Last month The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints met for General Conference, a semi-annual meeting where the general authorities and officers of the church give talks and messages, led by the prophet for the earth, President Russell M. Nelson. This takes place in five 2-hour blocks over the course of the weekend of April 5-6th, and is easily watched through television or YouTube. What was talked about most at the conference? I’ve worked to identify six prominent themes.
First, Jesus Christ and His Atonement at the center of faith and life. Almost every speaker talked about Jesus Christ. President Nelson taught that we can feel confident with God when we have love and goodness in our lives. Elder Gong reminded everyone that Jesus understands our happiness and sadness perfectly. Sister Wright encouraged parents to help their children believe in Jesus and become more like Him. Again and again this was the focus.
Second, repentance brings healing. This was the second most-frequently mentioned theme. Many speakers said that God responds with love, not judgment, when we make mistakes. Sister Runia taught that repenting actually makes Jesus happy, not sad. Elder Palmer said it’s never too late to come back to Christ. Elder Whiting advised not to hide mistakes but to ask for help instead. Elder Andersen assured those who have experienced abortion that forgiveness is available through Christ. In our world of self-criticism and judgment couldn’t we all use this message?
Third, charity and discipleship. Charity isn’t an optional “nice to have,” but the concrete sign that we belong to Christ. Service emerged as the practical manifestation of discipleship. Elder Michael B. Strong’s “Charity-a Sign of True Discipleship” outlined principles for deepening compassion, while Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught that “our love for others shows our discipleship and that we can find belonging and unity in Christ’s Church.” President Nelson taught that filling our lives with charity and virtue creates spiritual confidence. Elder John A. McCune spoke about the joy found in making and keeping covenants while following Christ.
Fourth, covenants and preparing for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Multiple speakers connected covenant-keeping with readiness for Christ’s return. Elder Dale G. Renlund’s “Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior” drew lessons from the Savior’s parables about preparation including the Parable of the Ten Virgins, of the Talents, and the Sheep and Goats. Elder Bednar’s “The Times of Restitution of All Things” revisited Restoration events as covenant milestones foreshadowing Israel’s final gathering. President Nelson acknowledged that “we do not know the day or the hour of His coming” while emphasizing that “the Lord is prompting me to urge us to get ready for that ‘great and dreadful day.'” Elder Steven D. Shumway taught that church service helps prepare us to stand before the Savior.
Fifth, strengthening families. Several talks addressed family as the kingdom’s fundamental unit. Multiple speakers emphasized family importance. Sister Wright urged parents to help their children grow spiritually. Elder Boom encouraged members to find strength in the faith of their parents and ancestors. These messages showed that faith connects generations together.
Sixth, faith, trust, and personal revelation. Speakers talked about how to get direction from God. They recommended prayer, scripture study, and temple attendance. Elder Vargas called these practices our “heavenly GPS.” Sister Johnson and President Eyring taught that God can guide our everyday decisions if we listen for His help.
Scattered throughout the conference sessions were themes of youth and service as well as the sanctity of life and moral courage. For those not of the same faith, how do these messages sound to you? If you are interested in watching or reading any of them, here is a link.