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Video: Preparing for the prophet — behind the scenes of a 65,000-person devotional in Phoenix

On Feb. 10, President Russell M. Nelson spoke to over 65,000 Latter-day Saints in the State Farm Stadium. Speaking on the topic of what it really means to gather Israel, President Nelson's address in the indoor venue was the largest Church gathering ever in Arizona. It was also one of the largest gatherings in the Church since the 1970s and 1980s, which included a May 1980 conference of approximately 75,000 at the Rose Bowl in Southern California.

“I have an invitation for you as the Arizona battalion of the Lord’s army to help gather Israel on both sides of the veil,” President Nelson said, encouraging members to participate in family history and temple work and to strengthen the testimonies of others.

But what does it take to put on a devotional — and in under three months? James Jarvis, executive secretary to Area Seventy Elder C. Dale Willis Jr., talks about his experience during this Church News video. Between finding a venue, making plans on a committee and distributing tickets, Jarvis said he saw the Lord's hand in it all.

"There's been moments where I have felt that the Lord is preparing the way for His prophet to come," said Jarvis.

Learn more behind-the-scenes stories about the event at State Farm Stadium.
Watch all Church News videos here.
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