WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:10.050 align:middle line:90% 00:00:10.050 --> 00:00:13.380 align:middle line:84% From the Conference Center at Temple Square in Salt Lake 00:00:13.380 --> 00:00:16.560 align:middle line:84% City, this is the Saturday morning session 00:00:16.560 --> 00:00:20.770 align:middle line:84% of the 188th Semiannual General Conference 00:00:20.770 --> 00:00:24.430 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 00:00:24.430 --> 00:00:28.220 align:middle line:84% with speakers selected from the General Authorities and General 00:00:28.220 --> 00:00:29.920 align:middle line:90% Officers of the Church. 00:00:29.920 --> 00:00:33.450 align:middle line:84% Music for this session is provided by the Tabernacle 00:00:33.450 --> 00:00:35.360 align:middle line:90% Choir at Temple Square. 00:00:35.360 --> 00:00:37.880 align:middle line:84% Members and officers of the Church 00:00:37.880 --> 00:00:40.120 align:middle line:84% gather from all areas of the world 00:00:40.120 --> 00:00:43.240 align:middle line:84% to receive counsel and instruction from their Church 00:00:43.240 --> 00:00:45.460 align:middle line:90% leaders. 00:00:45.460 --> 00:00:48.120 align:middle line:84% This broadcast is furnished as a public service 00:00:48.120 --> 00:00:49.770 align:middle line:90% by Bonneville Distribution. 00:00:49.770 --> 00:00:52.780 align:middle line:84% Any reproduction, recording, transcription, 00:00:52.780 --> 00:00:56.080 align:middle line:84% or other use of this program without written consent 00:00:56.080 --> 00:00:56.810 align:middle line:90% is prohibited. 00:00:56.810 --> 00:01:00.580 align:middle line:90% 00:01:00.580 --> 00:01:03.680 align:middle line:84% President Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor 00:01:03.680 --> 00:01:05.560 align:middle line:84% in the First Presidency of the Church, 00:01:05.560 --> 00:01:07.150 align:middle line:90% will conduct this session. 00:01:07.150 --> 00:01:17.210 align:middle line:90% 00:01:17.210 --> 00:01:20.920 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, we welcome you 00:01:20.920 --> 00:01:27.470 align:middle line:84% to the Saturday morning session of the 188th Semiannual General 00:01:27.470 --> 00:01:32.260 align:middle line:84% Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 00:01:32.260 --> 00:01:33.440 align:middle line:90% Saints. 00:01:33.440 --> 00:01:36.760 align:middle line:84% It is wonderful to gather together, 00:01:36.760 --> 00:01:39.300 align:middle line:84% and we extend our love and greetings 00:01:39.300 --> 00:01:43.490 align:middle line:84% to members and friends participating in the conference 00:01:43.490 --> 00:01:45.390 align:middle line:90% throughout the world. 00:01:45.390 --> 00:01:51.200 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson, who presides at the conference, 00:01:51.200 --> 00:01:55.970 align:middle line:84% has asked that I conduct this session. 00:01:55.970 --> 00:01:58.210 align:middle line:84% We acknowledge the General Authorities 00:01:58.210 --> 00:02:00.770 align:middle line:84% and the General Officers of the Church 00:02:00.770 --> 00:02:05.490 align:middle line:84% who will be in attendance throughout the conference. 00:02:05.490 --> 00:02:10.979 align:middle line:84% As you are aware, we note with sadness the passing last Monday 00:02:10.979 --> 00:02:17.340 align:middle line:84% of Sister Barbara Bowen Ballard, wife of President M. Russell 00:02:17.340 --> 00:02:23.150 align:middle line:84% Ballard, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:02:23.150 --> 00:02:27.580 align:middle line:84% Sister Ballard has been a pillar of strength and goodness 00:02:27.580 --> 00:02:31.060 align:middle line:84% throughout her life and has given tremendous support 00:02:31.060 --> 00:02:36.250 align:middle line:84% to her husband in his assignments over many years. 00:02:36.250 --> 00:02:41.330 align:middle line:84% We express our sincere love and condolences 00:02:41.330 --> 00:02:44.590 align:middle line:84% to the Ballard family and to others 00:02:44.590 --> 00:02:48.820 align:middle line:90% who will miss her presence. 00:02:48.820 --> 00:02:53.280 align:middle line:84% In noting the unusual number of natural disasters affecting 00:02:53.280 --> 00:02:56.720 align:middle line:84% so many throughout the world in recent months, 00:02:56.720 --> 00:03:02.030 align:middle line:84% we extend our heartfelt sympathy to those who have been affected 00:03:02.030 --> 00:03:07.660 align:middle line:84% by these events and express sincere appreciation to all who 00:03:07.660 --> 00:03:11.180 align:middle line:84% are helping in these dire circumstances--the 00:03:11.180 --> 00:03:15.550 align:middle line:84% firefighters, rescue workers, volunteers, 00:03:15.550 --> 00:03:19.420 align:middle line:84% and others who continue to address these difficult 00:03:19.420 --> 00:03:20.880 align:middle line:90% circumstances. 00:03:20.880 --> 00:03:25.760 align:middle line:84% We are pleased as a Church to join in the relief efforts 00:03:25.760 --> 00:03:30.510 align:middle line:84% and pray for the safety and peace of all involved 00:03:30.510 --> 00:03:35.010 align:middle line:90% in these tragic events. 00:03:35.010 --> 00:03:38.400 align:middle line:84% The music for this session will be by the Tabernacle Choir 00:03:38.400 --> 00:03:41.420 align:middle line:84% at Temple Square under the direction of Mack 00:03:41.420 --> 00:03:45.700 align:middle line:84% Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, with Brian Mathias and Richard 00:03:45.700 --> 00:03:47.440 align:middle line:90% Elliott at the organ. 00:03:47.440 --> 00:03:51.880 align:middle line:84% The choir opened this meeting with "Guide Us, O Thou Great 00:03:51.880 --> 00:03:57.590 align:middle line:84% Jehovah" and will now favor us with "The Morning Breaks." 00:03:57.590 --> 00:04:01.310 align:middle line:84% The invocation will then be offered by Elder Craig A. 00:04:01.310 --> 00:04:06.460 align:middle line:84% Cardon of the Seventy, after which the choir will sing 00:04:06.460 --> 00:04:09.190 align:middle line:90% "If I Listen with My Heart." 00:04:09.190 --> 00:04:15.677 align:middle line:90% 00:04:15.677 --> 00:07:59.056 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "THE MORNING BREAKS"] 00:07:59.056 --> 00:08:07.530 align:middle line:90% 00:08:07.530 --> 00:08:11.990 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father, with bowed heads and humble hearts, 00:08:11.990 --> 00:08:15.490 align:middle line:84% we express unto Thee our love and thank 00:08:15.490 --> 00:08:18.190 align:middle line:84% Thee for the gift of Thy Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, 00:08:18.190 --> 00:08:20.070 align:middle line:90% and His infinite Atonement. 00:08:20.070 --> 00:08:23.930 align:middle line:84% We thank Thee for thy prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, 00:08:23.930 --> 00:08:26.630 align:middle line:84% for the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve, 00:08:26.630 --> 00:08:29.490 align:middle line:84% and pray for them that Thou wilt sustain and uphold them 00:08:29.490 --> 00:08:32.250 align:middle line:84% as they direct the affairs of Thy kingdom. 00:08:32.250 --> 00:08:34.679 align:middle line:84% We thank Thee for the opportunity being 00:08:34.679 --> 00:08:37.159 align:middle line:84% met in this general conference of Thy Church, 00:08:37.159 --> 00:08:40.789 align:middle line:84% even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 00:08:40.789 --> 00:08:44.140 align:middle line:84% to receive Thy word and to understand Thy will for Thy 00:08:44.140 --> 00:08:46.490 align:middle line:90% Saints in these last days. 00:08:46.490 --> 00:08:50.690 align:middle line:84% We pray that Thou wilt bless us as Thy word is given unto us, 00:08:50.690 --> 00:08:53.880 align:middle line:84% as we come to know Thy will under the direction of Thy 00:08:53.880 --> 00:08:58.370 align:middle line:84% prophets, that we may receive Thy word with gladness, 00:08:58.370 --> 00:09:02.760 align:middle line:84% with faith and devotion, and act in faith to the accomplishment 00:09:02.760 --> 00:09:04.360 align:middle line:90% of Thy purposes. 00:09:04.360 --> 00:09:08.140 align:middle line:84% We pray that the people and nations of the earth 00:09:08.140 --> 00:09:11.030 align:middle line:84% may choose righteousness, that they 00:09:11.030 --> 00:09:13.510 align:middle line:84% may be blessed in their afflictions, 00:09:13.510 --> 00:09:16.610 align:middle line:84% that they may be comforted, and that Thy word may 00:09:16.610 --> 00:09:20.970 align:middle line:84% flow throughout the earth as Thou dost fulfill Thy covenant 00:09:20.970 --> 00:09:25.750 align:middle line:84% that Thou hast made, wherein all the families of the earth 00:09:25.750 --> 00:09:28.680 align:middle line:84% may be blessed with the blessings of the gospel, which 00:09:28.680 --> 00:09:31.930 align:middle line:84% are the blessings of salvation, even of life eternal. 00:09:31.930 --> 00:09:34.460 align:middle line:90% 00:09:34.460 --> 00:09:37.500 align:middle line:84% For these things we humbly pray, and for all 00:09:37.500 --> 00:09:39.270 align:middle line:84% those who will participate in this session 00:09:39.270 --> 00:09:42.920 align:middle line:84% of this conference, that all may be done according to Thy 00:09:42.920 --> 00:09:48.032 align:middle line:84% will, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:09:48.032 --> 00:10:00.482 align:middle line:90% 00:10:00.482 --> 00:13:40.966 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "IF I LISTEN WITH MY HEART"] 00:13:40.966 --> 00:13:51.382 align:middle line:90% 00:13:51.382 --> 00:13:58.300 align:middle line:84% It will now be our privilege to hear from our beloved prophet, 00:13:58.300 --> 00:14:01.510 align:middle line:90% President Russell M. Nelson. 00:14:01.510 --> 00:14:04.780 align:middle line:84% He will be followed by Elder Quentin L. 00:14:04.780 --> 00:14:09.160 align:middle line:84% Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:14:09.160 --> 00:14:13.630 align:middle line:84% We will then hear from Brother M. Joseph 00:14:13.630 --> 00:14:19.390 align:middle line:84% Brough, who serves as Second Counselor in the Young Men 00:14:19.390 --> 00:14:21.520 align:middle line:90% General Presidency. 00:14:21.520 --> 00:14:27.640 align:middle line:84% Elder Steven R. Bangerter of the Seventy will then address us. 00:14:27.640 --> 00:14:28.630 align:middle line:90% President Nelson. 00:14:28.630 --> 00:14:35.230 align:middle line:90% 00:14:35.230 --> 00:14:38.900 align:middle line:84% My dear brothers and sisters, we have looked forward 00:14:38.900 --> 00:14:42.700 align:middle line:84% to gathering with you again in this October general conference 00:14:42.700 --> 00:14:44.340 align:middle line:90% session of the Church. 00:14:44.340 --> 00:14:49.340 align:middle line:84% We extend our heartfelt welcome to each of you. 00:14:49.340 --> 00:14:53.050 align:middle line:84% We are deeply grateful for your sustaining prayers. 00:14:53.050 --> 00:14:55.760 align:middle line:90% We can feel their effect. 00:14:55.760 --> 00:14:58.610 align:middle line:90% Thank you! 00:14:58.610 --> 00:15:00.540 align:middle line:84% We are grateful for your tremendous efforts 00:15:00.540 --> 00:15:03.430 align:middle line:84% to follow through with counsel given at general conference six 00:15:03.430 --> 00:15:04.850 align:middle line:90% months ago. 00:15:04.850 --> 00:15:07.720 align:middle line:84% Stake presidencies throughout the world 00:15:07.720 --> 00:15:13.310 align:middle line:84% have sought revelation necessary to reorganize elders quorums. 00:15:13.310 --> 00:15:16.570 align:middle line:84% Men of those quorums, along with our dedicated Relief Society 00:15:16.570 --> 00:15:20.210 align:middle line:84% sisters, are working diligently to minister 00:15:20.210 --> 00:15:26.190 align:middle line:84% to our brothers and sisters in a higher, holier way. 00:15:26.190 --> 00:15:30.740 align:middle line:84% We are inspired by your goodness and extraordinary efforts 00:15:30.740 --> 00:15:34.830 align:middle line:84% to bring the Savior's love to your families, neighbors, 00:15:34.830 --> 00:15:38.610 align:middle line:84% and friends and to minister to them as He would. 00:15:38.610 --> 00:15:41.660 align:middle line:90% 00:15:41.660 --> 00:15:45.210 align:middle line:84% Since April conference, Sister Nelson and I 00:15:45.210 --> 00:15:48.230 align:middle line:84% have met with members on four continents 00:15:48.230 --> 00:15:50.740 align:middle line:90% and on islands of the sea. 00:15:50.740 --> 00:15:56.380 align:middle line:84% From Jerusalem to Harare, from Winnipeg to Bangkok, 00:15:56.380 --> 00:16:00.380 align:middle line:84% we have experienced your great faith and the strength 00:16:00.380 --> 00:16:02.910 align:middle line:90% of your testimonies. 00:16:02.910 --> 00:16:05.940 align:middle line:84% We are overjoyed with the number of our youth 00:16:05.940 --> 00:16:08.970 align:middle line:84% who have joined the Lord's youth battalion to help 00:16:08.970 --> 00:16:12.030 align:middle line:90% gather scattered Israel. 00:16:12.030 --> 00:16:14.480 align:middle line:90% We thank you! 00:16:14.480 --> 00:16:17.920 align:middle line:84% And as you continue to follow my invitations offered 00:16:17.920 --> 00:16:20.270 align:middle line:84% at our worldwide youth devotional, 00:16:20.270 --> 00:16:23.990 align:middle line:84% you are setting a standard for the rest of us to follow. 00:16:23.990 --> 00:16:27.565 align:middle line:84% And what a difference you youth are making! 00:16:27.565 --> 00:16:31.450 align:middle line:90% 00:16:31.450 --> 00:16:35.040 align:middle line:84% In recent years, we in the presiding councils 00:16:35.040 --> 00:16:39.990 align:middle line:84% of the Church have wrestled with a fundamental question: how 00:16:39.990 --> 00:16:43.780 align:middle line:84% can we take the gospel in its simple purity 00:16:43.780 --> 00:16:48.120 align:middle line:84% and the ordinances with their eternal efficacy 00:16:48.120 --> 00:16:52.970 align:middle line:90% to all of God's children? 00:16:52.970 --> 00:16:54.570 align:middle line:84% As Latter-day Saints, we have become 00:16:54.570 --> 00:16:56.750 align:middle line:84% accustomed to thinking of "church" 00:16:56.750 --> 00:17:00.090 align:middle line:84% as something that happens in our meetinghouses, 00:17:00.090 --> 00:17:03.920 align:middle line:84% supported by what happens at home. 00:17:03.920 --> 00:17:08.119 align:middle line:84% We need an adjustment to this pattern. 00:17:08.119 --> 00:17:14.869 align:middle line:84% It is time for a home-centered Church, supported 00:17:14.869 --> 00:17:18.500 align:middle line:84% by what takes place inside our branch, ward, and stake 00:17:18.500 --> 00:17:20.800 align:middle line:90% buildings. 00:17:20.800 --> 00:17:24.910 align:middle line:84% As the Church continues to expand throughout the world, 00:17:24.910 --> 00:17:30.480 align:middle line:84% many members live where we have no chapels--and may not 00:17:30.480 --> 00:17:34.700 align:middle line:90% for the foreseeable future. 00:17:34.700 --> 00:17:38.470 align:middle line:84% I remember a family who, because of such circumstances, 00:17:38.470 --> 00:17:41.300 align:middle line:84% was required to meet in their home. 00:17:41.300 --> 00:17:44.940 align:middle line:84% I asked the mother how she liked going 00:17:44.940 --> 00:17:47.050 align:middle line:90% to church in her own home. 00:17:47.050 --> 00:17:52.790 align:middle line:90% She replied, "I like it! 00:17:52.790 --> 00:17:55.460 align:middle line:84% My husband uses better language at home now, 00:17:55.460 --> 00:17:57.910 align:middle line:84% knowing that he will bless the sacrament each Sunday." 00:17:57.910 --> 00:18:03.770 align:middle line:90% 00:18:03.770 --> 00:18:06.840 align:middle line:84% The long-standing objective of the Church 00:18:06.840 --> 00:18:10.710 align:middle line:84% is to assist all members to increase their faith 00:18:10.710 --> 00:18:15.280 align:middle line:84% in our Lord Jesus Christ and in His Atonement, 00:18:15.280 --> 00:18:18.100 align:middle line:84% to assist them in making and keeping 00:18:18.100 --> 00:18:23.940 align:middle line:84% their covenants with God, and to strengthen and seal 00:18:23.940 --> 00:18:26.890 align:middle line:90% their families. 00:18:26.890 --> 00:18:30.390 align:middle line:84% In this complex world today, this is not easy. 00:18:30.390 --> 00:18:34.000 align:middle line:84% The adversary is increasing his attacks 00:18:34.000 --> 00:18:38.040 align:middle line:84% on faith and upon us and our families 00:18:38.040 --> 00:18:41.030 align:middle line:90% at an exponential rate. 00:18:41.030 --> 00:18:46.930 align:middle line:84% To survive spiritually, we need counterstrategies and proactive 00:18:46.930 --> 00:18:48.400 align:middle line:90% plans. 00:18:48.400 --> 00:18:51.250 align:middle line:84% Accordingly, we now want to put in place 00:18:51.250 --> 00:18:54.520 align:middle line:84% organizational adjustments that will further fortify 00:18:54.520 --> 00:18:56.440 align:middle line:90% our members and their families. 00:18:56.440 --> 00:18:59.160 align:middle line:90% 00:18:59.160 --> 00:19:01.060 align:middle line:84% For many years Church leaders have 00:19:01.060 --> 00:19:04.050 align:middle line:84% been working on an integrated curriculum 00:19:04.050 --> 00:19:06.690 align:middle line:84% to strengthen families and individuals 00:19:06.690 --> 00:19:11.820 align:middle line:84% through a home-centered and Church-supported plan 00:19:11.820 --> 00:19:17.120 align:middle line:84% to learn doctrine, strengthen faith, and foster greater 00:19:17.120 --> 00:19:18.030 align:middle line:90% personal worship. 00:19:18.030 --> 00:19:20.570 align:middle line:90% 00:19:20.570 --> 00:19:24.300 align:middle line:84% Our efforts over these recent years to hallow the Sabbath--to 00:19:24.300 --> 00:19:28.990 align:middle line:84% make it a delight and a personal sign to God of our love 00:19:28.990 --> 00:19:34.470 align:middle line:84% for Him--will be augmented by the adjustments we will now 00:19:34.470 --> 00:19:36.900 align:middle line:90% introduce. 00:19:36.900 --> 00:19:41.460 align:middle line:84% This morning we will announce a new balance and connection 00:19:41.460 --> 00:19:47.820 align:middle line:84% between gospel instruction in the home and in the Church. 00:19:47.820 --> 00:19:52.260 align:middle line:84% We are each responsible for our individual spiritual growth. 00:19:52.260 --> 00:19:56.270 align:middle line:84% And scriptures make it clear that parents 00:19:56.270 --> 00:19:59.010 align:middle line:84% have the primary responsibility to teach 00:19:59.010 --> 00:20:01.470 align:middle line:90% the doctrine to their children. 00:20:01.470 --> 00:20:04.320 align:middle line:84% It is the responsibility of the Church 00:20:04.320 --> 00:20:09.810 align:middle line:84% to assist each member in that divinely appointed role 00:20:09.810 --> 00:20:15.340 align:middle line:84% of increasing his or her gospel knowledge. 00:20:15.340 --> 00:20:17.630 align:middle line:84% Elder Quentin L. Cook will now explain 00:20:17.630 --> 00:20:19.650 align:middle line:90% these important adjustments. 00:20:19.650 --> 00:20:22.810 align:middle line:84% All members of the Council of the First Presidency 00:20:22.810 --> 00:20:24.660 align:middle line:84% and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 00:20:24.660 --> 00:20:28.850 align:middle line:84% are united in endorsing this message. 00:20:28.850 --> 00:20:31.740 align:middle line:84% We gratefully acknowledge the inspiration 00:20:31.740 --> 00:20:33.660 align:middle line:84% from the Lord that has influenced 00:20:33.660 --> 00:20:37.490 align:middle line:84% the development of the plans and procedures 00:20:37.490 --> 00:20:40.770 align:middle line:90% that Elder Cook will present. 00:20:40.770 --> 00:20:45.570 align:middle line:84% My dear brothers and sisters, I know that God lives! 00:20:45.570 --> 00:20:48.440 align:middle line:90% Jesus is the Christ! 00:20:48.440 --> 00:20:51.360 align:middle line:84% This is His Church that He directs 00:20:51.360 --> 00:20:55.200 align:middle line:84% by prophecy and revelation to His humble servants. 00:20:55.200 --> 00:20:58.870 align:middle line:84% I so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:20:58.870 --> 00:21:08.000 align:middle line:90% 00:21:08.000 --> 00:21:11.420 align:middle line:84% As President Russell M. Nelson has just beautifully 00:21:11.420 --> 00:21:14.910 align:middle line:84% and eloquently set forth, Church leaders 00:21:14.910 --> 00:21:17.320 align:middle line:84% have been working for a long time 00:21:17.320 --> 00:21:21.000 align:middle line:84% on "a home-centered and Church-supported plan 00:21:21.000 --> 00:21:24.890 align:middle line:84% to learn doctrine, strengthen faith, and foster 00:21:24.890 --> 00:21:27.030 align:middle line:90% greater personal worship." 00:21:27.030 --> 00:21:30.140 align:middle line:84% President Nelson then announced an adjustment 00:21:30.140 --> 00:21:34.750 align:middle line:84% to achieve "a new balance between gospel instruction 00:21:34.750 --> 00:21:37.890 align:middle line:90% in the home and in the Church." 00:21:37.890 --> 00:21:40.950 align:middle line:84% To accomplish these purposes--described 00:21:40.950 --> 00:21:43.710 align:middle line:84% by and under the direction of President Russell M. 00:21:43.710 --> 00:21:48.400 align:middle line:84% Nelson and pursuant to the decision of the Council 00:21:48.400 --> 00:21:51.390 align:middle line:84% of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve 00:21:51.390 --> 00:21:57.900 align:middle line:84% Apostles--the Sunday meeting schedule will be adjusted 00:21:57.900 --> 00:22:04.560 align:middle line:84% in the following ways, beginning in January 2019. 00:22:04.560 --> 00:22:07.200 align:middle line:84% The Sunday Church meetings will consist 00:22:07.200 --> 00:22:12.620 align:middle line:84% of a 60-minute sacrament meeting each Sunday focused 00:22:12.620 --> 00:22:15.640 align:middle line:84% on the Savior, the ordinance of the sacrament, 00:22:15.640 --> 00:22:17.990 align:middle line:90% and spiritual messages. 00:22:17.990 --> 00:22:22.110 align:middle line:84% After time for transition to classes, 00:22:22.110 --> 00:22:27.840 align:middle line:84% Church members will attend a 50-minute class that 00:22:27.840 --> 00:22:31.340 align:middle line:90% will alternate each Sunday. 00:22:31.340 --> 00:22:37.870 align:middle line:84% Sunday School will be held on the first and third Sundays. 00:22:37.870 --> 00:22:41.240 align:middle line:84% Priesthood quorums, Relief Society, 00:22:41.240 --> 00:22:44.730 align:middle line:84% and Young Women meetings will be held 00:22:44.730 --> 00:22:48.190 align:middle line:84% on the second and fourth Sundays. 00:22:48.190 --> 00:22:50.560 align:middle line:84% Meetings on the fifth Sunday will 00:22:50.560 --> 00:22:53.710 align:middle line:84% be under the direction of the bishop. 00:22:53.710 --> 00:22:58.760 align:middle line:84% Primary will be held each week during this same 50-minute 00:22:58.760 --> 00:23:04.060 align:middle line:84% period and will include singing time and classes. 00:23:04.060 --> 00:23:06.830 align:middle line:84% With respect to the Sunday meeting schedule, 00:23:06.830 --> 00:23:10.990 align:middle line:84% the senior leaders of the Church have been aware for many years 00:23:10.990 --> 00:23:15.970 align:middle line:84% that for some of our precious members, a three-hour Sunday 00:23:15.970 --> 00:23:19.150 align:middle line:84% schedule at church can be difficult. 00:23:19.150 --> 00:23:21.600 align:middle line:84% This is particularly true for parents 00:23:21.600 --> 00:23:25.270 align:middle line:84% with small children, Primary children, elderly members, 00:23:25.270 --> 00:23:27.820 align:middle line:90% new converts, and others. 00:23:27.820 --> 00:23:30.530 align:middle line:84% But there is so much more to this adjustment 00:23:30.530 --> 00:23:35.090 align:middle line:84% than just shortening the Sunday meetinghouse schedule. 00:23:35.090 --> 00:23:37.550 align:middle line:84% President Nelson has acknowledged 00:23:37.550 --> 00:23:40.530 align:middle line:84% with gratitude how much is being accomplished 00:23:40.530 --> 00:23:44.530 align:middle line:84% as a result of your faithfulness to previous invitations. 00:23:44.530 --> 00:23:47.730 align:middle line:84% He and the entire leadership of the Church 00:23:47.730 --> 00:23:52.760 align:middle line:84% desire to bring greater gospel joy to parents, children, 00:23:52.760 --> 00:23:58.470 align:middle line:84% youth, singles, the elderly, new converts, and those people 00:23:58.470 --> 00:24:01.060 align:middle line:84% the missionaries are teaching through 00:24:01.060 --> 00:24:03.910 align:middle line:84% a home-centered, Church-supported balanced 00:24:03.910 --> 00:24:05.190 align:middle line:90% effort. 00:24:05.190 --> 00:24:08.240 align:middle line:84% The purposes and blessings associated 00:24:08.240 --> 00:24:11.510 align:middle line:84% with this adjustment and other recent changes 00:24:11.510 --> 00:24:13.780 align:middle line:90% include the following: 00:24:13.780 --> 00:24:17.200 align:middle line:84% Deepening conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus 00:24:17.200 --> 00:24:20.570 align:middle line:84% Christ and strengthening faith in Them. 00:24:20.570 --> 00:24:23.130 align:middle line:84% Strengthening individuals and families 00:24:23.130 --> 00:24:27.180 align:middle line:84% through home-centered, Church-supported curriculum 00:24:27.180 --> 00:24:31.270 align:middle line:84% that contributes to joyful gospel living. 00:24:31.270 --> 00:24:34.210 align:middle line:84% Honoring the Sabbath day, with a focus on the ordinance 00:24:34.210 --> 00:24:36.030 align:middle line:90% of the sacrament. 00:24:36.030 --> 00:24:38.130 align:middle line:84% Helping all of Heavenly Father's children 00:24:38.130 --> 00:24:41.010 align:middle line:84% on both sides of the veil through missionary work 00:24:41.010 --> 00:24:44.450 align:middle line:84% and receiving ordinances and covenants and blessings 00:24:44.450 --> 00:24:46.500 align:middle line:90% of the temple. 00:24:46.500 --> 00:24:49.440 align:middle line:84% This Sunday schedule allows more time 00:24:49.440 --> 00:24:54.360 align:middle line:84% for a home evening and to study the gospel at home on Sunday 00:24:54.360 --> 00:24:59.350 align:middle line:84% or at other times as individuals and families may choose. 00:24:59.350 --> 00:25:01.760 align:middle line:84% A family activity night could be held 00:25:01.760 --> 00:25:05.390 align:middle line:90% on Monday or at other times. 00:25:05.390 --> 00:25:08.030 align:middle line:84% To this end, leaders should continue 00:25:08.030 --> 00:25:10.560 align:middle line:84% to keep Monday evenings free from Church meetings 00:25:10.560 --> 00:25:11.730 align:middle line:90% and activities. 00:25:11.730 --> 00:25:15.440 align:middle line:84% However, time spent in home evening, gospel study, 00:25:15.440 --> 00:25:18.560 align:middle line:84% and activities for individuals and families 00:25:18.560 --> 00:25:23.880 align:middle line:84% may be scheduled according to their individual circumstances. 00:25:23.880 --> 00:25:26.680 align:middle line:84% Family and individual gospel study at home 00:25:26.680 --> 00:25:31.640 align:middle line:84% will be significantly enhanced by a harmonized curriculum 00:25:31.640 --> 00:25:35.760 align:middle line:84% and a new Come, Follow Me resource for individuals 00:25:35.760 --> 00:25:39.720 align:middle line:84% and families that is coordinated with what is being taught 00:25:39.720 --> 00:25:42.020 align:middle line:90% in Sunday School and Primary. 00:25:42.020 --> 00:25:46.450 align:middle line:84% In January, the Church's youth and adult Sunday School 00:25:46.450 --> 00:25:51.010 align:middle line:84% and Primary classes will be studying the New Testament. 00:25:51.010 --> 00:25:56.000 align:middle line:84% The new home-study Come, Follow Me resource for individuals 00:25:56.000 --> 00:26:00.910 align:middle line:84% and families--also covering the New Testament--is designed 00:26:00.910 --> 00:26:03.970 align:middle line:84% to help members learn the gospel in the home. 00:26:03.970 --> 00:26:09.010 align:middle line:84% It explains: "This resource is for every individual and family 00:26:09.010 --> 00:26:10.140 align:middle line:90% in the Church. 00:26:10.140 --> 00:26:13.470 align:middle line:84% It is designed to help [us better] learn the gospel-- 00:26:13.470 --> 00:26:16.590 align:middle line:84% whether on [our] own or with [our] family. 00:26:16.590 --> 00:26:17.200 align:middle line:90% ... 00:26:17.200 --> 00:26:20.630 align:middle line:84% The outlines in this [new] resource are organized 00:26:20.630 --> 00:26:23.880 align:middle line:84% according to a weekly ... schedule." 00:26:23.880 --> 00:26:27.540 align:middle line:84% The new Primary Come, Follow Me lessons taught in church 00:26:27.540 --> 00:26:30.160 align:middle line:84% will follow the same weekly schedule. 00:26:30.160 --> 00:26:32.580 align:middle line:84% The adult and youth Sunday School classes 00:26:32.580 --> 00:26:34.890 align:middle line:84% on the first and third Sundays will 00:26:34.890 --> 00:26:38.870 align:middle line:84% be coordinated so that they will support the new Come, 00:26:38.870 --> 00:26:41.150 align:middle line:90% Follow Me home resource. 00:26:41.150 --> 00:26:43.030 align:middle line:84% On the second and fourth Sundays, 00:26:43.030 --> 00:26:45.200 align:middle line:84% adults in priesthood and Relief Society 00:26:45.200 --> 00:26:48.440 align:middle line:84% will continue to study the teachings of Church leaders, 00:26:48.440 --> 00:26:53.340 align:middle line:84% with emphasis on the current messages of modern prophets. 00:26:53.340 --> 00:26:55.850 align:middle line:84% Young women and Aaronic Priesthood young men 00:26:55.850 --> 00:26:59.260 align:middle line:84% will study gospel topics on those Sundays. 00:26:59.260 --> 00:27:02.240 align:middle line:84% The new home-study resource provides 00:27:02.240 --> 00:27:06.620 align:middle line:84% "Ideas for Family Scripture Study and Family Home Evening." 00:27:06.620 --> 00:27:10.510 align:middle line:84% The outlines for each week contain helpful study ideas 00:27:10.510 --> 00:27:13.740 align:middle line:84% and activities for individuals and families. 00:27:13.740 --> 00:27:17.370 align:middle line:84% The Come, Follow Me resource for individuals and families 00:27:17.370 --> 00:27:20.750 align:middle line:84% also has many illustrations that will 00:27:20.750 --> 00:27:24.760 align:middle line:84% help enhance individual and family learning, especially 00:27:24.760 --> 00:27:25.940 align:middle line:90% for children. 00:27:25.940 --> 00:27:30.000 align:middle line:84% This new resource will be provided to each household 00:27:30.000 --> 00:27:33.140 align:middle line:90% by December of this year. 00:27:33.140 --> 00:27:35.470 align:middle line:84% President Nelson, from his initial address 00:27:35.470 --> 00:27:38.150 align:middle line:84% to the members of the Church in January, 00:27:38.150 --> 00:27:40.830 align:middle line:84% has exhorted us to prepare for the Second 00:27:40.830 --> 00:27:45.110 align:middle line:84% Coming of Jesus Christ by walking the covenant path. 00:27:45.110 --> 00:27:47.820 align:middle line:84% World conditions increasingly require 00:27:47.820 --> 00:27:51.830 align:middle line:84% deepening individual conversion to and strengthening 00:27:51.830 --> 00:27:56.450 align:middle line:84% faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and His Atonement. 00:27:56.450 --> 00:27:59.550 align:middle line:84% The Lord has prepared us, line upon line, 00:27:59.550 --> 00:28:02.220 align:middle line:84% for the perilous times that we now face. 00:28:02.220 --> 00:28:04.680 align:middle line:84% In recent years, the Lord has guided 00:28:04.680 --> 00:28:09.880 align:middle line:84% us to address related core concerns, including: 00:28:09.880 --> 00:28:13.080 align:middle line:84% Honoring the Sabbath day and the sacred ordinance 00:28:13.080 --> 00:28:15.890 align:middle line:84% of the sacrament, which have again 00:28:15.890 --> 00:28:19.330 align:middle line:84% been emphasized for the last three years. 00:28:19.330 --> 00:28:22.790 align:middle line:84% Under the bishop's direction, strengthened elders quorums 00:28:22.790 --> 00:28:27.080 align:middle line:84% and Relief Societies are focused on the purpose of the Church 00:28:27.080 --> 00:28:31.610 align:middle line:84% and helping members make and keep sacred covenants. 00:28:31.610 --> 00:28:34.040 align:middle line:84% Ministering in a higher and holier way 00:28:34.040 --> 00:28:37.430 align:middle line:90% is being joyfully adopted. 00:28:37.430 --> 00:28:40.350 align:middle line:84% Beginning with the end in mind, temple covenants 00:28:40.350 --> 00:28:44.480 align:middle line:84% and family history service are becoming a purposeful part 00:28:44.480 --> 00:28:47.030 align:middle line:90% of the covenant path. 00:28:47.030 --> 00:28:50.700 align:middle line:84% The adjustment announced this morning is yet 00:28:50.700 --> 00:28:55.380 align:middle line:84% another example of guidance for the challenges of our day. 00:28:55.380 --> 00:28:57.010 align:middle line:84% The Church's traditional curriculum 00:28:57.010 --> 00:28:59.920 align:middle line:84% has emphasized the Sunday church experience. 00:28:59.920 --> 00:29:03.250 align:middle line:84% We know that when we have better teaching and more spiritually 00:29:03.250 --> 00:29:07.150 align:middle line:84% prepared class members, we have a better Sunday church 00:29:07.150 --> 00:29:08.220 align:middle line:90% experience. 00:29:08.220 --> 00:29:10.580 align:middle line:84% We are blessed that often the Spirit 00:29:10.580 --> 00:29:13.810 align:middle line:84% increases and strengthens conversion in the church 00:29:13.810 --> 00:29:15.510 align:middle line:90% setting. 00:29:15.510 --> 00:29:19.310 align:middle line:84% The new home-centered and Church-supported curriculum 00:29:19.310 --> 00:29:22.240 align:middle line:84% needs to influence more powerfully 00:29:22.240 --> 00:29:25.260 align:middle line:84% family religious observance and behavior 00:29:25.260 --> 00:29:29.120 align:middle line:84% and personal religious observance and behavior. 00:29:29.120 --> 00:29:33.450 align:middle line:84% We know the spiritual impact and the deep and lasting conversion 00:29:33.450 --> 00:29:36.180 align:middle line:84% that can be achieved in the home setting. 00:29:36.180 --> 00:29:40.120 align:middle line:84% Years ago, a study established that for young men and women, 00:29:40.120 --> 00:29:43.150 align:middle line:84% the influence of the Holy Ghost most often 00:29:43.150 --> 00:29:48.130 align:middle line:84% accompanies individual scripture study and prayer in the home. 00:29:48.130 --> 00:29:53.430 align:middle line:84% Our purpose is to balance the Church and the home experience 00:29:53.430 --> 00:29:57.840 align:middle line:84% in a way that will greatly increase faith, spirituality, 00:29:57.840 --> 00:30:01.670 align:middle line:84% and deepen conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord 00:30:01.670 --> 00:30:03.810 align:middle line:90% Jesus Christ. 00:30:03.810 --> 00:30:06.270 align:middle line:84% In the home-centered, Church-supported portion 00:30:06.270 --> 00:30:10.400 align:middle line:84% of this adjustment, there is flexibility for each individual 00:30:10.400 --> 00:30:13.700 align:middle line:84% and family to determine prayerfully how and when it 00:30:13.700 --> 00:30:15.030 align:middle line:90% will be implemented. 00:30:15.030 --> 00:30:18.730 align:middle line:84% For example, while this will greatly bless all families, 00:30:18.730 --> 00:30:22.090 align:middle line:84% based on local needs, it would be completely 00:30:22.090 --> 00:30:26.370 align:middle line:84% appropriate for young singles, single adults, single parents, 00:30:26.370 --> 00:30:29.590 align:middle line:84% part-member families, new members, and others 00:30:29.590 --> 00:30:34.700 align:middle line:84% to gather in groups outside the normal Sunday worship services 00:30:34.700 --> 00:30:38.560 align:middle line:84% to enjoy gospel sociality and be strengthened 00:30:38.560 --> 00:30:42.300 align:middle line:84% by studying together the home-centered, Church-supported 00:30:42.300 --> 00:30:43.420 align:middle line:90% resource. 00:30:43.420 --> 00:30:46.380 align:middle line:84% This would be accomplished informally 00:30:46.380 --> 00:30:49.680 align:middle line:90% by those who so desire. 00:30:49.680 --> 00:30:51.270 align:middle line:84% In many parts of the world, people 00:30:51.270 --> 00:30:52.990 align:middle line:84% choose to stay at the meetinghouse 00:30:52.990 --> 00:30:57.460 align:middle line:84% after the normal Sunday schedule to enjoy social relationships. 00:30:57.460 --> 00:31:01.680 align:middle line:84% There is nothing in this announced adjustment that 00:31:01.680 --> 00:31:04.260 align:middle line:84% would interfere with this wonderful and rewarding 00:31:04.260 --> 00:31:06.710 align:middle line:90% practice in any way. 00:31:06.710 --> 00:31:09.030 align:middle line:84% To help members prepare for the Sabbath, 00:31:09.030 --> 00:31:13.010 align:middle line:84% some wards already send an informative email, text, 00:31:13.010 --> 00:31:15.880 align:middle line:90% or social media message midweek. 00:31:15.880 --> 00:31:18.840 align:middle line:84% In view of this adjustment, we strongly 00:31:18.840 --> 00:31:21.260 align:middle line:84% recommend this type of communication. 00:31:21.260 --> 00:31:24.610 align:middle line:84% These invitations will remind the members of the Sunday 00:31:24.610 --> 00:31:28.440 align:middle line:84% meeting schedule for that week, including the upcoming class 00:31:28.440 --> 00:31:32.840 align:middle line:84% lesson topic, and support continuing gospel conversation 00:31:32.840 --> 00:31:33.810 align:middle line:90% at home. 00:31:33.810 --> 00:31:36.490 align:middle line:84% In addition, the adult meetings on Sunday 00:31:36.490 --> 00:31:40.840 align:middle line:84% will also provide information to connect church and home 00:31:40.840 --> 00:31:43.020 align:middle line:90% study each week. 00:31:43.020 --> 00:31:45.400 align:middle line:84% The sacrament meeting and the class period 00:31:45.400 --> 00:31:47.890 align:middle line:84% will require prayerful consideration 00:31:47.890 --> 00:31:52.370 align:middle line:84% to make sure that spiritual priorities are emphasized 00:31:52.370 --> 00:31:54.700 align:middle line:90% over administrative functions. 00:31:54.700 --> 00:31:58.840 align:middle line:84% For example, announcements can for the most part 00:31:58.840 --> 00:32:01.530 align:middle line:84% be accomplished in the midweek invitation 00:32:01.530 --> 00:32:03.890 align:middle line:90% or on a printed program. 00:32:03.890 --> 00:32:05.830 align:middle line:84% While the sacrament meeting should 00:32:05.830 --> 00:32:08.230 align:middle line:84% have an opening and closing prayer, 00:32:08.230 --> 00:32:13.130 align:middle line:84% the second meeting need only have a closing prayer. 00:32:13.130 --> 00:32:15.520 align:middle line:84% As was mentioned earlier, the new Sunday schedule 00:32:15.520 --> 00:32:19.260 align:middle line:84% will not commence until January 2019. 00:32:19.260 --> 00:32:21.610 align:middle line:84% There are several reasons for this. 00:32:21.610 --> 00:32:24.680 align:middle line:84% The two most important are, first, 00:32:24.680 --> 00:32:26.810 align:middle line:84% to have time to distribute the Come, 00:32:26.810 --> 00:32:30.230 align:middle line:84% Follow Me resource for individuals and families 00:32:30.230 --> 00:32:34.440 align:middle line:84% and, second, to allow time for stake presidents and bishops 00:32:34.440 --> 00:32:38.590 align:middle line:84% to arrange meeting schedules with the goal of having more 00:32:38.590 --> 00:32:41.760 align:middle line:90% wards meet earlier in the day. 00:32:41.760 --> 00:32:43.920 align:middle line:84% As leaders have sought revelation, 00:32:43.920 --> 00:32:48.570 align:middle line:84% the guidance received over the past few years is to strengthen 00:32:48.570 --> 00:32:51.620 align:middle line:84% the sacrament meeting, honor the Sabbath day, 00:32:51.620 --> 00:32:56.040 align:middle line:84% and encourage and assist parents and individuals to make 00:32:56.040 --> 00:32:59.660 align:middle line:84% their homes a source of spiritual strength 00:32:59.660 --> 00:33:04.460 align:middle line:84% and increased faith--a place of joy and happiness. 00:33:04.460 --> 00:33:06.480 align:middle line:84% What do these adjustments mean for members 00:33:06.480 --> 00:33:09.480 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? 00:33:09.480 --> 00:33:12.040 align:middle line:84% We are confident that members will be 00:33:12.040 --> 00:33:14.500 align:middle line:90% blessed in extraordinary ways. 00:33:14.500 --> 00:33:17.920 align:middle line:84% Sunday can be a day of gospel learning and teaching 00:33:17.920 --> 00:33:20.210 align:middle line:90% at church and in the home. 00:33:20.210 --> 00:33:22.750 align:middle line:84% As individuals and families engage 00:33:22.750 --> 00:33:26.400 align:middle line:84% in family councils, family history, ministering, service, 00:33:26.400 --> 00:33:30.090 align:middle line:84% personal worship, and joyful family time, 00:33:30.090 --> 00:33:34.460 align:middle line:84% the Sabbath day will truly be a delight. 00:33:34.460 --> 00:33:36.460 align:middle line:84% One family from Brazil are members 00:33:36.460 --> 00:33:39.410 align:middle line:84% of a stake where the new home Come, Follow Me 00:33:39.410 --> 00:33:40.970 align:middle line:90% resource was tested. 00:33:40.970 --> 00:33:45.490 align:middle line:84% The father, Fernando, a returned missionary who with his wife, 00:33:45.490 --> 00:33:50.180 align:middle line:84% Nancy, are the parents of four young children, reported: 00:33:50.180 --> 00:33:52.910 align:middle line:84% "When the Come, Follow Me program was introduced 00:33:52.910 --> 00:33:56.520 align:middle line:84% in our stake, I was so excited, and I thought, 00:33:56.520 --> 00:33:59.460 align:middle line:84% 'The way that we study the scriptures at home is going 00:33:59.460 --> 00:34:00.510 align:middle line:90% to change.' 00:34:00.510 --> 00:34:05.300 align:middle line:84% It really happened in my home, and as a Church leader 00:34:05.300 --> 00:34:07.280 align:middle line:84% I saw that it happened in other homes. 00:34:07.280 --> 00:34:07.780 align:middle line:90% ... 00:34:07.780 --> 00:34:11.300 align:middle line:84% It helped us to really discuss the scriptures in our home. 00:34:11.300 --> 00:34:15.020 align:middle line:84% My wife and I had a deeper understanding about the topic 00:34:15.020 --> 00:34:15.850 align:middle line:90% studied. ... 00:34:15.850 --> 00:34:19.040 align:middle line:84% It helped us ... amplify our gospel knowledge, 00:34:19.040 --> 00:34:21.320 align:middle line:84% and enhance our faith and testimony. 00:34:21.320 --> 00:34:21.820 align:middle line:90% ... 00:34:21.820 --> 00:34:24.909 align:middle line:84% I bear my testimony ... that I know it was inspired 00:34:24.909 --> 00:34:29.110 align:middle line:84% by the Lord so that the consistent and effective study 00:34:29.110 --> 00:34:33.469 align:middle line:84% of the principles and doctrines contained in the scriptures 00:34:33.469 --> 00:34:38.949 align:middle line:84% brings more faith, testimony, and light to the families ... 00:34:38.949 --> 00:34:43.540 align:middle line:84% in an increasingly fallen world." 00:34:43.540 --> 00:34:45.730 align:middle line:84% In pilot test stakes across the world 00:34:45.730 --> 00:34:49.280 align:middle line:84% there was a highly favorable response to the new Come, 00:34:49.280 --> 00:34:51.080 align:middle line:90% Follow Me home resource. 00:34:51.080 --> 00:34:53.870 align:middle line:84% Many reported that they progressed 00:34:53.870 --> 00:34:56.620 align:middle line:84% from reading scriptures to actually studying 00:34:56.620 --> 00:34:57.770 align:middle line:90% the scriptures. 00:34:57.770 --> 00:35:00.560 align:middle line:84% It was also commonly felt the experience 00:35:00.560 --> 00:35:05.640 align:middle line:84% was faith-promoting and had a wonderful impact on the ward. 00:35:05.640 --> 00:35:07.690 align:middle line:84% The goal of these adjustments is to obtain 00:35:07.690 --> 00:35:11.800 align:middle line:84% a deep and lasting conversion of adults and the rising 00:35:11.800 --> 00:35:12.890 align:middle line:90% generation. 00:35:12.890 --> 00:35:17.070 align:middle line:84% The first page of the individual and family resource 00:35:17.070 --> 00:35:21.080 align:middle line:84% points out: "The aim of all gospel learning and teaching 00:35:21.080 --> 00:35:24.390 align:middle line:84% is to deepen our conversion and help us become more 00:35:24.390 --> 00:35:25.550 align:middle line:90% like Jesus Christ. 00:35:25.550 --> 00:35:26.050 align:middle line:90% ... 00:35:26.050 --> 00:35:31.050 align:middle line:84% This means relying on Christ to change our hearts." 00:35:31.050 --> 00:35:35.710 align:middle line:84% This is assisted by reaching "beyond a classroom 00:35:35.710 --> 00:35:39.270 align:middle line:84% into an individual's heart and home. 00:35:39.270 --> 00:35:43.310 align:middle line:84% It requires consistent, daily efforts to understand and live 00:35:43.310 --> 00:35:44.500 align:middle line:90% the gospel. 00:35:44.500 --> 00:35:49.760 align:middle line:84% True conversion requires the influence of the Holy Ghost." 00:35:49.760 --> 00:35:52.550 align:middle line:84% The most important goal and ultimate blessing 00:35:52.550 --> 00:35:55.870 align:middle line:84% of deep and lasting conversion is worthily 00:35:55.870 --> 00:35:58.370 align:middle line:84% receiving the covenants and ordinances 00:35:58.370 --> 00:36:00.490 align:middle line:90% of the covenant pathway. 00:36:00.490 --> 00:36:04.800 align:middle line:84% We trust you to counsel together and to seek revelation 00:36:04.800 --> 00:36:08.270 align:middle line:84% for implementing these adjustments--while not looking 00:36:08.270 --> 00:36:12.220 align:middle line:84% beyond the mark or trying to regiment individuals 00:36:12.220 --> 00:36:13.430 align:middle line:90% or families. 00:36:13.430 --> 00:36:15.750 align:middle line:84% Additional information will be shared 00:36:15.750 --> 00:36:19.790 align:middle line:84% in upcoming communications, including a First Presidency 00:36:19.790 --> 00:36:22.730 align:middle line:90% letter and enclosure. 00:36:22.730 --> 00:36:26.840 align:middle line:84% I testify to you that in the deliberations 00:36:26.840 --> 00:36:28.860 align:middle line:84% of the Council of the First Presidency 00:36:28.860 --> 00:36:32.090 align:middle line:84% and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the temple, 00:36:32.090 --> 00:36:34.910 align:middle line:84% and after our beloved prophet petitioned 00:36:34.910 --> 00:36:39.390 align:middle line:84% the Lord for revelation to move forward with these adjustments, 00:36:39.390 --> 00:36:43.860 align:middle line:84% a powerful confirmation was received by all. 00:36:43.860 --> 00:36:47.680 align:middle line:84% Russell M. Nelson is our living President and prophet. 00:36:47.680 --> 00:36:49.740 align:middle line:84% The announcements made today will 00:36:49.740 --> 00:36:53.780 align:middle line:84% result in profound blessings for those who enthusiastically 00:36:53.780 --> 00:36:58.680 align:middle line:84% embrace the adjustments and seek the guidance of the Holy Ghost. 00:36:58.680 --> 00:37:01.980 align:middle line:84% We will become closer to our Heavenly Father and our Lord 00:37:01.980 --> 00:37:06.530 align:middle line:84% and Savior Jesus Christ, of whom I am a sure witness. 00:37:06.530 --> 00:37:08.790 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:37:08.790 --> 00:37:18.550 align:middle line:90% 00:37:18.550 --> 00:37:22.090 align:middle line:84% In 1981 my father, two close friends, and I 00:37:22.090 --> 00:37:24.110 align:middle line:90% went on an adventure in Alaska. 00:37:24.110 --> 00:37:26.600 align:middle line:84% We were to land on a remote lake and climb 00:37:26.600 --> 00:37:28.410 align:middle line:90% to some beautiful high country. 00:37:28.410 --> 00:37:32.450 align:middle line:84% In order to reduce the load we would have to personally carry, 00:37:32.450 --> 00:37:36.170 align:middle line:84% we wrapped our supplies in boxes, covered them with foam, 00:37:36.170 --> 00:37:38.930 align:middle line:84% attached large colored streamers, 00:37:38.930 --> 00:37:41.290 align:middle line:84% and threw them out the window of our bush plane 00:37:41.290 --> 00:37:43.980 align:middle line:90% at our intended destination. 00:37:43.980 --> 00:37:47.890 align:middle line:84% After arriving, we searched and searched, but to our dismay, 00:37:47.890 --> 00:37:50.100 align:middle line:84% we could not find any of the boxes. 00:37:50.100 --> 00:37:52.010 align:middle line:90% Eventually we found one. 00:37:52.010 --> 00:37:56.920 align:middle line:84% It contained a small gas stove, a tarp, some candy, 00:37:56.920 --> 00:37:59.890 align:middle line:84% and a couple packages of Hamburger Helper--but no 00:37:59.890 --> 00:38:00.880 align:middle line:90% hamburger. 00:38:00.880 --> 00:38:04.140 align:middle line:84% We had no way to communicate with the outside world, 00:38:04.140 --> 00:38:07.530 align:middle line:84% and our scheduled pickup was a week later. 00:38:07.530 --> 00:38:10.050 align:middle line:84% I learned two valuable lessons from this experience: 00:38:10.050 --> 00:38:12.690 align:middle line:84% One, do not throw your food out the window. 00:38:12.690 --> 00:38:15.330 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:38:15.330 --> 00:38:18.590 align:middle line:84% Two, sometimes we have to face hard things. 00:38:18.590 --> 00:38:22.260 align:middle line:84% Frequently our first reaction to hard things is "Why me?" 00:38:22.260 --> 00:38:25.870 align:middle line:84% Asking why, however, never takes away the hard thing. 00:38:25.870 --> 00:38:29.030 align:middle line:84% The Lord requires that we overcome challenges, 00:38:29.030 --> 00:38:31.590 align:middle line:84% and He has indicated "that all these things shall 00:38:31.590 --> 00:38:35.290 align:middle line:84% give [us] experience, and shall be for [our] good." 00:38:35.290 --> 00:38:38.250 align:middle line:84% Sometimes the Lord asks us to do a hard thing, 00:38:38.250 --> 00:38:40.560 align:middle line:84% and sometimes our challenges are created 00:38:40.560 --> 00:38:43.490 align:middle line:84% by our own or others' use of agency. 00:38:43.490 --> 00:38:46.510 align:middle line:84% Nephi experienced both of these situations. 00:38:46.510 --> 00:38:49.200 align:middle line:84% When Lehi invited his sons to return 00:38:49.200 --> 00:38:53.440 align:middle line:84% to get the plates from Laban, he said, "Behold thy brothers 00:38:53.440 --> 00:38:56.380 align:middle line:84% murmur, saying it is a hard thing which I have required 00:38:56.380 --> 00:38:59.640 align:middle line:84% of them; but behold I have not required it of them, 00:38:59.640 --> 00:39:01.870 align:middle line:84% but it is a commandment of the Lord." 00:39:01.870 --> 00:39:04.510 align:middle line:84% On another occasion, Nephi's brothers 00:39:04.510 --> 00:39:08.260 align:middle line:84% used their agency to limit his: "They did lay their hands 00:39:08.260 --> 00:39:11.860 align:middle line:84% upon me, for behold, they were exceedingly wroth, 00:39:11.860 --> 00:39:14.600 align:middle line:84% and they did bind me with cords, for they 00:39:14.600 --> 00:39:16.880 align:middle line:90% sought to take away my life." 00:39:16.880 --> 00:39:19.640 align:middle line:84% Joseph Smith confronted a hard thing in Liberty Jail. 00:39:19.640 --> 00:39:22.310 align:middle line:84% With no relief in sight and in despair, 00:39:22.310 --> 00:39:25.910 align:middle line:84% Joseph cried out, "O God, where art thou?" 00:39:25.910 --> 00:39:29.930 align:middle line:84% No doubt some of us have felt as Joseph did. 00:39:29.930 --> 00:39:34.480 align:middle line:84% Everyone faces hard things: the death of a loved one, divorce, 00:39:34.480 --> 00:39:38.190 align:middle line:84% a wayward child, illness, trials of faith, 00:39:38.190 --> 00:39:41.580 align:middle line:84% a lost job, or any other difficulty. 00:39:41.580 --> 00:39:44.150 align:middle line:84% I was forever changed upon hearing these words 00:39:44.150 --> 00:39:46.770 align:middle line:84% from Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve, 00:39:46.770 --> 00:39:50.770 align:middle line:84% spoken in the midst of his struggle with leukemia. 00:39:50.770 --> 00:39:55.530 align:middle line:84% He said, "I was doing some pensive pondering and these 13 00:39:55.530 --> 00:39:58.470 align:middle line:84% instructive and reassuring words came into my mind: 00:39:58.470 --> 00:40:02.350 align:middle line:84% 'I have given you leukemia that you might teach my people with 00:40:02.350 --> 00:40:06.060 align:middle line:84% authenticity.'" He then went on to express how this experience 00:40:06.060 --> 00:40:09.110 align:middle line:84% had blessed him with "perspective about the great 00:40:09.110 --> 00:40:10.351 align:middle line:90% realities of eternity. 00:40:10.351 --> 00:40:10.850 align:middle line:90% ... 00:40:10.850 --> 00:40:13.330 align:middle line:84% Such glimpses of eternity can help 00:40:13.330 --> 00:40:17.970 align:middle line:84% us to travel the next 100 yards, which may be very difficult." 00:40:17.970 --> 00:40:20.950 align:middle line:84% To help us travel and triumph over our hard times 00:40:20.950 --> 00:40:24.760 align:middle line:84% with such glimpses of eternity, may I suggest two things. 00:40:24.760 --> 00:40:28.070 align:middle line:84% We must face hard things, first, by forgiving 00:40:28.070 --> 00:40:33.500 align:middle line:84% others, and second, by giving ourselves to Heavenly Father. 00:40:33.500 --> 00:40:36.410 align:middle line:84% Forgiving those who may have caused our hard thing 00:40:36.410 --> 00:40:38.740 align:middle line:84% and reconciling "[our]selves to the will of God" 00:40:38.740 --> 00:40:42.740 align:middle line:84% can be very difficult. It can hurt most when our hard thing 00:40:42.740 --> 00:40:45.890 align:middle line:84% is caused by a family member, a close friend, 00:40:45.890 --> 00:40:47.850 align:middle line:90% or even ourselves. 00:40:47.850 --> 00:40:49.930 align:middle line:84% As a young bishop, I learned of forgiveness 00:40:49.930 --> 00:40:52.660 align:middle line:84% when my stake president, Bruce M. Cook, 00:40:52.660 --> 00:40:54.380 align:middle line:90% shared the following story. 00:40:54.380 --> 00:40:56.100 align:middle line:90% He explained: 00:40:56.100 --> 00:40:58.810 align:middle line:84% "During the late 1970s, some associates and I 00:40:58.810 --> 00:41:00.090 align:middle line:90% started a business. 00:41:00.090 --> 00:41:03.072 align:middle line:84% Although we did nothing illegal, some poor decisions, 00:41:03.072 --> 00:41:03.780 align:middle line:90% combined with ... 00:41:03.780 --> 00:41:07.490 align:middle line:84% challenging economic times, resulted in our failure. 00:41:07.490 --> 00:41:10.680 align:middle line:84% "Some investors filed a lawsuit to recover their losses. 00:41:10.680 --> 00:41:13.950 align:middle line:84% Their attorney happened to be a counselor in my family's 00:41:13.950 --> 00:41:14.850 align:middle line:90% bishopric. 00:41:14.850 --> 00:41:17.570 align:middle line:84% It was very difficult to sustain the man who seemed 00:41:17.570 --> 00:41:19.720 align:middle line:90% to be seeking to destroy me. 00:41:19.720 --> 00:41:22.390 align:middle line:84% I developed some real animosity toward him 00:41:22.390 --> 00:41:24.130 align:middle line:90% and considered him my enemy. 00:41:24.130 --> 00:41:26.530 align:middle line:84% After five years of legal battles, 00:41:26.530 --> 00:41:30.620 align:middle line:84% we lost everything we owned, including our home. 00:41:30.620 --> 00:41:33.560 align:middle line:84% "In 2002, my wife and I learned that the stake presidency 00:41:33.560 --> 00:41:36.280 align:middle line:84% in which I served as a counselor was being reorganized. 00:41:36.280 --> 00:41:39.550 align:middle line:84% As we traveled on a short vacation prior to the release, 00:41:39.550 --> 00:41:43.160 align:middle line:84% she asked me whom I would choose as my counselors 00:41:43.160 --> 00:41:45.320 align:middle line:84% if I were called as the new stake president. 00:41:45.320 --> 00:41:49.140 align:middle line:84% I did not want to speak about it, but she persisted. 00:41:49.140 --> 00:41:50.950 align:middle line:90% Eventually, one name came to ... 00:41:50.950 --> 00:41:51.450 align:middle line:90% mind. 00:41:51.450 --> 00:41:53.830 align:middle line:84% She then mentioned the name of the attorney 00:41:53.830 --> 00:41:56.810 align:middle line:84% we considered to have been at the center of our difficulties 00:41:56.810 --> 00:41:58.100 align:middle line:90% 20 years earlier. 00:41:58.100 --> 00:42:00.300 align:middle line:84% As she spoke, the Spirit confirmed that he 00:42:00.300 --> 00:42:01.980 align:middle line:90% should be the other counselor. 00:42:01.980 --> 00:42:04.270 align:middle line:90% Could I forgive the man? 00:42:04.270 --> 00:42:07.220 align:middle line:84% "When Elder David E. Sorensen extended to me the call 00:42:07.220 --> 00:42:08.880 align:middle line:84% to serve as [the] stake president, 00:42:08.880 --> 00:42:11.240 align:middle line:84% he gave me an hour to select counselors. 00:42:11.240 --> 00:42:12.940 align:middle line:90% Through tears, I indicated ... 00:42:12.940 --> 00:42:15.140 align:middle line:84% the Lord had already provided that revelation. 00:42:15.140 --> 00:42:18.520 align:middle line:84% As I spoke the name of the man I had considered my enemy, 00:42:18.520 --> 00:42:22.510 align:middle line:84% the anger, animosity, and hate I had harbored disappeared. 00:42:22.510 --> 00:42:24.329 align:middle line:84% In that moment, I learned of the peace 00:42:24.329 --> 00:42:26.370 align:middle line:84% that comes with forgiveness through the Atonement 00:42:26.370 --> 00:42:27.810 align:middle line:90% of Christ." 00:42:27.810 --> 00:42:29.300 align:middle line:84% In other words, my stake president 00:42:29.300 --> 00:42:31.910 align:middle line:84% did "frankly forgive" him, like Nephi of old. 00:42:31.910 --> 00:42:35.690 align:middle line:84% I knew President Cook and his counselor 00:42:35.690 --> 00:42:39.300 align:middle line:84% as two righteous priesthood leaders who loved one another. 00:42:39.300 --> 00:42:41.970 align:middle line:90% I determined to be like them. 00:42:41.970 --> 00:42:44.430 align:middle line:84% Years before, during our misadventure in Alaska, 00:42:44.430 --> 00:42:47.310 align:middle line:84% I had quickly learned that blaming our circumstances 00:42:47.310 --> 00:42:50.350 align:middle line:84% on others--the pilot launching the food out in fading 00:42:50.350 --> 00:42:52.390 align:middle line:90% light--was not a solution. 00:42:52.390 --> 00:42:56.180 align:middle line:84% However, we experienced physical exhaustion and lack 00:42:56.180 --> 00:42:58.670 align:middle line:84% of food, sickness, and sleeping on the ground 00:42:58.670 --> 00:43:01.360 align:middle line:84% during a major storm with only a tarp to cover us. 00:43:01.360 --> 00:43:06.020 align:middle line:84% I learned that "with God nothing shall be impossible." 00:43:06.020 --> 00:43:08.800 align:middle line:84% Young people, God requires hard things of you. 00:43:08.800 --> 00:43:11.490 align:middle line:84% One 14-year-old young woman participated 00:43:11.490 --> 00:43:12.940 align:middle line:90% in competitive basketball. 00:43:12.940 --> 00:43:15.120 align:middle line:84% She dreamed of playing high school basketball 00:43:15.120 --> 00:43:16.430 align:middle line:90% like her older sister. 00:43:16.430 --> 00:43:18.070 align:middle line:84% She then learned that her parents 00:43:18.070 --> 00:43:21.240 align:middle line:84% had been called to preside over a mission in Guatemala. 00:43:21.240 --> 00:43:24.250 align:middle line:84% Upon arrival, she discovered that a couple of her classes 00:43:24.250 --> 00:43:27.720 align:middle line:84% would be in Spanish, a language she did not yet speak. 00:43:27.720 --> 00:43:31.100 align:middle line:84% There was not a single girls' sports team at her school. 00:43:31.100 --> 00:43:34.590 align:middle line:84% She lived on the 14th floor of a building with tight security. 00:43:34.590 --> 00:43:37.840 align:middle line:84% And to top it all off, she could not go outside alone 00:43:37.840 --> 00:43:39.620 align:middle line:90% for safety reasons. 00:43:39.620 --> 00:43:42.260 align:middle line:84% Her parents listened to her cry herself to sleep 00:43:42.260 --> 00:43:43.900 align:middle line:90% every night for months. 00:43:43.900 --> 00:43:45.560 align:middle line:90% This broke their hearts! 00:43:45.560 --> 00:43:47.650 align:middle line:84% They finally decided they would send her home 00:43:47.650 --> 00:43:50.510 align:middle line:84% to her grandmother for high school. 00:43:50.510 --> 00:43:52.570 align:middle line:84% When my mother entered our daughter's room 00:43:52.570 --> 00:43:56.170 align:middle line:84% to tell her our decision, she saw our daughter kneeling 00:43:56.170 --> 00:43:58.640 align:middle line:84% in prayer with the Book of Mormon open on the bed. 00:43:58.640 --> 00:44:01.860 align:middle line:84% The Spirit whispered to my wife, "She will be OK," 00:44:01.860 --> 00:44:04.880 align:middle line:84% and my wife quietly left the room. 00:44:04.880 --> 00:44:07.050 align:middle line:84% We never heard her cry herself to sleep again. 00:44:07.050 --> 00:44:08.780 align:middle line:84% With determination and the Lord's help, 00:44:08.780 --> 00:44:11.300 align:middle line:84% she faced those three years valiantly. 00:44:11.300 --> 00:44:12.830 align:middle line:84% At the conclusion of our mission, 00:44:12.830 --> 00:44:14.460 align:middle line:84% I asked my daughter if she was going 00:44:14.460 --> 00:44:16.010 align:middle line:90% to serve a full-time mission. 00:44:16.010 --> 00:44:20.370 align:middle line:84% Her answer was "No, Dad, I have already served." 00:44:20.370 --> 00:44:21.620 align:middle line:90% I was just fine with that! 00:44:21.620 --> 00:44:24.150 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:44:24.150 --> 00:44:27.340 align:middle line:84% But about six months later, the Spirit awoke me in the night 00:44:27.340 --> 00:44:30.380 align:middle line:84% with this thought: "I have called your daughter 00:44:30.380 --> 00:44:32.100 align:middle line:90% to serve a mission." 00:44:32.100 --> 00:44:35.580 align:middle line:84% My reaction was "Heavenly Father, she has given so much." 00:44:35.580 --> 00:44:38.470 align:middle line:84% I was quickly corrected by the Spirit 00:44:38.470 --> 00:44:41.220 align:middle line:84% and came to understand that her missionary service was 00:44:41.220 --> 00:44:43.310 align:middle line:90% required of the Lord. 00:44:43.310 --> 00:44:45.040 align:middle line:84% I soon took my daughter to lunch. 00:44:45.040 --> 00:44:47.520 align:middle line:84% From across the table, I said, "Ganzie, 00:44:47.520 --> 00:44:50.200 align:middle line:90% do you know why we are here?" 00:44:50.200 --> 00:44:51.880 align:middle line:90% She said, "Yes, Dad. 00:44:51.880 --> 00:44:54.030 align:middle line:84% You know I have to serve a mission. 00:44:54.030 --> 00:44:57.130 align:middle line:84% I do not want to go, but I am going." 00:44:57.130 --> 00:44:59.120 align:middle line:84% Because she gave her will to Heavenly Father, 00:44:59.120 --> 00:45:01.270 align:middle line:84% she served Him with all her heart, might, mind, 00:45:01.270 --> 00:45:02.340 align:middle line:90% and strength. 00:45:02.340 --> 00:45:06.190 align:middle line:84% She has taught her father how to do hard thing. 00:45:06.190 --> 00:45:10.090 align:middle line:84% In President Russell M. Nelson's worldwide devotional for youth, 00:45:10.090 --> 00:45:13.540 align:middle line:84% he requested some hard things of the youth. 00:45:13.540 --> 00:45:16.050 align:middle line:84% President Nelson said: "My fifth invitation 00:45:16.050 --> 00:45:19.100 align:middle line:84% is for you to stand out; be different from the world. 00:45:19.100 --> 00:45:19.600 align:middle line:90% ... 00:45:19.600 --> 00:45:23.860 align:middle line:84% The Lord needs you to look like, sound like, act like, 00:45:23.860 --> 00:45:26.840 align:middle line:84% and dress like a true disciple of Jesus Christ." 00:45:26.840 --> 00:45:31.770 align:middle line:84% That can be a hard thing, yet I know you can do it--with joy. 00:45:31.770 --> 00:45:34.070 align:middle line:84% Remember that "men are, that they might have joy." 00:45:34.070 --> 00:45:37.330 align:middle line:84% With all that Lehi faced, he still found joy. 00:45:37.330 --> 00:45:40.010 align:middle line:84% Remember when Alma was "weighed down with sorrow" because 00:45:40.010 --> 00:45:41.450 align:middle line:90% of the people of Ammonihah? 00:45:41.450 --> 00:45:45.230 align:middle line:84% The angel told him, "Blessed art thou, Alma; therefore, 00:45:45.230 --> 00:45:47.150 align:middle line:84% lift up thy head and rejoice, ... 00:45:47.150 --> 00:45:49.590 align:middle line:84% for thou hast been faithful in keeping the commandments 00:45:49.590 --> 00:45:50.490 align:middle line:90% of God." 00:45:50.490 --> 00:45:54.030 align:middle line:84% Alma learned a great truth: we can always rejoice 00:45:54.030 --> 00:45:55.630 align:middle line:90% when we keep the commandments. 00:45:55.630 --> 00:45:58.460 align:middle line:84% Remember that during the wars and challenges faced 00:45:58.460 --> 00:46:00.280 align:middle line:84% during the time of Captain Moroni, 00:46:00.280 --> 00:46:03.790 align:middle line:84% "there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi." 00:46:03.790 --> 00:46:07.750 align:middle line:84% We can and should find joy when we face hard things. 00:46:07.750 --> 00:46:10.640 align:middle line:84% The Savior faced hard things: "The world ... 00:46:10.640 --> 00:46:12.930 align:middle line:84% shall judge him to be a thing of naught; 00:46:12.930 --> 00:46:15.960 align:middle line:84% wherefore they scourge him, and he suffereth it; ... 00:46:15.960 --> 00:46:18.440 align:middle line:84% they smite him, and he suffereth it. 00:46:18.440 --> 00:46:21.300 align:middle line:84% Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it, 00:46:21.300 --> 00:46:24.290 align:middle line:84% because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering 00:46:24.290 --> 00:46:26.380 align:middle line:90% towards the children of men." 00:46:26.380 --> 00:46:28.970 align:middle line:84% Because of that loving-kindness, Jesus Christ 00:46:28.970 --> 00:46:30.220 align:middle line:90% suffered the Atonement. 00:46:30.220 --> 00:46:33.940 align:middle line:84% As a result, He says to each one of us, "In the world 00:46:33.940 --> 00:46:36.820 align:middle line:84% ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; 00:46:36.820 --> 00:46:38.600 align:middle line:90% I have overcome the world." 00:46:38.600 --> 00:46:42.420 align:middle line:84% Because of Christ, we too can overcome the world. 00:46:42.420 --> 00:46:45.190 align:middle line:84% As we face hard things in the Lord's way, may 00:46:45.190 --> 00:46:47.400 align:middle line:84% we lift up our heads and rejoice. 00:46:47.400 --> 00:46:50.970 align:middle line:84% At this sacred opportunity to testify to the world, 00:46:50.970 --> 00:46:54.900 align:middle line:84% I proclaim that our Savior lives and guides His Church. 00:46:54.900 --> 00:46:56.900 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:46:56.900 --> 00:47:07.080 align:middle line:90% 00:47:07.080 --> 00:47:10.620 align:middle line:84% As parents in Zion, we have a sacred responsibility, 00:47:10.620 --> 00:47:16.450 align:middle line:84% a duty to awaken within our children passion and commitment 00:47:16.450 --> 00:47:20.360 align:middle line:84% to the gospel of Jesus Christ--to the light 00:47:20.360 --> 00:47:22.100 align:middle line:90% and the truths of that gospel. 00:47:22.100 --> 00:47:25.440 align:middle line:84% While raising our children, we establish traditions 00:47:25.440 --> 00:47:27.860 align:middle line:84% within our home, and we build patterns 00:47:27.860 --> 00:47:30.950 align:middle line:84% of communication and behavior within our family 00:47:30.950 --> 00:47:32.410 align:middle line:90% relationships. 00:47:32.410 --> 00:47:36.590 align:middle line:84% In doing so, the traditions we establish 00:47:36.590 --> 00:47:40.420 align:middle line:84% should ingrain strong, unwavering characteristics 00:47:40.420 --> 00:47:43.830 align:middle line:84% of goodness in our children that will infuse them 00:47:43.830 --> 00:47:47.960 align:middle line:84% with strength to confront the challenges of life. 00:47:47.960 --> 00:47:50.940 align:middle line:84% For many years, our family has enjoyed the annual tradition 00:47:50.940 --> 00:47:54.970 align:middle line:84% of camping high in the Uintah Mountains of northeastern Utah. 00:47:54.970 --> 00:47:58.980 align:middle line:84% We travel 20 miles over a rocky dirt road 00:47:58.980 --> 00:48:02.500 align:middle line:84% to arrive at a beautiful green valley with towering canyon 00:48:02.500 --> 00:48:05.910 align:middle line:84% walls and through which runs a river filled 00:48:05.910 --> 00:48:08.210 align:middle line:90% with cold, clear water. 00:48:08.210 --> 00:48:12.610 align:middle line:84% Each year, hoping to reaffirm the value of gospel doctrine 00:48:12.610 --> 00:48:16.240 align:middle line:84% and practices within the hearts of our children 00:48:16.240 --> 00:48:18.920 align:middle line:84% and our grandchildren, Susan and I 00:48:18.920 --> 00:48:21.640 align:middle line:84% ask each of our six sons and their families 00:48:21.640 --> 00:48:26.160 align:middle line:84% to prepare a short message on a topic they 00:48:26.160 --> 00:48:29.020 align:middle line:84% feel is an important element in the foundation 00:48:29.020 --> 00:48:31.620 align:middle line:90% of a Christ-centered home. 00:48:31.620 --> 00:48:36.760 align:middle line:84% We then gather for a family devotional in a secluded place, 00:48:36.760 --> 00:48:39.300 align:middle line:90% and each presents their message. 00:48:39.300 --> 00:48:43.080 align:middle line:84% This year our grandchildren wrote the topic 00:48:43.080 --> 00:48:48.900 align:middle line:84% of their message on stones and then, one by one, 00:48:48.900 --> 00:48:53.680 align:middle line:84% buried them next to one another, representing a sure foundation 00:48:53.680 --> 00:48:56.280 align:middle line:84% upon which a happy life is established. 00:48:56.280 --> 00:48:59.110 align:middle line:84% Woven among all six of their messages 00:48:59.110 --> 00:49:03.490 align:middle line:84% was the immutable, eternal truth that Jesus Christ 00:49:03.490 --> 00:49:06.970 align:middle line:84% is the cornerstone of that foundation. 00:49:06.970 --> 00:49:10.280 align:middle line:84% In the words of Isaiah, "Therefore thus 00:49:10.280 --> 00:49:15.030 align:middle line:84% saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation 00:49:15.030 --> 00:49:20.240 align:middle line:84% a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, 00:49:20.240 --> 00:49:22.740 align:middle line:90% a sure foundation." 00:49:22.740 --> 00:49:25.920 align:middle line:84% Jesus Christ is that precious cornerstone 00:49:25.920 --> 00:49:27.650 align:middle line:90% in the foundation of Zion. 00:49:27.650 --> 00:49:31.140 align:middle line:84% It was He who revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith: 00:49:31.140 --> 00:49:33.540 align:middle line:84% "Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, 00:49:33.540 --> 00:49:36.340 align:middle line:84% for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. 00:49:36.340 --> 00:49:38.890 align:middle line:84% And out of small things proceedeth 00:49:38.890 --> 00:49:41.440 align:middle line:90% that which is great." 00:49:41.440 --> 00:49:43.910 align:middle line:84% Lessons taught through the traditions we establish 00:49:43.910 --> 00:49:46.530 align:middle line:84% in our homes, though small and simple, 00:49:46.530 --> 00:49:50.340 align:middle line:84% are increasingly important in today's world. 00:49:50.340 --> 00:49:54.590 align:middle line:84% What are the small and simple things that, when established, 00:49:54.590 --> 00:49:58.940 align:middle line:84% will perform a great work in the lives of our children? 00:49:58.940 --> 00:50:01.120 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson recently 00:50:01.120 --> 00:50:04.340 align:middle line:84% addressed a large congregation in Toronto, Canada, 00:50:04.340 --> 00:50:08.310 align:middle line:84% and poignantly reminded parents of the sacred responsibility 00:50:08.310 --> 00:50:10.350 align:middle line:90% we have to teach our children. 00:50:10.350 --> 00:50:14.280 align:middle line:84% Among the essential responsibilities identified, 00:50:14.280 --> 00:50:17.990 align:middle line:84% President Nelson emphasized the duties 00:50:17.990 --> 00:50:21.990 align:middle line:84% we have as parents to teach our children to understand why 00:50:21.990 --> 00:50:26.180 align:middle line:84% we partake of the sacrament, the significance of being born 00:50:26.180 --> 00:50:29.790 align:middle line:84% in the covenant, the importance of preparing for 00:50:29.790 --> 00:50:32.280 align:middle line:84% and receiving a patriarchal blessing, 00:50:32.280 --> 00:50:36.070 align:middle line:84% and he encouraged parents to lead out 00:50:36.070 --> 00:50:39.580 align:middle line:84% in the reading of scriptures together as a family. 00:50:39.580 --> 00:50:44.060 align:middle line:84% By these efforts, our beloved prophet 00:50:44.060 --> 00:50:50.880 align:middle line:84% urges us to make our homes "sanctuaries of faith." 00:50:50.880 --> 00:50:54.420 align:middle line:84% In the Book of Mormon, Enos records the gratitude 00:50:54.420 --> 00:50:57.520 align:middle line:84% he felt for the example of his father, who 00:50:57.520 --> 00:51:02.240 align:middle line:84% "taught [him] in his language, and also in the nurture 00:51:02.240 --> 00:51:04.760 align:middle line:90% and admonition of the Lord." 00:51:04.760 --> 00:51:07.780 align:middle line:84% With great emotion, Enos exclaimed, 00:51:07.780 --> 00:51:12.600 align:middle line:84% "And blessed be the name of my God for it." 00:51:12.600 --> 00:51:14.850 align:middle line:84% I cherish the small and simple traditions 00:51:14.850 --> 00:51:17.910 align:middle line:84% we have come to observe in our home over the 35 00:51:17.910 --> 00:51:19.310 align:middle line:90% years of our marriage. 00:51:19.310 --> 00:51:22.890 align:middle line:84% Many of our traditions are subtle yet meaningful. 00:51:22.890 --> 00:51:24.310 align:middle line:90% For example: 00:51:24.310 --> 00:51:26.810 align:middle line:84% During evenings when I was away from home, 00:51:26.810 --> 00:51:31.020 align:middle line:84% I always knew that our oldest son present would take it 00:51:31.020 --> 00:51:32.830 align:middle line:84% upon himself, without being asked, 00:51:32.830 --> 00:51:38.440 align:middle line:84% to lead the family in scripture study and family prayer. 00:51:38.440 --> 00:51:41.900 align:middle line:84% Another tradition--we never leave our home or end 00:51:41.900 --> 00:51:46.100 align:middle line:84% a telephone conversation without saying, "I love you." 00:51:46.100 --> 00:51:49.300 align:middle line:90% 00:51:49.300 --> 00:51:51.490 align:middle line:84% Our lives have been blessed by setting aside 00:51:51.490 --> 00:51:56.610 align:middle line:84% time on a regular basis to enjoy personal interviews with each 00:51:56.610 --> 00:51:57.930 align:middle line:90% of our sons. 00:51:57.930 --> 00:52:00.000 align:middle line:84% During one interview I asked our son 00:52:00.000 --> 00:52:03.160 align:middle line:84% about his desires and preparation to serve a mission. 00:52:03.160 --> 00:52:08.270 align:middle line:84% After some discussion, there was a moment of reflective silence; 00:52:08.270 --> 00:52:11.790 align:middle line:84% then he leaned forward and thoughtfully declared, 00:52:11.790 --> 00:52:16.450 align:middle line:84% "Dad, remember when I was little and we started 00:52:16.450 --> 00:52:18.490 align:middle line:90% having father's interviews?" 00:52:18.490 --> 00:52:20.460 align:middle line:90% I said, "Yes." 00:52:20.460 --> 00:52:23.560 align:middle line:84% "Well," he said, "I promised you then 00:52:23.560 --> 00:52:26.097 align:middle line:84% that I would serve a mission, and you and Mom 00:52:26.097 --> 00:52:29.330 align:middle line:84% promised me that you and Mom would serve a mission when 00:52:29.330 --> 00:52:30.530 align:middle line:90% you got old." 00:52:30.530 --> 00:52:33.240 align:middle line:90% Then there was another pause. 00:52:33.240 --> 00:52:36.450 align:middle line:84% "Are you guys having some problem that will stop you from 00:52:36.450 --> 00:52:38.110 align:middle line:84% serving ... because maybe I can help?" 00:52:38.110 --> 00:52:41.700 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:52:41.700 --> 00:52:45.380 align:middle line:84% Consistent, wholesome family traditions 00:52:45.380 --> 00:52:49.540 align:middle line:84% that include prayer, scripture reading, family home evening, 00:52:49.540 --> 00:52:51.490 align:middle line:84% and attendance at Church meetings, 00:52:51.490 --> 00:52:53.760 align:middle line:84% though seemingly small and simple, 00:52:53.760 --> 00:53:00.070 align:middle line:84% create a culture of love, respect, unity, and security. 00:53:00.070 --> 00:53:02.610 align:middle line:84% In the spirit that accompanies these efforts, 00:53:02.610 --> 00:53:06.590 align:middle line:84% our children become protected from the fiery darts 00:53:06.590 --> 00:53:12.450 align:middle line:84% of the adversary so embedded in the worldly culture of our day. 00:53:12.450 --> 00:53:16.610 align:middle line:84% We are reminded of the wise counsel of Helaman to his sons: 00:53:16.610 --> 00:53:20.320 align:middle line:84% "Remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, 00:53:20.320 --> 00:53:25.690 align:middle line:84% who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build 00:53:25.690 --> 00:53:29.290 align:middle line:84% your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his 00:53:29.290 --> 00:53:33.030 align:middle line:84% mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, 00:53:33.030 --> 00:53:37.090 align:middle line:84% when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, 00:53:37.090 --> 00:53:43.650 align:middle line:84% it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf 00:53:43.650 --> 00:53:48.330 align:middle line:84% of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which 00:53:48.330 --> 00:53:50.760 align:middle line:84% ye are built, which is a sure foundation, 00:53:50.760 --> 00:53:56.470 align:middle line:84% a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." 00:53:56.470 --> 00:53:59.460 align:middle line:84% Years ago, while serving as a young bishop, 00:53:59.460 --> 00:54:02.790 align:middle line:84% an older gentleman asked to meet with me. 00:54:02.790 --> 00:54:05.590 align:middle line:84% He described his departure from the Church 00:54:05.590 --> 00:54:07.820 align:middle line:84% and the righteous traditions of his parents 00:54:07.820 --> 00:54:09.780 align:middle line:90% when he was in his youth. 00:54:09.780 --> 00:54:12.070 align:middle line:84% He described in detail the heartache 00:54:12.070 --> 00:54:15.950 align:middle line:84% he experienced during his life while vainly seeking 00:54:15.950 --> 00:54:21.500 align:middle line:84% lasting joy amidst the momentary happiness the world has 00:54:21.500 --> 00:54:22.270 align:middle line:90% to offer. 00:54:22.270 --> 00:54:25.280 align:middle line:84% Now, in his later years of life, he 00:54:25.280 --> 00:54:29.170 align:middle line:84% experienced the tender, sometimes nagging, 00:54:29.170 --> 00:54:33.000 align:middle line:84% whispering sensations of the Spirit of God guiding him 00:54:33.000 --> 00:54:36.680 align:middle line:84% back to the lessons, practices, and the feelings 00:54:36.680 --> 00:54:40.580 align:middle line:84% and spiritual safety of his youth. 00:54:40.580 --> 00:54:45.010 align:middle line:84% He expressed gratitude for the traditions of his parents, 00:54:45.010 --> 00:54:46.970 align:middle line:84% and in modern-day words, he echoed 00:54:46.970 --> 00:54:50.970 align:middle line:84% the proclamation of Enos: "Blessed be the name of my God 00:54:50.970 --> 00:54:53.040 align:middle line:90% for it." 00:54:53.040 --> 00:54:58.190 align:middle line:84% In my experience, this dear man's return to the gospel 00:54:58.190 --> 00:55:02.170 align:middle line:84% is characteristic of many and is repeated often 00:55:02.170 --> 00:55:04.980 align:middle line:84% among God's children who leave for a time, 00:55:04.980 --> 00:55:09.450 align:middle line:84% only to return to the teachings and the practices 00:55:09.450 --> 00:55:10.720 align:middle line:90% of their youth. 00:55:10.720 --> 00:55:12.740 align:middle line:84% In these moments, we witness the wisdom 00:55:12.740 --> 00:55:16.880 align:middle line:84% of the writer of the proverb, who exhorts parents, 00:55:16.880 --> 00:55:21.970 align:middle line:84% "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, 00:55:21.970 --> 00:55:25.420 align:middle line:90% he will not depart from it." 00:55:25.420 --> 00:55:28.410 align:middle line:84% Every parent faces moments of frustration and varying 00:55:28.410 --> 00:55:30.760 align:middle line:84% levels of determination and strength 00:55:30.760 --> 00:55:32.000 align:middle line:90% while raising children. 00:55:32.000 --> 00:55:36.070 align:middle line:84% However, when parents exercise faith 00:55:36.070 --> 00:55:41.090 align:middle line:84% by teaching children candidly, lovingly, and doing 00:55:41.090 --> 00:55:43.240 align:middle line:84% all they can to help them along the way, 00:55:43.240 --> 00:55:47.030 align:middle line:84% they receive greater hope that the seeds being sown 00:55:47.030 --> 00:55:51.790 align:middle line:84% will take root within the hearts and minds of their children. 00:55:51.790 --> 00:55:54.430 align:middle line:84% Moses well understood the fundamental need 00:55:54.430 --> 00:55:56.260 align:middle line:90% for constant teaching. 00:55:56.260 --> 00:56:00.030 align:middle line:84% He counseled, "And thou shalt teach [these words] 00:56:00.030 --> 00:56:03.440 align:middle line:84% diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk [to] them 00:56:03.440 --> 00:56:05.670 align:middle line:84% when thou sittest in thine house, 00:56:05.670 --> 00:56:10.110 align:middle line:84% and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, 00:56:10.110 --> 00:56:13.210 align:middle line:90% and when thou risest up." 00:56:13.210 --> 00:56:16.310 align:middle line:84% We kneel beside our children during family prayer; 00:56:16.310 --> 00:56:18.400 align:middle line:84% we care for them through our efforts 00:56:18.400 --> 00:56:21.300 align:middle line:84% to hold meaningful family scripture reading; 00:56:21.300 --> 00:56:24.170 align:middle line:84% we patiently, lovingly care for them 00:56:24.170 --> 00:56:27.450 align:middle line:84% as together we participate in family home evening; 00:56:27.450 --> 00:56:30.300 align:middle line:84% and we anguish for them on our knees 00:56:30.300 --> 00:56:33.450 align:middle line:84% in the midst of our private prayers to heaven. 00:56:33.450 --> 00:56:37.500 align:middle line:84% Oh, how we yearn for the seeds we 00:56:37.500 --> 00:56:40.160 align:middle line:84% are sowing to take root within the hearts 00:56:40.160 --> 00:56:42.840 align:middle line:90% and minds of our children. 00:56:42.840 --> 00:56:44.950 align:middle line:84% I believe that it is less a question 00:56:44.950 --> 00:56:47.380 align:middle line:84% of whether our children are "getting it" 00:56:47.380 --> 00:56:50.190 align:middle line:84% in the midst of our teaching, such as while striving 00:56:50.190 --> 00:56:51.910 align:middle line:84% to read the scriptures or to have 00:56:51.910 --> 00:56:56.020 align:middle line:84% family home evening or attend Mutual and other Church 00:56:56.020 --> 00:56:56.780 align:middle line:90% meetings. 00:56:56.780 --> 00:57:00.160 align:middle line:84% It is less a question of whether in those moments 00:57:00.160 --> 00:57:04.050 align:middle line:84% they are understanding the importance of those activities 00:57:04.050 --> 00:57:08.560 align:middle line:84% and more a question of whether we, as parents, are exercising 00:57:08.560 --> 00:57:11.800 align:middle line:84% faith enough to follow the Lord's counsel 00:57:11.800 --> 00:57:17.420 align:middle line:84% to diligently live, teach, exhort, and set forth 00:57:17.420 --> 00:57:22.510 align:middle line:84% expectations that are inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ. 00:57:22.510 --> 00:57:29.050 align:middle line:84% It is an effort driven by our faith--our belief that one day, 00:57:29.050 --> 00:57:32.820 align:middle line:84% the seeds sown in their youth will take root and begin 00:57:32.820 --> 00:57:35.660 align:middle line:90% to sprout and grow. 00:57:35.660 --> 00:57:39.930 align:middle line:84% The things we talk of, the things we preach and teach, 00:57:39.930 --> 00:57:43.140 align:middle line:84% determine the things that will happen among us. 00:57:43.140 --> 00:57:45.550 align:middle line:84% As we establish wholesome traditions that 00:57:45.550 --> 00:57:49.140 align:middle line:84% teach the doctrine of Christ, the Holy Spirit 00:57:49.140 --> 00:57:51.820 align:middle line:84% bears witness of the truthfulness of our message 00:57:51.820 --> 00:57:56.510 align:middle line:84% and nourishes the seeds of the gospel that are planted deep 00:57:56.510 --> 00:58:00.390 align:middle line:84% in the hearts of our children by our efforts all along the way. 00:58:00.390 --> 00:58:05.140 align:middle line:84% I so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:58:05.140 --> 00:58:14.610 align:middle line:90% 00:58:14.610 --> 00:58:17.570 align:middle line:84% The congregation will now join the choir 00:58:17.570 --> 00:58:21.110 align:middle line:84% in singing "High on the Mountain Top." 00:58:21.110 --> 00:58:25.890 align:middle line:84% After the singing, we will hear from Elders Ronald A. 00:58:25.890 --> 00:58:31.655 align:middle line:84% Rasband and David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve 00:58:31.655 --> 00:58:32.155 align:middle line:90% Apostles. 00:58:32.155 --> 00:58:49.810 align:middle line:90% 00:58:49.810 --> 00:58:54.220 align:middle line:84% This is the 188th Semiannual General Conference 00:58:54.220 --> 00:58:57.240 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:58:57.240 --> 00:59:09.110 align:middle line:90% 00:59:09.110 --> 01:01:20.456 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "HIGH ON THE MOUNTAIN TOP"] 01:01:20.456 --> 01:01:30.440 align:middle line:90% 01:01:30.440 --> 01:01:34.670 align:middle line:84% I add my witness to the messages of President Nelson and Elder 01:01:34.670 --> 01:01:39.680 align:middle line:84% Cook given moments ago of the harmony and unanimity 01:01:39.680 --> 01:01:42.200 align:middle line:84% of the Council of the First Presidency 01:01:42.200 --> 01:01:44.950 align:middle line:84% and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 01:01:44.950 --> 01:01:48.120 align:middle line:84% I know these revelatory announcements 01:01:48.120 --> 01:01:50.750 align:middle line:84% are the mind and the will of the Lord 01:01:50.750 --> 01:01:54.740 align:middle line:84% and will bless and strengthen individuals, families, 01:01:54.740 --> 01:01:57.470 align:middle line:84% and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 01:01:57.470 --> 01:02:02.050 align:middle line:90% Saints for generations to come. 01:02:02.050 --> 01:02:05.230 align:middle line:84% Some years ago, one of our young married daughters 01:02:05.230 --> 01:02:07.940 align:middle line:84% and her husband asked Sister Rasband 01:02:07.940 --> 01:02:12.640 align:middle line:84% and me a very important, life-influencing question: 01:02:12.640 --> 01:02:16.660 align:middle line:84% "Is it still safe and wise to bring children 01:02:16.660 --> 01:02:22.120 align:middle line:84% into this seemingly wicked and frightening world we live in?" 01:02:22.120 --> 01:02:25.780 align:middle line:84% Now, that was an important question for a mom and dad 01:02:25.780 --> 01:02:29.720 align:middle line:84% to consider with their dear married children. 01:02:29.720 --> 01:02:32.690 align:middle line:84% We could hear the fear in their voices, 01:02:32.690 --> 01:02:36.220 align:middle line:84% and we felt the fear in their hearts. 01:02:36.220 --> 01:02:39.880 align:middle line:84% Our answer to them was a firm "Yes, it's 01:02:39.880 --> 01:02:44.160 align:middle line:84% more than OK," as we shared fundamental gospel 01:02:44.160 --> 01:02:48.770 align:middle line:84% teachings and our own heartfelt impressions and life 01:02:48.770 --> 01:02:51.360 align:middle line:90% experiences. 01:02:51.360 --> 01:02:53.560 align:middle line:90% Fear is not new. 01:02:53.560 --> 01:02:57.770 align:middle line:84% The disciples of Jesus Christ out on the Sea of Galilee 01:02:57.770 --> 01:03:01.890 align:middle line:84% feared the wind and the waves in the dark of night. 01:03:01.890 --> 01:03:06.810 align:middle line:84% As His disciples today, we too have fears. 01:03:06.810 --> 01:03:09.950 align:middle line:84% Our single adults fear making commitments 01:03:09.950 --> 01:03:14.310 align:middle line:84% such as getting married; young marrieds, like our children, 01:03:14.310 --> 01:03:19.170 align:middle line:84% can fear bringing children into an increasingly wicked world. 01:03:19.170 --> 01:03:23.510 align:middle line:84% Missionaries fear lots of things, especially approaching 01:03:23.510 --> 01:03:24.930 align:middle line:90% strangers. 01:03:24.930 --> 01:03:27.920 align:middle line:90% Widows fear going forward alone. 01:03:27.920 --> 01:03:30.760 align:middle line:84% Teenagers fear not being accepted; 01:03:30.760 --> 01:03:33.850 align:middle line:84% grade-schoolers fear the first day of school; 01:03:33.850 --> 01:03:37.450 align:middle line:84% university students fear getting back a test. 01:03:37.450 --> 01:03:46.440 align:middle line:84% We fear failure, rejection, disappointment, 01:03:46.440 --> 01:03:48.400 align:middle line:90% and the unknown. 01:03:48.400 --> 01:03:53.730 align:middle line:84% We fear hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires that 01:03:53.730 --> 01:03:57.170 align:middle line:90% ravage the land and our lives. 01:03:57.170 --> 01:04:01.360 align:middle line:84% We fear not being chosen, and on the flip side, 01:04:01.360 --> 01:04:02.910 align:middle line:90% we fear being chosen. 01:04:02.910 --> 01:04:05.440 align:middle line:90% 01:04:05.440 --> 01:04:08.250 align:middle line:84% We fear not being good enough; we 01:04:08.250 --> 01:04:12.090 align:middle line:84% fear that the Lord has no blessings for us. 01:04:12.090 --> 01:04:17.840 align:middle line:84% We fear change, and our fears can escalate to terror. 01:04:17.840 --> 01:04:22.640 align:middle line:84% Have I included just about everyone now? 01:04:22.640 --> 01:04:27.070 align:middle line:84% Since ancient times, fear has limited the perspective 01:04:27.070 --> 01:04:28.560 align:middle line:90% of God's children. 01:04:28.560 --> 01:04:33.490 align:middle line:84% I have always loved the account of Elisha in 2 Kings. 01:04:33.490 --> 01:04:38.060 align:middle line:84% The king of Syria had sent a legion that "came by night, 01:04:38.060 --> 01:04:40.280 align:middle line:90% and compassed the city about." 01:04:40.280 --> 01:04:45.350 align:middle line:84% Their intent was to capture and kill the prophet Elisha. 01:04:45.350 --> 01:04:47.100 align:middle line:90% We read: 01:04:47.100 --> 01:04:49.070 align:middle line:84% "And when the servant of the man of God 01:04:49.070 --> 01:04:53.560 align:middle line:84% was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host 01:04:53.560 --> 01:04:57.910 align:middle line:84% compassed the city both with horses and chariots. 01:04:57.910 --> 01:05:02.370 align:middle line:84% And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! 01:05:02.370 --> 01:05:05.060 align:middle line:90% How shall we do?" 01:05:05.060 --> 01:05:08.350 align:middle line:90% That was fear speaking. 01:05:08.350 --> 01:05:12.270 align:middle line:84% "And [Elisha] answered, Fear not: for they 01:05:12.270 --> 01:05:16.670 align:middle line:84% that be with us are more than they that be with them." 01:05:16.670 --> 01:05:18.860 align:middle line:90% But he didn't stop there. 01:05:18.860 --> 01:05:22.480 align:middle line:84% "Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, 01:05:22.480 --> 01:05:25.600 align:middle line:90% open his eyes, that he may see. 01:05:25.600 --> 01:05:30.540 align:middle line:84% And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: 01:05:30.540 --> 01:05:34.840 align:middle line:84% and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots 01:05:34.840 --> 01:05:39.520 align:middle line:90% of fire round about Elisha." 01:05:39.520 --> 01:05:42.740 align:middle line:84% We may or may not have chariots of fire 01:05:42.740 --> 01:05:46.970 align:middle line:84% sent to dispel our fears and conquer our demons, 01:05:46.970 --> 01:05:49.160 align:middle line:90% but the lesson is clear. 01:05:49.160 --> 01:05:52.440 align:middle line:84% The Lord is with us, mindful of us, 01:05:52.440 --> 01:05:56.320 align:middle line:84% and blessing us in ways only He can do. 01:05:56.320 --> 01:06:00.190 align:middle line:84% Prayer can call down the strength and the revelation 01:06:00.190 --> 01:06:03.970 align:middle line:84% that we need to center our thoughts on Jesus Christ 01:06:03.970 --> 01:06:06.590 align:middle line:90% and His atoning sacrifice. 01:06:06.590 --> 01:06:10.520 align:middle line:84% The Lord knew that at times we would feel fear. 01:06:10.520 --> 01:06:13.650 align:middle line:84% I have been there, and so have you, 01:06:13.650 --> 01:06:17.550 align:middle line:84% which is why the scriptures are replete with the Lord's 01:06:17.550 --> 01:06:19.100 align:middle line:90% counsel: 01:06:19.100 --> 01:06:22.860 align:middle line:84% "Be of good cheer, and do not fear." 01:06:22.860 --> 01:06:28.280 align:middle line:84% "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not." 01:06:28.280 --> 01:06:30.790 align:middle line:90% "Fear not, little flock." 01:06:30.790 --> 01:06:34.500 align:middle line:84% I love the tenderness of "little flock." 01:06:34.500 --> 01:06:38.470 align:middle line:84% In this Church we may be few in number by the way 01:06:38.470 --> 01:06:41.190 align:middle line:84% the world counts influence, but when 01:06:41.190 --> 01:06:45.750 align:middle line:84% we open our spiritual eyes, "they that be with us 01:06:45.750 --> 01:06:49.410 align:middle line:84% are more than they that be with them." 01:06:49.410 --> 01:06:53.550 align:middle line:84% Our loving Shepherd, Jesus Christ, then continues, 01:06:53.550 --> 01:06:56.410 align:middle line:84% "Let earth and hell combine against you, 01:06:56.410 --> 01:07:02.250 align:middle line:84% for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail." 01:07:02.250 --> 01:07:04.340 align:middle line:90% How is fear dispelled? 01:07:04.340 --> 01:07:08.380 align:middle line:84% For the young lad, he was standing right next to Elisha, 01:07:08.380 --> 01:07:10.140 align:middle line:90% a prophet of God. 01:07:10.140 --> 01:07:12.530 align:middle line:90% We have that same promise. 01:07:12.530 --> 01:07:16.310 align:middle line:84% When we listen to President Russell M. Nelson, when 01:07:16.310 --> 01:07:19.080 align:middle line:84% we hearken to his counsel, we are 01:07:19.080 --> 01:07:21.510 align:middle line:90% standing with a prophet of God. 01:07:21.510 --> 01:07:24.420 align:middle line:84% Remember the words of Joseph Smith: 01:07:24.420 --> 01:07:27.260 align:middle line:84% "And now, after the many testimonies which 01:07:27.260 --> 01:07:30.510 align:middle line:84% have been given of him, this is the testimony, 01:07:30.510 --> 01:07:35.040 align:middle line:84% last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!" 01:07:35.040 --> 01:07:38.160 align:middle line:90% Jesus Christ lives. 01:07:38.160 --> 01:07:45.460 align:middle line:84% Our love for Him and His gospel dispels fear. 01:07:45.460 --> 01:07:49.290 align:middle line:84% Our desire to "always have His Spirit" with us will push 01:07:49.290 --> 01:07:54.990 align:middle line:84% fear aside for a more eternal view of our mortal lives. 01:07:54.990 --> 01:07:59.300 align:middle line:84% President Nelson has cautioned, "In coming days, 01:07:59.300 --> 01:08:02.760 align:middle line:84% it will not be possible to survive spiritually 01:08:02.760 --> 01:08:06.230 align:middle line:84% without the guiding, directing, comforting, 01:08:06.230 --> 01:08:10.800 align:middle line:84% and constant influence of the Holy Ghost." 01:08:10.800 --> 01:08:12.900 align:middle line:84% The Lord said, regarding the scourges 01:08:12.900 --> 01:08:15.430 align:middle line:84% that would cover the land and would harden 01:08:15.430 --> 01:08:18.520 align:middle line:84% the hearts of many, "My disciples 01:08:18.520 --> 01:08:23.590 align:middle line:84% shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved." 01:08:23.590 --> 01:08:28.890 align:middle line:84% And then this divine counsel: "Be not troubled, for, 01:08:28.890 --> 01:08:31.470 align:middle line:84% when all these things shall come to pass, 01:08:31.470 --> 01:08:34.859 align:middle line:84% ye may know that the promises which have been made 01:08:34.859 --> 01:08:38.520 align:middle line:90% unto you shall be fulfilled." 01:08:38.520 --> 01:08:43.439 align:middle line:84% Stand in holy places, be not troubled, and promises 01:08:43.439 --> 01:08:45.080 align:middle line:90% shall be fulfilled. 01:08:45.080 --> 01:08:50.210 align:middle line:84% Let's look at each one of these in relation to our fears. 01:08:50.210 --> 01:08:53.220 align:middle line:90% First, stand in holy places. 01:08:53.220 --> 01:08:57.600 align:middle line:84% When we stand in holy places--our righteous homes, 01:08:57.600 --> 01:09:02.520 align:middle line:84% our dedicated chapels, the consecrated temples--we feel 01:09:02.520 --> 01:09:04.840 align:middle line:90% the Spirit of the Lord with us. 01:09:04.840 --> 01:09:08.529 align:middle line:84% We find answers to questions that trouble us 01:09:08.529 --> 01:09:13.060 align:middle line:84% or the peace to simply set them aside. 01:09:13.060 --> 01:09:15.640 align:middle line:90% That is the Spirit in action. 01:09:15.640 --> 01:09:19.260 align:middle line:84% These sacred places in the kingdom of God on earth 01:09:19.260 --> 01:09:23.580 align:middle line:84% call for our reverence, our respect of others, our best 01:09:23.580 --> 01:09:26.300 align:middle line:84% selves in living the gospel, and our 01:09:26.300 --> 01:09:31.770 align:middle line:84% hopes to lay aside our fears and seek the healing power of Jesus 01:09:31.770 --> 01:09:35.399 align:middle line:90% Christ through His Atonement. 01:09:35.399 --> 01:09:38.880 align:middle line:84% There is no room for fear in these holy places of God 01:09:38.880 --> 01:09:41.189 align:middle line:84% or in the hearts of His children. 01:09:41.189 --> 01:09:42.330 align:middle line:90% Why? 01:09:42.330 --> 01:09:44.140 align:middle line:90% Because of love. 01:09:44.140 --> 01:09:48.479 align:middle line:84% God loves us--always--and we love Him. 01:09:48.479 --> 01:09:53.069 align:middle line:84% Our love of God counters all fears, and His love 01:09:53.069 --> 01:09:55.340 align:middle line:90% abounds in holy places. 01:09:55.340 --> 01:09:56.670 align:middle line:90% Think about it. 01:09:56.670 --> 01:10:00.200 align:middle line:84% When we are tentative in our commitments to the Lord, 01:10:00.200 --> 01:10:04.440 align:middle line:84% when we stray from His path leading to life eternal, 01:10:04.440 --> 01:10:08.970 align:middle line:84% when we question or doubt our significance in His divine 01:10:08.970 --> 01:10:13.650 align:middle line:84% design, when we allow fear to open the door to all its 01:10:13.650 --> 01:10:18.170 align:middle line:84% companions--discouragement, anger, frustration, 01:10:18.170 --> 01:10:21.600 align:middle line:84% disappointment--the Spirit leaves us, 01:10:21.600 --> 01:10:24.240 align:middle line:90% and we are without the Lord. 01:10:24.240 --> 01:10:27.760 align:middle line:84% If you know what that is like, you 01:10:27.760 --> 01:10:30.160 align:middle line:84% know it is not a good place to be. 01:10:30.160 --> 01:10:34.370 align:middle line:84% In contrast, when we stand in holy places, 01:10:34.370 --> 01:10:38.920 align:middle line:84% we can feel God's love, and "perfect love 01:10:38.920 --> 01:10:42.930 align:middle line:90% casteth out all fear." 01:10:42.930 --> 01:10:46.030 align:middle line:84% The next promise is "Be not troubled." 01:10:46.030 --> 01:10:50.150 align:middle line:84% No matter how much wickedness and chaos fills the earth, 01:10:50.150 --> 01:10:55.430 align:middle line:84% we are promised by our daily faithfulness in Jesus Christ 01:10:55.430 --> 01:11:00.080 align:middle line:84% the "peace of God, which passeth all understanding." 01:11:00.080 --> 01:11:04.600 align:middle line:84% And when Christ comes in all power and glory, evil, 01:11:04.600 --> 01:11:09.510 align:middle line:84% rebellion, and injustice will end. 01:11:09.510 --> 01:11:13.110 align:middle line:84% Long ago the Apostle Paul prophesied of our times, 01:11:13.110 --> 01:11:15.410 align:middle line:90% saying to the young Timothy: 01:11:15.410 --> 01:11:18.520 align:middle line:84% "This know also, that in the last days 01:11:18.520 --> 01:11:21.060 align:middle line:90% perilous times shall come. 01:11:21.060 --> 01:11:24.570 align:middle line:84% "For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, 01:11:24.570 --> 01:11:28.800 align:middle line:84% boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, 01:11:28.800 --> 01:11:30.430 align:middle line:90% unthankful, unholy, ... 01:11:30.430 --> 01:11:35.320 align:middle line:84% "... lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God." 01:11:35.320 --> 01:11:40.580 align:middle line:84% Remember, "they that be with us" on both sides of the veil, 01:11:40.580 --> 01:11:44.330 align:middle line:84% those who love the Lord with all their heart, might, mind, 01:11:44.330 --> 01:11:48.600 align:middle line:84% and strength, "are more than they that be with them." 01:11:48.600 --> 01:11:52.360 align:middle line:84% If we actively trust in the Lord and His ways, 01:11:52.360 --> 01:11:55.090 align:middle line:84% if we are engaged in His work, we 01:11:55.090 --> 01:11:59.890 align:middle line:84% will not fear the trends of the world or be troubled by them. 01:11:59.890 --> 01:12:03.860 align:middle line:84% I plead with you to set aside worldly influences 01:12:03.860 --> 01:12:06.860 align:middle line:84% and pressures and seek spirituality 01:12:06.860 --> 01:12:08.310 align:middle line:90% in your daily life. 01:12:08.310 --> 01:12:12.670 align:middle line:84% Love what the Lord loves--which includes His commandments, 01:12:12.670 --> 01:12:16.450 align:middle line:84% His holy houses, our sacred covenants with Him, 01:12:16.450 --> 01:12:20.510 align:middle line:84% the sacrament each Sabbath day, our communication through 01:12:20.510 --> 01:12:25.420 align:middle line:84% prayer--and you will not be troubled. 01:12:25.420 --> 01:12:29.260 align:middle line:84% The last point: trust the Lord and His promises. 01:12:29.260 --> 01:12:33.010 align:middle line:84% I know that all His promises will be fulfilled. 01:12:33.010 --> 01:12:36.630 align:middle line:84% I know it as firmly as I stand here before you 01:12:36.630 --> 01:12:38.870 align:middle line:90% in this sacred meeting. 01:12:38.870 --> 01:12:43.110 align:middle line:84% The Lord has revealed: "For they that are wise and have received 01:12:43.110 --> 01:12:47.200 align:middle line:84% the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, 01:12:47.200 --> 01:12:50.780 align:middle line:84% and have not been deceived--verily I say unto 01:12:50.780 --> 01:12:55.400 align:middle line:84% you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, 01:12:55.400 --> 01:12:59.420 align:middle line:90% but shall abide the day." 01:12:59.420 --> 01:13:01.410 align:middle line:84% That is why we should not be troubled 01:13:01.410 --> 01:13:04.070 align:middle line:84% by the turmoil of today, by those 01:13:04.070 --> 01:13:06.160 align:middle line:84% in the great and spacious building, 01:13:06.160 --> 01:13:09.070 align:middle line:84% by those who scoff at honest effort 01:13:09.070 --> 01:13:13.900 align:middle line:84% and dedicated service to the Lord Jesus Christ. 01:13:13.900 --> 01:13:18.430 align:middle line:84% Optimism, courage, even charity come from a heart 01:13:18.430 --> 01:13:22.290 align:middle line:84% not burdened by troubles or turmoil. 01:13:22.290 --> 01:13:26.850 align:middle line:84% President Nelson, who is "optimistic about the future," 01:13:26.850 --> 01:13:29.700 align:middle line:84% has reminded us, "If we are to have 01:13:29.700 --> 01:13:33.490 align:middle line:84% any hope of sifting through the myriad of voices 01:13:33.490 --> 01:13:37.320 align:middle line:84% and the philosophies of men that attack truth, 01:13:37.320 --> 01:13:41.710 align:middle line:84% we must learn to receive revelation." 01:13:41.710 --> 01:13:44.250 align:middle line:84% To receive personal revelation, we 01:13:44.250 --> 01:13:47.460 align:middle line:84% must place priority on living the gospel 01:13:47.460 --> 01:13:53.570 align:middle line:84% and encouraging faithfulness and spirituality in others as well 01:13:53.570 --> 01:13:56.460 align:middle line:90% as ourselves. 01:13:56.460 --> 01:14:00.280 align:middle line:84% Spencer W. Kimball was one of the prophets of my youth. 01:14:00.280 --> 01:14:04.430 align:middle line:84% These past few years, after being called as an Apostle, 01:14:04.430 --> 01:14:08.840 align:middle line:84% I have found peace in his first message at general conference 01:14:08.840 --> 01:14:12.060 align:middle line:90% in October 1943. 01:14:12.060 --> 01:14:17.770 align:middle line:84% He was overwhelmed by his call; I know what that feels like. 01:14:17.770 --> 01:14:21.830 align:middle line:84% Elder Kimball said: "I did a great deal 01:14:21.830 --> 01:14:25.200 align:middle line:84% of thinking and praying, and fasting and praying. 01:14:25.200 --> 01:14:27.940 align:middle line:84% There were conflicting thoughts that surged through 01:14:27.940 --> 01:14:32.920 align:middle line:84% my mind--seeming voices saying: 'You can't do the work. 01:14:32.920 --> 01:14:34.560 align:middle line:90% You are not worthy. 01:14:34.560 --> 01:14:38.640 align:middle line:84% You have not the ability'--and always finally came 01:14:38.640 --> 01:14:42.570 align:middle line:84% the triumphant thought: 'You must do the work assigned--you 01:14:42.570 --> 01:14:46.970 align:middle line:84% must make yourself able, worthy, and qualified.' 01:14:46.970 --> 01:14:51.140 align:middle line:90% And the battle raged on." 01:14:51.140 --> 01:14:54.570 align:middle line:84% I take heart from that pure-hearted testimony 01:14:54.570 --> 01:14:57.990 align:middle line:84% of this Apostle who would become the 12th President 01:14:57.990 --> 01:15:00.010 align:middle line:90% of this mighty Church. 01:15:00.010 --> 01:15:06.390 align:middle line:84% He recognized he had to put his fears to "do the work assigned" 01:15:06.390 --> 01:15:10.110 align:middle line:84% and that he had to rely on the Lord for the strength 01:15:10.110 --> 01:15:14.190 align:middle line:84% to make himself "able, worthy, and qualified." 01:15:14.190 --> 01:15:16.270 align:middle line:90% We can too. 01:15:16.270 --> 01:15:20.020 align:middle line:84% The battles will rage on, but we will face them 01:15:20.020 --> 01:15:21.750 align:middle line:90% with the Spirit of the Lord. 01:15:21.750 --> 01:15:25.500 align:middle line:84% We will "be not troubled" because when 01:15:25.500 --> 01:15:29.470 align:middle line:84% we stand with the Lord and stand for His principles 01:15:29.470 --> 01:15:35.980 align:middle line:84% and His eternal plan, we are standing on holy ground. 01:15:35.980 --> 01:15:39.150 align:middle line:84% Now, what about that daughter and son-in-law 01:15:39.150 --> 01:15:44.390 align:middle line:84% who asked the very heartfelt and probing, fear-based question 01:15:44.390 --> 01:15:45.210 align:middle line:90% years ago? 01:15:45.210 --> 01:15:50.410 align:middle line:90% 01:15:50.410 --> 01:15:54.150 align:middle line:84% They seriously considered our conversation that night; 01:15:54.150 --> 01:15:59.440 align:middle line:84% they prayed and fasted and came to their own conclusions. 01:15:59.440 --> 01:16:05.300 align:middle line:84% Happily and joyfully, for them and for us, the grandparents, 01:16:05.300 --> 01:16:09.500 align:middle line:84% they have now been blessed with seven beautiful children 01:16:09.500 --> 01:16:14.260 align:middle line:84% as they go forward in faith and love. 01:16:14.260 --> 01:16:16.860 align:middle line:90% 01:16:16.860 --> 01:16:18.890 align:middle line:84% Take heart, brothers and sisters. 01:16:18.890 --> 01:16:23.550 align:middle line:84% Yes, we live in perilous times, but as we stay on the covenant 01:16:23.550 --> 01:16:27.050 align:middle line:90% path, we need not fear. 01:16:27.050 --> 01:16:30.120 align:middle line:84% I bless you that as you do so, you 01:16:30.120 --> 01:16:33.090 align:middle line:84% will not be troubled by the times in which we live 01:16:33.090 --> 01:16:36.110 align:middle line:84% or the troubles that come your way. 01:16:36.110 --> 01:16:40.060 align:middle line:84% I bless you to choose to stand in holy places 01:16:40.060 --> 01:16:42.060 align:middle line:90% and be not moved. 01:16:42.060 --> 01:16:46.580 align:middle line:84% I bless you to believe in the promises of Jesus Christ, 01:16:46.580 --> 01:16:51.720 align:middle line:84% that He lives, He is watching over us, caring for us, 01:16:51.720 --> 01:16:53.910 align:middle line:90% and standing by us. 01:16:53.910 --> 01:16:57.985 align:middle line:84% In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, amen. 01:16:57.985 --> 01:17:05.250 align:middle line:90% 01:17:05.250 --> 01:17:09.590 align:middle line:84% A rope is an essential tool with which all of us are familiar. 01:17:09.590 --> 01:17:14.000 align:middle line:84% Ropes are made from strands of fabric, plants, wire, 01:17:14.000 --> 01:17:18.010 align:middle line:84% or other materials that are each individually twisted 01:17:18.010 --> 01:17:19.670 align:middle line:90% or braided together. 01:17:19.670 --> 01:17:24.420 align:middle line:84% Interestingly, substances that may be quite unexceptional 01:17:24.420 --> 01:17:28.580 align:middle line:84% can be woven together and become exceptionally strong. 01:17:28.580 --> 01:17:34.170 align:middle line:84% Thus, effectively connecting and binding ordinary materials 01:17:34.170 --> 01:17:38.010 align:middle line:84% can produce an extraordinary tool. 01:17:38.010 --> 01:17:40.120 align:middle line:84% Just as a rope obtains its strength 01:17:40.120 --> 01:17:43.500 align:middle line:84% from many intertwined individual strands, 01:17:43.500 --> 01:17:47.110 align:middle line:84% so the gospel of Jesus Christ provides the greatest 01:17:47.110 --> 01:17:51.590 align:middle line:84% perspective of truth and offers the richest blessings 01:17:51.590 --> 01:17:53.740 align:middle line:84% as we heed the admonition of Paul 01:17:53.740 --> 01:17:58.190 align:middle line:84% to "gather together in one all things in Christ, 01:17:58.190 --> 01:18:01.730 align:middle line:84% both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; 01:18:01.730 --> 01:18:04.470 align:middle line:90% even in him." 01:18:04.470 --> 01:18:07.680 align:middle line:84% Importantly, this vital gathering of truth 01:18:07.680 --> 01:18:11.700 align:middle line:84% is centered in and focused upon the Lord Jesus Christ 01:18:11.700 --> 01:18:17.840 align:middle line:84% because He is "the way, the truth, and the life." 01:18:17.840 --> 01:18:20.510 align:middle line:84% I pray that the Holy Ghost will enlighten each of us 01:18:20.510 --> 01:18:25.430 align:middle line:84% as we consider how the principle of gathering together in one 01:18:25.430 --> 01:18:30.070 align:middle line:84% all things in Christ applies in practical ways to learning 01:18:30.070 --> 01:18:35.740 align:middle line:84% and living His restored gospel in our daily lives. 01:18:35.740 --> 01:18:39.880 align:middle line:84% We live in a remarkable and revelatory season 01:18:39.880 --> 01:18:43.410 align:middle line:84% of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. 01:18:43.410 --> 01:18:46.580 align:middle line:84% The historic adjustments announced today 01:18:46.580 --> 01:18:49.980 align:middle line:84% have only one overarching purpose: 01:18:49.980 --> 01:18:53.840 align:middle line:84% to strengthen faith in Heavenly Father and His plan 01:18:53.840 --> 01:18:57.990 align:middle line:84% and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement. 01:18:57.990 --> 01:19:03.760 align:middle line:84% The Sunday meeting schedule was not simply shortened. 01:19:03.760 --> 01:19:07.320 align:middle line:84% Rather, we now have increased opportunities 01:19:07.320 --> 01:19:11.580 align:middle line:84% and responsibilities as individuals and families 01:19:11.580 --> 01:19:15.710 align:middle line:84% to use our time for enhancing the Sabbath as a delight 01:19:15.710 --> 01:19:19.080 align:middle line:90% at home and at Church. 01:19:19.080 --> 01:19:23.500 align:middle line:84% Last April, the organizational structure of priesthood quorums 01:19:23.500 --> 01:19:26.110 align:middle line:90% was not merely changed. 01:19:26.110 --> 01:19:28.760 align:middle line:84% Rather, emphasis and strength were 01:19:28.760 --> 01:19:33.150 align:middle line:84% given to a higher and holier way of ministering to our brothers 01:19:33.150 --> 01:19:35.220 align:middle line:90% and sisters. 01:19:35.220 --> 01:19:37.440 align:middle line:84% Much like the braided strands of a rope 01:19:37.440 --> 01:19:40.820 align:middle line:84% produce a powerful and durable tool, 01:19:40.820 --> 01:19:43.900 align:middle line:84% all of these interrelated actions 01:19:43.900 --> 01:19:47.550 align:middle line:84% are part of a unified effort to better align 01:19:47.550 --> 01:19:51.900 align:middle line:84% the focus, resources, and work of the Savior's restored Church 01:19:51.900 --> 01:19:57.020 align:middle line:84% with its fundamental mission: to assist God in His work 01:19:57.020 --> 01:20:02.330 align:middle line:84% to bring to pass the salvation and exaltation of His children. 01:20:02.330 --> 01:20:08.300 align:middle line:84% Please do not focus primarily upon the logistical aspects 01:20:08.300 --> 01:20:10.300 align:middle line:90% of what has been announced. 01:20:10.300 --> 01:20:13.530 align:middle line:84% We must not allow procedural details 01:20:13.530 --> 01:20:18.600 align:middle line:84% to obscure the overarching spiritual reasons these changes 01:20:18.600 --> 01:20:21.710 align:middle line:90% now are being made. 01:20:21.710 --> 01:20:24.660 align:middle line:84% Our desire is that faith in the Father's plan 01:20:24.660 --> 01:20:27.470 align:middle line:84% and in the Savior's redeeming mission 01:20:27.470 --> 01:20:31.610 align:middle line:84% might increase in the earth and that God's everlasting covenant 01:20:31.610 --> 01:20:33.360 align:middle line:90% might be established. 01:20:33.360 --> 01:20:36.810 align:middle line:84% Our only objectives are to facilitate 01:20:36.810 --> 01:20:39.460 align:middle line:84% continuing conversion to the Lord 01:20:39.460 --> 01:20:44.140 align:middle line:84% and to love more completely and serve more effectively 01:20:44.140 --> 01:20:47.500 align:middle line:90% our brothers and sisters. 01:20:47.500 --> 01:20:49.160 align:middle line:84% Sometimes as members of the Church 01:20:49.160 --> 01:20:53.680 align:middle line:84% we segment, separate, and apply the gospel in our lives 01:20:53.680 --> 01:20:58.250 align:middle line:84% by creating lengthy checklists of individual topics to study 01:20:58.250 --> 01:21:00.860 align:middle line:90% and tasks to accomplish. 01:21:00.860 --> 01:21:05.780 align:middle line:84% But such an approach potentially can constrain our understanding 01:21:05.780 --> 01:21:07.120 align:middle line:90% and vision. 01:21:07.120 --> 01:21:11.010 align:middle line:84% We must be careful because pharisaical focus 01:21:11.010 --> 01:21:14.750 align:middle line:84% upon checklists can divert us from drawing closer 01:21:14.750 --> 01:21:16.890 align:middle line:90% to the Lord. 01:21:16.890 --> 01:21:21.550 align:middle line:84% The purpose and purification, the happiness and joy, 01:21:21.550 --> 01:21:25.240 align:middle line:84% and the continuing conversion and protection that come from 01:21:25.240 --> 01:21:29.780 align:middle line:84% "yielding [our] hearts unto God" and "[receiving] his image 01:21:29.780 --> 01:21:35.050 align:middle line:84% in [our] countenances" cannot be obtained merely by performing 01:21:35.050 --> 01:21:37.730 align:middle line:84% and checking off all the spiritual things we are 01:21:37.730 --> 01:21:39.270 align:middle line:90% supposed to do. 01:21:39.270 --> 01:21:42.360 align:middle line:84% Rather, the power of the Savior's gospel 01:21:42.360 --> 01:21:48.200 align:middle line:84% to transform and bless us flows from discerning and applying 01:21:48.200 --> 01:21:52.340 align:middle line:84% the interrelatedness of its doctrine, principles, 01:21:52.340 --> 01:21:54.130 align:middle line:90% and practices. 01:21:54.130 --> 01:21:58.730 align:middle line:84% Only as we gather together in one all things in Christ, 01:21:58.730 --> 01:22:05.420 align:middle line:84% with firm focus upon Him, can gospel truths synergistically 01:22:05.420 --> 01:22:10.390 align:middle line:84% enable us to become what God desires us to become and endure 01:22:10.390 --> 01:22:14.280 align:middle line:90% valiantly to the end. 01:22:14.280 --> 01:22:17.530 align:middle line:84% The gospel of Jesus Christ is a magnificent tapestry 01:22:17.530 --> 01:22:21.350 align:middle line:84% of truth "fitly framed" and woven together. 01:22:21.350 --> 01:22:25.570 align:middle line:84% As we learn and link together revealed gospel truths, 01:22:25.570 --> 01:22:28.700 align:middle line:84% we are blessed to receive precious perspective 01:22:28.700 --> 01:22:33.280 align:middle line:84% and increased spiritual capacity through eyes 01:22:33.280 --> 01:22:37.570 align:middle line:84% that can see the Lord's influence in our lives and ears 01:22:37.570 --> 01:22:39.510 align:middle line:90% that can hear His voice. 01:22:39.510 --> 01:22:43.180 align:middle line:84% And the principle of gathering together in one--even 01:22:43.180 --> 01:22:47.840 align:middle line:84% in Him--can assist us in changing the traditional 01:22:47.840 --> 01:22:54.520 align:middle line:84% checklists into a unified, integrated, and complete whole. 01:22:54.520 --> 01:22:58.800 align:middle line:84% Let me provide both a doctrinal and a Church example 01:22:58.800 --> 01:23:01.380 align:middle line:90% of what I am suggesting. 01:23:01.380 --> 01:23:02.950 align:middle line:90% Example number 1. 01:23:02.950 --> 01:23:05.840 align:middle line:84% The fourth article of faith is one 01:23:05.840 --> 01:23:10.320 align:middle line:84% of the greatest illustrations of gathering together in one 01:23:10.320 --> 01:23:14.090 align:middle line:84% all things in Christ: "We believe 01:23:14.090 --> 01:23:17.320 align:middle line:84% that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel 01:23:17.320 --> 01:23:20.740 align:middle line:84% are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; 01:23:20.740 --> 01:23:24.750 align:middle line:84% second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion 01:23:24.750 --> 01:23:27.210 align:middle line:84% for the remission of sins; fourth, 01:23:27.210 --> 01:23:31.610 align:middle line:84% Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost." 01:23:31.610 --> 01:23:38.780 align:middle line:84% True faith is focused in and on the Lord Jesus Christ--in Him 01:23:38.780 --> 01:23:44.620 align:middle line:84% as the Divine and Only Begotten Son of the Father and on Him 01:23:44.620 --> 01:23:47.920 align:middle line:84% and the redemptive mission He fulfilled. 01:23:47.920 --> 01:23:50.990 align:middle line:84% "For he hath answered the ends of the law, 01:23:50.990 --> 01:23:54.230 align:middle line:84% and he claimeth all those who have faith in him; 01:23:54.230 --> 01:23:56.880 align:middle line:84% and they who have faith in him will cleave 01:23:56.880 --> 01:23:59.950 align:middle line:84% unto every good thing; wherefore he 01:23:59.950 --> 01:24:03.260 align:middle line:84% advocateth the cause of the children of men." 01:24:03.260 --> 01:24:09.170 align:middle line:84% Exercising faith in Christ is trusting and placing 01:24:09.170 --> 01:24:13.390 align:middle line:84% our confidence in Him as our Savior, on His name, 01:24:13.390 --> 01:24:16.540 align:middle line:90% and in His promises. 01:24:16.540 --> 01:24:18.370 align:middle line:84% The first and natural consequence 01:24:18.370 --> 01:24:21.990 align:middle line:84% of trusting in the Savior is repenting and turning 01:24:21.990 --> 01:24:23.410 align:middle line:90% away from evil. 01:24:23.410 --> 01:24:27.190 align:middle line:84% As we exercise faith in and on the Lord, 01:24:27.190 --> 01:24:32.360 align:middle line:84% we naturally turn toward, come unto, and depend upon Him. 01:24:32.360 --> 01:24:40.240 align:middle line:84% Thus, repentance is trusting in and relying upon the Redeemer 01:24:40.240 --> 01:24:43.640 align:middle line:84% to do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. 01:24:43.640 --> 01:24:47.680 align:middle line:84% Each of us must "[rely] wholly upon the merits of him who is 01:24:47.680 --> 01:24:51.910 align:middle line:84% mighty to save" because only "through the merits, and mercy, 01:24:51.910 --> 01:24:55.830 align:middle line:84% and grace of the Holy Messiah" can we become new creatures 01:24:55.830 --> 01:25:00.720 align:middle line:84% in Christ and ultimately return to and dwell in the presence 01:25:00.720 --> 01:25:03.140 align:middle line:90% of God. 01:25:03.140 --> 01:25:04.900 align:middle line:84% The ordinance of baptism by immersion 01:25:04.900 --> 01:25:10.350 align:middle line:84% for the remission of sins requires us to trust in Him, 01:25:10.350 --> 01:25:14.750 align:middle line:90% rely upon Him, and follow Him. 01:25:14.750 --> 01:25:17.480 align:middle line:90% Nephi proclaimed: 01:25:17.480 --> 01:25:19.810 align:middle line:84% "I know that if ye shall follow the Son, 01:25:19.810 --> 01:25:24.190 align:middle line:84% with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no 01:25:24.190 --> 01:25:27.850 align:middle line:84% deception before God, but with real intent, 01:25:27.850 --> 01:25:32.100 align:middle line:84% repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that 01:25:32.100 --> 01:25:34.910 align:middle line:84% ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, 01:25:34.910 --> 01:25:41.400 align:middle line:84% by baptism--yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down 01:25:41.400 --> 01:25:45.530 align:middle line:84% into the water, according to his word, behold, 01:25:45.530 --> 01:25:48.790 align:middle line:84% then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, 01:25:48.790 --> 01:25:51.530 align:middle line:84% then cometh the baptism of fire and ... 01:25:51.530 --> 01:25:54.380 align:middle line:90% the Holy Ghost." 01:25:54.380 --> 01:25:55.940 align:middle line:84% The ordinance of laying on of hands 01:25:55.940 --> 01:26:00.950 align:middle line:84% for the gift of the Holy Ghost requires us to trust in Him, 01:26:00.950 --> 01:26:07.420 align:middle line:84% rely upon Him, follow Him, and press forward 01:26:07.420 --> 01:26:11.430 align:middle line:84% in Him with the assistance of His Holy Spirit. 01:26:11.430 --> 01:26:14.650 align:middle line:90% As Nephi declared, "And now ... 01:26:14.650 --> 01:26:18.320 align:middle line:84% I know by this that unless a man shall endure to the end, 01:26:18.320 --> 01:26:21.950 align:middle line:84% in following the example of the Son of the living God, 01:26:21.950 --> 01:26:25.640 align:middle line:90% he cannot be saved." 01:26:25.640 --> 01:26:28.230 align:middle line:84% The fourth article of faith does not simply 01:26:28.230 --> 01:26:31.800 align:middle line:84% identify the fundamental principles and ordinances 01:26:31.800 --> 01:26:33.700 align:middle line:90% of the restored gospel. 01:26:33.700 --> 01:26:39.020 align:middle line:84% Rather, this inspired statement of belief gathers together 01:26:39.020 --> 01:26:44.570 align:middle line:84% in one all things in Christ: trusting in and on Him, 01:26:44.570 --> 01:26:51.090 align:middle line:84% relying upon Him, following Him, and pressing forward with 01:26:51.090 --> 01:26:55.770 align:middle line:90% Him--even in Him. 01:26:55.770 --> 01:26:57.240 align:middle line:90% Example number 2. 01:26:57.240 --> 01:27:00.870 align:middle line:84% I now want to describe how all Church programs 01:27:00.870 --> 01:27:06.380 align:middle line:84% and initiatives are gathered together in one in Christ. 01:27:06.380 --> 01:27:10.030 align:middle line:84% Many additional illustrations could be presented; 01:27:10.030 --> 01:27:14.140 align:middle line:90% I will use only a selected few. 01:27:14.140 --> 01:27:17.660 align:middle line:84% In 1978, President Spencer W. Kimball 01:27:17.660 --> 01:27:21.290 align:middle line:84% instructed members of the Church to build up the strength 01:27:21.290 --> 01:27:23.830 align:middle line:90% of Zion throughout the world. 01:27:23.830 --> 01:27:28.110 align:middle line:84% He counseled the Saints to remain in their native lands 01:27:28.110 --> 01:27:32.260 align:middle line:84% and establish strong stakes by gathering the family of God 01:27:32.260 --> 01:27:35.370 align:middle line:84% and teaching them the ways of the Lord. 01:27:35.370 --> 01:27:38.020 align:middle line:84% He further indicated that more temples 01:27:38.020 --> 01:27:39.990 align:middle line:84% would be built and promised blessings 01:27:39.990 --> 01:27:44.570 align:middle line:84% for the Saints wherever they lived in the world. 01:27:44.570 --> 01:27:46.300 align:middle line:84% As the number of stakes increased, 01:27:46.300 --> 01:27:49.020 align:middle line:84% the need was intensified for member homes 01:27:49.020 --> 01:27:52.220 align:middle line:84% to "become [places] where family members [loved] 01:27:52.220 --> 01:27:55.130 align:middle line:84% to be, where they [could] enrich their lives 01:27:55.130 --> 01:27:58.190 align:middle line:84% and find mutual love, support, appreciation, 01:27:58.190 --> 01:27:59.950 align:middle line:90% and encouragement." 01:27:59.950 --> 01:28:04.500 align:middle line:84% Consequently, in 1980, Sunday meetings 01:28:04.500 --> 01:28:07.720 align:middle line:84% were consolidated into a three-hour block 01:28:07.720 --> 01:28:10.720 align:middle line:84% to "reemphasize personal and family 01:28:10.720 --> 01:28:13.390 align:middle line:84% responsibility for learning, living, 01:28:13.390 --> 01:28:15.570 align:middle line:90% and teaching the gospel." 01:28:15.570 --> 01:28:18.580 align:middle line:84% This emphasis on family and the home 01:28:18.580 --> 01:28:21.530 align:middle line:84% was again affirmed in "The Family: A Proclamation 01:28:21.530 --> 01:28:24.300 align:middle line:84% to the World," introduced by President Gordon 01:28:24.300 --> 01:28:28.990 align:middle line:90% B. Hinckley in 1995. 01:28:28.990 --> 01:28:31.750 align:middle line:84% In April of 1998, President Hinckley 01:28:31.750 --> 01:28:35.450 align:middle line:84% announced the construction of many more small temples, 01:28:35.450 --> 01:28:38.980 align:middle line:84% thereby bringing the sacred ordinances of the Lord's house 01:28:38.980 --> 01:28:42.420 align:middle line:84% closer to Latter-day Saint individuals and families 01:28:42.420 --> 01:28:44.220 align:middle line:90% throughout the world. 01:28:44.220 --> 01:28:47.950 align:middle line:84% And these enhanced opportunities for spiritual growth 01:28:47.950 --> 01:28:50.440 align:middle line:84% and development were complemented 01:28:50.440 --> 01:28:54.600 align:middle line:84% by related increases in temporal self-reliance 01:28:54.600 --> 01:28:57.860 align:middle line:84% through the introduction of the Perpetual Education Fund 01:28:57.860 --> 01:29:00.920 align:middle line:90% in 2001. 01:29:00.920 --> 01:29:03.800 align:middle line:84% During his administration, President Thomas S. Monson 01:29:03.800 --> 01:29:07.760 align:middle line:84% repeatedly exhorted the Saints to go "to the rescue" 01:29:07.760 --> 01:29:11.120 align:middle line:84% and emphasized caring for the poor and needy 01:29:11.120 --> 01:29:15.350 align:middle line:84% as one of the Church's divinely appointed responsibilities. 01:29:15.350 --> 01:29:19.470 align:middle line:84% Continuing the emphasis on temporal preparation, 01:29:19.470 --> 01:29:21.900 align:middle line:84% the Self-Reliance Services initiative 01:29:21.900 --> 01:29:26.140 align:middle line:90% was implemented in 2012. 01:29:26.140 --> 01:29:28.570 align:middle line:84% Over the past several years, essential principles 01:29:28.570 --> 01:29:32.350 align:middle line:84% about making the Sabbath day a delight in the home 01:29:32.350 --> 01:29:36.410 align:middle line:84% and at Church have been emphasized and reinforced, 01:29:36.410 --> 01:29:39.100 align:middle line:84% thus preparing us for the Sunday meeting 01:29:39.100 --> 01:29:43.880 align:middle line:84% schedule announced in this session of general conference. 01:29:43.880 --> 01:29:47.200 align:middle line:84% And six months ago, Melchizedek Priesthood quorums 01:29:47.200 --> 01:29:49.960 align:middle line:84% were strengthened and aligned more effectively 01:29:49.960 --> 01:29:54.520 align:middle line:84% with the auxiliaries to accomplish a higher and holier 01:29:54.520 --> 01:29:55.985 align:middle line:90% approach to ministering. 01:29:55.985 --> 01:29:59.800 align:middle line:90% 01:29:59.800 --> 01:30:02.610 align:middle line:84% Brothers and sisters, I believe that the sequence and timing 01:30:02.610 --> 01:30:05.440 align:middle line:84% of these actions over many decades 01:30:05.440 --> 01:30:11.730 align:middle line:84% can help us to see one united and comprehensive work and not 01:30:11.730 --> 01:30:16.660 align:middle line:84% just a series of independent and discrete initiatives. 01:30:16.660 --> 01:30:20.160 align:middle line:84% "God has revealed a pattern of spiritual progress 01:30:20.160 --> 01:30:24.300 align:middle line:84% for individuals and families through ordinances, teaching, 01:30:24.300 --> 01:30:28.060 align:middle line:84% programs, and activities that are home centered 01:30:28.060 --> 01:30:30.400 align:middle line:90% and Church supported. 01:30:30.400 --> 01:30:32.920 align:middle line:84% Church organizations and programs 01:30:32.920 --> 01:30:35.700 align:middle line:84% exist to bless individuals and families 01:30:35.700 --> 01:30:40.380 align:middle line:90% and are not ends in themselves." 01:30:40.380 --> 01:30:43.320 align:middle line:84% I pray we can recognize the Lord's work 01:30:43.320 --> 01:30:50.200 align:middle line:84% as one great worldwide work that is becoming ever more home 01:30:50.200 --> 01:30:52.360 align:middle line:90% centered and Church supported. 01:30:52.360 --> 01:30:56.200 align:middle line:84% I know and I testify that the Lord is revealing 01:30:56.200 --> 01:31:00.530 align:middle line:84% and will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining 01:31:00.530 --> 01:31:03.880 align:middle line:90% to the kingdom of God. 01:31:03.880 --> 01:31:06.820 align:middle line:84% I began my message by highlighting the strength that 01:31:06.820 --> 01:31:11.170 align:middle line:84% is created as individual strands of material are twisted 01:31:11.170 --> 01:31:13.780 align:middle line:90% or braided together into a rope. 01:31:13.780 --> 01:31:19.970 align:middle line:84% In a similar way, I promise that increased perspective, purpose, 01:31:19.970 --> 01:31:24.210 align:middle line:84% and power will be evident in our learning and living 01:31:24.210 --> 01:31:29.580 align:middle line:84% of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as we strive to gather 01:31:29.580 --> 01:31:37.710 align:middle line:84% together in one all things in Christ--even in Him. 01:31:37.710 --> 01:31:41.300 align:middle line:84% All opportunities and blessings of eternal consequence 01:31:41.300 --> 01:31:46.190 align:middle line:84% originate in, are possible and have purpose because of, 01:31:46.190 --> 01:31:49.650 align:middle line:84% and endure through the Lord Jesus Christ. 01:31:49.650 --> 01:31:55.000 align:middle line:84% As Alma testified: "There is no other way or means 01:31:55.000 --> 01:31:59.900 align:middle line:84% whereby man can be saved, only in and through Christ. 01:31:59.900 --> 01:32:07.030 align:middle line:84% Behold, he is the life and the light of the world." 01:32:07.030 --> 01:32:13.610 align:middle line:84% I joyfully declare my witness of the divinity and living reality 01:32:13.610 --> 01:32:20.010 align:middle line:84% of the Eternal Father and of His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. 01:32:20.010 --> 01:32:23.730 align:middle line:90% In our Savior, we find joy. 01:32:23.730 --> 01:32:29.140 align:middle line:84% And in Him we find the assurance of "peace in this world, 01:32:29.140 --> 01:32:32.480 align:middle line:84% and eternal life in the world to come." 01:32:32.480 --> 01:32:37.545 align:middle line:84% I so testify in the sacred name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen. 01:32:37.545 --> 01:32:46.000 align:middle line:90% 01:32:46.000 --> 01:32:48.620 align:middle line:84% We thank all who have spoken to us, 01:32:48.620 --> 01:32:53.230 align:middle line:84% and express gratitude for the beautiful music that 01:32:53.230 --> 01:32:55.830 align:middle line:90% has been provided this morning. 01:32:55.830 --> 01:33:01.580 align:middle line:84% The choir will now favor us with "I Will Follow God's Plan." 01:33:01.580 --> 01:33:04.860 align:middle line:84% Our concluding speaker for this session 01:33:04.860 --> 01:33:09.540 align:middle line:84% will be President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor 01:33:09.540 --> 01:33:11.560 align:middle line:90% in the First Presidency. 01:33:11.560 --> 01:33:16.470 align:middle line:84% Following his remarks, the choir will close this meeting 01:33:16.470 --> 01:33:19.940 align:middle line:84% by singing "Come, Come, Ye Saints." 01:33:19.940 --> 01:33:22.910 align:middle line:84% The benediction will then be offered 01:33:22.910 --> 01:33:27.450 align:middle line:84% by Elder Adilson de Paula Parrella of the Seventy. 01:33:27.450 --> 01:33:35.814 align:middle line:90% 01:33:35.814 --> 01:36:00.416 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "I WILL FOLLOW GOD'S PLAN"] 01:36:00.416 --> 01:36:08.850 align:middle line:90% 01:36:08.850 --> 01:36:12.980 align:middle line:84% Modern revelation defines truth as a "knowledge of things 01:36:12.980 --> 01:36:17.240 align:middle line:84% as they are, as they were, and as they are to come." 01:36:17.240 --> 01:36:20.230 align:middle line:84% That is a perfect definition for the plan 01:36:20.230 --> 01:36:26.150 align:middle line:84% of salvation and "The Family: A Proclamation to the World." 01:36:26.150 --> 01:36:29.910 align:middle line:84% We live in a time of greatly expanded and disseminated 01:36:29.910 --> 01:36:31.240 align:middle line:90% information. 01:36:31.240 --> 01:36:34.850 align:middle line:84% But not all this information is true. 01:36:34.850 --> 01:36:38.590 align:middle line:84% We need to be cautious as we seek truth 01:36:38.590 --> 01:36:42.160 align:middle line:84% and choose sources for that search. 01:36:42.160 --> 01:36:47.050 align:middle line:84% We should not consider secular prominence or authority 01:36:47.050 --> 01:36:50.170 align:middle line:90% as qualified sources of truth. 01:36:50.170 --> 01:36:52.850 align:middle line:84% We should be cautious about relying 01:36:52.850 --> 01:36:55.980 align:middle line:84% on information or advice offered by entertainment 01:36:55.980 --> 01:37:01.730 align:middle line:84% stars, prominent athletes, or anonymous internet sources. 01:37:01.730 --> 01:37:04.750 align:middle line:84% Expertise in one field should not 01:37:04.750 --> 01:37:10.970 align:middle line:84% be taken as expertise on truth in other subjects. 01:37:10.970 --> 01:37:14.210 align:middle line:84% We should also be cautious about the motivation of the one who 01:37:14.210 --> 01:37:16.070 align:middle line:90% provides information. 01:37:16.070 --> 01:37:20.880 align:middle line:84% That is why the scriptures warn us against priestcraft. 01:37:20.880 --> 01:37:25.160 align:middle line:84% If the source is anonymous or unknown, 01:37:25.160 --> 01:37:29.960 align:middle line:84% the information may also be suspect. 01:37:29.960 --> 01:37:33.650 align:middle line:84% Our personal decisions should be based on information 01:37:33.650 --> 01:37:38.350 align:middle line:84% from sources that are qualified on the subject and free 01:37:38.350 --> 01:37:40.030 align:middle line:90% from selfish motivations. 01:37:40.030 --> 01:37:42.760 align:middle line:90% 01:37:42.760 --> 01:37:45.420 align:middle line:84% When we seek the truth about religion, 01:37:45.420 --> 01:37:50.200 align:middle line:84% we should use spiritual methods appropriate for that search: 01:37:50.200 --> 01:37:54.000 align:middle line:84% prayer, the witness of the Holy Ghost, 01:37:54.000 --> 01:37:58.330 align:middle line:84% and study of the scriptures and the words of modern prophets. 01:37:58.330 --> 01:38:01.070 align:middle line:84% I am always sad when I hear of one 01:38:01.070 --> 01:38:05.700 align:middle line:84% who reports a loss of religious faith because of secular 01:38:05.700 --> 01:38:06.900 align:middle line:90% teachings. 01:38:06.900 --> 01:38:10.110 align:middle line:84% Those who once had spiritual vision 01:38:10.110 --> 01:38:14.550 align:middle line:84% can suffer from self-inflicted spiritual blindness. 01:38:14.550 --> 01:38:17.520 align:middle line:84% As President Henry B. Eyring said, 01:38:17.520 --> 01:38:21.840 align:middle line:84% "Their problem does not lie in what they think they see; 01:38:21.840 --> 01:38:24.225 align:middle line:84% it lies in what they cannot see." 01:38:24.225 --> 01:38:26.940 align:middle line:90% 01:38:26.940 --> 01:38:29.090 align:middle line:84% The methods of science lead us to what 01:38:29.090 --> 01:38:31.460 align:middle line:90% we call scientific truth. 01:38:31.460 --> 01:38:35.980 align:middle line:84% But "scientific truth" is not the whole of life. 01:38:35.980 --> 01:38:41.170 align:middle line:84% Those who do not learn "by study and also by faith" 01:38:41.170 --> 01:38:43.540 align:middle line:84% limit their understanding of truth 01:38:43.540 --> 01:38:47.210 align:middle line:84% to what they can verify by scientific means. 01:38:47.210 --> 01:38:51.930 align:middle line:84% That puts artificial limits on their pursuit of truth. 01:38:51.930 --> 01:38:56.890 align:middle line:84% President James E. Faust said: "Those who have been [baptized] 01:38:56.890 --> 01:39:01.930 align:middle line:84% put their eternal souls at risk by carelessly pursuing only 01:39:01.930 --> 01:39:05.440 align:middle line:90% the secular source of learning. 01:39:05.440 --> 01:39:09.220 align:middle line:84% We believe that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 01:39:09.220 --> 01:39:13.690 align:middle line:84% Saints has the fulness of the gospel of Christ, which 01:39:13.690 --> 01:39:18.165 align:middle line:84% gospel is the essence of truth and eternal enlightenment." 01:39:18.165 --> 01:39:21.900 align:middle line:90% 01:39:21.900 --> 01:39:25.350 align:middle line:84% We find true and enduring joy by coming to know 01:39:25.350 --> 01:39:28.450 align:middle line:84% and acting upon the truth about who we 01:39:28.450 --> 01:39:32.620 align:middle line:84% are, the meaning of mortal life, and where 01:39:32.620 --> 01:39:34.740 align:middle line:90% we are going when we die. 01:39:34.740 --> 01:39:39.840 align:middle line:84% Those truths cannot be learned by scientific or secular 01:39:39.840 --> 01:39:42.560 align:middle line:90% methods. 01:39:42.560 --> 01:39:47.050 align:middle line:84% I will now speak of restored gospel truths that 01:39:47.050 --> 01:39:50.220 align:middle line:84% are fundamental to the doctrine of The Church of Jesus 01:39:50.220 --> 01:39:52.320 align:middle line:90% Christ of Latter-day Saints. 01:39:52.320 --> 01:39:55.740 align:middle line:84% Please consider these truths carefully. 01:39:55.740 --> 01:40:00.230 align:middle line:84% They explain much about our doctrine and practices, perhaps 01:40:00.230 --> 01:40:05.770 align:middle line:84% including some things not yet understood. 01:40:05.770 --> 01:40:08.360 align:middle line:84% There is a God, who is the loving 01:40:08.360 --> 01:40:14.270 align:middle line:84% Father of the spirits of all who have ever lived or will live. 01:40:14.270 --> 01:40:16.590 align:middle line:90% Gender is eternal. 01:40:16.590 --> 01:40:19.270 align:middle line:84% Before we were born on this earth, 01:40:19.270 --> 01:40:26.810 align:middle line:84% we all lived as male and female spirits in the presence of God. 01:40:26.810 --> 01:40:28.740 align:middle line:84% We have just heard the Tabernacle 01:40:28.740 --> 01:40:34.680 align:middle line:84% Choir at Temple Square sing "I Will Follow God's Plan." 01:40:34.680 --> 01:40:37.850 align:middle line:84% That is the plan God established so 01:40:37.850 --> 01:40:42.410 align:middle line:84% that all of His spirit children could progress eternally. 01:40:42.410 --> 01:40:46.790 align:middle line:84% That plan is vital to each of us. 01:40:46.790 --> 01:40:50.330 align:middle line:84% Under that plan, God created this earth as a place 01:40:50.330 --> 01:40:53.010 align:middle line:84% where His beloved spirit children 01:40:53.010 --> 01:40:57.530 align:middle line:84% could be born into mortality to receive a physical body 01:40:57.530 --> 01:41:01.630 align:middle line:84% and to have the opportunity for eternal progress 01:41:01.630 --> 01:41:05.530 align:middle line:90% by making righteous choices. 01:41:05.530 --> 01:41:08.520 align:middle line:84% To be meaningful, mortal choices had 01:41:08.520 --> 01:41:13.910 align:middle line:84% to be made between contesting forces of good and evil. 01:41:13.910 --> 01:41:18.860 align:middle line:84% There had to be opposition, and therefore an adversary, 01:41:18.860 --> 01:41:22.080 align:middle line:84% who was cast out because of rebellion, 01:41:22.080 --> 01:41:24.960 align:middle line:84% was allowed to tempt God's children 01:41:24.960 --> 01:41:29.690 align:middle line:90% to act contrary to God's plan. 01:41:29.690 --> 01:41:32.570 align:middle line:84% The purpose of God's plan was to give His children 01:41:32.570 --> 01:41:35.970 align:middle line:84% the opportunity to choose eternal life. 01:41:35.970 --> 01:41:41.860 align:middle line:84% This could only be accomplished by experience in mortality 01:41:41.860 --> 01:41:49.480 align:middle line:84% and, after death, by postmortal growth in the spirit world. 01:41:49.480 --> 01:41:51.520 align:middle line:84% In the course of mortal life, we would all 01:41:51.520 --> 01:41:56.490 align:middle line:84% be soiled by sin as we yielded to the evil temptations 01:41:56.490 --> 01:42:00.760 align:middle line:84% of the adversary, and we would eventually die. 01:42:00.760 --> 01:42:04.760 align:middle line:84% We accepted those challenges in reliance 01:42:04.760 --> 01:42:08.530 align:middle line:84% upon the plan's assurance that God our Father 01:42:08.530 --> 01:42:11.900 align:middle line:84% would provide a Savior, His Only Begotten 01:42:11.900 --> 01:42:16.680 align:middle line:84% Son, who would rescue us by a universal resurrection 01:42:16.680 --> 01:42:20.030 align:middle line:90% to an embodied life after death. 01:42:20.030 --> 01:42:24.670 align:middle line:84% The Savior would also provide an atonement 01:42:24.670 --> 01:42:27.980 align:middle line:84% to pay the price for all to be cleansed 01:42:27.980 --> 01:42:31.730 align:middle line:84% from sin on the conditions He prescribed. 01:42:31.730 --> 01:42:37.580 align:middle line:84% Those conditions included faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, 01:42:37.580 --> 01:42:41.720 align:middle line:84% the gift of the Holy Ghost, and other ordinances performed 01:42:41.720 --> 01:42:44.200 align:middle line:90% by priesthood authority. 01:42:44.200 --> 01:42:48.820 align:middle line:84% God's great plan of happiness provides a perfect balance 01:42:48.820 --> 01:42:52.610 align:middle line:84% between eternal justice and the mercy 01:42:52.610 --> 01:42:56.390 align:middle line:84% we can obtain through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. 01:42:56.390 --> 01:42:59.860 align:middle line:84% It also enables us to be transformed 01:42:59.860 --> 01:43:04.520 align:middle line:90% into new creatures in Christ. 01:43:04.520 --> 01:43:08.150 align:middle line:84% A loving God reaches out to each of us. 01:43:08.150 --> 01:43:13.040 align:middle line:84% We know that through His love and because of the Atonement 01:43:13.040 --> 01:43:17.730 align:middle line:84% of His Only Begotten Son, "all mankind 01:43:17.730 --> 01:43:22.700 align:middle line:84% may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances 01:43:22.700 --> 01:43:25.850 align:middle line:90% of [His] gospel." 01:43:25.850 --> 01:43:28.490 align:middle line:84% The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 01:43:28.490 --> 01:43:32.200 align:middle line:84% is properly known as a family-centered Church. 01:43:32.200 --> 01:43:35.150 align:middle line:84% But what is not well understood is 01:43:35.150 --> 01:43:39.720 align:middle line:84% that our family-centeredness is focused on more than mortal 01:43:39.720 --> 01:43:41.260 align:middle line:90% relationships. 01:43:41.260 --> 01:43:46.650 align:middle line:84% Eternal relationships are also fundamental to our theology. 01:43:46.650 --> 01:43:50.390 align:middle line:90% "The family is ordained of God." 01:43:50.390 --> 01:43:54.110 align:middle line:84% Under the great plan of our loving Creator, 01:43:54.110 --> 01:43:56.890 align:middle line:84% the mission of His restored Church 01:43:56.890 --> 01:44:01.570 align:middle line:84% is to help the children of God achieve the supernal blessing 01:44:01.570 --> 01:44:06.720 align:middle line:84% of exaltation in the celestial kingdom, which can only 01:44:06.720 --> 01:44:09.580 align:middle line:84% be attained through an eternal marriage 01:44:09.580 --> 01:44:12.310 align:middle line:90% between a man and a woman. 01:44:12.310 --> 01:44:15.950 align:middle line:84% We affirm the Lord's teachings that "gender 01:44:15.950 --> 01:44:20.470 align:middle line:84% is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, 01:44:20.470 --> 01:44:24.100 align:middle line:84% mortal, and eternal identity and purpose" 01:44:24.100 --> 01:44:27.740 align:middle line:84% and that "marriage between man and woman 01:44:27.740 --> 01:44:32.750 align:middle line:84% is essential to His eternal plan." 01:44:32.750 --> 01:44:37.630 align:middle line:84% Finally, God's love is so great that, except for the few who 01:44:37.630 --> 01:44:40.870 align:middle line:84% deliberately become sons of perdition, 01:44:40.870 --> 01:44:46.890 align:middle line:84% He has provided a destiny of glory for all of His children. 01:44:46.890 --> 01:44:53.686 align:middle line:84% "All of His children" includes all who are dead. 01:44:53.686 --> 01:44:56.920 align:middle line:84% We perform ordinances for them by proxy in our temples. 01:44:56.920 --> 01:45:00.170 align:middle line:84% The purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ 01:45:00.170 --> 01:45:03.270 align:middle line:84% is to qualify His children for the highest 01:45:03.270 --> 01:45:08.820 align:middle line:84% degree of glory, which is exaltation or eternal life. 01:45:08.820 --> 01:45:13.580 align:middle line:84% For those who do not desire or qualify for that, 01:45:13.580 --> 01:45:21.060 align:middle line:84% God has provided other, though lesser, kingdoms of glory. 01:45:21.060 --> 01:45:24.680 align:middle line:84% Anyone who understands these eternal truths can understand 01:45:24.680 --> 01:45:28.340 align:middle line:84% why we members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 01:45:28.340 --> 01:45:35.390 align:middle line:84% Saints think as we do and do as we do. 01:45:35.390 --> 01:45:37.470 align:middle line:84% I will now mention some applications 01:45:37.470 --> 01:45:40.550 align:middle line:84% of these eternal truths, which can only be understood 01:45:40.550 --> 01:45:43.030 align:middle line:90% in light of God's plan. 01:45:43.030 --> 01:45:46.820 align:middle line:84% First, we honor individual agency. 01:45:46.820 --> 01:45:50.670 align:middle line:84% Most are aware of the restored Church's great efforts 01:45:50.670 --> 01:45:53.690 align:middle line:84% to promote religious freedom in the United States 01:45:53.690 --> 01:45:55.340 align:middle line:90% and across the world. 01:45:55.340 --> 01:45:59.260 align:middle line:84% These efforts do not promote just our own interests 01:45:59.260 --> 01:46:04.220 align:middle line:84% but, according to His plan, seek to help all of God's children 01:46:04.220 --> 01:46:07.770 align:middle line:90% enjoy freedom to choose. 01:46:07.770 --> 01:46:10.190 align:middle line:84% Second, we are a missionary people. 01:46:10.190 --> 01:46:13.400 align:middle line:84% We are sometimes asked why we send missionaries 01:46:13.400 --> 01:46:17.570 align:middle line:84% to so many nations, even among Christian populations. 01:46:17.570 --> 01:46:20.400 align:middle line:84% We receive the same question about why 01:46:20.400 --> 01:46:24.290 align:middle line:84% we give many millions of dollars of humanitarian aid 01:46:24.290 --> 01:46:27.320 align:middle line:84% to persons who are not members of our Church 01:46:27.320 --> 01:46:31.820 align:middle line:84% and why we do not link this aid to our missionary efforts. 01:46:31.820 --> 01:46:37.760 align:middle line:84% We do this because we esteem all mortals as children of God--our 01:46:37.760 --> 01:46:43.090 align:middle line:84% brothers and sisters--and we want to share our spiritual 01:46:43.090 --> 01:46:47.370 align:middle line:84% and temporal abundance with everyone. 01:46:47.370 --> 01:46:51.100 align:middle line:84% Third, mortal life is sacred to us. 01:46:51.100 --> 01:46:53.880 align:middle line:84% Our commitment to God's plan requires 01:46:53.880 --> 01:46:59.550 align:middle line:84% us to oppose abortion and euthanasia. 01:46:59.550 --> 01:47:03.630 align:middle line:84% Fourth, some are troubled by some of our Church's positions 01:47:03.630 --> 01:47:05.730 align:middle line:90% on marriage and children. 01:47:05.730 --> 01:47:09.950 align:middle line:84% Our knowledge of God's revealed plan of salvation 01:47:09.950 --> 01:47:14.970 align:middle line:84% requires us to oppose current social and legal pressures 01:47:14.970 --> 01:47:17.550 align:middle line:84% to retreat from traditional marriage 01:47:17.550 --> 01:47:23.160 align:middle line:84% or to make changes that confuse or alter gender or homogenize 01:47:23.160 --> 01:47:25.640 align:middle line:84% the differences between men and women. 01:47:25.640 --> 01:47:29.340 align:middle line:84% We know that the relationships, identities, 01:47:29.340 --> 01:47:34.150 align:middle line:84% and functions of men and women are essential to accomplish 01:47:34.150 --> 01:47:37.410 align:middle line:90% God's great plan. 01:47:37.410 --> 01:47:40.230 align:middle line:84% Fifth, we also have a distinctive perspective 01:47:40.230 --> 01:47:41.530 align:middle line:90% on children. 01:47:41.530 --> 01:47:44.650 align:middle line:84% We look on the bearing and nurturing of children 01:47:44.650 --> 01:47:48.590 align:middle line:84% as part of God's plan and a joyful and sacred duty 01:47:48.590 --> 01:47:52.330 align:middle line:84% of those given the power to participate in it. 01:47:52.330 --> 01:47:55.210 align:middle line:84% In our view, the ultimate treasures 01:47:55.210 --> 01:48:00.490 align:middle line:84% on earth and in heaven are our children and our posterity. 01:48:00.490 --> 01:48:04.360 align:middle line:84% Therefore, we must teach and contend for principles 01:48:04.360 --> 01:48:08.010 align:middle line:84% and practices that provide the best conditions 01:48:08.010 --> 01:48:10.950 align:middle line:84% for the development and happiness of children--all 01:48:10.950 --> 01:48:11.450 align:middle line:90% children. 01:48:11.450 --> 01:48:14.030 align:middle line:90% 01:48:14.030 --> 01:48:18.020 align:middle line:84% Finally, we are beloved children of a Heavenly Father, who 01:48:18.020 --> 01:48:21.990 align:middle line:84% has taught us that maleness and femaleness, marriage 01:48:21.990 --> 01:48:24.200 align:middle line:84% between a man and a woman, and the bearing 01:48:24.200 --> 01:48:26.920 align:middle line:84% and nurturing of children are all 01:48:26.920 --> 01:48:29.720 align:middle line:84% essential to His great plan of happiness. 01:48:29.720 --> 01:48:32.530 align:middle line:84% Our positions on these fundamentals 01:48:32.530 --> 01:48:35.940 align:middle line:84% frequently provoke opposition to the Church. 01:48:35.940 --> 01:48:38.420 align:middle line:90% We consider that inevitable. 01:48:38.420 --> 01:48:43.310 align:middle line:84% Opposition is part of the plan, and Satan's most strenuous 01:48:43.310 --> 01:48:45.920 align:middle line:84% opposition is directed at whatever is 01:48:45.920 --> 01:48:48.380 align:middle line:90% most important to God's plan. 01:48:48.380 --> 01:48:51.280 align:middle line:90% He seeks to destroy God's work. 01:48:51.280 --> 01:48:53.960 align:middle line:84% His prime methods are to discredit 01:48:53.960 --> 01:48:56.580 align:middle line:84% the Savior and His divine authority, 01:48:56.580 --> 01:49:00.710 align:middle line:84% to erase the effects of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, 01:49:00.710 --> 01:49:05.840 align:middle line:84% to discourage repentance, to counterfeit revelation, 01:49:05.840 --> 01:49:09.240 align:middle line:84% and to contradict individual accountability. 01:49:09.240 --> 01:49:13.810 align:middle line:84% He also seeks to confuse gender, to distort marriage, 01:49:13.810 --> 01:49:16.990 align:middle line:84% and to discourage childbearing--especially 01:49:16.990 --> 01:49:21.380 align:middle line:84% by parents who will raise children in truth. 01:49:21.380 --> 01:49:23.330 align:middle line:84% The work of the Lord is going forward 01:49:23.330 --> 01:49:27.480 align:middle line:84% despite the organized and constant opposition that 01:49:27.480 --> 01:49:30.030 align:middle line:84% confronts us as we strive to practice 01:49:30.030 --> 01:49:33.770 align:middle line:84% the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 01:49:33.770 --> 01:49:34.830 align:middle line:90% Saints. 01:49:34.830 --> 01:49:37.970 align:middle line:84% For those who falter under that opposition, 01:49:37.970 --> 01:49:40.750 align:middle line:90% I offer these suggestions. 01:49:40.750 --> 01:49:43.850 align:middle line:84% Remember the principle of repentance made possible 01:49:43.850 --> 01:49:47.230 align:middle line:84% by the power and Atonement of Jesus Christ. 01:49:47.230 --> 01:49:50.310 align:middle line:84% As Elder Neal A. Maxwell urged, don't 01:49:50.310 --> 01:49:52.670 align:middle line:84% be among those "who would rather try 01:49:52.670 --> 01:49:57.000 align:middle line:84% to change the Church than to change themselves." 01:49:57.000 --> 01:49:59.030 align:middle line:84% As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland urged: 01:49:59.030 --> 01:50:03.260 align:middle line:84% "Hold fast to what you already know and stand strong until 01:50:03.260 --> 01:50:04.581 align:middle line:90% additional knowledge comes. ... 01:50:04.581 --> 01:50:05.080 align:middle line:90% "... 01:50:05.080 --> 01:50:07.750 align:middle line:84% In this Church, what we know will always 01:50:07.750 --> 01:50:11.680 align:middle line:90% trump what we do not know." 01:50:11.680 --> 01:50:14.340 align:middle line:84% Exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, 01:50:14.340 --> 01:50:18.150 align:middle line:84% which is the first principle of the gospel. 01:50:18.150 --> 01:50:19.740 align:middle line:90% Finally, seek help. 01:50:19.740 --> 01:50:23.550 align:middle line:84% Our Church leaders love you and seek spiritual guidance 01:50:23.550 --> 01:50:24.740 align:middle line:90% to help you. 01:50:24.740 --> 01:50:27.510 align:middle line:84% We provide many resources such as you 01:50:27.510 --> 01:50:30.540 align:middle line:84% will find through LDS.org and other supports 01:50:30.540 --> 01:50:34.030 align:middle line:90% for gospel study in the home. 01:50:34.030 --> 01:50:37.190 align:middle line:84% We also have ministering brothers and sisters called 01:50:37.190 --> 01:50:38.460 align:middle line:90% to give loving assistance. 01:50:38.460 --> 01:50:41.750 align:middle line:90% 01:50:41.750 --> 01:50:43.920 align:middle line:84% Our loving Heavenly Father wants His children 01:50:43.920 --> 01:50:47.550 align:middle line:84% to have the joy that is the purpose of our creation. 01:50:47.550 --> 01:50:51.550 align:middle line:84% That joyful destiny is eternal life, 01:50:51.550 --> 01:50:54.520 align:middle line:84% which we can obtain by pressing forward 01:50:54.520 --> 01:50:57.750 align:middle line:84% along what our prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, 01:50:57.750 --> 01:51:00.580 align:middle line:90% often calls "the covenant path." 01:51:00.580 --> 01:51:03.240 align:middle line:84% Here is what he said in his first message 01:51:03.240 --> 01:51:08.070 align:middle line:84% as President of the Church: "Keep on the covenant path. 01:51:08.070 --> 01:51:10.570 align:middle line:84% Your commitment to follow the Savior 01:51:10.570 --> 01:51:14.650 align:middle line:84% by making covenants with Him and then keeping those covenants 01:51:14.650 --> 01:51:17.740 align:middle line:84% will open the door to every spiritual blessing 01:51:17.740 --> 01:51:20.840 align:middle line:84% and privilege available to men, women, and children 01:51:20.840 --> 01:51:21.340 align:middle line:90% everywhere." 01:51:21.340 --> 01:51:24.970 align:middle line:90% 01:51:24.970 --> 01:51:28.640 align:middle line:84% I solemnly testify that the things I have said are true, 01:51:28.640 --> 01:51:33.140 align:middle line:84% and they are made possible by the teachings and the Atonement 01:51:33.140 --> 01:51:36.210 align:middle line:84% of Jesus Christ, who makes it all 01:51:36.210 --> 01:51:40.500 align:middle line:84% possible under the great plan of God, our Eternal Father. 01:51:40.500 --> 01:51:44.428 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:51:44.428 --> 01:51:58.372 align:middle line:90% 01:51:58.372 --> 01:56:47.742 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING - "COME, COME, YE SAINTS"] 01:56:47.742 --> 01:57:00.130 align:middle line:90% 01:57:00.130 --> 01:57:05.000 align:middle line:84% Heavenly Father, we thank Thee, Father, for Thy 01:57:05.000 --> 01:57:10.400 align:middle line:84% being a loving God, for Thy sending, Father, Thy Son, 01:57:10.400 --> 01:57:16.520 align:middle line:84% the Lord Jesus Christ, to redeem us and to save us. 01:57:16.520 --> 01:57:21.330 align:middle line:84% We are so grateful for living prophets, for President Nelson, 01:57:21.330 --> 01:57:24.830 align:middle line:84% and we thank Thee for the many revelations, Father, 01:57:24.830 --> 01:57:29.585 align:middle line:84% Thou hast sent and will continue to send to Thy prophets. 01:57:29.585 --> 01:57:32.090 align:middle line:90% 01:57:32.090 --> 01:57:35.430 align:middle line:84% We pray for Thy blessings to be upon President Nelson, 01:57:35.430 --> 01:57:39.320 align:middle line:84% and we pray also for Thy blessings 01:57:39.320 --> 01:57:45.530 align:middle line:84% to be upon us so we will follow the guidance, 01:57:45.530 --> 01:57:50.350 align:middle line:84% counsels, instructions that we receive from the living 01:57:50.350 --> 01:57:54.440 align:middle line:90% prophets with exact obedience. 01:57:54.440 --> 01:58:00.820 align:middle line:84% O Father, please bless us with the constant companionship 01:58:00.820 --> 01:58:07.980 align:middle line:84% of Thy Holy Spirit, we pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:58:07.980 --> 01:58:33.090 align:middle line:90% 01:58:33.090 --> 01:58:37.760 align:middle line:84% This has been a broadcast of the 188th Semiannual General 01:58:37.760 --> 01:58:41.250 align:middle line:84% Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day 01:58:41.250 --> 01:58:42.090 align:middle line:90% Saints. 01:58:42.090 --> 01:58:45.850 align:middle line:84% Speakers were selected from the General Authorities and General 01:58:45.850 --> 01:58:47.410 align:middle line:90% Officers of the Church. 01:58:47.410 --> 01:58:50.570 align:middle line:84% Music was provided by the Tabernacle Choir 01:58:50.570 --> 01:58:52.460 align:middle line:90% at Temple Square. 01:58:52.460 --> 01:58:56.260 align:middle line:84% This broadcast has been furnished as a public service 01:58:56.260 --> 01:58:58.110 align:middle line:90% by Bonneville Distribution. 01:58:58.110 --> 01:59:01.150 align:middle line:84% Any reproduction, recording, transcription, 01:59:01.150 --> 01:59:04.540 align:middle line:84% or other use of this program without written consent 01:59:04.540 --> 01:59:06.360 align:middle line:90% is prohibited. 01:59:06.360 --> 01:59:29.451 align:middle line:90%