The Sunday afternoon session of the April 2024 general conference featured several talks. President Russell M. Nelson emphasized the importance of temples and priesthood keys, stating that the temple is the gateway to the greatest blessings God has for His children. Elder D. Todd Christofferson spoke about being valiant in the testimony of Jesus, while Elder Neil L. Andersen encouraged increased attendance at the temple. Elder Gary E. Stevenson discussed the two great commandments of loving the Lord and loving your neighbor. Elder Taylor G. Godoy emphasized the importance of prayer and taking action. President Mark L. Pace testified of the power of studying the Book of Mormon and following the living prophet. [93974310]
President Henry B. Eyring shared a personal experience during the general conference. He recounted a time of crisis when he and his wife found peace and reassurance through the temple covenants they had made. President Eyring emphasized the importance of honoring and keeping temple covenants, stating that there is nothing more important. He quoted President Nelson, who teaches that the temple is the safest place to be and that the power of Jesus Christ is accessed through temple covenants. President Eyring testified of the eternal nature of our spirits and the blessings of sealing covenants in the temple. He encouraged frequent temple attendance and the remembrance of temple covenants, which invite the companionship of the Holy Ghost and create a desire to keep the covenants. He also emphasized the importance of family relationships and the protection they provide from selfishness and pride. President Eyring concluded by urging all to qualify for and attend the temple, assuring that all will be well because of temple covenants. [20bda154]
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about the importance of stillness in our lives. He shared an experience during a tour of a temple where a journalist was struck by the quietness of the celestial room. Elder Bednar emphasized that stillness involves tuning out the commotion of our external environment and focusing on God. He referenced the scripture "Be still, and know that I am God" and explained that being still means remembering and relying upon God and His power. Elder Bednar also discussed the importance of building our lives upon the rock of Christ and connecting our spiritual foundation to Him. He highlighted the significance of sacred times, holy places, and the home in experiencing inner stillness. Elder Bednar concluded by promising that as we build our lives upon Christ, we can receive the spiritual stillness of the soul and overcome challenges. [960b0a23]
President Nelson also announced the locations of 15 new temples. The new temples will be built at or near the following locations: Uturoa, French Polynesia; Chihuahua, Mexico; Florianópolis, Brazil; Edinburgh, Scotland; Brisbane, Australia south area; Victoria, British Columbia; Yuma, Arizona; Houston, Texas South Area; Des Moines, Iowa; Cincinnati, Ohio; Honolulu, Hawaii; West Jordan, Utah; Lehi, Utah; Maracaibo, Venezuela. Since becoming the leader of the Church in January 2018, President Nelson has announced the construction of 168 additional temples. The Church now has 350 temples announced, under construction or in operation. Temples are places where individuals can go to make sacred promises with God, feel His Spirit, and escape from the hectic demands of day-to-day life. [93974310]
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke at a devotional for the Utah National Guard in Draper, Utah. He thanked military members for their service, promised heavenly protection, and encouraged all to be more welcoming and friendly to others. The Apostle had previously visited Fort Carson and witnessed the heavy burdens carried by the families of servicemen. Divine help is available to soldiers and their families. [c186ec4b]