Summary
Highlights
The 195th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Sunday Morning Session opens with President Henry B. Eyring conducting. President Russell M. Nelson is viewing the conference from home. The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, joined by international members, performs 'Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah' and 'Praise to the Lord, the Almighty'.
Elder David A. Bednar speaks about the organization of the Church 195 years ago on April 6, 1830. He highlights three miraculous experiences leading to its restoration: Joseph Smith's First Vision, the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon, and the restoration of priesthood authority and keys by ancient prophets. Elder Bednar testifies that the Lord is fulfilling His promise to establish His restored Church throughout the world and calls on all to learn about and prove this message.
Elder Steven D. Shumway shares personal anecdotes and principles about participating in God's work. He emphasizes that serving prepares us for Christ's return, helps us progress, and transforms our homes and churches into holy places for covenant living. He also highlights that God provides grace for our weaknesses and that our worth is constant, independent of our obedience. He encourages inviting the 'unlikely' to serve, as it fosters growth and capacity.
Bishop Gerald Caussé addresses those facing difficult circumstances and limitations, assuring them of God's personal love and open blessings. He shares a personal experience where he received an apostolic blessing despite arriving late. He outlines three principles: God's perfect love, His justice and mercy in not holding us accountable for things beyond our control, and the strength available through Jesus Christ's Atonement. He emphasizes that if our earnest efforts fall short due to uncontrollable circumstances, the Lord accepts the desires of our hearts, citing examples like Alvin Smith.
Elder Gerrit W. Gong reflects on the phrase 'Jesus wept,' illustrating Christ's perfect understanding of human sorrow and joy. He connects Easter with the Atonement, Resurrection, and Restoration of the Church. He discusses how Christ can heal grief and enable forgiveness, freeing us from past hurts. He highlights the spiritual transformation available through Christ, freeing us from debilitating perfectionism. Elder Gong also acknowledges the shared religious heritage among various faiths and how Christ's life and light testify of God's universal love for all His children.
Elder John A. McCune discusses a convert's journey to discipleship and explores the meaning of being a disciple of Christ. He emphasizes that God the Father loves us perfectly, and we can trust Him. He explains that Jesus Christ is both the example and the means to understand the Father's attributes. Through covenant discipleship, our relationship with Christ expands, and we are blessed with spiritual power. He shares an experience with President Russell M. Nelson, who exuded joy and Christlike attention despite recent personal tragedy, demonstrating how joy and eternal perspective come through making and keeping covenants.
President Dallin H. Oaks explains how God designed mortality with opposition to foster spiritual growth. He identifies four divine helps given to guide us: the Light of Christ, which allows us to discern good from evil; scriptural directions, including commandments, ordinances, and covenants, which define the path to eternal life; manifestations of the Holy Ghost, which provide spiritual witness; and the gift of the Holy Ghost, given after baptism, which offers ongoing guidance and comfort. He expresses disappointment at those who remain unprepared for Christ's Second Coming, emphasizing the importance of consistent spiritual maintenance and trusting in the Lord.