May 2005 Ensign

THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • MAY 2005

General Conference Addresses The First Presidency A new portrait of President Gordon B. Hinckley (center); President Thomas S. Monson (left), First Counselor; and President James E. Faust (right), Second Counselor, marks the 10th anniversary of their service together in the First Presidency. They were set apart on March 12, 1995. MAY 2005 • VOLUME 35, NUMBER 5

2 Conference Summary for the 175th 46 Beware of the Evil behind the 91 Strengthen Thy Brethren Annual General Conference Smiling Eyes Elder Robert J. Whetten Elder Neil L. Andersen 94 Be of Good Cheer and Faithful in SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 48 Who’s on the Lord’s Side? Who? Adversity 4 Opening Remarks Elder Robert C. Oaks Elder Adhemar Damiani President Gordon B. Hinckley 51 Perseverance 96 Appreciating the Counsel of Those 6 The Book of Mormon: Another President James E. Faust Who Are Bowed in Years Testament of Jesus Christ—Plain 54 The Sacred Call of Service Elder Stephen B. Oveson and Precious Things President Thomas S. Monson 99 The Tender Mercies of the Lord President Boyd K. Packer 58 Gambling Elder David A. Bednar 10 A Still, Small Voice and a Throbbing President Gordon B. Hinckley 102 Closing Remarks Heart President Gordon B. Hinckley Bishop Richard C. Edgley SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 13 All Thy Children Shall Be Taught 62 Standing in Holy Places GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING Coleen K. Menlove President James E. Faust 104 Glad Tidings from Cumorah 16 Now Is the Time to Prepare 69 One More Susan W. Tanner Elder Russell M. Nelson Elder M. Russell Ballard 107 A Work for Me to Do 19 Constant Truths for Changing Times 72 Faith Is the Answer Julie B. Beck President Thomas S. Monson Elder David E. Sorensen 109 He Knows You by Name Elaine S. Dalton SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 74 What Greater Goodness Can We Know: Christlike Friends 112 Be Thou an Example 23 The Sustaining of Church Officers Kathleen H. Hughes President Thomas S. Monson President Thomas S. Monson 77 Hearts Bound Together 24 Church Auditing Department Elder Henry B. Eyring 64 General Authorities of The Church Report, 2004 of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Robert W. Cantwell 80 The Great Things Which God Has Revealed 116 They Spoke to Us: Making 25 Statistical Report, 2004 President Gordon B. Hinckley Conference Part of Our Lives F. Michael Watson 117 Teachings for Our Time 26 The Virtue of Kindness SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 118 Aaronic Priesthood and Young Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin 84 What Seek Ye? Women Resource Guides 29 The Power of Preach My Gospel Elder L. Tom Perry 121 General Auxiliary Presidencies Elder Richard G. Scott 87 Pornography 121 News of the Church 32 The Worth of Souls Elder Dallin H. Oaks Elder Harold G. Hillam 34 Tithing—a Commandment Even for the Destitute Elder Lynn G. Robbins 36 The Fruits of the First Vision Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf 39 Couple Missionaries: Blessings from Sacrifice and Service Elder Robert D. Hales

PRIESTHOOD SESSION 43 Our Most Distinguishing Feature Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Almighty,” Hymns, no. 72, arr. Wilberg, Conference Summary for the 175th unpublished; “Where Can I Turn for Peace?” Hymns, no. 129, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; Annual General Conference “Do What Is Right,” Hymns, no. 237; “Sing We Now at Parting,” Hymns, no. 156, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. SATURDAY MORNING, APRIL 2, 2005, SUNDAY MORNING, APRIL 3, 2005, GENERAL SESSION GENERAL SESSION SATURDAY EVENING, MARCH 26, 2005, Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Presiding and conducting: President GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING Conducting: President James E. Faust. Gordon B. Hinckley. Invocation: Elder Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Invocation: Elder Earl C. Tingey. Yoshihiko Kikuchi. Benediction: Elder Conducting: Susan W. Tanner. Invocation: Benediction: Elder Robert K. Dellenbach. Shirley D. Christensen. Music by the Amy Engebretsen. Benediction: Ann M. Music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Craig Jessop and Dibb. Music by a Young Women Choir from Craig Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; Mack Wilberg, directors; John Longhurst stakes in Spanish Fork and Salem, Utah; Richard Elliott and John Longhurst, organ- and Clay Christiansen, organists: “Now Let Kristi Frei, director; Linda Margetts, organist: ists: “Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice,” Us Rejoice,” Hymns, no. 3; “Joseph Smith’s “Come, Rejoice,” Hymns, no. 9, arr. Hymns, no. 21; “Redeemer of Israel,” First Prayer,” Hymns, no. 26, arr. Wilberg, Unsworth, unpublished; “An Angel from on Hymns, no. 6, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; unpublished; “What Was Witnessed in the High,” Hymns, no. 13, arr. Margetts, unpub- “God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son,” Heavens?” Hymns, no. 11; “Sweet Is the lished; “Joseph Smith’s First Prayer,” Hymns, Hymns, no. 187, arr. Kasen, unpublished; Work,” Hymns, no. 147; “We Ever Pray for no. 26, arr. Kasen, pub. Jackman; “We Thank “Come, Ye Children of the Lord,” Hymns, Thee,” Hymns, no. 23, arr. Wilberg, unpub- Thee, O God, for a Prophet,” Hymns, no. 19, no. 58; “Teach Me to Walk in the Light,” lished; “Praise to the Man,” Hymns, no. 27, arr. Goates, unpublished; “As Zion’s Youth in Hymns, no. 304; “How Firm a Foundation,” arr. Wilberg, unpublished. Latter Days,” Hymns, no. 256. Hymns, no. 85, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. SUNDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 3, 2005, CONFERENCE RECORDINGS AVAILABLE SATURDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 2, 2005, GENERAL SESSION Recordings of conference sessions are avail- GENERAL SESSION Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. able at distribution centers, generally within Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. two months following conference. Available Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Invocation: Elder Carlos H. Amado. formats include audio and video disc. Invocation: Elder John M. Madsen. Benediction: Elder William W. Parmley. Music Recordings for individuals who are deaf Benediction: Elder W. Rolfe Kerr. Music by a by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Craig (videocassettes with a signing inset) and for combined choir from the Ogden and Logan Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; Linda those with visual impairment (slow-speed Utah Institutes of Religion; Jonathan G. Margetts, organist: “Praise to the Lord, the audiocassette tapes) are available from Woodstock, Jerald F. Simon, and Brent T. Special Curriculum, 50 East North Temple Cottle, directors; Bonnie Goodliffe, organist: Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3200. For “I Need Thee Every Hour,” Hymns, no. 98, more information, call 1-800-453-3860, ext. arr. Simon, unpublished; “As I Search the 2-2477 or 1-801-240-2477. Holy Scriptures,” Hymns, no. 277; “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet,” Hymns, CONFERENCE TALKS ON INTERNET no. 19; “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” Hymns, To access general conference talks on the no. 30, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. Internet in many languages, visit www.lds.org. Click on “Gospel Library” SATURDAY EVENING, APRIL 2, 2005, and “General Conference.” Then select a PRIESTHOOD SESSION language. Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES Invocation: Elder D. Todd Christofferson. For home and visiting teaching messages, Benediction: Elder Francisco J. Viñas. Music please select an address that best meets the by a priesthood choir from Brigham Young needs of those you visit. University; Ronald J. Staheli, director; Clay Christiansen, organist: “Guide Us, O Thou ON THE COVER Great Jehovah,” Hymns, no. 83, arr. Hall, The Church of Jesus Christ Is Organized, unpublished; “An Angel from on High,” 1830, by Joseph Brickey, may not be copied. Hymns, no. 328; “High on the Mountain Top,” Hymns, no. 5; “More Holiness Give CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY Me,” Hymns, no. 131, arr. Staheli, pub. Scenes of general conference in Salt Lake Jackman. City were taken by Craig Dimond, Welden C. Andersen, John Luke, Matthew Reier, Christina Smith, Kelly Larsen, Tamra H. Ratieta, Scott Davis, Les Nilsson, and Robert Payne; in Belgium by Alexander Stroobants; in Korea by Lee MinHee; in Mexico by Sergio Maldonado; in New Zealand by Richard Stephens; in the Philippines by Jaime N. Rivera; and in Spain by Sergio Díez.

2 MAY 2005 • VOLUME 35, NUMBER 5

AN OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY: Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust

QUORUM OF THE TWELVE: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, David A. Bednar

EDITOR: Jay E. Jensen ADVISERS: Monte J. Brough, Gary J. Coleman

MANAGING DIRECTOR: David L. Frischknecht PLANNING AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Victor D. Cave GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Allan R. Loyborg

MAGAZINES EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Richard M. Romney MANAGING EDITOR: Don L. Searle EDITORIAL STAFF: Collette Nebeker Aune, Susan Barrett, Linda Stahle Cooper, Marvin K. Gardner, LaRene Gaunt, Jenifer L. Greenwood, Carrie Kasten, Sally J. Odekirk, Adam C. Olson, Judith M. Paller, Chad Phares, Sara R. Porter, Rebecca M. Taylor, Roger Terry

MANAGING ART DIRECTOR: M. M. Kawasaki ART DIRECTOR: J. Scott Knudsen SPEAKERS LISTED IN TOPIC INDEX Jesus Christ, 6, 10, 26 DESIGN AND PRODUCTION STAFF: C. Kimball Bott, ALPHABETICAL ORDER Activation, 32, 54, 91 Kindness, 26, 74, 91 Thomas S. Child, Colleen Hinckley, Jane Ann Peters, Andersen, Neil L., 46 Addiction, 58, 87 Love, 91, 94 Tadd R. Peterson, Kari A. Todd Ballard, M. Russell, 69 Adversity, 72, 94 Mercy, 99 MARKETING MANAGER: Larry Hiller Beck, Julie B., 107 Agency, 16, 46 Missionary work, 29, 39, 69, PRINTING DIRECTOR: Craig K. Sedgwick DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR: Kris T Christensen Bednar, David A., 99 Atonement, 10, 26 84, 107

© 2005 BY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE, INC. ALL RIGHTS Dalton, Elaine S., 109 Blessings, 34, 99 Morality, 48, 58 RESERVED. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) is published Damiani, Adhemar, 94 Book of Mormon, 6, 10, 80 Obedience, 16, 32, 46, 48, monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Edgley, Richard C., 10 Children, 13, 19 72, 99 Saints, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT Eyring, Henry B., 77 Church growth, 4, 91 Peace, 13, 62, 72, 94, 99 84150-3220, USA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Lake City, Utah, and at additional mailing offices. Faust, James E., 51, 62 Confidence, 94, 99 Perpetual Education Fund, 4 Hales, Robert D., 39 Conversion, 77, 84, 91 TO SUBSCRIBE: By phone, call 1-800-537-5971 to Perseverance, 51 order using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or Hillam, Harold G., 32 Couple missionaries, 39 Plan of salvation, 6, 29 American Express. Online, go to ldscatalog.com. Hinckley, Gordon B., 4, 58, Covenants, 48, 54, 77, 104 Pornography, 87 By mail, send $10 U.S. check or money order to 80, 102 Death, 16 Prayer, 6, 46, 109 Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368. Holland, Jeffrey R., 43 Debt, 19 Preach My Gospel, 29 Hughes, Kathleen H., 74 Divine nature, 109 TO CHANGE ADDRESS: Send both old and new address Preparation, 16, 69 information to Distribution Services at the above Menlove, Coleen K., 13 Duty, 54 Priesthood, 43, 48, 54, 80 address. Please allow 60 days for changes to take Monson, Thomas S., 19, 23, Elderly, 96 Prophets, 96, 104 effect. 54, 112 Example, 39, 112 Repentance, 16, 87, 94 SUBMIT MANUSCRIPTS OR ART TO: cur-editorial- Nelson, Russell M., 16 Faith, 4, 6, 34, 39, 72, 94, 99, Restoration, 10, 43, 84, 109 [email protected] (e-mail) or Ensign Editorial, 50 E. North Temple St., Rm. 2420, Salt Lake City, UT Oaks, Dallin H., 87 102, 109 Sacrifice, 34, 39, 58 84150-3220, USA. Unsolicited material is welcome, Oaks, Robert C., 48 Family history, 19, 77 Scripture study, 6, 29 but no responsibility is assumed. For return, include Oveson, Stephen B., 96 Family home evening, 19 Service, 39, 51, 54, 74, 91, self-addressed, stamped envelope. Packer, Boyd K., 6 First Vision, 36, 80 107 The Ensign can be found on the Internet at Perry, L. Tom, 84 Forgiveness, 32 Smith, Joseph, 36, 80, 104, www.lds.org. Click on “Gospel Library.” Robbins, Lynn G., 34 Friendship, 74 107, 109 Text and visual material in the Ensign may be copied Scott, Richard G., 29 Gambling, 58 Spiritual gifts, 99 for incidental, noncommercial church or home use. Visual material may not be copied if restrictions are Sorensen, David E., 72 God the Father, 80 Teaching, 13, 29, 51, 69 indicated in the credit line with the artwork. Copyright Tanner, Susan W., 104 Gratitude, 4 Temples and temple work, questions should be addressed to Intellectual Property Uchtdorf, Dieter F., 36 Heritage, 112 62, 77, 102 Office, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT Whetten, Robert J., 91 Holiness, 62 84150-3011; e-mail: cor-intellectualproperty@ Temptation, 46, 112 ldschurch.org. Wirthlin, Joseph B., 26 Holy Ghost, 6, 10, 13, 36, Testimony, 10, 13, 36, 69, 96, POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Distribution 46, 99 107, 109, 112 Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126- Home, 62 Tithing, 34, 58 0368, USA. Hope, 94 Trust, 72 CANADA POST INFORMATION: Publication Agreement Humanitarian service, 102 Truth, 19, 102, 112 #40017431 Hypocrisy, 87 Wisdom, 96 Individual worth, 32, 104

MAY 2005 3 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION April 2, 2005 Opening Remarks PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY

Our burden in going forward is tremendous. But our opportunity is glorious.

“Now, my brethren and sisters, the time has come for us to stand a little taller, to lift our eyes and stretch our minds to a greater comprehension and understanding of the grand millennial mission of this The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is a season to be strong. It is a time to move forward without hesitation, knowing well the meaning, the breadth, and the importance of our mission. It is a time to do what is right regardless of the consequences that might follow. It is a time to be found keeping the commandments. It is a season to reach out with kindness and love to those in distress and to y beloved brothers and sisters, those who are wandering in darkness on behalf of the worldwide and pain. It is a time to be considerate Mmembership of this Church, I and good, decent and courteous extend to our Catholic neighbors and toward one another in all of our rela- quorum presidency; of every auxiliary friends our heartfelt sympathy at this tionships. In other words, to become presidency; and of every faithful, time of great sorrow. Pope John Paul II more Christlike” (“This Is the Work of active member of the Church across has worked tirelessly to advance the the Master,” Ensign, May 1995, 71). the world. cause of Christianity, to lift the burdens You must be the judge of how far we To each of you, wherever you may of the poor, and to speak fearlessly in have come in realizing the fulfillment of be, I express the feelings of my heart behalf of moral values and human that invitation given 10 years ago. and thank you for your great and dignity. He will be greatly missed, par- This past decade has been a won- dedicated service. What wonderful ticularly by the very many who have derful season in the history of the people you are. looked to him for leadership. Church. There has been a remarkable The majesty and the wonder of Now, my brothers and sisters, I flowering of the work. There have been the gospel of Jesus Christ restored think it appropriate that in opening many meaningful accomplishments. through the Prophet Joseph Smith this conference I give a few words of This forward thrust is not the work shines today with resplendent luster. accountability concerning our stew- of the First Presidency, the Quorum As we stand on the summit of ardship during the past 10 years. of the Twelve, the Seventy, or the these years and look back, we must On March 12, 1995, there was Presiding Bishopric alone. It is the never feel arrogant or proud, but we bestowed upon us the high and sacred result of the faith, the prayers, the can feel humbly grateful for what has responsibility of the Presidency. efforts, the dedicated service of every been accomplished in a variety of In the conference that followed I member of a stake presidency or undertakings. made this statement: high council; of every bishopric and For instance, the Church has grown

4 The image of President Gordon B. Hinckley is projected on a large screen in the Conference Center auditorium as he speaks. across the world until our member- being trained and are moving out of In addition, we have constructed ship outside of North America exceeds the slough of poverty in which they this remarkable hall from which we that in North America. We have and their forebears have lived for gen- speak today, the unique and beauti- become a great international family erations. Their skills are being refined ful Conference Center here in Salt scattered through 160 nations. and their earnings multiplied. Lake City. In these past 10 years more than We have greatly increased the num- With all of this and much more, 500 new stakes have been created ber of temples. In 1995, there were 47. we have reached out across the earth and more than 4,000 new wards and Today, there are 119, with three more to assist those in distress and need branches. Three million new mem- to be dedicated this year. wherever they may be. In the last 10 bers have been added. The Book of Mormon was had in years we have supplied in cash and The enrollment in our education 87 languages in 1995. Today, it is avail- commodities hundreds of millions of system has doubled, increasing by able in 106 languages. dollars in humanitarian aid to those approximately 200,000. For the most Fifty-one million copies of the not of our faith. part, our youth are stronger and more Book of Mormon have been distrib- We have traveled the earth bear- faithful. uted during these past 10 years. ing witness of this, the work of the The Perpetual Education Fund has We have constructed literally thou- Almighty. During these same years been created. We started with nothing sands of buildings across the earth. I personally have traveled nearly a but hope and faith. Today nearly 18,000 They are of a better quality and more million miles visiting some 70 coun- young people are being assisted. They suitable to our needs than those tries. My beloved companion trav- live in 27 different nations. They are previously built. eled with me until a year ago when

MAY 2005 5 she passed away on the 6th of April. It has been lonely since then. Our hope concerning the future is The Book of great and our faith is strong. We know that we have scarcely scratched the surface of that which will come to pass in the years that lie Mormon: Another ahead. I am now in my 95th year. I never dreamed that I would live this long. My life reminds me of a sign that Testament of hung by a rusty staple to a run-down barbed-wire fence in Texas. It read: Jesus Christ Burned out by drought, Drowned out by flud waters, Et out by jackrabbits, Plain and Precious Things Sold out by sheriff, Still here! PRESIDENT BOYD K. PACKER Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles I hope to have the privilege of associating with you, my beloved The Book of Mormon is an endless treasure of wisdom friends and coworkers, for as long as the Lord permits. And I hope that and inspiration, of counsel and correction. service will be acceptable. Our foundation is the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. The authority of the holy priesthood is here, restored under introduction; see also History of the the hands of those who received it Church, 4:461). directly from our Lord. The curtains The first edition of the Book of have been parted, and the God of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus heaven and His Beloved Son have spo- Christ came off the press in Palmyra, ken to the boy prophet Joseph in New York, in March of 1830. Joseph opening this last and final dispensation. Smith—an uneducated country boy— Our burden in going forward is had just passed his 24th birthday. The tremendous. But our opportunity is year before, he had spent a total of glorious. about 65 days translating the plates. I now repeat what I said 10 years Almost half of it was after he had ago, let us “stand a little taller, . . . lift received the priesthood. The print- our eyes and stretch our minds to a ing had taken seven months. greater comprehension and under- When I first read the Book of standing of the grand millennial mis- Mormon from cover to cover, I read sion of this The Church of Jesus the promise that if I “would ask God, Christ of Latter-day Saints.” the Eternal Father, in the name of This, my brothers and sisters, is oseph Smith said, “I told the Christ, if [the things I had read were] my invitation to you this morning. I brethren that the Book of true; and if [I would] ask with a extend my love, my blessing, and my JMormon was the most correct sincere heart, with real intent, hav- gratitude as we open this great con- of any book on earth, and the key- ing faith in Christ, he [would] mani- ference. May the Spirit of the Lord stone of our religion, and a man fest the truth of it unto [me], by the direct all that occurs is my humble would get nearer to God by abid- power of the Holy Ghost” (Moroni prayer, in the sacred name of Jesus ing by its precepts, than by any 10:4). I tried to follow those instruc- Christ, amen. ■ other book” (Book of Mormon tions, as I understood them.

6 If I expected a glorious manifestation to come at once as an overpow- ering experience, it did not happen. Nevertheless, it felt good, and I began to believe. The next verse has an even greater promise: “By the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:5; emphasis added). I did not know how the Holy Ghost worked, even though the Book of Mormon explains it a number of times in a number of ways. I studied and learned that “angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ.” It said, as well, that one is to “feast upon the words of Christ; [with the promise that] the I found that the scriptures had I found these scriptures to be plain words of Christ will tell you all things answers to things I needed to know. and precious. I wondered how young what ye should do” (2 Nephi 32:3). I read, “Now these are the words, Joseph Smith could have such in- And it says plainly that “if ye can- and ye may liken them unto you and sights. The fact is I do not believe he not understand . . . it will be because unto all men” (2 Nephi 11:8; empha- had such penetrating insights. He did ye ask not, neither do ye knock” sis added; see also 1 Nephi 19:23–24; not have to have them. He just trans- (2 Nephi 32:4). 2 Nephi 6:5; 11:2). I took that to lated what was written on the plates. I also read, “If ye will enter in by mean that the scriptures are likened Such plain and precious insights the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, to me personally, and that is true of are everywhere in the Book of it will show unto you all things what everyone else. Mormon. They reflect a depth of wis- ye should do” (2 Nephi 32:5). I had When a verse I had passed over dom and experience that is certainly already done that when I was con- several times took on personal mean- not characteristic of a 23-year-old. firmed a member of the Church by ing, I thought whoever wrote that I learned that anyone, anywhere, the “laying on of hands for the gift verse had a deep and mature under- could read in the Book of Mormon of the Holy Ghost” (Articles of standing of my life and how I felt. and receive inspiration. Faith 1:4). For example, I read that the Some insights came after read- If I had expected in my little-boy prophet Lehi partook of the fruit of ing a second, even a third time and innocence some special spiritual expe- the tree of life and said, “Wherefore, seemed to be “likened” to what I rience, it had not happened. Over the I began to be desirous that my family faced in everyday life. years as I listened to sermons and should partake of it also; for I knew I mention another plain and pre- lessons and read in the Book of that it was desirable above all other cious insight that did not come with Mormon, I began to understand. fruit” (1 Nephi 8:12). I had read that the first reading in the Book of Nephi had been very badly treated more than once. It did not mean Mormon. When I was 18 years old, I by his brothers and reminded them much to me. was inducted into the military. While that an angel had spoken unto them, The prophet Nephi also said that I had no reason to wonder about it “but ye were past feeling, that ye he had written “the things of my soul before, I became very concerned if it could not feel his words” (1 Nephi . . . for the learning and the profit of was right for me to go to war. In time, 17:45). When I understood that the my children” (2 Nephi 4:15). I had I found my answer in the Book of Holy Ghost could communicate read that before, and it did not mean Mormon: through our feelings, I understood all that much to me, either. But later “They [the Nephites] were not why the words of Christ, whether when we had children, I understood fighting for monarchy nor power but from the New Testament or the Book that both Lehi and Nephi felt just as they were fighting for their homes and of Mormon or the other scriptures, deeply about their children as we feel their liberties, their wives and their carried such a good feeling. In time, about our children and grandchildren. children, and their all, yea, for their

MAY 2005 7 rites of worship and their church. give unto men weakness that they unto the children of men? Or has he “And they were doing that which may be humble; and my grace is suffi- withheld the power of the Holy Ghost they felt was the duty which they owed cient for all men that humble them- from them? Or will he, so long as time to their God; for the Lord had said selves before me; for if they humble shall last, or the earth shall stand, or unto them, and also unto their fathers, themselves before me, and have faith there shall be one man upon the face that: Inasmuch as ye are not guilty of in me, then will I make weak things thereof to be saved? the first offense, neither the second, ye become strong unto them” (Ether “Behold I say unto you, Nay; for it shall not suffer yourselves to be slain 12:25–27; emphasis added). is by faith that miracles are wrought” by the hands of your enemies. Life moves all too fast. When you (Moroni 7:35–37). “And again, the Lord has said that: feel weak, discouraged, depressed, or Pray always—alone and with Ye shall defend your families even afraid, open the Book of Mormon and your family. Answers will come in unto bloodshed. Therefore for this read. Do not let too much time pass many ways. cause were the Nephites contending before reading a verse, a thought, or a A few words or a phrase in a with the Lamanites, to defend them- chapter. verse, such as “wickedness never selves, and their families, and their My experience has been that a testi- was happiness” (Alma 41:10), will lands, their country, and their rights, mony does not burst upon us sud- tell you of the reality of the evil one and their religion” (Alma 43:45–47). denly. Rather it grows, as Alma said, and how he works. Knowing this, I could serve will- from a seed of faith. “It will strengthen “For after this manner doth the ingly and with honor. your faith: for ye will say I know that devil work, for he persuadeth no man Another example: We once had a this is a good seed; for behold it to do good, no, not one; neither do his major decision to make. When our sprouteth and beginneth to grow” angels; neither do they who subject prayers left us uncertain, I went to see (Alma 32:30). If you nourish it, it will themselves unto him” (Moroni 7:17). Elder Harold B. Lee. He counseled us grow; and if you do not nourish it, it Generations of the prophets to proceed. Sensing that I was still will wither (see Alma 32:37–41). taught the doctrines of the everlasting very unsettled, he said, “The problem Do not be disappointed if you have gospel to protect “the peaceable fol- with you is you want to see the end read and reread and yet have not lowers of Christ” (Moroni 7:3). from the beginning.” Then he quoted received a powerful witness. You may Mormon saw our day. He issued this verse from the Book of Mormon, be somewhat like the disciples spo- this warning: “Except the Lord doth “Dispute not because ye see not, for ken of in the Book of Mormon who chasten his people with many afflic- ye receive no witness until after the were filled with the power of God tions, yea, except he doth visit them trial of your faith” (Ether 12:6). in great glory “and they knew it not” with death and with terror, and with He added, “You must learn to walk (3 Nephi 9:20). famine and with all manner of pesti- a few steps ahead into the darkness, Do the best you can. Think of this lence, they will not remember him” and then the light will turn on and go verse: “See that all these things are (Helaman 12:3). before you.” That was a life-changing done in wisdom and order; for it is When the Lord visited the experience from one verse in the not requisite that a man should run Nephites, they asked what “[they Book of Mormon. faster than he has strength. And again, should] call this church; for there Haven’t you felt at times like Nephi, it is expedient that he should be dili- [were] disputations among the peo- who said, “I was led by the Spirit, not gent, that thereby he might win the ple concerning this matter. knowing beforehand the things which prize; therefore, all things must be “. . . The Lord said unto them: . . . I should do”? (1 Nephi 4:6). Haven’t done in order” (Mosiah 4:27). why is it that the people should you at times felt very weak? The spiritual gifts described in the murmur and dispute because of Moroni felt weak and afraid Book of Mormon are present in the this thing? that they “shall mock at our words Church today—promptings, impres- “Have they not read the scriptures, [because of our weakness]. sions, revelations, dreams, visions, vis- which say ye must take upon you the “. . . The Lord spake unto [him], itations, miracles. You can be sure that name of Christ, which is my name? saying: Fools mock, but they shall the Lord can, and at times does, mani- For by this name shall ye be called at mourn; and my grace is sufficient for fest Himself with power and great the last day” (3 Nephi 27:3–5). the meek, that they shall take no glory. Miracles can occur. The central purpose of the Book advantage of your weakness; Mormon said: “Has the day of mir- of Mormon is its testament of Jesus “And if men come unto me I will acles ceased? Christ. Of more than 6,000 verses in show unto them their weakness. I “Or have angels ceased to appear the Book of Mormon, far more

8 than half refer directly to Him. So, “we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins” (2 Nephi 25:26). The Book of Mormon is an endless treasure of wisdom and inspiration, of counsel and correction, “adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest [among us]” (D&C 89:3). At once, it is rich in nourishment for the most learned, if they will humble themselves (see 2 Nephi 9:28–29). From the Book of Mormon we learn about: The plan of salvation or “the great plan of happiness” (Alma 42:8; see also Alma 42:5, 8, 12, 30). The doctrine of Christ and the Atonement (see 2 Nephi 31:2–21; 32:1–6; 3 Nephi 11:31–40; 27:13–21). Why death is necessary (see 2 Nephi 9:4–6; Mosiah 16:8–9; Alma 12:25–27). Life after death in the spirit world President Gordon B. Hinckley; President Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the (see Alma 40:11–14). First Presidency; and President James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First The workings of the evil one (see Presidency, greet members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 2 Nephi 2:27; Alma 28:13; 3 Nephi 2:2). The order of the priesthood (see another testament of Jesus Christ. them” (D&C 121:16). They face very Mosiah 29:42; Alma 4:20; 5:3, 44; This year we celebrate the 175th stern penalties, indeed. Alma 13:1–10). anniversary of the organization of the We do not have to defend the Sacramental prayers (see Moroni Church and the 200th anniversary of Prophet Joseph Smith. The Book of 4:3; 5:2). the birth of the Prophet Joseph Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus A sure way to judge between good Smith. In the Church, much will be Christ will defend him for us. Those and evil (see Moroni 7:16). written and said to honor him. who reject Joseph Smith as a prophet How to retain a remission of your As usual, there will be much said and revelator are left to find some sins (see Mosiah 4:26). and written to discredit him. There other explanation for the Book of Clear, prophetic warnings and always were, are now, and ever will be Mormon. many, many other things pertaining to those who stir into 200-year-old dust, And for the second powerful the redemption of man and to our hoping to find something Joseph is defense: the Doctrine and Covenants, lives. All are parts of the fulness of the alleged to have said or done in order and a third: the Pearl of Great Price. gospel (see D&C 20:9). to demean him. Published in combination, these scrip- The Book of Mormon confirms the The revelations tell us of “those tures form an unshakable testament teachings of the Old Testament. It that shall lift up the heel against mine that Jesus is the Christ and a witness confirms the teachings of the New anointed, saith the Lord, and cry they that Joseph Smith is a prophet. Testament. It restores “many plain have sinned when they have not And I join the millions of others and precious things” (1 Nephi 13:28) sinned before me, saith the Lord, but who have that testimony, and bear it lost or taken from them (see also have done that which was meet in to you in the name of Jesus Christ, 1 Nephi 13:20–42; 14:23). It is in truth mine eyes, and which I commanded amen. ■

MAY 2005 9 evening adult session, this man came rushing to the podium and, thumping A Still, Small Voice his chest, excitedly declared, “My heart is throbbing just like this. I can hardly contain it in my body. I don’t know if I can wait the four weeks for and a Throbbing my family to be baptized.” I suggested he ought to slow down his heart and wait for his wife and children, so all could be baptized together. Heart When Elijah was fleeing for his life BISHOP RICHARD C. EDGLEY from the wicked Phoenician princess First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric Jezebel, the Lord directed him to a high mountain, where he had a most unusual experience. As Elijah stood It is a still, small voice and a throbbing heart that testifies upon the mount before the Lord, he of the miracle of the Restoration. felt “a great and strong wind . . . ; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: and after priesthood leadership session, an the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was African man entered the chapel and not in the fire: and after the fire a still sat down by the aisle. He looked small voice” (1 Kings 19:11–12). vaguely familiar, but I couldn’t remem- I am occasionally asked by those ber where I might have seen him. not of our faith why it is that our I leaned over and asked the stake Church grows so rapidly, in both president who the man was. The stake membership and activity, while other president answered, “Oh, he is not a churches are reportedly declining in member of the Church. He is a visiting both. The answer to that question is professor from Africa teaching at a simply a still, small voice and then a prestigious university in the area. A throbbing heart. In this busy, tumul- few months ago he attended some tuous, and noisy world, it is not like a kind of scientific seminar in Salt Lake wind, it is not like a fire, it is not like City. He picked up a pamphlet about an earthquake; but it is a still, small, the Church, which led him to read but a very discernible voice, and it everything he could find about the causes a throbbing heart. It is a Church. He now attends every meet- quiet burning within that this is the n 1995 I was invited to give a wel- ing possible.” Half in jest, the stake restored gospel of Jesus Christ, with come and some opening remarks president then said, “I would be sur- all of its doctrine, priesthood, and Iat a scientific seminar in Salt Lake prised if he were not attending Relief covenants that had been lost through City on the subject of child nutrition. Society meetings.” the many centuries of darkness and Ninety-six scientists from 24 countries After the priesthood leadership confusion. Yes, it is a still, small voice attended. As I surveyed the audience meeting, I reintroduced myself to the and a throbbing heart that testifies of during my remarks, I was impressed visiting professor. He affirmed his the miracle of the Restoration. by the many nations represented, as excitement for this newly discovered It is a still, small voice and a throb- evidenced by their dress, skin color, source of truth. He explained that his bing heart that motivates millions of language, and other distinguishing family, still in Africa, was studying members to emulate the life of Jesus features. with the missionaries and would be in word, deed, and service. It is a still, Three or four months later I joining him in America in about four small voice and a throbbing heart attended a stake conference on the weeks, at which time they would all that motivates thousands of retired East Coast of the United States. As I be baptized together. couples to serve missions, usually for sat on the stand in preparation for the At the conclusion of the Saturday 18 months or longer. They put aside

10 the comforts of life to go into the born of God?” And then: “Have ye priesthood, covenants, and purity of world, serving others at their own received his image in your counte- doctrine. My heart throbs when I con- expense and at what some would nances? Have ye experienced this sider what this boy prophet endured consider substantial sacrifice, often mighty change in your hearts?” to bring about the fulness of the serving in remote parts of the world (Alma 5:14; emphasis added). In restored gospel. While heavenly angels where a hot shower and a comfort- other words, is your heart throbbing were descending, Satan’s angels were able bed are luxuries that linger only with a testimony of Jesus Christ? also at work. The persecutions began, in their memories. May I tell you just three things of and like the lives of prophets of old, It is a still, small voice and a throb- many that cause my heart to throb? Joseph’s life culminated in his martyr- bing heart that causes hundreds of First, my heart throbs with the knowl- dom. Throughout all his trials and thousands of young men and women edge that Jesus Christ is my personal persecutions, the young prophet to leave promising professions, put Savior and that His love for me was remained steadfast and determined. off their education (sometimes leaving sufficient that He would suffer un- Because of the Prophet Joseph athletic and other scholarships), or imaginable pain and even death. My Smith, I understand more fully the delay romances to serve the Lord at heart throbs when in the solitude of magnitude of Christ’s Atonement. their own expense to declare the my deep thoughts I realize I can Because of the Prophet Joseph, I bet- Restoration of the gospel. It is a still, be cleansed, purified, and redeemed ter understand the significance of the small voice and a throbbing heart that through the blood of Jesus Christ. Garden of Gethsemane––a place of gives our young people the desire and My heart throbs when I contemplate great suffering as Christ assumed our courage to stand for purity, honesty, the price that was paid––the suffering personal suffering not only for our and principle, even at the expense incurred to spare me of similar per- sins, but also for our pains, infirmities, of sometimes being ridiculed and sonal suffering for my sins and trials, and tragedies. I understand the rejected. It is a still, small voice and a transgressions. infinite and eternal nature of His great throbbing heart that motivates one to Second, my heart throbs with the and last sacrifice. I better understand joyfully keep God’s commandments knowledge that a young boy, only 14 the love our Savior exemplified in His and share the burdens of those less years of age, went into a grove of trees last redeeming act. Because of Joseph fortunate. Yes, there is power in a still, and from a simple, humble prayer the Smith, my love and gratitude for the small voice and a throbbing heart. heavens opened, God and Christ Savior is magnified and my worship Alma had his way of asking about appeared, and angels descended. And more meaningful. Among the many the spiritual condition of our hearts. thus, the fulness of the gospel of Jesus hymns in our hymnbook written by He asks, “Have ye spiritually been Christ was restored with all of its W. W. Phelps is the familiar song with

MAY 2005 11 the words “Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah!” (“Praise to the Man,” Hymns, no. 27). My heart throbs as I sing that song. Yes, because we sing with enthusi- asm and gusto, “Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah!” we sing about the Savior with even more reverence, emotion, and gratitude with the words “Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me / Enough to die for me! / Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me!” (“I Stand All Amazed,” Hymns, no. 193). My heart throbs because of the enlightenment the Prophet Joseph brought to my life regarding the personal effect of the Atonement of my Savior. Third, my heart throbs as I study and ponder the sacred scriptures in the Book of Mormon, as it comple- ments the Bible and further testifies of the divinity of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Redeemer and Savior of the world. Because of this sacred companion to the Bible, my understanding of Christ’s doctrine is expanded; thus many of the questions left un- answered in the Bible are explained to my full satisfaction. The Book of Mormon is tangible evidence that Joseph is a prophet of God, Christ evidence of the Restoration and that Like Alma of old, each of us, mem- did in reality appear to him, and the Joseph Smith was a true prophet. bers and sincere investigators alike, gospel has been restored in its purity In speaking of this sacred knowl- can know with surety that these things and its fulness. edge, the Book of Mormon prophet are true. It is our great privilege to My heart throbs just to contem- Alma testifies: know. It is more than a privilege; it is plate the miracle of the Book of “Do ye not suppose that I know of our responsibility to know. It is our Mormon’s existence––the laborious these things myself? Behold, I testify enormous loss to not know when job of engraving on metal plates, unto you that I do know that these such a privilege is given. The Lord has the careful custodianship through things whereof I have spoken are said, “Knock, and it shall be opened the centuries by God’s chosen, and true. And how do ye suppose that I unto you” (Matthew 7:7). The Book of the miraculous translation. Truly it know of their surety? Mormon prophet Jacob says, “Come fits the perfect definition of holy writ. “Behold, I say unto you they are with full purpose of heart” (Jacob 6:5). Because of God’s majestic love for made known unto me by the Holy We do not need to rely upon intellect us, He provided this evidence that Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted or our physical senses. We study, we we can handle, we can peruse, we and prayed many days that I might pray, and, like Alma of old, we may can study, and we can even challenge. know these things of myself. And even fast, and then comes a still, But, most important, God loves me now I do know of myself that they small voice and a throbbing heart. enough that He will give me and any- are true; for the Lord God hath Imagine a personal revelation from one else who sincerely seeks a per- made them manifest unto me by God that these things are true. The very sonal revelation of the truthfulness of his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit thought of it makes my heart throb. the Book of Mormon––the tangible of revelation” (Alma 5:45–46). In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

12 The painting includes several figures in the background, none of All Thy Children whom are looking directly at Christ. The Lord is in their midst, yet only one man sees Him as such. All the others appear to be going about their Shall Be Taught daily business, oblivious to the great COLEEN K. MENLOVE power of Jesus and the miracle about to occur in their presence. A young Recently Released Primary General President child and a woman, perhaps his mother, are in view of Jesus; yet like Children need to know that having faith in the Savior the others, their eyes are focused and following Him will help them receive peace elsewhere. In the very presence of the Savior, this woman fails to direct the in this troubled world. child to the Savior. I wonder, would we, too, have missed this opportunity to come unto Christ? Are life’s experiences distracting us and dulling our Unknowingly, we may look beyond spiritual view so we are not focusing the children in our own midst. Are on that which matters most? I won- we really aware of the perilous cir- der, do we miss opportunities to cumstances surrounding our own learn of the Lord and feel His love? children? We can usually determine if Do we miss opportunities to share their physical needs are met, but what with others—especially children— about their spiritual needs? Do they that which matters most, the gospel know of the light and peace of the of Jesus Christ? We have all seen gospel of Jesus Christ? The scriptures children and youth standing in the teach, “All thy children shall be taught crowds confused and wanting to of the Lord; and great shall be the know what matters most. peace of thy children.”1 I can almost hear this child and Children need the peace that other children crying out the words comes from knowing they have a so many of us have sung, “Teach me loving Heavenly Father, who sent His to walk in the light.” Remember the Son, Jesus Christ, to bring light and words: hope into the world. It is up to us as ecent disasters around the adults to direct children to that peace Teach me to walk in the light of his world have touched our hearts. and light. love; RThe suffering children, who are The spiritual plight of some chil- Teach me to pray to my Father innocent victims, weigh particularly dren in the world today is depicted above; heavy upon us. We have seen children in a painting by the Danish artist Carl Teach me to know of the things that without family members to provide, Bloch. This painting beautifully illus- are right; protect, and love them. Our hearts trates a scriptural account found in Teach me, teach me to walk in the desire to reach out and help in some John, chapter 5. Christ, the healer and light.2 way—any way that would relieve their comforter, is the focus of the paint- suffering and bring hope to their lives. ing. He is lifting a covering from a Are we teaching our children to We are grateful for the opportunities man who has had infirmities since know, feel, and rejoice in the beauty, we have to give assistance. We are birth. The man is waiting for the mira- power, and miracles of the gospel of encouraged by the efforts of many cle of healing in the pool of Bethesda, Jesus Christ? President Gordon B. who are helping these children. but he has no one to assist him. As Hinckley has counseled: “Let us nur- However, we do not need to look the man waits, hoping for a miracle, ture our children concerning Him far to find children who live in differ- Christ stands in his presence with the whom we call the Lord Jesus Christ. ent yet challenging circumstances. power to heal him. Let us teach our children the grand

MAY 2005 13 was transfigured and beheld God with his spiritual eyes. After Moses had been taught of God and had beheld His glory and work, Satan came to Moses with darkness and confusion. Because Moses had experienced the light and glory of God, he knew the difference. He stood boldly against Satan saying, “Who art thou? For behold I am a son of God.”4 Children need to be filled with the light of the gospel so when temptation comes they can say: “I know who I am. I am a child of God. I know what I am to do. I am to be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, and keep the commandments.” Then children can say: “I know who I can become. I can become a righteous young woman,” or, “I can become a righteous young man and receive the priesthood of God.” Children filled with this knowledge and light can make the decision to reject darkness and turn to the light and peace of the gospel. Children who have the gospel tucked into their hearts recognize the hand of the Lord in their lives. Children know more than we sometimes suppose and can do more than we sometimes think. I have learned saving principles of the gospel.”3 evening, you are following the exam- that children who have the light of Children need to know that having ple of the Savior by loving and teach- the gospel are believing. They do faith in the Savior and following Him ing them. As you do this, let them not doubt. Samantha, age 11, said, will help them receive peace in this know that together your family is “I know the gospel is true because I troubled world. striving to keep the commandments can feel it.” Three-year-old Benjamin How do we teach our children? We and to be worthy to be an eternal said, “I know Heavenly Father hears can follow the example of the Savior. family. It may be during the informal and answers my prayers because He In the Book of Mormon we read of one-on-one times that the Spirit will loves me.” Children who have the the resurrected Savior’s appearance prompt us to ask just the right ques- light of the gospel say, “I know the to those in the Western Hemisphere. tions or to say just the right thing to Holy Ghost is directing my life While teaching the people, He gath- help our children know and feel the because I feel happy when I choose ered the children to Him. He knelt light of the Lord. If we make the to follow its promptings.” and prayed with the children and for opportunities, the Spirit will guide us. Sam is beginning to understand them. He blessed the children one by We have wonderful, capable chil- the feelings that come from the Holy one. He felt the joy of their presence dren in our midst. We can help them Ghost. When his mother asked, “Who and opened the heavens that the chil- find peace in this life and in the life is the Holy Ghost?” he said, “It is a dren might be taught from on high. to come. warm feeling inside me.” Sam also As you include children at your Children need to experience the understood that when his little two- family dinner table, as you involve Light of Christ so they can choose the week-old brother was sick, it was the them in daily family prayer and light and resist the darkness. Moses Holy Ghost encouraging him to pray scripture study and in family home had a miraculous experience when he for the Lord’s help.

14 The First Presidency (right) awaits the beginning of a conference session with three members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (from left): Elder David A. Bednar, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, and Elder Henry B. Eyring.

Can you feel the peace of these lands and in many languages. This family, your Primary teachers, and, children? song represents the desire of my most importantly, by Heavenly Father Teaching children requires more heart—that all children will learn to and Jesus Christ. than desire. It requires diligence on walk in the light of the gospel of Jesus Never settle for less than the privi- our part. Earlier I mentioned the Christ. This song begins with a plea leges and blessings God offers you. song “Teach Me to Walk in the Light,” from a child, “Teach me to walk in the The standards you keep in your dress, written by Clara McMaster. Sister light,” and ends with a commitment, your language, and your behavior are McMaster shared with me that while “Gladly, gladly we’ll walk in the light.”5 outward signs of your inward commit- serving on the Primary general board It will take time and effort to teach ment to follow Heavenly Father’s plan she received the assignment to write children, but we must not become for you. a song about teaching children. She distracted or give up. Our children so Your influence upon me is greater found this an especially daunting task need the fulfillment of the promise than you can imagine. Thank you for and prayed to know how to begin and “and great shall be the peace of thy the joy and hope you bring into my complete this assignment. children.”6 Let no child wonder if he heart and the hearts of your Primary After much effort she submitted or she is loved by Heavenly Father leaders and especially your parents. her work, only to be told that it was and Jesus Christ. Let all children know Please remember to express your not yet right. She was not told what who they are, what they are to do, thanks to those who love and teach to change, only to continue the effort and who they can become. you. I know, and I want you to know, until it was right. She was spiritually I am grateful to all who reach out you are a child of God, Heavenly exhausted, not knowing how to pro- to children, who love them and teach Father loves you, and you can pray to ceed. She again sought guidance from them that regardless of their earthly Him anytime, anywhere. Try always the Lord, made changes, and submit- circumstances, they can feel peace in to remember and follow Jesus Christ, ted another edition. This process con- the light of the gospel and receive the and this will bring light and peace into tinued three times until at last she promises of the Lord. your lives now and give you hope for was told it was perfect and she was I would like to speak especially the eternities. Of this I testify in the not to change anything. to the children around the world. I name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ Even though there were many have met some of you here and some NOTES times that Sister McMaster wanted to of you in places such as Africa, the 1. 3 Nephi 22:13. give up, she diligently worked at what Philippines, Korea, and most recently 2. “Teach Me to Walk in the Light,” Children’s Songbook, 177. she had been asked to do and what in Ukraine and Russia. I have visited 3. “Messages of Inspiration from President she hoped would bless the lives of you in Primaries and even in chil- Hinckley,” Church News, Sept. 4, 1999, 2. 4. Moses 1:13. children. Her inspired music has been dren’s hospitals. I hope you know 5. Children’s Songbook, 177. sung by adults and children in many how much you are loved by your 6. 3 Nephi 22:13.

MAY 2005 15 to prepare to meet God. . . . Do not procrastinate the day of your Now Is the Time repentance.”1 The Need to Prepare Now Yet many do procrastinate.2 A to Prepare prophet warns us: “Ye cannot say . . . ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON that I will repent, that I will return to my God. Nay, ye cannot say this; for Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles that same spirit which doth possess your bodies at the time that ye go out Now is the time to prepare to meet God. of this life, that same spirit will . . . pos- 3 Tomorrow may be too late. sess your body in that eternal world.” Another prophet adds, “He that is filthy shall be filthy still; and he that is righteous shall be righteous still.”4 Great is the knowledge that “what- shock and sorrow overwhelmed me. ever principle of intelligence we attain My closest friend, angel mother of our . . . in this life, it will rise with us in 10 children, grandmother of our 56 the resurrection.”5 From the Prophet grandchildren, had been taken from us. Joseph Smith we also learn that “God Dantzel was not only a loved and has . . . a time . . . appointed . . . when loving companion. She was a teacher: He will bring all His subjects, who by her noble example, she taught have obeyed His voice and kept His faith, virtue, obedience, and mercy. commandments, into His celestial She taught me how to listen and to rest. This rest6 is of such perfection love. Because of her, I know all the and glory, that man has need of a blessings that can come to a husband, preparation before he can, according father, and grandfather. to the laws of that kingdom, enter it With deep gratitude, I acknowledge and enjoy its blessings. . . . God has the tremendous outpouring of love given certain laws to the human fam- from dear friends across the world. ily, which, if observed, are sufficient Countless letters, calls, cards, and to prepare them to inherit this rest.”7 other messages have been sent. All Sister Nelson was so prepared! y dear brethren and sisters, tributes expressed loving admiration That glorious goal seems mighty since our last general confer- for her and sympathy for us whom she distant if one is discouraged by worldly Mence, my sweetheart—my left behind. Those messages came in trouble and gloom. I remember beloved wife for 59 years—passed such large numbers that we, regret- when a friend having a difficult day away. While I was at home on a rare fully, were unable to respond to all of exclaimed, “Oh, why was I ever born?” Saturday with no assignment, we had them individually. May I thank each God’s plan answers his question. We worked together. She had washed our and all for your great kindness toward came into this life to acquire a physical clothing. I had helped to carry it, fold us. Thank you so very, very much. Your body. We may fall in love and be mar- it, and put it in place. Then while we expressions have brought much com- ried. We may have children and experi- were sitting on the sofa, holding hands, fort through this time of heartache for ence the trials of mortal life. (Please enjoying a program on television, my our family. We really love dear Dantzel! forgive me for mentioning children precious Dantzel slipped peacefully We miss her! and the trials of life in the same breath. into eternity. Her passing came sud- From her sudden departure we I sense that they are both part of our denly and unexpectedly. Just four days can learn a very important lesson: growing process.) The Church was earlier, our doctor’s report at a routine now is the time to prepare to meet restored—the earth was created—so checkup indicated that her laboratory God. Tomorrow may be too late. that those families could be sealed in tests were good. After my efforts to Prophets through the ages have so holy temples. Otherwise, the whole revive her proved fruitless, feelings of declared: “This life is the time for men earth would be “utterly wasted.”8

16 We came to be tried, to be tested, and to choose.9 Our decisions determine our destiny. We are “free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator . . . , or to choose captivity and death.”10 Those who choose the Lord’s way will likely endure persecution.11 But their reward is certain. Those who prove faithful “shall inherit the kingdom of God, . . . and their joy shall be full forever.”12 Sister Nelson has earned that reward. What comfort that brings to me and our family! Trials and tests apply to rich and poor alike. Years ago, I was asked to perform an operation upon a very wealthy man. A surgical biopsy confirmed that he had an advanced cancer that had spread throughout his body. As I reported this news, his immediate response was to rely upon his wealth. He would go anywhere or do anything to treat his condition. He thought he could buy his way back to health. But he soon passed away. Someone asked, “How much wealth did he leave?” The answer, of course, was, “All of it!” His priorities were set upon things of the world. His ladder of success had been leaning against the wrong wall. I think of him when I read this scripture: “Behold, your days of probation are past; ye have procrasti- nated the day of your salvation until it is . . . too late.”13 In radiant contrast, Sister Nelson Before it, sleeps the unborn hour, God.”15 He gave this simple rule: prepared throughout her life for the In darkness, and beyond thy power: “Except ye abide my law ye cannot time when she would return to God. Behind its unreturning line, attain to this glory.”16 She lived each day as though it were The vanished hour, no longer thine: Now is the time to show reverent her last. She cherished every hour, One hour alone is in thy hands,— respect for one’s physical body. It knowing that time on earth is precious. The NOW on which the shadow serves as the tabernacle for one’s Some people live as if there were stands.14 spirit throughout all eternity. Physical no day of reckoning. Others waste appetites are to be controlled by the today’s time with a disabling fear of How Do We Prepare? will of one’s spirit. We are to “deny tomorrow or a paralyzing preoccupa- Now is the time. But how do we [our]selves of all ungodliness.”17 We tion over mistakes of yesterday. Each prepare? Begin with repentance! are to “forsake all evil and cleave unto of us might well heed the words of a Scripture declares, “If ye have sought all good, [and] live by every word poet, as posted on a sundial: to do wickedly in the days of your which proceedeth forth out of the probation, then ye are found unclean mouth of God.”18 The shadow by my finger cast before the judgment-seat of God; . . . Because of frequent and frightening Divides the future from the past: no unclean thing can dwell with calamities in the world, some people

MAY 2005 17 glory—“to bring to pass the immor- That faith, that hope, that love will tality and eternal life of man”26—can qualify us to come into God’s holy become ours. Of temple marriage presence and, with our eternal com- the Savior declared, “If a man marry panions and families, dwell with Him a wife by my word, which is my law, forever. Of this I testify in the name of and by the new and everlasting Jesus Christ, amen. ■ covenant, . . . [they] shall inherit NOTES thrones, kingdoms, principalities, 1. Alma 34:32–33; see also Alma 13:27. 2. Scripture admonishes each of us to and powers, dominions, . . . exalta- “harden not your hearts any longer; for tion and glory in all things.”27 We behold, now is the time and the day of your salvation; . . . therefore, if ye will are to emulate the example of the repent..., immediately shall the great Lord, to love as He did, to pray as plan of redemption be brought about unto He did, and to endure to the end you” (Alma 34:31). 28 3. Alma 34:34; emphasis added. as He did. 4. Mormon 9:14; see also 2 Nephi 9:15–16; doubt the existence of God. But, D&C 88:27–32, 34–35; 130:2. in fact, He is trying to help us. He Importance of Death in God’s 5. D&C 130:18. 6. In the New Testament, the term rest has revealed these words: “How oft have Eternal Plan been translated from the Greek feminine I called upon you by the mouth of my Death is a necessary component of noun katapausis, which means “the heavenly blessedness in which God dwells.” servants, and by the ministering of our eternal existence. No one knows Thus, rest connotes an element of glory. angels, and by mine own voice, and when it will come, but it is essential 7. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. by the voice of thunderings, and . . . to God’s great plan of happiness.29 Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 54. 8. See D&C 2:1–3; 138:48; Joseph Smith— tempests, . . . earthquakes, . . . great Thanks to the Atonement of the Lord, History 1:39. hailstorms, . . . famines and pesti- eventual resurrection is a reality and 9. See 2 Nephi 9:27; D&C 98:12; Abraham 3:24–26. lences of every kind, . . . and would eternal life is a possibility for all 10. 2 Nephi 2:27. 30 have saved you with an everlasting humankind. That possibility becomes 11. See 2 Timothy 3:12. salvation, but ye would not!”19 a reality as we obey God’s law. He said, 12. 2 Nephi 9:18. 13. Helaman 13:38. His hope for us is eternal life. “Except ye shall keep my command- 14. Henry Van Dyke, “The Sun-Dial at Wells We qualify for it by obedience to ments, . . . ye shall in no case enter College,” in The Poems of Henry Van Dyke covenants and ordinances of the into the kingdom of heaven.”31 (1911), 345. Sundial and poem displayed at Wells College, Aurora, New York. temple— for ourselves, our families, One day we will be judged by the 15. 1 Nephi 10:21. and our ancestors. We cannot be made Lord32 and go to our own mansion 16. D&C 132:21; see also D&C 88:36–39. 20 17. Moroni 10:32; see also 2 Nephi 2:21; perfect without them. We cannot prepared in our Father’s heavenly Mormon 9:28. 33 wish our way into the presence of house. Celestial glory awaits those 18. D&C 98:11. God. We are to obey the laws upon who have been faithful to God’s gentle 19. D&C 43:25. 21 34 20. See D&C 128:15, 18. which those blessings are predicated. commands. 21. See D&C 130:20–21. God’s plan is fair. Even those “who Brothers and sisters, we live to die 22. D&C 137:7. have died without a knowledge of this and we die to live—in another realm. 23. D&C 137:9. 24. See Malachi 3:10; 3 Nephi 24:10. Tithing gospel, who would have received it if If we are well prepared, death brings also prepares people against a future day of they had been permitted to tarry, no terror. From an eternal perspec- vengeance and burning (see D&C 85:3). 25. See Spencer J. Condie, Russell M. Nelson: shall be heirs of the celestial kingdom tive, death is premature only for those Father, Surgeon, Apostle (2003), 104. 22 of God.” His plan is also merciful. who are not prepared to meet God. 26. Moses 1:39; see also Moses 6:59; Joseph He “will judge all men according to Now is the time to prepare. Then, Smith Translation, Genesis 6:62. 27. D&C 132:19; see also D&C 75:5; 101:65. their works, according to the desire when death comes, we can move 28. See 2 Nephi 33:4; 3 Nephi 15:9; 27:21–22; of their hearts.”23 toward the celestial glory that D&C 14:7. Now is the time to enroll our Heavenly Father has prepared for His 29. See Alma 42:8–9. 30. See 1 Corinthians 15:50–54; 1 John 5:11, names among the people of God. faithful children. Meanwhile, for sor- 20; Alma 12:25; Mormon 9:13; D&C 46:14; This we do by paying tithing. He rowing loved ones left behind—such 76:40–42, 50–59; 133:62. 24 31. 3 Nephi 12:20. tithes His people to bless them. as our family and me—the sting of 32. See 1 Nephi 10:20; 2 Nephi 9:41–46; Alma Sister Nelson taught that lesson to death is soothed by a steadfast faith 12:27. our family, over and over again.25 in Christ, a perfect brightness of 33. See John 14:2; D&C 98:18. 34. See D&C 78:7; 131:1–3. Now is the time to align our goals hope, a love of God and of all men, 35. See 2 Nephi 31:20; Mosiah 16:7–8; Moroni with God’s goals. His work and His and a deep desire to serve them.35 7:38–48.

18 I begin with family home evening. We cannot afford to neglect this Constant Truths heaven-inspired program. It can bring spiritual growth to each member of the family, helping him or her to withstand the temptations which are everywhere. for Changing Times The lessons learned in the home are PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON those that last the longest. As President Gordon B. Hinckley and his predeces- First Counselor in the First Presidency sors have stated, “The home is the basis of a righteous life, and no other We, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day instrumentality can take its place nor 2 Saints, must stand up to the dangers which surround us fulfill its essential functions.” Dr. Glenn J. Doman, noted author and our families. and medical authority, wrote: “The newborn child is almost an exact duplicate of an empty . . . computer, although superior to such a computer However, lest we become compla- in almost every way. . . .What is placed cent, may I quote from 2 Nephi in the in the child’s [mind] during the first Book of Mormon: eight years of life is probably there to “At that day shall [the devil] . . . lull stay. . . . If you put misinformation them away into carnal security, that into his [mind] during [this period], they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, it is extremely difficult to erase it.” Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus Dr. Doman added that the most the devil cheateth their souls.”1 receptive age in human life is that Someone has said that our compla- of two or three years.3 cency tree has many branches, and I like this thought: “Your mind is a each spring more buds come into cupboard, and you stock the shelves.” bloom. Let us make certain that our cup- We cannot afford to be complacent. board shelves, and those of our family We live in perilous times; the signs are members, are stocked with the things all around us. We are acutely aware of which will provide safety to our souls the negative influences in our society and enable us to return to our Father that stalk traditional families. At times in Heaven. Such shelves could well be y dear brothers and sisters, television and movies portray worldly stocked with gospel scholarship, faith, both within my view and and immoral heroes and heroines and prayer, love, service, obedience, Massembled throughout the attempt to hold up as role models example, and kindness. world, I seek an interest in your some actors and actresses whose Next, I address the subject of debt. prayers and your faith as I respond to lives are anything but exemplary. Why This is a day of borrowing, a day when the assignment and privilege to speak should we follow a blind guide? Radios multiple credit card offers arrive in to you. blare forth much denigrating music our mailboxes each week. They gen- I begin by expressing commenda- with blatant lyrics, dangerous invita- erally offer a very low rate of interest tion to all of you. In this challenging tions, and descriptions of almost every which may apply for a short period of world, the youth of the Church are type of evil imaginable. time; but what one usually doesn’t the very best ever. The faith, the serv- We, as members of The Church of realize is that after that period has ice, and the actions of our members Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, must expired, the rates increase dramati- are praiseworthy. We are a prayerful stand up to the dangers which sur- cally. I share with you a statement and faith-filled people, ever striving to round us and our families. To aid us in made by President J. Reuben Clark Jr., be decent and honest. We take care of this determination, I offer several sug- who many years ago was a member of each other. We try to show love to our gestions, as well as some examples the First Presidency. Its truth is time- neighbors. from my own life. less. Said he:

MAY 2005 19 “It is a rule of our financial and make this “second” house payment, listen. And to you children, talk to economic life in all the world that one is in danger of losing his house. your mother and to your father. It interest is to be paid on borrowed Avoid the philosophy and ex- may be difficult to realize, but your money. . . . cuse that yesterday’s luxuries have parents have lived through many of “Interest never sleeps nor sickens become today’s necessities. They the same challenges which you face nor dies; it never goes to the hospital; aren’t necessities unless we ourselves today. Often they see the big picture it works on Sundays and holidays; it make them such. Many of our young more clearly than you can. They pray never takes a vacation; it never visits couples today want to begin with for you each day and are entitled to nor travels; it takes no pleasure; it is multiple cars and the type of home the inspiration of our Heavenly Father never laid off work nor discharged Mother and Dad worked a lifetime to in providing you counsel and advice. from employment; it never works on obtain. Consequently, they enter into Mothers, share household duties. It reduced hours. . . . Once in debt, long-term debt on the basis of two is often easier to do everything yourself interest is your companion every salaries. Perhaps too late they find than to persuade your children to help, minute of the day and night; you can- that changes do come, women have but it is so essential for them to learn not shun it or slip away from it; you children, sickness stalks some fami- the importance of doing their share. cannot dismiss it; it yields neither to lies, jobs are lost, natural disasters Fathers, I would counsel you to entreaties, demands, or orders; and and other situations occur, and no demonstrate love and kindness to whenever you get in its way or cross longer can the mortgage payment, your wife. Be patient with your chil- its course or fail to meet its demands, based on the income from two dren. Don’t indulge them to excess, it crushes you.”4 salaries, be made. for they must learn to make their own My brothers and sisters, I’m It is essential for us to live within way in the world. appalled at some of the advertising I our means. I would encourage you to be avail- see and hear advocating home equity Next, I have felt impressed to able to your children. I have heard it loans. Simply put, they are second speak to mothers, to fathers, to sons, said that no man, as death approaches, mortgages on homes. The promotion and to daughters. has ever declared that he wished he for such loans is designed to tempt I would say to each mother, each had spent more time at the office. us to borrow more in order to have father—be a good listener. I love the following example, taken more. What is never mentioned is the Communication is so vital today in from an article entitled “A Day at the fact that, should one be unable to our fast-paced world. Take time to Beach” by Arthur Gordon. Said he:

20 “When I was around thirteen and my brother ten, Father had promised to take us to the circus. But at lunchtime there was a phone call; some urgent business required his attention downtown. We braced ourselves for disappointment. Then we heard him say, ‘No, I won’t be down. It’ll have to wait.’ “When he came back to the table, Mother smiled [and said,] ‘The circus keeps coming back, you know.’ “ ‘I know,’ said Father. ‘But childhood doesn’t.’ ”5 My brothers and sisters, time with your children is fleeting. Do not put off being with them now. Someone put it another way: Live only for tomorrow, and you will have a lot of empty yesterdays today.6 Parents, help your children set goals concerning school and careers. Help your sons learn manners and respect for women and children. Said President Hinckley: “As we train a new generation, so will the world be in a few years. If you are worried about the future, then look to the upbringing of your children.”7 The Apostle Paul’s statement to his beloved Timothy could well apply: “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”8 Parents, live your lives in such a way that your children will find you an example worthy of emulation. I admonish all families: search out your heritage. It is important to know, Orleans and traveled up the Mississippi Because of all the deaths in the as far as possible, those who came River to St. Louis, Missouri, with a area, there were no caskets available— before us. We discover something group of Saints, arriving there in 1849. at any price. The older surviving boys about ourselves when we learn about One of their 11 children, Margaret, dismantled the family’s oxen pens in our ancestors. would become my great-grandmother. order to make crude caskets for the I recall as a boy hearing of the ex- When the family arrived in St. Louis, family members who had passed away. periences of my Miller ancestors. In planning to earn enough money to The nine remaining orphaned the spring of 1848, my great-great- make their way to the Salt Lake Valley, Miller children and the husband of grandparents, Charles Stewart Miller a plague of cholera struck the area. one of the older daughters left St. and Mary McGowan Miller, joined the The Miller family was hard-hit: in the Louis in the spring of 1850 with four Church in their native Scotland, left space of two weeks, mother, father, oxen and one wagon, arriving finally their home in Rutherglen, Scotland, and two of their sons died. My great- in the Salt Lake Valley that same year. and journeyed across the Atlantic grandmother, Margaret Miller, was 13 I owe such a debt of gratitude to Ocean. They reached the port of New years old at the time. these and other noble forebears who

MAY 2005 21 and sent to the boy’s supervisors. Not many days afterward, I came home from work and found Frances in tears. When she was finally able to talk, she told me that she had just learned that the body of the little paperboy had been found in his garage, where he had taken his own life. Apparently the criticism heaped upon him had been too much for him to bear. How grateful we were that we had not joined in that criticism. What a vivid lesson this has always been regarding the impor- A family in the Makati Philippines Stake attends a conference session tance of being nonjudgmental and in their local meetinghouse. treating everyone with kindness. The Savior should be our exam- loved the gospel and who loved the few, and those we missed. Dad then ple. As is recorded of Him, He Lord so deeply that they were willing said to me, ‘Clark,’ he looked at his “increased in wisdom and stature, to sacrifice all they had, including their watch, ‘let’s unload our guns, and and in favour with God and man.”9 own lives, for The Church of Jesus we’ll place them in this ditch. Then He “went about doing good, . . . for Christ of Latter-day Saints. How grate- we’ll kneel down to pray.’ I thought God was with him.”10 ful I am for the temple ordinances Dad would pray for more pheasants, Remember that ofttimes the wis- which bind us together for all eternity. but I was wrong. He explained to me dom of God appears as foolishness to I emphasize how essential is the that Elder Richard L. Evans of the men, but the greatest single lesson we work we do in the temples of the Quorum of the Twelve was gravely ill can learn in mortality is that when Lord for our kindred dead. and that at 12:00 noon on that partic- God speaks and a man obeys, that Just two months ago today, mem- ular Monday the members of the man will always be right. bers of my family gathered together Quorum of the Twelve—wherever May we ever follow the Prince of in the Salt Lake Temple to perform they may be—were to kneel and, in a Peace, who literally showed the way sealings for some of our deceased way, together unite in a fervent prayer for us to follow, for by doing so, we ancestors. This was one of the most of faith for Elder Evans. Removing our will survive these turbulent times. His spiritual experiences our family has caps, we knelt, we prayed.” divine plan can save us from the dan- had together and enhanced the love I well remember the occasion, but gers which surround us on every side. we have for one another and the obli- I never dreamed a son was watching, His example points the way. When gation which is ours to live worthy of was learning, was building his own faced with temptation, He shunned it. our heritage. testimony. When offered the world, He declined Years ago when our youngest son, Several years ago we had a young it. When asked for His life, He gave it. Clark, was attending a religion class at paperboy who didn’t always deliver the Now is the time. This is the place. Brigham Young University, the instruc- paper in the manner intended. Instead May we follow Him, I pray, in the tor, during a lecture, asked him, of getting the paper on the porch, he name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ “Clark, what is an example of life with sometimes accidentally threw it into NOTES your father that you best remember?” the bushes or even close to the street. 1. 2 Nephi 28:20–21. 2. First Presidency letter, Feb. 11, 1999; see The instructor later wrote to me Some on his paper route decided to Liahona, Dec. 1999, 1; Ensign, June 1999, and told me of the reply which Clark start a petition of complaint. One day 80. 3. How to Teach Your Baby to Read (1963, had given to the class. Said Clark: a delegation came to our home and 1964), 43–45. “When I was a deacon in the Aaronic asked my wife, Frances, to sign the 4. In Conference Report, Apr. 1938, 102–3. Priesthood, my father and I went petition. She declined, saying, “Why, 5. See A Touch of Wonder (1974), 77–78. 6. See Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey, pheasant hunting near Malad, Idaho. he’s just a little boy, and the papers are The Music Man (1957). The day was Monday—the last day of so heavy for him. I would never be 7. “Behold Your Little Ones,” Liahona, Mar. the pheasant hunting season. We critical of him, for he tries his best.” 2001, 2; Ensign, June 2001, 2. 8. 1 Timothy 4:12. walked through numerous fields in The petition, however, was signed by 9. Luke 2:52. search of pheasants but saw only a many of the others on the paper route 10. Acts 10:38.

22 SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION April 2, 2005

Barrios, René J. Cabrera, Edison M. Cabrito, Tad R. Callister, Carl B. Cook, The Sustaining Reynaldo L. Cuyong, Jorge L. del Castillo, Benjamin De Hoyos, Lindsay T. Dil, Fred C. Dimaya, Enrique R. Falabella, Roberto Garcia, Larry W. of Church Officers Gibbons, C. Scott Grow, John A. PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON Harris, Merrill F. Higham, R. Randall Huff, Michael L. Jensen, Paul V. First Counselor in the First Presidency Johnson, Won Yong Ko, Wilfredo R. López, Ronald L. Loveland, Jeffrey J. Marchant, Hans H. Mattsson, E. Israel Pérez, Holger D. Rakow, Alfonso Apostles; Boyd Kenneth Packer as Ramos, Carlos C. Revillo Sr., Manfred H. Acting President of the Quorum of Schütze, J. Mitchel Scott, José A. the Twelve Apostles; and the follow- Teixeira da Silva, Lowell M. Snow, ing as members of that quorum: Guillermo Torres, Roland N. Walker. Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. All who wish to join us in express- Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell ing appreciation for the service of Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. these Brethren, please manifest it. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. It is proposed that we release with Holland, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. a vote of thanks and sincere apprecia- Uchtdorf, and David A. Bednar. tion as the Primary general presidency Those in favor please manifest it. Sisters Coleen K. Menlove, Sydney S. Any opposed. Reynolds, and Gayle M. Clegg. It is proposed that we sustain All who can join in a vote of appre- the counselors in the First Presidency ciation please manifest it. and the Twelve Apostles as prophets, It is proposed that we sustain seers, and revelators. Elder Marlin K. Jensen as Church All in favor please manifest it. Historian/Recorder. y brothers and sisters, Contrary, if there be any, by the All in favor please manifest it. President Hinckley has same sign. Any opposed by the same sign. Mrequested that I now present It is proposed that we release the It is proposed that we sustain to you the General Authorities, Area following as Area Seventies effective Benjamin De Hoyos, David F. Evans, Seventies, and general auxiliary presi- May 1, 2005: C. Scott Grow, Richard G. Hinckley, dencies of the Church for your sus- Jorge O. Abad, Carlos E. Agüero, Paul V. Johnson, Paul E. Koelliker, taining vote. Marcos A. Aidukaitis, Gustavo A. Paul B. Pieper, and Ulisses Soares as It is proposed that we sustain Gordon Bitner Hinckley as prophet, seer, and revelator and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints; Thomas Spencer Monson as First Counselor in the First Presidency; and James Esdras Faust as Second Counselor in the First Presidency. Those in favor may manifest it. Those opposed, if any, may manifest it. It is proposed that we sustain Thomas Spencer Monson as Presi- dent of the Quorum of the Twelve

MAY 2005 23 new members of the First Quorum of the Seventy and Won Yong Ko, Wolfgang H. Paul, Lowell M. Snow, and Church Auditing Paul K. Sybrowsky as new members of the Second Quorum of the Seventy. All in favor please manifest it. Any opposed by the same sign. Department It is proposed that we sustain the following as Area Seventies: Nelson L. Altamirano, Manuel Araiz, Sergio E. Avila, Marcelo P. Report, 2004 Bolfarini, Shayne M. Bowen, David R. PRESENTED BY ROBERT W. CANTWELL Brown, Fernando E. Calderon, Managing Director, Church Auditing Department Milton da Rocha Camargo, Daniel M. Cañoles, I. Poloski Cordón, Federico F. Costales Jr., John C. Dalton, Heber O. To the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ Diaz, Luis G. Duarte, Frerich Görts, of Latter-day Saints Ronald J. Hammond, Miguel Hidalgo, Patrick Kearon, Donald J. Keyes, Christiaan H. Kleijweg, Larry R. ear Brethren: The Auditing Church assets. The auditing staff Lawrence, Robert W. Lees, F. Rene Department of the Church consists of certified public account- Loli, Glendon Lyons, Juan A. Machuca, Dis independent of all other ants, certified internal auditors, Raymundo Morales, Brent H. Nielson, Church departments and operations certified information systems Carlos S. Obata, Alejandro M. Robles, and has been granted access to all auditors, and other credentialed Gerardo L. Rubio, Gvido Senkans, records and systems necessary to professionals. Fabian L. Sinamban, Dirk Smibert, evaluate the adequacy of controls As prescribed by revelation in Hans T. Sorensen, Eivind Sterri, over receipts and expenditures of section 120 of the Doctrine and Miguel R. Valdez, Gary W. Walker, funds and the safeguarding of Covenants, the Council on the Richard C. Zambrano. Disposition of the Tithes authorizes All in favor please manifest it. the expenditure of Church funds. Any opposed by the same sign. This council is composed of the First It is proposed that we sustain Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Cheryl Clark Lant as general president Apostles, and the Presiding Bishopric. of the Primary, with Margaret Swensen After receiving authorization to Lifferth as first counselor and Vicki expend Church funds, Church depart- Fujii Matsumori as second counselor. ments administer approved budgets All in favor please manifest it. and expend funds in accordance with Opposed, if any, by the same sign. Church policies and procedures. It is proposed that we sustain Based upon audits performed, the the other General Authorities, Area Church Auditing Department is of the Seventies, and general auxiliary presi- opinion that, in all material respects, dencies as presently constituted. contributions received, expenditures Those in favor please manifest it. made, and assets of the Church for Opposed, if any. the year 2004 have been administered It appears that the sustaining has and recorded in accordance with been unanimous in the affirmative. appropriate accounting practices, Thank you, brothers and sisters, approved budgets, and Church poli- for your continued faith and prayers. cies and procedures. We shall now ask the newly called Respectfully submitted, General Authorities and the Primary Church Auditing Department general presidency to take their Robert W. Cantwell places on the stand. ■ Managing Director ■

24 Prominent Members Who Have Passed Away Statistical Report, since Last April Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; Elder David B. Haight of the 2004 Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; PRESENTED BY F. MICHAEL WATSON Sister Marjorie Pay Hinckley, wife of President Gordon B. Secretary to the First Presidency Hinckley, President of the Church; Sister Ruby Olson Haight, widow of Elder David B. Haight; Sister rothers and sisters, the First Converts Baptized...... 241,239 Dantzel White Nelson, wife of Presidency has issued the fol- Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Blowing report concerning the Missionaries Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; growth and status of the Church as Full-Time Missionaries...... 51,067 Sister Sarah Melissa Broadbent of December 31, 2004: Paulsen Sorensen, former counselor Temples in the Primary general presidency Number of Church Units Temples Dedicated and wife of Elder Lynn A. Sorensen, Stakes ...... 2,665 during 2004...... 3 former member of the Seventy; Missions...... 338 (Accra Ghana, Copenhagen Sister Naomi Maxfield Shumway, Districts ...... 646 Denmark, and Manhattan former Primary general president; Wards and Branches...... 26,670 New York) Sister Olive Eileen Robinson Temples Rededicated Dunyon Christensen, former Church Membership during 2004...... 2 counselor in the Primary general Total Membership ...... 12,275,822 (Anchorage Alaska and presidency; Sister Joan Blackhurst Increase in Children São Paulo Brazil) Spencer, former Relief Society of Record...... 98,870 Temples in Operation ...... 119 general secretary. ■

First Presidency Expresses Sympathy t the beginning of the Saturday A afternoon session, President Gordon B. Hinckley read the following statement: “We join those throughout the world who mourn the passing of Pope John Paul II, an extraordinary man of faith, vision, and intellect, whose courageous actions have touched the world in ways that will be felt for generations to come. “The Pope’s voice remained firm in defense of freedom, family, and Christianity. On matters of principle and morality he was uncompromising. On his compassion for the world’s poor, he has been unwavering.”

MAY 2005 25 Kind words not only lift our spirits in the moment they are given, but The Virtue they can linger with us over the years. One day, when I was in college, a man seven years my senior congratulated me on my performance in a football of Kindness game. He not only praised how well ELDER JOSEPH B. WIRTHLIN I had done in the game, but he had noticed that I had showed good Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles sportsmanship. Even though this conversation happened more than 60 Kindness is the essence of a celestial life. years ago, and even though it’s highly Kindness is how a Christlike person treats others. unlikely the person who compli- mented me has any recollection of this conversation, I still remember the kind words spoken to me that day by Gordon B. Hinckley, who would later It was remarkable to me that an become President of the Church. unkind word spoken more than four The attributes of thoughtfulness decades earlier could have had such and kindness are inseparably linked a profound effect. But it had. And, as with President Hinckley. When my a consequence, this man had never father passed away in 1963, President returned to church. Neither had his Hinckley was the first person to come wife or children. to our home. I’ll never forget his kind- I apologized to him and expressed ness. He gave my mother a blessing my sorrow that he had been treated and, among other things, promised that way. I told him how unfortunate her that she had much to look for- it was that one word spoken in haste, ward to and that life would be sweet and so long ago, could have the effect for her. These words have brought of excluding his family from the bless- comfort to her and to me, and I’ll ings that come from Church activity. never forget his kindness. “After 40 years,” I told him, “it’s Kindness is the essence of a celes- time the Church made things right.” tial life. Kindness is how a Christlike I did my best to do so. I reassured person treats others. Kindness should any years ago, when I was him that he was welcome and permeate all of our words and actions called as a bishop, I had a needed. I rejoiced when this man at work, at school, at church, and Mdesire for the bishopric to and his family eventually returned to especially in our homes. visit those who were less active in the church and became strong and faith- Jesus, our Savior, was the epitome Church and see if there was anything ful members. In particular, this good of kindness and compassion. He we could do to bring the blessings of brother became an effective home healed the sick. He spent much of His the gospel into their lives. teacher because he understood how time ministering to the one or many. One day we visited a man in his something as small as an unkind word He spoke compassionately to the 50s who was a respected mechanic. could have consequences that extend Samaritan woman who was looked He told me the last time he had been throughout a lifetime and perhaps down upon by many. He instructed His to church was when he was a young beyond. disciples to allow the little children to boy. Something had happened that Kindness is the essence of great- come unto Him. He was kind to all day. He had been acting up in class ness and the fundamental characteris- who had sinned, condemning only the and was being noisier than he should tic of the noblest men and women I sin, not the sinner. He kindly allowed when his teacher became angry, have known. Kindness is a passport thousands of Nephites to come for- pulled him out of class, and told him that opens doors and fashions friends. ward and feel the nail prints in His not to come back. It softens hearts and molds relation- hands and feet. Yet His greatest act He never did. ships that can last lifetimes. of kindness was found in His atoning

26 sacrifice, thus freeing all from the ef- our way to school rejoicing.”1 unkind things we say or do. Nothing fects of death, and all from the effects There is no substitute for kindness exposes our true selves more than of sin, on conditions of repentance. in the home. This lesson I learned how we treat one another in the The Prophet Joseph Smith exem- from my father. He always listened to home. plified kindness in his life to every- my mother’s advice. As a result, he I often wonder why some feel they one, old and young. One child who was a better, wiser, and kinder man. must be critical of others. It gets in benefited from the Prophet’s kind- I have tried to follow my father’s their blood, I suppose, and it becomes ness remembered: example and listen to my wife’s point so natural they often don’t even think “My older brother and I were of view. I value her opinion. For exam- about it. They seem to criticize every- going to school, near to the building ple, when my wife begins a sentence one—the way Sister Jones leads the which was known as Joseph’s brick with the words “I should think you music, the way Brother Smith teaches store. It had been raining the previ- would . . .” I instantly pay attention a lesson or plants his garden. ous day, causing the ground to be and begin searching my mind for Even when we think we are doing very muddy, especially along that something I may have done wrong. no harm by our critical remarks, street. My brother Wallace and I both Ofttimes before my wife has finished consequences often follow. I am got [our feet] in the mud, and could her sentence, I have already planned reminded of a boy who handed a not get out, and of course, child-like, out in my mind a magnificent apology. donation envelope to his bishop and we began to cry, for we thought we In truth, my wife is a model of told him it was for him. The bishop, would have to stay there. But looking kindness, gentleness, and compas- using this as a teaching moment, up, I beheld the loving friend of chil- sion. And her insight, counsel, and explained to the boy that he should dren, the Prophet Joseph, coming to support have been invaluable to me. mark on the donation slip whether it us. He soon had us on higher and Because of her I, too, am a wiser and was for tithing, fast offerings, or for drier ground. Then he stooped down kinder person. something else. The boy insisted the and cleaned the mud from our little, The things you say, the tone of money was for the bishop himself. heavy-laden shoes, took his handker- your voice, the anger or calm of your When the bishop asked why, the boy chief from his pocket and wiped our words—these things are noticed by replied, “Because my father says tear-stained faces. He spoke kind and your children and by others. They you’re one of the poorest bishops cheering words to us, and sent us on see and learn both the kind and the we’ve ever had.”

MAY 2005 27 The Church is not a place where be judged: condemn not, and ye shall perfect people gather to say perfect not be condemned: forgive, and ye things, or have perfect thoughts, or shall be forgiven.”4 He also taught that have perfect feelings. The Church is a “with what judgment ye judge, ye place where imperfect people gather shall be judged: and with what mea- to provide encouragement, support, sure ye mete, it shall be measured to and service to each other as we press you again.”5 on in our journey to return to our “But,” you ask, “what if people Heavenly Father. are rude?” Each one of us will travel a Love them. different road during this life. Each “If they are obnoxious?” progresses at a different rate. Temp- Love them. tations that trouble your brother may “But what if they offend? Surely I not challenge you at all. Strengths must do something then?” that you possess may seem impossi- Love them. ble to another. “Wayward?” Never look down on those who are The answer is the same. Be kind. less perfect than you. Don’t be upset Love them. because someone can’t sew as well as Why? In the scriptures Jude taught, you, can’t throw as well as you, can’t “And of some have compassion, mak- row or hoe as well as you. would because of the contagious ing a difference.”6 We are all children of our Heavenly nature of the disease. Who can tell what far-reaching Father. And we are here with the When he arrived, James found one impact we can have if we are only kind? same purpose: to learn to love Him toddler already dead and two others My brothers and sisters, the gospel with all our heart, soul, mind, and who were in agony from the disease. of Jesus Christ transcends mortality. strength, and to love our neighbor as He immediately went to work, clean- Our work here is but a shadow of ourselves.2 ing the untidy house, preparing the greater and unimaginable things to One way you can measure your young body for burial, cleaning and come. value in the kingdom of God is to ask, providing for the other sick children, The heavens opened to the “How well am I doing in helping oth- spending the entire day doing so. He Prophet Joseph Smith. He saw the liv- ers reach their potential? Do I support came back the next morning to find ing God and His Son, Jesus the Christ. others in the Church, or do I criticize that one more of the children had In our day, a prophet, President them?” died during the night. A third child Gordon B. Hinckley, walks the earth If you are criticizing others, you are was still suffering terribly. He wrote in and provides direction for our time. weakening the Church. If you are his journal: “She clung to my neck, As our Heavenly Father loves us, building others, you are building the ofttimes coughing [germs] on my we also should love His children. kingdom of God. As Heavenly Father is face and clothing, . . . yet I could not May we be models of kindness. kind, we also should be kind to others. put her from me. During the half May we ever live up to the words of Elder James E. Talmage, a man who hour immediately preceding her the Savior: “By this shall all men know is remembered for his doctrinal teach- death, I walked the floor with the lit- that ye are my disciples, if ye have ings, showed great kindness to a tle creature in my arms. She died in love one to another.”7 Of these truths neighbor family in distress. They were agony at 10 A.M.” The three children I bear witness in the sacred name of complete strangers to him. Before he had all departed within the space of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ was an Apostle, as a young father, he 24 hours. He then assisted the family NOTES became aware of great suffering at a with the burial arrangements and 1. Margarette McIntire Burgess, in Juvenile 3 neighbor’s home whose large family spoke at their graveside services. Instructor, Jan. 15, 1892, 66–67. was stricken with the dreaded diph- This he did all for a family of 2. See Mark 12:30–31. 3. See John R. Talmage, The Talmage Story: theria. He did not care that they were strangers. What a great example of Life of James E. Talmage—Educator, not members of the Church; his kind- Christlike kindness! Scientist, Apostle (1972), 112–14. ness and charity moved him to act. When we are filled with kindness, 4. Luke 6:37. 5. Matthew 7:2. The Relief Society was desperately try- we are not judgmental. The Savior 6. Jude 1:22. ing to find people to help, but no one taught, “Judge not, and ye shall not 7. John 13:35.

28 values which form the bedrock foundation of society are being assaulted The Power of by Satan and his allies. There has been an urgent need for an improved way to share the fulness of the truth Preach My Gospel that God has placed on earth again. This includes an understanding of ELDER RICHARD G. SCOTT God’s plan of happiness and of how it has been returned to earth through Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles His singular prophet, Joseph Smith. Also that the Church of Jesus Christ I encourage you to find out how this extraordinary resource with the priesthood authority to act in can help in your missionary efforts. His name is once again on earth in its fulness. Well did President Hinckley teach: “For many years now we have had a standard set of missionary lessons. women as well as some couples are Great good has come of this. . . . But using the resource to get a head start unfortunately this method, in all too before entering the missionary train- many cases, has resulted in a memo- ing centers. Some priesthood leaders rized presentation, lacking in Spirit have confirmed its worth in preparing and in personal conviction. . . . Aaronic Priesthood brethren for mis- “[Missionaries] should master the sions. This tool is invaluable in assist- concepts of the lessons. But they ing priesthood and auxiliary efforts to should . . . teach the concepts in their help new members become stronger own words under the guiding influ- in testimony and obedience. I speak ence of the Holy Spirit.”1 of this new guide, Preach My Gospel, That principle is a foundation pillar and its attendant planning tools, such of Preach My Gospel. Missionaries as this Missionary Daily Planner. throughout the world now get into May I share with you why I am so their minds and hearts the message of enthusiastic about Preach My Gospel? the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus It has focused our missionary effort as Christ, the plan of salvation, essential never before. For years I have asked commandments, and the laws and am very grateful to be able to dis- groups of missionaries, “What is the ordinances of the gospel. These les- cuss with you an exciting develop- purpose of your mission?” Their indi- sons are then given in their own words I ment that will make it easier for vidual responses differed greatly. Most as guided by the Spirit. This focus has each of us to share with loved ones did not have any concrete purpose to dramatically improved the effective- and friends the glorious message of organize their efforts. Page 1 of this ness of missionaries that use it. the Restoration of the Church of guide powerfully focuses missionaries Preach My Gospel contains chap- Jesus Christ. It has ignited the minds on their true purpose: “Invite others ters that give extremely valuable and hearts of our missionaries, for it to come unto Christ by helping information on how to recognize and equips them to teach their message them receive the restored gospel understand the guidance of the Holy with power and to bear testimony through faith in Jesus Christ and His Spirit. There are scriptures on how to of the Lord Jesus Christ and of His Atonement, repentance, baptism, effectively study and how to refine prophet Joseph Smith without the receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, personal teaching skills. One chapter constraint of a prescribed dialogue. and enduring to the end.” The con- explains why the Book of Mormon is Developed primarily for full-time tents then suggest how to do that as the keystone of our religion, how it missionary use, this material has also led by the Spirit. can answer profound questions of the proven to be most beneficial for par- The former missionary materials soul, how it can build faith and help ents who want to help children pre- were effective for their time, but the others draw closer to God. Additional pare for a mission. Young men and world has changed dramatically. The instruction shows how the Book of

MAY 2005 29 share the vision of Joseph Smith while I acted as the investigator. I planned to vigorously challenge them to see how they would respond. Yet the sincerity of their message, the purity of their intent, the skill with which it was delivered, even in a practice session, was so compelling that I could not do it. You can observe this improvement yourself. Invite missionaries to present the first lesson to your family in your home. Better yet, invite neighbors to come to your home to be taught by missionaries. Guided by the Spirit, in their own words they will explain how Father in Heaven has used prophets throughout the ages to communicate His plan of happiness to His children. Feel their testimony as they bear witness of the sublime vision in which God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to Joseph Smith. They will skillfully unfold the subse- quent events that restored the fulness of the gospel, with the authority to act in the name of God, on earth again. You can also accompany missionaries as they teach others these inspiring truths. Your presence will greatly strengthen those who hear these precious truths for the first time. Intensive effort on the part of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve, other General Authorities, Mormon is a tangible resource that the efforts of full-time missionaries, and most capable teams of devoted, an individual can use to confirm stake and ward leaders, and members. experienced staff members produced the truthfulness of our message. A With that help, more new members Preach My Gospel and its planning missionary is taught how to seek can make a more secure transition tools. Those who participated in its Christlike attributes such as hope, into the family of the Church. There development are witnesses of the charity, and love, for love is the foun- is greater assurance that those who, inspired direction of the Lord through dation of all meaningful missionary through baptism and confirmation, the Holy Ghost in the conception, service. Excellent suggestions are take upon themselves the name of framing, and finalization of the materi- given for learning a mission language. Jesus Christ and commit to obey His als in Preach My Gospel. Clear, effective planning tools are pro- commandments will receive His After extensive testing in 14 vided to help a missionary use time promised blessings throughout life. missions, Preach My Gospel was more wisely. Proven methods are Using the inspired content of adjusted. That result was reviewed, shared to identify and prepare indi- Preach My Gospel, many missionaries modified, and approved by the First viduals to teach. Practical guidance is have made dramatic improvements in Presidency and Quorum of the given to help individuals make and their capacity to teach with conviction Twelve. On October 15, 2004, a world- keep commitments that lead to bap- and to invite the confirming witness of wide satellite broadcast introduced tism, confirmation, and retention. the Holy Ghost. Recently I asked two mission presidents and missionary This guide contains tools to integrate assistants to a mission president to leaders to Preach My Gospel. Every

30 missionary throughout the world was given an English copy. While many did not speak English, they felt part of the renewal of our missionary effort. Interestingly, some foreign-language- speaking missionaries were motivated to learn English. Early this year Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese versions of Preach My Gospel were distributed. By the end of the year, we anticipate that the guide will be available in most of the languages spoken by missionaries. Missionaries are not alone in bene- fiting from Preach My Gospel: Missionaries from the New Zealand Auckland Mission await investigators before • One mission president’s wife a conference broadcast at the Auckland New Zealand Harbour Stake Center. studied and pondered every word in Preach My Gospel, including every materials in your presidencies, priest- Preach My Gospel is available to any scriptural reference. She then did hood executive committee meetings, leader or member through Church something she had lacked the and ward councils to assure that those distribution. courage to do—she invited a close who take upon themselves the cove- Probably the greatest benefit of relative to study and ponder the Book nants of baptism receive throughout Preach My Gospel will be seen in the of Mormon. That individual accepted their lives the full fruits of Church mem- lives of returned missionaries, who her invitation and has been greatly bership. Through the use of the new will be stronger parents, more able benefited. Progress Record for individuals prepar- Church leaders, and better profes- • Another family uses Preach My ing for baptism, missionary and member sionals because of the growth that Gospel to help prepare their children efforts can be powerfully coordinated. I comes from understanding and apply- for missions. They reported: “Our am confident that more new converts ing its inspired content. 17-year-old was the first to get an will find it easier to fulfill their desire to On behalf of our missionaries assignment. As expected, he looked remain active, as members and mission- worldwide, we express profound for the shortest segment in the book. aries work together using the princi- gratitude to all who have participated His lesson, however, was a 20-minute ples in Preach My Gospel. in the preparation, printing, and dis- heartfelt expression of the principles, The First Presidency message in tribution of Preach My Gospel. We complete with scriptures and Preach My Gospel provides great are grateful for each mission presi- testimony.” motivation to missionaries. Perhaps it dent and missionary who is master- • From a father preparing a son will encourage you in your own mis- ing its effective use. Ultimately we for missionary service: “Preach My sionary efforts. It states: “There is no are grateful to the Lord for His inspi- Gospel has . . . given me perspective more compelling work than this. . . . ration. I encourage you to find out and clearer understanding of the pur- Preach My Gospel is intended to help how this extraordinary resource can pose of life, my duties and responsi- you be a better-prepared, more spiri- help in your missionary efforts, bilities as a member of the Church, as tually mature missionary and a more either as a parent preparing a child a father, and as a husband. . . . It has persuasive teacher. . . . We challenge for a mission, a Church leader help- also given me concrete tools to better you to rise to a new sense of commit- ing new converts, a member sharing pursue that journey.” His son was ment to assist our Father in Heaven in the gospel, or an individual getting called to be a missionary yesterday. His glorious work. . . . The Lord will ready to serve. May the Savior bless Much good has been accomplished reward and richly bless you as you and inspire you as you do so, for He in the brief seven months since humbly and prayerfully serve Him.”2 lives. In the name of Jesus Christ, Preach My Gospel was introduced, Can you catch the vision? You’ll be amen. ■ but the best is yet to come as we all as excited as I am when in your per- NOTES become more proficient in the use sonal life you begin to understand 1. “Missionary Service,” Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 11, of this extraordinary missionary tool. and use this missionary tool. Unlike 2003, 19. I encourage you to use these prior full-time missionary resources, 2. Preach My Gospel (2004), v.

MAY 2005 31 given by President Gordon B. Hinckley to a large meeting of over The Worth of Souls 2,000 members in Paris, France, last year. He said: “I plead with you, my ELDER HAROLD G. HILLAM brothers and sisters, that if you have Of the Seventy any doubt concerning any doctrine of this Church, that you put it to the test. Try it. Live the principle. Get on When we see the effect one person can have ..., your knees and pray about it, and it perhaps is no wonder that the Lord reminded us, God will bless you with a knowledge “Remember the worth of souls.” of the truth of this work.” If you feel you have been wronged, be ready to forgive. If there is, for some reason, an unpleasant memory, As she said these words, I found let it go. Where necessary, talk to your myself thinking, “Is it only 1,000, or bishop; talk to your stake president. could it be more?” To all, but especially to those who The answer is apparent. The spiri- some day will be great-grandfathers tual influence that family might have and great-grandmothers, your eter- had on their neighbors and friends nal blessings and those of your pos- did not happen. None of his sons nor terity are far more important than any of his daughters served as mis- any prideful reason which would sionaries, and those they would have deny you and so many others of such touched with their testimonies were important blessings. In the Book of not baptized, and those who were Mormon, King Benjamin reminds us: not baptized did not go on missions. “And moreover, I would desire that Yes, there are probably many thou- ye should consider on the blessed sands who are not in the Church and happy state of those that keep today, and not in this very meeting, the commandments of God. For because of that great-grandfather’s behold, they are blessed in all things, decision. both temporal and spiritual; and if ne of the talks that has had an As I heard her talk I found myself they hold out faithful to the end everlasting impression on me thinking, “What a tragedy! Perhaps if they are received into heaven, that Ois one given in a Saturday I had been there at that time, I could thereby they may dwell with God in evening session of a stake conference have said something to the father, to a state of never-ending happiness” years ago. The talk was given by a the family, to the priesthood leaders (Mosiah 2:41). young mother. Here’s what she said: that might have helped to prevent To those who are children in “I have been doing the genealogy of such a calamity to their family and to the homes of future errant great- my great-grandfather. He and his so many in the future generations grandfathers, you can continue to large family of sons and daughters that would follow.” stand faithful; you can be a good were members of the Church. Well, that opportunity of the past is example in the home and to those “My great-grandfather,” she said, lost. But we can now look to the pres- around you. You can do your part “left church one Sunday with his fam- ent and to the future. I would say to to bring peace and harmony in the ily, and they never returned—no indi- those who find themselves in the same home and with your associates. You cation why.” position as that great-grandfather: can be the solution, and not the She then said, “In my research, I Would you consider what you might cause, of problems. Remember in the have found that my great-grandfather be doing to your family and to all Book of Mormon when Father Lehi has over 1,000 descendants.” those who come after you? Would began to murmur, it was his righteous And then she said, and this is the you ponder the effects of your son Nephi who gave encouragement part I have not been able to forget, thoughts and your actions? and found solutions to problems. So “Of those 1,000 descendants, I am the If there are any concerns about many times it is the righteous chil- only one active in the Church today.” Church doctrine, consider the counsel dren who are able to steady the boat

32 to interview those who needed encouragement. Individuals and couples were invited to come to his office. There he got to know them, counseled with them, and invited them to do better, to put their lives in order, and to receive the blessings available to those who follow the Lord. He helped them by putting them in the care of a capable leader, a teacher who helped them to understand the beauties of the doctrine. Then he told me that in these interviews he would often ask if they would like a blessing. “I have placed my hands on the heads of many members of the stake,” he said. The next day in the general session of the stake conference, I doubt I have ever seen so many tears—not because they felt the president should not be released, but for the deep love of a young stake president who had blessed their lives. I felt prompted to ask, “How many of you have had the hands of the president on your heads?” I was amazed at the number of people who raised their hands. I thought to myself at the time, “How many of these people will bless the name of this great man, not only now but throughout the eternities?” Yes, these will be the great-grandfathers who will, because of this loving leader, leave a legacy of generations of thousands who will while sailing in turbulent waters. I would like to tell you of a stake call him blessed. To you who are bishops and stake conference I was assigned to attend. When we see the effect one person presidents, how I wish you could It was a reorganization; the stake can have on the lives of so many, it have been part of the meeting I at- president and his counselors would perhaps is no wonder that the Lord tended with a handful of regional rep- be released, and a new presidency reminded us, “Remember the worth resentatives. We heard Elder L. Tom would be called. The stake president of souls is great in the sight of God” Perry as he compared those who was young and had served wonder- (D&C 18:10). are prospective elders and those fully for almost 10 years. He was a I pray we all might consider who are not active—the future great- spiritual giant, but he was also an what we can do individually to assist grandfathers—to a thermometer. We administrative giant. In my personal those who will be the future great- were reminded that there are many interview with him, he told me grandparents, whether a little child, of those individuals who are more how he had delegated much of the a teenager, or an adult, so that each than just warm. They would come responsibility for the stake functions will leave a righteous legacy of those back if someone would just encour- to his counselors and to the high who know and love the Lord. In the age and show the way. council and had thus freed himself name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

MAY 2005 33 Moses 5:5). Genuine sacrifice has been a hallmark of the faithful from Tithing— the beginning. Among those who do not sacrifice there are two extremes: one is the rich, gluttonous man who won’t and a Commandment the other is the poor, destitute man who believes he can’t. But how can you ask someone who is starving to eat less? Is there a level of poverty Even for so low that sacrifice should not be expected or a family so destitute that paying tithing should cease to be the Destitute required? The Lord often teaches using ELDER LYNN G. ROBBINS extreme circumstances to illustrate a Of the Seventy principle. The story of the widow of Zarephath is an example of extreme Genuine sacrifice has been a hallmark of the faithful poverty used to teach the doctrine that mercy cannot rob sacrifice any from the beginning. more than it can rob justice. In fact, the truer measure of sacrifice isn’t so much what one gives to sacrifice as what one sacrifices to give (see Mark think me ill-used, when I pay a day’s 12:43). Faith isn’t tested so much wages for no work.’ when the cupboard is full as when it is “The clerk observed that it was bare. In these defining moments, the only once a year. crisis doesn’t create one’s character— “ ‘A poor excuse for picking a man’s it reveals it. The crisis is the test. pocket every twenty-fifth of The widow of Zarephath lived in December!’ said Scrooge.”1 the days of the prophet Elijah, by For Scrooge—as with any selfish, whose word the Lord brought a or “natural,” man—sacrifice is never drought upon the land for three and convenient. a half years (see Luke 4:25). The The natural man has a tendency famine grew so severe that many to think only of himself—not only to were finally at the point of death. place himself first, but rarely, if ever, This is the circumstance in which we to place anyone else second, includ- find the widow. ing God. For the natural man, sacrifice The Lord says to Elijah, “Arise, get does not come naturally. He has an thee to Zarephath . . . : behold, I have insatiable appetite for more. His so- commanded a widow woman there to n Charles Dickens’s timeless called needs seem to always outpace sustain thee” (1 Kings 17:9). It is inter- classic A Christmas Carol, his income so that having “enough” is esting that Elijah is not told to go to IBob Cratchit hoped to spend forever out of reach, just as it was for Zarephath until the widow and her Christmas Day with his family. “‘If the miser Scrooge. son are at the point of death. It is at quite convenient, Sir,’ ” he asked Because the natural man tends to this extreme moment—facing starva- his employer, Mr. Scrooge. hoard or consume everything, the tion—that her faith will be tested. “ ‘It’s not convenient,’ said Lord wisely commanded ancient Israel As he comes into the city he sees Scrooge, ‘and it’s not fair. If I was to to sacrifice not the last and poorest of her gathering sticks. stop half-a-crown for it, you’d think the flock, but the firstlings—not the “And he called to her, and said, yourself ill used.’. . . leftovers of the field, but the firstfruits Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in “ ‘And yet,’ said Scrooge, ‘you don’t (see Deuteronomy 26:2; Mosiah 2:3; a vessel, that I may drink.

34 “And as she was going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand. “And she said, As the Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die” (vv. 10–12). A handful of meal would be very little indeed, perhaps just enough for one serving, which makes Elijah’s response intriguing. Listen: “And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first” (v. 13; emphasis added). Now doesn’t that sound selfish, asking not just for the first piece, but possibly the only piece? Didn’t our parents teach us to let other people go first and especially for a gentleman to let a lady go first, let alone a starving widow? Her choice—does she eat, or does she sacrifice her last meal and hasten death? Perhaps she will which he spake by Elijah” (vv. 13–16; Mitch devastated many parts of sacrifice her own food, but could emphasis added). Central America. President Gordon B. she sacrifice the food meant for her One reason the Lord illustrates Hinckley was very concerned for the starving son? doctrines with the most extreme cir- victims of this disaster, many of whom Elijah understood the doctrine that cumstances is to eliminate excuses. lost everything—food, clothing, and blessings come after the trial of our If the Lord expects even the poorest household goods. He visited the faith (see Ether 12:6; D&C 132:5). He widow to pay her mite, where does Saints in the cities of San Pedro Sula wasn’t being selfish. As the Lord’s ser- that leave all others who find that it is and Tegucigalpa, Honduras; and vant, Elijah was there to give, not to not convenient or easy to sacrifice? Managua, Nicaragua. And like the take. Continuing from the narrative: No bishop, no missionary should words of the loving prophet Elijah “But make me thereof a little cake ever hesitate or lack the faith to teach to a starving widow, this modern first [the firstlings], and bring it unto the law of tithing to the poor. The prophet’s message in each city was me, and after make for thee and for sentiment of “They can’t afford to” similar—to sacrifice and be obedient thy son. needs to be replaced with “They can’t to the law of tithing. “For thus saith the Lord God of afford not to.” But how can you ask someone Israel, The barrel of meal shall not One of the first things a bishop so destitute to sacrifice? President waste, neither shall the cruse of oil must do to help the needy is ask Hinckley knew that the food and fail, until the day that the Lord them to pay their tithing. Like the clothing shipments they received sendeth rain upon the earth. widow, if a destitute family is faced would help them survive the crisis, “And she went and did according with the decision of paying their but his concern and love for them to the saying of Elijah: and she, and tithing or eating, they should pay went far beyond that. As important he, and her house, did eat many days. their tithing. The bishop can help as humanitarian aid is, he knew “And the barrel of meal wasted them with their food and other basic that the most important assistance not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, needs until they become self-reliant. comes from God, not from man. The according to the word of the Lord, In October of 1998 Hurricane prophet wanted to help them unlock

MAY 2005 35 the windows of heaven as promised by the Lord in the book of Malachi (see Malachi 3:10; Mosiah 2:24). The Fruits President Hinckley taught them that if they would pay their tithing, they would always have food on their tables, they would always have of the First Vision clothing on their backs, and they ELDER DIETER F. UCHTDORF would always have a roof over their heads. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles When serving a meal, it is much easier to set one more plate at the I count Joseph Smith among those whose testimony of Christ beginning of the meal than it is to helped me to develop my own testimony of the Savior. find food for a latecomer once the meal is over and the food has been served. Likewise, isn’t it actually easier to give the Lord the firstlings or the firstfruits than it is to hope that have not yet been with our children there are sufficient “leftovers” for and grandchildren until this general Him? As the founder of our feast, conference, and so I wave today, hop- shouldn’t He be the guest of honor, ing to make a grandson happy. I also the first to be served? wave to all of you wonderful mem- My loving mother, Evelyn Robbins, bers, whose prayers and love are so taught me the law of tithing when I important and appreciated by my wife was four years old. She gave me an and me. empty Band-Aid box, the tin kind with In my growing-up years in Germany, a snapping lid. She taught me to keep I attended church in many different my tithing pennies in it and then take locations and circumstances—in hum- it to the bishop. I am eternally grate- ble back rooms, in impressive villas, ful for her, for that Band-Aid box, and and in very functional modern chapels. for the blessings that have come from All of these buildings had one impor- paying tithing. tant factor in common: the Spirit of In A Christmas Carol, Mr. Scrooge God was present; the love of the changed his ways—he was not the Savior could be felt as we assembled man he had been. Likewise, this is the nly six months ago you faithful as a branch or ward family. gospel of repentance. If the Spirit is members of the Church of The Zwickau chapel had an old air- prompting us to more fully obey the OJesus Christ sustained me as a driven organ. Every Sunday a young law of sacrifice in our life, may we member of the Quorum of the Twelve man was assigned to push up and begin making that change today. Apostles. This calling came as a great down the sturdy lever operating the I am so grateful for the Savior, who surprise to many, but especially to our bellows to make the organ work. Even was the perfect example of obedience grandchildren, who said, “But he is before I was an Aaronic Priesthood through sacrifice—who offered “him- our Opa! He is just a regular person. bearer, I sometimes had the great priv- self a sacrifice for sin” and became, He played with us, and he used to cut ilege to assist in this important task. in Lehi’s words, “the firstfruits unto our hair!” While the congregation sang our God” (2 Nephi 2:7, 9; emphasis After the October general confer- beloved hymns of the Restoration, I added). I bear witness of Him and ence, my wife and I talked to our chil- pumped with all my strength so the of these, His doctrines, in the name dren on the telephone, and one of organ would not run out of wind. of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ our grandsons said, “Since we were so The eyes of the organist unmistak- far away from you and could not be ably indicated whether I was doing NOTE with you in Salt Lake City, at least you fine or needed to increase my efforts 1. The Annotated Christmas Carol, ed. Michael Patrick Hearn (1976), 69; emphasis should have waved to us when you quickly. I always felt honored by the added. were giving your conference talk.” We importance of this duty and the trust

36 that the organist had placed in me. from Palmyra in North America and also be a friend of mine. I knew I It was a wonderful feeling of accom- more than a hundred years after the could trust Joseph Smith. plishment to have a responsibility event actually took place. By the uni- The scriptures teach us that spiri- and to be part of this great work. versal power of the Holy Ghost, I felt tual gifts are given to those who ask of There was an additional benefit in my heart and in my mind that it God, who love Him, and who keep His that came from this assignment: the was true, that Joseph Smith saw God commandments (see D&C 46:9). “All bellows operator sat in a seat that and Jesus Christ and heard Their have not every gift given unto them; offered a great view of a stained-glass voices. The Spirit of God comforted for there are many gifts, and to every window that beautified the front part my soul at this young age with an man is given a gift by the Spirit of God. of the chapel. The stained glass por- assurance of the reality of this sacred “To some is given one, and to trayed the First Vision, with Joseph moment that resulted in the begin- some is given another, that all may be Smith kneeling in the Sacred Grove, ning of a worldwide movement des- profited thereby” (D&C 46:11–12). looking up toward heaven and into a tined to “roll forth, until it has filled Today I know that my young testi- pillar of light. the whole earth” (D&C 65:2). I be- mony benefited greatly from the testi- During the hymns of the congrega- lieved Joseph Smith’s testimony of mony of the Prophet Joseph Smith tion and even during talks and testi- that glorious experience in the Sacred and many friends in the Church who monies given by our members, I Grove then, and I know it now. God knew “by the Holy Ghost . . . that Jesus often looked at this depiction of a has spoken to mankind again! Christ is the Son of God, and that he most sacred moment in world his- Looking back, I am grateful for so was crucified for the sins of the world” tory. In my mind’s eye I saw Joseph many friends who helped me in my (D&C 46:13). Their good examples, receiving knowledge, witness, and youth to gain a testimony of the caring love, and helping hands blessed divine instructions as he became a restored Church of Jesus Christ. First me to receive another special gift of blessed instrument in the hand of I exercised simple faith in their testi- the Spirit described in the scriptures as our Heavenly Father. monies, and then I received the I was yearning for more light and I felt a special spirit while looking divine witness of the Spirit to my truth: “To others it is given to believe at the beautiful scene in this window mind and to my heart. I count Joseph on their words, that they also might picture of a believing young boy in Smith among those whose testimony have eternal life if they continue [faith- a sacred grove who made a coura- of Christ helped me to develop my fully]” (D&C 46:14). What a wonderful geous decision to earnestly pray to own testimony of the Savior. Before I and precious gift this is! our Heavenly Father, who listened recognized the tutoring of the Spirit As we truly humble ourselves, we and responded lovingly to him. testifying to me that Joseph Smith will be blessed with this gift to have Here I was, a young boy in post– was a prophet of God, my youthful faith and to hope for things which are World War II Germany, living in a city heart felt that he was a friend of God not seen but are true (see Alma 32:21). in ruins, thousands of miles away and would therefore, quite naturally, As we experiment upon the words

MAY 2005 37 given to us by the scriptures and the socioeconomic circumstance. The living prophets—even if we only have powers of reason may be used to try a desire to believe—and do not resist to understand this gift, but those who the Spirit of the Lord, our souls will be feel its effects most deeply are those enlarged and our understanding will who are willing to accept its blessings, be enlightened (see Alma 32:26–28). which come from a pure and clean The Savior Himself explained this life of following the path of true merciful principle clearly to all the repentance and living the command- world in His great intercessory prayer, ments of God. given not only for His Apostles but for As we remember and honor the all the Saints, even for us today, wher- Prophet Joseph Smith, my heart ever we might be living. He said: reaches out to him in gratitude. He “Neither pray I for these alone, but was a good, honest, humble, intelli- for them also which shall believe on gent, and courageous young man me through their word; with a heart of gold and an unshaken “That they all may be one; as thou, faith in God. He had integrity. In Father, art in me, and I in thee, that response to his humble prayer, the they also may be one in us: that the heavens opened again. Joseph Smith world may believe that thou hast had actually seen a vision. He knew it, sent me” (John 17:20–21; emphasis and he knew that God knew it, and added). he could not deny it. (See Joseph This is how Joseph Smith’s First Smith—History 1:25.) Vision blesses our own personal lives, Through his work and sacrifice, I the lives of families, and eventually the for the purpose of blessing all of now have a true understanding of our whole human family—we come to God’s children with His mercy and Heavenly Father and His Son, our believe in Jesus Christ through the tes- love, even in times of uncertainties Redeemer and Savior, Jesus Christ, and timony of the Prophet Joseph Smith. and insecurities, of wars and rumors I can feel the power of the Holy Ghost Prophets and apostles throughout the of wars, of natural and personal disas- and know of Heavenly Father’s plan history of mankind have had divine ters. The Savior said, “Behold, mine for us, His children. For me, these are manifestations similar to Joseph’s. arm of mercy is extended towards truly the fruits of the First Vision. Moses saw God face-to-face and you, and whosoever will come, him I am grateful that early in my life I learned that he was a son of God “in will I receive” (3 Nephi 9:14). And all was blessed with a simple faith that the similitude of [His] Only Begotten” who accept this invitation will be Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, (see Moses 1:1–6). The Apostle Paul “encircled about with the matchless that he saw God the Father and His testified that the resurrected Jesus bounty of his love” (Alma 26:15). Son, Jesus Christ, in a vision. He Christ appeared to him on the road to Through our faith in the personal translated the Book of Mormon by Damascus and made Paul one of His witness of the Prophet Joseph and the the gift and power of God. That testi- great missionaries (see Acts 26:9–23). reality of the First Vision, through mony has been confirmed to me over Hearing Paul’s witness of his heavenly study and prayer, deep and sincere, and over again. vision during the trial at Caesarea, the we will be blessed with a firm faith in As one of the least among you, but powerful King Agrippa admitted, the Savior of the world, who spoke to in my calling as one of the Apostles of “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Joseph “on the morning of a beauti- Jesus Christ, I testify that He truly lives, Christian” (Acts 26:28). ful, clear day, early in the spring of that He is the Messiah. I do have a And there were many other eighteen hundred and twenty” personal witness of Jesus Christ, the ancient prophets who also bore pow- (Joseph Smith—History 1:14). Savior and Redeemer of all mankind. erful testimony of Christ. All of these Faith in Jesus Christ and a testi- I received this knowledge by the manifestations, ancient and modern, mony of Him and His universal unspeakable peace and power of the lead those who believe to the divine Atonement is not just a doctrine with Spirit of God. The desire of my heart source of all righteousness and great theological value. Such faith is a and of my mind is to be pure and faith- hope—to God, our Heavenly Father, universal gift, glorious for all cultural ful in serving Him now and forever. and to His Son, Jesus Christ. regions of this earth, irrespective of I so testify in the name of Jesus God has spoken to Joseph Smith language, race, color, nationality, or Christ, amen. ■

38 faith among the children of men God can do no miracle among them; wherefore, he showed not himself Couple 5 until after their faith.” Allow me to share some of these miraculous blessings from letters and Missionaries accounts I have received over the past four years. A humble couple from Idaho met fear with faith when the Blessings from Sacrifice Lord called them to Russia. They wrote the following acceptance letter: and Service “No one would have imagined we would be called to this assignment. ELDER ROBERT D. HALES We have no idea how we will learn the Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles language or manage to be of service, and although we accept with much trepidation, going completely on Your Heavenly Father needs you. His work, faith, we know that the Lord and His under the direction of our Savior Jesus Christ, prophet know more than we do where needs what you are uniquely prepared to give. we should serve.” Ten months later the Stockholm Sweden Temple welcomed 30 Saints from a small branch in Russia led by this couple from Idaho who had As you spoke, my heart was touched barely begun to learn the Russian lan- so deeply. I looked over at my hus- guage. The scriptures tell us, “God has band and he looked at me. That provided a means that man, through moment changed my life forever.” faith, might work mighty miracles.”6 If you are or will soon be the age of Thus, God’s work is carried out by a senior missionary, I come to you this His children: “That faith also might afternoon to witness of the blessings increase in the earth. . . . That the that can change your life forever. Your fulness of my gospel might be pro- Heavenly Father needs you. His work, claimed by the weak and the simple under the direction of our Savior Jesus unto the ends of the world.”7 Christ, needs what you are uniquely Another couple faced family prepared to give. Every missionary concerns with faith. A faithful sister experience requires faith, sacrifice, wrote: “The decision to serve a mis- and service, and these are always fol- sion was not hard. But my 90-year-old lowed by an outpouring of blessings. mother was extremely apprehensive As we discuss these blessings, you about our leaving. She took great will naturally consider what I have comfort when she heard that our fam- our years ago I spoke in this set- called the four Fs: fear, family con- ilies would be blessed as we serve.” A ting about couples serving full- cerns, finding the right mission oppor- faithful brother expressed similar con- Ftime missions. My prayer was tunity, and financial challenges.2 May I cerns about leaving his elderly par- that “the Holy Ghost [would] touch yet add another more important and ents, to which his father responded: hearts, and somewhere a spouse . . . powerful F—faith. Only through our “Don’t use your mother and me as an [would] quietly nudge his or her com- faith can we heed God’s counsel to excuse not to go on a mission with panion, and a moment of truth [—a “choose ye this day, whom ye will your wife. You pray about it and fol- moment of decision—would] occur.”1 serve”3—“to serve the Lord God who low the guidance of the Spirit.” One sister later wrote me about that made you.”4 And only through a trial To an earlier generation of mission- experience. She said, “We were sitting of our faith can we receive the miracu- aries called to leave their families, the in the comfort of our family room lous blessings we seek for ourselves Lord offered this reassurance: “And if enjoying conference on television. . . . and our families. “For if there be no they will do this in all lowliness of

MAY 2005 39 country with a strange sounding name. The right call for you may be within your stake or area. “Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.”12 Counsel with your extended family and your bishop or branch president. As the Lord’s servants understand your temporal situation, you will be able to receive the eternal blessings of full- time missionary service. If you cannot serve because of serious extenuating circumstances, would you consider making a financial contribution to help those who can? The reasonable sacrifice of your means heart, . . . I, the Lord, give unto them children the opportunity to express will not only bless other missionaries a promise that I will provide for their their support, offer special assistance and those they serve; it will bless you families.”8 we may need, and receive priesthood and your family as well. Certainly family concerns are real blessings to sustain them in our ab- Now, to those who were not able and should not be considered lightly. sence. Where appropriate, we may be to serve a mission in their youth, may But we cannot meet our family chal- able to receive priesthood blessings I speak directly to you. Perhaps over lenges without the blessings of the from them as well. As the faithful the years you have been burdened by Lord; and when we sacrifice to serve father in this story blessed his family feelings of regret or felt less than ade- as full-time missionary couples, those members, his son-in-law felt the influ- quate because you did not have a blessings will flow. For example, one ence of the Holy Ghost. The father missionary opportunity to serve and couple worried about leaving their wrote: “By the end of our first year grow when you were younger. My youngest daughter who was no longer [the] heart [of our son-in-law] began advice to you: look forward, not back. active in the Church. Her faithful father to soften toward the Church. Just Begin preparing for your mission as a wrote: “We prayed for her continually before we returned home from our senior missionary couple today! Save and fasted regularly. Then, during gen- mission, he and our daughter came to a little money each month. Study the eral conference, the Spirit whispered visit us. In his suitcase was the first set scriptures. Accept Church callings. to me, ‘If you will serve, you will not of Sunday clothes he had ever owned. Pray to feel the Lord’s love for others have to worry about your daughter They came to Church with us, and and receive His love and confidence anymore.’ So we met with our bishop. after we returned home he was bap- in you. You can one day claim all the The week after we received our call, tized. A year later, they were sealed in blessings of missionary service! she and her boyfriend announced the temple.”9 And what marvelous blessings they they were engaged. Before we left for Though the details of this story are! After 51 years of marriage, I was Africa, we had a wedding in our home. may be unique, the principle is true asked, “What part of life would you [Then we gathered our family together for all who say to the Lord, “I’ll go want to live over again?” I did not hes- and] held a family council. . . . I bore where you want me to go.”10 I testify itate to reply, “When my wife and I testimony of the Lord and Joseph that as we put our trust in the Lord, served together in the great mission- Smith . . . and told them I would like He will find the right missionary ary work of the Lord.” The sentiments to give each of them a father’s bless- opportunity for us. As He said, “If any of another missionary couple echo ing. I started with the oldest son and man serve me, him will my Father those of my wife and myself: “Our then his wife and proceeded to the honour.”11 decision to go on a mission brought youngest . . . [including our new In considering missionary oppor- new vigor, new emotions, new son-in-law].” tunities, many couples throughout the friends, new places, new challenges. As we consider couple missionary world have an abundant desire to It brought us closer together as hus- service, it is appropriate to involve serve but lack abundant means. If this is band and wife; we had a common our families in the same way. In family your situation, remember that the right goal and a real partnership. And council meetings, we can give our mission call may not be to a far-off best of all, it brought new spiritual

40 growth, instead of spiritual retire- seek to encourage full-time mission- work in welfare and humanitarian serv- ment.” Brothers and sisters, let us ary service, remember that when a ice; in temples; in family history cen- not go into spiritual retirement. couple is called, they not only help ters, mission offices, and historic sites; Now, may I extend a challenge accomplish the work of the Lord calls to “do the greatest good unto thy to bishops and branch presidents throughout the world; they plant a fellow beings, and . . . promote the throughout the world? Over the next seed of service in their families that glory of him who is your Lord.”14 six months, would it be possible for will blossom for generations to come. Consider these examples: A couple each of you to consider recommend- I continue to be grateful for the influ- called to India helped a school for ing one or more missionary couples ence of my parents, who served as blind children build sanitary facilities beyond those presently planning to couple missionaries in England and and acquire braille typewriters. A cou- serve? Your greatest resource in meet- set an example for their posterity. ple in Hawaii nurtured a little branch ing this challenge will be those senior Now, to you prospective mission- of 20 members to 200 and prepared members of your ward who have ary couples, please do not wait for 70 members to attend the temple already served missions. In my own your bishop to meet with you about together. A couple in Peru arranged ward, an inspired bishop called a serving a mission! Go to him. Share for medicine and Christmas toys to special meeting of prospective and your feelings. Where missionary serv- be provided to 550 children in an returned missionary couples. As we ice is concerned, the Lord expects us orphanage. A couple in Cambodia bore our testimonies of sacrifice and to express our desires. As we do, we taught institute classes and gave lead- service, the Spirit witnessed to us all can trust that the same Spirit that ership to a branch which, after only that a call to serve is indeed a call to prompts us to seek a mission call 10 months, grew to 180 members. A “know the richness of [the Lord’s] will inspire a prophet to call us to couple in Russia helped local farmers blessing[s].”13 the right assignment. increase their yield of potatoes to I’ve heard of a stake president who And there are so many calls! 11 times that of the state farms, while a has arranged a senior missionary class There are calls to teach the gospel couple in the Philippines helped nearly to inspire prospective missionary cou- to those who desire to receive the 700 poorly nourished families learn to ples and help them prepare to serve. truth, including to youth in the raise rabbits and cultivate vegetable Priesthood leaders, as you prayerfully Church Educational System; calls to gardens. A couple in Pennsylvania

MAY 2005 41 wisdom, and most of all, our faith, rise to meet that need as only we can. We, above all, have special reason to do so. From our life’s experience we can look back and recognize the goodness of our Father in Heaven and His Son, Jesus Christ, to us and our families. As one faithful brother explained, “My wife and I would like to serve five missions—one for each of the beautiful children God has blessed us with!” Whatever blessings we have received individually, I testify that we have all received the greatest blessing of all: “God [our Heavenly Father] so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,”17 and His Son, Jesus Christ, “loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life.”18 I bear my special witness that His atoning sacrifice is the ultimate expression of that love. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is our greatest privilege to return His love through sacrifice and service and claim His holy promise: “And whoso layeth down his life in my cause, for my name’s sake, shall find it again, even life eternal.”19 That we may do so is my heartfelt prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOTES 1. “Couple Missionaries: A Time to Serve,” assisted 60 individuals, half of them who are serving in so many capaci- Liahona, July 2001, 28; Ensign, members of other faiths, in preparing ties, contributing millions of hours in May 2001, 25. 2. See Liahona, July 2001, 28; Ensign, May their family genealogical records. A service to their fellow man. 2001, 25. couple in Ghana helped drill and refur- My brothers and sisters, if you have 3. Alma 30:8. bish wells, bringing water to 190,000 felt stirrings to engage in this work, 4. Moses 6:33. 5. Ether 12:12, emphasis added. people in villages and refugee camps. however quiet those feelings may be, 6. Mosiah 8:18. Whether or not the results of do not procrastinate the day of your 7. D&C 1:21, 23. every mission are this obvious to service. Now is the time to prepare; 8. D&C 118:3. 9. See D&C 31:1–2, 5. mortal eyes, all those who serve now is the time to be called, the time 10. “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go,” make an invaluable contribution in to sacrifice. Now is the time to share Hymns, no. 270. 11. John 12:26. the sight of the Lord, for all “have your gifts and talents, and now is the 12. Matthew 6:32; 3 Nephi 13:32. 15 compassion, making a difference.” time to receive God’s blessings for 13. “Called to Serve,” Hymns, no. 249. Couple missionaries are role models you and your family. “There is a con- 14. D&C 81:4. 15. Jude 1:22. and examples of strength to full-time stant need for more couple missionar- 16. “To the Bishops of the Church,” Worldwide missionaries and to priesthood and ies,” President Gordon B. Hinckley Leadership Training Meeting, June 19, auxiliary leaders throughout the has said.16 As this work rolls forward, 2004, 27. 17. John 3:16. world. I express my gratitude for all that need is increasing. Let us, in our 18. 2 Nephi 26:24. these and the thousands of others richest years of experience, maturity, 19. D&C 98:13.

42 PRIESTHOOD SESSION April 2, 2005

which we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Our Most Joseph Smith and the 175th year since the organization of the Church, I wish to add my testimony of—and express my eternal gratitude for—the restora- Distinguishing tion of the holy priesthood, this hal- lowed prerogative, this sovereign gift, and the role it plays in our lives on both sides of the veil. Feature The essential function of the priest- ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND hood in linking time and eternity was Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles made explicit by the Savior when He formed His Church during His mortal ministry. To His senior Apostle Peter The priesthood of God . . . is as indispensable to the He said, “I will give unto thee the keys true Church of God as it is unique to it. of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be course, the holy priesthood. loosed in heaven.”4 Six days later He President Gordon B. Hinckley has took Peter, James, and John to a moun- added his testimony when he said: taintop where He was transfigured in “[The priesthood] is a delegation of glory before them. Then prophets divine authority, different from all from earlier dispensations, including other powers and authorities on the at least Moses and Elijah,5 appeared in face of the earth. . . . It is the only glory also and conferred the various power on the earth that reaches keys and powers that each held. beyond the veil of death. . . . Without Unfortunately those Apostles were it there could be a church in name soon killed or otherwise taken from only, [a church] lacking authority to the earth, and their priesthood keys administer in the things of God.”2 were taken with them, resulting in Just four weeks ago President more than 1,400 years of priesthood James E. Faust said to BYU students in privation and absence of divine author- their devotional: “[The priesthood] ity among the children of men. But activates and governs all activities of part of the modern miracle and mar- the Church. Without priesthood keys velous history we celebrate tonight is early 70 years ago President and authority, there would be no the return of those same heavenly David O. McKay, then serving church.”3 messengers in our day and the restora- Nas a counselor in the First I begin tonight with these three tion of those same powers they held Presidency of the Church, asked this brief citations (to which scores of for the blessing of all mankind. question to a congregation gathered others could be added) to stress In May of 1829 while translating the for general conference: “If at this emphatically just one point: that the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith came moment each one [of you] were priesthood of God, with its keys, its across a reference to baptism. He dis- asked to state in one sentence . . . ordinances, its divine origin and abil- cussed the matter with his scribe, the most distinguishing feature of the ity to bind in heaven what is bound Oliver Cowdery, and the two earnestly Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day on earth, is as indispensable to the supplicated the Lord regarding the Saints, what would be your answer?” true Church of God as it is unique to matter. Oliver wrote: “Our souls were “My answer,” he replied, “would it and that without it there would be drawn out in mighty prayer, to know be . . . divine authority by direct no Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- how we might obtain the blessings of revelation.”1 day Saints. baptism and of the Holy Spirit. . . . We That divine authority is, of In this commemorative year in diligently sought for ...the authority

MAY 2005 43 Jesus Christ can trace the priesthood line of authority exercised by the newest deacon in the ward, the bishop who presides over him, and the prophet who presides over all of us. That line goes back in an unbroken chain to angelic ministers who came from the Son of God Himself, bearing this incomparable gift from heaven. And, oh, how we need its blessings—as a Church and as individuals and families within the Church. Just one illustration: I spoke earlier of the Kirtland period of Church history. The years of 1836 and 1837 were as difficult as that of the holy priesthood, and the power ordinances thereof.”8 Clearly, acting young Church had ever faced—finan- to administer in the same.”6 with divine authority requires more cially, politically, and internally. In the In response to that “mighty prayer,” than mere social contract. It cannot midst of that stress, Joseph Smith had John the Baptist came, restoring the be generated by theological training the remarkable prophetic prompting keys and powers of the Aaronic or a commission from the congrega- to send some of his ablest men (ulti- Priesthood, which our young men in tion. No, in the authorized work of mately the entire Quorum of the this audience tonight have been given. God there has to be power greater Twelve Apostles) abroad on missions. A few weeks later Peter, James, and than that already possessed by the It was a bold, inspired move, one that John returned to restore the keys and people in the pews or in the streets would in the end save the Church powers of the Melchizedek Priesthood, or in the seminaries—a fact that many from the perils of the day, but in the including the keys of the apostleship. honest religious seekers had known near term it imposed great burdens Then when a temple had been built to and openly acknowledged for genera- on the Saints—painful for those who which other heavenly messengers tions leading up to the Restoration. went away and perhaps even more might come, there unfolded on April 3, It is true that some few in that day painful for those who stayed at home. 1836, a modern-day equivalent of that did not want their ministers to claim I quote from Elder Robert B. earlier Mount of Transfiguration, part special sacramental authority, but most Thompson: of something President Hinckley once people longed for priesthood sanc- “The day appointed for the depar- called the “Kirtland cascade” of revela- tioned by God and were frustrated as ture of the Elders to England having tion in which the Savior Himself, plus to where they might go to find such.9 arrived, I [stopped at] the house of Moses, Elijah, and Elias, appeared in In that spirit the revelatory return of Brother [Heber C.] Kimball to ascertain glory to the Prophet Joseph Smith and priesthood authority through Joseph when he would start [on his journey], Oliver Cowdery and conferred keys Smith should have eased centuries of as I expected to accompany him two or and powers from their respective dis- anguish in those who felt what the three hundred miles, intending to pensations upon these men. That visit famed Charles Wesley had the courage spend my labors in Canada that season. was then concluded with this thunder- to say. Breaking ecclesiastically with his “The door being partly open, I ous declaration, “Therefore, the keys more famous brother John over the lat- entered and felt struck with the sight of this dispensation are committed ter’s decision to ordain without author- which presented itself to my view. I into your hands.”7 ity to do so, Charles wrote with a smile: would have retired, thinking that I was Little wonder that the Prophet intruding, but I felt riveted to the spot. Joseph would include in those suc- How easily are bishops made The father was pouring out his soul cinct and eloquent articles of our By man or woman’s whim: to . . . [God, pleading] that He who faith, “We believe that a man must Wesley his hands on Coke hath laid, ‘careth for sparrows, and feedeth the be called of God, by prophecy, and But who laid hands on him?10 young ravens when they cry’ would by the laying on of hands by those supply the wants of his wife and little who are in authority, to preach In responding to that challenging ones in his absence. He then, like the the Gospel and administer in the question, we in the restored Church of patriarchs, and by virtue of his office,

44 laid his hands upon their heads indi- manifest in my home and in my min- without which it cannot be manifest.17 vidually, leaving a father’s blessing istry. I have seen evil rebuked and the I testify of the restoration of the priest- upon them, . . . commending them to elements controlled. I know what it hood and the indispensable “distin- the care and protection of God, while means to have mountains of difficulty guishing feature” of the true Church of he should be engaged preaching the move and ominous Red Seas part. I God that it has always been, in the Gospel in a foreign land. While thus know what it means to have the name of Him whose priesthood it is, engaged [in giving those blessings] his destroying angel “pass by them.”12 even the Lord Jesus Christ, amen. ■ voice was almost lost in the sobs of To have received the authority and to NOTES those around [him], who [were trying have exercised the power of “the Holy 1. In Conference Report, Apr. 1937, 121. in their youthful way to be strong but Priesthood, after the Order of the Son 2. “Priesthood Restoration,” Ensign, Oct. 1988, 71. 13 having a very hard time doing so.] . . . of God,” is as great a blessing for me 3. “Where Is the Church?” devotional address, He proceeded, but his heart was too and for my family as I could ever hope Brigham Young University, Mar. 1, 2005, 8. 4. Matthew 16:19. much affected to do so regularly. . . . for in this world. And that, in the end, 5. See Matthew 17:1–3. He was obliged to stop at intervals, is the meaning of the priesthood in 6. Quoted in Richard Lloyd Anderson, “The while . . . big tears rolled down his everyday terms—its unequaled, un- Second Witness of Priesthood Restoration,” Improvement Era, Sept. 1968, 20; empha- cheeks, an index to the feelings which ending, constant capacity to bless. sis added. reigned in his bosom. My heart was With gratitude for such blessings I 7. D&C 110:16; see also vv. 1–15. not stout enough to refrain,” said join you and a choir of the living and 8. Articles of Faith 1:5; emphasis added. 9. See David F. Holland, “Priest, Pastor, Brother Thompson. “In spite of myself the dead in singing in this commemo- Power,” Insight, fall 1997, 15–22 for a I wept, and mingled my tears with rative year, “Praise to the man who thorough examination of priesthood theirs. At the same time I felt thankful communed with Jehovah!”14—and issues current in America at the time of the Restoration. that I had the privilege of contemplat- communed with Adam; Gabriel; Moses 10. Quoted in C. Beaufort Moss, The Divisions ing such a scene.”11 and Moroni; Elijah; Elias; Peter, James, of Christendom: A Retrospect (n.d.), 22. 11. Quoted in Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. That scene has been reenacted and John; John the Baptist; and a host Kimball (1945), 108–9. 15 one way or another a thousand times, of others. Truly “Jesus anointed that 12. D&C 89:21. a hundred thousand times, in The Prophet and Seer.”16 May we, young 13. See D&C 107:1–3. 14. Hymns, no. 27. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day and old, boys and men, fathers and 15. Joseph Smith had communion with many Saints—a fear, a need, a call, a danger, sons, cherish the priesthood that prophets and messengers from beyond the a sickness, an accident, a death. I have through him was restored, priesthood veil. For just a few of those mentioned in scripture, see D&C 128:20–21. been a participant in such moments. keys and ordinances by which alone 16. Hymns, no. 27. I have beheld the power of God the power of godliness is manifest and 17. See D&C 84:19–21.

MAY 2005 45 I had the distinct, powerful impression come into my mind: ‘Beware Beware of the evil behind the smiling eyes.’ “I immediately turned back toward the suspect. His hand was in his large front pocket. Instinctively I grabbed of the Evil behind his hand and pulled it from his pocket. Only then did I see, clutched in his hand, the semiautomatic pistol ready to fire. A flurry of activity fol- the Smiling Eyes lowed, and I disarmed the man.”2 ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN Later, in another case, the drug Of the Seventy dealer was convicted of murder and boasted that he would have also killed my friend had he not turned around As we increase our understanding and love at that very moment. for the Savior, His light will illuminate everything I have often thought of the com- around us. We will then see evil for what it is. munication that came into his mind: “Beware of the evil behind the smiling eyes.” This is what I want to talk to you about tonight. Let’s begin with what we know. Working as a special agent for the Good comes from God; evil comes FBI, my friend investigated organized from the devil.3 They are not, how- crime groups transporting illegal ever, equal forces that are fighting drugs into the United States. each other in the universe. At the On one occasion, he and another head of all that is good is the Christ— agent approached an apartment He who is the Only Begotten of the where they believed a known drug Father, who created our world and dealer was distributing cocaine. numerous others. Our Redeemer is My friend describes what happened: a resurrected and perfect being.4 I “We knocked on the door of the know He lives. drug dealer. The suspect opened The devil, on the other hand, the door, and upon seeing us, tried “persuadeth men to do evil.”5 “He to block our view. But it was too late; [has] fallen from heaven, . . . [has] we could see the cocaine on his become miserable forever,”6 and now table. works “that all men might be miser- “A man and a woman who were at able like unto himself.”7 He is a liar the table immediately began remov- and a loser.8 onight I speak to you young ing the cocaine. We had to prevent The power of the Savior and the men, you whom President them from destroying the evidence, power of the devil are not truly com- Gordon B. Hinckley has so I quickly pushed the drug suspect parable.9 On this planet, however, evil T 1 described as “the finest generation.” who was blocking the door to the has been allowed a position of influ- Across the world we see your good- side. As I pushed him, my eyes met ence to give us the chance to choose ness. I pray that you will feel that my his. Strangely, he did not appear between good and evil. The scripture words are personally for you, a son of angry or afraid. He was smiling says: “God gave unto man that he God, working hard to do what’s right. at me. should act for himself. [And] man I’d like to tell you of an experience “His eyes and disarming smile gave could not act for himself . . . [unless] of a faithful Latter-day Saint who is a me the impression that he was harm- he was enticed by . . . one or the good friend of mine. I’ll refer to him less, so I quickly left him and started other.”10 only as “my friend” for reasons you to move toward the table. The suspect The choice between good and evil will understand. was now behind me. At that instant, is at the very heart of our experience

46 on earth. In the final review of our I have known a few young men have the inspired guidance in the lives, it will not really matter if we who began with every intention to stay booklet For the Strength of Youth.17 As were rich or poor, if we were athletic firm in their loyalty to the Savior but you apply President Hinckley’s coun- or not, if we had friends or were often who slipped from the path because sel, the Lord has promised that He forgotten. they did not see the evil behind eyes “will disperse the powers of darkness We can work, study, laugh and have that appeared quite harmless. They from before you.”18 You will see the fun, dance, sing, and enjoy many dif- saw the fun, the pleasure, the accept- evil behind the smiling eyes, and its ferent experiences. These are a won- ance, but they did not see the other appeal will leave you. derful part of life, but they are not consequences. Very importantly, let the Holy Ghost central to why we are here.11 The How, then, can we discern the be your guide. The Lord has promised opportunity to choose good over evil evil behind something that doesn’t us that as we live righteously, the still, is precisely why we are here.12 appear evil? small voice will come into our mind Not one of us would say, “I want to You already know the answers, but and into our heart.19 You have felt this choose evil.” We all want to choose here are a few thoughts: influence. You know this voice.20 the right. However, the choice of First, talk to your parents. Does The gift of the Holy Ghost is a spir- good over evil is not always easy, that sound like a revolutionary idea? itual gift. It is sensitive and will not be because evil frequently lurks behind We fathers know we are far from per- associated with unworthiness. You smiling eyes. Listen to these warnings: fect, but we love you, and along with cannot offend or ignore it one day “Take heed . . . that ye do not judge your mothers, have a deep interest in and expect it to strengthen you the that which is evil to be of God.”13 your choosing the right. next day. But as you heed its prompt- “Ye must watch and pray always Next, follow the prophet. These ings and remain righteous, it will lest ye enter into temptation; for 15 men we sustain as prophets, seers, grow stronger within you. The Holy Satan desireth to have you.”14 and revelators are given divine power Ghost warned my friend of physical “Satan hath sought to deceive you, to see what we sometimes do not see. danger; the Holy Ghost will also warn that he might overthrow you.”15 President Hinckley has given us clear you of spiritual danger. The message is: Beware of the evil and specific counsel about the evil Finally, gain your own testimony of behind the smiling eyes! behind the smiling eyes.16 And you the Savior. Pray passionately. Read the

MAY 2005 47 Book of Mormon when no one is watching. Take time alone to think about who Jesus really is and how His Who’s on the life and sacrifice are important to you. Remember the example of the young Joseph Smith. When he lit the candle at night to read the Bible, it Lord’s Side? Who? was because he wanted to. When he ELDER ROBERT C. OAKS went into the grove to pray, he went alone.21 Of the Presidency of the Seventy As we increase our understanding and love for the Savior, His light will The Lord needs to know on whom He can rely. illuminate everything around us. We then will see evil for what it is.22 I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior. Words cannot describe His greatness and glory, His majesty and the Aaronic and the Melchizedek magnificence. He appeared with His Priesthoods. Father to the Prophet Joseph Smith. Unfortunately, far too many of these President Gordon B. Hinckley is the men, young and not so young, are prophet of God today. Brethren, we missing, absent without leave, AWOL. hold His holy priesthood. As we One day they each sat humbly remain worthy, we will be blessed to while men of authority laid hands see the evil behind the smiling eyes. I upon their heads and conferred the so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, priesthood upon them. That day they amen. ■ all made a covenant of obedience and service with the Lord. NOTES To understand the importance of 1. “A Chosen Generation,” Ensign, May 1992, 69. these covenants we need to ask our- 2. Personal correspondence, Mar. 7, 2005. selves, “What is the priesthood?” 3. See Moroni 7:12. Every alert deacon knows the answer 4. See Luke 24:36–39; John 1:14; 3 Nephi 12:48; D&C 76:23–24. to this question: The priesthood is 5. Moroni 7:17. the power to act in God’s name. 6. 2 Nephi 2:18. 7. 2 Nephi 2:27. his evening I would like to focus What does this mean to you dea- 8. See D&C 93:25; see also Bible Dictionary, my comments on a favorite cons, teachers, and priests? First, it “Devil,” 656. hymn’s rousing call to service: means you are authorized to pass, 9. See Moses 1:1–22. T 10. 2 Nephi 2:16. “Who’s on the Lord’s side? Who? / prepare, and bless the sacrament. Is 11. See Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s Now is the time to show” (Hymns, this a big deal? Absolutely! Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Liahona, no. 260). Who administered the first sacra- Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2; “Converts and Young Men,” Ensign, May In this, the dispensation of the ful- ment service that we have any record 1997, 47; “Living Worthy of the Girl You ness of time, as we prepare for the of? Of course the answer is the Lord Will Someday Marry,” Ensign, May 1998, 49. final satanic battles in anticipation of Jesus Christ. The evening before 12. See 2 Nephi 2:27. 13. See Moroni 7:14. the return of Christ to the earth, it is His suffering in the Garden of Geth- 14. 3 Nephi 18:18. very important to know who is on the semane, Christ prepared, blessed, and 15. D&C 50:3. Lord’s side. The Lord needs to know passed the sacrament to His disciples. 16. See Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2. on whom He can rely. So when we perform this sacred ordi- 17. See www.lds.org. Click on “Serving in the You would hope that every priest- nance, we are actually standing in for Church,” “Aaronic Priesthood/Young Men,” “For the Strength of Youth.” hood holder could be counted on to the Savior Himself. That is special! 18. D&C 21:6. show up for service in the ranks of John the Baptist laid his hands on 19. See D&C 8:2. the Lord’s army. Today in the Church the heads of Joseph Smith and Oliver 20. See D&C 18:36. 21. See Joseph Smith—History 1:11–20. there are about three million priest- Cowdery and conferred upon them 22. See Moses 1:1–22. hood holders, split evenly between the priesthood of Aaron and

48 Fathers and sons gather at a meetinghouse in Mexico for the priesthood session. declared, “I confer the Priesthood of heaven” (Helaman 10:7). Nephi Helaman’s 2,060 stripling warriors, Aaron, which holds the keys of the would have been a mighty leader in shoulder to shoulder, imply the need ministering of angels, and of the the Lord’s army in any dispensation. for great physical strength to join gospel of repentance, and of baptism What a great act of trust it is on the their ranks. But there is room for by immersion for the remission of part of our Father in Heaven to share every stout-hearted soul in this sins” (D&C 13:1). That is a significant with us a part of His power, that we endeavor. responsibility for men of any age. might assist Him in His grand work as We have an 11-year-old grandson, With that charge, we are clearly on it rolls forth to fill the earth. Andrew, who is confined to a wheel- the Lord’s side. Note how carefully we have been chair, maybe for the rest of his life. He What of the Melchizedek Priest- instructed on how to confer priest- will be ordained a deacon in the fall hood? The 84th section of the hood authority. When I turned 12 and will join the priesthood army of Doctrine and Covenants reads, “And years old, my father, Charles Oaks, and the Lord. His physical handicap will this greater priesthood administereth my bishop, George Collard, laid their not limit him in this war, because the the gospel and holdeth the key of the hands on my head and conferred weapons of choice are not spears and mysteries of the kingdom, even the upon me the Aaronic Priesthood and swords wielded on a chaotic field of key of the knowledge of God” (v. 19). ordained me a deacon. battle. This priesthood holds the power to Several years later, then Elder Rather, the weapons of eternal administer and lead, to bless and to Gordon B. Hinckley used this same worth reflecting the whole armor of heal, to teach and to seal. These heavenly directed procedure to God are truth, righteousness, faith, priesthood service activities clearly ordain me a Seventy. Each ordination prayer, and the word of God (see place the practicing brethren on the reflects additional divine trust and a Ephesians 6:13–18). These weapons Lord’s side. new opportunity to serve on the are wielded in our minds, mouths, One of the greatest examples of Lord’s side. and movements. Every righteous priesthood sealing power is the story When armies are formed, battles thought, word, and deed is a victory of Nephi, son of Helaman. Because are generally fought on vast battle- for the Lord. of his diligence in declaring the word fields. But this battle for souls is quite That is why Andrew has no handi- of God, the Lord gave him sealing different. The conflict goes on each cap in this battle. His parents have power that “whatsoever ye shall day in individual lives and pits the taught him well. He stands ready to seal on earth shall be sealed in Lord’s troops against Satan’s forces of join the ranks of the priesthood heaven; and whatsoever ye shall greed, selfishness, and lust. brethren. loose on earth shall be loosed in The muscular young men of The stakes are extremely high. The

MAY 2005 49 And these statements of warning came well before a season of unprece- dented hurricane destruction in the Caribbean area and the tsunami dev- astation in East Asia. Our hymn “Who’s on the Lord’s Side?” instructs us, “Now is the time to show.” Now is the time to stand fast in our faith and on our principles, as did Captain Moroni. We are needed now, deacons, teachers, priests, bishops, elders, high priests, and patriarchs. Now is the time to show our appreciation for the atoning sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. Now is the prizes are the very souls of the sons of the times that the end is drawing time to show our faith through our and daughters of God, their eternal near. And Satan knows it as well. He obedience to such basic command- salvation. And these souls will be won and his forces never seem to sleep. ments as the laws of chastity and or lost on the basis of virtue and clean- In a worldwide priesthood leader- tithing, the Word of Wisdom, and liness, on the basis of charity and serv- ship training meeting, President keeping the Sabbath day holy. ice, and on the basis of faith and hope. Hinckley, noting the immoral condi- Now is the time to warn our neigh- Andrew will join the deacons quo- tions in the world, stated, “I do not bors by sharing the gospel message rum in his home ward. They will know that things were worse in the with them. Now is the time to provide teach him to pass the sacrament and times of Sodom and Gomorrah.” the world with an example of decency to collect fast offerings. They will look He went on to say, “They and their and modesty, an example of virtue after him, because that is what priest- wicked inhabitants were annihilated. and cleanliness. We should never hood quorums are all about—caring We see similar conditions today. They squander our priesthood power, wal- for one another. In fact that is how prevail all across the world. I think lowing in the corruptive, corrosive the Lord’s priesthood army is organ- our Father must weep as He looks filth and slime of pornography. ized, into quorums. down upon His wayward sons and Now is the time to review the I spent a majority of my life as a daughters” (“Standing Strong and covenants we have made with the Lord pilot in the United States Air Force. Immovable,” Worldwide Leadership at the waters of baptism, covenants The men of my squadron remain, to Training Meeting, Jan. 10, 2004, 20). we made when we accepted the oath this day, a tight-knit group, keeping in I do not know how much more and covenant of the priesthood, and close touch after 40 years. our prophet has to say for us to con- covenants we have made in His holy In our training as fighter pilots, sider ourselves warned. temples. one of the first and most basic rules In a recent conference talk, Elder Now is indeed the time to show was, “Take care of your wingman. Dallin H. Oaks stated: “These signs we are on the Lord’s side. Constantly check his six o’clock to of the Second Coming are all around Brethren, this is His work. The make certain no enemy is sneaking us and seem to be increasing in fre- gospel of Jesus Christ has been up behind him.” quency and intensity. . . . While we restored in its fulness in these last If it is good advice to protect com- are powerless to alter the fact of the days through the Prophet Joseph rades in a fighter squadron, it is great Second Coming and unable to know Smith. Christ stands at the head of advice to stay close to and protect our its exact time, we can accelerate our this Church, leading it forward through quorum members as we strive to own preparation and try to influence His living prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley. stand firm on the Lord’s side. We the preparation of those around us. Christ will return to the earth to rule should be eager to go out and find We need to make both temporal and and reign, and we will each, one day, them when they stray. spiritual preparation for the events stand before Him to be judged on our Standing firm on the Lord’s side is prophesied at the time of the Second thoughts, our deeds, and the desires especially valuable today. Our prophet Coming” (“Preparation for the Second of our hearts. He is our Savior and regularly points out that these are Coming,” Liahona and Ensign, May our Redeemer, and I so testify in His the last days. We know from the signs 2004, 7–9). holy name, amen. ■

50 gifted and able young people did not persevere and failed to achieve their Perseverance potential. In contrast, several less visible young men and women at the PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST same school worked diligently, perse- Second Counselor in the First Presidency vered, and continued with their education and became outstanding doctors, engineers, educators, lawyers, scien- Perseverance is demonstrated by those who keep going tists, businessmen, artisans, electri- when the going gets tough, who don’t give up even when cians, plumbers, and entrepreneurs. others say, “It can’t be done.” Success is usually earned by perse- vering and not becoming discouraged when we encounter challenges. Paul Harvey, the famous news analyst and it?” At that time about my only firm author, once said: “Someday I hope goal was to serve a mission. When my to enjoy enough of what the world mission call came, I served, and my calls success so that someone will ask mission became like the North Star to me, ‘What’s the secret of it?’ I shall say guide me into the other pursuits of simply this: ‘I get up when I fall my life. One of the important things I down.’ ”2 learned was that if I faithfully perse- An outstanding example of persevered in my Church callings, the Lord verance is Madame Marie Curie, who would open up the way and guide me worked together with her French to other opportunities and blessings, physicist husband, Pierre Curie, “in an even beyond my dreams. old abandoned leaky shed without Serving a mission can do this for funds and without outside encourage- all you young men. A young man ment or help, trying to isolate radium recently shared with me how much from a low-grade uranium ore called he had learned from his perseverance pitchblende. And after their 487th as a missionary. I draw from his expe- experiment had failed, Pierre threw up rience some of the things you can his hands in despair and said, ‘It will wish to welcome those Brethren learn that would bring opportunities never be done. Maybe in a hundred who were called and sustained and blessings to you: years, but never in my day.’ Marie con- I this afternoon to be members of fronted him with a resolute face and the First and Second Quorums of the 1. How to organize and use time said, ‘If it takes a hundred years, it Seventy. Each one is a man of faith wisely will be a pity, but I will not cease to and ability and commitment, and we 2. The importance of hard work— work for it as long as I live.’ ”3 She certify to you that they are worthy in that you reap what you sow was eventually successful, and cancer all respects to hold these offices. 3. Leadership skills patients have benefited greatly from My dear brethren of the great 4. People skills her perseverance. worldwide brotherhood of the priest- 5. The value of gospel study Perseverance is demonstrated by hood, we commend you for your 6. Respect for authority those who keep going when the going faithfulness and your dedication to the 7. The importance of prayer gets tough, who don’t give up even work of the Lord. We thank you for 8. Humility and dependence on the when others say, “It can’t be done.” In your commitment and your devoted Lord1 1864 the First Presidency assigned service. You contribute much to the Apostles Ezra T. Benson and Lorenzo strength of the Church. When I went to Granite High Snow, along with Elders Alma Smith It is wonderful to be in this meeting School in Salt Lake City in the 1930s, I and William W. Cluff, on a mission to with all of you who hold the Aaronic had some friends who excelled in ath- the Hawaiian Islands. From Honolulu Priesthood. When I was your age I letics, drama, music, and speech. they took passage on a small boat to used to wonder, “What will be my Some of them went on to achieve suc- the little harbor of Lahaina. As they place in this world, and how will I find cess in life, but too many of those approached the reef, the surf was

MAY 2005 51 story was the boy who was shot in the hip at Haun’s Mill, destroying the hip joint and socket. His mother dressed the terrible wound with some balsam and then was inspired to have him lie on his face for five weeks. A flexible gristle grew in place of the missing joint and socket so that he was able not only to live a normal life but also to serve a mission to Hawaii and give a lifetime of service to the Church.5 Our latter-day prophets are all examples of determination through priesthood, prayer, and work. Joseph Smith’s perseverance made possible the Restoration of all things. All of his life he was treated with contempt and ridicule—from the time he first related the account of the First Vision running high and a heavy swell struck more could be done for him. But the to a preacher of a prominent religion. the boat, carrying it about 50 yards determined elders would not give up. But he never faltered and left with us and leaving it in a trough between two So they prayed again, with the quiet his unwavering testimony: huge waves. When the second swell assurance that the Lord would hear “I had actually seen a light, and struck, the boat capsized into the and answer their prayers. in the midst of that light I saw two foaming sea. They were impressed to do some- Personages, and they did in reality The people on the shore manned thing rather unusual for that day and speak to me; and though I was hated a lifeboat and picked up three of the time. One of them placed his mouth and persecuted for saying that I had brethren, who were swimming near over Brother Snow’s in an effort to seen a vision, yet it was true; . . . I had the submerged boat. But there was inflate his lungs, alternately blowing seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew no sign of Brother Snow. Hawaiians in and drawing out air, imitating the that God knew it, and I could not accustomed to the surf swam in every natural process of breathing. Taking deny it, neither dared I do it.”6 direction to search for him. Eventually turns, they persevered until they suc- Brigham Young’s life was the very one of them felt something in the ceeded in inflating his lungs. A little essence of perseverance. He was water, and they pulled Brother Snow while later they perceived faint indica- always faithful and resolute. After to the surface. His body was stiff, and tions of returning life. “A slight wink Joseph Smith’s death he had the bold he looked like he was dead as they of the eye, which, until then, had determination to bring 60,000 people hauled him into the boat. been open and death-like, and a very from the comfort of their homes and Elder Smith and Elder Cluff laid faint rattle in the throat, were the first productive lands to a barren wilder- Brother Snow’s body across their symptoms of returning vitality. These ness. This great exodus was unlike laps and quietly administered to him, grew more and more distinct, until any other in modern history. They asking the Lord to spare his life that consciousness was fully restored.” came in wagons, on foot, and pulling he might return to his family and With their perseverance and the smile handcarts. He and his followers made home. When they reached the shore, of merciful Providence, all four of the the desert blossom as a rose. they carried Brother Snow to some Lord’s servants survived and were At the first press conference large empty barrels lying on the able to complete their missions.4 when President Gordon B. Hinckley beach. Laying him face downwards Elder Snow went on to become the was introduced to the press as the on one of them, they rolled him back President of the Church. While serv- President of the Church in 1995, he and forth to expel the water he had ing in that office, he stabilized the was asked what his focus would be. swallowed. Church’s funds by urging the mem- He answered: “Carry on. Yes. Our After the elders worked over him bers to pay their tithes and offerings. theme will be to carry on the great for some time, without any indication You brethren will be interested to work which has been furthered by of life, the bystanders said that nothing know that the Alma Smith in this our predecessors.”7 This is a great

52 theme for all of us. We need to carry on and endure to the end. One of the great accomplishments of President Hinckley’s administration has been his extraordinary perseverance in building temples. Since he became the President of the Church, 87 temples have been dedicated, rededicated, or announced. This remarkable achievement in temple building is unequaled in the entire history of the world. Temples have a great effect for good and are increasingly blessing the world. As President George Q. Cannon said, “Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed according to the order the Lord has revealed for his holy Priest- hood, lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence.”8 Each of us should serve faithfully and diligently in our priesthood callings until the end of our days. Some might wonder, “How long do I have to be a home teacher?” My answer is that home teaching is a priesthood calling. To serve in the calling of a home teacher is a privilege as long as our bishop and priesthood leaders feel we are able to do so. Some of us knew Brother George L. Nelson, a prominent attorney in Salt Lake City endure to the end in this life and to Oct. 1974, 86; or Ensign, Nov. 1974, 62. who served as a bishop, stake presi- enjoy the fellowship of the faithful 4. See Eliza R. Snow Smith, Biography and Family Record of Lorenzo Snow (1884), 11 dent, and patriarch. He was com- saints in the life to come.” As the 276–81. pletely committed to the Church. He Lord said, if we are to be His disciples, 5. See “Amanda Smith,” in Andrew Jensen, was a home teacher at age 100. He we must continue in His word.12 The comp., Historical Record, 9 vols. (1882–90), 5:83–88. said at that time: “I like being a home Lord has blessed the Church and its 6. Joseph Smith—History 1:25. teacher. I hope I can always be a members in remarkable ways because 7. Quoted in Jeffrey R. Holland, “President home teacher.”9 He died at age 101 of their faithfulness and perseverance. Gordon B. Hinckley: Stalwart and Brave He Stands,” Liahona, June 1995, special edi- and was faithful to the end. I testify of the divinity of the holy work tion, 2; Ensign, June 1995, 2. Those who desire to be baptized of the priesthood and do so in the 8. “The Logan Temple,” Millennial Star, into the Church are required by the holy name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ Nov. 12, 1877, 743. 9. Quoted in Elinor G. Hyde, “At 100 Years Lord to have “a determination to serve NOTES Old, He’s Faithful Home Teacher,” Church 10 him to the end.” President Joseph 1. Dan Kartchner, personal communication. News, June 6, 1998, 7. Fielding Smith, at age 94, said, “I have 2. Quoted in Marvin J. Ashton, in Conference 10. D&C 20:37. Report, Oct. 1981, 126; or Ensign, Nov. 11. In Conference Report, Oct. 1970, 92; or sought all my days to magnify my call- 1981, 89. Improvement Era, Dec. 1970, 27. ing in that priesthood and hope to 3. Sterling W. Sill, in Conference Report, 12. See John 8:31.

MAY 2005 53 covenant by transgressing commandments—but also by leaving undone The Sacred Call his duties. Accordingly, to break this covenant one needs only to do nothing.”3 A famed minister observed: “Men of Service will work hard for money. [Men] will PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON work harder for other men. But men will work hardest of all when they are First Counselor in the First Presidency dedicated to a cause. . . . Duty is never worthily performed until it is The performance of one’s duty brings a sense performed by one who would gladly 4 of happiness and peace. do more if only he could.” The performance of one’s duty brings a sense of happiness and peace. Wrote the poet:

thoughts and inspire my words. I slept and dreamt that life was joy. President Joseph F. Smith made I awoke and saw that life was duty. the following statement concerning I acted, and behold— the priesthood. Said he: “The Holy Duty was joy.5 Priesthood is that authority which God has delegated to man, by which The call of duty can come quietly he may speak the will of God. . . . It is as we who hold the priesthood re- sacred, and it must be held sacred by spond to the assignments we receive. the people. It should be honored and President George Albert Smith, that respected by them, in whomsoever it modest yet effective leader, declared, is held.”1 “It is your duty first of all to learn what The oath and covenant of the the Lord wants and then by the power priesthood pertains to all of us. To and strength of [your] holy Priesthood those who hold the Melchizedek to [so] magnify your calling in the Priesthood, it is a declaration of our presence of your fellows . . . that the requirement to be faithful and obedi- people will be glad to follow you.”6 ent to the laws of God and to mag- What does it mean to magnify a too wish to express my welcome nify the callings which come to us. calling? It means to build it up in dig- to those who have been called to To those who hold the Aaronic nity and importance, to make it hon- I new assignments at this confer- Priesthood, it is a pronouncement orable and commendable in the eyes ence and my hearty congratulations concerning future duty and responsi- of all men, to enlarge and strengthen to those who have received honorable bility, that they may prepare them- it, to let the light of heaven shine releases from their service. The work selves here and now. through it to the view of other men. moves forward. We love each of you. Said President Marion G. Romney, And how does one magnify a call- My dear brethren, I am honored a former member of the First Presidency: ing? Simply by performing the service by the privilege to speak to you this “Every bearer of the Melchizedek that pertains to it. An elder magnifies evening. What a joy to see this mag- Priesthood should give diligent and the ordained calling of an elder by nificent Conference Center filled to solemn heed to the implications of learning what his duties as an elder capacity with those both young and this oath and covenant which he has are and then by doing them. As with old who hold the priesthood of God. received. Failure to observe the an elder, so with a deacon, a teacher, To realize that similar throngs are obligations imposed by it is sure to a priest, a bishop, and each who assembled throughout the world bring disappointment, sorrow, and holds office in the priesthood. brings to me an overwhelming sense suffering.”2 Poet and author Robert of responsibility. I pray that the inspi- Added President Spencer W. Louis Stevenson reminded us, ration of the Lord will guide my Kimball: “One breaks [his] priesthood “I know what pleasure is, for

54 I have done good work.” Brethren, let us remember the counsel of King Benjamin: “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”7 Let us reach out to rescue those who need our help and lift them to the higher road and the better way. Let us focus our thinking on the needs of priesthood holders and their wives and children who have slipped from the path of activity. May we listen to the unspoken message from their hearts. You will find it to be familiar: “Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, / Help me find the way. / Teach me all that I must do / To live with him someday.”8 The work of reactivation is no task for the idler or daydreamer. Children grow, parents age, and time waits for no man. Do not postpone a prompting; rather, act on it, and the Lord will open the way. Frequently the heavenly virtue of patience is required. As a bishop I felt prompted one day to call on a man whose wife was somewhat active, as were the children. This man, however, had never responded. It was a hot summer’s day when I knocked on the screen door of Harold G. Gallacher. I could see Brother Gallacher sitting in his chair reading the newspaper. “Who is it?” he queried, without looking up. “Your bishop,” I replied. “I’ve come to get acquainted and to urge your ward is here in the office and would the Church. With a smile, he replied: attendance with your family at our like to talk to you.” “I’m a counselor in my ward bish- meetings.” I responded, “Ask him if his name opric. Your invitation to come out to “No, I’m too busy,” came the dis- is Harold G. Gallacher who, with his church, and my negative response, so dainful response. He never looked family, once lived at Vissing Place on haunted me that I determined to do up. I thanked him for listening and West Temple and Fifth South.” something about it.” departed the doorstep. She said, “He is the man.” Harold and I visited together The Gallacher family moved to I asked her to send him in. We had on numerous occasions before he California shortly thereafter. Many a pleasant conversation together con- passed away. The Gallachers and their years went by. Then, as a member cerning his family. He told me, “I’ve children filled many callings in the of the Quorum of the Twelve, I was come to apologize for not getting Church. working in my office one day when out of my chair and letting you in the President Stephen L Richards, who my secretary called, saying, “A Brother door that summer day long years served as a counselor to President Gallacher who once lived in your ago.” I asked him if he was active in David O. McKay, declared, “The

MAY 2005 55 Priesthood is usually simply defined as faces of those who had worked fever- ‘the power of God delegated to man.’ ” ishly to make the house new. Tears He continues: “This definition, I think, welled in their eyes as they witnessed is accurate. But for practical purposes I the joy they had brought into the lives like to define the Priesthood in terms of Adele and her daughters. Not only of service, and I frequently call it ‘the had a widow’s burden been made perfect plan of service.’ . . . It is an lighter, but countless other lives were instrument of service . . . and the man touched in the process. All were bet- who fails to use it is apt to lose it, for ter people for having participated in we are plainly told by revelation that this effort. he who neglects it ‘shall not be President Harold B. Lee, one of counted worthy to stand.’ ”9 the great teachers in the Church, gave This past January, I had the privi- us this easy-to-understand counsel lege of witnessing a profound act of regarding the priesthood. Said he: service in the life of a woman who “You see, when one becomes a holder had lived in my ward when I served as of the priesthood, he becomes an bishop many years ago. Her name is agent of the Lord. He should think of Adele, and she and her two grown his calling as though he were on the daughters—one of whom is handi- Lord’s errand.”10 capped—have lived for many years in Now, some of you may be shy by the Rose Park area of the Salt Lake nature, perhaps feeling yourselves Valley. Adele, who is a widow, has inadequate to respond affirmatively struggled financially, and her life has to a calling. Remember that this work often been difficult. is not yours and mine alone. It is the I had received a telephone call Lord’s work, and when we are on the from an individual involved with the blindfolds in place. What a thrilling Lord’s errand, brethren, we are enti- Gingerbread House Project inviting moment it was when the blindfolds tled to the Lord’s help. Remember me to the unveiling of Adele’s home, were removed and Adele and her that the Lord will shape the back to the renovation of which had been daughters turned around and saw bear the burden placed upon it. undertaken during a period of just their new home. They were absolutely While the formal classroom may over three days and nights by many stunned by the magnificent project be intimidating at times, some of the kind and generous individuals, all which had been completed, including most effective teaching takes place working voluntarily with materials a redesign of the front, an extension of other than in the chapel or the class- donated by numerous local busi- the home itself, and a new roof. The room. Well do I remember that dur- nesses. During the time the makeover outside looked new and immaculate. ing the spring season some years ago, of her home had been accomplished, They could not help but cry. members of my ward and an adjoin- Adele and her two daughters had I accompanied Adele and others ing ward, holding the Aaronic Priest- been hosted in a city a number of as we entered the home and were hood, would eagerly look forward to miles away where they themselves amazed at what had been accom- an annual outing commemorating the had received some pampering. plished to beautify and enhance the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood. I was present when the limousine surroundings. The walls had been On this particular occasion we jour- bearing Adele and her daughters painted, the floor coverings changed. neyed by bus 90 miles north to the arrived on the scene. The group There were new furnishings, new cur- Clarkston, Utah, cemetery. There, in which had been waiting for them tains, new drapes. The cupboards in the quiet of that beautiful setting, included not only family and friends the kitchen had been replaced; there we gathered the youth around the but also many of the craftsmen who were new countertops and new appli- grave of Martin Harris, one of the had worked night and day on the ances. The entire house had been Three Witnesses of the Book of project. It was obvious they were done over from top to bottom, each Mormon. While we surrounded the pleased with the result and were anx- room spotless and beautiful. Adele beautiful granite shaft which marks ious to see the reaction of Adele and and her daughters were literally over- his grave, Elder Glen L. Rudd, then her daughters. come. However, just as poignant and the bishop of the other ward, pre- The women stepped from the car, touching were the expressions on the sented the background of the life of

56 Martin Harris and read from the Book of Mormon his testimony and that of Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer. The young men listened with rapt attention, realizing they were standing at the grave site of one who had seen an angel and had actually beheld the plates with his own eyes. They rever- ently touched the granite marker des- ignating the grave and pondered the words they had heard and the feelings they had felt. Then we walked a short distance to a pioneer grave. The marker bore the name of John P. Malmberg and con- tained the verse:

A light from our household is gone. A voice we loved is stilled. A place is vacant in our hearts That never can be filled.

We talked with the boys about sacrifice, about dedication to truth. Duty, honor, service, and love—all were taught by that tombstone. In memory’s eye I can see the boys reach for their handkerchiefs to wipe away a tear. Heard yet are the sniffles which testified that hearts were touched and commitments made. I believe each youth had determined to be a pioneer—one who goes before, showing others the way to follow. We then retired as a group to a local park, where all enjoyed a pic- nic lunch. Before turning home- temple doors lodged in those the name of Jesus Christ, our ward, we stopped at the grounds of youthful hearts. Thoughts turned to Savior, amen. ■ the beautiful Logan temple. It was a the Master; His presence was close. NOTES warm day. I invited the boys to His gentle invitation “Follow me” 1. Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. (1939), 140. stretch out on the spacious lawn was somehow heard and felt. 2. In Conference Report, Mexico City Mexico and with me gaze at a sky of blue, To all who willingly respond to Area Conference 1972, 73. 3. The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. marked by white, billowy clouds the sacred call of service comes the Edward L. Kimball (1982), 497. hurried along on their journey by a promise: “I, the Lord, am merciful 4. Harry Emerson Fosdick, in Vital steady breeze. We admired the and gracious unto those who fear Quotations, comp. Emerson Roy West (1968), 38. beauty of this magnificent pioneer me, and delight to honor those who 5. Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941). temple. We talked of sacred ordi- serve me in righteousness and in 6. In Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 14. 7. Mosiah 2:17. nances and eternal covenants. truth unto the end. 8. Naomi W. Randall, “I Am a Child of God,” Lessons were learned. Hearts were “Great shall be their reward and Hymns, no. 301. touched. Covenants and promises eternal shall be their glory.”11 9. In Conference Report, Apr. 1937, 46. 10. In Conference Report, Mexico City Mexico became much more than words. My sincere prayer is that all of us Area Conference 1972, 77. The desire to be worthy to enter may qualify for this divine promise, in 11. D&C 76:5–6.

MAY 2005 57 own homes. Many cannot leave it alone. It becomes addictive. In so Gambling many cases it leads to other destructive habits and practices. PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY And so very many of those who become involved cannot afford the money it takes. In many cases it robs If you have never been involved in poker games or other wives and children of financial security. forms of gambling, don’t start. If you are involved, The game of poker, as it is called, then quit now while you can do so. is becoming a college and even a high school craze. I read to you from a New York Times News Service article: of nepotism. As the lawyers say, I “For Michael Sandberg, it started a recused myself from participating. few years ago with nickel-and-dime However, I believe he is worthy and games among friends. qualified in every respect. In the first “But last fall, he says, it became the place, he had a great and wonderful source of a six-figure income and an mother. I wish I could recommend alternative to law school. his father. “Sandberg, 22, essentially splits his I mention this only because of my time between Princeton, where he is sensitivity concerning the matter of a senior and a politics major, and nepotism. Please do not hold it against Atlantic City, where he plays high- him for his relationship to me. He’s stakes poker. . . . powerless to help it. “Sandberg’s is an extreme example Now, to go on to the subject that of a gambling revolution on the I wish to discuss tonight. I do so in nation’s college campuses. Sandberg response to a number of requests that calls it an explosion, one spurred by have come to me concerning the televised poker championships and a position of the Church on a practice proliferation of Web sites that offer y dear brethren, we’ve had a that is becoming more common online poker games. wonderful meeting. I wish to among us, and particularly among our “Experts say the evidence of gam- Mendorse all that has been said youth. That is the matter of gambling bling’s popularity on campus is hard and to leave my blessing with you. in various forms. to miss. In December, for example, a First I’d like to say just a word The story is told that one Sunday sorority at Columbia University con- concerning those we have sustained Calvin Coolidge, onetime president ducted its first, 80-player, poker tour- this afternoon as members of the of the United States and a man noted nament with a $10 buy-in, a minimum Quorums of the Seventy. for few words, returned from church. amount required to play, while the I am convinced that there are liter- His wife asked him what the preacher University of North Carolina con- ally hundreds of brethren worthy and spoke about. He replied, “Sin.” “What ducted its first tournament, a 175- capable to serve as general officers of did he say?” she asked. “He was against player competition, in October. Both the Church. We see them everywhere. it,” was his reply. games filled up and had waiting lists. Those sustained today have been cho- I think I could answer the question At the University of Pennsylvania, pri- sen to fill particular responsibilities. In concerning gambling just that briefly. vate games are advertised every night most cases, this will involve sacrifice, We are against it. in a campus e-mail list” (Jonathan which will be willingly made. Gambling is to be found almost Cheng, “Poker Is Major College Among those sustained, as you everywhere and is growing. People Craze,” in Deseret Morning News, have noted, is my 63-year-old son. I play poker. They bet on horse races Mar. 14, 2005, p. A2). make it clear that I did not advance and dog races. They play roulette The same thing is happening right his name. That was done by others and work the slot machines. They here in Utah. whose right it was to do so. I feel gather to play in bars, saloons, and A mother writes me as follows: extremely sensitive about the matter casinos, and, all too often, in their “My 19-year-old son plays poker on

58 the Internet, and the people on the invited my husband to sign up for the source of revenue. The operating Internet do not [seem to] care if you local poker championship game for a company also must have its profit. are not 21. All you have to do is have a fee. His friend said, ‘It’s not gambling. Then comes the winning ticket bank account with money in it. He has Your money just goes into this big holder. All others who bought tickets been playing steady for almost a year pot, and whoever wins gets the pot.’ ” are left empty-handed. now. He used to have a job, which he Is this gambling? Of course, it is. I am so grateful that when the Lord quit because he is so addicted to the Gambling is simply a process that established this Church He gave us Internet and poker playing for money takes money and does not offer a fair the law of tithing. I talked at one time right now. He enters poker tourna- return in goods or services. with an officer of another church ments all the time, and, if he wins, that We now have state lotteries on a which, I understand, relies on the is the money that he [uses] to buy the very large scale. Once the law almost playing of bingo for a substantial things that he needs. All he does is sit universally prohibited them. Now part of its income. I said to this man, and play on the Internet.” they are operated as a means of gain- “Have you ever considered tithing I am told that Utah and Hawaii are ing revenue. to finance your church?” He replied, now the only two states in the United Some 20 years ago, speaking in “Yes, and oh, how I wish that we States that have not legalized lotteries conference, I said: “Lottery fever might follow this practice instead of and gambling of various forms. From recently peaked when New York State playing bingo. But I do not expect the letters I have received from mem- announced that three winning tickets this change in my lifetime.” bers of the Church, it becomes appar- would split $41 million. People [had] Casinos have been opened on ent that some of our young people lined up to buy tickets. One winning Indian reservations as a means of start by playing poker. They get the ticket was held by 21 factory workers, securing income for those who own taste of getting something for nothing, with 778 second-place winners, and them. A few win, but most lose. They and then travel outside of the state to 113,000 who received token amounts. have to if some win and if the house where they can gamble legally. That may sound pretty good. is to make its profit. One writer says in a letter to me: “But there were also 35,998,956 One of our young men recently “I can see this evil creeping up in losers, each of whom had paid for a said, “Pay five bucks to see a movie; so many lives lately. It is all over chance to win [and received noth- pay five bucks to play poker—it is the the TV. ESPN has something called ing]” (in Conference Report, Oct. same idea.” Celebrity Poker and National Poker 1985, 67; or Ensign, Nov. 1985, 52). It is not the same idea. In one case Championships.” Some American states have you get something for which you pay; She continues: “One of our friends imposed heavy taxes on casinos as a in the other case, only one picks up

MAY 2005 59 Messages of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints, 6 vols. [1965–75], 1:139). Brigham Young, in October of 1844, said this concerning Nauvoo: “We wish to suppress all grogshops, gambling houses, and all other disor- derly houses or proceedings in our city, and to tolerate no intemperance or vice in our midst” (in Messages of the First Presidency, 1:242). Presidents of the Church and counselors in the Presidency have repeatedly spoken concerning this evil. George Q. Cannon, counselor to three Presidents of the Church, said: “There are many evils in the world which young folks need to be guarded against. One of these is gambling. There are various forms of this evil but they are all bad and should not be indulged in” (Gospel Truth: Discourses and Writings of President George Q. Cannon, sel. Jerreld L. Newquist, 2 vols. [1974], 2:223). President Joseph F. Smith stated, “The Church does not approve of gambling but strongly condemns it as morally wrong, and classes also with this gambling, games of chance and lottery, of all kinds, and earnestly disapproves of any of its members engaging therein” (“Editor’s Table,” Improvement Era, Aug. 1908, 807). President Heber J. Grant counseled: “The Church has been and now is unalterably opposed to gambling in any form whatever. It is opposed to any game of chance, occupation, the winnings and the others are left domestic circle, and throughout our or so-called business, which takes empty-handed. neighborhood; but as we could not money from the person who may be Experience has shown that the associate with our neighbors . . . in possessed of it without giving value playing of poker can lead to an obses- their midnight revels, their Sabbath received in return. It is opposed to all sion to gambling. breaking, horse racing and gambling, practices the tendency of which is to From the early days of this Church, they commenced at first to ridicule, . . . degrade or weaken the high moral gambling has been denounced. then to persecute, and finally an standard which the members of the As far back as 1842, Joseph Smith organized mob assembled and burned Church, and our community at large, described conditions when the Saints our houses, tarred and feathered and have always maintained” (in Messages lived in Missouri. Said he, “We made whipped many of our brethren, and of the First Presidency, 5:245). large purchases of land, our farms finally, contrary to law, justice and President Spencer W. Kimball said: teemed with plenty, and peace and humanity, drove them from their habi- “From the beginning we have been happiness were enjoyed in our tations” (in James R. Clark, comp., advised against gambling of every

60 sort. The deterioration and damage comes to the person, whether he wins or loses, to get something for nothing, something without effort, something without paying the full price” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1975, 6; or Ensign, May 1975, 6). Elder Dallin H. Oaks, who is with us tonight, in 1987 delivered a masterful discourse on this subject at what was then Ricks College. It was entitled “Gambling—Morally Wrong and Politically Unwise” (see Ensign, June 1987, 69–75). To these statements of the position of the Church I add my own. The pursuit of a game of chance may seem like harmless fun. But there attaches to it an intensity that actually shows on the faces of those who are (See Christian Smith and Melinda and large they excel in a most remark- playing. And in all too many cases this Lundquist Denton, Soul Searching: able way. I should add that there is practice, which appears innocent, can The Religious and Spiritual Lives of no time to play poker for these high lead to an actual addiction. The Church American Teenagers [2005].) school students. has been and is now opposed to this They reached the conclusion that My dear young friends to whom I practice. If you have never been in- our LDS youth know more about speak tonight, you mean so very volved in poker games or other forms their faith, are more committed to it, much to us. You are so very impor- of gambling, don’t start. If you are and abide more closely by its teach- tant. As members of this Church and involved, then quit now while you ings concerning social behavior than as holders of the priesthood, you can do so. do their peers. have so great a responsibility. Please, There are better ways to spend One of the researchers stated, “The please do not fritter away your time one’s time. There are better pursuits LDS Church asks a lot of its teenagers, or your talents in an aimless pursuit. to occupy one’s interest and energy. and . . . more often than not, they get If you do so, it will lessen your capac- There is so much of wonderful read- it” (in Elaine Jarvik, “LDS Teens Rank ity to do worthwhile things. I believe ing available. We are not likely to ever Tops in Living Their Faith,” Deseret it will dull your sensitivity to your get too much of it. There is music to Morning News, Mar. 15, 2005, p. A3). studies in school. It will disappoint be learned and enjoyed. There is just Our young people were found to your parents, and as the years pass having a good time together—in be more likely to hold the same reli- and you look back, you will be disap- dancing, in hiking, in cycling, or in gious beliefs as their parents, to attend pointed with yourselves. other ways—boys and girls together religious services once a week, to The priesthood which you hold as enjoying one another’s company in a share their faith with others, to engage young men carries with it the privi- wholesome way. in fasting or some other form of self- lege of the ministering of angels. That I have been reading a new book, denial, and to have less doubt about companionship, I submit, is incom- recently published by the Oxford their religious beliefs. patible with indulgence in games of University Press, which has received Commentators on the study speak chance. considerable attention among us. It of our youth arising early in the morn- “Choose the right when a choice is contains a study conducted by mem- ing to attend seminary. “It is hard to placed before you” (“Choose the bers of the faculty of the University of get up so early,” one seminary student Right,” Hymns, no. 239). North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It deals said. “But there are blessings that May heaven’s blessings rest upon with the religious and spiritual lives of come from doing it. It is a wonderful you, I humbly pray, as I leave you my American teenagers. Those who con- way to start the day.” testimony of this work and my love ducted the study questioned young The researchers point out that not for all who are engaged in it, in the people of various faiths and traditions. all of our youth are perfect, but by sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

MAY 2005 61 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION April 3, 2005

Holiness speaks when there is silence, encouraging that which is good or Standing reproving that which is wrong. Holiness is also a standard of righteousness. In some remarks by President Brigham Young in the Salt in Holy Places Lake Tabernacle, February 16, 1862, PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST he used the expression “Holiness to the Lord.” He then further explained Second Counselor in the First Presidency what “Holiness to the Lord” meant to him. I quote: “Thirty years’ expe- I encourage our Saints all over the world, wherever possible, rience has taught me that every to strive to stand more often in holy places. moment of my life must be holiness to the Lord, resulting from equity, justice, mercy and uprightness in all my actions, which is the only course by which I can preserve the Spirit of the name, and worship me according to Almighty to myself.”4 mine everlasting gospel, should gather Last year one of my grandsons together, and stand in holy places.”2 took his wife to New York City with We unavoidably stand in so many their parents to attend the beautiful unholy places and are subjected to new Manhattan temple. The hustle so much that is vulgar, profane, and and bustle and noise of the thousands destructive of the Spirit of the Lord of people outside was deafening. As that I encourage our Saints all over the taxi pulled up in front of the tem- the world, wherever possible, to strive ple, Katherine, my grandson’s wife, to stand more often in holy places. began to cry. Even on the outside of Our most holy places are our sacred the temple she felt its sacredness. temples. Within them is a feeling of They entered, left the noisome world, sacred comfort. We should seek to and worshiped in the house of the be worthy to take our families to the Lord. It was a sacred and unforget- temple to be sealed together for eter- table experience for them. nity. We should also search for the As President Gordon B. Hinckley records of our kindred dead so that taught us: “There is need occasionally y dear brethren, sisters, and they too can be sealed to us in one of to leave the noise and the tumult of friends all over the world, it the temples. We must strive for holi- the world and step within the walls of Mis a joy and a great responsi- ness by being “an example of the a sacred house of God, there to feel bility to address you. I express my believers, in word, in conversation, His Spirit in an environment of holi- love, respect, and appreciation for in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”3 ness and peace.”5 Truly, Joseph each of you. In this way we can maintain and Smith’s prayer at the dedication of the We are bombarded on all sides by strengthen our own individual rela- Kirtland Temple has been answered: a vast number of messages we don’t tionship with our God. “And that all people who shall enter want or need. More information is Holiness is the strength of the soul. upon the threshold of the Lord’s generated in a single day than we can It comes by faith and through obedi- house may feel thy power, and feel absorb in a lifetime. To fully enjoy life, ence to God’s laws and ordinances. constrained to acknowledge that . . . it all of us must find our own breathing God then purifies the heart by faith, is thy house, a place of thy holiness.”6 space and peace of mind.1 How can and the heart becomes purged from At the funeral of Patriarch Joseph we do this? There is only one answer. that which is profane and unworthy. Smith Sr., his feelings about the temple We must rise above the evil that When holiness is achieved by con- were described in these words: “To encroaches upon us. We must follow forming to God’s will, one knows dwell in the house of the Lord, and to the counsel of the Lord, who said, “It intuitively that which is wrong and inquire in his temple, was his daily is my will, that all they who call on my that which is right before the Lord. delight; and in it he enjoyed many

62 MAY 2005 63 GENERAL AUTHORITIES OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS THE FIRST PRESIDENCY April 2005

President Thomas S. Monson President Gordon B. Hinckley President James E. Faust First Counselor Second Counselor THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES

Boyd K. Packer L. Tom Perry Russell M. Nelson Dallin H. Oaks M. Russell Ballard Joseph B. Wirthlin

Richard G. Scott Robert D. Hales Jeffrey R. Holland Henry B. Eyring Dieter F. Uchtdorf David A. Bednar

THE PRESIDENCY OF THE SEVENTY

Earl C. Tingey D. Todd Christofferson David E. Sorensen Charles Didier Merrill J. Bateman John H. Groberg Robert C. Oaks THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY (in alphabetical order) (in alphabetical order)

Carlos H. Amado Neil L. Andersen Monte J. Brough Sheldon F. Child L. Whitney Clayton Gary J. Coleman Spencer J. Condie Mervyn B. Arnold Douglas L. Callister Craig C. Christensen Shirley D. Christensen Darwin B. Christenson Adhemar Damiani

Gene R. Cook Quentin L. Cook Claudio R. M. Costa Benjamin De Hoyos Robert K. Dellenbach John B. Dickson David F. Evans James M. Dunn Daryl H. Garn D. Rex Gerratt H. Aldridge Gillespie Ronald T. Halverson Keith K. Hilbig

Christoffel Golden Jr. Walter F. González C. Scott Grow Bruce C. Hafen Donald L. Hallstrom F. Melvin Hammond Harold G. Hillam Spencer V. Jones Won Yong Ko Gerald N. Lund Clate W. Mask Jr. Dale E. Miller Robert F. Orton

Richard G. Hinckley F. Burton Howard Jay E. Jensen Marlin K. Jensen Kenneth Johnson Paul V. Johnson W. Rolfe Kerr Stephen B. Oveson William W. Parmley Wolfgang H. Paul Wayne S. Peterson H. Bryan Richards Ned B. Roueché

Yoshihiko Kikuchi Paul E. Koelliker John M. Madsen Richard J. Maynes Lynn A. Mickelsen Dennis B. Glenn L. Pace R. Conrad Schultz W. Douglas Shumway Dennis E. Simmons Lowell M. Snow Donald L. Staheli Robert R. Steuer Neuenschwander

Paul B. Pieper Bruce D. Porter Carl B. Pratt Ronald A. Rasband Lynn G. Robbins Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. Steven E. Snow David R. Stone H. Bruce Stucki Paul K. Sybrowsky William R. Walker Robert J. Whetten Richard H. Winkel THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC

Ulisses Soares Francisco J. Viñas Lance B. Wickman W. Craig Zwick Robert S. Wood H. Ross Workman Richard C. Edgley H. David Burton Keith B. McMullin First Counselor Presiding Bishop Second Counselor Members visit outside a meetinghouse in Antwerp, Belgium.

Left: A check of the satellite signal in the Madrid Spain East Stake before the broadcast of the Saturday afternoon session of general conference. Above: This couple is among those attending a conference broadcast in Makati, Philippines.

66 blessings, and spent many hours in sweet communion with his heavenly Father. He has trod its sacred aisles, solitary and alone from mankind, long before the king of day has gilded the eastern horizon; and he has uttered his aspirations within its walls, when nature has been asleep. In its holy enclosures have the visions of heaven been opened to his mind, and his soul has feasted on the riches of eternity.”7 I am grateful that our temples all bear the words “The House of the Lord, Holiness to the Lord.” This reminder of holy places has roots that go back to the Old Testament. Zechariah reminds us that the day will come when “there [shall] be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD. . . . Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the Lord of hosts.”8 I greatly admire the door handles in the Salt Lake Temple. They are so art- fully designed, each bearing that holy places. Temple ceremonial measure of appreciation and of reminder “Holiness to the Lord.” covenants and observances are means mutual respect among us. And I am As a boy in southern Utah over 65 to help secure holiness of character. confident the Lord would smile with years ago, I used to feel a thrill when In our desire to create in our people greater favor upon us.”10 the words “Holiness to the Lord” more commitment to the holy work The Saints should do their family would appear on some of the build- of the temples, we must urge them to research and attend the temple ings in the little towns. Those golden look deeper to the profound spiritual because they are moved by the Holy words were often a central adornment meaning to be found there. As Paul Spirit to do so. We should go to the for most important buildings, such as reminded us, “For the letter killeth, temple, among other reasons, to safe- the co-op store and the bishops’ store- but the spirit giveth life.”9 guard our personal holiness and that house. I have in my possession some In our day President Gordon B. of our families. stock certificates of ZCMI, a pioneer Hinckley has told us: “If every man in In addition to temples, surely mercantile institution. They bear the this church who has been ordained to another holy place on earth ought to signatures of John Taylor, Brigham the Melchizedek Priesthood were to be our homes. The feelings of holi- Young, Wilford Woodruff, Joseph F. qualify himself to hold a temple rec- ness in my home prepared me for Smith, Lorenzo Snow, Heber J. Grant, ommend, and then were to go to the feelings of holiness in the temple. George Albert Smith, and David O. house of the Lord and renew his Before I went on my first mission to McKay. Printed on every stock certifi- covenants in solemnity before God Brazil, my mother lovingly hand made cate are the words “Holiness to the and witnesses, we would be a better a piece of temple clothing for me to Lord.” I wonder what has become people. There would be little or no wear when I went to the temple. It is of these mottoes of holiness? Have infidelity among us. Divorce would now old and frayed, but it is a special, they vanished with so many other almost entirely disappear. So much of sacred symbol of Mother’s love for reminders of faith and devotion? heartache and heartbreak would be that which is holy. The days of our lives will be greatly avoided. There would be a greater Thanks to my dear wife, Ruth, I can blessed as we frequent the temples to measure of peace and love and happi- say that our home has been a place learn the transcending spiritual rela- ness in our homes. There would be where we have sought to honor the tions we have with Deity. We need to fewer weeping wives and weeping spirit of holiness to the Lord. We did try harder to be found standing in children. There would be a greater not always succeed. Of course not. But

MAY 2005 67 gospel are borne. A convert in Texas said, when she walked through the chapel door, there was a feeling of holiness that she had never before experienced in her life. We must try harder to be a holy people. We live in the fulness of times. So much has been restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. This places upon us a special relationship to the Lord. We are the beneficiaries, guardians, and caretakers of these responsibilities under the delegation, authority, and direction of President Hinckley, who holds all the keys. As children of the Lord we should strive every day to rise to a higher level of personal righteousness in all of our actions. We need to guard constantly against all of Satan’s influences. As President Brigham Young taught, “Every moment of [our lives] must be holiness to the Lord, . . . which is the only course by which [we] can preserve the Spirit of the Almighty to [ourselves].” May the Lord bless each and all of us in our special responsibility to find holiness to the Lord by standing in holy places. That is where we will find the spiritual protection we need for ourselves and our families. That is the source of help to carry forth the word of the Lord in our time. Standing in holy places will help us rise above the evil influences of our time and draw us closer to our Savior. we tried. When I was overwhelmed as that important and appreciated serv- I testify that if we do this, the Lord will a young father with the responsibility ice. If we really want our homes to be bless us forever and we will be made of providing temporally for my family, places of holiness, we will try harder mighty “in faith and in works.”12 In the taking care of my Church callings and to do those things that are conducive name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ many other civic duties, Ruth would to the Spirit of the Lord. NOTES lovingly and gently bring me back to Our chapels are dedicated to the 1. See Jeff Davidson, “ ‘Overworked Americans’ or Overwhelmed Americans?” my parental responsibility in our home. Lord as holy places. We are told we Business Horizons, Jan.–Feb. 1994, 62–66. For example, she would remind should go to the house of prayer and 2. D&C 101:22. 3. 1 Timothy 4:12. me when it was time for home offer up our sacraments upon His 4. Deseret News, Apr. 2, 1862, 313. 11 evening and then tenderly suggest holy day. Partaking of the sacrament 5. “Of Missions, Temples, and Stewardship,” what we might appropriately study in is a solemn and sacred privilege. In Ensign, Nov. 1995, 53. 6. D&C 109:13. our home evenings. She would also our chapels we are instructed in prin- 7. History of the Church, 4:194. help me keep track of important fam- ciples of the gospel, children are 8. Zechariah 14:20–21. ily events such as birthdays and activi- blessed, members are confirmed and 9. 2 Corinthians 3:6. 10. Ensign, Nov. 1995, 53. ties of the children when they needed given the gift of the Holy Ghost, and 11. See D&C 59:9. my time and support. She still does testimonies of the truthfulness of the 12. Helaman 10:5.

68 gospel and know for themselves that God is our Heavenly Father and He One More loves all of His children, that Jesus is the Christ, and that together They ELDER M. RUSSELL BALLARD personally visited Joseph Smith to Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles open this, the final dispensation of time, they will want to help carry this message to the world. When our We need more hardworking, testimony-enriched youth see the Book of Mormon as missionaries in order to reach more of our tangible evidence that the message of Heavenly Father’s children. the Restoration is true, they will be filled with a desire to do their part in teaching these truths to our Heavenly Father’s children. capacity. It demands faith, desire, and We learned from the missionaries consecration. It demands clean hands at the Missionary Training Center and a pure heart.” what would have helped them most He went on to say: “The time has to prepare for their mission. Above all come when we must raise the stan- else they wished they had: dards of those who are called . . . as ambassadors of the Lord Jesus Christ. • Learned the doctrine better . . . We simply cannot permit those through focused scripture study. who have not qualified themselves as • Learned how to study and to pray to worthiness to go into the world to sincerely. speak the glad tidings of the gospel” • Been more disciplined and worked (“Missionary Service,” Worldwide harder. Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 11, • Understood better what is 2003, 17). expected. Today, we call for more qualified • Had more teaching opportunities. missionaries, young men who have • And had more searching interviews prepared to serve by accepting the by bishops and parents. rothers and sisters, a few challenge of our prophet “to practice weeks ago Sister Ballard and I self-discipline, to live above the low Brothers and sisters, together we Benjoyed speaking to the mis- standards of the world, to avoid can teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, sionaries at the Provo Missionary transgression and take the high road in its simplicity and power, to all of Training Center. We were thrilled to in all their activities” (“Missionary our youth in the Church. Working see their radiant, eager faces and feel Service,” 17). with parents, we can help them pre- the presence of the Spirit of the Lord. The work of the Lord in our 339 pare for a mission and a lifetime of These fine missionaries are well on missions is expanding, so we must service. Let us go forward to search their way to carrying the message of increase our efforts to see that every for every one of our precious youth, the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus 12-year-old young man is worthily regardless of their activity level, illu- Christ to the world. We thank par- ordained a deacon; every 14-year-old, a minating the Light of Christ that is ents, bishops, stake presidents, and teacher; every 16-year-old, a priest and within them. President Boyd K. especially our young people for that every 18 to 19-year-old worthily Packer said: “The Light of Christ is as responding to the prophet’s call for receives the Melchizedek Priesthood. universal as sunlight itself. Wherever more thorough spiritual preparation We can do this by filling the hearts of there is human life, there is the Spirit to serve the Lord. our young men with love for the Lord, of Christ. Every living soul is pos- As we “raised the bar” for mission- understanding and appreciation of His sessed of it. . . . It is the inspirer of ary service, President Gordon B. Atonement, and a clear vision of the everything that will bless and benefit Hinckley said: “This work is rigorous. marvel of the Restoration. mankind. It nourishes goodness It demands strength and vitality. It When our youth understand the itself” (“The Light of Christ,” Liahona demands mental sharpness and significance of the Restoration of the and Ensign, Apr. 2005, 13).

MAY 2005 69 So we know that all have within The message to raise the bar on mis- (“To the Bishops of the Church,” 27). them the Light of Christ. Our respon- sionary qualifications was not a signal Brothers and sisters, there is an sibility as parents, teachers, and lead- to send fewer missionaries but . . . a incredible amount of work that needs ers is to kindle that light in our youth call for parents and leaders to work to be done. The Spirit of the Lord is until the flame of testimony burns with young men earlier to better pre- brooding over many of the nations of deep within their hearts and souls and pare them for missionary service and the world. Doors previously locked then to encourage each one of them to keep them worthy of such service. are opening to us. We need more to take that flame and use it to help All young men who are worthy and hardworking, testimony-enriched mis- kindle the Light of Christ in others. who are physically and emotionally sionaries in order to reach more of Of course, the adversary knows able should prepare to serve in this our Heavenly Father’s children who this and is working overtime to influ- most important work” (“To the are now at a place where we can ence some of our youth to disregard Bishops of the Church,” Worldwide reach them. These are our brothers the teachings of the Church. That is Leadership Training Meeting, June 19, and sisters, and we have the responsi- why parents, leaders, and teachers 2004, 27). bility to teach them the message of need to counsel together and know Similarly, with reference to young the Restoration. every young man and young woman— women, the President said: “There has We know that great things happen every one. Whether they are active or been some misunderstanding of ear- in the lives of those who faithfully not, we need to know them. lier counsel regarding single sisters serve full-time missions. Missionary It is true that the bar has been serving as missionaries. We need service is not easy, but it is infinitely raised for our missionaries. This means some young women. They perform worth it. Those who serve and return that the bar has been raised for par- a remarkable work. They can get in home with honor have established a ents and leaders as well. We will need homes where the elders cannot. But it pattern of living and serving that will to increase our faith and expand our should be kept in mind that young sis- bless their own lives and the lives of efforts to give every young man the ters are not under obligation to go on generations to follow. They return bet- opportunity to serve. missions. They should not feel that ter prepared to be strong leaders and President Hinckley also expressed this they have a duty comparable to that of teachers in the organizations of the concern: “We need more missionaries. young men, but some will wish to go” Church. They return better prepared

70 to be righteous fathers and mothers the world, with the fulness of the and able to teach their children the gospel at their fingertips, because gospel. Full-time missionary service is they made valiant choices in the pre- a blessing for those whom the mis- mortal existence. Our youth need to sionaries find and teach as well as for stand firm for righteousness and the missionaries themselves. truth. They need the vision of the Now we have a special request for blessings that can be theirs as they you bishops and branch presidents. demonstrate their love for Heavenly We are aware that you already know Father and the Lord Jesus Christ those who have cleared the bar and through their willingness to serve. are preparing to accept mission calls Second, teach the doctrine. While during this year. What we are asking activities and social events have their leaders in every unit to do is to coun- appropriate place in our overall youth sel together with parents and pray to program, it is the doctrine that con- find at least one more young man, verts and commits. Our youth have a above those already committed, who right to expect that their parents and can be called to serve. If the over Church leaders and teachers will see 26,000 wards and branches in the pulled harder, and the colt planted his that they know and understand the Church will send all of those whom legs more firmly. So he really pulled, gospel of Jesus Christ. The Holy they are already planning to send into and the colt fell over. The process Ghost will confirm the truth to their the mission field plus one more, the was repeated several times until my hearts and will ignite the Light of ranks of our full-time missionaries will friend made this assessment: in just Christ in their souls. And then you swell and we will move much closer to four or five minutes he had success- will have one more fully prepared our divine mandate to take the gospel fully taught the colt to fall over. All he missionary. Yesterday, Elder Richard G. to every nation, kindred, tongue, and had to do was get in front of the colt, Scott suggested that Preach My people. Of course, these missionaries pick up the rope, and over it would go. Gospel, the new guide that our mis- need to be worthy, faithful, healthy, His wife, watching this process, sionaries are now using to teach the and fully committed. Perhaps this one finally suggested that instead of get- gospel, can be a good resource to more may not be ready right now. So ting in front of the colt and pulling, he help you. we ask parents and stake and ward might try wrapping the rope around Finally, we recognize that it may council members to rely upon the dis- the colt and simply walking alongside. not be wise for some of our young cerning power of the Holy Spirit to To my friend’s chagrin, it worked. men and young women to face the know whom you can help to be ready There seems to be something rigors and challenges of a full-time for a call this year. inside each of us that resists being told mission. If priesthood leaders excuse As you reach out to them, please or pushed or pulled. But if someone any of you from full-time missionary remember the experience of a friend puts an arm around a young man and service, we ask you and your families of mine. He had never owned a horse walks alongside him, he is likely to fol- to accept the decision and move for- in his life until he married a wonderful low along with a desire to serve. Please ward. You can prepare to participate woman who loves horses. Wanting to remember this as you strengthen the in the saving ordinances of the tem- impress his new bride, he announced testimony of one more who can serve. ple and find other ways to be of serv- one evening that he was going to the May I make three suggestions for ice. And we ask all of our members to pasture to teach a colt how to be led. your consideration to help establish a be supportive and to show great love He weighed more than the colt. He rich tradition of missionary service in and understanding in assisting all of knew more than the colt. He assumed your family, stakes, wards, or branches? our faithful youth in their various all he would need to do was pull on First, make sure all of our youth Church callings. the lead rope and sooner or later the understand who they are. From their Brothers and sisters, I add my testi- colt would follow. He was confident earliest days in Primary, our children mony of the divine mission of the that the process would be short and sing “I Am a Child of God” (Hymns, Lord Jesus Christ and pray that He will simple. no. 301). Help them to know what it bless all of us in our efforts to inspire He attached the lead rope to the really means to be a child of God. and motivate more of our youth and halter, got in front of the colt, and Remind them that they are here at couples to serve a full-time mission. In pulled. The colt resisted. My friend this particular time in the history of the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

MAY 2005 71 That night I went back to the bishop’s office and accepted his Faith Is invitation. He told me to go to the Selective Service Office and advise them of my decision. When I did so, to my surprise the the Answer lady who was chairman of the Selective ELDER DAVID E. SORENSEN Service Office told me: “If you accept a mission call, you will receive your draft Of the Presidency of the Seventy notice before you can reenter Army ROTC. You will serve as an enlisted Remember that faith and obedience are still the answers— man, not as an officer.” even when things go wrong, perhaps especially when Despite this unexpected change, my mission was wonderful. It things go wrong. changed the course of my life as it does for those who serve. But, true to their word, the government sent an induction letter drafting me into the an agreement with the U.S. govern- U.S. Army about one month before ment permitting each ward in the my mission release. Church in the United States to call After boot camp and military police one young man to serve a mission. school, I found myself assigned to an This young man would receive an army base to work as a military police- automatic deferment from the mili- man. One night I was given an all-night tary during his mission. assignment to escort a convoy of Bishop Freeman said he had been prisoners from one camp to another. praying about it and felt he should During the night the convoy recommend me to serve as a full-time stopped at a halfway point for a rest. missionary representing our ward. I The commanding officer instructed explained to him that I had already us to go into the restaurant and drink made other plans—I had enrolled in coffee so we could stay awake the rest the Army ROTC and expected to of the night. Right away he noticed become an officer! My bishop gently that I declined. He said, “Soldier, you reminded me that he had been need to drink some coffee to stay prompted to recommend me to serve awake the rest of this trip. I do not n the early 1950s the United States a mission at that particular time. He want any prisoners escaping or caus- was at war on the Korean penin- said, “Go home and talk to your par- ing trouble on my watch.” Isula. Because of the draft policy of ents and come back this evening with I said, “Sir, I respectfully decline. the government at that time, young your answer.” I am a Mormon, and I don’t drink men were not allowed to serve mis- I went home and told my father coffee.” sions but instead required to join the and mother what had happened. He didn’t care for my answer, and military. Knowing this, I enrolled in They said the bishop was inspired, he again admonished me to drink the the Army Reserve Officers’ Training and I should happily accept the Lord’s coffee. Corps when I went to college. My invitation to serve. My mother could Again, I politely refused. I took goal was to become an officer like my see how disappointed I was at the my place at the rear of the bus, my oldest brother. However, during a prospect of not becoming an army weapon in hand, praying in my heart visit home for the Christmas holiday, officer right away. She quoted: that I would stay awake and never my home-ward bishop, Vern “Trust in the Lord with all thine have to use it. The trip ended Freeman, invited me into his office. heart; and lean not unto thine own uneventfully. He advised me that a young Church understanding. A few days later the same com- leader by the name of Brother “In all thy ways acknowledge him, manding officer invited me into his Gordon B. Hinckley had negotiated and he shall direct thy paths.”1 office for a private interview. He told

72 she can but is never able to have the children she hopes for. Or the wife who does her very best making a good home for her family and raising her children, but whose husband leaves her. The scriptures have many examples of people who were saved after showing great faith, such as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego in the fiery furnace. But the scriptures also have many examples of devout people who did not get divine inter- vention during a crisis. Abinadi was burned at the stake; John the Baptist was beheaded; Alma and Amulek’s followers were cast into the flames. To do well does not mean everything will always turn out well. The key is to remember that faith and obedience are still the answers—even when things go wrong, perhaps especially when things go wrong. Remember the Lord has promised that He will help us as we face adversity. He has particular compassion for those who suffer. It was He who said, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”3 As part of the Atonement, our me that even though he had worried Through our actions. We must “go Savior suffered all things. He knows that I would not be able to stay awake and do the things which the Lord physical and emotional pain; He during the all-night trip, he appreci- hath commanded,”2 just as Nephi knows the sorrow of loss and betrayal. ated that I had stood by my convic- counseled. We must trust in the Lord But He showed us that ultimately love, tions. Then to my amazement he said with all our hearts, as my mother so patience, humility, and obedience are his assistant was being transferred lovingly taught me. Gratefully, many the path to true peace and happiness. and he was recommending me to be times when we exercise faith to do Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, my his new assistant! the Lord’s will, we find that we are peace I give unto you.” But then, to For most of the next two years I richly blessed for our obedience. warn us to look for more than just had many opportunities for leader- Sometimes, though, we find that worldly comfort, Jesus added, “Not as ship and managerial assignments. As even when we do our best to serve the world giveth, give I unto you.”4 it turned out, the positive experiences the Lord, we still suffer. You may know The world sees peace as the absence during my military service were more someone who faces these most chal- of conflict or pain, but Jesus offers us than I had ever dreamed possible. lenging of circumstances: consider the solace despite our suffering. His life From this simple story—and many parent whose child becomes ill, for was not free of conflict or pain, but it more like it over the course of my whom everyone prays and fasts with was free of fear and full of meaning. life—I have learned faith and obedi- all their heart and soul, but who ulti- The Apostle Peter wrote: “If, when ye ence are the answers to our concerns, mately dies. Or the missionary who do well, and suffer for it, ye take it cares, and suffering. Faith in the Lord sacrifices to go on a mission, then patiently, this is acceptable with God. Jesus Christ is truly the power that develops a terrible illness that leaves “For even hereunto were ye called: can change our lives and lead us to him or her severely disabled or in because Christ also suffered for us, salvation. chronic pain. Or the woman who lives leaving us an example, that ye should How can we build this faith? her life as faithfully and obediently as follow his steps: . . .

MAY 2005 73 “Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed him- 5 What Greater self to him that judgeth righteously.” We who have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior must rely wholly on the merits of Christ. He will save Goodness us after all we can do. When we courageously exercise our faith and when we go forward relying on the merits of Christ, He will bless us and Can We Know: guide us in all of our efforts. He will strengthen us and bring us peace in the time of our trials. “For we walk Christlike Friends by faith, not by sight.”6 I pray that each of us can better learn to put KATHLEEN H. HUGHES our trust in the Lord and to increase First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency our faith in Him. Now, brothers and sisters, in closing God knows the needs of His children, and He often works I wish to mention one other topic. Over the past years I have been through us, prompting us to help one another. blessed to be able to observe President Hinckley closely, and I want to remind you that President Hinckley is not only encountered was a young woman I a living prophet but also a living seer. didn’t recognize. She was lovely, and He sees things that others do not see. when she began to speak, I immedi- He has the gift of discernment; he is ately remembered: Robin, one of the an optimist and a realist. I wish to young women in my Laurel class express my gratitude to the Lord for when I was first a Young Women pres- preserving President Hinckley’s life ident. As we visited and exchanged and permitting him and his noble memories and life updates, she told counselors to lead the Church for me how much that time had meant to these past 10 years. Through Presi- her. I felt the same way. dent Hinckley’s divine guidance, the I left the temple feeling moved by Church has received many far-reaching so much kindness, aware how impor- blessings, many that are not obvious. I tant friends have been to me through- strongly encourage each of you to out my life. The Lord has touched my more closely follow his counsel and spirit time and again, and more often guidance, for truly “a seer hath the than not, His touch has reached me Lord raised up unto his people.”7 through the hand of a friend. Jesus is the Christ. Joseph is the few weeks ago my husband Thirty-eight years ago this month, prophet of the Restoration. President and I attended a temple ses- Dean and I, then newlyweds, trav- Gordon B. Hinckley is our living A sion. As we entered, we were eled to New Mexico to visit my par- prophet. In the name of Jesus Christ, greeted by a temple worker, a dear ents. While there, my father took us amen. ■ friend from our ward. That greeting on a day trip into the mountains in began a remarkable experience for us. the northern part of the state. In the NOTES We were met and served, more than afternoon, we encountered a car 1. Proverbs 3:5–6. 2. 1 Nephi 3:7. any time I remember, by many people stranded on the roadside with a flat 3. Matthew 5:4. we knew: friends from previous tire. The driver told my father that 4. John 14:27. wards, friends from the community, his spare was also flat and he needed 5. 1 Peter 2:20–21, 23. 6. 2 Corinthians 5:7. men and women we had served with a ride to the nearest town to get the 7. Moses 6:36. in various callings. The last person I tire fixed. My father, seeing the

74 man’s family inside the car, said to him, “You’ll never be able to get to town and back before dark. But listen, you have the same size wheel as mine. Take my spare, and the next time you come to Albuquerque, bring it back to me.” The stranger, shocked by the offer, said, “But you don’t even know me.” Daddy’s response, typical for him, was, “You’re an honest man, aren’t you? You’ll bring the tire back.” A few weeks later I asked my dad about the spare tire. He told me that it had been returned. My father, now in his 90th year, still goes about his life the same way. Most people his age receive meals- on-wheels, but my dad delivers food to the “aged.” He’s often at the bedside of friends who are ill or dying. He goes out with his chain saw helping the Rotary club with their annual cleanup efforts. As I think of Daddy’s life and actions, I’m reminded of President Boyd K. Packer’s thought: he’s “active in the gospel” (“The Golden Years,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2003, 82). His life, as the hymn One home teacher I know faith- our lives. Some of my friends are very suggests, touches lives for good, and fully made monthly visits to an elderly different from me. We disagree about in the touching, all are enriched (see widow. More than just visit, however, things, and we can even irritate each “Each Life That Touches Ours for each fall he winterized the sister’s air other. But friendship allows for differ- Good,” Hymns, no. 293). My father conditioner and checked the filter on ences—in fact, it embraces them. I understands friendship. her furnace. Was that God’s love or love to visit stakes made up of people As a Relief Society presidency, we the love of the home teacher? The from a variety of backgrounds, ages, sometimes hear women say that they answer, of course, is both. and ethnic origins. don’t feel the love of the Lord. But I’m experiencing right now a spe- perhaps they would feel more of His What greater gift dost thou bestow, cial dimension of sisterhood and love if they looked for His hand in the What greater goodness can we know friendship as I serve with Sisters actions of those who care for them. It Than Christlike friends, whose Parkin and Pingree and the other may be a member of their branch or gentle ways women in the auxiliary presidencies ward, a neighbor, or even a stranger Strengthen our faith, enrich our days. and boards. These are good women. who blesses them and manifests (Hymns, no. 293) Oh, how I love them. After three years Christ’s love. Elder Henry B. Eyring together, my dear sisters in the presi- instructed us: “You are called to rep- I have been blessed throughout dency know me well. They know my resent the Savior. Your voice to testify my life with Christlike friends—from faith and testimony, but they also becomes the same as His voice, your friends of my youth to the many peo- know my insecurities and worries. hands to lift the same as His hands” ple who have blessed our family in all They know that when I’m tired after a (“Rise to Your Call,” Liahona and the wards we have lived in. Their faith long training trip, I’m not my best self. Ensign, Nov. 2002, 76). If we can lift and commitment to the gospel of But I feel their love and patience, and others in Christ’s name, surely we can Jesus Christ, their service, their wise I know they still think the best of me. also be lifted. and gentle instruction have enriched Their testimonies and prayers bolster

MAY 2005 75 When we act on such promptings, we tread on holy ground, for we are allowed the opportunity to serve as an agent of God in answering a prayer. Brothers and sisters, if we are friends to the Prophet Joseph, then we are friends to the Savior as well. Do we live lives that proclaim “devotion to the Savior’s name”? (see Hymns, no. 293). Joseph Smith did, and in this year, as we honor the man who ushered in the dispensation of the fulness of times, we should remember not only his friendship to humanity, but his friendship and dedication to the Lord. The Prophet said: me. Their laughter brightens my day. skeptical about his calling and mis- “I will try to be contented with my lot, In every sense, we are sisters. sion. As I spoke to her, the words of knowing that God is my friend. In Him I have had similar experiences with the Lord to Oliver Cowdery came to I shall find comfort” (The Personal my own family. One of my younger me: “Stand by my servant Joseph, Writings of Joseph Smith, comp. sisters has been struggling with can- faithfully” (D&C 6:18). I hope that on Dean C. Jessee [1984], 239; spelling cer the past few months. We don’t live that day, and at every moment in my and punctuation standardized). close, but phone calls bring her near. life, it can be said of me, “She stood It should be obvious to each of us We have shared love, prayers, memo- by Joseph.” I want to be his friend. that our ultimate friendship should be ries, and tender testimonies as she Joseph Smith himself was a great with our Heavenly Father and His Son, has gone through this difficult ordeal. friend to many. He said, “Friendship is Jesus Christ. The Savior has affection- My sisters are treasured friends. So one of the grand fundamental princi- ately said to us, “I will call you friends, are my brothers, my dear husband, ples of ‘Mormonism’; [it is designed] for you are my friends” (D&C 93:45). my children, and my grandchildren to revolutionize and civilize the world, His greatest desire for us, His brothers (no matter how noisy those grand- and cause wars and contentions to and sisters, is to bring us back to our children are). cease and men to become friends and Father. And the way for us is clear: In the early years of the Restoration, brothers” (History of the Church, develop in our lives, to the degree new members gathered to create Zion. 5:517). that we can, the qualities and attrib- Zion was both a place and purpose—a And yet, he knew that friendship utes of Christ. Obey His command- spirit. We no longer gather in the same was more than an abstraction. He ments and do His work and His will. way. Our branches and wards are now learned one day that a brother’s As I think back to the day I was our Zion. But they take on the spirit of house had been burned by enemies. greeted in the temple by so many I Zion only when members care for one When Church members said they felt loved, I like to imagine that our daily another. Sadly, we sometimes hear of sorry for him, the Prophet took some lives can be equally blessed. I felt a women and men who have had their money from his pocket and said, “I love that seemed a glimpse of the feelings hurt and become alienated by feel sorry for this brother to the pure love of Christ—the charity that other Church members. If you are on amount of five dollars. How much should fill our hearts. I picture wards either side of this dilemma—the do you . . . feel sorry [for him]?” (in and branches where friends of all ages offender or the one who has been Hyrum L. Andrus and Helen Mae and backgrounds stand together and offended—seek forgiveness; see your Andrus, comps., They Knew the model their lives on the teachings of own part in the fault. Remember Prophet [1974], 150). Jesus Christ. Christ’s admonition to us: “I say unto Do we feel about friendship as the I bear you my testimony today that you, be one; and if ye are not one ye Prophet Joseph did? Do we turn our Christ lives. I give thanks for Him. I are not mine” (D&C 38:27). good feelings into practical assistance? pray that I may always be His friend I recently had the opportunity to God knows the needs of His children, and that in doing so, I will be your speak to a woman who asked me and He often works through us, friend as well. In the name of Jesus about Joseph Smith. She was clearly prompting us to help one another. Christ, amen. ■

76 When someone tells me that he or she is a convert to the Church, I ask, Hearts Bound “Has anyone else in your family accepted the gospel?” When the answer is “Yes,” there follows an excited description of the happy mira- Together cle in the life of a parent or a brother ELDER HENRY B. EYRING or sister or a grandparent. There is joy in knowing that someone in his or Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles her family is sharing the blessing and the happiness. When the answer is When you were baptized, your ancestors looked down “No, so far I am the only member,” he on you with hope. . . . They rejoiced to see one of their or she will almost always speak of parents, saying something like this, “No, descendants make a covenant to find them. not yet. But I am still trying.” And you can tell from the sound in the voice that the convert will never stop trying, not ever. restored gospel. He asked to be bap- The Lord knew you would have tized. The testimony of the Spirit those feelings when He allowed you made him want to follow the example to receive the covenants which are of the Savior, who was baptized by blessing your life. He knew you would John the Baptist even though He was feel a desire for your family to share without sin. the blessings you felt coming into the As I brought that young man up Church. Even more, He knew how out of the waters of baptism, he sur- that desire would increase when you prised me by throwing his arms came to know the joy of the promises around my neck and whispering in He makes to us in sacred temples. my ear, tears streaming down his There, for those who qualify, He lets face, “I’m clean, I’m clean.” That us make covenants with Him. We same young man, after we laid our promise to obey His commandments. hands on his head with the authority And He promises us, if we are faithful, of the Melchizedek Priesthood and that we may live with Him in glory in conferred on him the Holy Ghost, families forever in the world to come. said to me, “When you spoke those In His loving-kindness, He knew y message is to those who words, I felt something like fire go you would have a desire to be bound are converts to the Church. down from the top of my head forever to your parents and their par- MMore than half the members through my body, all the way to ents. You may have had a grandfather of the Church today chose to be bap- my feet.” like mine, who always seemed to treas- tized after the age of eight. So you are Your experience will have been ure my visits. I thought I was his not the exception in the Church. To unique to you, but to some degree favorite grandchild until my cousins you I wish to say how much the Lord you felt the magnitude of the blessing told me they felt the same way. He is loves you and trusts you. And, even which came to you. Since then, you gone now. All my grandparents and more, I wish to tell you how much He have felt the reality of the promises their ancestors have died. Many of depends on you. made to you and the promises you your ancestors died never having the You felt His love at least to some made. You have felt the cleansing that chance to accept the gospel and to degree when you were baptized. came from your baptism, because of receive the blessings and promises you Years ago I took a young man, 20 the Atonement of Jesus Christ. And have received. The Lord is fair and He years of age, into the waters of bap- you have felt the change in your heart is loving. And so He prepared for you tism. My companion and I had taught as the Holy Ghost has become your and me a way for us to have the desire him the gospel. He was the first in his companion. Your desires have begun of our hearts to offer to our ancestors family to hear the message of the to change. all the blessings He has offered us.

MAY 2005 77 The plan to make that possible has Father Adam, Mother Eve, Noah, been in place from the beginning. The Abraham, Ezekiel, Elijah, prophets we Lord gave promises to His children know from the Book of Mormon, and long ago. The very last book of the Old some from the last days, including Testament is the book of the prophet Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, John Malachi. And the last words are a sweet Taylor, and Wilford Woodruff. Think of promise and a stern warning: the power of those missionaries to “Behold, I will send you Elijah the teach the gospel and to touch the prophet before the coming of the hearts of your ancestors. It is not sur- great and dreadful day of the Lord: prising that Wilford Woodruff said “And he shall turn the heart of the while he lived that he believed few, fathers to the children, and the heart if any, of the ancestors of the Latter- of the children to their fathers, lest day Saints in the spirit world would I come and smite the earth with choose to reject the message of salva- a curse.”1 tion when they heard it.4 Some of those words are crucial to Many of your deceased ancestors understand. The great and dreadful will have received a testimony that day of the Lord is the end of the the message of the missionaries is world. Jehovah, the Messiah, will true. When you received that testi- come in glory. The wicked will all be dispensation are committed into your mony you could ask the missionaries destroyed. We live in the last days. hands; and by this ye may know that for baptism. But those who are in the Time could be running out for us to the great and dreadful day of the Lord spirit world cannot. The ordinances do what we have promised to do. is near, even at the doors.”2 you so cherish are offered only in this It is important to know why the As you came into the Church, you world. Someone in this world must Lord promised to send Elijah. Elijah have felt your heart being turned go to a holy temple and accept the was a great prophet with great power toward family, both those who are liv- covenants on behalf of the person in given him by God. He held the great- ing and those who are in the spirit the spirit world. That is why we are est power God gives to His children: world. The Lord provided another under obligation to find the names of he held the sealing power, the power vision to help you know what to do our ancestors and ensure that they to bind on earth and have it bound in with those feelings. are offered by us what they cannot heaven. God gave it to the Apostle After Joseph Smith, the Lord called receive there without our help. Peter. And the Lord kept His promise other prophets to lead His Church. For me, knowing that turns my to send Elijah. Elijah came to the One was Joseph F. Smith. He saw in heart not only to my ancestors who Prophet Joseph Smith on April 3, vision what happened in the spirit wait but to the missionaries who teach 1836, just after the dedication of the world when the Savior appeared there them. I will see those missionaries in Kirtland Temple, the first temple built between the time of His death and His the spirit world, and so will you. Think after the Restoration of the gospel. Resurrection.3 President Smith saw of a faithful missionary standing there Joseph described the sacred moment: the joy of the spirits when they with those he has loved and taught “Another great and glorious vision learned that the Savior had broken the who are your ancestors. Picture as I do burst upon us; for Elijah the prophet, bands of death and because of His the smile on the face of that mission- who was taken to heaven without tast- Atonement they could be resurrected. ary as you walk up to him and your ing death, stood before us, and said: And he saw the Savior organize His ancestors whom he converted but “Behold, the time has fully come, servants among the spirits to preach could not baptize or have sealed to which was spoken of by the mouth of His gospel to every spirit and offer the family until you came to the rescue. I Malachi—testifying that he [Elijah] chance to choose the covenants and do not know what the protocol will be should be sent, before the great and the blessings which are offered to you in such a place, but I imagine arms dreadful day of the Lord come— and which you want for your ances- thrown around your neck and tears of “To turn the hearts of the fathers tors. All are to have that chance. gratitude. to the children, and the children to President Smith also saw the lead- If you can imagine the smile of the the fathers, lest the whole earth be ers the Savior called to take the gospel missionary and your ancestor, think of smitten with a curse— to Heavenly Father’s children in the the Savior when you meet Him. You “Therefore, the keys of this spirit world. He named some of them: will have that interview. He paid the

78 price of the sins of you and all of to write down the names of parents Your opportunities and the obliga- Heavenly Father’s spirit children. He is and their parents with the dates of tions they create are remarkable in Jehovah. He sent Elijah. He conferred birth or death or marriage. When you the whole history of the world. There the powers of the priesthood to seal can, you will want to record the are more temples across the earth and to bless out of perfect love. And places. Some of that you will know than there have ever been. More peo- He has trusted you by letting you hear from memory. But you can also ask ple in all the world have felt the Spirit the gospel in your lifetime, giving you relatives. They may even have some of Elijah move them to record the the chance to accept the obligation to certificates of births, marriages, or identities and facts of their ancestors’ offer it to those of your ancestors who deaths. Make copies and organize lives. There are more resources to did not have your priceless opportu- them. If you learn stories about their search out your ancestors than there nity. Think of the gratitude He has for lives, write them down and keep have ever been in the history of the those who pay the price in work and them. You are not just gathering world. The Lord has poured out faith to find the names of their ances- names. Those you never met in life knowledge about how to make that tors and who love them and Him will become friends you love. Your information available worldwide enough to offer them eternal life in heart will be bound to theirs forever. through technology that a few years families, the greatest of all the gifts of You can start searching in the first ago would have seemed a miracle. God. He offered them an infinite sacri- few generations going back in time. With those opportunities there fice. He will love and appreciate those From that you will identify many of comes greater obligation to keep our who paid whatever price they could to your ancestors who need your help. trust with the Lord. Where much is allow their ancestors to choose His Someone in your own ward or branch given, much is required.5 After you offer of eternal life. of the Church has been called to help find the first few generations, the road Because your heart has already you prepare those names for the tem- will become more difficult. The price been turned, the price may not seem ple. There they can be offered the will become greater. As you go back in high. You begin by doing simple covenants which will free them from time, the records become less com- things. Write down what you already their spirit prisons and bind them in plete. As others of your family search know about your family. You will need families—your family—forever. out ancestors, you will discover that

MAY 2005 79 the ancestor you find has already been offered the full blessings of the temple. Then you will have a difficult and The Great Things important choice to make. You will be tempted to stop and leave the hard work of finding to others who are more expert or to another time in Which God your life. But you will also feel a tug on your heart to go on in the work, hard as it will be. As you decide, remember that the Has Revealed names which will be so difficult to PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY find are of real people to whom you owe your existence in this world and whom you will meet again in the spirit On the solid foundation of the Prophet Joseph’s world. When you were baptized, your divine calling and the revelations of God, which ancestors looked down on you with came through him, we go forward. hope. Perhaps after centuries, they rejoiced to see one of their descendants make a covenant to find them and to offer them freedom. In your reunion, you will see in their eyes pinnacle of achievement, to offer my either gratitude or terrible disappoint- testimony of his divine calling. ment. Their hearts are bound to you. I hold in my hand a precious little Their hope is in your hands. You will book. It was published in Liverpool, have more than your own strength as England, by Orson Pratt in 1853, 152 you choose to labor on to find them. years ago. It is Lucy Mack Smith’s nar- A few nights ago I had a dream. I rative of her son’s life. saw a piece of white paper with a It recounts in some detail Joseph’s name on it I did not know and a date various visits with the angel Moroni I could only partially read. I got up and the coming forth of the Book of and went to the records of my family. Mormon. The last name on the slip of paper is The book tells that upon hearing of from a line which came into my Joseph’s encounter with the angel, his mother’s ancestry 300 years ago in a brother Alvin suggested that the family place called Eaton Bray. Someone is get together and listen to him as he anxious for a long wait to end. I have detailed “the great things which God not yet found that person. But I have has revealed to you” (Biographical found again the assurance that a lov- y brothers and sisters, as we Sketches of Joseph Smith the Prophet ing God sends help in answer to have been reminded, we and His Progenitors of Many prayer in this sacred work of redeem- Mwill commemorate next Generations [1853], 84). ing our families, which is His work December the 200th anniversary of I take that statement as the subject and His glory and to which we have the birth of the Prophet Joseph of my talk—the great things which pledged our hearts. I so testify, in the Smith. In the meantime, many things God has revealed through Joseph the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ will occur in celebration of this signifi- Prophet. Permit me to name a few of cant occasion. many doctrines and practices which NOTES Books will be published, symposia distinguish us from all other churches, 1. Malachi 4:5–6. 2. D&C 110:13–16. participated in by various scholars, and all of which have come of revela- 3. See D&C 138. pageants, a new motion picture, and a tion to the youthful Prophet. They are 4. See “Discourse by President Wilford great many other things. familiar to you, but they are worth Woodruff,” Millennial Star, May 21, 1894, 339–40. In anticipation of this, I have felt, repeating and reflecting on. 5. See Luke 12:48. as 15th in succession from his great The first of these, of course, is the

80 manifestation of God Himself and His Beloved Son, the risen Lord Jesus Christ. This grand theophany is, in my judgment, the greatest such event since the birth, life, death, and Resurrection of our Lord in the meridian of time. We have no record of any other event to equal it. For centuries men gathered and argued concerning the nature of Deity. Constantine assembled scholars of various factions at Nicaea in the year 325. After two months of bitter debate, they compromised on a definition which for generations has been the doctrinal statement among Christians concerning the Godhead. I invite you to read that definition and compare it with the statement of the boy Joseph. He simply says that God stood before him and spoke to him. Joseph could see Him and could hear Him. He was in form like a man, a being of substance. Beside Him was the resurrected Lord, a separate being, whom He introduced as His Beloved Son and with whom Joseph also spoke. I submit that in the short time of that remarkable vision Joseph learned more concerning Deity than all of the scholars and clerics of the past. In this divine revelation there was reaffirmed beyond doubt the reality of the literal Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. This knowledge of Deity, hidden from the world for centuries, was the first and great thing which God renowned scholar. It is apparent does not stand alone. There is revealed to His chosen servant. from information which he gives that another witness of the significant and And upon the reality and truth of the various books of the Bible were important truths found therein. this vision rests the validity of The brought together in what appears to Scripture declares that “in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day have been an unsystematic fashion. mouth of two or three witnesses Saints. In some cases, the writings were not shall every word be established” I speak next of another very impor- produced until long after the events (2 Corinthians 13:1). tant thing which God revealed. they describe. One is led to ask, The Book of Mormon has come The Christian world accepts the “Is the Bible true? Is it really the forth by the gift and power of God. It Bible as the word of God. Most have word of God?” speaks as a voice from the dust in tes- no idea of how it came to us. We reply that it is, insofar as it is timony of the Son of God. It speaks I have just completed read- translated correctly. The hand of the of His birth, of His ministry, of His ing a newly published book by a Lord was in its making. But it now Crucifixion and Resurrection, and of

MAY 2005 81 His appearance to the righteous in Through the revelations of God to the land Bountiful on the American His Prophet came the doctrine and continent. authority under which families are It is a tangible thing that can be sealed together not only for this life handled, that can be read, that can be but for all eternity. tested. It carries within its covers a I think that if we had the capacity promise of its divine origin. Millions to teach effectively this one doctrine, now have put it to the test and found it would capture the interest of mil- it to be a true and sacred record. lions of husbands and wives who love It has been named by those not of one another and who love their chil- our faith as one of 20 books ever pub- dren, but whose marriage is in effect lished in America that have had the only “until death do you part.” greatest influence upon those who The innocence of little children is have read them. another revelation which God has As the Bible is the testament of the given through the instrumentality of Old World, the Book of Mormon is the Prophet Joseph. The general prac- the testament of the New. They go tice is the baptism of infants to take hand in hand in declaration of Jesus away the effects of what is described as the Son of the Father. as the sin of Adam and Eve. Under the In the past 10 years alone, 51 mil- In Korea, a young woman prepares doctrine of the Restoration, baptism is lion copies have been distributed. It to sing a hymn during a conference for the remission of one’s individual is now available in 106 languages. session. and personal sins. It becomes a This sacred book, which came covenant between God and man. It is forth as a revelation of the Almighty, Oliver Cowdery the Melchizedek performed at the age of accountabil- is indeed another testament of the Priesthood, which had been received ity, when people are old enough to divinity of our Lord. by these Apostles under the hands of recognize right from wrong. It is by I would think that the whole the Lord Himself when in life He said, immersion, in symbolism of the death Christian world would reach out and “And I will give unto thee the keys of and burial of Jesus Christ and His welcome it and embrace it as a vibrant the kingdom of heaven: and whatso- coming forth in the Resurrection. testimony. It represents another great ever thou shalt bind on earth shall be I go on to mention another and basic contribution which came as bound in heaven: and whatsoever revealed truth. a revelation to the Prophet. thou shalt loose on earth shall be We are told that God is no Another is the restored priesthood. loosed in heaven” (Matthew 16:19). respecter of persons, and yet, in no Priesthood is the authority to act in How beautiful is the unfolding of other church of which I am aware, is the name of God. That authority is the pattern of restoration which led provision made for those beyond the the keystone of any religion. I have to the organization of the Church in veil of death to receive every blessing read another book recently. It deals the year 1830, 175 years ago this which is afforded the living. The great with the Apostasy of the primitive week. The very name of the Church doctrine of salvation for the dead is Church. If the authority of that came of revelation. Whose Church unique to this Church. Church was lost, how was it to be was it? Was it Joseph Smith’s? Was it Men boast that they are “saved,” replaced? Oliver Cowdery’s? No, it was the and in the same breath admit that Priesthood authority came from Church of Jesus Christ restored to their forebears have not been and the only place it could come, and earth in these latter days. cannot be saved. that is from heaven. It was bestowed Another great and singular revela- Jesus’s Atonement in behalf of all under the hands of those who held it tion given to the Prophet was the plan represents a great vicarious sacrifice. when the Savior walked the earth. for the eternal life of the family. He set the pattern under which He First, there was John the Baptist, The family is a creation of the became a proxy for all mankind. This who conferred the Aaronic, or lesser Almighty. It represents the most pattern under which one man can act priesthood. This was followed by a sacred of all relationships. It in behalf of another is carried forward visitation of Peter, James, and John, represents the most serious of all in the ordinances of the house of the Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ, undertakings. It is the fundamental Lord. Here we serve in behalf of those who conferred upon Joseph and organization of society. who have died without a knowledge

82 of the gospel. Theirs is the option to accept or reject the ordinance which is performed. They are placed on an equal footing with those who walk the earth. The dead are given the same opportunity as the living. Again, what a glorious and wonderful provision the Almighty has made through His revelation to His Prophet. The eternal nature of man has been revealed. We are sons and daughters of God. God is the Father of our spirits. We lived before we came here. We had personality. We were born into this life under a divine plan. We are here to test our worthiness, acting in the agency which God has given to us. When we die we shall go on living. Our eternal life is com- prised of three phases: one, our pre- mortal existence; two, our mortal existence; and three, our postmortal His Church as it moves on its path substance of the personal testimony existence. In death we die to this of destiny. of millions of Latter-day Saints across world and step through the veil into On the solid foundation of the the earth. You and I are honored to the sphere we are worthy to enter. Prophet Joseph’s divine calling and be among these. This, again, is a unique, singular, and the revelations of God, which came As a boy I loved to hear a man precious doctrine of this Church through him, we go forward. Much who, with a rich baritone voice, sang which has come through revelation. has been accomplished in bringing us the words of John Taylor: I offer this brief summary of the to this present day. But there is much tremendous outpouring of knowl- more to be done in the process of The Seer, the Seer, Joseph, the Seer! . . . edge and authority from God upon taking this restored gospel to “every I love to dwell on his memory dear; the head of His Prophet. Were there nation, and kindred, and tongue, and The chosen of God and the friend time I could speak of others. There is people” (Revelation 14:6). of man, one more that I must mention. This I rejoice in the opportunity of asso- He brought the priesthood back is the principle of modern revelation. ciation with you as we go forward in again; The article of faith which the Prophet faith. The burden is at times heavy, as He gazed on the past and the future, wrote declares, you well know. But let us not com- too, . . . “We believe all that God has plain. Let us walk in faith, each doing And opened the heavenly world to revealed, all that He does now reveal, our part. view. and we believe that He will yet reveal In this year of celebration, through (“The Seer, Joseph, the Seer,” Hymns many great and important things our own performance, let us honor [1948], no. 296) pertaining to the Kingdom of God” the Prophet, through whom God has (Articles of Faith 1:9). revealed so much. He was truly a seer. He was a reve- A growing church, a church that is The sun rose on Joseph’s life on a lator. He was a prophet of the living spreading across the earth in these cold day in Vermont in 1805. It set in God who has spoken to his own and complex times, needs constant revela- Illinois on a sultry afternoon in 1844. all future generations. tion from the throne of heaven to During the brief 38 and one-half years To this I add my solemn witness of guide it and move it forward. of his life, there came through him an the divinity of his calling, of the virtue With prayer and anxious seeking of incomparable outpouring of knowl- of his life, and of the sealing of his tes- the will of the Lord, we testify that edge, gifts, and doctrine. Looked at timony with his death, in the sacred direction is received, that revelation objectively, there is nothing to com- name of our Redeemer, even the Lord comes, and that the Lord blesses pare with it. Subjectively, it is the Jesus Christ, amen. ■

MAY 2005 83 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION April 3, 2005

declining population and the influx of an increasing number of immigrants What Seek Ye? will eventually make you a minority in your own land.” ELDER L. TOM PERRY With great national pride, he Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles replied, “This will never happen.” I countered, “How can you support such a position with immigration Honest seekers of truth are finding answers exceeding your country’s birthrate?” to their questions—they are finding the Lord He kept insisting this would never through His restored Church. happen in his country—“why, they would close the borders of our land before they would allow it to occur.” I pressed on, “How can you pre- meeting. We were taking advantage of vent it with your current trends?” the time together by discussing our His next statement shocked me: assignment. A man seated across the “I’m 82 years old. I will be long gone aisle became curious about our con- before we have to face that problem.” versation. He finally asked, “Are you A major problem we face in preach- Protestant or Catholic?” We replied, ing the gospel in this area of the world “Neither. We are members of The is the general apathy toward religion, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day toward things spiritual. Too many are Saints.” He acknowledged that he had very comfortable with their present heard of the Church, but then went lifestyle and feel no need to do more on to say: “You’ll never get very far in than “eat, drink, and be merry” (Luke this country. The government only 12:19). They are not interested in any- recognizes the Catholic and Protestant thing but themselves—here and now. churches. They are the only ones who Developed nations of the world are receive government financial support. becoming so secular in their beliefs A church cannot exist without govern- and actions that they reason that a ment financial support.” human being has total autonomy. An t is always difficult to follow this We tried to explain that our individual does not have to give an magnificent choir. Thank you, choir, Church manages very well without account to anyone or anything except Iagain for your beautiful music. government help—that we use the to himself and, to a limited extent, to “Again the next day after John Lord’s system of tithing. He insisted the society in which he lives. stood, and two of his disciples; our Church would not get very far in Societies in which this secular “And looking upon Jesus as he his country and suggested that per- lifestyle takes root have a deep spiritual walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb haps we should place our efforts in and moral price to pay. The pursuit of of God! some other part of the world. Of so-called individual freedoms, without “And the two disciples heard him course, we testified that the Lord’s regard to laws the Lord has established speak, and they followed Jesus. system does work and told him about to govern His children on earth, will “Then Jesus turned, and saw them all the chapels and temples we are result in the curse of extreme worldli- following, and saith unto them, What constructing throughout the world ness and selfishness, the decline of seek ye?” (John 1:35–38). without having to resort to borrowed public and private morality, and the We find a world today looking for funds to build them. He seemed very defiance of authority. answers to the question, What seek surprised but still unconvinced. Such secular societies are described ye? in so many different ways. Too Seeing that we could not persuade in Doctrine and Covenants 1:16: “They many are sowing seeds of a fruit that him that a church could exist without seek not the Lord to establish his righ- will not nourish an eternal soul. government support, we tried to teousness, but every man walketh in Let me illustrate with an experience change the subject. I asked, “What his own way, and after the image of his the Europe Central Area Presidency will happen in your country with the own god, whose image is in the like- had while traveling by train to a changes that are occurring? The ness of the world.”

84 For this reason, the Lord’s Church was instructed to follow the prophet and seek something different from what the world is seeking. Continuing on with verses 17–18 from section 1: “Wherefore, I the Lord, knowing the calamity which should come upon the inhabitants of the earth, called upon my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and spake unto him from heaven, and gave him commandments; “And also gave commandments to others, that they should proclaim these things unto the world; and all this that it might be fulfilled, which was written by the prophets.” It was through the Prophet Joseph Smith that the Church of Jesus Christ restorer of all things important to feel prepared to reevaluate his beliefs. was restored to the earth—“line upon building the kingdom of God and The sister missionaries were line, precept upon precept” (D&C preparing for the Second Coming of inspired to focus their teachings on 98:12). With divine assistance he our Lord Jesus Christ. When we seek Jesus Christ. In their words: translated and published the Book of our Savior, it is important that we “We taught about Joseph Smith, of Mormon. The Aaronic and seek Him through His Church. It is his faith on Christ, what we learn Melchizedek Priesthoods were con- through His restored Church that we about Christ from the First Vision, and ferred upon him and Oliver Cowdery, receive all the saving ordinances nec- the Prophet’s testimony of our Savior. and sacred ordinances were reinsti- essary to return to Him. Everything we ever read together or tuted for the saving of mankind. I want all the members of the challenged them to read as a family We boldly declare that The Church Church to know that I have learned out of the Book of Mormon was of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints pro- from my current assignment that shar- teaching them more about our vides answers to the question, What ing the gospel of Jesus Christ involves Redeemer. That is when we started seek ye? Our Church is the means by challenges I had never before imag- seeing the progress. They displayed a which men and women find our Savior ined. Yet every day I see new signs of framed picture of Christ proudly in and His gospel. You who are gathered hope, due mostly to the Lord’s bless- their family room—it was one we had here in this vast congregation, and the ings, but also to the efforts of the lead- given them as a gift.” even greater numbers of Saints viewing ers, members, and missionaries in that The father’s change of heart this conference throughout the world, area of the world. Honest seekers of occurred when his wife announced are richly blessed, for you have sought truth are finding answers to their that she wanted to be baptized and his and found the restored Church. questions—they are finding the Lord sons decided to pray to know whether The Church came into being as the through His restored Church. Of the they should also be baptized. From result of a restoration and not a refor- many examples I could give, let me that moment on, he read regularly in mation. My recent experiences in cen- give you three: a father, a young single the Book of Mormon and prayed tral Europe certainly have deepened adult, and a single sister who have about baptism. His sincere desire to my respect for the role of those early found a new faith and a new hope in know whether the Church was true Christian leaders who instituted a ref- their lives. changed him, and he became a spiri- ormation. It began with their efforts A family of four was initially con- tual leader in his home. Just before he to correct some of the errors in doc- tacted by sister missionaries, and from and his family were baptized, the trine which had come into being dur- the very beginning the mother and father asked for a tithing slip and an ing the long period of apostasy from her children often read in the Book of envelope. He did not want to delay the Church that had been established Mormon, prayed daily, and wanted to keeping the commandments for even by our Savior during His earthly min- attend church. The father, however, one second. istry. Joseph Smith was a prophet of resisted—unlike his wife, he was not In another case, a young brother God, the Lord’s mouthpiece, and the of a Christian faith, and he did not yet was reactivated as the result of the

MAY 2005 85 establishment of the outreach initia- woman from Hamburg, Germany, somehow the elders were sent to her tive to bring into activity young single was struggling to find spiritual as an answer to her prayers. The good adults ages 18 to 30. On the first night meaning to her life. She began to members of the Church joined with of activities in one of our Church pray and ask God what she should the missionaries in teaching her and buildings, this brother was the only do. One morning, after three days helping her feel a special part of their nonmissionary attending, but within a of some fasting and much prayer, ward. She accepted the message of few weeks, he had brought about 30 she walked from her home to the the restored gospel of Jesus Christ people to family home evening and bus stop. As she arrived, she real- and was baptized. Now she is working other activities. ized she had left some keys at home in the ward Young Women program. This brother is a Web site that she needed that day. She The Lord, during His earthly min- designer—he and a partner started returned home, picked up the keys, istry, recognized the need to have a their own Web design business. He and walked again to the bus stop. structure in place to build faith in the currently lives with two nonmembers, She was quite distraught as she real- hearts of the members of His Church both of whom work at his Web design ized she had missed the bus she and to keep them growing in His company. He is very bold about shar- would have normally taken. gospel. This family, this brother, and ing his testimony. One of his cowork- Meanwhile, two missionaries were this sister all found the Savior through ers previously had studied Christian traveling on a bus near the city of finding and being strengthened by theology, and this brother referred Hamburg. As they were traveling, they His Church. him to the missionaries working in the suddenly had an impression that they After the death of the Apostles, young single adult program. Now his should talk to the first person they without central leadership to guide coworker is a regular attendee of the met after exiting the bus. The two el- and direct it, the Church drifted into activities, and this reactivated brother ders got out of the bus and instantly apostasy. This particular lesson of assists the missionaries as they teach saw this young woman. They spoke history is clear: It is necessary to him, by adding his testimony of the to her briefly about the Church and have a centralized Church govern- truthfulness of the gospel to theirs. set up an appointment to teach her. ment, under the direction of the In still another case, a young She had an immediate feeling that Savior, that provides the necessary

86 doctrines and ordinances for salvation and exaltation. The Bible gives abundant evidence Pornography that the Lord during His earthly ministry established His Church with the ELDER DALLIN H. OAKS proper authority and organization. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles For example, Paul declared: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangel- Let us all improve our personal behavior and redouble ists; and some, pastors and teachers; our efforts to protect our loved ones and our environment “For the perfecting of the saints, from the onslaught of pornography. for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the talk to this subject, warning in the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto plainest terms that “this is a very seri- the measure of the stature of the ful- ous problem even among us” (“A ness of Christ: Tragic Evil among Us,” Liahona and “That we henceforth be no more Ensign, Nov. 2004, 61). Most of the children, tossed to and fro, and car- bishops we meet in stake conferences ried about with every wind of doc- now report major concerns with this trine, by the sleight of men, and problem. cunning craftiness, whereby they lie My fellow holders of the in wait to deceive; Melchizedek Priesthood, and also “But speaking the truth in love, our young men, I wish to speak to may grow up into him in all things, you today about pornography. I which is the head, even Christ” know that many of you are exposed (Ephesians 4:11–15). to this and that many of you are We state in our sixth article of faith, being stained by it. “We believe in the same organization In concentrating my talk on this that existed in the Primitive Church, subject I feel like the prophet Jacob, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, ast summer Sister Oaks and I who told the men of his day that it teachers, evangelists, and so forth.” returned from two years in grieved him to speak so boldly in So we declare to the world that the L the Philippines. We loved our front of their sensitive wives and chil- priesthood has been restored, God’s service there, and we loved returning dren. But notwithstanding the diffi- government is on the earth, His pat- home. When we have been away, we culty of the task, he said he had to tern is established that will lead us see our surroundings in a new light, speak to the men about this subject back to His presence. We believe we with increased appreciation and because God had commanded him have the best answer to the question, sometimes with new concerns. (see Jacob 2:7–11). I do so for the What seek ye? As the Savior taught, We were concerned to see the same reason. “But seek ye first the kingdom of inroads pornography had made in the In the second chapter of the book God, and his righteousness; and all United States while we were away. For that bears his name, Jacob condemns these things shall be added unto you” many years our Church leaders have men for their “whoredoms” (vv. 23, (Matthew 6:33). warned against the dangers of images 28). He told them they had “broken Just as a building is constructed and words intended to arouse sexual the hearts of [their] tender wives, and one brick at a time, the Savior’s true desires. Now the corrupting influence lost the confidence of [their] chil- Church is built one conversion, one of pornography, produced and dis- dren, because of [their] bad examples testimony, one baptism at a time. May seminated for commercial gain, is before them” (v. 35). we all seek, find, and build His Church sweeping over our society like an ava- What were these grossly wicked wherever we may be is my humble lanche of evil. “whoredoms”? No doubt some men prayer, in the name of Him whom we At our last conference, President were already guilty of evil acts. But seek, even Jesus Christ, amen. ■ Gordon B. Hinckley devoted an entire the main focus of Jacob’s great

MAY 2005 87 clean also” (Matthew 23:25–26; see also Alma 60:23). The Savior continues His denuncia- tion of those who treat what is visible but neglect to cleanse the inner man: “Ye are like unto whited sepul- chres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. “Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity” (Matthew 23:27–28). The immediate spiritual consequences of such hypocrisy are devas- tating. Those who seek out and use sermon was not with evil acts com- flashing its perverted images across pornography forfeit the power of pleted, but with evil acts contemplated. your mind and drawing you away from their priesthood. The Lord declares: Jacob began his sermon by telling the wholesome things in life.”1 “When we undertake to cover our the men that “as yet, [they had] been Here, brethren, I must tell you sins, . . . behold, the heavens with- obedient unto the word of the Lord” that our bishops and our profes- draw themselves; the Spirit of the (Jacob 2:4). However, he then told sional counselors are seeing an Lord is grieved; and when it is with- them he knew their thoughts, that increasing number of men involved drawn, Amen to the priesthood or the they were “beginning to labor in sin, with pornography, and many of those authority of that man” (D&C 121:37). which sin appeareth very abominable are active members. Some involved in Patrons of pornography also lose . . . unto God” (v. 5). “I must testify pornography apparently minimize its the companionship of the Spirit. unto you concerning the wickedness seriousness and continue to exercise Pornography produces fantasies that of your hearts” (v. 6), he added. Jacob the priesthood of God because they destroy spirituality. “To be carnally was speaking as Jesus spoke when think no one will know of their minded is death”—spiritual death He said, “Whosoever looketh on a involvement. But the user knows, (Romans 8:6; see also 2 Nephi 9:39). woman to lust after her hath com- brethren, and so does the Lord. The scriptures repeatedly teach mitted adultery with her already in Some have suggested that pornog- that the Spirit of the Lord will not his heart” (Matthew 5:28; see also raphy should be a separate question dwell in an unclean tabernacle. When 3 Nephi 12:28; D&C 59:6; 63:16). in the temple recommend interview. we worthily partake of the sacrament, More than 30 years ago, I urged It is already. At least five different we are promised that we will “always BYU students to avoid the “promo- questions should elicit a confession have his Spirit to be with [us].” To tional literature of illicit sexual rela- and discussion on this subject if the qualify for that promise we covenant tions” in what they read and viewed. person being interviewed has the that we will “always remember him” I gave this analogy: spiritual sensitivity and honesty we (D&C 20:77). Those who seek out “Pornographic or erotic stories and expect of those who worship in the and use pornography for sexual pictures are worse than filthy or pol- house of the Lord. stimulation obviously violate that luted food. The body has defenses to One of the Savior’s most memo- covenant. They also violate a sacred rid itself of unwholesome food. With a rable teachings applies to men who covenant to refrain from unholy and few fatal exceptions, bad food will only are secretly viewing pornography: impure practices. They cannot have make you sick but do no permanent “Woe unto you, scribes and the Spirit of the Lord to be with them. harm. In contrast, a person who feasts Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make All such need to heed the Apostle upon filthy stories or pornographic or clean the outside of the cup and of Peter’s plea: “Repent therefore of this erotic pictures and literature records the platter, but within they are full of thy wickedness, and pray God, if per- them in this marvelous retrieval sys- extortion and excess. haps the thought of thine heart may tem we call a brain. The brain won’t “Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first be forgiven thee” (Acts 8:22). vomit back filth. Once recorded, it that which is within the cup and plat- Brethren, you have noticed that will always remain subject to recall, ter, that the outside of them may be I am not discussing the effects of

88 pornography on mental health or criminal behavior. I am discussing its effects on spirituality—on our ability to have the companionship of the Spirit of the Lord and our capacity to exercise the power of the priesthood. Pornography also inflicts mortal wounds on our most precious personal relationships. In his talk to men of the priesthood last October, President Hinckley quoted the letter of a woman who asked him to warn Church members that pornography “has the effect of damaging hearts and souls to their very depths, stran- gling the life out of relationships” (Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2004, 60). At a recent stake conference a woman handed me a similar letter. Her husband had also served in important Church callings for many years while addicted to pornography. She told of great difficulty in getting priesthood leaders to take this problem of pornography seriously: “I got all kinds of responses—like I was over- reacting or it was my fault. The bishop we have now has been great. And now after 15 years my husband is trying to deal with his addiction, but now it is 15 years harder to quit for him and the loss has been incalculable.” Pornography impairs one’s ability to enjoy a normal emotional, roman- tic, and spiritual relationship with a person of the opposite sex. It erodes the moral barriers that stand against the hardest drugs was nothing com- power and direction of the evil one. inappropriate, abnormal, or illegal pared to [trying to quit pornogra- When they use Internet or other behavior. As conscience is desensi- phy]” (letter of Mar. 20, 2005). pornography for what this bishop tized, patrons of pornography are led Some seek to justify their indul- described as “arousal on demand” to act out what they have witnessed, gence by arguing that they are only (letter of Mar. 13, 2005), they are regardless of its effects on their life viewing “soft,” not “hard,” porn. A deeply soiled by sin. and the lives of others. wise bishop called this refusing to see King Benjamin’s great sermon Pornography is also addictive. It evil as evil. He quoted men seeking to describes the terrible consequences. impairs decision-making capacities justify their viewing choices by com- When we withdraw from the Spirit of and it “hooks” its users, drawing them parisons such as “not as bad as” or the Lord, we become an enemy to back obsessively for more and more. “only one bad scene.” But the test of righteousness, we have a lively sense A man who had been addicted to what is evil is not its degree but its of our guilt, and we “shrink from the pornography and to hard drugs wrote effect. When persons entertain evil presence of the Lord” (see Mosiah me this comparison: “In my eyes thoughts long enough for the Spirit to 2:36–38). “Mercy hath no claim on cocaine doesn’t hold a candle to this. withdraw, they lose their spiritual pro- that man,” he concluded; “there- I have done both. . . . Quitting even tection and they are subject to the fore his final doom is to endure a

MAY 2005 89 never-ending torment” (v. 39). the temple; it happens when he has Consider the tragic example of become casual in his temple worship” King David. Though a spiritual giant (letter of Mar. 13, 2005). in Israel, he allowed himself to look We must also act to protect those upon something he should not have we love. Parents install alarms to warn viewed (see 2 Samuel 11). Tempted if their household is threatened by by what he saw, he violated two of the smoke or carbon monoxide. We Ten Commandments, beginning with should also install protections against “Thou shalt not commit adultery” spiritual threats, protections like fil- (Exodus 20:14). In this way a prophet- ters on Internet connections and king fell from his exaltation (see D&C locating access so others can see what 132:39). is being viewed. And we should build But the good news is that no one at least a quarter century our leaders the spiritual strength of our families needs to follow the evil, downward have pleaded with men, and also by loving relationships, family prayer, descent to torment. Everyone caught with women and children, to avoid and scripture study. on that terrible escalator has the key this evil.2 Our current Church maga- Finally, do not patronize pornog- to reverse his course. He can escape. zines are full of warnings, informa- raphy. Do not use your purchasing Through repentance he can be clean. tion, and helps on this subject—with power to support moral degradation. Alma the Younger described it: more than a score of articles pub- And young women, please under- “Yea, I did remember all my sins lished or to be published this year stand that if you dress immodestly, and iniquities, for which I was tor- and last year alone.3 you are magnifying this problem by mented with the pains of hell. . . . Second, seek the help of the Lord becoming pornography to some of “. . . The very thought of coming and His servants. Hear and heed the men who see you. into the presence of my God did rack President Hinckley’s words: Please heed these warnings. Let us my soul with inexpressible horror. . . . “Plead with the Lord out of the all improve our personal behavior and “And it came to pass that as I was depths of your soul that He will redouble our efforts to protect our thus racked with torment, while I was remove from you the addiction which loved ones and our environment from harrowed up by the memory of my enslaves you. And may you have the the onslaught of pornography that many sins, behold, I remembered also courage to seek the loving guidance threatens our spirituality, our mar- to have heard my father prophesy of your bishop and, if necessary, the riages, and our children. unto the people concerning the com- counsel of caring professionals” I testify that this is what we should ing of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, (Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2004, 62). do to enjoy the blessings of Him to atone for the sins of the world. Third, do all that you can to avoid whom we worship. I testify of Jesus “Now, as my mind caught hold pornography. If you ever find yourself Christ, the Light and Life of the World, upon this thought, I cried within my in its presence—which can happen to whose Church this is, in the name of heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have anyone in the world in which we Jesus Christ, amen. ■

mercy on me, who am in the gall of live—follow the example of Joseph of NOTES bitterness, and am encircled about by Egypt. When temptation caught him 1. Challenges for the Year Ahead (pamphlet, the everlasting chains of death. in her grip, he left temptation and 1974), 4–5; reprinted in “Things They’re Saying,” New Era, Feb. 1974, 18. “And now, behold, when I thought “got him out” (Genesis 39:12). 2. See, for example, Gordon B. Hinckley, this, I could remember my pains no Don’t accommodate any degree of “A Tragic Evil among Us,” Liahona and more; yea, I was harrowed up by the temptation. Prevent sin and avoid Ensign, Nov. 2004, 59–62; David E. Sorensen, “You Can’t Pet a Rattlesnake,” memory of my sins no more. having to deal with its inevitable Liahona, July 2001, 48–50; Ensign, May “And oh, what joy, and what mar- destruction. So, turn it off! Look away! 2001, 41–43; Thomas S. Monson, “Pornography—the Deadly Carrier,” velous light I did behold; yea, my soul Avoid it at all costs. Direct your Ensign, Nov. 1979, 66–67; David B. Haight, was filled with joy as exceeding as was thoughts in wholesome paths. “Personal Morality,” Ensign, Nov. 1984, my pain!” (Alma 36:13–14, 17–20). Remember your covenants and be 70–73. 3. See, for example, Rory C. Reid, “The Road My brethren who are caught in this faithful in temple attendance. The Back: Abandoning Pornography,” Liahona, addiction or troubled by this tempta- wise bishop I quoted earlier reported Feb. 2005, 28–33; Ensign, Feb. 2005, tion, there is a way. that “an endowed priesthood bearer’s 46–51; Arianne B. Cope, “Internet Café,” New Era, Mar. 2005, 34–37; Nycole S. First, acknowledge the evil. Don’t fall into pornography never occurs Larsen, “The Decision,” Friend, Mar. 2004, defend it or try to justify yourself. For during periods of regular worship in 40–41.

90 unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on Strengthen him.”3 With this parable, Jesus taught that each of us should exhibit an active love and benevolence towards every one of His Father’s children. Thy Brethren King Benjamin taught the Saints of ELDER ROBERT J. WHETTEN his day: “For the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to Of the Seventy day, . . . I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, . . . You must do what our Savior and His prophets . . . such as feeding the hungry, . . . visit- have always taught: serve, strengthen the faith, ing the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally.”4 and nurture those who need your love and blessing. Do you administer spiritual or temporal relief to those who need it? Do you reach out and strengthen the faith of those coming into the fold, as asked love for God our Eternal Father and by the prophets of our day? love for our fellowmen. Conversion means consecrating In the closing hours of His earthly your life to caring for and serving oth- ministry, Jesus said to Peter, “But I ers who need your help and sharing have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail your gifts and blessings. The Lord not: and when thou art converted, didn’t say, “Tend my sheep when it is strengthen thy brethren.”2 convenient; watch my sheep when Peter had a testimony, borne of the you aren’t busy.” He said, “Feed my Spirit, of the divinity of Jesus Christ. sheep and my lambs; help them sur- Peter knew and his knowledge came vive this world; keep them close to by revelation. But his conversion, the you. Lead them to safety—the safety change in his whole way of life and of righteous choices that will prepare the nature of his very being, was more them for eternal life.”5 evident after the day of Pentecost, Every unselfish act of kindness and after receiving the heart-changing gift service increases your spirituality. God and witness of the Holy Ghost. would use you to bless others. Your Yes, brothers and sisters, like Peter continued spiritual growth and eternal esponding to the question, before, we have testimonies, but is progress are very much wrapped up in “Master, which is the great conversion a continuing process in your relationships—in how you treat R commandment in the law?” your life? Isn’t each of us a work in others. Do you indeed love others and Jesus answered: “Thou shalt love the progress in the hands of our Maker? become a blessing in their lives? Isn’t Lord thy God with all thy heart, and Is God blessing others through the measure of the level of your con- with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. you? Do you pray and ask whom the version how you treat others? The This is the first and great command- Lord would have you bless by lifting person who does only those things in ment. And the second is like unto it, another’s burden? Do you love the Church that concern himself alone Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy- others as much as you love yourself? will never reach the goal of perfection. self. On these two commandments When Jesus told the lawyer that in Service to others is what the gospel hang all the law and the prophets.”1 order to inherit eternal life he must and exalted life are all about. To ancient Israel and down love his neighbor as himself, the In your journey through life, you through the generations of time, lawyer said unto Jesus, “And who is my are to reach out and bless the lives of His prophets past and present have neighbour?” Jesus responded with His your fellow travelers, to give of your- always taught this all-encompassing parable of the good Samaritan and self to those who need you. “For whoso- eternal truth—that to inherit eternal then asked: “Which now of these ever will save his life,” the Master said, life we must have love in our souls: three, thinkest thou, was neighbour “shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose

MAY 2005 91 his life for my sake and the gospel’s, reclaiming an errant brother, you save and of the household of God.”14 the same shall save it.”6 both him and yourself. Your sins are It seems that where the Church has James directed his epistle “to the hidden or remitted because you min- experienced rapid growth, too many twelve tribes which are scattered istered for the salvation of another. are still made to feel that they are abroad.”7 His teachings may be Mine has been the great blessing of strangers and foreigners and have applied to us, the Lord’s people who living my life in Latin America and wit- been left by the wayside. If we are to in a latter day would accept the nessing firsthand the unfolding of the see the promises fulfilled, we must do restored gospel. He teaches principles prophecies and promises made by as Moroni described: “And after they that should guide your relationships His prophets and the Lord Himself. had been received unto baptism, . . . with other members of the Church. “I shall gather in, from their long they were numbered among the peo- He considers the commandment to dispersion, my people, O house of ple of the church of Christ; and their “love thy neighbour as thyself” to be Israel, and shall establish again among names were taken, that they might be the “royal law.”8 To James, a testimony them my Zion. . . . remembered and nourished . . . to alone is not enough. The gospel has “. . . I will establish my church keep them in the right way.”15 to become a living reality in your life. among them, and they shall come in Many active members believe that “And I will shew thee my faith by my unto the covenant and be numbered the less-active members and new con- works.”9 “But be ye doers of the word, among this the remnant of Jacob, verts that fall by the wayside behave and not hearers only.”10 James’s defini- unto whom I have given this land for differently because they don’t believe tion of the converted is: “Pure religion their inheritance.”13 the Church’s doctrine. Studies made and undefiled before God and the Literally hundreds of thousands do not support this assumption. They Father is this, To visit the fatherless have been gathered in from practi- show that almost all less-active mem- and widows in their affliction, and to cally every nation in Latin America. bers interviewed believe that God keep himself unspotted from the Prophecies assure us that this growth exists, that Jesus is the Christ, that world.”11 He ends his brief epistle with will continue. Growth is our greatest Joseph Smith was a prophet, and that these words: “Brethren, if any of you challenge but also the greatest oppor- the Church is true. do err from the truth, and one con- tunity for each of us. In numerous wards and branches, vert him; Let him know, that he which The Apostle Paul said to the new there are many good, upright, honest converteth the sinner from the error members in his day, “Now therefore men and women who just don’t know of his way shall save a soul . . . and ye are no more strangers and foreign- how to come back to church. There shall hide a multitude of sins.”12 By ers, but fellowcitizens with the saints, are good mothers and fathers among

92 them. They have just left, and no one has come to check up on them, leaving them with the idea that no one really cares. When men or women of faith visit these individuals and become their friends, strengthen them, pray with them, and teach them the gospel, they and their families will come back. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”16 Who are “the least of these my brethren”? Might the Lord be referring to the newest coming into the fold or to those who have wandered into the shadows of inactiv- ity and would return if extended the hand of true fellowship? The Prophet Joseph Smith wrote a out in love to bless the life of an- In this great battle for the souls of letter to the Saints in his day: “Dear other, you both will be blessed with men, the rules of engagement in mis- Brethren:—It is a duty which every His Spirit. The Lord teaches that sionary work are more clearly defined Saint ought to render to his brethren both will “understand one another, for each of us. Members are to accom- freely—to always love them, and ever and both [will be] edified and rejoice pany full-time missionary companion- succor them. To be justified before together.”24 ships as they teach the lessons and play God we must love one another: . . . It is my prayer that our Heavenly a vital role in the conversion process of we can love our neighbor as our- Father will bless each of us with that others. Missionaries are “to preach my selves, and be faithful in tribulation.”19 love for others “which he hath gospel by the Spirit”17 with words from Our own prophet, President bestowed upon all who are true fol- their own hearts, words of truth treas- Gordon B. Hinckley, has said: “I would lowers of his Son.”25 I bear witness ured up by much study and prayer. hope, I would pray, that each of us . . . that His Son, Jesus Christ, lives and Our missionaries’ roles in the continu- would resolve to seek those who need that His gospel is a gospel of love. In ing conversion process of others do help . . . and lift them in the spirit of the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ not end at baptism. They are to con- love into the embrace of the Church, NOTES tinue to teach new members and oth- where strong hands and loving hearts 1. Matthew 22:36–40. ers who need spiritual nourishment. will warm them, comfort them, sus- 2. Luke 22:32. 3. Luke 10:29, 36–37. Recent letters from the First tain them, and put them on the way of 4. Mosiah 4:26; emphasis added. Presidency remind priesthood leaders happy and productive lives.”20 5. See John 21:15–16. 6. Mark 8:35. of their responsibility to strengthen Love is not just a word or a declara- 7. James 1:1. and support new members. “Fellow- tion, but the first and great command- 8. James 2:8. ship should be extended by all in ment, a commandment that demands 9. James 2:18. 10. James 1:22. the ward. . . . Home teachers and action—“If ye love me, keep my com- 11. James 1:27. visiting teachers can play a valuable mandments”21 and “Lovest thou me? 12. James 5:19–20. role.” New members should be given . . . Feed my sheep.”22 13. 3 Nephi 21:1, 22. 14. Ephesians 2:19. “opportunities . . . to serve and con- You must do what our Savior and 15. Moroni 6:4. tribute to the strength of the ward.”18 His prophets, both past and present, 16. Matthew 25:40. Brothers and sisters, if the conver- have always taught: serve, strengthen 17. D&C 50:14. 18. First Presidency letter, Dec. 22, 2004; see sion and transformation process is to the faith, and nurture those who need also First Presidency letter, Feb. 11, 2005. continue in each of us, new members your love and blessing. You have the 19. History of the Church, 2:229. 20. “Reach with a Rescuing Hand,” Ensign, Nov. and old alike, we must love, serve, Lord’s promise: “And whoso receiveth 1996, 86. and give spiritual nourishment to oth- you, there I will be also, for I will go 21. John 14:15. ers. We must help others receive the before your face . . . and my Spirit 22. John 21:17. 23 23. D&C 84:88. full blessings of the Restoration, shall be in your hearts.” 24. D&C 50:22. including the blessings of the temple. Brothers and sisters, as you reach 25. Moroni 7:48.

MAY 2005 93 know that the day speedily cometh . . . when peace shall be taken from Be of Good Cheer the earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion. And also the Lord shall have power over his saints, and shall reign in their and Faithful midst.”5 We live in a time when peace has been taken from the earth. On the other hand, we live in a glorious time, a time when the Lord has in Adversity restored His priesthood. The true ELDER ADHEMAR DAMIANI gospel has been restored. The Church Of the Seventy of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the kingdom of God on earth! We are helping to prepare the earth for the The gospel of Jesus Christ gives us the strength and the time when the Lord Jesus Christ will eternal perspective to face what is coming with good cheer. come and personally reign. Why must we pass through trials in this life? The Lord makes no secret that He good cheer and to overcome all the will test our faith and our obedience. challenges of this life. “We will prove them herewith,” He What does it mean to be of good said, “to see if they will do all things cheer? It means having hope, not get- whatsoever the Lord their God shall ting discouraged, not losing faith, and command them.”6 living life joyfully. “Men are, that they We learn from the book of might have joy.”2 It means facing life Ecclesiastes: “All things come alike with confidence. to all: there is one event to the righ- The gospel of Jesus Christ gives us teous, and to the wicked; to the good the strength and the eternal perspec- and to the clean, and to the unclean; tive to face what is coming with good . . . as is the good, so is the sinner. . . . cheer. We must, however, not under- There is one event unto all.”7 Tem- estimate the difficulties that are pests may occur in the life of the man prophesied for our day. who built his life upon the rock of the What are some of these difficulties? gospel, as well as in the life of the How can we face them? foolish who built his life upon the Some of these difficulties are lack of things of this world.8 ow can we find peace in this hope, lack of love, and lack of peace. How should we react to these trials? world? How can we endure to The prophet Moroni taught, “If ye The Lord has said, “If any man will Hthe end? How can we over- have no hope ye must needs be in come after me, let him deny himself, come the difficulties and trials we are despair; and despair cometh because and take up his cross daily, and follow facing? of iniquity.”3 For many, the coming me.”9 Each day we must take up our The Savior Jesus Christ said: years may be years of despair. The cross and press forward—and not just “These things I have spoken unto greater the iniquity, the greater the linger on the sidelines of our eternal you, that in me ye might have peace. despair will be. journey. In the world ye shall have tribulation: The Savior said, “Because iniquity How can we know whether we are but be of good cheer; I have over- shall abound, the love of many shall being tried or whether the Lord is come the world.”1 wax cold.”4 As iniquity increases, true punishing us? As part of our mortal probation, we love disappears. As a result, fear, inse- Trials are opportunities for our pass through affliction, pain, and dis- curity, and despair grow! growth. The Lord said, “My people appointment. Only in Jesus Christ can To the Prophet Joseph Smith, the must be tried in all things, that they we find peace. He can help us to be of Lord said: “I . . . will that all men shall may be prepared to receive the glory

94 Family members assist a young man leaving the Auckland New Zealand Harbour Stake Center after the Sunday morning conference session. that I have for them, even the glory our obedience to His commandments, to put our lives in harmony with the of Zion; and he that will not bear and by our endurance to the end. will of the Lord, He will always be chastisement is not worthy of my Sometimes we might think that the ready to help ease our burdens. kingdom.”10 Lord does not hear or answer our What destroys our good cheer and When we are being tried, we should prayers. At such times, we need to our hope? ponder and ask, “What does the Lord stop and ponder what we have done Jesus Christ told the Twelve Apostles want me to do in this situation?” throughout our lives. If necessary, we some of the things that can destroy The Lord spoke these comforting must put our lives in harmony with our hope and make us give up: allow- words to the Prophet Joseph Smith: the gospel of Jesus Christ. Through ing ourselves to fall into temptation; “Know thou, my son, that all these the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord not enduring affliction, tribulation, things shall give thee experience, and revealed: and persecution; fearing “the cares” shall be for thy good. The Son of Man “I, the Lord, have suffered the of the world; seeking wealth first; hath descended below them all. Art affliction to come upon them, where- giving up instead of enduring to the thou greater than he?”11 We need to with they have been afflicted, in con- end; and allowing false prophets to view each trial as an opportunity for sequence of their transgressions. . . . deceive us.14 growth. Someday we will understand “They were slow to hearken unto What gives us courage and hope? the why. the voice of the Lord their God; there- The Lord’s invitation to each of us The Lord has said, “Whom I love I fore, the Lord their God is slow to is “come unto me, all ye that labour also chasten that their sins may be for- hearken unto their prayers, to answer and are heavy laden, and I will give given, for with the chastisement I pre- them in the day of their trouble. you rest.”15 Jesus Christ has the pare a way for their deliverance.”12 “In the day of their peace they power to give us rest from our pain The Lord loves each one of us. He esteemed lightly my counsel; but, in and suffering. wants us to be happy. This happiness the day of their trouble, of necessity The prophet Mormon taught: comes by our faith in Jesus Christ, by they feel after me.”13 “Wherefore, if a man have faith he our sincere and true repentance, by When we have the sincere desire must needs have hope; for without

MAY 2005 95 faith there cannot be any hope. . . . “. . . And if a man be meek and lowly in heart, and confesses by the Appreciating power of the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ, he must needs have charity.”16 If we daily exercise faith, meek- the Counsel ness, charity, and lowliness in heart, confessing that Jesus is the Christ, and accepting His Atonement, we will be blessed with the strength and of Those Who Are hope to face and overcome the trials and pains of this life. What are some of the Lord’s prom- Bowed in Years ises to each one of us? “Be of good cheer, little children; ELDER STEPHEN B. OVESON for I am in your midst, and I have not Of the Seventy forsaken you.”17 “Be of good cheer, for I will lead May we have added insights into and greater appreciation you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and for the power of testimony, especially as it is borne by those the riches of eternity are yours.”18 [who are bowed in years]. Quoting the words of the prophet Ether: “Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the followed, will help us steer our course right hand of God, which hope ever closer to our Savior. We ought cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to to be particularly grateful to live in the souls of men.”19 a time when our Church leaders, God is our Father. We are His chil- though many are advanced in years, dren. He loves us. He desires our hap- continue to receive the revelation and piness here in this life and for all inspiration that moves the kingdom eternity. We are led by a true prophet forward from day to day. of God today. Jesus is the Christ. As a young man, I was given a very Through Him, we can find peace in strong written admonition to prove this world. In the name of Jesus myself a faithful and obedient son so Christ, amen. ■ that as I grew older and whenever I NOTES needed counsel and advice, I should 1. John 16:33. go to my parents, though they be 2. 2 Nephi 2:25. 3. Moroni 10:22. “bowed in years,” to receive from 4. Matthew 24:12. them wisdom, comfort, and guidance. 5. D&C 1:35–36. My father passed away over 20 years 6. Abraham 3:25. 7. Ecclesiastes 9:2–3. y dear brothers and sisters, ago, having been a great and exem- 8. See Matthew 7:24–27. as we prepare to listen plary source of wisdom for me all the 9. Luke 9:23. to President Gordon B. days of my life, and we just laid my 101- 10. D&C 136:31. M 11. D&C 122:7–8. Hinckley’s closing remarks at the end year-old mother to rest beside her 12. D&C 95:1. of this marvelous general conference, eternal companion last Monday. In her 13. D&C 101:2, 7–8. 14. See Matthew 13:19–23. I fervently hope that each of us will 100th year, she affirmed her lifelong 15. Matthew 11:28. feel how blessed we are to have testimony in these words: “The gospel 16. Moroni 7:42, 44. received from prophets and apostles is a way of life; it is part of the plan to 17. D&C 61:36. 18. D&C 78:18. of the Lord the collective wisdom help us avoid bitterness. More than 19. Ether 12:4. and exhortation that, if heeded and ever, I believe that this life is good but

96 that the next life is better” (“Grow- ing Old Graciously: Lessons from a Centenarian,” Religious Educator 5, no. 1 [2004]: 11). My mother often told me that she prayed for me and for our family every day. As she came closer and closer to the veil, her prayers were especially fervent and meaningful to me. Both of my parents, as well as my dear parents-in-law, endured or are enduring to the end in righteous paths, leaving a legacy of faithful dedication for all their posterity to follow. President Ezra Taft Benson, in the November 1989 Ensign, is quoted as follows: “The Lord knows and loves the elderly among His people. It has always been so, and upon them He has bestowed many of His greatest responsibilities. In various dispensations He has guided His people through prophets who were in their advancing years. He has needed the wisdom and experience of age, the inspired direction from those with long years of proven faithfulness to His gospel” (“To the Elderly in the Church,” 4). people of Israel: “I die: and God will emphasis given to the final addresses These thoughts have caused me to surely visit you, and bring you out of of Nephi, Jacob, and King Benjamin— reflect on the great sermons, bless- this land unto the land which he whose mighty discourse changed the ings, testimonies, and admonitions sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to hearts of an entire nation—not to that prophets and apostles through- Jacob” (Genesis 50:24). mention the masterful words of out the ages have left, especially as Generations later, as fulfillment of Abinadi, who boldly spoke knowing they felt themselves waxing old or Joseph’s prophecy was about to be full well that his days were numbered: preparing to go down to the dust. realized, Moses left his blessings with “Teach them that redemption cometh Some of these parting passages are all the tribes of Israel and passed the through Christ the Lord, who is the among our most noteworthy and mantle of leadership to Joshua, who very Eternal Father” (Mosiah 16:15). quoted scriptures. For instance: in led the people back into the prom- The list continues with Alma and his Moses 6:57, Enoch states unequivo- ised land. As he was approaching his son, Alma; also Helaman, the son of cally, “Wherefore teach it unto your final days, Joshua left the immortal Helaman, who gave such priceless children, that all men, everywhere, words to “choose you this day whom advice to his sons: “And now, my sons, must repent, or they can in nowise ye will serve; . . . but as for me and my remember, remember that it is upon inherit the kingdom of God, for no house, we will serve the Lord” the rock of our Redeemer, who is unclean thing can dwell . . . in his (Joshua 24:15). Christ, the Son of God, that ye must presence.” These basic principles of Later prophets, such as Jeremiah, build your foundation . . . , which is a the gospel were being taught from the Isaiah, and Malachi, left equally indeli- sure foundation, a foundation time of Adam and Eve, passed down ble testimonies throughout their min- whereon if men build they cannot from generation to generation, as the istries, prophesying of the coming fall” (Helaman 5:12). scriptures attest, time and time again. Messiah and His infinite Atonement. These and other Book of Mormon Joseph who was sold into Egypt We find a similar pattern through- prophets, including Mormon himself, left these words of counsel with the out the Book of Mormon in the wrote for our day, knowing that we

MAY 2005 97 would need their knowledge and wis- the living God and that he was cruci- dom to aid us in these perilous times. fied for the sins of the world. The Book of Mormon itself ends with “He is my friend, my Savior, my the incomparable charge of Moroni, Lord, my God. the son of Mormon, as he tells us, “With all my heart I pray that the “Yea, come unto Christ, and be per- Saints may . . . gain an eternal inheri- fected in him, and deny yourselves of tance with him in celestial glory” (“An all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny Eternal Hope in Christ,” Ensign, Nov. yourselves of all ungodliness, and love 1978, 73). God with all your might, mind and Our prophet today, President strength, then is his grace sufficient Gordon B. Hinckley, continues to lead for you” (Moroni 10:32). us with his powerful convictions, as he We have similar “last testimonies” declared in a recent stake conference in the New Testament, such as Paul’s address: “I have a testimony, real, grand statement: “I have fought a good burning, and vital, of the truth of this fight, I have finished my course, I have work. I know that God our Eternal kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7), attest- Father lives and that Jesus is the ing to his having endured to the end. Christ, my Savior and my Redeemer. It We gain great insight into the is He who stands at the head of this growth of the mighty senior Apostle, Church. All I desire is that I go forward Peter, in his statement: “And be with this work as He would have it go clothed with humility: for God forward” (“Inspirational Thoughts,” resisteth the proud, and giveth grace • That through His Atonement, we Liahona and Ensign, Oct. 2003, 5). to the humble. Humble yourselves are able to repent and be cleansed Summarizing the testimonies of all therefore under the mighty hand of • That we are His covenant people the ancient and modern-day apostles God, that he may exalt you in due and should always keep the and prophets are the immortal words time” (1 Peter 5:5–6). covenants that we have entered of the Prophet Joseph Smith, who And certainly the greatest person- into declared: age of all time to learn from is the • That we need to spread His gospel “And now, after the many testi- risen Lord Himself, as He charged throughout the world monies which have been given of His Apostles and followers to “go ye • That we should have faith, repent, him, this is the testimony, last of all, therefore, and teach all nations, bap- be baptized, receive the Holy which we give of him: That he lives! tizing them in the name of the Father, Ghost, and endure to the end “For we saw him, even on the and of the Son, and of the Holy right hand of God; and we heard the Ghost: teaching them to observe all In our dispensation, modern-day voice bearing record that he is the things whatsoever I have commanded prophets of the Restoration reiterate Only Begotten of the Father” (D&C you: and, lo, I am with you alway, time and again these same principles. 76:22–23). even unto the end of the world” In the teachings of President John I wish to add my own humble (Matthew 28:19–20). Taylor we learn that “as the Son of affirmation of the truthfulness of the What a wealth of conviction and Man, He endured all that it was possi- aforementioned testimonies. I know knowledge these collective scriptures ble for flesh and blood to endure; as that our Heavenly Father is literally give us. Can we find common inspira- the Son of God He triumphed over all, the Father of our spirits and that Jesus tional threads running through each and forever ascended to the right hand Christ is our Savior, our Redeemer, of them? I believe they are easily of God” (Teachings of Presidents of the our Lord, and as we obey His com- recognizable: Church: John Taylor [2001], 44). mandments, our friend (see John One of my favorites, from 15:14). As we study the scriptures, • That Christ, the Son of God, lives President Spencer W. Kimball: may we have added insights into and and is our Redeemer and Savior “To the testimonies of these greater appreciation for the power of • That we should follow Him and mighty men and apostles of old—our testimony, especially as it is borne by show our love for Him by remem- brethren in the ministry of the same those of great wisdom and advanced bering Him and humbly keeping Master—I add my own testimony. I age, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus His commandments know that Jesus Christ is the Son of Christ, amen. ■

98 to Nephi’s phrase “the tender mercies of the Lord,” and I knew in that very The Tender Mercies moment I was experiencing just such a tender mercy. A loving Savior was sending me a most personal and timely message of comfort and reas- of the Lord surance through a hymn selected ELDER DAVID A. BEDNAR weeks previously. Some may count this experience as simply a nice coin- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles cidence, but I testify that the tender mercies of the Lord are real and that I testify that the tender mercies of the Lord are available they do not occur randomly or merely to all of us and that the Redeemer of Israel is eager by coincidence. Often, the Lord’s timing of His tender mercies helps us to to bestow such gifts upon us. both discern and acknowledge them.

What Are the Tender Mercies of the Lord? and had declared his powerful wit- Since last October I have reflected ness of the Savior. Then we all stood repeatedly upon the phrase “the ten- together to sing the intermediate der mercies of the Lord.” Through per- hymn that previously had been sonal study, observation, pondering, announced by President Gordon B. and prayer, I believe I have come to Hinckley. The intermediate hymn that better understand that the Lord’s ten- morning was “Redeemer of Israel” der mercies are the very personal and (Hymns, no. 6). individualized blessings, strength, pro- Now, the music for the various tection, assurances, guidance, loving- conference sessions had been deter- kindnesses, consolation, support, and mined many weeks before—and obvi- spiritual gifts which we receive from ously long before my new call to and because of and through the Lord serve. If, however, I had been invited Jesus Christ. Truly, the Lord suits “his to suggest an intermediate hymn for mercies according to the conditions of that particular session of the confer- the children of men” (D&C 46:15). ence—a hymn that would have Recall how the Savior instructed been both edifying and spiritually His Apostles that He would not leave ix months ago, I stood at this soothing for me and for the congre- them comfortless. Not only would He pulpit for the first time as the gation before my first address in send “another Comforter” (John Snewest member of the Quorum this Conference Center—I would 14:16), even the Holy Ghost, but the of the Twelve Apostles. Both then and have selected my favorite hymn, Savior said that He would come to even more so now, I have felt and feel “Redeemer of Israel.” Tears filled my them (see John 14:18). Let me sug- the weight of the call to serve and of eyes as I stood with you to sing that gest that one of the ways whereby the responsibility to teach with clarity stirring hymn of the Restoration. the Savior comes to each of us is and to testify with authority. I pray for Near the conclusion of the singing, through His abundant and tender and invite the assistance of the Holy to my mind came this verse from the mercies. For instance, as you and I Ghost as I now speak with you. Book of Mormon: “But behold, I, face challenges and tests in our lives, This afternoon I want to describe Nephi, will show unto you that the the gift of faith and an appropriate and discuss a spiritual impression I tender mercies of the Lord are over sense of personal confidence that received a few moments before I all those whom he hath chosen, reaches beyond our own capacity are stepped to this pulpit during the because of their faith, to make them two examples of the tender mercies Sunday morning session of general mighty even unto the power of deliv- of the Lord. Repentance and forgive- conference last October. Elder Dieter F. erance” (1 Nephi 1:20). ness of sins and peace of conscience Uchtdorf had just finished speaking My mind was drawn immediately are examples of the tender mercies of

MAY 2005 99 the Lord. And the persistence and the between this young man and his fortitude that enable us to press for- priesthood leader was most meaning- ward with cheerfulness through ful, and they agreed to meet and physical limitations and spiritual diffi- counsel together from time to time culties are examples of the tender during the following months. mercies of the Lord. That young man received the In a recent stake conference, the Lord’s tender mercies through an tender mercies of the Lord were evi- inspired priesthood leader. I repeat dent in the touching testimony of again, the Lord’s tender mercies do a young wife and mother of four not occur randomly or merely by coin- whose husband was slain in Iraq in cidence. Faithfulness and obedience December of 2003. This stalwart sister enable us to receive these important recounted how, after being notified of gifts and, frequently, the Lord’s timing her husband’s death, she received his helps us to recognize them. Christmas card and message. In the We should not underestimate or midst of the abrupt reality of a dra- snapshots of the young men and overlook the power of the Lord’s ten- matically altered life came to this women, he created flash cards that he der mercies. The simpleness, the good sister a timely and tender reviewed while traveling on business sweetness, and the constancy of the reminder that indeed families can be and at other times. This priesthood tender mercies of the Lord will do together forever. With permission I leader quickly learned all of the much to fortify and protect us in the quote from that Christmas card: names of the youth. troubled times in which we do now “To the best family in the world! One night the priesthood leader and will yet live. When words cannot Have a great time together and had a dream about one of the young provide the solace we need or express remember the true meaning of men whom he knew only from a pic- the joy we feel, when it is simply futile Christmas! The Lord has made it ture. In the dream he saw the young to attempt to explain that which is possible for us to be together forever. man dressed in a white shirt and unexplainable, when logic and reason So even when we are apart, we will wearing a missionary name tag. With cannot yield adequate understanding still be together as a family. a companion seated at his side, the about the injustices and inequities of “God bless and keep y’all safe and young man was teaching a family. The life, when mortal experience and eval- grant this Christmas to be our gift of young man held the Book of Mormon uation are insufficient to produce a love from us to Him above!!! in his hand, and he looked as if he desired outcome, and when it seems “All my love, Daddy and your loving were testifying of the truthfulness of that perhaps we are so totally alone, husband!” the book. The priesthood leader then truly we are blessed by the tender Clearly, the husband’s reference to awoke from his dream. mercies of the Lord and made mighty being apart in his Christmas greeting At an ensuing priesthood gather- even unto the power of deliverance referred to the separation caused by ing, the leader approached the young (see 1 Nephi 1:20). his military assignment. But to this sis- man he had seen in his dream and ter, as a voice from the dust from a asked to talk with him for a few min- Who Are They Whom the Lord departed eternal companion and utes. After a brief introduction, the Has Chosen to Receive father, came a most needed spiritual leader called the young man by name His Tender Mercies? reassurance and witness. As I indicated and said: “I am not a dreamer. I have The word chosen in 1 Nephi 1:20 earlier, the Lord’s tender mercies do never had a dream about a single is central to understanding the con- not occur randomly or merely by coin- member of this stake, except for you. cept of the Lord’s tender mercies. cidence. Faithfulness, obedience, and I am going to tell you about my The dictionary indicates that chosen humility invite tender mercies into our dream, and then I would like you to suggests one who is selected, taken lives, and it is often the Lord’s timing help me understand what it means.” by preference, or picked out. It also that enables us to recognize and treas- The priesthood leader recounted can be used to refer to the elect or ure these important blessings. the dream and asked the young man chosen of God (Oxford English Some time ago I spoke with a about its meaning. Choking with emo- Dictionary Online, second ed. priesthood leader who was prompted tion, the young man simply replied, [1989], “Chosen”). to memorize the names of all of the “It means God knows who I am.” Some individuals who hear or youth ages 13 to 21 in his stake. Using The remainder of the conversation read this message erroneously may

100 discount or dismiss in their personal I believe the implication of these agency were to love one another and lives the availability of the tender mer- verses is quite straightforward. God to choose God. Thus we become cies of the Lord, believing that “I cer- does not have a list of favorites to God’s chosen and invite His tender tainly am not one who has been or which we must hope our names mercies as we use our agency to ever will be chosen.” We may falsely will someday be added. He does not choose God. think that such blessings and gifts are limit “the chosen” to a restricted few. One of the most well-known and reserved for other people who appear Rather, it is our hearts and our as- frequently cited passages of scripture to be more righteous or who serve in pirations and our obedience which is found in Moses 1:39. This verse visible Church callings. I testify that definitively determine whether we are clearly and concisely describes the the tender mercies of the Lord are counted as one of God’s chosen. work of the Eternal Father: “For available to all of us and that the Enoch was instructed by the Lord behold, this is my work and my Redeemer of Israel is eager to bestow on this very point of doctrine. Please glory—to bring to pass the immortal- such gifts upon us. note the use of the word choose in ity and eternal life of man” (emphasis To be or to become chosen is not these verses: “Behold these thy added). an exclusive status conferred upon us. brethren; they are the workmanship A companion scripture found in Rather, you and I ultimately deter- of mine own hands, and I gave unto the Doctrine and Covenants describes mine if we are chosen. Please now them their knowledge, in the day I with equal clarity and conciseness our note the use of the word chosen in created them; and in the Garden of primary work as the sons and daugh- the following verses from the Eden, gave I unto man his agency; ters of the Eternal Father. Interestingly, Doctrine and Covenants: “And unto thy brethren have I said, this verse does not seem to be as well “Behold, there are many called, but and also given commandment, that known and is not quoted with great few are chosen. And why are they not they should love one another, and frequency. “Behold, this is your work, chosen? that they should choose me, their to keep my commandments, yea, with “Because their hearts are set so Father” (Moses 7:32–33; emphasis all your might, mind and strength” much upon the things of this world, added). (D&C 11:20; emphasis added). and aspire to the honors of men” As we learn in these scriptures, the Thus, the Father’s work is to bring (D&C 121:34–35; emphasis added). fundamental purposes for the gift of to pass the immortality and eternal

MAY 2005 101 life of His children. Our work is to keep His commandments with all of our might, mind, and strength—and Closing Remarks we thereby become chosen and, through the Holy Ghost, receive and PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY recognize the tender mercies of the Lord in our daily lives. The very conference in which we Surely the Lord is blessing us as a people, and we must are participating this weekend is yet reach out to bless His needy wherever they may be. another example of the Lord’s tender mercies. We have been blessed to receive inspired counsel from the leaders of the Savior’s Church— with eligibility for all of the blessings timely counsel for our day and for our that flow therefrom, should never be circumstances and for our challenges. any cause for self-righteousness, for We have been instructed, lifted, arrogance, for denigration of others, edified, called to repentance, and for looking down upon others. All strengthened. The spirit of this con- mankind is our neighbor. When asked ference has fortified our faith and which was the greatest command- fueled our desire to repent, to obey, ment of the law, the Lord said: “Thou to improve, and to serve. Like you, shalt love the Lord thy God with all I am eager to now act upon the thy heart, and with all thy soul, and reminders, counsel, and personal with all thy mind. . . . [And] thou shalt inspiration with which we have been love thy neighbour as thyself” blessed during this conference. And (Matthew 22:37, 39). in just a few moments each of us will Regardless of the color of our skin, receive one of the Lord’s tender of the shape of our eyes, of the lan- mercies as we hear the concluding guage we speak, we all are sons and remarks and testimony of President daughters of God and must reach out Gordon B. Hinckley. Truly, “the Lord is y beloved brethren and sis- to one another with love and concern. good to all: and his tender mercies ters, we have had a wonder- Wherever we may live we can be are over all his works” (Psalm 145:9). Mful conference. The Spirit of friendly neighbors. Our children can I am thankful for the Restoration of the Lord has been with us. We have mingle with the children of those not the gospel of Jesus Christ through the been taught many truths. Our testi- of this Church and remain steadfast if Prophet Joseph Smith and for the monies have been strengthened, our they are properly taught. They can knowledge we have today about the faith quickened. even become missionaries to their Lord’s tender mercies. Our desires, Through the miracle—and it is a associates. faithfulness, and obedience invite and miracle—of modern technology, We commend our wonderful youth help us to discern His mercies in our these proceedings have been broad- who for the most part stand up to the lives. As one of His servants, I declare cast worldwide. Ninety-five percent of evils of the world, who push these my witness that Jesus is the Christ, the membership of the Church in all evils aside and live lives pleasing to our Redeemer and our Savior. I know the world could have participated the Lord. We constantly pray that that He lives and that His tender mer- with us. their parents will likewise live worthily cies are available to all of us. Each of It has been a time for the renewal in every respect. us can have eyes to see clearly and of our faith in the great eternal veri- We repeat what we have said ears to hear distinctly the tender mer- ties which have come to us through before: make a habit of going to the cies of the Lord as they strengthen the instrumentality of the Prophet house of the Lord. There is no better and assist us in these latter days. May Joseph. How blessed we are. How for- way to ensure proper living than tem- our hearts always be filled with grati- tunate we are in our knowledge of ple attendance. It will crowd out the tude for His abundant and tender these transcendent truths. evils of pornography, substance abuse, mercies. In the sacred name of Jesus But may I say, as I have said in the and spiritual atrophy. It will strengthen Christ, amen. ■ past, our membership in this Church, marriage and family relations.

102 Now, as a Church we have worked Likewise, Rotary International has down blessings upon you. I leave with with others in lifting the sorrow and recognized the Church for a contribu- you my benediction and my love. I sufferings of those who are in distress. tion to bring about the eradication of leave with you my witness and my tes- Our humanitarian efforts have literally polio in third-world countries where timony that God our Eternal Father blessed the lives of countless thou- it still exists. lives, that He is personal and real, that sands not of our faith. In the terrible Countless lives have been saved, He is indeed our Father, that He lis- tsunami disaster, and in other disasters and much pain and misery have been tens to and will answer prayer. I give incident to conflict, disease, and avoided throughout their lives. you my witness that Jesus is the hunger, we have done a great and mar- To the extent made possible by Christ, the Redeemer of the world, velous work assisting others without resources which come from the gen- the only name under heaven whereby worrying about who gets the credit. erosity of our people, we are reaching we may be saved, and I leave you my In February of this year the presi- down to lift those in distress. witness and my testimony that God dent of the American Red Cross pre- Surely the Lord is blessing us as a and the Lord Jesus spoke in person to sented to the Church the Circle of people, and we must reach out to the boy Joseph and opened the cur- Humanitarians Award, which is the bless His needy wherever they may be. tains ushering in this great and final highest honor given by them. It is in Now, as we leave for our homes, I dispensation. recognition of the effort of the invoke the blessings of heaven upon God bless you, my beloved broth- Church to extend the vaccination you. Be faithful to the command- ers and sisters. Peace be with you now against measles to thousands and ments of the Lord, and He will open and always is my humble prayer in the thousands of young people. the windows of heaven and shower sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

MAY 2005 103 GENERAL YOUNG WOMEN MEETING March 26, 2005

The angel Moroni appeared to Joseph twice more during the night, Glad Tidings then again in the field and on the hill- side the next day, and then every year for the next four years on what we now know as Cumorah’s hill. That from Cumorah first day, Moroni repeated the same SUSAN W. TANNER message over and over again. Can you liken this to anything you experience? Young Women General President My children sometimes tease me that I tell them the same things over and You and I can not only survive but prevail, as did Moroni, over again. Don’t be too hard on your in our efforts to stand for truth in perilous times. parents and leaders when we repeat ourselves. The Lord had Moroni teach a young prophet through repetition. Repetition ingrains gospel principles in our minds and hearts. young women. We know the very time With these regular visits from the and place. It was on the night of angel, a glorious bond developed September 21, 1823, in an upstairs between that ancient prophet who bedroom while five of his brothers sealed up the plates and the modern slept. Joseph prayed that he “might prophet who was chosen to bring know of [his] state and standing them again to light. I believe that we before [God]” (Joseph Smith—His- should nurture love for the prophets, tory 1:29). Joseph felt inadequate and both ancient and modern, in our unworthy before God. He said he had hearts as well. How fitting that a statue not been “guilty of any great or malig- depicting the angel Moroni sits atop nant sins,” but had fallen into “foolish most of our modern temples. These errors, and displayed the weakness of serve as reminders that Moroni is that youth” (Joseph Smith—History 1:28), glorious “angel from on high [who] / so he prayed for reassurance. I can The long, long silence broke” (Hymns, identify with young Joseph’s feelings, no. 13), about whom our choir will as I know many of you can. How often sing tonight. have each of us fallen to our knees Joseph Smith learned so much s I visited Joseph Smith’s with such feelings of inadequacy and from Moroni. Then in the safety and restored small and humble log need for divine reassurance? sanctity of that log home where Ahome, I sensed that I was in a In response to Joseph’s penitent Moroni appeared, Joseph shared holy place. I was at the site where the and faithful prayer, Moroni, a heav- much of what he had learned with his angel Moroni first appeared to Joseph enly messenger, appeared to him. receptive family. His mother said: Smith to usher in this great and mar- Joseph records that “he called me by “Joseph continued to receive velous work of the Restoration of the name, and said . . . that God had a instructions from time to time, and gospel of Jesus Christ. While contem- work for me to do” (Joseph Smith— every evening we gathered our chil- plating the intertwined lives of these History 1:33). Joseph marveled dren together and gave our time up two great prophets—Moroni, the last “greatly at what had been told to to the discussion of those things. . . . prophet of his age, and Joseph, the [him] by this extraordinary messen- I think that we presented the most first prophet of our dispensation— ger” (Joseph Smith—History 1:44). peculiar aspect of any family that ever I have had numerous “likening” We too can receive spiritual reas- lived upon the earth, all seated in a moments. Let me share some “liken- surance in response to our prayers. circle, . . . listening in breathless anxi- ing” lessons as I bear testimony of this We can receive a witness that our ety to the religious teachings of a boy great and marvelous work. Father in Heaven knows us by name eighteen years of age” (The Revised When Joseph first met Moroni, he and that He has an earthly mission for and Enhanced History of Joseph was just 17, the age of many of you us to fulfill. Smith by His Mother, ed. Scot Facer

104 Proctor and Maurine Jensen Proctor [1996], 111). As a result of these daily family home evenings, Lucy Mack Smith stated that this was a time in their home of sweet unity, happiness, and tranquility. What a model young Joseph is for us of strengthening home and family! He did not keep his testimony and spiritual experiences to himself but shared them often with his parents and siblings. We can do the same in our homes. The Smith family needed to cling to each other because the outside persecutions against Joseph and the family were persistent. Perhaps Moroni’s teachings and example helped the Prophet Joseph learn how to stand as a witness in a wicked world. Moroni lived in the kind of world he predicted would exist in modern times—“a day when there shall be . . . murders, and robbing, and lying, and deceivings, and whoredoms, and all manner of abomina- tions” (Mormon 8:31). Moroni also knew firsthand about loneliness and discouragement. After a great and tremendous battle between the Nephites and the Lamanites where all of his people were destroyed, he lamented: “I am alone. My father hath been slain in battle, and all my kinsfolk, and I have not friends nor whither to go; and how long the Lord will suffer that I may live I know not” (Mormon 8:5). Can you sense Moroni’s loneliness the writings of the prophets. Above people like you who would carry out and discouragement? all, he fought his way out of his dis- the Lord’s work in this final dispensa- I realize that many of us also at couragement by clinging to the Lord’s tion. Elder Holland said, “The leaders times feel without friends and alone promises for the future. He clung to in those ages past, were able to keep in a wicked world. Some of us feel we the covenants that God had made going, . . . not because they knew have not “whither to go” as we face with the house of Israel to bless them that they would succeed but because our trials. But you and I can not only forever. they knew that you would . . . a survive but prevail, as did Moroni, in Moroni exercised faith in the prom- magnificent congregation of young our efforts to stand for truth in per- ised blessings for future generations. [women] like you . . . in a deter- ilous times. What did he do when Elder Jeffrey R. Holland explained that mined effort to see the gospel facing a lonely and hostile world? He, this joyful anticipation of past prophets, prevail and triumph” (“Terror, in faithful obedience to his father’s including Moroni, was because they Triumph, and a Wedding Feast,” direction, finished the record on the had seen our day in vision. They saw Church Educational System fireside, gold plates. He became familiar with strong, covenant-keeping young Sept. 12, 2004; see www.ldsces.org).

MAY 2005 105 We have that huge responsibility to devil shall send forth his mighty fulfill Moroni’s “joyful anticipation.” winds, . . . it shall have no power over We who belong to The Church of you to drag you down to the gulf of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are misery . . . , because of the rock upon bound by covenant to the Lord. He which ye are built, which is a sure has said: “I [will] not forget thee. . . . foundation” (Helaman 5:12). I have graven thee upon the palms of The profound strength the family my hands” (Isaiah 49:15–16; see also exhibited comes from the knowledge 1 Nephi 21:15–16). that they are eternally bound to each The binding and strengthening other as a family, and they are bound power of covenants in our lives be- to Heavenly Father and cannot be came very real to me recently as our separated from Him. dear friends experienced a tragic loss Like Moroni, Joseph Smith, in their family. While Catherine and and Catherine and Kimball, we Kimball Herrod and their four young too can emerge victorious through children, ages nine months to seven trials, wickedness, and persecutions. years, were driving home from a fam- Priesthood covenants bind us eter- ily dinner at their grandparents’ place, nally with our earthly and heavenly a double wheel from a huge semitruck families and arm us with righteous- on the opposite side of the freeway ness and power. suddenly sprang loose, flew across the How grateful I am to live in this median, and pounded into the dri- great and marvelous day when the ver’s side of the family van. Kimball, gospel has been restored! I express the driver, husband, and father, was my witness of and gratitude for the severely injured and unconscious. two great prophets, Moroni and Catherine somehow guided the car to Joseph Smith, who met in that the shoulder and called for emergency upper bedroom and then worked help. While she watched the para- together in bringing forth the Book of medics work on her husband and two of the power of covenants to sustain Mormon. Let me conclude by echoing older children, she sat in a police car us in moments of distress and grief. the joyful exclamation of the Prophet with her two little ones on her lap and As we joined in the closing song, we Joseph about the restored gospel: prayed vocally, “Heavenly Father, we all heard above the crowd the voice “Now, what do we hear in the know that Thou hast the power to of Taylor, the five-year-old son, loudly gospel which we have received? A heal Kimball if it is Thy will, but if not, singing, “Families Can Be Together voice of gladness! . . . we have faith that somehow Thou wilt Forever” (Hymns, no. 300). It was joy- “. . . Glad tidings from Cumorah! sustain us through this.” Kimball was ous for the congregation to know that Moroni, an angel from heaven, declar- life-flighted to the hospital, but he did a child had been taught of the sealing ing the fulfilment of the prophets— not make it there alive. covenants that would bind him to his the book to be revealed. . . . After the children were treated father and mother. “Brethren [and sisters], shall we for cuts, bruises, and other minor We were also taught the power of not go on in so great a cause? . . . Let injuries, dismissed from the hospital, covenants in the sermon offered by your hearts rejoice, and be exceed- and safely home in bed, Catherine Catherine’s father. He quoted a scrip- ingly glad. . . . returned to the hospital to say her ture from the precious record that “. . . Let us, therefore, as a church final earthly good-bye to her husband. Moroni had sealed up and then and a people, . . . offer unto the Lord As difficult as it was, she declared to brought forth to the Prophet Joseph, an offering in righteousness” (D&C her parents, who were with her, “I reminding us that the gospel prom- 128:19, 20, 22, 24). know that Kimball and I are sealed by ises us a rock in the storms and whirl- I know this is the Church of Jesus our temple covenants, and we will be winds, not an umbrella: Christ. May each of us let the gospel together again someday.” In the most “Remember, remember that it is sink deep into our souls so that we terrible trial of a young mother’s life, upon the rock of our Redeemer, who love and serve God with full purpose her covenants sustained her. is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must of heart, in the name of Jesus Christ, At the funeral, we were reminded build your foundation; that when the amen. ■

106 who is the first member of the Church in her family. She held her A Work for Me well-worn Personal Progress book and said she dreamed of having a gospel- centered family. A Young Women president in Armenia is carrying out to Do the Young Women program faithfully JULIE B. BECK although she does not have a Church Handbook of Instructions written in First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency her language. Members in Russia go to the tem- The Lord sent an angel to Joseph Smith to tell him ple regularly. They save their rubles that he had a work to do. That work continues today in us. and travel for days by bus, train, and boat to get to the nearest temple in Sweden. My nine-year-old niece, Kimberly, talked so enthusiastically about the What Joseph did was remarkable. Church to her friend that her friend He began life as a simple farm boy, but said, “I want to sign up for your through him the Book of Mormon church. Where do I sign up?” was brought forth and translated, the The young men and young women priesthood and its keys were restored in my own ward are developing lead- to earth, The Church of Jesus Christ ership skills and talents. They are will- of Latter-day Saints was organized, ing to sing, play musical instruments, and holy temples began to be built. give talks, participate in service proj- Through Joseph Smith all the ordi- ects, and do any number of other nances the children of our Heavenly things so that they can be part of this Father need for their salvation are marvelous work. now upon the earth. This was the day And then there was the young of miracles spoken of in Moroni (see man in Bogotá who said, “I speak on Moroni 7:35–37) and the marvelous behalf of the young men of Colombia. work and wonder foretold to Nephi We are worthy and we are preparing centuries ago (see 1 Nephi 14:7). to serve!” The work Joseph started was I have been where the Church is remember a family home evening carried on by early members of the small and where it is large in num- lesson when I was a girl where my Church who had faith in the Lord bers, where it is new and where it is I father taught us of the visit of the Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. well established, but the responsibility angel Moroni to the Prophet Joseph Through their efforts the gospel of of each one of us is the same: we are Smith. He said that after a sincere Jesus Christ began to spread over all part of the true, restored gospel of prayer, an angel appeared at Joseph’s the earth. They truly did a marvelous Jesus Christ. We have a work to do. bedside. The angel was a messenger work. We serve in simple ways, our testi- sent from God, his name was Moroni, But the day of miracles is not over, monies grow, and we are part of this and he told Joseph that God had a and the marvelous work is still going day of miracles. work for him to do (see Joseph on. When we were baptized, each of In my own lifetime I have been a Smith—History 1:33). I remember my us became part of that work. witness to the miracle of the restored father teaching that “Joseph did not This past year as I have visited with gospel. When I was a young girl my say, ‘Oh no, Angel, I just wanted to members of the Church, I have seen family moved to São Paulo, Brazil, know which church was true. I did that through the faith and work of where my father had been called to not know I needed to do something!’ ” simple people, the Lord’s covenant is preside over the Brazilian Mission. It But of course Joseph needed to do being established on the earth (see was an exciting time for me and a something. He had a special calling D&C 1:17–23). great place to grow up. A favorite from the Lord. There is a young woman in Korea game for my brothers and me was to

MAY 2005 107 dress up and pretend to be missionar- manuals sent from the headquar- year I returned to Brazil to attend the ies. We spent hours scribbling our ters of the Church. Everything that rededication of the São Paulo temple. own missionary pamphlets and was needed to teach the gospel in At that time I learned that there were “preaching” and “transferring” all Portuguese was written and printed in 187 stakes in Brazil. There are now 26 over the yard. For five years the nightly our mission home. All of us, even the missions, 4 temples, and almost 1 mil- conversations around our dinner table children, were pressed into service to lion members. Imagine my surprise centered on missionary work, and I lis- help assemble mission newsletters when I walked into a stadium filled tened intently to stories of faith told by and lessons. No one shipped the with over 60,000 members who had missionaries. Even at that age I knew I Church to us. The prophet did not gathered to hear President Gordon B. was part of a great work. send us stake presidents or bishops. Hinckley and celebrate the temple There were only about 3,000 mem- He did not send Relief Society presi- dedication. To me it was a miracle to bers of the Church in Brazil when we dents or youth programs. The Church see thousands of youth dancing and arrived there. I remember being in a in Brazil was made from the same singing together. As I watched that very small Primary with a few other material that the pioneers started joyful celebration, I kept saying to children, singing the same five songs with. The material to build the myself, “This is amazing! This is a mir- every week, as those were the only Church was in the people. acle! How did this miracle happen?” ones translated into Portuguese. Two During our years in Brazil, we saw I marveled all that night at what I of my favorite songs were “A Luz great growth come to the Church. had seen. Then, the next morning at Divina,” or “The Light Divine” Thousands became Latter-day Saints. the temple dedication, I had a (Hymns, no. 305), and something Soon the mission was divided, dis- reunion with my Primary teacher, about a bunny in the middle of the tricts and branches were organized, Sister Gloria Silveira. That was when woods (see “The Little Rabbit,” and new chapels were built. The new I knew how the miracle had come Children’s Friend, June 1955, 257). members were enthusiastic, and they about. As a new convert with no prior In many ways our experience was grew in faith and became more expe- Church experience, Sister Silveira had similar to the early pioneers. We had rienced in the manner of the gospel. come to Primary prepared to share no hymnbooks or pictures or lesson A lot of years passed, and then last her simple testimony and teach me

108 the Articles of Faith in Portuguese. She and her husband, Humberto, are still faithful. They have served in many He Knows You Church callings over the years, and they are still serving. When I saw Sister Silveira, I realized that the Church in Brazil had grown because by Name of her and thousands like her. She ELAINE S. DALTON and Brother Silveira represent people everywhere who have faith in the Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency Lord Jesus Christ and His gospel. They have grown in knowledge and You may not have heard the Lord call you by name, skill, and they have served in the but He knows each one of you and He knows your name. Church (see D&C 88:80). They have shared the gospel with friends (see D&C 30:5). They work in the temple (see D&C 138:48). They taught their five children correct principles (see been like to have been Joseph D&C 68:28). Of their 43 descen- Smith. In those quiet moments, the dants, 15 have served full-time mis- Spirit whispered to my beating heart sions. Their grandchildren are now that I was standing on holy ground marrying in the temple, and their and that all that the Prophet Joseph great-grandchildren are the fourth Smith had said was true. Then generation of Silveiras who are part of came the powerful realization that the marvelous work that was started we are all the beneficiaries of his by Joseph Smith. Because of them, faith, courage, and steadfast desire faith has increased in the earth. They to obey God. He had received are an example of the miracle the an answer to his humble prayer. Lord spoke about when He said that He had seen the Father and His His gospel would be proclaimed by Beloved Son. There in the Sacred the weak and the simple (see D&C Grove, I knew that Heavenly Father 1:23) and that by small and simple not only knew Joseph Smith by means great things are brought to name, but He also knows each of us pass (see 1 Nephi 16:29). by name. And just as Joseph Smith The Lord sent an angel to Joseph t was on “the morning of a beauti- had an important part to play in this Smith to tell him that he had a work ful, clear day, early in the spring of great and marvelous work, we too to do. That work continues today Ieighteen hundred and twenty” have an important part to play in in us and is directed by President when 14-year-old Joseph Smith went these latter days. Gordon B. Hinckley, a living prophet, into the grove, knelt in prayer, and Did you know that Heavenly who said: “Glorious is this work. “saw two Personages, whose bright- Father knows you personally— by It will bless the life of every man, ness and glory defy all description, name? The scriptures teach us that woman, boy, and girl who embraces standing above [him] in the air.” He this is true. When Enos went into the it” (“Missionary Service,” Worldwide said: “One of them spake unto me, woods to pray, he recorded, “There Leadership Training Meeting, Jan. 11, calling me by name and said, point- came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, 2003, 21). “God be thanked for His ing to the other—This is My Beloved thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou marvelous bestowal of testimony, Son. Hear Him!”1 Can you imagine shalt be blessed.”2 Moses not only authority, and doctrine associated how 14-year-old Joseph must have felt prayed but also talked to God face-to- with this, the restored Church of to see God the Father and His Son, face, and God said to Moses, “I have a Jesus Christ” (“The Marvelous Jesus Christ, and to hear Heavenly work for thee, Moses, my son.”3 The Foundation of Our Faith,” Liahona Father call him by his name? Lord knew Jacob’s name and changed and Ensign, Nov. 2002, 81). In the When I visited the Sacred Grove, it to Israel to more accurately reflect name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ I tried to imagine what it must have his mission on the earth.4 Similarly,

MAY 2005 109 He changed the names of Paul and pressure and persecution, for in his Abraham and Sarah. In Doctrine and words he said, “I had seen a vision; I Covenants, section 25, Emma Smith is knew it, and I knew that God knew it, given a blessing for her comfort and and I could not deny it.”12 He could guidance in life. The Lord begins this stand firm because of his testimony. blessing by saying, “Hearken unto the And so can you. voice of the Lord your God, while I If you have ever felt the tug of peer speak unto you, Emma Smith, my pressure, pray, ask in faith, and listen daughter.”5 to the Holy Ghost. Then live the You may not have heard the Lord gospel. Joseph keenly realized his call you by name, but He knows each imperfections and weaknesses. one of you and He knows your name. Again—he prayed. In response to this Elder Neal A. Maxwell said: “I testify to prayer, he was visited by the angel you that God has known you individ- Moroni. Joseph recounted: “He called ually . . . for a long, long time (see me by name” and said “that God had D&C 93:23). He has loved you for a a work for me to do.”13 long, long time. He not only knows As we pray, the Lord will guide the names of all the stars (see Psalm and prepare us to do our part. One 147:4; Isaiah 40:26); He knows your summer, while touring Europe with names and all your heartaches and the BYU International Folk Dancers, your joys!”6 I learned an important lesson. I was How can you know that your name sick and I became discouraged. I and needs are known by our Heavenly wanted to quit and go home. We Father? Elder Robert D. Hales coun- were in Scotland to perform our seled: “Turn to the scriptures. Kneel in show for the members, investigators, prayer. Ask in faith. Listen to the Holy and missionaries. We went to the Ghost. . . . Live the gospel with mission home for a prayer. As I patience and persistence.”7 Elaine S. Dalton of the Young Women entered, I glanced at a stone in the That’s what Joseph did. His testi- general presidency remembers front garden. Chiseled in the stone mony helps all of us know that we are being encouraged by the message were the words “What-e’er thou art known and loved by our Heavenly on this sign. act well thy part.” That message went Father. We are truly daughters of a like electricity to my heart. I felt that Heavenly Father who loves us.8 Elder pray! We can call upon God in the that stone was speaking to me. It Jeffrey R. Holland has told us: “No name of His holy Son, Jesus Christ, changed me. I knew at that instant one of us is less treasured or cher- and seek comfort, guidance, and that I had a part to play not only on ished of God than another. . . . He direction. Have you ever had a prob- that dancing tour but throughout my loves each of us—insecurities, anxi- lem and not known what to do? life and that it was very important to eties, self-image, and all. . . . He Joseph said: “My mind was called “act well” my part.14 cheers on every runner, calling out up to serious reflection and great What does the Lord expect us to that the race is against sin, not against uneasiness. . . . I often said to myself: do? He expects us to play our part in each other.”9 What is to be done?”10 the final scenes prior to His coming. Once Joseph Smith received this How did he receive comfort and He expects us to prove ourselves wor- knowledge, his life didn’t get easier. guidance? He studied the scriptures, thy to return and live with Him. He In fact, he was faced with intense pondered their promises, and then expects us to become like Him. Fol- pressure from peers and adults. “came to the determination to ‘ask of low Joseph’s pattern. I love the words Joseph Smith’s history provides an God.’ ”11 The answer he received that in the hymn the choir just sang: “But important pattern for each of us. beautiful spring day changed his life undaunted, still he trusted / In his We can apply his teachings when we and direction. He knew. He gained a Heav’nly Father’s care.”15 To be don’t know what to do, when we are testimony of God and Jesus Christ, undaunted means unshaken in pur- faced with peer pressure, when and his testimony enabled him to live pose, resolutely courageous. Joseph we feel surrounded by temptation, the gospel with patience and persist- described himself as a “disturber” of or feel unworthy or alone. We can ence. He was undeterred by peer the adversary’s kingdom. He said, “It

110 seems as though the adversary was aware . . . that I was destined to prove a disturber and an annoyer of his kingdom.”16 I have written in the margin of my scriptures, “Be a disturber!” Trust in your Heavenly Father’s care. Each of us will play an important part if we follow the pattern established by Joseph Smith. The Lord strengthened Joseph Smith for his divine mission. He will strengthen you for yours. He may even send His holy angels to tutor you. Now the challenge is this: Will you be in such a place that angels can enter? Will you be still enough to hear? Will you be undaunted and trust? We are living at a time when the fulness of the gospel has been restored to the earth through the Lord’s prophet, Joseph Smith. We are living in a time when we have the Book of Mormon to guide us. We are living in a time when we have a living prophet, the priesthood power on the earth, and the sealing power to bind families together for eternity in holy temples. Truly these are days “never to be forgotten”!17 It is my prayer that each one of us might be firm in our faith, that we might follow the pattern Joseph Smith established for us to gain a testimony. I also pray that each of us will worthily represent the Savior as we Each of you has a part to play in 8. See Young Women theme. take upon ourselves His name. He this great and marvelous work. The 9. “The Other Prodigal,” Liahona, July 2002, 72; Ensign, May 2002, 64. has promised: “As the new heavens Savior will help you. He will lead 10. Joseph Smith—History 1:8, 10. and the new earth, which I will make, you by the hand.20 He knows you by 11. Joseph Smith—History 1:13. shall remain before me, . . . so shall name. I so testify, in the sacred name 12. Joseph Smith—History 1:25. 18 ■ 13. Joseph Smith—History 1:33; emphasis your . . . name remain.” of Jesus Christ, amen. added. My testimony of the restored 14. President David O. McKay was motivated gospel of Jesus Christ has served as a by this same stone when he was on his mis- NOTES sion in Scotland. The stone was later pur- guide and an anchor in my life. I am 1. Joseph Smith—History 1:14, 17; emphasis chased and placed in the front yard of the grateful to stand before you today added. mission home in Scotland so it would be a and say with all the energy of my 2. Enos 1:5; emphasis added. source of inspiration for the missionaries. heart, “We thank thee, O God, for a 3. Moses 1:6; emphasis added. It is now in the Museum of Church History 4. See Bible Dictionary, “Israel,” 708. 19 and Art in Salt Lake City, Utah. prophet.” I am so grateful for the 5. D&C 25:1; emphasis added. 15. “Joseph Smith’s First Prayer,” Hymns, no. 26. integrity of a 14-year-old young man 6. “Remember How Merciful the Lord Hath 16. Joseph Smith—History 1:20. who prayed for an answer to his Been,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, 46. 17. Joseph Smith—History 1:71, note. 7. “Receiving a Testimony of the Restored 18. Isaiah 66:22. questions and then remained true Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Liahona and 19. Hymns, no. 19. to the knowledge he received. Ensign, Nov. 2003, 31. 20. See D&C 112:10; Abraham 1:18.

MAY 2005 111 the words from Mount Sinai: “Honour thy father and thy mother.”2 Be Thou My, how your parents love you, how they pray for you. Honor them. How do you honor your parents? I like the words of William Shakespeare: an Example “They do not love that do not show 3 PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON their love.” There are countless ways in which you can show true love to First Counselor in the First Presidency your mothers and your fathers. You can obey them and follow their teach- You can share your testimony in many ways—by the words ings, for they will never lead you astray. you speak, by the example you set, by the manner You can treat them with respect. They have sacrificed much and continue to in which you live your life. sacrifice in your behalf. Be honest with your mother and your father. One reflection of such honesty with parents is to communi- loves you and has confidence in you cate with them. Avoid the silent treat- and in your leaders. You are an exam- ment. The clock ticks more loudly, its ple of righteousness in a world which hands move more slowly when the desperately needs your influence and night is dark, the hour is late, and a your strength. precious daughter has not yet come Perhaps your battle cry might well home. If you are detained, make a tele- be the charge given by the Apostle phone call: “Mom, Dad, we’re OK. Just Paul to his beloved Timothy: “Be thou stopped for something to eat. Don’t an example of the believers, in word, worry; we’re fine. Be home soon.” in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in A number of years ago, while faith, in purity.”1 attending a youth gathering at the Today, permissiveness, immorality, Clarkston, Utah, cemetery, where pornography, and the power of peer each of the group viewed the memo- pressure cause many to be tossed on rial which marks the grave of Martin a sea of sin and crushed on the jagged Harris, one of the Three Witnesses to reefs of lost opportunities, forfeited the Book of Mormon, I noticed blessings, and shattered dreams. another marker—a small stone in y dear sisters, both those of Precious young women, and you which was inscribed a name and this you assembled in the magnif- mothers, Young Women leaders, and poignant verse: “A light from our Micent Conference Center and advisers, may I leave with you a code household is gone; a voice we loved is those receiving the proceedings by of conduct to guide your footsteps stilled. A place is vacant in our hearts satellite throughout the world, I pray safely through mortality and to the that never can be filled.” for an interest in your prayers, that I celestial kingdom of our Heavenly Don’t wait until that light from may rise to the responsibility which is Father. I have divided my code of your household is gone; don’t wait mine to address you. conduct into four parts: until that voice you know is stilled We have been edified and inspired before you say, “I love you, Mother; I by the messages of the Young Women • You have a heritage; honor it. love you, Father.” Now is the time to presidency, the beautiful music ren- • You will meet temptation; with- think and the time to thank. I trust dered, and the very spirit of this stand it. you will do both. You have a heritage; meeting. We have received a renewed • You know the truth; live it. honor it. appreciation for the Prophet Joseph • You possess a testimony; share it. Next in our code of conduct: You Smith, for his life, and for the restored will meet temptation; withstand it. gospel of Jesus Christ. First, you have a heritage; honor it. The Prophet Joseph Smith faced The First Presidency of the Church There come thundering to our ears temptation. Can you imagine the

112 ridicule, the scorn, the mocking that must have been heaped upon him as he declared that he had seen a vision? I suppose it became almost unbearable for the boy. He no doubt knew that it would be easier to retract his statements concerning the vision and just get on with a normal life. He did not, however, give in. These are his words: “I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true. . . . I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it.”4 Joseph Smith taught courage by example. He faced temptation and withstood it. Many of you are familiar with the play Camelot. I’d like to share with you one of my favorite lines from this production. As the difficulties among King Arthur, Sir Lancelot, and Queen Guinevere deepen, King Arthur cautions, “We must not let our passions destroy our dreams.” This plea I would leave with you tonight. Do not let your passions destroy your dreams. Withstand temptation. Remember the words from the Book of Mormon: “Wickedness never was happiness.”5 Essential to your success and happiness is the advice “Choose your friends with caution.” We tend to become like those whom we admire, and they are usually our friends. We to rob you of this blessing. voice which testifies of truth. As the should associate with those who, like Make every decision you contem- prophet Isaiah promised, “Thine ears us, are planning not for temporary plate pass this test: What does it do shall hear a word . . . saying, This is convenience, shallow goals, or narrow to me? What does it do for me? And the way, walk ye in it.”6 ambition—but rather with those who let your code of conduct emphasize The tenor of our times is permis- value the things that matter most, not, “What will others think?” but siveness. All around us we see the even eternal objectives. rather, “What will I think of myself?” idols of the movie screen, the heroes Maintain an eternal perspective. Be influenced by that still, small of the athletic field—those whom Let there be a temple marriage in voice. Remember that one with many young people long to emu- your future. There is no scene so authority placed his hands on your late—as disregarding the laws of sweet, no time so sacred as that very head at the time of your confirmation God and rationalizing away sinful special day of your marriage. Then and said, “Receive the Holy Ghost.” practices, seemingly with no ill effect. and there you glimpse celestial joy. Open your hearts, even your very Don’t you believe it! There is a time Be alert; do not permit temptation souls, to the sound of that special of reckoning—even a balancing of

MAY 2005 113 the ledger. Every Cinderella has her if you had seen God the Father and scriptures, in the teachings of the midnight—it’s called Judgment Day, Jesus Christ, His Son, if Christ had prophets, and through the inspiration even the Big Exam of Life. Are you spoken to you, and then you had no which comes to you as you bend your prepared? Are you pleased with your additional word or communication knees and seek the help of God. own performance? for three years? Would you begin to Remember, faith and doubt can- Help can come to you from many doubt? Would you wonder or ques- not exist in the mind at the same sources. One is your patriarchal bless- tion why? The Prophet Joseph Smith time, for one will dispel the other. ing. Such a blessing contains chapters did not wonder; he did not question; Cast out doubt. Cultivate faith. Strive from your book of eternal possibili- he did not doubt the Lord. He had always to retain that childlike faith ties. Read your blessing frequently. received the truth, and he lived it. which can move mountains and bring Study it carefully. Be guided by its My dear young friends, you have heaven closer to heart and home. cautions. Live to merit its promises. been reserved to come forth at this When firmly planted, your testi- Now, if any has stumbled in her particular time when the gospel of mony of the gospel, of the Savior, and journey, there is a way back. The Jesus Christ has been restored to the of our Heavenly Father will influence process is called repentance. Our earth. Speaking of the gospel and all that you do throughout your life. It Savior died to provide you and me of testimony, President Gordon B. will help to determine how you spend that blessed gift. Though the path is Hinckley said: “[The] thing which we your time and with whom you choose difficult, the promise is real: “Though call testimony . . . is as real and pow- to associate. It will affect the way you your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as erful as any force on the earth. . . . treat your family, how you interact white as snow.”7 “And I will remember It is found in young and old. . . . It with others. It will bring love, peace, [them] no more.”8 You will meet brings with it the assurance that life is and joy into your life. It should help temptation; it is my prayer that you purposeful, that some things are of far you determine to be modest in your will withstand it. greater importance than others, that dress and in your speech. In the past Next in our code of conduct: You we are on an eternal journey, that we year or so we have noticed a dramatic know the truth; live it. are answerable unto God.”9 change in the way some of our young After Joseph Smith’s vision in the You have been taught the truths women are dressing. Styles in clothing Sacred Grove, he received no addi- of the gospel by your parents and change; fads come and go; but if the tional communication for three years. by your teachers in the Church. You dress styles are immodest, it is impor- Can you imagine how you would feel will continue to find truth in the tant that our young women avoid

114 them. When you dress modestly, you show respect for your Heavenly Father and for yourself. At this time, when dress fashions are styled after the skimpy clothing some of the current movie and music idols are wearing, it may be difficult to find modest apparel in clothing stores. However, it is possible, and it is important. The Apostle Paul declared: “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? . . . The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.”10 You know the truth; live it. Finally, you possess a testimony; share it. Never underestimate the far- reaching influence of your testimony. You can strengthen one another; you have the capacity to notice the un- noticed. When you have eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to feel, you can reach out and rescue others of your age. To illustrate, may I share with you continued: “At that time I lived on my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and an experience which took place sev- Gale Street in your ward and was not a mine angels round about you, to bear eral years ago when Sister Monson member of the Church. You made cer- you up.”11 had been hospitalized because of a tain the girls who were members con- Tomorrow is Easter. On this Easter fall. She asked me to go to the super- tacted me each week and took me with eve, may our thoughts turn to Him market and purchase a few items. them to Mutual and other activities. who atoned for our sins, who showed This was something I had not done They were fine young women whose us the way to live, how to pray, and before. I had a shopping list which friendship and kindness touched my who demonstrated by His own actions included potatoes. I promptly found a heart. I want to let you know that the how we might do so. Born in a stable, grocery cart and placed a number of fellowshipping you arranged for me led cradled in a manger, the Son of God potatoes in it. I knew nothing of the to my being baptized and confirmed a beckons to each of us to follow Him. plastic bags in which purchases are member of the Church. What a bless- “Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives: normally placed. As I moved the cart ing this has been in my life,” she said, ‘I know that my Redeemer lives.’ ”12 along, the potatoes fell out and onto “and I thank you for your kindness.” May His Spirit be with you always, I the floor, exiting through two rather You can share your testimony in pray, in His holy name—even Jesus small openings in the back of the cart. many ways—by the words you speak, Christ the Lord—amen. ■ A dutiful clerk hurried to my aid and by the example you set, by the man- NOTES called out, “Let me help you!” I tried ner in which you live your life. 1. 1 Timothy 4:12. to explain to her that my cart was May each of us emulate the 2. Exodus 20:12. 3. The Two Gentlemen of Verona, in The defective. It was only then that I was Prophet Joseph’s great example. He Complete Works of William Shakespeare, told that all the carts had those two taught the truth; he lived the truth; ed. William Aldis Wright, Cambridge edition (1936), act 1, scene 2, line 31. holes in the back and that they were he shared the truth. You possess a 4. Joseph Smith—History 1:25. meant for the legs of children. testimony; share it. 5. Alma 41:10. Next the clerk took my list and My dear sisters, may God bless 6. Isaiah 30:21. 7. Isaiah 1:18. helped me find each item. Then you. We love you; we pray for you. 8. Jeremiah 31:34. she said, “You are Bishop Monson, Remember that you do not walk 9. “Testimony,” Ensign, May 1998, 69–70. aren’t you?” alone. The Lord has promised you: “I 10. 1 Corinthians 3:16–17. 11. D&C 84:88. I answered that many years earlier will go before your face. I will be on 12. Samuel Medley, “I Know That My Redeemer I had indeed been a bishop. She your right hand and on your left, and Lives,” Hymns, no. 136.

MAY 2005 115 3. What does the Lord think about poker, lotteries, slot machines, and They Spoke to Us other forms of gambling? (58) 4. We are told to “stand in holy Making Conference Part of Our Lives places.” Where are they? How are they made holy? What can you s you make the April 2005 gen- Book of Mormon been trans- do to ensure eral conference a part of your lated? How many temples will A own and your family’s life, you be in use by the end of this might consider using the following year? (4) for personal study and family home 2. This year we celebrate evening. Or you may wish to create the 175th anniversary of an your own questions, activities, and dis- important event and the 200th that they cussion ideas. (Numbers refer to the anniversary of a prophet’s birth. always remain beginning page number of the talks.) What was the event, and who was holy? (62) 1. In how many languages has the the prophet? (43) 5. What can you do now to become a “more hardworking, testimony-enriched” STORIES TO READ AND SHARE missionary? (69) 6. What are seven “great things In the talks beginning on the pages listed below, you’ll find stories you can tell which God has revealed” through the and insights you can share. Prophet Joseph Smith that distinguish our Church from all other churches? Man can hardly wait for baptism, 10 What additional truths would you Pioneer family faces hardships, 19 add? (80) Joseph Smith shows kindness to children, 26 7. What are the four suggested James E. Talmage helps a sick family, 26 ways to help in overcoming pornography? (87) Young Dieter F. Uchtdorf pumps bellows for organ, 36 8. Do you ever feel Missionary couples serve around the world, 39 depressed? Find out Heber C. Kimball leaves family to serve mission, 43 Composer writes what Moroni did Man is warned of danger, 46 “Teach Me to Walk when he was faced Marie Curie perseveres to make discovery, 51 with discourage- in the Light,” 13 ment in “a lonely Young man shot at Haun’s Mill serves a mission, 51 and hostile world.” Elders save Lorenzo Snow, 51 (104) ■ Man becomes active after not letting the bishop in his home, 54 Man tries to teach a colt to be led, 69 Young David E. Sorensen chooses to serve a mission, 72 Soldier refuses to drink coffee, 72 Father gives spare tire to strangers, 74 Woman misses bus and meets missionaries, 84 Wife receives Christmas card after husband’s death, 99 Priesthood leader dreams about a young man in his stake, 99 Husband and father is killed in auto accident, 104

PHOTOGRAPH OF SACRAMENT BY CRAIG DIMOND; PHOTOGRAPH OF MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA TEMPLE BY MICHAEL MILNER; PHOTOGRAPH OF GUAYAQUIL ECUADOR TEMPLE BY EDUARDO LEDENO PEREZ; BROTHER JOSEPH, BY DAVID LINDSLEY, MAY NOT BE COPIED 116 Teachings for Our Time

he following instruc- to class the latest general tions for fourth- conference issue of the T Sunday Melchizedek magazine. Ward and Priesthood and Relief branch leaders should Society lessons replace ensure that all members those in Information for have access to the Church Priesthood and Auxiliary magazines. Leaders on Curriculum, 2005 through 2008. Suggestions for Preparing Melchizedek Priesthood a Lesson from Talks and Relief Society meetings • Pray that the Holy Spirit on the fourth Sunday of will be with you as you each month will be devoted study and teach the to “Teachings for Our talk(s). You may at times Time.” All “Teachings for be tempted to set aside Our Time” lessons will be the conference talks and taught from talks in the prepare the lesson using most recent general confer- other materials. But the ence issue of the Liahona conference talks are the or Ensign. These issues are approved curriculum. published each May and Your assignment is to November. The talks are help others learn and meaning of the princi- increase their understand- also available online (in live the gospel as taught ples and doctrines. ing of the gospel, learn to many languages) at in the most recent gen- –Share their understand- apply gospel principles in www.lds.org. eral conference of the ing, ideas, experiences, their lives, and strengthen Each lesson can be pre- Church. and testimonies of the their commitment to live pared from one or more • Review the talk(s), principles and doctrines. the gospel” (Teaching talks. Stake and district looking for principles –Apply these principles Guidebook [2001], 12). presidents may choose and doctrines that meet and doctrines in their Please send comments which talks should be used, the needs of class mem- lives. about “Teachings for Our or they may assign this re- bers. Also look for sto- • Review chapters 31–32 Time” to Curriculum sponsibility to bishops and ries, scripture references, of Teaching, No Greater Development, 50 East branch presidents. These and statements from the Call. North Temple Street, Room priesthood leaders should talk(s) that will help you 2420, Salt Lake City, UT stress the value of having teach the principles and “What matters most 84150-3220, USA; e-mail: the Melchizedek Priesthood doctrines. is that members feel the cur-development@ brethren and the Relief • Make an outline of how influence of the Spirit, ldschurch.org. ■ Society sisters study the you want to teach the same talks on the same principles and doctrines. Months Fourth-Sunday Lesson Materials Sundays. Teachers should Your outline should May–October 2005 Talks published in the May 2005 Liahona seek counsel from their include questions that or Ensign* leaders regarding any help class members: special emphasis. –Look for principles and November 2005– Talks published in the November 2005 Those attending fourth- doctrines in the talk(s) April 2006 Liahona or Ensign* Sunday lessons are encour- you are teaching. aged to study and bring –Think about the * These talks are available online (in many languages) at www.lds.org.

MAY 2005 117 “Women and Men Have God-Given Mine Unbelief,” Liahona, Jan. 2002, Aaronic Priesthood Differences” section of the lesson. 31; Ensign, Nov. 2001, 28. Use one or Duty to God (Priest), “Citizenship two of the scripture stories in the arti- and Social Development,” no. 2. cle to replace or supplement the sto- and Young Women Lesson 31: Choosing an Eternal ries in the lesson. Companion Duty to God (Teacher), “Family Resource Guides Thomas S. Monson, “Whom Shall Activities,” no. 1. I Marry?” New Era, Oct. 2004, 4. The Lesson 36: Patriarchal Blessings he following resources may be Hinckley’s counsel to supplement the personal story and counsel could be Boyd K. Packer, “The Stake Tused to supplement, but not lesson. used with the “Finding the Right Patriarch,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. replace, lessons in Aaronic Priesthood Richard G. Scott, “Serious Person” section. 2002, 42. Use excerpts from President Manual 3 and Young Women Manual 3. Questions, Serious Answers,” Liahona, Dallin H. Oaks, “Timing,” Packer’s talk to supplement the “What In the references, Duty to God stands Sept. 1997, 28; “Making the Right Liahona and Ensign, Oct. 2003, 10. Is a Patriarchal Blessing?” section. for the Aaronic Priesthood: Fulfilling Choices,” Ensign, Nov. 1994, 37. Use Add the “Applications to Our Lives” “About Patriarchal Blessings,” Our Duty to God guidebooks. the question and answer format to dis- part of the article to the “Timing for Liahona, Mar. 2004, 18; New Era, Personal Progress stands for the cuss the morality issues mentioned in Marriage” section of the lesson. Mar. 2004, 32. Use the article as a Young Women Personal Progress the lesson. Duty to God (Priest), “Citizenship review to supplement the lesson’s booklet. Some Duty to God and Duty to God (Teacher), “Spiritual and Social Development,” no. 4. conclusion. Personal Progress activities listed in Development,” no. 5. Lesson 32: Preparing for the Duty to God (Teacher, Priest), the guides may be worked on during Lesson 27: The Body Is a Temple Temple Endowment “Family Activities,” no. 3. lesson time, or you may encourage Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s Howard W. Hunter, “A Temple- Lesson 37: Fruits and Gifts quorum or class members to complete Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Motivated People,” Liahona, Mar. of the Spirit them at home. Additional teaching Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. 2004, 40; Ensign, Mar. 2004, 38. The Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The suggestions are found in the Liahona 2001, 2; New Era, Jan. 2001, 4. The section of the article titled “The Great Unspeakable Gift,” Liahona and on the “Using the Liahona” page, in “Be Clean” section could be used to Symbol of Our Membership” could Ensign, May 2003, 26. Elder Wirthlin’s the New Era on the “What’s in It for introduce the lesson. enhance the discussion in the explanation of the gift of the Holy You” page, and in Teaching, No Boyd K. Packer, “Spiritual “Purposes of Temples” section of the Ghost could help introduce the lesson. Greater Call. Crocodiles,” Liahona, Oct. 2002, 8; lesson. Robert D. Hales, “Gifts of the Please teach the lessons in the New Era, Oct. 2001, 8. The analogy Duty to God (Priest), “Family Spirit,” Ensign, Feb. 2002, 12. order they are printed. The manual and story in the article illustrate the Activities,” no. 10. Consider using the examples of spiri- does not include a specific Christmas consequences of disobedience. Lesson 33: Celestial Marriage— tual gifts in the article to enhance the lesson. If you want to teach a special Duty to God (Deacon), A Preparation for Eternity lesson. Christmas lesson, consider using “Educational, Personal, and Career Richard G. Scott, “Receive the Lesson 38: The Pure Love of Christ scriptures, conference addresses, Development,” no. 12. Temple Blessings,” Liahona, July William W. Parmley, “Come, Church magazine articles, pictures, Lesson 28: Withstanding 1999, 29; Ensign, May 1999, 25. Follow Me,” Liahona and Ensign, and hymns that focus on the life and Temptation Consider using the opening para- Nov. 2003, 93. Choose one of the mission of the Savior. Gordon B. Hinckley, “An Ensign to graph of the article in the lesson stories in the article to illustrate To find non-English versions of the Nations, a Light to the World,” introduction. Christlike service. the resource guides in some lan- Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 82. F. Burton Howard, “Eternal Duty to God (Teacher), “Citizen- guages, go to www.lds.org, click on Consider adding President Hinckley’s Marriage,” Liahona and Ensign, May ship and Social Development,” no. 3. the world map, and select a language. counsel as you discuss the role of 2003, 92. The three obligations dis- Duty to God (Priest), “Spiritual Click on “Liahona,” then the May modern prophets. cussed in the article could enhance Development,” no. 4. 2005 issue. James E. Faust, “The Devil’s the lesson introduction. Lesson 39: Feasting on the The English version of the Throat,” Liahona and Ensign, May Duty to God (Priest), “Citizenship Words of Christ resource guides can be found at 2003, 51. The analogy and commen- and Social Development,” nos. 2, 4. Robert D. Hales, “Healing Soul www.lds.org by clicking on “Gospel tary in the article could supplement Lesson 34: Obedience and Body,” Liahona, Jan. 1999, 16; Library.” There are links to the most the lesson. R. Conrad Schultz, “Faith Ensign, Nov. 1998, 14. Elder Hales’s current resource guides in the right Lesson 29: Sabbath Observance Obedience,” Liahona, July 2002, 32; counsel on pondering could be column. Earl C. Tingey, “Keeping the Ensign, May 2002, 29. The story and included in the “We Can Be Future resource guides will be Sabbath Day Holy,” Liahona, Feb. ideas on “faith obedience” could sup- Nourished by the Word of God” printed in the May and November 1999, 48; Ensign, Feb. 2000, 48. plement the “Blessings Come When section of the lesson. issues of the Liahona and Ensign. Consider using this article to intro- an Aaronic Priesthood Holder Is W. Rolfe Kerr, “The Words of The Church magazines (in some lan- duce the lesson. Obedient” section in the lesson. Christ—Our Spiritual Liahona,” guages) can be found online at “Call the Sabbath a Delight,” Duty to God (Deacon), Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, 36. www.lds.org. Ensign, Apr. 2001, 46. The article’s “Citizenship and Social Consider adding ideas from this arti- ideas for keeping the Sabbath day Development,” no. 5. cle to the end of the “Scripture Study Aaronic Priesthood holy could help begin a discussion. Duty to God (Priest), “Family Helps Us Stay Closer to Heavenly Duty to God (Teacher), “Spiritual Activities,” no. 1. Father” section. Manual 3 Development,” no. 2. Lesson 35: Faith in the Lord Duty to God (Deacon, Teacher, The following resources may be Lesson 30: An Aaronic Priesthood Jesus Christ Priest), “Family Activities,” no. 1. used to supplement, but not replace, Holder Cherishes Womanhood Gordon B. Hinckley, “We Walk by Lesson 40: Doing Missionary Work lessons 26–49. James E. Faust, “Womanhood: Faith,” Liahona, July 2002, 80; Dallin H. Oaks, “Sharing the Lesson 26: Blessings of Chastity The Highest Place of Honor,” Ensign, May 2002, 72. Use the train Gospel,” Liahona, Jan. 2002, 7; Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Tragic Evil Liahona, July 2000, 116; Ensign, May analogy to support the lesson’s Ensign, Nov. 2001, 7. Elder Oaks’s among Us,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2000, 95. Include ideas about the spe- conclusion. three main points could be added to 2004, 59. Consider using President cial gifts of womanhood with the L. Whitney Clayton, “Help Thou the lesson.

118 Gary J. Coleman, “Are You Still Here?” Liahona, July 2000, 34; Ensign, May 2000, 29. Consider including examples of finding people to teach. Duty to God (Priest), “Quorum Activities,” no. 3; “Spiritual Development,” no. 11. Lesson 41: Becoming More like Our Savior James E. Faust, “Born Again,” Liahona, July 2001, 68; Ensign, May 2001, 54. The story of Atiati could be added to the discussion on coming unto Christ. L. Lionel Kendrick, “Strength during Struggles,” Liahona, Mar. 2002, 28; Ensign, Oct. 2001, 24. The article’s “A Personal Savior” section could supplement the discussion about the Savior. suggest ways to strengthen personal a Legacy of Faith” section. Experiences,” no. 5. Lesson 42: Being Humble and testimonies. Russell M. Nelson, “Roots and Lesson 28: Consecration and Teachable Duty to God (Deacon), “Spiritual Branches,” Liahona and Ensign, Sacrifice Marlin K. Jensen, “To Walk Development,” no. 5. May 2004, 27. You could use Elder Neal A. Maxwell, “Consecrate Thy Humbly with Thy God,” Liahona, July Duty to God (Priest), “Quorum Nelson’s testimony from the article Performance,” Liahona, July 2002, 39; 2001, 9; Ensign, May 2001, 9. Use Activities,” no. 5. to conclude the lesson. Ensign, May 2002, 36. Use Elder some of the examples of humility Lesson 46: Effective Home Teaching Duty to God (Deacon, Teacher), Maxwell’s counsel as you discuss the from the article after using the story John L. Haueter, “Junior “Spiritual Development,” no. 6. Joseph Smith quote in the lesson. in the lesson. Companion,” Liahona, Nov. 2001, 28; Keith B. McMullin, “An Invitation Athos M. Amorim, “Words of New Era, Jan. 2001, 36. This story Young Women with Promise,” Liahona, July 2001, Jesus: Humility,” Liahona, Mar. 2003, could be included in the discussion 75; “Are You a Saint?” New Era, Feb. 38; Ensign, Mar. 2003, 48. Consider of how companions should work Manual 3 2003, 38. Consider using the counsel replacing the story in the lesson with together. The following resources may be on avoiding worldliness after the the Savior’s example and teachings Duty to God (Teacher), “Spiritual used to supplement, but not replace, teacher presentation on celestial laws. on humility that are discussed in the Development,” no. 3. lessons 26–47. Personal Progress, “Faith Value article. Lesson 47: Honesty Lesson 26: Repentance Experiences,” no. 7. Lesson 43: Thoughts and Language Howard W. Hunter, “Be Honest Richard G. Scott, “Peace of Lesson 29: A Change of Heart Robert K. Dellenbach, “Profanity,” with Yourself,” New Era, July 2003, 36. Conscience and Peace of Mind,” Ezra Taft Benson, “Of the Most Liahona, Sept. 1996, 28; New Era, Add the “Examples of Dishonesty” sec- Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2004, 15. Worth,” Tambuli, Feb. 1990, 2; New May 1992, 46. This article could tion of the article to the discussion. Consider adding the teachings on the Era, July 2002, 46. As part of the les- enhance the “We Should Use Clean Dallin H. Oaks, “Repentance and steps of repentance to the son application, include the para- Language in All Situations” section. Change,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. “Repentance Brings Peace and graphs on how testimony can better “Danger Ahead! Avoiding 2003, 37. You might use Elder Oaks’s Happiness to Our Lives” section prepare missionaries. Pornography’s Trap,” Liahona, Oct. comment in the middle of the talk of the lesson. Henry B. Eyring, “We Must Raise 2002, 12; New Era, Oct. 2002, 34. about being honest to help teach the Henry B. Eyring, “Do Not Delay,” Our Sights,” Ensign, Sept. 2004, 14. Some of the suggestions and quotes “Honesty Is the Basis for All Good Liahona, Jan. 2000, 38; Ensign, Nov. Consider concluding the lesson with in the article could enhance the part Relationships” section. 1999, 33. Include Elder Eyring’s coun- Elder Eyring’s counsel on the pure of the lesson on keeping our Duty to God (Priest), “Spiritual sel with the “We Need to Repent Each gospel. thoughts and language clean. Development,” no. 1. Day” section. Personal Progress, “Integrity Duty to God (Teacher), “Spiritual Lesson 48: Preparing to Serve Personal Progress, “Choice and Value Experiences,” no. 2. Development,” no. 5. through Education Accountability Value Experiences,” Lesson 30: Scripture Study Lesson 44: Service to Others John K. Carmack, “The Perpetual no. 4. Russell M. Nelson, “Living by “Priesthood Restored,” Liahona, Education Fund: A Bright Ray of Lesson 27: Forgiving Ourselves Scriptural Guidance,” Liahona, Jan. Apr. 2004, 30; Ensign, Apr. 2004, 18. Hope,” Liahona, Jan. 2004, 32; Ensign, Neal A. Maxwell, “Testifying of the 2001, 19; “Getting Where You Want Ideas from the article could be used Jan. 2004, 36. Consider including the Great and Glorious Atonement,” to Go,” New Era, May 2003, 4. Use to show how priesthood holders can article as you discuss how education Liahona, Apr. 2002, 6; Ensign, Oct. ideas from the article to supplement serve others. can prepare us for employment. 2001, 10. Consider adding Elder the “The Scriptures Can Guide Us Duty to God, “Citizenship and Duty to God (Deacon, Teacher, Maxwell’s testimony as you discuss and Help Us Meet Daily Challenges” Social Development,” (Deacon), Priest), “Educational, Personal, and the difficulty in forgiving ourselves. section. no. 10; (Teacher), no. 12. Career Development,” no. 1. Jeffrey R. Holland, “Teaching, Julie B. Beck, “My Soul Delighteth Lesson 45: Strengthening Lesson 49: We Have a Wonderful Preaching, Healing,” Liahona, Jan. in the Scriptures,” Liahona and Testimonies by Bearing Them Legacy 2003, 12; Ensign, Jan. 2003, 32. The Ensign, May 2004, 107. Consider Adam C. Olson, “Standing the James E. Faust, “A Priceless “Christ Knows the Way” section of sharing Sister Beck’s scripture study Test of Time,” Liahona, Feb. 2004, 36; Heritage,” Ensign, July 2002, 2. this article could help you teach experiences. New Era, Feb. 2004, 20. Use the state- Consider including some of the pio- about the gift of forgiveness. Personal Progress, “Faith Value ments given by youth in the article to neer stories to enhance the “We Have Personal Progress, “Faith Value Project,” bullet 4.

MAY 2005 119 Value Experiences,” no. 2. the article to supplement your discus- Lesson 38: Good Health Habits sion on criticizing others. Boyd K. Packer, “Ye Are the Richard H. Winkel, “Web of Temple of God,” Liahona, Jan. 2001, Friendship,” Liahona, Aug. 2003, 32; 85; Ensign, Nov. 2000, 72. Use ideas New Era, Aug. 2003, 10. The analogy from this article to supplement the of the redwoods could help the dis- “The Lord Has Given Guidelines for cussion of reaching out to others. Our Health” section of the lesson. Personal Progress, “Divine Nature David A. Bednar, “Ye Are the Value Experiences,” no. 7. Temple of God,” Ensign, Sept. 2001, Lesson 44: Avoiding Crisis Living 14. After the quiz, use this article to Richard G. Scott, “To Acquire help review the lesson. Knowledge and the Strength to Use Personal Progress, “Knowledge It Wisely,” Liahona, Aug. 2002, 12; Value Project,” bullet 3. Ensign, June 2002, 32. Ideas from the Lesson 39: Recognizing Our article could enhance your discus- Individual Worth sion of doing all things in wisdom Glenn L. Pace, “Confidence and and order. Self-Worth,” Ensign, Jan. 2005, 32. Paula J. Lewis, “Five Ways to This article could enhance the sec- Reduce Stress,” Liahona, Sept. 2000, tion of the lesson on strengths and 24; “Four Steps to Reduce Stress,” Lesson 31: Service in the Church dishonesty to help conclude the lesson. weaknesses. Ensign, Oct. 1998, 71. These sugges- Henry B. Eyring, “In the Strength Personal Progress, “Integrity Sydney S. Reynolds, “He Knows tions could be used with the “We Can of the Lord,” Liahona and Ensign, Value Experiences,” no. 4. Us; He Loves Us,” Liahona and Avoid Crisis Living” section. May 2004, 16. Share one of the expe- Lesson 35: Dating Decisions Ensign, Nov. 2003, 76. Consider Personal Progress, “Individual riences in the article to illustrate will- Susan W. Tanner, “Make Dating adding a story from the article to Worth Value Experiences,” no. 2. ing Church service. Smooth Sailing,” Liahona, Oct. 2004, the Zion’s Camp story. Lesson 45: Choosing a Vocation Susan W. Tanner, “All Things Shall 42; New Era, Oct. 2004, 28. Sup- Personal Progress, “Individual Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s Work Together for Your Good,” plement the lesson section on physi- Worth Value Experiences,” no. 1. Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, 104. cal affection with the four principles Lesson 40: Loving Ourselves Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. Consider using the example of serv- in the article. and Others 2001, 2; New Era, Jan. 2001, 4. ice in the article. John Bytheway, “What Do Kisses “Questions and Answers,” Consider using the “Be Smart” sec- Personal Progress, “Good Works Mean?” New Era, Oct. 2004, 38. Use Liahona, Dec. 2004, 40; New Era, tion to enhance your discussion on Value Experiences,” no. 1. the article to enhance the lesson dis- Dec. 2004, 16. Supplement your dis- choosing a vocation. Lesson 32: Service in the cussion on kissing. cussion on loving ourselves with John K. Carmack, “The Perpetual Community Personal Progress, “Choice and ideas from the article. Education Fund: A Bright Ray of James E. Faust, “What’s in It for Accountability Value Experiences,” “Down on Yourself?” New Era, Hope,” Liahona, Jan. 2004, 32; Me?” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2002, no. 2. Jan. 2003, 19. Ensign, Jan. 2004, 36. The informa- 19. Use one of the stories in the arti- Lesson 36: Marriage Standards Personal Progress, “Individual tion in the article could be added to cle to illustrate examples of serving Gordon B. Hinckley, “How Can I Worth Value Experiences,” no. 3. the “There Are Guidelines We Can others. Become the Woman of Whom I Lesson 41: Being Dependable Use in Choosing a Vocation” section. Stephen A. West, “Five Small Dream?” Liahona, July 2001, 112; “Managing Time and Staying Personal Progress, “Knowledge Experiences,” Ensign, Feb. 2004, 60. Ensign, May 2001, 93. Consider Balanced,” Liahona, Apr. 2003, 33; Value Project,” bullet 2. One of the experiences in the article adding ideas from this article to the New Era, Apr. 2003, 39. Use this list to Lesson 46: Money Management could be used to supplement the “We Must Remain True to Righteous help teach about being dependable. “Not Room Enough to Receive lesson. Standards” section of the lesson. “Play Your Part,” New Era, Aug. It,” Liahona, Dec. 2003, 18; Ensign, Personal Progress, “Good Works Special Issue: Dating and Temple 1997, 19. Dec. 2003, 46. Consider adding a Value Experiences,” no. 6. Marriage, Liahona and New Era, Oct. Personal Progress, “Integrity story from the article to the section Lesson 33: Each Person Is Divine 2004. Review this issue for ideas to Value Project,” bullet 1. on tithing. and Eternal supplement the lesson. Lesson 42: Preparing for Change Kristi Linton, “Money Matters,” Gordon B. Hinckley, “Each a Personal Progress, “Individual Reneé Harding, “Not Just Me,” New Era, Sept. 2004, 34. The budget- Better Person,” Liahona and Ensign, Worth Value Experiences,” no. 2. Liahona, Feb. 2004, 26; New Era, ing forms in the article could be used Nov. 2002, 99. The counsel on divine Lesson 37: The Word of God Feb. 2004, 32. Consider replacing at the end of the lesson. nature could be used to help intro- as a Standard the story in the lesson with Reneé’s Personal Progress, “Knowledge duce the lesson. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Pursue experience. Value Experiences,” no. 2; “Choice Personal Progress, “Divine Nature the Steady Course,” Liahona and Juli Housholder, “It’s Just Hair,” and Accountability Value Experiences,” Value Experiences,” no. 1. Ensign, Jan. 2005, 2. Use the section Liahona, Aug. 2003, 18; New Era, no. 7. Lesson 34: Avoiding Dishonesty “Pursuing a Steady Course” after dis- Aug. 2003, 20. The article could be Lesson 47: Messages of Latter-day Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s cussing the challenges confronted used at the beginning of the “We Prophets Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” by every young woman. Can Learn to Adjust to Change Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. Jan Pinborough, “Everything Successfully” section. Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” 2001, 2; New Era, Jan. 2001, 4. The Good and Beautiful,” Liahona, Mar. Personal Progress, “Integrity Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. “Be True” section of the article could 2003, 14; Ensign, Mar. 2003, 62. Use Value Experiences,” no. 4. 2001, 2; New Era, Jan. 2001, 4. Select enhance the lesson’s introduction. the article to discuss standards of Lesson 43: Associations with Others appropriate counsel in this article to Thomas S. Monson, “Peace, Be modesty. James E. Faust, “The Need for use in the lesson. Still,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2002, Personal Progress, Balance in Our Lives,” Liahona and Personal Progress, “Faith Value 53. Use the two questions on “Choice and Accountability Ensign, Mar. 2000, 2. Consider using Experiences,” no. 1. ■

120 General Auxiliary Presidencies NEWS OF THE CHURCH

SUNDAY SCHOOL Elder Benjamin De Hoyos Of the Seventy

to be able to serve better.” Elder De Hoyos and his Daniel K. Judd A. Roger Merrill William D. Oswald wife, Evelia Genesta Mendivil First Counselor President Second Counselor De Hoyos, have lived in YOUNG MEN almost every state in Mexico during his work for CES as a seminary teacher, CES coordi- nator, institute director, associate area director, and country director. During that time he has served as president or counselor in four stake presi- Dean R. Burgess Charles W. Dahlquist II Michael A. Neider dencies, president of the First Counselor President Second Counselor his July, Elder Benjamin Mexico Tuxtla Gutiérrez RELIEF SOCIETY De Hoyos Estrada of the Mission, Area Seventy, and TFirst Quorum of the Second Counselor in the Seventy and his extended Mexico South Area Presidency. family will celebrate 100 years He and Evelia were mar- since his great-grandmother ried on June 4, 1975, in the on his mother’s side joined Mesa Arizona Temple. They the Church in 1905. and their six children main- But their long history with tained their unity during all of the Church is not the family’s the moves and all of the hours Kathleen H. Hughes Bonnie D. Parkin Anne C. Pingree First Counselor President Second Counselor only legacy—they are a family of Church service through of teachers, having influenced family scripture study and YOUNG WOMEN countless lives. planning time to be together. Elder De Hoyos’s mother Though he will give up his was a teacher. He has two employment to serve full- uncles who taught at Brigham time, he won’t be giving up Young University. His three teaching. “One is never fin- sisters are teachers. Now the ished teaching or learning,” profession has reached into a Elder De Hoyos says. “Being third generation with one of a teacher is a great privilege.” Julie B. Beck Susan W. Tanner Elaine S. Dalton his daughters. Elder De Hoyos was First Counselor President Second Counselor Elder De Hoyos planned born on February 20, 1953, PRIMARY on being an engineer, then in Monterrey, Mexico, to graduated in pedagogy and Alfredo De Hoyos and Sarah spent 26 years with the Estrada De Hoyos. He Church Educational System. served in the Mexico “The Lord’s hand was in my Hermosillo Mission. ■ decision to change from engineering to teaching,” Elder De Hoyos says. “We are all teachers in the Margaret S. Lifferth Cheryl C. Lant Vicki F. Matsumori First Counselor President Second Counselor Church. My profession has been a resource to me

MAY 2005 121 Elder David F. Evans Elder C. Scott Grow Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

endeavors since returning an appreciation for work. home to Salt Lake City. Later, Elder and Sister In addition to missionary Grow moved with their eight service, Elder Evans has children to Uruguay, where served in a variety of callings, Elder Grow served as presi- including stake president at dent of the Uruguay the time of his call to the Montevideo Mission. Seventy. He served previously “He has been given the as a counselor in a stake gifts of optimism and enthusi- presidency, stake Young Men asm,” Sister Grow says. “He is president, and bishop. warm and loving with people, Born in Salt Lake City on and people respond to that.” August 11, 1951, to David C. Elder Grow was born to o the best you can for and Joy F. Evans, Elder Evans lder Cecil Scott Grow of Cecil Wood Grow and Elsie as long as you can.” is quick to credit them as the First Quorum of the May Lee Grow on May 5, 1948, DElder David Frewin exemplary parents. His wife, ESeventy says his testi- in Moscow, Idaho. He was Evans of the First Quorum Mary, whom he married in the mony began to blossom as raised in Boise, Idaho, and of the Seventy has always Salt Lake Temple on January a seven-year-old in Sunday resided in Meridian, Idaho. remembered these words 24, 1973, has also been a great School. While singing “Joseph He graduated from Brigham of wisdom, shared by his source of strength. Smith’s First Prayer” (Hymns, Young University in account- father during a challenging Devoted to higher educa- no. 26), he received a witness ing and worked with major time near the end of his tion, Elder Evans earned a that Joseph Smith was a accounting and business con- father’s life. bachelor’s degree in commu- prophet of God. sulting firms before establish- We all have trials and chal- nity health education and a Since that time Elder ing his own accounting lenges, but “the key is to law degree. He has been a Grow’s understanding of partnership. Before his recent have faith in the Lord,” says partner and practicing attor- gospel doctrine has flour- call to full-time Church serv- Elder Evans. “He has opened ney with a number of Utah ished, strengthening his testi- ice, Elder Grow served as an the door to all of us, not only law firms and is also an exec- mony and giving him a firm Area Seventy and as President to eternal blessings but to utive in an investment bank- foundation. “I have never had of the Idaho Area. He also wonderful blessings of peace ing business. any doubt that Jesus Christ is served as counselor in the and happiness and opportu- Elder Evans knows that our Savior and Redeemer,” North America Northwest nity today.” And once we blessings will follow any trials Elder Grow says. Area Presidency, stake presi- have a testimony of the that may come in life. But he Elder Grow and his wife, dent, counselor in two stake gospel, “we ought to share plans to “go forward with Rhonda Lee Patten Grow, presidencies, mission presi- it!” he encourages. faith,” as President Hinckley were married on October 10, dent, high councilor, stake Missionary work has been has taught. When we do that, 1969, in the Salt Lake Temple. Young Men president, a big part of Elder Evans’s he says, “we then ultimately Although they were both bishop’s counselor, and full- life, beginning with his first recognize that the Lord has raised in the city, the couple time missionary in the mission to Japan in the early been with us and is with us” followed advice given to them Southeast Mexico Mission. ■ 1970s and again while serving after all we can do. ■ by Elder L. Aldin Porter (then as mission president in the a regional representative). Japan Nagoya Mission from They built a home on a five- 1998 to 2001. He, his wife, acre (two-ha) property where Mary Dee Shepherd Evans, they could raise horses, cows, and their eight children have chickens, and sheep in order continued their missionary to help their children cultivate

122 Elder Richard G. Hinckley Elder Paul V. Johnson Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

raised, and continues to Amacher Johnson. He grew reside in Salt Lake City. As up in Logan, Utah, and mar- a mission president, he ried Leslie Jill Washburn in presided over the Utah Salt the Logan Utah Temple on Lake City Mission. August 18, 1976. With an economics Elder Johnson earned a degree from the University bachelor’s degree in zoology of Utah and an MBA from at Brigham Young University. Stanford University in He earned a master’s degree California, Elder Hinckley in counseling and guidance has been an executive or from BYU and a doctorate in equity partner or served on instructional technology from advisory boards for a number Utah State University. lder Richard Gordon of regional and national busi- n college Elder Paul Elder Johnson taught semi- Hinckley of the First ness ventures and organiza- Vere Johnson of the First nary for 12 years in Arizona EQuorum of the Seventy tions. He served a full-time I Quorum of the Seventy and Utah. He has since worked says his feelings about his call mission in Germany, and he was preparing for dental in a variety of curriculum as a member of the Seventy has traveled extensively. school and planned to take development and administra- are not that different from As a mission president, he over his father’s practice. tive positions in the Church how he felt as a shy deacon presided over missionaries He was also teaching Educational System in Salt assigned to collect fast offer- from 42 nations and 46 states at the language training mis- Lake City, including as adminis- ings or as a brand-new mis- in the United States. “We felt sion, the precursor to the trator of religious education. sion president. like it was an international Missionary Training Center. His years of working with “Collecting fast offerings mission,” he says. Of that Elder Johnson does not youth and young adults has was intimidating. But it was experience he says, “It gave remember a moment when taught him at least one thing: a great experience,” he says. me a tremendous confidence he knew dentistry was no the future of the Church is “Being called as a mission in the future of this Church.” longer in his future, but he bright. “The prophets talk president is something you Elder Hinckley has also does remember the reaction about this generation, and just can’t totally prepare for. served as a sealer in the Salt from two important people what they say is true. There I felt like the boat was going Lake Temple, stake president, when he told them seminary are extremely strong young to swamp for the first few counselor in two stake presi- teaching was in his future. people in the Church.” months. But then it was dencies, and bishop twice. He First was his father’s: “If I Prior to his call to the First wonderful.” was born on May 2, 1941, to had chosen something differ- Quorum, Elder Johnson Now as he approaches his Gordon Bitner and Marjorie ent, I would have become a served as an Area Seventy, new calling, Elder Hinckley Pay Hinckley. He and his wife, teacher.” counselor in a stake presi- says he feels overwhelmed Jane Freed Hinckley, were The second was his dency, stake high councilor, and inadequate. But he has married on July 28, 1967, in fiancée’s. She began to cry. bishop, and ward Young Men learned some things from his the Salt Lake Temple and She had secretly wanted to president. He served in the earlier service. “You just don’t have four children. ■ marry a seminary teacher Norway Oslo Mission. ■ say no to these callings. You because of a family she once learn that when you say yes, knew. She always loved the the Lord is going to help you feeling in their home. learn and grow. And along the Elder Johnson was born way you will be able to make in Gainesville, Florida, on some small contribution.” June 24, 1954, to Vere Hodges Elder Hinckley was born, Johnson and Winefred

MAY 2005 123 Elder Paul E. Koelliker Elder Paul B. Pieper Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

By then, Elder Koelliker was other countries of central back from his mission to Asia. At the time of his call, Berlin, Germany. He and Ann Elder Pieper was serving married in the Salt Lake as president of the Russia Temple on March 18, 1966. St. Petersburg Mission. “This Of his mission, he says, is the Lord’s Church,” Elder “We met with people who Pieper says. “He loves it. He had been thrust out of their wants it to spread throughout homes. The meaning of fam- the world.” ily became evident to me as In addition to crediting his we taught families whose par- parents and grandparents, ents were on the other side Elder Pieper credits his wife, of the Berlin Wall.” Melissa Tuttle Pieper—to t is no surprise that Elder Grateful for his opportuni- ecause Elder Paul whom he was married on Paul Edward Koelliker of ties to serve in the Church as Bowen Pieper of the November 7, 1979, in the Salt Ithe First Quorum of the a stake president and bishop, BFirst Quorum of the Lake Temple—and their six Seventy, as the father of seven Elder Koelliker acknowledges Seventy has spent much of children with having helped children and the former man- that those experiences helped his life working with develop- him develop as a worthy aging director of the Church’s prepare him for his work in ing units of the Church, he father and priesthood holder. Temple Department, believes the Temple Department. has a strong testimony of the Elder Pieper was born on that family is everything and “I love serving in the Lord’s guidance in the growth October 7, 1957, in Pocatello, that the temple is all about Temple Department,” says of the kingdom. Idaho, to Dee Meyers Pieper nurturing and sustaining the Elder Koelliker, who, with a “The Lord knows who and Norma Bowen Pieper. He family. degree in business adminis- and what is needed for the studied international relations “The Lord in His tender tration, has worked for the growth of His kingdom and at Brigham Young University, mercies has really blessed our Church in a variety of posi- prepares the way,” says Elder then completed his bachelor’s lives,” says Elder Koelliker. tions since 1966. “Sixty-nine Pieper. “He gives us the privi- degree in political science at “We have regular family gath- temples have been built since lege of participating if we have the University of Utah, where erings, and we go to the tem- I have been in this position. I willing hearts and minds.” he also received a law degree. ple. Our children have their have witnessed firsthand the When Elder Pieper served Elder Pieper worked as an grandfather’s gift for story- mind and energy of President as a branch president, a attorney and an international telling, and they keep us Gordon B. Hinckley. I believe prompting came to call a less- development consultant. laughing for hours.” his heart is with the work of active man as a counselor. He has served in a stake Born on March 12, 1943, the temples, and I sustain That man is now a stake presidency, on high councils, in Pittsburg, California, Elder him in this sacred trust. He president and has supported in branch presidencies, and as Koelliker is the oldest of five is a man for this season and the reestablishment of the a full-time missionary in the children born to Edward C. a resource of truth. My wit- Church in Nicaragua. Elder Mexico Monterrey Mission. ■ and Lois B. Olson Koelliker. ness of his prophetic call is Pieper has seen this pattern The family moved to Salt Lake strong.” ■ repeated in other countries City, Utah, in 1945. where he has served. Elder Koelliker attended For the past six years, high school with his future Elder Pieper and his family wife, Freda Ann Neilson, have lived in the former but they didn’t date until Soviet Union. They have wit- they were students at the nessed the emergence of the University of Utah in 1964. Church in Kazakhstan and

124 Elder Ulisses Soares Elder Won Yong Ko Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

obtain much-needed medical recently as an Area Seventy, care. “We were protected,” where he has been assigned Elder Soares testifies, “because as Second Counselor in the we went to church that day.” Asia North Area Presidency He has served in a variety since 2003. of capacities, including mis- Elder Ko and his wife, Eun sion president, stake presi- Hee Kim Ko, were married on dent, high councilor, and April 1, 1978, and sealed in the missionary in the Brazil Rio de Seoul Korea Temple. He says Janeiro Mission. He has also his wife and two children have earned an MBA and two bach- been an important support. elor’s degrees: business and He also credits the Savior for accounting, and economics. sustaining him through call- aith and obedience— Born to Apparecido and lmost since he joined ings and challenges. these two gospel Mercedes Carecho Soares on the Church in 1962, “He didn’t have to, but F principles have been October 2, 1958, in São Paulo, A Elder Won Yong Ko of Jesus Christ lowered Himself paramount in the life of Elder Brazil, Elder Soares learned the Second Quorum of the to a level that no one else Ulisses Soares of the First from them the importance of Seventy says he has struggled has experienced so He can Quorum of the Seventy. obeying the Lord’s command- to fill his suits. But his chal- understand our suffering, A native of São Paulo, ments. His sweetheart, lenges have not come from a challenges, and difficulties,” Brazil, Elder Soares and Rosana, was sealed to him in telestial tailor. says Elder Ko. “He is truly our his wife, Rosana Fernanda the São Paulo Brazil Temple “My callings have always Savior and Redeemer.” Morgado Soares, traveled on October 30, 1982, and they been bigger than my capacity,” Elder Ko says he must rely occasionally to the United have been blessed to raise he says. “Each calling seems to on the Savior as he steps into States for training as director three children. Their family be a bigger suit than I can fit this new role and tries to fit of temporal affairs for the resides in Bountiful, Utah. in. But I have always tried.” into another suit that seems Brazil South Area. Committed Elder Soares is ever grate- Elder Ko was born on to be too big. to attending church wherever ful for the blessings he has October 15, 1945, to Chang “I have not sought this they traveled, the Soareses received through obedience Soo Ko and Sang Soon Lee in call,” Elder Ko says. “It comes remember one Sunday a good and faith in our Heavenly Busan, Korea. Belonging to from the Lord, so He will help Samaritan friendshipped them Father and His Son, Jesus the Church in Korea in the me if I will serve ‘with an eye at church. Grateful for this Christ. “It’s just a wonder 1960s was not easy. There single to the glory of God’ instant friendship, Elder and to see how much we can were many misconceptions, (D&C 4:5). I love that phrase. Sister Soares realized an addi- progress through the Atone- often perpetuated by the That is my commitment. That tional blessing later that night ment. If we apply it with media. But Elder Ko learned is my testimony of the last when they needed his help faith,” he adds, “we will have that the Lord honors those 40-some years.” ■ again. An expectant mother, a happy life—forever.” ■ who honor Him. Being a Sister Soares miscarried. member of the Church Elder Soares tearfully helped him through a three- recalls: “I didn’t know any- year military assignment and body; I didn’t know the med- later as he advanced from sys- ical system. But the Lord tems engineer to president protected us.” Their new- and CEO. found friend proved to be Elder Ko has served as a the Lord’s answer to their stake president, a regional prayers, helping them to representative, and most

MAY 2005 125 Elder Wolfgang H. Paul Elder Lowell M. Snow Of the Seventy Of the Seventy

Switzerland Temple, and they only things I’m interested in raised their three children in are being those things.” the gospel. His focus to do Elder Snow was born what is right continues. on January 2, 1944, in St. Elder Paul has served as an George, Utah, to Rulon A. Area Seventy in the Europe and Marian M. Snow. He met Central Area. He graduated his future wife, Tamara Ann from the German Federal Means Snow, while both were Government Administration students at Brigham Young Academy and worked as a University. The couple was government officer. Recently married on September 8, retired, Elder Paul was also 1966, in the Los Angeles employed by the Church in California Temple. They have rowing up in Germany a number of managerial and ver the almost 10 years five children. as part of the only administrative positions in Elder Lowell Miller Elder Snow was serving as Gmember family in his Europe. OSnow of the Second an Area Seventy in the Utah town, Elder Wolfgang Heinz His Church experience Quorum of the Seventy has North Area prior to his call Jürgen Paul of the Second includes serving as Second served as a full-time mission- to serve as a member of the Quorum of the Seventy devel- Counselor in the Europe East ary, he has cultivated a testi- Seventy full-time. Elder Snow oped an ability to hold strong Area Presidency, regional rep- mony of the power of the graduated from BYU with a to a position and stand for it. resentative, mission presi- Atonement and the impor- degree in zoology and chem- While he served in the mil- dent, counselor in a stake tance of missionary work. istry. He earned a master’s itary, Elder Paul’s testimony presidency, stake Young Men “Every good thing I have degree in guidance and coun- was strengthened through president, bishop, high priests in my life is because of the seling from Wayne State a more intense study of the group leader, branch presi- Atonement,” Elder Snow says. University and a law degree Book of Mormon and prayer. dent, and elders quorum “That’s why I like missionary from the University of Utah. “After I received my own president. work so much. I want others He has worked as an attorney testimony, I put a maxim in In 1988, Elder Paul was to experience the same bless- and a business consultant. my life to always put the Lord called to serve as president ings I have received.” Elder Snow’s other first,” Elder Paul says. “I know of the Germany Hamburg He is grateful for those Church service includes area that when I put the Lord first, Mission. In March 1989 his who have blessed his life. executive secretary, Church the rest will fall into place.” call was changed, and he “When I was growing up, my hosting director, mission Elder Paul also says that served on the other side family taught and lived the president, stake and ward this increased testimony of the Berlin Wall until 1991 gospel,” Elder Snow says. Young Men president, coun- helped him focus on the as the first president of the “My wife is a convert to the selor in a stake presidency, things that were important Germany Dresden Mission. Church with a wonderful tes- bishop, bishop’s counselor, to him in life. He made a He was born on February 28, timony. Priesthood leaders branch president, and full- commitment to marry a young 1940, in Muenster, Germany, and teachers, older siblings, time missionary in the West woman who was a member of to Johann Paul and Berta bishops, mission presidents, German Mission. ■ the Church, raise his children Starbati Paul. ■ and stake presidents have all in the gospel, and focus on guided and lifted me.” the right things. Though Elder Snow has Elder Paul proved firm served in many callings, the in those commitments. He most important roles to him married Helga Klappert on are being a “dad, a husband, April 2, 1964, in the Bern and a disciple of Christ. The

126 Elder Paul K. Sybrowsky Cheryl C. Lant Of the Seventy Primary General President

serve missions. He attributes Born to Charles Verl a lot of their desire to serve and Vivian Keller Clark on to his wife’s commitment to January 30, 1944, she was having family prayer, scrip- raised in Provo, Utah. She ture study, dinner, and family attended Brigham Young home evening together. University and studied early Although Elder Sybrowsky childhood development. was raised in a less-active On September 17, 1963, she family, his testimony of the married her high school restored gospel has never sweetheart, John Glen Lant Jr., wavered. “I have always in the Salt Lake Temple. known that Christ lives. That Together they founded a gift of a testimony was given large preschool and devel- issionary work has to me at a very young age,” he 11th Primary general oped a successful phonics- always been a big part he says. “That testimony has president, Cheryl Clark based beginning reading Mof the life of Elder been strengthened through TLant, knows how to program. Paul Kay Sybrowsky of the many miracles and faith- work with children. “My “I love children,” she says. Second Quorum of the promoting experiences.” whole life has prepared me,” “Their hearts are tender, but Seventy. As a young man, Elder Sybrowsky was born she says, including her family, their spirits are strong.” Elder Sybrowsky served as in Salt Lake City on August 22, education, profession, and She believes that in teach- a missionary in the Great 1944, to Paul H. Sybrowsky previous Church callings. She ing children the gospel, one Canadian Mission from 1964 and Betty Ann Sybrowsky. says the Lord knows what He simply reminds them of truth to 1966. Last year he was He and his wife were married has in store for us and “leads that is already familiar to their released as mission president in the Salt Lake Temple on us throughout our life, if spirits. “Never underestimate of the Canada Toronto West May 15, 1968. we’re willing, through experi- the capacity of children to Mission. Even now, Elder He studied at Brigham ences that prepare us.” feel the Spirit and understand Sybrowsky’s love for mission- Young University, graduating Such preparation came spiritual things.” ary work is evident in the with a bachelor’s degree in partly through raising nine Sister Lant has served as a lives of his children. social science. He has worked children. “When our children member of the Primary gen- Elder Sybrowsky and his as an executive for several were young, we would tell eral board, stake and ward wife, Lynne Prior Sybrowsky, multinational information them fairy tales at bedtime,” Primary president, counselor are the parents of nine chil- services and software devel- Sister Lant says. The children in a stake Relief Society presi- dren. While two are still at opment companies and is would ask, “Is that story dency, ward Young Women home, seven have served or currently self-employed. true?” It didn’t take long for president, and Primary are currently serving a mission. Elder Sybrowsky has served the Lants to decide, “Let’s use teacher. She looks forward “I think if young men the Church as a stake presi- this time to teach our chil- to serving in an organization and women knew the value dent, counselor in a stake dren the truth” and share that seeks to “bless the lives of missionary service, they presidency, stake high coun- scripture stories instead. of children in such a way that would know that it is one of cilor, and bishop. ■ “When you tell a scripture they know they are children the most valuable things a story at bedtime, the next day of God.” ■ person can ever do,” Elder when a child is stretching his Sybrowsky says. “My first mis- wings a little and not wanting sion was an anchor in my life. to follow your counsel, you It was a foundation.” can say, ‘Do you want to be He says it has been “mar- like Nephi or Laman and velous” to see his children Lemuel?’ Children relate.”

MAY 2005 127 Margaret S. Lifferth Vicki F. Matsumori First Counselor, Primary General Presidency Second Counselor, Primary General Presidency

From the time she was her to recite any of them, but a young child, Sister Lifferth Sister Matsumori still treas- has had a testimony of prayer, ures the gospel knowledge reinforced by simple experi- she gained while she was in ences. Once, for example, her Primary. parents had gone to the tem- Her parents continued to ple, and young Margaret lay support her and her younger in bed, worried about their sister in Church attendance, safety because of the bad and they eventually joined weather. A cold had left her the Church when Sister coughing and even more Matsumori was in high school. resistant to sleep. “I remem- Sister Matsumori was born ber crawling out of bed, on December 15, 1950, in mother of seven, kneeling down, and praying ister Vicki Fujii Murray, Utah. She attended Margaret Swensen that I would stop coughing Matsumori went to Granite High School and later A Lifferth emphasizes and that my parents would SPrimary even before she graduated from the University that parents need to be pres- get home safely,” she says. was a member of the Church. of Utah with a BA in journal- ent for the small moments in Her coughing did stop, and Her parents wanted her to ism and English in 1973. She the lives of their children. She she was able to sleep peace- attend a church when she was also earned her teaching cer- recalls a time when one of fully. The next morning she a child, and their home in tificate and went on to teach her children, age four, came found that her parents had Murray, Utah, was close to a junior high school and to be crying into the house after a indeed arrived safely at home. meetinghouse of The Church an educator at other schools disagreement with his play- “Heavenly Father loves of Jesus Christ of Latter-day as well. mates. “I just pulled him onto children and will answer their Saints. On June 6, 1973, she mar- my lap and said, ‘What can we prayers and strengthen them “I always knew it was ried James Matsumori in the do?’ We figured out that he to meet the challenges of true,” says Sister Matsumori. Salt Lake Temple. They are could take a plate of cookies their day,” Sister Lifferth says. When she learned about the parents of two girls and to his friends, and the prob- “Primary helps children know tithing, she wanted to pay it. one boy. She says her calling lem was solved. how to claim that under- When she learned about fast- as mother is the calling that “It is the small moments standing as they keep the ing, she wanted to fast. When best prepared her for her call- like these that are really the commandments, make she was about to turn eight, ing as second counselor in teaching moments, that set covenants, and follow she wanted to be baptized. the Primary general presi- the example of how our chil- Heavenly Father’s plan.” However, when she asked dency. Other callings that dren are going to address the Sister Lifferth has served for permission to be baptized, have helped her prepare world,” she says. as a member of the Primary her parents, George Yasuyuki include Primary teacher, ward Sister Lifferth was born general board, counselor in Fujii and Yoshie Matsumoto Primary president, and Cub on March 30, 1947, in a stake Relief Society presi- Fujii, told her they wanted Scout leader. She also served Washington, D.C., to Jenny dency, and counselor in a her to know more about the on the Primary general board Romney Swensen and Albert ward Primary presidency. ■ church she was joining. Her for more than five years. ■ Swensen. She grew up in father knew a little about the Provo, Utah, and earned Church and told her that she her degree in English from should learn the Articles of Brigham Young University. Faith before the bishop inter- On August 16, 1968, she mar- viewed her for baptism. So ried Dennis Lifferth in the she did. Salt Lake Temple. The bishop did not ask

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Maid of Iowa, by Joseph Brickey The Prophet Joseph Smith welcomes British converts who traveled the Mississippi River from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Nauvoo, Illinois, aboard a steamboat named Maid of Iowa. Captained by an energetic Latter-day Saint Welshman, Dan Jones, Maid of Iowa served the Saints between 1842 and 1845. 4 02259 05000 1 25905 May 05 latter days.” inthese Christ restoredtoearth No, itwastheChurchofJesus Smith’s? Was itOliverCowdery’s? Church wasit?Was itJoseph came ofrevelation.Whose nameoftheChurch very “The Conference, April2–3,2005. at the175thAnnualGeneral President Gordon B.Hinckley 175 yearsagothisweek,”said of theChurchinyear1830, which ledtotheorganization ofrestoration of thepattern “How beautifulistheunfolding