NOVEMBER 2003 Liahona

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • NOVEMBER 2003 Liahona

General Conference Addresses by Glen S. Hopkinson by Glen S. The Journey Begins, England, to America, beginning in 1840. They eventually made their way to Nauvoo, Illinois, in at least 36 companies. More than 12,000 people joined the Church in the British Isles from 1837 to 1847. Nearly 5,000 of them sailed from Liverpool, THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • NOVEMBER 2003 Liahona

2 Conference Summary for the 173rd 37 Repentance and Change SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Semiannual General Conference Elder Dallin H. Oaks 85 We Believe All That God Has 41 Realize Your Full Potential Revealed SATURDAY MORNING SESSION Elder Richard G. Scott Elder L. Tom Perry 4 The State of the Church 89 An Enduring Testimony of the President Gordon B. Hinckley PRIESTHOOD SESSION Mission of the Prophet Joseph 8 A Sure Foundation 44 Personal Priesthood Responsibility Elder Henry B. Eyring Elder Sheldon F. Child Elder Russell M. Nelson 93 “Come, Follow Me” 10 The Atonement, Repentance, 47 Young Men—Holders of Keys Elder William W. Parmley and Dirty Linen Elder Monte J. Brough 95 Are You a Saint? Elder Lynn A. Mickelsen 50 Priesthood, Keys, and the Power Elder Quentin L. Cook 13 Seeing the Promises Afar Off to Bless 97 The Empowerment of Humility Anne C. Pingree Elder Merrill J. Bateman Bishop Richard C. Edgley 16 Let Our Voices Be Heard 53 The Phenomenon That Is You 99 How Choice a Seer! Elder M. Russell Ballard President James E. Faust Elder Neal A. Maxwell 19 Lord, I Believe; Help Thou 56 Bring Him Home 102 Let Us Live the Gospel More Fully Mine Unbelief President Thomas S. Monson President Gordon B. Hinckley President James E. Faust 60 The Shepherds of Israel President Gordon B. Hinckley GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 104 Choosing Charity: That Good Part 23 The Sustaining of Church Officers SUNDAY MORNING SESSION Bonnie D. Parkin President James E. Faust 67 The Bridge Builder 107 Testimonies: “Choose That Good 24 “The Standard of Truth Has Been President Thomas S. Monson Part” Erected” 70 The Grandeur of God 108 In Covenant with Him President Boyd K. Packer Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Kathleen H. Hughes 28 Receiving a Testimony of the 73 The Message of the Restoration 110 Choose Ye Therefore Christ the Lord Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ Elder Charles Didier Anne C. Pingree Elder Robert D. Hales 76 He Knows Us; He Loves Us 113 To the Women of the Church 32 The Clarion Call of Prophets Sydney S. Reynolds President Gordon B. Hinckley Elder Shirley D. Christensen 78 Three Choices 34 The Lord Thy God Will Hold Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin 64 General Authorities of The Church Thy Hand of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder W. Craig Zwick 82 An Ensign to the Nations, a Light to the World 116 They Spoke to Us President Gordon B. Hinckley 119 Instructional Resources 124 General Auxiliary Presidencies 124 News of the Church Invocation: Elder Cree-L Kofford. Conference Summary for the 173rd Benediction: Elder Douglas L. Callister. Music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Semiannual General Conference Craig Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; Bonnie Goodliffe and Linda Margetts, organ- SATURDAY MORNING, 4 OCTOBER 2003, SATURDAY EVENING, 4 OCTOBER 2003, ists: “From All That Dwell below the Skies,” GENERAL SESSION PRIESTHOOD SESSION Hymns, no. 90, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Presiding and conducting: President “Lead, Kindly Light,” Hymns, no. 97, arr. Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Gordon B. Hinckley. Invocation: Elder Wilberg, pub. Deseret Book, accompanied Invocation: Elder F. Melvin Hammond. William R. Bradford. Benediction: Elder by flute, oboe, harp, and organ; “How Firm a Benediction: Elder H. Aldridge Gillespie. H. Ross Workman. Music by a priesthood Foundation,” Hymns, no. 85; “My Shepherd Music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; choir from the Provo Missionary Training Will Supply My Need,” arr. Wilberg, unpub- Craig Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; Center; Douglas Brenchley, director; lished, accompanied by flute, oboe, harp, Richard Elliott and John Longhurst, organ- Clay Christiansen, organist: “Hark, All Ye and organ; “Come, Let Us Anew,” Hymns, ists: “Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise,” Hymns, Nations!” Hymns, no. 264; “I’ll Go Where no. 217, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. no. 41; “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” You Want Me to Go,” Hymns, no. 270; SATURDAY EVENING, 27 SEPTEMBER 2003, Hymns, no. 136; “We Thank Thee, O God, “Redeemer of Israel,” Hymns, no. 6; “Praise GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING for a Prophet,” Hymns, no. 19, arr. Wilberg, to the Man,” Hymns, no. 27, arr. Wilberg, Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. unpublished; “Come, Ye Children of the unpublished. Conducting: Bonnie D. Parkin. Invocation: Lord,” Hymns, no. 58; “I Saw a Mighty Judith F. Edwards. Benediction: Aileen S. Angel Fly,” Hymns, no. 15, arr. Wilberg, SUNDAY MORNING, 5 OCTOBER 2003, Figuerres. Music by a Relief Society choir unpublished; “A Child’s Prayer,” Children’s GENERAL SESSION from the Temple Square mission, Family Songbook, 12–13, arr. Perry, pub. Jackman; Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. History mission, and Brigham Young “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” Conducting: President James E. Faust. University; Vicki McMurray, director; Linda Hymns (1948), no. 70, arr. Wilberg, Invocation: Elder Angel Abrea. Benediction: Margetts, organist: “Lord, I Would Follow unpublished. Elder Keith Crockett. Music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Craig Jessop, director; John Thee,” Hymns, no. 220, arr. Hoffman, SATURDAY AFTERNOON, 4 OCTOBER 2003, Longhurst, organist: “Guide Us, O Thou unpublished; “Choose That Good Part,” GENERAL SESSION Great Jehovah,” Hymns, no. 83; “Sabbath Ashby and Johnson, unpublished, accompa- Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Day,” Hymns, no. 148, arr. Bradford, pub. nied by English horn and organ; “Precious Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Deseret Book; “I Feel My Savior’s Love,” Savior, Dear Redeemer,” Hymns, no. 103, Invocation: Elder D. Lee Tobler. Benediction: Children’s Songbook, 74–75, arr. Bradford, arr. Lund, pub. Jackman; “Our Savior’s Elder Keith K. Hilbig. Music by a single adult unpublished; “Now Let Us Rejoice,” Hymns, Love,” Hymns, no. 113. choir from the Utah South Area; James C. no. 3; “My Redeemer Lives,” Hymns, no. 135; CONFERENCE RECORDINGS AVAILABLE Kasen, director; Linda Margetts, organist: “O Divine Redeemer,” Gounod. Recordings of conference sessions are “Count Your Blessings,” Hymns, no. 241, arr. available in many languages at distribution Kasen, pub. Jackman; “Be Thou Humble,” SUNDAY AFTERNOON, 5 OCTOBER 2003, centers, generally within two months fol- Hymns, no. 130; “Let Us All Press On,” GENERAL SESSION lowing conference. Hymns, no. 243; “Come, Ye Disconsolate,” Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Conducting: President James E. Faust. Hymns, no. 115, arr. Kasen, pub. Jackman. CONFERENCE TALKS ON INTERNET To access general conference talks on the Internet in many languages, visit www.lds.org.

HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES For home and visiting teaching messages, please select an address that best meets the needs of those you visit.

ON THE COVER Photography by Matthew Reier.

CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY Scenes of general conference in Salt Lake City were taken by Craig Dimond, Welden C. Andersen, John Luke, Matthew Reier, Kelly Larsen, Christina Smith, Allexis Duce, Mark Hedengren, Natalie Simpson, and Jed Wells; in Guatemala by Virna Rodríguez; in Hawaii by Lawrence Kawasaki; in Japan by Takuji Okada and Osamu Sekiguchi; in Poland by Lawrence G. Lewis; and in South Africa by Michael Lerios.

2 Liahona

November 2003 Vol. 27 No. 11 LIAHONA 23991 Official international 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, David B. Haight, Neal A. Maxwell, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, Henry B. Eyring

Editor: Dennis B. Neuenschwander Advisers: E. Ray Bateman, Monte J. Brough, Jay E. Jensen, Stephen A. West Managing Director: David Frischknecht Planning and Editorial Director: Victor D. Cave Graphics Director: Allan R. Loyborg

Magazines Editorial Director: Richard M. Romney Managing Editor: Marvin K. Gardner Editorial Staff: Collette Nebeker Aune, Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, Linda Stahle Cooper, LaRene Porter Gaunt, Shanna Ghaznavi, Jenifer L. Greenwood, Lisa Ann Jackson, Carrie Kasten, Melvin Leavitt, Sally J. Odekirk, Adam C. Olson, Judith M. Paller, Rebecca M. Taylor, Roger Terry, Janet Thomas, Paul VanDenBerghe, Julie Wardell, Kimberly SPEAKERS LISTED IN TOPIC INDEX Obedience, 67, 85 Webb, Monica Weeks ALPHABETICAL ORDER Activation, 56 Patience, 41

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LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 3 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 4 October 2003 The State of the Church PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY

This is only the beginning. We have scarcely scratched the surface. We are engaged in a work for the souls of men and women everywhere.

have suffered drivings and every imaginable evil. And out of all of that has come something which today is glorious to behold. In the opening of this work the Lord declared: “Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the voice of him who dwells on high, and whose eyes are upon all men; yea, verily I say: Hearken ye people from afar; and ye that are upon the islands of the sea, listen together. “For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men, and there is none to escape; and there is no eye that shall not see, neither ear that shall not y beloved brethren and sis- hear, neither heart that shall not be ters throughout the world, penetrated. . . . Mwe send greetings in the “And the voice of warning shall be name of our Redeemer. We send our unto all people, by the mouths of my love and our blessing. I commend disciples, whom I have chosen in you most warmly on what you are these last days. have dreamed of this season of doing to move forward the work of “And they shall go forth and none opportunity in which we live? the Lord. shall stay them, for I the Lord have We now have strong congregations Now and again I quietly reflect on commanded them” (D&C 1:1–2, 4–5). in every state of the United States and the growth and impact of this work. I There can be no doubt concerning in every province of Canada. We have reflect on that meeting with a few our responsibility to the peoples of such in every state of Mexico, in every present in the Peter Whitmer farm- the earth. There can be no doubt that nation of Central America, and house on the 6th of April 1830. Here we are moving forward in pursuing throughout the nations of South the Church was organized, and here that responsibility. America. We have strong congrega- began the long march which has As I speak to you today, most tions in Australia and New Zealand brought it to its present stature. members of the Church, regardless of and the isles of the Pacific. We are well Our people have passed through where you live, can hear me. It is a established in the nations of the oppression and persecution; they miracle. Who in the earlier days could Orient. We are in every nation of

4 Members await the beginning of a session in the Conference Center.

Western Europe and in much of “These armies of young men—mis- “They live frugally, in private Eastern Europe, and we are firmly sionaries in the Church of Jesus Christ homes and apartments with compan- established in Africa. of Latter-day Saints—are strictly ion missionaries, rising at 6 a.m. to We are being recognized for the regimented while serving missions study and pray for guidance in the tremendous virtues of our programs around the globe. work they will do until long after the and the vast good which they do. “For two years, they spend 60 sun sets. . . . A California newspaper recently hours a week doing ecclesiastical “This life, they say, is a sacrifice— commented: “The white shirts, back- work, praying, studying, and telling and the most ‘fun’ they can imagine” packs and bicycles give them away, others about the Gospel that drove (Priscilla Nordyke Roden, “Answering even before you spot the Book of them to leave families, friends and the the Call,” San Bernardino County Mormon. comfort of home behind. Sun, 26 Aug. 2003, p. B1). “They’re stereotyped, for good “Contact with their loved ones is That might have been written of reason. limited to letters and two calls a year. our missionaries in the more than

NOVEMBER 2003 5 current with the growing need for loans. To date the Church has granted about 10,000 loans to young men and women in Latin America, Asia, Africa, and other areas of the Church. These young people have committed to repay their loans so that others may enjoy the same opportunities they are experiencing. Many have graduated and are experiencing the benefits of their training. To date about 600 young men and women have completed their training. The majority of these have found good employment. Many more will graduate and enter the workforce in their own communities in the months ahead. They will make their mark in the world, rear families, and serve the Church. Many are already achieving these objectives. For example, Patrick was the first Perpetual Education Fund student to 120 nations in which they are found Children’s Fund, the World Health complete school in Jamaica. His basic serving. Organization, and the Pan American training in management earned him a What a miracle it is that we should Health Organization in an effort to well-paying job at the national airport, have some 60,000 of them, most of immunize 200 million children and with a promising future. Repayment them young, giving of their time and prevent 1.2 million deaths from of his loan began immediately. their testimonies to the world. measles over the next five years. Flavia, a sister from a poorer part of I recently met with a group of mis- Our contribution alone will provide South America, found little opportu- sionaries who were to be released the vaccine for three million children. nity and means for training and regu- next day to return home. They were What a marvelous and wonderful lar employment until help came from various nations across the earth, thing that is. And so it is with each of through the PEF to receive training in from Mongolia to Madagascar. They our humanitarian programs. operating computers. With the help of were clean and bright and enthusias- One more item. LDS Employment Services, she found tic. They bespoke love for the In March 2001, we announced that work in a good company after com- Church, for their mission president, the Church was establishing a plan to pleting her training. She reports: for their companions. What a mar- assist our returned missionaries and “Today I am responsible for the finan- velous thing is this unique and other young adults in gaining educa- cial consulting area of one of the tremendous program of the Church. tion and training leading to better largest hospitals in Recife using [a Likewise other programs. employment opportunities in coun- sophisticated] computer system. I was We recently were applauded in the tries with less abundance and fewer among the crew that implemented public press for giving three million opportunities. this financial system in the company.” dollars to vaccinate children against We invited those who wished to These examples could be multi- measles in Africa. This money did help in this plan to contribute to plied. We are happy to report that the not come from tithing. It came from a fund called the Perpetual Educa- plan is working well and gradually contributions of the faithful to the tion Fund, patterned after the 19th- expanding as we gain experience. humanitarian work of the Church. We century Perpetual Emigration Fund. Early reports of loan repayments are have joined the American Red Cross, I offer a brief report on what is hap- encouraging. Again, we thank you for the United Nations Foundation, the pening with that plan. your generosity, interest, and prayers Centers for Disease Control and Because of your generous contri- in behalf of the Perpetual Education Prevention, the United Nations butions, we have been able to keep Fund.

6 It was said that at one time the sun undertaking. We are men who hold even the Lord Jesus Christ, amen. never set on the British Empire. That the priesthood of the living God. Now we have a special treat. I empire has now been diminished. But Those who have gone before have would like to ask Brother David B. it is true that the sun never sets on accomplished wonders. It is our oppor- Haight to come to the pulpit. Here is this work of the Lord as it is touching tunity and our challenge to continue in a grand old warrior. He is 97 years of the lives of people across the earth. this great undertaking, the future of age. He has lived longer than any And this is only the beginning. We which we can scarcely imagine. other Apostle in the history of this have scarcely scratched the surface. Thank you, my brothers and sis- dispensation. He recently became ill We are engaged in a work for the ters, for your faith and faithfulness. and has had a little difficulty. But he souls of men and women everywhere. Thank you for the love you carry for wanted to come this morning and just Our work knows no boundaries. this, the work of the Almighty. We live wave to you with a feeling of gratitude Under the providence of the Lord it in the world. We work in the world. and appreciation for you and the will continue. Those nations now But we must rise above the world as great love which he feels for you. And closed to us will someday be open. we pursue the work of the Lord and to him, dear friend, we say, God bless That is my faith. That is my belief. seek to build His kingdom in the you and heal you. We love you, we That is my testimony. earth. Let us now join together in a sustain you, we pray for you. May The little stone which was cut out great world conference of men and heaven’s blessings rest upon you, of the mountain without hands is women who are indeed brothers and dear Brother Haight. Thank you. rolling forth to fill the earth (see sisters as children of God. Elder Haight: Thank you. Daniel 2:31–45; D&C 65:2). During the next two days we shall President Hinckley: Do you want To the Latter-day Saints every- hear from many of our number, not to wave to these people? where, as we gather in this great con- one of whom has been told what Elder Haight: Yes, I must. I am ference I say, may God bless you. Keep to speak about, but each one of waving. Thank you, thank you. Nice the faith; be true to your covenants. whom has pleaded with the Lord to to be with you. Walk in the light of the gospel. Build be able to say something that will President Hinckley: Thank you. the kingdom of God in the earth. help, inspire, and lift all who hear. Elder Haight: Thank you. The Church is in wonderful condi- May the blessings of heaven attend President Hinckley: We will excuse tion and can and will improve. It will you. May you be faithful and true to him now. He will be watching on tele- grow and strengthen. the great and glorious cause which vision. What a great soldier he has We are ordinary people who you have embraced is my humble been in the army of the Lord. Thank are engaged in an extraordinary prayer, in the name of our Redeemer, you so much, Brother Haight. ■

NOVEMBER 2003 7 “And I said unto him: Then ye do not understand them; for they truly A Sure Foundation testify of Christ. Behold, I say unto you that none of the prophets have ELDER SHELDON F. CHILD written, nor prophesied, save they Of the Seventy have spoken concerning this Christ. “And this is not all . . . ; it also has been made manifest unto me by the Our testimonies . . . must be built on a sure foundation, power of the Holy Ghost.”2 deeply rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jacob points out three sources of truth—the scriptures, the prophets, and the Holy Ghost—that testify of Christ. They will help us build “upon nourishment. The trees he had lost the rock of our Redeemer, who is were planted near a small stream, Christ, the Son of God.”3 where nourishment was readily available. The roots were shallow. They 1. The Scriptures were not anchored deeply enough to The Savior Himself said, “Search the protect them from the storm. scriptures; . . . they are they which tes- Our testimonies, like those trees, tify of me.”4 When the Lord directed must be built on a sure foundation, Lehi to take his family and flee into the deeply rooted in the gospel of Jesus wilderness, He knew they would need Christ, so that when the winds and a strong foundation upon which to rains come into our lives, as they build in the new land. So important surely will, we will be strong enough were the scriptures that, in order to to weather the storms that rage about obtain the records, the voice of the us. Helaman counseled his sons: Spirit directed Nephi to slay Laban, say- “And now, my sons, remember, ing, “It is better that one man should remember that it is upon the rock of perish than that a nation should dwin- our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son dle and perish in unbelief.”5 everal years ago a severe storm of God, that ye must build your foun- About this same time in history, the hit the area in which we were dation; that when the devil shall send Lord led another group of people out Sliving. It began with a torrential forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts of Jerusalem to the promised land. downpour, followed by a devastating in the whirlwind, yea, when all his Many generations later, King Mosiah easterly wind. When the storm was hail and his mighty storm shall beat discovered their descendants. They over, damages were assessed—power upon you, it shall have no power over were known as the people of lines were down, property had been you to drag you down to the gulf of Zarahemla. Their spiritual condition damaged, and many of the beautiful misery and endless wo, because of was poor. In Omni we read, “Their trees that grew in the area had been the rock upon which ye are built, language had become corrupted; and uprooted. A few days later I was talk- which is a sure foundation, a founda- they had brought no records with ing to a friend who had lost several of tion whereon if men build they can- them; and they denied the being of the trees in his yard. The trees on one not fall.”1 their Creator.”6 Without scriptures, side of his home were standing In the Book of Mormon the not only nations perish, but families straight and tall. They had weathered prophet Jacob, in his encounter with and individuals dwindle in unbelief. the storm well, while the trees that Sherem the anti-Christ, asked this Daily scripture study helps us to were in what I considered the prime question: “Deniest thou the Christ anchor our faith in Christ. They truly spot on his property had not been who shall come? And he said: If there testify of Him. able to withstand the heavy winds. should be a Christ, I would not deny He pointed out to me that the trees him; but I know that there is no Christ, 2. The Prophets that survived the storm were planted neither has been, nor ever will be. Several years ago I was assigned to on firm ground; their roots had to “And I said unto him: Believest reorganize a stake presidency. At the sink deep into the soil to receive thou the scriptures? And he said, Yea. Sunday session of the conference, the

8 wife of the newly called stake president related this story. She stated that she had been raised in a good Christian home. Her parents gathered their family together every day to read and study the Bible. As they read about the prophets of old, she asked her parents why there were no prophets on the earth today. They didn’t have an answer that satisfied her, nor did her teachers or her religious leaders. One day, as a university student, she noticed two young men wearing white shirts and ties. She could read the name “Jesus Christ” on the black name tags they wore. She spoke to them and asked if they were ministers. “Yes, we are! We are missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” “Then may I ask you a question?” she said. “Does the Lord love the people today as much as He loved the people of olden times?” “Yes, He does!” was their reply. “Then why do we not have prophets on the earth today?” Can you imagine the excitement of two young missionaries being asked a question like that? They said, “We do. We do have prophets on the earth today. Can we tell you about them?” Our message to the world is the same: “We do have prophets on the sisters, if God loves us enough to then given the gift of the Holy Ghost. earth today.” This very afternoon, we send us prophets, then we need to If we live righteously and remain will raise our hands to sustain love Him enough to follow them. worthy, we are promised His con- President Gordon B. Hinckley, his Following the prophets will help stant companionship; He will guide counselors, and the Quorum of the protect us against the storms of life our lives, teach us truths, and testify Twelve as prophets, seers, and reve- and lead us to Christ. to us that Jesus is the Christ. As lators. They are special witnesses of covenant members of the Lord’s the name of Jesus Christ. In the doc- 3. The Holy Ghost Church, we promise to serve Him ument “The Living Christ: The When Christ met with His Apostles and keep His commandments “that Testimony of the Apostles,” they in the upper room prior to His he may pour out his Spirit more state: “We bear testimony, as His Crucifixion, He said: “If ye love me, abundantly upon [us].”9 duly ordained Apostles—that Jesus keep my commandments. And I will In West Africa, where we are cur- is the Living Christ, the immortal pray the Father, and he shall give you rently serving, we feel His Spirit being Son of God. . . . He is the light, the another Comforter, that he may abide poured out in rich abundance upon life, and the hope of the world. His with you for ever.”8 the faithful Saints. In 1989 a storm hit way is the path that leads to happi- When hands are laid upon our Ghana—not a storm of wind or rain, ness in this life and eternal life in heads following baptism, we are con- but a storm of persecution, slander, the world to come.”7 Brothers and firmed members of His Church and and misunderstandings. It was a trying

NOVEMBER 2003 9 time; the Church was new there. All of our non-African missionaries were required to leave the country. Our The Atonement, meetinghouses were locked and guarded so that they could not be used by the members. The Saints could not gather together, so they wor- Repentance, shiped as families in their own homes. Some members were arrested and even imprisoned. This period of time and Dirty Linen is referred to as “the freeze.” Members had little contact or support from the ELDER LYNN A. MICKELSEN outside Church, but they were not left Of the Seventy on their own to weather the storm. They had the scriptures and the words of the prophets; they put their trust The promise of the Lord is that He will cleanse our garments and faith in the Lord, and He poured with His blood. . . . He can redeem us from our personal fall. out His Spirit upon them. One member of the Church said: “We had the Spirit of the Lord with us; we could feel Him guiding and directing us. We adage “Do not wash your dirty linen drew closer to one another, and we in public” is wise counsel. It is not drew nearer to the Savior.” necessary, appropriate, nor healthy to For 18 months the Saints fasted and expose our private or family mistakes prayed for the day when the freeze and sins for public scrutiny. The more would end. In November of 1990, the widely a sin is known, the more diffi- ban was lifted. The worst of the storm cult the repentance or change. had passed, but it had taken its toll. This is not to say that sin should be There were those who had fallen away. covered, although that is the natural Their roots had been shallow and impulse of anyone who commits a their foundation weak. The founda- sin. Rather than repent, we want to tion of the Church in Ghana today is hide any mistakes or sins committed. built on the faith of those who weath- But as Cain discovered when he killed ered the storm. They were deeply Abel, he could not hide his sins from rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. the Lord,1 for all things are present Brothers and sisters, the scriptures, before Him.2 He knows of every dis- the living prophets, and the Holy obedient act we commit, but—differ- Ghost all testify of Christ. They will hile driving through a small ent from the general public—He, with help us build on “a sure foundation, a town in Mexico, a man ran His knowledge of our sins, gives the foundation whereon if men build they over and killed a dog that specific promise that He will remem- 10 W 3 cannot fall.” Of this I humbly testify, darted in front of him. From that day ber them no more if we repent. in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ on, he was known in the village as Washing dirty linen and repentance mataperros. No consideration or are intrinsically linked. Sin brings an NOTES thought was given to the origin of the uncleanliness before the Lord that 1. Helaman 5:12. name; he was simply the “dog killer.” must be reconciled. There is, how- 2. Jacob 7:9–12. 3. Helaman 5:12. For those who came along later, not ever, a time and a place for confession 4. John 5:39. knowing the circumstance, their and asking forgiveness. The scope of 5. 1 Nephi 4:13. 6. Omni 1:17. minds conjured up a terrible image those parameters depends on the 7. “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the of what he had done. nature and the magnitude of the sin. Apostles,” Liahona and Ensign, Apr. 2000, 3. Reputations built on rumor, reality, Where there has been a public 8. John 14:15–16. 9. Mosiah 18:10. or established by nickname can be vir- offense or a violation of public trust, 10. Helaman 5:12. tually impossible to overcome. The the responsibility would be to air that

10 Three visitors look out at the waterfall on the front of the Conference Center. wrongdoing in public and ask forgive- knowing how to handle the problem, Third, if necessary, go to our judge ness. The span of our responsibility in he took them before King Mosiah, but in Israel. repentance is to the Lord, His ser- the king remanded them to Alma’s And fourth, then put it away. vants, and those we have offended. judgment. Another side of exposing dirty linen There is a parallel between our gar- Fearing to do wrong in the sight of is the carnal, insatiable appetite that ments being washed clean through God, Alma poured out his whole soul some have to expose the faults of oth- the blood of the Lamb and how we to God and pled with Him for answers ers. The Lord challenged Job as he wash our own dirty linen. It is through as to how to handle the transgressors. was chafing under his burden: “Wilt His atoning sacrifice that our garments Because of Alma’s great love for his fel- thou condemn me, that thou mayest will be cleansed. The scriptural refer- lowman and his fervent desire to do be righteous?”8 This can happen even ence to garments encompasses our God’s will, the Lord blessed him might- in the family, when one, supposing he whole being. The need for cleansing ily, even with a promise of eternal life. is protecting his own good name, comes as we become soiled through Then the Lord explained to him why exposes in elaborate detail the faults sin. The judgment and forgiving are his pleading for understanding in judg- and mistakes of his siblings, his chil- the Savior’s prerogative, for only He ment was so important, saying: “This is dren, or his parents in a form of self- can forgive and wash away our sins.4 my Church. It is my name through justification designed to alleviate his When King Benjamin gave his great which they will be saved. It is through personal pain. sermon in the land of Zarahemla,5 the my sacrifice. It is I who will judge.”7 In the parable of the prodigal son, Saints changed their hearts,6 and there How often do we forget who has the prodigal was reclaimed by a faith- was peace and prosperity throughout the right to judge? Forgiveness of sin ful father who spoke of his son’s the land. Time went by, and Alma was depends on Him, not on us. So the worth, not of his faults. called to preside over the Church. next time we are tempted to hang Whenever we tell of others’ sins Caught up in their prosperity, some of dirty linen in public, let us remember: or mistakes, we are in effect passing the members of the Church fell into First, go to the Lord. judgment on them. I heard a man tell sin. Alma’s heart was troubled when Second, go to the one we have his son that an individual would never they were brought before him. Not offended. work for him again because he felt

NOVEMBER 2003 11 Empathy is not sympathy but understanding and caring. It is the basis of true friendship. Empathy leads to respect and opens the door to teaching and learning. The Sioux Indians understand this great principle as they pray, “Great Spirit, help me to never judge another until I have walked for two weeks in his moccasins.” So what should we do with dirty linen? The process begins with repentance. The Savior stands at the door and knocks; He is ready to receive us immediately.12 Our responsibility is to do the work of repentance. We must abandon our sins so the cleansing can begin. The promise of the Lord is that the individual had charged him 2. We must forgive. Although we He will cleanse our garments with His unfairly. The boy responded, “I’m sur- may have been personally wounded, blood.13 He gave His life and suffered prised to hear you say that, Dad, for the Lord said, “I, the Lord, will forgive for all our sins. He can redeem us you have taught us differently.” whom I will forgive, but of you it is from our personal fall. Through the The father was judging without required to forgive all men.”11 Atonement of the Savior, giving basis. What should he have done? If 3. Forget. A relentless memory can Himself as the ransom for our sins, he had questions about the charges canker the most resilient spirit. Leave He authorizes the Holy Ghost to for the work, he should have dis- it alone; lay it down; put it away. cleanse us in a baptism of fire. As the cussed them with the man, resolved If the wave of temptation to reveal Holy Ghost dwells in us, His purifying their differences, and laid it to rest others’ sins comes over you, don’t tell presence burns out the filthiness of without grousing to others. The your neighbor or even your best sin. As soon as the commitment is Savior taught: “Judge not, that ye be friend. Go to your bishop. Leave the made, the cleansing process begins. not judged. For with what judgment burden with him. If it is required, Our commitment to the Lord ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with report it to the civil or criminal begins with our focus on Him. We what measure ye mete, it shall be authorities and then leave it alone. I were recently in a stake conference measured to you again.”9 believe that to receive the precious in Nauvoo, Illinois. The choir music When the scribes and Pharisees promise that Alma received requires was exceptional. The director, who is brought the woman taken in adultery the same spirit and action he took a professional musician and teaches to Jesus, He stooped and wrote with regarding his, and others’, dirty linen. at a local university, was a master at His finger in the sand that others But what if we are right and they captivating the choir and congrega- might not see nor hear. Then He said, are wrong? Shouldn’t we make our tion. Every movement of his body “He that is without sin among you, let position public so others will not was intrinsically linked to the music. him first cast a stone.” When her judge us to have made the mistake? We wanted to sing exactly as he was accusers had all squirmed away in The Lord has been clear in His instruc- leading. All eyes were on him. I their sins, He said to the woman, “Go, tion regarding this dilemma. It is not thought of the Savior. He has chal- and sin no more.”10 our prerogative to judge. The mote is lenged us to be as He is. If we would What should we do when we have not ours to measure, for the beam in give Him the rapt attention we were knowledge of others’ problems? our own eye obstructs our capacity to giving Brother Nelson, we would 1. Don’t judge. Leave judgment to see. There is no pancake so thin it has quickly be transformed into the the Lord, the perfect judge. Let us only one side. Empathy is required Savior’s image. not examine or explore others’ sins here, the gift to feel what others feel The transformation as we were but look to their divinity. It is not and to understand what others are singing was momentary. We were ours to delve into others’ problems experiencing. Empathy is the natural where we needed to be, and all had a but rather to perceive the breadth of outgrowth of charity. It stimulates great desire to follow. If we find our- their goodness. and enhances our capacity to serve. selves in the places we should be,

12 with the fervent desire to follow the Lord, He will touch our lives and cleanse us that we may live in His Seeing the presence permanently. There was no coercion by the director to get us to sing, just connection. Real repentance comes with that connection to the Promises Afar Off Savior. Let us consider our personal prayers and everyday thoughts. We all ANNE C. PINGREE have work to do to make the connec- Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency tion the Lord requires. I asked Brother Nelson how he Faith, the spiritual ability to be persuaded of promises could draw so much out of us. He that are seen “afar off” . . . , is a sure measure of those humbly replied, “Because their hearts are pure.” who truly believe. “What else?” I asked. He answered, “It is through the Spirit. That is the only way we can communicate at that level.” could we call, for telephones were So where should our focus be? rare in that part of West Africa. So “And if your eye be single to my glory, these committed African Saints gath- your whole bodies shall be filled with ered early in the morning to wait light, and there shall be no darkness in all day if necessary for their temple you; and that body which is filled with recommend interviews. When we light comprehendeth all things.”14 arrived, I noticed among those wait- That can happen if we take responsi- ing in the searing heat were two bility for our dirty linen through Relief Society sisters dressed in bold- repentance and make sure it is clean. patterned wrappers, white blouses, May we enjoy the Savior’s promise and the traditional African head-ties. through Moroni to “arise . . . and put Many hours later, after all the inter- on thy beautiful garments. . . . Come views were completed, as my husband unto Christ . . . and love God with all and I drove back along that sandy jun- your might, mind and strength, . . . gle trail, we were stunned when we that by his grace ye may be perfect in saw these two sisters still walking. We Christ; . . . through the shedding of realized they had trekked from their the blood of Christ, which is in the will never forget a sauna-hot day in village—a distance of 18 miles round covenant of the Father unto the the lush rain forest of southeastern trip—just to obtain a temple recom- remission of your sins, that ye Nigeria. My husband and I had mend they knew they would never 15 I become holy, without spot.” In the traveled to one of the most remote have the privilege of using. name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ locations in our mission so he could These Nigerian Saints believed the NOTES conduct temple recommend inter- counsel of President Howard W. 1. See Genesis 4:9–10; Moses 5:34–35. views with members in the Ikot Eyo Hunter: “It would please the Lord for 2. See Moses 1:6. 3. See D&C 58:42. district. Some in this growing district every adult member to be worthy of— 4. See Alma 5:21–27; D&C 64:10. had been Church members less than and to carry—a current temple recom- 5. See Mosiah 2–5. two years. All the members lived 3,000 mend, even if proximity to a temple 6. See Mosiah 5:2. 7. See Mosiah 26:10–24. miles away from the nearest temple in does not allow immediate or frequent 8. Job 40:8. Johannesburg, South Africa. None had use of it.”1 In her hand, carefully 9. Matthew 7:1–2. 10. John 8:7, 11. received their temple endowment. wrapped in a clean handkerchief, each 11. D&C 64:10; emphasis added. These members knew the appointed sister carried her precious temple rec- 12. See Revelation 3:20. day each month we would come to ommend. I carry their examples of 13. See Revelation 7:14. 14. D&C 88:67. their district, but even we didn’t know faith carefully wrapped in my heart. 15. Moroni 10:31–33. the exact hour we would arrive; nor These two covenant Relief Society

NOVEMBER 2003 13 Two sisters in Nigeria photographed by Sister Anne C. Pingree make a round-trip trek of 18 miles (29 km) to obtain temple recommends they might never be able to use.

sisters embody the meaning of Alma’s thou wilt thou shall have all of the I believe she would have cherished. teaching “concerning faith—faith is desires of thine heart.”6 Laura’s faithful life bears witness of not to have a perfect knowledge of Laura and her husband knew the this verse from Hebrews: “These all things; therefore if ye have faith ye Prophet Joseph Smith. On one occa- died in faith, not having received the hope for things which are not seen, sion, the Prophet and his brother promises, but having seen them afar which are true.”2 Hyrum came running to their farm off, and were persuaded of them, and Faith is the most personal reflec- outside Far West, Missouri, where embraced them, and confessed that tion of adoration for—and devotion Laura hid them behind the clothes they were strangers and pilgrims on to—our Heavenly Father and His Only curtain. She calmly faced the mob the earth.”7 Faith lived in Laura, and Begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Anchored leaders who rushed in shortly after- Laura lived her faith. by this first and all-important princi- wards in search of the Prophet. I love my great-great-aunt Laura ple of the gospel, we look to our Laura experienced the joys and pri- and carry her example in my heart. Savior, knowing “Jesus [is] the author vations of the early Church members She, like those Relief Society sisters and finisher of our faith.”3 in this dispensation. Her faith deep- in Nigeria, reminds me “all things are My great-great-aunt, Laura Clark ened as she was driven from her possible to [them] that [believe].”8 Phelps, was the first member of the homes and separated from her hus- Faith, the spiritual ability to be per- Clark family who joined the Church. band on various occasions. As an effi- suaded of promises that are seen “afar She was a woman who uniquely cient midwife, she worked and off” but that may not be attained in demonstrated a faith in the Lord that traveled day and night in all kinds of this life, is a sure measure of those stands fast, nothing wavering.4 weather to help provide for her family. who truly believe. Elder Bruce R. Laura’s legacy teaches much about This overexertion and exposure took McConkie expressed this truth in the doctrine of faith as “the substance their toll. She died at the young age of these words: “Faith in its full and pure of things hoped for, the evidence of 34, leaving behind her husband and form requires an unshakable assur- things not seen.”5 She received her five children. She did not live to see ance and . . . absolute confidence that patriarchal blessing from Joseph her children, her grandchildren, or [God] will hear our pleas and grant Smith Sr. In it she was counseled to her great-grandchildren following her our petitions”9 in His own due time. be faithful and she would have an in faith. She did not experience the Believing that, we too can “stand fast inheritance in Zion. She was further blessings of receiving her own temple in the faith”10 today and tomorrow. told to “call upon God in faith, and if endowment in this earth life, blessings It matters not where we live or what

14 President Gordon B. Hinckley (center), President Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency (left), and President James E. Faust, Second Counselor, sing with the congregation during a conference session. our individual circumstances may be. other West African Saints on that Just as surely as the sisters knew— Each day our righteous living can remarkable day in April 2000 when who walked along that sandy jungle demonstrate a faith in Jesus Christ that President Gordon B. Hinckley said, trail—I know that God lives. He loves sees beyond mortal heartaches, disap- “We announce at this conference that each of us on every continent and pointments, and unfulfilled promises. we hope to build a house of the Lord desires to bless us one by one. I know It is a glorious thing to possess a faith in Aba, Nigeria.”12 Brothers and that our faith in Jesus Christ can sus- that enables us to look forward to that sisters, I testify that sometimes tain us each day as we “do all things day “when all that was promised the “miracles . . . confirm . . . faith.”13 The that lie in our power,” knowing with Saints will be given.”11 temples of Africa are a magnificent the “utmost assurance”14 that those As they walked with faith in every representation of miracles wrought promises we may see “afar off” will footstep along that sandy jungle trail by the faith of so many Saints in the one day bring all the blessings we in West Africa, those valiant Nigerian small villages and large cities spread hope for. In the name of Jesus Christ, sisters could not have imagined that across that vast continent. amen. ■ the walls of a holy temple of God I am deeply grateful that I have NOTES would one day rise in their own seen the faith that brought two pio- 1. “A Temple-Motivated People,” Liahona, nation. They could not have imagined neers in Africa many miles to a tem- May 1995, 5; Ensign, Feb. 1995, 5. 2. Alma 32:21; emphasis added. that the inspired words of another ple recommend interview. I rejoice 3. Hebrews 12:2. prophet of God, President Gordon B. that the temple in progress in Nigeria 4. See 1 Corinthians 16:13; James 1:6. Hinckley, would bring the promised will bring these women, their fami- 5. Hebrews 11:1. 6. Morris Calvin Phelps, Life History of blessings they hoped for and had lies, and thousands more the oppor- Laura Clark (Archives of The Church of seen “afar off.” They only knew that tunity to use their recommends as Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, n.d.), the Lord restored His gospel in these both a symbol and embodiment of microfilm, 3. 7. Hebrews 11:13. times, that a testimony of that gospel their faith. 8. Mark 9:23. burned in their hearts, that faith lit Sometimes those blessings in our 9. A New Witness for the Articles of Faith (1985), 187. their way in life. Then they acted on a lives that we have yet to receive lie 10. 1 Corinthians 16:13. prophet’s counsel to be worthy and beyond the scope of mortal eyes. I tes- 11. “Now Let Us Rejoice,” Hymns, no. 3. to carry a temple recommend. tify that it is always faith that allows us 12. “A Time of New Beginnings,” Liahona, July 2000, 107; Ensign, May 2000, 87. My husband and I tenderly to see “afar off” with spiritual vision all 13. Bible Dictionary, “Faith,” 669. recalled these sisters and so many that God intends for His children. 14. D&C 123:17.

NOVEMBER 2003 15 before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring Let Our Voices upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.”1 One such prophet was Malachi, who Be Heard admonished parents to turn their hearts to their children and children ELDER M. RUSSELL BALLARD to their parents, lest the whole earth Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles be cursed (see Malachi 4:6). To these warnings, ancient as the Let us speak out and encourage a more uplifting, inspiring, Old Testament and current as the and acceptable media. proclamation on the family, I add my own voice of warning, specifically concerning today’s media and the powerful negative effect it can have on families and on family life. that can trap our children and endan- Because of its sheer size, media ger all of us. today presents vast and sharply con- Church leaders have the responsi- trasting options. Opposite from its bility to speak out on moral issues harmful and permissive side, media and to counsel individuals and fami- offers much that is positive and pro- lies. The family is the basic unit of ductive. Television offers history chan- society; it is the basic unit of eternity. nels, discovery channels, education Thus, when forces threaten the family, channels. One can still find movies Church leaders must respond. and TV comedies and dramas that The family is at the heart of entertain and uplift and accurately Heavenly Father’s plan because we depict the consequences of right and are all part of His family and because wrong. The Internet can be a fabulous mortality is our opportunity to form tool of information and communica- our own families and to assume the tion, and there is an unlimited supply role of parents. It is within our fami- of good music in the world. Thus our lies that we learn unconditional love, biggest challenge is to choose wisely which can come to us and draw us what we listen to and what we watch. he fall of the year is when televi- very close to God’s love. It is within As the prophet Lehi said, because sion airs its season premieres families that values are taught and of Christ and His Atonement, we are Tand introduces its new shows. A character is built. Father and mother “free forever, knowing good from friend told me that there are 37 new are callings from which we will never evil,” able to act for ourselves rather TV series being inaugurated this fall. be released, and there is no more than be acted upon, “free to choose As he has read the reviews, he has important stewardship than the liberty and eternal life . . . or to found few if any of them that he responsibility we have for God’s spirit choose captivity and death” (2 Nephi would want his children to watch. children who come into our families. 2:26–27). Most of the sitcoms, dramas, and real- Within this context of the preemi- The choices we make in media can ity shows contain immorality, vio- nent importance of families and the be symbolic of the choices we make lence, and subtle ridicule of tra- threats families face today, it is not in life. Choosing the trendy, the titil- ditional values and traditional fami- surprising that the First Presidency lating, the tawdry in the TV programs lies. Each year the new shows seem and the Quorum of the Twelve or movies we watch can cause us to to get worse, pushing the envelope Apostles used strong words in the end up, if we’re not careful, choosing of what the public will accept. What proclamation to the world on fami- the same things in the lives we live. comes out of Hollywood, off the lies: “We warn that individuals . . . If we do not make good choices, Internet, and in much of today’s who fail to fulfill family responsibili- the media can devastate our families music creates a web of decadence ties will one day stand accountable and pull our children away from the

16 narrow gospel path. In the virtual real- and women of all cultures and are neither virtuous, nor lovely, nor of ity and the perceived reality of large faiths who also seek that which is good report, nor praiseworthy. and small screens, family-destructive “virtuous, lovely, or of good report or The time has come when members viewpoints and behavior are regularly praiseworthy.” of the Church need to speak out and portrayed as pleasurable, as stylish, as But we live in the “perilous times” join with the many other concerned exciting, and as normal. Often media’s to which the Apostle Paul referred people in opposition to the offensive, most devastating attacks on family when he warned about our day as one destructive, and mean-spirited media are not direct or frontal or openly when “men shall be lovers of their influence that is sweeping over the immoral. Intelligent evil is too cunning own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, earth. for that, knowing that most people blasphemers, disobedient to parents, According to the Kaiser Family still profess belief in family and in tra- unthankful, unholy, without natural Foundation, the percentage of televi- ditional values. Rather the attacks are affection, . . . false accusers, . . . despis- sion prime-time shows with sexual subtle and amoral—issues of right ers of those that are good, . . . heady, content jumped from 67 percent in and wrong don’t even come up. highminded, lovers of pleasures more 1998 to 75 percent in the year 2000.2 Immorality and sexual innuendo are than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:1–4). Media with this kind of content has everywhere, causing some to believe Conspiring men and women, numerous negative effects. It fosters a that because everyone is doing it, it intent on gain rather than goodness, callous attitude toward women, who must be all right. This pernicious evil “stir up the people” to “all manner of are often portrayed as objects of is not out in the street somewhere; it . . . wickedness” (see Alma 11:20), abuse and not as precious daughters is coming right into our homes, right preventing the noble uses to which of God who are essential to His eter- into the heart of our families. the media could be employed. nal plan. The long-cherished values of To be strong and happy, families The new morality preached from abstinence from intimate relation- need to be nourished by the truths the media’s pulpit is nothing more ships before marriage and complete depicted in the thirteenth article of than the old immorality. It attacks reli- fidelity between husband and wife faith—by a belief “in being honest, gion. It undermines the family. It turns after marriage are denigrated and true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and virtue into vice and vice into virtue. It derided. Children and youth are con- in doing good to all men.” Gratefully, assaults the senses and batters the fused and misled by the deviant there are many like-minded men soul with messages and images that behavior they see demonstrated by

NOVEMBER 2003 17 so-called stars they admire and want friends who share our concerns, we to emulate. In the moral confusion can send a clear message to those created by the media, enduring values responsible. The Internet Web sites are being abandoned. and their local affiliates will have their We see a rapid increase in cyber- addresses. Letters and e-mails have porn, involving sexual addiction over more effect than most people realize, the Internet. Some become so especially those like one sent by a addicted to viewing Internet pornog- Relief Society sister that stated, “I rep- raphy and participating in dangerous resent a group of over a hundred online chat rooms that they ignore women that meets every week and their marriage covenants and family often talks about the harm your pro- obligations and often put their gram is doing to our children.” employment at risk. Many run afoul of Of course the most basic way to the law. Others develop a tolerance to protest negative-impact media is sim- their perverted behavior, taking ever ply not to watch it, see it, read it, or more risks to feed their immoral play it. We should teach our family addiction. Marriages crumble and members to follow the First relationships fail, as addicts often lose Presidency’s counsel to young peo- everything of real, eternal value. ple. From the For the Strength of According to one social observer: Youth pamphlet, their instruction “Television . . . has replaced the family, about it from a diabolically tactical regarding entertainment and the the school, and the church—in that point of view, fighting the family makes media is very clear: order—as the principal [instrument] sense to Satan. When he wants to dis- “Do not attend, view, or partici- for socialization and transmission of rupt the work of the Lord, he doesn’t pate in entertainment that is vulgar, values. . . . Greed, debauchery, vio- poison the world’s peanut butter sup- immoral, violent, or pornographic in lence, unlimited self-gratification, ply, thus bringing the Church’s mis- any way. Do not participate in enter- absence of moral restraint . . . are the sionary system to its collective knees. tainment that in any way presents daily fare glamorously dished up to He doesn’t send a plague of laryngitis immorality or violent behavior as our children.”3 to afflict the Mormon Tabernacle acceptable. . . . We must be concerned with the Choir. He doesn’t legislate against “Have the courage to walk out of a violent and sexually charged lyrics of green Jell-O and casseroles. When evil movie or video party, turn off a com- much of today’s popular music and wants to strike out and disrupt the puter or television, change a radio sta- the relatively new “art form” of the essence of God’s work, it attacks the tion, or put down a magazine if what music video. According to industry family. It does so by attempting to dis- is being presented does not meet observers, 40 percent of the music regard the law of chastity, to confuse Heavenly Father’s standards. Do video audience is under the age of gender, to desensitize violence, to these things even if others do not.”7 18.4 One study reports that approxi- make crude and blasphemous lan- Brothers and sisters, refuse to be mately three-fourths of all the music guage the norm, and to make immoral used. Refuse to be manipulated. videos that tell a story utilize sexual and deviant behavior seem like the Refuse to support those programs imagery, and nearly half involve vio- rule rather than the exception. that violate traditional family values. lence.5 And the fashion trends We need to remember Edmund We may be a small voice to begin spawned in their images are about as Burke’s statement: “The only thing with; nevertheless, let us speak out far away from being “virtuous, lovely, necessary for the triumph of evil is for and encourage a more uplifting, or of good report or praiseworthy” as good men to do nothing.”6 We need inspiring, and acceptable media. you can get. Ours surely is a time to raise our voices with other con- Besides making our voices heard, when men “call evil good, and good cerned citizens throughout the world let me conclude with seven things evil” (Isaiah 5:20). in opposition to current trends. We that every parent can do to minimize Let me say again that the family is need to tell the sponsors of offensive the negative effect media can have on the main target of evil’s attack and media that we have had enough. We our families: must therefore be the main point of need to support programs and prod- 1. We need to hold family councils our protection and defense. As I said ucts that are positive and uplifting. and decide what our media standards once before, when you stop and think Joining together with neighbors and are going to be.

18 2. We need to spend enough qual- ity time with our children that we are consistently the main influence in Lord, I Believe; their lives, not the media or any peer group. 3. We need to make good media choices ourselves and set good exam- Help Thou ples for our children. 4. We need to limit the amount of time our children watch TV or play Mine Unbelief video games or use the Internet each day. Virtual reality must not become PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST their reality. Second Counselor in the First Presidency 5. We need to use Internet filters and TV programming locks to prevent our children from “chancing upon” Sustaining faith can be the ultimate comfort in life. things they should not see. All of us must find our own testimonies. 6. We need to have TVs and computers in a much-used common room in the home, not in a bedroom or a private place. truth, and knowledge, almost every- 7. We need to take time to watch one has—at one time or another— appropriate media with our children some private questions. That is part and discuss with them how to make of the learning process. choices that will uplift and build Sustaining faith can be the ultimate rather than degrade and destroy. comfort in life. All of us must find our May God bless us with courage own testimonies. and wisdom in doing what each one A testimony begins with the of us can to help turn the tide in the acceptance by faith of the divine mis- media away from darkness toward sion of Jesus Christ, the head of this truth and light. And may God bless Church; and the prophet of the our families to be strong and true to Restoration, Joseph Smith. The the principles of the gospel is my gospel as restored by Joseph Smith is humble prayer, in the name of Jesus either true or it is not. To receive all of Christ, amen. ■ the promised blessings we must accept the gospel in faith and in full. NOTES 1. “The Family: A Proclamation to the However, this certain faith does not World,” Liahona, Oct. 1998, 24; Ensign, his morning I would like to bear usually come all at once. We learn Nov. 1995, 102. a humble testimony to those spiritually line upon line and precept 2. See Dale Kunkel and others, Sex on TV 2003: A Biennial Report to the Kaiser Twho have personal struggles upon precept. Family Foundation (2003), 40. and doubts concerning the divine Joseph Hamstead, a lecturer at 3. Zbigniew Brzezinski, “Weak Ramparts of mission of The Church of Jesus Christ London University, had talked about the Permissive West,” in Nathan P. Gardels, ed., At Century’s End: Great Minds Reflect of Latter-day Saints. Many of us are at the Church and its youth and family on Our Times (1995), 53. times like the father who asked the programs to fellow lecturers at that 4. See National Institute on Media and the Family, “Fact Sheet,” Internet, Savior to heal his child with the great university. One of them said: “I http://www.mediafamily.org/facts/facts_mtv. “dumb spirit.” The father of the child like all of this, what is being done for shtml. cried out, “Lord, I believe; help thou families, etc. If you could take out that 5. See Barry L. Sherman and Joseph R. 1 Dominick, “Violence and Sex in Music and mine unbelief.” To all those with lin- bit about an angel appearing to Videos: TV and Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Journal of gering doubts and questions, there Joseph Smith, I could belong to your Communication, Winter 1986, 79–93. are ways to help your unbelief. In the church.” Brother Hamstead replied, 6. Attributed in John Bartlett, comp., Familiar Quotations, 15th ed. (1980), ix. process of accepting and rejecting “Ah, but if you take away the angel 7. For the Strength of Youth (2001), 17, 19. information in the search for light, appearing to the Prophet Joseph,

NOVEMBER 2003 19 However, there are two indispensable elements. One must “ask with a sincere heart, with real intent,” and then God “will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”4 Strong evidence besides the Book of Mormon corroborates the claims of Joseph Smith. To begin with, the Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses, who handled the plates and saw the engravings, testified that the Book of Mormon was translated by the power of God. Members of Joseph Smith’s family, who knew him best, also accepted and believed his message. Among the believers were his parents, his brothers and his sisters, and his uncle John Smith. His older brother Hyrum proved his complete faith in Joseph’s work by giving his life along with Joseph. These reliable witnesses all confirm the Prophet’s testimony. His closest associates were absolute in their belief in Joseph Smith’s divine mission. Two of them, Willard Richards and John Taylor, were with Joseph and Hyrum when they were killed. Joseph asked Willard Richards if he would be willing to go then I couldn’t belong to the Church for not believing my history. If I had with them. Willard unequivocally said: because that is its foundation.”2 not experienced what I have, I would “Brother Joseph you did not ask me Like the professor at London not have believed it myself.”3 to cross the river with you—you did University, many people see the sheer No one was with the boy Joseph not ask me to come to Carthage—you wonder of this Church and are per- Smith in the Sacred Grove in Palmyra, did not ask me to come to jail with suaded that it has great merit and New York, when God the Father and you—and do you think I would for- substance. They appreciate what His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared. Yet sake you now? But I will tell you what the Church can do for its believers. even those who do not believe it hap- I will do; if you are condemned to be However, they lack the spiritual confir- pened may find it difficult to explain hung for treason, I will be hung in mation that Joseph Smith actually saw away. Too much has happened since your stead, and you shall go free.”5 in vision the Father and the Son and it occurred to deny that it ever took John Taylor testified, “Joseph that an angel delivered to Joseph place. Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Smith the plates from which the Book For those of you who, like the bibli- Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, of Mormon was translated. Coming to cal father, say, “I believe; help thou for the salvation of men in this world, know God is the principal spiritual gift mine unbelief,” you can have a confir- than any other man that ever lived in that can come to any man or woman. mation by following the direction of it.”6 The pragmatic Brigham Young Joseph Smith received this knowledge the Book of Mormon, which chal- said, “I feel like shouting Hallelujah, of God firsthand. Many years later, still lenges us to ask “God, the Eternal all the time, when I think that I ever pondering the impact of that and Father, in the name of Christ,” regard- knew Joseph Smith, the Prophet other happenings in his life, Joseph ing the truth that can only come by whom the Lord raised up and himself said: “I don’t blame any one faith in Christ and by revelation. ordained, and to whom he gave keys

20 and power to build up the Kingdom of God on earth and sustain it.”7 In my opinion, these strong, intelligent men could not have been deceived. It is also very persuasive to me that no other religion claims to have the keys to bind family relationships eternally. President Hinckley said, “Every temple, be it large or small, old or new, is an expression of our testimony that life beyond the grave is as real and certain as is mortality.”8 Those who cherish their family have a compelling reason to claim the transcen- dent blessing of being sealed for eternity in the temples of God. For all grandparents, parents, husbands, wives, children, and grandchildren, this sealing power and authority is a include human frailties and the unconverted?” She began to read the crowning principle, a pinnacle in the imperfections of others; something Book of Mormon even though she restoration “of all things”9 through in the history of the Church they doubted its worth and found it bor- the Prophet Joseph Smith. Sealings cannot understand; changes in pro- ing. Then a friend challenged her. She bind forever. This blessing can be cedures resulting from growth and said, “You say you believe in prayer. extended to those now living and also continuous revelation; indifference; Well, why don’t you pray about it?” vicariously for those who have died, or transgression. This she did, and after she had thus binding families for eternity.10 At one time the Lord said that He prayed, she began to read the Book of Another powerful evidence of the was “well pleased” with Joseph Mormon again. It was no longer bor- divinity of this holy work is the Wakefield.14 He was stalwart and faith- ing. The more she read, the more remarkable growth and strength of ful and taught hundreds about the fascinated she became with it and this Church worldwide. It is a unique prophetic work of Joseph Smith. But thought, “Joseph Smith couldn’t have institution. Nothing quite compares from 1833 to 1834 he was influenced written that—these words were from to it. As Gamaliel reasoned when by some dissidents in Kirtland. He was God!” She finished reading it and won- Peter and the early Apostles were tes- once in the home of Joseph Smith. dered how God would tell her that it tifying of the divinity of Jesus Christ: Joseph came out of the room where was true. She said: “A power strong, “If this . . . work be of men, it will he had been translating the word of beautiful, and joyful moved completely come to nought: But if it be of God, God and immediately began to play through my body. . . . I knew that Jesus ye cannot overthrow it.”11 with some children. “This convinced Christ was resurrected, . . . that Joseph This all being true, however, every [Brother Wakefield] that [Joseph] was Smith was a prophet who saw God person must have a spiritual confirma- not a man of God and that [therefore] and Jesus Christ. I knew that he mirac- tion by the power of the Holy Ghost, the work was false.”15 In due course ulously translated ancient records with which is more powerful than all the Joseph Wakefield apostatized, was God’s guidance. I knew that Joseph senses combined. To those who say, excommunicated, and became a perse- Smith received revelations from God.” “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbe- cutor of the Church and of the Saints. It changed her life because now she lief,” may I suggest that “you look for- One inactive member was jolted too was a convert!16 ward with an eye of faith.”12 To those into the realization that she was not For those whose faith has faded, who do this, the Lord has promised, converted to the Church when her the reasons may be real to them, but “I will tell you in your mind and in son went on a mission. Comparing these reasons do not change the real- your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which herself to others whose impressive ity of what Joseph Smith restored. The shall come upon you and which shall conversion stories she had heard, Prophet Joseph Smith said, “I never dwell in your heart.”13 she asked herself, “Why are these told you I was perfect; but there is no Some reasons people give when people converted so powerfully, and error in the revelations which I have the fire of their faith flickers and dies I, with my pioneer heritage, remain taught.”17 One cannot successfully

NOVEMBER 2003 21 will be dispelled. I testify that if you continue in the purposeful process of searching for and accepting spiritual light, truth, and knowledge, it will surely come. By going forward in faith, you will find that your faith will increase. Like a good seed, if it is not cast out by your unbelief, it will swell within your breast.22 I believe that every person’s individual testimony of Jesus as the Christ comes as a spiritual gift. No one can successfully dispute or challenge it because it is so personal a gift to the one to whom it has been given. It will be as an ever-recharging spiritual energizer to keep our spiritual light running to show us the way Members sustain Church leaders during the Saturday afternoon session of conference. to eternal happiness. But I testify that it can be more—much, much attack true principles or doctrine, Joseph Smith for the many great reve- more. By covenanting with “God to because they are eternal. The revela- lations which came through him. He do his will, and to be obedient to his tions that came through the Prophet was without peer in restoring spiritual commandments in all things that he Joseph Smith are still correct! It is a knowledge.19 There has been a fulfill- shall command us, all the remainder mistake to let distractions, slights, or ment of the revelation given to Joseph of our days,” our “hearts are changed offenses pull down our own house Smith in March 1839: through faith on [Christ’s] name.” of faith. “The ends of the earth shall Thus we may be “born of him and We can have a certain testimony inquire after thy name, and fools shall . . . become his sons and his daugh- that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of have thee in derision, and hell shall ters.”23 I have a certain knowledge of God, and Redeemer of mankind, and rage against thee; this, which I declare in the sacred that Joseph Smith was a prophet “While the pure in heart, and the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ commissioned to restore the Church wise, and the noble, and the virtuous, NOTES in our day and time without having a shall seek counsel, and authority, and 1. Mark 9:17, 24. complete understanding of all blessings constantly from under thy 2. Personal correspondence. 3. History of the Church, 6:317. 20 gospel principles. But when you pick hand.” 4. Moroni 10:4–5; emphasis added. up a stick you pick up both ends. To those who believe but wish 5. History of the Church, 6:616. 6. D&C 135:3. And so it is with the gospel. As mem- their belief to be strengthened, I urge 7. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: bers of the Church we need to you to walk in faith and trust in God. Brigham Young (1997), 98. accept all of it. Even limited spiritual Spiritual knowledge always requires 8. “This Peaceful House of God,” Ensign, May 1993, 74. assurance of some of the aspects of an exercise of faith. We acquire a testi- 9. Acts 3:21. the gospel is a blessing, and in time mony of the principles of the gospel 10. See D&C 110:15–16. the other elements of which you are by obediently trying to live them. Said 11. Acts 5:38–39. 12. Alma 5:15. uncertain can come through faith the Savior, “If any man will do his will, 13. D&C 8:2. and obedience. he shall know of the doctrine.”21 A 14. D&C 50:37. The gap between what is popular testimony of the efficacy of prayer 15. George A. Smith, Deseret News, 20 Jan. 1858, 364. and what is righteous is widening. As comes through humble and sincere 16. See Grace Jorgensen, “Every Member a prophesied by Isaiah, many today “call prayer. A testimony of tithing comes Convert,” Ensign, Apr. 1980, 70–71. 18 17. History of the Church, 6:366. evil good, and good evil.” Revelations by paying tithing. Do not let your 18. Isaiah 5:20. from the prophets of God are not like private doubts separate you from 19. See D&C 135:3. offerings at the cafeteria, some to be the divine source of knowledge. 20. D&C 122:1–2. 21. John 7:17. selected and others disregarded. We Prayerfully go forward, humbly seek- 22. See Alma 32:28. are greatly indebted to the Prophet ing eternal light, and your unbelief 23. Mosiah 5:5, 7.

22 SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 4 October 2003

Liang, Emmanuel O. Opare Sr., Alain A. Petion, Claudio D. Signorelli, The Sustaining R. Lloyd Smith, Tomás Valdés, Chung Hei (Patrick) Wong. Those who wish to join in an expression of appreciation, please of Church Officers indicate by the uplifted hand. It is proposed that we release with PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST a vote of thanks Elders Glenn L. Pace Second Counselor in the First Presidency and Spencer J. Condie as counselors in the Young Men general presidency. All in favor, please signify by the uplifted hand. Apostles; Boyd Kenneth Packer as It is proposed that we sustain Acting President of the Quorum of José A. Castro, William K. Jackson, the Twelve Apostles; and the follow- Paul V. Johnson, and Jay L. Sitterud ing as members of that quorum: as Area Authority Seventies. Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, David B. All in favor, please manifest it. Haight, Neal A. Maxwell, Russell M. Any opposed. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell It is proposed that we sustain Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Elders Lynn G. Robbins and Donald L. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Hallstrom as counselors in the Young Holland, and Henry B. Eyring. Men general presidency. Those in favor, please manifest it. All in favor, please manifest it. Any opposed. Any opposed. It is proposed that we sustain the It is proposed that we sustain counselors in the First Presidency and the other General Authorities, Area the Twelve Apostles as prophets, Authority Seventies, and general seers, and revelators. auxiliary presidencies as presently All in favor, please manifest it. constituted. y brothers and sisters, Contrary, if there be any, by the Those in favor, please manifest it. President Hinckley has same sign. Those opposed may manifest it. Mrequested that I now present With gratitude for their service as It appears that the sustaining has to you the General Authorities, Area members of the First Quorum of the been unanimous in the affirmative. Authority Seventies, and general auxil- Seventy, we extend an honorable Thank you, brothers and sisters, iary presidencies of the Church for release to Elders Angel Abrea, for your faith and prayers. ■ your sustaining vote. William R. Bradford, and Cree-L It is proposed that we sustain Kofford and designate them as Gordon Bitner Hinckley as prophet, emeritus General Authorities. seer, and revelator and President of All who wish to join with us in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- doing so, please manifest it. day Saints; Thomas Spencer Monson We extend an honorable release as First Counselor in the First to Elders Duane B. Gerrard, J. Kent Presidency; and James Esdras Faust Jolley, and D. Lee Tobler as members as Second Counselor in the First of the Second Quorum of the Seventy Presidency. and to the following as Area Authority Those in favor may manifest it. Seventies: Henry F. Acebedo, Blair S. Those opposed, if any, may mani- Bennett, Craig A. Bullock, Raimondo fest it. Castellani, Christopher N. Chukwurah, It is proposed that we sustain Lawrence R. Fuller, Rubén G. Gápiz, Thomas Spencer Monson as Presi- Harvey L. Gardner, Francisco G. dent of the Quorum of the Twelve Giménez, John A. Grinceri, Shih An

NOVEMBER 2003 23 of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remis- “The Standard sion of sins.”7 A companion ordinance, confirmation and the conferral of the gift of the Holy Ghost, required a greater authority.8 of Truth Has Been Soon thereafter, Peter, James, and John, Apostle companions of the Lord, restored the higher or Erected” Melchizedek Priesthood9—“the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son 10 PRESIDENT BOYD K. PACKER of God.” Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The Restoration did not come all at once. In a series of visitations, other prophets came to restore the keys of However out of step we may seem, however much the the priesthood.11 standards are belittled, however much others yield, With the authority restored, the we will not yield, we cannot yield. organization was revealed. Apostles were ordained, and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and First Presidency were organized as they had been anciently.12 The ordinances You will understand better if I were revealed and authority given to speak of scripture and doctrine rather perform them. than about behavior. The Book of Mormon: Another The Church you belong to, The Testament of Jesus Christ was trans- Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day lated and published. In it is “the ful- Saints, is the restored Church.3 When ness of [the] everlasting gospel.”13 you know what restored means, you Other revelations were published— will understand why standards of con- the Doctrine and Covenants and the duct are as they are. Pearl of Great Price. From those books Following the Crucifixion of Christ of scripture, we learned why the earth an apostasy occurred. Leaders began was created and who created it.14 to “teach for doctrines the command- There was opened to the early leaders ments of men.”4 They lost the keys of of the Church the fulness of the gospel authority and closed themselves off of Jesus Christ and the standards He from the channels of revelation. That requires of His disciples. lost authority could not just be repos- We learned about the plan of sessed. It had to be restored by those redemption—“the great plan of hap- t is my purpose to explain to the who held the keys of authority piness.”15 We came to earth to be youth and young adults, and to anciently.5 tested and to gain experience, with a Itheir parents, why we hold so The Church of Jesus Christ of promise that “through the Atonement rigidly to high standards of moral con- Latter-day Saints is not a remodeled of Christ, all mankind may be saved, duct; why we avoid addictive drugs version of another church. It is not by obedience to the laws and ordi- and tea, coffee, alcohol, and tobacco; an adjustment or a correction or a nances of the Gospel.”16 why we teach standards of modesty in protest against any other church. Before we came into mortal life, dress, grooming, and speech.1 You They have their “form of godliness”6 we lived as spirit children of our need to know where our standards and their goodness and value. Father in Heaven.17 “All human came from and why we cannot loosen John the Baptist returned through beings—male and female—are cre- up and follow what the world does. the veil to confer the Aaronic Priest- ated in the image of God. Each [of You have agency—“moral agency.”2 hood, “which holds the keys of you] is a beloved spirit son or daugh- You are free to choose your standards. the ministering of angels, and ter of heavenly parents, and, as such,

24 [you have] a divine nature and destiny. Gender [male and female] is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.”18 The great plan of happiness enables family relationships to last beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants, available only in the temple, make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally. Marriage, the family, and the home are the foundation of the Church.19 Nothing is more important to the Church and to civilization itself than the family! For some all is not complete in mortal life, for marriage and a family of their own have passed them by. But the I do not wish to offend the delicate capture your thoughts and control great plan of happiness and the laws feelings of you wonderful young what you do. If he can, he will cor- which govern it continue after death. people, but in your world awash with rupt anything that is good.25 To him Watched over by a kind and loving iniquity, you must be on guard. the Internet is just that—a net to Heavenly Father, they will not, in the There are words we would rather ensnare you into wicked addiction eternal pattern of things, be denied not say. They describe things that we with pornography. Unhappiness will blessings necessary for their exaltation, would rather not think about. But you follow.26 including marriage and family. And it are inescapably exposed to tempta- Some work through political, will be sweeter still because of the wait- tions in connection with fornication, social, and legal channels to redefine ing and the longing. adultery, pornography, prostitution, morality and marriage into something We learned from the revelations perversion, lust, abuse, the unnatural, unrestrained, unnatural, and forbid- that we do not have to tell you young and all that grows from them. den. But they never can change the people what is right and what is Only with difficulty can you escape design which has governed human wrong with regard to morality and the degrading profanity and wicked, life and happiness from the begin- marriage. The prophet Lehi taught his joking humor that accompanies them. ning. The deceiver preys upon some youthful children that “men are It is all paraded before you in unwor- passion or tendency or weakness. He instructed sufficiently that they know thy entertainment—music, print, convinces them that the condition good from evil.”20 drama, film, television, and, of course, cannot be changed and recruits them Because the power to create a mor- the Internet. for activities for which they never tal body is essential to our happiness Remember the First Vision when would volunteer. and exaltation, the Lord has decreed young Joseph knelt in the grove. But sooner or later that spark of severe penalties against the immoral Immediately thick darkness gath- divinity in each of them will ignite. use of that power to beget life.21 ered around him. He was seized by They can assert their agency as sons Satan knows that if he can corrupt the power of the enemy, an actual and daughters created in the image of the process of mating and cause men being from the unseen world. He God27 and renounce the destroyer. and women to degrade it in immoral did what every one of you can do. That which they had been led to acts, he will, to that degree, for them He called upon God, and the evil believe could not be changed, will be disrupt the plan of happiness. power left him.23 changed, and they will feel the power Paul taught, “God . . . will not suf- There is great power in prayer. As a of the redemption of Christ.28 Their fer you to be tempted above that ye son or a daughter of God, you can, as burden will be lifted and the pain are able; but will with the temptation Joseph did, pray to God in the name healed up.29 That is what the also make a way to escape, that ye of Jesus Christ for strength.24 Atonement of Christ is all about. may be able to bear it.”22 Satan, with his angels, will try to They can claim their inheritance as

NOVEMBER 2003 25 children of heavenly parents and, The Holy Ghost can guide you away old-fashioned morality. You choose to despite the tortured, agonizing test of from evil and bring you back if you be a worthy husband or wife, a wor- mortal life, know that they are not lost. have wandered and lost your path. thy parent. In the Church, one is not con- Never forget that you are sons and The whole Church may stand demned for tendencies or tempta- daughters of God. Satan cannot for- alone in defense of these standards. tions. One is held accountable for ever imprison you. You always hold But we are not the first. Moroni, the transgression.30 If you do not act on the key of repentance to unlock the last of his people, said: “I even remain unworthy persuasions, you will nei- prison door. alone. . . . I fulfil the commandment ther be condemned nor be subject to If you, our youth, feel alone, of my father.”32 Do not be afraid.33 Church discipline. remember there are millions of you in When I was young and very new in We do not set the standards, but the Church now. Tens of thousands of my calling, I was sent east to meet we are commanded to teach them you at this moment serve missions. with powerful, prominent officials and maintain them. The standard You are a visible example, a testimony who were blocking our work. As I left remains abstinence before mar- of the Restoration, even to those for the airport, I stopped to see riage and total fidelity in marriage. who will not listen to your message. President Harold B. Lee and asked, However out of step we may seem, Wherever you are—in school, at work “Do you have any parting counsel?” however much the standards are or play, in the military—you are never “Yes,” he said, “just remember belittled, however much others yield, alone. this isn’t 1830, and there aren’t just we will not yield, we cannot yield. Now words can be used as six of us.” Obedience to the moral standard and weapons against you. If they throw That erased fear. I pled our cause. observance of the Word of Wisdom the word diversity at you, grab hold The problem was resolved. will remain as requirements for ordi- of it and say, “I am already diverse, Society is on a course that has nation to the priesthood, for a mis- and I intend to stay diverse.” If the caused the destruction of civilizations sion, and for a temple recommend. word is tolerance, grab that one, too, and is now ripening in iniquity. You had conferred upon you the saying, “I expect you to be tolerant of Civilization itself is at stake. You, gift of the Holy Ghost. There will be my lifestyle—obedience, integrity, our wonderful youth, are an example whisperings of approval or warning abstinence, repentance.” If the word to untold millions of good people when you have decisions to make.31 is choice, tell them you choose good, worldwide.

26 I think of the joy and happiness that await you in this life and the work you are to do, and I cannot be discouraged. Peter, the Apostle who stood next to the Lord, said of you, “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.”34 Remember this great prophecy: “The Standard of Truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; . . . the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done.”35 When we were young we used to Of the kingdom of our Lord, 9. See D&C 27:12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:72. often sing these words: With the faithful ones redeemed 10. D&C 107:3. Who have loved and kept his word. 11. See D&C 110. Shall the youth of Zion falter Yes! 12. See D&C 18:9; 20:1–2; 107:22, 29. 13. D&C 27:5. In defending truth and right? 14. See Moses 1:30–39. While the enemy assaileth, True to the faith that our parents 15. Alma 42:8; see also 2 Nephi 11:5; Alma Shall we shrink or shun the fight? No! have cherished, 12:25; 17:16; 34:9; 41:2; 42:5, 11–13, 15, 31; D&C 101:22; Moses 6:62. True to the truth for which martyrs 16. Articles of Faith 1:3. True to the faith that our parents have perished, 17. See Numbers 16:22; Ecclesiastes 12:7; have cherished, To God’s command, Soul, heart, Hebrews 12:9. 18. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” True to the truth for which martyrs and hand, Liahona, Oct. 1998, 24; Ensign, Nov. 1995, have perished, Faithful and true we will ever stand.36 102. 19. See “The Family: A Proclamation to the To God’s command, Soul, heart, World,” Liahona, Oct. 1998, 24; Ensign, and hand, God bless you millions of youth in Nov. 1995, 102. Faithful and true we will ever stand. our Church who worthily follow the 20. 2 Nephi 2:5. 21. See Jacob 3:12; D&C 42:24; 104:8–9. patterns of the gospel and have 22. 1 Corinthians 10:13. While we know the pow’rs of within you a deep testimony—the tes- 23. See Joseph Smith—History 1:15–16. darkness timony that all of us share and bear. In 24. See James 4:7. ■ 25. See D&C 10:22; see also Luke 22:3; 2 Nephi Seek to thwart the work of God, the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 2:17–18, 27; 3 Nephi 18:18; D&C 50:3. Shall the children of the promise 26. See Alma 41:10. Cease to grasp the iron rod? No! . . . NOTES 27. See Genesis 1:26–27; Moses 2:26–27; 6:9; 1. See For the Strength of Youth: Fulfilling Abraham 4:26–27. Our Duty to God (pamphlet, 2001). 28. See 2 Nephi 2:1–6. We will work out our salvation; 2. D&C 101:78. 29. See Alma 7:11–12. We will cleave unto the truth; 3. See D&C 115:4. 30. See D&C 101:78; Articles of Faith 1:2. 4. Joseph Smith—History 1:19; see also 31. See D&C 8:2–3; 9:7–9. We will watch and pray and labor Matthew 15:9. 32. Mormon 8:3. With the fervent zeal of youth. Yes! . . . 5. See D&C 27:12–13. 33. See 2 Timothy 1:7; D&C 68:6. 6. Joseph Smith—History 1:19. 34. 1 Peter 2:9. 7. D&C 13:1. 35. Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:540. We will strive to be found worthy 8. See D&C 20:41; 33:15. 36. “True to the Faith,” Hymns, no. 254.

NOVEMBER 2003 27 the earth. But Paul, seeing our day, prophesied “that in the dispensation Receiving a of the fulness of times [God would] gather together in one all things in Christ.”3 He would restore Christ’s true Church to the earth once more. Testimony of the Over the centuries, the world was prepared for that restoration. The Bible was translated and published. Restored Gospel A new land was discovered. The spirit of reformation swept through the Christian world, and a nation was founded on the principles of freedom. of Jesus Christ Joseph Smith was born in that nation and, at the age of 14, found ELDER ROBERT D. HALES himself caught in a “tumult of [reli- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gious] opinions.” Often he asked himself, “If any one of [these churches] Follow the example of Joseph Smith and the pattern be right, which is it, and how shall I know it?”4 of the Restoration. Turn to the scriptures. Kneel in prayer. Joseph turned to the Bible for Ask in faith. Listen to the Holy Ghost. answers. “If any of you lack wisdom,” he read in the Epistle of James, “let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it the Restoration are excellent exam- shall be given him.”5 ples of this process. As you listen to Following James’s direction, my message today of the events of the Joseph went to a grove of trees near Restoration, look for the steps that his home and prayed. As he called lead to testimony: desiring to know upon God, “a pillar of light . . . the truth, pondering in our hearts, descended,” brighter than the noon- then feeling and obediently following day sun, and “two Personages” the promptings of the Holy Ghost. appeared. “One of them spake . . . , Joseph Smith was born on calling [Joseph] by name and said, December 23, 1805, in Sharon, pointing to the other—This is My Vermont. He came into a family that Beloved Son. Hear Him!”6 prayed and studied the Bible. In his God the Father and His Son, Jesus youth, he became interested in reli- Christ, conversed with Joseph. They gion and discovered a “great confu- answered his question. They taught sion” over the doctrines of Christ, him that the true Church of Christ with “priest contending against priest, had been lost from the earth. Joseph and convert against convert.”1 learned that these members of the s Church leaders, we are often This confusion was not unique to Godhead were separate and distinct asked, “How do I receive a his community. It began centuries ear- beings, They knew him by name, and A testimony of the restored lier in what has been called the Great They were willing to answer his gospel of Jesus Christ?” Apostasy. The day of Christ “shall not prayers. The heavens were opened, Gaining a testimony and becoming come,” said the Apostle Paul, “except the night of apostasy was over, and converted begins with study and there come a falling away first.”2 the light of the gospel began to shine prayer, then living the gospel with A few decades after Christ’s forth. patience and persistence and inviting Resurrection, His Apostles were Like Joseph, many of us find our- and waiting upon the Spirit. The life killed, His teachings were corrupted, selves seeking the light of truth. Just of Joseph Smith and the pattern of and the priesthood was taken from as the world was prepared for the

28 Restoration, each of us is prepared to condemned for my weakness and The next day, Joseph found the receive the light of the gospel in our imperfections.”7 But he did not lose plates, but the time had not yet own lives. Sometimes that prepara- faith or forget the power of prayer. arrived to bring them forth. Moroni tion comes through a change in our On September 21, 1823, at the instructed Joseph to meet him there circumstances—through meeting a age of 17, he knelt to ask “for forgive- that same day each year for the next new friend, moving to a new commu- ness of [his] sins and follies, and [to four years.12 nity, a change of employment, the receive] a manifestation . . . of [his] Joseph obeyed. Each year he birth of a child, the death of a loved state and standing before [God].”8 went to the hill where Moroni gave one, illness, misfortune, and even As he prayed, a light once again him “instruction” 13 concerning the tragedy. appeared, increasing “until the room Restoration of Christ’s Church. Much During these times of transition, was lighter than at noonday.”9 In that like the Savior’s childhood described we seek answers to the important light there stood a personage dressed in the New Testament, Joseph questions of life: Who are we? Where in a robe of “exquisite whiteness.”10 “increased in wisdom and stature”14 did we come from? Why are we here He called Joseph by name and intro- and “waxed strong in spirit.”15 on earth? And where are we going duced himself as Moroni. He said So it is for us. Some newly baptized after we die? Joseph was not born “that God had a work for [Joseph] members become discouraged about with this knowledge, and neither to do”11 and told him of an ancient their wisdom and stature in the were we. We must find it. record written on gold plates, which, gospel—about what they do not Like Joseph, we must search the when translated, became the Book know. They forget the obedient effort, scriptures and pray. For many, this of Mormon. The book contained a gospel tutoring, and spiritual matura- means overcoming feelings of doubt record of the fulness of the gospel, as tion that were part of Joseph’s early and unworthiness, being humble, and taught to Moroni’s ancestors by Jesus experiences. Those who are longtime learning to exercise faith. Christ. Joseph was directed to obtain members should also remember that During the three years follow- that record, buried near his family’s regular spiritual instruction and learning his First Vision, Joseph felt very home in a nearby hill, which is now ing are required if we are to wax humble. Often, he said, “I . . . felt called Cumorah. strong in the Spirit.

NOVEMBER 2003 29 nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head,”21 had come to His holy house. Moses, Elias, and Elijah also appeared there and committed the keys of the kingdom, the saving ordinances, to Joseph.22 Brothers and sisters, can we see the pattern? Every major event of the Restoration—the First Vision, the appearance of Moroni and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, the restoration of the priesthood, and the appearance of Jesus Christ following the dedication of His holy temple— was preceded by prayer. Since that time, 116 temples have been dedicated. I have attended a number of these sacred meetings. After four years of continued obe- whether they should be baptized are Dedicatory prayers have been offered. dience, Joseph received the plates on invited to follow Joseph and Oliver’s The Holy Ghost has been present in September 22, 1827, at the age of 21. example and pray. And all who are abundance. During these times, He also received an ancient instru- prepared and worthy for baptism may among many others, I have felt the ment for translating them, called the receive it from one whose authority undeniable witness of the Spirit of Urim and Thummim. Using this has been passed unbroken from the God, like a fire burning in my heart, sacred interpreter, along with the hands of John the Baptist in this that the restored gospel is true. Holy Ghost, Joseph began the work dispensation. How did I learn these things? Nephi of translation in December of that In late May or early June 1829, the gives a clear and compelling account year.16 In time he was joined by a Melchizedek, or higher, Priesthood of the process, which includes desir- schoolteacher named Oliver Cowdery, was conferred on Joseph and Oliver by ing, believing, having faith, pondering, who acted as his scribe.17 the Apostles Peter, James, and John. and then following the Spirit. Let’s At the age of 23 Joseph was trans- The translation of the Book of hear it as related by Nephi: “For it lating the plates when he and Oliver Mormon was also completed that came to pass after I had desired to came upon a passage about baptism June, and the book was published less know the things that my father had for the remission of sins. Like new than a year later, on March 26, 1830. seen [in a vision of the tree of life], and investigators, they wanted to know Twelve days after the Book of believing that the Lord was able to more. Joseph knew what to do. Mormon was published, on April 6 make them known unto me, as I sat On May 15, 1829, the two men went the Church was formally organized at pondering in mine heart I was caught into the woods to inquire of the Lord. the home of Peter Whitmer Sr., in away in the Spirit of the Lord, yea, . . . While they were praying, John the Fayette, New York. As prophesied by the Spirit [spoke] unto me.”23 Baptist appeared “in a cloud of light.”18 Paul, the ancient Church of Christ was Once we receive a witness of the He was the one who had baptized the once again established on the earth.20 Spirit, our testimony is strengthened Savior in life. He held the priesthood But the work of the Restoration through study, prayer, and living the keys necessary to perform that ordi- was not over. As in times of old, mem- gospel. Our growing testimony brings nance by the authority of God. bers of the Church were instructed to us increased faith in Jesus Christ and As Joseph and Oliver knelt before build a temple, which was dedicated His plan of happiness. We are moti- John, he laid his hands on their heads in Kirtland, Ohio, on March 27, 1836. vated to repent and obey the com- and conferred the Aaronic Priesthood One week later, on April 3, a meeting mandments, which, with a mighty upon them.19 From that point on, was held there. Following a solemn change of heart, leads to our conver- Joseph and Oliver possessed the and silent prayer, Joseph and Oliver sion. And our conversion brings divine authority to baptize and confer that saw the Lord Jesus Christ standing forgiveness, healing, joy, and the desire priesthood on others. before them. He who had said, “Foxes to bear our witness to others. Today all who want to know have holes, and the birds . . . have Now you may wonder, how does

30 one begin this process? May I suggest accepting the invitation extended by Moroni in the Book of Mormon: “And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”24 For some, this happens quickly. For others, it happens gradually over the years. We are able to receive this spiritual manifestation because the Holy Ghost is “a personage of Spirit” who can “dwell in us.”25 His mission is to wit- us, we feel a love for God and all His patience and persistence. And in the ness of the Father and the Son, con- children. This love casts out fear and name of Jesus Christ, I promise, “If ye vey Their will to us, and teach us “all fills us with the desire to open our will . . . ask [Heavenly Father] in faith, things what [we] should do.”26 People mouths. There is no greater gift we believing that ye shall receive, with everywhere may feel the influence of can give others than to bear our tes- diligence in keeping [the Lord’s] com- the Holy Ghost from time to time in timony to them. There is no greater mandments, surely these things shall their lives. But only those who have joy we can have than to bring even be made known unto you.”30 been baptized and confirmed can one soul unto Christ.29 And there is Jesus Christ lives. This is His work. receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by no greater way to strengthen our Of this I bear my special witness, in the laying on of hands by one in own testimony than to share our wit- the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ authority, which makes His constant ness of Him with the world. As we NOTES companionship possible. do, our families will be strengthened. 1. Joseph Smith—History 1:6. Retaining that companionship Our wards, stakes, and communities 2. 2 Thessalonians 2:3. 3. Ephesians 1:10. requires an earnest effort on the part will be filled with peace and love, 4. Joseph Smith—History 1:10. of Church members. If we are not and, ultimately, the earth will be 5. James 1:5; see Joseph Smith—History 1:11. 6. Joseph Smith—History 1:16–17. obedient to the laws, principles, and prepared for the Second Coming of 7. Joseph Smith—History 1:29. ordinances of the gospel, the Holy our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 8. Joseph Smith—History 1:29. Ghost will withdraw. He cannot be I know the restored gospel of Jesus 9. Joseph Smith—History 1:30. 10. Joseph Smith—History 1:31. with us if we are angry in our hearts, Christ is true. I know The Church of 11. Joseph Smith—History 1:33. contentious with our companions, or Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is His 12. See Joseph Smith—History 1:52–53. critical of the Lord’s anointed. He Church on the earth today. I know 13. Joseph Smith—History 1:54. 14. Luke 2:52. departs whenever we are rebellious, Joseph Smith is a prophet of God and 15. Luke 2:40. are immoral, dress or act immodestly, Gordon B. Hinckley is his successor, 16. See Joseph Smith—History 1:59, 62. are unclean or profane in mind or the prophet and President of the 17. See Joseph Smith—History 1:66–67. 18. Joseph Smith—History 1:68. body, are slothful in priesthood call- Church today. 19. See D&C 13; Joseph Smith—History ings and duties, or commit other sins, I exhort you, I pray for you—if you 1:68–69. 20. See Ephesians 1:10. for “the Spirit of the Lord doth not do not know these things for yourself, 21. Matthew 8:20. dwell in unholy temples.”27 follow the example of Joseph Smith 22. See D&C 110. Therefore we must continually and the pattern of the Restoration. 23. 1 Nephi 11:1–2; emphasis added. 24. Moroni 10: 4–5. repent, partake of the sacrament, be Turn to the scriptures. Kneel in prayer. 25. D&C 130:22. worthy of a temple recommend, and Ask in faith. Listen to the Holy Ghost. 26. 2 Nephi 32:5. serve the Lord with all our “heart, Learn that your name and needs are 27. Helaman 4:24. 28 28. D&C 4:2. might, mind and strength.” known by our Heavenly Father, just as 29. See D&C 18:15. With the Holy Ghost dwelling in Joseph’s were. Live the gospel with 30. 1 Nephi 15:11.

NOVEMBER 2003 31 human being. Divine doctrines and teachings have been taught with clar- The Clarion Call ity by prophets, both ancient and modern, as moved upon by the Holy Ghost. As we hear those truths, they are communicated to our hearts and of Prophets minds by that same Spirit. As we consider the role of prophets, ELDER SHIRLEY D. CHRISTENSEN it is vital to understand that, first, Of the Seventy prophets are called of God and He testifies to the world of their calling. Prophets and apostles stand at the head of this work today The ancient book of Abraham as it goes forth to all the world. describes an event that occurred in the premortal existence as God looked over the spirits He had created: “And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the that will increase our faith in the midst of them, and he said: These I Father and the Son and our love for will make my rulers; for he stood the principles of the restored gospel. among those that were spirits, and he In turn, those feelings will draw us saw that they were good; and he said nearer to Them as we feel Their pres- unto me: Abraham, thou art one of ence in our lives and desire with all them; thou wast chosen before thou our hearts to know Their will and to wast born” (Abraham 3:23). become like Them. Of Samuel, the Old Testament My message and testimony to you prophet, the scriptures record that is that prophets and apostles stand at “Samuel grew, and the Lord was with the head of this work today as it goes him, and did let none of his words fall forth to all the world. They have been to the ground. And all Israel from Dan called of God by revelation. They are even to Beer-sheba knew that Samuel indeed prophets, seers, and revela- was established to be a prophet of the tors. The Lord loves them, and as Lord” (1 Samuel 3:19–20). members of the Church, we honor The Book of Mormon quotes the them and look to them as servants of Savior in ancient America when He s I look out over this vast con- the living God. The clarion call of the emphasized the value of Isaiah’s Old gregation, in my mind’s eye I prophets is as clear today as it ever Testament prophecies: A see not only those present in was in the past, and the testimony of “And now, behold, I say unto you, the Conference Center, but those of the prophets will continue to the very that ye ought to search these things. you who are participating in this con- moment that the Lord Jesus Christ Yea, a commandment I give unto you ference in meetinghouses and homes returns to reign in glory. that ye search these things diligently; throughout the world. Although you We live in wonderful but perilous for great are the words of Isaiah. may be near or far away, you are so times. Throughout the earth, the fab- “For surely he spake as touching all vital to the work of the Lord and the ric of nations and the collective world things concerning my people which establishment of the Church where appears to be deteriorating. We see are of the house of Israel; . . . you live. discord and enmity between leaders “And all things that he spake have We are united in our love for God and nations, conflicts between com- been and shall be, even according to our Eternal Father. We honor His munities, and contention within fami- the words which he spake. . . . name and that of His Only Begotten lies. The solution to the ills of the “. . . Search the prophets, for many Son, the Savior of the world, even world is found in understanding the there be that testify of these things” Jesus Christ. In this conference, there doctrines and teachings of the Lord (3 Nephi 23:1–3, 5). will be communicated to us—through Jesus Christ and the application of Second, the role of prophets is the power of the Holy Ghost—feelings those principles in the lives of every to teach of Christ and testify of His

32 Members of the First Presidency (center) greet members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. divinity and His mission. Adam, the prophet, taught his sons Nephi and bearing record that he is the Only first prophet, with his wife, Eve, heard Lehi: “And now, my sons, remember, Begotten of the Father— the voice of the Lord and initiated the remember that it is upon the rock of “That by him, and through him, pattern for the dispensations that our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son and of him, the worlds are and were would follow. Of that momentous of God, that ye must build your foun- created” (D&C 76:22–24). event it is recorded that “Adam dation; that when the devil shall send The third characteristic of blessed God and was filled, and began forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts prophets is that their teachings are to prophesy concerning all the fami- in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail recorded and are taught by succeed- lies of the earth, saying: Blessed be and his mighty storm shall beat upon ing prophets and teachers to the the name of God, for because of my you, it shall have no power over you inhabitants of the earth. The Lord said transgression my eyes are opened, to drag you down to the gulf of mis- to the Old Testament prophet Moses, and in this life I shall have joy, and ery and endless wo, because of the “Come up to me into the mount, and again in the flesh I shall see God. rock upon which ye are built, which be there: and I will give thee tables of “And Eve, his wife, heard all these is a sure foundation, a foundation stone, and a law, and commandments things and was glad, saying: Were it whereon if men build they cannot which I have written; that thou not for our transgression we never fall” (Helaman 5:12). mayest teach them” (Exodus 24:12). should have had seed, and never Perhaps the most powerful testi- The Lord’s living prophets today should have known good and evil, mony of the Savior in this dispensa- have given an equally compelling tes- and the joy of our redemption, and tion was given in 1832 by the Prophet timony when in 1995 they testified to the eternal life which God giveth unto Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon: the world of the sacred nature of mar- all the obedient. “And now, after the many testi- riage and the family: “And Adam and Eve blessed the monies which have been given of “We, the First Presidency and the name of God, and they made all him, this is the testimony, last of all, Council of the Twelve Apostles of The things known unto their sons and which we give of him: That he lives! Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day their daughters” (Moses 5:10–12). “For we saw him, even on the right Saints, solemnly proclaim that mar- Helaman, an ancient American hand of God; and we heard the voice riage between a man and a woman is

NOVEMBER 2003 33 ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. . . . The Lord Thy God “We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s Will Hold Thy Hand eternal plan. . . . “We call upon responsible citizens ELDER W. CRAIG ZWICK and officers of government every- Of the Seventy where to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen If we will . . . walk hand in hand with Him in His paths, the family as the fundamental unit of we will go forward with faith and never feel alone. society” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Liahona, Oct. 1998, 24; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102). Later they also gave their personal witness, as the Lord’s Apostles, to the (see William Wilson, Old Testament mission of Jesus Christ: Word Studies [1978], 205). Thus, “We solemnly testify that His life, hands signify power and strength. which is central to all human history, The extended hand of our living neither began in Bethlehem nor con- prophet, President Gordon B. cluded on Calvary. He was the Hinckley, strengthens, lifts, and Firstborn of the Father, the Only inspires people all across the world. Begotten Son in the flesh, the To be in the hands of God would Redeemer of the world. . . . suggest that we are not only under “We testify that He will someday His watchful care but also that we are return to earth. . . . He will rule as guarded and protected by His won- King of Kings and reign as Lord of drous power. Lords, and every knee shall bend and Throughout the scriptures, refer- every tongue shall speak in worship ence is made to the hand of the Lord. before Him. Each of us will stand to His divine assistance is evidenced be judged of Him according to our over and over again. His powerful works and the desires of our hearts” hands created worlds, and yet they (“The Living Christ: The Testimony of n the eyes and hearts of many were gentle enough to bless the little the Apostles,” Liahona and Ensign, people in the world today, there is children. Apr. 2000, 2–3). Ievidence of doubt, fear, and hope- Consider John’s words describing At their very core, the doctrines of lessness. Much of the insecurity in the the resurrected and glorified Savior: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- world has filtered into our homes and “And when I saw him, . . . he laid his day Saints are intended to convey to personal lives. No matter what our age right hand upon me, saying unto me, the soul of every sincere person who or circumstance, we all have a need to Fear not; . . . I am he that liveth, and will ask of God in faith a personal tes- know that we have power in the pres- was dead; and, behold, I am alive for timony of our Lord and Savior and the ent and hope in the future. evermore” (Revelation 1:17–18). role of the prophets from the dawn of Listen to the words of Mormon: When He lays His hand upon us, we, time to this very moment. I testify “Know ye not that ye are in the hands like John, can be alive in Him. that the succession of prophets has of God? Know ye not that he hath all Twenty-four years ago, our tiny continued from Joseph Smith, the power?” (Mormon 5:23). newborn son struggled for his life in first prophet of this dispensation, to Hands are one of the symbolically the intensive care unit of a hospital. Gordon B. Hinckley, the Lord’s expressive parts of the body. In His lungs were not fully developed prophet today. Of that I bear my wit- Hebrew, yad, the most common word because of his premature birth, and ness and testimony. In the name of for “hand,” is also used metaphori- he desperately fought for each breath Jesus Christ, amen. ■ cally to mean power, strength, might of air. He was so small but with so

34 my eternal companion and I looked at each other across the isolette, feeling the spirit of renewed hope and comfort born of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the personal effect of His Atonement. It was a powerful witness of His love for an infant son who had just left His presence. We were then better prepared to accept His will for our son. We truly felt we had placed our hands in the hands of the Savior. It was as if the Savior’s own hands provided the critical respiratory aid, allowing our son to breathe and gain sustenance. With each breath and with each incremental bit of progress, we expressed prayerful thanks. Today, our healthy son and his indebted parents continue to be so grateful for the Savior’s willing hands. Among the supernal promises of coming forth in the morning of the First Resurrection and inheriting “thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers” are the additional promises of “all heights and depths” (D&C 132:19). The great plan of happiness includes a proverbial roller coaster of challenging times along with the most joyful times. Yes, we all have our moments of difficulty and heartbreak. Occasionally, they are so difficult for us that we just want to give up. There are times when our steps are unsteady, when we feel discouraged and even reach out in desperation. Elder Holland reminds us that the “symbol of the cup that cannot pass is a cup that comes in our life as well as much will to live. As young and inex- each of my hands covered his tiny in [the Savior’s]. It is in a much lesser perienced parents, my courageous head as I administered to him. way, to a much lesser degree, but it and ever faithful wife, Jan, and I Our desire for him was pure, but comes often enough to teach us that prayed that the Lord’s hand would we knew that his earthly experience we have to obey” (Trusting Jesus reach out and somehow help our rested in the Lord’s hands and not in [2003], 42). baby boy continue to breathe. As I put ours or in the medical team who Every one of us needs to know that my trembling hand through the small cared for him. I then humbly realized we can go on in the strength of the opening into the isolette, I felt so that my quivering hands held power Lord. We can put our hand in His, and inadequate and powerless. I took and authority well beyond my own. we will feel His sustaining presence hold of the tiny but perfect hand of My fingers on his head symbolized lift us to heights unattainable alone. our newborn son, and there was a the placing of God’s hands and power When a stricken father brought his powerful spiritual connection never upon our son. Following that bless- terribly afflicted son to Jesus, Mark to be forgotten. Two fingers from ing, in a moment of emotional peace, records that “Jesus took him by the

NOVEMBER 2003 35 hand, and lifted him up; and he children and the tears in the eyes of could see how tightly the blind man arose” (Mark 9:27). another until they were at the door, held the hand of his friend. We must trust in the Lord. If we ready to leave. They realized that Overcome with her own physical give ourselves freely to Him, our bur- their children were apprehensive pain, she was lifted as she watched dens will be lifted and our hearts will about their mommy and daddy being these two men run hand in hand. He be consoled. away from them. So their parents who could see was motivated by his Elder Scott has recently counseled: gathered their four precious children blind friend, and the blind man “Trust in God . . . no matter how chal- around them. Their daddy asked depended upon the connection he lenging the circumstance. . . . Your them to put their hands out in front had to his friend’s hand. Our daugh- peace of mind, your assurance of of them. All eight tiny hands were ter knew the blind man could never answers to vexing problems, your ulti- extended. Mom and Dad then kissed finish the race alone. She was inspired mate joy depend upon your trust in each hand and told them that when by the trust of the blind man and the Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus they missed them or they were fright- devoted love of his friend. Christ” (“The Sustaining Power of ened or needed to feel their love, In like manner, the Savior has Faith in Times of Uncertainty and they could put their little hands up to stretched forth His hand to each of us Testing,” Liahona and Ensign, May their cheeks and they would be able so that we don’t have to run alone. 2003, 76, 78). to feel Mommy’s and Daddy’s pres- “To those [of us] who [occasionally] How do we learn to trust? How do ence anytime. They were so happy, stagger or stumble, He is there to we learn to extend our hand and con- and when our daughter and son-in- steady and strengthen” (Trusting nect to the comfort provided by the law left, they saw four little children Jesus, 43). As we advance toward the Lord? standing at the window with smiles finish line, He will be there to save us; Clear instruction came from the on their faces and hands on their and for all this He gave His life. Lord to Joseph Smith: “Learn of me, cheeks. Imagine the wounds in His hands. and listen to my words; walk in the They trusted their parents. They His weathered hands, yes, even His meekness of my Spirit, and you shall knew they were loved. hands of torn flesh and physical sacri- have peace in me. . . . Pray always, and Just as little children trust, each of fice, give our own hands greater I will pour out my Spirit upon you” us must have that same childlike, power and direction. (D&C 19:23, 38). unreserved trust. We must all remem- It is the wounded Christ who leads Here are four keys: ber that we are sons and daughters of us through our moments of difficulty. • Learn God and that He loves us very much. It is He who bears us up when we • Listen If we truly understand who we are, need more air to breathe or direction • Seek the Spirit we will have an unfailing source of to follow or even more courage to • Pray always hope and comfort. continue. The Lord will provide sustenance We can never complete “the race If we will keep the commandments and support if we are willing to open that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1) of God and walk hand in hand with the door and receive His hand of without placing our hand in the Lord’s. Him in His paths, we will go forward divine assistance. Several years ago, our only with faith and never feel alone. President Thomas S. Monson daughter decided to compete in a Trust in His promise of eternal life, reminds us of the Savior’s willing marathon. She trained and worked and allow peace and hope to distill hand of rescue: “Adored is the hand very hard, along with some of her upon you. that saves—even the hand of Jesus friends. The race was difficult, and When we connect with the Author Christ, the Son of God. . . . With that there were times when she wanted to of Peace and with His perfect and hand he knocks upon the door of our quit. But she kept going, just concen- redeeming love, then we can come to understanding” (“Hands,” Tambuli, trating on one step at a time. As she know the reality of the Lord’s prom- Mar. 1991, 5; Ensign, Aug. 1990, 5). was approaching the middle part of ise: “I the Lord thy God will hold thy Recently our daughter and son- the course, she heard someone right hand, saying . . . , Fear not; I will in-law were preparing to enjoy an behind her shout out, “Blind man on help thee” (Isaiah 41:13). evening together. They were rushing your left.” I testify of Jesus Christ, our around trying to get ready and give She turned her head only to see a Redeemer and living Savior. the babysitter some last-minute blind man overtake her, holding the I testify that He lives and extends instructions. They didn’t really notice hand of another man. They were both His loving hand to each of us. In the the sad countenance of one of the running the race. As they passed, she name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

36 for he was to pass that way. “And when Jesus came to the Repentance place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. and Change “And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully” ELDER DALLIN H. OAKS (Luke 19:1–6). Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Here the Gospel records that Jesus’ followers “murmured” because Repenting means giving up all of our practices—personal, of His going to the house of a sinner family, ethnic, and national—that are contrary to the (v. 7). But that did not matter to Jesus. His gospel is for all who will forsake commandments of God. their old ways and make the changes they need to be saved in the kingdom of God. Now back to the account of the I. man who opened his house and his My introduction is something said heart to the Lord: in my presence by one of these “And Zacchaeus stood, and said valiant missionaries. “As I look back unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half on my life,” he said, “I can hardly of my goods I give to the poor; and if I imagine a barefoot surfer from Hawaii have taken any thing from any man by completing his third mission. But false accusation, I restore him fourfold. when I felt the warm embrace of the “And Jesus said unto him, This day Savior, I wanted to serve Him, and I is salvation come to this house. . . . changed.” Yes he did! Stanley Y. Q. Ho “For the Son of man is come to told me that until he was 30 years old seek and to save that which was lost” he did nothing but “hang around the (vv. 8–10). beaches at Waikiki.” Then he found Zacchaeus of Jericho and Stanley the gospel, he married a Latter-day of Hawaii stand for all of us. They are Saint girl, and he changed. Since then examples of what we pray will be he has fulfilled many callings, includ- experienced by all of us who decide ing bishop and stake president. Now, to receive the Lord “joyfully” and fol- bring you greetings from the Elder Ho and his beloved Momi, who low where He leads. Philippines Area, with its 520,000 is responsible for so many of the I members in 80 stakes and 80 changes in his life, have served three II. member districts and its 2,200 mis- full-time missions. The gospel of Jesus Christ chal- sionaries in 13 missions. We are pro- For another example, I turn to the lenges us to change. “Repent” is its gressing against the challenges the Gospel of Luke: most frequent message, and repent- Church encounters where it is not yet “And Jesus entered and passed ing means giving up all of our prac- fully established. through Jericho. tices—personal, family, ethnic, and In these developing areas, we “And, behold, there was a man national—that are contrary to the rely heavily on senior missionary named Zacchaeus, which was the commandments of God. The purpose couples. I stress this because there chief among the publicans, and he of the gospel is to transform common are many within the sound of my was rich. creatures into celestial citizens, and voice who need to know how much “And he sought to see Jesus who that requires change. their service is appreciated, and he was; and could not for the press, John the Baptist preached repen- there are others we pray will because he was little of stature. tance. His listeners came from differ- decide to be available for this vital “And he ran before, and climbed ent groups, and he declared the service. up into a sycomore tree to see him: changes each must make to “bring

NOVEMBER 2003 37 and that requires a wrenching change for many non-Christians and even for those Christians who have attended church only as irregular spectators. The Lord’s command that we abstain from alcohol, tobacco, tea, and coffee (see D&C 89) also runs counter to the traditions of many. Long-standing addictions or habits are not easily broken, but God’s command is clear, and the promised blessings more than compensate for the challenges of change. Another example is honesty. Some cultures allow lying, stealing, and other dishonest practices. But dishonesty in any form—whether to appease, to save face, or to get gain—is in direct forth . . . fruits worthy of repentance” not commit adultery,” the Lord com- conflict with gospel commandments (Luke 3:8). Publicans, soldiers, and manded from Sinai (Exodus 20:14) and culture. God is a God of truth, and ordinary people—each had traditions and repeated in modern revelation God does not change. We are the ones that had to yield to the process of (D&C 42:24; see also D&C 59:6). who must change. And that will be a repentance. “Flee fornication” the New Testament big change for all whose traditions The teachings of Jesus also chal- commands (1 Corinthians 6:18; see accustom them to thinking that they lenged the traditions of different also Galatians 5:19; 1 Thessalonians can lie a little, cheat a little, or engage groups. When the scribes and 4:3). Always the prophets of God have in deceit whenever it brings personal Pharisees complained that His disci- condemned whoredoms. Yet these advantage and is not likely to be ples “transgress[ed] the tradition of eternal commands have frequently detected. the elders” by omitting the ritual been ignored, opposed, or mocked A less serious worldly tradition that washings, Jesus replied that the by powerful traditions in many lands. conflicts with gospel culture is the scribes and Pharisees “transgress[ed] This is especially visible today, when idea of upward or downward move- the commandment of God by [their] the movies, magazines, and Internet ment in positions. In the world, we tradition” (Matthew 15:2–3). He communications of one nation are refer to the up or down of promo- described how they had “made the instantly shared with many others. tions or reductions. But there is no commandment of God of none Sexual relations out of wedlock are up or down in Church positions. We effect by [their] tradition” (v. 6). tolerated or advocated by many. So is just move around. A bishop released “Hypocrites” is what He called those the rapidly expanding culture of by proper authority and called to whose adherence to their traditions pornography. All who have belonged teach in Primary does not move kept them from keeping the com- to these cultures of sin must repent down. He moves forward as he mandments of God (v. 7). and change if they are to become the accepts his release with gratitude and Again, in modern revelation the people of God, for He has warned fulfills the duties of a new calling— Lord declares that the “wicked one” that “no unclean thing can enter into even one far less visible. takes the innocent children of God his kingdom” (3 Nephi 27:19). I saw a memorable example of this away from light and truth “through dis- Weekly attendance at church is a few months ago in the Philippines. I obedience . . . and because of the tra- another example of a commandment visited a ward in the Pasig stake, near dition of their fathers” (D&C 93:39). contrary to popular traditions. The Manila. There I met Augusto Lim, The traditions or culture or way of Lord has commanded us to attend whom I had known in earlier years as life of a people inevitably include church and “offer up [our] sacra- a stake president, a mission president, some practices that must be changed ments” on His Sabbath day (see D&C a General Authority, and president of by those who wish to qualify for 59:9). This requires more than passive the Manila temple. Now I saw him God’s choicest blessings. attendance. We are commanded to serving humbly and gratefully in his Chastity is an example. “Thou shalt participate in worship and in service, ward bishopric, second counselor to a

38 man much younger and much less experienced. From temple president to second counselor in a ward bishopric is a beautiful example of the gospel culture in action. In these examples I am not contrasting the culture or traditions of one part of the world with another. I am contrasting the Lord’s way with the world’s way—the culture of the gospel of Jesus Christ with the culture or traditions of every nation or people. No group has a monopoly on virtue or an immunity from the commandment to change. Jesus and His Apostles did not attempt to make Gentiles into Jews (see Romans 2:11; Galatians 2:11–16; 3:1–29; 5:1–6; 6:15). They taught Gentiles and Jews, attempting to make each of them into followers of Christ. Similarly, the present-day servants of the Lord do not attempt to make Filipinos or Asians or Africans into Americans. The Savior invites all to come unto Him (see 2 Nephi 26:33; D&C 43:20), and His servants seek to persuade all—including Americans— to become Latter-day Saints. We say to all, give up your traditions and cul- tural practices that are contrary to the commandments of God and the culture of His gospel, and join with His people in building the kingdom of God. If we cease to walk in darkness, the Apostle John taught, “we walk in the light, . . . we have fellowship one lives. The principles stated in the shall lose its savor wherewith shall the with another, and the blood of Jesus family proclamation are a beautiful earth be salted? The salt shall be Christ his Son cleanseth us from all expression of our gospel culture. thenceforth good for nothing, but to sin” (1 John 1:7). Those who are baptized in the be cast out and to be trodden under Church of Jesus Christ make foot of men” (3 Nephi 12:13; see also III. covenants. In modern revelation the Matthew 5:13; D&C 101:40). There is a unique gospel culture, a Lord declared, “When men are called This requires us to make some set of values and expectations and unto mine everlasting gospel, and changes from our family culture, our practices common to all members of covenant with an everlasting covenant, ethnic culture, or our national cul- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- they are accounted as the salt of the ture. We must change all elements of day Saints. This gospel way of life earth and the savor of men” (D&C our behavior that are in conflict with comes from the plan of salvation, the 101:39). To perform our covenant duty gospel commandments, covenants, commandments of God, and the as the salt of the earth, we must be dif- and culture. teachings of the living prophets. It is ferent from those around us. The gospel plan is based on indi- given expression in the way we raise As Jesus taught: “I give unto you to vidual responsibility. Our article of our families and live our individual be the salt of the earth; but if the salt faith states the eternal truth “that

NOVEMBER 2003 39 painful effort, and our differences must be visible. As the “salt of the earth,” we are also the “light of the world,” and our light must not be hidden (see Matthew 5:13–16). The Apostle John warned that this will cause the world to hate us (see 1 John 3:13). That is why those who have made the covenant to change have a sacred duty to love and help one another. That encouragement must be extended to every soul who struggles to come out of the culture of the world and into the culture of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Apostle John concluded, “Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18). No one shows love for their fellowmen more impressively than the noble men and women of this Church who leave comfortable homes and surroundings to serve as couple mis- men will be punished for their own effort and responsibility. It cannot sionaries. They provide the most sins, and not for Adam’s transgres- occur in a culture of dependency. authentic and the most valuable sion” (Articles of Faith 1:2). This Whatever causes us to be dependent assistance to those who are requirement of individual responsibil- on someone else for decisions or struggling to change. God bless ity, which has many expressions in resources we could provide for our- our couple missionaries! our doctrine, is in sharp contrast to selves weakens us spiritually and Satan’s plan to “redeem all mankind, retards our growth toward what the IV. that one soul shall not be lost ” gospel plan intends us to be. Jesus commanded us to love one (Moses 4:1). The plan of the Father The gospel raises people out of another, and we show that love by the and the Savior is based on individual poverty and dependency, but only way we serve one another. We are choice and individual effort. when gospel culture, including the also commanded to love God, and we The doctrine and practice of per- faithful payment of tithing even by the show that love by continually repent- sonal responsibility and personal very poor, prevails over the traditions ing and by keeping His command- effort collide with individual traditions and cultures of dependency. That is ments (see John 14:15). And and local cultures in many lands. We the lesson to be learned from the chil- repentance means more than giving live in a world where there are large dren of Israel, who came out of hun- up our sins. In its broadest meaning it differences in income and material dreds of years of slavery in Egypt and requires change, giving up all of our possessions and where there are followed a prophet into their own traditions that are contrary to the many public and private efforts to nar- land and became a mighty people. commandments of God. As we row these differences. The followers That lesson can also be learned from become full participants in the culture of the Savior are commanded to give the Mormon pioneers, who never of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we to the poor, and many do. But some used their persecutions or poverty as become “fellowcitizens with the gifts have promoted a culture of an excuse but went forward in faith, saints, and of the household of God” dependency, reducing their recipi- knowing that God would bless them (Ephesians 2:19). ents’ need for earthly food or shelter when they kept His commandments, I testify that this is what our Lord but impoverishing them in their eter- which He did. and Savior would have us do so that nal need for individual growth. The The changes we must make to we may become what His gospel growth required by the gospel plan become part of the gospel culture intends us to be, in the name of Jesus only occurs in a culture of individual require prolonged and sometimes Christ, amen. ■

40 capacities. I exhort you to prayerfully make worthy choices that will lead Realize Your you to realize your full potential. I will share one sure way you can begin to accomplish such growth. I have seen valiant missionaries brave Full Potential icy wind, resist torrential rains, slosh through slippery, muddy streets, and ELDER RICHARD G. SCOTT conquer fear. Often they bear a power- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ful testimony, only to be rejected and roundly criticized. I have seen them With all my capacity I encourage you to discover who you struggle to communicate truth in a really are. . . . I urge you to discern through the Spirit your new language. Sometimes the listener stares in puzzled silence. Then there divinely given capacities. dawns the shattering realization that the message is not understood. But I wouldn’t change any of it, even if I could, because there are those golden and a spirit of devotion. It was an moments of success that make all of inspiring experience. Each had set the hardships worthwhile. Such aside personal interests to accept a rewards come when the Spirit touches call to join what can become our a heart for eternal good because some- greatest generation of missionaries. one like you was there. To share truth I have had like experiences with in difficult circumstances is to treasure youth across the earth. The faculty at it more. When you push against the our three universities note a signifi- boundaries of experience into the twi- cant increase in capacity and spiritual light of the unknown, the Lord will sensitivity of students. Something strengthen you. The beauty of your extraordinary is happening. Do you eternal soul will begin to unfold. sense it? Truly, as obedience and The challenges are greater now morality decline in the world, the than ever. That is why the Lord needs Lord is sending more exceptional more capable, better prepared mis- spirits to earth. As a body they excel sionaries. He needs those who are the average capacity of their fore- clean and pure so that they can be bears. Their potential for personal guided by the Spirit and can testify ecently I watched over 20,000 growth and positive contribution is with converting power. Qualify to be young Latter-day Saint men and enormous. As parents and leaders, one of those exceptional missionaries. R women listen to a spiritual mes- how are you cultivating that potential? It will not be easy. But when was any- sage. They took notes and concen- As a young man or woman of this thing really worthwhile easy? trated on the speaker, anxious to learn. generation, what are you doing to The First Presidency has defined There radiated from them an intense realize your extraordinary potential? high standards of moral worthiness spirit of purity, righteousness, and Will you nurture it and rise to excep- and the physical, mental, and emo- devotion. No one had forced them to tional heights of accomplishment and tional stability missionary service now come. They wanted to be there. happiness? How will you avoid Satan’s demands. The standards are rigorous, Later I met with over 2,000 full- efforts to undermine your potential but you can meet them. You will time missionaries preparing to serve. through transgression? Only you can rejoice in the feelings of peace and The room was charged with the answer these critical questions. confidence that come from living Spirit. I asked them difficult ques- With all my capacity I encourage them. The standards were raised not tions. They responded extremely well, you to discover who you really are. I to make it harder, but because mis- often citing supporting scriptures. As invite you to look beyond the daily sionaries now serve in an environ- I shook missionaries’ hands and routine of life. I urge you to discern ment where spiritual guidance is looked into their eyes, I felt purity through the Spirit your divinely given absolutely essential. Also, adjustments

NOVEMBER 2003 41 have been made in the presentation and emotionally able to prepare to Try reading the Book of Mormon of the discussions. They are not now serve worthily a full-time mission. because you want to, not because you memorized; rather, the basic content Bishops and stake presidents, with have to. Discover for yourself that it is is learned and given as guided by the priesthood and auxiliary leaders, true. As you read each page ask, Spirit. Personal worthiness is essential strengthen the spiritual capacity of “Could any man have written this to do that (see “Statement on your youth. Do that by encouraging book or did it come as Joseph Smith Missionary Work” attached to First their participation in Church activities testified?” Apply the teachings you Presidency letter, 11 Dec. 2002). that fortify the teachings of parents. learn. They will fortify you against the You are of a singular generation As a young man, actively partici- evil of Satan. Follow Moroni’s counsel. with exceptional potential. No won- pate in your priesthood quorum. As Sincerely ask God the Father, in the der Satan wants to cripple that poten- a young woman, attend class activi- name of Jesus Christ, with real intent, tial by tempting you to violate the ties and complete your Personal if the teachings of the Book of laws of God. He knows that he has no Progress goals. Both of you, be active Mormon are true (see Moroni power over a righteous individual. Yet in Sunday School discussions to 10:3–5). Ask with a desire to receive a he is a master at making sin appealing retain what is taught. Take part in confirmation personally, nothing to the undecided. seminary and institute to gain vital doubting. There has to be an explana- Preparation for a mission and a understanding of truth. Don’t just lis- tion of that book you can hold in your meaningful life best begins in the ten to pass a test. Incorporate what hand. I know that you can receive a home. As a parent, one of the greatest you study into your life. spiritual confirmation that it is true. gifts you can give a son or daughter is Study the First Vision as recorded You will then know that Jesus Christ to consistently nurture a growing testi- as Joseph Smith—History in the Pearl lives, that Joseph Smith was and is a mony of truth, patiently nurturing of Great Price. Learn of the subse- prophet, and that The Church of each child’s spiritual capacity. Carefully quent events that brought the full Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the explain the doctrines of the Church restoration of truth, with the priest- Lord’s Church (see introduction to and the power they give when well hood authority and ordinances essen- the Book of Mormon, especially the lived. That foundation will equip a tial to exaltation. Gain your own last paragraph). You will confirm that child to resist evil in the world. testimony of these things. Fix them in the Savior guides His Church through Encourage every son that is physically your mind and heart. a living prophet. These truths will

42 become a foundation for your productive life. One may say, “I don’t have all the blessings of an ideal family and full Church experience.” Neither did I enjoy all of those advantages, nor did some other members of the Quorum of the Twelve. Compensate by obtaining your own unwavering testimony of truth. Obtain a personal conviction that the Church of Jesus Christ has been restored to earth and that His doctrines are true. There are different paths to that treasured gift. They begin with your sincere desire to know. The flickering flame of faith can die if you do not nurture it. But that tiny flame can grow into a brilliant, unquenchable fire through sincere prayer and consistent study of the Book of Mormon and other scriptures. Such faith will be sustained as you apply the principles you learn. Remain worthy. When you really understand who you are, it is not diffi- improve the situation, then learn to with materials full-time missionaries cult to resist Satan’s temptations. live within the remaining bounds. can provide. Then look for opportuni- Then he can’t thwart the develop- God uses challenges that we may ties to share that message. As you ment of your true potential. grow by conquering them. conscientiously do that, you will be As a young man, the greatest Your physical or emotional circum- led to individuals that will be touched growth and strengthening experience stance may be such that you have to learn more. you can have at this time, bar none, is been excused by the President of the As I have spoken of missionary a worthy full-time mission. While a Church from full-time missionary service, you may have thought, mission is not for personal advantage, service (see “Statement on Missionary “That’s not for me.” I plead with you the Lord richly blesses those who Work” attached to First Presidency let- to prayerfully reconsider. All that I valiantly serve. Be one of the army of ter, 11 Dec. 2002). For you there are treasure most in life began to mature remarkable, well-prepared, devoted other ways to render meaningful serv- in the mission field. You can also earn missionaries that are qualifying to the ice compatible with your condition. such blessings. high standards of worthiness. Join Your bishop or stake president can If you have made bad choices, those who have chosen to serve the help you identify such service where repent now. Remove any such barrier Lord, wherever called, however chal- you live. It could be in a Church fam- to your progress and happiness. lenging it may be. ily history center, temple, welfare You are a precious young man or Missionary work is extremely project, employment center, or in a woman. Realize your full potential. Be demanding. If you have emotional local hospital, care center, shelter, or the leader and example the Lord challenges that can be stabilized to elsewhere. There are many places expects you to be. Young man, be a meet the rigors of a full-time mission, where help is needed. You can live at part of the greatest generation of mis- you can be called. It is vital that you home and contribute powerfully. sionaries. Worthy youth, prepare to continue to use your medication dur- Such a call can be for a few months or receive the temple ordinances and to ing your mission or until competent longer. Your stake president will come raise your eternal family. God loves medical authority counsels other- to know where you should serve and you. I testify that as you seek His wise. Recognize that emotional and for how long. He will then issue a for- help, He will guide you to fulfill your physical challenges are alike. One mal call. Whatever your call may be, worthy dreams, in the name of Jesus needs to do all that is possible to study the message of the Restoration Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2003 43 PRIESTHOOD SESSION 4 October 2003

in God and a passion for personal prayer. Only as an individual can you Personal keep the commandments of God. Only as an individual can you repent. Only as an individual can you qualify for the ordinances of salvation and Priesthood exaltation. And when your wife is sealed to you, her power and potential will increase yours. Responsibility I belong to a wonderful priesthood quorum. We enjoy a precious brother- ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON hood. We pray together; we serve Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles together. We teach, love, and sustain one another. The Twelve come from different backgrounds—business, edu- When ordained to an office in the priesthood, you are cation, law, and science. But not one granted authority. But power comes from exercising was called to serve because of that that authority in righteousness. background. In fact, all men called to positions of priesthood responsibility are chosen because of who they are and who they can become.3 Throughout life you will have a you begin to operate, will you pray wide variety of duties and responsibil- for me?” ities. Many of these are temporary The surgeon looked at the boy in and will be relinquished upon your amazement and said, “Why, I can’t release. (You probably won’t object to pray for you.” your release from a call to pull weeds Then the little fellow said, “If you at the welfare farm.) But you never won’t pray for me, please wait while I will be released from responsibilities pray for myself.” There on the operat- related to your personal and family ing table, the boy got on his knees, development. folded his hands, and began to pray. When ordained to an office in the He said: “Heavenly Father, I am only a priesthood, you are granted authority. little orphan boy. I am awful sick, and But power comes from exercising that these doctors are going to operate. authority in righteousness. Will you please help them that they will do it right? Heavenly Father, if you Responsibility to the Lord will make me well, I will be a good From the President of the Church boy. Thank you for making me well.” to the newest deacon, we are respon- y dear brethren of the priest- He then lay on his back, looked up at sible to the Lord. We are to be true hood, though we are from the tear-filled eyes of the doctors and and faithful and live by every principle Mmany nations, we are, as Paul nurses, and said, “Now I am ready.”2 and doctrine that He has given to us. said, of “one Lord, one faith, one bap- His physical recovery was com- We cannot compromise a revelation tism.”1 But the strength of the faith plete, and his spiritual power was or a commandment committed to our within each of us is developed indi- developing. You brethren are older charge. He trusts us to “build up the vidually, not as a group. and have had the priesthood con- kingdom of God, and to establish his For example, think of the faith of a ferred upon you. Your priesthood righteousness.”4 boy, about eight years of age, who quorums provide opportunities for One day each of us will give an was facing an emergency operation friendship, service, and learning. But account to the Lord.5 This awareness for acute appendicitis. As he lay on the responsibility to develop power in was evident in a serious conversation I the operating table, he looked up at the priesthood is personal. Only as an had years ago with a dear friend facing the surgeon and said, “Doctor, before individual can you develop a firm faith the end of his mortal life. I asked him

44 if he was ready to die. I’ll never forget The gift of the Holy Ghost can add times—will not be limited in time or his answer. With courage and convic- to that power. Scriptures tell of peo- place. Globally, it will host a whole, tion, he said, “My life is ready for ple who had received the Holy Ghost complete, and perfect union, welding inspection.” but did not know it.7 Don’t let that together dispensations, keys, powers, When the Prophet Joseph Smith happen to you. Cultivate that gift and and glories from the days of Adam faced death, he said, “I am going like qualify for this promise from God: even to the present time.9 a lamb to the slaughter; but I am calm “Speak the thoughts that I shall put The Aaronic Priesthood was as a summer’s morning; I have a con- into your hearts, and you shall not be restored May 15, 1829, by John the science void of offense towards God, confounded before men; For it shall Baptist; the Melchizedek Priesthood and towards all men.”6 be given you in the very hour, yea, in was restored shortly thereafter by Now is the time to prepare for the very moment, what ye shall say.”8 Peter, James, and John.10 Other heav- your own ultimate interview. You enly messengers conveyed specific might ask yourself: “Do I pay tithing Personal Responsibility and keys of the priesthood. Moroni held with a willing heart? Do I obey the Priesthood Power keys of the Book of Mormon.11 Moses Word of Wisdom? Is my language free Priesthood authority has existed in brought keys of the gathering of Israel from obscenities and swearing? Am I many dispensations, such as those of and the leading of the ten tribes.12 morally righteous? Am I truly grateful Adam, Noah, Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Elias conveyed keys of the restoration for the Atonement that makes my res- the meridian of time, the Jaredites, the of all things,13 including the urrection a reality and eternal life a Nephites, and others. All previous dis- Abrahamic covenant.14 And Elijah con- possibility? Do I honor temple pensations were limited in time, as ferred keys of the sealing authority.15 covenants that seal loved ones to me each ended in apostasy. They were also You know something about keys. forever?” If you can honestly say yes, limited to small segments of planet In your pocket there might be a key you are developing power in the Earth. In contrast, our dispensation— to your home or car. Priesthood keys, priesthood. the dispensation of the fulness of on the other hand, are intangible and

NOVEMBER 2003 45 • Pursue your personal education. • Uphold Church standards and be worthy of your future companion. How can you remember those five objectives? It’s easy. Look at your hand. Let your pointer finger point to the scriptures. From them gain a better knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and then live in accord with His teachings. Let your middle finger remind you to be worthy of missionary service. Let your ring finger remind you of marriage, endowment, sealing, and blessings of the temple. Let your end finger remind you that pursuit of an education is a religious responsibility.24 Let your thumb go up, reminding you to uphold the standards of the Church and be worthy of your eternal companion. The realization of these five objectives will bless your lives. You bearers of the Melchizedek Priesthood should qualify for the highest degree of celestial glory. “In order to obtain [it], a man must enter invisible. They “switch on” the author- comprehend the importance of “the into this order of the priesthood ity of the priesthood. Some keys even Holy Priesthood, after the Order of [meaning the new and everlasting convey power to bind in heaven as the Son of God.”20 covenant of marriage]; And if he does well as on earth.16 When you brethren have an oppor- not, he cannot obtain it.”25 Joseph Smith conferred priest- tunity to exercise the Melchizedek That covenant is honored when hood keys upon all of the Twelve.17 Priesthood, ponder what you are to you honor your wife. A husband’s Those keys have been transferred to do. When you lay hands upon the foremost priority should be the care successive leaders. Today President head of another, you are not offering a of his wife. Be true to her. Don’t ever Gordon B. Hinckley holds authority prayer, which of course requires no allow your eyes to gaze upon pornog- for every restored key held by “all authority. You are authorized to set raphy or let your language be lewd. those who have received a dispensa- apart, to ordain, to bless, and to speak The very choices made by reason of tion at any time from the beginning of in the name of the Lord.21 Remember agency limit one’s agency in the the creation.”18 His promises: “Whomsoever you bless future. You cannot exercise agency With this doctrinal history in mind, I will bless,”22 and “I will impart unto and escape accountability and respon- it is clear that one cannot buy the you of my Spirit, . . . and then shall ye sibility for each choice. priesthood. Scripture declares that know . . . all things . . . pertaining unto Never forget that “the rights of the “no man taketh this honour unto things of righteousness, in faith believ- priesthood are inseparably connected himself, but he that is called of God, ing in me that you shall receive.”23 with the powers of heaven. . . . [This as was Aaron.”19 To magnify your callings in the power] cannot be controlled nor To bear the priesthood means you Aaronic Priesthood, you young men handled [except] upon the principles have a personal responsibility to should shape your personal efforts of righteousness.”26 If we abuse that magnify your calling. Let each oppor- toward five personal objectives to: power to cover our sins, to gratify tunity to serve help to develop your • Gain a knowledge of the gospel of our pride, to pursue vain ambition, power in the priesthood. In your Jesus Christ. or to control others in any degree personal grooming, follow the exam- • Be worthy of missionary service. of unrighteousness, we lose both ple of the living prophets. Doing so • Keep yourself morally clean and the authority and the power of the gives silent expression that you truly qualified to enter the holy temple. priesthood.27

46 Brethren, serve with gentleness, long-suffering, kindness, meekness, love unfeigned, pure knowledge, and 28 Young Men— charity toward all. Then the “doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon [your] soul as the dews from heaven.”29 Holders of Keys Please know of our love and gratitude for each of you. We thank you ELDER MONTE J. BROUGH for your faith, your service, and your Of the Seventy sustaining strength. May you, your loved ones, and your posterity be We need young men to stand up in their calling, blessed by your righteous pursuit of knowing of their ordained right to act in the office power in the priesthood. God lives. Jesus is the Christ. He to which they are appointed. directs His Church through His prophets and apostles. I so testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ heaven descended in a cloud of light, NOTES and having laid his hands upon us, he 1. Ephesians 4:5. 2. See George Albert Smith, Sharing the ordained us, saying: Gospel with Others, comp. Preston Nibley “Upon you my fellow servants, in (1948), 144–45. 3. See Matthew 20:16; 22:14; 1 Peter 2:9; the name of Messiah, I confer the Revelation 17:14; Alma 13:3, 6, 9; 3 Nephi Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the 12:1; D&C 3:10; 52:1; 95:5; 121:34, 40–46. keys of the ministering of angels, and 4. Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 6:38. 5. See Hebrews 13:17; Alma 5:18; 11:43; D&C of the gospel of repentance, and of 72:13–16. baptism by immersion for the remis- 6. D&C 135:4. sion of sins.”1 7. See 3 Nephi 9:20. 8. D&C 100:5–6. We have in this priesthood session 9. See D&C 128:18. of general conference tens of thou- 10. See Joseph Smith—History 1:72; sands of young men who hold the D&C 27:8, 12. 11. See D&C 27:5. Aaronic Priesthood and who belong 12. See D&C 110:11. to deacons, teachers, and priests 13. See D&C 27:6. 14. See D&C 110:12. quorums all over the world. Each 15. See Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet quorum is headed by a quorum pres- Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith hold in my hand a copy of a idency, including a president who (1976), 337–38; see also D&C 27:9; 110:13–16; 128:21. Sunday School manual titled holds keys to lead the individual 16. See Matthew 16:19; 18:18; D&C 124:93; I Leaders of the Scriptures, which priesthood quorum. 127:7; 128:8, 10; 132:46. was printed in 1947. The authors were Many of us might consider these 17. See Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, Marion G. Merkley and Gordon B. youthful leaders to be too young to 3 vols. (1954–56), 3:154–56. Hinckley. Fifty-six years ago! This hold those important, responsible 18. D&C 112:31; see also D&C 128:18. manual has been in my home for positions. Let us consider a few exam- 19. Hebrews 5:4. 20. D&C 107:3; see also Joseph Smith many years and is part of the motiva- ples of what youth really can do. Translation, Hebrews 7:3; Alma 13:1. tion for this talk. First, the prophet Jeremiah: 21. See D&C 1:20, 38; 84:19–22, 26–27; One of the most significant events “Then the word of the Lord came 107:18–20; 124:39–46; 133:6. 22. D&C 132:47. of the Restoration is that of the unto me, saying, 23. D&C 11:13–14. Aaronic Priesthood in May 1829. John “Before I formed thee in the belly I 24. See D&C 130:18–19. 25. D&C 131:2–3; second brackets are in the the Baptist appeared to the Prophet knew thee; and before thou camest original. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. forth out of the womb I sanctified 26. D&C 121:36. Joseph recounts: “While we were thee, and I ordained thee a prophet 27. See D&C 121:37. 28. See 2 Thessalonians 1:3; D&C 121:41–42. thus employed, praying and calling unto the nations. 29. D&C 121:45. upon the Lord, a messenger from “Then said I, Ah, Lord God!

NOVEMBER 2003 47 able to make thee wise.”4 As with Timothy, wouldn’t a 14- year-old teachers quorum president also be entitled to a “gift of God” when he is set apart by the bishop? Isn’t the calling of teachers quorum president also “an holy calling”? Can a 16-year-old priest be “wise”? The scriptures give us a resounding yes! One of the greatest examples of a very young man making a contribution of monumental significance is that of Mormon. Let’s read just part of his account: “And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. “And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe. . . . “And behold, [one day] ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people.”5 “. . . And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me behold, I cannot speak: for I am a the ministering of angels”? that I should be their leader, or the child. Another young man, Timothy, was leader of their armies. “But the Lord said unto me, Say a missionary companion to the “[And so] it came to pass that in not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to Apostle Paul. The epistles from Paul my sixteenth year I did go forth at the all that I shall send thee, and whatso- to Timothy are tributes to the faith head of an army of the Nephites.”6 ever I command thee thou shalt and testimony of this very young What a chronology of events in a speak. . . . man. Let me read a few extracts from young life! He began preparing for his “Then the Lord put forth his hand, those epistles: prophetic calling at age 10, receiving and touched my mouth. And the Lord “Wherefore . . . stir up the gift of knowledge of the ancient sacred said unto me, Behold, I have put my God, which is in thee by the putting records. By appointment of the peo- words in thy mouth.”2 on of my hands. . . . ple of Nephi, he became the head of If the Lord desired, couldn’t “[Christ] hath saved us, and called the Nephite armies at age 16. He also put words in the mouth us with an holy calling.”3 In June of the year I was 12 years of a 13-year-old deacons quorum “And that from a child thou hast old, I was injured in a horse accident president who “holds the keys of known the holy scriptures, which are while delivering newspapers in my old

48 hometown of Randolph, Utah. I was placed in a wheelchair for six months, until I first walked on Christmas Day. I remember the members of my deacons quorum presidency coming to my home to visit me—Dale Rex, Doug McKinnon, and others who were 13- year-old leaders in the deacons quorum presidency. They seemed to understand their responsibility to me as a member of their quorum. I recently was standing at the lug- gage retrieval at the Salt Lake City International Airport when a woman came to me and asked my name. I recognized her as a former South Rich High School classmate from years ago. She had changed since I had last seen her. You all know how you feel at the old dreaded high school reunion. She had added some gray hair and a few wrinkles. (Of course, I hadn’t changed.) It was obvi- ous that she was meeting her missionary child, who was returning from a mission. It surprised me. While she was yet in school, her family, who were not members of the Church, had moved into our small community. A priests quorum in Kaysville, could be wise as he was, then each Her name was Alice Gomez. She was Utah, decided they would not lose young man within the sound of my about the same age as me and my one member of their quorum. The voice can rise to the challenge of his friends. I remembered that she was whole quorum would go to a less- quorum responsibilities. friendly and always polite but that she active member’s home and have their The responsibilities of the Aaronic never did attend any of our Church Sunday lesson sitting around the less- Priesthood quorums are no less meetings. active boy’s bed. Soon that young important than the responsibilities of I said to her, “Alice, tell me your man joined his quorum in taking the elders quorums or high priests story. You are obviously now an active Sunday lesson to another home. groups. Remember, they hold “the member of the Church, but you never As of the year 2003, there are more keys of the ministering of angels.” We joined while we were going to school.” than 26,000 wards and branches in need young men to stand up in their Her answer was condemning: the Church, with approximately calling, knowing of their ordained “No one ever asked me!” Wow! Our 78,000 deacons, teachers, and priests right to act in the office to which they quorum really dropped the ball on quorums. Talk about an army! are appointed. that one. The contribution the quorums of I testify that these Aaronic Recently reported to me was the the Aaronic Priesthood could make Priesthood quorums hold the holy story of a young priests quorum in to the work of converting, retaining, priesthood of God. In the name of Jamaica who decided they would help and activating other members of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ the missionaries with their work. So their quorums is enormous. NOTES this quorum of young men went If 16-year-old Mormon could be 1. Joseph Smith—History 1:68–69. knocking on doors, trying to find the commanding officer of a large mil- 2. Jeremiah 1:4–7, 9. appointments for the missionaries. itary army, and if Jeremiah as a child 3. 2 Timothy 1:6, 9. 4. 2 Timothy 3:15. They soon found more referrals than could have words put in his mouth by 5. Mormon 1:1–2, 4. the missionaries could handle. the Almighty God, and if Timothy 6. Mormon 2:1–2.

NOVEMBER 2003 49 and John, on the mount, when they were transfigured before him.”7 Priesthood, Keys, The pattern of priesthood restoration described by Matthew is the same pattern followed in our dispensation. Apostles and prophets and the Power designated by the Lord to hold keys in earlier dispensations returned them to earth as this dispensation to Bless began. In contrast, 19th-century ministers ELDER MERRILL J. BATEMAN in the Palmyra environs, not under- Of the Presidency of the Seventy standing the great Apostasy that had taken place, believed in an entirely different process for priesthood It is expected that worthy holders of the Melchizedek reception. They believed that the Priesthood will use the power delegated to them power to preach came through an to bless others, starting with their own families. inner calling to a priesthood of believers. They did not understand the necessity of receiving the priesthood from a person in authority by the laying on of hands.8 Also, they did not not only the Melchizedek Priesthood understand the purpose or necessity but also “the keys of [the] kingdom.”2 of priesthood keys. Moses and Elijah returned with the The priesthood is the power “gathering” and “sealing” keys.3 The and authority of God delegated to events describing the return of the man. Priesthood keys are the right priesthood are remarkable in that to direct the use of that power. they conform precisely with the bibli- The President of the Church holds cal pattern of priesthood restoration the keys necessary for governing in earlier dispensations. For example, the entire Church. His counselors consider the restoration and transfer in the First Presidency and the of priesthood powers during the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Savior’s time. also hold the keys of the kingdom Near the end of His ministry, Jesus and operate under the President’s promised Peter “the keys of the king- direction. Stake presidents, bishops, dom,”4 knowing that Jesus would and temple, mission, and quorum soon leave and that priesthood keys presidents are given keys to guide were needed by the Apostles if they the Church in their jurisdictions. ne of the remarkable evi- were to direct the work after His Their counselors do not hold keys dences of the Restoration is ascension. In order for them to but “receive delegated authority by Othe testimony of Joseph Smith receive the keys, Matthew records calling and assignment.”9 and Oliver Cowdery regarding the that Jesus took “Peter, James, and Priesthood and priesthood keys manner in which the priesthood and John . . . up into an high mountain” open the door to the blessings of the its directing powers were returned to where He “was transfigured before Atonement. Through the power of the earth. In each case, priesthood and them” and Moses and Elias “appeared priesthood, people are baptized for priesthood keys were restored by unto them.”5 Shortly after this event, the remission of sins, made possible divine messengers who had held the Savior declared that the Apostles by the Savior’s great act of mercy. A them in earlier times. John the Baptist now had the keys to direct the min- holder of the Melchizedek Priesthood brought back the Aaronic Priesthood istry.6 The Prophet Joseph Smith may confer the Holy Ghost. Through with the keys of repentance and bap- states that “the Savior, Moses, and the bestowal of the Holy Ghost, mem- tism.1 Peter, James, and John restored Elias, gave the keys to Peter, James bers are cleansed with fire, guided

50 into truth, comforted, sanctified, and blessed in many ways as partakers of the fruits of the Atonement. The sealing authority may bind a man, a woman, and their children together forever, making possible exaltations in the world to come—again, a blessing from the Savior. It is expected that worthy holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood will use the power delegated to them to bless others, starting with their own families. One of the great inheritances of the Restoration is that a father ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood has the right to bless his wife and children when prompted and when a blessing is desired by them. Many years ago, our family had an experience which left an indelible impression as to the importance and value and power of a father’s blessing. The lessons learned may be of interest to you. the principle of agency, we were not the brakes and swerved in an attempt When our oldest children were about to force a blessing on an eight- to miss the boy. Unfortunately, the ready to begin formal schooling, year-old. All of the children except side of the front fender and bumper Sister Bateman and I decided that a Michael received a blessing that year. hit Michael and threw him down the father’s blessing would be given each The school year proceeded nor- highway. child at the beginning of the school mally. Michael and the other children A short time later, Sister Bateman year. The family home evening pre- did well in school, and the family and I received a telephone call from ceding the start of school would be enjoyed their associations together. the police. Michael, in critical condi- the occasion. The year our oldest son, Then the following May arrived, and it tion, was in an ambulance on his way Michael, entered the third grade was time for Little League baseball to to the hospital. It was important that holds special memories for us. During begin. Following the last day of we hurry. Before leaving, I called a the preceding summer he had partici- school, Michael’s coach called a team friend and asked him to meet us at pated in Little League baseball. He practice. Michael’s anticipation could the hospital and assist in giving a loved the sport. When we gathered not have been greater. His dream was blessing. The 20-minute drive was the for family home evening just be- about to be realized. He was to be the longest of our lives. We prayed fer- fore the start of school, Michael starting catcher. The baseball diamond vently for the life of our son and to announced that he did not need a was only a few blocks from our home. know the will of the Lord. blessing. He had completed his first The boys and the coach walked to the As we parked the car by the door of season in Little League, and blessings baseball field, crossing a busy highway. the emergency room, we saw a police- were for younger children. Following the practice, the boys and man exiting with a young man who was Sister Bateman and I were coach started for home. Michael and crying. The policeman recognized us stunned. We encouraged him, sug- a friend ran on ahead of the coach and introduced the young man as the gesting that a blessing would help and the other boys. As the two boys driver of the car. We knew enough of him with his schoolwork. It would be approached the busy highway, Michael the story to put our arms around him a protection to him. It would help failed to look and darted in front of a and tell him that we knew it was not his him in his relations with his brothers, car driven by a 16-year-old young man fault. We then entered the hospital to sisters, and friends. Our encourage- out for his first drive. Can you imagine find Michael. As we entered his room, ment, along with some coaxing, the fear that must have struck the the doctors and nurses were working failed. He was too old. Believing in young man’s heart? He slammed on feverishly, attending to his needs. My

NOVEMBER 2003 51 Members of a choir from the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, sing during the priesthood session.

friend had arrived, and we asked if it passed, and the body cast was trees asking to know which church is would be possible to have two or three replaced with a cast from his hip to right. I will be eternally grateful for minutes alone with him. My priesthood his toes. Two days before school was the answer he received and the subse- brother anointed, and I sealed. As I laid to begin, the final cast was removed. quent restoration of the priesthood my hands upon Michael’s head, a feel- As the family gathered the next night and its keys through John the Baptist; ing of comfort and peace came over for school blessings, is there any won- Peter, James, and John; and other me, words flowed, and promises were der as to who wanted the first bless- holy messengers. May we use this made. He was then rushed to the oper- ing? A nine-year-old boy, a little older great power to bless all of God’s chil- ating room. and a lot wiser, was first in line. dren, beginning with our own fami- For the next four weeks, Michael Over the years our children have lies, is my prayer in the name of Jesus lay in a hospital bed with his head come to understand that accidents Christ, amen. ■ bandaged and his leg in traction. Each are not always prevented by priest- NOTES Wednesday, his Little League team- hood blessings, but they also know 1. See D&C 13; Joseph Smith—History 1:68–72. mates would visit him after the that more than one type of protection 2. See D&C 27:12–13. game and give him a report. Each is available through the priesthood. 3. See D&C 110:11–16. Wednesday, tears would well up in Today, our grandchildren are the 4. See Matthew 16:19. 5. Matthew 17:1–3. Michael’s eyes and run down his recipients of priesthood blessings. 6. See Matthew 18:18; D&C 7:7. cheeks as the boys relived the game. The tradition is in the second and 7. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 158. After four weeks in traction, Michael third generations. We believe that this 8. See Milton V. Backman Jr., Christian was put in a body cast from his chest practice, like the family, will prevail Churches of America: Origins and Beliefs, to his toes. On two or three occasions through the eternities. rev. ed. (1976, 1983), 54–55. 9. Church Handbook of Instructions, we took him to a game to watch his I am so grateful that a 14-year-old Book 2: Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders friends play. Another four weeks boy, Joseph Smith, entered a grove of (1998), 161.

52 friend had no coat. Grandfather took off his coat and gave it to him. The Phenomenon This evening I encourage you young men to begin to unlock the knowledge of who you really are by learning more about your forebears. That Is You Alex Haley, the author of the book Roots, said: “In all of us there is a PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST hunger, marrow-deep, to know our Second Counselor in the First Presidency heritage—to know who we are and where we have come from. Without Begin to unlock the knowledge of who you really are this enriching knowledge, there is a by learning more about your forebears. hollow yearning. No matter what our attainments in life, there is still a vac- uum, an emptiness, and the most dis- quieting loneliness.”1 We can have exciting experiences as we learn As she watched Selina care for her 10- about our vibrant, dynamic ancestors. month-old baby girl, she no doubt They were very real, living people ached for the love of her own mother. with problems, hopes, and dreams Sometimes she would even ask, like we have today. “Where is my mother?” In many ways each of us is the sum My heart goes out to this little girl total of what our ancestors were. The when I think of her facing her uncer- virtues they had may be our virtues, tain future with no blood relatives to their strengths our strengths, and in a comfort and help her. Elsie Ann was way their challenges could be our my great-grandmother, and only challenges. Some of their traits may be recently did we find out who her our traits. I noticed a while ago that mother really was. For years we one of my great-grandsons, a toddler, thought Elsie Ann was Jane Robison’s seemed to have an interesting kind of daughter. Careful research discovered a walk. My wife said, “He walks just her true parentage, and after all these like you do!” Now I wonder from years Elsie Ann now has been sealed whom I inherited this characteristic. to her father, John Akerley, and her It is a joy to become acquainted y dear brethren of the priest- mother, Mary Moore. with our forebears who died long ago. hood of God all over the My grandparents have had a great Each of us has a fascinating family his- Mworld, we extend to each of influence on my life. Even though tory. Finding your ancestors can be you our love and greetings wherever they have been dead for many years, I one of the most interesting puzzles you are. still feel their confirming love. One you young men can work on. Picture with me a little six-year-old grandfather, James Akerley Faust, died Each of us has to begin this orphan girl traveling across the plains before I was born. I knew him only work somewhere, and it can be of America. Her name is Elsie Ann. Her through the stories my grandmother done by young or old. This summer mother died when she was two. Her and my parents told about him. 170 children of the Accra Ghana father remarried, and so for a time she However, I feel a strong kinship with Lartebiokorshie Stake worked on had a stepmother. Then her father him because I am in part what he was. their four-generation family trees died at Winter Quarters when she was Among other things, he was a cow- during a two-hour program, with five. Her stepmother remarried and boy, a rancher, and a postmaster in a more than 74 completing and dis- moved away, leaving this little orphan small town in central Utah. On one playing their trees. behind with Peter and Selina Robison, occasion Grandfather took a trip in As President Boyd K. Packer has who were related to her stepmother. the winter to Idaho, where he met an said, “If you don’t know where to Elsie Ann left Winter Quarters with the acquaintance who had fallen on hard start, start with yourself. If you don’t Robisons in July of 1849 to come west. times. It was cold, and Grandfather’s know what records to get, and how to

NOVEMBER 2003 53 get them, start with what you have.”2 immense resources for your search. for them. It is essential because “we You will learn about the phenomenon You can easily access a vast collection without them cannot be made per- that is you. It can be more fascinating of family history records using the fect; neither can they without us be than any movie you might see or any Internet on your home computer or made perfect.”3 They need the saving computer game you might play. You at your nearest family history center. ordinances, and we need to be sealed will need to find out who your grand- Family history centers are now to them. For this reason it is impor- parents and great-grandparents were available in 88 countries. They are tant that we trace our family lines so and what temple work has been done part of an unequaled record-keeping that no one is left out. for them. If you don’t know how to system that helps preserve the her- Searching for our kindred dead get this information, ask people in itage of families all over the world. In isn’t just a hobby. It is a fundamental your ward who do know how. the Family History Library in Salt Lake responsibility for all members of the Ask living members of your family City, patrons are constantly corre- Church. We believe that life continues what they know about your extended sponding and submitting information after death and that all will be resur- family. Look at records close at hand, about their family histories. One per- rected.4 We believe that families may such as family Bibles, to find more son wrote, “We are sending you five continue in the next life if they have details about your forebears. Then children in a separate envelope.” kept the special covenants made in you can reach out to other sources The great work of providing the one of the sacred temples under the such as vital records, church records, saving ordinances for our kindred authority of God. We believe that our census records, and military records. dead is a vital part of the threefold deceased ancestors can also be eter- If you have access to a computer, mission of the Church. We do this nally united with their families when you can put your computer skills to work for a purpose, which is to we make covenants in their behalf in work and log on to the Church’s redeem our dead ancestors. Temple the temples. Our deceased forebears FamilySearch.org Web site. Family work is essential for both us and our may accept these covenants, if they history has become a sophisticated kindred dead who are waiting for choose to do so, in the spirit world.5 activity where computers provide these saving ordinances to be done The great vicarious work for our

54 kindred dead in our temples demon- back several generations. But still he strates both the justice and the fairness needed to bridge the gap between the of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The 1800s and the 1600s. Then a miracle Prophet Joseph Smith explained the occurred. He unexpectedly located a terrible dilemma which would face history of a Syring family. The families God’s children without temple work in the Syring book ended in the same for our dead. Said he: “One dies and is generation he had reached in his own buried, having never heard the Gospel research. Not only was he able to con- of reconciliation; to the other the mes- nect many generations, but he also sage of salvation is sent, he hears and linked himself to the early settler embraces it, and is made the heir of Simon Searing.11 eternal life. Shall the one become the Some who are interested in family partaker of glory and the other be con- history try to enhance their own signed to hopeless perdition? Is there image by linking up with prominent no chance for his escape?”6 Fortunately people. In my own experience it has our ancestors will have the opportu- been quite different. I have been fasci- nity to receive and accept the saving hours into their research, he nated by learning of some of the ordinances as we identify them and exclaimed, “Mama, I’ve found unknown, ordinary people whose complete these sacred ordinances for Grandpa!” Indeed, he had found his records tell of heroic lives. Arthur R. them by proxy. We do for them what great-great-great-grandfather.9 Bassett once said: “Who among us they cannot do for themselves. It is a However, it doesn’t always work that wants to throw stones at their own very satisfying experience. way. In a letter to the Family History ancestors? I, for one, am intrigued by In the great vision in the Kirtland Department, someone wrote: “We their battles—their victories as well as Temple, Elijah the prophet appeared lost our grandmother. Will you please their defeats. . . . I am fascinated by to the Prophet Joseph Smith and send us a copy?” what may seem the most common- Oliver Cowdery and committed the The gospel of Jesus Christ teaches place of lives, because I have come to keys of temple work and the sealing us that the celestial family organiza- realize the excitement that is con- power into Joseph Smith’s hands.7 tion will be “one that is complete,” cealed in the commonplace.”12 This fulfilled Malachi’s prophecy that that is, “an organization linked from It is not likely that you will find Elijah would be sent “to turn the father and mother and children of any horse thieves in your ancestral hearts of the fathers to the children, one generation, to the father and line. But if you do, it is important and the children to the fathers, lest the mother and children of the next gen- that their temple work be done, whole earth be smitten with a curse.”8 eration, thus expanding and spread- because we believe in repentance for So what does this mean? To turn ing out down to the end of time.”10 the dead also: our hearts to our fathers is to search In tracing our family names, we “The dead who repent will be out the names of our deceased ances- often find them spelled differently, redeemed, through obedience to the tors and to perform the saving ordi- depending on the source. This was the ordinances of the house of God, nances in the temple for them. This case of a university student in Provo, “And after they have paid the will forge a continuous chain between Utah, who caught the vision of this penalty of their transgressions, and us and our forefathers eventually all linking of generations. He was walking are washed clean, shall receive a the way back to Father Adam and through the library one evening and reward according to their works, for Mother Eve. remembered hearing someone in the they are heirs of salvation.”13 The heart of an 11-year-old boy Searing family tell about a town in New The process of finding our ances- was turned to his fathers during a York State that had been named after tors one by one can be challenging but family home evening when the chil- an ancestor. So he decided to look up also exciting and rewarding. We often dren assembled personal books of the town. He stumbled across a very feel spiritual guidance as we go to the remembrance. Young Jeff wanted to old copy of a gazetteer of New York sources which identify them. Because accompany his mother to the and read about a man named Simon this is a very spiritual work, we can National Archives. She was afraid he Searing who helped settle Long Island expect help from the other side of the might disturb the other researchers in the mid-1600s. Could Simon be his veil. We feel a pull from our relatives there. But he persisted, and she ancestor? He had to know. He began who are waiting for us to find them so relented and took him with her. Four research in earnest and traced his line their ordinance work can be done.

NOVEMBER 2003 55 This is a Christlike service because we are doing something for them that they cannot do for themselves. Bring Him Home Many of you young men have already had a taste of temple work as PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON you have participated in baptisms for First Counselor in the First Presidency the dead. When we go early to the temple, we often see young people dressed in white, ready to take part in We can, with the Lord’s help, reach out and rescue those this satisfying experience before going for whom we have responsibility. to school. You are to be commended for your dedication in performing this vital work. In so doing you have already felt the peace and serenity Priesthood, we are duty bound by the found within the walls of our temples. Lord’s revelation found in the 107th I testify that God is a just God, and section of the Doctrine and He will not give privileges to us and Covenants, verse 99: “Wherefore, now withhold them from our forebears. let every man learn his duty, and to But we will need to do the baptisms, act in the office in which he is the endowments, and the sealings for appointed, in all diligence.” them by proxy here on earth in order As our youngest son, Clark, was for us and them to be linked together approaching his 12th birthday, he and for eternity “and have part in the first I were leaving the Church Admini- resurrection.”14 stration Building when President I further testify that the Lord directs Harold B. Lee approached and greeted and inspires President Hinckley as he us. I mentioned that Clark would soon leads us in this important work. May be 12, whereupon President Lee the peace that comes from faithful dis- turned to him and asked, “What hap- charge of our priesthood duties ever pens to you when you turn 12?” be with us, in the name of Jesus Christ, This was one of those times when a amen. ■ y dear brethren, it is a hum- father prays that a son will be inspired NOTES bling experience to stand to give a proper response. Clark, with- 1. “What Roots Means to Me,” Reader’s Digest, before you this evening and out hesitation, said to President Lee, “I May 1977, 73–74. M to realize that beyond the imposing will be ordained a deacon!” 2. “Your Family History: Getting Started,” Liahona and Ensign, Aug. 2003, 15. audience in this, the Conference The answer was the one President 3. D&C 128:18. Center, many hundreds of thousands Lee had sought. He then counseled 4. See Acts 24:15; Alma 11:41–45. 5. See “Why Family History?” Internet, of priesthood bearers are similarly our son, “Remember, it is a great www.familysearch.org. assembled throughout the world. blessing to hold the priesthood.” 6. History of the Church, 4:425–26. While contemplating the responsi- When I was a boy, I looked forward 7. See D&C 110:13–14, 16. 8. See D&C 110:14–15. bility to speak to you, I recalled a defi- to passing the sacrament to the ward 9. R. Scott Lloyd, “Hearts of the Children,” nition of priesthood authority declared members. We deacons were trained as Church News, 14 Sept. 1986, 16. by President Stephen L Richards. Said to our duties. One of the men in our 10. Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, he: “The Priesthood is usually simply ward, Louis, suffered from palsy. His 3 vols. (1954–56), 2:175. defined as ‘the power of God dele- head and hands shook so violently 11. Bryan Searing, “The Link Made,” Church gated to man.’ This definition, I think, that he could not, by himself, partake News, 27 Oct. 1990, 16. 12. “The Relationship of Genealogy and is accurate. But for practical purposes I of the sacrament. Each deacon knew History,” in Proceedings of the 1980 World like to define the Priesthood in terms that his duty in serving Louis was to Conference on Records, 13 vols., Archives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day of service and I frequently call it ‘the hold the bread to his lips so that he Saints, 2:4. perfect plan of service.’ ”1 might partake and to similarly place 13. D&C 138:58–59. Whether we hold the office of a the cup of water to his mouth with 14. Wilford Woodruff, The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, sel. G. Homer Durham deacon in the Aaronic Priesthood or one hand, while steadying his head (1946), 149. that of an elder in the Melchizedek with the other, the tray being held

56 by another deacon while doing so. every man that asketh you a reason of To those who have been absent Always Louis would say, “Thank you.” the hope that is in you.”2 from home and family, whether in the It was 40 years ago this conference I began my remarks by referring military, on missions, or for other pur- time when President David O. McKay to a letter which I had received from poses, the holiday season brings forth called me to serve as a member of the one of the servicemen from our ward a yearning—even a longing—to be Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. At the who was serving on the front lines in together with loved ones. To hear the first meeting of the Presidency and Korea during that sometimes forgot- laughter of children, to witness the Twelve which I attended where the ten war. The writer told how, amidst expression of love by parents, and to sacrament was served, President the shelling on Sunday morning, sev- feel the embrace of brothers and sis- McKay announced, “Before we par- eral in his platoon partook of the ters provide a preview of heaven and take of the sacrament, I would like to bread and then the water, both the eternal joy to be found there. ask our newest member of this body, served from a helmet. Each remem- One December evening, while Brother Monson, if he would instruct bered the significance of the blessing waiting to board a plane en route to the First Presidency and Twelve on the pronounced on the sacred emblems the United States, Sister Monson and I atoning sacrifice of our Lord and and his individual responsibility to were standing in the stifling heat and Savior Jesus Christ.” It was then that I keep the commandments of the Lord humidity of Singapore, when over the gained a true understanding of the old and to follow the Lord’s example of airport loudspeaker system came a adage: “When the time for decision service to others. familiar, lilting melody, with Bing arrives, the time for preparation is The memory of that particular Crosby singing the words: past.” It was also the time to remem- experience with the First Presidency ber the counsel found in 1 Peter: “Be and Quorum of the Twelve has not I’ll be home for Christmas; ready always to give an answer to dimmed in the intervening 40 years. You can plan on me.

NOVEMBER 2003 57 Please have snow and mistletoe left the words ringing in the summer Father, how great will be your joy And presents on the tree. air: “I love you.” if you should bring many souls Christmas Eve will find me It was then that Jack realized that unto me!”7 Where the love-light gleams. the next move was up to him. He As presidencies of Aaronic I’ll be home for Christmas knew the only way he could ever find Priesthood quorums, as advisers to If only in my dreams.3 peace with himself was to demon- these quorums, we can, with the strate to his father the same kind of Lord’s help, reach out and rescue The First Presidency has long maturity, goodness, and love that Dad those for whom we have responsibil- emphasized the statement, “The had shown toward him. Jack got off ity. Young men, with a smile on your home is the basis of a righteous the bus. He bought a return ticket face and determination in your heart, life and no other instrumentality can and went back. you can take, arm in arm, a less-active take its place nor fulfill its essential He arrived shortly after midnight, boy and together come to priesthood functions.”4 entered the house, turned on the meeting and learn of the Lord and There are those families comprised light. There in the rocking chair sat what He has prepared for you to do. of mothers and fathers, sons and his father, his head in his hands. As he You are entitled to His divine help, for daughters who have, through thought- looked up and saw Jack, he arose He has promised you: “I will go less comment, isolated themselves from the chair and they rushed into before your face. I will be on your from one another. An account of how each other’s arms. Jack often said, right hand and on your left, and my such a tragedy was narrowly averted “Those last years that I was home Spirit shall be in your hearts, and occurred many years ago in the life of were among the happiest of my life.” mine angels round about you, to bear a young man who, for purposes of pri- We could say that here was a boy you up.”8 vacy, I shall call Jack. who overnight became a man. Here Brethren of the Melchizedek Throughout Jack’s life, he and his was a father who, suppressing passion Priesthood, you have the same sacred father had many serious arguments. and bridling pride, rescued his son charge and obligation as pertains to One day, when he was 17, they had a before he became one of that vast, your duties to other men and to their particularly violent one. Jack said to “lost battalion” resulting from frac- families. And you have the same prom- his father, “This is the straw that tured families and shattered homes. ise of the Lord to attend your efforts. breaks the camel’s back. I’m leaving Love was the binding band, the heal- As you succeed, you will be home, and I shall never return.” So ing balm. Love so often felt, so sel- answering a mother’s prayer, the ten- saying, he went to the house and dom expressed. der though unexpressed feelings of packed his bag. His mother begged From Mount Sinai there thunders in children’s hearts; and your names will him to stay; he was too angry to lis- our ears, “Honour thy father and thy forever be honored by those whom ten. He left her crying at the doorway. mother.”5 And later from the Lord the you reach out and help. Leaving the yard, he was about to injunction, “Live together in love.”6 Let me share with you a rather pri- pass through the gate when he heard Brethren, ours is the responsibility, vate but joyful example from my own his father call to him, “Jack, I know yes, even the solemn duty, to reach out experience. that a large share of the blame for your to those who have slipped into inactiv- As a bishop, I worried about any leaving rests with me. For this I am ity or strayed from the family circle. members who were inactive, not truly sorry. I want you to know that if Recall with me the beautiful words attending, not serving. Such was my you should ever wish to return home, of the Lord’s revelation from section thought one day as I drove down the you’ll always be welcome. And I’ll try 18 of the Doctrine and Covenants: street where Ben and Emily Fullmer to be a better father to you. I want you “Remember the worth of souls is lived. Aches and pains of advancing to know that I’ll always love you.” great in the sight of God. . . . years caused them to withdraw from Jack said nothing but went to the “And if it so be that you should activity to the shelter of their home— bus station and bought a ticket to a labor all your days in crying repen- isolated, detached, shut out from the distant point. As he sat on the bus, tance unto this people, and bring, mainstream of daily life and associa- watching the miles go by, he com- save it be one soul unto me, how tion. Ben and Emily had not been in menced to think about the words of great shall be your joy with him in the our sacrament meeting for many his father. He began to realize how kingdom of my Father! years. Ben, a former bishop, would sit much love it had required for him to “And now, if your joy will be great constantly in his front room reading do what he had done. Dad had apolo- with one soul that you have brought and memorizing the New Testament. gized. He had invited him back and unto me into the kingdom of my I was en route from my uptown

58 sales office to our plant on Industrial God on high, Road. For some reason I had driven Hear my prayer; down First West, a street which I In my need never had traveled before to reach You have always been there. the destination of our plant. Then I felt the unmistakable prompting to He is young, park my car and visit Ben and Emily, He’s afraid; even though I was on my way to a Let him rest, meeting. I did not heed the impres- Heaven blessed. sion at first but drove on for two Bring him home. . . . more blocks; however, when the impression came again, I returned to Bring him peace, their home. Bring him joy. It was a sunny weekday afternoon. He is young; I approached the door to their home He is only a boy. and knocked. I heard the tiny fox ter- rier dog bark at my approach. Emily You can take, welcomed me in. Upon seeing me, You can give; she exclaimed, “All day long I have Let him be, waited for my phone to ring. It has Let him live. been silent. I hoped the postman If I die, let me die, would deliver a letter. He brought Let him live. only bills. Bishop, how did you know Bring him home.9 today is my birthday?” I answered, “God knows, Emily, for Brethren, as we go forward as He loves you.” bearers of the priesthood of God, In the quiet of their living room, I learning our duty and then reaching said to Ben and Emily, “I really don’t choir will sing. Would you join the out to our brethren who stand in know why I was directed here today, choir and attend our ward conference need of our help, let us look upward but I was. Our Heavenly Father and perhaps sing a solo?” to our Heavenly Father, who is the knows. Let’s kneel in prayer and ask “What will the number be?” she Father of us all. We may not hear His Him why.” This we did, and the inquired. voice, but we will remember His salu- answer came. As we arose from our “I don’t know,” I said, “but I’d like tation, “Well done, thou good and knees, I said to Brother Fullmer, “Ben, you to sing it.” faithful servant.”10 would you come to priesthood meet- She sang. He spoke to the Aaronic And within our hearts we will rec- ing when we meet with all the priest- Priesthood. Hearts were gladdened by ognize His unspoken plea: Bring him hood and relate to our Aaronic the return to activity of Ben and home. In the name of Jesus Christ, Priesthood boys the story you once Emily. They rarely missed a sacrament amen. ■ told me when I was a boy, how you meeting from that day forward. The and a group of boys were en route to language of the Spirit had been spo- NOTES the Jordan River to swim one Sunday, ken. It had been heard. It had been 1. In Conference Report, Apr. 1937, 46. but you felt the Spirit direct you to understood. Hearts were touched and 2. 1 Peter 3:15. 3. Kim Gannon and Walter Kent, “I’ll Be attend Sunday School. And you did. souls saved. Ben and Emily Fullmer Home for Christmas,” 1943. One of the boys who failed to had come home. 4. J. Reuben Clark Jr., meeting of general respond to that Spirit drowned that One of the longest-running musi- Church auxiliary executives, 29 Mar. 1940; see also “Letter from the First Presidency,” Sunday. Our boys would like to hear cals in history is Les Miserables. The Liahona, Dec. 1999, 1; “Policies, your testimony.” story is set in the period of the French Announcements, and Appointments,” Ensign, June 1999, 80. “I’ll do it,” he responded. Revolution. The principal character in 5. Exodus 20:12. I then said to Sister Fullmer, “Emily, the musical is Jean Valjean. In his 6. D&C 42:45. I know you have a beautiful voice. My heartfelt concern for the young man, 7. D&C 18:10, 15–16. 8. D&C 84:88. mother has told me so. Our ward con- Marius, who is going off to battle, he 9. Herbert Kretzmer, “Bring Him Home.” ference is a few weeks away, and our expresses in song a sincere prayer: 10. Matthew 25:21.

NOVEMBER 2003 59 house, having his children in subjec- tion with all gravity; The Shepherds “(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) “Not a novice, lest being lifted up of Israel with pride he fall into the condemna- tion of the devil” (1 Timothy 3:2–6). PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY In his letter to Titus, Paul adds that “a bishop must be blameless, as the I thank the Lord for good bishops in this Church.... steward of God; . . . May you know that peace which comes alone from God “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may to those who serve Him. be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsay- ers” (Titus 1:7, 9). Those words aptly describe a help as they carry their heavy loads. bishop today in The Church of Jesus We can be more supportive and less Christ of Latter-day Saints. dependent upon them. We can assist Let me now speak directly to the them in every way possible. We can thousands of bishops who are in thank them for all that they do for us. attendance tonight. Let me say first We are wearing them out in a short that I love you for your integrity and time by the burdens which we impose goodness. You must be men of upon them. integrity. You must stand as examples We have more than 18,000 bishops to the congregations over which you in the Church. Every one is a man preside. You must stand on higher who has been called by the spirit of ground so that you can lift others. You prophecy and revelation and set apart must be absolutely honest, for you and ordained by the laying on of handle the funds of the Lord, the hands. Every one of them holds the tithes of the people, the offerings that keys of the presidency of his ward. come of their fasting, and the contri- Each is a high priest, the presiding butions which they make from their high priest of his ward. Each carries own strained resources. How great is rethren, tonight I am going to tremendous responsibilities of stew- your trust as the keepers of the purse do something a little unusual. I ardship. Each stands as a father to his of the Lord! Bam going to repeat some ele- people. Your goodness must be as an ments of a talk which I gave 15 years None receives money for his serv- ensign to your people. Your morals ago in our general priesthood meet- ice. No ward bishop is compensated must be impeccable. The wiles of the ing. I am going to speak of and to the by the Church for his work as a adversary may be held before you bishops of the Church, this wonderful bishop. because he knows that if he can body of men who are in a very real The requirements of a bishop destroy you, he can injure an entire sense the shepherds of Israel. today are as they were in the days of ward. You must exercise wisdom in all Everyone who participates in this Paul, who wrote to Timothy: of your relationships lest someone conference is accountable to a bishop “A bishop then must be blameless, read into your observed actions some or a branch president. Tremendous the husband of one wife, vigilant, taint of moral sin. You cannot suc- are the burdens which they carry, and sober, of good behaviour, given to cumb to the temptation to read I invite every member of the Church hospitality, apt to teach; pornographic literature or even in the to do all that he or she can to lift the “Not given to wine, no striker [that secrecy of your own chamber to view burden under which our bishops and is, not a bully or a violent person], . . . pornographic films. Your moral branch presidents labor. not a brawler, not covetous; strength must be such that if ever you We must pray for them. They need “One that ruleth well his own are called upon to sit in judgment on

60 the questionable morals of others, must go hungry or without clothing I desperately called you asking for you may do so without personal com- or shelter though they be reluctant to help. At that time I was ready to kill promise or embarrassment. ask. You must know something of the myself. I had no one else to turn to— You cannot use your office as circumstances of all of the flock over no money, no job, no friends. My bishop to further your own business whom you preside. house had been taken, and I had no interests lest through some ensuing You must be their counselor, their place to live. The Church was my last financial mishap accusation be placed comforter, their anchor and strength hope. against you by those who succumbed in times of sorrow and trouble. You “As you know, I had left the Church to your persuasiveness. must be strong with that strength at the age of 17 and had broken just You cannot compromise your qual- which comes from the Lord. You must about every rule and commandment ifications to sit as a common judge in be wise with that wisdom which that there was in my search for happi- Israel. It is a fearsome and awesome comes from the Lord. Your door must ness and fulfillment. Instead of happi- responsibility to stand as a judge of be open to hear their cries and your ness, my life was filled with misery, the people. You must be their judge back strong to carry their burdens, anguish, and despair. There was no in some instances as to worthiness to your heart sensitive to judge their hope or future for me. I even pleaded hold membership in the Church, wor- needs, your godly love broad enough with God to let me die, to take me thiness to enter the house of the and strong enough to encompass out of my misery. Not even He Lord, worthiness to be baptized, wor- even the wrongdoer and the critic. wanted me. I felt that He had rejected thiness to receive the priesthood, You must be a man of patience, will- me, too. worthiness to serve missions, worthi- ing to listen and striving to under- “That’s when I turned to you and ness to teach and to serve as officers stand. You are the only one to whom the Church. . . . in the organizations. You must be the some can turn. You must be there “You listened with understanding, judge of their eligibility in times of when every other source has failed. you counseled, you guided, you distress to receive help from the fast Permit me to read you a few lines helped. offerings of the people and commodi- from a letter sent to a bishop. “I began to grow and develop in ties from the storehouse of the Lord. “Dear Bishop: understanding and knowledge of the None for whom you are responsible “It has been almost two years since gospel. I found that I had to make

NOVEMBER 2003 61 certain basic changes in my life that call concerning cases of abuse which as the load may be, you know this is were terribly difficult, but that within me may come to you. the sweetest, the most rewarding, the I had the worth and strength to do so. You as an individual preside over most important thing you have ever “I learned that as I lived the gospel the Aaronic Priesthood of the ward. done outside the walls of your own and repented, I had no more fear. I You are their leader, their teacher, home. was filled with an inner peace. The their example, whether you wish to I thank the Lord for you. I thank clouds of anguish and despair were be or not. You are the presiding high the Lord for good bishops in this gone. Because of the Atonement, my priest, the father to the ward family, to Church throughout the world. I pray weaknesses and sins were forgiven be called upon as arbiter in disagree- for you, all 18,000 of you. I plead with through Jesus Christ and His love ments, as defender of the accused. you to be strong. I plead with you to for me. You preside in meetings where the be true. I plead with you to be “He has blessed and strengthened doctrine is taught. You are account- uncompromising in your own lives me. He has opened pathways for me, able for the spiritual nature of those and in the goals you set for others. given me direction, and kept me from meetings and for the administration Though your days be long and weari- harm. I have found that as I overcame of the sacrament to the members, some, may your rest be sweet and in each obstacle, my business began to that all may be reminded of sacred your hearts may you know that peace grow, enabling my family to benefit covenants and obligations incumbent which comes alone from God to and making me feel as though I had upon those who have taken upon those who serve Him. accomplished something. them the name of the Lord. I bear testimony of the strength “Bishop, you have given me under- You must stand as the strong friend and goodness of the bishops of this standing and support through these of the widow and the orphan, the Church. I pay tribute to counselors past two years. I never would have weak and the beleaguered, the who help them and to all who serve reached this point if not for your love attacked and the helpless. under their direction in response to and patience. Thank you for being The sound of your trumpet must the calls they make. what you are as the servant of the Lord be certain and unequivocal. In your We do not expect the impossible to help me, His wandering child.” ward you stand as the head of the from you. We ask that you do the very Bishops, you stand as watchmen army of the Lord, leading them on to best you can. Delegate to others every on the tower of the wards over which victory in the conquest against sin, aspect of the work that you legiti- you preside. There are many teachers indifference, and apostasy. mately can. And then leave matters in in each ward. But you must be the I know that the work is hard at the hands of the Lord. chief teacher among them. You must times. There are never enough hours Someday you will be released. It see that there is no false doctrine to get it done. The calls are numer- will be a time of sadness for you. But creeping in among the people. You ous and frequent. You have other there will be comfort as your people must see that they grow in faith and things to do. That is true. You must thank you. Nor will they ever forget testimony, in integrity and righteous- not rob your employer of the time you. They will remember you and ness and a sense of service. You must and energy that are rightfully his. You speak with appreciation through see that their love for the Lord must not rob your family of time years to come, for among all Church strengthens and manifests itself in which belongs to them. But as most officers you are nearest to them. You greater love for one another. of you have come to know, as you have been called, ordained, and set You must be their confessor, privy seek for divine guidance, you are apart as shepherds to the flock. You to their deepest secrets, holding blessed with wisdom beyond your have been endowed with discern- absolutely inviolate the confidences own and strength and capacity you ment, judgment, and love to bless placed in you. Yours is a privileged did not know you had. It is possible their lives. In the process, you will communication that must be guarded to budget your time so that you neg- bless your own. and respected against all intruders. lect neither your employer, your fam- I bear testimony of the divine There may be temptations to tell. You ily, nor your flock. nature of your calling and of the mag- cannot succumb. God bless the good bishops of The nificent way in which you fulfill it. May Unless specifically mandated by Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day you, your counselors, your wives, and legal requirement in cases of abuse, Saints. You may on occasion be your children be blessed as you serve what is told to you in confidence inclined to complain about the bur- the children of the Lord, I humbly must remain with you. The Church dens of your office. But you also pray, in the sacred name of Jesus maintains a hotline which you should know the joys of your service. Heavy Christ, amen. ■

62 Members attend conference broadcasts in Guatemala (top and lower left) and Japan (lower right). The Japanese sisters are watching the general Relief Society meeting.

NOVEMBER 2003 63 AINTS S November 2003 DAY - ATTER L Merrill J. Bateman Dieter F. Uchtdorf Dieter F. Russell M. Nelson Dallin H. Oaks Jeffrey R. Holland Henry B. Eyring HRIST OF Second Counselor C President James E. Faust President Charles Didier ESUS J Robert D. Hales Dennis B. Neuenschwander President Gordon B. Hinckley President THE FIRST PRESIDENCY HURCH OF Richard G. Scott C David E. Sorensen THE PRESIDENCY OF THE SEVENTY THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE HE T First Counselor D. Todd Christofferson D. Todd President Thomas S. Monson President Joseph B. Wirthlin Earl C. Tingey Boyd K. Packer Perry L. Tom David B. Haight Neal A. Maxwell M. Russell Ballard UTHORITIES OF A ENERAL G Robert C. Oaks R. Conrad Schultz William R. Walker Ronald T. Halverson Ronald T. Darwin B. Christenson Merrill C. Oaks Ned B. Roueché H. Ross Workman Val R. Christensen Val H. Aldridge Gillespie Dale E. Miller D. Rex Gerratt H. Bryan Richards Shirley D. Christensen Daryl H. Garn Robert R. Steuer David R. Stone H. Bruce Stucki Clate W. Mask Jr. Richard H. Winkel Robert S. Wood Wayne S. Peterson Craig C. Christensen (in alphabetical order) Gerald N. Lund James M. Dunn Donald L. Staheli Robert J. Whetten Douglas L. Callister William W. Parmley William W. Parmley THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY Spencer V. Jones Spencer V. E. Ray Bateman Stephen A. West Adhemar Damiani Stephen B. Oveson Dennis E. Simmons Second Counselor Keith B. McMullin Keith Crockett Keith K. Hilbig Robert F. Orton Robert F. Gordon T. Watts Gordon T. Mervyn B. Arnold W. Douglas Shumway H. David Burton Neuenschwander Presiding Bishop Presiding Steven E. Snow Spencer J. Condie Lynn A. Mickelsen Walter F. González Walter F. First Counselor THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC Richard C. Edgley F. Burton HowardF. Jay E. Jensen John B. Dickson Christoffel Golden Jr. John M. Madsen Richard J. Maynes . Child L. Whitney Clayton Gary J. Coleman . Rasband Lynn G. Robbins Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. (in alphabetical order) W. Craig Zwick THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY Bruce C. Hafen Donald L. Hallstrom Melvin Hammond F. Harold G. Hillam Lance B. Wickman Gene R. Cook Quentin L. Cook Claudio R. M. Costa Robert K. Dellenbach Glenn L. Pace Bruce D. Porter Carl B. Pratt Ronald A John H. Groberg Marlin K. Jensen Kenneth Johnson W. Rolfe Kerr Kikuchi Yoshihiko Carlos H. Amado Neil L. Andersen Monte J. Brough Sheldon F Francisco J. Viñas Members attend conference broadcasts in South Africa (top and middle left), Poland (middle right), and Hawaii (bottom). The Polish members are recent converts experiencing conference for the first time.

66 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 5 October 2003

The builder lifted his old gray head: “Good friend, in the path I have The Bridge Builder come,” he said, “There followeth after me today PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON A youth whose feet must pass this First Counselor in the First Presidency way. This chasm that has been naught to me Jesus Christ . . . has built the bridges over which To that fair-haired youth may a we must cross if we are to reach our heavenly home. pitfall be. He, too, must cross in the twilight dim; Good friend, I am building the this task with ease: beautiful Golden bridge for him.”1 Gate Bridge of San Francisco fame; sturdy Sydney, Australia, Harbour The message of the poem has Bridge; and others in many lands. prompted my thinking and com- In reality, we are all travelers—even forted my soul, for our Lord and explorers of mortality. We do not have Savior, Jesus Christ, was the supreme the benefit of previous personal expe- architect and builder of bridges for rience. We must pass over steep you, for me, for all mankind. He has precipices and turbulent waters in our built the bridges over which we must own journey here on earth. cross if we are to reach our heavenly Perhaps such a somber thought home. inspired the poet Will Allen The Savior’s mission was foretold. Dromgoole’s classic poem entitled Matthew recorded, “And she shall “The Bridge Builder.” bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his An old man, going a lone highway, people from their sins.”2 Came at the evening, cold and gray, There followed the miracle of His any years ago I read a book To a chasm, vast and deep and wide, birth and the gathering of the shep- entitled The Way to the Through which was flowing a sullen herds who came with haste to that MWestern Sea, by David S. tide. stable, to that mother, to that child. Lavender. It provides a fascinating The old man crossed in the twilight Even the Wise Men, journeying from account of the epic journey of dim; the East, followed that star and Meriwether Lewis and William Clark The sullen stream had no fears for bestowed their precious gifts upon as they led their famed expedition him; the young child. across the North American continent But he turned when safe on the The scripture records that Jesus to discover an overland route to the other side “grew, and waxed strong in spirit, Pacific Ocean. And built a bridge to span the tide. filled with wisdom: and the grace of Their trek was a nightmare of back- God was upon him”3 and that He breaking toil, deep gorges which had “Old man,” said a fellow pilgrim “went about doing good.”4 to be crossed, and extensive travel by near, What personal bridges did He foot, carrying with them their supply- “You are wasting strength with build and cross here in mortality, laden boats to find the next stream on building here; showing us the way to follow? He which to make their way. Your journey will end with the knew mortality would be filled with As I read of their experiences, I ending day; dangers and difficulties. He declared: frequently mused, “If only there were You never again must pass this way; “Come unto me, all ye that labour and modern bridges to span the gorges You have crossed the chasm, deep are heavy laden, and I will give you of the raging waters.” There came to and wide— rest. Take my yoke upon you, and my mind thoughts of magnificent Why build you the bridge at the learn of me; for I am meek and lowly bridges of our time which accomplish eventide?” in heart: and ye shall find rest unto

NOVEMBER 2003 67 President Hinckley (center) and President Monson (right) shake hands with members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: (from left) Elder Henry B. Eyring, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, Elder Robert D. Hales, and Elder Richard G. Scott.

your souls. For my yoke is easy, and to man: but God is faithful, who will the lame to walk, the blind to see, the my burden is light.”5 not suffer you to be tempted above deaf to hear. He even raised the dead Jesus provided the Bridge of that ye are able; but will with the to life. Obedience. He was an unfailing temptation also make a way to escape, In the 25th chapter of the book of example of personal obedience as He that ye may be able to bear it.”9 Matthew, the Savior tells us this con- kept the commandments of His Lest we equivocate, I mention a cerning the faithful who will be on His Father. comment from ABC Nightline’s Ted right hand at His triumphal return: When He was led of the Spirit into Koppel: “What Moses brought down “Then shall the King say unto them the wilderness to be tempted of from Mt. Sinai were not the Ten ..., Come, ye blessed of my Father, Satan, He was weak from fasting. Suggestions [but the Ten] inherit the kingdom prepared for you Satan was at his seductive best in the Commandments!”10 from the foundation of the world: offerings he proffered. His first was to A bit of subtle humor is found in “For I was an hungred, and ye gave satisfy the Savior’s physical needs, an account of a conversation between me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me including His hunger. To this the Mark Twain and a friend. Said the drink: I was a stranger, and ye took Savior replied, “It is written, Man shall wealthy friend to Twain, “Before I die, me in: not live by bread alone, but by every I mean to make a pilgrimage to the “Naked, and ye clothed me: I was word that proceedeth out of the Holy Land. I will climb to the top of sick, and ye visited me: I was in mouth of God.”6 Mount Sinai and read the Ten prison, and ye came unto me. Next Satan offered power. Commandments aloud.” “Then shall the righteous answer Responded the Savior, “It is written Replied Twain, “Why don’t you stay him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord home and keep them!” an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, thy God.”7 The second bridge provided by the and gave thee drink? Finally the Savior was offered Master for us to cross is the Bridge “When saw we thee a stranger, and wealth and earthly glory. His of Service. We look to the Savior as took thee in? or naked, and clothed response: “Get thee hence, Satan: for our example of service. Although He thee? it is written, Thou shalt worship the came to earth as the Son of God, He “Or when saw we thee sick, or in Lord thy God, and him only shalt humbly served those around Him. He prison, and came unto thee? thou serve.”8 came forth from heaven to live on “And the King shall answer and say The Apostle Paul was inspired of earth as mortal man and to establish unto them, Verily I say unto you, the Lord to declare for our time, as the kingdom of God. His glorious Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one well as for his: “There hath no tempta- gospel reshaped the thinking of the of the least of these my brethren, ye tion taken you but such as is common world. He blessed the sick; He caused have done it unto me.”11

68 Elder Richard L. Evans once counseled, “We can’t do everything for everyone everywhere, but we can do something for someone somewhere.”12 May I share with you an account of an opportunity of service which came to me unexpectedly and in an unusual manner. I received a telephone call from a granddaughter of an old friend. She asked, “Do you remember Francis Brems, who was your Sunday School teacher?” I told her that I did. She continued, “He is now 105 years of age. He lives in a small care center but meets with the entire family each Sunday, where he delivers a Sunday School lesson. Last Sunday, Grandpa announced to us, ‘My dears, I am How thankful I am that a response to doing yourself what you have tried to going to die this week. Will you please render service was not delayed. teach him to do.” call Tommy Monson and tell him this. The bridge of service invites us to No relating of a prayer touches me He’ll know what to do.’ ” cross over it frequently. so deeply as the prayer offered by I visited Brother Brems the very Finally, the Lord provided us the Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. I next evening. I could not speak to Bridge of Prayer. He directed, “Pray believe Luke describes it best: him, for he was deaf. I could not write always, and I will pour out my Spirit “He . . . went . . . to the mount of a message for him to read, for he was upon you, and great shall be your Olives; and his disciples also fol- blind. What was I to do? I was told blessing.”13 lowed him. that his family communicated with I share with you an account “And when he was at the place, he him by taking the finger of his right described in a mother’s letter to me said unto them, Pray that ye enter not hand and then tracing on the palm of relating to prayer. She wrote: into temptation. his left hand the name of the person “Sometimes I wonder if I make a “And he was withdrawn from them visiting and then any message. I fol- difference in my children’s lives. about a stone’s cast, and kneeled lowed the procedure and took his fin- Especially as a single mother working down, and prayed, ger and spelled on the palm of his two jobs to make ends meet, I some- “Saying, Father, if thou be willing, hand T-O-M-M-Y M-O-N-S-O-N. times come home to confusion, but I remove this cup from me: neverthe- Brother Brems became excited and, never give up hope. less not my will, but thine, be done. taking my hands, placed them on his “My children and I were watching a “And there appeared an angel unto head. I knew his desire was to receive television broadcast of general confer- him from heaven, strengthening him. a priesthood blessing. The driver who ence, and you were speaking about “And being in an agony he prayed had taken me to the care center prayer. My son made the statement, more earnestly: and his sweat was as joined me as we placed our hands on ‘Mother, you’ve already taught us it were great drops of blood falling the head of Brother Brems and pro- that.’ I said, ‘What do you mean?’ And down to the ground.”14 vided the desired blessing. Afterward, he replied, ‘Well, you’ve taught us to In due time came the trek to the tears streamed from his sightless eyes. pray and showed us how, but the cross. What suffering He endured as He grasped our hands, and we read other night I came to your room to He made His burdensome way, carry- the movement of his lips. The mes- ask something and found you on your ing His own cross. Heard were the sage: “Thank you so much.” knees praying to Heavenly Father. If words He uttered upon the cross: Within that very week, just as He’s important to you, He’ll be “Father, forgive them; for they know Brother Brems had predicted, he important to me.’ ” not what they do.”15 passed away. I received the telephone The letter concluded, “I guess you At length Jesus declared, “It is fin- call and then met with the family as never know what kind of influence ished: and he bowed his head, and funeral arrangements were made. you’ll be until a child observes you gave up the ghost.”16

NOVEMBER 2003 69 These events, coupled with His glorious Resurrection, completed the final bridge of our trilogy: The The Grandeur Bridge of Obedience, the Bridge of Service, the Bridge of Prayer. Jesus, the Bridge Builder, spanned that vast chasm we call death. “For as of God in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”17 He did for us ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND what we could not do for ourselves; Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles hence, mankind can cross the bridges He built—into life eternal. In word and in deed Jesus was trying to reveal I close by paraphrasing the poem and make personal to us the true nature of His Father, “The Bridge Builder”: our Father in Heaven. “You have crossed the chasm, deep and wide— Why build you the bridge at the eventide?” in deed Jesus was trying to reveal and make personal to us the true nature “There followeth after me today of His Father, our Father in Heaven. A vast throng whose feet must pass He did this at least in part because this way. then and now all of us need to know This chasm that has been naught God more fully in order to love Him to me more deeply and obey Him more To that great throng may a pitfall be. completely. As both Old and New They too must cross in the twilight Testaments declare, “The first of all the dim; commandments is . . . thou shalt love Good friend, I am building the the Lord thy God with all thy heart, bridge for them.” and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is That we may have the wisdom and the first [and great] commandment.”1 determination to cross the bridges Little wonder then that the the Savior built for each of us is my Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “It is sincere prayer, in the name of Jesus the first principle of the gospel to Christ, amen. ■ f the many magnificent pur- know for a certainty the character of poses served in the life and God.” “I want you all to know Him,” NOTES ministry of the Lord Jesus he said, “and to be familiar with O 2 1. In James Dalton Morrison, ed., Masterpieces Christ, one great aspect of that mis- Him.” We must have “a correct idea of Religious Verse (1948), 342. 2. Matthew 1:21. sion often goes uncelebrated. His of his . . . perfections, and attributes,” 3. Luke 2:40. followers did not understand it fully an admiration for “the excellency 4. Acts 10:38. at the time, and many in modern of [His] character.”3 Thus the first 5. Matthew 11:28–30. 6. Matthew 4:4. Christianity do not grasp it now, but phrase we utter in the declaration of 7. Matthew 4:7. the Savior Himself spoke of it repeat- our faith is, “We believe in God, the 8. Matthew 4:10. edly and emphatically. It is the grand Eternal Father.”4 So, emphatically, did 9. 1 Corinthians 10:13. 10. Duke University commencement speech, truth that in all that Jesus came to say Jesus. Even as He acknowledged His 10 May 1987. and do, including and especially in own singular role in the divine plan, 11. Matthew 25:34–40. 12. Richard Evans’ Quote Book (1971), 51. His atoning suffering and sacrifice, He the Savior nevertheless insisted on 13. D&C 19:38. was showing us who and what God this prayerful preamble: “And this is 14. Luke 22:39–44. our Eternal Father is like, how com- life eternal, that they might know 15. Luke 23:34. 5 16. John 19:30. pletely devoted He is to His children thee the only true God.” 17. 1 Corinthians 15:22. in every age and nation. In word and After generations of prophets had

70 tried to teach the family of man the have seen with my Father.” “I do In reflecting on these misconcep- will and the way of the Father, usually nothing of myself; but as my Father tions we realize that one of the with little success, God in His ultimate hath taught me.” “I came down from remarkable contributions of the Book effort to have us know Him, sent to heaven, not to do mine own will, but of Mormon is its seamless, perfectly earth His Only Begotten and perfect the will of him that sent me.”7 consistent view of divinity throughout Son, created in His very likeness and I make my own heartfelt declara- that majestic book. Here there is no image, to live and serve among mor- tion of God our Eternal Father this Malachi-to-Matthew gap, no pause tals in the everyday rigors of life. morning because some in the con- while we shift theological gears, no To come to earth with such a temporary world suffer from a dis- misreading the God who is urgently, responsibility, to stand in place of tressing misconception of Him. lovingly, faithfully at work on every Elohim—speaking as He would Among these there is a tendency to page of that record from its Old speak, judging and serving, loving and feel distant from the Father, even Testament beginning to its New warning, forbearing and forgiving as estranged from Him, if they believe in Testament end. Yes, in an effort to He would do—this is a duty of such Him at all. And if they do believe, give the world back its Bible and a staggering proportions that you and I many moderns say they might feel correct view of Deity with it, what we cannot comprehend such a thing. But comfortable in the arms of Jesus, but have in the Book of Mormon is a uni- in the loyalty and determination that they are uneasy contemplating the form view of God in all His glory and would be characteristic of a divine stern encounter of God.8 Through a goodness, all His richness and com- child, Jesus could comprehend it and misreading (and surely, in some cases, plexity—including and especially as He did it. Then, when the praise and a mistranslation) of the Bible, these again demonstrated through a per- honor began to come, He humbly see God the Father and Jesus Christ sonal appearance of His Only directed all adulation to the Father. His Son as operating very differently, Begotten Son, Jesus Christ. “The Father . . . doeth the works,” this in spite of the fact that in both How grateful we are for all the He said in earnest. “The Son can do the Old Testament and the New, the scriptures, especially the scriptures of nothing of himself, but what he seeth Son of God is one and the same, act- the Restoration, that teach us the the Father do: for what things soever ing as He always does under the majesty of each member of the [the Father] doeth, these also doeth direction of the Father, who is Godhead. How we would thrill, for the Son likewise.”6 On another occa- Himself the same “yesterday, today, example, if all the world would sion He said: “I speak that which I and forever.”9 receive and embrace the view of the

NOVEMBER 2003 71 nowhere at all. Certainly that does not describe the Being we behold through the eyes of these prophets. Nor does it match the living, breathing, embodied Jesus of Nazareth who was and is in “the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his [Father].”13 In that sense Jesus did not come to improve God’s view of man nearly so much as He came to improve man’s view of God and to plead with them to love their Heavenly Father as He has always and will always love them. The plan of God, the power of God, the holiness of God, yes, even the anger and the judgment of God they had occasion to understand. But the love of God, the profound depth of His devotion to His children, they still did not fully know—until Christ came. So feeding the hungry, healing the sick, rebuking hypocrisy, pleading for faith—this was Christ showing us the way of the Father, He who is “merciful Father so movingly described in the more to teach the true nature of God and gracious, slow to anger, long- Pearl of Great Price. than any theological treatise could suffering and full of goodness.”14 In There, in the midst of a grand vision ever convey. It also helps us under- His life and especially in His death, of humankind which heaven opened stand much more emphatically that Christ was declaring, “This is God’s to his view, Enoch, observing both the vivid moment in the Book of Mormon compassion I am showing you, as well blessings and challenges of mortality, allegory of the olive tree, when after as that of my own.” In the perfect Son’s turns his gaze toward the Father and is digging and dunging, watering and manifestation of the perfect Father’s stunned to see Him weeping. He says weeding, trimming, pruning, trans- care, in Their mutual suffering and in wonder and amazement to this planting, and grafting, the great Lord shared sorrow for the sins and heart- most powerful Being in the universe: of the vineyard throws down his aches of the rest of us, we see ultimate “How is it that thou canst weep? . . . spade and his pruning shears and meaning in the declaration: “For God Thou art just [and] merciful and kind weeps, crying out to any who would so loved the world, that he gave his forever; . . . Peace . . . is the habitation listen, “What could I have done more only begotten Son, that whosoever of thy throne; and mercy shall go for my vineyard?”11 believeth in him should not perish, but before thy face and have no end; how What an indelible image of God’s have everlasting life. For God sent not is it thou canst weep?” engagement in our lives! What his Son into the world to condemn Looking out on the events of almost anguish in a parent when His children the world; but that the world through any day, God replies: “Behold these do not choose Him nor “the gospel of him might be saved.”15 thy brethren; they are the workman- God” He sent!12 How easy to love I bear personal witness this day of a ship of mine own hands. . . . I gave someone who so singularly loves us! personal, living God, who knows our unto them . . . [a] commandment, that Of course the centuries-long drift names, hears and answers prayers, they should love one another, and that away from belief in such a perfect and and cherishes us eternally as children they should choose me, their Father; caring Father hasn’t been helped any of His spirit. I testify that amidst the but behold, they are without affection, by the man-made creeds of erring gen- wondrously complex tasks inherent in and they hate their own blood. . . . erations which describe God variously the universe, He seeks our individual Wherefore should not the heavens as unknown and unknowable—form- happiness and safety above all other weep, seeing these shall suffer?”10 less, passionless, elusive, ethereal, godly concerns. We are created in His That single, riveting scene does simultaneously everywhere and very image and likeness,16 and Jesus of

72 Nazareth, His Only Begotten Son in the flesh, came to earth as the perfect mortal manifestation of His grandeur. The Message In addition to the witness of the ancients we also have the modern miracle of Palmyra, the appearance of God the Father and His Beloved Son, of the Restoration the Savior of the world, to the boy prophet Joseph Smith. I testify of that ELDER CHARLES DIDIER appearance, and in the words of that Of the Presidency of the Seventy prophet I, too, declare: “Our heavenly Father is more liberal in His views, and The message of the Restoration is [an] invitation to know boundless in His mercies and bless- why the gospel of Jesus Christ and His true Church have been ings, than we are ready to believe or receive. . . . God does not look on sin restored by a prophet in modern times. with [the least degree of] allowance, but . . . the nearer we get to our heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to look with compassion on perishing and especially teenagers. A favorite souls; we feel that we want to take why of one of my grandchildren: them upon our shoulders, and cast “Why do I need to eat vegetables?” their sins behind our backs.”17 Then, as children grow, the whys start I bear witness of a God who has the exploration of feelings: “Why did such shoulders. And in the spirit of Grandmother die?” Then it is the the holy apostleship, I say as did one search for knowledge or for confirma- who held this office anciently: “Herein tion of responsibilities: “Why do I [then] is love, not that we loved God, need to go to church or serve a mis- but that he loved us, and sent his Son sion?” “Why are we commanded to to be the propitiation for our sins. share the gospel with others?” Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought This last question is challenging! also to love one another”18 —and to Missionary work is also the responsi- love Him forever, I pray. In the sacred bility of every member—to sound the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ warning voice to their neighbors, in

NOTES mildness and in meekness (see D&C 1. Mark 12:29–30; see also Matthew 22:37–38; 38:41). Why? So that others may Deuteronomy 6:5. ords are part of a vocabulary receive the saving ordinances in the 2. History of the Church, 6:305. 3. Lectures on Faith (1985), 38, 42. that we use to share feelings, Church of Jesus Christ by inviting 4. Articles of Faith 1:1. Wknowledge, or information them to come unto Christ (see 5. John 17:3. between people. Among these words, Moroni 10:32). The message of the 6. John 14:10; 5:19. 7. John 8:38, 28; 6:38. one is used to find the cause or the Restoration is this invitation to know 8. See William Barclay, The Mind of Jesus (1961), reason of a thing. When expressed, it why the gospel of Jesus Christ and His especially the chapter “Looking at the Cross” is to satisfy our curiosity, to discover true Church have been restored by a for a discussion of this modern tendency. 9. For example, 1 Nephi 10:18; 2 Nephi the unknown, or to receive answers prophet in modern times. 27:23; Moroni 10:19; D&C 20:12. to vital questions related to our mor- How can you extend such an invi- 10. Moses 7:29–33, 37. 11. Jacob 5:41; see also vv. 47, 49. tal life. If not used or ignored, the tation to someone? 12. Romans 1:1. thinking process ceases and igno- First, by declaring that God our 13. Hebrews 1:3; see also 2 Corinthians 4:4; rance prevails. So what is this essen- Father lives, loves us, and that He Colossians 1:15. 14. Lectures on Faith, 42. tial word? Did you guess it? It is is a God of revelation. How is that 15. John 3:16–17. comprised of three letters; it is the known? By revelation and the witness 16. See Genesis 1:26–27; Moses 2:26–27. word why. of prophets. 17. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 257, 240–41. Why is among the first and favorite The time line of religious history 18. 1 John 4:10–11. words pronounced early by children starts with the Bible. It is a record of

NOVEMBER 2003 73 and Moses, at various times—called dispensations—to restore what had been lost because of renewed apostasy. These prophets were always called by God. They were given divine authority; they had the keys of the priesthood; they had a divine commis- sion to speak in the name of the Lord and teach and prophesy of the coming and the Atonement of Jesus Christ, the Savior and Redeemer of the world (see Amos 3:7). The New Testament confirms the teachings, testimonies, and prophecies of the prophets of the Old Testament. It is an account of the birth, life, and ministry of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God; His Atonement; and His Resurrection. It tells about the establishment of His Church, His divine authority, His God’s early revelation to His witness that Jesus was the Christ, the gospel, and His commandment to His prophets, dealing with mankind. It Savior and Redeemer of the world. disciples to share, to “go . . . into all starts with an account of Adam and There was a literal restoration of an the world, and preach [His] gospel to Eve, our first parents; their creation; understanding of the mortal status of every creature” (Mark 16:15). their fall, with its consequences— the fallen Adam and Eve by giving The message of the New Testament mortality and separation from God; them knowledge about their relation- was clear: there was one fold, one and their first steps in the mortal ship with the Father, the Son, and the faith, one gospel, one priesthood, one world. Probably then one of their first Holy Ghost; knowledge about the church in order to be “in one, the chil- questions was “Why are we here?” To Atonement and the Resurrection; and dren of Christ” (4 Nephi 1:17). find out, their only solution was to further knowledge about the first But again persecution, denial of call upon the name of the Lord, their principles and ordinances of the divine identity, and rejection of only source of true knowledge (see gospel of salvation. Christ’s gospel and His authorized Genesis 4:26). By direct revelation, Because of what Adam heard and priesthood servants characterized the they heard the voice of the Lord com- what he saw, he qualified to be called post-Resurrection era. And religious manding them that they should wor- the first prophet on earth, a personal history shows us evidence of how rap- ship the Lord their God and should witness of revelation given to man. His idly the priesthood authority was make an offering unto Him (see major responsibility now was to pre- superseded by the secular authority; Genesis 4:4; Moses 5:4–5). Further serve the truth of the gospel as well as how the divine doctrine was traded revelation to Adam and Eve taught to teach it as it was given to him. Satan, for shifting, distorted human philoso- them that the offering was in simili- on the other hand, representing the phies; how the ordinances of salva- tude of the sacrifice of the Only opposition, was going to do and teach tion were altered or purchased for Begotten of the Father, that Jesus anything to deny, to reject, or to ignore money; how revelation was replaced Christ was the only name whereby the gospel received by revelation, by a veil of obscurity leading into the salvation would come unto them. thus inducing the people who had ages of spiritual darkness. Then the gift of the Holy Ghost accepted it into apostasy, a state of However, there came a time during was promised to them whereby confusion, division, abandonment, or this great Apostasy, which had been whatsoever they would ask, it would renunciation of their previous faith! prophesied before, when the reli- be given to them (see Moses 5:6–7; The rest of the story of the Old gious quest surfaced again—the “Why 6:52). Testament became then a religious his- is it so?” Men of great faith emerged Later Adam obtained by the power tory of continuous revelation through to try to reform false doctrines and of the Holy Ghost a sure and infallible various prophets like Noah, Abraham, false spiritual authority. Their honest

74 The Tabernacle Choir sings for a session of general conference. and sincere efforts only resulted in answer, this time a vision of the the prophet of the Restoration in the creation of more churches carry- Father and the Son. Once again a modern times. ing their names and their protest and divine testimony of the Father was As the Bible is the tangible evi- adding more confusion and more given: “This is My Beloved Son. Hear dence of divine revelation to the divisions. In reality, two major ele- Him!” (Joseph Smith—History 1:17). prophets of ancient times, in the same ments were missing in the reform: Once again direct revelation way the Book of Mormon: Another revelation and authority, the Lord’s answered Joseph Smith’s question: Testament of Jesus Christ is also the only way to communicate divine truth “Which of all the [churches] was right modern convincing evidence that to mankind. . . . and which I should join. I was Joseph Smith was a prophet receiving As we continue to move rapidly answered that I must join none of revelation and authority as they did. A along this time line of religious his- them, for they were all wrong” testimony of the veracity of the Book tory, we find a date and a name. The (Joseph Smith—History 1:18–19). of Mormon helps people to find an date is 1820; the name is Joseph Once again apostasy was declared answer to why the gospel and the Smith. Pondering about the total reli- from the source of truth—by Jesus Church of Jesus Christ have been gious confusion and church division Christ Himself. And once again it had restored by a prophet and why we of his time, this young man asked to be followed by a restoration, and have a living prophet today, namely himself, “If any one of [these indeed it was. Gordon B. Hinckley. It also answers churches] be right, which is it, and In the following years, by revela- the ultimate why: all the ordinances of how shall I know it?” (Joseph Smith— tion, Joseph Smith received full divine the gospel provide the greatest bless- History 1:10). Why such confusion? doctrinal knowledge and the authority ing to prepare our salvation and to ful- The prophetic model was to ask of and the keys of the priesthood. Finally fill our mortal purpose to create God. Religious history suddenly in 1830, the Church of Jesus Christ, eternal families. This message of the repeated itself according to God’s sce- with all the doctrines of salvation and Restoration is true because it is divine. nario of how to answer mankind’s the ordinances thereof, was restored. Of this I testify, in the name of whys. Once again a vision came as an Joseph Smith qualified to be called Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2003 75 lived for a number of years in Brazil. Recently she had a Primary assign- He Knows Us; ment in Japan. As she came into the chapel on Sunday, she noticed among the Japanese Saints a Brazilian family. “They just looked Brazilian,” she said. He Loves Us She only had a minute to greet them and found the mother and children SYDNEY S. REYNOLDS very enthusiastic but noticed that the First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency father was rather quiet. “I’ll have a chance to talk with them after the The Lord . . . knows who we are and where we are, meeting,” she thought as she was and He knows who needs our help. quickly ushered to the stand. She delivered her message in English, which was translated into Japanese, and then she felt impressed to bear her testimony in Portuguese as well. The Lord not only knows who we She hesitated as there were no trans- are, He knows where we are, and He lators for Portuguese, and 98 percent leads us to do good. One day a of the people would not understand mother I know felt impressed to call what she said. her daughter. (This kind of thing hap- After the meeting the Brazilian pens to mothers all the time.) It was father came up to her and said, the middle of the day, and Mom was “Sister, the customs are so different at work, which made the call out of here, and I have been lonely. It is diffi- the ordinary. To her surprise, her son- cult to come to church and not in-law answered the phone—he’s not understand anything. Sometimes I usually home on a workday either. As wonder if I would be better off just he handed his wife the phone, he reading my scriptures at home. I told said, “It’s your mother with her usual my wife, ‘I’ll give it one more chance,’ inspiration.” and I came today for what I thought They had just been to the doctor. would be the last time. When you She came on the phone, close to bore your testimony in Portuguese, tears, and said, “The ultrasound shows the Spirit touched my heart, and I oseph Smith at age 14 had to be the cord is double-wrapped around knew that this was where I belonged. one of the least conspicuous the baby’s neck. The doctor says we God knows I am here, and He will Jhuman beings on the earth, and have no choice but to do a C-section help me.” And he joined the others in yet the God of heaven knew him and and soon.” Then came the real cause putting away the chairs. called him by name in the Sacred for the distress: “And he says I can’t lift Was it a coincidence that the only Grove. I believe the Lord knows my anything heavier than the new baby Portuguese-speaking member of the name and your name as well. for four weeks!” She needed reassur- Primary presidency was sent to Japan In Primary we teach the children ance before going into the surgery instead of to Portugal? Or was it that each is a child of God and that that the Lord knew her need and because the Lord knew someone their Heavenly Father knows them loved her—and that there would be there needed what only she could and loves them. Primary and priest- help tending the three little ones at give—and she had the courage to fol- hood leaders model what the Savior home, who were scarcely more than low a prompting of the Spirit? One of would do when they call a child by his babies themselves. When mothers— the great blessings of having a calling or her name. Jesus said, “I am the and fathers—pray for the Lord to bless in the Church is that the Lord, good shepherd, and know my sheep, and strengthen their families, He through His Spirit, will inspire us to and am known of mine.”1 The scrip- often shows them the way. help those we are called to serve. tures testify, “He calleth his own sheep Sister Gayle Clegg of the Primary Each of us who pays a full tithe can by name, and leadeth them out.”2 general presidency and her husband testify that the blessings of the Lord

76 come to us personally and meet our individual needs. The Lord has promised that if we pay our tithing, He will open the windows of heaven and pour us out a blessing so great that we will scarcely have room enough to receive it.3 Many years ago John Orth worked in a foundry in Australia, and in a terrible accident, hot molten lead splashed onto his face and body. He was administered to, and some of the vision was restored to his right eye, but he was completely blind in his left. Because he couldn’t see well, he lost his job. He tried to get employment with his wife’s family, but their business failed due to the depression. He was forced to go door-to-door seeking odd jobs and handouts to pay for food and rent. One year he did not pay any tithing and went to talk to the branch president. The branch president understood the situation but asked John to make it a matter of prayer and fasting so that he could find a way to pay his tithing. John and his wife, Alice, fasted and prayed and determined that the only thing of value they owned was her engagement ring—a beautiful ring bought in happier times. After much anguish they decided to take the ring to a pawnbroker and learned it was worth enough to pay their tithing and some other outstanding bills. That Sunday he went in to the branch president eye and 95 percent sight to his right of the difficulty—and then met a and paid his tithing. As he left the eye—and with the help of glasses he man who “happened by” and “hap- office, he happened to meet the mis- could see again.”4 With his vision pened” to be an eye surgeon who sion president, who noticed his dam- restored, John was never unemployed was able to make a great difference aged eyes. again; redeemed the ring, which is in their life. While some may be Brother Orth’s son, now serving as now a family heirloom; and paid a full tempted to believe these are just a bishop in Adelaide, later wrote: “We tithing for the rest of his life. The Lord coincidences, I have confidence that believe that [the mission president] knew John Orth, and He knew who even a sparrow cannot fall to the was an eye doctor, for he was com- could help him. ground but He knows it.5 monly called President Dr. Rees. He “President Dr. Rees” was my Our family didn’t know this story spoke to Dad and was able to exam- mother’s father, and he probably until two years ago, but we know this ine him and offer suggestions to help never knew of the miracle that was about our grandfather: he loved the his eyesight. Dad followed his advice, wrought that day. Generations were Lord and tried to serve Him all his . . . and in due course sight was blessed because a family decided they life. And we know this about the restored—15 percent sight to his left would pay their tithing regardless Lord: He knows who we are and

NOVEMBER 2003 77 where we are, and He knows who needs our help. I have seen you who know the Three Choices Lord and love Him honestly tell a young person who was struggling to ELDER JOSEPH B. WIRTHLIN find the way: “God loves you. He Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wants you to be successful. His greatest desire is to bless you.” I have heard you testify to a grieving friend: I would like to offer my own self-improvement program. “I know there is a life after this one. I It consists of three steps that have been useful to me. know your child still lives and that there is a way for you to see him and be with him again.” I have watched many of you tell a discouraged young take advantage of this once-in-a- mother: “Let me help you—what you lifetime offer. are doing is the most important work Perhaps the best way to teach in the world.” I have seen those you these principles is by way of parable. touch not only recognize your love There was once a man named John but feel the Lord’s love and power as who, although still relatively young, His Spirit bears witness to them that had experienced much suffering and what you have said is true. sorrow. Homeless and addicted to Who shall separate us from the alcohol and other drugs, John was ter- love of Christ? I am persuaded, with ribly sick and weary of life. The more Paul, that neither tribulation, nor life, he descended into illness and despair, nor death, nor any other circum- the more he knew that if he didn’t stance shall have the power to sepa- make changes—and quickly—there rate us from His love.6 was a very real possibility he would The Savior gave His life for each die miserable, useless, and alone. one of us. He knows our joys and our Perhaps because he had attended sorrows. He knows my name and Primary a few times when he was a your name. When we covenant with ecently, I have noticed the large boy, John ended up in a nearby meet- Him at baptism, we promise to keep number of self-improvement inghouse where he asked to see the His commandments, to always R programs that are available. bishop. remember Him, and to take His name There must be a tremendous demand “I have ruined my life,” John said upon us. Ultimately, His is the name for these products, because one can between tortured sobs that emerged by which we want to be called, for scarcely turn on the television or radio from the depths of his harrowed soul. “there shall be no other name given without seeing or hearing promotions He spoke of the mistakes he had nor any other way nor means for products that promise everything made and the path of self-destruction whereby salvation can come unto the from losing weight to growing a lush and misery he had trod. children of men, only in and through crop of thick hair. At times I wonder if As the bishop listened to John’s the name of Christ, the Lord the people who make these products sad story, he could tell that the man Omnipotent.”7 I bear my witness that know me personally. truly wanted to repent and change his He lives and loves us and calls us by Today I would like to offer my own life. But he could also sense that John name to come unto Him. In the name self-improvement program. It consists had little confidence that he could of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ of three steps that have been useful change. to me, and I am confident they will be The bishop thought for a moment NOTES helpful to you as well. What’s more, about what he could say. Finally, he 1. John 10:14. 2. John 10:3. this self-improvement program is free. looked up and said, “John, I have 3. See Malachi 3:10. There’s no need for you to pull out made three choices in my life that 4. Letter from J. Orth, 13 Dec. 2001. your credit card. No toll-free number have been of value to me. They may 5. See Matthew 10:29. 6. See Romans 8:35–39. will flash on the screen warning that be of assistance to you as well.” 7. Mosiah 3:17. you have five minutes remaining to “Please, tell me,” John pleaded. “I’ll

78 do anything. I just want to start over. I he had the power to repent and begin Maybe later, but not now.” want to go back.” anew from where he was. Those who stand at the threshold The bishop smiled and told him, How do we begin to repent? of life always waiting for the right time “The first thing you should understand By first acknowledging our errors to change are like the man who is that you can’t go back and begin and deciding to repent. By commit- stands at the bank of a river waiting where you once were. But all is not lost. ting today—this very day—to do bet- for the water to pass so he can cross You can begin where you are. Choose ter, to live noble and compassionate on dry land. to begin your repentance now.” lives, to strive each day to be more Today is the day of decision. To some degree, we all are like like the Savior. When John heard the bishop’s John. We have made mistakes. But no Our destiny and ultimate fate words, he promised he would do matter how badly we want to go back depend upon our daily decisions. what the bishop had said. Because of and begin again, we can’t. We can, The great Old Testament prophet his addictions, John knew he needed however, repent and begin where we Joshua knew this when he said, to repent and improve his health. So are today. “Choose you this day whom ye will he checked himself into a facility In the Book of Mormon, we read of serve; . . . but as for me and my where he underwent the prolonged Alma the Younger. He was the son of a house, we will serve the Lord.”1 process of recovery. He began eating great prophet, but he turned against Joshua understood how critical it is nutritious food. He began to walk and his father and sought to do evil. After a to choose without delay to be more do other exercises. visit from an angel that left him inca- righteous. We too should decide now. Weeks passed. John was able to pacitated and unable to speak, Alma Will our lives be filled with regret and free himself from his addictions. He repented and worked for the rest of despair? Or will we repent and strive could see that his health was improv- his life to repair the damage he had each day to make our days worth- ing and he was getting stronger. But done. As a result, he blessed and while and meaningful? still he was not satisfied. There were enriched the lives of thousands of oth- Tomorrow’s joy or tomorrow’s so many things about his life that ers. Alma did not accept that he was despair has its roots in decisions we needed improvement that he felt doomed because of past mistakes. He make today. Perhaps some people overwhelmed and discouraged. understood that he could not erase think to themselves: “I know I need So, once again, he scheduled a the past. But he also understood that to change some things in my life. meeting with his bishop.

NOVEMBER 2003 79 That is when he learned the sec- right things—the things our Heavenly ond choice: “John,” the bishop said to Father would want us to do.” him, “you’ll most likely have a rough “How do I know what the right time if you think you can make your- things are?” John asked. self perfect all at once. What you must The bishop smiled and pulled from learn is to choose your priorities. You his desk a set of scriptures. The have to put first things first.” leather cover was scuffed and wrin- In most cases, growth comes kled. The gilded edges on the paper slowly—one step at a time. We under- were nearly worn away. “Through the stand this when it comes to mastering scriptures and the words of latter-day a musical instrument, becoming an prophets,” the bishop replied. “These accomplished athlete, or flying a jet are the ‘right things.’ Some believe aircraft. Yet, we often can scarcely for- that the commandments of our give ourselves when we don’t make Heavenly Father are restrictive and the progress we expect in all areas of he could choose his priorities. He hard. To the contrary, they’re a hand- our own lives. could focus on the things that mat- book to happiness. Every aspect of Great sculptors and artists spend tered most, and with time his life the gospel of Jesus Christ—the princi- countless hours perfecting their tal- would begin to improve. ples, the doctrines, and the com- ents. They don’t pick up a chisel or a With help from the elders quorum mandments—is a part of our brush and palette, expecting immedi- president, John found a modest place Heavenly Father’s plan to help us ate perfection. They understand that to live. He knew that he needed to obtain peace and happiness.” they will make many errors as they find a way to support himself, and as The bishop turned to the Book of learn, but they start with the basics, his health and attitude improved, he Mormon and read the words of King the key fundamentals first. found part-time work. Benjamin: “Consider . . . the blessed So it is with us. Each night before John went to and happy state of those that keep We become masters of our lives in bed, he made a list of the most impor- the commandments of God. For the same way—by focusing on first tant things he needed to accomplish behold, they are blessed in all things, things first. We all have a pretty good the next day. both temporal and spiritual; and if idea of the most important decisions Eventually, John was earning a they hold out faithful to the end they we need to make—decisions that will steady income. He moved into a more are received into heaven, that thereby improve our lives and bring us greater comfortable place and bought a car. they may dwell with God in a state of happiness and peace. That is where Yet, although he was feeling much never-ending happiness.”2 we should start. That is where we better about his life, he still felt that As the bishop spoke, John thought should place our greatest effort. something was missing. about his own life. The things he had Each night before I go to bed, I Consequently, John returned a acquired hadn’t brought him happi- take out a small card and write a list of third time to meet with his bishop. ness. Perhaps what the bishop was the things I need to do the next day “The reason you still feel empty,” saying was true. Maybe happiness did in order of their priority. the bishop said, “is because you have come from living in harmony with When I arrive at the office in the not made the third choice.” the commandments of our Heavenly morning, I check my card and put all John asked what it was. Father. my efforts into the first item on the “It’s not enough to make choices “Remember the words of the list. When I accomplish that item, I and decisions, and to work on them Savior,” the bishop said, as though he move on to the second and so on. each day,” the bishop said. “Many knew what John was thinking. “ ‘For Some days, I finish every item on my have spent their lives in productive what shall it profit a man, if he shall list. On other days, some tasks are labor and have accomplished much. gain the whole world, and lose his not completed. I don’t become dis- But they still feel empty. At the end of own soul?’ ”3 couraged, however, because I’m their days they lament that their lives That very night, John made a com- focusing my energies on the things had little meaning.” mitment to open the word of God that matter most. That was exactly what John had and to learn for himself the com- John began to understand that he been feeling. mandments and doctrines of his couldn’t change everything that was The bishop continued, “It is not Heavenly Father. No longer did he wrong with his life in an instant, but enough to do things. We must do the resist the words of the Lord, but

80 rather he embraced and cherished them. As he did, the emptiness in his soul began to shrink, and in its place he gradually discovered joy and peace that surpassed his understanding. The things the bishop had told John had indeed transformed his life. Where once he was broken, sorrow- ful, and close to death, now he felt alive, vibrant, and filled with joy. Brothers and sisters, our loving Heavenly Father has given us the scriptures to teach us the way to peace and happiness. Today, we have great reason to rejoice, for His Son speaks to all of us! The Lord does not sit in His heavens, silent and sealed behind impene- trable walls. Under the direction of our Heavenly Father, the Lord gives direction to His anointed servants. At this very hour, our prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley, directs the holy work of the Lord here upon the earth. In addition, the Light of Christ leads all mortals to our Heavenly Father and to His truths. It teaches us to love the Lord and to love our fellowmen, for “the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil.”4 We have little excuse for not choos- cheerfully in the Church. Learn and can to relieve suffering and help oth- ing the way of the Lord. Do you sup- live by gospel principles. Begin now ers become self-reliant. As you do so, pose at the Day of Judgment our Savior to turn your steps toward the temple. the Lord will be well pleased with you. will care one little bit about the wealth Second, choose your priorities. Let Brothers and sisters, I know that we have accumulated or the praise we your family come first. Hold worth- our Heavenly Father and His Beloved have received? He wants us to come while family home evenings. Let the Son live. I testify to you that Joseph unto Him, to learn of Him, and to dis- time that you spend with your fami- Smith was raised up to organize the cover the pure love of Christ that lies be consistent with how important Lord’s Church in the dispensation of comes through embracing His word they are. Cherish and nurture family the fulness of times. As a special wit- and obeying His commandments. members and never allow busy sched- ness of Jesus Christ, I know that the That is the way to remove empti- ules and frustrations to drive a wedge Savior laid down His life for us. ness from our lives and to fill our between you and your loved ones. Through His Atonement, all mankind souls with joy beyond description. Strive each day to be more obedient can repent and be cleansed of sin. We May I review these three choices to the Lord’s commandments. can return to our Heavenly Father and for you to consider? No doubt you Third, choose the right. Study realize the value of our Savior’s infi- have had choices of your own that the scriptures and the words of nite sacrifice. This I testify in the name you have successfully followed our prophet today, even President of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen. ■ throughout your life. Gordon B. Hinckley. Apply these NOTES First, choose to begin the process sacred teachings to your lives. Reach 1. Joshua 24:15. 2. Mosiah 2:41. of repentance now. Do not delay. out to those in distress—the lonely, 3. Mark 8:36. Attend your meetings and serve the sick, and the needy. Do what you 4. Moroni 7:16.

NOVEMBER 2003 81 the Lord, whose work this really is.” And this, I assure you, is what we do An Ensign to the and must always do. As I reflected on these matters that recent difficult day, I opened my Bible to the first chapter of Joshua and read Nations, a Light these words: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not to the World afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee” PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY (Joshua 1:9). I said to myself: “There is never reason to despair. This is the work of If we are to [be] an ensign to the nations and a light God. Notwithstanding the efforts of to the world, we must take on more of the luster all who oppose it, it will go forward as of the life of Christ. the God of heaven has designed it should do.” I turned the pages of the Old Testament to the second chapter of Isaiah and read these words: you are and whatever your needs. “And it shall come to pass in the I wish to remind you that we are all last days, that the mountain of the in this together. It is not a matter of Lord’s house shall be established in the General Authorities on one hand the top of the mountains, and shall be and the membership of the Church exalted above the hills; and all nations on the other. We are all working as shall flow unto it. one in a great cause. We are all mem- “And many people shall go and say, bers of the Church of Jesus Christ. Come ye, and let us go up to the Within your sphere of responsibil- mountain of the Lord, to the house of ity you have as serious an obligation the God of Jacob; and he will teach us as do I within my sphere of responsi- of his ways, and we will walk in his bility. Each of us should be deter- paths: for out of Zion shall go forth mined to build the kingdom of God the law, and the word of the Lord on the earth and to further the work from Jerusalem” (Isaiah 2:2–3). of righteousness. Ever since the Salt Lake Temple I think I can honestly say that we was dedicated, we have interpreted have no selfish desires with reference that scripture from Isaiah, repeated y beloved brethren and sis- to this work other than that it succeed. again in Micah (see Micah 4:1–2), as ters, I wish to acknowledge We of the First Presidency are con- applying to this sacred house of the Mmy gratitude for your sustain- stantly dealing with a great variety of Lord. And of this place, since the day ing faith and prayers. The Lord has problems. They come before us of its dedication, an ever-increasing imposed upon the leadership of this every day. number from across the world have Church a great and serious trust, and At the close of one particularly dif- said in effect, “Come ye, and let us go you have supported us in that respon- ficult day, I looked up at a portrait of up to the mountain of the Lord, to sibility. We know that you pray for us, Brigham Young that hangs on my the house of the God of Jacob, that and we wish you to know that we wall. I asked, “Brother Brigham, what He might teach us of His ways, that pray for you. should we do?” I thought I saw him we might walk in His paths.” Not a day passes that I do not smile a little, and then he seemed to I believe and testify that it is the thank the Lord for faithful Latter-day say: “In my day, I had problems mission of this Church to stand as an Saints. No day passes that I do not enough of my own. Don’t ask me ensign to the nations and a light to pray that He will bless you wherever what to do. This is your watch. Ask the world. We have had placed upon

82 us a great, all-encompassing mandate spiritual wickedness in high places” young people, the glorious youth of from which we cannot shrink nor (Ephesians 6:10–12). this generation, I say, be true. Hold to turn aside. We accept that mandate We must stand firm. We must hold the faith. Stand firmly for what you and are determined to fulfill it, and back the world. If we do so, the know to be right. with the help of God we shall do it. Almighty will be our strength and our You face tremendous temptation. There are forces all around us that protector, our guide and our revelator. It comes at you in the halls of popu- would deter us from that effort. The We shall have the comfort of knowing lar entertainment, on the Internet, in world is constantly crowding in on us. that we are doing what He would have the movies, on television, in cheap From all sides we feel the pressure to us do. Others may not agree with us, literature, and in other ways—subtle, soften our stance, to give in here a lit- but I am confident that they will titillating, and difficult to resist. Peer tle and there a little. respect us. We will not be left alone. pressure may be almost overpower- We must never lose sight of our There are many not of our faith but ing. But, my dear young friends, you objective. We must ever keep before who feel as we do. They will support must not give in. You must be strong. us the goal which the Lord has set us. They will sustain us in our efforts. You must take the long look ahead for us. We cannot be arrogant. We cannot rather than succumbing to the pres- To quote Paul: be self-righteous. The very situation in ent seductive temptation. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in which the Lord has placed us requires Uncouth-looking entertainers draw the Lord, and in the power of his that we be humble as the beneficiar- big crowds of our youth. They grow might. ies of His direction. rich from high admission prices. Their “Put on the whole armour of God, While we cannot agree with songs, so many of them, are sugges- that ye may be able to stand against others on certain matters, we must tive in nature. the wiles of the devil. never be disagreeable. We must be Pornography is everywhere with its “For we wrestle not against flesh friendly, soft-spoken, neighborly, and seductive invitation. You must turn and blood, but against principalities, understanding. away from it. It can enslave you. It can against powers, against the rulers of Now I emphasize a theme already destroy you. Recognize it for what it the darkness of this world, against treated in this conference. To our is—tawdry and sleazy stuff created and

NOVEMBER 2003 83 and make your reward sweet and beautiful. And you will discover that your example will attract others who will take courage from your strength. As it is with the youth, so it is with you adults. If we are to hold up this Church as an ensign to the nations and a light to the world, we must take on more of the luster of the life of Christ individually and in our own personal circumstances. In standing for the right, we must not be fearful of the consequences. We must never distributed by those who grow rich at them to be the most “stone-cold be afraid. Said Paul to Timothy: the expense of those who see it. sober” student body in America. Most “For God hath not given us the The sanctity of sex is utterly of you, of course, cannot attend BYU, spirit of fear; but of power, and of destroyed in its salacious portrayal in but wherever you are you can live by love, and of a sound mind. the media. That which by its nature is the same standards required on the “Be not thou therefore ashamed of inherently beautiful is corrupted in its BYU campus. the testimony of our Lord” (2 Timothy popular presentation. I was pleased to I recently read in our New Era 1:7–8). note that our Church-owned televi- magazine an article on young Latter- This Church, I submit, is far more sion station here in Salt Lake City day Saints in Memphis, Tennessee. In than a social organization where we refused to carry a network program of some instances, they are the only gather together to enjoy one a salacious nature. It was also interest- Latter-day Saints on campus. One of another’s company. It is more than ing to note that the only other station them is quoted as saying, “I may be Sunday School and Relief Society and belonging to this network to cancel the only member in my school, but . . . priesthood meeting. It is more than the broadcast was one in South Bend, even when I’m physically alone, I’m sacrament meeting, more even than Indiana, the location of the University never spiritually alone” (in Arianne B. temple service. It is the kingdom of of Notre Dame. It is comforting to Cope, “Smiling in Memphis,” New God in the earth. It behooves us to know that there are others who feel Era, Oct. 2003, 23–24). act in a manner befitting membership as strongly as we feel and are willing Another is quoted: “I know a lot of in that kingdom. to do something about it. teens wonder if they really know if You men who hold the priesthood Life is better than that which is so the gospel is true. But . . . here you have such a tremendous responsibil- frequently portrayed. Nature is better have to know one way or the other ity. You must avoid the sultry siren than that. Love is better than that. because people are asking you about voice of the world. You must rise This kind of entertainment is only an it every day. Every time you answer a above it. You must stand in the stature evil caricature of the good and the question, you share your testimony” of the priesthood of God. You must beautiful. (New Era, Oct. 2003, 25). eschew evil in all of its forms and take You young men and women who These young people, scattered on the nature of goodness and are hearing me today, you university through that big city, have learned to decency, letting the light, the divine students on many campuses realize stand together, to bolster one another. light, shine through your actions. that one of the great problems on God bless you, my dear young There is no way that a home can these campuses is binge drinking. It friends. You are the best generation be a place of refuge and peace if the diminishes abilities. It destroys lives. we have ever had. You know the man who resides there is not an It wastes money and time and con- gospel better. You are more faithful in understanding and helpful husband structive effort. What a sorry sight it is your duties. You are stronger to face and father. The strength to be gained to see bright young people damage the temptations which come your from our homes will make us better themselves and ruin their opportuni- way. Live by your standards. Pray for able to face the world, more accept- ties with excessive drinking. the guidance and protection of the able to the society in which we move, It was a great tribute to the stu- Lord. He will never leave you alone. more valuable to those who employ dents of Brigham Young University He will comfort you. He will sustain us—better men. when the Princeton Review found you. He will bless and magnify you I know many such men. It is evident

84 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 5 October 2003 that they love their wives and their children. They are proud of them. And the marvelous thing is, they are We Believe tremendously successful in their chosen professions. They are magnified and honored and respected. And to you women. I spoke at All That God length to the women of the Relief Society a week ago. That talk repre- sented my heartfelt views concerning Has Revealed you. You too can take on the luster of Christ. You too can be strong and ELDER L. TOM PERRY encouraging and beautiful and helpful. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles I remind all of us that we are Latter-day Saints. We have made covenants with our Heavenly Father, God continues to reveal His will to mankind, as He has sacred and binding. Those covenants, in all periods of time when He has had authorized servants if we keep them, will make us better upon the earth. fathers and mothers, better sons and daughters. I believe that others will rally around us if we will do so. We can stand for truth and goodness, and we for the scriptures give abundant evi- will not stand alone. Moreover, we dence of this. shall have the unseen forces of Sometimes we define the commu- heaven to assist us. nication of God’s will as revelation. I take you back to the Old Sometimes we refer to such commu- Testament: nication as inspiration. Revelation, “And when the servant of the man however, is a much broader term. of God was risen early, and gone While inspiration can properly be forth, behold, an host compassed the considered as revelation, revelation city both with horses and chariots. can also include visions, dreams, the And his servant said unto him, Alas, spoken word, or other spiritual mani- my master! how shall we do? festations. Elder Talmage explained: “And he answered, Fear not: for “Revelation signifies the making they that be with us are more than known of divine truth by communica- they that be with them. tion from the heavens. . . . “And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, “The word inspiration is some- I pray thee, open his eyes, that he times invested with a [significance] may see. And the Lord opened the e believe all that God has almost identical with that of revela- eyes of the young man; and he saw: revealed, all that He does tion, though by origin and early usage and, behold, the mountain was full of Wnow reveal, and we believe it possessed a distinctive meaning. To horses and chariots of fire round that He will yet reveal many great and inspire is literally to animate with the about Elisha” (2 Kings 6:15–17). important things pertaining to the spirit; a man is inspired when under The Lord has said to us: Kingdom of God.”1 the influence of a power other than “Therefore, fear not, little flock; do We declare to the world that the his own. Divine inspiration may be good; let earth and hell combine heavens are not closed. God contin- regarded as a lower or less directly against you, for if ye are built upon ues to reveal His will to mankind, as intensive operation of spiritual influ- my rock, they cannot prevail. . . . He has in all periods of time when He ence upon man than is . . . revelation. “Look unto me in every thought; has had authorized servants upon the The difference therefore is rather one doubt not, fear not” (D&C 6:34, 36). earth. This fact should be familiar to of degree than of kind.”2 In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ all of our Father in Heaven’s children, There is order in the way the Lord

NOVEMBER 2003 85 reveals His will to mankind. We all relates to his particular calling and know that such a claim would not be have the right to petition the Lord duty in the Church.”4 from God. and receive inspiration through His The closer we keep our lives in There is great strength and power Spirit within the realm of our own harmony with the direction the Lord in the fact that millions throughout stewardship. Parents can receive reve- has given us to guide our lives, the the world share the same testimony lation for their own family, a bishop more we will be in tune with His of God, the Savior, and the calling of for his assigned congregation, and on Spirit. A person who petitions the the Prophet Joseph Smith. We have up to the First Presidency for the Lord for guidance must be worthy to never been encouraged to be blindly entire Church. However, we cannot receive it. His life must be in harmony obedient; it is an intelligent obedi- receive revelation for someone else’s and in keeping with the standards the ence that characterizes members of stewardship. The Prophet Joseph Lord has prescribed for His children. the Church. Smith declared: His life must be in good standing Brigham Young is reported to have “It is contrary to the economy of before God and His people. It must said that the greatest fear he had was God for any member of the Church, be in harmony with the teachings of that members of the Church would or any one, to receive instruction the scriptures, the prophets, and the take what he said as the mind and will for those in authority, higher than order of the Church. of God without first praying and themselves.”3 A person could say that he or she obtaining a witness of the same for “Revelations of the mind and will had received a revelation to be dis- themselves.5 of God to the Church, are to come honest in order to improve his or her In establishing His kingdom on through the [First] Presidency. This is financial situation. Or a person may earth, the Lord set forth fundamental the order of heaven, and the power say that he or she has been instructed principles and laws to govern His chil- and privilege of this Priesthood. It is that the Church should go a different dren here. Obedience to those laws also the privilege of any officer in this direction than it is being led by the and principles yields blessings that He Church to obtain revelations, so far as prophet. We would immediately has covenanted to bestow upon us.

86 Violations are subject to His judgments. anger waxed hot, and he cast the Reviewing man’s history reveals tables out of his hands, and brake examples of obedience yielding bless- them beneath the mount.”9 ings and disobedience yielding sor- Because of the disobedience of the row and destruction. The course we children of Israel, “Moses took the are to follow is revealed through His tabernacle [out of their midst], and holy prophets, who direct us to be pitched it without the camp.”10 obedient to the Lord’s instructions. Now their centerpiece, the taber- One example is the Lord’s direc- nacle, was away from them. They tions to the children of Israel as they could no longer be guided and pro- journeyed in the wilderness. In order tected by its presence. Now only the that they would have a centerpiece for faithful were allowed to come to the their worship and activity, the Lord tabernacle. One thing the Lord would instructed Moses to build a tabernacle. not tolerate was the worship of other The tabernacle was a forerunner of gods. Because of their many years of the temple, made portable so they captivity in Egypt, this was challenging could easily carry it with them. to the children of Israel. “For the Lord [said] unto Moses, . . . After a period of pleading for for- “But thou shalt appoint the Levites Sinai. Here Moses was instructed to giveness from the Lord, Moses was over the tabernacle of testimony, and climb the mountain and communi- instructed to “hew . . . two tables of over all the vessels thereof, and over cate with the Lord. Here he received stone like unto the first”11 and ascend all things that belong to it: they shall instructions on how the children of up the mount. Moses spent 40 days bear the tabernacle, and all the ves- Israel would be governed in the and 40 nights on top of Mount Sinai, sels thereof; and they shall minister wilderness. Moses was also given “two without bread or water, and the Lord unto it, and shall encamp round tables of testimony, tables of stone, instructed him: about the tabernacle. written with the finger of God.”7 “Write thou these words: for after “And when the tabernacle setteth Moses was away from the people the tenor of these words I have made forward, the Levites shall take it down: for an extended period of time. “And a covenant with thee and with Israel. and when the tabernacle is to be when the people saw that Moses “. . . And he wrote upon the tables pitched, the Levites shall set it up. . . . delayed to come down out of the the words of the covenant, the ten “And the children of Israel shall mount, the people gathered them- commandments.”12 pitch their tents, every man by his selves together unto Aaron, and said Thus, the Ten Commandments own camp, and every man by his own unto him, Up, make us gods, which were given to mankind to follow and standard, throughout their hosts. shall go before us; for as for this use throughout their lives. Obedience “But the Levites shall pitch round Moses, the man that brought us up finally brought the law of the Lord to about the tabernacle of testimony, out of the land of Egypt, we wot not the children of Israel. Disobedience that there be no wrath upon the con- what is become of him.”8 only delayed the progress of the chil- gregation of the children of Israel: Aaron succumbed to the will of the dren of Israel towards their promised and the Levites shall keep the charge people and told them to gather all land. They had to be worthy to of the tabernacle of testimony.”6 their gold and silver and precious receive the law of the Lord. This tabernacle became the cen- things and melt them into a form that Note that the Lord delivered His ter of their camp as they journeyed made a golden calf, an idol that they word to Moses, His prophet. The to the promised land. Here sacred could worship and carry with them as Lord knows what will bless His chil- services could be performed. The they journeyed. In the meantime, dren, and to that end He delivers laws day the tabernacle was complete, a Moses was receiving the two tablets of through His prophets to the people. cloud covered it. The cloud was testimony containing God’s com- If obeyed, these laws will lead us back removed when they were to go for- mandments to His people. With the to God. We do not determine for our- ward in their journey. When the tablets in hand, Moses descended selves what those laws are. They are cloud covered the tabernacle, they from the mountain. given from God to man. were not to travel. “And it came to pass, as soon as he The Savior fulfilled the law of The Lord directed them in their came nigh unto the camp, that he saw Moses,13 and similar divine instructions journey to camp at the foot of Mount the calf, and the dancing: and Moses’ were revealed in our day through the

NOVEMBER 2003 87 Nephi’s hands. Concerning the slaying of Laban, Nephi was taught: “It is better that one man should perish than that a nation should dwindle and perish in unbelief.”15 This revelation helped Nephi recall something the Lord previously promised him in the wilderness: “Inasmuch as thy seed shall keep my commandments, they shall prosper in the land of promise.”16 Then Nephi reasoned: “Yea, and I also thought that they could not keep the commandments of the Lord according to the law of Moses, save they should have the law. “And I also knew that the law was engraven upon the plates of brass.”17 Conference visitors wait to meet others around the fountain inside the Conference Repeatedly the scriptures declare Center on the plaza level. that the Lord gives His commandments to the children of men Prophet Joseph Smith, as contained in “But remember that on this, the through living prophets. No commit- the 59th section of the Doctrine and Lord’s day, thou shalt offer thine obla- tee, assembly, or any other authority Covenants. The Lord commanded: tions and thy sacraments unto the has the right to dictate to Him doc- “Wherefore, I give unto them a Most High, confessing thy sins unto trine that is contrary to His law. God’s commandment, saying thus: Thou thy brethren, and before the Lord. eternal blessings are contingent upon shalt love the Lord thy God with all “And on this day thou shalt do our obedience and adherence to the thy heart, with all thy might, mind, none other thing, only let thy food be word of the Lord that is revealed to and strength; and in the name of prepared with singleness of heart that us through His holy prophets. Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him. thy fasting may be perfect, or, in other God grant that we may always have “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as words, that thy joy may be full.”14 the will and the courage to be obedi- thyself. Thou shalt not steal; neither Note that the channel of communi- ent to Him who is our Eternal Father commit adultery, nor kill, nor do any- cation comes from the Lord to us. So and to His chosen Son, our Lord and thing like unto it. many times in our history, in our self- Savior, that we may enjoy Their bless- “Thou shalt thank the Lord thy justification, we have attempted to ings here and in the eternities to God in all things. reverse that channel and change come. In the name of our Lord and “Thou shalt offer a sacrifice unto God’s laws. We find no record of this Savior, even Jesus Christ, amen. ■ the Lord thy God in righteousness, ever working. NOTES even that of a broken heart and a con- We do find, however, that when- 1. Articles of Faith 1:9. 2. The Articles of Faith, 12th ed. (1924), 296. trite spirit. ever God’s children act contrary to 3. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, “And that thou mayest more fully His law, divine consistency and order sel. Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 21. keep thyself unspotted from the are interrupted with disobedience 4. Teachings, 111. 5. See Deseret News, 9 Dec. 1857, 317; world, thou shalt go to the house of and destruction. The Lord’s system 12 Feb. 1862, 257. prayer and offer up thy sacraments works. Adherence to His laws and 6. Numbers 1:48, 50–53. 7. Exodus 31:18. upon my holy day; commandments will always bring 8. Exodus 32:1. “For verily this is a day appointed about His promised blessings. 9. Exodus 32:19. unto you to rest from your labors, and Nephi was commanded by the Lord 10. Exodus 33:7. 11. Exodus 34:1. to pay thy devotions unto the Most to obtain the brass plates to carry with 12. Exodus 34:27–28. High; them as they journeyed into the 13. See 3 Nephi 15:5. “Nevertheless thy vows shall be wilderness. Laban resisted every effort 14. D&C 59:5–13. 15. 1 Nephi 4:13. offered up in righteousness on all they had made to obtain the record. 16. 1 Nephi 4:14. days and at all times; The Lord then delivered Laban into 17. 1 Nephi 4:15–16.

88 offered by the Prophet in Carthage burning in their hearts through all the An Enduring tests of life, as it did in his. To begin, we can offer them the testimony of eyewitnesses. The Lord gave others to stand with Joseph to Testimony of the verify what the Lord had done. They were with the Prophet when the heavens were opened. Mission of the Oliver Cowdery preached the first missionary sermon the first Sunday after the Church was organized. He went into the mission field to pro- Prophet Joseph claim what he knew by what he saw and heard and felt. With two others ELDER HENRY B. EYRING he signed a testimony which they Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles never denied. Their witness is printed in the front of the Book of Mormon: The Prophet Joseph is an example and a teacher of enduring “Be it known unto all nations, kin- dreds, tongues, and people, unto well in faith.... I thank and love him as the Lord’s prophet whom this work shall come: That we, of the Restoration. through the grace of God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, have seen the plates which contain this record, which is a record of the people of prayed that night. The Holy Ghost Nephi, and also of the Lamanites, was ready to tell them that the their brethren, and also of the people remarkable message was true. With a of Jared, who came from the tower of testimony of the Spirit they would which hath been spoken. And we also have known that they should ask for know that they have been translated baptism. And then they could have by the gift and power of God, for his received the priceless gift of the Holy voice hath declared it unto us; where- Ghost. With that gift, they could know fore we know of a surety that the the truth of all things. I wonder if any work is true. And we also testify that of them sensed that night how close we have seen the engravings which they were to starting down the only are upon the plates; and they have path which would lead them to the been shown unto us by the power of Savior in the world to come, to see God, and not of man. And we declare His face with pleasure and hear the with words of soberness, that an words, “Come unto me, ye blessed, angel of God came down from there is a place prepared for you in heaven, and he brought and laid the mansions of my Father.”1 before our eyes, that we beheld and n the evening before he was We all have people we love. Think saw the plates, and the engravings martyred in Carthage, the of them now. They may be our chil- thereon; and we know that it is by OProphet Joseph Smith bore dren or our grandchildren. Perhaps the grace of God the Father, and our testimony to his guards. He testified you think of your husband or your Lord Jesus Christ, that we beheld and of the divine authenticity of the Book wife. It may be someone you are bear record that these things are of Mormon. He bore witness of the teaching as a missionary. It may be a true. And it is marvelous in our eyes. administration of angels and that the friend. You want with all your heart to Nevertheless, the voice of the Lord kingdom of God was again estab- have them someday hear those words commanded us that we should bear lished upon the earth. from the Master. And for that blessing record of it; wherefore, to be obedi- I wonder if any of those guards to come, they will need that testimony ent unto the commandments of God,

NOVEMBER 2003 89 we bear testimony of these things. Brigham Young, John Taylor, Heber C. unto him, and offer your whole souls And we know that if we are faithful in Kimball, and many others stayed as an offering unto him, and continue Christ, we shall rid our garments of steady in their testimony. They in fasting and praying, and endure to the blood of all men, and be found endured in faith because they paid the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will spotless before the judgment-seat of the price to keep the companionship be saved.”3 Christ, and shall dwell with him eter- of the Holy Ghost and the burning The young Joseph Smith showed nally in the heavens. And the honor testimony He alone brings. us how to pray that way. He believed be to the Father, and to the Son, and Because of that, they had more in the promise he read in the book of to the Holy Ghost, which is one God. than a memory of the moment when James.4 He went to the grove with Amen. the Spirit whispered to their minds faith that his prayer would be Oliver Cowdery and hearts that God lived, that Jesus answered. He wanted to know which David Whitmer was the Christ, and that Joseph was church to join. He was submissive Martin Harris”2 their prophet. And they had more enough to be ready to do whatever Those you love can have more than a memory of the feeling of peace he was told to do. So he prayed, as we than the physical evidence given and the joy that witness brought. must, already committed to obey. those witnesses by what they saw and Because they qualified for the com- What he was told to do required heard. Those three witnesses had panionship of the Holy Ghost, they his whole soul and finally his life. He something more, something we all could say in every circumstance, how- endured during the 24 years that fol- need. The Holy Ghost bore witness to ever difficult: “I knew it then. I felt it lowed by continuing to pray with that their minds and hearts that what they was true then. I feel so now.” childlike faith and humility. We can saw and heard was true. The Spirit They did some simple things to teach those we love to pray with the told them that the angel was from keep that testimony bright and intent to obey. We can promise them God and that the voice was that of the vibrant. We can teach those we love to they will gain the companionship of Lord Jesus Christ. That witness of the do those same things. Done faithfully, the Holy Ghost. The Spirit will testify Spirit was given to them and many they allow the Holy Ghost to be a the truth to their hearts every time who were not there. It is a witness constant companion. And we can they read in the scriptures which that can, if we qualify for the compan- promise those we love that they will came to us through the Prophet ionship of the Holy Ghost, be ours feel joy and peace as the Spirit con- Joseph Smith. And the Spirit will con- and stay with us forever. firms truth, if they ask for that bless- firm again that God spoke through The Three Witnesses never denied ing in faith. His prophet. their testimony of the Book of Now, we teach things of the Spirit Teach them to ponder the scrip- Mormon. They could not because best with both example and testi- tures every day, with faith that they they knew it was true. They made sac- mony. I don’t remember much of will be taught by the Spirit. Now listen rifices and faced difficulties beyond what my parents said about the Holy to these words from scripture trans- what most people ever know. Oliver Ghost, but I remember what I felt lated by Joseph Smith. Expect to be Cowdery gave the same testimony when I saw them do the things which taught now what you should do. You about the divine origin of the Book of brought the Holy Ghost into our will feel impressions of how you Mormon as he lay dying. But in the home. Here are some things you can should approach the scriptures and times of trial, they wavered in their teach those you love with your exam- how you should teach that to the faith that Joseph was still God’s ple and testimony, with confidence people you love. prophet and that the only way to that the Lord will send the Spirit to “Wherefore, ye must press for- come unto the Savior was through His confirm truth to their minds and to ward with a steadfastness in Christ, restored Church. That they continued their hearts. having a perfect brightness of hope, to affirm what they saw and heard in Teach them to pray to the Father in and a love of God and of all men. that marvelous experience, during faith in the name of Jesus Christ. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, long periods of estrangement from There is a promise in the book of feasting upon the word of Christ, and the Church and from Joseph, makes Omni about that. endure to the end, behold, thus saith their testimony more powerful. “And now, my beloved brethren, I the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.”5 The Lord gave the witness of the would that ye should come unto The Prophet Joseph taught us what Spirit without the same physical evi- Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, it means to feast on the scriptures. He dence to others who were severely and partake of his salvation, and the said that the Book of Mormon would tested by opposition and tribulation. power of his redemption. Yea, come get a man “nearer to God by abiding

90 by its precepts, than by any other day, for they shall have the gift and home to build faith, as a home teacher book.”6 You will grow closer to the the power of the Holy Ghost; and if or a visiting teacher or a friend. Lord and love Him more. That is the they endure unto the end they shall Some may not feel that blessing in promise in Jacob 3:2: be lifted up at the last day, and shall their Church service. But that is “O all ye that are pure in heart, lift be saved in the everlasting kingdom because they have focused on the up your heads and receive the pleas- of the Lamb; and whoso shall publish mechanics and not the glorious oppor- ing word of God, and feast upon his peace, yea, tidings of great joy, how tunity of publishing “peace, yea, tid- love; for ye may, if your minds are beautiful upon the mountains shall ings of great joy” to God’s children in firm, forever.” they be.”8 His kingdom. When that is how we see You and those you love will receive All can claim that promise. The our service, we will not only be lifted the word of God by obeying it. That youngest and the newest member can up at the last day but refreshed and will allow them to feel His love. That seek to build up the kingdom of God. encouraged along the way. And the is one of the great blessings of the gift Zion is made up of individuals and Spirit will testify that this is the Lord’s of the Holy Ghost. When we feel that families. When their faith increases, kingdom restored in the latter days. love we can know that our course in the kingdom is established more Teach them to love others by serv- life is approved of God. That is the firmly. We can try to help with that ing others. That brings the Spirit. The feast of the delicious fruit described every day. Even the smallest act to Prophet Joseph taught that, and he in the Book of Mormon.7 build faith in another person or in a lived it. Of the many examples Teach them to sacrifice to build up family qualifies us for the gift and recorded of his loving nature, the one the kingdom of God. That sacrifice power of the Holy Ghost. The Holy which most touches me occurred in brings the testimony of the Spirit. The Ghost testifies of truth. Therefore, in Carthage Jail the night before his Prophet Joseph translated a wonder- our service, our faith increases that death. One of the men who went ful promise written by a prophet long Jesus is the Christ, that our Heavenly there with him was Dan Jones. The ago for our time: Father lives and loves us, and that Prophet sensed the danger from the “And blessed are they who shall Joseph was Their prophet. You can mob. He had reason to turn inward, seek to bring forth my Zion at that expect that, every time you go to a to think of himself and his own peril.

NOVEMBER 2003 91 “But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.”10 The Prophet Joseph is an example and a teacher of enduring well in faith. I do not worship him, but I thank and love him as the Lord’s prophet of the Restoration. He has helped me pray with the intent to obey. I am better able to feast in the word and the love of God. Because of him I feel the Holy Ghost more often in the moments when I try to build the faith of a person in the Lord’s kingdom. And because of what I know of the Prophet Joseph and the scriptures which were revealed through him, I more often feel the love of God for His children and of His for me when I reach down to lift someone up. My prayer is that we and those we love will endure in faith in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and in His kingdom. I pray that we will keep the promise as we take the sacrament to always remember Him so we may always have His Spirit to be with us. I pray that in family home evenings and in missionary discussions and in all the times we worship together, we will invite the Holy Spirit by what we do and what we say and by what we are. I testify that God lives. I know that Jesus Christ lives and that He is our Instead his heart turned outward to Tabernacle Choir. When we hear the Savior. This is His Church. Joseph was comfort someone else. choir sing, I hope we remember Dan His prophet. President Gordon B. “When all were apparently fast Jones, the faithful friend of the Hinckley is His prophet today. I know asleep, Joseph whispered to Dan Prophet Joseph. Teach those you love this by the Spirit, which tells me that Jones, ‘are you afraid to die?’ Dan to remember Joseph’s comfort given it is true. I so testify, in the sacred [answered], ‘Has that time come, when he needed comfort. When we name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ think you? Engaged in such a cause I comfort others, out of our faith in the NOTES do not think that death would have Lord, He sends the Comforter to us. 1. Enos 1:27. many terrors.’ Joseph replied, ‘You And the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, 2. “The Testimony of Three Witnesses,” Book of Mormon. will yet see Wales, and fulfill the mis- gave Joseph the power to give 3. Omni 1:26. sion appointed you before you die.’ ”9 prophetic and loving encouragement. 4. See James 1:5. 5. 2 Nephi 31:20. Dan Jones survived to serve mis- Joseph showed in his loving kind- 6. History of the Church, 4:461; see also sions in Wales. Thousands of Welsh ness the truth of the words from the 3 Nephi 5:18; D&C 17:6; D&C 20:6–10. converts came to Zion. Some were Book of Mormon: “Wherefore, cleave 7. See 1 Nephi 11:21–23; 15:36. 8. 1 Nephi 13:37. gifted singers. They were among the unto charity, which is the greatest of 9. History of the Church, 6:601. first members of what became the all, for all things must fail— 10. Moroni 7:46–47.

92 is a wonderful way to express love, the Savior chose a much more diffi- “Come, Follow Me” cult example when the lawyer asked Him the question, “And who is my ELDER WILLIAM W. PARMLEY neighbour?” (Luke 10:29). Of the Seventy There follows the familiar story of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was robbed and The admonition to “Come, follow me” and the question beaten and left by the roadside half “What would Jesus do?” provide powerful guidelines for living. dead. The Levite and the priest looked on him and passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, who was despised by the Jews, had compassion Using the template of these two and cared for him. The Samaritan did commandments, let us discuss how not ask about ethnicity before show- we can best follow Him. ing mercy. Jesus concluded this pow- The Savior’s example of the recip- erful story with the admonition to “go, rocal love between Him and His and do thou likewise” (Luke 10:37). Father was always evident. Frequent, In every big city, we have those long, and heartfelt prayers by the who are beaten down and left by the Savior have set a powerful example for roadside—those who are homeless, us to follow. The Father’s love for His destitute, hungry, and sick. Some say Son was ever apparent, particularly at that by giving them money we only the time of His baptism by John: “And support their habit of drug or alcohol lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is addiction, thus enabling them to con- my beloved Son, in whom I am well tinue a lifestyle they have chosen. It is pleased” (Matthew 3:17). so easy to judge these individuals and, The unity between the two was like Job’s friends, speculate about all apparent when the Savior said, “I and the mistakes they have made in their my Father are one” (John 10:30). lives that brought this great misery e are disciples of Jesus Understanding that His will and the upon them (see Job 22; Mosiah 4:17). Christ. In the words of Father’s might even be transiently dif- Before we pass by like the Levite WNephi, “We believe in Christ, ferent as in Gethsemane (see Matthew and the priest, however, let us consider . . . we talk of Christ, we rejoice in 26:39) reminds us that our prayers the admonition of the Savior to “Come, Christ, we preach of Christ, we proph- may not always be answered in our follow me.” Remember that the Savior esy of Christ” (2 Nephi 25:24, 26). To preconceived way. Nevertheless, was homeless, had only the clothes on believers everywhere, the three most prayer is a powerful action principle. His back, and was often hungry. What powerful behavioral words He spoke The Savior said that if one has faith and would He do? There is no question were “Come, follow me” (Luke 18:22; doubts not, “all things, whatsoever ye what He would do. He would show see also Matthew 16:24; Mark 1:17; shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall mercy and minister unto them. Luke 9:23). When asked by a scribe receive” (see Matthew 21:21–22). Our There are many ways to help the which is the most important com- love for the Savior must be accompa- homeless, including the contribution mandment, Jesus replied: nied by action: “If ye love me, keep my of time, goods, and money to human- “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God commandments” (John 14:15). itarian groups, soup kitchens, or with all thy heart, and with all thy Let us next consider the second of agencies that deal with these prob- soul, and with all thy mind, and with the great commandments, “Love thy lems. Nevertheless, it seems to me all thy strength: this is the first com- neighbour as thyself” (Matthew that we must also show mercy unto mandment. 22:39), or its higher level counterpart them. The established principles of “And the second is . . . Thou shalt taught to the Apostles, “That ye love welfare are an appropriate guide. love thy neighbour as thyself. There is one another; as I have loved you” Remember that the poor will always none other commandment greater (John 13:34). Although having the be with us (see Mark 14:7). than these” (Mark 12:30–31). next-door neighbors over for dinner The Savior emphasized this

NOVEMBER 2003 93 principle again when He discussed for charity never faileth. Wherefore, in secret. He taught us to turn the the Judgment Day and the separation cleave unto charity, which is the great- other cheek and to go the extra mile. of the sheep from the goats: est of all, for all things must fail— He especially cautioned us to lay up “Then shall the righteous answer “But charity is the pure love of treasures in heaven rather than treas- him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee Christ, and it endureth forever; and ures on earth. (See Matthew 5–7.) an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, whoso is found possessed of it at the As we contemplate the full mean- and gave thee drink? last day, it shall be well with him” ing of the phrase “Come, follow me,” “When saw we thee a stranger, and (Moroni 7:46–47). it is apparent that we may have much took thee in? or naked, and clothed Jesus both taught and exemplified to learn and much to do before we thee? many personal qualities which we can fully respond to that injunction. It “Or when saw we thee sick, or in should consider as we try to follow is of interest, however, that during the prison, and came unto thee? Him. These qualities include love, first 30 years of His life in Nazareth, “And the King shall answer and say meekness, humility, compassion, Jesus apparently drew little attention unto them, Verily I say unto you, thirsting after righteousness, being to Himself even though He was living Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one prayerful, merciful, and pure in heart. a sinless life (see Matthew 13:54–56; of the least of these my brethren, ye We should never judge others but Mark 6:2–3). That should encourage have done it unto me” (Matthew should do unto our neighbor as we us to do better in our own quiet and 25:37–40). would have them do unto us. He humble way without drawing atten- Peter emphasized the importance taught that we should be the salt of tion to ourselves. The admonition to of this kind of charity when he said, the earth and a light unto the world. “Come, follow me” and the question “And above all things have fervent He said that what a man thinketh in “What would Jesus do?” provide pow- charity among yourselves: for charity his heart is as important as his out- erful guidelines for living. Paying more shall cover the multitude of sins” ward actions. We were told to forgive attention to these guidelines will help (1 Peter 4:8). everyone, including our debtors, and all of us become more Christlike in Mormon expressed similar senti- to love our enemies. Not only are we our thoughts and actions. ments with this admonition: to be peacemakers, but we are also to Of the Savior, who is our exemplar, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, rejoice in persecution. He advised us I bear personal witness that He lives. if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, to give our alms and to fast and pray In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

94 plains under very adverse circumstances, William Clayton penned the Are You a Saint? great hymn “Come, Come, Ye Saints.” It was a hymn that stirred their souls ELDER QUENTIN L. COOK and helped them remember their Of the Seventy sacred mission. Who among us does not become emotional as we feel their sacrifice, courage, and commit- If we are to be Saints in our day, we need to separate ment when we sing: “And should we ourselves from evil conduct and destructive pursuits die before our journey’s through, / that are prevalent in the world. Happy day! All is well!”3 This hymn gave them comfort, sol- ace, and hope in a time of great difficulty with almost insurmountable David B. Haight. They were both exec- obstacles. It buoyed them up and utives in Chicago with a large retail highlighted the fact that this mortal chain following World War II. He told life is a journey between premortal life me of the significant influence Elder and eternal life to come—the great Haight had been in his life and that he plan of happiness. Brother Clayton’s held him in the highest regard. inspiring hymn emphasizes sacrifices As I flew back home to San and what it really means to be a Saint. Francisco, I thought about what had Our pioneer members met the chal- occurred, especially in two respects: lenges of their day to be Saints. I was surprised at how it felt to be The word saint in Greek denotes asked if I was a Saint, and I was “set apart, separate, [and] holy.”4 If we impressed with the positive influence are to be Saints in our day, we need to one outstanding example—Elder separate ourselves from evil conduct Haight—had on this good man. and destructive pursuits that are What does it mean to be a Saint? In prevalent in the world. the Lord’s Church, the members are We are bombarded with visual Latter-day Saints, and they attempt to images of violence and immorality. number of years ago I was in emulate the Savior, follow His teach- Inappropriate music and pornogra- Atlanta, Georgia, as an attorney ings, and receive saving ordinances in phy are increasingly tolerated. The A representing a man who was order to live in the celestial kingdom use of drugs and alcohol is rampant. buying a business. After several days of with God the Father and our Savior There is less emphasis on honesty negotiations we reached an agree- Jesus Christ.1 The Savior said, “This is and character. Individual rights are ment and signed the closing docu- my gospel; and ye know the things demanded, but duties, responsibili- ments. That evening one of the sellers that ye must do in my church; for the ties, and obligations are neglected. invited us to a dinner to celebrate the works which ye have seen me do that There has been a coarsening of dia- closing. When I arrived, he offered me shall ye also do.”2 logue and increased exposure to that an alcoholic drink, which I declined. It is not easy to be a Latter-day which is base and vulgar. The adver- He then said, “Are you a Saint?” I didn’t Saint. It was not meant to be easy. The sary has been relentless in his efforts fully understand what he meant, and ultimate goal of living in the presence to undermine the plan of happiness. he repeated, “Are you a Latter-day of God the Father and His Son, Jesus If we separate ourselves from this Saint?” I responded, “Yes, I am,” and Christ, is a privilege almost beyond worldly conduct, we will have the he said he had been observing my comprehension. Spirit in our lives and experience the personal habits during our negotia- Among the greatest trials the joy of being worthy Latter-day Saints. tions and had concluded that I was Church has ever faced were the As Saints, we also need to avoid the either LDS or had a stomach problem. Martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph worship of worldly gods. President We both chuckled. He then informed Smith and then ultimately the expul- Hinckley has expressed the desire that me that he had only known one mem- sion of the Saints from Nauvoo. When “everyone might have some of the ber of the Church on a personal basis, they were making their way across the good things of life” but has cautioned,

NOVEMBER 2003 95 asked, “Are you a Saint?” may I suggest three questions that will allow for a self-assessment. First, is the way we live consistent with what we believe, and would our friends and associates recognize, as Elder Haight’s friend did, that we have separated ourselves from worldly evils? Second, are worldly pleasures, profits, and similar pursuits distracting us from following, worshiping, and serving the Savior in our daily lives? Third, in order to serve God and be holy, are we making sacrifices consistent with our covenants? What a wonderful blessing it is to be a Latter-day Saint. I love the words in the last lines of the hymn “O Saints of Zion”:

O Saints of Zion, tread the paths Your faithful fathers trod. “It is the obsession with riches that world needs to be accompanied by Lift up your hearts in gratitude cankers and destroys.”5 holiness. A Saint loves the Savior And serve the living God!12 In 1630 John Winthrop set forth a and follows Him in holiness and devo- vision for the new land (America) on tion.9 Evidence of this kind of holi- I testify that avoiding evil and behalf of his fellow passengers as he ness and devotion is exemplified by destructive pursuits and sacrificing in sailed on board the Arbella. It has consecration and sacrifice. President order to serve will qualify us to expe- become known as “The City upon a Hinckley has taught, “Without sacri- rience the joy of being committed Hill” sermon. In the final paragraph, fice there is no true worship of Latter-day Saints and, as the scriptures Winthrop references Deuteronomy 30 God.”10 Sacrifice is the crowning test promise, bring “peace in this world, and warns against worshiping and of the gospel. It means consecrating and eternal life in the world to serving other gods—particularly time, talents, energy, and earthly pos- come.”13 In the name of Jesus Christ, emphasizing “pleasures, and profits.”6 sessions to further the work of God. amen. ■ In the recent past President Kimball In Doctrine and Covenants 97, verse NOTES counseled that even homes, boats, 8, it concludes, “All . . . who . . . are 1. See 2 Nephi 9:18. credentials, titles, and other similar willing to observe their covenants by 2. 3 Nephi 27:21. pursuits can be worshiped as idols sacrifice—yea, every sacrifice which I, 3. Hymns, no. 30. 4. In Daniel H. Ludlow, ed., Encyclopedia of when they entice us away from love the Lord, shall command—they are Mormonism, 5 vols. (1992), 3:1249. and service to God.7 accepted of me.” 5. Gordon B. Hinckley, “Thou Shalt Not The prophet Moroni, speaking of Saints who respond to the Savior’s Covet,” Tambuli, Feb. 1991, 6; Ensign, Mar. 1990, 4–5. our day, warned about the love of message will not be led astray by dis- 6. “A Model of Christian Charity,” in Robert L. money and substance and suggested tracting and destructive pursuits and Ferm, ed., Issues in American Protestantism (1969), 11. that we would love them more than will be prepared to make appropriate 7. See The Miracle of Forgiveness (1969), we “love the poor and the needy, the sacrifices. The importance of sacrifice 40–41. sick and the afflicted.”8 to those who want to be Saints is 8. Mormon 8:37. 9. See Wm. Grant Bangerter, “What It Means If we are to be worthy Saints, we exemplified by the atoning sacrifice of to Be a Saint,” Ensign, May 1987, 11. should minister to others and adhere the Savior, which is at the center of 10. Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley (1997), to the Savior’s admonition to love the gospel.11 565. 11. See Alma 34:8–16. God and our fellowmen. Coming back to the original ques- 12. Hymns, no. 39. Separation from the evils of the tion that my acquaintance in Atlanta 13. D&C 59:23.

96 of the accident, I rushed to the hospital, hoping to hear that Zach was alive The Empowerment and would recover. The parents, in a most dignified and peaceful manner, explained that Zach would now be serving his mission on the other side of Humility of the veil. As I witnessed the calm resolve of these two strong parents, I BISHOP RICHARD C. EDGLEY realized that through the pain and First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric anguish there was a peace that could come only through a deep and abid- The strength of the Church is in the millions of humble ing faith in a loving Father and an members striving every day to do the will of the Savior. atoning Savior. My faith was strengthened, and through their inspiration my resolve to follow their example in meeting similar trials and tragedies was reaffirmed. and that I would be a better person if I could have also answered that my I possessed some of the qualities that hero is Tom Abbott and his son John, made those men great. my faithful home teachers who never When my turn came to respond, I missed a home teaching assignment turned to a brother on my right, a few even though we are often a difficult seats down the row from me, and family to catch at home. I could have said, “My hero is Ken Sweatfield and named dozens of others that I admire his wife, Jo Ann.” For 20 years I and could call my heroes. Many do watched Ken and Jo Ann care for their not hold so-called high or prominent comatose son with all the love and callings in the Church, but all are wor- patience a parent could possibly give. thy to hold any position. None are I had often pondered the shattered widely known to the general member- hopes and dreams they surely had for ship of the Church, but all, I am cer- Shane before he suffered a terrible tain, are known by name to our automobile accident just two weeks Heavenly Father. before he was to begin his mission in On the occasions that I am able to Leeds, England. I have watched Ken attend sacrament meeting in my own ome time ago in my high and Jo Ann wheel Shane into the sun- ward, I am often reflective as I look priests quorum meeting, the light or push him through the neigh- down in the congregation and see the Sinstructor introduced the les- borhood, describing the scenery, same faces Sunday after Sunday. son by asking each of us to respond hoping that he might hear and feel, Some I have seen regularly in sacra- to who our hero is and why. As each and hoping that the fresh air and sun- ment meeting for more than 20 years. member took his turn responding, light might lighten a very subdued Again, most are not in the limelight of the answers were not unexpected. Of spirit. For 20 years there were no the Church, but all consistently attend course someone named the Savior, vacations from this care, few evenings their meetings and privately meet the Redeemer of the world. Another out, but there was always a spirit of life’s challenges. spoke of Abraham Lincoln, who freed faith, optimism, and gratitude—never These are the many members I the slaves, led the United States a show of anger, despair, or question- see, admire, and am grateful for. They through a civil war, and eventually ing of God’s purposes. are not seeking position, prominence, unified the country. Others chose the I then turned to a brother on my or fame, but each is earning a place in Prophet Joseph Smith and our left and said, “My hero is Jim Newton our Father’s kingdom by taking care beloved current prophet, Gordon B. and his wife, Helen.” Shortly after Jim of the business of everyday living. Hinckley. As each named a hero, I and Helen’s son Zach received his They are consistently doing the unno- silently concurred and acknowledged mission call to Peru, he was taken in ticed, the unspectacular, but humbly that all were men worthy of emulating an automobile accident. When I heard and righteously doing the important.

NOVEMBER 2003 97 you want me to do?” The story goes that sobbing, Joseph ran from the podium, threw his arms around Brigham, and said in effect, “You passed, Brother Brigham, you passed” (see Truman G. Madsen, “Hugh B. Brown—Youthful Veteran,” New Era, Apr. 1976, 16). Many of us live or work in an environment where humility is often misunderstood and considered a weakness. Not many corporations or institutions include humility as a value statement or a desired characteristic of their management. Yet as we learn about the workings of God, the power of a humble and submissive spirit becomes apparent. In the kingdom of God, greatness begins with humility and submissiveness. These companion virtues are the first critical steps to opening the doors to the blessings of God and the power of the priesthood. It matters not who we are or how lofty our credentials appear. Humility and submissiveness to the Lord, coupled with a grateful heart, Challenges they have, but out of their of social or economic status or posi- are our strength and our hope. bitter struggles they are able to find tion, their humility leads to submis- In giving the requirements for the sweetness that is so often the siveness to the Lord’s will. And membership in His Church, the Lord silent companion to adversity. This second, in spite of the difficulties and stated, “All those who humble them- picture is duplicated hundreds of trials of life, they are able to maintain selves before God . . . and come forth times in thousands of wards through- a sense of gratitude for God’s bless- with broken hearts and contrite spir- out the world. They are The Church ings and life’s goodness. Humility and its, . . . [these are the ones who] shall of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. gratitude are truly the twin character- be received by baptism into his Yes, the strength of the Church is istics of happiness. church” (D&C 20:37). in the millions of humble members A story is told of an encounter And so within the membership of striving every day to do the will of the between the Prophet Joseph Smith the Church we see men and women Savior—day by day, one step at a time. and Brigham Young. In the presence of all backgrounds humbly submitting These humble members come from of a rather large group of brethren, to the counsel of God. We see the all nationalities, all social strata, and the Prophet severely chastised prominent business executive gra- every economic background. They Brother Brigham for some failing in ciously and humbly receiving and include those of the highest educa- his duty. Everyone, I suppose some- being taught by a humble, sometimes tional backgrounds as well as those of what stunned, waited to see what even intimidated, home teacher. We the humblest who live in the smallest Brigham’s response would be. After see the highly educated humbly fol- hamlets in the most remote areas of all, Brigham, who later became lowing counsel from their bishops, the world—all having hearts throb- known as the Lion of the Lord, was who sometimes have little formal bing with a vital testimony of Jesus no shrinking violet by any means. education. We see former bishops Christ and a desire to serve the Lord. Brigham slowly rose to his feet, and in and stake presidents graciously and As I have pondered these faithful words that truly reflected his charac- humbly accepting calls to teach in the members, I am struck by two qualities ter and his humility, he simply bowed Primary, assist in the nursery, or they all seem to have. First, regardless his head and said, “Joseph, what do assemble humanitarian kits to be sent

98 to the needy throughout the world. We see thousands of mature couples leaving their comfortable homes to How Choice live in circumstances to which they are not accustomed, to humbly serve the poverty-stricken throughout the world—and then serve again and a Seer! again and again. We see the poverty- stricken in the world humbly sacrific- ELDER NEAL A. MAXWELL ing to share their meager substance of Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles life with those who are even more destitute. And each, in their humility, If Joseph Smith had been the conduit for only one such is serving and giving with a grateful divine revelation, it would be, standing alone, sufficient heart and giving praise to God. King Benjamin warned that we to ensure his prophetic greatness. must “[become] as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict As Ammon’s experience taught, upon [us]” (Mosiah 3:19). a seer has the power to translate Humbly submitting our will to the ancient records, and “a seer is greater Father brings us the empowerment of than a prophet.” But, said Ammon, “a God—the power of humility. It is the seer is a . . . prophet also” (see Mosiah power to meet life’s adversities, the 8:11–16). Thus called, Joseph has power of peace, the power of hope, become “a great benefit to his fellow the power of a heart throbbing with a beings” (Mosiah 8:18). love for and testimony of the Savior The “choice” translator brought Jesus Christ, even the power of forth—“by the gift and power of God” redemption. To this end, the Savior is (D&C 135:3)—the Book of Mormon, our supreme example of the power of something tangible and verifiable. For humility and submissiveness. After all, all who heed it, the Book of Mormon His submitting His will to the Father is like the flinging open of long-closed brought about the greatest, and even doors on what was assumed to be a the most powerful, event in all of his- complete canon of scripture. tory. Perhaps some of the most sacred Noted on the very title page is the words in all the scriptures are simply, rom 1820 on, Joseph Smith book’s special role in “convincing” “Not my will, but thine, be done” was steadily attacked in a pat- mortals “that Jesus is the Christ” (see (Luke 22:42). Ftern of accusations—followed also 2 Nephi 25:18). In a day of disbe- So we have the thousands, even by eventual vindications. The pat- lief and equivocation regarding this millions, of throbbing hearts— tern continues. preeminent fact, this “convincing” heroes, I suspect we could say, but Just as prophesied, fools deride effect is so needed! How sharp-edged perhaps a more appropriate descrip- him, hell rages against him, and his that promise! tion is merely humble followers of name is “both good and evil spoken The Book of Mormon will be “read the Savior Jesus Christ. And, as of” (Joseph Smith—History 1:33). upon the housetops” (2 Nephi 27:11). President Hinckley has asked of each This swirl needlessly preoccupies Even if neglected, it will constitute a of us, they are just doing their best— a few who seem to prefer chewing lingering invitation for “as long as the one day at a time. on old bones in the outer courtyard earth shall stand” (2 Nephi 25:22). May a humble and submissive instead of coming inside to the No wonder “the ends of the earth heart be our empowerment from resplendent, revelatory banquet, shall inquire after [Joseph’s] name” God with all of its attendant blessings thus diverting them from giving due (D&C 122:1). Reassuring prophecies is my humble prayer. In the name of attention to Joseph’s mission as “a further declare that Joseph’s enemies Jesus Christ, amen. ■ choice seer” (see 2 Nephi 3:6–7). “shall be confounded” and that the

NOVEMBER 2003 99 to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no” (Deuteronomy 8:2). Therefore, disciples today can understand why our faith and patience are tried at times— so that we can be prepared to go Home (see Mosiah 23:21). Brothers and sisters, we do not go many hours in our lives without having to decide again “which way do we face” and whether we will pitch our tents facing Sodom or the holy temple (see Genesis 13:12; Mosiah 2:6). God has no distracting hobbies off somewhere in the universe. We are at the very center of His concerns and purposes. What a sharp contrast to those who believe that man lives in Prophet’s people will not be “turned exceeding the astrophysics of the an “unconscious universe” (Bertrand against [him]” by the testimony of trai- 1830s, a cosmos containing “worlds Russell, “A Free Man’s Worship,” in tors (see 2 Nephi 3:14; D&C 122:3). without number” and advising us fur- Mysticism and Logic and Other As President Faust reminded us ther that the “inhabitants thereof are Essays [1917], 50), a “universe . . . yesterday, of his own imperfections, begotten sons and daughters [of] without a master” (Albert Camus, The Joseph said, “I never told you I was per- God” (Moses 1:33; D&C 76:24). Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays, fect—but there is no error in the reve- Anciently, the vastness of trans. Justin O’Brien [1955], 123). lations which I have taught” (Andrew F. Abraham’s eventual posterity was Revelations likewise came about Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook, The Words compared to the sand of the sea, a our longevity as God’s spirit children, of Joseph Smith [1980], 369). staggering promise (see Genesis since “man was also in the beginning Ironically, young Joseph Smith 22:17). The Restoration’s revelations with God”—a declaration accompa- went into the grove merely wanting and translations accommodate a vast nied by even further glimmers about to know which church to join—not universe; thus it is no surprise to us man’s eternal nature (see D&C seeking to be called as a seer, revela- that scientists’ latest estimate of the 93:29). These enunciations with their tor, translator, and prophet (see D&C number of stars in the universe is profound implications are major, chal- 21:1). In the grove and subsequently, approximately 70 sextillion—“more lenging, for instance, the teaching there came sunbursts of serendipity! stars in the sky,” scientists say, “than that man was created in an instant The resulting revelations and transla- there are grains of sand in every “out of nothing.” tions were not mere speculations, beach and desert on Earth” (Allison M. A further reality of our being with thoughts for the day, or even epi- Heinrichs, “The Stellar Census: God “in the beginning” means that grams, but instead they were divine, 70 Sextillion,” Los Angeles Times, you have been you for a long time. declarative disclosures. 26 July 2003; see also Carl Sagan, Hence the Apostle John correctly The volume of resulting revelations Cosmos [1980], 196). wrote that “[God] first loved us” (see and translations is enormous, under- Revelations and translations also 1 John 4:19). Likewise, amid the mor- scoring the words “choice seer.” But it came regarding God’s central pur- tal turbulence, we learn who other isn’t just the sheer volume of what pose “to bring to pass the immortality mortals really are—our spiritual Joseph received which is now being and eternal life of man,” giving us brothers and sisters, not functions, shared with mankind; it is also the divine, succinct reassurances (see rivals, or enemies. Moreover, we existence of “stunners” in the midst of Moses 1:39). God’s plans for the should have a special sanctity and such abundance. development of souls have not regard for human life. Through multiple revelations and changed. They were described to “Stunners” all, these three revela- translations, for example, came a ancient Israel, whose 40 years in the tions and translations are especially description of a universe far, far wilderness were “to humble thee, and responsive to the deepest human

100 yearnings and puzzlements. They restructure our understanding of the nature of God, of the universe, and likewise of our personal identity and of life’s meaning! What could be more personal than these brief but encompassing declarations? If Joseph Smith had been the conduit for only one such divine revelation, it would be, standing alone, sufficient to ensure his prophetic greatness. Yet even though God wants to give us “all that [He] hath,” we suffer from a poverty of perceptions! (see D&C 84:38). Little wonder that Paul commended Abraham, who “staggered not . . . [in] unbelief” (Romans 4:20). There is a risk when we contemplate the doctrines of the Restoration that we might “stagger” in the face of such bold and promising truths. Given such breathtaking revelations and translations, let us, therefore, heed King Benjamin’s counsel: “Believe in God; . . . believe that man Joseph and Emma Smith are the subjects of a statue on the Church Office doth not comprehend all the things Building plaza. which the Lord can comprehend” (Mosiah 4:9). I have saved for last the preemi- the lyrics of the moving spiritual of An omnicompetent God leaves all nent revelation that truly ranks first: yesteryear, “Nobody knows the trouble mortals free to choose, but how the theophanies showing the reality I’ve seen, nobody knows but Jesus.” grateful we should be that God chose of a resurrected Jesus Christ who is Brothers and sisters, the cast of long, long ago to rescue and to resur- our Savior! Beginning with the Sacred players on this planet for whom the rect all His children through the Grove, other confirming appearances revelations and translations are so Atonement of His Son. Nevertheless, soon followed in obscure locations pertinent includes those who, in that some reject and many are indifferent like Kirtland and Hiram, and all familiar phrase, are living “lives of to these and other divine beckonings, mankind thereby received this des- quiet desperation” (see Henry David mostly because they are too caught perately needed confirmation. Thoreau, Walden [1965], 7). They up in the cares of the world. They are Alas, in a secular world Jesus is have now been joined by those living strangers to the Savior, who is far regarded by many, at best, as a distant lives of noisy, slurping indulgence, from the thoughts and intents of their figure; He is even denigrated. How wrongly celebrating their capacity to hearts (see Mosiah 5:13). transcendingly special, therefore, that feel so that they finally lose their In the midst of God’s plan and the the revelations of the Restoration capacity to feel and become “past universe’s incredible vastness is confirm this cosmic fact: “God so feeling” (see Moroni 9:20; Ephesians incredible personalness. For example, loved the world, that he gave his only 4:19; 1 Nephi 17:45). Hence they lick “[God] looketh down upon all the begotten Son” (John 3:16). their particular platters in a desperate children of men; and he knows all the Jesus, who performed the “infinite search for more sensations. Such indi- thoughts and intents of the heart” atonement,” thereby suffered infinitely viduals, however, are still not a major- (Alma 18:32; see also Isaiah 66:18). and is a fully comprehending Savior, ity but a “lesser part” of the people Since we are thus fully accountable having “descended below all things” (see Mosiah 29:26–27). to Him, on Judgment Day we cannot and “comprehended all things” Notably, at the last day the adversary invoke the Fifth Amendment! (2 Nephi 9:7; D&C 88:6). Yes, as in “will not support” those who followed

NOVEMBER 2003 101 him anyway (see Alma 30:60). He cannot. Jesus will triumph majesti- cally, and the adversary’s clever con- Let Us Live the structs, “pleasing to the carnal mind,” will also collapse, and “the fall thereof will be exceedingly great” (see Alma 30:53; 1 Nephi 11:36). Even now, one Gospel More Fully can see in the lives of those prodigals who come to themselves the devil’s PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY doctrines dripping in early meltdown (see Luke 15:17). Many, having expe- What a tremendous work you are doing, you faithful Latter- rienced the utter emptiness of the day Saints all across the world, who carry in your hearts lower ways, are “in a preparation to hear the word” and now await being a firm and unswerving testimony. informed of the rescuing revelations and translations (see Alma 32:6). Brothers and sisters, we dare not hold back the restored gospel’s declar- Saints have within their hearts a atives! We dare not hold back the reas- desire to do the right thing, to live suring revelations and truth-telling after the manner which the Lord has translations about “things as they really outlined for us. We have been are, and . . . things as they really will reminded of many of these things be.” These are so needed by those during this conference. whose weary hands hang down I hope that when we return to our because they suffer from doctrinal ane- homes, before retiring for the night mia, which can best be treated by the we each will get on our knees and red blood cells of the Restoration (see express our appreciation and ask for Jacob 4:13). To hold back would be to the strength to live the gospel more restrain repentance and to obscure the fully as a result of this conference. beckoning spiritual alternative, which I am so grateful for the beautiful will become “fair as the sun, and clear music of the choir; they have sung so as the moon” (see D&C 105:31). wonderfully. This is such a great and Meanwhile, let us expect that many dedicated organization, and we thank will regard us indifferently. Others will all who give so generously of their see us as quaint or misled. Let us bear hat a glorious time we have time and talents to this great effort. I the pointing fingers which, ironically, had together, my beloved am grateful for the music yesterday of belong to those finally who, being Wbrethren and sisters. It is the singles choir; they were an inspi- bored, find the “great and spacious truly a wonderful thing to step out of ration. And the great singing last building” to be a stale and cramped the world, as it were, and set aside night of the young men in the third-class hotel (see 1 Nephi 8:31–33). two days to reflect on things divine. Missionary Training Center, who Let us revile not the revilers and heed We are all so busy with our mun- came and sang to us with great them not (see D&C 31:9). Instead, let dane pursuits which pull us this way power, thank you so very much for us use our energy to hold up the and that. We all need, the whole what you have given us. shield of faith to quench the incoming world needs, the opportunity to Now I would like to read in conclu- fiery darts—aided perhaps by a touch meditate and reflect on the things of sion just a few words from Moroni: of spiritual Teflon (see 1 Nephi 15:24). God and to listen to words that “And awake, and arise from the Brothers and sisters, given all of inspire and help. dust, O Jerusalem; yea, and put on the foregoing, “what can I say more” Our testimonies have been thy beautiful garments, O daughter of except “Praise to the man who com- strengthened, and it is good, for as Zion; and strengthen thy stakes and muned with Jehovah!” (Jacob 6:12; President Harold B. Lee once said, our enlarge thy borders forever, that thou “Praise to the Man,” Hymns, no. 27). testimonies need renewing every day.1 mayest no more be confounded, that In the name of Jesus Christ, amen! ■ I am satisfied that the Latter-day the covenants of the Eternal Father

102 which he hath made unto thee, hearts a firm and unswerving testi- lifting up the feeble knees of those in O house of Israel, may be fulfilled. mony of the reality of the living God distress. “Yea, come unto Christ, and be and of the Lord Jesus Christ, our This gospel is an intimate thing. It perfected in him, and deny yourselves Savior and our Redeemer, and of is not some distant concept. It is of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny Their appearance in this dispensation applicable in our lives. It can change yourselves of all ungodliness, and love to begin anew a great era in the his- our very natures. God with all your might, mind and tory of the world in preparation for May God bless you, my wonderful, strength, then is his grace sufficient that time when the Son of God shall faithful associates, in this great work. for you, that by his grace ye may be come to reign as Lord of lords and May His peace and His love be upon perfect in Christ; and if by the grace King of kings. you and enshrine your lives with an of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can May the blessings of heaven rest essence of godliness. in nowise deny the power of [Christ]” upon you, my dear friends. I pray that As we return to our homes, I pray (Moroni 10:31–32). what you have heard and seen may that in our hearts there will be a reso- As a result of this great conference make a difference in your lives. I pray lution to live together more fully as each of us should be a better man or that each of us will be a little more we should do as Latter-day Saints. I a better woman, a better boy or a bet- kind, a little more thoughtful, a little leave my love and my blessing with ter girl. Thank you so much, my more courteous. I pray that we will you in the sacred name of the Lord brothers and sisters, for your great keep our tongues in check and not let Jesus Christ. God be with you till we service in moving this work forward. anger prompt words which we would meet again. Thank you, and amen. ■ What a tremendous work you are later regret. I pray that we may have NOTE doing, you faithful Latter-day Saints all the strength and the will to turn the 1. See Gordon B. Hinckley, Faith: The Essence across the world, who carry in your other cheek, to walk the extra mile in of True Religion (1989), 93.

NOVEMBER 2003 103 GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING 27 September 2003

The Savior’s response strikingly clarified what mattered most. On that Choosing Charity: evening in Martha’s home, the good part was not in the kitchen; it was at the Lord’s feet. Dinner could wait. Like Mary, I hunger to feast at the That Good Part Savior’s feet, while, like Martha, I need to somehow find the laundry BONNIE D. PARKIN room floor, empty my in-box, and Relief Society General President serve my husband something other than cold pizza. I have 15 grandchil- I invite you to not only love each other more dren whose tender little spirits and but love each other better. daily challenges I want to better understand, yet I also have a slightly demanding Church calling! I don’t have lots of time. Like all of you, I have to choose. We all are trying to we are going to talk about tonight, choose the good part which cannot choosing that good part. be taken from us, to balance the spiri- Martha lived in the small village of tual and the temporal in our lives. Bethany, where she “received [Jesus] Wouldn’t it be easy if we were choos- into her house. And she had a sister ing between visiting teaching or rob- called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ bing a bank? Instead, our choices are feet and heard his word.”3 Both often more subtle. We must choose women loved the Lord. And “Jesus between many worthy options. loved Martha, and [Mary].”4 In fact, Mary and Martha are you and me; their relationship breached conven- they are every sister in Relief Society. tion, for at that time women were These two loved the Lord and wanted not usually able to discuss the gospel to show that love. On this occasion, it with men. seems to me that Mary expressed her On one occasion Martha was mak- love by hearing His word, while Martha ing dinner and, as the scripture says, expressed hers by serving Him. “was cumbered about much serving.”5 Martha thought she was doing In other words, she was stressed out! right and that her sister should be t’s wonderful to be together as Mary, on the other hand, “sat at helping her. Relief Society sisters, covenant Jesus’ feet, and heard his word,”6 while I don’t believe the Lord was saying Iwomen in the Lord’s restored Martha became increasingly upset that there are Marthas and there are gospel. Each of you—no matter your no one was helping her. Does that Marys. Jesus did not dismiss Martha’s age, stage of life, or circumstance—is sound familiar? Do you think she was concern, but instead redirected her needed, valued, and loved in Relief thinking, “Why is Mary sitting there focus by saying choose “that good Society. Thank you for who you are; while I’m sweating over this stove?” So part.” And what is that? The prophet thank you for all that you do. Martha turned to Jesus and said, “Lord, Lehi taught that we “should look to In my office hangs a wonderful dost thou not care that my sister hath the great Mediator, and hearken unto painting depicting Jesus with Mary left me to serve alone? bid her there- his great commandments; and be and Martha.1 Every day as I am fore that she help me.”7 faithful unto his words, and choose greeted by this piece, I reflect on our The Lord’s gentle invitation to eternal life, according to the will of his challenges as women. Sister Hughes, Martha may have surprised her. Holy Spirit.”9 Sister Pingree, and I felt inspired to “Martha, Martha, thou art careful and The one thing that is needful is to use the account of Mary and Martha troubled about many things: But one choose eternal life. We choose daily. as the theme for our meeting. The thing is needful: and Mary hath cho- As we seek, listen, and follow the Lord taught, one thing is needful: sen that good part, which shall not be Lord, we are encircled in the arms of choose that good part.2 That is what taken away from her.”8 His love—a love that is pure.

104 Mormon teaches us that “charity to His love for each of us. We cannot allow ourselves to feel inad- is the pure love of Christ, and it The story of Mary and Martha also equate by focusing on who we aren’t endureth forever.”10 The pure love of illustrates how the gift of charity can instead of on who we are! We are all Christ. Let’s look at that. What does be diminished. Within Martha’s sisters in Relief Society. We simply can- this phrase mean? We find part of the request for assistance was an unspo- not criticize, gossip, or judge and keep answer in Joshua: “Take diligent heed ken but clear judgment: “I am right; the pure love of Christ. Can’t you hear . . . to love the Lord your God . . . and she is wrong.” the Lord’s sweet injunction: “Martha, to serve him with all your heart and Do we judge one another? Do we Martha . . . ?” with all your soul.”11 Charity is our criticize each other for individual Elder Marvin J. Ashton beautifully love for the Lord, shown through our choices, thinking we know better, observed: “Perhaps the greatest char- acts of service, patience, compassion, when in fact we rarely understand ity comes when we are kind to each and understanding for one another. another’s unique circumstance or other, when we don’t judge or catego- Additional insight into the pure individual inspiration? Have we ever rize someone else, when we simply love of Christ is found in Ether: said, “She works outside the home.” give each other the benefit of the “[Jesus has] loved the world, even Or, “Her son didn’t serve a mission.” doubt or remain quiet. Charity is unto the laying down of [His] life for Or, “She’s too old for a calling.” Or, accepting someone’s differences, the world, that [He might] take it “She can’t—she’s single.” Such judg- weaknesses, and shortcomings; hav- again to prepare a place for the chil- ments, and so many others like them, ing patience with someone who has dren of men. And now I know that rob us of the good part, that pure let us down; or resisting the impulse this love which [He has] for the chil- love of Christ. to become offended when someone dren of men is charity.”12 Charity is We also lose sight of that good part doesn’t handle something the way we also the Lord’s love for us, shown when we compare ourselves to others. might have hoped. Charity is refusing through His acts of service, patience, Her hair is cuter, my legs are fatter, her to take advantage of another’s weak- compassion, and understanding. children are more talented, or her gar- ness and being willing to forgive The “pure love of Christ”13 refers den’s more productive—sisters, you someone who has hurt us. Charity is not only to our love for the Savior but know the drill. We just can’t do that. expecting the best of each other.”14

NOVEMBER 2003 105 the overwhelming feeling that my study should focus on charity. This prompting was confirmed in sacrament meeting, and I knew I had received direction from the Lord. In associating with many of you, I have experienced overwhelming love for you and your goodness. I have been humbled by your sustaining support. My desires to serve you have deepened. These are the feelings of charity; these are answers to my prayers; these are some of the sweetest moments of my calling. I must have made some progress, because some of my children are asking why I’ve been so nice lately. This December I will give my Father in Heaven an accounting of my efforts to understand and exercise charity. Just as He did with Mary and Martha, the Lord will show us that good part which shall not be taken from us. He will grant us charity, that pure love of Christ, for “charity never faileth.” Dear sisters, one thing is needful, to follow Him each day. Choose ye therefore Christ the Lord. Choose to feast upon His word. Choose to trust in Him above. Choose to wait upon His love. Choose to give Him all In exercising charity, we come to guidance we receive. We put Christ your heart. Choose ye therefore that know a sister’s heart. When we know first, restoring charity’s circular love. good part. a sister’s heart, we are different. We “We love him, because he first loved For this I pray, in the name of Jesus won’t judge her. We will simply love us.”16 This is the reciprocating cycle of Christ, amen. ■ her. I invite you to not only love each charity. Sisters, “charity never faileth.” other more but love each other bet- When I received this calling, I NOTES ter. As we do this we will come to desired with all my heart to have 1. Mary Heard His Word, by Walter Rane, know with a surety that “charity enough charity to genuinely love every courtesy of Museum of Church History 15 and Art. never faileth.” single sister in the Church. I desired 2. See Luke 10:42. As seemed the case with Martha, that my increased love would help you 3. Luke 10:38–39; emphasis added. one of the first things to go when I feel the love of the Lord in your life. I 4. John 11:5. 5. Luke 10:40. become cumbered about and trou- prayed to my Heavenly Father “with all 6. Luke 10:39. bled is my charitable attitude. Is this the energy of [my] heart, [to be] filled 7. Luke 10:40. 8. Luke 10:41–42. true for you? with this love, which he hath bestowed 9. 2 Nephi 2:28. I’ve learned that the best way to upon all who are true followers of his 10. Moroni 7:47. reclaim charity is to uncumber myself Son, Jesus Christ.”17 11. Joshua 22:5; emphasis added. 12. Ether 12:33–34; emphasis added. and simply love and serve the Lord. Last December in Sunday School, 13. Moroni 7:47. How do we do that? We start each day our teacher suggested that at tithing 14. “The Tongue Can Be a Sharp Sword,” kneeling in prayer to our Father in settlement time we give the Lord a Ensign, May 1992, 19. 15. Moroni 7:46. Heaven, we hear His words through private accounting of our study and 16. 1 John 4:19. daily scripture study, and we follow the application of a gospel principle. I had 17. Moroni 7:48; emphasis added.

106 Donna S. Packer, wife of President Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of Testimonies: the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; mother; grandmother; and great- grandmother from Utah: Choosing a witness of my own—in my daily life “Choose That with all the trials, I cannot live on bor- rowed light. Nor can I lean forever on the spiritual knowledge of others. I Good Part” must know for myself. And it is only the power of the Holy Ghost that gives us a witness, that seals it in our The following brief testimonies were expressed in the two souls, that Jesus is the living Christ. interludes of the musical selection “Choose That Good Part.” This I know. ■

Janet Edwards, Utah Salt Lake City Temple Square missionary from New York: I was living in New York City, swept away by the worldliness of the theater. With the tragic events of 9/11, I painfully realized my life was not one of eternal joy. I was serving the wrong master; I had forgotten that Jesus Christ must come first. On that day I made the greatest decision of my life— I chose the Lord—His peace and happiness. Galina Pershina, Utah Salt Lake City Temple Square missionary from Russia: When I joined the Church my family asked me not to try to Janet Edwards Florence Chukwurah convert them. While I have been on my mission, my mother fell seriously ill. My Relief Society sisters in Russia wrapped charitable arms around her. When she is with them she feels the same spirit I feel; she feels closer to me; she feels the love of Christ. Florence Chukwurah, Relief Society general board member from Nigeria: I chose early in life to break from poverty and to seek God diligently. I decided to be obedient to my parents and elders and to be serious with my schoolwork. I made up my mind to work hard with my hands. The Lord heard my prayers and crowned my efforts with blessings for me and my family. Galina Pershina Donna S. Packer

NOVEMBER 2003 107 They were covenant women like us. They had determined to give the In Covenant Savior all their hearts. So, too, when the Relief Society was organized, it grew out of our divine calling and our desire to serve, to love, and to care with Him for each other. Just as the ordinances and direction of the priesthood are KATHLEEN H. HUGHES necessary in the Lord’s work, so is the First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency service that we do. To accomplish this important work, Our sisterhood includes all ages and backgrounds; we choose to be covenant women: we are connected by the covenants we have made. women who have made sacred promises to the Lord. For those of us who have received our temple blessings, we have promised that we will con- secrate our time and talents to the said the document was the best he building up of the Lord’s kingdom. had ever seen, but he envisioned Through this covenant we can serve “something better.” He would “organ- the Church in many roles. ize the women under the priesthood Twenty years ago I was called to be after the pattern of the priesthood.”2 Young Women president in my ward. When the Prophet Joseph “turned the My hair was brown, and my body was key”3 and established the “Female . . . well, let’s just say, a little more lim- Relief Society of Nauvoo,” he said that ber. Many years later I was called the Church itself had not been fully again to the same position, this time organized until that moment.4 Sisters, in a new ward. I was being recycled, it’s important that we understand that and I found that exciting. It was my statement. Relief Society was estab- chance to renew my covenant to God lished by God, through a prophet, by that I would serve in whatever ca- the power of priesthood authority; its pacity He needed me. Now, however, existence is a necessary part of the my hair was naturally silver (or mostly organization of the Church. Men and so), and touching my toes had women stand together in priesthood become a real strain. But I didn’t feel y dear sisters, the year has and Relief Society as we strive to bring too old to be blessed again by the passed quickly, and it’s won- families to Christ. As women, we lives of remarkable young women Mderful to meet again as should never think that our role in the who were faithful, bright, and full of women of the Relief Society of The Church is a lesser role than that fun. I would like to think that by then Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day played by men. Just as we as righteous I had a little more wisdom to give Saints. Whatever our circumstance, women honor the priesthood, we them and a deeper testimony of the we are blessed as women. We have need to hold sacred our calling as gospel, but once again I learned as made covenants with Heavenly Father women as well. much from them as they did from me. to do His work—and we are doing As I have studied this painting of Our sisterhood includes all ages and that work! Like Mary and Martha, we Martha and Mary with the Savior, I backgrounds; we are connected by have placed ourselves at the Master’s have come to think of these women the covenants we have made. feet and have “chosen that good as my predecessors. I have wondered And remember, we don’t outgrow part.”1 We have chosen Christ, and we if they were also women “full of good those covenants. We can serve each have chosen Relief Society. works and almsdeeds.”5 It is pleasant other in every era of our lives. I heard Yet I wonder whether we women to think that they, and other faithful recently of a young mother whose have a full vision of what Relief Society women who were Christ’s disciples, husband, a member of a bishopric, is. When Joseph Smith read the first might have met together to learn was sitting on the stand while she bylaws written by Eliza R. Snow, he their part in building the kingdom. struggled with her restless children. A

108 much older woman took the toddler meetings like that. I will always family, and personal enrichment meet- on her lap and helped to quiet her. remember the Sunday morning when ings. There are also many in our circle Such simple acts are part of building testimonies were being borne and a who are growing older—like me! You God’s kingdom. It’s what we do. It’s single sister shared with us the loneli- sisters my age or older, please let your- who we are as sisters of Relief Society. ness of her life. She had experienced selves be “recycled.” The Lord needs Whether we are serving as president betrayal, a divorce, and subsequent your service, and we need you. of the Relief Society or as a teacher in financial hardships as she tried to I am aware of a young sister who Primary or as the Young Women camp work and raise her children on a small is struggling to make the transition director, we are fulfilling our sacred income. Now she knew the pain of from Young Women into Relief responsibility as Relief Society sisters. loneliness as her grown children were Society. She is faithful and strong, When we call to check on an elderly gone from her home. The moment yet right now she feels alone. How neighbor or provide encouragement was sweet, the Spirit strong, and I saw can this be? If we are truly sisters, we and help to a young mother or sisters rallying around her, doing what should know each other’s needs. include another family in our prayers, we do best: love. The Relief Society This period of young adulthood we are keeping our covenants. room was a holy place that day. It was should not be a transition but a nat- Recently our presidency was meet- what every Relief Society room ural step in an extended sisterhood. ing with a Church leader. He com- should be for each sister. There are many of these young mented that he wished Relief Society It’s so important that we include women in our wards. Please find and priesthood meetings would be every sister. Let’s not forget the them, love them, and bring them places where we would be able to say women who are serving in Primary or into the circle of sisterhood. But to to one another, “Sisters, or brothers, Young Women. They need the care of you young sisters I would say, don’t I’m struggling right now. Will you help faithful visiting teachers, and they need assume you know what Relief me?” I have been in Relief Society well-planned and accessible home, Society is like until you have joined

NOVEMBER 2003 109 with the sisters and done your part to get to know them. Moving from Young Women to Relief Society is Choose Ye not a change from one class to another; it is your opportunity to take on a greater role in serving the Lord and doing His work. Therefore Christ Sisters, we’re not a social club, though deep friendships form from our sisterhood. We are not, as I heard a the Lord young woman say, “the old women who meet on Sunday.” We have power ANNE C. PINGREE when we use it: power given to us Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency through God to accomplish His purposes. We are the world’s largest women’s organization. As we reach When a woman chooses to have Christ at the center into our communities with the knowl- of her own heart, . . . she brings the Lord into the core edge and inspiration the Lord has of her home and family. granted us, we can help lead a world that needs our guidance. It’s what the Prophet Joseph expected; it’s what President Hinckley expects of us today. The scope of our work can seem during our sojourn on earth. daunting, but as my recently baptized As covenant women living in many grandson can quickly tell you, a nations, it is essential to have Christ at covenant is a two-way promise. We all the core of our lives. In these “per- know the scriptural teaching that ilous times,”2 oh, how we need Him! where “much is given much is He is the source of strength and required.”6 Remember, though, that safety. He is light. He is life. His peace where much is required, much is also “passeth all understanding.”3 As our given. When we covenant with God personal Savior and Redeemer, He and keep those covenants, all things invites us, one by one, with out- are made possible. He gives us what stretched arms to “come unto him”4 we need to do His work. in the most personal ways. Sisters, Tonight, my dear sisters, I invite when a woman accepts the Savior’s you to recommit yourselves as invitation, she is strengthened individ- covenant women to Christ and to His ually, and others are blessed through organization for us, His daughters. her righteous influence. Choose that good part. Choose to fol- I believe when a woman chooses low Christ. Choose Relief Society. In isters, it is a glorious doctrine to to have Christ at the center of her the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ me that we can choose to give own heart, at the nucleus of her per- SChrist all our heart—that we sonal world, she brings the Lord into NOTES can choose to put our Savior and the core of her home and family, be it 1. See Luke 10:42. Redeemer at the center of our heart. a family of one or a family of many. 2. As quoted in Sarah M. Kimball, “Auto- biography,” Woman’s Exponent, 1 Sept. In each of us, the restored gospel Wherever she lives and whatever her 1883, 51. of Jesus Christ can be “written not circumstances, as the heart of the 3. George Albert Smith, “Address to the with ink, but with the Spirit of the home and the family, what is in each Members of the Relief Society,” Relief Society Magazine, Dec. 1945, 717. living God; not in tables of stone, woman’s heart is reflected in the envi- 4. See “Story of the Organization of the but in fleshy tables of the heart.”1 ronment and spirit of her home. Relief Society,” Relief Society Magazine, We chose to follow Christ in our While we were on an assignment in Mar. 1919, 129. 5. Acts 9:36. first estate. What joyful news it is Japan, a Church leader invited us to 6. D&C 82:3. that we can choose Him each day visit his home. We were honored to

110 have this opportunity but wondered what his wife would think of her husband’s last-minute invitation to bring visitors from Salt Lake City home. En route, the man telephoned his wife, giving her what seemed to me about 15 minutes to prepare for this unexpected company. From the moment we stepped inside the front door, slipped off our shoes, and were graciously greeted by a young, soft-spoken Relief Society sister, I sensed a spirit of order, peace, and love. Little children scurried upstairs carrying their playthings. In this family of eight, with seven still living at home, it was clear what the family valued. Evidences of the Lord were all around—pictures of the Savior on the wall, a family photograph and picture of the temple in a prominent place, copies of well-used scriptures and Church videos neatly stacked on a nearby shelf. “The fruit of the Spirit, . . . love, joy, peace, . . . gentleness, goodness, faith,”5 seemed to reside in that home. I imagined the small room filled with children of all ages as parents sat around the low table to “talk of Christ, [to] rejoice in Christ, [to] preach of Christ, [to] prophesy of Christ, . . . that [their] children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.”6 I sensed the One mother did her best to teach hard to ground our beloved children, answer the children in this home the steps of repentance in her home. grandchildren, nieces, and nephews would give to the question posed by Then came the day she helped her in the gospel. “Trying to be like Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: “Do [our] chil- five-year-old son internalize the prin- Jesus”8 does take practice, which dren know that we love God with all ciples when she accompanied him to then becomes habit. Choosing to our heart and that we long to see the the store to account for a candy bar make Christ the center of our hearts face—and fall at the feet—of His Only he had stolen. That experience is one aids us in so many ways as we strive Begotten Son?”7 I believe the response the boy will never forget. He learned to teach others to put the Lord into to that question in this Japanese home firsthand about taking responsibility their hearts. Sometimes we feel we would be a resounding yes! for his actions. With fear in his heart, are not making much progress, but When a woman chooses to have he returned the candy bar, offered an on those discouraging days, I Christ at the center of her heart, she’s apology to the store manager, and remember the comforting words of choosing not only to practice promised never to steal again. I am the Savior: “Be not weary in well- Christlike behavior each day but also pleased to report that he has kept doing, for ye are laying the founda- to teach her family to do the same. that promise. I know—because I was tion of a great work.”9 And as you know, dear sisters, it’s in the mother, and my son was the five- As we choose that good part and that daily business of practicing year-old. put the Savior in the center of our Christlike behavior that we have some Experiences like that come into lives by praying daily for His guidance of our greatest challenges. every family, even when we work and help, God gives us “power and

NOVEMBER 2003 111 wisdom.”10 We are blessed with spiri- inspired words and thoughts came to days and on those days when I have tual insights that can fortify our fami- Lori’s mother as she bore her testi- felt unequal to the challenges before lies. When Doug, the father of three mony and reminded her daughter of me, I have turned to the Lord for small children, unexpectedly lost his things she already knew: “Lori, you help. I testify that He is always job, unemployment benefits plus know better. You know that Heavenly there, His merciful, loving arms out- their small savings and some help Father loves you and is aware of your stretched to me and to you. With all from the extended family were the needs. But sometimes you have to my heart I declare that Jesus Christ is means of his family’s support. His wait. Perhaps this is your refiner’s fire. my strength. He is my hope. He is my wife, Lori, tried to be positive as they I don’t know. But what I do know is Savior and Redeemer. With you I say, both took odd jobs to help cover this: You need to go into your bed- “As for me and my house, we will their expenses. They continued doing room right now and kneel and pray, serve the Lord.”11 In the name of all the right things—praying, reading asking the Lord to comfort you and Jesus Christ, amen. ■ the scriptures, attending the temple, give you peace. Doug will find a job, and paying tithing. Yet in spite of hun- but it may take a while longer. Remem- NOTES dreds of résumés and many inquiries, ber all who love you and who are pray- 1. 2 Corinthians 3:3. 2. Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Times in Which job interviews were few, and no job ing for you and who are helping you. We Live,” Liahona, Jan. 2002, 83; Ensign, offer was forthcoming. You are very blessed.” Nov. 2001, 72. One day after almost six months What Lori realized was that when 3. Philippians 4:7. 4. Omni 1:26. of job searching, Lori called her she knelt down and prayed—because 5. Galatians 5:22. mother. Tearfully and with some she was focused on the Lord—she 6. 2 Nephi 25:26. 7. “A Prayer for the Children,” Liahona and anger in her voice, she said: “I don’t redirected her thoughts. She brought Ensign, May 2003, 87. think Heavenly Father is listening to the Savior’s love into her own life and 8. “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus,” Children’s us. I don’t think I can pray anymore. into her home. Songbook, 78. 9. D&C 64:33. It doesn’t do any good.” Dear sisters, I have felt the love of 10. Alma 31:35. During that telephone conversation, the Lord often in my life. On the good 11. Joshua 24:15; emphasis added.

112 computers, they attend the activities of their children, they cook and sew, To the Women they teach classes, and they speak in church. I see their husbands, and I feel like saying to them: “Wake up. Carry your of the Church share of the load. Do you really appreciate your wife? Do you know PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY how much she does? Do you ever compliment her? Do you ever say Thank you for being the kind of people you are and doing thanks to her?” the things you do. May the blessings of heaven rest upon you. Well, you dear women, I say thanks to you. Thank you for being the kind of people you are and doing the things you do. May the blessings of heaven rest upon you. May your responsibility it is to keep food in the prayers be answered and your hopes pantry, to keep clothing neat and pre- and dreams become realities. sentable, to buy all that is needed to You serve so well in the Church. keep a home running. You think it is so demanding. It is. You are nurses. With every illness But with every responsibility fulfilled, that comes along, you are the first to there comes a great reward. be told about it and the first to Many of you think you are failures. respond with help. In cases of serious You feel you cannot do well, that with sickness, you are at the bedside day all of your effort it is not sufficient. and night, comforting, encouraging, We all feel that way. I feel that way ministering, praying. as I speak to you tonight. I long for, I You are the family chauffeur. You pray for the power and the capacity to are driving your children about on lift you, to inspire you, to thank you, paper routes, taking them to athletic to praise you, and to bring a measure events, driving them on ward out- of gladness into your hearts. ings, hauling here, there, and every- We all worry about our perform- where as they pursue their busy lives. ance. We all wish we could do better. omeone has said: “Be kind to And so I might go on. My children But unfortunately we do not realize, the women. They constitute are now all grown. Some are in their we do not often see the results that Shalf the population and are 60s. But when they call and I answer come of what we do. mothers to the other half.” the phone, they say, “How are you?” I remember going to a stake con- My dear sisters, you marvelous And before I can answer, they ask, “Is ference in the East many years ago. women who have chosen the better Mother there?” On the plane coming home, I felt that part, I stand in great admiration for She has been their strength all of I had been a total failure. I felt I had all that you do. I see your hands in their lives. Since they were babies not touched anyone for good. I was everything. they have looked to her, and she has miserable with a sense of inadequacy. Many of you are mothers, and that always responded with affection, Then, some years later, I was at is enough to occupy one’s full time. guidance, teaching, blessing their another conference in California. At You are companions—the very lives in every way. the conclusion of the meeting a man best friends your husbands have or Now we have granddaughters who came up to me and said, “You were at ever will have. are mothers. They visit us, and I mar- a conference a few years ago in such- You are housekeepers. That doesn’t vel at their patience, at their capacity and-such a place.” sound like much, does it? But what a to calm their children, to stop them “Yes,” I said, “I was there, and I job it is to keep a house clean and tidy. from crying, and it seems to me remember the occasion.” You are shoppers. Until I got older to do a thousand other things. The man said: “You touched my I never dreamed of what a demanding They drive cars, they run heart. I came to that meeting out of

NOVEMBER 2003 113 capable, attractive, wonderful women whom romance has passed by. I do not understand it, but I know that in the plan of the Almighty, the eternal plan which we call God’s plan of happiness, there will be opportunity and reward for all who seek them. To you young women with small children, yours is a tremendous challenge. So often there is not enough money. You must scrimp and save. You must be wise and careful in your expenditures. You must be strong and bold and brave and march forward with gladness in your eye and love in your heart. How blessed you are, my dear young mothers. You have children who will be yours forever. I hope that you have been sealed in the house of the Lord and that your fam- curiosity. I really had no interest. I was Now, we have a very diverse group ily will be an everlasting family in the on the verge of leaving the Church. to whom I am speaking. This includes kingdom of our Father. But when it was announced that one young women who are still in school May you be given strength to carry of the Twelve Apostles would be or who are working. You are single. your heavy load, to meet every obliga- there, I decided to go. You are hoping to catch that perfect tion, to walk side by side with a good “You said something that started man. I have yet to see one who is per- and faithful and caring man, and me to think. It touched me and stayed fect. Aim high, but do not aim so high together with him rear and nurture with me and stirred me. I decided to that you totally miss the target. What and bring up your children in righ- alter my course. I turned my life really matters is that he will love you, teousness and truth. Nothing else you around. I am now living here in that he will respect you, that he will will ever own, no worldly thing you California. I have a good job, for which honor you, that he will be absolutely will ever acquire will be worth so much I am grateful. I hope I am a good hus- true to you, that he will give you free- as the love of your children. God bless band and father. And I am now serving dom of expression and let you fly in you, my dear, dear young mothers. as a counselor in the bishopric of my the development of your own talents. Then we have you older women ward. I am happier than I have ever He is not going to be perfect, but if he who are neither young nor old. You been at any time in my life.” is kind and thoughtful, if he knows are in the most wonderful season of I thanked him, and when I left him how to work and earn a living, if he is your lives. Your children are in their I said to myself, shaking my head: honest and full of faith, the chances teens. Possibly one or two are mar- “You never know. You never know are that you will not go wrong, that ried. Some are on missions, and you whether you do any good. You never you will be immensely happy. are sacrificing to keep them in the know how much good you do.” Some of you, unfortunately, will field. You are hoping and praying for Now, my dear sisters, that is the way never marry in this life. That turns out their success and happiness. To you with you. You are doing the best you to be the case sometimes. If that hap- dear women I offer some special can, and that best results in good to pens, do not spend your life grieving counsel. yourself and to others. Do not nag over it. The world still needs your tal- Count your blessings; name them yourself with a sense of failure. Get on ents. It needs your contribution. The one by one. You don’t need a great your knees and ask for the blessings of Church needs your faith. It needs big mansion of a house with an all- the Lord; then stand on your feet and your strong, helping hand. Life is consuming mortgage that goes on do what you are asked to do. Then never a failure until we call it such. forever. You do need a comfortable leave the matter in the hands of the There are so many who need your and pleasant home where love abides. Lord. You will discover that you have helping hands, your loving smile, your Someone has said that there is no accomplished something beyond price. tender thoughtfulness. I see so many more beautiful picture than that of a

114 good woman cooking a meal for those she loves. Weigh carefully that which you do. You do not need some of the extravagances that working outside the home might bring. Weigh carefully the importance of your being in the home when your children come from school. Mothers, take good care of your daughters. Be close to them. Listen to them. Talk with them. Lead them from doing foolish things. Guide them into doing the right thing. See that they dress in a comely and modest fashion. Safeguard them from the terrible evils that are all about them. Nurture your sons with love and counsel. Teach them the importance of personal cleanliness, of neatness in their dress. Sloppy ways lead to sloppy lives. Instill in them a sense of a smile on your face whenever you wherever you may live, may the win- discipline. Keep them worthy of ser- are before your children or others. dows of heaven be opened and bless- vice to the Church as missionaries. Now to you dear grandmothers, ings come down upon you. May you Give them things to do so that they you older widows, and older lonely live with love one for another. May may learn to work. Teach them to be women. How beautiful you are. I look you reach down to lift up those frugal. Labor and frugality lead to upon my dear wife, soon to be 92 whose burdens are heavy. May you prosperity. Teach them that nothing years of age. Her hair is white; her bring light and beauty to the world really good happens after 11 o’clock frame is stooped. and particularly into your homes and at night. And do not spoil them. If I take one of her hands in mine and into the lives of your children. they go on missions, they may be look at it. Once it was so beautiful, the You know as I do that God our compelled to live in circumstances flesh firm and clear. Now it is wrinkled Eternal Father lives. He loves you. You that you would not wish for them. Do and a little bony and not very strong. know as I do that Jesus is the Christ, not worry about them. Give them But it speaks of love and constancy His immortal Son, our Redeemer. You encouragement. and faith, of hard work through the know that the gospel is true and that Stir within your children the desire years. Her memory is not what it once heaven is near if we will cultivate it in for education. This is the latchkey to was. She can remember things that our lives. success in life. And at the same time, happened half a century ago but may You are the Relief Society of The teach them that as President David O. not remember what happened half an Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day McKay was wont to remind us, “No hour ago. I am like that, too. Saints. There is no other organization other success can compensate for fail- But I am so grateful for her. For 66 to equal it. Walk with pride. Hold your ure in the home.”1 years we have walked together, hand heads up. Work with diligence. Do Now I speak to you single mothers in hand, with love and encourage- whatever the Church asks you to do. whose burdens are so heavy because ment, with appreciation and respect. Pray with faith. You may never know you have been abandoned or have It cannot be very long before one of how much good you accomplish. been widowed. Yours is a terrible us will step through the veil. I hope Someone’s life will be blessed by your load. Bear it well. Seek the blessings the other will follow soon. I just effort. May you know the comforting, of the Lord. Be grateful for any assis- would not know how to get along rewarding embrace of the Holy Spirit, tance that may come out of the quo- without her, even on the other side, I pray in the sacred name of Jesus rums of the priesthood to help you in and I would hope that she would not Christ, amen. ■ your home or with other matters. know how to get along without me. NOTE 1. Quoted from J. E. McCulloch, Home: The Pray silently in your closet, and let the My dear friends of the Relief Savior of Civilization (1924), 42; in tears flow if they must come. But put Society, whatever your circumstances, Conference Report, Apr. 1935, 116.

NOVEMBER 2003 115 They Spoke to Us Ideas for Children and Their Families

President James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency: “Grandfather took a trip in the winter to Idaho, where he met an acquaintance who had fallen on hard times. It was cold, and Grandfather’s friend had no coat. Grandfather took off his coat and gave it to him. “. . . Begin to unlock the knowledge of who you really are by learning more about your forebears.” o you remember what hap- President Thomas S. Review some of the stories in the pened at general conference? Monson, First Counselor talk beginning on page 53. Ask your DWhat did you learn? Here are in the First Presidency: parents to tell a favorite story about some ideas to help you apply Church “As our youngest son, one of their ancestors. Write down leaders’ counsel in your own life. Clark, was approaching the story. his 12th birthday, he President Gordon B. and I were leaving the Church President Boyd K. Hinckley: “To our young Administration Building when Packer, Acting people, the glorious President Harold B. Lee approached President of the youth of this genera- and greeted us. I mentioned that Quorum of the Twelve tion, I say, be true. Hold Clark would soon be 12, whereupon Apostles: “Remember to the faith. Stand firmly President Lee turned to him and the First Vision when for what you know to be right. . . . asked, ‘What happens to you when young Joseph knelt in the grove. “. . . Live by your standards. Pray you turn 12?’ Immediately thick darkness gath- for the guidance and protection of “. . . Clark, without hesitation, said ered around him. He was seized by the Lord. He will never leave you to President Lee, ‘I will be ordained a the power of the enemy, an actual alone. He will comfort you. He will deacon!’ being from the unseen world. He sustain you.” “The answer was the one President did what every one of you can do. Discuss this counsel from the talk Lee had sought. He then counseled He called upon God, and the evil beginning on page our son, ‘Remember, it is a great power left him. 82. Then review blessing to hold the priesthood.’ ” “There is great power in prayer. My Gospel Turn to the talk begin- As a son or a daughter of God, Standards, found ning on page 56. Read you can, as Joseph did, pray to on the back of about the service President God in the name of Jesus Christ your Faith in God Monson gave to a ward for strength.” booklet. Discuss member when he was a Discuss this story from the talk with your parents deacon. Discuss ways you beginning on page 24. Then tell the BY GARY L. KAPP GARY BY the ways you are can give service to a rest of Joseph Smith’s experience living your neighbor or a ward or in the Sacred Grove. See Joseph standards. branch member. Smith—History 1:15–20. THE FIRST VISION, 116 LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 117 Elder Russell M. Nelson Find out what the boy did next Following the prophets will help pro- of the Quorum of the by reading this story from the talk tect us against the storms of life and Twelve Apostles: “Think beginning on page 44. Then think lead us to Christ.” of the faith of a boy, of a time when your prayers were See the talk beginning on page 8. about eight years of answered. If you would like to, Make a list of ways you will follow age, who was facing share your experience with your the counsel President Hinckley gave an emergency operation for acute family. in conference. appendicitis. As he lay on the operating table, he looked up at the surgeon Elder Sheldon F. Child Sydney S. Reynolds, and said, ‘Doctor, before you begin to of the Seventy: “If God First Counselor in operate, will you pray for me?’ loves us enough to the Primary General “The surgeon looked at the boy in send us prophets, then Presidency: “The Savior amazement and said, ‘Why, I can’t we need to love Him gave His life for each pray for you.’ ” enough to follow them. one of us. He knows our joys and our sorrows. He knows my name and your name.” STORIES TO READ AND SHARE See the talk beginning on page 76. How do you know that Jesus Are you helping with family home evening or preparing a talk for Primary? Read the Christ knows your name, your joys, conference talks beginning on the pages listed below. You’ll find stories you could tell and your sorrows? Discuss how you ● and insights you could share. can show your love for Him.

Nigerian Saints get temple recommends, 13 Elder Zwick blesses sick baby, 34 Parents kiss children’s hands, 34 Blind man runs marathon, 34

PAINTING BY GARY L. KAPP GARY BY PAINTING Boy doesn’t want priesthood Orphan girl blessing, 50 crosses the Angry young man leaves plains, 53 home, 56 President Monson visits elderly couple, 56 President Monson visits Sunday School teacher, 67 In Japan, Sister Clegg bears testimony in Family gives up Portuguese, 76 engagement ring Homeless man changes to pay tithing, 76 his life, 78 Man remembers Elder Haight’s example, 95

118 INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCES

“Work and Personal through Tribulation Brings Teachings for Our Time, Responsibility,” chapter 27 in Peace and Joy,” Liahona and Gospel Principles, 179–84. Ensign, May 2003, 15–18. 2004 5. Blessings through the “Faith in Jesus Christ,” chap- Priesthood ter 18, and “Obedience,” chap- D&C 13; 27:12; 107:39; ter 35 in Gospel Principles, 110:11–16; 128:20; Joseph 117–21 and 223–28. elchizedek Priesthood “The Family Can Be Smith–-History 1:68–74. 7. Teaching the Children Mand Relief Society meet- Eternal,” chapter 36 in Gospel Boyd K. Packer, “The Stake Jeremiah 31:15–16; Luke ings on fourth Sundays are to Principles, 231–35. Patriarch,” Liahona and 15:11–32; John 1:43; 3 Nephi be devoted to “Teachings for 2. Giving Thanks Ensign, Nov. 2002, 42–45. 17:11–24; D&C 68:25, 28. Our Time.” Each year the First Luke 17:11–19; Mosiah L. Tom Perry, “Called of Thomas S. Monson, Presidency determines 10 sub- 26:38–39; Alma 37:37; D&C God,” Liahona and Ensign, “Models to Follow,” Liahona jects with designated resource 78:19; 98:1–3. Nov. 2002, 7–10. and Ensign, Nov. 2002, 60–67. materials to be used in these David B. Haight, “Were David B. Haight, “Growing James E. Faust, “Dear meetings. Following are the There Not Ten Cleansed?” into the Priesthood,” Liahona Are the Sheep That Have subjects and designated re- Liahona and Ensign, Nov. and Ensign, May 2003, 43–45. Wandered,” Liahona and sources for 2004. Two addi- 2002, 24–26. “The Priesthood” and Ensign, May 2003, 61–68. tional subjects are to be Dallin H. Oaks, “Give “Priesthood Organization,” Jeffrey R. Holland, “A Prayer selected by stake or district Thanks in All Things,” Liahona chapters 13 and 14 in Gospel for the Children,” Liahona presidencies. and Ensign, May 2003, 95–98. Principles, 81–93. and Ensign, May 2003, 85–87. Discussions in fourth- “Gratitude,” in For the 6. Exercising Faith during “Family Responsibilities,” Sunday meetings should be Strength of Youth, 6–7. Times of Uncertainty chapter 37 in Gospel based on one or perhaps two “Developing Gratitude,” Hebrews 11; James 1:3–6; Principles, 236–40. of the designated resources lesson 35 in The Latter-day Helaman 12:1; Ether 12:6; 8. Success in Missionary that best address the needs Saint Woman, Part B, 303–11. D&C 6:20; 59:21. Service and circumstances of quorum 3. Laboring in the Lord’s Gordon B. Hinckley, “War John 21:15–17; 1 John or class members; teachers Vineyard and Peace,” Liahona and 4:18–19; Mosiah 28:3; D&C need not use all of the Matthew 16:24–26; John Ensign, May 2003, 78–81. 4:5; 88:81. resources. Leaders and instruc- 12:26; 1 Nephi 3:7; Mosiah Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Shall Dallin H. Oaks, “I’ll Go tors should encourage discus- 2:17; 4:27; D&C 123:17. He Find Faith on the Earth?” Where You Want Me to Go,” sions, rather than lectures or Thomas S. Monson, “Stand Liahona and Ensign, Nov. Liahona and Ensign, Nov. presentations. They should in Your Appointed Place,” 2002, 82–85. 2002, 67–70. consider ways to stimulate Liahona and Ensign, May Richard G. Scott, “The M. Russell Ballard, “The quorum and class members to 2003, 54–57. Sustaining Power of Faith in Essential Role of Member apply the gospel principles dis- Jeffrey R. Holland, “Called Times of Uncertainty and Missionary Work,” Liahona cussed. Suggestions on prepar- to Serve,” Liahona and Testing,” Liahona and Ensign, and Ensign, May 2003, 37–40. ing and conducting quorum or Ensign, Nov. 2002, 36–38. May 2003, 75–78. M. Russell Ballard, “The class discussions are found in Henry B. Eyring, “Rise to Robert D. Hales, “Faith Greatest Generation of Teaching, No Greater Call and Your Call,” Liahona and the Teaching Guidebook. Ensign, Nov. 2002, 75–78. 1. The Family Is Central to “Sacrifice,” chapter 26, and the Creator’s Plan “Service,” chapter 28 in Gospel Exodus 20:12; Malachi 4:6; Principles, 171–77 and 185–91. Mosiah 27:14; D&C 93:36–40; 4. Spiritual and Temporal Moses 5:4–5, 9–12. Self-Reliance Gordon B. Hinckley, “Family Malachi 3:8–10; Matthew Home Evening,” Liahona and 6:5–13; Alma 37:37; D&C Ensign, Mar. 2003, 2–5. 88:119. James E. Faust, “Enriching Gordon B. Hinckley, Our Lives through Family “To Men of the Priesthood,” Home Evening,” Liahona and Liahona and Ensign, Nov. Ensign, June 2003, 2–6. 2002, 56–59. Boyd K. Packer, “The Russell M. Nelson, “Sweet Golden Years,” Liahona and Power of Prayer,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2003, 82–84. Ensign, May 2003, 7–9. L. Tom Perry, “The Robert D. Hales, “Tithing: Importance of the Family,” A Test of Faith with Eternal Liahona and Ensign, May Blessings,” Liahona and 2003, 40–43. Ensign, Nov. 2002, 26–29.

LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 119 Missionaries,” Liahona and about My Family,” Liahona, Ensign, Nov. 2002, 46–49. Resource Guide for Mar. 2003, 30–31. Henry B. Eyring, “A Child “Our Greatest Happiness,” and a Disciple,” Liahona and Liahona, June 2003, 26–29. Ensign, May 2003, 29–32. Aaronic Priesthood Lesson 8: Spirituality “Missionary Work,” chapter Douglas L. Callister, 33 in Gospel Principles, Manual 2 “Seeking the Spirit of God,” 211–17. Liahona, Jan. 2001, 38–39. 9. The Sacrament and Sharon G. Larsen, Sacrament Meeting “Standing in Holy Places,” It is recommended that Liahona, July 2002, 103–5. this subject be taught on a or use in 2004, lessons Lesson 3: Faith in Jesus “The Mortal Conflict,” fourth Sunday during the last F 1–25. Future resource Christ Liahona, Sept. 2001, three months of the year. guides will be printed in the “The Living Christ–-The 30–31. Matthew 26:26–29; 3 Nephi May and November issues of Testimony of the Apostles,” Lesson 9: Repentance 18:1–12; Moroni 4, 5; D&C the Liahona. The Liahona Liahona, Apr. 2000, 2–3. and the Atonement of 59:9–14. can be found online in many Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Shall Jesus Christ Gordon B. Hinckley, languages at www.lds.org. He Find Faith on the Earth?” Richard G. Scott, “To Men of the Priesthood,” The following resources Liahona, Nov. 2002, 82–85. “To Be Free of Heavy Liahona and Ensign, Nov. may be used to supplement, “Faith in Jesus Christ,” Burdens,” Liahona, 2002, 56–59. but not replace, lessons 1–25. Liahona, Mar. 2002, 42–43. Nov. 2002, 86–88. Russell M. Nelson, Additional teaching sugges- Lesson 4: Companionship Jay E. Jensen, “Do You “Worshiping at Sacrament tions are found on the Using of the Holy Ghost Know How to Repent?” Meeting,” Liahona and the Liahona page of each James E. Faust, Liahona, Apr. 2002, 14–17. Ensign, Aug. 2004. nonconference issue. “Communion with the Spencer V. Jones, Dallin H. Oaks, “The Gospel Please teach the lessons Holy Spirit,” Liahona, “Overcoming the Stench in Our Lives,” Liahona, July in the order they are printed. Mar. 2002, 2–7. of Sin,” Liahona, May 2002, 36–39; Ensign, May 2002, The manual does not include Kenneth Johnson, 2003, 88–89. 33–35. a specific Easter lesson. If you “Yielding to the Enticings “How Do I Know If I Have Dallin H. Oaks in “Special want to teach a special Easter of the Holy Spirit,” Liahona, Been Forgiven?” Liahona, Witnesses of Christ,” Liahona, lesson, consider using confer- Nov. 2002, 89–91. Nov. 1999, 26–28. Apr. 2001, 14; Ensign, Apr. ence addresses, Church maga- Margaret D. Nadauld, Lesson 10: Studying the 2001, 13. zine articles, and hymns that “A Comforter, a Guide, a Scriptures “The Sacrament,” chapter focus on the life and mission Testifier,” Liahona, July 2001, Boyd K. Packer, “The 23 in Gospel Principles, of the Savior. 109–11. Book of Mormon: Another 151–56. Lesson 1: Who Am I? Lesson 5: Agency Testament of Jesus Christ,” 10. Being a Disciple Thomas S. Monson, Jess L. Christensen, “The Liahona, Jan. 2002, 71–74. of Christ “The Lighthouse of the Lord: Choice That Began Mortality,” Lani Ricks, “One Hundred Matthew 11:28–30; A Message to the Youth Liahona, Aug. 2002, 38–41. Questions,” Liahona, Galatians 6:8; Alma 38:8–9; of the Church,” Liahona, Sharon G. Larsen, Sept. 2001, 8–9. D&C 64:34; 101:36–38. May 2001, 2–7. “Agency–-A Blessing and a “Scripture Study Thomas S. Monson, “Peace, N. Eldon Tanner, “Today Burden,” Liahona, Jan. 2000, Suggestions,” Liahona, Be Still,” Liahona and Ensign, I Will . . . ,” Liahona, Mar. 12–14. Sept. 2001, 29. Nov. 2002, 53–56. 2003, 26–29. “Keep Yourself Free,” Lesson 11: Satan and His James E. Faust, “Strength- Dallin H. Oaks, “The Liahona, Feb. 2003, 33. Temptations ening the Inner Self,” Liahona Challenge to Become,” Lesson 6: Christlike Service Gordon B. Hinckley, and Ensign, Feb. 2003, 2–7. Liahona, Jan. 2001, 40–43. James E. Faust, “What’s in “Overpowering the Goliaths Neal A. Maxwell, “Care Lesson 2: Knowing Our It for Me?” Liahona, Nov. in Our Lives,” Liahona, for the Life of the Soul,” Father in Heaven 2002, 19–22. Feb. 2002, 2–6. Liahona and Ensign, May Gordon B. Hinckley, “You L. Tom Perry, “Learning to Boyd K. Packer, “Spiritual 2003, 68–70. Are a Child of God,” Liahona, Serve,” Liahona, May 2002, Crocodiles,” Liahona, Oct. Richard G. Scott, “To Be May 2003, 117–19. 10–19. 2002, 8–11. Free of Heavy Burdens,” James E. Faust, “That We “Make Yourself Useful,” David E. Sorensen, “You Liahona and Ensign, Nov. Might Know Thee, the Only Liahona, Mar. 2001, 24. Can’t Pet a Rattlesnake,” 2002, 86–88. True God, and Jesus Christ,” Lesson 7: The Eternal Liahona, July 2001, 48–50. “Repentance,” chapter 19, Liahona, Feb. 1999, 2–6. Importance of Families Richard C. Edgley, “Satan’s and “Developing Our Talents,” Sydney S. Reynolds, Russell M. Nelson, “Set in Bag of Snipes,” Liahona, chapter 34 in Gospel “I Can Pray to Heavenly Order Thy House,” Liahona, Jan. 2001, 52–53. Principles, 122–27 and Father Anytime, Anywhere,” Jan. 2002, 80–83. Lesson 12: Prayer 218–21. ■ Liahona, May 2003, 113–14. Scott Bean, “The Truth James E. Faust, “The

120 Lifeline of Prayer,” Liahona, July 2002, 62–69. Henry B. Eyring, “Prayer,” Liahona, Jan. 2002, 16–19. Joel B. Macariola, “Three Centavos,” Liahona, Jun. 2002, 20–21. Lesson 13: Fasting Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Law of the Fast,” Liahona, July 2001, 88–91. Thaiz Martins Leal, “Something I Had to Do,” Liahona, Feb. 2002, 32–33. Brigada Acosta de Pèrez, “Blessed for Fasting,” Liahona, Oct. 1999, 46–48. Lesson 14: Obedience to God Hugh B. Brown, “The Currant Bush,” Liahona, Mar. 2002, 22–24. Robert D. Hales, “Return with Honor,” Liahona, Nov. 2001, 10–15. H. Ross Workman, “Beware of Murmuring,” Liahona, to Receive My Patriarchal Than Words,” Liahona, Greatest Generation of Jan. 2002, 98–100. Blessing?” Liahona, Aug. Feb. 2002, 28–29. Missionaries,” Liahona, Lesson 15: Exaltation 2001, 22–24. Wayne B. Lynn, “Too Old Nov. 2002, 46–49. through Keeping Covenants Lesson 18: Duties of a to Pass the Sacrament?” Daryl H. Garn, “Pre- Thomas S. Monson, Teacher in the Aaronic Liahona, May 2001, 8–9. paring for Missionary “Invitation to Exaltation,” Priesthood Lesson 21: Preparing for the Service,” Liahona, May Tambuli, Sept. 1993, 2–7. Thomas S. Monson, Melchizedek Priesthood 2003, 46–48. Dennis B. Neuenschwander, “Priesthood Power,” Liahona, Robert D. Hales, “Fulfilling Lesson 24: The Blessings “Ordinances and Covenants,” Jan. 2000, 58–61. Our Duty to God,” Liahona, of Work Liahona, Nov. 2001, 16–23. Cecil O. Samuelson Jr., Jan. 2002, 43–46. Joseph B. Wirthlin, Bonnie D. Parkin, “With “Our Duty to God,” Liahona, Jeffrey R. Holland, “Lessons Learned in the Holiness of Heart,” Liahona, Jan. 2002, 47–49. “Sanctify Yourselves,” Journey of Life,” Liahona, Nov. 2002, 103–5. H. David Burton, “And Liahona, Jan. 2001, 46–49. May 2001, 34–43. Lesson 16: Tithes and That’s the Way It Is,” Liahona, Henry B. Eyring, “Watch W. Rolfe Kerr, “The Offerings May 2003, 48–50. with Me,” Liahona, July 2001, Unprofitable Servant,” Robert D. Hales, “Tithing: Lesson 19: A Broken Heart 44–47. Liahona, Oct. 2003, 26–29. A Test of Faith with Eternal and a Contrite Spirit Lesson 22: Patriarchal Keith B. McMullin, Blessings,” Liahona, Nov. Ezra Taft Benson, “A Mighty Leadership in the Home “Come to Zion! Come to 2002, 26–29. Change of Heart,” Tambuli, Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Zion!” Liahona, Nov. 2002, Earl C. Tingey, “The Law Mar. 1990, 2–7. Hands of the Fathers,” 94–96. of Tithing,” Liahona, July Spencer J. Condie, “A Liahona, July 1999, 16–19. Lesson 25: Personal Purity 2002, 10–12. Disposition to Do Good F. Melvin Hammond, “Dad, through Self-discipline Jennifer M. Severino, Continually,” Liahona, Are You Awake?” Liahona, James E. Faust, “The “Paying Tithing,” Liahona, June 2001, 14–21. Nov. 2002, 97–99. Enemy Within,” Liahona, Dec. 2002, 46. Michele Tolley, “Locked Rosemarie Deppe, “My Jan. 2001, 54–57. Lesson 17: Patriarchal Out,” Liahona, July 2003, Fathers,” Liahona, June 2003, Neal A. Maxwell, “Reasons Blessings 22–24. 22–24. to Stay Pure,” Liahona, Boyd K. Packer, “The Lesson 20: Administering Lesson 23: Practical Mar. 2003, 6–12. Stake Patriarch,” Liahona, the Sacrament Preparation for a Mission Jeffrey R. Holland, Nov. 2002, 42–45. Gordon B. Hinckley, James E. Faust, “What I “Personal Purity,” Liahona, Richard P. Lindsay, “Chart “Upon You My Fellow Want My Son to Know before Oct. 2000, 40–43. Your Course by It,” Tambuli, Servants,” Tambuli, May He Leaves on His Mission,” “Danger Ahead! Avoiding Aug. 1991, 18–21. 1989, 2–6. Ensign, May 1996, 40–42. Pornography’s Trap,” “How Can I Prepare Peter B. Gardner, “More M. Russell Ballard, “The Liahona, Oct. 2002, 12–17. ■

LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 121 Liahona, Sept. 2002, 10–13. Nov. 2002, 36–38. Resource Guide for Young “He Is within Reach,” Lesson 7: Living in Love and Liahona, Apr. 2003, 24. Harmony Women Manual 2 Lesson 2: Spiritual Gifts Susan W. Tanner, “Did I Tell Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The You . . . ?” Liahona, May 2003, Unspeakable Gift,” Liahona, 73–75. May 2003, 26–29. Anne C. Pingree, “Charity: Carol B. Thomas, One Family, One Home at a “Developing Our Talent for Time,” Liahona, Nov. 2002, or use in 2004, lessons a specific Easter lesson. If you Spirituality,” Liahona, July 108–10. F 1–25. Future resource want to teach a special Easter 2001, 106–8. Carol B. Thomas, guides will be printed in the lesson, consider using confer- Crawford Gates, “Creativity “Strengthen Home and May and November issues of ence addresses, Church maga- and the Latter-day Saint,” Family,” Liahona, July 2002, the Liahona. The Liahona zine articles, and hymns that Tambuli, May 1987, 45–49. 105–7. can be found online in many focus on the life and mission Lesson 3: Building the Lesson 8: Improving languages at www.lds.org. of the Savior. Kingdom of God Communication Skills The following resources Lesson 1: Drawing Closer to L. Tom Perry, “Building H. Ross Workman, “Beware may be used to supplement, Jesus Christ a Community of Saints,” of Murmuring,” Liahona, but not replace, lessons 1–25. “Special Witnesses of Liahona, July 2001, 41–44. Jan. 2002, 98–100. Additional teaching sugges- Christ,” Liahona, Apr. 2001, Richard J. Maynes, Gayle M. Clegg, “The tions are found on the Using 2–24. “Building Up the Church,” Language of Love,” Liahona, the Liahona page of each Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Liahona, Sept. 2003, 36–39. July 2002, 74–76. nonconference issue. Testimony of the Son of God,” Glenn L. Pace, “They’re Kristi McLane, “Becoming Please teach the lessons Liahona, Dec. 2002, 2–5. Not Really Happy,” Ensign, a True Friend,” Liahona, in the order they are printed. Jeffrey R. Holland, “He Nov. 1987, 39–41. Mar. 2003, 13. The manual does not include Loved Them unto the End,” Keith B. McMullin, “Come Lesson 9: A Young Woman to Zion! Come to Zion!” as a Peacemaker in Her Liahona, Nov. 2002, 94–96. Home Lesson 4: Obeying Gordon B. Hinckley, “Each Commandments Helps Us a Better Person,” Liahona, Fulfill Our Divine Roles Nov. 2002, 99–100. Gordon B. Hinckley, “How Thomas S. Monson, Can I Become the Woman of “Hidden Wedges,” Liahona, Whom I Dream?” Liahona, July 2002, 19–22. July 2001, 112–15. M. Russell Ballard, “The M. Russell Ballard, Peaceable Things of the “Women of Righteousness,” Kingdom,” Liahona, Liahona, Dec. 2002, 34–43. July 2002, 98–101. Margaret D. Nadauld, Lesson 10: The Priesthood: “Hold High the Torch,” A Great Blessing Liahona, July 2002, 108–10. Brenda Williams, “My Lesson 5: Home Terrible, Horrible Day,” Environment Liahona, Sept. 2002, 22–24. Russell M. Nelson, “Set Brandon J. Miller, “I in Order Thy House,” Needed a Blessing,” Liahona, Liahona, Jan. 2002, 80–83. Sept. 2001, 42–44. Dennis B. Neuenschwander, “Sustaining Priesthood “Holy Place, Sacred Space,” Leaders,” Liahona, Oct. Liahona, May 2003, 71–72. 2002, 25. Susan W. Tanner, “Did I Tell Lesson 11: Appreciating You . . . ?” Liahona, May 2003, the Bishop 73–75. Boyd K. Packer, “The Lesson 6: Sharing Work in Bishop and His Counselors,” the Home Liahona, July 1999, 71–74. “Family Councils: A Rosemarie Deppe, “My Conversation with Elder and Fathers,” Liahona, June 2003, Sister Ballard,” Liahona, 22–24. June 2003, 12–17. “Appreciating the Savior’s Jeffrey R. Holland, Sacrifice,” Liahona, June “Called to Serve,” Liahona, 2001, 26–27.

122 Lesson 12: Fathers’ Blessings Brenda Williams, “My Terrible, Horrible Day,” Liahona, Sept. 2002, 22–24. Maribel Herrera Chacón, “The Power of Faith,” Liahona, Mar. 2002, 36–38. “Faith in Jesus Christ,” Liahona, Mar. 2002, 42–43. Lesson 13: Patriarchal Blessings Boyd K. Packer, “The Stake Patriarch,” Liahona, Nov. 2002, 42–45. Richard P. Lindsay, “Chart Your Course by It,” Tambuli, Aug. 1991, 18–21. “How Can I Prepare to Receive My Patriarchal Blessing?” Liahona, Aug. 2001, 22–24. Lesson 14: The Blessings of the Temple James E. Faust, “Who Shall Ascend into the Hill Sept. 2001, 25. Lesson 20: Sharing the Lesson 24: Revelation in of the Lord?” Liahona, Lesson 17: Keeping Family Gospel Our Daily Lives Aug. 2001, 2–5. History Records Dallin H. Oaks, “Sharing James E. Faust, Russell M. Nelson, Raquel Pedraza de Brosio, the Gospel,” Liahona, “Communion with the “Personal Preparation for “Finding Grandpa Pablo,” Jan. 2002, 7–10. Holy Spirit,” Liahona, Temple Blessings,” Liahona, Liahona, Sept. 2003, 30–31. Stefania Postiglione, “With Mar. 2002, 2–7. July 2001, 37–40. Bobi Morgan, “My Search Love,” Liahona, Sept. 2003, Richard G. Scott, “To Kristen Winmill Southwick, by Postcard,” Liahona, 22–23. Acquire Knowledge and “Birthday Temple Trip,” June 2002, 46. Scott Bean, “The Truth the Strength to Use It Liahona, Feb. 2003, 8–11. Madeleine Kurtz, “I about My Family,” Liahona, Wisely,” Liahona, Aug. Sally DeFord, “In That Holy Found Them!” Liahona, Mar. 2003, 30–31. 2002, 12–19. Place,” Liahona, Dec. 2002, Mar. 2002, 41. Lani Ricks, “One Hundred Robert R. Steuer, “Being 20–21. Ruth Dorsett, “The Hidden Questions,” Liahona, Sept. Teachable,” Liahona, July Lesson 15: Temple Marriage Book,” Liahona, Nov. 2001, 2001, 8–9. 2002, 34–36. Spencer W. Kimball, 42–43. Lesson 22: Counseling with “How Can I Tell the “Oneness in Marriage,” Lesson 18: A Heritage of the Lord Difference between Liahona, Oct. 2002, 36–41. Righteous Traditions James E. Faust, “The Inspiration and My Own Lara Bangerter, “Man Boyd K. Packer, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Liahona, Thoughts?” Liahona, of My Dreams,” Liahona, Golden Years,” Liahona, July 2002, 62–69. Apr. 2003, 44–46. Feb. 2002, 46–47. May 2003, 82–84. Henry B. Eyring, “Prayer,” Lesson 25: The Law of Rebecca Armstrong Donald L. Hallstrom, Liahona, Jan. 2002, 16–19. Sacrifice and Elyssa Renee Madsen, “Cultivate Righteous Joel B. Macariola, “Three James E. Faust, “What’s “Forever and Three Days,” Traditions,” Liahona, Centavos,” Liahona, June in It for Me?” Liahona, Nov. Liahona, Aug. 2001, 6–7. Jan. 2001, 34–35. 2002, 20–21. 2002, 19–22. Lesson 16: Journals Lesson 19: Preparing to Lesson 23: Fasting Brings M. Russell Ballard, “The Spencer W. Kimball, “The Teach Others Blessings Law of Sacrifice,” Liahona, Angels May Quote from It,” Dallin H. Oaks, “Sharing Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Mar. 2002, 10–20. Tambuli, June 1977, 16–17. the Gospel,” Liahona, Law of the Fast,” Liahona, Robert K. Dellenbach, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Jan. 2002, 7–10. July 2001, 88–91. “Sacrifice Brings Forth the “Bridges and Eternal Keep- Dallin H. Oaks, Thaiz Martins Leal, Blessings of Heaven,” sakes,” Liahona, July 1999, “Nourishing the Spirit,” “Something I Had to Do,” Liahona, Nov. 2002, 33–35. 98–100. Liahona, Aug. 2001, 10–19. Liahona, Feb. 2002, 32–33. Carol B. Thomas, “Building Family Unity Richard G. Scott, “The “Increasing Our Spirituality “Sacrifice: An Eternal through Temple and Family Power of a Strong Testimony,” through Fasting and Prayer,” Investment,” Liahona, July History Work,” Liahona, Liahona, Jan. 2002, 100–103. Liahona, June 2001, 25. 2001, 77–79. ■

LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 123 General Auxiliary Presidencies NEWS OF THE CHURCH

SUNDAY SCHOOL Members Sustain Changes; Leaders Speak Out against Worldly Influences

n the Saturday afternoon Seventeen Area Authority Elder John H. Groberg Elder Merrill J. Bateman Elder Val R. Christensen session of the 173rd Semi- Seventies were released. (For First Counselor President Second Counselor Iannual General Con- a full list, see “The Sustaining YOUNG MEN ference, several General of Church Officers,” page 23, Authorities and Area this issue.) Authority Seventies were Changes to the Young Men released and four Area general presidency were also Authority Seventies were sus- announced. Elder Glenn L. tained. Changes were also Pace and Elder Spencer J. announced for the Young Condie of the Seventy were Men general presidency. released as first counselor Elder Lynn G. Robbins Elder F. Melvin Hammond Elder Donald L. Hallstrom Three members of the and second counselor respec- First Counselor President Second Counselor First Quorum of the Seventy tively. Elder Lynn G. Robbins were granted emeritus status of the Seventy was sustained RELIEF SOCIETY and released from full-time as first counselor, and Elder service as General Authorities. Donald L. Hallstrom of the For their years of service to Seventy was sustained as the Church, Elder Angel second counselor. Elder Abrea, Elder William R. F. Melvin Hammond of the Bradford, and Elder Cree-L Seventy continues as Young Kofford received expressions Men general president. of gratitude from Church During the Saturday Sister Kathleen H. Hughes Sister Bonnie D. Parkin Sister Anne C. Pingree members gathered in the morning session, President First Counselor President Second Counselor Conference Center in Salt Gordon B. Hinckley invited YOUNG WOMEN Lake City and in meeting- Elder David B. Haight to join houses throughout the him at the stand. President world. Hinckley told the congre- Released as members of gation that Elder Haight is the Second Quorum of the 97 years old and “has lived Seventy and given a vote of longer than any other Apostle thanks for their service were in the history of this dispen- Elder Duane B. Gerrard, sation.” Elder Haight waved Sister Julie B. Beck Sister Susan W. Tanner Sister Elaine S. Dalton Elder J. Kent Jolley, and Elder to the congregation and was First Counselor President Second Counselor D. Lee Tobler. then excused from sitting on Four new Area Authority the stand during conference PRIMARY Seventies whose callings had due to a recent illness. been previously announced In his address that morn- were sustained at the confer- ing, President Hinckley ence: José A. Castro, Santo reviewed the growth of the Domingo, Dominican Church, noting congrega- Republic; William K. Jackson, tions of Saints worldwide: New Delhi, India; Paul V. “We now have strong congre- Johnson, Sandy, Utah; and gations in every state of the Sister Sydney S. Reynolds Sister Coleen K. Menlove Sister Gayle M. Clegg Jay L. Sitterud, Highland, United States and in every First Counselor President Second Counselor Utah. province of Canada. We have

124 the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles called the Saints to action in his Saturday morning remarks, encouraging them to take a stance against growing trends. “We need to raise our voices with other concerned citizens throughout the world in opposition to current trends. We need to tell the sponsors of offensive General Authorities and the choir join with Church members worldwide in sustaining media that we have had Church leaders. enough. We need to support programs and products that such in every state of their training. . . . We are however much the standards are positive and uplifting,” Mexico, in every nation happy to report that the are belittled, however much Elder Ballard said. “Brothers of Central America, and plan is working well and others yield, we will not yield, and sisters, refuse to be used. throughout the nations of gradually expanding as we we cannot yield,” he said dur- Refuse to be manipulated. South America. We have gain experience.” ing the Saturday afternoon Refuse to support those pro- strong congregations in President Hinckley and session. grams that violate traditional Australia and New Zealand several other leaders also Elder M. Russell Ballard of family values.” ■ and the isles of the Pacific. spoke of the declining stan- We are well established in dards of the world and the nations of the Orient. reminded conference atten- Church Contributes $3 We are in every nation of ders that the Church’s stan- Western Europe and in much dards will not change. Million and Other Resources of Eastern Europe, and we “I believe and testify that it are firmly established in is the mission of this Church to Fight Measles in Africa Africa.” to stand as an ensign to the By Lisa Ann Jackson, Church Magazines “And this is only the begin- nations and a light to the o combat a disease “our contribution alone will ning,” President Hinckley world,” President Hinckley that in some parts of provide vaccine for three mil- went on to say. “We have said in his Sunday morning Tthe world is almost lion children. What a mar- scarcely scratched the sur- address. “There are forces all eradicated while in other velous and wonderful thing face. . . . Our work knows around us that would deter parts still commonly kills chil- that is,” President Gordon B. no boundaries. Under the us from that effort. The world dren, the Church has joined Hinckley stated during the providence of the Lord it will is crowding in on us. From all an effort to immunize mil- Saturday morning session of continue.” sides we feel the pressure to lions of children in Africa the October 2003 general President Hinckley pro- soften our stance, to give in against measles. Church offi- conference. vided updates on several here a little and there a little. cials announced their support The Measles Initiative is aspects of the work, including . . . We must stand firm. We at a ceremony in Washington, a five-year effort to vaccinate missionary work, humanitar- must hold back the world. If D.C., on 17 September 2003. 200 million children in Africa. ian efforts (see related article, we do so, the Almighty will Offering both financial aid Measles is the leading cause this page), and the Perpetual be our strength and our pro- and logistical support, the of blindness and the leading Education Fund. tector, our guide and our Church pledged U.S. $3 mil- vaccine-preventable cause of “To date the Church has revelator.” lion over the next three years death in Africa. The initiative granted about 10,000 loans President Boyd K. Packer, and will provide local volun- will prevent an estimated 1.2 to young men and women Acting President of the teers and facilities to the million measles deaths. in Latin America, Asia, Quorum of the Twelve Measles Initiative to help Involved in the initiative Africa, and other areas of the Apostles, also confirmed the stem the tide of measles in are the American Red Cross, Church,” he reported. “To Church’s unwillingness to Africa. United Nations Foundation, date about 600 young men alter its standards. “However With the vaccine costing Centers for Disease Control and women have completed out of step we may seem, less than U.S. $1 per child, and Prevention, United

LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 125 Nations Children’s Fund, Burton told the Deseret World Health Organization, News. “Over the years we’ve and Pan American Health done so on a number of proj- Organization, as well as ects, and we’re eager to con- international Red Cross and tinue that relationship.” Red Crescent offices and In his Saturday morning governments of affected general conference address, nations. President Hinckley noted that “The Church has once the money for the measles again illustrated its significant donation did not come from commitment to ending suf- tithing funds. “It came from fering on a worldwide basis,” contributions of the faithful The Church’s Web site in Germany is one of several country- said Marsha J. Evans, presi- to the humanitarian work of specific sites recently launched. dent and CEO of the American the Church,” he said. Red Cross, in accepting the The Church also pledged Church Launches Official first installment of the gift. logistical support to the initia- “We cannot express our enor- tive. Local Church members Web Sites for Individual mous gratitude.” will serve as volunteers, and Ms. Evans noted that the meetinghouses will be made Countries Church has worked exten- available. n a continuing effort to of their local Internet pres- sively with the Red Cross on “To be able to prevent a make the gospel message ence should be. At press other relief efforts, including child from dying, to be able Iavailable to all people time, 8 country sites had an additional U.S. $2 million to help so many so easily— through a variety of means, been launched, with 26 addi- donated in recent years for now what could be better the Church is expanding its tional sites under construc- other Red Cross efforts and than that?” said Harold C. Internet presence to serve tion. The live sites include assistance with a Red Cross Brown, managing director individual countries and lan- Austria, Chile, Denmark, vaccination campaign in of the Church’s Welfare guages. Areas have begun Finland, Germany, Norway, Zambia in June. and Humanitarian Services creating country-specific Web Sweden, and Switzerland. “We are delighted to part- Department, who presented sites, which serve as the offi- Country sites serve a vari- ner with the Red Cross,” the donation in behalf of the cial Church presence on the ety of purposes both for Presiding Bishop H. David Church. ■ Internet in a given nation. Latter-day Saints and for “Technology has blessed those who would like to learn us with many new innova- more about the Church. For tions to spread the message instance, on Sweden’s site, of the gospel through satellite visitors can refer friends to systems, our own . . . Web the missionaries; on Austria’s site, television, radio, as well site, media professionals can as the written text in our access information regarding magazines,” said Elder L. Tom the local Church; on Norway’s Perry of the Quorum of the site, visitors can find news Twelve Apostles. “All of these about the area; and on Chile’s add to our delivery systems, site, members can read mes- which greatly increase our sages from the Area Presi- ability to receive the mes- dency and other local Church sages that are delivered” leaders. (“Thou Shalt Give Heed unto “The purpose is to All His Words,” Liahona, July strengthen the members of 2000, 29–30). the Church with inspirational

PHOTOGRAPH BY GARRY FLAKE GARRY BY PHOTOGRAPH Area Presidencies are content,” says Elder Oscar A Red Cross nurse vaccinates a child in Africa. A donation assessing the needs of the Chavez, an Area Authority from the Church will help vaccinate three million children Church in their areas to Seventy in Chile. “It is a great in Africa against measles. determine what the scope privilege to participate during

126 ALEY

these times with these forms The Book of Mormon has of communication, especially been translated into Hindi in our respective callings and and Telugu, and selections assignments, to bring to pass from it have been translated the work of the Lord.” into Bengali and Tamil. COURTESY OF SANDRA D PHOTOGRAPH Links to individual Additionally there are at country sites can be found least 300 known languages at www.lds.org. Click on in India, but one language is “Country Sites” in the upper universal to all—the language right corner of the home of the Spirit. page for a current list. ■ From the humble beginnings of the Church in India A group of Saints in Hyderabad gather for a service project. in 1850, the Church has Serving together is one way Church members in Hyderabad grown to 3 districts with 22 feel the Spirit. Saints In branches in this predomi- Hyderabad, India nantly Hindu nation. The first meet and feel the language We have done many service By Fay A. Klingler chapel to be built in the city of the Spirit touching their projects, like going to a char- he 400-year-old city of of Hyderabad, a center of sci- hearts, just as it did Israel’s ity to teach children English, Hyderabad, India, bus- ence and technology located three years ago. fun stories, and games. I went Ttles with a population in south-central India, will be “When I first came to with the young men and of approximately 4.2 million completed in December 2003. church, I was surprised to see women to a government hos- people. In this city where old- “It is a dream come true,” the love among the Saints. pital to paint the walls, and world charm blends with says 18-year-old Gundey They were so happy. I could we helped Church members growth and enterprise, those Solomon Israel, who goes by see the glow of the gospel in when they moved.” who walk the streets may his last name. “The design of their faces,” recalls Israel. Joseph Cornelius, presi- hear the many languages of the chapel itself makes me Like Israel, 17-year-old dent of the Hyderabad First India. feel the Spirit. I am grateful Madhu Bunga remembers Branch, also recognizes the The official language is to my Father in Heaven for the first time he attended a importance of service and Hindi, spoken by 30 percent answering my prayers.” Church meeting and felt the attending Church meetings of the population. English With the completion of Spirit. to feel the Spirit. is the associate official lan- the chapel, Church mem- “I was glad to see so many “Members have service guage, and the most widely bers and investigators in strangers come and sit beside projects like collecting used for higher education, Hyderabad will have a beau- me and talk to me about my clothes for the orphanage government, and commerce. tiful building in which to life,” says Madhu, who once a year,” says President attended his first Church Cornelius. “We attend all the meeting in December 2000. Church meetings and activi- “I was amazed how people ties. We have family prayer taught and approached and family home evening.” things by the Spirit of God. Recently members from I loved it, and I ran to my the Hyderabad First and house, thinking all the world Second Branches collected was in my hands.” old clothing and bought rice

ALEY Madhu and other young and cereal to give to a boys’ members of the Church keep shelter. The people who run the Spirit in their lives by the shelter go to a train sta- attending church and semi- tion in the area, find boys nary and participating in serv- who are living there, and ice projects in the community. bring them back so they have “I am the only member a place to sleep. Schooling

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SANDRA D PHOTOGRAPH of the Church in my family,” and counseling are also pro- Women from the Hyderabad First and Second Branches in says Madhu. “To stay strong, vided at the shelter. India sand walls at a boys’ shelter. I attend seminary regularly. When Church members

LIAHONA NOVEMBER 2003 127 arrived at the shelter, they Republic of Congo Kinshasa were warmly greeted. After Mission, and includes the much visiting and an ex- Kananga First, Kananga change of games and laugh- Second, Katoka, and Ndesha ter, members sanded down Branches. the walls of the shelter, which The first formal meeting were in dire need of repair. in Kananga occurred in May The Cardston Alberta Temple was recently honored with a Paint was donated and 1988, when the late Gregory beautification award from the town of Cardston, Alberta, applied, giving the shelter a Kalala Bakadiabanya received Canada. clean, cheery appearance. permission from the mission Whether it is at the service president to meet with neigh- Cardston Temple Wins context, environmental re- projects or in friendly gospel bors and family when he vis- Beautification Award sponsibility, and relevance to discussions, the Spirit contin- ited the area after his baptism The Canadian town of the profession, the public, and ues to whisper the gospel to in Kinshasa. Almost five years Cardston recently recognized the environment. many in Hyderabad. Though after Brother Bakadiabanya’s the Cardston Alberta Temple Designed by Olin soft, the language of the Spirit visit, the first branch was with one of the city’s annual Partnership of Philadelphia, is clear, uniting Saints across organized on 12 January beautification awards—the Pennsylvania, the landscaping one of the most populous 1993. first time this temple has of the Conference Center fea- countries in the world. ■ The Democratic Republic been honored in such a way. tures trees, grasses, and wild- of Congo granted the Stan Johnson, former flowers native to Utah. Church formal recognition Cardston mayor and a coun- Adapted from Church News, in February 1986. There are selor in the temple presidency, 13 September 2003. In the News around 11,000 members in said the award is one indica- First District in Western the West African country. tion of the “tremendous con- Members Honored with Kasai Province Organized “As [our] prayers will be tribution that is made to the National Volunteer Award he first district in the without ceasing, [we] believe overall beautification of our Thanks to a seven-year province of Western that [we] will have the oppor- community by the temple.” partnership between the TKasai in the Democratic tunity to greet full-time mis- The Cardston Alberta Tucson Community Food Republic of Congo was organ- sionaries in this part of the Temple was dedicated in 1923 Bank and Arizona Church ized on 21 April 2003. vineyard of the Lord and [wit- by President Heber J. Grant, members, a United States The Kananga district ness] the creation of a stake seventh President of the coalition of food banks called was organized by Brent Phil in Zion,” says Eric Belangenyi Church, and was rededicated America’s Second Harvest has Petersen, then mission presi- Kapanga, Kananga district after extensive remodeling in honored the Church with its dent of the Democratic president. 1991 by President Gordon B. national Group Volunteer of Hinckley, then First Counselor the Year award. This tribute in the First Presidency. recognizes the thousands of Adapted from Church News, hours of service provided by 20 September 2003. Church members in Tucson. The food bank provides Conference Center 100-pound (37-kg) bags of Earns Award rice and beans and, three The American Society of nights a week, up to 100 Landscape Architects has Church volunteers gather recognized the Conference at the Church’s cannery in Center in Salt Lake City with a Tucson to package the food Design Merit award for excel- into family-sized meals. Each lence in landscape architec- month, about 50,000 pounds ture. It was one of 33 award- (19,000 kg) of food is repack-

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF KANANGA DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPH winning projects selected from aged and returned to the Brethren of the newly created Kananga district gather for a 436 entries. The awards are food bank for distribution. ■ priesthood leadership meeting. The district was organized in presented according to qual- Adapted from Church News, April 2003. ity of design, functionality, 20 September 2003.

128 ter the temple in Nauvoo. welve Apostles to serve as temple president. by Roland Lee by Roland St. George Temple, The first endowments for the dead were performed here. Dedicated on 6 April 1877, the St. George Utah Temple became the first temple completed af Dedicated on 6 April 1877, the St. George Utah Temple President Brigham Young called Elder Wilford Woodruff of the Quorum of the T Woodruff called Elder Wilford President Brigham Young “I believe and testify that it is the mission of this Church to stand as an ensign to the nations and a light to the world. We have had placed upon us a great, all-encompassing mandate from which we cannot shrink nor turn aside. We accept that mandate and are determined to fulfill it, and with the help of God we shall do it,” said President Gordon B. Hinckley during the Sunday morning session of the 173rd Semiannual General Conference. Addresses from the five conference sessions of 4 –5 October 2003 and the general Relief Society meeting are included in this issue. 4 02239 91000 ENGLISH 4