Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Elder Holland began by emphasizing that the greatest privilege we have had this conference is watching the sacred mantle fall upon the shoulders of President Monson through his presence and the solemn assembly. Last October, Elder Holland discussed one of the two reasons Mormons are not considered Christian: our belief in the Godhead. Yesterday, he discussed the second.

Many believe members of the church are not Christian because of the belief in continuing revelation. We believe that God continues to speak to His children. In the end, scripture is not the ultimate authority, but it is a "manifestation of the ultimate source," God. Continuing scripture provides additional witnesses pointing to God and the truthfulness of the Bible, the first book of the standard works.

Elder David A. Bednar

Elder Bednar spoke about meaningful, faithful prayer. In such a prayer, there is a "dual obligation both to plead and to perform." By praying, we open ourselves up to the opportunity to receive blessings.

When asking in faith, we must be prepared to act on the answer, persevere through trials of faith and recognize and accept God's will over our own.

Elder W. Craig Zwick

Elder Zwick challenged members to never lower their moral standards for anyone. Every person has the promise that if he or she is faithful and keeps the commandments, God will encircle him or her in His arms. Like Abinadi, we must remain steadfast and unyielding in our values.

Elder Robert R. Steuer

Elder Steuer used the metaphor of a small flashlight turned on at night to symbolize the brightness of spiritual light and truth. Our spiritual light can grow through learning true doctrine, gaining a testimony and living the gospel. By filling ourselves with the light of Christ, our eternal destiny will become clearer.

Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander

Elder Neuenschwander analyzed the bible story of the woman healed by her faith after touching the hem of Christ's garment. "In reality these stories are not about crowds, but individuals among those crowds," he said. We are all such individuals with the faith of that woman. Pushing through the crowd represents the struggles and trials of life, all of which can be overcome through our faith in Christ.

Elder Lance B. Wickman

Elder Wickman told the story of a friend who was killed during the Vietnam War. Like his friend, we all must pass through death and we cannot postpone forgiveness to Tomorrow when it should happen Today. By living the gospel to its fullest Today, especially through he principle of forgiveness, we ensure ourselves an eternal Tomorrow.

Elder Craig C. Christensen

Elder Christensen discussed many of the sacred characteristics of the Book of Mormon as a book with a promise and purpose. It teaches about the plan of salvation, testifies of Christ and authenticates the work of Joseph Smith. It has the ability to change lives and strengthen testimonies. As we share the gospel with friends and family, we should remember how significant a change it can cause and treat it with the respect it deserves.

Elder M. Russell Ballard

Elder Ballard expressed his gratitude for the work mothers, especially those with young children, do to guide and raise their children. He counsels mothers to enjoy that precious time, not to overschedule themselves or their children, spend time on themselves and teach the gospel to their children.

Ballard suggests husbands should show extra appreciation for their wives, have time dedicated to talk about each child, give their wives occasional breaks and be actively involved in parenting.

"I hope all you dear sisters, married or single, never wonder if you have worth in the sight of the Lord and to the leaders of the Church," he said.

President Thomas S. Monson

In his closing remarks, President Monson recalled the story of his grandfather's brother, Elias Monson, who, as a missionary, brought the gospel to his wife's father and his parents in Sweden. He commented on the great number of talks and rapid fire counsel we had received, urging members to incorporate it into their lives, especially to focus on their families and attend the temple regularly.

"My dear brothers and sisters, I love you and I pray for you. Please pray for me and together we will reap the blessings."

Copyright Brigham Young University 7 Apr 2008