Saturdaymorningsession 190th Annual General Conference

President Russell M. Nelson President M. Russell Ballard Elder James R. Rasband President of the Church Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

The COVID-19 pandemic has emerged from Alma taught that “God himself altered church meetings, mission- the Sacred Grove to begin his atoneth for the sins of the world, ary service and work. preparation to become a prophet to bring about the plan of mercy, to The Lord has promised that of God, with the appease the demands of justice, that those who are prepared shall not followed by the visits of heavenly God might be a perfect, just God, and fear (Doctrine and Covenants messengers, the translation a merciful God also” (Alma 42:15). 38:30). “Of course, we can store and publication of the Book of Through his atoning sacrifice, our own reserves of food, water Mormon, and the organization of Jesus Christ satisfied the demands and savings. But equally crucial the Church. of justice for all of God’s children. is our need to fill our personal Joseph and his elder brother Alma’s experience illustrates the spiritual storehouses with faith, truth and testimony.” Hyrum experienced rejection, opposition and persecution, healing power of this knowledge. He was tortured by the This year the Church commemorates the 200th anniver- ultimately ending with their deaths at Carthage Jail, reality that he had led many people away from God’s light, sary of Joseph Smith’s First Vision, in which Heavenly Fa- becoming martyrs for Christ’s cause and name. but through faith and repentance he received peace. ther pointed to Jesus Christ and said: “This is my beloved “As we celebrate this joyous occasion, the 200th anni- Christ’s healing was extended not only to Alma for his son. Hear Him!” (Joseph Smith — History 1:17). versary of the First Vision, we should always remember sins, but also to those whom Alma had harmed through his “We pray that this conference will be memorable and the price Joseph and Hyrum Smith paid, along with so behavior. Alma’s joy and relief upon receiving forgiveness unforgettable because of the messages you will hear, many other faithful men, women and children, to establish were not only for himself, but for those he had wronged and the unique announcements which will be made, and the the Church so you and I could have and enjoy the many could never fully heal despite attempts to make restitution. experiences in which you will be invited to participate.” blessings and all these revealed truths we have today.” Through Christ’s healing power, all of God’s children will have At the conclusion of the Sunday morning session, As Latter-day Saints listen to the Spirit during the a fair opportunity to choose to follow him. Jesus Christ can right Latter-day Saints convened a worldwide solemn assembly weekend’s 200th anniversary celebration, “consider what any wrong and heal any hurt in a way that honors both justice and gave the sacred Hosanna Shout. offering you will present to the Lord in righteousness.” and mercy.

Sister Joy D. Jones Elder Neil L. Andersen Brother Douglas D. Holmes President Henry B. Eyring Primary general president Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Young Men general presidency Second counselor, First Presidency

Every woman’s Joseph Smith The Children In the faithful and knew many and Youth restoration of unique contribu- “difficult hours” initiative remains the gospel, each tions are vital. in the decades anchored to person’s part is “The Lord loves following the principles that vital. effort, and effort First Vision and help place the The work of the brings rewards” the restoration of gospel of Jesus Lord in the last as individuals Christ’s Church. Christ “deep in the days is one of keep practicing, But the Prophet hearts” of children vast magnitude progressing and never doubted and youths. and grandeur. striving to follow the Lord. “He doesn’t God’s love for him or his testimony of the “As we come to see these principles To participate in the work of the Lord, expect perfection today,” but, as in times things he had witnessed. more clearly, we will recognize this as each person has to grow in spiritual past, “our journey does, indeed, take Defining reminders of God’s love often more than a program for members ages power. “When we ... strive to obey and effort, hard work and study.” Such efforts come while learning about the gospel or 8 to 18.” live the commandments, we grow in our bring eternal rewards. sharing it with others. The Lord’s living The initiative’s first principle is relation- power to receive continuing revelation.” “Our continuing role is to receive con- prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, ships. “We are not expected to find or walk The key to receiving revelation from tinuing revelation.” With greater capacity has invited Latter-day Saints to ponder the covenant path alone. We need love God, as shown by Joseph Smith, is the and proficiency to receive revelation, indi- the essential question: “How do you hear and support from parents, other family prayer of faith. “As we face today’s chal- viduals receive more power to accomplish Him?” members, friends and leaders who are lenges and those yet to come, we too the work of salvation and exaltation. “We hear Him in our prayers, in our also walking the path.” will need to practice the same pattern.” “There is beautiful unity between women homes, in the scriptures, in our hymns, as Revelation, agency and repentance Latter-day Saints can turn to words and men in accomplishing God’s work we worthily partake of the sacrament, as also connect Latter-day Saint youths with from the sacrament prayers as descrip- today.” Men and women alike access we declare our faith, as we serve others, heaven. tors of daily life: “Always remember the power of the priesthood through and as we attend the temple with fellow The Children and Youth initiative is Him” and “keep His commandments.” covenants made with the Lord — begin- believers.” defined by a central invitation: Choose to A prayer offered with faith in Jesus ning with the covenants of baptism and One navigates his or her way through become more like the Savior by seeking Christ ushered in this last dispensation. culminating with those covenants made in life with constant prayer, keeping the guidance of the Holy Ghost and “And it will be at the heart of the part the temple. covenants and utilizing the gift of the Holy allowing Christ to “change us into the best each of us will play in its continuing “Sisters, I pray that we will recognize Ghost. version of ourselves.” unfolding.” and cherish priesthood power as we “Embrace your sacred memories. Be- Placing the gospel “deep in our hearts” Each person’s ability to make a vital ‘cleave unto our covenants,’ embrace lieve them. ... Share them with your family. requires engagement and sacrifice. contribution to the restoration will the truths of the scriptures and heed the Trust that they come to you from your “The Children and Youth program focuses increase as faith in Jesus Christ and words of our living prophets.” Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son.” on empowering the youth.” Heavenly Father grows. Saturdayafternoonsession 190th Annual General Conference

Elder Ulisses Soares Elder John A. McCune Bishop Gérald Caussé Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy Presiding Bishop

Following the First Vision, the Even amid pain and struggles, The central message of the publication of the Book of Mormon followers of Christ can find joy Book of Mormon is to restore is the “second fundamental mile- in Him. Elder McCune learned knowledge of Jesus Christ’s es- stone” of the unfolding restoration this when he was serving as a sential role in mankind’s salvation of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the mission president in 2014 and and exaltation. last dispensation. his son suffered a longboarding “Plain and precious truths “As we study the coming forth of accident that damaged his brain. about the Savior’s atonement this holy book of scripture in these The McCune family felt God’s resound throughout the Book latter days, we come to realize love and peace as they prayed in of Mormon.” These truths have that the entire undertaking was the hospital, despite not knowing changed or can change each miraculous — from the Prophet Joseph receiving the gold whether their son would survive his injuries. Over his two person’s life. plates from a holy angel, to its translation by the gift and months in the hospital and many sessions of physical, The Lord’s Atonement is a personal and intimate gift power of God, its preservation and publication by the hand speech and occupational therapy, the family stayed for each person individually. “Just as Jesus invited each of the Lord.” focused on Christ and recognized miracles that occurred one of the Nephite disciples to feel His wounds, He died The Book of Mormon’s translation marks yet another in the Lord’s way and according to His timing. for each one of us, personally, as if you or I were the only essential miracle. When it is difficult to have hope in anything, individuals person on Earth.” “We ought to look at the process more like a ‘revelation’ can find hope and peace in Christ. Church leaders desire The Book of Mormon also contains the conversion with the aid of physical instruments provided by the Lord.” all people to experience the comfort and joy that come stories of many individuals, showing how hearts and lives The coming forth of this latter-day scripture was made from a relationship with the Savior, and those who can be changed through the Lord’s goodness and mercy. possible only after acts of great faith and sacrifice. have made sacred covenants have the opportunity to The Lord’s redeeming power should accompany, “The historical facts and the special witnesses of the participate in the Lord’s work by inviting others to come motivate and change his disciples every day. Book of Mormon testify that its coming forth was indeed unto Christ. “As you study this book, you will hear the voice of the miraculous. Nevertheless, the power of this book is not The most important efforts to invite others to come living Christ inviting you to come unto Him. I promise that based only in its magnificent history but on its powerful, unto the Savior must occur within individuals’ own if you accept this invitation and pattern your life after His unparalleled message that has changed countless lives — homes, where they can help family and friends to feel example, His redemptive influence will come into your including mine.” His love. life.”

Elder Dale G. Renlund Elder Benjamin M. Z. Tai Elder Gary E. Stevenson Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Prophets have encouraged Jesus Christ is the “mas- President Brigham Young their listeners to remember the ter physician” and He has said of the Salt Lake Temple, “I greatness of God and consider prescribed everything needed want to see (the) temple built what he has done for individuals, “for us to become who we in a manner that it will endure families and people. need to be.” through the Millennium. This Heavenly Father wants His “Through His atonement, He is not the only temple we shall children to recall His and His binds up our wounds, takes build; there will be hundreds Beloved Son’s goodness — not upon himself our infirmities, of them built and dedicated to for their own gratification, but for and heals our broken hearts.” the Lord.” the influence such remembrance One of the greatest tools the Like Brigham Young, has on the individual. By considering Their kindness, one’s Savior has provided to help individuals progress on prophets today look over the Salt Lake Temple and perspective and understanding are enlarged. By reflecting His path to eternal salvation is the Book of Mormon. all others with great care. The Salt Lake Temple on Their compassion, one becomes more humble, prayer- “The Book of Mormon provides spiritual nutrition, is undergoing a four-year renovation, including a ful and steadfast. prescribes a plan of action and connects us with the seismic upgrade for earthquake protection to ensure “Every time we use, benefit from, or even think of these Holy Spirit.” Along with the Bible, the Book of Mor- a solid foundation. gifts, we ought to consider the sacrifice, generosity and mon testifies of Jesus Christ and teaches everything Latter-day Saints might ask themselves, “How compassion of the givers. Reverence for the givers does needed to know the truth of the Lord and become could this extensive renewal of the Salt Lake more than just make us grateful. Reflecting on Their gifts like Him. Temple inspire us to undergo our own spiritual can and should transform us. … By studying the Book of Mormon according to one’s renewal, reconstruction, rebirth, revitalization or “I invite you to remember each day the greatness of own circumstances, with a sincere desire to learn, restoration?” Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and what They have every individual can come to a knowledge of “the The best defense against wrestling with ques- done for you.” truth of all things” by the power of the Holy Ghost. tions or doubt, facing adversity or working through Consider Heavenly Father, referring to His beloved son “Conversion requires us to be ‘doers of the word, personal offenses with church members or policy by saying, “Hear Him.” and not hearers only’” — meaning that by consistent- lie in one’s spiritual foundation. Principles of gospel “As you act on those words and listen to Him, remember, ly “applying the doctrine of Christ in our lives … we living and the first four temple recommend interview joyfully and reverently, that the Savior loves to restore will receive personal revelation” and the Holy Ghost questions could serve as “spiritual cornerstones” for what you cannot restore.” “will show unto you all things what ye should do.” reinforcement. Saturdayeveningsession 190th Annual General Conference

Elder Gerrit W. Gong Sister Laudy R. Kaouk Brother Enzo S. Petelo Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Youth speaker Youth speaker

The sacred events between Laudy Kaouk, 17, encouraged The priesthood is a sacred gift Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday Church members who do not and has marvelous power to bless are the story of hosanna — a plea “already have a testimony about the youths in this dispensation, for God to save — and hallelujah the priesthood” to “pray and to said Enzo Serge Petelo, 15. — praise to the Lord for the hope know for yourself of its power, then “The priesthood is the authority of salvation and exaltation. “In read the scriptures to hear God’s to administer the ordinances hosanna and hallelujah we rec- words.” and covenants of the Savior’s ognize the living Jesus Christ as Regardless of their circumstances, gospel to those who are worthy the heart of Easter and latter-day Church members can always have to receive them. Through these restoration.” access to priesthood blessings. priesthood ordinances and sacred On Easter Sunday, April 3, 1836, the Savior appeared “Don’t hesitate to ask for a blessing when you need covenants come the full blessings of the Savior’s atone- when the was dedicated. Following His extra guidance. It is in our difficult moments that we need ment that helps us achieve our divine destiny.” appearance, Moses, Elias and Elijah also came to restore the Spirit to help us the most. No one is perfect and we all Latter-day Saints are given the opportunity to minister priesthood keys and authority. experience hardships.” like angels, to preach the gospel on all the continents The Book of Mormon describes the power of Christ Another way the priesthood blesses God’s children is of the Earth, and to help souls come unto Christ. “This through two restorations: a physical restoration, or a through patriarchal blessings. “My blessing helps me to service places us in joint labor with John the Baptist, resurrection, and a spiritual restoration through the Lord’s see my potential and the specific plan God has for me.” Moroni, Joseph Smith, President Nelson and other diligent atonement. Just like God blessed Joseph Smith with the priesthood servants of the Lord.” As begun 200 years ago, light and revelation continue so that the blessings of the gospel could be restored, Members cannot sit idly and expect the Lord to use to come forth through the Lord’s living prophet, His Latter-day Saints can receive the blessings of the gospel them in His great work. Church called in his name, personal revelation and in their lives through the priesthood. “We must not wait for those who need our aid to seek inspiration from the Holy Ghost. “Through the priesthood we can be lifted. The priest- us out; it is our duty as priesthood holders to exemplify “Today we celebrate restoration and resurrection.” hood brings light into our world.” and stand as witnesses of God.”

Sister Jean B. Bingham President Henry B. Eyring President Dallin H. Oaks President Russell M. Nelson Relief Society general president Second counselor, First Presidency First counselor, First Presidency President of the Church

When Adam and A “pivotal The priesthood The prime Eve entered mortal- moment in the is a divine power purpose of the ity, they learned to Restoration” and and authority, held restored Church counsel and work the gathering of in trust, to be used is to help people together, teach Israel occurred for God’s work for follow the Lord their children gos- on April 3, 1836, the benefit of all Jesus Christ, keep pel principles and in the Kirtland His children. His command- accomplish God’s Temple. “Priesthood ments and qualify work for them in The veil was is not those for the greatest partnership. “taken from the who have been of all blessings Over time, Satan has largely succeeded minds” of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, ordained to a priesthood office or those who — that of eternal life with God and one’s in dividing men and women. This division and they saw the Lord standing “upon the exercise its authority.” loved ones. destroys families and creates confusion breastwork of the pulpit.” The resurrected All blessings of the priesthood — including To better remember Him, the church is about individuals’ divine purpose and Christ said He accepted the new temple essential ordinances — are available to men introducing a symbol that will signify the identity. which had been dedicated in His name. and women alike. central place of Jesus Christ in His church. The Restoration of the gospel, which be- Blessings, He added, would be given The principle that priesthood authority can At the center of the symbol is a repre- gan with Joseph Smith’s First Vision in 1820, to all who keep His commandments and be exercised only under the direction of the sentation of Thorvaldsen’s marble statue, has shined light on the truth that women and claim the opportunities promised inside His one “who holds the keys for that function” is the “Christus.” It portrays the resurrected, men are equal partners in God’s plan. temple. Subsequent visions of Moses and fundamental in the Church — but does not living Lord reaching out to embrace all The Relief Society is a unique Elias were followed by an appearance of apply to families. who will come unto Him. organization because it operates under Elijah, who announced the day had come “A father presides and exercises the “The symbol will ... remind all that this the priesthood authority of God, giving “to turn the hearts of the fathers to the chil- priesthood in his family by the authority of is the Savior’s church and that all we do, women the power necessary to fulfill their dren, and the children to the fathers.” the priesthood he holds. He has no need to as members of His church, centers on responsibilities. The Lord envisioned all of the Resto- have the direction or approval of one holding Jesus Christ and his gospel.” President Russell M. Nelson has cited ration’s key moments. priesthood keys in order to perform his The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has Lucy and Emma Smith as examples of “He planned for it, step by step, as various family functions.” put the world in commotion. Now is the women who played vital roles in the He has done with other changes in His The same principle applies when a father time to put one’s faith in Jesus Christ into Restoration. Church. ... is absent and a mother is the family leader. action. Both women and men must see each “He is firm in the timing and the se- She presides in her home and “is instrumen- “So tonight … I am calling for another other as true partners in order to experi- quence of His intentions, yet He ensures tal in bringing the power and blessings of worldwide fast (on Good Friday, April 10). ence the joy and unity God intends for his that sacrifice often brings continuing the priesthood into her family through her For all whose health may permit, let us children. blessings that we did not foresee.” and sealing in the temple.” fast, pray and unite our faith once again.” Sundaymorningsession 190th Annual General Conference

Elder Ronald A. Rasband Sister Bonnie H. Cordon Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Young Women general president Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Ancient prophets prophesied Jesus Christ has called upon Looking back at the majesty of of the restoration and what was His disciples to “let your light so God’s hand in restoring the gospel to come in the last dispensation shine before this people, that of Jesus Christ, what would one and fulness of times. Many of they may see your good works living in the 1800s have hoped these prophecies have been and glorify your Father who is for? fulfilled already. in heaven.” This invitation from Perhaps one would have Daniel prophesied the Lord’s the Lord is an earnest invitation hoped for the restoration of a church “would rise in the last to “be more intentional about truer concept of a caring Father in days as a small stone cut out of helping others see the path Heaven, who spoke as openly in the mountain without hands” and, thereby, come unto the present as He did in the past, and increase until it fills the whole earth. Christ.” whose every action would be for the “benefit of the world.” The apostle Peter described times of restitution of all But the Lord’s invitation is about more than just Other hopes include scriptural evidence of the Savior’s life things. The Church is a living example of that restitution. making the world a generally brighter place. “It is about and resurrection, priesthood authority, temples and sealing Joseph of Egypt prophesied a seer that the Lord would focusing our light so others may see the way to Christ.” families for time and all eternity. raise up. Joseph Smith was that seer. John the Revelator His invitation is about gathering Israel on this side of the “Beginning in the Sacred Grove and continuing to this day, prophesied of an angel bringing together important veil and helping others to see their next steps forward in these desires began to be clothed in reality and became, as elements of the restoration. Moroni was that angel. making and keeping sacred covenants with God. the apostle Paul and others taught, true anchors to the soul, Malachi spoke of the return of Elijah, who did come, Despite the seeming weakness of one’s own light at sure and steadfast.” and now there are 168 temples dotting the earth. times, the Lord “reminds us that he will bring the light As the world battles an “all hands on deck war” with Church members are to gather God’s children and if we will just point others to Him.” He is the light; His COVID-19, many still have hopes that have not yet been share the gospel. “The doctrine of Jesus Christ unites disciples need only help point others to Him. fulfilled. all of us — around the world — as sons and daughters of The Lord has said “there are many yet on the earth … “When we have conquered it — and we will — may we God, as brothers and sisters in the gospel.” who are only kept from the truth because they know not be equally committed to freeing the world from the virus of Isaiah prophesied that “the mountain of the Lord’s where to find it.” As disciples of Christ, “We can help. hunger and freeing neighborhoods and nations from the house shall be established in the top of the mountains … We can intentionally shine our light so others may see. virus of poverty,” and hope for safer schools and the gift of and all nations shall flow unto it” (Isaiah 2:2). We can extend an invitation. We can walk the journey personal dignity for every child. With millions of church members and friends connect- with those who are taking a step toward the Savior, no Many have deeply personal hopes in addition to these ed through television, internet and other means, “We are matter how halting.” global desires, including marriage, overcoming an addiction, sitting down as if together in the top of the mountains.” Every effort one makes can be magnified by the Lord. help for a wayward child, or for physical or emotional pain “We do not know when the Savior will return, but this “The Holy Ghost will prompt us to know what to say to stop. we do know: We must be prepared in heart and mind, and do.” And at times, “such attempts may require us “Because the restoration reaffirmed the foundational truth worthy to receive Him, and honored to be part of all that to step out of our comfort zone, but we can be assured that God does work in this world, we can hope, we should was prophesied so long ago.” that the Lord will help our light shine.” hope, even when facing the most insurmountable odds.”

Elder David A. Bednar President Russell M. Nelson Quorum of the Twelve Apostles President of the Church

The restoration of the sealing authority by Elijah in 1836 was neces- The three instances of God the Father introducing his Beloved sary to prepare the world for the Savior’s second coming and initiated Son, Jesus Christ — on the Mount of Transfiguration, to the a greatly increased and worldwide interest in family history research. Nephites in ancient Bountiful, and to Joseph Smith in the Sacred The essence of the Lord’s work is changing, turning and purifying Grove — included the invitation to “hear Him.” hearts through gospel covenants and priesthood ordinances. The most “What will happen as you more intentionally hear, hearken sacred covenants and priesthood ordinances are received only in a and heed what the Savior has said, and what he is saying now temple. through his prophets? I promise you that you will be blessed with “We do not build or enter holy temples solely to have a memorable additional power to deal with temptation, struggles and weak- individual or family experience. Rather, the covenants received and the ness. I promise miracles in your marriage, family relationships ordinances performed in temples are essential to the sanctifying of our and daily work. And I promise that your capacity to feel joy will hearts and for the ultimate exaltation of God’s sons and daughters.” increase, even if turbulence increases in your life.” Covenants and priesthood ordinances are central in the ongoing process of spiritual rebirth and Church leaders considered erecting a monument to commemorate the First Vision’s transformation — they are the means whereby the Lord works with people from the inside out. bicentennial. “We felt impressed to create a monument — not of granite or stone, but of “We do not come to the temple to hide from or escape the evils of the world. Rather, we come words — words of solemn and sacred proclamation — written not to be carved in ‘tables of to the temple to conquer the world of evil.” stone,’ but rather to be etched in the ‘fleshy tables’ of our hearts.” During a period of prolific temple building, the announcement of each new temple is a source The reading of the proclamation was recorded in the Sacred Grove and is available of great joy. But one’s primary focus should be on the covenants and ordinances that “can immediately. change our hearts and deepen our devotion to the Savior” — not simply on the location or beauty “Study it privately and with your family members and friends. Ponder the truths and think of of the building. the impact those truths will have on your life if you will hear them, hearken to them, and heed Joseph Smith taught that the building up of Zion brings about the renovation of earth and the the commandments and covenants that accompany them.” salvation of the human. “I witness that this latter-day work will destroy the powers of darkness As a benediction to the message and the proclamation, President Nelson invited those and bring about the salvation of the human family.” watching to join in the Hosanna Shout and singing “The Spirit of God.” Sundayafternoonsession 190th Annual General Conference

President Dallin H. Oaks Elder Quentin L. Cook Elder Ricardo P. Giménez First counselor, First Presidency Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

God’s divine plan of happiness The restored Church of Jesus Every person will experience allows all to rely on the Savior. His Christ is “founded upon the rock of storms in life that challenge resurrection redeems all from phys- revelation,” as President Spencer their capacity to endure. Fear ical death, and His atoning sacrifice W. Kimball taught. The Prophet and despair are natural human pays the price for the repentant to Joseph Smith received revelation responses to such difficulties, be cleansed from sin. after revelation. President Russell but President Russell M. Nelson “This atonement of Jesus Christ is M. Nelson receives revelation has taught that faith in Jesus central to the Father’s plan.” for the Church today. The new Christ is the antidote to fear. Through that atonement, God’s proclamation he read this morning Those who are suffering can plan provides four great assuranc- is evidence the Lord communicates choose to seek refuge in Jesus es: His suffering and one’s repentance allows sins to be with His children. Christ, and He will make their burdens light. “However, forgiven and remembered no more, He took upon himself The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles we have limited understanding of the things that hap- all mortal infirmities, His resurrection revokes the finality of desire to be reunited with those who have left the Church. pen here on earth, and often we do not have answers to physical death, and one’s progress need not conclude with “We need you! The Church needs you! The Lord needs you! the question of why.” the end of mortality. Our heartfelt prayer is that you will join with us in worship- “When answers evade us, that is when the words During the 200th anniversary of the First Vision and the ping the Savior of the world.” expressed by our Savior to the Prophet Joseph Smith in Restoration’s initiation, “we know the Lord’s plan, and we Personal revelation is as important as prophetic Liberty Jail are completely applicable: ‘My son, peace are encouraged by two centuries of its blessings through revelation and is available to all who humbly seek the be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions his restored Church. In this year of 2020, we have what is Lord’s guidance. Some principles to prepare for receiving shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure popularly called 20/20 vision for the events of the past. As revelation include praying for spiritual guidance, preparing it well, God shall exalt thee on high’ ” (Doctrine and we look to the future, however, our vision is far less sure.” for inspiration, and worthily partaking of the sacrament. Covenants 121:7–8). With “more mortally experienced workers” in the spirit “Our spiritual preparation is greatly enhanced when we Through his atoning sacrifice, Jesus Christ under- world and more temples to perform the ordinances of eternity, regularly study the scriptures and truths of the gospel and stands perfectly the pain of every human being and “all of this furthers our Heavenly Father’s plan. God’s love is ponder in our minds the guidance we seek. But remember can succor them according to their needs. As President so great that … He has provided a destiny of glory for all of to be patient and trust in the Lord’s timing.” Nelson has taught, when Latter-day Saints focus on the His children.” The Holy Ghost will also provide revelation in callings and Savior, they can feel joy in any circumstance. Many Latter-day Saints do not fully understand this plan, assignments. “In my experience, significant spiritual guidance “Of course, it is easier to say these things when we which answers most questions about doctrine and inspired most often comes when we are trying to bless others in fulfilling are not in the midst of a storm than to live and apply policies. “We who know God’s plan and who have covenant- our responsibilities.” them during the storm. But as your brother, I hope you ed to participate, have a clear responsibility to teach these “Most of our guidance comes from the Holy Ghost. Some- can feel that I sincerely want to share with you how truths and do all that we can to further them for others and times and for some purposes it comes directly from the Lord. I valuable it is to know that Jesus Christ and his atone- in our own circumstances in mortality.” personally testify that this is true. Guidance for the church, as ment are the refuge that we all need, regardless of the a whole, comes to the president and prophet of the Church.” storms that are battering our lives.”

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf Elder L. Whitney Clayton Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Presidency of the Seventy

The Lord’s church is structured to provide opportunities to practice After seeing a billboard advertising furniture that read, “Serving the fundamentals of discipleship. “Actively participating in the Church the Finest Homes in Salt Lake City,” Elder Clayton pondered the of Jesus Christ and its great variety of opportunities will help us to be home in which he and his wife raised their children, the homes in better prepared for life’s changing circumstances, whatever and how which their children are raising children and the homes of Church serious they may be.” members around the world. All of God’s children are invited to join in this great endeavor. “What is a ‘finest home’?” A fine home depends on the spiritual quali- Everyone is invited to come and see, come and serve, and to ties of its residents, and the best possible attribute for a home is that the come and belong. image of Christ be reflected in the countenances of those who live there. Everyone is invited to read the Book of Mormon, visit ComeUn- “What matters is the interior design of the souls of the inhabi- toChrist.org and meet with missionaries. “In the Church of Jesus tants, not the structure itself. The attributes of Christ are acquired Christ, you will find a family of people who are not so different from you.” in the ‘process of time’ by intentional progress along the covenant path. Christlike attributes The Savior’s embrace extends to all; He cares deeply about every one of God’s children, adorn the lives of those who strive to live with goodness.” no matter their circumstances and even if they reject Him. “There is no threshold of perfec- Residents can transform their homes into the finest homes by studying the scriptures tion you must attain in order to qualify for God’s grace.” and the words of living prophets every day. The scriptures tell stories of families, showing Heavenly Father doesn’t micromanage His children. Instead, He allows them to learn how righteous living results in blessings. from their mistakes. “Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died so that our mistakes might not The finest homes are patterned after the temple. Keeping commandments and practicing condemn us and forever halt our progress.” steady discipleship transforms individuals and the homes they live in. “As we continue in God uses imperfect people to bring about His purposes. “This truth stands as a testimony faith, the Lord gradually changes us. We receive His image in our countenance and begin that it is God’s power, not man’s, that accomplishes His work on the earth.” to reflect the love and beauty of His character.” Everyone has a crucial part to play in the restoration, which is to love and serve God and The finest homes offer a refuge from the storms of mortality. “The Lord has promised that His children. “As you do so, God will encircle you with His love, joy and certain guidance those who keep the commandments of God ‘prosper in the land.’ God’s prosperity is the through this life, even under the most serious circumstances and even beyond.” power to press forward despite the problems of life.” Sundayafternoonsession 190th Annual General Conference

Elder D. Todd Christofferson President Russell M. Nelson Quorum of the Twelve Apostles President of the Church

The Restoration is not only for those who rejoice in it The 190th Annual General Conference — falling on the bicentennial today. The revelations of the First Vision are offered as of the First Vision — has been rich with highlights: light and truth for any who “lack wisdom,” and the Book • The restoration was commemorated with the Hosanna Shout. of Mormon is the property of all mankind. “The Church • A new symbol “signifying our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ” was of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its blessings are unveiled. intended for all who want them.” • A call for a “global day of fasting and prayer” for divine assistance The urgent message of the Restoration belongs to the in response to the ongoing pandemic, on Good Friday, April 10. world and is increasingly important in these last days. • Eight new temples announced in: Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Disciples of Christ have a responsibility to invite others Tallahassee, Florida; Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo; to come unto Christ, but “our invitations cannot be a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Benin City, Nigeria; Syracuse, Utah; Dubai, matter of self-interest; rather, they must be an expression of selfless love.” United Arab Emirates; and Shanghai, People’s Republic of China. In addition to showing love, disciples can serve as examples of living the princi- Easter Sunday (April 12) once again celebrates the atonement and resurrection of Jesus ples of the restored gospel. “What you are lends authenticity to your invitation to Christ. come experience the joy of the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” “Because of His Atonement, His gift of resurrection will come to all who have ever lived. And Lastly, the Lord designed the Book of Mormon as an instrument of conversion His gift of eternal life will come to all who qualify by fidelity to ordinances and covenants made for this last dispensation. As such, it can be used liberally as convincing evidence in His holy temples.” of Joseph Smith’s prophetic calling and of the divinity and resurrection of Jesus Focus on Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Truly hear, hearken to and heed the Christ. “Its exposition of our Heavenly Father’s plan of redemption is unequaled.” words of the Savior. Continue to make homes “true sanctuaries of faith” and seek blessings Everyone is worthy of an invitation to learn of the restoration of the gospel of through the Church’s study curriculum, “Come, Follow Me.” Jesus Christ, and “the Lord is pleased with every effort we make, no matter the “We will be strengthened as we become even more valiant disciples of the Lord, standing up outcome.” and speaking up for Him, wherever we are.” Redemption through Jesus Christ is the ultimate promise of the restoration. Even at a moment when temples are closed, draw upon the power of one’s temple cove- Because of His resurrection, “the restoration has meaning, our mortal lives have nants. meaning, and ultimately our very existence has meaning.” As the restoration continues, God will continue to reveal many great and important things.