Throughout his life, Elder Neil Linden Andersen said Sunday afternoon, he has heard General Authorities speak, felt the power of their messages and gained reverence for the role they perform in the Church.
"And now, to be invited to sit with them and to assist them in building the kingdom of God is a privilege I feel faint in accepting," mused Elder Andersen of the Seventy, one of two men sustained for the first time as General Authorities at this conference."I pray for your support, for your faith and prayers, that I might measure up. I ask for your patience and for the patience of my Brethren who will be my tutors. And more than anything I pray for the help of our Heavenly Father and His Son, for without their help and direction I will surely fail."
Expressing gratitude for his wife, Kathy, he said, "She makes goodness look easy, and the purity of her spirit keeps our family focused on the simple yet saving truths of the gospel."
He also expressed appreciation for his children and for his parents, now serving in the Georgia Macon Mission.
"Even before I knew, I knew that they knew that the Church was true."
He said he is also thankful for the examples of his wife's parents of unselfish giving and for brothers and sisters.
Referring to his recently completed term as president of the France Bordeaux Mission, he expressed love and admiration for the people of France and the missionaries who served with him.
"Finally I'm thankful for the good saints and members in our home state of Florida who have strengthened us through our many years there together."
He expressed confidence in the statement of President Thomas S. Monson that "whom the Lord calls the Lord qualifies" and pledged to be teachable, meek and committed to advancing the cause of the Restoration.
"I know that when we are on the Lord's errand He will be with us. He will strengthen us. He will build our capacities. I have experienced it. I have felt His lifting spirit."
