WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:10.630 align:middle line:90% 00:00:10.630 --> 00:00:14.210 align:middle line:84% From the Conference Center at Temple Square in Salt Lake 00:00:14.210 --> 00:00:17.910 align:middle line:84% City, we bring you the general priesthood session 00:00:17.910 --> 00:00:21.920 align:middle line:84% of the 188th Annual General Conference 00:00:21.920 --> 00:00:25.810 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:00:25.810 --> 00:00:28.240 align:middle line:84% Music for this session is provided 00:00:28.240 --> 00:00:31.259 align:middle line:84% by a priesthood choir from Brigham Young University-Idaho. 00:00:31.259 --> 00:00:35.700 align:middle line:90% 00:00:35.700 --> 00:00:38.960 align:middle line:84% President Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor 00:00:38.960 --> 00:00:41.120 align:middle line:84% in the First Presidency of the Church, 00:00:41.120 --> 00:00:42.700 align:middle line:90% will conduct this session. 00:00:42.700 --> 00:01:13.020 align:middle line:90% 00:01:13.020 --> 00:01:16.870 align:middle line:84% Brethren, we welcome you to the priesthood session 00:01:16.870 --> 00:01:20.900 align:middle line:84% of the 188th Annual General Conference 00:01:20.900 --> 00:01:25.400 align:middle line:84% of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:01:25.400 --> 00:01:30.590 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson, who presides at the conference, 00:01:30.590 --> 00:01:33.880 align:middle line:84% has asked me to conduct this session. 00:01:33.880 --> 00:01:38.460 align:middle line:84% These services are being relayed by satellite transmission 00:01:38.460 --> 00:01:43.680 align:middle line:84% to priesthood holders in many locations throughout the world. 00:01:43.680 --> 00:01:45.430 align:middle line:84% The music for this session will be 00:01:45.430 --> 00:01:49.450 align:middle line:84% provided by a priesthood choir from Brigham Young 00:01:49.450 --> 00:01:54.000 align:middle line:84% University-Idaho under the direction of Randall Kempton, 00:01:54.000 --> 00:01:58.460 align:middle line:84% Paul Busselberg, and David Lozano-Torres, 00:01:58.460 --> 00:02:02.940 align:middle line:84% with Brian Mathias and Andrew Unsworth at the organ. 00:02:02.940 --> 00:02:06.260 align:middle line:84% The choir will open this meeting by singing 00:02:06.260 --> 00:02:08.970 align:middle line:90% "How Firm a Foundation." 00:02:08.970 --> 00:02:12.660 align:middle line:84% The invocation will then be offered by Brother M. Joseph 00:02:12.660 --> 00:02:17.760 align:middle line:84% Brough, Second Counselor in the Young Men General Presidency, 00:02:17.760 --> 00:02:21.720 align:middle line:84% after which the choir will sing "Father in Heaven." 00:02:21.720 --> 00:02:29.870 align:middle line:90% 00:02:29.870 --> 00:06:39.462 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING--"HOW FIRM A FOUNDATION"] 00:06:39.462 --> 00:06:46.224 align:middle line:90% 00:06:46.224 --> 00:06:49.620 align:middle line:84% Our loving and righteous Heavenly Father, 00:06:49.620 --> 00:06:55.240 align:middle line:84% we gather the body of Thy priesthood to give Thee thanks. 00:06:55.240 --> 00:06:59.510 align:middle line:84% We thank Thee most of all for sending Thy Son, 00:06:59.510 --> 00:07:02.940 align:middle line:84% and the plan that allows us to return to Thee. 00:07:02.940 --> 00:07:07.090 align:middle line:84% We are grateful to be holders of Thy priesthood. 00:07:07.090 --> 00:07:10.870 align:middle line:84% We are grateful to be of service to Thee. 00:07:10.870 --> 00:07:16.820 align:middle line:84% We're grateful to have a prophet, President Nelson, 00:07:16.820 --> 00:07:20.370 align:middle line:84% and a First Presidency and a Quorum of the Twelve, 00:07:20.370 --> 00:07:24.020 align:middle line:84% and the mantle that's upon them to be prophets, seers, 00:07:24.020 --> 00:07:25.360 align:middle line:90% and revelators. 00:07:25.360 --> 00:07:29.450 align:middle line:84% We pray, Father, that Thy Spirit will be with us this day, 00:07:29.450 --> 00:07:35.260 align:middle line:84% that we'll have ears to hear and hearts that will be prepared 00:07:35.260 --> 00:07:39.120 align:middle line:84% to receive, that we may be about Thy work 00:07:39.120 --> 00:07:43.160 align:middle line:84% and receive instruction with a desire to change. 00:07:43.160 --> 00:07:48.360 align:middle line:84% We ask Thee, Father, also, to bless our wonderful other half 00:07:48.360 --> 00:07:49.950 align:middle line:90% that's not with us. 00:07:49.950 --> 00:07:53.170 align:middle line:84% Bless our sisters, our mothers, our grandmothers, 00:07:53.170 --> 00:07:56.810 align:middle line:84% our daughters, and bless our wonderful missionaries 00:07:56.810 --> 00:07:58.240 align:middle line:90% throughout the world. 00:07:58.240 --> 00:08:02.570 align:middle line:84% Again, we pray that Thy Holy Spirit will guide our hearts, 00:08:02.570 --> 00:08:05.890 align:middle line:84% and this we do in the name of Thy Son, Jesus Christ, amen. 00:08:05.890 --> 00:08:17.367 align:middle line:90% 00:08:17.367 --> 00:13:12.631 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING--"FATHER IN HEAVEN"] 00:13:12.631 --> 00:13:22.942 align:middle line:90% 00:13:22.942 --> 00:13:27.400 align:middle line:84% We will now be pleased to hear from Brother Douglas D. 00:13:27.400 --> 00:13:32.940 align:middle line:84% Holmes, First Counselor in the Young Men General Presidency. 00:13:32.940 --> 00:13:38.290 align:middle line:84% He will be followed briefly by our prophet, President Russell 00:13:38.290 --> 00:13:39.610 align:middle line:90% M. Nelson. 00:13:39.610 --> 00:13:43.590 align:middle line:84% We will then hear from Elders D. Todd Christofferson 00:13:43.590 --> 00:13:48.925 align:middle line:84% and Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 00:13:48.925 --> 00:13:58.800 align:middle line:90% 00:13:58.800 --> 00:14:02.070 align:middle line:84% Brethren, it is a privilege to be with you 00:14:02.070 --> 00:14:04.350 align:middle line:90% in this historic conference. 00:14:04.350 --> 00:14:06.490 align:middle line:84% When I was a new mission president, 00:14:06.490 --> 00:14:08.730 align:middle line:84% I was excited to receive our first group 00:14:08.730 --> 00:14:09.590 align:middle line:90% of new missionaries. 00:14:09.590 --> 00:14:12.540 align:middle line:84% A few of our more experienced missionaries 00:14:12.540 --> 00:14:14.940 align:middle line:84% were preparing for a brief meeting with them. 00:14:14.940 --> 00:14:17.860 align:middle line:84% I noticed that they had arranged children's chairs 00:14:17.860 --> 00:14:20.512 align:middle line:90% in a semicircle. 00:14:20.512 --> 00:14:21.970 align:middle line:84% "What's up with the little chairs?" 00:14:21.970 --> 00:14:23.527 align:middle line:90% I asked. 00:14:23.527 --> 00:14:25.110 align:middle line:84% The missionaries, somewhat sheepishly, 00:14:25.110 --> 00:14:28.600 align:middle line:84% said, "For the new missionaries." 00:14:28.600 --> 00:14:31.880 align:middle line:84% I believe the way we see others significantly 00:14:31.880 --> 00:14:34.930 align:middle line:84% impacts their perception of who they are 00:14:34.930 --> 00:14:36.810 align:middle line:90% and what they can become. 00:14:36.810 --> 00:14:41.620 align:middle line:84% Our new missionaries sat on adult chairs that day. 00:14:41.620 --> 00:14:44.160 align:middle line:84% Sometimes, I fear, we figuratively 00:14:44.160 --> 00:14:47.060 align:middle line:84% give our young men of the Aaronic Priesthood children's 00:14:47.060 --> 00:14:49.820 align:middle line:84% chairs to sit on rather than helping 00:14:49.820 --> 00:14:55.180 align:middle line:84% them see that God has given them a sacred trust and a vital work 00:14:55.180 --> 00:14:56.870 align:middle line:90% to do. 00:14:56.870 --> 00:15:00.430 align:middle line:84% President Thomas S. Monson counseled us that young men 00:15:00.430 --> 00:15:02.770 align:middle line:84% need to understand "what it means ... 00:15:02.770 --> 00:15:05.310 align:middle line:84% to be bearers of the priesthood of God. 00:15:05.310 --> 00:15:08.500 align:middle line:84% They need to be guided to a spiritual awareness 00:15:08.500 --> 00:15:12.560 align:middle line:84% of the sacredness of their ordained calling." 00:15:12.560 --> 00:15:16.270 align:middle line:84% Today I pray the Holy Ghost will guide us 00:15:16.270 --> 00:15:19.000 align:middle line:84% to a greater understanding of the power 00:15:19.000 --> 00:15:21.940 align:middle line:84% and sacredness of the Aaronic Priesthood 00:15:21.940 --> 00:15:25.330 align:middle line:84% and inspire us to focus more diligently 00:15:25.330 --> 00:15:27.260 align:middle line:90% on our priesthood duties. 00:15:27.260 --> 00:15:30.990 align:middle line:84% My message is for all Aaronic Priesthood holders, 00:15:30.990 --> 00:15:36.910 align:middle line:84% including those who also hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. 00:15:36.910 --> 00:15:39.130 align:middle line:84% Elder Dale G. Renlund taught that the purpose 00:15:39.130 --> 00:15:42.060 align:middle line:84% of the priesthood is to provide God's children 00:15:42.060 --> 00:15:45.640 align:middle line:84% access to the atoning power of Jesus Christ. 00:15:45.640 --> 00:15:48.980 align:middle line:84% To receive Christ's atoning power in our lives, 00:15:48.980 --> 00:15:53.000 align:middle line:84% we must believe in Him, repent of our sins, 00:15:53.000 --> 00:15:56.610 align:middle line:84% make and keep sacred covenants through ordinances, 00:15:56.610 --> 00:15:58.760 align:middle line:90% and receive the Holy Ghost. 00:15:58.760 --> 00:16:02.390 align:middle line:84% These are not principles we engage in just once; 00:16:02.390 --> 00:16:05.960 align:middle line:84% rather, they work together, reinforcing and building 00:16:05.960 --> 00:16:10.900 align:middle line:84% on each other in a continuing process of upward progression 00:16:10.900 --> 00:16:15.620 align:middle line:84% to "come unto Christ, and be perfected in him." 00:16:15.620 --> 00:16:18.370 align:middle line:84% So what is the role of the Aaronic Priesthood in this? 00:16:18.370 --> 00:16:22.620 align:middle line:84% How does it help us gain access to Christ's atoning power? 00:16:22.620 --> 00:16:26.470 align:middle line:84% I believe the answer lies in the keys of the Aaronic 00:16:26.470 --> 00:16:30.220 align:middle line:84% Priesthood--the keys of the ministering of angels 00:16:30.220 --> 00:16:34.130 align:middle line:90% and of the preparatory gospel. 00:16:34.130 --> 00:16:37.440 align:middle line:84% Let's begin with one aspect of the ministering of angels. 00:16:37.440 --> 00:16:42.060 align:middle line:84% Before God's children can have faith in Jesus Christ, 00:16:42.060 --> 00:16:45.860 align:middle line:84% they need to know Him and be taught His gospel. 00:16:45.860 --> 00:16:48.700 align:middle line:90% As the Apostle Paul said: 00:16:48.700 --> 00:16:52.150 align:middle line:84% "How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? 00:16:52.150 --> 00:16:54.670 align:middle line:84% and how shall they hear without a preacher? 00:16:54.670 --> 00:16:57.540 align:middle line:84% "And how shall they preach, except they be sent? ... 00:16:57.540 --> 00:17:02.290 align:middle line:84% "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing 00:17:02.290 --> 00:17:04.839 align:middle line:90% by the word of God." 00:17:04.839 --> 00:17:08.920 align:middle line:84% From the beginning of time, God has "sent angels to minister 00:17:08.920 --> 00:17:11.970 align:middle line:84% unto the children of men, to make manifest ... 00:17:11.970 --> 00:17:13.849 align:middle line:90% the coming of Christ." 00:17:13.849 --> 00:17:18.609 align:middle line:84% Angels are heavenly beings bearing God's message. 00:17:18.609 --> 00:17:22.480 align:middle line:84% In both Hebrew and Greek, the root word of angel 00:17:22.480 --> 00:17:24.760 align:middle line:90% is "messenger." 00:17:24.760 --> 00:17:29.030 align:middle line:84% In much the same way that angels are authorized messengers 00:17:29.030 --> 00:17:32.920 align:middle line:84% sent by God to declare His word and thereby 00:17:32.920 --> 00:17:36.650 align:middle line:84% build faith, we who hold the Aaronic Priesthood have 00:17:36.650 --> 00:17:39.380 align:middle line:84% been ordained to "teach, and invite 00:17:39.380 --> 00:17:41.310 align:middle line:90% all to come unto Christ." 00:17:41.310 --> 00:17:43.990 align:middle line:84% To preach the gospel is a priesthood duty. 00:17:43.990 --> 00:17:46.620 align:middle line:84% And the power associated with this duty 00:17:46.620 --> 00:17:50.260 align:middle line:84% is not just for prophets or even just for missionaries. 00:17:50.260 --> 00:17:52.580 align:middle line:90% It is for you! 00:17:52.580 --> 00:17:54.690 align:middle line:90% So how do we get this power? 00:17:54.690 --> 00:17:58.090 align:middle line:84% How does a 12-year-old deacon--or any of us--bring 00:17:58.090 --> 00:18:02.610 align:middle line:84% faith in Christ to the hearts of God's children? 00:18:02.610 --> 00:18:09.390 align:middle line:84% We start by treasuring up His word so its power is within us. 00:18:09.390 --> 00:18:14.410 align:middle line:84% He has promised that if we do, we will have "the power of God 00:18:14.410 --> 00:18:16.660 align:middle line:90% unto the convincing of men." 00:18:16.660 --> 00:18:19.740 align:middle line:84% It may be an opportunity to teach in a quorum meeting 00:18:19.740 --> 00:18:21.640 align:middle line:90% or visit the home of a member. 00:18:21.640 --> 00:18:24.660 align:middle line:84% It may be something less formal, like a conversation 00:18:24.660 --> 00:18:26.890 align:middle line:84% with a friend or a family member. 00:18:26.890 --> 00:18:30.830 align:middle line:84% In any of these settings, if we have prepared, 00:18:30.830 --> 00:18:33.820 align:middle line:84% we can teach the gospel the way angels do: 00:18:33.820 --> 00:18:37.430 align:middle line:90% by the power of the Holy Ghost. 00:18:37.430 --> 00:18:40.130 align:middle line:84% I recently heard Jacob, an Aaronic Priesthood 00:18:40.130 --> 00:18:42.780 align:middle line:84% holder in Papua New Guinea, testify 00:18:42.780 --> 00:18:45.100 align:middle line:84% of the power of the Book of Mormon 00:18:45.100 --> 00:18:49.900 align:middle line:84% and how it has helped him resist evil and follow the Spirit. 00:18:49.900 --> 00:18:53.860 align:middle line:84% His words increased my faith and the faith of others. 00:18:53.860 --> 00:18:55.880 align:middle line:84% My faith has also grown as I have 00:18:55.880 --> 00:18:58.850 align:middle line:84% heard Aaronic Priesthood holders teach and testify 00:18:58.850 --> 00:19:01.730 align:middle line:90% in their quorum meetings. 00:19:01.730 --> 00:19:05.920 align:middle line:84% Young men, you are authorized messengers. 00:19:05.920 --> 00:19:10.370 align:middle line:84% Through your words and actions, you can bring faith in Christ 00:19:10.370 --> 00:19:12.420 align:middle line:90% to the hearts of God's children. 00:19:12.420 --> 00:19:16.020 align:middle line:84% As President Russell M. Nelson said, "To them 00:19:16.020 --> 00:19:20.530 align:middle line:84% you will be as a ministering angel." 00:19:20.530 --> 00:19:23.970 align:middle line:84% Increased faith in Christ always leads to a desire 00:19:23.970 --> 00:19:25.830 align:middle line:90% to change or repent. 00:19:25.830 --> 00:19:29.000 align:middle line:84% So it is logical that the key of the ministering of angels 00:19:29.000 --> 00:19:32.450 align:middle line:84% would be accompanied by the key of the preparatory gospel, 00:19:32.450 --> 00:19:35.420 align:middle line:84% "the gospel of repentance and of baptism, 00:19:35.420 --> 00:19:37.950 align:middle line:90% and the remission of sins." 00:19:37.950 --> 00:19:40.580 align:middle line:84% As you study your Aaronic Priesthood duties, 00:19:40.580 --> 00:19:43.280 align:middle line:84% you will see a clear charge to invite 00:19:43.280 --> 00:19:46.180 align:middle line:90% others to repent and improve. 00:19:46.180 --> 00:19:48.940 align:middle line:84% That does not mean we stand on street corners 00:19:48.940 --> 00:19:50.530 align:middle line:90% shouting, "Repent ye!" 00:19:50.530 --> 00:19:56.210 align:middle line:84% More often, it means that we repent, we forgive, 00:19:56.210 --> 00:20:01.550 align:middle line:84% and as we minister to others, we offer the hope that repentance 00:20:01.550 --> 00:20:06.919 align:middle line:84% brings--because we have experienced it ourselves. 00:20:06.919 --> 00:20:08.710 align:middle line:84% I have been with Aaronic Priesthood holders 00:20:08.710 --> 00:20:10.860 align:middle line:84% as they visited fellow quorum members. 00:20:10.860 --> 00:20:14.280 align:middle line:84% I have witnessed their care soften hearts and help 00:20:14.280 --> 00:20:16.720 align:middle line:90% their brothers feel God's love. 00:20:16.720 --> 00:20:19.340 align:middle line:84% I heard one young man bear testimony 00:20:19.340 --> 00:20:22.880 align:middle line:84% to his peers of the power of repentance. 00:20:22.880 --> 00:20:27.320 align:middle line:84% As he did, hearts were softened, commitments were made, 00:20:27.320 --> 00:20:31.550 align:middle line:84% and the healing power of Christ was felt. 00:20:31.550 --> 00:20:33.230 align:middle line:84% President Gordon B. Hinckley taught: 00:20:33.230 --> 00:20:35.590 align:middle line:90% "It is one thing to repent. 00:20:35.590 --> 00:20:40.360 align:middle line:84% It is another to have our sins remitted or forgiven. 00:20:40.360 --> 00:20:44.190 align:middle line:84% The power to bring this about is found 00:20:44.190 --> 00:20:47.600 align:middle line:90% in the Aaronic Priesthood." 00:20:47.600 --> 00:20:49.400 align:middle line:84% The Aaronic Priesthood ordinances 00:20:49.400 --> 00:20:53.050 align:middle line:84% of baptism and the sacrament witness 00:20:53.050 --> 00:20:58.380 align:middle line:84% and complete our repentance for a remission of sins. 00:20:58.380 --> 00:21:01.320 align:middle line:84% President Dallin H. Oaks explained it this way: 00:21:01.320 --> 00:21:03.850 align:middle line:84% "We are commanded to repent of our sins and ... 00:21:03.850 --> 00:21:06.880 align:middle line:84% come to the Lord with a broken heart and a contrite spirit 00:21:06.880 --> 00:21:08.780 align:middle line:84% and partake of the sacrament. ... 00:21:08.780 --> 00:21:11.990 align:middle line:84% When we renew our baptismal covenants in this way, 00:21:11.990 --> 00:21:17.680 align:middle line:84% the Lord renews the cleansing effect of our baptism." 00:21:17.680 --> 00:21:20.890 align:middle line:84% Brethren, it is a sacred and holy privilege 00:21:20.890 --> 00:21:25.280 align:middle line:84% to administer ordinances that bring a remission of sins 00:21:25.280 --> 00:21:28.010 align:middle line:90% to repentant hearts. 00:21:28.010 --> 00:21:29.700 align:middle line:84% I was recently told of a priest who 00:21:29.700 --> 00:21:32.360 align:middle line:84% struggles to express himself blessing the sacrament 00:21:32.360 --> 00:21:33.670 align:middle line:90% for the first time. 00:21:33.670 --> 00:21:36.320 align:middle line:84% As he did, a powerful spirit came 00:21:36.320 --> 00:21:38.860 align:middle line:90% over him and the congregation. 00:21:38.860 --> 00:21:42.610 align:middle line:84% Later in the meeting he bore a simple but clear testimony 00:21:42.610 --> 00:21:46.910 align:middle line:84% of the power of God that he felt during that ordinance. 00:21:46.910 --> 00:21:50.130 align:middle line:84% In Sydney, Australia, four members of a priests quorum 00:21:50.130 --> 00:21:52.810 align:middle line:84% baptized members of the Mbuelongo family. 00:21:52.810 --> 00:21:54.570 align:middle line:84% The mother of one of these priests 00:21:54.570 --> 00:21:57.380 align:middle line:84% related to me how this experience powerfully 00:21:57.380 --> 00:21:59.120 align:middle line:90% impacted her son. 00:21:59.120 --> 00:22:01.560 align:middle line:84% These priests came to understand what 00:22:01.560 --> 00:22:06.660 align:middle line:84% it means to be "commissioned of Jesus Christ." 00:22:06.660 --> 00:22:08.930 align:middle line:84% As you know, priests can now officiate 00:22:08.930 --> 00:22:11.950 align:middle line:84% in performing proxy baptisms in the temple. 00:22:11.950 --> 00:22:15.350 align:middle line:84% My 17-year-old son recently baptized me 00:22:15.350 --> 00:22:17.240 align:middle line:90% for some of our ancestors. 00:22:17.240 --> 00:22:21.380 align:middle line:84% We both felt deep gratitude for the Aaronic Priesthood 00:22:21.380 --> 00:22:25.580 align:middle line:84% and the privilege of acting for the salvation of God's 00:22:25.580 --> 00:22:28.010 align:middle line:90% children. 00:22:28.010 --> 00:22:30.510 align:middle line:84% Young men, as you diligently engage 00:22:30.510 --> 00:22:34.250 align:middle line:84% in your priesthood duties, you participate with God 00:22:34.250 --> 00:22:38.940 align:middle line:84% in His work "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal 00:22:38.940 --> 00:22:40.100 align:middle line:90% life of man." 00:22:40.100 --> 00:22:44.730 align:middle line:84% Experiences like these increase your desire 00:22:44.730 --> 00:22:49.420 align:middle line:84% and prepare you to teach repentance and baptize converts 00:22:49.420 --> 00:22:50.530 align:middle line:90% as missionaries. 00:22:50.530 --> 00:22:53.080 align:middle line:84% They also prepare you for lifelong service 00:22:53.080 --> 00:22:55.490 align:middle line:90% in the Melchizedek Priesthood. 00:22:55.490 --> 00:22:59.000 align:middle line:84% Aaronic Priesthood holders, we have the privilege and duty 00:22:59.000 --> 00:23:02.310 align:middle line:84% to be fellow servants with John the Baptist. 00:23:02.310 --> 00:23:05.600 align:middle line:84% John was sent as an authorized messenger to bear witness 00:23:05.600 --> 00:23:10.050 align:middle line:84% of Christ and invite all to repent and be baptized--that 00:23:10.050 --> 00:23:13.700 align:middle line:84% is, he exercised the Aaronic Priesthood keys we have 00:23:13.700 --> 00:23:14.710 align:middle line:90% discussed. 00:23:14.710 --> 00:23:20.020 align:middle line:84% John then declared, "I indeed baptize you with water unto 00:23:20.020 --> 00:23:24.130 align:middle line:84% repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I ... 00:23:24.130 --> 00:23:30.440 align:middle line:84% : he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire." 00:23:30.440 --> 00:23:33.740 align:middle line:84% Thus, the Aaronic Priesthood, with the keys 00:23:33.740 --> 00:23:37.450 align:middle line:84% of the ministering of angels and the preparatory gospel, 00:23:37.450 --> 00:23:40.010 align:middle line:84% prepares the way for God's children 00:23:40.010 --> 00:23:43.370 align:middle line:84% to receive, through the Melchizedek Priesthood, 00:23:43.370 --> 00:23:47.760 align:middle line:84% the gift of the Holy Ghost, the greatest gift we 00:23:47.760 --> 00:23:50.810 align:middle line:90% can receive in this life. 00:23:50.810 --> 00:23:53.190 align:middle line:84% What a profound responsibility God 00:23:53.190 --> 00:23:56.880 align:middle line:84% has given to Aaronic Priesthood holders! 00:23:56.880 --> 00:24:00.640 align:middle line:84% Parents and priesthood leaders, can you sense the importance 00:24:00.640 --> 00:24:04.540 align:middle line:84% of President Monson's counsel to help young men understand "what 00:24:04.540 --> 00:24:05.160 align:middle line:90% it means ... 00:24:05.160 --> 00:24:07.890 align:middle line:84% to be bearers of the priesthood of God"? 00:24:07.890 --> 00:24:12.280 align:middle line:84% Understanding and magnifying the Aaronic Priesthood 00:24:12.280 --> 00:24:14.800 align:middle line:84% will prepare them to be faithful Melchizedek Priesthood 00:24:14.800 --> 00:24:17.260 align:middle line:84% holders, power-filled missionaries, 00:24:17.260 --> 00:24:19.530 align:middle line:84% and righteous husbands and fathers. 00:24:19.530 --> 00:24:22.950 align:middle line:84% Through their service, they will understand and feel 00:24:22.950 --> 00:24:26.000 align:middle line:84% the reality of priesthood power, the power 00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:28.840 align:middle line:84% to act in the name of Christ for the salvation 00:24:28.840 --> 00:24:31.200 align:middle line:90% of God's children. 00:24:31.200 --> 00:24:34.800 align:middle line:84% Young men, God has a work for you to do. 00:24:34.800 --> 00:24:37.010 align:middle line:84% Your Aaronic Priesthood ordination 00:24:37.010 --> 00:24:39.570 align:middle line:84% is central to helping His children receive 00:24:39.570 --> 00:24:41.170 align:middle line:90% Christ's atoning power. 00:24:41.170 --> 00:24:44.930 align:middle line:84% I promise, as you put these sacred duties 00:24:44.930 --> 00:24:48.230 align:middle line:84% at the center of your life, you will feel the power of God 00:24:48.230 --> 00:24:49.550 align:middle line:90% as never before. 00:24:49.550 --> 00:24:51.600 align:middle line:84% You will understand your identity 00:24:51.600 --> 00:24:57.390 align:middle line:84% as a son of God, called with a holy calling to do His work. 00:24:57.390 --> 00:25:01.550 align:middle line:84% And, like John the Baptist, you will help prepare the way 00:25:01.550 --> 00:25:03.940 align:middle line:90% for the coming of His Son. 00:25:03.940 --> 00:25:07.590 align:middle line:84% Of these truths I bear witness in the name 00:25:07.590 --> 00:25:09.150 align:middle line:90% of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:25:09.150 --> 00:25:17.570 align:middle line:90% 00:25:17.570 --> 00:25:21.440 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Brother Holmes, for your important message. 00:25:21.440 --> 00:25:26.910 align:middle line:84% Dear brethren, we deeply miss President Thomas S. Monson 00:25:26.910 --> 00:25:29.640 align:middle line:90% and Elder Robert D. Hales. 00:25:29.640 --> 00:25:34.220 align:middle line:84% Yet we all press on in the work of the Lord. 00:25:34.220 --> 00:25:37.950 align:middle line:84% I am very grateful for each man who bears the holy priesthood. 00:25:37.950 --> 00:25:40.370 align:middle line:84% You are the hope of our Redeemer, who 00:25:40.370 --> 00:25:45.220 align:middle line:84% desires "that every man might speak in the name of God 00:25:45.220 --> 00:25:47.660 align:middle line:84% the Lord, even the Savior of the world." 00:25:47.660 --> 00:25:53.820 align:middle line:84% He wants all of His ordained sons to represent Him, 00:25:53.820 --> 00:25:57.530 align:middle line:84% to speak for Him, to act for Him, 00:25:57.530 --> 00:26:00.050 align:middle line:84% and bless the lives of God's children 00:26:00.050 --> 00:26:03.970 align:middle line:84% throughout the world to the end that "faith also might 00:26:03.970 --> 00:26:08.730 align:middle line:90% increase in [all] the earth." 00:26:08.730 --> 00:26:10.620 align:middle line:84% Some of you serve where the Church has been 00:26:10.620 --> 00:26:12.990 align:middle line:90% established for generations. 00:26:12.990 --> 00:26:16.860 align:middle line:84% Others serve where the Church is relatively new. 00:26:16.860 --> 00:26:20.080 align:middle line:90% For some, your wards are large. 00:26:20.080 --> 00:26:25.680 align:middle line:84% For others, your branches are small and distances are great. 00:26:25.680 --> 00:26:29.440 align:middle line:84% Regardless of your individual circumstances, each of you 00:26:29.440 --> 00:26:34.710 align:middle line:84% is a member of a priesthood quorum with a divine mandate 00:26:34.710 --> 00:26:40.960 align:middle line:84% to learn and to teach, to love and to serve others. 00:26:40.960 --> 00:26:45.630 align:middle line:84% Tonight we announce a significant restructuring 00:26:45.630 --> 00:26:48.910 align:middle line:84% of our Melchizedek Priesthood quorums 00:26:48.910 --> 00:26:51.505 align:middle line:84% to accomplish the work of the Lord more effectively. 00:26:51.505 --> 00:26:55.590 align:middle line:90% 00:26:55.590 --> 00:27:00.620 align:middle line:84% In each ward, the high priests and the elders 00:27:00.620 --> 00:27:05.210 align:middle line:84% will now be combined into one elders quorum. 00:27:05.210 --> 00:27:08.580 align:middle line:90% 00:27:08.580 --> 00:27:11.750 align:middle line:84% This adjustment will greatly enhance the capacity 00:27:11.750 --> 00:27:16.800 align:middle line:84% and the ability of men who bear the priesthood to serve others. 00:27:16.800 --> 00:27:21.110 align:middle line:84% Prospective elders will be welcomed in and fellowshipped 00:27:21.110 --> 00:27:24.760 align:middle line:90% by that quorum. 00:27:24.760 --> 00:27:27.690 align:middle line:84% In each stake, the stake presidency 00:27:27.690 --> 00:27:31.660 align:middle line:84% will continue to preside over the stake high priests quorum. 00:27:31.660 --> 00:27:34.590 align:middle line:84% But the composition of that quorum 00:27:34.590 --> 00:27:39.190 align:middle line:84% will be based on current priesthood callings, 00:27:39.190 --> 00:27:43.250 align:middle line:90% as will be explained later. 00:27:43.250 --> 00:27:46.640 align:middle line:84% Elder D. Todd Christofferson and Elder Ronald A. Rasband 00:27:46.640 --> 00:27:48.230 align:middle line:84% of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 00:27:48.230 --> 00:27:52.840 align:middle line:84% will now teach us more about these important adjustments. 00:27:52.840 --> 00:27:56.860 align:middle line:84% These modifications have been under study for many months. 00:27:56.860 --> 00:28:00.050 align:middle line:84% We have felt a pressing need to improve 00:28:00.050 --> 00:28:03.480 align:middle line:84% the way we care for our members and report 00:28:03.480 --> 00:28:05.590 align:middle line:90% our contacts with them. 00:28:05.590 --> 00:28:08.260 align:middle line:84% To do that better, we need to strengthen 00:28:08.260 --> 00:28:11.260 align:middle line:84% our priesthood quorums to give greater direction 00:28:11.260 --> 00:28:13.880 align:middle line:84% to the ministering of love and support 00:28:13.880 --> 00:28:17.880 align:middle line:84% that the Lord intends for His Saints. 00:28:17.880 --> 00:28:20.790 align:middle line:84% These adjustments are inspired of the Lord. 00:28:20.790 --> 00:28:24.670 align:middle line:84% As we implement them, we will be even more effective than we 00:28:24.670 --> 00:28:27.180 align:middle line:90% have ever been previously. 00:28:27.180 --> 00:28:30.430 align:middle line:84% We are engaged in the work of Almighty God. 00:28:30.430 --> 00:28:32.350 align:middle line:90% Jesus is the Christ! 00:28:32.350 --> 00:28:34.190 align:middle line:90% We are His humble servants! 00:28:34.190 --> 00:28:39.260 align:middle line:84% God bless you, brethren, as we learn of and do our duty, 00:28:39.260 --> 00:28:42.220 align:middle line:84% I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:28:42.220 --> 00:28:53.270 align:middle line:90% 00:28:53.270 --> 00:28:55.990 align:middle line:84% Not long after the Church was organized 00:28:55.990 --> 00:29:01.260 align:middle line:84% in this last dispensation, the Lord stated in a revelation, 00:29:01.260 --> 00:29:05.170 align:middle line:84% "And by the prayer of your faith ye shall receive my law, 00:29:05.170 --> 00:29:08.220 align:middle line:84% that ye may know how to govern my church 00:29:08.220 --> 00:29:11.670 align:middle line:84% and have all things right before me." 00:29:11.670 --> 00:29:15.520 align:middle line:84% This principle has been followed in the Church--and that promise 00:29:15.520 --> 00:29:18.160 align:middle line:84% has been honored by the Lord--ever since. 00:29:18.160 --> 00:29:22.200 align:middle line:84% Patterns for priesthood organization and service 00:29:22.200 --> 00:29:24.610 align:middle line:84% have been revealed from time to time, 00:29:24.610 --> 00:29:26.640 align:middle line:84% beginning with the Prophet Joseph 00:29:26.640 --> 00:29:30.260 align:middle line:84% Smith, when priesthood offices and quorums were 00:29:30.260 --> 00:29:32.090 align:middle line:90% first established. 00:29:32.090 --> 00:29:36.300 align:middle line:84% Significant refinements were revealed and implemented 00:29:36.300 --> 00:29:39.030 align:middle line:84% during the tenure of Presidents Brigham 00:29:39.030 --> 00:29:44.610 align:middle line:84% Young, John Taylor, and Spencer W. Kimball, among others, 00:29:44.610 --> 00:29:49.030 align:middle line:84% with respect to the Quorum of the Twelve, the Seventy, 00:29:49.030 --> 00:29:54.280 align:middle line:84% high priests, and other offices and quorums in both 00:29:54.280 --> 00:29:57.240 align:middle line:84% the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods. 00:29:57.240 --> 00:30:01.430 align:middle line:84% Now, in a historic statement just moments ago, 00:30:01.430 --> 00:30:03.410 align:middle line:84% President Russell M. Nelson announced 00:30:03.410 --> 00:30:06.630 align:middle line:90% a further crucial adjustment. 00:30:06.630 --> 00:30:08.740 align:middle line:84% If I may repeat some of his statement, 00:30:08.740 --> 00:30:13.250 align:middle line:84% quoting: "Tonight we announce a significant restructuring 00:30:13.250 --> 00:30:15.780 align:middle line:84% of our Melchizedek Priesthood quorums 00:30:15.780 --> 00:30:19.960 align:middle line:84% to accomplish the work of the Lord more effectively. 00:30:19.960 --> 00:30:23.470 align:middle line:84% In each ward, the high priests and the elders will now be 00:30:23.470 --> 00:30:26.820 align:middle line:84% combined into one elders quorum ... 00:30:26.820 --> 00:30:30.010 align:middle line:84% [and] the composition of [the stake high priests] quorum 00:30:30.010 --> 00:30:34.190 align:middle line:84% will be based on current priesthood callings." 00:30:34.190 --> 00:30:36.200 align:middle line:90% President Nelson added: 00:30:36.200 --> 00:30:40.710 align:middle line:84% "These modifications have been under study for many months. 00:30:40.710 --> 00:30:44.960 align:middle line:84% We have felt a pressing need to improve the way we care 00:30:44.960 --> 00:30:46.740 align:middle line:90% for our members. ... 00:30:46.740 --> 00:30:49.250 align:middle line:84% To do that better, we need to strengthen 00:30:49.250 --> 00:30:52.930 align:middle line:84% our priesthood quorums to give greater direction 00:30:52.930 --> 00:30:54.790 align:middle line:84% to the ministering of love and support 00:30:54.790 --> 00:30:58.060 align:middle line:84% that the Lord intends for His Saints. 00:30:58.060 --> 00:31:01.430 align:middle line:84% "These adjustments are inspired of the Lord. 00:31:01.430 --> 00:31:05.340 align:middle line:84% As we implement them, we will be even more effective than we 00:31:05.340 --> 00:31:08.320 align:middle line:90% have ... been previously." 00:31:08.320 --> 00:31:09.930 align:middle line:84% At the First Presidency's direction, 00:31:09.930 --> 00:31:13.660 align:middle line:84% Elder Ronald A. Rasband and I will add some detail 00:31:13.660 --> 00:31:18.840 align:middle line:84% that we trust will respond to questions you may have. 00:31:18.840 --> 00:31:21.260 align:middle line:84% First, to reiterate, what are the adjustments 00:31:21.260 --> 00:31:25.110 align:middle line:84% for ward high priests groups and elders quorums? 00:31:25.110 --> 00:31:30.310 align:middle line:84% In wards, members of elders quorums and high priests groups 00:31:30.310 --> 00:31:33.800 align:middle line:84% will now be combined into one Melchizedek Priesthood quorum 00:31:33.800 --> 00:31:36.280 align:middle line:90% with one quorum presidency. 00:31:36.280 --> 00:31:39.990 align:middle line:84% This quorum, increased in numbers and unity, 00:31:39.990 --> 00:31:43.220 align:middle line:84% will be designated the "elders quorum." 00:31:43.220 --> 00:31:46.920 align:middle line:84% High priests groups are discontinued. 00:31:46.920 --> 00:31:50.180 align:middle line:84% The elders quorum includes all elders 00:31:50.180 --> 00:31:52.200 align:middle line:84% and prospective elders in the ward 00:31:52.200 --> 00:31:56.090 align:middle line:84% as well as high priests who are not currently 00:31:56.090 --> 00:32:00.050 align:middle line:84% serving in the bishopric, in the stake presidency, 00:32:00.050 --> 00:32:04.570 align:middle line:84% on the high council, or as functioning patriarchs. 00:32:04.570 --> 00:32:07.430 align:middle line:84% The high priests quorum in the stake 00:32:07.430 --> 00:32:10.030 align:middle line:84% will be composed of those high priests who 00:32:10.030 --> 00:32:12.920 align:middle line:84% are serving in the stake presidency, 00:32:12.920 --> 00:32:15.800 align:middle line:84% in bishoprics, on the high council, 00:32:15.800 --> 00:32:17.550 align:middle line:90% and as functioning patriarchs. 00:32:17.550 --> 00:32:20.620 align:middle line:90% 00:32:20.620 --> 00:32:23.870 align:middle line:84% How is the presidency of the elders quorum to be organized? 00:32:23.870 --> 00:32:28.080 align:middle line:84% The stake presidency will release current high priests 00:32:28.080 --> 00:32:31.880 align:middle line:84% group leaderships and elders quorum presidencies 00:32:31.880 --> 00:32:36.760 align:middle line:84% and will call a new elders quorum president and counselors 00:32:36.760 --> 00:32:38.440 align:middle line:90% in each ward. 00:32:38.440 --> 00:32:41.040 align:middle line:84% The new elders quorum presidency may 00:32:41.040 --> 00:32:45.180 align:middle line:84% include elders and high priests, of varying ages and experience, 00:32:45.180 --> 00:32:48.240 align:middle line:84% serving together in one quorum presidency. 00:32:48.240 --> 00:32:53.440 align:middle line:84% An elder or a high priest may serve as the quorum president 00:32:53.440 --> 00:32:56.820 align:middle line:84% or as a counselor in the presidency. 00:32:56.820 --> 00:33:02.070 align:middle line:84% This is not a "takeover" of elders quorums by high priests. 00:33:02.070 --> 00:33:04.360 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:33:04.360 --> 00:33:07.110 align:middle line:84% We expect elders and high priests 00:33:07.110 --> 00:33:10.830 align:middle line:84% to work together in any combination in the quorum 00:33:10.830 --> 00:33:13.770 align:middle line:84% presidency and in quorum service. 00:33:13.770 --> 00:33:18.090 align:middle line:84% These quorum adjustments should be implemented as soon 00:33:18.090 --> 00:33:21.650 align:middle line:90% as conveniently possible. 00:33:21.650 --> 00:33:23.670 align:middle line:84% Does this adjustment in quorum structure 00:33:23.670 --> 00:33:27.550 align:middle line:84% change the priesthood office held by quorum members? 00:33:27.550 --> 00:33:32.490 align:middle line:84% No, this action does not rescind any priesthood office 00:33:32.490 --> 00:33:35.390 align:middle line:84% to which any quorum member may have been ordained in the past. 00:33:35.390 --> 00:33:38.320 align:middle line:84% As you know, a man may be ordained 00:33:38.320 --> 00:33:41.340 align:middle line:84% to different priesthood offices over his lifetime, 00:33:41.340 --> 00:33:45.320 align:middle line:84% and he does not lose or forfeit any prior ordination 00:33:45.320 --> 00:33:47.180 align:middle line:90% when he receives a new one. 00:33:47.180 --> 00:33:50.360 align:middle line:84% While in some instances a priesthood bearer 00:33:50.360 --> 00:33:53.630 align:middle line:84% may serve in more than one office at a time, 00:33:53.630 --> 00:33:56.880 align:middle line:84% as when a high priest also serves as a patriarch 00:33:56.880 --> 00:33:59.510 align:middle line:84% or as a bishop, he typically does not 00:33:59.510 --> 00:34:03.310 align:middle line:84% function in all his priesthood offices at the same time. 00:34:03.310 --> 00:34:05.960 align:middle line:84% Bishops and Seventies, for instance, 00:34:05.960 --> 00:34:10.020 align:middle line:84% do not actively serve in those offices once they are released 00:34:10.020 --> 00:34:11.820 align:middle line:90% or made emeritus. 00:34:11.820 --> 00:34:17.159 align:middle line:84% Thus, whatever other priesthood office or offices a man 00:34:17.159 --> 00:34:20.790 align:middle line:84% may hold, while he is a member of the elders quorum, 00:34:20.790 --> 00:34:24.179 align:middle line:90% he serves as an elder. 00:34:24.179 --> 00:34:27.340 align:middle line:84% Years ago, President Boyd K. Packer observed that 00:34:27.340 --> 00:34:31.320 align:middle line:84% "the priesthood is greater than any of its offices. ... 00:34:31.320 --> 00:34:33.679 align:middle line:90% The priesthood is not divisible. 00:34:33.679 --> 00:34:38.190 align:middle line:84% An elder holds as much priesthood as an Apostle. 00:34:38.190 --> 00:34:41.620 align:middle line:84% When a man [has the priesthood conferred upon him], 00:34:41.620 --> 00:34:43.489 align:middle line:90% he receives all of it. 00:34:43.489 --> 00:34:46.280 align:middle line:84% However, there are offices within 00:34:46.280 --> 00:34:49.275 align:middle line:84% the priesthood--divisions of authority and responsibility. 00:34:49.275 --> 00:34:50.620 align:middle line:90% ... 00:34:50.620 --> 00:34:54.610 align:middle line:84% Sometimes one office is spoken of as being 'higher ...' 00:34:54.610 --> 00:34:57.610 align:middle line:90% or 'lower than' another office. 00:34:57.610 --> 00:35:02.350 align:middle line:84% Rather than 'higher' or 'lower,' offices in the Melchizedek 00:35:02.350 --> 00:35:05.610 align:middle line:84% Priesthood represent different areas of service." 00:35:05.610 --> 00:35:10.390 align:middle line:84% Brethren, I devoutly hope that we will no longer 00:35:10.390 --> 00:35:14.620 align:middle line:84% speak in terms of being "advanced" to another office 00:35:14.620 --> 00:35:17.810 align:middle line:90% in the Melchizedek Priesthood. 00:35:17.810 --> 00:35:22.010 align:middle line:84% Elders will continue to be ordained high priests when they 00:35:22.010 --> 00:35:25.860 align:middle line:84% are called to a stake presidency, high council, 00:35:25.860 --> 00:35:30.650 align:middle line:84% or bishopric--or at other times as determined by the stake 00:35:30.650 --> 00:35:35.390 align:middle line:84% president through prayerful consideration and inspiration. 00:35:35.390 --> 00:35:39.690 align:middle line:84% When their terms of service in a stake presidency, high council, 00:35:39.690 --> 00:35:42.990 align:middle line:84% or bishopric are completed, high priests 00:35:42.990 --> 00:35:45.940 align:middle line:84% will rejoin the elders quorum in their ward. 00:35:45.940 --> 00:35:49.320 align:middle line:90% 00:35:49.320 --> 00:35:51.970 align:middle line:84% Who directs the work of the elders quorum president? 00:35:51.970 --> 00:35:55.670 align:middle line:84% The stake president presides over the Melchizedek Priesthood 00:35:55.670 --> 00:35:56.470 align:middle line:90% in his stake. 00:35:56.470 --> 00:35:58.560 align:middle line:84% Therefore, the elders quorum president 00:35:58.560 --> 00:36:02.470 align:middle line:84% is directly responsible to the stake president, who 00:36:02.470 --> 00:36:05.930 align:middle line:84% provides training and guidance from the stake presidency 00:36:05.930 --> 00:36:08.040 align:middle line:90% and through the high council. 00:36:08.040 --> 00:36:11.560 align:middle line:84% The bishop, as the presiding high priest in the ward, 00:36:11.560 --> 00:36:15.530 align:middle line:84% also meets regularly with the elders quorum president. 00:36:15.530 --> 00:36:19.690 align:middle line:84% The bishop counsels with him and gives appropriate direction 00:36:19.690 --> 00:36:23.050 align:middle line:84% regarding how best to serve and bless 00:36:23.050 --> 00:36:27.050 align:middle line:84% ward members, working in harmony with all ward organizations. 00:36:27.050 --> 00:36:30.250 align:middle line:90% 00:36:30.250 --> 00:36:33.240 align:middle line:84% What are the purposes of the adjustments to Melchizedek 00:36:33.240 --> 00:36:34.820 align:middle line:90% Priesthood quorums? 00:36:34.820 --> 00:36:39.360 align:middle line:84% Having one Melchizedek Priesthood quorum in a ward 00:36:39.360 --> 00:36:42.890 align:middle line:84% unifies priesthood holders to accomplish 00:36:42.890 --> 00:36:45.520 align:middle line:84% all aspects of the work of salvation, 00:36:45.520 --> 00:36:48.410 align:middle line:84% including the temple and family history 00:36:48.410 --> 00:36:52.680 align:middle line:84% work previously coordinated by the high priests groups. 00:36:52.680 --> 00:36:56.180 align:middle line:84% It allows quorum members of all ages and backgrounds 00:36:56.180 --> 00:36:59.880 align:middle line:84% to benefit from the perspective and experience of one another 00:36:59.880 --> 00:37:03.800 align:middle line:84% and those in different stages of life. 00:37:03.800 --> 00:37:07.210 align:middle line:84% It also provides additional opportunities 00:37:07.210 --> 00:37:10.610 align:middle line:84% for experienced priesthood holders to mentor others, 00:37:10.610 --> 00:37:15.110 align:middle line:84% including prospective elders, new members, young adults, 00:37:15.110 --> 00:37:18.270 align:middle line:84% and those returning to Church activity. 00:37:18.270 --> 00:37:23.140 align:middle line:84% I cannot adequately express how excited I am to contemplate 00:37:23.140 --> 00:37:27.710 align:middle line:84% the increasingly vital role that elders quorums will play 00:37:27.710 --> 00:37:29.020 align:middle line:90% in the future. 00:37:29.020 --> 00:37:34.750 align:middle line:84% The wisdom, experience, capacity, and strength 00:37:34.750 --> 00:37:37.640 align:middle line:84% that will be found in these quorums 00:37:37.640 --> 00:37:42.310 align:middle line:84% portend a new day and a new standard of priesthood service 00:37:42.310 --> 00:37:45.720 align:middle line:90% across the Church. 00:37:45.720 --> 00:37:48.430 align:middle line:84% Twenty years ago in general conference, 00:37:48.430 --> 00:37:51.750 align:middle line:84% I related a story first told by Elder Vaughn J. 00:37:51.750 --> 00:37:56.490 align:middle line:84% Featherstone of the Seventy that I believe bears repeating here. 00:37:56.490 --> 00:37:59.230 align:middle line:90% 00:37:59.230 --> 00:38:03.360 align:middle line:84% In 1918, Brother George Goates was 00:38:03.360 --> 00:38:08.400 align:middle line:84% a farmer who raised sugar beets in Lehi, Utah. 00:38:08.400 --> 00:38:13.900 align:middle line:84% Winter came early that year and froze much of his beet crop 00:38:13.900 --> 00:38:15.360 align:middle line:90% in the ground. 00:38:15.360 --> 00:38:20.360 align:middle line:84% For George and his young son Francis, the harvest 00:38:20.360 --> 00:38:24.990 align:middle line:84% was slow and difficult. Meanwhile, an influenza 00:38:24.990 --> 00:38:26.940 align:middle line:90% epidemic was raging. 00:38:26.940 --> 00:38:31.880 align:middle line:84% The dreaded disease claimed the lives of George's son Charles 00:38:31.880 --> 00:38:37.300 align:middle line:84% and three of Charles's small children--two little girls 00:38:37.300 --> 00:38:38.680 align:middle line:90% and a boy. 00:38:38.680 --> 00:38:44.180 align:middle line:84% In the course of only six days, a grieving George Goates 00:38:44.180 --> 00:38:48.010 align:middle line:84% made three separate trips to Ogden, Utah, 00:38:48.010 --> 00:38:51.490 align:middle line:84% to bring the bodies home for burial. 00:38:51.490 --> 00:38:55.140 align:middle line:84% At the end of this terrible interlude, 00:38:55.140 --> 00:38:58.530 align:middle line:84% George and Francis hitched up their wagon 00:38:58.530 --> 00:39:02.060 align:middle line:84% and headed back to the beet field. 00:39:02.060 --> 00:39:05.790 align:middle line:84% "[On the way] they passed wagon after wagon-load of beets being 00:39:05.790 --> 00:39:07.590 align:middle line:90% hauled to the factory ... 00:39:07.590 --> 00:39:10.770 align:middle line:90% driven by neighborhood farmers. 00:39:10.770 --> 00:39:15.290 align:middle line:84% As they passed by, each driver would wave a greeting: 'Hi ya, 00:39:15.290 --> 00:39:20.810 align:middle line:84% Uncle George,' 'Sure sorry, George,' 'Tough break, 00:39:20.810 --> 00:39:26.240 align:middle line:84% George,' 'You've got a lot of friends, George.' 00:39:26.240 --> 00:39:27.820 align:middle line:90% "On the last wagon was ... 00:39:27.820 --> 00:39:30.020 align:middle line:90% freckled-faced Jasper Rolfe. 00:39:30.020 --> 00:39:32.800 align:middle line:84% He waved a cheery greeting and called out: 00:39:32.800 --> 00:39:36.326 align:middle line:84% 'That's all of 'em, Uncle George.' 00:39:36.326 --> 00:39:38.200 align:middle line:84% "[Brother Goates] turned to Francis and said: 00:39:38.200 --> 00:39:41.510 align:middle line:90% 'I wish it was all of ours.' 00:39:41.510 --> 00:39:43.280 align:middle line:84% "When they arrived at the farm gate, 00:39:43.280 --> 00:39:46.170 align:middle line:84% Francis jumped down off the big red beet wagon 00:39:46.170 --> 00:39:50.740 align:middle line:84% and opened the gate as [his father] drove onto the field. 00:39:50.740 --> 00:39:53.730 align:middle line:84% [George] pulled up, stopped the team, ... 00:39:53.730 --> 00:39:55.320 align:middle line:90% and scanned the field. ... 00:39:55.320 --> 00:39:59.020 align:middle line:84% There wasn't a sugar beet [in] the whole field. 00:39:59.020 --> 00:40:03.070 align:middle line:84% Then it dawned upon him what Jasper Rolfe meant when he 00:40:03.070 --> 00:40:07.880 align:middle line:84% called out: 'That's all of 'em, Uncle George!' 00:40:07.880 --> 00:40:09.980 align:middle line:84% "[George] got down off the wagon, 00:40:09.980 --> 00:40:14.530 align:middle line:84% picked up a handful of the rich, brown soil he loved so much, 00:40:14.530 --> 00:40:15.230 align:middle line:90% and then ... 00:40:15.230 --> 00:40:18.170 align:middle line:84% a beet top, and he looked for a moment 00:40:18.170 --> 00:40:21.030 align:middle line:84% at these symbols of his labor, as if he 00:40:21.030 --> 00:40:23.700 align:middle line:90% couldn't believe his eyes. 00:40:23.700 --> 00:40:27.420 align:middle line:84% "Then [he] sat down on a pile of beet tops--this man who had 00:40:27.420 --> 00:40:31.150 align:middle line:84% brought four of his loved ones home for burial in the course 00:40:31.150 --> 00:40:34.820 align:middle line:84% of only six days; made caskets, dug graves, 00:40:34.820 --> 00:40:38.270 align:middle line:84% and even helped with the burial clothing--this amazing man who 00:40:38.270 --> 00:40:40.020 align:middle line:84% had never faltered, nor flinched, 00:40:40.020 --> 00:40:45.230 align:middle line:84% nor wavered throughout this agonizing ordeal--sat down 00:40:45.230 --> 00:40:51.390 align:middle line:84% on a pile of beet tops and sobbed like a little child. 00:40:51.390 --> 00:40:53.800 align:middle line:84% "Then he arose and wiped his eyes, ... 00:40:53.800 --> 00:40:57.310 align:middle line:84% looked up at the sky, and said: 'Thanks, Father, 00:40:57.310 --> 00:41:02.910 align:middle line:90% for the elders of our ward.'" 00:41:02.910 --> 00:41:07.110 align:middle line:84% Yes, thanks be to God for the men of the priesthood 00:41:07.110 --> 00:41:09.370 align:middle line:84% and for the service they will yet 00:41:09.370 --> 00:41:12.090 align:middle line:84% render in lifting individuals and families 00:41:12.090 --> 00:41:15.570 align:middle line:90% and in establishing Zion. 00:41:15.570 --> 00:41:19.350 align:middle line:84% The First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, 00:41:19.350 --> 00:41:21.530 align:middle line:84% and the Presidency of the Seventy 00:41:21.530 --> 00:41:23.200 align:middle line:84% have considered these adjustments 00:41:23.200 --> 00:41:25.900 align:middle line:90% over an extended period of time. 00:41:25.900 --> 00:41:31.240 align:middle line:84% With much prayer, careful study of the scriptural foundation 00:41:31.240 --> 00:41:34.580 align:middle line:84% of priesthood quorums, and confirmation 00:41:34.580 --> 00:41:38.620 align:middle line:84% that this is the Lord's will, we are moving forward 00:41:38.620 --> 00:41:42.540 align:middle line:84% with unanimity in what is in reality one more 00:41:42.540 --> 00:41:45.970 align:middle line:84% step in the unfolding of the Restoration. 00:41:45.970 --> 00:41:48.650 align:middle line:84% The Lord's direction is manifest, 00:41:48.650 --> 00:41:54.030 align:middle line:84% and I rejoice in it as I bear witness of Him, His priesthood, 00:41:54.030 --> 00:41:57.190 align:middle line:84% and your ordinations in that priesthood, 00:41:57.190 --> 00:41:59.900 align:middle line:84% in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 00:41:59.900 --> 00:42:08.840 align:middle line:90% 00:42:08.840 --> 00:42:11.110 align:middle line:84% My beloved brethren of the priesthood, 00:42:11.110 --> 00:42:14.700 align:middle line:84% it is with great humility that I stand before you 00:42:14.700 --> 00:42:18.120 align:middle line:84% on this historic occasion, under assignment 00:42:18.120 --> 00:42:22.260 align:middle line:84% by our dear prophet and President, Russell M. Nelson. 00:42:22.260 --> 00:42:26.430 align:middle line:84% How I love and sustain this wonderful man of God 00:42:26.430 --> 00:42:29.280 align:middle line:90% and our new First Presidency. 00:42:29.280 --> 00:42:33.530 align:middle line:84% I add my witness to that of Elder D. Todd Christofferson 00:42:33.530 --> 00:42:37.240 align:middle line:84% and my other Brethren of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 00:42:37.240 --> 00:42:40.320 align:middle line:84% that the changes announced this evening are 00:42:40.320 --> 00:42:42.840 align:middle line:90% the will of the Lord. 00:42:42.840 --> 00:42:45.540 align:middle line:84% As stated by President Nelson, this 00:42:45.540 --> 00:42:47.380 align:middle line:84% is a matter that has been prayerfully 00:42:47.380 --> 00:42:50.570 align:middle line:84% discussed and considered by the senior Brethren 00:42:50.570 --> 00:42:52.640 align:middle line:90% of the Church for a long time. 00:42:52.640 --> 00:42:55.750 align:middle line:84% The desire was to seek the Lord's will 00:42:55.750 --> 00:42:59.650 align:middle line:84% and strengthen the quorums of the Melchizedek Priesthood. 00:42:59.650 --> 00:43:04.490 align:middle line:84% Inspiration was received, and this evening our prophet 00:43:04.490 --> 00:43:07.100 align:middle line:90% made known the will of the Lord. 00:43:07.100 --> 00:43:10.230 align:middle line:84% "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, 00:43:10.230 --> 00:43:14.490 align:middle line:84% but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." 00:43:14.490 --> 00:43:19.980 align:middle line:84% How blessed we are to have a living prophet today! 00:43:19.980 --> 00:43:22.140 align:middle line:84% Throughout our life, Sister Rasband and I 00:43:22.140 --> 00:43:24.720 align:middle line:84% have traveled the world on various Church 00:43:24.720 --> 00:43:27.030 align:middle line:90% and professional assignments. 00:43:27.030 --> 00:43:31.180 align:middle line:84% I have seen nearly every type of unit configuration 00:43:31.180 --> 00:43:35.830 align:middle line:84% in the Church--a small branch in Russia where the number 00:43:35.830 --> 00:43:39.680 align:middle line:84% of Melchizedek Priesthood could be counted on one hand, 00:43:39.680 --> 00:43:44.010 align:middle line:84% a new and growing ward in Africa where both high priests 00:43:44.010 --> 00:43:48.480 align:middle line:84% and elders met as a single body because the overall number 00:43:48.480 --> 00:43:51.820 align:middle line:84% of Melchizedek Priesthood holders was low, 00:43:51.820 --> 00:43:57.020 align:middle line:84% and well-established wards where the number of elders required 00:43:57.020 --> 00:44:01.690 align:middle line:84% the dividing of their quorum into two quorums! 00:44:01.690 --> 00:44:04.810 align:middle line:84% Everywhere we have gone, we have witnessed 00:44:04.810 --> 00:44:07.830 align:middle line:84% the hand of the Lord going before His servants, 00:44:07.830 --> 00:44:10.500 align:middle line:84% preparing the people and the way ahead 00:44:10.500 --> 00:44:13.630 align:middle line:84% so that all His children might be blessed 00:44:13.630 --> 00:44:15.770 align:middle line:90% according to their every need. 00:44:15.770 --> 00:44:19.910 align:middle line:84% Hasn't He promised that He "will go before [our] face" 00:44:19.910 --> 00:44:22.990 align:middle line:84% and "be on [our] right hand and on [our] left" 00:44:22.990 --> 00:44:25.780 align:middle line:84% and that His "Spirit shall be in your hearts, 00:44:25.780 --> 00:44:30.140 align:middle line:84% and [His] angels round about [us]"? 00:44:30.140 --> 00:44:34.690 align:middle line:84% Thinking about all of you, I am reminded of the hymn "Behold! 00:44:34.690 --> 00:44:37.320 align:middle line:90% A Royal Army." 00:44:37.320 --> 00:44:37.820 align:middle line:90% "Behold! 00:44:37.820 --> 00:44:39.190 align:middle line:90% A royal army, 00:44:39.190 --> 00:44:41.610 align:middle line:90% With banner, sword, and shield, 00:44:41.610 --> 00:44:43.890 align:middle line:90% Is marching forth to conquer 00:44:43.890 --> 00:44:46.640 align:middle line:90% On life's great battlefield. 00:44:46.640 --> 00:44:49.020 align:middle line:84% Its ranks are filled with soldiers, 00:44:49.020 --> 00:44:51.320 align:middle line:90% United, bold, and strong, 00:44:51.320 --> 00:44:53.460 align:middle line:90% Who follow their Commander 00:44:53.460 --> 00:44:57.330 align:middle line:90% And sing their joyful song." 00:44:57.330 --> 00:45:01.090 align:middle line:84% Elder Christofferson has answered several questions that 00:45:01.090 --> 00:45:03.700 align:middle line:84% are certain to arise from the announcement 00:45:03.700 --> 00:45:07.420 align:middle line:84% that high priests groups and elders quorums at the ward 00:45:07.420 --> 00:45:10.110 align:middle line:84% level are being combined into one 00:45:10.110 --> 00:45:16.190 align:middle line:84% unified, mighty army of brethren of the Melchizedek Priesthood. 00:45:16.190 --> 00:45:18.890 align:middle line:84% These adjustments will help elders quorums 00:45:18.890 --> 00:45:22.640 align:middle line:84% and Relief Societies harmonize their work. 00:45:22.640 --> 00:45:25.890 align:middle line:84% They will also simplify the quorum's coordination 00:45:25.890 --> 00:45:29.320 align:middle line:84% and the bishopric and ward council. 00:45:29.320 --> 00:45:34.220 align:middle line:84% And they allow the bishop to delegate more responsibilities 00:45:34.220 --> 00:45:38.970 align:middle line:84% to the elders quorum and Relief Society presidents so that 00:45:38.970 --> 00:45:43.220 align:middle line:84% the bishop and his counselors can focus on their primary 00:45:43.220 --> 00:45:47.980 align:middle line:84% duties--particularly presiding over the young women 00:45:47.980 --> 00:45:52.870 align:middle line:84% and the young men who bear the Aaronic Priesthood. 00:45:52.870 --> 00:45:56.450 align:middle line:84% Changes in organization and functions of the Church 00:45:56.450 --> 00:45:58.380 align:middle line:90% are not uncommon. 00:45:58.380 --> 00:46:03.220 align:middle line:84% In 1883 the Lord said to President John Taylor: 00:46:03.220 --> 00:46:07.560 align:middle line:84% "[Concerning] the management and organization of my Church 00:46:07.560 --> 00:46:09.110 align:middle line:90% and Priesthood ... 00:46:09.110 --> 00:46:11.300 align:middle line:84% I will reveal unto you, from time 00:46:11.300 --> 00:46:14.580 align:middle line:84% to time, through the channels that I have appointed, 00:46:14.580 --> 00:46:17.090 align:middle line:84% everything that shall be necessary 00:46:17.090 --> 00:46:20.700 align:middle line:84% for the future development and perfection of my Church, 00:46:20.700 --> 00:46:24.230 align:middle line:84% for the adjustment and rolling forth of my kingdom." 00:46:24.230 --> 00:46:27.580 align:middle line:90% 00:46:27.580 --> 00:46:31.620 align:middle line:84% Now, a few words to you brethren who are high priests--know that 00:46:31.620 --> 00:46:32.880 align:middle line:90% we love you! 00:46:32.880 --> 00:46:35.630 align:middle line:90% Our Father in Heaven loves you! 00:46:35.630 --> 00:46:39.320 align:middle line:84% You are a great part of the royal army of the priesthood, 00:46:39.320 --> 00:46:43.890 align:middle line:84% and we cannot move this work forward without your goodness, 00:46:43.890 --> 00:46:47.690 align:middle line:84% service, experience, and righteousness. 00:46:47.690 --> 00:46:51.900 align:middle line:84% Alma taught that men are called to be high priests because 00:46:51.900 --> 00:46:54.690 align:middle line:84% of their exceeding faith and good works 00:46:54.690 --> 00:46:58.140 align:middle line:84% to teach and to minister to others. 00:46:58.140 --> 00:47:04.970 align:middle line:84% That experience is needed now perhaps more than ever. 00:47:04.970 --> 00:47:07.910 align:middle line:84% In many wards, we may have high priests 00:47:07.910 --> 00:47:10.770 align:middle line:84% who are now going to have the opportunity 00:47:10.770 --> 00:47:14.610 align:middle line:84% to be presided over by an elder as their quorum president. 00:47:14.610 --> 00:47:18.900 align:middle line:84% We have a precedent of elders presiding over high priests: 00:47:18.900 --> 00:47:22.140 align:middle line:84% elders are currently serving as branch presidents 00:47:22.140 --> 00:47:25.710 align:middle line:84% in some regions of the world where high priests reside 00:47:25.710 --> 00:47:28.510 align:middle line:84% in the branch, and there are branches 00:47:28.510 --> 00:47:31.090 align:middle line:84% in which only an elders quorum is organized 00:47:31.090 --> 00:47:34.170 align:middle line:90% and high priests are present. 00:47:34.170 --> 00:47:38.060 align:middle line:84% What a joy it will be for all Melchizedek Priesthood holders 00:47:38.060 --> 00:47:40.300 align:middle line:84% to have the blessing of teaching, 00:47:40.300 --> 00:47:44.500 align:middle line:84% learning, and serving shoulder to shoulder with all 00:47:44.500 --> 00:47:46.510 align:middle line:90% the members in their ward. 00:47:46.510 --> 00:47:51.910 align:middle line:84% Wherever you are and whatever your circumstances may be, 00:47:51.910 --> 00:47:54.500 align:middle line:84% we invite you prayerfully, faithfully, 00:47:54.500 --> 00:47:57.700 align:middle line:84% and joyfully to accept new opportunities 00:47:57.700 --> 00:48:02.570 align:middle line:84% to lead or to be led and to serve unitedly 00:48:02.570 --> 00:48:06.790 align:middle line:84% as a body of priesthood brethren. 00:48:06.790 --> 00:48:08.800 align:middle line:84% I will now address additional matters 00:48:08.800 --> 00:48:12.210 align:middle line:84% which may need clarification as we move forward 00:48:12.210 --> 00:48:15.110 align:middle line:84% to implement the will of the Lord regarding 00:48:15.110 --> 00:48:19.440 align:middle line:84% the organization of His quorums of the holy priesthood. 00:48:19.440 --> 00:48:22.720 align:middle line:84% What are the adjustments for a stake high priests quorum? 00:48:22.720 --> 00:48:26.520 align:middle line:84% Stake high priests quorums will continue to function. 00:48:26.520 --> 00:48:29.180 align:middle line:84% Stake presidencies will continue to serve 00:48:29.180 --> 00:48:32.780 align:middle line:84% as the presidency of the stake high priests quorum. 00:48:32.780 --> 00:48:35.990 align:middle line:84% However, as noted by Elder Christofferson, 00:48:35.990 --> 00:48:38.610 align:middle line:84% members of the stake high priests quorum 00:48:38.610 --> 00:48:43.190 align:middle line:84% will now consist of high priests currently serving in the stake 00:48:43.190 --> 00:48:46.610 align:middle line:84% presidency, as members of a ward bishopric, 00:48:46.610 --> 00:48:49.070 align:middle line:84% as members of the stake high council, 00:48:49.070 --> 00:48:51.530 align:middle line:90% and the functioning patriarch. 00:48:51.530 --> 00:48:55.760 align:middle line:84% Ward and stake clerks and executive secretaries 00:48:55.760 --> 00:48:59.560 align:middle line:84% are not members of the stake high priests quorum. 00:48:59.560 --> 00:49:02.820 align:middle line:84% When someone who is actively serving 00:49:02.820 --> 00:49:06.570 align:middle line:84% as a high priest, patriarch, Seventy, or Apostle 00:49:06.570 --> 00:49:10.520 align:middle line:84% is visiting a ward and desires to attend priesthood meeting, 00:49:10.520 --> 00:49:13.660 align:middle line:84% he will meet with the elders quorum. 00:49:13.660 --> 00:49:17.090 align:middle line:84% As brethren in these callings are released in due course, 00:49:17.090 --> 00:49:19.530 align:middle line:84% they will return to their home units 00:49:19.530 --> 00:49:23.350 align:middle line:90% as members of the elders quorum. 00:49:23.350 --> 00:49:26.220 align:middle line:84% What is the role of the stake high priests quorum? 00:49:26.220 --> 00:49:29.930 align:middle line:84% The stake presidency meets with members of the high priests 00:49:29.930 --> 00:49:33.200 align:middle line:84% quorum to counsel together, to testify, 00:49:33.200 --> 00:49:35.620 align:middle line:90% and to provide training. 00:49:35.620 --> 00:49:39.040 align:middle line:84% Stake meetings as outlined in our handbooks 00:49:39.040 --> 00:49:43.330 align:middle line:84% will continue with two adjustments: 00:49:43.330 --> 00:49:46.620 align:middle line:84% One, wards and stakes will no longer 00:49:46.620 --> 00:49:49.910 align:middle line:84% hold priesthood executive committee meetings. 00:49:49.910 --> 00:49:54.870 align:middle line:84% If a special ward issue arises, such as a delicate family 00:49:54.870 --> 00:49:58.240 align:middle line:84% matter or an unusual welfare challenge, 00:49:58.240 --> 00:50:01.890 align:middle line:84% it could be addressed in an expanded bishopric meeting. 00:50:01.890 --> 00:50:04.320 align:middle line:84% Other less-sensitive matters can be 00:50:04.320 --> 00:50:07.070 align:middle line:90% addressed in the ward council. 00:50:07.070 --> 00:50:10.160 align:middle line:84% What has been known as the stake priesthood 00:50:10.160 --> 00:50:13.970 align:middle line:84% executive committee meeting will now be called the "high council 00:50:13.970 --> 00:50:15.280 align:middle line:90% meeting." 00:50:15.280 --> 00:50:19.420 align:middle line:84% Two, the annual meeting of all ordained high priests 00:50:19.420 --> 00:50:22.520 align:middle line:84% in the stake will no longer be held. 00:50:22.520 --> 00:50:25.480 align:middle line:84% However, the stake presidency will 00:50:25.480 --> 00:50:29.000 align:middle line:84% continue to hold an annual meeting of the stake 00:50:29.000 --> 00:50:33.820 align:middle line:84% high priests quorum as it has been announced today. 00:50:33.820 --> 00:50:36.980 align:middle line:84% Can a ward have more than one elders quorum? 00:50:36.980 --> 00:50:38.910 align:middle line:90% The answer is yes. 00:50:38.910 --> 00:50:42.570 align:middle line:84% In the spirit of Doctrine and Covenants section 107, 00:50:42.570 --> 00:50:47.390 align:middle line:84% verse 89, when a ward has an unusually large number 00:50:47.390 --> 00:50:50.340 align:middle line:84% of active Melchizedek Priesthood bearers, 00:50:50.340 --> 00:50:54.470 align:middle line:84% leaders may organize more than one elders quorum. 00:50:54.470 --> 00:50:57.430 align:middle line:84% In such cases, each quorum should 00:50:57.430 --> 00:51:01.570 align:middle line:84% have a reasonable balance in terms of age, experience, 00:51:01.570 --> 00:51:05.630 align:middle line:84% and priesthood office and strength. 00:51:05.630 --> 00:51:08.090 align:middle line:84% I testify that as we move forward 00:51:08.090 --> 00:51:12.000 align:middle line:84% with this inspired quorum restructuring in our wards 00:51:12.000 --> 00:51:15.840 align:middle line:84% and stakes that we will see a multitude of blessings. 00:51:15.840 --> 00:51:19.660 align:middle line:90% Let me cite just a few examples. 00:51:19.660 --> 00:51:21.330 align:middle line:84% Under the direction of the bishop, 00:51:21.330 --> 00:51:24.520 align:middle line:84% more priesthood resources may assist 00:51:24.520 --> 00:51:26.430 align:middle line:90% with the work of salvation. 00:51:26.430 --> 00:51:29.240 align:middle line:84% This would include the gathering of Israel 00:51:29.240 --> 00:51:31.740 align:middle line:84% through temple and family history work, 00:51:31.740 --> 00:51:35.160 align:middle line:84% working with families and individuals in need, 00:51:35.160 --> 00:51:40.800 align:middle line:84% and helping the missionaries to bring souls to Jesus Christ. 00:51:40.800 --> 00:51:44.410 align:middle line:84% As previous presiding leaders return 00:51:44.410 --> 00:51:47.590 align:middle line:84% to share their experience with the quorum of elders, 00:51:47.590 --> 00:51:52.260 align:middle line:84% a stronger quorum membership will result. 00:51:52.260 --> 00:51:53.880 align:middle line:84% There will be a greater diversity 00:51:53.880 --> 00:51:57.180 align:middle line:84% of gifts and capacities within the quorum. 00:51:57.180 --> 00:52:00.260 align:middle line:84% There will be more flexibility and availability 00:52:00.260 --> 00:52:04.680 align:middle line:84% to meet current and urgent needs within the ward and quorum 00:52:04.680 --> 00:52:10.130 align:middle line:84% and in fulfilling our various ministering assignments. 00:52:10.130 --> 00:52:13.700 align:middle line:84% There will be an increase in mentoring and unanimity 00:52:13.700 --> 00:52:17.520 align:middle line:84% as a new elder and an experienced high priest 00:52:17.520 --> 00:52:22.030 align:middle line:84% share experiences, side by side, in quorum meetings 00:52:22.030 --> 00:52:24.530 align:middle line:90% and assignments. 00:52:24.530 --> 00:52:26.830 align:middle line:84% Bishops and branch presidents would hopefully 00:52:26.830 --> 00:52:30.730 align:middle line:84% be liberated to magnify their callings 00:52:30.730 --> 00:52:36.660 align:middle line:84% to shepherd their flocks and to minister to those in need. 00:52:36.660 --> 00:52:39.720 align:middle line:84% We understand that each ward and stake is different. 00:52:39.720 --> 00:52:42.530 align:middle line:84% While understanding these differences, 00:52:42.530 --> 00:52:44.820 align:middle line:84% we are hopeful that you will follow through 00:52:44.820 --> 00:52:47.670 align:middle line:84% with these changes promptly following 00:52:47.670 --> 00:52:49.700 align:middle line:90% this general conference. 00:52:49.700 --> 00:52:53.770 align:middle line:84% We have been given direction by a prophet of God! 00:52:53.770 --> 00:52:57.800 align:middle line:84% What a tremendous blessing and responsibility. 00:52:57.800 --> 00:53:03.430 align:middle line:84% Let us fulfill it with all righteousness and diligence! 00:53:03.430 --> 00:53:06.130 align:middle line:84% I remind you, priesthood authority 00:53:06.130 --> 00:53:10.240 align:middle line:84% comes by way of setting apart and ordination, 00:53:10.240 --> 00:53:13.830 align:middle line:84% but real priesthood power, the power 00:53:13.830 --> 00:53:16.760 align:middle line:84% to act in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, 00:53:16.760 --> 00:53:21.730 align:middle line:84% can come only through righteous living. 00:53:21.730 --> 00:53:24.640 align:middle line:84% The Lord declared to the Prophet Joseph Smith, 00:53:24.640 --> 00:53:27.130 align:middle line:90% the prophet of the Restoration: 00:53:27.130 --> 00:53:31.200 align:middle line:84% "Behold, and lo, I will take care of your flocks, 00:53:31.200 --> 00:53:35.940 align:middle line:84% and will raise up elders and send unto them. 00:53:35.940 --> 00:53:41.150 align:middle line:84% "Behold, I will hasten my work in its time." 00:53:41.150 --> 00:53:47.360 align:middle line:84% Indeed, this is a time when the Lord is hastening His work. 00:53:47.360 --> 00:53:50.890 align:middle line:84% Let us each use this opportunity to reflect and improve 00:53:50.890 --> 00:53:54.240 align:middle line:84% our lives to better align with His will 00:53:54.240 --> 00:53:58.120 align:middle line:84% so that we may deserve the many blessings He has promised 00:53:58.120 --> 00:54:01.590 align:middle line:90% to the true and faithful. 00:54:01.590 --> 00:54:04.340 align:middle line:84% Brethren, thank you for all that you 00:54:04.340 --> 00:54:08.710 align:middle line:84% are doing to be a part of this magnificent work. 00:54:08.710 --> 00:54:14.730 align:middle line:84% May we go forward in this great and honored cause. 00:54:14.730 --> 00:54:16.900 align:middle line:90% "Oh, when the war is ended, 00:54:16.900 --> 00:54:19.760 align:middle line:90% When strife and conflicts cease, 00:54:19.760 --> 00:54:22.260 align:middle line:90% When all are safely gathered 00:54:22.260 --> 00:54:24.810 align:middle line:90% Within the vale of peace, 00:54:24.810 --> 00:54:27.030 align:middle line:90% Before the King eternal, 00:54:27.030 --> 00:54:29.490 align:middle line:90% That vast and mighty throng 00:54:29.490 --> 00:54:32.240 align:middle line:90% Shall praise his name forever, 00:54:32.240 --> 00:54:35.310 align:middle line:90% And this shall be their song: 00:54:35.310 --> 00:54:37.610 align:middle line:90% Victory, victory, 00:54:37.610 --> 00:54:39.910 align:middle line:90% Thru him that redeemed us! 00:54:39.910 --> 00:54:41.650 align:middle line:90% Victory, victory, 00:54:41.650 --> 00:54:44.500 align:middle line:90% Thru Jesus Christ, our Lord! 00:54:44.500 --> 00:54:46.690 align:middle line:90% Victory, victory, ... 00:54:46.690 --> 00:54:50.250 align:middle line:90% Thru Jesus Christ, our Lord!" 00:54:50.250 --> 00:54:53.630 align:middle line:84% Today we all stand as witnesses of the Lord 00:54:53.630 --> 00:54:57.910 align:middle line:84% revealing His will through His prophet, President Russell M. 00:54:57.910 --> 00:54:58.790 align:middle line:90% Nelson. 00:54:58.790 --> 00:55:03.050 align:middle line:84% I testify that he is God's prophet here on earth. 00:55:03.050 --> 00:55:05.670 align:middle line:84% I bear my witness of the Lord Jesus 00:55:05.670 --> 00:55:09.890 align:middle line:84% Christ, who is our great Redeemer and Savior. 00:55:09.890 --> 00:55:14.980 align:middle line:84% This is His work, and this is His will, 00:55:14.980 --> 00:55:18.960 align:middle line:84% to which I bear solemn testimony in the name of Jesus 00:55:18.960 --> 00:55:20.230 align:middle line:90% Christ, amen. 00:55:20.230 --> 00:55:31.800 align:middle line:90% 00:55:31.800 --> 00:55:34.900 align:middle line:84% The congregation will now join the choir 00:55:34.900 --> 00:55:39.070 align:middle line:84% in singing "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty." 00:55:39.070 --> 00:55:42.700 align:middle line:84% It will then be my privilege to address you. 00:55:42.700 --> 00:55:46.010 align:middle line:84% President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor 00:55:46.010 --> 00:55:49.040 align:middle line:84% in the First Presidency, will then speak to us. 00:55:49.040 --> 00:55:54.518 align:middle line:90% 00:55:54.518 --> 00:59:16.074 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING--"PRAISE TO THE LORD, THE ALMIGHTY"] 00:59:16.074 --> 00:59:24.540 align:middle line:90% 00:59:24.540 --> 00:59:29.050 align:middle line:84% My beloved brethren, I am grateful for the privilege 00:59:29.050 --> 00:59:34.140 align:middle line:84% of speaking to you in this historic general conference. 00:59:34.140 --> 00:59:37.900 align:middle line:84% We have sustained President Russell M. Nelson 00:59:37.900 --> 00:59:41.700 align:middle line:84% as the 17th President of The Church of Jesus 00:59:41.700 --> 00:59:44.050 align:middle line:90% Christ of Latter-day Saints. 00:59:44.050 --> 00:59:48.010 align:middle line:84% As I have had the blessing of working with him each day, 00:59:48.010 --> 00:59:51.870 align:middle line:84% I have felt a confirmation of the Spirit 00:59:51.870 --> 00:59:54.820 align:middle line:84% that President Nelson is called of God 00:59:54.820 --> 00:59:59.280 align:middle line:90% to lead the Lord's true Church. 00:59:59.280 --> 01:00:01.500 align:middle line:84% It is also my witness that the Lord 01:00:01.500 --> 01:00:05.590 align:middle line:84% has called Elder Gong and Elder Soares to serve 01:00:05.590 --> 01:00:09.590 align:middle line:84% as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 01:00:09.590 --> 01:00:12.660 align:middle line:90% I love and sustain them. 01:00:12.660 --> 01:00:17.800 align:middle line:84% They will, by their ministry, bless lives across the world 01:00:17.800 --> 01:00:20.760 align:middle line:90% and across generations. 01:00:20.760 --> 01:00:24.380 align:middle line:84% This conference is historic for yet another reason. 01:00:24.380 --> 01:00:30.350 align:middle line:84% President Nelson has announced an inspired step forward 01:00:30.350 --> 01:00:33.420 align:middle line:84% in the Lord's organized plan for His Church. 01:00:33.420 --> 01:00:36.110 align:middle line:84% That plan includes a new structure 01:00:36.110 --> 01:00:39.160 align:middle line:84% for priesthood quorums in wards and stakes 01:00:39.160 --> 01:00:42.200 align:middle line:84% so that we may better fulfill our priesthood 01:00:42.200 --> 01:00:44.510 align:middle line:90% responsibilities. 01:00:44.510 --> 01:00:51.140 align:middle line:84% Those responsibilities all have to do with our priesthood care 01:00:51.140 --> 01:00:54.490 align:middle line:90% of our Father's children. 01:00:54.490 --> 01:00:58.070 align:middle line:84% The Lord's plan for His Saints to provide loving care 01:00:58.070 --> 01:01:01.750 align:middle line:84% has taken many forms over the years. 01:01:01.750 --> 01:01:05.200 align:middle line:84% In the early days of Nauvoo, the Prophet Joseph Smith 01:01:05.200 --> 01:01:08.230 align:middle line:84% needed an organized way to care for the flood 01:01:08.230 --> 01:01:12.840 align:middle line:84% of largely impoverished converts coming into the city. 01:01:12.840 --> 01:01:17.110 align:middle line:84% Four of my great-grandparents were among them--the Eyrings, 01:01:17.110 --> 01:01:20.080 align:middle line:90% Bennions, Romneys, and Smiths. 01:01:20.080 --> 01:01:24.400 align:middle line:84% The Prophet organized the care of those Saints by geography. 01:01:24.400 --> 01:01:30.100 align:middle line:84% In Illinois, those divisions of the city were called "wards." 01:01:30.100 --> 01:01:32.880 align:middle line:84% As the Saints moved across the plains, 01:01:32.880 --> 01:01:36.990 align:middle line:84% their care for each other was organized in "companies." 01:01:36.990 --> 01:01:39.870 align:middle line:84% One of my paternal great-grandfathers 01:01:39.870 --> 01:01:45.240 align:middle line:84% was returning from his mission in what is now Oklahoma when 01:01:45.240 --> 01:01:47.860 align:middle line:90% he met a company on the trail. 01:01:47.860 --> 01:01:52.030 align:middle line:84% He was so weak with disease that he and his companion 01:01:52.030 --> 01:01:55.790 align:middle line:84% were on their backs in a little wagon. 01:01:55.790 --> 01:01:58.680 align:middle line:84% The leader of the company sent two young women 01:01:58.680 --> 01:02:03.160 align:middle line:84% to help whoever might be in that forlorn wagon. 01:02:03.160 --> 01:02:06.410 align:middle line:84% One of them, a young sister who had been converted 01:02:06.410 --> 01:02:10.190 align:middle line:84% in Switzerland, took a look at one of the missionaries 01:02:10.190 --> 01:02:12.050 align:middle line:90% and felt compassion. 01:02:12.050 --> 01:02:15.360 align:middle line:84% He was saved by that company of Saints. 01:02:15.360 --> 01:02:18.550 align:middle line:84% He recovered enough to walk the rest of the way 01:02:18.550 --> 01:02:23.510 align:middle line:84% to the Salt Lake Valley with the young rescuer by his side. 01:02:23.510 --> 01:02:26.570 align:middle line:90% They fell in love and married. 01:02:26.570 --> 01:02:29.950 align:middle line:84% He became my great-grandfather Henry Eyring, 01:02:29.950 --> 01:02:34.940 align:middle line:84% and she my great-grandmother Maria Bommeli Eyring. 01:02:34.940 --> 01:02:37.010 align:middle line:84% Years later, when people remarked 01:02:37.010 --> 01:02:40.660 align:middle line:84% at the great difficulty of moving across a continent, 01:02:40.660 --> 01:02:43.470 align:middle line:84% she said, "Oh no, it wasn't hard. 01:02:43.470 --> 01:02:47.280 align:middle line:84% While we walked, we talked the whole way about what a miracle 01:02:47.280 --> 01:02:51.430 align:middle line:84% it was that we had both found the true gospel of Jesus 01:02:51.430 --> 01:02:52.250 align:middle line:90% Christ. 01:02:52.250 --> 01:02:56.260 align:middle line:84% It was the happiest time I can remember." 01:02:56.260 --> 01:02:59.700 align:middle line:84% Since then, the Lord has used a variety of ways 01:02:59.700 --> 01:03:03.030 align:middle line:84% to help His Saints care for each other. 01:03:03.030 --> 01:03:06.770 align:middle line:84% Now He has blessed us with strengthened and unified 01:03:06.770 --> 01:03:11.970 align:middle line:84% quorums at the ward and stake levels--quorums that work 01:03:11.970 --> 01:03:17.150 align:middle line:84% in coordination with all ward organizations. 01:03:17.150 --> 01:03:20.270 align:middle line:84% Municipal wards, companies, and strengthened quorums 01:03:20.270 --> 01:03:23.670 align:middle line:84% have all required at least two things 01:03:23.670 --> 01:03:26.720 align:middle line:84% to be successful in the Lord's intent 01:03:26.720 --> 01:03:30.430 align:middle line:84% to have His Saints care for each other in the way He 01:03:30.430 --> 01:03:31.740 align:middle line:90% cares for them. 01:03:31.740 --> 01:03:36.510 align:middle line:84% They succeed when the Saints feel the love of Christ 01:03:36.510 --> 01:03:40.240 align:middle line:84% for each other above their self-interest. 01:03:40.240 --> 01:03:43.390 align:middle line:84% The scriptures call it "charity ... 01:03:43.390 --> 01:03:45.080 align:middle line:90% the pure love of Christ." 01:03:45.080 --> 01:03:49.390 align:middle line:84% And they succeed when the Holy Ghost guides the caregiver 01:03:49.390 --> 01:03:53.070 align:middle line:84% to know what the Lord knows is best for the person 01:03:53.070 --> 01:03:56.040 align:middle line:90% that he is trying to help. 01:03:56.040 --> 01:03:59.960 align:middle line:84% Time after time in recent weeks, members of the Church 01:03:59.960 --> 01:04:04.450 align:middle line:84% have acted in my presence as if they somehow 01:04:04.450 --> 01:04:07.950 align:middle line:84% had anticipated what the Lord was going to do 01:04:07.950 --> 01:04:09.920 align:middle line:84% and has been announced here today. 01:04:09.920 --> 01:04:12.610 align:middle line:84% Let me give you just two examples. 01:04:12.610 --> 01:04:17.480 align:middle line:84% One, a simple sacrament meeting talk by a 14-year-old teacher 01:04:17.480 --> 01:04:20.880 align:middle line:84% in the Aaronic Priesthood who understands 01:04:20.880 --> 01:04:23.300 align:middle line:84% what priesthood holders can accomplish 01:04:23.300 --> 01:04:25.690 align:middle line:90% in their service for the Lord. 01:04:25.690 --> 01:04:28.800 align:middle line:84% Then the second story, a Melchizedek Priesthood holder 01:04:28.800 --> 01:04:35.860 align:middle line:84% who, with the love of Christ, was inspired to serve a family. 01:04:35.860 --> 01:04:38.800 align:middle line:84% First, let me give you the words of the young man speaking 01:04:38.800 --> 01:04:40.490 align:middle line:90% to a ward sacrament meeting. 01:04:40.490 --> 01:04:41.150 align:middle line:90% I was there. 01:04:41.150 --> 01:04:45.280 align:middle line:84% Try to remember what you were like when 01:04:45.280 --> 01:04:48.730 align:middle line:84% you were 14 years old, and listen 01:04:48.730 --> 01:04:53.530 align:middle line:84% to hear him say more than so young a man could reasonably 01:04:53.530 --> 01:04:54.240 align:middle line:90% know: 01:04:54.240 --> 01:04:57.380 align:middle line:84% "I have really liked being a member of the teachers 01:04:57.380 --> 01:05:01.090 align:middle line:84% quorum in our ward since I turned 14 last year. 01:05:01.090 --> 01:05:04.250 align:middle line:84% A teacher still has all the responsibilities 01:05:04.250 --> 01:05:07.360 align:middle line:90% of a deacon plus some new ones. 01:05:07.360 --> 01:05:10.370 align:middle line:84% "Since some of us are teachers, others will be someday, 01:05:10.370 --> 01:05:13.400 align:middle line:84% and everyone in the Church is blessed by the priesthood, 01:05:13.400 --> 01:05:16.020 align:middle line:84% so it's important [to] all of us to know more 01:05:16.020 --> 01:05:18.620 align:middle line:90% about the duties of a teacher. 01:05:18.620 --> 01:05:23.080 align:middle line:84% "First of all, Doctrine and Covenants 20:53 says, 01:05:23.080 --> 01:05:27.800 align:middle line:84% 'The teacher's duty is to watch over the church always, 01:05:27.800 --> 01:05:31.160 align:middle line:84% and be with and strengthen them.' 01:05:31.160 --> 01:05:36.461 align:middle line:84% "Next, Doctrine and Covenants 20:54-55"--this 14-year-old 01:05:36.461 --> 01:05:37.461 align:middle line:90% quoted these scriptures. 01:05:37.461 --> 01:05:40.100 align:middle line:84% I don't think he even had a note, 01:05:40.100 --> 01:05:43.440 align:middle line:84% if I've got it right--"'And see that there is no iniquity 01:05:43.440 --> 01:05:47.190 align:middle line:84% in the church, neither hardness with each other, neither lying, 01:05:47.190 --> 01:05:49.860 align:middle line:90% backbiting, nor evil speaking; 01:05:49.860 --> 01:05:52.480 align:middle line:84% "'And see that the church meet together often, 01:05:52.480 --> 01:05:56.050 align:middle line:84% and also see that all the members do their duty.'" 01:05:56.050 --> 01:05:58.250 align:middle line:90% The young man continued: 01:05:58.250 --> 01:06:02.670 align:middle line:84% "The Lord is telling us it's our responsibility 01:06:02.670 --> 01:06:06.600 align:middle line:84% to not only care for the Church but to also care for the people 01:06:06.600 --> 01:06:09.630 align:middle line:84% within the Church the way that Christ would 01:06:09.630 --> 01:06:11.930 align:middle line:90% because this is His Church. 01:06:11.930 --> 01:06:14.950 align:middle line:84% If we are trying to keep the commandments, 01:06:14.950 --> 01:06:18.010 align:middle line:84% be kind to each other, be honest, be good friends, 01:06:18.010 --> 01:06:21.110 align:middle line:84% and enjoy being together, then we 01:06:21.110 --> 01:06:23.550 align:middle line:84% will be able to have the Spirit with us 01:06:23.550 --> 01:06:26.670 align:middle line:84% and know what Heavenly Father wants us to do. 01:06:26.670 --> 01:06:31.090 align:middle line:84% If we don't, then we can't fulfill our calling." 01:06:31.090 --> 01:06:32.760 align:middle line:90% He went on to say: 01:06:32.760 --> 01:06:35.560 align:middle line:84% "When a teacher chooses to set the right example 01:06:35.560 --> 01:06:40.140 align:middle line:84% by being a good home teacher, greeting the members at Church, 01:06:40.140 --> 01:06:42.560 align:middle line:84% preparing the sacrament, helping at home, 01:06:42.560 --> 01:06:45.510 align:middle line:84% and being a peacemaker, he's choosing 01:06:45.510 --> 01:06:49.890 align:middle line:84% to honor his priesthood and fulfill his calling. 01:06:49.890 --> 01:06:51.630 align:middle line:84% "Being a good teacher doesn't only 01:06:51.630 --> 01:06:54.470 align:middle line:84% mean being responsible when we are at church or at Church 01:06:54.470 --> 01:06:55.550 align:middle line:90% activities. 01:06:55.550 --> 01:06:58.910 align:middle line:84% The Apostle Paul taught, 'Be thou an example 01:06:58.910 --> 01:07:02.420 align:middle line:84% of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, 01:07:02.420 --> 01:07:04.930 align:middle line:84% in spirit, in faith, in purity.'" 01:07:04.930 --> 01:07:07.980 align:middle line:84% Then the young man said, "No matter where we are 01:07:07.980 --> 01:07:12.120 align:middle line:84% or what we are doing, we can be a good example of righteousness 01:07:12.120 --> 01:07:15.240 align:middle line:90% at all times and in all places." 01:07:15.240 --> 01:07:15.740 align:middle line:90% He said: 01:07:15.740 --> 01:07:18.390 align:middle line:84% "My dad and I home teach the Browns. 01:07:18.390 --> 01:07:21.730 align:middle line:84% Every time we go over there, I have a great time visiting 01:07:21.730 --> 01:07:23.360 align:middle line:90% and getting to know them. 01:07:23.360 --> 01:07:26.320 align:middle line:84% One thing I really like about the Browns is whenever we go 01:07:26.320 --> 01:07:27.460 align:middle line:90% over there, they are ... 01:07:27.460 --> 01:07:29.900 align:middle line:84% willing to listen and they always 01:07:29.900 --> 01:07:32.930 align:middle line:90% have good stories to share. 01:07:32.930 --> 01:07:35.820 align:middle line:84% "When we know people in the ward well because of home teaching, 01:07:35.820 --> 01:07:39.280 align:middle line:84% it makes it easier to do the next duty of a teacher, 01:07:39.280 --> 01:07:41.910 align:middle line:84% and that's greeting the members at church. 01:07:41.910 --> 01:07:45.060 align:middle line:84% Helping people feel welcome and included at church 01:07:45.060 --> 01:07:48.380 align:middle line:84% helps all the members of the ward feel loved and prepared 01:07:48.380 --> 01:07:50.580 align:middle line:90% to take the sacrament. 01:07:50.580 --> 01:07:53.080 align:middle line:84% "After greeting members who have come to church, 01:07:53.080 --> 01:07:56.340 align:middle line:84% teachers help each Sunday by preparing the sacrament. 01:07:56.340 --> 01:07:58.590 align:middle line:84% I really enjoy passing and preparing 01:07:58.590 --> 01:08:01.270 align:middle line:84% the sacrament in this ward because everyone 01:08:01.270 --> 01:08:02.550 align:middle line:90% is so reverent. 01:08:02.550 --> 01:08:06.990 align:middle line:84% I always feel the Spirit when I prepare and pass the sacrament. 01:08:06.990 --> 01:08:11.940 align:middle line:84% It's a real blessing to me that I'm able to do it every Sunday. 01:08:11.940 --> 01:08:14.930 align:middle line:84% "Some service like passing the sacrament is something people 01:08:14.930 --> 01:08:18.300 align:middle line:84% see and they thank us for doing it, 01:08:18.300 --> 01:08:21.260 align:middle line:84% but other service like preparing the sacrament 01:08:21.260 --> 01:08:23.930 align:middle line:84% is usually done without anyone noticing. 01:08:23.930 --> 01:08:28.620 align:middle line:84% It isn't important if people see us serving; what's important 01:08:28.620 --> 01:08:32.740 align:middle line:84% is that the Lord knows we have served Him. 01:08:32.740 --> 01:08:35.080 align:middle line:84% "As teachers, we should always try 01:08:35.080 --> 01:08:37.910 align:middle line:84% to strengthen the Church, our friends, and our family 01:08:37.910 --> 01:08:40.930 align:middle line:84% by fulfilling our priesthood responsibilities. 01:08:40.930 --> 01:08:45.220 align:middle line:84% It's not always easy, but the Lord gives no commandments 01:08:45.220 --> 01:08:48.790 align:middle line:84% to us 'save he shall prepare a way for [us to] accomplish 01:08:48.790 --> 01:08:51.140 align:middle line:90% the thing which he commandeth.'" 01:08:51.140 --> 01:08:54.149 align:middle line:84% As that young man concluded, I continued 01:08:54.149 --> 01:08:57.189 align:middle line:84% to be amazed and touched, as you can tell, 01:08:57.189 --> 01:08:59.450 align:middle line:90% at his maturity and wisdom. 01:08:59.450 --> 01:09:02.960 align:middle line:84% He summarized by saying, "I know we 01:09:02.960 --> 01:09:06.485 align:middle line:84% will become better if we choose to follow [Jesus Christ]." 01:09:06.485 --> 01:09:09.160 align:middle line:90% 01:09:09.160 --> 01:09:11.970 align:middle line:84% Another story of priesthood service 01:09:11.970 --> 01:09:14.939 align:middle line:84% was told a month ago in a ward sacrament meeting. 01:09:14.939 --> 01:09:16.819 align:middle line:90% Again, I was there. 01:09:16.819 --> 01:09:21.330 align:middle line:84% In this case, the seasoned Melchizedek Priesthood holder 01:09:21.330 --> 01:09:24.140 align:middle line:84% didn't know as he spoke that he was describing 01:09:24.140 --> 01:09:26.810 align:middle line:84% exactly what the Lord desires to happen 01:09:26.810 --> 01:09:29.550 align:middle line:84% with strengthened priesthood quorums. 01:09:29.550 --> 01:09:31.830 align:middle line:90% Here is the gist of his account. 01:09:31.830 --> 01:09:34.170 align:middle line:90% It's not in his words. 01:09:34.170 --> 01:09:37.710 align:middle line:84% He and a home teaching companion were assigned 01:09:37.710 --> 01:09:39.920 align:middle line:90% to serve seven families. 01:09:39.920 --> 01:09:43.319 align:middle line:84% Almost all of them did not want visits. 01:09:43.319 --> 01:09:45.670 align:middle line:84% This may sound familiar to some of you. 01:09:45.670 --> 01:09:48.609 align:middle line:84% When the home teachers went to their apartments, 01:09:48.609 --> 01:09:50.649 align:middle line:90% they refused to answer the door. 01:09:50.649 --> 01:09:54.060 align:middle line:84% When they telephoned, they did not get an answer. 01:09:54.060 --> 01:09:57.360 align:middle line:84% When they left a message, the call was not returned. 01:09:57.360 --> 01:09:59.840 align:middle line:84% The senior companion finally resorted 01:09:59.840 --> 01:10:02.400 align:middle line:90% to a letter-writing ministry. 01:10:02.400 --> 01:10:05.870 align:middle line:84% He even began to use bright yellow envelopes 01:10:05.870 --> 01:10:09.950 align:middle line:84% in the hope of getting notice and a response. 01:10:09.950 --> 01:10:13.970 align:middle line:84% One of the seven families was a less-active single sister 01:10:13.970 --> 01:10:16.350 align:middle line:90% who had emigrated from Europe. 01:10:16.350 --> 01:10:19.010 align:middle line:90% She had two young children. 01:10:19.010 --> 01:10:20.780 align:middle line:84% After many attempts to contact her, 01:10:20.780 --> 01:10:22.590 align:middle line:90% he received a text message. 01:10:22.590 --> 01:10:25.050 align:middle line:84% She abruptly informed him that she 01:10:25.050 --> 01:10:27.840 align:middle line:84% was too busy to meet with home teachers. 01:10:27.840 --> 01:10:32.040 align:middle line:84% She had two jobs and was in the military as well. 01:10:32.040 --> 01:10:35.270 align:middle line:84% Her primary job was that of a police officer, 01:10:35.270 --> 01:10:38.660 align:middle line:84% and her career goal was to become a detective 01:10:38.660 --> 01:10:40.890 align:middle line:84% and then return to her native country 01:10:40.890 --> 01:10:43.910 align:middle line:90% and continue her work there. 01:10:43.910 --> 01:10:47.800 align:middle line:84% The home teacher never was able to visit with her in her home. 01:10:47.800 --> 01:10:50.530 align:middle line:90% He periodically texted her. 01:10:50.530 --> 01:10:53.350 align:middle line:84% Every month he sent a handwritten letter, 01:10:53.350 --> 01:10:56.800 align:middle line:84% supplemented with holiday cards for each child. 01:10:56.800 --> 01:10:59.220 align:middle line:90% He received no response. 01:10:59.220 --> 01:11:01.990 align:middle line:84% But she knew who her home teachers were, 01:11:01.990 --> 01:11:05.070 align:middle line:84% how to contact them, and that they would persist 01:11:05.070 --> 01:11:06.820 align:middle line:90% in their priesthood service. 01:11:06.820 --> 01:11:10.540 align:middle line:84% Then one day he received an urgent text from her. 01:11:10.540 --> 01:11:12.670 align:middle line:90% She desperately needed help. 01:11:12.670 --> 01:11:15.320 align:middle line:84% She did not know who the bishop was, 01:11:15.320 --> 01:11:18.320 align:middle line:84% but she did know her home teachers. 01:11:18.320 --> 01:11:20.390 align:middle line:84% In a few days, she said, she had to leave 01:11:20.390 --> 01:11:24.510 align:middle line:84% the state for a monthlong military training exercise. 01:11:24.510 --> 01:11:27.220 align:middle line:84% She could not take her children with her. 01:11:27.220 --> 01:11:30.080 align:middle line:84% Her mother, who was going to care for her children, 01:11:30.080 --> 01:11:33.350 align:middle line:84% had just flown to Europe to care for her husband, who 01:11:33.350 --> 01:11:35.830 align:middle line:90% had a medical emergency. 01:11:35.830 --> 01:11:39.030 align:middle line:84% This less-active single sister had enough money 01:11:39.030 --> 01:11:42.150 align:middle line:84% to buy a ticket to Europe for her youngest child 01:11:42.150 --> 01:11:46.090 align:middle line:84% but not for her 12-year-old son, Eric. 01:11:46.090 --> 01:11:48.900 align:middle line:84% She asked her home teacher if he could 01:11:48.900 --> 01:11:51.950 align:middle line:84% find a good LDS family to take Eric in their home 01:11:51.950 --> 01:11:53.430 align:middle line:90% for the next 30 days! 01:11:53.430 --> 01:11:59.990 align:middle line:84% The home teacher texted back that he would do his best. 01:11:59.990 --> 01:12:03.390 align:middle line:84% He then contacted his priesthood leaders. 01:12:03.390 --> 01:12:07.000 align:middle line:84% The bishop, who is the presiding high priest, 01:12:07.000 --> 01:12:12.030 align:middle line:84% gave him approval to approach members of the ward council, 01:12:12.030 --> 01:12:15.040 align:middle line:84% including the Relief Society president. 01:12:15.040 --> 01:12:17.260 align:middle line:84% The Relief Society president quickly 01:12:17.260 --> 01:12:20.250 align:middle line:84% found four good families, with children 01:12:20.250 --> 01:12:23.480 align:middle line:84% about Eric's age, who would take him into their homes 01:12:23.480 --> 01:12:25.160 align:middle line:90% for a week at a time. 01:12:25.160 --> 01:12:27.330 align:middle line:84% Over the next month, these families 01:12:27.330 --> 01:12:30.590 align:middle line:84% fed Eric, found room for him in their already crowded 01:12:30.590 --> 01:12:32.910 align:middle line:84% apartments or small homes, took him 01:12:32.910 --> 01:12:35.090 align:middle line:84% on their previously planned summer 01:12:35.090 --> 01:12:38.070 align:middle line:84% family activities, brought him to church, 01:12:38.070 --> 01:12:42.380 align:middle line:84% included him in their family home evenings, and on and on. 01:12:42.380 --> 01:12:44.280 align:middle line:84% The families with boys Eric's age 01:12:44.280 --> 01:12:48.910 align:middle line:84% included him in their deacons quorum meetings and activities. 01:12:48.910 --> 01:12:53.960 align:middle line:84% During this 30-day period, Eric was in church every Sunday 01:12:53.960 --> 01:12:56.880 align:middle line:90% for the first time in his life. 01:12:56.880 --> 01:12:59.080 align:middle line:84% After his mother came home from her training, 01:12:59.080 --> 01:13:02.050 align:middle line:84% Eric continued to attend church, usually 01:13:02.050 --> 01:13:05.430 align:middle line:84% with one of these four volunteer LDS families or others 01:13:05.430 --> 01:13:09.290 align:middle line:84% who had befriended him, including his mother's visiting 01:13:09.290 --> 01:13:10.270 align:middle line:90% teachers. 01:13:10.270 --> 01:13:12.380 align:middle line:84% In time, he was ordained a deacon 01:13:12.380 --> 01:13:16.080 align:middle line:84% and began passing the sacrament regularly. 01:13:16.080 --> 01:13:18.270 align:middle line:84% Now, let us look into Eric's future. 01:13:18.270 --> 01:13:21.690 align:middle line:84% We will not be surprised if he becomes a leader in the Church 01:13:21.690 --> 01:13:25.360 align:middle line:84% in his mother's home country when his family returns 01:13:25.360 --> 01:13:30.550 align:middle line:84% there--all because of Saints who worked together in unity, 01:13:30.550 --> 01:13:36.010 align:middle line:84% under the direction of a bishop, to serve out of charity 01:13:36.010 --> 01:13:39.790 align:middle line:84% in their hearts and with the power of the Holy Ghost. 01:13:39.790 --> 01:13:42.110 align:middle line:84% We know that charity is essential for us 01:13:42.110 --> 01:13:44.190 align:middle line:84% to be saved in the kingdom of God. 01:13:44.190 --> 01:13:47.310 align:middle line:84% Moroni wrote, "Except ye have charity ye 01:13:47.310 --> 01:13:50.650 align:middle line:84% can in nowise be saved in the kingdom of God." 01:13:50.650 --> 01:13:53.370 align:middle line:84% We also know that charity is a gift bestowed 01:13:53.370 --> 01:13:55.430 align:middle line:90% upon us after all we can do. 01:13:55.430 --> 01:13:58.890 align:middle line:84% We must "pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, 01:13:58.890 --> 01:14:01.100 align:middle line:84% that [we] may be filled with this love, which 01:14:01.100 --> 01:14:03.540 align:middle line:84% he hath bestowed upon all who are 01:14:03.540 --> 01:14:07.270 align:middle line:84% true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ." 01:14:07.270 --> 01:14:11.070 align:middle line:84% It seems to me that we receive the Holy Spirit best 01:14:11.070 --> 01:14:14.020 align:middle line:84% when we are focused on serving others. 01:14:14.020 --> 01:14:17.720 align:middle line:84% That is why we have the priesthood responsibility 01:14:17.720 --> 01:14:19.750 align:middle line:90% to serve for the Savior. 01:14:19.750 --> 01:14:23.480 align:middle line:84% When we are engaged in service to others, 01:14:23.480 --> 01:14:27.270 align:middle line:84% we think less about ourselves, and the Holy Ghost 01:14:27.270 --> 01:14:30.920 align:middle line:84% can more readily come to us and help us 01:14:30.920 --> 01:14:36.140 align:middle line:84% in our lifelong quest to have the gift of charity bestowed 01:14:36.140 --> 01:14:37.860 align:middle line:90% upon us. 01:14:37.860 --> 01:14:40.220 align:middle line:84% I bear you my testimony that the Lord has already 01:14:40.220 --> 01:14:43.680 align:middle line:84% begun a great step forward in His plan for us 01:14:43.680 --> 01:14:47.790 align:middle line:84% to become even more inspired and charitable 01:14:47.790 --> 01:14:50.620 align:middle line:84% in our priesthood ministering service. 01:14:50.620 --> 01:14:55.010 align:middle line:84% I am grateful for His love, which He so generously gives 01:14:55.010 --> 01:14:56.060 align:middle line:90% us. 01:14:56.060 --> 01:15:00.480 align:middle line:84% I so testify and express this appreciation 01:15:00.480 --> 01:15:03.970 align:middle line:84% in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:15:03.970 --> 01:15:16.020 align:middle line:90% 01:15:16.020 --> 01:15:22.350 align:middle line:84% My beloved brethren, we have heard a revelatory announcement 01:15:22.350 --> 01:15:25.670 align:middle line:84% from President Russell M. Nelson. 01:15:25.670 --> 01:15:28.740 align:middle line:84% We have heard important elaborations 01:15:28.740 --> 01:15:31.870 align:middle line:84% by Elders Christofferson and Rasband 01:15:31.870 --> 01:15:35.730 align:middle line:90% and by President Eyring. 01:15:35.730 --> 01:15:41.430 align:middle line:84% What will yet be said, including more from President Nelson, 01:15:41.430 --> 01:15:45.210 align:middle line:84% will elaborate what you, the Lord's leaders 01:15:45.210 --> 01:15:51.090 align:middle line:84% and priesthood holders, will now do in your responsibilities. 01:15:51.090 --> 01:15:55.430 align:middle line:84% To help with that, I will review some fundamental principles 01:15:55.430 --> 01:15:58.530 align:middle line:84% governing the priesthood you hold. 01:15:58.530 --> 01:16:03.100 align:middle line:84% The Melchizedek Priesthood is the divine authority God has 01:16:03.100 --> 01:16:07.720 align:middle line:84% delegated to accomplish His work "to bring to pass the ... 01:16:07.720 --> 01:16:10.200 align:middle line:90% eternal life of man." 01:16:10.200 --> 01:16:16.050 align:middle line:84% In 1829 it was conferred upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery 01:16:16.050 --> 01:16:20.410 align:middle line:84% by the Savior's Apostles Peter, James, and John. 01:16:20.410 --> 01:16:27.570 align:middle line:84% It is sacred and powerful beyond our powers to describe. 01:16:27.570 --> 01:16:30.060 align:middle line:84% The keys of the priesthood are the powers 01:16:30.060 --> 01:16:34.740 align:middle line:84% to direct the exercise of priesthood authority. 01:16:34.740 --> 01:16:39.230 align:middle line:84% Thus, when the Apostles conferred the Melchizedek 01:16:39.230 --> 01:16:42.510 align:middle line:84% Priesthood upon Joseph and Oliver, 01:16:42.510 --> 01:16:47.520 align:middle line:84% they also gave them the keys to direct its exercise. 01:16:47.520 --> 01:16:52.270 align:middle line:84% But not all priesthood keys were conferred at that time. 01:16:52.270 --> 01:16:56.310 align:middle line:84% The entire keys and knowledge necessary 01:16:56.310 --> 01:17:01.590 align:middle line:84% for this "dispensation of the fulness of times" 01:17:01.590 --> 01:17:04.460 align:middle line:90% are given "line upon line." 01:17:04.460 --> 01:17:08.560 align:middle line:84% Additional keys were given in the Kirtland Temple 01:17:08.560 --> 01:17:10.440 align:middle line:90% seven years later. 01:17:10.440 --> 01:17:14.650 align:middle line:84% These keys were given to direct priesthood authority 01:17:14.650 --> 01:17:17.000 align:middle line:84% in the additional assignments being 01:17:17.000 --> 01:17:22.150 align:middle line:84% given at that time, such as baptism for the dead. 01:17:22.150 --> 01:17:26.870 align:middle line:84% The Melchizedek Priesthood is not a status or a label. 01:17:26.870 --> 01:17:31.730 align:middle line:84% It is a divine power held in trust 01:17:31.730 --> 01:17:36.620 align:middle line:84% to use for the benefit of God's work for His children. 01:17:36.620 --> 01:17:39.590 align:middle line:84% We should always remember that men 01:17:39.590 --> 01:17:43.880 align:middle line:84% who hold the priesthood are not "the priesthood." 01:17:43.880 --> 01:17:47.630 align:middle line:84% It is not appropriate to refer to "the priesthood 01:17:47.630 --> 01:17:48.910 align:middle line:90% and the women." 01:17:48.910 --> 01:17:52.560 align:middle line:84% We should refer to "the holders of the priesthood 01:17:52.560 --> 01:17:53.590 align:middle line:90% and the women." 01:17:53.590 --> 01:17:56.470 align:middle line:90% 01:17:56.470 --> 01:18:00.230 align:middle line:84% Now let us consider what the Lord Jesus Christ expects from 01:18:00.230 --> 01:18:03.700 align:middle line:84% those who hold His priesthood--how we are to bring 01:18:03.700 --> 01:18:06.820 align:middle line:90% souls unto Him. 01:18:06.820 --> 01:18:11.090 align:middle line:84% President Joseph F. Smith taught: 01:18:11.090 --> 01:18:15.690 align:middle line:84% "It has truly been said that the Church is perfectly organized. 01:18:15.690 --> 01:18:19.430 align:middle line:84% The only trouble is that these organizations are not 01:18:19.430 --> 01:18:23.880 align:middle line:84% fully alive to the obligations that rest upon them. 01:18:23.880 --> 01:18:26.730 align:middle line:84% When they become thoroughly [acquainted] 01:18:26.730 --> 01:18:29.330 align:middle line:84% to the requirements made of them, 01:18:29.330 --> 01:18:32.980 align:middle line:84% they will fulfill their duties more faithfully, 01:18:32.980 --> 01:18:36.090 align:middle line:84% and the work of the Lord will be all the stronger 01:18:36.090 --> 01:18:39.130 align:middle line:84% and more powerful and influential in the world." 01:18:39.130 --> 01:18:41.930 align:middle line:90% 01:18:41.930 --> 01:18:44.520 align:middle line:90% President Smith also cautioned: 01:18:44.520 --> 01:18:47.050 align:middle line:84% "The God-given titles of honor ... 01:18:47.050 --> 01:18:50.270 align:middle line:84% associated with the several offices in and orders 01:18:50.270 --> 01:18:53.840 align:middle line:84% of the Holy Priesthood, are not to be used 01:18:53.840 --> 01:18:58.310 align:middle line:84% or considered as are the titles originated by man; 01:18:58.310 --> 01:19:01.480 align:middle line:84% they are not for adornment nor are they 01:19:01.480 --> 01:19:06.090 align:middle line:84% expressive of mastership, but rather of appointment 01:19:06.090 --> 01:19:09.830 align:middle line:84% to humble service in the work of the one Master 01:19:09.830 --> 01:19:13.670 align:middle line:90% whom we profess [or] serve." 01:19:13.670 --> 01:19:16.560 align:middle line:84% Continuing the quote: "We are laboring 01:19:16.560 --> 01:19:18.870 align:middle line:84% for the salvation of souls, and we 01:19:18.870 --> 01:19:23.240 align:middle line:84% should feel that this is the greatest duty devolving 01:19:23.240 --> 01:19:24.300 align:middle line:90% upon us. 01:19:24.300 --> 01:19:27.770 align:middle line:84% Therefore, we should feel willing to sacrifice 01:19:27.770 --> 01:19:31.590 align:middle line:84% everything, if need be, for the love of God, 01:19:31.590 --> 01:19:36.330 align:middle line:84% the salvation of men, and the triumph of the kingdom of God 01:19:36.330 --> 01:19:37.220 align:middle line:90% upon the earth." 01:19:37.220 --> 01:19:41.490 align:middle line:90% 01:19:41.490 --> 01:19:43.490 align:middle line:84% In the Lord's Church, the offices 01:19:43.490 --> 01:19:47.190 align:middle line:84% in the Melchizedek Priesthood have different functions. 01:19:47.190 --> 01:19:51.030 align:middle line:84% The Doctrine and Covenants refers to high priests 01:19:51.030 --> 01:19:57.600 align:middle line:84% as "standing presidents or servants over different stakes 01:19:57.600 --> 01:19:59.950 align:middle line:90% scattered abroad." 01:19:59.950 --> 01:20:08.840 align:middle line:84% It refers to elders as "standing ministers to my church." 01:20:08.840 --> 01:20:12.460 align:middle line:84% Here are other teachings on these separate functions. 01:20:12.460 --> 01:20:14.980 align:middle line:84% A high priest officiates and administers 01:20:14.980 --> 01:20:16.950 align:middle line:90% in spiritual things. 01:20:16.950 --> 01:20:21.290 align:middle line:84% Also, as President Joseph F. Smith taught, 01:20:21.290 --> 01:20:25.240 align:middle line:84% "Inasmuch as he has been ordained a high priest, 01:20:25.240 --> 01:20:27.860 align:middle line:84% [he] should feel that he is obliged ... 01:20:27.860 --> 01:20:33.300 align:middle line:84% to set an example before the old and young worthy of emulation, 01:20:33.300 --> 01:20:36.920 align:middle line:84% and to place himself in a position to be a teacher 01:20:36.920 --> 01:20:42.040 align:middle line:84% of righteousness, not only by precept but more particularly 01:20:42.040 --> 01:20:46.560 align:middle line:84% by example--giving to the younger ones the benefit 01:20:46.560 --> 01:20:50.670 align:middle line:84% of the experience of age, and thus becoming individually 01:20:50.670 --> 01:20:54.520 align:middle line:84% a power in the midst of the community in which he dwells." 01:20:54.520 --> 01:20:58.190 align:middle line:90% 01:20:58.190 --> 01:21:01.220 align:middle line:84% On the duties of an elder, Elder Bruce R. 01:21:01.220 --> 01:21:03.840 align:middle line:84% McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve taught: 01:21:03.840 --> 01:21:07.510 align:middle line:84% "An elder is a minister of the Lord Jesus Christ. ... 01:21:07.510 --> 01:21:12.220 align:middle line:84% He is commissioned to stand in the place and stead of his 01:21:12.220 --> 01:21:13.170 align:middle line:90% Master ... 01:21:13.170 --> 01:21:15.580 align:middle line:90% in ministering to his fellowmen. 01:21:15.580 --> 01:21:17.785 align:middle line:90% He is the Lord's agent." 01:21:17.785 --> 01:21:20.460 align:middle line:90% 01:21:20.460 --> 01:21:22.370 align:middle line:84% Elder McConkie criticized the idea 01:21:22.370 --> 01:21:25.170 align:middle line:90% that one is "only an elder." 01:21:25.170 --> 01:21:28.640 align:middle line:84% "Every elder in the Church holds as much priesthood 01:21:28.640 --> 01:21:31.310 align:middle line:84% as the President of the Church," he said. 01:21:31.310 --> 01:21:33.100 align:middle line:90% "What is an elder? 01:21:33.100 --> 01:21:37.220 align:middle line:84% He is a shepherd, a shepherd serving in the sheepfold 01:21:37.220 --> 01:21:39.390 align:middle line:90% of the Good Shepherd." 01:21:39.390 --> 01:21:44.250 align:middle line:84% In this important function to minister 01:21:44.250 --> 01:21:46.850 align:middle line:84% in the sheepfold of the Good Shepherd, 01:21:46.850 --> 01:21:51.530 align:middle line:84% there is no distinction between the offices of high priest 01:21:51.530 --> 01:21:55.350 align:middle line:84% and elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood. 01:21:55.350 --> 01:22:00.300 align:middle line:84% In the great section 107 of the Doctrine and Covenants, 01:22:00.300 --> 01:22:08.140 align:middle line:84% the Lord declares, "High priests after the order 01:22:08.140 --> 01:22:11.210 align:middle line:84% of the Melchizedek Priesthood have a right 01:22:11.210 --> 01:22:14.140 align:middle line:84% to officiate in their own standing, 01:22:14.140 --> 01:22:17.090 align:middle line:84% under the direction of the presidency, 01:22:17.090 --> 01:22:19.860 align:middle line:84% in administering spiritual things, 01:22:19.860 --> 01:22:26.320 align:middle line:84% and also in the office of an elder [or any office 01:22:26.320 --> 01:22:27.870 align:middle line:90% in the Aaronic Priesthood]." 01:22:27.870 --> 01:22:30.410 align:middle line:90% 01:22:30.410 --> 01:22:33.550 align:middle line:84% The most important principle for all priesthood holders 01:22:33.550 --> 01:22:37.720 align:middle line:84% is the principle taught by the Book of Mormon prophet Jacob. 01:22:37.720 --> 01:22:41.400 align:middle line:84% After he and his brother Joseph were consecrated 01:22:41.400 --> 01:22:45.690 align:middle line:84% priests and teachers of the people, he declared, 01:22:45.690 --> 01:22:49.320 align:middle line:84% "And we did magnify our office unto the Lord, 01:22:49.320 --> 01:22:53.550 align:middle line:84% taking upon us the responsibility, answering 01:22:53.550 --> 01:22:56.570 align:middle line:84% the sins of the people upon our own heads 01:22:56.570 --> 01:23:00.150 align:middle line:84% if we did not teach them the word of God 01:23:00.150 --> 01:23:03.970 align:middle line:90% with all diligence." 01:23:03.970 --> 01:23:08.740 align:middle line:84% Brethren, our responsibilities as holders of the priesthood 01:23:08.740 --> 01:23:11.090 align:middle line:90% are serious matters. 01:23:11.090 --> 01:23:14.370 align:middle line:84% Other organizations can be satisfied 01:23:14.370 --> 01:23:17.010 align:middle line:84% with worldly standards of performance 01:23:17.010 --> 01:23:20.350 align:middle line:84% in delivering their messages and performing 01:23:20.350 --> 01:23:21.770 align:middle line:90% their other functions. 01:23:21.770 --> 01:23:25.250 align:middle line:84% But we who hold the priesthood of God 01:23:25.250 --> 01:23:28.610 align:middle line:84% have the divine power that even governs entrance 01:23:28.610 --> 01:23:31.340 align:middle line:84% into the celestial kingdom of God. 01:23:31.340 --> 01:23:35.170 align:middle line:84% We have the purpose and the responsibility 01:23:35.170 --> 01:23:38.470 align:middle line:84% the Lord defined in the revealed preface 01:23:38.470 --> 01:23:40.730 align:middle line:90% to the Doctrine and Covenants. 01:23:40.730 --> 01:23:44.300 align:middle line:90% We are to proclaim to the world: 01:23:44.300 --> 01:23:46.920 align:middle line:84% "That every man might speak in the name of God 01:23:46.920 --> 01:23:50.150 align:middle line:84% the Lord, even the Savior of the world; 01:23:50.150 --> 01:23:53.900 align:middle line:84% "That faith also might increase in the earth; 01:23:53.900 --> 01:23:57.800 align:middle line:84% "That mine everlasting covenant might be established; 01:23:57.800 --> 01:24:00.000 align:middle line:84% "That the fulness of my gospel might be 01:24:00.000 --> 01:24:02.820 align:middle line:84% proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto 01:24:02.820 --> 01:24:03.930 align:middle line:90% the ends of the world." 01:24:03.930 --> 01:24:06.950 align:middle line:90% 01:24:06.950 --> 01:24:09.040 align:middle line:84% To fulfill this divine charge, we 01:24:09.040 --> 01:24:14.100 align:middle line:84% must be faithful in "magnifying" our priesthood callings 01:24:14.100 --> 01:24:16.550 align:middle line:90% and responsibilities. 01:24:16.550 --> 01:24:19.430 align:middle line:84% Elder Harold B. Lee explained what 01:24:19.430 --> 01:24:22.010 align:middle line:84% it means to magnify the priesthood: 01:24:22.010 --> 01:24:24.720 align:middle line:84% "When one becomes a holder of the priesthood, 01:24:24.720 --> 01:24:27.000 align:middle line:90% he becomes an agent of the Lord. 01:24:27.000 --> 01:24:30.200 align:middle line:84% He should think of his calling as though he 01:24:30.200 --> 01:24:32.120 align:middle line:90% were on the Lord's errand. 01:24:32.120 --> 01:24:35.190 align:middle line:84% [This] is what it means to magnify the priesthood." 01:24:35.190 --> 01:24:38.680 align:middle line:90% 01:24:38.680 --> 01:24:43.230 align:middle line:84% Therefore, brethren, if the Lord Himself were to ask you to help 01:24:43.230 --> 01:24:47.440 align:middle line:84% one of His sons or daughters--which He has done 01:24:47.440 --> 01:24:50.910 align:middle line:84% through His servants--would you do it? 01:24:50.910 --> 01:24:54.510 align:middle line:84% And if you did, would you act as His agent, 01:24:54.510 --> 01:24:58.610 align:middle line:84% "on the Lord's errand," relying on His promised help? 01:24:58.610 --> 01:25:01.190 align:middle line:90% 01:25:01.190 --> 01:25:03.910 align:middle line:84% Elder Lee had another teaching about magnifying 01:25:03.910 --> 01:25:08.870 align:middle line:84% the priesthood: "When you hold a magnifying glass over something 01:25:08.870 --> 01:25:10.940 align:middle line:84% it makes that thing look bigger than you 01:25:10.940 --> 01:25:15.440 align:middle line:84% could see it with the naked eye; that's a magnifying glass. 01:25:15.440 --> 01:25:16.220 align:middle line:90% Now, ... 01:25:16.220 --> 01:25:19.090 align:middle line:84% if anybody magnified their priesthood--that is, 01:25:19.090 --> 01:25:23.200 align:middle line:84% makes it bigger than they first thought it was and more 01:25:23.200 --> 01:25:27.830 align:middle line:84% important than anyone else thought it was--that is the way 01:25:27.830 --> 01:25:30.060 align:middle line:90% you magnify your priesthood." 01:25:30.060 --> 01:25:36.080 align:middle line:84% Here is an example of a priesthood holder magnifying 01:25:36.080 --> 01:25:38.460 align:middle line:90% his priesthood responsibility. 01:25:38.460 --> 01:25:43.980 align:middle line:84% I heard this from Elder Jeffrey D. Erekson, my companion 01:25:43.980 --> 01:25:46.430 align:middle line:90% in a stake conference in Idaho. 01:25:46.430 --> 01:25:50.830 align:middle line:84% As a young married elder, desperately poor and feeling 01:25:50.830 --> 01:25:54.090 align:middle line:84% unable to finish his last year of college, 01:25:54.090 --> 01:25:59.490 align:middle line:84% Jeffrey decided to drop out and accept an attractive job offer. 01:25:59.490 --> 01:26:02.870 align:middle line:84% A few days later his elders quorum president 01:26:02.870 --> 01:26:07.440 align:middle line:90% came to his home. 01:26:07.440 --> 01:26:10.100 align:middle line:84% "Do you understand the significance 01:26:10.100 --> 01:26:12.720 align:middle line:90% of the priesthood keys I hold?" 01:26:12.720 --> 01:26:16.030 align:middle line:84% the elders quorum president asked. 01:26:16.030 --> 01:26:19.080 align:middle line:84% When Jeffrey said he did, the president 01:26:19.080 --> 01:26:22.660 align:middle line:84% told him that since hearing of his intention 01:26:22.660 --> 01:26:26.180 align:middle line:84% to drop out of college, the Lord had tormented him 01:26:26.180 --> 01:26:30.670 align:middle line:84% during sleepless nights to give Jeffrey this message: 01:26:30.670 --> 01:26:33.660 align:middle line:84% "As your elders quorum president, 01:26:33.660 --> 01:26:37.050 align:middle line:84% I counsel you not to drop out of college. 01:26:37.050 --> 01:26:42.270 align:middle line:84% That is a message to you from the Lord." 01:26:42.270 --> 01:26:45.580 align:middle line:90% Jeffrey stayed in school. 01:26:45.580 --> 01:26:48.340 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:26:48.340 --> 01:26:51.550 align:middle line:84% Years later I met him as a successful businessman 01:26:51.550 --> 01:26:55.750 align:middle line:84% and heard him tell an audience of priesthood holders, 01:26:55.750 --> 01:27:00.020 align:middle line:84% "That [counsel] has made all the difference in my life." 01:27:00.020 --> 01:27:02.570 align:middle line:90% 01:27:02.570 --> 01:27:07.190 align:middle line:84% A priesthood holder magnified his priesthood and calling, 01:27:07.190 --> 01:27:10.280 align:middle line:84% and that made "all the difference" in the life 01:27:10.280 --> 01:27:11.280 align:middle line:90% of another child of God. 01:27:11.280 --> 01:27:15.100 align:middle line:90% 01:27:15.100 --> 01:27:17.370 align:middle line:84% Up to now, I have been speaking of the functions 01:27:17.370 --> 01:27:19.560 align:middle line:90% of the priesthood in the Church. 01:27:19.560 --> 01:27:23.530 align:middle line:84% Now I will speak of priesthood in the family. 01:27:23.530 --> 01:27:25.830 align:middle line:90% I begin with keys. 01:27:25.830 --> 01:27:29.060 align:middle line:84% The principle that priesthood authority can only 01:27:29.060 --> 01:27:32.590 align:middle line:84% be exercised under the direction of the one who 01:27:32.590 --> 01:27:38.150 align:middle line:84% holds the keys for that function is fundamental in the Church 01:27:38.150 --> 01:27:41.220 align:middle line:84% but does not apply to the exercise 01:27:41.220 --> 01:27:43.910 align:middle line:84% of priesthood authority in the family. 01:27:43.910 --> 01:27:46.560 align:middle line:84% A father who holds the priesthood 01:27:46.560 --> 01:27:50.270 align:middle line:84% presides in his family by the authority 01:27:50.270 --> 01:27:52.270 align:middle line:90% of the priesthood he holds. 01:27:52.270 --> 01:27:55.620 align:middle line:84% He has no need to have the direction or approval 01:27:55.620 --> 01:27:58.790 align:middle line:84% of priesthood keys in order to counsel 01:27:58.790 --> 01:28:02.500 align:middle line:84% the members of his family, hold family meetings, 01:28:02.500 --> 01:28:06.320 align:middle line:84% give priesthood blessings to his wife and children, 01:28:06.320 --> 01:28:11.340 align:middle line:84% or to give healing blessings to family members or others. 01:28:11.340 --> 01:28:16.540 align:middle line:84% If fathers would magnify their priesthood in their own family, 01:28:16.540 --> 01:28:20.480 align:middle line:84% it would further the mission of the Church as much as anything 01:28:20.480 --> 01:28:23.430 align:middle line:90% else they might do. 01:28:23.430 --> 01:28:25.990 align:middle line:84% Fathers who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood 01:28:25.990 --> 01:28:28.300 align:middle line:84% should keep the commandments so they 01:28:28.300 --> 01:28:32.790 align:middle line:84% will have the power of the priesthood to give blessings 01:28:32.790 --> 01:28:34.650 align:middle line:90% to their family members. 01:28:34.650 --> 01:28:39.930 align:middle line:84% Fathers should also cultivate loving family relationships 01:28:39.930 --> 01:28:43.180 align:middle line:84% so that family members will want to ask 01:28:43.180 --> 01:28:45.700 align:middle line:90% their fathers for blessings. 01:28:45.700 --> 01:28:50.440 align:middle line:84% And parents should encourage more priesthood blessings 01:28:50.440 --> 01:28:53.330 align:middle line:90% in the family. 01:28:53.330 --> 01:28:58.010 align:middle line:84% Fathers, function as "equal partners" of your wives, 01:28:58.010 --> 01:29:01.520 align:middle line:84% as the family proclamation teaches. 01:29:01.520 --> 01:29:05.720 align:middle line:84% And fathers, when you are privileged to exercise 01:29:05.720 --> 01:29:10.370 align:middle line:84% the power and influence of your priesthood authority, 01:29:10.370 --> 01:29:14.990 align:middle line:84% do so "by persuasion, by long-suffering, 01:29:14.990 --> 01:29:21.210 align:middle line:84% by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned." 01:29:21.210 --> 01:29:23.250 align:middle line:84% That high standard for the exercise 01:29:23.250 --> 01:29:27.270 align:middle line:84% of priesthood authority is most important in the family. 01:29:27.270 --> 01:29:29.820 align:middle line:90% 01:29:29.820 --> 01:29:33.100 align:middle line:84% President Harold B. Lee gave this promise just after he 01:29:33.100 --> 01:29:39.090 align:middle line:84% became President of the Church: "Never is the power 01:29:39.090 --> 01:29:40.830 align:middle line:84% of the priesthood, which you hold, 01:29:40.830 --> 01:29:44.880 align:middle line:84% more wonderful than when there is a crisis in your home, 01:29:44.880 --> 01:29:49.325 align:middle line:84% a serious illness, or some great decision that has to be made. 01:29:49.325 --> 01:29:50.200 align:middle line:90% ... 01:29:50.200 --> 01:29:53.320 align:middle line:84% Vested in the power of the priesthood, 01:29:53.320 --> 01:29:56.110 align:middle line:84% which is the power of Almighty God, 01:29:56.110 --> 01:30:01.020 align:middle line:84% is the power to perform miracles if the Lord wills it so, 01:30:01.020 --> 01:30:04.560 align:middle line:84% but in order for us to use that priesthood, 01:30:04.560 --> 01:30:08.390 align:middle line:84% we must be worthy to exercise it. 01:30:08.390 --> 01:30:11.940 align:middle line:84% A failure to understand this principle 01:30:11.940 --> 01:30:15.910 align:middle line:84% is a failure to receive the blessings of holding 01:30:15.910 --> 01:30:17.080 align:middle line:90% that great priesthood." 01:30:17.080 --> 01:30:20.900 align:middle line:90% 01:30:20.900 --> 01:30:23.270 align:middle line:84% My beloved brethren, the magnifying 01:30:23.270 --> 01:30:25.220 align:middle line:84% of the holy priesthood you hold is 01:30:25.220 --> 01:30:29.260 align:middle line:84% vital to the work of the Lord in your families 01:30:29.260 --> 01:30:32.720 align:middle line:90% and in your Church callings. 01:30:32.720 --> 01:30:36.820 align:middle line:84% I testify of Him whose priesthood it is. 01:30:36.820 --> 01:30:41.940 align:middle line:84% Through His atoning suffering and sacrifice and Resurrection, 01:30:41.940 --> 01:30:46.230 align:middle line:84% all men and women have the assurance of immortality 01:30:46.230 --> 01:30:49.940 align:middle line:84% and the opportunity for eternal life. 01:30:49.940 --> 01:30:54.570 align:middle line:84% Each of us should be faithful and diligent in doing 01:30:54.570 --> 01:30:59.770 align:middle line:84% our part in this great work of God, our Eternal Father. 01:30:59.770 --> 01:31:03.340 align:middle line:84% In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:31:03.340 --> 01:31:16.110 align:middle line:90% 01:31:16.110 --> 01:31:20.480 align:middle line:84% Brethren, we are grateful for your attendance this evening. 01:31:20.480 --> 01:31:24.620 align:middle line:84% We likewise thank the choir for the inspiring music 01:31:24.620 --> 01:31:27.100 align:middle line:84% they have provided, and acknowledge 01:31:27.100 --> 01:31:31.500 align:middle line:84% all those who have assisted in preparing for these proceedings 01:31:31.500 --> 01:31:32.830 align:middle line:90% in any way. 01:31:32.830 --> 01:31:36.420 align:middle line:84% The concluding speaker for this session 01:31:36.420 --> 01:31:41.430 align:middle line:84% will be President Russell M. Nelson, followed by the closing 01:31:41.430 --> 01:31:45.000 align:middle line:90% hymn "Rise Up, O Men of God." 01:31:45.000 --> 01:31:50.240 align:middle line:84% The benediction will then be offered by Elder K. Brett 01:31:50.240 --> 01:31:52.637 align:middle line:90% Nattress of the Seventy. 01:31:52.637 --> 01:31:53.136 align:middle line:90% President. 01:31:53.136 --> 01:32:00.460 align:middle line:90% 01:32:00.460 --> 01:32:03.960 align:middle line:84% My beloved brethren, thank you for your devotion 01:32:03.960 --> 01:32:05.950 align:middle line:90% to the Lord and His holy work. 01:32:05.950 --> 01:32:11.000 align:middle line:84% It is truly a joy to be with you. 01:32:11.000 --> 01:32:14.650 align:middle line:84% As a new First Presidency, we thank you for your prayers, 01:32:14.650 --> 01:32:17.570 align:middle line:90% for your sustaining efforts. 01:32:17.570 --> 01:32:21.120 align:middle line:84% We are grateful for your lives and for your service 01:32:21.120 --> 01:32:22.750 align:middle line:90% to the Lord. 01:32:22.750 --> 01:32:26.050 align:middle line:84% Your devotion to duty and your selfless service 01:32:26.050 --> 01:32:27.960 align:middle line:84% are just as important in your callings 01:32:27.960 --> 01:32:29.665 align:middle line:90% as ours are in our callings. 01:32:29.665 --> 01:32:32.360 align:middle line:90% 01:32:32.360 --> 01:32:34.339 align:middle line:84% Through a lifetime of service in this Church, 01:32:34.339 --> 01:32:35.880 align:middle line:84% I have learned that it really doesn't 01:32:35.880 --> 01:32:38.560 align:middle line:90% matter where one serves. 01:32:38.560 --> 01:32:43.025 align:middle line:84% What the Lord cares about is how one serves. 01:32:43.025 --> 01:32:46.170 align:middle line:90% 01:32:46.170 --> 01:32:50.320 align:middle line:84% I express deep gratitude for President Thomas S. Monson, 01:32:50.320 --> 01:32:56.270 align:middle line:84% who was an example to me for more than 50 years, 01:32:56.270 --> 01:32:58.380 align:middle line:84% and for his counselors, President Henry B. 01:32:58.380 --> 01:33:03.020 align:middle line:84% Eyring and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. 01:33:03.020 --> 01:33:06.240 align:middle line:84% I express profound admiration for them. 01:33:06.240 --> 01:33:10.840 align:middle line:84% I commend them for their service to the Lord and His prophets. 01:33:10.840 --> 01:33:15.500 align:middle line:84% Both of these devoted servants have received new assignments. 01:33:15.500 --> 01:33:19.410 align:middle line:84% They continue to serve with vigor and commitment. 01:33:19.410 --> 01:33:21.560 align:middle line:90% I honor and love them both. 01:33:21.560 --> 01:33:26.510 align:middle line:84% It is a remarkable blessing to serve 01:33:26.510 --> 01:33:29.270 align:middle line:84% in the Lord's true and living Church with His authority 01:33:29.270 --> 01:33:30.670 align:middle line:90% and power. 01:33:30.670 --> 01:33:34.100 align:middle line:84% The restoration of the priesthood of God, 01:33:34.100 --> 01:33:37.000 align:middle line:84% including the keys of the priesthood, 01:33:37.000 --> 01:33:40.180 align:middle line:84% opens to worthy Latter-day Saints the greatest 01:33:40.180 --> 01:33:42.950 align:middle line:90% of all spiritual blessings. 01:33:42.950 --> 01:33:49.090 align:middle line:84% We see those blessings flowing to women, men, and children 01:33:49.090 --> 01:33:52.250 align:middle line:90% throughout the world. 01:33:52.250 --> 01:33:57.120 align:middle line:84% We see faithful women who understand the power inherent 01:33:57.120 --> 01:34:02.870 align:middle line:84% in their callings and in their work in the endowment 01:34:02.870 --> 01:34:05.070 align:middle line:90% and other temple ordinances. 01:34:05.070 --> 01:34:09.210 align:middle line:84% These women know how to call upon the powers of heaven 01:34:09.210 --> 01:34:14.230 align:middle line:84% to protect and strengthen their husbands, children, and others 01:34:14.230 --> 01:34:15.450 align:middle line:90% they love. 01:34:15.450 --> 01:34:18.870 align:middle line:84% These are spiritually strong women 01:34:18.870 --> 01:34:24.500 align:middle line:84% who lead, teach, and minister fearlessly in their callings 01:34:24.500 --> 01:34:27.510 align:middle line:84% with the power and authority of God! 01:34:27.510 --> 01:34:30.150 align:middle line:90% How thankful I am for them! 01:34:30.150 --> 01:34:32.840 align:middle line:90% 01:34:32.840 --> 01:34:36.220 align:middle line:84% Likewise, we see faithful men who live up to their privileges 01:34:36.220 --> 01:34:38.240 align:middle line:90% as bearers of the priesthood. 01:34:38.240 --> 01:34:42.910 align:middle line:84% They lead and serve by sacrifice in the Lord's way with love, 01:34:42.910 --> 01:34:45.000 align:middle line:90% kindness, and patience. 01:34:45.000 --> 01:34:50.430 align:middle line:84% They bless, guide, protect, and strengthen others 01:34:50.430 --> 01:34:53.760 align:middle line:84% by the power of the priesthood they hold. 01:34:53.760 --> 01:34:56.290 align:middle line:84% They bring miracles to those they 01:34:56.290 --> 01:35:01.160 align:middle line:84% serve while they keep their own marriages and families safe. 01:35:01.160 --> 01:35:06.400 align:middle line:84% They shun evil and are mighty elders in Israel. 01:35:06.400 --> 01:35:08.820 align:middle line:90% I am most thankful for them! 01:35:08.820 --> 01:35:11.530 align:middle line:90% 01:35:11.530 --> 01:35:14.680 align:middle line:90% Now, may I voice a concern? 01:35:14.680 --> 01:35:19.850 align:middle line:84% It is this: Too many of our brothers and sisters 01:35:19.850 --> 01:35:23.020 align:middle line:84% do not fully understand the concept of priesthood power 01:35:23.020 --> 01:35:24.650 align:middle line:90% and authority. 01:35:24.650 --> 01:35:27.590 align:middle line:84% They act as though they would rather satisfy 01:35:27.590 --> 01:35:31.350 align:middle line:84% their own selfish desires and appetites 01:35:31.350 --> 01:35:36.490 align:middle line:84% than use the power of God to bless His children. 01:35:36.490 --> 01:35:38.970 align:middle line:84% I fear that too many of our brothers and sisters 01:35:38.970 --> 01:35:43.850 align:middle line:84% do not grasp the privileges that could be theirs. 01:35:43.850 --> 01:35:45.490 align:middle line:84% Some of our brethren, for example, 01:35:45.490 --> 01:35:48.040 align:middle line:84% act like they do not understand what the priesthood is 01:35:48.040 --> 01:35:50.690 align:middle line:90% and what it enables them to do. 01:35:50.690 --> 01:35:53.165 align:middle line:84% Let me give you some specific examples. 01:35:53.165 --> 01:35:55.780 align:middle line:90% 01:35:55.780 --> 01:35:58.240 align:middle line:84% Not long ago, I attended a sacrament meeting 01:35:58.240 --> 01:36:00.110 align:middle line:84% in which a new baby was to be given 01:36:00.110 --> 01:36:02.600 align:middle line:90% a name and a father's blessing. 01:36:02.600 --> 01:36:07.440 align:middle line:84% The young father held his precious infant in his arms, 01:36:07.440 --> 01:36:15.180 align:middle line:84% gave her a name, and then offered a beautiful prayer. 01:36:15.180 --> 01:36:19.720 align:middle line:84% But he did not give that child a blessing. 01:36:19.720 --> 01:36:25.760 align:middle line:84% That sweet baby girl got a name but no blessing! 01:36:25.760 --> 01:36:29.460 align:middle line:84% That dear elder did not know the difference between a prayer 01:36:29.460 --> 01:36:31.530 align:middle line:90% and a priesthood blessing. 01:36:31.530 --> 01:36:34.540 align:middle line:84% With his priesthood authority and power, 01:36:34.540 --> 01:36:39.010 align:middle line:84% he could have blessed his infant, but he did not. 01:36:39.010 --> 01:36:44.250 align:middle line:84% I thought, "What a missed opportunity!" 01:36:44.250 --> 01:36:46.760 align:middle line:90% Let me cite other examples. 01:36:46.760 --> 01:36:50.830 align:middle line:84% We know of brethren who set sisters apart as Primary, 01:36:50.830 --> 01:36:55.360 align:middle line:84% Young Women, or Relief Society leaders and teachers but fail 01:36:55.360 --> 01:36:59.790 align:middle line:84% to bless them--to bless them with the power to fulfill 01:36:59.790 --> 01:37:01.460 align:middle line:90% their callings. 01:37:01.460 --> 01:37:04.445 align:middle line:84% They give only admonitions and instructions. 01:37:04.445 --> 01:37:07.130 align:middle line:90% 01:37:07.130 --> 01:37:09.240 align:middle line:84% We see a worthy father who fails to give 01:37:09.240 --> 01:37:12.540 align:middle line:84% his wife and his children priesthood blessings when 01:37:12.540 --> 01:37:15.200 align:middle line:90% that is exactly what they need. 01:37:15.200 --> 01:37:18.680 align:middle line:84% Priesthood power has been restored to this earth, 01:37:18.680 --> 01:37:21.800 align:middle line:84% and yet far too many brothers and sisters 01:37:21.800 --> 01:37:28.140 align:middle line:84% go through terrible trials, insatiable trials in life, 01:37:28.140 --> 01:37:32.720 align:middle line:84% without ever receiving a true priesthood blessing. 01:37:32.720 --> 01:37:34.700 align:middle line:90% What a tragedy! 01:37:34.700 --> 01:37:38.980 align:middle line:84% That's a tragedy that we can eliminate. 01:37:38.980 --> 01:37:41.530 align:middle line:84% Brethren, we hold the holy priesthood of God! 01:37:41.530 --> 01:37:44.950 align:middle line:84% We have His authority to bless His people. 01:37:44.950 --> 01:37:48.000 align:middle line:84% Just think of the remarkable assurance 01:37:48.000 --> 01:37:52.890 align:middle line:84% the Lord gave us when He said, "Whomsoever you bless 01:37:52.890 --> 01:37:54.000 align:middle line:90% I will bless." 01:37:54.000 --> 01:37:58.540 align:middle line:84% It is our privilege to act in the name of Jesus Christ 01:37:58.540 --> 01:38:02.910 align:middle line:84% to bless God's children according to His will for them. 01:38:02.910 --> 01:38:07.330 align:middle line:84% Stake presidents and bishops, please ensure that every member 01:38:07.330 --> 01:38:11.610 align:middle line:84% of the quorums within your stewardship understands how 01:38:11.610 --> 01:38:14.880 align:middle line:84% to give a priesthood blessing--including 01:38:14.880 --> 01:38:18.040 align:middle line:84% the personal worthiness and spiritual preparation required 01:38:18.040 --> 01:38:20.940 align:middle line:84% to call fully upon the power of God. 01:38:20.940 --> 01:38:23.550 align:middle line:90% 01:38:23.550 --> 01:38:25.480 align:middle line:84% To all brethren holding the priesthood, 01:38:25.480 --> 01:38:29.300 align:middle line:84% I invite you to inspire members to keep their covenants, 01:38:29.300 --> 01:38:32.840 align:middle line:84% fast and pray, study the scriptures, 01:38:32.840 --> 01:38:36.920 align:middle line:84% worship in the temple, and serve with faith 01:38:36.920 --> 01:38:39.550 align:middle line:90% as men and women of God. 01:38:39.550 --> 01:38:43.520 align:middle line:84% We can help all to see with the eye of faith 01:38:43.520 --> 01:38:46.230 align:middle line:84% that obedience and righteousness will draw them 01:38:46.230 --> 01:38:49.250 align:middle line:84% closer to Jesus Christ, allow them 01:38:49.250 --> 01:38:52.100 align:middle line:84% to enjoy the companionship of the Holy Ghost, 01:38:52.100 --> 01:38:56.910 align:middle line:90% and experience joy in life! 01:38:56.910 --> 01:38:59.550 align:middle line:84% A hallmark of the Lord's true and living Church 01:38:59.550 --> 01:39:03.680 align:middle line:84% will always be an organized, directed effort to minister 01:39:03.680 --> 01:39:08.530 align:middle line:84% to individual children of God and their families. 01:39:08.530 --> 01:39:11.780 align:middle line:84% Because it is His Church, we as His servants 01:39:11.780 --> 01:39:16.840 align:middle line:84% will minister to the one, just as He did. 01:39:16.840 --> 01:39:22.080 align:middle line:84% We will minister in His name, with His power and authority, 01:39:22.080 --> 01:39:23.715 align:middle line:90% and with His loving kindness. 01:39:23.715 --> 01:39:26.390 align:middle line:90% 01:39:26.390 --> 01:39:30.340 align:middle line:84% An experience I had more than 60 years ago in Boston 01:39:30.340 --> 01:39:34.130 align:middle line:84% taught me just how powerful the privilege of ministering 01:39:34.130 --> 01:39:37.770 align:middle line:90% one-on-one can be. 01:39:37.770 --> 01:39:41.220 align:middle line:84% I was then a resident surgeon at the Massachusetts General 01:39:41.220 --> 01:39:46.540 align:middle line:84% Hospital--on duty every day, every other night, 01:39:46.540 --> 01:39:48.870 align:middle line:90% and every other weekend. 01:39:48.870 --> 01:39:54.050 align:middle line:84% I had limited time for my wife, our four children, 01:39:54.050 --> 01:39:56.300 align:middle line:90% and Church activity. 01:39:56.300 --> 01:39:58.720 align:middle line:84% Nonetheless, our branch president 01:39:58.720 --> 01:40:02.500 align:middle line:84% assigned me to visit the home of Wilbur and Leonora Cox 01:40:02.500 --> 01:40:05.450 align:middle line:84% with the hope that Brother Cox might come back 01:40:05.450 --> 01:40:07.440 align:middle line:90% into activity in the Church. 01:40:07.440 --> 01:40:10.510 align:middle line:84% He and Leonora had been sealed in the temple. 01:40:10.510 --> 01:40:14.530 align:middle line:84% Yet Wilbur had not participated for many years. 01:40:14.530 --> 01:40:17.350 align:middle line:90% 01:40:17.350 --> 01:40:19.840 align:middle line:84% My companion and I went to their home. 01:40:19.840 --> 01:40:24.550 align:middle line:84% As we entered, Sister Cox welcomed us warmly, 01:40:24.550 --> 01:40:28.040 align:middle line:84% but Brother Cox abruptly walked into another room 01:40:28.040 --> 01:40:31.470 align:middle line:90% and closed the door. 01:40:31.470 --> 01:40:35.220 align:middle line:84% I went to the closed door and knocked. 01:40:35.220 --> 01:40:39.730 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:40:39.730 --> 01:40:43.190 align:middle line:84% After a moment, I heard a muffled, "Come in." 01:40:43.190 --> 01:40:46.630 align:middle line:90% 01:40:46.630 --> 01:40:49.180 align:middle line:84% I opened the door to find Brother Cox sitting 01:40:49.180 --> 01:40:52.440 align:middle line:84% beside an array of amateur radio equipment. 01:40:52.440 --> 01:40:56.840 align:middle line:84% In that small room, he lit up a cigar. 01:40:56.840 --> 01:41:02.200 align:middle line:84% Clearly, my visit was not all that welcome. 01:41:02.200 --> 01:41:04.080 align:middle line:84% I gazed about the room with wonderment 01:41:04.080 --> 01:41:06.780 align:middle line:84% and said, "Brother Cox, I have always 01:41:06.780 --> 01:41:10.090 align:middle line:84% wanted to learn more about amateur radio work. 01:41:10.090 --> 01:41:12.970 align:middle line:84% Would you be willing to teach me about it? 01:41:12.970 --> 01:41:16.720 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry I can't stay any longer tonight, 01:41:16.720 --> 01:41:21.050 align:middle line:84% but could I come back another time?" 01:41:21.050 --> 01:41:24.010 align:middle line:84% He hesitated for a moment and then said, "Yes." 01:41:24.010 --> 01:41:27.440 align:middle line:90% 01:41:27.440 --> 01:41:31.030 align:middle line:84% That was the beginning of what became a wonderful friendship. 01:41:31.030 --> 01:41:34.740 align:middle line:90% I returned and he taught me. 01:41:34.740 --> 01:41:38.410 align:middle line:90% I began to love and respect him. 01:41:38.410 --> 01:41:43.210 align:middle line:84% Through subsequent visits, the greatness of this man emerged. 01:41:43.210 --> 01:41:46.870 align:middle line:84% We became very good friends, as did 01:41:46.870 --> 01:41:49.430 align:middle line:90% our dear eternal companions. 01:41:49.430 --> 01:41:54.110 align:middle line:84% Then, with the passage of time, our family moved away. 01:41:54.110 --> 01:41:59.910 align:middle line:84% Local leaders continued to nurture the Cox family. 01:41:59.910 --> 01:42:03.170 align:middle line:84% About eight years after that first visit, 01:42:03.170 --> 01:42:05.345 align:middle line:90% the Boston Stake was created. 01:42:05.345 --> 01:42:07.930 align:middle line:90% 01:42:07.930 --> 01:42:12.700 align:middle line:84% Can you guess who the first stake president was? 01:42:12.700 --> 01:42:13.280 align:middle line:90% Yes! 01:42:13.280 --> 01:42:16.520 align:middle line:90% Brother Cox! 01:42:16.520 --> 01:42:20.180 align:middle line:84% During subsequent years, he also served as a mission president 01:42:20.180 --> 01:42:21.630 align:middle line:90% and a temple president. 01:42:21.630 --> 01:42:24.980 align:middle line:90% 01:42:24.980 --> 01:42:28.790 align:middle line:84% Years later, I, as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, 01:42:28.790 --> 01:42:33.260 align:middle line:84% was assigned to create a new stake in Sanpete County, Utah. 01:42:33.260 --> 01:42:37.250 align:middle line:84% During the usual interviews, I was pleasantly surprised 01:42:37.250 --> 01:42:40.135 align:middle line:84% to encounter again my dear friend Brother Cox! 01:42:40.135 --> 01:42:42.980 align:middle line:90% 01:42:42.980 --> 01:42:47.365 align:middle line:84% I felt impressed to call him as the new stake patriarch. 01:42:47.365 --> 01:42:49.950 align:middle line:90% 01:42:49.950 --> 01:42:58.280 align:middle line:84% After I ordained him, we embraced each other and wept. 01:42:58.280 --> 01:43:01.050 align:middle line:84% People in the room were wondering why these two 01:43:01.050 --> 01:43:02.160 align:middle line:90% grown men were crying. 01:43:02.160 --> 01:43:04.771 align:middle line:90% 01:43:04.771 --> 01:43:05.270 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:43:05.270 --> 01:43:06.030 align:middle line:90% But we knew. 01:43:06.030 --> 01:43:08.210 align:middle line:90% And Sister Cox knew. 01:43:08.210 --> 01:43:11.510 align:middle line:90% Ours were tears of joy! 01:43:11.510 --> 01:43:15.440 align:middle line:84% We silently remembered the incredible journey 01:43:15.440 --> 01:43:19.610 align:middle line:84% of love and repentance that began more than 30 years ago, 01:43:19.610 --> 01:43:24.190 align:middle line:90% one night in their home. 01:43:24.190 --> 01:43:26.270 align:middle line:90% The account doesn't end there. 01:43:26.270 --> 01:43:28.640 align:middle line:84% Brother and Sister Cox's family grew 01:43:28.640 --> 01:43:33.070 align:middle line:84% to include 3 children, 20 grandchildren, and 54 01:43:33.070 --> 01:43:34.780 align:middle line:90% great-grandchildren. 01:43:34.780 --> 01:43:38.760 align:middle line:84% Add to that their impact on hundreds of missionaries, 01:43:38.760 --> 01:43:42.500 align:middle line:84% on thousands more in the temple, and on hundreds more 01:43:42.500 --> 01:43:44.380 align:middle line:84% who received patriarchal blessings 01:43:44.380 --> 01:43:46.550 align:middle line:90% at the hands of Wilbur Cox. 01:43:46.550 --> 01:43:50.220 align:middle line:84% His and Leonora's influence will continue to ripple 01:43:50.220 --> 01:43:55.640 align:middle line:84% through many generations throughout the world. 01:43:55.640 --> 01:43:59.890 align:middle line:84% Experiences such as this with Wilbur and Leonora Cox occur 01:43:59.890 --> 01:44:06.130 align:middle line:84% every week--hopefully, every day--within this Church. 01:44:06.130 --> 01:44:08.700 align:middle line:84% Dedicated servants of the Lord Jesus Christ 01:44:08.700 --> 01:44:16.090 align:middle line:84% carry out His work with His power and authority. 01:44:16.090 --> 01:44:18.520 align:middle line:84% Brethren, there are doors we can open, 01:44:18.520 --> 01:44:22.240 align:middle line:84% priesthood blessings we can give, hearts we can heal, 01:44:22.240 --> 01:44:26.210 align:middle line:84% burdens we can lift, testimonies we can strengthen, 01:44:26.210 --> 01:44:30.730 align:middle line:84% lives we can save, and joy we can bring into the homes 01:44:30.730 --> 01:44:34.660 align:middle line:84% of the Latter-day Saints--all because we hold the priesthood 01:44:34.660 --> 01:44:37.390 align:middle line:90% of God. 01:44:37.390 --> 01:44:40.320 align:middle line:84% We are the men who have been "called and prepared 01:44:40.320 --> 01:44:42.290 align:middle line:84% from the foundation of the world according 01:44:42.290 --> 01:44:46.650 align:middle line:84% to the foreknowledge of God, on account of [our] exceeding 01:44:46.650 --> 01:44:51.050 align:middle line:90% faith," to do this work. 01:44:51.050 --> 01:44:55.510 align:middle line:84% Tonight I invite you literally to rise up 01:44:55.510 --> 01:44:59.750 align:middle line:84% with me in our great eternal brotherhood. 01:44:59.750 --> 01:45:03.140 align:middle line:84% When I name your priesthood office, 01:45:03.140 --> 01:45:07.310 align:middle line:84% please stand and remain standing. 01:45:07.310 --> 01:45:09.230 align:middle line:90% Deacons, please arise! 01:45:09.230 --> 01:45:14.160 align:middle line:90% 01:45:14.160 --> 01:45:15.060 align:middle line:90% Teachers, arise! 01:45:15.060 --> 01:45:18.845 align:middle line:90% 01:45:18.845 --> 01:45:19.345 align:middle line:90% Priests! 01:45:19.345 --> 01:45:24.750 align:middle line:90% 01:45:24.750 --> 01:45:25.250 align:middle line:90% Bishops! 01:45:25.250 --> 01:45:29.085 align:middle line:90% 01:45:29.085 --> 01:45:29.585 align:middle line:90% Elders! 01:45:29.585 --> 01:45:33.800 align:middle line:90% 01:45:33.800 --> 01:45:34.480 align:middle line:90% High priests! 01:45:34.480 --> 01:45:37.650 align:middle line:90% 01:45:37.650 --> 01:45:38.150 align:middle line:90% Patriarchs! 01:45:38.150 --> 01:45:40.865 align:middle line:90% 01:45:40.865 --> 01:45:41.365 align:middle line:90% Seventies! 01:45:41.365 --> 01:45:44.655 align:middle line:90% 01:45:44.655 --> 01:45:45.155 align:middle line:90% Apostles! 01:45:45.155 --> 01:45:48.530 align:middle line:90% 01:45:48.530 --> 01:45:50.990 align:middle line:84% Now, brethren, will you please remain standing 01:45:50.990 --> 01:45:54.610 align:middle line:84% and join with our chorus in singing all three verses 01:45:54.610 --> 01:45:58.310 align:middle line:90% of "Rise Up, O Men of God"? 01:45:58.310 --> 01:46:00.680 align:middle line:84% While you sing, think of your duty 01:46:00.680 --> 01:46:03.830 align:middle line:84% as God's mighty army to help prepare 01:46:03.830 --> 01:46:06.700 align:middle line:84% the world for the Second Coming of the Lord. 01:46:06.700 --> 01:46:08.750 align:middle line:90% This is our charge. 01:46:08.750 --> 01:46:10.870 align:middle line:90% This is our privilege. 01:46:10.870 --> 01:46:14.995 align:middle line:84% I so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:46:14.995 --> 01:46:19.850 align:middle line:90% 01:46:19.850 --> 01:48:06.300 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING--"RISE UP, O MEN OF GOD"] 01:48:06.300 --> 01:48:14.766 align:middle line:90% 01:48:14.766 --> 01:48:19.670 align:middle line:84% Our Father in Heaven, we stand before Thee 01:48:19.670 --> 01:48:26.990 align:middle line:84% with gratitude in our hearts for living prophets and apostles, 01:48:26.990 --> 01:48:32.410 align:middle line:84% for our beloved prophet, President Russell M. Nelson. 01:48:32.410 --> 01:48:38.900 align:middle line:84% Wilt Thou bless and continually sustain him. 01:48:38.900 --> 01:48:44.230 align:middle line:84% We are grateful for Thine Only Begotten Son, 01:48:44.230 --> 01:48:48.060 align:middle line:90% for His infinite Atonement. 01:48:48.060 --> 01:48:52.710 align:middle line:84% We pray that we might always remember Him, 01:48:52.710 --> 01:48:55.930 align:middle line:84% that we will follow His example of love and service. 01:48:55.930 --> 01:49:01.620 align:middle line:84% That we will minister to all of Thy children 01:49:01.620 --> 01:49:04.490 align:middle line:84% with love and devotion is our prayer 01:49:04.490 --> 01:49:08.420 align:middle line:84% in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 01:49:08.420 --> 01:51:35.616 align:middle line:90%