Regina, Saskatchewan
65th operating temple
Dedicated: 14 Nov 1999
By: Boyd K. Packer
Jesus Christ, Appearances, Antemortal
Ezekiel 1:26
And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone: and upon the likeness of the throne was the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it.
Helaman 13:1-20
*How can we be more like Samuel the Lamanite?
- We can become more like Samuel the Lamanite by following the counsel of the Lord, listening to the Spirit, and being courageous and sharing the gospel with others.
DC 1:37-38 Scripture Mastery
37 Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.
38 What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the vice of my servants, it is the same.
General Conference
Turn on the Light
Sharon Eubank
"Turn your soul toward the light. Begin your own wonderful journey home. As you do so, your life will be better, happier, and more purposeful."
I read this quote in the New Era: "If we always choose ease and comfort over effort and hard work, we're accepting a mediocre version of ourselves."
Pam and Rick arrived this morning with a pot of homemade Manhattan clam chowder. James is so excited! Here is how today's morning session went:
Sunday Morning Session
"That Your Joy Might Be Full"
Sister Jean B. Bingham
Relief Society General President
Lasting joy is found in focusing on our Savior, Jesus Christ, and living the gospel as demonstrated and taught by Him. The more we learn about, have faith in, and emulate Jesus Christ, the more we come to understand that He is the source of all healing, peace, and eternal progress. ...
No matter what we have suffered, He is the source of healing. Those who have experienced any manner of abuse, devastating loss, chronic illness or disabling affliction, untrue accusations, vicious persecution, or spiritual damage from sin or misunderstandings can all be made whole by the Redeemer of the world. However, He will not enter without invitation. We must come unto Him and allow Him to work His miracles.
Are our testimonies built on the bedrock foundation of Jesus Christ and His gospel? When the storms of life press upon us, do we frantically look for a how-to-book or an internet post for help? Taking the time to build and strengthen our knowledge and testimony of Jesus Christ will yield rich dividends in times of trial and adversity. Daily reading of scriptures and pondering the words of living prophets, engaging in meaningful personal prayer, mindfully partaking of the sacrament each week, giving service as the Savior would - each of these simple activities becomes a building block for a joyful life.
"Has the Day of Miracles Ceased?"
Elder Donald L. Hallstrom
My limited knowledge cannot explain why sometimes there is divine intervention and other times there is not. But perhaps we lack an understanding of what constitutes a miracle.
Often we describe a miracle as being healed without a full explanation by medical science or as avoiding catastrophic danger by heeding a clear prompting. However, defining a miracles as "a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand" gives an expanded perspective into matters more eternal in nature. ...
A critical question to ponder is "Where do we place our faith?" Is our faith focused on simply wanting to be relieved of pain and suffering, or is it firmly centered on God the Father and His holy plan and in Jesus the Christ and His Atonement? ..
Today I testify of miracles. Being a child of God is a miracle. Receiving a body in His image and likeness is a miracle. The gift of a Savior is a miracle. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is a miracle. The potential for eternal life is a miracle.
... Our supreme focus should be on the spiritual miracles that are available to all of God's children. No matter our ethnicity, no matter our nationality, no matter what we have done if we repent, no matter what may have been done to us - all of us have equal access to these miracles.
"Exceeding Great and Precious Promises"
Elder David A. Bednar
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
One of the great challenges each of us faces every day is to not allow the concerns of this world to so dominate our time and energy that we neglect the eternal things that matter most. ...
The Apostle Peter reminds us, ... "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world" [2 Peter 1:4]. ...
God promises His children that if they follow the precepts of His plan and the example of His Beloved Son, ... then by virtue of the Savior's redemption, they "shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God" [DC 14:7]. Eternal life is the ultimate exceeding great and precious promise. ...
Priesthood ordinances and sacred covenants ... are the means God has appointed whereby we receive His exceeding great and precious promises. Ordinances that are received worthily and remembered continually open the heavenly channels through which the power of godliness can flow into our lives. Covenants that are honored steadfastly and remembered always provide purpose and the assurance of blessings in both mortality and for eternity. ...
The Sabbath day and the temple, respectively, are a sacred time and a sacred space specifically set apart for worshipping God and for receiving and remembering His exceeding great and precious promises to His children. ...
... Leaving our homes to spend time in Sunday meetings and to enter the sacred space of a temple is vital but insufficient. Only as we bring the spirit and strength derived from those holy activities back with us into our homes can we sustain our focus upon the great purposes of mortal life and overcome the corruption that is in the world.
"Turn to the Lord"
Bishop W. Christopher Waddell
Second Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric
There will be times in our lives when we find ourselves on an unexpected path. ... How do we respond when events, often out of our control, alter the life we had planned or hoped for? ...
... Although each "change" may be unique to our individual circumstances, there is a common element in the resulting trial or challenge - hope and peace are always available through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The Atonement of Jesus Christ provides the ultimate corrective and healing measures to every wounded body, damaged spirit, and broken heart. ...
... We cannot control all that happens to us, but we have absolute control over how we respond to the changes in our lives. This does not imply that the challenges and trials we face are of no consequence and easily handled or dealt with. It does not imply that we will be free from pain or heartache. But it does mean that there is cause for hope and that due to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can move forward and find better days - even days full of joy, light, and happiness. ...
Whatever change in life's circumstance may come our way, and whatever unexpected path we may have to travel, how we respond is a choice. Turning to the Savior and grasping His outstretched arm is always our best option.
"Lord, Wilt Thou Cause That My Eyes May Be Opened"
Elder W. Craig Zwick
Emeritus Member of the Seventy
The gospel mentors us to look beyond what we see. To look beyond what we see, we must look at others through the eyes of our Savior. The gospel net is filled with people in all their variety ... We must look past the easy assumptions and stereotypes and widen the tiny lens of our own experience. ...
We live in a world that feeds on comparisons, labeling, and criticism. Instead of seeing through the lens of social media, we need to look inward for the godly attributes to which we each lay claim. ...
... Truly loving others requires the ongoing practice of accepting the best efforts of people whose life experiences and limitations we may never fully know. ...
As members of the Church, we have been gifted personal spiritual alarms that warn us when we are looking with only mortal eyes away from salvation. The sacrament is our weekly reminder to continually focus on Jesus Christ that we might always remember Him and that we might always have His Spirit to be with us. Yet we sometimes ignore these feelings of reminder and alarm. When we have Jesus Christ at the center of our lives, He will cause that our eyes may be opened to larger possibilities than we alone can comprehend.
"Fear Not to Do Good"
President Henry B. Eyring
First Counselor in the First Presidency
Last April, President Thomas S. Monson gave a message that stirred hearts across the world, including mine. He spoke of the power of the Book of Mormon. He urged us to study, ponder, and apply its teachings. He promised that if we dedicated time each day to studying and pondering and kept the commandments the Book of Mormon contains, we would have a vital testimony of its truth, and the resultant testimony of the living Christ would see us through to safety in times of trouble. ...
In a season of increasing tumult in the world, those increases in testimony have driven out doubt and fear and have brought us feelings of peace. ...
The Lord told His leaders of the Restoration, and He tells us, that when we stand with faith upon His rock, doubt and fear are diminished; the desire to do good increases. As we accept President Monson's invitation to plant in our hearts a testimony of Jesus Christ, we gain the power, the desire, and the courage to go to the rescue of others without concern for our own needs. ...
We cannot foresee the details, but we know the larger picture. We know that in the last days, the world will be in commotion. ... And we know that the Lord's true disciples will be worthy and prepared to receive Him when He comes again. We need not fear.
Our Manhattan chowder was delicious. James loved it. I liked it too. We were sad to hear during the break between these two sessions of the passing of Elder Robert D. Hales. It was nice to hear that President Nelson left the morning session early so he could be with Elder Hales and he was there at the time of his death with Elder Hales' family. Elder Hale's last conference address in April was on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. It was one of my very favorite.
Sunday Afternoon Session of the
187th Semiannual General Conference
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"The Trek Continues!"
Elder M. Russell Ballard
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Although it is appropriate and important to remember the historic 19th century Mormon pioneer trek, we need to remember that "the trek through life continues!" for each of us as we prove our own "faith in every footstep." ...
A trek back to our Heavenly Father is the most important trek of our lives, and it continues each day, each week, each month, and each year as we increase our faith in Him and in His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ.
We must be careful where our footsteps in life take us. ...
*Today I repeat earlier counsel from Church leaders. Brothers and sisters, keep the doctrine of Christ pure and never be deceived by those who tamper with the doctrine. ...
*Do not listen to those who have not been ordained or set apart to their Church calling and are acknowledged by common consent of the members of the Church.
*Be aware of organizations, groups, or individuals claiming secret answers to doctrinal questions that they say today's apostles and prophets do not have or understand.
*Do not listen to those who entice you with get-rich schemes. ...
In some places, too many of our people are looking beyond the mark and seeking secret knowledge in expensive and questionable practices to provide healing and support. ...
I testify that "the trek continues," and I invite you to stay on the gospel path as you continue pressing forward by reaching out to all of God's children in love and compassion that we may unitedly make our hearts pure and our hands clean to receive the "multiplicity of blessings" awaiting all who truly love our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son.
"God's Compelling Witness: The Book of Mormon"
Tad R. Callister
Sunday School General President
The Book of Mormon is not only the keystone of our religion, but it can also become the keystone of our testimonies so that when trials or unanswered questions confront us, it can hold our testimonies securely in place. This book is the one weight on the scales of truth that exceeds the combined weight of all the critic's arguments. Why? Because if it is true, then Joseph Smith was a prophet and this is the restored Church of Jesus Christ, regardless of any historical or other arguments to the contrary. For this reason, the critics are intent on disproving the Book of Mormon but the obstacles they face are insurmountable, because this book is true. ...
The Book of Mormon is one of God's priceless gifts to us. ... As Saints, we not only have the privilege to defend the Book of Mormon but the opportunity to take the offense - to preach with power its divine doctrine and bear witness of its crowning witness of Jesus Christ.
I bear my solemn testimony that the Book of Mormon was translated by the gift and power of God. It is God's compelling witness of the divinity of Jesus Christ, the prophetic calling of Joseph smith, and the absolute truth of this Church.
"Apart, but Still One"
Elder Joni L. Koch
Of the Seventy
In the Church, in spite of our differences, the Lord expects us to be one! He said in the Doctrine and Covenants, Be one; and if ye are not one yea re not mine" [DC 38:27].
As we enter a meetinghouse to worship as a group, we should leave behind our differences ... and instead concentrate on our common spiritual objectives. Together we sing hymns, ponder about the same covenants during the sacrament, say simultaneously an audible "amen" after talks, lessons, and prayers. ...
These things that we do collectively help create a strong sense of oneness within the congregation.
However, what really determines, solidifies, or destroys our unity is how we act when we are apart from our fellow Church members. ...
... Our words about our fellow beings should reflect our belief in Jesus Christ and His Atonement and that in Him and through Him, we can always change for the better! ...
It is also likely that we will all experience some correction from our ecclesiastic leaders, which will be a test on how united we are with them. ...
... I testify that as we decide to be one with the members and leaders of the Church - both when were assembled together but especially when we are apart - we will also feel more perfectly united with our Heavenly Father and the Savior.
"Do We Trust Him? Hard Is Good"
Elder Stanley G. Ellis
Emeritus Member of the Seventy
Hard makes us stronger, humbles us, and gives us a chance to prove ourselves. Our beloved handcart pioneers came to know God in their extremities. Why did it take two chapters for Nephi and his brothers to obtain the brass plates and only three verses to enlist Ishmael's family to join them in the wilderness? It seems the Lord wanted to strengthen Nephi through the struggle of obtaining the brass plates.
The hard things in our lives should come as no surprise. One of the earliest covenants we make with the Lord is to live the law of sacrifice. Sacrifice by definition involves giving up something desirable. With experience we realize it is a small price to pay in relation to the blessings that follow. ...
Each of us may have a different opinion about what is hard. Some may consider it hard to pay tithing when finances are tight. Some leaders find it difficult to expect the poor to pay tithing. It may be hard for some of us to go forward with faith to marry or to have a family. There are those who find it hard to be content with what the Lord hath allotted unto them" (Alma 29:3). It may be hard to be content with our current calling. Church discipline may seem very hard, but for some it marks the beginning of the true repentance process.
Regardless of the issue, hard can be good for those who will move forward with faith and trust the Lord and His plan.
"Essential Truths - Our Need to Act"
Elder Adilson de Paula Parrella
Of the Seventy
Millions who have already joined the Church, as well as the many who are being converted and baptized each week, have gained a testimony of the First Vision. The Holy Ghost can repeat this witness often to each of us as we strive to live the simple truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The First Vision and the Prophet Joseph Smith brought forth additional knowledge and truth that are essential to our happiness in this life and our exaltation in the presence of God. ...
An essential truth we learn from the First Vision and the Prophet Joseph Smith is that God calls prophets, seers, and revelators to instruct, guide, warn, and lead us. ...
Another truth we learn because of the First Vision and the Prophet Joseph Smith is the true nature of God. Just imagine how blessed we are to know that God is a being with a body of flesh and bones as tangible as ours, that we can worship a God who is real, whom we can understand, and who has shown and revealed Himself and His Son to His prophets. ...
From the First Vision and the Prophet Joseph Smith, we received knowledge of the reality and sacred mission of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the cornerstone of our religion.
"Seek Ye Out of the Best Books"
Elder Ian S. Ardern
Of the Seventy
We live in a day in which misinformation about our beliefs abounds. ...
The warnings of our prophets and apostles remind us that we must do all we can to fortify ourselves spiritually against words of opposition and deception. ...
... Our spiritual roots go deeper as sincere personal and family prayer become bastions of our faith, as we repent daily, seek the companionship of the Holy Ghost, and learn of our Savior and His attributes and strive to become like Him.
Our Savior Jesus Christ, is the Light of the World, and He beckons us to follow Him. ...
Questions about our Church history and beliefs do arise. ... The best counsel was given by the Apostle James: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God" (James 1:5). ...
With all our prayer, study, and pondering, there may still remain some yet-to-be-answered questions. ... Such questions are an invitation to build our faith. ... It is the very essence of religion not to have a sure answer to every question, for this is one of the purposes of faith. ...
Let each of us live ... so that we will remain "firm in the faith of Christ, even unto the end" (Alma 27:27).
"Love One Another as He Has Loved Us"
Elder Jose L. Alonso
Of the Seventy
During the Last Supper, the Savior gave a new commandment to His disciples, saying:
"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another" [John 13:34-35].
The Savior's disciples were given a new commandment to do something more, something greater, and something more divine. This new commandment and invitation is summarized in the key phrase "as I have loved you." ...
In today's world of so much suffering for different circumstances, sending a text message with a funny emoji or posting a nice picture with the words "I love you" is good and valuable. But what many of us need to do is leave our mobile devices behind and, with our hands and feet, help others in great need. Love without service is like faith without works; its dead indeed.
The pure love of Christ, which is charity, not only inspires us to act and provide service but also to have the strength to forgive, regardless of the situation. ...
I know that our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, love us and are willing to help us to act as we love one another as They have loved us. And I know that by serving and forgiving others with real love, we can be healed and receive the strength to overcome our own challenges.
"The Voice of the Lord"
Elder Neil L. Andersen
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
General Conference is one of the very important times Jesus Christ gives direction to His Church and to us personally. ...
In the commotion and confusion of our modern world trusting and believing in the words of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve is vital to our spiritual growth and endurance. ...
As you listen, the messages you receive may be very literal or they may be customized just for you. ...
I promise you that as you prepare your spirit and come with the anticipation that you will hear the voice of the Lord, thoughts and feelings will come into your mind that are customized especially for you. You have already felt them in this conference , or you will as you study the messages in the weeks ahead. ...
The teachings of general conference are the considerations the Lord would have before us now and in the months ahead. ...
Often, His voice directs us to change something in our lives. He invites us to repent. He invites us to follow Him. ...
There is a treasure chest of heavenly direction awaiting your discovery in the messages of general conference. The test for each of us is how we respond to what we hear, what we read, and what we feel. ...
I promise that as you hear the voice of the Lord to you in the teachings of this general conference and then act on those promptings, you will feel heaven's hand upon you, and your life and the lives of those around you will be blessed.
We said our goodbye's to Pam and Rick and went back in to finish off the pecan pie they left. James takes the pecans off the top and leaves me the filling and the crust. Somehow I feel cheated. What's a pecan pie without pecans.
It has been a most wonderful weekend. This is what Pam had to say about conference:
"Two talks stood out to me, "The Living Bread" by D. Todd Christofferson and "Value Beyond Measure" by Joy D. Jones.
This conference was about seeking to become like Christ. Knowing your divine worth. Knowing Christ. reaching your full potential and clinging to the Savior. Christ lifts us to higher ground so we can see who we are, know our worth and be closer to Him. The message of this conference is knowing Jesus Christ. I always hear read the Book of Mormon but I felt like knowing the New Testament and learning of His ways are super important to be more like Him. I loved the conference in its entirety. I loved the ones that took me by surprise but what is a central theme of this conference is knowing, drawing close to Him."
I was spiritually fed and then I found out some of our dear friends in Chandler are getting a divorce. Another family has left the Church because of the gay marriage issue. And the world continues to spin...
