things that only children der, neither was it a voice of a great understandably, was becoming more find exciting.” One of the greatest influences a person can have in this world is to influence a child. Children’s beliefs and self-worth are shaped early in their lives. Everyone within the sound of my voice has the power to increase a child’s confidence in himself or herself and to increase a child’s faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through the words they speak. In Helaman chapter 5 we read, “And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation.” 1

May 2013 81 a video on his phone with the toddler until his wife returned. “. . . [Dr.] Halfon observed a dim- ming of the child’s internal light, a lessening of the connection between parent and child.” 5 The answer to our prayer of how to meet our children’s needs may be to more often technologically discon- nect. Precious moments of oppor- tunity to interact and converse with our children dissolve when we are occupied with distractions. Why not choose a time each day to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other? Simply turn everything off. When you do this, your home may seem quiet at first; you may even feel at a loss as to what to do or say. Then, as you give full attention to your chil- frantic by the minute and was rapidly “Speak the thoughts that I shall put dren, a conversation will begin, and yelling his name over and over again. into your hearts, . . . you can enjoy listening to each other. One patron, after saying a silent “For it shall be given you in the prayer, had the thought that Connor very hour, yea, in the very moment, Write to Persuade Our Children may be frightened as he listened to his what ye shall say.” 4 We can also influence our children mother scream his name. She men- through the words we write to them. tioned this to another woman involved Disconnect and Listen with Love Nephi writes, “We labor diligently to in the search, and they quickly made Unfortunately, the distractions of write, to persuade our children . . . to a plan. Together they began to walk this world prevent many children from believe in Christ, and to be reconciled between the tables of fabric, quietly hearing encouraging words that could to God.” 6 repeating the words “Connor, if you shape their view of themselves. President Thomas S. Monson can hear my voice, say, ‘Here I am.’” As Dr. Neal Halfon, a physician who shared the experience of Jay Hess, they walked slowly toward the back directs the UCLA Center for Healthier an airman who was shot down over of the store repeating that phrase, sure Children, Families, and Communities, North Vietnam in the 1960s: “For two enough, they heard a timid, soft voice refers to “parental benign neglect.” years his family had no idea whether say, “Here I am.” Connor was hiding One example involved an 18-month- he was dead or alive. His captors between the bolts of fabric under a old and his parents: in Hanoi eventually allowed him to table. It was a voice of perfect mildness “‘Their son seemed happy, active write home but limited his message that encouraged Connor to respond. and engaged, clearly enjoying time to less than 25 words.” President and pizza with his parents. . . . At the Monson asks: “What would you and Pray to Know a Child’s Needs end of dinner, Mom got up to run an I say to our families if we were in To speak to a child’s heart, we must errand, handing over care to Dad.’ the same situation—not having seen know a child’s needs. If we pray to “Dad . . . started reading phone them for over two years and not know those needs, the very words we messages while the toddler struggled knowing if we would ever see them say may have the power to reach into to get his attention by throwing bits of again? Wanting to provide something their hearts. Our efforts are magnified pizza crust. Then the dad re-engaged, his family could recognize as having when we seek the direction of the facing his child and playing with him. come from him and also wanting to Holy Ghost. The Lord said: Soon, though, he substituted watching give them valuable counsel, Brother 82 Hess wrote [the following words]: By Elder L. Whitney Clayton ‘These things are important: temple Of the Presidency of the Seventy marriage, mission, college. Press on, set goals, write history, take pictures twice a year.’” 7 What words would you write to your children if you had 25 words Marriage: or less? The young father I spoke about earlier, who wrote about his memories Watch and Learn of his second-grade teacher, is now raising a beautiful baby daughter. He feels the heavenly trust that has been The promises of the Lord are extended to all those placed in him. As she grows up, what who follow the pattern of life that builds happy, will be her future? What will he say holy marriage relationships. that will sink deep into her heart? What words will encourage her, lift her, and help her to stay on the path? Will it make a difference if he takes ne evening several years ago, and wife consider their relationship time to whisper, “You are a child of my wife and I were visiting to be a pearl beyond price, a treasure God”? Will she remember someday Othe home of one of our sons of infinite worth. They both leave that her father often said the words, and his wife and children for dinner. their fathers and mothers and set out “I love everything about you”? It was a typical event for a family together to build a marriage that will Isn’t that what our Heavenly Father with small children: there was much prosper for eternity. They understand was saying to His Son and to all of us noise and even more fun. Shortly after that they walk a divinely ordained when He said, “This is my beloved dinner our four-year-old granddaugh- path. They know that no other relation­ Son” and then added, “in whom I am ter, Anna, and I were still sitting at the ship of any kind can bring as much well pleased”? 8 table. Realizing that she had my full joy, generate as much good, or pro- May the words we speak and write attention, she stood up straight on duce as much personal refinement. to our children reflect the love our a bench and fixed her eyes on me. Watch and learn: the best marriage Heavenly Father has for His Son, Jesus When she was sure that I was looking partners regard their marriages as Christ, and for us. And then may we at her, she solemnly ordered me to priceless. pause to listen, for a child is most “watch and learn.” She then danced Next, faith. Successful eternal capable of speaking great and marvel- and sang a song for me. marriages are built on the foundation ous things in return. I say this in the Anna’s instruction to “watch and of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ learn” was wisdom from the mouth adherence to His teachings.1 I have of a babe. We can learn so much by observed that couples who have made NOTES 1. Helaman 5:12. watching and then considering what their marriages priceless practice the 2. Helaman 5:14; emphasis added. we have seen and felt. In that spirit, let patterns of faith: they attend sacra- 3. Helaman 5:29–30. me share with you a few principles I ment and other meetings every week, 4. Doctrine and Covenants 100:5–6. 5. Lois M. Collins, “Baby’s Development have observed by watching and learn- hold family home evening, pray and Potentially Harmed by Parents Texting,” ing from wonderful, faithful marriages. study the scriptures together and as Deseret News, June 4, 2012, deseretnews. These principles build strong, satisfy- individuals, and pay an honest tithing. com/article/print/865556895/Babys- development-potentially-harmed-by- ing marriages that are compatible with Their mutual quest is to be obedient parents-texting.html. heavenly principles. I invite you to and good. They do not consider the 6. 2 Nephi 25:23. watch and learn with me. commandments to be a buffet from 7. Thomas S. Monson, “Finding Joy in the Journey,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2008, 86. First, I have observed that in the which they can pick and choose only 8. Matthew 3:17. happiest marriages both the husband the most appealing offerings.

May 2013 83 Husbands and wives in great mar- riages make decisions unanimously, with each of them acting as a full par- ticipant and entitled to an equal voice and vote.5 They focus first on the home and on helping each other with their shared responsibilities.6 Their marriages are based on cooperation,­ not negotiation. Their dinner hour and the family time that follows become the center of their day and the object of their best efforts. They turn off electronics and forgo personal entertainment in order to help with household duties. To the extent possi- ble, they read with their children every night and both participate in putting the little ones to bed. They retire to their bed together. As their duties and circumstances permit, husbands and wives work side by side in doing the most important work there is—the Faith is the foundation of every humility answers softly 2 and listens work we do in our own homes. virtue that strengthens marriage. kindly for understanding, not vindica- Where there is respect, there is also Strengthening faith strengthens tion. Humility recognizes that no one transparency, which is a key element marriage. Faith grows as we keep can change someone else, but with of happy marriages. There are no the commandments, and so do the faith, effort, and the help of God, we secrets about relevant matters in mar- harmony and joy in marriage. Thus, can undergo our own mighty change riages based on mutual respect and keeping the commandments is funda- of heart.3 Experiencing the mighty transparency. Husbands and wives mental to establishing strong eternal change of heart causes us to treat make all decisions about finances marriages. Watch and learn: faith in others, especially our spouses, with together, and both have access to all the Lord Jesus Christ is the foundation meekness.4 Humility means that both information. of happy eternal marriages. husbands and wives seek to bless, Loyalty is a form of respect. Third, repentance. I have learned help, and lift each other, putting the Prophets teach that successful mar- that happy marriages rely on the other first in every decision. Watch riage partners are “fiercely loyal” to gift of repentance. It is an essen- and learn: repentance and humility each other.7 They keep their social tial element in every good marital build happy marriages. media use fully worthy in every way. relationship. Spouses who regularly Fourth, respect. I have observed They permit themselves no secret conduct honest self-examination and that in wonderful, happy marriages, Internet experiences. They freely promptly take needed steps to repent husbands and wives treat each other share with each other their social net- and improve experience a healing as equal partners. Practices from any work passwords. They do not look balm in their marriages. Repentance place or any time in which husbands at the virtual profiles of anyone in helps restore and maintain harmony have dominated wives or treated them any way that might betray the sacred and peace. in any way as second-class partners trust of their spouse. They never do Humility is the essence of repen- in marriage are not in keeping with or say anything that approaches the tance. Humility is selfless, not selfish. divine law and should be replaced appearance of impropriety, either vir- It doesn’t demand its own way or by correct principles and patterns of tually or physically. Watch and learn: speak with moral superiority. Instead, behavior. terrific marriages are completely 84 respectful, transparent, and loyal. Fifth, love. The happiest marriages I have seen radiate obedience to one of the happiest commandments—that we “live together in love.” 8 Speaking to husbands, the Lord commanded, “Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else.” 9 A Church handbook teaches: “The word cleave means to be completely devoted and faithful to someone. Married couples cleave to God and one another by serving and loving each other and by keep- ing covenants in complete fidelity to one another and to God.” Both the husband and wife “leave behind their single life and establish their marriage as [their] first priority. . . . They allow no other person or interest to have greater priority . . . than keeping the covenants they have made with God and each other.” 10 Watch and learn: successful couples love each other with complete devotion. There are those whose marriages are not as happy as they would wish, as well as those who have never married, are divorced, are single parents, or for various reasons are not in a position to marry. These circumstances can be full 13 of challenge and heartbreak, but they the Lord had made unto them.” The NOTES need not be eternal. To those of you promises of the Lord are extended to 1. See “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign or Liahona, in such situations who nevertheless all those who follow the pattern of Nov. 2010, 129. “cheerfully do all things that lie in [your] life that builds happy, holy marriage 2. See Proverbs 15:1. power” 11 to persevere, may heaven relationships. Such blessings come 3. See Alma 5:11–12, 26–31. 4. See Moroni 7:43–48; 8:25–26. bless you richly. Seek after the ideal of as the delightful, predictable conse- 5. See Doctrine and Covenants 107:27–31. forming an eternal marriage, including quences of faithfully living the gospel 6. See “The Family: A Proclamation to the by striving or preparing to be a worthy of Jesus Christ. World,” 129. 7. See Thomas S. Monson, “Priesthood spouse. Keep the commandments, and I am grateful for my wonderful Power,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, trust the Lord and His perfect love for wife, Kathy, who is the love of my life. 68; Gordon B. Hinckley, “Life’s you. One day every promised blessing Marriage is a gift from God to us; Obligations,” Ensign, Feb. 1999, 4; concerning marriage will be yours.12 the quality of our marriages is a gift Liahona, May 1999, 4. 8. Doctrine and Covenants 42:45. One of the sweetest verses in the from us to Him. I bear testimony of 9. Doctrine and Covenants 42:22. Book of Mormon states simply, “And the marvelous plan of our loving 10. Handbook 2: Administering the Church they were married, and given in mar- Heavenly Father, which provides for (2010), 1.3.1. 11. Doctrine and Covenants 123:17. riage, and were blessed according to eternal, wondrous marriage. In the 12. See Handbook 2, 1.3.3. the multitude of the promises which name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 13. 4 Nephi 1:11.

May 2013 85 By Elder L. Tom Perry freedom from sin; for truly ‘obedience Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to law is liberty.’” 2 Why did the phrase “obedience to law is liberty” ring so true to me at the time? Why does it ring true to all of us now? Obedience to Law Perhaps it is because we have a revealed knowledge of our premortal history. We recognize that when God Is Liberty the Eternal Father presented His plan to us at the beginning of time, Satan wanted to alter the plan. He said he Men and women receive their agency as a gift from God, would redeem all mankind. Not one but their liberty and, in turn, their eternal happiness soul would be lost, and Satan was come from obedience to His laws. confident he could deliver on his proposal. But there was an unaccept- able cost—the destruction of man’s agency, which was and is a gift given received a special gift last Christmas deeds. It is a war with sin, and more by God (see Moses 4:1–3). About that brought with it many memo- than ever we need to be reminded this gift, President Harold B. Lee said, ries. My niece gave it to me. It had of the commandments. Secularism “Next to life itself, free agency is God’s I 3 been among the things I had left in is becoming the norm, and many of greatest gift to mankind.” Then it was our old family home when I moved its beliefs and practices are in direct no small thing for Satan to disregard out after I was married. The gift was conflict with those that were instituted man’s agency. In fact, it became the this little brown book I hold in my by the Lord Himself for the benefit of principal issue over which the War hand. It is a book that was given to His children. in Heaven was fought. Victory in the LDS servicemen who entered the In the little brown book, imme- War in Heaven was a victory for man’s armed forces during World War II. I diately after the letter from the First agency. personally viewed the book as a gift Presidency, there is a “Prefatory Satan, however, was not done. His from President Heber J. Grant and his Note to Men in the Service,” titled backup plan—the plan he has been counselors, J. Reuben Clark Jr. and “Obedience to Law Is Liberty.” The executing since the time of Adam and David O. McKay. note draws a parallel between military Eve—was to tempt men and women, In the front of the book, these three law, which is “for the good of all who essentially to prove we are undeserv- prophets of God wrote: “The incidents are in the service,” and divine law. ing of the God-given gift of agency. of the armed service do not permit It states, “In the universe, too, Satan has many reasons for doing our keeping in constant personal where God is in command, there is what he does. Perhaps the most pow- touch with you, either directly or by law—universal, eternal . . . law—with erful is the motive of revenge, but he personal representation. Our next best certain blessings and immutable also wants to make men and women course is to put in your hands such penalties.” miserable like he is miserable. None portions of modern revelation and of The final words of the note focus of us should ever underestimate how explanations of the principles of the on obedience to God’s law: “If you driven Satan is to succeed. His role in Gospel as shall bring to you, wherever wish to return to your loved ones with God’s eternal plan creates “opposition you may be, renewed hope and faith, head erect, . . . if you would be a man in all things” (2 Nephi 2:11) and tests as likewise comfort, consolation, and and live abundantly—then observe our agency. Each choice you and I peace of spirit.” 1 God’s law. In so doing you can add to make is a test of our agency—whether Today we find ourselves in another those priceless freedoms which you we choose to be obedient or disobe- war. This is not a war of armaments. are struggling to preserve, another on dient to the commandments of God is It is a war of thoughts, words, and which the others may well depend, actually a choice between “liberty and 86 eternal life” and “captivity and death.” Ten Commandments have been the • And coveting has become a far too This fundamental doctrine is clearly most accepted and enduring delinea- common way of life. (See Exodus taught in 2 Nephi, the second chapter: tion between good and evil. 20:3–17.) “Wherefore, men are free according to In my judgment, four of the Ten the flesh; and all things are given them Commandments are taken as seriously Prophets from all dispensations which are expedient unto man. And today as ever. As a culture, we disdain have consistently warned against they are free to choose liberty and and condemn murder, stealing, and violations of two of the more serious eternal life, through the great Mediator lying, and we still believe in the commandments—the ones relating of all men, or to choose captivity and responsibility of children to their to murder and adultery. I see a death, according to the captivity and parents. common basis for these two critical power of the devil; for he seeketh that But as a larger society, we routinely commandments—the belief that life all men might be miserable like unto dismiss the other six commandments: itself is the prerogative of God and himself” (2 Nephi 2:27). that our physical bodies, the temples In many respects, this world has • If worldly priorities are any indica- of mortal life, should be created always been at war. I believe when tion, we certainly have “other gods” within the bounds God has set. For the First Presidency sent me my little we put before the true God. man to substitute his own rules for brown book, they were more con- • We make idols of celebrities, of the laws of God on either end of life cerned about a greater war than World lifestyles, of wealth, and yes, some- is the height of presumption and the War II. I also believe they hoped times of graven images or objects. depth of sin. the book would be a shield of faith • We use the name of God in all The main effects of these depre- against Satan and his armies in this kinds of profane ways, including ciating attitudes about the sanctity greater war—the war against sin—and our exclamations and our swearing. of marriage are the consequences to serve as a reminder to me to live the • We use the Sabbath day for our families—the strength of families is commandments of God. biggest games, our most serious deteriorating at an alarming rate. This One way to measure ourselves and recreation, our heaviest shopping, deterioration is causing widespread compare us to previous generations is and virtually everything else but damage to society. I see direct cause by one of the oldest standards known worship. and effect. As we give up commitment to man—the Ten Commandments. For • We treat sexual relations out- and fidelity to our marriage partners, much of the civilized world, partic- side marriage as recreation and we remove the glue that holds our ularly the Judeo-Christian world, the entertainment. society together.

May 2013 87 Surely there could not be any doctrine more strongly expressed in the scriptures than the Lord’s unchanging commandments and their connection to our happiness and well-being as individuals, as families, and as a society. There are moral absolutes. Disobedience to the Lord’s commandments will always deprive us of His blessings. These things do not change. In a world where the moral com- pass of society is faltering, the restored gospel of Jesus Christ never wavers, nor should its stakes and wards, its families, or its individual members. We must not pick and choose which commandments we think are impor- tant to keep but acknowledge all of God’s commandments. We must stand A useful way to think about the always be sin. Disobedience to the firm and steadfast, having perfect con- commandments is they are loving Lord’s commandments will always fidence in the Lord’s consistency and counsel from a wise, all-knowing deprive us of His blessings. The world perfect trust in His promises. Heavenly Father. His goal is our eternal changes constantly and dramatically, but May we ever be a light on the hill, happiness, and His commandments are God, His commandments, and prom- an example in keeping the command- the road map He has given us to return ised blessings do not change. They are ments, which have never changed and to Him, which is the only way we will immutable and unchanging. Men and will never change. Just as this small be eternally happy. How significant women receive their agency as a gift book encouraged LDS servicemen are the home and the family to our from God, but their liberty and, in turn, to stand morally firm in times of war, eternal happiness? On page 141 of my their eternal happiness come from obe- may we, in this latter-day war, be a little brown book, it states, “Indeed our dience to His laws. As Alma counseled beacon to all the earth and particularly heaven is little more than a projection his errant son Corianton, “Wickedness to God’s children who are seeking the of our homes into eternity.” 4 never was happiness” (Alma 41:10). Lord’s blessings. Of this I testify in the The doctrine of the family and the In this day of the Restoration of name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ home was recently reiterated with the fulness of the gospel, the Lord NOTES great clarity and forcefulness in “The has again revealed to us the blessings 1. First Presidency, in Principles of the Gospel Family: A Proclamation to the World.” It promised us for being obedient to His (1943), i. 2. Principles of the Gospel, v, vii, viii. declared the eternal nature of families commandments. 3. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: and then explained the connection to In Doctrine and Covenants 130 Harold B. Lee (2000), 4. temple worship. The proclamation also we read: 4. Stephen L Richards, in Principles of the Gospel, 141. declared the law upon which the eter- “There is a law, irrevocably decreed 5. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” nal happiness of families is predicated, in heaven before the foundations of Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 129. namely, “The sacred powers of procre- this world, upon which all blessings ation are to be employed only between are predicated— man and woman, lawfully wedded as “And when we obtain any blessing Short Video Highlight husband and wife.” 5 from God, it is by obedience to that Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf15 to God reveals to His prophets that law upon which it is predicated” (D&C watch or share a short video there are moral absolutes. Sin will 130:20–21). clip of this message. 88 We learn obedience throughout By President Thomas S. Monson our lives. Beginning when we are very young, those responsible for our care set forth guidelines and rules to ensure our safety. Life would be simpler for all of us if we would obey Obedience such rules completely. Many of us, however, learn through experience the wisdom of being obedient. Brings Blessings When I was growing up, each summer from early July until early September, my family stayed at our A knowledge of truth and the answers to our greatest questions cabin at Vivian Park in Provo Canyon come to us as we are obedient to the commandments of God. in Utah. One of my best friends during those carefree days in the canyon was Danny Larsen, whose family also owned a y beloved brothers and to recognize it?” In a revelation given cabin at Vivian Park. Each day he and sisters, how grateful I am to through the Prophet Joseph Smith at I roamed this boy’s paradise, fishing Mbe with you this morning. Kirtland, Ohio, in May of 1833, the in the stream and the river, collecting I seek an interest in your faith and Lord declared: rocks and other treasures, hiking, prayers as I respond to the privilege “Truth is knowledge of things as climbing, and simply enjoying each to address you. they are, and as they were, and as minute of each hour of each day. Throughout the ages, men and they are to come. . . . One morning Danny and I decided women have sought for knowledge “The Spirit of truth is of God. . . . we wanted to have a campfire that and understanding concerning this “And no man receiveth a fulness evening with all our canyon friends. mortal existence and their place and unless he keepeth his commandments. We just needed to clear an area in purpose in it, as well as for the way to “He that keepeth [God’s] command- a nearby field where we could all peace and happiness. Such a search is ments receiveth truth and light, until gather. The June grass which covered undertaken by each of us. he is glorified in truth and knoweth all the field had become dry and prickly, This knowledge and understanding things.” 2 making the field unsuitable for our are available to all mankind. They are What a glorious promise! “He purposes. We began to pull at the tall contained in truths which are eternal. that keepeth [God’s] commandments grass, planning to clear a large, circu- In Doctrine and Covenants section 1, receiveth truth and light, until he is lar area. We tugged and yanked with verse 39, we read, “Behold, and lo, glorified in truth and knoweth all all our might, but all we could get the Lord is God, and the Spirit beareth things.” were small handfuls of the stubborn record, and the record is true, and the There is no need for you or for weeds. We knew this task would take truth abideth forever and ever.” me, in this enlightened age when the entire day, and already our energy The poet wrote: the fulness of the gospel has been and enthusiasm were waning. restored, to sail uncharted seas or to And then what I thought was the Tho the heavens depart and the earth’s travel unmarked roads in search of perfect solution came into my eight- fountains burst, truth. A loving Heavenly Father has year-old mind. I said to Danny, “All Truth, the sum of existence, will plotted our course and provided an we need is to set these weeds on fire. weather the worst, unfailing guide—even obedience. A We’ll just burn a circle in the weeds!” Eternal, unchanged, evermore.1 knowledge of truth and the answers He readily agreed, and I ran to our to our greatest questions come to us cabin to get a few matches. Some would ask, “Where is such as we are obedient to the command- Lest any of you think that at truth to be found, and how are we ments of God. the tender age of eight we were

May 2013 89 permitted to use matches, I want to the Lord has provided guidelines and thou hast not withheld thy son, thine make it clear that both Danny and I commandments to help ensure our only son from me.” 6 were forbidden to use them without spiritual safety so that we might suc- Abraham had been tried and tested, adult supervision. Both of us had cessfully navigate this often-treacherous and for his faithfulness and obedience been warned repeatedly of the dan- mortal existence and return eventually the Lord gave him this glorious prom- gers of fire. However, I knew where to our Heavenly Father. ise: “In thy seed shall all the nations my family kept the matches, and we Centuries ago, to a generation of the earth be blessed; because thou needed to clear that field. Without so steeped in the tradition of animal hast obeyed my voice.” 7 much as a second thought, I ran to sacrifice, Samuel boldly declared, “To Although we are not asked to prove our cabin and grabbed a few match- obey is better than sacrifice, and to our obedience in such a dramatic and sticks, making certain no one was hearken than the fat of rams.” 3 heart-wrenching way, obedience is watching. I hid them quickly in one In this dispensation, the Lord required of us as well. of my pockets. revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith Declared President Joseph F. Smith Back to Danny I ran, excited that that He requires “the heart and a will- in October 1873, “Obedience is the in my pocket I had the solution to our ing mind; and the willing and obedi- first law of heaven.” 8 problem. I recall thinking that the fire ent shall eat the good of the land of Said President Gordon B. Hinckley, would burn only as far as we wanted Zion in these last days.” 4 “The happiness of the Latter-day Saints, and then would somehow magically All prophets, ancient and modern, the peace of the Latter-day Saints, the extinguish itself. have known that obedience is essen- progress of the Latter-day Saints, the I struck a match on a rock and tial to our salvation. Nephi declared, prosperity of the Latter-day Saints, set the parched June grass ablaze. “I will go and do the things which and the eternal salvation and exal- It ignited as though it had been the Lord hath commanded.” 5 Though tation of this people lie in walking drenched in gasoline. At first Danny others faltered in their faith and their in obedience to the counsels of . . . and I were thrilled as we watched the obedience, never once did Nephi fail God.” 9 weeds disappear, but it soon became to do that which the Lord asked of Obedience is a hallmark of proph- apparent that the fire was not about to him. Untold generations have been ets; it has provided strength and go out on its own. We panicked as we blessed as a result. knowledge to them throughout the realized there was nothing we could A soul-stirring account of obedi- ages. It is essential for us to realize do to stop it. The menacing flames ence is that of Abraham and Isaac. that we, as well, are entitled to this began to follow the wild grass up the How painfully difficult it must have source of strength and knowledge. It mountainside, endangering the pine been for Abraham, in obedience to is readily available to each of us today trees and everything else in their path. God’s command, to take his beloved as we obey God’s commandments. Finally we had no option but to run Isaac into the land of Moriah to offer Throughout the years, I have for help. Soon all available men and him as a sacrifice. Can we imagine known countless individuals who women at Vivian Park were dashing the heaviness of Abraham’s heart as have been particularly faithful and back and forth with wet burlap bags, he journeyed to the appointed place? obedient. I have been blessed beating at the flames in an attempt to Surely anguish must have racked his and inspired by them. May I share extinguish them. After several hours the body and tortured his mind as he with you an account of two such last remaining embers were smoth- bound Isaac, laid him on the altar, individuals. ered. The ages-old pine trees had been and took the knife to slay him. With Walter Krause was a steadfast saved, as were the homes the flames unwavering faith and implicit trust member of the Church who, with his would eventually have reached. in the Lord, he responded to the family, lived in what became known Danny and I learned several Lord’s command. How glorious was as East Germany following the Second difficult but important lessons that the pronouncement, and with what World War. Despite the hardships he day—not the least of which was the wondered welcome did it come: “Lay faced because of the lack of freedom importance of obedience. not thine hand upon the lad, neither in that area of the world at the time, There are rules and laws to help do thou any thing unto him: for now Brother Krause was a man who loved ensure our physical safety. Likewise, I know that thou fearest God, seeing and served the Lord. He faithfully and 90 conscientiously fulfilled each assign- and to visit him on a regular basis. Brother Krause responded, “Oh, in ment given to him. Brother Krause called his home about a week—if we get back.” The other man, Johann Denndorfer, teaching companion and said to him, Away the two home teaching a native of Hungary, was converted “We have received an assignment companions went to visit Brother to the Church in Germany and was to visit Brother Johann Denndorfer. Denndorfer, traveling by train baptized there in 1911 at the age of 17. Would you be available to go with me and bus from the northeastern Not too long afterward he returned to this week to see him and give him a area of Germany to Debrecen, Hungary. Following the Second World gospel message?” And then he added, Hungary—a substantial journey. War, he found himself virtually a “Brother Denndorfer lives in Hungary.” Brother Denndorfer had not had prisoner in his native land, in the city His startled companion asked, home teachers since before the war. of Debrecen. Freedom had also been “When will we leave?” Now, when he saw these servants taken from the people of Hungary. “Tomorrow,” came the reply from of the Lord, he was overwhelmed Brother Walter Krause, who did not Brother Krause. with gratitude that they had come. know Brother Denndorfer, received “When will we return home?” asked At first he declined to shake hands the assignment to be his home teacher the companion. with them. Rather, he went to his

May 2013 91 great drops of blood falling down to the ground,” 14 He exemplified the obedient Son by saying, “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” 15 As the Savior instructed His early Apostles, so He instructs you and me, “Follow thou me.” 16 Are we willing to obey? The knowledge which we seek, the answers for which we yearn, and the strength which we desire today to meet the challenges of a complex and changing world can be ours when we bedroom and took from a small cab- abide the law which was appointed willingly obey the Lord’s command- inet a box containing his tithing that for that blessing, and the conditions ments. I quote once again the words he had saved for years. He presented thereof, as were instituted from before of the Lord: “He that keepeth [God’s] the tithing to his home teachers and the foundation of the world.” 11 commandments receiveth truth and said, “Now I am current with the No greater example of obedience light, until he is glorified in truth and Lord. Now I feel worthy to shake exists than that of our Savior. Of Him, knoweth all things.” 17 the hands of servants of the Lord!” Paul observed: It is my humble prayer that we Brother Krause told me later that he “Though he were a Son, yet may be blessed with the rich rewards had been touched beyond words to learned he obedience by the things promised to the obedient. In the name think that this faithful brother, who which he suffered; of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, had no contact with the Church for “And being made perfect, he amen. ◼ many years, had obediently and became the author of eternal salvation consistently taken from his meager unto all them that obey him.” 12 NOTES 1. “Oh Say, What Is Truth?” Hymns, no. 272. earnings 10 percent with which to The Savior demonstrated genuine 2. Doctrine and Covenants 93:24, 26–28. pay his tithing. He had saved it not love of God by living the perfect life, by 3. 1 Samuel 15:22. knowing when or if he might have honoring the sacred mission that was 4. Doctrine and Covenants 64:34. 5. 1 Nephi 3:7. the privilege of paying it. His. Never was He haughty. Never was 6. Genesis 22:12. Brother Walter Krause passed He puffed up with pride. Never was He 7. Genesis 22:18. away nine years ago at the age of 94. disloyal. Ever was He humble. Ever was 8. Joseph F. Smith, “Discourse,” Deseret News, Nov. 12, 1873, 644. He served faithfully and obediently He sincere. Ever was He obedient. 9. Gordon B. Hinckley, “If Ye Be Willing and throughout his life and was an inspira- Though He was tempted by that Obedient,” Ensign, Dec. 1971, 125. tion to me and to all who knew him. master of deceit, even the devil, 10. Abraham 3:25. 11. Doctrine and Covenants 132:5. When asked to fulfill assignments, he though He was physically weakened 12. Hebrews 5:8–9. never questioned, he never mur- from fasting 40 days and 40 nights and 13. See Matthew 4:1–11. mured, and he never made excuses. was an hungered, yet when the evil 14. Luke 22:44. 15. Luke 22:42. My brothers and sisters, the great one proffered Jesus the most alluring 16. John 21:22. test of this life is obedience. “We and tempting proposals, He gave to 17. Doctrine and Covenants 93:28. will prove them herewith,” said the us a divine example of obedience Lord, “to see if they will do all things by refusing to deviate from what He whatsoever the Lord their God shall knew was right.13 Short Video Highlight command them.” 10 When faced with the agony of Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf16 to Declared the Savior, “For all who Gethsemane, where He endured such watch or share a short video will have a blessing at my hands shall pain that “his sweat was as it were clip of this message. 92 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION | April 7, 2013

grateful for anything—a partial blessing, a glimmer of hope, some small lifting of By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland the burden carried by this boy’s mother Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles every day of her life.” “If thou canst do any thing,” spo- ken by the father, comes back to him “If thou canst believe,” spoken by the Master.4 “Lord, I Believe” “Straightway,” the scripture says— not slowly nor skeptically nor cyn- Honestly acknowledge your questions and your concerns, but ically but “straightway”—the father cries out in his unvarnished parental first and forever fan the flame of your faith, because all things pain, “Lord, I believe; help thou mine are possible to them that believe. unbelief.” In response to new and still partial faith, Jesus heals the boy, almost literally raising him from the dead, as Mark describes the incident.5 n one occasion Jesus came Alma declares, “let this desire work in With this tender scriptural record upon a group arguing vehe- you, even until ye believe.” 2 With no as a backdrop, I wish to speak directly Omently with His disciples. other hope remaining, this father asserts to the young people of the Church— When the Savior inquired as to the what faith he has and pleads with the young in years of age or young in cause of this contention, the father Savior of the world, “If thou canst do years of membership or young in of an afflicted child stepped forward, any thing, have compassion on us, and years of faith. One way or another, saying he had approached Jesus’s help us.” 3 I can hardly read those words that should include just about all of us. disciples for a blessing for his son, without weeping. The plural pronoun Observation number one regard- but they were not able to provide it. us is obviously used intentionally. This ing this account is that when facing With the boy still gnashing his teeth, man is saying, in effect, “Our whole the challenge of faith, the father foaming from the mouth, and thrash- family is pleading. Our struggle never asserts his strength first and only then ing on the ground in front of them, ceases. We are exhausted. Our son falls acknowledges his limitation. His initial the father appealed to Jesus with what into the water. He falls into the fire. He declaration is affirmative and without must have been last-resort desperation is continually in danger, and we are con- hesitation: “Lord, I believe.” I would in his voice: tinually afraid. We don’t know where say to all who wish for more faith, “If thou canst do any thing,” he else to turn. Can you help us? We will be remember this man! In moments of fear said, “have compassion on us, and help us. “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. “And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.” 1 This man’s initial conviction, by his own admission, is limited. But he has an urgent, emphatic desire in behalf of his only child. We are told that is good enough for a beginning. “Even if ye can no more than desire to believe,”

May 2013 frailty—your own as well as that of those who serve with you in a Church led by volunteer, mortal men and women. Except in the case of His only perfect Begotten Son, imperfect people are all God has ever had to work with. That must be terribly frustrating to Him, but He deals with it. So should we. And when you see imperfection, remember that the limitation is not in the divinity of the work. As one gifted writer has suggested, when the infinite fulness is or doubt or troubling times, hold the than is an honest declaration of faith. poured forth, it is not the oil’s fault if ground you have already won, even if It is not! So let us all remember the there is some loss because finite vessels that ground is limited. In the growth clear message of this scriptural account: can’t quite contain it all.10 Those finite we all have to experience in mortality, Be as candid about your questions as vessels include you and me, so be the spiritual equivalent of this boy’s you need to be; life is full of them on patient and kind and forgiving. affliction or this parent’s desperation is one subject or another. But if you and Last observation: When doubt or going to come to all of us. When those your family want to be healed, don’t difficulty come, do not be afraid to moments come and issues surface, let those questions stand in the way of ask for help. If we want it as humbly the resolution of which is not imme- faith working its miracle. and honestly as this father did, we diately forthcoming, hold fast to what Furthermore, you have more faith can get it. The scriptures phrase such you already know and stand strong than you think you do because of what earnest desire as being of “real intent,” until additional knowledge comes. It the Book of Mormon calls “the great- pursued “with full purpose of heart, was of this very incident, this specific ness of the evidences.” 7 “Ye shall know acting no hypocrisy and no decep- miracle, that Jesus said, “If ye have faith them by their fruits,” Jesus said,8 and tion before God.” 11 I testify that in as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say the fruit of living the gospel is evident response to that kind of importuning, unto this mountain, Remove hence to in the lives of Latter-day Saints every- God will send help from both sides of yonder place; and it shall remove; and where. As Peter and John said once to the veil to strengthen our belief. nothing shall be impossible unto you.” 6 an ancient audience, I say today, “We I said I was speaking to the young. The size of your faith or the degree of cannot but speak the things which we I still am. A 14-year-old boy recently your knowledge is not the issue—it is have seen and heard,” and what we said to me a little hesitantly, “Brother the integrity you demonstrate toward have seen and heard is that “a notable Holland, I can’t say yet that I know the faith you do have and the truth you miracle hath been done” in the lives the Church is true, but I believe it is.” I already know. of millions of members of this Church. hugged that boy until his eyes bulged The second observation is a varia- That cannot be denied.9 out. I told him with all the fervor of tion of the first. When problems come Brothers and sisters, this is a divine my soul that belief is a precious word, and questions arise, do not start your work in process, with the manifesta- an even more precious act, and he quest for faith by saying how much tions and blessings of it abounding need never apologize for “only believ- you do not have, leading as it were in every direction, so please don’t ing.” I told him that Christ Himself with your “unbelief.” That is like trying hyperventilate if from time to time said, “Be not afraid, only believe,” 12 to stuff a turkey through the beak! Let issues arise that need to be examined, a phrase which, by the way, carried me be clear on this point: I am not ask- understood, and resolved. They do young Gordon B. Hinckley into the ing you to pretend to faith you do not and they will. In this Church, what mission field.13 I told this boy that have. I am asking you to be true to the we know will always trump what we belief was always the first step toward faith you do have. Sometimes we act as do not know. And remember, in this conviction and that the definitive arti- if an honest declaration of doubt is a world, everyone is to walk by faith. cles of our collective faith forcefully higher manifestation of moral courage So be kind regarding human reiterate the phrase “We believe.” 14 94 And I told him how very proud I was again, and because He did, you and moves devotedly and buoyantly toward of him for the honesty of his quest. I will also. I know that Joseph Smith, the 50th anniversary of his ordination Now, with the advantage that nearly who acknowledged that he wasn’t as an Apostle, is the rightful successor 60 years give me since I was a newly perfect,15 was nevertheless the chosen to that prophetic mantle today. We believing 14-year-old, I declare some instrument in God’s hand to restore the have seen that mantle upon him again things I now know. I know that God everlasting gospel to the earth. I also in this conference. I know that 14 other is at all times and in all ways and in know that in doing so—particularly men whom you sustain as prophets, all circumstances our loving, forgiving through translating the Book of Mormon seers, and revelators sustain him with Father in Heaven. I know Jesus was —he has taught me more of God’s their hands, their hearts, and their own His only perfect child, whose life was love, of Christ’s divinity, and of priest- apostolic keys. given lovingly by the will of both the hood power than any other prophet These things I declare to you with Father and the Son for the redemption of whom I have ever read, known, or the conviction Peter called the “more of all the rest of us who are not perfect. heard in a lifetime of seeking. I know sure word of prophecy.” 16 What was I know He rose from that death to live that President Thomas S. Monson, who once a tiny seed of belief for me has grown into the tree of life, so if your faith is a little tested in this or any season, I invite you to lean on mine. I know this work is God’s very truth, and I know that only at our peril would we allow doubt or devils to sway us from its path. Hope on. Journey on. Honestly acknowledge your questions and your concerns, but first and forever fan the flame of your faith, because all things are possible to them that believe. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ NOTES 1. Mark 9:22–24; see also verses 14–21. 2. Alma 32:27; emphasis added. 3. Mark 9:22; emphasis added. 4. Mark 9:22, 23; emphasis added. 5. See Mark 9:24–27. 6. Matthew 17:20. 7. Helaman 5:50. 8. Matthew 7:16. 9. See Acts 4:16, 20. 10. Adapted from Alfred Edersheim, The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, 2 vols. (1883), 2:108. 11. 2 Nephi 31:13. 12. Mark 5:36. 13. See Gordon B. Hinckley, in Conference Report, Oct. 1969, 114. 14. See Articles of Faith 1:1–13. 15. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 522. 16. 2 Peter 1:19.

Short Video Highlight Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf17 to watch or share a short video clip of this message.

May 2013 95 By Elder Dallin H. Oaks (Luke 16:15) and “the tradition of Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles men” (Mark 7:8; see also verse 13). He also warned, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, Followers of Christ therefore the world hateth you” ( John 15:19). As the Apostle Peter later Following Christ is not a casual or occasional practice declared, the followers of Jesus were to be “a peculiar people” (1 Peter 2:9). but a continuous commitment and way of life that applies Latter-day Saints understand that at all times and in all places. we should not be “of the world” or bound to “the tradition of men,” but like other followers of Christ, we sometimes find it difficult to separate ne of our most beloved and each of us qualify as followers of ourselves from the world and its tra- hymns, performed by the Christ. ditions. Some model themselves after OTabernacle Choir this morning, Jesus taught that baptism was nec- worldly ways because, as Jesus said begins with these words: essary to enter the kingdom of God of some whom He taught, “they loved (see John 3:5). He began His ministry the praise of men more than the praise “Come, follow me,” the Savior said. by being baptized (see Mark 1:9), and of God” ( John 12:43). These failures Then let us in his footsteps tread, He and His followers baptized others to follow Christ are too numerous and For thus alone can we be one (see John 3:22–26). We do likewise. too sensitive to list here. They range With God’s own loved, begotten Son.1 Jesus began His preaching by all the way from worldly practices like inviting His listeners to repent (see political correctness and extremes in Those words, inspired by the Matthew 4:17). That is still His ser- dress and grooming to deviations from Savior’s earliest invitation to His disci- vants’ message to the world. basic values like the eternal nature ples (see Matthew 4:19), were written Throughout His ministry Jesus and function of the family. by John Nicholson, a Scottish convert. gave commandments. And He taught, Jesus’s teachings were not meant to Like many of our early leaders, he had “If ye love me, keep my command- be theoretical. Always they were to be little formal schooling but a profound ments” ( John 14:15; see also verses acted upon. Jesus taught, “Whosoever love for our Savior and the plan of 21, 23). He affirmed that keeping His heareth these sayings of mine, and salvation.2 commandments would require His doeth them, I will liken him unto a All of the messages of this confer- followers to leave what He called “that wise man” (Matthew 7:24; see also ence help us follow in the footsteps of which is highly esteemed among men” Luke 11:28) and “Blessed is that servant, our Savior, whose example and teach- ings define the path for every follower of Jesus Christ. Like all other Christians, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints study the life of our Savior as reported in the New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. I will review examples and teachings contained in these four books of the Holy Bible and invite each of us and all other Christians to consider how this restored Church 96 whom his lord when he cometh shall will always remember Him and keep missionaries and others who have left find so doing” (Matthew 24:46). In His commandments. children and grandchildren to perform another beloved hymn we sing: Jesus taught that “men ought the missionary duties to which they always to pray” (Luke 18:1). He also have been called. Savior, may I learn to love thee, set that example, such as when He Jesus taught that God created male Walk the path that thou hast shown. . . . “continued all night in prayer to God” and female and that a man should Savior, may I learn to love thee— (Luke 6:12) before He called His leave his parents and cleave to his wife Lord, I would follow thee.3 Twelve Apostles. Like other Christians, (see Mark 10:6–8). Our commitment we pray in all our worship services. to this teaching is well known. As Jesus taught, those who love We also pray for guidance, and we In the familiar parable of the lost Him will keep His commandments. teach that we should have frequent sheep, Jesus taught that we should go They will be obedient, as President personal prayers and daily kneeling out of our way to seek after any of the Thomas S. Monson taught this morn- prayers as a family. Like Jesus, we pray flock who have strayed (see Matthew ing. Following Christ is not a casual to our Father in Heaven, and we do so 18:11–14; Luke 15:3–7). As we know, or occasional practice but a continu- in the sacred name of Jesus Christ. President Thomas S. Monson has ous commitment and way of life that The Savior called Twelve Apostles given great emphasis to this direction applies at all times and in all places. to assist in His Church and gave them in his memorable example and teach- The Savior taught this principle and the keys and authority to carry on ings about rescuing our fellow men how we should be reminded and after His death (see Matthew 16:18–19; and women.4 strengthened to follow it when He Mark 3:14–15; 6:7; Luke 6:13). The In our efforts to rescue and serve, instituted the ordinance of the sacra- Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day we follow our Savior’s unique exam- ment (communion, as others call it). Saints, as the restored Church of Jesus ple and tender teachings about love: We know from modern revelation that Christ, follows this example in its orga- “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as He commanded His followers to par- nization and in its conferral of keys thyself” (Matthew 22:39). He even take of the emblems in remembrance and authority on Apostles. commanded us to love our enemies of Him (see Joseph Smith Translation, Some whom Jesus called to follow (see Luke 6:27–28). And in His great Matthew 26:22 [in Matthew 26:26, Him did not respond immediately but teachings at the end of His mortal footnote c ], 24 [in the Bible appendix]; sought a delay to attend to proper ministry, He said: Joseph Smith Translation, Mark 14:21– family obligations. Jesus replied, “A new commandment I give unto 24 [in the Bible appendix]). Members “No man, having put his hand to the you, That ye love one another; as I of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- plough, and looking back, is fit for the have loved you, that ye also love one day Saints follow that commandment kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). Many another. each week by attending a worship Latter-day Saints practice the priority “By this shall all men know that ye service in which we partake of the Jesus taught. This includes the won- are my disciples, if ye have love one bread and water and covenant that we derful example of thousands of senior to another” ( John 13:34–35).

May 2013 97 church with only a few thousand members, our early leaders sent mis- sionaries across the oceans, east and west. As a people, we have continued to teach the Christian message until today our unique missionary program has more than 60,000 full-time mis- sionaries, plus thousands more who serve part-time. We have missionaries in over 150 countries and territories As part of loving one another, Jesus The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day worldwide. taught that when we are wronged by Saints sends food, clothing, and other As part of His great Sermon on the persons, we should forgive them (see essentials to relieve the suffering of Mount, Jesus taught, “Be ye therefore Matthew 18:21–35; Mark 11:25–26; adults and children all over the world. perfect, even as your Father which is Luke 6:37). While many struggle with These humanitarian donations, totaling in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). this difficult commandment, we all hundreds of millions of dollars in the The purpose of this teaching and the know of inspiring examples of Latter- last decade, are made without any con- purpose of following our Savior is to day Saints who have given loving sideration of religion, race, or nationality. come to the Father, whom our Savior forgiveness, even for the most serious Our massive relief effort follow- referred to as “my Father, and your wrongs. For example, Chris Williams ing the 2011 Japanese earthquake Father; and . . . my God, and your drew upon his faith in Jesus Christ and tsunami provided $13 million in God” ( John 20:17). to forgive the drunken driver who cash and relief supplies. In addition, From modern revelation, unique to caused the death of his wife and two more than 31,000 Church-sponsored the restored gospel, we know that the of their children. Only two days after volunteers gave more than 600,000 commandment to seek perfection is the tragedy and still deeply distraught, hours of service. Our humanitarian part of God the Father’s plan for the this forgiving man, then serving as one assistance to the victims of Hurricane salvation of His children. Under that of our bishops, said, “As a disciple of Sandy in the eastern United States plan we are all heirs of our heav- Christ, I had no other choice.” 5 included large donations of various enly parents. “We are the children of Most Christians give to the poor and resources, plus almost 300,000 hours God,” the Apostle Paul taught, “and the needy, as Jesus taught (see Matthew of service in cleanup efforts by about if children, then heirs; heirs of God, 25:31–46; Mark 14:7). In following this 28,000 Church members. Among and joint-heirs with Christ” (Romans teaching of our Savior, The Church of many other examples last year, we 8:16–17). This means, as we are told Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its provided 300,000 pounds (136,000 kg) in the New Testament, that we are members excel. Our members make of clothing and shoes for the refugees “heirs . . . of eternal life” (Titus 3:7) generous contributions to charities and in the African nation of Chad. During and that if we come to the Father, we give personal service and other gifts the last quarter century we have are to “inherit all things” (Revelation to the poor and needy. In addition, assisted nearly 30 million people in 21:7)—all that He has—a concept our our members fast for two meals each 179 countries.6 Truly, the people called mortal minds can hardly grasp. But at month and donate at least the cost of “Mormons” know how to give to the least we can understand that achiev- these meals as a fast offering, which poor and needy. ing this ultimate destiny in eternity is our bishops and branch presidents In His last biblical teaching, our possible only if we follow our Savior, use to help our needy members. Our Savior directed His followers to take Jesus Christ, who taught that “no man fasting to help the hungry is an act His teachings to every nation and cometh unto the Father, but by me” of charity and, when done with pure every creature. From the beginning of ( John 14:6). We seek to follow Him intent, is a spiritual feast. the Restoration, The Church of Jesus and become more like Him, here Less well known is our Church’s Christ of Latter-day Saints has sought and hereafter. So it is that in the final global humanitarian service. Using to follow that teaching. Even when verses of our hymn “Come, Follow funds donated by generous members, we were a poor and struggling new Me,” we sing: 98 Is it enough alone to know By Elder Christoffel Golden Jr. That we must follow him below, Of the Seventy While trav’ling thru this vale of tears? No, this extends to holier spheres. . . .

For thrones, dominions, kingdoms, pow’rs, The Father and the Son And glory great and bliss are ours, If we, throughout eternity, 7 At the heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ and its power to save Obey his words, “Come, follow me.” is a correct understanding of the Father and the Son. I testify of our Savior, Jesus Christ, whose teachings and example we seek to follow. He invites all of us who are heavy laden to come unto y beloved brothers and sisters, defense of their God and their faith.1 Him, to learn of Him, to follow Him, I am grateful to address you As Latter-day Saints and as and thus to find rest to our souls Mthis afternoon in the setting of Christians, we likewise have a strong (see Matthew 4:19; 11:28). I testify of this inspiring general conference! and deep faith in God the Eternal the truth of His message and of the In addressing a topic that to my Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. divine mission and authority of His mind is most sacred, I wish first to Devotion to God ever remains a restored Church in the name of Jesus acknowledge with gratitude the devo- sacred and personal matter between Christ, amen. ◼ tion of so many Christians throughout each of us and our Maker. NOTES the ages, including my ancestry of Our quest for eternal life is nothing 1. “Come, Follow Me,” Hymns, no. 116. French Protestants and Irish Catholics. other than a quest to understand who 2. See Karen Lynn Davidson, Our Latter-day Because of their faith and worship of God is and for us to return to live with Hymns: The Stories and the Messages (1988), 142–43, 419. God, many of them sacrificed position, Him. The Savior prayed to His Father, 3. “Lord, I Would Follow Thee,” Hymns, possessions, and even their lives in “And this is life eternal, that they might no. 220. 4. See, for example, Heidi S. Swinton, To the Rescue: The Biography of Thomas S. Monson (2010), 149–61; Thomas S. Monson, “To the Rescue,” Ensign, May 2001, 48–50; Liahona, July 2001, 57–60. 5. Chris Williams, in Jessica Henrie, “Father Relies on Faith to Forgive Intoxicated Teen Driver,” Deseret News, Aug. 1, 2012, deseretnews.com/article/865559847/ Let-It-Go-Chris-Williams-shares-his-story- of-tragedy-and-forgiveness.html; see also Chris Williams, Let It Go: A True Story of Tragedy and Forgiveness (2012). 6. See “Emergency Response: Church Assists Worldwide,” Church News, Mar. 9, 2013, 9; Welfare Services Emergency Response, “2012 Year in Review,” 8. 7. Hymns, no. 116.

Short Video Highlight Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf18 to watch or share a short video clip of this message.

May 2013 know thee the only true God, and of Patmos, the Apostle John sees the Every time our Lord refers to His Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” 2 “Lord God Almighty” 6 as well as the Heavenly Father, He does so with the Even in the light of this declaration Lamb of God, who “redeemed us . . . utmost reverence and submissiveness. by our Savior Himself, the prevailing by [His] blood.” 7 In saying this, I hope there will be view of the nature of the Father and In the Book of Mormon, the doc- no misunderstanding. Jesus Christ is the Son throughout the many centu- trine of the Father and the Son stands the great Jehovah, the God of Israel, ries and among much of mankind is in majestic testimony alongside the the promised Messiah, and because clearly inconsistent with the teachings Holy Bible. The Book of Mormon of His infinite Atonement, He is our of the holy scriptures. records the visitation of our Savior to Savior and the Redeemer of the world. We respectfully submit that at the the Nephites, in which the voice of the Of Him the Apostle Paul declared, heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ and Father, in the presence of some 2,500 “Then cometh the end, when [Christ] its power to save is a correct under- Nephites, introduces the risen Christ: shall have delivered up the kingdom standing of the Father and the Son.3 “Behold my Beloved Son, in whom I to God, even the Father; when [Christ] The importance of this most fun- am well pleased, in whom I have glo- shall have put down all rule and all damental principle of the gospel of rified my name—hear ye him.” 8 authority and power.” 12 Jesus Christ is confirmed by the First In the four Gospels, Christ Himself On the eve of the Savior’s Vision of the Prophet Joseph Smith refers to His Father in Heaven 160 Atonement, He offered up His great in 1820. The Prophet wrote: “I saw times, while during His brief three- Intercessory Prayer to His Father. two Personages, whose brightness day ministry among the Nephites, as He prayed: and glory defy all description, stand- recorded in the Book of Mormon, He “Neither pray I for these [in other ing above me in the air. One of them mentions His Father 122 times. words, His Apostles] alone, but for spake unto me, calling me by name For example, in Matthew, Jesus them also which shall believe on me and said, pointing to the other—This says, “Not every one that saith unto through their word; is My Beloved Son. Hear Him! ” 4 me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the “That they all may be one; as thou, This experience by the boy Joseph, kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth Father, art in me, and I in thee, that followed by many other visions and the will of my Father which is in they also may be one in us: that the revelations, reveals that God actually heaven.” 9 world may believe that thou hast exists; the Father and His Son, Jesus In John, He testifies, “The Son can sent me. Christ, are two separate and distinct do nothing of himself, but what he “And the glory which thou gavest beings; man is created in the image of seeth the Father do.” 10 me I have given them; that they may God; our Heavenly Father is literally And in Luke, He exclaims, “Father, be one, even as we are one.” 13 the Father of Jesus Christ; God contin- into thy hands I commend my spirit.” 11 The Father and the Son are dis- ues to reveal Himself to man; God is tinctly separate beings, but They are ever near and interested in us; and He perfectly united and one in power and answers our prayers. purpose. Their oneness is not reserved Even though similar appearances of for Them alone; rather, They desire the Father and the Son in holy writ are this same oneness for everyone who relatively rare, the remarkable fact of will, with devotion, follow and obey the First Vision is that it agrees so well Their commandments. with other recorded events in the holy How is the earnest seeker of God scriptures. able to become acquainted with the In the New Testament, for exam- Father and the Son? Our Savior prom- ple, we read of Stephen’s final ised, “But the Comforter, which is the testimony at his martyrdom. Said he, Holy Ghost, . . . shall teach you all “Behold, I see the heavens opened, things.” 14 and the Son of man standing on the In the Book of Mormon, Nephi, right hand of God.” 5 when speaking of the doctrine of While in mighty vision on the Isle Christ, declared that the Holy Ghost 100 “witnesses of the Father and the Son.” 15 of the eternal family. Every human to 1500, rev. ed. (1975) and A History of It is true that the power or influ- being has existed previously as a spirit Christianity, Volume 2: Reformation to the 19 Present, rev. ed. (1975); see also Diarmaid ence of the Holy Ghost may on child with heavenly parents, with MacCulloch, The Reformation (2003). occasion be felt, according to the will Christ being the Firstborn of the Father 2. John 17:3. of the Lord, by any person irrespective in this heavenly family.20 3. See Lectures on Faith (1985), 38–44. 4. Joseph Smith—History 1:17. of that person’s religious persuasion. So it is with all of us. We are the 5. Acts 7:56. But the full measure, or gift, of the children of our Heavenly Father. 6. Revelation 4:8. Holy Ghost comes only after a person President Ezra Taft Benson with 7. Revelation 5:9. 8. 3 Nephi 11:7. has received, with “a broken heart prophetic insight said, “Nothing is 9. Matthew 7:21; emphasis added. and a contrite spirit,” 16 the ordinances going to startle us more when we 10. John 5:19; emphasis added. of baptism and the gift of the Holy pass through the veil to the other side 11. Luke 23:46; emphasis added. 17 12. 1 Corinthians 15:24. For further Ghost by the laying on of hands. than to realize how well we know our understanding of the Savior and His These and other sacred ordinances Father [in Heaven] and how familiar mission, see “The Living Christ: The may be performed only under the his face is to us.” 21 Testimony of the Apostles,” Ensign or Liahona, Apr. 2000, 2–3. direction and power of the priesthood I have learned that it is not possible 13. John 17:20–22; emphasis added. of God. In this regard, we are taught: to convey in the language of man those 14. John 14:26. “And this greater priesthood things which are made known only by 15. 2 Nephi 31:18. 16. 3 Nephi 9:20; Moroni 6:2. administereth the gospel and holdeth the Holy Ghost and power of God. It 17. See John 3:5; 3 Nephi 11:31–38. the key of the mysteries of the king- is in this spirit that I bear my solemn 18. Doctrine and Covenants 84:19–20. dom, even the key of the knowledge witness and testimony of the reality, 19. See “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 129. of God. nearness, and goodness of our Eternal 20. See Colossians 1:15; Doctrine and “Therefore, in the ordinances Father and His holy Son, Jesus Christ. Covenants 93:21. thereof, the power of godliness is In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 21. Ezra Taft Benson, “Jesus Christ—Gifts and manifest.” 18 Expectations,” in Speeches of the Year, 1974 NOTES (1975), 313; see also “Jesus Christ—Gifts Seen in its true light, the doctrine of 1. See Kenneth Scott Latourette, A History and Expectations,” Ensign, Dec. 1988, 6; the Father and the Son is the doctrine of Christianity, Volume 1: Beginnings Tambuli, May 1977, 24.

May 2013 101 By Elder Enrique R. Falabella 2. To Contend, You Need Two People Of the Seventy One of my wife’s mottoes has been “In order to contend, you need two people, and I will never be one of them.” The Lord has clearly described the The Home: attributes which should guide our dealings with other people. These are persuasion, long-suffering, gentleness, The School of Life meekness, and love unfeigned.2 Physical abuse in the family is a practice that is occurring less often Lessons are learned in a home—the place that can in certain societies, and we rejoice in become a piece of heaven here on earth. that. However, we are still far from eliminating emotional abuse. The harm caused by this form of abuse dwells in our memory, it wounds ome parents excuse themselves officer pronounced the words “And our personality, it sows hatred in our for mistakes they have made at now I declare you husband and wife,” hearts, it lowers our self-esteem, and Shome, stating that the reason for but immediately after, he said, “until it fills us with fear. this is that there is not a school for death do you part.” Participating in the ceremony of parenting. So with sacrifice we set out to celestial marriage is not enough. We In reality, such a school does exist purchase a one-way ticket to the Mesa also have to live a celestial life. and it can be the best of all. This Arizona Temple. school is called home. In the temple, as we were kneeling 3. A Child Who Sings Is a Happy Child As I travel back to the past on the down at the altar, an authorized ser- This is another motto my wife men- wings of my memory, I recall cher- vant pronounced the words I longed tions frequently. ished moments I have experienced for, which declared us husband and The Savior understood the impor- with my wife. As I share these memo- wife for time and for all eternity. tance of sacred music. After He ries with you, you may recall experi- A friend took us to Sunday School. observed Passover with His disciples, ences of your own—both happy and During the meeting he stood up and the scriptures relate, “And when they sad; we learn from them all. introduced us to the class. As the had sung an hymn, they went out into meeting came to a close, a brother the mount of Olives.” 3 1. The Temple Is the Place approached me and shook my hand, And speaking through the Prophet When I returned from my mis- leaving a 20-dollar bill in it. Soon after, Joseph, He said, “For my soul delight- sion, I met a beautiful young woman another brother reached out to me as eth in the song of the heart; yea, the with long black hair down to her well, and to my surprise, he also left song of the righteous is a prayer unto waist. She had beautiful, big honey a bill in my hand. I quickly looked for me, and it shall be answered with a eyes and a contagious smile. She my wife, who was across the room, blessing upon their heads.” 4 captivated me from the first moment and shouted, “Blanquy, shake hands How touching it is to hear the song I saw her. with everyone!” of a little one who has been taught My wife had set the goal to get Soon we had gathered enough by his or her parents to sing, “I am a married in the temple, although back money to return to Guatemala. child of God.” 5 then the nearest temple required a trip “In the celestial glory there are of over 4,000 miles (6,400 km). three heavens or degrees; 4. I Need You to Hug Me Our civil marriage ceremony was “And in order to obtain the highest, The words “I love you,” “Thank you both happy and sad, for we were a man must enter into this order of the very much,” and “Forgive me” are like married with an expiration date. The priesthood.” 1 a balm for the soul. They transform 102 her countenance as she reads over the passages that testify of the mission of the Savior. How wise are the words of our Savior: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” 7 Inspired by this, I asked my grand­ child Raquel, who had recently learned how to read, “What would you say about setting a goal to read the Book of Mormon?” Her answer was “But, Grandpa, it’s so hard. It’s a big book.” Then I asked her to read me a page. I took out a stopwatch and timed her. I said, “You took only three minutes, and the Spanish version of the Book of Mormon has 642 pages, so you need 1,926 minutes.” This could have scared her even more, so I divided that number by 60 minutes and told her she would need only 32 hours to read it—less than a day and a half! Then she said to me, “That’s so easy, Grandpa.” In the end, Raquel, her brother, tears into happiness. They provide practices continue once our home is Esteban, and our other grandchildren comfort to the weighed-down soul, established. One of the recent text took more time than this because this and they confirm the tender feelings messages I received from my wife is a book which needs to be read with of our heart. Just as plants wither with reads like this: “A hug like heaven, a a spirit of prayer and meditation. the lack of precious water, our love kiss like the sun, and an evening like With time, as we learn to delight in languishes and dies as we put to rest the moon. Happy day, I love you.” the scriptures, we shall exclaim as the the words and acts of love. I cannot resist feeling like I am in Psalmist: “How sweet are thy words I remember the days when we used heaven when I get a message like this. unto my taste! yea, sweeter than to send love letters through standard Our Father in Heaven is a perfect honey to my mouth!” 8 post or how we collected a few coins example of expressing love. As He to call our loved ones from a phone presented His Son, He used the words 6. It Is Not Enough to Know the booth or how we would draw and “This is my beloved Son, in whom I Scriptures; We Have to Live Them write love poems on plain paper. am well pleased.” 6 I remember when I was a returned Today all of this sounds like missionary, and having searched the museum material! 5. I Love the Book of Mormon and My scriptures diligently, I thought I knew Technology in this day and age Savior, Jesus Christ it all. During our courtship, Blanquy allows us to do wonders. How easy I am filled with emotion when I see and I would study the scriptures it is to send a text message of love my wife read the Book of Mormon together. I used many of my notes and and gratitude! Youth do it all the time. every day. As she does so, I can feel references to share my knowledge of I wonder if this and other beautiful her testimony just by seeing the joy in the gospel with her. After we married

May 2013 103 I came to a serious realization as I By Elder Erich W. Kopischke learned a great lesson from her: I may Of the Seventy have tried to teach her the gospel, but she taught me how to live it. When the Savior concluded the Sermon on the Mount, He gave this wise counsel: “Therefore whosoever Being Accepted heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon 9 of the Lord a rock.” Those who live the celestial princi- ples found in the scriptures give com- Seeking and receiving the acceptance of the Lord will lead fort to those who suffer. They bring joy to the knowledge that we are chosen and blessed by Him. to those who are depressed, direction to those who are lost, peace to those who are distressed, and a sure guid- ance to those who seek the truth. hen I was a boy, I remem- of self-worth and self-confidence. In summary: ber my father sometimes Those who cannot find acceptance Wtaking me with him to work from desirable sources often seek it 1. The temple is the place. on projects. We had a little garden a elsewhere. They may look to people 2. To contend, you need two people, few kilometers from where we lived, who are not interested in their well- and I will never be one of them. and there was always so much to do being. They may attach themselves 3. A child who sings is a happy child. to prepare the garden each season. to false friends and do questionable 4. I need you to hug me. We worked on the gazebo or built or things to try to receive the acknowl- 5. I love the Book of Mormon and my repaired fences. In my memory this edgment they are seeking. They may Savior, Jesus Christ. work always occurred in the freezing seek acceptance by wearing a par- 6. It is not enough to know the scrip- cold, heavy snow, or pouring rain. But ticular brand of clothing to generate tures; we have to live them. I loved it. My father would teach me a feeling of belonging or status. For how to do things with patience and some, striving for a role or a position These and many other lessons are acceptance. of prominence can also be a way of learned in a home—the place that can One day he invited me to tighten seeking acceptance. They may define become a piece of heaven here on a screw and warned, “Remember, if their worth by a position they hold or earth.10 I testify that the gospel of Jesus you put it in too tight, it will break.” status they obtain. Christ and the plan of our Heavenly Proudly, I wanted to show him what I Even in the Church we are not Father provide a sure direction in this could do. I tightened with all my might, always free from this type of thinking. life and the promise of eternal life, in and, of course, I broke the screw. Seeking acceptance from the wrong the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ He made a funny comment, and we sources or for incorrect reasons puts NOTES started over. Even when I “messed up,” us on a dangerous path—one that is 1. Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–2. I always felt his love and confidence likely to lead us astray and even to 2. See Doctrine and Covenants 121:41. 3. Mark 14:26. in me. He passed away more than 10 destruction. Instead of feeling cher- 4. Doctrine and Covenants 25:12. years ago, but I can still hear his voice, ished and self-confident, we will even- 5. “I Am a Child of God,” Hymns, no. 301. sense his love, enjoy his encourage- tually feel abandoned and inferior. 6. Matthew 3:17; see also Mark 1:11; 3 Nephi 11:7. ment, and feel his acceptance. Alma counseled his son Helaman, 7. John 5:39. The feeling of being accepted by “See that ye look to God and live.” 1 8. Psalm 119:103. someone we love is a basic human The ultimate source of empowerment 9. Matthew 7:24. 10. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: need. Being accepted by good people and lasting acceptance is our Heavenly David O. McKay (2003), 43, 150. motivates us. It increases our sense Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. They 104 know us. They love us. They do not accept us because of our title or posi- tion. They do not look at our status. They look into our hearts. They accept us for who we are and what we are striving to become. Seeking and receiving acceptance from Them will always lift and encourage us. I will share a simple pattern which, if applied, can help every one of us find ultimate acceptance. This pattern was given by the Lord through the Prophet Joseph Smith: “Verily I say unto you, all among them who know their hearts are honest, and are bro- ken, and their spirits contrite, and are willing to observe their covenants by sacrifice—yea, every sacrifice which I, the Lord, shall command—they are accepted of me.” 2 This pattern consists of three sim- heart. If I open this door to Him, I am willing to pray, “Not my will, but thine, ple steps: more responsive to the invitations of be done.” 7 the Spirit, and I am more accepting of The third step to being accepted 1. Know that our hearts are honest God’s will. by the Lord is a conscious decision to and broken, As we sincerely and prayerfully observe our covenants through sacri- 2. Know that our spirits are contrite, ponder the extent to which our hearts fice, “yea, every sacrifice which I, the and are honest and broken, we will be Lord, shall command.” 8 Too often we 3. Be willing to observe our cov- taught by the Holy Ghost. We will think that the word sacrifice refers to enants by sacrifice, as commanded receive a sweet confirmation or gentle something big or hard for us to do. In by the Lord. correction, inviting us to act. certain situations this may be true, but Second, we have to know that our mostly it refers to living day-to-day as First, we need to know that our spirit is contrite. The word contrite a true disciple of Christ. hearts are honest and broken. How do in the Oxford dictionary is defined One way we observe our cov- we know that? We begin by engaging as “feeling or expressing remorse at enants by sacrifice is worthily par- in sincere self-reflection. The heart is the recognition that one has done taking of the sacrament each week. the center of our feelings. As we look wrong.” 4 If we have a contrite spirit, We consciously prepare ourselves for into our hearts, we screen ourselves. we acknowledge our sins and short- the sacred ordinance. We renew and What no one around us knows, we comings. We are teachable “con- confirm our sacred promises to the surely know. We know our motives cerning [all] things pertaining to Lord. In this way we feel His accep- and desires. When we engage in righteousness.” 5 We feel godly sorrow tance and receive His assurance that sincere, honest reflection, we do not and are willing to repent. A contrite our efforts are recognized and our sins rationalize or deceive ourselves. spirit is willing to listen “to the entic- are forgiven through the Atonement There is also a way to judge if our ings of the Holy Spirit.” 6 of Jesus Christ. During this ordinance, hearts are broken. A broken heart is A contrite spirit is manifest by our the Lord promises us that as we are a soft, an open, and a receptive heart. willingness and determination to act. willing to take upon us the name of When I hear the Savior say, “Behold, We are willing to humble ourselves His Son and always remember Him I stand at the door, and knock,” 3 I before God, willing to repent, willing and keep His commandments, we will hear Him knocking at the door of my to learn, and willing to change. We are always have His Spirit to be with us.

May 2013 105 Having the Holy Ghost as our constant families as we seek His acceptance. out, we will come to know that we companion is the ultimate indicator of He said, “For I, the Lord, will cause are accepted of Him, regardless of being accepted of God. them to bring forth as a very fruitful our position, status, or mortal limi- Other ways to observe our cov- tree which is planted in a goodly tations. His loving acceptance will enants by sacrifice are as simple as land, by a pure stream, that yieldeth motivate us, increase our faith, and accepting a calling in the Church much precious fruit.” 9 help us deal with everything we face and faithfully serving in that calling As we are personally in tune with in life. Despite our challenges, we will or following the invitation of our the Spirit of the Lord and feel His be successful, prosper,11 and feel at prophet, Thomas S. Monson, to reach acceptance, we will be blessed above peace.12 We will be among those to out to those who are standing at the our understanding and bring forth whom the Lord said: wayside and need to be spiritually many fruits of righteousness. We will “Fear not, little children, for you are rescued. We observe our covenants be among those to whom He has said, mine, and I have overcome the world, by sacrifice by giving silent service in “Well done, thou good and faithful and you are of them that my Father our neighborhood or community or servant: thou hast been faithful over a hath given me; by finding the names of our ancestors few things, I will make thee ruler over “And none of them that my Father and doing temple work for them. We many things: enter thou into the joy of hath given me shall be lost.” 13 observe our covenants by sacrifice thy lord.” 10 In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ by simply striving for righteousness, Seeking and receiving the accep- NOTES being open, and listening to the tance of the Lord will lead to the 1. Alma 37:47. promptings of the Spirit as we live knowledge that we are chosen 2. Doctrine and Covenants 97:8. our daily lives. Sometimes observing and blessed by Him. We will gain 3. Revelation 3:20. 4. Oxford Dictionaries Online, “contrite,” our covenants means nothing more increased confidence that He will lead oxforddictionaries.com. than standing firmly and faithfully us and direct us for good. His tender 5. Alma 21:23. when the storms of life are raging all mercies will become evident in our 6. Mosiah 3:19. 7. Luke 22:42. around us. hearts, in our lives, and in our families. 8. Doctrine and Covenants 97:8. After explaining the pattern of With all my heart I invite you to 9. Doctrine and Covenants 97:9. how to be accepted by Him, the Lord seek the Lord’s acceptance and enjoy 10. Matthew 25:21. 11. See Mosiah 2:22. uses a wonderful illustration to show His promised blessings. As we follow 12. See Mosiah 2:41. how we profit as individuals and the simple pattern the Lord has laid 13. Doctrine and Covenants 50:41–42. 106 By Elder Bruce D. Porter I the Lord am with you, and will stand Of the Seventy by you” (D&C 68:6). The Lord will stand by His Church and people and keep them in safety until His coming. There will be peace in Zion and in her stakes, for He Beautiful Mornings has proclaimed “that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and We need not fear the future, nor falter in hope upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and and good cheer, because God is with us. from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth” (D&C 115:6). The Church stands as a bulwark n a Thursday evening in courage and extend their faith. But of safety for its members. Though Jerusalem, Jesus met with His if they seek prayerfully for help and conditions in the world may become Odisciples in an upper room guidance, they shall be given power very vexing at times, faithful Latter-day to observe Passover. The men who over adverse things.” Saints will find sanctuary in the stakes joined Him did not know that this And later he added: “The moral of Zion. The Lord has decreed that the meal would someday be called the values upon which civilization itself stone cut out of the mountain without Last Supper. Had they known this and must depend spiral downward at an hands shall roll forth until it has filled what it meant, they would have wept. ever-increasing pace. Nevertheless, I the whole earth (see Daniel 2:31–45; Their Master, however, perfectly do not fear the future” (“Do Not Fear,” D&C 65:2). And no human power can understood that the ordeal of Geth­ Ensign or Liahona, May 2004, 77, 78). stay its course, for God is the author of semane and of Golgotha would shortly Brothers and sisters, we need not this work and Jesus Christ is the chief begin. The darkest hours in the history fear the future, nor falter in hope and cornerstone. of the world were imminent; neverthe­ good cheer, because God is with us. The prophet Nephi beheld in vision less, Jesus said to them, “In the world Among the first recorded words of that in the last days, the power of the ye shall have tribulation: but be of counsel that Jesus gave to His newly Lamb of God would descend “upon good cheer; I have overcome the called disciples in Galilee was the the covenant people of the Lord” and world” ( John 16:33). two-word admonition, “Fear not” they would be “armed with righteous- We live today in an era of tur- (Luke 5:10). He repeated that counsel ness and with the power of God in bulence and uncertainty, a time the many times during His ministry. To His great glory” (1 Nephi 14:14). Lord prophesied to Enoch would be Saints in our day, the Savior has said, Every one of us, and our families, marked by “days of wickedness and “Be of good cheer, and do not fear, for can be armed with the power of God vengeance” (Moses 7:60). Tribulation and difficult times may lie ahead, yet we too have cause for good cheer and rejoicing, for we live in the last dis- pensation, when God has restored His Church and kingdom to the earth in preparation for the return of His Son. President Boyd K. Packer once spoke of his grandchildren and the increasingly troubled world in which they live. He said: “They will see many events transpire in the course of their lifetime. Some of these shall tax their

May 2013 107 way” (see Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” [1943]). In the intervening years, that bright voice in a dark storm has become for me a symbol of what faith and hope are all about. Even in a darkening world, we as Latter-day Saints may sing with joy, knowing that the pow- ers of heaven are with God’s Church and people. We may rejoice in the knowledge that a beautiful morning lies ahead—the dawn of the millen- as a defense if we will but remain remember him, a few years before he nial day, when the Son of God shall true to The Church of Jesus Christ of died, holding high the Olympic torch rise in the East and reign again on Latter-day Saints and let the Spirit be while riding in his wheelchair as hun- the earth. our guide. Trials may come, and we dreds cheered. Like that ever-burning I think also of two other beautiful may not understand everything that flame, Paul’s faith never dimmed in mornings in the history of the world. happens to us or around us. But if we the storm of life. In the spring of 1820, on the morning humbly, quietly trust in the Lord, He When I was a student at Brigham of a beautiful, clear day in Palmyra, will give us strength and guidance in Young University, I lived in a house New York, a young man named every challenge we face. When our with several young men. My room- Joseph Smith entered a grove of trees only desire is to please Him, we will mate, Bruce, was the most optimistic and knelt in prayer. The answer to that be blessed with a deep inner peace. person I have ever known. We never prayer, the appearance of the Father In the early days of the Restoration, once heard him say anything negative and the Son, ushered in the dispen- the members of the Church faced about any person or any circumstance, sation of the fulness of times and the severe trials. President Brigham Young and it was impossible not to feel Restoration of the Church of Jesus said of that time: “When surrounded buoyed up in his presence. His good Christ to the earth. by mobs, with death and destruction cheer flowed from an abiding trust in And yet another beautiful morning threatening on every hand, I am not the Savior and in His gospel. dawned nearly 2,000 years ago just aware but that I felt just as joyful One cold, wintry day, another outside the city wall of Jerusalem. [and] well in my spirits, as I do now. friend of mine, Tom, was walking The sun no doubt shone with excep- Prospects might appear dull and very across the university campus. It was tional radiance that Easter morning. dark, but I have never seen a time in only 7:00 in the morning, and the A small company of women had this Gospel but what I knew that the campus was deserted and dark. come to visit a garden tomb, hoping result would be beneficial to the cause Heavy snow was falling, with a brisk to anoint the body of their crucified of truth” (Teachings of Presidents of the wind. “What miserable weather,” Tom Lord. Two angels met them and Church: Brigham Young [1997], 357). thought. He walked farther, and out declared: “Why seek ye the living My missionary companion, Paul, in the darkness and snow, he heard among the dead? He is not here, but was someone who always radiated someone singing. is risen” (Luke 24:5–6). good cheer. As a young father, he was Sure enough, through the driving Of the triumph of Jesus Christ over stricken with multiple sclerosis. Yet snow came our ever-optimistic friend, sin and death, I bear witness. Of the despite the adversity that followed, Bruce. With his arms outstretched to merciful plan of our Eternal Father he continued serving others with joy the sky, he was singing a number from and His everlasting love, I testify. As and good humor. He once entered the Broadway musical Oklahoma: we rise up each morning, may we my office seated in his first wheel- “Oh, what a beautiful morning! Oh, look to heaven in faith and say, “Oh, chair and declared, “Life begins with what a beautiful day! I’ve got a beau- what a beautiful morning,” I pray in a motorized wheelchair!” I will always tiful feeling, everything’s going my the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 108 By Elder D. Todd Christofferson spiritual death is the separation of man Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles from God. In the words of Paul, “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive” (1 Corinthians 15:22). This redemption from physical and spiritual death is both universal Redemption and without condition.3 The second aspect of the Savior’s Inasmuch as we follow Christ, we seek to participate in Atonement is redemption from what might be termed the indirect conse- and further His redemptive work. quences of the Fall—our own sins as opposed to Adam’s transgression. By virtue of the Fall, we are born into a mortal world where sin—that is, n colonial times, labor was in great facets of the great Redemption accom- disobedience to divinely instituted demand in America. During the 18th plished by Jesus Christ through His law—is pervasive. Speaking of all of Iand early 19th centuries, potential Atonement, which includes, in the us, the Lord says: immigrant laborers were recruited words of the dictionary, “to deliver “Even so when they begin to grow in Great Britain, Germany, and other from sin and its penalties, as by a sac- up, sin conceiveth in their hearts, and European countries, but many who rifice made for the sinner.” 2 they taste the bitter, that they may were willing to go could not afford the The Savior’s Redemption has two know to prize the good. cost of travel. It was not uncommon parts. First, it atones for Adam’s trans- “And it is given unto them to for these to travel under an indenture gression and the consequent Fall of know good from evil; wherefore they or contract, promising to work after man by overcoming what could be are agents unto themselves” (Moses their arrival for a certain period of called the direct effects of the Fall— 6:55–56). time without wages as payment for physical death and spiritual death. Because we are accountable and their passage. Others came with the Physical death is well understood; we make the choices, the redemption promise that family members already in America would pay their fare upon arrival, but if that didn’t happen, the newcomers were obliged to pay their own costs through indentured service. The term used to describe these indentured immigrants was “redemp- tioners.” They had to redeem the cost of their passage—in a sense, purchase their freedom—by their labor.1 Among the most significant of Jesus Christ’s descriptive titles is Redeemer. As indicated in my brief account of immigrant “redemptioners,” the word redeem means to pay off an obligation or a debt. Redeem can also mean to rescue or set free as by paying a ran- som. If someone commits a mistake and then corrects it or makes amends, we say he has redeemed himself. Each of these meanings suggests different

May 2013 109 So may we, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, go about doing good in the redemptive pattern of the Master. This kind of redemptive work means helping people with their problems. It means befriending the poor and the weak, alleviating suffer- ing, righting wrongs, defending truth, strengthening the rising generation, and achieving security and happiness at home. Much of our redemptive work on earth is to help others grow from our own sins is conditional— and eternal life in the world to come. and achieve their just hopes and conditioned on confessing and The work of our missionaries is a aspirations. abandoning sin and turning to a godly magnificent expression of the Lord’s An example from Victor Hugo’s life, or in other words, conditioned redeeming love. As His authorized novel Les Misérables, though fictional, on repentance (see D&C 58:43). messengers, they offer the incompa- has always touched and inspired “Wherefore,” commands the Lord, rable blessings of faith in Jesus Christ, me. Near the beginning of the story, “teach it unto your children, that all repentance, baptism, and the gift of Bishop Bienvenu gives food and men, everywhere, must repent, or the Holy Ghost, opening the way to overnight shelter to the homeless Jean they can in nowise inherit the king- spiritual rebirth and redemption. Valjean, who has just been released dom of God, for no unclean thing can We can also assist in the Lord’s from 19 years in prison for having dwell there, or dwell in his presence” redemption of those beyond the stolen a loaf of bread to feed his sis- (Moses 6:57). grave. “The faithful elders of this ter’s starving children. Hardened and The Savior’s suffering in dispensation, when they depart from embittered, Valjean rewards Bishop Gethsemane and His agony on the mortal life, continue their labors in the Bienvenu’s kindness by stealing cross redeem us from sin by satisfying preaching of the gospel of repentance his silver goods. Later detained by the demands that justice has upon and redemption, through the sacrifice suspicious gendarmes, Valjean falsely us. He extends mercy and pardons of the Only Begotten Son of God, claims the silver was a gift to him. those who repent. The Atonement among those who are in darkness and When the gendarmes drag him back also satisfies the debt justice owes to under the bondage of sin in the great to the bishop’s house, to Valjean’s us by healing and compensating us for world of the spirits of the dead” (D&C great surprise, Bishop Bienvenu any suffering we innocently endure. 138:57). With the benefit of vicarious confirms his story and for good effect “For behold, he suffereth the pains rites we offer them in the temples of says, “‘But! I gave you the candlesticks of all men, yea, the pains of every God, even those who died in bondage also, which are silver like the rest, and living creature, both men, women, and to sin can be freed.5 would bring two hundred francs. Why children, who belong to the family of While the most important aspects did you not take them along with your Adam” (2 Nephi 9:21; see also Alma of redemption have to do with repen- plates?’ . . . 7:11–12).4 tance and forgiveness, there is a very “The bishop approached him, and Inasmuch as we follow Christ, significant temporal aspect as well. said, in a low voice: we seek to participate in and further Jesus is said to have gone about doing “‘Forget not, never forget that you His redemptive work. The greatest good (see Acts 10:38), which included have promised me to use this silver to service we can provide to others in healing the sick and infirm, supplying become an honest man.’ this life, beginning with those of our food to hungry multitudes, and teach- “Jean Valjean, who had no recol- own family, is to bring them to Christ ing a more excellent way. “The Son of lection of this promise, stood con- through faith and repentance so they man came not to be ministered unto, founded. The bishop . . . continued, may experience His Redemption— but to minister, and to give his life a solemnly: peace and joy now and immortality ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). “‘Jean Valjean, my brother: you 110 belong no longer to evil, but to good. Because of our humanitarian were young, my mother underwent It is your soul that I am buying for efforts, mentioned by Elder Dallin H. a serious operation that nearly took you. I withdraw it from dark thoughts Oaks, specifically this past year, her life and left her bedridden much and from the spirit of perdition, and I 890,000 people in 36 countries have of the time for nearly a year. During give it to God!’” clean water, 70,000 people in 57 coun- this time, family and ward mem- Jean Valjean indeed became a new tries have wheelchairs, 75,000 people bers helped Mother and our family. man, an honest man and a benefactor in 25 countries have improved vision, For additional help, the ward Relief to many. Throughout his life he kept and people in 52 countries received Society president, Sister Abraham, the two silver candlesticks to remind aid following natural disasters. Acting recommended that my parents hire a him that his life had been redeemed with others, the Church has helped woman in the ward who desperately for God.6 immunize some 8 million children and needed work. In recounting this story, Some forms of temporal redemp- has helped Syrians in refugee camps I will use the fictional names Sara and tion come by collaborative effort. It is in Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan with Annie for this woman and her daugh- one of the reasons the Savior created the necessities of life. At the same ter. This is my mother’s account: a church. Being organized in quorums time, members of the Church in need “I can see it as plain as if it were and auxiliaries and in stakes, wards, received millions of dollars in fast- only yesterday. There I lay in bed, and and branches, we can not only teach offering and other welfare assistance Sister Abraham brought Sara to the and encourage each other in the during 2012. Thank you for your bedroom door. My heart sank. There gospel, but we can also bring to bear generosity. stood the least attractive person I had people and resources to deal with the All of this does not begin to count ever met—so thin; scraggly, unkempt exigencies of life. People acting alone the individual acts of kindness and hair; round-shouldered; head bowed or in ad hoc groups cannot always support—gifts of food, clothing, looking at the floor. She wore an old provide means on a scale needed to money, care, and a thousand other housedress four sizes too big. She address larger challenges. As followers forms of comfort and compassion— wouldn’t look up and spoke so softly of Jesus Christ we are a community by which we may participate in the I couldn’t hear her. Hiding behind of Saints organized to help redeem Christlike work of redemption. As a her was a little girl about three years the needs of our fellow Saints and as boy I witnessed my own mother’s old. What in the world was I to do many others as we can reach across actions to redeem a woman in need. with this creature? After they left the the globe. Many years ago when her children room, I cried and cried. I needed help,

May 2013 111 her high school diploma. She went to unclean cannot dwell with a holy God, and night school and later graduated from after the Judgment they must depart and thereby suffer spiritual death again. This college and taught special education. is sometimes referred to as a second death She bought a little home. Annie was or suffering spiritual death a second time. married in the temple and had two (See Helaman 14:15–18.) 4. It is with respect to our own sins that the children. Sara eventually had some scriptures speak of some not receiving the operations on her ears and was finally benefit of redemption: “The wicked remain able to hear well. Years later she as though there had been no redemption made, except it be the loosing of the bands retired and served a mission. . . . Sara of death” (Alma 11:41). “He that exercises not more problems. Sister Abraham thanked us often and said she learned no faith unto repentance is exposed to stayed awhile with her, and they soon so much from me, especially when the whole law of the demands of justice; therefore only unto him that has faith unto whipped the house into shape and I told her that my sons were more repentance is brought about the great and prepared some good meals. Sister important than the house. She said it eternal plan of redemption” (Alma 34:16). Abraham asked me to try it for a few taught her to be that way with Annie. If a man rejects the Savior’s Atonement, he must redeem his debt to justice himself. days, [saying] that this girl had had a . . . Sara is a very special woman.” Jesus said, “For behold, I, God, have really hard time and needed help. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we suffered these things for all, that they might “The next morning when Sara ought to do all we can to redeem oth- not suffer if they would repent; but if they would not repent they must suffer even as came, I finally got her to come over ers from suffering and burdens. Even I” (Doctine and Covenants 19:16–17). An by the bed where I could hear her. so, our greatest redemptive service will unredeemed individual’s suffering for sin is known as hell. It means being subject She asked what I wanted her to do. I be to lead them to Christ. Without His to the devil and is described in scriptural told her and then said, ‘But the most Redemption from death and from sin, metaphors as being in chains or a lake of important thing is my boys; spend we have only a gospel of social justice. fire and brimstone. Lehi begged his sons to choose Christ’s Redemption “and not time with them, read to them—they That may provide some help and rec- choose eternal death, according to the will are more important than the house.’ onciliation in the present, but it has no of the flesh and the evil which is therein, She was a good cook and kept the power to draw down from heaven per- which giveth the spirit of the devil power to captivate, to bring you down to hell, house clean, the washing done, and fect justice and infinite mercy. Ultimate that he may reign over you in his own she was good to the boys. redemption is in Jesus Christ and in kingdom” (2 Nephi 2:29). Even so, because “Through the weeks, I learned Him alone. I humbly and gratefully of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, hell has an end, and those who are obliged to pass Sara’s story. [Because she was hard of acknowledge Him as the Redeemer through it are “redeemed from the devil hearing, she didn’t do well in school in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ [in] the last resurrection” (Doctrine and and eventually dropped out. She mar- Covenants 76:85). The relatively few “sons NOTES of perdition” are “the only ones on whom ried young to a dissolute man. Annie 1. See Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate the second death shall have any [lasting] was born and became the joy of Sara’s Dictionary, 10th ed. (1993), power; yea, verily, the only ones who shall life. One winter night her husband “redemptioner.” not be redeemed in the due time of the 2. Webster’s New World College Dictionary, Lord, after the sufferings of his wrath” came home drunk, forced Sara and 3rd ed. (1988), “redeem.” (Doctrine and Covenants 76:32, 37–38). Annie into the car in their bedclothes, 3. “The Son of God hath atoned for original 5. The Prophet Joseph Smith exulted, “Let and then dropped them off by the guilt, wherein the sins of the parents the dead speak forth anthems of eternal cannot be answered upon the heads of praise to the King Immanuel, who hath side of the highway. They never saw the children, for they are whole from the ordained, before the world was, that which him again. Barefoot and freezing, Sara foundation of the world” (Moses 6:54). By would enable us to redeem them out of and Annie walked several miles to her the Redemption of Christ, all overcome the their prison; for the prisoners shall go free” grave and are resurrected to immortality. (Doctrine and Covenants 128:22). mother’s home.] Her mother agreed In addition, all overcome spiritual death 6. See Victor Hugo, Les Misérables (1992), to let them stay in exchange for doing by being brought back into the presence 91–92. all the housework and cooking, and of God to be judged. Jesus said, “As I have been lifted up [upon the cross] by men caring for her sister and brother who even so should men be lifted up by the were in high school. Father, to stand before me, to be judged Short Video Highlight “We took Sara to an ear doctor, and of their works” (3 Nephi 27:14). Those Scan this QR code or visit who are cleansed from sin will remain lds.org/go/Apr13Conf19 to she got a hearing aid. . . . We got her with God in the heavenly kingdom, but watch or share a short video to take adult schooling, and she got those who have not repented and are clip of this message. 112 Tabernacle Choir and thank all others By President Thomas S. Monson who provided music as well. We join together in expressing our gratitude to those of the presidency and board of the general Young Women, who were released yesterday. Until We Meet Again Their service has been outstanding and their dedication complete. I pray that the Lord will bless and keep you, my brothers and We have sustained, by uplifted hands, brethren and sisters who have sisters. May His promised peace be with you now and always. been called to new positions during this conference. We want all of them to know that we look forward to serving with them in the cause of the y brothers and sisters, what heard these past two days. I urge you Master. a glorious conference we to study the messages further when We are a worldwide Church, Mhave had. I know you will they are printed in coming issues of brothers and sisters. Our membership agree with me that the messages have the Ensign and Liahona magazines. is found across the globe. I admonish been inspiring. Our hearts have been We express our gratitude to each you to be good citizens of the nations touched, and our testimonies of this one who has spoken to us, as well as in which you live and good neighbors divine work have been strengthened to those who have offered prayers. In in your communities, reaching out to as we have felt the Spirit of the Lord. addition, the music has been uplifting those of other faiths as well as to our May we long remember what we have and inspiring. We love our wonderful own. May we be tolerant of, as well as

May 2013 113 kind and loving to, those who do not difficulties, whatever they may be. filled with peace, harmony, courtesy, share our beliefs and our standards. The Psalmist provided this assurance: and love. May they be filled with the The Savior brought to this earth a “Weeping may endure for a night, but Spirit of the Lord. May you nurture message of love and goodwill to all joy cometh in the morning.” 1 and nourish your testimonies of the men and women. May we ever follow My brothers and sisters, I want gospel, that they will be a protection His example. you to know how grateful I am for to you against the buffetings of Satan. I pray that we may be aware of the the gospel of Jesus Christ, restored in Until we meet again in six months, needs of those around us. There are these latter days through the Prophet I pray that the Lord will bless and some, particularly among the young, Joseph Smith. It is the key to our keep you, my brothers and sisters. who are tragically involved in drugs, happiness. May we be humble and May His promised peace be with you immorality, pornography, and so prayerful, having the faith that our now and always. Thank you for your on. There are those who are lonely, Heavenly Father can guide and bless prayers in my behalf and in behalf of including widows and widowers, who us in our lives. all of the General Authorities. We are long for the company and concern I bear my personal witness and deeply grateful for you. In the name of others. May we ever be ready to testimony to you that God lives, that of our Savior and Redeemer, whom extend to them a helping hand and He hears the prayers of humble hearts. we serve, even Jesus Christ, the Lord, a loving heart. His Son, our Savior and Redeemer, amen. ◼ We live at a time in the world’s speaks to each of us: “Behold, I stand NOTES history when there are many difficult at the door, and knock: if any man 1. Psalm 30:5. challenges but also great opportuni- hear my voice, and open the door, I 2. Revelation 3:20. ties and reasons for rejoicing. There will come in to him.” 2 May we believe are, of course, those times when we these words and take advantage of experience disappointments, heart- this promise. Short Video Highlight aches, and even tragedies in our lives. As this conference now concludes, Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13Conf20 to However, if we will put our trust in I invoke the blessings of heaven upon watch or share a short video the Lord, He will help us through our each of you. May your homes be clip of this message. 114 GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING | March 30, 2013

ur 2013 Mutual theme comes from the 87th section of the By Ann M. Dibb ODoctrine and Covenants. This Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency instruction is found in three separate sections; obviously the admonition is important. It explains how we can receive protection, strength, and peace in unsettling times. The inspired Your Holy Places instruction is to “stand ye in holy places, and be not moved.” 1 Whether [your holy places] are geographic or moments As I have pondered this theme, I can’t help but wonder, “What are the in time, they are equally sacred and have incredible ‘holy places’ Heavenly Father is refer- strengthening power. ring to?” President Ezra Taft Benson counseled, “Holy places include our temples, our chapels, our homes, and the stakes of Zion, which are . . . ‘for a defense, and for a refuge.’” 2 In addi- tion to these, I believe we can each find many more places. We might first consider the word place as a physical environment or a geographic location. However, a place can be “a distinct condition, position, or state of mind.” 3 This means holy places can also include moments in time —moments when the Holy Ghost testifies to us, moments when we feel Heavenly Father’s love, or moments when we receive an answer to our prayers. Even more, I believe any time you have the courage to stand for what is right, especially in situations where no one else is willing to do so, you are creat- ing a holy place. Throughout Joseph Smith’s short but magnificent life, he truly “[stood] in holy places” and was not moved. As a young teenager, he was troubled by the religious turmoil in his commu- nity and wanted to know which of all the churches was true. The wooded area close to his home became a holy place as he knelt among the trees and offered his first vocal prayer. His prayer was answered, and today Latter-day Saints refer to these woods as the Sacred Grove.

May 2013 115 be experiencing your own Liberty Jail, a place where you face humiliation, a place where you feel no loving- kindness, a place where you are mocked, bullied, or even physically harmed. To you young women I offer Elder Holland’s words: “You can have sacred, revelatory, profoundly instruc- tive experiences with the Lord in the most miserable experiences of your life Young women around the world received knowledge and comfort. . . . , while enduring the most painful stand in holy places in nature at That night, his bedroom became a injustices, when facing the most insur- Young Women camp. A leader shared holy place. mountable odds and opposition you with me the story of one young While watching a Mormon Message have ever faced.” 7 In other words, just woman’s experience. This girl was less for Youth, I witnessed another bed- like the Prophet Joseph Smith, you can active and was a bit skeptical about room that had become a holy place. create and stand in holy places even having a spiritual experience in the The video shows Ingrid Delgado, in the hardest times you have ever woods. After the first day, she reported a young woman from El Salvador, experienced. to the leader, “I’m having a great time, sharing her feelings about the temple. A young adult, Kirsten, shared but could we please cut out all of the She says, “It is good to know we have with me her painful experience. High talk about the Spirit? I’m here to camp, a place where we can get away from school had been her Liberty Jail. enjoy nature, be with my friends, and the things of the world and receive Fortunately, the band room provided have some fun!” However, at the con- sacred ordinances and help those who relief. She said: “When I stepped into cluding testimony meeting, this same couldn’t receive them in this life.” As this room, it was as if I stepped into a girl tearfully admitted, “I don’t want she speaks, the video shows Ingrid safe place. There were no degrading to go home. How can I have what I reading her scriptures, surrounded by or belittling remarks, no profanity. am feeling right now, this Spirit, with Mormonads, quotations, a Personal Instead, we heard words of encour- me all the time?” She had discovered a Progress book, pictures of her family agement and love. We exercised kind- holy place. and the temple, and yes, her favorite ness. It was a happy place. The band Another holy place in Joseph stuffed animals.5 Perhaps without room was filled with the Spirit as we Smith’s life was his own bedroom. even realizing it, she has created her practiced and performed music. The This may be hard to believe because, holy place away from the things of room was like this in large measure like many of you, he shared his the world. I wonder how many times because of the influence of the band bedroom with siblings. It became Ingrid has read her scriptures, felt the instructor. He was a good Christian a holy place when he prayed with Spirit, and received answers to her man. Looking back, high school was great faith, humility, and need. He prayers in her holy place. a refining place. It was difficult, but explained, “After I had retired to my Yet another unexpected holy place I learned resilience. I will forever be bed for the night, I betook myself to in Joseph Smith’s life was Liberty Jail. grateful for my refuge, my holy place, prayer and supplication to Almighty Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said, “There the band room.” 8 God for forgiveness of all my sins and was no more burdensome time in Tonight, have you been reflecting follies.” 4 The three years which had Joseph’s life than this cruel, illegal, upon your holy places? I’ve asked passed since Joseph had the vision and unjustified incarceration.” Elder hundreds of young women to share in the Sacred Grove had not been Holland went on to explain that their holy places with me. Whether easy. Seventeen-year-old Joseph had Liberty Jail has been referred to as a they are geographic or moments endured endless mockery, ridicule, “prison-temple” because of the sacred in time, they are equally sacred and bullying. But that night in Joseph’s experiences the Prophet Joseph Smith and have incredible strengthening bedroom, the angel Moroni appeared had there.6 power. Here are nine of their tender in answer to his pleadings. Joseph Some of you young women may responses: 116 • One: “I was in the hospital, holding May I share with you one of my You, the noble youth of the my new baby brother.” holy places? Once, I was feeling Church, are my heroes. I love you. I • Two: “Each time I read my patri- overwhelmed, fearful, and completely feel Heavenly Father’s incredible love archal blessing, I feel I am known alone. Silently, I prayed: “Heavenly for you, and I bear you my testimony and loved by my Heavenly Father.” Father, I do not know how to do this. that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. • Three: “The day I turned 12, the Please, please, help me!” Soon, an He is waiting, ready to buoy you up young women in the ward deco- individual unexpectedly came for- as you “stand . . . in holy places, and rated my door with paper hearts.9 ward, placed a hand on my shoulder, be not moved.” I love and sustain I felt loved, accepted, and happy!” and offered sincere, encouraging President Thomas S. Monson, our true • Four: “As I was reading my scrip- words. In that moment, I felt peace. and encouraging prophet. I say these tures one day, a phrase ‘popped I felt acknowledged. Everything had things in the name of Jesus Christ, out.’ I had found an answer to my changed. The words of President amen. ◼ prayers.” Spencer W. Kimball came to mind: • Five: “I walked into a party where “God does notice us, and he watches NOTES people were drinking and par- over us. But it is usually through 1. Doctrine and Covenants 87:8; see also Doctrine and Covenants 45:32; 101:22. ticipating in other unacceptable another person that he meets our 2. Ezra Taft Benson, “Prepare Yourself for activities. The Spirit told me to needs.” 11 For me, that moment, that the Great Day of the Lord,” New Era, turn around and go home. I did, place, had become holy. May 1982, 50; see also Doctrine and Covenants 115:6. and yes, there were social conse- Dear young women, there are 3. Merriam-Webster Online, “place,” quences. However, that moment countless other holy places I wish we merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ gave me the confidence I needed to could share with one another. When place. 4. Joseph Smith—History 1:29. know that I could live the gospel.” you return home tonight, I encourage 5. See “Practice, Celebration, Dedication: • Six: “During the sacrament, I was you to record in your journal those Temple Blessings in El Salvador,” lds.org/ thinking about the Atonement. I places which you are recognizing and youth/video. 6. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Lessons from Liberty recognized I needed to forgive remembering. It is clear to me that Jail,” Ensign, Sept. 2009, 26, 28. someone I was angry with. My thousands of you are standing in holy 7. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Lessons from Liberty choosing to forgive was a posi- places. These places are providing you Jail,” 28. 8. Personal conversation with author. tive action that would bring the with protection, strength, and peace in 9. Sometimes referred to in the United States Atonement into my daily life.” unsettling times. Your testimonies are as a “heart attack.” • Seven: “After attending New becoming stronger because you are 10. Isaiah 1:18. 11. Spencer W. Kimball, “The Abundant Beginnings with my mom, she standing for truth and righteousness in Life,” Ensign, July 1978, 4; Tambuli, June kissed me on the cheek and told me glorious ways. 1979, 3. she loved me. This was the first time I could remember her doing this.” • Eight: “With my bishop’s assurance, I knew that the promise the scrip- tures provided was true: ‘Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.’ 10 I felt hope and knew I could begin my lengthy process of repentance.” • Lastly: “One evening, I summoned the courage to share my feelings about the gospel and a Book of Mormon with my best friend. Later, it was a privilege to attend her baptism. Now we attend church together.” San Salvador, El Salvador

May 2013 117 By Mary N. Cook prepared to make and keep sacred First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency temple covenants. As with all the wise virgins, her individual preparation came as she added oil to her lamp, one drop at a time, by consistent righteous living. I noted the beautiful When You Save a Girl, braid in her hair. Megan explained that the braid represented the weav- ing of this young woman’s virtuous You Save Generations life into countless generations. One strand represented the weaving of her love and respect for her ancestors, the Your virtuous lives will bless your ancestors, your families second the weaving of her righteous now, and family members yet to come. influence upon her current family, and the third strand the weaving of her prepared life into the lives of genera- tions to come. I met another young woman whose t is an honor for me to address the your life with the lives of your ances- early spiritual preparation has woven valiant young women of the Church. tors by providing saving ordinances a life of righteousness into many IWe see you progressing on the path for them. generations. of those who honor their covenants, Stand in holy places for yourself On a beautiful September after- and we know your virtuous lives will and your immediate family. Your noon, my husband and I were in bless your ancestors, your families righteous example will be a source the temple awaiting the opportunity now, and family members yet to come, of great joy, regardless of your family to participate in temple ordinances. for as President Gordon B. Hinckley circumstances. Your righteous choices Chris, a friend of ours, entered the stated, “When you save a girl, you save will qualify you to make and keep room. It was great to see this young generations.” 1 sacred covenants that will bind your man, who had recently returned from Your covenant path began at the family together eternally. a mission to Russia. time when you were baptized and Stand in holy places for your future As the session was about to begin, received the gift of the Holy Ghost. family. Commit to being sealed to your a lovely young woman sat next to It continues weekly in sacrament husband by the holy priesthood in the me. She was radiant, smiling, and meeting, a holy place where you temple as you begin an eternal family filled with light. I wanted to know renew your baptismal covenant. unit. Your children will be blessed her, so I quietly introduced myself. Now is the time for you to prepare to with truth as you weave your virtuous She whispered her name, Kate, and I make temple covenants. The “sacred example and unshakable testimony recognized her last name as a family ordinances and covenants available into their lives and show them the way that had lived in Michigan, where in holy temples make it possible for on the covenant path. my family once lived. Kate was their [us] to return to the presence of God I saw these eternal principles grown-up daughter, who five weeks and for [our] families to be united displayed at the recent International earlier had returned from her mission eternally.” 2 Art Competition for Youth. Megan to Germany. Stand in holy places for your ances- Warner Taylor digitally composed During the session the thought kept tors. “Every human being who comes a work of photography, taking a entering my mind: “Introduce Kate to this earth is the product of gener- modern approach to Christ’s parable to Chris.” I put this prompting aside, ations of parents. We have a natural of the ten virgins.4 I met Megan, and thinking, “When, where, how?” As we yearning to connect with our ances- she explained the symbolism of the were preparing to leave, Chris came tors.” 3 As you participate in family tenth virgin, whom she described as over to tell us good-bye and I seized history and temple work, you weave a young woman of virtue and faith, the opportunity. I pulled Kate over 118 Queen Creek, Arizona, USA and whispered, “You are two virtuous She loved her father dearly, and he working. I remember seeing him and young people who need to know used his priesthood authority to help thinking, ‘Oh no, it’s happening. My each other.” I left the temple satisfied her make her first covenant of baptism. seminary teacher was right. I am hav- that I had acted upon my prompting. She then had hands laid on her head ing a trial.’” Within a few days Kate’s On the way home, my husband and received the Holy Ghost. Kate father passed away. and I discussed our recollections of said, “I was excited to receive the Holy Continuing, Kate said: “It was so the challenges that had come to Kate’s Ghost, and I knew that it would help hard. You never want to lose the hero family. I have since come to know me stay on the path to eternal life.” of your life. I knew I could make it a Kate better, and she has helped me Life continued on for Kate in a very springboard for growth or allow it to understand the reasons for the joyful blessed and happy way. When she be a roadblock. I didn’t want to let it countenance I observed in the temple was 14, she started high school and ruin my life, because I was only 14 that day. loved seminary, another holy place years old. I tried to be as close to the Kate has always tried to stay on to learn about the gospel. One day Lord as possible. I read my scrip- her covenant path by seeking holy her teacher started to talk about trials tures a lot. Alma chapter 40 assured places. She was raised in a home and guaranteed that we would all face me that the resurrection is real and where having family home evening, them. She said to herself, “I don’t want through Christ’s Atonement, I could praying together, and studying the trials; I don’t want to hear this.” be with my father again. I prayed a scriptures made her home a holy It was just a few weeks later that lot. I wrote in my journal as often as place. As a child, she learned about her father woke up on Easter Sunday I could. I kept my testimony vibrant the temple, and the song “I Love to extremely ill. Kate said: “My father by writing it down. I went to church See the Temple” was a favorite for was a very healthy person; he was a and to Young Women every week. I family home evening.5 As a little marathon runner. My mother was so surrounded myself with good friends. girl, she watched her parents set an alarmed by how sick he was that she I kept close to caring relatives and example of seeking a holy place as took him to the hospital. Within 36 especially to my mom, who was the they went to the temple on a weekend hours he had a massive stroke that anchor in our family. I sought out evening instead of going to a movie or shut down most of his body. He could priesthood blessings from my grand- to dinner. blink, but the rest of his body was not father and other priesthood holders.”

May 2013 119 These consistent choices, like received news that my mother’s bless- Kate was seeking a holy place the those of the wise virgin, added oil to ing was realized. I was so glad that I night I met her in the temple. Desiring Kate’s lamp. She was motivated by didn’t put off serving the Lord. When to weave tightly the eternal rela- her desire to be with her father again. hard things come, I think it’s easy to tionships that come through temple Kate knew her father was aware of become stagnant and not really want service, she followed the pattern her choices, and she did not want to move forward, but if you put the set by her parents of regular temple to disappoint him. She wanted an Lord first, the adversities can lead to attendance. eternal relationship with him, and beautiful blessings. You can see His Not much happened the night she understood that staying on her hand and witness miracles.” Kate I introduced Kate to Chris, but in covenant path would keep her life experienced the reality of President seeking another holy place the fol- woven tightly with his. Thomas S. Monson’s words: “Our most lowing Sunday, Kate saw Chris amid The trials didn’t end, however. significant opportunities will be found hundreds of young single adults at When Kate was 21 and submitting in times of greatest difficulty.” 6 an institute devotional. There they her mission papers, her mother was Kate had this kind of faith because found out more about each other. A diagnosed with cancer. Kate had she understood the plan of salvation. few weeks later, Chris invited her to to make an important decision in She knew we lived before, that earth is watch general conference with him. her life. Should she stay home and a time of testing, and that we will live They continued seeking places that support her mother or go on her again. She had faith that her mother invited the Spirit throughout their mission? Her mother was given a would be blessed, but from her expe- courtship and were eventually sealed priesthood blessing promising that rience with her father, she knew that if in the temple, the holy place where she would survive the illness. Assured her mother were to pass away, it would they were introduced. Both are now by this blessing, Kate went forward be all right. She said: “I didn’t just sur- fulfilling the sacred responsibility of with faith and continued her plans to vive my dad’s death; it became part of parenthood, weaving their testimonies serve a mission. my identity for good, and had my mom of the plan of salvation into the lives Kate said: “It was taking a step in been taken away, it would have done of three little boys, showing them the the dark, but while I was on my mis- the same thing. It would have woven a way on the covenant path. sion, the light eventually came and I greater testimony into my life.” 7 “When you save a girl, you save 120 generations.” Kate’s decision as a By Elaine S. Dalton 14-year-old to stay on the path, to con- Young Women General President sistently add oil to her lamp, and to stand in holy places has and will save generations. Seeking out her ancestors and serving in the temple have woven her heart with theirs. Participating in Be Not Moved! family history and temple work will likewise weave your hearts together and give your ancestors the opportu- Stand firm. Be steadfast. “Stand for truth and nity of eternal life. righteousness.” Stand as a witness. Be a standard Living the gospel in your home will to the world. Stand in holy places. also add oil to your lamp and weave spiritual strength into your home now and bless your future family in count- less ways. And furthermore, as Elder Robert D. Hales has said, “If the exam- onight I stand in a holy place at toward Zion. Her decision to join the ple we have received from our parents this pulpit, in the presence of Church and leave her home was not was not good, it is our responsibility Tprophets, seers, and revelators an easy one, and you can see that the to break the cycle . . . and teach cor- and royal daughters of God. This is a opposing winds are blowing fiercely rect traditions for the generations that magnificent time to be on the earth against her. She is standing firm, doing follow.” 8 and to be a young woman. You are a very hard thing but one she knows Decide now to do all you can to fill the elect daughters of our Father in to be right. Her descendants placed your lamps, that your strong testimony Heaven. I hope you sense your iden- this sculpture there on that pier as a and example may be woven into tity and how beloved you are of our tribute to Kristina, for her decision the lives of many generations—past, Father in Heaven. He loves each of that day had eternal significance for present, and future. I testify that your you, and I do too. generations. virtuous life will not only save genera- On the desk in my office, I have For me this sculpture of Kristina tions, but it will also save your eternal a bronze replica of a sculpture of represents each one of you. Like life, for it is the only way to return to a young woman whose name is Kristina, you are standing on the edge our Father in Heaven and find true joy Kristina. The original life-sized sculp- of many important decisions and now and throughout eternity. In the ture of Kristina stands on a pier in making choices daily, some of them name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ Copenhagen, Denmark, positioned difficult, that will shape not only your so that she is looking out over the sea future but also the destiny of gener- NOTES 1. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Standing Strong ations. You too are facing gale-force and Immovable,” Worldwide Leadership winds of opposition, adversity, peer Training Meeting, Jan. 10, 2004, 20; pressure, and moral pollution. And yet see also Gordon B. Hinckley, “Our Responsibility to Our Young Women,” you are standing immovable and liv- Ensign, Sept. 1988, 10. ing the gospel in the face of these rag- 2. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” ing storms in our society. Like Kristina, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 129. 3. Russell M. Nelson, “Generations Linked in you are led by the Holy Ghost. You Love,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2010, 92. are making correct decisions. You are 4. See Matthew 25:1–13. loyal, and you are royal. 5. See “I Love to See the Temple,” Children’s Songbook, 95. I can think of no more important 6. Thomas S. Monson, “Meeting Your Goliath,” counsel from a loving Heavenly Father New Era, June 2008, 7. than His admonition for each of you 7. Personal interview with author, 2013. 8. Robert D. Hales, “How Will Our Children to “stand . . . in holy places, and be Remember Us?” Ensign, Nov. 1993, 10. not moved.” 1 He is saying: Stand firm.

May 2013 121 Be steadfast.2 “Stand for truth and righ- children. It is part of the plan of hap- that was being held in the school’s teousness.” 3 Stand as a witness.4 Be a piness you and I chose and defended auditorium. As I walked down the standard to the world. Stand in holy in our premortal existence. Live your halls, a flood of memories began to places. And so my message to each of lives in such a way that you can listen pour into my mind. I remembered you is a simple one: Be not moved. to and hear the Holy Ghost, and He exactly how I felt when I attended high First, be not moved in choosing will help you make correct decisions. school as a young woman—insecure, right. In these latter days, there are no In fact, He will tell you “all things what unsure of myself, self-conscious, and small decisions. The choices you are ye should do.” 5 so, so desirous to fit in. I went into the making right now are of critical impor- Several weeks ago I returned to my auditorium. Again a flood of memories tance. Agency, or the ability to choose, old high school for the first time in came to mind. I was familiar with every is one of God’s greatest gifts to His years. I was visiting a stake conference detail of that auditorium. Only one thing had changed—me. That day I had the opportunity to stand on the stage as I had done in high school many times as a student officer. I even saw some of my former classmates in the audience—some I had dated! But this time, instead of conducting an assembly, I had the privilege—there in my high school auditorium—to “stand as a witness” 6 and bear my testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Young women, make sure your relationships with others are such that 40 years from now, you will not be embarrassed. No amount of peer pressure, no acceptance, no popu- larity is worth a compromise. Your influence on the young men will help them remain worthy of their priest- hood power, of temple covenants, and of serving a mission. And who knows? Forty years from now, you may even have one of them walk up to you, there in your high school auditorium, and thank you for helping him remain worthy to fulfill his priesthood duty to serve an honorable mission. And who knows? You may even receive a letter from one of those young men’s wives, thanking you for the influence you had on her husband and their future family clear back in your high school days. Your choices matter. Your choices now not only affect you, but they also affect others. They are of eternal significance. Be not moved! 122 Second, be not moved in your desire to be future mothers of generations If you are not feeling worthy to stand and commitment to remain virtuous to come. Keep yourselves pure and in holy places, do not carry this bur- and sexually pure. Cherish virtue. worthy, and guard that which is “most den one day longer. In mortality, we Your personal purity is one of your dear and precious above all”—your will all make mistakes. Be assured that greatest sources of power. When you virtue and chastity.9 Heavenly Father’s the Savior loves you so much that He came to the earth, you were given the wise counsel to you personally, His made it possible for you to change precious gift of a body. Your body is elect daughters, is to “walk . . . the and to repent if you make a mistake. the instrument of your mind and a paths of virtue.” 10 Satan does not want you to think you divine gift with which you exercise Virtue is the golden key to the can change.12 He will try to convince your agency. This is a gift that Satan temple. So, third, be not moved in you that all is lost. That is a lie. You was denied, and thus he directs nearly being worthy to make and keep sacred can return. You can repent. You can all of his attacks on your body. He covenants. The covenant you make be pure and holy because of the wants you to disdain, misuse, and at baptism will tether you to the path Savior’s infinite Atonement. abuse your body. Immodesty, pornog- of virtue and happiness as you renew Now let me close with one of the raphy, immorality, tattoos and pierc- that covenant each week by partaking greatest love stories ever told. You might ings, drug abuse, and addictions of all of the sacrament. As you keep your ask, “What does a love story have to kinds are all efforts to take possession baptismal covenant, you will look dif- do with standing in holy places?” It has of this precious gift—your body—and ferent, dress different, and act different everything to do with standing in holy to make it difficult for you to exercise from the world. Keeping this covenant places. This is the story of a young your agency. Paul asks, “Know ye not will enable you to be guided by the woman named Rebekah.13 that ye are the temple of God, and that Holy Ghost. Stand in holy places, and As this story unfolds, Abraham the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” 7 do not even go near those environ- charges his servant with finding a wor- Your body is a temple. Why? ments or music, media, or associations thy young woman to be his son Isaac’s Because it has the capacity to house that might cause you to lose the com- wife. She must be one who qualifies not only your eternal spirit but also panionship of the Holy Ghost.11 And for a covenant marriage—virtuous and the eternal spirits of others who will as you keep your covenants, you will pure and worthy. And so he sends come to the earth as part of your remain worthy and prepared to enter his servant on a long and dangerous eternal family. Elder Dallin H. Oaks the Lord’s holy temples. journey to a place called Haran. The taught, “The power to create mortal Last, be not moved in your accep- reason he must go there is clear—holy life is [an] exalted power.” 8 Your role tance of the Savior’s Atonement. The men need holy women to stand by is an exalted role. God has given Atonement is for you and for me. It is their sides. As the servant approached you a sacred trust! You are preparing an enabling and a redeeming power. the city of Nahor, he stopped at a well

May 2013 123 winds blew fiercely, the water from the well was heavy, and departing from their familiar homes and former lives certainly was not easy. But they made correct choices. They were guided by the Holy Ghost. They were virtuous, and they prepared them- selves to make and keep sacred cov- enants. The Savior descended through Rebekah’s lineage. Did she know then that this would happen? No! Do your choices now matter? Yes! Young women, generations are depending on the choices you make, your purity, and your worthy lives. Be not moved. You have a great destiny Brasília, Brazil before you. This is your moment! I truly believe that one virtuous young to water his camels and he prayed that resolutely responded, “I will go; I will woman, led by the Spirit, can change he would be led to the right young do” 17 when our prophet, President the world! woman and that he would recognize Thomas S. Monson, announced the I testify that the Savior lives! He her by her offer to get water for him opportunity for young men and will be with you. He will enable you. and his 10 camels. Now, I have ridden young women to serve missions at And in difficult moments, His “angels a camel, and this much I know— a younger age? [will be] round about you, to bear you camels drink a lot of water! Now the moral and ending of this up.” 22 In the name of Jesus Christ, In Genesis we read that Rebekah love story: Rebekah was prepared amen. ◼ not only went down to the well and worthy to make and keep sacred and got water, but she “hasted,” 14 or covenants and to become a covenant NOTES 1. Doctrine and Covenants 87:8. hurried, to accomplish this task. The wife of Isaac. She did not have to 2. See Mosiah 5:15. servant then placed bracelets and wait and prepare herself. Prior to her 3. Young Women motto, in Young Women jewelry on Rebekah and asked if there departure from her family, she was Personal Progress (booklet, 2009), 2. 4. See Mosiah 18:9. was room in her father’s home for him given a blessing, and the words are 5. 2 Nephi 32:5. to stay. I am sure the jewelry helped! stirring to me, for she was promised 6. See Mosiah 18:9. The scripture reads, “And the damsel that she would become “the mother 7. 1 Corinthians 3:16. 18 8. Dallin H. Oaks, “The Great Plan of ran, and told them of her mother’s of thousands of millions.” But the Happiness,” Ensign, Nov. 1993, 74. house these things.” 15 Rebekah must best part of this love story is when 9. Moroni 9:9. have been a runner! Rebekah first saw Isaac and he first 10. Doctrine and Covenants 25:2. 11. See 1 Corinthians 6:9; 1 Thessalonians The servant told Rebekah’s family saw her. It doesn’t say this in the 5:22; 2 Timothy 2:22; Doctrine and the purpose of his long journey, and Bible, but I think it was love at first Covenants 9:13. Rebekah agreed to become Isaac’s sight! For “virtue loveth virtue; [and] 12. See For the Strength of Youth (booklet, 19 2011), 28–29. wife. The servant desired to leave the light cleaveth unto light.” When 13. See Genesis 24. very next day with Rebekah, but her Isaac went out to meet the caravan, 14. Genesis 24:20. family entreated her to stay with them Rebekah “lighted off [her] camel.” 20 15. Genesis 24:28. 16. Genesis 24:58. at least 10 more days. Then they asked And then it says, “And he loved 17. See 1 Nephi 3:7. Rebekah what she wanted to do, and her.” 21 This is where I sigh! 18. Genesis 24:60. her response was simply “I will go.” 16 For both Rebekah and Kristina, 19. Doctrine and Covenants 88:40. 20. Genesis 24:64. Does that response sound familiar standing in holy places was not easy. 21. Genesis 24:67. to the response of thousands who Being not moved was not easy. The 22. Doctrine and Covenants 84:88. 124 By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf I was the youngest child, and my Second Counselor in the First Presidency mother decided that she and I would walk across a mountain range sepa- rating the two countries. I remember that she packed a lunch as if we were going for a hike or a picnic in the Your Wonderful mountains. We took a train as far as we could and then walked for long hours, get- Journey Home ting ever closer to the West German border. The borders were tightly controlled, but we had a map and As you joyfully use the map your loving Father has provided knew of a time and a place where it for your journey, it will lead you to holy places and you will might be safe to cross. I could sense my mother’s anxiety. She observed rise to your supernal potential. the area intensely to see if we were being followed. With each step, her legs and knees seemed to become weaker. I helped carry her heavy bag e are honored this eve- Berlin. My older brothers headed north, filled with food, vital documents, and ning with the presence and each found his own way west. My family photos as we climbed up one Wof President Thomas S. sister—who would have been the age last, long hill. Surely, she thought, we Monson, our beloved prophet. of many of you here today—together had passed the border by now. When President, we always pray for you. with Helga Fassmann, her teacher in she finally felt safe, we sat down and My dear sisters, thank you for the Young Women, and some others took started to eat our picnic lunch. For music and the spoken word. All was so a train that passed briefly through West the first time that day, I’m sure, she inspiring and so fitting for Easter, the Germany. They paid a porter to unlock breathed more easily. sacred season we celebrate this week. one of the doors for them, and after the It was only then that we noticed It is a joy to be with you precious train crossed the West German border, the border sign. It was still far ahead young sisters, together with your they jumped from the moving train to of us! We were having our picnic on mothers and your wonderful leaders. freedom. How I admired my sister for the wrong side of the border. We were You have radiant spirits and conta- her courage. still in East Germany! gious smiles. Surely the Lord is mind- ful of you and looks lovingly from heaven upon you. I grew up in Zwickau, in the former East Germany. When I was about 11 years old, my father fell under increased scrutiny as a politi- cal dissenter, and my parents felt that the only safe choice for our family would be to flee to West Germany. It was decided that the safest plan was to leave at different times and follow different routes to the West, leaving all our belongings behind. Since my father was at greatest risk, he took the quickest journey, through Sobral, Brazil

May 2013 125 A Universal Story Don’t we love these journey stories because we can see ourselves in the travelers? Their successes and failures can help us find our own way through life. The video we saw a few minutes ago also tells a beautiful journey story. Perhaps these stories also remind us of a journey we all should be familiar with—a journey story in which each one of us plays an important part. This story begins a very long time ago, long before the earth began spin- ning in its orbit, long before the sun Border guards could show up any and her dog, Toto, in The Wizard of began to reach its fiery arms into the moment! Oz. Dorothy and Toto are swept up in cold of space, long before creatures My mother frantically packed up a tornado and deposited in the Land great and small had populated our our lunch, and we hurried up the hill- of Oz. There, Dorothy finds that dis- planet. At the beginning of this story, side as quickly as we could. This time tinctive, yellow-brick road that marks you lived in a faraway, beautiful place. we didn’t dare stop until we knew the path for a journey that eventually We do not know many details with certainty that we had reached the leads her home. about life in that premortal sphere, other side of the border. Then there is Charles Dickens’s but we do know some. Our Heavenly Even though each member of our Ebenezer Scrooge, whose journey Father has revealed to us who He family had taken very different routes takes him not from place to place but is, who we are, and who we can and experienced very different hard- from time to time. It’s a journey right become. ships along the way, eventually all of within his own heart that helped him Back in that first estate, you knew us made it to safety. We were finally to understand why he became the with absolute certainty that God reunited as a family. What a glorious way he was and to see what would existed because you saw and heard day that was! happen to him if he continued on his Him. You knew Jesus Christ, who path of selfishness and ingratitude.1 would become the Lamb of God. You Journey Stories One of the great classical novels had faith in Him. And you knew that What I have just told you is an of Chinese literature is Journey to your destiny was not to stay in the experience that is to me a very the West. Written in the 16th cen- security of your premortal home. As precious journey. I can now look tury, it tells beautifully the adventure much as you loved that eternal sphere, back on my life and recognize a story and pilgrimage of a monk you knew you wanted and needed number of such “journeys” I have who, with the help of four friendly to embark on a journey. You would taken over time. Not all of them characters, journeys toward spiritual depart from the arms of your Father, involved crossing mountain ranges enlightenment. pass through a veil of forgetfulness, or political boundaries; some had And of course there is Bilbo receive a mortal body, and learn and more to do with overcoming trials or Baggins, the small, unassuming hobbit experience things that hopefully growing in spirituality. But they were who would have very much preferred would help you grow to become more all journeys. I believe that every life to stay home and eat his soup. But like Father in Heaven and return to is a collection of individual “journey after a knock at his door, he follows His presence. stories.” the call of the great unknown and In that sacred place, surrounded by I am sure you are aware that every steps out into the world, together those you knew and loved, the great cultural tradition is rich with journey with a wizard and a band of dwarfs, question on your lips and in your stories. For instance, you may be to fulfill a dangerous but vitally impor- heart must have been “Will I return familiar with the journey of Dorothy tant mission.2 safely to my heavenly home?” 126 Copenhagen, Denmark

There were so many things that And so, you took a deep breath . . . • And through personal revelation would be out of your control. Mortal And a great step forward . . . from the Holy Ghost. life would be hard at times, filled with And here you are! unexpected bends in the road: sick- You have, each one of you, This map is the gospel of Jesus ness, heartbreak, accidents, conflict. embarked on your own wonderful Christ, the good news, and the joyful Without a memory of your previ- journey back to your heavenly home! way of a disciple of Christ. It is the ous existence—without remembering commandments and example given that you once walked with your Father Your Map to us by our Advocate and Mentor, in Heaven—would you still recognize Now that you are here on earth, who knows the way because He is His voice amid all the noise and dis- it might be wise to ask yourself how the way.3 tractions of mortal life? your journey is going. Are you on the Of course, simply having a map The journey ahead seemed so long right course? Are you becoming the doesn’t do any good unless you and uncertain—so filled with risk. person you were designed to be and study it—unless you use it to navigate It wouldn’t be easy, but you knew wanted to become? Are you making through life. I invite you to make it a it was worth every effort. choices that will help you to return to high priority to study and apply God’s So, there you stood on the edge your Father in Heaven? word. Open your heart to the Holy of eternity, looking forward with He didn’t send you on this journey Ghost so that He can direct you along unspeakable excitement and hope— only to wander aimlessly on your your journey through life. and, I imagine, also with a degree of own. He wants you to come home to Your map is full of encouraging worry and fear. Him. He has given you loving parents and instructive messages from your In the end, you knew God would and faithful Church leaders, along Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus be just—that His goodness would with a map that describes the terrain Christ. Today I would like to share triumph. You had participated in the and identifies the dangers; the map with you three of those messages that great heavenly councils and knew shows you where peace and happi- will help you to have a successful that your Savior and Redeemer, Jesus ness can be found and will help you journey back to your heavenly home. Christ, would provide a way for you plot your course back home. The first message: “Do not fear, to be cleansed from sin and rescued Now, where do you find this map? for I the Lord am with you.” 4 from physical death. You had faith You are not alone on this journey. that, in the end, you would rejoice and • In the sacred scriptures. Your Heavenly Father knows you. join your voice with a heavenly chorus • In the words of prophets and Even when no one else hears you, singing praises to His holy name. apostles. He hears you. When you rejoice in

May 2013 127 righteousness, He rejoices with you. such a role model yourself! It is not your responsibility to When you are beset with trial, He Of one thing you can be certain: convert anyone. That is the work of grieves with you. every person you see—no matter the the Holy Ghost. Your task is to share Heavenly Father’s interest in you race, religion, political beliefs, body your beliefs and to not be afraid. Be does not depend on how rich or type, or appearance—is family. The a friend to all, but never compro- beautiful or healthy or smart you are. young woman you look at has the mise your standards. Stand true to He sees you not as the world sees same Heavenly Father as you, and she your convictions and faith. Stand tall, you; He sees who you really are. He left His loving presence just as you did, because you are a daughter of God, looks on your heart.5 And He loves eager to come to this earth and live so and He stands with you! you 6 because you are His child. that she could one day return to Him. The second message: “Love one Dear sisters, seek Him earnestly, However, she might feel alone, just another, as I have loved you.” 8 and you will find Him.7 as you sometimes do. She may even Have you ever wondered what I promise you, you are not alone. occasionally forget the purpose of her language we all spoke when we lived Now, take a moment right now and journey. Please remind her through in the presence of God? I have strong look at the people around you. Some your words and your actions that she suspicions that it was German, though may be your leaders, friends, or family is not alone. We are here to help each I suppose no one knows for sure. But members. Others you may have never other. I do know that in our premortal life met before. Nevertheless, everyone Life can be difficult, and it can we learned firsthand, from the Father you see around you—in this meeting harden hearts to the point where cer- of our spirits, a universal language— or at any other place, today or at any tain people seem unreachable. Some one that has the power to overcome other time—was valiant in the pre- may be filled with anger. Others may emotional, physical, and spiritual mortal world. That unassuming and mock and ridicule those who believe barriers. ordinary-looking person sitting next to in a loving God. But consider this: That language is the pure love of you may have been one of the great though they do not remember, they Jesus Christ. figures you loved and admired in the too at one time yearned to return to It is the most powerful language in sphere of spirits. You may have been their Father in Heaven. the world. The love of Christ is not a pretend love. It is not a greeting-card love. It is not the kind of love that is praised in popular music and movies. This love brings about real change of character. It can penetrate hatred and dissolve envy. It can heal resent- ment and quench the fires of bitter- ness. It can work miracles. We received our “first lessons” 9 in this language of love as spirits in God’s presence, and here on earth we have opportunities to practice it and become fluent. You can know if you are learning this language of love by evaluating what motivates your thoughts and actions. When your primary thoughts are focused on how things will benefit you, your motivations may be selfish and shallow. That is not the language Sydney, Australia you want to learn. 128 But when your primary thoughts you were 12 again and could start an Apostle of the Lord I leave you a and behaviors are focused on serv- all over. blessing that you will find your way ing God and others—when you There will always be things to com- on this journey home and that you truly desire to bless and lift up those plain about—things that don’t seem will be an inspiration to your fellow around you—then the power of the to go quite right. You can spend your travelers. It is also my promise and pure love of Christ can work in your days feeling sad, alone, misunder- prayer that as you honor and live heart and life. That is the language stood, or unwanted. But that isn’t the true to the covenants, the principles, you want to learn. journey you had hoped for, and it’s and the values of the gospel of Jesus As you become fluent in this not the journey Heavenly Father sent Christ, at the end of your journey language and use it in your interac- you to take. Remember, you are truly Heavenly Father will be there. He tions with others, they will recognize a daughter of God! will embrace you, and you will know something in you that may awaken in With this in mind, I invite you to once and for all that you have made them a long-hidden feeling to search walk confidently and joyfully. Yes, it home safely. In the name of Jesus for the right way on the journey back the road has bumps and detours and Christ, amen. ◼ to their heavenly home. After all, the even some hazards. But don’t focus NOTES language of love is their true native on them. Look for the happiness your 1. See Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. language too. Father in Heaven has prepared for 2. See J. R. R. Tolkien, The Hobbit. This deep and abiding influence you in every step of your journey. 3. See John 14:6. 4. Doctrine and Covenants 68:6; see also is a language that reaches to the very Happiness is the destination, but it’s Isaiah 41:10; John 14:18. soul. It is a language of understanding, also the path. “Peace in this world, and 5. See 1 Samuel 16:7. a language of service, a language of eternal life in the world to come” is 6. See 1 Peter 5:6–7. 11 7. See Jeremiah 29:13. lifting and rejoicing and comforting. what He promises. That is why He 8. John 15:12; see also John 13:34; Moroni Learn to use the universal language commands us to “be of good cheer.” 7:45–48. of Christ’s love. As you joyfully use the map your 9. Doctrine and Covenants 138:56. 10. Doctrine and Covenants 78:18; see also And the third message: “Be of loving Father has provided for your John 16:33; 3 Nephi 1:13. good cheer.” 10 journey, it will lead you to holy places 11. Doctrine and Covenants 59:23. Sometimes we become impatient and you will rise to your supernal with where we are in our journey, potential. You will grow into the don’t we? If you are 12 years old, you daughter of God you hoped you Short Video Highlight might wish you were 14. At 14, you would become. Scan this QR code or visit lds.org/go/Apr13conf21 to might wish you were 18. And at 18, Dear sisters, dear young women watch or share a short video occasionally you might even wish of the Church, dear young friends, as clip of this message.

May 2013 129 THEY SPOKE TO US

a full-time missionary but also as a Church member (page 66). You Making Conference could study his talk with this ques- tion in mind: What can I do to be a better missionary now? Part of Our Lives • Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Consider using some of these activities and questions as a taught that it’s OK to have doubts and questions, but he also taught: starting point for family discussion or personal pondering. “Hold fast to what you already know and stand strong until additional knowledge comes. . . . Be true to the faith you do have” he page numbers listed with the Think about a time you obeyed (page 93). Consider writing in idea indicate the first page of the family rules. What about a time your journal your beliefs, testimony, Ttalk. when you obeyed God’s rules? and some spiritual experiences How did being obedient make you have had. Also write down For Children you feel? questions you have and keep • President Thomas S. Monson spoke • Elder M. Russell Ballard of the them so that as you read the scrip- about the importance of obedience Quorum of the Twelve Apostles tures and this issue, you can look and how disobedience always told the story of a little girl who for answers. brings consequences (page 89). planted a tomato from a small • Many speakers talked about seed (page 18). Read or retell obedience and its blessings. For this story as a family and talk example, President Monson taught, about what it teaches about how “A knowledge of truth and the you can become like Heavenly Father. You could set a goal to do one thing to grow closer to Heavenly Father. • Elder Enrique R. Falabella of the Seventy spoke about what makes families strong (page 102). He taught that some of the most important words to use with your family are “I love you,” “Thank you very much,” and “Forgive me.” Sister Rosemary M. Wixom, Primary general president, suggested say- ing, “I love everything about you” (page 81). See what happens when you use these words with your family. Does it make them happy? How do you feel?

For Youth • President Thomas S. Monson taught four principles for preparing to do missionary work—not just as 130 answers to our greatest questions come to us as we are obedient to the commandments of God” (page 89). Consider searching this issue to highlight or write down the many blessings of obedience. Identifying these blessings can inspire you to continue to live righteously. • Several speakers taught that you can serve anytime, not just during service projects. “Minister every day,” taught Brother David L. Beck, Young Men general president. “Opportunities are all around you.” In Brother Beck’s talk, you can read some examples of youth serving others (page 55).

For Adults • Many of the speakers testified of • May’s youth curriculum topic is • Several speakers focused on Jesus Christ. What can you learn on prophets and revelation. If you strengthening the family. For about His divine character, mis- teach youth at church or have teen­ example, Elder Richard G. Scott of sion, and ministry from the talks on age children, you could discuss the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles pages 22, 70, 96, 99, and 109? with them the curriculum and this taught, “When [the Savior] is the question: Why is it important to lis- center of your home, there is peace ten to and follow the living proph- and serenity” (page 29). Look for ets? Consider studying this issue to ways to make the Savior the center identify prophecies and warnings of your home as you study Elder that, if heeded, will help us thrive Scott’s talk as well as the talks on in troubled times. pages 6, 81, 83, and 102. ◼

TEACHING FROM THE SCRIPTURES

onsider studying these scriptures, which were quoted or referred to Cseveral times in general conference:

1 Samuel 16:7* Moroni 9:9 Matthew 7:24; 28:19 Doctrine and Covenants 42:22; John 13:34–35; 14:6; 16:33 59:23; 64:34; 84:88; 87:8; Mosiah 3:19*; 18:8–9 115:6 Helaman 5:12* Joseph Smith—History 1:17* 3 Nephi 11:7 * Seminary scripture-mastery verses

May 2013 131 Conference Story Index The following list of selected experiences from general conference can be used in personal study, family home eve- ning, and other teaching. The number refers to the first page of the talk. SPEAKER STORY

Elder Neil L. Andersen (77) Couples in Mozambique follow the Savior instead of their traditions.

Elder M. Russell Ballard (18) A seven-year-old granddaughter revives a wilted tomato plant.

David L. Beck (55) Aaronic Priesthood holders befriend a young woman who faces bullying. A deacon in Bangalore, India, helps activate all the young men in his branch.

Elder Tad R. Callister (52) Seventeen-year-old George F. Richards learns of priesthood power by giving his mother a blessing.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson (109) The mother of D. Todd Christofferson helps a young woman in need to reach her potential.

Mary N. Cook (118) A young woman faces her father’s death and her mother’s battle with cancer by exercising faith.

Elder Quentin L. Cook (32) A Hindu woman feels peace during the open house of the Suva Fiji Temple.

Bishop Dean M. Davies (9) The Loma Prieta, California, USA, earthquake in 1989 reaffirms in the mind and heart of Dean M. Davies the importance of building our lives on a firm foundation.

Ann M. Dibb (115) A less-active young woman feels the Spirit during Young Women camp.

President Henry B. Eyring (62) An orphan boy becomes the first member of the Church in a city of 130,000. While serving in New Mexico, USA, and in New England, USA, Henry B. Eyring sees God’s hand in building His kingdom.

Elder Enrique R. Falabella (102) Church members in Arizona, USA, give Enrique R. Falabella and his wife money so they can return to Guatemala following their temple marriage.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (93) Jeffrey R. Holland tells a 14-year-old boy he need never apologize for “only believing.”

President Thomas S. Monson (66) A man in Canada investigates and joins the Church after two full-time mission- aries bear powerful testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith. By expressing love in his weekly letters, a full-time missionary brings his father into the Church. (89) Eight-year-old Thomas S. Monson learns obedience after lighting a field on fire. A faithful Church member in Hungary saves his tithing for years until he can give it to his home teachers.

Elder Richard G. Scott (29) A full-time missionary wants to pattern his future family after his mission president’s family.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (70) West African Saints begin singing hymns after the electrical power goes out in their meetinghouse. The gospel helps a young woman overcome the darkness of an abusive upbringing. (125) Dieter F. Uchtdorf and members of his family flee from East Germany.

132 General Auxiliary Presidencies

RELIEF SOCIETY

Teachings for Our Time

elchizedek You may be tempted to Carole M. Stephens Linda K. Burton Linda S. Reeves Priesthood and prepare the lesson using First Counselor President Second Counselor Relief Society les- other materials, but the M YOUNG WOMEN sons on fourth Sundays will conference talks are the be devoted to “Teachings approved curriculum. Your for Our Time.” Each lesson assignment is to help others can be prepared from one learn and live the gospel as or more talks given in the taught in the most recent most recent general con- general conference of the ference (see chart below). Church. Stake and district presidents Review the talk(s), look- Carol F. McConkie Bonnie L. Oscarson Neill F. Marriott may choose which talks ing for principles and doc- First Counselor President Second Counselor should be used, or they trines that meet the needs may assign this respon- of class members. Also look PRIMARY sibility to bishops and for stories, scripture refer- branch presidents. Leaders ences, and statements from emphasize the value of the talk(s) that will help you Melchizedek Priesthood teach these truths. brethren and Relief Society Make an outline of how sisters studying the same to teach the principles and talks on the same Sundays. doctrines. Consider includ- Those attending fourth- ing questions that help class Jean A. Stevens Rosemary M. Wixom Cheryl A. Esplin Sunday lessons are encour- members: First Counselor President Second Counselor aged to study and bring • Look for principles and to class the latest general doctrines in the talk(s). YOUNG MEN conference issue of the • Think about their magazine. meaning. • Share understanding, Suggestions for Preparing a ideas, experiences, and Lesson from Talks testimonies. Pray that the Holy Spirit • Apply these principles will be with you as you and doctrines in their Larry M. Gibson David L. Beck study and teach the talk(s). lives. ◼ First Counselor President

MONTHS LESSONS ARE FOURTH-SUNDAY LESSON SUNDAY SCHOOL TAUGHT MATERIALS Talks given in the April April 2013–October 2013 2013 general conference *

Talks given in the October October 2013–April 2014 2013 general conference *

* For the April and October fourth-Sunday lessons, talk(s) may be selected David M. McConkie Russell T. Osguthorpe Matthew O. Richardson from the previous conference or from the most recent one. The talks are First Counselor President Second Counselor available in many languages at conference.lds​ ​.org.

May 2013 133 NEWS OF THE CHURCH

183rd Annual General Conference Includes Sustaining of New Young Women General Presidency

ur hearts have been Elder Ulisses Soares of the First “ touched,” said President Quorum of the Seventy was sustained OThomas S. Monson in the as a member of the Presidency of the closing session of the 183rd Annual Seventy. General Conference on April 7, 2013, Sustained as the new Young Women “and our testimonies of this divine general presidency were Bonnie Lee work have been strengthened as we Green Oscarson, president; Carol Foley have felt the Spirit of the Lord. May McConkie, first counselor; and Neill we long remember what we have Foote Marriott, second counselor. heard these past two days.” Three new members of the First Elaine S. Dalton, former Young More than 100,000 people attended Quorum of the Seventy were also Women general president, served in the five sessions of general confer- sustained: Elder Edward Dube of the Young Women general presidency, ence at the Conference Center in Salt Zimbabwe; Elder S. Gifford Nielsen either as a counselor or as president, Lake City, Utah, USA, on April 6 and 7. of Sugar Land, Texas, USA; and Elder for 11 years before her release in April. Millions worldwide watched or listened Arnulfo Valenzuela of Queretaro, See a complete list of sustainings via TV, satellite, radio, and Internet Mexico. Five new members of the and releases on page 26. broadcasts. Between live broadcasts Second Quorum of the Seventy were Find biographies of the newly and online video, audio, and text of also sustained. called leaders starting on page 139. ◼ the conference on LDS.org, members were able to access the conference in 95 languages. President Monson opened the YOU CAN HELP annual conference by announcing plans to build temples in Cedar City, oth President Thomas S. and because many of our mission- Utah, USA, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil— BMonson and Elder Russell M. aries come from modest circum- bringing the total number of temples Nelson of the Quorum of the stances, we invite you, as you are announced or under construction Twelve Apostles encouraged able, to contribute generously to to 29. Currently, 141 temples are in members to contribute to the the General Missionary Fund of operation. General Missionary Fund. As of the Church.” Several changes were made in April 4, 2013, 65,634 full-time Members can donate using Church leadership during the Saturday missionaries were serving, with a tithing donation slip and afternoon session. All members of the more than 20,000 more who entering the amount they wish Young Women general presidency had received calls. to contribute under the General were released, and Elder Walter F. During the opening session Missionary Fund. Members can González was released as a member of general conference, President also donate online through of the Presidency of the Seventy. Fifty- Monson remarked, “To help ldsphilanthropies.org. one Area Seventies were also released. maintain this missionary force, 134 For many years, Church leaders The Church Needs Senior Couples’ have encouraged senior couples to serve. Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Maturity and Experience Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said: “Missions everywhere need more cou- ples. Their maturity and experience make them some of the best mission- long with the increase in the specifically encouraged senior couples aries we have. Their special skills . . . number of young missionaries to serve. “You senior couples, you enable them to train local leaders A due to the lowering of mission- plan for the day when you can go effectively, strengthen and reactivate ary age, senior couples are also greatly on your mission. We will be most members, and bring nonmembers to needed in missions throughout the grateful for your service,” he said Christ” (“Missionary Couples—Trading world. With the recent creation of (see page 45). Something Good for Something 58 new missions, many more senior In the opening moments of the Better,” Ensign, June 1988, 9, 11). couples will be needed to provide October 2012 general conference, Worthy couples who wish to serve the leadership experience and other President Monson said: “We continue as missionaries are encouraged to let support that are so vital to a success- to need many more senior couples. their bishops or branch presidents ful mission. As your circumstances allow, as you know of their desire to serve. Length In the April 2013 conference, are eligible for retirement, and as your of service can vary between 6 and 23 President Thomas S. Monson spoke health permits, I encourage you to months. of the rapidly increasing number make yourselves available for full-time Those who have questions about of missionaries and expressed his missionary service. Both husband and senior missions may call 1-800-453- love for those willing to serve the wife will have a greater joy as they 3860, ext. 2-6741 (or 1-801-240-6741), Lord in the mission field (see pages together serve our Father’s children” or email SeniorMissionaryServices@ 4, 66). Elder Russell M. Nelson of (“Welcome to Conference,” Ensign ldschurch.org to receive a response the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 5). to specific questions. ◼

The maturity and experience of senior couples allow them to train local leaders and strengthen members as well as bring nonmembers to Christ. PHOTOGRAPH BY DON L. SEARLE © IRI

May 2013 135 New Online Tools Help Preserve and Share Family Photos and Memories

isitors to FamilySearch.org Family Tree key points: will notice some significant Vchanges as of April 2013. Fresh, • Find it at FamilySearch.org under bright colors, inviting pictures, and the “Family Tree” tab. a host of new features offer a vari- • The tree is prepopulated with over ety of experiences beyond research. 900 million individual names con-

Although the site will still be a great tributed by patrons. © IRI destination for genealogists and • It’s free of charge. researchers, the new features will • It enables individuals to collabo- attract a much broader swath of ratively build, manage, and share visitors. their family history entirely online. The new features help move family • Users can discover what others history beyond research and appeal may have already found about to a larger audience of novice family their family history. historians young and old. Visitors can • Users can readily attach photos now collaboratively build their family and stories and link sources. tree online and preserve and share • Users can permanently preserve family photos and stories—all free their shared family tree for future of charge. generations. Family photos and stories bring • The easy “grab and pull” feature ancestors to life. The real people allows users to move up and down behind the dates can teach us princi- their family tree with ease. ples such as the value of hard work, • Patrons will have access to billions how to deal with life’s challenges, of free records on FamilySearch.org and how choices impact our lives. to help fill in the missing branches Making it easier to record and pre- of their Family Tree. serve family histories helps us connect with our past and create a legacy for the future. Photos. Users can preserve favor- ite photos of ancestors, attach them New Features at FamilySearch.org to their profiles in the FamilySearch FamilySearch Family Tree. For Family Tree, and share them through the first time on FamilySearch.org, social media. Over 200,000 photos individuals can start collaboratively have already been contributed, pre- building their shared family tree served, and shared. entirely online, beginning by Stories. Users can write favorite adding information about them- stories about a specific ancestor in selves and then expanding to past the FamilySearch Family Tree. This

© IRI generations. feature enables families to gather, 136 © IRI

share, and perpetually preserve their family stories. Interactive Fan Chart. In 2012 Family History Changes Hearts FamilySearch tested a feature that enabled individuals to see themselves By R. Scott Lloyd and their ancestry in the context Church News of a colorful fan chart. This feature is now enhanced and available on any family history centers just genealogy, finding names and FamilySearch.org. Mof the future will be in the dates. The gravestones of any cem- Family Tree Wizard. Those new to home, predicted Elder Bradley D. etery in the world contain a name, creating their family tree will find this Foster of the Seventy in an address birth date, a dash, and then a death tool useful. In an inviting interview given on March 23 in conjunction date, he said. “That little dash style, the tool asks questions about with the RootsTech 2013 Family between the birth and death date your living and deceased ancestors, History and Technology Conference seems so small and insignificant, but then builds those connections into the in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. our whole history lies within it,” he family tree to get you started. Elder Foster, an Assistant remarked. “So while we often focus Live Help. Interest in family Executive Director of the Family on discovering those dates, our love history is growing worldwide. History Departments, said that of our ancestors—the turning of FamilySearch has launched a global there will soon be nine billion peo- our hearts to our fathers—comes online community that provides free ple on the earth and that the Lord forth from discovering the dash.” product help and personal research has prepared technology that will Family history brings us together assistance by phone and web chat 24 make it possible to “bind and con- as we share stories and work hours a day—now in 10 languages. nect all those families together.” together, he explained. “Therefore, Languages. All of the new He emphasized the importance genealogy changes our charts; fam- features and services will be avail- of doing family history, learning ily history changes our hearts.” ◼ able in 10 languages. A collection of the stories of our ancestors—not free how-to videos and other online resources are available for all features. Just click on the Help button for more details. ◼

May 2013 137 Elder Eldred G. Smith Dies at Age 106

By Sarah Jane Weaver Church News lder Eldred G. Smith, who served as Patriarch to the EChurch from 1947 to 1979, died on April 4, 2013, at his home. He was 106 years old. Believed to be the oldest man in Utah, Elder Smith lived longer than any former General Authority. Church President Thomas S. President Thomas S. Monson, right, visits with Elder Eldred G. Smith, who Monson visited Elder Smith on the served as Patriarch to the Church from 1947 to 1979, on his 106th birthday, latter’s birthday, January 9, 2013. January 9, 2013. Elder Smith died on April 4 at his home. “Eldred Smith is my good friend,” said President Monson. “We have traveled many miles together. I love and respect this man.” Eldred G. Smith was called as and Samoa to give patriarchal as Patriarch to the Church and patri- Patriarch to the Church on April blessings to members there. It was arch of our extended family,” he said.

10, 1947, by then-Church President the first time a presiding patriarch He added that he knew Elder Smith CHURCH NEWS AVANT, PHOTOGRAPH BY GERRY George Albert Smith and was the had ever visited Samoa. Today most felt his greatest accomplishment was last person to hold the position. stakes have a patriarch residing his family. He was given emeritus status in within the stake. Eldred Smith married Jeanne 1979. The office originated in 1833 President Monson and Elder Audrey Ness in 1932; they had five with the calling of Joseph Smith M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum children. Following her death in June Sr., father of the Prophet Joseph of the Twelve Apostles both spoke 1977, he married Hortense Child; she Smith. Elder Smith is the great- at Elder Smith’s funeral. President was then serving as a counselor in the great-grandson of the Prophet’s Monson read a letter of condolence Young Women general presidency. brother Hyrum. to the family from the First Presidency, She died in May 2012. During his service as Church then added, “Temporarily, I have lost Elder Smith is survived by two Patriarch, Elder Smith traveled a good friend.” sons and two daughters (another to many areas of the world and Elder Ballard, who is also a daughter is deceased), 22 grand­ gave many patriarchal blessings in great-great-grandson of Hyrum children (two others are deceased), areas where there was no patri- Smith, spoke of Elder Smith’s contri- 63 great-grandchildren, and 22 great- arch. In 1966 he traveled with butions to keeping alive the history great-grandchildren. ◼ then-Elder Monson to Australia of their family. “We celebrate him Gerry Avant contributed to this article.

138 Elder Ulisses Elder Edward Soares Dube

Of the Presidency of the Of the Seventy Seventy

lder Ulisses Soares, who began serving in the lder Edward Dube was introduced to the gospel in Presidency of the Seventy in January 2013, has wit- 1981 by an employer in whose home he worked. The Enessed firsthand the rapid growth of the Church in Eman gave him a copy of the Book of Mormon. He several parts of the world. did not read it until 1983 but then was so impressed with Elder Soares was born in São Paulo, Brazil, in October Joseph Smith’s testimony of the visitation of Moroni that he 1958. His parents, Apparecido and Mercedes Soares, joined responded to an invitation to attend a fast and testimony the Church when he was five. They attended meetings meeting at the meetinghouse in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe. in a room above a bakery. Elder Soares remembers the He felt uncomfortable at first, feeling that he was in a excitement he felt as an eight-year-old when the first stake servant relationship to most of those in attendance. in South America was organized in São Paulo in 1966. The “But as they bore their testimonies about the Book of Church in Brazil grew rapidly to 50 stakes by 1990 and Mormon, I felt some connection with these people,” he more than 200 stakes by 2000. recalled, “and I was able to share my feelings about the Elder Soares, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Book of Mormon.” accounting and economics from Pontificia Catholic He would later receive missionary lessons, be baptized, University and an MBA from the National Institute of and eventually serve in the Zimbabwe Harare Mission. Postgraduate Study, was working for a multinational tire During that time, he taught the family of Naume company when he was offered a position with the Church. Keresiya Salazani, then age 16. They continued their Hired to work for the Finance Department, he soon became acquaintance after his mission and were married in director for temporal affairs in the Church area office in Kwekwe on December 9, 1989. In May 1992 they were São Paulo, providing support to the Area Presidency for 10 sealed in the Johannesburg South Africa Temple. They years. He also served as the first president of the São Paulo are the parents of three daughters and a son. Brazil Cotia Stake. Born in May 1962 in the village of Chirumanzu, He served as president of the Portugal Porto Mission Zimbabwe, to Clement and Rosemary Dube, Elder Dube from 2000 to 2003 and was called to the First Quorum of earned a diploma in education from Zimbabwe E. D. the Seventy in April 2005. He has served in the Brazil and College in 1992 and then went to work for the Church the Africa Southeast Area Presidencies. Educational System, establishing seminaries and institutes “These experiences have given me the perspective to of religion in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi. He has see that the Church can be established wherever we have been blessed to see many of the students to whom he faithful people,” he said, “and the perspective to see what has handed certificates of graduation go on to serve in I must learn to better serve.” Church leadership positions in those countries as the Elder Soares and his wife, Rosana Fernandes Morgado, Church has grown. were married in October 1982 in the São Paulo Brazil He has served as elders quorum president, branch Temple. They are the parents of three children. president, district president, stake president, counselor Elder Soares served a full-time mission in the Brazil Rio in a mission presidency, and, from 2009 to 2012, president de Janeiro Mission. He has also served as elders quorum of the Zimbabwe Harare Mission. Prior to his call to the president, counselor in a bishopric, high councilor, stake First Quorum of the Seventy he was serving as an Area executive secretary, and regional welfare agent. ◼ Seventy. ◼

May 2013 139 Elder S. Gifford Elder Arnulfo Nielsen Valenzuela

Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

lder Stanley Gifford Nielsen is passionate about athlet- lder Arnulfo Valenzuela grew up in the Mormon col- ics, but sports are not the most important thing in his onies in Chihuahua, Mexico, and graduated from the Elife. He believes balance is critical and the gospel is EChurch-owned Academia Juárez. His childhood there the foundation for happiness now and in the eternities. afforded precious opportunities to be mentored by faithful Born in October 1954 to Harry and Lois Nielsen, he men and women who were devoted to the gospel and to lived in Provo, Utah, USA, until graduating from college. serving the Lord. His parents taught him a gospel-centered value system The lessons learned in that storied corner of the Church that has guided his life. in Latin America will serve him well as he assumes his After suffering a devastating injury that ended his col- duties as a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy. lege football career, Elder Nielsen said he learned that the “I feel very blessed for this calling to serve the Lord on most important things in life couldn’t be taken away by an a full-time basis,” he said. injury. Born in May 1959 to Gilberto and Rosa Valenzuela, After a successful recovery, he played quarterback in young Arnulfo was drawn at a young age to Church the National Football League, but his career fell apart after service. At 19 he accepted a call to the Mexico Veracruz three years. He was publicly ridiculed. It was a time of Mission. In that scenic region of Mexico he realized the sat- self-reflection and finding out what he truly believed. “I isfaction of daily gospel labor and the joy of inviting others learned that the Savior never leaves you, no matter what,” to Christ. said Elder Nielsen, who now lives in Sugar Land, Texas. Shortly after his mission, he visited a family he had bap- If there is a scripture that he has tried to pattern his life tized that subsequently moved to Mexico City. The family’s after, it is Matthew 5:14–16: “Ye are the light of the world. next-door neighbor, Pilar Porras, was a faithful convert to . . . Let your light so shine before men, that they may see the Church. Arnulfo and Pilar became friends and soon your good works, and glorify your Father which is in began dating. They married in the Mesa Arizona Temple on heaven.” April 6, 1982, at a time when there were no temples in their “The Lord opens His arms to you,” said Elder Nielsen. native land. “You love Him by living the gospel.” They have raised three children, continuing to serve in It was during college that he met Wendy Olson. They the Church as they have watched Mexico become a nation were married in the Provo Utah Temple on April 23, 1975. of temples. “We could never have imagined having 12 He earned a degree in communications from Brigham temples in Mexico, with one under construction,” he said. Young University. He was quarterback for the Houston During his tenure as a bishop, a counselor in both a Oilers and sports director for KHOU television prior to his stake and mission presidency, and an Area Seventy, Elder call to serve full-time for the Church. Valenzuela has witnessed the remarkable devotion of count- The father of six children, Elder Nielsen has served as less Mexican members who are willing to give all they have a seminary teacher, Young Men president, elders quorum to the Lord’s cause. president, bishop, and stake president. He was serving as A graduate of Mexico City’s University of Accounting an Area Seventy at the time of his call to the First Quorum and Administration Studies, Elder Valenzuela has worked of the Seventy. ◼ in a variety of management positions for international corporations. ◼

140 Elder Timothy J. Elder Randy D. Dyches Funk

Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

ne of Elder Timothy John Dyches’s favorite roles in lder Randy Dennis Funk of the Second Quorum of the life is to “be a witness” and testify to others, helping Seventy has lived his life with this overriding principle: Othem come unto Christ. Whether he is serving as a E“Trust in the Lord and His goodness.” missionary, interacting in his own family, or working in his During his third year of law school, his wife was preg- profession, he happily accepts that role and responsibility nant with their second child and he was an associate editor and tries to help others do the same. of the law review when the call came to serve as elders Born in January 1951 in Murray, Utah, USA, to Milo quorum president. “At this challenging time I accepted the Fredrick and Mary Katherine Dyches, he was the second of call and prayed to Heavenly Father to make up the differ- seven children. When he was a young deacon, his family ence,” he said. “I needed help to fulfill my calling, success- moved to Elko, Nevada, where he spent time after school fully complete my education, find employment, and care working at his father’s pharmacy. As they worked side by for my young family. The blessings we received were far side, his father taught him the importance of hard work— beyond what we deserved. That experience gave me great something that would serve him well as a young missionary faith in the goodness of the Lord and His blessings upon in the Germany South Mission from 1970 to 1972. those who earnestly strive to serve Him.” “It was a tough mission, but it was a great mission for Born in August 1952 to C. Dennis and Rebecca Funk, me,” he said. “I learned the value of hard work and obedi- he grew up in Manti, Utah; Madison, Wisconsin; and ence and not giving up.” Smithfield, Utah, USA. He watched his father serve faithfully That work ethic continued after his mission in his in the Church and was taught the importance of fulfilling schooling, profession, and Church assignments. Elder priesthood duties. Dyches met his future wife, Jill Dudley, while attending After serving a mission in Indonesia, he married Andrea Brigham Young University. They were married on April 26, Clyde on May 29, 1976, in the Logan Utah Temple. They 1974, in the Manti Utah Temple. They have three children. are the parents of six children. Elder Funk earned a degree Elder Dyches earned a bachelor’s degree from Brigham in history from Utah State University and a juris doctorate Young University in university studies and went on to earn from the University of Utah. He was a partner in a large a medical degree from Washington University Medical law firm in Denver, Colorado, prior to his full-time Church School. He spent his professional career as an ear, nose, service, which began with his call as president of the India and throat surgeon in a private practice in Reno, Nevada. Bangalore Mission in 2010. At the time of his call to the Second Quorum of the “When we went to India, we had faith in the Savior’s Seventy, Elder Dyches was serving in the Young Men words: ‘And again, I say unto you, that whosoever ye shall organization as a deacons quorum adviser. He has served send in my name, by the voice of your brethren, the Twelve, in many other callings, including Area Seventy, president duly recommended and authorized by you, shall have of the Oregon Portland Mission, stake president, counselor power to open the door of my kingdom unto any nation in a stake presidency, high councilor, temple ordinance whithersoever ye shall send them’ (D&C 112:21).” Elder worker, Sunday School president, and ward clerk. ◼ Funk has served as elders quorum president, Young Men president, bishop, stake president, and Area Seventy. ◼

May 2013 141 Elder Kevin S. Elder Adrián Hamilton Ochoa

Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

lder Kevin Scott Hamilton describes himself as “the hile serving as an Area Seventy in Mexico, Elder product of a conversion and a rescue.” Adrián Ochoa spent a couple of days in the city E His birth in March 1955 in Wenatchee, Washington, Wof Chihuahua in counsel with the stake president USA, prompted questions in his mother, Kay, about the and others, then boarded a plane destined for home. But meaning of life. She talked to an LDS friend, Richard Pratt, after taking his seat, he received a forceful spiritual prompt- who connected her with missionaries. ing that his work in Chihuahua was not finished. Her husband, Norman Russell Hamilton, explained The flight crew was making final preparations for that he was already a member of the Church, although take-off. “But,” said Elder Ochoa, “I knew I had to get off less active since his early teenage years. He became active that plane.” So he disembarked. A series of subsequent inter- in the Church as his wife joined it. views yielded important information that resolved a difficult “My parents were fabulous members who built the issue and permitted the spiritual progress of a family. faith that we have today,” Elder Hamilton said. But Elder Ochoa’s work in Chihuahua was still not done. But he attests it was his mission to France and The Spirit also led him to the humble home of a cousin he Switzerland that really changed his life. “It created in had not seen in years. He found his estranged cousin—an me a burning desire that never left,” he said. inactive member—and her small family in desperate straits. He married a kindred spirit, Claudia Keysor, on July 27, “I knew the Church and Christ were their solution. I begged 1978, in the Los Angeles Temple. While rearing their six my cousin to return to church,” he said. children in California, they have made of their home some- The cousin did return to activity, and a precious family thing of a visitors’ center. relationship was restored. The Lord was able to rescue “They say you can have a silent sermon in your home, several lives in Chihuahua because one man heeded the and we have had these little quotes around the house,” promptings of the Spirit. Sister Hamilton said. An entryway to the home is kept All are entitled to such life-changing spiritual prompt- stocked with copies of the Book of Mormon, For the ings, testified Elder Ochoa, who has served in a variety of Strength of Youth booklets, and other Church literature Church callings while working in the advertising field. He that is regularly replenished as visitors take them. presided over the Honduras San Pedro Sula Mission from Elder Hamilton’s determination to serve has brought 2004 to 2007 and, from 2009 until his call to the Second opportunities to serve as bishop, stake president, and Quorum of the Seventy, served as second counselor in the president of the Belgium Brussels Netherlands Mission Young Men general presidency. from 2003 to 2006. Prior to his call to the Second Quorum Born in March 1954 in San Francisco, California, USA, of the Seventy, he was director of the Southern California to Eduardo and Consuelo Ochoa, he grew up in both Public Affairs Council of the Church, comprising 64 stakes California and Mexico. As a young man, he was called to in the Greater Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. serve a special public affairs mission in Mexico. He and With a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young his wife, Nancy Villareal, were sealed in the Mexico City University and a master’s from the University of Temple. They are the parents of five children. ◼ Washington, both in business, he has spent most of his career in the telecommunications industry, serving a num- ber of times as a chief executive officer. ◼

142 Elder Terence M. Bonnie L. Vinson Oscarson

Of the Seventy Young Women General President

lder Terence M. Vinson, newly called to the Second hile serving as matron of the Stockholm Sweden Quorum of the Seventy, had never heard the term Temple from 2009 to 2012, Bonnie Lee Green EMormon before meeting Kay Anne Carden in the early WOscarson saw Latter-day Saints from Sweden, 1970s in Sydney, Australia. The pair talked about religion Norway, and Latvia sacrifice to worship in the house of the and ultimately came to an agreement. Each Sunday, they Lord. would attend both the church of Terence’s youth and a She didn’t know then, however, that the lessons she was small branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day learning from these “very humble, extremely dedicated and Saints. One group met in a large and beautiful building, the committed” members would help direct her focus as the other in a small rented space that the few Latter-day Saints Church’s Young Women general president. had been able to procure. “Since many young women are now choosing to serve But after a while “the comparison was embarrassing,” missions and attend the temple at a younger age, I hope and Terence began taking the missionary discussions. He that my experience working in the temple will help me had many questions. Then, while attending stake confer- understand how to help them prepare,” she said. ence, he felt a message as clearly as if it had been spoken. Bonnie Lee Green was born in October 1950 in Salt Lake “I needed to join the Church in order to progress. All the City to Theo James and Jean S. Green. When her parents questions I had would have answers,” he said. decided they wanted their children to experience the He was baptized the next week. Church outside of Utah, nine-year-old Bonnie and her fam- Terence Michael Vinson was born in Sydney, Australia, ily moved to Oklahoma, USA. The family also spent time in in March 1951 to John Laurence and May Therese A. Colorado and Tennessee before moving to Missouri, where Vinson. His father, who worked as a firefighter, sacrificed Bonnie met Paul Kent Oscarson at the Far West, Missouri, so his seven children could get an education. temple site—a place of significance because they both have Elder Vinson received a bachelor’s degree in mathemat- ancestors who lived in the Far West area. ics and statistics from Sydney University and a teaching After attending Brigham Young University, the couple diploma from Sydney Teachers College. He also received married on December 19, 1969, in the Salt Lake Temple; a financial planning diploma from Deakin University seven children would eventually join the family. and a master’s degree in applied finance from Macquarie Sister Oscarson was just 25 years old when her husband University. During his career, he was a well-known math —who had served full-time in the Swedish Mission from teacher, lecturer, and financial adviser and directed a finan- 1965 to 1968—was called to preside over the Sweden cial planning and investment firm. Göteborg Mission. He married Kay Anne, the woman who introduced When the Oscarsons returned to the United States, they him to the gospel, on May 2, 1974, in Sydney, and the lived in Missouri, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Texas, couple was sealed on August 23, 1975, in the Hamilton where Brother Oscarson worked as a department store New Zealand Temple; they have six children. Less than regional vice president. Like her parents, Sister Oscarson three years after his baptism, Elder Vinson was called as a found great joy in living in areas where Church member- bishop. He has served in several stake presidencies and as ship was small. a regional representative and Area Seventy. ◼ Sister Oscarson has served as a Young Women president three times, as an early-morning seminary teacher for nine years, and as a Gospel Doctrine teacher. ◼

May 2013 143 Carol F. Neill F. Marriott McConkie Second Counselor in the Young Women First Counselor in General Presidency the Young Women General Presidency

ince she was young, Carol Foley McConkie has had a ven before she joined the Church, Neill Foote Marriott “longing for the temple.” That focus has directed her learned as a young girl that there was a God and that Sactions throughout her life. EHe loved her. Born in April 1952 in Spokane, Washington, USA, to “My father was a pattern of our Heavenly Father,” said Williams and Joanne W. Foley, Sister McConkie was just a the new second counselor in the Young Women gen- toddler when missionaries knocked on her parents’ door eral presidency. “His love and acceptance for others was in Wilmington, Delaware, and introduced her family to the unbounded. It was a simple and natural transfer of the gospel. Her parents quickly embraced the teachings despite love and trust I had for my earthly father to trust and love opposition and having to make changes to their lifestyle. my Heavenly Father.” As a child she traveled with her family by train across Born to George and Antonia Foote in October 1947 the country to be sealed in the Manti Utah Temple. in Alexandria, Louisiana, USA, she was the only sister “That was a very sweet experience,” she said. “I remem- to six younger brothers. After graduating from Southern ber dressing in white and what that meant to my family. It Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, with a degree in was a magnificent experience, and even though I was really English literature and secondary education, she moved to young, I remember the feelings I had, glimpses of white, Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she worked as a secre- and the beauty of that day. That experience gave me my tary at Harvard University. There she met David Cannon first desire to keep the temple in my life always.” Marriott, who told her, “I have some friends I want you to The temple became a beacon of hope during times of meet.” He soon brought the missionaries to teach her and trial and as she had her own family. her roommates. She met her husband, Oscar Walter McConkie III, As she listened to the missionaries, she said, “the while they were attending Arizona State University. Sister lessons filled in the missing pieces of my gospel under- McConkie earned her bachelor’s degree in English educa- standing.” After her baptism in May 1970, she and David tion. They were married on December 22, 1973, in the Mesa remained friends; after a year they began dating and were Arizona Temple and are the parents of seven children. married in June 1971 in the Salt Lake Temple. At the time of her call as first counselor in the Young Working together with her husband, Sister Marriott Women general presidency, Sister McConkie was serving stayed home with their 11 children while he pursued a on the Young Women general board. She has spent most career in business. They have served in many Church of her Church service in callings that involve teaching and callings. She served with him as he presided over the São as ward Young Women president and a counselor in ward Paulo Interlagos Mission from 2002 to 2005, and she has Relief Society and Primary presidencies. She served with served as an ordinance worker in the Salt Lake Temple, a her husband as he presided over the California San Jose stake and a ward Relief Society president, a ward Young Mission from 2005 to 2008. ◼ Women president, a Gospel Doctrine teacher, and a food storage specialist. In her new assignment, Sister Marriott hopes to share the same testimony she received as a young woman. She wants young women to know that “they are loved by their Heavenly Father with the deepest, most glorious love.” ◼

144 BRADY FAIRBANKS, MAY NOT BE COPIED MAY BRADY FAIRBANKS, © “Whereas I Was Blind, Now I See,” by Brady Fairbanks “And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. . . . “When [ Jesus] had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, “And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam. . . . He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing. . . . “He answered and said, . . . One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see” ( John 9:1, 6–7, 25). “We live at a time in the world’s history when there are many difficult challenges but also great opportunities and reasons for rejoicing,” said President Thomas S. Monson during the closing session of the 183rd Annual General Conference of the Church. “There are, of course, those times when we experience disappointments, heart- aches, and even tragedies in our lives. However, if we will put our trust in the Lord, He will help us through our difficulties, whatever they may be.”