Live General Conference Notes

Music Monday–Press Forward, Saints

2012-02-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Russell M. Nelson

2012-02-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

Full Talk

Talk: Russell M Nelson - Quorum of the Twelve

One of the most important concepts of revealed religion is sacred covenants.
Covenant - is a sacred promise with God (each accepts the terms)
When one accepts a covenant and fulfills their part they receive the blessings.
Through the ages, God has made covenants with his children.
To Abraham:
“In thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. “ 3 Nephi 20:25
Elements of the covenants would only be fulfilled in the latter days.
(What does this mean for those of us here today?)
Gods greatest blessing: Eternal Life
No distinction between literal seed of Abraham and those gathered by adoption
Patriarchal Blessings - Provide each a vision of their future and a connection to the past (via their lineage)
Faithfulness to Priesthood = sanctified to renewing of bodies; signifies you receive the Savior, Father, and therefore all He has
Ours is the duty to fulfill this responsibility
Priesthood duty includes missionary work
After more than 4000 years, this is the appointed day when the gospel is to be taken to all the kindreds of the earth--the time of the gathering of Israel, we get to participate
The Lord is counting on us.
He is profoundly grateful for our daughters who serve as missionaries
The Book of Mormon states as one of its purposes: “That ye may know that the covenant which was made with the children of Israel is already beginning to be fulfilled”
The Lord has NOT forgotten!
Purposes of Book of Mormon:
Convincing the the Jew and Gentile that Jesus is the Christ
Children of the covenant have the right to receive his doctrine, and to know the plan of salvation
All Latter-day Saints enter the New & Everlasting Covenant
Enter: To sustain
Keep: By obeying His commandments
Renew: By partaking of the sacrament
Inherit: All that He hath (Celestial Marriage) is a covenant of exaltation?
When we understand this doctrine the (missed this part, anyone?) and the sting of death is removed
Greatest compliment in this life is to be known as a covenant keeper
Blessed in all things, if faithful to end: received into a state of never-ending happiness

Music Monday–I Am a Child of God

2012-01-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita

2012-01-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

Full Talk

Talk: Kazuhiko Yamashita - (山下和彦)- Of the Seventy
Story of wearing the father’s coat. Serving in the same country the father served also.
How beautiful upon the mountains...
When was 17 I didn’t understand the message, but I had a special feeling about the missionaries and I wanted to be like them.
May not understand the message, but like how they feel when around the missionaries (Implication: example is powerful and understanding will come over them as testimony matures?)
Your message is of love, a message of hope, and a message of faith
Was enveloped in the Holy Spirit from the experience
even though I didn’t immediately understand the message, I felt the missionary’s love for me
Missionaries are called by the Lord
Three things a future missionary should have:
1. A desire to preach the gospel
Know how hard people are striving to know the gospel
2. To develop your testimony
3. Love others
The Lord requires a willing heart and an open mind
We are our Father Heaven’s Children
The Lord loves us and will always love us.

Music Monday–Redeemer of Israel

2012-01-23T08:41:00.000-07:00

What They Said Wednesday–Sister Elaine S. Dalton

2012-01-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

Full Talk

Talk: Elaine S Dalton - Young Women General President
Nothing describes a new father holding his child for the first time.
Listen up Husband and Fathers
The most important thing a Father can do for his Daughter is to love her Mother.
President McKay often quoted: ‘The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother’” [see Richard Evans’ Quote Book (1971), 11]
She will learn from your example what to expect from young men and what to seek for in an eternal companion.
Teach her not to settle.
Your example will teach your daughter to value womanhood and teach her she is a daughter of God.
And we live after the manner of Happiness
Found in the temple
Covenant keeping
Protect your home, don’t allow things to come in and affect the keeping of your covenants.
Teach your children the value of making and keeping covenants.
Young women worry about their fathers,
They want you to be there when they go to the temple
When she turns 12 take her to the temple
Your example speaks louder than our important words
As fathers, preside over your family with love and righteousness.
You are the guardian of your daughters, wives and family, and not just in the legal sense
Protect the intrusion of evil into the minds and spirits of your children.
A priesthood holder is vitreous: pure thoughts and clean actions.
Join us in leading the world to virtue
Practice by eliminating evil from your life
Scripture: Let virture garnish thy thoughts.
Your personal virtue will model for sons and daughters what true straight and moral courage are.
Show your wife and daughter what true love really is.
Be present in your daughters life.
Get to know her friends and when the time comes Boy Friends
Be an ACTIVE part in her life.
GO GET HER if she is late on a date
She will resist but she will learn to know your love for her.
Your personal purity will give you power.
You are not ordinary men. Because of your valiance in the pre-mortal life, your priesthood sets you apart and you are here on earth to do the same thing.
Always remember: “That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.” D&C 121:36
The fathers honoring priesthood in the home will set the standard your daughter will want.
Fathers are your daughters hero!
Alma 19:16-29 This young woman, following the example of her father, helped convert a nation!
Love her mother!
Your testimony has a powerful testimony upon your daughters.
Look for your ways to spend TIME with your daughter.
Pres Uchtdorf’s October 2010 Talk - Of Things that Matter Most.
If all men were be, and had be like unto Moroni. (Alma 48:17)
Be loyal to the royal within you.
Fathers have been entrusted with the royal daughters of our Heavenly Father.

Music Monday–We Ever Pray for Thee

2012-01-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

What They Said Wednesday–Pres. Dieter F. Uchtdorf

2012-01-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

Full Talk

Talk: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - Second Counselor in the First presidency
65 years ago, he remembers the acts of love and the shipment of blankets and food following WWII.
Welfare not just a branch of the tree, but at the very root
If you impart not of the bounty the Lord has given us, you will get cast to hell with the wicked.
All laws are spiritual, temporal just as important. We lose out if our hands are not lifted in the service of others
Spiritual progress is bound to our service to others.
This is not a program of give me, it is a program of self help. The stake members grew
from the experience of pitching in and rebuilding the AZ town after the flood.
Welfare is revealed truth, the Lords way of providing for his saints
1 - Care for the needy
2 - ??
3 - Self reliance
Study the Lords way, then figure it out out for yourself
Draw out thy heart to the needy, and the Lord shall guide thee.
IT is our privilege to put the priesthood to work, the temporal is intertwined with the spiritual.

Music Monday–With Songs of Praise

2012-01-09T08:39:00.000-07:00

What They Said Wednesday–Elder D. Todd Christofferson

2012-01-04T08:47:00.000-07:00

Full Talk

Talk: D. Todd Christofferson - Quorum of the Twelve
Mormon thought it was important to include the story of Nehor in the Book of Mormon.
Korihor preached as Nehor did, that:
Every man conquered according to his strengths
Denied sin and anything such
Whatever anyone feels is right is right
God will only beat us with a few stripes and then let us return to Him
Repentance is the condition, and the Grace of Christ is the power by which we can return to our Father in Heaven.
The prophetic call should be received with joy.
Pretending there is no sin, does not lessen it’s pain.
Repentance is a divine gift. We should have a smile on our faces when we speak of it.
Repentance: it points us to freedom and confidence and peace.
The gift of repentance is a cause for true celebration
We know that justification, or forgiveness of sin, through Jesus Chris is just and true.
5 aspects of this fundamental gospel principle
1. Invitation to repent is an expression of love.
The Savior invites us to repent so we may become like He is and have the eternal life that He has
2. Repentance means striving to change
It is a mockery for us to think that Christ should transform us into angelic beings without our effort and faith = repentance.
We seek his grace to complement and reward our most diligent efforts.
There is something holy in such striving
He that cannot abide a celestial law, could not abide in a Celestial Glory.
3. Not just abandon sin but COMMITTING to obedience.
Turn to the lord with all your mind might and strength
Baptismal covenant = our covenant of obedience to Him
He showeth unto the children that he humble himself unto the father and keepeth the commandments.
Repentance is incomplete without this baptismal covenant.
The choice to repent is the choice to burn bridges in every direction, having determined to follow only the one way to return to Him
4. Repentance requires a seriousness of purpose and a willingness to persevere, even through pain.
True repentance is not superficial.
if you repent, you confess and forsake
not a “check off the boxes” approach, with numbered steps
much more than a casual “I admit it! I’m sorry!”
Deep agonizing recognition with sorrow.
Bitter tears and deep regret
Through the love and Atonement of our Savior, deep despair turns into hope.
Resolve to abandon and forsake the sin forms in that NEW heart.
the once appealing sin becomes abhorrent
my soul is filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain (Alma)
The Savior spoke little about what he endured except for this one scripture:
“I have suffered these things for all that they might not have to suffer if they repent” (D&C 19:16-19)
5. Whatever the cost of repentance, it is swallowed up in the joy of forgiveness
April 1847 Brigham Young lead Pioneers out of Winter quarters at the same time as the Donner party escaped the mountains
Spent winter
Starvation
John Breen... Describes camp near Johnston Ranch as blue and beautiful.
Pres. Packer - How can he forget all the struggles and suffering
Same as a person who truly repents. He who repents the same is forgiven, and I the Lord remember them no more
The suffering, death of our Lord bring to pass the condition of repentance.
I invite all to repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand. In accepting this invitation, you will find joy, both now and forever.

Music Monday–The Morning Breaks

2012-01-02T16:38:00.001-07:00

What They Said Wednesday–President Boyd K. Packer

2011-12-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Talk: Pres. Boyd K. Packer

A message to the youth

Today’s youth are better educated in the gospel
What does the old crow not know? How to go fast. What does the young crow not know? where to go. (Full Text of the Poem)
Young people are being raised in enemy territory. with a declining standard of morality
Today there are wars and rumors of war. Gospel is the grand plan of happiness (gives peace)
Gender is an essential characteristic, established in pre-mortality
You face physical temptations but you have power over the enemy.
Prophet Joseph Smith said, “All those with physical bodies have power over those who do not.” That means we have power over the adversary, if we want.
“I’ll lean on their testimony until I can get my own”
The voice of the Spirit comes as a feeling rather than as a sound.
Those who know about Spiritual communication understand that divine words are more felt than heard. Essence and power of metaphor.
Major mistakes will always be forewarned of by the Spirit
You may think that you are now lost. That is never true.
The outcome of this war is not in question: Lucifer will lose!
“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, except he reveal it unto his servants the prophets” - Amos 3:7
“Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
“You might feel you won’t have time to do all these things. Not so. You’ll have time to see your children, grandchildren and perhaps you great-grandchildren.”
He invoked a blessing upon the youth in closing (Apostolic blessing).

What They Said Wednesday–Elder W. Christopher Waddell

2011-12-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

Talk: Elder W. Christopher Waddell - First Quorum of the Seventy

Tells the story of a Spanish Elder sent to the US who meets the less-active man who converted his father years ago. He was sent to US to show the man he is not a failure.
If you desire a blessing, abide the rules associated with it.
From the Story of the Hebrews in Egypt, he reminds us that the sacrifice and blood are not enough without the application of it to the door posts.
Mission preparation
- 1 arrive with a testimony
- 2 arrive worthy of the Holy Ghost
- 3 arrive ready to work
The blessings of eternity await you

What They Said Wednesday–President Henry B. Eyring

2011-11-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

Talk: Henry B. Eyring - First Presidency

Stand with God in the first resurrection that you may have eternal life.
Message of encouragement
Directs us upward and toward Eternal Life
1. Become charitable
- Day of service, 1,000+ organized across the world
- Prayed to god for who we should serve and who should participated
- That they would feel the love of God
- King Benjamin “when you are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your god.”
- The Lord is keeping his promises to you as you keep your promises to him!
- As you serve others, he lets you feel his love.
2. Witnesses of God
- We have promised to be his witness throughout our lives
- He spoke at college graduation by default as President Hinckley was not able to
- He was told he could NOT be a witness of Christ as he spoke at the graduation
- He felt like he needed to be as the sons of Mosiah- and testify of Christ - even in the face of grave danger.
- He prepared - and like the Red Sea parting - a newspaper article about the universities service (something they had in common with the church). And in his speech he testified that it was Christ that led them to do this service.
- He wasn’t sure how this speech would be received but the audience stood and applauded AND he was told later by the president of the university that he had heard the words of God in his speech.
- The effect of the Book of Mormon character is certain
  - Will lift
  - Will guide
  - Will embolden you
- Miracles are happening every sacrament meeting with people teaching each other with deep conviction.
3. Promise to endure
- Be ready to get up and go to work.
- Take courage from the example of Moroni. Wrote, “Come unto Christ... Grace sufficient for you that you may become perfect.”
- Moroni taught us what heaven requires of us.
- “my whole frame doth tremble at this time....” (Mosiah 2:30)
- Deny yourself of all unGodliness
- 1. Full conversion
  - Build us
  - Return to, and drink deeply and often of the Book of Mormon
- “Sure witness” of Christ.
BOM is the best guide to know how we are doing!!!

What They Said Wednesday–Dallin H. Oaks

2011-11-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

Talk: Dallin H. Oaks - Quorum of the Twelve

Three Questions About Jesus Christ:
“What think ye of Christ?” Matthew 22:42
What do you really believe about Christ?
- Perspective 1: Teacher, but not divine?
- Perspective 2: Only Begotten Son
What are you doing because of that belief?

Truths the Scriptures Teach us About Jesus:
- Heavenly Father affirms Jesus’ divinity
- If ye know me, ye know my Father
- Jesus is in the express image of God the Father’s person
- Jesus Christ was the creator of all things
- Jesus Christ testified that he was Jehovah
- Jesus Christ is the life and light of the world
  - Life - Because He is the creator
  - Way & Light - Because his teachings show us the way back to the Father; He is our creator and through his resurrection we will all live again.
- Who will enter the kingdom of Heaven?
  - “Only He that doeth the will of my Father”
  - Those that “hear His voice”
  - Role of Priesthood Power (Keys)
    - Keys to seal and bind on earth and in heaven
    - Even the devils are subject to mortals through Jesus’s name
People Praise Jesus as a great teacher but disrespect his divinity.

We must return to what Jesus has said, who he was, and what he did.
He was the only begotten son, and that we must believe in him to be saved. John 3:16-17
This is my beloved son, hear him
I am come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly”
- (?What does it mean to have life more abundantly?)
He lights our mortal path and lead back to him.
The Savior’s path was about doing the father’s will. And we return to the Father through doing the Father’s will.
I never knew you... depart from me oh ye that do iniquity.
Jesus showed us how to do the will of the Father, and he invited us to “follow him.”
Keys were given to the Twelve & the Seventy.
- The keys to seal and bind on earth and in heaven.
He guides us through his commandments.
Contention is not the doctrine of Christ.
- (Makes us wonder how we can influence the world for good if we have unpleasant relations with other religions.)
Focus on Christ, not the things of the world
Contrast between mortal versus eternal nourishment
Jesus Christ’s Resurrection & Atonement
- Takes away the sin of the world
- The Son of Man came to minister and give His life as a ransom for many
- His blood of the New Testament, shed for the remission of sins
- That we may know He is the God of Israel and of the whole earth
- What do WE have to do?
  - Overcome the spiritual death that results from sin
  - Make and keep sacred covenants (= washing our garments in His blood)
  - “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith”
    - Where are our loyalties?
    - How is our behavior?
    - Do we honor His name?
    - Do we keep His commandments?
    - Do we seek not to
“Living bread” that they might not hunger.
(What other scriptural parallels can we associate with bread?)
- Woman who gave her last bit of meal to make a cake for Elijah, ended up with oil
- and meal that didn’t fail until the heavens were opened again
Seek and ye shall find.
Jesus taught further precious truth about his Atonement. “my father sent me that I might be lifted up on the cross that I might draw all men unto me.“ 3 Nephi 27:14-
Where is our ultimate loyalty?
- There is no middle ground.
Don’t use a Visa to visit Babylon. Live in Zion.
The most important knowledge on earth is that He is ?
We may know, thorough the Holy Ghost for ourselves, and we can gain this knowledge for ourselves via desire and obedience
- Desire - “Ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you” Matthew 7:7
- Obedience - If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God or whether I speak of myself John 7:17

#CESFiresideNotes–November 6th 2011

2011-11-04T12:58:00.000-06:00

For those that which to participate, I will be opening a Doc to take notes during this Sunday’s CES Fireside by President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The notes will be in the same format as General Conference. See links above to familiarize yourself if you are new. It appears it will be live on BYUTV 6:00 PM (MST). You can also listen online through the CES Fireside website. So if you are home and you with to participate live that is great. If you are attending and wish to add anything that might have been missed please add it following.
Notes

2011 November CES Devotional for Young Adults

2011-11-03T12:46:00.001-06:00

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has invited all young adults ages 18 through 30, married and single, to participate in a Church Educational System devotional with President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, at 6:00 p.m. mountain standard time on November 6, 2011.

The one-hour broadcast will originate from the Brigham Young University campus in Provo, Utah. The Church satellite system will subsequently rebroadcast the devotional to many areas of the world.

There are several ways to watch and listen:

This broadcast will be available in English on Mormon Channel HD Radio and the following BYU Broadcasting services: BYU Television (BYUtv), BYU Radio, KBYU‑TV (Eleven), and KBYU‑FM Radio (Classical 89). It will be available in Spanish and Portuguese on BYU Television International.

Live audio and video of the broadcast will be available online at 6:00 p.m. mountain standard time at cesdevotionals.lds.org. An audio-only live broadcast can be accessed at mormonchannel.org at the same time.

Within three weeks of the event, audio and video of the devotional will be archived online at cesdevotionals.lds.org in more than two dozen languages.

Check local program listings for availability in your area, or visit broadcastinfo.lds.org,mormonchannel.org, or byubroadcasting.org for more broadcast information.

https://lds.org/church/events/2011-november-ces-devotional-for-young-adults?lang=eng

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

2011-11-02T11:50:00.001-06:00

Talk: Elder Jeffrey R. Holland - Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Looking for men to sign on and speak up, we are at war. He will be a one man recruiting station, looking for missionaries.
I wish to speak candidly.
Joseph Smith’s first vision showed a confrontation to destroy the boy.
- 1. Satan is real; his motives are malicious
- 2. He is eternally opposed to the love of God, The Atonement
  - He knows he isn’t going to win, but he is determined to take as many spirits that he can.
Satan cannot take a life, but he can bind the tongue of the faithful.
We want battalions to take weapons as the word of God.
Aaronic Priesthood take note: We are in a life and death contest, Elder Holland is up in our face. Bringing enough fire to singe our eye brows.
We need to be more morally clean than we are. Can't play for the adversary then suit up for the savior when we want.
Stay on the team, stop dribbling out of bounds.
The Lord has drawn lines, you can't travel down forbidden paths, and then challenge others to follow the strait path.
There is hope, it is the miracle of forgiveness. Be active and stay clean, or get active and clean up.
He is grabbing us by the lapels and shouting “hark the sound of battle is ringing, come join the ranks.”
Couples are very needed. To encourage couples, housing for couples is supplemented, and length of the mission can be shortened.
Brethren, tell your wives that if you can leave the remotes, they can leave the grandkids for a few short months. There is no better gift to our children than to see their parents and grandparents serving the Lord
Bishops look for impressions for those who should be called to the field. Counsel with them.
We need a lot more missionaries opening the gate and helping others through it. We need voices not only against evil, but for good, helping those who know not where to find it.
Unbind your tongue, wonders for those that look for the truth that cannot find it.
Stay by the Colors - We’re joyfully marching to our home. (We are all Enlisted)

What They Said Wednesday–Sister Julie B. Beck

2011-10-26T09:41:00.001-06:00

Talk: Julie B Beck

Titled “What I hope my granddaughters will understand about Relief Society”
- granddaughters are YW age
Relief Society is organized after a pattern of discipleship that existed in the ancient church
The Savior visited in the home of Mary, Martha
We learn about other women in the New Testament who worked to build the church
As the church was lost to apostasy, the pattern of discipleship by women was lost
A few months after the church was restored, the Lord called Emma to help her husband as he worked for the church. He asked her to strengthen families and homes, increase in personal righteousness, serve others
As missionaries went out in the early days of the church, they were able to go because they had wives who stayed home and were able to carry on the work in their homes
When the RS was organized, Emma was called as president with two counselors
- Not chosen by popular vote like worldly organizations, but called by the Lord in His order
The first RS presidency knew they could teach, lead, inspire the early sisters to strengthen families and homes, increase in righteousness, seek others to serve
I hope my granddaughters value the temple
- Temple blessings are the grand prize for every latter-day woman
Through the blessings of the temples, we promise to live as committed disciples
Importance and influence of WORLDWIDE relief society
As church has grown, RS is able to fulfill its purposes in every ward and branch around the world and able to adapt to a changing ward
Sisters around the world have many many challenges
- purpose of RS--to provide relief to lift them above the challenges of life and bring them closer to the Lord
The work we are asked to do has never been too small or too inconsequential to the Lord
RS can provide a haven of safety, refuge, protection
Visiting Teaching is an expression of discipleship
At times, we have focused more on messages, notes, cookies. This could be compared to a lower law.
We need to move to a higher law--demonstrate your discipleship by truly caring for your sisters
You have the responsibility to love each sister, strengthen her faith, and look for opportunities for service
To the Lord--it is the CARING that counts, not the lists of things to do
We will be successful at VT when our sisters can say “My visiting teacher helps me grow spiritually. She cares about me. If I have problems, she will help me without waiting to be invited.”
Through VT, a RS pres can be informed on the well being of every sister
These teachings about VT and the history of RS can be found in Daughters in My Kingdom
It is for you to lead the world--especially the women of the world

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Richard G. Scott

2011-10-19T08:30:00.001-06:00

Talk: Richard G Scott (Quorum of the Twelve)

We feel the power of your prayers and need them
Challenges are necessary for progress
Scriptures:
- Heavenly Father has inspired inspired men to record solutions to many problems
- They are inspired of the Holy Ghost and therefore are pure truth. We do not need to worry about the validity of the Standard Works (OT, NT, BoM and D&C).
- They are always available when needed
- Great power can come from memorizing scriptures. It’s like a new friend - providing motivation and inspiration when needed and
- Can be a key to unlocking …..
- They provide a foundation of support
- They can accelerate physical healing and provide emotional healing
- (He quoted many scriptures) eg Proverbs 3:5-6
- NT: Source of diamond truth. Thou shalt love the Lord They God with all they heart.... thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself
Be diligent in keeping the commandments of God. ALWAYS returning thanks unto God.
Have Faith, Hope and Charity and you will always about in good works
See you have Charity... (Moroni 7).
Charity is the pure love love Christ.
His wife Jeanene loved the Book of Mormon. She confirmed early in hear life that those that read the Book of Mormon have a stronger testimony of the divinity of God and a stronger resolve to live the gospel.
1991 - wanted to give a special gift to his family. Quote from his journal: He completed and audio reading of the Book of Mormon for his family. I testify the Book of Mormon is true. All who would study it’s message in humility and faith - will know of it’s true. They will have greater peace in this life!
I testify to all THIS BOOK IS TRUE!

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Neil L. Anderson

2011-10-13T08:34:00.001-06:00

Wait but it is Thursday… Ooops.

Talk: Neil L. Anderson - Quorum of the Twelve

It is a crowning privilege for parents to bear children
“We believe in families and we believe in children”
Our Heavenly Father’s plan includes bringing children into this mortal life
Before immortality, There must be mortality.
God’s commandment to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force
When to have a child and how many to have are between the parents and the Lord.
- decisions that require sincere prayer and great faith
“Where once the standards of the Church and the standards of society were mostly compatible, now there is a wide chasm between us and it is growing ever wider....We can be in the world but not of the world as we reject false concepts and false teachings and remain true to that which God has commanded. “--President Monson (April 2010)
Many voices in the world today marginalize or voice in delaying of having children..
Motherhood is not a hobby. It is a calling. You do not collect children because you find them cuter than stamps. It’s not something you do if you can squeeze the time in. It’s what God gave you time for.”
Thank you, for creating in the church, a sanctuary for families with children
“Would the Lord want you to break one of His commandments to become a doctor? You can do both! Where is your faith?”
- A child was born less than a year later.
This is a time of economic instability
There is no shame in a couple having to scrimp and save! It is generally during these challenging times that you will grow closer together as you learn to make difficult decisions.
Jacob and Joseph were born to Lehi in the wilderness --”as my first born in the wilderness of mine afflictions”
The Savior only had a manger to lay his head.
In the best of times, and the worst of times--LDS people acting in faith have never forgotten the Lord’s commandment to multiply and replenish the earth
We go forward in faith. The decision on how many children to have it private for a husband and a wife. This can be a sensitive issue.
To women who may not have the opportunity to marry and have a family--thank you for your example and for helping those who do have families
The bearing of children can also be a difficult thing for those who desperately want children and cannot or for those that want a large family and only have a small family.
Some times life can seem unfair, especially when we try (everything we can?)
As the Lord’s servant, I promise you--faithful members who do what they can to keep the commandments of the Lord will receive the blessings He has promised
Whosoever shall receive these children in my name receiveth me. And whosoever receiveth me--receiveth my Father which sent me.
Children ARE a great blessing! They will bring us happiness in this life and the eternities!

What They Said Wednesday–President Thomas S. Monson

2011-10-05T08:20:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Thomas S. Monson President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

We HAVE felt the Spirit of the Lord in rich abundance.
Read and study the talks
Expresses love and appreciation
May we be good citizens of the countries where we live
Reach out to others, as well as to our own
Be an example of honesty and integrity wherever we go.
Keep praying for all the authorities of the church
Thank you for the prayers!
In 3 weeks’ time, the entire Christian world will be celebrating Easter. I’m grateful everyday of my life for his atoning sacrifice in our behalf.
- None of us can conceive the full importance of what our Savior did for us in Gethsemane
- He could have turned back but he did not.
- In doing so, he gave us life beyond this mortal existence and reclaimed us from the fall of Adam.
- He taught us how to live and how to die.
- He secured our salvation.
Empty Linen by Emily Harris

The linen which once held Him is empty.
It lies there,
Fresh and white and clean.
The door stands opened.
The stone is rolled away,
And I can almost hear the angels singing His praises.
Linen cannot hold Him.
Stone cannot hold Him.
The words echo through the empty limestone chamber,
“He is not here.”
The linen which once held Him is now empty.
It lies there,
Fresh and white and clean
And oh, hallelujah, it is empty.
-- The New Era, April 2011

“Blessings to you, brothers and sisters.”

What has left you thinking?

2011-10-03T09:04:00.001-06:00

It has been over 12 hours since we all said, “Amen” to 181st Semi-annual General Conference. Most of us are returning to our jobs, getting the kids back to school, or attempting to get back to a normal routine. Hopefully, however, there is a talk, phrase, or principle that is on your mind creating a new resolve for the next six months. Please share your thoughts of the past conference and what your new goals are until April 2012.

The Conference Talks can be found here. If there is anything more you can add, please do. There are probably scripture/talk links which could be added for easy cross referencing. The notes will remain editable for a few days then changed to read-only mode. If after that time there is something you would like to add, request permissions through the “share” button on the session notes.

Daily tweets will be sent through @ldsconfnotes. “What they said Wednesday” will post the full notes along with the video of a talk weekly.

Thanks for everyone’s hard work. It has been a great success. Lets resolve to cherish this form of modern day scripture until we meet again.

Sunday PM Session

2011-10-02T13:55:00.000-06:00

To help take notes please click here (General Public). By specific Request here.

There is a max of 50 people that can be on. If you don’t get in at first and would like to help please keep trying. People filter in and out.
Please reference previous sessions to see how the notes are organized.
Due to the max number please remember to be courteous and allow all to participate. As more than one person might feel a phrase/thought is important at the same time duplication could be a problem. As this cannot be controlled if someone else is writing the same item which you were going to write, who ever started first wins. Please feel free to add any additional points following. Any cross references or other insight are encouraged. Put any personal thoughts should be indented and in italics. If you have any questions please us the chat window on the right.
Editing will be available for a time period after all sessions, please come back and add anything that was missed.
If you could also at sometime take the survey to provide honest feedback.
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Sunday AM Session

2011-10-02T09:55:00.000-06:00

To help take notes please click here. There is a max of 50 people that can be on. If you don’t get in at first and would like to help please keep trying. People filter in and out.

Please reference previous sessions to see how the notes are organized.

Due to the max number please remember to be courteous and allow all to participate. As more than one person might feel a phrase/thought is important at the same time duplication could be a problem. As this cannot be controlled if someone else is writing the same item which you were going to write, who ever started first wins. Please feel free to add any additional points following. Any cross references or other insight are encouraged. Put any personal thoughts should be indented and in italics. If you have any questions please us the chat window on the right.

Editing will be available for a time period after all sessions, please come back and add anything that was missed.

If you could also at sometime take the survey to provide honest feedback.

Priesthood Session

2011-10-01T19:55:00.000-06:00

To help take notes please click here. There is a max of 50 people that can be on. If you don’t get in at first and would like to help please keep trying. People filter in and out.
Please reference previous sessions to see how the notes are organized.
Due to the max number please remember to be courteous and allow all to participate. As more than one person might feel a phrase/thought is important at the same time duplication could be a problem. As this cannot be controlled if someone else is writing the same item which you were going to write, who ever started first wins. Please feel free to add any additional points following. Any cross references or other insight are encouraged. Put any personal thoughts should be indented and in italics. If you have any questions please us the chat window on the right.
Editing will be available for a time period after all sessions, please come back and add anything that was missed.
If you could also at sometime take the survey to provide honest feedback.
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Saturday PM Session

2011-10-01T13:55:00.000-06:00

Saturday AM Session

2011-10-01T09:55:00.000-06:00

To help take notes please click here. There is a max of 50 people that can be on. If you don’t get in at first and would like to help please keep trying. People filter in and out.

Please reference previous sessions to see how the notes are organized.

Editing will be available for a time period after all sessions, please come back and add anything that was missed.

If you could also at sometime take the survey to provide honest feedback.

All Members Invited to Participate in October General Conference

2011-09-30T14:41:00.001-06:00

The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles invite all members of the Church to participate in the 181st Semiannual General Conference on Saturday and Sunday, October 1 and 2, 2011.

Messages will be given by the First Presidency, members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and other General Authorities and general officers of the Church.

General sessions will be held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., followed by the priesthood session at 6:00 p.m. mountain daylight time. Two more general sessions will be held on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. mountain daylight time; the morning session includes the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word.

The preceding week, on September 24, 2011, the general Relief Society meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. mountain daylight time.

Viewing Live

Members can watch conference in their meetinghouses or in their homes.

For viewing conference at local meetinghouses, check with local leaders on availability of the broadcast by satellite or Internet feed.

Live broadcasts will be available at the following locations:

Conference.lds.org: video and audio in multiple languages
Mormonchannel.org and Mormon Channel mobile apps: video and audio in English only
BYU.tv: video and audio in multiple languages
Facebook.com/LDS: video in English only (Choose “General Conference” from the left menu.)
Roku Channel: video only in multiple languages (Search for general conference under the “Spiritual” category.)

In addition, many local cable and radio stations make the conference readily available. Visit www.bonneville.info for broadcast information or check local listings.

Attending Live

Tickets to attend conference can be obtained through local Church leaders for members living in the United States or Canada. Visitors from other countries who wish to attend conference may obtain tickets at the Conference Center Ticket Office, located at door 5 of the Conference Center, from September 26 through October 2, 2011. They will need to show both a passport and form I-94 to receive tickets.Guidelines for those attending in person can be found online.

The Conference Center doors open 90 minutes before each conference session. Tickets ensure a seat in the Conference Center until 30 minutes before the session begins. During the last 30 minutes seats are made available to those in the standby line. Only those eight years of age or older are admitted.

Inviting Others to Participate

The Church’s Facebook page includes a General Conference event that members can use to invite their friends and associates to participate in conference. In addition, the General Conference link in the left menu can be used to embed a video stream of general conference onto a personal blog or website.

Reviewing Archives

Within 24 hours after a conference session concludes, video and audio files of that session will be available in 12 languages in video format and in more than 70 languages in audio format. The Thursday following general conference, text of all talks will be posted in English at conference.lds.org. The November issue of the Liahona and Ensign will feature conference addresses. More information on what and when conference materials become available can be accessed online.

To watch or listen to past conference addresses visit the General Conference section of LDS.org.

http://lds.org/church/events/all-members-invited-to-participate-in-october-general-conference?lang=eng

Temples?

2011-09-30T08:54:00.001-06:00

Comment on how many new temples will be announced. Where do you think they will be located?

General Conference Family Traditions

2011-09-28T08:35:00.001-06:00

What are your favorite family traditions when it comes to General Conference? Please share in the comment section.

What They Said Wednesday–President Thomas S. Monson

2011-09-28T08:15:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Thomas S. Monson

Bishop of the ward is given the responsibility to care for those within the boundaries of his ward. When he was Bishop - grateful for the great Welfare program and the service of the RS sisters.
Three years since he was sustained as Prophet.
21 temples built → 115 Temples Both in 30 year periods.
- Chronological list of temples
- 26 Temple under construction or in Pre-construction stages

Revelation: Temples bring joy to faithful members!
- No matter how far your temple may be, it IS a blessing to attend--especially when it is a sacrifice.
Saints Travel from Manaus to Sao Paulo Temple
- Google Map of trip distance
The Saints at Kirtland were impoverished, but the Lord commanded them to build a temple. So build it they did.
Temples are more than stone and mortar. They are filled with faith and fasting. They are built of trials and testimonies. They are sanctified by sacrifice and service.
Why are so many willing to give so much for the blessings of the temple?
- Blessing will always out weight any sacrifice.
There are NEVER too many miles to travel, too many difficulties to overcome.

The saving ordinances received in the temple are worth every sacrifice and every effort.
Worth EVERY sacrifice and EVERY hardship to be endowed with that power and strength
Some of the most treasured family experiences are to go as a family and participate in the saving ordinances for others
85% of the church membership lives within 200 miles of a temple.
If you have not yet been to the temple or currently do not qualify to go, there is no greater goal than to qualify.
- Secure a temple recommend and regard it as the precious treasure that it is.
Teenagers “ALWAYS HAVE THE TEMPLE WITHIN YOUR SIGHTS!”
- This was a huge message of the last General YW meeting--focus on the day you will be sealed in the temple and let your goal to be worthy for that day direct your actions
It would be a fine thing if parents would have in every bedroom a picture of the temple. -Spencer W. Kimball
The Rome temple is being built in the city where Peter, Paul preached the gospel of Christ
- And where they were martyred for their testimonies
In a coming day--the saints in this city will be able to participate in saving ordinances
Rome, Italy Temple and construction photographs.
Each temple stands as a beacon, an expression of testimony that God lives, that He desires to bless us and all generations.
Life beyond the grave is as real and certain as is our life here on earth--we can participate in the ordinances for ourselves and for those who have passed beyond.
Make whatever sacrifices are necessary to attend the temple of the Lord

Favorite Conference Talk

2011-09-27T08:17:00.001-06:00

Think back to a conference talk which has touched your spirit with inspiration, or a greater knowledge of our Heavenly Father’s love. Please share that talk here. Reponses will be shown below.

How are you preparing for General Conference?

2011-09-26T08:41:00.001-06:00

Please share any thoughts here (Now working). Responses will be updated below.

How do I prepare myself and my family for general conference?

General conference is intended to be a revelatory experience as participants learn from living prophets and apostles through the power and influence of the Holy Ghost. Proper preparation will help ensure that you get the most out of the conference experience.
Read President Uchtdorf's recent counsel.
View conference activities for children.
Read how to prepare your children.
Review the blessings of general conference.
Review the highlights from last conference.
http://lds.org/general-conference/about-general-conference?lang=eng#myself-and-family

Calling all Sisters

2011-09-23T10:11:00.001-06:00

Following the General Relief Society Meeting please come share and collaborate your notes here.

General Relief Society Meeting to Be Held on September 24, 2011

24 September 2011

Date: 24 September 2011
Location: Worldwide

Relief Society sisters worldwide are invited to view the satellite broadcast of the general Relief Society meeting, which will be held on Saturday, September 24, 2011, at 6:00 p.m. (MDT) and will be broadcast to many areas of the world.

All sisters 18 years of age and older are encouraged to gather together in meetinghouses to view the broadcast.

Video of the broadcast will also be available live in American Sign Language, English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish at conference.lds.org. Additional languages will be available as a live audio broadcast at the same site. Archives of the broadcast will be available in those same languages at the same site within 24 hours. Live audio will also be available in English at mormonchannel.org.

Those wishing to attend in person can contact the ticket office for more information.

Taken from:

**Official Web site of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
© 2011 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All Rights Reserved

http://lds.org/church/events/general-relief-society-meeting-to-be-held-on-september-24-2011?lang=eng

Get Ready for Conference

2011-09-22T08:26:00.001-06:00

General Conference—No Ordinary Blessing

BY PRESIDENT DIETER F. UCHTDORF
Second Counselor in the First Presidency

General Conference—No Ordinary Blessing

A fine member of the Church was talking with a neighbor who was not of our faith. When the topic of discussion turned to general conference, the neighbor asked, “You say you have prophets and apostles? And twice a year in a worldwide conference they reveal the word of God?”

“Absolutely,” the member replied with confidence.

The neighbor thought about that for a moment. He seemed genuinely interested and then asked, “What did they say in the last general conference?”

At this point the good member of the Church went from feeling excited about sharing the gospel to feeling embarrassed. Try as he might, he couldn’t think of the details of a single talk.

His friend found this troubling and said, “You mean to tell me that God speaks to man in our day and you can’t remember what He said?”

The brother felt humbled by this exchange. He vowed that he would do better to remember the words spoken by the Lord’s servants in general conference.

We all know how hard it is to remember every message of general conference, and I’m confident that we need not be embarrassed if we don’t remember everything. Nevertheless, there are messages in each general conference given as a gift and a blessing from heaven specifically for our personal life situations.

In preparation for general conference, let me suggest three basic concepts that may help us to better receive, remember, and apply the words spoken by the Lord’s servants.

1. Members of the Church are entitled to personal revelation as they listen to and study the inspired words spoken at general conference.

As you prepare for general conference, I invite you to ponder questions you need to have answered. For example, you might yearn for direction and guidance by the Lord regarding challenges you are facing.

Answers to your specific prayers may come directly from a particular talk or from a specific phrase. At other times answers may come in a seemingly unrelated word, phrase, or song. A heart filled with gratitude for the blessings of life and an earnest desire to hear and follow the words of counsel will prepare the way for personal revelation.

2. Don’t discount a message merely because it sounds familiar.

Prophets have always taught by repetition; it is a law of learning. You will hear repetition in themes and doctrines in general conference. Let me reassure you: this is not due to a lack of creativity or imagination. We continue to hear messages on similar issues because the Lord is teaching and impressing upon our minds and hearts certain foundational principles of great eternal importance that must be understood and acted upon before we can move on to other things. A wise builder first lays the foundation before erecting the walls and the roof.

3. The words spoken at general conference should be a compass that points the way for us during the coming months.

If we listen to and follow the promptings of the Spirit, they will serve as a Liahona, guiding us through the unknown, challenging valleys and mountains that are ahead (see 1 Nephi 16).

Since the world began, God has raised up prophets who speak the will of heaven to the people of their times. It is our responsibility to listen and then apply the messages the Lord provides for us.

Our merciful and loving Heavenly Father has not forsaken and will not forsake His children. Today, as well as in times past, He has appointed apostles and prophets. He continues to reveal His word to them.

What a marvelous privilege it is to hear God’s messages for each of us during general conference! Let us prepare well for this great blessing of divine guidance delivered by His chosen servants.

For this is no ordinary blessing.

Teaching from This Message

•
Read the article together. Encourage the family to identify things to listen for during general conference.
•
To help young children apply the counsel given by President Uchtdorf, show them a General Authority chart (found in the conference issue of the Liahona and Ensign). Let them know that the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will be speaking in general conference. Encourage children to listen to conference and draw a picture to help them remember what they learned. Parents can visit conferencegames.lds.org for more conference activities for children.

Youth

Good, Better, Best

By Mary-Celeste Lewis

In his October 2007 general conference talk, Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles talked about activities that are “good, better, and best.” When he got to the part about “the overscheduling of children,” I squirmed guiltily in my seat.

I knew I was doing too much. I was in school plays, taking challenging classes in school, and was involved in several other activities. I hadn’t been attending Young Women activities faithfully, and my Sundays were filled with the stress of trying to complete last-minute homework. Practicing music and editing the school newspaper had lost their element of fun and had become work.

Elder Oaks’s talk made me take a good look at my schedule. My activities were good, but there were too many of them. I had to choose the best ones. As I tried to decide which activities to forsake, I realized that the gospel of Jesus Christ was the best priority anyone can have. I put prayer and scripture study at the top of my list, and since then, my life has run more smoothly.

Elder Oaks taught me that when we do what the Lord wants us to do first,everything else will fall neatly into place. If I study my scriptures before I play games or even before I do my homework, everything important will get done. When I base my life around the Lord, instead of adding Him in as an afterthought, my life has an added measure of peace and success.

Now I’m very careful to listen to the counsel given at general conference!

Illustration by Paul Mann

Children

I Can Find Answers through General Conference

President Uchtdorf teaches that if you think of some questions before general conference, the Lord can speak to you through His prophets and apostles during conference.

As a family or class, discuss what you need to learn, either individually or together. (For example: How do I strengthen my testimony? How should I deal with a problem at school?) On a piece of paper or in your journal, write down your questions.
In the weeks leading up to conference, you could think and pray about these questions.
Listen carefully during conference (it may help to take notes). Then write how the Lord—through Church leaders—answered your questions.
On another piece of paper, you could draw a picture of yourself doing what you learned.

Right: photograph by Les Nilsson

http://lds.org/liahona/2011/09/general-conference-no-ordinary-blessing?lang=eng

What They Said Wednesday–President Henry B. Eyring

2011-09-21T08:13:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Henry B. Eyring, 1st Counselor of the First Presidency

Keys for priesthood learning
- 1) Counsel together (this was the main idea, I missed the exact wording)
- 2) Have love for each other that comes from great faith
  - I'm not sure which comes first, but both seem to be there when rapid learning takes place
  - Discord, fault-finding, and jealousy inhibits the ability of the Holy Ghost to teach us
  - Some are peacemakers, they have a gift of helping others find common ground
- 3) Shared conviction about why the Lord loves us and trusts us to hold his priesthood, to labor for the salvation of man
  - See the great opportunity that God has given us to learn in his Priesthood school
  - Treasures of knowledge will be given us
  - Your family will become a place of learning.

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Richard J. Maynes

2011-09-14T07:49:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Richard J. Maynes of the Seventy - Establishing a Christ-Centered Home

Being offspring of a loving heavenly father is a basic principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ
“I Am a Child of God”, Children’s Songbook, 2
The family is a fundamental unit in the order of heaven

Establish a Christ-centered Home
- Family Home Evenings
  - FHE is not always convenient, easy or successful
- Scripture Study
- Over time became treasure
  - Not every session is going to be 100% successful but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t going to be important down the road.
- Responsibility lies upon the parents and the children
  - D&C 68:25 - The sin be upon the head of the parents.
Family Proclamation
FHE is not always convenient, easy or successful.
- The children might not remember the lesson later in the week, but they will remember that FHE was held.
- They might not recall the exact words of the scriptures or prayers, but they will remember the acts of prayer and reading scriptures
There is great power in establishing celestial traditions in the home.
Parable of the 1 sheep the strayed away.
“Echo” poem by C.C. Miller
- Quoted in the 1999 October Conference in the talk “Feed My Sheep.”
- Chills down my spine. This has such far reaching echos.
Kids can be like a strong rope keeping the family together.

#CESFiresideNotes – September 11th 2011

2011-09-09T09:37:00.001-06:00

For those that which to participate, I will be opening a Doc to take notes during this Sunday’s CES Fireside by Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The notes will be in the same format as General Conference. See links above to familiarize yourself if you are new. It appears it will be live on BYUTV 6:00 PM (MST). You can also listen online through the CES Fireside website. So if you are home and you with to participate live that is great. If you are attending and wish to add anything that might have been missed please add it following.

Is there any you can add?

Note will show up below.

What They Said Wednesday–Elder L. Tom Perry

2011-09-07T07:48:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

(Sabbath Day Observance)

Testifies that President Monson is the Prophet.
Old Testament testifies of life and people
New Testament - Savior should be the centerpiece of our lives
1 Timothy 4: Strength in purity
God rested in the creation and expect Children to do the same.
Sabbath Day Observance
- Worship
  - Adam & Eve were commanded when thrown out of the garden
- Sacrament
  - Christ established, shall ALWAYS do; to ALWAYS remember Him; to ALWAYS have His Spirit with us.
  - Center of Sabbath Day Observance
  - The Sacrament was made for Man; Not the Man made for the Sacrament
Priesthood Power
Keep unspotted
- Avoid worldly distractions
- Appropriate Sunday Attire (attitudes and actions follow)
Offer OUR Sacraments to the Lord
- We all make errors
- Melvin J. Ballard - Place for self investigations... Rectify our course.
- Covenant of our Baptism renewed
- Opportunity to minister to others
Rest from our labors
- Not just closing your business on Sundays
- Everyday work of our lives
  - Example: working from home, sports contests
Remember the blessings of ATTENDING Sacrament meetings
- Keeping His commandments = have His Spirit to be with us

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Richard G. Scott

2011-08-31T07:45:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

I have no power to describe the peace and serenity that I will be able to live with my beloved Jeanene and our children forever.
Two vital pillars for the Plan of Happiness: Marriage and Family
- Satan is RELENTLESSLY trying to destroy these institutions
The temple sealing has greater meaning as life unfolds and will help you find greater joy in mortality.
Elder Scott meant to fix the broken washer, but his wife told him to go play with his children---it really is what will make memories
Young Men: Don’t waste time in idle pursuits and get married. Make it your priority.
- Get on with life!
- Show young woman that you are an exceptional person, show her some ingenuity
- If you want to have a wonderful wife, you need to have her see you as an exceptional man
- Date in worthwhile locations.
Are you faithful to your spouse mentally as well as physically?
- Never engage in a conversation with another person that you wouldn’t want your spouse to overhear
Brethren, do you lead the family spiritual activities? Or does your wife have to fill in your gaps? How often do you tell her that you love her? How often do you express gratitude for her?
It’s the little things in life--like the notes Elder Scott’s wife left--that strengthen a marriage
- “Jeanene, It’s time to tell you that I love you.”
Pure love is an incomparable, potent power for good.
- Foundation for a successful marriage
As a mother, you have been given divine instincts to help you sense your child’s special talents and unique capacities.
Marriage IS rewarding! It IS wonderful! It is so rewarding to be married. You have times when you are extremely happy, times of testing, and times of trial. The Lord guides you through all these experiences together.
One of the reasons we are counseled to get married early in life is to avoid developing inappropriate character traits that are hard to change.
Marriage provides an ideal setting for overcoming any tendency to be selfish or self-centered.
Sorrow for those who choose not to marry, and also for those who have not yet had the opportunity
All things are possible to the Lord.
- He keeps all the promises His Prophets declare.
- With certainty, you will receive each promised blessing for which you are worthy.
What a great example of what a marriage should be like

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Paul V. Johnson

2011-08-24T07:44:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Paul V. Johnson of the Seventy

Some trials in life can be excruciating
This earth life is the perfect setting to pass this test.

No pain that we suffer no trial we suffer is wasted... when we endure it patiently... makes us more charitable... that we gain the education we came to acquire - Orson F. Whitney
“No, you won’t be the same. You’ll be so much stronger. You’ll be awesome.”
No one is exempt
- Some may think, “I’m trying to be good... Why is the Lord allowing this to happen?”
- Being good is not enough
Crimson Trail - Logan Canyon Once on top, the views are breathtaking
- The only way to see the views is to make the climb.
“After much tribulation come the blessings” - Citation to Section 58:1-7
Mothers know the challenges of labor precede the blessings of birth.
Time after time, we see marvelous blessings on the heels of severe trials
- A particular challenge can prepare us for a future tribulations.
In retrospect, the trials of this life are light
- Must be viewed in comparison to the rewards of eternity and the gospel
His suffering was a prerequisite to the empty tomb that Easter Morning and our exaltation to the eternities.
No troubles or tribulations are beyond our strength.
- Because we have access to the Lord
We can do all things through Christ, who strengthens us. (Phillipians 4:13)
We shall be supported by our God and lifted up in the Last Day (Alma 36:3)
When we arrive on the other side of the veil, we want to be told more than, “Well, you’re done.” We want the Lord to say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Through the help of the Savior, we can not only overcome our trials, we can become more like Him and our Father in Heaven.
“Whosoever shall put their trust in God will be supported in their trials and lifted up at the last day.”

What They Said Wednesday–President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

2011-08-19T07:43:00.001-06:00

(Make up for missing last two weeks)

Talk: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, 2nd Counselor of the First Presidency

Story: Man wanted to sail the Mediterranean and tour Europe, saved for many years, finally booked passage on a ship and left. He was had so little money he took an extra suitcase full of canned food to eat. He saw the cities he wanted to see, but he did not attend any of the activities on the ship, he did not eat the meals, and mostly stayed in his cabin and ate his food. At the end of the voyage, a crew member asked which farewell party he would be attending and he realized that all the activities on the ship were included in the cost of passage. The man realized he had been living far beneath his privileges.
We sometimes live far beneath our privileges, opportunities, and rights that are ours as bearers of the Priesthood of God
We can recite a definition of the purpose of the priesthood, but rarely have daily examples of magnifying the
Priesthood is an everlasting principle
Keep our ‘Do it’ switch set at “Now,” not “Later” position, do not let a day go by without acting on the promptings of the spirit
The Lord’s instructions
- 1) Read the Owner's Manual
  - The priesthood of God has an owners manual
  - Scriptures and handbooks, in particular Doctrine & Covenants sections 20, 84, 107, 121
- 2) Seek revelations of the Spirit.
  - If we do not choose to seek this channel of revelation, we are living below are privileges
  - Revelations and testimony do not always come with overwhelming force
  - For many, it comes gradually, and we cannot recall the actual moment when we knew
- 3) Find joy in priesthood service
  - Am I merely going through the motions of being a priesthood bearer?
  - At times, assignments can feel like burdens, but do not go through life as a victim of the 3 dark Ws
    - Worried about the past
    - Worrying about the future
    - Whining about the present
  - Let us never become hardened to the wonder and awe of what the Lord has entrusted to us.
  - Find joy in serving your home teaching families.

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Dallin H. Oaks

2011-08-19T07:40:00.001-06:00

(Seems I have missed the last two weeks. Ooops!)

Talk: Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Importance of Desire

Desires dictate our priorities. Priorities shape our choices. Choices determine our actions
Desires to satisfy our needs compels our choices and determine our actions
Common Desires and overriding desires
- Food - fasting
- Shelter - camping
- Sleep - story of military unit from Richfield, Utah.
  - Commander stayed up all night to make sure his men stayed awake and safe.
  - “I knew if we ever got home I would be meeting the parents of those boys.”
3 Essentials
- Desire
- Labor
- Faith
  - Alma taught that faith begins with a desire to believe
Alma 22:18 - Aaron teaching the King of the Lamanites - I will give away all my sins to know thee.
The lord will judge all men according their works, according to the desire of their hearts (D&C 137:9).
- Are we prepared to have such dire consequences attached to our desires?
Readjusting our desires is not easy.
We often desire that worldly quartet: Property, prominence, pride, and power
How do we develop our desires?
- Begin with a desire for such qualities
Story of the Moab Hiker, Aron Ralston (from 127 Hours - that’s the correct spelling)
When we have a vision of what we can become our desire and our (power to …) increase enormously.
All of us face potential traps that can prevent our forward destiny.
We should remember that righteous desires cannot be superficial, temporary
- Must be heartfelt, unwavering, and permanent
- Must be willing to overcome ALL our sins
“What we consistently desire over time is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity.”
- Elder Neil A. Maxwell, October 1996, “According to the Desire of [Our] Hearts”
Important to LOSE desire to sin.
- Eternal beings forgive all who wrong them
- Welfare of other above themselves
- Will of God above theirs
All should desire and work towards a temple marriage.
- Back to the opening prayer - bring them into the “safety of the covenants.”
Each should reject the politically correct but utterly false disregard for the importance of marriage.
Guys and girls--don’t just hang out, don’t put career first--be prepared to commit and have a family.
Our desires dictate our priorities, our priorities shape our choices, and our choices determine our actions.

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Dallin H. Oaks

2011-08-03T09:35:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Importance of Desire

Desires dictate our priorities. Priorities shape our choices. Choices determine our actions
Desires to satisfy our needs compels our choices and determine our actions
Common Desires and overriding desires
- Food - fasting
- Shelter - camping
- Sleep - story of military unit from Richfield, Utah.
  - Commander stayed up all night to make sure his men stayed awake and safe.
  - “I knew if we ever got home I would be meeting the parents of those boys.”
3 Essentials
- Desire
- Labor
- Faith
  - Alma taught that faith begins with a desire to believe
Alma 22:18 - Aaron teaching the King of the Lamanites - I will give away all my sins to know thee.
The lord will judge all men according their works, according to the desire of their hearts (D&C 137:9).
- Are we prepared to have such dire consequences attached to our desires?
Readjusting our desires is not easy.
We often desire that worldly quartet: Property, prominence, pride, and power
How do we develop our desires?
- Begin with a desire for such qualities
Story of the Moab Hiker, Aron Ralston (from 127 Hours - that’s the correct spelling)
When we have a vision of what we can become our desire and our (power to …) increase enormously.
All of us face potential traps that can prevent our forward destiny.
We should remember that righteous desires cannot be superficial, temporary
- Must be heartfelt, unwavering, and permanent
- Must be willing to overcome ALL our sins
“What we consistently desire over time is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity.”
- Elder Neil A. Maxwell, October 1996, “According to the Desire of [Our] Hearts”
Important to LOSE desire to sin.
- Eternal beings forgive all who wrong them
- Welfare of other above themselves
- Will of God above theirs
All should desire and work towards a temple marriage.
- Back to the opening prayer - bring them into the “safety of the covenants.”
Each should reject the politically correct but utterly false disregard for the importance of marriage.
Guys and girls--don’t just hang out, don’t put career first--be prepared to commit and have a family.
Our desires dictate our priorities, our priorities shape our choices, and our choices determine our actions.

What They Said Wednesday–Pres. Henry B. Eyring

2011-07-27T09:32:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Henry B. Eyring First Counselor of the First Presidency

(Serve the Poor and Needy)

Honor and celebrate what the Lord has done and continues to do to help the poor and needy
Consecrate time for others
Covenant to lift up those in need
Renew and strengthen our commitment to act.
“Have I done any good in the world today” - Hymn 223
Sympathy → Decision to act
“Sweet is the Work” - Hymn 147
Include your children when the opportunity to serve arises...and that opportunity always arises. Your example will cultivate an attitude of serving that will last into adulthood.
Returning to the Bishop, “ Now what would you like us to do.”
We celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Church’s welfare program this year.
Principles of Welfare:
- 1. Everyone is happier and feels more self-respect when they can take care of their families and then reach out and help others.
  - Have a surplus → use less than what you have gained
  - “You cannot give yourself poorer in this work” - Marion G. Romney
  - A person cannot give a crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return.
- 2. Power and blessing of unity
  - Power and blessing of unity; when joining hands to serve, the Lord joins our hearts.
- 3. Draw your family into the work with you
  - Care to love each other as they care for others
- 4. Follow scriptural command to SEEK out the poor
  - Ask the Bishop
The Church is planning a worldwide Day of Service to celebrate:
- Plan service project
  - Prepare yourself
    - The Savior’s atonement can help
  - Choose people in the kingdom or community whose needs will touch the hearts of those who serve.
  - Draw upon the bond of families; quorum and auxiliary
You can know as I know

What They Said Wednesday–Elder D. Todd Christofferson

2011-07-20T09:30:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Our Heavenly Father is a God of high expectations
- Be ye therefore perfect (Matthew 5:48 / 3 Nephi 12:48)
He knows what is required, and so He provides His commandments and covenants, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and most importantly the Atonement and Resurrection of His Beloved Son to make our transformation possible.
It is not enough for us to just go through the motions--The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.
- “From such teachings we conclude that the Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become. It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.” (Elder Dallin H. Oaks, The Challenge to Become)
Attitude and practice we need to adopt
Correction is vital if we would conform our lives “unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” (speaking of Divine Chastening)
Divine chastening has at least three purposes:
- 1. Persuade us to repent
  - “For whom the Lord loveth, He chasteneth.” - Heb. 12:6
    - Brother of Jared - Failed to call upon the name of the Lord
- 2. Refine and sanctity us
  - “For all those who will not endure chastening, but deny me, cannot be sanctified.” D&C 101:5
  - In addition to stimulating our repentance, the experience of enduring chastening can refine us and prepare us for greater spiritual privileges.
- 3. Redirect our course to what God considers to be a better path
  - God uses chastening or correction to guide us to a future we cannot now envision, but which He knows is the better way.
  - Though it is often difficult to endure, truly, we ought to rejoice that God considers us worth the time and trouble to correct.
Trieth patience and Faith
Hugh B Brown - Story of the Currant Bush--Bought a Farm, decided to cut back bushes to stumps and notice a drop of water. “I am the gardener. I know what I am doing here. I know what I want you to do.”
- The Master knows what is best for us.
“Thank you Mr Gardener, for cutting me down. For loving me enough to hurt me.”
Perhaps some things you have heard in this conference have done persuaded you to repent
Correction can come from others, including spouses
- Example of Elder Richard G. Scott looking people in the eye when he speaks to them, when corrected by his wife.
When a person in a position to correct fails to do so, he is being selfish
Eventually, much of our chastening should come from within--we should become self-correcting.
- Yes, but it requires so much humility!
If we sincerely desire to measure up to the expectations of our Heavenly Father, He will comfort, strengthen, chasten.
One purpose of church leaders is for the “perfecting of the saints” (Ephesians 4:11-12)
Parents must chasten their children, if they are not to be case adrift.
Correction, hopefully gentle, can come from one’s spouse.
Parents can and must correct, even chasten to protect their children. Remember, correction must be shown with an “increase of love...lest he esteem thee to be his enemy. (D&C 121:43)

What They Said Wednesday–Bishop H. David Burton

2011-07-13T14:52:00.001-06:00

Talk: Bishop H. David Burton Presiding Bishop

Story: 1897 - David O McKay, knocking doors and giving out tracts was met by an haggard lady saying, “Will this buy me any bread?”
- I had a deeper realization that the Church of Christ should be and is interested in the temporal salvation of men
- That woman was in no condition to hear the word of God
April 6, 1936 - The Welfare Program of the Church (during the Great Depression)
- Melvin J Ballard was first Chairman, Harold B Lee first managing director.
A system to reach out and take care of people no matter what the cost
- Would be willing to close seminaries, temples, but would not let the people go hungry. Who said this? (isn’t this an interesting idea and dichotomy?)
We shall do all to assist in the way the Lord
“Many programs have been set up to help those in need. Most are set up with a short-sighted objective, helping people rather than helping people help themselves - Marion G. Romney
Personal responsibility and self-reliance.
Self reliance is a product of provident living
- Each generation is responsible to learn the principles of self reliance
- Avoid debt
- Prepare for times of distress
- Learn to be thrifty
- Learn to distinguish between needs and wants and live accordingly
Sacrifice and consecration are Celestial principles
- “We have all said that the Welfare Plan is not the United Order and was not intended to be. However, I should like to suggest to you that perhaps, after all, when the Welfare Plan gets thoroughly into operation … we shall not be so very far from carrying out the great fundamentals of the United Order.” Liahona, January 1980. (article link)
We give to the poor to “retain a remission of [our] sins.” (Mosiah 4:12, 26)
“No matter how many temples we build, no matter how large the church grows, if we don’t ‘succor the weak, lift up the hands that hang down, etc’, we are under condemnation and cannot please the Lord.”
South American Bishop organized a Ward Garden.
- Took upon themselves the yoke and burden of their brothers and sisters. +
Robert Taylor Burton: “Snow deep. So cold.” (11 degrees below zero) - Story told of young mother giving birth on the trek. She lacked clothing for her baby. Brother Burton took his own shirt and gave to the woman to wrap her baby.
Robert Taylor Burton: “Be kind to the poor.” (Matthew 25:38)
The Welfare system is not merely an interesting footnote in the church. The essence of who we are as examples of our savior and exemplar, Jesus Christ.
Now go, and do thou likewise (Luke 10:37)

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Neil L Andersen

2011-07-06T11:32:00.001-06:00

Talk: Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Talk directed at Priesthood holders aged 12 through 25 - We think about and pray for you constantly. (exhortation to serve a mission)
Do you ever wonder why you were sent at this time?
- Days of great opportunity and responsibility
- These are OUR days
  - We are to help prepare the world for the Second Coming
Lord needs missionaries
Missionary work requires sacrifice
- Story: Sidney Going chose to go to on mission in 1961 at age 18 instead of joining the world renowned New Zealand All-Blacks Rugby team. He thought of the opportunity not what he was leaving behind.
- Blessings always out weight anything.
- Don’t Think, “What will I get” but, “what can I give.”
Moses 7:62 - Righteousness will I send out of Heaven.
Daniel - Grow like a rolling rock.
D&C 29:7 - Ye are called to bring to pass my elect
1837 - missionaries called to England → Austria → Barbados → China
The sun never sets on the righteousness of missionary work.
Missionary Work requires Spiritual Work:
- Preparation and worthiness is issue to the sacred assignment
One might not be able to Serve; the Lord will open other doors
50% serve in their own home lands
Sidney Going is now serving an adult mission with his wife Colleen in Syndey, Australia.
The savior has promised, “I will come.”
- Scripture?? - The Lord will set his foot upon the mountain

What They Said Wednesday: Elder M. Russell Ballard

2011-06-29T08:23:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Story of the Novice Gold Miner → finding gold flakes in the rocks not finding nuggets
- “It seems to me that you are so busy looking for large nuggets that you are missing the small flecks of gold...the patient accumulation of these little flecks has brought to me tremendous wealth.”

Precious simple things of the gospel
The gospel is simple no matter how hard we work to make it complicated.
- And work hard we do. We cannot explain faith we can only simply express it and allow the Holy Ghost to fill in the explanations - our lives would be less complicated if we would.
Matthew 22:36 - 38
Christ’s love is an active love. Places where we need to serve:
- Service in the home
  - Charity begins at home
  - The golden rule - The single most important rule that should govern our homes.
- Service in the Church
  - Wards and Branches should be a place where our words and actions are be governed by the golden rules so we can create loving unity.
  - Where Charity exists gossip and hurtful words cannot exist.
- Serve in our communities
  - Kindness … soften hearts and molds relationships
  - Kindness is the essence of greatness - Joseph B. Wirthlin
  - Young Single Adults in the Sendai, Japan stake demonstrated this service, wearing the helping hands shirts, and reached out to support the community following the earthquake disaster.
- Missionary Service
  - Full time and Member Missionaries
  - Must happen before the Church can fill the Earth
  - Be sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Ghost
  - Reactivation- a service task as unpleasant as cleaning out a silage pit can lead to reactivation, an inactive brother was reactivated by being invited to help
- Serve each other
  - President Spencer W. Kimball - “It is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom... what glorious things can flow from small deeds.”
  - President Thomas S. Monson - “The needs of others are ever-present. Unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose in our own lives."
Our small and simple acts of kindness and service will blossom into bigger things.

What They Said Wednesday: Elder Lynn G. Robbins

2011-06-22T08:19:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Lynn G. Robbins of the Quorum of the Seventy

To be or not to be actually is a good question!
What manner of men ought ye to be?
The works ye have seen me do, that should ye also do.
To do without to be is hypocrisy.
To be without to do is void. If faith hath not works it is dead. (James 2:17)
- It might also be said that being without doing is laziness.
- Not sure if you can be without doing. As a man thinks so is he.
Be is the weightier matter.
Many of us create to-do lists, but people rarely have to-be list.
We are never done being good parents.
- One thing we need to teach our children is to be like the Savior
“Be” begets “Do.” Teaching Be will improve behavior more effectively than Do will improve
When disciplining children, we shouldn’t focus only on behavior, but rather on what we want the child to be.
“The preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that was just, yeah, it had had a far more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword...” Alma 31:5
- “True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior. The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior.” President Boyd K. Packer, Do Not Fear
A sweet and obedient child will only enroll a father or mother in Parenting 101. If you are blessed with a challenging child you get Parenting 505.
- Graduate-level college course
- Do you need the blessing of parenting a difficult child just as much as they need you?
Never let failure progress from an action to an identity. Never let a person’s actions become their identity.
Our children are God’s children.
The Savior was a humble carpenter, but that hardly defines His life.
It is wiser to focus praise on character and beliefs.
It’s one thing to praise our children for good grades, but it would be better to praise them for their diligence.
- “Wow, you turned in every assignment. You are one who knows how to diligently follow through. I am proud of you.”
- How does this relate to our primary classes, elders quorum members, siblings, spouses, etc? This principle will help all to develop Christlike attributes.
These principles apply to everyone.
Parenting manual = the scriptures.
His image in your countenance and His attributes in your actions

What They Said Wednesday: Sister Silvia H. Allred

2011-06-15T08:14:00.000-06:00

Talk: Silvia H. Allred 1st Counselor in the Relief Society Presidency

Soon after the church was organized, the Lord commanded
“One heart and one mind.” (Moses 7:18)
This is the beginning of better days for the poor and needy
Our combined effort brings relief to those in distress. We can all contribute to the Lord’s storehouse when we pay our fast offerings.

“In the next place, in lieu of residues and surpluses which were accumulated and built up under the United Order, we, today, have our fast offerings, our Welfare donations, and our tithing, all of which may be used for the care of the poor, as well as for the carrying on of the activities and business of the Church. “ (Article Reference)
Lord’s Storehouse: D&C 72:10, D&C 82:18

Our self-reliance increases our ability to serve.

We follow the Savior’s example when we minister to the needy and suffering.
“It is pure religion” (James 1:27)
Luke 21: 3-4
Proverbs 31:20 --She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy
No matter how big the ward is or how small the branch is, every member in the world has the opportunity to give
Service humbles the giver and helps us become true disciples of Jesus Christ
Let us recommit ourselves to serve others!

We can be a "storehouse" to those in need.

Pleads for an increase in our ability to reach out to those in need

What They Said Wednesday: President Thomas S. Monson–Priesthood

2011-06-08T08:12:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Thomas S. Monson

Wants to address some things that will apply to the young, the middle aged... and the not-so-middle-aged
Personal worthiness required to receive and exercise the sacred power of the priesthood which we hold
Read D&C Section 121:36-37 verbatim
- The rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected...
The chasm between us and the world's standards is wide and growing ever wider
- Many movies and television shows subject us to behaviors that are in direct opposition to the laws of God. Do not subject yourselves to the innuendo and outright filth that is there
- Profanity is prevalent. Quotes the commandment "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord they God in vain." Do not say anything of which you cannot be proud.
- Stay completely away from pornography. Do not allow yourself to view it ever.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, or any other drugs.
A strong testimony of our Savior and his Gospel will help see us through to safety. If you do not have a testimony, do what is necessary to obtain one
- You must have your own testimony, because the testimonies of others will only get you so far
Cease any unrighteousness
We can be in the world and not of the world as we reject the false teachings of the world.
One of the saddest things he's had to handle in his three years as President is the cancellation of sealings
- There are any number of reasons for it, but in most cases, divorce does not have to be the outcome
- Choose your love, love your choice
- Commitment in marriage is absolutely essential
- Your wife is your equal
- In marriage neither partner is superior or inferior to the other, your wife is not to be demeaned or insulted, but is to be respected and loved
- Any man who exercises unrighteous dominion over his wife is unworthy of the priesthood. Amen to his priesthood (reference back to D&C at the beginning)
- Happiness is marriage is not so much about choosing the right person, but about being the right person
- Do not let your marriage get to the point where it is in jeopardy
- Be honorable and decent
- Your actions must be above reproach.

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Jeffery R. Holland

2011-06-01T08:08:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Jeffery R Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Story of Ensign Peak, Fulfilling the prophesy.
- “And he will lift up an ensign to the nations from far, and will hiss unto them from the end of the earth: and, behold, they shall come with speed swiftly” (Isaiah 5:26)
This General Conference, and all conferences, are the continuation of being an ensign to the nations.
Which is why, of course, our conferences are published in the “ensign” magazine.
The proceedings of the past 2 days are evidence that Zion’s standard has been unfurled
- The dual meaning of the word “standard” is not happenstance.
This general conference are the continuation of Brigham Young’s declaration to the world that “the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains.”
General conference is a unique phenomenon
We testify to everyone that God not only lives, but that He speaks!
We testify to every nation, kindred, tongue and people that the counsel you have heard is the will of the Lord, the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation.
- Counsel during General Conference is of God
- Each speaker has sought out the lords direction. All they counsel are things they know to be true.
No one is assigned a topic in General Conference. They are asked to fast, seek, pray until they have an understanding that theirs is the topic the Lord would have them speak. (regardless of personal preference)
Those who speak have put their worries, and tears, and prayers into it.
Everyone has tried to be true to the promptings received
So do I see angels standing in it. Mortal messengers with angelic messages.
Men and woman (who have just as many challenges and hardships) who have consecrated their lives to preach God’s word, not their own.
Think about the messages we hear--they are not coordinated---except by Heaven.
- And we mention in tweets and blogs of the Themes of this conference or that one.
The audience of the church is wide and varied--married, single, children, adults,
“We always stress the eternal verities of faith, hope charity, Christ and Him crucified.”
- “And this is the gospel, the glad tidings, which the voice out of the heavens bore record unto us— That he came into the world, even Jesus, to be crucified for the world, and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness” D&C 76:40-42.
We are commanded to speak nothing but repentance to this generation (D&C 11:9)
Whatever form they take these conference messages "proclaim liberty to the captives" , declare "the unsearchable riches of Christ."
In the wide variety of sermons given there will be something for everyone.
“Apparently, the gospel is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable” (Harold B Lee)
There was always discipline inherent in the Savior’s messages
- Discipline---to become a disciple
The Savior gave additional counsel to the commandments already in the scriptures.
Whosoever looketh upon a woman to lust after her hath already committed adultery in his mind.
As the path of discipleship continues, the trail becomes ever more narrow, until we have become “perfect, even as your Father in Heaven is perfect”
- What was gentle in the lowlands of initial loyalty becomes deeply strenuous and demanding at the summit of true discipleship.
In matters of discipleship, the Church is not a fast food outlet--we can’t always have it our way :)
- Salvation can only come His way
Anyone who claims the Saviour taught a No-Fault theology has not read the fine print in the contract.
We know that not everyone is breaking commandments. Most are not guilty of such things. BUT we are here to offer warning calls to everyone.
We are under a solemn charge to (fill in the blank?)
If you’re trying to do the best you can, then give yourself high marks!
- If you are doing your best to have FHE and family prayer in a family of “little bedlam-ites”
If we teach by the spirit, and you listen by the spirit, some one of us will touch on your circumstance. Sending a perfect little prophetic epistle just to you.
- But be sure you prepare and pray for it. :)
- Listening by the spirit is so essential
Each sermon given is both a testimony of love and a warning--even as Nature herself is both a testimony and a warning in these last days
- One way or another GOD WILL HAVE HIS VOICE HEARD!
President Monson will close this conference--we love him, as the senior Apostle and the Prophet for this day.
The lives of Prophets are not easy.
his family has given their father, husband up to serve the church for the last 50 years.
President Monson is “irrepressibly cheerful”
- Nothing gets him down. He has remarkable faith.
“President, for this entire congregation, seen and unseen, I say we love you and honor you. Your devotion is an example to us all.”
- We’ll lighten your load any way we can.
He waves the ensign of this gospel to all the world. Let’s help.
- What will you do in your own community to wave the banner?

What They Said Wednesday: Elder David A. Bednar

2011-05-25T08:45:00.000-06:00

Talk: David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve

2 examples of light, immediate or subtle and gradual (metaphor for the two basic patterns of revelation):
- Flipping on a light switch where a sudden burst of light fills the room
- Watching the night turn into day in which the change to light is gradual
  - “The visual evidence of the sun’s arrival was apparent hours before it actually appeared”
Revelation is communication from God to His children on the earth.
“The Holy Ghost is a revelator, and no man can receive the Holy Ghost without receiving revelations.” (Citation to Quote) --Joseph Smith
The power to receive revelations is not restricted to the leaders of the Church, rather it belongs to and SHOULD be used by all members.
The Holy Ghost is a still small voice, and a voice of perfect mildness. It is why we should shun inappropriate media.
Each of us should consider seriously how to use the spirit of personal revelation in our revelation own lives and families.
Most revelation is received “line upon line, precept upon precept.” (2 Nephi 28:30)
Receiving revelation is related to our desire, preparation, and worthiness
- See the experience of the sons of Mosiah - Alma 17:3
The fundamental truths of the gospel were not revealed to Joseph Smith all at once in the Sacred Grove.
- Truth was revealed slowly and as needed.
- “We still continued the work of translation, when, in the ensuing month (May, 1829), we on a certain day went into the woods to pray and inquire of the Lord respecting baptism for the remission of sins, that we found mentioned in the translation of the plates. While we were thus employed, praying and calling upon the Lord, a messenger from heaven descended in a cloud of light” (Joseph Smith History 1:68-72)
We tend to emphasize dramatic spiritual revelation, this can lead us to overlook the small, simple, incremental ways that the Holy Ghost teaches us.
Do not doubt your testimony because you do not receive frequent, dramatic impressions.
They very simplistic way of receiving revelation may make us look beyond the mark
If you have had doubts, please know that you are quite normal. Just keep pressing forward obediently with faith in the Savior. You cannot go amiss.
“Show me Latter-day Saints who have to feed upon miracles, signs and visions in order to keep them steadfast in the Church, and I will show you members of the Church who are not in good standing before God, and who are walking in slippery paths.” -President Joseph F. Smith.
We receive revelation without recognizing how or when we are receiving revelation.
- “were baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost, and they knew it not...” (3 Nephi 9:20)
We may not see angels, hear heavenly voices, or receive overwhelming impressions. We press forward hoping and praying, without absolute assurance.
Sometimes the spirit of revelation will operate immediately and intensely, sometimes subtly and gradually, often so delicately you may not even recognize it. But regardless of the pattern, the light will illuminate and enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding, and direct and protect you and your family.
As we honour our covenants and keep the commandments, we …. our confidence can wax strong in the presence of God (D&C 121:45) and I promise that you will walk in the light of the Lord.

What They Said Wednesday–Sister Rosemary M. Wixom #CESFireside

2011-05-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

May 1, 2011 CES Fireside -
Sister Rosemary M. Wixom

Text:http://ow.ly/4GtJI

Video: http://bcove.me/m0ihy0g0

Can you see the process12 General President of the Church.
Posters in college
- Trust in the Lord
- Lips that touch liquor will never touch mine.

IN your life, what have you come to know and where did you learn it.
What have you come to know? What have I done?
We are living the plan of our Heavenly Father, plan of happiness
Walk by faith
We are learning how well we knew Him. It is through our effort we will come to know Him here on earth
Alma came to know the Savior at the water of Mormon (Mosiah 18:30)
Four questions:
- How can I come to know the spirit of the holy ghost?
  - Because of meekness and lowliness of heart you shall feel of the spirit
  - Sons of Mosiah-searched the scriptures, prayer and fasting
- How can I come to know the Book of Mormon is true?
  - Objective to know the book is true vs. objective to get through the book
    - Story about Clayton M Christensen while studying at Oxford
  - Find out for your self
    - John 5 - They are they that testify of me.
  - Coming know the truth comes with effort, and the greater the effort the greater the reward.
- How can I come to know my part in the plan of our Heavenly Father
  - Our desires can overcome our frailties.
  - Story from General Conference: Top 10 Priorities
    - make a plan and you live it the best you can
  - God expects us to learn our place in his plan.
- How can I come to know the Father and his Beloved Son?
  - Only we can create time enough to know the Lord.
  - We are for eager to forgive and serve when He is apart of our lives.

Humble heart
Ask in faith
Acting in diligent to the Lords will
Recognize his hand
- if you recognize the lord with be there even more

People of the waters of Mormon prayed much
pray out loud, be diligent
Coming to know for ourselves is very personal
Heavenly Father, are you really there?” - Child’s Prayer Children’s Hymnbook
Asking is an act of Faith.
Something humbling about asking
Nothing is going to startle us more when we pass through the veil; than to realize how much we know our Father. - Pres. Benson
As you walk this path Hold On.

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Walter F. Gonzalez

2011-05-11T08:01:00.001-06:00

Talk: Walter F. Gonzalez of the Presidency of the Seventy

Members have a desire to follow Christ; along with non-members
Duty to INVITE other to see what our Church can add... to the very good things they already have.
John 8:12 Savior - He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but in light.
Followers of Christ:
- Love people (Is our love for God more powerful than adversity or temptation?)
- Make and keep covenants as Christ did
  - An expression of love
  - A way of saying, “Yes, I will follow thee”
  - Through sacrament and temple attendance
- Obey His commandments (under any circumstance)
  - We are not alone
  - He will assist us
  - His tender mercies will make us mighty under any circumstance
Isaiah 53:5 and Mosiah 14:5 - And with his stripes we are healed
The way we treat other shows our dedication to follow Him
Attend the temple often
- Couple in South America wanted to separate. Priesthood leader counseled to attend the Temple, pay attention to the ordinances. Marriage was saved.
We are HAPPIER when we follow the teaching of Jesus Christ

What They Said Wednesday: Sister Jean A. Stevens

2011-05-04T08:30:00.000-06:00

Talk: Sister Jean A Stevens 1st Counselor of the Primary Presidency

Christ - Look to Children as an example
- [Scripture Reference] - Humble yourself as a child
First to love and first to forgive
What really matters most
Meet adversity with HOPE
Christ - Behold your little ones
Elder Ballard - See them as they really are.
Becoming more childlike is the process of becoming more Christlike
Meek humble patient and SO FULL of LOVE
Have some of life’s experiences taken from you the believing heart and childlike faith? – if so, look at the children in your life.

#CESFiresideNotes

2011-04-29T10:10:00.001-06:00

For those that which to participate, I will be opening a Doc to take notes during this Sunday’s CES Fireside by Sister Rosemary M. Wixom, President of the Primary. The notes will be in the same format as General Conference. See links above to familiarize yourself if you are new. It appears it will be live on BYUTV 6:00 PM (MST). So if you are home and you with to participate live that is great. If you are attending and wish to add anything that might have been missed please add it following.

Is there any you can add?

Note will show up below.

Any Questions Please leave a comment.

What They Said Wednesday: Elder Russell M. Nelson

2011-04-27T07:20:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Thank you for sustaining influence, not just by hand but by action. We sustain you, we love you.
- Everyone has a position to be sustained within from the oldest prophet to the youngest child.
Death is a part of life.
- We live to die, and we die to live again. The only death that is premature is the death of one who is not ready to meet God.
Our faith now becomes a part of our posterity’s faith later. (Main theme of talk?)
We have great cause for concern → Do not let our fear displace our faith. Let our faith that must displace our fears.
- It’s strange to think that there are so many things we need to look out for above and beyond Satan.
To prepare to meet God, one keeps ALL of God’s commandments – it takes faith to obey them, and keeping His commandments will strengthen that faith
- Cafeteria approach towards obedience will not work!
- Doing so provides physical and spiritual protection
- God’s holy angels are ever on call to help us
- When we are faithful, He and His angels will help us
Unfailing faith is fortified through prayer.
- D&C 98:2: The Lord hath sworn and decreed that they shall be granted
- “All things with which you have been afflicted shall work together for your good”
D&C 84:88 - I will go before your face
Parents bear the responsibility to teach children and strengthen faith
- Teach that faith with deep conviction
- Teach that they are children of God
- Teach is born with trials to overcome
- Teach to keep all commandments of God
- Warn them that they will encounter people that choose which commandments to keep – cafeteria plan of obedience.
- Keeping commandments will strengthen faith
- Obedience will provide physical and spiritual protection
Priesthood blessing can CHANGE the circumstances of your life.
- The Lord will sustain those blessings
  - Something that so many don’t understand. It’s very hard to teach in a society where if everyone does not have access to everything then it isn’t “equal”. The concept of any job being specific to people is slowly dying.
D&C 105:14 - I the Lord will fight their battles
Thomas S. Monson – fear not – the future is as bright as your faith (April 2009 Conference, “Be Of Good Cheer”)
“His truth, covenants, and ordinances enable us to overcome fear”

What They Said Wednesday!–President Boyd K. Packer

2011-04-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Boyd K. Packer - President of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles

He is standing up this year. (I don’t think he was- did anyone else notice that he was standing?. It looked like the same setup as previous years.)

“It is indeed wearisome sitting alone in the dark” → William Tyndale
We do not resent the title “Mormon”, but it is not quite accurate
- hence mormon.org
Obedient to the revelation we call ourselves “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” rather than Mormons. → Latter-day Saints is the preferred shortening.
- We ought to call ourselves this - not Mormons.
- I Belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Children’s Songbook, 77)
It is one thing for others to refer to us as Mormons, it is another thing when we do so.
Every ordinance is made in the name of Jesus Christ
The Gift of the Holy Ghost and the Power the Apostles were given were essential to the governance of the church.
Every man ought to be able to speak in the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ.
It is only through the power of the Holy Ghost that the Prophets and Apostles are able to lead the church. No other power can do so.
- Interesting thought- every really controversial stand the church has ever taken has come through revelation before the issue was really an issue to the general public. Morality, Marriage, Word of Wisdom.
Some might think that it is improper to be singled out because of a single temptation.
- We must, and we can, resist temptation
The great plan of happiness is centered in the home.
- This ties into the theme of the morning conference.
- Husband is the head of the home, wife is the heart of the home, both parents nurture the spiritual growth of children
Latter-day Saints are taught to love one another and forgive others.
“John, leave it alone. Nothing you do will bring her back and anything you do will only make it worse. John, leave it alone.”
- This is a terribly hard bit of wisdom to follow.
Offence is a type of revenge that is self inflicting.
Be in the world but not of the world
- Taught not to lie cheat steal or use profanity
- Positive and happy
- Stand as witnesses to God
- “It isn’t easy but in the long run it is the only course.”
“ If you have been offended, forget, forgive it, and leave it alone”
- Don’t forget to repent also - the offense is rarely just on the shoulders of the one offending - but also on the one who is being offended.
- “Do a lot of forgiving and a little repenting.”
We ought not be less forgetful of others’ transgressions than the Lord is of ours.
If someone is looking for a church that requires very little- this is not the one.

Special Witnesses of Christ

2011-04-18T10:45:00.000-06:00

Special Witnesses of Christ

The First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles each bear their personal testimony about the Savior and Redeemer of the World.

BYUtv - BYU Weekly: Week of 4/13/2011

2011-04-13T19:25:00.000-06:00

BYUtv - BYU Weekly: Clip about LDSConfNotes.

What They Said Wednesday! Larry M. Gibson–Priesthood

2011-04-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

Talk: Elder Larry M. Gibson First Counselor of the General Young Men Presidency

Young men are to watch over, protect and serve their families
President of the Deacons Quorum is one of four members in the ward with Priesthood keys (Deacons Quorum President, Teachers Quorum President, Bishop, Elders Quorum President- the ward Bishop is President of the Priests Quorum)
Experience with a newly called Deacons President:
- Do ye suppose the Lord would call you without direction
- D&C 107:85 - Not a class but a council
- Duties:
  - 1. Watch over standing as Ministers to the ward
  - 2. Assist teachers when needed
    - Know their duties - Duty to God
  - 3. To warn, expound, exhort, to teach all to come unto Christ.
- “Council of 12”- a deacon is to preside over a council of 12 deacons as stated in D&C 107:85
- Does the Bishop have responsibility for the ward members only, or all who live in the ward boundaries? All who live within the ward boundaries and the same holds for others who hold the Priesthood keys.
Priesthood means to reach out.
Priesthood not a gift, but a commission to serve - President Monson.

A call for Guest Posts

2011-04-10T14:21:00.001-06:00

This is a call for guest posts to be posted here. Submit your post/s by emailing them to ldsconfnotes@gmail.com. They can range for any subject as long on as they are General Conference related.

Thanks

What they said Wednesdays! Pres. Monson – Saturday AM

2011-04-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

Talk: President Thomas S. Monson Prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Temples: Fort Collins CO; Meridian ID; Winnipeg Ontario Canada
- Winnipeg Temple Site
52,000 plus missionaries serving in 340 missions throughout the world
- Encourages contributions to general missionary fund
Listen to learn

How it all happened

2011-04-05T11:32:00.001-06:00

I want to share how this all came to be.

About an hour before the First Session of conference I read the following blog post on lifehacker.com (Use Google Docs for powerful collaborative school note taking) Seeming I already graduated I initially thought, "why couldn't this of been written a few years ago." Without thought, I sent the blog post to my mom stating, "we could take this concept and use it for conference notes." And then it clicked. What if I could do an open invitation to whomever wanted to join and we could collaborate our conference notes together, not after the fact, but real-time.

The advantage of Google Docs would allow for real-time note taking and assisting one another. So I went to my Google Docs account and set up the blank document. I changed the privacy settings to "Public on the web - Anyone on the Internet can find and edit" I knew I wanted to do an outline format so I started set it up basically with Talk: and then a few bullet-points for anyone to use. I added any hymns and that would be place along with other information such as conducting and prayers.

I knew some people would come to the site not know what was going on so I made basic instructions that I was doing and experiment and anyone was welcomed to join in. I also created a survey form for people to fill out for feedback. At about 5-mins before the Saturday AM session began, I sent out my first tweet. ~"LDS General Conference Online Collaboration Experiment http://bit.ly/dVJfDP Help out if you wish. #LDSCONF"

Conference was starting and I had a few people come in and just leave. Everyone came in as an anonymous user because no needed to be logged-in, or have, a Google account to participate. As the session started I filled in the information because I knew what I wanted. Some user came in, but no one was helping. As Pres. Monson started his opening address another cursor popped onto the screen. "Someone gets it," I thought. The cursor just fixed a spelling error. I sent out another tweet. More hits, more people staying. About half-way through finally someone else was writing a point they thought pertinent. Yes! By the time Pres. Monson finished I had about 6 users and 3 cursors.

The session kept going and more hits, however I never had more than 15 people in at one time. At the end of the session about three of us successfully collaborated our notes. I thought it was a personal success. I had never done anything like this and I was excited that random members were willing to participate in this experiment. I went to see the response to the survey and there was only one response:

"Interesting. I found it helpful for keeping myself focused on Conference talks. More complete instructions on what the ultimate product should look like."

So in between the break I refocused my instructions. Set up the same outline format with new instructions. I sent out another tweet before the PM Session started. There was some people already on the document. Wow. More hits and more cursors. This session maxed to about 29 users at one time. As the session went on those that had helped previously knew what was going on and other figured it out. About half-way in to the first speakers remarks I notice that there were links within the document. What a brilliant idea. The links ranged from scriptures on LDS.org to the Bios of the speakers. Amazing what a good tool if anyone not familiar could see. During the intermediate hymn I express my thanks in the chat side bar. Appreciation was expressed in response. Amazements were also spoken of.

At the end I invited any brethren to come back post Priesthood Session to collaborate notes. Since it wouldn't be appropriate to do real-time.

Sunday Morning I logged on and even before I could send my first tweet the users present was 20. People were discussing, using the chat sidebar, how they found out about the site. Some said Twitter and other then mentioned Facebook. One person even posted a link on their personal website. I honestly didn't think it would go that far. I still sent out a tweet just to see if I could get more people on. The number of users ranged from 31 to 46. More collaboration more linking, more adding on to what someone else had written. Someone described it as ant building an ant hill. All working together in a common goal. This time at the intermediate hymn someone had mention getting a domain that would link to the doc, because the doc's official url was long and didn't make any sense. Again I never thought of that because this was initially an experiment that went right. At the end someone offered to host the domain.

During the break we registered for a domain, www.ldsconfnotes.com. Due to timing the domain was not going to be available in time so we quickly used blogger.com and created www.ldsconfnotes.blogspot.com. I also split the sessions to individual docs. Everything was link on the blog, and inside every new session doc. The final session on Sunday I finally learned the limits of Google doc. Users were wondering why they couldn't help edit. Apparently Google Docs would only allow 50 unique editors. Those outside of that number were redirected to read only view. Collaboration took full steam. More points, more scriptures, more links. During President Monson's talk about temples in Brazil, someone even linked a Google map showing the distance between Manaus and Sao Paulo Brazil. Such great ideas to bring better understanding to the messages delivered by the speakers.

Did it accomplish what I wanted it to accomplish?

As it started out as an experiment, it did accomplish that. People are even asking for it to be available in October. I have created alias email and twitter accounts. I now vision to keep up the blog with posts until October. Discussion has been out to see how the experience can be improved. I encourage this technology to be used in family, wards, or any unit.

The current purpose is to provide collaborated notes to the talks until the ensign is mailed out. A seminary teacher commented how this has helped him for his future classes.

As always any feedback is welcomed.

Links to all Sessions

2011-04-03T13:50:00.001-06:00

LDS Conference April 2 - 3, 2011; 181th Annual General Conference

Saturday Morning Session

Saturday Afternoon Session

Live General Conference Notes

Music Monday–Press Forward, Saints

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Russell M. Nelson

Full Talk

Talk: Russell M Nelson - Quorum of the Twelve

Music Monday–I Am a Child of God

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita

Full Talk

Talk: Kazuhiko Yamashita - (山下和彦)- Of the Seventy

Music Monday–Redeemer of Israel

What They Said Wednesday–Sister Elaine S. Dalton

Talk: Elaine S Dalton - Young Women General President

Music Monday–We Ever Pray for Thee

What They Said Wednesday–Pres. Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Full Talk

Talk: President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - Second Counselor in the First presidency

Music Monday–With Songs of Praise

What They Said Wednesday–Elder D. Todd Christofferson

Talk: D. Todd Christofferson - Quorum of the Twelve

Music Monday–The Morning Breaks

What They Said Wednesday–President Boyd K. Packer

Talk: Pres. Boyd K. Packer

What They Said Wednesday–Elder W. Christopher Waddell

Talk: Elder W. Christopher Waddell - First Quorum of the Seventy

What They Said Wednesday–President Henry B. Eyring

Talk: Henry B. Eyring - First Presidency

What They Said Wednesday–Dallin H. Oaks

Talk: Dallin H. Oaks - Quorum of the Twelve

#CESFiresideNotes–November 6th 2011

2011 November CES Devotional for Young Adults

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Talk: Elder Jeffrey R. Holland - Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What They Said Wednesday–Sister Julie B. Beck

Talk: Julie B Beck

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Richard G. Scott

Talk: Richard G Scott (Quorum of the Twelve)

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Neil L. Anderson

Talk: Neil L. Anderson - Quorum of the Twelve

What They Said Wednesday–President Thomas S. Monson

Talk: President Thomas S. Monson President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

What has left you thinking?

Sunday PM Session

Sunday AM Session

Priesthood Session

Saturday PM Session

Saturday AM Session

All Members Invited to Participate in October General Conference

Viewing Live

Attending Live

Inviting Others to Participate

Reviewing Archives

Temples?

General Conference Family Traditions

What They Said Wednesday–President Thomas S. Monson

Talk: President Thomas S. Monson

Favorite Conference Talk

How are you preparing for General Conference?

How do I prepare myself and my family for general conference?

Calling all Sisters

General Relief Society Meeting to Be Held on September 24, 2011

Get Ready for Conference

General Conference—No Ordinary Blessing

BY PRESIDENT DIETER F. UCHTDORF Second Counselor in the First Presidency

General Conference—No Ordinary Blessing

1. Members of the Church are entitled to personal revelation as they listen to and study the inspired words spoken at general conference.

2. Don’t discount a message merely because it sounds familiar.

3. The words spoken at general conference should be a compass that points the way for us during the coming months.

Teaching from This Message

Good, Better, Best

I Can Find Answers through General Conference

What They Said Wednesday–President Henry B. Eyring

Talk: President Henry B. Eyring, 1st Counselor of the First Presidency

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Richard J. Maynes

Talk: Elder Richard J. Maynes of the Seventy - Establishing a Christ-Centered Home

#CESFiresideNotes – September 11th 2011

What They Said Wednesday–Elder L. Tom Perry

Talk: Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Richard G. Scott

Talk: Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What They Said Wednesday–Elder Paul V. Johnson

BY PRESIDENT DIETER F. UCHTDORF
Second Counselor in the First Presidency