SAT SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 190TH SEMIANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Pres. Russell M. Nelson Elder David A. Bednar Elder Scott D. Whiting President of the Church Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

The world has been overturned Tests in “the school of mortality” are Latter-day Saints are commanded by in recent months by a global a vital element in eternal progression. the Savior to become “even as [He is].” pandemic, raging wildfires and Scriptural words such as “prove,” “ex- “Consider asking a trusted family mem- other natural disasters. amine” and “try” are used to describe ber, spouse, friend, or spiritual leader “I grieve with each of you who knowledge about, understanding of what attribute of Jesus Christ we are in has lost a loved one during this and devotion to the plan of happiness need of.” It is vital to also ask Heavenly time. And I pray for all who are and the Savior’s Atonement. Father where to focus efforts. “He has a currently suffering.” “The year 2020 has been marked, perfect view of us and will lovingly show Yet the work of the Lord moves in part, by a global pandemic that has us our weakness.” steadily forward. “Amid social proved, examined and tried us in many President Russell M. Nelson taught: distancing, face masks and Zoom meetings, we have ways. I pray that we as individuals and families are learning the “When we choose to repent, we choose to change!” learned to do some things differently, and some even more valuable lessons that only challenging experiences can teach us.” After committing to change and repent, the next step is to choose effectively. Unusual times can bring unusual rewards.” Two principles can guide individuals facing proving and trying an attribute to strive to develop. As one strives to obtain this Missionaries have been “resourceful, resilient and truly circumstances — preparation and pressing forward with a attribute, it will come gradually through His grace. Efforts to obtain remarkable.” Temples were closed for a time and con- steadfastness in Christ. these attributes will require prayers for His assistance. struction projects briefly delayed. But they too are moving “I invite each of us to ‘consider (our) ways’ (Haggai, 1:5, 7) By focusing deeply on one attribute, other attributes begin to forward. Family history has increased and new wards and and ‘examine (ourselves), whether (we) be in the faith; (and) accrue. stakes have been created. The Church has provided pan- prove (our) own selves’ (2 Cor. 13:5). What have we learned It is important to record experiences and what one is learning. demic humanitarian aid for 895 projects in 150 countries. during these recent months of lifestyle adjustments and “As I study with one of His attributes deep in my mind, the scriptures Through it all, one can know that he or she is loved by restrictions? What do we need to improve in our lives spiritually, become new as I see examples of this attribute.” Real progress Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. “They care for physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually? Now is the requires sustained effort and sacrifice. us! They and Their holy angels are watching over us. I know time to prepare and prove ourselves willing and able to do all “I know that becoming like Him through His divine help and that this is true.” things whatsoever the Lord our God shall command us.” strength is achievable step by step.”

Sister Michelle D. Craig Elder Quentin L. Cook Elder Ronald A. Rasband Pres. Dallin H. Oaks Young Women general presidency Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Quorum of the Twelve Apostles First counselor, First Presidency

The Old Members of Latter-day Saint Followers of Testament story of the Lord’s Church temples stand as Christ must forego a young man who should commit “to testaments of faith the anger and served the prophet live righteously and in eternal life. The hatred with which Elisha teaches that be united as never words “Holiness political choices each individual has before.” to the Lord” on the are debated or the power to ask Righteousness outside of a temple denounced. A the Lord through and unity are show that it is the “well-known but prayer to “open “profoundly signifi- Lord’s house. “He rarely practiced” your eyes to see cant,” because when people love God with all sets the standards teaching of the things you would not normally see.” their hearts and righteously strive to become by which we enter as His guests.” Savior is to “Love your enemies, bless them With the Lord’s help, all can learn to like Him, there is less strife and contention in The phrase “recommended to the Lord” puts that curse you, do good to them that hate you, see clearly “who we really are — sons and society.” additional perspective on being interviewed and pray for them which despitefully use you, daughters of heavenly parents.” And when Unity is enhanced when people are treated regularly by Church leaders. Rather than a hall and persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44). one’s true identity and purpose becomes with dignity and respect even though they are pass, holding a temple recommend means The first step to learning to love an enemy is clear, it is much easier to learn to see others different outwardly. one lives in harmony with the teachings of the to follow the Savior’s teaching not to “contend as God does. “As leaders, we are not under the illusion Church and is committed to living the Lord’s with anger” and to understand the power of “As I pray for the Lord to open my eyes to that in the past all relationships were perfect, laws. “Your temple recommend opens the love. Another essential part of loving enemies see things I might not normally see, I often all conduct was Christlike, or all decisions gates of heaven for you and others with rights is to “render unto Caesar” by keeping the laws ask myself two questions and pay attention were just. However, our faith teaches that we and ordinances of eternal significance.” of one’s country. to the impressions that come. ‘What am I are all children of our Father in Heaven, and During President Howard W. Hunter’s The Savior’s teaching to love enemies is doing that I should stop doing?’ and ‘What we worship Him and His Son, Jesus Christ, first address as prophet, he said, “It would based on the reality that all are beloved chil- am I not doing that I should start doing?’ “ who is our Savior. Our desire is that our hearts please the Lord if every adult member would dren of God. “That eternal principle and some These questions lead to opportunities to and minds will be knit in righteousness and be worthy of — and carry — a current temple basic principles of law were tested in the recent see others and act on behalf of the Lord to unity, and we will be one with Them” (Doctrine recommend.” protests in many American cities.” meet their needs. and Covenants 45:71). Though temples throughout the world are There have been racial injustices. “As citizens “As with all gifts the Father so willingly This is a moment of particularly strong closed or in limited use due to the COVID-19 and as members of The Church of Jesus Christ offers, seeing deeply requires us to ask divisions. “The millions who have accepted pandemic, being worthy to attend the temple of Latter-day Saints, we must do better to help Him — and then act.” By asking to see the gospel of Jesus Christ have committed has not been suspended. “Whether you have root out racism.” others and then acting by “loving, serving, themselves to achieving both righteousness access to a temple or not, you need a current Loyalty to established law instead of tempo- and affirming their worth and potential as and unity. We are all aware that we can do temple recommend to stay firmly on the rary “allies,” or ideologies, is the best way to prompted.” better, and that is our challenge in this day.” covenant path.” love enemies in seeking unity in diversity. SAT SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 190TH SEMIANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder D. Todd Christofferson Brother Steven J. Lund Elder Gerrit W. Gong Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Young Men general president Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

A sustainable, flourishing society Tanner Christian Lund, the youngest The tender mercies of the is one that promotes happiness, son of President Steven J. Lund and Lord are found among life’s daily progress, peace and well-being Sister Kalleen Lund, taught others a challenges for those with “faithful among its members. There are two timeless lesson in finding joy in Christ hearts and eyes to see.” Through examples of such thriving societies shortly before cancer claimed his challenges and sacrifice, the found in the scriptures: the city of young life. blessings of heaven can be found Enoch, or Zion, and the Nephites One Sunday, 12-year-old Tanner was in mortality. and Lamanites for two centuries determined to fulfill an assignment As disciples of Christ, “We are after the Savior’s ministry in the to pass the sacrament. His mother invited to change the world for Americas. assured him that someone else could the better, from the inside out, “The societies in these two examples … were obedient do it for him. one person, one family, one neighborhood at a time” by to God in their personal lives and they looked after one “Yes,” said Tanner. “But I see how people look at me when I pass living and sharing the gospel. And the contributions of each another’s physical and spiritual welfare.” the sacrament. I think it helps them.” individual in the service of the Lord are valuable. A thriving society can fail, however, if it abandons the That day, every eye in the chapel was on Tanner as he performed “As we hearken to the Lord’s spirit of prophecy, we can be- virtues that uphold its peace and prosperity, turns from a his sacred Aaronic Priesthood duty. come in our own way part of the fulfillment of His prophecies sense of accountability to God and trusts instead in the arm “Somehow, Tanner expressed a silent sermon as he solemnly, and promises — part of the gospel blessing the world.” of flesh. haltingly moved from row to row, his bald head moist with The restoration of the gospel began with a young teenage The institutions of family and religion are and have been perspiration, representing the Savior in the way that deacons do. His boy in the early 1800s. What began with an initial 5,000 crucial for endowing individuals and communities with the once indomitable deacon’s body was itself a little bruised, broken printed copies of the Book of Mormon in 1830 has led to virtues that sustain an enduring society. and torn, willingly suffering to serve by bearing the emblems of the 192 million copies published in 112 languages around the “These virtues, rooted in scripture, include integrity, respon- Savior’s Atonement into our lives.” world. sibility and accountability, compassion, marriage and fidelity in Tanner’s commitment to serve the Lord and others signaled an Through small and simple means, in which the Lord marriage, respect for others and the property of others, service “unspoken miracle.” invites His disciples to participate, His great work is and the necessity and dignity of work, among others.” The surest way to find joy in Christ is to join Him by helping others. brought to pass.

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell Elder Matthew S. Holland Elder William K. Jackson Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf First counselor, Presiding Bishopric General Authority Seventy General Authority Seventy Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Since the begin- The very purpose The world is God uses ning of time, the of repentance is to home to a great adversity to Lord has provided take certain misery diversity of people bring about His direction to help His and transform it and cultures. purposes. Though people prepare — into pure bliss. However, “an this pandemic is spiritually and tem- “Thanks to His over-fixation on neither wanted porally — against ‘immediate one’s cultural nor expected, God the calamities of goodness’ (Mosiah identity may lead has prepared His mortality. 25:10), the instant to the rejection of children and His God’s children we come unto worthwhile — even Church for this are blessed to be led by prophets who Christ — demonstrating faith in Him and a godly — ideas, attributes and behavior.” time. understand the need to prepare for the true change of heart — the crushing weight Many of the world’s problems are a re- “We will endure this, yes. But we will do calamities of the day — while also recognizing of our sins starts to shift from our backs to sult of clashes between differing ideas and more than simply grit our teeth, hold on and the limitations or restrictions that people may His. This is only possible because He without customs arising from culture. “But virtually wait for things to return to the old normal. We encounter in striving to follow the counsel of sin suffered the ‘infinite and unspeakable all conflict and chaos would quickly fade if will move forward, and we will be better as the prophets. agony’ of every single sin in the universe the world would only accept its original cul- a result.” The effects of COVID-19 and other of His creations, for all of His creations — a ture, the one we all possessed not so very Men and women are like seeds, and for devastating natural disasters are no respecter suffering so severe, blood oozed out of His long ago.” This “greatest of all cultures” is seeds to reach their potential, they must be of persons. Jobs have been lost, incomes have every pore.” founded on the Savior’s teachings and is buried before they can sprout. “It is my wit- been reduced and opportunities have been Sometimes an individual’s pain comes not available to everyone today. ness that though at times we may feel buried upended. from sin but honest mistakes, the actions of The “culture of Christ” is grounded in by the trials of life, or surrounded by emotional “You have been blessed with bishops and others, or forces beyond his or her control. testimony that Heavenly Father exists darkness, the love of God and the blessings of branch presidents who seek out members “Regardless of the causes of our worst hurts and loves each one of His children. It is a the restored gospel of Jesus Christ will bring of their congregations who have temporal and heartaches, the ultimate source of relief culture of revelation centered on the word something unimaginable to spring forth.” needs, and who have access to tools and is the same: Jesus Christ. He alone holds the of God, that champions the principle of Every dispensation has faced times of trial resources that can help you reestablish full power and healing balm to correct every agency, and is governed by the priesthood. and hardship, with twofold learnings. The your lives and place you on the path to mistake, right every wrong, adjust every It is a culture of learning and study, faith righteous are not given a free pass that allows self-reliance as you apply principles of imperfection, mend every wound, and deliver and obedience, prayer, and covenants and them to avoid the valleys of shadow. Also, preparedness.” every delayed blessing.” ordinances. Heavenly Father knows all suffering and will Better days await, but the “temporal peaks Through the goodness of Jesus Christ, “In the culture of Christ, women are not abandon His children. and valleys of mortality” will continue. By be- “We can escape the deserved agonies of our elevated to their proper and eternal “God has something unimaginable in mind coming temporally prepared, one can face life’s moral failings and overcome the undeserved status,” and the sanctity of the family is for you personally and the Church collectively trials with increased confidence and peace. agonies of our mortal misfortunes.” sanctioned. — a marvelous work and a wonder.” WOM WOMEN’S SESSION 190TH SEMIANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Sister Sharon Eubank Sister Becky Craven Sister Cristina B. Franco Relief Society general presidency Young Women general presidency Primary general presidency

In an imperfect world, individ- The Savior offers many tremendous All are a little broken, cracked uals can often feel powerless blessings. He gives much more than and damaged. However, “as we to make a difference. Here are the value of what could ever be come unto Jesus Christ by exer- three suggestions that may help returned to him. “In return for His cising faith in Him, repenting and make the changes needed to priceless payment for each of us, the making and keeping covenants, our create Zion: Lord asks us for a change of heart.” brokenness — whatever its cause — First, have mercy. “We often “Jesus Christ has given us a contin- can be healed. This process, which think of substance in terms of uous pattern for change. He invites invites the Savior’s healing power food or money, but perhaps us to exercise faith in him, which into our lives, does not just restore what we all need more of in our inspires us to repent. As we repent us to what we were before but ministering is mercy.” and turn our hearts to Him, we gain a greater desire to make and makes us better than we ever were.” Second, “Make your boat swing.” In the sport of live sacred covenants. We endure to the end by continuing to To heal brokenness by coming unto Him, faith in Jesus rowing, there is something called “swing,” which only apply these principles throughout our lives and inviting the Lord Christ is required. “Because He has experienced all our happens when “all are rowing in such perfect unison to change us.” pains, afflictions and infirmities, He knows how to help us that not a single action is out of sync.” As small, steady, deliberate changes are made, it’s important rise above our daily difficulties.” Such unity allows individuals to “be part of a collec- to not become discouraged. Change is a lifelong process in which Joy, peace and consolation are available to those who tive force that changes the world for good.” the Lord is patient with His children. come unto Him. “All that is (hard and challenging) about life Third, “Clear away the bad as fast as the good can Through Jesus Christ, strength is given to make lasting chang- can be made right through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.” grow.” In the allegory of the vineyard in Jacob 5, the es. As one turns to Him, He will increase the capacity to change. Of the Savior’s ability to heal and lighten burdens, Elder Lord of the vineyard laments that a good tree in good The Holy Ghost will also provide support and guidance as effort Tad R. Callister has taught: “One of the blessings of the ground is corrupted to bring forth wild fruit. is put forward. Atonement is that we can receive of the Savior’s succoring The instruction the allegory teaches is: “Unity doesn’t Some may have fallen from the covenant path and need our powers.” magically happen; it takes work. It’s messy, sometimes help. It can be difficult for them to come back on their own. “Jesus Christ is our loving Savior, Redeemer, the Master it’s uncomfortable, and it happens gradually when we Latter-day Saints should make an effort to help others return Healer and Faithful Friend. If we turn to him, he will heal us clear away the bad as fast as the good can grow. ” and heal. and make us whole again. I testify this is his church and he Although the Lord expects His children to do their part, Maintaining change takes effort, but because of Jesus Christ, is preparing to return once again to this Earth to reign with “We are never alone in our efforts to create unity.” change is possible. power and glory.”

Pres. Henry B. Eyring Pres. Dallin H. Oaks Pres. Russell M. Nelson Second counselor, First Presidency First counselor, First Presidency President of the Church

Heavenly Father’s “beloved Amid the present troubling The Lord has spoken of this mod- daughters” will play a crucial role in circumstances many are facing, the ern day with somber prophecies the establishment of Zion. Savior’s assurance is needed today. and glorious pronouncements and The Prophet Joseph Smith “The Lord has special love and con- reassured, “If ye are prepared ye promised the early Relief Society cern for His precious daughters.” shall not fear.” sisters that, if they live up to their Opposition is an essential Temporal preparation is import- privileges, they would enjoy the part of Heavenly Father’s plan ant, but even more important is association of angels. for helping His children grow, spiritual and emotional preparation. “That marvelous potential lies but all trials and tribulations are As commander of the Nephite within you, and you are being temporary. Joy can be found in armies, Captain Moroni prepared prepared for it.” the principles and promises of the gospel and in the fruit his people in three essential ways. Heavenly Father’s daughters have a gift to allay contention of one’s labors. First, Moroni helped the Nephites create “places of secu- and promote righteousness with their love of God and love for The Prophet Joseph Smith and early Saints faced immense rity” with embankments, forts and walls. “A place of security all those they serve. challenges. While crossing the Plains and establishing their is anywhere you can feel the presence of the Holy Ghost and “Sisters, you were given the blessing of being daughters of homes and the Church in the barren Salt Lake Valley, the be guided by Him” — including the home, the temple and God with special gifts. ... It is not by accident that the Relief Saints were of hope and good cheer. “At what could have following counsel of local leaders. Society, the first Church organization specifically for Heavenly been thought their lowest level, the pioneers rose to new Second, Moroni prepared “the minds of the people to be Father’s daughters, has as its motto ‘Charity Never Faileth.’” heights.” faithful unto the Lord.” Just as the Salt Lake Temple’s foun- Faith in Christ, coupled with the full effects of His Atone- There is “boundless power” in the doctrine of the restored dation is being strengthened, spiritual foundations must be ment, will qualify His followers for the “supernal gift” to live gospel of Jesus Christ, and unshakable faith in this doctrine solid. Regular immersion in the Book of Mormon builds faith. in promised Zion. “There you will be sisters in Zion, loved in brings guidance, joy, strength and confidence and enlight- Increasing one’s capacity to receive revelation will bring person by the Lord and those you have blessed.” ened minds — promised gifts from Heavenly Father. increased direction and “boundless gifts of the Spirit.” The sisters of the Church are citizens of the Lord’s kingdom “By understanding and conforming our lives to that Third, Moroni never stopped physically or spiritually on Earth. doctrine, including the divine gift of repentance, we can be preparing his people. The adversary never stops attacking. “You are daughters of a loving Heavenly Father, who sent you of good cheer as we keep ourselves on the path toward our “The more self-reliant we are — temporally, emotionally and into the world with unique gifts that you promised to use to bless eternal destiny — reunion and exaltation with our loving spiritually — the more prepared we are to thwart Satan’s others.” Heavenly Parents.” relentless assaults.” SUN SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 190TH SEMIANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Pres. M. Russell Ballard Sister Lisa L. Harkness Elder Ulisses Soares Acting president, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Primary general presidency Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Near the close of His mortal In mortality, there is a tendency Seeking the Savior in every ministry, Jesus Christ taught His “when we find ourselves in thought and following Him with disciples to “watch ye therefore, the middle of trials, troubles or a full purpose of heart requires and pray always” to be counted afflictions to cry out, ‘Master, aligning one’s mind and desires as worthy to “escape all these carest thou not that I perish? with His. This means living life things” that would cause Save me.’” in harmony with the gospel of commotion. “Certainly, the Savior of the Jesus Christ and focusing “on “Certainly, we live in a time world understands our mortal everything that is good.” during which things are in limitations, for He teaches us Despite continuous efforts commotion. Many people fear the how to feel peace and calm even to seek the Lord, inappropriate future, and many hearts have turned away from their faith when the winds blow fiercely around us and billowing thoughts may penetrate the mind. If permitted and invited in God and His Son Jesus Christ.” waves threaten to sink our hopes.” to stay, such thoughts can shape the desires of one’s News reports are filled with accounts of violence, moral For anyone with just the smallest particle of faith, Christ heart, what they will become and what they will inherit for denigration and a deadly global pandemic. Lives are being invites, saying, “Come unto me,” “Believe on my name,” eternity. By choosing to have wholesome thoughts, “We disrupted and many feel isolated and alone. “Learn of me, and “Listen to my words.” can become more aligned with Jesus Christ” and more “Each night when I pray, I ask the Lord to bless all who Recent events around the globe have buffeted nations, influenced by the Spirit. are burdened with grief, pain, loneliness and sadness. I communities and individuals with unforeseen trials. In Yielding to temptation is like approaching a magnet with know that other Church leaders echo that same prayer. such times of turmoil, “Our faith can feel stretched to the a metal object. The magnet’s force attracts the object and Our hearts, individually and collectively, go out to you and limits of our endurance and understanding.” But it is in holds it tightly. When the object is moved away, the magnet our prayers go to God on your behalf.” these “rough stretches of our journey” that faith is often loses power. “As we resist temptation, it fades away and Prayers are needed today for the nations of the earth. fortified. loses its power over our mind and heart, and consequent- “No matter how you pray or to whom you pray, please “Regardless of our circumstances, we can intentionally ly, over our actions.” exercise your faith — whatever your faith may be — and make efforts to build and increase our faith in Jesus Such adjustment requires daily and constant effort, in pray for your country and for your national leaders. … This Christ. … Our faith increases as we choose to believe addition to relying on the Savior. “Fighting against tempta- is not about politics or policy. This is about peace and the rather than doubt, forgive rather than judge, repent rather tion takes a lifetime of diligence and faithfulness,” but the healing that can come to individual souls as well as to the than rebel. Our faith is refined as we patiently rely on the Lord is ready to help and promises blessings to those who souls of countries.” merits and mercy and grace of the Holy Messiah.” endure to the end.

Elder Carlos A. Godoy Elder Neil L. Andersen Pres. Russell M. Nelson Presidency of the Seventy Quorum of the Twelve Apostles President of the Church

Recognize the importance of While spiritual conviction is The Lord is gathering those angels in one’s life — the angels increasing in some, faith in Jesus who are willing to let God prevail on “this side of the veil that walk Christ is diminishing in parts in their lives. For centuries, among us in our everyday lives” of the world. “We have taken prophets have foretold this and are reminders of God’s love. upon ourselves the name of the gathering, and it is happening The missionaries who share Savior upon us. What more are right now. the gospel with others, a good we to do?” “This pre-millennial gathering is friend who makes one better, a Part of the answer comes in an individual saga of expanding diligent seminary teacher or a following President Russell M. faith and spiritual courage for trusted youth leader can aptly be Nelson, who has invited mem- millions of people. And as mem- called “angels among us.” bers to follow his example and study the 2,200 scripture bers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “Thanks to all these angels, and many others I encoun- references of Jesus Christ listed in the Topical Guide. or ‘latter-day covenant Israel,’ we have been charged to tered during those important early years [following my President Nelson has also encouraged individuals to use assist the Lord with this pivotal work.” conversion], I received enough strength to remain on the the correct name of the Church. The gospel net to gather scattered Israel is expansive. covenant path as I gained a spiritual witness of the truth.” “I promise you that as you prepare yourselves as There is room for each person who will fully embrace the To new converts, do not give up on your efforts to be a President Nelson did, you too will be different, thinking gospel of Jesus Christ. Each convert becomes one of God’s part of the gospel family — it is the true Church of Jesus more about the Savior, speaking of Him more frequently covenant children. Christ. and with less hesitation. As you come to know and “Each of us has a divine potential because each is a “When it comes to your happiness and salvation, it is al- love Him even more deeply, your words will flow more child of God. Each is equal in His eyes. ... ways worth the effort to keep trying. It is worth the effort comfortably, as they do when you speak of one of your “Brothers and sisters, please listen carefully to what I to adjust your lifestyle and traditions. The Lord is aware of children or of a dear friend. Those listening to you will am about to say. God does not love one race more than the challenges you face. He knows you, He loves you, and feel less like debating or dismissing you, and more like another. His doctrine on this matter is clear. He invites I promise, He will send angels to help you.” learning from you.” all to come unto Him, ‘black and white, bond and free, To Church members, remember it is not easy for new Members can do a little better about speaking of Jesus male and female’ (2 Nephi 26:33). I assure you that your converts or others who may feel different to instantly fit Christ in their homes, with their children, in worship standing before God is not determined by the color of your in. The Lord is aware of the challenges they face, and He services, and with those around them, including on social skin. Favor or disfavor with God is dependent upon your is looking for angels willing to help. The Lord is always media. “As the world speaks less of Jesus Christ, let us devotion to God and His commandments, and not the looking for willing volunteers to be angels in others’ lives. speak more of Him.” color of your skin.” SUN SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 190TH SEMIANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Pres. Henry B. Eyring Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi Elder Gary E. Stevenson Second counselor, First Presidency General Authority Seventy Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

God’s purpose in the creation of Instead of joy and rejoicing, the During the COVID-19 pandemic, this world was “to give His children year 2020 has brought with it the Latter-day Saints around the globe the opportunity to prove themselves COVID-19 pandemic, civil unrest, have had their lives upended. able and willing to choose the right natural disasters and economic Missions, temple work and when it is hard.” By so doing, each challenges. “Our Heavenly Father traditional Sabbath-day worship person would have the opportunity may be allowing us time to reflect were disrupted. Some have lost to change their natures to become and consider our understanding of loved ones. Many have dealt with more like Him and “He knew that patience and our conscious decision heartbreaking disappointment, would require unshakable faith in to choose joy.” sorrow and discouragement. Him.” “Of all the zealous social, religious “So how do we heal, endure and Because Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love all, they want and political endeavors of our day, let ‘disciple of Jesus Christ’ move forward when things seemed broken?” all to return to them and become more like Them. But consider- be our most pronounced and affirming affiliation.” Nephi from the Book of Mormon provides a timeless ing the trials and difficulties of this world, “You might reasonably “Just as the trying of our faith works patience within us, answer. He knew many afflictions during his lifetime. Yet wonder why a loving and all-powerful God allows our mortal test when we exercise patience, our faith increases. As our faith his gospel perspective allowed him to see that he had been to be so hard.” increases, so does our joy.” “highly favored of the Lord.” The Lord knows that for one to live in His presence in families COVID-19 has created an opportunity for patience to “have “Times of affliction and disappointment do not change forever, one must grow in spiritual cleanliness and stature. To her perfect work” (James 1:4). Meetinghouses and temples the watchful eye of the Lord as He favorably looks upon us, make that possible, “Heavenly Father gave us a Savior and the have been closed for a season, but focus on home-centered blessing us.” power to choose for ourselves by faith to keep His command- learning can increase faith in the gospel and temple blessings. Latter-day Saints have endured the challenges of the ments and to repent and so come unto Him.” Many people have lost jobs or opportunities due to the past several months because adjustments were made by At the center of Heavenly Father’s plan is the opportunity for pandemic, but joy is found in the fact that Church members a living prophet before there was any hint of a pandemic. “our becoming ever more like his Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. In all have increased voluntary fast offerings and contributions to Each adjustment is an example of being “highly favored of things, the Savior’s example is our best guide.” humanitarian funds. the Lord.” He, too, had need to prove Himself and thus “endured for all of “ ‘Be of good cheer’ is the commandment from the Lord, not One day, the pandemic-caused disruptions and disap- Heavenly Father’s children, paying the price for all our sins.” By be of good fear.” pointments will be overshadowed by the “choice blessings suffering for all mortality, the Savior “knows how to succor you in It can take time and patience to receive desired blessings, and increased faith and testimonies.” They are evidence of whatever tests you face.” even when doing everything right. the Lord’s favor.

Brother Milton Camargo Elder Dale G. Renlund Elder Kelly R. Johnson Sunday School general presidency Quorum of the Twelve Apostles General Authority Seventy

While visiting the Americas after Without the blessings that Filling one’s heart and soul His resurrection, the Savior repeat- come from Heavenly Father and with the word of God and a ed an invitation He extended to His Jesus Christ, a person can never foundation of faith in Jesus Christ disciples in Jerusalem: “Ask, and it realize salvation. But because of is crucial to drawing upon the shall be given unto you; seek, and Christ’s atonement, returning to power of God for help in these ye shall find; knock, and it shall be Their presence is possible. challenging times. “Without opened unto you” (3 Nephi 14:7). “We can be redeemed and getting the word of God and President Russell M. Nelson has stand pure and clean before faith in Jesus Christ deep into given a similar invitation — to pray God.” our hearts, our testimonies and about the longings of one’s heart The prophet Micah taught: faith may fail, and we may lose and then listen, record thoughts and act on them. This is a “[God] hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what access to the power God wants to give us. Superficial faith pattern to “grow into the principle of revelation.” doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love is insufficient. Only faith and the word of God that fill our President Nelson also said revelation is essential to spiri- mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8). inner soul are sufficient to sustain us — and to allow us to tual survival. Why? Because the world can be confusing and To “do justly” means acting honorably with God and access His power.” noisy. “Communication with our Father in Heaven enables other people. To “do justly” and “walk humbly with God” Having the word of God deep in the soul, coupled us to sort through what is true and what is false, what is is to intentionally “withdraw our hand” from iniquity, with faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, allows relevant to the Lord’s plan for us and what is not.” walk in His statutes and remain authentically faithful. individuals to draw upon the power of God to overcome Asking reveals one’s desires and faith, and learning to A just person turns away from sin and toward God, the adversary. “As we face challenges, we can rely upon understand the voice of the Lord takes time and patience. His makes covenants with Him and keeps those covenants. A the promise of the Lord taught by Paul: ‘For God hath not voice doesn’t always come in strong impressions from the just person chooses to obey the commandments of God, given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of Spirit; rather, the still, small voice is “reaffirming, encouraging repents when falling short and keeps on trying.” a sound mind’ ” (1 Timothy 1:7). and comforting.” Christ’s sacrifice for sin and salvation from spiritual While regular temple attendance is impossible right Seeking requires mental and spiritual effort, humbly death are available to all who have a broken heart and a now, “There is no expiration date associated with the pow- trusting in the Lord’s promises. He will expand understanding contrite spirit. er God bestows upon those who make and keep temple “line upon line, precept upon precept” (2 Nephi 28:30). “A broken heart and contrite spirit prompt us to joyfully covenants or a restriction from accessing that power Knocking means to act in faith. By actively following Him, repent and try to become more like our Heavenly Father during a pandemic; His power diminishes in our lives only the Lord opens the way. Revelation often comes while doing and Jesus Christ. As we do so, we receive the Savior’s if we fail to keep our covenants and do not live in a way good. cleansing, healing and strengthening power. that allows us to continually qualify to receive His power.” SUN SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 190TH SEMIANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Pres. Russell M. Nelson Quorum of the Twelve Apostles President of the Church

How long does one wait for relief from pandemics or Despite the commotion in the world, the Lord wants His children personal trials, from hardships and burdens — even when to look forward with joyful anticipation. spiritual efforts and pleading prayers do not yield yearned-for To truly embrace a new normal, “I invite you to turn your heart, results? mind and soul increasingly to our Heavenly Father and His Son, “While we work and wait together for the answers to some Jesus Christ.” of our prayers, I offer you my apostolic promise that they are This can be done by repenting daily, be increasingly pure in heard and they are answered, though perhaps not at the time thought, word and deed, minister to others, keep an eternal or in the way we wanted. But they are always answered at perspective, magnify callings, and live each day more prepared the time and in the way an omniscient and eternally compas- to meet the Savior. This is why there are temples. “The Lord’s sionate parent should answer them.” ordinances and covenants prepare us for eternal life, the greatest Faith means trusting God in good times and bad, “even if that includes some of all God’s blessings.” suffering until we see His arm revealed in our behalf.” Such is difficult when many The COVID-19 pandemic required a temporary closure of all temples globally, followed by believe the highest good in life is to avoid all suffering. a carefully coordinated, phased reopening. In the past few months, thousands of couples “Christianity is comforting but often it is not comfortable. The path to holiness and have been sealed and thousands received their own endowments. “We look forward to the happiness here and hereafter is a long and sometimes rocky one. It takes time and day when all worthy members of the Church can again serve their ancestors, and worship, tenacity to walk it. But, of course, the reward for doing so is monumental.” in a holy temple.” Likening faith to a seed, Alma says the harvest comes “by and by.” “I bless you with an increased desire and ability to obey the laws of God. I promise that COVID and cancer, doubt and dismay, financial trouble and family trials — when as you do, you will be showered with blessings, including greater courage, increased will these burdens be lifted? The answer is “by and by.” personal revelation, sweeter harmony in your homes and joy even amid uncertainty.”