Summary
Highlights
Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles welcomes attendees to the Saturday afternoon session of the 195th Annual General Conference. He extends love to all and asks for divine blessings. The session begins with a choir of young men and young women from northern Utah singing “Sing Praise to Him,” followed by an invocation from Elder Alan T. Phillips of the Seventy, who expresses gratitude for Jesus Christ's Atonement and prophet guidance, and prays for those in need.
Elder Neil L. Andersen speaks on the sanctity of life, illustrating with a story of a young woman who, facing an unexpected pregnancy, was supported by her ward family. He emphasizes the Church's stance against elective abortion, while acknowledging rare exceptions like rape or severe health risks. He highlights the importance of ministering with loving-kindness to individuals in fragile times and nurturing unborn life as a moral law, not a political one. He encourages speaking with faith and compassion about chastity and care for mothers and their unborn children.
President Steven J. Lund discusses the power and purpose of the Aaronic Priesthood, reflecting on the ordination of thousands of young men worldwide. He shares an anecdote about deacons who, through consistent service, transformed a hostile neighbor into a friend and ultimately led him to seek baptism. He also recounts a bishop's profound experience administering the sacrament after a personal tragedy, highlighting the eternal significance of the sacramental covenant and the blessings it brings through the ministering of angels.
Elder S. Mark Palmer uses the analogy of a fallen willow tree that regrew stronger to represent individuals returning to faith. He shares stories of members who left the Church and later returned, emphasizing that while the journey back can be difficult, it is always worth it. He encourages patience in growing faith, nurturing it through sacrament and temple worship, being sensitive to the Spirit, and recognizing one's divine potential. He testifies that Jesus Christ never gives up on individuals and extends an invitation to all to come back to their spiritual home.
Elder Sandino Roman illustrates the principle of faith as trust through a personal drowning experience and President Nelson’s teaching on seeking the Lord’s power. He encourages young people to increase their trust in Christ by meditating on His blessings, recording spiritual experiences, and praying sincerely. He explains that making and honoring covenants builds hope and faith, leading to a profound loyalty to Christ. He advises walking undaunted towards challenges with faith as a guiding light, expecting miracles while letting God prevail.
Elder Dale G. Renlund addresses anxieties about the Second Coming, emphasizing that preparation is simple and leads to optimism. He references three parables from Matthew 25: the ten virgins (be wise by accepting the gospel, having the Holy Ghost, and avoiding deception), the talents (magnify God-given abilities without comparison), and the sheep and goats (serve others as serving God). He shares a poem about 'Farmer Paavo' to illustrate selfless service, inviting everyone to trust the Holy Ghost, rely on loved ones, and use their gifts to bless others, thus preparing the world for the Savior's return.
Elder Hans T. Boom shares stories of pioneers, including Mary Wanlass, and his own parents, highlighting their unwavering faith and commitment to the gospel amidst trials. He contrasts his parents' experiences with modern challenges, emphasizing the importance of embracing and living by covenants. He expresses gratitude for their example and encourages everyone to learn from the faith of previous generations and to prepare for missionary service. He concludes by inviting all to make the Savior the center of their lives and pass on a legacy of faith and celestial commitment.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf recounts an experience where his friend was deeply impressed by the love and kindness within a small, humble branch of the Church, despite his own initial embarrassment over perceived imperfections. He emphasizes that the Church's true strength lies in its members' love for one another, which helps others feel closer to Jesus Christ. He acknowledges that there will always be a gap between the ideal and reality in mortal life but encourages patience and diligence in striving towards the Savior's standards. He clarifies that unity in Christ means facing the same direction toward Jesus Christ, rather than being identical, and that everyone, with their unique differences, is needed in the body of Christ.
Sister J. Anette Dennis offers the benediction, expressing gratitude for the conference, Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice, and President Nelson. She prays for Church members worldwide, especially those facing trials, asking for comfort and the love of the Savior. She also prays for missionaries to find those seeking truth and for the conference messages to sustain all in following Christ more closely, serving as examples wherever they are.