The Talks of Thomas S.

Monson, 20062015
Last Updated: October 18, 2015

General Conference Talks

April 2006 General Conference
True to the Faith

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
Let us resolve here and now to follow that straight path which leads home to
the Father of us all.
Many years ago, on an assignment to the beautiful islands of Tonga, I was privileged to
visit our Church school, the Liahona High School, where our youth are taught by teachers
with a common bond of faithproviding training for the mind and preparation for life. On
that occasion, entering one classroom, I noticed the rapt attention the children gave
their native instructor. His textbook and theirs lay closed upon the desks. In his hand he
held a strange-appearing fishing lure fashioned from a round stone and large seashells.
This, I learned, was a maka-feke, an octopus lure. In Tonga, octopus meat is a delicacy.
The teacher explained that Tongan fishermen glide over a reef, paddling their outrigger
canoes with one hand and dangling the maka-feke over the side with the other. An
octopus dashes out from its rocky lair and seizes the lure, mistaking it for a much-desired
meal. So tenacious is the grasp of the octopus and so firm is its instinct not to relinquish
the precious prize that fishermen can flip it right into the canoe.
It was an easy transition for the teacher to point out to the eager and wide-eyed youth
that the evil oneeven Satanhas fashioned so-called maka-fekes with which to
ensnare unsuspecting persons and take possession of their destinies.
Today we are surrounded by the maka-fekes which the evil one dangles before us and
with which he attempts to entice us and then to ensnare us. Once grasped, such makafekes are ever so difficultand sometimes nearly impossibleto relinquish. To be safe,
we must recognize them for what they are and then be unwavering in our determination
to avoid them.
Constantly before us is the maka-feke of immorality. Almost everywhere we turn, there
are those who would have us believe that what was once considered immoral is now
acceptable. I think of the scripture, Wo unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that
put darkness for light, and light for darkness. 1 Such is the maka-feke of immorality. We
are reminded in the Book of Mormon that chastity and virtue are precious above all
things.

When temptation comes, remember the wise counsel of the Apostle Paul, who declared,
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful,
who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation
also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 2
Next, the evil one also dangles before us the maka-feke of pornography. He would have
us believe that the viewing of pornography really hurts no one. How applicable is
Alexander Popes classic, An Essay on Man:
Vice is a monster of so frightful mien,
As to be hated needs but to be seen;
Yet seen too oft, familiar with her face,
We first endure, then pity, then embrace.

Some publishers and printers prostitute their presses by printing millions of pieces of
pornography each day. No expense is spared to produce a product certain to be viewed,
then viewed again. One of the most accessible sources of pornography today is the
Internet, where one can turn on a computer and instantly have at his fingertips countless
sites featuring pornography. President Gordon B. Hinckley has said: I fear this may be
going on in some of your homes. It is vicious. It is lewd and filthy. It is enticing and habitforming. It will take [you] down to destruction as surely as anything in this world. It is foul
sleaze that makes its exploiters wealthy, its victims impoverished. 4
Tainted as well is the movie producer, the television programmer, or the entertainer who
promotes pornography. Long gone are the restraints of yesteryear. So-called realism is
the quest, with the result that today we are surrounded by this filth.
Avoid any semblance of pornography. It will desensitize the spirit and erode the
conscience. We are told in the Doctrine and Covenants, That which doth not edify is not
of God, and is darkness. 5 Such is pornography.
I mention next the maka-feke of drugs, including alcohol. Once grasped, this maka-feke
is particularly difficult to abandon. Drugs and alcohol cloud thinking, remove inhibitions,
fracture families, shatter dreams, and shorten life. They are everywhere to be found and
are placed purposely in the pathway of vulnerable youth.
Each one of us has a body that has been entrusted to us by a loving Heavenly Father. We
have been commanded to care for it. Can we deliberately abuse or injure our bodies
without being held accountable? We cannot! The Apostle Paul declared: Know ye not
that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 6 May we keep our bodiesour temples
fit and clean, free from harmful substances which destroy our physical, mental, and
spiritual well-being.
The final maka-feke I wish to mention today is one which can crush our self-esteem, ruin
relationships, and leave us in desperate circumstances. It is the maka-feke of excessive
debt. It is a human tendency to want the things which will give us prominence and
prestige. We live in a time when borrowing is easy. We can purchase almost anything we
could ever want just by using a credit card or obtaining a loan. Extremely popular are
home equity loans, where one can borrow an amount of money equal to the equity he

has in his home. What we may not realize is that a home equity loan is equivalent to a
second mortgage. The day of reckoning will come if we have continually lived beyond our
means.
My brothers and sisters, avoid the philosophy that yesterdays luxuries have become
todays necessities. They arent necessities unless we make them so. Many enter into
long-term debt only to find that changes occur: people become ill or incapacitated,
companies fail or downsize, jobs are lost, natural disasters befall us. For many reasons,
payments on large amounts of debt can no longer be made. Our debt becomes as a
Damocles sword hanging over our heads and threatening to destroy us.
I urge you to live within your means. One cannot spend more than one earns and remain
solvent. I promise you that you will then be happier than you would be if you were
constantly worrying about how to make the next payment on nonessential debt. In the
Doctrine and Covenants we read: Pay the debt thou hast contracted. Release thyself
from bondage. 7
There are, of course, countless other maka-fekes which the evil one dangles before us to
lead us from the path of righteousness. However, our Heavenly Father has given us life
and with it the capacity to think, to reason, and to love. We have the power to resist any
temptation and the ability to determine the path we will take, the direction we will travel.
Our goal is the celestial kingdom of God. Our purpose is to steer an undeviating course in
that direction.
To all who walk the pathway of life, our Heavenly Father cautions: beware the detours,
the pitfalls, the traps. Cunningly positioned are those cleverly disguised maka-fekes
beckoning us to grasp them and to lose that which we most desire. Do not be deceived.
Pause to pray. Listen to that still, small voice which speaks to the depths of our souls the
Masters gentle invitation, Come, follow me. 8 By doing so, we turn from destruction,
from death, and find happiness and life everlasting.
Yet there are those who do not hear, who will not obey, who listen to the enticings of the
evil one, who grasp those maka-fekes until they cannot let go, until all is lost. I think of
that person of power, that cardinal of the cloth, even Cardinal Wolsey. The prolific pen of
William Shakespeare described the majestic heights, the pinnacle of power to which
Cardinal Wolsey ascended. That same pen told how principle was eroded by vain
ambition, by expediency, by a clamor for prominence and prestige. Then came the tragic
descent, the painful lament of one who had gained everything, then lost it all.
To Cromwell, his faithful servant, Cardinal Wolsey speaks:
O Cromwell, Cromwell!
Had I but servd my God with half the zeal
I servd my king, He would not in mine age
Have left me naked to mine enemies. 9
That inspired mandate which would have led Cardinal Wolsey to safety was ruined by the
pursuit of power and prominence, the quest for wealth and position. Like others before
him and many more yet to follow, Cardinal Wolsey fell.

In an earlier time and by a wicked king, a servant of God was tested. Aided by the
inspiration of heaven, Daniel interpreted to King Belshazzar the writing on the wall.
Concerning the proffered rewardseven a royal robe and a necklace of goldDaniel
said: Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another. 10
Darius, a later king, also honored Daniel, elevating him to the highest position of
prominence. There followed the envy of the crowd, the jealousy of princes, and the
scheming of ambitious men.
Through trickery and flattery, King Darius signed a proclamation providing that anyone
who made a request of any god or man, except the king, should be thrown into the lions
den. Prayer was forbidden. In such matters, Daniel took direction not from an earthly
king but from the King of heaven and earth, his God. Overtaken in his daily prayers,
Daniel was brought before the king. Reluctantly, the penalty was pronounced. Daniel was
to be thrown into the lions den.
I love the biblical account which follows:
The king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions.
And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice O Daniel, is thy
God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?
Then said Daniel unto the king
My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions mouths, that they have not hurt
me.
Then was the king exceeding glad. Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no
manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. 11
In a time of critical need, Daniels determination to remain true and faithful provided
divine protection and a sanctuary of safety.
The clock of history, like the sands of the hourglass, marks the passage of time. A new
cast occupies the stage of life. The problems of our day loom ominously before us.
Surrounded by the challenges of modern living, we look heavenward for that unfailing
sense of direction that we might chart and follow a wise and proper course. Our
Heavenly Father will not deny our petition.
When I think of righteous individuals, the names of Gustav and Margarete Wacker come
readily to mind. Let me describe them. I first met the Wackers when I was called to
preside over the Canadian Mission in 1959. They had immigrated to Kingston, Ontario,
Canada, from their native Germany.
Brother Wacker earned his living as a barber. His means were limited, but he and Sister
Wacker always paid more than a tenth as tithing. As branch president, Brother Wacker
started a missionary fund, and for months at a time he was the only contributor. When
there were missionaries in the city, the Wackers fed and cared for them, and the
missionaries never left the Wacker home without some tangible donation to their work
and welfare.

Gustav and Margarete Wackers home was a heaven. They were not blessed with
children, but they mothered and fathered their many Church visitors. Men and women of
learning and sophistication sought out these humble, unlettered servants of God and
counted themselves fortunate if they could spend an hour in their presence. The
Wackers appearance was ordinary, their English halting and somewhat difficult to
understand, their home unpretentious. They didnt own a car or a television, nor did they
do any of the things to which the world usually pays attention. Yet the faithful beat a
path to their door in order to partake of the spirit that was there.
In March of 1982, Brother and Sister Wacker were called to serve as full-time ordinance
workers in the Washington D.C. Temple. On June 29, 1983, while Brother and Sister
Wacker were still serving in this temple assignment, Brother Wacker, with his beloved
wife at his side, peacefully passed from mortality to his eternal reward. Fitting are the
words, Who honors God, God honors. 12
My brothers and sisters, let us resolve here and now to follow that straight path which
leads home to the Father of us all so that the gift of eternal lifelife in the presence of
our Heavenly Fathermay be ours. Should there be those things which need to be
changed or corrected in order to do so, I encourage you to take care of them now.
In the words of a familiar hymn, may we ever be
True to the faith that our parents have cherished,
True to the truth for which martyrs have perished,
To Gods command, Soul, heart and hand,
Faithful and true we will ever stand. 13
That each of us may do so is my humble prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2006 General Conference

Our Sacred Priesthood Trust

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
The priesthood is not really so much a gift as it is a commission to serve, a
privilege to lift, and an opportunity to bless the lives of others.
Some years ago as our youngest son, Clark, was approaching his 12th birthday, he and I
were leaving the Church Administration Building when President Harold B. Lee
approached and greeted us. I mentioned to President Lee that Clark would soon be 12,
whereupon President Lee turned to him and asked, What happens to you when you turn
12?
This was one of those times when a father prays that a son will be inspired to give a
proper response. Clark, without hesitation, said to President Lee, I will be ordained a
deacon!

The answer was the one for which I had prayed and which President Lee had sought. He
then counseled our son, Remember, it is a great blessing to hold the priesthood.
I hope with all my heart and soul that every young man who receives the priesthood will
honor that priesthood and be true to the trust which is conveyed when it is conferred.
May each of us who holds the priesthood of God know what he believes. As the Apostle
Peter admonished, may we ever be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh
you a reason of the hope that is in you. 1 There will be occasions in each of our lives
when we will be called upon to explain or to defend our beliefs. When the time for
performance arrives, the time for preparation is past.
Most of you young men will have the opportunity to share your testimonies when you
serve as missionaries throughout the world. Prepare now for that wonderful privilege.
I have experienced many opportunities. One occurred 21 years ago, prior to the time
when the German Democratic Republicor East Germany, as it was more commonly
knownwas freed from Communist rule. I was visiting with the East German state
secretary, Minister Gysi. At that time our temple at Freiberg, in East Germany, was under
construction, along with two or three meetinghouses. Minister Gysi and I visited on a
number of subjects, including our worldwide building program. He then asked, Why is
your church so wealthy that you can afford to build buildings in our country and
throughout the world? How do you get your money?
I answered that the Church is not wealthy but that we follow the ancient biblical principle
of tithing, which principle is reemphasized in our modern scripture. I explained also that
our Church has no paid ministry and indicated that these were two reasons why we were
able to build the buildings then under way, including the beautiful temple at Freiberg.
Minister Gysi was most impressed with the information I presented, and I was very
grateful I was able to answer his questions.
The opportunity to declare a truth may come when we least expect it. Let us be
prepared.
On one occasion, President David O. McKay was asked by a woman not a member of the
Church what specific belief set apart the teachings of the Church from those of any other
faith. In speaking of this later, President McKay indicated that he had felt impressed to
answer, That which differentiates the beliefs of my church from those of others is divine
authority by direct revelation. 2
Where could we find a more significant example of divine authority by direct revelation
than in the events which occurred that beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of
eighteen hundred and twenty, when the lad Joseph Smith retired to the woods to pray.
His words describing that moment in history are overpowering: I saw two Personages,
whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of
them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the otherThis is My
Beloved Son. Hear Him! 3
Our thoughts turn to the visit of that heavenly messenger, John the Baptist, on May 15,
1829. There on the bank of the Susquehanna River, near Harmony, Pennsylvania, John
laid his hands upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and ordained them, saying, Upon

you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which
holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of
baptism by immersion for the remission of sins. 4 The messenger announced that he
acted under the direction of Peter, James, and John, who held the keys of the
Melchizedek Priesthood. Ordination and baptism followed. This is yet another example of
divine authority by direct revelation.
In due time, Peter, James, and John were sent to bestow the blessings of the Melchizedek
Priesthood. These Apostles sent by the Lord ordained and confirmed Joseph and Oliver to
be Apostles and special witnesses of His name. Divine authority by direct revelation
characterized this sacred visitation.
As a result of these experiences, all of us carry the requirementeven the blessed
opportunity and solemn dutyto be true to the trust we have received.
President Brigham Young declared, The Priesthood of the Son of God is the law by
which the worlds are, were, and will continue for ever and ever. 5 President Joseph F.
Smith, expanding on this theme, advised, It is nothing more nor less than the power of
God delegated to man by which man can act in the earth for the salvation of the human
family, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost, and act legitimately;
not assuming that authority, nor borrowing it from generations that are dead and gone,
but authority that has been given in this day in which we live by ministering angels and
spirits from above, direct from the presence of Almighty God. 6
As I approached my 18th birthday and prepared to enter military service in World War II, I
was recommended to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. Mine was the task to
telephone President Paul C. Child, my stake president, for an interview. He was one who
loved and understood the holy scriptures, and it was his intent that all others should
similarly love and understand them. As I knew from others of his rather detailed and
searching interviews, our telephone conversation went something like this:
Hello, President Child. This is Brother Monson. I have been asked by the bishop to visit
with you relative to being ordained an elder.
Fine, Brother Monson. When can you see me?
Knowing that his sacrament meeting time was 4:00 and desiring minimum exposure of
my scriptural knowledge to his review, I suggested, How would 3:00 be?
His response: Oh, Brother Monson, that would not provide us sufficient time to peruse
the scriptures. Could you please come at 2:00 and bring with you your personally marked
set of scriptures?
Sunday finally arrived, and I visited President Childs home. I was greeted warmly, and
then the interview began. He said, Brother Monson, you hold the Aaronic Priesthood. Of
course, I knew that. He continued, Have you ever had an angel minister to you?
My reply, Im not sure.
Do you know, said he, that you are entitled to such?

Came my response: No.

Then he instructed, Brother Monson, repeat from memory the 13th section of the
Doctrine and Covenants.
I began, Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of
Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels
Stop, President Child directed. Then in a calm, kindly tone, he counseled, Brother
Monson, never forget that as a holder of the Aaronic Priesthood you are entitled to the
ministering of angels. Now continue the passage.
I recited from memory the remainder of the section. President Child said, Splendid. He
then discussed with me several other sections of the Doctrine and Covenants pertaining
to the priesthood. It was a long interview, but I have never forgotten it. At the conclusion,
President Child put his arm around my shoulder and said, You are now ready to receive
the Melchizedek Priesthood. Remember that the Lord blesses the person who serves
Him.
Many years later, Paul C. Child, then of the Priesthood Welfare Committee, and I
attended a stake conference together. At the priesthood leadership session, when it was
his turn to speak, he took his scriptures in hand and walked from the stand into the
congregation. Knowing President Child as I did, I knew what he was going to do. He
quoted from the Doctrine and Covenants, including section 18 concerning the worth of a
soul, indicating that we should labor all our days to bring souls unto the Lord. He then
turned to one elders quorum president and asked, What is the worth of a soul?
The stunned quorum president hesitated as he formulated his reply. I had a prayer in my
heart that he would be able to answer the question. He finally responded, The worth of
a soul is its capacity to become as God.
Brother Child closed his scriptures, walked solemnly and quietly up the aisle and back to
the stand. As he passed by me, he said, A most profound reply.
We need to know the oath and covenant of the priesthood because it pertains to all of
us. To those who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, it is a declaration of our requirement
to be faithful and obedient to the laws of God and to magnify the callings which come to
us. To those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood, it is a pronouncement concerning future
duty and responsibility, that they may prepare themselves here and now.
This oath and covenant is set forth by the Lord in these words:
For whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken,
and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their
bodies.
They become the sons of Moses and of Aaron and the seed of Abraham, and the church
and kingdom, and the elect of God.
And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord;

For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me;

And he that receiveth me receiveth my Father;
And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Fathers kingdom; therefore all that my
Father hath shall be given unto him. 7
The late Elder Delbert L. Stapley of the Quorum of the Twelve once observed: There are
two main requirements of this oath and covenant. First is faithfulness, which denotes
obedience to the laws of God and connotes true observance of all gospel standards.
The second requirement is to magnify ones calling. To magnify is to honor, to exalt
and glorify, and cause to be held in greater esteem or respect. It also means to increase
the importance of, to enlarge and make greater. 8
The Prophet Joseph Smith was once asked, Brother Joseph, you frequently urge that we
magnify our callings. What does this mean? He is said to have replied, To magnify a
calling is to hold it up in dignity and importance, that the light of heaven may shine
through ones performance to the gaze of other men. An elder magnifies his calling when
he learns what his duties as an elder are and then performs them.
Those who bear the Aaronic Priesthood should be given opportunity to magnify their
callings in that priesthood.
One Sunday two years ago I was attending sacrament meeting in my ward. Thats a
rarity. There were three priests at the sacrament table, with the young man in the center
being somewhat handicapped in movement but particularly so in speech. He tried twice
to bless the bread but stumbled badly each time, no doubt embarrassed by his inability
to give the prayer perfectly. One of the other priests then took over and gave the
blessing on the bread.
During the passing of the bread, I thought to myself, I just cant let that young man
experience failure at the sacrament table. I had a strong feeling that if I didnt doubt, he
would be able to bless the water effectively. Inasmuch as I was on the stand near the
sacrament table, I leaned over and said to the priest closest to me, pointing to the young
man who had experienced the difficulty, Let him bless the water; its a shorter prayer.
And then I prayed. I didnt want a double failure. I love that passage of scripture which
tells us that we should not doubt but believe. 9
When it was time to bless the water, that young man knelt again and gave the prayer,
perhaps somewhat haltingly but without missing a word. I rejoiced silently. While the
deacons were passing the trays, I looked over at the boy and gave him a thumbs-up. He
gave me a broad smile. When the young men were excused to sit with their families, he
sat on the row between his mother and father. What a joy it was to see his mother give
him a big smile and a warm hug, while his father congratulated him and put his arm
around his shoulder. All three of them looked in my direction, and I gave them all a
thumbs-up. I could see the mother and father wiping tears from their eyes. I felt
impressed that this young man would do just fine in the future.
The priesthood is not really so much a gift as it is a commission to serve, a privilege to
lift, and an opportunity to bless the lives of others.

Not long ago I received a letter concerning a choice young deacon, Isaac Reiter, and the
deacons, teachers, and priests who served, lifted, and blessed his life and their own
lives.
Isaac fought cancer from the time he was seven months old until his death at age 13.
When he and his family moved to a home near a hospital so that Isaac could receive
proper medical attention, the Aaronic Priesthood members in the nearby ward were
asked to provide the sacrament to them each Sunday. This weekly ordinance became a
favorite of the Aaronic Priesthood holders who participated. Along with their leaders and
Isaacs family, they would gather around Isaacs hospital bed, sing hymns, and share
testimonies. Then the sacrament would be blessed. Isaac always insisted that, as a
deacon, he pass the sacrament to his family and to those who had brought it. As he lay
in his bed, he gathered the strength to hold a plate of either the blessed bread or water.
All present would come to Isaac and partake of the sacrament from the plate. Nurses and
other medical staff soon began to participate in the meeting as they realized that Isaac
was close to his Heavenly Father and always honored Him. Though weak and in pain,
Isaac always held himself with the honor of someone holding a royal priesthood.
Isaac was a great example to the young men in the ward. They saw his desire to fulfill his
duties, even on his deathbed, and they realized that those duties were really privileges.
They began showing up earlier in order to prepare the sacrament and to be in their seats
on time. There was more reverence.
Isaac Reiter became a living sermon concerning honoring the priesthood. At his funeral,
it was said that throughout his life he had one foot in heaven. No doubt he continues to
magnify his duties and assist in the work beyond the veil.
For those of us who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, our privilege to magnify our
callings is ever present. We are shepherds watching over Israel. The hungry sheep do
look up, ready to be fed the bread of life. Are we prepared, brethren, to feed the flock of
God? It is imperative that we recognize the worth of a human soul, that we never give up
on one of His precious sons.
Should there be anyone who feels he is too weak to do better because of that greatest of
fears, the fear of failure, there is no more comforting assurance to be had than the words
of the Lord: My grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if
they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things
become strong unto them. 10
Miracles are everywhere to be found when priesthood callings are magnified. When faith
replaces doubt, when selfless service eliminates selfish striving, the power of God brings
to pass His purposes. Whom God calls, God qualifies.
May our Heavenly Father ever bless, ever inspire, and ever lead all who hold His precious
priesthood is my sincere prayer, and I offer it in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2006 General Conference

True to Our Priesthood Trust

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
It is in doingnot just dreamingthat lives are blessed, others are guided,
and souls are saved.
A few weeks ago at a fast and testimony meeting at our ward, I watched a little boy on
the back row mustering up courage to bear his testimony. He made three or four false
starts and then sat down. Finally it was his turn. He squared his little shoulders, walked
bravely up the aisle to the stand, took the two steps up to the level of the pulpit, stepped
over and put his hands on the pulpit, gazed into the congregation, smiledand then
turned around, went back off those two steps and down the same aisle to his mother and
father. I looked at you tonight in this vast Conference Center and thought of those
listening in and could appreciate more fully the actions of that little boy.
My brethren, I am honored by the privilege to speak to you this evening. I have
contemplated what I might say to you. There has come to my mind a favorite scripture
from Ecclesiastes: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of
man (Ecclesiastes 12:13). I love, I cherish the noble word duty.
The legendary General Robert E. Lee of American Civil War fame declared: Duty is the
sublimest word in our language. You cannot do more. You should never wish to do
less (in John Bartlett, Familiar Quotations [1968], 620).
Each of us has duties associated with the sacred priesthood which we bear. Whether we
bear the Aaronic or the Melchizedek Priesthood, much is expected of each of us. The Lord
Himself summed up our responsibility when He, in the revelation on the priesthood,
urged, Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he
is appointed, in all diligence (D&C 107:99).
I hope with all my heart and soul that every young man who receives the priesthood will
honor that priesthood and be true to the trust which is conveyed when it is conferred.
Fifty-one years ago I heard William J. Critchlow Jr., then president of the South Ogden
Stake who would later become an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve, speak to the
brethren of the general priesthood session of conference and retell a story concerning
trust, honor, and duty. May I share the story with you. Its simple lesson applies to us
today, as it did then.
[Young] Rupert stood by the side of the road watching an unusual number of people
hurry past. At length he recognized a friend. Where are all of you going in such a hurry?
he asked.
The friend paused. Havent you heard? he said.
Ive heard nothing, Rupert answered.
Well, continued [the] friend, the King has lost his royal emerald! Yesterday he
attended a wedding of the nobility and wore the emerald on the slender golden chain

around his neck. In some way the emerald became loosened from the chain. Everyone is
searching, for the King has offered a reward to the one who finds it. Come, we must
hurry.
But I cannot go without asking Grandmother, faltered Rupert.
Then I cannot wait. I want to find the emerald, replied his friend.
Rupert hurried back to the cabin at the edge of the woods to seek his grandmothers
permission. If I could find it we could leave this hut with its dampness and buy a piece of
land up on the hillside, he pleaded with Grandmother.
But his grandmother shook her head. What would the sheep do? she asked. Already
they are restless in the pen, waiting to be taken to the pasture, and please do not forget
to take them to water when the sun shines high in the heavens.
Sorrowfully, Rupert took the sheep to the pasture, and at noon he led them to the brook
in the woods. There he sat on a large stone by the stream. If I could only have had a
chance to look for the Kings emerald! he thought. Turning his head to gaze down at the
sandy bottom of the brook, suddenly he stared into the water. What was it? It could not
be! He leaped into the water, and his gripping fingers held something that was green
with a slender bit of gold chain [that had been broken]. The Kings emerald! he shouted.
It must have been flung from the chain when the King [astride his horse galloped across
the bridge spanning the stream and the current carried] it here.
With shining eyes Rupert ran to his grandmothers hut to tell her of his great find. Bless
you, my boy, she said, but you never would have found it if you had not been doing
your duty, herding the sheep. And Rupert knew that this was the truth. (In Conference
Report, Oct. 1955, 86; paragraphing, capitalization, and punctuation altered.)
The lesson to be learned from this story is found in the familiar couplet: Do [your] duty;
that is best; Leave unto [the] Lord the rest! (Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, The Legend
Beautiful, in The Complete Poetical Works of Longfellow [1893], 258).
To you who are or have been presidents of your quorums, may I suggest that your duty
does not end when your term of office concludes. That relationship with your quorum
members, your duty to them, continues throughout your life.
During the time I was a teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood, I was called to be president of
the quorum. With the urging and assistance of a dedicated and inspired quorum adviser,
I worked diligently to ensure that each of the young men attended our meetings
regularly. Two of them were a particular challenge, but with our perseverance and love
and a little persuasion, they began to attend meetings and participate in quorum
activities. However, as time passed and they left the ward to pursue education and
employment, each of them drifted back into inactivity.
Over the years I have seen each of these two dear friends at various functions.
Whenever I do, I place a hand on their shoulder and remind them, Im still your quorum
president, and I wont let go. You mean so much to me, and I want you to enjoy the
blessings which come with activity in the Church. They know I love them and that Ill
never ever give up on them.

For those of us who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, our privilege to magnify our
callings is ever present. We are shepherds watching over Israel. The hungry sheep look
up, ready to be fed the bread of life.
Many years ago, on a Halloween night, it was my privilege to be of assistance to one who
had temporarily lost his way and needed a helping hand to return. I was driving home
from the office rather late. I had been stalling on Halloween, letting my wife handle the
trick-or-treat visitors. As I passed St. Marks Hospital in Salt Lake City, I remembered that
a dear friend, Max, lay ill in that very hospital. As he and I had become acquainted years
before, we discovered that we had grown up in the same ward, although at different
times. By the time I was born, Max and his parents had moved from the ward.
That Halloween night, I drove into the parking lot and entered the hospital. As I stopped
at the desk to inquire as to his room number, I was informed that when Max had
registered at the hospital, he had listed as his religious preference not LDS but rather
another church.
I entered Maxs room and greeted him. I told him how proud I was to be his friend and
how much I cared about him. I talked about his career in banking and as an orchestra
leader on the side. I discovered that he had been offended by a comment or two from
others and so had decided to attend another church. I said to him, Max, you hold the
Melchizedek Priesthood. I would like to give you a blessing tonight. He agreed, and the
blessing was provided. He then informed me that his wife, Bernice, was also very ill and
was, in fact, in an adjoining room. At my invitation, Max joined me in giving a blessing to
her. He asked me to help him. I coached him. He anointed his wife. There were tears and
embraces all around as I sealed the anointing with Max, his hands on his wifes head with
mine, making that Halloween evening one ever to be remembered.
As I left the hospital that night, I stopped at the desk and told the receptionist that with
the permission of Max and his wife the record should be changed to reflect their
membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I waited and I watched
until it was changed.
My friends Max and Bernice are now both on the other side of the veil, but they spent the
last period of their lives active and happy and receiving the blessings which come with
testimonies of the gospel and attendance at church.
Brethren, our task is to reach out to those who, for whatever reason, are in need of our
help. Our challenge is not insurmountable. We are on the Lords errand, and therefore we
are entitled to the Lords help. But we must try. From the play Shenandoah comes the
spoken line which inspires: If we dont try, then we dont do; and if we dont do, then
why are we here?
Ours is the responsibility to so conduct our lives that when the call comes to provide a
priesthood blessing or to assist in any way, we are worthy to do so. We have been told
that truly we cannot escape the effect of our personal influence. We must be certain that
our influence is positive and uplifting.
Are our hands clean? Are our hearts pure? Looking backward in time through the pages
of history, we find a lesson on worthiness gleaned from the words of the dying King
Darius. Through the proper rites, Darius had been recognized as legitimate king of Egypt.

His rival, Alexander the Great, had been declared legitimate son of Amon. He too was
Pharaoh. Alexander, finding the defeated Darius on the point of death, laid his hands
upon his head to heal him, commanding him to arise and resume his kingly power,
concluding, I swear unto thee, Darius, by all the gods, that I do these things truly and
without fakery.
Darius replied with a gentle rebuke: Alexander, my boy, do you think you can touch
heaven with those hands of yours? (Adapted from Hugh Nibley, Abraham in Egypt
[1981], 192.)
The call of duty can come quietly as we who hold the priesthood respond to the
assignments we receive. President George Albert Smith, that modest yet effective leader
and eighth President of the Church, declared, It is your duty first of all to learn what the
Lord wants and then by the power and strength of His holy Priesthood to magnify your
calling in the presence of your fellows in such a way that the people will be glad to follow
you (in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 14).
And how does one magnify a calling? Simply by performing the service that pertains to it.
Brethren, it is in doingnot just dreamingthat lives are blessed, others are guided, and
souls are saved. Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own
selves, declared James (James 1:22).
May all of us assembled tonight in this priesthood meeting make a renewed effort to
qualify for the Lords guidance in our lives. There are so many out there who plead and
pray for help. There are those who are discouraged, those who long to return but who
dont know how to begin.
Ive always believed in the truth of the words Gods sweetest blessings always go by
hands that serve him here below (Whitney Montgomery, Revelation, in Best-Loved
Poems of the LDS People, ed. Jack M. Lyon and others [1996], 283). Let us have ready
hands, clean hands, and willing hearts, that we may participate in providing what our
Heavenly Father would have others receive from Him.
I conclude with an example from my own life. I once had a treasured friend who seemed
to experience more of lifes troubles and frustrations than he could bear. Finally he lay in
the hospital terminally ill. I knew not that he was there.
Sister Monson and I had gone to that same hospital to visit another person who was very
ill. As we exited the hospital and proceeded to where our car was parked, I felt the
distinct impression to return and make inquiry concerning whether my friend Hyrum
might still be a patient there. A check with the clerk at the desk confirmed that Hyrum
was indeed a patient there after many weeks.
We proceeded to his room, knocked on the door, and opened it. We were not prepared
for the sight that awaited us. Balloon bouquets were everywhere. Prominently displayed
on the wall was a poster with the words Happy Birthday, Daddy written on it. Hyrum
was sitting up in his hospital bed, his family members by his side. When he saw us, he
said, Brother Monson, how in the world did you know that today is my birthday? I
smiled, but I left the question unanswered.

Those in the room who held the Melchizedek Priesthood surrounded this, their father and
grandfather and my friend, and a priesthood blessing was given.
After tears were shed, smiles of gratitude exchanged, and tender hugs received and
given, I leaned over to Hyrum and spoke softly to him: Remember the words of the Lord,
for they will sustain you. He promised you, I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to
you (John 14:18).
Time marches on. Duty keeps cadence with that march. Duty does not dim nor diminish.
Catastrophic conflicts come and go, but the war waged for the souls of men continues
without abatement. Like a clarion call comes the word of the Lord to you and to me, and
to priesthood holders everywhere. I reiterate that word: Wherefore, now let every man
learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence (D&C
107:99).
Brethren, let us learn our duties. Let us ever be worthy to perform those duties and, in so
doing, follow in the footsteps of the Master. When to Him came the call of duty, He
answered, Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever (Moses 4:2). May we
do likewise, I pray humbly, in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord, amen.

October 2006 General Conference

How Firm a Foundation

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
We can fortify our foundations of faith, our testimonies of truth, so that we
will not falter, we will not fail.
My dear brothers and sisters, both within my view and assembled throughout the world, I
seek an interest in your faith and prayers as I respond to the assignment and privilege to
address you.
In 1959, not long after I began my service as president of the Canadian Mission,
headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, I met N. Eldon Tanner, a prominent Canadian
who just months later would be called as an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles, then to the Quorum of the Twelve, and then as a counselor to four Presidents of
the Church.
At the time I met him, President Tanner was president of the vast Trans-Canada Pipelines,
Ltd., and president of the Canada Calgary Stake. He was known as Mr. Integrity in
Canada. During that first meeting, we discussed, among other subjects, the cold
Canadian winters, where storms rage, temperatures can linger well below freezing for
weeks at a time, and where icy winds lower those temperatures even further. I asked
President Tanner why the roads and highways in western Canada basically remained
intact during such winters, showing little or no signs of cracking or breaking, while the
road surfaces in many areas where winters are less cold and less severe developed
cracks and breaks and potholes.

Said he, The answer is in the depth of the base of the paving materials. In order for
them to remain strong and unbroken, it is necessary to go very deep with the foundation
layers. When the foundations are not deep enough, the surfaces cannot withstand the
extremes of weather.
Over the years I have thought often of this conversation and of President Tanners
explanation, for I recognize in his words a profound application for our lives. Stated
simply, if we do not have a deep foundation of faith and a solid testimony of truth, we
may have difficulty withstanding the harsh storms and icy winds of adversity which
inevitably come to each of us.
Mortality is a period of testing, a time to prove ourselves worthy to return to the
presence of our Heavenly Father. In order for us to be tested, we must face challenges
and difficulties. These can break us, and the surface of our souls may crack and crumble
that is, if our foundations of faith, our testimonies of truth are not deeply embedded
within us.
We can rely on the faith and testimony of others only so long. Eventually we must have
our own strong and deeply placed foundation, or we will be unable to withstand the
storms of life, which will come. Such storms come in a variety of forms. We may be faced
with the sorrow and heartbreak of a wayward child who chooses to turn from the
pathway leading to eternal truth and rather travel the slippery slopes of error and
disillusionment. Sickness may strike us or a loved one, bringing suffering and sometimes
death. Accidents may leave their cruel marks of remembrance or may snuff out life.
Death comes to the aged as they walk on faltering feet. Its summons is heard by those
who have scarcely reached midway in lifes journey, and often it hushes the laughter of
little children.
At times there appears to be no light at the tunnels end, no dawn to break the nights
darkness. We feel surrounded by the pain of broken hearts, the disappointment of
shattered dreams, and the despair of vanished hopes. We join in uttering the biblical
plea, Is there no balm in Gilead? (Jeremiah 8:22). We are inclined to view our own
personal misfortunes through the distorted prism of pessimism. We feel abandoned,
heartbroken, alone.
How can we build a foundation strong enough to withstand such vicissitudes of life? How
can we maintain the faith and testimony which will be required, that we might
experience the joy promised to the faithful? Constant, steady effort is necessary. Most of
us have experienced inspiration so strong that it brings tears to our eyes and a
determination to ever remain faithful. I have heard the statement, If I could just keep
these feelings with me always, I would never have trouble doing what I should. Such
feelings, however, can be fleeting. The inspiration we feel during these conference
sessions may diminish and fade as Monday comes and we face the routines of work, of
school, of managing our homes and families. Such can easily take our minds from the
holy to the mundane, from that which uplifts to that which, if we allow it, will chip away
at our testimonies, our strong foundations.
Of course we do not live in a world where we experience nothing but the spiritual, but we
can fortify our foundations of faith, our testimonies of truth, so that we will not falter, we
will not fail. How, you may ask, can we most effectively gain and maintain the foundation
needed to survive spiritually in the world in which we live?

May I offer three guidelines to help us in our quest.

First, fortify your foundation through prayer. Prayer is the souls sincere desire, uttered
or unexpressed (Prayer Is the Souls Sincere Desire, Hymns, no. 145).
As we pray, let us really communicate with our Father in Heaven. It is easy to let our
prayers become repetitious, expressing words with little or no thought behind them.
When we remember that each of us is literally a spirit son or daughter of God, we will not
find it difficult to approach Him in prayer. He knows us; He loves us; He wants what is
best for us. Let us pray with sincerity and meaning, offering our thanks and asking for
those things we feel we need. Let us listen for His answers, that we may recognize them
when they come. As we do, we will be strengthened and blessed. We will come to know
Him and His desires for our lives. By knowing Him, by trusting His will, our foundations of
faith will be strengthened. If any one of us has been slow to hearken to the counsel to
pray always, there is no finer hour to begin than now. William Cowper declared, Satan
trembles when he sees the weakest saint upon his knees (in William Neil, comp.,
Concise Dictionary of Religious Quotations [1974], 144).
Let us not neglect our family prayers. Such is an effective deterrent to sin, and thence a
most beneficent provider of joy and happiness. That old saying is yet true: The family
that prays together stays together. By providing an example of prayer to our children,
we will also be helping them to begin their own deep foundations of faith and
testimonies which they will need throughout their lives.
My second guideline: Let us study the scriptures and meditate therein day and night,
as counseled by the Lord in the book of Joshua (1:8).
In 2005, hundreds of thousands of Latter-day Saints accepted President Gordon B.
Hinckleys challenge to read the Book of Mormon by the end of the year. I do believe
December of 2005 would set an all-time record for hours devoted to meeting the
challenge on time. We were blessed when we completed the task; our testimonies were
strengthened, our knowledge increased. I would encourage all of us to continue to read
and study the scriptures, that we might understand them and apply in our lives the
lessons we find there. I paraphrase the poet James Phinney Baxter:
Who learns and learns but never knows
Is like the one who plows and plows but never sows.
Spending time each day in scripture study will, without doubt, strengthen our
foundations of faith and our testimonies of truth.
Recall with me the joy Alma experienced as he was journeying from the land of Gideon
southward to the land of Manti and met the sons of Mosiah. Alma had not seen them for
some time, and he was overjoyed to discover that they were still his brethren in the
Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men
of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they
might know the word of God (see Alma 17:12).
May we also know the word of God and conduct our lives accordingly.

My third guideline for building a strong foundation of faith and testimony involves
service.
While driving to the office one morning, I passed a dry-cleaning establishment which had
a sign in the window. It read, Its the Service That Counts. The signs message simply
would not leave my mind. Suddenly I realized why. In actual fact it is the service that
countsthe Lords service.
In the Book of Mormon we read of noble King Benjamin. In the true humility of an
inspired leader, he recounted his desire to serve his people and lead them in paths of
righteousness. He then declared to them:
Because I said unto you that I had spent my days in your service, I do not desire to
boast, for I have only been in the service of God.
And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that
when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God
(Mosiah 2:1617).
This is the service that counts, the service to which all of us have been called: the
service of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Along your pathway of life you will observe that you are not the only traveler. There are
others who need your help. There are feet to steady, hands to grasp, minds to
encourage, hearts to inspire, and souls to save.
Thirteen years ago it was my privilege to provide a blessing to a beautiful 12-year-old
young lady, Jami Palmer. She had just been diagnosed with cancer and was frightened
and bewildered. She subsequently underwent surgery and painful chemotherapy. Today
she is cancer-free and is a bright, beautiful 26-year-old who has accomplished much in
her life. Some time ago, I learned that in her darkest hour, when any future appeared
somewhat grim, she learned that her leg where the cancer was situated would require
multiple surgeries. A long-planned hike with her Young Women class up a rugged trail to
Timpanogos Cavelocated in the Wasatch Mountains about 40 miles south of Salt Lake
City, Utahwas out of the question, she thought. Jami told her friends they would have
to undertake the hike without her. Im confident there was a catch in her voice and
disappointment in her heart. But then the other young women responded emphatically,
No, Jami, you are going with us!
But I cant walk, came the anguished reply.
Then, Jami, well carry you to the top! And they did.
Today, the hike is a memory, but in reality it is much more. James Barrie, the Scottish
poet, declared, God gave us memories, that we might have June roses in the December
of our lives (paraphrasing James Barrie, in Laurence J. Peter, comp., Peters Quotations:
Ideas for Our Time [1977], 335). None of those precious young women will ever forget
that memorable day when a loving Heavenly Father looked down with a smile of approval
and was well pleased.

As He enlists us to His cause, He invites us to draw close to Him, and we feel His spirit in
our lives.
As we establish a firm foundation for our lives, let us each one remember His precious
promise:
Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
Ill strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.
May each of us qualify for this blessing, I humbly pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, our
Savior, amen.

April 2007 General Conference

I Know That My Redeemer Lives!

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
Because our Savior died at Calvary, death has no hold upon any one of us.
Recently I was looking through some family photo albums. Cherished memories flooded
my mind as I came across image after image of loved ones gathered at family outings,
birthdays, reunions, anniversaries. Since these photographs were taken, some of those
beloved family members have departed this life. I thought of the words of the Lord,
Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that
die. 1 I miss each one who has left our family circle.
Though difficult and painful, death is an essential part of our mortal experience. We
began our sojourn here by leaving our premortal existence and coming to this earth. The
poet Wordsworth captured that journey in his inspired ode to immortality. He wrote:
Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting:
The Soul that rises with us, our lifes Star,
Hath had elsewhere its setting,
And cometh from afar:
Not in entire forgetfulness,
And not in utter nakedness,
But trailing clouds of glory do we come
From God, who is our home:
Heaven lies about us in our infancy! 2
Life moves on. Youth follows childhood, and maturity comes ever so imperceptibly. As we
search and ponder the purpose and the problems of life, all of us sooner or later face the
question of the length of life and of a personal, everlasting life. These questions most
insistently assert themselves when loved ones leave us or when we face leaving those
we love.

At such times, we ponder the universal question, best phrased by Job of old, who
centuries ago asked, If a man die, shall he live again? 3
Today, as always, the skeptics voice challenges the word of God, and each must choose
to whom he will listen. Clarence Darrow, the famous lawyer and agnostic, declared, No
life is of much value, and every death is [but a] little loss. 4 Schopenhauer, the
German philosopher and pessimist, wrote, To desire immortality is to desire the eternal
perpetuation of a great mistake. 5 And to their words are added those of new
generations, as foolish men crucify the Christ anewfor they modify His miracles, doubt
His divinity, and reject His Resurrection.
Robert Blatchford, in his book God and My Neighbor, attacked with vigor accepted
Christian beliefs, such as God, Christ, prayer, and immortality. He boldly asserted, I
claim to have proved everything I set out to prove so fully and decisively that no
Christian, however great or able he may be, can answer my arguments or shake my
case. 6 He surrounded himself with a wall of skepticism. Then a surprising thing
happened. His wall suddenly crumbled to dust. He was left exposed and undefended.
Slowly he began to feel his way back to the faith he had scorned and ridiculed. What had
caused this profound change in his outlook? His wife died. With a broken heart, he went
into the room where lay all that was mortal of her. He looked again at the face he loved
so well. Coming out, he said to a friend: It is she, and yet it is not she. Everything is
changed. Something that was there before is taken away. She is not the same. What can
be gone if it be not the soul?
Later he wrote: Death is not what some people imagine. It is only like going into another
room. In that other room we shall find the dear women and men and the sweet
children we have loved and lost. 7
Against the doubting in todays world concerning Christs divinity, we seek a point of
reference, an unimpeachable source, even a testimony of eyewitnesses. Stephen, from
biblical times, doomed to the cruel death of a martyr, looked up to heaven and cried, I
see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 8
Who can help but be convinced by the stirring testimony of Paul to the Corinthians? He
declared that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was
buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: and was seen
of Cephas, then of the twelve: And, said Paul, last of all he was seen of me. 9
In our dispensation, this same testimony was spoken boldly by the Prophet Joseph Smith,
as he and Sidney Rigdon testified, And now, after the many testimonies which have
been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
10

This is the knowledge that sustains. This is the truth that comforts. This is the assurance
that guides those who are bowed down with griefout of the shadows and into the light.
On Christmas Eve, 1997, I met a remarkable family. Each member of the family had an
unshakable testimony of the truth and of the reality of the Resurrection. The family
consisted of a mother and father and four children. Each of the childrenthree sons and
a daughterhad been born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy, and each was
handicapped. Mark, who was then 16 years old, had undergone spinal surgery in an

effort to help him move about more freely. The other two boys, Christopher, age 13, and
Jason, age 10, were to leave for California in a few days to undergo similar surgery. The
only daughter, Shanna, was then five years olda beautiful child. All of the children were
intelligent and faith-filled, and it was obvious that their parents, Bill and Sherry, were
proud of each one. We visited for a while, and the special spirit of that family filled my
office and my heart. The father and I gave blessings to the two boys who were facing
surgery, and then the parents asked if little Shanna could sing for me. Her father
mentioned that she had diminished lung capacity and that it might be difficult for her,
but that she wanted to try. To the accompaniment of a recorded cassette, and in a
beautiful, clear voicenever missing a noteshe sang of a brighter future:
On a beautiful day that I dream about
In a world I would love to see,
Is a beautiful place where the sun comes out
And it shines in the sky for me.
On this beautiful winters morning,
If my wish could come true somehow,
Then the beautiful day that I dream about
Would be here and now. 11
The emotions of all of us were very near the surface as she finished. The spirituality of
this visit set the tone for my Christmas that year.
I kept in touch with the family, and when the oldest son, Mark, turned 19, arrangements
were made for him to serve a special mission at Church headquarters. Eventually, the
other two brothers also had an opportunity to serve such missions.
Nearly a year ago, Christopher, who was then 22 years old, succumbed to the disease
with which each of the children has been afflicted. And then, last September, I received
word that little Shanna, now 14 years old, had passed away. At the funeral services,
Shanna was honored by beautiful tributes. Leaning on the pulpit for support, each of her
surviving brothers, Mark and Jason, shared poignant family experiences. Shannas
mother sang a lovely musical number as part of a duet. Her father and grandfather gave
touching sermons. Though their hearts were broken, each bore powerful and deep-felt
testimony of the reality of the Resurrection and of the actuality that Shanna lives still, as
does her brother Christopher, each awaiting a glorious reunion with their beloved family.
When it was my time to speak, I recounted that visit the family made to my office nearly
nine years earlier and spoke of the lovely song Shanna sang on that occasion. I
concluded with the thought: Because our Savior died at Calvary, death has no hold
upon any one of us. Shanna lives, whole and well, and for her that beautiful day she sang
about on a special Christmas Eve in 1997, the day she dreamed about, is here and now.
My brothers and sisters, we laugh, we cry, we work, we play, we love, we live. And then
we die. Death is our universal heritage. All must pass its portals. Death claims the aged,
the weary and worn. It visits the youth in the bloom of hope and the glory of expectation.
Nor are little children kept beyond its grasp. In the words of the Apostle Paul, It is
appointed unto men once to die. 12
And dead we would remain but for one Man and His mission, even Jesus of Nazareth.
Born in a stable, cradled in a manger, His birth fulfilled the inspired pronouncements of

many prophets. He was taught from on high. He provided the life, the light, and the way.
Multitudes followed Him. Children adored Him. The haughty rejected Him. He spoke in
parables. He taught by example. He lived a perfect life.
Though the King of kings and Lord of lords had come, He was accorded by some the
greeting given to an enemy, a traitor. There followed a mockery which some called a
trial. Cries of crucify him, crucify him 13 filled the air. Then commenced the climb to
Calvarys hill.
He was ridiculed, reviled, mocked, jeered, and nailed to a cross amidst shouts of Let
Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. 14
He saved others; himself he cannot save. 15 His response: Father, forgive them; for
they know not what they do. 16 Into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said
thus, he gave up the ghost. 17 His body was placed by loving hands in a sepulchre hewn
of stone.
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, Mary Magdalene and Mary the
mother of James, along with others, came to the sepulchre. To their astonishment, the
body of their Lord was gone. Luke records that two men in shining garments stood by
them and said: Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen. 18
Next week the Christian world will celebrate the most significant event in recorded
history. The simple pronouncement, He is not here, but is risen, was the first
confirmation of the literal Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The empty
tomb that first Easter morning brought comforting assurance, an affirmative answer to
Jobs question, If a man die, shall he live again? 19
To all who have lost loved ones, we would turn Jobs question to an answer: If a man die,
he shall live again. We know, for we have the light of revealed truth. I am the
resurrection, and the life, spoke the Master. He that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. 20
Through tears and trials, through fears and sorrows, through the heartache and
loneliness of losing loved ones, there is assurance that life is everlasting. Our Lord and
Savior is the living witness that such is so.
With all my heart and the fervency of my soul, I lift up my voice in testimony as a special
witness and declare that God does live. Jesus is His Son, the Only Begotten of the Father
in the flesh. He is our Redeemer; He is our Mediator with the Father. He it was who died
on the cross to atone for our sins. He became the firstfruits of the Resurrection. Because
He died, all shall live again. Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives: I know that my
Redeemer lives! 21 May the whole world know it and live by that knowledge, I humbly
pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord and Savior, amen.

April 2007 General Conference

Tabernacle Memories

Thomas S. Monson

First Counselor in the First Presidency

As this building is rededicated today, may we pledge to rededicate our lives
to the work of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
My brothers and sisters, both here in the Tabernacle and listening by various means
throughout the world, it is a joy for me to stand before you once again in this magnificent
building. In this setting one cannot help but feel the spirit of the early Saints who
constructed this beautiful house of worship, as well as all those who over the years have
labored to preserve and beautify it.
I have been thinking recently of the many significant events in my life which are
associated with the Salt Lake Tabernacle. Although there are far too many for me to
mention today, I would like to share just a few.
I recall the time I approached baptism, when I was eight years of age. My mother talked
with me about repentance and about the meaning of baptism; and then, on a Saturday in
September of 1935, she took me on a streetcar to the Tabernacle baptistry which, until
recently, was here in this building. At the time it was not as customary as it is now for
fathers to baptize their children, since the ordinance was generally performed on a
Saturday morning or afternoon, and many fathers were working at their daily professions
or trades. I dressed in white and was baptized. I remember that day as though it were
yesterday and the happiness I felt at having had this ordinance performed.
Over the years and particularly during the time I served as a bishop, I witnessed many
other baptisms in the Tabernacle font. Each was a special and inspiring occasion, and
each served to remind me of my own baptism.
In April of 1950, my wife, Frances, and I were in attendance at the Sunday afternoon
session of general conference, held in this building. President George Albert Smith was
the President of the Church, and in closing the conference, he delivered an inspiring and
powerful message concerning the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Before he concluded his remarks, however, he sounded a prophetic warning. Said he: It
will not be long until calamities will overtake the human family unless there is speedy
repentance. It will not be long before those who are scattered over the face of the earth
by millions will die because of what will come (in Conference Report, Apr. 1950, 169).
These were alarming words, for they came from a prophet of God.
Two and a half months after that general conference, on June 25, 1950, war broke out in
Koreaa war which would eventually claim an estimated 2.5 million lives. This event
prompted me to reflect on the statement President Smith made as we sat in this building
that spring day.
I attended many general conference sessions in the Tabernacle, always being edified and
inspired by the words of the Brethren. Then, in October of 1963, President David O.
McKay invited me to his office and extended to me a call to serve as a member of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He asked that I keep this sacred call confidential,
revealing it to no one except my wife, and that I be present for general conference in the
Tabernacle the next day, when my name would be read aloud.

The following morning I came into the Tabernacle not knowing exactly where to sit. Being
a member of the Priesthood Home Teaching Committee, I determined that I would be
seated among the members of that committee. I noticed a friend of mine by the name of
Hugh Smith, who was also a member of the Priesthood Home Teaching Committee. He
motioned for me to sit by him. I couldnt say a thing to him about my call, but I sat down.
During the session, the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles were sustained
and, of course, my name was read. I believe the walk from the audience to the stand was
the longest walk of my life.
It has been nearly 44 years since that conference. Until the year 2000, when the
Conference Center was dedicated, it was my privilege to deliver 101 general conference
messages from the pulpit in this building, not including those given at general auxiliary
conferences and other meetings held here. My remarks today bring the total to 102. I
have had many spiritual experiences over the years as I have stood here.
During the message I delivered at general conference in October 1975, I felt prompted to
direct my remarks to a little girl with long, blonde hair, who was seated in the balcony of
this building. I called the attention of the audience to her and felt a freedom of
expression which testified to me that this small girl needed the message I had in mind
concerning the faith of another young lady.
At the conclusion of the session, I returned to my office and found waiting for me a
young child by the name of Misti White, together with her grandparents and an aunt. As I
greeted them, I recognized Misti as the one in the balcony to whom I had directed my
remarks. I learned that as her eighth birthday approached, she was in a quandary
concerning whether or not to be baptized. She felt she would like to be baptized, and her
grandparents, with whom she lived, wanted her to be baptized, but her less-active
mother suggested she wait until she was 18 years of age to make the decision. Misti had
told her grandparents, If we go to conference in Salt Lake City, maybe Heavenly Father
will let me know what I should do.
Misti and her grandparents and her aunt had traveled from California to Salt Lake City for
conference and were able to obtain seats in the Tabernacle for the Saturday afternoon
session. This was where they were seated when my attention was drawn to Misti and my
decision made to speak to her.
As we continued our visit after the session, Mistis grandmother said to me, I think Misti
has something she would like to tell you. This sweet young girl said, Brother Monson,
while you were speaking in conference, you answered my question. I want to be
baptized!
The family returned to California, and Misti was baptized and confirmed a member of The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through all the years since, Misti has
remained true and faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Fourteen years ago, it was my
privilege to perform her temple marriage to a fine young man, and together they are
rearing five beautiful children, with another one on the way.
My brothers and sisters, I feel privileged to be standing once again at the Tabernacle
pulpit in this building which holds for me such wonderful memories. The Tabernacle is a
part of my lifea part which I cherish.

I have been honored and pleased during my lifetime to raise my arm to the square in
sustaining nine Church Presidents as their names have been read. This morning I joined
you in sustaining once again our beloved prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley. It is a
joy and a privilege to serve by his side, along with President Faust.
As this building is rededicated today, may we pledge to rededicate our lives to the work
of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who so willingly died that we might live. May we
follow in His footsteps each day, I pray humbly in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2007 General Conference

The Priesthooda Sacred Gift

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
It is our responsibility to conduct our lives so that we are ever worthy of the
priesthood we bear.
Brethren, we are assembled this evening as a mighty body of the priesthood, both here
in the Conference Center and in locations throughout the world. I am honored by the
privilege to speak to you. I pray that the inspiration of the Lord will guide my thoughts
and inspire my words.
During the past several weeks, as I have contemplated what I might say to you tonight, I
have thought repeatedly of the blessing which is ours to be bearers of the sacred
priesthood of God. When we look at the world as a whole, with a population of over 6 1/2
billion people, we realize that we comprise a very small, select group. We who hold the
priesthood are, in the words of the Apostle Peter, a chosen generation, a royal
priesthood. 1
President Joseph F. Smith defined the priesthood as the power of God delegated to man
by which man can act in the earth for the salvation of the human family, by which
[men] may speak the will of God as if the angels were here to speak it themselves; by
which men are empowered to bind on earth and it shall be bound in heaven, and to loose
on earth and it shall be loosed in heaven. President Smith added, [The priesthood] is
sacred, and it must be held sacred by the people. 2
My brethren, the priesthood is a gift which brings with it not only special blessings but
also solemn responsibilities. It is our responsibility to conduct our lives so that we are
ever worthy of the priesthood we bear. We live in a time when we are surrounded by
much that is intended to entice us into paths which may lead to our destruction. To avoid
such paths requires determination and courage.
Courage counts. This truth came to me in a most vivid and dramatic manner many years
ago. I was serving as a bishop at the time. The general session of our stake conference
was being held in the Assembly Hall on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Our stake
presidency was to be reorganized. The Aaronic Priesthood, including members of
bishoprics, were providing the music for the conference. As we concluded singing our

first selection, President Joseph Fielding Smith, our conference visitor, stepped to the
pulpit and read for sustaining approval the names of the new stake presidency. He then
mentioned that Percy Fetzer, who became our new stake president, and John Burt, who
became the first counseloreach of whom had been counselors in the previous
presidencyhad been made aware of their new callings before the conference began.
However, he indicated that I, who had been called to be second counselor in the new
presidency, had no previous knowledge of the calling and was hearing of it for the first
time as my name was read for sustaining vote. He then announced, If Brother Monson is
willing to respond to this call, we will be pleased to hear from him now.
As I stood at the pulpit and gazed out on that sea of faces, I remembered the song we
had just sung. It pertained to the Word of Wisdom and was titled Have Courage, My Boy,
to Say No. That day I selected as my acceptance theme Have Courage, My Boy, to Say
Yes. The call for courage comes constantly to each of usthe courage to stand firm for
our convictions, the courage to fulfill our responsibilities, the courage to honor our
priesthood.
Wherever we go, our priesthood goes with us. Are we standing in holy places? 3 Said
President J. Reuben Clark Jr., who served for many years as a counselor in the First
Presidency: The Priesthood is not like a suit of clothes that you can lay off and take back
on. Depending upon ourselves [it is] an everlasting endowment. He continued: If we
really had that conviction that we could not lay [the priesthood] aside, and that God
would hold us responsible if we [demeaned] it, it would save us from doing a good many
things, save us from going a good many places. If, every time we started a little detour
away from the straight and narrow, we would remember, I am carrying my Priesthood
here. Should I? it would not take us long to work back into the straight and narrow. 4
President Spencer W. Kimball said: There is no limit to the power of the priesthood
which you hold. The limit comes in you if you do not live in harmony with the Spirit of the
Lord and you limit yourselves in the power you exert. 5
My brethren of the priesthoodfrom the youngest to the oldestare you living your life
in accordance with that which the Lord requires? Are you worthy to bear the priesthood
of God? If you are not, make the decision here and now, muster the courage it will take,
and institute whatever changes are necessary so that your life is what it should be. To
sail safely the seas of mortality, we need the guidance of that eternal marinereven the
great Jehovah. If we are on the Lords errand, we are entitled to the Lords help.
His help has come to me on countless occasions throughout my life. During the final
phases of World War II, I turned 18 and was ordained an elderone week before I
departed for active duty with the navy. A member of my ward bishopric was at the train
station to bid me farewell. Just before train time, he placed in my hand a book which I
hold before you tonight. Its title: The Missionarys Hand Book. I laughed and commented,
Ill be in the navynot on a mission. He answered, Take it anyway. It may come in
handy.
It did. During basic training our company commander instructed us concerning how we
might best pack our clothing in a large seabag. He then advised, If you have a hard,
rectangular object you can place in the bottom of the bag, your clothes will stay more
firm. I thought, Where am I going to find a hard, rectangular object? Suddenly I

remembered just the right rectangular objectThe Missionarys Hand Book. And thus it
served for 12 weeks at the bottom of that seabag.
The night preceding our Christmas leave, our thoughts were, as always, on home. The
barracks were quiet. Suddenly I became aware that my buddy in the adjoining bunka
member of the Church, Leland Merrillwas moaning in pain. I asked, Whats the matter,
Merrill?
He replied, Im sick. Im really sick.
I advised him to go to the base dispensary, but he answered knowingly that such a
course would prevent him from being home for Christmas. I then suggested he be quiet
so that we didnt awaken the entire barracks.
The hours lengthened; his groans grew louder. Then, in desperation, he whispered,
Monson, arent you an elder? I acknowledged this to be so, whereupon he pleaded,
Give me a blessing.
I became very much aware that I had never given a blessing. I had never received such a
blessing; I had never witnessed a blessing being given. My prayer to God was a plea for
help. The answer came: Look in the bottom of the seabag. Thus, at 2:00 a.m. I emptied
on the deck the contents of the bag. I then took to the night-light that hard, rectangular
object, The Missionarys Hand Book, and read how one blesses the sick. With about 120
curious sailors looking on, I proceeded with the blessing. Before I could stow my gear,
Leland Merrill was sleeping like a child.
The next morning, Merrill smilingly turned to me and said, Monson, Im glad you hold
the priesthood! His gladness was only surpassed by my gratitudegratitude not only
for the priesthood but for being worthy to receive the help I required in a time of
desperate need and to exercise the power of the priesthood.
Brethren, our Lord and Savior said, Come, follow me. 6 When we accept His invitation
and walk in His footsteps, He will direct our paths.
In April of 2000, I felt such direction. I had received a phone call from Rosa Salas Gifford,
whom I did not know. She explained that her parents had been visiting from Costa Rica
for a few months and that just a week prior to her call, her father, Bernardo Agusto
Salas, had been diagnosed with liver cancer. She indicated that the doctors had informed
the family that her father would live just a few more days. Her fathers great desire, she
explained, was to meet me before he died. She left her address and asked if I could come
to her home in Salt Lake City to visit with her father.
Because of meetings and obligations, it was rather late when I left my office. Instead of
going straight home, however, I felt impressed that I should drive further south and visit
Brother Salas that very evening. With the address in hand, I attempted to locate the
residence. In rather heavy traffic and with dimming light, I drove past the location where
the road to the house should have been. I could see nothing. However, I dont give up
easily. I drove around the block and came back. Still nothing. One more time I tried and
still no sign of the road. I began to feel that I would be justified in turning toward home. I
had made a gallant effort but had been unsuccessful in finding the address. Instead, I
offered a silent prayer for help. The inspiration came that I should approach the area

from the opposite direction. I drove a distance and turned the car around so that I was
now on the other side of the road. Going in this direction, the traffic was much lighter. As
I neared the location once again, I could see, through the faint light, a street sign that
had been knocked downit was lying on its side at the edge of the roadand a nearly
invisible, weed-covered track leading to a small apartment building and a single, tiny
residence some distance from the main road. As I drove toward the buildings, a small girl
in a white dress waved to me, and I knew that I had found the family.
I was ushered into the home and then to the room where Brother Salas lay. Surrounding
the bed were three daughters and a son-in-law, as well as Sister Salas. All but the son-inlaw were from Costa Rica. Brother Salass appearance reflected the gravity of his
condition. A damp rag with frayed edgesnot a towel or a washcloth but a damp rag
with frayed edgesrested upon his forehead, emphasizing the humble economic
circumstances of the family.
With some prompting, Brother Salas opened his eyes, and a wan smile graced his lips as
I took him by the hand. I spoke the words, I have come to meet you. Tears welled up in
his eyes and in mine.
I asked if a blessing would be desired, and the unanimous answer from the family
members was affirmative. Since the son-in-law did not hold the priesthood, I proceeded
by myself to provide a priesthood blessing. The words seemed to flow freely under the
direction of the Spirit of the Lord. I included the Saviors words found in the Doctrine and
Covenants, section 84, verse 88: I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand
and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you,
to bear you up. Following the blessing, I offered a few words of comfort to the grieving
family members. I spoke carefully so they could understand my English. And then, with
my limited Spanish language ability, I let them know that I loved them and that our
Heavenly Father would bless them.
I asked for the family Bible and directed their attention to 3 John, verse 4: I have no
greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. I said to them, This is what your
husband and father would have you remember as he prepares to depart this earthly
existence.
With tears streaming down her face, Brother Salass sweet wife then asked if I would
write down the references for the two scriptures I had shared with them so that the
family might read them again. Not having anything handy on which I could write, Sister
Salas reached into her purse and drew from it a slip of paper. As I took it from her, I
noticed it was a tithing receipt. My heart was touched as I realized that, despite the
extremely humble circumstances in which the family lived, they were faithful in paying
their tithes.
After a tender farewell, I was escorted to my car. As I drove homeward, I reflected on the
special spirit we had felt. I experienced, as well, as I have many times before, a sense of
gratitude that my Heavenly Father had answered another persons prayer through me.
My brethren, let us ever remember that the priesthood of God which we bear is a sacred
gift which brings to us and to those we serve the blessings of heaven. May we, in
whatever place we may be, honor and protect that priesthood. May we ever be on the
Lords errand, that we might ever be entitled to the Lords help.

There is a war being waged for mens soulsyours and mine. It continues without
abatement. Like a clarion call comes the word of the Lord to you and to me and to
priesthood holders everywhere: Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act
in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence. 7
May we each have the courage to do so, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2007 General Conference

Three Goals to Guide You

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
Your influence ranges far beyond yourself and your home and touches
others all around the globe.
This evening our souls have reached toward heaven. We have been blessed with
beautiful music and inspired messages. The Spirit of the Lord is here.
Sisters Julie Beck, Silvia Allred, Barbara Thompsonthank heaven for your dear mothers
and fathers, your teachers, your youth leaders, and others who recognized in you your
potential.
To paraphrase a thought:
You never know what a girl is worth,
Youll have to wait and see;
But every woman in a noble place,
A girl once used to be. 1
It is a great privilege for me to be with you. I recognize that beyond you who are
gathered in the Conference Center, there are many thousands watching and listening to
the proceedings by way of satellite transmission.
As I speak to you, I realize that as a man I am in the minority and must be cautious in my
comments. Im reminded of the man who walked into a bookstore and asked the clerka
womanfor help: Have you got a book titled Man, the Master of Women? The clerk
looked him straight in the eye and said sarcastically, Try the fiction section!
I assure you tonight that I honor you, the women of the Church, and am well aware, to
quote William R. Wallace, that the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the
world. 2

In 1901 President Lorenzo Snow said: The members of the Relief Society have
ministered to those in affliction, they have thrown their arms of love around the
fatherless and the widows, and they have kept themselves unspotted from the world. I
can testify that there are no purer and more God-fearing women in the world than are to
be found within the ranks of the Relief Society. 3
As in President Snows time, there are, here and now, visits to be made, greetings to be
shared, and hungry souls to be fed. As I contemplate the Relief Society of today,
humbled by my privilege to speak to you, I turn to our Heavenly Father for His divine
guidance.
In this spirit, I have felt to provide each member of the Relief Society throughout the
world three goals to meet:
1. Study diligently.
2. Pray earnestly.
3. Serve willingly.
Let us consider each of these goals. First, study diligently. The Savior of the world
instructed: Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by
study and also by faith. 4 He added: Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have
eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 5
A study of the scriptures will help our testimonies and the testimonies of our family
members. Our children today are growing up surrounded by voices urging them to
abandon that which is right and to pursue, instead, the pleasures of the world. Unless
they have a firm foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ, a testimony of the truth, and a
determination to live righteously, they are susceptible to these influences. It is our
responsibility to fortify and protect them.
To an alarming extent, our children today are being educated by the media, including the
Internet. In the United States, it is reported that the average child watches
approximately four hours of television daily, much of the programming being filled with
violence, alcohol and drug use, and sexual content. Watching movies and playing video
games is in addition to the four hours. 6 And the statistics are much the same for other
developed countries. The messages portrayed on television, in movies, and in other
media are very often in direct opposition to that which we want our children to embrace
and hold dear. It is our responsibility not only to teach them to be sound in spirit and
doctrine but also to help them stay that way, regardless of the outside forces they may
encounter. This will require much time and effort on our partand in order to help
others, we ourselves need the spiritual and moral courage to withstand the evil we see
on every side.
We live in the time spoken of in 2 Nephi, chapter 9:
O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned
they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it
aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it
profiteth them not. And they shall perish.

But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God. 7

Required is the courage to hold fast to our standards despite the derision of the world.
Said President J. Reuben Clark Jr., for many years a member of the First Presidency: Not
unknown are cases where [those] of presumed faith have felt that, since by affirming
their full faith they might call down upon themselves the ridicule of their unbelieving
colleagues, they must either modify or explain away their faith or destructively dilute it,
or even pretend to cast it away. Such are hypocrites. 8
There comes to mind the powerful verses found in 2 Timothy, in the New Testament,
chapter 1, verses 7 and 8:
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound
mind.
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.
Beyond our study of spiritual matters, secular learning is also essential. Often the future
is unknown; therefore, it behooves us to prepare for uncertainties. Statistics reveal that
at some time, because of the illness or death of a husband or because of economic
necessity, you may find yourself in the role of financial provider. Some of you already
occupy that role. I urge you to pursue your educationif you are not already doing so or
have not done sothat you might be prepared to provide if circumstances necessitate
such.
Your talents will expand as you study and learn. You will be able to better assist your
families in their learning, and you will have peace of mind in knowing that you have
prepared yourself for the eventualities that you may encounter in life.
I reiterate: Study diligently.
The second goal I wish to mention: Pray earnestly. The Lord directed, Pray always, and I
will pour out my Spirit upon you, and great shall be your blessing. 9
Perhaps there has never been a time when we had greater need to pray and to teach our
family members to pray. Prayer is a defense against temptation. It is through earnest and
heartfelt prayer that we can receive the needed blessings and the support required to
make our way in this sometimes difficult and challenging journey we call mortality.
We can teach the importance of prayer to our children and grandchildren both by word
and by example. I share with you a lesson in teaching by example as described in a
mothers letter to me relating to prayer. Dear President Monson: Sometimes I wonder if I
make a difference in my childrens lives. Especially as a single mother working two jobs
to make ends meet, I sometimes come home to confusion, but I never give up hope.
Her letter continues as she describes how she and her children were watching general
conference, where I was speaking about prayer. Her son made the comment, Mother,
youve already taught us that. She asked, What do you mean? Her son replied, Well,
youve taught us to pray and showed us how, but the other night I came to your room to
ask something and found you on your knees praying to Heavenly Father. If Hes
important to you, Hell be important to me. The letter concluded, I guess you never

know what kind of influence youll be until a child observes you doing yourself what you
have tried to teach him to do.
Some years ago, just before leaving Salt Lake to attend the annual meetings of Boy
Scouts of America in Atlanta, Georgia, I decided to take with me enough copies of the
New Era so that I might share with Scouting officials this excellent publication. When I
arrived at the hotel in Atlanta, I opened the package of magazines. I found that my
secretary, for no accountable reason, had put in the package two extra copies of the June
issue, an issue that featured temple marriage. I left the two copies in the hotel room and,
as planned, distributed the other copies.
On the final day of meetings, I had no desire to attend the scheduled luncheon but felt
compelled to return to my room. The telephone was ringing as I entered. The caller was a
member of the Church who had heard I was in Atlanta. She introduced herself and asked
if I could provide a blessing for her 10-year-old daughter. I agreed readily, and she
indicated that she and her husband, their daughter, and their son would come
immediately to my hotel room. As I waited, I prayed for help. The applause of the
convention was replaced by the feelings of peace which accompanied prayer.
Then came the knock at the door and the privilege which was mine to meet a choice
family. The 10-year-old daughter walked with the aid of crutches. Cancer had required
the amputation of her left leg; however, her countenance was radiant, her trust in God
unwavering. A blessing was provided. Mother and son knelt by the side of the bed while
the father and I placed our hands on the tiny daughter. We were directed by the Spirit of
God. We were humbled by its power.
I felt the tears course down my cheeks and tumble upon my hands as they rested on the
head of that beautiful child of God. I spoke of eternal ordinances and family exaltation.
The Lord prompted me to urge this family to enter the holy temple of God. At the
conclusion of the blessing, I learned that such a temple visit was planned. Questions
pertaining to the temple were asked. I heard no heavenly voice, nor did I see a vision. Yet
there came clearly into my mind the words, Refer to the New Era. I looked toward the
dresser, and there were the two extra copies of the temple issue of the New Era. One
copy was given to the daughter and the other to her parents. We reviewed them
together.
The family said farewell, and once again the room was still. A prayer of gratitude came
easily and, once more, the resolve to ever provide a place for prayer.
My dear sisters, do not pray for tasks equal to your abilities, but pray for abilities equal
to your tasks. Then the performance of your tasks will be no miracle, but you will be the
miracle.
Pray earnestly.
Finally, serve willingly. You are a mighty force for good, one of the most powerful in the
entire world. Your influence ranges far beyond yourself and your home and touches
others all around the globe. You have reached out to your brothers and sisters across
streets, across cities, across nations, across continents, across oceans. You personify the
Relief Society motto: Charity never faileth.

You are, of course, surrounded by opportunities for service. No doubt at times you
recognize so many such opportunities that you may feel somewhat overwhelmed. Where
do you begin? How can you do it all? How do you choose, from all the needs you
observe, where and how to serve?
Often small acts of service are all that is required to lift and bless another: a question
concerning a persons family, quick words of encouragement, a sincere compliment, a
small note of thanks, a brief telephone call. If we are observant and aware, and if we act
on the promptings which come to us, we can accomplish much good. Sometimes, of
course, more is needed.
I learned recently of loving service given to a mother when her children were very young.
Frequently she would be up in the middle of the night tending to the needs of her little
ones, as mothers do. Often her friend and neighbor across the street would come over
the next day and say, I saw your lights on in the middle of the night and know you were
up with the children. Im going to take them to my house for a couple of hours while you
take a nap. Said this grateful mother: I was so thankful for her welcome offer, it wasnt
until this had happened many times that I realized if she had seen my lights on in the
middle of the night, she was up with one of her children as well and needed a nap just as
much as I did. She taught me a great lesson, and Ive since tried to be as observant as
she was in looking for opportunities to serve others.
Countless are the acts of service provided by the vast army of Relief Society visiting
teachers. A few years ago I heard of two of them who aided a grieving widow, Angela,
the granddaughter of a cousin of mine. Angelas husband and a friend of his had gone
snowmobiling and had become victims of suffocation through a snowslide. Each of them
left a pregnant wifein Angelas case, their first child, and in the other case, a wife not
only expecting a child but also the mother of a toddler. In the funeral held for Angelas
husband, the bishop reported that upon hearing of the tragic accident, he had gone
immediately to Angelas home. Almost as soon as he arrived, the doorbell sounded. The
door was opened, and there stood Angelas two visiting teachers. The bishop said he
watched as they so sincerely expressed to Angela their love and compassion. The three
women cried together, and it was apparent that these two fine visiting teachers cared
deeply about Angela. As perhaps only women can, they gently indicatedwithout being
askedexactly what help they would be providing. That they would be close by as long
as Angela needed them was obvious. The bishop expressed his deep gratitude in
knowing they would be a real source of comfort to her in the days ahead.
Such acts of love and compassion are repeated again and again by the wonderful visiting
teachers of this Churchnot always in such dramatic situations but just as genuinely,
nevertheless.
I extol you who, with loving care and compassionate concern, feed the hungry, clothe the
naked, and house the homeless. He who notes the sparrows fall will not be unmindful of
such service. The desire to lift, the willingness to help, and the graciousness to give
come from a heart filled with love. Serve willingly.
Our beloved prophet, even President Gordon B. Hinckley, said of you, God planted
within women something divine that expresses itself in quiet strength, in refinement, in
peace, in goodness, in virtue, in truth, in love. 10

My dear sisters, may our Heavenly Father bless each of you, married or single, in your
homes, in your families, in your very livesthat you may merit the glorious salutation of
the Savior of the World: Well done, thou good and faithful servant 11 I pray, as I bless
you and also the dear wife of James E. Faust, his beloved Ruth, who is here tonight on the
front row, and their family, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2007 General Conference

Mrs. Pattonthe Story Continues

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
I am certain our Heavenly Father was mindful of her needs and wanted her
to hear the comforting truths of the gospel.
I miss my colleague James E. Faust today and express my love to his dear wife and family
and am assured he is serving the Lord elsewhere. I welcome the newly sustained General
Authorities, President Eyring, Elder Cook, and Elder Gonzlez, and assure them they have
my full support.
Thirty-eight years ago, at a general conference held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square,
I spoke of one of my childhood friends, Arthur Patton, who died at a young age. The talk
was titled Mrs. Patton, Arthur Lives. 1 I addressed my remarks to Arthurs mother, Mrs.
Patton, who was not a member of the Church. Although I had little hope that Mrs. Patton
would actually hear my talk, I wanted to share with all who were within the sound of my
voice the glorious gospel message of hope and love. Recently I have felt impressed to
refer once again to Arthur and to relate to you what transpired following my original
message.
First, may I tell you about Arthur. He had blond, curly hair and a smile as big as all
outdoors. He stood taller than any boy in the class. I suppose this is how, in 1940, as the
great conflict which became World War II was overtaking much of Europe, Arthur was
able to fool the recruiting officers and enlist in the navy at the tender age of 15. To
Arthur and most of the boys, the war was a great adventure. I remember how striking he
appeared in his navy uniform. How we wished we were older or at least taller so we too
could enlist.
Youth is a very special time of life. As Longfellow wrote:
How beautiful is youth! how bright it gleams
With its illusions, aspirations, dreams!
Book of Beginnings, Story without End,
Each maid a heroine, and each man a friend!

Arthurs mother was so proud of the blue star which graced her living room window. It
represented to every passerby that her son wore the uniform of his country and was
actively serving. When I would pass the house, she often opened the door and invited

me in to read the latest letter from Arthur. Her eyes would fill with tears; I would then be
asked to read aloud. Arthur meant everything to his widowed mother.
I can still picture Mrs. Pattons coarse hands as she would carefully replace the letter in
its envelope. These were hardworking hands; Mrs. Patton was a cleaning woman for a
downtown office building. Each day of her life except Sundays she could be seen walking
along the sidewalk, pail and brush in hand, her gray hair pulled back into a tight bob, her
shoulders weary from work and stooped with age.
In March 1944, with the war now raging, Arthur was transferred from the USS Dorsey, a
destroyer, to the USS White Plains, an aircraft carrier. While at Saipan in the South
Pacific, the ship was attacked. Arthur was one of those on board who was lost at sea.
The blue star was taken from its hallowed spot in the front window of the Patton home. It
was replaced by one of gold, indicating that he whom the blue star represented had
been killed in battle. A light went out in the life of Mrs. Patton. She groped in utter
darkness and deep despair.
With a prayer in my heart, I approached the familiar walkway to the Patton home,
wondering what words of comfort could come from the lips of a mere boy.
The door opened, and Mrs. Patton embraced me as she would her own son. Home
became a chapel as a grief-stricken mother and a less-than-adequate boy knelt in prayer.
Arising from our knees, Mrs. Patton gazed into my eyes and spoke: Tommy, I belong to
no church, but you do. Tell me, will Arthur live again? To the best of my ability, I testified
to her that Arthur would indeed live again.
In general conference those long years ago, as I related this account, I mentioned that I
had lost track of Mrs. Patton but that I wanted to once more answer her question Will
Arthur live again?
I referred to the Savior of the world, who walked the dusty paths of villages we now
reverently call the Holy Land; who caused the blind to see, the deaf to hear, the lame to
walk, and the dead to live; to Him who tenderly and lovingly assured us, I am the way,
the truth, and the life. 3
I explained that the plan of life and an explanation of its eternal course come to us from
the Master of heaven and earth, even Jesus Christ the Lord. To understand the meaning
of death, we must appreciate the purpose of life.
I indicated that in this dispensation, the Lord declared: And now, verily I say unto you, I
was in the beginning with the Father, and am the Firstborn. 4 Man was also in the
beginning with God. 5
Jeremiah the prophet recorded:
The word of the Lord came unto me, saying,
Before I formed thee I knew thee; and before thou camest forth I sanctified thee,
and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. 6

From that majestic world of spirits we enter the grand stage of life to prove ourselves
obedient to all things commanded of God. During mortality we grow from helpless
infancy to inquiring childhood and then to reflective maturity. We experience joy and
sorrow, fulfillment and disappointment, success and failure. We taste the sweet, yet
sample the bitter. This is mortality.
Then to each life comes the experience known as death. None is exempt. All must pass
its portals.
To most, there is something sinister and mysterious about this unwelcome visitor called
death. Perhaps it is a fear of the unknown which causes many to dread its coming.
Arthur Patton died quickly. Others linger. We know, through the revealed word of God,
that the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, are
taken home to that God who gave them life. 7
I assured Mrs. Patton and all others who were listening that God would never forsake
themthat He sent His Only Begotten Son into the world to teach us by example the life
we should live. His Son died upon the cross to redeem all mankind. His words to the
grieving Martha and to His disciples today bring comfort to us:
I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet
shall he live:
And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. 8
In my Fathers house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to
prepare a place for you.
I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be
also. 9
I reiterated the testimonies of John the Revelator and Paul the Apostle. John recorded:
I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God;
And the sea gave up the dead which were in it. 10
Paul declared: As in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 11
I explained that until the glorious Resurrection morning, we walk by faith. For now we
see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face. 12
I reassured Mrs. Patton that Jesus invited her and all others:
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall
find rest unto your souls. 13

As part of my message, I explained to Mrs. Patton that such knowledge would sustain her
in her heartachethat she would never be in the tragic situation of the disbeliever who,
having lost a son, was heard to say as she watched the casket lowered into mother
earth: Good-bye, my boy. Good-bye forever. Rather, with head erect, courage
undaunted, and faith unwavering, she could lift her eyes as she looked beyond the gently
breaking waves of the blue Pacific and whisper, Good-bye, Arthur, my precious son.
Good-byeuntil we meet again.
I quoted the words of Tennyson, as though spoken to her by Arthur:
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar. 14
As I concluded my message those long years ago, I expressed to Mrs. Patton my personal
testimony as a special witness, telling her that God our Father was mindful of herthat
through sincere prayer she could communicate with Him; that He too had a Son who
died, even Jesus Christ the Lord; that He is our advocate with the Father, the Prince of
Peace, our Savior and divine Redeemer, and one day we would see Him face-to-face.
I hoped that my message to Mrs. Patton would reach and touch others who had lost a
loved one.
And now, my brothers and sisters, I share with you the rest of this account. I delivered
my message on April 6, 1969. Again, I had little or no hope that Mrs. Patton would
actually hear the talk. I had no reason to think she would listen to general conference. As
I have mentioned, she was not a member of the Church. And then I learned that
something akin to a miracle had taken place. Having no idea whatsoever who would be
speaking at conference or what subjects they might speak about, Latter-day Saint
neighbors of Mrs. Terese Patton in California, where she had moved, invited her to their
home to listen to a session of conference with them. She accepted their invitation and
thus was listening to the very session where I directed my remarks to her personally.
During the first week of May 1969, to my astonishment and joy, I received a letter
postmarked Pomona, California, and dated April 29, 1969. It was from Mrs. Terese Patton.
I share with you a part of that letter:
Dear Tommy,
I hope you dont mind my calling you Tommy, as I always think of you that way. I dont
know how to thank you for the comforting talk you gave.

Arthur was 15 years old when he enlisted in the navy. He was killed one month before
his 19th birthday on July 5, 1944.
It was wonderful of you to think of us. I dont know how to thank you for your comforting
words, both when Arthur died and again in your talk. I have had many questions over the
years, and you have answered them. I am now at peace concerning Arthur. God bless
and keep you always.
Love,
Terese Patton 15
My brothers and sisters, I do not believe it was a coincidence that I was impressed to
give that particular message at the April 1969 general conference. Nor do I believe it was
a coincidence that Mrs. Terese Patton was invited by neighbors to join them in their home
for that particular session of conference. I am certain our Heavenly Father was mindful of
her needs and wanted her to hear the comforting truths of the gospel.
Although Mrs. Patton has long since left mortality, I have felt a strong impression to
share with you the manner in which our Heavenly Father blessed and provided for her, a
widow, in her need. With all the strength of my soul I testify that our Heavenly Father
loves each one of us. He hears the prayers of humble hearts; He hears our cries for help,
as He heard Mrs. Patton. His Son, our Savior and Redeemer, speaks to each of us today:
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I
will come in to him. 16
Will we listen for that knock? Will we hear that voice? Will we open that door to the Lord,
that we may receive the help He is so ready to provide? I pray that we will, in the sacred
name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2007 General Conference

A Royal Priesthood

Thomas S. Monson
First Counselor in the First Presidency
Times may change, circumstances may alter, but the marks of a true holder
of the priesthood of God remain constant.
Brethren, as I gaze from one end to the other of this majestic building, I can only say,
you are an inspiring sight to behold. It is amazing to realize that in thousands of chapels
throughout the world, others of youholders of the priesthood of Godare receiving this
broadcast by way of satellite transmission. Nationalities vary and languages are many,
but a common thread binds us together. We have been entrusted to bear the priesthood
and to act in the name of God. We are the recipients of a sacred trust. Much is expected
of us.

We who hold the priesthood of God and honor it are among those who have been
reserved for this special period in history. The Apostle Peter described us in the second
chapter of 1 Peter, the ninth verse: Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an
holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath
called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
How might you and I qualify ourselves to be worthy of that designation, a royal
priesthood? What are the characteristics of a true son of the living God? Tonight I would
like us to consider just some of those very characteristics.
Times may change, circumstances may alter, but the marks of a true holder of the
priesthood of God remain constant.
May I suggest that first of all every one of us develop the mark of vision. One writer said
that the door of history turns on small hinges, and so do peoples lives. If we were to
apply that maxim to our lives, we could say that we are the result of many small
decisions. In effect, we are the product of our choices. We must develop the capacity to
recall the past, to evaluate the present, and to look into the future in order to accomplish
in our lives what the Lord would have us do.
You young men holding the Aaronic Priesthood should have the ability to envision the
day when you will hold the Melchizedek Priesthood and then prepare yourselves as
deacons, as teachers, as priests to receive the holy Melchizedek Priesthood of God. You
have the responsibility to be ready, when you receive the Melchizedek Priesthood, to
respond to a call to serve as a missionary by accepting it and then fulfilling it. How I pray
that every boy and every man will have the mark of vision.
The second principle I should like to emphasize as a characteristic of a true priesthood
holder of God is the mark of effort. It is not enough to want to make the effort and to say
well make the effort. We must actually make the effort. Its in the doing, not just the
thinking, that we accomplish our goals. If we constantly put our goals off, we will never
see them fulfilled. Someone put it this way: Live only for tomorrow, and you will have a
lot of empty yesterdays today. 1
In July of 1976, runner Garry Bjorklund was determined to qualify for the U.S. Olympic
teams 10,000-meter race which would be run at the Montreal Olympics. Halfway
through the grinding qualifying race, however, he lost his left shoe. What would you and I
do if that were our experience? I suppose he could have given up and stopped. He could
have blamed his bad luck and lost the opportunity of participating in the greatest race of
his life, but this champion athlete did not do that. He ran on without his shoe. He knew
that he would have to run faster than he had ever run in his life. He knew that his
competitors now had an advantage that they did not have at the beginning of the race.
Over that cinder track he ran, with one shoe on and one shoe off, finishing third and
qualifying for the opportunity to participate in the race for the gold medal. His own
running time was the best he had ever recorded. He put forth the effort necessary to
achieve his goal.
As priesthood holders, we may find that there are times in our lives when we falter, when
we become weary or fatigued, or when we suffer a disappointment or a heartache. When
that happens, I would hope that we will persevere with even greater effort toward our
goal.

At one time or another each of us will be called to fill a position in the Church, whether as
a deacons quorum president, a teachers quorum secretary, a priesthood adviser, a class
teacher, a bishop. I could name more, but you get the picture. I was just 22 years of age
when I was called to be the bishop of the Sixth-Seventh Ward in Salt Lake City. With
1,080 members in the ward, a great deal of effort was required to make certain that
every matter which needed to be handled was taken care of and every member of the
ward felt included and watched over. Although the assignment was monumental in
scope, I did not let it overwhelm me. I went to work, as did others, and did all I could to
serve. Each of us can do the same, regardless of the calling or assignment.
Just last year I decided to see how many residential dwellings were still standing from the
period between 1950 and 1955 when I served as bishop of that same area. I drove slowly
around each of the blocks that once comprised the ward. I was surprised to observe in
my search that of all the houses and apartment buildings where our 1,080 members had
lived, only three dwellings were still standing. At one of those houses, the grass was
overgrown, the trees unpruned, and I found no one was living there. Of the other two
houses remaining, one was boarded up and unoccupied, and the other housed some sort
of a modest business office.
I parked my car, turned off the ignition, and just sat there for a long while. I could picture
in my mind each house, each apartment building, each member who lived there. While
the homes and the buildings were gone, the memories were still very vivid concerning
the families who resided in each dwelling. I thought of the words of the author James
Barrie, who wrote that God gave us memories that we might have June roses in the
December of our lives. 2 How grateful I was for the opportunity to serve in that
assignment. Such can be the blessing of each of us if we put forth in our assignments our
very best efforts.
The mark of effort is required of every priesthood holder.
The third principle I would like to emphasize is the mark of faith. We must have faith in
ourselves, faith in the ability of our Heavenly Father to bless us and to guide us in our
endeavors. Many years ago the writer of a psalm wrote a beautiful truth: It is better to
trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put
confidence in princes. 3 In other words, let us put our confidence in the ability of the Lord
to guide us. Friendships, we know, may alter and change, but the Lord is constant.
Shakespeare, in his play King Henry the Eighth, taught this truth through Cardinal Wolsey
a man who enjoyed great prestige and pride because of his friendship with the king.
When the friendship ended, Cardinal Wolsey was stripped of his authority, resulting in a
loss of prominence and prestige. He was one who had gained everything and then lost
all. In the sorrow of his heart, he spoke a real truth to his servant, Cromwell. He said:
O Cromwell, Cromwell!
Had I but served my God with half the zeal
I served my king, He would not in mine age
Have left me naked to mine enemies. 4
I trust we shall have the mark of faith in every heart represented here tonight.

I add to my list the mark of virtue. The Lord indicated that we should let virtue garnish
our thoughts unceasingly. 5
I recall a priesthood meeting held in the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City when I was a holder
of the Aaronic Priesthood. The President of the Church was speaking to the priesthood,
and he made a statement I have never forgotten. He said, in essence, that men who
commit sexual sin or other sins do not do so in the twinkling of an eye. He emphasized
that our actions are preceded by our thoughts, and when we commit sin, it is because we
have first thought of committing that particular sin. Then the President declared that the
way to avoid sin is to keep our thinking pure. The scripture tells us that as we think in our
hearts, so are we. 6 We must have the mark of virtue.
If we are to be missionaries in the kingdom of our Heavenly Father, we must be entitled
to the companionship of His Holy Spirit, and we have been told precisely that His Spirit
will not dwell in impure or unholy tabernacles.
Finally, may I add the mark of prayer. The desire to communicate with ones Heavenly
Father is a mark of a true priesthood holder of God.
As we offer unto the Lord our family and our personal prayers, let us do so with faith and
trust in Him. Let us remember the injunction of the Apostle Paul to the Hebrews: For he
that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that
diligently seek him. 7 If any of us has been slow to hearken to the counsel to pray
always, there is no finer hour to begin than now. William Cowper declared, Satan
trembles when he sees the weakest saint upon his knees. 8 Those who feel that prayer
might denote a physical weakness should consider that a man never stands taller than
when he is upon his knees.
May we ever remember:
Prayer is the souls sincere desire,
Uttered or unexpressed,
The motion of a hidden fire
That trembles in the breast.
O thou by whom we come to God,
The Life, the Truth, the Way!
The path of prayer thyself hast trod;
Lord, teach us how to pray. 9
As we cultivate the mark of prayer, we will receive the blessings our Heavenly Father has
for us.
In conclusion, may we have vision. May we put forth effort. May we exemplify faith and
virtue and ever make prayer a part of our lives. Then we shall indeed be a royal
priesthood. This would be my prayer, my personal prayer this evening, and I offer it from
my heart in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2008 General Conference

Examples of Righteousness
President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
It is our duty to live our lives in such a way that we may be examples of
righteousness.
Tonight I am aware that you, my brethren, both here in the Conference Center and in
thousands of other locations, represent the largest gathering of the priesthood ever to
assemble. We are a part of the greatest brotherhood in all the world. How fortunate and
blessed we are to be holders of the priesthood of God.
We have been instructed and uplifted as we have listened to inspired messages. I pray
that I might have an interest in your faith and prayers as I share with you those thoughts
and feelings that have been in my mind lately as I have prepared to address you.
As bearers of the priesthood, we have been placed on earth in troubled times. We live in
a complex world with currents of conflict everywhere to be found. Political machinations
ruin the stability of nations, despots grasp for power, and segments of society seem
forever downtrodden, deprived of opportunity, and left with a feeling of failure.
We who have been ordained to the priesthood of God can make a difference. When we
qualify for the help of the Lord, we can build boys, we can mend men, we can accomplish
miracles in His holy service. Our opportunities are without limit.
Ours is the task to be fitting examples. We are strengthened by the truth that the
greatest force in the world today is the power of God as it works through man. If we are
on the Lords errand, brethren, we are entitled to the Lords help. Never forget that truth.
That divine help, of course, is predicated upon our worthiness. Each must ask: Are my
hands clean? Is my heart pure? Am I a worthy servant of the Lord?
We are surrounded by so much that is designed to divert our attention from those things
which are virtuous and good and to tempt us with that which would cause us to be
unworthy to exercise the priesthood we bear. I speak not just to the young men of the
Aaronic Priesthood but to those of all ages. Temptations come in various forms
throughout our lives.
Brethren, are we qualified at all times to perform the sacred duties associated with the
priesthood we bear? Young menyou who are priestsare you clean in body and spirit
as you sit at the sacrament table on Sunday and bless the emblems of the sacrament?
Young men who are teachers, are you worthy to prepare the sacrament? Deacons, as you
pass the sacrament to the members of the Church, do you do so knowing that you are
spiritually qualified to do so? Does each of you fully understand the importance of all the
sacred duties you perform?
My young friends, be strong. The philosophies of men surround us. The face of sin today
often wears the mask of tolerance. Do not be deceived; behind that facade is heartache,
unhappiness, and pain. You know what is right and what is wrong, and no disguise,

however appealing, can change that. The character of transgression remains the same. If
your so-called friends urge you to do anything you know to be wrong, you be the one to
make a stand for right, even if you stand alone. Have the moral courage to be a light for
others to follow. There is no friendship more valuable than your own clear conscience,
your own moral cleanlinessand what a glorious feeling it is to know that you stand in
your appointed place clean and with the confidence that you are worthy to do so.
Brethren of the Melchizedek Priesthood, do you strive diligently each day to live as you
should? Are you kind and loving to your wife and your children? Are you honest in your
dealings with those around youat all times and in all circumstances?
If any of you has slipped along the way, there are those who will help you to once again
become clean and worthy. Your bishop or branch president is anxious and willing to help
and will, with understanding and compassion, do all within his power to assist you in the
repentance process, that you may once again stand in righteousness before the Lord.
Many of you will remember President N. Eldon Tanner, who served as a counselor to four
Presidents of the Church. He provided an undeviating example of righteousness
throughout a career in industry, during service in the government in Canada, and
consistently in his private life. He gave us this inspired counsel:
Nothing will bring greater joy and success than to live according to the teachings of the
gospel. Be an example; be an influence for good.
Every one of us has been foreordained for some work as [Gods] chosen servant on
whom he has seen fit to confer the priesthood and power to act in his name. Always
remember that people are looking to you for leadership and you are influencing the lives
of individuals either for good or for bad, which influence will be felt for generations to
come.
1

My brethren, I reiterate that, as holders of the priesthood of God, it is our duty to live our
lives in such a way that we may be examples of righteousness for others to follow. As I
have pondered how we might best provide such examples, I have thought of an
experience I had some years ago while attending a stake conference. During the general
session, I observed a young boy sitting with his family on the front row of the stake
center. I was seated on the stand. As the meeting progressed, I began to notice that if I
crossed one leg over the other, the young boy would do the same thing. If I reversed the
motion and crossed the other leg, he would follow suit. I would put my hands in my lap,
and he would do the same. I rested my chin in my hand, and he also did so. Whatever I
did, he would imitate my actions. This continued until the time approached for me to
address the congregation. I decided to put him to the test. I looked squarely at him,
certain I had his attention, and then I wiggled my ears. He made a vain attempt to do the
same, but I had him! He just couldnt quite get his ears to wiggle. He turned to his father,
who was sitting next to him, and whispered something to him. He pointed to his ears and
then to me. As his father looked in my direction, obviously to see my ears wiggle, I sat
solemnly with my arms folded, not moving a muscle. The father glanced back skeptically
at his son, who looked slightly defeated. He finally gave me a sheepish grin and
shrugged his shoulders.
I have thought about that experience over the years as Ive contemplated how,
particularly when were young, we tend to imitate the example of our parents, our

leaders, our peers. The prophet Brigham Young said: We should never permit ourselves
to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do. We should set them an
example that we wish them to imitate.
2

To you who are fathers of boys or who are leaders of boys, I say, strive to be the kind of
example the boys need. The father, of course, should be the prime example, and the boy
who is blessed with a worthy father is fortunate indeed. Even an exemplary family,
however, with diligent and faithful father and mother, can use all the supportive help
they can get from good men who genuinely care. There is also the boy who has no father
or whose father is not currently providing the type of example needed. For that boy, the
Lord has provided a network of helpers within the Churchbishops, advisers, teachers,
Scoutmasters, home teachers. When the Lords program is in effect and properly
working, no young man in the Church should be without the influence of good men in his
life.
The effectiveness of an inspired bishop, adviser, or teacher has very little to do with the
outward trappings of power or an abundance of this worlds goods. The leaders who have
the most influence are usually those who set hearts afire with devotion to the truth, who
make obedience to duty seem the essence of manhood, who transform some ordinary
routine occurrence so that it becomes a vista where we see the person we aspire to be.
Not to be overlookedand in fact our primary exampleis our Savior, Jesus Christ. His
birth was foretold by prophets; angels heralded the announcement of His earthly
ministry. He grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God
was upon him.
3

Baptized of John in the river known as Jordan, He commenced His official ministry to
men. To the sophistry of Satan, Jesus turned His back. To the duty designated by His
Father, He turned His face, pledged His heart, and gave His life. And what a sinless,
selfless, noble, and divine life it was. Jesus labored. Jesus loved. Jesus served. Jesus
testified. What finer example could we strive to emulate? Let us begin now, this very
night, to do so. Cast off forever will be the old self and with it defeat, despair, doubt, and
disbelief. To a newness of life we comea life of faith, hope, courage, and joy. No task
looms too large; no responsibility weighs too heavily; no duty is a burden. All things
become possible.
Many years ago I spoke of one who took his example from the Savior, one who stood firm
and true, strong and worthy through the storms of life. He courageously magnified his
priesthood callings. He provides an example to each of us. His name was Thomas
Michael Wilson, the son of Willie and Julia Wilson of Lafayette, Alabama.
When he was but a teenager and he and his family were not yet members of the Church,
he was stricken with cancer, followed by painful radiation therapy, and then blessed
remission. This illness caused his family to realize that not only is life precious but that it
can also be short. They began to look to religion to help them through this time of
tribulation. Subsequently, they were introduced to the Church, and eventually all but the
father were baptized. After accepting the gospel, young Brother Wilson yearned for the
opportunity of being a missionary, even though he was older than most young men when
they begin their missionary service. At the age of 23, he received a mission call to serve
in the Utah Salt Lake City Mission.

Elder Wilsons missionary companions described his faith as unquestioning, undeviating,

and unyielding. He was an example to all. However, after 11 months of missionary
service, illness returned. Bone cancer now required the amputation of his arm and
shoulder. Yet he persisted in his missionary labors.
Elder Wilsons courage and consuming desire to remain on his mission so touched his
nonmember father that he investigated the teachings of the Church and also became a
member.
I learned that an investigator whom Elder Wilson had taught was baptized but then
wanted to be confirmed by Elder Wilson, whom she respected so much. She, with a few
others, journeyed to Elder Wilsons bedside in the hospital. There, with his remaining
hand resting upon her head, Elder Wilson confirmed her a member of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Elder Wilson continued month after month his precious but painful service as a
missionary. Blessings were given; prayers were offered. Because of his example of
dedication, his fellow missionaries lived closer to God.
Elder Wilsons physical condition deteriorated. The end drew near, and he was to return
home. He asked to serve but one additional month, and his request was granted. He put
his faith in God, and He whom Thomas Michael Wilson silently trusted opened the
windows of heaven and abundantly blessed him. His parents, Willie and Julia Wilson, and
his brother Tony came to Salt Lake City to help their son and brother home to Alabama.
However, there was yet a prayed-for, a yearned-for blessing to be bestowed. The family
invited me to come with them to the Jordan River temple, where those sacred ordinances
which bind families for eternity, as well as for time, were performed.
I said good-bye to the Wilson family. I can see Elder Wilson yet as he thanked me for
being with him and his loved ones. He said, It doesnt matter what happens to us in this
life as long as we have the gospel of Jesus Christ and live it. It doesnt matter whether I
teach the gospel on this or the other side of the veil, so long as I can teach it. What
courage. What confidence. What love. The Wilson family made the long trek home to
Lafayette, where Elder Thomas Michael Wilson slipped from here to eternity. He was
buried there with his missionary tag in place.
My brethren, as we now leave this general priesthood meeting, let us all determine to
prepare for our time of opportunity and to honor the priesthood we bear through the
service we render, the lives we bless, and the souls we are privileged to help save. You
are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, and you can make a
difference. To these truths I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen.
4

April 2008 General Conference

Looking Back and Moving Forward

President Thomas S. Monson

President of the Church

Together we shall move forward doing His work.
I think this has been a remarkable session. The messages have been inspiring; the music
has been beautiful, the testimonies sincere. I think anyone who has attended this session
will never forget itfor the Spirit weve felt.
My beloved brothers and sisters, over 44 years ago, in October of 1963, I stood at the
pulpit in the Tabernacle, having just been sustained as a member of the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles. On that occasion I mentioned a small sign I had seen on another pulpit.
The words on the sign were these: Who stands at this pulpit, let him be humble. I
assure you that I was humbled by my call to the Twelve at that time. However, as I stand
at this pulpit today, I address you from the absolute depths of humility. I feel very keenly
my dependence upon the Lord. I humbly seek the guidance of the Spirit as I share with
you the feelings of my heart.
Just two months ago we said farewell to our dear friend and leader Gordon B. Hinckley,
the 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an outstanding
ambassador of truth to the entire world and beloved of all. We miss him. More than
53,000 men, women, and children journeyed to the beautiful Hall of the Prophets in this
very building to pay their last respects to this giant of the Lord, who now belongs to the
ages.
With the passing of President Hinckley, the First Presidency was dissolved. President
Eyring and I, who served as counselors to President Hinckley, returned to our places in
the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and that quorum became the presiding authority of
the Church.
On Saturday, February 2, 2008, funeral services for President Hinckley were held in this
magnificent Conference Centera building which will ever stand as a monument to his
foresight and vision. During the funeral, beautiful and loving tributes were paid to this
man of God.
The following day, all 14 ordained Apostles living on the earth assembled in an upper
room of the Salt Lake Temple. We met in a spirit of fasting and prayer. During that
solemn and sacred gathering, the Presidency of the Church was reorganized in
accordance with well-established precedent, after the pattern which the Lord Himself put
in place.
Members of the Church around the world convened yesterday in a solemn assembly. You
raised your hands in a sustaining vote to approve the action which was taken in that
meeting in the temple to which I have just referred. As your hands were raised toward
heaven, my heart was touched. I felt your love and support, as well as your commitment
to the Lord.
I know without question, my brothers and sisters, that God lives. I testify to you that this
is His work. I testify as well that our Savior Jesus Christ is at the head of this Church,
which bears His name. I know that the sweetest experience in all this life is to feel His
promptings as He directs us in the furtherance of His work. I felt those promptings as a

young bishop, guided to the homes where there was spiritualor perhaps temporal
want. I felt them again as a mission president in Toronto, Canada, working with wonderful
missionaries who were a living witness and testimony to the world that this work is
divine and that we are led by a prophet. I have felt them throughout my service in the
Twelve and in the First Presidency and now as President of the Church. I testify that each
one of us can feel the Lords inspiration as we live worthily and strive to serve Him.
I am keenly aware of the 15 men who preceded me as President of the Church. Many of
them I have known personally. I have had the blessing and privilege of serving as a
counselor to three of them. I am grateful for the abiding legacy left by each one of those
15 men. I have the sure knowledge, as I am confident they had, that God directs His
prophet. My earnest prayer is that I might continue to be a worthy instrument in His
hands to carry on this great work and to fulfill the tremendous responsibilities which
come with the office of President.
I thank the Lord for wonderful counselors. President Henry B. Eyring and President Dieter
F. Uchtdorf are men of great ability and sound understanding. They are counselors in the
true sense of the word. I value their judgment. I believe they have been prepared by the
Lord for the positions they now occupy. I love the members of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles and treasure my association with them. They, too, are dedicated to the work of
the Lord and are spending their lives in His service. I look forward to serving with Elder
Christofferson, who has now been called to that quorum and who has received your
sustaining vote. He, too, has been prepared for the position to which he has been called.
It has also been a joy to serve with the members of the quorums of the Seventy and with
the Presiding Bishopric. New members of the Seventy have been called and were
sustained yesterday, and I look forward to associating with them in the work of the
Master.
A sweet spirit of unity exists among the General Authorities. The Lord has declared, If ye
are not one ye are not mine. We will continue to be united in one purposenamely, the
furtherance of the work of the Lord.
1

I feel to express thanks to my Heavenly Father for His countless blessings to me. I can
say, as did Nephi of old, that I was born of goodly parents, whose own parents and
grandparents were gathered out of the lands of Sweden and Scotland and England by
dedicated missionaries. As those missionaries bore humble testimonies, they touched
the hearts and the spirits of my forebears. After joining the Church, these noble men,
women, and children made their way to the valley of the Great Salt Lake. Many were the
trials and heartaches they encountered along the way.
In the spring of 1848, my great-great-grandparents, Charles Stewart Miller and Mary
McGowan Miller, who had joined the Church in their native Scotland, left their home in
Rutherglen, Scotland, and journeyed to St. Louis, Missouri, with a group of Saints, arriving
there in 1849. One of their 11 children, Margaret, would become my great-grandmother.
While the family was in St. Louis working to earn enough money to complete their
journey to the Salt Lake Valley, a plague of cholera swept through the area, leaving
death and heartache in its wake. The Miller family was hard hit. In the space of two
weeks, four of the family members succumbed. The first, on June 22, 1849, was 18-yearold William. Five days later Mary McGowan Miller, my great-great-grandmother and the
mother of the family, died. Two days afterward, 15-year-old Archibald passed away, and

five days after his death, my great-great-grandfather, Charles Stewart Miller, father of
the family, succumbed. The children who survived were left orphans, including my greatgrandmother Margaret, who was 13 years old at the time.
Because of so many deaths in the area, there were no caskets available, at any price, in
which to bury the deceased family members. The older surviving boys dismantled the
familys oxen pens in order to make caskets for the family members who had passed
away.
Little is recorded of the heartache and struggles of the nine remaining Miller children as
they continued to work and save for that journey their parents and brothers would never
make. We know that they left St. Louis in the spring of 1850 with four oxen and one
wagon, arriving finally in the Salt Lake Valley that same year.
Others of my ancestors faced similar hardships. Through it all, however, their testimonies
remained steadfast and firm. From all of them I received a legacy of total dedication to
the gospel of Jesus Christ. Because of these faithful souls, I stand before you today.
I thank my Father in Heaven for my sweet companion, Frances. This October she and I
will celebrate 60 wonderful years of marriage. Although my Church service began at an
early age, she has never once complained when Ive left home to attend meetings or to
fulfill an assignment. For many years my assignments as a member of the Twelve took
me away from Salt Lake City oftensometimes for five weeks at a timeleaving her
alone to care for our small children and our home. Beginning when I was called as a
bishop at the age of 22, we have seldom had the luxury of sitting together during a
Church service. I could not have asked for a more loyal, loving, and understanding
companion.
I express gratitude to my Heavenly Father for our three children and their companions,
for eight wonderful grandchildren, and for four beautiful great-grandchildren.
Its difficult for me to find the words to convey to you, my brothers and sisters, my
heartfelt appreciation for the lives you live, for the good you do, for the testimonies you
bear. You serve one another willingly. You are dedicated to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
During more than 44 years as a General Authority, I have had the opportunity to travel
the world over. One of my greatest joys has been to meet with you, the members,
wherever you may beto feel of your spirit and your love. I look forward to many more
such opportunities.
Throughout the journey along the pathway of life, there are casualties. Some depart from
the road markers which point toward life eternal, only to discover the detour chosen
ultimately leads to a dead end. Indifference, carelessness, selfishness, and sin all take
their costly toll in human lives.
Change for the better can come to all. Over the years we have issued appeals to the less
active, the offended, the critical, the transgressorto come back. Come back and feast
at the table of the Lord, and taste again the sweet and satisfying fruits of fellowship with
the Saints.
2

In the private sanctuary of ones own conscience lies that spirit, that determination to
cast off the old person and to measure up to the stature of true potential. In this spirit,
we again issue that heartfelt invitation: Come back. We reach out to you in the pure love
of Christ and express our desire to assist you and to welcome you into full fellowship. To
those who are wounded in spirit or who are struggling and fearful, we say, Let us lift you
and cheer you and calm your fears. Take literally the Lords invitation, Come unto me,
all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you,
and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
3

It was said of the Savior that He went about doing good for God was with him. May
we follow that perfect example. In this sometimes precarious journey through mortality,
may we also follow that advice from the Apostle Paul which will help to keep us safe and
on course: Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever
things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever
things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on
these things.
4

I would encourage members of the Church wherever they may be to show kindness and
respect for all people everywhere. The world in which we live is filled with diversity. We
can and should demonstrate respect toward those whose beliefs differ from ours.
May we also demonstrate kindness and love within our own families. Our homes are to
be more than sanctuaries; they should also be places where Gods Spirit can dwell,
where the storm stops at the door, where love reigns and peace dwells.
The world can at times be a frightening place in which to live. The moral fabric of society
seems to be unraveling at an alarming speed. Nonewhether young or old or in-between
is exempt from exposure to those things which have the potential to drag us down and
destroy us. Our youth, our precious youth, in particular, face temptations we can
scarcely comprehend. The adversary and his hosts seem to be working nonstop to cause
our downfall.
We are waging a war with sin, my brothers and sisters, but we need not despair. It is a
war we can and will win. Our Father in Heaven has given us the tools we need in order to
do so. He is at the helm. We have nothing to fear. He is the God of light. He is the God of
hope. I testify that He loves useach one.
Mortality is a period of testing, a time to prove ourselves worthy to return to the
presence of our Heavenly Father. In order to be tested, we must sometimes face
challenges and difficulties. At times there appears to be no light at the tunnels endno
dawn to break the nights darkness. We feel surrounded by the pain of broken hearts, the
disappointment of shattered dreams, and the despair of vanished hopes. We join in
uttering the biblical plea Is there no balm in Gilead? We are inclined to view our own
personal misfortunes through the distorted prism of pessimism. We feel abandoned,
heartbroken, alone. If you find yourself in such a situation, I plead with you to turn to our
Heavenly Father in faith. He will lift you and guide you. He will not always take your
afflictions from you, but He will comfort and lead you with love through whatever storm
you face.
6

With all my heart and the fervency of my soul, I lift my voice in testimony today as a
special witness and declare that God does live. Jesus is His Son, the Only Begotten of the
Father in the flesh. He is our Redeemer; He is our Mediator with the Father. He loves us
with a love we cannot fully comprehend, and because He loves us, He gave His life for
us. My gratitude to Him is beyond expression.
I invoke His blessings upon you, my beloved brothers and sisters, in your homes, in your
work, in your service to one another and to the Lord Himself. Together we shall move
forward doing His work.
I pledge my life, my strengthall that I have to offerin serving Him and in directing the
affairs of His Church in accordance with His will and by His inspiration, and I do so in His
holy nameeven the Lord Jesus Christamen.

April 2008 General Conference

Abundantly Blessed
President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Our testimonies have been strengthened. I believe we are all the more
determined to live the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Ive been attending conference for a long time. But I think Ive never felt quite as richly
blessed as during this session. Weve had rapid-fire messages from a lot of speakers, but
every one touched on a very important subject. Weve had a smorgasbord today of faith,
of love, and of counsel. Lets incorporate these things in our lives.
Brother Ballard, several years ago my dear wife went to the hospital. She left a note
behind for the children: Dear children, do not let Daddy touch the microwavefollowed
by a comma, or the stove, or the dishwasher, or the dryer. Im embarrassed to add any
more to that list.
I think it was Brother Uchtdorf who said, You told the audience today about your
heritage on your mothers side. What about your fathers side? So I conclude with just a
word or two about my fathers side.
My fathers father came from Sweden, and his wife from England. They met on the ship
coming over. He waited for her to grow up, and then he proposed marriage. They were
married in the Salt Lake Temple, and he wrote in his journal, Today is the happiest day
of my life. My sweetheart and I were married for time and eternity in the holy temple.
Three days later, on April 23, 1898, he wrote, Took the train at the Rio Grande Western
Depot enroute eventually to Scandinavia, where I have been called as a missionary. Off
he went to Sweden, leaving his bride of three days.

His journal, written in pencil, came to me from an uncle who somehow chose me to
receive his fathers journal. The most frequent entry in the journal was, My feet are
wet. But the most beautiful entry said: Today we went to the Jansson home. We met
Sister Jansson. She had a lovely dinner for us. She is a good cook. And then he said,
The children all sang or played a harmonica or did a little dance, and then she paid her
tithing. Five krona for the Lord and one for my companion, Elder Ipson, and one for me.
And then there were listed the names of the children.
When I read that in the journal, there was my wifes fathers name as one who was in
that household, one who probably sang a song, one who became the father of only one
daughter, the girl whom I married.
The first day I saw Frances, I knew Id found the right one. The Lord brought us together
later, and I asked her to go out with me. I went to her home to call on her. She
introduced me, and her father said, Monsonthats a Swedish name, isnt it?
I said, Yes.
He said, Good.
Then he went into another room and brought out a picture of two missionaries with their
top hats and their copies of the Book of Mormon.
Are you related to this Monson, he said, Elias Monson?
I said, Yes, hes my grandfathers brother. He too was a missionary in Sweden.
Her father wept. He wept easily. He said, He and his companion were the missionaries
who taught the gospel to my mother and my father and all of my brothers and sisters
and to me. He kissed me on the cheek. And then her mother cried, and she kissed me
on the other cheek. And then I looked around for Frances. She said, Ill go get my coat.
My sweet Frances had a terrible fall a few years ago. She went to the hospital. She lay in
a coma for about 18 days. I sat by her side. She never moved a muscle. The children
cried, the grandchildren cried, and I wept. Not a movement.
And then one day, she opened her eyes. I set a speed record in getting to her side. I
gave her a kiss and a hug, and I said, Youre back. I love you. And she said, I love you,
too, Tom, but were in serious trouble. I thought, What do you know about trouble,
Frances? She said, I forgot to mail in our fourth-quarter income tax payment.
I said to her, Frances, if you had said that before you extended a kiss to me and told me
you love me, I might have left you here.
Brethren, lets treat our wives with dignity and with respect. Theyre our eternal
companions. Sisters, honor your husbands. They need to hear a good word. They need a
friendly smile. They need a warm expression of true love.
Leaving my own family for a moment, my brothers and sisters, this has been a wonderful
conference. We have been edified by wise and inspired messages. Our testimonies have

been strengthened. I believe we are all the more determined to live the principles of the
gospel of Jesus Christ.
Not only have we been blessed by the fine talks which have been given; we have also
been uplifted by the beautiful music which has been provided. We are abundantly
blessed in the Church by those who share their musical talents with us. Every choir and
chorus has performed so well during the past two days.
I express my great love for all those who have participated and to all of you who have
listened. I have felt your prayers in my behalf and have been sustained and blessed
during the two months since our beloved President Hinckley left us. Once again, I
appreciate your sustaining vote.
I cannot adequately express my gratitude for the Restoration of the gospel in these latter
days and for what that has meant in my life. Each of us has been influenced and shaped
as we have followed the Savior and have adhered to the principles of His gospel.
To you who are parents, I say, show love to your children. You know you love them, but
make certain they know it as well. They are so precious. Let them know. Call upon our
Heavenly Father for help as you care for their needs each day and as you deal with the
challenges which inevitably come with parenthood. You need more than your own
wisdom in rearing them.
We commend our wonderful young people who stand up to the iniquity in the world and
who live the commandments to the best of their ability.
To you who are able to attend the temple, I would counsel you to go often. Doing so will
help to strengthen marriages and families.
Let us be kind to one another, be aware of each others needs, and try to help in that
regard.
My dear brothers and sisters, I love you, and I pray for you. Please pray for me. And
together we will reap the blessings our Heavenly Father has in store for each one of us.
This is my prayer, my plea as I add my testimony. This work is true. In the name of Jesus
Christ, amen.

October 2008 General Conference

Welcome to Conference
President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Our Heavenly Father is mindful of each one of us and our needs. May we be
filled with His Spirit as we partake of the proceedings of this conference.

My dear brothers and sisters, the past six months since last we met seem to have flown
by. Much has transpired as the work of the Lord has moved forward uninterrupted.
It has been my privilege, accompanied by my counselors and by other General
Authorities, to dedicate three new temples: in Curitiba, Brazil; in Panama City, Panama;
and in Twin Falls, Idahobringing to 128 the number of temples in operation throughout
the world.
The evening before each of the temple dedications took place, magnificent cultural
events were held. In Curitiba, Brazil, 4,330 members from the temple district, supported
by a choir of 1,700 voices, presented a most inspirational program through song, dance,
and video. The enormous soccer stadium where the event took place was filled with
spectators. The wind had been blowing, and rain threatened. I offered a silent prayer
asking Heavenly Father to look with mercy upon those who had prepared so diligently for
our entertainment and whose costumes and presentations would be damaged if a heavy
rain or wind enveloped them. He honored that prayer, and it wasnt until the end of the
show and later on that evening that rain fell in abundance.
A history of the Church in Brazil was portrayed in song and dance. A particularly moving
scene was the portrayal of Elders James E. Faust and William Grant Bangerter, who
served as missionaries in Curitiba in 1940. As their photos were displayed on large
screens, a tremendous cheer went up from the audience. All in all, it was a glorious
event.
In Panama City, Panama, the evening before the dedication of the temple there, we
watched some 900 of our youth, gathered from across Panama. They were dressed in
colorful folkloric costumes as they danced and presented messages of family, fellowship,
and faith. We learned that they had been practicing for a year. They came from points as
distant as the San Blas Islands and the Changuinola region in northeast Panama. The trip
to the capital city for the San Blas youth exacted three days of travel over land and sea.
The event was magnificent and inspiring.
In preparation for our most recent temple dedication, in Twin Falls, Idaho, local Church
members constructed a huge stage at the Filer, Idaho, fairgrounds and filled the dirt
arena with sod and other decorations, including a large waterfall to represent Shoshone
Falls, a popular landmark located two miles (3 km) from the new temple. The evening of
the performance, 3,200 young men and young women entered the arena waving blue
and white ribbons, turning the arena into a representation of a great river of flowing
water. Titled Living Water, from John 4:10, 14, the celebration brought together youth
from 14 stakes in the new temple district. They depicted, through song and dance, both
their dependence for their spiritual lives on the living water from the Savior and their
dependence for their physical lives on the mountain streams and rivers in their area.
Those of us privileged to witness this event were uplifted and edified.
I am an advocate for such events. They enable our youth to participate in something
they truly find unforgettable. The friendships they form and the memories they make will
be theirs forever.
Next month the Mexico City Mexico Temple will be rededicated following extensive
renovations. In the coming months the construction of other temples will be completed,
and open houses and dedications will take place.

This morning I am pleased to announce five new temples for which sites have been
acquired and which, in coming months and years, will be built in the following locations:
Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Crdoba, Argentina; the greater Kansas City area; Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania; and Rome, Italy.
Brothers and sisters, our missionary force, serving throughout the world, continues to
seek out those who are searching for the truths which are found in the gospel of Jesus
Christ. The Church is steadily growing; it has since its organization over 178 years ago.
It has been my privilege during the past six months to meet with leaders of countries
and with representatives of governments. Those with whom Ive met feel kindly toward
the Church and our members, and they have been cooperative and accommodating.
There remain, however, areas of the world where our influence is limited and where we
are not allowed to share the gospel freely. As did President Spencer W. Kimball over 32
years ago, I urge you to pray for the opening of those areas, that we might share with
them the joy of the gospel. As we prayed then in response to President Kimballs
pleadings, we saw miracles unfold as country after country, formerly closed to the
Church, was opened. Such will transpire again as we pray with faith.
Now, my brothers and sisters, we have come here to be instructed and inspired. Some of
you are new in the Church. We welcome you. Some of you are struggling with problems,
with challenges, with disappointments, with losses. We love you and pray for you. Many
messages will be shared during the next two days. I can assure you that those men and
women who will speak to you have prayed about what they should say. They have been
inspired and impressed as they have sought heavens help and direction.
Our Heavenly Father is mindful of each one of us and our needs. May we be filled with
His Spirit as we partake of the proceedings of this, the 178th Semiannual General
Conference of the Church. This is my sincere prayer, and I offer it in the name of Jesus
Christ, amen.

October 2008 General Conference

To Learn, to Do, to Be
President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May we learn what we should learn, do what we should do, and be what we
should be.
Youve seen a witness tonight of the strength of the two counselors in this First
Presidency. I stand before you and declare this First Presidency is united as one under the
direction of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I want to especially thank this missionary choir. I had an experience I think they may be
interested in, and you may find it interesting also. Many years ago I had a desperate call
from the head of the missionary training center. He said, President Monson, I have a
missionary who is going home. Nothing can prevent him from quitting.
I replied, Well, thats not singular. Its happened before. Whats his problem?
He said, Hes been called to a Spanish-speaking mission, and hes absolutely certain he
cannot learn Spanish.
I said, I have a suggestion for you. Tomorrow morning have him attend a class learning
Japanese. And then have him report to you at 12:00 noon.
The next morning he phoned at 10:00! He said, The young man is here with me now,
and he wants me to know hes absolutely certain he can learn Spanish.
When theres a will, theres a way.
Now, as I speak to you tonight, truly you are a royal priesthood, assembled in many
places but in unity. In all likelihood this is the largest assemblage of priesthood holders
ever to come together. Your devotion to your sacred callings is inspiring. Your desire to
learn your duty is evident. The purity of your souls brings heaven closer to you and your
families.
Many areas of the world have experienced difficult economic times. Businesses have
failed, jobs have been lost, and investments have been jeopardized. We must make
certain that those for whom we share responsibility do not go hungry or unclothed or
unsheltered. When the priesthood of this Church works together as one in meeting these
vexing conditions, near miracles take place.
We urge all Latter-day Saints to be prudent in their planning, to be conservative in their
living, and to avoid excessive or unnecessary debt. The financial affairs of the Church are
being managed in this manner, for we are aware that your tithing and other
contributions have not come without sacrifice and are sacred funds.
Let us make our homes sanctuaries of righteousness, places of prayer, and abodes of
love that we might merit the blessings that can come only from our Heavenly Father. We
need His guidance in our daily lives.
In this vast throng are priesthood power and the capacity to reach out and share the
glorious gospel with others. As has been mentioned, we have the hands to lift others
from complacency and inactivity. We have the hearts to serve faithfully in our priesthood
callings and thereby inspire others to walk on higher ground and to avoid the swamps of
sin which threaten to engulf so many. The worth of souls is indeed great in the sight of
God. Ours is the precious privilege, armed with this knowledge, to make a difference in
the lives of others. The words found in Ezekiel could well pertain to all of us who follow
the Savior in this sacred work:
A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you.

And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall
keep my judgments, and do them.
And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and
I will be your God.
1

How might we merit this promise? What will qualify us to receive this blessing? Is there a
guide to follow?
May I suggest three imperatives for our consideration. They apply to the deacon as well
as to the high priest. They are within our reach. A kind Heavenly Father will help us in our
quest.
First, learn what we should learn.
Second, do what we should do.
And third, be what we should be.
Let us discuss these objectives, that we might be profitable servants in the sight of our
Lord.
First, learn what we should learn. The Apostle Paul placed an urgency on our efforts to
learn. He said to the Philippians, One thing I do, forgetting those things which are
behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark
for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. And to the Hebrews he urged,
Lay aside sin[;] let us run with patience the race set before us, looking [for an
example] unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.
2

President Stephen L Richards, who served for many years in the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles and then in the First Presidency, spoke often to holders of the priesthood and
emphasized his philosophy pertaining to it. He declared: The Priesthood is usually
simply defined as the power of God delegated to man. This definition, I think, is
accurate.
He continued: But for practical purposes I like to define the Priesthood in terms of
service and I frequently call it the perfect plan of service. I do so because it seems to
me that it is only through the utilization of the divine power conferred on men that they
may ever hope to realize the full import and vitality of this endowment. It is an
instrument of service and the man who fails to use it is apt to lose it, for we are plainly
told by revelation that he who neglects it shall not be counted worthy to stand.
4

President Harold B. Lee, 11th President of the Church and one of the great teachers in
the Church, put his counsel in easy-to-understand terms. Said he: When one becomes a
holder of the priesthood, he becomes an agent of the Lord. He should think of his calling
as though he were on the Lords errand.
5

Now, some of you may be shy by nature or consider yourselves inadequate to respond
affirmatively to a calling. Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the
Lords work, and when we are on the Lords errand, we are entitled to the Lords help.
Remember that the Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it.

While the formal classroom may be intimidating at times, some of the most effective
teaching takes place other than in the chapel or the classroom. Well do I remember that
some years ago, members holding the Aaronic Priesthood would eagerly look forward to
an annual outing commemorating the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood. By the
busload the young men of our stake journeyed 90 miles (145 km) north to the Clarkston
Cemetery, where we viewed the grave of Martin Harris, one of the Three Witnesses of
the Book of Mormon. While surrounding the beautiful granite shaft which marks the
grave, a high councilor would present background concerning the life of Martin Harris,
read from the Book of Mormon his testimony, and then bear his own witness to the truth.
The young men listened with rapt attention, touched the granite marker, and pondered
the words they had heard and the feelings they had felt.
At a park in Logan, lunch was enjoyed. The group of young men would then lie down on
the lawn at the Logan temple and gaze upward at its lofty spires. Often beautiful white
clouds would hurry past the spires, moved along by a gentle breeze. The purpose of
temples was taught. Covenants and promises became much more than words. The
desire to be worthy to enter those temple doors entered those youthful hearts. Heaven
was very close. Learning what we should learn was assured.
Number two, do what we should do. In a revelation on priesthood, given through Joseph
Smith the Prophet, recorded as the 107th section of the Doctrine and Covenants,
learning moves to doing as we read, Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty,
and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.
6

Each priesthood holder attending this session tonight has a calling to serve, to put forth
his best efforts in the work assigned to him. No assignment is menial in the work of the
Lord, for each has eternal consequences. President John Taylor warned us, If you do not
magnify your callings, God will hold you responsible for those whom you might have
saved had you done your duty. And who of us can afford to be responsible for the delay
of eternal life of a human soul? If great joy is the reward of saving one soul, then how
terrible must be the remorse of those whose timid efforts have allowed a child of God to
go unwarned or unaided so that he has to wait till a dependable servant of God comes
along.
7

The old adage is ever true: Do your duty, that is best; leave unto the Lord the rest.
Most service given by priesthood holders is accomplished quietly, without fanfare. A
friendly smile, a warm handclasp, a sincere testimony of truth can literally lift lives,
change human nature, and save precious souls.
An example of such service was the missionary experience of Juliusz and Dorothy Fussek,
who were called to fill a two-year mission in Poland. Brother Fussek was born in Poland.
He spoke the language. He loved the people. Sister Fussek was English and knew little of
Poland and its people.
Trusting in the Lord, they embarked on their assignment. The living conditions were
primitive, the work lonely, their task immense. A mission had not at that time been
established in Poland. The assignment given the Fusseks was to prepare the way, that a
mission could be established so that other missionaries could be called to serve, people
could be taught, converts could be baptized, branches could be established, and chapels
could be erected.

Did Elder and Sister Fussek despair because of the enormity of their assignment? Not for
a moment. They knew their calling was from God. They prayed for His divine help, and
they devoted themselves wholeheartedly to their work. They remained in Poland not two
years but five years. All of the foregoing objectives were realized.
Elders Russell M. Nelson, Hans B. Ringger, and I, accompanied by Elder Fussek, met with
Minister Adam Wopatka of the Polish government, and we heard him say, Your church is
welcome here. You may build your buildings; you may send your missionaries. You are
welcome in Poland. This man, pointing to Juliusz Fussek, has served your church well.
You can be grateful for his example and his work.
Like the Fusseks, let us do what we should do in the work of the Lord. Then we can, with
Juliusz and Dorothy Fussek, echo the Psalm: My help cometh from the Lord, which made
heaven and earth : he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth
Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
8

Third, be what we should be. Paul counseled his beloved friend and associate Timothy,
Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in
faith, in purity.
9

I would urge all of us to pray concerning our assignments and to seek divine help, that
we might be successful in accomplishing that which we are called to do. Someone has
said that the recognition of power higher than man himself does not in any sense
debase him. He must seek, believe in, pray, and hope that he will find. No such sincere,
prayerful effort will go unanswered: that is the very constitution of the philosophy of
faith. Divine favor will attend those who humbly seek it.
10

From the Book of Mormon comes counsel that says it all. The Lord speaks: Therefore,
what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am.
11

And what manner of man was He? What example did He set in His service? From John
chapter 10 we learn:
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth
the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and
scattereth the sheep.
The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
Said the Lord: I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the
sheep.
12

Brethren, may we learn what we should learn, do what we should do, and be what we
should be. By so doing, the blessings of heaven will attend. We will know that we are not
alone. He who notes the sparrows fall will, in His own way, acknowledge us.

Several years ago I received a letter from a longtime friend. He bore his testimony in that
letter. I would like to share part of it with you tonight, since it illustrates the strength of
the priesthood in one who learned what he should learn, who did what he should do, and
who always tried to be what he should be. I shall read excerpts of that letter from my
friend Theron W. Borup, who passed away three years ago at the age of 90:
At the age of eight, when I was baptized and received the Holy Ghost, I was much
impressed about being good and able to have the Holy Ghost to be a help throughout my
life. I was told that the Holy Ghost associated only in good company and that when evil
entered our lives, he would leave. Not knowing when I would need his promptings and
guidance, I tried to so live that I would not lose this gift. On one occasion it saved my life.
During World War II, I was an engineer-gunner in a B-24 bomber fighting in the South
Pacific. One day there was an announcement that the longest bombing flight ever
made would be attempted to knock out an oil refinery. The promptings of the Spirit told
me I would be assigned on this flight but that I would not lose my life. At the time I was
the president of the LDS group.
The combat was ferocious as we flew over Borneo. Our plane was hit by attacking
planes and soon burst into flames, and the pilot told us to prepare to jump. I went out
last. We were shot at by enemy pilots as we floated down. I had trouble inflating my life
raft. Bobbing up and down in the water, I began to drown and passed out. I came to
momentarily and cried, God save me! Again I tried inflating the life raft and this time
was successful. With just enough air in it to keep me afloat, I rolled over on top of it, too
exhausted to move.
For three days we floated about in enemy territory with ships all about us and planes
overhead. Why they couldnt see a yellow group of rafts on blue water is a mystery, he
wrote. A storm came up, and waves thirty feet high almost tore our rafts apart. Three
days went by with no food or water. The others asked me if I prayed. I answered that I
did pray and we would indeed be rescued. That evening we saw our submarine that was
there to rescue us, but it passed by. The next morning it did [the same. We knew] this
was the last day [it would] be in the area. Then came the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
You have the priesthood. Command the sub to pick you up. Silently I prayed, In the
name of Jesus Christ, and by the power of the priesthood, turn about and pick us up. In a
few minutes, they were alongside of us. When on deck, the captain said, I dont know
how we ever found you, for we were not even looking for you. I knew.
13

I leave with you my testimony that this work in which we are engaged is true. The Lord is
at the helm. That we may ever follow Him is my sincere prayer, and I ask it in the name
of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2008 General Conference

Finding Joy in the Journey

President Thomas S. Monson

President of the Church

Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with
friends and family.
My dear brothers and sisters, I am humbled as I stand before you this morning. I ask for
your faith and prayers in my behalf as I speak about those things which have been on
my mind and which I have felt impressed to share with you.
I begin by mentioning one of the most inevitable aspects of our lives here upon the
earth, and that is change. At one time or another weve all heard some form of the
familiar adage: Nothing is as constant as change.
Throughout our lives, we must deal with change. Some changes are welcome; some are
not. There are changes in our lives which are sudden, such as the unexpected passing of
a loved one, an unforeseen illness, the loss of a possession we treasure. But most of the
changes take place subtly and slowly.
This conference marks 45 years since I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
As the junior member of the Twelve then, I looked up to 14 exceptional men, who were
senior to me in the Twelve and the First Presidency. One by one, each of these men has
returned home. When President Hinckley passed away eight months ago, I realized that I
had become the senior Apostle. The changes over a period of 45 years that were
incremental now seem monumental.
This coming week Sister Monson and I will celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary. As I
look back to our beginnings, I realize just how much our lives have changed since then.
Our beloved parents, who stood beside us as we commenced our journey together, have
passed on. Our three children, who filled our lives so completely for many years, are
grown and have families of their own. Most of our grandchildren are grown, and we now
have four great-grandchildren.
Day by day, minute by minute, second by second we went from where we were to where
we are now. The lives of all of us, of course, go through similar alterations and changes.
The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in yours is only in the
details. Time never stands still; it must steadily march on, and with the marching come
the changes.
This is our one and only chance at mortal lifehere and now. The longer we live, the
greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I
believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the
earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I
plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that
illusive and nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do.
Instead, find joy in the journeynow.
I am what my wife, Frances, calls a show-a-holic. I thoroughly enjoy many musicals,
and one of my favorites was written by the American composer Meredith Willson and is
entitled The Music Man. Professor Harold Hill, one of the principal characters in the show,

voices a caution that I share with you. Says he, You pile up enough tomorrows, and
youll find youve collected a lot of empty yesterdays.
1

My brothers and sisters, there is no tomorrow to remember if we dont do something

today.
Ive shared with you previously an example of this philosophy. I believe it bears
repeating. Many years ago, Arthur Gordon wrote in a national magazine, and I quote:
When I was around thirteen and my brother ten, Father had promised to take us to the
circus. But at lunchtime there was a phone call; some urgent business required his
attention downtown. We braced ourselves for disappointment. Then we heard him say
[into the phone], No, I wont be down. Itll have to wait.
When he came back to the table, Mother smiled. The circus keeps coming back, you
know, [she said.]
I know, said Father. But childhood doesnt.

If you have children who are grown and gone, in all likelihood you have occasionally felt
pangs of loss and the recognition that you didnt appreciate that time of life as much as
you should have. Of course, there is no going back, but only forward. Rather than
dwelling on the past, we should make the most of today, of the here and now, doing all
we can to provide pleasant memories for the future.
If you are still in the process of raising children, be aware that the tiny fingerprints that
show up on almost every newly cleaned surface, the toys scattered about the house, the
piles and piles of laundry to be tackled will disappear all too soon and that you willto
your surprisemiss them profoundly.
Stresses in our lives come regardless of our circumstances. We must deal with them the
best we can. But we should not let them get in the way of what is most importantand
what is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume
that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should
let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, They do not love that do not show their
love. We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our
regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean
the most to us.
3

Send that note to the friend youve been neglecting; give your child a hug; give your
parents a hug; say I love you more; always express your thanks. Never let a problem to
be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away,
children grow up, loved ones pass on. Its so easy to take others for granted, until that
day when theyre gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of what if and if
only. Said author Harriet Beecher Stowe, The bitterest tears shed over graves are for
words left unsaid and deeds left undone.
4

In the 1960s, during the Vietnam War, Church member Jay Hess, an airman, was shot
down over North Vietnam. For two years his family had no idea whether he was dead or
alive. His captors in Hanoi eventually allowed him to write home but limited his message
to less than 25 words. What would you and I say to our families if we were in the same

situationnot having seen them for over two years and not knowing if we would ever
see them again? Wanting to provide something his family could recognize as having
come from him and also wanting to give them valuable counsel, Brother Hess wrote
and I quote: These things are important: temple marriage, mission, college. Press on,
set goals, write history, take pictures twice a year.
5

Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and
family. One day each of us will run out of tomorrows.
In the book of John in the New Testament, chapter 13, verse 34, the Savior admonishes
us, As I have loved you, love one another.
Some of you may be familiar with Thornton Wilders classic drama Our Town. If you are,
you will remember the town of Grovers Corners, where the story takes place. In the play
Emily Webb dies in childbirth, and we read of the lonely grief of her young husband,
George, left with their four-year-old son. Emily does not wish to rest in peace; she wants
to experience again the joys of her life. She is granted the privilege of returning to earth
and reliving her 12th birthday. At first it is exciting to be young again, but the excitement
wears off quickly. The day holds no joy now that Emily knows what is in store for the
future. It is unbearably painful to realize how unaware she had been of the meaning and
wonder of life while she was alive. Before returning to her resting place, Emily laments,
Do human beings ever realize life while they live itevery, every minute?
Our realization of what is most important in life goes hand in hand with gratitude for our
blessings.
Said one well-known author: Both abundance and lack [of abundance] exist
simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which
secret garden we will tend when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our
lives but are grateful for the abundance thats presentlove, health, family, friends,
work, the joys of nature, and personal pursuits that bring us [happiness]the wasteland
of illusion falls away and we experience heaven on earth.
6

In the Doctrine and Covenants, section 88, verse 33, we are told: For what doth it profit
a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not
in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift.
The ancient Roman philosopher Horace admonished, Whatever hour God has blessed
you with, take it with grateful hand, nor postpone your joys from year to year, so that in
whatever place you have been, you may say that you have lived happily.
Many years ago I was touched by the story of Borghild Dahl. She was born in Minnesota
in 1890 of Norwegian parents and from her early years suffered severely impaired vision.
She had a tremendous desire to participate in everyday life despite her handicap and,
through sheer determination, succeeded in nearly everything she undertook. Against the
advice of educators, who felt her handicap was too great, she attended college, receiving
her bachelor of arts degree from the University of Minnesota. She later studied at
Columbia University and the University of Oslo. She eventually became the principal of
eight schools in western Minnesota and North Dakota.

She wrote the following in one of the 17 books she authored: I had only one eye, and it
was so covered with dense scars that I had to do all my seeing through one small
opening in the left of the eye. I could see a book only by holding it up close to my face
and by straining my one eye as hard as I could to the left.
7

Miraculously, in 1943when she was over 50 years olda revolutionary procedure was
developed which finally restored to her much of the sight she had been without for so
long. A new and exciting world opened up before her. She took great pleasure in the
small things most of us take for granted, such as watching a bird in flight, noticing the
light reflected in the bubbles of her dishwater, or observing the phases of the moon each
night. She closed one of her books with these words: Dear Father in heaven, I thank
Thee. I thank Thee.
8

Borghild Dahl, both before and after her sight was restored, was filled with gratitude for
her blessings.
In 1982, two years before she died, at the age of 92 her last book was published. Its title:
Happy All My Life. Her attitude of thankfulness enabled her to appreciate her blessings
and to live a full and rich life despite her challenges.
In 1 Thessalonians in the New Testament, chapter 5, verse 18, we are told by the Apostle
Paul, In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God.
Recall with me the account of the 10 lepers:
And as [Jesus] entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers,
which stood afar off:
And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it
came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice
glorified God,
And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

Said the Lord in a revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith, In nothing doth
man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his
hand in all things. May we be found among those who give our thanks to our Heavenly
Father. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place
among the noblest of virtues.
10

Despite the changes which come into our lives and with gratitude in our hearts, may we
fill our daysas much as we canwith those things which matter most. May we cherish
those we hold dear and express our love to them in word and in deed.

In closing, I pray that all of us will reflect gratitude for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
His glorious gospel provides answers to lifes greatest questions: Where did we come
from? Why are we here? Where does my spirit go when I die?
He taught us how to pray. He taught us how to serve. He taught us how to live. His life is
a legacy of love. The sick He healed; the downtrodden He lifted; the sinner He saved.
The time came when He stood alone. Some Apostles doubted; one betrayed Him. The
Roman soldiers pierced His side. The angry mob took His life. There yet rings from
Golgothas hill His compassionate words, Father, forgive them; for they know not what
they do.
11

Earlier, perhaps perceiving the culmination of His earthly mission, He spoke the lament,
Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not
where to lay his head. No room in the inn was not a singular expression of rejection
just the first. Yet He invites you and me to receive Him. Behold, I stand at the door,
and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will
sup with him, and he with me.
12

13

14

Who was this Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief? Who is the King of glory, this Lord of
hosts? He is our Master. He is our Savior. He is the Son of God. He is the Author of our
Salvation. He beckons, Follow me. He instructs, Go, and do thou likewise. He
pleads, Keep my commandments.
15

16

17

Let us follow Him. Let us emulate His example. Let us obey His word. By so doing, we
give to Him the divine gift of gratitude.
Brothers and sisters, my sincere prayer is that we may adapt to the changes in our lives,
that we may realize what is most important, that we may express our gratitude always
and thus find joy in the journey. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2008 General Conference

Until We Meet Again

President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May we be good citizens of the nations in which we live and good neighbors
in our communities, reaching out to those of other faiths, as well as to our
own.
Brothers and sisters, I know you will agree with me that this has been a most inspiring
conference. We have felt the Spirit of the Lord in rich abundance these past two days as
our hearts have been touched and our testimonies of this divine work have been
strengthened. I am certain I represent the membership of the Church everywhere in

expressing appreciation to the brethren and sisters who have addressed us. I am
reminded of the words of Moroni found in the Book of Mormon: And their meetings were
conducted by the church after the manner of the workings of the Spirit, and by the power
of the Holy Ghost; for as the power of the Holy Ghost led them whether to preach, or to
exhort, or to pray, or to supplicate, or to sing, even so it was done.
1

May we long remember what we have heard during this general conference. The
messages which have been given will be printed in next months Ensign and Liahona
magazines. I urge you to study them and to ponder their teachings.
To you Brethren who have been released at this conference, we express our deep
appreciation for your many years of dedicated service. The entire membership of the
Church has benefited from your countless contributions.
I assure you that our Heavenly Father is mindful of the challenges we face in the world
today. He loves each of us and will bless us as we strive to keep His commandments and
seek Him through prayer.
We are a global church, brothers and sisters. Our membership is found throughout the
world. May we be good citizens of the nations in which we live and good neighbors in our
communities, reaching out to those of other faiths, as well as to our own. May we be men
and women of honesty and integrity in everything we do.
There are those throughout the world who are hungry; there are those who are destitute.
Working together, we can alleviate suffering and provide for those in need. In addition to
the service you give as you care for one another, your contributions to the funds of the
Church enable us to respond almost immediately when disasters occur anywhere in the
world. We are nearly always among the first on the scene to provide whatever assistance
we can. We thank you for your generosity.
There are other difficulties in the lives of some. Particularly among the young, there are
those who are tragically involved in such things as drugs, immorality, gangs, and all the
serious problems that go with them. In addition, there are those who are lonely, including
widows and widowers, who long for the company and the concern of others. May we ever
be mindful of the needs of those around us and be ready to extend a helping hand and a
loving heart.
Brothers and sisters, how blessed we are that the heavens are indeed open, that the
restored Church of Jesus Christ is upon the earth today, and that the Church is founded
upon the rock of revelation. We know that continuous revelation is the very lifeblood of
the gospel of Jesus Christ.
May each of us go safely to our homes. May we live together in peace and harmony and
love. May we strive each day to follow the Saviors example.
God bless you, my brothers and sisters. I thank you for your prayers in my behalf and in
behalf of all the General Authorities. We are deeply grateful for you.
In one of Christopher Marlowes plays, The Tragical History of Dr. Faustus, there is
portrayed an individual, Dr. Faustus, who chose to ignore God and follow the pathway of
Satan. At the end of his wicked life, and facing the frustration of opportunities lost and

punishment certain to come, he lamented, [There is] more searing anguish than
[flaming] fireeternal exile from God.
2

My brothers and sisters, just as eternal exile from God may be the most searing anguish,
so eternal life in the presence of God is our most precious goal.
With all my heart and soul I pray that we might continue to persevere in the pursuit of
this most precious prize.
I bear witness to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He guides and
directs His Church here upon the earth. I bid you farewell, my dear brothers and sisters,
until we meet again in six months. In the name of Jesus of Nazareth, our Savior, our
Redeemer whom we serve, amen.

April 2009 General Conference

May You Have Courage

President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
My earnest prayer is that you will have the courage required to refrain from
judging others, the courage to be chaste and virtuous, and the courage to
stand firm for truth and righteousness.
My dear young sisters, what a glorious sight you are. I realize that beyond this
magnificent Conference Center many thousands are assembled in chapels and in other
settings throughout much of the world. I pray for heavenly help as I respond to the
opportunity to address you.
We have heard timely, inspiring messages from your general Young Women leaders.
These are choice women, called and set apart to guide and teach you. They love you, as
do I.
You have come to this earth at a glorious time. The opportunities before you are nearly
limitless. Almost all of you live in comfortable homes, with loving families, adequate
food, and sufficient clothing. In addition, most of you have access to amazing
technological advances. You communicate through cell phones, text messaging, instant
messaging, e-mailing, blogging, Facebook, and other such means. You listen to music on
your iPods and MP3 players. This list, of course, represents but a few of the technologies
which are available to you.
All of this is a little daunting to someone such as I, who grew up when radios were
generally large floor models and when there were no televisions to speak of, let alone
computers or cell phones. In fact, when I was your age, telephone lines were mostly
shared. In our family, if we wanted to make a telephone call, we would have to pick up

the phone and listen first to make certain no other family was using the line, for several
families shared one line.
I could go on all night talking about the differences between my generation and yours.
Suffice it to say that much has changed between the time I was your age and the
present.
Although this is a remarkable period when opportunities abound, you also face
challenges which are unique to this time. For instance, the very technological tools I
have mentioned provide opportunities for the adversary to tempt you and to ensnare you
in his web of deceit, thereby hoping to take possession of your destiny.
As I contemplate all that you face in the world today, one word comes to my mind. It
describes an attribute needed by all of us but one which youat this time of your life
and in this worldwill need particularly. That attribute is courage.
Tonight Id like to talk with you about the courage you will need in three aspects of your
lives:

First, the courage to refrain from judging others;

Second, the courage to be chaste and virtuous; and
Third, the courage to stand firm for truth and righteousness.
May I speak first about the courage to refrain from judging others. Oh, you may ask,
Does this really take courage? And I would reply that I believe there are many times
when refraining from judgmentor gossip or criticism, which are certainly akin to
judgmenttakes an act of courage.
Unfortunately, there are those who feel it necessary to criticize and to belittle others. You
have, no doubt, been with such people, as you will be in the future. My dear young
friends, we are not left to wonder what our behavior should be in such situations. In the
Sermon on the Mount, the Savior declared, Judge not. At a later time He admonished,
Cease to find fault one with another. It will take real courage when you are surrounded
by your peers and feeling the pressure to participate in such criticisms and judgments to
refrain from joining in.
1

I would venture to say that there are young women around you who, because of your
unkind comments and criticism, are often left out. It seems to be the pattern, particularly
at this time in your lives, to avoid or to be unkind to those who might be judged different,
those who dont fit the mold of what we or others think they should be.
The Savior said:
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another.
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Mother Teresa, a Catholic nun who worked among the poor in India most of her life,
spoke this truth: If you judge people, you have no time to love them.

A friend told me of an experience she had many years ago when she was a teenager. In
her ward was a young woman named Sandra who had suffered an injury at birth,
resulting in her being somewhat mentally handicapped. Sandra longed to be included
with the other girls, but she looked handicapped. She acted handicapped. Her clothing
was always ill fitting. She sometimes made inappropriate comments. Although Sandra
attended their Mutual activities, it was always the responsibility of the teacher to keep
her company and to try to make her feel welcome and valued, since the girls did not.
Then something happened: a new girl of the same age moved into the ward. Nancy was
a cute, redheaded, self-confident, popular girl who fit in easily. All the girls wanted to be
her friend, but Nancy didnt limit her friendships. In fact, she went out of her way to
befriend Sandra and to make certain she always felt included in everything. Nancy
seemed to genuinely like Sandra.
Of course the other girls took note and began wondering why they hadnt ever
befriended Sandra. It now seemed not only acceptable but desirable. Eventually they
began to realize what Nancy, by her example, was teaching them: that Sandra was a
valuable daughter of our Heavenly Father, that she had a contribution to make, and that
she deserved to be treated with love and kindness and positive attention.
By the time Nancy and her family moved from the neighborhood a year or so later,
Sandra was a permanent part of the group of young women. My friend said that from
then on she and the other girls made certain no one was ever left out, regardless of what
might make her different. A valuable, eternal lesson had been learned.
True love can alter human lives and change human nature.
My precious young sisters, I plead with you to have the courage to refrain from judging
and criticizing those around you, as well as the courage to make certain everyone is
included and feels loved and valued.
I turn next to the courage you will need to be chaste and virtuous. You live in a world
where moral values have, in great measure, been tossed aside, where sin is flagrantly on
display, and where temptations to stray from the strait and narrow path surround you.
Many are the voices telling you that you are far too provincial or that there is something
wrong with you if you still believe there is such a thing as immoral behavior.
Isaiah declared, Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for
light, and light for darkness.
4

Great courage will be required as you remain chaste and virtuous amid the accepted
thinking of the times.
In the worlds view today there is little thought that young men and young women will
remain morally clean and pure before marriage. Does this make immoral behavior
acceptable? Absolutely not!
The commandments of our Heavenly Father are not negotiable!
Powerful is this quote from news commentator Ted Koppel, host of ABCs Nightline
program for many years. Said he:

We have actually convinced ourselves that slogans will save us. Shoot up if you must;
but use a clean needle. Enjoy sex whenever with whomever you wish; but [protect
yourself].
No. The answer is no. Not no because it isnt cool or smart or because you might end up
in jail or dying in an AIDS wardbut no, because its wrong.
What Moses brought down from Mt. Sinai were not the Ten Suggestions, they are
Commandments. Are, not were.
5

My sweet young sisters, maintain an eternal perspective. Be alert to anything that would
rob you of the blessings of eternity.
Help in maintaining the proper perspective in these permissive times can come to you
from many sources. One valuable resource is your patriarchal blessing. Read it
frequently. Study it carefully. Be guided by its cautions. Live to merit its promises. If you
have not yet received your patriarchal blessing, plan for the time when you will receive
it, and then cherish it.
If any has stumbled in her journey, there is a way back. The process is called repentance.
Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. The path may be difficult, but
the promise is real: Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.
And I will remember [them] no more.
6

Some years ago another First Presidency made this statement, and your First Presidency
today echoes the appeal. I quote: To the youth , we plead with you to live clean
[lives], for the unclean life leads only to suffering, misery, and woe physically,and
spiritually it is the path to destruction. How glorious and near to the angels is youth that
is clean; this youth has joy unspeakable here and eternal happiness hereafter. Sexual
purity is youths most precious possession; it is the foundation of all righteousness.
8

May you have the courage to be chaste and virtuous.

My final plea tonight is that you have the courage to stand firm for truth and
righteousness. Because the trend in society today is away from the values and principles
the Lord has given us, you will almost certainly be called upon to defend that which you
believe. Unless the roots of your testimony are firmly planted, it will be difficult for you to
withstand the ridicule of those who challenge your faith. When firmly planted, your
testimony of the gospel, of the Savior, and of our Heavenly Father will influence all that
you do throughout your life. The adversary would like nothing better than for you to
allow derisive comments and criticism of the Church to cause you to question and doubt.
Your testimony, when constantly nourished, will keep you safe.
Recall with me Lehis vision of the tree of life. He saw that many who had held to the iron
rod and had made their way through the mists of darkness, arriving at last at the tree of
life and partaking of the fruit of the tree, did then cast their eyes about as if they were
ashamed. Lehi wondered as to the cause of their embarrassment. As he looked about,
he beheld, on the other side of the river of water, a great and spacious building.
9

And it was filled with people, both old and young, both male and female; and their
manner of dress was exceedingly fine; and they were in the attitude of mocking and
pointing their fingers towards those who were partaking of the fruit.
10

The great and spacious building in Lehis vision represents those in the world who mock
Gods word and who ridicule those who embrace it and who love the Savior and live the
commandments. What happens to those who are ashamed when the mocking occurs?
Lehi tells us, And after they had tasted of the fruit they were ashamed, because of those
that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost.
11

My beloved young sisters, with the courage of your convictions, may you declare with
the Apostle Paul, I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God
unto salvation.
12

Lest you feel inadequate for the tasks which lie ahead, I remind you of another of the
Apostle Pauls stirring statements from which we might draw courage: For God hath not
given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
13

In closing may I share with you the account of a brave young woman whose experience
has stood through the ages as an example of the courage to stand for truth and
righteousness.
Most of you are familiar with the Old Testament account of Esther. It is a very interesting
and inspiring record of a beautiful young Jewish girl whose parents had died, leaving her
to be raised by an older cousin, Mordecai, and his wife.
Mordecai worked for the king of Persia, and when the king was looking for a queen,
Mordecai took Esther to the palace and presented her as a candidate, advising her not to
reveal that she was Jewish. The king was pleased with Esther above all the others and
made Esther his queen.
Haman, the chief prince in the kings court, became increasingly angry with Mordecai
because Mordecai would not bow down and pay homage to him. In retribution, Haman
convinced the kingin a rather devious mannerthat there were certain people in all
127 provinces of the kingdom whose laws were different from others and that they
would not obey the kings laws and should be destroyed. Without naming these people
to the king, Haman was, of course, referring to the Jews, including Mordecai.
14

With the kings permission to handle the matter, Haman sent letters to the governors of
all of the provinces, instructing them to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews,
both young and old, little children and women, [on] the thirteenth day of the twelfth
month.
15

Through a servant, Mordecai sent word to Esther concerning the decree against the Jews,
requesting that she go in to the king to plead for her people. Esther was at first reluctant,
reminding Mordecai that it was against the law for anyone to go unbidden into the inner
court of the king. Punishment by death would be the resultunless the king were to hold
out his golden scepter, allowing the person to live.
Mordecais response to Esthers hesitation was to the point. He replied to her thus:

Think not that thou shalt escape in the kings house, more than all the Jews.
For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, thou and thy fathers house shall
be destroyed.
16

And then he added this searching question: Who knoweth whether thou art come to the
kingdom for such a time as this?
17

In response, Esther asked Mordecai to gather all the Jews he could and to ask them to
fast three days for her and said that she and her handmaids would do the same. She
declared, I [will] go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I
perish. Esther had gathered her courage and would stand firm and immovable for that
which was right.
18

Physically, emotionally, and spiritually prepared, Esther stood in the inner court of the
kings house. When the king saw her, he held out his golden scepter, telling her that he
would grant whatever request she had. She invited the king to a feast she had arranged,
and during the feast she revealed that she was a Jew. She also exposed Hamans
underhanded plot to exterminate all of the Jews in the kingdom. Esthers plea to save
herself and her people was granted.
19

Esther, through fasting, faith, and courage, had saved a nation.

You will probably not be called upon to put your life on the line, as did Esther, for that
which you believe. You will, however, most likely find yourself in situations where great
courage will be required as you stand firm for truth and righteousness.
Again, my dear young sisters, although there have always been challenges in the world,
many of those which you face are unique to this time. But you are some of our Heavenly
Fathers strongest children, and He has saved you to come to the earth for such a time
as this. With His help, you will have the courage to face whatever comes. Though the
world may at times appear dark, you have the light of the gospel, which will be as a
beacon to guide your way.
20

My earnest prayer is that you will have the courage required to refrain from judging
others, the courage to be chaste and virtuous, and the courage to stand firm for truth
and righteousness. As you do so, you will be an example of the believers, and your life
will be filled with love and peace and joy. May this be so, my beloved young sisters, I ask
in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen.
21

April 2009 General Conference

Welcome to Conference
President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church

My brothers and sisters, I am pleased to report that the Church is doing very
well. The work of the Lord continues to move forward uninterrupted.
My dear brothers and sisters, as we open this, the 179th Annual General Conference, we
note with sadness the absence of Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles. We mourn his passing. We miss him. We extend our love to his family. I have no
doubt that he is carrying on this great work on the other side of the veil.
Because of the passing of Elder Wirthlin, there exists a vacancy in the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles. After much fasting and prayer, we have called Elder Neil Linden
Andersen to fill this vacancy. We present his name to you this morning for your
sustaining vote. All those of you who feel you can sustain him in this sacred calling will
please signify by the uplifted hand. Any who may be opposed may signify by the same
sign.
We thank you for your sustaining vote. Elder Andersens name will be included when the
officers of the Church are read this afternoon.
Elder Andersen, we invite you now to take your place on the stand with the members of
the Twelve. We look forward to hearing from you in the Sunday morning session of
conference.
Since we met six months ago, my brothers and sisters, I have traveled to Mexico City,
Mexico, with President and Sister Henry B. Eyring, to rededicate the temple there. For
many months it had been undergoing extensive renovations.
The evening before the rededication, a magnificent cultural event was held in the Aztec
Stadium. Approximately 87,000 spectators squeezed into the open-air stadium, and a
cast of more than 8,000 young people participated in the program, which featured an 80minute display of music, dance, and Mexican history.
President Eyring and I were each presented a serape and a sombrero. Outfitted in this
native costume, I couldnt resist serenading the group with an impromptu version of El
Rancho Grande, which I had originally learned in my ninth-grade Spanish class. I shall
not do that today.
Each of the two dedicatory sessions the following day were filled with the Spirit of the
Lord.
Just two weeks ago, in 12 sessions we dedicated the Draper Utah Temple, a magnificent
structure nestled in the foothills of the mountains in the south portion of the Salt Lake
Valley. There were approximately 685,000 peoplemembers and nonmembers alike
who attended the open house. Over 365,000 members were present at the dedicatory
sessions, including the sessions broadcast by satellite to various stake centers. The Spirit
of the Lord was present in rich abundance as the temple was dedicated.
In the near future, we will be dedicating the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple, and then in
the coming months and years there will be many more dedications. We look forward to
these occasions. There is something about a temple dedication which prompts a
reevaluation of ones own performance and a sincere desire to do even better.

Now, my brothers and sisters, I am pleased to report that the Church is doing very well.
The work of the Lord continues to move forward uninterrupted.
We now have approximately 53,000 missionaries serving in 348 missions throughout the
world. We take most seriously the Saviors mandate when He said, Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Ghost. We are deeply grateful for the labors of our missionaries and for the
sacrifices which they and their families make in order for them to serve.
1

We also have countless volunteers and missionaries in nonproselyting activities. These

are generally mature individuals who donate their time and talents in order to further the
work of the Lord and to bless our Heavenly Fathers children. How thankful we are for the
valuable services these individuals are providing.
The Perpetual Education Fund, established in 2001, continues to move forward. Since its
inception, 35,600 young men and young women have been enrolled in the program and
have trained to improve their skills and their employment opportunities. Thus far, 18,900
have finished that training. On average, with the 2.7 years of education they are now
receiving, they are increasing their income by three to four times. What a blessing this is
in their lives! This is indeed an inspired program.
My brothers and sisters, I thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel. I thank you
for the love and care you show to one another. I thank you for the service you provide in
your wards and branches and in your stakes and districts. It is such service that enables
the Lord to accomplish His purposes here upon the earth.
I express my thanks to you for your kindnesses to me wherever I go. I thank you for your
prayers in my behalf. I have felt those prayers and am most grateful for them.
Now, my brothers and sisters, we are anxious to listen to the messages which will be
presented to us during the next two days, that we might be taught and inspired and
have a renewed determination to live the gospel and to serve the Lord. Those who will
address us have sought heavens help and direction as they have prepared their
messages. They have been impressed concerning that which they will share with us.
To those of you who are new in the Church, we welcome you. To those of you who are
struggling with challenges or with disappointments or with losses, we pray for you. Our
Heavenly Father loves each of us and is mindful of our needs. May we be filled with His
Spirit as we listen to that which will be presented. Such is my prayer this morning as we
open this great conference. I also add a fond remembrance of President Gordon B.
Hinckley, who preceded me as President of the Church. Im sure hes serving well on the
other side. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2009 General Conference

Be Your Best Self

President Thomas S. Monson

President of the Church
Each must strive to learn his duty and then to do it to the best of his ability.
My beloved brethren of the priesthood assembled here in this full Conference Center and
in locations throughout the world, I am humbled by the responsibility which is mine to
address you. I endorse those messages which have already been presented and express
to each of you my sincere love, as well as my appreciation for your faith and your
devotion.
Brethren, our responsibilities as bearers of the priesthood are most significant, as
outlined in the Doctrine and Covenants: The power and authority of the higher, or
Melchizedek Priesthood, is to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church.
And further, The power and authority of the lesser, or Aaronic Priesthood, is to hold the
keys of the ministering of angels, and to administer in outward ordinances, the letter of
the gospel, the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, agreeable to the
covenants and commandments.
1

In 1958 Elder Harold B. Lee, who later served as the 11th President of the Church,
described the priesthood as the Lords troops against the forces of evil.
3

President John Taylor stated that the power manifested by the priesthood is simply the
power of God.
4

These stirring declarations from prophets of God help us to understand that each man
and each boy who holds the priesthood of God must be worthy of that great privilege
and responsibility. Each must strive to learn his duty and then to do it to the best of his
ability. As we do so, we provide the means by which our Heavenly Father and His Son,
Jesus Christ, can accomplish Their work here upon the earth. It is we who are Their
representatives here.
In the world today we face difficulties and challenges, some of which can seem truly
daunting. However, with God on our side we cannot fail. As we bear His holy priesthood
worthily, we will be victorious.
Now to you who hold the Aaronic Priesthood, may I say that I sincerely hope each of you
is aware of the significance of your priesthood ordination. Yours is a vital role in the life of
every member of your ward as you participate in the administration and passing of the
sacrament each Sunday.
I had the privilege to serve as the secretary of my deacons quorum. I recall the many
assignments we members of that quorum had the opportunity to fill. Passing the sacred
sacrament, collecting the monthly fast offerings, and looking after one another come
readily to mind. The most frightening one, however, happened at the leadership session
of our ward conference. The member of our stake presidency who was presiding called
on a number of the ward officers to speak. They did so. Then, without the slightest
warning, he stood and said, We will now call on one of our younger ward officers,
Thomas S. Monson, secretary of the deacons quorum, to give us an accounting of his

service and to bear his testimony. I dont remember a single thing I said, but I have
never forgotten the experience or the lesson that it taught me. It was the Apostle Peter
who said, Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of
the hope that is in you.
5

In an earlier generation, the Lord gave this promise to holders of the priesthood: I will
go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in
your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.
6

This is not a time for fear, brethren, but rather a time for faitha time for each of us who
holds the priesthood to be his best self.
Although our journey through mortality will at times place us in harms way, may I offer
you tonight three suggestions which, when observed and followed, will lead us to safety.
They are:
1. Study diligently.
2. Pray fervently.
3. Live righteously.
These suggestions are not new; they have been taught and repeated again and again. If
we incorporate them into our lives, however, we will have the strength to withstand the
adversary. Should we ignore them, we will be opening the door for Satan to have
influence and power over us.
First, study diligently. Every holder of the priesthood should participate in daily
scripture study. Crash courses are not nearly so effective as the day-to-day reading and
application of the scriptures in our lives. Become acquainted with the lessons the
scriptures teach. Learn the background and setting of the Masters parables and the
prophets admonitions. Study them as though they were speaking to you, for such is the
truth.
The prophet Lehi and his son Nephi were each shown in vision the importance of
obtaining and then holding fast to the word of God. Concerning the rod of iron shown
him, Nephi said this to his disbelieving brothers, Laman and Lemuel:
And I said unto them that [the rod] was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto
the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the
temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead
them away to destruction.
Wherefore, I, Nephi, did exhort them to give heed unto the word of the Lord; yea, I did
exhort them with all the energies of my soul, and with all the faculty which I possessed,
that they would give heed to the word of God and remember to keep his commandments
always in all things.
7

I promise you, whether you hold the Aaronic or the Melchizedek Priesthood, that if you
will study the scriptures diligently, your power to avoid temptation and to receive
direction of the Holy Ghost in all you do will be increased.

Second, pray fervently. With God, all things are possible. Men of the Aaronic
Priesthood, men of the Melchizedek Priesthood, remember the prayer of the Prophet
Joseph, offered in that grove called sacred. Look around you and see the result of that
answered prayer.
Adam prayed; Jesus prayed. We know the outcome of their prayers. He who notes the fall
of a sparrow surely hears the pleadings of our hearts. Remember the promise: If any of
you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;
and it shall be given him.
8

To those within the sound of my voice who are struggling with challenges and difficulties
large and small, prayer is the provider of spiritual strength; it is the passport to peace.
Prayer is the means by which we approach our Father in Heaven, who loves us. Speak to
Him in prayer and then listen for the answer. Miracles are wrought through prayer.
Sister Daisy Ogando lives in New York City, home to more than eight million people.
Some years ago Sister Ogando met with the missionaries and was taught the gospel.
Gradually, she and the missionaries lost contact. Time passed. Then, in 2007, the
principles of the gospel she had been taught by the missionaries stirred within her heart.
One day while getting into a taxi, Daisy saw the missionaries at a distance, but she was
unable to make contact with them before they disappeared from view. She prayed
fervently to our Heavenly Father and promised Him that if He would somehow direct the
missionaries to her once again, she would open her door to them. She returned home
that day with faith in her heart that God would hear and answer her prayer.
In the meantime, two young missionaries who had been sincerely praying and working to
find people to teach were one day examining the tracting records of missionaries who
had previously served in their area. As they did so, they came across the name of Daisy
Ogando. When they approached her apartment the very afternoon that Sister Ogando
offered that simple but fervent prayer, she opened the door and said those words that
are music to every missionary who has ever heard them: Elders, come in. Ive been
waiting for you!
Two fervent prayers were answered, contact was reestablished, missionary lessons were
taught, and arrangements were made for Daisy and her son Eddy to be baptized.
Remember to pray fervently.
My final suggestion, my brethren: live righteously. Isaiah, that great prophet of the Old
Testament, gave this stirring charge to holders of the priesthood: Touch no unclean
thing. Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord. Thats about as straight as it
could be given.
9

Holders of the priesthood may not necessarily be eloquent in their speech. They may not
hold advanced degrees in difficult fields of study. They may very well be men of humble
means. But God is no respecter of persons, and He will sustain His servants in
righteousness as they avoid the evils of our day and live lives of virtue and purity. May I
illustrate.

Some 900 miles (1,400 km) north of Salt Lake City is the beautiful city of Calgary,
Alberta, Canada, home of the famous Calgary Stampede, one of Canadas largest annual
events and the worlds largest outdoor rodeo. The 10-day event features a rodeo
competition, exhibits, agricultural competitions, and chuck wagon races. The Stampede
Parade, which occurs on opening day, is one of the festivals oldest and largest
traditions. The parade follows a nearly three-mile (5-km) route in downtown Calgary, with
attendance reaching 350,000 spectators, many dressed in western attire.
Several years ago, a marching band from a large high school in Utah had auditioned for
and had received one of the coveted entries to march in the Calgary Stampede Parade.
Months of fund-raising, early-morning practices up and down the streets, and other
preparations were undertaken in order for the band to travel to Calgary and participate
in the parade, where one band would be selected to receive the first-place honor.
Finally the day for departure arrived, with the eager students and their leaders boarding
the buses and heading north for the long journey to Calgary.
While en route, the caravan stopped in Cardston, Alberta, Canada, where the group
remained for an overnight stay. The local Relief Society sisters there prepared sack
lunches for the band members to enjoy before departing again. Brad, one of the band
members, who was a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood, was not hungry and decided to
keep his lunch until later.
Brad liked to sit in the back of the bus. As he took his usual seat there in preparation for
the remainder of the journey to Calgary, he tossed his sack lunch on the shelf behind the
last row of seats. There the lunch sat by the rear window as the July afternoon sun shone
through. Unfortunately, the sack lunch contained an egg salad sandwich. For those of
you who dont understand the significance of this, may I just say that egg salad must be
refrigerated. If it is not, and if it is subjected to high heat such as that which would be
produced by the sun beating through a bus window on a sunny day, it becomes a rather
efficient incubator for various strains of bacteria that can result in what may commonly
be referred to as food poisoning.
Sometime before arriving in Calgary, Brad grew hungry. Remembering the sack lunch, he
gulped down the egg salad sandwich. As the buses arrived in Calgary and drove around
the city, the members of the band grew excitedall except for Brad. Unfortunately, all
that grew within him were severe stomach pains and other discomforts associated with
food poisoning. You know what they are.
Upon arriving at their destination, the band members exited the bus. Brad, however, did
not. Although he knew his fellow band members were counting on him to play his drum
in the parade the following morning, Brad was doubled over in pain and was too sick to
leave the bus. Providentially for him, two of his friends, Steve and Mike, who had recently
graduated from high school and who had also recently been ordained to the office of
elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood, found that Brad was missing and decided to look for
him.
Finding Brad in the rear of the bus and learning what the problem was, Steve and Mike
felt helpless. Finally it occurred to them that they were elders and held the power of the
Melchizedek Priesthood to bless the sick. Despite their total lack of experience in giving a
priesthood blessing, these two new elders had faith in the power they held. They laid

their hands on Brads head and, invoking the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood, in
the name of Jesus Christ uttered the simple words to bless Brad to be made well.
From that moment, Brads symptoms were completely gone. The next morning he took
his place with the rest of the band members and proudly marched down the streets of
Calgary. The band received first-place honors and the coveted blue ribbon. Far more
important, however, was that two young, inexperienced but worthy priesthood holders
had answered the call to represent the Lord in serving their fellow man. When it was
necessary for them to exercise their priesthood in behalf of one who was desperately in
need of their help, they were able to respond because they lived their lives righteously.
Brethren, are we prepared for our journey through life? The pathway can at times be
difficult. Chart your course, be cautious, and determine to study diligently, pray
fervently, and live righteously.
Let us never despair, for the work in which we are engaged is the work of the Lord. It has
been said, The Lord shapes the back to bear the burden placed upon it.
The strength which we earnestly seek in order to meet the challenges of a complex and
changing world can be ours when, with fortitude and resolute courage, we stand and
declare with Joshua, As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. To this divine
truth I testify and do so in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, amen.
10

April
2009 General Conference

Be of Good Cheer
President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.
My dear brothers and sisters, I express my love to you. I am humbled by the
responsibility to address you, and yet I am grateful for the opportunity to do so.
Since last we met together in a general conference six months ago, there have been
continuing signs that circumstances in the world arent necessarily as we would wish.
The global economy, which six months ago appeared to be sagging, seems to have taken
a nosedive, and for many weeks now the financial outlook has been somewhat grim. In
addition, the moral footings of society continue to slip, while those who attempt to
safeguard those footings are often ridiculed and, at times, picketed and persecuted.
Wars, natural disasters, and personal misfortunes continue to occur.
It would be easy to become discouraged and cynical about the futureor even fearful of
what might comeif we allowed ourselves to dwell only on that which is wrong in the

world and in our lives. Today, however, Id like us to turn our thoughts and our attitudes
away from the troubles around us and to focus instead on our blessings as members of
the Church. The Apostle Paul declared, God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of
power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
1

None of us makes it through this life without problems and challengesand sometimes
tragedies and misfortunes. After all, in large part we are here to learn and grow from
such events in our lives. We know that there are times when we will suffer, when we will
grieve, and when we will be saddened. However, we are told, Adam fell that men might
be; and men are, that they might have joy.
2

How might we have joy in our lives, despite all that we may face? Again from the
scriptures: Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and
will stand by you.
3

The history of the Church in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times, is replete with
the experiences of those who have struggled and yet who have remained steadfast and
of good cheer as they have made the gospel of Jesus Christ the center of their lives. This
attitude is what will pull us through whatever comes our way. It will not remove our
troubles from us but rather will enable us to face our challenges, to meet them head on,
and to emerge victorious.
Too numerous to mention are the examples of all the individuals who have faced difficult
circumstances and yet who have persevered and prevailed because their faith in the
gospel and in the Savior has given them the strength they have needed. This morning,
however, Id like to share with you three such examples.
First, from my own family, I mention a touching experience that has always been an
inspiration to me.
My maternal great-grandparents Gibson and Cecelia Sharp Condie lived in Clackmannan,
Scotland. Their families were engaged in coal mining. They were at peace with the world,
surrounded by relatives and friends, and were housed in fairly comfortable quarters in a
land they loved. Then they listened to the message of the missionaries from The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and, to the depths of their very souls, were converted.
They heard the call to gather to Zion and knew they must answer that call.
Sometime around 1848, they sold their possessions and prepared for the hazardous
voyage across the mighty Atlantic Ocean. With five small children, they boarded a sailing
vessel, all their worldly possessions in one tiny trunk. They traveled 3,000 miles (4,800
km) across the waterseight long, weary weeks on a treacherous sea, watching and
waiting, with poor food, poor water, and no help beyond the length and breadth of that
small ship.
In the midst of this soul-trying situation, one of their young sons became ill. There were
no doctors, no stores at which they might purchase medicine to ease his suffering. They
watched, they prayed, they waited, and they wept as day by day his condition
deteriorated. When his eyes were at last closed in death, their hearts were torn asunder.
To add to their grief, the laws of the sea must be obeyed. Wrapped in a canvas weighed
down with iron, the little body was consigned to a watery grave. As they sailed away,
only those parents knew the crushing blow dealt to wounded hearts. However, with a
4

faith born of their deep conviction of the truth and their love of the Lord, Gibson and
Cecelia held on. They were comforted by the words of the Lord: In the world ye shall
have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
5

How grateful I am for ancestors who had the faith to leave hearth and home and to
journey to Zion, who made sacrifices I can scarcely imagine. I thank my Heavenly Father
for the example of faith, of courage, and of determination Gibson and Cecelia Sharp
Condie provide for me and for all their posterity.
I introduce next a gentle, faith-filled man who epitomized the peace and joy which the
gospel of Jesus Christ can bring into ones life.
Late one evening on a Pacific isle, a small boat slipped silently to its berth at the crude
pier. Two Polynesian women helped Meli Mulipola from the boat and guided him to the
well-worn pathway leading to the village road. The women marveled at the bright stars,
which twinkled in the midnight sky. The moonlight guided them along their way.
However, Meli Mulipola could not appreciate these delights of naturethe moon, the
stars, the skyfor he was blind.
Brother Mulipolas vision had been normal until a fateful day when, while working on a
pineapple plantation, light turned suddenly to darkness and day became perpetual night.
He was depressed and despondent until he learned the good news of the gospel of Jesus
Christ. His life was brought into compliance with the teachings of the Church, and he
once again felt hope and joy.
Brother Mulipola and his loved ones had made a long voyage, having learned that one
who held the priesthood of God was visiting among the islands of the Pacific. He sought a
blessing, and it was my privilege, along with another who held the Melchizedek
Priesthood, to provide that blessing to him. As we finished, I noted that tears were
streaming from his sightless eyes, coursing down his brown cheeks and tumbling finally
upon his native dress. He dropped to his knees and prayed: O God, Thou knowest I am
blind. Thy servants have blessed me that my sight might return. Whether in Thy wisdom
I see light or whether I see darkness all the days of my life, I will be eternally grateful for
the truth of Thy gospel, which I now see and which provides the light of my life.
He rose to his feet and, smiling, thanked us for providing the blessing. He then
disappeared into the still of the night. Silently he came; silently he departed. But his
presence I shall never forget. I reflected upon the message of the Master: I am the light
of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of
life.
6

My brothers and sisters, each of us has that light in his or her life. We are not left to walk
alone, no matter how dark our pathway.
I love the words penned by M. Louise Haskins:
And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year:
Give me a light, that I may tread safely into the unknown!
And he replied:
Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the Hand of God.
That shall be to you better than [a] light and safer than a known way.

The setting for my final example of one who persevered and ultimately prevailed, despite
overwhelmingly difficult circumstances, begins in East Prussia following World War II.
In about March 1946, less than a year after the end of the war, Ezra Taft Benson, then a
member of the Quorum of the Twelve, accompanied by Frederick W. Babbel, was
assigned a special postwar tour of Europe for the express purpose of meeting with the
Saints, assessing their needs, and providing assistance to them. Elder Benson and
Brother Babbel later recounted, from a testimony they heard, the experience of a Church
member who found herself in an area no longer controlled by the government under
which she had resided.
She and her husband had lived an idyllic life in East Prussia. Then had come the second
great world war within their lifetimes. Her beloved young husband was killed during the
final days of the frightful battles in their homeland, leaving her alone to care for their
four children.
The occupying forces determined that the Germans in East Prussia must go to Western
Germany to seek a new home. The woman was German, and so it was necessary for her
to go. The journey was over a thousand miles (1,600 km), and she had no way to
accomplish it but on foot. She was allowed to take only such bare necessities as she
could load into her small wooden-wheeled wagon. Besides her children and these
meager possessions, she took with her a strong faith in God and in the gospel as
revealed to the latter-day prophet Joseph Smith.
She and the children began the journey in late summer. Having neither food nor money
among her few possessions, she was forced to gather a daily subsistence from the fields
and forests along the way. She was constantly faced with dangers from panic-stricken
refugees and plundering troops.
As the days turned into weeks and the weeks to months, the temperatures dropped
below freezing. Each day, she stumbled over the frozen ground, her smallest childa
babyin her arms. Her three other children struggled along behind her, with the oldest
seven years oldpulling the tiny wooden wagon containing their belongings. Ragged and
torn burlap was wrapped around their feet, providing the only protection for them, since
their shoes had long since disintegrated. Their thin, tattered jackets covered their thin,
tattered clothing, providing their only protection against the cold.
Soon the snows came, and the days and nights became a nightmare. In the evenings she
and the children would try to find some kind of sheltera barn or a shedand would
huddle together for warmth, with a few thin blankets from the wagon on top of them.
She constantly struggled to force from her mind overwhelming fears that they would
perish before reaching their destination.
And then one morning the unthinkable happened. As she awakened, she felt a chill in her
heart. The tiny form of her three-year-old daughter was cold and still, and she realized
that death had claimed the child. Though overwhelmed with grief, she knew that she
must take the other children and travel on. First, however, she used the only implement
she hada tablespoonto dig a grave in the frozen ground for her tiny, precious child.

Death, however, was to be her companion again and again on the journey. Her sevenyear-old son died, either from starvation or from freezing or both. Again her only shovel
was the tablespoon, and again she dug hour after hour to lay his mortal remains gently
into the earth. Next, her five-year-old son died, and again she used her tablespoon as a
shovel.
Her despair was all consuming. She had only her tiny baby daughter left, and the poor
thing was failing. Finally, as she was reaching the end of her journey, the baby died in
her arms. The spoon was gone now, so hour after hour she dug a grave in the frozen
earth with her bare fingers. Her grief became unbearable. How could she possibly be
kneeling in the snow at the graveside of her last child? She had lost her husband and all
her children. She had given up her earthly goods, her home, and even her homeland.
In this moment of overwhelming sorrow and complete bewilderment, she felt her heart
would literally break. In despair she contemplated how she might end her own life, as so
many of her fellow countrymen were doing. How easy it would be to jump off a nearby
bridge, she thought, or to throw herself in front of an oncoming train.
And then, as these thoughts assailed her, something within her said, Get down on your
knees and pray. She ignored the prompting until she could resist it no longer. She knelt
and prayed more fervently than she had in her entire life:
Dear Heavenly Father, I do not know how I can go on. I have nothing leftexcept my
faith in Thee. I feel, Father, amidst the desolation of my soul, an overwhelming gratitude
for the atoning sacrifice of Thy Son, Jesus Christ. I cannot express adequately my love for
Him. I know that because He suffered and died, I shall live again with my family; that
because He broke the chains of death, I shall see my children again and will have the joy
of raising them. Though I do not at this moment wish to live, I will do so, that we may be
reunited as a family and returntogetherto Thee.
When she finally reached her destination of Karlsruhe, Germany, she was emaciated.
Brother Babbel said that her face was a purple-gray, her eyes red and swollen, her joints
protruding. She was literally in the advanced stages of starvation. In a Church meeting
shortly thereafter, she bore a glorious testimony, stating that of all the ailing people in
her saddened land, she was one of the happiest because she knew that God lived, that
Jesus is the Christ, and that He died and was resurrected so that we might live again. She
testified that she knew if she continued faithful and true to the end, she would be
reunited with those she had lost and would be saved in the celestial kingdom of God.
8

From the holy scriptures we read, Behold, the righteous, the saints of the Holy One of
Israel, they who have believed in [Him], they who have endured the crosses of the world,
they shall inherit the kingdom of God, and their joy shall be full forever.
9

I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm
clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the
gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us
and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments. There will
be nothing in this world that can defeat us.
My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as
your faith.

I declare that God lives and that He hears and answers our prayers. His Son, Jesus Christ,
is our Savior and our Redeemer. Heavens blessings await us. In the name of Jesus Christ,
amen.

April 2009 General Conference

Until We Meet Again

President Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May we long remember that which we have heard during this conference.
I urge you to study the messages and to ponder their teachings and then to
apply them in your life.
My beloved brothers and sisters, my heart is full and my feelings tender as we conclude
this great general conference.
We have been richly blessed as we have listened to the counsel and testimonies of those
who have spoken to us. I believe we are all more determined to live the principles of the
gospel of Jesus Christ.
I express my sincere thanks to each one who participated in the conference, including
those Brethren who offered prayers.
The music has been magnificent. How grateful I am for those blessed with musical
talents who are willing to share their talents with others. I am reminded of the scripture
found in the Doctrine and Covenants: For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart;
yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a
blessing upon their heads.
1

May we long remember that which we have heard during this conference. I remind you
that the messages will be printed in next months Ensign and Liahona magazines. I urge
you to study the messages and to ponder their teachings and then to apply them in your
life.
I want you to know how much I love and appreciate my devoted counselors, President
Henry B. Eyring and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. They are men of wisdom and
understanding. Their service is invaluable. I love and support my Brethren of the Quorum
of the Twelve Apostles. During this conference we sustained a new member of that
Quorum. He is completely dedicated to the work of the Lord, and I testify that he is the
man our Heavenly Father wants to fill this position at this time.
I express my love to the members of the Seventy and the Presiding Bishopric. They serve
selflessly and so effectively. Similarly, I pay tribute to the general auxiliary officers. In
accordance with our policy of rotation, we have sustained new general presidencies of

the Young Men and of the Sunday School. We look forward to working with them. We
thank those who were released from these positions at this conference and who served
so faithfully in these capacities.
My brothers and sisters, may we strive to live closer to the Lord. May we remember to
pray always lest [we] enter into temptation.
2

To you parents, express your love to your children. Pray for them that they may be able
to withstand the evils of the world. Pray that they may grow in faith and testimony. Pray
that they may pursue lives of goodness and of service to others.
Children, let your parents know you love them. Let them know how much you appreciate
all they have done and continue to do for you.
Now, a word of caution to allboth young and old, both male and female. We live at a
time when the adversary is using every means possible to ensnare us in his web of
deceit, trying desperately to take us down with him. There are many pathways along
which he entices us to gopathways that can lead to our destruction. Advances in many
areas that can be used for good can also be used to speed us along those heinous
pathways.
I feel to mention one in particular, and that is the Internet. On one hand, it provides
nearly limitless opportunities for acquiring useful and important information. Through it
we can communicate with others around the world. The Church itself has a wonderful
Web site, filled with valuable and uplifting information and priceless resources.
On the other hand, howeverand extremely alarmingare the reports of the number of
individuals who are utilizing the Internet for evil and degrading purposes, the viewing of
pornography being the most prevalent of these purposes. My brothers and sisters,
involvement in such will literally destroy the spirit. Be strong. Be clean. Avoid such
degrading and destructive types of content at all costswherever they may be! I sound
this warning to everyone, everywhere. I addparticularly to the young peoplethat this
includes pornographic images transmitted via cell phones.
My beloved friends, under no circumstances allow yourselves to become trapped in the
viewing of pornography, one of the most effective of Satans enticements. And if you
have allowed yourself to become involved in this behavior, cease now. Seek the help you
need to overcome and to change the direction of your life. Take the steps necessary to
get back on the strait and narrow, and then stay there.
May we say, with Joshua of old, Choose you this day whom ye will serve; but as for
me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
3

Now, my brothers and sisters, we have built temples throughout the world and will
continue to do so. To you who are worthy and able to attend the temple, I would
admonish you to go often. The temple is a place where we can find peace. There we
receive a renewed dedication to the gospel and a strengthened resolve to keep the
commandments.
What a privilege it is to be able to go to the temple, where we may experience the
sanctifying influence of the Spirit of the Lord. Great service is given when we perform

vicarious ordinances for those who have gone beyond the veil. In many cases we do not
know those for whom we perform the work. We expect no thanks, nor do we have the
assurance that they will accept that which we offer. However, we serve, and in that
process we attain that which comes of no other effort: we literally become saviors on
Mount Zion. As our Savior gave His life as a vicarious sacrifice for us, so we, in some
small measure, do the same when we perform proxy work in the temple for those who
have no means of moving forward unless something is done for them by those of us here
on the earth.
I am deeply grateful that as a church we continue to extend humanitarian aid where
there is great need. We have done much in this regard and have blessed the lives of
thousands upon thousands of our Fathers children who are not of our faith as well as
those who are. We intend to continue to help wherever such is needed. We express
gratitude to you for your contributions in this regard.
How grateful I am, my brothers and sisters, for the Restoration of the gospel in this
dispensation and for all the blessings that have come into my life and into your lives as a
result. We are a blessed people, for we have the sure knowledge that God lives and that
Jesus is the Christ.
May heavens blessings be with you. May your homes be filled with harmony and love.
May you constantly nourish your testimonies that they might be a protection to you
against the adversary.
As your humble servant, I desire with all my heart to do Gods will and to serve Him and
to serve you.
Now, my brothers and sisters, conference is over. As we return to our homes, may we do
so safely.
I love you. I pray for you. I would ask that you would remember me and all the General
Authorities in your prayers. Until we meet again in six months time, I ask the Lords
blessings to be upon all of us, and I do it in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord, our Savior,
amen.

October 2009 General Conference

Welcome to Conference
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
We desire that as many members as possible have an opportunity to attend
the temple without having to travel inordinate distances.

My beloved brothers and sisters, I extend my greetings to all of you as we commence

this, the 179th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints.
How grateful I am for the age in which we livean age of such advanced technology that
we are able to address you across the world. As the General Authorities and auxiliary
leaders stand here in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, our voices will be reaching
you by various means, including radio, television, satellite transmission, and the Internet.
Although we will be speaking to you in English, you will be hearing us in some 92
languages.
Since last we met in April of this year, we have dedicated the beautiful Oquirrh Mountain
Utah Temple in South Jordan, Utah. Sandwiched between the Draper Utah Temple
dedication in March and this most recent dedication of the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple
in August, a spectacular two-night cultural event was held, featuring youth from both
temple districts. The productions retraced the rich legacy of Utah through song and
dance. All told, approximately 14,000 youth participated over the two nights.
We continue to build temples. We desire that as many members as possible have an
opportunity to attend the temple without having to travel inordinate distances.
Worldwide, 83 percent of our members live within 200 miles (320 km) of a temple. That
percentage will continue to increase as we construct new temples around the world.
Currently there are 130 temples in operation, with 16 announced or under construction.
This morning I am pleased to announce 5 additional temples for which sites are being
acquired and which, in coming months and years, will be built in the following locations:
Brigham City, Utah; Concepcin, Chile; Fortaleza, Brazil; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and
Sapporo, Japan.
Millions of ordinances are performed in the temples each year in behalf of our deceased
loved ones. May we continue to be faithful in performing such ordinances for those who
are unable to do so for themselves. I love the words of President Joseph F. Smith as he
spoke of temple service and of the spirit world beyond mortality. Said he, Through our
efforts in their behalf their chains of bondage will fall from them, and the darkness
surrounding them will clear away, that light may shine upon them and they shall hear in
the spirit world of the work that has been done for them by their [people] here, and will
rejoice with you in your performance of these duties.
1

Brothers and sisters, the Church continues to grow, as it has since being organized over
179 years ago. It is changing the lives of more and more people every year and is
spreading far and wide over the earth as our missionary force seeks out those who are
looking for the truths which are found in the gospel of Jesus Christ. We call upon all
members of the Church to befriend the new converts, to reach out to them, to surround
them with love, and to help them feel at home.
I would ask that your faith and prayers continue to be offered in behalf of those areas
where our influence is limited and where we are not allowed to share the gospel freely at
this time. Miracles can occur as we do so.
Now, my brothers and sisters, we are anxious to listen to the messages which will be
presented to us during the next two days. Those who will address us have sought
heavens help and direction as they have prepared their messages. They have been

impressed concerning that which they will share with us. That we may be filled with the
Spirit of the Lord as we listen and learn is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2009 General Conference

School Thy Feelings, O My Brother

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
If we desire to have a proper spirit with us at all times, we must choose to
refrain from becoming angry.
Brethren, we are assembled as a mighty body of the priesthood, both here in the
Conference Center and in locations throughout the world. We have heard inspired
messages this evening, and I express my appreciation to those Brethren who have
addressed us. I am honored, yet humbled, by the privilege to speak to you, and I pray
that the inspiration of the Lord may attend me.
Recently as I watched the news on television, I realized that many of the lead stories
were similar in nature in that the tragedies reported all basically traced back to one
emotion: anger. The father of an infant had been arrested for physical abuse of the baby.
It was alleged that the babys crying had so infuriated him that he had broken one of the
childs limbs and several ribs. Alarming was the report of growing gang violence, with the
number of gang-related killings having risen sharply. Another story that night involved
the shooting of a woman by her estranged husband, who was reportedly in a jealous
rage after finding her with another man. Then, of course, there was the usual coverage
of wars and conflicts throughout the world.
I thought of the words of the Psalmist: Cease from anger, and forsake wrath.

Many years ago, a young couple called my office and asked if they could come in for
counseling. They indicated they had suffered a tragedy in their lives and that their
marriage was in serious jeopardy. An appointment was arranged.
The tension between this husband and wife was apparent as they entered my office.
Their story unfolded slowly at first as the husband spoke haltingly and the wife cried
quietly and participated very little in the conversation.
The young man had returned from serving a mission and was accepted to a prestigious
university in the eastern part of the United States. It was there, in a university ward, that
he had met his future wife. She was also a student at the university. After a year of
dating, they journeyed to Utah and were married in the Salt Lake Temple, returning east
shortly afterward to finish their schooling.

By the time they graduated and returned to their home state, they were expecting their
first child and the husband had employment in his chosen field. The wife gave birth to a
baby boy. Life was good.
When their son was about 18 months old, they decided to take a short vacation to visit
family members who lived a few hundred miles away. This was at a time when car seats
for children and seat belts for adults were scarcely heard of, let alone used. The three
members of the family all rode in the front seat with the toddler in the middle.
Sometime during the trip, the husband and wife had a disagreement. After all these
years, I cannot recall what caused it. But I do remember that their argument escalated
and became so heated that they were eventually yelling at one another. Understandably,
this caused their young son to begin crying, which the husband said only added to his
anger. Losing total control of his temper, he picked up a toy the child had dropped on the
seat and flung it in the direction of his wife.
He missed hitting his wife. Instead, the toy struck their son, with the result that he was
brain damaged and would be handicapped for the rest of his life.
This was one of the most tragic situations I had ever encountered. I counseled and
encouraged them. We talked of commitment and responsibility, of acceptance and
forgiveness. We spoke of the affection and respect which needed to return to their family.
We read words of comfort from the scriptures. We prayed together. Though I have not
heard from them since that day so long ago, they were smiling through their tears as
they left my office. All these years Ive hoped they made the decision to remain together,
comforted and blessed by the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I think of them whenever I read the words: Anger doesnt solve anything. It builds
nothing, but it can destroy everything.
2

Weve all felt anger. It can come when things dont turn out the way we want. It might be
a reaction to something which is said of us or to us. We may experience it when people
dont behave the way we want them to behave. Perhaps it comes when we have to wait
for something longer than we expected. We might feel angry when others cant see
things from our perspective. There seem to be countless possible reasons for anger.
There are times when we can become upset at imagined hurts or perceived injustices.
President Heber J. Grant, seventh President of the Church, told of a time as a young adult
when he did some work for a man who then sent him a check for $500 with a letter
apologizing for not being able to pay him more. Then President Grant did some work for
another manwork which he said was 10 times more difficult, involving 10 times more
labor and a great deal more time. This second man sent him a check for $150. Young
Heber felt he had been treated most unfairly. He was at first insulted and then incensed.
He recounted the experience to an older friend, who asked, Did that man intend to
insult you?
President Grant replied, No. He told my friends he had rewarded me handsomely.
To this the older friend replied, A mans a fool who takes an insult that isnt intended.

The Apostle Paul asks in Ephesians, chapter 4, verse 26 of the Joseph Smith Translation:
Can ye be angry, and not sin? let not the sun go down upon your wrath. I ask, is it
possible to feel the Spirit of our Heavenly Father when we are angry? I know of no
instance where such would be the case.
From 3 Nephi in the Book of Mormon, we read:
There shall be no disputations among you.
For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is
of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to
contend with anger, one with another.
Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against
another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away.
4

To be angry is to yield to the influence of Satan. No one can make us angry. It is our
choice. If we desire to have a proper spirit with us at all times, we must choose to refrain
from becoming angry. I testify that such is possible.
Anger, Satans tool, is destructive in so many ways.
I believe most of us are familiar with the sad account of Thomas B. Marsh and his wife,
Elizabeth. Brother Marsh was one of the first modern-day Apostles called after the
Church was restored to the earth. He eventually became President of the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles.
While the Saints were in Far West, Missouri, Elizabeth Marsh, Thomass wife, and her
friend Sister Harris decided they would exchange milk in order to make more cheese
than they otherwise could. To be certain all was done fairly, they agreed that they should
not save what were called the strippings, but that the milk and strippings should all go
together. Strippings came at the end of the milking and were richer in cream.
Sister Harris was faithful to the agreement, but Sister Marsh, desiring to make some
especially delicious cheese, saved a pint of strippings from each cow and sent Sister
Harris the milk without the strippings. This caused the two women to quarrel. When they
could not settle their differences, the matter was referred to the home teachers to settle.
They found Elizabeth Marsh guilty of failure to keep her agreement. She and her husband
were upset with the decision, and the matter was then referred to the bishop for a
Church trial. The bishops court decided that the strippings were wrongfully saved and
that Sister Marsh had violated her covenant with Sister Harris.
Thomas Marsh appealed to the high council, and the men comprising this council
confirmed the bishops decision. He then appealed to the First Presidency of the Church.
Joseph Smith and his counselors considered the case and upheld the decision of the high
council.
Elder Thomas B. Marsh, who sided with his wife through all of this, became angrier with
each successive decisionso angry, in fact, that he went before a magistrate and swore
that the Mormons were hostile toward the state of Missouri. His affidavit led toor at
least was a factor inGovernor Lilburn Boggss cruel extermination order, which resulted

in over 15,000 Saints being driven from their homes, with all the terrible suffering and
consequent death that followed. All of this occurred because of a disagreement over the
exchange of milk and cream.
5

After 19 years of rancor and loss, Thomas B. Marsh made his way to the Salt Lake Valley
and asked President Brigham Young for forgiveness. Brother Marsh also wrote to Heber C.
Kimball, First Counselor in the First Presidency, of the lesson he had learned. Said Brother
Marsh: The Lord could get along very well without me and He lost nothing by my
falling out of the ranks; But O what have I lost?! Riches, greater riches than all this world
or many planets like this could afford.
6

Apropos are the words of the poet John Greenleaf Whittier: Of all sad words of tongue or
pen, the saddest are these: It might have been!
7

My brethren, we are all susceptible to those feelings which, if left unchecked, can lead to
anger. We experience displeasure or irritation or antagonism, and if we so choose, we
lose our temper and become angry with others. Ironically, those others are often
members of our own familiesthe people we really love the most.
Many years ago I read the following Associated Press dispatch which appeared in the
newspaper: An elderly man disclosed at the funeral of his brother, with whom he had
shared, from early manhood, a small, one-room cabin near Canisteo, New York, that
following a quarrel, they had divided the room in half with a chalk line, and neither had
crossed the line or spoken a word to the other since that day62 years before. Just think
of the consequence of that anger. What a tragedy!
May we make a conscious decision, each time such a decision must be made, to refrain
from anger and to leave unsaid the harsh and hurtful things we may be tempted to say.
I love the words of the hymn written by Elder Charles W. Penrose, who served in the
Quorum of the Twelve and in the First Presidency during the early years of the 20th
century:
School thy feelings, O my brother;
Train thy warm, impulsive soul.
Do not its emotions smother,
But let wisdoms voice control.
School thy feelings; there is power
In the cool, collected mind.
Passion shatters reasons tower,
Makes the clearest vision blind.
8

Each of us is a holder of the priesthood of God. The oath and covenant of the priesthood
pertains to all of us. To those who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, it is a declaration of
our requirement to be faithful and obedient to the laws of God and to magnify the
callings which come to us. To those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood, it is a
pronouncement concerning future duty and responsibility, that you may prepare
yourselves here and now.
This oath and covenant is set forth by the Lord in these words:

For whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken,
and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their
bodies.
They become the sons of Moses and of Aaron and the seed of Abraham, and the church
and kingdom, and the elect of God.
And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord;
For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me;
And he that receiveth me receiveth my Father;
And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Fathers kingdom; therefore all that my
Father hath shall be given unto him.
9

Brethren, great promises await us if we are true and faithful to the oath and covenant of
this precious priesthood which we hold. May we be worthy sons of our Heavenly Father.
May we ever be exemplary in our homes and faithful in keeping all of the
commandments, that we may harbor no animosity toward any man but rather be
peacemakers, ever remembering the Saviors admonition, By this shall all men know
that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. This is my plea tonight at the
conclusion of this great priesthood meeting, and its also my humble and sincere prayer,
for I love you, brethren, with all my heart and soul. And I pray our Heavenly Fathers
blessing to attend each of you in your life, in your home, in your heart, in your soul, in
the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
10

October 2009 General Conference

What Have I Done for Someone Today?

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
The needs of others are ever present, and each of us can do something to
help someone.
My beloved brothers and sisters, I greet you this morning with love in my heart for the
gospel of Jesus Christ and for each of you. I am grateful for the privilege to stand before
you, and I pray that I might effectively communicate to you that which I have felt
prompted to say.
A few years ago I read an article written by Jack McConnell, MD. He grew up in the hills of
southwest Virginia in the United States as one of seven children of a Methodist minister
and a stay-at-home mother. Their circumstances were very humble. He recounted that
during his childhood, every day as the family sat around the dinner table, his father

would ask each one in turn, And what did you do for someone today? The children
were determined to do a good turn every day so they could report to their father that
they had helped someone. Dr. McConnell calls this exercise his fathers most valuable
legacy, for that expectation and those words inspired him and his siblings to help others
throughout their lives. As they grew and matured, their motivation for providing service
changed to an inner desire to help others.
1

Besides Dr. McConnells distinguished medical careerwhere he directed the

development of the tuberculosis tine test, participated in the early development of the
polio vaccine, supervised the development of Tylenol, and was instrumental in
developing the magnetic resonance imaging procedure, or MRIhe created an
organization he calls Volunteers in Medicine, which gives retired medical personnel a
chance to volunteer at free clinics serving the working uninsured. Dr. McConnell said his
leisure time since he retired has evaporated into 60-hour weeks of unpaid work, but
[his] energy level has increased and there is a satisfaction in [his] life that wasnt there
before. He made this statement: In one of those paradoxes of life, I have benefited
more from Volunteers in Medicine than my patients have. There are now over 70 such
clinics across the United States.
2

Of course, we cant all be Dr. McConnells, establishing medical clinics to help the poor;
however, the needs of others are ever present, and each of us can do something to help
someone.
The Apostle Paul admonished, By love serve one another. Recall with me the familiar
words of King Benjamin in the Book of Mormon: When ye are in the service of your
fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.
3

The Savior taught His disciples, For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but
whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.
5

I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there
is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel
up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others
grow and flourishand in effect save their lives.
In the October 1963 general conferencethe conference at which I was sustained as a
member of the Quorum of the Twelve ApostlesPresident David O. McKay made this
statement: Mans greatest happiness comes from losing himself for the good of others.

Often we live side by side but do not communicate heart to heart. There are those within
the sphere of our own influence who, with outstretched hands, cry out, Is there no balm
in Gilead?
7

I am confident it is the intention of each member of the Church to serve and to help
those in need. At baptism we covenanted to bear one anothers burdens, that they may
be light. How many times has your heart been touched as you have witnessed the need
of another? How often have you intended to be the one to help? And yet how often has
day-to-day living interfered and youve left it for others to help, feeling that oh, surely
someone will take care of that need.
8

We become so caught up in the busyness of our lives. Were we to step back, however,
and take a good look at what were doing, we may find that we have immersed ourselves
in the thick of thin things. In other words, too often we spend most of our time taking
care of the things which do not really matter much at all in the grand scheme of things,
neglecting those more important causes.
Many years ago I heard a poem which has stayed with me, by which I have tried to guide
my life. Its one of my favorites:
I have wept in the night
For the shortness of sight
That to somebodys need made me blind;
But I never have yet
Felt a tinge of regret
For being a little too kind.
9

My brothers and sisters, we are surrounded by those in need of our attention, our
encouragement, our support, our comfort, our kindnessbe they family members,
friends, acquaintances, or strangers. We are the Lords hands here upon the earth, with
the mandate to serve and to lift His children. He is dependent upon each of us.
You may lament: I can barely make it through each day, doing all that I need to do. How
can I provide service for others? What can I possibly do?
Just over a year ago, I was interviewed by the Church News prior to my birthday. At the
conclusion of the interview, the reporter asked what I would consider the ideal gift that
members worldwide could give to me. I replied, Find someone who is having a hard time
or is ill or lonely, and do something for him or her.
10

I was overwhelmed when this year for my birthday I received hundreds of cards and
letters from members of the Church around the world telling me how they had fulfilled
that birthday wish. The acts of service ranged from assembling humanitarian kits to
doing yard work.
Dozens and dozens of Primaries challenged the children to provide service, and then
those acts of service were recorded and sent to me. I must say that the methods for
recording them were creative. Many came in the form of pages put together into various
shapes and sizes of books. Some contained cards or pictures drawn or colored by the
children. One very creative Primary sent a large jar containing hundreds of what they
called warm fuzzies, each one representing an act of service performed during the year
by one of the children in the Primary. I can only imagine the happiness these children
experienced as they told of their service and then placed a warm fuzzy in the jar.
I share with you just a few of the countless notes contained in the many gifts I received.
One small child wrote, My grandpa had a stroke, and I held his hand. From an 8-yearold girl: My sister and I served my mom and family by organizing and cleaning the toy
closet. It took us a few hours and we had fun. The best part was that we surprised my
mom and made her happy because she didnt even ask us to do it. An 11-year-old girl
wrote: There was a family in my ward that did not have a lot of money. They have three
little girls. The mom and dad had to go somewhere, so I offered to watch the three girls.
The dad was just about to hand me a $5 bill. I said, I cant take [it]. My service was that

I watched the girls for free. A Primary child in Mongolia wrote that he had brought in
water from the well so his mother would not have to do so. From a 4-year-old boy, no
doubt written by a Primary teacher: My dad is gone for army training for a few weeks.
My special job is to give my mom hugs and kisses. Wrote a 9-year-old girl: I picked
strawberries for my great-grandma. I felt good inside! And another: I played with a
lonely kid.
From an 11-year-old boy: I went to a ladys house and asked her questions and sang her
a song. It felt good to visit her. She was happy because she never gets visitors. Reading
this particular note reminded me of words penned long ago by Elder Richard L. Evans of
the Quorum of the Twelve. Said he: It is difficult for those who are young to understand
the loneliness that comes when life changes from a time of preparation and performance
to a time of putting things away. To be so long the center of a home, so much sought
after, and then, almost suddenly to be on the sidelines watching the procession pass by
this is living into loneliness. We have to live a long time to learn how empty a room
can be that is filled only with furniture. It takes someone beyond mere hired service,
beyond institutional care or professional duty, to thaw out the memories of the past and
keep them warmly living in the present. We cannot bring them back the morning
hours of youth. But we can help them live in the warm glow of a sunset made more
beautiful by our thoughtfulness and unfeigned love.
11

My birthday cards and notes came also from teenagers in Young Men and Young Women
classes who made blankets for hospitals, served in food pantries, were baptized for the
dead, and performed numerous other acts of service.
Relief Societies, where help can always be found, provided service above and beyond
that which they would normally have given. Priesthood groups did the same.
My brothers and sisters, my heart has seldom been as touched and grateful as it was
when Sister Monson and I literally spent hours reading of these gifts. My heart is full now
as I speak of the experience and contemplate the lives which have been blessed as a
result, for both the giver and the receiver.
The words from the 25th chapter of Matthew come to mind:
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the
foundation of the world:
For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was
a stranger, and ye took me in:
Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came
unto me.
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and
fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye
have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
12

My brothers and sisters, may we ask ourselves the question which greeted Dr. Jack
McConnell and his brothers and sisters each evening at dinnertime: What have I done
for someone today? May the words of a familiar hymn penetrate our very souls and find
lodgment in our hearts:
Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyones burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?
13

That service to which all of us have been called is the service of the Lord Jesus Christ.
As He enlists us to His cause, He invites us to draw close to Him. He speaks to you and to
me:
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall
find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

14

If we truly listen, we may hear that voice from far away say to us, as it spoke to another,
Well done, thou good and faithful servant. That each may qualify for this blessing from
our Lord is my prayer, and I offer it in His name, even Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen.
15

October 2009 General Conference

Closing Remarks
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
If we heed His words and live the commandments, we will survive this time
of permissiveness and wickedness.
My heart is full as we come to the close of this conference. We have been richly taught
and spiritually edified as we have listened to the messages which have been presented
and the testimonies which have been borne. We express thanks to each one who has
participated, including those Brethren offering prayers.

Once again the music has been wonderful. I express my personal gratitude for those
willing to share with us their talents, touching and inspiring us in the process. The
beautiful music they produce enhances and enriches each session of conference.
We remind you that the messages we have heard during this conference will be printed
in the November issues of the Ensign and Liahona magazines. As we read and study
them, we will be additionally taught and inspired. May we incorporate into our daily lives
the truths found therein.
We express to those Brethren who have been released during this conference our deep
appreciation. They have served well and have made significant contributions to the work
of the Lord. Their dedication has been complete. We thank them from the bottom of our
hearts.
We live at a time when many in the world have slipped from the moorings of safety
found in compliance with the commandments. It is a time of permissiveness, with society
in general routinely disregarding and breaking the laws of God. We often find ourselves
swimming against the current, and sometimes it seems as though the current could carry
us away.
I am reminded of the words of the Lord found in the book of Ether in the Book of Mormon.
Said the Lord, Ye cannot cross this great deep save I prepare you against the waves of
the sea, and the winds which have gone forth, and the floods which shall come. My
brothers and sisters, He has prepared us. If we heed His words and live the
commandments, we will survive this time of permissiveness and wickednessa time
which can be compared with the waves and the winds and the floods that can destroy.
He is ever mindful of us. He loves us and will bless us as we do what is right.
1

How grateful we are that the heavens are indeed open, that the gospel of Jesus Christ
has been restored, and that the Church is founded on the rock of revelation. We are a
blessed people, with apostles and prophets upon the earth today.
Now, as we leave this conference, I invoke the blessings of heaven upon each of you.
May all of you return safely to your homes. As you ponder the things you have heard
during this conference, may you say, with the people of King Benjamin who all cried with
one voice, We believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know
of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has
wrought a mighty change in us that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do
good continually. May every man and woman, boy and girl leave this conference a
better person than he or she was when it began two days ago.
2

I love you, my brothers and sisters. I pray for you. I would ask once again that you would
remember me and all the General Authorities in your prayers. We are one with you in
moving forward this marvelous work. I testify to you that we are all in this together and
that every man, woman, and child has a part to play. May God give us the strength and
the ability and the determination to play our part well.
I bear my testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He
guides and directs His Church here upon the earth. I leave with you my witness and my
testimony that God our Eternal Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He
is personal and real.

May God bless you. May His promised peace be with you now and always.
I bid you farewell until we meet again in six months time, and do so in the name of Jesus
Christ, our Savior and Redeemer and our Advocate with the Father, amen.

April 2010 General Conference

Welcome to Conference
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Thank you, my brothers and sisters, for your faith and devotion to the
gospel of Jesus Christ.
How good it is, my beloved brothers and sisters, to meet together once again. This
conference marks 180 years since the Church was organized. How grateful we are for the
Prophet Joseph Smith, who sought for the truth, who found it, and who, under the
direction of the Lord, restored the gospel and organized the Church.
The Church has grown steadily since that day in 1830. It continues to change the lives of
more and more people every year and to spread across the earth as our missionary force
seeks out those who are searching for the truth. Once again we call upon the members
of the Church to reach out to the new converts or to those making their way back into
the Church, to surround them with love and to help them feel at home.
Thank you, my brothers and sisters, for your faith and devotion to the gospel of Jesus
Christ. Thank you for all that you do in your wards and branches, in your stakes and
districts. You serve willingly and well and accomplish great good. May the Lord bless you
as you strive to follow Him and to obey His commandments.
Since last we met, the Church has continued to provide much-needed humanitarian
assistance in various locations around the world. In the past three months alone,
humanitarian assistance has been provided in French Polynesia, Mongolia, Bolivia, Peru,
Arizona, Mexico, Portugal, and Uganda, among other areas. Most recently we have
assisted in Haiti and Chile following devastating earthquakes and tsunamis in those
areas. We express our love to our Church members who have suffered in these disasters.
You are in our prayers. We express profound gratitude to all of you for your willingness to
assist with our humanitarian efforts by sharing your resources and, in many cases, your
time, your talents, and your expertise.
This year marks 25 years since our humanitarian program became part of our welfare
effort. The number of individuals assisted by this program could never adequately be
measured. We will always strive to be among the first on the scene of disasters,
wherever they may occur.

The Church continues to grow and to move forward. The building of temples is an
indication of such growth. Recently we announced a new temple which will be built in
Payson, Utah. We also announced major renovations which will be made to the Ogden
Utah Temple. Within the next three months we will dedicate new temples in Vancouver,
British Columbia; in the Gila Valley, Arizona; and in Cebu City in the Philippines. Later in
the year other temples will be dedicated or rededicated. We will continue to build
temples throughout the world as our membership grows. Each year millions of
ordinances are performed in the temples for our deceased loved ones. May we continue
to be faithful in performing such ordinances for those who are unable to do so for
themselves.
Many of you are aware that a short time after October conference, my dear wife,
Frances, suffered a fall, which left her with a broken hip and a broken shoulder. After two
successful surgeries and several weeks of hospitalization, she was able to return home.
She is doing well and continues to make progress toward a full recovery. She was able to
attend the general Young Women meeting last Saturday and plans to attend a session or
two this weekend. In fact, at the last minute she said, Im going today! And shes here!
She joins me in expressing our deep gratitude to our Heavenly Father and to all of you
for your prayers and your well wishes in her behalf.
Now, brothers and sisters, we have come here to be instructed and inspired. We
welcome those of you who are new in the Church. Others of you are struggling with
problems, with challenges, with disappointments, with losses. We love you and we pray
for you. Many messages, covering a variety of gospel topics, will be given during the
next two days. Those men and women who will speak to you have sought heavens help
concerning the messages they will give.
It is my prayer that we may be filled with His Spirit as we listen and learn. That this may
be so, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, amen.

April 2010 General Conference

Preparation Brings Blessings

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Let us consider our callings, let us reflect on our responsibilities, and let us
follow Jesus Christ.
Brethren, you who are here in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City are an inspiring
sight to behold. It is amazing to realize that in thousands of chapels throughout the
world, others of youfellow holders of the priesthood of Godare receiving this
broadcast by way of satellite transmission. Your nationalities vary, and your languages
are many, but a common thread binds us together. We have been entrusted to bear the

priesthood and to act in the name of God. We are the recipients of a sacred trust. Much is
expected of us.
One of my most vivid memories is attending priesthood meeting as a newly ordained
deacon and singing the opening hymn Come, All Ye Sons of God. Tonight I echo the
spirit of that special hymn and say to you, Come, all ye sons of God who have received
the priesthood. Let us consider our callings, let us reflect on our responsibilities, and let
us follow Jesus Christ, our Lord.
1

Twenty years ago I attended a sacrament meeting where the children responded to the
theme I Belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These boys and girls
demonstrated they were in training for service to the Lord and to others. The music was
beautiful, the recitations skillfully rendered, and the spirit heaven-sent. One of my
grandsons, who was 11 years old at that time, had spoken of the First Vision as he
presented his part on the program. Afterward, as he came to his parents and
grandparents, I said to him, Tommy, I think you are almost ready to be a missionary.
He replied, Not yet. I still have a lot to learn.
Through the years that followed, Tommy did learn, thanks to his parents and to teachers
and advisers at church, who were dedicated and conscientious. When he was old
enough, he was called to serve a mission. He did so in a most honorable fashion.
Young men, I admonish you to prepare for service as a missionary. There are many tools
to help you learn the lessons which will be beneficial to you as well as helping you to live
the life you will need to have lived to be worthy. One such tool is the booklet entitled For
the Strength of Youth, published under the direction of the First Presidency and Quorum
of the Twelve Apostles. It features standards from the writings and teachings of Church
leaders and from scripture, adherence to which will bring the blessings of our Heavenly
Father and the guidance of His Son to each of us. In addition, there are lesson manuals,
carefully prepared after prayerful consideration. Families have family home evenings,
where gospel principles are taught. Almost all of you have the opportunity to attend
seminary classes taught by dedicated teachers who have much to share.
Begin to prepare for a temple marriage as well as for a mission. Proper dating is a part of
that preparation. In cultures where dating is appropriate, do not date until you are 16
years old. Not all teenagers need to date or even want to. When you begin dating, go
in groups or on double dates. Make sure your parents meet [and become acquainted
with] those you date. Because dating is a preparation for marriage, date only those
who have high standards.
2

Be careful to go to places where there is a good environment, where you wont be faced
with temptation.
A wise father said to his son, If you ever find yourself in a place where you shouldnt
ought to be, get out! Good advice for all of us.
Servants of the Lord have always counseled us to dress appropriately to show respect for
our Heavenly Father and for ourselves. The way you dress sends messages about
yourself to others and often influences the way you and others act. Dress in such a way

as to bring out the best in yourself and those around you. Avoid extremes in clothing and
appearance, including tattoos and piercings.
Everyone needs good friends. Your circle of friends will greatly influence your thinking
and behavior, just as you will theirs. When you share common values with your friends,
you can strengthen and encourage each other. Treat everyone with kindness and dignity.
Many nonmembers have come into the Church through friends who have involved them
in Church activities.
The oft-repeated adage is ever true: Honesty [is] the best policy. A Latter-day Saint
young man lives as he teaches and as he believes. He is honest with others. He is honest
with himself. He is honest with God. He is honest by habit and as a matter of course.
When a difficult decision must be made, he never asks himself, What will others think?
but rather, What will I think of myself?
3

For some, there will come the temptation to dishonor a personal standard of honesty. In a
business law class at the university I attended, I remember that one particular classmate
never prepared for the class discussions. I thought to myself, How is he going to pass
the final examination?
I discovered the answer when he came to the classroom for the final exam on a winters
day wearing on his bare feet only a pair of sandals. I was surprised and watched him as
the class began. All of our books had been placed upon the floor, as per the instruction.
He slipped the sandals from his feet; and then, with toes that he had trained and had
prepared with glycerin, he skillfully turned the pages of one of the books which he had
placed on the floor, thereby viewing the answers to the examination questions.
He received one of the highest grades in that course on business law. But the day of
reckoning came. Later, as he prepared to take his comprehensive exam, for the first time
the dean of his particular discipline said, This year I will depart from tradition and will
conduct an oral, rather than a written, test. Our favorite trained-toe expert found that
he had his foot in his mouth on that occasion and failed the exam.
How you speak and the words you use tell much about the image you choose to portray.
Use language to build and uplift those around you. Profane, vulgar, or crude language
and inappropriate or off-color jokes are offensive to the Lord. Never misuse the name of
God or Jesus Christ. The Lord said, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in
vain.
4

Our Heavenly Father has counseled us to seek after anything virtuous, lovely, or of good
report or praiseworthy. Whatever you read, listen to, or watch makes an impression on
you.
5

Pornography is especially dangerous and addictive. Curious exploration of pornography

can become a controlling habit, leading to coarser material and to sexual transgression.
Avoid pornography at all costs.
Dont be afraid to walk out of a movie, turn off a television set, or change a radio station
if whats being presented does not meet your Heavenly Fathers standards. In short, if
you have any question about whether a particular movie, book, or other form of
entertainment is appropriate, dont see it, dont read it, dont participate.

The Apostle Paul declared: Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the
Spirit of God dwelleth in you? The temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
Brethren, it is our responsibility to keep our temples clean and pure.
6

Hard drugs, wrongful use of prescription drugs, alcohol, coffee, tea, and tobacco products
destroy your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Any form of alcohol is harmful to
your spirit and your body. Tobacco can enslave you, weaken your lungs, and shorten your
life.
Music can help you draw closer to your Heavenly Father. It can be used to educate, edify,
inspire, and unite. However, music can, by its tempo, beat, intensity, and lyrics, dull your
spiritual sensitivity. You cannot afford to fill your minds with unworthy music.
Because sexual intimacy is so sacred, the Lord requires self-control and purity before
marriage as well as full fidelity after marriage. In dating, treat your date with respect and
expect your date to show that same respect for you. Tears inevitably follow
transgression.
President David O. McKay, ninth President of the Church, advised, I implore you to think
clean thoughts. He then made this significant declaration of truth: Every action is
preceded by a thought. If we want to control our actions, we must control our thinking.
Brethren, fill your minds with good thoughts, and your actions will be proper. May each of
you be able to echo in truth the line from Tennyson spoken by Sir Galahad: My strength
is as the strength of ten, because my heart is pure.
7

Not long ago the author of a paper on teenage sexuality summed up his research by
saying that society sends teens a mixed message: advertisements and the mass media
convey very heavy messages that sexual activity is acceptable and expected,
inducements that sometimes drown out the warnings of experts and the pleas of
parents. The Lord cuts through all the media messages with clear and precise language
when He declares to us, Be ye clean.
8

Whenever temptation comes, remember the wise counsel of the Apostle Paul, who
declared, There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God
is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the
temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
9

When you were confirmed a member of the Church, you received the right to the
companionship of the Holy Ghost. He can help you make good choices. When challenged
or tempted, you do not need to feel alone. Remember that prayer is the passport to
spiritual power.
If any has stumbled in his journey, there is a way back. The process is called repentance.
Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. Though the path is difficult, the
promise is real: Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.
10

Dont put your eternal life at risk. Keep the commandments of God. If you have sinned,
the sooner you begin to make your way back, the sooner you will find the sweet peace
and joy that come with the miracle of forgiveness. Happiness comes from living the way
the Lord wants you to live and from service to God and others.

Spiritual strength frequently comes through selfless service. Some years ago I visited
what was then called the California Mission, where I interviewed a young missionary from
Georgia. I recall saying to him, Do you send a letter home to your parents every week?
He replied, Yes, Brother Monson.
Then I asked, Do you enjoy receiving letters from home?
He didnt answer. At length I inquired, When was the last time you had a letter from
home?
With a quavering voice, he responded, Ive never had a letter from home. Fathers just a
deacon, and Mothers not a member of the Church. They pleaded with me not to come.
They said that if I left on a mission, they would not be writing to me. What shall I do,
Brother Monson?
I offered a silent prayer to my Heavenly Father: What should I tell this young servant of
Thine, who has sacrificed everything to serve Thee? And the inspiration came. I said,
Elder, you send a letter home to your mother and father every week of your mission.
Tell them what you are doing. Tell them how much you love them and then bear your
testimony to them.
He asked, Will they then write to me?
I responded, Then they will write to you.
We parted and I went on my way. Months later I was attending a stake conference in
Southern California when a young missionary came up to me and said, Brother Monson,
do you remember me? Im the missionary who had not received a letter from my mother
or my father during my first nine months in the mission field. You told me, Send a letter
home every week, Elder, and your parents will write to you. Then he asked, Do you
remember that promise, Elder Monson?
I remembered. I inquired, Have you heard from your parents?
He reached into his pocket and took out a sheaf of letters with an elastic band around
them, took a letter from the top of the stack, and said, Have I heard from my parents!
Listen to this letter from my mother: Son, we so much enjoy your letters. Were proud of
you, our missionary. Guess what? Dad has been ordained a priest. Hes preparing to
baptize me. Im meeting with the missionaries; and one year from now we want to come
to California as you complete your mission, for we, with you, would like to become a
forever family by entering the temple of the Lord. This young missionary asked,
Brother Monson, does Heavenly Father always answer prayers and fulfill Apostles
promises?
I replied, When one has faith as you have demonstrated, our Heavenly Father hears
such prayers and answers in His own way.
Clean hands, a pure heart, and a willing mind had touched heaven. A blessing, heavensent, had answered the fervent prayer of a missionarys humble heart.

Brethren, it is my prayer that we may so live that we too may touch heaven and be
similarly blessed, each and every one, in the name of the Giver of all blessings, even
Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2010 General Conference

He Is Risen!
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
The empty tomb that first Easter morning was the answer to Jobs question,
If a man die, shall he live again?
This has been a remarkable session. In behalf of all who participated thus far in word or
music, as the President of the Church, I have chosen simply to say to you at this moment
just two words, known as the two most important words in the English language. To
Sister Cheryl Lant and her counselors, the choir, the musicians, the speakers, those
words are Thank you.
Many years ago, while in London, England, I visited the famed Tate art gallery. Works by
Gainsborough, Rembrandt, Constable, and other renowned artists were displayed in
room after room. I admired their beauty and recognized the skill which had been required
to create these masterpieces. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the third floor, however,
was a painting which not only caught my attention but also captured my heart. The
artist, Frank Bramley, had painted a humble cottage facing a windswept sea. Two
women, the mother and the wife of an absent fisherman, had watched and waited the
night through for his return. Now the night had passed, and the realization had set in
that he had been lost at sea and would not return. Kneeling at the side of her mother-inlaw, her head buried in the lap of the older woman, the young wife wept in despair. The
spent candle on the window ledge told of the fruitless vigil.
I sensed the young womans heartache; I felt her grief. The hauntingly vivid inscription
which the artist gave to his work told the tragic story. It read, A Hopeless Dawn.
Oh, how the young woman longed for the comfort, even the reality, of Robert Louis
Stevensons Requiem:
Home is the sailor, home from sea,
And the hunter home from the hill.

Among all the facts of mortality, none is so certain as its end. Death comes to all; it is
our universal heritage; it may claim its victim[s] in infancy or youth, [it may visit] in the
period of lifes prime, or its summons may be deferred until the snows of age have
gathered upon the head; it may befall as the result of accident or disease, or
through natural causes; but come it must. It inevitably represents a painful loss of
2

association and, particularly in the young, a crushing blow to dreams unrealized,

ambitions unfulfilled, and hopes vanquished.
What mortal being, faced with the loss of a loved one or, indeed, standing himself or
herself on the threshold of infinity, has not pondered what lies beyond the veil which
separates the seen from the unseen?
Centuries ago the man Jobso long blessed with every material gift, only to find himself
sorely afflicted by all that can befall a human beingsat with his companions and
uttered the timeless, ageless question, If a man die, shall he live again? Job spoke
what every other living man or woman has pondered.
3

This glorious Easter morning Id like to consider Jobs questionIf a man die, shall he
live again?and provide the answer which comes not only from thoughtful
consideration but also from the revealed word of God. I begin with the essentials.
If there is a design in this world in which we live, there must be a Designer. Who can
behold the many wonders of the universe without believing that there is a design for all
mankind? Who can doubt that there is a Designer?
In the book of Genesis we learn that the Grand Designer created the heaven and the
earth: And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the
deep.
Let there be light, said the Grand Designer, and there was light. He created a
firmament. He separated the land from the waters and said, Let the earth bring forth
grass, the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself.
Two lights He createdthe sun and the moon. Came the stars by His design. He called
for living creatures in the water and fowls to fly above the earth. And it was so. He made
cattle, beasts, and creeping things. The design was nearly complete.
Last of all, He created man in His own imagemale and femalewith dominion over all
other living things.
4

Man alone received intelligencea brain, a mind, and a soul. Man alone, with these
attributes, had the capacity for faith and hope, for inspiration and ambition.
Who could persuasively argue that manthe noblest work of the Great Designer, with
dominion over all living things, with a brain and a will, with a mind and a soul, with
intelligence and divinityshould come to an end when the spirit forsakes its earthly
temple?
To understand the meaning of death, we must appreciate the purpose of life. The dim
light of belief must yield to the noonday sun of revelation, by which we know that we
lived before our birth into mortality. In our premortal state, we were doubtless among the
sons and daughters of God who shouted for joy because of the opportunity to come to
this challenging yet necessary mortal existence. We knew that our purpose was to gain
a physical body, to overcome trials, and to prove that we would keep the
commandments of God. Our Father knew that because of the nature of mortality, we
would be tempted, would sin, and would fall short. So that we might have every chance
5

of success, He provided a Savior, who would suffer and die for us. Not only would He
atone for our sins, but as a part of that Atonement, He would also overcome the physical
death to which we would be subject because of the Fall of Adam.
Thus, more than 2,000 years ago, Christ, our Savior, was born to mortal life in a stable in
Bethlehem. The long-foretold Messiah had come.
There was very little written of the boyhood of Jesus. I love the passage from Luke: And
Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. And from the
book of Acts, there is a short phrase concerning the Savior which has a world of
meaning: [He] went about doing good.
6

He was baptized by John in the river Jordan. He called the Twelve Apostles. He blessed
the sick. He caused the lame to walk, the blind to see, the deaf to hear. He even raised
the dead to life. He taught, He testified, and He provided a perfect example for us to
follow.
And then the mortal mission of the Savior of the world drew to its close. A last supper
with His Apostles took place in an upper room. Ahead lay Gethsemane and Calvarys
cross.
No mere mortal can conceive the full import of what Christ did for us in Gethsemane. He
Himself later described the experience: [The] suffering caused myself, even God, the
greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both
body and spirit.
8

Following the agony of Gethsemane, now drained of strength, He was seized by rough,
crude hands and taken before Annas, Caiaphas, Pilate, and Herod. He was accused and
cursed. Vicious blows further weakened His pain-racked body. Blood ran down His face as
a cruel crown fashioned of sharp thorns was forced onto His head, piercing His brow. And
then once again He was taken to Pilate, who gave in to the cries of the angry mob:
Crucify him, crucify him.
9

He was scourged with a whip into whose multiple leather strands sharp metals and
bones were woven. Rising from the cruelty of the scourge, with stumbling steps He
carried His own cross until He could go no farther and another shouldered the burden for
Him.
Finally, on a hill called Calvary, while helpless followers looked on, His wounded body was
nailed to a cross. Mercilessly He was mocked and cursed and derided. And yet He cried
out, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.
10

The agonizing hours passed as His life ebbed. From His parched lips came the words,
Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the
ghost.
11

As the serenity and solace of a merciful death freed Him from the sorrows of mortality,
He returned to the presence of His Father.

At the last moment, the Master could have turned back. But He did not. He passed
beneath all things that He might save all things. His lifeless body was hurriedly but
gently placed in a borrowed tomb.
No words in Christendom mean more to me than those spoken by the angel to the
weeping Mary Magdalene and the other Mary when, on the first day of the week, they
approached the tomb to care for the body of their Lord. Spoke the angel:
Why seek ye the living among the dead?
He is not here, but is risen.

12

Our Savior lived again. The most glorious, comforting, and reassuring of all events of
human history had taken placethe victory over death. The pain and agony of
Gethsemane and Calvary had been wiped away. The salvation of mankind had been
secured. The Fall of Adam had been reclaimed.
The empty tomb that first Easter morning was the answer to Jobs question, If a man
die, shall he live again? To all within the sound of my voice, I declare, If a man die, he
shall live again. We know, for we have the light of revealed truth.
For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

13

I have readand I believethe testimonies of those who experienced the grief of

Christs Crucifixion and the joy of His Resurrection. I have readand I believethe
testimonies of those in the New World who were visited by the same risen Lord.
I believe the testimony of one who, in this dispensation, spoke with the Father and the
Son in a grove now called sacred and who gave his life, sealing that testimony with his
blood. Declared he:
And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the
testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record
that he is the Only Begotten of the Father.
14

The darkness of death can always be dispelled by the light of revealed truth. I am the
resurrection, and the life, spoke the Master. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give
unto you.
15

16

Over the years I have heard and read testimonies too numerous to count, shared with
me by individuals who testify of the reality of the Resurrection and who have received, in
their hours of greatest need, the peace and comfort promised by the Savior.
I will mention just part of one such account. Two weeks ago I received a touching letter
from a father of seven who wrote about his family and, in particular, his son Jason, who
had become ill when 11 years of age. Over the next few years, Jasons illness recurred
several times. This father told of Jasons positive attitude and sunny disposition, despite

his health challenges. Jason received the Aaronic Priesthood at age 12 and always
willingly magnified his responsibilities with excellence, whether he felt well or not. He
received his Eagle Scout Award when he was 14 years old.
Last summer, not long after Jasons 15th birthday, he was once again admitted to the
hospital. On one of his visits to see Jason, his father found him with his eyes closed. Not
knowing whether Jason was asleep or awake, he began talking softly to him. Jason, he
said, I know you have been through a lot in your short life and that your current
condition is difficult. Even though you have a giant battle ahead, I dont ever want you to
lose your faith in Jesus Christ. He said he was startled as Jason immediately opened his
eyes and said, Never! in a clear, resolute voice. Jason then closed his eyes and said no
more.
His father wrote: In this simple declaration, Jason expressed one of the most powerful,
pure testimonies of Jesus Christ that I have ever heard. As his declaration of Never!
became imprinted on my soul that day, my heart filled with joy that my Heavenly Father
had blessed me to be the father of such a tremendous and noble boy. [It] was the last
time I heard him declare his testimony of Christ.
Although his family was expecting this to be just another routine hospitalization, Jason
passed away less than two weeks later. An older brother and sister were serving missions
at the time. Another brother, Kyle, had just received his mission call. In fact, the call had
come earlier than expected, and on August 5, just a week before Jasons passing, the
family gathered in his hospital room so that Kyles mission call could be opened there
and shared with the entire family.
In his letter to me, this father included a photograph of Jason in his hospital bed, with his
big brother Kyle standing beside the bed, holding his mission call. This caption was
written beneath the photograph: Called to serve their missions togetheron both sides
of the veil.
Jasons brother and sister already serving missions sent beautiful, comforting letters
home to be shared at Jasons funeral. His sister, serving in the Argentina Buenos Aires
West Mission, as part of her letter, wrote: I know that Jesus Christ lives, and because He
lives, all of us, including our beloved Jason, will live again too. We can take comfort in
the sure knowledge we have that we have been sealed together as an eternal family.
If we do our very best to obey and do better in this life, we will see [him again]. She
continued: [A] scripture that I have long loved now takes on new significance and
importance at this time. [From] Revelation chapter 21, verse 4: And God shall wipe
away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor
crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
My beloved brothers and sisters, in our hour of deepest sorrow, we can receive profound
peace from the words of the angel that first Easter morning: He is not here: for he is
risen.
17

He is risen! He is risen!
Tell it out with joyful voice.
He has burst his three days prison;
Let the whole wide earth rejoice.
Death is conquered; man is free.

Christ has won the victory!

18

As one of His special witnesses on earth today, this glorious Easter Sunday, I declare that
this is true, in His sacred nameeven the name of Jesus Christ, our Savioramen.

April 2010 General Conference

A Word at Closing
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
The lighthouse of the Lord sends forth signals readily recognized and never
failing.
This has been a wonderful closing session. Ive seldom heard such fine sermons taught in
so few words as weve experienced today. Were all here because we love the Lord. We
want to serve Him. Our Heavenly Father is mindful of us. Of that I testify. I acknowledge
His hand in all things.
One brief scripture:
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

That has been the story of my life.

My dear brothers and sisters, we come now to the conclusion of a most uplifting and
inspiring conference. After listening to the counsel and testimonies of those who have
spoken to us, I believe we have been richly blessed and are all more determined to live
the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It has been good for us to be here. We
express our gratitude to each one who has spoken to us, as well as to those who have
offered prayers.
The music has been magnificent. I am reminded of the scripture found in the Doctrine
and Covenants: For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the
righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their
heads.
2

Remember that the messages we have heard during this conference will be printed in
the May issues of the Ensign and Liahona magazines. I urge you to study the messages,
to ponder their teachings, and then to apply them in your life.
I know you join with me in expressing gratitude to those brethren and sisters who have
been released during this conference. They have served well and have made significant

contributions to the work of the Lord. Their dedication has been complete. We thank
them from the bottom of our hearts.
Now, we have also sustained, by uplifted hands, brethren and sisters who have been
called to new positions during this conference. We want them to know that we look
forward to working with them in the cause of the Master.
My brothers and sisters, today, as we look at the world around us, we are faced with
problems which are serious and of great concern to us. The world seems to have slipped
from the moorings of safety and drifted from the harbor of peace.
Permissiveness, immorality, pornography, dishonesty, and a host of other ills cause
many to be tossed about on a sea of sin and crushed on the jagged reefs of lost
opportunities, forfeited blessings, and shattered dreams.
My counsel for all of us is to look to the lighthouse of the Lord. There is no fog so dense,
no night so dark, no gale so strong, no mariner so lost but what its beacon light can
rescue. It beckons through the storms of life. The lighthouse of the Lord sends forth
signals readily recognized and never failing.
I love the words found in Psalms: The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my
deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; I will call upon the Lord so [I
shall] be saved from mine enemies.
3

The Lord loves us, my brothers and sisters, and will bless us as we call upon Him.
How grateful we are for the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and for all the good it brings
into our lives. The Lord has poured out His blessings upon us as a people. I bear my
testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He guides and
directs His Church here upon the earth.
Now, as we come to the final moments of this conference, my heart is full and my
feelings tender. I express my love and gratitude to you. Thank you for your prayers in my
behalf and in behalf of all of the General Authorities of the Church. The Lord hears your
prayers and blesses us and directs us in the affairs of His kingdom here upon the earth.
For this we are deeply grateful.
As we leave this conference, I invoke the blessings of heaven upon each of you. As you
return to your homes around the world, I pray our Heavenly Father will bless you and
your families. May the messages and spirit of this conference find expression in all that
you doin your homes, in your work, in your meetings, and in all your comings and
goings.
I love you. I pray for you. May God bless you. May His promised peace be with you now
and always, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2010 General Conference

Charity Never Faileth

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we have the
pure love of Christ for our fellow travelers in this journey through life.
Our souls have rejoiced tonight and reached toward heaven. We have been blessed with
beautiful music and inspired messages. The Spirit of the Lord is here. I pray for His
inspiration to be with me now as I share with you some of my thoughts and feelings.
I begin with a short anecdote which illustrates a point I should like to make.
A young couple, Lisa and John, moved into a new neighborhood. One morning while they
were eating breakfast, Lisa looked out the window and watched her next-door neighbor
hanging out her wash.
That laundrys not clean! Lisa exclaimed. Our neighbor doesnt know how to get
clothes clean!
John looked on but remained silent.
Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry, Lisa would make the same
comments.
A few weeks later Lisa was surprised to glance out her window and see a nice, clean
wash hanging in her neighbors yard. She said to her husband, Look, Johnshes finally
learned how to wash correctly! I wonder how she did it.
John replied, Well, dear, I have the answer for you. Youll be interested to know that I got
up early this morning and washed our windows!
Tonight Id like to share with you a few thoughts concerning how we view each other. Are
we looking through a window which needs cleaning? Are we making judgments when we
dont have all the facts? What do we see when we look at others? What judgments do we
make about them?
Said the Savior, Judge not. He continued, Why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy
brothers eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or, to paraphrase,
why beholdest thou what you think is dirty laundry at your neighbors house but
considerest not the soiled window in your own house?
1

None of us is perfect. I know of no one who would profess to be so. And yet for some
reason, despite our own imperfections, we have a tendency to point out those of others.
We make judgments concerning their actions or inactions.
There is really no way we can know the heart, the intentions, or the circumstances of
someone who might say or do something we find reason to criticize. Thus the
commandment: Judge not.

Forty-seven years ago this general conference, I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles. At the time, I had been serving on one of the general priesthood committees of
the Church, and so before my name was presented, I sat with my fellow members of that
priesthood committee, as was expected of me. My wife, however, had no idea where to
go and no one with whom she could sit and, in fact, was unable to find a seat anywhere
in the Tabernacle. A dear friend of ours, who was a member of one of the general
auxiliary boards and who was sitting in the area designated for the board members,
asked Sister Monson to sit with her. This woman knew nothing of my callwhich would
be announced shortlybut she spotted Sister Monson, recognized her consternation, and
graciously offered her a seat. My dear wife was relieved and grateful for this kind
gesture. Sitting down, however, she heard loud whispering behind her as one of the
board members expressed her annoyance to those around her that one of her fellow
board members would have the audacity to invite an outsider to sit in this area
reserved only for them. There was no excuse for her unkind behavior, regardless of who
might have been invited to sit there. However, I can only imagine how that woman felt
when she learned that the intruder was the wife of the newest Apostle.
Not only are we inclined to judge the actions and words of others, but many of us judge
appearances: clothing, hairstyles, size. The list could go on and on.
A classic account of judging by appearance was printed in a national magazine many
years ago. It is a true accountone which you may have heard but which bears
repeating.
A woman by the name of Mary Bartels had a home directly across the street from the
entrance to a hospital clinic. Her family lived on the main floor and rented the upstairs
rooms to outpatients at the clinic.
One evening a truly awful-looking old man came to the door asking if there was room for
him to stay the night. He was stooped and shriveled, and his face was lopsided from
swellingred and raw. He said hed been hunting for a room since noon but with no
success. I guess its my face, he said. I know it looks terrible, but my doctor says it
could possibly improve after more treatments. He indicated hed be happy to sleep in
the rocking chair on the porch. As she talked with him, Mary realized this little old man
had an oversized heart crowded into that tiny body. Although her rooms were filled, she
told him to wait in the chair and shed find him a place to sleep.
At bedtime Marys husband set up a camp cot for the man. When she checked in the
morning, the bed linens were neatly folded and he was out on the porch. He refused
breakfast, but just before he left for his bus, he asked if he could return the next time he
had a treatment. I wont put you out a bit, he promised. I can sleep fine in a chair.
Mary assured him he was welcome to come again.
In the several years he went for treatments and stayed in Marys home, the old man,
who was a fisherman by trade, always had gifts of seafood or vegetables from his
garden. Other times he sent packages in the mail.
When Mary received these thoughtful gifts, she often thought of a comment her nextdoor neighbor made after the disfigured, stooped old man had left Marys home that first
morning. Did you keep that awful-looking man last night? I turned him away. You can
lose customers by putting up such people.

Mary knew that maybe they had lost customers once or twice, but she thought, Oh, if
only they could have known him, perhaps their illnesses would have been easier to
bear.
After the man passed away, Mary was visiting with a friend who had a greenhouse. As
she looked at her friends flowers, she noticed a beautiful golden chrysanthemum but
was puzzled that it was growing in a dented, old, rusty bucket. Her friend explained, I
ran short of pots, and knowing how beautiful this one would be, I thought it wouldnt
mind starting in this old pail. Its just for a little while, until I can put it out in the garden.
Mary smiled as she imagined just such a scene in heaven. Heres an especially beautiful
one, God might have said when He came to the soul of the little old man. He wont
mind starting in this small, misshapen body. But that was long ago, and in Gods garden
how tall this lovely soul must stand!
3

Appearances can be so deceiving, such a poor measure of a person. Admonished the

Savior, Judge not according to the appearance.
4

A member of a womens organization once complained when a certain woman was

selected to represent the organization. She had never met the woman, but she had seen
a photograph of her and didnt like what she saw, considering her to be overweight. She
commented, Of the thousands of women in this organization, surely a better
representative could have been chosen.
True, the woman who was chosen was not model slim. But those who knew her and
knew her qualities saw in her far more than was reflected in the photograph. The
photograph did show that she had a friendly smile and a look of confidence. What the
photograph didnt show was that she was a loyal and compassionate friend, a woman of
intelligence who loved the Lord and who loved and served His children. It didnt show
that she volunteered in the community and was a considerate and concerned neighbor.
In short, the photograph did not reflect who she really was.
I ask: if attitudes, deeds, and spiritual inclinations were reflected in physical features,
would the countenance of the woman who complained be as lovely as that of the woman
she criticized?
My dear sisters, each of you is unique. You are different from each other in many ways.
There are those of you who are married. Some of you stay at home with your children,
while others of you work outside your homes. Some of you are empty nesters. There are
those of you who are married but do not have children. There are those who are
divorced, those who are widowed. Many of you are single women. Some of you have
college degrees; some of you do not. There are those who can afford the latest fashions
and those who are lucky to have one appropriate Sunday outfit. Such differences are
almost endless. Do these differences tempt us to judge one another?
Mother Teresa, a Catholic nun who worked among the poor in India most of her life,
spoke this profound truth: If you judge people, you have no time to love them. The
Savior has admonished, This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have
loved you. I ask: can we love one another, as the Savior has commanded, if we judge
each other? And I answerwith Mother Teresa: no, we cannot.
5

The Apostle James taught, If any among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his
tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this mans [or womans] religion is vain.
7

I have always loved your Relief Society motto: Charity never faileth. What is charity?
The prophet Mormon teaches us that charity is the pure love of Christ. In his farewell
message to the Lamanites, Moroni declared, Except ye have charity ye can in nowise be
saved in the kingdom of God.
8

10

I consider charityor the pure love of Christto be the opposite of criticism and
judging. In speaking of charity, I do not at this moment have in mind the relief of the
suffering through the giving of our substance. That, of course, is necessary and proper.
Tonight, however, I have in mind the charity that manifests itself when we are tolerant of
others and lenient toward their actions, the kind of charity that forgives, the kind of
charity that is patient.
I have in mind the charity that impels us to be sympathetic, compassionate, and
merciful, not only in times of sickness and affliction and distress but also in times of
weakness or error on the part of others.
There is a serious need for the charity that gives attention to those who are unnoticed,
hope to those who are discouraged, aid to those who are afflicted. True charity is love in
action. The need for charity is everywhere.
Needed is the charity which refuses to find satisfaction in hearing or in repeating the
reports of misfortunes that come to others, unless by so doing, the unfortunate one may
be benefited. The American educator and politician Horace Mann once said, To pity
distress is but human; to relieve it is godlike.
11

Charity is having patience with someone who has let us down. It is resisting the impulse
to become offended easily. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is accepting
people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical appearances to attributes that will
not dim through time. It is resisting the impulse to categorize others.
Charity, that pure love of Christ, is manifest when a group of young women from a
singles ward travels hundreds of miles to attend the funeral services for the mother of
one of their Relief Society sisters. Charity is shown when devoted visiting teachers return
month after month, year after year to the same uninterested, somewhat critical sister. It
is evident when an elderly widow is remembered and taken to ward functions and to
Relief Society activities. It is felt when the sister sitting alone in Relief Society receives
the invitation, Comesit by us.
In a hundred small ways, all of you wear the mantle of charity. Life is perfect for none of
us. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we have the pure love
of Christ for our fellow travelers in this journey through life. May we recognize that each
one is doing her best to deal with the challenges which come her way, and may we strive
to do our best to help out.
Charity has been defined as the highest, noblest, strongest kind of love, the pure
love of Christ ; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with
[her].
12

13

Charity never faileth. May this long-enduring Relief Society motto, this timeless truth,
guide you in everything you do. May it permeate your very souls and find expression in
all your thoughts and actions.
I express my love to you, my sisters, and pray that heavens blessings may ever be
yours. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2010 General Conference

As We Meet Together Again

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Missionary service is a priesthood dutyan obligation the Lord expects of us
who have been given so very much.
My beloved brothers and sisters, we welcome you to general conference, which is being
heard and seen by various means throughout the world. We express thanks to all who
have to do with the complicated logistics of this great undertaking.
Since April when we last met, the work of the Church has moved forward unhindered. It
has been my privilege to dedicate four new temples. Accompanied by my counselors and
other General Authorities, I have traveled to Gila Valley, Arizona; to Vancouver, British
Columbia; to Cebu City in the Philippines; and to Kyiv, Ukraine. The temple in each of
these locations is magnificently beautiful. Each one is blessing the lives of our members
and is an influence for good upon those not of our faith.
The evening prior to each temple dedication, we were privileged to view a cultural
celebration, participated in by our young people and some of our not-so-young people.
These events were generally held in large stadiums, although in Kyiv we met in a
beautiful palace. The dancing, singing, musical performances, and displays were
excellent. I express my commendation and love to all who were involved.
Each temple dedication was a spiritual feast. We felt the Spirit of the Lord at all of them.
Next month we will rededicate the Laie Hawaii Temple, one of our oldest temples, which
has undergone extensive renovations during many months. We look forward to that
sacred occasion.
We continue to build temples. This morning I am pleased to announce five additional
temples for which sites are being acquired and which, in coming months and years, will
be built in the following locations: Lisbon, Portugal; Indianapolis, Indiana; Urdaneta,
Philippines; Hartford, Connecticut; and Tijuana, Mexico.
The ordinances performed in our temples are vital to our salvation and to the salvation of
our deceased loved ones. May we continue faithful in attending the temples, which are
being built closer and closer to our members.

Now, before we hear from our speakers this morning, may I mention a matter close to
my heart and which deserves our serious attention. I speak of missionary work.
First, to young men of the Aaronic Priesthood and to you young men who are becoming
elders: I repeat what prophets have long taughtthat every worthy, able young man
should prepare to serve a mission. Missionary service is a priesthood dutyan obligation
the Lord expects of us who have been given so very much. Young men, I admonish you
to prepare for service as a missionary. Keep yourselves clean and pure and worthy to
represent the Lord. Maintain your health and strength. Study the scriptures. Where such
is available, participate in seminary or institute. Familiarize yourself with the missionary
handbook Preach My Gospel.
A word to you young sisters: while you do not have the same priesthood responsibility as
do the young men to serve as full-time missionaries, you also make a valuable
contribution as missionaries, and we welcome your service.
And now to you mature brothers and sisters: we need many, many more senior couples.
To the faithful couples now serving or who have served in the past, we thank you for your
faith and devotion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. You serve willingly and well and
accomplish great good.
To those of you who are not yet to the season of life when you might serve a couples
mission, I urge you to prepare now for the day when you and your spouse might do so.
As your circumstances allow, as you are eligible for retirement, and as your health
permits, make yourselves available to leave home and give full-time missionary service.
There are few times in your lives when you will enjoy the sweet spirit and satisfaction
that come from giving full-time service together in the work of the Master.
Now, my brothers and sisters, may you be attuned to the Spirit of the Lord as we hear
from His servants during the next two days. That this may be the blessing of each, I pray
humbly in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2010 General Conference

The Three Rs of Choice

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Each of us has come to this earth with all the tools necessary to make
correct choices.
My beloved brethren of the priesthood, my earnest prayer tonight is that I might enjoy
the help of our Heavenly Father in giving utterance to those things which I feel impressed
to share with you.

I have been thinking recently about choices and their consequences. Scarcely an hour of
the day goes by but what we are called upon to make choices of one sort or another.
Some are trivial, some more far-reaching. Some will make no difference in the eternal
scheme of things, and others will make all the difference.
As Ive contemplated the various aspects of choice, Ive put them into three categories:
first, the right of choice; second, the responsibility of choice; and third, the results of
choice. I call these the three Rs of choice.
I mention first the right of choice. I am so grateful to a loving Heavenly Father for His gift
of agency, or the right to choose. President David O. McKay, ninth President of the
Church, said, Next to the bestowal of life itself, the right to direct that life is Gods
greatest gift to man.
1

We know that we had our agency before this world was and that Lucifer attempted to
take it from us. He had no confidence in the principle of agency or in us and argued for
imposed salvation. He insisted that with his plan none would be lost, but he seemed not
to recognizeor perhaps not to carethat in addition, none would be any wiser, any
stronger, any more compassionate, or any more grateful if his plan were followed.
We who chose the Saviors plan knew that we would be embarking on a precarious,
difficult journey, for we walk the ways of the world and sin and stumble, cutting us off
from our Father. But the Firstborn in the Spirit offered Himself as a sacrifice to atone for
the sins of all. Through unspeakable suffering He became the great Redeemer, the Savior
of all mankind, thus making possible our successful return to our Father.
The prophet Lehi tells us: Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things
are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and
eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death,
according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be
miserable like unto himself.
2

Brethren, within the confines of whatever circumstances we find ourselves, we will

always have the right to choose.
Next, with the right of choice comes the responsibility to choose. We cannot be neutral;
there is no middle ground. The Lord knows this; Lucifer knows this. As long as we live
upon this earth, Lucifer and his hosts will never abandon the hope of claiming our souls.
Our Heavenly Father did not launch us on our eternal journey without providing the
means whereby we could receive from Him God-given guidance to assist in our safe
return at the end of mortal life. I speak of prayer. I speak too of the whisperings from that
still, small voice within each of us, and I do not overlook the holy scriptures, written by
mariners who successfully sailed the seas we too must cross.
Each of us has come to this earth with all the tools necessary to make correct choices.
The prophet Mormon tells us, The Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may
know good from evil.
3

We are surroundedeven at times bombardedby the messages of the adversary.

Listen to some of them; they are no doubt familiar to you: Just this once wont matter.

Dont worry; no one will know. You can stop smoking or drinking or taking drugs any
time you want. Everybodys doing it, so it cant be that bad. The lies are endless.
Although in our journey we will encounter forks and turnings in the road, we simply
cannot afford the luxury of a detour from which we may never return. Lucifer, that clever
pied piper, plays his lilting melody and attracts the unsuspecting away from the safety of
their chosen pathway, away from the counsel of loving parents, away from the security
of Gods teachings. He seeks not just the so-called refuse of humanity; he seeks all of us,
including the very elect of God. King David listened, wavered, and then followed and fell.
So did Cain in an earlier era and Judas Iscariot in a later one. Lucifers methods are
cunning; his victims, numerous.
We read of him in 2 Nephi: Others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal
security. Others he flattereth away, and telleth them there is no hell until he grasps
them with his awful chains. And thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them
away carefully down to hell.
4

When faced with significant choices, how do we decide? Do we succumb to the promise
of momentary pleasure? To our urges and passions? To the pressure of our peers?
Let us not find ourselves as indecisive as is Alice in Lewis Carrolls classic Alices
Adventures in Wonderland. You will remember that she comes to a crossroads with two
paths before her, each stretching onward but in opposite directions. She is confronted by
the Cheshire cat, of whom Alice asks, Which path shall I follow?
The cat answers, That depends where you want to go. If you do not know where you
want to go, it doesnt matter which path you take.
7

Unlike Alice, we all know where we want to go, and it does matter which way we go, for
by choosing our path, we choose our destination.
Decisions are constantly before us. To make them wisely, courage is neededthe
courage to say no, the courage to say yes. Decisions do determine destiny.
I plead with you to make a determination right here, right now, not to deviate from the
path which will lead to our goal: eternal life with our Father in Heaven. Along that straight
and true path there are other goals: missionary service, temple marriage, Church
activity, scripture study, prayer, temple work. There are countless worthy goals to reach
as we travel through life. Needed is our commitment to reach them.
Finally, brethren, I speak of the results of choice. All of our choices have consequences,
some of which have little or nothing to do with our eternal salvation and others of which
have everything to do with it.
Whether you wear a green T-shirt or a blue one makes no difference in the long run.
However, whether you decide to push a key on your computer which will take you to
pornography can make all the difference in your life. You will have just taken a step off
the straight, safe path. If a friend pressures you to drink alcohol or to try drugs and you
succumb to the pressure, you are taking a detour from which you may not return.
Brethren, whether we are 12-year-old deacons or mature high priests, we are
susceptible. May we keep our eyes, our hearts, and our determination focused on that

goal which is eternal and worth any price we will have to pay, regardless of the sacrifice
we must make to reach it.
No temptation, no pressure, no enticing can overcome us unless we allow such. If we
make the wrong choice, we have no one to blame but ourselves. President Brigham
Young once expressed this truth by relating it to himself. Said he: If Brother Brigham
shall take a wrong track, and be shut out of the Kingdom of heaven, no person will be to
blame but Brother Brigham. I am the only being in heaven, earth, or hell, that can be
blamed. He continued: This will equally apply to every Latter-day Saint. Salvation is an
individual operation.
8

The Apostle Paul has assured us, There hath no temptation taken you but such as is
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye
are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to
bear it.
9

We have all made incorrect choices. If we have not already corrected such choices, I
assure you that there is a way to do so. The process is called repentance. I plead with
you to correct your mistakes. Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift.
Although the path is not easy, the promise is real: Though your sins be as scarlet, they
shall be as white as snow. And I, the Lord, remember them no more. Dont put your
eternal life at risk. If you have sinned, the sooner you begin to make your way back, the
sooner you will find the sweet peace and joy that come with the miracle of forgiveness.
10

11

Brethren, you are of a noble birthright. Eternal life in the kingdom of our Father is your
goal. Such a goal is not achieved in one glorious attempt but rather is the result of a
lifetime of righteousness, an accumulation of wise choices, even a constancy of purpose.
As with anything really worthwhile, the reward of eternal life requires effort.
The scriptures are clear:
Ye shall observe to do as the Lord your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn
aside to the right hand or to the left.
Ye shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God hath commanded you.

12

In closing may I share with you an example of one who determined early in life what his
goals would be. I speak of Brother Clayton M. Christensen, a member of the Church who
is a professor of business administration in the business school at Harvard University.
When he was 16 years old, Brother Christensen decided, among other things, that he
would not play sports on Sunday. Years later, when he attended Oxford University in
England, he played center on the basketball team. That year they had an undefeated
season and went through to the British equivalent of what in the United States would be
the NCAA basketball tournament.
They won their games fairly easily in the tournament, making it to the final four. It was
then that Brother Christensen looked at the schedule and, to his absolute horror, saw
that the final basketball game was scheduled to be played on a Sunday. He and the team
had worked so hard to get where they were, and he was the starting center. He went to

his coach with his dilemma. His coach was unsympathetic and told Brother Christensen
he expected him to play in the game.
Prior to the final game, however, there was a semifinal game. Unfortunately, the backup
center dislocated his shoulder, which increased the pressure on Brother Christensen to
play in the final game. He went to his hotel room. He knelt down. He asked his Heavenly
Father if it would be all right, just this once, if he played that game on Sunday. He said
that before he had finished praying, he received the answer: Clayton, what are you even
asking me for? You know the answer.
He went to his coach, telling him how sorry he was that he wouldnt be playing in the
final game. Then he went to the Sunday meetings in the local ward while his team
played without him. He prayed mightily for their success. They did win.
That fateful, difficult decision was made more than 30 years ago. Brother Christensen
has said that as time has passed, he considers it one of the most important decisions he
ever made. It would have been very easy to have said, You know, in general, keeping
the Sabbath day holy is the right commandment, but in my particular extenuating
circumstance, its okay, just this once, if I dont do it. However, he says his entire life
has turned out to be an unending stream of extenuating circumstances, and had he
crossed the line just that once, then the next time something came up that was so
demanding and critical, it would have been so much easier to cross the line again. The
lesson he learned is that it is easier to keep the commandments 100 percent of the time
than it is 98 percent of the time.
13

My beloved brethren, may we be filled with gratitude for the right of choice, accept the
responsibility of choice, and ever be conscious of the results of choice. As bearers of the
priesthood, all of us united as one can qualify for the guiding influence of our Heavenly
Father as we choose carefully and correctly. We are engaged in the work of the Lord Jesus
Christ. We, like those of olden times, have answered His call. We are on His errand. We
shall succeed in the solemn charge: Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord.
That this may be so is my solemn and humble prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, our
Master, amen.
14

October 2010 General Conference

The Divine Gift of Gratitude

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
A grateful heart comes through expressing gratitude to our Heavenly
Father for His blessings and to those around us for all that they bring into
our lives.

This has been a marvelous session. When I was appointed President of the Church, I said,
Ill take one assignment for myself. Ill be the adviser for the Tabernacle Choir. Im very
proud of my choir!
My mother once said of me, Tommy, Im very proud of all that youve done. But I have
one comment to make to you. You should have stayed with the piano.
So I went to the piano and played a number for her: Here we go, [here we go] to a
birthday party. Then I gave her a kiss on the forehead, and she embraced me.
1

I think of her. I think of my father. I think of all those General Authorities whove
influenced me, and others, including the widows whom I visited85 of themwith a
chicken for the oven, sometimes a little money for their pocket.
I visited one late one night. It was midnight, and I went to the nursing home, and the
receptionist said, Im sure shes asleep, but she told me to be sure to awaken her, for
she said, I know hell come.
I held her hand; she called my name. She was wide awake. She pressed my hand to her
lips and said, I knew youd come. How could I not have come?
Beautiful music touches me that way.
My beloved brothers and sisters, we have heard inspired messages of truth, of hope, and
of love. Our thoughts have turned to Him who atoned for our sins, who showed us the
way to live and how to pray, and who demonstrated by His own actions the blessings of
serviceeven our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In the book of Luke, chapter 17, we read of Him:
And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of
Samaria and Galilee.
And as he entered into a certain village, there [he met] ten men that were lepers, which
stood afar off:
And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it
came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice
glorified God,
And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.
And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

Through divine intervention those who were lepers were spared from a cruel, lingering
death and given a new lease on life. The expressed gratitude by one merited the
Masters blessing; the ingratitude shown by the nine, His disappointment.
My brothers and sisters, do we remember to give thanks for the blessings we receive?
Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the
doors of heaven and helps us feel Gods love.
My beloved friend President Gordon B. Hinckley said, When you walk with gratitude, you
do not walk with arrogance and conceit and egotism, you walk with a spirit of
thanksgiving that is becoming to you and will bless your lives.
3

In the book of Matthew in the Bible, we have another account of gratitude, this time as
an expression from the Savior. As He traveled in the wilderness for three days, more than
4,000 people followed and traveled with Him. He took compassion on them, for they may
not have eaten during the entire three days. His disciples, however, questioned,
Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a
multitude? Like many of us, the disciples saw only what was lacking.
And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And [the disciples] said, Seven,
and a few little fishes.
And [Jesus] commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground.
And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and
gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
Notice that the Savior gave thanks for what they hadand a miracle followed: And they
did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven
baskets full.
4

We have all experienced times when our focus is on what we lack rather than on our
blessings. Said the Greek philosopher Epictetus, He is a wise man who does not grieve
for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.
5

Gratitude is a divine principle. The Lord declared through a revelation given to the
Prophet Joseph Smith:
Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.
And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those
who confess not his hand in all things.
6

In the Book of Mormon we are told to live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies
and blessings which [God] doth bestow upon you.
7

Regardless of our circumstances, each of us has much for which to be grateful if we will
but pause and contemplate our blessings.
This is a wonderful time to be on earth. While there is much that is wrong in the world
today, there are many things that are right and good. There are marriages that make it,

parents who love their children and sacrifice for them, friends who care about us and
help us, teachers who teach. Our lives are blessed in countless ways.
We can lift ourselves and others as well when we refuse to remain in the realm of
negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude
be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest
of virtues. Someone has said that gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the
parent of all others.
8

How can we cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude? President Joseph F.
Smith, sixth President of the Church, provided an answer. Said he: The grateful man
sees so much in the world to be thankful for, and with him the good outweighs the evil.
Love overpowers jealousy, and light drives darkness out of his life. He continued: Pride
destroys our gratitude and sets up selfishness in its place. How much happier we are in
the presence of a grateful and loving soul, and how careful we should be to cultivate,
through the medium of a prayerful life, a thankful attitude toward God and man!
9

President Smith is telling us that a prayerful life is the key to possessing gratitude.
Do material possessions make us happy and grateful? Perhaps momentarily. However,
those things which provide deep and lasting happiness and gratitude are the things
which money cannot buy: our families, the gospel, good friends, our health, our abilities,
the love we receive from those around us. Unfortunately, these are some of the things
we allow ourselves to take for granted.
The English author Aldous Huxley wrote, Most human beings have an almost infinite
capacity for taking things for granted.
10

We often take for granted the very people who most deserve our gratitude. Let us not
wait until it is too late for us to express that gratitude. Speaking of loved ones he had
lost, one man declared his regret this way: I remember those happy days, and often
wish I could speak into the ears of the dead the gratitude which was due them in life,
and so ill returned.
11

The loss of loved ones almost inevitably brings some regrets to our hearts. Lets
minimize such feelings as much as humanly possible by frequently expressing our love
and gratitude to them. We never know how soon it will be too late.
A grateful heart, then, comes through expressing gratitude to our Heavenly Father for His
blessings and to those around us for all that they bring into our lives. This requires
conscious effortat least until we have truly learned and cultivated an attitude of
gratitude. Often we feel grateful and intend to express our thanks but forget to do so or
just dont get around to it. Someone has said that feeling gratitude and not expressing it
is like wrapping a present and not giving it.
12

When we encounter challenges and problems in our lives, it is often difficult for us to
focus on our blessings. However, if we reach deep enough and look hard enough, we will
be able to feel and recognize just how much we have been given.
I share with you an account of one family which was able to find blessings in the midst of
serious challenges. This is an account I read many years ago and have kept because of

the message it conveys. It was written by Gordon Green and appeared in an American
magazine over 50 years ago.
Gordon tells how he grew up on a farm in Canada, where he and his siblings had to hurry
home from school while the other children played ball and went swimming. Their father,
however, had the capacity to help them understand that their work amounted to
something. This was especially true after harvesttime when the family celebrated
Thanksgiving, for on that day their father gave them a great gift. He took an inventory of
everything they had.
On Thanksgiving morning he would take them to the cellar with its barrels of apples, bins
of beets, carrots packed in sand, and mountains of sacked potatoes as well as peas, corn,
string beans, jellies, strawberries, and other preserves which filled their shelves. He had
the children count everything carefully. Then they went out to the barn and figured how
many tons of hay there were and how many bushels of grain in the granary. They
counted the cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and geese. Their father said he wanted to see
how they stood, but they knew he really wanted them to realize on that feast day how
richly God had blessed them and had smiled upon all their hours of work. Finally, when
they sat down to the feast their mother had prepared, the blessings were something they
felt.
Gordon indicated, however, that the Thanksgiving he remembered most thankfully was
the year they seemed to have nothing for which to be grateful.
The year started off well: they had leftover hay, lots of seed, four litters of pigs, and their
father had a little money set aside so that someday he could afford to buy a hay loader
a wonderful machine most farmers just dreamed of owning. It was also the year that
electricity came to their townalthough not to them because they couldnt afford it.
One night when Gordons mother was doing her big wash, his father stepped in and took
his turn over the washboard and asked his wife to rest and do her knitting. He said, You
spend more time doing the wash than sleeping. Do you think we should break down and
get electricity? Although elated at the prospect, she shed a tear or two as she thought
of the hay loader that wouldnt be bought.
So the electrical line went up their lane that year. Although it was nothing fancy, they
acquired a washing machine that worked all day by itself and brilliant lightbulbs that
dangled from each ceiling. There were no more lamps to fill with oil, no more wicks to
cut, no more sooty chimneys to wash. The lamps went quietly off to the attic.
The coming of electricity to their farm was almost the last good thing that happened to
them that year. Just as their crops were starting to come through the ground, the rains
started. When the water finally receded, there wasnt a plant left anywhere. They planted
again, but more rains beat the crops into the earth. Their potatoes rotted in the mud.
They sold a couple of cows and all the pigs and other livestock they had intended to
keep, getting very low prices for them because everybody else had to do the same thing.
All they harvested that year was a patch of turnips which had somehow weathered the
storms.
Then it was Thanksgiving again. Their mother said, Maybe wed better forget it this
year. We havent even got a goose left.

On Thanksgiving morning, however, Gordons father showed up with a jackrabbit and

asked his wife to cook it. Grudgingly she started the job, indicating it would take a long
time to cook that tough old thing. When it was finally on the table with some of the
turnips that had survived, the children refused to eat. Gordons mother cried, and then
his father did a strange thing. He went up to the attic, got an oil lamp, took it back to the
table, and lighted it. He told the children to turn out the electric lights. When there was
only the lamp again, they could hardly believe that it had been that dark before. They
wondered how they had ever seen anything without the bright lights made possible by
electricity.
The food was blessed, and everyone ate. When dinner was over, they all sat quietly.
Wrote Gordon:
In the humble dimness of the old lamp we were beginning to see clearly again.
It [was] a lovely meal. The jack rabbit tasted like turkey and the turnips were the
mildest we could recall.
[Our] home , for all its want, was so rich [to] us.

13

My brothers and sisters, to express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact

gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch
heaven.
As I close this morning, it is my prayer that in addition to all else for which we are
grateful, we may ever reflect our gratitude for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His
glorious gospel provides answers to lifes greatest questions: Where did we come from?
Why are we here? Where do our spirits go when we die? That gospel brings to those who
live in darkness the light of divine truth.
He taught us how to pray. He taught us how to live. He taught us how to die. His life is a
legacy of love. The sick He healed; the downtrodden He lifted; the sinner He saved.
Ultimately, He stood alone. Some Apostles doubted; one betrayed Him. The Roman
soldiers pierced His side. The angry mob took His life. There yet rings from Golgothas hill
His compassionate words: Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.
14

Who was this man of sorrows, acquainted with grief? Who is this King of glory,
this Lord of lords? He is our Master. He is our Savior. He is the Son of God. He is the
Author of Our Salvation. He beckons, Follow me. He instructs, Go, and do thou
likewise. He pleads, Keep my commandments.
15

16

17

18

19

Let us follow Him. Let us emulate His example. Let us obey His words. By so doing, we
give to Him the divine gift of gratitude.
My sincere, heartfelt prayer is that we may in our individual lives reflect that marvelous
virtue of gratitude. May it permeate our very souls, now and evermore. In the sacred
name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen.

October 2010 General Conference

Till We Meet Again

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Endure to the end we must, for our goal is eternal life in the presence of our
Father in Heaven.
My brothers and sisters, my heart is full as we bring to a close this wonderful general
conference of the Church. We have been spiritually fed as we have listened to the
counsel and testimonies of those who have participated in each session. I am certain I
speak for all members everywhere when I express deep appreciation for the truths we
have been taught. We could echo the words, found in the Book of Mormon, of those who
heard the sermon of the great King Benjamin and cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we
believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety
and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent.
1

I hope that we will take the time to read the conference talks, which will be reprinted in
the November issue of the Ensign and Liahona magazines, for they are deserving of our
careful study.
What a blessing it is that we have been able to meet here, in this magnificent
Conference Center, in peace and comfort and safety. We have had unprecedented
coverage of the conference, reaching across the continents and the oceans to people
everywhere. Though we are far removed from many of you, we feel of your spirit and
send our love and appreciation to you.
To our Brethren who have been released at this conference, may I express the heartfelt
gratitude of all of us for your many years of devoted service. Countless are those who
have been blessed by your contributions to the work of the Lord.
The Tabernacle Choir and other choirs which participated in the sessions have provided
truly heavenly music that has enhanced and beautified all else which has taken place. I
thank you for sharing with us your musical talents and abilities.
I love and appreciate my faithful counselors, President Henry B. Eyring and President
Dieter F. Uchtdorf. They are truly men of wisdom and understanding, and their service is
invaluable. I could not do all that I am called upon to do without their support and
assistance. I love and admire my Brethren of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and all
in the Quorums of the Seventy and in the Presiding Bishopric. They serve selflessly and
effectively. I similarly express my appreciation for the women and men who serve as
general auxiliary officers.
How blessed we are to have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It provides answers to
questions concerning where we came from, why we are here, and where we will go when
we pass from this life. It provides meaning and purpose and hope to our lives.

We live in a troubled world, a world of many challenges. We are here on this earth to deal
with our individual challenges to the best of our ability, to learn from them, and to
overcome them. Endure to the end we must, for our goal is eternal life in the presence of
our Father in Heaven. He loves us and wants nothing more than for us to succeed in this
goal. He will help us and bless us as we call upon Him in our prayers, as we study His
words, and as we obey His commandments. Therein is found safety; therein is found
peace.
May God bless you, my brothers and sisters. I thank you for your prayers in my behalf
and in behalf of all of the General Authorities. We are deeply grateful for you and for all
that you do to further the kingdom of God on earth.
May heavens blessings be with you. May your homes be filled with love and courtesy
and with the Spirit of the Lord. May you constantly nourish your testimonies of the
gospel, that they will be a protection to you against the buffetings of Satan.
Conference is now over. As we return to our homes, may we do so safely. May the spirit
we have felt here be and abide with us as we go about those things which occupy us
each day. May we show increased kindness toward one another; may we ever be found
doing the work of the Lord.
I love you; I pray for you. I bid you farewell till we meet again in six months time. In the
name of our Lord and Savior, even Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2011 General Conference

Its Conference Once Again

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel, for the love and care
you show to one another, and for the service you provide.
When this building was planned, we thought wed never fill it. Just look at it now.
My beloved brothers and sisters, how good it is to be together once again as we begin
the 181st Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The past six months seem to have passed rapidly as Ive been busy with many
responsibilities. One of the great blessings during this time was to rededicate the
beautiful Laie Hawaii Temple, which had been undergoing extensive renovations for
nearly two years. I was accompanied by President and Sister Henry B. Eyring, Elder and
Sister Quentin L. Cook, and Elder and Sister William R. Walker. During the evening prior
to the rededication, which took place during November, we watched 2,000 young people

from the temple district as they filled the Cannon Activities Center on the BYUHawaii
campus and performed for us. Their production was titled The Gathering Place and
creatively and masterfully recounted significant events in local Church history and the
history of the temple. What a wonderful evening it was!
The following day was a spiritual feast as the temple was rededicated in three sessions.
The Spirit of the Lord was with us in rich abundance.
We continue to build temples. It is my privilege this morning to announce three
additional temples for which sites are being acquired and which, in coming months and
years, will be built in the following locations: Fort Collins, Colorado; Meridian, Idaho; and
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. They will certainly be a blessing to our members in those
areas.
Each year millions of ordinances are performed in the temples. May we continue to be
faithful in performing such ordinances, not only for ourselves but also for our deceased
loved ones who are unable to do so for themselves.
The Church continues to provide humanitarian aid in times of disaster. Most recently our
hearts and our help have gone out to Japan following the devastating earthquake and
tsunami and the resultant nuclear challenges. We have distributed over 70 tons of
supplies, including food, water, blankets, bedding, hygiene items, clothing, and fuel. Our
young single adults have volunteered their time to locate missing members using the
Internet, social media, and other modern means of communication. Members are
delivering aid via scooters provided by the Church to areas that are difficult to reach by
car. Service projects to assemble hygiene kits and cleaning kits are being organized in
multiple stakes and wards in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. Thus far, over 40,000 hours of
service have been donated by more than 4,000 volunteers. Our help will be ongoing in
Japan and in any other areas where there is need.
My brothers and sisters, I thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel, for the
love and care you show to one another, and for the service you provide in your wards
and branches and stakes and districts. Thank you, as well, for your faithfulness in paying
your tithes and offerings and for your generosity in contributing to the other funds of the
Church.
As of the end of the year 2010, there were 52,225 missionaries serving in 340 missions
throughout the world. Missionary work is the lifeblood of the kingdom. May I suggest that
if you are able, you might consider making a contribution to the General Missionary Fund
of the Church.
Now, brothers and sisters, we are anxious to listen to the messages which will be
presented to us today and tomorrow. Those who will address us have sought heavens
help and direction as they have prepared their messages. That we may be filled with the
Spirit of the Lord and be uplifted and inspired as we listen and learn is my prayer. In the
name of Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2011 General Conference

Priesthood Power
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May we be worthy recipients of the divine power of the priesthood we bear.
May it bless our lives and may we use it to bless the lives of others.
I prayed and studied long about what I might say tonight. I wish not to offend anyone. I
thought, What are the challenges we have? What do I deal with every day that causes
me to weep sometimes late into the night? I thought that I would try to address a few of
those challenges tonight. Some will apply to the young men. Some will apply to those
who are middle aged. Some will apply to those who are a little bit above middle age. We
dont talk about old age.
And so I simply want to begin by declaring, it has been good for us to be together this
evening. Weve heard wonderful and timely messages concerning the priesthood of God.
I, with you, have been uplifted and inspired.
Tonight I wish to address matters which have been much on my mind of late and which I
have felt impressed to share with you. In one way or another, they all relate to the
personal worthiness required to receive and exercise the sacred power of the priesthood
which we hold.
May I begin by reciting to you from section 121 of the Doctrine and Covenants:
The rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and
the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of
righteousness.
That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our
sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or
compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness,
behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it
is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man.
1

Brethren, that is the definitive word of the Lord concerning His divine authority. We
cannot be in doubt as to the obligation this places upon each of us who bear the
priesthood of God.
We have come to the earth in troubled times. The moral compass of the masses has
gradually shifted to an almost anything goes position.
Ive lived long enough to have witnessed much of the metamorphosis of societys
morals. Where once the standards of the Church and the standards of society were
mostly compatible, now there is a wide chasm between us, and its growing ever wider.
Many movies and television shows portray behavior which is in direct opposition to the
laws of God. Do not subject yourself to the innuendo and outright filth which are so often

found there. The lyrics in much of todays music fall in the same category. The profanity
so prevalent around us today would never have been tolerated in the not-too-distant
past. Sadly, the Lords name is taken in vain over and over again. Recall with me the
commandmentone of the tenwhich the Lord revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai: Thou
shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him
guiltless that taketh his name in vain. I am sorry that any of us is subjected to profane
language, and I plead with you not to use it. I implore you not to say or to do anything of
which you cannot be proud.
2

Stay completely away from pornography. Do not allow yourself to view it, ever. It has
proven to be an addiction which is more than difficult to overcome. Avoid alcohol and
tobacco or any other drugs, also addictions which you would be hard pressed to conquer.
What will protect you from the sin and evil around you? I maintain that a strong
testimony of our Savior and of His gospel will help see you through to safety. If you have
not read the Book of Mormon, read it. I will not ask for a show of hands. If you do so
prayerfully and with a sincere desire to know the truth, the Holy Ghost will manifest its
truth to you. If it is trueand it isthen Joseph Smith was a prophet who saw God the
Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Church is true. If you do not already have a
testimony of these things, do that which is necessary to obtain one. It is essential for you
to have your own testimony, for the testimonies of others will carry you only so far. Once
obtained, a testimony needs to be kept vital and alive through obedience to the
commandments of God and through regular prayer and scripture study. Attend church.
You young men, attend seminary or institute if such is available to you.
Should there be anything amiss in your life, there is open to you a way out. Cease any
unrighteousness. Talk with your bishop. Whatever the problem, it can be worked out
through proper repentance. You can become clean once again. Said the Lord, speaking of
those who repent, Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, and
I, the Lord, remember them no more.
3

The Savior of mankind described Himself as being in the world but not of the world. We
also can be in the world but not of the world as we reject false concepts and false
teachings and remain true to that which God has commanded.
5

Now, I have thought a lot lately about you young men who are of an age to marry but
who have not yet felt to do so. I see lovely young ladies who desire to be married and to
raise families, and yet their opportunities are limited because so many young men are
postponing marriage.
This is not a new situation. Much has been said concerning this matter by past Presidents
of the Church. I share with you just one or two examples of their counsel.
Said President Harold B. Lee, We are not doing our duty as holders of the priesthood
when we go beyond the marriageable age and withhold ourselves from an honorable
marriage to these lovely women.
6

President Gordon B. Hinckley said this: My heart reaches out to our single sisters,
who long for marriage and cannot seem to find it. I have far less sympathy for the
young men, who under the customs of our society, have the prerogative to take the
initiative in these matters but in so many cases fail to do so.
7

I realize there are many reasons why you may be hesitating to take that step of getting
married. If you are concerned about providing financially for a wife and family, may I
assure you that there is no shame in a couple having to scrimp and save. It is generally
during these challenging times that you will grow closer together as you learn to sacrifice
and to make difficult decisions. Perhaps you are afraid of making the wrong choice. To
this I say that you need to exercise faith. Find someone with whom you can be
compatible. Realize that you will not be able to anticipate every challenge which may
arise, but be assured that almost anything can be worked out if you are resourceful and
if you are committed to making your marriage work.
Perhaps you are having a little too much fun being single, taking extravagant vacations,
buying expensive cars and toys, and just generally enjoying the carefree life with your
friends. Ive encountered groups of you running around together, and I admit that Ive
wondered why you arent out with the young ladies.
Brethren, there is a point at which its time to think seriously about marriage and to seek
a companion with whom you want to spend eternity. If you choose wisely and if you are
committed to the success of your marriage, there is nothing in this life which will bring
you greater happiness.
When you marry, brethren, you will wish to marry in the house of the Lord. For you who
hold the priesthood, there should be no other option. Be careful lest you destroy your
eligibility to be so married. You can keep your courtship within proper bounds while still
having a wonderful time.
Now, brethren, I turn to another subject about which I feel impressed to address you. In
the three years since I was sustained as President of the Church, I believe the saddest
and most discouraging responsibility I have each week is the handling of cancellations of
sealings. Each one was preceded by a joyous marriage in the house of the Lord, where a
loving couple was beginning a new life together and looking forward to spending the rest
of eternity with each other. And then months and years go by, and for one reason or
another, love dies. It may be the result of financial problems, lack of communication,
uncontrolled tempers, interference from in-laws, entanglement in sin. There are any
number of reasons. In most cases divorce does not have to be the outcome.
The vast majority of requests for cancellations of sealings come from women who tried
desperately to make a go of the marriage but who, in the final analysis, could not
overcome the problems.
Choose a companion carefully and prayerfully; and when you are married, be fiercely
loyal one to another. Priceless advice comes from a small framed plaque I once saw in
the home of an uncle and aunt. It read, Choose your love; love your choice. There is
great wisdom in those few words. Commitment in marriage is absolutely essential.
Your wife is your equal. In marriage neither partner is superior nor inferior to the other.
You walk side by side as a son and a daughter of God. She is not to be demeaned or
insulted but should be respected and loved. Said President Gordon B. Hinckley: Any man
in this Church who exercises unrighteous dominion over [his wife] is unworthy to hold
the priesthood. Though he may have been ordained, the heavens will withdraw, the
Spirit of the Lord will be grieved, and it will be amen to the authority of the priesthood of
that man.
8

President Howard W. Hunter said this about marriage: Being happily and successfully
married is generally not so much a matter of marrying the right person as it is being the
right person. I like that. The conscious effort to do ones part fully is the greatest
element contributing to success.
9

Many years ago in the ward over which I presided as the bishop, there lived a couple who
often had very serious, heated disagreements. I mean real disagreements. Each of the
two was certain of his or her position. Neither one would yield to the other. When they
werent arguing, they maintained what I would call an uneasy truce.
One morning at 2:00 a.m. I had a telephone call from the couple. They wanted to talk to
me, and they wanted to talk right then. I dragged myself from bed, dressed, and went to
their home. They sat on opposite sides of the room, not speaking to each other. The wife
communicated with her husband by talking to me. He replied to her by talking to me. I
thought, How in the world are we going to get this couple together?
I prayed for inspiration, and the thought came to me to ask them a question. I said, How
long has it been since you have been to the temple and witnessed a temple sealing?
They admitted it had been a very long time. They were otherwise worthy people who
held temple recommends and who went to the temple and did ordinance work for others.
I said to them, Will you come with me to the temple on Wednesday morning at 8:00? We
will witness a sealing ceremony there.
In unison they asked, Whose ceremony?
I responded, I dont know. It will be for whoever is getting married that morning.
On the following Wednesday at the appointed hour, we met at the Salt Lake Temple. The
three of us went into one of the beautiful sealing rooms, not knowing a soul in the room
except Elder ElRay L. Christiansen, then an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve, a
General Authority position which existed at that time. Elder Christiansen was scheduled
to perform a sealing ceremony for a bride and groom in that very room that morning. I
am confident the bride and her family thought, These must be friends of the groom
and that the grooms family thought, These must be friends of the bride. My couple
were seated on a little bench with about a full two feet (0.6 m) of space between them.
Elder Christiansen began by providing counsel to the couple who were being married,
and he did so in a beautiful fashion. He mentioned how a husband should love his wife,
how he should treat her with respect and courtesy, honoring her as the heart of the
home. Then he talked to the bride about how she should honor her husband as the head
of the home and be of support to him in every way.
I noticed that as Elder Christiansen spoke to the bride and the groom, my couple moved
a little closer together. Soon they were seated right next to one another. What pleased
me is that they had both moved at about the same rate. By the end of the ceremony, my
couple were sitting as close to each other as though they were the newlyweds. Each was
smiling.
We left the temple that day, and no one ever knew who we were or why we had come,
but my friends were holding hands as they walked out the front door. Their differences

had been set aside. I had not had to say one word. You see, they remembered their own
wedding day and the covenants they had made in the house of God. They were
committed to beginning again and trying harder this time around.
If any of you are having difficulty in your marriage, I urge you to do all that you can to
make whatever repairs are necessary, that you might be as happy as you were when
your marriage started out. We who are married in the house of the Lord do so for time
and for all eternity, and then we must put forth the necessary effort to make it so. I
realize that there are situations where marriages cannot be saved, but I feel strongly that
for the most part they can be and should be. Do not let your marriage get to the point
where it is in jeopardy.
President Hinckley taught that it is up to each of us who hold the priesthood of God to
discipline ourselves so that we stand above the ways of the world. It is essential that we
be honorable and decent men. Our actions must be above reproach.
The words we speak, the way we treat others, and the way we live our lives all impact
our effectiveness as men and boys holding the priesthood.
The gift of the priesthood is priceless. It carries with it the authority to act as Gods
servants, to administer to the sick, to bless our families, and to bless others as well. Its
authority can reach beyond the veil of death, on into the eternities. There is nothing else
to compare with it in all this world. Safeguard it, treasure it, live worthy of it.
10

My beloved brethren, may righteousness guide our every step as we journey through life.
Today and always, may we be worthy recipients of the divine power of the priesthood we
bear. May it bless our lives and may we use it to bless the lives of others, as did He who
lived and died for useven Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. This is my prayer in His
sacred name, His holy name, amen.

April 2011 General Conference

The Holy Templea Beacon to the World

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
The all-important and crowning blessings of membership in the Church are
those blessings which we receive in the temples of God.
My beloved brothers and sisters, I extend my love and greetings to each of you and pray
that our Heavenly Father will guide my thoughts and inspire my words as I speak to you
today.
May I begin by making a comment or two concerning the fine messages we have heard
this morning from Sister Allred and Bishop Burton and others pertaining to the Churchs

welfare program. As indicated, this year marks the 75th anniversary of this inspired
program, which has blessed the lives of so many. It was my privilege to know personally
some of those who pioneered this great endeavormen of compassion and foresight.
As both Bishop Burton and Sister Allred and others mentioned, the bishop of the ward is
given the responsibility to care for those in need who reside within the boundaries of his
ward. Such was my privilege when I presided as a very young bishop in Salt Lake City
over a ward of 1,080 members, including 84 widows. There were many who needed
assistance. How grateful I was for the welfare program of the Church and for the help of
the Relief Society and the priesthood quorums.
I declare that the welfare program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is
inspired of Almighty God.
Now, my brothers and sisters, this conference marks three years since I was sustained as
President of the Church. Of course they have been busy years, filled with many
challenges but also with countless blessings. The opportunity I have had to dedicate and
rededicate temples has been among the most enjoyable and sacred of these blessings,
and it is concerning the temple that I wish to speak to you today.
During the October general conference in 1902, Church President Joseph F. Smith
expressed in his opening address the hope that one day we would have temples built in
the various parts of the [world] where they are needed for the convenience of the
people.
1

During the first 150 years following the organization of the Church, from 1830 to 1980,
21 temples were built, including the temples in Kirtland, Ohio, and Nauvoo, Illinois.
Contrast that with the 30 years since 1980, during which 115 temples were built and
dedicated. With the announcement yesterday of 3 new temples, there are additionally 26
temples either under construction or in preconstruction stages. These numbers will
continue to grow.
The goal President Joseph F. Smith hoped for in 1902 is becoming a reality. Our desire is
to make the temple as accessible as possible to our members.
One of the temples currently under construction is in Manaus, Brazil. Many years ago I
read of a group of over a hundred members who left Manaus, located in the heart of the
Amazon rain forest, to travel to what was then the closest temple, located in So Paulo,
Brazilnearly 2,500 miles (4,000 km) from Manaus. Those faithful Saints journeyed by
boat for four days on the Amazon River and its tributaries. After completing this journey
by water, they boarded buses for another three days of travelover bumpy roads, with
very little to eat, and with nowhere comfortable to sleep. After seven days and nights,
they arrived at the temple in So Paulo, where ordinances eternal in nature were
performed. Of course their return journey was just as difficult. However, they had
received the ordinances and blessings of the temple, and although their purses were
empty, they themselves were filled with the spirit of the temple and with gratitude for
the blessings they had received. Now, many years later, our members in Manaus are
rejoicing as they watch their own temple take shape on the banks of the Rio Negro.
Temples bring joy to our faithful members wherever they are built.
2

Reports of the sacrifices made in order to receive the blessings found only in temples of
God never fail to touch my heart and bring to me a renewed sense of thankfulness for
temples.
May I share with you the account of Tihi and Tararaina Mou Tham and their 10 children.
The entire family except for one daughter joined the Church in the early 1960s, when
missionaries came to their island, located about 100 miles (160 km) south of Tahiti. Soon
they began to desire the blessings of an eternal family sealing in the temple.
At that time the nearest temple to the Mou Tham family was the Hamilton New Zealand
Temple, more than 2,500 miles (4,000 km) to the southwest, accessible only by
expensive airplane travel. The large Mou Tham family, which eked out a meager living on
a small plantation, had no money for airplane fare, nor was there any opportunity for
employment on their Pacific island. So Brother Mou Tham and his son Grard made the
difficult decision to travel 3,000 miles (4,800 km) to work in New Caledonia, where
another son was already employed.
The three Mou Tham men labored for four years. Brother Mou Tham alone returned home
only once during that time, for the marriage of a daughter.
After four years, Brother Mou Tham and his sons had saved enough money to take the
family to the New Zealand Temple. All who were members went except for one daughter,
who was expecting a baby. They were sealed for time and eternity, an indescribable and
joyful experience.
Brother Mou Tham returned from the temple directly to New Caledonia, where he worked
for two more years to pay for the passage of the one daughter who had not been at the
temple with thema married daughter and her child and husband.
In their later years Brother and Sister Mou Tham desired to serve in the temple. By that
time the Papeete Tahiti Temple had been constructed and dedicated, and they served
four missions there.
3

My brothers and sisters, temples are more than stone and mortar. They are filled with
faith and fasting. They are built of trials and testimonies. They are sanctified by sacrifice
and service.
The first temple to be built in this dispensation was the temple at Kirtland, Ohio. The
Saints at the time were impoverished, and yet the Lord had commanded that a temple
be built, so build it they did. Wrote Elder Heber C. Kimball of the experience, The Lord
only knows the scenes of poverty, tribulation and distress which we passed through to
accomplish it. And then, after all that had been painstakingly completed, the Saints
were forced to leave Ohio and their beloved temple. They eventually found refuge
although it would be temporaryon the banks of the Mississippi River in the state of
Illinois. They named their settlement Nauvoo, and willing to give their all once again and
with their faith intact, they erected another temple to their God. Persecutions raged,
however, and with the Nauvoo Temple barely completed, they were driven from their
homes once again, seeking refuge in a desert.
4

The struggle and the sacrifice began once again as they labored for 40 years to erect the
Salt Lake Temple, which stands majestically on the block just south of those of us who
are here today in the Conference Center.
Some degree of sacrifice has ever been associated with temple building and with temple
attendance. Countless are those who have labored and struggled in order to obtain for
themselves and for their families the blessings which are found in the temples of God.
Why are so many willing to give so much in order to receive the blessings of the temple?
Those who understand the eternal blessings which come from the temple know that no
sacrifice is too great, no price too heavy, no struggle too difficult in order to receive
those blessings. There are never too many miles to travel, too many obstacles to
overcome, or too much discomfort to endure. They understand that the saving
ordinances received in the temple that permit us to someday return to our Heavenly
Father in an eternal family relationship and to be endowed with blessings and power
from on high are worth every sacrifice and every effort.
Today most of us do not have to suffer great hardships in order to attend the temple.
Eighty-five percent of the membership of the Church now live within 200 miles (320 km)
of a temple, and for a great many of us, that distance is much shorter.
If you have been to the temple for yourselves and if you live within relatively close
proximity to a temple, your sacrifice could be setting aside the time in your busy lives to
visit the temple regularly. There is much to be done in our temples in behalf of those who
wait beyond the veil. As we do the work for them, we will know that we have
accomplished what they cannot do for themselves. President Joseph F. Smith, in a mighty
declaration, stated, Through our efforts in their behalf their chains of bondage will fall
from them, and the darkness surrounding them will clear away, that light may shine
upon them and they shall hear in the spirit world of the work that has been done for
them by their children here, and will rejoice with you in your performance of these
duties. My brothers and sisters, the work is ours to do.
5

In my own family, some of our most sacred and treasured experiences have occurred
when we have joined together in the temple to perform sealing ordinances for our
deceased ancestors.
If you have not yet been to the temple or if you have been but currently do not qualify
for a recommend, there is no more important goal for you to work toward than being
worthy to go to the temple. Your sacrifice may be bringing your life into compliance with
what is required to receive a recommend, perhaps by forsaking long-held habits which
disqualify you. It may be having the faith and the discipline to pay your tithing. Whatever
it is, qualify to enter the temple of God. Secure a temple recommend and regard it as a
precious possession, for such it is.
Until you have entered the house of the Lord and have received all the blessings which
await you there, you have not obtained everything the Church has to offer. The allimportant and crowning blessings of membership in the Church are those blessings
which we receive in the temples of God.
Now, my young friends who are in your teenage years, always have the temple in your
sights. Do nothing which will keep you from entering its doors and partaking of the

sacred and eternal blessings there. I commend those of you who already go to the
temple regularly to perform baptisms for the dead, arising in the very early hours of the
morning so you can participate in such baptisms before school begins. I can think of no
better way to start a day.
To you parents of young children, may I share with you some sage advice from President
Spencer W. Kimball. Said he: It would be a fine thing if parents would have in every
bedroom in their house a picture of the temple so [their children] from the time [they
are] infant[s] could look at the picture every day [until] it becomes a part of [their lives].
When [they reach] the age that [they need] to make [the] very important decision
[concerning going to the temple], it will have already been made.
6

Our children sing in Primary:

I love to see the temple.
Ill go inside someday.
Ill covnant with my Father;
Ill promise to obey.
7

I plead with you to teach your children of the temples importance.

The world can be a challenging and difficult place in which to live. We are often
surrounded by that which would drag us down. As you and I go to the holy houses of
God, as we remember the covenants we make within, we will be more able to bear every
trial and to overcome each temptation. In this sacred sanctuary we will find peace; we
will be renewed and fortified.
Now, my brothers and sisters, may I mention one more temple before I close. In the nottoo-distant future as new temples take shape around the world, one will rise in a city
which came into being over 2,500 years ago. I speak of the temple which is now being
built in Rome, Italy.
Every temple is a house of God, filling the same functions and with identical blessings
and ordinances. The Rome Italy Temple, uniquely, is being built in one of the most
historic locations in the world, a city where the ancient Apostles Peter and Paul preached
the gospel of Christ and where each was martyred.
Last October, as we gathered on a lovely pastoral site in the northeast corner of Rome, it
was my opportunity to offer a prayer of dedication as we prepared to break the ground. I
felt impressed to call upon Italian senator Lucio Malan and Romes vice-mayor Giuseppe
Ciardi to be among the first to turn a shovelful of earth. Each had been a part of the
decision to allow us to build a temple in their city.
The day was overcast but warm, and although rain threatened, not more than a drop or
two fell. As the magnificent choir sang in Italian the beautiful strains of The Spirit of
God, one felt as though heaven and earth were joined in a glorious hymn of praise and
gratitude to Almighty God. Tears could not be restrained.
In a coming day, the faithful in this, the Eternal City, will receive ordinances eternal in
nature in a holy house of God.

I express my undying gratitude to my Heavenly Father for the temple now being built in
Rome and for all of our temples, wherever they are. Each one stands as a beacon to the
world, an expression of our testimony that God, our Eternal Father, lives, that He desires
to bless us and, indeed, to bless His sons and daughters of all generations. Each of our
temples is an expression of our testimony that life beyond the grave is as real and as
certain as is our life here on earth. I so testify.
My beloved brothers and sisters, may we make whatever sacrifices are necessary to
attend the temple and to have the spirit of the temple in our hearts and in our homes.
May we follow in the footsteps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who made the
ultimate sacrifice for us, that we might have eternal life and exaltation in our Heavenly
Fathers kingdom. This is my sincere prayer, and I offer it in the name of our Savior, Jesus
Christ the Lord, amen.

April 2011 General Conference

At Parting
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
None of us can conceive the full import of what Christ did for us in
Gethsemane, but I am grateful every day of my life for His atoning sacrifice.
My brothers and sisters, my heart is full as we come to the close of this conference. We
have felt the Spirit of the Lord in rich abundance. I express my appreciation and that of
members of the Church everywhere to each one who has participated, including those
who have offered prayers. May we long remember the messages we have heard. As we
receive the issues of the Ensign and Liahona magazines which will contain these
messages in written form, may we read and study them.
Once again the music in all of the sessions has been wonderful. I express my personal
gratitude for those willing to share with us their talents, touching and inspiring us in the
process.
We have sustained, by uplifted hand, Brethren who have been called to new positions
during this conference. We want them to know that we look forward to working with
them in the cause of the Master.
I express my love and appreciation for my devoted counselors, President Henry B. Eyring
and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. They are men of wisdom and understanding. Their
service is invaluable. I love and support my Brethren of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles. They serve most effectively, and they are completely dedicated to the work. I
also express my love to the members of the Seventy and the Presiding Bishopric.

We face many challenges in the world today, but I assure you that our Heavenly Father is
mindful of us. He loves each of us and will bless us as we seek Him through prayer and
strive to keep His commandments.
We are a global church. Our membership is found throughout the world. May we be good
citizens of the nations in which we live and good neighbors in our communities, reaching
out to those of other faiths as well as to those of our own. May we be examples of
honesty and integrity wherever we go and in whatever we do.
Thank you for your prayers in my behalf, brothers and sisters, and in behalf of all of the
General Authorities of the Church. We are deeply grateful for you and for all that you do
to further the work of the Lord.
As you return to your homes, may you do so safely. May the blessings of heaven be upon
you.
Now, before we leave today, may I share with you my love for the Savior and for His
great atoning sacrifice for us. In three weeks time the entire Christian world will be
celebrating Easter. I believe that none of us can conceive the full import of what Christ
did for us in Gethsemane, but I am grateful every day of my life for His atoning sacrifice
in our behalf.
At the last moment, He could have turned back. But He did not. He passed beneath all
things that He might save all things. In doing so, He gave us life beyond this mortal
existence. He reclaimed us from the Fall of Adam.
To the depths of my very soul, I am grateful to Him. He taught us how to live. He taught
us how to die. He secured our salvation.
As I close, may I share with you touching words written by Emily Harris which describe so
well my feelings as Easter comes:
The linen which once held Him is empty.
It lies there,
Fresh and white and clean.
The door stands opened.
The stone is rolled away,
And I can almost hear the angels singing His praises.
Linen cannot hold Him.
Stone cannot hold Him.
The words echo through the empty limestone chamber,
He is not here.
The linen which once held Him is now empty.
It lies there,
Fresh and white and clean
And oh, hallelujah, it is empty.
1

Blessings to you, my brothers and sisters. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen.

October 2011 General Conference

As We Meet Again
Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
It is my prayer that we may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord as we listen
to the messages today and tomorrow and learn those things the Lord would
have us know.
It is good, brothers and sisters, to welcome you to the 181st Semiannual General
Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
This conference marks 48 yearsthink of it, 48 yearssince I was called to the Quorum
of the Twelve Apostles by President David O. McKay. That was in October of 1963. It
seems impossible that so many years have come and gone since then.
When were busy, time seems to pass far too quickly, and the past six months have been
no exception for me. One of the highlights during that period was the opportunity I had
to rededicate the Atlanta Georgia Temple on May 1. I was accompanied by Elder and
Sister M. Russell Ballard, Elder and Sister Walter F. Gonzlez, and Elder and Sister William
R. Walker.
During the cultural celebration entitled Southern Lights, held the evening prior to the
rededication, 2,700 young men and young women from throughout the temple district
performed. It was one of the most outstanding programs I have seen and had the
audience on its feet several times for standing ovations.
The following day the temple was rededicated in two sessions, where the Spirit of the
Lord was with us in rich abundance.
During the latter part of August, President Henry B. Eyring dedicated the San Salvador El
Salvador Temple. He was accompanied by Sister Eyring and by Elder and Sister D. Todd
Christofferson, Elder and Sister William R. Walker, and Sister Silvia H. Allred of the Relief
Society general presidency and her husband, Jeffry. President Eyring reported that it was
a most spiritual event.
In the latter part of this year, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Sister Uchtdorf will travel
with other General Authorities to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, where he will dedicate our
temple there.
The building of temples continues uninterrupted, brothers and sisters. Today it is my
privilege to announce several new temples.
First, may I mention that no Church-built facility is more important than a temple.
Temples are places where relationships are sealed together to last through the eternities.

We are grateful for all the many temples across the world and for the blessing they are in
the lives of our members.
Late last year the Provo Tabernacle in Utah County was seriously damaged by a terrible
fire. This wonderful building, much beloved by generations of Latter-day Saints, was left
with only the exterior walls standing. After careful study, we have decided to rebuild it
with full preservation and restoration of the exterior, to become the second temple of the
Church in the city of Provo. The existing Provo Temple is one of the busiest in the Church,
and a second temple there will accommodate the increasing numbers of faithful Church
members who are attending the temple from Provo and the surrounding communities.
I am also pleased to announce new temples in the following locations: Barranquilla,
Colombia; Durban, South Africa; Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; and
Star Valley, Wyoming. In addition, we are moving forward on our plans for a temple to be
built in Paris, France.
Details of these temples will be provided in the future as site and other necessary
approvals are obtained.
I have mentioned in previous conferences the progress we are making in placing temples
closer to our members. Although they are readily available to many members in the
Church, there are still areas of the world where temples are so distant from our members
that they cannot afford the travel required to get to them. They are thus unable to
partake of the sacred and eternal blessings temples provide. To help in this regard, we
have available what is called the General Temple Patron Assistance Fund. This fund
provides a one-time visit to the temple for those who otherwise would not be able to go
to the temple and yet who long desperately for that opportunity. Any who might wish to
contribute to this fund can simply write in the information on the normal contribution slip
which is given to the bishop each month.
Now, brothers and sisters, it is my prayer that we may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord
as we listen to the messages today and tomorrow and learn those things the Lord would
have us know. This I pray for in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2011 General Conference

Dare to Stand Alone

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May we ever be courageous and prepared to stand for what we believe.
My beloved brethren, it is a tremendous privilege to be with you tonight. We who hold
the priesthood of God form a great bond and brotherhood.

We read in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 121, verse 36, that the rights of the
priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven. What a wonderful gift
we have been givento hold the priesthood, which is inseparably connected with the
powers of heaven. This precious gift, however, brings with it not only special blessings
but also solemn responsibilities. We must conduct our lives so that we are ever worthy of
the priesthood we bear. We live in a time when we are surrounded by much that is
intended to entice us into paths which may lead to our destruction. To avoid such paths
requires determination and courage.
I recall a timeand some of you here tonight will alsowhen the standards of most
people were very similar to our standards. No longer is this true. I recently read an article
in the New York Times concerning a study which took place during the summer of 2008.
A distinguished Notre Dame sociologist led a research team in conducting in-depth
interviews with 230 young adults across America. I believe we can safely assume that
the results would be similar in most parts of the world.
I share with you just a portion of this very telling article:
The interviewers asked open-ended questions about right and wrong, moral dilemmas
and the meaning of life. In the rambling answers, you see the young people groping to
say anything sensible on these matters. But they just dont have the categories or
vocabulary to do so.
When asked to describe a moral dilemma they had faced, two-thirds of the young
people either couldnt answer the question or described problems that are not moral at
all, like whether they could afford to rent a certain apartment or whether they had
enough quarters to feed the meter at a parking spot.
The article continues:
The default position, which most of them came back to again and again, is that moral
choices are just a matter of individual taste. Its personal, the respondents typically
said. Its up to the individual. Who am I to say?
Rejecting blind deference to authority, many of the young people have gone off to the
other extreme [saying]: I would do what I thought made me happy or how I felt. I have
no other way of knowing what to do but how I internally feel.
Those who conducted the interviews emphasized that the majority of the young people
with whom they spoke had not been given the resourcesby schools, institutions [or]
familiesto cultivate their moral intuitions.
1

Brethren, none within the sound of my voice should be in any doubt concerning what is
moral and what is not, nor should any be in doubt about what is expected of us as
holders of the priesthood of God. We have been and continue to be taught Gods laws.
Despite what you may see or hear elsewhere, these laws are unchanging.
As we go about living from day to day, it is almost inevitable that our faith will be
challenged. We may at times find ourselves surrounded by others and yet standing in the
minority or even standing alone concerning what is acceptable and what is not. Do we
have the moral courage to stand firm for our beliefs, even if by so doing we must stand

alone? As holders of the priesthood of God, it is essential that we are able to facewith
couragewhatever challenges come our way. Remember the words of Tennyson: My
strength is as the strength of ten, because my heart is pure.
2

Increasingly, some celebrities and others whofor one reason or anotherare in the
public eye have a tendency to ridicule religion in general and, at times, the Church in
particular. If our testimonies are not firmly enough rooted, such criticisms can cause us
to doubt our own beliefs or to waver in our resolves.
In Lehis vision of the tree of life, found in 1 Nephi 8, Lehi sees, among others, those who
hold to the iron rod until they come forth and partake of the fruit of the tree of life, which
we know is a representation of the love of God. And then, sadly, after they partake of the
fruit, some are ashamed because of those in the great and spacious building, who
represent the pride of the children of men, who are pointing fingers at them and scoffing
at them; and they fall away into forbidden paths and are lost. What a powerful tool of
the adversary is ridicule and mockery! Again, brethren, do we have the courage to stand
strong and firm in the face of such difficult opposition?
3

I believe my first experience in having the courage of my convictions took place when I
served in the United States Navy near the end of World War II.
Navy boot camp was not an easy experience for me, nor for anyone who endured it. For
the first three weeks I was convinced my life was in jeopardy. The navy wasnt trying to
train me; it was trying to kill me.
I shall ever remember when Sunday rolled around after the first week. We received
welcome news from the chief petty officer. Standing at attention on the drill ground in a
brisk California breeze, we heard his command: Today everybody goes to church
everybody, that is, except for me. I am going to relax! Then he shouted, All of you
Catholics, you meet in Camp Decaturand dont come back until three oclock. Forward,
march! A rather sizeable contingent moved out. Then he barked out his next command:
Those of you who are Jewish, you meet in Camp Henryand dont come back until three
oclock. Forward, march! A somewhat smaller contingent marched out. Then he said,
The rest of you Protestants, you meet in the theaters at Camp Farragutand dont
come back until three oclock. Forward, march!
Instantly there flashed through my mind the thought, Monson, you are not a Catholic;
you are not a Jew; you are not a Protestant. You are a Mormon, so you just stand here! I
can assure you that I felt completely alone. Courageous and determined, yesbut alone.
And then I heard the sweetest words I ever heard that chief petty officer utter. He looked
in my direction and asked, And just what do you guys call yourselves? Until that very
moment I had not realized that anyone was standing beside me or behind me on the drill
ground. Almost in unison, each of us replied, Mormons! It is difficult to describe the joy
that filled my heart as I turned around and saw a handful of other sailors.
The chief petty officer scratched his head in an expression of puzzlement but finally said,
Well, you guys go find somewhere to meet. And dont come back until three oclock.
Forward, march!

As we marched away, I thought of the words of a rhyme I had learned in Primary years
before:
Dare
Dare
Dare
Dare

to
to
to
to

be a Mormon;
stand alone.
have a purpose firm;
make it known.

Although the experience turned out differently from what I had expected, I had been
willing to stand alone, had such been necessary.
Since that day, there have been times when there was no one standing behind me and
so I did stand alone. How grateful I am that I made the decision long ago to remain
strong and true, always prepared and ready to defend my religion, should the need arise.
Lest we at any time feel inadequate for the tasks ahead for us, brethren, may I share
with you a statement made in 1987 by then-Church President Ezra Taft Benson as he
addressed a large group of members in California. Said President Benson:
In all ages, prophets have looked down through the corridors of time to our day. Billions
of the deceased and those yet to be born have their eyes on us. Make no mistake about
ityou are a marked generation.
For nearly six thousand years, God has held you in reserve to make your appearance in
the final days before the second coming of the Lord. Some individuals will fall away, but
the kingdom of God will remain intact to welcome the return of its Headeven Jesus
Christ.
While this generation will be comparable in wickedness to the days of Noah, when the
Lord cleansed the earth by flood, there is a major difference this time: [it is that] God has
saved for the final inning some of His strongest children, who will help bear off the
kingdom triumphantly.
4

Yes, brethren, we represent some of His strongest children. Ours is the responsibility to
be worthy of all the glorious blessings our Father in Heaven has in store for us. Wherever
we go, our priesthood goes with us. Are we standing in holy places? Please, before you
put yourself and your priesthood in jeopardy by venturing into places or participating in
activities which are not worthy of you or of that priesthood, pause to consider the
consequences. Each of us has had conferred upon him the Aaronic Priesthood. In the
process, each received the power which holds the keys to the ministering of angels. Said
President Gordon B. Hinckley:
You cannot afford to do anything that would place a curtain between you and the
ministering of angels in your behalf.
You cannot be immoral in any sense. You cannot be dishonest. You cannot cheat or lie.
You cannot take the name of God in vain or use filthy language and still have the right to
the ministering of angels.
5

If any of you has stumbled in your journey, I want you to understand without any
question whatsoever that there is a way back. The process is called repentance. Our

Savior gave His life to provide you and me that blessed gift. Despite the fact that the
repentance path is not easy, the promises are real. We have been told: Though your
sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. And I will remember [them] no
more. What a statement. What a blessing. What a promise.
6

There may be those of you who are thinking to yourselves, Well, Im not living all the
commandments, and Im not doing everything I should, and yet my life is going along
just fine. I think I can have my cake and eat it too. Brethren, I promise you that this will
not work in the long run.
Not too many months ago I received a letter from a man who once thought he could
have it both ways. He has now repented and has brought his life into compliance with
gospel principles and commandments. I want to share with you a paragraph from his
letter, for it represents the reality of flawed thinking: I have had to learn for myself (the
hard way) that the Savior was absolutely correct when He said, No man can serve two
masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the
one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. I tried, about as hard as
anyone ever has, to do both. In the end, said he, I had all of the emptiness, darkness,
and loneliness that Satan provides to those who believe his deceptions, illusions, and
lies.
8

In order for us to be strong and to withstand all the forces pulling us in the wrong
direction or all the voices encouraging us to take the wrong path, we must have our own
testimony. Whether you are 12 or 112or anywhere in betweenyou can know for
yourself that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. Read the Book of Mormon. Ponder its
teachings. Ask Heavenly Father if it is true. We have the promise that if ye shall ask with
a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto
you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
9

When we know the Book of Mormon is true, then it follows that Joseph Smith was indeed
a prophet and that he saw God the Eternal Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. It also
follows that the gospel was restored in these latter days through Joseph Smithincluding
the restoration of both the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods.
Once we have a testimony, it is incumbent upon us to share that testimony with others.
Many of you brethren have served as missionaries throughout the world. Many of you
young men will yet serve. Prepare yourselves now for that opportunity. Make certain you
are worthy to serve.
If we are prepared to share the gospel, we are ready to respond to the counsel of the
Apostle Peter, who urged, Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh
you a reason of the hope that is in you.
10

We will have opportunities throughout our lives to share our beliefs, although we dont
always know when we will be called upon to do so. Such an opportunity came to me in
1957, when I worked in the publishing business and was asked to go to Dallas, Texas,
sometimes called the city of churches, to address a business convention. Following the
conclusion of the convention, I took a sightseeing bus ride through the citys suburbs. As
we passed the various churches, our driver would comment, On the left you see the
Methodist church or There on the right is the Catholic cathedral.

As we passed a beautiful red brick building situated upon a hill, the driver exclaimed,
That building is where the Mormons meet. A lady in the rear of the bus called out,
Driver, can you tell us something more about the Mormons?
The driver pulled the bus over to the side of the road, turned around in his seat, and
replied, Lady, all I know about the Mormons is that they meet in that red brick building.
Is there anyone on this bus who knows anything more about the Mormons?
I waited for someone to respond. I gazed at the expression on each persons face for
some sign of recognition, some desire to comment. Nothing. I realized it was up to me to
do as the Apostle Peter suggested, to be ready always to give an answer to every man
that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you. I also realized the truth of the adage
When the time for decision arrives, the time for preparation is past.
For the next 15 or so minutes, I had the privilege of sharing with those on the bus my
testimony concerning the Church and our beliefs. I was grateful for my testimony and
grateful that I was prepared to share it.
With all my heart and soul, I pray that every man who holds the priesthood will honor
that priesthood and be true to the trust which was conveyed when it was conferred. May
each of us who holds the priesthood of God know what he believes. May we ever be
courageous and prepared to stand for what we believe, and if we must stand alone in the
process, may we do so courageously, strengthened by the knowledge that in reality we
are never alone when we stand with our Father in Heaven.
As we contemplate the great gift we have been giventhe rights of the priesthood
inseparably connected with the powers of heavenmay our determination ever be to
guard and defend it and to be worthy of its great promises. Brethren, may we follow the
Saviors instruction to us found in the book of 3 Nephi: Hold up your light that it may
shine unto the world. Behold I am the light which ye shall hold upthat which ye have
seen me do.
11

That we may ever follow that light and hold it up for all the world to see is my prayer and
my blessing upon all who hear my voice, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2011 General Conference

Stand in Holy Places

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Communication with our Father in Heavenincluding our prayers to Him
and His inspiration to usis necessary in order for us to weather the storms
and trials of life.

My beloved brothers and sisters, we have heard fine messages this morning, and I
commend each who has participated. Were particularly delighted to have Elder Robert
D. Hales with us once again and feeling improved. We love you, Bob.
As I pondered what I would like to say to you this morning, I have felt impressed to share
certain thoughts and feelings which I consider to be pertinent and timely. I pray that I
may be guided in my remarks.
I have lived on this earth for 84 years now. To give you a little perspective, I was born the
same year Charles Lindbergh flew the first solo nonstop flight from New York to Paris in a
single-engine, single-seat monoplane. Much has changed during the 84 years since then.
Man has long since been to the moon and back. In fact, yesterdays science fiction has
become todays reality. And that reality, thanks to the technology of our times, is
changing so fast we can barely keep up with itif we do at all. For those of us who
remember dial telephones and manual typewriters, todays technology is more than
merely amazing.
Also evolving at a rapid rate has been the moral compass of society. Behaviors which
once were considered inappropriate and immoral are now not only tolerated but also
viewed by ever so many as acceptable.
I recently read in the Wall Street Journal an article by Jonathan Sacks, Britains chief
rabbi. Among other things, he writes: In virtually every Western society in the 1960s
there was a moral revolution, an abandonment of its entire traditional ethic of selfrestraint. All you need, sang the Beatles, is love. The Judeo-Christian moral code was
jettisoned. In its place came [the adage]: [Do] whatever works for you. The Ten
Commandments were rewritten as the Ten Creative Suggestions.
Rabbi Sacks goes on to lament:
We have been spending our moral capital with the same reckless abandon that we have
been spending our financial capital.
There are large parts of [the world] where religion is a thing of the past and there is no
counter-voice to the culture of buy it, spend it, wear it, flaunt it, because youre worth it.
The message is that morality is pass, conscience is for wimps, and the single overriding
command is Thou shalt not be found out.
1

My brothers and sisters, thisunfortunatelydescribes much of the world around us. Do

we wring our hands in despair and wonder how well ever survive in such a world? No.
Indeed, we have in our lives the gospel of Jesus Christ, and we know that morality is not
pass, that our conscience is there to guide us, and that we are responsible for our
actions.
Although the world has changed, the laws of God remain constant. They have not
changed; they will not change. The Ten Commandments are just thatcommandments.
They are not suggestions. They are every bit as requisite today as they were when God
gave them to the children of Israel. If we but listen, we hear the echo of Gods voice,
speaking to us here and now:
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
Honour thy father and thy mother.
Thou shalt not kill.
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Thou shalt not steal.
Thou shalt not bear false witness.
Thou shalt not covet.
2

Our code of conduct is definitive; it is not negotiable. It is found not only in the Ten
Commandments but also in the Sermon on the Mount, given to us by the Savior when He
walked upon the earth. It is found throughout His teachings. It is found in the words of
modern revelation.
Our Father in Heaven is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The prophet Mormon
tells us that God is unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity. In this world where
nearly everything seems to be changing, His constancy is something on which we can
rely, an anchor to which we can hold fast and be safe, lest we be swept away into
uncharted waters.
3

It may appear to you at times that those out in the world are having much more fun than
you are. Some of you may feel restricted by the code of conduct to which we in the
Church adhere. My brothers and sisters, I declare to you, however, that there is nothing
which can bring more joy into our lives or more peace to our souls than the Spirit which
can come to us as we follow the Savior and keep the commandments. That Spirit cannot
be present at the kinds of activities in which so much of the world participates. The
Apostle Paul declared the truth: The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of
God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are
spiritually discerned. The term natural man can refer to any of us if we allow ourselves
to be so.
4

We must be vigilant in a world which has moved so far from that which is spiritual. It is
essential that we reject anything that does not conform to our standards, refusing in the
process to surrender that which we desire most: eternal life in the kingdom of God. The
storms will still beat at our doors from time to time, for they are an inescapable part of
our existence in mortality. We, however, will be far better equipped to deal with them, to
learn from them, and to overcome them if we have the gospel at our core and the love of
the Savior in our hearts. The prophet Isaiah declared, The work of righteousness shall
be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.
5

As a means of being in the world but not being of the world, it is necessary that we
communicate with our Heavenly Father through prayer. He wants us to do so; Hell
answer our prayers. The Savior admonished us, as recorded in 3 Nephi 18, to watch and
pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you.
Therefore ye must always pray unto the Father in my name;
And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye
shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you.
6

I gained my testimony of the power of prayer when I was about 12 years old. I had
worked hard to earn some money and had managed to save five dollars. This was during
the Great Depression, when five dollars was a substantial sum of moneyespecially for a
boy of 12. I gave all my coins, which totaled five dollars, to my father, and he gave me in
return a five-dollar bill. I know there was something specific I planned to purchase with
the five dollars, although all these years later I cant recall what it was. I just remember
how important that money was to me.
At the time, we did not own a washing machine, so my mother would send to the laundry
each week our clothes which needed to be washed. After a couple of days, a load of what
we called wet wash would be returned to us, and Mother would hang the items on our
clothesline out back to dry.
I had tucked my five-dollar bill in the pocket of my jeans. As you can probably guess, my
jeans were sent to the laundry with the money still in the pocket. When I realized what
had happened, I was sick with worry. I knew that pockets were routinely checked at the
laundry prior to washing. If my money was not discovered and taken during that process,
I knew it was almost certain the money would be dislodged during washing and would be
claimed by a laundry worker who would have no idea to whom the money should be
returned, even if he had the inclination to do so. The chances of getting back my five
dollars were extremely remotea fact which my dear mother confirmed when I told her I
had left the money in my pocket.
I wanted that money; I needed that money; I had worked very hard to earn that money. I
realized there was only one thing I could do. In my extremity I turned to my Father in
Heaven and pleaded with Him to keep my money safe in that pocket somehow until our
wet wash came back.
Two very long days later, when I knew it was about time for the delivery truck to bring
our wash, I sat by the window, waiting. As the truck pulled up to the curb, my heart was
pounding. As soon as the wet clothes were in the house, I grabbed my jeans and ran to
my bedroom. I reached into the pocket with trembling hands. When I didnt find anything
immediately, I thought all was lost. And then my fingers touched that wet five-dollar bill.
As I pulled it from the pocket, relief flooded over me. I offered a heartfelt prayer of
gratitude to my Father in Heaven, for I knew that He had answered my prayer.
Since that time of long ago, I have had countless prayers answered. Not a day has gone
by that I have not communicated with my Father in Heaven through prayer. It is a
relationship I cherishone I would literally be lost without. If you do not now have such a
relationship with your Father in Heaven, I urge you to work toward that goal. As you do
so, you will be entitled to His inspiration and guidance in your lifenecessities for each
of us if we are to survive spiritually during our sojourn here on earth. Such inspiration
and guidance are gifts He freely gives if we but seek them. What treasures they are!
I am always humbled and grateful when my Heavenly Father communicates with me
through His inspiration. I have learned to recognize it, to trust it, and to follow it. Time
and time again I have been the recipient of such inspiration. One rather dramatic
experience took place in August of 1987 during the dedication of the Frankfurt Germany
Temple. President Ezra Taft Benson had been with us for the first day or two of the
dedication but had returned home, and so it became my opportunity to conduct the
remaining sessions.

On Saturday we had a session for our Dutch members who were in the Frankfurt Temple
district. I was well acquainted with one of our outstanding leaders from the Netherlands,
Brother Peter Mourik. Just prior to the session, I had the distinct impression that Brother
Mourik should be called upon to speak to his fellow Dutch members during the session
and that, in fact, he should be the first speaker. Not having seen him in the temple that
morning, I passed a note to Elder Carlos E. Asay, our Area President, asking whether
Peter Mourik was in attendance at the session. Just prior to standing up to begin the
session, I received a note back from Elder Asay indicating that Brother Mourik was
actually not in attendance, that he was involved elsewhere, and that he was planning to
attend the dedicatory session in the temple the following day with the servicemen
stakes.
As I stood at the pulpit to welcome the people and to outline the program, I received
unmistakable inspiration once again that I was to announce Peter Mourik as the first
speaker. This was counter to all my instincts, for I had just heard from Elder Asay that
Brother Mourik was definitely not in the temple. Trusting in the inspiration, however, I
announced the choir presentation and the prayer and then indicated that our first
speaker would be Brother Peter Mourik.
As I returned to my seat, I glanced toward Elder Asay; I saw on his face a look of alarm.
He later told me that when I had announced Brother Mourik as the first speaker, he
couldnt believe his ears. He said he knew that I had received his note and that I indeed
had read it, and he couldnt fathom why I would then announce Brother Mourik as a
speaker, knowing he wasnt anywhere in the temple.
During the time all of this was taking place, Peter Mourik was in a meeting at the area
offices in Porthstrasse. As his meeting was going forward, he suddenly turned to Elder
Thomas A. Hawkes Jr., who was then the regional representative, and asked, How fast
can you get me to the temple?
Elder Hawkes, who was known to drive rather rapidly in his small sports car, answered, I
can have you there in 10 minutes! But why do you need to go to the temple?
Brother Mourik admitted he did not know why he needed to go to the temple but that he
knew he had to get there. The two of them set out for the temple immediately.
During the magnificent choir number, I glanced around, thinking that at any moment I
would see Peter Mourik. I did not. Remarkably, however, I felt no alarm. I had a sweet,
undeniable assurance that all would be well.
Brother Mourik entered the front door of the temple just as the opening prayer was
concluding, still not knowing why he was there. As he hurried down the hall, he saw my
image on the monitor and heard me announce, We will now hear from Brother Peter
Mourik.
To the astonishment of Elder Asay, Peter Mourik immediately walked into the room and
took his place at the podium.
Following the session, Brother Mourik and I discussed that which had taken place prior to
his opportunity to speak. I have pondered the inspiration which came that day not only
to me but also to Peter Mourik. That remarkable experience has provided an undeniable

witness to me of the importance of being worthy to receive such inspiration and then
trusting itand following itwhen it comes. I know without question that the Lord
intended for those who were present at that session of the Frankfurt Temple dedication
to hear the powerful, touching testimony of His servant Brother Peter Mourik.
My beloved brothers and sisters, communication with our Father in Heavenincluding
our prayers to Him and His inspiration to usis necessary in order for us to weather the
storms and trials of life. The Lord invites us, Draw near unto me and I will draw near
unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me. As we do so, we will feel His Spirit in
our lives, providing us the desire and the courage to stand strong and firm in
righteousnessto stand in holy places, and be not moved.
7

As the winds of change swirl around us and the moral fiber of society continues to
disintegrate before our very eyes, may we remember the Lords precious promise to
those who trust in Him: Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy
God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right
hand of my righteousness.
9

What a promise! May such be our blessing, I sincerely pray in the sacred name of our
Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2011 General Conference

Until We Meet Again

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May the spirit we have felt here be and abide with us as we go about those
things which occupy us each day.
My brothers and sisters, I know you will agree with me that this has been a most
inspiring conference. We have felt the Spirit of the Lord in rich abundance these past two
days as our hearts have been touched and our testimonies of this divine work have been
strengthened. We express thanks to each one who has participated, including those
Brethren offering prayers.
We are all here because we love the Lord and want to serve Him. I testify to you that our
Heavenly Father is mindful of us. I acknowledge His hand in all things.
Once again the music has been wonderful, and I express my personal gratitude and that
of the entire Church to those willing to share with us their talents in this regard.
We express our deep appreciation to those Brethren who have been released during this
conference. They have served faithfully and well and have made significant contributions
to the work of the Lord.

I express profound appreciation to my faithful and dedicated counselors and thank them
publicly for the support and assistance they provide to me. They are truly men of wisdom
and understanding, and their service is invaluable.
I thank my brethren of the Quorum of the Twelve for their most able and untiring service
in the work of the Lord. Likewise I express my gratitude to the members of the Quorums
of the Seventy and to the Presiding Bishopric for their selfless and effective service. I
similarly express my appreciation for the women and men who serve as general auxiliary
officers.
Brothers and sisters, I assure you that our Heavenly Father is mindful of the challenges
we face in the world today. He loves each of us and will bless us as we strive to keep His
commandments and seek Him through prayer.
How blessed we are to have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It provides answers to
the questions concerning where we came from, why we are here, and where we will go
when we depart from this life. It gives meaning and purpose and hope to our lives.
I thank you for the service you so willingly give to one another. We are Gods hands here
on this earth, with a mandate to love and to serve His children.
I thank you for all that you do in your wards and your branches. I express my gratitude
for your willingness to serve in the positions to which you are called, whatever they may
be. Each is important in furthering the work of the Lord.
Conference is now over. As we return to our homes, may we do so safely. May we find all
has been well during our absence. May the spirit we have felt here be and abide with us
as we go about those things which occupy us each day. May we show increased kindness
one toward another. May we ever be found doing the work of the Lord.
May heavens blessings be with you. May your homes be filled with harmony and love.
May you constantly nourish your testimonies, that they might be a protection for you
against the adversary.
As your humble servant, I desire with all my heart to do Gods will and to serve Him and
to serve you.
I love you; I pray for you. I would ask once again that you would remember me and all
the General Authorities in your prayers. We are one with you in moving forward this
marvelous work. I testify to you that we are all in this together and that every man,
woman, and child has a part to play. May God give us the strength and the ability and
the determination to play our part well.
I bear my testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He
guides and directs His Church here upon the earth. I leave with you my witness and my
testimony that God our Eternal Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He
is personal and real. May we realize and understand how close to us He is willing to
come, how far He is willing to go to help us, how much He loves us, and how much He
does and is willing to do for us.
May He bless you. May His promised peace be with you now and always.

I say farewell to you until we meet again in six months time, and I do so in the name of
Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, amen.

April 2012 General Conference

Believe, Obey, Endure

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Believe that remaining strong and faithful to the truths of the gospel is of
utmost importance. I testify that it is.
My dear young sisters, the responsibility to address you is humbling. I pray for divine
help, that I may be made equal to such an opportunity.
A mere 20 years ago you had not yet commenced your journey through mortality. You
were still in your heavenly home. There you were among those who loved you and were
concerned for your eternal well-being. Eventually, earth life became essential to your
progress. Farewells were no doubt spoken, and expressions of confidence given. You
gained bodies and became mortal, cut off from the presence of your Heavenly Father.
A joyous welcome, however, awaited you here on earth. Those first years were precious,
special years. Satan had no power to tempt you, for you had not yet become
accountable. You were innocent before God.
Soon you entered that period some have labeled the terrible teens. I prefer the terrific
teens. What a time of opportunity, a season of growth, a semester of development
marked by the acquisition of knowledge and the quest for truth.
No one has described the teenage years as being easy. They are often years of
insecurity, of feeling as though you just dont measure up, of trying to find your place
with your peers, of trying to fit in. This is a time when you are becoming more
independentand perhaps desire more freedom than your parents are willing to give you
right now. They are also prime years when Satan will tempt you and will do his utmost to
entice you from the path which will lead you back to that heavenly home from which you
came and back to your loved ones there and back to your Heavenly Father.
The world around you is not equipped to provide the help you need to make it through
this often-treacherous journey. So many in our society today seem to have slipped from
the moorings of safety and drifted from the harbor of peace.
Permissiveness, immorality, pornography, drugs, the power of peer pressureall these
and morecause many to be tossed about on a sea of sin and crushed on the jagged
reefs of lost opportunities, forfeited blessings, and shattered dreams.

Is there a way to safety? Is there an escape from threatened destruction? The answer is
a resounding yes! I counsel you to look to the lighthouse of the Lord. I have said it
before; I will say it again: there is no fog so dense, no night so dark, no gale so strong, no
mariner so lost but what the lighthouse of the Lord can rescue. It beckons through the
storms of life. It calls, This way to safety. This way to home. It sends forth signals of
light easily seen and never failing. If followed, those signals will guide you back to your
heavenly home.
I wish to talk with you tonight about three essential signals from the Lords lighthouse
which will help you to return to that Father who eagerly awaits your triumphant
homecoming. Those three signals are believe, obey, and endure.
First, I mention a signal which is basic and essential: believe. Believe that you are a
daughter of Heavenly Father, that He loves you, and that you are here for a glorious
purposeto gain your eternal salvation. Believe that remaining strong and faithful to the
truths of the gospel is of utmost importance. I testify that it is!
My young friends, believe in the words you say each week as you recite the Young
Women theme. Think about the meaning of those words. There is truth there. Strive
always to live the values which are set forth. Believe, as your theme states, that if you
accept and act upon those values, you will be prepared to strengthen your home and
your family, to make and keep sacred covenants, to receive the ordinances of the
temple, and to eventually enjoy the blessings of exaltation. These are beautiful gospel
truths, and by following them, you will be happier throughout your life here and hereafter
than you will be if you disregard them.
Most of you were taught the truths of the gospel from the time you were a toddler. You
were taught by loving parents and caring teachers. The truths they imparted to you
helped you gain a testimony; you believed what you were taught. Although that
testimony can continue to be fed spiritually and to grow as you study, as you pray for
guidance, and as you attend your Church meetings each week, it is up to you to keep
that testimony alive. Satan will try with all his might to destroy it. Throughout your entire
life you will need to nurture it. As with the flame of a brightly burning fire, your testimony
if not continually fedwill fade to glowing embers and then cool completely. You must
not let this happen.
Besides attending your Sunday meetings and your weeknight activities, when you have
the chance to be involved in seminary, whether in the early morning or in released-time
classes, take advantage of that opportunity. Many of you are attending seminary now. As
with anything in life, much of what you take from your seminary experience depends on
your attitude and your willingness to be taught. May your attitude be one of humility and
a desire to learn. How grateful I am for the opportunity I had as a teenager to attend
early-morning seminary, for it played a vital role in my development and the
development of my testimony. Seminary can change lives.
Some years ago I was on a board of directors with a fine man who had been extremely
successful in life. I was impressed with his integrity and his loyalty to the Church. I
learned that he had gained a testimony and had joined the Church because of seminary.
When he married, his wife had been a lifelong member of the Church. He belonged to no
church. Through the years and despite her efforts, he showed no interest in attending
church with his wife and children. And then he began driving two of his daughters to

early-morning seminary. He would remain in the car while they had their class, and then
he would drive them to school. One day it was raining, and one of his daughters said,
Come in, Dad. You can sit in the hall. He accepted the invitation. The door to the
classroom was open, and he began to listen. His heart was touched. For the rest of that
school year, he attended seminary with his daughters, which led eventually to his
membership and a lifetime of activity in the Church. Let seminary help build and
strengthen your testimony.
There will be times when you will face challenges which might jeopardize your testimony,
or you may neglect it as you pursue other interests. I plead with you to keep it strong. It
is your responsibility, and yours alone, to keep its flame burning brightly. Effort is
required, but it is effort you will never, ever regret. Im reminded of the words of a song
written by Julie de Azevedo Hanks. Referring to her testimony, she wrote:
Through the winds of change
Encircled by the clouds of pain
I guard it with my life
I need the warmthI need the light
Though the storm will rage
I stand against the pounding rain
I remain
A keeper of the flame. 1
May you believe and then may you keep the flame of your testimony burning brightly,
come what may.
Next, young women, may you obey. Obey your parents. Obey the laws of God. They are
given to us by a loving Heavenly Father. When they are obeyed, our lives will be more
fulfilling, less complicated. Our challenges and problems will be easier to bear. We will
receive the Lords promised blessings. He has said, The Lord requireth the heart and a
willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these
last days. 2
You have but one life to live. Keep it as free from trouble as you can. You will be tempted,
sometimes by individuals you had thought friends.
Some years ago I spoke to a Mia Maid adviser who told me of an experience she had with
one of the young women in her class. This young woman had been tempted time and
time again to leave the pathway of truth and follow the detour of sin. Through the
constant persuasion of some of her friends at school, she had finally agreed to follow
such a detour. The plan was set: she would tell her parents she was going to her activity
night for Young Women. She planned, however, to be there only long enough for her
girlfriends and their dates to pick her up. They would then attend a party where alcoholic
beverages would be consumed and where the behavior would be in complete violation of
what this young woman knew was right.
The teacher had prayed for inspiration in helping all her girls but especially this
particular young woman, who seemed so uncertain about her commitment to the gospel.
The teacher had received inspiration that night to abandon what she had previously
planned and to speak to the girls about remaining morally clean. As she began sharing
her thoughts and feelings, the young woman in question checked her watch often to

make sure she didnt miss her rendezvous with her friends. However, as the discussion
progressed, her heart was touched, her conscience awakened, and her determination
renewed. When it came, she ignored the repeated sound of the automobile horn
summoning her. She remained throughout the evening with her teacher and the other
girls in the class. The temptation to detour from Gods approved way had been averted.
Satan had been frustrated. The young woman remained after the others had left in order
to thank her teacher for the lesson and to let her know how it had helped her avoid what
might have been a tragic outcome. A teachers prayer had been answered.
I subsequently learned that because she had made her decision not to go with her
friends that nightsome of the most popular girls and boys at schoolthe young woman
was shunned by them and for many months had no friends at school. They couldnt
accept that she was unwilling to do the things they did. It was an extremely difficult and
lonely period for her, but she remained steadfast and eventually gained friends who
shared her standards. Now, several years later, she has a temple marriage and four
beautiful children. How different her life could have been. Our decisions determine our
destiny.
Precious young women, make every decision you contemplate pass this test: What does
it do to me? What does it do for me? And let your code of conduct emphasize not What
will others think? but rather What will I think of myself? Be influenced by that still,
small voice. Remember that one with authority placed his hands on your head at the
time of your confirmation and said, Receive the Holy Ghost. Open your hearts, even
your very souls, to the sound of that special voice which testifies of truth. As the prophet
Isaiah promised, Thine ears shall hear a word saying, This is the way, walk ye in it. 3
The tenor of our times is permissiveness. Magazines and television shows portray the
stars of the movie screen, the heroes of the athletic fieldthose whom many young
people long to emulateas disregarding the laws of God and flaunting sinful practices,
seemingly with no ill effect. Dont you believe it! There is a time of reckoningeven a
balancing of the ledger. Every Cinderella has her midnightif not in this life, then in the
next. Judgment Day will come for all. Are you prepared? Are you pleased with your own
performance?
If any has stumbled in her journey, I promise you that there is a way back. The process is
called repentance. Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. Though the
path is difficult, the promise is real. Said the Lord: Though your sins be as scarlet, they
shall be as white as snow. 4 And I will remember [them] no more. 5
My beloved young sisters, you have the precious gift of agency. I plead with you to
choose to obey.
Finally, may you endure. What does it mean to endure? I love this definition: to withstand
with courage. Courage may be necessary for you to believe; it will at times be necessary
as you obey. It will most certainly be required as you endure until that day when you will
leave this mortal existence.
I have spoken over the years with many individuals who have told me, I have so many
problems, such real concerns. Im overwhelmed with the challenges of life. What can I
do? I have offered to them, and I now offer to you, this specific suggestion: seek
heavenly guidance one day at a time. Life by the yard is hard; by the inch its a cinch.

Each of us can be true for just one dayand then one more and then one more after that
until weve lived a lifetime guided by the Spirit, a lifetime close to the Lord, a lifetime
of good deeds and righteousness. The Savior promised, Look unto me, and endure to
the end, and ye shall live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal life. 6
For this purpose have you come into mortality, my young friends. There is nothing more
important than the goal you strive to attaineven eternal life in the kingdom of your
Father.
You are precious, precious daughters of our Heavenly Father sent to earth at this day and
time for a purpose. You have been withheld until this very hour. Wonderful, glorious
things are in store for you if you will only believe, obey, and endure. May this be your
blessing, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, amen.

April 2012 General Conference

As We Gather Once Again

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Our Heavenly Father is mindful of each of us and our needs. May we be
filled with His Spirit as we partake of the proceedings of this conference.
My beloved brothers and sisters, as we gather once again in a general conference of the
Church, I welcome you and express my love to you. We meet each six months to
strengthen one another, to extend encouragement, to provide comfort, to build faith. We
are here to learn. Some of you may be seeking answers to questions and challenges you
are experiencing in your life. Some are struggling with disappointments or losses. Each
can be enlightened and uplifted and comforted as the Spirit of the Lord is felt.
Should there be changes which need to be made in your life, may you find the incentive
and the courage to do so as you listen to the inspired words which will be spoken. May
each of us resolve anew to live so that we are worthy sons and daughters of our
Heavenly Father. May we continue to oppose evil wherever it is found.
How blessed we are to have come to earth at such a time as thisa marvelous time in
the long history of the world. We cant all be together under one roof, but we now have
the ability to partake of the proceedings of this conference through the wonders of
television, radio, cable, satellite transmission, and the Interneteven on mobile devices.
We come together as one, speaking many languages, living in many lands, but all of one
faith and one doctrine and one purpose.
From a small beginning 182 years ago, our presence is now felt throughout the world.
This great cause in which we are engaged will continue to go forth, changing and
blessing lives as it does so. No cause, no force in the entire world can stop the work of

God. Despite what comes, this great cause will go forward. You recall the prophetic words
of the Prophet Joseph Smith: No unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing;
persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may
defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has
penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in
every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah shall
say the work is done.1
There is much that is difficult and challenging in the world today, my brothers and
sisters, but there is also much that is good and uplifting. As we declare in our thirteenth
article of faith, If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we
seek after these things. May we ever continue to do so.
I thank you for your faith and devotion to the gospel. I thank you for the love and care
you show one to another. I thank you for the service you provide in your wards and
branches and in your stakes and districts. It is such service that enables the Lord to
accomplish many of His purposes here upon the earth.
I express my thanks to you for your kindnesses to me wherever I go. I thank you for your
prayers in my behalf. I have felt those prayers and am most grateful for them.
Now, my brothers and sisters, we have come to be instructed and inspired. Many
messages will be shared during the next two days. I can assure you that those men and
women who will address you have sought heavens help and direction as they have
prepared their messages. They have been inspired concerning that which they will share
with us.
Our Heavenly Father is mindful of each of us and our needs. May we be filled with His
Spirit as we partake of the proceedings of this conference. This is my sincere prayer in
the sacred name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2012 General Conference

Willing and Worthy to Serve

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Miracles are everywhere to be found when the priesthood is understood, its
power is honored and used properly, and faith is exerted.
My beloved brethren, how good it is to meet with you once again. Whenever I attend the
general priesthood meeting, I reflect on the teachings of some of Gods noble leaders
who have spoken in the general priesthood meetings of the Church. Many have passed
to their eternal reward, and yet from the brilliance of their minds, from the depths of

their souls, and from the warmth of their hearts, they have given us inspired direction. I
share with you tonight some of their teachings concerning the priesthood.
From the Prophet Joseph Smith: Priesthood is an everlasting principle, and existed with
God from eternity, and will to eternity, without beginning of days or end of years.1
From the words of President Wilford Woodruff, we learn: The Holy Priesthood is the
channel through which God communicates and deals with man upon the earth; and the
heavenly messengers that have visited the earth to communicate with man are men who
held and honored the priesthood while in the flesh; and everything that God has caused
to be done for the salvation of man, from the coming of man upon the earth to the
redemption of the world, has been and will be by virtue of the everlasting priesthood.2
President Joseph F. Smith further clarified: The priesthood is the power of God
delegated to man by which man can act in the earth for the salvation of the human
family, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost, and act legitimately;
not assuming that authority, nor borrowing it from generations that are dead and gone,
but authority that has been given in this day in which we live by ministering angels and
spirits from above, direct from the presence of Almighty God.3
And finally from President John Taylor: What is priesthood? It is the government of
God, whether on the earth or in the heavens, for it is by that power, agency, or principle
that all things are governed on the earth and in the heavens, and by that power that all
things are upheld and sustained. It governs all thingsit directs all thingsit sustains all
thingsand has to do with all things that God and truth are associated with.4
How blessed we are to be here in these last days, when the priesthood of God is upon
the earth. How privileged we are to bear that priesthood. The priesthood is not so much
a gift as it is a commission to serve, a privilege to lift, and an opportunity to bless the
lives of others.
With these opportunities come responsibilities and duties. I love and cherish the noble
word duty and all that it implies.
In one capacity or another, in one setting or another, I have been attending priesthood
meetings for the past 72 yearssince I was ordained a deacon at the age of 12. Time
certainly marches on. Duty keeps cadence with that march. Duty does not dim nor
diminish. Catastrophic conflicts come and go, but the war waged for the souls of men
continues without abatement. Like a clarion call comes the word of the Lord to you, to
me, and to priesthood holders everywhere: Wherefore, now let every man learn his
duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.5
The call of duty came to Adam, to Noah, to Abraham, to Moses, to Samuel, to David. It
came to the Prophet Joseph Smith and to each of his successors. The call of duty came to
the boy Nephi when he was instructed by the Lord, through his father Lehi, to return to
Jerusalem with his brothers to obtain the brass plates from Laban. Nephis brothers
murmured, saying it was a hard thing which had been asked of them. What was Nephis
response? Said he, I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I
know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall
prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth
them.6

When that same call comes to you and to me, what will be our response? Will we
murmur, as did Laman and Lemuel, and say, This is a hard thing required of us? 7 Or will
we, with Nephi, individually declare, I will go. I will do? Will we be willing to serve and
to obey?
At times the wisdom of God appears as being foolish or just too difficult, but one of the
greatest and most valuable lessons we can learn in mortality is that when God speaks
and a man obeys, that man will always be right.
When I think of the word duty and how performing our duty can enrich our lives and the
lives of others, I recall the words penned by a renowned poet and author:
I slept and dreamt
That life was joy
I awoke and saw
That life was duty
I acted and behold
Duty was joy.8
Robert Louis Stevenson put it another way. Said he, I know what pleasure is, for I have
done good work.9
As we perform our duties and exercise our priesthood, we will find true joy. We will
experience the satisfaction of having completed our tasks.
We have been taught the specific duties of the priesthood which we hold, whether it be
the Aaronic or the Melchizedek Priesthood. I urge you to contemplate those duties and
then do all within your power to fulfill them. In order to do so, each must be worthy. Let
us have ready hands, clean hands, and willing hands, that we may participate in
providing what our Heavenly Father would have others receive from Him. If we are not
worthy, it is possible to lose the power of the priesthood; and if we lose it, we have lost
the essence of exaltation. Let us be worthy to serve.
President Harold B. Lee, one of the great teachers in the Church, said: When one
becomes a holder of the priesthood, he becomes an agent of the Lord. He should think of
his calling as though he were on the Lords errand.10
During World War II, in the early part of 1944, an experience involving the priesthood
took place as United States marines were taking Kwajalein Atoll, part of the Marshall
Islands and located in the Pacific Ocean about midway between Australia and Hawaii.
What took place in this regard was related by a correspondentnot a member of the
Churchwho worked for a newspaper in Hawaii. In the 1944 newspaper article he wrote
following the experience, he explained that he and other correspondents were in the
second wave behind the marines at Kwajalein Atoll. As they advanced, they noticed a
young marine floating facedown in the water, obviously badly wounded. The shallow
water around him was red with his blood. And then they noticed another marine moving
toward his wounded comrade. The second marine was also wounded, with his left arm
hanging helplessly by his side. He lifted up the head of the one who was floating in the
water in order to keep him from drowning. In a panicky voice he called for help. The
correspondents looked again at the boy he was supporting and called back, Son, there
is nothing we can do for this boy.

Then, wrote the correspondent, I saw something that I had never seen before. This
boy, badly wounded himself, made his way to the shore with the seemingly lifeless body
of his fellow marine. He put the head of his companion on his knee. What a picture
that wasthese two mortally wounded boysboth clean, wonderful-looking young
men, even in their distressing situation. And the one boy bowed his head over the other
and said, I command you, in the name of Jesus Christ and by the power of the
priesthood, to remain alive until I can get medical help. The correspondent concluded
his article: The three of us [the two marines and I] are here in the hospital. The doctors
dont know [how they made it alive], but I know.11
Miracles are everywhere to be found when the priesthood is understood, its power is
honored and used properly, and faith is exerted. When faith replaces doubt, when
selfless service eliminates selfish striving, the power of God brings to pass His purposes.
The call of duty can come quietly as we who hold the priesthood respond to the
assignments we receive. President George Albert Smith, that modest but effective
leader, declared, It is your duty first of all to learn what the Lord wants and then by the
power and strength of His holy Priesthood to [so] magnify your calling in the presence of
your fellows that the people will be glad to follow you.12
Such a call of dutya much less dramatic call but one which nonetheless helped to save
a soulcame to me in 1950 when I was a newly called bishop. My responsibilities as a
bishop were many and varied, and I tried to the best of my ability to do all that was
required of me. The United States was engaged in a different war by then. Because many
of our members were serving in the armed services, an assignment came from Church
headquarters for all bishops to provide each serviceman a subscription to the Church
News and the Improvement Era, the Churchs magazine at that time. In addition, each
bishop was asked to write a personal, monthly letter to each serviceman from his ward.
Our ward had 23 men in uniform. The priesthood quorums, with effort, supplied the funds
for the subscriptions to the publications. I undertook the task, even the duty, to write 23
personal letters each month. After all these years I still have copies of many of my letters
and the responses received. Tears come easily when these letters are reread. It is a joy
to learn again of a soldiers pledge to live the gospel, a sailors decision to keep faith
with his family.
One evening I handed to a sister in the ward the stack of 23 letters for the current
month. Her assignment was to handle the mailing and to maintain the constantly
changing address list. She glanced at one envelope and, with a smile, asked, Bishop,
dont you ever get discouraged? Here is another letter to Brother Bryson. This is the 17th
letter you have sent to him without a reply.
I responded, Well, maybe this will be the month. As it turned out, that was the month.
For the first time, he responded to my letter. His reply is a keepsake, a treasure. He was
serving far away on a distant shore, isolated, homesick, alone. He wrote, Dear Bishop, I
aint much at writin letters. (I could have told him that several months earlier.) His
letter continued, Thank you for the Church News and magazines, but most of all thank
you for the personal letters. I have turned over a new leaf. I have been ordained a priest
in the Aaronic Priesthood. My heart is full. I am a happy man.
Brother Bryson was no happier than was his bishop. I had learned the practical
application of the adage Do [your] duty; that is best; leave unto [the] Lord the rest.13

Years later, while attending the Salt Lake Cottonwood Stake when James E. Faust served
as its president, I related that account in an effort to encourage attention to our
servicemen. After the meeting, a fine-looking young man came forward. He took my
hand in his and asked, Bishop Monson, do you remember me?
I suddenly realized who he was. Brother Bryson! I exclaimed. How are you? What are
you doing in the Church?
With warmth and obvious pride, he responded, Im fine. I serve in the presidency of my
elders quorum. Thank you again for your concern for me and the personal letters which
you sent and which I treasure.
Brethren, the world is in need of our help. Are we doing all we should? Do we remember
the words of President John Taylor: If you do not magnify your callings, God will hold you
responsible for those whom you might have saved had you done your duty?14 There are
feet to steady, hands to grasp, minds to encourage, hearts to inspire, and souls to save.
The blessings of eternity await you. Yours is the privilege to be not spectators but
participants on the stage of priesthood service. Let us hearken to the stirring reminder
found in the Epistle of James: Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving
your own selves.15
Let us learn and contemplate our duty. Let us be willing and worthy to serve. Let us in
the performance of our duty follow in the footsteps of the Master. As you and I walk the
pathway Jesus walked, we will discover He is more than the babe in Bethlehem, more
than the carpenters son, more than the greatest teacher ever to live. We will come to
know Him as the Son of God, our Savior and our Redeemer. When to Him came the call of
duty, He answered, Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever.16 May each
of us do likewise, I pray in His holy name, the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord, amen.

April 2012 General Conference

The Race of Life

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where do we go after this life?
No longer need these universal questions remain unanswered.
My beloved brothers and sisters, this morning I wish to speak to you of eternal truths
those truths which will enrich our lives and see us safely home.
Everywhere people are in a hurry. Jet-powered aircraft speed their precious human cargo
across broad continents and vast oceans so that business meetings might be attended,
obligations met, vacations enjoyed, or families visited. Roadways everywhereincluding

freeways, thruways, and motorwayscarry millions of automobiles, occupied by more

millions of people, in a seemingly endless stream and for a multitude of reasons as we
rush about the business of each day.
In this fast-paced life, do we ever pause for moments of meditationeven thoughts of
timeless truths?
When compared to eternal verities, most of the questions and concerns of daily living are
really rather trivial. What should we have for dinner? What color should we paint the
living room? Should we sign Johnny up for soccer? These questions and countless others
like them lose their significance when times of crisis arise, when loved ones are hurt or
injured, when sickness enters the house of good health, when lifes candle dims and
darkness threatens. Our thoughts become focused, and we are easily able to determine
what is really important and what is merely trivial.
I recently visited with a woman who has been battling a life-threatening disease for over
two years. She indicated that prior to her illness, her days were filled with activities such
as cleaning her house to perfection and filling it with beautiful furnishings. She visited
her hairdresser twice a week and spent money and time each month adding to her
wardrobe. Her grandchildren were invited to visit infrequently, for she was always
concerned that what she considered her precious possessions might be broken or
otherwise ruined by tiny and careless hands.
And then she received the shocking news that her mortal life was in jeopardy and that
she might have very limited time left here. She said that at the moment she heard the
doctors diagnosis, she knew immediately that she would spend whatever time she had
remaining with her family and friends and with the gospel at the center of her life, for
these represented what was most precious to her.
Such moments of clarity come to all of us at one time or another, although not always
through so dramatic a circumstance. We see clearly what it is that really matters in our
lives and how we should be living.
Said the Savior:
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and
where thieves break through and steal:
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt,
and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.1
In our times of deepest reflection or greatest need, the soul of man reaches heavenward,
seeking a divine response to lifes greatest questions: Where did we come from? Why
are we here? Where do we go after we leave this life?
Answers to these questions are not discovered within the covers of academias textbooks
or by checking the Internet. These questions transcend mortality. They embrace eternity.

Where did we come from? This query is inevitably thought, if not spoken, by every
human being.
The Apostle Paul told the Athenians on Mars Hill that we are the offspring of God.2
Since we know that our physical bodies are the offspring of our mortal parents, we must
probe for the meaning of Pauls statement. The Lord has declared that the spirit and the
body are the soul of man.3 Thus it is the spirit which is the offspring of God. The writer
of Hebrews refers to Him as the Father of spirits.4 The spirits of all men are literally His
begotten sons and daughters.5
We note that inspired poets have, for our contemplation of this subject, written moving
messages and recorded transcendent thoughts. William Wordsworth penned the truth:
Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting:
The soul that rises with us, our lifes Star,
Hath had elsewhere its setting,
And cometh from afar:
Not in entire forgetfulness,
And not in utter nakedness,
But trailing clouds of glory do we come
From God, who is our home:
Heaven lies about us in our infancy!6
Parents ponder their responsibility to teach, to inspire, and to provide guidance,
direction, and example. And while parents ponder, childrenand particularly youthask
the penetrating question, why are we here? Usually it is spoken silently to the soul and
phrased, why am I here?
How grateful we should be that a wise Creator fashioned an earth and placed us here,
with a veil of forgetfulness of our previous existence so that we might experience a time
of testing, an opportunity to prove ourselves in order to qualify for all that God has
prepared for us to receive.
Clearly, one primary purpose of our existence upon the earth is to obtain a body of flesh
and bones. We have also been given the gift of agency. In a thousand ways we are
privileged to choose for ourselves. Here we learn from the hard taskmaster of
experience. We discern between good and evil. We differentiate as to the bitter and the
sweet. We discover that there are consequences attached to our actions.
By obedience to Gods commandments, we can qualify for that house spoken of by
Jesus when He declared: In my Fathers house are many mansions. I go to prepare a
place for you that where I am, there ye may be also.7
Although we come into mortality trailing clouds of glory, life moves relentlessly
forward. Youth follows childhood, and maturity comes ever so imperceptibly. From
experience we learn the need to reach heavenward for assistance as we make our way
along lifes pathway.
God, our Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, have marked the way to perfection. They
beckon us to follow eternal verities and to become perfect, as They are perfect. 8

The Apostle Paul likened life to a race. To the Hebrews he urged, Let us lay aside the
sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before
us.9
In our zeal, let us not overlook the sage counsel from Ecclesiastes: The race is not to the
swift, nor the battle to the strong.10 Actually, the prize belongs to him or her who
endures to the end.
When I reflect on the race of life, I remember another type of race, even from childhood
days. My friends and I would take pocketknives in hand and, from the soft wood of a
willow tree, fashion small toy boats. With a triangular-shaped cotton sail in place, each
would launch his crude craft in the race down the relatively turbulent waters of Utahs
Provo River. We would run along the rivers bank and watch the tiny vessels sometimes
bobbing violently in the swift current and at other times sailing serenely as the water
deepened.
During a particular race we noted that one boat led all the rest toward the appointed
finish line. Suddenly, the current carried it too close to a large whirlpool, and the boat
heaved to its side and capsized. Around and around it was carried, unable to make its
way back into the main current. At last it came to an uneasy rest amid the flotsam and
jetsam that surrounded it, held fast by the tentacles of the grasping green moss.
The toy boats of childhood had no keel for stability, no rudder to provide direction, and
no source of power. Inevitably, their destination was downstreamthe path of least
resistance.
Unlike toy boats, we have been provided divine attributes to guide our journey. We enter
mortality not to float with the moving currents of life but with the power to think, to
reason, and to achieve.
Our Heavenly Father did not launch us on our eternal voyage without providing the
means whereby we could receive from Him guidance to ensure our safe return. I speak of
prayer. I speak too of the whisperings from that still, small voice; and I do not overlook
the holy scriptures, which contain the word of the Lord and the words of the prophets
provided to us to help us successfully cross the finish line.
At some period in our mortal mission, there appears the faltering step, the wan smile,
the pain of sicknesseven the fading of summer, the approach of autumn, the chill of
winter, and the experience we call death.
Every thoughtful person has asked himself the question best phrased by Job of old: If a
man die, shall he live again?11 Try as we might to put the question out of our thoughts, it
always returns. Death comes to all mankind. It comes to the aged as they walk on
faltering feet. Its summons is heard by those who have scarcely reached midway in lifes
journey. At times it hushes the laughter of little children.
But what of an existence beyond death? Is death the end of all? Robert Blatchford, in his
book God and My Neighbor, attacked with vigor accepted Christian beliefs such as God,
Christ, prayer, and particularly immortality. He boldly asserted that death was the end of
our existence and that no one could prove otherwise. Then a surprising thing happened.
His wall of skepticism suddenly crumbled to dust. He was left exposed and undefended.

Slowly he began to feel his way back to the faith he had ridiculed and abandoned. What
had caused this profound change in his outlook? His wife died. With a broken heart he
went into the room where lay all that was mortal of her. He looked again at the face he
loved so well. Coming out, he said to a friend: It is she, and yet it is not she. Everything
is changed. Something that was there before is taken away. She is not the same. What
can be gone if it be not the soul?
Later he wrote: Death is not what some people imagine. It is only like going into another
room. In that other room we shall find the dear women and men and the sweet
children we have loved and lost.12
My brothers and sisters, we know that death is not the end. This truth has been taught
by living prophets throughout the ages. It is also found in our holy scriptures. In the Book
of Mormon we read specific and comforting words:
Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrectionBehold, it
has been made known unto me by an angel, that the spirits of all men, as soon as they
are departed from this mortal body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or
evil, are taken home to that God who gave them life.
And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are righteous are received
into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace,
where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow.13
After the Savior was crucified and His body had lain in the tomb for three days, the spirit
again entered. The stone was rolled away, and the resurrected Redeemer walked forth,
clothed with an immortal body of flesh and bones.
The answer to Jobs question, If a man die, shall he live again? came when Mary and
others approached the tomb and saw two men in shining garments who spoke to them:
Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen.14
As the result of Christs victory over the grave, we shall all be resurrected. This is the
redemption of the soul. Paul wrote: There are celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial:
but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.15
It is the celestial glory which we seek. It is in the presence of God we desire to dwell. It is
a forever family in which we want membership. Such blessings are earned through a
lifetime of striving, seeking, repenting, and finally succeeding.
Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where do we go after this life? No longer
need these universal questions remain unanswered. From the very depths of my soul and
in all humility, I testify that those things of which I have spoken are true.
Our Heavenly Father rejoices for those who keep His commandments. He is concerned
also for the lost child, the tardy teenager, the wayward youth, the delinquent parent.
Tenderly the Master speaks to these and indeed to all: Come back. Come up. Come in.
Come home. Come unto me.
In one week we will celebrate Easter. Our thoughts will turn to the Saviors life, His death,
and His Resurrection. As His special witness, I testify to you that He lives and that He

awaits our triumphant return. That such a return will be ours, I pray humbly in His holy
nameeven Jesus Christ, our Savior and our Redeemer, amen.

April 2012 General Conference

As We Close This Conference

Thomas S. Monson
President of the Church
May you ponder the truths you have heard, and may they help you to
become even better than you were when conference began.
My heart is full as we come to the close of this glorious conference. We have been so
richly blessed as we have listened to the counsel and testimonies of those who have
spoken to us. I think you will agree with me that we have felt the Spirit of the Lord as our
hearts have been touched and our testimonies strengthened.
Once again we have enjoyed beautiful music, which has enhanced and enriched each
session of conference. I express my gratitude to all who have shared with us their talents
in this regard.
My heartfelt thanks go to each who has spoken to us as well as to those who have
offered prayers at each of the sessions.
There are countless individuals who work either behind the scenes or in less visible
positions each conference. It would not be possible for us to hold these sessions without
their assistance. My thanks go to all of them as well.
I know you join with me in expressing profound gratitude to those brethren and sisters
who have been released during this conference. We will miss them. Their contributions to
the work of the Lord have been enormous and will be felt throughout generations to
come.
We have also sustained, through uplifted hands, brethren and sisters who have been
called to new positions during this conference. We welcome them and want them to
know that we look forward to serving with them in the cause of the Master. They have
been called by inspiration from on high.
We have had unprecedented coverage of this conference, reaching across the continents
and oceans to people everywhere. Though we are far removed from many of you, we feel
of your spirit and your dedication, and we send our love and appreciation to you
wherever you are.

How blessed we are, my brothers and sisters, to have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ
in our lives and in our hearts. It provides answers to lifes greatest questions. It provides
meaning and purpose and hope to our lives.
We live in troubled times. I assure you that our Heavenly Father is mindful of the
challenges we face. He loves each of us and desires to bless us and to help us. May we
call upon Him in prayer, as He admonished when He said, Pray always, and I will pour
out my Spirit upon you, and great shall be your blessingyea, even more than if you
should obtain treasures of earth.1
My dear brothers and sisters, may your homes be filled with love and courtesy and with
the Spirit of the Lord. Love your families. If there are disagreements or contentions
among you, I urge you to settle them now. Said the Savior:
There shall be no disputations among you.
For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is
of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to
contend with anger, one with another.
[But] behold, this is not my doctrine ; but this is my doctrine, that such things should
be done away.2
As your humble servant, I echo the words of King Benjamin in his address to his people
when he said:
I have not commanded you to think that I of myself am more than a mortal man.
But I am like as yourselves, subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind; yet I
have been chosen by the hand of the Lord and have been kept and preserved by his
matchless power, to serve you with all the might, mind and strength which the Lord hath
granted unto me.3
My beloved brothers and sisters, I desire with all my heart to do Gods will and to serve
Him and to serve you.
Now as we leave this conference, I invoke the blessings of heaven upon each of you. May
you who are away from your homes return to them safely. May you ponder the truths you
have heard, and may they help you to become even better than you were when
conference began two days ago.
Until we meet again in six months time, I ask the Lords blessings to be upon you and,
indeed, upon all of us, and I do so in His holy nameeven Jesus Christ, our Lord and
Savioramen.

October 2012 General Conference

Welcome to Conference

By President Thomas S. Monson

May we listen attentively to the messages , that we may feel the Spirit of
the Lord and gain the knowledge He would desire for us.
As far as I can see, every seat is filledexcept for a few right there in the back. There is
room for improvement. This is a courtesy to those who might be just a bit tardy, because
of the traffic, to find a seat when they come.
This is a great dayconference day. We have heard a beautiful choir sing magnificent
music. Every time I hear the choir or hear the organ or hear the piano, I think of my
mother, who said, I love all the acclaim that has been given you, all the degrees you
have obtained, and all the work you have done. My only regret is that you did not stay
with the piano. Thanks, Mother. I wish I had.
How good it is, my brothers and sisters, to welcome you to the 182nd Semiannual
General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Since we met six months ago, three new temples have been dedicated, and one temple
has been rededicated. In May, it was my privilege to dedicate the beautiful Kansas City
Missouri Temple and to attend the cultural celebration associated with it. I will mention
that celebration in greater detail in my remarks tomorrow morning.
In June, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf dedicated the long-awaited temple in Manaus, Brazil,
and in early September, President Henry B. Eyring rededicated the newly refurbished
temple in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a temple which I had the privilege to dedicate nearly
27 years ago. Just two weeks ago, President Boyd K. Packer dedicated the lovely Brigham
City Temple in the hometown where he was born and raised.
As I have indicated previously, no Church-built facility is more important than a temple,
and we are pleased to have 139 temples in operation throughout the world, with 27 more
announced or under construction. We are grateful for these sacred edifices and the
blessings they bring into our lives.
This morning I am pleased to announce two additional temples, which in coming months
and years will be built in the following locations: Tucson, Arizona, and Arequipa, Peru.
Details concerning these temples will be provided in the future as necessary permits and
approvals are obtained.
Brothers and sisters, I now turn to another matternamely, missionary service.
For some time the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have allowed
young men from certain countries to serve at the age of 18 when they are worthy, able,
have graduated from high school, and have expressed a sincere desire to serve. This has
been a country-specific policy and has allowed thousands of young men to serve
honorable missions and also fulfill required military obligations and educational
opportunities.
Our experience with these 18-year-old missionaries has been positive. Their mission
presidents report that they are obedient, faithful, mature, and serve just as competently
as do the older missionaries who serve in the same missions. Their faithfulness,

obedience, and maturity have caused us to desire the same option of earlier missionary
service for all young men, regardless of the country from which they come.
I am pleased to announce that effective immediately all worthy and able young men who
have graduated from high school or its equivalent, regardless of where they live, will
have the option of being recommended for missionary service beginning at the age of
18, instead of age 19. I am not suggesting that all young men willor shouldserve at
this earlier age. Rather, based on individual circumstances as well as upon a
determination by priesthood leaders, this option is now available.
As we have prayerfully pondered the age at which young men may begin their
missionary service, we have also given consideration to the age at which a young
woman might serve. Today I am pleased to announce that able, worthy young women
who have the desire to serve may be recommended for missionary service beginning at
age 19, instead of age 21.
We affirm that missionary work is a priesthood dutyand we encourage all young men
who are worthy and who are physically able and mentally capable to respond to the call
to serve. Many young women also serve, but they are not under the same mandate to
serve as are the young men. We assure the young sisters of the Church, however, that
they make a valuable contribution as missionaries, and we welcome their service.
We continue to need many more senior couples. As your circumstances allow, as you are
eligible for retirement, and as your health permits, I encourage you to make yourselves
available for full-time missionary service. Both husband and wife will have a greater joy
as they together serve our Fathers children.
Now, my brothers and sisters, may we listen attentively to the messages which will be
presented during the next two days, that we may feel the Spirit of the Lord and gain the
knowledge He would desire for us. That this may be our experience I pray in the name of
Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2012 General Conference

See Others as They May Become

By President Thomas S. Monson

We must develop the capacity to see men not as they are at present but as
they may become.
My dear brethren, twice each year this magnificent Conference Center is filled to
capacity with the priesthood of God as we gather to hear messages of inspiration. There
is a marvelous spirit which permeates the general priesthood meeting of the Church.
This spirit emanates from the Conference Center and enters every building where the
sons of God assemble. We have surely felt that spirit tonight.
Some years ago, before this beautiful Conference Center was built, a visitor to Temple
Square in Salt Lake City attended a general conference session in the Tabernacle. He

listened to the messages of the Brethren. He paid attention to the prayers. He heard the
beautiful music by the Tabernacle Choir. He marveled at the grandeur of the magnificent
Tabernacle organ. When the meeting had ended he was heard to say, I would give
everything I possess if I knew that what those speakers said today was true. In essence
he was saying, I wish that I had a testimony of the gospel.
There is absolutely nothing in this world that will provide more comfort and happiness
than a testimony of the truth. Although to varying degrees, I believe every man or young
man here tonight has a testimony. If you feel that you do not yet have the depth of
testimony you would wish, I admonish you to work to achieve such a testimony. If it is
strong and deep, labor to keep it that way. How blessed we are to have a knowledge of
the truth.
My message tonight, brethren, is that there are countless individuals who have little or
no testimony right now, those who could and would receive such a testimony if we would
be willing to make the effort to share ours and to help them change. In some instances
we can provide the incentive for change. I mention first those who are members but who
are not at present fully committed to the gospel.
Many years ago, at an area conference held in Helsinki, Finland, I heard a powerful,
memorable, and motivating message given in a mothers and daughters session. I have
not forgotten that message, though nearly 40 years have passed since I heard it. Among
many truths the speaker discussed, she said that a woman needs to be told she is
beautiful. She needs to be told she is valued. She needs to be told she is worthwhile.
Brethren, I know that men are very much like women in this regard. We need to be told
that we amount to something, that we are capable and worthwhile. We need to be given
a chance to serve. For those members who have slipped from activity or who hold back
and remain noncommittal, we can prayerfully seek for some way to reach them. Asking
them to serve in some capacity may just be the incentive they need to return to full
activity. But those leaders who could help in this regard are sometimes reluctant to do
so. We need to bear in mind that people can change. They can put behind them bad
habits. They can repent from transgressions. They can bear the priesthood worthily. And
they can serve the Lord diligently. May I provide a few illustrations.
When I first became a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, I had the
opportunity to accompany President N. Eldon Tanner, a counselor to President David O.
McKay, to a stake conference in Alberta, Canada. During the meeting, the stake
president read the names of four brethren who had qualified to be ordained elders.
These were men whom President Tanner knew, for at one time he had lived in that area.
But President Tanner knew and remembered them as they once were and did not know
that they had turned their lives around and had fully qualified to become elders.
The stake president read the name of the first man and asked him to stand. President
Tanner whispered to me, Look at him. I never thought he would make it. The stake
president read the name of the second man, and he stood. President Tanner nudged me
again and reported his astonishment. And so it was with all four of the brethren.
After the meeting, President Tanner and I had the opportunity to congratulate these four
brethren. They had demonstrated that men can change.

During the 1940s and 1950s, an American prison warden, Clinton Duffy, was well known
for his efforts to rehabilitate the men in his prison. Said one critic, You should know that
leopards dont change their spots!
Replied Warden Duffy, You should know I dont work with leopards. I work with men, and
men change every day.1
Many years ago it was my opportunity to serve as president of the Canadian Mission.
There we had a branch with very limited priesthood. We always had a missionary
presiding over the branch. I received a strong impression that we needed to have a
member of the branch preside there.
We had one adult member in the branch who was a deacon in the Aaronic Priesthood but
who didnt attend or participate enough to be advanced in the priesthood. I felt inspired
to call him as the branch president. I shall always remember the day that I had an
interview with him. I told him that the Lord had inspired me to call him to be the
president of the branch. After much protest on his part, and much encouragement on the
part of his wife, he indicated that he would serve. I ordained him a priest.
It was the beginning of a new day for that man. His life was quickly put in order, and he
assured me that he would live the commandments as he was expected to live them. In a
few months he was ordained an elder. He and his wife and family eventually went to the
temple and were sealed. Their children served missions and married in the house of the
Lord.
Sometimes letting our brethren know they are needed and valued can help them take
that step into commitment and full activity. This can be true of priesthood holders
regardless of age. It is our responsibility to give them opportunities to live as they
should. We can help them to overcome their shortcomings. We must develop the
capacity to see men not as they are at present but as they may become when they
receive testimonies of the gospel of Christ.
I once attended a meeting in Leadville, Colorado. Leadville is situated at an altitude of
over 10,000 feet (3,000 m). I remember that particular meeting because of the high
altitude, but I also remember it for what took place that evening. There were just a small
number of priesthood holders present. As with the branch in the Canadian Mission, that
branch was presided over by a missionary and always had been.
That night we had a lovely meeting, but as we were singing the closing song, the
inspiration came to me that there ought to be a local branch president presiding. I turned
to the mission president and asked, Isnt there someone here who could presidea
local man?
He replied, I dont know of one.
During the singing of that song, I looked carefully at the men who were seated on the
first three rows. My attention seemed to be focused on one of the brethren. I said to the
mission president, Could he serve as the branch president?
He replied, I dont know. Perhaps he could.

I said, President, Ill take him into the other room and interview him. You speak after the
closing song until we return.
When the two of us walked back in the room, the mission president concluded his
testimony. I presented the name of the brother to be the new branch president. From
that day forward, Leadville, Colorado, had a local member leading the unit there.
The same principle, brethren, applies to those who are not yet members. We should
develop the capacity to see men not as they are but as they can become when they are
members of the Church, when they have a testimony of the gospel, and when their lives
are in harmony with its teachings.
Back in the year 1961, a worldwide conference was held for mission presidents, and
every mission president in the Church was brought to Salt Lake City for those meetings. I
came to Salt Lake City from my mission in Toronto, Canada.
In one particular meeting, N. Eldon Tanner, who was then an Assistant to the Quorum of
the Twelve, had just returned from his initial experience of presiding over the missions in
Great Britain and western Europe. He told of a missionary who had been the most
successful missionary whom he had met in all of the interviews he had conducted. He
said that as he interviewed that missionary, he said to him, I suppose that all of the
people whom you baptized came into the Church by way of referrals.
The young man answered, No, we found them all by tracting.
Brother Tanner asked him what was different about his approachwhy he had such
phenomenal success when others didnt. The young man said that he attempted to
baptize every person whom he met. He said that if he knocked on the door and saw a
man smoking a cigar and dressed in old clothes and seemingly uninterested in anything
particularly religionthe missionary would picture in his own mind what that man
would look like under a different set of circumstances. In his mind he would look at him
as clean-shaven and wearing a white shirt and white trousers. And the missionary could
see himself leading that man into the waters of baptism. He said, When I look at
someone that way, I have the capacity to bear my testimony to him in a way that can
touch his heart.
We have the responsibility to look at our friends, our associates, our neighbors this way.
Again, we have the responsibility to see individuals not as they are but rather as they
can become. I would plead with you to think of them in this way.
Brethren, the Lord told us something about the importance of this priesthood that we
hold. He told us that we receive it with an oath and a covenant. He gave unto us the
instruction that we must be faithful and true in all that we receive, and that we have the
responsibility to keep this covenant even unto the end. And then all that the Father has
shall be given unto us.2
Courage is the word we need to hear and hold near our heartscourage to turn our
backs on temptation, courage to lift up our voices in testimony to all whom we meet,
remembering that everyone must have an opportunity to hear the message. It is not an
easy thing for most to do this. But we can come to believe in the words of Paul to
Timothy:

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound
mind.
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.3
In May of 1974, I was with Brother John H. Groberg in the Tongan islands. We had an
appointment to visit the king of Tonga, and we met with him in a formal session. We
exchanged the normal pleasantries. However, before we left, John Groberg said
something that was out of the ordinary. He said, Your Majesty, you should really become
a Mormon and your subjects as well, for then your problems and their problems would
largely be solved.
The king smiled broadly and answered, John Groberg, perhaps youre right.
I thought of the Apostle Paul before Agrippa. I thought of Agrippas response to Pauls
testimony: Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.4 Brother Groberg had the
courage to bear his testimony to a king.
Tonight there are many thousands of our number who are serving the Lord full-time as
His missionaries. In response to a call, they have left behind home, family, friends, and
school and have gone forward to serve. Those who dont understand ask the question,
Why do they respond so readily and willingly give so much?
Our missionaries could well answer in the words of Paul, that peerless missionary of an
earlier day: For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is
laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!5
The holy scriptures contain no proclamation more relevant, no responsibility more
binding, no instruction more direct than the injunction given by the resurrected Lord as
He appeared in Galilee to the eleven disciples. Said He:
All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am
with you alway, even unto the end of the world.6
This divine command, coupled with its glorious promise, is our watchword today, as it
was in the meridian of time. Missionary work is an identifying feature of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Always has it been; ever shall it be. As the Prophet
Joseph Smith declared, After all that has been said, the greatest and most important
duty is to preach the Gospel.7
Within two short years, all of the full-time missionaries currently serving in this royal
army of God will have concluded their full-time labors and will have returned to their
homes and loved ones. Their replacements are found tonight in the ranks of the Aaronic
Priesthood of the Church. Young men, are you ready to respond? Are you willing to work?
Are you prepared to serve?

President John Taylor summed up the requirements: The kind of men we want as
bearers of this gospel message are men who have faith in God; men who have faith in
their religion; men who honor their priesthood; men full of the Holy Ghost and the
power of God[;] men of honor, integrity, virtue and purity.8
Brethren, to each of us comes the mandate to share the gospel of Christ. When our lives
comply with Gods own standard, those within our sphere of influence will never speak
the lament, The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. 9
The perfect Shepherd of souls, the missionary who redeemed mankind, gave us His
divine assurance:
If it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and
bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom
of my Father!
And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the
kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto
me!10
Of Him who spoke these words, I declare my personal witness. He is the Son of God, our
Redeemer, and our Savior.
I pray that we will have the courage to extend the hand of fellowship, the tenacity to try
and try again, and the humility needed to seek guidance from our Father as we fulfill our
mandate to share the gospel. The responsibility is upon us, brethren. In the name of
Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2012 General Conference

Consider the Blessings

By President Thomas S. Monson

Our Heavenly Father is aware of our needs and will help us as we call upon
Him for assistance.
My beloved brothers and sisters, this conference marks 49 years since I was sustained,
on October 4, 1963, as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Forty-nine years
is a long time. In many ways, however, the time seems very short since I stood at the
pulpit in the Tabernacle and gave my very first general conference address.
Much has changed since October 4, 1963. We live in a unique time in the worlds history.
We are blessed with so very much. And yet it is sometimes difficult to view the problems
and permissiveness around us and not become discouraged. I have found that, rather
than dwelling on the negative, if we will take a step back and consider the blessings in
our lives, including seemingly small, sometimes overlooked blessings, we can find
greater happiness.

As I have reviewed the past 49 years, I have made some discoveries. One is that
countless experiences I have had were not necessarily those one would consider
extraordinary. In fact, at the time they transpired, they often seemed unremarkable and
even ordinary. And yet, in retrospect, they enriched and blessed livesnot the least of
which was my own. I would recommend this same exercise to younamely, that you
take an inventory of your life and look specifically for the blessings, large and small, you
have received.
Reinforced constantly during my own review of the years has been my knowledge that
our prayers are heard and answered. We are familiar with the truth found in 2 Nephi in
the Book of Mormon: Men are, that they might have joy.1 I testify that much of that joy
comes as we recognize that we can communicate with our Heavenly Father through
prayer and that those prayers will be heard and answeredperhaps not how and when
we expected they would be answered, but they will be answered and by a Heavenly
Father who knows and loves us perfectly and who desires our happiness. Hasnt He
promised us, Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and
give thee answer to thy prayers?2
For the next few minutes allotted to me, I would like to share with you just a tiny
sampling of the experiences I have had wherein prayers were heard and answered and
which, in retrospect, brought blessings into my life as well as the lives of others. My daily
journal, kept over all these years, has helped provide some specifics which I most likely
would not otherwise be able to recount.
In early 1965, I was assigned to attend stake conferences and to hold other meetings
throughout the South Pacific area. This was my first visit to that part of the world, and it
was a time never to be forgotten. Much that was spiritual in nature occurred during this
assignment as I met with leaders, members, and missionaries.
On the weekend of Saturday and Sunday, February 20 and 21, we were in Brisbane,
Australia, to hold regular conference sessions of the Brisbane Stake. During meetings on
Saturday, I was introduced to the district president from an adjoining area. As I shook his
hand, I had a strong impression that I needed to speak with him and to provide counsel,
and so I asked him if he would accompany me to the Sunday morning session the
following day so that this could be accomplished.
Following the Sunday session, we had an opportunity to visit together. We talked of his
many responsibilities as district president. As we did so, I felt impressed to offer him
specific suggestions concerning missionary work and how he and his members could
help the full-time missionaries in their labors in his area. I later learned that this man had
been praying for guidance in this regard. To him our visit was a special witness that his
prayers were heard and answered. This was a seemingly unremarkable meeting but one
which I am convinced was guided by the Spirit and which made a difference in that
district presidents life and administration, in the lives of his members, and in the
success of the missionaries there.
My brothers and sisters, the Lords purposes are often accomplished as we pay heed to
the guidance of the Spirit. I believe that the more we act upon the inspiration and
impressions which come to us, the more the Lord will entrust to us His errands.

I have learned, as I have mentioned in previous messages, never to postpone a

prompting. On one occasion many years ago, I was swimming laps at the old Deseret
Gym in Salt Lake City when I felt the inspiration to go to the University Hospital to visit a
good friend of mine who had lost the use of his lower limbs because of a malignancy and
the surgery which followed. I immediately left the pool, dressed, and was soon on my
way to see this good man.
When I arrived at his room, I found that it was empty. Upon inquiry I learned I would
probably find him in the swimming pool area of the hospital, an area which was used for
physical therapy. Such turned out to be the case. He had guided himself there in his
wheelchair and was the only occupant of the room. He was on the far side of the pool,
near the deep end. I called to him, and he maneuvered his wheelchair over to greet me.
We had an enjoyable visit, and I accompanied him back to his hospital room, where I
gave him a blessing.
I learned later from my friend that he had been utterly despondent that day and had
been contemplating taking his own life. He had prayed for relief but began to feel that
his prayers had gone unanswered. He went to the pool with the thought that this would
be a way to end his miseryby guiding his wheelchair into the deep end of the pool. I
had arrived at a critical moment, in response to what I know was inspiration from on
high.
My friend was able to live many more yearsyears filled with happiness and gratitude.
How pleased I am to have been an instrument in the Lords hands on that critical day at
the swimming pool.
On another occasion, as Sister Monson and I were driving home after visiting friends, I
felt impressed that we should go into towna drive of many milesto pay a visit to an
elderly widow who had once lived in our ward. Her name was Zella Thomas. At the time,
she was a resident in a care center. That early afternoon we found her to be extremely
frail but lying peacefully on her bed.
Zella had long been blind, but she recognized our voices immediately. She asked if I
might give her a blessing, adding that she was prepared to die if the Lord wanted her to
return home. There was a sweet, peaceful spirit in the room, and all of us knew that her
remaining time in mortality would be brief. Zella took me by the hand and said that she
had prayed fervently that I would come to see her and provide her a blessing. I told her
that we had come because of direct inspiration from our Heavenly Father. I kissed her on
the forehead, knowing that I perhaps would not again see her in mortality. Such proved
to be the case, for she passed away the following day. To have been able to provide
some comfort and peace to our sweet Zella was a blessing to her and to me.
The opportunity to be a blessing in the life of another often comes unexpectedly. On one
extremely cold Saturday night during the winter of 198384, Sister Monson and I drove
several miles to the mountain valley of Midway, Utah, where we have a home. The
temperature that night was minus 24 degrees Fahrenheit (31C), and we wanted to
make certain all was well at our home there. We checked and found that it was fine, so
we left to return to Salt Lake City. We barely made it the few miles to the highway before
our car stopped working. We were completely stranded. I have seldom, if ever, been as
cold as we were that night.

Reluctantly we began walking toward the nearest town, the cars whizzing past us. Finally
one car stopped, and a young man offered to help. We eventually found that the diesel
fuel in our gas tank had thickened because of the cold, making it impossible for us to
drive the car. This kind young man drove us back to our Midway home. I attempted to
reimburse him for his services, but he graciously declined. He indicated that he was a
Boy Scout and wanted to do a good turn. I identified myself to him, and he expressed his
appreciation for the privilege to be of help. Assuming that he was about missionary age, I
asked him if he had plans to serve a mission. He indicated he was not certain just what
he wanted to do.
On the following Monday morning, I wrote a letter to this young man and thanked him for
his kindness. In the letter I encouraged him to serve a full-time mission. I enclosed a
copy of one of my books and underscored the chapters on missionary service.
About a week later the young mans mother telephoned and advised that her son was an
outstanding young man but that because of certain influences in his life, his long-held
desire to serve a mission had diminished. She indicated she and his father had fasted
and prayed that his heart would be changed. They had placed his name on the prayer
roll of the Provo Utah Temple. They hoped that somehow, in some way, his heart would
be touched for good and he would return to his desire to fill a mission and to serve the
Lord faithfully. The mother wanted me to know that she looked upon the events of that
cold evening as an answer to their prayers in his behalf. I said, I agree with you.
After several months and more communication with this young man, Sister Monson and I
were overjoyed to attend his missionary farewell prior to his departure for the Canada
Vancouver Mission.
Was it chance that our paths crossed on that cold December night? I do not for one
moment believe so. Rather, I believe our meeting was an answer to a mothers and
fathers heartfelt prayers for the son they cherished.
Again, my brothers and sisters, our Heavenly Father is aware of our needs and will help
us as we call upon Him for assistance. I believe that no concern of ours is too small or
insignificant. The Lord is in the details of our lives.
I should like to conclude by relating one recent experience which had an impact on
hundreds. It occurred at the cultural celebration for the Kansas City Temple, just five
months ago. As with so much that happens in our lives, at the time it seemed to be just
another experience where everything worked out. However, as I learned of the
circumstances associated with the cultural celebration the evening before the temple
was dedicated, I realized that the performance that night was not ordinary. Rather, it was
quite remarkable.
As with all cultural events held in conjunction with temple dedications, the youth in the
Kansas City Missouri Temple District had rehearsed the performance in separate groups
in their own areas. The plan was that they would meet all together in the large rented
municipal center on the Saturday morning of the performance so that they could learn
when and where to enter, where they were to stand, how much space should be between
them and the person next to them, how to exit the main floor, and so forthmany
details which they would have to grasp during the day as those in charge put the various
scenes together so that the final performance would be polished and professional.

There was just one major problem that day. The entire production was dependent on
prerecorded segments that would be shown on the large screen known as a Jumbotron.
These recorded segments were critical to the entire production. They not only tied it all
together, but each televised segment would introduce the next performance. The video
segments provided the framework on which the entire production depended. And the
Jumbotron was not working.
Technicians worked frantically to solve the problem while the youth waited, hundreds of
them, losing precious rehearsal time. The situation began to look impossible.
The writer and director of the celebration, Susan Cooper, later explained: As we moved
from plan A to B to Z, we knew that it wasnt working. As we were looking at the
schedule, we knew that it was going to be beyond us, but we knew that we had one of
the greatest strengths on the floor below3,000 youth. We needed to go down and tell
[them] what was happening and draw upon their faith.3
Just an hour before the audience would begin to enter the center, 3,000 youth knelt on
the floor and prayed together. They prayed that those working on the Jumbotron would
be inspired to know what to do to repair it; they asked their Heavenly Father to make up
for what they themselves could not do because of the shortage of time.
Said one who wrote about it afterward, It was a prayer the youth will never forget, not
because the floor was hard, but because the Spirit melted their bones.4
It was not long before one of the technicians came to tell them that the problem had
been discovered and corrected. He attributed the solution to luck, but all those youth
knew better.
When we entered the municipal center that evening, we had no idea of the difficulties of
the day. Only later did we learn of them. What we witnessed, however, was a beautiful,
polished performanceone of the best I have seen. The youth radiated a glorious,
powerful spirit which was felt by all who were present. They seemed to know just where
to enter, where to stand, and how to interact with all the other performers around them.
When I learned that their rehearsals had been cut short and that many of the numbers
had not been rehearsed by the entire group, I was astonished. No one would have
known. The Lord had indeed made up the difference.
I never cease to be amazed by how the Lord can motivate and direct the length and
breadth of His kingdom and yet have time to provide inspiration concerning one
individualor one cultural celebration or one Jumbotron. The fact that He can, that He
does, is a testimony to me.
My brothers and sisters, the Lord is in all of our lives. He loves us. He wants to bless us.
He wants us to seek His help. As He guides us and directs us and as He hears and
answers our prayers, we will find the happiness here and now that He desires for us. May
we be aware of His blessings in our lives, I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior,
amen.

October 2012 General Conference

God Be with You Till We Meet Again

By President Thomas S. Monson

As we take the messages of the past two days into our hearts and into our
lives, we will be blessed.
My dear brothers and sisters, we have come to the close of another inspiring general
conference. I personally have been spiritually fed and uplifted and know that you too
have felt the special spirit of this conference.
We offer our heartfelt gratitude to all who have participated in any way. The truths of the
gospel have been beautifully taught and reemphasized. As we take the messages of the
past two days into our hearts and into our lives, we will be blessed.
As always, the proceedings of this conference will be available in the coming issues of
the Ensign and the Liahona magazines. I encourage you to read the talks once again and
to ponder the messages contained therein. I have found in my own life that I gain even
more from these inspired sermons when I study them in greater depth.
We have had unprecedented coverage of the conference, reaching across the continents
and the oceans to people everywhere. Though we are far removed from many of you, we
feel of your spirit and send our love and appreciation to you.
To our Brethren who have been released at this conference, may I express the heartfelt
gratitude of all of us for your many years of devoted service. Countless are those who
have been blessed by your contributions to the work of the Lord.
Brothers and sisters, I have just recently celebrated my 85th birthday, and I am grateful
for each year the Lord has granted me. As I reflect upon my lifes experiences, I thank
Him for His many blessings to me. As I mentioned in my message this morning, I have
felt His hand directing my efforts as I have tried earnestly to serve Him and to serve all
of you.
The office of the President of the Church is a demanding one. How grateful I am for my
two faithful counselors, who serve by my side and who are always willing and
exceptionally able to assist in the work which comes to the First Presidency. I express my
gratitude as well for the noble men who comprise the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
They work tirelessly in the cause of the Master, with the members of the Quorums of the
Seventy providing inspired assistance to them.
I wish also to commend you, my brothers and sisters, wherever you are throughout the
world, for all that you do in your wards and branches, your stakes and districts. As you
willingly fulfill callings when you are asked, you are helping to build the kingdom of God
on earth.
May we ever watch over one another, assisting in times of need. Let us not be critical
and judgmental but let us be tolerant, ever emulating the Saviors example of lovingkindness. In that vein, may we willingly serve one another. May we pray for the
inspiration to know of the needs of those around us, and then may we go forward and
provide assistance.

Let us be of good cheer as we go about our lives. Although we live in increasingly

perilous times, the Lord loves us and is mindful of us. He is always on our side as we do
what is right. He will help us in time of need. Difficulties come into our lives, problems we
do not anticipate and which we would never choose. None of us is immune. The purpose
of mortality is to learn and to grow to be more like our Father, and it is often during the
difficult times that we learn the most, as painful as the lessons may be. Our lives can
also be filled with joy as we follow the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Lord admonished, Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. 1 What great
happiness this knowledge should bring to us. He lived for us and He died for us. He paid
the price for our sins. May we emulate His example. May we show our great gratitude to
Him by accepting His sacrifice and living lives that will qualify us to return and one day
live with Him.
As I have mentioned at previous conferences, I thank you for your prayers in my behalf. I
need them; I feel them. We as General Authorities also remember all of you and pray for
our Heavenly Fathers choicest blessings to be with you.
Now, my beloved brothers and sisters, we adjourn for six months. May God be with you
until we meet again at that time. In the name of our Savior and Redeemer, even Jesus
Christ the Lord, amen.

April 2013 General Conference

Welcome to Conference

By President Thomas S. Monson

I urge you to be attentive and receptive to the messages which we will hear.
That we may do so is my prayer.
My beloved brothers and sisters, how pleased I am to welcome you to the 183rd Annual
General Conference of the Church.
During the six months since last we met, it has been my opportunity to travel a bit and
to meet with some of you in your own areas. Following general conference in October, I
traveled to Germany, where it was my privilege to meet with our members at several
locations in that country as well as in parts of Austria.
At the end of October, I dedicated the Calgary Alberta Temple in Canada, with the
assistance of Elder and Sister M. Russell Ballard, Elder and Sister Craig C. Christensen,
and Elder and Sister William R. Walker. In November, I rededicated the Boise Idaho
Temple. Also traveling with me and participating in the dedication were Elder and Sister
David A. Bednar, Elder and Sister Craig C. Christensen, and Elder and Sister William R.
Walker.
The cultural celebrations held in conjunction with both of these dedications were
outstanding. I did not personally attend the cultural celebration in Calgary, inasmuch as
it was Sister Monsons 85th birthday and I felt I should be with her. However, she and I

were privileged to watch the celebration in our living room over closed-circuit television,
and then I flew to Calgary the following morning for the dedication. In Boise over 9,000
youth from the temple district participated in the cultural celebration. There were so
many young people involved that there was not room for family members to attend in
the arena in which they performed.
Just last month President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, accompanied by Sister Uchtdorf, Elder and
Sister Jeffrey R. Holland, and Elder and Sister Gregory A. Schwitzer, traveled to
Tegucigalpa, Honduras, to dedicate our newly completed temple there. A magnificent
youth celebration took place the evening prior to the dedication.
There are other temples which have been announced and which are at various stages in
the preliminary process or which are under construction.
It is my privilege this morning to announce two additional temples, which in coming
months and years will be built in the following locations: Cedar City, Utah, and Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil. Brothers and sisters, temple building continues unabated.
As you know, in the October general conference I announced changes in the ages at
which young men and young women might serve as full-time missionaries, with the
young men now being able to serve at age 18 and the young women at 19.
The response of our young people has been remarkable and inspiring. As of April 4two
days agowe have 65,634 full-time missionaries serving, with over 20,000 more who
have received their calls but who have not yet entered a missionary training center and
over 6,000 more in the interview process with their bishops and stake presidents. It has
been necessary for us to create 58 new missions to accommodate the increased
numbers of missionaries.
To help maintain this missionary force, and because many of our missionaries come from
modest circumstances, we invite you, as you are able, to contribute generously to the
General Missionary Fund of the Church.
Now, brothers and sisters, we will hear inspired messages today and tomorrow. Those
who will address us have sought prayerfully to know that which the Lord would have us
hear at this time.
I urge you to be attentive and receptive to the messages which we will hear. That we
may do so is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord, amen.

April 2013 General Conference

Come, All Ye Sons of God

By President Thomas S. Monson

May each one of us search the scriptures with diligence, plan his life with
purpose, teach the truth with testimony, and serve the Lord with love.

Twice each year this magnificent Conference Center seems to say to us, with its
persuasive voice, Come, all ye sons of God who have received the priesthood. 1 There is
a characteristic spirit which pervades the general priesthood meeting of the Church.
Tonight there are many thousands of our number throughout the world who are serving
the Lord as His missionaries. As I mentioned in my message this morning, we currently
have over 65,000 missionaries in the field, with thousands more who are waiting to enter
the missionary training center or whose applications are currently being processed. We
love and commend those who are willing and anxious to serve.
The holy scriptures contain no proclamation more relevant, no responsibility more
binding, no instruction more direct than the injunction given by the resurrected Lord as
He appeared in Galilee to the eleven disciples. Said He:
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am
with you alway, even unto the end of the world.2
This divine command, coupled with its glorious promise, is our watchword today as it was
in the meridian of time. Missionary work is an identifying feature of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints. Always has it been; ever shall it be. As the Prophet Joseph
Smith declared, After all that has been said, the greatest and most important duty is to
preach the Gospel.3
Within two short years, all of the full-time missionaries currently serving in this royal
army of God will have concluded their labors and will have returned to their homes and
loved ones. For the elders, their replacements are found tonight in the ranks of the
Aaronic Priesthood of the Church. Young men, are you ready to respond? Are you willing
to work? Are you prepared to serve?
At best, missionary work necessitates drastic adjustment to ones pattern of living. It
requires long hours and great devotion, selfless sacrifice and fervent prayer. As a result,
dedicated missionary service returns a dividend of eternal joy which extends throughout
mortality and into eternity.
The challenge is to be more profitable servants in the Lords vineyard. This applies to all
of us, whatever our age, and not alone to those who are preparing to serve as full-time
missionaries, for to each of us comes the mandate to share the gospel of Christ.
May I suggest a formula that will ensure our success: first, search the scriptures with
diligence; second, plan your life with purpose (and, I might add, plan your life regardless
of your age); third, teach the truth with testimony; and fourth, serve the Lord with love.
Let us consider each of the four parts of the formula.
First, search the scriptures with diligence.
The scriptures testify of God and contain the words of eternal life. They become the
foundation of our message.

The emphasis of the Church curricula is the holy scriptures, programmed and
coordinated through the correlation effort. We are encouraged, as well, to study the
scriptures each day both individually and with our families.
Let me provide but one reference which has immediate application to our lives. In the
Book of Mormon, the 17th chapter of Alma, we read the account of Almas joy as he once
more saw the sons of Mosiah and noted their steadfastness in the cause of truth. The
record tells us, They had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men
of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they
might know the word of God.
But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore
they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they
taught with power and authority of God.4
Brethren, search the scriptures with diligence.
Second in our formula: plan your life with purpose.
Perhaps no generation of youth has faced such far-reaching decisions as the youth of
today. Provision must be made for school, mission, and marriage. For some, military
service will be included.
Preparation for a mission begins early. In addition to spiritual preparation, a wise parent
will provide the means whereby a young son might commence his personal missionary
fund. He may well be encouraged as the years go by to study a foreign language so that,
if necessary, his language skills could be utilized. Eventually there comes that glorious
day when the bishop and stake president invite the young man in for a visit. Worthiness
is ascertained; a missionary recommendation is completed.
During no other time does the entire family so anxiously watch and wait for the mailman
and the letter which contains the return address 47 East South Temple, Salt Lake City,
Utah. The letter arrives; the suspense is overwhelming; the call is read. Often the
assigned field of labor is far away from home. Regardless of the location, however, the
response of the prepared and obedient missionary is the same: I will serve.
Preparations for departure begin. Young men, I hope you appreciate the sacrifices which
your parents so willingly make in order for you to serve. Their labors will sustain you,
their faith encourage you, their prayers uphold you. A mission is a family affair. Though
the expanse of continents or oceans may separate, hearts are as one.
Brethren, as you plan with purpose your lives, remember that your missionary
opportunities are not restricted to the period of a formal call. For those of you who serve
in the military, such time can and should be profitable. Each year our young men in
uniform bring many souls into the kingdom of God by honoring their priesthood, living
the commandments of God, and teaching to others the Lords divine word.
Do not overlook your privilege to be missionaries while you are pursuing your formal
education. Your example as a Latter-day Saint will be observed, weighed, and ofttimes
emulated.

Brethren, whatever your age, whatever your circumstance, I admonish you to plan your
life with purpose.
Now to the third point in our formula: teach the truth with testimony.
Obey the counsel of the Apostle Peter, who urged, Be ready always to give an answer to
every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you.5 Lift up your voices and
testify to the true nature of the Godhead. Declare your witness concerning the Book of
Mormon. Convey the glorious and beautiful truths contained in the plan of salvation.
When I served as a mission president in Canada more than 50 years ago, one young
missionary who came from a small, rural community marveled at the size of Toronto. He
was short in stature but tall in testimony. Not long after his arrival, together with his
companion, he called at the home of Elmer Pollard in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Feeling
sorry for the young men who, during a blinding blizzard, were going house to house,
Mr. Pollard invited the missionaries into his home. They presented to him their message.
He did not catch the spirit. In due time he asked that they leave and not return. His last
words to the elders as they departed his front porch were spoken in derision: You cant
tell me you actually believe Joseph Smith was a prophet of God!
The door was shut. The elders walked down the path. Our country boy spoke to his
companion: Elder, we didnt respond to Mr. Pollard. He said we didnt believe Joseph
Smith was a true prophet. Lets return and bear our testimonies to him. At first the more
experienced missionary hesitated but finally agreed to accompany his companion. Fear
struck their hearts as they approached the door from which they had just been ejected.
They knocked, confronted Mr. Pollard, spent an agonizing moment, and then with power
borne of the Spirit, our inexperienced missionary spoke: Mr. Pollard, you said we didnt
really believe Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I testify to you that Joseph was a
prophet. He did translate the Book of Mormon. He saw God the Father and Jesus the Son.
I know it.
Some time later, Mr. Pollard, now Brother Pollard, stood in a priesthood meeting and
declared, That night I could not sleep. Resounding in my ears I heard the words Joseph
Smith was a prophet of God. I know it. I know it. I know it. The next day I telephoned the
missionaries and asked them to return. Their message, coupled with their testimonies,
changed my life and the lives of my family. Brethren, teach the truth with testimony.
The final point in our formula is to serve the Lord with love. There is no substitute for
love. Successful missionaries love their companions, their mission leaders, and the
precious persons whom they teach. In the fourth section of the Doctrine and Covenants,
the Lord established the qualifications for the labors of the ministry. Let us consider but a
few verses:
O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might,
mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for
the work.
Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness,
godliness, charity, humility, diligence.6

Well might each of you within the sound of my voice ask himself the question Today,
have I increased in faith, in virtue, in knowledge, in godliness, in love?
Through your dedicated devotion at home or abroad, those souls whom you help to save
may well be those whom you love the most.
Many years ago dear friends of mine, Craig Sudbury and his mother, Pearl, came to my
office prior to Craigs departure for the Australia Melbourne Mission. Fred Sudbury,
Craigs father, was noticeably absent. Twenty-five years earlier, Craigs mother had
married Fred, who did not share her love for the Church and, indeed, was not a member.
Craig confided to me his deep and abiding love for his parents and his hope that
somehow, in some way, his father would be touched by the Spirit and open his heart to
the gospel of Jesus Christ. I prayed for inspiration concerning how such a desire might be
fulfilled. The inspiration came, and I said to Craig, Serve the Lord with all your heart. Be
obedient to your sacred calling. Each week write a letter to your parents, and on
occasion, write to Dad personally, and let him know how much you love him, and tell him
why youre grateful to be his son. He thanked me and, with his mother, departed the
office.
I was not to see Craigs mother for some 18 months, when she came to my office and, in
sentences punctuated by tears, said to me, It has been almost two years since Craig left
for his mission. He has never failed in writing a letter to us each week. Recently, my
husband, Fred, stood for the first time in a testimony meeting and surprised me and
shocked everyone who was there by announcing that he had made the decision to
become a member of the Church. He indicated that he and I would go to Australia to
meet Craig at the conclusion of his mission so that Fred could be Craigs final baptism as
a full-time missionary.
No missionary stood so tall as did Craig Sudbury when, in far-off Australia, he helped his
father into water waist-deep and, raising his right arm to the square, repeated those
sacred words: Frederick Charles Sudbury, having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I
baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Love had won its victory. Serve the Lord with love.
Brethren, may each one of us search the scriptures with diligence, plan his life with
purpose, teach the truth with testimony, and serve the Lord with love.
The perfect Shepherd of our souls, the missionary who redeemed mankind, gave us His
divine assurance:
If it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and
bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom
of my Father!
And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the
kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto
me!7

Of Him who spoke these words I declare my witness: He is the Son of God, our
Redeemer, and our Savior.
I pray that we may ever respond to His gentle invitation, Follow thou me.8 In His holy
nameeven the name of Jesus Christ the Lordamen.

April 2013 General Conference

Obedience Brings Blessings

By President Thomas S. Monson

A knowledge of truth and the answers to our greatest questions come to us
as we are obedient to the commandments of God.
My beloved brothers and sisters, how grateful I am to be with you this morning. I seek an
interest in your faith and prayers as I respond to the privilege to address you.
Throughout the ages, men and women have sought for knowledge and understanding
concerning this mortal existence and their place and purpose in it, as well as for the way
to peace and happiness. Such a search is undertaken by each of us.
This knowledge and understanding are available to all mankind. They are contained in
truths which are eternal. In Doctrine and Covenants section 1, verse 39, we read,
Behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the Spirit beareth record, and the record is true,
and the truth abideth forever and ever.
The poet wrote:
Tho the heavens depart and the earths fountains burst,
Truth, the sum of existence, will weather the worst,
Eternal, unchanged, evermore.1
Some would ask, Where is such truth to be found, and how are we to recognize it? In a
revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith at Kirtland, Ohio, in May of 1833, the
Lord declared:
Truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come.
The Spirit of truth is of God.
And no man receiveth a fulness unless he keepeth his commandments.
He that keepeth [Gods] commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in
truth and knoweth all things.2
What a glorious promise! He that keepeth [Gods] commandments receiveth truth and
light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things.

There is no need for you or for me, in this enlightened age when the fulness of the
gospel has been restored, to sail uncharted seas or to travel unmarked roads in search of
truth. A loving Heavenly Father has plotted our course and provided an unfailing guide
even obedience. A knowledge of truth and the answers to our greatest questions come
to us as we are obedient to the commandments of God.
We learn obedience throughout our lives. Beginning when we are very young, those
responsible for our care set forth guidelines and rules to ensure our safety. Life would be
simpler for all of us if we would obey such rules completely. Many of us, however, learn
through experience the wisdom of being obedient.
When I was growing up, each summer from early July until early September, my family
stayed at our cabin at Vivian Park in Provo Canyon in Utah.
One of my best friends during those carefree days in the canyon was Danny Larsen,
whose family also owned a cabin at Vivian Park. Each day he and I roamed this boys
paradise, fishing in the stream and the river, collecting rocks and other treasures, hiking,
climbing, and simply enjoying each minute of each hour of each day.
One morning Danny and I decided we wanted to have a campfire that evening with all
our canyon friends. We just needed to clear an area in a nearby field where we could all
gather. The June grass which covered the field had become dry and prickly, making the
field unsuitable for our purposes. We began to pull at the tall grass, planning to clear a
large, circular area. We tugged and yanked with all our might, but all we could get were
small handfuls of the stubborn weeds. We knew this task would take the entire day, and
already our energy and enthusiasm were waning.
And then what I thought was the perfect solution came into my eight-year-old mind. I
said to Danny, All we need is to set these weeds on fire. Well just burn a circle in the
weeds! He readily agreed, and I ran to our cabin to get a few matches.
Lest any of you think that at the tender age of eight we were permitted to use matches, I
want to make it clear that both Danny and I were forbidden to use them without adult
supervision. Both of us had been warned repeatedly of the dangers of fire. However, I
knew where my family kept the matches, and we needed to clear that field. Without so
much as a second thought, I ran to our cabin and grabbed a few matchsticks, making
certain no one was watching. I hid them quickly in one of my pockets.
Back to Danny I ran, excited that in my pocket I had the solution to our problem. I recall
thinking that the fire would burn only as far as we wanted and then would somehow
magically extinguish itself.
I struck a match on a rock and set the parched June grass ablaze. It ignited as though it
had been drenched in gasoline. At first Danny and I were thrilled as we watched the
weeds disappear, but it soon became apparent that the fire was not about to go out on
its own. We panicked as we realized there was nothing we could do to stop it. The
menacing flames began to follow the wild grass up the mountainside, endangering the
pine trees and everything else in their path.
Finally we had no option but to run for help. Soon all available men and women at Vivian
Park were dashing back and forth with wet burlap bags, beating at the flames in an

attempt to extinguish them. After several hours the last remaining embers were
smothered. The ages-old pine trees had been saved, as were the homes the flames
would eventually have reached.
Danny and I learned several difficult but important lessons that daynot the least of
which was the importance of obedience.
There are rules and laws to help ensure our physical safety. Likewise, the Lord has
provided guidelines and commandments to help ensure our spiritual safety so that we
might successfully navigate this often-treacherous mortal existence and return
eventually to our Heavenly Father.
Centuries ago, to a generation steeped in the tradition of animal sacrifice, Samuel boldly
declared, To obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.3
In this dispensation, the Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith that He requires the
heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of
Zion in these last days.4
All prophets, ancient and modern, have known that obedience is essential to our
salvation. Nephi declared, I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded.5
Though others faltered in their faith and their obedience, never once did Nephi fail to do
that which the Lord asked of him. Untold generations have been blessed as a result.
A soul-stirring account of obedience is that of Abraham and Isaac. How painfully difficult
it must have been for Abraham, in obedience to Gods command, to take his beloved
Isaac into the land of Moriah to offer him as a sacrifice. Can we imagine the heaviness of
Abrahams heart as he journeyed to the appointed place? Surely anguish must have
racked his body and tortured his mind as he bound Isaac, laid him on the altar, and took
the knife to slay him. With unwavering faith and implicit trust in the Lord, he responded
to the Lords command. How glorious was the pronouncement, and with what wondered
welcome did it come: Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto
him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine
only son from me.6
Abraham had been tried and tested, and for his faithfulness and obedience the Lord gave
him this glorious promise: In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed;
because thou hast obeyed my voice.7
Although we are not asked to prove our obedience in such a dramatic and heartwrenching way, obedience is required of us as well.
Declared President Joseph F. Smith in October 1873, Obedience is the first law of
heaven.8
Said President Gordon B. Hinckley, The happiness of the Latter-day Saints, the peace of
the Latter-day Saints, the progress of the Latter-day Saints, the prosperity of the Latterday Saints, and the eternal salvation and exaltation of this people lie in walking in
obedience to the counsels of God.9

Obedience is a hallmark of prophets; it has provided strength and knowledge to them

throughout the ages. It is essential for us to realize that we, as well, are entitled to this
source of strength and knowledge. It is readily available to each of us today as we obey
Gods commandments.
Throughout the years, I have known countless individuals who have been particularly
faithful and obedient. I have been blessed and inspired by them. May I share with you an
account of two such individuals.
Walter Krause was a steadfast member of the Church who, with his family, lived in what
became known as East Germany following the Second World War. Despite the hardships
he faced because of the lack of freedom in that area of the world at the time, Brother
Krause was a man who loved and served the Lord. He faithfully and conscientiously
fulfilled each assignment given to him.
The other man, Johann Denndorfer, a native of Hungary, was converted to the Church in
Germany and was baptized there in 1911 at the age of 17. Not too long afterward he
returned to Hungary. Following the Second World War, he found himself virtually a
prisoner in his native land, in the city of Debrecen. Freedom had also been taken from
the people of Hungary.
Brother Walter Krause, who did not know Brother Denndorfer, received the assignment to
be his home teacher and to visit him on a regular basis. Brother Krause called his home
teaching companion and said to him, We have received an assignment to visit Brother
Johann Denndorfer. Would you be available to go with me this week to see him and give
him a gospel message? And then he added, Brother Denndorfer lives in Hungary.
His startled companion asked, When will we leave?
Tomorrow, came the reply from Brother Krause.
When will we return home? asked the companion.
Brother Krause responded, Oh, in about a weekif we get back.
Away the two home teaching companions went to visit Brother Denndorfer, traveling by
train and bus from the northeastern area of Germany to Debrecen, Hungarya
substantial journey. Brother Denndorfer had not had home teachers since before the war.
Now, when he saw these servants of the Lord, he was overwhelmed with gratitude that
they had come. At first he declined to shake hands with them. Rather, he went to his
bedroom and took from a small cabinet a box containing his tithing that he had saved for
years. He presented the tithing to his home teachers and said, Now I am current with
the Lord. Now I feel worthy to shake the hands of servants of the Lord! Brother Krause
told me later that he had been touched beyond words to think that this faithful brother,
who had no contact with the Church for many years, had obediently and consistently
taken from his meager earnings 10 percent with which to pay his tithing. He had saved it
not knowing when or if he might have the privilege of paying it.
Brother Walter Krause passed away nine years ago at the age of 94. He served faithfully
and obediently throughout his life and was an inspiration to me and to all who knew him.

When asked to fulfill assignments, he never questioned, he never murmured, and he

never made excuses.
My brothers and sisters, the great test of this life is obedience. We will prove them
herewith, said the Lord, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God
shall command them.10
Declared the Savior, For all who will have a blessing at my hands shall abide the law
which was appointed for that blessing, and the conditions thereof, as were instituted
from before the foundation of the world.11
No greater example of obedience exists than that of our Savior. Of Him, Paul observed:
Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that
obey him.12
The Savior demonstrated genuine love of God by living the perfect life, by honoring the
sacred mission that was His. Never was He haughty. Never was He puffed up with pride.
Never was He disloyal. Ever was He humble. Ever was He sincere. Ever was He obedient.
Though He was tempted by that master of deceit, even the devil, though He was
physically weakened from fasting 40 days and 40 nights and was an hungered, yet when
the evil one proffered Jesus the most alluring and tempting proposals, He gave to us a
divine example of obedience by refusing to deviate from what He knew was right.13
When faced with the agony of Gethsemane, where He endured such pain that his sweat
was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground,14 He exemplified the
obedient Son by saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me:
nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.15
As the Savior instructed His early Apostles, so He instructs you and me, Follow thou
me.16 Are we willing to obey?
The knowledge which we seek, the answers for which we yearn, and the strength which
we desire today to meet the challenges of a complex and changing world can be ours
when we willingly obey the Lords commandments. I quote once again the words of the
Lord: He that keepeth [Gods] commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is
glorified in truth and knoweth all things.17
It is my humble prayer that we may be blessed with the rich rewards promised to the
obedient. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, amen.

April 2013 General Conference

Until We Meet Again

By President Thomas S. Monson

I pray that the Lord will bless and keep you, my brothers and sisters. May
His promised peace be with you now and always.
My brothers and sisters, what a glorious conference we have had. I know you will agree
with me that the messages have been inspiring. Our hearts have been touched, and our
testimonies of this divine work have been strengthened as we have felt the Spirit of the
Lord. May we long remember what we have heard these past two days. I urge you to
study the messages further when they are printed in coming issues of the Ensign and
Liahona magazines.
We express our gratitude to each one who has spoken to us, as well as to those who
have offered prayers. In addition, the music has been uplifting and inspiring. We love our
wonderful Tabernacle Choir and thank all others who provided music as well.
We join together in expressing our gratitude to those of the presidency and board of the
general Young Women, who were released yesterday. Their service has been outstanding
and their dedication complete.
We have sustained, by uplifted hands, brethren and sisters who have been called to new
positions during this conference. We want all of them to know that we look forward to
serving with them in the cause of the Master.
We are a worldwide Church, brothers and sisters. Our membership is found across the
globe. I admonish you to be good citizens of the nations in which you live and good
neighbors in your communities, reaching out to those of other faiths as well as to our
own. May we be tolerant of, as well as kind and loving to, those who do not share our
beliefs and our standards. The Savior brought to this earth a message of love and
goodwill to all men and women. May we ever follow His example.
I pray that we may be aware of the needs of those around us. There are some,
particularly among the young, who are tragically involved in drugs, immorality,
pornography, and so on. There are those who are lonely, including widows and widowers,
who long for the company and concern of others. May we ever be ready to extend to
them a helping hand and a loving heart.
We live at a time in the worlds history when there are many difficult challenges but also
great opportunities and reasons for rejoicing. There are, of course, those times when we
experience disappointments, heartaches, and even tragedies in our lives. However, if we
will put our trust in the Lord, He will help us through our difficulties, whatever they may
be. The Psalmist provided this assurance: Weeping may endure for a night, but joy
cometh in the morning.1
My brothers and sisters, I want you to know how grateful I am for the gospel of Jesus
Christ, restored in these latter days through the Prophet Joseph Smith. It is the key to our
happiness. May we be humble and prayerful, having the faith that our Heavenly Father
can guide and bless us in our lives.
I bear my personal witness and testimony to you that God lives, that He hears the
prayers of humble hearts. His Son, our Savior and Redeemer, speaks to each of us:
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I
will come in to him.2 May we believe these words and take advantage of this promise.

As this conference now concludes, I invoke the blessings of heaven upon each of you.
May your homes be filled with peace, harmony, courtesy, and love. May they be filled
with the Spirit of the Lord. May you nurture and nourish your testimonies of the gospel,
that they will be a protection to you against the buffetings of Satan.
Until we meet again in six months, I pray that the Lord will bless and keep you, my
brothers and sisters. May His promised peace be with you now and always. Thank you for
your prayers in my behalf and in behalf of all of the General Authorities. We are deeply
grateful for you. In the name of our Savior and Redeemer, whom we serve, even Jesus
Christ, the Lord, amen.

October 2013 General Conference

We Never Walk Alone

By President Thomas S. Monson

You will one day stand aside and look at your difficult times, and you will
realize that He was always there beside you.
My dear sisters, the spirit we feel this evening is a reflection of your strength, your
devotion, and your goodness. To quote the Master: Ye are the salt of the earth. Ye are
the light of the world.1
As I have contemplated my opportunity to address you, I have been reminded of the love
my dear wife, Frances, had for Relief Society. During her lifetime she served in many
positions in Relief Society. When she and I were both just 31 years of age, I was called to
be president of the Canadian Mission. During the three years of that assignment, Frances
presided over all of the Relief Societies in that vast area, which encompassed the
provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Some of her closest friendships came as a result of
that assignment, as well as from the many callings she later filled in our own ward Relief
Society. She was a faithful daughter of our Heavenly Father, my beloved companion, and
my dearest friend. I miss her more than words can express.
I too love Relief Society. I testify to you that it was organized by inspiration and is a vital
part of the Lords Church here upon the earth. It would be impossible to calculate all the
good which has come from this organization and all the lives which have been blessed
because of it.
Relief Society is made up of a variety of women. There are those of you who are single
perhaps in school, perhaps workingyet forging a full and rich life. Some of you are busy
mothers of growing children. Still others of you have lost your husbands because of
divorce or death and are struggling to raise your children without the help of a husband
and father. Some of you have raised your children but have realized that their need for
your help is ongoing. There are many of you who have aging parents who require the
loving care only you can give.
Wherever we are in life, there are times when all of us have challenges and struggles.
Although they are different for each, they are common to all.

Many of the challenges we face exist because we live in this mortal world, populated by
all manner of individuals. At times we ask in desperation, How can I keep my sights
firmly fixed on the celestial as I navigate through this telestial world?
There will be times when you will walk a path strewn with thorns and marked by
struggle. There may be times when you feel detachedeven isolatedfrom the Giver of
every good gift. You worry that you walk alone. Fear replaces faith.
When you find yourself in such circumstances, I plead with you to remember prayer. I
love the words of President Ezra Taft Benson concerning prayer. Said he:
All through my life the counsel to depend on prayer has been prized above almost any
other advice I have received. It has become an integral part of mean anchor, a
constant source of strength, and the basis of my knowledge of things divine.
Though reverses come, in prayer we can find reassurance, for God will speak peace
to the soul. That peace, that spirit of serenity, is lifes greatest blessing.2
The Apostle Paul admonished:
Let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and
minds through Christ Jesus.3
What a glorious promise! Peace is that which we seek, that for which we yearn.
We were not placed on this earth to walk alone. What an amazing source of power, of
strength, and of comfort is available to each of us. He who knows us better than we
know ourselves, He who sees the larger picture and who knows the end from the
beginning, has assured us that He will be there for us to provide help if we but ask. We
have the promise: Pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for
your good.4
As our prayers ascend heavenward, let us not forget the words taught to us by the
Savior. When He faced the excruciating agony of Gethsemane and the cross, He prayed
to the Father, Not my will, but thine, be done.5 Difficult as it may at times be, it is for
us, as well, to trust our Heavenly Father to know best how and when and in what manner
to provide the help we seek.
I cherish the words of the poet:
I know not by what methods rare,
But this I know, God answers prayer.
I know that He has given His Word,
Which tells me prayer is always heard,
And will be answered, soon or late.
And so I pray and calmly wait.
I know not if the blessing sought
Will come in just the way I thought;
But leave my prayers with Him alone,

Whose will is wiser than my own,

Assured that He will grant my quest,
Or send some answer far more blest.6
Of course, prayer is not just for times of trouble. We are told repeatedly in the scriptures
to pray always7 and to keep a prayer in our hearts.8 The words of a favorite and
familiar hymn pose a question which we would do well to ask ourselves daily: Did you
think to pray?9
Allied with prayer in helping us cope in our often difficult world is scripture study. The
words of truth and inspiration found in our four standard works are prized possessions to
me. I never tire of reading them. I am lifted spiritually whenever I search the scriptures.
These holy words of truth and love give guidance to my life and point the way to eternal
perfection.
As we read and ponder the scriptures, we will experience the sweet whisperings of the
Spirit to our souls. We can find answers to our questions. We learn of the blessings which
come through keeping Gods commandments. We gain a sure testimony of our Heavenly
Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ, and of Their love for us. When scripture study is
combined with our prayers, we can of a certainty know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is
true.
Said President Gordon B. Hinckley, May the Lord bless each of us to feast upon his holy
[words] and to draw from [them] that strength, that peace, [and] that knowledge which
passeth all understanding (Philip. 4:7).10
As we remember prayer and take time to turn to the scriptures, our lives will be infinitely
more blessed and our burdens will be made lighter.
May I share with you the account of how our Heavenly Father answered the prayers and
pleadings of one woman and provided her the peace and assurance she so desperately
sought?
Tiffanys difficulties began last year when she had guests at her home for Thanksgiving
and then again for Christmas. Her husband had been in medical school and was now in
the second year of his medical residency. Because of the long work hours required of
him, he was not able to help her as much as they both would have liked, and so most of
that which needed to be accomplished during this holiday season, in addition to the care
of their four young children, fell to Tiffany. She was becoming overwhelmed, and then
she learned that one who was dear to her had been diagnosed with cancer. The stress
and worry began to take a heavy toll on her, and she slipped into a period of
discouragement and depression. She sought medical help, and yet nothing changed. Her
appetite disappeared, and she began to lose weight, which her tiny frame could ill afford.
She sought peace through the scriptures and prayed for deliverance from the gloom
which was overtaking her. When neither peace nor help seemed to come, she began to
feel abandoned by God. Her family and friends prayed for her and tried desperately to
help. They delivered her favorite foods in an attempt to keep her physically healthy, but
she could take only a few bites and then would be unable to finish.

On one particularly trying day, a friend attempted in vain to entice her with foods she
had always loved. When nothing worked, the friend said, There must be something that
sounds good to you.
Tiffany thought for a moment and said, The only thing I can think of that sounds good is
homemade bread.
But there was none on hand.
The following afternoon Tiffanys doorbell rang. Her husband happened to be home and
answered it. When he returned, he was carrying a loaf of homemade bread. Tiffany was
astonished when he told her it had come from a woman named Sherrie, whom they
barely knew. She was a friend of Tiffanys sister Nicole, who lived in Denver, Colorado.
Sherrie had been introduced to Tiffany and her husband briefly several months earlier
when Nicole and her family were staying with Tiffany for Thanksgiving. Sherrie, who lived
in Omaha, had come to Tiffanys home to visit with Nicole.
Now, months later, with the delicious bread in hand, Tiffany called her sister Nicole to
thank her for sending Sherrie on an errand of mercy. Instead, she learned Nicole had not
instigated the visit and had no knowledge of it.
The rest of the story unfolded as Nicole checked with her friend Sherrie to find out what
had prompted her to deliver that loaf of bread. What she learned was an inspiration to
her, to Tiffany, to Sherrieand it is an inspiration to me.
On that particular morning of the bread delivery, Sherrie had been prompted to make
two loaves of bread instead of the one she had planned to make. She said she felt
impressed to take the second loaf with her in her car that day, although she didnt know
why. After lunch at a friends home, her one-year-old daughter began to cry and needed
to be taken home for a nap. Sherrie hesitated when the unmistakable feeling came to
her that she needed to deliver that extra loaf of bread to Nicoles sister Tiffany, who lived
30 minutes away on the other side of town and whom she barely knew. She tried to
rationalize away the thought, wanting to get her very tired daughter home and feeling
sheepish about delivering a loaf of bread to people who were almost strangers. However,
the impression to go to Tiffanys home was strong, so she heeded the prompting.
When she arrived, Tiffanys husband answered the door. Sherrie reminded him that she
was Nicoles friend whom hed met briefly at Thanksgiving, handed him the loaf of bread,
and left.
And so it happened that the Lord sent a virtual stranger across town to deliver not just
the desired homemade bread but also a clear message of love to Tiffany. What happened
to her cannot be explained in any other way. She had an urgent need to feel that she
wasnt alonethat God was aware of her and had not abandoned her. That breadthe
very thing she wantedwas delivered to her by someone she barely knew, someone who
had no knowledge of her need but who listened to the prompting of the Spirit and
followed that prompting. It became an obvious sign to Tiffany that her Heavenly Father
was aware of her needs and loved her enough to send help. He had responded to her
cries for relief.

My dear sisters, your Heavenly Father loves youeach of you. That love never changes.
It is not influenced by your appearance, by your possessions, or by the amount of money
you have in your bank account. It is not changed by your talents and abilities. It is simply
there. It is there for you when you are sad or happy, discouraged or hopeful. Gods love
is there for you whether or not you feel you deserve love. It is simply always there.
As we seek our Heavenly Father through fervent, sincere prayer and earnest, dedicated
scripture study, our testimonies will become strong and deeply rooted. We will know of
Gods love for us. We will understand that we do not ever walk alone. I promise you that
you will one day stand aside and look at your difficult times, and you will realize that He
was always there beside you. I know this to be true in the passing of my eternal
companionFrances Beverly Johnson Monson.
I leave with you my blessing. I leave with you my gratitude for all the good you do and
for the lives you lead. That you may be blessed with every good gift is my prayer in the
name of our Savior and Redeemer, even Jesus Christ the Lord, amen.

October 2013 General Conference

Welcome to Conference

By President Thomas S. Monson

It is my prayer that we may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord as we listen
and learn.
How good it is, my beloved brothers and sisters, to meet together once again. It has
been just over 183 years since the Church was organized by the Prophet Joseph Smith,
under the direction of the Lord. At that meeting on April 6, 1830, there were six members
of the Church present.1
I am happy to announce that two weeks ago, the membership of the Church reached 15
million. The Church continues to grow steadily and to change the lives of more and more
people every year. It is spreading across the earth as our missionary force seeks out
those who are searching for the truth.
It has scarcely been one year since I announced the lowering of the age of missionary
service. Since that time the number of full-time missionaries serving has increased from
58,500 in October 2012 to 80,333 today. What a tremendous and inspiring response we
have witnessed!
The holy scriptures contain no proclamation more relevant, no responsibility more
binding, no instruction more direct than the injunction given by the resurrected Lord as
He appeared in Galilee to the eleven disciples. Said He, Go ye therefore, and teach all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost.2 The Prophet Joseph Smith declared, After all that has been said, the greatest
and most important duty is to preach the Gospel.3 Some of you here today will yet
remember the words of President David O. McKay, who phrased the familiar Every
member a missionary!4

To their words I add my own. Now is the time for members and missionaries to come
together, to work together, to labor in the Lords vineyard to bring souls unto Him. He
has prepared the means for us to share the gospel in a multitude of ways, and He will
assist us in our labors if we will act in faith to fulfill His work.
To help maintain our ever-increasing missionary force, I have asked our members in the
past to contribute, as they are able, to their ward missionary fund or to the General
Missionary Fund of the Church. The response to that request has been gratifying and has
helped support thousands of missionaries whose circumstances do not allow them to
support themselves. I thank you for your generous contributions. The need for help is
ongoing, that we might continue to assist those whose desire to serve is great but who
do not, by themselves, have the means to do so.
Now, brothers and sisters, we have come here to be instructed and inspired. Many
messages, covering a variety of gospel topics, will be given during the next two days.
Those men and women who will speak to you have sought heavens help concerning the
messages they will give.
It is my prayer that we may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord as we listen and learn. In
the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2013 General Conference

True Shepherds

By President Thomas S. Monson

Home teaching answers many prayers and permits us to see the
transformations which can take place in peoples lives.
Tonight in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City and in locations far and near are
assembled those who bear the priesthood of God. Truly you are a royal priesthood
even a chosen generation, as the Apostle Peter declared.1 I am honored to have the
privilege to address you.
When I was growing up, each summer our family would drive to Provo Canyon, about 45
miles (72 km) south and a little east of Salt Lake City, where we would stay in the family
cabin for several weeks. We boys were always anxious to get on the fishing stream or
into the swimming hole, and we would try to push the car a little faster. In those days,
the automobile my father drove was a 1928 Oldsmobile. If he went over 35 miles (56 km)
an hour, my mother would say, Keep it down! Keep it down! I would say, Put the
accelerator down, Dad! Put it down!
Dad would drive about 35 miles an hour all the way up to Provo Canyon or until we would
come around a bend in the road and our journey would be halted by a herd of sheep. We
would watch as hundreds of sheep filed past us, seemingly without a shepherd, a few
dogs yapping at their heels as they moved along. Way back in the rear we could see the
sheepherder on his horsenot a bridle on it but a halter. He was occasionally slouched

down in the saddle dozing, since the horse knew which way to go and the yapping dogs
did the work.
Contrast that to the scene which I viewed in Munich, Germany, many years ago. It was a
Sunday morning, and we were en route to a missionary conference. As I looked out the
window of the mission presidents automobile, I saw a shepherd with a staff in his hand,
leading the sheep. They followed him wherever he went. If he moved to the left, they
followed him to the left. If he moved to the right, they followed him in that direction. I
made the comparison between the true shepherd who led his sheep and the
sheepherder who rode casually behind his sheep.
Jesus said, I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep.2 He provides for us the
perfect example of what a true shepherd should be.
Brethren, as the priesthood of God we have a shepherding responsibility. The wisdom of
the Lord has provided guidelines whereby we might be shepherds to the families of the
Church, where we can serve, we can teach, and we can testify to them. Such is called
home teaching, and it is about this that I wish to speak to you tonight.
The bishop of each ward in the Church oversees the assigning of priesthood holders as
home teachers to visit the homes of members every month. They go in pairs. Where
possible, a young man who is a priest or a teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood
accompanies an adult holding the Melchizedek Priesthood. As they go into the homes of
those for whom they are responsible, the Aaronic Priesthood holder should take part in
the teaching which takes place. Such an assignment will help to prepare these young
men for missions as well as for a lifetime of priesthood service.
The home teaching program is a response to modern revelation commissioning those
ordained to the priesthood to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and visit the house of
each member, and exhort them to pray vocally and in secret and attend to all family
duties, to watch over the church always, and be with and strengthen them; and see
that there is no iniquity in the church, neither hardness with each other, neither lying,
backbiting, nor evil speaking.3
President David O. McKay admonished: Home teaching is one of our most urgent and
most rewarding opportunities to nurture and inspire, to counsel and direct our Fathers
children. [It] is a divine service, a divine call. It is our duty as Home Teachers to carry
the spirit into every home and heart. To love the work and do our best will bring
unbounded peace, joy and satisfaction to [a noble,] dedicated [teacher] of Gods
children.4
From the Book of Mormon we read that Alma consecrated all their priests and all their
teachers; and none were consecrated except they were just men.
Therefore they did watch over their people, and did nourish them with things pertaining
to righteousness.5
In performing our home teaching responsibilities, we are wise if we learn and understand
the challenges of the members of each family, that we might be effective in teaching
and in providing needed assistance.

A home teaching visit is also more likely to be successful if an appointment is made in

advance. To illustrate this point, let me share with you an experience I had some years
ago. At that time the Missionary Executive Committee was comprised of Spencer W.
Kimball, Gordon B. Hinckley, and Thomas S. Monson. One evening Brother and Sister
Hinckley hosted a dinner in their home for the committee members and our wives. We
had just finished a lovely meal when there was a knock at the door. President Hinckley
opened the door and found one of his home teachers standing there. The home teacher
said, I know I didnt make an appointment to come, and I dont have with me my
companion, but I felt I should come tonight. I didnt know you would be entertaining
company.
President Hinckley graciously invited the home teacher to come in and sit down and to
instruct three Apostles and our wives concerning our duty as members. With a bit of
trepidation, the home teacher did his best. President Hinckley thanked him for coming,
after which he made a hurried exit.
I mention one more example of the incorrect way to accomplish home teaching.
President Marion G. Romney, who was a counselor in the First Presidency some years
ago, used to tell about his home teacher who once went to the Romney home on a cold
winter night. He kept his hat in his hand and shifted nervously when invited to sit down
and give his message. As he remained standing, he said, Well, Ill tell you, Brother
Romney, its cold outside, and I left my car engine running so it wouldnt stop. I just
came by so I could tell the bishop I had made my visits.6
President Ezra Taft Benson, after relating President Romneys experience in a meeting of
priesthood holders, then said, We can do better than that, brethrenmuch better! 7 I
agree.
Home teaching is more than a mechanical visit once per month. Ours is the responsibility
to teach, to inspire, to motivate, and where we visit those who are not active, to bring to
activity and to eventual exaltation the sons and daughters of God.
To assist in our efforts, I share this wise counsel which surely applies to home teachers. It
comes from Abraham Lincoln, who said, If you would win a man to your cause, first
convince him that you are his sincere friend.8 President Ezra Taft Benson urged: Above
all, be a genuine friend to the individuals and families you teach. A friend makes more
than a dutiful visit each month. A friend is more concerned about helping people than
getting credit. A friend cares. A friend [shows love]. A friend listens, and a friend reaches
out.9
Home teaching answers many prayers and permits us to see the transformations which
can take place in peoples lives.
An example of this would be Dick Hammer, who came to Utah with the Civilian
Conservation Corps during the Depression. He met and married a Latter-day Saint young
woman. He opened Dicks Caf in St. George, Utah, which became a popular meeting
spot.
Assigned as home teacher to the Hammer family was Willard Milne, a friend of mine.
Since I knew Dick Hammer as well, having printed the menus for his caf, I would ask my
friend Brother Milne when I visited St. George, How is our friend Dick Hammer coming?

The reply would generally be, Hes coming, but slowly.

When Willard Milne and his companion visited the Hammer home each month, they
always managed to present a gospel message and to share their testimonies with Dick
and the family.
The years passed by, and then one day Willard phoned me with good news. Brother
Monson, he began, Dick Hammer is converted and is going to be baptized. He is in his
90th year, and we have been friends all our adult lives. His decision warms my heart. Ive
been his home teacher for many years. There was a catch in Willards voice as he
conveyed his welcome message.
Brother Hammer was indeed baptized and a year later entered that beautiful St. George
Temple and there received his endowment and sealing blessings.
I asked Willard, Did you ever become discouraged as his home teacher for such a long
time?
He replied, No, it was worth every effort. As I witness the joy which has come to the
members of the Hammer family, my heart fills with gratitude for the blessings the gospel
has brought into their lives and for the privilege I have had to help in some way. I am a
happy man.
Brethren, it will be our privilege through the years to visit and teach many individuals
those who are less active as well as those who are fully committed. If we are
conscientious in our calling, we will have many opportunities to bless lives. Our visits to
those who have distanced themselves from Church activity can be the key which will
eventually open the doors to their return.
With this thought in mind, let us reach out to those for whom we are responsible and
bring them to the table of the Lord to feast on His word and to enjoy the companionship
of His Spirit and be no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints,
and of the household of God.10
If any of you has slipped into complacency concerning your home teaching visits, may I
say that there is no time like the present to rededicate yourself to fulfilling your home
teaching duties. Decide now to make whatever effort is necessary to reach those for
whom you have been given responsibility. There are times when a little extra prodding
may be needed, as well, to help your home teaching companion find the time to go with
you, but if you are persistent, you will succeed.
Brethren, our efforts in home teaching are ongoing. The work will never be concluded
until our Lord and Master says, It is enough. There are lives to brighten. There are
hearts to touch. There are souls to save. Ours is the sacred privilege to brighten, to
touch, and to save those precious souls entrusted to our care. We should do so faithfully
and with hearts filled with gladness.
In closing I turn to one particular example to describe the type of home teachers we
should be. There is one Teacher whose life overshadows all others. He taught of life and
death, of duty and destiny. He lived not to be served but to serve, not to receive but to
give, not to save His life but to sacrifice it for others. He described a love more beautiful

than lust, a poverty richer than treasure. It was said of this Teacher that He taught with
authority and not as did the scribes.11 His laws were not inscribed upon stone but upon
human hearts.
I speak of the Master Teacher, even Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Savior and
Redeemer of all mankind. The biblical account says of Him, He went about doing
good.12 With Him as our unfailing guide and exemplar, we shall qualify for His divine
help in our home teaching. Lives will be blessed. Hearts will be comforted. Souls will be
saved. We will become true shepherds. That this may be so, I pray in the name of that
great Shepherd, Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2013 General Conference

I Will Not Fail Thee, nor Forsake Thee

By President Thomas S. Monson

Our Heavenly Father knows that we learn and grow and become stronger
as we face and survive the trials through which we must pass.
In my journal tonight, I shall write, This has been one of the most inspiring sessions of
any general conference Ive attended. Everything has been of the greatest and most
spiritual nature.
Brothers and sisters, six months ago as we met together in our general conference, my
sweet wife, Frances, lay in the hospital, having suffered a devastating fall just a few days
earlier. In May, after weeks of valiantly struggling to overcome her injuries, she slipped
into eternity. Her loss has been profound. She and I were married in the Salt Lake Temple
on October 7, 1948. Tomorrow would have been our 65th wedding anniversary. She was
the love of my life, my trusted confidant, and my closest friend. To say that I miss her
does not begin to convey the depth of my feelings.
This conference marks 50 years since I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
by President David O. McKay. Through all these years I have felt nothing but the full and
complete support of my sweet companion. Countless are the sacrifices she made so that
I could fulfill my calling. Never did I hear a word of complaint from her as I was often
required to spend days and sometimes weeks away from her and from our children. She
was an angel, indeed.
I wish to express my thanks, as well as those of my family, for the tremendous
outpouring of love which has come to us since Francess passing. Hundreds of cards and
letters were sent from around the world expressing admiration for her and condolences
to our family. We received dozens of beautiful floral arrangements. We are grateful for
the numerous contributions which have been offered in her name to the General
Missionary Fund of the Church. On behalf of those of us whom she left behind, I express
deep gratitude for your kind and heartfelt expressions.
Of utmost comfort to me during this tender time of parting have been my testimony of
the gospel of Jesus Christ and the knowledge I have that my dear Frances lives still. I

know that our separation is temporary. We were sealed in the house of God by one
having authority to bind on earth and in heaven. I know that we will be reunited one day
and will never again be separated. This is the knowledge that sustains me.
Brothers and sisters, it may be safely assumed that no person has ever lived entirely free
of suffering and sorrow, nor has there ever been a period in human history that did not
have its full share of turmoil and misery.
When the pathway of life takes a cruel turn, there is the temptation to ask the question
Why me? At times there appears to be no light at the end of the tunnel, no sunrise to
end the nights darkness. We feel encompassed by the disappointment of shattered
dreams and the despair of vanished hopes. We join in uttering the biblical plea, Is there
no balm in Gilead?1 We feel abandoned, heartbroken, alone. We are inclined to view our
own personal misfortunes through the distorted prism of pessimism. We become
impatient for a solution to our problems, forgetting that frequently the heavenly virtue of
patience is required.
The difficulties which come to us present us with the real test of our ability to endure. A
fundamental question remains to be answered by each of us: Shall I falter, or shall I
finish? Some do falter as they find themselves unable to rise above their challenges. To
finish involves enduring to the very end of life itself.
As we ponder the events that can befall all of us, we can say with Job of old, Man is born
unto trouble.2 Job was a perfect and upright man who feared God, and eschewed
evil.3 Pious in his conduct, prosperous in his fortune, Job was to face a test which could
have destroyed anyone. Shorn of his possessions, scorned by his friends, afflicted by his
suffering, shattered by the loss of his family, he was urged to curse God, and die. 4 He
resisted this temptation and declared from the depths of his noble soul:
Behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high.5
I know that my redeemer liveth.6
Job kept the faith. Will we do likewise as we face those challenges which will be ours?
Whenever we are inclined to feel burdened down with the blows of life, let us remember
that others have passed the same way, have endured, and then have overcome.
The history of the Church in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times, is replete with
the experiences of those who have struggled and yet who have remained steadfast and
of good cheer. The reason? They have made the gospel of Jesus Christ the center of their
lives. This is what will pull us through whatever comes our way. We will still experience
difficult challenges, but we will be able to face them, to meet them head on, and to
emerge victorious.
From the bed of pain, from the pillow wet with tears, we are lifted heavenward by that
divine assurance and precious promise: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.7 Such
comfort is priceless.
As I have traveled far and wide throughout the world fulfilling the responsibilities of my
calling, I have come to know many thingsnot the least of which is that sadness and

suffering are universal. I cannot begin to measure all of the heartache and sorrow I have
witnessed as I have visited with those who are dealing with grief, experiencing illness,
facing divorce, struggling with a wayward son or daughter, or suffering the
consequences of sin. The list could go on and on, for there are countless problems which
can befall us. To single out one example is difficult, and yet whenever I think of
challenges, my thoughts turn to Brother Brems, one of my boyhood Sunday School
teachers. He was a faithful member of the Church, a man with a heart of gold. He and his
wife, Sadie, had eight children, many of whom were the same ages as those in our
family.
After Frances and I were married and moved from the ward, we saw Brother and Sister
Brems and members of their family at weddings and funerals, as well as at ward
reunions.
In 1968, Brother Brems lost his wife, Sadie. Two of his eight children also passed away as
the years went by.
One day nearly 13 years ago, Brother Bremss oldest granddaughter telephoned me. She
explained that her grandfather had reached his 105th birthday. She said, He lives in a
small care center but meets with his entire family each Sunday, where he delivers a
gospel lesson. She continued, This past Sunday, Grandpa announced to us, My dears, I
am going to die this week. Will you please call Tommy Monson. He will know what to
do.
I visited Brother Brems the very next evening. I had not seen him for a while. I could not
speak to him, for he had lost his hearing. I could not write a message for him to read,
because he had lost his sight. I was told that the family communicated with him by
taking the finger of his right hand and then tracing on the palm of his left hand the name
of the person visiting. Any message had to be conveyed in this same way. I followed the
procedure by taking his finger and spelling T-O-M-M-Y M-O-N-S-O-N, the name by which
he had always known me. Brother Brems became excited and, taking my hands, placed
them on his head. I knew his desire was to receive a priesthood blessing. The driver who
had taken me to the care center joined me as we placed our hands on the head of
Brother Brems and provided the desired blessing. Afterward, tears streamed from his
sightless eyes. He grasped our hands in gratitude. Although he had not heard the
blessing we had given him, the Spirit was strong, and I believe he was inspired to know
we had provided the blessing which he needed. This sweet man could no longer see. He
could no longer hear. He was confined night and day to a small room in a care center.
And yet the smile on his face and the words he spoke touched my heart. Thank you, he
said. My Heavenly Father has been so good to me.
Within a week, just as Brother Brems had predicted, he passed away. Never did he dwell
on what he was lacking; rather, he was always deeply grateful for his many blessings.
Our Heavenly Father, who gives us so much to delight in, also knows that we learn and
grow and become stronger as we face and survive the trials through which we must
pass. We know that there are times when we will experience heartbreaking sorrow, when
we will grieve, and when we may be tested to our limits. However, such difficulties allow
us to change for the better, to rebuild our lives in the way our Heavenly Father teaches
us, and to become something different from what we werebetter than we were, more

understanding than we were, more empathetic than we were, with stronger testimonies
than we had before.
This should be our purposeto persevere and endure, yes, but also to become more
spiritually refined as we make our way through sunshine and sorrow. Were it not for
challenges to overcome and problems to solve, we would remain much as we are, with
little or no progress toward our goal of eternal life. The poet expressed much the same
thought in these words:
Good timber does not grow with ease,
The stronger wind, the stronger trees.
The further sky, the greater length.
The more the storm, the more the strength.
By sun and cold, by rain and snow,
In trees and men good timbers grow.8
Only the Master knows the depths of our trials, our pain, and our suffering. He alone
offers us eternal peace in times of adversity. He alone touches our tortured souls with His
comforting words:
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall
find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.9
Whether it is the best of times or the worst of times, He is with us. He has promised that
this will never change.
My brothers and sisters, may we have a commitment to our Heavenly Father that does
not ebb and flow with the years or the crises of our lives. We should not need to
experience difficulties for us to remember Him, and we should not be driven to humility
before giving Him our faith and trust.
May we ever strive to be close to our Heavenly Father. To do so, we must pray to Him and
listen to Him every day. We truly need Him every hour, whether they be hours of
sunshine or of rain. May His promise ever be our watchword: I will not fail thee, nor
forsake thee.10
With all the strength of my soul, I testify that God lives and loves us, that His Only
Begotten Son lived and died for us, and that the gospel of Jesus Christ is that penetrating
light which shines through the darkness of our lives. May it ever be so, I pray in the
sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2013 General Conference

Till We Meet Again

By President Thomas S. Monson

May we show increased kindness toward one another, and may we ever be
found doing the work of the Lord.
My brothers and sisters, my heart is full as we bring to a close this wonderful general
conference of the Church. We have been spiritually fed as we have listened to the
counsel and testimonies of those who have participated in each session.
We have been blessed to meet here in the magnificent Conference Center in peace and
safety. We have had unprecedented coverage of the conference, reaching across the
continents to people everywhere. Though we are physically far removed from many of
you, we feel of your spirit.
To our Brethren who have been released at this conference, may I express the heartfelt
thanks of the entire Church for your years of devoted service. Countless are those who
have been blessed by your contributions to the work of the Lord.
I express gratitude to the Tabernacle Choir and to the other choirs which participated in
this conference. The music has been beautiful and has added greatly to the Spirit we
have felt at each session.
I thank you for your prayers in my behalf and in behalf of all the General Authorities and
general officers of the Church. We are strengthened by them.
May heavens blessings be with you. May your homes be filled with love and courtesy
and with the Spirit of the Lord. May you constantly nourish your testimonies of the gospel
that they will be a protection to you against the buffetings of the adversary.
Conference is now over. As we return to our homes, may we do so safely. May the Spirit
we have felt here be and abide with us as we go about those things which occupy us
each day. May we show increased kindness toward one another, and may we ever be
found doing the work of the Lord.
My brothers and sisters, may God bless you. May His promised peace be with you now
and always. I bid you farewell until we meet again in six months time. In the name of
our Savior, even Jesus Christ the Lord, amen.

April 2014 General Conference

Welcome to Conference

By President Thomas S. Monson

We are united in our faith and in our desire to listen to and learn from the
messages which will be presented to us.
My beloved brothers and sisters, how pleased I am to welcome you to this worldwide
conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We are gathered together

as a great family, more than 15 million strong, united in our faith and in our desire to
listen to and learn from the messages which will be presented to us.
The past six months have gone by quickly as the work of the Church has moved forward
unhindered. It was my privilege just over a month ago to dedicate the Gilbert Arizona
Temple, a magnificent structure. The evening before the dedication, a cultural event was
held at the nearby Discovery Park. Twelve thousand young people performed a 90minute program. The dancing, the singing, and the musical performances were
outstanding.
This area had been experiencing an especially dry season, and I believe many prayers
had been sent heavenward over the preceding several weeks for much-needed rain.
Unfortunately, it came just before the performance and stayed for the entire production!
Despite the fact that the youth were soaked through with the rain and chilled from the
cool temperature, we all felt the Spirit of the Lord. The theme of the program, Live True
to the Faiththink about that: Live True to the Faithwas portrayed magnificently by
smiling and enthusiastic young men and young women. Despite the cold and the rain,
this was a faith-filled and inspiring experience these young people will ever treasure and
will be relating to their children and grandchildren in the years to come.
The following day, the dedication of the Gilbert Arizona Temple took place. It became the
142nd operating temple in the Church. Unlike the evening before, the day was beautiful
and filled with sunshine. The sessions were truly inspiring. Attending with me were
President Henry B. Eyring, Elder and Sister Tad R. Callister, Elder and Sister William R.
Walker, and Elder and Sister Kent F. Richards.
In May the Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple will be dedicated. Other temples are
scheduled to be completed and dedicated later this year. In 2015 we anticipate
completing and dedicating new temples in many parts of the world. This process will
continue. When all the previously announced temples are completed, we will have 170
operating temples throughout the world.
Although we are currently concentrating our efforts on completing the previously
announced temples and will not be announcing any new temples in the immediate
future, we will continue the process of determining needs and of finding locations for
temples yet to come. Announcements will then be made in future general conferences.
We are a temple-building and a temple-attending people.
Now, brothers and sisters, we are anxious to listen to the messages which will be
presented to us today and tomorrow. Those who will address us have sought heavens
help and direction as they have prepared their messages.
May weall of us, here and elsewherebe filled with the Spirit of the Lord and be
uplifted and inspired as we listen and learn. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior,
amen.

April 2014 General Conference

Be Strong and of a Good Courage

By President Thomas S. Monson

Let usall of ushave the courage to defy the consensus, the courage to
stand for principle.
My brethren, how good it is to be with you once again. I pray for heavenly help as I
respond to the opportunity to address you.
Beyond this Conference Center are additional thousands assembled in chapels and in
other settings throughout much of the world. A common thread binds all of us together,
for we have been entrusted to bear the priesthood of God.
We are here upon the earth at a remarkable period in its history. Our opportunities are
almost limitless, and yet we also face a multitude of challenges, some of them unique to
our time.
We live in a world where moral values have, in great measure, been tossed aside, where
sin is flagrantly on display, and where temptations to stray from the strait and narrow
path surround us. We are faced with persistent pressures and insidious influences tearing
down what is decent and attempting to substitute the shallow philosophies and practices
of a secular society.
Because of these and other challenges, decisions are constantly before us which can
determine our destiny. In order for us to make the correct decisions, courage is needed
the courage to say no when we should, the courage to say yes when that is appropriate,
the courage to do the right thing because it is right.
Inasmuch as the trend in society today is rapidly moving away from the values and
principles the Lord has given us, we will almost certainly be called upon to defend that
which we believe. Will we have the courage to do so?
Said President J. Reuben Clark Jr., who for many years was a member of the First
Presidency: Not unknown are cases where [those] of presumed faith have felt that,
since by affirming their full faith they might call down upon themselves the ridicule of
their unbelieving colleagues, they must either modify or explain away their faith, or
destructively dilute it, or even pretend to cast it away. Such are hypocrites.1 None of us
would wish to wear such a label, and yet are we reluctant to declare our faith in some
circumstances?
We can help ourselves in our desire to do what is right if we put ourselves in places and
participate in activities where our thoughts are influenced for good and where the Spirit
of the Lord will be comfortable.
I recall reading some time ago the counsel a father gave to his son when he went away
to school: If you ever find yourself where you shouldnt ought to be, get out! I offer to
each of you the same advice: If you ever find yourself where you shouldnt ought to be,
get out!

The call for courage comes constantly to each of us. Every day of our lives courage is
needednot just for the momentous events but more often as we make decisions or
respond to circumstances around us. Said Scottish poet and novelist Robert Louis
Stevenson: Everyday courage has few witnesses. But yours is no less noble because no
drum beats for you and no crowds shout your name.2
Courage comes in many forms. Wrote the Christian author Charles Swindoll: Courage is
not limited to the battlefield or bravely catching a thief in your house. The real tests of
courage are much quieter. They are inner tests, like remaining faithful when no ones
looking, like standing alone when youre misunderstood.3 I would add that this inner
courage also includes doing the right thing even though we may be afraid, defending our
beliefs at the risk of being ridiculed, and maintaining those beliefs even when threatened
with a loss of friends or of social status. He who stands steadfastly for that which is right
must risk becoming at times disapproved and unpopular.
While serving in the United States Navy in World War II, I learned of brave deeds,
instances of valor, and examples of courage. One which I shall never forget was the quiet
courage of an 18-year-old seamannot of our faithwho was not too proud to pray. Of
250 men in the company, he was the only one who each night knelt down by the side of
his bunk, at times amidst the jeers of bullies and the jests of unbelievers. With bowed
head, he prayed to God. He never wavered. He never faltered. He had courage.
I listened not long ago to an example of one who surely seemed to lack this inner
courage. A friend told of a spiritual and faith-promoting sacrament meeting she and her
husband had attended in their ward. A young man who held the office of priest in the
Aaronic Priesthood touched the hearts of the entire congregation as he spoke of gospel
truths and of the joys of keeping the commandments. He bore a fervent, touching
testimony as he stood at the pulpit, appearing clean and neat in his white shirt and tie.
Later that same day, as this woman and her husband drove out of their neighborhood,
they saw this same young man who had so inspired them just a few hours earlier. Now,
however, he presented a completely different picture as he walked down the sidewalk
dressed in scruffy clothesand smoking a cigarette. My friend and her husband were not
only greatly disappointed and saddened, but they were also confused by how he could so
convincingly seem to be one person in sacrament meeting and then so quickly seem to
be someone else entirely.
Brethren, are you the same person wherever you are and whatever you are doingthe
person our Heavenly Father wants you to be and the person you know you should be?
In an interview published in a national magazine, well-known American NCAA basketball
player Jabari Parker, a member of the Church, was asked to share the best advice he had
received from his father. Replied Jabari, [My father] said, Just be the same person you
are in the dark that you are in the light.4 Important advice, brethren, for all of us.
Our scriptures are filled with examples of the type of courage needed by each of us
today. The prophet Daniel exhibited supreme courage by standing up for that which he
knew to be right and by demonstrating the courage to pray, though threatened with
death were he to do so.5

Courage characterized the life of Abinadi, as shown by his willingness to offer his life
rather than to deny the truth.6
Who can help but be inspired by the lives of the 2,000 stripling sons of Helaman, who
taught and demonstrated the need for courage to follow the teachings of parents, to be
chaste and pure?7
Perhaps each of these scriptural accounts is crowned by the example of Moroni, who had
the courage to persevere in righteousness to the very end.8
Throughout his life, the Prophet Joseph Smith provided countless examples of courage.
One of the most dramatic occurred as he and other brethren were chained together
imagine, chained togetherand held in an unfinished cabin next to the courthouse in
Richmond, Missouri. Parley P. Pratt, who was among those held captive, wrote of one
particular night: We had lain as if in sleep till the hour of midnight had passed, and our
ears and hearts had been pained, while we had listened for hours to the obscene jests,
the horrid oaths, the dreadful blasphemies and filthy language of our guards.
Continued Elder Pratt:
I had listened till I became so disgusted, shocked, horrified, and so filled with the spirit
of indignant justice that I could scarcely refrain from rising upon my feet and rebuking
the guards; but [I] had said nothing to Joseph, or any one else, although I lay next to him
and knew he was awake. On a sudden he arose to his feet, and spoke in a voice of
thunder, or as the roaring lion, uttering, as near as I can recollect, the following words:
SILENCE. In the name of Jesus Christ I rebuke you, and command you to be still; I will
not live another minute and hear such language. Cease such talk, or you or I die THIS
INSTANT!
Joseph stood erect in terrible majesty, as described by Elder Pratt. He was chained,
without a weapon, and yet he was calm and dignified. He looked down upon the quailing
guards, who were shrinking into a corner or crouching at his feet. These seemingly
incorrigible men begged his pardon and remained quiet.9
Not all acts of courage bring such spectacular or immediate results, and yet all of them
do bring peace of mind and a knowledge that right and truth have been defended.
It is impossible to stand upright when one plants his roots in the shifting sands of popular
opinion and approval. Needed is the courage of a Daniel, an Abinadi, a Moroni, or a
Joseph Smith in order for us to hold strong and fast to that which we know is right. They
had the courage to do not that which was easy but that which was right.
We will all face fear, experience ridicule, and meet opposition. Let usall of ushave the
courage to defy the consensus, the courage to stand for principle. Courage, not
compromise, brings the smile of Gods approval. Courage becomes a living and an
attractive virtue when it is regarded not only as a willingness to die manfully but also as
the determination to live decently. As we move forward, striving to live as we should, we
will surely receive help from the Lord and can find comfort in His words. I love His
promise recorded in the book of Joshua:

I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the
Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.10
My beloved brethren, with the courage of our convictions, may we declare, with the
Apostle Paul, I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.11 And then, with that same
courage, may we follow Pauls counsel: Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in
conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.12
Catastrophic conflicts come and go, but the war waged for the souls of men continues
without abatement. Like a clarion call comes the word of the Lord to you, to me, and to
priesthood holders everywhere: Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act
in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.13 Then we will be, as the Apostle
Peter declared, even a royal priesthood,14 united in purpose and endowed with power
from on high.15
May each one leave here tonight with the determination and the courage to say, with Job
of old, While my breath is in me, I will not remove mine integrity from me.16 That
this may be so is my humble prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, amen.

April 2014 General Conference

Lovethe Essence of the Gospel

By President Thomas S. Monson

We cannot truly love God if we do not love our fellow travelers on this
mortal journey.
My beloved brothers and sisters, when our Savior ministered among men, He was asked
by the inquiring lawyer, Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Matthew records that Jesus responded:
Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy
mind.
This is the first and great commandment.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.1
Mark concludes the account with the Saviors statement: There is none other
commandment greater than these.2
We cannot truly love God if we do not love our fellow travelers on this mortal journey.
Likewise, we cannot fully love our fellowmen if we do not love God, the Father of us all.
The Apostle John tells us, This commandment have we from him, That he who loveth
God love his brother also.3 We are all spirit children of our Heavenly Father and, as

such, are brothers and sisters. As we keep this truth in mind, loving all of Gods children
will become easier.
Actually, love is the very essence of the gospel, and Jesus Christ is our Exemplar. His life
was a legacy of love. The sick He healed; the downtrodden He lifted; the sinner He
saved. At the end the angry mob took His life. And yet there rings from Golgothas hill
the words: Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do4a crowning
expression in mortality of compassion and love.
There are many attributes which are manifestations of love, such as kindness, patience,
selflessness, understanding, and forgiveness. In all our associations, these and other
such attributes will help make evident the love in our hearts.
Usually our love will be shown in our day-to-day interactions one with another. All
important will be our ability to recognize someones need and then to respond. I have
always cherished the sentiment expressed in the short poem:
I have wept in the night
For the shortness of sight
That to somebodys need made me blind;
But I never have yet
Felt a tinge of regret
For being a little too kind.5
I recently was made aware of a touching example of loving kindnessone that had
unforeseen results. The year was 1933, when because of the Great Depression,
employment opportunities were scarce. The location was the eastern part of the United
States. Arlene Biesecker had just graduated from high school. After a lengthy search for
employment, she was finally able to obtain work at a clothing mill as a seamstress. The
mill workers were paid only for each of the correctly completed pieces they sewed
together daily. The more pieces they produced, the more they were paid.
One day shortly after starting at the mill, Arlene was faced with a procedure that had her
confused and frustrated. She sat at her sewing machine trying to unpick her
unsuccessful attempt to complete the piece on which she was working. There seemed to
be no one to help her, for all of the other seamstresses were hurrying to complete as
many pieces as they could. Arlene felt helpless and hopeless. Quietly, she began to cry.
Across from Arlene sat Bernice Rock. She was older and more experienced as a
seamstress. Observing Arlenes distress, Bernice left her own work and went to Arlenes
side, kindly giving her instruction and help. She stayed until Arlene gained confidence
and was able to successfully complete the piece. Bernice then went back to her own
machine, having missed the opportunity to complete as many pieces as she could have,
had she not helped.
With this one act of loving kindness, Bernice and Arlene became lifelong friends. Each
eventually married and had children. Sometime in the 1950s, Bernice, who was a
member of the Church, gave Arlene and her family a copy of the Book of Mormon. In
1960, Arlene and her husband and children were baptized members of the Church. Later
they were sealed in a holy temple of God.

As a result of the compassion shown by Bernice as she went out of her way to help one
whom she didnt know but who was in distress and needed assistance, countless
individuals, both living and dead, now enjoy the saving ordinances of the gospel.
Every day of our lives we are given opportunities to show love and kindness to those
around us. Said President Spencer W. Kimball: We must remember that those mortals
we meet in parking lots, offices, elevators, and elsewhere are that portion of mankind
God has given us to love and to serve. It will do us little good to speak of the general
brotherhood of mankind if we cannot regard those who are all around us as our brothers
and sisters.6
Often our opportunities to show our love come unexpectedly. An example of such an
opportunity appeared in a newspaper article in October 1981. So impressed was I with
the love and compassion related therein that I have kept the clipping in my files for over
30 years.
The article indicates that an Alaska Airlines nonstop flight from Anchorage, Alaska, to
Seattle, Washingtona flight carrying 150 passengerswas diverted to a remote
Alaskan town in order to transport a gravely injured child. The two-year-old boy had
severed an artery in his arm when he fell on a piece of glass while playing near his
home. The town was 450 miles (725 km) south of Anchorage and was certainly not on
the flight path. However, medics at the scene had sent out a frantic request for help, and
so the flight was diverted to pick up the child and take him to Seattle so that he could be
treated in a hospital.
When the flight touched down near the remote town, medics informed the pilot that the
boy was bleeding so badly he could not survive the flight to Seattle. A decision was made
to fly another 200 miles (320 km) out of the way to Juneau, Alaska, the nearest city with
a hospital.
After transporting the boy to Juneau, the flight headed for Seattle, now hours behind
schedule. Not one passenger complained, even though most of them would miss
appointments and connecting flights. In fact, as the minutes and hours ticked by, they
took up a collection, raising a considerable sum for the boy and his family.
As the flight was about to land in Seattle, the passengers broke into a cheer when the
pilot announced that he had received word by radio that the boy was going to be all
right.7
To my mind come the words of the scripture: Charity is the pure love of Christ, and
whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.8
Brothers and sisters, some of our greatest opportunities to demonstrate our love will be
within the walls of our own homes. Love should be the very heart of family life, and yet
sometimes it is not. There can be too much impatience, too much arguing, too many
fights, too many tears. Lamented President Gordon B. Hinckley: Why is it that the [ones]
we love [most] become so frequently the targets of our harsh words? Why is it that [we]
sometimes speak as if with daggers that cut to the quick?9 The answers to these
questions may be different for each of us, and yet the bottom line is that the reasons do
not matter. If we would keep the commandment to love one another, we must treat each
other with kindness and respect.

Of course there will be times when discipline needs to be meted out. Let us remember,
however, the counsel found in the Doctrine and Covenantsnamely, that when it is
necessary for us to reprove another, we afterward show forth an increase of love.10
I would hope that we would strive always to be considerate and to be sensitive to the
thoughts and feelings and circumstances of those around us. Let us not demean or
belittle. Rather, let us be compassionate and encouraging. We must be careful that we
do not destroy another persons confidence through careless words or actions.
Forgiveness should go hand in hand with love. In our families, as well as with our friends,
there can be hurt feelings and disagreements. Again, it doesnt really matter how small
the issue was. It cannot and should not be left to canker, to fester, and ultimately to
destroy. Blame keeps wounds open. Only forgiveness heals.
A lovely lady who has since passed away visited with me one day and unexpectedly
recounted some regrets. She spoke of an incident which had taken place many years
earlier and involved a neighboring farmer, once a good friend but with whom she and her
husband had disagreed on multiple occasions. One day the farmer asked if he could take
a shortcut across her property to reach his own acreage. At this point she paused in her
narrative to me and, with a tremor in her voice, said, Brother Monson, I didnt let him
cross our property then or ever but required him to take the long way around on foot to
reach his property. I was wrong, and I regret it. Hes gone now, but oh, I wish I could say
to him, Im so sorry. How I wish I had a second chance to be kind.
As I listened to her, there came to my mind the doleful observation of John Greenleaf
Whittier: Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: It might have
been!11 Brothers and sisters, as we treat others with love and kind consideration, we
will avoid such regrets.
Love is expressed in many recognizable ways: a smile, a wave, a kind comment, a
compliment. Other expressions may be more subtle, such as showing interest in
anothers activities, teaching a principle with kindness and patience, visiting one who is
ill or homebound. These words and actions and many others can communicate love.
Dale Carnegie, a well-known American author and lecturer, believed that each person
has within himself or herself the power to increase the sum total of [the] worlds
happiness by giving a few words of sincere appreciation to someone who is lonely or
discouraged. Said he, Perhaps you will forget tomorrow the kind words you say today,
but the recipient may cherish them over a lifetime.12
May we begin now, this very day, to express love to all of Gods children, whether they
be our family members, our friends, mere acquaintances, or total strangers. As we arise
each morning, let us determine to respond with love and kindness to whatever might
come our way.
Beyond comprehension, my brothers and sisters, is the love of God for us. Because of
this love, He sent His Son, who loved us enough to give His life for us, that we might
have eternal life. As we come to understand this incomparable gift, our hearts will be
filled with love for our Eternal Father, for our Savior, and for all mankind. That such may
be so is my earnest prayer in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2014 General Conference

Until We Meet Again

By President Thomas S. Monson

May the Spirit we have felt during these past two days be and abide with us
as we go about those things which occupy us each day.
My brothers and sisters, what a wonderful conference this has been. We have been fed
spiritually as we have listened to the inspired words of the men and women who have
addressed us. The music has been superb, the messages have been prepared and
delivered under the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and the prayers have drawn us nearer
to heaven. We have been uplifted in every way as we have participated together.
I hope that we will take the time to read the conference messages when they become
available on LDS.org within the next few days and when they are printed in coming
issues of the Ensign and Liahona magazines, for they are deserving of our careful review
and study.
I know you join with me in expressing our sincere gratitude to those brethren and sisters
who were released during this conference. They have served well and have made
significant contributions to the work of the Lord. Their dedication has been complete.
We have also sustained, by uplifted hands, brethren who have been called to new
positions of responsibility. We welcome them and want them to know that we look
forward to serving with them in the cause of the Master.
As we ponder the messages we have heard, may we resolve to do a little better than we
have done in the past. May we be kind and loving to those who do not share our beliefs
and our standards. The Savior brought to this earth a message of love and goodwill to all
men and women. May we ever follow His example.
We face many serious challenges in the world today, but I assure you that our Heavenly
Father is mindful of us. He will guide and bless us as we put our faith and trust in Him
and will see us through whatever difficulties come our way.
May heavens blessings be with each of us. May our homes be filled with love and
courtesy and with the Spirit of the Lord. May we constantly nourish our testimonies of
the gospel, that they will be a protection for us against the buffetings of the adversary.
May the Spirit we have felt during these past two days be and abide with us as we go
about those things which occupy us each day, and may we ever be found doing the work
of the Lord.
I bear testimony that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He guides and
directs His Church here upon the earth. I leave with you my witness and my testimony
that God our Eternal Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He is
personal and real. May we realize how close to us He is willing to come, how far He is
willing to go to help us, and how much He loves us.

My brothers and sisters, may God bless you. May His promised peace be with you now
and always.
I bid you farewell until we meet again in six months time, and I do so in the name of
Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, amen.

October 2014 General Conference

Welcome to Conference

By President Thomas S. Monson

As we listen, may our hearts be touched and our faith increased.
My brothers and sisters, how pleased I am to welcome you to this great world
conference. We are gathered together in locations around the world to listen to and learn
from the brethren and sisters whom we have sustained as General Authorities and
general officers of the Church. They have sought heavens help concerning the messages
which they will present, and they have felt inspiration regarding what will be said.
This conference marks the 90-year anniversary of radio broadcasts of general
conference. During the October conference of 1924, the sessions were broadcast on the
radio for the first time through Church-owned KSL. This conference also marks the 65year anniversary of television broadcasts of conference. At the general conference held
in October 1949, the sessions were first televised throughout the Salt Lake area over KSL
television.
We acknowledge the blessings of modern media in allowing millions of members of the
Church to watch or listen to general conference. The sessions of this weekend are being
broadcast via television, radio, cable, satellite transmission, and the Internet, including
on mobile devices.
During the past six months since we last met, one new temple has been dedicated and
one rededicated. In May, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf dedicated the Fort Lauderdale
Florida Temple. A wonderful youth cultural celebration was presented the day prior to the
dedication. The following day, on Sunday, May 4, the temple was dedicated in three
sessions.
Just two weeks ago it was my privilege to rededicate the Ogden Utah Temple, originally
dedicated in 1972 by President Joseph Fielding Smith. A grand cultural celebration took
place the day before the rededication, with so many youth participating that two
separate performances were presented, with a different cast for each. In all, 16,000
youth participated. The rededication services took place the following day, with many of
the Brethren participating, along with the auxiliary leaders and the temple president, his
counselors, and their wives.
Our temple building continues in earnest. Next month the new Phoenix Arizona Temple
will be dedicated, and next year, in 2015, we anticipate dedicating or rededicating at
least five temples, with more possible, depending on completion.

As I mentioned in April, when all the previously announced temples are constructed and
dedicated, we will have 170 operating temples throughout the world. Because we are
concentrating our efforts on completing temples which were previously announced, we
are not at the present time announcing any new temples. However, in the future, as we
identify needs and locate properties, announcements of additional temples will be made.
The Church continues to grow. We are now more than 15 million strong and increasing in
numbers. Our missionary efforts are going forward unhindered. We have over 88,000
missionaries serving, sharing the gospel message the world over. We reaffirm that
missionary work is a priesthood duty, and we encourage all worthy and able young men
to serve. We are very grateful for the young women who also serve. They make a
significant contribution, although they are not under the same mandate to serve as are
the young men.
Now I invite you to give your attention to the brethren and sisters who will participate
today and tomorrow in our conference sessions. All who have been asked to speak feel a
great responsibility in doing so. As we listen, may our hearts be touched and our faith
increased, I humbly pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

October 2014 General Conference

Guided Safely Home

By President Thomas S. Monson

We look heavenward for that unfailing sense of direction, that we might
chart and follow a wise and proper course.
Brethren, we are assembled as a mighty body of the priesthood, both here in the
Conference Center and in locations throughout the world. I am honored yet humbled by
the responsibility which is mine to address a few remarks to you. I pray for the Spirit of
the Lord to attend me as I do so.
Seventy-five years ago, on February 14, 1939, in Hamburg, Germany, a public holiday
was celebrated. Amid fervent speeches, cheering throngs, and the playing of patriotic
anthems, the new battleship Bismarck was put to sea via the River Elbe. This, the most
powerful vessel afloat, was a breathtaking spectacle of armor and machinery.
Construction required more than 57,000 blueprints for the 380-millimeter, radarcontrolled, double-gun turrets. The vessel featured 28,000 miles (45,000 km) of electrical
circuits. It weighed over 35,000 tons, and armor plate provided maximum safety.
Majestic in appearance, gigantic in size, awesome in firepower, the mighty colossus was
considered unsinkable.
The Bismarcks appointment with destiny came more than two years later, when on May
24, 1941, the two most powerful warships in the British Navy, the Prince of Wales and
the Hood, engaged in battle the Bismarck and the German cruiser Prinz Eugen. Within
five minutes the Bismarck had sent to the depths of the Atlantic the Hood and all but
three men of a crew of over 1,400. The other British battleship, the Prince of Wales, had
suffered heavy damage and turned away.

Over the next three days the Bismarck was engaged again and again by British warships
and aircraft. In all, the British concentrated the strength of five battleships, two aircraft
carriers, 11 cruisers, and 21 destroyers in an effort to find and to sink the mighty
Bismarck.
During these battles, shell after shell inflicted only superficial damage on the Bismarck.
Was it unsinkable after all? Then a torpedo scored a lucky hit, which jammed the
Bismarcks rudder. Repair efforts proved fruitless. With guns primed and the crews at
ready, the Bismarck could only steer a slow circle. Just beyond reach was the powerful
German air force. The Bismarck could not reach the safety of home port. Neither could
provide the needed haven, for the Bismarck had lost the ability to steer a charted
course. No rudder, no help, no port. The end drew near. British guns blazed as the
German crew scuttled and sank the once seemingly indestructible vessel. The hungry
waves of the Atlantic first lapped at the sides and then swallowed the pride of the
German navy. The Bismarck was no more.1
Like the Bismarck, each of us is a miracle of engineering. Our creation, however, was not
limited by human genius. Man can devise the most complex machines but cannot give
them life or bestow upon them the powers of reason and judgment. These are divine
gifts, bestowed only by God.
Like the vital rudder of a ship, brethren, we have been provided a way to determine the
direction we travel. The lighthouse of the Lord beckons to all as we sail the seas of life.
Our purpose is to steer an undeviating course toward our desired goaleven the
celestial kingdom of God. A man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder, never
likely to reach home port. To us comes the signal: chart your course, set your sail,
position your rudder, and proceed.
As with the mighty Bismarck, so it is with man. The thrust of the turbines and the power
of the propellers are useless without that sense of direction, that harnessing of the
energy, that directing of the power provided by the rudder, hidden from view, relatively
small in size but absolutely essential in function.
Our Father provided the sun, the moon, and the starsheavenly galaxies to guide
mariners who sail the lanes of the sea. To us, as we walk the pathway of life, He provides
a clear map and points the way toward our desired destination. He cautions: beware the
detours, the pitfalls, the traps. We cannot be deceived by those who would lead us
astray, those clever pied pipers of sin beckoning here or there. Instead, we pause to
pray; we listen to that still, small voice which speaks to the depths of our souls the
Masters gentle invitation, Come, follow me.2
Yet there are those who do not hear, who will not obey, who prefer to walk a path of their
own making. Too often they succumb to the temptations which surround all of us and
which can appear so enticing.
As bearers of the priesthood, we have been placed on earth in troubled times. We live in
a complex world with currents of conflict everywhere to be found. Political schemes ruin
the stability of nations, despots grasp for power, and segments of society seem forever
downtrodden, deprived of opportunity and left with a feeling of failure. The sophistries of
men ring in our ears, and sin surrounds us.

Ours is the responsibility to be worthy of all the glorious blessings our Father in Heaven
has in store for us. Wherever we go, our priesthood goes with us. Are we standing in holy
places? Please, before you put yourself and your priesthood in jeopardy by venturing into
places or participating in activities which are not worthy of you or of that priesthood,
pause to consider the consequences.
We who have been ordained to the priesthood of God can make a difference. When we
maintain our personal purity and honor our priesthood, we become righteous examples
for others to follow. The Apostle Paul admonished, Be thou an example of the believers,
in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.3 He also wrote that the
followers of Christ should be as lights in the world.4 Providing an example of
righteousness can help to illuminate an increasingly dark world.
Many of you will remember President N. Eldon Tanner, who served as a counselor to four
Presidents of the Church. He provided an undeviating example of righteousness
throughout his career in industry, during service in the government in Canada, and as an
Apostle of Jesus Christ. He gave us this inspired counsel: Nothing will bring greater joy
and success than to live according to the teachings of the gospel. Be an example; be an
influence for good.
He continued: Every one of us has been foreordained for some work as [Gods] chosen
servant on whom he has seen fit to confer the priesthood and power to act in his name.
Always remember that people are looking to you for leadership and you are influencing
the lives of individuals either for good or for bad, which influence will be felt for
generations to come.5
We are strengthened by the truth that the greatest force in the world today is the power
of God as it works through man. To sail safely the seas of mortality, we need the
guidance of that Eternal Marinereven the great Jehovah. We reach out, we reach up to
obtain heavenly help.
A well-known example of one who did not reach upward is that of Cain, son of Adam and
Eve. Powerful in potential but weak of will, Cain permitted greed, envy, disobedience,
and even murder to jam that personal rudder which would have guided him to safety and
exaltation. The downward gaze replaced the upward look; Cain fell.
In another time and by a wicked king, a servant of God was tested. Aided by the
inspiration of heaven, Daniel interpreted for the king the writing on the wall. Concerning
the proffered rewardseven a royal robe, a necklace of gold, and political powerDaniel
said, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another.6 Great riches and
power had been offered to Daniel, rewards representing the things of the world and not
of God. Daniel resisted and remained faithful.
Later, when Daniel worshipped God despite a decree declaring such to be forbidden, he
was thrown into a den of lions. The biblical account tells us that the following morning,
Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him,
because he believed in God.7 In a time of critical need, Daniels determination to
steer a steady course yielded divine protection and provided a sanctuary of safety. Such
protection and safety can be ours as we also steer that steady course toward our eternal
home.

The clock of history, like the sands of the hourglass, marks the passage of time. A new
cast occupies the stage of life. The problems of our day loom ominously before us.
Throughout the history of the world, Satan has worked tirelessly for the destruction of
the followers of the Savior. If we succumb to his enticings, welike the mighty Bismarck
will lose that rudder which can guide us to safety. Instead, surrounded by the
sophistication of modern living, we look heavenward for that unfailing sense of direction,
that we might chart and follow a wise and proper course. Our Heavenly Father will not
leave our sincere petition unanswered. As we seek heavenly help, our rudder, unlike that
of the Bismarck, will not fail.
As we venture forth on our individual voyages, may we sail safely the seas of life. May
we have the courage of a Daniel, that we might remain true and faithful despite the sin
and temptation which surround us. May our testimonies be as deep and as strong as that
of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, who, when confronted by one who sought in every way
possible to destroy his faith, declared, I could not be shaken.8
With the rudder of faith guiding our passage, brethren, we too will find our way safely
homehome to God, to dwell with Him eternally. That such may be so for each of us, I
pray in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, amen.

October 2014 General Conference

Ponder the Path of Thy Feet

By President Thomas S. Monson

As we look to Jesus as our Exemplar and as we follow in His footsteps, we
can return safely to our Heavenly Father.
My beloved brothers and sisters, I am humbled as I stand before you this morning. I ask
for your faith and prayers in my behalf as I share with you my message.
All of us commenced a wonderful and essential journey when we left the spirit world and
entered this often-challenging stage called mortality. The primary purposes of our
existence upon the earth are to obtain a body of flesh and bones, to gain experience that
could come only through separation from our heavenly parents, and to see if we would
keep the commandments. In the book of Abraham chapter 3 we read: And we will prove
them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall
command them.1
When we came to the earth, we brought with us that great gift from Godeven our
agency. In thousands of ways we are privileged to choose for ourselves. Here we learn
from the hard taskmaster of experience. We discern between good and evil. We
differentiate as to the bitter and the sweet. We learn that decisions determine destiny.
I am certain we left our Father with an overwhelming desire to return to Him, that we
might gain the exaltation He planned for us and which we ourselves so much wanted.
Although we are left to find and follow that path which will lead us back to our Father in
Heaven, He did not send us here without direction and guidance. Rather, He has given us

the tools we need, and He will assist us as we seek His help and strive to do all in our
power to endure to the end and gain eternal life.
To help guide us we have the words of God and of His Son found in our holy scriptures.
We have the counsel and teachings of Gods prophets. Of paramount importance, we
have been provided with a perfect example to followeven the example of our Lord and
Savior, Jesus Christand we have been instructed to follow that example. Said the Savior
Himself: Come, follow me.2 The works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also
do.3 He posed the question, What manner of men ought ye to be? And then He
answered, Verily I say unto you, even as I am.4 He marked the path and led the
way.5
As we look to Jesus as our Exemplar and as we follow in His footsteps, we can return
safely to our Heavenly Father to live with Him forever. Said the prophet Nephi, Unless a
man shall endure to the end, in following the example of the Son of the living God, he
cannot be saved.6
One woman, each time she related experiences she had during a visit to the Holy Land,
would exclaim, I walked where Jesus walked!
She had been in the vicinity where Jesus lived and taught. Perhaps she stood on a rock
on which He had once stood or looked at a mountain range He had once gazed upon. The
experiences, in and of themselves, were thrilling to her; but physically walking where
Jesus walked is less important than walking as He walked. Emulating His actions and
following His example are far more important than trying to retrace the remnants of the
trails He traversed in mortality.
When Jesus extended to a certain rich man the invitation, Come, follow me,7 He did
not intend merely that the rich man follow Him up and down the hills and valleys of the
countryside.
We need not walk by the shores of Galilee or among the Judean hills to walk where Jesus
walked. All of us can walk the path He walked when, with His words ringing in our ears,
His Spirit filling our hearts, and His teachings guiding our lives, we choose to follow Him
as we journey through mortality. His example lights the way. Said He, I am the way, the
truth, and the life.8
As we examine the path Jesus walked, we will see that it took Him through many of the
same challenges we ourselves will face in life.
For example, Jesus walked the path of disappointment. Although He experienced many
disappointments, one of the most poignant was depicted in His lament over Jerusalem as
He closed His public ministry. The children of Israel had rejected the safety of the
protecting wing which He had offered them. As He looked out over the city soon to be
abandoned to destruction, He was overcome by emotions of deep sorrow. In anguish He
cried out, O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are
sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth
gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!9
Jesus walked the path of temptation. Lucifer, that evil one, amassing his greatest
strength, his most inviting sophistry, tempted Him who had fasted for 40 days and 40

nights. Jesus did not succumb; rather, He resisted each temptation. His parting words:
Get thee hence, Satan.10
Jesus walked the path of pain. Consider Gethsemane, where He was in an agony and
his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.11 And none
can forget His suffering on the cruel cross.
Each of us will walk the path of disappointment, perhaps because of an opportunity lost,
a power misused, a loved ones choices, or a choice we ourselves make. The path of
temptation too will be the path of each. We read in the 29th section of the Doctrine and
Covenants: And it must needs be that the devil should tempt the children of men, or
they could not be agents unto themselves.12
Likewise shall we walk the path of pain. We, as servants, can expect no more than the
Master, who left mortality only after great pain and suffering.
While we will find on our path bitter sorrow, we can also find great happiness.
We, with Jesus, can walk the path of obedience. It will not always be easy, but let our
watchword be the heritage bequeathed us by Samuel: Behold, to obey is better than
sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.13 Let us remember that the end result of
disobedience is captivity and death, while the reward for obedience is liberty and eternal
life.
We, like Jesus, can walk the path of service. As a glowing searchlight of goodness is the
life of Jesus as He ministered among men. He brought strength to the limbs of the
cripple, sight to the eyes of the blind, hearing to the ears of the deaf.
Jesus walked the path of prayer. He taught us how to pray by giving us the beautiful
prayer we know as the Lords Prayer. And who can forget His prayer in Gethsemane, Not
my will, but thine, be done?14
Other instructions given to us by the Savior are at our fingertips, found in the holy
scriptures. In His Sermon on the Mount, He tells us to be merciful, to be humble, to be
righteous, to be pure in heart, to be peacemakers. He instructs us to stand up bravely for
our beliefs, even when we are ridiculed and persecuted. He asks us to let our lights shine
so that others may see them and may desire to glorify our Father in Heaven. He teaches
us to be morally clean in both our thoughts and our actions. He tells us it is far more
important to lay up treasures in heaven than on earth.15
His parables teach with power and authority. With the account of the good Samaritan, He
teaches us to love and to serve our neighbors.16 In His parable of the talents, He
teaches us to improve ourselves and to strive for perfection.17 With the parable of the
lost sheep, He instructs us to go to the rescue of those who have left the path and have
lost their way.18
As we strive to place Christ at the center of our lives by learning His words, by following
His teachings, and by walking in His path, He has promised to share with us the eternal
life that He died to gain. There is no higher end than this, that we should choose to
accept His discipline and become His disciples and do His work throughout our lives.
Nothing else, no other choice we make, can make of us what He can.

As I think of those who have truly tried to follow the example of the Savior and who have
walked in His path, there comes readily to my mind the names of Gustav and Margarete
Wackertwo of the most Christlike individuals I have ever known. They were native
Germans who had immigrated to eastern Canada, and I met them when I served as a
mission president there. Brother Wacker earned his living as a barber. Though their
means were limited, they shared all they had. They were not blessed with children, but
they nurtured all who entered their home. Men and women of learning and sophistication
sought out these humble, unlettered servants of God and counted themselves fortunate
if they could spend an hour in their presence.
Their appearance was ordinary, their English halting and somewhat difficult to
understand, their home unpretentious. They didnt own a car or a television, nor did they
do any of the things to which the world usually pays attention. Yet the faithful beat a
path to their door in order to partake of the spirit that was there. Their home was a
heaven on earth, and the spirit they radiated was of pure peace and goodness.
We too can have that spirit and can share it with the world as we walk the path of our
Savior and follow His perfect example.
We read in Proverbs the admonition, Ponder the path of thy feet.19 As we do, we will
have the faith, even the desire, to walk the path which Jesus walked. We will have no
doubt that we are on a path which our Father would have us follow. The Saviors example
provides a framework for everything that we do, and His words provide an unfailing
guide. His path will take us safely home. May this be our blessing, I pray in the name of
Jesus Christ, whom I love, whom I serve, and of whom I testify, amen.

October 2014 General Conference

Until We Meet Again

By President Thomas S. Monson

May we all ponder the truths we have heard, and may they help us to
become even more valiant disciples.
My brothers and sisters, we have experienced two glorious days of inspired messages.
Our hearts have been touched and our faith strengthened as we have partaken of the
spirit which has been present during these conference sessions. As we conclude, we
thank our Heavenly Father for His many blessings to us.
We have been lifted and inspired by the beautiful music that has been provided during
the sessions. The prayers which have been given have drawn us nearer to heaven.
May I express the heartfelt thanks of the entire Church to our Brethren who have been
released at this conference. We will miss them. Their contributions to the work of the
Lord have been enormous and will be felt throughout generations to come.
May we return to our homes with a resolve in our hearts to be a little better than we
have been in the past. May we be a little kinder and more thoughtful. May we reach out

in helpfulness, not only to our fellow members but also to those who are not of our faith.
As we associate with them, may we show our respect for them.
There are those who struggle every day with challenges. Let us extend to them our
concern, as well as a helping hand. As we care for each other, we will be blessed.
May we remember the elderly and those who are homebound. As we take time to visit
them, they will know that they are loved and valued. May we follow the mandate to
succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble
knees.1
May we be people of honesty and integrity, trying to do the right thing at all times and in
all circumstances. May we be faithful followers of Christ, examples of righteousness, thus
becoming lights in the world.2
My brothers and sisters, I thank you for your prayers in my behalf. They strengthen me
and lift me as I strive with all my heart and strength to do Gods will and to serve Him
and to serve you.
As we leave this conference, I invoke the blessings of heaven upon each of you. May you
who are away from your homes return to them safely and find all in order. May we all
ponder the truths we have heard, and may they help us to become even more valiant
disciples than we were when this conference began.
Until we meet again in six months time, I ask the Lords blessings to be upon you and,
indeed, upon all of us, and I do so in His holy nameeven Jesus Christ, our Lord and
Savioramen.

April 2015 General Conference

The Priesthooda Sacred Gift

By President Thomas S. Monson

Each of us has been entrusted with one of the most precious gifts ever
bestowed upon mankind.
One of my most vivid memories is attending priesthood meeting as a newly ordained
deacon and singing during the opening hymn, Come, all ye sons of God who have
received the priesthood.1 Tonight, to all assembled here in the Conference Center and,
indeed, throughout the world, I echo the spirit of that special hymn and say to you:
Come, all ye sons of God who have received the priesthood, let us consider our callings;
let us reflect on our responsibilities; let us determine our duty; and let us follow Jesus
Christ, our Lord. While we may differ in age, in custom, or in nationality, we are united as
one in our priesthood callings.
To each of us, the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood to Oliver Cowdery and Joseph
Smith by John the Baptist is most significant. Likewise, the restoration of the Melchizedek
Priesthood to Joseph and Oliver by Peter, James, and John is a cherished event.

Let us take most seriously the callings, the responsibilities, and the duties which come
with the priesthood we hold.
I felt a great responsibility when I was called to be secretary of my deacons quorum. I
prepared most conscientiously the records I kept, for I wanted to do the very best I knew
how to do in that calling. I took great pride in my work. Doing all I can, to the very best of
my ability, has been my goal in any position I have ever held.
I hope each young man who has been ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood is given a
spiritual awareness of the sacredness of his ordained calling, as well as opportunities to
magnify that calling. I received such an opportunity as a deacon when the bishopric
asked that I take the sacrament to a shut-in who lived about a mile from our chapel. That
special Sunday morning, as I knocked on Brother Wrights door and heard his feeble
voice call, Come in, I entered not only his humble cottage but also a room filled with
the Spirit of the Lord. I approached Brother Wrights bedside and carefully placed a piece
of the bread to his lips. I then held the cup of water, that he might drink. As I departed, I
saw tears in his eyes as he said, God bless you, my boy. And God did bless mewith
an appreciation for the sacred emblems of the sacrament and for the priesthood which I
held.
No deacon, teacher, or priest from our ward will ever forget the memorable visits we
made to Clarkston, Utah, to the gravesite of Martin Harris, one of the Three Witnesses of
the Book of Mormon. As we surrounded the tall granite shaft which marks his grave, and
as one of the quorum leaders read to us those penetrating words from The Testimony of
Three Witnesses, found at the beginning of the Book of Mormon, we developed a love
for that sacred record and for the truths found therein.
During those years our objective was to become as the sons of Mosiah. Of them it was
said:
They had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound
understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the
word of God.
But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore
they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they
taught with power and authority of God.2
I cannot think of a more worthy goal for a young man to have than to be described as
were the valiant and righteous sons of Mosiah.
As I approached my 18th birthday and prepared to enter the mandatory military service
required of young men during World War II, I was recommended to receive the
Melchizedek Priesthood, but first I needed to telephone my stake president, Paul C. Child,
for an interview. He was one who loved and understood the holy scriptures, and it was
his intent that all others should similarly love and understand them. Having heard from
some of my friends of his rather detailed and searching interviews, I desired minimum
exposure of my scriptural knowledge; therefore, when I called him I suggested we meet
the following Sunday at a time I knew was just an hour before his sacrament meeting
time.

His response: Oh, Brother Monson, that would not provide us sufficient time to peruse
the scriptures. He then suggested a time three hours before his sacrament meeting,
and he instructed me to bring with me my personally marked and referenced set of
scriptures.
When I arrived at his home on Sunday, I was greeted warmly, and then the interview
began. President Child said, Brother Monson, you hold the Aaronic Priesthood. Have you
ever had angels minister to you? I replied that I had not. When he asked if I knew I was
entitled to such, I again replied that I had not known.
He instructed, Brother Monson, repeat from memory the 13th section of the Doctrine
and Covenants.
I began, Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood
of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels
Stop, President Child directed. Then, in a calm, kindly tone, he counseled, Brother
Monson, never forget that as a holder of the Aaronic Priesthood you are entitled to the
ministering of angels.
It was almost as though an angel were in the room that day. I have never forgotten the
interview. I yet feel the spirit of that solemn occasion as we together read of the
responsibilities, the duties, and the blessings of the Aaronic Priesthood and the
Melchizedek Priesthoodblessings which come not only to us but also to our families and
to others we will have the privilege to serve.
I was ordained an elder, and on the day of my departure for active duty with the navy, a
member of my ward bishopric joined my family and friends at the train station to bid me
farewell. Just before train time, he placed in my hand a small volume titled Missionary
Handbook. I laughed and commented that I wasnt going on a mission.
He answered, Take it anyway. It may come in handy.
It did. I needed a hard, rectangular object to place in the bottom of my seabag so that
my clothing would stay more firm and would thus be less wrinkled. The Missionary
Handbook was just what I needed, and it served well in my seabag for 12 weeks.
The night before our Christmas leave, our thoughts were of home. The barracks were
quiet, but then the silence was broken by my buddy in the adjoining bunka Mormon
boy, Leland Merrillwho began to moan in pain. I inquired concerning the reason, and he
said he felt really sick. He did not want to go to the base dispensary, for he knew that
doing such would prevent his going home the following day.
He seemed to grow worse as the hours passed. Finally, knowing that I was an elder, he
asked me to give him a priesthood blessing.
I had never before given a priesthood blessing, I had never received a blessing, and I had
never witnessed a blessing being given. As I prayed silently for help, I remembered the
Missionary Handbook in the bottom of my seabag. I quickly emptied the bag and took
the book to the night-light. There I read how one blesses the sick. With many curious
sailors looking on, I proceeded with the blessing. Before I could put everything back into

my bag, Leland Merrill was sleeping like a child. He awakened the following morning
feeling fine. The gratitude each of us felt for the power of the priesthood was immense.
The years have brought me more opportunities to provide blessings to those in need
than I could possibly count. Each opportunity has found me deeply grateful that God has
entrusted to me this sacred gift. I revere the priesthood. I have witnessed its power time
and time again. I have seen its strength. I have marveled at the miracles it has wrought.
Brethren, each of us has been entrusted with one of the most precious gifts ever
bestowed upon mankind. As we honor our priesthood and live our lives so that we are at
all times worthy, the blessings of the priesthood will flow through us. I love the words
found in the Doctrine and Covenants, section 121, verse 45, which tell us what we must
do to be worthy: Let thy bowels be full of charity towards all men, and to the
household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy
confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall
distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven.
As bearers of the priesthood of God, we are engaged in the work of the Lord Jesus Christ.
We have answered His call; we are on His errand. Let us learn of Him. Let us follow in His
footsteps. Let us live by His precepts. By so doing, we will be prepared for any service He
calls us to perform. This is His work. This is His Church. Indeed, He is our captain, the
King of Glory, even the Son of God. I testify that He lives and bear this witness in His holy
name, the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

April 2015 General Conference

Blessings of the Temple

By President Thomas S. Monson

As we attend the temple, there can come to us a dimension of spirituality
and a feeling of peace.
My beloved brothers and sisters, how grateful I am to be with you this beautiful Easter
morning when our thoughts turn to the Savior of the world. I extend my love and
greetings to each of you and pray that our Heavenly Father will inspire my words.
This conference marks seven years since I was sustained as President of the Church.
They have been busy years, filled not only with a few challenges but also with countless
blessings. Among the most enjoyable and sacred of these blessings has been my
opportunity to dedicate and rededicate temples.
Most recently, this past November it was my privilege to dedicate the beautiful new
Phoenix Arizona Temple. I was joined by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Elder Dallin H. Oaks,
Elder Richard J. Maynes, Elder Lynn G. Robbins, and Elder Kent F. Richards. On the
evening prior to the dedication, a marvelous cultural celebration was held where over
4,000 of our youth from the temple district performed beautifully. The following day the
temple was dedicated in three sacred and inspiring sessions.

The building of temples is a very clear indication of the growth of the Church. We
currently have 144 temples in operation worldwide, with 5 being renovated and 13 more
under construction. In addition, 13 temples which were previously announced are in
various stages of preparation before construction begins. This year we anticipate
rededicating 2 temples and dedicating 5 new temples which are scheduled for
completion.
For the past two years, as we have concentrated our efforts on completing previously
announced temples, we have held in abeyance plans for any additional temples. This
morning, however, I am very pleased to announce three new temples which will be built
in the following locations: Abidjan, Ivory Coast; Port-au-Prince, Haiti; and Bangkok,
Thailand. What marvelous blessings are in store for our faithful members in these areas
and, indeed, wherever temples are located throughout the world.
The process of determining needs and finding locations for additional temples is ongoing,
for we desire that as many members as possible have an opportunity to attend the
temple without great sacrifices of time and resources. As we have done in the past, we
will keep you informed as decisions are made in this regard.
As I think of temples, my thoughts turn to the many blessings we receive therein. As we
enter through the doors of the temple, we leave behind us the distractions and confusion
of the world. Inside this sacred sanctuary, we find beauty and order. There is rest for our
souls and a respite from the cares of our lives.
As we attend the temple, there can come to us a dimension of spirituality and a feeling
of peace which will transcend any other feeling which could come into the human heart.
We will grasp the true meaning of the words of the Savior when He said: Peace I leave
with you, my peace I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be
afraid.1
Such peace can permeate any hearthearts that are troubled, hearts that are burdened
down with grief, hearts that feel confusion, hearts that plead for help.
I recently learned firsthand of a young man who attended the temple with a heart
pleading for help. Many months earlier he had received his call to serve in a mission in
South America. However, his visa was delayed for such a lengthy period that he was
reassigned to a mission in the United States. Although disappointed that he could not
serve in the area of his original call, he nonetheless worked hard in his new assignment,
determined to serve to the best of his ability. He became discouraged, however, because
of negative experiences he had with missionaries who seemed to him to be more
interested in having a good time than in sharing the gospel.
A few short months later this young man suffered a very serious health challenge which
left him partially paralyzed, and so he was sent home on a medical leave.
Some months later the young man had healed completely, and his paralysis had
disappeared. He was informed that he would once again be able to serve as a
missionary, a blessing for which he had prayed daily. The only disappointing news was
that he would return to the same mission which he had left, where he felt the behaviors
and attitudes of some missionaries were less than they should be.

He had come to the temple to seek comfort and a confirmation that he could have a
good experience as a missionary. His parents also had prayed that this temple visit would
provide the help their son needed.
As the young man entered the celestial room following the session, he sat in a chair and
began to pray for guidance from his Heavenly Father.
Another who entered the celestial room shortly afterward was a young man whose name
is Landon. As he walked into the room, his gaze was immediately drawn to the young
man sitting on the chair, eyes closed and obviously praying. Landon received an
unmistakable prompting that he should speak with the young man. Hesitant to interrupt,
however, he decided to wait. After several minutes had gone by, the young man was still
praying. Landon knew he could no longer postpone the prompting. He approached the
young man and gently touched his shoulder. The young man opened his eyes, startled
that he had been disturbed. Landon said quietly, I have felt impressed that I need to
talk with you, although I am not certain why.
As they began to converse, the young man poured out his heart to Landon, explaining
his circumstances and ending with his desire to receive some comfort and
encouragement concerning his mission. Landon, who had returned from a successful
mission just a year earlier, told of his own mission experiences, the challenges and
concerns he had faced, the manner in which he had turned to the Lord for help, and the
blessings he had received. His words were comforting and reassuring, and his
enthusiasm for his mission was contagious. Eventually, as the young mans fears
subsided, a feeling of peace came to him. He felt deep gratitude as he realized his prayer
had been answered.
The two young men prayed together, and then Landon prepared to leave, happy that he
had listened to the inspiration which had come to him. As he stood to go, the young man
asked Landon, Where did you serve your mission? To this point, neither of them had
mentioned to the other the name of the mission in which he had served. When Landon
replied with the name of his mission, tears welled up in the eyes of the young man.
Landon had served in the very mission to which the young man would be returning!
In a recent letter to me, Landon shared with me the young mans parting words to him: I
had faith Heavenly Father would bless me, but I never could have imagined that He
would send someone to help me who had served in my own mission. I know now that all
will be well.2 The humble prayer of a sincere heart had been heard and answered.
My brothers and sisters, in our lives we will have temptations; we will have trials and
challenges. As we go to the temple, as we remember the covenants we make there, we
will be better able to overcome those temptations and to bear our trials. In the temple
we can find peace.
The blessings of the temple are priceless. One for which I am grateful every day of my
life is that which my beloved wife, Frances, and I received as we knelt at a sacred altar
and made covenants binding us together for all eternity. There is no blessing more
precious to me than the peace and comfort I receive from the knowledge I have that she
and I will be together again.

May our Heavenly Father bless us that we may have the spirit of temple worship, that we
may be obedient to His commandments, and that we may follow carefully the steps of
our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I testify that He is our Redeemer. He is the Son of God.
He it is who came forth from the grave that first Easter morning, bringing with Him the
gift of everlasting life for all of Gods children. On this beautiful day, as we celebrate that
momentous event, may we offer prayers of gratitude for His great and marvelous gifts to
us. That this may be so, I pray humbly in His holy name, amen.

October 2015 General Conference

Keep the Commandments

By President Thomas S. Monson

He who created us and who loves us perfectly knows just how we need to
live our lives in order to obtain the greatest happiness possible.
My beloved brethren, how good it is to be with you once again. We have been inspired
this evening by the words which we have heard. I pray that I too will be guided in what I
say.
My message to you tonight is straightforward. It is this: keep the commandments.
Gods commandments are not given to frustrate us or to become obstacles to our
happiness. Just the opposite is true. He who created us and who loves us perfectly knows
just how we need to live our lives in order to obtain the greatest happiness possible. He
has provided us with guidelines which, if we follow them, will see us safely through this
often treacherous mortal journey. We remember the words of the familiar hymn: Keep
the commandments! In this there is safety; in this there is peace.1
Our Heavenly Father loves us enough to say: Thou shalt not lie; thou shalt not steal; thou
shalt not commit adultery; thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself; and so on.2 We know
the commandments. He understands that when we keep the commandments, our lives
will be happier, more fulfilling, and less complicated. Our challenges and problems will be
easier to bear, and we will receive His promised blessings. But while He gives us laws
and commandments, He also allows us to choose whether to accept them or to reject
them. Our decisions in this regard will determine our destiny.
I am confident that each of us has as his ultimate goal life everlasting in the presence of
our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. It is imperative, therefore, for us to make
choices throughout our lives that will lead us to this great goal. We know, however, that
the adversary is committed to our failure. He and his hosts are relentless in their efforts
to thwart our righteous desires. They represent a grave and constant threat to our
eternal salvation unless we are also relentless in our determination and efforts to achieve
our goal. The Apostle Peter warns us, Be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a
roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.3
Although there is no time in our lives when we are exempt from temptation, you young
men are at an age when you may be particularly vulnerable. Teenage years are often

years of insecurity, of feeling as though you dont measure up, of trying to find your
place with your peers, and of trying to fit in. You may be tempted to lower your standards
and to follow the crowd in order to be accepted by those you desire to have as friends.
Please be strong, and be alert to anything that would rob you of the blessings of eternity.
The choices you make here and now are forever important.
We read in 1 Corinthians: There are so many kinds of voices in the world.4 We are
surrounded by persuasive voices, beguiling voices, belittling voices, sophisticated voices,
and confusing voices. I might add that these are loud voices. I admonish you to turn the
volume down and to be influenced instead by that still, small voice which will guide you
to safety. Remember that one with authority placed his hands on your head after you
were baptized, confirming you a member of the Church and saying, Receive the Holy
Ghost.5 Open your hearts, even your very souls, to the sound of that special voice
which testifies of truth. As the prophet Isaiah promised, Thine ears shall hear a word ,
saying, This is the way, walk ye in it.6 May we ever be in tune, that we might hear this
comforting, guiding voice which will keep us safe.
Disregard for the commandments has opened the way for what I consider to be the
plagues of our day. They include the plague of permissiveness, the plague of
pornography, the plague of drugs, the plague of immorality, and the plague of abortion,
to name just a few. The scriptures tell us that the adversary is the founder of all these
things.7 We know that he is the father of all lies, to deceive and to blind men.8
I plead with you to avoid anything that will deprive you of your happiness here in
mortality and eternal life in the world to come. With his deceptions and lies, the
adversary will lead you down a slippery slope to your destruction if you allow him to do
so. You will likely be on that slippery slope before you even realize that there is no way to
stop. You have heard the messages of the adversary. He cunningly calls: Just this once
wont matter; everyone is doing it; dont be old-fashioned; times have changed; it cant
hurt anyone; your life is yours to live. The adversary knows us, and he knows the
temptations which will be difficult for us to ignore. How vital it is that we exercise
constant vigilance in order to avoid giving in to such lies and temptations.
Great courage will be required as we remain faithful and true amid the ever-increasing
pressures and insidious influences with which we are surrounded and which distort the
truth, tear down the good and the decent, and attempt to substitute the man-made
philosophies of the world. If the commandments had been written by man, then to
change them by inclination or legislation or by any other means would be the
prerogative of man. The commandments, however, were God-given. Using our agency,
we can set them aside. We cannot, however, change them, just as we cannot change the
consequences which come from disobeying and breaking them.
May we realize that our greatest happiness in this life will come as we follow Gods
commandments and obey His laws! I love the words found in Isaiah chapter 32, verse 17:
The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and
assurance for ever. Such peace, such assurance can come only through righteousness.
We cannot allow ourselves the slightest bit of leeway in dealing with sin. We cannot allow
ourselves to believe that we can participate just a little in disobeying the
commandments of God, for the sin can grab us with an iron hand from which it is
excruciatingly painful to free ourselves. The addictions which can come from drugs,

alcohol, pornography, and immorality are real and are nearly impossible to break without
great struggle and much help.
If any of you has stumbled in his journey, I assure you that there is a way back. The
process is called repentance. Although the path is difficult, your eternal salvation
depends on it. What could be more worthy of your efforts? I plead with you to determine
right here and now to take the steps necessary to fully repent. The sooner you do so, the
sooner you will be able to experience the peace and the quietness and the assurance
spoken of by Isaiah.
A short while ago I heard the testimony of a woman who, with her husband, strayed from
the path of safety, breaking commandments and, in the process, nearly destroying their
family. When each of them could finally see through the thick haze of addiction and
recognize how unhappy their lives had become, as well as how much they were hurting
their loved ones, they began to change. The repentance process felt slow and was, at
times, painful, but with the help of priesthood leaders, along with help from family and
loyal friends, they made their way back.
I share with you a portion of this sisters testimony of the healing power of repentance:
How does someone go from being one of the lost sheep and gripped by [sin], to this
peace and happiness we now feel? How does that happen? The answer is because of a
perfect gospel, a perfect Son and His sacrifice for me. Where there was darkness,
there is now light. Where there was despair and pain, there is joy and hope. We have
been infinitely blessed by the change that can only come through repentance made
possible by the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Our Savior died to provide you and me that blessed gift. Despite the fact that the path is
difficult, the promise is real. Said the Lord to those who repent:
Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.9
And I will remember [them] no more.10
Throughout our lives we will need to nurture strong testimonies by studying the
scriptures and by praying and by pondering the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
When firmly planted, our testimonies of the gospel, of the Savior, and of our Heavenly
Father will influence all that we do.
I testify that all of us are beloved sons of our Father in Heaven, sent to earth at this day
and time for a purpose, and given the priesthood of God so that we can serve others and
perform Gods work here upon the earth. We have been commanded to live our lives so
that we remain worthy to possess that priesthood.
My brethren, may we keep the commandments! Wonderful and glorious are the rewards
which are in store for us if we do. May this be our blessing, I pray in the name of Jesus
Christ, our Savior and our Redeemer, amen.

October 2015 General Conference

Be an Example and a Light

By President Thomas S. Monson

As we follow the example of the Savior, ours will be the opportunity to be a
light in the lives of others.
My Brothers and sisters, how good it is to be with you once again. As you know, since we
were together in April, we have been saddened by the loss of three of our beloved
Apostles: President Boyd K. Packer, Elder L. Tom Perry, and Elder Richard G. Scott. They
have returned to their heavenly home. We miss them. How grateful we are for their
examples of Christlike love and for the inspired teachings they have left to all of us.
We extend a heartfelt welcome to our newest Apostles, Elder Ronald A. Rasband, Elder
Gary E. Stevenson, and Elder Dale G. Renlund. These are men dedicated to the work of
the Lord. They are well qualified to fill the important positions to which they have been
called.
Recently, as I have been reading and pondering the scriptures, two passages in
particular have stayed with me. Both are familiar to us. The first is from the Sermon on
the Mount: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and
glorify your Father which is in heaven.1 The second scripture is one which came to my
mind as I pondered the meaning of the first. It is from the Apostle Pauls Epistle to
Timothy: Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in
spirit, in faith, in purity.2
I believe the second scripture explains, in great part, how we can accomplish the first.
We become examples of the believers by living the gospel of Jesus Christ in word, in
conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, and in purity. As we do so, our lights will shine
for others to see.
Each of us came to earth having been given the Light of Christ. As we follow the example
of the Savior and live as He lived and as He taught, that light will burn within us and will
light the way for others.
The Apostle Paul lists six attributes of a believer, attributes that will allow our lights to
shine. Let us look at each one.
I mention the first two attributes togetherbeing an example in word and in
conversation. The words we use can lift and inspire, or they can harm and demean. In
the world today there is a profusion of profanity with which we seem to be surrounded at
nearly every turn. It is difficult to avoid hearing the names of Deity being used casually
and thoughtlessly. Coarse comments seem to have become a staple of television,
movies, books, and music. Bandied about are slanderous remarks and angry rhetoric. Let
us speak to others with love and respect, ever keeping our language clean and avoiding
words or comments that would wound or offend. May we follow the example of the
Savior, who spoke with tolerance and kindness throughout His ministry.
The next attribute mentioned by Paul is charity, which has been defined as the pure
love of Christ.3 I am confident there are within our sphere of influence those who are
lonely, those who are ill, and those who feel discouraged. Ours is the opportunity to help

them and to lift their spirits. The Savior brought hope to the hopeless and strength to the
weak. He healed the sick; He caused the lame to walk, the blind to see, the deaf to hear.
He even raised the dead to life. Throughout His ministry He reached out in charity to any
in need. As we emulate His example, we will bless lives, including our own.
Next, we are to be an example in spirit. To me that means we strive to have in our lives
kindness, gratitude, forgiveness, and goodwill. These qualities will provide for us a spirit
which will touch the lives of those around us. It has been my opportunity through the
years to associate with countless individuals who possess such a spirit. We experience a
special feeling when we are with them, a feeling that makes us want to associate with
them and to follow their example. They radiate the Light of Christ and help us feel His
love for us.
To illustrate that the light which comes from a pure and loving spirit is recognized by
others, I share with you an experience of many years ago.
At that time, leaders of the Church met with officials in Jerusalem to work out a lease
agreement for land on which the Churchs Jerusalem Center would be built. In order to
obtain the permissions needed, the Church had to agree that no proselyting would be
undertaken by our members who would occupy the center. After that agreement had
been made, one of the Israeli officials, who was well acquainted with the Church and its
members, remarked that he knew the Church would honor the no-proselyting agreement.
But, he said, referring to the students who would attend there, what are we going to
do about the light that is in their eyes?4 May that special light ever shine within us, that
it might be recognized and appreciated by others.
To be an example of faith means that we trust in the Lord and in His word. It means that
we possess and that we nourish the beliefs that will guide our thoughts and our actions.
Our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in our Heavenly Father will influence all that we do.
Amidst the confusion of our age, the conflicts of conscience, and the turmoil of daily
living, an abiding faith becomes an anchor to our lives. Remember that faith and doubt
cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel the other. I reiterate
what we have been told repeatedlythat in order to gain and to keep the faith we need,
it is essential that we read and study and ponder the scriptures. Communication with our
Heavenly Father through prayer is vital. We cannot afford to neglect these things, for the
adversary and his hosts are relentlessly seeking for a chink in our armor, a lapse in our
faithfulness. Said the Lord, Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all
things shall work together for your good.5
Finally, we are to be pure, which means that we are clean in body, mind, and spirit. We
know that our body is a temple, to be treated with reverence and respect. Our minds
should be filled with uplifting and ennobling thoughts and kept free from those things
which will pollute. In order to have the Holy Ghost as our constant companion, we must
be worthy. Brothers and sisters, purity will bring us peace of mind and will qualify us to
receive the Saviors promises. Said He, Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see
God.6
As we prove to be examples in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, and in
purity, we will qualify to be lights to the world.

May I say to all of you, and particularly to you young people, that as the world moves
further and further away from the principles and guidelines given to us by a loving
Heavenly Father, we will stand out from the crowd because we are different. We will
stand out because we dress modestly. We will be different because we do not use
profanity and because we do not partake of substances which are harmful to our bodies.
We will be different because we avoid off-color humor and degrading remarks. We will be
different as we decide not to fill our minds with media choices that are base and
demeaning and that will remove the Spirit from our homes and our lives. We will
certainly stand out as we make choices regarding moralitychoices which adhere to
gospel principles and standards. Those things which make us different from most of the
world also provide us with that light and that spirit which will shine in an increasingly
dark world.
It is often difficult to be different and to stand alone in a crowd. It is natural to fear what
others might think or say. Comforting are the words of the psalm: The Lord is my light
and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I
be afraid?7 As we make Christ the center of our lives, our fears will be replaced by the
courage of our convictions.
Life is perfect for none of us, and at times the challenges and difficulties we face may
become overwhelming, causing our light to dim. However, with help from our Heavenly
Father, coupled with support from others, we can regain that light which will illuminate
our own path once again and provide the light others may need.
To illustrate, I share with you the touching words of a favorite poem I first read many
years ago:
I met a stranger in the night
Whose lamp had ceased to shine.
I paused and let him light
His lamp from mine.
A tempest sprang up later on
And shook the world about.
And when the wind was gone
My lamp was out!
But back to me the stranger came
His lamp was glowing fine!
He held the precious flame
And lighted mine!8
My brothers and sisters, our opportunities to shine surround us each day, in whatever
circumstance we find ourselves. As we follow the example of the Savior, ours will be the
opportunity to be a light in the lives of others, whether they be our own family members
and friends, our co-workers, mere acquaintances, or total strangers.
To each of you, I say that you are a son or daughter of our Heavenly Father. You have
come from His presence to live on this earth for a season, to reflect the Saviors love and
teachings, and to bravely let your light shine for all to see. When that season on earth

has ended, if you have done your part, yours will be the glorious blessing of returning to
live with Him forever.
How reassuring are the Saviors words: I am the light of the world: he that followeth me
shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.9 Of Him I testify. He is our
Savior and Redeemer, our Advocate with the Father. He is our Exemplar and our
strength. He is the light which shineth in darkness.10 That each of us within the sound
of my voice may pledge to follow Him, thus becoming a shining light to the world, is my
prayer in His holy name, even Jesus Christ the Lord, amen.

Talks at BYU
Nov 6, 2005

Decisions Determine Destiny

Thomas S. Monson
You are a glorious group, even a chosen generation, assembled both here in the
Marriott Center at Brigham Young University and in many other locations. It is an
honor for me to be with you, and I want you to know that there is nowhere else on
earth I would rather be this evening.
I approach this assignment after earnest personal prayer. I seek your faith; I ask for
your prayers.
As I look at you assembled here and contemplate those of you who are assembled
elsewhere, my thoughts turn to your parents. For many years it was my privilege
nearly every week to attend stake conferences and to be in the home of a stake
president or a counselor to a stake president. Sometimes, rather interesting things
would occur. There were occasions when a tiny brother or sister, not knowing that
Mother and Dad had given their bedroom and their bed to a General Authority, would
creep in the bedroom early in the morning and think that he or she was crawling into
bed with Mother and Fatheronly to be amazed and confused to find that such was
not the case.
On one occasion many years ago, while visiting the Indianapolis Stake, I remember
President Lowe, who was with Purdue University there, saying to me, Brother
Monson, would you like to come out to my home and stay with us Saturday evening,
or would you prefer to forego the 40-mile drive and stay here with my counselor in
Indianapolis?
I responded, Well, President Lowe, its late at night, and, if its all the same to you, Ill
stay with your counselor here in Indianapolis.
The next morning President Lowe greeted me at eight oclock and said, Brother
Monson, you made an inspired decision.
I asked, Hows that?

Well, he replied, we have a son away attending the university, and our anticipation
was that we, of course, would have you occupy our bedroom on Saturday evening.
But, unknown to us and totally unexpectedly, our son returned home from school at
two in the morning, came in the front door, walked up the stairs to our bedroom,
turned on the light, and yelled, Surprise!
Im not certain who would have been more surprised on that occasion had I stayed
with the stake presidentthe student or me! I think its rather a good thing we didnt
find out.
Well, my young friends, what a thrilling life awaits you! You may not be a John Cabot,
sailing off into the blue with the kings patent to discover new lands, nor a Captain
James Cook, whose voyages of discovery carried him to far away places with
strange-sounding names.1 But you can be explorers in spirit, with a mandate to make
this world better by discovering improved ways of living and of doing things. The spirit
of exploration, whether it be of the surface of the earth, the vastness of space, or the
principles of living greatly, includes developing the capacity to face trouble with
courage, disappointment with cheerfulness, and triumph with humility.
Many of you are familiar with the musical Fiddler on the Roof. It is a favorite of mine.
One laughs as he observes the old-fashioned father of a Jewish family in Russia
attempting to cope with the changing times brought forcibly home to him by his
beautiful daughters. With abandon they sing, Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a
match. Tevye, the father, sings his reply with If I Were a Rich Man. Tears come to
the viewer as he hears the beautiful strains of Sunrise, Sunset, and he seems to
appreciate Tevyes love for his native village when the cast sings Anatevka.
The gaiety of the dance, the rhythm of the music, and the excellence of the acting all
fade in significance when Tevye speaks what to me becomes the message of the
musical. He gathers his lovely daughters to his side, and, in the simplicity of his
peasant surroundings, he counsels them as they ponder their future. Remember,
cautions Tevye, in Anatevka we know who we are and what God expects us to
become.
As Latter-day Saints, we know who we are and what God expects us to become. Listen
to the truth taught to us in the first book of Moses, called Genesis:
God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. . . .
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and
female created he them.
And God blessed them. [Genesis 1:2628]
Created in the image of God. We cannot sincerely hold this conviction without
experiencing a profound sense of strength and power. As Latter-day Saints, we know
that we lived before we came to earth, that mortality is a probationary period wherein
we might prove ourselves obedient to Gods command and thus worthy of celestial
glory. Yes, we know who we are and what God expects us to become. Such
knowledge, however, does not ensure our success in reaching our goal of eternal life.
During the last half century or so, there has been throughout the world a gradual but
continual decline in many phases of life. We observe relationships without morality,
science without humanity, knowledge without character, business without ethics,

worship without sacrifice, pleasure without conscience, politics without principle, and
wealth without works.
Perhaps the renowned author Charles Dickens best described our day when he spoke
of a period over two centuries ago. His classic A Tale of Two Cities begins:
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was
the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it
was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it
was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us.
This is your world. The future is in your hands. The outcome is up to you. The way to
exaltation is not a freeway featuring unlimited vision, unrestricted speeds, and
untested skills. Rather, it is known by many forks and turnings, sharp curves, and
controlled speeds. Your driving skill will be put to the test. Are you ready? You are
driving. You havent passed this way before. Fortunately, the Master Highway Builder,
even our Heavenly Father, has provided a road map showing the route to follow. He
has placed markers along the way to guide you to your destination. Perhaps you may
recognize some of His signs:

Honour thy father and thy mother (Exodus 20:12).

Search the scriptures; for . . . they are they which testify of me (John 5:39).

Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

Be ye clean (3 Nephi 20:41).

That evil one too has placed road signs to frustrate your progress and to lead you
from the path of truth into detours of sin. His detours all lead to a dead end. Have you
noticed his markers?

Just this once wont matter.

It cant hurt anyone but me.

My love is mine to give; my life is mine to live.

Times have changed.

Now we see coming into focus the responsibility to choose, that inevitable crisis at the
crossroads of life. He who would lead you down waits patiently for a dark night, a
wavering will, a confused conscience, a mixed-up mind. Are you prepared to make the
decisions at the crossroads?
I cant stress too strongly that decisions determine destiny. You cant make eternal
decisions without eternal consequences.
May I provide a simple formula by which you can measure the choices which confront
you. Its easy to remember, sometimes difficult to apply: You cant be right by doing
wrong; you cant be wrong by doing right. Your personal conscience always warns you
as a friend before it punishes you as a judge.

The Lord, in a revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet at Kirtland, Ohio,
May 1831, counseled:
That which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness.
That which is of God is light. [D&C 50:2324]
Some foolish persons turn their backs on the wisdom of God and follow the allurement
of fickle fashion, the attraction of false popularity, and the thrill of the moment. Their
course of conduct so resembles the disastrous experience of Esau, who exchanged his
birthright for a mess of pottage.
To illustrate, may I share with you the results of a survey conducted by a reputable
organization and reported in a national magazine.2 The survey was entitled, Would
You, for Ten Million Dollars? Let me ask you the same questions which were asked in
the survey:

For 10 million dollars in cash, would you leave your family permanently?

Would you marry someone you didnt love?

Would you give up all your friends permanently?

Would you serve a years jail term on a framed charge?

Would you take off your clothes in public?

Would you take a dangerous job in which you had a 1-in-10 chance of losing your

life?

Would you become a beggar for a year?

Of the people polled, 1 percent would leave their families, 10 percent would marry
lovelessly, 11 percent would give up friends, 12 percent would undress in public, 13
percent would go to jail for a year, 14 percent would take the risky job, and 21
percent would beg for a year.
Where money, rather than morality, dictates ones actions, one is inclined away from
God. Turning away from God brings broken covenants, shattered dreams, vanished
ambitions, unfulfilled expectations, crushed hopes, and ruined lives.
Such a quagmire of quicksand I plead with you to avoid. You are of a noble birthright.
Eternal life in the kingdom of our Father is your goal. Such a goal is not achieved in
one glorious attempt but rather is the result of a lifetime of righteousness, an
accumulation of wise choices, even a constancy of purpose. Like the coveted A grade
on the report card of a difficult and required college course, the reward of eternal life
requires effort.
There is a fable told about Euclid and Pharaoh and geometry. It is said that Pharaoh,
entranced by some of the explanations and demonstrations of Euclid, wished to learn
geometry, and Euclid undertook to teach him. He studied for a brief period and then
called in Euclid and said the process was too slow for him. He was a Pharaoh; there
must be a shorter road. He did not want to spend all his time to learn geometry. Then

Euclid gave voice to this great truth. Said he to his Majesty, There is no royal road to
geometry.3
My young friends, there is no royal road to salvation and exaltation. There is no royal
road to success in any endeavor. The A grade is the result of each theme, each quiz,
each class, each examination, each term paper. So each heartfelt prayer, each Church
meeting attended, each worthy friend, each righteous decision, each act of service
performed all precede that goal of eternal life.
A few months ago, as I returned from an assignment in Germany, I gazed out the
window of the plane and marveled at the stars by which the navigator charted our
course. My thoughts were upon you and the opportunity given me to meet with you
tonight. I thought of the truth Ideals are like stars; you will not succeed in touching
them with your hands. But . . . you choose them as your guides, and following them
you will reach your destiny.4
What ideals, when followed, will bring to you those blessings you so much seek, even
a quiet conscience, a peace-filled heart, a loving family, a contented home?
May I suggest these three:
Choose your friends with caution.
Plan your future with purpose.
Frame your life with faith.
First: Choose Your Friends with Caution
In a survey which was made in selected wards and stakes of the Church, we learned a
most significant fact. Those persons whose friends married in the temple usually
married in the temple, while those persons whose friends did not marry in the temple
usually did not marry in the temple. The influence of ones friends appeared to be a
more dominant factor than parental urging, classroom instruction, or proximity to a
temple.
We tend to become like those whom we admire. Just as in Nathaniel Hawthornes
classic account The Great Stone Face, we adopt the mannerisms, the attitudes,
even the conduct of those whom we admireand they are usually our friends.
Associate with those who, like you, are planning not for temporary convenience,
shallow goals, or narrow ambition but rather for those things that matter mosteven
eternal objectives.
Inscribed on the east transept wall of Stanford University Memorial Church is the
truth: All that is not eternal [is] too short, [and] all that is not infinite [is] too small.5
Beyond your circle of earthly friends, I urge you to make a friend of your Heavenly
Father. He stands ready to answer the prayer of your heart. Being the Father of your
spirit and having created you in His own image, knowing the end from the beginning,
His wisdom will not fail and His counsel is ever true. Make a friend of Him.
There is another important friend you should have, and that is the bishop of your
ward. He has been called of God by prophecy and the laying on of hands by those
who are in authority. He is entitled to heavenly help in providing you with counsel and
guidance. Make a friend of him.

How well I remember the challenges confronting the youth in the ward over which I
once presided as a bishop. One evening a lovely teenage girl came to my office with
her boyfriend to talk things over with me. The two of them were very much in love,
and temptation was beginning to get the best of them.
As we counseled together, each made a pledge to the other to resist temptation and
keep uppermost in their minds the goal of a temple marriage. I suggested a course of
action to follow and then felt impressed to say: If you ever find yourselves in a
position of compromise and need additional strength, you call me, regardless of the
hour.
One morning at 1:00 a.m., the telephone rang and a voice said: Bishop, this is Susan.
Remember how you asked me to call if I found myself being tempted? Well, Bishop,
Im in that situation. I asked where she was, and she described a popular parking
spot in the Salt Lake Valley. She and her fianc had walked to a nearby phone booth
to make the call. The setting wasnt ideal for providing counsel, but the need was
great, and the young couple was receptive.
I wont mention how often Susan called. However, when the mailman delivered her
wedding announcement to our home and Sister Monson read, Mr. and Mrs. Jones
request the pleasure of your company at the wedding reception of their daughter,
Susan, she sighed, Thank heaven! When I noticed the small print at the bottom,
which read, Married in the Salt Lake Temple, I said silently, Thank heaven for the
strength of Latter-day Saint youth.
Choose your friends with caution.
Second: Plan Your Future with Purpose
The great Thomas Carlyle said: The man without a purpose is like a ship without a
ruddera waif, a nothing, a no man. Have a purpose in life, and, having it, throw such
strength of mind and muscle into your work as God has given you.6
Many years ago I served as a mission president. I had 450 wonderful, dedicated
missionaries. When we returned home to Salt Lake City after three years, my dear
wife and I were a little surprised one evening as we ran a tally on our missionaries,
only to find that there were some sister missionaries who had not as yet found an
eternal companion. We determined we would do what we could to help out. I said to
Sister Monson, Frances, lets plan with a purpose and invite three or four of our lovely
sister missionaries to our home. Well have an activity where they can tell us who of
all the single returned male missionaries they would like to have invited to a little
fireside in our home. Then we will show pictures of the mission, and we will arrange
the seating so that they can become well acquainted with one another. This was
done, and I might say that the four girls whom we invited eagerly responded to the
challenge.
In shoe boxes we maintained individual five-by-seven-inch photographs of every
missionary. We had four such boxes, with missionary pictures in each. As those four
girls sat around our living room, I said to each of them, Here is a gift. Thumb through
your box of pictures and tell me which of all the pictures represents the young man
whom you would most like to have invited to come to this fireside. My, that was an
interesting scene. I think that the only way I could adequately describe it is to ask a
question. Have you ever seen children on Christmas morning? We went forward and
invited the chosen four young men to join these four young ladies in our home, and

we had a glorious evening. At the conclusion of the evening, I noticed two of them
slowly walking down our driveway, and I said to Sister Monson, This looks
promising. They were walking very close together.
It wasnt long afterward that I received a telephone call from the young man. He said,
President Monson, do you remember that I promised you if I ever fell in love, I would
let you know?
I said, Yes, sir.
He continued, President, I have fallen in love.
I replied, Good. With whom?
He said, Youll never guess.
I was discreet; I didnt guess. I said, You tell me. And he named the sister missionary
with whom he walked side by side and hand in hand from our party that evening.
They have now been married for 42 years and have five children and many
grandchildren.
Some of you within the sound of my voice have already married; others are still
seeking that special someone with whom you would want to spend eternity. For those
of you in the latter category, in your quest for the man or woman of your dreams, you
may well heed the counsel given by King Arthur in the musical Camelot. Faced with a
particularly vexing dilemma, King Arthur could well have been speaking to all of us
when he declared, We must not let our passions destroy our dreams.7 May you
follow this most essential counsel. I urge you to hold fast to your standards. I plead
with you not to waver.
As a young boy I had a very special Sunday School teacher who has since passed
away. Her name was Lucy Gertsch.
Lucy was lovely and ever so sweet. She was deserving of a worthy companion, yet
none had come her way. The years flew by and Lucy was becoming resigned to the
fact that she would never marry. And then, when she was in her mid-forties, she met
Dick. It was a case of love at first sight. Just one problem: Dick was not a member of
the Church. Did Lucy succumb to the age-old fallacy of marrying out of desperation,
with the fleeting hope that one day he would become a member? Not Lucy. She was
wiser than this. She simply told him, Dick, I think youre wonderful, but we would
never be happy dating each other.
Why not? he countered.
Because youre not a Mormon.
How do I become a Mormon? I want to date you. He studied the gospel. She
answered his questions. He gained a testimony and was baptized.
Then he said, Lucy, now that Im a member, we can be married at last.
Lucy replied, Oh, Dick, I love you so much. Now that you are a member of the
Church, you wouldnt be content with anything but a temple marriage.
How long will that take, Lucy?

About a year, if we meet the other requirements.

One year later Lucy and Dick entered the house of the Lord.
Lucy lived the truth of the verse:
Dare to be a Mormon;
Dare to stand alone.
Dare to have a purpose firm,
And dare to make it known.8
Plan your future with purpose.
Third: Frame Your Life with Faith
Amidst the confusion of the times, the conflicts of conscience, and the turmoil of daily
living, an abiding faith becomes an anchor to our lives.
Little children can give us interesting examples of faith. Some time ago I jotted down
from one of our national magazines a short compilation of Childrens Letters to God.
I found them most interesting.
Little Mark wrote: Dear God, I keep waiting for spring but it never [did] come yet.
Dont forget.
Another child stated: Dear God, If you made the rule for kids to take out the garbage
please change it.
Little Mickey wrote: Dear God, If you watch in Church on Sunday I will show you my
new shoes.
Jeff wrote: Dear God, It is great the way you always get the stars in the right places.
Why cant you do that with the moon?
Joyce wrote: Dear God, Thank you for the baby brother but what I prayed for was a
puppy.
I like this one from Matthew the best: Dear God, I read your book and I like it. Then
he asked, I would like to write a book someday with the same kind of stories. Where
do you get your ideas? Best wishes.9
True faith requires determination, and the kind of determination which is required is
that set forth by a 21-year-old female college senior, who declared:
Our generation has been exposed, through every means of communication, to major
and minor fearsthe little threat of not finding a mate if one does not use a certain
mouthwash or fear of nonacceptance if one does not succumb to a low moral
standard because it is the nature of the beast.
Many of us accept the premises that You cant fight city hall and Live life to its
fullest now, for tomorrow we will be destroyed by nuclear war or some other
catastrophe.
I am old-fashioned enough to believe in God; to believe in the dignity and potential of
His creature, man; and I am realistic, not idealistic, enough to know that I am not
alone in these feelings.

Some say that, unlike other generations, we have no mission in lifethat everything
has been handed to us. We have not been pampered but spiritually impoverished. I
dont want to live in the poverty of affluenceand I cannot live alone.
Remember that faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for
one will dispel the other. Be firm in your faith.
I think of an account I read about the wife of one of our early pioneers. Her name was
Catherine Curtis Spencer. Her husband, Orson Spencer, was a sensitive, well-educated
man. She had been reared in Boston and was cultured and refined. She and Orson had
six children. After leaving Nauvoo, her delicate health declined from exposure and
hardship. Elder Spencer wrote to her parents and asked if she could return to live with
them while he established a home for her in the West. Their reply: Let her renounce
her degrading faith, and she can come back, but never until she does. Sister Spencer
would not renounce her faith. When her parents letter was read to her, she asked her
husband to get his Bible and read to her from the book of Ruth: Intreat me not to
leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and
where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God
(Ruth 1:16). Outside the storm raged, the wagon covers leaked, and friends held milk
pans over Sister Spencers head to keep her dry. In these conditions, and without a
word of complaint, she closed her eyes for the last time.10
Though we may not necessarily forfeit our lives in service to our God, we can certainly
demonstrate our love for Him by how well we serve Him. He who hears our silent
prayers, He who observes our unheralded acts will reward us openly when the need
comes.
Should doubt knock at your doorway, just say to those skeptical, disturbing, rebellious
thoughts: I propose to stay with my faith, with the faith of my people. I know that
happiness and contentment are there, and I forbid you, agnostic, doubting thoughts,
to destroy the house of my faith. I grant that I cannot explain the miracles of the
Bible, and I do not attempt to do so, but I accept Gods word. I wasnt with Joseph, but
I believe him. My faith did not come to me through science, and I will not permit socalled science to destroy it. When I change my mind about God and His work, only the
inspiration of God will change it.
Frame your life with faith.
When you choose your friends with caution, plan your future with purpose, and frame
your life with faith, you will merit the companionship of the Holy Spirit. You will have a
perfect brightness of hope. You will testify through your own experience to the truth of
the Lords promise:
I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor
those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end.
Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory. [D&C 76:56]
To these perfect truths I bear my solemn witness and invoke the blessings of our
Heavenly Father upon each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Thomas S. Monson was first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints when this fireside address was delivered on 6 November
2005.

Nov 14, 2006

Three Gates to Open

Thomas S. Monson
Its humbling to sit here and gaze from left to right and see how many people are
assembled here waiting for what they might hear from their speaker. It reminds me of
a little boy in our fast and testimony meeting a couple of months ago. I watched him
from the stand, and I could tell he was fidgeting, trying to get up enough courage to
come up and bear his testimony. He was just a little fellow. Finally he made the move.
He stood up, walked solemnly up that long aisle, passed in front of me and smiled,
stepped over to the pulpit, put his hands down, looked at the audience, removed his
hands, and turned around and walked back to his parents.
All I could do today would be to turn around and walk back to the arms of President
Samuelson. I think he would rather I speak now than have to take over. Youre my
friends. I feel close to you, and it is a privilege to be with you and to speak to you
today.
What a wonderful opportunity you have to attend Brigham Young University and to be
taught by the fine faculty we have here. As I think of learning, I am reminded of a
father and his son who went fishing one day. After a couple of hours in the boat, the
boy suddenly began asking questions about their surroundings.
How does this boat float? he asked his father.
His father thought for a moment and then replied, I dont rightly know, son.
The boy returned to his contemplation, then looked again at his father. How do fish
breathe underwater? he asked.
Once again the father replied, Dont rightly know, son.
Next the boy asked, Why is the sky blue?
Again, the father replied, Dont rightly know, son.
Worried he would annoy his father, the boy said, Dad, do you mind my asking you all
of these questions?
Of course not, son. If you dont ask questions, youll never learn anything.
As I have pondered what message I would wish to leave with you today, I have
thought of the scripture from Ecclesiastes, or the Preacher: To every thing there is a
season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.1 This is your time. What will
you do with it? Are you where you want to be with your life? If not, what are you going
to do about it?
The Prophet Joseph Smith counseled:
Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we
pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness,
holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.2

I have devoted considerable time reflecting on years gone by, when I was your age
and facing your challenges, your objectives, your opportunities, your futures.
During my high school years, and into my first year at the University of Utah, World
War II was raging in full conflict. The daily newspapers carried the news of men dying,
cities being obliterated, hospitals filled with grievously burned and maimed
servicemen. They faced futures altered, dreams shattered, homecomings ruined.
It didnt seem to matter that gasoline was severely rationed. This was a catalyst for
double dating and carpooling. Textbooks were delayed due to paper shortages. They
werent available until midway through our courses, and yet we were expected to
know everything in them by final exams.
It was the era of the big bands, and everyone enjoyed a date to the dance, although
dancing then was quite different from dancing now.
Looming in the background of every thought for each young man was the inevitable
call to serve ones country. Left behind were the comforts of family and home, the
teachings of classrooms, and, of course, a special girlfriend. (By the way, she and I
have now been married for 58 years!)
Whether speaking of your generation or of mine, there are some constancies amid the
changes of the times. The past is behindwe must learn from it. The future is ahead
we must prepare for it. The present is nowwe must live in it.
Years ago, I discovered a thought which is true and, in a way, prophetic. It is this: The
gate of history swings on small hinges, and so do peoples lives.
Today I have chosen to discuss three gates which you alone can open. You must pass
through each gate if you are to be successful in your journey through mortality:
Gate Number 1: The Gate of Preparation
Gate Number 2: The Gate of Performance
Gate Number 3: The Gate of Service
The Gate of Preparation
First, let us speak of the Gate of Preparation. The Lord has counseled, If ye are
prepared ye shall not fear.3 Fear is the enemy of growth and accomplishment.
It is necessary to prepare and to plan so that we dont fritter away our lives. Without a
goal, there can be no real success. The best definition of success I have ever found
goes something like this: Success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal.
Someone has said that the trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your
life running up and down the field and never crossing the goal line.
Years ago there was a romantic and fanciful ballad that contained the words Wishing
will make it so; Just keep on wishing and cares will go.4 I want to state here and now
that wishing will not replace thorough preparation to meet the trials of life.
Preparation is hard work, but it is absolutely essential for our progress.
Concerning your preparation, let me share with you this time-honored advice, which
has never been more applicable than it is right now: It is not the number of hours you
put in but what you put in the hours that counts.

Have discipline in your preparations. Have checkpoints where you can determine if
youre on course. Study something you like and which will make it possible for you to
support a family. While this counsel would apply almost certainly to every young man,
it also has relevance to young women. There are situations in life which we cannot
predict which will require employable skills. You cant get the jobs of tomorrow until
you have the skills of today. Business in the new economy, where the only guarantee
is change, brings us to serious preparation.
Make certain as you prepare that you do not procrastinate. Someone has said that
procrastination is the thief of time. Actually, procrastination is much more. It is the
thief of our self-respect. It nags at us and spoils our fun. It deprives us of the fullest
realization of our ambitions and our hopes.
In academic preparation, I found it a good practice to read a text with the idea that I
would be asked to explain that which the author wrote and its application to the
subject it covered. Also, I tried to be attentive in any lecture in the classroom and to
pretend that I would be called upon to present the same lecture to others. While this
practice is very hard work, it certainly helps during test week!
It is hazardous in the extreme to count on a situation typical of one I read about some
years ago pertaining to a large, ecclesiastically oriented college in the eastern part of
America, where every student had to enroll in a class called Religion 101. The
professor of that particular class had been there many years and loved the writings
and teachings of the Apostle Paul. He loved them with such vigor that that is about all
he taught in Religion 101. Consequently, he would tell the class at the beginning of
the semester, I will not give any examinations during the semester except the final.
The result of the final examination will determine your grade for the course.
Now, that would be kind of overwhelming, except that every semester for 21 years he
had given the same examination in every class of Religion 101. The examination
consisted of one question. And for all those years, the question had been the same.
Can you believe it? What a snap class! The question had always been: Describe the
travels and teachings of the Apostle Paul.
Some young people would come to class the first day and get their name on the
record. That was about it until the final examination. Then they would come, having
boned up on an answer to that question.
One particular semester, three young men who had followed that practice of
registering and then absenting themselves until the end of the semester sat with their
pencils poised as the professor went to the chalkboard and said, I shall place on the
board the question on which your entire grade will depend. To their great
astonishment he did not write the usual question. Instead, he wrote, Criticize the
Sermon on the Mount.
One of the three young men said, I dont even know what book it is in. He closed his
test book and left the room.
The second young man thought for a moment. He didnt know anything about the
Sermon on the Mount because he had prepared for a different test question. He left
the room, anticipating a failing grade.
The third one of this trio stayed in the class. He wrote line after line and page after
page. His friends were outside in the hallway, looking through the door window,

wondering what he was writing. They knew that he had no more knowledge of the
Sermon on the Mount than did they, that he had prepared for the question that was
not asked. They wondered what he was writing in that test book.
He didnt tell them until the day the papers were examined and returned. They all
huddled around to see what grade he had received. He had an A on the test and
therefore an A in the course. As he opened the cover of the exam book, there was the
question: Criticize the Sermon on the Mount. And here is what this enterprising
young man had written: I will leave it to someone far more knowledgeable and
experienced than I am to criticize the greatest sermon from the greatest life ever
lived. As for me, I would prefer to describe the travels and teachings of the Apostle
Paul.
May I now turn to the Gate of Performance. Like the Gate of Preparation, you alone
can open it.
The Gate of Performance
The Apostle Paul provided sound counsel to guide our performance: Let no man
despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation,
in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.5
Remember that the mantle of leadership, my brothers and sisters, is not the cloak of
comfort but the robe of responsibility. Accountability is not for the intention but for the
deed. You must continue to refuse to compromise with expediency. You must maintain
the courage to defy the consensus. You must continue to choose the harder right,
instead of the easier wrong. The poet John Greenleaf Whittier expressed this truth
when he wrote these lines:
For of all sad words of tongue or pen,
The saddest are these: It might have been!6
Dont forget: One of the saddest things in life is wasted talent.
It is a good idea to be ambitious, to have goals, to want to be good at what you do,
but it is a terrible mistake to let drive and ambition get in the way of treating people
with kindness and decency. The point is not that they will then be nice to you. It is
that you will feel better about yourself.7
Whenever we are inclined to feel burdened down with the blows of life, let us
remember that others have passed the same way, have endured, and then have
overcome. When we have done all that we are able, we can rely on Gods promised
help.
You, my brothers and sisters, have access to the lighthouse of the Lord. There is no
fog so dense, no night so dark, no mariner so lost, no gale so strong as to render
useless the lighthouse of the Lord. It beckons through the storms of life. It seems to
call, This way to safety; this way to home.
Will you remember to select your friends carefully, for you will tend to be like them
and to be found where they choose to go. Consider the love your parents have for you
and that you have for them. Instead of simply asking them, Where are the keys to
your car? you might add, Ill be a bit late tonight. Often the clock ticks more loudly
and the hands move more slowly when the night is dark, the hour is late, and a son or
a daughter has not yet come home. A telephone callWere okay; we just stopped

for something to eat. Dont worry; were fineis an indication of true love of parents
and of the training of a Latter-day Saint home.
Let me relate another example. At the funeral service of a noble General Authority, H.
Verlan Andersen, a tribute was expressed by a son. He related that, years earlier, he
had a special school date on a Saturday night. He borrowed from his father the family
car. As he obtained the car keys and headed for the door, his father said, Remember,
tomorrow is Sunday. The car will need more gas before then. Be sure to fill the tank
before coming home.
Elder Andersens son then related that the evening activity was wonderful. Friends
met, refreshments were served, and all had a good time. In his exuberance, however,
he failed to follow his fathers instruction and add fuel to the cars tank before
returning home. He simply forgot.
Sunday morning dawned. Elder Andersen discovered the gas gauge showed empty.
The son saw his father put the car keys on the table. In the Andersen family the
Sabbath day was a day for worship and thanksgiving, and not for purchases.
As the funeral message continued, Elder Andersens son declared, I saw my father
put on his coat, bid us good-bye, and walk the long distance to the chapel, that he
might attend an early meeting. Duty called. Truth was not held hostage to
expedience.
In concluding his funeral message, Elder Andersens son said, No son ever was
taught more effectively by his father than I was on that occasion. My father not only
knew the truth, but he also taught the truth and lived the truth.
Youth need fewer critics and more models to follow. Your own personal performance in
all aspects of your life, including reading the scriptures regularly and following their
teachings, will help you to become such models. Then the Gate of Performance will
open before you as you proceed to Gate Number 3the Gate of Service.
The Gate of Service
Albert Schweitzer, the noted theologian and missionary physician, declared: I dont
know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who
will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.
May I share with you an experience I had with a dear friend of mine, Louis McDonald.
Louis never married. Because of a crippling disease, he had never known a day
without pain nor many days without loneliness. One winters day, as I visited him, he
was slow in answering the doorbells ring. I entered his well-kept home; the
temperature in save but one roomthe kitchenwas a chilly 40 degrees. The reason?
Insufficient money to heat any other room. The walls needed papering, the ceilings
needed to be lowered, the cupboards needed to be filled.
I was troubled by Louiss needs. A bishop was consulted, and a miracle of love,
prompted by testimony, took place. The members of the wardparticularly the young
adultswere organized and the labor of love begun.
A month later, my friend Louis called and asked if I would come and see what had
happened to him. I did and indeed beheld a miracle. The sidewalks which had been
uprooted by large poplar trees had been replaced, the porch of the home rebuilt, a
new door with glistening hardware installed, the ceilings lowered, the walls papered,

the woodwork painted, the roof replaced, and the cupboards filled. No longer was the
home chilly and uninviting. It now seemed to whisper a warm welcome.
Louis saved until last showing me his pride and joy: there on his bed was a beautiful
plaid quilt bearing the crest of his McDonald family clan. It had been made with loving
care by the women of the Relief Society. Before leaving, I discovered that each week
the Young Adults would bring in a hot dinner and share a home evening. Warmth had
replaced the cold, repairs had transformed the wear of years, but, more significantly,
hope had dispelled despair, and now love reigned triumphant.
All who participated in this moving drama of real life had discovered a new and
personal appreciation of the Masters teaching It is more blessed to give than to
receive.8
The holy scriptures are replete with examples of service by the servants of the Lord
and by Jesus Himself. Of Him it is recorded: [He] went about doing good, . . . for God
was with him.9 He caused lame beggars to walk and blind men to see. He cleansed
the lepers and healed the centurions servant. He restored to the widow at Nain her
dead son, who through Him now lived. He raised Lazarus from the tomb. He forgave
the woman taken in adultery. He atoned for the sins of all of us. He died that we might
eternally live.
As we go about our daily lives, we discover countless opportunities to follow the
example of the Savior. When our hearts are in tune with His teachings, we discover
the unmistakable nearness of His divine help. We are on the Lords errand, and when
we are on the Lords errand, we are entitled to the Lords help.
Through the years, the offices I have occupied have been decorated with lovely
paintings of peaceful and pastoral scenes. However, there is one picture that always
hangs on the wall which I face when seated behind my desk. It is a constant reminder
of Him whom I serve, for it is a picture of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When
confronted with a vexing problem or difficult decision, I always gaze at that picture of
the Master and silently ask myself the question What would He have me do? No
longer does doubt linger, nor does indecision prevail. The way to go is clear, and the
pathway before me beckons. Such will also work for each of you as you focus on what
the Lord would have you do.
The noble King Benjamin counseled his many subjects, after a lengthy but powerful
sermon on the subject of service: When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye
are only in the service of your God.10
At times we may think that no one caresbut someone always cares! Your Heavenly
Father will not leave you to struggle alone but stands ever ready to help. Most often
such assistance comes quietly, at other times with dramatic impact. Elder Marion D.
Hanks, some years ago, related an account of one who received such assistance. He
told of a young divorced woman, the mother of seven children then ranging in ages
from five to 16. One evening she went across the street to deliver something to a
neighbor. She indicated later that as she turned to walk back home, she could see her
house lighted up. She could hear echoes of her children as she had walked out of the
door a few minutes earlier: Mom, what are we going to have for dinner? Can you
take me to the library? Mom, I have to get some poster paper tonight. Tired and
weary, she thought of all of those children who were home waiting for her to come

home and meet their needs. She said that at that moment her burdens felt very
heavy on her shoulders.
She recalled looking through tears toward the sky, and she said, O my Father, I just
cant handle things tonight. Im too tired. I cant face it. I cant go home and take care
of all those children alone. Could I come to You and stay with You for just one night?
Ill come back in the morning.
She didnt really hear the words of reply, but she heard them in her mind. The answer
was, No, little one, you cant come to me now, for you would never wish to return.
But I can come to you.
Seek heavenly guidance one day at a time. The help you need may not come just as
you envision, but it will come. When we remember that each of us is literally a child of
God, we will not find it difficult to approach Him.
Seek heavenly help also to know how to serve others. There is no feeling so gratifying
nor knowledge so comforting as knowing that our Father has answered the prayer of
another through you.
I close with a tender yet simple experience. Each time I would visit Mattie, a dear
friend and an older widow whom I had known for many years and whose bishop I had
been, my heart grieved at her utter loneliness. One of her sons lived many miles
away, halfway across the country, but he rarely visited her. He would come to Salt
Lake, take care of business matters, see his brothers and sisters, and leave for his
own home without visiting his mother. When I would call to see this mother, she would
make an excuse for her boy and tell me just how busy he was. Her words did not carry
power or conviction. They simply masked her disappointment and grief.
The years passed. The loneliness deepened. Then one afternoon I received a
telephone call. That special son was in Salt Lake City. A change had occurred in his
life. He had become imbued with a desire to help others, to adhere more faithfully to
Gods commandments. He was proud of his newfound ability to cast off the old man
and become new and useful. He wanted to come immediately to my office that he
might share with me the joy in service that he now felt. With all my heart I wanted to
welcome him and to extend my personal congratulations. Then I thought of his
grieving mother, that lonely widow, and suggested, Dick, I can see you at four
oclock this afternoon, provided you visit your dear mother before coming here. He
agreed.
Just before our appointment, a call came to me. It was that same mother. There was
an excitement in her voice that words cannot adequately describe. She exuded
enthusiasm even over the phone and declared proudly, Bishop, youll never guess
who has just visited me. Before I could answer, she exclaimed, Dick was here! My
son Dick has spent the past hour with me. He is a new man. He has found himself. Im
the happiest mother in the world! Then she paused and quietly spoke: I just knew
he would not really forget me.
Years later, at Matties funeral, Dick and I spoke tenderly of that experience. We had
witnessed a glimpse of Gods healing power through the window of a mothers faith in
her son.

Today I pray earnestly that all of us may open wide the three gates of which I have
spokenthe Gate of Preparation, the Gate of Performance, and the Gate of Service
and walk through them to our exaltation. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Thomas S. Monson was First Counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints when this devotional talk was given on 14 November 2006.

Nov 13, 2007

Guideposts for Lifes Journey

Thomas S. Monson

My young brothers and sisters, what a glorious sight you are. It is an honor and a
privilege for me to be here with you. My responsibility today is great, for I realize that
your time is valuable, your talents are many, and your future is bright. Earnestly I seek
heavenly help in responding to this challenge.
I suppose every one of us in this congregation has had a few heart-stoppers in his or
her life. I know that I have. Before going forward with my general theme, I might mention
one or two of them.
This past general conference marked 44 years since I was called to serve as a member
of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in October of 1963. A few days following that
conference, I met with my colleagues for the first time in the fourth-floor room of the Salt
Lake Temple. Everything was so new to me. We were to partake of the sacrament that
day. As we prepared to receive it, President David O. McKay said, Before we partake of
the bread and water, I would like to invite our newest member, Brother Monson, to
instruct the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve on the atoning sacrifice of the Lord
Jesus Christ. We will hear from you now, Brother Monson. That was a heart-stopper for
me.
At the conclusion of the meeting, we moved to the lunchroom reserved for the First
Presidency and the Twelve, where we were to eat. As we sat around the table, President
McKay said, Brother Monson, do you believe that William Shakespeare really wrote the
sonnets attributed to him?
Yes, I responded, I do, President McKay.
He then exclaimed, Wonderful! So do I; so do I.
I thought to myself, I hope he moves away from Shakespeare. I was a business major.
However, he turned again to me and said, Brother Monson, do you read Shakespeare?
I said, Occasionally.

Fine, he said. What is your favorite work of Shakespeare?

I thought quicklyperhaps more a desperate prayer than a reasoned thoughtand
replied, Henry the Eighth.
Which is your favorite passage? he asked.
I had a heart-stopping situation right there. Then I thought of Cardinal Wolsey, that man
who served his king but neglected his God. I recited to President McKay what Cardinal
Wolsey lamented when he was shorn of all his power:
Had I but served my God with half the zeal
I served my king, he would not in mine age
Have left me naked to mine enemies.1
President McKay said, Oh, I love that passage, too. Then he changed the subject, for
which I shall be eternally grateful.
As we journey through mortality, heart-stoppers will come to each of us.
My young friends, I commend you for paying the price in time, in effort, in money to
obtain your education. Your parents may be sacrificing, skimping, and going without so
that you may be given the education which will enable you to excel in todays world.
Whatever your future pathway may be, may I suggest to you today four guideposts to
assist in your respective journeys through school and through life itself.
First: Glance backward.
Second: Look heavenward.
Third: Reach outward.
Fourth: Press onward.
Let us consider each in its turn. First, glance backward. A review of the past can be
helpfulthat is, if we learn from the mistakes and follies of those who have gone before,
and if we do not repeat them. John Toland, a Pulitzer Prizewinning author, in summing
up his monumental work The Rising Sun, declared:
I have done my utmost to let the events speak for themselves, and if any conclusion was
reached, it was that there are no simple lessons in history, that it is human nature that
repeats itself, not history.2

I have suggested merely a glance at the past, for it is not practical to think we can
return. Some of you may be familiar with Thornton Wilders classic drama Our Town. If
you are, you will remember the town of Grovers Corners. In the play, Emily Webb dies in
childbirth, and we read of the lonely grief of her young husband, George, left with their
four-year-old son. Emily does not wish to rest in peace; she wants to experience again
the joys of her life. She is granted the privilege to return to earth and to relive her twelfth
birthday. At first it is exciting to be young again, but the excitement wears off quickly.
The day holds no joy, now that Emily knows what is in store for the future. It is
unbearably painful to realize how unaware she had been of the meaning and wonder of
life while she was alive. Before returning to her resting place, Emily laments, Do any
human beings ever realize life while they live itevery, every minute?3
May each of us learn to appreciate the gift of life that we have been given. And, in that
context, at this time of year when we will soon be celebrating Thanksgiving, I would urge
all of us to glance backward in order to recognize those things for which we are thankful
and then to express appreciation to anyone to whom we owe a debt of gratitude. May
we express thanks to parents for caring, for sacrificing, for laboring in our behalf. May we
express thanks to friends, to professors, and to any others who have helped along the
way. May we express thanks to our Father in Heaven for the blessing of life and the
chance to return to Him. And may we express thanks to Him for the gift of His Only
Begotten Son, who died that we might live.
May the lessons we learn as we glance backward help us to live more fully each day of
our future.
Now that we have glanced backward, let us look heavenward. From the heavens came
the gentle invitation Look to God and live.4
We have not been left to wander in darkness and in silence, uninstructed, uninspired,
without revelation. One who knew and taught this truth was President Harold B. Lee, who
wrote this inscription on the title page of the triple combination of scripture which he
presented to his teenage daughter:
To My Dear Maurine,
That you may have a constant measure by which to judge between truth and the errors
of mans philosophies, and thus grow in spirituality as you increase in knowledge, I give
you this sacred book to read frequently and cherish throughout your life.
Lovingly, your father,
Harold B. Lee
From the scriptures, from the prophets, comes counsel for our time as we look
heavenward.

You have the blessing of receiving your education at an institution governed by the
principles and ideals of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where one of the
goals of the university is to build testimonies of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and
encourage living its principles.
Looking heavenward should be our lifelong endeavor. Some foolish persons turn their
backs on the wisdom of God and follow the allurement of fickle fashion, the attraction of
false popularity, and the thrill of the moment. Their course of conduct resembles the
disastrous experience of Esau, who exchanged his birthright for a mess of pottage.
And what are the results of such action? I testify to you today that turning away from
God brings broken covenants, shattered dreams, and crushed hopes. Such a quagmire of
quicksand I plead with you to avoid. You are of a noble birthright. Eternal life in the
kingdom of our Father is your goal.
Such a goal is not achieved in one glorious attempt, but rather is the result of a lifetime
of righteousness, an accumulation of wise choices, even a constancy of purpose and
lofty ideals.
Amidst the confusion of our age, the conflicts of conscience, and the turmoil of daily
living, an abiding faith becomes an anchor to our lives.
By reaching heavenward and seeking Heavenly Father in personal and family prayer, we
and our loved ones will develop the fulfillment of what the great English statesman
William E. Gladstone described as the worlds greatest need: a living faith in a personal
God.5 Such faith will illuminate our way as the lighthouse of the Lord.
When you have an abiding faith in the living God, when your outward actions reflect your
inner convictions, you have the composite strength of exposed and hidden virtues. They
combine to give safe passage through whatever rough seas might arise.
Wherever we may be, our Heavenly Father can hear and answer the prayer offered in
faith.
Many years ago, on my first visit to the fabled village of Sauniatu in Samoa, so loved by
President David O. McKay, my wife and I met with a large gathering of small children
nearly 200 in number. At the conclusion of our messages to these shy, yet beautiful
youngsters, I suggested to the native Samoan teacher that we go forward with the
closing exercises. As he announced the final hymn, I suddenly felt compelled to greet
personally each of these children. My watch revealed that the time was too short for
such a privilege, for we were scheduled on a flight out of the country, so I discounted the
impression. Before the benediction was to be spoken, I again felt that I should shake the
hand of each child. I made the desire known to the instructor, who displayed a broad and
beautiful Samoan smile. In Samoan he announced this to the children. They beamed
their approval.

The instructor then revealed to me the reason for his and their joy. He said, When we
learned that a member of the Council of the Twelve was to visit us here in Samoa, so far
away from Church headquarters, I told the children that if they would earnestly and
sincerely pray and exert faith like the Bible accounts of old, the Apostle would visit our
tiny village at Sauniatu, and, through their faith, he would be impressed to greet each
child with a personal handclasp. Tears could not be restrained as the precious boys and
girls walked shyly by and whispered softly to us the sweet Samoan greeting talofa
lava. A profound expression of faith had been evidenced.
Remember that faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one
will dispel the other.
Should doubt knock at your doorway, just say to those skeptical, disturbing, rebellious
thoughts: I propose to stay with my faith, with the faith of my people. I know that
happiness and contentment are there, and I forbid you agnostic, doubting thoughts to
destroy the house of my faith. I acknowledge that I do not understand the processes of
creation, but I accept the fact of it. I grant that I cannot explain the miracles of the Bible,
and I do not attempt to do so, but I accept Gods word. I wasnt with Joseph, but I believe
him. My faith did not come to me through science, and I will not permit so-called science
to destroy it.
As we look heavenward, we will receive divine direction. I bear witness to you today that
the sweetest spirit and feeling in all of mortality is when we have an opportunity to be on
the Lords errand and to know that He has guided our footsteps.
Very often on Sundays, when I am not otherwise assigned, I will attend a sacrament
meeting in one of the care centers located near my home. There, precious souls, all
confined to wheelchairs, meet in an attitude of worship. Worthy priesthood holders from
the surrounding area are called as bishops or branch presidents to preside over the care
center units, and priests and deacons are assigned each week to bless and pass the
sacrament. One cannot attend without being uplifted and inspired.
One Sunday a young man was to play the violin for the benefit of the elderly and
incapacitated throng. He began, and as he played, his music became sweeter with each
passing minute. Tears came to the young mans eyes as he later mentioned that the
notes tumbled through his mind, one following the other in perfect succession, and that
he had never played with such pure inspiration as he had that particular day. He
proffered, It wasnt my skill. It was the yearning of this special audience.
At the same meeting, an elderly lady called out, Im cold! A priest at the sacrament
table said nothing, but he arose and walked to her side. He then removed his own jacket
and placed it around the shoulders of the lady who was cold. To him I said, What you
have done today you will ever remember. Your act of kindness reflects the nobility of
your soul. You have been as the good Samaritan who aided the helpless traveler on the
road to Jericho.
As we look heavenward, we inevitably learn of our responsibility to reach outward.

To find real happiness, we must seek for it in a focus outside ourselves. No one has
learned the meaning of living until he has surrendered his ego to the service of his fellow
man. Service to others is akin to dutythe fulfillment of which brings true joy.
We do not live alonein our city, our nation, or our world. There is no dividing line
between our prosperity and our neighbors wretchedness. Love thy neighbor is more
than a divine truth. It is a pattern for perfection. This truth inspires the familiar charge
Go forth to serve. Try as some of us may, we cannot escape the influence our lives
have upon the lives of others. Ours is the opportunity to build, to lift, to inspire, and
indeed to lead.
The New Testament teaches that it is impossible to take a right attitude toward Christ
without taking an unselfish attitude toward men. Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one
of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.6 We may think as we
please, but there is no question about what the Bible teaches. In the New Testament
there is no road to the heart of God that does not lead through the heart of man.
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that a true Latter-day Saint
is to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to provide for the widow, to dry up the tear of
the orphan, to comfort the afflicted, whether in this church, or in any other, or in no
church at all, wherever he finds them.7
We cannot be careless in our reach. Lives of others depend on us. The power to lead is
indeed the power to mislead; and the power to mislead is the power to destroy.
Many have come into the Churchor at least have come to know and respect the Church
because someone made the effort to reach outward. I share with you a treasured
family experience which had its beginning back in 1959 when I was called to preside
over the Canadian Mission, headquartered in Toronto.
Our daughter, Ann, who is in the audience today, turned five shortly after we arrived in
Canada. She saw the missionaries going about their work and she, too, wanted to be a
missionary. My wife demonstrated understanding by permitting Ann to take to class a
few copies of the Childrens Friend. That wasnt sufficient for Ann. She also wanted to
take with her a copy of the Book of Mormon so that she might talk to her teacher, Miss
Pepper, about the Church. I think it rather thrilling that just a few years ago, long years
after our return from Toronto, we came home from a vacation and found in our mailbox a
note from Miss Pepper which read:
Dear Ann:
Think back many years ago. I was your schoolteacher in Toronto, Canada. I was
impressed by the copies of the Childrens Friend which you brought to school. I was
impressed by your dedication to a book called the Book of Mormon.

I made a commitment that one day I would come to Salt Lake City and see why you
talked as you did and why you believed in the manner you believed. Today I had the
privilege of going through your visitors center on Temple Square. Thanks to a five-yearold girl who had an understanding of that which she believed, I now have a better
understanding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Miss Pepper died not too long after that visit. How happy our daughter Ann was when
she attended the Jordan River Temple and performed the temple work for her beloved
teacher to whom she had reached out so many years ago.
And while we reach outward, we have the responsibility to press onward.
No one has described this life as being easy. Indeed, it has become increasingly more
difficult. The world seems to have slipped from the moorings of safety and drifted from
the harbor of peace. Permissiveness, immorality, pornography, and the power of peer
pressure cause many to be tossed about on a sea of sin and crushed on the jagged reefs
of lost opportunities, forfeited blessings, and shattered dreams.
Anxiously we ask, Is there a way to safety? Can someone guide us? Is there an escape
from threatened destruction?
The answer is a resounding yes! I counsel you: Look to the lighthouse of the Lord. There
is no fog so dense, no night so dark, no gale so strong, no mariner so lost but what its
beacon light can rescue. It calls, This way to safety; this way to home.
Press onward we must. The Apostle Paul described life as a race. He said, Know ye not
that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may
obtain.8
The writer of the book of Ecclesiastes also wrote of this subject, saying, The race is not
to the swift, nor the battle to the strong.9 Actually, the prize belongs to him who
endures to the end.
In the private sanctuary of ones own conscience lies that spirit, that determination, to
press onward and to measure up to the stature of true potential. But the way is rugged,
and the course is strenuous. So discovered John Helander from Gteborg, Sweden. John
was a young adult. He had the same yearnings for the blessings of success as do all. But
John is handicapped, in that it is difficult for him to coordinate his motions.
At an activity of young people in Kungsbacka, Sweden, John took part in an 800-meter
running race. He had no chance to win. Rather, his was the possibility of being
humiliated, mocked, derided, scorned. Perhaps John remembered another who lived long
ago and far away. Wasnt He mocked? Wasnt He derided? Wasnt He scorned? But He
prevailed. He won His race. Maybe John could win his.
What a race it is! Struggling, surging, pressing, the runners bolt far beyond John. There is
wonderment among the spectators. Who is this runner who lags so far behind? The

participants, on their second lap of this two-lap race, pass John while he is but halfway
through the first lap. Tension mounts as the runners press toward the tape. Who will win?
Who will place second? Then comes the final burst of speed; the tape is broken. The
crowd cheers; the winner is proclaimed.
The race is overor is it? Who is this contestant who continues to run when the race is
ended? He crosses the finish line on but his first lap. Doesnt he know he has lost? Ever
onward he struggles, the only participant now on the track. This is his race. This must be
his victory. No one among the vast throng of spectators leaves. Every eye is on this
valiant runner. He makes the final turn and moves toward the finish line. There is awe;
there is admiration. Every spectator sees himself running his own race of life. As John
approaches the finish line, the audience, as one, rises to its feet. There is a loud
applause of acclaim. Stumbling, falling, exhausted but victorious, John Helander breaks
the newly tightened tape. (Officials are human beings, too.) The cheering echoes for
miles. And just maybe, if the ear is carefully attuned, that Great Scorekeepereven the
Lordcan be heard to say, Well done, thou good and faithful servant.10
Each of us is a runner in the race of life. Comforting is the fact that there are many
runners. Reassuring is the knowledge that our Eternal Scorekeeper is understanding.
Challenging is the truth that each must run. But you and I do not run alone. We take
confidence from the hymn: Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,For I am thy
God and will still give thee aid.Ill strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to
stand,Upheld by my righteous, . . . omnipotent hand.. . . . . . .The soul that on Jesus hath
leaned for reposeI will not, I cannot, desert to his foes;That soul, though all hell should
endeavor to shake,Ill never, no never, no never forsake!11
Let us shed any thought of failure. Let us discard any habit or trait that may hinder. Let
us ever press onward. Let us seek; let us obtain the prize prepared for alleven
exaltation in the celestial kingdom of God.
Your future is bright. It is challenging. It awaits you. Do not venture forth alone. Minnie
Louise Haskins counseled:
I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, Give me a light, that I may tread
safely into the unknown. And he replied, Go out into the darkness and put your hand
into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known
way.12
Safe journey, my beloved friends, as you glance backward, look heavenward, reach
outward, and press onward and find your way safely home again. This is my prayer for
each of us, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Thomas S. Monson was first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints when this devotional address was given on 13 November
2007.

Jan 11, 2009

Great Expectations
Thomas S. Monson
My dear young friends, the spirit which permeates this meeting here in the Marriott
Center at Brigham Young University and in hundreds of other locations throughout the
world is a reflection of your strength, your devotion, and your goodness. How grateful
I am to be with you this evening. You bring to mind the words penned by the poet
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:
How beautiful is youth! how bright it gleams
With its illusions, aspirations, dreams!
Book of Beginnings, Story without End,
Each maid a heroine, and each man a friend!1
In addition to being with all of you, Im pleased to be with members of my family
tonight.
Recently I reread an old favorite of mine by Charles Dickens entitled Great
Expectations. You who have read this classic will recall that Dickens speaks of a young
boy by the name of Philip Pirrip, more commonly known as Pip. Little Pip was an
orphan who could not remember ever having seen his mother or his father. He had all
the desires of a boy. He wished with all his heart that he were a scholar. He wished
that he were a gentleman. He wished that he were less ignorant. Yet all of his
ambitions and all of his hopes seemed doomed to failure until one day a London
lawyer by the name of Jaggers approached little Pip and told him that an unknown
benefactor had bequeathed a fortune to him. Then that lawyer said that little Pip was
a young fellow of great expectations.2
Today, as I contemplate who you are and what you are, who you may become and
what you may become, I say to you, as that lawyer said about Pip, you have great
expectationsnot as the result of an unknown benefactor, but as the result of a
known benefactoreven our Heavenly Fatherand great things are expected of you.
Prepare for the Race of Life
Many of you here tonight are close to completing your formal education. (Well have a
moment of cheer on that one.) Others of you have additional periods of academic
preparation ahead. Each is in what could be called the race of life.
The writer of the book of Ecclesiastes wrote, The race is not to the swift, nor the
battle to the strong (Ecclesiastes 9:11); it is to him who endures to the end. The race
of life is so important, the prize so valued, that great emphasis must necessarily be
placed on adequate and thorough preparation.
When we contemplate the eternal nature of our choices, preparation is a vital factor in
our lives. The day will come when we will look upon our period of preparation and be
grateful that we properly applied ourselves.
Many years ago, before I was called to the Quorum of the Twelve, I had the
opportunity to address a business convention in Dallas, Texasknown as the city of
churches. After the convention I took a sightseeing bus ride about the citys suburbs.
As we would pass the beautiful churches, our driver would comment, On the left you
see the Methodist church, or There on the right is the Catholic cathedral. As we

passed a beautiful red brick building situated upon a hill, the driver informed us, That
building is where the Mormons meet.
A ladys voice from the rear of the bus asked, Driver, can you tell us something about
the Mormons? The driver pulled the bus over to the side of the road, turned around
in his seat, and replied, Lady, all I know about the Mormons is that they meet in that
red brick building. Is there anyone on this bus who knows anything about the
Mormons?
I gazed at the expression on each persons face for some sign of recognition, some
desire to comment. I found nothingnot a sign. Then I realized the truth of the
statement When the time for decision arrives, the time for preparation is past. For
the next 15 minutes I had the privilege of giving, as Peter declared, a reason [for] the
hope that is in you (1 Peter 3:15). At that time I developed a much greater
appreciation concerning the matter of preparation.
Actually, my young friends, the period of your preparation did not begin the day you
walked into your first college or university classes. It began long before you ever
came to mortality, when we lived as spirit children of our Heavenly Father. I am so
grateful that in His wisdom He has given us a record, in the book of Abraham, which
tells us something of that existence:
Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized
before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great
ones;
And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and
he said: These I will make my rulers; for he stood among those [who] were spirits, and
he saw that they were good; and he said unto me: Abraham, thou art one of them;
thou wast chosen before thou wast born.
And there stood one among them that was like unto God, and he said unto those who
were with him: We will go down, for there is space there, and we will take of these
materials, and we will make an earth whereon these may dwell;
And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord
their God shall command them;
And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and they who keep not their
first estate shall not have glory in the same kingdom with those who keep their first
estate; and they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their
heads forever and ever. [Abraham 3:2226]
Then, in the wisdom of our Heavenly Father, you and I were born into mortality and
welcomed into loving families.
I pause to let you know how much your families pray for you. They worry about you.
They wonder how youre getting along. They love you so much. Dont disappoint
them.
The Lord tells us in the Doctrine and Covenants that during the first eight years of our
lives, power is not given unto Satan to tempt us as little children (see D&C 29:4647).
We had an eight-year head start on Lucifer.

This information was given by the Lord to the Prophet Joseph Smith back in 1830. In
our own time Dr. Glenn Doman, a renowned scholar and scientist who has almost
definitely never heard of the revelation quoted, has, through his research, come to
the conclusion that
a newborn child is almost an exact duplicate of [a] computer, although superior to
one in almost every way.
What is placed in the childs brain during the first eight years of life is probably there
to stay. If you put misinformation into his brain during this period, it is extremely
difficult to erase it.
He believed that the most receptive age in human life is that of two or three years
old.3
You might ask, Why is President Monson emphasizing this? Our first eight-year period
of learning is long past. But you, my brothers and sisters, are going to be parents
one day, and you will want to emphasize the importance to your children and to your
future generations of descendants of that first eight-year period.
When I consider some of the things you and I no doubt did as children, as teenagers,
and as young adults, I think it is a wonder at times that our parents survived, let alone
retained their sanity. One woman who had been experiencing a very challenging
morning trying to keep her children under control felt that she was about to lose her
sanity.
Her small son, Matthew, came to her and said brightly, Mom, you remember that
vase that your grandmother gave to your mother, and she gave to you, and you are
always worried that I am going to break it?
Yes, she said.
Well, Matthew replied, you can quit worrying!
Prepare Academically
You, my brothers and sisters, have now entered into another great preparation period
in order that you might qualify for the race of life. I speak of academic preparation.
This is important because it is here that we learn the lessons which will help us meet
the challenges of this changing world in which we live.
Just a few generations ago, if someone were applying for a position of responsibility in
the business world, a personnel director would probably ask: Are you willing to work
hard? Are you healthy? And if the answers to those questions were Yes, chances
are hed be hired.
This, of course, is not so today. Assuming ones applicationusually submitted online
is chosen for a personal interview, the modern human resource director will ask
such questions as What sort of degree do you have? What contributions can you make
to our firm? Which computer programs can you use skillfully?
Put Forth the Effort
Many years ago I had the opportunity to teach at the university level, and I remember
that some students seemed to know where they were going. They applied
themselves, they had objectives, they had goals, and they worked toward the
achievement of these objectives and goals. But other students could not have cared

less. They seemed to be drifting on a sea of chance, with waves of failure threatening
to engulf them. First they became lazy, then discouraged, and then indifferent, and
then they became dropouts.
One such student who dropped out of school went home to his mother and said,
Mom, Ive quit school. Im going out to make my own way in the world. He packed
his suitcase and went out to meet life head-on. After three weeks of meeting life, he
called his mother. Mom, he said, remember telling me when I left home that if I
quit school I wouldnt be able to get a job? Well, you were wrong. Ive only been out
on the road for three weeks, and Ive already had six jobs!
In your pursuit of excellence, real effort is required. Remember, he which soweth
sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also
bountifully (2 Corinthians 9:6).
Life is a sea upon which the proud are humbled, the shirker is exposed, and the leader
is revealed. To sail it safely and reach your desired port, you need to keep your charts
at hand and up-to-date. You need to learn by the experience of others, to stand firm
for principles, to broaden your interests, to be understanding of the rights of others to
sail the same sea, and to be reliable in the discharge of your duty.
Your efforts in school will have a notable effect on your opportunities after you leave
school. As you struggle for that grade point average, dont overlook the importance of
really learning to think. Henry Ford, the great industrialist, said:
An educated man is not one whose memory is trained to carry a few dates in history
he is one who can accomplish things. A man who cannot think is not an educated
man however many college degrees he may have acquired. Thinking is the hardest
work any one can dowhich is probably the reason why we have so few thinkers.4
Prepare Spiritually
Greater than our period of academic preparation is the matter of spiritual preparation.
We must acquire for ourselves a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which
testimony will be an anchor to our soul.
In this inquiring, uncertain period of your lives, some of you may ask, as did Pilate, the
Roman procurator in Judea at the time of Christ, What is truth? (John 18:38). And
again we turn to the revelations for guidance:
And that which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness.
That which is of God is light. [D&C 50:2324]
Thousands of honest, searching souls continue to be confronted by that penetrating
question which coursed through the mind of Joseph Smith as he surveyed the
declarations made by the churches of his community concerning who is right and who
is wrong. Joseph said:
In the midst of this war of words and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself: What is
to be done? Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all wrong together? If any
one of them be right, which is it, and how shall I know it? . . .
At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and
confusion, or else I must do as James directs, that is, ask of God. [Joseph Smith
History 1:10, 13]

He prayed. The results of that prayer are best described in Josephs own words. You
know them:
I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing
above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said,
pointing to the otherThis is My Beloved Son. Hear Him! [Joseph SmithHistory 1:17;
emphasis in original]
Joseph listened; Joseph learned. His question had been answered.
To those who humbly seek, there is no need to stumble or falter along the pathway
leading to truth. It is well marked by our Heavenly Father. We must first have a desire
to know for ourselves. We must study. We must pray. We must do the will of the
Father. And then we will know the truth, and the truth will make us free. Divine favor
will attend those who humbly seek it. That is a promise which I leave with you. Think
of it.
Remember that doubt and faith cannot exist in the mind at the same time, for one will
dispel the other. Whereas doubt destroys, faith fulfills. An attitude of faith brings one
closer to God and to His purposes.
President David O. McKay often mentioned:
Mans earthly existence is but a test as to whether he will concentrate his efforts, his
mind, his soul, upon things which contribute to the comfort and gratification of his
physical nature, or whether he will make as his lifes pursuit the acquisition of
spiritual qualities.5
Faith implies a certain trust, even a reliance, upon the word of our Creator.
If you should have doubting thoughts, remember the counsel given by President
Stephen L Richards, a former counselor in the First Presidency, who declared:
Just say to those skeptical, disturbing, rebellious thoughts, I propose to stay with my
faith, with the faith of my people. I know that happiness and contentment are there
and I forbid you, agnostic, doubting thoughts, to destroy the house of my faith. I
acknowledge that I do not understand the processes of creation, but I accept the fact
of it. I grant that I cannot explain the miracles of the Bible and I do not attempt to do
so, but I accept Gods word. I wasnt with Joseph, but I believe him. My faith did not
come to me through science and I will not permit science to destroy it.6
As your preparatory period at school comes to a close and you embark on the great
race of life, may I suggest some helpful hints which will assist you to achieve your
great expectations.
Avoid Lifes Pitfalls
First, avoid the pitfalls in the track. Avoid the detours which will deprive you of your
celestial reward. You can recognize them if you will. They may be labeled Oh, just
this once wont matter or My parents are so old-fashioned.
Bad habits also can be such pitfalls. At first we could break them if we would. Later,
we would break them if we could. John Dryden, an influential English poet and
playwright of the 17th century, wrote:

Ill habits gather by unseen degrees,

As brooks make rivers, rivers run to seas.7
Good habits, on the other hand, are the souls muscles. The more you use them, the
stronger they grow.
Our Heavenly Father has counseled us to seek after anything virtuous, lovely, or of
good report or praiseworthy (Articles of Faith 1:13). Permissiveness, immorality, and
the power of peer pressure cause many to be tossed about on a sea of sin and
crushed on the jagged reefs of lost opportunities, forfeited blessings, and shattered
dreams.
Whatever you read, listen to, or watch makes an impression on you.
Avoid any semblance of pornography. It is dangerous and addictive. If you continue to
view pornography, your spirit will become desensitized and your conscience will
erode.
Dont be afraid to walk out of a movie, turn off a television set, or change the radio
station if whats being presented does not meet your Heavenly Fathers standards. In
short, if you have any question about whether a particular movie, book, or other form
of entertainment is appropriate, dont see it, dont read it, dont participate.
Persevere Toward Goals
Second, beware of the flashy start and the fade-out finish. I love the simple wisdom
found in this poem by an unknown author. I dont think its a literary masterpiece, but
you can understand it.
Stick to your task till it sticks to you;
Beginners are many, but enders are few.
Honor, power, place, and praise
Will come, in time, to the one who stays.
Stick to your task till it sticks to you;
Bend at it, sweat at it, smile at it too;
For out of the bend and the sweat and the smile
Will come lifes victories, after awhile.8
Formula W is interesting: Work will win when wishy-washy wishing wont. An
attitude of work results in the capacity to make continuous effort toward the
accomplishment of a given goal.
Ive always been an ardent sports fan. Long will I remember one sportscaster as he
praised the marvelous performance of Y. A. Tittle, one of the all-time great
professional football quarterbacks. He said:
This will be the key play of the game. Tittle has the snap from center; he fades to
throw, but his line cannot hold. It appears the game is over.
Wait! Wait! Tittle has eluded his tacklers; hes fallen deep behind the line. He cocks
his arm to throw, and the pass is away and caught in the end zone for a touchdown.
That was a great second effort by Y. A. Tittle!

In the game of life, a second effort is often required. The happy life is not ushered in
at any age to the sound of drums and trumpets. It grows upon us year by year, little
by little, until at last we realize that we have it. It is achieved by a body of work done
so well that we can lift our heads with assurance and look the world in the eye.
Follow the example of Christopher Columbus. Take a leaf out of the log of his journal
on his first voyage. Day after day, as they hoped to find land and never found it, he
wrote simply, This day we sailed on.9 Perseverance will pay rich rewards.
Help Others
Third, help others in their race of life. Remember that when you help another up a
mountain, you are a little nearer the top yourself. Try to look at your brother or your
sister in the right perspective. One man said, I looked at my brother through the
microscope of criticism, and I said, How coarse my brother is. I looked at my brother
through the telescope of scorn, and I said, How small my brother is. Then I looked
into the mirror of truth, and I said, How like me my brother is.
An attitude of love characterized the mission of the Master. He gave sight to the blind,
legs to the lame, and life to the dead. Perhaps when we make face-to-face contact
with our Maker, we will not be asked, How many positions did you hold? but rather,
How many people did you help? In reality, you can never love the Lord until you
serve Him by serving His people.
Seek the Lords Help
Fourth, and finally, seek the help of the Lord. Souls are preciousyour soul and my
soul. Our Heavenly Father Himself has said so.
Remember that we do not run alone in this great race of life; we are entitled to the
help of the Lord. To the Hebrews the Apostle Paul urged:
Lay aside . . . sin . . . , and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Looking [for an example] unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. [Hebrews
12:12]
Before we can take Him as our companion, before we can follow Him as our guide, we
must find Him. In order to find Him, I would like to suggest, first of all, that we must
make room for Him in our lives. He said, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the
air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head (Matthew 8:20).
The physician Luke described the nativity scene: And she brought forth her firstborn
son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there
was no room for them in the inn (Luke 2:7).
The invitation of the Lord is directed to each of us. Think of it as the words of the Lord
to you individually: Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice,
and open the door, I will come in to him [and, I might add, to her] (Revelation 3:20).
Oh, my young brothers and sisters, make room for the Lord in your homes and in your
hearts, and He will be your companion. He will be by your side. He will teach you the
way of truth. With His help, and with the preparation about which we have spoken,
you can go forward in this race of life and achieve your own great expectations. Then,
at the conclusion of it all, youll be able to say, I have fought a good fight, I have
finished my course, I have kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7).

By so doing, the blessings of heaven will attend. He who notes the sparrows fall will,
in His own way, acknowledge our service.
Let me share with you an experience that illustrates this assurance.
Brother Edwin Q. Cannon Jr., we call him Ted, was a missionary to Germany in 1938.
He loved the people and served faithfully. At the conclusion of his mission, he
returned home to Salt Lake City. He married and commenced his own business.
Forty years passed by. One day Brother Cannon came to my office and said he had
been pruning his missionary photographs. (Thats a good word. You go through all of
them, throw two away, and keep all rest.) Among those photographs he had kept
since his mission were several which he could not specifically identify. Every time he
had planned to discard them, he had been impressed to keep them, although he was
at a loss as to why. They were photographs taken by Brother Cannon during his
mission when he served in Stettin, Germany, and were of a familya mother, a
father, a small girl, and a small boy. He knew their surname was Berndt but could
remember nothing more about them. He indicated that he understood there was a
Berndt who was a Church leader in Germany, and he thought, although the possibility
was remote, that this Berndt might have some connection with the Berndts who had
lived in Stettin and who were depicted in the photographs. Before disposing of the
photos, he thought he would check with me.
I told Brother Cannon I was leaving shortly for Berlin, where I anticipated that I would
see Dieter Berndt, the Church leader, and that I would show the photographs to him
to see if there was any relationship and if he wanted them. There was a possibility I
would also see Brother Berndts sister, who was married to Dietmar Matern, a stake
president in Hamburg.
The Lord didnt even let me get to Berlin before His purposes were accomplished. I
was in Zurich, Switzerland, boarding the flight to Berlin, when who should also board
the plane but Dieter Berndt. He sat next to me, and I told him I had some old photos
of people named Berndt from Stettin. I handed them to him and asked if he could
identify those shown in the photographs. As he looked at them carefully, he began to
weep. He said, Our family lived in Stettin during the war. My father was killed when
an Allied bomb struck the plant where he worked. Not long afterward, the Russians
invaded Poland and the area of Stettin. My mother took my sister and me and fled
from the approaching enemy. Everything had to be left behind, including any
photographs we had. Brother Monson, I am the little boy pictured in these
photographs, and my sister is the little girl. The man and woman are our dear parents.
Until today, I had no photographs of our childhood in Stettin or of my father.
Wiping away my own tears, I told Brother Berndt the photographs were his. He placed
them carefully and lovingly in his briefcase.
At the next general conference, when Dieter Berndt visited Salt Lake City, he paid a
visit to Brother and Sister Edwin Cannon Jr. so that he might express in person his
gratitude for the inspiration that came to Brother Cannon to retain these precious
photographs and for the fact that he followed that inspiration in keeping them for 40
years.
William Cowper penned the lines:

God moves in a mysterious way

His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
...
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.10
This testimony I bear to you, this witness I give unto you, that God lives, that Jesus is
the Christ, the Son of the Living God, that He is our Elder Brother, He is our Redeemer,
He is our Savior, and He is the author of your great expectations.
I leave with you my blessing; I express to you my love. You are a choice generation
with great expectations. May our Heavenly Father ever guide and bless you; may you
strive always to achieve those great expectations, I pray, in the name of Jesus Christ,
our Savior, amen.
Thomas S. Monson was president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when
this devotional address was delivered on 11 January 2009.

Sep 15, 2009

Principles from Prophets

Thomas S. Monson

Thomas S. Monson was President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when
this devotional address was delivered on 15 September 2009.
I have looked forward to the opportunity of accepting the assignment and the invitation
to be with you today, for I realize you are the heart and soul of many of the parents of
this Church, all over the world. What a glorious sight you are! I am also pleased to
recognize the officers and faculty members of this fine institution.
My dear young brothers and sisters, you are in the prime of your lives. You are on the
cutting edge of progress. You live in a time of extreme difficulties but also a time of
exceptional opportunities. I think the nation and the world have never been beset with a
greater variety of challenges to meet and problems to solve, and you and those similar
to you are destined to meet those challenges and to solve those problems. I know you
can, because the Lord will provide the help you need.
I love the passage from the book of Acts in the New Testament where we read of the
confrontation between a man from Ethiopia, who was reading from scripture, and Philip
of old. Philip asked the man if he understood the words he was reading. The man replied
to Philip, How can I, except some man should guide me?1 Of course Philip sat with him
and guided him in his understanding.

Just last Thursday I was sitting in the room in the Salt Lake Temple where the First
Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve meet once each week. I gazed up at the wall which
faces the First Presidency, and there I observed a portrait of each President of the
Church. As my gaze moved from the Prophet Joseph right down through President
Hinckley, I thought, We have had great Presidents of this Church. Each one has guided
us; his writings have stimulated us; his messages have inspired us. To show us the way,
we have those whom the Lord has provided.
Some years ago I spoke here of the Presidents of the Church I have known, giving brief
personal glimpses. Today I would like to mention each one in greater depth.
The man who was President of the Church when I was born and who was president until I
was nearly eighteen years old was the seventh President of the Church, Heber J. Grant.
He was ordained and set apart as President on November 23, 1918, at the age of 62.
The Church was a little different when President Grant was President. His personal office
was what we refer to now as the First Presidency Boardroom. He sat at a large, rather
imposing desk in the enormous room, and just about anyone could drop in to see him.
The Church was relatively small at the time. A friend of mine told me that he and another
young man had been asked to visit President Grant to see if he would come to their ward
and speak at the commemoration of the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood they were
planning. He said they walked through the front door of the Church Administration
Building, walked to the back of the building where President Grants secretary sat, and
said, Is the President in?
She replied, Yes, would you like to see him?
They answered in the affirmative and were shown into that beautiful boardroom.
President Grant welcomed them and said, What can I do for you two young men today?
They made their request, and President Grant responded, Of course Id be happy to
come and speak to the young men. Give me the date and time, and Ill be there. He
stood, and they thanked him and left. President Grant visited their ward on the appointed
date.
This scenario probably took place in the early 1930s, and I can assure you that
everything is handled much differently today.
President Grant presided during a time when there was tremendous change in the world,
including the financial challenges of the Great Depression. He assisted in the
development of the welfare program of the Church and helped the members cope with
the tragedy of World War II.
He was a persistent person. As a boy he wanted to learn how to throw a baseball. He was
not as good as he desired to be, so he practiced hour after hour throwing the ball at a
target marked on the barn door. He became very proficient. He also was a poor penman,
but through extensive practice he developed beautiful penmanship.

President Grant loved to stand before the priesthood of the Church. Those were the days
when everything was a little less structured, and hed go to the microphone and say,
Were now in priesthood session. Were off the record. The press is not in attendance.
Then hed discuss any subject he chose.
On one occasion he stood in priesthood meeting and said, I have a letter from a man
who made a suggestion concerning what subject I should address at conference. This
man said he felt I had spoken too many times concerning the Word of Wisdom and
strongly urged me to speak on a different topic. President Grant continued, That is one
man who obviously needs to hear more about the Word of Wisdom, and therefore I shall
address that topic tonight, and he did so.
President Grants favorite song was Do What Is Right. And let me add the words let
the consequence follow.2 Think of that: Do what is right. President Grant lived by the
words of that song. His favorite food was bread and milkvery common, simple fare. A
favorite quotation of his is attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson: That which we persist in
doing becomes easier to do; not that the nature of the thing has changed, but that our
capacity to do has increased.3 What would be the trait of President Heber J. Grant that
he would probably have you remember and incorporate in your life? I feel it would be
persistence. Persist in all those things which are good and noble.
After 27 years as President of the Church, President Grant passed away on May 14, 1945,
at the age of 88.
I move next to President George Albert Smith, the eighth President of the Church,
ordained and set apart as President on May 21, 1945, at the age of 75. He was president
of the Church when I served as a bishop, and he signed my bishops certificate.
I believe one of President Smiths most noble accomplishments was after World War II.
Starvation was rampant in Germany and in other nations of Europe. President Smith met
with United States President Harry S. Truman and said, Wed like to send welfare
supplies to the starving people of Europe, but the bureaucracy and the red tape in
postwar Europe are keeping us from doing so.
President Truman heard his plea and opened the way. He asked, How many months will
it take for you to assemble your supplies?
President Smith replied, President Truman, theyre already assembled. All you need do
is say go, and theyll be rolling within twenty-four hours.
President Truman was taken aback by this slender man who spoke rather softlybut oh,
could he move things along. The supplies were sent, and Elder Ezra Taft Benson was also
sent to oversee their distribution. Lives were saved as a result.
This great leader had such a compassionate heart. A personal friend of mine told me of
an example of such compassion. He said his uncle Junius Burt worked on the street
department crew for Salt Lake City, and on a very cold day many years ago, he and

others on the crew were chipping ice with shovels and hand implements from South
Temple Street between State Street and Main Street. President George Albert Smith said
to one of the workers who had no coat, You should wear a coat today. Its too cold to be
out here in this very frigid weather working as you are working.
The man, who did not know President Smith, replied, I have no coat to wear.
President Smith then removed his own coat, handed it to the man, and said, Here, you
take this coat and wear it. I work just across the street, and I can get there without a
coat.
Received by that worker that day was more than an overcoat. Received was a gesture of
kindness which the recipient of the coat and his coworkers never forgot.
President George Albert Smiths favorite song was Let Us Oft Speak Kind Words,4
which he personified. His favorite food was apple pie with a little warm milk on it. What
was one of his favorite statements? He always taught, There is a great tug-of-war going
on between the Lord and the adversary. Stay safely on the Lords side of the line. Oh,
how applicable it is today in our lives! A trait of President Smiths which he would no
doubt encourage us to incorporate in our lives would be compassion. This great leader
had a compassionate heart.
President George Albert Smith served as President of the Church for six years, passing
away on his 81st birthday, April 4, 1951.
Now we move to David O. McKay, the ninth President of the Church. He was sustained as
President on April 9, 1951. I remember sitting in the Tabernacle on that day. He was 77
years old.
Just over twelve years later, in October of 1963, President McKay extended to me a call
to serve as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. As I sat there in his office,
he had me pull my chair up very close to him, and he put his hand on my knee. His eyes
penetrated to my very soul. I will simply say this much about a very sacred experience
which I dont share often. He said, Brother Monson, the Lord has called you to the
apostleship. You will become the newest member of the Council of the Twelve. We both
wept a little bit. I later wept a lot more when I realized the extent of my responsibilities.
President McKay was a man of many attributes, but one which stands out is that of
consideration. He was always considerate of others. Let me illustrate. I was in his office
on one occasion prior to my call to the Twelve. I did the printing of his books, as I did for
many of the other Brethren. On that particular occasion I noticed a painting on the wall,
and I said to him, President McKay, thats a lovely painting. Is it a rendition of your
childhood home in Huntsville, Utah?
President McKay sat back in his chair, gave a familiar David O. McKay chuckle, and said,
Let me tell you about that picture. A sweet woman came in to see me one day and
presented to me that beautiful painting, framed and ready to be placed on the wall. She

said, `President McKay, I have spent the entire summer painting this picture of your
ancestral home. He said he thanked her profusely and accepted the gift. Do you know,
Brother Monson, he continued, that sweet woman painted the wrong house. She
painted the house next door! I didnt have the heart to tell her. She may come back, so
thats why its hanging on the wall. But then he made this comment, and here is a vital
lesson for us. He said, In reality, Brother Monson, she painted the right house, because
when, as a young boy, I would lie on the bed which was on the front porch of my
ancestral home, the view I had through that screened porch was of the very house she
painted. She did paint the right house for me.
President McKays favorite song was Oh Say, What Is Truth?5 His favorite food:
Cummings chocolates.
What would be an expression of his? From his own heart and soul he said, True
Christianity is love in action.6
Again, the noble principle from President McKay that I would share with you today is
consideration. May we ever be considerate.
President McKay served nineteen years as President, until his death January 18, 1970, at
the age of 96.
Next I mention Joseph Fielding Smith, tenth President of the Church. He was ordained
and set apart on January 23, 1970, at the age of 93.
On one occasion I was touring the missions in the South Pacific, having left my wife and
family at home. I remember that when I arrived at Auckland, New Zealand, after four or
five weeks of meetings in many countries, there was a letter for me from Joseph Fielding
Smith, who at that time was my quorum president. He wrote, Dear Brother Monson, Ive
been thinking about you and thought youd like to know that all is well here at home, and
I am very pleased that you are in the South Pacific area of the world. My prayers have
been with you. We are ready to welcome you home when you return. Sincerely, Joseph
Fielding Smith. What a kind and thoughtful thing to do.
As one of the Churchs most prolific writers, President Smiths numerous books and
articles helped educate generations of Latter-day Saints concerning the history and
doctrine of the Church. He was direct in his teaching of adherence to gospel principles,
and yet he was particularly tender in his attitude toward those who fell short.
His favorite song was Prayer Is the Souls Sincere Desire. And Ill add the next thought:
uttered or unexpressed.7 And as for his favorite food, I observed him at our luncheon
table in the temple on Thursdays, and he seemed to love sweet pickles. I hate them! I
would see to it that he got the sweet pickles, and Id take the dill pickles.
What would be a favorite quotation from President Smith? From the book of Alma in the
Book of Mormon he emphasized the scripture Wickedness never was happiness.8 Ill
repeat it: Wickedness never was happiness.

What would be his guiding principle for us? It would be gospel scholarship. He was truly a
scholar. I believe we could say that he would leave for you and for me this advice: Be
studious. I say that to you as student body members too: be studious. When it is test
week, youll be grateful you were studious!
President Joseph Fielding Smith served as President of the Church for two and a half
years, until his death on July 2, 1972, at the age of 95.
Harold B. Lee, eleventh President of the Church, was ordained and set apart as President
on July 7, 1972, at the age of 73.
I was with President Lee on one occasion in New York City, where he had an interview
with George Cornell, the senior writer of religion for the Associated Press. As we sat
there, George Cornell said to President Lee, Id like to talk to you about some of the
controversial aspects of your Church.
As he mentioned one or two of them, Brother Lee said, George, your readers do not
want to hear about that. What your readers want to hear about is the great welfare
program of the Church and the outstanding education program of the Church. Mr.
Cornell began to take notes, and as a result an almost full-page story from the
Associated Press described our educational effort and our welfare program. No mention
whatsoever was made of the controversial subjects of that time. This was the persuasive
ability of Harold B. Lee.
President Lee also took time to teach. A lesson I will recount is rather tender. On one
occasion our oldest son had a tumor in his leg, and we were naturally very worried, as
were the doctors. Our son was in the hospital to have surgery, which could possibly lead
to the amputation of his leg. Brother Lee had been my stake president as a boy, so I
asked him if he would join me in giving a blessing to our son. He consented, and as we
met at the hospital one evening after work, he stopped me before we went up the
stairway and said, Tom, there is nowhere in the world I would rather be, and there is
nothing that I would rather be doing than standing by your side in giving a priesthood
blessing to your son. The operation was successful; the tumor was benign. I shall ever
be indebted to Harold B. Lee for being where the Lord needed him to be at a particular
time.
One of President Lees favorite songs was Praise to the Manwho communed with
Jehovah!9 Ill pause for a moment and say that when I was first called to the Twelve, I
noted that Brother Lee was playing the organ. And he said, Brother Monson, as our
newest apostle, would you choose the song youd like for us to sing today? And I chose
his favorite, and we all sang it with gusto.
A favorite food of his was bread and milk, and a favorite quotation of his was Stand ye
in holy places, and be not moved.10 Remember this. I will repeat it: Stand ye in holy
places, and be not moved. What would be a guiding principle from him? I would say he
would encourage us to be in tune with and to be responsive to the whisperings of the
Holy Spirit.

Harold B. Lee served just one and a half years as President of the Church. He passed
away on December 26, 1973, at the age of 74.
After President Lee came President Spencer W. Kimball, twelfth President of the Church,
ordained and set apart as President on December 30, 1973, at the age of 78.
For President Kimball, obstacles became his opportunities. He was totally dedicated, a
worker such as one seldom sees. He cared not at all about personal aggrandizement.
One day I was sitting in the temple near President Kimball. As I looked down, I noticed
that he had a large hole in his shoe. And I mean large! His stocking showed through.
After the meeting I said to Arthur Haycock, President Kimballs secretary, Arthur, you
cant let the President wear those shoes.
Arthur responded, Has he got that pair out again? He has many pairs of shoes, and I
frequently hide that pair, but he searches and finds that particular pair most of the
time.
President Kimball was known for his statement showing his humility: My life is like my
shoesto be worn out in service.11
President Kimball was totally, completely, unequivocally dedicated to the Lord. He was
dedicated to living the gospel.
One of President Kimballs favorite songs was I Need Thee Every Hour.12 Lets
remember that one particularly. That choice demonstrates his humility. Concerning his
favorite food, I watched him for all the years I was in the Twelve while he was living. He
would fill a glass with milk and take some date nut bread and crumble it into the glass
until it was thick. Then he would take a spoon and eat it! I did not follow his example.
What was a favorite quotation or a lesson from him? Lengthen your stride. We had to
lengthen our stride in order to keep up with him! I asked President Kimball what would
be a guiding principle from his life. And then I answered it: I believe it would be
dedication.
Spencer W. Kimball served as President of the Church for twelve years until his death on
November 5, 1985, at the age of 90.
Brother Hinckley and I served with President Kimball on the Missionary Executive
Committee, so we were with him every Tuesday morning assigning missionaries, and the
three of us had a very good camaraderie together.
One day he said to Brother Hinckley and me, Is this the night where the parents are
coming to visit with the mission presidents who are here for conference and were to
have our offices ready for them?

Brother Hinckley and I said, Yes, it is, President.

Is your office ready, Tom?
I said, Yes, it is.
Is your office ready, Gordon?
Yes, it is.
Uh, will the two of you carry on with the meeting while I make my office ready?
He carried a thick stack of papers and would thumb through them constantly until they
were worn out on the edges, and he began to take care of cleaning up his office so it
would be ready for the parents and missionaries. He emptied the files, put them in the
closet, and then he moved everything off of his desk and moved it to his secretarys
desk. And then he picked up that big stack of papers he usually carried and threw it in
his refrigerator. It was the only place left, so he refrigerated his notes! And then he said,
Now Im ready!
You had to love him. You had to love Spencer W. Kimball. You just had to.
Ill introduce one little thought. He said to me one day, Tom, could you come in and help
me with a problem I have?
I said, Sure!
So I went into his office, and he had a man sitting there. (I hope hes not related to you.)
But Brother Kimball in a sweet way said, Brother Monson, this is Brother So-and-So, and
hes not happy with the assignment which we made for his son to go on a mission. Why
dont you tell Brother Monson why youre not happy with the call the apostles made.
He still didnt catch on. He said, Well, hes assigned to the New England mission. I dont
want him to go to the New England mission; I want him to go to the old England
mission.
And then Brother Kimball with a smile said, And which mission would you have him
assigned to of those in Great Britain?
Oh, any of em, any of em.
And Brother Kimball said, Now lets see. Theres Bristol, theres London, theres London
South, and he named them all. Now which one?
And the man said, Oh no, you go ahead.

No, since you, as the father, rather than Brother Monson and I as apostles, are making
your missionary sons assignment, you name it.
Id never seen a man told off so adroitly, yet he didnt recognize he was being told off.
He said, Well, that one you mentioned, Bristol. That sounds good. Send him to Bristol.
After he left, Brother Kimball said, Arent some parents unusual? He would not use a
word I might have used, but then he wasnt in the navy like I was! (That line is not in my
prepared message!)
Now I come to Ezra Taft Benson, thirteenth President of the Church. He was ordained and
set apart as President on November 10, 1985. I had the privilege of serving as his second
counselor during the years he was President.
President Benson was a generous leader. I was in his office one day when I was a
member of the Twelve, and we were chatting. I noticed that he had a beautiful handtooled riding saddle sitting on a display in his room. It had been given to him in honor of
his service as Secretary of Agriculture.
I said, My, Brother Benson, thats the most beautiful saddle Ive ever seen.
He replied, Do you want it? Why dont you take it? You like to ride horses.
I assured him that although I appreciated the gesture, I couldnt take the saddle.
President Benson was the only President of the Church to have received the honor of
Most Preferred Man at BYU when he was a student here. Well have a moment of
silence for that one. I think the female student body were the only ones allowed to vote.
Early in his apostolic years President Benson was called by President George Albert
Smith to leave home and family and fill a special mission to war-torn Europe. The
magnitude of his call was overwhelming. For ten and a half months President Benson
labored night and day, blessing the members of the Church in Europe who had suffered
through years of war, giving them nourishment for their bodies and everlasting hope for
their souls. From the chaos of war came Saintsscattered, battered, and very much in
need. To them came Ezra Taft Benson, with his superb organizational skills and with the
inspiration of Almighty God.
Through the inspired welfare program of the Church, hundreds of tons of lifesaving food
and clothing were transported across the vast Atlantic Ocean and, under the direction of
this gifted leader, distributed to the hungry, the cold, and the homeless.
What a personally satisfying and spiritually rewarding experience it was for me to serve
as one of President Bensons counselors in the First Presidency of the Church.

President Bensons favorite song was How Great Thou Art.13 His favorite food was
fresh raspberries, and we had them as often as possible at our temple luncheons when
he was President of the Church. His favorite quotation was from the Book of Mormon,
words spoken by the Lord. Its in the form of a question, and I pose it to you: What
manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am.14 That would apply
to every man and woman here today: Even as I am, said the Lord.
What is a guiding principle from President Benson? Id have to say it is love. The manner
in which he treated his sweet companion and, indeed, all with whom he came in contact
provides an example for all of us. Let us love one another.
Ezra Taft Benson served as President of the Church for eight and a half years until his
death on May 30, 1994, at the age of 94.
We come now to Howard W. Hunter, fourteenth President of the Church, who was
ordained and set apart on June 5, 1994, at the age of 86. It was my privilege once again
to serve as second counselor.
My most tender meeting with Howard W. Hunter took place on October 3, 1963, as I
entered the outer office of President David O. McKay, who had invited me to come and
visit with him that Thursday afternoonfor what purpose I knew not at that time. Howard
W. Hunter had been checking some matters with President McKays secretary. Brother
Hunter and I greeted each other and shook hands. I noted the tears in his eyes with yet a
smile on his lips and a catch in his voice. I did not understand why he was so emotional.
After visiting with President McKay, where he extended to me my call to the Twelve, I
understood. Howard W. Hunter had known why I was there that afternoon. He had been
where I was now going. He had felt the feelings I was soon to experience.
One of President Hunters hallmarks was that of courtesy. Whether in a moment of
pleasant conversation or in times of constant pain, he was ever courteous. On one
occasion a man who had been painting in President Hunters home said to me,
President Hunter is so remarkable. He graciously thanked me and my crew for painting
a room. He commented on the color match, the absence of brush or roller marks, and
repeated a hearty thank-you as he shook my hand when we finished our work and
departed his presence.
President Hunter loved all the hymns, but one of his favorites was Have I Done Any
Good in the World Today?15 One of his favorite foods was Alaskan crab.
Before I move on: One day I was with him and a member of the welfare committee, and
Brother Hunter had taken a long time setting people apartyou know, it was a division
of a stakeand we hadnt had anything to eat. And the man from the welfare committee
said, Could we go to this fish restaurant? They have Alaskan crab, and thats my
favorite.
Brother Hunter said, Fine choice, fine choice. Then he went right through a red light.
And he just smiled. Then he went through a second red light, and then he said, Oh, by
the way, Im color-blind. I have to see where the light is, then I know which color it is.

I said, Brother Hunter, would you like me to drive?

He said, Well, I think you and the welfare man might be a little happier if you did. So I
drove the rest of the way.
What would be one of his favorite quotations? He loved the scripture found in Proverbs,
chapter 27, verse 2: Let another man praise thee . . . and not thine own lips. Modesty,
modesty, modesty.
What would be a guiding principle from President Hunters life? I believe it would be his
ability always to look for the best in peoplesuch an important quality to emulate.
President Hunter died March 3, 1995, at the age of 87.
Finally, brothers and sisters, I come to Gordon B. Hinckley, fifteenth President of the
Church, ordained and set apart on March 12, 1995, at the age of 84.
Two years after he was ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in
1961, I joined him in that quorum, and we sat side by side for most of the next 44 years.
We had known each other for many years prior to our calls to the Twelve. He was a
choice and beloved friend, as well as a trusted and respected colleague.
President Hinckley is the President of the Church most of you will remember best, for he
was President during much of the time you were growing to young adulthood. He was a
kind man who taught and who lived tolerance, never disparaging another persons
beliefs.
President Hinckley was a wordsmith. I will repeat the word: wordsmith. He was well read
and a scholar, and he could put words and phrases together in such a way that it was a
pleasure to listen to his messages.
As many of you know, each Thursday morning the members of the First Presidency and
the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have a meeting in the Salt Lake Temple. We are
driven in carts underground from the Church Office Building parking lot to the temple.
During the cold winter months, President Hinckley always wore a coat and a hat during
the brief ride. As our cart passed under Main Street, President Hinckley knew when we
were within the confines of the temple, rather than under the street. Without a word he
would remove his hat and place it in his lap. He seemed to know instinctively when that
moment arrived. It was such a simple yet profound expression of reverence and respect
for the house of the Lord, and it made a deep impression on me.
All of you will recall that during the last few years of his life President Hinckley always
had a cane with him. He would walk to his seat in the Conference Center while waving to
the crowd with his cane or using it to tap someone on the shoulder. President Hinckley
and I for years went to the same doctor, and during one of my visits a few years ago, the
doctor said to me, Could you please do me a favor? President Hinckley should use his
cane for walking because it steadies him. The last thing we want is for him to fall and

break a hip, or worse. Instead, he waves it around and doesnt use it when he walks. Tell
him the cane has been prescribed by his doctor, and he needs to use it as it was meant
to be used.
I listened to the physicians request and then replied, Doctor, I am President Hinckleys
counselor. You are his doctor. You tell him!
One of President Hinckleys favorite hymns has words written by Rudyard Kiplingthats
the British in him. The hymn is God of Our Fathers, Known of Old.16 One of his favorite
desserts was pie and ice cream. He loved the Prophet Joseph Smith; he loved the Savior.
A favorite quotation was taken from the words of the Prophet Joseph concerning the
Savior:
And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the
testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record
that he is the Only Begotten of the Father.17
What would be a guiding principle from President Hinckleys life? It is one which we
would all do well to follow: Do your best.
Gordon B. Hinckley served as President of the Church for nearly thirteen years until his
death on January 27, 2008, at the age of 97.
What can we learn from the prophets whom I have known and about whom I have visited
with you today? We can learn that they never wavered, never faltered, never failed; that
they are men of God.
May we be persistent in those things which are good and noble. May we ever stay safely
on the Lords side of the line. May we be considerate, studious, and responsive to the
whisperings of the Holy Spirit. May we be dedicated to the gospel of Jesus Christ. May we
love one another and always look for the best in people. May we do our best in all that
we do.
God bless you, my dear young friends. Remember that there is another whom you can
followeven the Lord Jesus Christ. He said, Come, follow me. Let us follow Him. He has
sent Presidents of the Church, whom we can have as guides and whom we can follow. He
Himself extended that kind, generous, personal invitation when He said, Behold, I stand
at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to
him.18
As the sixteenth President of the Church, my story is yet to be summarized by those who
will follow. In the meantime, I pledge my life, my strengthall that I have to offerin
serving the Lord and in directing the affairs of His Church in accordance with His will and
by His inspiration.

I invoke His blessings upon you. I bless you that you may follow the teachings of
prophets, that your lives may thereby be enriched. I bless you that you may have joy in
your hearts, that you will have peace within your souls, that you will have contentment
in seeing the influence for good that each one of you has upon the lives of others, and I
do so in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Nov 01, 2011

Be a Light to the World

Thomas S. Monson

What a glorious sight you are! Its an honor, my young friends, to be here with you. I feel
the tremendous weight of the responsibility which is mine to provide you with a message
which will hopefully be helpful to you not only for today but, indeed, throughout your
lives.
As I gaze at this vast audience, Im reminded that each of you is one of a kind. Each has
had experiences unique to you and you alone. You have come to Brigham Young
University from locations across the country and the world. You come from varied
backgrounds. And yet there is much that we have in common one with another. We know
where we came from, why we are here, and where we will go when we leave this life. We
know that we are children of our Heavenly Father and that He loves us. We know we
want to return to Him after we leave this earthly existence. We know that what we do
and dont dohere in mortality is of utmost importance. We also know that, should we
fall short, our Savior has provided us with the precious gift of the Atonement and that, if
we change our lives and our hearts and take advantage of the power of the Atonement,
our sins and shortcomings will be forgiven and forgotten.
We have in common the gospel of Jesus Christ. And we know it is our responsibility to
share the truths of the gospel with others. One of the chief ways in which we can share
the gospel is to be a righteous example, and it is about this that I wish to speak to you
today. The Apostle Paul admonished, Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in
conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.1 He also wrote that the followers of
Christ should be as lights in the world.2
This is what I would hope for each of usthat we might be a light to the world.
What is light? Websters dictionary lists no less than fifteen definitions for the noun light.
I prefer the simple something that illuminates. Just as turning on a light switch in a
dark room will bathe the room in light, so providing an example of righteousnessand
therefore being a lightcan help to illuminate an increasingly dark world.
Each of us came to earth having been given the Light of Christ. Said President Harold B.
Lee:

Every soul who walks the earth, wherever he lives, in whatever nation he may have been
born, no matter whether he be in riches or in poverty, had at birth an endowment of that
first light which is called the Light of Christ, the Spirit of Truth, or the Spirit of Godthat
universal light of intelligence with which every soul is blessed. Moroni spoke of [that
light,] that Spirit when he said:
For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil;
wherefore, I show unto you the way to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good,
and to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ;
wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of God. (Moroni 7:16.) 3
Unfortunately, for many that light with which all were endowed at birth has dimmedin
some cases almost to the point of being extinguishedas outside influences have come
to bear and the sometimes harsh realities of life have been experienced. Ours is the
responsibility to keep our lights aflame and burning brightly, that they might shine for
others to see and follow.
With the decline of religion in our society, many people have come to feel that they are
sufficient unto themselves and have no need of a higher power. Wrong. A loss of religious
faith implies a loss of faith in anyone greater than oneself.
In 2 Nephi we read these words, so pertinent today:
O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned
they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it
aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it
profiteth them not. And they shall perish.4
It can at times be easy to fall into the erroneous thinking that we ourselves are capable
of handling anything that comes our way, that we have all the answers, and that there is
no need for assistance from a higher power. When we realize, as one person put it, that
we are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a
human experience,5 we come to understand where our main emphasis should be and
on whom we are reliant.
In order for us to be examples of the believers, we ourselves must believe. I would think
that each of us within the sound of my voice has a testimony, although our testimonies
are no doubt of varying degrees. It is up to each of us to develop the faith necessary to
survive spiritually and to project a light for others to see. Amidst the confusion of our
age, the conflicts of conscience, and the turmoil of daily living, an abiding faith becomes
an anchor to our lives. Remember that faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at
the same time, for one will dispel the other. Among the most effective ways to gain and
keep the faith we need would be to read and study the scriptures and to pray frequently
and consistently.
Many years ago I was shown the flyleaf of a triple combination given to the late Maurine
Lee Wilkins by her father, President Harold B. Lee. He had inscribed it with these words:

April 9, 1944To my dear Maurine: That you may have a constant measure by which to
judge between truth and the errors of mans philosophies, and thus grow in spirituality
as you increase in knowledge, I give you this sacred book to read frequently and cherish
throughout your life. Lovingly, your father, Harold B. Lee
Wise words which can apply to each of us.
Brothers and sisters, have you read the Book of Mormon? Have you put to the test the
promise found in Moroni 10:4, asking your Heavenly Father with a sincere heart, with
real intent, having faith in Christ whether or not that which is found in that book is
truth?
May I share with you the experience of Brother Clayton M. Christensen as he sought to
know for himself. Brother Christensen has served in many positions of leadership in the
Church, including as an Area Seventy. He has received far too many academic awards for
me to mention here. He is currently the Robert and Jane Cizik Professor of Business
Administration at the Harvard Business School. He is also an alumnus of Brigham Young
University, and I believe his son Spencer and daughter Catherine are currently students
here.
When Brother Christensen finished his schooling at Brigham Young University, he
received a scholarship to go to Oxford University in England as a Rhodes Scholar. When
he arrived at Oxford, he realized that it would be somewhat challenging to be an active
member of the Church in Oxford. The Rhodes Scholarship Trust that had given him his
scholarship had a lot of activities for the recipients of the scholarship, and if he were
going to be active in the Church, it would be difficult for him to participate in those
activities. He intended to obtain in just two years a degree in applied econometricsa
program which took most students three years to complete. This, of course, added to his
lack of extra time. He realized, as he thought through how involved in the Church he
could be, that he didnt even know for certain if the Book of Mormon was true. He
realized that he had read the Book of Mormon seven times up to that point, and that
after each of those seven times he had knelt in prayer and had asked God to tell him if it
was true. He had received no answer. As he thought through why he hadnt received an
answer, he realized that each time he had read the Book of Mormon it was because of an
assignmenteither from his parents or a BYU instructor or his mission president or a
seminary teacherand his chief objective had been to finish the book. But now, as he
was about to commence his studies at Oxford, he realized that he desperately needed to
know if the Book of Mormon was true. He recognized as well that he had sustained
himself on a belief in many of the doctrines of the Church and in his parents because he
knew they knew it was true, and he trusted his parents. Here he was, however,
desperately needing to know for himself if it was true.
Oxford University is one of the worlds oldest universities. The building Brother
Christensen lived in was built in 1410 and was beautiful to look at but horrible to live in.
The only heat which was provided was from a small heater inserted into a hole which
had been dug in the wall. He decided that he would commit every evening from 11 p.m.
to 12 midnight to reading the Book of Mormonthis time with the purpose of
determining if it was true. He wondered if he dared spend an entire hour each night,
because he was in a very demanding academic program and he just didnt know if he

could afford allocating such an amount of time to this effort. Nevertheless,

he did allocate the time, and he began at 11 p.m. by kneeling in prayer by the chair by
his little heater, and he prayed out loud. He told God how desperate he was to find out if
this was a true book, and he told Him that if He would reveal to him that it was true, then
he intended to dedicate his life to building this kingdom. And he told God that if it wasnt
true, he needed to know that for certain, too, because then he would dedicate his life to
finding out what was true. Then Brother Christensen would sit in the chair and read. He
began by reading the first page of the Book of Mormon, and when he got down to the
bottom of the page, he stopped, and he thought about what he had read on that page,
and he asked himself, Could this have been written by a charlatan who was trying to
deceive people, or was this really written by a prophet of God? And he asked himself
what did it mean for Clayton Christensen in his life? And then he put the book down and
knelt in prayer and verbally asked God again, Please tell me if this is a true book. Then
he would sit in the chair and pick up the book and turn the page and read another page,
pause at the bottom, and do the same thing. He did this for an hour every nightnight
after nightin that cold, damp room at the Queens College in Oxford.
By the time Brother Christensen got to the chapters at the end of 2 Nephi, one evening
when he said his prayer and sat in his chair and opened the book, all of a sudden there
came into that room a beautiful, warm, loving spirit that just surrounded him and
permeated his soul and enveloped him in a feeling of love that he had not imagined he
could feel. He began to cry, and he didnt want to stop crying because as he looked
through his tears at the words in the Book of Mormon, he could see truth in those words
that he never imagined he could comprehend before. He could see the glories of eternity
and what God had in store for him as one of His sons. That spirit stayed with him for the
whole hour, and then every evening as he prayed and sat with the Book of Mormon by
the little heater in his room, that same spirit returned, and it changed his heart and his
life forever.
President Ezra Taft Benson, thirteenth president of the Church, said, When you choose
to follow Christ, you choose to be changed. . . . The world would shape human behavior,
but Christ can change human nature . . . , and changed men [and women] can change
the world.6
Brother Christensen has indicated that he loves to return to Oxford. Most of the people
there are either students or tourists who have come to look at a beautiful university. But
he loves to return there because its a sacred place to him, and he can look at the
windows of that room where he lived, and he recognizes it as the place where he learned
that Jesus is the Christ and that Joseph Smith was the prophet of the restoration for the
true church.
Brother Christensen has stated that he looks back at the conflict he experienced when
he wondered if he could afford to spend an hour every day apart from the study of
applied econometrics to find out if the Book of Mormon was true. He said, I use applied
econometrics maybe once a year, but I use my knowledge that the Book of Mormon is
the word of God many times every day of my life. In all of the education that I have
pursued, that is the single most useful piece of knowledge that I ever gained.7

Brothers and sisters, many of you probably came to Brigham Young University already
knowing that the Book of Mormon is true, that Joseph Smith is indeed a prophet, and that
this is the true Church of Jesus Christ. Some of you, however, may still be living on the
testimony of othersyour parents, your friends, your Church leaders. May I suggest that,
as Brother Christensen did, you set aside time every day to find out for yourself if the
Book of Mormon is a true book, for it will change your heart and change your life. If you
seek this knowledge with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ,8 I
promise that you will receive an answer. And once you know that the Book of Mormon is
true, then it will follow that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. You will have that
burning testimony and knowledge that this church is true.
Such knowledge, such a personal testimony, is essential if we are to safely navigate the
sometimes treacherous paths through life with the adversary attempting to deceive us at
every turn. As you keep the flame of testimony burning brightly, you will become a
beacon of righteousnesseven a lightfor all to see. Said the Savior: Let your light so
shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in
heaven.9
I share with you an example of two individuals who let their lights shine and whose good
works were recognized and appreciated. Several years ago I received a letter from a lady
whom I did not know but who chose me, for whatever reason, to write to concerning the
example of two members of the Church who had had an influence for good in her life.
Her letter began, Dear President Monson, and then she wrote:
I would like to commend two of your church members for their extraordinary compassion
and faith. I am a practicing Catholic and grew up in Salt Lake City. Oftentimes, as a
youth, I remember feeling ostracized by the other children who lived on our block
because I was not a member of the LDS Church. I must admit that this impression has
stuck with me for many years, until my encounter with Rick and Dan McIntosh. Last year
my sisters husband, Tom Brown, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor and was
given one year to live. He passed away last week. Of course neither my sister nor her
husband are members of your church. For the past year, Rick, who is the bishop of the
ward close to my sister, and Dan have spent countless hours with my sister and her
family. They have prayed numerous times for Tom, and their wives have brought food to
the house. They shoveled the walks in the winter. And each time they have come they
have asked my sister if there was anything she needed or that they could do. And they
meant it. It was not important to them that my family was not LDS. Tom was their
neighbor and their friend, and they were there to do whatever they could to help. These
two men truly live their faith, and I felt deeply moved by their compassion and example.
From one who used to indulge in Mormon bashing, I am writing this letter to tell you that
through the example of these two men, not only will I never again criticize the LDS faith,
but I will not allow it to be criticized in front of me. Your church has my deepest respect.
Our opportunities to shine are limitless. They surround us each day, in whatever
circumstance we find ourselves. As we follow the example of the Savior, ours will be the
opportunity to be a light, as it were, in the lives of those around uswhether they be our
own family members, our coworkers, mere acquaintances, or total strangers.

It has been my opportunity through the years to associate with countless individuals who
I would consider to be outstanding examples, even lights to the world. There is a special
spirit we feel around such people which makes us want to associate with them and to
follow their example. I would venture to guess that some of you in this audience are
members of the Church today or have become active in the Church because of such
examples. When we encounter them, they are a powerful influence, for they radiate the
love of the Savior and help us to feel His love for us.
In speaking of those who are unafraid to live lives of righteousness and example, I am
reminded of one of the missionaries who served in Eastern Canada when I was the
mission president there. He was a special young man by the name of Elder Roland
Davidson. He was dedicated and hardworking and obviously loved the gospel of Jesus
Christ. And then he became very ill. After weeks of hospitalization, as the surgeon
prepared to undertake extremely serious and complicated surgery, the surgeon asked
that we send for the missionarys parents. He indicated that there was a great likelihood
that Elder Davidson could not survive the surgery. His parents came. The evening before
the surgery, his father and I, in that hospital room in Toronto, Canada, placed our hands
upon the head of that young missionary and gave him a blessing. What happened the
following day provided for me a never-to-be-forgotten example of the influence of a true
believer.
Elder Davidson was in a six-bed ward in the hospital. The other beds were occupied by
five men with a variety of illnesses. On the morning of Elder Davidsons surgery, his bed
was empty. I learned later that the nurse came into the room with the breakfast these
husky men normally ate. She took a tray over to bed number one and said, Fried eggs
this morning, and I have an extra portion for you. Bed number one was occupied by a
man with his toe wrapped up in a bandage. He had suffered an accident with his
lawnmower. Other than his injured toe, he was well physically. He said to the nurse, Ill
not be eating this morning.
All right, said the nurse. Well give your breakfast to your partner in bed number two!
As she went over to bed number two, he said, No, thank you. I think Ill not eat this
morning.
She said, Thats two in a row. I dont understand you men, and there is no one this
morning in bed three. She glanced at the bed Roland Davidson had occupied, and then
she went on to bed four, bed five, and bed six. The answer was the same from each one:
No, this morning Im not hungry.
The young lady put her hands on her hips and said, Every other morning you eat us out
of house and home, and today not one of you wants to eat. Whats going on here?
And then the man who occupied bed number six came forth with the answer. He said,
You see, bed number three is empty. Our friend, Davidson, is in the operating room
under the surgeons hands. He needs all the help he can get. He is a missionary for his
church, and while he has been lying on that bed he has talked to us about the principles
of his churchprinciples of prayer, of faith, and of fasting wherein we call upon the Lord

for blessings. He continued, We have come to admire Davidson as a person of great

goodness and compassion and faith. Hes an example of what a follower of Christ should
be. He has touched our liveseach one of usand we are fasting for him today.
The operation performed on Roland Davidson was a success. In fact, when I attempted to
pay the surgeon, he refused any money, saying, It would be dishonest for me to accept
a fee. I have never before performed surgery when my hands seemed to be guided by a
power which was other than my own. No, he said, I wouldnt take a fee for the surgery
which Someone on high helped me to perform.
My friends, may we be, as the Apostle Paul admonished, an example of the believers, in
word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.10 May we always be known
as followers of Christ and, as such, become as lights in the world.11
I want you to know that I can feel your collective goodness here today. You are choice
sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven. Just think how much good can come to the
world from our collective lights as we allow the gospel to radiate through us.
Over the years I have enjoyed collecting gems of wisdom from movies and musicals. I
always have with me a pen and a piece of paper so that I can write down any quotes I
might find worthwhile. I have quite a collection. On one occasion some years ago I was
watching the animated movie The Lion King with a few of my grandchildren. I took many
notes, for I found lessons there. That which I desire to share with you is an exchange
which takes place between a grown-up Simba and the spirit of his departed father,
Mufasa, as Simba is doubting himself and his destiny. Says Mufasas spirit, Look inside
yourself, Simba. You are more than what you have become. . . . Remember who you
are. . . . Remember.
To all who are here today, I say, Look inside yourself. You are more than what you have
become. Remember who you are. You are a son or daughter of our Heavenly Father. You
have come from His presence to live on this earth for a season and to live in such a way
that you are an example of the believers and a true light to the world. When that season
has ended, you will be able to return to live with Him once again. May this be your
blessing as you nurture your testimony and as you follow the example set for you and for
all of us by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the true Light, which lighteth every man
[and woman] that cometh into the world.12 Of Him I testify: He is our Savior and our
Redeemer, our Advocate with the Father. He is our Exemplar and our strength. He is the
light that shineth in darkness. That each of us here today may pledge to follow Him and
to be His lights among men and women is my prayer. In His holy nameeven Jesus
Christ the Lordamen.
Thomas S. Monson was president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when
this devotional address was given on 1 November 2011.