THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • MAY 2011

General Conference Addresses 75th Anniversary of Church Welfare Program Three New Temples Announced “And [Peter] took[the hand, lameman]bythe himup:andimmediately right andlifted hisfeet “A certain man lame from hismother’s“A was.laiddaily manlamefrom womb atthe certain gateofthe .; “Then Peter“Then said,Silver andgold have Inone;butsuch as Ihave give Ithee: “Who seeingPeter andJohn abouttogo intothe an alms.. templeasked In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. up andwalk. rise In theofNazareth nameofJesus Christ and ankle bones received strength”and anklebones received (Acts 3:2–3,6–7). Such asIHaveGiveThee,byWalter Rane

COURTESY OF CHURCH HISTORY MUSEUM Contents May 2011 Volume 35 • Number 5

2 Summary for the 181st Annual 58 Your Potential, Your Privilege GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING General Conference President Dieter F. Uchtdorf 115 I Believe in Being Honest and True 62 Learning in the Priesthood Ann M. Dibb SATURDAY MORNING SESSION President Henry B. Eyring 118 “Remember This: Kindness Begins 4 It’s Conference Once Again 66 Priesthood Power with Me” President Thomas S. Monson President Thomas S. Monson Mary N. Cook 6 The Sabbath and the Sacrament 121 Guardians of Virtue Elder L. Tom Perry SUNDAY MORNING SESSION Elaine S. Dalton 10 Become as a Little Child 70 Waiting on the Road to Damascus 125 A Living Testimony Jean A. Stevens President Dieter F. Uchtdorf President Henry B. Eyring 13 Followers of Christ 78 More Than Conquerors through Him Elder Walter F. González That Loved Us 72 General Authorities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 15 The Atonement Covers All Pain Elder Paul V. Johnson Elder Kent F. Richards 81 The Sanctifying Work of Welfare 129 Conference Story Index 18 LDS Women Are Incredible! Bishop H. David Burton 130 They Spoke to Us: Making Elder Quentin L. Cook 84 The Essence of Discipleship Conference Part of Our Lives 22 Opportunities to Do Good Silvia H. Allred 132 General Auxiliary Presidencies President Henry B. Eyring 87 The Spirit of Revelation 132 Teachings for Our Time Elder David A. Bednar 133 News of the Church SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 90 The Holy Temple—a Beacon to 26 The Sustaining of Church Officers the World President Dieter F. Uchtdorf President Thomas S. Monson 28 Church Auditing Department Report, 2010 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Robert W. Cantwell 94 The Eternal Blessings of Marriage 29 Statistical Report, 2010 Elder Richard G. Scott Brook P. Hales 97 “As Many as I Love, I Rebuke and 30 Guided by the Holy Spirit Chasten” President Boyd K. Packer Elder D. Todd Christofferson 34 Face the Future with Faith 101 The Lord’s Richest Blessings Elder Russell M. Nelson Elder Carl B. Pratt 37 Establishing a Christ-Centered Home 103 What Manner of Men and Elder Richard J. Maynes Women Ought Ye to Be? Elder Lynn G. Robbins 40 Testimony Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. 106 Called to Be Saints Elder Benjamín De Hoyos 42 Desire Elder Dallin H. Oaks 108 The Miracle of the Atonement 46 Finding Joy through Loving Service Elder C. Scott Grow Elder M. Russell Ballard 111 An Ensign to the Nations PRIESTHOOD SESSION Elder Jeffrey R. Holland 49 Preparing the World for the 114 At Parting Second Coming President Thomas S. Elder Neil L. Andersen Monson 53 Hope Elder Steven E. Snow 55 Sacred Keys of the Aaronic Priesthood Larry M. Gibson Music by a Young Women choir from Summary for the 181st Annual stakes in the ; Merrilee Webb, director; Linda Margetts and Bonnie General Conference Goodliffe, organists: “High on the Mountain Top,” Hymns, no. 5; “Guardians of Virtue,” Strength of Youth Media 2011: We Believe, SATURDAY MORNING, APRIL 2, 2011, SUNDAY MORNING, APRIL 3, 2011, unpublished (cello: Jessica Hunt); “I Know GENERAL SESSION GENERAL SESSION That My Redeemer Lives,” Hymns, no. 136, Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. arr. Lyon, pub. Jackman (harp: Hannah Conducting: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Conducting: President Henry B. Eying. Cope); “How Firm a Foundation,” Hymns, Invocation: Elder Allan F. Packer. Invocation: Elder Gary E. Stevenson. no. 85, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. Benediction: Elder Dale G. Renlund. Benediction: Elder Tad R. Callister. Music by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack Music by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack CONFERENCE TALKS AVAILABLE Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, directors; Clay Wilberg, director; Richard Elliott and Andrew To access general conference talks in many Christiansen, organist: “Rejoice, the Lord Unsworth, organists: “O Thou Rock of Our languages, visit conference.lds.org. Then Is King!” Hymns, no. 66; “Glory to God Salvation,” Hymns, no. 258; “Sabbath Day,” select a language. Generally within two on High,” Hymns, no. 67; “We Listen to a Hymns, no. 148; “Hark, All Ye Nations!” months following conference, audio record- Prophet’s Voice,” Hymns, no. 22, arr. Murphy, Hymns, no. 264, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; ings are available at distribution centers. unpublished; “I Know That My Redeemer “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243; “Have Lives,” Hymns, no. 136; “I Know That My I Done Any Good?” Hymns, no. 223, arr. HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES Savior Loves Me,” Creamer/Bell, arr. Murphy, Zabriskie, pub. Plum; “The Spirit of God,” For home and visiting teaching messages, unpublished; “High on the Mountain Top,” Hymns, no. 2, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. please select an address that best meets the Hymns, no. 5, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. needs of those you visit. SUNDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 3, 2011, SATURDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 2, 2011, GENERAL SESSION ON THE COVER GENERAL SESSION Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Front: Photograph by Weston Colton. Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Conducting: President Henry B. Eyring. Back: Photograph by Les Nilsson. Conducting: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Invocation: Elder José A. Teixeira. Invocation: Elder Kevin W. Pearson. Benediction: Elder Kent D. Watson. CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY Benediction: Elder Michael T. Ringwood. Music by the Tabernacle Choir; Mack Scenes of general conference in Salt Lake Music by a combined choir from Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, directors; Linda City were taken by Craig Dimond, Welden C. University–Idaho; Eda Margetts and Bonnie Goodliffe, organists: Andersen, John Luke, Matthew Reier, Ashby and Randall Kempton, directors; “I Saw a Mighty Angel Fly,” Hymns, no. 15, Christina Smith, Cody Bell, Les Nilsson, Bonnie Goodliffe, organist: “How Firm a arr. Wilberg, unpublished; “I’m Trying to Weston Colton, Sarah Jensen, and Derek Foundation,” Hymns, no. 85, arr. Ashby, Be like Jesus,” Children’s Songbook, 78–79, Israelsen; in by Marcelino Tossen; unpublished; “How Great the Wisdom and arr. Bradford, pub. Nature Sings; “Come, Ye in by Laureni Fochetto, Ana Claudia the Love,” Hymns, no. 195; “Press Forward, Children of the Lord,” Hymns, no. 58; “More Souza de Oliveira, and Veruska Oliveira; in Saints,” Hymns, no. 81; “Let Zion in Her Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, no. 131, arr. Ecuador by Alex Romney; in Germany by Beauty Rise,” Hymns, no. 41, arr. Kempton, Staheli, pub. Jackman. Mirko Kube; in Jamaica by Alexia Pommells; unpublished. in by Ericka González Lage; in SATURDAY EVENING, MARCH 26, 2011, by Wilmore La Torre; in SATURDAY EVENING, APRIL 2, 2011, GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING by Juliana Oliveira; in Romania by Matei PRIESTHOOD SESSION Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Florin; in Slovenia by Ivan Majc; in South Presiding: President Thomas S. Monson. Conducting: Elaine S. Dalton. Africa by Kyle Cannon; in Ukraine by Marina Conducting: President Henry B. Eyring. Invocation: Emily Lewis. Lukach; in Maryland, USA, by Sasha Rose; Invocation: Elder Rafael E. Pino. Benediction: Bethany Wright. and in Zambia by Tawanda Maruza. Benediction: Elder Joseph W. Sitati. Music by a priesthood choir from the Ogden and Logan Utah Institutes; Jerald F. Simon, J. Nyles Salmond, and Alan T. Saunders, directors; Andrew Unsworth, organist: “See the Mighty Priesthood Gathered,” Hymns, no. 325; “Guide Me to Thee,” Hymns, no. 101, arr. Unsworth, unpublished; “Redeemer of Israel,” Hymns, no. 6; “For the Strength of the Hills,” Hymns, no. 35, arr. Durham, pub. Jackman.

2 MAY 2011 VOL. 35 NO. 5 LIAHONA 09685 Official international magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 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: Paul B. Pieper Advisers: Stanley G. Ellis, Christoffel Golden Jr., Managing Director: David L. Frischknecht Editorial Director: Vincent A. Vaughn Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg Managing Editor: R. Val Johnson Assistant Managing Editors: Jenifer L. Greenwood, Adam C. Olson Associate Editors: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr Editorial Staff: Brittany Beattie, David A. Edwards, Matthew D. Flitton, LaRene Porter Gaunt, Larry Hiller, Carrie Kasten, Jennifer Maddy, Melissa Merrill, Michael R. Morris, Sally J. Odekirk, Joshua J. Perkey, Chad E. Phares, Jan Pinborough, Janet Thomas, Paul VanDenBerghe, Melissa Zenteno Managing Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen Art Director: Scott Van Kampen Production Manager: Jane Ann Peters Senior Designers: C. Kimball Bott, Thomas S. Child, Colleen Hinckley, Eric P. Johnsen, Scott M. Mooy Production Staff: Collette Nebeker Aune, Howard G. Brown, Julie Burdett, Reginald J. Christensen, Kim Fenstermaker, Kathleen Howard, Denise Kirby, Ginny J. Nilson Prepress: Jeff L. Martin Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick SPEAKERS IN ALPHABETICAL TOPIC INDEX Missionary work, 4, 46, 49 Distribution Director: Evan Larsen ORDER Aaronic Priesthood, 55 Motherhood, 18 For subscriptions and prices outside the Allred, Silvia H., 84 and , contact your local Church distribution Adversity, 15, 34, 78, 106 New Testament, 6 center or or branch leader. Andersen, Neil L., 49 Agency, 42 Obedience, 10, 34, 40, 87, Send manuscripts and queries to ­Liahona, Rm. Ballard, M. Russell, 46 Atonement, 15, 40, 53, 106, 97, 101, 103, 125 2420, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT Bednar, David A., 87 108, 114 Parenthood, 37, 94, 103 84150-0024, USA; or e-mail: [email protected]. Burton, H. David, 81 Benevolence, 118 Patience, 15, 78 The ­Liahona (a term meaning Christofferson, D. Todd, 97 “compass” or “director”) is published in Albanian, Blessings, 34, 78, 101 Pioneers, 53 Armenian, Bislama, Bulgarian, Cambodian, Cebuano, Cook, Mary N., 118 Charity, 46, 53, 81 Prayer, 125 Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Cook, Quentin L., 18 Children, 10, 37, 103 Preparation, 49 Estonian, Fijian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Dalton, Elaine S., 121 Hungarian, Icelandic, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Correction, 97 Priesthood, 30, 49, 58, Kiribati, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Malagasy, De Hoyos, Benjamín, 106 Councils, 18 62, 66 Marshallese, Mongolian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Dibb, Ann M., 115 Covenants, 13, 90, 94, 115 Priorities, 42 Romanian, Russian, Samoan, Slovenian, Spanish, Eyring, Henry B., 22, Swedish, Tagalog, Tahitian, Thai, Tongan, Ukrainian, Desires, 42 Prophets, 111 Urdu, and Vietnamese. (Frequency varies by language.) 62, 125 Discipleship, 13, 84, 111 , 84 © 2011 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Gibson, Larry M., 55 Divorce, 66 Repentance, 40, 97, 108 Printed in the United States of America. González, Walter F., 13 Duty, 55, 62 Revelation, 30, 87 Text and visual material in the ­Liahona may be copied Grow, C. Scott, 108 for incidental, noncommercial church or home use. Easter, 114 Sabbath, 6 Visual material may not be copied if restrictions are Holland, Jeffrey R., 111 Example, 10, 121, 125 Sacrament, 6 indicated in the credit line with the artwork. Copyright Johnson, Paul V., 78 Faith, 18, 34, 42, 53, 70, 78, Sacrifice, 90 questions should be addressed to Intellectual Property Maynes, Richard J., 37 Office, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 87, 101, 106, 125 Saints, 106 84150, USA; e-mail: cor-intellectualproperty@ Monson, Thomas S., 4, 66, Family, 10, 18, 37, 90, 94 Scriptures, 30 ldschurch.org. 90, 114 General conference, 111, Second Coming, 49 For Readers in the United States and Canada: Nelson, Russell M., 34 114 Self-reliance, 22, 81, 84 May 2011 Vol. 35 No. 5. LIAHONA (USPS 311-480) Oaks, Dallin H., 42 English (ISSN 1080-9554) is published monthly by Holy Ghost, 30, 40, 58, 70, Service, 22, 46, 55, 58, 70, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Packer, Boyd K., 30 87, 111 81, 84, 118 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150. USA Perry, L. Tom, 6 Honesty, 121 Standards, 111 subscription price is $10.00 per year; Canada, $12.00 Pratt, Carl B., 101 plus applicable taxes. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Hope, 53 Teaching, 37 Lake City, Utah. Sixty days’ notice required for change Richards, Kent F., 15 Humanitarian aid, 4 Temples, 4, 90, 115 of address. Include address label from a recent issue; Robbins, Lynn G., 103 Humility, 10, 15 Testimony, 40, 66, 125 old and new address must be included. Send USA and Samuelson, Cecil O., Jr., 40 Canadian subscriptions to Salt Lake Distribution Center Jesus Christ, 6, 13, 15, 30, Tithing, 10, 34, 101 at address below. 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May 2011 3 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION | April 2, 2011

By President Thomas S. Monson It’s Conference Once Again Thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel, for the love and care you show to one another, and for the service you provide.

hen this building was The past six months seem to have planned, we thought passed rapidly as I’ve been busy with Wwe’d never fill it. Just many responsibilities. One of the look at it now. great blessings during this time was to My beloved brothers and sisters, rededicate the beautiful Laie Hawaii how good it is to be together once Temple, which had been undergoing again as we begin the 181st Annual extensive renovations for nearly two General Conference of The Church years. I was accompanied by President of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. and Sister Henry B. Eyring, Elder and

Sister Quentin L. Cook, and Elder and Sister William R. Walker. During the evening prior to the rededication, which took place during November, we watched 2,000 young people from the temple district as they filled the Cannon Activities Center on the BYU–Hawaii campus and performed for us. Their production was titled “The Gathering Place” and creatively and masterfully recounted significant 4 events in local Church history and the and which, in coming months and ourselves but also for our deceased history of the temple. What a wonder- years, will be built in the following loved ones who are unable to do so ful evening it was! locations: Fort Collins, Colorado; for themselves. The following day was a spiritual Meridian, Idaho; and Winnipeg, The Church continues to provide feast as the temple was rededicated in Manitoba, Canada. They will certainly humanitarian aid in times of disas- three sessions. The Spirit of the Lord be a blessing to our members in ter. Most recently our hearts and our was with us in rich abundance. those areas. help have gone out to follow- We continue to build temples. Each year millions of ordinances ing the devastating earthquake and It is my privilege this morning to are performed in the temples. May tsunami and the resultant nuclear announce three additional temples we continue to be faithful in per- challenges. We have distributed over for which sites are being acquired forming such ordinances, not only for 70 tons of supplies, including food,

May 2011 5 water, blankets, bedding, hygiene By Elder L. Tom Perry items, clothing, and fuel. Our young Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles single adults have volunteered their time to locate missing members using the Internet, social media, and other modern means of communica- tion. Members are delivering aid via The Sabbath and scooters provided by the Church to areas that are difficult to reach by car. Service projects to assemble hygiene the Sacrament kits and cleaning kits are being orga- nized in multiple stakes and wards in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. Thus Let your family be filled with love as you honor the far, over 40,000 hours of service have Sabbath all day long and experience its spiritual blessings been donated by more than 4,000 throughout the week. volunteers. Our help will be ongoing in Japan and in any other areas where there is need. My brothers and sisters, I thank y brothers and sisters, across to be found in our study of the New you for your faith and devotion to the world this morning Testament. I always enjoy reading the gospel, for the love and care you M we have come to listen to the accounts of Paul as he traveled show to one another, and for the a prophet’s voice. I testify that the and organized the Savior’s Church, service you provide in your wards voice we have just heard is the voice especially his teachings to Timothy. In and branches and stakes and dis- of God’s living prophet on the earth the fourth chapter of Paul’s writings tricts. Thank you, as well, for your today, President Thomas S. Monson. to Timothy, we read: “These things faithfulness in paying your tithes and How blessed we are to have his teach- command and teach. . . . Be thou an offerings and for your generosity in ings and example! example of the believers, in word, in contributing to the other funds of This year all of us have the opportu- conversation, in charity, in spirit, in the Church. nity to study the words of the proph- faith, in purity.” 1 I can think of no better As of the end of the year 2010, ets in the New Testament in Sunday way for us to begin or continue to be there were 52,225 missionaries serving School. While the Old Testament is a an example of the believers than in our in 340 missions throughout the world. study of prophets and a people, the observance of the Sabbath day. Missionary work is the lifeblood of New Testament is focused on the life Beginning with the Creation of the the kingdom. May I suggest that if you and influence of the only Man who world, one day was set apart from all are able, you might consider making a came into mortality with dual citizen- others. “And God blessed the seventh contribution to the General Missionary ship in heaven and on earth—our day, and sanctified it.” 2 Even God Fund of the Church. Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. rested from His labors on this day, Now, brothers and sisters, we are The world today is so saturated and He expects His children to do the anxious to listen to the messages with doctrines of men that it is easy same. To the children of Israel, He which will be presented to us today to forget and lose faith in that all- delivered the commandment: and tomorrow. Those who will important account of the Savior’s life “Remember the sabbath day, to address us have sought heaven’s help and ministry—the New Testament. keep it holy. and direction as they have prepared This sacred volume is the centerpiece “Six days shalt thou labour, and do their messages. That we may be filled of scriptural history, just as the Savior all thy work: with the Spirit of the Lord and be Himself should be the centerpiece of “But the seventh day is the sabbath uplifted and inspired as we listen and our lives. We must commit ourselves of the Lord thy God. . . . learn is my prayer. In the name of to study it and treasure it! “. . . Wherefore the Lord blessed Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ There are priceless pearls of wisdom the sabbath day, and hallowed it.” 3 6 The pattern of Sabbath day observance must always include worship. After Adam and Eve entered mortality, they were commanded to “worship the Lord their God, and . . . offer the firstlings of their flocks [as] an offering unto the Lord . . . [in] similitude of the sacrifice of the Only Begotten of the Father.” 4 The sacrifice of animals reminded Adam’s posterity that one day the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, would make a sacrifice of His own life for us. Throughout His life the Savior spoke of that sacrifice.5 On the eve of His Crucifixion, His words began to be fulfilled. He gathered His disciples together in the upper room, away from the distractions of the world. He instituted the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. “And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; “For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” 6 From that time forward, the Savior’s Atonement became the great and last sacrifice. When He appeared on the American continent after His Resurrection, He conferred His priest- hood upon His disciples and intro- pattern of Sabbath day worship and Conferred by the Savior to His duced the sacrament by saying: the sacrament continued to be prac- prophets and apostles and from “And this shall ye always observe ticed in many forms. them to us, that priesthood authority to do, . . . even as I have broken bread When the gospel was restored, continues on the earth today. Young and blessed it and given it unto you. Peter, James, and John, three of the priesthood holders across the world “. . . And it shall be a testimony Apostles who first received the sac- qualify themselves to exercise priest- unto the Father that ye do always rament from the Savior, appeared to hood power by earnestly keeping the remember me. And if ye do always and . commandments and living gospel remember me ye shall have my Spirit Under their direction, the priesthood standards. As these young men keep to be with you.” 7 authority necessary to administer spiritually clean hands and pure It is remarkable that even through the sacrament to the members of the hearts, they prepare and bless the the dark periods of apostasy, this Church was restored.8 sacrament in the Savior’s way—a way

May 2011 7 unspotted from the world, He expects us to avoid such worldly distractions of businesses and recreational facilities on the Sabbath day. I believe He also desires us to dress appropriately. Our youth may think the old saying “Sunday best” is outdated. Still, we know that when Sunday dress deteriorates to everyday attire, attitudes and actions follow. Of course, it may not be necessary for our children to wear formal Sunday attire until the sun goes down. However, by the cloth- ing we encourage them to wear and the activities we plan, we help them prepare for the sacrament and enjoy its blessings throughout the day. What does it mean to offer up our sacraments to the Lord? We acknowl- edge that all of us make mistakes. Each of us has a need to confess and forsake our sins and errors to our Heavenly Father and to others we may have offended. The Sabbath provides us with a precious opportunity to offer up these—our sacraments—to the Lord. He said, “Remember that on this, the Lord’s day, thou shalt offer thine oblations and thy sacraments unto the Most High, confessing thy sins unto thy brethren, and before the Lord.” 11 Elder Melvin J. Ballard has sug- gested, “We want every Latter-day Saint defined by what He did over 2,000 “And on this day thou shalt do to come to the sacrament table because years ago. none other thing.” 9 it is the place for self-investigation, for Partaking of the sacrament is the As we consider the pattern of the self-inspection, where we may learn to center of our Sabbath day observance. Sabbath and the sacrament in our own rectify our course and to make right our In the Doctrine and Covenants, the lives, there appear to be three things own lives, bringing ourselves into har- Lord commands all of us: the Lord requires of us: first, to keep mony with the teachings of the Church “And that thou mayest more fully ourselves unspotted from the world; and with our brethren and sisters.” 12 keep thyself unspotted from the second, to go to the house of prayer As we worthily partake of the world, thou shalt go to the house of and offer up our sacraments; and sacrament, we witness that we are prayer and offer up thy sacraments third, to rest from our labors. willing to take the Savior’s name upon upon my holy day; It is a glorious thing to be a us and keep His commandments and “For verily this is a day appointed Christian and to live as a true disciple do always remember Him, that we may unto you to rest from your labors, of Christ. Of us He said, “They are have His Spirit to be with us. In this way and to pay thy devotions unto the not of the world, even as I am not the covenant of our baptism is renewed. Most High. . . . of the world.” 10 To keep ourselves The Lord assured His disciples, “As oft 8 as ye do this ye will remember this hour was remodeled. A compartment in wards and branches. Let us prepare and that I was with you.” 13 the pulpit had been sealed. When it conduct ourselves on the Sabbath in a Sometimes we think of resting from was opened, there were some of these manner that will call down the bless- our labors as merely letting the hay little glass cups that had remained ings promised us upon ourselves and baler stand idle in the field or putting a hidden for years. One of them was our families. I bear my special witness Closed sign on the business door. Yet in presented to me as a memento. that the greatest joy we receive in this today’s world, labor includes the every- I also remember the green footlocker life is in following the Savior. May we day work of our lives. This could mean we carried with us in the U.S. Marine keep His commandments by keeping business activities we may accomplish Corps. Inside the footlocker was a His sacred day holy is my prayer in the from home, athletic competitions, and wooden tray and package of sacrament name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ other pursuits that take us away from cups so that we could be blessed by the Sabbath day worship and the opportu- peace and hope of the Lord’s Supper NOTES 1. 1 Timothy 4:11–12. nity to minister to others. even in the conflict and despair of war. 2. Genesis 2:3. “Trifle not with sacred things,” 14 the As I think about those sacrament 3. Exodus 20:8–11. Lord revealed to the Latter-day Saints, as cups from my youth, one in the shel- 4. Moses 5:5, 7. 5. See, for example, Mark 10:32–34; John if to remind us of what He told His dis- tered valley of my boyhood home and 2:19; 10:17; 12:32. ciples: “The sabbath was made for man, the other thousands of miles away in 6. Matthew 26:26–28. and not man for the sabbath.” 15 the Pacific, I am filled with gratitude 7. 3 Nephi 18:6–7. 8. See Joseph Smith—History 1:68–69, 72; see Brothers and sisters, in the latter that the Savior of the world was will- also Doctrine and Covenants 27:12–13. days the adversary succeeds when we ing to drink from the “bitter cup” 17 for 9. Doctrine and Covenants 59:9–10, 13. relax our commitment to the Savior, my sake. And because He did, I can 10. John 17:16. 11. Doctrine and Covenants 59:12. ignore His teachings in the New say with the Psalmist, “My cup runneth 12. In Bryant S. Hinckley, Sermons and Testament and other scripture, and over” 18 with the blessings of His infi- Missionary Services of Melvin Joseph cease to follow Him. Parents, now is nite and eternal Atonement. Ballard (1949), 150. 13. Joseph Smith Translation, Mark 14:21, in the time to teach our children to be On this day before the Sabbath, as Bible appendix. examples of the believers by attend- we begin this great conference, let us 14. Doctrine and Covenants 6:12. ing sacrament meeting. When Sunday remember the blessings and oppor- 15. Mark 2:27. 16. Doctrine and Covenants 115:5. morning arrives, help them to be well tunities that are ours as we attend 17. 3 Nephi 11:11. rested, properly dressed, and spiritually sacrament meeting each week in our 18. Psalm 23:5. prepared to partake of the emblems of the sacrament and receive the enlight- Kyiv, Ukraine ening, edifying, ennobling power of the Holy Ghost. Let your family be filled with love as you honor the Sabbath all day long and experience its spiritual blessings throughout the week. Invite your sons and daughters to “arise and shine forth” by keeping the Sabbath day holy, that “[their] light may be a standard for the nations.” 16 As the years go by, I continue to reflect on the Sabbath days of my youth and young adulthood. I still remember the first day I passed the sacrament as a deacon and the little glass cups I passed to the mem- bers of our ward. A few years ago a Church building in my hometown

May 2011 9 By Jean A. Stevens greatest in the kingdom of heaven” First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency (Matthew 18:3–4). What is it we should learn from children? What qualities do they possess and what examples do they demonstrate that can help us in our Become as own spiritual development? These precious children of God come to us with believing hearts. a Little Child They are full of faith and receptive to feelings of the Spirit. They exemplify humility, obedience, and love. They If we have a heart to learn and a willingness to follow the are often the first to love and the first example of children, their divine attributes can hold a key to forgive. to unlocking our own spiritual growth. Let me share some experiences of how children can bless our lives with their innocent yet powerful examples of Christlike attributes. ur Father in Heaven, in His children said they would. And they did. Todd, a little boy just two years great wisdom and love, sends The bishop later went to the adults old, recently went with his mother to OHis spirit sons and daughters in the ward and shared with them that an art museum that was showing a to this earth as children. They come to for the past six months their faithful special exhibit of beautiful paintings families as precious gifts with a divine children had been paying tithing. He of the Savior. As they walked past nature and destiny. Our Heavenly asked them if they would be willing to these sacred images, she heard her Father knows children are a key to follow the example of these children little boy reverently saying the name helping us become like Him. There is and do the same. The people were so “Jesus.” She looked down to see him so much we can learn from children. touched by the sacrifices the chil- folding his arms and bowing his head This important truth was evidenced dren were willing to make that they as he viewed the paintings. Could we some years ago as a member of the did what was necessary to pay their learn from Todd something about an Seventy was on assignment in Hong tithing. And the windows of heaven attitude of humility, of reverence, and Kong. He visited a very humble ward were opened. With the example of of love for the Lord? that was struggling in many ways, these faithful children, a ward grew in Last fall I watched the example unable to provide for its own needs. obedience and in testimony. of a 10-year-old boy in Armenia. As As the bishop described their situation, It was Jesus Christ Himself who we waited for sacrament meeting to the felt the impres- taught us to look to children as an begin, he noticed the oldest member sion to have the members pay their example. The New Testament records of the branch arrive. He was the one tithing. The bishop, knowing their dire His answer when His Apostles disputed who quickly went to her side, offering circumstances, was concerned about who should be the greatest in the king- his arm to steady her faltering steps. how he could carry out that counsel. dom of heaven. Jesus answered their He assisted her to the front row of the He thought about it and decided he question with a small yet powerful chapel, where she could hear. Could would approach some of the most object lesson. He called a little child to his small act of kindness teach us that faith-filled members of his ward and Him and set him in the midst of them those who are greatest in the Lord’s ask them to pay their tithing. The and said: kingdom are those who look for next Sunday he went to the Primary. “Except ye be converted, and opportunities to serve others? He taught the children about the become as little children, ye shall not Katie, a Primary-age girl, taught us Lord’s law of tithing and asked if enter into the kingdom of heaven. as we saw her influence on her family. they would be willing to pay tith- “Whosoever therefore shall humble She attended Primary and was drawn ing on the money they earned. The himself as this little child, the same is to the teachings of the gospel. With 10 be necessary. During these radiation treatments, he was required to be all alone and lie absolutely still. Liam did not want to be sedated because he disliked the way it made him feel. He was determined that if he could just hear his dad’s voice over the intercom, he could lie still without the sedative. During these anxious times, his dad spoke to him with words of encouragement and love. “Liam, although you can’t see me, I am right here. I know you can do it. I love you.” Liam successfully accomplished the 33 required radiation treatments while holding perfectly still, a feat his doctors thought would be impossible without sedation for one so young. Through months of pain and difficulty, Liam’s contagious optimism has been a powerful example of meeting adver- sity with hope and even happiness. His doctors, nurses, and countless oth- ers have been inspired by his courage. We are all learning important les- sons from Liam—lessons about choos- ing faith and trusting in the Lord. Just like Liam, we cannot see our Heavenly Father, but we can listen for His voice to give us the strength we need to endure the challenges of life. Could Liam’s example help us to bet- ter understand King Benjamin’s words to become as a child—submissive, meek, humble, patient, and full of love? (see Mosiah 3:19). growing faith and testimony, Katie their family together forever. Katie’s These children are providing exam- left a note on her parents’ pillow. She believing heart and example of faith ples of some of the childlike qualities wrote that the gospel truths had found helped bring eternal blessings to her we need to develop or rediscover in a “home in her heart.” She shared her family. Could her sincere testimony ourselves in order to enter into the longing to be close to her Heavenly and desire to follow the Lord’s plan kingdom of heaven. They are bright Father, to be obedient to His com- lead us to see more clearly what really spirits who are untarnished by the mandments, and to have their family matters most? world—teachable and full of faith. It sealed in the temple. The simple testi- Our family is learning from a close is no wonder the Savior has a spe- mony of their sweet daughter touched relative, six-year-old Liam. This past cial love and appreciation for little her parents’ hearts in a powerful year he has battled aggressive brain children. way. Katie and her family did receive cancer. After two difficult surgeries, it Among the transcendent events of sacred temple ordinances that bound was decided that radiation would also the Savior’s visit to the Americas, His

May 2011 11 families. Home is a place where we can all learn and grow together. One of our beautiful Primary songs teaches this truth:

God gave us families To help us become what He wants us to be— This is how He shares His love, For the fam’ly is of God. (“The Family Is of God,” ­Liahona, Oct. 2008, F12–13; Friend, Oct. 2008, 28–29)

It is here in our families, in an atmosphere of love, where we see and appreciate in a more personal way the divine attributes of His spirit children. It is here in our families where our hearts can be softened and in humility we desire to change, to become more childlike. It is a process by which we can become more Christlike. Have some of life’s experiences taken from you the believing heart and childlike faith you once had? If so, look around at the children in your life. And then look again. They may be children in your family, across the street, or in the Primary in your ward. If we have a heart to learn and a willingness to follow the example of children, their divine attributes can hold a key to tender ministry to the children stands didn’t say ‘glance at them’ or ‘casu- unlocking our own spiritual growth. apart. In a poignant way He reached ally observe them’ or ‘occasionally I will always be grateful for the out to each child. take a look in their general direction.’ blessing of my own children. The “And he took their little children, He said to behold them. To me that example of each one has taught me one by one, and blessed them, and means that we should embrace them lessons I need. They have helped me prayed unto the Father for them. with our eyes and with our hearts; to change for the better. “And when he had done this he we should see and appreciate them I bear my humble but certain wept. . . . for who they really are: spirit children testimony that Jesus is the Christ. He “And he spake unto the multitude, of our Heavenly Father, with divine is the one perfect Son—submissive, and said unto them: Behold your little attributes” (“Behold Your Little Ones,” meek, humble, patient, and so full of ones” (3 Nephi 17:21–23). Tambuli, Oct. 1994, 40; emphasis love. May each of us have a heart to Elder M. Russell Ballard has taught added; “Great Shall Be the Peace of follow His example, to become as a us the importance of the Savior’s Thy Children,” ­Ensign, Apr. 1994, 59). little child, and thereby return to our admonition to “behold your little There is not a more perfect place heavenly home, I pray in the name of ones” when he said: “Notice that He to behold our little ones than in our Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 12 By Elder Walter F. González whipped and mocked, even when it Of the Presidency of the Seventy meant that His enemies would torture Him while His friends abandoned Him. The atoning sacrifice, which is unique to the of the Savior, is the greatest expression of love ever. Followers of Christ “The chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are Followers of Christ pattern their lives after the Savior healed.” 3 to walk in the light. As Christ followed the Father under any circumstance, we should follow His Son. If we do so, it matters not what kind of persecution, suffering, grief, or “thorn in the flesh” 4 we face. ast October my wife and I know for himself or herself that the We are not alone. Christ will assist accompanied Elder and Sister Prophet Joseph Smith saw the Father us. His tender mercies will make us L Neil L. Andersen for the ground- and the Son in a vision. He or she mighty under any circumstance. 5 breaking of a new temple in Córdoba, can know that heavenly messengers Following Christ may mean for- Argentina. As is customary, a press restored the priesthood and that the saking many dear things, as Ruth the conference followed the ceremony. A Book of Mormon is another testament Moabite did. As a new convert, out journalist, not a member of our church, of Jesus Christ. In the words of the of love for God and Naomi, she left commented that she had observed how Lord to Enoch, “Righteousness [has everything behind to live her religion. 6 well the men treated their wives. Then been sent] down out of heaven; and It may also mean withstanding she unexpectedly asked, “Is that real or truth [has been sent] forth out of the adversity and temptation. In his youth fiction?” I am sure that she saw and felt earth to [testify of the] Only Begotten Joseph was sold into slavery. He was something different among our mem- [of the Father].” 1 taken away from everything he loved. bers. She might have perceived the The Savior has promised, “He Later he was tempted to be unchaste. desire of our members to follow Christ. that followeth me shall not walk in He resisted the temptation and said, Members all over the world have such darkness, but shall have the light of “How then can I do this great wicked- a desire. At the same time, millions life.” 2 Followers of Christ pattern their ness, and sin against God?” 7 His love who are not members of the Church lives after the Savior to walk in the for God was more powerful than any also have a desire to follow Him. light. Two characteristics can help us adversity or temptation. Recently my wife and I were recognize to what extent we follow Today we have modern Ruths and impressed by the people we saw in Him. First, followers of Christ are lov- Josephs all over the world. When Ghana and . Most were not ing people. Second, followers of Christ Brother Jimmy Olvera from Guayaquil, members of our church. We were make and keep covenants. Ecuador, received his mission call, happy to see their desire to follow The first characteristic, being loving, his family was struggling greatly. The Christ expressed in many of their con- is probably one thing the journalist in day he was leaving, he was told that versations in their houses, on their cars, Córdoba noticed among our Church if he walked out the door, he would on their walls, and on their billboards. members. We follow Christ because lose his family. With a broken heart he We had never seen so many Christian we love Him. When we follow the walked out that door. While he was churches next to one another. Redeemer out of love, we are follow- on his mission, his mother asked him As Latter-day Saints, ours is the ing His own example. Through love to stay longer in the field because they duty to invite millions such as these the Savior was obedient to the will of were receiving so many blessings. to come and see what our church the Father under any circumstance. Today Brother Olvera serves as a stake can add to the good things that they Our Savior was obedient even when patriarch. already have. Any person from any it meant great physical and emo- Truly loving Christ provides the continent, climate, or culture can tional pain, even when it meant being required strength to follow Him. The

May 2011 13 your sins, that ye become holy, with- out spot.” 11 The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that even before the organization of this earth, covenants were made in heaven. 12 Ancient prophets and patri- archs made covenants. The Savior Himself gave the example. He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness by one with the proper authority. Through His baptism, the Savior witnessed unto the Father that He would be obedient in keeping all the Father’s commandments. 13 As in days of old, we also follow Christ and make covenants through priesthood ordinances. Making covenants is something that millions who are not members of our church can add to the very good things that they already have. Making covenants is an expression of love. It is a way of saying to Him, “Yes, I will follow Thee because I love Thee.” Covenants include promises, “even of life eternal.” 14 All things will work together for our good if we remember our covenants. 15 They must be made and kept to fully receive the promises they provide. Love for the Savior and remembering our covenants will help us keep them. Partaking of the sacra- ment is one way to remember them. 16 Another way is to attend the temple Lord Himself showed this when He obedience to gospel principles. The often. I remember a young married asked Peter three times, “Lovest thou way we treat others reflects to what couple in who wanted me?” After Peter reaffirmed his love for extent we follow our Savior in loving to separate because they could not get Him out loud, the Lord told Peter about one another. 9 We show our love for along. A priesthood leader counseled upcoming difficulties. Then the admo- Him when we stop to assist others, them to attend the temple and pay nition came: “Follow me.” The Savior’s when we are “perfectly honest and specific attention to the words and question to Peter can also be asked of upright in all things,” 10 and when we promises of the covenants made there. us: “Lovest thou me?” followed by the make and keep covenants. They did so and their marriage was call to action: “Follow me.” 8 The second characteristic that saved. The power of our covenants is Love is a powerful influence in our followers of Christ have is making and greater than any challenge we face or hearts in our effort to be obedient. keeping covenants, as He did. Moroni we may face. Love for our Savior inspires us to keep pointed out that “the shedding of the To those members who are not His commandments. Love for a mother, blood of Christ . . . is in the covenant active in the gospel, please come back. father, or spouse can also inspire our of the Father unto the remission of Feel the blessing of remembering and 14 renewing covenants through the sac- By Elder Kent F. Richards rament and temple attendance. Doing Of the Seventy so is an expression of love and shows a willingness to be a true follower of Christ. It will qualify you to receive all the promised blessings. To those who are not members of The Atonement our church, I invite you to exercise faith, repent, and qualify to receive the covenant of baptism in The Church Covers All Pain of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. By doing so, you will show your love to our Heavenly Father and your willing- Our great personal challenge in mortality is to become ness to follow Christ. “a saint through the atonement of Christ.” I testify that we are happier when we follow the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we strive to follow Him, the blessings of heaven will s a surgeon, I found that a that allows you to ponder. It is an come unto us. I know His promises significant portion of my experience I am grateful to have will be fulfilled as we make and keep A professional time was taken endured. . . . covenants and become true followers up with the subject of pain. Of neces- “I learned that the physical pain of Christ. I testify of His great love sity I surgically inflicted it almost daily— and the healing of the body after major for each one of us, and I do so in the and much of my effort was then spent surgery are remarkably similar to the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ trying to control and alleviate pain. spiritual pain and the healing of the I have pondered about the purpose soul in the process of repentance.” 2 NOTES 1. Moses 7:62. of pain. None of us is immune from Much of our suffering is not 2. John 8:12. experiencing pain. I have seen people necessarily our fault. Unexpected 3. Isaiah 53:5. cope with it very differently. Some events, contradicting or disappointing 4. 2 Corinthians 12:7. 5. See 1 Nephi 1:20. turn away from God in anger, and oth- circumstances, interrupting illness, and 6. See Ruth 1:16. ers allow their suffering to bring them even death surround us and penetrate 7. See Genesis 39:7–9. closer to God. our mortal experience. Additionally, 8. See John 21:15–19. 9. See John 13:35. Like you, I have experienced pain we may suffer afflictions because of 10. Alma 27:27. myself. Pain is a gauge of the healing the actions of others. 3 Lehi noted that 11. Moroni 10:33. process. It often teaches us patience. Jacob had “suffered . . . much sorrow, 12. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 42; see also Perhaps that is why we use the term because of the rudeness of [his] breth- Spencer W. Kimball, “Be Ye Therefore patient in referring to the sick. ren.” 4 Opposition is part of Heavenly Perfect” (devotional address, Salt Lake Elder Orson F. Whitney wrote: “No Father’s plan of happiness. We all Institute of Religion, Jan. 10, 1975): “We made vows, solemn vows, in the heavens pain that we suffer, no trial that we encounter enough to bring us to an before we came to this mortal life. . . . experience is wasted. It ministers to awareness of our Father’s love and of We have made covenants. We made them our education, to the development of our need for the Savior’s help. before we accepted our position here on the earth.” such qualities as patience, faith, for- The Savior is not a silent observer. 13. See 2 Nephi 31:5–7. titude, and humility. . . . It is through He Himself knows personally and 14. Abraham 2:11. See also John A. Widtsoe, sorrow and suffering, toil and tribula- infinitely the pain we face. “Temple Worship” (lecture, Assembly Hall, Salt Lake City, Oct. 12, 1920), 10: “The tion, that we gain the education that “He suffereth the pains of all men, covenant gives life to truth; and makes we come here to acquire.” 1 yea, the pains of every living creature, possible the blessings that reward all those Similarly, Elder Robert D. Hales both men, women, and children.” 5 who use knowledge properly.” 15. See Doctrine and Covenants 90:24. has said: “Let us therefore come boldly unto 16. See, for example, 3 Nephi 18:7–11. “Pain brings you to a humility the throne of grace, that we may

May 2011 15 obtain mercy, and find grace to help go forth, suffering pains and afflictions by revelation, but He chose to learn by in time of need.” 6 and temptations of every kind; and . . . His own personal experience.” 14 Sometimes in the depth of pain, he will take upon him the pains and I felt the encircling arms of His love we are tempted to ask, “Is there no the sicknesses of his people. . . . that night. 15 Tears watered my pillow balm in Gilead; is there no physician “That his bowels may be filled with in gratitude. Later, as I was reading in there?” 7 I testify the answer is yes, mercy, . . . that he may know accord- Matthew about Christ’s mortal minis- there is a physician. The Atonement of ing to the flesh how to succor his try, I made another discovery: “When Jesus Christ covers all these conditions people according to their infirmities.” 12 the even was come, they brought unto and purposes of mortality. Late one night lying in a hospital him many . . . and he . . . healed all There is another kind of pain for bed, this time as a patient and not as that were sick.” 16 He healed all that which we are responsible. Spiritual pain a physician, I read those verses over came to Him. None were turned away. lies deep within our souls and can feel and over again. I pondered: “How is it As Elder Dallin H. Oaks has taught: unquenchable, even as being racked done? For whom? What is required to “Healing blessings come in many with an “inexpressible horror,” as Alma qualify? Is it like forgiveness of sin? Do ways, each suited to our individual described. 8 It comes from our sinful we have to earn His love and help?” needs, as known to Him who loves us actions and lack of repentance. For this As I pondered, I came to understand best. Sometimes a ‘healing’ cures our pain too there is a cure that is univer- that during His mortal life Christ chose illness or lifts our burden. But some- sal and absolute. It is from the Father, to experience pains and afflictions in times we are ‘healed’ by being given through the Son, and it is for each of us order to understand us. Perhaps we strength or understanding or patience who is willing to do all that is necessary also need to experience the depths of to bear the burdens placed upon us.” 17 to repent. Christ said, “Will ye not now mortality in order to understand Him All that will come may be “clasped return unto me . . . and be converted, and our eternal purposes. 13 in the arms of Jesus.” 18 All souls can that I may heal you?” 9 President Henry B. Eyring taught: “It be healed by His power. All pain can Christ Himself taught: will comfort us when we must wait in be soothed. In Him, we can “find rest “And my Father sent me that I distress for the Savior’s promised relief unto [our] souls.” 19 Our mortal circum- might be lifted up upon the cross; and that He knows, from experience, how stances may not immediately change, after that I had been lifted up upon to heal and help us. . . . And faith in that but our pain, worry, suffering, and fear the cross, that I might draw all men power will give us patience as we pray can be swallowed up in His peace and unto me. . . . and work and wait for help. He could healing balm. “Therefore, according to the power have known how to succor us simply I have noted that children are often of the Father I will draw all men unto me.” 10 Guayaquil, Ecuador Perhaps His most significant work is in the ongoing labor with each of us individually to lift, to bless, to strengthen, to sustain, to guide, and to forgive us. As Nephi saw in vision, much of Christ’s mortal ministry was devoted to blessing and healing the sick with all kinds of maladies—physical, emo- tional, and spiritual. “And I beheld multitudes of people who were sick, and who were afflicted with all man- ner of diseases. . . . And they were healed by the power of the Lamb of God.” 11 Alma also prophesied that “he shall 16 more naturally accepting of pain and suffering. They quietly endure with humility and meekness. I have felt a beautiful, sweet spirit surrounding these little ones. Thirteen-year-old Sherrie under- went a 14-hour operation for a tumor on her spinal cord. As she regained consciousness in the intensive care unit, she said: “Daddy, Aunt Cheryl is here, . . . and . . . Grandpa Norman . . . and Grandma Brown . . . are here. And Daddy, who is that stand- ing beside you? . . . He looks like you, only taller. . . . He says he’s your brother, Jimmy.” Her uncle Jimmy had died at age 13 of cystic fibrosis. “For nearly an hour, Sherrie . . . described her visitors, all deceased family members. Exhausted, she then fell asleep.” Later she told her father, “Daddy, all of the children here in the intensive care unit have angels helping them.” 20 To all of us the Savior said: “Behold, ye are little children and ye cannot bear all things now; ye must grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. In Him we can find peace and solace 13. See , The Mediation and “Fear not, little children, for you are in and from our pain and our sins if we Atonement (1882), 97. President Taylor writes of a “covenant” being entered into mine. . . . will but come unto Him with humble between the Father and the Son in the “Wherefore, I am in your midst, hearts. His “grace is sufficient.” 25 In the premortal councils for the accomplishment and I am the good shepherd.” 21 name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ of the atoning redemption of mankind. Our great personal challenge in Christ’s voluntary suffering during life was NOTES in addition to the suffering in the garden mortality is to become “a saint through 1. Orson F. Whitney, in Spencer W. Kimball, and on the cross (see Mosiah 3:5–8). the atonement of Christ.” 22 The pain Faith Precedes the Miracle (1972), 98. 14. Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity,” ­Liahona and you and I experience may be where 2. Robert D. Hales, “Healing Soul and Body,” ­Ensign, May 2009, 24; emphasis added. ­Ensign, Nov. 1998, 14. 15. See Doctrine and Covenants 6:20. this process is most measured. In 3. See Alma 31:31, 33. 16. Matthew 8:16; emphasis added. extremity, we can become as children 4. 2 Nephi 2:1. 17. Dallin H. Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden,” 5. 2 Nephi 9:21. ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2006, 7–8. in our hearts, humble ourselves, and 18. Mormon 5:11. 23 6. Hebrews 4:16. Paul taught us to look to the “pray and work and wait” patiently Savior as an example in dealing with the 19. Matthew 11:29. for the healing of our bodies and “contradictions of sinners against [us], lest 20. See Michael R. Morris, “Sherrie’s Shield of our souls. As Job, after being refined [we] be wearied and faint in [our] minds” Faith,” ­Ensign, June 1995, 46. (Hebrews 12:3). 21. Doctrine and Covenants 50:40–41, 44. through our trials, we “shall come 7. Jeremiah 8:22. 22. Mosiah 3:19. forth as gold.” 24 8. Alma 36:14. 23. Henry B. Eyring, ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May I bear testimony that He is our 9. 3 Nephi 9:13. 2009, 24. 10. 3 Nephi 27:14–15; emphasis added. 24. Job 23:10. Redeemer, our Friend, our Advocate, 11. 1 Nephi 11:31. 25. 2 Corinthians 12:9; see also Ether 12:26–27; the Great Physician, the Great Healer. 12. Alma 7:11–12; emphasis added. Doctrine and Covenants 18:31.

May 2011 17 By Elder Quentin L. Cook I believe . . . that my sufferings for the Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Gospel’s sake will be sanctified unto me for my good. . . . “I [appealed] to the Lord, . . . He who had promised to be a husband to the widow, and a father to the father- LDS Women less. I appealed to him and he came to my aid.” 4 Elizabeth said she was writing the Are Incredible! history on behalf of those who passed through like scenes with the hope that posterity would be willing to suffer Much of what we accomplish in the Church is due and sacrifice all things for the king- to the selfless service of women. dom of God.5

Women in the Church Today Are Strong and Valiant uthor and historian Wallace We know there are many chal- I believe the women of the Church Stegner wrote about the lenges for women, including those today meet that challenge and are A Mormon migration and striving to live the gospel. every bit as strong and faithful. The gathering to the Salt Lake Valley. He priesthood leadership of this Church did not accept our faith and in many Heritage of Pioneer Sisters at all levels gratefully acknowledges ways was critical; nevertheless, he A predominant attribute in the lives the service, sacrifice, commitment, and was impressed with the devotion and of our pioneer ancestors is the faith of contribution of the sisters. heroism of our early Church mem- the sisters. Women by divine nature Much of what we accomplish in the bers, especially the women. He stated, have the greater gift and responsibility Church is due to the selfless service of “Their women were incredible.” 1 I for home and children and nurturing women. Whether in the Church or in echo that sentiment today. Our Latter- there and in other settings. In light of the home, it is a beautiful thing to see day Saint women are incredible! this, the faith of the sisters in being the priesthood and the Relief Society God placed within women divine willing to leave their homes to cross work in perfect harmony. Such a rela- qualities of strength, virtue, love, and the plains for the unknown was inspir- tionship is like a well-tuned orchestra, the willingness to sacrifice to raise ing. If one had to characterize their and the resulting symphony inspires all future generations of His spirit children. most significant attribute, it would be of us. A recent United States study asserts their unwavering faith in the restored When I was recently assigned to that women of all faiths “believe more gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. a conference in the Mission Viejo fervently in God” and attend more reli- The heroic accounts of what these Stake, I was touched by an gious services than men do. “By virtually pioneer women sacrificed and accom- account of their four-stake New Year’s every measure they are more religious.” 2 plished as they crossed the plains is Eve youth dance. Following the dance, I was not surprised by this result, a priceless legacy to the Church. I am a purse was found with no outside particularly as I reflected on the pre- moved by the account of Elizabeth identification. I share with you part eminent role of families and women Jackson, whose husband Aaron died of what Sister Monica Sedgwick, the in our faith. Our doctrine is clear: after the last crossing of the Platte Young Women president in the Laguna Women are daughters of our Heavenly River with the Martin handcart com- Niguel stake, recorded: “We didn’t want Father, who loves them. Wives are pany. She wrote: to pry; this was someone’s personal equal to their husbands. Marriage “I will not attempt to describe my stuff! So we gingerly opened it and requires a full partnership where feelings at finding myself thus left a grabbed the first thing that was on wives and husbands work side by side widow with three children, under top—hopefully, it would identify her. It to meet the needs of the family.3 such excruciating circumstances. . . . did, but in another way—it was a For 18 the Strength of Youth pamphlet. Wow! Then, yes, finally some identification. told her about the Relief Society, Young This told us something about her. Then The youth leaders said they felt greatly Women, and Primary organizations that we reached in for the next item, a little blessed “to observe the quiet example are guided by women presidents. We notebook. Surely this would give us of a young lady living the gospel.” 6 noted that from our earliest history both answers, but not the kind we were This account illustrates the commit- men and women pray, perform the expecting. The first page was a list of ment of our young women to Church music, give the sermons, and sing in the favorite scriptures. There were five standards.7 It is also an example of choir, even in sacrament meeting, our more pages of carefully written scrip- caring, interested, dedicated Young most sacred meeting. tures and personal notes.” Women leaders all over the world. The recent highly acclaimed The sisters immediately wanted to They are incredible! book American Grace reported on meet this stalwart young woman. They Sisters have key roles in the women in many faiths. It noted that returned to that purse to identify its Church, in family life, and as individ- Latter-day Saint women are unique owner. They pulled out some breath uals that are essential in Heavenly in being overwhelmingly satisfied mints, soap, lotion, and a brush. I Father’s plan. Many of these responsi- with their role in Church leadership.9 loved their comments: “Oh, good bilities do not provide economic com- Furthermore, Latter-day Saints as a things come out of her mouth; she has pensation but do provide satisfaction whole, men and women, have the clean and soft hands; and she takes and are eternally significant. Recently strongest attachment to their faith of care of herself.” a delightful and very capable woman any of the religions studied.10 They eagerly awaited the next on a newspaper editorial board asked Our women are not incredible treasure. Out came a clever little for a description of the role of women because they have managed to avoid homemade coin purse made from a in the Church. It was explained that the difficulties of life—quite the cardboard juice carton, and there was all of the leaders in our congregations opposite. They are incredible because some money in a zippered pocket. are unpaid. She interrupted to say her of the way they face the trials of life. They exclaimed, “Ahh, she’s creative interest had diminished significantly. Despite the challenges and tests life and prepared!” They felt like little chil- She said, “I don’t believe women need has to offer—from marriage or lack dren on Christmas morning. What they any more unpaid jobs.” of marriage, children’s choices, poor pulled out next surprised them even We pointed out that the most impor- health, lack of opportunities, and many more: a recipe for Black Forest choco- tant organization on earth is the family, other problems—they remain remark- late cake and a note to make the cake where “fathers and mothers are . . . ably strong and immovable and true for a friend’s birthday. They almost equal partners.” 8 Neither one is finan- to the faith. Our sisters throughout the screamed, “She’s a HOMEMAKER! cially compensated, but the blessings Church consistently “succor the weak, Thoughtful and service minded.” are beyond description. We of course lift up the hands which hang down,

May 2011 19 and strengthen the feeble knees.” 11 and individual men and women. In missions. She said many of them knew One Relief Society president who the Church the role of women in the they had disappointed bishops and acknowledged this extraordinary home is highly respected.16 When the priesthood leaders who had strongly service said, “Even when the sisters mother receives a Church calling that encouraged them to serve a mission, serve, they are thinking, ‘If only I could requires significant time, the father and they now felt like second-class have done more!’” Though they are not will often be given a less-demanding members of the Church. She pointed perfect and all face individual struggles, calling in order to maintain balance in out that these young men were their faith in a loving Father in Heaven the lives of the family. beyond missionary age. She expressed and the assurance of the atoning sacri- Several years ago I attended a stake her love and concern for them. She fice of the Savior permeates their lives. conference in . Sunday morn- explained that all of the saving ordi- ing the three front rows of the chapel nances were still available to them and Role of Sisters in the Church were filled with men between 26 and the focus should be on priesthood During the last three years, the First 35 years of age. I assumed they were a ordinations and the ordinances of the Presidency and the Quorum of the men’s choir. But when the business of temple. She noted that while some of Twelve have sought guidance, inspira- the conference was conducted, each of these young men were still single, the tion, and revelation as we have coun- these men, 63 in total, stood up as their majority of them had married won- seled with priesthood and auxiliary names were read and were sustained derful women—some active, some leaders and worked on the new Church for ordination to the Melchizedek inactive, and some not members. handbooks. In this process I have Priesthood. I was both pleased and After thorough discussion in the experienced feelings of overwhelming stunned. stake council, it was decided that the appreciation for the essential role that After the session I asked President men of the priesthood and the women sisters, both married and single, have Mateaki, the stake president, how this of the Relief Society would reach out historically played and now play both miracle had been accomplished. He to rescue these men and their wives, in the family and in the Church. told me that in a stake council meeting while the bishops spent more of their All members of the Church of Jesus reactivation was being discussed. His time with the young men and young Christ are “to labor in his vineyard for stake Relief Society president, Sister women in the wards. Those involved the salvation of the souls of men.” 12 Leinata Va’enuku, asked if it would be in the rescue focused primarily on “[The] work of salvation includes appropriate for her to say something. preparing them for the priesthood, member missionary work, convert As she spoke, the Spirit confirmed to eternal marriage, and the saving retention, activation of less-active the president that what she was sug- ordinances of the temple. During the members, temple and family history gesting was true. She explained that next two years, almost all of the 63 work, . . . teaching the gospel,” 13 and there were large numbers of wonder- men who had been sustained to the caring for the poor and needy.14 This ful young men in their late 20s and Melchizedek Priesthood at the confer- is administered primarily through the 30s in their stake who had not served ence I attended were endowed in the ward council.15 Specifically, it is intended in the new handbooks that bishops, sensitive to existing demands, will delegate more responsibilities. Members need to recognize that the bishop has been instructed to delegate. Members need to sustain and support him as he follows this counsel. This will allow the bishop to spend more time with the youth, young single adults, and his own family. He will delegate other important responsibilities to priest- hood leaders, presidents of auxiliaries, 20 Kyiv, Ukraine temple and had their spouses sealed She said that families are TV rich and You valiant and faithful single to them. This account is but one family-time poor.20 sisters, please know that we love and example of how critical our sisters are These are very emotional, personal appreciate you, and we assure you in the work of salvation in our wards decisions, but there are two principles that no eternal blessing will be with- and stakes and how they facilitate that we should always keep in mind. held from you. revelation, especially in family and First, no woman should ever feel the The remarkable pioneer woman Church councils.17 need to apologize or feel that her con- Emily H. Woodmansee penned the tribution is less significant because she text of the hymn “As Sisters in Zion.” Role of Sisters in the Family is devoting her efforts to rais- She correctly asserts that the “errand of We recognize that there are enor- ing and nurturing children. Nothing angels is given to women.” 22 This has mous forces arrayed against women could be more significant in our been described as “nothing less than to and families. Recent studies find there Father in Heaven’s plan. Second, we do the direct and immediate bidding of is deterioration in devotion to mar- should all be careful not to be judg- our Father in Heaven, and ‘this is a gift riage, with a decrease in the number mental or assume that sisters are less that . . . sisters . . . claim.’” 23 of adults being married.18 For some, valiant if the decision is made to work Dear sisters, we love and admire marriage and family are becoming “a outside the home. We rarely under- you. We appreciate your service in the menu choice rather than the central stand or fully appreciate people’s Lord’s kingdom. You are incredible! I organizing principle of our society.” 19 circumstances. Husbands and wives express particular appreciation for the Women are confronted with many should prayerfully counsel together, women in my life. I testify of the real- options and need to prayerfully con- understanding they are accountable to ity of the Atonement, the divinity of sider the choices they make and how God for their decisions. the Savior, and the Restoration of His those choices affect the family. You devoted sisters who are single Church, in the name of Jesus Christ, When I was in last parents for whatever reason, our hearts amen. ◼ year, I read in an Auckland newspaper reach out to you with appreciation. of women, not of our faith, strug- Prophets have made it clear “that many NOTES 1. Wallace Stegner, The Gathering of Zion: gling with these issues. One mother hands stand ready to help you. The The Story of the Mormon Trail (1971), 13. said she realized that in her case, her Lord is not unmindful of you. Neither is 2. Robert D. Putnam and David E. Campbell, choice about whether to work or stay His Church.” 21 I would hope that Latter- American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us (2010), 233. home was about a new carpet and a day Saints would be at the forefront in 3. See Handbook 2: Administering the second car that she didn’t really need. creating an environment in the work- Church (2010), 1.3.1; see also Moses 5:1, 4, Another woman, however, felt “the place that is more receptive and accom- 12, 27. 4. In Andrew D. Olsen, The Price We Paid: biggest enemy of a happy family life modating to both women and men in The Extraordinary Story of the Willie and was not paid work—it was television.” their responsibilities as parents. Martin Handcart Pioneers (2006), 445.

May 2011 21 5. See “Leaves from the Life of Elizabeth By President Henry B. Eyring Horrocks Jackson Kingsford,” Utah State First Counselor in the First Presidency Historical Society, Manuscript A 719; in “Remembering the Rescue,” ­Ensign, Aug. 1997, 47. 6. Combined and shortened from an e-mail written by Monica Sedgwick, stake Young Women president of the Laguna Niguel California Stake, and a talk given by Leslie Opportunities to Mortensen, stake Young Women president of the Mission Viejo California Stake. 7. In an article titled “Why Do We Let Them Dress Like That?” (Wall Street Journal, Mar. 19–20, 2011, C3), a thoughtful Jewish Do Good mother advocates for dress standards and modesty and acknowledges the example of Mormon women. The Lord’s way to help those in temporal need requires people 8. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2010, 129. who out of love have consecrated themselves and what they 9. See Putnam and Campbell, American have to God and to His work. Grace, 244–45. 10. See Putnam and Campbell, American Grace, 504. 11. Doctrine and Covenants 81:5; see also Mosiah 4:26. y dear brothers and sisters, and feels your deep compassion for 12. Doctrine and Covenants 138:56. 13. Handbook 2: Administering the Church the purpose of my message is them, He has from the beginning of (2010), page 22. to honor and celebrate what time provided ways for His disciples 14. See Handbook 2, 6.1. M the Lord has done and is doing to to help. He has invited His children 15. See Handbook 2, 4.5. 16. See Emily Matchar, “Why I Can’t Stop Reading serve the poor and the needy among to consecrate their time, their means, Mormon Housewife Blogs,” salon.com/life/ His children on earth. He loves His and themselves to join with Him in feature/2011/01/15/feminist_obsessed_with_ children in need and also those who serving others. mormon_blogs. This self-described feminist and atheist acknowledges this respect and want to help. And He has created His way of helping has at times says she is addicted to reading Mormon ways to bless both those who need been called living the law of consecra- housewife blogs. help and those who will give it. tion. In another period His way was 17. From conversations with Nukuʻalofa Tonga Haʻakame Stake president Lehonitai Our Heavenly Father hears the called the united order. In our time it Mateaki (who subsequently served as prayers of His children across the earth is called the Church welfare program. president of the Papua New Guinea Port pleading for food to eat, for clothes to The names and the details of oper- Moresby Mission) and stake Relief Society president Leinata Vaʻenuku. cover their bodies, and for the dignity ation are changed to fit the needs and 18. See D’Vera Cohn and Richard Fry, that would come from being able to conditions of people. But always the “Women, Men, and the New Economics of provide for themselves. Those pleas Lord’s way to help those in temporal Marriage,” Pew Research Center, Social and Demographic Trends, pewsocialtrends.org. have reached Him since He placed need requires people who out of love The number of children being born has also men and women on the earth. have consecrated themselves and what decreased significantly in many countries. You learn of those needs where you they have to God and to His work. This has been called the demographic winter. 19. “A Troubling Marriage Trend,” Deseret live and from across the world. Your He has invited and commanded News, Nov. 22, 2010, A14, quoting a report heart is often stirred with feelings of us to participate in His work to lift up on msnbc.com. sympathy. When you meet someone those in need. We make a covenant to 20. See Simon Collins, “Put Family before Moneymaking Is Message from Festival,” struggling to find employment, you feel do that in the waters of baptism and New Zealand Herald, Feb. 1, 2010, A2. that desire to help. You feel it when you in the holy temples of God. We renew 21. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Women of the go into the home of a widow and see the covenant on Sundays when we Church,” ­Ensign, Nov. 1996, 69; see also Spencer W. Kimball, “Our Sisters in the that she has no food. You feel it when partake of the sacrament. Church,” ­Ensign, Nov. 1979, 48–49. you see photographs of crying chil- My purpose today is to describe 22. “As Sisters in Zion,” Hymns, no. 309. dren sitting in the ruins of their home some of the opportunities He has 23. Karen Lynn Davidson, Our Latter-Day Hymns: The Stories and the Messages, rev. destroyed by an earthquake or by fire. provided for us to help others in need. ed. (2009), 338–39. Because the Lord hears their cries I cannot speak of them all in our brief 22 time together. My hope is to renew and sudden feeling of sympathy for some- receives help and to the person who strengthen your commitment to act. one in need. A father may have felt it seizes the opportunity to give it. There is a hymn about the Lord’s when he saw a child fall and scrape a Wise parents see in every need of invitation to this work that I have sung knee. A mother may have felt it when others a way to bring blessings into since I was a little boy. In my childhood she heard the frightened cry of her the lives of their sons and daughters. I paid more attention to the happy tune child in the night. A son or a daughter Three children recently carried contain- than to the power of the words. I pray may have felt sympathy for someone ers holding a delicious dinner to our that you will feel the lyrics in your hearts who seemed sad or afraid at school. front door. Their parents knew that we today. Let’s listen to the words again: All of us have been touched with needed help, and they included their feelings of sympathy for others we children in the opportunity to serve us. Have I done any good in the world don’t even know. For instance, as you The parents blessed our family by today? heard reports of the waves rushing their generous service. By their choice Have I helped anyone in need? across the Pacific after the earthquake to let their children participate in the Have I cheered up the sad and made in Japan, you felt concern for those giving, they extended blessings to their someone feel glad? who might be hurt. future grandchildren. The smiles of the If not, I have failed indeed. Feelings of sympathy came to children as they left our home made Has anyone’s burden been lighter today thousands of you who learned of the me confident that will happen. They Because I was willing to share? flooding in Queensland, . The will tell their children of the joy they Have the sick and the weary been news reports were mainly estimates of felt giving kindly service for the Lord. I helped on their way? numbers of those in need. But many remember that feeling of quiet satisfac- When they needed my help was I there? of you felt the pain of the people. The tion from childhood as I pulled weeds Then wake up and do something more wake-up call was answered by 1,500 for a neighbor at my father’s invitation. Than dream of your mansion above. or more Church member volunteers Whenever I am invited to be a giver, I Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond in Australia who came to help and to remember and believe the lyrics “Sweet measure, comfort. is the work, my God, my King.” 2 A blessing of duty and love.1 They turned their feelings of sym- I know those lyrics were written pathy into a decision to act on their to describe the joy that comes from The Lord regularly sends wake-up covenants. I have seen the blessings worshipping the Lord on the Sabbath. calls to all of us. Sometimes it may be a that come to the person in need who But those children with the food at our

May 2011 23 One couple returned to Rexburg from a vacation just after the flood. They didn’t go to see their own house. Instead, they found their bishop to ask where they could help. He directed them to a family in need. After a few days they went to check on their home. It was gone, swept away in the flood. They simply walked back to the bishop and asked, “Now what would you like us to do?” Wherever you live, you have seen that miracle of sympathy turned to unselfish action. It may not have been in the wake of a great natural disaster. I have seen it in a priesthood quorum where a brother rises to describe the needs of a man or a woman who seeks an opportunity to work to sup- port himself or herself and his or her family. I could feel sympathy in the room, but some suggested names of people who might employ the person who needed work. door were feeling on a weekday the the day with a warm glow. I could tell What happened in that priesthood joy of doing the Lord’s work. And their from his smile and the way he held quorum and what happened in the parents saw the opportunity to do good the envelope so tightly that he felt flooded houses in Idaho is a manifes- and spread joy over generations. the great trust of his father to carry tation of the Lord’s way to help those The Lord’s way of caring for the the family offering for the poor. He in great need become self-reliant. We needy provides another opportunity will remember that day when he is a feel compassion, and we know how for parents to bless their children. I deacon and perhaps forever. to act in the Lord’s way to help. saw it in a chapel one Sunday. A small I saw that same happiness in the We celebrate the 75th anniversary of child handed the bishop his family’s faces of people who helped for the the Church welfare program this year. It donation envelope as he entered the Lord in Idaho years ago. The Teton was started to meet the needs of those chapel before the sacrament meeting. Dam burst on Saturday, June 5, 1976. who lost employment, farms, and even I knew the family and the boy. The Eleven people were killed. Thousands homes in the wake of what became family had just learned of someone in had to leave their homes in a few known as the Great Depression. the ward in need. The boy’s father had hours. Some homes were washed away. Great temporal needs of the children said something like this to the child And hundreds of dwellings could be of Heavenly Father have come again in as he placed a more generous fast made habitable only through effort and our time as they have and as they will offering than usual in the envelope: means far beyond that of the owners. in all times. The principles at the foun- “We fasted today and prayed for those Those who heard of the tragedy dation of the Church welfare program in need. Please give this envelope to felt sympathy, and some felt the call are not for only one time or one place. the bishop for us. I know that he will to do good. Neighbors, bishops, Relief They are for all times and all places. give it to help those with greater needs Society presidents, quorum leaders, Those principles are spiritual and than ours.” home teachers, and visiting teachers eternal. For that reason, understand- Instead of any hunger pangs on left homes and jobs to clean out the ing them and putting them down into that Sunday, the boy will remember flooded houses of others. our hearts will make it possible for 24 us to see and take opportunities to help whenever and wherever the Lord invites us. Here are some principles that guided me when I wanted to help in the Lord’s way and when I have been helped by others. First, all people are happier and feel more self-respect when they can provide for themselves and their That increased feeling of brother- members will seek revelation as they family and then reach out to take care hood is true for the receiver as well design whatever the projects will be. of others. I have been grateful for as the giver. To this day, a man with I will make three suggestions as those who helped me meet my needs. whom I shoveled mud side by side in you plan your service project. I have been even more grateful over his flooded Rexburg home feels a bond First, prepare yourself and those the years for those who helped me with me. And he feels greater personal you lead spiritually. Only if hearts are become self-reliant. And then I have dignity for having done all he could for softened by the Savior’s Atonement been most grateful for those who himself and for his family. If we had can you see clearly the goal of the showed me how to use some of my worked alone, both of us would have project as blessing both spiritually and surplus to help others. lost a spiritual blessing. temporally the lives of the children of I have learned that the way to have That leads to the third principle of Heavenly Father. a surplus is to spend less than I earn. action in welfare work for me: Draw My second suggestion is to choose With that surplus I have been able your family into the work with you as recipients of your service people to learn that it really is better to give so that they can learn to care for each within the kingdom or in the commu- than to receive. That is partly because other as they care for others. Your nity whose needs will touch the hearts when we give help in the Lord’s way, sons and daughters who work with of those who will give the service. The He blesses us. you to serve others in need will be people they serve will feel their love. President Marion G. Romney said more likely to help each other when That may do more to make them feel of welfare work, “You cannot give they are in need. glad, as the song promised, than will yourself poor in this work.” And then The fourth valuable principle of meeting only their temporal needs. he quoted his , Church welfare I learned as a bishop. My last suggestion is to plan to Melvin J. Ballard, this way: “A person It came from following the scriptural draw on the power of the bonds of cannot give a crust to the Lord without command to seek out the poor. It is families, of quorums, of auxiliary orga- receiving a loaf in return.” 3 the duty of the bishop to find and pro- nizations, and of people you know I have found that to be true in my vide help to those who still need assis- in your communities. The feelings of life. When I am generous to Heavenly tance after all they and their families unity will multiply the good effects of Father’s children in need, He is gener- can do. I found that the Lord sends the service you give. And those feel- ous to me. the Holy Ghost to make it possible to ings of unity in families, in the Church, A second gospel principle that has “seek, and ye shall find” 5 in caring for and in communities will grow and been a guide to me in welfare work the poor as He does in finding truth. become a lasting legacy long after the is the power and blessing of unity. But I also learned to involve the Relief project ends. When we join hands to serve people Society president in the search. She This is my opportunity to tell you in need, the Lord unites our hearts. may get the revelation before you do. how much I appreciate you. By the President J. Reuben Clark Jr. put it this Some of you will need that inspira- loving service you have given for the way: “That giving has . . . brought . . . tion in the months ahead. To com- Lord, I have been the recipient of the a feeling of common brotherhood as memorate the 75th anniversary of the thanks of people you have helped as I men of all training and occupation Church welfare program, members have met them across the world. have worked side by side in a Welfare worldwide will be invited to partici- You found a way to lift them higher garden or other project.” 4 pate in a day of service. Leaders and as you helped in the Lord’s way. You

May 2011 25 SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION | April 2, 2011

and humble disciples of the Savior like you have cast your bread upon the water in service, and the people you Presented by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf helped have tried to give me a loaf of Second Counselor in the First Presidency gratitude in return. I get that same expression of appre- ciation from people who have worked with you. I remember one time stand- ing next to President . The Sustaining We had been talking about welfare service in the Lord’s Church. He surprised me with his youthful vigor of Church Officers when he said, pumping his hand, “I love this work, and it is work!” For the Master I extend thanks for your work to serve the children of our t is proposed that we sustain Thomas Alonso, Nelson L. Altamirano, John S. Heavenly Father. He knows you, and Spencer Monson as prophet, seer, Anderson, Ian S. Ardern, Sergio E. He sees your effort, diligence, and Iand revelator and President of The Avila, David R. Brown, D. Fraser sacrifice. I pray that He will grant you Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Bullock, Donald J. Butler, Vladimiro J. the blessing of seeing the fruit of your Saints; Henry Bennion Eyring as First Campero, Daniel M. Cañoles, Carl B. labors in the happiness of those you Counselor in the First Presidency; and Cook, I. Poloski Cordon, J. Devn have helped and with whom you have Dieter Friedrich Uchtdorf as Second Cornish, Federico F. Costales, helped for the Lord. Counselor in the First Presidency. LeGrand R. Curtis Jr., Heber O. Diaz, I know that God the Father lives and Those in favor may manifest it. Andrew M. Ford, Julio G. Gaviola, hears our prayers. I know that Jesus is Those opposed, if any, may mani- Manuel Gonzalez, Daniel M. Jones, the Christ. You and those you serve can fest it. Donald J. Keyes, Domingos S. be purified and strengthened by serving It is proposed that we sustain Boyd Linhares, B. Renato Maldonado, Him and keeping His commandments. Kenneth Packer as President of the Raymundo Morales, J. Michel Paya, You can know as I know, by the power Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and the Stephen D. Posey, Juan M. Rodriguez, of the Holy Ghost, that Joseph Smith following as members of that quorum: Gerardo L. Rubio, Jay L. Sitterud, was God’s prophet to restore the true Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Dirk Smibert, Eivind Sterri, Ysrael A. and living Church, which this is. I testify Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Tolentino, W. Christopher Waddell, that President Thomas S. Monson is Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. and Gary W. Walker. the living prophet of God. He is a great Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Those who wish to join us in example of what the Lord did: going Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd expressing our gratitude for their about doing good. I pray that we may Christofferson, and Neil L. Andersen. excellent service, please manifest it. seize our opportunities to “lift up the Those in favor, please manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain as hands [that] hang down, and strengthen Any opposed may so indicate. new members of the First Quorum the feeble knees.” 6 In the sacred name It is proposed that we sustain the of the Seventy Don R. Clarke, José L. of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ counselors in the First Presidency Alonso, Ian S. Ardern, Carl B. Cook, NOTES and the Twelve Apostles as prophets, LeGrand R. Curtis Jr., W. Christopher 1. “Have I Done Any Good?” Hymns, no. 223. seers, and revelators. Waddell, and Kazuhiko Yamashita; 2. “Sweet Is the Work,” Hymns, no. 147. All in favor, please manifest it. and as new members of the Second 3. Marion G. Romney, “Welfare Services: The Savior’s Program,” ­Ensign, Nov. 1980, 93. Contrary, if there be any, by the Quorum of the Seventy Randall K. 4. J. Reuben Clark Jr., in Conference Report, same sign. Bennett, J. Devn Cornish, O. Vincent Oct. 1943, 13. It is proposed that we release Haleck, and Larry Y. Wilson. 5. See Matthew 7:7–8; Luke 11:9–10; 3 Nephi 14:7–8. the following as Area Seventies All in favor, please manifest it. 6. Doctrine and Covenants 81:5 effective on May 1, 2011: José L. Those opposed, by the same sign. 26 It is proposed that we sustain the Nicolas L. Di Giovanni, Jorge S. Kyungu, Remegio E. Meim Jr., Ismael following as new Area Seventies: Dominguez, Gary B. Doxey, David G. Mendoza, Cesar A. Morales, Rulon D. Kent J. Allen, Stephen B. Allen, Fernandes, Hernán D. Ferreira, Munns, Ramon C. Nobleza, Abenir V. Winsor Balderrama, R. Randall Bluth, Ricardo P. Giménez, Allen D. Haynie, Pajaro, Gary B. Porter, José L. Reina, Hans T. Boom, Patrick M. Boutoille, Douglas F. Higham, Robert W. Esteban G. Resek, George F. Rhodes Jr., Marcelo F. Chappe, Eleazer S. Hymas, Lester F. Johnson, Matti T. Lynn L. Summerhays, Craig B. Terry, Collado, Jeffrey D. Cummings, Jouttenus, Chang Ho Kim, Alfred David J. Thomson, Ernesto R. Toris, Arnulfo Valenzuela, Ricardo Valladares, Fabian I. Vallejo, Emer Villalobos, and Terry L. Wade. All in favor, please signify. Any opposed. It is proposed that we sustain the other General Authorities, Area Seventies, and general auxiliary presi- dencies as presently constituted. Those in favor, please manifest it. Any opposed may manifest it. President Monson, insofar as I have been able to observe, the voting in the Conference Center has been unani- mous in favor of the proposals made. Thank you, brothers and sisters, for your sustaining vote and your contin- ued faith, devotion, and prayers. ◼

May 2011 27 The Church Auditing Department has been granted access to all Church Auditing records and systems necessary to evaluate the adequacy of controls over receipts of funds, expenditures, Department Report, and safeguarding of Church assets. The Church Auditing Department is independent of all other Church departments and operations, and 2010 the staff consists of certified public accountants, certified internal audi- Presented by Robert W. Cantwell tors, certified information systems Managing Director, Church Auditing Department auditors, and other credentialed professionals. Based upon audits performed, the To the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ Church Auditing Department is of the of Latter-day Saints opinion that, in all material respects, contributions received, expenditures made, and assets of the Church for the year 2010 have been recorded ear Brethren: As prescribed by the Presiding Bishopric. This council and administered in accordance with revelation in section 120 of the approves budgets for Church depart- appropriate accounting practices, DDoctrine and Covenants, the ments, operations, and related allo- approved budgets, and Church poli- Council on the Disposition of the cations to ecclesiastical units. Church cies and procedures. Tithes authorizes the expenditure of departments expend funds consis- Respectfully submitted, Church funds. This council is com- tent with approved budgets and in Church Auditing Department posed of the First Presidency, the accordance with Church policies and Robert W. Cantwell Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and procedures. Managing Director ◼ 28 The total number of temples in operation throughout the world Statistical Report, 2010 was 134.

Presented by Brook P. Hales Former General Church Officers and Secretary to the First Presidency Others Who Have Passed Away since Last April General Conference Elders W. Grant Bangerter, Adney Y. Komatsu, Hans B. Ringger, LeGrand R. he First Presidency has issued The number of Church-service Curtis, Richard P. Lindsay, Donald L. the following statistical report missionaries serving was 20,813, Staheli, and Richard B. Wirthlin, Tof the Church for 2010. As of many of whom live at home and are former members of the Quorums of December 31, 2010, there were 2,896 called to support a variety of Church the Seventy; Barbara B. Smith, for- stakes, 340 missions, 614 districts, and functions. mer Relief Society general president; 28,660 wards and branches. Four temples were dedicated Ruth H. Funk, former Young Women Total membership of the Church at during the year: the Vancouver general president; Norma Jane B. the end of 2010 was 14,131,467. British Columbia Temple in Canada; Smith, former counselor in the Young There were 120,528 new children The Gila Valley Arizona Temple Women general presidency; Helen of record in the Church, and 272,814 in the United States; the Cebu City Fyans, widow of Elder J. Thomas converts were baptized in 2010. Philippines Temple; and the Kyiv Fyans, an emeritus General Authority; The number of full-time missionar- Ukraine Temple. Arnold D. Friberg, artist and illustrator; ies serving at the end of the year was The Laie Hawaii Temple in the and J. Elliot Cameron, former Church 52,225. United States was rededicated in 2010. commissioner of education. ◼

May 2011 29 By President Boyd K. Packer be called in my name? For if a church President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles be called in Moses’ name then it be Moses’ church; or if it be called in the name of a man then it be the church of a man; but if it be called in my name then it is my church, if it so be Guided by that they are built upon my gospel.” 3 Obedient to revelation, we call ourselves The Church of Jesus Christ the Holy Spirit of Latter-day Saints rather than the Mormon Church. It is one thing for others to refer to the Church as the Every one of us can be guided by the spirit of revelation and Mormon Church or to us as Mormons; the gift of the Holy Ghost. it is quite another for us to do so. The First Presidency stated: “The use of the revealed name, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- t has been 400 years since the publi- of Great Price, and the Doctrine and day Saints (D&C 115:4), is increas- cation of the King James Bible, with Covenants. ingly important in our responsibility Isignificant contributions from William Because of the Book of Mormon, to proclaim the name of the Savior Tyndale, a great hero in my eyes. we are frequently called the Mormon throughout all the world. Accordingly, The clergy did not want the Bible Church, a title we do not resent, but it we ask that when we refer to the published in common English. They is really not accurate. Church we use its full name wherever hounded Tyndale from place to place. In the Book of Mormon, the Lord possible. . . . He said to them, “If God spare my life, revisited the Nephites because they “When referring to Church mem- ere many years I will cause a boy that prayed to the Father in His name. And bers, we suggest ‘members of The driveth the plough shall know more of the Lord said: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day the Scripture than thou.” 1 “What will ye that I shall give Saints.’ As a shortened reference, Tyndale was betrayed and confined unto you? ‘Latter-day Saints’ is preferred.” 4 to a dark, freezing prison in Brussels “And they said unto him: Lord, we “[Latter-day Saints] talk of Christ, for over a year. His clothing was in will that thou wouldst tell us the name we rejoice in Christ, we preach of rags. He begged his captors for his whereby we shall call this church; Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we coat and cap and a candle, saying, “It for there are disputations among the write according to our prophecies, is indeed wearisome sitting alone in people concerning this matter. that our children may know to what the dark.” 2 These were denied him. “And the Lord said . . . , why is it source they may look for a remission Eventually, he was taken from prison that the people should murmur and of their sins.” 5 and before a large crowd was stran- dispute because of this thing? The world will refer to us as they gled and burned at the stake. But “Have they not read the scriptures, will, but in our speech, always remem- William Tyndale’s work and martyr’s which say ye must take upon you the ber that we belong to the Church of death were not in vain. name of Christ . . . ? For by this name Jesus Christ. Since Latter-day Saint children are shall ye be called at the last day. . . . Some claim we are not Christians. taught from their youth to know the “Therefore, whatsoever ye shall do, They either do not know us at all or scriptures, they in a measure fulfill the ye shall do it in my name; therefore ye they misunderstand. prophecy made four centuries earlier shall call the church in my name; and In the Church every ordinance is by William Tyndale. ye shall call upon the Father in my done by the authority of and in the Our scriptures today consist of the name that he will bless the church for name of Jesus Christ.6 We have the Bible, the Book of Mormon: Another my sake. same organization as did the primitive Testament of Jesus Christ, the Pearl “And how be it my church save it Church, with apostles and prophets.7 30 authority and the attendant gift of the Holy Ghost, which is conferred upon all members of the Church after baptism, set us apart from other churches. An early revelation directs “that every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world.” 11 The work in the Church today is performed by ordinary men and women called and sustained to preside, to teach, and to administer. It is by the power of revelation and the gift of the Holy Ghost that those called are guided to know the Lord’s will. Others may not accept such things as prophecy, revelation, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, but if they are to understand us at all, they must under- stand that we accept those things. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith a code of health, the Word of Wisdom, long before the dangers were known to the world. All are taught to avoid tea, coffee, liquor, tobacco, and of course varieties of drugs and addictive substances, which are ever present before our young people. Those who obey this revelation are promised that they “shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; Anciently the Lord called and the Holy Ghost were essential for the “And shall find wisdom and great ordained Twelve Apostles. He was establishment of His Church. They treasures of knowledge, even hidden betrayed and crucified. After His were commanded to baptize and con- treasures; Resurrection, the Savior taught His dis- fer the gift of the Holy Ghost.10 “And shall run and not be weary, ciples for 40 days and then ascended In time the Apostles and the and shall walk and not faint.” 12 into heaven.8 priesthood they carried were gone. In another revelation, the Lord’s But something was missing. A few The authority and power to administer standard of morality commands that days later the Twelve gathered in a had to be restored. For centuries men the sacred powers to beget life be pro- house, and “suddenly there came looked forward to the return of the tected and employed only between a sound from heaven as of a rush- authority and the establishment of the man and woman, husband and wife.13 ing mighty wind, and it filled all the Lord’s Church. To misuse this power is exceeded house. . . . Cloven tongues . . . of fire In 1829 the priesthood was in seriousness only by the shedding [rested] upon each of them. And they restored to Joseph Smith and Oliver of innocent blood and denying the were . . . filled with the Holy Ghost.” 9 Cowdery by John the Baptist and the Holy Ghost.14 If one transgresses His Apostles were now empowered. Apostles Peter, James, and John. Now the law, the doctrine of repentance They understood that the authority worthy male members of the Church teaches how to erase the effect of this given by the Savior and the gift of are ordained to the priesthood. This transgression.

May 2011 31 Everyone is tested. One might think was somewhere in the countryside Anything you do will make it worse. it is unfair to be singled out and sub- tending to the sick. After many hours John, leave it alone.” jected to a particular temptation, but of labor, the condition of the mother- This had been my friend’s trial. this is the purpose of mortal life—to to-be became desperate. Finally, the How could he leave it alone? A terri- be tested. And the answer is the same doctor was located. In the emergency, ble wrong had been committed. He for everyone: we must, and we can, he acted quickly and soon the baby struggled to get hold of himself and resist temptations of any kind. was born, and the crisis, it appeared, finally determined that he should be “The great plan of happiness” 15 was over. But some days later, the obedient and follow the counsel of centers on family life. The husband young mother died from the very that wise stake president. He would is the head of the home and the wife infection that the doctor had been leave it alone. the heart of the home. And marriage treating at another home that night. He said, “I was an old man before is an equal partnership. A Latter-day The young man’s world was shat- I understood and could finally see a Saint man is a responsible family man, tered. As the weeks wore on, his grief poor country doctor—overworked, faithful in the gospel. He is a car- festered. He thought of little else, and underpaid, run ragged from patient to ing, devoted husband and father. He in his bitterness he became threaten- patient, with little medicine, no hospi- reveres womanhood. The wife sustains ing. Today, no doubt, he would have tal, few instruments, struggling to save her husband. Both parents nurture the been pressed to file a malpractice lives, and succeeding for the most part. spiritual growth of their children. suit, as though money would solve He had come in a moment of crisis, Latter-day Saints are taught to love anything. when two lives hung in the balance, one another and to frankly forgive One night a knock came at his and had acted without delay. I finally offenses. door. A little girl said simply, “Daddy understood!” He said, “I would have My life was changed by a saintly wants you to come over. He wants to ruined my life and the lives of others.” patriarch. He married his sweetheart. talk to you.” Many times he had thanked the They were deeply in love, and soon “Daddy” was the stake president. Lord on his knees for a wise priest- she was expecting their first child. The counsel from that wise leader was hood leader who counseled simply, The night the baby was born, there simply “John, leave it alone. Nothing “John, leave it alone.” were complications. The only doctor you do about it will bring her back. Around us we see members of the Church who have become offended. São Luís, Brazil Some take offense at incidents in the history of the Church or its leaders and suffer their whole lives, unable to get past the mistakes of others. They do not leave it alone. They fall into inactivity. That attitude is somewhat like a man being hit by a club. Offended, he takes up a club and beats himself over the head with it all the days of his life. How foolish! How sad! That kind of revenge is self-inflicting. If you have been offended, forgive, forget it, and leave it alone. The Book of Mormon carries this warning: “And now, if there are faults they are the mistakes of men; where- fore, condemn not the things of God, that ye may be found spotless at the judgment-seat of Christ.” 16 32 A Latter-day Saint is quite an ordi- can stop this work. Every one of us NOTES nary individual. We are now every- can be guided by the spirit of reve- 1. In David Daniell, introduction to Tyndale’s New Testament (1989), viii. where in the world, 14 million of us. lation and the gift of the Holy Ghost. 2. In Daniell, introduction to Tyndale’s New This is only the beginning. We are “As well might man stretch forth his Testament, ix. taught to be in the world but not of puny arm to stop the Missouri river 3. 3 Nephi 27:2–5, 7–8. 17 4. First Presidency letter, Feb. 23, 2001. the world. Therefore, we live ordi- in its decreed course, or to turn it 5. 2 Nephi 25:26. nary lives in ordinary families mixed up stream, as to hinder the Almighty 6. See Moses 5:8; baptism: see 2 Nephi 31:12; in with the general population. from pouring down knowledge from 3 Nephi 11:27; 18:16; blessing the sick: see Doctrine and Covenants 42:44; We are taught not to lie or steal or heaven upon the heads of the Latter- bestowing the Holy Ghost: see Moroni 2:2; cheat.18 We do not use profanity. We day Saints.” 21 priesthood ordination: see Moroni 3:1–3; are positive and happy and not afraid If you are carrying some burden, sacrament: see Moroni 4:1–3; miracles: see Doctrine and Covenants 84:66–69. of life. forget it, let it alone. Do a lot of for- 7. See Articles of Faith 1:6. We are “willing to mourn with giving and a little repenting, and you 8. See Acts 1:3–11. those that mourn . . . and comfort will be visited by the Spirit of the Holy 9. Acts 2:2–4. 10. See Acts 2:38. those that stand in need of comfort, Ghost and confirmed by the testimony 11. Doctrine and Covenants 1:20. and to stand as witnesses of God at that you did not know existed. You 12. Doctrine and Covenants 89:18–20. all times and in all things, and in all will be watched over and blessed— 13. See “The Family: A Proclamation to the 19 World,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2010, places.” you and yours. This is an invitation 129. If someone is looking for a church to come unto Him. This church—The 14. See Alma 39:4–6. that requires very little, this is not the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 15. Alma 42:8. 16. Title page of the Book of Mormon. one. It is not easy to be a Latter-day Saints, “the only true and living church 17. See John 17:14–19. 22 Saint, but in the long run it is the only upon the face of the whole earth,” 18. See Exodus 20:15–16. true course. by His own declaration—is where we 19. Mosiah 18:9. Regardless of opposition or “wars, find “the great plan of happiness.” 23 20. Mormon 8:30. 21. Doctrine and Covenants 121:33. rumors of wars, and earthquakes in Of this I bear witness in the name of 22. Doctrine and Covenants 1:30. divers places,” 20 no power or influence Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 23. Alma 42:8.

May 2011 33 By Elder Russell M. Nelson risks of life, such as illness, injury, and Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles accident, will ever be present. We live in a time of turmoil. Earthquakes and tsunamis wreak devastation, governments collapse, economic stresses are severe, the fam- Face the Future ily is under attack, and divorce rates are rising. We have great cause for concern. But we do not need to let our fears dis- with Faith place our faith. We can combat those fears by strengthening our faith. Start with your children. You par- Truth, covenants, and ordinances enable us to overcome ents bear the primary responsibility fear and face the future with faith! to strengthen their faith. Let them feel your faith, even when sore trials come upon you. Let your faith be focused on our loving Heavenly Father and y beloved brethren and sisters, and ready for his mission. Later he His Beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. thank you for your sustaining will be sealed to an eternal compan- Teach that faith with deep conviction. Minfluence, not only by your ion of his choice. Can you see him Teach each precious boy or girl that uplifted hand but also by your uplift- one day as a husband and father, he or she is a child of God, created in ing service at home, in the Church, with children of his own? And one His image, with a sacred purpose and and in your communities. We love to day he will say farewell to his grand- potential. Each is born with chal- be with you and see you among your fathers, with a sure knowledge that lenges to overcome and faith to be families and friends. Wherever you death is part of life. developed. 2 live, we observe your efforts to make It is true. We live to die, and we die Teach of faith in God’s plan of this world a better place. We sustain to live again. From an eternal per- salvation. Teach that our sojourn in you! We love you! As you pray for us, spective, the only death that is truly mortality is a period of probation, a so we pray for you! premature is the death of one who is time of trial and testing to see if we We envision your families gath- not prepared to meet God. will do whatever the Lord commands ered around the television or online As apostles and prophets, we are us to do. 3 to watch the proceedings of general concerned not only for our children Teach of faith to keep all the conference at home. An alert mother and grandchildren but for yours as commandments of God, knowing that and father sent me a copy of a picture well—and for each of God’s children. they are given to bless His children they took at conference time. They All that the future holds in store for and bring them joy. 4 Warn them that observed the reaction of their then-18- each sacred child of God will be they will encounter people who pick month-old son, who recognized the shaped by his or her parents, family, which commandments they will keep features and voice of the speaker. The friends, and teachers. Thus, our faith and ignore others that they choose to child started to throw kisses toward now becomes part of our posterity’s break. I call this the cafeteria approach the TV. He wanted to come closer. faith later. to obedience. This practice of picking So his thoughtful older sister quickly Each individual will make his or and choosing will not work. It will hoisted her little brother on her shoul- her way in a constantly changing lead to misery. To prepare to meet ders and brought him closer. Here is world—a world of competing ideolo- God, one keeps all of His command- that photograph. gies. The forces of evil will ever be in ments. It takes faith to obey them, Yes, the image on the TV is mine, opposition to the forces of good. Satan and keeping His commandments will and those children are our grand­ constantly strives to influence us to strengthen that faith. children. In a few years this boy will follow his ways and make us miser- Obedience allows God’s blessings be an elder endowed in the temple able, even as he is. 1 And the normal to flow without constraint. He will 34 bless His obedient children with free- of the Prophet Joseph Smith during The Lord chose His strongest dom from bondage and misery. And his dreadful days of incarceration in words to reassure us! Seal! Testament! He will bless them with more light. Liberty Jail. The Lord responded by Sworn! Decreed! Immutable cov- For example, one keeps the Word of changing the Prophet’s perspective. enant! Brothers and sisters, believe Wisdom knowing that obedience will He said, “Know thou, my son, that all Him! God will heed your sincere and not only bring freedom from addic- these things shall give thee experi- heartfelt prayers, and your faith will be tion, but it will also add blessings of ence, and shall be for thy good.” 7 strengthened. wisdom and treasures of knowledge. 5 If we pray with an eternal perspec- To develop enduring faith, an Teach of faith to know that obedi- tive, we need not wonder if our most enduring commitment to be a full-tithe ence to the commandments of God tearful and heartfelt pleadings are payer is essential. Initially it takes faith will provide physical and spiritual heard. This promise from the Lord is to tithe. Then the tithe payer develops protection. And remember, God’s recorded in section 98 of the Doctrine more faith to the point that tithing holy angels are ever on call to help and Covenants: becomes a precious privilege. Tithing us. The Lord so declared: “I will go “Your prayers have entered into the is an ancient law from God. 9 He made before your face. I will be on your ears of the Lord . . . and are recorded a promise to His children that He right hand and on your left, and my with this seal and testament—the Lord would open “the windows of heaven, Spirit shall be in your hearts, and hath sworn and decreed that they and pour . . . out a blessing, that there mine angels round about you, to bear shall be granted. shall not be room enough to receive you up.” 6 What a promise! When we “Therefore, he giveth this promise it.” 10 Not only that, tithing will keep are faithful, He and His angels will unto you, with an immutable cov- your name enrolled among the people help us. enant that they shall be fulfilled; and of God and protect you in “the day of Unfailing faith is fortified through all things wherewith you have been vengeance and burning.” 11 prayer. Your heartfelt pleadings afflicted shall work together for your Why do we need such resilient are important to Him. Think of the good, and to my name’s glory, saith faith? Because difficult days are ahead. intense and impassioned prayers the Lord.” 8 Rarely in the future will it be easy

May 2011 35 down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments.” President Monson continued: “My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.” 19 To President Monson’s powerful declaration I add my own. I testify that God is our Father. Jesus is the Christ. His Church has been restored to the earth. His truth, covenants, and or popular to be a faithful Latter-day and opportunities for the future. The ordinances enable us to overcome Saint. Each of us will be tested. The power and authority of this priest- fear and face the future with faith! I Apostle Paul warned that in the latter hood holds the keys to all spiritual so testify in the sacred name of Jesus days, those who diligently follow the blessings of the Church. 14 And most Christ, amen. ◼ 12 Lord “shall suffer persecution.” That remarkably, the Lord has declared NOTES very persecution can either crush you that He will sustain those blessings, 1. See 2 Nephi 2:27. into silent weakness or motivate you according to His will. 15 2. Peter taught this concept when he expressed the hope that “ye might be to be more exemplary and courageous The greatest of all the blessings partakers of the divine nature, having in your daily lives. of the priesthood are bestowed in escaped the corruption that is in the world” How you deal with life’s trials is holy temples of the Lord. Fidelity to (2 Peter 1:4). 3. See Abraham 3:25. part of the development of your faith. covenants made there will qualify you 4. See 2 Nephi 2:25. Strength comes when you remem- and your family for the blessings of 5. See Doctrine and Covenants 89:19; see also ber that you have a divine nature, eternal life. 16 Isaiah 45:3. 6. Doctrine and Covenants 84:88. an inheritance of infinite worth. The Your rewards come not only here- 7. Doctrine and Covenants 122:7. Another Lord has reminded you, your chil- after. Many blessings will be yours example of change of perspective is dren, and your grandchildren that in this life, among your children and recorded in Psalms: “Preserve my soul; . . . my God, save thy servant that trusteth in you are lawful heirs, that you have grandchildren. You faithful Saints do thee. Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I been reserved in heaven for your not have to fight life’s battles alone. cry unto thee daily. . . . I will praise thee, specific time and place to be born, Think of that! The Lord declared, “I O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore” to grow and become His standard will contend with him that contend- (Psalm 86:2–3, 12). bearers and covenant people. As you eth with thee, and I will save thy 8. Doctrine and Covenants 98:2–3. walk in the Lord’s path of righteous- children.” 17 Later came this promise 9. Tithing is mentioned in eight books of the Old Testament: Genesis, Leviticus, ness, you will be blessed to continue to His faithful people: “I, the Lord, Numbers, Deuteronomy, 2 Chronicles, in His goodness and be a light and a would fight their battles, and their Nehemiah, Amos, and Malachi. savior unto His people. 13 children’s battles, and their children’s 10. Malachi 3:10. 11. Doctrine and Covenants 85:3. Available to each of you brethren children’s, . . . to the third and fourth 12. 2 Timothy 3:12. and sisters are blessings obtained generation.” 18 13. See Doctrine and Covenants 86:8–11. through the power of the holy Our beloved President Thomas S. 14. See Doctrine and Covenants 107:18. 15. See Doctrine and Covenants 132:47, 59. Melchizedek Priesthood. These Monson has given us his prophetic 16. See Abraham 2:11. blessings can change the circum- witness. He said: “I testify to you that 17. Isaiah 49:25; see also Doctrine and stances of your lives, in matters such our promised blessings are beyond Covenants 105:14. 18. Doctrine and Covenants 98:37. as health, companionship of the measure. Though the storm clouds 19. Thomas S. Monson, “Be of Good Cheer,” Holy Ghost, personal relationships, may gather, though the rains may pour ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2009, 92. 36 By Elder Richard J. Maynes Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, Of the Seventy Help me find the way. Teach me all that I must do To live with him someday.2

Recognizing that we have a heav- Establishing a enly family helps us understand the eternal nature of our earthly families. The Doctrine and Covenants teaches Christ-Centered Home us that the family is fundamental to the order of heaven: “And that same sociality which exists among us here We understand and believe in the eternal nature of the will exist among us there, only it will family. This understanding and belief should inspire us to do be coupled with eternal glory.” 3 everything in our power to establish a Christ-centered home. Understanding the eternal nature of the family is a critical element in understanding Heavenly Father’s plan for His children. The adversary, on the arly on in my service as a young as they sing the Primary song “I Am other hand, wants to do everything missionary in Uruguay and a Child of God.” Remember the words? in his power to destroy Heavenly EParaguay, I realized one of the Father’s plan. In his attempt to defeat great attractions to those seeking to , God’s plan, he is leading an unprece- know more about The Church of Jesus And he has sent me here, dented attack on the institution of the Christ of Latter-day Saints was their Has given me an earthly home family. Some of the more powerful interest in our doctrine regarding the With parents kind and dear. weapons he uses in his attack are family. In fact, since the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, truth- seeking investigators have been drawn to the doctrine that families can be together forever. The principle of eternal families is an essential element in Heavenly Father’s great plan for His chil- dren. Fundamental to that plan is the understanding that we have a heavenly family as well as an earthly family. The Apostle Paul teaches us that Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits: “That they should seek the Lord . . . and find him, . . . “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; . . . For we are also his offspring.” 1 Being offspring of a loving Heavenly Father is such a basic prin- ciple of the gospel of Jesus Christ that even our children proclaim its truth

May 2011 37 selfishness, greed, and pornography. Our eternal happiness is not one of Satan’s objectives. He knows that an essential key to making men and women miserable like himself is to deprive them of family relationships which have eternal potential. Because Satan understands that true happi- ness in this life and in the eternities is found in the form of family, he does everything in his power to destroy it. The ancient prophet Alma calls God’s plan for His children “the great plan of happiness.” 4 The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, whom we sustain as proph- ets, seers, and revelators, have offered us this inspired counsel with regard to happiness and family life: “The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.” 5 This happiness spoken of by Alma and more recently by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will most surely be found in the home with family. It will be found in abundance if we do everything in our power to establish a Christ- became treasured family traditions. youth in establishing celestial tradi- centered home. We learned that our children might tions in the home. Sister Maynes and I learned some not remember everything about the Learning, teaching, and practicing important principles as we began family home evening lesson later in the principles of the gospel of Jesus the process of establishing a Christ- the week, but they would remember Christ in our homes helps create a centered home early in our marriage. that we held it. We learned that later in culture where the Spirit can dwell. We started by following the counsel the day at school they would proba- Through establishing these celestial of our Church leaders. We brought bly not remember the exact words of traditions in our homes, we will be our children together and held weekly the scriptures or the prayer, but they able to overcome the false traditions family home evenings as well as daily would remember that we did read of the world and learn to put the prayer and scripture study. It was not scriptures and we did have prayer. needs and concerns of others first. always easy, convenient, or successful, Brothers and sisters, there is great The responsibility for establishing but over time these simple gatherings power and protection for us and our a Christ-centered home lies with both 38 parents and children. Parents are word and example. Children also play by playing with my little brother, Joey. responsible to teach their children in an important role in establishing a I also can help my family by keeping love and righteousness. Parents will be Christ-centered home. Let me share my room clean and helping out when- held accountable before the Lord in with you a short talk recently given by ever I can with a good attitude. Since how they perform their sacred respon- Will, my eight-year-old grandson, that I am the oldest child in my family, I sibilities. Parents teach their children illustrates this principle: know being a good example is impor- with words and through example. “I like to ride horses and go rop- tant. I can try my best to choose the This poem by C. C. Miller titled “The ing with my dad. A rope has different right and follow the commandments. Echo” illustrates the importance and strands woven together to make it “I know that kids can help their impact parents have as they influence strong. If a rope had only one strand, families be strong like a strong rope. their children: it wouldn’t be able to get the job done. When everyone does their best and But because there are more strands that works together, families can be happy ’Twas a sheep not a lamb work together, we are able to use it in and strong.” That strayed away in the parable many different ways and it is strong. When parents preside over the Jesus told, “Families can be like ropes. When family in love and righteousness and A grown-up sheep that strayed away only one person is working hard and teach their children the gospel of Jesus From the ninety and nine in the fold. doing what is right, the family will not Christ by word and through example, And why for the sheep should we seek be as strong as when everyone is put- and when children love and support And earnestly hope and pray? ting forth the effort to help each other. their parents by learning and practic- Because there is danger when sheep “I know that when I do what is ing the principles their parents teach, go wrong: right, I am helping my family. When I the result will be the establishment of They lead the lambs astray. am treating my sister, Isabelle, nicely, a Christ-centered home. Lambs will follow the sheep, you know, we both have fun and it makes my Brothers and sisters, as members of Wherever the sheep may stray. mom and dad happy. If my mom The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- When sheep go wrong, needs to do something, I can help her day Saints, we understand and believe It won’t take long till the lambs are as in the eternal nature of the family. wrong as they. Dortmund, Germany This understanding and belief should And so with the sheep we earnestly inspire us to do everything in our plead power to establish a Christ-centered For the sake of the lambs today, home. I bear you my testimony that For when the sheep are lost as we strive to do this, we will more What a terrible cost fully practice the love and service that The lambs will have to pay.6 was exemplified through the life and Atonement of our Savior, Jesus Christ, The consequences to parents who and as a result, our homes can truly lead their children astray are laid feel like heaven on earth. In the name before us by the Lord in the Doctrine of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ and Covenants: “And again, inasmuch NOTES as parents have children in Zion . . . 1. Acts 17:27–28. that teach them not to understand the 2. “I Am a Child of God,” Hymns, no. 301. 3. Doctrine and Covenants 130:2; see also doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ Robert D. Hales, “The Eternal Family,” the Son of the living God, and of bap- ­Ensign, Nov. 1996, 64. tism and the gift of the Holy Ghost by 4. Alma 42:8. 5. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” the laying on of the hands, . . . the sin ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2010, 129. be upon the heads of the parents.” 7 6. C. C. Miller, “The Echo,” in Best-Loved It is difficult to overstate the impor- Poems of the LDS People, ed. Jack M. Lyon and others (1996), 312–13. tance parents have in teaching their 7. Doctrine and Covenants 68:25; emphasis children celestial traditions through added.

May 2011 39 By Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. the Lord is unto the ends of the earth, Of the Seventy that all that will hear may hear” (D&C 1:11). A fundamental reason for the Restoration of the gospel is so “every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world; Testimony that faith also might increase in the earth” (D&C 1:20–21). The fundamentals of gaining and retaining a testimony of the Second, how does one obtain the necessary revelation, and what are the gospel of Jesus Christ are straightforward, clear, and within fundamental steps to achieve it? The the capacity of every person. pattern has been clear and consistent throughout the ages. The promise given for obtaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon also applies ne of the great blessings of my our testimonies as our sure witness of generally: life over many years has been the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus “And when ye shall receive these Othe opportunity to be sur- Christ, which is obtained by revelation things”—meaning you have listened, rounded by and work with the young through the Holy Ghost. read, studied, and pondered on the people of the Church. I consider these While a testimony is simple and question at hand—“ask God, the associations and friendships to be clear in this defining declaration, aris- Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, among the sweetest and most valuable ing from this declaration are several if these things are not true”—meaning of my life. They also are much of the potential questions, such as: Who is you will pray thoughtfully, specifically, basis for the optimism I have for the entitled to have a testimony? How and reverently with a firm commit- future of the Church, society, and the does one obtain the necessary revela- ment to follow the answer to your world. tion? What are the steps in obtaining prayer—“and if ye shall ask with a During these interactions I have a testimony? Is gaining a testimony an sincere heart, with real intent, having also had the privilege of conferring event or an ongoing process? Each of faith in Christ, he will manifest the with some who have had various these queries and others have their truth of it unto you, by the power of doubts or challenges with their testi- own subsets, but the fundamentals of the Holy Ghost. monies. While the specifics have been gaining and retaining a testimony of “And by the power of the Holy varied and occasionally unique, many the gospel of Jesus Christ are straight- Ghost ye may know the truth of all of the questions and causes for confu- forward, clear, and within the capacity things” (Moroni 10:4–5). sion have been quite similar. Likewise, of every person. Third, is gaining a testimony an iso- these are issues and concerns not Let me briefly respond to these lated event or an ongoing process? A restricted to any demographic or age- possible uncertainties and then refer testimony is similar to a living organ- group. They may trouble those who to some insights that have been shared ism that grows and develops when are multigenerational Church mem- recently by trusted young adult friends treated properly. It needs constant bers, relatively new Church members, who have had personal experience in nourishment, care, and protection to and also those just becoming familiar gaining their testimonies. They have also thrive and prosper. Likewise, neglect with The Church of Jesus Christ of had opportunities to minister to others or deviance from the pattern of living Latter-day Saints. Their questions are having challenges or difficulties with that a testimony clarifies can lead to its usually the result of honest inquiry or some aspects of their faith and beliefs. loss or diminishment. The scriptures curiosity. Because the implications are First, who is entitled to have a warn that transgressing or breaking so significant and serious for each of testimony? Everyone who is willing the commandments of God can result us, it seems appropriate to consider to pay the price—meaning keeping in the loss of the Spirit and even to the matter of our testimonies. In our the commandments—may have a one denying the testimony he or she Latter-day Saint context, we refer to testimony. “Wherefore the voice of once possessed (see D&C 42:23). 40 Khayelitsha,

Let me now share 10 of the obser- a fundamental purpose of life is to be worship, fulfilling visiting teaching, vations and suggestions of my valued tested and stretched, and thus we must home teaching, and other assignments and faithful young friends. The ideas learn to grow from our challenges and all strengthen our faith and invite the they share have a commonality in their be grateful for the lessons learned that Spirit into our lives. When we neglect thinking and experience; thus, they we cannot gain in an easier way. any of these privileges, we place our likely will not be surprising to any of Fourth, we must learn to trust the testimonies in jeopardy. us. Unfortunately and especially at things that we believe in or know to Eighth, we should not have higher times of our own struggle and distress, sustain us in times of uncertainty or standards for others than we do for we may temporarily forget or discount with issues where we struggle. ourselves. Too often we may let the their applicability to us personally. Fifth, as Alma taught, gaining a tes- mistakes or failures of others, espe- First, everyone has worth because timony is usually a progression along cially leaders or Church members, we are all children of God. He knows the continuum of hoping, believing, influence how we feel about ourselves us, loves us, and wants us to succeed and finally knowing the truth of a spe- or our testimonies. Other people’s and return to Him. We must learn to cific principle, doctrine, or the gospel difficulties are not an excuse for our trust in His love and in His timing itself (see Alma 32). own deficiencies. rather than in our own sometimes Sixth, teaching someone else Ninth, it is good to remember that impatient and imperfect desires. what we know strengthens our own being too hard on yourself when you Second, while we believe fully in testimony as we build that of another. make a mistake can be as negative as the mighty change of heart described When you give someone money or being too casual when real repentance in the scriptures (see Mosiah 5:2; Alma food, you will have less. However, is needed. 5:12–14, 26), we must understand it when you share your testimony, it And tenth, we must always be clear often occurs gradually, rather than strengthens and increases for both the that the Atonement of Christ is fully instantaneously or globally, and in bearer and the hearer. and continuously operative for each response to specific questions, experi- Seventh, we must do the little but of us when we allow it to be so. Then ences, and concerns as well as by our necessary things daily and regularly. everything else fits into place even study and prayer. Prayers, scripture and gospel study, when we continue to struggle with Third, we need to remember that attendance at Church meetings, temple certain details, habits, or seemingly

May 2011 41 missing parts in the mosaic of our faith. By Elder Dallin H. Oaks I am grateful for the insights, Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles strengths, and testimonies of so many of my exemplary young friends and associates. When I am with them, I am strengthened, and when I know that they are with others, I am encouraged Desire with the knowledge of the good that they are doing and the service that they To achieve our eternal destiny, we will desire and are rendering in behalf of the Master they worship and strive to obey. work for the qualities required to become an eternal being. People do good and important things because they have testimonies. While this is true, we also gain testimo- nies because of what we do. Jesus said: have chosen to talk about the young soldier in the Utah National “My doctrine is not mine, but his importance of desire. I hope each of Guard, I learned an example of this that sent me. I us will search our hearts to deter- from a combat-seasoned officer. “If any man will do his will, he shall mine what we really desire and how In the early months of the Korean know of the doctrine, whether it be we rank our most important desires. War, a Richfield Utah National Guard of God, or whether I speak of myself” Desires dictate our priorities, prior- field artillery battery was called into ( John 7:16–17). ities shape our choices, and choices active service. This battery, com- “If ye love me, keep my command- determine our actions. The desires we manded by Captain Ray Cox, con- ments” ( John 14:15). act on determine our changing, our sisted of about 40 Mormon men. After Like Nephi and Mormon of old, achieving, and our becoming. additional training and reinforcement “I do not know the meaning of all First I speak of some common by reservists from elsewhere, they were things” (1 Nephi 11:17; see also Words desires. As mortal beings we have sent to Korea, where they experienced of Mormon 1:7), but let me tell you some basic physical needs. Desires some of the fiercest combat of that war. what I do know. to satisfy these needs compel our In one battle they had to repel a direct I know God our Heavenly Father choices and determine our actions. assault by hundreds of enemy infantry, lives and loves us. I know His uniquely Three examples will demonstrate how the kind of attack that overran and special Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior we sometimes override these desires destroyed other field artillery batteries. and Redeemer and the head of the with other desires that we consider What does this have to do with Church, which bears His name. I know more important. overcoming the desire for sleep? Joseph Smith experienced all that he First, food. We have a basic need for During one critical night, when enemy has reported and taught with respect food, but for a time that desire can be infantry had poured through the front to the Restoration of the gospel in our overridden by a stronger desire to fast. lines and into the rear areas occupied day. I know we are led by apostles Second, shelter. As a 12-year-old by the artillery, the captain had the field and prophets today and President boy I resisted a desire for shelter telephone lines wired into his tent and Thomas S. Monson holds all of the keys because of my greater desire to fulfill ordered his numerous perimeter guards of the priesthood necessary to bless a Boy Scout requirement to spend a to phone him personally each hour on our lives and advance the work of the night in the woods. I was one of sev- the hour all night long. This kept the Lord. I know we are all entitled to this eral boys who left comfortable tents guards awake, but it also meant that knowledge, and if you are struggling, and found a way to construct a shelter Captain Cox had scores of interruptions you can rely on the truthfulness of the and make a primitive bed from the to his sleep. “How could you do that?” testimonies you hear from this pulpit at natural materials we could find. I asked him. His answer shows the this conference. These things I know Third, sleep. Even this basic desire power of an overriding desire. and bear testimony of in the name of can be temporarily overridden by “I knew that if we ever got home, Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ an even more important desire. As a I would be meeting the parents of 42 brethren” (Enos 1:9). He wrote, “And . . . after I had prayed and labored with all diligence, the Lord said unto me: I will grant unto thee according to thy desires, because of thy faith” (verse 12). Note the three essentials that preceded the promised blessing: desire, labor, and faith. In his sermon on faith, Alma teaches that faith can begin with “no more than [a] desire to believe” if we will “let this desire work in [us]” (Alma 32:27). Another great teaching on desire, especially on what should be our ulti- mate desire, occurs in the experience of the Lamanite king being taught by the missionary Aaron. When Aaron’s teaching caught his interest, the king asked, “What shall I do that I may be born of God” and “have this eternal life?” (Alma 22:15). Aaron replied, “If thou desirest this thing, . . . if thou wilt repent of all thy sins, and will bow down before God, and call on his name in faith, believing that ye shall receive, then shalt thou receive the hope which thou desirest” (verse 16). The king did so and in mighty prayer declared, “I will give away all my sins to know thee . . . and be saved at the last day” (verse 18). With that commitment and that identifica- tion of his ultimate desire, his prayer those boys on the streets in our small the enemy infantry. They took over was answered miraculously. town, and I didn’t want to face any of 800 prisoners and suffered only two The prophet Alma had a great them if their son didn’t make it home wounded. Cox was decorated for desire to cry repentance to all peo- because of anything I failed to do as bravery, and his battery received a ple, but he came to understand that his commander.” 1 Presidential Unit Citation for its extra- he should not desire the compelling What an example of the power of ordinary heroism. And, like Helaman’s power this would require because, he an overriding desire on priorities and stripling warriors (see Alma 57:25–26), concluded, “a just God . . . granteth on actions! What a powerful example they all made it home.2 unto men according to their desire, for all of us who are responsible for The Book of Mormon contains whether it be unto death or unto life” the welfare of others—parents, Church many teachings on the importance (Alma 29:4). Similarly, in modern leaders, and teachers! of desire. revelation the Lord declares that He As a conclusion to that illustration, After many hours of pleading with “will judge all men according to their early in the morning following his the Lord, Enos was told that his sins works, according to the desire of their nearly sleepless night, Captain Cox were forgiven. He then “began to hearts” (D&C 137:9). led his men in a counterattack on feel a desire for the welfare of [his] Are we truly prepared to have our

May 2011 43 Eternal Judge attach this enormous power should follow the example of of the power of an overwhelming significance to what we really desire? the valiant Captain Moroni, whose desire! When we have a vision of what Many scriptures speak of what service was not “for power” or for the we can become, our desire and our we desire in terms of what we seek. “honor of the world” (Alma 60:36). power to act increase enormously. “He that seeketh me early shall find How do we develop desires? Few Most of us will never face such an me, and shall not be forsaken” (D&C will have the kind of crisis that moti- extreme crisis, but all of us face poten- 88:83). “Seek ye earnestly the best vated Aron Ralston,3 but his experi- tial traps that will prevent progress gifts” (D&C 46:8). “He that diligently ence provides a valuable lesson about toward our eternal destiny. If our righ- seeketh shall find” (1 Nephi 10:19). developing desires. While Ralston was teous desires are sufficiently intense, “Draw near unto me and I will draw hiking in a remote canyon in southern they will motivate us to cut and carve near unto you; seek me diligently and Utah, an 800-pound (360 kg) rock ourselves free from addictions and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall shifted suddenly and trapped his right other sinful pressures and priorities receive; knock, and it shall be opened arm. For five lonely days he struggled that prevent our eternal progress. unto you” (D&C 88:63). to free himself. When he was about We should remember that righ- Readjusting our desires to give to give up and accept death, he had teous desires cannot be superficial, highest priority to the things of eter- a vision of a three-year-old boy run- impulsive, or temporary. They must be nity is not easy. We are all tempted to ning toward him and being scooped heartfelt, unwavering, and permanent. desire that worldly quartet of property, up with his left arm. Understanding So motivated, we will seek for that prominence, pride, and power. We this as a vision of his future son and condition described by the Prophet might desire these, but we should not an assurance that he could still live, Joseph Smith, where we have “over- fix them as our highest priorities. Ralston summoned the courage and come the evils of [our lives] and lost Those whose highest desire is to took drastic action to save his life every desire for sin.” 5 That is a very acquire possessions fall into the trap before his strength ran out. He broke personal decision. As Elder Neal A. of materialism. They fail to heed the the two bones in his trapped right arm Maxwell said: warning “Seek not after riches nor the and then used the knife in his multi- “When people are described as vain things of this world” (Alma 39:14; tool to cut off that arm. He then sum- ‘having lost their desire for sin,’ it is see also Jacob 2:18). moned the strength to hike five miles they, and they only, who deliberately Those who desire prominence or (8 km) for help.4 What an example decided to lose those wrong desires by being willing to ‘give away all [their] sins’ in order to know God.” “Therefore, what we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity.” 6 As important as it is to lose every desire for sin, eternal life requires more. To achieve our eternal des- tiny, we will desire and work for the qualities required to become an eternal being. For example, eternal beings forgive all who have wronged them. They put the welfare of others ahead of themselves. And they love all of God’s children. If this seems too difficult—and surely it is not easy for any of us—then we should begin with a desire for such qualities and call upon our loving Heavenly 44 Father for help with our feelings. The helpmeet, yet the men seem to be friend, a gifted teacher, or one who Book of Mormon teaches us that we blinded and confused as to whether has qualified for eternal life. should “pray unto the Father with or not it is their responsibility to seek I testify of Jesus Christ, whose all the energy of heart, that [we] may out these wonderful, choice daugh- love, whose teachings, and whose be filled with this love, which he ters of our Heavenly Father and court Atonement make it all possible. I pray hath bestowed upon all who are true them and be willing to make and keep that above all else we will desire to followers of his Son, Jesus Christ” sacred covenants in the Lord’s house.” become like Him so that one day we (Moroni 7:48). She concluded, “There are many single can return to His presence to receive I close with a final example of a LDS men here that are happy to go the fulness of His joy. In the name of desire that should be paramount for out and have fun, and date and hang Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ all men and women—those who are out, but have absolutely no desire to NOTES currently married and those who are ever make any kind of commitment to 1. Ray Cox, interview by author, Aug. 1, 1985, single. All should desire and seriously a woman.” 8 Mount Pleasant, Utah, confirming what he work to secure a marriage for eternity. I am sure that some anxiously told me in Provo, Utah, circa 1953. 2. See Richard C. Roberts, Legacy: The Those who already have a temple seeking young men would want me to History of the Utah National Guard (2003), marriage should do all they can to add that there are some young women 307–14; “Self-Propelled Task Force,” preserve it. Those who are single whose desires for a worthy marriage National Guardsman, May 1971, back cover; Miracle at Kapyong: The Story of the should desire a temple marriage and and children rank far below their 213th (film produced by Southern Utah exert priority efforts to obtain it. Youth desires for a career or other mortal University, 2002). and young singles should resist the distinctions. Both men and women 3. See Aron Ralston, Between a Rock and a Hard Place (2004). politically correct but eternally false need righteous desires that will lead 4. Ralston, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, concept that discredits the importance them to eternal life. 248. of marrying and having children.7 Let us remember that desires 5. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 211. Single men, please consider the dictate our priorities, priorities shape 6. Neal A. Maxwell, “According to the Desire challenge in this letter written by a our choices, and choices determine of [Our] Hearts,” ­Ensign, Nov. 1996, 22, 21. single sister. She pleaded for “the our actions. In addition, it is our 7. See Julie B. Beck, “Teaching the Doctrine of the Family,” ­Liahona, Mar. 2011, 32–37; righteous daughters of God that are actions and our desires that cause us ­Ensign, Mar. 2011, 12–17. sincerely searching for a worthy to become something, whether a true 8. Letter, Sept. 14, 2006.

May 2011 45 By Elder M. Russell Ballard The old prospector said, “Son, it Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles seems to me you are so busy looking for large nuggets that you’re missing filling your pouch with these precious flecks of gold. The patient accumula- tion of these little flecks has brought Finding Joy through me great wealth.” This story illustrates the spiri- tual truth that Alma taught his son Loving Service Helaman: “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. . . . May we show our love and appreciation for the Savior’s atoning “. . . And by very small means the sacrifice through our simple, compassionate acts of service. Lord . . . bringeth about the salvation of many souls” (Alma 37:6–7). Brothers and sisters, the gospel of Jesus Christ is simple, no matter how rothers and sisters, I hope those nuggets so big that one could hardly much we try to make it complicated. of you visiting Salt Lake will take carry them. We should strive to keep our lives Bthe opportunity to enjoy the Day after endless day, the young similarly simple, unencumbered by colors and fragrances of the beautiful man dipped his pan into the river and extraneous influences, focused on spring flowers on . came up empty. His only reward was those things that matter most. Spring brings a renewal of light a growing pile of rocks. Discouraged What are the precious, simple and life—reminding us, through the and broke, he was ready to quit until things of the gospel that bring clar- cycle of seasons, of the life, sacrifice, one day an old, experienced prospec- ity and purpose to our lives? What and Resurrection of our Lord and tor said to him, “That’s quite a pile of are the flecks of gospel gold whose Redeemer, Jesus Christ, for “all things rocks you are getting there, my boy.” patient accumulation over the course bear record of [Him]” (Moses 6:63). The young man replied, “There’s no of our lifetime will reward us with the Against this beautiful backdrop gold here. I’m going back home.” ultimate treasure—the precious gift of of spring and its symbolism of hope, Walking over to the pile of rocks, eternal life? there is a world of uncertainty, com- the old prospector said, “Oh, there is I believe there is one simple but plexity, and confusion. The demands gold all right. You just have to know profound—even sublime—principle of everyday life—education, jobs, where to find it.” He picked two rocks that encompasses the entirety of the raising children, Church administra- up in his hands and crashed them gospel of Jesus Christ. If we whole- tion and callings, worldly activities, together. One of the rocks split open, heartedly embrace this principle and and even the pain and sorrow of revealing several flecks of gold spar- make it the focus of our lives, it will unexpected­ illness and tragedy—can kling in the sunlight. purify and sanctify us so we can live wear us down. How can we free Noticing a bulging leather pouch once again in the presence of God. ourselves from this tangled web of fastened to the prospector’s waist, The Savior spoke of this principle challenges and uncertainties to find the young man said, “I’m looking for when He answered the Pharisee who peace of mind and happiness? nuggets like the ones in your pouch, asked, “Master, which is the great Oftentimes we are like the young not just tiny flecks.” commandment in the law? merchant from Boston, who in 1849, The old prospector extended his “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt as the story goes, was caught up in the pouch toward the young man, who love the Lord thy God with all thy fervor of the California gold rush. He looked inside, expecting to see several heart, and with all thy soul, and with sold all of his possessions to seek his large nuggets. He was stunned to see all thy mind. fortune in the California rivers, which that the pouch was filled with thou- “This is the first and great he was told were filled with gold sands of flecks of gold. commandment. 46 “And the second is like unto it, rather through simple acts of kindness we can create loving unity among Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy- and service. ward members. Where charity exists, self” (Matthew 22:36–40). There are myriad ways and circum- there is no place for gossip or unkind It is only when we love God and stances in which we can serve and words. Christ with all of our hearts, souls, and love others. May I suggest just a few. Ward members, both adults and minds that we are able to share this First, charity begins at home. The youth, can unite in meaningful ser- love with our neighbors through acts single most important principle that vice to bless the lives of others. Just of kindness and service—the way that should govern every home is to two weeks ago, the President of the Savior would love and serve all of practice the Golden Rule—the Lord’s the South America Northwest Area, us if He were among us today. admonition that “all things whatso- Elder Marcus B. Nash of the Seventy, When this pure love of Christ—or ever ye would that men should do to reported that by assigning “the strong charity—envelops us, we think, feel, you, do ye even so to them” (Matthew in spirit to those that are weak,” they and act more like Heavenly Father and 7:12). Take a moment and imagine are rescuing hundreds of less-active Jesus would think, feel, and act. Our how you would feel if you were adults and youth. Through love and motivation and heartfelt desire are like on the receiving end of thoughtless service, “one by one” they are coming unto that of the Savior. He shared this words or actions. By our example, let back. These acts of kindness create a desire with His Apostles on the eve of us teach our family members to have strong and lasting bond among every- His Crucifixion. He said: love one for another. one involved—both the helpers and “A new commandment I give unto Another place where we have the helpees. So many precious memo- you, That ye love one another; as I ample opportunity to serve is in the ries are centered around such service. have loved you. . . . Church. Our wards and branches When I think back on my many “By this shall all men know that ye should be places where the Golden years of Church administration, some are my disciples, if ye have love one Rule always guides our words and of my most profound memories are to another” ( John 13:34–35). actions toward each other. By treating the times I joined with ward members The love the Savior described is each other kindly, speaking words to help someone. an active love. It is not manifested of support and encouragement, and For example, I remember as a through large and heroic deeds but being sensitive to each other’s needs, bishop working alongside several

May 2011 47 principle when he said: “Kindness is the essence of greatness. . . . [It] is a passport that opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships that can last lifetimes” (“The Virtue of Kindness,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2005, 26). Another way we can serve Heavenly Father’s children is through missionary service—not only as full- time missionaries but also as friends and neighbors. The future growth of the Church will not happen through just knocking on strangers’ doors. It will happen when the members, along with our missionaries, filled with the love of God and Christ discern needs and respond to those needs in the spirit of charitable service. When we do this, brothers and sisters, the honest in heart will feel our sincerity and our love. Many will want to know more about us. Then and only then will the Church expand to fill all of the earth. This cannot be accomplished by missionaries alone but requires the interest and service of every member. active members of my ward as we expression of our love and concern, In all of our service, we need to cleaned out the silage pit at the stake we can reach out to those who have be sensitive to the promptings of the welfare farm. This was not a pleasant need of our help. Many of you have Holy Ghost. The still, small voice will assignment! A less-active brother who put on Helping Hands T-shirts and let us know who needs our help and had not been to church for many worked tirelessly to relieve suffer- what we can do to help them. years was invited to join with us. ing and improve your communities. President Spencer W. Kimball said: Because of the love and fellowship he Young single adults in the Sendai “It is vital that we serve each other in felt with us as we worked and talked Japan Stake recently provided invalu- the kingdom. . . . So often, our acts in that smelly silage pit, he came back able service in searching for members of service consist of simple encour- to church and was later sealed in the in the aftermath of the devastating agement or of giving . . . help with temple to his wife and his children. earthquake and tsunami. There are mundane tasks, but what glorious Our fellowship through service has countless ways to serve. consequences can flow . . . from small blessed his children, grandchildren, Through our heartfelt kindness and but deliberate deeds!” (Teachings of and now great-grandchildren. Many of service, we can make friends with Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. them have served missions, have mar- those whom we serve. From these Kimball [2006], 82). ried in the temple, and are raising an friendships come better understanding And President Thomas S. Monson eternal family—a great work wrought of our devotion to the gospel and a has counseled: by a simple act, a small fleck of gold. desire to learn more about us. “The needs of others are ever pres- A third area where we can serve My good friend Elder Joseph B. ent, and each of us can do something is in our communities. As a pure Wirthlin talked of the power of this to help someone. 48 PRIESTHOOD SESSION | April 2, 2011

“. . . Unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives” (“What Have I Done By Elder Neil L. Andersen for Someone Today?” ­Liahona and Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ­Ensign, Nov. 2009, 85). Brothers and sisters, may I re­ emphasize that the most important attribute of Heavenly Father and of His Beloved Son that we should desire Preparing the World and seek to possess within our lives is the gift of charity, “the pure love of Christ” (Moroni 7:47). From this gift for the Second Coming springs our capacity to love and to serve others as the Savior did. The prophet Mormon taught us Your mission will be a sacred opportunity to bring others to the supreme importance of this gift Christ and help prepare for the Second Coming of the Savior. and told us how we can receive it: “Wherefore, my beloved breth- ren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be speak tonight especially to the 12- to your faith in Jesus Christ. With your filled with this love, which he hath 25-year-olds who hold the priesthood ordination to the priesthood, your bestowed upon all who are true I of God. We think about you a lot and talents and spiritual capacities have followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that we pray for you. I once told the story been increased. One of your impor- ye may become the sons of God; that of our four-year-old grandson giving tant responsibilities is to help prepare when he shall appear we shall be like his little brother a strong push. After the world for the Second Coming of him, for we shall see him as he is; consoling the crying child, my wife, the Savior. that we may have this hope; that we Kathy, turned to the four-year-old and The Lord has appointed a prophet, may be purified even as he is pure” thoughtfully asked, “Why would you President Thomas S. Monson, to direct (Moroni 7:48). push your little brother?” He looked at the work of His priesthood. To you, Great things are wrought through his grandmother and responded, “Mimi, President Monson has said: “The Lord simple and small things. Like the I’m sorry. I lost my CTR ring, and I needs missionaries.” 1 “Every worthy, small flecks of gold that accumulate cannot choose the right.” We know that able young man should prepare to over time into a large treasure, our you try hard to always choose the right. serve a mission. Missionary service is small and simple acts of kindness We love you very much. a priesthood duty—an obligation the and service will accumulate into a life Have you ever thought about why Lord expects of [you] who have been filled with love for Heavenly Father, you were sent to earth at this specific given so very much.” 2 devotion to the work of the Lord time? You were not born during the Missionary service requires sacri- Jesus Christ, and a sense of peace and time of Adam and Eve or while pha- fice. There will always be something joy each time we reach out to one raohs ruled Egypt or during the Ming you leave behind when you respond another. dynasty. You have come to earth at this to the prophet’s call to serve. As we approach the Easter season, time, 20 centuries after the first coming Those who follow the game of may we show our love and appreci- of Christ. The priesthood of God has rugby know that the New Zealand ation for the Savior’s atoning sacrifice been restored to the earth, and the Lord All Blacks, a name given because of through our simple, compassionate has set His hand to prepare the world the color of their uniform, is the most acts of service to our brothers and for His glorious return. These are days celebrated rugby team ever.3 To be sisters at home, at church, and in our of great opportunity and important selected for the All Blacks in New communities. For this I humbly pray responsibilities. These are your days. Zealand would be comparable to in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ With your baptism, you declared playing for a football Super Bowl

May 2011 49 team or a World Cup soccer team. month, 19-year-old Elder Sidney life trusting in his Father in Heaven, In 1961, at age 18 and holding the Going left New Zealand to serve as keeping the commandments, and Aaronic Priesthood, Sidney Going a missionary for The Church of Jesus serving others. was becoming a star in New Zealand Christ of Latter-day Saints. And rugby? After his mission Sid rugby. Because of his remarkable Sid told me of an experience he had Going became one of the greatest abilities, many thought he would be on his mission. It was evening, and he halfbacks in All Blacks history, playing chosen the very next year for the and his companion were just about to for 11 seasons and serving for many national All Blacks rugby team. return to their apartment. They decided years as captain of the team.8 At age 19, in this critical moment to visit one more family. The father let How good was Sid Going? He was of his ascending rugby career, Sid them in. Elder Going and his compan- so good that training and game sched- declared that he would forgo rugby ion testified of the Savior. The family ules were changed because he would to serve a mission. Some called him accepted a Book of Mormon. The not play on Sunday.9 Sid was so good crazy. Others called him foolish.4 They father read all night. In the next week the Queen of England acknowledged protested that his opportunity in rugby and a half he read the entire Book of his contribution to rugby.10 He was so might never come again. Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, good a book was written about him For Sid it was not what he was and the Pearl of Great Price. A few titled Super Sid. leaving behind—it was the opportu- weeks later the family was baptized.6 What if those honors had not come nity and responsibility ahead. He had A mission instead of a place on to Sid after his mission? One of the a priesthood duty to offer two years the New Zealand All Blacks team? Sid great miracles of missionary service of his life to declare the reality of the responded, “The blessing of [bringing in this Church is that Sid Going and Lord Jesus Christ and His restored gos- others] into the gospel far outweighs thousands just like him have not pel. Nothing—not even a chance to anything [you] will ever sacrifice.” 7 asked, “What will I get from my mis- play on the national team, with all the You’re probably wondering what sion?” but rather, “What can I give?” acclaim it would bring—would deter happened to Sid Going following his Your mission will be a sacred him from that duty.5 mission. Most important: an eternal opportunity to bring others to Christ He was called by a prophet of marriage to his sweetheart, Colleen; and help prepare for the Second God to serve in the Western Canadian five noble children; and a generation Coming of the Savior. Mission. Forty-eight years ago this of grandchildren. He has lived his The Lord has long spoken of the 50 necessary preparations for His Second Coming. To Enoch, He declared, “Righteousness will I send down out of heaven; and truth will I send forth out of the earth, . . . and righteous- ness and truth will I cause to sweep the earth as with a flood, to gather out mine elect from the four quarters of the earth.” 11 The prophet Daniel prophesied that in the latter days the gospel would roll forth unto the ends of the earth as a “stone [that is] cut out of [a] mountain without hands.” 12 salvation can come . . . , only in and Some may wonder if they are too Nephi spoke of the latter-day Church through the name of Christ.” 17 We old to serve. A friend of mine from as being few in number but spread express appreciation to the tens of China found the Church in Cambodia upon all the face of the earth.13 The thousands of returned missionaries when he was in his mid-20s. He Lord declared in this dispensation, who have given and continue to give wondered if he should still consider “Ye are called to bring to pass the their very best. The world is being a mission. After praying and speaking gathering of mine elect.” 14 My young prepared for the Second Coming of with his bishop, he was called and brethren, your mission is a great the Savior in large measure because served nobly in New York City. Should opportunity and responsibility, impor- of the Lord’s work through His your age concern you, pray and speak tant to this promised gathering and missionaries. with your bishop. He will guide you. linked to your eternal destiny. Missionary service is a spiritual Fifty percent of all missionaries From the early days of the work. Worthiness and preparation are serve in their own homeland. That Restoration, the Brethren have been essential. President Monson has said: is only right. The Lord has promised very serious about their charge to “Young men, I admonish you to pre- that “every man shall hear the fulness declare the gospel. In 1837, only pare for service as a missionary. Keep of the gospel in his own tongue, and seven years after the organization of yourselves clean and pure and worthy in his own language.” 20 You will be the Church, at a time of poverty and to represent the Lord.” 18 In the years called by prophecy and serve where persecution, missionaries were sent to prior to your mission, please remem- you are needed most. teach the gospel in England. Within ber the sacred assignment ahead of I love meeting missionaries around the next few years, missionaries were you. Your actions before your mission the world. Recently while I was visiting preaching in such diverse places will greatly influence the priesthood the Australia Sydney Mission, do you as Austria, French Polynesia, India, power you bring with you into the know whom I found? Elder Sidney Jamaica, Chile, and China.15 mission. Prepare yourself well. Going—the New Zealand rugby legend. The Lord has blessed this work, President Monson spoke of “every Now age 67, he is once again a mission- and the Church is being established worthy, able young man [preparing] ary, but this time with a companion of across the world. This meeting is to serve a mission.” 19 On occasion, his own choosing: Sister Colleen Going. being translated into 92 languages. because of health or other reasons, He told me of a family they were able We are grateful for the 52,225 full-time one might not be able to serve. You to teach. The parents were members missionaries serving in more than 150 will know your ability to serve as you but had been less active in the Church countries.16 The sun never sets on speak with your parents and your for many, many years. Elder and Sister righteous missionaries testifying of the bishop. Should this be your situation, Going helped rekindle the family’s faith. Savior. Think of the spiritual power please do not feel less important in Elder Going told me of the power he of 52,000 missionaries, endowed with the noble commission before you. The felt while standing at the baptismal font the Spirit of the Lord, boldly declaring Lord is very generous to those who next to the father of the family as the that there is “no other name given nor love Him, and He will open other oldest son, now holding the priesthood, any other way nor means whereby doors for you. baptized his younger brother and sister.

May 2011 51 He expressed the joy of witnessing a united family pursuing eternal life together.21 Speaking to you, the First Presidency has said: “You are [a] choice [spirit] who [has] come forth in this day when the respon- sibilities and opportunities, as well as the temptations, are the greatest. . . . “We pray for each of you . . . [that] you can do the great work that lies before you . . . that you will be worthy [and willing] to carry on the respon- sibilities of building the kingdom of God and preparing the world for the Second Coming of the Savior.” 22 I love Harry Anderson’s painting of the Second Coming of the Savior. It reminds me that He will come in majesty and power. Amazing events will unfold on the earth and in the skies.23 Those awaiting the Savior’s coming will “look for [Him].” And He has prom- ised, “I will come”! The righteous will see Him “in the clouds of heaven [with all the holy angels], clothed with power and great glory.” 24 “An angel shall sound his trump, and the saints . . . 25 from the four quarters of the earth” NOTES will “be caught up to meet him.” 26 1. Thomas S. Monson, “The Lord Needs 12. Daniel 2:45. Those “that have slept,” meaning those Missionaries,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Jan. 13. See 1 Nephi 14:12–14. 2011, 4. 14. Doctrine and Covenants 29:7. worthy Saints who have died, “shall 2. Thomas S. Monson, “As We Meet Together 15. See 2011 Church Almanac [also] come forth to meet [Him].” 27 Again,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2010, 5–6. (2011), 430, 458, 463, 487, 505, 512. The scripture reads, “The Lord [will] 3. See stats.allblacks.com. 16. As of December 31, 2010. 28 4. See Bob Howitt, Super Sid: The Story of a 17. Mosiah 3:17. set his foot upon [the] mount,” and Great All Black (1978), 27. 18. Thomas S. Monson, ­Liahona and ­Ensign, “[He] shall utter his voice, and all the 5. Phone conversation with President Jan. 2011, 4. ends of the earth shall hear it.” 29 Maxwell Horsford, Kaikohe New Zealand 19. Thomas S. Monson, ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Stake, Mar. 2011. Nov. 2010, 5–6. My young brethren of the priest- 6. Phone conversation with Elder Sidney 20. Doctrine and Covenants 90:11. hood, I testify of the majesty, but most Going, Mar. 2011. 21. Phone conversation with Elder Sidney of all, of the certainty of this magnif- 7. E-mail correspondence from Elder Sidney Going, Mar. 2011. Going, Mar. 2011. 22. “Message from the First Presidency,” For icent event. The Savior lives. He will 8. See stats.allblacks.com/asp/profile the Strength of Youth: Fulfilling Our Duty return to the earth. And whether on this .asp?ABID=324. to God (booklet, 2001), 2–3. side of the veil or the other, you and 9. Phone conversation with President 23. See Doctrine and Covenants 43:18; 45:40. Maxwell Horsford, Kaikohe New Zealand 24. Doctrine and Covenants 45:44. I will rejoice in His coming and thank Stake, Mar. 2011. 25. Doctrine and Covenants 45:45, 46. the Lord that He sent us to earth at this 10. Sid Going was awarded with an MBE 26. Doctrine and Covenants 88:96. time to fulfill our sacred duty of helping (Member of the Order of the British 27. Doctrine and Covenants 45:45; see also Empire) in 1978 for his contributions to the Doctrine and Covenants 29:13; 88:96–97. prepare the world for His return. In the sport of rugby (see Howitt, Super Sid, 265). 28. Doctrine and Covenants 45:48. name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 11. Moses 7:62. 29. Doctrine and Covenants 45:49. 52 By Elder Steven E. Snow would be broken. Over the years Of the Presidency of the Seventy many outstanding runners had come close, but still the four-minute barrier stood. Bannister dedicated himself to an ambitious training schedule with the hope of realizing his goal of Hope setting a new world record. Some in the sporting community had begun to Our hope in the Atonement empowers us with doubt whether the four-minute mile could be broken. Supposed experts eternal perspective. had even hypothesized the human body was physiologically unable to run at such speeds over such a long distance. On a cloudy day on May 6, ur family grew up in the high which we have little or no control. We 1954, Roger Bannister’s great hope desert country of southern hope for good weather. We hope for was realized! He crossed the finish line OUtah. Rain is rare, and hope an early spring. We hope our favorite in 3:59.4, setting a new world record. abounds that there will be sufficient sports team will win the World Cup, His hope to break the four-minute- moisture for the coming heat of sum- the Super Bowl, or the World Series. mile barrier became a dream which mer. Then, as now, we hoped for rain, Such hopes make our lives interest- was accomplished through training, we prayed for rain, and in dire times, ing and can often lead to unusual, even hard work, and dedication. we fasted for rain. superstitious behavior. For example, my Hope can inspire dreams and spur The story is told there of the father-in-law is a huge sports fan, but us to realize those dreams. Hope grandfather who took his five-year- he is convinced if he doesn’t watch his alone, however, does not cause us to old grandson for a walk around town. favorite basketball team on tele­vision, succeed. Many honorable hopes have Ultimately, they found themselves at they are more likely to win. When I gone unfulfilled, shipwrecked on the a small grocery store on Main Street was 12 years old, I insisted on wearing reefs of good intentions and laziness. where they stopped for a cold soda the same pair of unwashed socks to As parents, we find our fondest pop. A car from out of state pulled up every Little League baseball game in the hopes center around our children. and the driver approached the old- hopes of winning. My mother made me We hope they will grow up to lead timer. Pointing to a small cloud in the keep them on the back porch. responsible and righteous lives. Such sky, the stranger asked, “Do you think Other times our hopes can lead hopes can be easily dashed if we do it’s going to rain?” to dreams which can inspire us and not act as good examples. Hope alone “I certainly hope so,” replied the lead us to action. If we have the hope does not mean our children will grow old man, “if not for my sake, for the to do better in school, that hope can in righteousness. We must spend time boy’s. I’ve seen it rain.” be realized by dedicated study and with them in family home evening and Hope is an emotion which brings sacrifice. If we have the hope to play worthwhile family activities. We must richness to our everyday lives. It is on a winning team, that hope can teach them to pray. We must read with defined as “the feeling that . . . events lead to consistent practice, dedication, them in the scriptures and teach them will turn out for the best.” When we teamwork, and ultimately success. important gospel principles. Only then exercise hope, we “look forward . . . Roger Bannister was a medical is it possible our fondest hopes will be with desire and reasonable confi- student in England who had an ambi- realized. dence” (dictionary.reference.com/ tious hope. He desired to be the first We should never let hope be dis- browse/hope). As such, hope brings a man to run a mile (1.6 km) under four placed by despair. The Apostle Paul certain calming influence to our lives minutes. For much of the first half of wrote that we “should plow in hope” as we confidently look forward to the early 20th century, field and track (1 Corinthians 9:10). The exercise of future events. enthusiasts had anxiously awaited hope enriches our lives and helps us Sometimes we hope for things over the day the four-minute-mile barrier look forward to the future. Whether

May 2011 53 we are plowing fields to plant or surfaces we might encounter at the of all men” (2 Nephi 31:20). plowing through life, it is imperative time” (“The Infinite Power of Hope,” This “perfect brightness of hope” we, as Latter-day Saints, have hope. ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2008, 21). of which Nephi speaks is the hope in In the gospel of Jesus Christ, In the last chapter of the Book of the Atonement, eternal salvation made hope is the desire of His followers Mormon, Moroni wrote: possible by the sacrifice of our Savior. to gain eternal salvation through the “Wherefore, there must be faith; This hope has led men and women Atonement of the Savior. and if there must be faith there must through the ages to do remarkable This is truly the hope we must all also be hope; and if there must be things. Apostles of old roamed the have. It is what sets us apart from the hope there must also be charity. earth and testified of Him and ulti- rest of the world. Peter admonished “And except ye have charity ye can mately gave their lives in His service. the early followers of Christ to “be in nowise be saved in the kingdom of In this dispensation many early ready always to give an answer to God; neither can ye be saved in the members of the Church left their every man that asketh you a reason of kingdom of God if ye have not faith; homes, their hearts full of hope and the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). neither can ye if ye have no hope” faith as they made their way west across Our hope in the Atonement (Moroni 10:20–21). the Great Plains to the Salt Lake Valley. empowers us with eternal perspective. Elder Russell M. Nelson has taught In 1851, Mary Murray Murdoch Such perspective allows us to look that “faith is rooted in Jesus Christ. joined the Church in Scotland as a beyond the here and now on into the Hope centers in the Atonement. Charity widow at age 67. A small woman at promise of the eternities. We don’t is manifest in the ‘pure love of Christ.’ four feet seven inches (1.2 m) tall and have to be trapped in the narrow These three attributes are intertwined barely 90 pounds (41 kg), she bore confines of society’s fickle expecta- like strands in a cable and may not eight children, six of whom lived to tions. We are free to look forward to always be precisely distinguished. maturity. Because of her size, her chil- celestial glory, sealed to our family Together they become our tether to the dren and grandchildren affectionately and loved ones. celestial kingdom” (“A More Excellent called her “Wee Granny.” In the gospel, hope is almost Hope,” ­Ensign, Feb. 1997, 61). Her son John Murdoch and his wife always related to faith and charity. When Nephi prophesied of Jesus joined the Church and left for Utah in President Dieter F. Uchtdorf has Christ at the closing of his record, 1852 with their two small children. In taught: “Hope is one leg of a three- he wrote, “Wherefore, ye must press spite of his family’s own hardships, legged stool, together with faith and forward with a steadfastness in four years later John sent his mother charity. These three stabilize our lives Christ, having a perfect brightness the necessary funds so she might join regardless of the rough or uneven of hope, and a love of God and the family in Salt Lake City. With a 54 hope much greater than her small size, By Larry M. Gibson Mary began the arduous journey west First Counselor in the Young Men General Presidency to Utah at age 73. After a safe passage across the Atlantic, she ultimately joined the ill-fated Martin handcart company. On July 28 these handcart pioneers Sacred Keys of the began the journey west. The suffering of this company is well known. Of the 576 members of the party, almost Aaronic Priesthood one-fourth died before they reached Utah. More would have perished if not for the rescue effort organized The Lord wants every Aaronic Priesthood holder to invite all by President Brigham Young, who to come unto Christ—beginning with his own family. sent wagons and supplies to find the stranded, snowbound Saints. Mary Murdoch died on October 2, 1856, near Chimney Rock, Nebraska. ne of my sons, at age 12, quorum members that he “addressed Here she succumbed to fatigue, decided to raise rabbits. We him as president to emphasize the exposure, and the hardships of the Obuilt cages and acquired one sacredness of his calling. The deacons journey. Her frail body simply gave large male and two female rabbits quorum president is one of only four out under the physical hardships the from a neighbor. I had no idea what people in the ward who hold keys of Saints encountered. As she lay clinging we were getting into. In a very short presidency. With those keys, he, with to life, her thoughts were of her family time, our shed was bursting with his counselors, will lead the quorum in Utah. The last words of this faith- bunnies. Now that my son is grown, I under the inspiration of the Lord.” This ful pioneer woman were “Tell John I must confess my amazement at how bishop understood the power of a pres- died with my face toward Zion.” (See they were controlled—a neighbor’s idency led by a president who holds Kenneth W. Merrell, Scottish Shepherd: dog occasionally got into the shed and and exercises sacred priesthood keys. The Life and Times of John Murray thinned out the herd. (See D&C 124:142–43.) Murdoch, Utah Pioneer [2006], 34, 39, But my heart was touched as I saw Later I asked this young man if 54, 77, 94–97, 103, 112–13, 115.) my son and his brothers watch over he was ready to preside over this Mary Murray Murdoch exemplifies and protect those rabbits. And now, great quorum. His response was: the hope and faith of so many of the as husbands and fathers, they are “I’m nervous. I don’t know what a early pioneers who made the coura- worthy priesthood holders who love, deacons quorum president does. Can geous journey west. The spiritual jour- strengthen, and watch over their own you tell me?” neys of today require no less hope or families. I told him he had a wonderful faith than those of the early pioneers. My feelings are tender as I observe bishopric and advisers who would Our challenges may be different, but you young men of the Aaronic help him become a successful and the struggles are just as great. Priesthood watching over, supporting, powerful priesthood leader. I knew It is my prayer that our hopes will and strengthening those around you, they would respect the sacred keys of lead to the fulfillment of our righteous including your families, members of presidency he held. dreams. I particularly pray our hope your quorum, and many others. How I then posed this question: “Do you in the Atonement will strengthen our I love you. suppose the Lord would call you to faith and charity and give us an eternal Recently I watched as a 13-year-old this important calling without giving perspective of our future. May we all young man was set apart as deacons you direction?” have this perfect brightness of hope, quorum president. Afterward the He thought, then responded, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, bishop shook his hand and addressed “Where do I find it?” amen. ◼ him as “president,” explaining to the After some discussion, he realized

May 2011 55 that he would find direction from the unit of the Church, the most impor- 3. Deacons and teachers are also to scriptures, the words of the living tant setting in which an Aaronic “warn, expound, exhort, and teach, prophets, and answers to prayer. Priesthood holder can fulfill this duty and invite all to come unto Christ” We determined to find a scripture is in his own home. He provides (D&C 20:59; see verses 46 and 68 that would be a starting place for his priesthood service to his father and for priests). search to learn the responsibilities of mother as they lead the family. He Many young men think that their his new calling. also watches over his brothers and missionary experience starts when We turned to the 107th section of sisters, the young men of his quorum, they turn 19 and enter the Missionary the Doctrine and Covenants, verse 85. and the other members of the ward. Training Center. We learn from the It mentions that a deacons quorum 2. A deacon assists the teacher in all scriptures that it starts long before president is to sit in council with his his duties in the Church if occasion that. The Lord wants every Aaronic quorum members and teach them requires (see D&C 20:57). Priesthood holder to invite all to their duties. We noted that his quorum We determined that if a deacon come unto Christ—beginning with is not only a class but also a council of is to assist with the teachers’ duties, his own family. young men, and they are to strengthen he needs to know their duties. and edify one another under the We looked in the scriptures and Next, to help this young president president’s direction. I expressed con- quickly identified over a dozen understand that he and he alone was fidence that he would be an outstand- duties for the office of teacher (see the presiding officer in the quorum, I ing president who would rely on the D&C 20:53–59; 84:111). What a suggested he read three times the first inspiration from the Lord and magnify powerful experience it would be duty listed in Doctrine and Covenants his sacred calling as he taught his for every young man—and his 107:85. He read, “Preside over twelve fellow deacons their duties. father, advisers, and all of us—to deacons.” I asked, “What is the Lord Then I asked, “Knowing you are to do exactly what this young man telling you personally about your duty teach the deacons their duties, do you did: go to the scriptures and dis- as president?” know what those duties are?” cover for ourselves what our duties “Well,” he said, “several things Again we turned to the scriptures are. I suspect that many of us will have popped into my head as we and found: be surprised—and inspired—by have been talking. I think Heavenly what we find. Duty to God con- Father wants me to be president of 1. A deacon is appointed to watch tains helpful summaries of Aaronic twelve deacons. There are only five over and be a standing minister in Priesthood duties and is a great of us who come, and one comes only the Church (see D&C 84:111). resource for spiritual development. sometimes. So how do we get twelve?” Because the family is the basic I urge you to consistently use it. Now, I had never interpreted this 56 scripture the way he did, but then, he In awe, I said, “In the Lord’s view, priests quorum presidency to regularly held sacred keys that I did not have. I does your bishop have responsibility counsel, study, and pray to learn what was being taught by a 13-year-old dea- for only the members of the ward or the Lord’s will is for your quorum and cons quorum president about the reve- for all who live within its boundaries?” then go and do. Use Duty to God to latory power that comes to those with This young “standing minister” got help you teach your quorum members the sacred keys of presidency regardless it. He recognized the role of every their duties. I invite each quorum mem- of their intellect, stature, or age. deacon, teacher, and priest in watch- ber to sustain your quorum president I answered, “I don’t know. What do ing over the Church and inviting all to and look to him for counsel as you you think?” come unto Christ. learn and righteously fulfill all of your And he said, “We need to figure My thoughts turn to a scripture as priesthood duties. And I invite each of out how to keep him coming. I know I think of our wonderful young men us to see these remarkable young men there are two others who should be and women of the Church—a scrip- as the Lord sees them—a powerful in our quorum, but they don’t come, ture that Moroni quoted to Joseph resource for building and strengthening and I don’t know them. Maybe I can Smith, saying that it had “not yet His kingdom here and now. become close friends with one and [been] fulfilled, but was soon to be” You wonderful young men hold the have my counselors work with the ( Joseph Smith—History 1:41)—“And Aaronic Priesthood, restored by John others. If they all came, we would it shall come to pass afterward, that I the Baptist to Joseph Smith and Oliver have seven, but where do we get will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; Cowdery near Harmony, Pennsylvania. five more?” and your sons and your daughters Your priesthood holds the sacred keys “I don’t know,” was my answer, shall prophesy, . . . your young men that open the door for all of Heavenly “but if Heavenly Father wants them shall see visions” ( Joel 2:28). Father’s children to come unto His there, He knows.” What “popped into” this young Son, Jesus Christ, and follow Him. This “Then we need to pray as a presi- president’s head was a vision of what is provided through “the gospel of dency and quorum to find out what to Heavenly Father wants his quorum to repentance, and of baptism by immer- do.” He then asked, “Am I responsible be. It was the revelation he needed to sion for the remission of sins”; the for all deacon-age boys in our ward, strengthen the active members of his weekly ordinance of the sacrament; and even those who are not members?” quorum, to rescue those who were “the ministering of angels” (D&C 13:1; struggling, and to invite all to come Joseph Smith—History 1:69). You truly unto Christ. Thus inspired, he made are ministers who must be clean and plans to carry out the Lord’s will. worthy and faithful priesthood men at The Lord taught this young presi- all times and in all places. dent that priesthood means reaching Why? Listen to the words of our out to serve others. As our beloved beloved First Presidency, given to each prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, one of you in your Duty to God: explains: “The priesthood is not really “You have the authority to admin- so much a gift as it is a commission ister the ordinances of the Aaronic to serve, a privilege to lift, and an Priesthood. . . . You will greatly bless opportunity to bless the lives of oth- the lives of those around you. . . . ers” (“Our Sacred Priesthood Trust,” “Heavenly Father has great trust ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2006, 57). and confidence in you and has an Service is the very foundation of important mission for you to ful- the priesthood—service to others as fill” (Fulfilling My Duty to God: For exemplified by the Savior. I testify Aaronic Priesthood Holders [2010], 5). that it is His priesthood, we are on I know these words are true, and I His errand, and He has shown all pray that each of us will have that same priesthood holders the way of faithful witness. And I say these things in the priesthood service. sacred name of Him whose priesthood I invite each deacons, teachers, and we hold, Jesus Christ, amen. ◼

May 2011 57 By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Faithful Melchizedek Priesthood Second Counselor in the First Presidency holders can “become . . . the elect of God.” 4 They are “sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bod- ies” 5 and can ultimately receive “all that [the] Father hath.” 6 This may be Your Potential, hard to comprehend, but it is beauti- ful, and I testify that it is true. The fact that our Heavenly Father Your Privilege would entrust this power and respon- sibility to man is evidence of His great love for us and a foreshadowing of As you read the scriptures and listen to the words our potential as sons of God in the of the prophets with all your heart and mind, the Lord hereafter. will tell you how to live up to your priesthood privileges. Nevertheless, too often our actions suggest that we live far beneath this potential. When asked about the priesthood, many of us can recite a here once was a man whose life- farewell parties he would be attend- correct definition, but in our daily long dream was to board a cruise ing. It was then that the man learned lives, there may be little evidence that Tship and sail the Mediterranean that not only the farewell party but our understanding goes beyond the Sea. He dreamed of walking the almost everything on board the cruise level of a rehearsed script. streets of Rome, Athens, and Istanbul. ship—the food, the entertainment, Brethren, we are faced with a choice. He saved every penny until he had all the activities—had been included We can be satisfied with a diminished enough for his passage. Since money in the price of his ticket. Too late the experience as priesthood bearers and was tight, he brought an extra suit- man realized that he had been living settle for experiences far below our case filled with cans of beans, boxes far beneath his privileges. privileges. Or we can partake of an of crackers, and bags of powdered The question this parable raises is, abundant feast of spiritual opportunity lemonade, and that is what he lived Are we as priesthood holders living and universal priesthood blessings. on every day. below our privileges when it comes to He would have loved to take part the sacred power, gifts, and blessings What Can We Do to Live Up in the many activities offered on the that are our opportunity and right as to Our Potential? ship—working out in the gym, playing bearers of God’s priesthood? The words written in the scriptures miniature golf, and swimming in the and spoken in general conference pool. He envied those who went to The Glory and Grandeur are for us to “liken them unto [our- movies, shows, and cultural presen- of the Priesthood selves],” 7 not for reading or hearing tations. And, oh, how he yearned We all know that the priesthood is only.8 Too often we attend meetings for only a taste of the amazing food much more than just a name or title. and nod our heads; we might even he saw on the ship—every meal The Prophet Joseph taught that “the smile knowingly and agree. We jot appeared to be a feast! But the man Priesthood is an everlasting principle, down some action points, and we may wanted to spend so very little money and existed with God from eternity say to ourselves, “That is something I that he didn’t participate in any of . . . to eternity, without beginning of will do.” But somewhere between the these. He was able to see the cities he days or end of years.” 1 It holds “even hearing, the writing of a reminder on had longed to visit, but for the most the key of the knowledge of God.” 2 In our smartphone, and the actual doing, part of the journey, he stayed in his fact, through the priesthood the very our “do it” switch gets rotated to the cabin and ate only his humble food. “power of godliness is manifest.” 3 “later” position. Brethren, let’s make On the last day of the cruise, a The blessings of the priesthood sure to set our “do it” switch always to crew member asked him which of the transcend our ability to comprehend. the “now” position! 58 As you read the scriptures and lis- ten to the words of the prophets with all your heart and mind, the Lord will tell you how to live up to your priest- hood privileges. Don’t let a day go by without doing something to act on the promptings of the Spirit.

First: Read the Owner’s Manual If you owned the world’s most advanced and expensive computer, would you use it merely as a desk ornament? The computer may look impressive. It may have all kinds of potential. But it is only when you study the owner’s manual, learn how to use the software, and turn on the power that you can access its full potential. The holy priesthood of God also has an owner’s manual. Let us commit to reading the scriptures and handbooks with more purpose and more focus. Let us begin by rereading sections 20, 84, 107, and 121 of the Doctrine and Covenants. The more we study the purpose, potential, and practical use of the priesthood, the more we will be amazed by its power, and the Spirit will teach us how to access and use that power to bless our families, our communities, and the Church. As a people, we rightfully place high priority on secular learning and vocational development. We want to reach out and grasp their teachings. revelation, confirmed through honest and we must excel in scholarship and The principles and doctrines of the and dedicated application of gospel craftsmanship. I commend you for priesthood are sublime and super- principles. The Prophet Joseph Smith striving diligently to gain an education nal. The more we study the doctrine explained that the priesthood is a and become an expert in your field. I and potential and apply the practical “channel through which the Almighty invite you to also become experts in purpose of the priesthood, the more commenced revealing His glory at the the doctrines of the gospel—especially our souls will be expanded and our beginning of the creation of this earth, the doctrine of the priesthood. understanding enlarged, and we will and through which He has continued We live in a time when the scrip- see what the Lord has in store for us. to reveal Himself to the children of tures and the words of modern-day men to the present time.” 9 prophets are more easily accessible Second: Seek the Revelations of the Spirit If we are not seeking to use this than at any time in the history of the A sure testimony of Jesus Christ channel of revelation, we are living world. However, it is our privilege and of His restored gospel takes more beneath our priesthood privileges. For and duty, and it is our responsibility than knowledge—it requires personal example, there are those who believe

May 2011 59 to be merely going through the motions. They had mastered the sys- tems and the handling of the jets, but somewhere along the way they had lost the joy of flying “where never lark, or even eagle flew.” 16 They had lost their sense of awe at a glowing sun- rise, at the beauties of God’s creations as they crossed oceans and continents. If they met the official requirements, I certified them, but at the same time I Bucharest, Romania felt sorry for them. You may want to ask yourself if but don’t know that they believe. They bearers of the priesthood to seek per- you are merely going through the have received various answers by the sonal revelation and to learn how to motions as a priesthood bearer— still, small voice over an extended know the truth for ourselves through doing what is expected but not period of time, but because this the sure witness of the Holy Spirit. experiencing the joy that should be inspiration seems so small and insig- Let us earnestly seek the light of yours. Holding the priesthood gives us nificant, they do not recognize it for personal inspiration. Let us plead with abundant opportunities to feel the joy what it really is. As a result, they allow the Lord to endow our mind and soul that Ammon expressed: “Have we not doubts to keep them from fulfilling with the spark of faith that will enable great reason to rejoice? . . . We have their potential as priesthood holders. us to receive and recognize the divine been instruments in [the Lord’s] hands Revelation and testimony do not ministering of the Holy Spirit for our of doing this great and marvelous always come with overwhelming specific life situations and for our chal- work. Therefore, let us glory . . . in the force. For many, a testimony comes lenges and priesthood duties. Lord; yea, we will rejoice.” 17 slowly—a piece at a time. Sometimes Brethren, our religion is a joyful it comes so gradually that it is hard to Third: Find Joy in Priesthood Service one! We are most blessed to bear the recall the exact moment we actually During my career as an airline priesthood of God! In the book of knew the gospel was true. The Lord pilot, I had the opportunity to be a gives us “line upon line, precept upon check and training captain. Part of this precept, here a little and there a little.” 10 job was to train and test experienced In some ways, our testimony is pilots to ensure that they had the nec- like a snowball that grows larger with essary knowledge and skills to safely every turn. We start out with a small and efficiently operate those magnifi- amount of light—even if it is only cent big jets. a desire to believe. Gradually, “light I found that there were pilots who, cleaveth unto light,” 11 and “he that even after many years of flying profes- receiveth light, and continueth in God, sionally, never lost the thrill of climbing receiveth more light; and that light into the atmosphere, having “slipped groweth brighter and brighter until the the surly bonds of Earth and danced perfect day,” 12 when “in due time [we] the skies on laughter-silvered wings.” 14 receive of his fulness.” 13 They loved the sound of rushing air, Think of what a glorious thing it the growling of the powerful engines, is to reach beyond our earthly limita- the feeling of being “one with the wind tions, to have the eyes of our under- and one with the dark sky and the standing opened and receive light and stars ahead.” 15 Their enthusiasm was knowledge from celestial sources! It contagious. is our privilege and opportunity as There were also a few who seemed 60 Psalms we read, “Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy coun- tenance.” 18 We can experience this greater joy if we but look for it. Too often we fail to experience the bliss that comes from daily, practical priesthood service. At times assign- ments can feel like burdens. Brethren, let us not pass through life immersed in the three Ws: wearied, worrying, and whining. We live beneath our privileges when we allow worldly anchors to keep us away from the abundant joy that comes from faith- ful and dedicated priesthood service, especially within the walls of our own homes. We live beneath our privileges when we fail to partake of the feast of happiness, peace, and joy that God grants so bountifully to faithful priest- hood servants. Young men, if coming to church early to help prepare the sacrament feels more like a hardship than a blessing, then I invite you to think about what this sacred ordinance might mean to a ward member who perhaps has had a challenging week. Brethren, if your home teaching efforts don’t seem to be effective to you, I invite you to see with the eye of faith what a visit from a servant of the our testimonies line upon line by 3. Doctrine and Covenants 84:20. Lord will do for a family that has many receiving the revelations of the Spirit, 4. Doctrine and Covenants 84:34. 5. Doctrine and Covenants 84:33. unseen problems. When you grasp and may we find true joy in daily 6. Doctrine and Covenants 84:38. the divine potential of your priesthood priesthood service. As we do these 7. 1 Nephi 19:24. service, the Spirit of God will fill your things, we will begin to live up to our 8. See James 1:22. hearts and minds; it will shine in your potential and privileges as priesthood 9. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 108–9. 10. 2 Nephi 28:30. eyes and faces. holders, and we will be able to “do all 11. Doctrine and Covenants 88:40. As bearers of the priesthood, let things through Christ which strength- 12. Doctrine and Covenants 50:24. us never become hardened to the eneth [us].” 19 Of this I bear testimony 13. Doctrine and Covenants 93:19. wonder and awe of what the Lord has as an Apostle of the Lord and leave 14. John Gillespie Magee Jr., “High Flight,” in Diane Ravitch, ed., The American Reader: entrusted to us. you my blessing in the sacred name of Words That Moved a Nation (1990), 486. Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 15. Richard Bach, Stranger to the Ground Conclusion (1963), 9. My dear brethren, may we dili- NOTES 16. Magee, “High Flight,” 486. 1. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: 17. Alma 26:13, 15–16. gently seek to learn the doctrine of the Joseph Smith (2007), 104. 18. Psalm 89:15. holy priesthood, may we strengthen 2. Doctrine and Covenants 84:19. 19. Philippians 4:13.

May 2011 61 By President Henry B. Eyring were the wisest men in the world. First Counselor in the First Presidency He waited until all who would speak had spoken. He listened. And when he decided what should be done, it seemed to me that the Spirit con- firmed the decisions to us and to him. Learning in I realize now I had felt what the scripture means when it says that the president is to sit in council with the the Priesthood members of his quorum. 1 And years later as I was a bishop with my priests quorum, both they and I were taught If you will be diligent and obedient in the priesthood, by what I had learned as a young priest. treasures of spiritual knowledge will be poured out upon you. Twenty years later as a bishop, I had the opportunity to see the effectiveness of a council not just in the meetinghouse but also in the am grateful to be with you in this that made the difference. What was mountains. During a Saturday activity, meeting of the priesthood of God. there in that ward could be anywhere, a member of our quorum had been I We are in many different places in whatever unit of the Church you lost in the forest overnight. As far as tonight and at many stages in our are in. we knew, he was alone and without priesthood service. Yet with all the These three things may be so warm clothes, food, or shelter. We variety of our circumstances, we have much a part of your experience in searched for him without success. a need in common. It is to learn our the priesthood that you hardly notice My memory is that we prayed duties in the priesthood and to grow them. For others you may not feel the together, the priests quorum and I, in our power to perform them. need for growth, so these helps may and I then asked each to speak. I As a deacon I felt keenly that need. be invisible to you. Either way, I pray listened intently, and it seemed to me I lived in a tiny branch of the Church that the Spirit will help me make them that they did too, to each other. After in New Jersey, on the East Coast of the clear and attractive to you. a while, a feeling of peace settled on United States. I was the only deacon My purpose in speaking of these us. I felt that our lost quorum member in the branch—not just the only one three aids to growing in the priest- was safe and dry somewhere. attending but the only one on the hood is to urge you to value them and It became clear to me what the records. My older brother, Ted, was to use them. If you do, your service quorum was to do and not to do. the only teacher. He is here tonight. will be transformed for the better. When the people who found him While I was still a deacon, my And if it is magnified, your priesthood described the place in the woods family moved to Utah. There I found service will bless Heavenly Father’s where he had gone for safety, I felt three wonderful things in place to children more than you can now that I recognized it. But the larger mir- speed my growth in the priesthood. imagine is possible. acle for me was to see a united priest- The first was a president who knew I found the first when I was wel- hood council’s faith in Jesus Christ how to sit in council with the mem- comed into a priests quorum, with bringing revelation to the man with bers of his quorum. The second was the bishop as our president. That may the priesthood keys. We all grew that great faith in Jesus Christ that led to seem a small, unremarkable thing to day in the power of the priesthood. the great love we have heard of—love you, but it gave me a sense of power The second key to increased for each other. And the third was a in the priesthood that has changed my learning is to have love for each other shared conviction that our overarching service in the priesthood ever since. It that comes from great faith. I am priesthood purpose was to labor for began by the way he led us. not sure which comes first, but both the salvation of men. As near as I could tell, he treated always seem to be there whenever It wasn’t the well-established ward the opinions of young priests as if we there is great and rapid learning in the 62 brother . . . in the bonds of love.” 3 Now, we do not follow that prac- tice today, but wherever I have seen remarkable learning in the priesthood, there are those bonds of love. Again I have seen it as both a cause and an effect of learning gospel truths. Love invites the Holy Ghost to be present to confirm truth. And the joy of learning divine truths creates love in the hearts of people who shared the experience of learning. The reverse is true as well. Discord or jealousy inhibits the ability of the Holy Ghost to teach us and inhibits our ability to receive light and truth. And the feelings of disappointment that invariably follow are the seeds of greater discord and faultfinding among those who expected a learning experience that did not come. The priesthood holders who learn well together always seem to me to have great peacemakers among them. You see peacemaking in priesthood classes and in councils. It is the gift to help people find common ground when others are seeing differences. It priesthood. Joseph Smith taught that and let all listen unto his sayings, that is the peacemaker’s gift to help people to us by example. when all have spoken that all may be see that what someone else said was a In the early days of the Church edified of all, and that every man may contribution rather than a correction. in this dispensation, he received a have an equal privilege.” 2 With enough of the pure love of command from God to build strength The Lord is describing what we Christ and a desire to be peacemakers, in the priesthood. He was directed to have already seen is the strength of a unity is possible in priesthood coun- create schools for priesthood holders. priesthood council or a class to bring cils and in classes. It takes patience The Lord set the requirement that revelation by the Spirit. Revelation is and humility, but I have seen it hap- there be love for each other among the only way we can come to know pen even when issues are difficult and those who were to teach and to be that Jesus is the Christ. That great faith the people in councils or classes come taught. Here are the words of the Lord is the first rung on the ladder we climb from vastly different backgrounds. about creating a place of priesthood to learn the principles of the gospel. It is possible to rise to the lofty learning and what it was like for those In section 88 of the Doctrine and standard set by the Lord for priest- who were to learn in it: Covenants, in verses 123 and 124, hood holders in making decisions in “Organize yourselves; . . . establish the Lord stressed love for each other quorums. It is possible when there is a house . . . of learning, . . . a house of and not finding fault with each other. great faith and love and the absence of order. . . . Each gained entry into the priest- contention. Here is the Lord’s require- “Appoint among yourselves a hood school established by the Lord’s ment for His endorsement of our teacher, and let not all be spokesmen prophet by making a covenant with decisions: “And every decision made by at once; but let one speak at a time uplifted hands to be a “friend and either of these quorums must be by the

May 2011 63 she was wonderful. She had lived among the Latter-day Saints most of her life but was still not a member. She walked up to show me to the door. He motioned toward her and said with a smile, “See, I can’t seem to do anything. I have been trying to get her baptized into the Church, but it hasn’t worked.” She smiled back at him and at me. I walked outside and turned toward my home nearby. I realized then that the answers to his questions were planted long ago in unanimous voice of the same; that is, come to our quorum meetings. He lives his heart. That valiant high priest was every member in each quorum must be alone. His beautiful wife died, and his trying to do his duty, taught to him agreed to its decisions, in order to make children live far away from him. Time through decades in the priesthood. their decisions of the same power or and illness limit his ability to serve. He He knew that the only way that validity one with the other.” 4 still lifts weights to keep what he can of young woman could have the bless- The third aid to learning in the his once-powerful strength. ing of salvation through the gospel of priesthood comes with a shared When I walked into his home, he Jesus Christ was to make a covenant conviction about why the Lord blesses stood up from his walker to greet me. by being baptized. He had been and trusts us to hold and to exercise He invited me to sit in a chair near taught according to the covenants by His priesthood. It is to labor for the him. We talked of our happy associa- every president of every quorum from salvation of men. This shared con- tions in the priesthood. the deacons to the high priests. viction brings unity in quorums. We Then with great intensity he said to He remembered and felt his own can begin to learn about this from me, “Why am I still living? Why am I oath and covenant in the priesthood. the scriptural account of how we still here? I can’t do anything.” He was still keeping it. spirit sons were prepared before birth I told him that he was doing He was a witness and a missionary for this rare honor of holding the something for me. He was lifting me for the Savior wherever life would priesthood. with his faith and his love. Even in take him. It was already in his heart. Speaking of those given great our short visit, he made me want to The desire of his heart was that her priesthood trust in this life, the Lord be better. His example of determina- heart could be changed through the said, “Even before they were born, they, tion to do something that mattered Atonement of Jesus Christ by keeping with many others, received their first had inspired me to try harder to serve sacred covenants. lessons in the world of spirits and were others and the Lord. His time in the school of the priest- prepared to come forth in the due time But from the sad sound of his voice hood in this life will be relatively brief of the Lord to labor in his vineyard for and the look in his eyes, I could sense compared to eternity. But even in that the salvation of the souls of men.” 5 that I had not answered his questions. short span, he has mastered the eter- In the priesthood we share the He still wondered why God let him nal curriculum. He will carry with him, sacred duty to labor for the souls of live with such limitations on his ability wherever the Lord will call, priesthood men. We must do more than learn that to serve. lessons of eternal worth. this is our duty. It must go down into In his usual generous way, he Not only should you be eager to our hearts so deeply that neither the thanked me for coming to see him. learn your priesthood lessons in this many demands on our efforts in the As I got up to leave, the nurse who life, but you should be optimistic bloom of life nor the trials that come comes to his home a few hours every about what is possible. A few of us with age can turn us from that purpose. day walked in from another room. may limit in our minds our possibili- Not long ago I visited a high priest During our private conversation, he ties to learn what the Lord sets before in his home. He is no longer able to had told me a little about her. He said us in His service. 64 from that to another mission across study in some fine school. I pray that the ocean in the very village he had you will see the greatness of God’s left in his poverty to follow the Lord. love for you and of the opportunity Through it all, he found a way He has given you to enter His priest- to learn with his priesthood breth- hood school. ren. Bold missionary that he was, he If you will be diligent and obe- walked down the lane in Wales to the dient in the priesthood, treasures of summer estate of a man who was four spiritual knowledge will be poured times the prime minister of England to out upon you. You will grow in your offer him the gospel of Jesus Christ. power to resist evil and to proclaim The great man let him into his the truth that leads to salvation. You mansion. He was a graduate of Eton will find joy in the happiness of those College and of Oxford University. you lead toward exaltation. Your fam- One young man left his little Welsh The missionary talked with him about ily will become a place of learning. village in the early 1840s, heard the the origins of man, the central role of I testify that the keys of the priest- Apostles of God, and came into the Jesus Christ in the history of the world, hood have been restored. President kingdom of God on earth. He sailed and even the fate of nations. Thomas S. Monson holds and exer- with the Saints to America and drove a At the end of their discussion, the cises those keys. God lives and knows wagon west across the plains. He was host declined the offer to accept bap- you perfectly. Jesus Christ lives. You in the next company after Brigham tism. But as they parted, that leader of were chosen for the honor of holding Young coming into this valley. His one of the great empires of the world the sacred priesthood. In the name of priesthood service included clearing asked the humble missionary, “Where Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ and breaking ground for a farm. did you get your education?” His NOTES He sold the farm for pennies on the answer: “In the priesthood of God.” 1. See Doctrine and Covenants 107:87. dollar to go on a mission for the Lord You may have thought at one time 2. Doctrine and Covenants 88:119, 122. 3. Doctrine and Covenants 88:133. in the deserts of what is now Nevada how much better your life would have 4. Doctrine and Covenants 107:27. to take care of sheep. He was called been if only you had been admitted to 5. Doctrine and Covenants 138:56. subject yourself to the innuendo and By President Thomas S. Monson outright filth which are so often found there. The lyrics in much of today’s music fall in the same category. The profanity so prevalent around us today would never have been tolerated in Priesthood Power the not-too-distant past. Sadly, the Lord’s name is taken in vain over and May we be worthy recipients of the divine power of the over again. Recall with me the com- mandment—one of the ten—which priesthood we bear. May it bless our lives and may we the Lord revealed to Moses on Mount use it to bless the lives of others. Sinai: “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” 2 I am sorry that any prayed and studied long about what of heaven cannot be controlled nor of us is subjected to profane language, I might say tonight. I wish not to handled only upon the principles of and I plead with you not to use it. I I offend anyone. I thought, “What are righteousness. implore you not to say or to do any- the challenges we have? What do I “That they may be conferred upon thing of which you cannot be proud. deal with every day that causes me to us, it is true; but when we undertake to Stay completely away from pornog- weep sometimes late into the night?” cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, raphy. Do not allow yourself to view it, I thought that I would try to address a our vain ambition, or to exercise con- ever. It has proven to be an addiction few of those challenges tonight. Some trol or dominion or compulsion upon which is more than difficult to over- will apply to the young men. Some the souls of the children of men, in any come. Avoid alcohol and tobacco or will apply to those who are middle degree of unrighteousness, behold, any other drugs, also addictions which aged. Some will apply to those who the heavens withdraw themselves; the you would be hard pressed to conquer. are a little bit above middle age. We Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when What will protect you from the sin don’t talk about old age. it is withdrawn, Amen to the priest- and evil around you? I maintain that a And so I simply want to begin by hood or the authority of that man.” 1 strong testimony of our Savior and of declaring, it has been good for us to Brethren, that is the definitive word His gospel will help see you through be together this evening. We’ve heard of the Lord concerning His divine to safety. If you have not read the Book wonderful and timely messages con- authority. We cannot be in doubt as to of Mormon, read it. I will not ask for a cerning the priesthood of God. I, with the obligation this places upon each show of hands. If you do so prayerfully you, have been uplifted and inspired. of us who bear the priesthood of God. and with a sincere desire to know the Tonight I wish to address matters We have come to the earth in truth, the Holy Ghost will manifest its which have been much on my mind troubled times. The moral compass of truth to you. If it is true—and it is — of late and which I have felt impressed the masses has gradually shifted to an then Joseph Smith was a prophet who to share with you. In one way or “almost anything goes” position. saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus another, they all relate to the per- I’ve lived long enough to have wit- Christ. The Church is true. If you do sonal worthiness required to receive nessed much of the metamorphosis of not already have a testimony of these and exercise the sacred power of the society’s morals. Where once the stan- things, do that which is necessary to priesthood which we hold. dards of the Church and the standards obtain one. It is essential for you to May I begin by reciting to you of society were mostly compatible, have your own testimony, for the testi- from section 121 of the Doctrine and now there is a wide chasm between monies of others will carry you only so Covenants: us, and it’s growing ever wider. far. Once obtained, a testimony needs “The rights of the priesthood Many movies and television shows to be kept vital and alive through are inseparably connected with the portray behavior which is in direct obedience to the commandments of powers of heaven, and . . . the powers opposition to the laws of God. Do not God and through regular prayer and 66 scripture study. Attend church. You This is not a new situation. Much sacrifice and to make difficult decisions. young men, attend seminary or insti- has been said concerning this matter Perhaps you are afraid of making the tute if such is available to you. by past Presidents of the Church. I wrong choice. To this I say that you Should there be anything amiss share with you just one or two exam- need to exercise faith. Find someone in your life, there is open to you a ples of their counsel. with whom you can be compatible. way out. Cease any unrighteousness. Said President Harold B. Lee, “We Realize that you will not be able to Talk with your bishop. Whatever are not doing our duty as holders of anticipate every challenge which the problem, it can be worked out the priesthood when we go beyond may arise, but be assured that almost through proper repentance. You can the marriageable age and withhold anything can be worked out if you are become clean once again. Said the ourselves from an honorable marriage resourceful and if you are committed to Lord, speaking of those who repent, to these lovely women.” 6 making your marriage work. “Though your sins be as scarlet, they President Gordon B. Hinckley said Perhaps you are having a little too shall be as white as snow,” 3 “and I, the this: “My heart reaches out to . . . our much fun being single, taking extrava- Lord, remember them no more.” 4 single sisters, who long for marriage gant vacations, buying expensive cars The Savior of mankind described and cannot seem to find it. . . . I have and toys, and just generally enjoying Himself as being in the world but far less sympathy for the young men, the carefree life with your friends. I’ve not of the world.5 We also can be in who under the customs of our society, encountered groups of you running the world but not of the world as we have the prerogative to take the ini- around together, and I admit that I’ve reject false concepts and false teach- tiative in these matters but in so many wondered why you aren’t out with the ings and remain true to that which cases fail to do so.” 7 young ladies. God has commanded. I realize there are many reasons Brethren, there is a point at which Now, I have thought a lot lately why you may be hesitating to take that it’s time to think seriously about mar- about you young men who are of an step of getting married. If you are con- riage and to seek a companion with age to marry but who have not yet cerned about providing financially for a whom you want to spend eternity. If felt to do so. I see lovely young ladies wife and family, may I assure you that you choose wisely and if you are com- who desire to be married and to raise there is no shame in a couple having to mitted to the success of your marriage, families, and yet their opportunities scrimp and save. It is generally during there is nothing in this life which will are limited because so many young these challenging times that you will bring you greater happiness. men are postponing marriage. grow closer together as you learn to When you marry, brethren, you will

May 2011 67 wish to marry in the house of the Lord. Choose a companion carefully and Many years ago in the ward over For you who hold the priesthood, there prayerfully; and when you are mar- which I presided as the bishop, there should be no other option. Be careful ried, be fiercely loyal one to another. lived a couple who often had very lest you destroy your eligibility to be so Priceless advice comes from a small serious, heated disagreements. I mean married. You can keep your courtship framed plaque I once saw in the home real disagreements. Each of the two was within proper bounds while still having of an uncle and aunt. It read, “Choose certain of his or her position. Neither a wonderful time. your love; love your choice.” There one would yield to the other. When Now, brethren, I turn to another is great wisdom in those few words. they weren’t arguing, they maintained subject about which I feel impressed Commitment in marriage is absolutely what I would call an uneasy truce. to address you. In the three years since essential. One morning at 2:00 a.m. I had a I was sustained as President of the Your wife is your equal. In marriage telephone call from the couple. They Church, I believe the saddest and most neither partner is superior nor inferior wanted to talk to me, and they wanted discouraging responsibility I have each to the other. You walk side by side as to talk right then. I dragged myself week is the handling of cancellations a son and a daughter of God. She is from bed, dressed, and went to their of sealings. Each one was preceded not to be demeaned or insulted but home. They sat on opposite sides of by a joyous marriage in the house of should be respected and loved. Said the room, not speaking to each other. the Lord, where a loving couple was President Gordon B. Hinckley: “Any The wife communicated with her hus- beginning a new life together and man in this Church who . . . exercises band by talking to me. He replied to looking forward to spending the rest unrighteous dominion over [his wife] her by talking to me. I thought, “How of eternity with each other. And then is unworthy to hold the priesthood. in the world are we going to get this months and years go by, and for one Though he may have been ordained, couple together?” reason or another, love dies. It may be the heavens will withdraw, the Spirit I prayed for inspiration, and the the result of financial problems, lack of of the Lord will be grieved, and it will thought came to me to ask them a communication, uncontrolled tempers, be amen to the authority of the priest- question. I said, “How long has it been interference from in-laws, entangle- hood of that man.” 8 since you have been to the temple ment in sin. There are any number of President Howard W. Hunter said and witnessed a temple sealing?” They reasons. In most cases divorce does not this about marriage: “Being happily admitted it had been a very long time. have to be the outcome. and successfully married is generally They were otherwise worthy people The vast majority of requests for can- not so much a matter of marrying the who held temple recommends and cellations of sealings come from women right person as it is being the right per- who went to the temple and did ordi- who tried desperately to make a go of son.” I like that. “The conscious effort nance work for others. the marriage but who, in the final analy- to do one’s part fully is the greatest I said to them, “Will you come sis, could not overcome the problems. element contributing to success.” 9 with me to the temple on Wednesday 68 morning at 8:00? We will witness a sealing ceremony there.” In unison they asked, “Whose ceremony?” I responded, “I don’t know. It will be for whoever is getting married that morning.” On the following Wednesday at the appointed hour, we met at the . The three of us went into one of the beautiful sealing rooms, not knowing a soul in the room except Elder ElRay L. We left the temple that day, and no men and boys holding the priesthood. Christiansen, then an Assistant to the one ever knew who we were or why The gift of the priesthood is price- Quorum of the Twelve, a General we had come, but my friends were less. It carries with it the authority to act Authority position which existed holding hands as they walked out the as God’s servants, to administer to the at that time. Elder Christiansen was front door. Their differences had been sick, to bless our families, and to bless scheduled to perform a sealing cere- set aside. I had not had to say one others as well. Its authority can reach mony for a bride and groom in that word. You see, they remembered their beyond the veil of death, on into the very room that morning. I am confi- own wedding day and the covenants eternities. There is nothing else to com- dent the bride and her family thought, they had made in the house of God. pare with it in all this world. Safeguard “These must be friends of the groom” They were committed to beginning it, treasure it, live worthy of it.10 and that the groom’s family thought, again and trying harder this time My beloved brethren, may righ- “These must be friends of the bride.” around. teousness guide our every step as My couple were seated on a little If any of you are having difficulty in we journey through life. Today and bench with about a full two feet your marriage, I urge you to do all that always, may we be worthy recipients (0.6 m) of space between them. you can to make whatever repairs are of the divine power of the priesthood Elder Christiansen began by provid- necessary, that you might be as happy we bear. May it bless our lives and ing counsel to the couple who were as you were when your marriage started may we use it to bless the lives of oth- being married, and he did so in a out. We who are married in the house ers, as did He who lived and died for beautiful fashion. He mentioned how of the Lord do so for time and for all us—even Jesus Christ, our Lord and a husband should love his wife, how eternity, and then we must put forth the Savior. This is my prayer in His sacred he should treat her with respect and necessary effort to make it so. I realize name, His holy name, amen. ◼ courtesy, honoring her as the heart of that there are situations where marriages NOTES the home. Then he talked to the bride cannot be saved, but I feel strongly 1. Doctrine and Covenants 121:36–37. about how she should honor her hus- that for the most part they can be and 2. Exodus 20:7. band as the head of the home and be should be. Do not let your marriage get 3. Isaiah 1:18. 4. Doctrine and Covenants 58:42. of support to him in every way. to the point where it is in jeopardy. 5. See John 17:14; Doctrine and Covenants I noticed that as Elder Christiansen President Hinckley taught that it is 49:5. spoke to the bride and the groom, my up to each of us who hold the priest- 6. “President Harold B. Lee’s General Priesthood Address,” ­Ensign, Jan. 1974, couple moved a little closer together. hood of God to discipline ourselves so 100. Soon they were seated right next to one that we stand above the ways of the 7. Gordon B. Hinckley, “What God Hath another. What pleased me is that they world. It is essential that we be hon- Joined Together,” ­Ensign, May 1991, 71. 8. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Personal Worthiness had both moved at about the same rate. orable and decent men. Our actions to Exercise the Priesthood,” ­Liahona, July By the end of the ceremony, my couple must be above reproach. 2002, 60; ­Ensign, May 2002, 54. were sitting as close to each other as The words we speak, the way we 9. The Teachings of Howard W. Hunter, ed. Clyde J. Williams (1997), 130. though they were the newlyweds. Each treat others, and the way we live our 10. See Gordon B. Hinckley, ­Liahona, July was smiling. lives all impact our effectiveness as 2002, 58–61; ­Ensign, May 2002, 52–59.

May 2011 69 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION | April 3, 2011

There are many others who, for dif- ferent reasons, find themselves waiting By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf on the road to Damascus. They delay Second Counselor in the First Presidency becoming fully engaged as disciples. They hope to receive the priesthood but hesitate to live worthy of that priv- ilege. They desire to enter the temple but delay the final act of faith to qual- Waiting on the Road ify. They remain waiting for the Christ to be given to them like a magnificent Carl Bloch painting—to remove once to Damascus and for all their doubts and fears. The truth is, those who diligently seek to learn of Christ eventually will Those who diligently seek to learn of Christ eventually will come to know Him. They will per- come to know Him. sonally receive a divine portrait of the Master, although it most often comes in the form of a puzzle—one piece at a time. Each individual piece may ne of the most remarkable the prayers of His children. not be easily recognizable by itself; events in the history of the Nevertheless, there are some who it may not be clear how it relates to Oworld happened on the road feel that unless they have an experi- the whole. Each piece helps us to see to Damascus. You know well the story ence similar to Saul’s or Joseph Smith’s, the big picture a little more clearly. of Saul, a young man who had “made they cannot believe. They stand at the Eventually, after enough pieces have havock of the church, entering into waters of baptism but do not enter. been put together, we recognize the every house . . . [committing the Saints] They wait at the threshold of testi- grand beauty of it all. Then, looking to prison.” 1 Saul was so hostile that mony but cannot bring themselves to back on our experience, we see that many members of the early Church acknowledge the truth. Instead of tak- the Savior had indeed come to be with fled Jerusalem in the hope of escaping ing small steps of faith on the path of us—not all at once but quietly, gently, his anger. discipleship, they want some dramatic almost unnoticed. Saul pursued them. But as he “came event to compel them to believe. This can be our experience if near Damascus . . . suddenly there They spend their days waiting on we move forward with faith and shined round about him a light from the road to Damascus. do not wait too long on the road to heaven: Damascus. “And he fell to the earth, and heard Belief Comes One Step at a Time a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, One dear sister had been a faithful Hearken and Heed why persecutest thou me?” 2 member of the Church all her life. But I testify to you that our Father in This transformative moment she carried a personal sorrow. Years Heaven loves His children. He loves changed Saul forever. Indeed, it before, her daughter had died after a us. He loves you. When necessary changed the world. short illness, and the wounds from this the Lord will even carry you over We know that manifestations such tragedy still haunted her. She agonized obstacles as you seek His peace with as this happen. In fact, we testify that over the profound questions that a broken heart and a contrite spirit. a similar divine experience happened accompany an event such as this. She Often He speaks to us in ways that in 1820 to a boy named Joseph Smith. frankly admitted that her testimony we can hear only with our heart. It is our clear and certain testimony wasn’t what it used to be. She felt that To better hear His voice, it would that the heavens are open again and unless the heavens parted for her, she be wise to turn down the volume that God speaks to His prophets would never be able to believe again. control of the worldly noise in our and apostles. God hears and answers So she found herself waiting. lives. If we ignore or block out the 70

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

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY April 2011

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 Claudio R. M. Costa Steven E. Snow Walter F. González L. Whitney Clayton Jay E. Jensen Donald L. Hallstrom THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY (in alphabetical order) (in alphabetical order)

Marcos A. Aidukaitis José L. Alonso Carlos H. Amado Ian S. Ardern Mervyn B. Arnold David S. Baxter Shayne M. Bowen Gérald Caussé Yoon Hwan Choi Craig C. Christensen Wilford W. Andersen Koichi Aoyagi Randall K. Bennett Tad R. Callister

Don R. Clarke Gary J. Coleman Carl B. Cook Lawrence E. Corbridge LeGrand R. Curtis Jr. Benjamín De Hoyos John B. Dickson Kevin R. Duncan David F. Evans Enrique R. Falabella Craig A. Cardon Bruce A. Carlson J. Devn Cornish Keith R. Edwards

Eduardo Gavarret Carlos A. Godoy Christoffel Golden Jr. Gerrit W. Gong C. Scott Grow James J. Hamula Keith K. Hilbig Richard G. Hinckley Marlin K. Jensen Daniel L. Johnson Stanley G. Ellis Bradley D. Foster Larry W. Gibbons O. Vincent Haleck

Paul V. Johnson Yoshihiko Kikuchi Paul E. Koelliker Erich W. Kopischke Richard J. Maynes Marcus B. Nash Brent H. Nielson Allan F. Packer Kevin W. Pearson Won Yong Ko Larry R. Lawrence Per G. Malm James B. Martino

Anthony D. Perkins Paul B. Pieper Rafael E. Pino Bruce D. Porter Carl B. Pratt Dale G. Renlund Michael T. Ringwood Lynn G. Robbins Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. Joseph W. Sitati Jairo Mazzagardi Kent F. Richards Gregory A. Schwitzer Lowell M. Snow

THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC

Ulisses Soares Gary E. Stevenson Michael John U. Teh José A. Teixeira Juan A. Uceda Francisco J. Viñas Paul K. Sybrowsky Kent D. Watson Larry Y. Wilson

Richard C. Edgley H. David Burton Keith B. McMullin First Counselor Presiding Bishop Second Counselor

W. Christopher Waddell William R. Walker F. Michael Watson Kazuhiko Yamashita Jorge F. Zeballos Claudio D. Zivic W. Craig Zwick “Fellowcitizens with the saints” (Ephesians 2:19) throughout the world gather for the 181st Annual General Conference of the Church. Pictured clockwise from top left are Latter-day Saints in Lusaka, Zambia; Kyiv, Ukraine; St. Catherine, Jamaica; São Paulo, Brazil; Odenton, Maryland, USA; Dortmund, Germany; and Coimbra, Portugal. promptings of the Spirit for whatever “Suffer the little children to come unto Serve reason, they become less noticeable me, and forbid them not: for of such is Another reason we sometimes do until we cannot hear them at all. Let the kingdom of God.” 3 not recognize the voice of the Lord in us learn to hearken to the promptings “His notes became a blur. He our lives is because the revelations of of the Spirit and then be eager to attempted to pursue the theme of the the Spirit may not come directly to us heed them. meeting as outlined, but the name as the answer to our prayers. Our beloved prophet, Thomas S. and image of [the little girl] would not Our Father in Heaven expects us Monson, is our example in this regard. leave his mind.” 4 to study it out first and then pray for The stories of his attention to the He listened to the Spirit and re­ guidance as we seek answers to ques- whisperings of the Spirit are numer- arranged his schedule. Early the next tions and concerns in our personal ous. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland relates morning, President Monson left the lives. We have our Heavenly Father’s one such example: ninety and nine and traveled many assurance that He will hear and Once while President Monson miles to be at the bedside of the one. answer our prayers. The answer may was on assignment in Louisiana, a Once there, he “gazed down upon come through the voice and wisdom stake president asked him if he would a child too ill to rise, too weak to of trusted friends and family, the scrip- have time to visit a 10-year-old girl speak. Her illness had now rendered tures, and the words of prophets. named Christal, who was in the final her sightless. Deeply touched by the It has been my experience that stages of cancer. Christal’s family had scene and the Spirit of the Lord . . . , some of the most powerful prompt- been praying that President Monson Brother Monson . . . took the child’s ings we receive are not only for our would come. But their home was far frail hand in his own. ‘Christal,’ he own benefit but also for the benefit of away, and the schedule was so tight whispered, ‘I am here.’ others. If we are thinking only of our- that there wasn’t time. So instead, “With great effort she whispered selves, we may miss some of the most President Monson asked that those back, ‘Brother Monson, I just knew powerful spiritual experiences and who offered prayers during the stake you would come.’” 5 profound revelations of our lives. conference include Christal in their My dear brothers and sisters, let us President Spencer W. Kimball prayers. Surely the Lord and the family strive to be among those whom the taught this concept when he said: would understand. Lord can rely on to hear His whisper- “God does notice us, and he watches During the Saturday session of ings and respond, as Saul did on his over us. But it is usually through the conference, as President Monson road to Damascus, “Lord, what wilt another person that he meets our stood to speak, the Spirit whispered, thou have me to do?” 6 needs. Therefore, it is vital that we

May 2011 75 and co-workers. They worry about how they might be perceived or how it might harm their relationship. It doesn’t need to be that way because we have a glad message to share, and we have a message of joy. Years ago our family lived and worked among people who in almost every case were not of our faith. When they asked us how our week- end was, we tried to skip the usual topics—like sports events, movies, or the weather—and tried to share some religious experiences we had as a fam- ily over the weekend—for instance, what a youth speaker had said about the standards from For the Strength of Youth or how we were touched by the words of a young man who was leaving on his mission or how the gospel and the Church helped us as a family to overcome a specific challenge we had. We tried not to be preachy or overbearing. My wife, Harriet, was always the best at finding something inspirational, uplifting, or humorous to share. This often would lead to more in-depth discussions. Interestingly enough, whenever we talked with friends about coping with life’s challenges, we often heard the serve each other.” 7 Brothers and sis- Share comment “It’s easy for you; you have ters, we each have a covenant respon- There are times when the Lord your church.” sibility to be sensitive to the needs of reveals to us things that are intended With so many social media others and serve as the Savior did—to only for us. Nevertheless, in many, resources and a multitude of more or reach out, bless, and uplift those many cases He entrusts a testimony less useful gadgets at our disposal, around us. of the truth to those who will share sharing the good news of the gospel Often, the answer to our prayer it with others. This has been the case is easier and the effects more far- does not come while we’re on our with every prophet since the days of reaching than ever before. In fact, I am knees but while we’re on our feet Adam. Even more, the Lord expects almost afraid that some listening have serving the Lord and serving those the members of His Church to “open already sent text messages like “He’s around us. Selfless acts of service and [their mouths] at all times, declar- been speaking for 10 minutes and still consecration refine our spirits, remove ing [His] gospel with the sound of no aviation analogy!” My dear young the scales from our spiritual eyes, rejoicing.” 8 friends, perhaps the Lord’s encourage- and open the windows of heaven. By This is not always easy. Some ment to “open [your] mouths” 9 might becoming the answer to someone’s would rather pull a handcart across today include “use your hands” to blog prayer, we often find the answer to the prairie than bring up the subject and text message the gospel to all the our own. of faith and religion to their friends world! But please remember, all at the 76 right time and at the right place. the gospel is through example. If we Opportunities to do so are all around Brothers and sisters, with the bless- live according to our beliefs, people us. Do not miss them by waiting too ings of modern technology, we can will notice. If the countenance of Jesus long on the road to Damascus. express gratitude and joy about God’s Christ shines in our lives,10 if we are great plan for His children in a way joyful and at peace with the world, Our Road to Damascus that can be heard not only around people will want to know why. One of I testify that the Lord speaks to His our workplace but around the world. the greatest sermons ever pronounced prophets and apostles in our day. He Sometimes a single phrase of testi- on missionary work is this simple also speaks to all who come to Him mony can set events in motion that thought attributed to Saint Francis with a sincere heart and real intent.12 affect someone’s life for eternity. of Assisi: “Preach the gospel at all Do not doubt. Remember, “Blessed The most effective way to preach times and if necessary, use words.” 11 are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” 13 God loves you. He São Paulo, Brazil hears your prayers. He speaks to His children and offers comfort, peace, and understanding to those who seek Him and honor Him by walking in His way. I bear my sacred witness that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is on course. We have a living prophet. This Church is led by Him whose name we bear, even the Savior Jesus Christ. Brothers and sisters, dear friends, let us not wait too long on our road to Damascus. Instead, let us coura- geously move forward in faith, hope, and charity, and we will be blessed with the light we are all seeking upon the path of true discipleship. For this I pray and leave you my blessing in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼

NOTES 1. Acts 8:3. 2. Acts 9:3–4. 3. Mark 10:14. 4. See Jeffrey R. Holland, “President Thomas S. Monson: Man of Action, Man of Faith, Always ‘on the Lord’s Errand,’” ­Ensign, Feb. 1986, 16; see also Jeffrey R. Holland, “President Thomas S. Monson: Always ‘on the Lord’s Errand,’” Tambuli, Oct.–Nov. 1986, 20. 5. Jeffrey R. Holland, ­Ensign, Feb. 1986, 16; see Tambuli, Oct.–Nov. 1986, 20. 6. Acts 9:6. 7. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball (2006), 82. 8. Doctrine and Covenants 28:16. 9. Doctrine and Covenants 60:2. 10. See Alma 5:14. 11. In William Fay and Linda Evans Shepherd, Share Jesus without Fear (1999), 22. 12. See Moroni 10:3–5. 13. John 20:29.

May 2011 77 By Elder Paul V. Johnson allowing this to happen?” The furnace Of the Seventy of affliction helps purify even the very best of Saints by burning away the dross in their lives and leaving behind pure gold.6 Even very rich ore needs refining to remove impurities. More Than Conquerors Being good is not enough. We want to become like the Savior, who learned as He suffered “pains and afflictions through Him and temptations of every kind.” 7 The Crimson Trail in Logan Canyon is one of my favorite hikes. The main part of the trail creeps along the top of That Loved Us tall limestone cliffs and offers beautiful vistas of the canyon and valley below. Trials are not just to test us. They are vitally important to the Getting to the top of the cliffs isn’t process of putting on the divine nature. easy, however. The trail there is a con- stant climb; and just before reaching the top, the climber encounters the steepest part of the trail; and views arth life includes tests, trials, and through sorrow and suffering, toil and of the canyon are hidden by the cliffs tribulations, and some of the trials tribulation, that we gain the education themselves. The final exertion is more Ewe face in life can be excruciat- that we come here to acquire.” 5 than worth the effort because once ing. Whether it be illness, betrayal, Recently a nine-year-old boy was the climber is on top, the views are temptations, loss of a loved one, diagnosed with a rare bone cancer. breathtaking. The only way to see the natural disasters, or some other ordeal, The doctor explained the diagnosis views is to make the climb. affliction is part of our mortal expe- and the treatment, which included A pattern in the scriptures and in rience. Many have wondered why months of chemotherapy and major life shows that many times the darkest, we must face difficult challenges. We surgery. He said it would be a very dif- most dangerous tests immediately pre- know that one reason is to provide a ficult time for the boy and his family cede remarkable events and tremen- trial of our faith to see if we will do all but then added, “People ask me, ‘Will dous growth. “After much tribulation the Lord has commanded.1 Fortunately I be the same after this is over?’ I tell come the blessings.” 8 The children of this earth life is the perfect setting to them, ‘No, you won’t be the same. You Israel were trapped against the Red face—and pass—these tests.2 will be so much stronger. You will be Sea before it was parted.9 Nephi faced But these trials are not just to awesome!’” danger, anger from his brothers, and test us. They are vitally important to At times it may seem that our trials multiple failures before he was able the process of putting on the divine are focused on areas of our lives and to procure the brass plates.10 Joseph nature.3 If we handle these afflictions parts of our souls with which we Smith was overcome by an evil power properly, they will be consecrated for seem least able to cope. Since per- so strong that it seemed he was our gain.4 sonal growth is an intended outcome doomed to utter destruction. When he Elder Orson F. Whitney said: “No of these challenges, it should come was almost ready to sink into despair, pain that we suffer, no trial that we as no surprise that the trials can be he exerted himself to call upon God, experience is wasted. . . . All that we very personal—almost laser guided to and at that very moment he was vis- suffer and all that we endure, espe- our particular needs or weaknesses. ited by the Father and the Son.11 Often cially when we endure it patiently, And no one is exempt, especially not investigators face opposition and trib- builds up our characters, purifies our Saints striving to do what’s right. Some ulation as they near baptism. Mothers hearts, expands our souls, and makes obedient Saints may ask, “Why me? know that the challenges of labor us more tender and charitable. . . . It is I’m trying to be good! Why is the Lord precede the miracle of birth. Time 78 nearly impossible to see that the coming blessings far outweigh the pain, humiliation, or heartbreak we may be experiencing at the time. “No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” 13 The Apostle Paul taught, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eter- nal weight of glory.” 14 It is interesting that Paul uses the term “light afflic- tion.” This comes from a person who was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, imprisoned, and who experienced many other trials.15 I doubt many of us would label our afflictions light. Yet in comparison to the blessings and growth we ultimately receive, both in this life and in eternity, our afflictions truly are light. We don’t seek out tests, trials, and tribulations. Our personal journey through life will provide just the right amount for our needs. Many trials are just a natural part of our mortal exis- tence, but they play such an important role in our progress. As the Savior’s mortal ministry came to a close, He experienced the most difficult trial of all time—the incredible suffering in Gethsemane and on Golgotha. This preceded the glorious Resurrection and the promise that all our suffering will someday be done away. His suffering was a pre- after time we see marvelous blessings like an electric shock.” 12 While she requisite to the empty tomb that Easter on the heels of great trials. was confined to bed and at the height morning and to our future immortality When my grandmother was about of her suffering, she obtained and and eternal life. 19 years old, she developed a disease studied pamphlets from The Church Sometimes we want to have growth that caused her to be very ill. She later of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. without challenges and to develop said, “I couldn’t walk. My left foot She was converted and later baptized. strength without any struggle. But was all out of shape after I had been Many times a particular challenge growth cannot come by taking the in bed for several months. The bones helps prepare us for something vitally easy way. We clearly understand that were soft like a sponge, and when important. an athlete who resists rigorous train- I touched my foot to the floor it felt In the midst of problems, it is ing will never become a world-class

May 2011 79 more than conquerors through him that loved us.” 20 I know that God lives and that His Son, Jesus Christ, lives. I also know that through Their help, we can be “more than conquerors” of the trib- ulations we face in this life. We can become like Them. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ NOTES 1. See 1 Peter 1:6–8; Abraham 3:25. 2. See 1 Peter 2:20. 3. See 2 Peter 1:4. 4. See 2 Nephi 2:2. athlete. We must be careful that we their trust in God shall be supported 5. Orson F. Whitney, in Spencer W. Kimball, Faith Precedes the Miracle (1972), 98. don’t resent the very things that help in their trials, and their troubles, and 6. See Isaiah 48:10; 1 Nephi 20:10. us put on the divine nature. their afflictions, and shall be lifted up 7. See Alma 7:11–12. Not one of the trials and tribula- at the last day.” 18 Someday when we 8. Doctrine and Covenants 58:4. 9. See Exodus 14:5–30. tions we face is beyond our limits, get to the other side of the veil, we 10. See 1 Nephi 3–4. because we have access to help from want more than for someone just to 11. See Joseph Smith—History 1:15–17. the Lord. We can do all things through tell us, “Well, you’re done.” Instead, we 12. Amalie Hollenweger Amacher, unpublished 16 history in possession of author. Christ, who strengthens us. want the Lord to say, “Well done, thou 13. Hebrews 12:11. After recovering from serious good and faithful servant.” 19 14. 2 Corinthians 4:17. health challenges, Elder Robert D. I love the words of Paul: 15. See 2 Corinthians 11:23–28. 16. See Philippians 4:13. Hales shared the following in general “Who shall separate us from the 17. Robert D. Hales, “The Covenant of Baptism: conference: “On a few occasions, love of Christ? shall tribulation, or To Be in the Kingdom and of the Kingdom,” I told the Lord that I had surely distress, or persecution, or famine, or ­Liahona, Jan. 2001, 6; ­Ensign, Nov. 2000, 6. 18. Alma 36:3. learned the lessons to be taught and nakedness, or peril, or sword? . . . 19. Matthew 25:21. that it wouldn’t be necessary for me “Nay, in all these things we are 20. Romans 8:35, 37. to endure any more suffering. Such entreaties seemed to be of no avail, Bucharest, Romania for it was made clear to me that this purifying process of testing was to be endured in the Lord’s time and in the Lord’s own way. . . . I . . . learned that I would not be left alone to meet these trials and tribulations but that guardian angels would attend me. There were some that were near angels in the form of doctors, nurses, and most of all my sweet compan- ion, Mary. And on occasion, when the Lord so desired, I was to be comforted with visitations of heav- enly hosts that brought comfort and eternal reassurances in my time of need.” 17 Our Heavenly Father loves us, and we “know that whosoever shall put 80 By Bishop H. David Burton would not let the people go hungry.” 3 Presiding Bishop I was at President Gordon B. Hinckley’s side in Managua, Nicaragua, when he spoke to 1,300 members of the Church who had survived a devastating hurricane that The Sanctifying Work claimed more than 11,000 lives. “As long as the Church has resources,” he said to them, “we will not let you go of Welfare hungry or without clothing or without shelter. We shall do all that we can to assist in the way that the Lord has The work of caring for one another and being “kind to the designated that it should be done.” 4 poor” is a sanctifying work, commanded of the Father. One of the distinguishing character- istics of this inspired gospel-centered endeavor is its emphasis on personal responsibility and self-reliance. President ood morning, brothers and sis- Great Depression. It was during that Marion G. Romney explained: “Many ters. In 1897 a young David O. time, on April 6, 1936, that President programs have been set up by well- GMcKay stood at a door with a Heber J. Grant and his counselors, meaning individuals to aid those who tract in his hand. As a missionary in J. Reuben Clark and David O. McKay, are in need. However, many of these Stirling, Scotland, he had done this announced what would later become programs are designed with the short- many times before. But on that day a known as the welfare program of the sighted objective of ‘helping people,’ very haggard woman opened the door Church. Interestingly, two weeks later as opposed to ‘helping people help and stood before him. She was poorly Elder Melvin J. Ballard was appointed themselves.’” 5 dressed and had sunken cheeks and as its first chairman and Harold B. Lee Self-reliance is a product of prov- unkempt hair. its first managing director. ident living and exercising economic She took the tract Elder McKay This was no ordinary endeavor. self-discipline. From the beginning the offered to her and spoke six words Although the Lord had raised up Church has taught that families—to that he subsequently would never for- remarkable souls to administer it, the extent they can—need to assume get: “Will this buy me any bread?” President J. Reuben Clark made it responsibility for their own temporal This encounter left a lasting clear that “the setting up of the [wel- welfare. Each generation is required to impression on the young missionary. fare] machinery is the result of a reve- learn anew the foundational principles He later wrote: “From that moment lation by the Holy Ghost to President of self-reliance: avoid debt, implement I had a deeper realization that the Grant, that it has been carried on since principles of thrift, prepare for times of Church of Christ should be and is that time by equivalent revelations distress, listen to and follow the words interested in the temporal salvation which have come to the brethren who of the living oracles, develop the dis- of man. I walked away from the door have had it in charge.” 2 cipline to distinguish between needs feeling that that [woman], with . . . The commitment of Church leaders and wants and then live accordingly. bitterness in [her heart] toward man to relieve human suffering was as The purpose, promises, and princi- and God, [was] in no position to certain as it was irrevocable. President ples that reinforce our work of caring receive the message of the gospel. Grant wanted “a system that would for the poor and needy extend far [She was] in need of temporal help, . . . reach out and take care of the beyond the bounds of mortality. This and there was no organization, so far people no matter what the cost.” He sacred work is not only to benefit and as I could learn, in Stirling that could said he would even go so far as to bless those who suffer or are in need. give it to [her].” 1 “close the seminaries, shut down As sons and daughters of God, we A few decades later the world missionary work for a period of time, cannot inherit the full measure of eter- groaned under the burden of the or even close the temples, but they nal life without being fully invested

May 2011 81 family history exemplifies a commit- ment to care for those in need. Many have heard of the Willie and Martin handcart companies and how these faithful pioneers suffered and died as they endured winter cold and debil- itating conditions during their trek west. Robert Taylor Burton, one of my great-great-grandfathers, was one of those whom Brigham Young asked to ride out and rescue those dear, des- perate Saints. in caring for each other while we are bishop is assisted by a ward council Of this time Grandfather wrote in here on earth. It is in the benevolent consisting of priesthood and auxiliary his journal: “Snow deep [and] very practice of sacrifice and giving of leaders, including a devoted Relief cold. . . . So cold that [we] could not ourselves to others that we learn the Society president. They can “fly to the move. . . . Thermometer 11 degrees celestial principles of sacrifice and relief of the stranger; . . . pour in oil below zero [-24°C] . . . ; so cold the consecration.6 and wine to the wounded heart of the people could not travel.” 12 The great King Benjamin taught distressed; . . . [and] dry up the tears Life-saving supplies were dis- that one of the reasons we impart of of the orphan and make the widow’s tributed to the stranded Saints, but our substance to the poor and admin- heart to rejoice.” 10 “in spite of all [the rescuers] could ister to their relief is so that we may The hearts of Church members do many were laid to rest by the retain a remission of our sins from day and leaders throughout the world wayside.” 13 to day and walk guiltless before God.7 are being positively influenced and As the rescued Saints were travers- Since the foundation of the world, guided by the doctrines and divine ing a portion of the trail through Echo the cloth of righteous societies has spirit of loving and caring for their ever been woven from the golden neighbors. St. Catherine, Jamaica threads of charity. We yearn for a One priesthood leader in South peaceful world and for prosperous America was burdened by the hunger communities. We pray for kind and and deprivation of the members of virtuous societies where wickedness his little stake. Unwilling to allow the is forsaken and goodness and right children to suffer in hunger, he found prevail. No matter how many temples an empty plot of land and organized we build, no matter how large our the priesthood to cultivate and plant it. membership grows, no matter how They found an old horse and hooked positively we are perceived in the eyes up a primitive plow and began work- of the world—should we fail in this ing the ground. But before they could great core commandment to “succor finish, tragedy struck and the old the weak, lift up the hands which horse died. hang down, and strengthen the feeble Rather than allow their brothers knees,” 8 or turn our hearts from those and sisters to suffer hunger, the breth- who suffer and mourn, we are under ren of the priesthood strapped the old condemnation and cannot please the plow to their own backs and pulled it Lord 9 and the jubilant hope of our through the unforgiving ground. They hearts will ever be distant. literally took upon themselves the Throughout the world, nearly yoke of the suffering and burdens of 28,000 bishops search after the poor their brothers and sisters.11 to administer to their needs. Each A moment in time from my own 82 Canyon, several wagons pulled off This is the sacred work the Savior NOTES to assist in the arrival of a baby girl. expects from His disciples. It is the 1. Cherished Experiences from the Writings of President David O. McKay, comp. Clare Robert noticed the young mother did work He loved when He walked the Middlemiss (1955), 189. not have enough clothing to keep her earth. It is the work I know we would 2. J. Reuben Clark Jr., “Testimony of Divine newborn infant warm. In spite of the find Him doing were He here among Origin of Welfare Plan,” , 16 Aug. 8, 1951, 15; see also Glen L. Rudd, freezing temperatures, he “took off his us today. Pure Religion (1995), 47. own homespun shirt and gave it to Seventy-five years ago a system 3. Glen L. Rudd, Pure Religion, 34. the mother to [wrap] the baby.” 14 The devoted to the spiritual and tempo- 4. In “President Hinckley Visits Hurricane Mitch Victims and Mid-Atlantic United child was given the name Echo—Echo ral salvation of mankind rose from States,” ­Ensign, Feb. 1999, 74. Squires—as a remembrance of the humble beginnings. Since that time it 5. Marion G. Romney, “The Celestial Nature place and circumstances of her birth. has ennobled and blessed the lives of of Self-Reliance,” ­Liahona, Mar. 2009, 15; ­Ensign, Nov. 1982, 91. In later years Robert was called to tens of millions of people throughout 6. See Doctrine and Covenants 104:15–18; see the Presiding Bishopric of the Church, the world. The prophetic welfare plan also Doctrine and Covenants 105:2–3. 7. See Mosiah 4:26–27. where he served for more than three is not merely an interesting footnote in 8. Doctrine and Covenants 81:5; see also decades. At age 86 Robert Taylor the history of the Church. The prin- Matthew 22:36–40. Burton fell ill. He gathered his family ciples upon which it is based define 9. See Doctrine and Covenants 104:18. 10. Joseph Smith, in History of the Church, to his bedside to give them his final who we are as a people. It is the 4:567–68. blessing. Among his last words was essence of who we are as individual 11. Interview with Harold C. Brown, former this simple but very profound counsel: disciples of our Savior and Exemplar, Welfare Services Department managing 15 director. “Be kind to the poor.” Jesus the Christ. 12. Journal of Robert T. Burton, Church History Brothers and sisters, we honor The work of caring for one another Library, Salt Lake City, Nov. 2–6, 1856. those innovative giants whom the and being “kind to the poor” is a 13. Robert Taylor Burton, in Janet Burton Seegmiller, “Be Kind to the Poor”: The Life Lord raised up to organize and sanctifying work, commanded of the Story of Robert Taylor Burton (1988), 164. administer the institutional outreach Father and divinely designed to bless, 14. Lenore Gunderson, in Jolene S. Allphin, to needy members of His Church. We refine, and exalt His children. May we Tell My Story, Too, tellmystorytoo.com/ art_imagepages/image43.html. honor those who in our day reach out follow the Savior’s counsel to the cer- 15. Robert Taylor Burton, in Seegmiller, “Be in countless and often silent ways to tain lawyer in the parable of the good Kind to the Poor,” 416. “be kind to the poor,” feed the hungry, Samaritan: “Go, and do thou like- 16. See Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “You Are My 17 Hands,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2010, clothe the naked, minister to the sick, wise.” Of this I testify in the name of 68–70, 75. and visit the captive. Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ 17. Luke 10:37.

May 2011 83 By Silvia H. Allred participate jointly today in bringing First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency relief to those in need. Priesthood holders provide essential support for those needing spiritual guidance and help. Inspired home teachers bless lives and provide the blessings The Essence of the gospel to every family unit. In addition, they lend their strength and talents in other ways, such as helping of Discipleship a family in need of home repairs, in helping a family move, or in helping a brother find needed employment. When love becomes the guiding principle in our care for Relief Society presidents visit others, our service to them becomes the gospel in action. homes to assess the needs for a bishop. Inspired visiting teachers watch over and care for sisters and families. They are often the first rom the beginning of time, the special mandate to care for the poor response in times of immediate need. Lord has taught that to become and needy and to administer such Relief Society sisters provide meals, His people we need to be of one resources for the members in his render compassionate service, and F 1 heart and one mind. The Savior also ward. He is assisted in his efforts by give constant support during times explained that the two great com- priesthood quorums, Relief Society, of trial. mandments in the law are “Love the and in particular, home and visiting Church members all over the world Lord thy God with all thy heart, and teachers. have rejoiced in the past and should with all thy soul, and with all thy Relief Society has always been rejoice now at the opportunities we mind” and “love thy neighbour as at the heart of welfare. When the have to serve others. Our combined thyself.” 2 Lastly, soon after the Church Prophet Joseph Smith organized the efforts bring relief to those who are was restored, the Lord commanded Relief Society in 1842, he said to the poor, hungry, suffering, or distressed, the Saints to “visit the poor and the women, “This is the beginning of thereby saving souls. needy and administer to their relief.” 3 better days to the poor and needy.” 4 Every bishop has available to him What is the common theme in all He told the sisters that the purpose of the Lord’s storehouse, which is estab- these commandments? It is that we the society was “relief of the poor, the lished as “faithful members give to must love one another and serve one destitute, the widow and the orphan, the bishop of their time, talents, skills, another. This is, in fact, the essence and for the exercise of all benevolent compassion, materials, and financial of discipleship in the true Church of purposes. . . . They will pour in oil means in caring for the poor and in Jesus Christ. and wine to the wounded heart of the building up the kingdom of God on As we celebrate 75 years of the distressed; they will dry up the tears the earth.” 7 We can all contribute to Church welfare program, we are of the orphan and make the widow’s the Lord’s storehouse when we pay reminded of the purposes of welfare, heart to rejoice.” 5 our fast offerings and make all our which are to help members help He also stated that the society resources available to the bishop to themselves become self-reliant, to “might provoke the brethren to good assist those in need. care for the poor and needy, and to works in looking to the wants of Despite the rapidly changing world, give service. The Church has orga- the poor—searching after objects of welfare principles have not changed nized its resources to assist members charity, and in administering to their with the passing of time because they to provide for the physical, spiritual, wants—to assist by correcting the are divinely inspired, revealed truth. social, and emotional well-being of morals and strengthening the virtues When members of the Church and themselves, their families, and others. of the community.” 6 their families do everything they can The office of bishop carries with it a Men and women of the Church to sustain themselves and still cannot 84 meet basic needs, the Church stands witnessed how heroic Relief Society members. I witnessed it yet again ready to help. Short-term needs are presidents and faithful visiting teachers during my recent visits to Kinshasa in met immediately, and a plan to help went about “doing good” 8 under such the Democratic Republic of Congo, the recipient become self-reliant is grim circumstances. They portrayed Antananarivo in Madagascar, and established. Self-reliance is the ability the scripture in Proverbs 31:20: “She Bulawayo in Zimbabwe. Ward mem- to provide the spiritual and temporal stretcheth out her hand to the poor; bers everywhere, and Relief Society necessities of life for self and family. yea, she reacheth forth her hands to sisters in particular, continue to build As we increase our own level of the needy.” faith, strengthen individuals and fami- self-reliance, we increase our ability Sisters whose families had very lies, and help those in need. to help and serve others the way the little themselves were constantly To think that a humble sister or Savior did. We follow the Savior’s helping those who they thought were brother with a Church calling can go example when we minister to the in greater need. I then more clearly into a home where there is poverty, needy, the sick, and the suffering. understood what the Savior saw when sorrow, sickness, or distress and can When love becomes the guiding prin- He declared in Luke 21:3–4: bring peace, relief, and happiness ciple in our care for others, our service “Of a truth I say unto you, that this is astonishing. No matter where the to them becomes the gospel in action. poor widow hath cast in more than ward or branch is or how big or small It is the gospel in its finest moment. It they all: the group is, every member through- is pure religion. “For all these have of their abun- out the world has that opportunity. It In my various Church assignments, dance cast in unto the offerings of happens every day, and it is happen- I have been humbled by the love and God: but she of her penury hath cast ing somewhere at this very moment. concern bishops and Relief Society in all the living that she had.” Karla is a young mother of two. leaders demonstrate for their flocks. A few years later I witnessed Her husband, Brent, works long While I was serving as a stake Relief the same thing as a stake Relief hours and commutes an hour each Society president in Chile during the Society president in Argentina when way to work. Soon after the birth of early 1980s, the country was experi- hyperinflation hit the country and their second little girl, she related encing a deep recession and the rate the economic collapse that fol- the following experience: “The day of unemployment was 30 percent. I lowed affected many of our faithful after I received the call to serve as a

May 2011 85 counselor in my ward Relief Society, serve me were just the reassurance I pray that the Lord will bless each I began to feel quite overwhelmed. I needed from the Lord that He was of us with a greater sense of mercy, How could I possibly take on the going to help me to fulfill my new charity, and compassion. I plead for responsibility to help care for the calling.” an increase in our desire and ability to women in my ward when I was Heavenly Father loves us and reach out and assist the less fortunate, struggling just to fulfill my role as knows our unique circumstances the distressed, and those who suffer, a wife and mother of a very active and abilities. Although we seek His that their needs may be met, that their two-year-old and a new baby? Just as help daily through prayer, it is usually faith may be strengthened, and that I was dwelling on these feelings, the through another person that He meets their hearts may be filled with grati- two-year-old became sick. I wasn’t our needs. 9 tude and love. quite sure what to do for her and The Lord said, “By this shall all men May the Lord bless each one of us care for the baby at the same time. know that ye are my disciples, if ye as we walk in obedience to His com- Just then, Sister Wasden, who is one have love one to another.” 10 mandments, His gospel, and His light. of my visiting teachers, unexpectedly The pure love of Christ is expressed In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ came to the door. A mother of grown as we give selfless service. Helping NOTES children, she knew just what to do one another is a sanctifying experi- 1. See Moses 7:18. to help. She told me what I needed ence which exalts the receiver and 2. See Matthew 22:36–40. 3. Doctrine and Covenants 44:6. to do while she went to the drug- humbles the giver. It helps us become 4. Joseph Smith, in History of the Church, 4:607. store to get some supplies. Later on true disciples of Christ. 5. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: she arranged for my husband to be The welfare plan has always been Joseph Smith (2007), 452. 6. Teachings: Joseph Smith, 452. picked up at the train station so that the application of eternal principles 7. Providing in the Lord’s Way: A Leader’s he could get home quickly to help of the gospel. It truly is providing in Guide to Welfare (1990), 11. me. Her response to what I believe the Lord’s way. Let us each renew our 8. Acts 10:38; Articles of Faith 1:13. 9. See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: was a prompting from the Holy desire to be part of the Lord’s store- Spencer W. Kimball (2006), 82. Ghost along with her willingness to house in blessing others. 10. John 13:35. 86 By Elder David A. Bednar companionship of the Holy Ghost. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, “The Holy Ghost is a revelator,” and “no man can receive the Holy Ghost without receiving revelations” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: The Spirit of Revelation Joseph Smith [2007], 132). The spirit of revelation is avail- The spirit of revelation is real—and can and does function in able to every person who receives by proper priesthood authority the saving our individual lives and in the Church. ordinances of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost—and who is acting in faith express gratitude for the inspiration characterized by subtle and gradual to fulfill the priesthood injunction to that attended the selection of the discernment of light. “receive the Holy Ghost.” This blessing I hymn that will follow my remarks, From these two ordinary experi- is not restricted to the presiding author- “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, ences with light, we can learn much ities of the Church; rather, it belongs no. 223). I get the hint. about the spirit of revelation. I pray to and should be operative in the life I invite you to consider two experi- the Holy Ghost will inspire and in­ of every man, woman, and child who ences most of us have had with light. struct us as we now focus upon the reaches the age of accountability and The first experience occurred as we spirit of revelation and basic patterns enters into sacred covenants. Sincere entered a dark room and turned on whereby revelation is received. desire and worthiness invite the spirit a light switch. Remember how in an of revelation into our lives. instant a bright flood of illumination The Spirit of Revelation Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery filled the room and caused the dark- Revelation is communication gained valuable experience with the ness to disappear. What previously had from God to His children on the spirit of revelation as they translated been unseen and uncertain became earth and one of the great blessings the Book of Mormon. These brethren clear and recognizable. This experience associated with the gift and constant learned they could receive whatever was characterized by immediate and intense recognition of light. The second experience took place as we watched night turn into morning. Do you recall the slow and almost imperceptible increase in light on the horizon? In contrast to turning on a light in a dark room, the light from the rising sun did not immedi- ately burst forth. Rather, gradually and steadily the intensity of the light increased, and the darkness of night was replaced by the radiance of morning. Eventually, the sun did dawn over the skyline. But the visual evidence of the sun’s impending arrival was apparent hours before the sun actually appeared over the horizon. This experience was

May 2011 87 knowledge was necessary to complete help us to better understand these two receiving revelation “line upon line, their work if they asked in faith, with basic patterns of revelation. precept upon precept.” For example, an honest heart, believing they would A light turned on in a dark room the fundamental truths of the restored receive. And over time they increas- is like receiving a message from God gospel were not delivered to the ingly understood the spirit of revelation quickly, completely, and all at once. Prophet Joseph Smith all at once in typically functions as thoughts and Many of us have experienced this the Sacred Grove. These priceless trea- feelings that come into our minds and pattern of revelation as we have been sures were revealed as circumstances hearts by the power of the Holy Ghost. given answers to sincere prayers or warranted and as the timing was right. (See D&C 8:1–2; 100:5–8.) As the Lord been provided with needed direction President Joseph F. Smith ex­ instructed them: “Now, behold, this is or protection, according to God’s plained how this pattern of revelation the spirit of revelation; behold, this is will and timing. Descriptions of such occurred in his life: “As a boy . . . I the spirit by which Moses brought the immediate and intense manifestations would frequently . . . ask the Lord to children of Israel through the Red Sea are found in the scriptures, recounted show me some marvelous thing, in on dry ground. Therefore this is thy in Church history, and evidenced in order that I might receive a testimony. gift; apply unto it” (D&C 8:3–4). our own lives. Indeed, these mighty But the Lord withheld marvels from I emphasize the phrase “apply unto miracles do occur. However, this me, and showed me the truth, line it” in relation to the spirit of revelation. pattern of revelation tends to be more upon line . . . , until He made me to In the scriptures, the influence of the rare than common. know the truth from the crown of my Holy Ghost frequently is described The gradual increase of light radiat- head to the soles of my feet, and until as “a still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12; ing from the rising sun is like receiv- doubt and fear had been absolutely 1 Nephi 17:45; see also 3 Nephi 11:3) ing a message from God “line upon purged from me. He did not have to and a “voice of perfect mildness” line, precept upon precept” (2 Nephi send an angel from the heavens to do (Helaman 5:30). Because the Spirit 28:30). Most frequently, revelation this, nor did He have to speak with whispers to us gently and delicately, it comes in small increments over time the trump of an archangel. By the is easy to understand why we should and is granted according to our desire, whisperings of the still small voice shun inappropriate media, pornogra- worthiness, and preparation. Such of the spirit of the living God, He phy, and harmful, addictive substances communications from Heavenly Father gave to me the testimony I possess. and behaviors. These tools of the gradually and gently “distil upon [our And by this principle and power He adversary can impair and eventually souls] as the dews from heaven” (D&C will give to all the children of men a destroy our capacity to recognize 121:45). This pattern of revelation knowledge of the truth that will stay and respond to the subtle messages tends to be more common than rare with them, and it will make them to from God delivered by the power of and is evident in the experiences of know the truth, as God knows it, and His Spirit. Each of us should consider Nephi as he tried several different to do the will of the Father as Christ seriously and ponder prayerfully how approaches before successfully obtain- does it. And no amount of marvelous we can reject the devil’s enticements ing the plates of brass from Laban manifestations will ever accomplish and righteously “apply unto it,” even (see 1 Nephi 3–4). Ultimately, he was this” (in Conference Report, Apr. the spirit of revelation, in our personal led by the Spirit to Jerusalem, “not 1900, 40–41). lives and families. knowing beforehand the things which We as members of the Church tend [he] should do” (1 Nephi 4:6). And he to emphasize marvelous and dramatic Patterns of Revelation did not learn how to build a ship of spiritual manifestations so much that Revelations are conveyed in a vari- curious workmanship all at one time; we may fail to appreciate and may ety of ways, including, for example, rather, Nephi was shown by the Lord even overlook the customary pattern dreams, visions, conversations with “from time to time after what manner by which the Holy Ghost accom- heavenly messengers, and inspira- [he] should work the timbers of the plishes His work. The very “simple- tion. Some revelations are received ship” (1 Nephi 18:1). ness of the way” (1 Nephi 17:41) of immediately and intensely; some are Both the history of the Church and receiving small and incremental spiri- recognized gradually and subtly. The our personal lives are replete with tual impressions that over time and in two experiences with light I described examples of the Lord’s pattern for totality constitute a desired answer or 88 that is cloudy or foggy. Because of the overcast conditions, perceiving the light is more difficult, and identifying the precise moment when the sun rises over the horizon is not possible. But on such a morning we nonethe- less have sufficient light to recognize a new day and to conduct our affairs. In a similar way, we many times receive revelation without recognizing precisely how or when we are receiv- ing revelation. An important episode from Church history illustrates this principle. In the spring of 1829, Oliver Cowdery was a schoolteacher in Palmyra, New York. As he learned about Joseph Smith and the work of translating the Book of Mormon, Oliver felt impressed to offer his assistance to the young prophet. Consequently, he traveled to Harmony, Pennsylvania, and became Joseph’s scribe. The timing of his arrival and the help he provided were vital to the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. The Savior subsequently revealed to Oliver that as often as he had the direction we need may cause us to As you do so, you “cannot go amiss” prayed for guidance, he had received look “beyond the mark” ( Jacob 4:14). (D&C 80:3). direction from the Spirit of the Lord. “If I have talked with many indi- President Joseph F. Smith counseled: it had not been so,” the Lord declared, viduals who question the strength “Show me Latter-day Saints who have “thou wouldst not have come to the of their personal testimony and to feed upon miracles, signs and visions place where thou art at this time. underestimate their spiritual capacity in order to keep them steadfast in the Behold, thou knowest that thou hast because they do not receive frequent, Church, and I will show you mem- inquired of me and I did enlighten thy miraculous, or strong impressions. bers . . . who are not in good standing mind; and now I tell thee these things Perhaps as we consider the experi- before God, and who are walking in that thou mayest know that thou hast ences of Joseph in the Sacred Grove, slippery paths. It is not by marvelous been enlightened by the Spirit of of Saul on the road to Damascus, manifestations unto us that we shall truth” (D&C 6:14–15). and of Alma the Younger, we come be established in the truth, but it is by Thus, Oliver received a revelation to believe something is wrong with humility and faithful obedience to the through the Prophet Joseph Smith or lacking in us if we fall short in commandments and laws of God” (in informing him that he had been our lives of these well-known and Conference Report, Apr. 1900, 40). receiving revelation. Apparently Oliver spiritually striking examples. If you Another common experience with had not recognized how and when have had similar thoughts or doubts, light helps us learn an additional truth he had been receiving direction from please know that you are quite nor- about the “line upon line, precept God and needed this instruction to mal. Just keep pressing forward obe- upon precept” pattern of revelation. increase his understanding about the diently and with faith in the Savior. Sometimes the sun rises on a morning spirit of revelation. In essence, Oliver

May 2011 89 had been walking in the light as the sun was rising on a cloudy morning. By President Thomas S. Monson In many of the uncertainties and challenges we encounter in our lives, God requires us to do our best, to act and not be acted upon (see 2 Nephi 2:26), and to trust in Him. We may The Holy Temple—a not see angels, hear heavenly voices, or receive overwhelming spiritual impressions. We frequently may press Beacon to the World forward hoping and praying—but without absolute assurance—that we are acting in accordance with God’s The all-important and crowning blessings of membership will. But as we honor our covenants in the Church are those blessings which we receive in and keep the commandments, as we the temples of God. strive ever more consistently to do good and to become better, we can walk with the confidence that God will guide our steps. And we can y beloved brothers and sisters, help of the Relief Society and the speak with the assurance that God I extend my love and greet- priesthood quorums. will inspire our utterances. This is in Mings to each of you and pray I declare that the welfare program part the meaning of the scripture that that our Heavenly Father will guide of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- declares, “Then shall thy confidence my thoughts and inspire my words as day Saints is inspired of Almighty God. wax strong in the presence of God” I speak to you today. Now, my brothers and sisters, this (D&C 121:45). May I begin by making a comment conference marks three years since As you appropriately seek for and or two concerning the fine messages I was sustained as President of the apply unto the spirit of revelation, I we have heard this morning from Sister Church. Of course they have been promise you will “walk in the light of Allred and Bishop Burton and others busy years, filled with many chal- the Lord” (Isaiah 2:5; 2 Nephi 12:5). pertaining to the Church’s welfare lenges but also with countless bless- Sometimes the spirit of revelation will program. As indicated, this year marks ings. The opportunity I have had to operate immediately and intensely, the 75th anniversary of this inspired dedicate and rededicate temples has other times subtly and gradually, program, which has blessed the lives been among the most enjoyable and and often so delicately you may not of so many. It was my privilege to sacred of these blessings, and it is even consciously recognize it. But know personally some of those who concerning the temple that I wish to regardless of the pattern whereby this pioneered this great endeavor—men speak to you today. blessing is received, the light it pro- of compassion and foresight. During the October general con- vides will illuminate and enlarge your As both Bishop Burton and Sister ference in 1902, Church President soul, enlighten your understanding Allred and others mentioned, the Joseph F. Smith expressed in his (see Alma 5:7; 32:28), and direct and bishop of the ward is given the opening address the hope that one protect you and your family. responsibility to care for those in need day we would “have temples built in I declare my apostolic witness that who reside within the boundaries of the various parts of the [world] where the Father and the Son live. The spirit his ward. Such was my privilege when they are needed for the convenience of revelation is real—and can and I presided as a very young bishop in of the people.” 1 does function in our individual lives Salt Lake City over a ward of 1,080 During the first 150 years following and in The Church of Jesus Christ members, including 84 widows. There the organization of the Church, from of Latter-day Saints. I testify of these were many who needed assistance. 1830 to 1980, 21 temples were built, truths in the sacred name of the Lord How grateful I was for the welfare including the temples in Kirtland, Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ program of the Church and for the Ohio, and Nauvoo, Illinois. Contrast 90 that with the 30 years since 1980, dur- ing which 115 temples were built and dedicated. With the announcement yesterday of 3 new temples, there are additionally 26 temples either under construction or in preconstruction stages. These numbers will continue to grow. The goal President Joseph F. Smith hoped for in 1902 is becoming a reality. Our desire is to make the temple as accessible as possible to our members. One of the temples currently under construction is in Manaus, Brazil. Many years ago I read of a group of over a hundred members who left Manaus, located in the heart of the Amazon rain forest, to travel to what was then the closest temple, located in São Paulo, Brazil—nearly 2,500 miles (4,000 km) from Manaus. Those faithful Saints journeyed by boat for four days on the Amazon River and its tributaries. After completing this journey by water, they boarded buses for another three days of travel—over bumpy roads, with very little to eat, and with nowhere comfortable to sleep. After seven days and nights, they arrived at the temple in São Paulo, where ordinances eternal in only in temples of God never fail to miles (4,000 km) to the southwest, nature were performed. Of course touch my heart and bring to me a accessible only by expensive airplane their return journey was just as dif- renewed sense of thankfulness for travel. The large Mou Tham family, ficult. However, they had received temples. which eked out a meager living on a the ordinances and blessings of the May I share with you the account small plantation, had no money for temple, and although their purses of Tihi and Tararaina Mou Tham and airplane fare, nor was there any oppor- were empty, they themselves were their 10 children. The entire family tunity for employment on their Pacific filled with the spirit of the temple and except for one daughter joined the island. So Brother Mou Tham and his with gratitude for the blessings they Church in the early 1960s, when mis- son Gérard made the difficult decision had received. 2 Now, many years later, sionaries came to their island, located to travel 3,000 miles (4,800 km) to our members in Manaus are rejoicing about 100 miles (160 km) south of work in New Caledonia, where another as they watch their own temple take Tahiti. Soon they began to desire the son was already employed. shape on the banks of the Rio Negro. blessings of an eternal family sealing The three Mou Tham men labored Temples bring joy to our faithful mem- in the temple. for four years. Brother Mou Tham bers wherever they are built. At that time the nearest temple to alone returned home only once Reports of the sacrifices made in the Mou Tham family was the Hamilton during that time, for the marriage of a order to receive the blessings found New Zealand Temple, more than 2,500 daughter.

May 2011 91 that no sacrifice is too great, no price too heavy, no struggle too difficult in order to receive those blessings. There are never too many miles to travel, too many obstacles to overcome, or too much discomfort to endure. They understand that the saving ordinances received in the temple that permit us to someday return to our Heavenly Father in an eternal family relationship and to be endowed with blessings and power from on high are worth every sacrifice and every effort. After four years, Brother Mou which we passed through to accom- Today most of us do not have to Tham and his sons had saved enough plish it.” 4 And then, after all that had suffer great hardships in order to money to take the family to the New been painstakingly completed, the attend the temple. Eighty-five percent Zealand Temple. All who were mem- Saints were forced to leave Ohio and of the membership of the Church now bers went except for one daughter, their beloved temple. They eventu- live within 200 miles (320 km) of a who was expecting a baby. They were ally found refuge—although it would temple, and for a great many of us, sealed for time and eternity, an inde- be temporary—on the banks of that distance is much shorter. scribable and joyful experience. the Mississippi River in the state of If you have been to the temple Brother Mou Tham returned from Illinois. They named their settlement for yourselves and if you live within the temple directly to New Caledonia, Nauvoo, and willing to give their all relatively close proximity to a temple, where he worked for two more years once again and with their faith intact, your sacrifice could be setting aside to pay for the passage of the one they erected another temple to their the time in your busy lives to visit the daughter who had not been at the God. Persecutions raged, however, temple regularly. There is much to be temple with them—a married daugh- and with the Nauvoo Temple barely done in our temples in behalf of those ter and her child and husband. completed, they were driven from who wait beyond the veil. As we do the In their later years Brother and their homes once again, seeking ref- Sister Mou Tham desired to serve in uge in a desert. the temple. By that time the Papeete The struggle and the sacrifice Tahiti Temple had been constructed began once again as they labored for and dedicated, and they served four 40 years to erect the Salt Lake Temple, missions there. 3 which stands majestically on the block My brothers and sisters, temples are just south of those of us who are here more than stone and mortar. They are today in the Conference Center. filled with faith and fasting. They are Some degree of sacrifice has ever built of trials and testimonies. They are been associated with temple building sanctified by sacrifice and service. and with temple attendance. Countless The first temple to be built in are those who have labored and strug- this dispensation was the temple at gled in order to obtain for themselves Kirtland, Ohio. The Saints at the time and for their families the blessings were impoverished, and yet the Lord which are found in the temples of God. had commanded that a temple be Why are so many willing to give built, so build it they did. Wrote Elder so much in order to receive the Heber C. Kimball of the experience, blessings of the temple? Those who “The Lord only knows the scenes understand the eternal blessings of poverty, tribulation and distress which come from the temple know 92 work for them, we will know that we have accomplished what they cannot do for themselves. President Joseph F. Smith, in a mighty declaration, stated, “Through our efforts in their behalf their chains of bondage will fall from them, and the darkness surrounding them will clear away, that light may shine upon them and they shall hear in the spirit world of the work that has been done for them by their children here, and will rejoice with you in your performance of these duties.” 5 My brothers and sisters, those of you who already go to the make within, we will be more able the work is ours to do. temple regularly to perform baptisms to bear every trial and to overcome In my own family, some of our most for the dead, arising in the very early each temptation. In this sacred sanc- sacred and treasured experiences have hours of the morning so you can tuary we will find peace; we will be occurred when we have joined together participate in such baptisms before renewed and fortified. in the temple to perform sealing ordi- school begins. I can think of no better Now, my brothers and sisters, may nances for our deceased ancestors. way to start a day. I mention one more temple before I If you have not yet been to the To you parents of young children, close. In the not-too-distant future as temple or if you have been but cur- may I share with you some sage new temples take shape around the rently do not qualify for a recommend, advice from President Spencer W. world, one will rise in a city which there is no more important goal for you Kimball. Said he: “It would be a fine came into being over 2,500 years ago. to work toward than being worthy to thing if . . . parents would have in I speak of the temple which is now go to the temple. Your sacrifice may be every bedroom in their house a pic- being built in Rome, . bringing your life into compliance with ture of the temple so [their children] Every temple is a house of God, what is required to receive a recom- from the time [they are] infant[s] could filling the same functions and with mend, perhaps by forsaking long-held look at the picture every day [until] it identical blessings and ordinances. habits which disqualify you. It may be becomes a part of [their lives]. When The , uniquely, is having the faith and the discipline to [they reach] the age that [they need] being built in one of the most historic pay your tithing. Whatever it is, qualify to make [the] very important decision locations in the world, a city where to enter the temple of God. Secure a [concerning going to the temple], it the ancient Apostles Peter and Paul temple recommend and regard it as a will have already been made.” 6 preached the gospel of Christ and precious possession, for such it is. Our children sing in Primary: where each was martyred. Until you have entered the house of Last October, as we gathered on the Lord and have received all the bless- I love to see the temple. a lovely pastoral site in the northeast ings which await you there, you have I’ll go inside someday. corner of Rome, it was my opportunity not obtained everything the Church has I’ll cov’nant with my Father; to offer a prayer of dedication as we to offer. The all-important and crowning I’ll promise to obey. 7 prepared to break the ground. I felt blessings of membership in the Church impressed to call upon Italian senator are those blessings which we receive in I plead with you to teach your chil- Lucio Malan and Rome’s vice-mayor the temples of God. dren of the temple’s importance. Giuseppe Ciardi to be among the first Now, my young friends who are The world can be a challenging to turn a shovelful of earth. Each had in your teenage years, always have and difficult place in which to live. been a part of the decision to allow us the temple in your sights. Do nothing We are often surrounded by that to build a temple in their city. which will keep you from entering its which would drag us down. As you The day was overcast but warm, doors and partaking of the sacred and and I go to the holy houses of God, and although rain threatened, not eternal blessings there. I commend as we remember the covenants we more than a drop or two fell. As the

May 2011 93 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION | April 3, 2011

magnificent choir sang in Italian the beautiful strains of “The Spirit of God,” one felt as though heaven and earth By Elder Richard G. Scott were joined in a glorious hymn of Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles praise and gratitude to Almighty God. Tears could not be restrained. In a coming day, the faithful in this, the Eternal City, will receive ordinances eternal in nature in a holy The Eternal Blessings house of God. I express my undying gratitude to my Heavenly Father for the temple of Marriage now being built in Rome and for all of our temples, wherever they are. Each one stands as a beacon to the world, an The temple sealing has greater meaning as life unfolds. expression of our testimony that God, It will help you draw ever closer together and find greater our Eternal Father, lives, that He desires joy and fulfillment. to bless us and, indeed, to bless His sons and daughters of all generations. Each of our temples is an expression of our testimony that life beyond the hat beautiful message by this Two of the vital pillars that sustain grave is as real and as certain as is our magnificent choir describes, I Father in Heaven’s plan of happiness life here on earth. I so testify. Tthink, the pattern of life for so are marriage and the family. Their lofty My beloved brothers and sisters, may many of us: “trying to be like Jesus.” significance is underscored by Satan’s we make whatever sacrifices are nec- On July 16, 1953, my beloved relentless efforts to splinter the family essary to attend the temple and to have Jeanene and I knelt as a young couple and to undermine the significance the spirit of the temple in our hearts at an altar in the . of temple ordinances, which bind and in our homes. May we follow in the President Lewis R. Anderson exercised the family together for eternity. The footsteps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the sealing authority and pronounced temple sealing has greater meaning as Christ, who made the ultimate sacrifice us husband and wife, wedded for time life unfolds. It will help you draw ever for us, that we might have eternal life and for all eternity. I have no power to closer together and find greater joy and exaltation in our Heavenly Father’s describe the peace and serenity that and fulfillment in mortality. kingdom. This is my sincere prayer, and come from the assurance that as I con- Once I learned an important lesson I offer it in the name of our Savior, Jesus tinue to live worthily, I will be able to from my wife. I traveled extensively Christ the Lord, amen. ◼ be with my beloved Jeanene and our in my profession. I had been gone NOTES children forever because of that sacred almost two weeks and returned 1. Joseph F. Smith, in Conference Report, Oct. ordinance performed with the proper home one Saturday morning. I had 1902, 3. 2. See Vilson Felipe Santiago and Linda priesthood authority in the house of four hours before I needed to attend Ritchie Archibald, “From Amazon Basin to the Lord. another meeting. I noticed that our Temple,” Church News, Mar. 13, 1993, 6. Our seven children are bound to little washing machine had broken 3. See C. Jay Larson, “Temple Moments: Impossible Desire,” Church News, Mar. 16, us by the sacred ordinances of the down and my wife was washing the 1996, 16. temple. My precious wife, Jeanene, clothes by hand. I began to fix the 4. Heber C. Kimball, in Orson F. Whitney, Life and two of our children are beyond machine. of Heber C. Kimball (1945), 67. 5. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: the veil. They provide a power- Jeanene came by and said, “Rich, Joseph F. Smith (1998), 247. ful motivation for each remaining what are you doing?” 6. The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. member of our family to live so that I said, “I’m repairing the washing Edward L. Kimball (1982), 301. 7. Janice Kapp Perry, “I Love to See the together we will receive all of the eter- machine so you don’t have to do this Temple,” Children’s Songbook, 95. nal blessings promised in the temple. by hand.” 94 She said, “No. Go play with the children.” I said, “I can play with the children anytime. I want to help you.” Then she said, “Richard, please go play with the children.” When she spoke to me that author- itatively, I obeyed. I had a marvelous time with our children. We chased each other around and rolled in the fall leaves. Later I went to my meeting. I probably would have forgotten that experience were it not for the lesson that she wanted me to learn. The next morning about 4:00 a.m., I was awakened as I felt two little arms around my neck, a kiss on the cheek, and these words whispered in my ear, which I will never forget: “Dad, I love you. You are my best friend.” If you are having that kind of expe- rience in your family, you are having one of the supernal joys of life. If you are a young man of appro- priate age and are not married, don’t waste time in idle pursuits. Get on with life and focus on getting married. Don’t just coast through this period of life. Young men, serve a worthy mis- sion. Then make your highest priority finding a worthy, eternal companion. When you find you are developing an interest in a young woman, show her that you are an exceptional person that she would find interesting to If you are married, are you faith- Do you tell your wife often how very know better. Take her to places that ful to your spouse mentally as well much you love her? It will bring her are worthwhile. Show some ingenu- as physically? Are you loyal to your great happiness. I’ve heard men tell ity. If you want to have a wonderful marriage covenants by never engaging me when I say that, “Oh, she knows.” wife, you need to have her see you in conversation with another person You need to tell her. A woman grows as a wonderful man and prospective that you wouldn’t want your spouse to and is greatly blessed by that reassur- husband. overhear? Are you kind and support- ance. Express gratitude for what your If you have found someone, you ive of your spouse and children? spouse does for you. Express that can form an extraordinarily wonderful Brethren, do you lead out in family love and gratitude often. That will courtship and marriage and be very, activities such as scripture study, fam- make life far richer and more pleas- very happy eternally by staying within ily prayer, and family home evening, ant and purposeful. Don’t withhold the bounds of worthiness the Lord has or does your wife fill in the gap your those natural expressions of love. established. lack of attention leaves in the home? And it works a lot better if you are

May 2011 95 instincts to help you sense your child’s special talents and unique capacities. With your husband you can nurture, strengthen, and cause those traits to flower. It is so rewarding to be married. Marriage is wonderful. In time you begin to think alike and have the same ideas and impressions. You have times when you are extremely happy, times of testing, and times of trial, but the Lord guides you through all of those holding her close while you tell her. we shared with each other. I noted growth experiences together. I learned from my wife the impor- that she had carefully pasted every One night our little son Richard, tance of expressions of love. Early one of those circles on a piece of who had a heart problem, awoke cry- in our marriage, often I would open paper. She not only kept my notes ing. The two of us heard it. Normally my scriptures to give a message in a to her, but she protected them with my wife always got up to take care of meeting, and I would find an affec- plastic coverings as if they were a a crying baby, but this time I said, “I’ll tionate, supportive note Jeanene had valuable treasure. There is only one take care of him.” slipped into the pages. Sometimes that she didn’t put with the others. It Because of his problem, when he they were so tender that I could is still behind the glass in our kitchen began to cry, his little heart would hardly talk. Those precious notes from clock. It reads, “Jeanene, it is time to pound very rapidly. He would throw a loving wife were and continue to tell you I love you.” It remains there up and soil the bed clothing. That be a priceless treasure of comfort and and reminds me of that exceptional night I held him very close to try to inspiration. daughter of Father in Heaven. calm his racing heart and stop his I began to do the same thing with As I have thought back over our life crying as I changed his clothes and her, not realizing how much it truly together, I realize how blessed we’ve put on new bedsheets. I held him meant to her. I remember one year been. We have not had arguments in until he went to sleep. I didn’t know we didn’t have the resources for me our home or unkind words between then that just a few months later to give her a valentine, so I decided to us. Now I realize that blessing came he would pass away. I will always paint a watercolor on the front of the because of her. It resulted from her remember holding him in my arms in refrigerator. I did the best I could; only willingness to give, to share, and to the middle of that night. I made one mistake. It was enamel never think of herself. In our later life I remember well the day he passed paint, not watercolor. She never let me together, I tried to emulate her exam- away. As Jeanene and I drove from the try to remove that permanent paint ple. I suggest that as husband and hospital, we pulled over to the side from the refrigerator. wife you do the same in your home. of the road. I held her in my arms. I remember one day I took some Pure love is an incomparable, Each of us cried some, but we realized of those little round paper circles that potent power for good. Righteous love that we would have him beyond the form when you punch holes in paper, is the foundation of a successful mar- veil because of the covenants we had and I wrote on them the numbers 1 to riage. It is the primary cause of con- made in the temple. That made his 100. I turned each over and wrote her tented, well-developed children. Who loss somewhat easier to accept. a message, one word on each circle. can justly measure the righteous influ- Jeanene’s kindness taught me Then I scooped them up and put ence of a mother’s love? What endur- so many valuable things. I was so them in an envelope. I thought she ing fruits result from the seeds of truth immature, and she was so disciplined would get a good laugh. that a mother carefully plants and and so spiritual. Marriage provides When she passed away, I found lovingly cultivates in the fertile soil of an ideal setting for overcoming any in her private things how much she a child’s trusting mind and heart? As tendency to be selfish or self-centered. appreciated the simple messages that a mother you have been given divine I think one of the reasons that we 96 are counseled to get married early in By Elder D. Todd Christofferson life is to avoid developing inappro- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles priate character traits that are hard to change. I feel sorry for any man who hasn’t yet made the choice to seek an eternal companion, and my heart weeps for “As Many as I Love, the sisters who haven’t had the oppor- tunity to marry. Some of you may feel lonely and unappreciated and cannot I Rebuke and Chasten” see how it will be possible for you to have the blessings of marriage and children or your own family. All things The very experience of enduring chastening can refine us and are possible to the Lord, and He keeps prepare us for greater spiritual privileges. the promises He inspires His proph- ets to declare. Eternity is a long time. Have faith in those promises and live to be worthy of them so that in His ur Heavenly Father is a God of the gospel are not a list of deposits time the Lord can make them come high expectations. His expec- required to be made in some heavenly true in your life. With certainty, you Otations for us are expressed by account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is will receive every promised blessing His Son, Jesus Christ, in these words: a plan that shows us how to become for which you are worthy. “I would that ye should be perfect what our Heavenly Father desires us Please pardon me for speaking even as I, or your Father who is in to become.” 1 of my precious wife, Jeanene, but heaven is perfect” (3 Nephi 12:48). Sadly, much of modern Christianity we are an eternal family. She was He proposes to make us holy so does not acknowledge that God always joyously happy, and much of that we may “abide a celestial glory” makes any real demands on those it came from service to others. Even (D&C 88:22) and “dwell in his pres- who believe in Him, seeing Him while very ill, in her morning prayer ence” (Moses 6:57). He knows what is rather as a butler “who meets their she would ask her Father in Heaven required, and so, to make our transfor- needs when summoned” or a ther- to lead her to someone she could mation possible, He provides His com- apist whose role is to help people help. That sincere supplication was mandments and covenants, the gift of “feel good about themselves.” 2 It is answered time and again. The bur- the Holy Ghost, and most important, a religious outlook that “makes no dens of many were eased; their lives the Atonement and Resurrection of pretense at changing lives.” 3 “By were brightened. She was blessed His Beloved Son. contrast,” as one author declares, “the continually for being an instrument In all of this, God’s purpose is God portrayed in both the Hebrew directed by the Lord. that we, His children, may be able to and Christian Scriptures asks, not I know what it is to love a daughter experience ultimate joy, to be with just for commitment, but for our very of Father in Heaven who with grace Him eternally, and to become even as lives. The God of the Bible traffics and devotion lived the full feminine He is. Some years ago Elder Dallin H. in life and death, not niceness, and splendor of her righteous woman- Oaks explained: “The Final Judgment calls for sacrificial love, not benign hood. I am confident that when, in is not just an evaluation of a sum whatever-ism.” 4 our future, I see her again beyond the total of good and evil acts—what we I would like to speak of one veil, we will recognize that we have have done. It is an acknowledgment particular attitude and practice we become even more deeply in love. We of the final effect of our acts and need to adopt if we are to meet our will appreciate each other even more, thoughts—what we have become. It Heavenly Father’s high expectations. having spent this time separated by is not enough for anyone just to go It is this: willingly to accept and even the veil. In the name of Jesus Christ, through the motions. The command- seek correction. Correction is vital if amen. ◼ ments, ordinances, and covenants of we would conform our lives “unto a

May 2011 97 perfect man, [that is,] unto the mea- sure of the stature of the fulness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13). Paul said of divine correction or chastening, “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth” (Hebrews 12:6). Though it is often difficult to endure, truly we ought to rejoice that God considers us worth the time and trouble to correct. enduring chastening can refine us and way for us. President Hugh B. Brown, Divine chastening has at least three prepare us for greater spiritual privi- formerly a member of the Twelve and purposes: (1) to persuade us to repent, leges. Said the Lord, “My people must a counselor in the First Presidency, (2) to refine and sanctify us, and (3) at be tried in all things, that they may be provided a personal experience. He times to redirect our course in life to prepared to receive the glory that I told of purchasing a rundown farm in what God knows is a better path. have for them, even the glory of Zion; Canada many years ago. As he went Consider first of all repentance, the and he that will not bear chastisement about cleaning up and repairing his necessary condition for forgiveness is not worthy of my kingdom” (D&C property, he came across a currant and cleansing. The Lord declared, “As 136:31). In another place He said, “For bush that had grown over six feet many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: all those who will not endure chasten- (1.8 m) high and was yielding no be zealous therefore, and repent” ing, but deny me, cannot be sancti- berries, so he pruned it back drasti- (Revelation 3:19). Again He said, “And fied” (D&C 101:5; see also Hebrews cally, leaving only small stumps. Then my people must needs be chastened 12:10). As Elder Paul V. Johnson said he saw a drop like a tear on the top until they learn obedience, if it must this morning, we should take care not of each of these little stumps, as if the needs be, by the things which they to resent the very things that help us currant bush were crying, and thought suffer” (D&C 105:6; see also D&C put on the divine nature. he heard it say: 1:27). In a latter-day revelation, the The followers of Alma established “How could you do this to me? I Lord commanded four senior Church a Zion community in Helam but then was making such wonderful growth. leaders to repent (as He might com- were brought into bondage. They did . . . And now you have cut me down. mand many of us) for not adequately not deserve their suffering—quite the Every plant in the garden will look teaching their children “according contrary—but the record says: down on me. . . . How could you do to the commandments” and for not “Nevertheless the Lord seeth fit to this to me? I thought you were the being “more diligent and concerned chasten his people; yea, he trieth their gardener here.” at home” (see D&C 93:41–50). The patience and their faith. President Brown replied, “Look, brother of Jared in the Book of “Nevertheless—whosoever putteth little currant bush, I am the gardener Mormon repented when the Lord his trust in him the same shall be lifted here, and I know what I want you to stood in a cloud and talked with him up at the last day. Yea, and thus it was be. I didn’t intend you to be a fruit “for the space of three hours . . . and with this people” (Mosiah 23:21–22). tree or a shade tree. I want you to be a chastened him because he remem- The Lord strengthened them and currant bush, and someday, little cur- bered not to call upon the name of the lightened their burdens to the point rant bush, when you are laden with Lord” (Ether 2:14). Because he so will- they could hardly feel them upon their fruit, you are going to say, ‘Thank you, ingly responded to this severe rebuke, backs and then in due course delivered Mr. Gardener, for loving me enough to the brother of Jared was later given them (see Mosiah 24:8–22). Their faith cut me down.’” the privilege of seeing and being was immeasurably strengthened by Years later, President Brown was instructed by the premortal Redeemer their experience, and ever after they a field officer in the Canadian Army (see Ether 3:6–20). The fruit of God’s enjoyed a special bond with the Lord. serving in England. When a supe- chastisement is repentance leading to God uses another form of chas- rior officer became a battle casualty, righteousness (see Hebrews 12:11). tening or correction to guide us to a President Brown was in line to be In addition to stimulating our future we do not or cannot now envi- promoted to general, and he was repentance, the very experience of sion but which He knows is the better summoned to London. But even 98 though he was fully qualified for the promotion, it was denied him because he was a Mormon. The commanding general said in essence, “You deserve the appointment, but I cannot give it to you.” What President Brown had spent 10 years hoping, praying, and preparing for slipped through his fingers in that moment because of blatant discrimination. Continuing his story, President Brown remembered: “I got on the train and started back . . . with a broken heart, with bitter- ness in my soul. . . . When I got to my tent, . . . I threw my cap on the cot. I clenched my fists, and I shook them at heaven. I said, ‘How could you do this to me, God? I have done everything I could do to measure up. There is nothing that I could have done—that I should have done—that I haven’t done. How could you do this to me?’ I was as bitter as gall. “And then I heard a voice, and I recognized the tone of this voice. It was my own voice, and the voice said, ‘I am the gardener here. I know what I want you to do.’ The bitterness went out of my soul, and I fell on my knees by the cot to ask forgiveness for my ungratefulness. . . . “. . . And now, almost 50 years later, I look up to [God] and say, ‘Thank you, Mr. Gardener, for cutting me down, for come in the course of our prayers as perfecting of the saints, for the work loving me enough to hurt me.’” 5 God speaks to our mind and heart of the ministry, for the edifying of God knew what Hugh B. Brown through the Holy Ghost (see D&C 8:2). the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). was to become and what was needed It may come in the form of prayers that Perhaps some of the things said in for that to happen, and He redirected are answered no or differently than we this conference have come to you as his course to prepare him for the holy had expected. Chastening may come a call to repentance or change, which apostleship. as we study the scriptures and are if heeded will lift you to a higher If we sincerely desire and strive to reminded of deficiencies, disobedience, place. We can help one another as measure up to the high expectations or simply matters neglected. fellow Church members; it is one of of our Heavenly Father, He will ensure Correction can come through the primary reasons that the Savior that we receive all the help we need, others, especially those who are God- established a church. Even when we whether it be comforting, strengthen- inspired to promote our happiness. encounter mean-spirited criticism from ing, or chastening. If we are open to it, Apostles, prophets, patriarchs, bish- persons who have little regard or love needed correction will come in many ops, and others have been put into the for us, it can be helpful to exercise forms and from many sources. It may Church today, just as anciently, “for the enough meekness to weigh it and sift

May 2011 99 out anything that might benefit us. increase of love toward him whom is a diligent, devoted effort on our part Correction, hopefully gentle, thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee that calls forth this empowering and can come from one’s spouse. Elder to be his enemy” (D&C 121:43). enabling grace, an effort that certainly Richard G. Scott, who just addressed Remember that if we resist correc- includes submission to God’s chas- us, remembers a time early in his mar- tion, others may discontinue offering tening hand and sincere, unqualified riage when his wife, Jeanene, coun- it altogether, despite their love for repentance. Let us pray for His love- seled him to look directly at people us. If we repeatedly fail to act on the inspired correction. when he spoke to them. “You look chastening of a loving God, then He May God sustain you in your striv- at the floor, the ceiling, the window, too will desist. He has said, “My Spirit ing to meet His high expectations and anywhere but in their eyes,” she said. will not always strive with man” (Ether grant you a full measure of the happi- He took that gentle rebuke to heart, 2:15). Eventually, much of our chas- ness and peace that naturally follow. I and it made him much more effec- tening should come from within—we know that you and I can become one tive in counseling and working with should become self-correcting. One with God and Christ. Of our Heavenly people. As one who served as a full- of the ways that our late beloved Father and His Beloved Son and the time missionary under then-President colleague Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin joyous potential we have because of Scott’s direction, I can attest that he became the pure and humble disci- Them, I humbly and confidently bear does look one squarely in the eye in ple that he was, was by analyzing his witness in the name of Jesus Christ, his conversations. I can also add that performance in every assignment and amen. ◼ when one needs correction, that look task. In his desire to please God, he can be very penetrating. resolved to determine what he could NOTES 1. Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Parents can and must correct, even have done better, and then he dili- Become,” ­Liahona, Jan. 2001, 40; ­Ensign, chasten, if their children are not to be gently applied each lesson learned. Nov. 2000, 32. cast adrift at the mercy of a merciless All of us can meet God’s high 2. Kenda Creasy Dean, Almost Christian: What the Faith of Our Teenagers Is Telling adversary and his supporters. President expectations, however great or the American Church (2010), 17. Boyd K. Packer has observed that small our capacity and talent may 3. Dean, Almost Christian, 30; see also when a person in a position to correct be. Moroni affirms, “If ye shall deny Christian Smith and Melinda Lundquist Denton, Soul Searching: The Religious another fails to do so, he is thinking of yourselves of all ungodliness, and love and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers himself. Remember that reproof should God with all your might, mind and (2005), 118–71. be timely, with sharpness or clarity, strength, then is [God’s] grace suffi- 4. Dean, Almost Christian, 37. 5. Hugh B. Brown, “The Currant Bush,” “when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; cient for you, that by his grace ye may ­Liahona, Mar. 2002, 22, 24; New Era, Jan. and then showing forth afterwards an be perfect in Christ” (Moroni 10:32). It 1973, 14, 15. 100 By Elder Carl B. Pratt the train back to the United States. Of the Seventy John was paid that day for his work and was given a bag of silver peso coins to cover the other expenses. Once John and his men had been paid, John returned the balance of The Lord’s Richest money to Mr. Hord, who was sur- prised, as he had not expected any money to be left over. He quizzed Blessings John to make sure all costs had been covered, and John answered that all the expenses for the trip had As we pay our tithing faithfully, the Lord will open the windows been met, and this was the balance of heaven and pour out upon us His richest blessings. of the funds. The train whistled. Mr. Hord turned to go and then turned back and tossed the heavy bag of coins to John. “Here, am grateful for righteous ancestors provided meat, eggs, and milk. Their take this home for your boys,” he said. who taught the gospel to their garden had provided an abundance John caught the bag and headed back I children in the home long before of fruits and vegetables, and they to Colonia Juárez. there were formal family home eve- had made other trades for goods not That evening as the family gath- nings. My maternal grandparents were involving cash. Ida suggested they ered around after supper to hear the Ida Jesperson and John A. Whetten. should give the money to the bishop stories of the trip, John remembered They lived in the small community of to cover their tithing. the bag and brought it in and set Colonia Juárez, , Mexico. John was a little disappointed, as it on the table. John said he didn’t The Whetten children were taught by the cash would have helped a great know how much was in the bag, so precept and by observing the exam- deal toward the children’s schooling, for fun the bag was emptied onto the ples of their parents. but he readily agreed they needed to table—it was quite a pile—and when The early 1920s in Mexico were pay their tithing. He carried the heavy it was counted, it came to exactly hard times. The violent revolution bag to the tithing office and settled 100 pesos in silver. Of course it was had just ended. There was little cash with the bishop. deemed a great blessing that Mr. circulating, and most of it was in silver Shortly afterward he received word Hord had decided to make that trip. coins. People often conducted their that a wealthy businessman from the John and his boys had earned good business through barter, or exchange United States, a Mr. Hord, would arrive wages, but the 100 pesos left over of goods and services. the next week with several men to was a reminder of the exact same One day toward the end of sum- spend a few days in the mountains amount of tithing paid the week mer, Grandpa John came home, hunting and fishing. before. To some, that might be an having completed a trade and having Grandpa John met the party of men interesting coincidence, but to the received as part of the deal 100 pesos at the railroad station not far from Whetten family, it was clearly a lesson in silver coins. He gave the money Colonia Juárez. He had the string of from the Lord that He remembers His to Ida with instructions it was to be saddle horses and the necessary pack promises to those who faithfully pay used to cover the upcoming school animals ready to transport the bag- their tithing. expenses of the children. gage and camp equipment into the As a child I loved that story Ida was grateful for the money but mountains. The following week was because it was about a horseback reminded John that they had not paid spent guiding the men and caring for camping trip into the mountains for any tithing all summer long. They the camp and the animals. hunting and fishing. And I loved it had had no cash income, but Ida At the end of the week, the men because it teaches that when we obey reminded him that the animals had returned to the railroad station to take commandments we are blessed. There

May 2011 101 are several things we can conclude The next thing I notice about that showed great faith in paying their about tithing from this story. story is that my grandparents paid tithing. Let us show our faith in the First, you will notice that the pay- tithing regardless of the poor con- Lord by paying our tithing. Pay it first; ment of tithing in this case was not dition of their family finances. They pay it honestly. Teach our children to related to the amount of cash income. knew the Lord’s commandment; they pay tithing even on their allowance The Whettens decided to use their first likened the scriptures unto themselves or other income, and then take them cash income for tithing because they (see 1 Nephi 19:23–24) and obeyed with us to tithing settlement so they had lived well from their animals and the law. This is what the Lord expects know of our example and our love for their productive fruit and vegetable of all His people. He expects us to pay the Lord. garden. They obviously felt indebted tithing not from our abundance nor There is a possibility of mis­ to the Lord for their blessings. from the “leftovers” of the family bud- interpretation in this story from my That is a reminder of the impli- get but, as He commanded anciently, grandparents. We might conclude cation in the Lord’s words when He from the “firstlings” of our income, be that since we pay tithing with money, asks: “Will a man rob God? Yet ye it scarce or abounding. The Lord has the Lord will always bless us with have robbed me.” The people ask, commanded, “Thou shalt not delay money. I tended to think that way as “Wherein have we robbed thee?” And to offer the first . . . fruits” (Exodus a child. I have since learned it doesn’t the Lord thunders back, “In tithes 22:29). It has been my personal necessarily work that way. The Lord and offerings” (Malachi 3:8). Yes, experience that the surest way to pay promises blessings to those who pay brothers and sisters, just as John and tithing faithfully is to pay it as soon their tithing. He promises to “open Ida Whetten realized that summer as I receive any income. In fact, I’ve . . . the windows of heaven, and pour decades ago, we are all indebted to found it to be the only way. . . . out a blessing, that there shall the Lord. Let us not be accused of We learn from my Whetten grand- not be room enough to receive it” robbing God. Let us be honest and parents that tithing is not a matter (Malachi 3:10). I testify that He fulfills pay our debts to the Lord. All He asks of money, really; it is a matter of His promises, and if we faithfully pay is 10 percent. Integrity in paying our faith—faith in the Lord. He promises our tithing, we will not lack for the debts to the Lord will help us be hon- blessings if we obey His command- necessities of life, but He does not est with our fellowmen. ments. Clearly, John and Ida Whetten promise wealth. Money and bank 102 accounts are not His richest blessings. By Elder Lynn G. Robbins He blesses us with wisdom to manage Of the Seventy our limited material resources, wisdom that enables us to live better with 90 percent of our income than with 100 percent. Thus, faithful tithe payers understand provident living and tend What Manner to be more self-reliant. I have come to understand that the Lord’s richest blessings are spiri- of Men and Women tual, and they often have to do with family, friends, and the gospel. He often seems to give the blessing of a special sensitivity to the influence Ought Ye to Be? and guidance of the Holy Spirit, especially in marriage and family May your efforts to develop Christlike attributes be successful matters like raising children. Such so that His image may be engraven in your countenance and spiritual sensitivity can help us enjoy the blessings of harmony and peace His attributes manifest in your behavior. in the home. President James E. Faust suggested that the payment of tithing is “an excellent insurance against divorce” (“Enriching Your Marriage,” o be, or not to be” is actually a me with their lips, but their heart is far ­Liahona, Apr. 2007, 5; ­Ensign, Apr. very good question.1 The Savior from me” (Mark 7:6). To do without to 2007, 7). Tposed the question in a far more be is hypocrisy, or feigning to be what The payment of tithing helps us profound way, making it a vital doc- one is not—a pretender. develop a submissive and humble trinal question for each of us: “What Conversely, to be without to do is heart and a grateful heart that tends manner of men [and women] ought ye void, as in “faith, if it hath not works, to “confess . . . his hand in all things” to be ? Verily I say unto you, even as I is dead, being alone” ( James 2:17; (D&C 59:21). Tithe-paying fosters in am” (3 Nephi 27:27; emphasis added). emphasis added). Be without do us a generous and forgiving heart and The first-person present tense of the really isn’t being —it is self-deception, a charitable heart full of the pure love verb be is I Am. He invites us to take believing oneself to be good merely of Christ. We become eager to serve upon us His name and His nature. because one’s intentions are good. and bless others with an obedient To become as He is, we must also Do without be —hypocrisy— heart, submissive to the Lord’s will. do the things He did: “Verily, verily, I portrays a false image to others, Regular tithe payers find their faith in say unto you, this is my gospel; and while be without do portrays a false the Lord Jesus Christ strengthened, ye know the things that ye must do image to oneself. and they develop a firm, abiding in my church; for the works which ye The Savior chastised the scribes testimony of His gospel and of His have seen me do that shall ye also do” and Pharisees for their hypocrisy: Church. None of these blessings are (3 Nephi 27:21; emphasis added). “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, monetary or material in any way, To be and to do are inseparable. hypocrites! for ye pay tithe”—some- but surely they are the Lord’s richest As interdependent doctrines they re­ thing they did —“of mint and anise blessings. inforce and promote each other. Faith and cummin, and have omitted the I testify that as we pay our tithing inspires one to pray, for example, and weightier matters of the law, judgment, faithfully, the Lord will open the win- prayer in turn strengthens one’s faith. mercy, and faith” (Matthew 23:23). Or dows of heaven and pour out upon us The Savior often denounced those in other words, they failed to be what His richest blessings. In the name of who did without being —calling them they should have been. Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ hypocrites: “This people honoureth While He recognized the

May 2011 103 importance of do, the Savior identified continue—evidence of the unseen doctrine has the power to change their be as a “weightier matter.” The greater be ’s of patience and diligence. very nature—be —over time. importance of being is illustrated in Because be begets do and is the Alma discovered this same principle, the following examples: motive behind do, teaching be will that “the preaching of the word had a improve behavior more effectively than great tendency to lead the people to do • Entering the waters of baptism is focusing on do will improve behavior. that which was just—yea, it had had something we do. The be that must When children misbehave, let’s say more powerful effect upon the minds precede it is faith in Jesus Christ when they quarrel with each other, of the people than the sword” (Alma and a mighty change of heart. we often misdirect our discipline 31:5; emphasis added). Why? Because • Partaking of the sacrament is some- on what they did, or the quarreling the sword focused only on punishing thing we do. Being worthy to par- we observed. But the do—their behavior—or do—while preaching the take of the sacrament is a weightier behavior—is only a symptom of the word changed people’s very nature— and much more important matter. unseen motive in their hearts. We who they were or could become. • Ordination to the priesthood is an might ask ourselves, “What attributes, A sweet and obedient child will act, or do. The weightier matter, if understood by the child, would cor- enroll a father or mother only in however, is power in the priest- rect this behavior in the future? Being Parenting 101. If you are blessed with hood, which is based “upon the patient and forgiving when annoyed? a child who tests your patience to the principles of righteousness” (D&C Loving and being a peacemaker? nth degree, you will be enrolled in 121:36), or be. Taking personal responsibility for Parenting 505. Rather than wonder one’s actions and not blaming?” what you might have done wrong in Many of us create to do lists to How do parents teach these attrib- the premortal life to be so deserving, remind us of things we want to accom- utes to their children? We will never you might consider the more challeng- plish. But people rarely have to be lists. have a greater opportunity to teach and ing child a blessing and opportunity to Why? To do’s are activities or events show Christlike attributes to our children become more godlike yourself. With that can be checked off the list when than in the way we discipline them. which child will your patience, long- done. To be, however, is never done. Discipline comes from the same root suffering, and other Christlike virtues You can’t earn checkmarks with to be ’s. word as disciple and implies patience most likely be tested, developed, and I can take my wife out for a lovely eve- and teaching on our part. It should not refined? Could it be possible that you ning this Friday, which is a to do. But be done in anger. We can and should need this child as much as this child being a good husband is not an event; discipline the way that Doctrine and needs you? it needs to be part of my nature—my Covenants 121 teaches us: “by persua- We have all heard the advice to character, or who I am. sion, by long-suffering, by gentleness condemn the sin and not the sinner. Or as a parent, when can I check a and meekness, and by love unfeigned; Likewise, when our children mis­ child off my list as done ? We are never by kindness and pure knowledge” behave, we must be careful not to say done being good parents. And to be (verses 41–42). These are all Christlike things that would cause them to believe good parents, one of the most impor- be ’s that should be a part of who we, that what they did wrong is who they tant things we can teach our children as parents and disciples of Christ, are. are. “Never let failure progress from an is how to be more like the Savior. Through discipline the child learns action to an identity,” with its atten- Christlike to be ’s cannot be seen, of consequences. In such moments dant labels like “stupid,” “slow,” “lazy,” but they are the motivating force it is helpful to turn negatives into or “clumsy.” 2 Our children are God’s behind what we do, which can be positives. If the child confesses to a children. That is their true identity and seen. When parents help a child learn wrong, praise the courage it took to potential. His very plan is to help His to walk, for example, we see par- confess. Ask the child what he or she children overcome mistakes and mis- ents doing things like steadying and learned from the mistake or misdeed, deeds and to progress to become as He praising their child. These do’s reveal which gives you, and more important, is. Disappointing behavior, therefore, the unseen love in their hearts and the the Spirit an opportunity to touch should be considered as something unseen faith and hope in their child’s and teach the child. When we teach temporary, not permanent—an act, not potential. Day after day their efforts children doctrine by the Spirit, that an identity. 104 We need to be careful, therefore, energy, perseverance, poise in the In what way were you dependable? about using permanent phrases such face of adversity, etc.—thus compli- honest? generous? humble?” There are as “You always . . .” or “You never . . .” menting both be and do. scores of attributes in the scriptures when disciplining. Take care with When we ask children to do that need to be taught and learned. phrases such as “You never consider chores, we can also look for ways to The most important way to teach my feelings” or “Why do you always compliment them on being, such as, to be is to be the kind of parents to our make us wait?” Phrases like these “It makes me so happy when you do children that our Father in Heaven is make actions appear as an identity your chores with a willing heart.” to us. He is the one perfect parent, and can adversely influence the child’s When children receive a report and He has shared with us His parent- self-perception and self-worth. card from school, we can praise them ing manual—the scriptures. Identity confusion can also occur for their good grades, but it may be of My remarks today have been when we ask children what they want greater lasting benefit to praise them addressed primarily to parents, but to be when they grow up, as if what a for their diligence: “You turned in the principles apply to everyone. person does for a living is who he or every assignment. You are one who May your efforts to develop Christlike she is. Neither professions nor pos- knows how to tackle and finish diffi- attributes be successful so that His sessions should define identity or self- cult things. I am proud of you.” image may be engraven in your coun- worth. The Savior, for example, was During family scripture time, look tenance and His attributes manifest in a humble carpenter, but that hardly for and discuss examples of attributes your behavior. Then, when your chil- defined His life. discovered in your reading that day. dren or others feel of your love and In helping children discover who Because Christlike attributes are gifts see your behavior, it will remind them they are and helping strengthen their from God and cannot be developed of the Savior and draw them to Him is self-worth, we can appropriately com- without His help,3 in family and per- my prayer and testimony in the name pliment their achievement or behavior sonal prayers, pray for those gifts. of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ —the do. But it would be even wiser At the dinner table, occasionally to focus our primary praise on their talk about attributes, especially those NOTES 1. William Shakespeare, Hamlet, Prince of character and beliefs—who they are. you discovered in the scriptures earlier Denmark, act 3, scene 1, line 56. In a game of sports, a wise that morning. “In what way were you 2. Carol Dweck, quoted in Joe Kita, “Bounce way to compliment our children’s a good friend today? In what way Back Chronicles,” Reader’s Digest, May 2009, 95. performance—do—would be through did you show compassion? How did 3. See Preach My Gospel: A Guide to the point of view of be —like their faith help you face today’s challenges? Missionary Service (2004), 115.

May 2011 105 By Elder Benjamín De Hoyos given by the Savior through a prophet Of the Seventy in these latter days: “For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints” (D&C 115:4). The program director immediately and respectfully Called to Be Saints responded, “We will thus repeat it with great pleasure.” Now, I cannot remem- How blessed we are to have been brought into this fellowship ber how many times he repeated the significant name of the Church, but I of the Latter-day Saints! do remember the sweet spirit that was present when we explained not only the name of the Church but also how it makes reference to the members of y dear brothers and sisters, I represent the Church in responding to the Church—the Latter-day Saints. pray that the Holy Ghost will questions that might be asked during We read in the New Testament that Mhelp me deliver my message. this type of a program. After several the members of the Church of Jesus In the course of my visits and commercial breaks, as they say in Christ were called Christians for the conferences in stakes, wards, and radio parlance, the program director first time in Antioch (see Acts 11:26), branches, I am always filled with a made this comment: “We have with but they called each other Saints. How profound sense of joy in meeting with us this evening two elders from The stirring it must have been for them to the members of the Church, those Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day hear the Apostle Paul call them “fel- who today as well as in the meridian Saints.” He paused and then asked, lowcitizens with the saints, and of the of time are called Saints. The spirit of “Why does the Church have such household of God” (Ephesians 2:19) peace and love that I always feel when a long name? Why don’t you use a and also say they were “called to be being with them helps me realize that shorter or more commercial name?” saints” (Romans 1:7; emphasis added). I am in one of the stakes of Zion. My companion and I smiled at such To the degree that members of the Even though many come from fam- a magnificent question and then pro- Church live the gospel and follow the ilies that have been members for two ceeded to explain that the name of the counsel of the prophets, they will, little or more generations in the Church, Church was not chosen by man. It was by little and even without noticing it, many others are recent converts. To these we repeat the welcoming words Ushuaia, Argentina of the Apostle Paul to the Ephesians: “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow- citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Ephesians 2:19–20). Some years ago while serving in the office of public affairs of the Church in Mexico, we were invited to participate in a radio talk show. The purpose of the show was to describe and discuss the different religions of the world. Two of us were assigned to 106 become sanctified. Humble members of the Church who conduct daily fam- ily prayer and scripture study, engage in family history, and consecrate their time to worship in the temple fre- quently, become Saints. They are those who are dedicated to creating eternal families. They are also those who set apart time from their busy lives to res- cue those who have become alienated from the Church and encourage them to return and sit at the Lord’s table. They are those elders and sisters and mature couples who respond to a call to serve as the Lord’s missionaries. Yes, my brothers and sisters, they become Saints to the degree that they discover that warm and wonderful feeling that is called charity, or the pure love of Christ before him, and the keeper of the words adequate to express my appre- (see Moroni 7:42–48). gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he ciation and admiration for all of those The Saints, or members of the employeth no servant there; and there faithful Saints with whom I have had Church, also come to know our Savior is none other way save it be by the the privilege of associating! through afflictions and trials. Let us gate; for he cannot be deceived, for Even though our understanding of not forget that even He had to suffer the Lord God is his name. the gospel may not be as deep as is all things. “And he will take upon him “And whoso knocketh, to him will our testimony of its truth, if we place death, that he may loose the bands of he open” (2 Nephi 9:41–42). our confidence in the Lord, we will death which bind his people; and he It does not matter the circum- be sustained in all of our difficulties, will take upon him their infirmities, stances, trials, or challenges that might our trials, and our afflictions (see Alma that his bowels may be filled with surround us; an understanding of the 36:3). This promise from the Lord to mercy, according to the flesh, that he doctrine of Christ and His Atonement His Saints does not imply that we will may know according to the flesh how will be the source of our strength and be exempt from sufferings or trials to succor his people according to their peace—yes, brothers and sisters, that but that we will be sustained through infirmities” (Alma 7:12). internal tranquility that is born of the them and that we will know that it is Over the last several years, I have Spirit and which the Lord gives to His the Lord who has sustained us. witnessed the suffering of many peo- faithful Saints. He nourishes us, saying: My dear brothers and sisters, how ple, including many of our Saints. We “Peace I leave with you. . . . Let not blessed we are to have been brought pray continually for them, petitioning your heart be troubled, neither let it into this fellowship of the Latter-day the Lord’s intervention that their faith be afraid” ( John 14:27). Saints! How blessed we are that our may not weaken and that they may For many years I have been a wit- testimonies of the Savior are found move forward with patience. To these ness to the faithfulness of the mem- alongside those of past and modern we repeat the comforting words of bers of the Church, Saints of the latter prophets! the prophet Jacob from the Book of days, who with faith in our Heavenly I testify that our Lord, the Holy Mormon: Father’s plan and in the Atonement of One of Israel, lives and that He “O then, my beloved brethren, our Savior, Jesus Christ, have overcome directs His Church, The Church of come unto the Lord, the Holy One. tribulations and afflictions with bravery Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Remember that his paths are righ- and great enthusiasm, thus persevering through our beloved prophet, teous. Behold, the way for man is and continuing in the strait and narrow Thomas S. Monson. In the name of narrow, but it lieth in a straight course path of sanctification. I do not have our Lord, Jesus Christ, amen. ◼

May 2011 107 By Elder C. Scott Grow We access the Atonement through Of the Seventy repentance. When we repent, the Lord allows us to put the mistakes of the past behind us. “Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, The Miracle of the the Lord, remember them no more. “By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins―behold, he will Atonement confess them and forsake them.” 2 Each of us knows a person who has had serious challenges in his or There is no sin or transgression, pain or sorrow, which is her life―someone who has wandered outside of the healing power of His Atonement. or wavered. That person could be a friend or relative, a parent or child, a husband or wife. That person may even be you. hile preparing my talk for himself.” 1 He began to reach out to I speak unto all, even unto this conference, I received the Savior and to make his way back you. I speak of the miracle of the Wa shocking phone call from home and to faithful parents who Atonement. my father. He said that my younger never gave up on him. The Messiah came to redeem men brother had died that morning in his He walked the path of repentance. from the Fall of Adam.3 Everything sleep. I was heartbroken. He was only It wasn’t easy. After being out of the in the gospel of Jesus Christ points 51 years old. As I thought about him, Church for 12 years, he was rebap- toward the atoning sacrifice of the I felt impressed to share with you tized and received again the gift of Messiah, the Son of God.4 some events from his life. I do so with the Holy Ghost. His priesthood and The plan of salvation could not be permission. temple blessings were eventually brought about without an atonement. As a youth my brother was hand- restored. “Therefore God himself atoneth for some, friendly, and outgoing―totally He was blessed to find a woman the sins of the world, to bring about dedicated to the gospel. After serving who was willing to overlook the the plan of mercy, to appease the an honorable mission, he married his ongoing health challenges from his demands of justice, that God might sweetheart in the temple. They were prior lifestyle, and they were sealed be a perfect, just God, and a merciful blessed with a son and a daughter. His in the temple. Together they had two God also.” 5 future was full of promise. children. He served faithfully in the The atoning sacrifice had to be But then he gave in to a weakness. bishopric for several years. carried out by the sinless Son of God, He chose to live a hedonistic life- My brother died on Monday morn- for fallen man could not atone for his style, which cost him his health, his ing, March 7. The previous Friday own sins.6 The Atonement had to be marriage, and his membership in the evening he and his wife attended the infinite and eternal―to cover all men Church. temple. On Sunday morning, the day throughout all eternity.7 He moved far from home. He before he died, he taught the priest- Through His suffering and death, continued his self-destructive behavior hood lesson in his high priests group. the Savior atoned for the sins of for more than a decade, but the Savior He went to bed that evening, never to all men.8 His Atonement began had not forgotten or abandoned him. awaken again in this life―but to come in Gethsemane and continued on Eventually the pain of his despair forth in the resurrection of the just. the cross and culminated with the allowed a spirit of humility to enter I am grateful for the miracle of the Resurrection. his soul. His feelings of anger, rebel- Atonement in the life of my brother. “Yea, . . . he shall be led, crucified, lion, and militancy began to dissipate. The Savior’s Atonement is available to and slain, the flesh becoming subject Like the prodigal son, “he came to each of us—always. even unto death, the will of the Son 108 being swallowed up in the will of the Father.” 9 Through His atoning sacrifice, He made “his soul an offering for sin.” 10 As the Only Begotten Son of God, He inherited power over physical death. That allowed Him to sustain His life as He suffered “even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great [was] his anguish for the wickedness and the abomina- tions of his people.” 11 Not only did He pay the price for the sins of all men, but He also took “upon him the pains and the sick- nesses of his people.” And He took “upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, . . . that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people accord- ing to their infirmities.” 12 The Savior felt the weight of the anguish of all mankind―the anguish “Repent—repent, lest . . . your When we sin, Satan tells us we are of sin and of sorrow. “Surely he has sufferings be sore—how sore you lost. In contrast, our Redeemer offers borne our griefs, and carried our know not, how exquisite you know redemption to all—no matter what we sorrows.” 13 not, yea, how hard to bear you have done wrong—even to you and Through His Atonement, He heals know not. to me. not only the transgressor, but He also “For behold, I, God, have suffered As you consider your own life, are heals the innocent who suffer because these things for all, that they might not there things that you need to change? of those transgressions. As the inno- suffer if they would repent; Have you made mistakes that still cent exercise faith in the Savior and in “But if they would not repent they need to be corrected? His Atonement and forgive the trans- must suffer even as I; If you are suffering from feelings of gressor, they too can be healed. “Which suffering caused myself, guilt or remorse, bitterness or anger, There are times when each of us even God, the greatest of all, to trem- or loss of faith, I invite you to seek needs “relief from feelings of guilt that ble because of pain, and to bleed at relief. Repent and forsake your sins. come from mistakes and sins.” 14 As we every pore, and to suffer both body Then, in prayer, ask God for forgive- repent, the Savior removes the guilt and spirit.” 16 ness. Seek forgiveness from those you from our souls. The Savior offers healing to those have wronged. Forgive those who Through His atoning sacrifice, our who are suffering from sin. “Will ye have wronged you. Forgive yourself. sins are remitted. With the exception not now return unto me, and repent Go to the bishop if necessary. He is of sons of perdition, the Atonement is of your sins, and be converted, that I the Lord’s messenger of mercy. He will available to everyone all the time, no may heal you?” 17 help you as you struggle to become matter how large or small the sin, “on Jesus Christ is the Great Healer clean through repentance. conditions of repentance.” 15 of our souls. With the exception of Immerse yourself in prayer and Because of His infinite love, Jesus sins of perdition, there is no sin or scripture study. As you do so, you will Christ invites us to repent so that we transgression, pain or sorrow, which feel the sanctifying influence of the will not have to suffer the full weight is outside of the healing power of His Spirit. The Savior said, “Sanctify your- of our own sins: Atonement. selves; yea, purify your hearts, and

May 2011 109 cleanse your hands . . . before me, that he chose to repent, to conform his is available to each of us—always. I may make you clean.” 18 life to the teachings of the Savior, and I testify that Jesus is the Christ—the As we are made clean through the to literally be born again through the Healer of our souls. I pray that each power of His Atonement, the Savior power of the Atonement. of us will choose to respond to the becomes our advocate with the Father, I testify of the miracle of the Savior’s invitation: “Will ye not now pleading: Atonement. I have seen its healing return unto me, and repent of your “Father, behold the sufferings and power in the life of my brother and sins, and be converted, that I may heal death of him who did no sin, in whom felt it in my own life. The healing and you?” 21 In the name of Jesus Christ, thou wast well pleased; behold the redemptive power of the Atonement amen. ◼ blood of thy Son which was shed, the NOTES blood of him whom thou gavest that 1. Luke 15:17. thyself might be glorified; 2. Doctrine and Covenants 58:42–43. “Wherefore, Father, spare these my 3. See 2 Nephi 2:25–26. 4. See Alma 34:14. brethren that believe on my name, 5. Alma 42:15. that they may come unto me and have 6. See Alma 34:11. everlasting life.” 19 7. See Alma 34:10. 8. See Alma 22:14. Each of us has been given the gift 9. Mosiah 15:7. of moral agency. “Men are free . . . to 10. Mosiah 14:10. choose liberty and eternal life, through 11. Mosiah 3:7. 12. Alma 7:11–12. the great Mediator of all men, or to 13. Mosiah 14:4. choose captivity and death, according 14. Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary to the . . . power of the devil.” 20 Service (2004), 2. 15. Doctrine and Covenants 18:12. Years ago my brother exercised his 16. Doctrine and Covenants 19:15–18. agency when he chose a lifestyle that 17. 3 Nephi 9:13. cost him his health, his family, and his 18. Doctrine and Covenants 88:74. 19. Doctrine and Covenants 45:4–5. membership in the Church. Years later 20. 2 Nephi 2:27. he exercised that same agency when 21. 3 Nephi 9:13. 110 By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland observe about them. We testify to Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles every nation, kindred, tongue, and people that God not only lives but also that He speaks, that for our time and in our day the counsel you have heard is, under the direction of the An Ensign Holy Spirit, “the will of the Lord, . . . the word of the Lord, . . . the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto to the Nations salvation.” 3 Perhaps you already know (but if you don’t you should) that with rare If we teach by the Spirit and you listen by the Spirit, some one exception, no man or woman who of us will touch on your circumstance. speaks here is assigned a topic. Each is to fast and pray, study and seek, start and stop and start again until he or she is confident that for this con- have been so moved by every note Heber C. Kimball produced a yellow ference, at this time, his or hers is the of music sung and every word bandana. Brother Brigham tied it to a topic the Lord wishes that speaker to I spoken that I pray I can be able to walking stick carried by Elder Willard present regardless of personal wishes speak at all. Richards and then planted the make- or private preferences. Every man and Before leaving Nauvoo in the shift flag, declaring the valley of the woman you have heard during the winter of 1846, President Brigham Great Salt Lake and the mountains past 10 hours of general conference Young had a dream in which he saw surrounding it as that prophesied has tried to be true to that prompting. an angel standing on a cone-shaped place from which the word of the Lord Each has wept, worried, and earnestly hill somewhere in the West pointing to would go forth in the latter days. sought the Lord’s direction to guide a valley below. When he entered the Brothers and sisters, this general his or her thoughts and expression. Salt Lake Valley some 18 months later, conference and the other annual And just as Brigham Young saw an he saw just above the location where and semiannual versions of it are the angel standing over this place, so do I we are now gathered the same hillside continuation of that early declaration see angels standing in it. My brethren prominence he had seen in vision. to the world. I testify that the proceed- and sisters among the general officers As has often been told from this ings of the past two days are yet one of the Church will be uneasy with pulpit, Brother Brigham led a hand- more evidence that, as our hymn says, that description, but that is how I see ful of leaders to the summit of that “Lo, Zion’s standard is unfurled” 2— them—mortal messengers with angelic hill and proclaimed it Ensign Peak, and surely the dual meaning of the messages, men and women who have a name filled with religious meaning word standard is intentional. It is all the physical and financial and fam- for these modern Israelites. Twenty- not happenstance that one English ily difficulties you and I have but who five hundred years earlier the prophet publication of our general conference with faith have consecrated their lives Isaiah had declared that in the last messages is in a magazine simply to the callings that have come to them days “the mountain of the Lord’s titled the ­Ensign. and the duty to preach God’s word, house shall be established in the top As our conference comes to a not their own. of the mountains,” and there “he shall close, I ask you to reflect in the days Consider the variety of the mes- set up an ensign for the nations.” 1 ahead not only on the messages you sages that you hear—all the more Seeing their moment in history as have heard but also on the unique miraculous with no coordination partial fulfillment of that prophecy, phenomenon that general conference except the direction of heaven. But the Brethren wished to fly a banner itself is—what we as Latter-day Saints why wouldn’t they be varied? Most of of some kind to make the idea of “an believe such conferences to be and our congregation, seen or unseen, is ensign for the nations” literal. Elder what we invite the world to hear and made up of members of the Church.

May 2011 111 strait the way of the peacemaker and the pure in heart would need to be. “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill,” He observed. “But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother . . . shall be in danger of the judgment.” 11 And likewise, “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not com- mit adultery: “But I say unto you, That whoso- ever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” 12 Obviously as the path of disciple- ship ascends, that trail gets ever more narrow until we come to that knee- buckling pinnacle of the sermon of which Elder Christofferson just spoke: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your However, with marvelous new meth- these conference messages “proclaim Father which is in heaven is perfect.” 13 ods of communication, ever larger liberty to the captives” 7 and declare What was gentle in the lowlands of proportions of the audience for our “the unsearchable riches of Christ.” 8 initial loyalty becomes deeply stren- conferences are not members of the In the wide variety of sermons given uous and very demanding at the Church—yet. So we must speak to is the assumption that there will be summit of true discipleship. Clearly those who know us very well and something for everyone. In this regard, anyone who thinks Jesus taught no- those who know us not at all. Within I guess President Harold B. Lee put it fault theology did not read the fine the Church alone we must speak to best years ago when he said that the print in the contract! No, in matters of the children, the youth and young gospel is “to comfort the afflicted and discipleship the Church is not a fast- adults, the middle-aged, and the to afflict the [comfortable].” 9 food outlet; we can’t always have it elderly. We must speak to families and We always want our teaching in “our way.” Some day every knee shall parents and children at home even as general conference to be as gener- bow and every tongue confess that we speak to those who are not mar- ous and open-armed as Christ taught Jesus is the Christ and that salvation ried, without children, and perhaps originally, remembering as we do the can only come His way.14 very far from home. In the course discipline that was always inherent In wanting to measure up to the of a general conference, we always in His messages. In the most famous stern as well as embrace the soothing stress the eternal verities of faith, sermon ever given, Jesus began by in our general conference messages, hope, charity,4 and Christ crucified 5 pronouncing wonderfully gentle bless- please be reassured that when we even as we speak forthrightly on very ings which every one of us want to speak on difficult subjects, we under- specific moral issues of the day. We claim—blessings promised to the poor stand not everyone is viewing pornog- are commanded in the scriptures to in spirit, the pure in heart, the peace- raphy or shirking marriage or having “say nothing but repentance unto this makers, and the meek.10 How edifying illicit sexual relationships. We know generation,” 6 while at the same time those Beatitudes are and how sooth- not everyone is violating the Sabbath we are to preach “good tidings [to] the ing they are to the soul. They are true. or bearing false witness or abusing meek . . . [and] bind up the broken- But in that same sermon the Savior a spouse. We know that most in our hearted.” Whatever form they take, went on, showing how increasingly audience are not guilty of such things, 112 but we are under a solemn charge to issue warning calls to those who are— wherever they may be in the world. So if you are trying to do the best you can—if, for example, you keep trying to hold family home evening in spite of the bedlam that sometimes reigns in a houseful of little bedlamites— then give yourself high marks and, Bucharest, Romania when we come to that subject, listen for another which addresses a topic tempests, and the voice of the waves stays irrepressibly cheerful through it where you may be lacking. If we teach of the sea heaving themselves beyond all. Nothing gets him down. He has by the Spirit and you listen by the their bounds. . . . remarkable faith and unusual stamina. Spirit, some one of us will touch on “And angels shall . . . [cry] with a President, for this entire congrega- your circumstance, sending a personal loud voice, sounding the trump of tion, seen and unseen, I say we love prophetic epistle just to you. God.” 16 and honor you. Your devotion is an Brothers and sisters, in general Now, these mortal angels who example to us all. We thank you for conference we offer our testimonies come to this pulpit have, each in your leadership. Fourteen others hold- in conjunction with other testimonies his or her own way, sounded “the ing the apostolic office, plus others on that will come, because one way trump of God.” Every sermon given is this stand, those seated in the congre- or another God will have His voice always, by definition, both a testimony gation, and legions gathered around heard. “I sent you out to testify and of love and a warning, even as nature the world love you, sustain you, and warn the people,” the Lord has said to herself will testify with love and a stand shoulder to shoulder with you His prophets.15 warning in the last days. in this work. We will lighten your “[And] after your testimony cometh Now, in a moment President load any way we can. You are one of the testimony of earthquakes, . . . of Thomas S. Monson will come to the those angelic messengers called from thunderings, . . . lightnings, and . . . pulpit to close this conference. May before the foundation of the world to I say something personal about this wave the ensign of the gospel of Jesus beloved man, the senior Apostle and Christ to all the world. You are doing the prophet for the day in which we so magnificently. Of that gospel being now live. Given the responsibilities declared, the salvation it provides, and I have referred to and all that you He who provides it, I so testify in the have heard in this conference, it is grand and glorious name of the Lord obvious that the lives of prophets Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ are not easy, and President Monson’s NOTES life is not easy. He referred specifi- 1. Isaiah 2:2; 11:12. cally to that last night in priesthood 2. “The Morning Breaks,” Hymns, no. 1. 3. Doctrine and Covenants 68:4. meeting. Called to the apostleship 4. See 1 Corinthians 13:13. at age 36, his children were ages 12, 5. See 1 Corinthians 1:23. 9, and 4, respectively. Sister Monson 6. Doctrine and Covenants 6:9; 11:9. 7. Isaiah 61:1. and those children have given their 8. Ephesians 3:8. husband and father to the Church 9. See Harold B. Lee, in “The Message,” New and its duties for more than 50 years. Era, Jan. 1971, 6. 10. See Matthew 5:3–12. They have endured the illnesses and 11. Matthew 5:21–22; see also 3 Nephi 12:22. demands, the bumps and bruises 12. Matthew 5:27–28. of mortality which everyone faces, 13. Matthew 5:48. 14. See Romans 14:11; Mosiah 27:31. some of which undoubtedly yet lie 15. Doctrine and Covenants 88:81. ahead of them. But President Monson 16. Doctrine and Covenants 88:89–90, 92.

May 2011 113 and for His great atoning sacrifice for By President Thomas S. Monson us. In three weeks’ time the entire Christian world will be celebrating Easter. I believe that none of us can conceive the full import of what Christ did for us in Gethsemane, but I am At Parting grateful every day of my life for His atoning sacrifice in our behalf. None of us can conceive the full import of what Christ did for At the last moment, He could have turned back. But He did not. He passed us in Gethsemane, but I am grateful every day of my life for beneath all things that He might save His atoning sacrifice. all things. In doing so, He gave us life beyond this mortal existence. He reclaimed us from the Fall of Adam. To the depths of my very soul, I y brothers and sisters, my support my Brethren of the Quorum am grateful to Him. He taught us how heart is full as we come to of the Twelve Apostles. They serve to live. He taught us how to die. He Mthe close of this conference. most effectively, and they are com- secured our salvation. We have felt the Spirit of the Lord in pletely dedicated to the work. I also As I close, may I share with you rich abundance. I express my appre- express my love to the members touching words written by Emily ciation and that of members of the of the Seventy and the Presiding Harris which describe so well my feel- Church everywhere to each one who Bishopric. ings as Easter comes: has participated, including those who We face many challenges in the have offered prayers. May we long world today, but I assure you that The linen which once held Him remember the messages we have our Heavenly Father is mindful of us. is empty. heard. As we receive the issues of He loves each of us and will bless us It lies there, the ­Ensign and ­Liahona magazines as we seek Him through prayer and Fresh and white and clean. which will contain these messages strive to keep His commandments. The door stands opened. in written form, may we read and We are a global church. Our mem- The stone is rolled away, study them. bership is found throughout the world. And I can almost hear the angels Once again the music in all of May we be good citizens of the nations singing His praises. the sessions has been wonderful. I in which we live and good neighbors Linen cannot hold Him. express my personal gratitude for in our communities, reaching out to Stone cannot hold Him. those willing to share with us their those of other faiths as well as to those The words echo through the empty talents, touching and inspiring us in of our own. May we be examples of limestone chamber, the process. honesty and integrity wherever we go “He is not here.” We have sustained, by uplifted and in whatever we do. The linen which once held Him hand, Brethren who have been called Thank you for your prayers in my is now empty. to new positions during this confer- behalf, brothers and sisters, and in It lies there, ence. We want them to know that we behalf of all of the General Authorities Fresh and white and clean look forward to working with them in of the Church. We are deeply grate- And oh, hallelujah, it is empty.1 the cause of the Master. ful for you and for all that you do to I express my love and appreci- further the work of the Lord. Blessings to you, my brothers and ation for my devoted counselors, As you return to your homes, may sisters. In the name of Jesus Christ, our President Henry B. Eyring and you do so safely. May the blessings of Savior, amen. ◼ President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. They are heaven be upon you. NOTE men of wisdom and understanding. Now, before we leave today, may I 1. Emily Harris, “Empty Linen,” New Era, Apr. Their service is invaluable. I love and share with you my love for the Savior 2011, 49. 114 GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING | March 26, 2011

By Ann M. Dibb Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency I Believe in Being Honest and True

Being true to our beliefs—even when doing so isn’t popular, easy, or fun—keeps us safely on the path that leads to eternal life with our Heavenly Father.

y dear young women, it is a all men; indeed, we may say that we great privilege and opportu- follow the admonition of Paul—We Mnity for me to stand before believe all things, we hope all things, you this evening. You are an amazing we have endured many things, and and inspiring sight. hope to be able to endure all things. If The thirteenth article of faith is the there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of 2011 Mutual theme. As I’ve attended good report or praiseworthy, we seek youth gatherings and sacrament after these things.” meetings this year, I’ve heard young In the first Sunday morning gen- men and young women share what eral conference address President the thirteenth article of faith means to Thomas S. Monson delivered as the them and how it applies in their lives. prophet, he quoted the admonition of There are many who know it to be Paul found in Philippians 4:8, which the last article of faith, the longest, the inspired many of the principles in the hardest to memorize, and the article thirteenth article of faith. President of faith they hope the bishop does not Monson acknowledged the challenging ask them to recite. However, many times in which we live and provided of you also understand the thirteenth encouragement. He said, “In this some- article of faith is much more. times precarious journey through mor- The thirteenth article of faith is a tality, may we . . . follow that advice guide for righteous, Christian living. from the Apostle Paul which will help Imagine for a moment what our world to keep us safe and on course.” 1 would be like if everyone chose to Tonight I would like to focus on live by the teachings found in the two closely related principles in the thirteenth article of faith: “We believe thirteenth article of faith that definitely in being honest, true, chaste, benev- help “keep us safe and on course.” olent, virtuous, and in doing good to I have a strong testimony of and

May 2011 115 defines the word true as being “stead- fast,” “loyal,” “accurate,” or “without deviation.” 7 One of my favorite books is the British classic Jane Eyre, written by Charlotte Brontë and published in 1847. The main character, Jane Eyre, is a penniless, teenage orphan who exemplifies what it means to be true. Montalban, Philippines In this fictional account, a man, Mr. Rochester, loves Miss Eyre but is commitment to the important princi- big and small, we experience peace of unable to marry her. Instead, he begs ples of being honest and being true. mind and a clear conscience. Our rela- Miss Eyre to live with him without the First, “[I] believe in being honest.” tionships are enriched because they benefit of marriage. Miss Eyre loves Mr. What does it mean to be honest? The are based on trust. And the greatest Rochester as well, and for a moment booklet True to the Faith teaches, “To blessing that comes from being honest she is tempted, asking herself, “Who in be honest means to be sincere, truth- is that we are able to have the com- the world cares for you? or who will be ful, and without deceit at all times.” 2 panionship of the Holy Ghost. injured by what you do?” It is a commandment from God to I would like to share a simple story Quickly Jane’s conscience answers: be honest,3 and “complete honesty is that has strengthened my commitment “I care for myself. The more solitary, necessary for our salvation.” 4 to be honest in all things: the more friendless, the more unsus- President Howard W. Hunter taught “A man . . . went one evening to tained I am, the more I will respect that we must be willing to be strictly steal corn from a neighbor’s field. He myself. I will keep the law given by honest. He said: took his little boy with him to sit on God. . . . Laws and principles are not “Several years ago there were the fence and keep a look-out, so as to for the times when there is no tempta- posters in the foyers and entries of our give warning in case any one should tion: they are for such moments as this. chapels that were entitled ‘Be Honest come along. The man jumped over the . . . If at my individual convenience with Yourself.’ Most of them pertained fence with a large bag on his arm, and I might break them, what would be to the little, ordinary things of life. This before commencing to take the corn their worth? They have a worth—so I is where the principle of honesty is he looked all around, first one way cultivated. and then the other, and not seeing any “There are some who will admit it person, he was just about to fill his bag. is morally wrong to be dishonest in . . . [The boy then called out]: big things yet believe it is excusable if “‘Father, there is one way you those things are of lesser importance. haven’t looked yet! . . . You forgot to Is there really any difference between look up.’” 6 dishonesty involving a thousand When we are tempted to be dishon- dollars or that which involves only a est, and this temptation comes to all of dime? . . . Are there really degrees of us, we may suppose that no one will dishonesty, depending upon whether ever know. This story reminds us that or not the subject is great or small?” our Heavenly Father always knows, President Hunter continues: “If we and we are ultimately accountable to would have the companionship of Him. This knowledge helps me con- the Master and the Spirit of the Holy tinually strive to live up to this commit- Ghost, we must be honest with our- ment: “[I] believe in being honest.” selves, honest with God, and with our The second principle taught in the fellowmen. This results in true joy.” 5 thirteenth article of faith is “[I] believe When we are honest in all things, in being . . . true.” The dictionary 116 have always believed. . . . Preconceived of a young woman who, through her graduated from high school. I thought opinions, foregone determinations, are commitment to be true to her beliefs, my dream was strange, but I didn’t all I have at this hour to stand by: there had a great impact on another young attribute it to anything. I dreamed I plant my foot.” 8 woman’s life. about you again for the next three In a desperate moment of tempta- Several years ago Kristi and Jenn nights. I spent time thinking about the tion, Jane Eyre was true to her beliefs, were in the same high school choir meaning of my dreams. I remembered she trusted in the law given by God, class in Hurst, Texas. Although they that you were a Mormon. I checked and she planted her foot in resistance didn’t know each other well, Jenn the Mormon website. The first thing I to temptation. overheard Kristi talking with her found was the Word of Wisdom. My Being true to our beliefs—even friends one day about religion, their mother had passed away from lung when doing so isn’t popular, easy, or various beliefs, and favorite Bible sto- cancer two years previously. She had fun—keeps us safely on the path that ries. Recently, upon reconnecting with been a smoker, and reading about the leads to eternal life with our Heavenly Kristi, Jenn shared this story: Word of Wisdom really hit home with Father. I love this picture drawn by “I felt sad that I didn’t know me. Later I was visiting my father’s one young woman to remind her of anything about what you and your house. I was sitting in his living room, her desire to experience the joy of friends were talking about, and so for and I started to pray. I asked to know living with Heavenly Father forever. Christmas I asked my parents for a where to go and what to do. At that Bible. I received the Bible, and I started moment a commercial for the Church reading it. This began my religious came on television. I wrote down the journey and my search for the true number and called the same night. The Church. . . . Twelve years passed. missionaries called me three days later, During that time I visited several asking if they could deliver a Book of churches and attended church on a Mormon to my home. I said, ‘Yes.’ I regular basis but still felt that there was was baptized three and a half months something more. One night I fell on my later. Two years later I met my husband Being true also allows us to have a knees and begged to know what to do. at church. We were married in the positive effect on the lives of others. That night I had a dream about you, Dallas Temple. Now we are the parents I recently heard this inspiring story Kristi. I hadn’t seen you since we had of two beautiful little children.

May 2011 117 “I wanted to thank you, Kristi. By Mary N. Cook You set such a wonderful example First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency throughout high school. You were kind and virtuous. The missionaries taught me the lessons and invited me to be baptized, but you were my third missionary. You planted a seed “Remember This: through your actions, and you truly have made my life better. I have an eternal family now. My children will Kindness Begins grow up knowing the fulness of the gospel. It is the greatest blessing that any of us can be given. You helped bring that into my life.” with Me” When I contacted her, Kristi shared: “Sometimes I think we hear the list Benevolence can bring joy and unity to your home, your of attributes that the thirteenth article of faith outlines, and we feel over- class, your ward, and your school. whelmed. However, I know that as we live these standards and strive to follow Christ’s example, we can make a difference. . . . I feel much like Ammon few weeks ago I learned an Jesus Christ,” I had the answer. in Alma 26:3 when he says, ‘And this is important lesson from a Laurel “We believe in being honest, true, the blessing which hath been bestowed A who was the youth speaker in chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in upon us, that we have been made my ward. I was touched as she con- doing good to all men.” This beautiful instruments in the hands of God to fidently taught and testified of Jesus list of Christlike attributes, found in the bring about this great work.’” Christ. She concluded her remarks thirteenth article of faith, will prepare It is my prayer that each of you with this statement: “When I make us for temple blessings and eternal life. will not only state, “I believe in being Jesus Christ the center of my life, my I would like to focus on just one of honest and true” but that you will also day goes better, I’m kinder to my these words—benevolent. Benevolent commit to live that promise each and loved ones, and I am filled with joy.” is a lovely word that we don’t hear every day. I pray that as you do this, I have observed this young woman very often. Its roots are Latin, and Heavenly Father’s strength, love, and from a distance over the past few it means “to wish someone well.” 2 blessings will sustain you as you do months. She greets everyone with To be benevolent is to be kind, well the work you were each sent here to sparkling eyes and a quick smile. I’ve meaning, and charitable. Many of you do. I say these things in the name of watched her rejoice in the success of learned about the idea of benevolence Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ other youth. Two Mia Maids recently when you were in Primary and com- NOTES reported to me of this young woman’s mitted this song to memory: 1. Thomas S. Monson, “Looking Back and decision to forfeit her ticket to a movie Moving Forward,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, when she realized that it was not I want to be kind to ev’ryone, May 2008, 90. 2. True to the Faith (2004), 84. going to be an experience that was For that is right, you see. 3. See Exodus 20:15–16. “virtuous and lovely.” 1 She’s loving, So I say to myself, “Remember this: 4. Gospel Principles (2009), 179. kind, and obedient. She comes from Kindness begins with me.” 3 5. Howard W. Hunter, “Basic Concepts of Honesty,” New Era, Feb. 1978, 4, 5. a single-parent home, and her life 6. William J. Scott, “Forgot to Look Up,” Scott’s has not been without challenges, so Our Savior taught us about and Monthly Magazine, Dec. 1867, 953. I’ve wondered how she maintains her lived a benevolent life. Jesus loved all 7. See Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th ed. (2003), “true.” happy, kind spirit. When this young and He served all. Centering our lives 8. Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre (2003), 356. woman testified, “I center my life on on Jesus Christ will help us acquire 118 Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. . . . “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, “And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. “And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and what- soever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.” 5 Unlike the Jewish priest and Levite who passed by the wounded man, one of their own, the Samaritan was kind regardless of differences. He demonstrated the Christlike attribute of benevolence. Jesus taught us through this story that everyone is our neighbor. A counselor in a bishopric recently shared an experience that teaches how important each neighbor is. While looking out over the congre- gation, he saw a child with a large box of crayons filled with a variety of different hues. As he looked at the many members of his ward, he was this attribute of benevolence. For us to The lawyer then asked, “Who reminded that, like the crayons, they develop these same Christlike attrib- is my neighbour?” That was a very were very similar but each person was utes, we must learn about the Savior interesting question for the lawyer to also very unique. and “follow in His ways.” 4 ask, since the Jews had neighbors to He remarked: “The shade they From the parable of the good the north, the Samaritans, whom they brought to the ward and the world Samaritan we learn that we are to love disliked so much that when they trav- was all their own. . . . They had their all. The story begins in Luke, chapter eled from Jerusalem to Galilee, they individual strengths and weaknesses, 10, when a lawyer asked the Savior, would take the longer way through personal longings, private dreams. But “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” the Jordan Valley rather than travel together, they blended into a color The answer: “Thou shalt love the through Samaria. wheel of spiritual unity. . . . Lord thy God with all thy heart, and Jesus answered the lawyer’s ques- “Unity is a spiritual quality. It’s the with all thy soul, and with all thy tion by telling the parable of the good sweet feelings of peace and purpose strength, and with all thy mind; and Samaritan. According to the parable: that come from belonging to a family. thy neighbour as thyself.” “A certain man went down from . . . It’s wanting the best for others

May 2011 119 others. Many problems in the home are created because family members speak and act selfishly or unkindly. Concern yourself with the needs of other family members. Seek to be a peacemaker rather than to tease, fight, and quarrel.” 9 “Remember this: kind- ness begins with me.” Jesus loved the children, took them in His arms, and blessed them.10 Like the Savior, you can bless all children with your kindness, not just those in as much as you want it for yourself. kindness will start to become a part your home. . . . It’s knowing that no one is out to of your everyday life. You’ll see that You may not know the impact your harm you. [It means you will never be benevolence can bring joy and unity to life and example may have on a little lonely.]” 6 your home, your class, your ward, and child. I recently received a note from a We build that unity and share our your school. “Remember this: kindness friend who manages a day-care center unique colors through benevolence: begins with me.” in a local high school. Attending that individual acts of kindness. Not only did our Savior love all; He high school are several young men Have you ever felt lonely? Do you served all. Expand your goodness to and young women who are members notice those who are lonely, living many. Old and young can be greatly of the Church. She shared with me in a black-and-white world? Young blessed by your kind service. President this experience: “As I walk through women, I’ve watched as you bring Monson, since the time he was a young the halls with the little children, it is your unique color into the lives of oth- man, has always had a special place in nice to see how many lockers have ers with your smiles, your kind words, his heart for the elderly. He recognizes pictures of Jesus or of temples taped or a note of encouragement. the value of a short visit, a ready smile, to the inside of the doors. One of the President Thomas S. Monson taught or a squeeze of a well-worn, wrinkled children saw a picture of Jesus on the us how to interact with our peers and hand. Such simple acts of charity bring inside of a [young woman’s] opened everyone we meet when he told the color into a life that sometimes is made locker door and said, ‘Look, Jesus is at young women of the Church, “My pre- up of long, lonely, gray days. I would our school!’ The student was moved cious young sisters, I plead with you invite each of you to be mindful of to tears as she bent down and gave to have the courage to refrain from your grandparents and the elderly. the child a hug. I thanked the young judging and criticizing those around Look around at church tomorrow and woman for the good example she was you, as well as the courage to make identify those who could use your to those around her. It is uplifting to certain everyone is included and feels shade of color added to their life. It know that there are so many youth loved and valued.” 7 doesn’t take much: greet them by that are trying to stand for truth and We can follow the example of the name, engage them in a short con- righteousness and do their part in good Samaritan and “change the world” versation, be available to assist them. inviting the Spirit into their lives, even of just one person by being benevolent.8 Could you open a door or offer to help though it is difficult at times with all I would like to invite each of you to do with their home or garden? What is a the noise and harshness in the world at least one Samaritan-like act this com- simple task to you at your young age around them. We have some wonder- ing week. It may require that you reach can be an overwhelming project for an ful youth in the Church.” beyond your usual friends or overcome older person. “Remember this: kind- I couldn’t agree more! Young your shyness. You may courageously ness begins with me.” women, you are changing the world choose to serve someone who doesn’t Sometimes being benevolent is by centering your life on Jesus Christ, treat you well. I promise that if you will most difficult in our own families. and you are “becoming what He extend yourself beyond what is easy Strong families require effort. “Be wants you to be.” 11 to do, you will feel so good inside that cheerful, helpful, and considerate of Thank you for your benevolent 120 lives; for including those who may be By Elaine S. Dalton different; for your kindness to your Young Women General President peers, the elderly, your family, and little children; for being neighbors to those who are lonely and those who have challenges and heartache. Through your benevolence, you Guardians of Virtue are “pointing others to [the Savior’s] light.” 12 Thank you for remembering “kindness begins with me.” Prepare now so that you may qualify to receive all the I know that President Thomas S. blessings that await you in the Lord’s holy temples. Monson is a prophet of God whose life has been a model of benevolence from which we can learn. Follow our prophet. Learn from his example and here are times when words moments when the world stood still listen to his words. I believe in the cannot express what we feel. I and all of heaven rejoiced. As the gospel of Jesus Christ, and I know that Tpray that the Spirit will witness to newly married couple looked into the through Joseph Smith the priesthood your hearts your divine identity and large mirrors in the room, the groom has been restored to the earth. your eternal responsibility. You are the was asked what he saw. He said, “All I know that our Savior lives and hope of Israel. You are elect and royal those who have gone before me.” loves each of us. He has given His life daughters of our loving Heavenly Then the couple looked into the large for all. I pray that we will center our Father. mirror on the opposite wall, and the lives on Jesus Christ and “follow in Last month I had the opportunity bride said with tears in her eyes, “I see His ways” by loving and serving one to attend the temple wedding of a all those who will follow after us.” She another.13 By so doing, I know that young woman I have known since she saw her future family—her posterity. we can make the world a better place, was born. As I sat in the sealing room, I know that she understood again in because “we believe in being . . . looking at the beautiful chandelier that moment how important it is to benevolent.” 14 I so testify in the name sparkling in the light of the temple, I believe in being chaste and virtuous. of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ remembered that day when I first held There is no more beautiful sight than NOTES her. Her mother had her dressed in a a couple, properly prepared, kneeling 1. See Articles of Faith 1:13. little white dress, and I thought she together at the altar of the temple. 2. See Oxford English Dictionary Online, 2nd ed. (1989), “benevolent,” oed.com. was one of the most beautiful babies Your years in Young Women will 3. “Kindness Begins with Me,” Children’s I had ever seen. Then this young prepare you for the temple. There you Songbook, 145. woman walked through the door, will receive the blessings to which you 4. “Guardians of Virtue,” Strength of Youth Media 2011: We Believe (DVD, 2010); once again dressed in white. She was are entitled as a precious daughter also available at lds.org/youth/video/ radiant and happy. As she entered the of God. Your Heavenly Father loves youth-theme-2011-we-believe. room, I wished with all my heart that you and wants you to be happy. The 5. Luke 10:25, 27, 29, 30, 33–35. 6. Jerry Earl Johnston, “The Unity in a Ward’s every young woman could envision way to do this is to “walk in the paths Uniqueness,” Mormon Times, Feb. 9, 2011, that moment and strive to always be of virtue” 1 and “cleave unto [your] M1, M12. worthy to make and keep sacred cov- covenants.” 2 7. Thomas S. Monson, “May You Have Courage,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2009, enants and receive the ordinances of Young women, in a world ever 125. the temple in preparation to enjoy the growing in moral pollution, tolerance 8. “Guardians of Virtue.” blessings of exaltation. of evil, exploitation of women, and 9. For the Strength of Youth (booklet, 2001), 10. As this couple knelt at the sacred distortion of roles, you must stand 10. See Mark 10:16. altar, they received promises beyond guard of yourself, your family, and all 11. “Guardians of Virtue.” mortal comprehension that will bless, those with whom you associate. You 12. “Guardians of Virtue.” 13. “Guardians of Virtue.” strengthen, and assist them on their must be guardians of virtue. 14. Articles of Faith 1:13. mortal journey. It was one of those What is virtue and what is a

May 2011 121 guardian? “Virtue is a pattern of the temple by walking from the Draper they were learning and feeling about thought and behavior based on high Utah Temple to the Salt Lake Temple, temples. moral standards. It includes chastity a total distance of 22 miles (35 km), They began their walk to the and [moral] purity.” 3 And what is a just as one of the pioneers, John Rowe temple early in the morning with guardian? A guardian is someone who Moyle, had done. Brother Moyle was a prayer. As they started out, I was protects, shields, and defends.4 Thus, a stonemason who was called by the impressed with their confidence. as a guardian of virtue, you will pro- prophet, Brigham Young, to work on They had prepared well, and they tect, shield, and defend moral purity the Salt Lake Temple. Each week he knew they were prepared. Their eyes because the power to create mortal walked the distance of 22 miles from were set on their goal. Each step they life is a sacred and exalted power and his home to the temple. One of his jobs took was symbolic of each of you as must be safeguarded until you are was to carve the words “Holiness to the you too are preparing now to enter married. Virtue is a requirement to Lord” on the east side of the Salt Lake the temple. Your personal training have the companionship and guid- Temple. It was not easy and he had has begun with your daily personal ance of the Holy Ghost. You will need many obstacles to overcome. At one prayers, your daily reading of the that guidance in order to successfully point, he was kicked in the leg by one Book of Mormon, and your working navigate the world in which you live. of his cows. Because it would not heal, on Personal Progress. Being virtuous is a requirement to he had to have this leg amputated. But As these young women continued enter the temple. And it is a require- that did not stop him from his commit- to walk, there were distractions along ment to be worthy to stand in the ment to the prophet and to work on the the course, but they stayed focused on Savior’s presence. You are preparing temple. He carved a wooden leg, and their goal. Some began to feel blisters now for that time. Personal Progress after many weeks he again walked the forming, and others felt knees starting and the standards found in For the 22-mile distance to the temple to do the to protest, but they kept going. For Strength of Youth are important. Living work he had committed to do.6 each of you, there are many distrac- the principles found in each booklet The young women in the Cedar tions, hurts, and obstacles along your will strengthen and help you become Hills Sixth Ward decided to walk that path to the temple, but you too are “more fit for the kingdom.” 5 same distance for an ancestor and also determined and keep going. The Last summer a group of young for someone who was their inspiration route these young women took was women from Alpine, Utah, decided that to remain worthy to enter the temple. mapped out by their leaders, who they would become “more fit for the They trained each week at Mutual, had walked and driven the course kingdom.” They determined to focus on and as they walked, they shared what and determined the safest and most 122 direct way to go. Again, your course is marked, and you can be assured that the Savior has not only walked the course but will again walk it with you—every step of the way. Along this journey to the temple there were fathers, mothers, family members, and priesthood leaders acting as guardians. Their job was to ensure that everyone was safe and protected from danger. They made sure each young woman stayed well hydrated and had enough nourish- ment to maintain her stamina. There and to cheer them on. One brother always do and things I would never were aid stations provided by their lifted his sister, who had large blisters do in a small tablet. It included things priesthood leaders, with places to rest on her feet, and carried her on his like obeying the Word of Wisdom, and to drink water. Young women, back the final distance to the temple. praying daily, paying my tithing, and your fathers, your mothers, your bish- As these incredible young women committing to never miss church. I ops, and so many others will be your reached their goal, tears were shed as made those decisions once, and then guardians as you walk your path to they touched the temple and made a in the moment of decision, I knew the temple. They will call out cautions silent commitment to always be wor- exactly what to do because I had and direct your course, and should thy to enter there. decided beforehand. When my high you become injured or hurt or get off The temple walk is a metaphor for school friends said, “Just one drink course, they will help you. your life. Parents and priesthood lead- won’t hurt,” I laughed and said, “I I was impressed that in the final ers stood guard along the route. They decided when I was 12 not to do that.” miles of their walk, brothers, other provided support and aid. Young Making decisions in advance will help young men, and friends came to sup- women guarded and encouraged you be guardians of virtue. I hope port these determined young women each other. Young men admired the each of you will write a list of things strength, commitment, and stamina of you will always do and things you will the young women. Brothers carried never do. Then live your list. sisters who had been injured. Families Being a guardian of virtue means rejoiced with their daughters as they you will always be modest not only ended their walk at the temple and in your dress but also in your speech, took them safely home. your actions, and your use of social In order to stay on the path to the media. Being a guardian of virtue temple, you must guard your personal means you will never text words or virtue and the virtue of others with images to young men that may cause whom you associate. Why? Mormon them to lose the Spirit, lose their taught in the Book of Mormon that priesthood power, or lose their virtue. virtue and chastity are “most dear and It means that you understand the precious above all things.” 7 importance of chastity because you What can each of you do to be a also understand that your body is a guardian of virtue? It starts with believ- temple and that the sacred powers of ing you can make a difference. It starts procreation are not to be tampered with making a commitment. When I with before marriage. You understand was a young woman, I learned that that you possess a sacred power some decisions need to be made only that involves the holy responsibility once. I wrote my list of things I would of bringing other spirits to earth to

May 2011 123 receive a body in which to house their Jesus Christ, lives and because of the eternal spirit. This power involves redeeming and enabling power of another sacred soul. You are a guard- His infinite Atonement, each of you ian of something “more precious than will be guided and guarded on your rubies.” 8 Be faithful. Be obedient. path to the temple and back into Their Prepare now so that you may qualify presence. I pray that each of you will to receive all the blessings that await be strengthened for that work which you in the Lord’s holy temples. for the kingdom” and that you prepare will be your finest hour. Live for that For the mothers listening tonight, now and gain the confidence that you beautiful day spoken of in the book of you are your daughters’ most impor- can do hard things. Revelation when you will “walk . . . in tant example of modesty and virtue— Young women, you are engaged in white: [because you] are worthy.” 12 In thank you. Never hesitate to teach a great work! And you are not alone! the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ them that they are royal daughters of As you guard your virtue and purity, God and that their value is not based you will be given strength. As you keep NOTES 1. Doctrine and Covenants 25:2. on their sensual appeal. And let them the covenants you have made, the Holy 2. Doctrine and Covenants 25:13. see your belief modeled correctly and Ghost will guide and guard you. You 3. Young Women Personal Progress (booklet, consistently in your own personal will be surrounded by heavenly hosts 2009), 70. 4. See thefreedictionary.com/guardian. 9 attitude and appearance. You are also of angels. President Thomas S. Monson 5. “More Holiness Give Me,” Hymns, no. 131. guardians of virtue. reminds us, “Remember that we do not 6. See Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Lift Where You This week I again climbed Ensign run alone in this great race of life; we Stand,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Nov. 2008, 55. 7. Moroni 9:9. 11 Peak. It was early in the morning, and are entitled to the help of the Lord.” 8. Proverbs 3:15. as I looked down from that mount at Prepare for that day when you will 9. See M. Russell Ballard, “Mothers and the mountain of the Lord’s house—the come to the Lord’s temple worthy and Daughters,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2010, 18–21. Salt Lake Temple—it was again crystal prepared to make sacred covenants. As 10. Articles of Faith 1:13. clear. The pioneers gave everything guardians of virtue, you will want to 11. Thomas S. Monson, “Great Expectations” they had to come to the tops of the seek the Savior in His holy house. (Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Jan. 11, 2009), http://lds.org/ mountains so that you and I could I testify that God lives and that library/display/0,4945,538-1-4773-1,00.html. have the blessings of the temple and His Beloved Son, our Redeemer, 12. Revelation 3:4. be sealed eternally as families. Forty years of sacrifice, painstaking work, São Paulo, Brazil and even walking from Alpine to the temple—why? Because, like you, they believed! They believed in a prophet. They believed he had seen and talked with God and His Beloved Son. They believed in the Savior. They believed in the Book of Mormon. That’s why they could say, “We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things.” 10 They endured many things and so can we. The thirteenth article of faith is what we believe because those are the very things that qualify us to be worthy to enter the temple and to one day stand in our Heavenly Father’s presence—proven, pure, and sealed. This will require that you be “more fit 124 By President Henry B. Eyring the world coming down on his own First Counselor in the First Presidency daughters. He saw that those worldly influences were drawing them away from the Lord’s pathway to happi- ness. In his day those influences were brought in part by the new transconti- A Living Testimony nental railroad connecting the isolated and protected Saints to the world. He may not have seen the techno- Testimony requires the nurturing by the prayer of faith, logical marvels of today where with a the hungering for the word of God in the scriptures, device you can hold in your hand you and the obedience to the truth. can choose to connect to countless ideas and people across the earth. But he saw the value for his daughters— and for you—in having their choices be made out of a powerful testimony y beloved young sisters, you of someone who invited you to come. of a living and loving God and His are the bright hope of the But even if you did not notice it, you felt plan of happiness. Lord’s Church. My purpose at least a faint echo of the invitation of Here is his prophetic and inspired M 1 tonight is to help you believe that is the Savior: “Come, follow me.” counsel for his daughters and for you so. If that belief can become a deep In the hour we have been together, always. testimony from God, it will shape your the Lord has deepened your belief in It is at the heart of my message daily and hourly choices. And then Him and strengthened your testimony. tonight. He said in a room in his home from what might appear to you to be You have heard more than words and less than a mile from where this mes- small choices, the Lord will lead you music. You have felt the witness of the sage now goes out to daughters of God to the happiness you want. Through Spirit to your heart that there are living in nations across the world: “There is your choices He will be able to bless prophets on the earth in the Lord’s true need for the young daughters of Israel countless others. Church and that the path to happiness to get a living testimony of the truth.” 2 Your choice to be with us tonight lies within His kingdom. Your testimony He then created an association of is an example of choices that matter. has grown that this is the only true and young women that has become what More than a million young women, living Church on the earth today. we now call in the Lord’s Church mothers, and leaders were invited. Of Now, we did not all feel exactly the “Young Women.” You have felt tonight all the other things you could have same things. For some it was a witness some of the wonderful effect of his chosen to do, you chose to be with us. of the Spirit that Thomas S. Monson choice made in that Sunday evening You did that because of your beliefs. is a prophet of God. For others it was meeting in the parlor of his home. You are a believer in the gospel of that honesty, virtue, and doing good More than 100 years later, daugh- Jesus Christ. You believe enough to to all men really are attributes of the ters of Israel across the world have come here to hear His servants and Savior. And with that came a greater that desire for a living testimony of the have enough faith to hope that some- desire be like Him. truth for themselves. Now, for the rest thing you will hear or feel will move All of you have a desire for your of your lives, you will need that living you toward a better life. You felt in testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and growing testimony to fortify you your heart that following Jesus Christ to be strengthened. President Brigham and lead your path to eternal life. And was the way to greater happiness. Young could see your need many years with it you will become the trans- Now, you may not have recognized ago. He was a prophet of God, and mitters of the Light of Christ to your that as a conscious choice of any great with prophetic foresight 142 years ago, brothers and sisters across the world importance. You may have felt drawn to he saw you and your needs. He was a and across generations. be with us by friends or family. You may loving father and a living prophet. You know from your own expe- have simply responded to the kindness He could see the influence of rience what a testimony is. President

May 2011 125 taught that a he did, but I did feel the warmth and and Atonement made possible for us. testimony “is a convincing knowledge wonder of a testimony. So a seed of faith is already planted given by revelation to [a person] who Testimony will come to you in in your heart. You may even have felt humbly seeks the truth.” He said of pieces as parts of the whole truth of some of the expansion of your heart testimony and the Holy Ghost, who the gospel of Jesus Christ are con- promised in Alma. I did. brings that revelation, “Its convincing firmed. For instance, as you read and But, like a growing plant, it must power is so great that there can be no ponder the Book of Mormon, verses be nurtured or it will wither. Frequent doubt left in the mind when the Spirit you have read before will appear new and heartfelt prayers of faith are crucial has spoken. It is the only way that a to you and bring new ideas. Your and needed nutrients. Obedience to person can truly know that Jesus is the testimony will grow in breadth and in the truth you have received will keep Christ and that his gospel is true.” 3 depth as the Holy Ghost confirms that the testimony alive and strengthen it. You have felt that inspiration they are true. Your living testimony Obedience to the commandments is for yourselves. It may have been to will expand as you study, pray, and part of the nourishment you must pro- confirm one part of the gospel, as it ponder in the scriptures. vide for your testimony. was for me tonight. When I heard the The best description for me of how You remember the promise of the words from the thirteenth article of to gain and keep this living testimony Savior: “If any man will do his will, he faith about “being honest, true, chaste, has already been referred to. It is in shall know of the doctrine, whether [and] benevolent,” it was for me as the 32nd chapter of Alma in the Book it be of God, or whether I speak of if the Lord spoke them. I felt again of Mormon. You may have read it myself.” 5 that those are His attributes. I felt that many times. I find new light in it every That has worked for me, as it will Joseph Smith was His prophet. So for time I read it. Let’s review the lesson it for you. One of the doctrines of the me those were not just words. teaches once again tonight. gospel I was taught when I was young In my mind I saw the dusty roads of We are taught in those inspired is that the greatest of all the gifts of Judea and the Garden of Gethsemane. passages to begin our quest for tes- God is eternal life.6 I learned that part In my heart I felt at least something of timony with “a particle of faith” and of eternal life is to live together in love what it would have been like to kneel with desire for it to grow.4 Tonight in families forever. as Joseph did before the Father and the you have felt faith and that desire as From the first time that I heard Son in a grove of trees in New York. I you listened to stirring talks of the those truths and they were con- couldn’t see in my mind a light above Savior’s kindness, His honesty, and firmed to my heart, I felt obligated to the brightness of the sun at noonday as of the purity His commandments make every choice I could to avoid 126 contention and seek peace in my “Behold, I would exhort you that take no thought for its nourishment, family and in my home. when ye shall read these things, if it behold it will not get any root; and Now, only after this life can I enjoy be wisdom in God that ye should read when the heat of the sun cometh and the fulness of that greatest of all bless- them, that ye would remember how scorcheth it, because it hath no root it ings, eternal life. But amidst the chal- merciful the Lord hath been unto the withers away, and ye pluck it up and lenges of this life, I have been given children of men, from the creation of cast it out. at least glimpses of what my family in Adam even down until the time that “Now, this is not because the seed heaven can be like. From those experi- ye shall receive these things, and pon- was not good, neither is it because ences my testimony of the reality of the der it in your hearts. the fruit thereof would not be desir- sealing power exercised in temples has “And when ye shall receive these able; but it is because your ground grown and been strengthened. things, I would exhort you that ye is barren, and ye will not nourish the Watching my two daughters be would ask God, the Eternal Father, tree, therefore ye cannot have the fruit baptized in the temple for their in the name of Christ, if these things thereof.” 10 ancestors has drawn my heart to them are not true; and if ye shall ask with a Feasting on the word of God, and to those ancestors whose names sincere heart, with real intent, having heartfelt prayer, and obedience to we found. The promise of Elijah that faith in Christ, he will manifest the the Lord’s commandments must be hearts would be turned to each other truth of it unto you, by the power of applied evenly and continually for in families has been granted to us.7 the Holy Ghost. your testimony to grow and prosper. So faith for me has become certain “And by the power of the Holy All of us at times have circumstances knowledge, as we are promised in the Ghost ye may know the truth of all beyond our control that interrupt our book of Alma. things.” 9 pattern of scripture study. There may I have experienced at least some I hope that you all have proved that be periods of time when we choose of the joy which my ancestors felt promise for yourself or that you will for some reason not to pray. There when the Savior came into the spirit do it soon. The answer may not come world after His mortal ministry. Here in a single and powerful spiritual is the description in the Doctrine and experience. For me it came quietly at Covenants: first. But it comes ever more forcefully “And the saints rejoiced in their each time I have read and prayed over redemption, and bowed the knee and the Book of Mormon. acknowledged the Son of God as their I do not depend on what has hap- Redeemer and Deliverer from death pened in the past. To keep my living and the chains of hell. testimony of the Book of Mormon “Their countenances shone, and secure, I receive the promise of the radiance from the presence of the Moroni often. I don’t take that blessing Lord rested upon them, and they sang of a testimony for granted as a perpet- praises unto his holy name.” 8 ual entitlement. My feeling of their joy came from Testimony requires the nurturing by acting on my testimony that the Lord’s the prayer of faith, the hungering for promise of eternal life is real. That the word of God in the scriptures, and testimony was strengthened by my the obedience to the truth we have choosing to act upon it, as the Savior received. There is danger in neglecting promised that it would be. prayer. There is danger to our testi- He has also taught us that, in addition mony in only casual study and reading to choosing to be obedient, we must of the scriptures. They are necessary ask in prayer for testimony of truth. The nutrients for our testimony. Lord taught that to us in His command You remember the warning from to pray about the Book of Mormon. He Alma: said through His prophet Moroni: “But if ye neglect the tree, and

May 2011 127 may be commandments that we “Then . . . ye shall reap the rewards your testimony grows and you choose choose for a time to ignore. of your faith, and your diligence, and to nurture it. Here is the sure promise But you will not have your desire patience, and long-suffering, waiting from the Doctrine and Covenants: for a living testimony granted if you for the tree to bring forth fruit unto “That which is of God is light; and he forget the warning and the promise you.” 11 that receiveth light, and continueth in in Alma: The words in that scripture “look- God, receiveth more light; and that “And thus, if ye will not nourish the ing forward to the fruit thereof” light groweth brighter and brighter word, looking forward with an eye of guided the wise teaching you received until the perfect day.” 12 faith to the fruit thereof, ye can never this evening. That is why your eyes You will be a light to the world as pluck of the fruit of the tree of life. were pointed toward a future day in you share your testimony with others. “But if ye will nourish the word, a temple sealing room. That is why You will reflect to others the Light of yea, nourish the tree as it beginneth you were helped to visualize tonight Christ in your life. The Lord will find to grow, by your faith with great the seemingly endless chain of light ways for that light to touch those you diligence, and with patience, looking reflected in facing mirrors on the walls love. And through the combined faith forward to the fruit thereof, it shall of a sealing room, where you could be and testimony of His daughters, God take root; and behold it shall be a tree married in a temple of God. will touch the lives of millions in His springing up unto everlasting life. If you can look forward to such kingdom and across the world with “And because of your diligence and a day with enough desire born of His light. your faith and your patience with the testimony, you will be strengthened In your testimony and your choices word in nourishing it, that it may take to resist the temptations of the world. lies the hope of the Church and of root in you, behold, by and by ye shall Each time you choose to try to live the generations who will follow your pluck the fruit thereof, which is most more like the Savior, you will have example of hearing and accepting the precious, which is sweet above all that your testimony strengthened. You will invitation of the Lord: “Come, follow is sweet, and which is white above all come in time to know for yourself that me.” The Lord knows and loves you. that is white, yea, and pure above all He is the Light of the World. I leave you my love and my testi- that is pure; and ye shall feast upon You will come to feel light grow- mony. You are daughters of a loving this fruit even until ye are filled, that ing in your life. It will not come and living Father in Heaven. I know ye hunger not, neither shall ye thirst. without effort. But it will come as that His resurrected Son, Jesus Christ, is the Savior and the Light of the St. Catherine, Jamaica World. I testify that the Holy Ghost has sent messages to you tonight con- firming truth to your heart. President Thomas S. Monson is the living prophet of God. I so testify in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ◼ NOTES 1. Luke 18:22. 2. Brigham Young, in A Century of Sisterhood: Chronological Collage, 1869–1969 (1969), 8. 3. Joseph Fielding Smith, Answers to Gospel Questions, comp. Joseph Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. (1957–66), 3:31. 4. See Alma 32:27. 5. John 7:17. 6. See Doctrine and Covenants 14:7. 7. See Malachi 4:5–6; Joseph Smith—History 1:38–39. 8. Doctrine and Covenants 138:23–24. 9. Moroni 10:3–5. 10. Alma 32:38–39. 11. Alma 32:40–43. 12. Doctrine and Covenants 50:24.

128 Conference Story Index The following is a list of selected experiences from general conference addresses for use in personal study, family home evening, and other teaching. The number refers to the first page of the talk. SPEAKER STORY

Jean A. Stevens (10) Children show example by paying tithing. Liam listens to his father’s voice during medical treatment.

Elder Walter F. González (13) Reporter wonders if good treatment of spouses is truth or fiction.

Elder Kent F. Richards (15) Young girl sees angels around children in a hospital.

Elder Quentin L. Cook (18) Purse contents reflect a young woman’s gospel living. Sister in Tonga suggests a way to help young adult men.

President Henry B. Eyring (22) Community gives service after the Teton Dam breaks.

President Boyd K. Packer (30) Stake president counsels man to “leave it alone” after the death of his wife.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks (42) Captain Ray Cox forgoes sleep to keep soldiers safe. Aron Ralston summons courage to save his life.

Elder M. Russell Ballard (46) Gold prospector learns to value flakes of gold.

Elder Neil L. Andersen (49) Sidney Going chooses a mission over rugby.

Larry M. Gibson (55) Deacons quorum president learns his responsibilities.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (58) Man doesn’t realize what privileges are included on a cruise ship.

President Henry B. Eyring (62) Quorum searches for member lost in the woods. Henry B. Eyring visits faithful high priest.

President Thomas S. Monson (66) Thomas S. Monson invites couple to witness a sealing.

Elder Paul V. Johnson (78) Young woman is converted during long illness.

Bishop H. David Burton (81) Robert Taylor Burton helps rescue a handcart company.

Silvia H. Allred (84) Young mother is served by her visiting teacher.

President Thomas S. Monson (90) Brazilian Saints travel long distances from Manaus to the temple. Mou Tham family sacrifices to go to the temple. Thomas S. Monson participates in groundbreaking for a temple in Rome, Italy.

Elder Richard G. Scott (94) Richard G. Scott is urged to play with children instead of fixing the washer. Jeanene Scott saves love notes. Richard G. Scott cares for young son with heart problem.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson (97) Hugh B. Brown prunes a currant bush and then is figuratively pruned himself.

Elder Carl B. Pratt (101) Whetten family pays tithing and receives blessings.

Elder C. Scott Grow (108) C. Scott Grow’s brother makes poor choices but then repents.

Ann M. Dibb (115) Kristi sets an example that Jenn remembers when she seeks for the truth.

Mary N. Cook (118) Child sees a picture of Jesus in a school locker. Young woman chooses not to attend a questionable movie.

Elaine S. Dalton (121) Young Women walk from Draper, Utah, to the Salt Lake Temple.

May 2011 129 THEY SPOKE TO US

• When Adam and Eve lived on earth, one of the ways they wor- Making Conference shipped Heavenly Father was by sacrificing animals. Elder L. Tom Perry taught that the Savior introduced the Part of Our Lives sacrament to His disciples on the Sabbath day as a new form of worship. Consider using some of these activities and questions as a We continue to worship by partak- ing of the sacrament on the Sabbath. starting point for family discussion or personal pondering Review Elder Perry’s talk (page 6) as as you make the teachings of general conference a part of a family to learn about proper Sunday your life. dress and other ways to honor the sacrament and the Sabbath. • Elder D. Todd Christofferson taught that Jesus Christ instructed us ou can find all general conference Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Winnipeg, that we ought to strive to be like Him talks online at conference.lds.org. Manitoba, Canada; and the temple and our Heavenly Father (page 97). Y Note: The page numbers listed nearest your home. Read or retell some Our Heavenly Father sometimes “chas- below indicate the first page of the talk of the stories President Monson told of tens” His children to help us become mentioned. faithful members who sacrificed greatly more like Him. Discuss what it means to attend the temple (page 90). Make For Children goals to attend the temple as soon as • President Thomas S. Monson you can, or discuss ways to remain announced that the Church will build worthy to enter the temple. three new temples, bringing the total number of temples operating, under construction, or announced to 160. Look at a map Ljubljana, Slovenia to find Meridian, Idaho, USA;

130 about the “cafeteria approach” to obedience (page 34). Discuss with your family, class, or quo- rum what this means and Coatzacoalcos, Mexico why it doesn’t work. • Elder M. Russell Ballard to chasten. Read or retell the story described the pure love of Christ missed out on the many activities and of the overgrown currant bush. Talk as an active love (page 46) that is good food offered on his cruise ship about how having a setback or failure shown in simple acts of kindness because he didn’t realize all of these can actually help us grow stronger and service. Plan a way your class or things were included in the price of and be more fruitful. quorum can show love to someone his ticket. Discuss with family mem- • Elder Richard J. Maynes taught in your ward, branch, or community bers who hold the priesthood ways that families can be like ropes (page and then carry out your plan. they can live up to their “privileges 37). A rope has many strands that • Elder Quentin L. Cook told the when it comes to the sacred power, are weak on their own but are strong story of a purse found after a youth gifts, and blessings that are [their] when woven together. Similarly, dance (page 18). What the leaders opportunity and right as bearers of when all the members of a family do found inside the purse spoke vol- God’s priesthood.” what is right and help one another, umes about the young woman who • President Boyd K. Packer taught each person in the family is strength- owned it. What do the contents of about the power of forgiveness (page ened and can do more than he or she your purse, wallet, or schoolbag say 30). Are there people you need to could do alone. Give each member of about you, and what changes might forgive, or are there troubling experi- your family a piece of string or yarn. you want to make in the things you ences you need to “leave . . . alone”? Talk about ways each family member keep close to you? Seek the Lord’s help in finding peace serves and strengthens other family • Elder Lynn G. Robbins talked and the power to forgive. members. Then see how strong the about becoming more like the Savior • Elder Richard G. Scott told pieces of string or yarn are when they (page 103). Think about what it of how he and his wife, Jeanene, are put together. means to be like Jesus Christ rather showed affection by writing notes than just doing what He asks. Then to each other (page 94). Consider think about what changes you can writing a note saying how much you For Youth make in your life to become more love and appreciate your spouse. Put • Is your class or quorum as like the Savior. it where your spouse will find it. unified as possible? After review- • Elder David A. Bednar quoted ing President Henry B. Eyring’s talk President Joseph F. Smith’s experience about unity (page 62), make a list of For Adults with gaining a testimony (page 87). what you can do to bring your group • President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Review this story and think about closer together. (page 58) shared a story about a man what experiences have influenced • Elder Russell M. Nelson talked who lived below his privileges as he your testimony. ◼

May 2011 131 General Auxiliary Presidencies

RELIEF SOCIETY

Teachings for Our Time

Silvia H. Allred Julie B. Beck Barbara Thompson First Counselor President Second Counselor elchizedek You may be tempted to Priesthood and prepare the lesson using YOUNG WOMEN MRelief Society les- other materials, but the 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. Mary N. Cook Elaine S. Dalton Ann M. Dibb First Counselor President Second Counselor Stake and district presi- Review the talk(s), look- dents may choose which ing for principles and doc- PRIMARY talks should be used, trines that meet the needs or they may assign this of class members. Also look responsibility to bishops for stories, scripture refer- and branch presidents. ences, and statements from Leaders should stress the the talk(s) that will help you value of Melchizedek teach these truths. Priesthood brethren and Make an outline of how Relief Society sisters study- to teach the principles and Jean A. Stevens Rosemary M. Wixom Cheryl A. Esplin ing the same talks on the doctrines. Your outline First Counselor President Second Counselor same Sundays. should include questions Those attending fourth- that help class members: YOUNG MEN Sunday lessons are encour- aged to study and bring • Look for principles and to class the latest general doctrines in the talk(s). conference issue of the • Think about their magazine. meaning. • Share understanding, Suggestions for Preparing ideas, experiences, and a Lesson from Talks testimonies. Larry M. Gibson David L. Beck Adrián Ochoa Pray that the Holy Spirit • Apply these principles First Counselor President Second Counselor will be with you as you and doctrines in their SUNDAY SCHOOL study and teach the talk(s). lives. ◼

MONTHS LESSONS FOURTH-SUNDAY LESSON TAUGHT MATERIALS May 2011– Talks published in the May 2011 October 2011 ­Liahona and ­Ensign*

November 2011– Talks published in the November 2011 David M. McConkie Russell T. Osguthorpe Matthew O. Richardson April 2012 ­Liahona and ­Ensign* First Counselor President Second Counselor * These talks are available (in many languages) at conference.lds​ ​.org.

132 NEWS OF THE CHURCH

Church Leaders Celebrate Welfare, Announce Temples

ore than 100,000 people attended the five sessions Mof the 181st Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, while millions more watched or listened via TV, radio, sat- ellite, and Internet broadcasts. Members around the world participated in the conference in 93 languages. Audio, video, and text of the broadcast are already online in many languages at conference.lds.org and will be made available on DVD Above: A young man harvests grapes at the Madera, California, USA, Church-owned and CD. vineyard, which produces raisins for the Church welfare system. Lower left: A family President Thomas S. Monson attends a satellite broadcast of general conference in Coimbra, Portugal. opened the conference by announcing the locations of three new temples— Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Meridian, Idaho, USA; and Winnipeg, Manitoba, President Monson also emphasized On Saturday, President Henry B. Canada—which will bring the number the importance of missionary work, Eyring, First Counselor in the First of temples announced or under con- saying, “Missionary work is the life- Presidency, announced that to com- struction to 26. Currently, 134 temples blood of the kingdom.” Some 52,000 memorate the 75th anniversary of the are in operation. missionaries currently serve in 340 welfare program, members worldwide missions throughout the world. are invited to participate in a day of On Saturday afternoon, 10 new service activity. The day of service General Authorities and 41 Area should be held on a ward or stake Seventies were sustained, while 34 level sometime during the year. Local Area Seventies were released. In leaders should decide the details addition, Elder Don R. Clarke of the of each project, and members are Second Quorum of the Seventy was encouraged to invite others to partici- called to serve in the First Quorum of pate as appropriate. the Seventy. The 2010 Statistical Report President Monson closed the showed that Church membership now conference with his Easter testimony tops 14 million. of Christ: “At the last moment, [ Jesus A number of talks given during Christ] could have turned back. But He the two-day conference centered on did not. He passed beneath all things the theme of Church welfare and the that He might save all things. In doing Church’s unique welfare program— so, He gave us life beyond this mortal celebrating its 75th year in 2011. existence.” ◼

May 2011 133 Elder José L. Elder Ian S. Alonso Ardern Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

ven before he joined the Church, José Luis Alonso henever there’s a phone call or knock at the door, Trejo had a testimony of the power of prayer. “When I the first words out of Elder Ian Sidney Ardern’s Ewas 11 years old,” he says, “I nearly died. The doctors Wmouth are typically “How can I help you?” had given up on me—I overheard them speaking. So I Born to Harry and Gwladys McVicar Wiltshire in Te prayed and prayed to the Lord, and He healed me. Aroha, New Zealand, in February 1954, Elder Ardern “When I later heard the story of Joseph Smith and recounted that it is often the seemingly small acts of learned how a boy only 14 years old spoke with God, service that make the greatest difference in the lives of the I knew it was true. I knew that God could answer our giver and the receiver. “Service is not always convenient, prayers, that He knows us.” but it always blesses your life,” says Elder Ardern. That same feeling of comfort guided Elder Alonso as Elder and Sister Ardern met while attending the Church he studied the Book of Mormon. “Because of prayer and College of New Zealand and married in the Hamilton this book, I know with certainty that Jesus is the Christ,” New Zealand Temple on January 17, 1976. Their four he says. children grew up in a home where a loving concern for Elder Alonso was born in , Mexico, in one another and a need to understand and live gospel November 1958 to Luis and Luz Alonso. As a teenager he principles were priorities. “It’s a blessing to see these same moved to the city of Cuautla, Mexico, where he joined the priorities in the homes of our married children,” says Elder Church. Attending Mutual brought him into contact with Ardern. strong youth who fellowshipped him and provided him a The Lord expects much of His children, and He pro- second home. It was also while attending Mutual that he vides a way for those expectations to be met. “I am most met Rebecca Salazar, the woman who would later become grateful to all those who have helped our family to follow his wife. the Lord,” Elder Ardern says. When Elder Alonso turned 19, he served a full-time Following the teachings of the prophets in the home mission in the Mexico Hermosillo Mission. Following has been a priority for the Ardern family. Daily scripture his mission, Elder Alonso and Rebecca were married on study became a habit because the young children made February 24, 1981, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They are sure it was held so they could take turns placing a red the parents of two children. sticker on the calendar to show the reading that day was In addition to serving as an institute director for the done. “By small and simple things good habits can be Church Educational System, Elder Alonso has a medical formed,” says Sister Ardern. degree in pediatric development and worked as a homeo- Prior to his call to the First Quorum of the Seventy, pathic physician and surgeon. His career demonstrates Elder Ardern seved as a missionary in France and a long-held desire to serve and bless others—just as the Belgium, stake Young Men president, high councilor, Lord blessed him when he was sick as a child. “Service to bishop’s counselor, bishop, stake president’s counselor, others builds unity and brotherhood,” he says, “and invites president of the Fiji Suva Mission, and Area Seventy. the power of the Lord into our lives.” Elder Ardern received bachelor’s and master’s degrees Prior to his call to the First Quorum of the Seventy, in education from the University of Waikato in New Elder Alonso served as a bishop, stake mission president, Zealand. His professional career includes many Church stake president, mission president’s counselor, president Educational System positions, including teacher, direc- of the Mexico Tijuana Mission, and Area Seventy. ◼ tor, seminary coordinator in New Zealand, principal of the Church College of New Zealand, and Pacific Area Director. ◼

134 Elder Carl B. Elder LeGrand R. Cook Curtis Jr. Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

s a young missionary in the Language Training lder LeGrand Raine Curtis Jr. knows that “the Lord Mission (the predecessor to the Missionary Training requireth the heart and a willing mind” (D&C 64:34). A Center) preparing to go to Hamburg, Germany, E “He loves serving in the Church, and he does it Carl Bert Cook struggled to learn German. While he tried with hard work and a willing attitude,” says his wife, Jane to grasp basic vocabulary, members of his district quickly Cowan Curtis, whom he married in the Salt Lake Temple moved on to more complex concepts. on January 4, 1974. “Service is his greatest wish and Frustrated by his lack of progress, young Elder Cook desire.” sought divine help through a priesthood blessing and Elder Curtis was born in August 1952, in Ogden, Utah, prayer. After one particularly heartfelt prayer, Elder Cook USA, to LeGrand R. and Patricia Glade Curtis. His father remembers receiving a specific answer: the Lord hadn’t later became a member of the Second Quorum of the called him to master the German language but to serve Seventy (1990–95). with all of his heart, mind, and strength. Before his call to the First Quorum of the Seventy, “I immediately thought, ‘I can do that,’” says Elder Elder Curtis Jr. served in the Italy North Mission and as Cook, recently called as a member of the First Quorum of bishop, high councilor, stake president, president of the the Seventy. “‘I can serve with all of my heart, mind, and Italy Padova Mission, and Area Seventy. He was serving strength.’ I stood up and felt a sense of relief. All of a sud- as a member of the Fifth Quorum of the Seventy in the den, my measuring stick changed from how my compan- Utah Salt Lake City Area at the time of his call to the First ion and district members were doing to how the Lord felt Quorum. that I was doing.” Elder Curtis graduated from Although Elder Cook says that he didn’t necessarily with a degree in economics and earned his juris doctorate learn the language more quickly after that experience, from the University of Michigan. At the time of his call, he no longer felt his previous concerns because he knew he was working as an attorney and partner at a law firm. that he was doing what the Lord wanted him to do. That In addition to attending school and working, Elder Curtis lesson, he says, has been important in all of the callings and his wife have raised five children. he’s held since, including bishop, counselor in a stake After serving as an Area Seventy from 2004 to 2011, presidency, stake president, president of the New Zealand Elder Curtis says he has appreciated the opportunity to Auckland Mission, Area Seventy, and now in his current work with the General Authorities. “I have been blessed assignment. to work with some exceptional leaders in the Church,” he Elder Cook earned a bachelor’s degree in business says. “Watching them and learning from them has been a marketing from Weber State College and a master’s degree great privilege.” in business administration from Utah State University. He Sister Curtis says Elder Curtis always has had willing spent his career working in real estate development. hands and a willing heart. “His attitude was always, ‘I will Elder Cook was born in Ogden, Utah, USA, in October do,’” she says. 1957 to Ramona Cook Barker and the late Bert E. Cook. Doctrine and Covenants 64:34 ends with these words: He married Lynette Hansen on December 14, 1979, in “The willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land the . They are the parents of five of Zion in these last days.” Brother and Sister Curtis say children. ◼ they and their children and grandchildren have been exceptionally blessed for serving the Lord. ◼

May 2011 135 Elder Elder Kazuhiko W. Christopher Yamashita Waddell Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

n unwritten guiding principle in Elder Wayne ince becoming a young bishop in Fukuoka, Japan, Christopher Waddell’s family has always been, many years ago, Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita has A “Trust in the Lord.” Slearned from the good examples and attitudes of his “As you trust in the Lord, you don’t have to worry senior leaders. about major changes,” Elder Waddell says of life’s unex- Soon after Elder Yamashita married his wife, Tazuko pected twists and turns. “We know He has our best inter- Tashiro, they moved from Tokyo to Fukuoka, where ests at heart, and we will be blessed.” Elder Yamashita was called as a bishop when he was in Elder Waddell was born in June 1959 in Manhattan his late 20s. Beach, California, USA, and is the son of Wayne and Joann “That was hard for me and my family,” Elder Yamashita Waddell. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from says. “We had three young children at the time and were San Diego State University, where he also played volley- new to the area—but it was also a very good teaching and ball. He has worked in many positions in a global invest- learning experience for me, and my testimony and faith ment services firm. got stronger. Elder Waddell married Carol Stansel on June 7, 1984, “Of course I had hard times, because my family was in the California Temple. They have four young and I didn’t have much experience as a Church children. Unity is paramount in the Waddell family. They leader beforehand,” Elder Yamashita says. “My senior attribute that unity to striving to follow the Savior’s gospel leaders were good examples and taught me many lessons in their home. Family activities also have been impor- through their attitude and behavior.” tant—spending time together at beaches near their home Sister Yamashita says she has seen her husband receive and attending sporting events as a family. many callings and become a great father and great spir- Prior to his call to the First Quorum of the Seventy, itual leader through the challenges those callings pre- Elder Waddell served as a full-time missionary in Spain, sented. Over time she has seen him change and become a bishop, high councilor, mission president’s counselor, kinder, more loving father and husband. The family enjoys stake president, president of the Barcelona Spain Mission, spending time together, including taking long road trips and Area Seventy. every year. Elder Waddell says that one experience has built upon Elder Yamashita, born in September 1953, is the son another and each continues to add to the “treasure of tes- of Kiyoshi and Sadae Yamashita. He grew up in Tokyo, timony” that he relies on to face challenges in life. Japan, where he found the Church in 1971 through Expo When speaking of preparation for his new calling, 70, the World’s Fair. Elder Waddell speaks of the temple. Elder Yamashita received a bachelor’s degree in edu- “What prepared us for this? When we went to the cation from Saitama University and a master’s degree in temple for the first time and made covenants, we pledged sport science from Tsukuba University. He also studied to be willing to do whatever it was the Lord asked us, the philosophy of physical education at Brigham Young even if it wasn’t convenient,” he says. “Going to the University. Elder Yamashita has been an instructor and temple, serving a mission, making covenants, and then professor at various universities and served in numerous seeing His hand and how He directs the work—that is all scientific, community, and sports organizations. you need. We aren’t doing anything unique; we are keep- Elder Yamashita and his wife were married on March 29, ing covenants we’ve made, just like everyone else.” ◼ 1980, and sealed in December 1980, after the completion of the Tokyo Japan Temple. They have six children. Prior to his call to the First Quorum of the Seventy, Elder Yamashita served as a bishop, high councilor, stake mission president, stake president, and Area Seventy. ◼

136 Elder Randall K. Elder J. Devn Bennett Cornish Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

t was at the height of his career as an orthodontist that lder John Devn Cornish knows that every member Randall Kay Bennett and his wife, Shelley, felt “a distinct and every calling in the Church is important. Iimpression” to prepare to serve missions. This meant that E “It is important to remember when considering they would need to sell their home right away. callings in the Church that it doesn’t matter where we sit The reason for the prompting didn’t become immedi- on the plane—it matters that we’re on the plane,” he says. ately apparent—it took three years for their home to sell, “Being a part of the work matters eternally. Which posi- a process that “took a lot of patience” and required that tion we occupy is of very little importance.” they “show the Lord that we were really committed,” Elder From his call to serve in the Guatemala–El Salvador Bennett says. “We continued to trust in the Lord and tried Mission to his most recent call to the Second Quorum of to stay close to Him through frequent temple attendance, the Seventy, Elder Cornish has been engaged in fulfilling daily scripture study, prayer, fasting, and service to others.” his Church callings, including ward Young Men presi- Shortly after their home finally sold, Elder Bennett was dent, elders quorum president, ward executive secretary, called to serve at the Provo Missionary Training Center high priests group leader, high councilor, bishop, stake and then as president of the Russia Samara Mission. president, president of the Dominican Republic Santiago “It was wonderful—and very humbling—to know that Mission, and Area Seventy. the Lord had been mindful of us and had been preparing Born in April 1951 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, to us,” Elder Bennett said. “We have come to know that the George and Naomi Cornish, Elder Cornish grew up in Lord is aware of the thoughts of our minds and the feel- Utah, Georgia, and Virginia, USA, before returning to Utah ings of our hearts. We have learned to trust that He knows for college. better than we do, that He knows more than we do, and While living in Provo, he met Elaine Simmons at a that He loves us.” young single adult activity. They married in the Manti Utah In addition to his callings as a member of the Second Temple in August 1973. Quorum of the Seventy and a mission president, Elder While raising six children with his wife, Elder Cornish Bennett has served as president and counselor in a Provo served in the United States Air Force Medical Corp, earned Missionary Training Center branch, member of a stake bachelor’s and medical degrees from Johns Hopkins high council, counselor in a bishopric, ward Young Men University, and pursued his residency in pediatrics at president, various other callings, and as a missionary in Harvard Medical School—Boston Children’s Hospital. the France Paris and France Toulouse Missions. Education and work in Idaho, Texas, California, and Elder Bennett earned a doctor of dental surgery degree Georgia, USA, moved the family a lot over the years, but from the University of Alberta (Canada) and a master’s wherever they were, Elder and Sister Cornish say, they degree in orthodontics from Loma Linda University in loved serving in the Church. Southern California, USA. “The work is growing throughout the world, and it is a Elder Bennett was born in June 1955 in Magrath, great blessing to be able to help serve the Lord’s children Alberta, Canada. His parents are Donald Kay Bennett wherever they may be,” Elder Cornish says. and Anne Darlene Long. He married Shelley Dianne This call to the Seventy, “like every calling in the Watchman on April 23, 1977, in the Cardston Alberta Church, will be another opportunity to be a part of the Temple. They are the parents of four children. ◼ Lord’s work,” Elder Cornish says. “We are grateful for that privilege.” ◼

May 2011 137 Elder O. Vincent Elder Larry Y. Haleck Wilson Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

rom a young age Elder Otto Vincent Haleck paid tith- alancing the demands of work, Church, and family ing, fasted, and studied scriptures—and then he met responsibilities has been a challenge for Elder Larry Fthe missionaries and was baptized. BYoung Wilson, but he has made sure family members Elder Haleck’s mother was a member of the Church know how important they are to him. but hadn’t attended in years. His father wasn’t a member “The most formative experience I have had is being a of the Church. Yet the family paid tithing, fasted weekly, husband and a father,” Elder Wilson says. “I rarely missed read the Bible daily, and gave of what they had to those in a child’s performance in an athletic, musical, or other need. Elder Haleck comes from a legacy of faith. event. I read them bedtime stories and said prayers with Elder Haleck was born in January 1949 in American them before tucking them into bed at night. It is so impor- Samoa. His parents, Otto and Dorothy Haleck, sent him to tant to be there.” school in California, USA. At the age of 17, he noticed that Elder Wilson knows well the demands placed on one some friends in student government were different from who has leadership roles in all aspects of life. He was other students. “They invited me to Mutual, and the rest is born in December 1949 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, to history,” Elder Haleck says. George and Ida Wilson and grew up in Pocatello, Idaho, Elder Haleck received a bachelor’s degree in advertis- USA. He received a bachelor’s degree in English and ing and marketing from Brigham Young University. He American literature from Harvard University and later owns a number of businesses in American Samoa and a master’s degree in business administration from the is involved in philanthropic work. Elder Haleck and his Stanford Graduate School of Business. wife, Peggy Ann Cameron, were married on June 29, 1972, Elder Wilson has spent his career as a consultant and in the Provo Utah Temple. They are the parents of three executive in the health care industry. Although his career children. was demanding, Elder Wilson made sure it never took Eventually Elder Haleck’s whole family found the over his life. gospel. Elder Haleck had the privilege of baptizing his “You have to establish boundaries around your work 80-year-old father and seeing his mother return to Church life,” he says. “Otherwise, it will swallow everything else. activity after 50 years of marriage. Practically speaking, the areas of work, church, and family Prior to his call to the Second Quorum of the Seventy, time have to take turns being put on hold. Pray to be Elder Haleck served as a full-time missionary in the Samoa guided and you will know which one takes precedence Apia Mission, bishop, stake high councilor, patriarch, stake on any particular day.” president, and most recently, president of the Samoa Apia Elder Wilson served diligently as a missionary in the Mission. Brazil Central Mission and as bishop, stake president, and Elder Haleck believes that all his life experiences have Area Seventy before being called to the Second Quorum led him to where he is now. “I look back on my life, and I of the Seventy. can say that I can see the hand of the Lord,” Elder Haleck Helping Elder Wilson find that important balance in all says. “I’m grateful and honored by the confidence the his service is his wife, Lynda Mackey Wilson, whom he Lord has placed in us. I love the Lord and hope to be a married on July 10, 1974, in the . The good instrument. I know the Lord will help me.” ◼ Wilsons raised four children. “Whenever I left for Church meetings, she would say, ‘Good-bye, honey. Go serve the Lord,’” Elder Wilson says. “She was teaching our children the deeper meaning of my service. Before long they would say, ‘Good-bye, Daddy. Go serve the Lord!’” ◼

138 announced: “Our able-bodied mem- bers must not, except as a last resort, be put under the embarrassment of accepting something for nothing. . . . Church officials administering relief must devise ways and means by which all able-bodied Church members who are in need, may make compensation for aid given them by rendering some sort of service.” 3 With the principles in place and the faith of the Saints in play, individual Church units as well as the Church at large went to work organizing classes on sewing and canning, coordinating Presidents David O. McKay, Heber J. Grant, and J. Reuben Clark Jr. (left to right) work projects, acquiring farms, and of the First Presidency visit Welfare Square in 1940. emphasizing righteous, thrifty, and independent living.

The Church Welfare Plan Celebrating 75 Years of Welfare With the organization of the Church Security Plan (renamed the Church By Heather Wrigley Welfare Plan in 1938), people were Church Magazines given the opportunity to work, to the everal addresses during the 181st Welfare Principles extent of their ability, for the assis- Annual General Conference of In 1929 the United States expe- tance they received. The plan taught Sthe Church were dedicated to the rienced huge financial losses when people to turn to themselves for a commemoration of the Church’s wel- the stock market crashed. By 1932 “hand up” rather than to other sources fare program, celebrating its 75th year. unemployment in Utah had reached for a handout. On its inaugural day in 1936, 35.8 percent. “Our primary purpose was to set President David O. McKay, then a Though the Church had welfare up . . . a system under which the counselor in the First Presidency, principles in place, including a system curse of idleness would be done affirmed the divinely inspired roots of of storehouses and programs to help away with, the evils of a dole abol- the Church’s welfare plan: “[The wel- members find work, many members ished, and independence, industry, fare program] is established by divine were turning to government relief. thrift and self-respect be once more revelation, and there is nothing else “I believe that there is a growing established amongst our people,” in all the world that can so effectively disposition among the people to try to President Grant said during the take care of its members.” 1 get something from the government October 1936 general conference. Seventy-five years have come and of the United States with little hope of “Work is to be re-enthroned as the gone. Economic cycles have run their ever paying it back,” President Heber J. ruling principle of the lives of our course and begun again. The world Grant (1856–1945) commented during Church membership.” 4 has seen huge societal and cultural this time.2 Over the years, the Church’s changes, and the Church has seen Church leaders wanted to help welfare system has included many monumental growth. struggling members without promot- programs: Social Services (now But the words spoken of the ing idleness and a sense of entitle- LDS Family Services), LDS Charities, Church’s divinely inspired welfare ment. The goal was to help people Humanitarian Services, and Emergency plan on that day in 1936 are as true help themselves become independent. Response. These programs and others today as they were then. In 1933 the First Presidency have blessed the lives of hundreds

May 2011 139 Whether making bread (above left), growing grapes (above right), or providing aid in some other way, the Church’s welfare program aims to develop self-reliance through faith in Jesus Christ.

of thousands both in and out of the Church employment centers. “The strength of the Church and Church. With the formation of Church the Lord’s real storehouse is in the Humanitarian Services in 1985, the homes and hearts of his people,” Elder Going International Church’s international welfare efforts Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Even after the Great Depression grew tremendously as clothing and Twelve Apostles has said.5 came to an end at the outbreak of other goods were sorted for shipment As individuals develop their own World War II, President J. Reuben around the world in response to pov- self-reliance through faith in Jesus Clark Jr., Second Counselor in the erty and disasters. Christ, the program’s long-term First Presidency, providentially advo- Today the growth of the interna- objective, as defined by President cated continuing the welfare pro- tional membership of the Church, Clark, continues to be fulfilled: “the gram. In October 1945, U.S. President especially in developing nations, building of character in the members Harry S. Truman called on Church poses new challenges, which the wel- of the Church, givers and receivers, President (1870– fare program is adapting to meet. rescuing all that is finest down deep 1951) to determine how and when inside of them, and bringing to flower supplies could be delivered to areas An Inspired Plan for Today and fruitage the latent richness of the of devastated by the war. To The basic principles of welfare— spirit, which after all is the mission President Truman’s astonishment, self-reliance and industry—remain and purpose and reason for being of Church leaders replied that the food the same today as when the Lord this Church.” 6 ◼ and clothing and other relief supplies commanded Adam, “In the sweat NOTES were already collected and ready for of thy face shalt thou eat bread” 1. David O. McKay, in Henry D. Taylor, shipping. (Genesis 3:19). The Church Welfare Plan, unpublished ms., Salt Lake City (1984), 26–27. Over time the Church expanded In latter days the Lord has declared, 2. Heber J. Grant, in Conference Report, its welfare facilities and programs to “And the storehouse shall be kept Oct. 1933, 5. cover more areas of need, includ- by the consecrations of the church; 3. In James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of ing more geographical areas. In and widows and orphans shall be Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6 vols., the 1970s, the Church expanded its provided for, as also the poor” (D&C (1965–75), 5:332–34. welfare projects and production to 83:6). Then He reminds us, “But it 4. Heber J. Grant, in Conference Report, Oct. 1936, 3. Mexico, England, and the Pacific must needs be done in mine own 5. Robert D. Hales, “Welfare Principles to Islands. During the following decade way” (D&C 104:16). Guide Our Lives: An Eternal Plan for the Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Welfare principles are at work in Welfare of Men’s Souls,” ­Ensign, May 1986, 28. Uruguay became the first countries members’ lives around the world as a 6. J. Reuben Clark Jr., in special meeting of outside the United States to receive daily principle in individual homes. stake presidents, Oct. 2, 1936. 140 benefit and bless those who suffer or Inspired Words on an Inspired Work: are in need. As sons and daughters of God, we cannot inherit the full What Speakers Said about Welfare measure of eternal life without being fully invested in caring for each other while we are here on earth. It is in the everal addresses during the 181st all times. The principles at the founda- benevolent practice of sacrifice and Annual General Conference of tion of the Church welfare program are giving of ourselves to others that we Sthe Church were dedicated to the not for only one time or one place. They learn the celestial principles of sacri- commemoration of the Church’s wel- are for all times and all places.” fice and consecration.” fare program, celebrating its 75th year. “[The Lord] has invited and com- “This is the sacred work the Savior Below are excerpts from speakers’ manded us to participate in His work expects from His disciples. It is the talks focusing on the welfare program to lift up those in need. We make work He loved when He walked the and the welfare principles set forth a covenant to do that in the waters earth. It is the work I know we would by the Lord to help His children help of baptism and in the holy temples find Him doing were He here among themselves. of God. We renew the covenant on us today.” (See “The Sanctifying Work Sundays when we partake of the of Welfare,” page 81.) President Thomas S. Monson sacrament.” (See “Opportunities to Do “I declare that the welfare program Good,” page 22.) Silvia H. Allred, First Counselor in the of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Relief Society General Presidency day Saints is inspired of Almighty Bishop H. David Burton, Presiding Bishop “Men and women of the Church par- God.” (See “The Holy Temple—a “The prophetic welfare plan is not ticipate jointly today in bringing relief to Beacon to the World,” page 90.) merely an interesting footnote in the those in need. . . . When love becomes history of the Church. The principles the guiding principle in our care for President Henry B. Eyring, First upon which it is based define who we others, our service to them becomes Counselor in the First Presidency are as a people. It is the essence of who the gospel in action. It is the gospel in “Great temporal needs of the children we are as individual disciples of our its finest moment. It is pure religion.” of Heavenly Father have come again in Savior and Exemplar, Jesus the Christ.” (See “The Essence of Discipleship,” our time as they have and as they will in “This sacred work is not only to page 84.) ◼

opportunities. He said the Church Perpetual Education Fund would rely on volunteers and existing Fulfills Prophetic Promises Church resources to succeed. Miracles Brought to Pass By Natasia Garrett Fund (PEF). A revolving fund that When President Hinckley stepped Church Magazines would be established using donations to the pulpit on March 31, 2001, and en years ago President Gordon B. from members and friends of the laid out a vision of the Perpetual Hinckley (1910–2008) outlined a Church, the PEF would supply educa- Education Fund before the priest- Tproblem—the inability of many tional loans to young people with the hood of the Church, it was evident returned missionaries and other expectation that they would prepare to many that the Lord’s prophet had worthy youth in developing areas for gainful employment in their received direction. to escape poverty—and provided communities and repay the loans The potential for failure might a solution: the Perpetual Education so that others could have similar have seemed to loom as the PEF’s

May 2011 141 PHOTOGRAPH BY BRIAN WILCOX The Perpetual Education Fund, which began 10 years ago, has helped more than 47,000 participants. newly appointed leaders rushed to System institute programs and Church this same faith when he held his begin providing loans by autumn Employment Resource Centers. prophetic mantle over the dark sea of of 2001, as President Hinckley had Whatever was needed fell into place poverty and initiated PEF.” directed. Outside of the prophet’s quickly, providing the program with “It is a miracle,” President Hinckley inspired outline there existed no what President Hinckley reported in confirmed repeatedly. business plan, no detailed proposal. April 2002 to be a “solid foundation.” 1 After 10 years, though, the greatest The program was organized using the miracles may be just beginning. text of President Hinckley’s confer- ence talk as its charter. Hundreds of Promises Fulfilled loan applications were flooding into “President Hinckley’s In his announcement of the PEF Church headquarters even as direc- invitation helps those who and in later addresses, President tors were being called and the basic contribute to the PEF as Hinckley promised several bless- structure of the program was being well as those who [use it to] ings would flow from the PEF. Each formed. improve themselves to draw is being fulfilled with increasing But miracles were already taking closer to our Savior.” momentum as more participants place. Within the first year, mil- graduate from the PEF and repay lions of dollars were donated to the –Elder John K. Carmack their loans. program. Several individuals whose backgrounds made them uniquely Opportunity and Employment qualified for the work of the PEF Rex Allen, currently serving as “[Participants] will be enabled were immediately available to serve volunteer director of training and to get good educations that will lift as volunteer directors. The infra- communications for the PEF, said, them out of the slough of poverty,” structure necessary to support the “Long ago, Moses stretched his staff President Hinckley said.2 PEF globally had already been laid over the Red Sea and the waters As of February 2011, nearly 90 in the form of Church Educational divided. President Hinckley mirrored percent of those who have sought 142 work after completing their school- the circle of hope expand as those donations continue and loans are ing have found employment. Some who have been blessed share the repaid, allowing a new generation of 78 percent of those now employed blessings with others.” participants to improve themselves say that their current employment and their situations. is an improvement over what they Effects on the Lives of Many To learn more about the Perpetual had before receiving training. The “[The PEF] will become a bless- Education Fund, please visit pef.lds average income after schooling for ing to all whose lives it touches—to .org. ◼ PEF participants is three to four times the young men and women, to their greater than income prior to school- future families, to the Church that NOTES 1. Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Church Goes ing, representing a vast improvement will be blessed with their strong Forward,” ­Liahona, July 2002, 4; ­Ensign, in economic status. local leadership,” President Hinckley May 2002, 6. promised.5 2. Gordon B. Hinckley, ­Liahona, July 2002, 4; ­Ensign, May 2002, 6. Family and Community More than 47,000 people have par- 3. Gordon B. Hinckley, ­Liahona, July 2002, 4; “They will marry and go forward ticipated in the PEF since fall 2001. ­Ensign, May 2002, 6. with skills that will qualify them That’s not counting the extended 4. Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Perpetual Education Fund,” ­Liahona, July 2001, 62; to earn well and take their places families that are supported and ­Ensign, May 2001, 52. in society where they can make a inspired by family members partic- 5. Gordon B. Hinckley, ­Liahona, July 2001, substantial contribution,” President ipating in the PEF, the wards and 62; ­Ensign, May 2001, 52. Hinckley declared.3 Just over one- branches that benefit from members third of current PEF participants are who have a greater capacity to serve now married. and contribute, and the local econ- Elder John K. Carmack, executive omies that need skilled workers to director of the PEF, says: “One of grow. the most encouraging outcomes of “Imagine the impact as you con- the PEF so far is that we are seeing sider all who are affected,” Brother that young people gain more hope. Allen said. “This extends to those This hope gives them the courage to who donate to the PEF—the donors, Call for Survey get married and to move forward in their families, their wards and their lives.” branches—all are blessed by their As they do so, their growing fami- contributions.” Participants lies look forward to brighter futures. “Within the grasp of almost all f you have ever wanted to influence Latter-day Saints is the ability to give the ­Liahona or ­Ensign and the mil- Church and Leadership something regularly to this fund and Ilions who read the messages in the “As faithful members of the to other worthy endeavors,” Elder magazines, here’s your chance. The Church, they will pay their tithes and Carmack said. “President Hinckley’s magazines are looking for members offerings, and the Church will be invitation helps those who contribute around the world who are willing much the stronger for their pres- to the PEF as well as those who [use to provide feedback and participate ence in the areas where they live,” it to] improve themselves to draw in a handful of simple online sur- President Hinckley said. 4 closer to our Savior.” veys each year. If you would like to In some areas where the PEF has participate, please e-mail liahona@ been in operation for several years, as Continuing Growth ldschurch.org or ensign@ldschurch many as 10 to 15 percent of current President Hinckley’s prophetic .org and put “Magazine Evaluation” Church leadership consists of PEF vision of the Perpetual Education in the subject line. Volunteers must participants. Fund has been realized as the have Internet access and be able to “Participants have encouraged influence of this inspired program communicate in English, Portuguese, other young people to use PEF loans continues to spread throughout the or Spanish. Your feedback will help and to break out of poverty,” said Rex world, and it will continue to be the magazines better meet the needs Allen. “After 10 years we are seeing realized in ever-greater numbers as of readers around the world. ◼

May 2011 143 Christ of Latter-day Saints today?” Elder Hales asked.4 “We must ever remember the countless martyrs who knew of [the Bible’s] power and who gave their lives that we may be able to find within its words the eternal happi- ness and the peace of our Heavenly 5 © IRI Father’s kingdom,” Elder Ballard said. The 400-year-old King James Version of the Holy Bible continues to influence President Boyd K. Packer, President members of the Church today. of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, shared a story about viewing a cen- turies-old family Bible and finding a quote on the title page that said, “The Bible’s 400th Anniversary fairest Impression of the Bible is to have it well printed on the Reader’s Best Celebrated with More Study, heart.” 6 He follows with this scrip- ture: “Ye are our epistle written in our Apostles’ Words Suggest hearts, known and read of all men” (2 Corinthians 3:2). t is not by chance or coincidence the Bible, its teachings, its lessons, By knowing and loving the Bible that we have the Bible today,” said and its spirit. . . . I love the perspective and its accompanying scriptural texts, Elder M. Russell Ballard of the and peace that come from reading the we can show our appreciation and I 1 2 Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He Bible.” enjoy the blessings of the Restoration explains that the Bible exists because Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the of the gospel. of the obedience of righteous indi- Quorum of the Twelve Apostles “Consider the magnitude of our viduals who followed promptings to agrees. “We love and revere the Bible,” blessing to have the Holy Bible record sacred experiences and teach- he said. “It is always identified first in and some 900 additional pages ings, as well as the faith and courage our canon, our ‘standard works.’” 3 He of scripture,” said Elder D. Todd of others, including translators, who reminded us that the Restoration came Christofferson. “May we feast continu- later sacrificed much to “protect and about because Joseph Smith studied ously on the words of Christ that will preserve” the Bible. the Bible and exerted faith in the tell us all things we should do.” 7 ◼ May 2, 2011, marks the 400th promise made in James 1:5 that God anniversary of the first publication of will answer our prayers. NOTES 1. M. Russell Ballard, “The Miracle of the King James Version of the Bible. Recalling the events that paved the Holy Bible,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Throughout the world, people are the way for the Restoration, Elder May 2007, 80. already commemorating the publi- Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of 2. M. Russell Ballard, ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2007, 81. cation of the Bible with symposia, the Twelve Apostles spoke with 3. Jeffrey R. Holland, “My Words . . . Never celebrations, concerts, speaking gratitude for all who made possible Cease,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2008, 92. competitions, and more. Members of the translation and publication of 4. Robert D. Hales, “Preparations for the Restoration and the Second Coming: My the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles the Bible. Because of their work, the Hand Shall Be over Thee,” ­Liahona and suggest another way to mark the King James Version of the Bible was ­Ensign, Nov. 2005, 90. occasion: by developing a love for the available for anyone to read—and 5. M. Russell Ballard, ­Liahona and ­Ensign, May 2007, 80. Bible as we study the life and minis- because it was available to Joseph 6. Boyd K. Packer, “The Book of Mormon: try of the Savior and the words of the Smith, the true Church was restored Another Testament of Jesus Christ,” ­Liahona, ancient prophets and apostles. to the earth. “Is it any wonder that the Jan. 2002, 73; ­Ensign, Nov. 2001, 63. 7. D. Todd Christofferson, “The Blessing “How grateful we should be for the King James Version is the approved of Scripture,” ­Liahona and ­Ensign, Holy Bible,” Elder Ballard said. “I love English Bible of The Church of Jesus May 2010, 35. 144 Architectural Rendering of the Rome Italy Temple

“Every temple is a house of God, filling the same functions and with identical blessings and ordinances,” said President Thomas S. Monson in the Sunday morning session. “The Rome Italy Temple, uniquely, is being built in one of the most historic locations in the world, a city where the ancient Apostles Peter and Paul preached the gospel of Christ. . . . In a coming day, the faithful in this, the Eternal City, will receive ordinances eternal in nature in a holy house of God.” share with you my love for the Savior and for His great atoning sacrifice for I us. . . . I believe that none of us can conceive the full import of what Christ did for us in Gethsemane, but I am grateful every day of my life for His atoning sacrifice in our behalf,” said President Thomas S. Monson at the close of the 181st Annual General Conference. “. . . He passed beneath all things that He might save all things. In doing so, He gave us life beyond this mortal existence. He reclaimed us from the Fall of Adam. To the depths of my very soul, I am grateful to Him. He taught us how to live. He taught us how to die. He secured our salvation.”