Summary
Highlights
The session opens with music from the Tabernacle Choir, followed by welcoming remarks from President Henry B. Eyring. He acknowledges members worldwide, the limited in-person attendance due to COVID-19, and pays tribute to Elder Dean M. Davies who passed away. He also details the safety measures taken for the choir's participation.
President Russell M. Nelson welcomes attendees, emphasizing the importance of seeking revelation and reflection during the conference. He highlights the ongoing challenges of COVID-19 and thanks members for following health guidance. He invites listeners to focus on pure truth, the pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation, stressing the vital importance of knowledge of the Savior in resolving conflicts and staying on the covenant path.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland discusses the story of the rich young ruler, using it to advocate for wholehearted and unreserved devotion to Christ. He quotes C.S. Lewis to illustrate the Lord's desire for our entire being and emphasizes that God is forgiving. He encourages seeking a “higher and holier life” and reflects on a Book of Mormon era where people had no contention due to the love of God, becoming 'children of Christ.' He concludes by testifying that following Christ involves commitment and sacrifice.
Sister Bonnie H. Corden addresses youth and all members, affirming their cherished identity as children of Heavenly Father. She shares two foundational truths from President Nelson: knowing who you are and knowing your purpose. She likens distraction from purpose to a childhood soccer game anecdote and encourages active participation in Christ's work, inviting all to 'come unto Christ, and do not come alone.'
Elder Ulisses Soares reflects on the Savior's compassion, particularly through the example of Jesus's visit to Simon the Pharisee. He emphasizes that Jesus showed compassion to all, especially those in need, and that compassion is rooted in charity—the pure love of Christ. He encourages members to cultivate compassion, avoid harsh judgments, and become more sensitive to others' needs, using a personal story of a girl with a cleft lip and palate as an example. He testifies of Jesus as the perfect model of mercy.
Elder Clark G. Gilbert uses a mathematical analogy of intercepts and slopes to illustrate divine potential and personal progress. He explains that while our starting points ('intercepts') may vary, our growth and direction ('slopes') are what truly matter to God. He encourages those with difficult beginnings to focus on their potential with the Lord's help and those with advantages to cultivate humility and seek continuous improvement, emphasizing that Christ helps us turn our slopes toward heaven, reaching our divine potential.
Elder Patricio M. Giuffra shares his personal journey of discovering the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age fourteen. He recounts being taught by missionaries about Jesus Christ, the Apostasy, and the Restoration through Joseph Smith's First Vision, and the Book of Mormon. He testifies of the truth of these teachings, the reality of God the Father and Jesus Christ, and the power of faith in Christ, which transformed his and his mother's lives.
President Dallin H. Oaks addresses the decline in church attendance across various faiths, arguing against the idea that individual spirituality can replace the need for organized religion. He emphasizes that churches, including the restored Church of Jesus Christ, help individuals apply religious principles, serve others, and foster spiritual growth through doctrine, priesthood authority, and ordinances. He highlights the benefits of church community, unselfish service, and the unique blessings available only through the restored Church, such as eternal family relationships.
The session concludes with a benediction offered by Sister Amy A. Wright, expressing gratitude for God and Jesus Christ and praying that all within their influence will focus more on Christ. The Tabernacle Choir performs 'My Redeemer Lives' before the final closing remarks.