THE ENSIGN OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS • NOVEMBER 2004

General Conference Addresses Two New Apostles Sustained Uchtdorf; and Elder David A. Bednar. Uchtdorf; and Elder David A. t) are Elder Richard G. Scott; Elder Robert D. Hales; G. Scott; Elder Robert t) are Elder Richard om Perry; Elder Russell M. Nelson; Elder Dallin H. Oaks; om Perry; The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The Quorum of the Twelve Elder Jeffrey R. Holland; Elder Henry B. Eyring; Elder Dieter F. Elder M. Russell Ballard; and Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin. Standing (from lef and Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin. Elder M. Russell Ballard; Seated (from left) are President Boyd K. Packer, Acting President; Elder L. T Seated (from left) are President Boyd K. Packer, NOVEMBER 2004 • VOLUME 34, NUMBER 11

2 Conference Summary for the 174th 52 The Key of the Knowledge of God 111 Walking towards the Light Semiannual General Conference President James E. Faust of His Love 56 Anxiously Engaged Anne C. Pingree SATURDAY MORNING SESSION President Thomas S. Monson 113 If Ye Are Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear 4 Condition of the Church 59 A Tragic Evil among Us President Thomas S. Monson President Gordon B. Hinckley President Gordon B. Hinckley 6 Prophets, Seers, and Revelators 64 General Authorities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder Jeffrey R. Holland SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 9 The Power of God’s Love 67 Choose You This Day 117 Home, Family, and Personal Elder John H. Groberg President Thomas S. Monson Enrichment Meetings 12 Bringing Peace and Healing 70 Finding Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ 117 General Auxiliary Presidencies to Your Soul Elder Robert D. Hales 118 They Spoke to Us: Making Elder Dale E. Miller 74 The Opportunity to Testify Conference Part of Our Lives 15 Peace of Conscience and Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf 120 Teachings for Our Time Peace of Mind 76 In the Strength of the Lord 121 Aaronic Priesthood and Young Elder Richard G. Scott Elder David A. Bednar Women Resource Guides 18 Where Do I Make My Stand? 79 Senior Missionaries and the Gospel 124 News of the Church President James E. Faust Elder Russell M. Nelson

SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 82 The Women in Our Lives President Gordon B. Hinckley 22 The Sustaining of Church Officers President Thomas S. Monson SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 23 What Is a Quorum? 86 The Least of These Elder L. Tom Perry President Boyd K. Packer 26 Faith and Keys 89 We Did This for You Elder Henry B. Eyring Elaine S. Dalton 30 “Feed My Sheep” 92 Keeping Our Covenants Elder Ned B. Roueché Elder Richard J. Maynes 32 “I Stand at the Door, and Knock” 95 Remember the Teachings Elder Ronald T. Halverson of Your Father 34 How Has Relief Society Blessed Elder H. Bryan Richards Your Life? 98 More Holiness Give Me Bonnie D. Parkin Bishop H. David Burton 37 Securing Our Testimonies 101 Press On Elder Donald L. Staheli Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin 40 Pure Testimony 104 Closing Remarks Elder M. Russell Ballard President Gordon B. Hinckley PRIESTHOOD SESSION 43 Be Not Deceived GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY Elder Dallin H. Oaks MEETING 47 The Blessings of a Proper Fast 106 Belonging Is Our Sacred Elder Carl B. Pratt Birthright 49 Perilous Times Bonnie D. Parkin Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. 109 Out of Small Things Kathleen H. Hughes oboe: Mika Brunson; harp: Tamara Oswald); Conference Summary for the 174th “Now Let Us Rejoice,” Hymns, no. 3; “God Be with You Till We Meet Again,” Hymns, no. Semiannual General Conference 152, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. SATURDAY EVENING, 25 SEPTEMBER 2004, SATURDAY MORNING, 2 OCTOBER 2004, arr. Margetts, unpublished (“Jesus Once Was GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING GENERAL SESSION a Little Child,” Children’s Songbook, 55; “I Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Think When I Read That Sweet Story,” Conducting: Bonnie D. Parkin. Invocation: Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Children’s Songbook, 56; “I Feel My Savior’s Heidi S. Swinton. Benediction: Connie D. Invocation: Elder Keith Crockett. Love,” Children’s Songbook, 74); “Come, Cannon. Music by women of the Tabernacle Benediction: Elder D. Rex Gerratt. Music Come, Ye Saints,” Hymns, no. 30; medley, Choir, joined by their daughters, members by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Craig arr. Margetts, unpublished (“My Heavenly of the Orchestra at Temple Square, and for- Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; John Father Loves Me,” Children’s Songbook, mer choir members; Rebecca Wilberg, direc- Longhurst and Clay Christiansen, organists: 228; “I Will Follow God’s Plan,” Children’s tor; Bonnie Goodliffe and Linda Margetts, “Rejoice, the Lord Is King,” Hymns, no. 66; Songbook, 164). organists: “Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise,” “The Morning Breaks,” Hymns, no. 1, arr. Hymns, no. 41, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; Wilberg, unpublished; “Each Life That SATURDAY EVENING, 2 OCTOBER 2004, “There Is Sunshine in My Soul Today,” Touches Ours for Good,” Hymns, no. 293, PRIESTHOOD SESSION Hymns, no. 227, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; arr. Cundick, pub. Jackman; “We Thank Presiding and conducting: President Gordon B. “Consider the Lilies,” Hoffman, arr. Lyon, Thee, O God, for a Prophet,” Hymns, no. 19; Hinckley. Invocation: Bishop Keith B. pub. Jackman; “As Sisters in Zion,” Hymns, “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel,” Hymns, McMullin. Benediction: Elder Merrill C. no. 309; “Sing Praise to Him,” Hymns, no. no. 252, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; “Come, Oaks. Music by men of the Tabernacle Choir, 70, arr. Wilberg, unpublished. Let Us Anew,” Hymns, no. 217, arr. Wilberg, joined by members of the Orchestra at unpublished. Temple Square; Craig Jessop and Mack CONFERENCE RECORDINGS AVAILABLE Wilberg, directors; Richard Elliott and John Recordings of conference sessions are avail- SATURDAY AFTERNOON, 2 OCTOBER 2004, Longhurst, organists: “Guide Us, O Thou able at distribution centers, generally within GENERAL SESSION Great Jehovah,” Hymns, no. 83, arr. Wilberg, two months following conference. Available Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. unpublished; “I Need Thee Every Hour,” formats include audio and video cassette, Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. Hymns, no. 98, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; compact disc, and digital video disc. Invocation: Elder Stephen A. West. “Praise to the Man,” Hymns, no. 27; “The Recordings for individuals who are deaf Benediction: Elder Gordon T. Watts. Music Spirit of God,” Hymns, no. 2, arr. Wilberg, (videocassettes with a signing inset) and for by a Primary choir from stakes in West unpublished. those with visual impairment (slow-speed Jordan, Utah; Jane Knudsen Poulsen, direc- audiocassette tapes) are available from tor; Linda Margetts, organist: “Beautiful SUNDAY MORNING, 3 OCTOBER 2004, Special Curriculum, 50 East North Temple Savior,” Children’s Songbook, 62; medley, GENERAL SESSION Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3200. For Presiding and conducting: President Gordon B. more information, call 1-800-453-3860, ext. Hinckley. Invocation: Elder E. Ray Bateman. 2-2477 or 1-801-240-2477. Benediction: Elder Spencer V. Jones. Music CONFERENCE TALKS ON INTERNET by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Craig To access general conference talks on Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; Clay the Internet in many languages, visit Christiansen and Richard Elliott, organists: www.lds.org. Click on “Gospel Library” “Glory to God on High,” Hymns, no. 67; and “General Conference.” Then select a “The Lord My Pasture Will Prepare,” Hymns, language. no. 109, arr. Wilberg, unpublished; “Love Is Spoken Here,” Children’s Songbook, 190; HOME AND VISITING TEACHING MESSAGES “Redeemer of Israel,” Hymns, no. 6; “Still, For home and visiting teaching messages, Still with Thee,” Stowe and Shelley; “Come, please select an address that best meets the Ye Thankful People,” Hymns, no. 94, arr. needs of those you visit. Wilberg, unpublished. ON THE COVER SUNDAY AFTERNOON, 3 OCTOBER 2004, Front: Photograph by Welden C. Andersen. GENERAL SESSION Back: Photograph by Matthew Reier. Presiding: President Gordon B. Hinckley. Conducting: President Thomas S. Monson. CONFERENCE PHOTOGRAPHY Invocation: Elder Val R. Christensen. Scenes of general conference in Salt Lake Benediction: Elder Quentin L. Cook. Music City were taken by Craig Dimond, Welden C. by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir; Craig Andersen, John Luke, Matthew Reier, Jessop and Mack Wilberg, directors; Bonnie Christina Smith, Kelly Larsen, Tamra H. Goodliffe and Linda Margetts, organists: Ratieta, Scott Davis, Mario Ruiz, Amy Fisler, “High on the Mountain Top,” Hymns, no. 5, and Don L. Searle; in Finland by Olli arr. Wilberg, unpublished; “Adam-ondi- Hänninen; in Korea by Lee MinHee; Ahman,” Hymns, no. 49, arr. Wilberg, in Tahiti by Ken Hapairai; and in Taiwan unpublished (flute: Jeannine Goeckeritz; by Wang Wei Hsiang and Yen Chun I.

2 NOVEMBER 2004 • VOLUME 34, NUMBER 11

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

THE FIRST PRESIDENCY: Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, James E. Faust QUORUM OF THE TWELVE: Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, David A. Bednar EDITOR: Jay E. Jensen ADVISERS: Monte J. Brough, W. Rolfe Kerr MANAGING DIRECTOR: David Frischknecht PLANNING AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Victor D. Cave GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Allan R. Loyborg MAGAZINES EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Richard M. Romney MANAGING EDITOR: Don L. Searle EDITORIAL STAFF: Collette Nebeker Aune, Susan Barrett, Linda Stahle Cooper, Marvin K. Gardner, LaRene Gaunt, Sara R. Porter, Jenifer L. Greenwood, Carrie Kasten, Sally J. Odekirk, Adam C. Olson, Judith M. Paller, Rebecca M. Taylor, Roger Terry, Monica Weeks MANAGING ART DIRECTOR: M. M. Kawasaki ART DIRECTORS: J. Scott Knudsen, Scott Van Kampen DESIGN AND PRODUCTION STAFF: C. Kimball Bott, Thomas S. Child, Colleen Hinckley, Jane Ann Peters, SPEAKERS LISTED IN TOPIC INDEX Materialism, 98, 101 Tadd R. Peterson, Kari A. Todd ALPHABETICAL ORDER Activation, 30, 56 Meekness, 98 MARKETING MANAGER: Larry Hiller Ballard, M. Russell, 40 Addiction, 15, 43, 59 Missionary work, 40, 79 PRINTING DIRECTOR: Craig K. Sedgwick Bednar, David A., 76 Adversity, 18 Obedience, 92 DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR: Kris T Christensen Burton, H. David, 98 Agency, 32, 67 Parenthood, 95, 98 © 2004 BY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE, INC. ALL RIGHTS Dalton, Elaine S., 89 Apostleship, 6, 23, 26, 74, 76 Peace, 12, 15, 32, 111 RESERVED. The Ensign (ISSN 0884-1136) is published Eyring, Henry B., 26 Atonement, 12, 76 Perpetual Education Fund, 4 monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Faust, James E., 18, 52 Book of Mormon, 95 Perspective, 18 Saints, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-3220, USA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Salt Groberg, John H., 9 Charity, 9, 34, 98 Pornography, 59, 101 Lake City, Utah, and at additional mailing offices. Hales, Robert D., 70 Church growth, 4 Prayer, 37, 47, 70, 109 Halverson, Ronald T., 32 Commandments, 92 TO SUBSCRIBE: By phone, call 1-800-537-5971 to Preparation, 106, 109, 111 order using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or Hinckley, Gordon B., 4, 59, Conversion, 12 Pride, 101 American Express. Online, go to ldscatalog.com. 82, 104 Couple missionaries, 79 Priesthood, 23, 26, 52, 86 By mail, send $10 U.S. check or money order to Holland, Jeffrey R., 6 Courage, 104 Prophets, 6, 49, 70 Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, Hughes, Kathleen H., 109 Covenants, 52, 92 Purity, 59 UT 84126-0368. Maynes, Richard J., 92 Deception, 43 Quorums, 23 TO CHANGE ADDRESS: Send both old and new address Miller, Dale E., 12 Divorce, 82 information to Distribution Services at the above address. Relief Society, 34, 106, Please allow 60 days for changes to take effect. Monson, Thomas S., 22, 56, Endurance, 101 111, 113 67, 113 Faith, 18, 26, 67, 70, 86, 95, SUBMIT MANUSCRIPTS OR ART TO: Ensign Editorial, Room Repentance, 15, 43, 59, 2420, 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT Nelson, Russell M., 79 104, 111 101, 104 84150-3220, USA. Unsolicited material is welcome, Oaks, Dallin H., 43 Family, 34, 109 Responsibility, 56 but no responsibility is assumed. For return, include Packer, Boyd K., 86 Family history, 89 Restoration, 6, 26, 40 self-addressed, stamped envelope. Parkin, Bonnie D., 34, 106 Fasting, 47 Revelation, 6 E-mail: [email protected] Perry, L. Tom, 23 Fast offerings, 47 Reverence, 92 Ensign can be found on the Internet at www.lds.org. Pingree, Anne C., 111 Fellowshipping, 30 Click on “Gospel Library.” Sacrament, 9 Pratt, Carl B., 47 Forgiveness, 15, 30 Text and visual material in the Ensign may be copied for Sacrifice, 89 incidental, noncommercial church or home use. Visual Richards, H. Bryan, 95 Grace, 76 Scripture study, 37, 95, 109 material may not be copied if restrictions are indicated Roueché, Ned B., 30 Healing, 12 Service, 23, 52, 56, 67, 74, in the credit line with the artwork. Copyright questions Samuelson, Cecil O., Jr., 49 Heavenly Father, 9 82, 106, 109 should be addressed to Intellectual Property Office, Scott, Richard G., 15 Holy Ghost, 26, 32, 37, Sisterhood, 106 50 E. North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150- Staheli, Donald L., 37 40, 43 Teaching, 113 3011; e-mail: [email protected]. Uchtdorf, Dieter F., 74 Humility, 74, 76, 101 Temples, 4, 89, 104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Distribution Wirthlin, Joseph B., 101 Jesus Christ, 9, 30, 32, 40, Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, UT 84126- Testimony, 32, 37, 40, 47, 49, 0368, USA. 49, 67, 70, 79 70, 74, 76, 95, 101, 111 Light of Christ, 15 Women, 34, 82, 113 CANADA POST INFORMATION: Publication Agreement Literacy, 113 #40017431 Worthiness, 52, 86 Love, 9, 56, 82 Youth, 86, 89 Marriage, 82

NOVEMBER 2004 3 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION 2 October 2004 Condition of the Church PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY

I believe the Church is in better condition than it has been at any time in its entire history.

Twelve Apostles. We present their names to you this morning. You may not know them, but you will soon get acquainted with them. Those of you who feel you can sustain them in this sacred calling will please signify by the uplifted hand. Any who may be opposed? Their names will be included in the sustaining of all of the authorities later in the conference. Now we ask these Brethren to take their places on the stand with members of the Twelve. They will speak to us Sunday morning, and you will get to know them better. Now in opening the conference I wish to comment briefly on the con- s we open this great conference dition of the Church. It continues to we note the absence of Elders grow. It is touching the lives of more have ever previously been constructed A David B. Haight and Neal A. and more people every year. It is in the Church. They combine beauty Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve spreading far and wide over the earth. with great utility. If they look much Apostles. Each of them served long To accommodate this growth we the same, it is because that is in- and very effectively. We mourn their must, of necessity, continue to build tended. By following tried and tested passing. We greatly miss them. We houses of worship. We now have, at patterns we save millions of dollars extend our love to their dear ones. some stage, 451 meetinghouses of while meeting the needs of our We are confident that they are carry- various sizes under construction in people. ing on this great work on the other many parts of the earth. This tremen- We continue to build temples. We side of the veil. dous building program is phenome- recently broke ground for a new tem- We recognize that in the natural nal. I know of nothing to equal it. Our ple in Sacramento, California, the sev- course of events there are recurring structures are beautiful. They add to enth in that state, where we have the vacancies which make necessary fill- the ambience of any community in second largest membership of any ing these as they are created. which they stand. They are well main- state in the United States. After fasting and prayer we have tained. We have had long experience The temples in the Salt Lake City called Elder Dieter Friedrich Uchtdorf in constructing houses of worship, area are extremely busy and at times and Elder David Allan Bednar to fill and out of that vast experience we are overloaded. For this reason, we these vacancies in the Quorum of the are producing better buildings than have determined to build a new

4 The Church Office Building (left), Salt Lake Temple (right), and downtown Salt Lake City buildings dominate the view from the Conference Center. temple in the Salt Lake Valley. Twin Falls. This temple will serve imperative that we preserve the envi- The location of the site will be thousands of our members who live ronment around Temple Square. This announced shortly. It may appear between Idaho Falls and Boise. makes necessary a very large con- that we are unduly favoring this area. Temples are now under construc- struction project. Tithing funds will But temple attendance is such that tion in Aba, Nigeria; Helsinki, Finland; not be used for this construction. we must accommodate those who Newport Beach and Sacramento, The income from Church businesses, wish to come. And if the present California; and San Antonio, Texas. We rents on the property, and other such growth trends continue, we shall are replacing the temple which was sources make this possible. probably need yet another. destroyed by fire in Samoa. We must do extensive work on the We are also pleased to announce When those which have thus far Salt Lake Tabernacle to make it seismi- that we will construct another temple been announced are dedicated we cally safe. This marvelous structure has in Idaho, where we have the third shall have 130 working temples. been used for 137 years this month. largest membership in the United Others will be constructed as the The time has come when we must do States. Plans are going forward for Church continues to grow. something to preserve it. It is one of one in Rexburg. Now we are also plan- We are now working on a major the unique architectural masterpieces ning to build another in the city of undertaking in Salt Lake City. It is in the entire world and a building of

NOVEMBER 2004 5 immense historical interest. Its histori- cal qualities will be carefully preserved, while its utility, comfort, and safety will Prophets, Seers, be increased. We are grateful that we have this Conference Center, where we can meet for such gatherings as this. I now ask myself, “What would and Revelators we do without it?” I am pleased to report that the ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND Perpetual Education Fund continues Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to grow, as does the number of those who are the beneficiaries of this won- The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve are derful undertaking. commissioned by God and sustained . . . as prophets, We are strengthening our mission- ary program. We are striving to bring a seers, and revelators. greater measure of spirituality into the work of our vast body of missionaries. Our educational program contin- ues to grow, extending its influence tender remarks, may I also express wherever the Church is established. that same “affection . . . stronger than The Book of Mormon was recently death” and the deep personal loss felt included as one of the 20 most influen- by all of us in the passing of our tial books ever published in America. beloved David B. Haight and Neal A. We are now joining hands with a com- Maxwell. To those two brethren and mercial publisher to enlarge the distri- their sweet Ruby and Colleen, respec- bution of this sacred volume, this tively, we say that we love you, we rev- second witness of the Lord Jesus erence your service, and we honor Christ. the exemplary lives you have lived. And so, brothers and sisters, I might Each of us considers it the greatest of continue. Suffice it to say that I believe privileges to know you and to have the Church is in better condition than served at your side. You are precious it has been at any time in its entire his- to us forever. tory. I have been around now for In light of such significant transi- nearly 95 years of that history, and I tions in the rolling forth of this work, I have seen much of it firsthand. I am wish to say something this morning of satisfied that there is greater faith, n behalf of my Brethren the apostleship and the importance there is a broader measure of service, in the Quorum of the Twelve of its perpetuation in the true Church and there is a more general measure OApostles, may I be the first to of Jesus Christ. In so doing I speak of integrity among our youth. There is welcome Elders Dieter Uchtdorf and not of the men who hold that office greater vitality in all aspects of the David Bednar to their new callings but rather of the office itself, a calling work than we have ever seen before. and the sweet association that lies in the holy Melchizedek Priesthood Let us glory in this wonderful season ahead of them. When the original which the Savior Himself has desig- of the work of the Lord. Let us not be Twelve were called in this dispensa- nated for the watchcare of His people proud or arrogant. Let us be humbly tion, they were told that their and the witnessing of His name. grateful. And let us, each one, resolve appointment was “calculated to create In order to establish a church that within himself or herself that we will for you an affection for each other, would continue under His direction add to the luster of this magnificent stronger than death.”1 We already even after He was taken from the work of the Almighty, that it may shine have such affection for you, Brethren, earth, Jesus “went . . . into a mountain across the earth as a beacon of for your wives, and for your families. to pray, and continued all night in strength and goodness for all the world We say with one heart and one voice, prayer to God. to look upon, is my humble prayer, in “Welcome, dear friends.” “And when it was day, he called the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ In the spirit of President Hinckley’s unto him his disciples: and of them

6 he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles.”2 Later on, Paul would teach that the Savior, knowing the inevitability of His death, had done this to give the Church a “foundation of . . . apostles and prophets.”3 These Brethren and the other officers of the Church would serve under the direction of the resurrected Christ. Why? Among other reasons, so “that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.”4 Thus the apostolic and prophetic foundation of the Church was to bless in all times, but especially in times of adversity or danger, times when we might feel like children, confused or disoriented, perhaps a little fearful, President Gordon B. Hinckley directs the sustaining of two new members of the times in which the devious hand of Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. men or the maliciousness of the devil would attempt to unsettle or mislead. will more or less always be in—the that all those hopes could be realized. Against such times as come in our storms of life “shall have no power Perhaps some hour when you are modern day, the First Presidency and over you . . . because of the rock upon tired or troubled, this note will help Quorum of the Twelve are commis- which ye are built, which is a sure you remember why hearing your sioned by God and sustained by you as foundation, a foundation whereon if voice and shaking your hand is so prophets, seers, and revelators, with men build they cannot fall.”7 important to me and to millions just the President of the Church sustained Three weeks ago I was at a stake like me. Your sister in love and grati- as the prophet, seer, and revelator, the conference in the lovely little moun- tude, Gloria Clements.” senior Apostle, and as such the only tain community of Prescott, Arizona. Well, Sister Clements, your very man authorized to exercise all of the Following the delightful events of that tender note recalled for me a similar revelatory and administrative keys for weekend a sister silently slipped me a hope and almost the same language the Church. In New Testament times, note as she and others came by to once used in my own family. In the in Book of Mormon times, and in shake hands and say good-bye. With tumultuous years of the first settle- modern times these officers form the some hesitation I share a portion of it ments in this nation, Roger Williams, foundation stones of the true Church, with you this morning. Please focus my volatile and determined 10th positioned around and gaining their on the doctrine this sister teaches, great-grandfather, fled—not entirely strength from the chief cornerstone, not the participants in the exchange. of his own volition—from the “the rock of our Redeemer, who is “Dear Elder Holland, thank you for Massachusetts Bay Colony and settled [Jesus] Christ, the Son of God,”5 He the testimony you bore in this confer- in what is now the state of Rhode who is the great “Apostle and High ence of the Savior and His love. Forty- Island. He called his headquarters Priest of our profession,” to use Paul’s one years ago I prayed earnestly to Providence, the very name itself phrase.6 Such a foundation in Christ the Lord and told Him I wished I had revealing his lifelong quest for divine was and is always to be a protection in lived on earth when the Apostles interventions and heavenly manifesta- days “when the devil shall send forth walked upon it, when there had been tions. But he never found what he felt his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the a true Church, and when Christ’s was the true New Testament church whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and voice was still heard. Within a year of of earlier times. Of this disappointed his mighty storm shall beat upon you.” that prayer Heavenly Father sent two seeker the legendary Cotton Mather In such days as we are now in—and LDS missionaries to me, and I found said, “Mr. Williams [finally] told [his

NOVEMBER 2004 7 to such an alarming extent. I do not wonder,” he continued, “that so many men treat religion with contempt, and regard it as something not worth the attention of intelligent beings, for without revelation religion is a mock- ery and a farce. . . . The principle of present revelation ...is the very foundation of our religion.”12 The principle of present revela- tion? The very foundation of our reli- gion? Let me return from those foundations to the present, the here followers] ‘that being himself misled, dead. . . . It is the office of a true and now, the 21st century. For one he had [misled them,’ and] he was teacher,” he warned, “to show us that and all—ecclesiastics, historians, and now satisfied that there was none God is, not was; that He speaketh, not laymen alike—the issue is still the upon earth that could administer bap- spake.”10 In essence, Mr. Emerson was same. Are the heavens open? Does tism [or any of the ordinances of the saying, “If you persist in handing out God reveal His will to prophets and gospel], . . . [so] he advised them stones when people ask for bread, apostles as in days of old? That they therefore to forego all . . . and wait for they will eventually stop coming to are and that He does is the unflinch- the coming of new apostles.”8 Roger the bakery.”11 ing declaration of The Church of Williams did not live to see those Consider these stunning indict- Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to all longed-for new Apostles raised up, ments from the towering figures of the world. And in that declaration lies but in a future time I hope to be able American history, to say nothing of the significance of Joseph Smith, the to tell him personally that his poster- the prayers of a Gloria Clements, and Prophet, for nearly 200 years now. ity did live to see such. it highlights in bold relief the power- His life asked and answered the Anxiety and expectation regarding ful message of The Church of Jesus question “Do you believe God speaks the need for divine direction was not Christ of Latter-day Saints, especially to man?” In all else that he accom- uncommon among those religious to those of you who meet our mis- plished in his brief 38 and a half years, reformers who set the stage for the sionaries. Prophets? Seers? Revelators? Joseph left us above all else the res- Restoration of the gospel. One of the The events of 1820 and 1830, and the olute legacy of divine revelation—not most famous of the New England events of nearly two centuries that a single, isolated revelation without preachers, Jonathan Edwards, said, have followed, declare that revela- evidence or consequence, and not “a “It seems to me a[n] . . . unreasonable tions and those who receive them are mild sort of inspiration seeping into thing, to suppose that there should not “long ago given and done.” the minds of all good people” every- be a God . . . that has so much con- In the very year Mr. Emerson gave where, but specific, documented, cern [for us], . . . and yet that he his Divinity School address implicitly ongoing directions from God. As a should never speak, . . . that there pleading for such, Elder John Taylor, good friend and faithful LDS scholar should be no word [from him].”9 a young English immigrant to this has succinctly put it, “At a time when Later, the incomparable Ralph country, was called to be an Apostle of the origins of Christianity were under Waldo Emerson rocked the very foun- the Lord Jesus Christ, a prophet, a assault by the forces of Enlightenment dations of New England ecclesiastical seer, a revelator. In that calling Elder rationality, Joseph Smith [unequivo- orthodoxy when he said to the Taylor once said in sympathy with cally and singlehandedly] returned Divinity School at Harvard: “It is my honest seekers of truth: “Whoever modern Christianity to its origins in duty to say to you that the need was heard of true religion without com- revelation.”13 never greater [for] new revelation munication with God? To me the We do “thank thee, O God, for a than now.” “The doctrine of inspira- thing is the most absurd that the prophet to guide us in these latter tion is lost. . . . Miracles, prophecy, . . . human mind could conceive of. I do days,”14 because many of those days the holy life, exist as ancient history not wonder,” said Brother Taylor, will be windblown and tempest-tossed. [only]. . . . Men have come to speak “[that] when the people generally We give thanks for that morning in of . . . revelation as somewhat long reject the principle of present revela- the spring of 1820 when the Father ago given and done, as if God were tion, skepticism and infidelity prevail and the Son appeared in glory to a

8 14-year-old boy. We give thanks for that morning when Peter, James, and John came to restore the keys of the holy The Power priesthood and all the offices in it. And in our generation we give thanks for the morning of September 30, 1961, 43 years ago this weekend, when of God’s Love (then) Elder Gordon B. Hinckley was called to the apostleship, the 75th man ELDER JOHN H. GROBERG in this dispensation to be so named. Of the Presidency of the Seventy And so it goes down to a day such as this, and so it will go continually until Filled with His love, we can endure pain, quell fear, the Savior comes. forgive freely, avoid contention, renew strength, In a world of unrest and fear, politi- cal turmoil and moral drift, I testify and bless and help others. that Jesus is the Christ—that He is the living Bread and living Water—still, yet, and always the great Shield of safety in our lives, the mighty Stone of longing that cannot be denied. Israel, the Anchor of this His living Responding to true love is part of Church. I testify of His prophets, our very being. We innately desire to seers, and revelators, who constitute reconnect here with the love we felt the ongoing foundation of that there. Only as we feel God’s love and Church and bear witness that such fill our hearts with His love can we be offices and such oracles are at work truly happy. now, under the guidance of the Savior God’s love fills the immensity of of us all, in and for our very needful space; therefore, there is no shortage day. Of these truths and of the divinity of love in the universe, only in our of this work I bear witness. Of them I willingness to do what is needed to am a witness, in the sacred name of feel it. To do this, Jesus explained we Jesus Christ, amen. ■ must “love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, . . . soul, . . . strength, and NOTES . . . mind; and thy neighbour as thy- 1. History of the Church, 2:197. 2. Luke 6:12–13. self” (Luke 10:27). 3. See Ephesians 2:19–20. The more we obey God, the more 4. Ephesians 4:14. hat is it about true love that we desire to help others. The more 5. Helaman 5:12. 6. Hebrews 3:1. touches every heart? Why we help others, the more we love 7. Helaman 5:12. W does the simple phrase “I God and on and on. Conversely, the 8. Magnalia Christi Americana (1853), 2:498. love you” evoke such universal joy? more we disobey God and the more 9. The Works of Jonathan Edwards, vol. 18, The “Miscellanies” 501–832, ed. Ava Men give various reasons, but selfish we are, the less love we feel. Chamberlain (2000), 89–90. the real reason is that every person Trying to find lasting love without 10. The Complete Essays and Other Writings of who comes to earth is a spirit son obeying God is like trying to quench Ralph Waldo Emerson, ed. Brooks Atkinson (1940), 75, 71, 80. or daughter of God. Since all love thirst by drinking from an empty 11. Louis Cassels, quoted in Howard W. emanates from God, we are born with cup—you can go through the Hunter, “Spiritual Famine,” Ensign, Jan. 1973, 64. the capacity and the desire to love motions, but the thirst remains. 12. “Discourse by John Taylor,” Deseret News, and to be loved. One of the strongest Similarly, trying to find love without 4 Mar. 1874, 68; emphasis added. connections we have with our pre- helping and sacrificing for others 13. See Richard L. Bushman’s essay “A Joseph Smith for the Twenty-First Century” in mortal life is how much our Father is like trying to live without eating— Believing History (2004). These citations and Jesus loved us and how much we it is against the laws of nature and are from page 274, but the essay should be loved Them. Even though a veil was cannot succeed. We cannot fake read in its entirety. 14. “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet,” drawn over our memory, whenever love. It must become part of us. The Hymns, no. 19. we sense true love, it awakens a prophet Mormon explained:

NOVEMBER 2004 9 “Charity is the pure love of Christ, lungs breathing, and thinking what a I wasn’t sure I wanted to open my and it endureth forever; and whoso is marvelous body God has created to eyes, but when I did I realized that found possessed of it at the last day, it house our equally marvelous spirit! God’s love had changed everything. shall be well with him. The thought of a permanent union of The heat, the mud, the mosquitoes, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, these two elements, made possible the people, the language, the food pray unto the Father with all the through the Savior’s love, atoning sac- were no longer challenges. Those energy of heart, that ye may be filled rifice, and Resurrection, was so inspir- who had tried to harm me were no with this love” (Moroni 7:47–48). ing and satisfying that any physical longer my enemies. Everyone was my God is anxious to help us feel His discomfort faded into oblivion. brother or sister. Being filled with love wherever we are. Let me give an When we understand who God is, God’s love is the most joyous of all example. who we are, how He loves us, and things and is worth every cost. As a young missionary I was what His plan is for us, fear evaporates. I thanked God for this choice time assigned to a small island of about 700 When we get the tiniest glimpse of and for the many reminders of His inhabitants in a remote area of the these truths, our concern over worldly love—the sun, the moon, the stars, South Pacific. To me the heat was things vanishes. To think we actually the earth, the birth of a child, the oppressive, the mosquitoes were ter- fall for Satan’s lies that power, fame, or smile of a friend. I thanked Him for rible, the mud was everywhere, the wealth is important is truly laugh- scriptures, for the privilege of prayer, language was impossible, and the able—or would be were it not so sad. and for that most marvelous reminder food was—well, “different.” I learned that just as rockets must of His love—the sacrament. After a few months our island was overcome the pull of gravity to roar I learned that as we sing the sacra- struck by a powerful hurricane. The into space, so we must overcome the ment hymns with real intent, phrases devastation was massive. Crops were pull of the world to soar into the eter- like “How great the wisdom and the ruined, lives were lost, housing was nal realms of understanding and love. love” or “Dearly, dearly has he loved! blown away, and the telegraph sta- I realized my mortal life might end And we must love him too” will swell tion—our only link to the outside there, but there was no panic. I knew our hearts with love and gratitude world—was destroyed. A small govern- life would continue, and whether here (see “How Great the Wisdom and the ment boat normally came every month or there didn’t really matter. What did Love,” Hymns, no. 195; “There Is a or two, so we rationed our food to last matter was how much love I had in my Green Hill Far Away,” Hymns, no. four or five weeks, hoping the boat heart. I knew I needed more! I knew 194). As we sincerely listen to the would come. But no boat came. Every that our joy now and forever is inextri- sacrament prayers, phrases such as day we became weaker. There were cably tied to our capacity to love. “always remember him,” “keep his acts of great kindness, but as the sixth As these thoughts filled and lifted commandments,” “have his Spirit to and seventh weeks passed with very my soul, I gradually became aware of be with them” will fill our hearts with little food, our strength slipped notice- some excited voices. My companion an overwhelming desire to be better ably. My native companion, Feki, Feki’s eyes were dancing as he said, (see D&C 20:77, 79). Then when we helped me in every way he could, but “Kolipoki, a boat has arrived, and it is partake of the bread and the water as the eighth week commenced, I had full of food. We are saved! Aren’t you with a broken heart and a contrite no energy. I just sat under the shade of excited?” I wasn’t sure, but since the spirit, I know we can feel and even a tree and prayed and read scriptures boat had come, that must be God’s hear those most wondrous words and spent hours and hours pondering answer, so yes, I was happy. Feki gave “I love you. I love you.” the things of eternity. me some food and said, “Here, eat.” I thought I would never forget The ninth week began with little I hesitated. I looked at the food. I these feelings, but the pull of the outward change. However, there was looked at Feki. I looked into the sky world is strong and we tend to slip. a great inward change. I felt the and closed my eyes. But God continues to love us. Lord’s love more deeply than ever I felt something very deep. I was Several months after I regained my before and learned firsthand that His grateful my life here would go on as strength, we were caught in another love “is the most desirable above all before; still, there was a wistful feel- violent storm, only this time at sea. things . . . yea, and the most joyous to ing—a subtle sense of postponement, The waves became so big they flipped the soul” (1 Nephi 11:22–23). as when darkness closes the brilliant our small boat over, throwing the I was pretty much skin and bones colors of a perfect sunset and you three of us into the raging, churning by now. I remember watching, with realize you must wait for another ocean. When I found myself in the mid- deep reverence, my heart beating, my evening to again enjoy such beauty. dle of a tumultuous sea, I was surprised,

10 what could have been the last time, the Lord infused into my mind and heart a deep feeling of love for a very special person. It was as though I could see and hear her. Even though she was 8,000 miles away, the power of that love came rushing across those miles and, penetrating time and space, reached down and pulled me up— lifted me from the depths of darkness, despair, and death and brought me up to light and life and hope. With a sud- den burst of energy I made it to shore, where I found my shipmates. Never underestimate the power of true love, for it knows no barriers. When filled with God’s love, we can do and see and understand things that we could not otherwise do or see or understand. Filled with His love, we can endure pain, quell fear, forgive freely, avoid contention, renew strength, and bless and help others in ways surprising even to us. Jesus Christ was filled with unfath- omable love as He endured incom- prehensible pain, cruelty, and injustice for us. Through His love for us, He rose above otherwise insur- mountable barriers. His love knows no barriers. He invites us to follow Him and partake of His unlimited love so we too may rise above the pain and cruelty and injustice of this world and help and forgive and bless. I know He lives. I know He loves us. I know we can feel His love here and now. I know His voice is one of perfect mildness which penetrates to our very Elder David A. Bednar (left) and Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf were sustained to the center. I know He smiles and is filled Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. with compassion and love. I know He is full of gentleness, kindness, mercy, scared, and a little upset. “Why has of energy to keep my head above and desire to help. I love Him with all this happened?” I thought. “I’m a water and make it to shore. Having my heart. I testify that when we are missionary. Where is my protection? earned my Eagle Scout Award, I was ready, His pure love instantly moves Missionaries aren’t supposed to swim.” a pretty confident swimmer, but over across time and space, reaches down, But swim I must if I wished to stay time the wind and the waves began to and pulls us up from the depths of any alive. Every time I complained I found sap my strength. I never quit trying, tumultuous sea of darkness, sin, sor- myself underwater, so it didn’t take but there came a time when my row, death, or despair we may find our- long to quit complaining. Things are muscles simply would move no more. selves in and brings us into the light how they are, and complaining I had a prayer in my heart, but still I and life and love of eternity. In the doesn’t help. I needed every ounce began to sink. As I was going down for name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 11 not necessarily the same either. A tes- timony comes when the Holy Ghost Bringing Peace gives the earnest seeker a witness of truth. A moving testimony vitalizes faith; that is, it induces repentance and obedience to the command- and Healing ments. Conversion, on the other hand, is the fruit of, or the reward for, repentance and obedience” (in to Your Soul Conference Report, Oct. 1963, 24). Conversion does not normally ELDER DALE E. MILLER come all at once, even though the Of the Seventy scriptures give us dramatic accounts. It comes in stages, until a person becomes at heart a new person. Being As conversion matures and is sustained through the workings “born again” is the scriptural term. It of the Holy Ghost, peace and healing come to the soul. is a change of both how we think and how we feel (see Conference Report, Oct. 1963, 23–24). In the Book of Mormon we read of peace and healing. He gave encour- Enos, whose soul hungered to know agement to my sharing these remarks more of his father’s teachings con- with Church members. cerning eternal life. After a day and Elder Maxwell was and remains a night of continuous prayer, he had a wonderful example of selfless love. His voice come to him that said, “Enos, concerns for others were bone deep, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou especially for those with physical and shalt be blessed.” Enos writes, “I, emotional pains. Walking out of his Enos, knew that God could not lie; office, one could not help but be more wherefore, my guilt was swept away” committed to being Christlike. He set (Enos 1:5–6). a standard for us all. He loved the We have the account of the Savior. He was indeed a true Apostle prophet Alma the Younger recounting and disciple. We miss him. his conversion experience to his son He gave wonderful insights on Helaman. He told of coming to a dra- how total peace and healing come matic realization of his past sins and only through full conversion of the mistakes, confessing his rebellion soul. He commented on having against his God. He then remem- ere at Church headquarters learned years earlier from President bered his father, Alma, foretelling of we hold many committee Marion G. Romney concerning the the coming of one Jesus Christ, the Hmeetings, and early this year in steps to a complete conversion. He Son of God. Jesus would come to one of those meetings, Elder Neal A. quoted from a 1963 general confer- atone for the sins of the world. I Maxwell was listening attentively to a ence talk in which President Romney quote: “Now, as my mind caught hold presentation concerning the develop- quoted the Savior’s words to Peter: upon this thought, I cried within my ment of local leaders. Near the end “But I have prayed for thee, that thy heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have of the meeting, Elder Maxwell asked, faith fail not: and when thou art con- mercy on me, who am in the gall of “Is there more that we can do to help verted, strengthen thy brethren” bitterness, and am encircled about by bishops bring peace and healing to (Luke 22:32). President Romney com- the everlasting chains of death.” Alma the Saints?” I was interested in know- mented: “It would appear that mem- experienced eternal pain and guilt but ing more of his concern, so just prior bership in the Church and conversion realized that an escape was made pos- to his passing and in the privacy of his are not necessarily synonymous. sible through the Atonement. Alma office, Elder Maxwell expanded on the Being converted, as we are here using continues: “And now, behold, when I doctrines associated with obtaining the term, and having a testimony are thought this, I could remember my

12 pains no more; yea, I was harrowed C. S. Lewis put it this way: “[God] examples. The account of the Saints up by the memory of my sins no has infinite attention to spare for each in King Benjamin’s time will illustrate. more. And oh, what joy, and what one of us. He does not have to deal We read the response of the Saints marvelous light I did behold; yea, my with us in the mass. You are as much after listening to their king and soul was filled with joy as exceeding alone with Him as if you were the only prophet teach of the commandments as was my pain!” (see Alma 36:12–20; being He had ever created. When and of the Atonement of Jesus Christ: emphasis added). Christ died, He died for you individu- “And they all cried with one voice, Alma found his soul healed through ally just as much as if you had been the saying: Yea, we believe all the words the knowledge that Jesus would come only man [or woman] in the world” which thou hast spoken unto us; and and take away all his sins. As his soul (Mere Christianity [1943], 131). also, we know of their surety and became healed, he found peace within Are there scriptural accounts truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord himself. Alma was so captured by the of this conversion working among Omnipotent, which has wrought a effects of this conversion experience the Saints? We have a number of mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that he repeated the sensations to Helaman: “Yea, I say unto you, my son, that there could be nothing so exqui- site and so bitter as were my pains. Yea, and again I say unto you, my son, that on the other hand, there can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my joy” (Alma 36:21; emphasis added). He was teaching a pattern to his son of lasting peace and joy, just as Enos’s father had done. There is a pat- tern here of fathers teaching children about the Atonement and eternal life. It is a pattern for all fathers in our day. Several instructive points come to mind about Alma’s conversion: 1. Like Enos, he had a vivid aware- ness and remorse for past sins that had offended God. 2. Like Enos, he remembered his father’s teachings—the promise of atonement for sin, through Jesus Christ. 3. Like Enos, he personally pleaded in supplication for his soul. 4. Like Enos, he experienced the miracle of the Atonement to the degree that he could neither remem- ber the pains from his sins nor feel guilt. The healing of his soul was com- plete. It was a cleansing experience both to the mind and the heart. Joy replaced bitterness. He became a new man, born again of the Spirit. And like Enos, he immediately turned his attention to serving the Lord and his fellow beings. Will the Lord do for us what He did for Enos and Alma? The First Presidency (center) and members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

NOVEMBER 2004 13 prayer: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3). He also quoted the not-so-familiar statement of the Prophet Joseph Smith: “It is the first principle of the gospel to know for a certainty the character of God.” “I want you all to know Him, and to be familiar with Him” (History of the Church, 6:305). Knowing God and becoming His friend comes with the conversion process. Enos found it. King Benjamin’s subjects found it. Alma found it. It is available to all who will repent and obey the commandments. This conversion is an intimate and intensely personal experience. It is that we have no more disposition to Benjamin felt when they received about relationships. It involves awak- do evil, but to do good continually. . . . remission of sins. The record says, ening the Spirit of Christ, which is in all “And we are willing to enter into ‘. . . the Spirit of the Lord came upon men and women (see D&C 84:45–46; a covenant with our God to do his them, and they were filled with joy, 88:11). It involves awakening within us will, and to be obedient to his com- having received a remission of their the feelings of the Holy Ghost, leading mandments in all things that he sins, and having peace of conscience. us to a testimony of truth. It involves shall command us, all the remain- . . .’ (Mosiah 4:3.)” (in Conference receiving the Holy Ghost after accept- der of our days” (Mosiah 5:2, 5; Report, Oct. 1963, 25). ing the covenant of baptism. The gift emphasis added). Peter describes what happens in a of the Holy Ghost guides us and com- You will notice that their words are full conversion: We become “partak- forts us in our discipleship, bringing us very similar to the commitments you ers of the divine nature” (2 Peter 1:4; near to the Savior. The Savior, in turn, make in the baptismal covenant (see see also vv. 1–3, 5–9). is our Advocate with the Father, and D&C 20:37). It is through this total conversion through our faithfulness He will bring The blessings and promises of con- experience that we truly come to per- us to the Father to become joint heirs version are received by covenant sonally know and feel the character with Him (see John 14:6; Romans 8:17; through baptism and confirmation and greatness of God. It is the means D&C 45:3–5). and all the ordinances of the temple whereby we become not only servants We have a rich treasure of mar- and the priesthood. Then by contin- of the Lord but His friends as well. To velous teachings and thoughts left to ued repentance and obedience and the Saints of the early restoration us by the holy prophets. They are faithful keeping of the covenants period, the Lord defined His relation- truly God’s messengers leading His made, the fruits of conversion grow ship with them: “And again I say unto children to salvation and eternal life. and develop in one’s life. As conver- you, my friends, for from henceforth I Their testimonies serve to sion matures and is sustained through shall call you friends” (D&C 84:77). strengthen our faith. Please listen to the workings of the Holy Ghost, In last October’s general confer- their words and testimonies. They peace and healing come to the soul. ence, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught will help to lead you toward peace Somebody once asked President us and gave us his feelings regarding and healing to your soul. Romney how one could know when the grandeur and character of God It is my personal witness that the he is converted. President Romney (see “The Grandeur of God,” Liahona Spirit of the Lord is real and unmistak- answered: “He may be assured of it and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 70–73). He able. I testify that the Father and the when by the power of the Holy Spirit spoke of the eternal importance of Son are knowable and love you. I feel his soul is healed. When this occurs, knowing God the Father and His Son, that love through the power of the he will recognize it by the way he Jesus Christ. He quoted the familiar Spirit. Of these truths I testify in the feels, for he will feel as the people of verse from the Savior’s intercessory sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

14 mind is temporary, transitory. Peace of mind is restored by resolving the Peace external forces that disturb it. Not so with a troubled conscience, for it is unrelenting, ever present, a constant reminder of the need to correct your of Conscience past mistakes, to resolve an offense to another, or to repent of transgression. Oh, a disturbed conscience can be and Peace of Mind temporarily masked by physical stim- ulation of the mind and body where ELDER RICHARD G. SCOTT one yields to the temptations of alco- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles hol, drugs, pornography, and worse. All this at the cost of an increased appetite for false efforts to calm an For many, relief and happiness can come by understanding aching conscience with the risk of the relationship between peace of conscience and incurring unrelenting addictions. peace of mind. There is a better way to restore peace of conscience. The ability to have an unsettled conscience is a gift of God to help you succeed in this mortal life. It results peace of conscience.1 A tranquil principally from the influence of the conscience invites freedom from Light of Christ on your mind and anguish, sorrow, guilt, shame, and heart. The Light of Christ is that divine self-condemnation. It provides a foun- power or influence that emanates dation for happiness. It is a condition from God through Jesus Christ.2 It of immense worth, yet there are few gives light and life to all things. It on earth that enjoy it. Why? Most prompts all rational individuals often because the principles upon throughout the earth to distinguish which peace of conscience is founded truth from error, right from wrong. It are either not understood or not ade- activates your conscience.3 Its influ- quately followed. My life has been so ence can be weakened through trans- richly endowed from peace of con- gression and addiction and restored science that I would share insights on through proper repentance. The Light how it can be obtained. of Christ is not a person. It is a power Peace of conscience is the essential and influence that comes from God ingredient to your peace of mind. and when followed can lead a person Without peace of conscience, you can to qualify for the guidance and inspira- n these times of increasing uncer- have no real peace of mind. Peace of tion of the Holy Ghost.4 tainty there is so much heartache, conscience relates to your inner self It is well to remember that even Ianguish, and suffering throughout and is controlled by what you person- with peace of conscience you can the world that could be avoided by ally do. Peace of conscience can come have temporary periods when your understanding and applying truth. For only from God through a righteous, peace of mind is interrupted by exter- many, relief and happiness can come obedient life. It cannot exist other- nal concerns. Your understanding of by understanding the relationship wise. On the other hand, peace of the causes can relieve much of the between peace of conscience and mind is most often affected by exter- pressure they generate. As your per- peace of mind and by living the prin- nal forces such as concern for a way- sonal life conforms to the teachings of ciples upon which both of these ward child, economic pressures, real the Lord, you can seek His help in blessings are founded. or imagined offenses, deteriorating resolving the troubling issues. Thus God wants each of His children to world conditions, or more to do than your faith in the Lord and in His teach- enjoy the transcendent blessing of sufficient time to do it. An unsettled ings will yield peace of mind. Your

NOVEMBER 2004 15 efforts will be stepping-stones to external pressures that cause you review some fundamental principles greater personal growth as Spirit- temporary anxiety, worry, and dis- upon which peace of conscience is guided solutions are found. In tress. Yet try as you might, you will founded. addition, as they are resolved such not find enduring happiness until, Broken law from sin or transgres- challenges can often bring blessings to through repentance, you satisfy per- sion causes anguish of mind and others when their needs have caused sonally broken law to restore peace heart from an offended conscience. the disturbed feelings in your mind. to a troubled conscience. Knowing that all of His spirit children In summary, you can regain peace Whether you are one who recog- save His Only Begotten, Jesus Christ, of conscience by repenting of per- nizes a need to repent and are finding would unintentionally or intentionally sonal transgressions that cause you it difficult to do so or one who won- violate His laws, our Eternal Father internal turmoil. Then peace of mind ders if you have repented enough to provided a means to correct the con- can be secured by resolving the be fully forgiven, it may be helpful to sequences of such acts. Whether the violation be great or small, the solu- tion is the same: full repentance through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement with obedience to His commandments. When needed, full repentance will require action on your part. If you are not familiar with the classic steps to repentance, such as confession and abandonment of sin, restitution, obe- dience, and seeking forgiveness, talk to a bishop or study a source such as President Spencer W. Kimball’s mas- terly work The Miracle of Forgiveness. In addition to fulfilling those require- ments, the return of your peace of conscience will be hastened by careful attention to another step that is some- times not recognized. The Savior has made it clear that to receive forgive- ness you must forgive others their offenses against you. “I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men. “And ye ought to say in your hearts—let God judge between me and thee, and reward thee according to thy deeds.”5 “And when ye stand praying, for- give, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. “But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”6 If as an innocent victim you have been seriously wronged, don’t harbor feelings of hatred, anger at what appears to be unjust. Forgive the

16 offender even when you are innocent. To do that may require an enormous effort on your part. Such forgiveness is most difficult, but it is the sure path to peace and healing. If there is disci- pline required for a serious transgres- sion against you, leave that to the Church and civil authorities. Don’t burden your own life with thoughts of retribution. The Lord’s mill of justice grinds slowly, but it grinds exceedingly well. In the Lord’s economy, no one will escape the consequences of unre- solved violation of His laws. In His time and in His way full payment will be required for unrepented evil acts. I testify that of all the necessary The Chen family attends a broadcast of general conference in Taiwan. steps to repentance, the most criti- cally important is for you to have a security of Father in Heaven’s love. “Therefore, whoso repenteth conviction that forgiveness comes in Come back to the serenity and peace and cometh unto me as a little child, and through Jesus Christ. It is essen- of conscience that come from living him will I receive . . . ; therefore tial to know that only on His terms the commandments of God. repent, and come unto me . . . and can you be forgiven. You will be May I suggest a way back? You can be saved.”11 helped as you exercise faith in Christ.7 begin alone and proceed at your own Apply what the Book of Mormon That means you trust Him and His pace. I invite you to carefully study teaches you. Ponder the verses that teachings. Satan would have you the Book of Mormon. There are many speak of the Savior. Seek prayerfully believe that serious transgression scriptures that show how others have to know Him. Ask your Father in cannot be entirely overcome. I testify overcome barriers to repentance. For Heaven to strengthen your faith in that the Savior gave His life so that example, Alma speaks to Shiblon: His Son and give you the power to through repentance the effects of all “I was three days and three nights obey His commandments. When sin can be put behind you, save the in the most bitter pain and anguish of ready, seek the aid of a caring bishop shedding of innocent blood and the soul; and never, until I did cry out to help you complete the process of denial of the Holy Ghost.8 unto the Lord Jesus Christ for mercy, repentance. Then you can have peace The fruit of true repentance is did I receive a remission of my sins. of conscience and the assurance that God’s forgiveness, which opens the But . . . I did cry unto him and I did the Lord has forgiven you. door to receive all of the covenants find peace to my soul. Please come back. Don’t wait until and ordinances provided on this “And now, my son, I have told you all is in perfect order. We will walk earth and to enjoy the resulting bless- this that ye may learn wisdom, that ye beside you. We love you. Please ings. When repentance is full and one may learn . . . that there is no other come back. has been cleansed, there comes a way or means whereby man can be Now if you are one who cannot new vision of life and its glorious saved, only in and through Christ. forgive yourself for serious past trans- possibilities. How marvelous the Behold, he is the life and the light of gressions—even when a judge in promise of the Lord: “Behold, he who the world.”10 Israel has assured that you have prop- has repented of his sins, the same is From this scripture you can see erly repented—if you feel compelled forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember that suffering does not bring forgive- to continually condemn yourself and them no more.”9 The Lord is and ever ness. That comes through faith in suffer by frequently recalling the will be faithful to His words. Jesus Christ and obedience to His details of past errors, I plead with all If you have a troubled conscience teachings so that His gift of redemp- of my soul that you ponder this state- from broken laws, I plead, please tion can work its miracle. He invites: ment of the Savior: come back. Come back to the cool, “Behold, I have come . . . to bring “He who has repented of his sins, refreshing waters of personal purity. redemption unto the world, to save the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, Come back to the warmth and the world from sin. remember them no more.

NOVEMBER 2004 17 “By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins— . . . he will confess them and forsake them.”12 Where Do I Make To continue to suffer when there has been proper repentance is not prompted by the Savior but the mas- ter of deceit, whose goal is to bind My Stand? and enslave you. Satan will press you to continue to relive the details of PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST past mistakes, knowing that such Second Counselor in the First Presidency thoughts make forgiveness seem unattainable. In this way Satan To find happiness and joy, no matter what comes, attempts to tie strings to the mind we must make our stand unequivocally with the Lord. and body so that he can manipulate you like a puppet. I testify that when a bishop or stake president has confirmed that your repentance is sufficient, know that Bednar, men of strength and faith, your obedience has allowed the into the sweet councils of the Atonement of Jesus Christ to satisfy Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. the demands of justice for the laws I humbly pray this morning that I you have broken. Therefore you are may be understood and not misunder- now free. Please believe it. To continu- stood. In an increasingly unjust world, ally suffer the distressing effects of sin to survive and even to find happiness after adequate repentance, while not and joy, no matter what comes, we intended, is to deny the efficacy of the must make our stand unequivocally Savior’s Atonement in your behalf. with the Lord. We need to try to be When memory of prior mistakes faithful every hour of every day so that encroached upon Ammon’s mind, he our foundation of trust in the Lord will turned his thoughts to Jesus Christ never be shaken. My message is one and the miracle of forgiveness. Then of hope and counsel for those who his suffering was replaced with joy, may wonder about the seemingly gratitude, and thanksgiving for the unfair distribution of pain, suffering, Savior’s love and forgiveness.13 Please, disaster, and heartache in this life. go and do likewise. Do it now so that y dear brothers and sisters Some may ask: you can enjoy peace of conscience and friends, President “Why was I born with physical or and peace of mind with all their atten- MHinckley has reminded us mental limitations?” dant blessings. In the name of Jesus that the “golden years” are filled with “What did I do to deserve this Christ, amen. ■ more lead than gold! That is why I am heartache?” sitting down as I speak to you today. I “Why did my father have to suffer NOTES am recovering from a slipped disk, so much following a cruel, disabling 1. See Mosiah 4:2–3. which caused a pinched nerve in my stroke? He was such a righteous man 2. See Topical Guide, “Light of Christ,” 290. 3. See Moroni 7:16. back. I have been told that in time I and always faithful and true to the 4. See John 1:9; D&C 84:46–47. can expect a full recovery. Lord and His Church.” 5. D&C 64:10–11. 6. Mark 11:25–26. I express my profound apprecia- “Why did I have to lose my mother 7. See 2 Nephi 9:22–24; Alma 11:40. tion for the blessings that have come twice—once to the ravages of 8. Unpardonable: see Hebrews 6:4–8; Alma to the world through the magnificent Alzheimer’s disease and, secondly, to 39:6; D&C 76:31–38; 132:27; Unforgivable: see D&C 42:18. service of our departed Brethren, death? She was such an angel.” 9. D&C 58:42. Elders Neal A. Maxwell and David B. “Why did the Lord let our little 10. Alma 38:8–9. Haight of the Council of the Twelve baby girl die? She was so precious, 11. 3 Nephi 9:21–22. 12. D&C 58:42–43. Apostles. Our loss is great. We wel- and we loved her so much.” 13. See Alma 26:17–20. come Brother Uchtdorf and Brother “Why hasn’t the Lord answered

18 our prayers the way we wished?” “If pain and sorrow and total pun- act, when we were in the premortal “Life isn’t fair. We know some peo- ishment immediately followed the existence; and now we have a present ple who have done some very bad doing of evil, no soul would repeat a act, which is mortality; and we will things, and yet they seem to have misdeed. If joy and peace and rewards have a future act, when we return to everything they want or need.” were instantaneously given the doer of God.3 As Jesus promised, “In my Dr. Arthur Wentworth Hewitt sug- good, there could be no evil—all Father’s house are many mansions.”4 gested some reasons why the good would do good and not because of the We were sent into mortality to be suffer as well as the wicked: “First: I rightness of doing good. There would tested and tried. As the Lord explained don’t know. Second: We may not be be no test of strength, no develop- to Abraham, “We will prove them as innocent as we think. Third: . . . I ment of character, no growth of pow- herewith, to see if they will do all believe it is because He loves us so ers, no free agency. . . . There would things whatsoever the Lord their God much more than He loves our happi- also be an absence of joy, success, res- shall command them.”5 ness. How so? Well, if on a basis of urrection, eternal life, and godhood.”2 Our past and present sufferings strict personal return here and now, Our love of God must be pure, cannot, as Paul said, “be compared all the good were always happy and without selfish intent. The pure love with the glory which shall be revealed all the bad suffered disaster (instead of Christ must be the motive in our in us”6 in the eternities. “For after of often quite the reverse), this would devotion. much tribulation come the blessings. be the most subtle damnation of char- Now all this suffering might indeed Wherefore the day cometh that ye acter imaginable.”1 be unfair if everything ended at death, shall be crowned with much glory.”7 President Kimball gave this insight- but it doesn’t. Life is not like a one-act So tribulation is useful in the ful explanation: play. It has three acts. We had a past sense that it is helpful to get

NOVEMBER 2004 19 into the celestial kingdom. softened because of their afflictions.”8 learned to play skillfully. At Council Some, because they lack faith or The same circumstances produced Bluffs he joined a handcart company understanding of the eternal plan, opposite responses. The writer who and headed west. “Though blind he become bitter and lose hope. One lost so much was not able to draw pulled a handcart from Council Bluffs such was a 19th-century writer who from the well of faith. Each of us needs to Salt Lake City.” While crossing the achieved both success and wealth to have our own storehouse of faith to plains his wife and two children died. with his dazzling wit and writing style. help us rise above the troubles that are “His sorrow was great and his heart His wife came from a religious family, part of this mortal probation. almost broken, but his faith did not fail and he wanted to have faith in God Thomas Giles, a Welsh convert him. In the midst of his grief he said as but wasn’t really sure God existed. who joined the Church in 1844, also did one of old, ‘The Lord giveth, and Then he was hit by a series of crush- suffered much in his lifetime. He was the Lord taketh away; blessed be the ing blows. In 1893 a national financial a miner, and while he was digging name of the Lord.’ ” 9 When Brother crisis left him deeply in debt. His old- coal in the mine, a large piece of coal Giles arrived in Salt Lake City, est daughter died while he was on a hit him on the head and inflicted a President Brigham Young, who had speaking tour. His wife’s health failed, wound nine inches long. The doctor heard his story, loaned Brother Giles and she died in 1904. His youngest who examined him said the injured a valuable harp until his own arrived daughter died in 1909. His own health man would not live longer than 24 from Wales. Brother Giles “traveled declined. His writing, which had for- hours. But then the elders came and from settlement to settlement in Utah, merly been so full of sparkle, now administered to him. He was prom- . . . gladdening the hearts of the peo- reflected his bitterness. He became ised that he would get well, and that ple with his sweet music.”10 progressively depressed, cynical, and “even if he would never see again, he How we use our God-given moral disillusioned and remained so until would live to do much good in the agency explains why some things hap- his death in 1910. With all his bril- Church.” Brother Giles did indeed pen in our lives. Some of our choices liance, he lacked the inner strength live but was blind the rest of his life. have unforeseen results, which may to deal with adversity and simply Within a month of his injury “he was be good or bad. But often we know in resigned himself to his misfortunes. out traveling through the country advance that some of our choices will It’s not so much what happens to attending to his ecclesiastical duties.” have detrimental or even harmful us but how we deal with what happens In 1856 Brother Giles and his family consequences. I call these “informed to us. That reminds me of a passage immigrated to Utah, but before he left choices” because we know our acts from Alma. After a long war “many had his homeland, the Welsh Saints pre- will have disastrous results. These become hardened,” while “many were sented him with a harp, which he informed choices include illicit sexual

20 relations and the use of drugs, alco- earth: and though after my skin the profound insight that at least hol, or tobacco. Such poor informed worms destroy this body, yet in my some of our suffering has a purpose choices may prevent a person from flesh shall I see God.”14 Job com- when he said: going on a mission or receiving tem- pletely trusted the Lord to take care “All intelligent beings who are ple blessings. We may make incorrect of all of the other concerns. crowned with crowns of glory, informed decisions because the lures The way to find joy in this life is to immortality, and eternal lives must of the world distort reality and make resolve, like Job, to endure all for God pass through every ordeal appointed us vulnerable. In dating relationships and His work. By so doing we will for intelligent beings to pass through, with the opposite sex, making a receive the infinite, priceless joy of to gain their glory and exaltation. wrong choice early may limit making being with our Savior in the eterni- Every calamity that can come upon the right choice later. ties. As we sing in one of our well- mortal beings will be suffered to So where should each of us make known hymns: come upon the few, to prepare them our stand? As we demonstrate our to enjoy the presence of the Lord. . . . devotion to God by our daily acts of The soul that on Jesus hath leaned Every trial and experience you have righteousness, He can know where we for repose passed through is necessary for your stand. For all of us this life is a time of I will not, I cannot, desert to his salvation.”20 sifting and refining. We all face trials. foes; We have much reason to hope. Joy Individual members in the early days That soul, though all hell should can be ours if we are willing to sacrifice of the Church were tested and refined endeavor to shake, all for the Lord. Then we can look for- when they had to decide if they had I’ll never, no never, no never ward to the infinitely priceless possibil- the faith, like Brother Giles, to put forsake! 15 ity of overcoming all the challenges of their belongings in a wagon or a pio- this life. Then we will be with the neer handcart and travel across the President Howard W. Hunter once Savior forever and, as President American plains. Some did not have said, “God knows what we do not Brigham Young also said, “anticipate the faith. Those who did traveled know and sees what we do not see.”16 enjoying the glory, excellency and exal- “with faith in every footstep.” In our None of us knows the wisdom of the tation which God has prepared for the time we are going through an increas- Lord. We do not know in advance faithful.”21 God lives, Jesus is the Christ, ingly difficult time of refining and test- exactly how He would get us from President Gordon B. Hinckley is our ing. The tests are more subtle because where we are to where we need to prophet, and this is a time for all of us the lines between good and evil are be, but He does offer us broad out- to prepare to meet God. I so testify in being eroded. Very little seems to be lines in our patriarchal blessings. We the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ sacred in any of our public communi- encounter many bumps, bends, and cation. In this environment we will forks in the road of life that leads to NOTES 1. Excerpt from a letter. need to make sure where we stand all the eternities. There is so much 2. The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. of the time in our commitment to teaching and correction as we travel Edward L. Kimball (1982), 77. eternal truths and covenants. on that road. Said the Lord, “He that 3. See Ecclesiastes 12:7. 4. John 14:2. We learn much about dealing with will not bear chastisement is not wor- 5. Abraham 3:25. suffering from “a man in the land of thy of my kingdom.”17 “For whom the 6. Romans 8:18. Uz, whose name was Job; and that Lord loveth he chasteneth.”18 7. D&C 58:4. 8. Alma 62:41. man was perfect and upright, and one As we live on earth we must walk 9. See Job 1:21. that feared God, and eschewed evil.”11 in faith, nothing doubting. When the 10. See Andrew Jenson, Latter-day Saint Satan obtained leave from the Lord to journey becomes seemingly unbear- Biographical Encyclopedia, 4 vols. (1901–36), 2:507–8. tempt and try Job. Job was rich and able, we can take comfort in the 11. Job 1:1. had seven sons and three daughters, words of the Lord: “I have heard thy 12. Job 13:15. 13. Job 13:16. but his property and children were all prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, 14. Job 19:25–26. destroyed. What effect did this have I will heal thee.”19 Some of the healing 15. “How Firm a Foundation,” Hymns, no. 85. on Job? Said he, speaking of the Lord, may take place in another world. We 16. In Conference Report, Oct. 1987, 71; or Ensign, Nov. 1987, 60. “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in may never know why some things 17. D&C 136:31. him,”12 and, “He also shall be my sal- happen in this life. The reason for 18. Hebrews 12:6. vation.”13 Job attested, “For I know some of our suffering is known only 19. 2 Kings 20:5. 20. Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. that my redeemer liveth, and that he to the Lord. Widtsoe (1954), 345. shall stand at the latter day upon the President Brigham Young offered 21. “Remarks,” Deseret News, 31 May 1871, 197.

NOVEMBER 2004 21 SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 2 October 2004

Alvarado, Modesto M. Amistad Jr., Horacio P. Araya, David A. Bednar, The Sustaining Robert K. Bills, Harold C. Brown, V. Francisco Chinchay, Armando Gaona, Eduardo A. Lamartine, Gary S. Matsuda, Julio E. Otay, Carlos L. of Church Officers Pedraja, Jorge A. Pedrero, João R. C. Martins Silva, Irajá B. Soáres, Héctor M. PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON Verdugo, Jorge F. Zeballos. First Counselor in the First Presidency Those who wish to join in an expression of appreciation, please indicate by the uplifted hand. It is proposed that we sustain Elder President of the Quorum of the Twelve Robert C. Oaks as a member of the Apostles; and the following as mem- Presidency of the Quorums of the bers of that quorum: Boyd K. Packer, Seventy. L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, All in favor please manifest it. Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Any opposed, by the same sign. Joseph B. Wirthlin, Richard G. Scott, It is proposed that we sustain Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, Andrew M. Ford as an Area Authority Henry B. Eyring, Dieter Friedrich Seventy. Uchtdorf, and David Allan Bednar. All in favor please manifest it. Those in favor please manifest it. Any opposed. Any opposed. It is proposed that we sustain It is proposed that we sustain the the other General Authorities, Area Counselors in the First Presidency Authority Seventies, and general and the Twelve Apostles as prophets, auxiliary presidencies as presently seers, and revelators. constituted. All in favor please manifest it. Those in favor please manifest it. Contrary, if there be any, by the Any opposed may manifest it. y brothers and sisters, same sign. It appears that the sustaining has President Hinckley has In view of his call to the Quorum been unanimous in the affirmative. Mrequested that I now present of the Twelve, it is proposed that we Thank you, brothers and sisters, to you the General Authorities, Area release Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf as a for your faith and prayers. ■ Authority Seventies, and general auxil- member of the Presidency of the iary presidencies of the Church for Quorums of the Seventy and as a your sustaining vote. member of the First Quorum of the It is proposed that we sustain Seventy. All who wish to join with us Gordon Bitner Hinckley as prophet, in doing so, please manifest it. seer, and revelator and President of With gratitude for their service as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- members of the Second Quorum of day Saints; Thomas Spencer Monson as the Seventy, we extend an honorable First Counselor in the First Presidency; release to Elders E. Ray Bateman, and James Esdras Faust as Second Val R. Christensen, Keith Crockett, Counselor in the First Presidency. Merrill C. Oaks, Gordon T. Watts, and Those in favor may manifest it. Stephen A. West. Those opposed, if any, may mani- All who wish to join with us in doing fest it. so, please manifest it. Thank you. It is proposed that we sustain We also extend a release to the fol- Thomas Spencer Monson as President lowing as Area Authority Seventies of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; and express thanks for their diligent Boyd Kenneth Packer as Acting service: Juan A. Alvaradejo, Julio E.

22 television, Internet, and satellite to almost all corners of the earth. What Is Elder Uchtdorf and Elder Bednar, you have been sustained to fill the vacancies created by the deaths of Elder David B. Haight and Elder a Quorum? Neal A. Maxwell. As a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, I ELDER L. TOM PERRY welcome you with open arms as you Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles become part of this sacred calling which is ours. Of course, today we One of the greatest blessings one can receive miss our association with Elder Haight from being a bearer of the priesthood . . . is belonging and Elder Maxwell. Elder Haight has been sitting by my side in these con- to a priesthood quorum. ferences for the past 28 years. Elder Maxwell has been next to him for a number of years. How I wish I had the enthusiastic spirit of Elder Haight or organization of the Church were read the word power of Elder Maxwell to to the assembled people. These reve- express my feelings about this long lations set forth the order of the association I have experienced with priesthood and the duties of the offi- these two great Brethren. They have cers in the Church. Following this pat- added so much to my life. How I miss tern the Church organization of today their continued association! has been built. We have a rich tradition of the “According to previous command- work of the Twelve as we have trav- ment, the Prophet Joseph called upon eled throughout the world proclaim- the brethren present to know if they ing the gospel of Jesus Christ. For would accept himself and Oliver example, it was on Sunday, the 4th of Cowdery as their teachers in the June of 1837, that the Prophet Joseph things of the kingdom of God; and if Smith approached Heber C. Kimball they were willing that they should in the Kirtland Temple and whispered proceed to organize the church to him, saying, “Brother Heber, the according to the commandment of Spirit of the Lord has whispered to the Lord. To this they consented by me: ‘Let my servant Heber go to eing inspired of the Holy Ghost unanimous vote” (B. H. Roberts, England and proclaim my Gospel, and “ to lay the foundation thereof, A Comprehensive History of the open the door of salvation to that Band to build it up unto the Church, 1:196). nation’ ” (quoted in Orson F. Whitney, most holy faith. And thus we have the pattern Life of Heber C. Kimball [1945], 104). “Which church was organized and established in the very beginning. The account of Heber C. Kimball established in the year of your Lord “And all things shall be done by com- and Brigham Young leaving their eighteen hundred and thirty, in the mon consent in the church, by much homes for England certainly shows fourth month, and on the sixth day prayer and faith, for all things you the sacrifice they were willing to make of the month which is called April” shall receive by faith” (D&C 26:2). for the callings they had received. The (D&C 21:2–3). I find a special feeling surging account reads: It was on this day that Joseph through my whole being as I see the “September 14th, [1839], President Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and members hands raised to the square to sustain Brigham Young left his home at of the Smith and Whitmer families the leadership of this Church. Today Montrose to start on the mission to met in the home of Peter Whitmer Sr., two new members of the Quorum of England. He was so sick that he was in Fayette, Seneca County, New York. the Twelve Apostles were sustained unable to go to the Mississippi [River], After appropriate song and prayers, by the members of the Church here a distance of thirty rods, without assis- the revelations concerning the in the Conference Center and by tance. After he had crossed the river

NOVEMBER 2004 23 early Brethren. However, our assign- ment remains the same as that which was given by the Savior as He in- structed His called Twelve to “go ye therefore, and teach all nations, bap- tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:19–20). For you two new Brethren, I can promise you that there will be a new understanding of what it means to belong to a quorum. I wish the feeling and respect we have for our Council could be transported to every quo- rum in the Church. Would you dea- cons, teachers, priests, elders, and high priests quorums listen for a moment to what I believe is one of he rode behind Israel Barlow on his shouted: ‘Hurrah, hurrah for Israel.’ ” the greatest blessings one can receive horse to my house, where he contin- Sister Young and Sister Kimball came from being a bearer of the priest- ued sick until the 18th. He left his wife to the door and waved a farewell hood? That special blessing is belong- sick with a babe only three weeks old, which gave Brother Brigham and ing to a priesthood quorum. and all his other children were sick Brother Heber much comfort as they President Stephen L Richards, and unable to wait upon each other. continued “without purse or scrip” many years ago, gave us some won- Not one soul of them was able to go towards England. (See Life of Heber C. derful counsel on Church govern- to the well for a pail of water, and they Kimball, 265–66.) ment. His statement is as follows: were without a second suit to their The Bible Dictionary states that “The genius of our Church gov- backs, for the mob in Missouri had Apostle “means ‘one sent forth.’ . . . ernment is government through taken nearly all he had. On the 17th, The calling of an apostle is to be a councils. . . . I see the wisdom, God’s Sister Mary Ann Young got a boy to special witness of the name of Jesus wisdom, in creating councils: to gov- carry her up in his wagon to my Christ in all the world, particularly of ern his Kingdom. In the spirit under house, that she might nurse and com- his divinity and of his bodily resurrec- which we labor, men can get together fort Brother Brigham” (quoted in Life tion from the dead. . . . Twelve men with seemingly divergent views and of Heber C. Kimball, 265). with this high calling constitute an far different backgrounds, and under Heber C. Kimball’s family were also administrative council in the work of the operation of that spirit, by coun- ill. Charles Hubbard sent his boy with the ministry. . . . Today twelve men seling together, they can arrive at an a team and wagon to help them on with this same divine calling and ordi- accord. . . . I have no hesitancy in giv- their way. Elder Kimball records: “It nation constitute the Quorum of the ing you the assurance, if you will con- appeared to me as though my very Twelve Apostles in The Church of fer in council as you are expected to inmost parts would melt within me at Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” do, God will give you solutions to the leaving my family in such a condition, (“Apostle,” 612). problems that confront you” (in as it were almost in the arms of death. An Apostle today continues to be Conference Report, Oct. 1953, 86). I felt as though I could not endure it. I “one sent forth.” The conditions we And what are the great benefits asked the teamster to stop, and said face are different from those of the you will experience from belonging to Brother Brigham, ‘This is pretty early Brethren as we make our jour- to a quorum? Again from Stephen L tough, isn’t it; let’s rise up and give neys to fulfill our assignment. Our Richards. He said, “A quorum is three them a cheer.’ We arose, and swinging manner of travel to all corners of the things: first, a class; second, a frater- our hats three times over our heads, earth is very different from that of the nity; and third, a service unit” (in

24 Conference Report, Oct. 1938, 118). knowledge of the gospel of our Lord temporally, mentally, or spiritually. I see this genius so manifestly and Savior. The spirit of brotherhood should be apparent in the functions of the In our Quorum, we have a special the directing force in all the plans Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. We brotherhood. We are there to lift, and operations of the quorum. If this are a class as we study the doctrines inspire, and bless each other with the spirit be cultivated, wisely and per- of the kingdom together. Can you spirit of our calling. When one is bur- sistently, no other organization will imagine what a special experience it dened, there are 11 others anxious become more attractive to the man would be to be in a quorum meeting to help lift and share that burden. who holds the Priesthood” (Rudger and be taught gospel doctrine by At times we rejoice together in feel- Clawson, foreword to A Guide for Elders Ezra Taft Benson, Mark E. ings of accomplishment. We weep Quorums of the Melchizedek Petersen, LeGrand Richards, Howard W. together in times of sorrow. We never Priesthood [1930], 3; quoted in Hunter, Bruce R. McConkie, David B. feel as if we are facing a problem John A. Widtsoe, comp., Priesthood Haight, or Neal A. Maxwell? You will alone! There is always the counsel, and Church Government [1939], notice that I have used only those support, help, and encouragement of 135). We would encourage each Brethren who have completed our Quorum members. priesthood quorum in the Church their earthly ministry in order not From the book Priesthood and to cultivate such a brotherhood. to be selective among our current Church Government, we have this Finally, the only purpose for our Apostles. This same blessing can be statement on the brotherhood which Quorum is to be of service. Perhaps yours in each of your quorums. The should exist in every priesthood quo- our deep feelings of this responsibility words of the Apostles, past and pres- rum: “The Priesthood is a great could be characterized in an epistle ent, live in the scriptures, conference brotherhood, held together by the dated October 26, 1886, by Wilford addresses, Church magazines, devo- eternal and immutable laws that con- Woodruff, who was then serving as tionals, and so forth. They are avail- stitute the framework of the Gospel. President of the Council of the Twelve able to bring the power of the The feeling of brotherhood should Apostles: “I will say to the Apostles, doctrine of the kingdom into permeate the quorum. It should be our responsibility is very great. . . . your quorum’s class. Make of your the first concern of a quorum to help What manner of men ought we to quorum a class to increase your all members who may be in need be? The whole earth is ripening in

NOVEMBER 2004 25 iniquity, and the Zion of God should be prepared for the coming of the bridegroom. We should humble our- Faith and Keys selves before the Lord and be in a position to be filled with the spirit of ELDER HENRY B. EYRING our calling, with the Holy Ghost, and Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles with the revelations of Jesus Christ, that we may know the mind and will of God concerning us, and be pre- We have to know by inspiration that the priesthood keys pared to magnify our calling and bring are held by those who lead and serve us. That requires to pass righteousness, and be valiant the witness of the Spirit. in the testimony of Jesus Christ to the end. . . . There never was a time when the work of God required a more faithful testimony and labor from the will need it for courage to follow direc- Apostles and Elders than to-day” (“An tion to serve. He will need it for the Epistle,” Deseret News, 24 Nov. 1886, comfort that comes from trusting a 712). Make of each of your quorums a sealing power that binds forever. great service organization for the ben- Missionaries will invite investiga- efit of all your quorum members. tors to meet a bishop or branch presi- Now this word of warning from the dent today with the same intent. They scriptures: hope that the investigators will feel far “Wherefore, now let every man more than that they have met a nice learn his duty, and to act in the man or even a great man. They will be office in which he is appointed, praying that the investigators will feel in all diligence. a conviction that this apparently ordi- “He that is slothful shall not be nary man holds priesthood keys in counted worthy to stand, and he that the Lord’s Church. The investigators learns not his duty and shows himself will need that conviction when they not approved shall not be counted go into the waters of baptism. They worthy to stand” (D&C 107:99–100). will need it when they pay tithing. And so I say to you two Brethren n a chapel far from Salt Lake City, They will need that conviction when who have joined us in our Quorum, in a place where a member of the the bishop is inspired to give them a and to all of you brethren who belong IQuorum of the Twelve rarely goes, calling. They will need it when they to the priesthood of God, may God a father approached me. He led his see him presiding in the sacrament bless each of us in our calls to serve. young son by the hand. As they meeting and when he nourishes them May our faith strengthen as we serve reached me, he looked down at by teaching the gospel. in righteousness, faithfully keeping the boy, called him by name, and And so missionaries and fathers, the commandments. May our testi- said, nodding his head towards me, and all of us who serve others in the monies ever grow stronger as we seek “This is an Apostle.” I could tell by the true Church, want to help those we to find the fountain of eternal truth. sound of the father’s voice that he was love gain a lasting testimony that the May the brotherhood that exists in hoping his son would feel more than keys of the priesthood are held by the our quorum be of comfort and that he was meeting a dignified visitor. Lord’s servants in His Church. I speak strength and security as we pass He hoped that his son would feel a today to encourage all who labor to through this mortal part of our exis- conviction that priesthood keys were instill and strengthen that testimony. tence. May the joy of gospel service on the earth in the Lord’s Church. His It will help to recognize some ever abide in our hearts as we go for- son will need that conviction again things. First, God is persistent and ward to fulfill our duties and responsi- and again. He will need it when he generous in offering the blessings of bilities as servants in our Father in opens a letter from some future priesthood power to His children. Heaven’s kingdom, is my humble prophet he has never seen calling him Second, His children must choose for prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, to a mission. He will need it when he themselves to qualify for and receive amen. ■ buries a child or a wife or a parent. He those blessings. And third, Satan, the

26 enemy of righteousness, has from the beginning tried to undermine the faith necessary to receive the bless- ings made possible by priesthood power. I learned about those realities from a wise teacher nearly 25 years ago. I spoke in an ancient theater in Ephesus. Bright sunlight flooded the ground where the Apostle Paul had stood to preach. My topic was Paul, the Apostle called of God. The audience was hundreds of Latter-day Saints. They were arranged on the rows of stone benches the Ephesians sat upon more than a mil- lennium before. Among them were two living Apostles, Elder Mark E. Petersen and Elder James E. Faust. As you can imagine, I had prepared carefully. I had read the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles, both those of Paul and his fellow Apostles. I had read and pondered Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians. I tried my best to honor Paul and his office. After the talk, a number of people said kind things. Both of the living Apostles were generous in their comments. But later, Elder Faust took me aside and, with a smile and with softness in his voice, said, “That was a good talk. But you left out the most important thing you could have said.” I asked him what that was. Weeks later he consented to tell me. His Paul testified to the Ephesians that together in one all things in Christ, answer has been teaching me ever Christ was at the head of His Church. both which are in heaven, and which since. And he taught that the Savior built are on earth; even in him.”1 He said that I could have told the His Church on a foundation of apos- Paul looked forward to the min- people that if the Saints who heard tles and prophets who hold all the istry of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Paul had possessed a testimony of the keys of the priesthood. when the heavens would be opened value and the power of the keys he Despite the clarity and the power again. It happened. John the Baptist held, perhaps the Apostles would not of his teaching and his example, Paul came and conferred on mortals the have had to be taken from the earth. knew that an apostasy would come. priesthood of Aaron and the keys of That sent me back to Paul’s letter He knew that apostles and prophets the ministering of angels and of bap- to the Ephesians. I could see that Paul would be taken from the earth. And tism by immersion for the remission wanted the people to feel the value of he knew that they would, in some of sins. the chain of priesthood keys reaching great, future day, be restored. He Ancient apostles and prophets from the Lord through His Apostles wrote of that time to the Ephesians, returned and conferred upon Joseph to them, the members of the Lord’s speaking of what the Lord would do: the keys they held in mortality. Mortal Church. Paul was trying to build a tes- “That in the dispensation of the ful- men were ordained to the holy apos- timony of those keys. ness of times he might gather tleship in February of 1835. Priesthood

NOVEMBER 2004 27 keys were given to the Twelve Apostles matter how far from the prophet and has called. We must be worthy of the in the latter part of March 1844. the apostles. companionship of the Holy Ghost. The Prophet Joseph Smith knew That is not easy today. It was not And we need to pray for the Holy that his death was imminent. He easy in the days of Paul. It has always Ghost to help us know that men who knew that the precious priesthood been hard to recognize in fallible lead us hold this power. For me, such keys and the apostleship must not be human beings the authorized servants prayers are most often answered and would not be lost again. of God. Paul must have seemed an when I am fully engaged in the Lord’s One of the Apostles, Wilford ordinary man to many. Joseph Smith’s service myself. Woodruff, left us this account of what cheerful disposition was seen by It happened in the aftermath of a happened in Nauvoo as the Prophet some as not fitting their expectations disaster. A dam in Idaho broke on a spoke to the Twelve: for a prophet of God. June day. A wall of water struck the “On that occasion the Prophet Satan will always work on the communities below it. Thousands of Joseph rose up and said to us: Saints of God to undermine their faith people, mostly Latter-day Saints, fled ‘Brethren, I have desired to live to in priesthood keys. One way he does their homes to go to safety. see this temple built. I shall never live it is to point out the humanity of I was there as the people faced the to see it, but you will. I have sealed those who hold them. He can in that terrible task of recovery. I saw the upon your heads all the keys of the way weaken our testimony and so cut stake president gather his bishops to kingdom of God. I have sealed upon us loose from the line of keys by lead the people. We were cut off in you every key, power, principle that which the Lord ties us to Him and can those first days from any supervision the God of heaven has revealed to take us and our families home to Him from outside. I was in the meeting of me. Now, no matter where I may go and to our Heavenly Father. local leaders when a director from the or what I may do, the kingdom rests Satan succeeded in undermining federal disaster agency arrived. upon you.’ ”2 the testimony of men who had, with He tried to take over the meeting. Every prophet that followed Joseph Smith, seen the heavens With great force he began to list the Joseph, from Brigham Young to opened and heard the voices of things that he said needed to be President Hinckley, has held and exer- angels. The evidence of their physical done. As he read aloud each item, the cised those keys and has held the eyes and ears was not enough when stake president, who was sitting near sacred apostleship. they no longer could feel the testi- him, said quietly, “We’ve already done But just as in the time of Paul, the mony that the priesthood keys were that.” After that went on for five or power of those priesthood keys for us still in place with Joseph. ten minutes, the federal official grew requires our faith. We have to know The warning for us is plain. If we silent and sat down. He listened qui- by inspiration that the priesthood look for human frailty in humans, we etly as the stake president took keys are held by those who lead and will always find it. When we focus on reports from the bishops and gave serve us. That requires the witness of finding the frailties of those who hold directions. the Spirit. priesthood keys, we run risks for our- For the meeting the next day, the And that depends upon our testi- selves. When we speak or write to federal disaster official arrived early. mony that Jesus is the Christ and that others of such frailties, we put them He sat toward the back. The stake He lives and leads His Church. We at risk. president began the meeting. He took must also know for ourselves that the We live in a world where finding more reports, and he gave instruc- Lord restored His Church and the fault in others seems to be the tions. After a few minutes, the federal priesthood keys through the Prophet favorite blood sport. It has long been official, who had come with all the Joseph Smith. And we must have an the basis of political campaign strat- authority and resources of his great assurance through the Holy Ghost, egy. It is the theme of much television agency, said, “President Ricks, what refreshed often, that those keys have programming across the world. It would you like us to do?” been passed without interruption to sells newspapers. Whenever we He recognized power. I saw more. the living prophet and that the Lord meet anyone, our first, almost un- I recognized the evidence of keys and blesses and directs His people conscious reaction may be to look the faith that unlocks their power. through the line of priesthood keys for imperfections. It happened again when a man and which reaches down through presi- To keep ourselves grounded in the his wife arrived back in town just after dents of stakes and of districts and Lord’s Church, we can and must train the dam had broken. They didn’t go through bishops and branch presi- our eyes to recognize the power of to their home. They went first to find dents to us, wherever we are and no the Lord in the service of those He their bishop. He was covered in mud,

28 leading his members in mucking out citizens in the Lord’s kingdom, united spiritual assurance will come peace homes. They asked what he would in loving bonds. and power. You will know again that have them do. That happy condition will not last this is the Lord’s true and living They went to work. Much later, without a constant renewal of faith. Church, that He leads it through His they took a few minutes to check on The bishop we love will be released, as ordained servants, and that He cares their own house. It was gone. So they will the stake president. The Apostles about us. went back to work wherever their we followed in faith will be taken If enough of us exercise that faith bishop asked them to help. They home to the God who called them. and receive those assurances, God knew where to go to get the Lord’s With those continual changes will lift up those who lead us and so direction for service in His Church. comes a great opportunity. We can bless our lives and our families. We I learned then as I have since how act to qualify for the revelation that will become what Paul so wanted for the stakes of Zion become places of allows us to know that the keys are those he served: “built upon the foun- safety. They become like a great family, being passed by God from one per- dation of the apostles and prophets, united, caring for each other. It comes son to another. We can seek to have Jesus Christ himself being the chief by simple faith. that experience again and again. And corner stone.”3 By faith they are baptized and we must, in order to receive the bless- I testify, I know that Jesus Christ is receive the Holy Ghost. As they con- ings God has for us and wants us to our Savior and that He lives. I know tinue to keep the commandments, offer to others. that He is the rock upon which this, that gift becomes constant. They can The answer to your prayer is not His true Church, stands. In the name recognize spiritual things. It becomes likely to be as dramatic as it was of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ easier to see the power of God work- when some saw Brigham Young, as NOTES ing through the common people God he spoke, take on the appearance 1. Ephesians 1:10. 2. “The Keys of the Kingdom,” Liahona, Apr. calls to serve and lead them. Hearts of the martyred Prophet Joseph. 2004, 42; Ensign, Apr. 2004, 30. are softened. Strangers become fellow But it can be as sure. And with that 3. Ephesians 2:20.

NOVEMBER 2004 29 The constant, tender care and nour- ishment over time brings beautiful “Feed My Sheep” blossoms that are enjoyed by all who see them. ELDER NED B. ROUECHÉ Forgiveness is also a key part of Of the Seventy our return to happiness in our Father’s kingdom. At one time or another we may become offended We all have a great responsibility . . . that includes searching or wronged, and this can become a out those that are not with us and extending to them stumbling block that may take us our love and fellowship. away from our eternal goal, which is to return to the presence of our Heavenly Father. The Savior taught us the pattern for forgiveness as He considerably as he served faithfully. taught the Lord’s Prayer. He said, That branch was my last assignment “And forgive us our debts, as we for- in the mission before returning give our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). We home. When I was ready to leave the can see from this that to be forgiven, branch, this good brother came and it is conditional upon us to forgive put his arms around me, picked me others. This at times can be difficult up, and with a big hug swung me when the wounds are deep and have around. As he did, the tears rolled been endured for a long time. down his cheeks, and he said, “Thank However, in these latter days the you for coming and helping me.” Savior taught this principle even more Sometimes we just lose our focus clearly in these words: “My disciples, and drift away. Sometimes we have in days of old, sought occasion against our feelings hurt or some other prob- one another and forgave not one lem occurs. It all ends up the same, another in their hearts; and for this and we fail to claim the blessings that evil they were afflicted and sorely can be ours. Pride, distrust, deceit, chastened. discouragement, and many kinds of “Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye hen I was a young mission- sin can be removed by a change in ought to forgive one another; for he ary serving in Mexico, I was our hearts and by following the path that forgiveth not his brother his tres- Wcalled to serve as branch that the Savior has shown us. He says, passes standeth condemned before president in a small town in the state “Learn of me, and listen to my words; the Lord; for there remaineth in him of Veracruz. When my companion and walk in the meekness of my Spirit, the greater sin. I were reviewing the membership and you shall have peace in me” “I, the Lord, will forgive whom I records of our little branch, we found (D&C 19:23). The Savior has paid our will forgive, but of you it is required the record of a brother who had been ransom. He loves each of us and to forgive all men” (D&C 64:8–10). ordained a deacon but had not been reaches out to all who will come and When we follow this counsel, it will attending the meetings. follow Him. help us to overcome even the tough- We arranged to make a visit with There is a flame of desire for good est of trials. him. While visiting him, we invited deep within each of us. When that When we forgive and let go of that him to come to the meetings and flame is fed and nurtured with the which has weighed heavily on our serve in his priesthood responsibili- eternal truths of the gospel and the hearts and taken us off the path, a ties. The following Sunday he came testimony of the Spirit, it will respond great burden is lifted from our souls, but was not properly dressed and was and grow stronger and brighter until and we are free—free to move for- unshaven. So we taught him about it leads us to the fulness of truth. The ward and progress in our pursuit of being clean and neat when he offici- flame must be kindled by love and the gospel of Jesus Christ with an ated in those sacred priesthood tender care, then followed by con- increase of love in our hearts. We will responsibilities, which included pass- stant nourishing. It is like the gar- be blessed with an increase of enthu- ing the sacrament. His life changed dener who raises beautiful flowers. siasm for life, and our hearts will be

30 lighter. A surge of spiritual energy will propel us forward in joy and happi- ness. The problems of the past will be cast away like old, worn-out clothes. “And now I say unto you that the good shepherd doth call after you; and if you will hearken unto his voice he will bring you into his fold, and ye are his sheep” (Alma 5:60). It takes courage to come back when we have gotten off the Savior’s path. I promise you that when you exercise that courage and take the steps necessary, you will find that there will be an outpouring of love. There are many who will rejoice with you, and the hand of fellowship will be extended. You will be nurtured, and your heart will be filled with joy. “Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God; “For, behold, the Lord your Redeemer suffered death in the flesh; wherefore he suffered the pain of all men, that all men might repent and come unto him. . . . “And how great is his joy in the soul that repenteth!” (D&C 18:10–11, 13). We are all brothers and sisters, chil- dren of our Heavenly Father. We must reach out to those that for some rea- son have forgotten the path. We love you and invite you to come to the table and share in the spiritual ban- quet that the Lord has prepared for your joy and happiness. You will know of our Heavenly Father’s love as you searching out those that are not with them out and invite them to return come with a heart that is willing, obe- us and extending to them our love and enjoy full fellowship and the won- dient, and ready to partake and serve. and fellowship. They stood with us in derful message of the restored gospel He knows you; He knows your needs our first estate. They have made of Jesus Christ. Let them feel your and what faces you in the future. He sacred covenants through baptism, love and hear your testimony. Help has a perfect understanding of the and perhaps even in the temple. They them to recall the feelings that they feelings, suffering, and trials of each now need our help. once knew of the eternal truths that one of us. Because of that and the I pray that each of us can think will make their lives full of joy and infinite Atonement of His Son, Jesus about our families and our friends happiness. Christ, you will be able to face every and acquaintances who are not enjoy- May we be anxiously engaged in challenge that comes to you in your ing the full blessings of the gospel. gathering in His sheep who have gone sojourn here in this life. Think about those over whom you astray, so they can be safe in the fold. We all have a great responsibility have a responsibility because of your He “who is mighty to save” (2 Nephi that has been placed upon our shoul- calling. Ask yourself, “What can I do?” 31:19) is the Good Shepherd, and He ders by the Savior. He said, “Feed my Heavenly Father will guide you as you loves His sheep. I so testify in the sheep” (John 21:17). That includes seek His help. Then go and search name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 31 steeped in traditions and taught by the precepts of men. “I Stand at the As I have reflected on that moment, I ask myself the question “What is the reward for following the philosophies of men?” The answer Door, and Knock” seems clear. The philosophies die with their civilizations and are left in the ELDER RONALD T. HALVERSON dust of the past without hope of eter- Of the Seventy nal reward. I felt my friend had been touched by the Spirit of the Lord. Our I invite you to . . . do whatever it takes to earnestly seek truth, Heavenly Father never gives up on us. to know God the Eternal Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Savior said, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”3 Restoration, that God the Eternal But we must have the desire to Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, open the door, even if it shakes the appeared to Joseph Smith and that very foundation of our past beliefs through him the priesthood and and way of life. And this applies to authority of God were restored to less-active members as well as those the earth. I bore witness that I knew who are not yet members of the assuredly that what I had told him Church. I am reminded of the words was true. There was a long pause as I of a hymn: watched him ponder what I had said. Then, knowing that he was internaliz- Know this, that ev’ry soul is free ing what he had heard, I leaned over To choose his life and what he’ll be; and said: “You can know as surely as I For this eternal truth is giv’n: know that what I have borne witness That God will force no man to to is true. If you will ‘ask God, the heav’n. Eternal Father, . . . with a sincere heart, . . . having faith in Christ, [I He’ll call, persuade, direct aright, promise you that] he will manifest the And bless with wisdom, love, and few weeks ago I was in a social truth of it unto you, by the power of light, gathering with a friend of many the Holy Ghost. And by the power of In nameless ways be good and kind, years—a friend who recently the Holy Ghost [you] may know the But never force the human mind.4 A 1 retired, is well educated, and has been truth of all things.’ ” very successful. He is recognized in He continued to ponder. Unfor- Our Father in Heaven will never his country as the leader in his field. tunately we were interrupted by take away our agency. We must seek As we sat next to one another at din- the other guests and that precious after or desire to know our Father ner, he turned to me and asked about moment passed, but I knew that in and His Son, Jesus Christ. There is a the Church. This was somewhat sur- his heart he was still internalizing way by which all men can know prising because I was aware that he, what he had heard and felt. And I whether or not the teachings of Jesus like many in the world today, had hope that an opportunity will come Christ are true. As Jesus answered the rationalized God out of existence. His again, for there is so much more that skeptics at the Feast of Tabernacles, question was earnest. It was appar- I would like to share with him. I know He said, “If any man will do his will, ently something he had been thinking that he, like thousands or millions of he shall know of the doctrine, about because it came without any- others in the world today, is content whether it be of God, or whether I thing in the previous conversation with life as it is. As Nephi stated, they speak of myself.”5 that would have prompted it. have been pacified and lulled away President David O. McKay said that I responded by telling him of the “into carnal security.”2 They have been this “is the most simple test to give

32 knowledge to an individual of which the human mind can conceive. Doing a thing, introducing it into your very being, will convince you of whether it is good or whether it is bad. You may not be able to convince me of that which you know, but you know it, because you have lived it.”6 What is the Father’s will? “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints bears testimony to the world that the ‘will’ of God has been made manifest in this dispensation; that the principles of the gospel, the princi- ples of life, have been revealed. [That] they are in harmony with the principles which Christ taught in the meridian of time”7 and that “through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.”8 We live in a day of rationalization; people want to discount spiritual experiences, and they deny them- selves revelation. What happened to the seeking mind, the open mind, the inquiring mind—one seeking to know truth and knowledge? We tend to rely on our own rational powers. The Lord wants us to be sensitive to the Spirit, and He has given us a pattern: “And again, I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”10 Redeemer suffered death in the flesh; be deceived; for Satan is abroad in the To know God and His Son is eter- wherefore he suffered the pain of all land, and he goeth forth deceiving nal life. How can we learn to know men, that all men might repent and the nations— God if we are unwilling to seek after come unto him. “Wherefore he that prayeth, whose Him and do His will? Eternal life is “And he hath risen again from the spirit is contrite, the same is accepted what we should desire more than any- dead, that he might bring all men unto of me if he obey mine ordinances. thing else in this world. him, on conditions of repentance. “He that speaketh, whose spirit is One cannot study about Jesus “And how great is his joy in the contrite, whose language is meek and Christ and His teachings without soul that repenteth!”11 edifieth, the same is of God if he obey being affected and changed for good. Because of His great love for us, a mine ordinances.”9 As you develop a testimony of the divine love, He wants us to experi- Why is it important for us to seek Savior, you want to become like Him ence the kind of joy that He, Himself, to know truth? and to follow Him, and thus you enter experiences. He said, “These things Jesus, our Redeemer, just before the waters of baptism and make a have I spoken unto you, that my joy He crossed the brook of Cedron and sacred covenant with Him. might remain in you, and that your was betrayed by Judas, offered the glo- Our Savior is concerned for each joy might be full.”12 He will bless us rious prayer of intercession. He one of us: with a genuine peace—mentally, emo- prayed to the Father for us. He said, “Remember the worth of souls is tionally, physically, spiritually, econom- “And this is life eternal, that they might great in the sight of God; ically—“not [a peace] as the world know thee the only true God, and “For, behold, the Lord your giveth,”13 but a “peace . . . which

NOVEMBER 2004 33 passeth all understanding.”14 As one complies with the will of our Father in Heaven, there will come How Has spiritual, intellectual, and emotional growth and a reassurance through the Holy Spirit of truth. That reassurance and joy can grow to a perfect knowl- Relief Society edge. The Savior said, “If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon Blessed Your Life? knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things— BONNIE D. PARKIN that which bringeth joy, that which Relief Society General President bringeth life eternal.”15 To the less active, to the honest in heart, to my friend, and to the good Because Relief Society is divinely designed, it blesses people of the earth, I invite you to not only women but the family and the Church. awake out of complacency and foolish contentment and come unto Christ and do whatever it takes to earnestly seek truth, to know God the Eternal “I didn’t realize until later that the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. For sisters in our ward were her strength. “this is the way; and there is none She didn’t work in the Relief Society other way nor name given under leadership, but she always attended heaven whereby man can be saved in the meetings, and she loved her the kingdom of God.”16 friends there. I never thought of them I bear my witness that as you do as the ladies of Relief Society; they His will, you will feel close to Him were simply Mom’s sisters. They and begin to know what eternal joy is cared about her and loved her. She and that eternal life is attainable. You had all brothers and all sons. She will know that He does exist, that He found the sisters she wanted and is our Father, who lovingly reveals to needed in our ward. I know she us the reality of the Atonement and shared her feelings with them— the Resurrection and the divinity of feelings she couldn’t express any- this great work. To this I bear my where else. None of that seemed humble witness, in the name of Jesus ‘Relief Society’ to me then, but I Christ, amen. ■ understand now that it was.”1 ooking back on his life, a man This son’s memory of Relief NOTES recently shared this tender story Society touched my heart. Yes, Relief 1. Moroni 10:4–5. 2. 2 Nephi 28:21. Lwith me: “When I was growing Society’s members are women, but 3. Revelation 3:20. up my father was less active in the Relief Society does not bless only the 4. “Know This, That Every Soul Is Free,” Church. He struggled with alcohol women; it blesses each one of us. Hymns, no. 240. 5. John 7:17. and in his darkest moods could How has Relief Society blessed 6. “What Is Eternal Life?” Instructor, Mar. become harsh and accusing. He nor- your life? 1968, 97. 7. David O. McKay, Instructor, Mar. 1968, 98. mally didn’t object to Mom serving in I asked this question of President 8. Articles of Faith 1:3. the ward. She worked in Primary for Hinckley. He responded: “Relief 9. D&C 52:14–16. 38 years, and during much of that Society has blessed my family and the 10. John 17:3. 11. D&C 18:10–13. time she served in Young Women. family of my dear wife for some seven 12. John 15:11. She carried a heavy load. Her mar- generations. Since the earliest days of 13. John 14:27. riage was difficult, and I now know the Church, our mothers and daugh- 14. Philippians 4:7. 15. D&C 42:61. that she was discouraged at times, but ters have been taught of their obliga- 16. 2 Nephi 31:21. I didn’t know it then. tions to those in distress. They have

34 Clark Jr. observed that amidst these trials, Joseph Smith “turned to the sisters for the consolation, for the uplift of which he stood in such sad need at that time.”5 This is a moving and humbling thought: a prophet of God seeking the solace of his sisters— women to whom he had given the charge “charity never faileth.”6 To me this has echoes of those women who mourned with the Savior on Golgotha. Relief Society has blessed prophets’ lives. How has it blessed yours? President Boyd K. Packer has said, “The defenses of the home and family are greatly reinforced when the wife and mother and daughters belong to Relief Society.”7 Why? Because women are the heart of the home. My belonging to Relief Society has renewed, strengthened, and commit- ted me to be a better wife and mother and daughter of God. My heart has been enlarged with gospel under- standing and with love of the Savior and what He’s done for me. So to you, dear sisters, I say: Come to Relief been schooled in the finer points of the Lord in my life as I strive to keep Society! It will fill your homes with homemaking, encouraged in their my covenants, exercise charity, and love and charity; it will nurture and spiritual development, and guided in strengthen my family. strengthen you and your families. Your the realization of their full potential as So I ask again, how many ways has home needs your righteous heart. women. Much of this has taken place Relief Society blessed your life? During a recent assignment to in Relief Society and has then been Visiting the Missionary Training Peru, I visited the humble home of brought home to bless the life of each Center in Brazil, I said to the mission- Brother and Sister Morales. It was member of my family.”2 aries, “Tell me what you know about filled with love. They are the parents I have my own sweet memories of Relief Society.” One elder said, of three children and have been playing under my grandmother’s “Casseroles!” Another added, “My members of the Church for four quilting frames as she and her Relief mother and sister belong to it.” Finally, years. Sister Morales has learned Society sisters stitched. I was young, one declared, “It’s the Lord’s organiza- much in Relief Society. To help pro- but I knew that this was part of Relief tion for women.” He was right, but vide for their family and their mission- Society—blessing the lives of others. there’s more. Relief Society is “a ary son, she took in washing and I was mentored with love for Relief fundamental part of the gospel.”3 ironing. She helped with two children Society by my mother and my grand- The year 1842 was extremely diffi- of a neighbor who had to leave home mother. I love Relief Society—I think cult for the Prophet Joseph Smith. to work. She supported her husband, I always have. Relief Society has Former friends had turned on him. who is struggling with kidney failure helped me know the Savior and has Other enemies wanted to abduct and was serving in the elders quorum. strengthened my love for Him and him from Nauvoo and blunt the They discussed the Heber J. Grant les- my Heavenly Father. My belonging to growth of the Church. That same sons together in preparation for his Relief Society has provided me with year he organized the Relief Society teaching the lesson. many opportunities to learn, love, to care for the poor and needy and I asked her, “Are you a visiting serve, and be filled with the love of “to save souls.”4 President J. Reuben teacher?” With a smile on her face she

NOVEMBER 2004 35 responded, “Oh, yes, Sister Parkin. I “[Women] need to be together in young and old, into Relief Society— visit four sisters. Two are less active, an environment that bolsters faith.”9 one of the many miracles of the but I will love them back.” Relief Society provides such an Restoration. As we take these steps, Leaving their home, I noticed a environment. we will be overwhelmed with grati- hand-drawn sign above the door. It I thought of the stripling warriors tude for this sacred organization. asked, “Did you read your scriptures when I heard the son of a Relief Because Relief Society is divinely today?” Relief Society is blessing this Society sister say: “I have been blessed designed, it blesses not only women home, this ward, this neighborhood. by the faith and example of my but the family and the Church. I tes- How has it blessed you? mother. By the time I became a priest- tify that it is a fundamental part of the Belonging to Relief Society is criti- hood holder, I had learned as much Lord’s restored gospel because it cal for newly baptized sisters and, by about home teaching from my abides in charity—His pure love. Of extension, their families. While serv- mother’s visiting teaching efforts as by this I bear witness, in the name of ing with my husband as he presided my father’s example of home teach- Jesus Christ, amen. ■ over the England London South ing. . . . Her faith in the priesthood Mission, I met many new converts— affects my faith and strengthens my NOTES like Gloria, a single mother. When she desire to be [a] worthy . . . elder.”10 1. Personal correspondence. 2. Personal correspondence. joined the Church, she joined Relief Brothers and sisters, I am changed 3. Joseph Fielding Smith, “The Relief Society Society. It was a safe place where she and blessed, I am better because of Organized by Revelation,” Relief Society could ask questions about her new- Relief Society. And I believe we all are. Magazine, Jan. 1965, 4; emphasis added. 4. See History of the Church, 5:25. found faith. She heard women openly I pray that mothers and daughters 5. “The Prophet’s Sailing Orders to Relief share their experiences, which led her will participate with more vigor, that Society,” Relief Society Magazine, Dec. 1949, 797. to experiment upon the word of husbands will support their wives, 6. Moroni 7:46. God.8 She’s received her patriarchal and that both mothers and fathers 7. In Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 96; or blessing; she’s been to the temple; will prepare their daughters for Relief Ensign, May 1998, 73. 8. See Alma 32:27. she serves in the Church. I think of Society. I encourage priesthood lead- 9. Personal conversation. President Hinckley’s counsel to me: ers to shepherd God’s daughters, 10. Personal correspondence.

36 included are those “ ‘honorable’ members who are skimming over Securing Our the surface instead of deepening their discipleship and who are casually engaged rather than ‘anxiously engaged’ (D&C 76:75; 58:27)” (in Testimonies Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 89; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 65). ELDER DONALD L. STAHELI As I attended the funeral services Of the Seventy of Elder Neal A. Maxwell and Elder David B. Haight and listened to their Frequently reading, pondering, and applying the lessons well-deserved tributes, I more fully of the scriptures, combined with prayer, become internalized the extraordinary exam- ples of testimony and discipleship that an irreplaceable part of gaining and sustaining the lives of these two great brethren a strong, vibrant testimony. demonstrated. I kept pondering how their examples could help strengthen our testimonies and deepen our resolve to come closer to Christ. He is an outstanding athlete and These two great disciples of Christ popular among his friends at school. exemplify President Gordon B. However, he is only one of a very few Hinckley’s admonition to all of us LDS students in a large high school. when he said: “I have been quoted as Having raised my family in the mis- saying, ‘Do the best you can.’ But I sion field, I quickly related to Jim’s want to emphasize that it be the very challenges of wanting to stay true best. We are too prone to be satisfied to gospel principles while being with mediocre performance. We are accepted by good friends, yet friends capable of doing so much better” whose values and beliefs generally dif- (“Standing Strong and Immovable,” fered from his. Worldwide Leadership Training He was looking for further confir- Meeting, 10 Jan. 2004, 21). mation of his testimony of Jesus Christ Surely President Hinckley’s coun- and the Restoration of the gospel. sel and encouragement applies as Today I speak to Jim and many oth- much to the development and ers like him—young men and young strengthening of our testimonies of women across the world who are Jesus Christ as to anything else. ecently I had an engaging con- unsure about their testimonies but True testimonies bring the light of versation with a young man very much want to develop strong, the restored gospel of Jesus Christ R who was contemplating a mis- vibrant testimonies that will guide into our lives and focus all of us sion. As we talked, it became appar- them through the shoals of life that toward the same goal of returning to ent that he was struggling with his lie ahead. our Father in Heaven—yet our indi- decision, because he was questioning I also speak to those adults who vidual testimonies come through var- the strength of his testimony of the have not yet felt deeply the spirit of ied experiences and at different stages gospel of Jesus Christ. He wanted to the gospel in their lives. In the in our lives. know why he had not received more absence of a compelling testimony, Like Jim, as a young man I was clear answers to his prayers and study some have let their daily thoughts privileged to have “goodly parents” of the scriptures. and actions become so focused on (1 Nephi 1:1). They taught gospel This young man, whom I will call the things of the world that they have principles and values to our family by Jim, was raised in the mission field in minimized the influence of the light precept and example. As a young boy a home with loving parents who were of the gospel in their everyday lives. I thought I had a testimony. I believed! doing their best to teach gospel prin- And then as Elder Neal A. Maxwell Then came some personal spiritual ciples to their children. has so eloquently described, also experiences through faith, prayer,

NOVEMBER 2004 37 scripture study, and especially father’s give place for a portion of my words” forth fruit unto you” (Alma 32:43). blessings in our home that caused me (Alma 32:27). Think with me for a moment, to think more seriously about the Alma then went on to “compare the brothers and sisters, about what Alma principles I had been taught and word unto a seed.” He explained that is teaching us. believed—but even more deeply as hearts are opened, “it will begin to First, we must have a sincere desire about what I was beginning to feel. I swell within your breasts” (Alma to believe. Phrases such as “awake,” will be forever grateful to parents who 32:28). Alma then gave us the key to “arouse your faculties,” “experi- helped coach me through those pre- developing a successful testimony: ment,” and “exercise a particle of cious spiritual experiences. They have “But if ye will nourish the word, faith” are action words that suggest had a lasting impact on me and on yea, nourish the tree as it beginneth sustained effort on our part. the strength of my testimony. to grow, by your faith with great dili- His description of the swelling in I think Alma must have had us in gence, and with patience, looking for- our breast describes the feeling of the mind as he was teaching the Zoramites ward to the fruit thereof, it shall take Holy Spirit. And as Moroni promises, how to gain testimonies of the truth: root; and behold it shall be a tree “By the power of the Holy Ghost ye “But behold, if ye will awake and springing up unto everlasting life” may know the truth of all things” arouse your faculties, even to an (Alma 32:41). (Moroni 10:5). experiment upon my words, and exer- And then the promise! To keep that Spirit growing, Alma cise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye “Then, my brethren, ye shall reap says we must nourish it by “faith with can no more than desire to believe, the rewards of your faith, and your great diligence, and with patience.” let this desire work in you, even until diligence, and patience, and long- He then promises that the rewards ye believe in a manner that ye can suffering, waiting for the tree to bring of faith, diligence, patience, and

38 long-suffering will bring forth everlast- ing life (Alma 32:41; see also v. 43). Like Alma, latter-day prophets have been clear in their teachings of the things we need to do to develop and strengthen our testimonies. We have been sent here to work out our individual salvation through the tests and challenges of daily life. We cannot do that by relying heavily upon the borrowed light of someone else’s testimony. As we receive inspi- ration when we hear prophets, lead- ers, and peers bear their testimonies, those spiritual feelings should further enhance our desire to strengthen our own convictions. To my young friend, and to all wherever you may be, never give up on the Lord. The answer to your President Spencer W. Kimball Smith: “Draw near unto me and I will prayers may not be as clear or as reminded us of the importance of draw near unto you; seek me dili- timely as you would like, but keep consistent scripture reading when he gently and ye shall find me; ask, and praying. The Lord is listening! As you said, “I find that when I get casual in ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be pray, ask for help in understanding my relationships with divinity and opened unto you” (D&C 88:63). the promptings of the Holy Spirit. when it seems . . . no divine voice is Our prophet’s call to do our “very And then do your very best to be wor- speaking, . . . if I immerse myself in best” challenges each of us, individu- thy to receive those promptings. As the scriptures the distance narrows ally and within our families, to care- you recognize or feel the impressions and the spirituality returns” (The fully examine our personal lives and and whisperings of the Spirit, then act Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. then commit to change those things upon them. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 135). which will more fully assure our testi- Daily fervent prayers seeking for- The Savior taught, “Search the monies are strong and secure. giveness and special help and direc- scriptures; for in them ye think ye Strong testimonies become the tion are essential to our lives and the have eternal life: and they are they driving force for each of us to do nourishment of our testimonies. which testify of me” (John 5:39). “much better.” They become the When we become hurried, repetitive, The strong, unwavering testi- impenetrable bulwark of armor that casual, or forgetful in our prayers, we monies that so many of you wonder- protects us from the unrelenting tend to lose the closeness of the ful, faithful members of the Church things of the world. Spirit, which is so essential in the con- embrace have come from prayerfully I bear my witness that we have a tinual direction we need to success- following counsel from our prophets loving, caring Father in Heaven and fully manage the challenges of our and the scriptures. That same price- that He and His Beloved Son, Jesus everyday lives. Family prayer every less blessing is available to each of us Christ, appeared to the boy Joseph to morning and night adds additional who earnestly seek it. usher in the Restoration of the gospel blessings and power to our individual To my young friend Jim, and all in this last dispensation. prayers and to our testimonies. others who may have periodic con- Jesus Christ heads this Church. Personal, sincere involvement in cerns about the strength of their testi- President Gordon B. Hinckley is His the scriptures produces faith, hope, monies, know that you are loved and chosen prophet. and solutions to our daily challenges. watched over daily by your Father in May we have the courage and the Frequently reading, pondering, and Heaven. He will respond as you strive conviction to follow the prophet’s applying the lessons of the scriptures, to keep His commandments and counsel. As we do so, our personal combined with prayer, become an reach out for His loving hand. testimonies will be secure. That this irreplaceable part of gaining and sus- We all share the same promise that may be so I pray in the name of Jesus taining a strong, vibrant testimony. the Lord gave to the Prophet Joseph Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 39 my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me” (Alma 32:28). Pure Testimony Simply stated, testimony—real tes- timony, born of the Spirit and con- ELDER M. RUSSELL BALLARD firmed by the Holy Ghost—changes Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles lives. It changes how you think and what you do. It changes what you say. It affects every priority you set and Testimony—real testimony, born of the Spirit every choice you make. To have a real and confirmed by the Holy Ghost—changes lives. and abiding testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ is to be “spiritually . . . born of God,” to “[receive] his image in your countenances,” and to experi- and Redeemer; and that priesthood ence a “mighty change in your hearts” authority to administer the gospel of (Alma 5:14). Jesus Christ has been restored once Like almost everything else in life, again upon the earth. The profound testimonies grow and develop blessing of having a testimony of through experience and service. We these truths cannot be measured or often hear some members, and espe- ever taken for granted. cially children, bear their testimonies, Personal testimony is the founda- listing things for which they are tion of our faith. It is the binding thankful: their love of family, the power that makes The Church of Church, their teachers, their friends. Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints For them, the gospel is something unique in the lives of its members, that they are grateful for because it as compared with all other religious makes them feel happy and secure. denominations of the world. The doc- This is a good beginning, but testi- trine of the Restoration is glorious in monies need to be much more. They and of itself, but the thing that makes need to be anchored very early to the it powerful and imbues it with great first principles of the gospel. recently returned from an assign- meaning is the personal testimonies A testimony of the reality of ment in Asia where we met with of Church members worldwide who Heavenly Father’s love, of the life I faithful Saints and missionaries. accept the Restoration of the gospel and ministry of Jesus Christ, and of One meeting was in a metropolitan and strive to live its teachings every the effect of His Atonement on every area where we have approximately day of their lives. son and daughter of God brings 14,000 Church members living within A testimony is a witness or confir- about the desire to repent and live a population of nearly 21 million peo- mation of eternal truth impressed worthy of the companionship of the ple. If that same ratio were applied upon individual hearts and souls Holy Ghost. It also brings a confirma- to this meeting, in the Conference through the Holy Ghost, whose pri- tion to our soul of the Restoration of Center we would have only 13 mem- mary ministry is to testify of truth, the gospel in these latter days. Real bers of the Church scattered among particularly as it relates to the Father testimony of these precious truths this congregation of over 20,000. and the Son. When one receives a tes- comes as a witness by the Holy This experience impressed upon timony of truth through this divinely Ghost after sincere and dedicated me how deeply grateful we must all appointed process, it immediately effort, including teaching in the be to know that after ages of darkness begins to have impact on that per- home, prayer, scripture study, service and apostasy, Joseph Smith beheld a son’s life. According to Alma the to others, and diligent obedience to remarkable vision of the Father and Younger, “it will begin to swell within Heavenly Father’s commandments. the Son in the Sacred Grove. Clearly, your breasts; and when you feel these To gain and forever hold on to a tes- in our world today it is a rare and pre- swelling motions, ye will begin to say timony of gospel truths is worth cious thing to have a testimony that within yourselves . . . the word is whatever price in spiritual prepara- God our Heavenly Father lives; that good, for it beginneth to enlarge my tion we may be required to pay. His Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten My experience throughout the

40 Church leads me to worry that too many of our members’ testimonies linger on “I am thankful” and “I love,” and too few are able to say with hum- ble but sincere clarity, “I know.” As a result, our meetings sometimes lack the testimony-rich, spiritual under- pinnings that stir the soul and have meaningful, positive impact on the lives of all those who hear them. Our testimony meetings need to be more centered on the Savior, the doc- trines of the gospel, the blessings of the Restoration, and the teachings of the scriptures. We need to replace sto- ries, travelogues, and lectures with pure testimonies. Those who are entrusted to speak and teach in our meetings need to do so with doctrinal power that will be both heard and felt, lifting the spirits and edifying our peo- ple. You will remember at the heart of President Gordon B. Hinckley and President Thomas S. Monson greet members of King Benjamin’s powerful sermon to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. his people was his personal witness of the Savior, who at that time had yet to teach the words of Abinadi” (Mosiah testimony, not just speaking generally be born into mortality. 18:1). Many were converted to the about the things we are thankful for. At one point in the king’s sermon, gospel of Jesus Christ as a direct While it is always good to express love when he had just borne witness to result of Abinadi’s powerfully borne and gratitude, such expressions do the people, “The Spirit of the Lord testimony of the Savior, believed by not constitute the kind of testimony came upon them, and they were filled one soul, Alma. that will ignite a fire of belief in the with joy . . . because of the exceeding The Apostle Paul also bore fervent lives of others. To bear testimony is “to faith which they had in Jesus Christ testimony of Christ and converted bear witness by the power of the Holy who should come” (Mosiah 4:3). many through his missionary labors. Ghost; to make a solemn declaration And that is because the Spirit can- He did not shrink in bearing his testi- of truth based on personal knowledge not be restrained when pure testi- mony before King Agrippa. So mighty or belief” (Guide to the Scriptures, mony of Christ is borne. Thus, King were his words that even this influ- “Testify,” 241). Clear declaration of Benjamin’s people were so inspired ential representative of the Roman truth makes a difference in people’s by his testimony that their lives were Empire was moved to exclaim, lives. That is what changes hearts. changed right there, on the spot; and “Almost thou persuadest me to be That is what the Holy Ghost can con- they became as new people. a Christian” (Acts 26:28). firm in the hearts of God’s children. Remember also Abinadi and Alma. The lesson, I believe, is clear: hav- Although we can have testimonies Abinadi infuriated wicked King Noah ing a testimony alone is not enough. of many things as members of the with his courageous testimony of In fact, when we are truly converted, Church, there are basic truths we the Lord Jesus Christ. Eventually we cannot be restrained from testify- need to constantly teach one another this great missionary offered the ulti- ing. And as it was with Apostles and and share with those not of our faith. mate sacrifice for his witness and faith faithful members of old, so is it also Testify God is our Father and Jesus is but not before his pure testimony our privilege, our duty, and our the Christ. The plan of salvation is touched one believing heart. Alma, solemn obligation to “declare the centered on the Savior’s Atonement. one of King Noah’s priests, “repented things which [we] know to be true” Joseph Smith restored the fulness of of his sins . . . , [accepted Jesus as the (D&C 80:4). the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ, Christ,] and went about privately Again, please keep in mind that and the Book of Mormon is evidence among the people, and began to we are talking about sharing real that our testimony is true.

NOVEMBER 2004 41 Miraculous things happen when elder “never had been able to say Parley P. Pratt. When Parley first members join with missionaries and that he knew Joseph [Smith] was a encountered the Book of Mormon, share pure testimony with those who Prophet.” He would have preferred to Hyrum took him into his own home are not members of the Church. For just say a prayer and leave, but the cir- and spent the night teaching and testi- example, while many people were cumstances made that impossible. So fying to him. He bore witness of the touched by Alma’s testimony in the he started to speak, and “as soon as he prophetic mantle that rested upon land of Ammonihah, when Amulek got ‘Joseph’ out, ‘is a Prophet,’ was . . . Joseph and of the truthfulness of the stood and added his testimony to next; and from that, his tongue was Book of Mormon. Shortly thereafter Alma’s, “the people began to be loosened, and he continued talking Hyrum set aside his own needs and astonished, seeing there was more until near sun-down.” went with Parley to honor his request than one witness who testified” (Alma President Young used this experi- for baptism (see Autobiography of 10:12). The same thing can happen ence to teach that “the Lord pours Parley Parker Pratt, ed. Parley P. Pratt with us today. As we stand together out His Spirit upon a man, when he Jr. [1938], 35–42). the Lord will help us find many more testifies that [which] the Lord gives We may never fully comprehend or of His sheep who will know His voice him to testify of” (Millennial Star, be able to measure the far-reaching as we unitedly share our testimonies supplement, 1853, 30). effects of Hyrum’s one-on-one testi- with them. The Prophet’s brother Hyrum mony to Parley P. Pratt. In addition to Many years ago Brigham Young told understood this and testified fearlessly Parley’s faithful posterity, his apostolic of an early missionary in the Church of divine truth as it had been revealed witness and missionary service drew who was asked to share his testimony to his brother Joseph and confirmed countless souls into the kingdom of with a large group of people. According in his own heart. His testimony God. Interestingly, included among to President Young, this particular blessed the lives of many, including those who joined the Church as a direct result of his ministry in Canada were Joseph Fielding and his sisters, Mary and Mercy. After his first wife, Jerusha, died, Hyrum met and mar- ried Mary Fielding, and from their marriage came President Joseph F. Smith and countless other members and Church leaders. Now I realize that not all testimonies will return such a blessing as Hyrum’s did. Joseph Kimber, a humble new con- vert in Thatcham, England, bore his simple testimony to a fellow farm- hand. I believe Brother Kimber’s witness of Joseph Smith and the Restoration is what ignited the fire of belief in 17-year-old Henry Ballard’s heart and caused him to ask to be baptized. Generations of the Ballard family are the beneficiaries of that humble testimony. Members and missionaries in our day can have the experience of con- verting others by living our lives as best we can and being prepared “to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places” (Mosiah 18:9). A friend recently told me about being on a 90-minute bus ride in Brazil. He felt impressed to go

42 PRIESTHOOD SESSION 2 October 2004 to the back of the bus to speak to the young people who had been serving as guides for his group of business- Be Not Deceived men. An associate of his father fol- lowed him to the back of the bus and ELDER DALLIN H. OAKS heard his testimony of the truthful- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ness of the restored gospel. This man later said, “When I heard your testi- mony, I had the distinct feeling go The Holy Ghost will protect us against being deceived, through my whole body that these but to realize that wonderful blessing we must always do things were true.” He and his wife will the things necessary to retain that Spirit. soon be baptized. The missionaries are now prepar- ing to teach the lessons, not as memo- rized dialogue or a rote presentation; to go and many choices to make as but rather, they will outline gospel you seek to return to our Heavenly principles in an organized way, calling Father. Along the road there are many upon the Spirit to direct how they signs that beckon. Satan is the author communicate gospel truth to investi- of some of these invitations. He seeks gators, spirit to spirit and heart to to confuse and deceive us, to get us heart. Brothers and sisters, join on a low road that leads away from together with the missionaries in shar- our eternal destination. ing your precious testimony every day, In the beginning, when a powerful witnessing at every opportunity the spirit was cast down for rebellion, “he glorious message of the Restoration. became Satan, . . . the devil, the father The fire of your testimony is all that of all lies, to deceive and to blind you need in order to introduce the men, and to lead them captive at his gospel to many more of our Father’s will” (Moses 4:4). He and the spirits children. Trust in the Lord, and never who follow him are still deceiving the underestimate the impact your testi- world. Modern revelation declares mony can have upon the lives of oth- that “Satan hath sought to deceive ers as you bear it with the power of am grateful to speak to this world- you, that he might overthrow you” the Spirit. Doubt and fear are tools of wide audience of priesthood (see D&C 50:2–3). Satan’s methods of Satan. The time has come for all of us I holders. It is now 8:00 A.M. Sunday deception are enticing: music, movies to overcome any fear and boldly take morning in the Philippines, my home and other media, and the glitter of a every opportunity to share our testi- for the last two years. I send greetings good time. When Satan’s lies succeed monies of the gospel. to my beloved associates in that in deceiving us, we become vulnera- May the Lord bless you as you con- nation and to all of you. ble to his power. tinue to nurture your testimonies I assume there are no boys in Here are some ways the devil will through your prayers, your personal this audience, only young men who try to deceive us. God’s command- gospel study, and your acts of service. are holders of the priesthood. The ments and the teachings of His With great joy I humbly testify our Apostle Paul wrote that when he was prophets warn against each of them. Heavenly Father loves us, Jesus is the a child he understood as a child, but 1. One kind of deception seeks to Christ, Joseph Smith restored the ful- when he became a man he put away mislead us about whom we should ness of the everlasting gospel, and such things (see 1 Corinthians 13:11). follow. In speaking of the last days, the Book of Mormon testifies of You young men are doing the same, the Savior taught: “Take heed that no these truths. We are led by a living so I will speak to you as one man man deceive you. For many shall prophet today. And I pray that the speaks to another. come in my name, saying, I am Christ; Lord may bless you, my dear brothers and shall deceive many” (Matthew and sisters, as you teach and testify, I. 24:4–5). In other words, many will which I ask in the name of Jesus From your position on the road of seek to deceive us by saying that they Christ, amen. ■ life, you young men have many miles or their teachings will save us, so

NOVEMBER 2004 43 there is no need for a Savior or His them is addictive. Addiction is a con- he thought would help him forget gospel. The Book of Mormon dition in which we surrender part of some problems. Before he knew what describes this as “the power of the our power of choice. When we do was happening, he was addicted. Now devil, to lead away and deceive the that we give the devil power over us. he is not able to support his family, hearts of the people . . . to believe The prophet Nephi described where and he is ineffective at almost every- that the doctrine of Christ was a fool- this leads: the devil says, “There is no thing he tries to do. Alcohol governs ish and a vain thing” (3 Nephi 2:2). hell,” and, “I am no devil, for there is his life, and he cannot seem to break 2. Satan also seeks to deceive us none—and thus he whispereth in free of its grip. about right and wrong and persuade their ears, until he grasps them with 3. The prophet Nephi warns us that there is no such thing as sin. his awful chains, from whence there against another kind of deception: This detour typically starts off with is no deliverance” (2 Nephi 28:22). “And others will he pacify, and lull what seems to be only a small depar- If we choose the wrong road, we them away into carnal security, that ture: “Just try it once. One beer or choose the wrong destination. For they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, one cigarette or one porno movie example, a friend of many years told Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus won’t hurt.” What all of these depar- me that her husband, always a “good the devil cheateth their souls, and tures have in common is that each of kid” in high school, took a few drinks leadeth them away carefully down to hell” (2 Nephi 28:21). Those who fall for this deception may profess to believe in God, but they do not take His commandments or His justice seriously. They are con- fident in their own prosperity and conclude that God must have accepted their chosen route. “Yea, and there shall be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die; and it shall be well with us. “And there shall also be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry; nevertheless, fear God—he will justify in committing a little sin; . . . there is no harm in this; and do all these things, for tomorrow we die; and if it so be that we are guilty, God will beat us with a few stripes, and at last we shall be saved in the kingdom of God” (2 Nephi 28:7–8). Surely you have seen and heard these arguments, brethren. They will come at you in classrooms and hall- ways, in what you read, and in what you see in popular entertainment. Many in the world deny the need for a Savior. Others deny that there is any right or wrong, and they scoff at the idea of sin or a devil. Still others rely on the mercy of God and ignore His justice. The prophet said, “There shall be many which shall teach after this manner, false and vain and foolish doctrines” (2 Nephi 28:9).

44 The Apostle Paul gave pointed do in public. Perhaps they think no warnings against the “perilous times” one will ever know. But God always that would come in the last days. knows. And He has repeatedly “For men shall be lovers of their own warned that the time will come selves, . . . disobedient to parents, when “[our] iniquities shall be spo- unthankful, unholy, without natural ken upon the housetops, and [our] affection, . . . despisers of those that secret acts shall be revealed” (D&C are good, . . . lovers of pleasures more 1:3; see also Mormon 5:8; D&C 38:7). than lovers of God” (2 Timothy “Be not deceived,” the Apostle Paul 3:1–4). He also said that “evil men taught. “God is not mocked: for what- and seducers shall wax worse and soever a man soweth, that shall he worse, deceiving, and being deceived” also reap. For he that soweth to his (v. 13). In a moment I will discuss flesh shall of the flesh reap corrup- what Paul told young Timothy about tion; but he that soweth to the Spirit how to avoid this wickedness. shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting” The Apostle gave another warning (Galatians 6:7–8). against being deceived by the devil In other words, if we indulge in and his pawns: drugs or pornography or other evils have two texts. The first is what Paul “Know ye not that the unrighteous that the Apostle called sowing to the taught Timothy after giving him the shall not inherit the kingdom of God? flesh, eternal law dictates that we har- warning I quoted earlier. Continue in Be not deceived: neither fornicators, vest corruption rather than life eternal. the things you have learned and been nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor That is the justice of God, and mercy assured of, he wrote, “knowing of effeminate, nor abusers of themselves cannot rob justice. If an eternal law is whom thou hast learned them” with mankind, broken, the punishment affixed to that (2 Timothy 3:14). In other words, you “Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor law must be suffered. Some of this can have been taught righteousness and drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortion- be satisfied by the Savior’s Atonement, assured of its truth, so stay with it. ers, shall inherit the kingdom of God” but the merciful cleansing of a soiled Continuing, Paul reminded his young (1 Corinthians 6:9–10). sinner comes only after repentance friend “that from a child thou hast Be not deceived, brethren. Heed (see Alma 42:22–25), which for known the holy scriptures, which are the ancient and modern prophetic some sins is a prolonged and painful able to make thee wise unto salvation” warnings against thievery, drunken- process. Otherwise, “he that exercises through faith in our Savior (v. 15). ness, and all forms of sexual sin. The no faith unto repentance is exposed to Hold fast to the scriptures, whose deceiver seeks to destroy your spiritu- the whole law of the demands of jus- teachings protect us against evil. ality by all of these means. Paul warns tice; therefore only unto him that The parable of the ten virgins us against those who “lie in wait to has faith unto repentance is brought teaches that when the Lord comes in deceive . . . by the sleight of men, and about the great and eternal plan of His glory, of all followers of Christ cunning craftiness” (Ephesians 4:14). redemption” (Alma 34:16). invited to the wedding feast, only half Beware of the slick package and the Fortunately, repentance is possible. will be given entrance. The inspired glitz of a good time. What the devil For the most serious sins we need to explanation of this parable reveals our portrays as fun can be spiritually fatal. confess to our bishop and seek his second source of protection: loving help. For other sins it may be “For they that are wise and have II. sufficient for us to confess to the Lord received the truth, and have taken the As we look about us, we see many and to whomever we have wronged. Holy Spirit for their guide, and have who are practicing deception. We Most lying is of this sort. If you have not been deceived—verily I say unto hear of prominent officials who have deceived someone, resolve now to you, they shall not be hewn down and lied about their secret acts. We learn stop carrying the burden. Make it cast into the fire, but shall abide the of honored sports heroes who have right and get on with your life. day” (D&C 45:57). lied about gambling on the outcome The other half will be denied of their games or using drugs to III. entrance because they are not pre- enhance their performance. We see Now I wish to speak about how pared. It is not enough to have less well-known persons engaging in each of us can avoid being deceived received the truth. We must also evil acts in secret they would never on matters of eternal importance. I “have taken the Holy Spirit for [our]

NOVEMBER 2004 45 guide” and “not [be] deceived.” in the 46th section of the Doctrine that wonderful blessing we must How do we take the Holy Spirit for and Covenants: always do the things necessary to our guide? We must repent of our sins “That which the Spirit testifies retain that Spirit. We must keep the each week and renew our covenants unto you even so I would that ye commandments, pray for guidance, by partaking of the sacrament with should do in all holiness of heart, and attend church and partake of the clean hands and a pure heart, as we walking uprightly before me, consid- sacrament each Sunday. And we must are commanded to do (see D&C ering the end of your salvation, doing never do anything to drive away that 59:8–9, 12). Only in this way can we all things with prayer and thanksgiv- Spirit. Specifically, we should avoid have the divine promise that we will ing, that ye may not be seduced by pornography, alcohol, tobacco and “always have his Spirit to be with [us]” evil spirits, or doctrines of devils, or drugs, and always, always avoid viola- (D&C 20:77). That Spirit is the Holy the commandments of men. . . . tions of the law of chastity. We must Ghost, whose mission is to teach us, “Wherefore, beware lest ye are never take things into our bodies or to lead us to truth, and to testify of the deceived; and that ye may not be do things with our bodies that drive Father and the Son (see John 14:26; deceived seek ye earnestly the best away the Spirit of the Lord and leave 15:26; 16:13; 3 Nephi 11:32, 36). gifts, always remembering for what us without our spiritual protection To avoid being deceived, we must they are given” (vv. 7–8). against deception. also follow the promptings of that The Holy Ghost will protect us I will conclude by describing Spirit. The Lord taught this principle against being deceived, but to realize another subtle form of deception— the idea that it is enough to hear and believe without acting on that belief. Many prophets have taught against that deception. The Apostle James wrote, “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22). King Benjamin taught, “And now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them” (Mosiah 4:10). And in modern revela- tion the Lord declares, “If you will that I give unto you a place in the celestial world, you must prepare yourselves by doing the things which I have commanded you and required of you” (D&C 78:7). It is not enough to know that God lives, that Jesus Christ is our Savior, and that the gospel is true. We must take the high road by acting upon that knowledge. It is not enough to know that President Gordon B. Hinckley is God’s prophet. We must put his teachings to work in our lives. It is not enough to have a calling. We must fulfill our responsibilities. The things taught in this conference are not just to fill our minds. They are to motivate and guide our actions. I testify that these things are true, and I pray that we will do all that is necessary to avoid the deceptions of the devil, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

46 Sunday morning instead of making it two complete meals—24 hours—we The Blessings are depriving ourselves and our fami- lies of the choice spiritual experiences and blessings that can come from a true fast. of a Proper Fast If all we do is abstain from food and drink for 24 hours and pay our fast ELDER CARL B. PRATT offering, we have missed a wonderful Of the Seventy opportunity for spiritual growth. On the other hand, if we have a special I fear . . . that too many of us are either not fasting purpose in our fasting, the fast will on fast day or we are doing so in a lackadaisical manner. have much more meaning. Perhaps we can take time as a family before beginning our fast to talk about what we hope to accomplish by this fast. This could be done in a family home words, 24 hours; second, attending evening the week before fast Sunday fast and testimony meeting; and third, or in a brief family meeting at the time giving a generous fast offering. of family prayer. When we fast with For the Pratt family our regular fasts purpose, we have something to focus have always been from the Saturday our attention on besides our hunger. noon meal to the Sunday noon meal. The purpose of our fast may be That way we fast for two meals, a very personal one. Fasting can help Saturday evening and Sunday morning us overcome personal flaws and sins. meals. Although there is no Church It can help us overcome our weak- standard for fasting, except that it nesses—help them become strengths. should be for 24 hours and two meals, Fasting can help us become more we have found a spiritual advantage in humble, less prideful, less selfish, and attending fast and testimony meeting more concerned about the needs of toward the end of the fast. others. It can help us see more clearly For those who are physically able, our own mistakes and weaknesses and fasting is a commandment. Speaking help us be less prone to criticize oth- of our monthly fast day, President ers. Or our fast may have a focus on a rethren, I hope you noticed Joseph F. Smith said: “The Lord has family challenge. A family fast might this morning, as President instituted the fast on a reasonable and help increase love and appreciation BHinckley prepared to intelligent basis. . . . Those who can among family members and reduce announce the names of two new are required to comply . . . ; it is a the amount of contention in the Apostles, he spoke of fasting and duty from which they cannot escape; family, or we might fast as a couple to praying to know the Lord’s will. . . . it is left with the people as a mat- strengthen our marriage bonds. A pur- Fasting has always been a practice ter of conscience, to exercise wisdom pose of our fast as priesthood holders among God’s people. In our day it is a and discretion. . . . might be to seek the Lord’s guidance commandment given by the Lord to “But those should fast who can. . . . in our callings, as President Hinckley all members of the Church. In addi- None are exempt from this; it is has demonstrated, or we might fast tion to occasional special fasts that we required of the Saints, old and young, with our home teaching companion to might have for personal or family rea- in every part of the Church” (Gospel know how to help one of our families. sons, we are expected to fast once a Doctrine, 5th ed. [1939], 244). Throughout the scriptures the month on the first Sunday. We are I fear, brethren, that too many of term fasting is usually combined with taught that there are three aspects to us are either not fasting on fast day or prayer. “Ye shall continue in prayer a proper fast day observance: first, we are doing so in a lackadaisical and fasting from this time forth” is the abstaining from food and drink for manner. If we are guilty of taking our Lord’s counsel (D&C 88:76). Fasting two consecutive meals or, in other fast day for granted or simply fasting without prayer is just going hungry

NOVEMBER 2004 47 for 24 hours. But fasting combined thank the Lord for His help during for one meal; then as they have with prayer brings increased spiritual the fast and for what we have felt and turned 12 and received the Aaronic power. learned from the fast. Priesthood or entered Young Women, When the disciples were unable to In addition to a beginning and end- we have encouraged them to fast for cure a boy who was possessed of an ing prayer, we should seek the Lord two complete meals. evil spirit, they asked the Savior, “Why often in personal prayer throughout After chastising ancient Israel for could not we cast him out?” Jesus the fast. fasting improperly, the Lord, through responded, “This kind goeth not out We should not expect our young the prophet Isaiah, speaks in beautiful but by prayer and fasting” (Matthew children to fast for the recommended poetic language of a proper fast: 17:19, 21). two meals. But let us teach them the “Is not this the fast that I have cho- Let us begin our fasts with prayer. principles of fasting. If fasting is dis- sen? to loose the bands of wicked- This could be kneeling at the table as cussed and planned in a family set- ness, to undo the heavy burdens, and we finish the meal with which we ting, the small children will be aware to let the oppressed go free, and that begin the fast. That prayer should be that their parents and older siblings ye break every yoke?” (Isaiah 58:6). a natural thing as we speak to our are fasting, and they will understand If we fast and pray with the pur- Heavenly Father concerning the pur- the purpose of the fast. They should pose of repenting of sins and over- pose of our fast and plead with Him participate in the family prayers to coming personal weaknesses, surely for His help in accomplishing our begin and end the fast. This way, we are seeking to “loose the bands of goals. Likewise, let us end our fasts when they reach the proper age, they wickedness” in our lives. If the pur- with prayer. We could very appropri- will be eager to fast with the rest of pose of our fast is to be more effective ately kneel at the table before we sit the family. In our family, we have done in teaching the gospel and serving down to consume the meal with this by encouraging our children others in our Church callings, we are which we break our fast. We would between 8 and 12 years of age to fast surely striving to “undo the heavy

48 burdens” of others. If we are fasting and praying for the Lord’s help in our missionary efforts, aren’t we desiring Perilous Times to “let the oppressed go free”? If the purpose of our fast is to increase our ELDER CECIL O. SAMUELSON JR. love for our fellow man and overcome Of the Seventy our selfishness, our pride, and having our hearts set upon the things of this world, surely we are seeking to “break How grateful I am, in these perilous times, for the protection every yoke.” and guidance given to us by the sacred assurance that The Lord continues describing the Jesus Christ lives today. proper fast: “Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when hope or spiritual sustenance as we thou seest the naked, that thou cover strive individually and as families to him; and that thou hide not thyself accomplish the sacred purposes of from thine own flesh?” (Isaiah 58:7). mortal life for which we came to this It is truly a wonderful thing that earthly probation. Each of our circum- through our fast offerings today we stances is unique. We come literally can feed the hungry, shelter the from the four corners of the earth, homeless, and clothe the naked. and we also come from tremendously If we fast properly the Lord different families, backgrounds, chal- promises: lenges, opportunities, experiences, “Then shall thy light break forth as triumphs, and disappointments. the morning, and thine health shall Likewise, in common with all of spring forth speedily: and thy righ- the human family—everyone being teousness shall go before thee; . . . the progeny of our loving Heavenly “Then shalt thou call, and the Lord Father—we share vast congruence in shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he our DNA or genetic physical makeup, shall say, Here I am. . . . as well as the universally possible and “And if thou draw out thy soul to rethren, it is both comforting promised blessings and characteristics the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted and potentially worrisome to that identify our divine parentage and soul; then shall thy light rise in Bknow that we live in an age and spiritual potential. It is this special obscurity, and thy darkness be as the a time that was not only foreseen by blending of our common origins and noonday: the prophets of previous dispensa- characteristics and also of our unique “And the Lord shall guide thee tions but was also clearly a focus of attributes, experiences, and special- continually, and satisfy thy soul in their concerns and their aspirations. ized challenges that makes each of us drought, . . . and thou shalt be like The Apostle Paul said, “In the last days who and what we are. While we may a watered garden, and like a spring perilous times shall come” (2 Timothy have differences in what constitutes of water, whose waters fail not” 3:1), and then he went on to catalog special peril for us individually, we (Isaiah 58:8–11). and describe with remarkable accu- share much that establishes the apt It is my prayer that we can improve racy much that we currently see daily description of “perilous times” for all. our fasts so that we can enjoy these in the media, in advertisements for Paul, in describing our “perilous beautiful promised blessings. It is my entertainment, and almost every- times,” did not promise that things testimony that as we “draw near” to where in the world around us. As would necessarily get easier or neces- the Lord through our fasting and careful as we might and should be, sarily better. He did give counsel to prayer, He will “draw near” to us (see absolute avoidance of much of the those seeking comfort and assurance D&C 88:63). I testify that He lives, peril which is seemingly enveloping in the face of the deteriorating condi- that He loves us, and that He wants to us is at best difficult and often near tions of our day. Just as his prophecies draw near to us. In the name of Jesus impossible to avoid. or predictions were clearly accurate, Christ, amen. ■ Happily, we are not left without so is his direction to us remarkably

NOVEMBER 2004 49 relevant as well. Said he, “Continue we learn these things, but we are among his people” (Alma 7:7). . . . in the things which thou hast assured that they are true, knowing, Alma was speaking in his time learned and hast been assured of, as Paul said, “of whom [we have] specifically of the events of a few knowing of whom thou hast learned learned them.” decades hence when the Savior them” (2 Timothy 3:14). Another who was authorized to would be born into mortality. In this general conference, consis- assure those to whom he ministered Centuries have passed and Alma’s tent with the pattern covering the was Alma. As he expressed his pleas- prophecies have been largely fulfilled, entire history of the Church, we ure at the privilege of teaching and but the central fact of his estimation have learned and will learn of the testifying to the people of Gideon, he of the thing more important than all Restoration of the gospel in our day; was forthright, clear, and direct in his else is still absolutely true, completely of the remarkable clarity and testi- witness of the Lord Jesus Christ, who relevant, and fundamentally essential mony of the Lord Jesus Christ found was yet to come in His earthly min- for us today as well. It is that “the in the Book of Mormon; of the mis- istry. He expressed his delight at the Redeemer liveth.” sion and contributions of the Prophet general faith and faithfulness of this As Alma and “all the prophets who Joseph Smith and his successors in group of good people and promised have prophesied ever since the world the Presidency of the Church, includ- them that they would be the recipi- began” (Mosiah 13:33) have taught ing especially President Gordon B. ents of “many things to come” (Alma and testified of the coming of the Hinckley, who teaches and testifies 7:7). In the midst of his discourse, Messiah and His mission to redeem with such power, spirituality, and describing things yet to come, he His people, so do we join in bearing lucidity; and of the strength, comfort, said, “There is one thing which is of testimony of Him and His sacred and blessings that accrue from the more importance than they all— work “to bring to pass the immortal- presence of other living apostles and . . . the time is not far distant that ity and eternal life of man” (Moses prophets in our midst. Not only do the Redeemer liveth and cometh 1:39). Surely when we begin to

50 understand the magnitude of His world.’ (John 4:42.) Modern-day have eternal life if they continue sacrifice and service to us individually witnesses, Joseph Smith and Sidney faithful” (vv. 13–14). and collectively, we then cannot con- Rigdon, declared: ‘For we saw him, It is this knowledge and testimony sider anything else to be of more even on the right hand of God; and of the living Christ that allows us to be importance or to approach His we heard the voice bearing record continually responsive to the advice significance in our lives. that he is the Only Begotten of the and counsel of Peter, who said that For most of us, this understanding Father.’ (D&C 76:23.)” (“A Personal we must “be ready always to give an does not come all at once and likely Relationship with the Savior,” Ensign, answer to every man that asketh you will not be fully complete during our Nov. 1976, 59). a reason of the hope that is in you” mortal sojourn. We do know, how- In our own day, we have been (1 Peter 3:15). ever, that as we learn line upon line, promised that the Lord has many When we begin to really sense that our appreciation for the Savior’s con- gifts in store for “those who love this hope is real and is actually cen- tributions will increase and our [Him] and keep all [His] command- tered in Jesus, being made possible knowledge and assurance of their ments” and also those “that seeketh because of His love for us and espe- truthfulness will grow. so to do” (D&C 46:9). While not every cially His love of His Father, then we The Apostle Paul was forceful and gift of God is pledged to every per- can gratefully and individually pro- candid in much of his teaching and son, we have been assured that “to claim, using the words of a favorite preaching. Listen to these familiar every [person] is given a gift by the hymn, “I stand all amazed at the love words that may describe most of us in Spirit of God” (D&C 46:11). Jesus offers me” (“I Stand All our efforts and progression and yet Listen to these words from the Amazed,” Hymns, no. 193). Likewise, provide the counsel, encouragement, 46th section of the Doctrine and as our understanding unfolds, we are and witness that we so badly need: Covenants that address the question led to exclaim, “Then sings my soul, “When I was a child, I spake as a of the thing or gift of more impor- my Savior God, to thee, How great child, I understood as a child, I tance than any other: thou art! How great thou art!” (“How thought as a child: but when I “To some it is given by the Holy Great Thou Art,” Hymns, no. 86). became a man, I put away childish Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the How grateful I am, in these per- things. Son of God, and that he was crucified ilous times, for the protection and “For now we see through a glass, for the sins of the world. guidance given to us by the sacred darkly; but then face to face: now “To others it is given to believe assurance that Jesus Christ lives today, I know in part; but then shall I on their words, that they also might in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ know even as also I am known” (1 Corinthians 13:11–12). Many years ago, President James E. Faust gave this counsel to those still struggling to become fully convinced in their testimonies of Jesus Christ and His sacred mission and promises. Said he: “For those who have honest doubts, let us hear what eyewitnesses had to say about Jesus of Nazareth. The ancient apostles were there. They saw it all. They participated. No one is more worthy of belief than they. Said Peter: ‘For we have not followed cun- ningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and com- ing of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.’ (2 Pet. 1:16.) Said John: ‘For we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the

NOVEMBER 2004 51 desiring to receive instructions, and to keep the commandments of God, I The Key of the became a rightful heir, a High Priest, holding the right belonging to the fathers.”4 Anyone who is righteous and Knowledge of God desires to possess greater knowledge and to become “a greater follower of PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST righteousness” can, under the author- Second Counselor in the First Presidency ity of the priesthood, obtain a greater knowledge of God. The Lord tells us The key of the knowledge of God, administered by those who one clear way to do so, as given in the keep the oath and covenant of the Melchizedek Priesthood, Doctrine and Covenants: “If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation will enable us to come off as the sons of God. upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, . . . that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.”5 One might ask, “How do I become evening I would like to speak con- a greater follower of righteousness?” cerning that key. A righteous person is one who makes The greater priesthood administers and keeps gospel covenants. These the gospel and holds “the key of the are holy contracts,6 usually between mysteries of the kingdom, even the individuals and the Lord. Sometimes key of the knowledge of God.”1 What they include other persons, such as is the key of the knowledge of God, spouses. They involve most sacred and can anyone obtain it? Without the promises and commitments, such as priesthood there can be no fulness baptism, the conferral of the priest- of the knowledge of God. The hood, temple blessings, marriage, and Prophet Joseph Smith said that the parenthood. Many of the blessings of “Melchizedek Priesthood . . . is the Father Abraham come as the Holy channel through which all knowl- Ghost is poured out upon all people.7 edge, doctrine, the plan of salvation Any worthy man or woman who and every important matter is receives the Holy Ghost can actually revealed from heaven.”2 President become “a new creation.”8 Joseph F. Smith stated: “One who can To obtain the full portion of these rethren of the priesthood of truly affirm that Joseph Smith was a supernal blessings and come to a full God, I am again seated as I prophet of God, and Jesus is the knowledge of God, a man must enter deliver my message this Savior, has in his possession a prize into and keep the oath and covenant B 9 evening. As you are aware, I am work- beyond computation. When we know of the priesthood. President Marion G. ing through a temporary back prob- this we know God, and we have a key Romney insightfully pointed out: lem. Those of you who have had back to all knowledge.”3 “The only way a man can make the trouble will understand. Those of you Father Abraham recognized the maximum progress towards eternal who haven’t—just wait a while! Any value of this grand key as he recounted life, for which mortality is designed, is other explanation of what ails me is his experience: “I sought for the bless- to obtain and magnify the Melchizedek not true! ings of the fathers, and the right Priesthood. . . . It is of utmost impor- I humbly speak to you tonight whereunto I should be ordained to tance that we keep clearly in mind with a prayer in my heart that you administer the same; having been what the magnifying of our callings in may understand me by the power of myself a follower of righteousness, the priesthood requires of us. . . . It the Spirit. It is hard to imagine any- desiring also to be one who possessed requires at least the following three thing more important for us as great knowledge, and to be a greater things: priesthood holders to learn than the follower of righteousness, and to pos- “1. That we obtain a knowledge of key of the knowledge of God. This sess a greater knowledge, . . . and the gospel.

52 “2. That we comply in our per- As part of the oath and covenant of Eighth, they also shall be given all that sonal living with the standards of the the priesthood, the Lord makes sev- the Father hath.21 Those who receive gospel. eral promises to His faithful sons all that the Father hath can receive “3. That we give dedicated “which he cannot break.”13 First, the nothing more. service.”10 priesthood holders “are sanctified by You young men of the Aaronic Two covenants are to be made the Spirit unto the renewing of their Priesthood have been given great by each priesthood holder. The first bodies.”14 I think President Hinckley authority and responsibilities. Under is to be faithful unto the obtaining is a great example of this. He has the direction of the bishop, the of the Aaronic and Melchizedek been renewed in body, mind, and Aaronic Priesthood functions in at Priesthoods.11 The Aaronic Priesthood spirit in a most remarkable manner. least two ordinances that are directly trains and prepares the priesthood Second, “they become the sons of related to the Atonement. One is the holder for the greater duties of the Moses and of Aaron and the seed of sacrament, which is in remembrance Melchizedek Priesthood and prepares Abraham.”15 Third, they become “the of the Savior’s blood shed for our sins him to receive the blessings of elect of God.”16 As His agents, they and His body which He gave as a ran- the oath and covenant of the priest- carry forth this holy work in our time som for us.22 The second is baptism. hood. Holding both the Aaronic and on the earth. Fourth, “all they who Priests have authority to perform bap- Melchizedek Priesthoods is essential to receive this priesthood receive [the tisms for the remission of sins. The receive the full blessings that the Lord Lord].”17 Fifth, those who receive the Aaronic Priesthood is a very real has for His faithful sons. The second Lord’s servants receive Him.18 Sixth, power. One young man wrote this covenant as His agent in this holy those who receive the Savior receive of his experience in exercising this authority is to be faithful in magnifying God the Father.19 Seventh, they also power: one’s calling with total faith in God.12 receive the Father’s kingdom.20 “At one time I attended a ward

NOVEMBER 2004 53 were trusted with a vital mission— they were among those who shone the most brilliantly in priesthood service. “The secret was that the bishop called upon his Aaronic Priesthood to rise to the stature of men to whom angels might well appear; and they rose to that stature, administering relief to those who might be in want and strengthening those who needed strengthening. Not only were the other ward members built up but so were the members of the quorum themselves. A great unity spread throughout the ward and every mem- ber began to have a taste of what it is for a people to be of one mind and one heart. There was nothing inexpli- cable in all of this; it was just the proper exercise of the Aaronic Priesthood.”23 President Gordon B. Hinckley recently told the Aaronic Priesthood that those of you who live worthy lives can be blessed by the “protec- tion of ministering angels” and that you “have something magnificent to live up to.”24 What does it mean to be the seed of Abraham? Scripturally it has a deeper meaning than being his literal descendants. The Lord made a covenant with Abraham, the great patriarch, that all nations would be blessed through him.25 Any man or woman can claim the blessings of Abraham. They become his seed and heirs to the promised blessings by accepting the gospel, being baptized, which had almost no Melchizedek members. They were seriously called entering into temple marriage, being Priesthood holders in it. But it was to home teach—not just to be a faithful in keeping their covenants, not in any way dulled in spirituality. yawning appendage to an elder mak- and helping to carry the gospel to all On the contrary, many of its members ing a social call but to bless their the nations of the earth. witnessed the greatest display of brothers and sisters. To be empowered to “bear this priesthood power they had ever “Previous to this time I had been ministry and Priesthood unto all known. with four of these priests in a different nations,”26 a man must receive the “The power was centered in the situation. . . . They drove away every Melchizedek Priesthood with its bless- priests. For the first time in their lives seminary teacher after two or three ings. Then through faithfulness he they were called upon to perform all months. They spread havoc over the becomes an heir to the fulness of the duties of the priests and adminis- countryside on Scouting trips. But eternal life. For as Paul said, “And if ter to the needs of their fellow ward when they were needed—when they ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s

54 seed, and heirs according to the elbow, but my life was spared, and the and its members, but we will have to promise.”27 promises I was given have all been persist in righteousness and be “faith- As the seed of Abraham, we have fulfilled. ful in all things.”36 The key of the some obligations. We are commanded “Some would think that losing an knowledge of God, administered to come to Christ by doing “the works arm would be a terrible burden, but it by those who keep the oath and of Abraham.”28 These works include has been one of the greatest blessings covenant of the Melchizedek obeying God, receiving and keeping in my life. I learned that it is very Priesthood, will enable us to come priesthood and temple ordinances important to have challenges and to off as the sons of God. That we will and covenants, preaching the gospel, face up to them.” do so, I pray humbly in the name of building a family unit and teaching our Elder Dickson had always been Jesus Christ, amen. ■ children, and being faithful to the end. right-handed, and now he had to learn NOTES It is interesting that the Lord used to do everything left-handed. One 1. D&C 84:19. the word seed in His promise to struggle was learning how to tie his 2. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Abraham. It has a fuller meaning than ties. He said: “One Sunday morning Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 166–67. 3. In Brian H. Stuy, comp., Collected posterity because it means to multiply when I was in my bedroom with my Discourses Delivered by President Wilford the blessings of the covenant of tie in my hand, I thought, How am I Woodruff, His Two Counselors, the Twelve Abraham “unto all nations.”29 The going to tie this? I thought about get- Apostles, and Others, 5 vols. (1987–92), 2:355–56. Lord promised Abraham a posterity ting a clip-on tie. I thought about ask- 4. Abraham 1:2. “as innumerable as the stars” or “the ing Mom to help me. But I couldn’t 5. D&C 42:61. sand upon the seashore.”30 take her with me on my mission just 6. See Carlos E. Asay, “The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood,” Ensign, Nov. 1985, Abraham’s righteous posterity is to tie my ties. So I decided I had to 43–45. also privileged to be adopted into the learn how to do it myself. I finally fig- 7. See 3 Nephi 20:25–29. 8. See Teachings of the Prophet Joseph eternal family of Jesus Christ. This ured it out by using my teeth. I still do Smith,149–50. includes the right to receive eternal it that way, even after having tied it 9. See D&C 84:33–42. covenants in the temple by which, if thousands of times.”33 10. “The Oath and Covenant Which Belongeth to the Priesthood,” Improvement Era, June they are worthy, they will be organized We don’t know in detail all that is 1962, 416. and exalted in the eternal family of going to be required of humanity, of 11. See D&C 84:33. Christ.31 It also includes “the blessings the Saints of God in the uncertain days 12. See D&C 84:33. 32 13. D&C 84:40. of salvation, even of life eternal.” ahead. Everyday righteous living will 14. D&C 84:33. The patriarchal order runs from be increasingly difficult. In addition, 15. D&C 84:34. Abraham to Isaac and to Jacob. holders of the priesthood may well 16. D&C 84:34. 17. D&C 84:35. Through the line of the priesthood it have to meet some extra challenges in 18. See D&C 84:36. continues in our own day and time. safeguarding and providing for their 19. See D&C 84:37. 20. See D&C 84:38. Through the ages, blessings and families. As one world leader recently 21. See D&C 84:38. promises were given from the fathers pointed out, there will be “dangers 22. See Matthew 26:26–28; Joseph Smith to their faithful sons. A modern exam- common to us all. Today’s deadly Translation, Matthew 26:22–24. 23. Quoted in Victor L. Brown, “The Vision ple of this is taken from the life of threats come from rogue powers and of the Aaronic Priesthood,” Ensign, Elder John B. Dickson of the Seventy. stateless networks of extremists who Nov. 1975, 68. He recalls: have nothing but contempt for the 24. Quoted in Jason Swensen, “Priesthood Restored Directly from Heaven,” Church “When it was time for me to go on sanctity of human life and for the prin- News, 22 May 2004, 3. a mission, I was very excited to serve ciples civilized nations hold dear.”34 25. See Genesis 18:18; Galatians 3:8; 3 Nephi the Lord. Just before I was to leave, We can all expect to face trials. But 20:25, 29. 26. Abraham 2:9. however, I found out that I had bone great eternal promises are extended 27. Galatians 3:29. cancer. The chance of living long to those who persist in righteousness. 28. John 8:39; see also John 8:32–50. enough to serve a mission wasn’t very The Lord has given His word that “any 29. Abraham 2:9. 30. D&C 132:30. high. I had faith that the Lord would man that shall . . . fail not to continue 31. See Galatians 3:29. provide a way if He wanted me to go. faithful in all things, shall not be 32. Abraham 2:11. 33. “Friend to Friend,” Liahona, June 1996, My father gave me a blessing in which weary in mind, neither darkened, nei- F6–F7; Friend, Sept. 1995, 6–7. I was told that I would serve my mis- ther in body, limb, nor joint. . . . And 34. Colin Powell, “Of Memory and Our sion in Mexico, serve in the Church all they shall not go hungry, neither Democracy,” USA Weekend, 2 May 2004, 35 Internet, http://www.usaweekend.com. my life, and have a family. My right athirst.” I am optimistic about what 35. D&C 84:80. arm had to be amputated above the the future holds for the Lord’s Church 36. D&C 84:80.

NOVEMBER 2004 55 The Savior was ever up and about—teaching, testifying, and sav- Anxiously Engaged ing others. Such is our individual duty as members of priesthood quorums PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON today. First Counselor in the First Presidency In a proclamation of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles issued on April 6, There are quorum members and those who 1980, this declaration of testimony should be our quorum members who require our help. and truth was set forth: “We solemnly affirm that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is in fact a restoration of the table of the Lord. We well could pay Church established by the Son of heed to the Lord’s divine instructions God, when in mortality he organized when He declared, “Wherefore, now his work upon the earth; that it car- let every man learn his duty, and to act ries his sacred name, even the name in the office in which he is appointed, of Jesus Christ; that it is built upon a in all diligence.”1 He added: foundation of Apostles and prophets, “For behold, it is not meet that I he being the chief cornerstone; that should command in all things; for he its priesthood, in both the Aaronic that is compelled in all things, the and Melchizedek orders, was restored same is a slothful and not a wise ser- under the hands of those who held it vant; wherefore he receiveth no anciently: John the Baptist, in the case reward. of the Aaronic; and Peter, James, and “Verily I say, men should be anx- John in the case of the Melchizedek.”5 iously engaged in a good cause, and On October 6, 1889, President do many things of their own free will, George Q. Cannon expressed this plea: and bring to pass much righteousness; “I want to see the power of the “For the power is in them, wherein Priesthood strengthened. . . . I want y dear brethren, it is a they are agents unto themselves. And to see this strength and power dif- solemn and somewhat hum- inasmuch as men do good they shall fused through the entire body of the Mbling experience to stand in nowise lose their reward.”2 Priesthood, reaching from the head before you this evening and respond The sacred scriptures provide for down to the least and most humble to the invitation to teach and to testify you and me a model to follow when deacon in the Church. Every man concerning the sacred privilege which they declare, “Jesus increased in wis- should seek for and enjoy the revela- is ours to bear the priesthood of God. dom and stature, and in favour with tions of God, the light of heaven shin- I pray for your faith and your prayers God and man.”3 And He “went about ing in his soul and giving unto him in my behalf. doing good, . . . for God was with knowledge concerning his duties, Beyond those who hold the him.”4 concerning that portion of the work Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood I have observed in studying the life of God that devolves upon him in his who are in attendance this evening of the Master that His lasting lessons Priesthood.”6 here in this beautiful Conference and His marvelous miracles usually I share with you tonight two expe- Center or seated in locations world- occurred when He was doing His riences from my life—one which took wide, there are vast numbers of Father’s work. On the way to Emmaus place when I was a boy and the other priesthood bearers who, for whatever He appeared with a body of flesh and pertaining to a friend of mine who reason, have drifted from their duties bones. He partook of food and testi- was a husband and father of children. and have chosen to pursue other fied of His divinity. All of this took Not long after my ordination as a pathways. place after He had exited the tomb. teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood, I The Lord speaks rather plainly to us At an earlier time, it was while He was called to serve as president of the to reach out and rescue such individu- was on the road to Jericho that He quorum. Our adviser, Harold, was als and bring them and theirs to the restored sight to one who was blind. interested in us, and we knew it. One

56 day he said to me, “Tom, you enjoy I answered, “I’ll have him at quo- priesthood interview with the presi- raising pigeons, don’t you?” rum meeting this week.” dent of the teachers quorum every I responded with a warm, “Yes.” Then he reached up to a special two weeks. I owe a lot to that one- Then he proffered, “How would nest and handed me the one-eyed eyed pigeon. I owe more to that quo- you like me to give you a pair of pure- pigeon. “Keep her in a few more days rum adviser. He had the patience and bred Birmingham Roller pigeons?” and try again.” This I did, and once the skill to help me prepare for This time I answered, “Yes, Sir!” more she disappeared. Again the expe- responsibilities which lay ahead. You see, the pigeons I had were just rience: “Come on over, and we’ll see if Fathers, grandfathers, we have an the common variety, trapped on the she returned home.” Came the com- even greater responsibility to guide roof of the Grant Elementary School. ment as we walked to the loft: our precious sons and grandsons. He invited me to come to his “Congratulations on getting Bob to They need our help, they need our home the next evening. The following priesthood meeting. Now what are you encouragement, they need our exam- day was one of the longest in my and Bob going to do to activate Bill?” ple. It has been wisely said that our young life. I was awaiting my adviser’s “We’ll have him there next week,” I youth need fewer critics and more return from work an hour before he volunteered. models to follow. arrived home. He took me to his This experience was repeated over Now for the illustration pertaining pigeon loft, which was in the upper and over again. I was a grown man to those men whose habits and lives area of a small barn located at the rear before I fully realized that indeed include but little Church attendance of his yard. As I looked at the most Harold, my adviser, had given me a or Church activity of any kind. The beautiful pigeons I had yet seen, he special pigeon, the only pigeon in his ranks of these prospective elders said, “Select any male, and I will give loft he knew would return every time have grown larger. This is because of you a female which is different from she was released. It was his inspired those younger boys of the Aaronic any other pigeon in the world.” I way of having an ideal personal Priesthood quorums who are lost made my selection. He then placed in my hand a tiny hen pigeon. I asked what made her so different. He responded, “Look carefully, and you’ll notice that she has but one eye.” Sure enough, one eye was missing, a cat having done the damage. “Take them home to your loft,” he counseled. “Keep them in for about 10 days, and then turn them out to see if they will remain at your place.” I followed Harold’s instructions. Upon his release, the male pigeon strutted about the roof of the loft, then returned inside to eat. But the one-eyed female was gone in an instant. I called Harold and asked, “Did that one-eyed pigeon return to your loft?” “Come on over,” he said, “and we’ll have a look.” As we walked from his kitchen door to the loft, my adviser com- mented, “Tom, you are the president of the teachers quorum.” This, of course, I already knew. Then he added, “What are you going to do to activate Bob, who is a member of your quorum?”

NOVEMBER 2004 57 explain the change which comes into their lives. There is a desire to live better, to serve faithfully, to walk humbly, and to be more like the Savior. Having received their spiritual eyesight and glimpsed the promises of eternity, they echo the words of the blind man to whom Jesus restored sight: “One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”7 How can we account for these mir- acles? Why the upsurge of activity in men long dormant? The poet, speak- Fathers and sons from the Tao Yuan Taiwan Stake attend the priesthood ing of death, wrote, “God . . . touch’d session broadcast at a meetinghouse in Taiwan. him, and he slept.”8 I say, speaking of this new birth, “God touched them, along the Aaronic Priesthood pathway called to the Twelve, Shelley tele- and they awakened.” and also those grown men who are phoned me. He said, “Bishop, will Two fundamental reasons largely baptized but do not persevere in you seal my wife, my family, and me account for these changes of atti- activity and faith so that they might be in the Salt Lake Temple?” tudes, of habits, of actions. ordained elders. I answered hesitantly, “But Shelley, First, men have been shown their I not only reflect on the hearts and you must first be baptized a member eternal possibilities and have made souls of such individual men, but also of the Church.” the decision to achieve them. They sorrow for their sweet wives and He laughed and responded, “Oh, cannot really long rest content with growing children. These men await a I took care of that while you were in mediocrity once excellence is within helping hand, an encouraging word, Canada. I sort of snuck up on you. their reach. and a personal testimony of truth There was this home teacher who Second, other men and women expressed from a heart filled with love called on us regularly and taught me and, yes, young people have followed and a desire to lift and to build. the truths of the Church. He was a the admonition of the Savior and have Shelley, my friend, was such a per- school crossing guard and helped the loved their neighbors as themselves son. His wife and children were fine small children across the street each and helped to bring their neighbors’ members, but all efforts to motivate morning when they went to school dreams to fulfillment and their ambi- him toward baptism and then priest- and each afternoon when they went tions to realization. hood blessings had miserably failed. home. He asked me to help him. The catalyst in this process has But then Shelley’s mother died. During the intervals when there was been the principle of love. Shelley was so sorrowful that he no child crossing, he gave me addi- The passage of time has not altered retired to a special room at the mor- tional instruction pertaining to the the capacity of the Redeemer to tuary where the funeral was being Church.” change men’s lives. As He said to the held. We had wired the proceedings I had the privilege to see this mira- dead Lazarus, so He says to you and to this room so that he might mourn cle with my own eyes and feel the joy to me, “Come forth.”9 I add: Come alone and where no one could see with my heart and soul. The sealings forth from the despair of doubt. him weep with sorrow. As I comforted were performed; a family was united. Come forth from the sorrow of sin. him in that room before going to the Shelley died not too long after this Come forth from the death of disbe- pulpit, he gave me a hug, and I knew period. I had the privilege of speaking lief. Come forth to a newness of life. a tender chord had been touched. at his funeral services. I shall ever see, As we do and direct our footsteps Time passed. Shelley and his family in memory’s eye, the body of my along the paths which Jesus walked, moved to another part of the city. I friend Shelley lying in his casket, let us remember the testimony Jesus was called to preside over the dressed in his temple clothing. I read- gave: “Behold, I am Jesus Christ, Canadian Mission and, together with ily admit the presence of tears, tears of whom the prophets testified shall my family, moved to Toronto, Canada, gratitude, for the lost had been found. come into the world. . . . I am the for a three-year period. Those who have felt the touch of light and . . . life of the world.”10 “I am When I returned and after I was the Master’s hand somehow cannot the first and the last; I am he who

58 liveth, I am he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father.”11 There are quorum members and A Tragic Evil those who should be our quorum members who require our help. John Milton wrote in his poem “Lycidas,” “The hungry sheep look up, and are among Us not fed.”12 The Lord Himself said to Ezekiel the prophet, “Woe be to the PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY shepherds of Israel that . . . feed not the flock.”13 [Pornography] is like a raging storm, destroying individuals My brethren of the priesthood, the and families, utterly ruining what was once wholesome task is ours. Let us remember and never forget, however, that such an and beautiful. undertaking is not insurmountable. Miracles are everywhere to be seen when priesthood callings are magni- fied. When faith replaces doubt, when may be an instrument in the hands selfless service eliminates selfish striv- of God to bring some soul to ing, the power of God brings to pass repentance” (Alma 29:9). His purposes. We are on the Lord’s It is in that spirit that I speak to errand. We are entitled to the Lord’s you tonight. What I have to say is not help. But we must try. From the play new. I have spoken on it before. The Shenandoah comes the spoken line September issues of the Ensign and which inspires: “If we don’t try, then Liahona magazines carry a talk I gave we don’t do; and if we don’t do, then some years ago on the same subject. why are we here?” Brother Oaks has touched on it Let us, one and all, be doers of the tonight. word and not hearers only.14 Let us While the matter of which I speak follow the example of our President, was a problem then, it is a much Gordon B. Hinckley, the Lord’s more serious problem now. It grows prophet. increasingly worse. It is like a raging May we as did the Savior’s follow- storm, destroying individuals and ers of old, respond to the invitation, families, utterly ruining what was “Follow me, and I will make you fish- y dear brethren, it is good to once wholesome and beautiful. I ers of men.”15 That we may do so is be with you in this very large speak of pornography in all of its my prayer, in the name of Jesus Mpriesthood meeting. I sup- manifestations. Christ, amen. ■ pose this is the largest such gathering I do so because of letters that of priesthood ever assembled. What a come to me from broken-hearted NOTES 1. D&C 107:99. contrast with the occasion described wives. 2. D&C 58:26–28. by Wilford Woodruff when all of the I should like to read portions of 3. Luke 2:52. priesthood in all the world assembled one received only a few days ago. 4. Acts 10:38. 5. See “Proclamation,” Ensign, May 1980, in one room in Kirtland, Ohio, to I do so with the consent of the writer. 52–53. receive instruction from the Prophet I have deleted anything that might 6. Deseret Semi-Weekly News, 29 Oct. 1889, 5. Joseph. lead to disclosure of the parties con- 7. John 9:25. 8. Alfred, Lord Tennyson, In Memoriam We have heard excellent counsel cerned. I have exercised limited edito- A. H. H., section 85, stanza 5, line 4. tonight, and I commend it to you. rial liberty in the interest of clarity and 9. John 11:43. 10. 3 Nephi 11:10–11. As I offer concluding remarks I flow of language. 11. D&C 110:4. rather reluctantly speak to a theme I quote now: 12. “Lycidas,” line 125. that I have dealt with before. I do it in “Dear President Hinckley, 13. Ezekiel 34:2–3. 14. See James 1:22. the spirit of the words of Alma, who “My husband of 35 years died 15. Matthew 4:19. said: “This is my glory, that perhaps I recently. . . . He had visited with our

NOVEMBER 2004 59 and disdain of me. . . . “I could not even get into the car with him after that but walked around the town . . . for hours, contemplating suicide. [I thought,] ‘Why go on if this is all that my “eternal companion” feels for me?’ “I did go on, but zipped a protec- tive shield around myself. I existed for other reasons than my husband and found joy in my children, in projects and accomplishments that I could do totally on my own. . . . “After his ‘deathbed confession’ and [after taking time] to search through my life, I [said] to him, ‘Don’t you know what you have done?’ . . . I told him I had brought a pure heart into our marriage, kept it pure during that marriage, and intended to keep it pure ever after. Why could he not do the same for me? All I ever wanted was to feel cher- ished and treated with the smallest of pleasantries . . . instead of being treated like some kind of chattel. . . . “I am now left to grieve not only for his being gone but also for a relationship that could have been [beautiful, but was not]. . . . “Please warn the brethren (and sis- ters). Pornography is not some titillat- ing feast for the eyes that gives a momentary rush of excitement. [Rather] it has the effect of damaging good bishop as quickly as he could stranglehold on our marriage from hearts and souls to their very depths, after his most recent surgery. Then he early on. We had only been married a strangling the life out of relationships came to me on that same evening to couple of months when he brought that should be sacred, hurting to the tell me he had been addicted to home a [pornographic] magazine. I very core those you should love the pornography. He needed me to for- locked him out of the car because I most.” give him [before he died]. He further was so hurt and angry. . . . And she signs the letter. said that he had grown tired of living “For many years in our marriage What a pathetic and tragic story. I a double life. [He had served in many . . . he was most cruel in many of his have omitted some of the detail but important] Church callings while demands. I was never good enough have read enough that you can sense knowing [at the same time] that he for him. . . . I felt incredibly beaten her depth of feeling. And what of her was in the grips of this ‘other master.’ down at that time to a point of deep husband? He has died a painful death “I was stunned, hurt, felt betrayed depression. . . . I know now that I was from cancer, his final words a confes- and violated. I could not promise being compared to the latest ‘porn sion of a life laced with sin. him forgiveness at that moment queen.’ . . . And sin it is. It is devilish. It is but pleaded for time. . . . I was able “We went to counseling one totally inconsistent with the spirit of to review my married life [and time and . . . my husband proceeded the gospel, with personal testimony how] pornography had . . . put a to rip me apart with his criticism of the things of God, and with the life

60 of one who has been ordained to the holy priesthood. This is not the only letter I have received. There have been enough that I am convinced this is a very seri- ous problem even among us. It arises from many sources and expresses itself in a variety of ways. Now it is compounded by the Internet. That Internet is available not only to adults but also to young people. I recently read that pornography has become a $57 billion industry worldwide. Twelve billion of this is derived in the United States by evil and “conspiring men” (see D&C 89:4) who seek riches at the expense of the gullible. It is reported that it produces more revenue in the United States than the “combined revenues of all professional football, baseball and basketball franchises or the combined revenues of ABC, CBS, and NBC” (“Internet Pornography Statistics: 2003,” Internet, http://www.healthy mind.com/5-port-stats.html). It robs the workplace of the time and talents of employees. “20% of men admit accessing pornography at work. 13% of women [do so]. . . . 10% of adults admit having internet sexual addiction” (“Internet Pornography Statistics: 2003”). That is their admis- sion, but actually the number may be much higher. The National Coalition for the enough of the seriousness of the prob- you. You find yourself unable to stop Protection of Children and Families lem. Suffice it to say that all who are it. But you can dress properly and states that “approximately 40 million involved become victims. Children are seek shelter, and the storm will have people in the United States are sexu- exploited, and their lives are severely no effect upon you. ally involved with the Internet. . . . damaged. The minds of youth become Likewise, even though the Internet “One in five children ages 10–17 warped with false concepts. Continued is saturated with sleazy material, you [has] received a sexual solicitation exposure leads to addiction that is do not have to watch it. You can over the Internet. . . . almost impossible to break. Men, so retreat to the shelter of the gospel “Three million of the visitors to very many, find they cannot leave it and its teaching of cleanliness and adult websites in September 2000 alone. Their energies and their inter- virtue and purity of life. were age 17 or younger. . . . ests are consumed in their dead-end I know that I am speaking directly “Sex is the number 1 topic pursuit of this raw and sleazy fare. and plainly. I do so because the searched on the Internet” (NCPCE The excuse is given that it is hard Internet has made pornography more Online, “Current Statistics,” Internet, to avoid, that it is right at our finger- widely accessible, adding to what is http://www.nationalcoalition.org/stat tips and there is no escape. available on DVDs and videos, on tele- .html). Suppose a storm is raging and the vision and magazine stands. It leads I might go on, but you, too, know winds howl and the snow swirls about to fantasies that are destructive of

NOVEMBER 2004 61 self-respect. It leads to illicit relation- of your bishop and, if necessary, the When tempted we can substitute for ships, often to disease, and to abusive counsel of caring professionals. thoughts of evil thoughts of Him and criminal activity. Let any who may be in the grip of His teachings. He has said: “And if Brethren, we can do better than this vise get upon their knees in the your eye be single to my glory, your this. When the Savior taught the mul- privacy of their closet and plead with whole bodies shall be filled with light, titude, He said, “Blessed are the pure the Lord for help to free them from and there shall be no darkness in you; in heart: for they shall see God” this evil monster. Otherwise, this and that body which is filled with light (Matthew 5:8). vicious stain will continue through comprehendeth all things. Could anyone wish for a greater life and even into eternity. Jacob, the “Therefore, sanctify yourselves that blessing than this? The high road of brother of Nephi, taught: “And it shall your minds become single to God, decency, of self-discipline, of whole- come to pass that when all men shall and the days will come that you shall some living is the road for men, both have passed from this first death unto see him; for he will unveil his face young and old, who hold the priest- life, insomuch as they have become unto you” (D&C 88:67–68). hood of God. To the young men I put immortal, . . . they who are righteous To you deacons and teachers and this question: “Can you imagine John shall be righteous still, and they priests who are with us tonight, you the Baptist, who restored the priest- who are filthy shall be filthy still” wonderful young men who have to hood which you hold, being engaged (2 Nephi 9:15–16). do with the sacrament, the Lord has in any such practice as this?” To you President Joseph F. Smith, in his said, “Be ye clean that bear the vessels men: “Can you imagine Peter, James, vision of the Savior’s visit among the of the Lord” (D&C 133:5). and John, Apostles of our Lord, spirits of the dead, saw that “unto the To all of the priesthood the state- engaging in such?” wicked he did not go, and among the ment of revelation is clear and No, of course not. Now brethren, ungodly and the unrepentant who unequivocal: “The rights of the priest- the time has come for any one of us had defiled themselves while in hood are inseparably connected with who is so involved to pull himself out the flesh, his voice was not raised” the powers of heaven, and that the of the mire, to stand above this evil (D&C 138:20). powers of heaven cannot be con- thing, to “look to God and live” (Alma Now, my brethren, I do not wish to trolled nor handled only upon 37:47). We do not have to view sala- be negative. I am by nature optimistic. the principles of righteousness” cious magazines. We do not have to But in such matters as this I am a real- (D&C 121:36). read books laden with smut. We do ist. If we are involved in such behav- Now I know, my brethren, that not have to watch television that is ior, now is the time to change. Let this most of you are not afflicted with this beneath wholesome standards. We be our hour of resolution. Let us turn evil. I ask your pardon for taking your do not have to rent movies that about to a better way. time in dwelling on it. But if you are a depict that which is filthy. We do not Said the Lord: “Let virtue garnish stake president or a bishop, a district have to sit at the computer and play thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall or branch president, you may very with pornographic material found on thy confidence wax strong in the pres- well have to assist those who are the Internet. ence of God; and the doctrine of the affected. May the Lord grant you wis- I repeat, we can do better than priesthood shall distil upon thy soul dom, guidance, inspiration, and love this. We must do better than this. We as the dews from heaven. for those who so need it. are men of the priesthood. This is a “The Holy Ghost shall be thy con- And to all of you, young or old, most sacred and marvelous gift, stant companion, and thy scepter an who are not involved, I congratulate worth more than all the dross of the unchanging scepter of righteousness you and leave my blessing with you. world. But it will be amen to the effec- and truth; and thy dominion shall How beautiful is the life that is pat- tiveness of that priesthood for anyone be an everlasting dominion, and terned after the teachings of the who engages in the practice of seek- without compulsory means it shall gospel of Him who was without sin. ing out pornographic material. flow unto thee forever and ever” Such a man walks with unblemished If there be any within the sound of (D&C 121:45–46). brow in the sunlight of virtue and my voice who are doing so, then may How could any man wish for more? strength. you plead with the Lord out of the These supernal blessings are prom- May heaven’s blessings attend you, depths of your soul that He will ised to those who walk in virtue my dear brethren. May all of us reach remove from you the addiction which before the Lord and before all men. out to any who need help, I pray, in enslaves you. And may you have the How wonderful are the ways of our the sacred name of Jesus Christ, courage to seek the loving guidance Lord. How glorious His promises. amen. ■

62 NOVEMBER 2004 63 AINTS October 2004 S DAY - ATTER L Robert C. Oaks John H. Groberg Dieter F. Uchtdorf Dieter F. David A. Bednar M. Russell Ballard Joseph B. Wirthlin HRIST OF Second Counselor C President James E. Faust President Merrill J. Bateman ESUS J Henry B. Eyring Charles Didier President Gordon B. Hinckley President THE FIRST PRESIDENCY HURCH OF Jeffrey R. Holland 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 Robert D. Hales President Thomas S. Monson President Earl C. Tingey Boyd K. Packer Perry L. Tom Russell M. Nelson Dallin H. Oaks Richard G. Scott UTHORITIES OF A ENERAL G Keith K. Hilbig Adhemar Damiani Stephen B. Oveson W. Douglas Shumway Robert F. Orton Robert F. R. Conrad Schultz Ronald T. Halverson Ronald T. Darwin B. Christenson Dale E. Miller David R. Stone H. Bruce Stucki William R. Walker Ned B. Roueché H. Ross Workman H. Aldridge Gillespie Shirley D. Christensen (in alphabetical order) D. Rex Gerratt Robert S. Wood Robert R. Steuer Clate W. Mask Jr. H. Bryan Richards Craig C. Christensen Daryl H. Garn Gerald N. Lund Donald L. Staheli Richard H. Winkel Wayne S. Peterson Douglas L. Callister THE SECOND QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY James M. Dunn Spencer V. Jones Spencer V. Mervyn B. Arnold Robert J. Whetten Second Counselor Keith B. McMullin Dennis E. Simmons William W. Parmley William W. Parmley Dennis B. H. David Burton Presiding Bishop Presiding Steven E. Snow Neuenschwander Spencer J. Condie Walter F. González Walter F. First Counselor THE PRESIDING BISHOPRIC Richard C. Edgley John B. Dickson Christoffel Golden Jr. F. Burton HowardF. Jay E. Jensen Marlin K. Jensen . Child L. Whitney Clayton Gary J. Coleman John M. Madsen Richard J. Maynes Lynn A. Mickelsen Ronald A. Rasband Lynn G. Robbins Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. (in alphabetical order) W. Craig Zwick THE FIRST QUORUM OF THE SEVENTY Lance B. Wickman Donald L. Hallstrom Melvin Hammond F. Harold G. Hillam Gene R. Cook Quentin L. Cook Claudio R. M. Costa Robert K. Dellenbach Glenn L. Pace Bruce D. Porter Carl B. Pratt Bruce C. Hafen Carlos H. Amado Neil L. Andersen Monte J. Brough Sheldon F Kenneth Johnson W. Rolfe Kerr Kikuchi Yoshihiko Francisco J. Viñas 66 SUNDAY MORNING SESSION 3 October 2004

When in the right your heart Choose You confides. . . . Choose the right! There is peace in righteous doing. Choose the right! There’s safety for This Day the soul. Choose the right in all labors you’re PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON pursuing; First Counselor in the First Presidency Let God and heaven be your goal.5

The choices we make determine our destiny. Do we have a guide to help us choose the right and avoid dangerous detours? Positioned on the wall of my office, directly opposite my desk, is a lovely print of the Savior, painted by but as for me and my house, we will Heinrich Hofmann. I love the painting, serve the Lord.”1 which I have had since I was a 22-year- All of us commenced an awesome old bishop and which I have taken and vital journey when we left the with me wherever I have been spirit world and entered this often assigned to labor. I have tried to pat- challenging stage called mortality. We tern my life after the Master. Whenever brought with us that great gift from I have a difficult decision to make, I God—our agency. Said the prophet have looked at that picture and asked Wilford Woodruff: “God has given myself, “What would He do?” Then I unto all of His children . . . individual try to do it. We can never go wrong agency. . . . [We] possessed it in the when we choose to follow the Savior. heaven of heavens before the world Some choices may seem more was, and the Lord maintained and important than others, but no choice defended it there against the aggres- is insignificant. sion of Lucifer. . . . By virtue of this Some years ago I held in my hand agency you and I and all mankind are a guide which, if followed, will never made responsible beings, responsible fail in helping us to make correct y dear brothers and sisters, for the course we pursue, the lives we choices. It was a volume of scripture both within my view and live, the deeds we do.”2 we commonly call the triple combina- Massembled throughout the Brigham Young said, “All must use tion, containing the Book of Mormon, world, I seek an interest in your faith [this agency] in order to gain exalta- Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of and prayers as I respond to the tion in [God’s] kingdom; inasmuch as Great Price. This book was a gift from assignment and privilege to address [we] have the power of choice [we] a loving father to a precious daughter you. First, however, I should like to must exercise that power.”3 who followed carefully his advice. On extend a personal welcome to Elders The scriptures tell us that we are the flyleaf page, her father had written Dieter Uchtdorf and David Bednar, free to act for ourselves, “to choose in his own hand these inspired words: our new members of the Quorum of the way of everlasting death or the “To my dear Maurine, the Twelve Apostles. way of eternal life.”4 “That you may have a constant I have been thinking recently A familiar hymn provides inspira- measure by which to judge between about choices and their conse- tion in the choices we make: truth and the errors of man’s philoso- quences. It has been said that the gate phies, and thus grow in spirituality as of history turns on small hinges, and Choose the right when a choice is you increase in knowledge, I give you so do people’s lives. The choices we placed before you. this sacred book to read frequently make determine our destiny. In the right the Holy Spirit guides; and cherish throughout your life. Joshua of old declared, “Choose And its light is forever shining o’er “Lovingly your father, you this day whom ye will serve; . . . you, “Harold B. Lee”

NOVEMBER 2004 67 is the whole duty of man.”8 Second, “Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.”9 Third, from John: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”10 An earlier prophet, even Moroni, writing in what is now the Book of Mormon, counseled, “And now, I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written, that the grace of God the Father, and also the Lord In Korea, translator Park Hwan Soo voices the translation of a conference session, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, broadcast throughout the world. which beareth record of them, may be and abide in you forever.”11 As members of The Church of smother our dreams, cloud our vision, President David O. McKay coun- Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, our and impair our lives. The enemy’s seled: “ ‘The greatest battle of life is goal is to obtain celestial glory. voice whispers in our ears, “You can’t fought within the silent chambers of Let us not find ourselves as indeci- do it.” “You’re too young.” “You’re too your own soul.’ . . . It is a good thing sive as is Alice in Lewis Carroll’s classic old.” “You’re nobody.” This is when we to sit down and commune with your- Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. remember that we are created in the self, to come to an understanding You will remember that she comes to image of God. Reflection on this truth with yourself and decide in that silent a crossroads with two paths before provides a profound sense of strength moment what your duty is to your her, each stretching onward but in and power. family, to your Church, to your coun- opposite directions. She is confronted Mine was the privilege to know try, and . . . to your fellowmen.”12 by the Cheshire cat, of whom Alice rather intimately President J. Reuben The boy prophet Joseph Smith asks, “Which path shall I follow?” Clark Jr., who served for so many sought heavenly help by entering a The cat answers: “That depends years as a member of the First grove which then became sacred. Do where you want to go. If you do Presidency. As I assisted him in the we need similar strength? Does each not know where you want to go, it preparation for printing his monu- need to seek his or her own “Sacred doesn’t matter which path you take.”6 mental books, priceless lessons were Grove”? A place where communica- Unlike Alice, we all know where we learned. One day while in a somber, tion between God and man can go want to go, and it does matter which reflective mood, President Clark forth unimpeded, uninterrupted, and way we go, for the path we follow in asked if I could arrange for the print- undisturbed is such a grove. this life surely leads to the path we ing of a picture suitable for framing. In the New Testament we learn will follow in the next. The picture was to feature the lions that it is impossible to take a right Each of us should remember that of Persepolis guarding the ruins of attitude toward Christ without taking he or she is a son or daughter of God, a crumbled glory. President Clark an unselfish attitude toward men. In endowed with faith, gifted with wished to have printed with the pic- the book of Matthew, Jesus taught, courage, and guided by prayer. Our ture—between the decaying arches “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto eternal destiny is before us. The of a civilization that was no more—a one of the least of these my brethren, Apostle Paul speaks to us today as he number of his favorite scriptures, cho- ye have done it unto me.”13 spoke to Timothy long years ago: sen from his vast knowledge of holy When the Savior sought a man of “Neglect not the gift that is in thee.” writ. I felt you would wish to know his faith, He did not select him from the “O Timothy, keep that which is com- selections. There were three—two throng of self-righteous who were mitted to thy trust.”7 from Ecclesiastes and one from the found regularly in the synagogue. At times many of us let that enemy Gospel of John. Rather, He called him from among of achievement—even the culprit First, from Ecclesiastes: “Fear God, the fishermen of Capernaum. While “self-defeat”—dwarf our aspirations, and keep his commandments: for this teaching on the seashore, He saw two

68 ships standing by the lake. He Christ, the Son of the living God.”17 was gravely ill and preparing to pass entered one and asked its owner to Simon, man of doubt, had become from this life. Her illness required her put it out a little from the land so He Peter, Apostle of faith. Peter made his to leave her cherished home and might not be pressed upon by the choice. enter a hospital which could provide crowd. After teaching further, He said When the Savior was to choose a the care she needed. Her only child to Simon, “Launch out into the deep, missionary of zeal and power, He lived with her own family far away in and let down your nets.” found him not among His advocates the West. Simon answered, “Master, we have but amidst His adversaries. The expe- I attempted to comfort Sister toiled all the night, and have taken rience of Damascus’s way changed Davies, but she had present with her nothing: nevertheless at thy word I Saul. Of him the Lord declared, “He is the comfort she longed to have. A will let down the net. a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my stalwart grandson sat silently next to “And when they had this done, name before the Gentiles, and kings, his grandmother. I learned he had they inclosed a great multitude of and the children of Israel.”18 spent most of the summer away from fishes. . . . Saul the persecutor became Paul his university studies, that he might “When Simon Peter saw it, he the proselyter. Paul made his choice. serve his grandmother’s needs. I said fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Acts of selfless service are per- to him, “Shawn, you will never regret Depart from me; for I am a sinful formed daily by countless members your decision. Your grandmother man, O Lord.”14 of the Church. There are many which feels you are heaven-sent, an answer Came the reply, “Follow me, and I are freely given, with no fanfare or to her prayers.” will make you fishers of men.”15 boasting, but rather through quiet He replied, “I chose to come Simon the fisherman had received love and tender care. Let me share because I love her and know this is his call. Doubting, disbelieving, with you the example of one who what my Heavenly Father would have unschooled, untrained, impetuous made such a simple yet profound me do.” Simon did not find the way of the choice to serve. Tears were near the surface. Grand- Lord a highway of ease nor a path free A few years ago, Sister Monson and mother told us how she enjoyed from pain. He was to hear the rebuke, I were in the city of Toronto, where being helped by her grandson and “O thou of little faith.”16 Yet when the we once lived when I was the mission introducing him to each employee Master asked him, “Whom say ye that president. Olive Davies, the wife of and every patient in the hospital. Hand I am?” Peter answered, “Thou art the the first stake president in Toronto, in hand, they walked the halls, and

NOVEMBER 2004 69 during the night he was close by. Olive Davies has passed on to her reward, there to meet her faithful Finding Faith in the husband and together continue an eternal journey. In a grandson’s heart there will ever remain those words, “Choose the right when a choice is Lord Jesus Christ placed before you. In the right the Holy Spirit guides.”19 ELDER ROBERT D. HALES Such are foundation stones in build- Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ing one’s personal temple. As the Apostle Paul counseled, “Know ye not Only faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His Atonement that ye are the temple of God, and that can bring us peace, hope, and understanding. the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?”20 May I leave with you today a simple yet far-reaching formula to guide you in the choices of life: Fill your minds with truth. eternal life if they continue faithful.”3 Fill your hearts with love. From the beginning of time, Fill your lives with service. prophets have known that Jesus By doing so, may we one day hear Christ is the Son of God, of His mortal the plaudit from our Lord and Savior, mission, and of His Atonement for all “Well done, good and faithful servant; mankind. Sacred records give the thou hast been faithful over a few prophecies of thousands of years, not things, I will make thee ruler over only of the first coming of our Savior many things: enter thou into the joy but also of the Second Coming—a of thy lord.”21 glorious day that will most assuredly In the name of Jesus Christ, come. amen. ■ If we had lived in the days of these prophets of old, would we have NOTES believed on their words? Would we 1. Joshua 24:15. 2. In Brian H. Stuy, comp., Collected have had faith in the coming of our Discourses Delivered by President Wilford Savior? Woodruff, His Two Counselors, the Twelve In ancient America, Samuel the Apostles, and Others, 5 vols. (1987–92), 1:341. elieving in the Savior and His Lamanite prophesied that on the 3. Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. mission is so essential that it is night of the Savior’s birth “there Widtsoe (1954), 54. 4. 2 Nephi 10:23. the first principle of the gospel: [would] be great lights in heaven, . . . B 1 5. Joseph L. Townsend (1849–1942), “Choose “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.” What insomuch that it shall appear unto the Right,” Hymns, no. 239. is faith? In his epistle to the Hebrews man as if it was day.”4 6. Adapted from Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1992), 76. in the New Testament, the Apostle Many believed Samuel and went to 7. 1 Timothy 4:14; 6:20. Paul taught that “faith is the substance find Nephi, confessed their sins, 8. Ecclesiastes 12:13. of things hoped for, the evidence of repented, and were baptized. “And 9. Ecclesiastes 1:2. 2 10. John 17:3. things not seen.” And how do we angels did appear unto [them], and 11. Ether 12:41. gain faith? How do we gain evidence did declare unto them glad tidings of 12. In Conference Report, Apr. 1967, 84–85; of our Savior, whom we have not great joy.”5 or Improvement Era, June 1967, 80. 13. Matthew 25:40. seen? The scriptures teach us: But for the most part, the Nephites 14. Luke 5:4–6, 8. “To some it is given by the Holy “harden[ed] their hearts”6 and 15. Matthew 4:19. 16. Matthew 14:31. Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the became blind to the “signs and won- 17. Matthew 16:15, 16. Son of God, and that he was crucified ders” of the times. These signs were 18. Acts 9:15. for the sins of the world. given so “that [the people] might 19. Hymns, no. 239. 20. 1 Corinthians 3:16. “To others it is given to believe on know that the Christ must shortly 21. Matthew 25:23. their words, that they also might have come.”7 But instead of heeding them,

70 the Nephites “depend[ed] upon their own . . . wisdom, saying: Some things [the believers] may have guessed right, . . . [but] it is not reasonable that such a being as a Christ shall come.”8 In those days as in ours, some naysayers, called anti-Christs, con- vinced others that there was no need for a Savior and His Atonement. When Samuel’s prophecy was finally fulfilled and there was a “day and a night and a day, as if it were one day,”9 what joy must have filled the hearts of those who had believed in the prophets! “It had come to pass, yea, all things, every whit, according to the words of the prophets. And it came to pass also that a new star did appear, according to the word.”10 Those who believed on the words of the prophets recognized the Savior throughout His life and ministry and were blessed to follow Him. But some- times the faith of even the most devoted followers was tested. After the Crucifixion Thomas heard his brethren testify that the Savior had risen from the tomb. But instead of believing their words, Thomas declared, “Except I shall see . . . , I will not believe.”11 Later this beloved Apostle was given marveling together. And there He many prophecies yet to be fulfilled! In the opportunity to touch the prints of appeared to them, saying: this and other conferences, we hear the nails in the Savior’s hands and con- “Behold, I am Jesus Christ, whom living prophets prophesy and testify fessed, “My Lord and my God.”12 The the prophets testified shall come into of Christ’s Second Coming. They also Savior then lovingly taught him as He the world. witness of the signs and wonders all has taught all of us what it means to “. . . I have drunk out of that bitter about us, telling us that Christ will have faith: “Because thou hast seen cup which the Father hath given me, surely come again. Are we choosing me, thou hast believed: blessed are and have glorified the Father in taking to believe their words? Or despite they that have not seen, and yet have upon me the sins of the world. . . . their witnesses and warnings, are we believed.”13 “And it came to pass that when waiting for evidence—are we “walk- Believers on the American conti- Jesus had spoken these words the ing in darkness at noon-day,”19 refus- nent faced similar tests of faith. As whole multitude fell to the earth; for ing to see by the light of modern Samuel had prophesied, there were they remembered that it had been prophecy, and denying that the Light great “thunderings and lightnings,”14 prophesied among them that Christ of the World will return to rule and and darkness covered “the whole should show himself unto them after reign among us? earth for the space of three days.”15 his ascension into heaven.”18 Throughout the course of my life, I But those who had “received the Brothers and sisters, the prophe- have known many good and generous prophets and stoned them not”16 cies of Christ’s first coming were ful- people who adhere to Christian val- did not fear or flee. They recognized filled, “every whit.” As a result, many ues. However, some lack faith that He this was “the sign [that] had been throughout the world believe that the lives, that He is the Savior of the given concerning [the Savior’s] Savior did come and did live in the world, and that His Church has been death”17 and gathered to the temple, meridian of time. But there are still restored to the earth. Because they

NOVEMBER 2004 71 he himself stood before his Maker. To use Enos’s words, “My soul hun- gered.”25 By this intense spiritual appetite, Enos qualified himself to receive the Savior’s promise: “Blessed are all they who do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled with the Holy Ghost.”26 Fourth, Enos obeyed the commandments of God, which enabled him to be recep- tive to the Spirit of the Holy Ghost. Fifth, Enos records, “I kneeled down before my Maker, and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul; and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens.”27 It wasn’t easy. Faith did not come quickly. In fact, Enos charac- terized his experience in prayer as a “wrestle which [he] had before God.”28 But faith did come. By the power of the Holy Ghost, he did receive a witness for himself. We cannot find Enos-like faith without our own wrestle before God in prayer. I testify that the reward is worth the effort. Remember the pat- do not believe in the words of the they alone could transform you. We tern: (1) hear the word of God, spo- prophets, they miss the joy of the must do our part. Or as the Savior ken and written by His servants; gospel and its saving ordinances in Himself said, “He that hath ears to (2) let that word sink deep into your their lives. hear, let him hear.”21 In other words, heart; (3) hunger in your soul for I have a dear friend who, one day hearing requires an active effort. “Faith righteousness; (4) obediently follow not long ago in a moment of broth- without works is dead.”22 It means tak- gospel laws, ordinances, and erly tenderness, asked, “Elder Hales, ing seriously what is taught, consider- covenants; and (5) raise your voice in I want to believe. I’ve always wanted ing it carefully, studying it out in our mighty prayer and supplication, ask- to believe, but how do I do it?” This minds. As the prophet Enos learned, it ing in faith to know that Jesus Christ morning I desire to answer that means letting others’ testimonies of is our Savior. I promise that if you do question. the gospel “[sink] deep into [our] these things sincerely and unceas- The Apostle Paul wrote to the heart[s].”23 Let us review some of the ingly, the words Christ spoke to His Romans, “Faith cometh by hearing, elements of Enos’s profound, faith- disciples will be fulfilled in your life: and hearing by the word of God.”20 building experience: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, The very fact that you are viewing, lis- First, Enos heard the gospel truths and ye shall find; knock, and it shall tening to, or reading the proceedings from his father, just as you are hearing be opened unto you.”29 of this conference means that you are them in your families and in this con- Once we find the beginnings of hearing God’s word. The first step to ference. Second, he let his father’s our faith in Jesus, our Heavenly finding faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is teachings about “eternal life, and the Father allows our faith to be strength- to let His word—spoken by the mouth joy of the saints”24 sink deep into his ened. This occurs in many ways, of His servants, the prophets—touch heart. Third, he was filled with a including through the experience of your heart. But it is not enough merely desire to know for himself whether adversity. An acquaintance of mine to let those words wash over you, as if these teachings were true and where recently wrote:

72 “We lost a 2-and-a-half-year-old strength to endure to the end. When testified: “We saw the Lord. . . . grandson to leukemia. . . . My chil- we gain this faith, we experience a And his voice was as the sound of dren still haven’t taken his crib down; mighty change of heart, and like the rushing of great waters, even the it will [soon be] 7 years [since he Enos, we become stronger and begin voice of Jehovah, saying: I am the first died. It is] hard to have faith. [I] lost a to feel a desire for the welfare of our and the last; I am he who liveth, I am friend [who was] 69. [He] had three brothers and sisters. We pray for he who was slain; I am your advocate different cancers in 10 years, [cancers them, that they too will be lifted and with the Father.”35 which] went into remission twice. strengthened through faith on the To my dear friend and all those [First, they found it in his] kidneys, Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ. whose souls are hungering for faith, I [then his] brain, [and] then [his] Let us consider a few of these invite you “to seek this Jesus of whom lungs. [He] couldn’t fight it any prophetic witnesses of the effects of the prophets and apostles have writ- longer. [He] tried everything humanly the Atonement in our lives. As we do I ten.”36 Let their witness that the possible and 6 years ago found faith invite you to let them sink deep into Savior gave His life for you sink deep . . . but not an extra day, so I guess it’s your heart and fill whatever hunger into your heart. Seek a witness of the hard to believe.” and thirsting there may be in your truth through the Holy Ghost in This appeal to me for faith was soul. prayer, and then see your faith answered as follows: “Your family “And in that day the Holy Ghost fell strengthened as you joyfully meet the story of the loss of your grandson to upon Adam, which beareth record of challenges of this mortal life and pre- leukemia was touching. Hopefully, the Father and the Son, saying: I am pare for eternal life. you and your children will find peace the Only Begotten of the Father from Jesus Christ did come. He did live. as you seek answers to the purpose of the beginning . . . , that as thou hast And He will come again. This I know life. Our faith is acquired through fallen thou mayest be redeemed.”31 and give my special witness and testi- prayer with a sincere desire to draw And “the Lord showed himself mony, in the sacred name of Jesus close to God and trust in Him to bear unto [the brother of Jared], and said: Christ, amen. ■ our burdens and give us answers to . . . Behold, I am he who was pre- NOTES life’s unexplained mysteries of the pared from the foundation of the 1. Articles of Faith 1:4. purpose of life: Where did we come world to redeem my people. . . . In 2. Hebrews 11:1. from? Why are we here on earth in me shall all mankind have life, and 3. D&C 46:13–14; emphasis added. 4. Helaman 14:3. mortality? And where are we going that eternally, even they who shall 5. Helaman 16:14. after our mortal sojourn on earth? All believe on my name.”32 6. Helaman 16:15. is well with your little one because he Abinadi witnessed: “I would that ye 7. Helaman 16:4. 8. Helaman 16:15–16, 18. died before the age of accountability should understand that God himself 9. Helaman 14:4. of eight years of age and he is in the shall come down among the children 10. 3 Nephi 1:20–21. presence of God. Seek faith, and may of men, and shall redeem his people. 11. John 20:25. 12. John 20:28. the blessings of God be with you.” . . . Yea, even so he shall be led, cruci- 13. John 20:29. Isn’t it interesting that the one who fied, and slain . . . ; giving [him] 14. Helaman 14:21. 15. Helaman 14:27. is suffering often gains faith through power to make intercession for the 16. 3 Nephi 10:12. suffering and accepts the Lord’s will, children of men . . . , having 17. 3 Nephi 11:2. “thy will be done,”30 while family redeemed them, and satisfied the 18. 3 Nephi 11:10–12. 33 19. D&C 95:6. members and caregivers may have a demands of justice.” 20. Romans 10:17. difficult time accepting the tragic out- And finally, Joseph Smith. As a 14- 21. Matthew 11:15. come and being able to strengthen year-old boy, he exercised unwavering 22. James 2:26. 23. Enos 1:3. their faith from the experience. We faith and followed the prophet 24. Enos 1:3. cannot measure faith by “an extra day.” James’s direction to “ask of God.”34 25. Enos 1:4. When the challenges of mortality Because of Joseph’s prophetic calling, 26. 3 Nephi 12:6. 27. Enos 1:4. come, and they come for all of us, God the Father and His Son, Jesus 28. Enos 1:2. it may seem hard to have faith and Christ, appeared to him and gave him 29. Matthew 7:7. 30. Matthew 26:42. hard to believe. At these times only instructions. How glorious was this 31. Moses 5:9. faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His First Vision to the first prophet of this 32. Ether 3:13–14. Atonement can bring us peace, hope, last dispensation! Sixteen years later 33. Mosiah 15:1, 7–9. 34. James 1:5. and understanding. Only faith that He in the Kirtland Temple, Joseph was 35. D&C 110:2–4. suffered for our sakes will give us the visited again by the Savior and 36. Ether 12:41.

NOVEMBER 2004 73 and lift to make us who we are. I express my deepest feelings of The Opportunity love and gratitude to the members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve for their love and kind- ness. In the closing of my stewardship to Testify as one of the seven Presidents of the Seventy, I want to express my love ELDER DIETER F. UCHTDORF and admiration to the Seventy. They Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are truly especial witnesses of Christ. Instead of any others they are the With . . . tender feelings of gratitude for all who have men the Twelve call upon when they influenced my life in past years, I commit myself to the future. need assistance. I give thanks to those dedicated men who are giving so much of their time, talents, and spiri- tual power to build the kingdom. Words cannot describe how I love the deep and often painful examination of 10 1/2 years I had the privilege and my soul during the many hours which joy to serve as a Seventy. I will cherish have passed day and night since the example and friendship of the Friday morning this week. members of the Quorums of the After President Gordon B. Hinckley Seventy forever. extended the call to me to become an I want to thank each and every Apostle and a member of the Quorum member of the Church throughout of the Twelve, I left my busy office to the world for your faithfulness despite share this totally unexpected news temptations; for your love; for your with my beloved Harriet. At this most dedication to the principles and doc- important time in our lives, we have trine of the restored gospel of Jesus cherished the quiet sacredness of our Christ; for your willingness to follow home as a place of refuge and of the living prophet in making the wards defense. How grateful I am for my and branches grow; for your sacrifices wife, for the loving comfort and strong in giving of your time and energy and support she has been throughout my your emotional, spiritual, and temporal life. Next to the gift of life itself and the substance. Thank you for paying an y dear brothers and sisters, restored gospel of Jesus Christ, Harriet honest tithing and not neglecting the here in Salt Lake City and is the greatest blessing which has poor and the lonely. I have seen the Maround the world, it is good come into my life. I wish to express my face of Christ in your faces, in your to be with you. I extend my love and deep love and appreciation to our chil- deeds, and in your exemplary lives. my greetings to Elder Bednar and dren and our grandchildren for their You are a modern miracle. Elder Robert Oaks in their new call- prayers and love, but most of all for I thank you for sustaining, with ings. To describe my inner feelings, I their example. Our children and your hand and with your heart, the would say I am calm as a hurricane, or grandchildren live in Germany and general officers of the Church. Yes- even better, I am happy and fright- are building the kingdom of God in terday we sustained the general lead- ened. In one sentence, I need your our homeland. The joys of the gospel ership of the Church according to the prayers; I need the Lord. of Jesus Christ and its eternal blessings principle of common consent. Not Having received a call and been bridge over the distance of many thou- one of these Church leaders is seeking given a sacred trust that will com- sands of miles and bring happiness such a position, nor are they declining pletely influence my life forever, my and comfort into our lives. such a call, because they know it feelings are tender and my emotions I express my gratitude and love to comes by revelation from God. often close to tears. each member of our family and to a We are grateful for your prayers, I have a great sense of inadequacy, large number of friends and teachers and we pray for you. We love you, and and I have felt a sweet agony from a along the way who teach and serve we need your love. We sustain you,

74 and we need your willingness to serve man’ (Moses 1:39). Your obligation is his own potential for bringing others the Lord wherever you are and to as serious in your sphere of responsi- to a knowledge of the truth. . . . Let whatever position you are called. In bility as is my obligation in my sphere” him pray with great earnestness about the Lord’s Church, every calling is (“This Is the Work of the Master,” it” (“Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep,” important. Ensign, May 1995, 71). And the Liahona, July 1999, 120; Ensign, May President Gordon B. Hinckley said: President asked us to reach out to oth- 1999, 106). “We are here to assist our Father in ers and bless the lives of those around My life was eternally blessed by one His work and His glory, ‘to bring to us. He said: “Let there be cultivated an choice member who reached out pass the immortality and eternal life of awareness in every member’s heart of more than 50 years ago. Some days after World War II, my grandmother was standing in line for food when an elderly single sister with no family of her own invited her to sacrament meeting in Zwickau, East Germany. My grandmother and my parents accepted the invitation. They went to church, felt the Spirit, were uplifted by the kindness of the members, and were edified by the hymns of the Restoration. My grandmother, my par- ents, and my three siblings were all baptized. I had to wait two years because I was only six. How grateful I am for a spiritually sensitive grand- mother, teachable parents, and a wise, white-haired, elderly single sister who had the sweet boldness to reach out and follow the Savior’s example by inviting us to “come and see” (see John 1:39). Her name was Sister Ewig, which translates in English to “Sister Eternal.” I will be eternally grateful for her love and example. With these tender feelings of grati- tude for all who have influenced my life in past years, I commit myself to the future. My heart and mind are filled with joy that for the rest of my life I will have the opportunity to “talk of Christ, . . . rejoice in Christ, . . . preach of Christ, [and] prophesy of Christ” (2 Nephi 25:26), all this as a special witness of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ (see D&C 107:23). Realizing my weaknesses, I gain great comfort from the instructions given by the Lord. In the Doctrine and Covenants we read: “The fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the sim- ple unto the ends of the world, and

NOVEMBER 2004 75 before kings and rulers. . . . “And inasmuch as they sought wis- dom they might be instructed; . . . In the Strength “And inasmuch as they were hum- ble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge” (D&C 1:23, 26, 28). of the Lord And in the Book of Mormon we read: ELDER DAVID A. BEDNAR “I will go and do the things Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no In the strength of the Lord we can do and endure commandments . . . save he shall pre- and overcome all things. pare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he com- mandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7). And in the Old Testament we receive comfort: I have reflected on the teaching of “The Spirit of the Lord will come Paul that “God hath chosen the fool- upon thee, and thou shalt . . . be ish things of the world to confound turned into another man,” “God gave the wise; and God hath chosen the him another heart,” and “God is with weak things of the world to con- thee” (1 Samuel 10:6, 9, 7). found the things which are mighty” I trust these wonderful promises. I (1 Corinthians 1:27). This morning I therefore pledge to you, to these my take great comfort in knowing that Brethren, and to the Lord that I will I am one of the truly weak things of live to be worthy to know the will of the world. the Lord and to act accordingly. I have pondered the instruction God our Heavenly Father knows us of Jacob as contained in the Book of by name. Jesus Christ lives; He is the Mormon: Messiah; He loves us. The Atonement “Wherefore, we search the of Jesus Christ is real; it brings immor- prophets, and we have many revela- tality to all and opens the door to tions and the spirit of prophecy; and eternal life. having all these witnesses we obtain a The gospel of Jesus Christ is again rothers and sisters, my heart is hope, and our faith becometh on the earth. The Church of Jesus filled to overflowing, my mind unshaken, insomuch that we truly can Christ of Latter-day Saints is true and Bis spinning, my knees are weak command in the name of Jesus and living. and wobbly, and I find that words are the very trees obey us, or the moun- The Book of Mormon is a second totally inadequate to communicate tains, or the waves of the sea. witness of Jesus Christ and a manifes- effectively the feelings and thoughts I “Nevertheless, the Lord God tation of the truthfulness of the desire to share with you. I pray for showeth us our weakness that we Prophet Joseph Smith. I love the and invite the companionship of the may know that it is by his grace, and Prophet Joseph. I love President Holy Ghost for me and for you as I his great condescensions unto the Gordon B. Hinckley, who is the speak with you briefly this Sabbath children of men, that we have power prophet of God and holds all the keys morning. to do these things” (Jacob 4:6–7). of the kingdom at this time, keys In the hours since President Brothers and sisters, please pay which prophets have held in uninter- Hinckley extended this new call to particular attention to the word grace rupted succession since Joseph Smith. serve, I have heeded the admonition as it is used in the verse I just read. In These things I know in my heart of Nephi to “liken all scriptures unto the Bible Dictionary we learn that the and in my mind. And of these things I us” (1 Nephi 19:23) with a greater word grace frequently is used in the testify in the name of Jesus Christ, sense of purpose and intensity than I scriptures to connote a strengthening amen. ■ have ever done before. or enabling power:

76 “The main idea of the word is strengthening power of the Atone- before the Lord, and spake before the divine means of help or strength, ment, I could not stand before you Lord, saying: Why is it that I have given through the bounteous mercy this morning. found favor in thy sight, and am but a and love of Jesus Christ. Can we sense the grace and lad, and all the people hate me; for I “. . . It is likewise through the grace strengthening power of Christ in the am slow of speech; wherefore am I of the Lord that individuals, through testimony of Ammon? “Yea, I know thy servant? faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ that I am nothing; as to my strength I “And the Lord said unto Enoch: Go and repentance of their sins, receive am weak; therefore I will not boast of forth and do as I have commanded strength and assistance to do good myself, but I will boast of my God, for thee, and no man shall pierce thee. works that they otherwise would not in his strength I can do all things; yea, Open thy mouth, and it shall be filled, be able to maintain if left to their own behold, many mighty miracles we and I will give thee utterance, for all means. This grace is an enabling have wrought in this land, for which flesh is in my hands, and I will do as power that allows men and women to we will praise his name forever” seemeth me good” (Moses 6:31–32). lay hold on eternal life and exaltation (Alma 26:12). Truly, brothers and sis- For all of us who feel unprepared after they have expended their own ters, in the strength of the Lord we and overwhelmed and unequal to a best efforts” (p. 697). can do and endure and overcome all new calling or responsibility, the Thus, the enabling and strengthen- things. promise of the Lord to Enoch is ing aspect of the Atonement helps us As I walked out of the Church equally applicable. The promise was to see and to do and to become good Administration Building after my true in Enoch’s day, and it is true in ways that we could never recognize interview with President Hinckley on today. or accomplish with our limited mortal Friday afternoon, I recalled the words On the night of June 20, 2000, capacity. I testify and witness that of Enoch: several colleagues and I were work- the enabling power of the Savior’s “And when Enoch had heard these ing late in the executive offices of then Atonement is real. Without that words, he bowed himself to the earth, Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho. We

NOVEMBER 2004 77 have opportunities to be together, we are blessed to see just a glimpse of the family unit in eternity. My dear brothers and sisters, I am grateful for you. As I see you assem- bled here in the Conference Center and envision you in meetinghouses all over the earth, I am blessed by your faithfulness and devotion to the Savior. As your arms were raised to the square on Saturday, I felt a sus- taining influence flow into my soul that was most remarkable. Few of you know who I am, yet you know from whom the call has come, and you are so willing to sustain and support. I express my thanks to you and pledge my whole soul and all of my energy to this sacred work. I will go where the Lord and the leaders of His Church want me to go, I will do what they want me to do, I will teach what they want me to teach, and I will strive to become were making final preparations for an have been opened, and we have been what I should and must become. In unexpected and historic assembly on greatly blessed as individuals and as the strength of the Lord and through our campus the next morning and the an institution. His grace, I know that you and I can announcement by President Hinckley Please permit me now to express be blessed to accomplish all things. that Ricks College would become a gratitude and appreciation. I am As one of the weakest of the weak, baccalaureate-degree-granting institu- thankful for my progenitors—for I testify that God lives. I testify and tion and take on the name of Brigham those faithful and steady men and witness that Jesus is the Christ. He is Young University—Idaho. As an women whom I respect and honor our Redeemer and our Savior, and He administrative team we were just and to whom I owe everything. I love lives. And I testify that the fulness of beginning to realize the monumental and appreciate my mother and father the gospel of Jesus Christ and His nature of the responsibility and chal- and my wife’s mother and father. I am true Church have been restored to lenges that were before us. grateful for their love and support the earth in these latter days through As we walked out of the building and teaching and strength. the Prophet Joseph Smith. Priesthood that night, one of my colleagues My wife, Susan, is a virtuous keys and authority and saving ordi- asked, “President, are you scared?” As woman and a righteous mother. You nances are again found on the earth. best as I can recall, I answered some- will quickly see that purity and good- By the power of that priesthood, fami- thing like this: “If I thought we had to ness are evident in her countenance. lies truly can be together forever. The execute this transition relying exclu- I love her and appreciate her more Book of Mormon is the word of God sively upon our own experience and than words can express. I thank her and the keystone of our religion. And, our own judgment, then I would be for the woman she is, for the lessons brothers and sisters, the heavens are terrified. But we will have help from she has taught me, and for the love not closed. God speaks—to us indi- heaven. Because we know who is in we share. vidually and to the leaders of His charge and that we are not alone, Susan and I have been blessed with latter-day kingdom on earth. Presi- then no, I am not scared.” And we three stalwart sons. I love and thank dent Gordon B. Hinckley is the Lord’s who serve at BYU—Idaho unitedly them. And our growing little family prophet on the earth today. Of these testify that there has been help from now includes two righteous daughters- things I testify and declare my witness heaven, miracles have occurred, reve- in-law and three brilliant and beautiful in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, lations have been received, doors and charming granddaughters. As we amen. ■

78 recently converted to the Church. These visits provide opportunity for Senior Missionaries the Poelmans to read with those fami- lies and bear testimony of temple blessings. In their mission branches, they have also taught people how to and the Gospel conduct music and play simplified versions of the hymns on small elec- ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON tronic keyboards. Elder and Sister Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Poelman recently wrote: “Baptism is only the first step in conversion. I express gratitude for our senior missionaries. When the initial excitement subsides They are young in spirit, wise, and willing to work. and the new converts continue facing the need to work long hours just to put bread on the table, they need oth- ers to help them who share the joy of the gospel. That is our specialty. Part throbs in the heart of every mission- of our work is preventive—staying ary who testifies of Jesus Christ and close to new converts. Yet others who teaches His message. rarely attend meetings have not lost When we think of missionaries, we conviction and receive our messages generally picture in our minds young gratefully. As we watch the changes men with shirts and ties and young brought about in the lives of those we women dressed modestly. But along visit, we feel blessed to be receiving with them are marvelous senior mis- constant tutoring and help from the sionaries who have answered the Lord in this work and, at the same pleadings of prophets and apostles time, to know that our family mem- for more missionary couples.2 bers back home are vicariously shar- I express gratitude for our senior ing our calling and those special missionaries. They are young in spirit, blessings.”6 wise, and willing to work. They even Such marvelous couples are tolerate remarks from their fun-filled engaged in the work of reclaiming children who might change President souls who have previously made Spencer W. Kimball’s plea “Lengthen covenants to take upon themselves ratefully we welcome Elder your stride” to “Hasten your shuffle.”3 the name of Jesus Christ. Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Elder These dear members are willing to Other missionary couples render David A. Bednar to the serve and strengthen the lives of oth- service in sacred temples of the G 4 Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. ers. Even if these seniors don’t know Church. Elder Kenneth and Sister Prayerfully and unitedly we will serve the local language, their accomplish- Barbara Willits, for instance, serve in the Lord Jesus Christ. ments are great and their spirit of sac- the Accra Ghana Temple. They devel- Assignments this year have taken rifice is precious.5 oped a special love for the people of me to many nations of the earth. In Ghana while serving there as mission- some of those countries, the Church Examples of Senior Missionary aries more than two decades earlier. is relatively new. No matter where I Service They are energetic and enthusiastic go, I meet our missionaries. They are For example, I think of Elder Lloyd converts of 50 years, with 3 children, remarkably resilient and ever effec- Poelman and his wife, Sister Catherine 16 grandchildren, and 12 great-grand- tive. They give visible and tangible Poelman. Parents of 9 grown children children. They perform the exalting evidence that the Church of Jesus and grandparents of 20 grandchil- ordinances of the temple. Brother Christ has been restored in its fulness. dren, they now serve in a remote part Willits serves as a sealer. On several It was He who said, “Go ye into all the of Chile, working in a small branch. occasions they have been pleasantly world, and preach the gospel to every They make frequent visits among less- surprised to meet members whom creature.”1 This commandment active members and with families they had previously encountered

NOVEMBER 2004 79 during their first mission. Recently those members are now enhanced by occupation. They spoke of their many Elder Willits performed the sealing experienced couples who serve as deprivations. Finding the Lord’s true of a husband and wife that they had temple missionaries. To them, we also Church and later immigrating to taught in 1982, and to that couple, express our heartfelt gratitude. America were counted as treasured Elder Willits sealed four of their Earlier this year Elder Douglas L. blessings. The ensuing years brought deceased children. Elder and Sister Callister and I were in Kiev, capital them five healthy children, along with Willits write: “Our willingness to leave city of Ukraine. We were there to cre- spiritual and financial increase. They our family and home is motivated by ate the first stake in the former Union felt that serving a mission would be a the temple covenants we have made, of Soviet Socialist Republics. We were good way for them to show gratitude and our deepest desire is to become pleased to note that the Kiev Ukraine to the Lord. They expressed a deep an eternal family. Our family is fully District was well prepared to become desire to serve in Eastern Europe. supportive as we serve, and they a stake—fully organized and ready to Their call came to serve in the share in many blessings we have take its place among the stakes of Ukraine Kiev Mission. Elder and Sister received. We are humbly grateful for Zion. There we also met with the mis- Hegewald write: “Now, close to the the privilege of assisting others to sionaries, among whom were several end of our mission in the land of our receive their temple blessings.”7 stalwart senior couples. We listened former enemy, we are thankful for the Courageous and caring couples attentively to their expressions. opportunity to teach and love the like Elder and Sister Willits enable and We remember the account of Elder Ukrainian people. As we have served enrich the work done in many of our Rudi and Sister Eva Hegewald, who the Lord, our souls have been healed temples across the earth. Some, such grew up in what was then known as and our family has become more as the Accra Ghana Temple, are East Germany. Speaking with a slight united. We have had a truly remark- located where most local members and sweet German accent, they able and satisfying experience and had not had previous opportunities recounted the difficult days of World have seen many small miracles.”8 to attend a temple. Ordinances for War II and the subsequent Soviet Notice that all three couples wrote

80 of their blessings. Another couple tells may be the most important. The Lord The Savior’s mortal ministry of blessings that come from mission- has declared: includes everything else that He ary service. They wrote: “Good people “O ye that embark in the service of did—His teachings, expressions of replaced our parenting functions bet- God, see that ye serve him with all love, attention to ordinances, patterns ter than we. . . . If a family problem your heart, might, mind and strength, of prayer, perseverance, and more. has not yielded to prayer and fasting, that ye may stand blameless before He lived to be our Exemplar, which a mission might be considered.”9 God at the last day. He also equated to the gospel in His No senior missionary finds it con- “Therefore, if ye have desires to ministerial statement. “This is my venient to leave. Neither did Joseph serve God ye are called to the work.”14 gospel,” He said, “. . . for the works or Brigham or John or Wilford. They Many humble Latter-day Saints fear which ye have seen me do that shall had children and grandchildren too. that they are not qualified for mission- ye also do.”19 Thus, faith; repentance; They loved their families not one whit ary labors. But to such a prospective baptism by water, fire, and of the Holy less, but they also loved the Lord and missionary, the Lord has given this Ghost; the gathering of the elect; and wanted to serve Him. Someday we assurance: “Faith, hope, charity and enduring to the end are all part of the may meet these stalwarts who helped love, with an eye single to the glory of gospel.20 All of us can emulate the to establish this dispensation. Then God, qualify him for the work.”15 Lord’s example, regardless of age, will we rejoice that we did not seek status, or location. the shadows when a call to missionary Limitations Imposed by Age As one among the “special wit- service came from the prophet, even and Health nesses of the name of Christ in all the in the autumn years of our lives. As I extol the work of senior mis- world,”21 I declare that He is the Son of At general conference in October sionaries, I realize that there are many the living God, our atoning Savior and 1925, President Heber J. Grant issued more who would like to serve but are Redeemer. This is His Church, restored a clarion call for “men of mature years not able to do so. Limitations imposed in these latter days to fulfill its divine and sound judgment, who have had by age or by poor health deserve real- destiny. His prophet today is President experience in the preaching of the istic appraisal, as do the important Gordon B. Hinckley. I so testify in the gospel, . . . to go forth and labor in needs of family members. When desire name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ the mission field.”10 burns within yet such limitations exist, That need persists. At the most you can extend your service through NOTES 1. Mark 16:15; see also Matthew 28:19; recent training broadcast to priest- others. They can be your arms and Mormon 9:22; D&C 42:58; 68:8; 80:1; hood leaders throughout the world, legs, and you can provide needed 84:62; 112:28. President Gordon B. Hinckley issued a funds. Still others can contribute time 2. For example, see Gordon B. Hinckley, “There Must Be Messengers,” Ensign, Oct. similar call: “There is a constant need and talents as live-at-home missionar- 1987, 2–5; see also L. Tom Perry, “Go Ye for more couple missionaries,” he ies.16 Each will be pleasing to the Lord, Therefore, and Teach All Nations,” Ensign, May 1984, 78–80; M. Russell Ballard, said. “They perform wonderful service and each will receive His praise. “Missionary Couples,” Tambuli, May 1990, throughout the world. You [leaders] 16–21; Ensign, June 1988, 8–12; Robert D. need not wait for the couples to vol- The Gospel Hales, “Couple Missionaries: A Time to Serve,” Liahona, July 2001, 28–31; Ensign, unteer. The sacrifices associated with All of us may preach the gospel May 2001, 25–27. serving the Lord full time will abun- by precept and example. The word 3. See “Serving as Couple Missionaries,” dantly bless the couples, their families, gospel means “good news.” The good Ensign, Sept. 1997, 15. 11 4. See Luke 22:32. and the people they serve.” news is the Lord Jesus Christ and His 5. Concerns pertaining to a mission may be message of salvation.17 Jesus equated considered in four categories: Qualifications for the Work the gospel with both His mission and (1) Finances: Any expenses over and beyond what would have been needed at home may Bishops also need to heed that with His ministry in mortality. In His be subsidized by children, friends, quorums, prophetic call and ask such members mission statement, Jesus said: or by other members of the family. if they could serve. Opportunities for “This is the gospel which I have (2) Fear: Mature missionaries need not fear tracting or learning a new language. Much senior missionaries are varied and given unto you—that I came into the can be contributed using talents already vast.12 Their calls to serve are officially world to do the will of my Father, acquired. Missionaries can venture into another language situation knowing that made after prayerful consideration because my Father sent me. they will learn what they need to know with- has been given to their occupational “And my Father sent me that I out demanding fluency of themselves. They background, language experience, might be lifted up upon the cross.”18 will learn some of their mission language 13 and find joy in using each new expression. and personal capabilities. Of all qual- The Savior’s mortal mission we (3) Fitness: While a risk-free environment ifications to serve, a desire to serve know as the Atonement. cannot be guaranteed either at home or in

NOVEMBER 2004 81 the mission field, appropriate provisions can be made for proper diet and exercise. Routine needs for physical care can gener- ally be met in the mission field. In the event The Women of an emergency, evacuation, if advisable, is possible. (4) Families: Children and grandchildren of senior missionaries will be blessed because of their service. To a missionary the Lord in Our Lives provided this promise: “Behold, you have had many afflictions because of your family; nevertheless, I will bless you and your PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY family, yea, your little ones; and the day cometh that they will believe and know the truth and be one with you in my church” How thankful I am, how thankful we all must be, (D&C 31:2). As those “little ones” pray for their missionary parents, they will be drawn for the women in our lives. toward the Lord as well as to parents or grandparents. 6. Personal letter, dated 29 June 2004. 7. Personal letter, received 28 June 2004. 8. Personal letter, received 1 July 2004. 9. Letter addressed to Elder Dallin H. Oaks then popular. She was my dear com- from Dr. Brent and Carol Petersen, dated panion for more than two-thirds of a 27 June 2004. century, my equal before the Lord, 10. In Conference Report, Oct. 1925, 10. 11. “To the Bishops of the Church,” Worldwide really my superior. And now in my old Leadership Training Meeting, 19 June age, she has again become the girl of 2004, 27; see also “Excerpts from Recent Addresses of President Gordon B. my dreams. Hinckley,” Ensign, Apr. 1996, 72. Immediately following her passing 12. Categories include leadership and member there was a tremendous outpouring work; family history and temple service; medical, humanitarian, and welfare serv- of love from across the world. Great ices; working at visitors’ centers, for public quantities of beautiful floral offerings affairs, on an area or mission office staff, were sent. Large contributions were with finance and records, with physical facilities, for the Church Educational made in her name to the Perpetual System, with the Perpetual Education Fund, Education Fund and her academic or in support of other educational endeav- chair at Brigham Young University. ors. Other opportunities are available to suit the unique abilities possessed by There were literally hundreds of let- prospective missionaries. See Giles H. ters. We have boxes filled with them Florence Jr., “So Many Kinds of Missions,” Ensign, Feb. 1990, 6–11. from many we know and from very 13. For details regarding qualification and y brethren and sisters, at the many we do not know. They all preparation for senior missionaries, see outset, if you will bear with express admiration for her and sym- David B. Haight, “Couple Missionaries—‘A me, I wish to exercise a per- pathy and love for us whom she left Wonderful Resource,’ ” Liahona, Oct. 1997, M 26–33; Ensign, Feb. 1996, 6–12; Vaughn J. sonal privilege. Six months ago, at the behind. Featherstone, “Couple Missionaries: ‘Too close of our conference, I stated that We regret that we have been Wonderful for Me,’ ” Ensign, Sept. 1998, 14–17; “There Is Work for Us to Do,” Ensign, my beloved companion of 67 years unable to respond individually to Oct. 1993, 36–41; “The Impact of Couple was seriously ill. She passed away two these many expressions. So I now Missionaries,” Ensign, Apr. 2003, 60–63; days later. It was April 6, a significant take this occasion to thank you every John L. Hart, “Working Miracles in Mission Field,” Church News, 22 Dec. 1990, 3, 7. day to all of us of this Church. I wish one for your great kindness toward 14. D&C 4:2–3; emphasis added. to thank publicly the dedicated doc- us. Thank you so very, very much, and 15. D&C 4:5. tors and wonderful nurses who please excuse our failure to reply. The 16. Additional information can be found on the Church Web site www.lds.org under attended her during her final illness. task was beyond our capacity, but “Service Opportunities for Senior Mission- My children and I were at her bed- your expressions have shed an aura of aries” (click on “Other Resources” on the home page, then on “Church-Service side as she slipped peacefully into comfort in our time of grief. Missionary Opportunities”). eternity. As I held her hand and saw I am grateful to be able to say that 17. See Bible Dictionary, “Gospels,” 682–83. mortal life drain from her fingers, I in our long life together I cannot 18. 3 Nephi 27:13–14. 19. 3 Nephi 27:21. confess I was overcome. Before I mar- remember a serious quarrel. Small 20. See D&C 33:6–12; 39:6. ried her, she had been the girl of my differences occasionally, yes, but noth- 21. D&C 107:23. dreams, to use the words of a song ing of a serious nature. I believe our

82 marriage has been as idyllic as any- one’s could possibly be. I recognize that many of you are similarly blessed, and I compliment you most warmly, for when all is said and done there is no association richer than the companionship of husband and wife, and nothing more portentous for good or evil than the unending consequences of marriage. I see those consequences con- stantly. I see both beauty and tragedy. And so I have chosen to say a few words today on the women in our lives. I begin with the Creation of the world. We read in the book of Genesis and in the book of Moses of that great, singular, and remarkable under- taking. The Almighty was the architect of that creation. Under His direction it was executed by His Beloved Son, the Great Jehovah, who was assisted by Michael, the archangel. There came first the forming of heaven and earth, to be followed by the separation of the light from the darkness. The waters were removed from the land. Then came vegetation, followed by the animals. There fol- lowed the crowning creation of man. Genesis records that “God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). But the process was not complete. “For Adam there was not found an help meet for him. “And the Lord God caused a deep the marvelous work that had gone the Book of Mormon. We have Mary, sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: before. the very mother of the Redeemer of and he took one of his ribs, and Notwithstanding this preeminence the world. We have her as the chosen closed up the flesh instead thereof; given the creation of woman, she has of God, described by Nephi as “a vir- “And the rib, which the Lord God so frequently through the ages been gin, most beautiful and fair above all had taken from man, made he a relegated to a secondary position. She other virgins” (1 Nephi 11:15). woman, and brought her unto the has been put down. She has been She it was who carried the child man. denigrated. She has been enslaved. Jesus into Egypt to save His life from “And Adam said, This is now bone She has been abused. And yet some the wrath of Herod. She it was who of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: few of the greatest characters of scrip- nurtured Him in His boyhood and she shall be called Woman” (Genesis ture have been women of integrity, young manhood. She stood before 2:20–23). accomplishment, and faith. Him when His pain-wracked body And so Eve became God’s final cre- We have Esther, Naomi, and Ruth of hung upon the cross on Calvary’s hill. ation, the grand summation of all of the Old Testament. We have Sariah of In His suffering He said to her,

NOVEMBER 2004 83 “Woman, behold thy son!” And to His seem to realize that they would not Every woman is a daughter of God. disciple in a plea that he care for her, exist but for the mother who gave You cannot offend her without He said, “Behold thy mother!” (John them birth. When they assert their offending Him. I plead with the men 19:26–27). superiority they demean her. It has of this Church to look for and nurture Crossing through His life we been said, “Man can not degrade the divinity that lies within their com- have Mary and Martha, and Mary of woman without himself falling into panions. To the degree that happens, Magdala. She it was who came to the degradation; he can not elevate her there will be harmony, peace, enrich- tomb that first Easter morning. And to without at the same time elevating ment of family life, nurturing love. her, a woman, He first appeared as the himself” (Alexander Walker, in Elbert Well did President McKay remind resurrected Lord. Why is it that even Hubbard’s Scrap Book [1923], 204). us that “no other success [in life] can though Jesus placed woman in a posi- How very true that is. We see the compensate for failure in the home” tion of preeminence, so many men bitter fruit of that degradation all (quoted from J. E. McCulloch, Home: who profess His name fail to do so? about us. Divorce is one of its results. The Savior of Civilization [1924], 42; In His grand design, when God This evil runs rampant through our in Conference Report, Apr. 1935, 116). first created man, He created a society. It is the outcome of disre- Likewise, the truth of which duality of the sexes. The ennobling spect for one’s marriage partner. It President Lee reminded us: “The expression of that duality is found in manifests itself in neglect, in criticism, [greatest] work you will ever do will marriage. One individual is comple- in abuse, in abandonment. We in the be within the walls of your own mentary to the other. As Paul stated, Church are not immune from it. home” (“Maintain Your Place as a “Neither is the man without the Jesus declared, “What therefore Woman,” Ensign, Feb. 1972, 51). woman, neither the woman without God hath joined together, let not man The cure for most marital troubles the man, in the Lord” (1 Corinthians put asunder” (Matthew 19:6). does not lie in divorce. It lies in 11:11). The word man is used in the repentance and forgiveness, in There is no other arrangement generic sense, but the fact is that it is expressions of kindness and concern. that meets the divine purposes of the predominantly men who bring about It is to be found in application of the Almighty. Man and woman are His the conditions that lead to divorce. Golden Rule. creations. Their duality is His design. After dealing with hundreds of It is a scene of great beauty when a Their complementary relationships divorce situations through the years, young man and a young woman join and functions are fundamental to His I am satisfied that the application of a hands at the altar in a covenant before purposes. One is incomplete without single practice would do more than God that they will honor and love one the other. all else to solve this grievous problem. another. Then how dismal the picture I recognize that we have many won- If every husband and every wife when a few months later, or a few derful women among us who do not would constantly do whatever might years later, there are offensive have the opportunity of marriage. But be possible to ensure the comfort and remarks, mean and cutting words, they, too, make such a tremendous happiness of his or her companion, raised voices, bitter accusations. contribution. They serve the Church there would be very little, if any, It need not be, my dear brothers faithfully and ably. They teach in the divorce. Argument would never be and sisters. We can rise above these organizations. They stand as officers. heard. Accusations would never be mean and beggarly elements in our I witnessed a very interesting leveled. Angry explosions would not lives (see Galatians 4:9). We can look thing the other day. The General occur. Rather, love and concern for and recognize the divine nature Authorities were in a meeting, and the would replace abuse and meanness. in one another, which comes to us presidency of the Relief Society were There was a popular song we sang as children of our Father in Heaven. there with us. These able women many years ago, the lyrics of which We can live together in the God-given stood in our council room and shared said: pattern of marriage in accomplishing with us principles of welfare and of that of which we are capable if we helping those who are in distress. Our I want to be happy, will exercise discipline of self and stature as officers of this Church was But I won’t be happy refrain from trying to discipline our not diminished by what they did. Our Till I make you happy, too. companion. capacities to serve were increased. (Irving Caesar, “I Want to Be Happy” The women in our lives are crea- There are some men who, in a [1924]) tures endowed with particular quali- spirit of arrogance, think they are ties, divine qualities, which cause them superior to women. They do not How true this is. to reach out in kindness and with love

84 to those about them. We can encour- negligence and abuse and unkindness. lives. God bless them. May His great age that outreach if we will give them God has given us the priesthood, love distill upon them and crown opportunity to give expression to the and that priesthood cannot be exer- them with luster and beauty, grace talents and impulses that lie within cised, “only by persuasion, by long- and faith. And may His Spirit distill them. In our old age my beloved com- suffering, by gentleness and meek- upon us as men and lead us ever to panion said to me quietly one evening, ness, and by love unfeigned; by kind- hold them in respect, in gratitude, “You have always given me wings to fly, ness, and pure knowledge, which giving encouragement, strength, nur- and I have loved you for it.” shall greatly enlarge the soul without ture, and love, which is the very I once knew a man who has since hypocrisy, and without guile” (D&C essence of the gospel of our passed on but who insisted on mak- 121:41–42). Redeemer and Lord. For this I ing all of the decisions for his wife and How thankful I am, how thankful humbly pray, in the sacred name of children. They could not buy a pair of we all must be, for the women in our Jesus Christ, amen. ■ shoes without him. They could not take a piano lesson. They could not serve in the Church without his con- sent. I have since witnessed the out- come of that attitude, and that outcome is not good. My father never hesitated to com- pliment my mother. We children knew that he loved her because of the way he treated her. He deferred to her. And I shall ever be profoundly grateful for his example. Many of you have been blessed likewise. Now I might go on but it is not necessary. I wish only to give empha- sis to the great, salient truth that we are all children of God, both sons and daughters, brothers and sisters. As a father, do I love my daughters less than I love my sons? No. If I am guilty of any imbalance, it is in favor of my girls. I have said that when a man gets old he had better have daughters about him. They are so kind and good and thoughtful. I think I can say that my sons are able and wise. My daugh- ters are clever and kind. And “my cup runneth over” (Psalm 23:5) because of this. Women are such a necessary part of the plan of happiness which our Heavenly Father has outlined for us. That plan cannot operate without them. Brethren, there is too much of unhappiness in the world. There is too much of misery and heartache and heartbreak. There are too many tears shed by grieving wives and daughters. There is too much

NOVEMBER 2004 85 SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION 3 October 2004

to the desire of their hearts” (D&C 137:9). The Least of These The Lord said to the Church: “When I give a commandment to PRESIDENT BOYD K. PACKER any of the sons of men to do a work Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles unto my name, and those sons of men go with all their might and with all they have to perform that work, Let no one underestimate the power of faith and cease not their diligence, and in the ordinary Latter-day Saints. their enemies come upon them and hinder them from performing that work, behold, it behooveth me to require that work no more at the behind to sell their properties for hands of those sons of men, but to what little he could. There was not accept of their offerings. . . . much chance that he could succeed. “. . . This I make an example unto And, really, he did not succeed! you, for your consolation concerning But the Lord said, “Let him con- all those who have been commanded tend earnestly for the redemption to do a work and have been hin- of the First Presidency of my dered by the hands of their enemies, Church, saith the Lord; and when and by oppression, saith the Lord he falls he shall rise again, for his your God” (D&C 124:49, 53; see also sacrifice shall be more sacred unto Mosiah 4:27). me than his increase, saith the The few in Kirtland are now mil- Lord” (D&C 117:13). lions of ordinary Latter-day Saints What did Oliver Granger do that across the world. They speak a multi- his name should be held in sacred tude of languages but unite in faith remembrance? Nothing much, really. and understanding through the lan- It was not so much what he did as guage of the Spirit. what he was. These faithful members make and here is a message for Latter-day When we honor Oliver, much, per- keep their covenants and strive to be Saints in a seldom quoted revela- haps even most, of the honor should worthy to enter the temple. They Ttion given to the Prophet Joseph go to Lydia Dibble Granger, his wife. believe the prophecies and sustain Smith in 1838. “I remember my ser- Oliver and Lydia finally left the ward and branch leaders. vant Oliver Granger; behold, verily I Kirtland to join the Saints in Far West, Like Oliver, they sustain the First say unto him that his name shall be Missouri. They had gone but a few Presidency and the Quorum of the had in sacred remembrance from gen- miles from Kirtland when they were Twelve Apostles and accept what the eration to generation, forever and ever, turned back by a mob. Only later did Lord said: “If my people will hearken saith the Lord” (D&C 117:12). they join the Saints at Nauvoo. unto my voice, and unto the voice of Oliver Granger was a very ordinary Oliver died at age 47, leaving Lydia [these men] whom I have appointed man. He was mostly blind having to look after their children. to lead my people, behold, verily I say “lost his sight by cold and exposure” The Lord did not expect Oliver to unto you, they shall not be moved out (History of the Church, 4:408). The be perfect, perhaps not even to suc- of their place” (D&C 124:45). First Presidency described him as “a ceed. “When he falls he shall rise In the revelation given as a preface man of the most strict integrity and again, for his sacrifice shall be more for the Doctrine and Covenants, the moral virtue; and in fine, to be a man sacred unto me than his increase, Lord explained who would do His of God” (History of the Church, saith the Lord” (D&C 117:13). work. Listen carefully as I read that 3:350). We cannot always expect to suc- revelation, and think of the trust that When the Saints were driven from ceed, but we should try the best the Lord has in us: Kirtland, Ohio, in a scene that would we can. “Wherefore, I the Lord, knowing be repeated in Independence, Far “For I, the Lord, will judge all men the calamity which should come upon West, and in Nauvoo, Oliver was left according to their works, according the inhabitants of the earth, called

86 upon my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and spake unto him from heaven, and gave him commandments; “And also gave commandments to others, that they should proclaim these things unto the world; and all this that it might be fulfilled, which was written by the prophets— “The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh.” The next verse provides for the priesthood to be conferred upon ordinary, worthy men and boys: “That every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world; . . . “That the fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world, and before kings and rulers. As the Lord told Oliver Granger, boiled corn. The cost of the bus to “Behold, I am God and have spo- “When [they fall they] shall rise again, Manila probably came out of their ken it; these commandments are of for [their] sacrifice shall be more food budget. me, and were given unto my servants sacred unto me than [their] increase” As I watched that family, my heart in their weakness, after the manner of (D&C 117:13). overflowed with emotion. There is the their language, that they might come Some worry endlessly over mis- Church. There is the power. There is to understanding. sions that were missed, or marriages the future. As with families in many “And inasmuch as they erred it that did not turn out, or babies that lands, they pay their tithing, sustain might be made known; did not arrive, or children that seem their leaders, and do their best to “And inasmuch as they sought wis- lost, or dreams unfulfilled, or because serve. dom they might be instructed; age limits what they can do. I do not For more than 40 years, my wife “And inasmuch as they sinned they think it pleases the Lord when we and I have traveled over the earth. We might be chastened, that they might worry because we think we never do know members of the Church in per- repent; enough or that what we do is never haps a hundred countries. We have “And inasmuch as they were hum- good enough. felt the power in their simple faith. ble they might be made strong, and Some needlessly carry a heavy bur- Their individual testimonies and their blessed from on high, and receive den of guilt which could be removed sacrifice have had a profound effect knowledge from time to time” (D&C through confession and repentance. on us. 1:17–20, 23–28; emphasis added). The Lord did not say of Oliver, I do not like to receive honors. Now another generation of youth “[If] he falls,” but “When he falls he Compliments always bother me, comes forward. We see a strength in shall rise again” (D&C 117:13; because the great work of moving the them beyond what we have seen emphasis added). gospel forward has in the past, does before. Drinking and drugs and moral Some years ago in the Philippines now, and will in the future depend mischief are not a part of their lives. we arrived early for a conference. upon ordinary members. They band together in study of the Sitting on the curb were a father and My wife and I do not expect reward gospel, in socials, and in service. mother and four small children for ourselves greater than will come They are not perfect. Not yet. They dressed in their Sunday best. They to our own children or to our parents. are doing the best they can, and they had come several hours on a bus and We do not press nor do we really are stronger than the generations that were having the first meal of the day. want our children to set great promi- came before. Each of them was eating a cob of cold, nence and visibility in the world or

NOVEMBER 2004 87 even in the Church as their goal in President Mills of the Japan Fukuoka incredible number of the leaders life. That has so very little to do with Mission was prevented from attend- had joined the Church as teenagers. the worth of the soul. They will fulfill ing by an approaching ferocious Most of them had lost their fathers our dreams if they live the gospel and typhoon. The young zone leaders in the war. raise their children in faith. conducted that meeting with as much Elder Yoshihiko Kikuchi of the Like John, “[We] have no greater inspiration and dignity as their mis- Seventy is one of that generation. joy than to hear that [our] children sion president might have done. We The calamities that the Lord fore- walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). left the next morning in gale-force saw now come upon an unrepentant Some years ago, as president winds, content to leave the missionar- world. At once, generation after gen- of the New England Mission, I left ies in their care. eration of youth come forward. They Fredericton, New Brunswick. It was Recently in Osaka, Japan, Elders are given in marriage. They keep the 40 degrees below zero. As the plane Russell Ballard and Henry Eyring of covenants made in the house of the taxied away from that small terminal, the Twelve and I, together with Lord. They have children and do not I saw two young elders standing out- President David Sorensen and others let society set limits upon family life. side, waving good-bye. I thought, of the Seventy, met with 21 mission Today we fulfill the prophecy “that “Foolish boys. Why do they not go presidents and 26 Area Authority [Oliver Granger’s] name shall be had inside where it’s warm?” Seventies. There were among the Area in sacred remembrance from genera- Suddenly there came over me a Authority Seventies Elder Subandriyo tion to generation, forever and ever” powerful prompting, a revelation: from Jakarta, Indonesia; Elder Chu-Jen (D&C 117:12). He was not a great man There in these two ordinary young Chia from Beijing, China; Elder in terms of the world. Nevertheless, missionaries stands the priesthood of Remus G. Villarete of the Philippines; the Lord said, “Let no man despise my Almighty God. I leaned back, content Elder Won Yong Ko from Korea; and servant Oliver Granger, but let the to leave the missionary work for that 22 others—only two Americans blessings . . . be on him forever and entire province of Canada in their among them. It was a uniting of ever” (D&C 117:15). hands. It was a lesson I have never nations, tongues, and people. None Let no one underestimate forgotten. of them are paid. They all serve freely, the power of faith in the ordinary Eight weeks ago Elder William grateful to be called to the work. Latter-day Saints. Remember the Lord Walker of the Seventy and I held a We reorganized stakes in Okazaki, said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it zone conference in Naha for 44 mis- Sapporo, and Osaka, Japan. All three unto one of the least of these my sionaries on the island of Okinawa. of the new stake presidents and an brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:40). He promised that “the Holy Ghost shall be [their] constant companion, and [their] scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and [their] dominion shall be an ever- lasting dominion, and without compul- sory means it shall flow unto [them] forever and ever” (D&C 121:46). Nothing! No power can stop the progress of the Lord’s work. “How long can rolling waters remain impure? What power shall stay the heavens? As well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri river in its decreed course, or to turn it up stream, as to hinder the Almighty from pouring down knowl- edge from heaven upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints” (D&C 121:33). Of this I bear an apostolic witness, John and Celina Sun arrive for a conference broadcast in Papeete, Tahiti. in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

88 other heavenly messengers also appeared there. One of these was We Did This for You Elijah the prophet, who restored, through the Prophet Joseph Smith, ELAINE S. DALTON keys pertaining to the restoration of Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency the priesthood and the “great work to be done in the temples of the Lord.”1 This happened in accordance with Temple work is the work that we have been prepared to do. the promise that is recorded in the It is a work for every generation, including and especially Doctrine and Covenants wherein the the youth. Lord said: “Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet. . . . did they do it? And when the temple “And he shall plant in the hearts of was nearly completed, how could the children the promises made to they leave it behind? As I sat silently the fathers, and the hearts of the chil- contemplating this scene, the answer dren shall turn to their fathers. came forcefully yet softly to my mind “If it were not so, the whole and heart: “We did this for you.” earth would be utterly wasted at his Those words, “We did this for coming.”2 you,” reminded me that our ances- The early Saints understood what tors, along with many other faithful this scripture meant, and on that Saints, sacrificed everything because beautiful morning in the old cemetery of their testimonies and faith in Jesus in Nauvoo, I understood also. Christ. They knew that the gospel had How can the promises made to the been restored to the earth once more fathers be planted in the hearts of the and that they were led by a prophet children? How can the hearts of the of God. They knew that the Book of children be turned to their fathers? Mormon was true and understood This can happen only when we under- its message and witness. They knew stand our identity and roles in this little over a year ago, my hus- that through the restoration of priest- work and remain worthy and pre- band and I visited Nauvoo. As hood keys, families could be sealed pared to enter the temple and act on A we walked through the Old together for eternity through holy behalf of those who have gone before. Pioneer Cemetery searching for the priesthood ordinances available only Brigham Young said: “We have a grave of an ancestor, Zina Baker in a temple. They knew that temple work to do just as important in its Huntington, I was touched by the work was the key to the salvation and sphere as the Savior’s work was in its peaceful solitude and spirit I felt. I exaltation of the human family. They sphere. . . . We are now called upon to walked through the trees and read knew the importance of this work, do ours; which is to be the greatest the names on the gravestones, many and they were willing to give all that work man ever performed on the of them children and families. I wept they had in order to provide a house earth.”3 as my heart was turned to our fore- acceptable to the Lord wherein this In the vision of the redemption of fathers, many of whom had joined holy work could be performed. They the dead given to President Joseph F. the Church and come to Nauvoo. In sacrificed everything so that past and Smith, he saw many of the noble and my mind I asked many questions: future generations would have access great prophets who had been on the Why did they leave their comfortable to the eternal blessings of the temple. earth prior to the Savior’s coming. He homes and families? Why did they suf- Prior to coming to Nauvoo, the also saw the Prophet Joseph Smith, fer persecution, sickness, even death? Saints sacrificed greatly to build the Hyrum Smith, his father, and “other Why did they sacrifice all that they first temple of this dispensation in choice spirits who were reserved to had to come to this place and build a Kirtland, Ohio. It was there that the come forth in the fulness of times to temple? They hardly had shelter, and Lord Himself appeared to Joseph take part in laying the foundations of yet they were building a temple! Why Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Three the great latter-day work.”4 Who were

NOVEMBER 2004 89 those other choice spirits? Our gener- days, temples would literally dot the our focus, and we must remember ation was somewhere there among earth. At the time my grandfather that the temple is the reason for those “noble and great” leaders, pre- expressed this thought to me, I could everything we do in the Church. pared in the world of spirits to be on hardly imagine it. But I was raised Youth programs such as Personal the earth at this time! The scriptures with this knowledge and feeling in Progress and Duty to God encourage tell us that “even before they were my heart. Recently I looked on the youth to be worthy to attend the tem- born, they, with many others, Church’s Web site under “temples,” ple. These programs are designed to received their first lessons in the and I could plainly see that the tem- help youth make and keep commit- world of spirits and were prepared ples, designated by red dots, are start- ments, thus preparing them to make to come forth in the due time of the ing to spread over much of the earth.8 and keep covenants. They also Lord to labor in his vineyard for the Our beloved prophet, President encourage youth to participate in salvation of the souls of men.”5 The Gordon B. Hinckley, has said, “We are journal writing, family history, and labor we were prepared and reserved determined . . . to take the temples to performing baptisms for their ances- to perform includes “the building of the people and afford them every tors. The For the Strength of Youth the temples and the performance of opportunity for the very precious pamphlet teaches doctrine and princi- ordinances therein for the redemp- blessings that come of temple wor- ples that, if understood and lived, will tion of the dead.”6 ship.”9 Our prophet knows that it is help youth be worthy to attend the Brigham Young foresaw the time in difficult to do temple work if we are temple. These programs are powerful which we are now living. He said, “To not near a temple. This is our day, and tools to be used by youth, parents, accomplish this work there will have temple work is the work that we have and leaders. They help youth prepare to be not only one temple but thou- been prepared to do. It is a work for to be worthy to attend the temple. sands of them, and thousands and every generation, including and espe- And our youth do not have to wait tens of thousands of men and women cially the youth of the Church. until a mission or marriage to visit the will go into those temples and offici- In order to perform this great temple. They can have temple experi- ate for people who have lived as far work, we must be worthy. No wonder ences beginning at age 12 by doing back as the Lord shall reveal.”7 we are surrounded on every side with baptisms and confirmations, and When I was young, my grandfather things designed to discourage, dis- these can continue throughout their Martin taught me that in the latter tract, or disqualify us. We must keep teen and adult years. Great blessings

90 will literally “be poured out upon the such a time as this.”13 They are intelli- might have the blessings of the heads” of those who are endowed in gent and bright. They are proficient restored gospel. It is my prayer that the temples, and a portion of these on computers and the Internet. They we might understand our role in this blessings will come to our youth as are a great untapped resource for great work and remain worthy to they live worthily to participate in the good in the world! They have been enter His holy temples. I know that if house of the Lord.10 reserved for these latter days, and they we will do this, the joyful day will The Salt Lake Temple baptistry is have a great work to do. And not only come when we shall meet our ances- a thrilling place to be on Saturday do they have a great work to do there, tors once again and be able to say to mornings! I was there early one but the temple will also be a refuge for them, “We did this for you.” In the morning to be baptized for some of them that will protect them from name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ my ancestors. As I sat waiting on the worldly pressures and influences. NOTES bench in the baptismal area, I noticed As I contemplate President Faust’s 1. D&C 138:48; see also D&C 27:9; that the young woman on my left was words, I can visualize an army of righ- 110:14–16; 128:17; 138:47. reading her patriarchal blessing. The teous youth prepared and worthy to 2. D&C 2:1–3. 3. Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. girl on my right was reading her scrip- attend the temple. I can see families Widtsoe (1954), 406. tures. I asked her if she had come sealed together for eternity. I can see 4. D&C 138:53; emphasis added. here with a group. Her reply was: youth who understand what it means 5. See D&C 138:55–56; emphasis added. 14 6. D&C 138:54. “No, I come with my friend every to be “saviours . . . on mount Zion.” 7. Discourses of Brigham Young, 394. Saturday. It makes my whole week go I can see youth whose hearts are 8. See www.lds.org; see also “Temples better.” These young women, along turned to their fathers.15 And I can throughout the World,” Friend, July 2002, 36–37. with many other young men and envision youth growing up in such 9. “Some Thoughts on Temples, Retention of women, know a grand secret—the a way that they will come forth from Converts, and Missionary Service,” Ensign, temple blesses not only our families’ the temples filled with strength to Nov. 1997, 50. 10. See D&C 110:9–10. 16 and ancestors’ lives, but also our own. resist worldly pressures. I can see 11. D&C 109:22. We are promised that those who are a generation of youth who will 12. “The Phenomenon That Is You,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 53–54; see also endowed in the temple will go forth “stand . . . in holy places, and be D&C 128:18. from that holy house “armed with thy not moved.”17 13. Esther 4:14. power, and that thy name may be Zina Baker Huntington, along with 14. Obadiah 1:21. 15. See D&C 2:1–3. upon them, and thy glory be round so many other faithful Saints, sacri- 16. See D&C 109:22. about them, and thine angels have ficed everything in order that we 17. D&C 87:8. charge over them.”11 These are great blessings and promises. What youth does not desire to prepare to receive these blessings in order to navigate in today’s ever-darkening world? When President Faust talked to the young men in the priesthood session last October, he called on them to lead out and become a part of temple and family history work. He said: “I encourage you . . . to begin to unlock the knowledge of who you really are by learning more about your fore- bears. . . . You can easily access a vast collection of family history records using the Internet on your home com- puter or at your nearest family history center. . . . Temple work is essential . . . because ‘we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect.’ ”12 The youth have been prepared “for

NOVEMBER 2004 91 take their weapons of war to defend themselves against their enemies; Keeping Our therefore they did assemble them- selves together at this time, as many as were able to take up arms, and they called themselves Nephites. Covenants “And they entered into a covenant to fight for the liberty of the Nephites, ELDER RICHARD J. MAYNES yea, to protect the land unto the lay- Of the Seventy ing down of their lives; yea, even they covenanted that they never would The most important thing we can do in this life is to keep give up their liberty. . . . the promises or covenants we have made with the Lord. “Now behold, there were two thousand of those young men, who entered into this covenant and took their weapons of war to defend their country. . . . In the midst of this dangerous and “And they were all young men, and chaotic situation, righteous men were they were exceedingly valiant for sought after to lead the Nephite courage, and also for strength and armies—men like Moroni and activity; but behold, this was not all— Helaman. These Nephite leaders they were men who were true at all understood that their nation’s ability times in whatsoever thing they were to defend itself was in direct propor- entrusted. tion to their obedience to the Lord. “Yea, they were men of truth and They constantly struggled to motivate soberness, for they had been taught the population to remember the Lord to keep the commandments of God and keep His commandments. and to walk uprightly before him. At this very critical point in time, “And now it came to pass that after many Nephite cities had been Helaman did march at the head of lost and the balance of power seemed his two thousand stripling soldiers, to be shifting towards the Lamanites, to the support of the people” (Alma a miraculous thing took place. A 53:16–18, 20–22). group of people, once Lamanites, Helaman and his 2,000 stripling rom ancient days to modern now known as Ammonites because soldiers fought valiantly to protect days, true disciples of Jesus they were converted to the gospel their families and their liberty. Their FChrist have understood the of Jesus Christ through the teachings entrance onto the field of battle importance of making and keeping of Ammon, came forward desirous to changed the course of the war. covenants with the Lord. take up arms in the defense of their Momentum swung back in favor In approximately 64 B.C., the newly inherited land, country, and of the Nephites. Nephite nation was living in extremely way of life (see Alma 53:13). In a letter written to Moroni, perilous times. Because of iniquity, The fathers of these Ammonite Helaman describes the faith and dissensions, and intrigue, they found families had previously made an oath courage these young men exhibited: themselves in the most dangerous of to the Lord never to take up arms “And now I say unto you, my circumstances (see Alma 53:9). The again. Helaman, the Nephite prophet, beloved brother Moroni, that never government teetered on the brink of counseled these men to keep their had I seen so great courage, nay, not collapse. The war with the Lamanite promise to the Lord (see Alma 53:15). amongst all the Nephites. . . . nation had been ongoing for years. Helaman relates what transpired after “Now they never had fought, yet Nephite dissidents were leaving to he shared that counsel: they did not fear death; and they did join forces with the enemy. Many “But behold, it came to pass they think more upon the liberty of their Nephite cities had been attacked and had many sons, who had not entered fathers than they did upon their lives; captured. into a covenant that they would not yea, they had been taught by their

92 mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them” (Alma 56:45, 47). Brothers and sisters, “they did not doubt, [and] God [did] deliver them.” In their first great battle, not one of the 2,000 was slain. After the battle, 60 more young Ammonite men joined the small army. Helaman tells us “they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them” (Alma 57:21). The second battle in which this small army was engaged was more intense than the first. In its aftermath Helaman writes: Above: Lani and Irenea Abasanta of “And it came to pass that there the Talisay Philippines Stake with 14 of were two hundred, out of my two their 17 children. Left: The Abasantas’ thousand and sixty, who had fainted missionary sons, Ammon, Omni, and because of the loss of blood; never- Omner. theless, according to the goodness of God, . . . there was not one soul of more I learned about them, the more them who did perish. . . . I was impressed with the fact that “And now, their preservation they truly understood what it meant was astonishing to our whole army, to keep covenants and live the gospel yea, . . . And we do justly ascribe it Maynes and I have been assigned to of Jesus Christ. to the miraculous power of God, serve in the Philippines. We have Brother Lani and Sister Irenea because of their exceeding faith” come across many examples of Abasanta joined the Church 22 years (Alma 57:25–26). Filipino families and individuals who ago. Together, they have had 17 chil- Helaman and his young stripling understand and keep the covenants dren. Among the 17 children is one soldiers understood the importance they have made with the Lord. Let me set of triplets. We all know that raising of making covenants with the Lord. share with you an experience that we a family is not an easy task anywhere They were also recipients of the bless- have had with one of these families. in the world, and the Philippines is no ings that come to those who faithfully A few months ago I was assigned exception. The Abasanta family is a liv- keep their covenants. to preside at the Talisay Philippines ing example that it can be done, and As members of The Church of Stake conference. During the Sunday it can be done in the right way. Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we general session, I began my talk by The successes they have enjoyed have also taken upon ourselves thanking the congregation for their raising their children in the Church sacred obligations. We have done this reverence. While speaking, I looked are made manifest in many ways. A in the waters of baptism and in the down to my left and saw a very large family of 19 sitting reverently through temples of the Lord. We call these family sitting a couple of rows back Church meetings is just one example. obligations covenants. Covenants are from the front of the chapel. I was Another example is illustrated by promises we make to the Lord. They impressed to point them out and use how they work hard and how they are extremely sacred in nature. The them as an example of a family who work together to meet their everyday most important thing we can do in understood and lived the principle of financial needs. Brother Abasanta this life is to keep the promises or reverence. The parents were sitting works as an electrician. Sister covenants we have made with the there surrounded by many, many rev- Abasanta, with the help of her daugh- Lord. When we keep our promises to erent children. ters, makes and sells jewelry out of the Lord, He allows us to progress Upon the completion of the meet- their home. Together, they have suc- spiritually. ing, we had the wonderful opportu- ceeded in providing the necessities of During the past two years, Sister nity to meet the Abasanta family. The life for their family.

NOVEMBER 2004 93 looking forward to the day when we can return home to our Heavenly Father. In order to qualify for exalta- tion in the celestial kingdom, we must gain the trust of the Lord here on earth. We gain the trust of the Lord through earning it, and that is accom- plished through our actual perform- ance in living His gospel and keeping our covenants. In other words, we earn the trust of the Lord by doing His will. Remember when the Lord warned Joseph Smith regarding those who “draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Joseph Smith—History 1:19). Remember the admonition of Even more important than their Abasanta stated: “We teach our chil- James: “But be ye doers of the word, example in supporting their large dren that the food we have is a direct and not hearers only” (James 1:22). family financially is how they teach result of paying tithing. When our kids Actions truly do speak louder than their children to live the gospel of have their own work, we make sure to words. In fact, actions mean much Jesus Christ. Their regular family tell them that they need to pay their more to the Lord than words. The home evenings play an essential tithing. It’s hard to provide for so Lord declared in the Doctrine and part in the teaching of their family. many children, but when I pay my Covenants, “If thou lovest me thou Referring to their family home tithing faithfully and honestly, it’s not shalt serve me and keep all my com- evenings, Brother Abasanta explained, hard at all. We just trust in the Lord mandments” (D&C 42:29). “First we discuss any problems we 100 percent that if we pay an honest Helaman and his young stripling might have in the family and how we tithing, we’ll be able to eat daily.” soldiers are an ancient illustration of can become more united; then there Remember that I mentioned that the blessings that come to those who is a spiritual thought or lesson; then Brother and Sister Abasanta have 17 faithfully keep their promises to the we play games.” children. Now, let me tell you about Lord. The Abasanta family is a modern- At a recent family home evening, the triplets. They happen to be all day example of a family doing their Brother Abasanta used the Liahona boys. They happen to be 19 years old. best to keep their covenants and live magazine as a tool to help him teach Their names are Ammon, Omni, and the principles of the gospel of Jesus his children not to spend so much Omner. Yes, you guessed it. All three Christ. time watching television but instead are serving the Lord as faithful and All members of The Church of to use that time doing something of hard-working full-time missionaries. Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have greater worth, like homework or Ammon is serving in the Philippines made promises to the Lord. We have reading the scriptures. Over the years Baguio Mission, Omni is serving in promised to take upon ourselves the during family home evenings the chil- the Philippines Davao Mission, and name of Jesus Christ, always remem- dren have been taught to practice Omner is serving in the Philippines ber Him, and keep His command- being reverent. Because their children Manila Mission. ments (see D&C 20:77). Faithful have been taught to be reverent in Now I do not want you to get the members of the Church keep those their home, it is easier for them to impression that the Abasanta family promises. demonstrate reverence at church on is perfect. None of us are perfect. It is my prayer today that we might Sunday. However, by trying their best to live all recommit ourselves to do every- Another example of living the the commandments and keep their thing in our power to earn the trust gospel and keeping their covenants is covenants, the Abasanta family is able of the Lord by doing His will, by living the priority they have given in teaching to enjoy the blessings of the Lord in His gospel, and by keeping our their children the importance of pay- their lives. covenants, in the name of Jesus ing an honest and full tithing. Brother Brothers and sisters, we are all Christ, amen. ■

94 the Spirit, left a deep impression upon my mind. Remember I remember the summer before entering college having the chance to go to Monument Valley to work on the first high school built there for the the Teachings Navajo people. As I was about to leave home, my father asked me if I was going to take my Book of Mormon. I of Your Father hadn’t thought to, but I paid heed to his question. I remember lying in my ELDER H. BRYAN RICHARDS bunk late at night at the construction Of the Seventy site and feeling the spirit and power of the Book of Mormon. I remember as a young missionary The Book of Mormon can and does change lives. in the Great Lakes Mission coming to that great knowledge and absolute tes- timony that the Book of Mormon was another witness of another nation that father was leaving for a Church meet- Jesus is the Christ and this Church is ing. I stopped him and asked, “Dad, true. From those experiences there how do we really know that Joseph burns in my heart today that divine Smith had that vision?” My father put witness of the message of the Book of his arm around me, and we sat on the Mormon, of Christ as our Savior and sofa in our living room. There he Redeemer, and of the Restoration of shared with me the Prophet Joseph’s His Church in these latter days. account, and my father bore his own I want to share with you some of testimony of its truthfulness. That the great blessings the Book of experience with my father burns in Mormon can bring to us. The Book of my heart today. Since then I have Mormon can and does change lives. never doubted the Prophet Joseph’s After our son John received his mis- account of his First Vision. sion call to Japan, he said to me, Over my teenage years, I remem- “Dad, before I enter the Missionary ber vividly my father’s regular study of Training Center, I am going to read the Book of Mormon. His love of the the Book of Mormon twice.” I said to Book of Mormon and counsel to me John, “That is quite a demanding n January 10, 1945, I received to study and ponder over it were the goal.” I felt his resolve and made the my patriarchal blessing from beginning of a journey with that decision to follow his example. I Omy father’s mission president, sacred record that is the foundation began reading early each morning. A John M. Knight. It was the only time I of my personal testimony today. It is a few days later when I came home ever met him. After he pronounced journey each of us must take. from work, John said to me, “I caught my lineage, his next words—the first Others along the way helped me up with you today.” I asked, “What do words of counsel in my blessing— on my personal journey with the you mean?” His response, “I caught were “Remember the teachings of Book of Mormon. My first seminary up to where you are in the Book of your father.” That counsel has been teacher shared her experience as a Mormon. You left it open on your and continues to be a great blessing young missionary wanting to know if desk.” The next morning after my in my life. the Book of Mormon was true. She reading, I felt inspired to turn about Not long after receiving my bless- told of reading King Benjamin’s 150 pages past where I was. I left my ing, I came home from Sunday speech and in her mind’s eye seeing Book of Mormon open where he School. Our lesson had been about King Benjamin standing on his tower could not miss it and went to work. Joseph Smith’s First Vision, and I was and hearing him deliver that great ser- After a meeting that morning, I wondering if it was really true. My mon. Her testimony, accompanied by checked my voice mail. The very first

NOVEMBER 2004 95 message said, “Yeah, sure, Dad!” read nor hear the words, she felt the astonishing to our whole army. . . . Why this story? As I watched my spirit and power of the Book of And we do justly ascribe it to the son read from the Book of Mormon, Mormon, and it changed her life. miraculous power of God, because of I began to see a special change in I have come to love the message their exceeding faith in that which his life as he prepared to enter the of the Book of Mormon. To help each they had been taught to believe” Missionary Training Center. That of you feel the power and spirit of the (Alma 57:20–21, 26). experience has anchored my son Book of Mormon and, I hope, help If I were to ask you who it was that to the gospel of Jesus Christ. you along your journey, may I give to taught these great young warriors, all I recall an experience with a zone you three invitations? of you would know the answer—their leader in England who came to me First, I’d like to refer to the story mothers. My first invitation to you is during the lunch break at zone confer- of Helaman and his 2,060 stripling to find out what their mothers taught ence. He said, “We are teaching a lady warriors: them. who is blind and nearly deaf. She “And as the remainder of our army Second, we are familiar with Alma’s wants to know if the Book of Mormon were about to give way before the teaching on faith, challenging the is true. What shall we do?” I did not Lamanites, behold, those two thou- people: have an answer at that moment, but I sand and sixty were firm and “Behold, if ye will awake and said, “I will let you know after our con- undaunted. arouse your faculties, even to an ference.” During the afternoon session “Yea, and they did obey and observe experiment upon my words, and exer- I had the distinct impression come as to perform every word of command cise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye to how to help her. After the meeting with exactness; yea, and even accord- can no more than desire to believe, I said to the zone leader, “Have this ing to their faith it was done unto let this desire work in you. . . . sister hold her copy of the Book of them; and I did remember the words “Now, we will compare the word Mormon and turn its pages very slowly. which they said unto me that their unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that When she has done this, have her ask mothers had taught them. . . . a seed may be planted in your heart, if it is true.” Though she could not “And now, their preservation was behold, if it be a true seed, or a good

96 seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed. . . . “Therefore, if a seed groweth it is good, but if it groweth not, behold it is not good, therefore it is cast away” (Alma 32:27–28, 32). My second invitation to you is to discover specifically what the word, or seed, is and plant it in your heart. You will have to go to Alma, chapter 33 to find it. When you do, your faith will take on a whole new dimension. Third, if you were going to teach your children three great truths that you would want them to remember, what would they be? Helaman asked his sons Lehi and Nephi to remember three great truths “that ye may do these things to lay up for yourselves a treasure in heaven, . . . that ye may A father and daughter arrive at the stake center in Helsinki, Finland, for a have that precious gift of eternal life” general conference broadcast. (Helaman 5:8). My third invitation to you is to find out what Helaman introduction to that book: continues to fight against the Book of asked his sons to remember and then “We invite all men everywhere to Mormon is because of those three to teach those things to your chil- read the Book of Mormon, to ponder divine truths. He does not want us to dren. I’ll help you this much. Read in their hearts the message it con- come to that sacred knowledge. and ponder Helaman, chapter 5. tains, and then to ask God, the “Remember the teachings of your Why is it that tremendous opposi- Eternal Father, in the name of Christ father.” I will ever be grateful for my tion was directed at the Book of if the book is true. Those who pursue father. Though he has been gone for Mormon even before its translation this course and ask in faith will gain nearly 30 years, his teachings con- and has continued even until today? a testimony of its truth and divinity tinue to live in my heart. I am grateful In this regard, Elder Bruce R. by the power of the Holy Ghost. that for a season of my life I have the McConkie wrote: “What is it about (See Moroni 10:3–5.)” privilege of being an especial witness some words on a printed page—all of Now listen carefully: of Christ. Because of the Book of which are clean and uplifting and per- “Those who gain this divine wit- Mormon, its message, and the divine tain to historical and doctrinal mat- ness from the Holy Spirit will also witness I have received, I can leave ters—that arouses such violent come to know by the same power you my witness that Jesus is the antagonisms? . . . Why do men that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God oppose the Book of Mormon? For world, that Joseph Smith is his revela- the Father in the flesh. He finished precisely the same reason they tor and prophet in these last days, the work of the infinite and eternal oppose Joseph Smith” (A New and that The Church of Jesus Christ Atonement. Christ will come again Witness for the Articles of Faith of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s king- and rule over us as Lord of lords and [1985], 459, 461). dom once again established on the King of kings. Of Him and of this The reason Satan desperately earth, preparatory to the second com- work, I leave you my solemn witness, fights the Book of Mormon is found ing of the Messiah.” in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, in the last two paragraphs of the The reason Satan has fought and amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 97 been more difficult. It is hard to say no to more when you can afford to More Holiness say yes. Parents are rightfully anxious about the future. It is difficult to say no to more sports equipment, Give Me electronics, lessons, clothes, team participation, et cetera, when parents BISHOP H. DAVID BURTON believe more will help children thrive Presiding Bishop in an increasingly competitive world. Young people seem to want more, It is important for families and individuals to aggressively partly because there is infinitely more seek more of the virtues which go beyond this mortal life. to catch their eye. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimated that American children see more than 40,000 commercials a year. Fewer and fewer parents ask their nurturing that has brightened and children to do chores around the blessed my soul. house because they think they are The current conventional wisdom already overwhelmed by social and is that more is better and less is usu- academic pressures. But children ally undesirable. For some, the pursuit devoid of responsibilities risk never to acquire more of this world’s goods learning that every individual can be and services has become a passion. of service and that life has meaning For others, more of this world’s beyond their own happiness. wealth is necessary just to sustain life In her book My Grandfather’s or raise living standards to a minimum Blessings, Dr. Rachel Remen tells of level. The unbridled desire for more becoming good friends with a couple often has tragic consequences. For and their young son, Kenny. When example, President Boyd K. Packer she visited, she would sit on the reminded us: “We could be like a floor with Kenny and play with his father determined to provide every- two Hot Wheels cars. Sometimes she thing for his family. He devotes every would have the one without a fender energy to that end and succeeds; only and he had the one with a door miss- ister Burton and I were inter- then does he discover that what they ing and sometimes vice versa. He viewed prior to our marriage needed most, to be together as a fam- loved those cars! Sby Elder Richards’s father. We ily, has been neglected. And he reaps When a gas station chain offered a know of what Elder Richards has spo- sorrow in place of contentment” Hot Wheels car with every fill-up, she ken in this session of conference. (“Parents in Zion,” Liahona, Jan. 1999, recruited the staff at her clinic to go to At a recent stake conference, a 25; Ensign, Nov. 1998, 22). that particular station and collect the young lady came up to me at the con- Parents who have been successful cars. As soon as she had all of the clusion. As we were shaking hands, in acquiring more often have a diffi- models, she wrapped them in a big she said, “Bishop, you could improve cult time saying no to the demands of box to take to Kenny. She hoped she your general conference talks by smil- overindulged children. Their children wouldn’t offend his parents, who ing.” I wanted to tell her about fear run the risk of not learning important lived quite meagerly. Kenny excitedly and smiling, but I didn’t have time. values like hard work, delayed gratifi- opened the big box and took out the But I’ll try and hope for the best. cation, honesty, and compassion. cars one by one. They filled the win- At the conclusion of every general Affluent parents can and do raise well- dowsills and even extended to the conference, I experience a longing adjusted, loving, and value-centered floor. What a collection! Later, while for more—more of the serenity of children, but the struggle to set limits, visiting the family, Rachel noticed the occasion, more of the compan- make do with less, and avoid the pit- Kenny just staring out the window. ionship of the Spirit, more of the falls of “more, more, more” has never When she asked Kenny, “What’s the

98 matter? Don’t you like your new cars?” the Lord, . . . [and to] observe the no. 131) brings to our remembrance he looked down very sheepishly. “I’m Sabbath day [and] keep it holy” the virtues worthy of more of our sorry, Rachel. I guess I just don’t know (D&C 68:25, 28–29). attention. Jesus Himself described how to love so many Hot Wheels.” The meaning of more and less is what it requires to be “more, Savior, (See “Owning” [2000], 60–61.) not always crystal clear. There are like thee.” He said, “I would that ye We have all heard children, after times when less is in reality more and should be perfect even as I, or your they have opened many Christmas times when more can be less. For Father who is in heaven is perfect” or birthday gifts, say, “Isn’t there instance, less pursuit of materialism (3 Nephi 12:48). more?” With all the challenges pres- may enable more family togetherness. Meekness is vital to becoming ent in this “more generation,” there More indulgence of children may more Christlike. Without it one can- remains divine counsel to teach our result in less understanding of life’s not develop other important virtues. children “to understand the doctrine important values. Mormon indicated, “None is accept- of repentance, faith in Christ the Son Some aspects of life can be signifi- able before God, save the meek and of the living God, and of baptism and cantly enhanced by the notion that lowly in heart” (Moroni 7:44). Acquir- the gift of the Holy Ghost, . . . to more is better. The sacred hymn ing meekness is a process. We are pray, and to walk uprightly before “More Holiness Give Me” (Hymns, asked to “take up [the] cross daily” (Luke 9:23). Our lifting should not be an occasional exercise. More meek- ness does not translate to weakness, but “it is the presentation of self in a posture of kindness and gentleness. It reflects certitude, strength, seren- ity; it reflects a healthy self-esteem and a genuine self-control” (Neal A. Maxwell, “Meekly Drenched in Destiny,” in Brigham Young Univer- sity 1982–83 Fireside and Devotional Speeches [1983], 2). More meekness will allow us to be tutored by the Spirit. The virtues expressed in “More Holiness Give Me” fall into several groups. Some are personal goals, like more holiness give me; more strivings within; more faith, gratitude, and purity; more fit for the kingdom; more purpose in prayer; and more trust in the Lord. Others center on adversity. They include patience in suffering, meekness in trial, praise for relief, strength to overcome, freedom from earth stains, and longing for home. The rest firmly anchor us to our Savior: more sense of His care; more pride in His glory; more hope in His word; more joy in His service; more tears for His sorrows; more pain at His grief; more blessed and holy; and more, Savior, like Thee. More of these virtues is better. Less is not desirable. Many experience joy in His service by teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ

NOVEMBER 2004 99 and its Restoration and testifying of the discussions? Is it possible Elder and the policemen, expressed appre- the Savior and His life, ministry, and Parker came to understand the need ciation that the Latter-day Saints had Atonement. to offer prayers with a purpose? Do been assigned to help their families in A missionary district leader was you suppose his prayers were laced their absence. wondering why Elder Parker, who was with pleas to garner more strength to All of this was accomplished at the about to conclude his mission, was overcome? Might the inability to same time Hurricane Jeanne was successful in spite of his inability to memorize have brought patience in coming ashore after causing much memorize the discussions. To under- suffering and meekness in trial? Did distress in Haiti and other Caribbean stand, he teamed with Elder Parker to he demonstrate great faith in the locations. Thanks again to those of give a discussion. Elder Parker’s pres- Savior and trust in the Lord? Most cer- you who give of your means and entation was so disorganized that by tainly he did! those whose hands have lightened the end of the formal lesson, the dis- Over the last seven weeks, four the load of so many. I salute you for trict leader was confused and sur- major hurricanes have come ashore your desire to be more blessed and mised that the family being taught felt in Florida and along the Gulf of holy and more like the Savior. This the same way. Mexico. Most nations of the weekend 2,500 will be helping with It was then that “Elder Parker Caribbean have experienced exten- the aftermath of Hurricane Jeanne. leaned forward and put his hand on sive devastation. Food, clothing, and In discussing our various longings the arm of the family’s father. He then shelter are in short supply. Large for more, I’m not suggesting we looked him straight in the eyes, told masses of debris clog roads and adopt Scrooge as a role model for him how much he loved him and his yards. Local infrastructure has been good parenting. I am suggesting that family, and bore one of the most hum- destroyed or needs major repair. it is important for families and indi- ble and powerful testimonies that the Last week I was in Tallahassee, viduals to aggressively seek more of district leader had ever heard. By the Florida, and received many expres- the virtues which go beyond this time he finished, every member of sions of appreciation for the aid fur- mortal life. A prayerful, conservative the family, including the father, and nished by the Church during these approach is the key to successfully both elders had tears running down emergencies. Florida Governor Bush, living in an affluent society and build- their cheeks. Next Elder Parker taught Lieutenant Governor Toni Jennings, ing the qualities that come from wait- the father how to pray, and they all partners like the Red Cross and ing, sharing, saving, working hard, knelt down while the father prayed Salvation Army, along with federal and and making do with what we have. that they might receive testimonies state emergency personnel expressed May we be blessed with the desire of their own and thanked Heavenly gratitude that I pass on to you who and the ability to understand when Father for the great love that he felt. performed the labor to ease the bur- more is really less and when more Two weeks later the whole family was den of cleanup and to those who is better. In the holy name of Jesus baptized.” have contributed to the Church’s Christ, amen. ■ Later, Elder Parker apologized to Humanitarian Fund. Thank you. I his district leader for not knowing the trust you have felt more joy and more discussions. He said he struggled with used in His service. memorization, even though he spent Following the pattern of previous hours each day working on it. He said weekends at different locations, over he knelt in prayer before teaching 2,000 volunteers from all over the each family and asked Heavenly southeastern United States gathered Father to bless him when he bore his in Pensacola, Florida, last weekend to testimony so that people would feel help with the aftermath of Hurricane his love and the Spirit and know they Ivan. They rolled out their sleeping were being taught the truth (see bags on meetinghouse floors, in other Allan K. Burgess and Max H. Molgard, churches, and in members’ homes. “That Is the Worst Lesson I’ve Ever They responded to thousands of work Heard!” in Sunshine for the Latter- orders to assist wherever they were day Saint Soul [1998], 181–83). needed. Missionaries participated by What can we glean from this sim- covering the roof of the local Methodist ple story? Do you think Elder Parker church with the ever-present blue felt the need to strive more to learn tarps. First responders, the firemen

100 him, and continue in fasting and pray- ing, and endure to the end; and as Press On the Lord liveth [we] will be saved.”4 Enduring to the end means that ELDER JOSEPH B. WIRTHLIN we have planted our lives firmly on Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gospel soil, staying in the mainstream of the Church, humbly serving our fel- low men, living Christlike lives, and There is one thing the Lord expects of us no matter keeping our covenants. Those who our difficulties and sorrows: He expects us to press on. endure are balanced, consistent, humble, constantly improving, and without guile. Their testimony is not based on worldly reasons—it is based eternities to come. Though our trials on truth, knowledge, experience, and are diverse, there is one thing the the Spirit. Lord expects of us no matter our diffi- culties and sorrows: He expects us to The Parable of the Sower press on. The Lord Jesus Christ uses the sim- ple parable of the sower to teach the The Doctrine of Enduring to the End doctrine of enduring to the end. The gospel of Jesus Christ includes “The sower soweth the word. enduring to the end as one of its “And these are they by the way bedrock doctrines. Jesus taught, side, where the word is sown; but “He that shall endure unto the end, when they have heard, Satan cometh the same shall be saved.”1 And, “If ye immediately, and taketh away the continue in my word, then are ye my word that was sown in their hearts. disciples indeed.”2 Some think of en- “And these are they likewise which during to the end as simply suffering are sown on stony ground; who, through challenges. It is so much when they have heard the word, more than that—it is the process of immediately receive it with gladness; have lived long enough to coming unto Christ and being per- “And have no root in themselves, experience firsthand many of fected in Him. and so endure but for a time: after- I the challenges of life. I have The Book of Mormon prophet ward, when affliction or persecution known exceptional people who have Nephi taught: “Wherefore, ye must ariseth for the word’s sake, immedi- endured severe trials while others, at press forward with a steadfastness in ately they are offended. least on the surface, seem to have Christ, having a perfect brightness of “And these are they which are lived charmed lives. hope, and a love of God and of all sown among thorns; such as hear the Often those who struggle with men. Wherefore, if ye shall press word, adversity ask the question “Why did forward, feasting upon the word “And the cares of this world, and this happen to me?” They spend of Christ, and endure to the end, the deceitfulness of riches, and the sleepless nights wondering why they behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall lusts of other things entering in, feel so lonely, sick, discouraged, have eternal life.”3 choke the word, and it becometh oppressed, or brokenhearted. Enduring to the end is the doctrine unfruitful. The question “Why me?” can be a of continuing on the path leading to “And these are they which are difficult one to answer and often leads eternal life after one has entered into sown on good ground; such as hear to frustration and despair. There is a the path through faith, repentance, the word, and receive it, and bring better question to ask ourselves. That baptism, and receiving the Holy forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some question is “What could I learn from Ghost. Enduring to the end requires sixty, and some an hundred.”5 this experience?” our whole heart or, as the Book of This parable describes the The way we answer that question Mormon prophet Amaleki teaches, types of soil onto which seeds of may determine the quality of our lives we must “come unto him, and offer truth are sown and nourished. Each not only on this earth but also in the [our] whole souls as an offering unto type of soil represents our degree

NOVEMBER 2004 101 of commitment and ability to endure. “the cares of the world,” is essentially should ultimately be the building up The first type of soil, that of the pride.6 Pride rears its ugly head in so of the kingdom of God. I feel that “way side,” represents those who hear many ways that are destructive. For some are so concerned about the the gospel but never give the truth a example, intellectual pride is very type of car they drive, the expensive chance to take root. prevalent in our day. Some people clothes they wear, or the size of their The second type of soil, “stony exalt themselves above God and His house in comparison to others that ground,” represents those in the anointed servants because of their they lose sight of the weightier mat- Church who, at the first sign of sacri- learning and scholarly achievements. ters.8 We must be careful in our daily fice or trial, run away offended, not We must never allow our intellect to lives that we do not allow the things willing to pay the price. take priority over our spirit. Our intel- of this world to take precedence over The third type of soil, “sown lect can feed our spirit and our spirit spiritual things. among thorns,” represents some can feed our intellect, but if we allow The third obstacle to endurance members of the Church who are dis- our intellect to take precedence over mentioned by the Savior is “the lusts tracted and obsessed by the cares, our spirit, we will stumble, find fault, of other [things].” The plague of riches, and lusts of the world. and may even lose our testimonies. pornography is swirling about us as Finally, those on “good ground” are Knowledge is very important and never before. Pornography brings a those members of the Church whose one of the few things that accompa- vicious wake of immorality, broken lives reflect their discipleship to the nies us into the next life.7 We should homes, and broken lives. Pornography Master, whose roots go deep into always be learning. However, we must will sap spiritual strength to endure. gospel soil, and thereby produce be careful not to set aside our faith in Pornography is much like quicksand. abundant fruit. the process, because faith actually You can become so easily trapped and In the parable of the sower, the enhances our ability to learn. overcome as soon as you step into it Savior identifies three obstacles to The second obstacle to endurance that you do not realize the severe endurance which can canker our is “the deceitfulness of riches.” We danger. Most likely you will need souls and stop our eternal progress. should end our fixation on wealth. It assistance to get out of the quick- The first obstacle of endurance, is only a means to an end, which end sand of pornography. But how much better it is never to step into it. I plead with you to be careful and cautious.

Enduring to the End Is a Principle for All A few weeks before President Heber J. Grant passed away, one of the Brethren went to visit him in his home. Before the man left, President Grant prayed, “O God, bless me that I shall not lose my testimony and keep faithful to the end!”9 Can you imagine President Grant, one of the great prophets of the Restoration, the President of the Church for nearly 27 years, praying that he would keep faithful to the end? No one is immune from Satan’s influence and temptations. Do not be so proud to think that you are beyond the adversary’s influence. Be watchful that you do not fall prey to his decep- tions. Stay close to the Lord through daily scripture study and daily prayer. We cannot afford to sit back and take

102 with the disease and we fasted and prayed as much as we thought it wis- dom as we had many duties to per- form here. We fasted [for] twenty-four hours and once I fasted [for] forty hours, but to no avail, for both my lit- tle girls died also. About a week after their death my fifteen year old daugh- ter Melinda was [also] stricken down and we did all we could for her but she [soon] followed the others. . . . Three of my dear girls and one boy [have] been taken from us, and the end is not yet. My oldest girl nineteen years old is now prostrate [from] the disease, and we are fasting and pray- ing in her behalf today. . . . I would ask for your faith and prayers in our our salvation for granted. We must be Therefore, brothers and sisters, we behalf however. What have we done anxiously engaged our whole lives.10 must press on and eventually become that the Lord has left us, and what can These words of President Brigham more like the Lord in the process. We we do to gain his favor again[?]” Young motivate and remind us that all know those who have faced great A short time later, Brother Johnson we can never give up the fight to trials in life and have endured faithfully. wrote a local leader and friend, endure: “The men and women, who One inspiring example is from an early expressing his faith to press on: desire to obtain seats in the celestial Saint of the 19th century, Warren M. “It is the hardest trial of my life, but kingdom, will find that they must bat- Johnson. He was assigned by Church I set out for salvation and am deter- tle every day [for this sacred goal].”11 leaders to operate Lee’s Ferry, an mined that . . . through the help of important crossing over the Colorado Heavenly Father that I [would] hold Strength to Endure River in the desert of northern fast to the iron rod no matter what I know there are many that suffer Arizona. Brother Johnson endured troubles [came] upon me. I have not heartbreak, loneliness, pain, and set- great challenges yet remained faith- slackened in the performance of my back. These experiences are a neces- ful his entire life. Listen to Brother duties, and hope and trust that I shall sary part of the human experience. Johnson explain his family tragedy in a have the faith and prayers of my However, please do not lose hope in letter to President Wilford Woodruff: brethren, that I can live so as to the Savior and His love for you. It is “In May 1891 a family . . . came receive the blessings.”14 constant. He promised that He would here [to Lee’s Ferry] from Richfield Though heavy trials of Brother not leave us comfortless.12 Utah, where they . . . spent the winter Johnson can help us to face our own When we face challenges in our visiting friends. At Panguitch they challenges, may I suggest three attrib- lives, we are comforted by the words buried a child, . . . without [cleaning] utes to foster endurance in our day. of the Lord in the 58th section of the the wagon or themselves. . . . They First, testimony. Testimony gives us Doctrine and Covenants: came to our house, and remained the eternal perspective necessary to “Ye cannot behold with your natu- overnight, mingling with my little see past the trials or challenges we ral eyes, for the present time, the children. . . . will inevitably face. Remember what design of your God concerning those “We knew nothing of the nature of Heber C. Kimball prophesied: things which shall come hereafter, the disease [diphtheria], but had faith “The time will come when no man and the glory which shall follow after in God, as we were here on a very nor woman will be able to endure on much tribulation. hard mission, and had tried as hard as borrowed light. Each will have to be “For after much tribulation come we knew how to obey the [command- guided by the light within himself. . . . the blessings. Wherefore the day ments] . . . that our children would be “. . . If you don’t have it you will cometh that ye shall be crowned with spared. But alas, in four and a half not stand; therefore seek for the much glory; the hour is not yet, but is days [the oldest boy died] in my testimony of Jesus and cleave to it, nigh at hand.”13 arms. Two more were taken down that when the trying time comes

NOVEMBER 2004 103 you may not stumble and fall.”15 Second, humility. Humility is the recognition and attitude that one must Closing Remarks rely on the Lord’s assistance to make it through this life. We cannot endure to PRESIDENT GORDON B. HINCKLEY the end on our own strength. Without Him, we are nothing.16 Third, repentance. The glorious I would hope that we might go to the house of the Lord gift of repentance allows us to return a little more frequently. to the path with a new heart, giving us the strength to endure on the path leading to eternal life. The sacrament thus becomes a key component of Where we have felt defeated and our endurance in this life. The sacra- beaten, I hope that a new courage has ment provides a precious weekly come into our lives. Where we have opportunity to renew our baptismal been wayward and indifferent, I hope covenants and repent and evaluate that a spirit of repentance has taken our progress toward exaltation. hold of us. Where we have been We are sons and daughters of the unkind or mean and selfish, I hope Eternal God, with the potential to be that we have determined that we will joint-heirs with Christ.17 Knowing who change. All who walk in faith will have we are, we should never give up the had that faith strengthened. goal of achieving our eternal destiny. Today is Monday in the Far East. I testify that in the eternities, as we Tomorrow is Monday in the Western look back upon our little span of exis- Hemisphere and in Europe. It is a tence here on this earth, we will lift time that we have designated as fam- our voices and rejoice that, in spite of ily home evening. On that occasion I the difficulties we encountered, we hope that fathers and mothers will had the wisdom, the faith, and the gather their children about them and courage to endure and press on. e have experienced another talk of some of the things they have That we may do so this day and great conference. What heard in this conference. I would wish forever is my prayer, in the name of Wremarkable meetings these they might even write down some of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ are. What a great purpose they serve. these things, reflect on them, and

NOTES We gather together in a spirit of wor- remember them. 1. Matthew 24:13. ship and with a desire to learn. We Now as we conclude I wish to 2. John 8:31. renew our relationships as members remind you of another matter. I 3. 2 Nephi 31:20. 4. Omni 1:26. of this large family of Latter-day Saints would hope that we might go to the 5. Mark 4:14–20. who live in many lands, who speak a house of the Lord a little more fre- 6. See Ezra Taft Benson, in Conference variety of languages, who come out of quently. As I indicated at the opening Report, Apr. 1989, 3–7; or Ensign, May 1989, 4–6. difficult cultures, who even look dif- session, we have done all that we 7. See D&C 130:18–19. ferent. And we recognize that we are know how to do to bring temples 8. See Matthew 23:23. all one, each a son or daughter of our closer to our people. There are still 9. Quoted by John Longden, in Conference Report, Oct. 1958, 70. Father in Heaven. many who have to travel long dis- 10. See D&C 58:27. In a few minutes this great tances. I hope they will continue to 11. Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe (1954), 392. Conference Center in Salt Lake City make that effort until such time as a 12. See John 14:18. will be emptied. The lights will be temple is justified in their midst. 13. D&C 58:3–4. dimmed and the doors locked. It will Most of our temples could be 14. Quoted in Jay A. Parry and others, eds., Best-Loved Stories of the LDS People, 3 vols. be so with thousands of other halls much busier than they are. In this (1997–2000), 3:107–8. across this broad world. We shall noisy, bustling, competitive world, 15. In Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. return to our homes, greatly enriched what a privilege it is to have a sacred Kimball (1945), 450. 16. See John 15:5. I hope. Our faith will have been house where we may experience the 17. See Romans 8:17. strengthened, our resolve fortified. sanctifying influence of the Spirit of

104 the Lord. The element of selfishness something is done in their behalf by Here we can reflect on the great crowds in upon us constantly. We those on earth. goodness of the Lord to us. Here we need to overcome it, and there is no And so, my brothers and sisters, I can reflect on the great plan of happi- better way than to go to the house of encourage you to take greater advan- ness which our Father has outlined the Lord and there serve in a vicari- tage of this blessed privilege. It will for His children. And so I urge you, ous relationship in behalf of those refine your natures. It will peel off the my brothers and sisters, do it while who are beyond the veil of death. selfish shell in which most of us live. you have strength to do it. I know What a remarkable thing this is. In It will literally bring a sanctifying ele- that when you get old, it becomes most cases, we do not know those ment into our lives and make us bet- extremely difficult to get up and for whom we work. We expect no ter men and better women. down. But what a great blessing it is. thanks. We have no assurance that Every temple, large or small, has its Now, my brothers and sisters, I they will accept that which we offer. beautiful celestial room. This room express to you again my love. May But we go, and in that process we was created to represent the celestial heaven smile upon you. This work is attain to a state that comes of no kingdom. When the Mesa Arizona true. Never doubt it. God our Eternal other effort. We literally become sav- Temple was extensively renovated Father lives. Jesus is our Redeemer, iors on Mount Zion. What does this some years ago and was opened for our Lord, the Son of the living God. mean? Just as our Redeemer gave public tours, one visitor described the Joseph was a prophet, the Book of His life as a vicarious sacrifice for all celestial room as God’s living room. Mormon is of divine origin, and this is men, and in so doing became our So it well might be. It is our privilege, God’s holy work in the earth. I leave Savior, even so we, in a small meas- unique and exclusive, while dressed you my witness, my love, my blessing ure, when we engage in proxy work in white, to sit at the conclusion of as we separate to go to our homes. in the temple, become as saviors our ordinance work in the beautiful May God be with you till we meet to those on the other side who celestial room and ponder, meditate, again is my humble prayer, in the have no means of advancing unless and silently pray. sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 105 GENERAL RELIEF SOCIETY MEETING 25 September 2004

voice, [our] strength will be incalcula- ble.”6 As sisters in Zion, how do we Belonging Is Our become one? The same way we belong to a spouse or to a family: we share who we are—our feelings, our thoughts, our hearts. Sacred Birthright In one ward, mothers introduce their daughters to Relief Society in a BONNIE D. PARKIN Sunday meeting when they turn 18. Relief Society General President One mother tenderly expressed how her Relief Society sisters had nurtured I testify that you do fit, that you do belong to Relief Society— her from her early marriage: “They the Good Shepherd’s fold for women. have brought meals and hugs in time of sorrow, laughter, and support for celebration. They have taught me the gospel by visiting me and letting me visit them. They have allowed me to poor, too intelligent or too under- make mistakes on their time.” This educated, none of us is too different mother then explained to her daugh- to belong! If I could have my heart’s ter how the daisies in their garden desire, it would be that every one of came from Carolyn, the lilies from you feel like you fit, like you belong. Venice, the buttercups from Pauline. I testify that you do fit, that you do The daughter was amazed. Her belong to Relief Society—the Good mother replied, “These women are Shepherd’s fold for women. my sisters in every way, and I am I empathize with President grateful to bring you into their care.” Joseph F. Smith when he said back in It’s the variety in a garden that con- 1907, “Today it is too much the case tributes to its beauty—we need that our young, vigorous, intelligent daisies and lilies and buttercups; we women feel that only the aged should need gardeners who water, nurture, be connected with the Relief Society.” and care. Unfortunately, Satan knows Then he declared, “This is a mistake.”2 that sharing unites our sisterhood I recently visited Ethiopia, where I through the everyday and the eterni- met Jennifer Smith. If ever a woman ties. He knows that selfishness will isters, I rejoice that we’re could say she didn’t fit, it was Sister begin to destroy sharing, which together tonight. Thanks for Smith. She said: “I was so unlike any destroys unity, which destroys Zion. Syour countless acts of compas- other [sister] in our branch. Language, Sisters, we cannot let the adversary sion, your ever-expanding testi- clothing, culture, all seemed to be [a] divide us. You see, “A perfect one- monies, your endless supply of gap [between us. But] when we spoke ness,” said Brigham Young, “will save casseroles! You make a difference and of the Savior . . . the gap narrowed. a people.”7 And I would add that a are sunshine for the soul! When we spoke of a loving Heavenly perfect oneness will save our society. In these perilous times, I find com- Father . . . , there was no gap.” She We are reminded by President fort in the promise that “if [we] are continued, “We cannot change nor Boyd K. Packer that “too many prepared [we] shall not fear.”1 Relief take away the burdens of others, but sisters . . . think that Relief Society is Society helps us be prepared—not we can include and belong to each merely a class to attend. . . . Sisters,” just temporally, but spiritually. But other in love.”3 he counseled, “you must graduate Relief Society cannot help in our These sisters found a piece of from thinking that you only attend preparation without our participation! Zion by becoming “of one heart and Relief Society to feeling that you I worry that some of you feel you one mind.”4 For “if ye are not one,” belong to it!”8 Our sense of belonging don’t fit in Relief Society, that you says the Lord, “ye are not mine.”5 begins on Sunday as we hear each don’t belong! Whether you feel too President Hinckley has said that if we other’s voices. No teacher should give young or too old, too rich or too “will be united and speak with one her lesson to a group of silent sisters,

106 because the lesson is our lesson. sorry if that’s been so. But you don’t Sisters, we can have no divisions in Belonging is being needed, loved, have to be visit taught to be a good Relief Society; all “members should and missed when you’re away; belong- visiting teacher; you don’t have to have the same care one for another.”9 ing is needing, loving, and missing be prayed for to pray. In spite of our “And whether one member suffer, all those who are away. That is the differ- differences, if we will share gener- the members suffer with it; or one ence between attending and belong- ously and honestly, our sisters member be honoured, all the mem- ing. Relief Society is not just a Sunday will also share; we will know one bers rejoice with it.”10 For “the body class: it is a divine gift to us as women. another’s hearts, and belonging will hath need of every member, that all Here are two reasons why I feel I flower like a garden. Sister Smith and may be edified together, that the sys- belong to Relief Society—and it’s not our Ethiopian sisters learned that dif- tem may be kept perfect.”11 just because of my current calling! I ferences don’t matter, for belonging is Yes, Relief Society can be more fun, was feeling down last month when my charity, the pure love of Christ, in more joyful, more unifying. Our bur- visiting teachers came. Sue is divorced, action. And charity never faileth. dens can be lightened, our loads less- and Cate is one of my former Laurels. Whether we serve in Primary or ened. Relief Society’s not perfect, They brought the message and a Young Women, whether we’re active because not one of us is. But we can prayer. But they also brought real or less so, whether we’re married or work on it; we can perfect it together concern. I felt lifted and loved. single, whether we’re spring chickens as we take our own steps forward. One of my sisters in Relief Society or fall hens, we all belong to Relief How? By just changing our attitudes: offered a prayer not long ago and Society. I’m a fall hen, but I feel like a How we talk about Relief Society asked Heavenly Father to bless me— spring chicken! We need your voices, affects how others feel about Relief by name—in my responsibilities. She your feelings, your hearts. Relief Society—especially young women. didn’t know my specific needs, but Society needs you. And you know Be supportive of our Relief Society she knew my heart. what? You need Relief Society. When presidencies and teachers—let them Now, maybe your visiting teachers you don’t participate, you’re depriv- learn on our time (just as we will haven’t come recently, or maybe you ing yourself and you’re depriving learn on theirs). Forgive more and haven’t been prayed for by name. I’m Relief Society. judge less. Be a caring, consistent

NOVEMBER 2004 107 visiting teacher. Attend home, family, Nearly a year ago, in Pasadena, did it day after day after day, without and personal enrichment meeting California, Sister Janice Burgoyne was complaint, with boundless charity. with enthusiasm. Look for what’s dying of cancer. She had shared gener- Such sharing forever changed those good about Relief Society and build ously of herself and was dearly loved. sisters. Before she died, Janice turned on it. Her Relief Society sisters were bring- to a Relief Society sister and asked President Joseph F. Smith issued a ing her meals, cleaning her house, car- with gratitude and awe, “How does charge that we “take hold of this work ing for her two young sons, helping anyone die without Relief Society?” [of Relief Society] with vigor, with her husband plan a funeral. It was To you, my dear sisters—and you intelligence and unitedly, for the build- hard for Janice to receive so much are my sisters—I ask, “How does any- ing up of Zion.”12 If we believe that the help, knowing that her sisters would one live without Relief Society?” Lord’s Church has been restored—and find that piece of old toast behind the Belonging is our sacred birthright. we do—then we must believe that couch. She worried her sisters would How I’d like to bundle you in my Relief Society is an essential part of His know more than her heart. But arms and go to Relief Society with organizational fold. We need to stop because her sisters knew her heart, it you. How I would like to know your asking whether we fit—because we do! didn’t matter. They provided car hearts and have you know mine. Our differences are not so great that pools, tutored homework, played her Bring your hearts, your charitable we cannot build Zion together. piano, changed bedding. And they hearts, to Relief Society. Bring your talents, your gifts, your individuality so that we can be one. I testify that “the good shepherd doth call after [us] . . . [to] bring [us] into his fold.”13 We may not have all the answers, but we must trust that Relief Society is an essential part of His work, for Though [our] path may wind across the mountains, He knows the meadows where [we] feed. . . . He clothes the lilies of the field, He feeds the lambs [of] His fold, And He will heal those who trust Him, And make [our] hearts as gold.14 In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■

NOTES 1. D&C 38:30. 2. In Conference Report, Apr. 1907, 6; emphasis added. 3. Personal correspondence. 4. Moses 7:18. 5. D&C 38:27. 6. “Standing Strong and Immovable,” Worldwide Leadership Training Meeting, 10 Jan. 2004, 20. 7. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young (1997), 354. 8. “The Relief Society,” Ensign, May 1998, 73. 9. 1 Corinthians 12:25. 10. 1 Corinthians 12:26. 11. D&C 84:110; emphasis added. 12. In Conference Report, Apr. 1907, 6. 13. Alma 5:60. 14. Roger Hoffman, “Consider the Lilies.”

108 of age or ill health—our own spiritual- ity often ends up at the bottom of our Out of Small Things long “to do” lists. Scripture study and prayer will KATHLEEN H. HUGHES bring change—but not automatically. First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency If we read with one eye and pray with half a heart, we are engaging in a rit- ual, and while that time is not worth- We must not become weary of doing good, less, it isn’t fully productive either. We and we must not become impatient; the changes need, with the support of family, to we seek will come about “in their time.” clear enough time to study—not just read—to contemplate, feel, and wait for answers. The Lord has promised that He will strengthen us, fortify and John Johnson home southeast of refresh us, if we will take time for Him Kirtland, Ohio; other brethren were each day (see D&C 88:63). preparing to leave for Missouri. In Sisters, we must prepare if we wish the midst of these preparations, to serve, and we must serve if we wish Joseph Smith received the revelation to prepare. When I was 16 I was called that we now know as section 64 to teach the three-year-olds in what of the Doctrine and Covenants. After was then called Junior Sunday School. instructing the men going to Missouri, (You know there was such a thing in the Lord reminded them: “But all the olden days.) I taught some busy things must come to pass in their children. They climbed on and under time. Wherefore, be not weary in well- the chairs and table and never seemed doing, for ye are laying the foundation to stop moving. I was dreadfully inex- of a great work. And out of small perienced, and during the first few things proceedeth that which is great” weeks I wondered if I had done the (D&C 64:32–33; emphasis added). right thing in accepting the call. These verses are a guide for us as But I persisted, and what I learned— we prepare ourselves and our fam- quickly—was that I couldn’t just pray he words of the grand anthem of ilies to live in “perilous times” (see for help. I had to be prepared. That the Restoration sung at the open- 2 Timothy 3:1). We must not become meant planning activities, stories, and Ting of our meeting have been in weary of doing good, and we must lessons, and it meant having plan B my mind and heart since we first chose not become impatient; the changes ready, along with C through Z. Many the theme. “Let Zion in her beauty rise; we seek will come about “in their years later, when I was called to lead Her light begins to shine. . . . A people time.” Most important, the great work a Junior Sunday School, I knew how to prepare to meet the Lord” (“Let Zion we wish to do will proceed from to assist new teachers. I knew how in Her Beauty Rise,” Hymns, no. 41). “small things.” to enjoy the children, and I knew It’s glorious to think of that promised One of those small things, I have the importance of being faithful in time when the Lord will return, but learned, is that I must find the time my calling. it’s also sobering to contemplate the to fill my own spiritual reservoir each I, like many of you, have had changes that may be necessary for us day. It’s tempting to make a massive numerous callings in the Church. each to be prepared. Still, dear sisters, list of my failings and then to work at Some have been easier for me than as I have met you and seen your com- them, as a friend of mine says, as others, but I have tried to magnify mitment, I believe we are not, as a though I am “killing snakes.” Self- each one. But does the phrase “mag- people, as wanting as we often feel. We improvement may seem a kind of nify your calling” ever make you nerv- have reason for confidence and hope work project, but it is—at heart—a ous? It has worried me! Recently I read as we prepare. change of heart. When we women a talk in which President Thomas S. September 1832 was a busy season struggle to keep up with life—raising Monson said on the subject: “And of preparation for the early Saints. The children, providing necessities, how does one magnify a calling? Prophet was preparing to move to the attending school, dealing with issues Simply by performing the service that

NOVEMBER 2004 109 pertains to it” (“Priesthood Power,” weary we come to resent the time we offerings—specifically, our tithes and Liahona, Jan. 2000, 60; Ensign, Nov. spend in fulfilling our callings. fast offerings. Throughout the 1999, 51). Sisters, we can do that! I When we are called to serve, we are Doctrine and Covenants the Lord hear women say that their callings are not offered a release date. Our lives admonishes us to care for each other wearing them out or that they don’t are our service. Lois Bonner, a woman and to give of our temporal resources have time to serve. But magnifying in my stake who is 92 years old, began to build the kingdom of God. In fact, our callings does not mean staying up serving as a visiting teacher when she our willingness to do this is one of the all night preparing handouts and elab- married over 65 years ago. She still prerequisites for the Lord’s returning orate table decorations. It does not faithfully serves. The Nelsons from to the earth (see Daniel H. Ludlow, mean that each time we do our visit- Canada and the Ellsworths from Utah, A Companion to Your Study of the ing teaching we have to take some- as missionaries, taught, mentored, and Doctrine and Covenants, 2 vols. thing to our sisters. Sometimes we loved those of us who were in a small, [1978], 2:46). Though each of our cir- are our own worst enemies. Let’s sim- growing ward in Missouri. We learned, cumstances may differ, it is important plify. The message of a good lesson through them, the joy of service and for us to give all that we can. The Lord comes through spiritual preparation. benefited from the wisdom of their has seldom required individuals to Let’s put our focus on the principles experiences. I can think of no better give all, but it is important for Him of the gospel and on the material in way to thank our Father for all He to know that we would and could do our study guides. Let’s prepare to cre- gives us than to serve His children in it, if asked (see Bruce R. McConkie, ate an interesting exchange of ideas every age of our lives. “Obedience, Consecration, and through discussion, not through Finally, I’m coming to understand Sacrifice,” Ensign, May 1975, 50). In extra, invented work that makes us so the meaning and importance of our one stake where my husband and I

110 lived, our stake president challenged members to double their fast offer- ings and prepare for the blessings that Walking would come. I can now bear personal testimony that the Lord will bless us in unfathomable ways if we are true and faithful in giving generously. towards the Light Spirituality through prayer and study. Service to others. Generous tithes and offerings. These are not of His Love new principles. These are some of the “small things” that are prerequisites to ANNE C. PINGREE that which is great. In the verse that Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency follows, we learn what the Lord requires of us. He requires “the heart and a willing mind” (D&C 64:34; Connections forged among covenant women emphasis added). It is our hearts and in Relief Society can . . . enlighten, enliven, our minds that must be made new. and enrich the journey of life. We each have our failings, our weak- nesses, our less-than-perfect attitudes. The Lord asks us to open ourselves to Him, holding nothing back. He says to us, seek not “thine own life”; seek In the beginning, our conversa- “my will, and to keep my command- tions were lighthearted chatter about ments” (Helaman 10:4). The newness our husbands and children, their of heart comes when we do and give interests, and the schools in the area. all we can, then offer our heart and Little by little we opened our hearts will to the Father. As we do this, our to one another, processing spiritual Father promises us that our lives now ideas and delving into our experi- and in eternity will be abundant. We ences to find the kernels of truth. need not fear. It seemed as we worked to get our Sisters, don’t become weary in bodies in shape, we began to get doing good. If we are patient, we can our souls in shape. I loved this won- experience the change of heart we derful exertion. seek. For most of us this will require I learned two unforgettable lessons only a slight change of course, send- from my journey with Jan that con- ing us toward true north. The adjust- tinue to enlighten my mind and fill ments we must make are in those my soul with joy. The first is that what- “small things,” but that does not ever the circumstances in your life, if mean they are easy. Too many forces n the early spring mornings as you are spiritually prepared, there is are confusing our compass. But the the sun took a first peek over the no need to fear (see D&C 38:30). pull to the polar star is one we recog- Imountains, Jan and I started walk- Long after we began our walks nize. It is the direction toward home. ing together. As newly assigned visit- together, I discovered that years ear- I bear witness to you of the reality ing teaching partners, we were both lier Jan had made choices which took of the promises of the Father to us, young mothers with growing families her step-by-step away from the His beloved daughters. I testify that as and busy, demanding schedules. Church and down a path she now we attune our lives to emulate the life Jan and her family were recent regretted. About the time our lives shown us by the Savior, we will know move-ins to our ward, and I wasn’t intersected, she had determined to that the light of Zion is arising, that sure what we would talk about. put her life in order. The longing in we are becoming a people prepared Struggling, out of breath, up and down her heart was to prepare herself so for His return. In the name of Jesus the inclines of a nearby mountain road, that she could be sealed to her hus- Christ, amen. ■ we walked and talked day after day. band and children in the temple. Hers

NOVEMBER 2004 111 was a single-minded yearning, as Although she was in the midst of (“The Lord Is My Light,” Hymns, Nephi phrased it, “[to] be reconciled terrible trials, it was obvious to me no. 89) unto Christ, and enter into the nar- that Jan knew our prophet’s words row gate, and walk in the strait path are true. She never stopped her per- Because of her abiding faith, the which leads to life, and continue in sonal spiritual preparation as she Lord’s Atonement brought daily the path until the end of the day of moved forward fearlessly a day at a renewal to Jan. She submitted her will probation” (2 Nephi 33:9). time with a radiant sense of calmness to the Lord one prayer, one scripture, You might expect that once Jan had in her life. Over the course of those and one act of service at a time. determined as earnestly as Lamoni’s early hours together, I literally Shortly before her death while she father in the Book of Mormon to “give watched “the morning [break], the was in her 30s, I was among those away all [her] sins to know [the Lord]” shadows flee . . . [and] the dawning of gathered in the temple quietly rejoic- (Alma 22:18), her journey would be a brighter day” (“The Morning ing as she, her husband, and their smoothed. Such was not the case. She Breaks,” Hymns, no. 1) as Jan’s repen- children knelt at the altar and were was faced with some of life’s most tance brought her a release from sins sealed together for eternity. soul-wrenching trials. Jan was diag- and then a deeply personal spiritual The second unforgettable lesson nosed with a brain tumor, her hus- enlightenment. that I learned from Jan is that when band lost his job, then the family lost I asked Jan how she had come to the sisters of Relief Society look “with their home and their car. feel peace when her life was in such an eye single to the glory of God” Yet Jan’s faith in Jesus Christ grew turmoil and things were collapsing all (D&C 4:5), they can experience rich steadier as her way grew harder. As around her. I believe the words of a spiritual insights and share deep spiri- we trudged along together on our hymn capture best what she felt and tual strength together. morning walks, I learned so much subsequently shared with me about At the beginning of our walks, Jan from Jan about how her faith in the the power of the Atonement in her life: and I weren’t walking at the same Lord and daily spiritual preparation pace. As our hearts became “knit helped her conquer fear. She seemed The Lord is my light; the Lord is my together in unity and in love” (Mosiah to understand perfectly what strength. 18:21), we walked increasingly in step President Gordon B. Hinckley has I know in his might I’ll conquer at with one another both physically and taught: “We would be wise to kneel length. spiritually. We buoyed each other up before our God in supplication. He My weakness in mercy he covers with our testimonies, bore one will help us. He will bless us. He will with pow’r, another’s burdens, strengthened and comfort and sustain us” (Standing for And, walking by faith, I am blest comforted one another as Relief Something [2000], 178). ev’ry hour. Society sisters have always done.

112 Through my friendship with Jan I learned what a sacred kinship con- nects us as Relief Society sisters. Jan If Ye Are Prepared and I, like so many of you, grew from our assignment as visiting teaching partners into sisters and cherished friends. I testify that connections Ye Shall Not Fear forged among covenant women in Relief Society can indeed enlighten, PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON enliven, and enrich the journey of life First Counselor in the First Presidency because we can help each other learn how to put the Lord first in our hearts We do live in turbulent times. Often the future is unknown; and in our lives. I know this because therefore, it behooves us to prepare for uncertainties. over 20 years ago, Jan helped me move closer to our Savior by the way she lived. She encouraged me to work beyond my own problems, to rejoice gratefully in the majesty of the they were comfortably seated, he Savior’s Atonement for my sins, to inquired, “Who are you, anyway?” look forward with faith to what each The visitor answered, “I’m a cousin new day brings, and to relish deep on your father’s side,” whereupon the spiritual relationships available only boy replied, “Mister, in this house, through Relief Society. that puts you on the wrong side!” I still walk in the mornings every I trust that tonight, in this house, I chance I get. I still pause to study the might be found on the right side, beauties of this earth and to thank even the Lord’s side. Heavenly Father for the mission of our Years ago I saw a photograph of a Savior Jesus Christ. I often recall with Sunday School class in the Sixth Ward deep gratitude the spirit Jan brought of the Pioneer Stake in Salt Lake City. to our walks because of her great The photograph was taken in 1905. desire to feel the Savior’s redeeming A sweet girl, her hair in pigtails, was love. Her love for the Lord flooded my shown on the front row. Her name heart then as fully as the rays of the was Belle Smith. Later, as Belle Smith rising sun continue to flood the land Spafford, general president of the with light every morning. t is a privilege to stand before Relief Society, she wrote: “Never have I bear testimony of our Savior, who you at this general Relief Society women had greater influence than in said of Himself: “Behold, I am Jesus I conference. I recognize that today’s world. Never have the doors Christ, the Son of God. I am the life beyond you who are gathered in this of opportunity opened wider for and the light of the world” (D&C Conference Center, there are many them. This is an inviting, exciting, 11:28). Sisters, I know that by daily thousands watching and listening to challenging, and demanding period of preparing ourselves a step at a time, the proceedings by way of satellite time for women. It is a time rich in each of us, like Jan, can move forward transmission. rewards if we keep our balance, learn without fear, finding our way to Him As I speak to you tonight, I realize the true values of life, and wisely as we personally feel the blessings of that as a man I am in the minority and determine priorities.”1 His infinite Atonement. I know that must be cautious in my comments. I The Relief Society organization has one of the supernal blessings of Relief feel much the same as the shy coun- had a goal to help eliminate illiteracy. Society is our connection to women try cousin who came to visit his rela- Those of us who can read and write who also bear testimony of our Lord. tive in a large cosmopolitan city. He do not appreciate the deprivation of My prayer is that we will ever walk had not sought his kinsman for some those who cannot read, who cannot side by side towards the light of His years and was startled when a young write. They are shrouded by a dark redeeming love. In the name of Jesus boy answered the ringing of the door- cloud which stifles their progress, Christ, amen. ■ bell. The lad asked him in; and after dulls their intellect, and dims their

NOVEMBER 2004 113 hopes. Sisters of the Relief Society, Church—who said, smiling broadly, read and how to write.” I reflected you can lift this cloud of despair and “President Monson, before I joined on the supreme joy she must have welcome heaven’s divine light as it the Church and became a member felt when she opened her Bible and shines upon your sisters. of Relief Society, I could not read read for the first time the words of Some years ago I was in Monroe, nor write. None of my family could. the Lord: Louisiana, attending a regional con- You see, we were all poor sharecrop- “Come unto me, all ye that labour ference. It was a beautiful occasion. pers. President, my white Relief and are heavy laden, and I will give At the airport on my way home, I Society sisters—they taught me to you rest. was approached by a lovely African- read. They taught me to write. Now I “Take my yoke upon you, and learn American woman—a member of the help teach my white sisters how to of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. “For my yoke is easy, and my bur- den is light.”2 That day in Monroe, Louisiana, I received a confirmation by the Spirit of the exalted objective of the Relief Society to help eliminate illiteracy. The poet wrote:

You may have tangible wealth untold; Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be— I had a Mother who read to me.3

Another added this poignant verse:

But think of the fate of a different child, Whose manner is meek, whose temper is mild, While yet instilled with that same special need, Was born to a mother who could not read.4

Parents everywhere have a concern for their children and for their eternal happiness. This is depicted in the musical Fiddler on the Roof, one of the longest running musicals in the history of the stage. One laughs as he observes the old- fashioned father of a Jewish family in Russia as he attempts to cope with the changing times brought forcibly home to him by his beautiful teenage daughters. The gaiety of the dance, the rhythm of the music, the excellence of the acting all fade in their significance

114 when old Tevye speaks what to me becomes the message of the musical. He gathers his lovely daughters to his side and, in the simplicity of his peas- ant surroundings, counsels them as they ponder their future. Remember, cautions Tevye, “in Anatevka . . . everyone knows who he is and what God expects him to do.”5 You, my beloved sisters, know who you are and what God expects you to become. Your challenge is to bring all for whom you are responsible to a knowledge of this truth. The Relief Society of this, the Lord’s Church, can be the means to achieve such a goal. “The first and foremost opportu- nity for teaching in the Church lies in the home,” observed President David O. McKay.6 “A true Mormon home is one in which if Christ should chance to enter, he would be pleased The mission president, Horace D. counseled her to include him in their to linger and to rest.”7 Ensign, and I were traveling by plane home Primary lesson each week and What are we doing to ensure that the long distance from Sydney to be to him a living testimony of the our homes meet this description? It Darwin, where I was to break ground gospel. I mentioned we would send isn’t enough for parents alone to have for our first chapel in that city. En to her a subscription to the Children’s strong testimonies. Children can ride route we had a scheduled fueling stop Friend and additional helps for her only so long on the coattails of a par- at a remote mining community named family teaching. We urged that she ent’s conviction. Mt. Isa. As we entered the small air- never give up on her husband. President Heber J. Grant declared: port, a woman and her two young We departed Mt. Isa, a city to “It is our duty to teach our children in children approached. She said, “I am which I have never returned. I shall, their youth. . . . I may know that the Judith Louden, a member of the however, always hold dear in memory gospel is true, and so may my wife; Church, and these are my children. that sweet mother and those precious but I want to tell you that our chil- We thought you might be on this children extending a tear-filled dren will not know that the gospel is flight, so we have come to visit with expression and a fond wave of grati- true, unless they study it and gain a you during your brief stopover.” She tude and good-bye. testimony for themselves.”8 explained that her husband was not a Several years later, while speaking A love for the Savior, a reverence member of the Church and that she at a priesthood leadership meeting in for His name, and genuine respect and the children were indeed the only Brisbane, Australia, I emphasized the one for another will provide a fertile members in the entire area. We shared significance of gospel scholarship in seedbed for a testimony to grow. experiences and bore testimony. the home and the importance of liv- Learning the gospel, bearing a tes- Time passed. As we prepared to ing the gospel and being examples of timony, leading a family are rarely if reboard, Sister Louden looked so the truth. I shared with the men ever simple processes. Life’s journey forlorn, so alone. She pleaded, “You assembled the account of Sister is characterized by bumps in the road, can’t go yet; I have so missed the Louden and the impact her faith and swells in the sea—even the turbu- Church.” Suddenly, over the loud- determination had had on me. As I lence of our times. speaker there was announced a 30- concluded, I said, “I suppose I’ll never Some years ago, while visiting minute mechanical delay of our flight. know if Sister Louden’s husband ever the members and missionaries in Sister Louden whispered, “My prayer joined the Church, but he couldn’t Australia, I witnessed a sublime exam- has been answered.” She then asked have found a better model to follow ple depicting how a treasury of testi- how she might influence her husband than his wife.” mony can bless and sanctify a home. to show an interest in the gospel. We One of the leaders raised his hand,

NOVEMBER 2004 115 then stood and declared, “Brother of his mother, and warn us not to that God lives, and I love Him with all Monson, I am Richard Louden. The ignore our mother when she is old.10 my soul. I am so grateful that the woman of whom you speak is my The scriptures also remind us that gospel was restored to the earth 150 wife. The children [his voice qua- what we learn from our mothers com- years ago and that I can enjoy the vered] are our children. We are a for- prises our very core values, as with blessings of membership in this great ever family now, thanks in part to the the 2,000 stripling sons and warriors Church. I am grateful for the priest- persistence and the patience of my of Helaman, who “had been taught by hood of God, having felt its power dear wife. She did it all.” Not a word their mothers, that if they did not throughout my life. was spoken. The silence was broken doubt, God would deliver them.”11 “I am at peace in my world and only by sniffles and marked by the And He did! pray that you may be sustained in sight of tears. Many members of Relief Society do yours by firm testimonies and unwa- We do live in turbulent times. Often not have husbands. Death, divorce, or vering convictions of the gospel of the future is unknown; therefore, it lack of opportunity to marry have, in Jesus Christ.”12 behooves us to prepare for uncertain- many instances, made it necessary for Helen Lee Goates passed away in ties. Statistics reveal that at some time, a woman to stand alone. Additionally, April of the year 2000. Shortly before for a variety of reasons, you may find there are those who have just come her impending death from cancer, yourself in the role of financial from the Young Women program. In Sister Monson and I visited with her provider. I urge you to pursue your reality, no one need stand alone, for a and her husband and family. She education and learn marketable skills loving Heavenly Father will be by her appeared calm and at peace. She told so that, should such a situation arise, side to give direction to her life and us she was prepared to go and looked you are prepared to provide. provide peace and assurance in those forward to seeing once again her par- The role of women is unique. The quiet moments where loneliness is ents and other loved ones who had renowned American essayist, novelist, found and where compassion is preceded her. In her life Sister Goates and historian, Washington Irving, needed. Also significant is the fact exemplified the nobility of Latter-day stated: “There is one in the world that the women of Relief Society Saint women. In her passing she per- who feels for him who is sad a keener stand side by side as sisters. May you sonified your theme: “If ye are pre- pang than he feels for himself; there ever be there to care for each other, pared ye shall not fear.”13 is one to whom reflected joy is better to recognize one another’s needs. I bear to you, my beloved sisters, than that which comes direct; there is May you be sensitive to the circum- my witness that Heavenly Father lives, one who rejoices in another’s honor stances of each, realizing that some that Jesus is the Christ, and that we more than in any which is one’s own; women are facing particular chal- are led today by a prophet for our there is one on whom transcendent lenges, but that every woman is a val- time—even President Gordon B. excellence sheds no beam but that of ued daughter of our Heavenly Father. Hinckley. Safe journey to you as you delight; there is one who hides As I conclude my remarks, may I travel along life’s pathway, I pray, in another’s infirmities more faithfully share with you an experience of sev- the name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ than one’s own; there is one who eral years ago which depicted the NOTES loses all sense of self in the sentiment strength of you dear sisters in Relief 1. A Woman’s Reach (1974), 21. of kindness, tenderness, and devotion Society. 2. Matthew 11:28–30. to another. That one is woman.” During 1980, the sesquicentennial 3. Strickland Gillilan, “The Reading Mother,” in The Best Loved Poems of the American Said President Gordon B. Hinckley: year of the organization of the People, sel. Hazel Felleman (1936), 376. “God planted within women some- Church, each member of the Relief 4. Added in April 1992 by Elizabeth Ware thing divine that expresses itself in Society general board was asked to Pierce. 5. In Great Musicals of the American Theatre, quiet strength, in refinement, in write a personal letter to the sisters of 2 vols., ed. Stanley Richards (1973–76), peace, in goodness, in virtue, in truth, the Church in the year 2030—50 1:393. 6. Priesthood Home Teaching Handbook, rev. in love. And all of these remarkable years hence. The following is an ed. (1967), ii. qualities find their truest and most sat- excerpt from the letter written by 7. Gospel Ideals (1953), 169. isfying expression in motherhood.”9 Sister Helen Lee Goates: 8. Gospel Standards, comp. G. Homer Durham (1941), 155. Being a mother has never been an “Our world of 1980 is filled with 9. Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley (1997), easy role. Some of the oldest writings uncertainty, but I am determined to 387. in the world admonish us not to for- live each day with faith and not fear, 10. See Proverbs 1:8; 10:1; 23:22. 11. Alma 56:47. sake the law of our mother, instruct to trust the Lord and to follow the 12. Letter in possession of Relief Society office. us that a foolish son is the heaviness counsel of our prophet today. I know 13. D&C 38:30.

116 Home, Family, and Personal General Auxiliary Presidencies Enrichment Meetings* SUNDAY SCHOOL hen planning home, family, and personal enrichment meet- Wings, leaders should carefully assess the needs of the sisters and counsel with priesthood leaders. When applicable, make cer- tain these meetings include classes that help develop skills in par- enting and family relations. The Family Guidebook (item no. 31180) and Marriage and Family Relations Instructor’s Manual (item no. 35865) may be used as resources. These are available through Church distribution centers. Daniel K Judd A. Roger Merrill William D. Oswald First Counselor President Second Counselor TOPIC PRESENTATIONS** IDEAS FOR MINICLASS SUBJECTS** YOUNG MEN Spiritual Development • Temple worship (D&C 88:63) • Personal prayer and scripture study • Sabbath-day observance (see D&C 59) Homemaking Skills • Growing, cooking, and preserving (Proverbs 31:27) food • Home organization and cleaning • The value of work Marriage and Family • “The Family: A Proclamation to the Relations World” (Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; Dean R. Burgess Charles W. Dahlquist II Michael A. Neider (Malachi 4:6; Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102) First Counselor President Second Counselor Mosiah 4:15) • Family home evening, family prayer, and scripture study RELIEF SOCIETY • Parenting skills Strengthening • Communication and resolving Relationships conflicts (Matthew 5:38–44; 25:40) • Repentance and forgiveness • Effective leadership Self-Reliance • Home storage and emergency (D&C 88:119) preparedness • Education and resource management • Health and hygiene Kathleen H. Hughes Bonnie D. Parkin Anne C. Pingree Service • Service to family and neighbors First Counselor President Second Counselor (Proverbs 31:20; • Serving in the Church Mosiah 4:26) • Community service project YOUNG WOMEN Physical and • Exercise and nutrition Emotional Health • Stress management and recreation (Mosiah 4:27; D&C 10:4) • Feeling gratitude and recognizing the Lord’s blessings Personal Development • Patriarchal blessings and Education • Developing talents and creativity (D&C 88:118; 130:18–19) • Lifelong learning Literacy • Gospel literacy Julie B. Beck Susan W. Tanner Elaine S. Dalton (Daniel 1:17; • Written histories and testimonies First Counselor President Second Counselor Moses 6:5–6) • Early childhood education and children’s literature PRIMARY Cultural Arts • Importance of music in the home (D&C 25:12) • Literature and fine arts • Understanding other cultures

*Guidelines for home, family, and personal enrichment meetings were distributed with a letter from the First Presidency dated 20 September 1999. These guidelines are available online in English at www.lds.org. Click on “Serving in the Church,” “Relief Society,” “Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment,” and “Guidelines for Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment Meeting.” **Resources for topic presentations and miniclass subjects include the Gospel Principles manual (item no. 31110) and Part A and Part B of The Latter-day Saint Woman (item nos. 31113, 31114). Sydney S. Reynolds Coleen K. Menlove Gayle M. Clegg First Counselor President Second Counselor

NOVEMBER 2004 117 from? Are you placing yourself unnec- essarily in the path of temptation and They Spoke to Us deception? Elder Dallin H. Oaks talks about how we can avoid Satan’s lies. (See p. 43.) Making Conference Part of Our Lives 8. Are you struggling with adver- sity? Have you ever asked yourself, s you make the October 2004 must reach out to those that for some “Why me?” Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin general conference a part of reason have forgotten the path,” said talks about a better question to ask. A your own and your family’s Elder Ned B. Roueché. (See p. 30.) (See p. 101.) life, you might consider using the Do you have a friend who has not 9. “I’ve repented, but how can I following ideas for personal study attended church lately? Think of ways know if I’ve been forgiven?” If you’ve and family home evening. Or you you could encourage him or her to ever wondered about this question, may wish to create your own ques- come with you. you’ll want to read Elder Richard G. tions, activities, and discussion ideas. Scott’s talk on finding peace of con- (Page numbers refer to the beginning FOR YOUTH science. (See p. 15.) of the talks.) 6. What’s so bad about looking at 10. Have you ever questioned pornography? Read what President the strength of your own testimony? FOR CHILDREN Hinckley says about this dangerous Elder Donald L. Staheli gives sugges- 1. Did children take part in confer- addiction and find out how you can tions for those who are “looking ence in the Conference Center? If so, break free from this “evil for further confirmation of [their] what did a group of them do? (Clue: monster.” (See p. 59.) testimony.” (See p. 37.) See the photograph on p. 29.) 7. Where do your 2. Where will two new temples temptations come EON BY TAMRA H. RATIETA H. TAMRA EON BY be built? How many temples will there SEE NO. 11 be when all those announced so far are OF PIG TOGRAPH built? (Clue: Search President Gordon B. Hinckley’s talk, p. 4.) 3. Name the two new members of the Quorum of the Twelve

Apostles. Find one PHO OF CARS © PHOTODISC; TOGRAPH interesting fact about each of them. (Clue: SEE NO. 13 Look at the General Authority chart in the center of the magazine. See stories about them

on pp. 125 and 126.) PHO MODELS; RIGHT: , POSED BY 4. When Elder John H. Groberg was a young missionary, for weeks he and many others suffered great hunger because of a hurricane. What are some of the things he found as evidence that Heavenly Father loves him? (Clue: See p. 9.) List some of your blessings that show God’s love for you. 5. “We are all brothers and sisters,

children of our Heavenly Father. We REIER AND CRAIG DIMOND MATTHEW BY PHOTOGRAPHY LEFT:

118 STORIES TO READ AND SHARE Are you preparing a talk or lesson? In the conference talks Young man cares for grandmother, 67 beginning on the pages listed below, you’ll find stories you Elderly sister invites young Elder Uchtdorf’s family can tell and insights you can share. to church, 74 Missionary couples serve throughout the world, 79 Woman expresses gratitude for latter-day Apostles, 6 Large Filipino family is reverent, pays tithing, shares Elder Groberg nearly starves in South Pacific, 9 the gospel, 92 Elder Groberg is thrown into sea when boat overturns, 9 Elder Richards and son read Book of Mormon, 95 Blind Welsh convert crosses plains, 18 Missionary has difficulty memorizing, 98 Young Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball leave for mission Church helps hurricane victims, 98 President to England, 23 Father endures deaths of four children, 101 Monson raises Priesthood leaders take action after Idaho dam breaks, 26 Women walk, talk, and build friendship, 111 pigeons, 56 Activated member thanks missionary, 30 Australian sister helps husband join Relief Society sisters support woman with less-active Church, 113 husband, 34 Relief Society sister learns to read and Peruvian sister learns much in Relief Society, 34 write, 113 Man bears testimony on Brazilian bus, 40 Woman writes letter to sisters Young Elder Dickson deals with arm amputation, 52 of 2030, 113 School crossing guard teaches man the gospel, 56

Boy has too many toy cars, 98

FOR FAMILY HOME EVENING you make to help you progress habits can you give up? What service OR PERSONAL STUDY spiritually? can you give? What items can you 11. President Hinckley spoke 13. “Joy can be ours if we are donate to those in need? How can of the attitude we should have willing to sacrifice all for the Lord,” you give time and talents to strengthen toward women. (See p. 82.) Invite said President James E. Faust. (See your family, your ward or branch, family members to list things they p. 18.) What are some sacrifices you or your neighborhood? appreciate about their mother, wife, can make for the Lord? What bad 14. Who is Oliver Granger? How sister, aunt, or grand- does the Lord’s promise that “his mother and ways they SEE NO. 2 name shall be had in sacred remem- can better show her brance . . . forever and ever” apply to their love. you and your family? (See President 12. “The choices Boyd K. Packer’s talk, p. 86.) we make determine 15. Elder Dallin H. Oaks said: “It our destiny,” said is not enough to know that President President Thomas S. Gordon B. Hinckley is God’s prophet. Monson. (See p. 67.) We must put his teachings to work in How have some of our lives.” (See p. 43.) Study President your seemingly small Hinckley’s talks in this issue. (See pp. 4, everyday choices 59, 82, and 104.) What counsel did he affected your life? The Aba Nigeria Temple is one of five new temples under give that you can put to work in your What decisions could construction. own life? Make a list. Begin today. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 119 Teachings for Our Time

he following instruc- the Melchizedek Priesthood tions for fourth-Sunday brethren and the Relief TMelchizedek Priest- Society sisters study the hood and Relief Society same talks on the same lessons replace those in Sundays. Teachers should Information for Priesthood seek counsel from their and Auxiliary Leaders on leaders regarding any Curriculum, 2005 through special emphasis. 2008 and in the May 2004 Those attending fourth- Liahona and Ensign. Sunday lessons are encour- Melchizedek Priesthood aged to study and bring and Relief Society meetings to class the latest general on the fourth Sunday of conference issue of the each month will continue magazine. Ward and branch to be devoted to leaders should ensure that “Teachings for Our Time.” all members have access to Effective November the Church magazines. 2004, all “Teachings for Our Time” lessons will be Suggestions for Preparing taught from talks in the a Lesson from Talks Members of the Helsinki Finland Stake watch a conference most recent general confer- • Pray that the Holy Spirit broadcast in the Helsinki Second Ward meetinghouse. ence issue of the Liahona will be with you as you or Ensign. These issues are study and teach the and doctrines that meet and doctrines in their published each May and talk(s). You may at times the needs of class mem- lives. November. The talks are be tempted to set aside bers. Also look for sto- • Review chapters 31–32 also available online (in the conference talks and ries, scripture references, of Teaching, No Greater many languages) at prepare the lesson using and statements from the Call. www.lds.org. other materials. But the talk(s) that will help you Each lesson can be pre- conference talks are the teach the principles and “What matters most pared from one or more approved curriculum. doctrines. is that members feel the talks. Stake and district Your assignment is to • Make an outline of how influence of the Spirit, presidents may choose help others learn and you want to teach the increase their understand- which talks should be used, live the gospel as taught principles and doctrines. ing of the gospel, learn to or they may assign this re- in the most recent gen- Your outline should apply gospel principles in sponsibility to bishops and eral conference of the include questions that their lives, and strengthen branch presidents. These Church. help class members: their commitment to live priesthood leaders should • Review the talk(s), –Look for principles and the gospel” (Teaching stress the value of having looking for principles doctrines in the talk(s) Guidebook [2001], 12). you are teaching. Please send comments Months Fourth-Sunday Lesson Materials –Think about the mean- about “Teachings for Our ing of the principles and Time” to Curriculum November 2004– Talks published in the November 2004 doctrines. Development, 50 East April 2005 Liahona or Ensign* –Share their understand- North Temple Street, Room May–October 2005 Talks published in the May 2005 Liahona ing, ideas, experiences, 2420, Salt Lake City, UT or Ensign* and testimonies of the 84150-3220, USA; e-mail: principles and doctrines. cur-development@ * These talks are available online (in many languages) at www.lds.org. –Apply these principles ldschurch.org. ■

120 Lesson 7: The Atonement Brings to review the repentance process. Aaronic Priesthood Victory over Death and Hell “Clean Up Your Act,” Liahona, James E. Faust, “The Atonement: Aug. 2004, 37; New Era, Aug. 2003, Our Greatest Hope,” Liahona, Jan. 19. Display and discuss this poster at and Young Women 2002, 19; Ensign, Nov. 2001, 18. the beginning of the lesson. Relate the story in the article with Lesson 13: Receiving Forgiveness Resource Guides “Christ Suffered for Us.” As We Forgive M. Russell Ballard, “The James E. Faust, “To Receive a he following resources may be Dallin H. Oaks, “Apostasy and Atonement and the Value of One Crown of Glory,” Liahona and Ensign, Tused to supplement, but not Restoration,” Ensign, May 1995, 84. Soul,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, Apr. 2004, 2. Share the examples of replace, lessons in Aaronic Use the ideas about the current mis- 84. Introduce the lesson with the thorns and briars and the story about Priesthood Manual 3 and Young understanding of the Godhead to grandson story. Ben to supplement the discussion on Women Manual 3. In the references, supplement the lesson introduction. “I Stand All Amazed,” Hymns, forgiveness and repentance. Duty to God stands for the Aaronic “Joseph Smith’s First Prayer,” no. 193. Cecil O. Samuelson Jr., Priesthood: Fulfilling Our Duty to Hymns, no. 26. Lesson 8: The Resurrection and “Forgiveness,” Liahona, Feb. 2003, God guidebooks. Personal Progress Duty to God (Deacon), “Spiritual Judgment 26; Ensign, Feb. 2003, 48. Share the stands for the Young Women Development,” no. 1. “The Living Christ: The Testimony parables as part of the “Hallmark of Personal Progress booklet. Some Lesson 2: The Plan of Salvation of the Apostles,” Liahona and Ensign, Discipleship” section. Duty to God and Personal Progress Duane B. Gerrard, “The Plan of Apr. 2000, 2. Use at the end of the Lesson 14: The Sacrament references may be used during lesson Salvation: A Flight Plan for Life,” lesson. Russell M. Nelson, “Worshiping at time, or you may encourage quorum Ensign, Nov. 1997, 77. Consider Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Sacrament Meeting,” Liahona, Aug. or class members to complete them replacing the blueprint analogy with Become,” Liahona, Jan. 2001, 40; 2004, 10; Ensign, Aug. 2004, 24. at home. Additional teaching sugges- the flight plan analogy. New Era, Aug. 2002, 12. Consider Consider using the section on per- tions are found on the “Using the Lesson 3: Sons of the Living God concluding the section on judgment sonal participation. Liahona” page and on the “What’s in Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Grandeur with the two ways to measure our Dallin H. Oaks, “The Aaronic It for You” page of the New Era and of God,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. progress. Priesthood and the Sacrament,” in Teaching, No Greater Call. 2003, 70. Share the first two para- “He Is Risen!” Hymns, no. 199. Liahona, Jan. 1999, 43; Ensign, Nov. Please teach the lessons in the graphs to introduce the lesson. Lesson 9: Justice and Mercy 1998, 37. Discuss how an Aaronic order they are printed. The manual S. Michael Wilcox, “No Other Russell M. Nelson, “Jesus the Priesthood holder should dress as he does not include a specific Easter les- Gods before Me,” Liahona, Feb. Christ: Our Master and More,” officiates in the ordinance of the son. If you want to teach a special 1998, 26; Ensign, Jan. 1994, 22. Tell Liahona and Ensign, Apr. 2000, 4. sacrament. Easter lesson, consider using scrip- the story of the author’s mother to Use the “Advocate with the Father” Duty to God (Priest), “Quorum tures, conference addresses, Church introduce “Our Relationship to section to supplement the discussion Activities,” no. 1. magazine articles, pictures, and Heavenly Father.” on Christ as mediator. Lesson 15: Enduring to the End hymns that focus on the life and mis- Lesson 4: I Have the Ability and Lesson 10: A Mighty Change Neal A. Maxwell, “Enduring Well,” sion of the Savior. Freedom to Choose Ezra Taft Benson, “A Mighty Liahona, Apr. 1999, 10; Ensign, Apr. To find non-English versions of Richard G. Scott, “Do What Is Change of Heart,” Tambuli, Mar. 1997, 6. Use this article to supple- the guides in some languages, go to Right,” Liahona, Mar. 2001, 10; 1990, 2; Ensign, Oct. 1989, 2. When ment the “The Savior Shows How to www.lds.org, click on the world Ensign, June 1997, 51. Consider shar- discussing godly sorrow, include Endure to the End” section. map, and select a language. Click on ing the suggestions for using agency these explanations and examples Henry B. Eyring, “In the Strength “Liahona,” then the November 2004 and honoring the priesthood. from the scriptures. of the Lord,” Liahona and Ensign, issue. The guides can be found under “Questions and Answers,” James E. Faust, “Born Again,” May 2004, 16. Consider adding Elder “Instructional Resources.” Liahona, Aug. 2003, 22; New Era, Liahona, July 2001, 68; Ensign, May Eyring’s four things necessary to do The English version of the Aug. 2003, 16. Use the question to 2001, 54. Consider using the story of to endure at the end of President resource guides can be found at start the discussion. Atiati instead of the story about Jane. Benson’s list. www.lds.org by clicking on “Gospel Lesson 5: “How Art Thou Fallen Lesson 11: Faith Sufficient to Lesson 16: Jesus Christ, the Life Library.” from Heaven, O Lucifer!” Obtain Eternal Life and Light of the World Future resource guides will be James E. Faust, “The Devil’s Thomas S. Monson, “The Robert D. Hales, “Out of Darkness printed in the May and November Throat,” Liahona and Ensign, May Lighthouse of the Lord: A Message to into His Marvelous Light,” Liahona, issues of the Liahona and Ensign. 2003, 51. Consider using the Devil’s the Youth of the Church,” Liahona, July 2002, 77; Ensign, May 2002, 69. The Church magazines (in some lan- Throat analogy. Ask the young men to May 2001, 2; Ensign, Feb. 2001, 2. Invite a young man to apply the story guages) can be found online at give examples of Satan’s “most Supplement the Matthew Cowley story of the bicycle as you end the lesson. www.lds.org. appealing messages.” with “Frame Your Life with Faith.” Duty to God (Deacon), “Spiritual Duty to God (Teacher), “Spiritual Dennis E. Simmons, “But If Not Development,” no. 1. Development,” no. 5. . . . ,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, Lesson 17: The Holy Ghost Aaronic Priesthood Lesson 6: The Fall of Adam 73. After the chalkboard discussion, “Questions and Answers,” Manual 3 “The Family: A Proclamation to use the basketball story and the defi- Liahona, Apr. 2003, 44; New Era, Apr. The following resources may be the World,” Liahona, Oct. 2004, 49; nition of faith. 2003, 16. Include the first five points used to supplement, but not replace, Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102. Use the first Lesson 12: Repentance as you teach about the influence of lessons 1–25. portions of the proclamation with James E. Faust, “To Receive a the Holy Ghost. Lesson 1: The Godhead “Power of Procreation.” Crown of Glory,” Liahona and Ensign, “Following the Promptings of the Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Father, Jess L. Christensen, “The Choice Apr. 2004, 2. Use the analogy to illus- Holy Ghost,” Liahona, Apr. 2002, 25; Son, and Holy Ghost,” Liahona and That Began Mortality,” Liahona, Aug. trate how repentance leads to healing. Ensign, Apr. 2002, 74. Consider using Ensign, Mar. 1998, 2. Use President 2002, 38; Ensign, Jan. 2002, 36. Jay E. Jensen, “Do You Know How the questions and answers from the Hinckley’s testimony of the Godhead Consider using the three-act play anal- to Repent?” Liahona, Apr. 2002, 14; article instead of the true or false to conclude the lesson. ogy to introduce the Fall of Adam. New Era, Nov. 1999, 4. Use the article questions in the lesson.

NOVEMBER 2004 121 Duty to God (Teacher), “Family in the article as class members share Lesson 2: Coming to Know the Lesson 8: Eternal Families Activities,” no. 5. their priesthood experiences. Savior N. Eldon Tanner, “Today I Will . . . ,” Lesson 18: Prayer Duty to God (Priest), “Quorum James E. Faust, “That We Might Liahona, Mar. 2003, 26; New Era, Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Improving Activities,” no. 1. Know Thee, the Only True God, and Mar. 2003, 12. Enhance the lesson with Our Prayers,” Liahona, Aug. 2004, 16; Lesson 23: Preparing for the Jesus Christ,” Liahona, Feb. 1999, 2; statements from the end of the article. Ensign, Mar. 2004, 24. Include the Melchizedek Priesthood “That We Might Know Thee,” Ensign, Russell M. Nelson, “Personal pattern for prayer in your discussion. David B. Haight, “Growing into Jan. 1999, 2. Consider adding the Preparation for Temple Blessings,” Marged A. Kirkpatrick, “I Didn’t the Priesthood,” Liahona and Ensign, ways to come unto Christ to those Liahona, July 2001, 37; Ensign, May Want to Die,” Liahona, Aug. 2004, 24; May 2003, 43. Add this experience to listed in the lesson summary. 2001, 32. Consider discussing the sec- New Era, Jan. 2004, 15. Use the story your discussion of the oath and Lesson 3: Living the Gospel Daily tion on the temple and temple rec- as you talk about recognizing answers covenant of the priesthood. Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Prophet’s ommends with “The Blessings of to prayers. Russell M. Nelson, “Personal Counsel and Prayer for Youth,” Eternal Family Life Can Be Obtained Duty to God (Deacon, Teacher, Priesthood Responsibility,” Liahona Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30; Ensign, Jan. Only in Temples.” Priest), “Priesthood Duties and and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 44. Use the 2001, 2. Use the six B’s with the sec- Lesson 9: Encouraging Family Standards,” no. 3. method taught by Elder Nelson to tion on feeling close to the Lord. Unity Lesson 19: Fasting help the young men remember his Personal Progress, “Faith Value Thomas S. Monson, “Hallmarks of Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Law of five personal objectives for magnify- Experiences,” no. 3. a Happy Home,” Liahona and the Fast,” Liahona, July 2001, 88; ing priesthood callings. Lesson 4: Preparing to Become Ensign, Oct. 2001, 2. Consider dis- Ensign, May 2001, 73. Consider Duty to God (Priest), “Quorum an Eternal Companion cussing how the four “hallmarks” can including ideas from this article in the Activities,” no. 4. David E. Sorensen, “The Doctrine help families be united. last section of the lesson. Lesson 24: Follow the Prophet of Temple Work,” Liahona, Aug. 2002, D. Ray Thomas, “Eight Tips for Danel W. Bachman, “Sermon of M. Russell Ballard, “His Word Ye 30; Ensign, Oct. 2003, 56. Add the Building Stronger Families,” Liahona, Sermons,” Tambuli, Feb. 1995, 26; Shall Receive,” Liahona, July 2001, article to the material in the “Spiritual Dec. 1999, 30; “Tips for Raising Ensign, Mar. 1991, 39. Consider using 79; Ensign, May 2001, 65. Make a list Preparation” section. Stronger Families,” Ensign, June the fasting story after the Matthew from the article of blessings that “Making the Most of Mutual,” 2000, 8. Consider applying the eight Cowley story. come as we listen to the prophet. Liahona, Sept. 2003, 24; New Era, tips to life in the home. Duty to God (Deacon), “Quorum M. Russell Ballard, “Beware of Sept. 2003, 28. Use one of the ideas in Personal Progress, “Divine Nature Activities,” no. 2. False Prophets and False Teachers,” class or in your next Mutual activity. Value Experiences,” no. 3. Lesson 20: Tithing—A Spiritual Liahona, Jan. 2000, 73; Ensign, Nov. Personal Progress, “Individual Lesson 10: Encouraging Test 1999, 62. Share Elder Ballard’s warn- Worth Value Experiences,” no. 2. Enjoyable Family Activities Robert D. Hales, “Tithing: A Test ings about false prophets. Lessons 5: Creating a Spiritual James E. Faust, “Enriching Our of Faith with Eternal Blessings,” Lesson 25: Every Young Man Environment in the Home Lives through Family Home Evening,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2002, 26. Should Serve a Mission James E. Faust, “The Virtues of Liahona and Ensign, June 2003, 2. Invite the students to find answers in M. Russell Ballard, “The Greatest Righteous Daughters of God,” Discuss some of President Faust’s the article to the quiz in the lesson. Generation of Missionaries,” Liahona Liahona and Ensign, May 2003, 108. suggestions as part of the lesson’s Jeffrey R. Holland, “Like a and Ensign, Nov. 2002, 46. Relate Discuss how living these 10 virtues conclusion. Watered Garden,” Liahona, Jan. 2002, Elder Ballard’s comments on raising could help create a spiritual environ- Lesson 11: Extended Family 37; Ensign, Nov. 2001, 33. Use the five the bar. ment in homes. Relationships reasons for paying tithing with the “Teaching from the Heart,” M. Russell Ballard, “Like a Flame James E. Faust, “The chalkboard discussion. Liahona, June 2004, 8; Ensign, June Unquenchable,” Liahona, July 1999, Phenomenon That Is You,” Liahona Duty to God, “Priesthood Duties 2004, 6. Make a list of what we can do 101; Ensign, May 1999, 85. Discuss and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 53. and Standards,” (Deacon), no. 7; to teach by the Spirit. the four ways to build a fortress of Supplement the lesson with (Teacher, Priest), no. 8. Duty to God, “Quorum Activities,” faith at the end of the lesson. the stories. Lesson 21: The Role of the (Teacher), no. 4; (Priest), no. 3. Lesson 6: A Woman’s Bruce C. Hafen, “Planting Quorum Duty to God, “Spiritual Responsibility to Teach Promises in the Hearts of the Gordon B. Hinckley, “Every Development,” (Deacon), nos. 9, 10; Dallin H. Oaks, “Gospel Teaching,” Children,” Liahona, June 1998, 16; Convert Is Precious,” Liahona, Feb. (Priest), no. 11. Liahona, Jan. 2000, 94; Ensign, Nov. Ensign, June 1994, 46. Ask a young 1999, 8; “Reach Out,” New Era, Feb. 1999, 78. Include the six fundamentals woman to tell the story of the son in 2003, 4. Add the story to your discus- Young Women of teaching in your discussion. the article. sion on “The Importance of the Lesson 7: Our Purpose in Life Personal Progress, “Individual Quorum.” Manual 3 Gordon B. Hinckley, “How Can I Worth Value Experiences,” no. 5. Mervyn B. Arnold, “Strengthen The following resources may be Become the Woman of Whom I Lesson 12: The Blessings of the Thy Brethren,” Liahona and Ensign, used to supplement, but not replace, Dream?” Liahona, July 2001, 112; Priesthood May 2004, 46. Consider sharing the lessons 1–25. Ensign, May 2001, 93. Supplement “It “Priesthood Restored,” Liahona, story of Fernando Araujo. Lesson 1: God the Father Is Our Responsibility to Act on the Apr. 2004, 30; Ensign, Apr. 2004, 18. Duty to God, “Quorum Activities,” Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Father, Direction We Are Given” with stories Use this article to supplement the dis- (Deacon), no. 4; (Teacher), no. 5. Son, and Holy Ghost,” Liahona and from the article. cussion of priesthood offices. Lesson 22: Duties of Priests Ensign, Mar. 1998, 2. Begin the pres- Richard G. Scott, “First Things Brenda Williams, “My Terrible, “The Miracle of the Priesthood,” entation of testimonies with portions First,” Liahona, July 2001, 6; Ensign, Horrible Day,” Liahona, Sept. 2002, Liahona, Apr. 2004, 26; New Era, Apr. of this article. May 2001, 6. Consider using the first 22; New Era, Sept. 2001, 34. Consider 2004, 12. Add the answers to these Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Grandeur paragraph and the paragraph begin- adding this story to the discussion on questions to your discussion about of God,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. ning with “Throughout your life on the blessings from the priesthood. the role of a priest. 2003, 70. Share the first two para- earth . . .” with “We Have a Purpose in Lesson 13: The Priesthood Can “Priesthood Restored,” Liahona, graphs to introduce the lesson. Life.” Bless Families Apr. 2004, 30; Ensign, Apr. 2004, 18. Personal Progress, “Individual Personal Progress, “Divine Nature L. Tom Perry, “Fatherhood, an Share the experiences of the priests Worth Value Experiences,” no. 1. Value Experiences,” no. 1. Eternal Calling,” Liahona and Ensign,

122 May 2004, 69. Use the teachings on Liahona, July 2001, 37; Ensign, May Personal Progress, “Faith Value Personal Progress, “Faith Value the roles of fathers as you discuss 2001, 32. Consider inviting two young Experiences,” no. 2. Experiences,” no. 6. ways young women can support their women to teach using the “Physical Lesson 20: Understanding a Lesson 23: Overcoming fathers. Preparation for the Temple” and Missionary’s Responsibilities Opposition Merrill J. Bateman, “Priesthood, “Spiritual Preparation for the Temple” M. Russell Ballard, “The Greatest Joseph B. Wirthlin, “Finding a Keys, and the Power to Bless,” sections. Generation of Missionaries,” Liahona Safe Harbor,” Liahona, July 2000, 71; Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2003, 50. F. David Stanley, “The Most and Ensign, Nov. 2002, 46. Consider Ensign May 2000, 59. Use the butter- Share Elder Bateman’s story instead Important Step,” Liahona, Oct. 2001, introducing the lesson with ideas fly concept as an object lesson. of the case studies. 34; New Era, June 2000, 20. Use the from this article. “Questions and Answers,” Lesson 14: We Have a Wonderful “Preparing for the Temple” section “Teaching from the Heart,” Liahona, Feb. 2001, 22; New Era, July Legacy to supplement the discussion on Liahona, June 2004, 8; Ensign, June 2003, 16. Use this article to introduce Gordon B. Hinckley, “Four preparation. 2004, 6. Prayerfully use sections of the lesson topic. Cornerstones of Faith,” Liahona and Personal Progress, “Integrity this article to discuss how missionar- Lesson 24: Agency Ensign, Feb. 2004, 2. Use the corner- Value Project,” bullet 5. ies teach the gospel. Lynn G. Robbins, “Agency and stones idea to supplement the discus- Lesson 18: Temple Marriage Lesson 21: Learning to Share Anger,” Ensign, May 1998, 80. Use the sion on the Restoration. Gordon B. Hinckley, “The the Gospel first part of this article in the section Robert D. Hales, “Receiving a Marriage That Endures,” Liahona and M. Russell Ballard, “Members Are “Agency Is the Power and Freedom to Testimony of the Restored Gospel of Ensign, July 2003, 2. Consider using the Key,” Liahona, Sept. 2000, 12; Choose.” Jesus Christ,” Liahona and Ensign, the story of the English couple. Ensign, Sept. 2000, 8. Add article Sharon G. Larsen, “Agency—A Nov. 2003, 28. Consider including “Planning Your Temple Wedding,” ideas to the discussion of member Blessing and a Burden,” Liahona, Jan. these ideas on the Apostasy and Liahona, Oct. 2004, 39; New Era, missionary work. 2000, 12; Ensign, Nov. 1999, 11. Use Restoration. Oct. 2004, 25. Use some of the infor- Richard M. Romney, “To the Ends this article to help the young women Lesson 15: Blessings of the mation in this article as you discuss of the Earth,” Liahona, Jan. 2003, 26; understand that commandments do House of Israel the blessings of temple marriage. New Era, Jan. 2003, 20. Tell about the not limit freedom. “About Patriarchal Blessings,” Tamara Leatham Bailey, “The experiences of the youth in the article. Personal Progress, “Choice and Liahona, Mar. 2004, 18; New Era, Temple-Going Type,” Liahona, May Personal Progress, “Good Works Accountability Value Experiences,” Mar. 2004, 32. Use this article to teach 1999, 46; New Era, Apr. 1998, 34. Value Experiences,” no. 7. no. 1. about patriarchal blessings. Consider using this story with the Lesson 22: Eternal Perspective Lesson 25: Obedience Personal Progress, “Individual first three questions in the lesson. James E. Faust, “Who Do You James E. Faust, “Obedience: The Worth Value Experiences,” no. 6. Lesson 19: Heritage Think You Are?” Liahona, June 2001, Path to Freedom,” Liahona, July Lesson 16: Temple Endowment Dallin H. Oaks, “Repentance and 2; New Era, Mar. 2001, 4. Consider 1999, 53; Ensign, May 1999, 45. Use Howard W. Hunter, “A Temple- Change,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. using ideas from this article in the this article to show that command- Motivated People,” Liahona, Mar. 2003, 37. Use this article with discussion about who we really are. ments bless us by protecting us from 2004, 40; Ensign, Mar. 2004, 38. Use Helaman 15:7–8. L. Lionel Kendrick, “Strength dur- bondage. the article to discuss the blessings of Jeffrey R. Holland, “A Prayer for ing Struggles,” Liahona, Mar. 2002, Donald L. Staheli, “Obedience— the temple. the Children,” Liahona and Ensign, 28; Ensign, Oct. 2001, 24. Consider Life’s Great Challenge,” Ensign, May Lesson 17: Preparing to Attend May 2003, 85. Supplement the discus- adding the section about positive 1998, 81. Use the story about the dog the Temple sion on what kind of ancestors we can perspective to the discussion about to introduce the lesson. Russell M. Nelson, “Personal be with the article section on what having a positive attitude during Personal Progress, “Divine Nature Preparation for Temple Blessings,” our children must know from us. trials. Value Experiences,” no. 5. ■

NOVEMBER 2004 123 Salt Lake Valley. President Hinckley indicated that if membership in the state con- tinues to grow as predicted, a fourth temple may be needed in the valley. With these new temples added to others previously announced or now under construction, within a few years the Church will have 130 working temples. “Others will be con- structed as the Church con- tinues to grow,” President Hinckley promised. The temples are part of an unparalleled building President Thomas S. Monson (at the pulpit) and members of the First Presidency and Quorum program undertaken by the of the Twelve Apostles sustain Church leaders. Church to meet the rapid growth of membership world- wide. President Hinckley told New Apostles, New Temples Announced members that there are cur- ne loved to fly, the General Conference of the temple in Idaho and follows rently 451 meetinghouses other to teach—voca- Church, held 2–3 October the announcement earlier around the world in one Otions not far removed 2004. It was just one of sev- this year that a temple will be stage of construction or from their new callings to eral announcements signifi- built in Rexburg, Idaho, near another. uplift and inspire. Elder cant to Church members. the campus of BYU—Idaho. “This tremendous building Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Elder President Hinckley also Idaho is home to more than program is phenomenal. I David A. Bednar have been announced plans for two new 366,000 Latter-day Saints. know of nothing to equal it.” called to fill the vacancies in temples to be constructed to A site has yet to be named Included among all of that the Quorum of the Twelve meet the needs of steadily for the new temple in the Salt construction will soon be the Apostles left by the recent swelling membership in Idaho Lake Valley, which will be the historic Salt Lake Tabernacle deaths of Elder David B. and in the Salt Lake Valley. 12th in Utah to serve the on Temple Square, one of the Haight and Elder Neal A. The Twin Falls Idaho state’s more than 1.7 million “unique architectural master- Maxwell. (See the following Temple will be the fourth members and the third in the pieces in the entire world,” pages for more on the new President Hinckley said. Apostles.) Beginning in January, the 137- Elder Robert C. Oaks, year-old structure will close to a member of the Second undergo an 18-month seismic Quorum of the Seventy, was renovation to strengthen called to fill the vacancy in the 44 sandstone pillars and the Presidency of the Seventy foundation and to attach the created by Elder Uchtdorf’s famous adapted bridgework call to the Twelve. roof more securely. The announcement of the Released during the con- two new Apostles took place ference were six members at the beginning of President of the Second Quorum of Gordon B. Hinckley’s open- the Seventy and 17 Area ing remarks during the Authority Seventies. (See Saturday morning session “The Sustaining of Church of the 174th Semiannual More than 20,000 Saints fill the Conference Center. Officers,” p. 22.) ■

124 After becoming one which brought hope and of the two newest members peace back into my life” of the Quorum of the Twelve (“The Global Church Blessed Apostles, Elder Uchtdorf by the Voice of the Prophets,” again emphasized that con- Liahona and Ensign, Nov. viction. Although cultures 2002, 11). and backgrounds may be dif- In addresses to Church ferent, “the challenges are members, Elder Uchtdorf has the same,” he said at a press stressed the importance of conference. And the answer knowing one’s eternal desti- to those challenges can be nation and always seeking found in the application of to be on the right path. He gospel principles. “This recalled one flight when, as gospel has so much to offer.” an airline captain, he was Born to Karl A. and crossing the Atlantic in a Hildegard Opelt Uchtdorf Boeing 747 with 386 passen- in Mährisch-Ostrau, Czecho- gers on board. At one point slovakia, on 6 November he saw the contrails of two 1940, and raised in Germany, other jetliners ahead. Soon Elder Uchtdorf is the first he was flying directly between Apostle born outside the the two jetliners, with one United States to be called in 2,000 feet (600 meters) more than 50 years. But he above him and the other affirms that he has not been 2,000 feet below. “As we called to represent any par- slowly overtook those ticular group. The Apostles, he says, are “here to represent Jesus Christ, the Savior.” Elder Uchtdorf has a firm testimony of the Atonement and of its power to heal. As a Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf child growing up Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles after World War II, he remembers playing in n an interview with the people, regardless of culture bombed-out houses Friend magazine several or ethnicity. “I know from and living “with the Iyears ago, Elder Dieter going to those different ever-present conse- Friedrich Uchtdorf remi- places and seeing the peo- quences of a lost war nisced about his 35 years as ple and the Church in those and the awareness that an airline pilot. He never different places that the my own country had tired of gazing at the clouds, gospel is for everyone, no inflicted terrible pain on the stars, and the landscapes matter what nation you live many nations. . . . The spread out below him, he in or what your traditions good news that Jesus said. As he traveled through- are,” he said. “The word of Christ has made the out the world, his apprecia- God . . . is for every culture, perfect Atonement for tion for the differences in in every nation” (“Elder mankind, redeeming countries and cultures Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the all from the grave and increased, but as a Church Seventy,” Liahona, Apr. rewarding each individ- member he recognized that 1999, F4; see Friend, June ual according to his or her Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf the gospel could unite all 1998, 7). works, was the healing power greets Elder E. Ray Bateman.

NOVEMBER 2004 125 beautiful aircraft,” he recalled, flight operations and chief “my copilot mentioned how pilot of Lufthansa German remarkable it was that be- Airlines. cause of true and accurate In December 1962 Elder information entered into the Uchtdorf married Harriet navigation units at the start of Reich and was sealed to her in our flights, all three jets were the Bern Switzerland Temple. precisely on the same track, They are the parents of two separated only by altitude. children and have five grand- And we would continue to be children. Elder Uchtdorf has so if the crews used identical served as a stake president, navigational points leading to member of several Area the same destination. Presidencies, member of the “As I have contemplated Quorums of the Seventy, and the truth of this statement member of the Presidency of and its application to our the Seventy. lives,” he continued, “I Elder and Sister Uchtdorf arrived at the question: Do know that his new calling we all know our destination, can come only from the and are we on the right Lord. “Our hearts are joyous track? . . . Heavenly Father to receive such a great has prepared a flight plan responsibility,” he says. “If for us that will lead us back we [didn’t] know that the to him” (“Happy Landing,” Church was true and that we New Era, Mar. 1995, 4). have a living prophet at this Elder Uchtdorf received time, then we would doubt an education in engineering this. But we know the and later studied business Church is true, and we know administration and interna- that Gordon B. Hinckley is tional management. During the true prophet today. So the last seven years of his we know that the call to professional career, he was serve in this holy apostleship ■ senior vice president of is right.” Elder David A. Bednar Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ne month before Elder spiritual resources that can David Allan Bednar assist us in developing and Oreceived his life- deepening our devotion as changing call, he addressed disciples of the Lord Jesus thousands of students on the Christ,” he said (address campus of Brigham Young delivered at BYU—Idaho University—Idaho as presi- devotional, 31 Aug. 2004). dent of the university. He Little did he know that in suggested that BYU— his past seven years of service Idaho is much like an MTC as president of BYU—Idaho (Missionary Training Center), (formerly Ricks College) he calling the school a “DPC”—a was not only helping to pre- Disciple Preparation Center. pare disciples but was being Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (right) and Elder David A. Bednar “In this special and sacred prepared to become one of offer each other support after taking their seats with the and set-apart place, you and twelve disciples called to Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. I have access to unparalleled serve as Apostles of the Lord.

126 Now Elder Bednar recog- When Elder Bednar marriage, in the late 1970s, held many unforgettable nizes that he was being pre- moved away from Provo, he that Elder Bednar received a moments, many from his pared and equipped to help left with more than a degree. long-hoped-for phone call. It experiences with Church call- build the kingdom of God. It was there that he met was his father asking him to ings. At age 30, Elder Bednar When he became the head of his future wife, Susan K. come home to California to was called as a member of a what was then Ricks College, Robinson. She was at BYU perform a baptism—his own. stake presidency in Arkansas. he humbly said he didn’t studying to receive a degree Elder Bednar was born on He then served as a bishop, know how to be a president in education, and they were 15 June 1952, in San Leandro, twice as a stake president, of a college, but he did know in the same student ward. California, to Anthony George and later as a regional repre- how to teach—he had been a One Monday night their fam- and Lavina Whitney Bednar. sentative, Area Authority, and professor for 21 years. At the ily home evening groups got He is the youngest of three Area Authority Seventy. first devotional of the year he together to play a game of children by 15 years. On 1 October, President turned an auditorium filled flag football. Susan was on “I honestly believe that’s Gordon B. Hinckley extended with students into a huge the receiving end of a long why I was born. Not to teach an apostolic call to Elder classroom, asking the stu- pass by Elder Bednar, who [my father], but to assist him Bednar, less than 24 hours dents to open their scriptures had been a quarterback for in learning about the restored before he was sustained by and to take notes. his high school team. He was gospel,” Elder Bednar says. Church members throughout Before coming to BYU— very impressed by her catch, His father was an honest, the world. Idaho, Elder Bednar was a but he didn’t know that the straightforward man. He “I think I know better professor at the University pass reception was the only attended church with young than anyone that within The of Arkansas in Fayetteville. one she can remember ever David all his life, coached Church of Jesus Christ of There he served as director catching (see “I’m a Teacher the softball team, and took Latter-day Saints there are of the Management Decision- Who Is Now a College Scouts on trips. He sup- literally hundreds and thou- Making Lab from 1992 to President,” Summit, 1997, ported Elder Bednar’s deci- sands of men better qualified, 1997, associate dean for grad- 10). Still, there was a connec- sion to serve a mission to more able than I,” he says, uate studies in the College of tion made, and the couple Germany. He told his young “but I do know from whence Business Administration from was sealed in the Salt Lake son, “I’ll join this Church the call has come. And so I’m 1987 to 1992, and assistant Temple in 1975. They now when I know it’s the right honored to respond. I look professor of management have three sons and three thing to do” (see Summit, forward to serving, and I’m from 1980 to 1984. He also grandchildren. 1997, 9–10). anxious for the opportunity was an assistant professor at It was after the couple’s The years since then have to be able to learn.” ■ Texas Tech University from 1984 to 1986. Elder Bednar distinguished himself as a talented teacher, winning the 1994 Burlington Northern Foundation Award for Outstanding Teaching. He has authored articles that have appeared in scholarly journals and magazines and coauthored two books on organizational behavior, his field of study. In 1980 he received a Ph.D. in organiza- tional behavior from Purdue University. He graduated from Brigham Young University in 1976 with a B.A. in communi- cation and a year later with an M.A. in organizational Elder David A. Bednar (center) leaves the rostrum with Elder L. Tom Perry (right) and communication. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf.

NOVEMBER 2004 127 “Our desire is that the Church Church magazines in every “Teachings for Our Time” magazines be found in every home and their teachings Latter-day Saint home.” demonstrated in every life.” Changes Announced “In a world that competes Members in the United for our time with a great deal States and Canada can sub- eginning this month, general conference will keep of printed and visual material scribe to the Church maga- all fourth-Sunday the spirit of general confer- not worthy of our attention, zines online at ldscatalog B“Teachings for Our ence and the teachings of the how grateful I am for the mag- .com or by calling 1-800-537- Time” lessons will be taken Brethren current in the lives azines of the Church which 5971. Outside the United from the most recent general of the members,” says Elder put inspirational, attractive, States and Canada, members conference issue of the Holland. ennobling material at our fin- should contact their local dis- Liahona or Ensign, accord- Stake and district presiden- gertips,” says Elder Holland. tribution center or their ward ing to a letter and instruc- cies may oversee the selection “In our magazines there is or branch leaders. tions from President Boyd K. of which talk or talks will be something for everyone— Copies of general confer- Packer, Acting President of used each month. from the youngest to the ence talks will also be available the Quorum of the Twelve “We encourage members most elderly—and the gener- online by mid-November in 19 Apostles, to priesthood lead- to bring the most recent gen- ous support of the Church languages at www.lds.org ers, dated 1 October 2004. eral conference issue of the makes the cost for these under “Gospel Library.” According to Elder magazine with them to their materials far less expensive Instructors of “Teachings Jeffrey R. Holland of the Melchizedek Priesthood and than virtually any other maga- for Our Time” lessons can find Quorum of the Twelve Relief Society classes on zine or resource to which we suggestions for how to teach Apostles, the change sup- every fourth Sunday,” says could subscribe. In our age using general conference talks ports oft-spoken counsel Elder Holland. “Ward and and time, we need to have the on page 120 of this issue. ■ from Church leaders on the branch leaders should ensure importance of studying what that all members have access is said during general confer- to the Church magazines.” Conference Interpretation ence (see sidebar below). Elder Holland cited a letter “We hope this regular from the First Presidency sent Reaches 70 Languages reference to the preceding on 18 July 2004 that stated, uring the October 2004 broadcast of general Dconference, approxi- What Modern-Day Prophets mately 600 people helped interpret speakers’ words into Have Said about Conference 70 languages—three more than during the April 2004 ay [general confer- in a sense, a supplement conference. The newly added ence] become an to or an extension of the languages are Papiamento, Manchor in our lives, Doctrine and Covenants” Slovak, and Urdu. a guide by which to live” (President Howard W. In the translation booth, (President Gordon B. Hunter, “The Heavens Are interpreters see and hear the Hinckley, “A Time of New Open,” from Come unto Me, broadcast as they interpret. Beginnings,” Liahona, July Church video, 1988). Thanks to modern technol- Interpreters helped 2000, 106; Ensign, May “For the next six months, ogy, there is virtually no time members hear general 2000, 87). your conference edition of delay from when the words conference in more “Our modern-day the Ensign [or Liahona] are spoken in English to languages than ever before. prophets have encouraged should stand next to your when members can hear the us to make the reading of standard works and be translated words in different from the Conference Center, the conference editions of referred to frequently” countries around the world. allowing for a reduction in our Church magazines an (President Ezra Taft Benson, Last month, 15 languages travel costs. The Church important and regular part “Come unto Christ, and Be were interpreted remotely by plans to remotely translate of our personal study. Thus, Perfected in Him,” Ensign, translators watching confer- additional languages in the general conference becomes, May 1988, 84). ■ ence thousands of miles away future. ■

128 . g, and Elder Robert C. Oaks. g, and Elder Robert The Presidency of the Seventy Standing (from left) are Elder Merrill J. Bateman, Elder John H. Grober Seated (from left) are Elder Earl C. Tingey, Elder D. Todd Christofferson, Elder David E. Sorensen, and Elder Charles Didier Elder D. Todd Seated (from left) are Elder Earl C. Tingey, Front cover: President Gordon B. Hinckley greets the two newest members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (center) and Elder David A. Bednar (left). In his opening remarks at the 174th Semiannual General Conference, 2–3 October 2004, President Hinckley commented on the condition of the Church: “It continues to grow. It is touching the lives of more and more people every year. It is spreading far and wide over the earth. . . . There is greater vitality in all aspects of the work than we have ever seen before.” 4 24 11000 02249 24911 Nov 04 5