Bishop Gérald Caussé spoke during the Saturday evening session of October 2022 general conference. He called care of the earth a sacred responsibility entrusted to God’s children. The following is a summary of what he said.
Bishop Caussé’s conference talk summary
Human interactions with the beauties of nature can produce some of the most inspiring and delightful experiences in life.
“The emotions we feel kindle within us a deep sense of gratitude for our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, who created this magnificent earth.”
But the work of creation is not an end in itself — it’s an integral part of God’s plan for His children. Its purpose is to provide the setting in which men and women may be tested, exercise agency, find joy, learn and progress toward returning to live with God.
“These wonderful creations were prepared entirely for our benefit and are living proof of the love the Creator has for His children.”
Our earthly stewardship can be guided by three principles:
- The entire earth, including all life thereon, belongs to God.
- As stewards of God’s creations, we have a duty to honor and care for them.
- We are invited to participate in the work of creation.
“I testify that great spiritual blessings are promised to those who love and care for the earth and their fellow men and women. As you stay faithful in this sacred stewardship and honor your eternal covenants, you will grow in the knowledge of God and His Son, Jesus Christ.”
Notable quotes from Bishop Caussé’s conference talk
“The care of the earth and of our natural environment is a sacred responsibility entrusted to us by God, which should fill us with a deep sense of duty and humility. It is also an integral component of our discipleship.”
“Our stewardship over God’s creations also includes, at its pinnacle, a sacred duty to love, respect and care for all human beings with whom we share the earth.”
“We participate in the work of creation whenever we cultivate the earth or add our own constructions to this world — as long as we show respect for God’s creations.”
“There is no stewardship more sacred, more fulfilling, but also more demanding, than that of partnering with our Creator in providing physical bodies for His spirit children and then helping them reach their divine potential.”
See the full text of Bishop Caussé’s talk: ‘Our Earthly Stewardship’
Who is Bishop Caussé?
- Bishop Gérald Caussé has served as the presiding bishop since October 2015.
- A native of France, Bishop Caussé spent his career in the food industry, where he worked with several supermarket chains and food distribution companies.
- Bishop Caussé last spoke in general conference about Jesus Christ as the central role of the Book of Mormon, in April 2020.
What has Bishop Caussé done recently?
- Bishop Gérald Caussé spoke about Church finances and reserves in a rare interview last February.
- He taught Latter-day Saints that the Savior modeled service and community building while speaking at BYU in April.
Read more of Bishop Caussé’s general conference addresses.