The 88-year-old prophet and president of the Church of Jesus Christ, Thomas S. Monson, voiced the sentiments of many Latter-day Saints as he gave the opening address at the Sunday morning session of the 185th Semiannaul General Conference. He expressed sadness at the recent deaths of three beloved members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and said how much he missed them.
But with cheerfulness and gratitude, he welcomed the three newest members of the Quorum, saying, “These are men dedicated to the work of the Lord. They are well qualified to fill the important positions to which they have been called.”
Other speakers in the session were President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency; President Russell M. Nelson, newly sustained as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; and Elders Gregory A. Schwitzer and Claudio R. M. Costa of the Seventy. The three new apostles — Elder Ronald A. Rasband, Elder Gary E. Stevenson and Elder Dale G. Renlund — also spoke.
Prayers were offered by Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong of the Seventy and Sister Cheryl A. Esplin, first counselor in the Primary general presidency.
Addresses delivered in the session covered themes such as being an example, the companionship of the Holy Ghost, the greatness of women in the Church, standing powerfully as witnesses for God and His doctrine, and always remembering the Savior and His Atonement.
Music for the session was provided by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir under the direction of Mack Wilberg and Ryan Murphy, with Richard Ellliott and Andrew Unsworth at the Conference Center organ. Selections performed were “Redeemer of Israel,” “If the Savior Stood beside Me,” “There Is Sunshine in My Soul Today” and “The Spirit of God.” The congregation joined with the choir in singing “How Firm a Foundation.”
