In a world where “happiness” often seems fleeting, Elder Patrick Kearon’s talk “Welcome to the Church of Joy” offers a profound answer to one of life’s biggest questions: How can we find lasting joy? His talk addresses foundational gospel principles like the Plan of Salvation, agency, and the essential nature of organized worship as pathways to joy. Elder Kearon asserts that true joy flows from understanding God’s plan, reverencing Christ, and gathering as an organized church to partake of the sacrament. Let’s explore how these principles answer common questions and critiques about the Church’s teachings on worship, joy, and mental well-being. [Read more…] about Choosing Joy in a Troubled World: The Power of Worship and Christ-Centered Living
Living as Children of the Covenant: Understanding Our Birthright and Responsibility
“Why are Latter-day Saints so different?” This is a question many young members of the Church find themselves facing. In a world that values conformity, living differently can feel daunting, even isolating.
In his talk, “O Youth of the Noble Birthright”, Brother Brad Wilcox speaks to the youth of the Church, reminding them of their noble birthright as covenant children of God. He emphasizes that this identity calls for a distinct way of life, not because they are better than others but because they have a greater purpose to fulfill. Brother Wilcox’s words don’t just offer comfort but also a deeper understanding of how living differently aligns with God’s trust in His children and how it impacts their divine mission. This talk speaks directly to questions of identity, purpose, and divine trust, making it relevant for anyone encountering questions about faith, doctrinal beliefs, or the demands of discipleship.
Common Questions, Misconceptions, and Criticisms
Holding Up the Light of Christ: Sustaining Leaders and Each Other
In a world that seems to thrive on contention and division, it’s natural to wonder: How can I hold onto light in the midst of it all? Elder Ronald A. Rasband’s talk, “Behold I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up,” invites us to do just that—find, hold, and share the light of the Savior. His message calls on us to strengthen our commitment to Jesus Christ by sustaining our leaders and lifting each other. But what does “holding up” the light really mean? And how do we fulfill this call in today’s complex world?
Elder Rasband’s talk offers a clear apostolic witness of Jesus Christ as the Light of the world and reaffirms the sacred role of prophets in guiding us through spiritual challenges. He emphasizes that sustaining leaders isn’t passive; it’s a call to action. By holding up those called to lead, we strengthen our own resolve and align ourselves with divine purposes. Elder Rasband’s counsel is especially relevant for those facing questions about the role of modern prophets, the fallibility of leaders, and how best to support others in a world often skeptical of faith. [Read more…] about Holding Up the Light of Christ: Sustaining Leaders and Each Other
Consider Conference: Preparing for General Conference
2024 April General Conference, Sunday Morning Session
The Powerful, Virtuous Cycle of the Doctrine of Christ
Elder Dale G. Renlund
of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
As we approach General Conference, we are invited to move closer to the Savior and build spiritual momentum, as Elder Renlund described in his talk, “The Powerful, Virtuous Cycle of the Doctrine of Christ.” Elder Renlund shared a personal experience of a kayaking excursion in Hawaii to illustrate a key truth about spiritual progress: maintaining steady effort and momentum helps us navigate life’s challenges. Similarly, preparing for, participating in, and taking action after General Conference allows us to continue ‘rowing’ toward the Savior, no matter how many times the waves of life knock us off course – and no matter where we are in our individual faith journey. [Read more…] about Consider Conference: Preparing for General Conference
Release events for “Six Days in August”
Six Days in August is a new film from The Interpreter Foundation about the succession crisis of 1844. The film will officially open in theaters on the Thursday following General Conference, which is 10 October. If you haven’t already watched the trailer, it’s up at https://witnessesfilm.com/. In anticipation of the theatrical release, there will be a couple of events this week:
- There will be a significant Six Days in August fireside at the SCERA Center for the Arts in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday, 25 September. A free ticket is required.
- On the following evening, at 7 PM on 26 September, nine Carmike theaters along the Wasatch Front — in Draper, Salt Lake City, American Fork, Orem, Provo, Ogden, Midvale/Sandy, West Jordan, and Farmington — will be offering a “sneak peek” early screening of Six Days in August. (The same will be done on 7 October.) See https://www.cinemark.com/movies/six-days-in-august-early-access?showDate=2024-09-26
Consider Conference: “Opposition in All Things”
2024 April General Conference, Sunday Afternoon Session
Elder Mathias Held
of the Seventy
Summary [Read more…] about Consider Conference: “Opposition in All Things”
Consider Conference: “Be One with Christ”
2024 April General Conference, Saturday Afternoon Session
Elder Quentin L. Cook
of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Summary
[Read more…] about Consider Conference: “Be One with Christ”
Consider Conference: “Covenants and Responsibilities”
2024 April General Conference, Sunday Morning Session
Covenants and Responsibilities
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
First Counselor in the First Presidency
Summary [Read more…] about Consider Conference: “Covenants and Responsibilities”
Consider Conference: “Motions of a Hidden Fire”
2024 April General Conference, Saturday Morning Session
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Summary [Read more…] about Consider Conference: “Motions of a Hidden Fire”
Consider Conference: “Be Still, and Know That I Am God”
2024 April General Conference, Saturday Afternoon Session
“Be Still, and Know That I Am God”
Elder David A. Bednar
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Main Points [Read more…] about Consider Conference: “Be Still, and Know That I Am God”