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Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf: ‘The Prodigal and the Road That Leads Home’

‘It is my prayer that each one of us may hear, in this profound parable, the Father’s voice calling us to enter the road that leads home’

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke during the Sunday morning session of October 2023 general conference. He used the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate how God rejoices when His children enter “the road that leads home.” The following is a summary of what Elder Uchtdorf said.

Elder Uchtdorf’s talk summary

Like all of the Savior’s parables, the story of the prodigal son is not only about people living long ago. “It’s about you and me, today.” 

To those who have wondered if it’s possible to go back or how God will react to their return, this parable gives the answer: “Our Heavenly Father will run to us, His heart overflowing with love and compassion. He will embrace us, place a robe around our shoulders, a ring on our finger, sandals on our feet, and proclaim: ‘Today, we celebrate! For my child, who once was dead, has come back to life!’ Heaven will rejoice at our return. …

“Though choices may have taken you far away from the Savior and His Church, the Master Healer stands at the road that leads home, welcoming you. And we as members of the Church of Jesus Christ seek to follow His example and embrace you as our brothers and sisters, as our friends. We rejoice and celebrate with you.”

Everyone relies daily on the same atoning power of Jesus Christ. The path will not be free from grief, sorrow or sadness. “Together we will ‘press forward with a steadfastness in Christ.’” 

Notable quotes

“Your return will not diminish the blessings of others. For the Father’s bounty is infinite, and what is given to one does not in the slightest diminish the birthright of others.”

“We know what it’s like to be a prodigal. We all rely daily on the same atoning power of Christ. We know this path, and we will walk with you.”

“It is my prayer that each one of us may hear, in this profound parable, the Father’s voice calling us to enter the road that leads home.”

See the full text of Elder Uchtdorf’s talk: ‘The Prodigal and the Road That Leads Home’

Who is Elder Uchtdorf?

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

What has Elder Uchtdorf done recently?

Read more of Elder Uchtdorf’s general conference addresses, or follow him on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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