Summary
Highlights
The Sunday afternoon session of the 196th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints opens with organ music from the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, followed by welcoming remarks by Elder Dale G. Renlund. The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square performs "He Is Risen!" in celebration of Easter Sunday. Elder Hugo Martinez of the Seventy offers the invocation, expressing gratitude for leaders and seeking blessings for attendees to receive insights.
President D. Todd Christofferson speaks about acquiring the character of Christ, emphasizing three motivations: charity (pure love of Christ), fostering the happiness and advancement of others, and glorifying God. He notes that a "mighty change of heart" happens incrementally but requires faith, repentance, baptismal covenant, and the grace of Jesus Christ through the Holy Ghost. He illustrates these points with anecdotes and scriptural references, urging individuals to emulate Christ's attributes and prepare for His Second Coming.
Elder Chi Hong Sam Wong of the Seventy discusses five "Remember, remember" verses from the Book of Mormon: the blessed state of those who keep commandments, the consequences of not keeping them, salvation through Jesus Christ's atoning blood, building a foundation on Christ to withstand spiritual storms, and the gift of knowledge and agency. He emphasizes remembering the Savior, especially during Easter, and using agency wisely to prepare for His return.
Elder Aaron T. Hall of the Seventy shares his testimony, echoing Nephi's phrase, "I glory in my Jesus." He explores various names and roles of Jesus Christ, such as Redeemer, Good Shepherd, Healer, Advocate, Lawgiver, and Deliverer, and how each inspires gratitude and strengthens personal relationships with the Savior. He encourages drawing near to Christ by learning, listening, and walking with Him, highlighting the power of covenants and the opportunity for personal transformation through His love and mercy.
Primary General President Susan H. Porter addresses children, affirming their divine purpose and ability to make a difference. She explains Heavenly Father's plan of happiness and Jesus Christ's role in helping them return home. She encourages children to say, "Here am I, send me," like Jesus, and to act on promptings from the Holy Ghost to love and serve others. She shares examples of children bringing God's love to their communities and emphasizes that even small offerings can lead to miracles.
Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speaks about the eternal nature of marriage as ordained by God, emphasizing the sealing power restored through Elijah. He testifies of the sacredness of temple covenants and the journey of spiritual development in marriage. He shares personal anecdotes and stories of couples who, through faith, patience, and commitment to covenants, navigated challenges and found joy. He stresses that the Lord honors patient faith and that it's never too late for miracles, urging couples to hold tightly to each other and Christ.
Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles highlights the significance of Easter coinciding with the appearance of the Savior in the Kirtland Temple in 1836. He explains Elijah's crucial role in restoring the sealing power of the priesthood, which enables eternal families. He recounts experiences with Jewish leaders in temples, emphasizing the connection between ancient prophecies and modern temple work, and encourages members to study the Savior's life and the restoration of sealing keys to feel spiritual confirmation.
Elder Taniela B. Wakolo of the Seventy speaks about the clarity and simplicity of prophetic messages that invite people to come unto Christ. He shares stories from different parts of the world, illustrating how individuals and families, despite varying circumstances and beliefs, make choices to draw closer to the Savior through patience, agency, and persistent invitation. He emphasizes that the gospel unites families eternally and that God honors faith, offering hope and blessings to all who seek Him.
Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reflects on the Easter story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, emphasizing how the resurrected Jesus Christ reveals Himself through scripture and sacred ordinances. He encourages members to worship Jesus Christ in His restored Church, keep covenants, and always remember Him. He explains the promises of the First Comforter (the Holy Ghost) and the Second Comforter (Christ Himself), inviting all to abide in Christ, ensuring joy and strength on their journey.
President Dallin H. Oaks provides concluding remarks for the conference, reflecting on the focus of the messages on Jesus Christ and His Father's plan. He reiterates the importance of marriage and family in God's plan and encourages all to demonstrate Christ-like love. He invites members to prayerfully study and ponder the conference messages, promising personal revelation and guidance for those who act in faith. The Tabernacle Choir performs "Redeemer of Israel," and Elder Anthony D. Perkins offers the benediction.