Summary
Highlights
President Dallin H. Oaks announces the passing of President Russell M. Nelson and his upcoming funeral. He emphasizes President Nelson's love for music, leading to a performance by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square singing "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." Elder Arnulfo Valenzuela offers an invocation, expressing gratitude for President Nelson's devoted service and unwavering witness of Jesus Christ.
President Dallin H. Oaks shares personal anecdotes and quotes from President Nelson, highlighting his teaching and example of love. He notes President Nelson's commitment to peacemaking, racial harmony, and extending love to all children of God, even those who felt separated from Christ. President Oaks concludes by expressing his deep love for President Nelson and his teachings.
President Susan H. Porter recounts her personal experiences with President Nelson, emphasizing his compassionate ministering even during his own times of grief. She shares stories of his quiet visits to her ailing husband, Bruce, and an apostolic blessing in Siberia that brought healing. She testifies of his love and calls him a prophet of God.
Bishop GéRald Caussé shares his perspective on working closely with President Nelson, describing him as a true shepherd with unwavering faith, pure love, and profound compassion. He highlights President Nelson's remarkable memory for names, his ability to lead through challenges, and his gift for expressing eternal truths clearly. Bishop Caussé also shares a personal story of President Nelson's devotion to family and his inspired counsel.
Elder Carl B. Cook speaks about President Nelson's Christ-like example, focusing on his genuine interest in others and his personal touch. He shares instances where President Nelson addressed individuals by name, engaged in thoughtful conversations, and showed compassion for small details. Elder Cook emphasizes that President Nelson's primary language was love, ingrained deeply in his soul, and testifies of him as God's prophet.
The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square performs a moving rendition of "I Feel My Savior's Love,". This musical performance serves as a reflective interlude and reinforces the themes of love and devotion brought forth by the previous speakers.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland speaks about President Nelson's exceptional character, honed through his illustrious career and devotion to the Church. He describes President Nelson as a 'living temple,' highlighting his profound faith in Jesus Christ, his dedication to his family, and his tireless efforts in building and promoting temples worldwide. Elder Holland expresses his honor in knowing and loving President Nelson.
Elder Henry B. Eyring shares his personal testimony of President Nelson as a prophet of God, noting how his words resonated with members globally. He reinforces President Nelson's teachings on revelation, both for the Church and for individuals. Elder Eyring recounts early life experiences that brought him a similar assurance of other prophets' divine calls and emphasizes President Nelson's unique capacity to remember and love people, making everyone feel valued.
President Dallin H. Oaks thanks all participants. The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square then performs "His Eye Is on the Sparrow." Sister Amy A. Wright offers the benediction, expressing gratitude for President Nelson's exemplary life, faith, compassion, and Christ-like love, and for his wife Wendy's unwavering devotion and support in his prophetic calling.