On Aug. 7, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, shared a video of him and his wife, Sister Kristen Oaks, interviewing two youth about their experience with mental health.
“Some people have greater gift of mental stability than others,” said President Oaks. “Some may struggle all their life, some may have a serious episode and get over it.”
He was one of several leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who posted on social media in the past week.
In an Aug. 8 post, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson shared an experience she had with young Relief Society members at a young single adult conference’s service project.
“The most powerful thing we can do is to always be warm, gentle, and kind,” said President M. Russell Ballard, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, on Aug. 8.
“When we love God, we love His children despite any differences we might have.”
Primary General President Susan H. Porter posted a link to the new special issue of The Friend magazine that focused on baptism and confirmation on Aug. 9.
“It is our prayer that children will see themselves as beloved children of God and have a desire to serve others as valued members of His Church,” said President Porter.
President Porter also posted a video of her at the Utah Area Young Single Adult Conference’s “Together in Christ” concert that occurred over the weekend.
She had attended with her two grandchildren and spoke of the tender experience she had when vocalist Jordan Smith sung the beloved Primary song, “I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus.”
“I could hardly keep tears from flowing as I realized thousands in attendance were immediately of one heart as they stood and sang, ‘Love one another as Jesus loves you,’” she said.
President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency, said on Aug. 6, “The message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is that we can and must expect to become better as long as we live.”
He called it a “wonderful transformation,” and promised members that, as they follow His example, they can “receive a capacity beyond our [their] to do as He did and love as He loves.”
Sunday School General President Mark L. Pace posted on Aug. 10: “Miracles are real.”
“When we are dealing with challenges in our families or in our individual lives, we can remember that Jesus is the God of the fourth watch,” President Pace said.
“Let’s be brave and include people like Jesus,” said Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, in a post on Aug. 9.
Sharing an experience of her son not having anyone to eat lunch with, Sister Runia encouraged members to invite those around them to do simple things like eat lunch together.
On Aug. 7, Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, spoke of the important influence mentors have in a child’s life. “Young people desperately need someone in their cheering section,” she said.
“As we follow the Savior’s example, nurturing and fostering opportunities for learning and growth, we can help the rising generation realize the greatness that lies within them.”
Brother Milton Camargo, first counselor in the Sunday School general presidency, said in a post on Aug. 10, “I’ve learned that tribulations teach us patience, possibly because they don’t end quickly,” he said. “They often require us to look for solutions, make several attempts, consult with others, and certainly pray for inspiration.”
