Elder Randall K. Bennett, General Authority Seventy, spoke during the Saturday afternoon session of April 2023 general conference. Elder Bennett shared the blessings of receiving and studying a patriarchal blessing. The following is a summary of what he said.
Elder Bennett’s talk summary
A patriarchal blessing can help navigate challenges with life as it helps a person understand their divine identity and perspective.
“Knowing who I really was helped me understand and desire to do what God expected of me.”
This led to a study of covenants, including the promised blessings in God’s covenant with Abraham. “It gave me an eternal perspective that inspired me to more fully keep my covenants.”
There is also spiritual strength in studying one’s patriarchal blessing.
“I studied my blessing frequently, often daily, which helped me feel the comforting, guiding influence of the Holy Ghost, who helped reduce my anxiety as I followed His promptings.”
This led to an increased desire to “actively invite light, truth and the Holy Ghost” by studying the scriptures and praying daily.
“That focus helped me experience great joy, despite my personal circumstances.”
Studying his patriarchal blessing also helped him to “desire to do better and be better,” withstand temptations and have the courage to repent.
“Cherishing my patriarchal blessing while I was young blessed me with courage when I was discouraged, comfort when I was fearful, peace when I felt anxious, hope when I felt hopeless and joy when I needed it most.”
Notable quotes
“I studied my blessing frequently, often daily, which helped me feel the comforting, guiding influence of the Holy Ghost, who helped reduce my anxiety as I followed His promptings.”
“I received spiritual strength each time I studied my patriarchal blessing.”
“My patriarchal blessing helped increase my faith and trust in my Heavenly Father and my Savior.”
See the full text of Elder Bennett’s talk: ‘Your Patriarchal Blessing — Inspired Direction From Heavenly Father’
Who is Elder Bennett?
- Elder Randall K. Bennett was sustained a General Authority Seventy in April 2011. He has served in the Europe East Area presidency in Moscow, Russia, and as president of the North America Northeast Area. He currently serves in the North America Central Area presidency.
- He was born in Magrath, Alberta. He served as a full-time missionary in the France Paris and France Toulouse missions.
- His wife, Sister Shelley W. Bennett, initially turned down his marriage proposal three times. They were married in April 1977 in the Cardston Alberta Temple. They have four children.
- They served as missionary training center leaders and as mission leaders of the Russia Samara Mission from 2007 to 2010.
- Elder Bennett was a dentist and orthodontist.
What has Elder Bennett done recently?
- Elder Bennett presided at the groundbreaking of the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple on Aug. 21, 2021.
- Elder Bennett and Elder S. Gifford Nielsen worked with two members of the Black 14 about events at a BYU football game last fall.
- During the October 2015 general conference he spoke on taking the next step on the covenant path.
- What an apostle’s challenge to say ‘I love you, Dad’ teaches about following the prophets of God