Saturday 1st session
Baptism is essential, so we have a duty to do missionary work. Missionaries do a great work, teaching others to pray and about the Holy Ghost. People get excited about reading the scriptures! Parents' wishes are respected.
Full time missionary work strengthens you in your testimony and blesses your family. It impacts the rest of your life. You don't know the full effect of your work - you may be helping bring salvation to future generations.
How to help? Understand the importance.
4 part of missionary work- finding investigators, teaching, baptizing, fellowshipping.
Prepare children, prepare yourself for missionary service- invite others to FHE or other activities (Family History, etc). Seek opportunities. Send letters to missionaries.
OUr work can affect the whole church!
Neil L Anderson
There are days when we have trials or doubts. It's ok. We don't know everything, but we know enough to follow the Lord. Nephi said he does no know all things but he know God loves His children.
We know that also. It is enough to strengthen us, to do our best, to follow Him.
Faith is not just a feeling; it is a decision. We must choose to have faith. A father's choice of faith in a difficult time can bless the next generation.
Faith and fear cannot co-exist. Jesus said, Be not afraid, only believe. We have enormous sources of strength.
When we exercise faith, we come to know what we already knew.
When Jesus comes, he will make everything alright.
Come Ye Children of the Lord
Marcos A Aidukaitis of the seventyHis father was baptized in 1940. The baptism was beautiful. From missionary- "No credit to me- he converted himself."
His father passed away 30 years ago, but he will honor his name forever and also his mother.
Read the Book of Mormon. It is promised that a great spirit will come into your life. Live the commandments and endure to the end. He feels sad that people refuse to investigate the book. It's as if spoiled children refuse to try anything new.
1. Read and ponder the book. 2. Pray to know that it is true and Joseph Smith is a true prophet. 3. Act on the answer you receive.
It is personal. Everyone must do these things for themselves.
Dallin H Oaks
There are trials on every hand. To recover and recuperate from weekly troubles, attend and partake of the sacarament every sabbath day.
The Gift of the Holy Ghost is the greatest gift we can receive.
Sacrament meeting should always focus on the Savior. These meeting must be reverent.
Plan and conduct meetings humbly and prayerfully. The time before sacarament metting begins is not time for conversation, it is for meditation and prayer, to prepare for the sacrament.
Each individual bears responsibility for the spirit in sacrament meeting.
Dress appropriately to administer the sacrament. Speak slowly and distinctly the blessing. It is sacred. Be worthy to officiate in the ordinance. The bishop can temporarily revoke the privilege. Jeffrey R Holland suggets a white shirt be worn.
Concentrate on worship during the sacrament. It's not a time for whispered conversations or texting. Do not violate covenants in the very meeting where you should be renewing those covenants.
Join in singing. Especially the sacrament hymn. Carefully plan the hymns.
Amusement, laughter, light mindedness are out of place in sacrament meeting.
Sacrament is not generally administered at reunions, etc., because the church is a House of Order.
Always have His spirit to be with you.
Do what is right
Dieter F. UchtdorfHe lived in fear and hunger during the war in 1944. They took the train. His mother left to search for food, came back and the train was gone. She searched and prayed. Her faith and hope overcame her despair. She found them.
Hope has infinite power. It is one of the legs of the 3 legged stool along with faith and charity. The scriptures were written that we might have hope.
Hope of salvation is a protective helmet. Moroni still had hope after seeing his whole people destroyed. Why is there despair? There is opposition in all things. Despair can limit us. It kills ambition and dampens the soul.
But hope is the ray of sunlight. Put your hope in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. It is the hope that transcends trivial things. It is manifested in patient perseverance. Glorify it through good works and happiness. If we could only look beyond mortality to our ultimate future, because of the Savior, we can reside forever in peace and know ultimate joy.
We cannot imagine the things God has prepared for us. There are times the darkness seems unbearable, but keep hoping through the gospel with assurance that prayers are answered. All things work together for our good.
When hope is fulfilled, it leads to greater hope. Elder Uchtdorf has experienced it.
Our membership in the church offers bright hope, strengthens faith, diminishes despair, anchors us. Nephi: Press forward with a perfect brightness of hope.
Never give up. Elder Uchtdorf leaves us his blessing.
Saturday 2nd session Joseph B WirthlinLearn to laugh. People will get angry- don't let it get to you. If you get lost, don't get angry- laugh about it. His daughter went out to meet the wrong blind date.
The Lord to the prophet Joseph: Peace be unto thy soul. Thine affliction shall be but a small moment.
Trouble will not overcome us if we all the Lord to suffer us to overcome them.
Not even death will take away what Heavenly Father will give us. We will be back with our family.
His grandson Joseph has a disability. He lets the baseball go by him and takes another one out of his pocket to throw back.
He told his daughter she may have to suffer with affliction all her life. But she was eventually healed.
Adversity handled correctly can be a blessing in our lives. Come what may, and love it.
Jeffrey R HollandNone more beloved than Elder Worthlin.
Adam and Eve were separated from God. "They saw Him not for they were shut out." Surely this troubled them the most. God knew we would need Him, so he sent apostles and prophets, and at times, angels, to reassure us. An angel came to Adam and Eve. One came to Mary, the mother of the Son of God. One came to Joseph to warn them of danger.
Scriptures and church history are full of visits by angels. Seen or unseen, they are always near. Sometimes they warn, often they comfort.
Our present day is full of distress- financial, terrorists, etc. They translate to personal and family levels. But angels are sent to help us. One came to Jesus to comfort and help him.
Has the day of miracles ceased? It is by faith that angels appear and minister unto us.
The latter days are not a time to fear and tremble, they are a time to remember our covenants.
Not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some are here among us. Righteous mothers and wives. Pure delightful children.
The story of the disobedient child and Old Banner the horse - an angel came in answer to the boy's prayer. It was his father.
The Lord will never forsake us. He loves all His children. Even when we stray. There are angels all around us- known or unknown. Mortal or immortal.
We can pray for angels. We should also be more angelic ourselves. We can be emissaries of God.
Teach me to walk in the light
Gerald CausseHis daughter said the difference between their religion and her babysitter's is that we study a lot more. :) She was just describing in her own way the importance we place on learning.
To learn about God however, we just need humility, not much learning. The truth about God is availalbe to all regardless of our level of education. Even children can know the truth about God and can feel the Holy Spirit.
We must be humble as little children. Jesus thanked His father for hiding things from the wise and prudent and revealing them unto babes.
Simplicity is the origin of many gospel concepts. Looking beyond the mark is the downfall of many who are learned. Naman was told to bathe in the river and he thought it was too simple. But when he did it in humility, he was healed.
No man knows of the things of God except by the Spirit of God. The natural man is an enemy to God unless he yields to the Spirit.
The teacher's objective is to invite the Spirit to convert people's hearts. Not to provide the most information.
Lawrence E CorbridgeChrist is the beginning and the end. He is the light and life of he world. He is the resurrection. The way, the truth, and the life. The one way to happiness and fulfillment.
We eat and drink of his bread and living water, or foolishly remain hungry, thirsty, and blind.
Only he give us life, peace, joy, forgives our sins, if we just remember Him. Keeping his commandments is the only intelligent thing to do.
Christ overcame all sin in the garden of gethsemane. We don't know how but we know He did. What shall we do? Take upon us His name.
Is his standard too high? Beyond our capacity? No! He does not leave us to do it alone - with His help, everyone can reach it. Not just a select few. This is not a human endeavor. It is God's work. It is His work and glory.
To follow Him IS the highest standard of all, but it IS achievable by all, with His help. We believe that through the atonement of Christ, ALL mankind may be saved by obedience.
To do it without Him is to do it alone. Which is easier? Come unto me all ye that labor and you shall find rest. My Yoke is easy and burden is light. Any other way is madness.
Have the good sense to follow Him.
D Todd Christopherson
We are a chosen people. Zion is a place and a people. The city of Enoch was taken up. They were of one mind and heart. Jerusalem was called Mt. Zion. There will be a new Jersualem, and new Zion.
Babylon is antithesis of Zion. Came from Babel. Associated with Baal the false God- "the shame". The Lord said, Go ye out of Babylon.
We must be beacons. Shine forth that thy light may be a standard for the nations.
The early saints were not qualified to build Zion. There were contentions and envyings and strife.
We should not judge them, but look to ourselves. Are we doing any better? To be zion, we must be of one heart and mind, with no poor among us. We must be unified. A holy people. We must care for the poor and needy efficiently enough to eliminate poverty.
Of us it is required to forgive all men. We must follow those the Lord has chosen to lead us.
A group of students decided to unify to share what they each learned with each other and then to share it all with their home country.
We must be more than just "less wicked". We must be holy. Give up our summer cottage in Babylon.
The earth is full, and there is enough and to spare. Do not horde what falls into your hands. Share it freely.
It is gratifying to witness the generosity of the Saints in fast offerings. But are we doing all that we should? Are we focusing too much on our possessions? Can we be content with food and raiment?
A brother cut his kitchen table in half to provide it to another family in need.
Prepare ourselves for when Zion arrives. Israel, God is calling! Babylon is falling- her towers shall God overthrow.
I Love to See the Temple
David A BednarPrayer becomes more meaningful as we counsel with the Lord in all our doings. As we learn our relationship with God, prayer becomes instinctive. We receive revelation upon revelation and we pray and exercise faith, through the Holy Ghost.
All things were created s spiritually before physically. Similarly, we should pray to spiritually "create" each day. Plead for understanding and direction. Repent to prepare for the day.
Keep a prayer in our hearts during the day for help. We will notice our increased ability to hold our wicked tongues or to speak out in righteousness.
Evening prayer is a preparation for the next morning prayer. All prayers link together across the day, across days, weeks, months, and years. Prayer becomes more meaningful.
Lie down at night unto the lord, and rise up in the morning with thanks in your heart. Pray without ceasing. Remember to be grateful. Keep it a priority to be grateful. We must recognize God's hand in all things before we pray to Him for anything else. Prayers of thanks can be the most beneficial to us.
Periodically offer prayer in which we ask for nothing, but just give thanks.
Praying for others and not just for ourselves is important. Lehi prayed with all his heart in behalf of his people and was shown the vision of the destruction of Jerusalem. He was not praying for his own edification.
3 Nephi- No one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls when we heard Jesus pray for us unto the Father.
We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet
Sunday 1st session
Henry B Eyring
We need unity. We are doing better. He joined a family prayer where he could tell they were joined in faith. A house was prepared for a funeral quickly.
The reason we ask for blessings is the same reason Heavenly Father grants them. To bring joy, out of love. We must seek for unity with others - it is not solitary.
The savior said our joy shall be full even as his joy is full. We should be one as he and his father are one.
At the waters of mormon, Alma inspired his people to have their hearts changed. Be of one heart. Have no contention, but look forward with one eye, with hearts knit together, in unity, one towards another. Thus were they the children of God.
Encourage children to bear testimony of the Savior in FHEs. There are principles we follow to bring greater unity - revelation is the only way to know how to build unity. How to better follow his commandments.
Pride is the great enemy of unity. Two people began a mild disagreement. It became louder, turned into a contest of who was right. We can be peacemakers to resolve conflict - search for anything we agree on. The truth we share is always more important than the differences.
We can even have unity among various backgrounds. We can see value in someone's different background bringing something we lack to contribute.
"What do you think of the new bishop?" Judge not unrighteously. Look for what is best- be generous in your assessments. We will feel peace, joy, unity. Step away from the possibility of sowing seeds of disunity.
The atonement brings the same changes in all of us. We live in different countries, but the church and kingdom help to change us. We are all fellow citizens in the household of God. Unite in righteousness.
The church is often the first on the scene to help and best prepared - The miracle lies not in organization alone, but in individual hearts.
This is the true church and Pres Monson is the true prophet. Leaves us his blessing that we will have unity in our homes.
Robert D Hales
We are Christians. Why do we not more actively defend ourselves when we are attacked? Mortality is a test of how we will react. The disciples of Christ have always endured persecution. Respond as Jesus did. He responded differently in each situation. Pilate vs. moneychangers in table vs. roman soldiers.
He prayed for Father to forgive them for they know not what they do. Do good to them that hate us. Be meek - it takes courage and strength. Do not retaliate. Turn the other cheek, stand with the Savior. Show his love. This will answer our accusers without accusing them ourselves.
Our troubles are not likely to disappear. Abinadi boldy testified although he was threatened with death.
We can take advantage of the opportunity of being attacked - it can create interest. Some are kept from the truth because they know not where to find it. We can set an example of how to react. Seek guidance from the Spirit as true disciples. Tailored response to each encounter.
Never become contentious discussing faith. More regrettable of being accused of being non-christian in when we actually act in a non-christ-like way. Meekness is not weakness - it is the badge of christian courage.
The devil laughs when we debate christian principles. The lord is saddened. We should be bold but not overbearing.
Our goal should be to present truth, not to score points for our ego or be the one who is right. Be child-like- slow to take offense, quick to forgive. Be guile-less. When accused, ask yourself if you have any fault. Seek forgiveness, apologize. Learn respect for others. None of us lives alone.
Sometimes we show christian courage by saying nothing at all. We may be better off by keeping our distance, walking away. They may try to provoke us. Lehonti was slowly poisoned by degrees when he gave in and came down off the mountain. Some want to just pick religious fights, online or in person. We should not encourage them.
We have a great work to do- we cannot waste time or be distracted. The savior said, let not your hearts be troubled, neither be afraid.
How do we respond? We love them. Show the love of Christ. We desire to show a better way. The straight and narrow path. Eternal life.
As Mormon said, behold I am a disciple of Christ, I have been called to testify of him.
Keith B McMullinGod created us in His own image. He has a body. This truth elevates the human family. The capacity to bear children in our likes is god-like.
But sickness, pain and death are inescapable. We need Father's help. Love thy neighbor as thyself, tho separated by distance or race. The lord denieth none who come unto him. All are alike unto God.
We labor for what we receive. Church welfare follows the plan of God. We provide for those who suffer. A chinese official gave his fast offering.
Welfare principles do not change - they are revealed principles. Pray unto God. He answers all sincere prayers. If it appears there is no light at the end, turn to God in faith- He will lift and guide you. Sometimes we turn to the priesthood. When sick or troubled, call for the Elders. The prayer of faith will save them.
A girl's mother wanted her to receive a priesthood blessing- she was run over by a bus. She was blessed to recover fully and be made whole. A month went by, but they did not lose faith. She is now 72 and suffers no effects from the accident.
Be respectful in addressing our Savior- he has accomplished salvation for all, we worship Him in truth. He says, I am the resurrection and the life. He is our lawgiver and judge, the redeemer. Wonderful, Counselor, the Prince of Peace.
Rejoice the Lord is King
Elaine S DaltonIn the strength of the Lord I can do all things. The new YW presidency hiked to the top of the peak and saw the angel Moroni on the temple. The temple is the reason for everything we do. Temple covenants are why the pioneers could sing Come Come Ye Saints- with joy wend your way.
Brigham Young led the Saints with a banner, an ensign to the nations. They had their own banner or ensign, to call back to virtue.
Virtue is a word not heard often in today's society- it means strength. Stand for right even if you stand alone. No friendship is more valuable than your own conscience. Be clean and worthy.
Lahonti would not come down but he was finally convinced to come down. He was poisoned by degrees. Satan poisons us by degrees. Are we ever texting but never coming to a knowledge of the truth?
Be guardians of virtue, not seekers after flesh. The stripling warriors were virtuous and won with the help of the lord. Now is the time to become fit for the kingdom. Return to virtue begins in our hearts and homes. The training program is unique to each of us. Derive your personal program from the scriptures. Stand in holy places.
Attended blessing of granddaughter- blessed to understand her identity as daughter of god and follow her mother and grandmother's examples.
The priesthood is the guardian of virtue. There is no powerful force of virtue than all church members who stand together. Arise and unfurl our banners of virtue. Help prepare for his coming- when he appears, we shall be like him.
I Feel My Savior's Love
Russel M Ballard
Joseph Smith prophesied the Saints would suffer much affliction and be driven to the Rocky Mountains, many would die, but some would live to see the saints their rest obtain. He knew no enemy would have power to stop the work of God. The Standard of Truth.
We have seen the fulfillment of prophecy for the past 180 years. Countries have been opened to the preaching of the gospel. The gospel continued to cover the earth.
After the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum, Brigham Young prepared them to move west. Missionary work continued.
In 2004 we reached a million in Mexico.
From 1890 to 1930, our doctrine was still under attack. Much was said against Joseph F Smith, but some newspapers started to speak of members of the church as good people.
In 1925, his grandfather Ballard prophecied the mission will grow to one of the strongest in the world in South America.
Pres Kimball asked us to increase missionaries and increase use of media. Membership almost doubled. Conversion was happening in many lands.
Since then we have experienced unprecedented prominence and also unprecedented ideological attacks. Yet we continue to grow. Almost doubled again.
Last year the 1 millionth missionary was called in this dispensation.
The work of God cannot be frustrated. Only the work of man. The standard of truth is erected and no unholy hand can stop it.
We are on our way to visiting every climb and sounding in every ear. There is still much to be done before the great Jehovah can say the work is done. We are all needed.
Our challenges are different today but they are no less demanding. We face spiritual challenges. We see the institution of the family under attack.
We're not asked to travel across the continent- we're asked to go across the street to visit our neighbors. This is not a time for spiritual faint of heart. Our testimonies must run deep. Firmly embed our roots in the sure foundation.
Pres MonsonOne of the most inevitable aspects of our life is change. Nothing is as constant as change. We always deal with it. Some is welcome, some not.
This is 45 years since his calling as apostle. This week is his 60th wedding anniversary.
Time never stand still. As it goes on, so come the changes. Opportunities come, then they're gone. Lessons teach us what is important and what is not. Find joy in the journey now. He enjoys musicals - The Music Man- don't pile up a bunch of empty yesterdays.
We feel regret for lost opportunities, but don't dwell on the past. Focus on now to provide pleasant memories for the future. Stresses come in our lives, don't let them get in the way of what is important. Shakespeare: They do not love who do not show it.
Send a note to a friend. Say I love you to family and friends. Never let a problem to be solved be more important than a loved one. Don't be left with "What if" or "If only".
Do human beings ever realize what's important in life while they're alive?
Which secret garden will we choose to tend?
?Dahl who was blind had her sight restored and she was grateful- did not take things for granted.
Jesus healed the ten lepers- only one turned back to give thanks. In nothing doth man offend God save those who confess not his hand in all things. Fill our lives with those things that matter most. Express grattitude to the Lord.
For a time he stood alone. He was betrayed. His life was laid down. But he forgave them. "I stand at the door and knock. If any man will hear my voice, I will come in and sup with him." He beckons Come follow me. Go and do likewise. Keep my commandments. Find joy in the journey.
The Morning Breaks
Sunday 2nd session
Boyd K Packer
Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail cried unto God. He was called into court 200 times but was never convicted. Governor boggs issued extermination order to get us out. We sought redress from the government- the prophet was murdered.
We still celebrate our freedom in this land. The country did not fail us- wicked men did. We are law abiding citizens in all lands we live in. This land is a promised and choice land. The pure principles of the constitution remain unchanged.
Something much stronger than human nature prevailed for the early saints. If one can understand why they could still celebrate their country after all their persecution, one can understand why we strive to live these same principles.
When Joseph Smith died another took his place and succession continues. The keys were passed on. Satan is still trying to destroy us but will not prevail. The Standard of Truth. The sun will never set on the latter day saints.
Russel M Nelson
We are thankful especially now for God's plan of happiness.
The patterns of the shopper - look around and find the best at good price. Shoplifters take what they want without paying. Marital shoplifters break the law of God.
Husband and wife must be sealed to gain the highest kingdom. All activities, classes, etc. are all means to the goal of exalted families.
The family is central to the creator's plan. Each individual is divine. Gender is an essential characteristic. Family relationships will be perpetuated beyond the grave.
Marriage is between man and woman and the Lord. To answer the ends of the earth. It is the Lord's work and glory. Because of the atonement all will be resurrected and can gain eternal life through covenants.
If we reject a gift, we reject the giver of the gift. We must take advantage of the chance to make these covenants while here and live by them. No blessings will be withheld from faithful saints. He knows our hearts. Marriage starts with two built in handicaps- two imperfect people. Harmony can still come from a concerted effort. Each partner must minimize personal demands and maximize selflessness. No one has learned to live until he has surrendered his ego to the service of his fellow man.
The blessings of temple marriage is almost beyond our comprehension. We can receive fulness of perfection. It is a pivotal part of eternal life. Obey the covenant faithfully and be assured of exaltation.
William D OswaldTheir granddaughters learned to jump rope from the neighbor girls. Learn the basic principles about teaching. All of us can do it. We all have the responsibility to do it. Every position in the church requires an effective teacher. We need to be shown by successful teachers how to implement the principles.
The principles are found in the scriptures, church magazines, manuals- Teaching, No Greater Call. Jesus was called Raboni, the master teacher. He said, I do nothing of myself, but as my father hath taught me.
The sons of Mosiah prepared to teach by searching the scriptures and by prayer and fasting. They taught with power and authority. Moroni taught Joseph Smith. Joseph was afraid at first but his fear soon left. He called him by name. Greeting by name helps comfort students.
Encourage pondering of gospel truths. Joseph pondered after the 3rd visit. Pondering requires our hearts as well our heads. Invites personal revelation. Open the scriptures and teach from them.
Eduardo GavarretThey gathered around the fireplace to feel warmth together. Help people come back to church and feel the warmth of family. Welcome them home. Come home through baptism and confirmation, or through repentance and the sacrament. Enjoy the fruits of fellowship with the saints.
A man came to house of his brother who house was hard to reach- he was surprised to see him- he said "we need you to come back", and he said "I will be there."
Kindle and care for the flame that brought them into the church. We serve God when we serve our brothers and sisters.
Seek after those who are not here with us. If we bring only one soul, how much will we rejoice. We are all sons and daughters of Heavenly Father.
Carlos A GodoyHe couldn't think of anything remarkable to share of a testimony conversion. But he bore a simple pure testimony in testimony meeting.
Sometimes we think we need a strong powerful experience. But the spirit is not a loud powerful voice. Elijah found the voice of the Lord not in the window or earthquake or fire, but in a still small voice. The spirit does shake use with a heavy hand. It whispers. If we are preoccupied we may not hear it at all. If we do not heed it, it may withdraw and wait for us to seek Him.
The still small voice can be a more sure witness than the appearance of an angel. Laman and Lemuel saw an angel but were not converted.
If a good seed is planted, if it is not cast out, it will begin to swell within you, and you will begin to know that the seed is good. For some there may be one remarkable event, but for others it may just be a series of small events. They can all leave their mark and combine to form a strong testimony of the truth.
The church was restored through Joseph Smith. Thomas S Monson is our living prophet just like Abraham and Moses. The Book of Mormon is the word of God, just as the bible.
Quentin L CookHe had a white knuckle experience driving through snowstorm. His 3 year old told his mom about the hard time they had. He was comforted as he spoke with her. Prayer is like this.
The Lord answered Joseph Smith that his afflictions will be but a small moment. There must be opposition in all things in this life. It is a time of testing and proving.
The contrast between the sweet and the bitter is essential until the end of this mortal experience. The saints looked forward to going west with optimism or with concern. They experienced many trials, lost children, left behind their writings for us.
Brigham Young said, We won't suffer any more than is for our good.
Some trials are for our own personal development. Rain falls on the just and the unjust. Not every cloud results in rain. There are lean years and plentiful years. Be prepared for the lean. The scriptures warn us. Prepare by keeping the commandments.
Appreciate our blessings. Be grateful most of all to the Savior for the atonement.
A woman lost her hustband to a traffic accident and plunged into grief. She could only see darkness and pain. The mother of the son who also died visited with her. She had a picture of the Savior to remind her that He knows their sorrows. They now go to the temple together and give thanks for the atonement.
Christ cried to his father, Abba, the cry of a child in distress. We can always cry unto God that we are having a hard time.
Pres. MonsonThis has an inspiring conference. We follow the Spirit. May we long remember what we have learned. We appreciate the service of those who have been released.
Let us be good neighbors in our communities and reach out to other faiths as well as our own. Help alleviate suffering. We appreciate your generosity.
There are others with other problems- involved in unholy activities. There are those who are lonely- widows, etc. Reach out to help.
God bless you brothers and sisters. We are grateful for you.
Exile from God is the most searing anguish. Eternal life with God is the most precious goal we can have. Remember to whom we pray and in whose name we pray. If we knock he will open.
We Ever Pray for Thee
Tags: 2008 October Conference Notes
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