Gathering Israel: 2021 LDS Annual General Conference

CONFERENCE The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 191st Annual General Conference

GATHERING ISRAEL

Sundry factors at play in modern restoration

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A3

FROM THE EDITOR

Gathering Israel: A theme for our times special LDS Week or Conference edition Next’s weekend’s general conference for is a kind of a perfect example of what we’re The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the third consecutive such gather- talking about. My own involvement in this special project has kind of come full circle, ing being held virtually, with no one in attendance except for leaders of the church from where it began.

I’ve been at the Daily Herald long speaking in that specific session. enough to have first-hand experience Which begs the question: How can with the origins of our LDS Week you gather Israel when interested special conference advance sections. parties can’t even gather in person The brainchild of then-Managing for conference?

Editor Randy Wright, and under the OK, I realize that comparison may direction of Features Editor Elyssa be a little apples to oranges — or perAndrus, this content started out as a haps a bit like comparing three-hour Fox four-section collection of broadsheet church to two-hour blocks, home news pages, each with a different overriding teaching to ministering, or worshipping in the olden days of a few years ago compared theme tying into the twice-a-year conference gathering. There were stories about expected to today’s pandemic-affected hybrids of inthemes and pertinent current topics, feaperson and virtual participation.

If we’ve learned anything during the past tures on LDS entertainers and projects, an year, it’s that, given time and the proper re- obligatory Girls Night Out story with ideas sources, we humans are adaptable to most on things to do and places to eat while the men and boys were attending the Saturday everything life throws at us.

Speaking of survival and adaptability, this evening Priesthood Session, recipes for sug-

gested conference meals, and my favorite, a section devoted to games, from Conference Bingo to word search and crossword puzzles.

Over the years, the section became more streamlined and production shifted from the Features department to the main news staff.

It shifted from broadsheet to tabloid and, more recently, to a glossy magazine presentation. One main consistency over the past decade or so, planning and story content has largely been under the direction and inspiration of our veteran faith reporter Genelle Pugmire. Pugmire, who was recently honored by Provo city with its Women’s Trailblazer award, puts a tremendous amount of thought and effort into this section twice a year, and it is she who most often suggests the theme for each publication.

She picked this edition’s theme, “Gathering Israel” — or, more correctly, we could say she borrowed it from President Russell M. Nelson. During coverage of this past October’s conference, Pugmire said she was

struck by a comment in one of Nelson’s addresses, when he said, “The gathering of Israel is the most important thing taking place on the earth today. Nothing else compares in magnitude, nothing else compares in importance, nothing else compares in majesty.”

Nelson then invited church members to devote the following six months to focus on the gathering of Israel. As such, this publication, with its compelling stories by Pugmire and correspondent Sarah Harris, not only delves into the historical nature of the scattering and gathering of Israel, but more importantly, the real-world applications today.

As Pugmire states in her overview story, this publication, appearing in both the Daily Herald and Standard-Examiner, is an invitation to understand the church’s beliefs on the gathering of Israel and how church members view their role in it.

Doug Fox

Managing Editor Daily Herald

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CONFERENCE Table of contents 7 – Gathering of Israel overview 8 – Missionary work a key cog in plan 12 – Technology aiding the gathering effort 16 – Gathering Israel through congressional service 22 – Marvelous work continues through pandemic 27 – Temple work, family history create ties that bind GENERAL MANAGER Jim Konig

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WRITERS Genelle Pugmire Sarah Harris

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PHOTO: ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD FILE PHOTO Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wait in the standby line before the morning session of the 189th Annual General Conference held April 6, 2019, at Temple Square in Salt Lake City.

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GATHERING ISRAEL OVERVIEW

WHAT ONCE WAS SCATTERED, MUST NEEDS BE GATHERED

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD FILE PHOTO

President Russell M. Nelson, president and prophet of the church, and his wife, sister Wendy Watson Nelson, wave to the audience as they exit after the afternoon session of the 188th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held Oct. 6, 2018, at the church’s Conference Center in Salt Lake City.

BY GENELLE PUGMIRE Daily Herald

The notion of the gathering of Israel is as old as the ancient Bible prophets Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Before the gathering, though, there had to be a scattering — and that is where this important story begins.

President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has said, “The gathering of Israel is the most important thing

taking place on the earth today. Nothing else compares in magnitude, nothing else compares in importance, nothing else compares in majesty.”

During the October 2020 Semiannual General Conference, Nelson invited members of the church to spend the next six months on studying about the gathering of Israel. This publication on the gathering, and the articles in it, is an invitation to understand the church’s beliefs in the gathering of Israel and why it is so important to them. There is

much more that could be written on the subject, but this is a glimpse into one of the doctrines of the church.

Like the prophet Abraham, members of the church believe they are tied to God and become the direct heirs of the same blessings Abraham was given by God through covenants or, in other words, Godly promises.

Please SEE GATHERING, PAGE A6

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Gathering From A5

It also is true that Jesus Christ was a descendent of Abraham. The church believes Jesus Christ was the Jehovah of the Old Testament and the one with whom Abraham covenanted.

The name of the church states that members are devoted to Christ as their Savior, the Son of God, the Redeemer of mankind.

The gathering of his sheep, as he told his apostles of old, is the church membership’s greatest duty as they prepare for his second coming.

THE SCATTERING

Various scriptures from the Old Testament to LDS Church scriptures, including the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price, refer to Abraham receiving the higher priesthood and other covenants. Because of this, the LDS Church teaches that Abraham received a promise that all of the blessings attached to these covenants would be offered to his posterity.

The LDS Church calls this the Abrahamic Covenant. Members of the church believe the restoration of this covenant was why the restoration of the gospel was needed in the last days. For through it, all the nations of the earth are blessed, according to church doctrine.

It is part of Abraham’s posterity, the children of Jacob, whose name God changed to Israel, who did not follow their father’s or grandfather’s teachings and they were “scattered among the heathen nations.”

Over hundreds of years, the children of Israel were either held in bondage or ruled by kings. It was after the death of King Solomon that Israel revolted and divided into tribes.

God’s children, the house of Israel were spurning him and turning the hearts and minds from him, according to the scriptures.

In 721 B.C., the northern kingdom was taken captive by the Assyrians ending what the world knew of the 10 tribes. They later dispersed more to the north and tribes were lost among the gentile nations, according to scripture.

The tribe of Judah was intact and the Levites had already been scattered among all the tribes as they were the ones called to officiate in the priesthood for all Israel.

The southern kingdom was the tribe of

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

Judah. It is in all literal sense the country of Israel today. It is the place to which the Jews are to gather home.

The Levites later joined with Judah in the southern kingdom. The two tribes also were dispersed by A.D. 70 when the Romans had conquered them, either killing them or driving them out.

THE GATHERING

For 2,700 years, the lost 10 tribes have been scattered, and have lost their origin and identity. Now, with the restoration of this knowledge and the Abrahamic Covenant, the time has come to gather Israel home.

The ways of gathering both the living and the dead are numerous, according to LDS doctrine.

Through missionary work, temple work for the living and vicariously for the dead, and family history work, the church is using everything at its disposal, including social media, to reach out and find those lost from the tribes of Israel who are ready to listen and return to God’s covenant ways.

In speaking about the 2021 youth theme, Nelson noted that part of that says they are “laying a foundation of a great work.” During a worldwide youth devotional, Nelson invited youth to a special calling.

“I am inviting every young woman and every young man between the ages of 12 and 18 in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to enlist in the youth battalion of the Lord to help gather Israel,” Nelson said. He challenged LDS youth to participate in what he called “the greatest challenge, the greatest cause, and the greatest work on the earth today.”

Among the missionaries of the church is a popular hymn that sums up what missionaries (the men are called Elders) will do to help gather Israel. The first verse of the hymn written by Cyrus H. Whellock (18131894) with music by Thomas H. Bayly (1797-1879): “Ye Elders of Israel come join now with me, and seek out the righteous where e’re they may be.

On desert, on mountain, on land or on sea, and bring them to Zion the pure and the free.”

The members of the church have been admonished by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf to pray — not only for the missionaries to find the elect, but also to pray daily with all their

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD FILE PHOTO

President Russell M. Nelson, president and prophet of the church, waves to the audience as he exits after the afternoon session of the 188th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held Oct. 6, 2018, at the church’s Conference Center in Salt Lake City.

heart that they will find those who will come and see, come and help, and come and stay. Keep the full-time missionaries in the loop. They are like angels, ready to help.

The same is true for those who help with family history. Just a month ago more than a million people participated virtually in the annual RootsTech conference where numerous keynote and guest lecturers teach about how to find ancestors through research.

Temples are being dedicated, built and announced continuously. These temples bring families together under the same

covenants that God made with Abraham.

There are currently 150 finished and will go back into a complete workload under a phased program during the current COVID-19 pandemic. There are 19 under construction and 20 temples that have been announced and planned for. That is a total of 189 temples. If tradition holds this April conference, it is anticipated Nelson could announce additional locations where temples will be built.

Daily Herald reporter Genelle Pugmire can be contacted at gpugmire@heraldextra. com, (801) 344-2910, Twitter @gpugmire

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH MISSIONARY WORK

What do you know about LDS missionary work? Would you like to know more? will choose to let God be the most important influence in their lives.

Daily Herald “For centuries, prophets have foretold this gathering, and it is happening right Missionary work is not a new concept. now, as an essential prelude to the second The Bible teaches the resurrected Jesus Christ admonished his Twelve Apostles to coming of the Lord, it is the most imporgo into all the world and preach the gospel. tant work in the world.”

The purpose for missionary work is not That is why The Church of Jesus Christ only to preach of Christ and his gospel, but of Latter-day Saints sends missionaries out to gather scattered tribes of the house of into the world to preach the good news of Israel from the four corners of the earth, ac- the gospel, according to church teachings. cording to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

THE REFORMATION In the Book of Mormon, accepted as In 1450, Johannes Gutenberg invented scripture by the church, it says in I Nephi the printing press in Mainz, Germany.

22:11, “Wherefore, the Lord God will pro- Within 50 years the Bible was made availceed to make bare his arm in the eyes of all able to all people. Because the monks and the nations, in bringing about his covenants priests could no longer go with handwritand his gospel unto those who are of the ten script that was often changed, the house of Israel.” printed Bible was canonized.

In his October Semiannual General ConThe printed Bible spread throughout the world and caused the common man and ference talk “Let God Prevail,” President woman to ask questions about deity, their Russell M. Nelson said the following: relationship to God, Christ and about “I have studied the gathering, prayed doctrines. Thus the religious reformaabout it, feasted upon every related scripture, and asked the Lord to increase my tion began. The need to again call people understanding,” Nelson said. to Christ became a mission for men like “So imagine my delight when I was led Martin Luther, John Calvin and others. recently to a new insight. With the help of two Hebrew scholars, I learned that one of THE RESTORATION the Hebraic meanings of the word Israel In 1820, Joseph Smith Jr. went to a is ‘let God prevail.’ Thus the very name of grove of trees near his home to seek unIsrael refers to a person who is willing to let derstanding from God about which of all God prevail in his or her life. That concept the churches he should join. He had what stirs my soul,” Nelson added. members of The Church of Jesus Christ Nelson said the Lord is gathering those of Latter-day Saints call the “The First Viwho are willing to let God prevail in their sion.” lives. And that he is gathering those who Smith records that as he was praying he

BY GENELLE PUGMIRE

COURTESY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

This painting depicts the prophet Joseph Smith Jr.

saw a light, brighter than noon day sun, descend on him and within the light he saw two personages. One introduced the other as his beloved son and that Smith should hear him.

Smith testified that he learned that day that he should join none of the churches but that he would be given more information, according to his own words.

Thus, began a 10-year preparation for Smith, who would, during that decade, obtain the plates on which the Book of Mormon was written. Those were translated, Smith said, by the power of God. The book was printed in March of 1830 with the intent to get it to as many as would read it.

Smith and a handful of believers officially established what Latter-day Saints believe

is the restored Church of Jesus Christ on April 6, 1830.

MISSIONARY WORK BEGINS

Not long after that, Joseph Smith called his brother Samuel Smith to be the first missionary of the church, according to church history.

Growing the church and bringing people from throughout the world to the new Zion was the focused goal of the church.

By October of 1830, men were sent to the western frontier to teach the American Indians. Members of the church believe the Book of Mormon is a history of their people.

Missionaries served in Canada as well.

By 1837, Heber C. Kimball and Orson Hyde had left to teach the gospel in the British Isles, according to church history.

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A9

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COURTESY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

This painting depicts Latter-day Saints and immigrants crossing the Plains to gather with the members of the church in the great Salt Lake Valley.

It was in England, Scotland and Wales that missionary efforts were fruitful. It was not uncommon to have full congregations join the church and immigrate to the United States to live among their brothers and sisters in the church, according to church history.

For instance, the small town of Mendon, near Logan, was started by Scottish converts who moved their entire village in southeast Scotland to Utah, according to the genealogy and family diaries of the late Ivan J. Barrett, whose family came to Mendon.

By the 1850s, missionaries had gone to Chile, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Hawaii, India, Italy, Malta, Scandinavia, South Africa, the South Pacific and Switzerland. By the 1900s, there were missions in Mexico, Samoa, Tahiti and Turkey, according to church information.

Currently there are 67,000 full-time missionaries serving in 399 countries, according to church statistics.

When COVID-19 rules relax and things get back to normalcy, there are 10 missionary training centers that will reopen where missionaries have more intense scriptural and doctrinal training, and in many cases language training as well. Called missionaries are currently receiving training online in their homes.

GATHERING ISRAEL

The importance of gathering Israel and bringing to the gospel cannot be

understated.

During the world LDS leadership meeting held in April 2019, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles provided a doctrinal history of the house of Israel and the prophecies and signs of their gathering in the latter days.

“You wonderful leaders are gathered from across the world. Viewed through a broad, clear lens, we have the great privilege of gathering Israel on both sides of the veil from every continent, culture and religious background.”

At that same meeting, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke of the Savior’s commission to his original disciples to teach all nations, which continues today.

“We know that as we lift the vision of our leaders and members by providing simple, natural and normal patterns for ministering to all through missionary work, the gathering of Israel will accelerate around the world,” Uchtdorf said.

Cook noted that this is one of President Nelson’s most important messages and that he has spent significant time over several years studying the gathering of Israel.

“Speaking on this topic with President Nelson in the audience is like talking about ‘the flood’ with Noah present,” said Cook.

Please SEE MISSIONARY WORK, PAGE A10

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Missionary work

From A9

In the early days of the church, new converts were encouraged to come to the headquarters of the church, whether in Kirtland, Ohio; Nauvoo, Illinois; or Salt Lake City.

By the middle of the 20th century, new converts were encouraged to stay in their own countries and build the church, and gather where they live.

Sometimes, the gathering appears to be happening on its own.

In 2019, the Orem Utah Mission, and most likely others at least in Utah, handed out cards to members of the church asking them to help in the gathering of Israel by praying to be guided to those ready to hear the gospel message.

Elder Craig C. Christensen, an Area Seventy of the church told the missionaries the following: “Make no mistake, the Lord is gathering his elect to Utah. They think they are coming for employment. They think they are coming to be near family and friends. They think they are coming for an education.

Some don’t really know why they are com-

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

of the veil known as death, but the work of gathering is also going on, on the other side.

Nelson and other church general authorities also have spoken of the work of gathering that is happening on both sides of the veil.

In 1959, 62 years ago, then President David O. McKay challenged every member of the church including children to share the gospel and introduced the saying “every member a missionary.”

Condie said during the current pandemic she has talked virtually to mission conferences and gatherings from the Netherlands to Boston. She has seen how the Lord’s work of gathering has continued with a very diverse workforce.

“I have seen missionaries with anxiety, DOMINIC VALENTE, DAILY HERALD FILE PHOTO depression, disabilities including blindness,” Construction workers work on the new Missionary Training Center on Sept. 15, 2016, in Provo.

Condie said. “They continue to proclaim the gospel.” work and the gathering of Israel. ing here. But the reality is that the Lord is “We’re not looking for statistics,” Condie “The gathering is happening everygathering his elect to Utah and he expects added. “Our prophet said everything is the saints to welcome them, embrace them where,” Condie said. She referred to the about gathering Israel.” and share the gospel with them.” death of her sister and how close she was Daily Herald reporter Genelle Pugmire Speaker, author and faith commentator to her and that when she says everywhere, can be contacted at gpugmire@heraldextra.

Ganel-Lyn Condie said she has interviewed she believes that missionary work and the several people on the topic of missionary gathering is not only happening on this side com, (801) 344-2910, Twitter @gpugmire

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March 27-28, 2021 | A11

I Don’t Have Millions, So Why A Trust?

By Christopher Morgan, Attorney Even to me when I first started in this business, the word “trust” evoked an image of some pampered, hot rich kids with overly styled hair, ridiculously small shorts, imbibing on a sailboat off Martha’s Vineyard which I incidentally also picture to be a literal vineyard owned by someone named Martha who looks like the lady on those little boxes of raisins. In spite of my initial assessment I have since found trusts to be extremely useful to people more in line with my own modest paygrade for the following reasons:

First, trusts avoid probate. Probate is the court process wherein a judge orders a deceased person’s property to be distributed to living individuals or creditors according to the terms of a will. If there is no will, this process is the same except the judge orders property to living folks according to the default laws of intestacy. This process can be expensive, and overly long. In Utah a deceased person’s estate must go through probate if they owned a home, had too many vehicles or more than $100,000 in the bank. For most people home ownership is the triggering event. A trust skips the

probate process because it holds title to everything an individual owns so that when they die, there is nothing for the judge to issue orders about. This allows a person to flexibly leave their property behind with very low costs of administration and no court.

The second major benefit of a trust for everyday folks is protection during incapacity. Some of the saddest cases I come across are of kids or other trusted persons caught stealing an elderly person’s money. Often there is really no way to recover stolen funds. A trust can be a protection against financial abuse

because it appoints specific people to be in charge of funds during incapacity while also putting in place a system of reviews on the actions of those designated individuals. A solid trust plan can also remove the need for relatives to ever need to go to court for a guardianship over an incapacitated adult; this results in more freedom and independence at a time in life when both of those can feel fleeting. Takeaway: trusts can be very helpful to just about anybody.

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

‘Back to the future’: Missionaries use technology to enhance work

BY SARAH HARRIS Herald Correspondent

It’s amazing what missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints have been able to do with technology, according to Elder David Antillon, of Vermont, who serves in the Utah Orem Mission.

Technology has furthered the gathering of Israel, Elder Antillon said, allowing missionaries to connect with people worldwide using Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and other social media.

“We’re able to reach out to them and share the restored gospel with them and show them the love that Jesus has for them,” Elder Antillon said.

Missionaries can reach many more people “multiple times over” using technology, according to Elder Caleb Petersen, of Idaho, who also serves in the Utah Orem Mission.

“With technology, I really feel like we’re able to share a message in such a positive way,” Elder Petersen said. “They can be shared not only by the missionaries who are creating content or doing things like that, but members of the church can do it too.”

‘THE ROAD TO HOPE AND PEACE’

More than 30,000 people follow the Utah Orem Mission’s Facebook page “The Road to Hope and Peace,” which shares Christ-centered content daily on a global scale.

“Missionaries and friends and people that are following the page can invite their friends to see that content and to be able to invite the Spirit into their day, into their lives right then to give them that first glimpse into really the gospel and how Christ can impact their lives,” Elder Petersen said.

Pages like “The Road to Hope and Peace” allow missionaries to reach out to people “in a place where they are comfortable seeking their faith and building on their faith,” according to

COURTESY THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Elder Caleb Peterson, right, and Elder David Antillon, missionaries in the Orem Utah Mission, use their phones while teaching a lesson.

Missionaries can reach many more people “multiple times over” using technology, according to Elder Petersen, of Idaho.

Elder Antillon.

“There are people out there, for example, from other countries, where they may not have those opportunities, and we can provide that through social media,” Elder Antillon said.

Missionaries encourage church members, especially youth who have grown up with technology, to share the Facebook page’s message.

“It’s so Christ-centered, it’s so simple, and it’s so plain and short that they can just share it with friends feeling down if they’re going through a rough time,” Elder Petersen said.

LEARNING TO ADAPT

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles counseled missionaries in a recent devotional to “learn, add and adapt technological advances that the Lord has provided to accomplish his work in your time and in your season.”

“Don’t just go back to the old ways.

Go back to the future,” Elder Uchtdorf said, according to a church news release. “Move forward and upward as you apply what you have learned during the pandemic.”

Technology has taken on an even

greater role in gathering Israel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Missionaries have relied on Zoom and other tools to contact those they teach amid restrictions on meeting in person.

“There’s been times here in the Utah Orem Mission where we teach a friend these gospel principles, and we don’t actually meet them until their baptismal day,” Elder Antillon said.

Zoom also allows missionaries to include church members in their lessons remotely, according to Elder Petersen.

Please SEE TECHNOLOGY, PAGE A14

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

Technology

to every nation and language, and in any circumstance.”

“We’ve grown up using technology, so I think if there’s a generation that is built for using technology for missionary work, it’s our generation right now,” Elder Antillon said.

From A12

“There’s a lot of opportunity to stay connected,” Elder Petersen said.

Sister Harriet Uchtdorf, Elder Uchtdorf ’s wife, encouraged missionaries in the devotional to “use the wonders of modern technology to find and teach the gospel with creativity and guided by the Spirit.”

“Use them wisely, counsel together, be grateful, let the Spirit guide you in everything you do,” Sister Uchtdorf said.

Elder Petersen recalled an experience making a 15-minute video lesson using visual tools, music and other media while in quarantine.

“They can watch it, and so they’re still able to have that spirit invited into their home,” Elder Petersen said. “If we can’t be with them, we can still teach them.”

The work of the Lord didn’t stop even in the heart of the pandemic, continuing to go forward with technology, according to Elder Antillon.

“This won’t be stopped,” Elder Antillon said. “There’s always going to be opportu-

‘GATHER THE SEEKERS’

Elder Uchtdorf told missionaries they will “gather the seekers” if they trust God. “You will find people of any nation or language, of any religious or socioeconomic background — everyone,” Elder Uchtdorf said. “With the help of technology, people might even find you.”

Elder Petersen feels technology “has been harnessed for what its real purpose was, to be able to share the gospel in meaningful ways and in ways that are able COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Harriet, speak from to touch so many more lives than it could a recording studio on Temple Square to missionaries around the world during a devotional in have done otherwise.”

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have February. prepared tools everyone can use in ways nities to adapt, to improve constantly, and served during the great pandemic,” Elder that are focused on the gathering of Israel, according to Elder Petersen.

Uchtdorf said, “the ones who learned to this has proved to us that.”

“When we use these tools for a wise use technology and social media in new Future generations will remember and effective ways to proclaim the gospel purpose and we really use them for the today’s missionaries “as those who

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Technology has furthered the gathering of Israel, Elder David Antillon, of Vermont, said, allowing missionaries to connect with people worldwide using Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and other social media.

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH SERVICE TO COUNTRY

CONSTITUTIONAL

Utah congressmen say democratic ideals “Far, we’ve been traveling far, Without a home, but not without a star.

Daily Herald Free, only want to be free, We huddle close, hang on to a dream.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ On the boats and on the planes, of Latter-day Saints by virtue of the scripThey’re coming to America. tures they uphold, including the Book Never looking back again, of Mormon and the Doctrine and CovThey’re coming to America. enants, believe that America is a blessed ... Everywhere around the world, land and that the Founding Fathers were They’re coming to America. wise men raised up by God. Every time that flag’s unfurled, The Book of Mormon lays the foundaThey’re coming to America.” tion and understanding for the gatherIn the Articles of Faith, a list of 13 being of Israel and America’s place in that gathering. It is where the New Jerusalem liefs of the LDS Church written by Joseph will be built and saints will gather to it, Smith Jr., the 10th Article of Faith states: according to church teachings.

“We believe in the literal gathering of Neil Diamond’s song “Coming to Amer- Israel and in the restoration of the Ten ica” says it best when talking about gather- Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will ing to a land blessed above all other lands. be built upon the American continent;

BY GENELLE PUGMIRE

PHOTOS SUPPLIED

U.S. Sen. Mike Lee, a Republican from Utah.

that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.”

paper states.

“These men, like (George) Washington, (James) Madison, and (Thomas) Jefferson, believed that the world had been orgaTHE FOUNDING FATHERS nized by a Divine Creator,” Fox and Baker In their paper “Wise Men Raised Up,” by noted. “They recognized his majesty and Frank W. Fox and Le Grand L. Baker, found glory as reflected in the order and beauty on the church’s website http://churchofjesu- of his creations, but they did not believe schrist.org, they indicate while the Found- that the organized religions of their time represented the omnipotent power, majing Fathers were wise men, they were not attached to organized religion and they had esty, or wisdom of this great Creator.” a wide range of beliefs as to how the country should be operated.

MEMBERS AND AMERICA “Only a minority of the Founders, such Practicing members of the church, as James McHenry, who was president of whether Republican or Democrat or Inthe first Bible Society in Baltimore, condependent, also believe that those who possess this land will be blessed as long as sidered themselves ‘religious’ men in the sense that they attended a church. Most of they worship the God of the land, which the Convention’s leaders were Deists,” the is Jesus Christ, according to scripture.

COURTESY SEN. ROMNEY OFFICE

Senator Mitt Romney

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Republican 2nd District U.S. Rep. Chris Stewart.

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A17

FOUNDATION

in harmony with latter-day work Hence, LDS elected leaders say they worship the God of the Land, but they do the business of the country.

In the Doctrine and Covenants, section 101:78, the Lord says that he raised up these “wise men” to establish a government which would nurture and defend individual freedom, “that every man may act in doctrine and principle … according to the moral agency which I have given unto him.”

The fundamental philosophy of the Founding Fathers was very consistent with that purpose, according to Fox and Baker.

John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington did not live to see the restoration of Christ’s church on the earth, as LDS Church members believe. In fact, Adams and Jefferson died on the same day, July 4, 1826. But LDS members do believe

God was with them in their endeavors of establishing the government.

Just 33 years following the signing of the Constitution, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established Smith.

He not only had revelations concerning the importance of the United States government and future commotions within in it, but prior to his martyrdom, Smith ran for the U.S. presidency, according to church history.

In 1877, Wilford Woodruff, the fourth president of the church, reportedly had a vision in the newly opened St. George Temple in which several eminent men and women “demanded” to have their temple work completed. Among them were the signers of the Constitution and other Founding Fathers, including

COURTESY REP. JOHN CURTIS

Rep. John Curtis

George Washington.

Woodruff had their temple work completed and the men received the priesthood, vicariously.

ENCOURAGED TO SERVE

elected and served.

Notable long-term members of recent times in Congress include Senator Harry Reid (D-Nevada), who served 30 years and was the Senate Majority Leader from 2007 to 2015; and Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), who served 42 years from 1977-2019. He is the longest-serving Republican U.S. Senator in history and the longest-serving U.S. Senator from Utah.

At the time he left the Senate, Hatch was fourth in line to the presidency.

Since Joseph Smith, prophets of the LDS Church, particularly President Ezra Taft Benson, who served as Secretary of Agriculture under President Dwight D. Eisenhower while serving as an apostle, have called upon members of the church to run for office.

Fast forward 234 years from the signing MEMBERS CURRENTLY SERVING of the Constitution and we see over time As of 2021, there are nine members of many have heeded those promptings and the LDS Church serving as members of callings and have thrown their hats into Congress. the congressional ring or in their state Please SEE CONGRESSMEN, PAGE A18 and local governments. Many have been

PHOTO SUPPLIED

U.S. Rep. Blake Moore, who represents Utah’s 1st District.

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD FILE PHOTO

Utah Republican Rep. Burgess Owens.

A18 | March 27-28, 2021

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

SCOTT SONNER, ASSOCIATED PRESS

COURTESY DANIEL SHIPPEY

In this April 3, 2018, file photo, former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid speaks during a joint appearance with former U.S. Daniel Shippey official Interpreter of George Washington at Secretary of State John Kerry during a lecture series at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Mount Vernon.

Congressmen

Hyde was one of the first members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and was sent by Joseph Smith to the From A17 Holy Land. He preached from April 1841 to December 1842, and proselyted in Palestine.

The Utah delegation, all of whom are members of Lee said the words of the prayer reflected the physical the LDS Church, include: Senators Mike Lee and Mitt Romney, and from the House of Representatives are John gathering and also the spiritual gathering of Israel.

“In many ways, his (Hyde’s) words have come to pass Curtis, Blake Moore, Burgess Owens and Chris Stewart. that are quite stunning,” Lee said. “In 180 years, it’s quite Outside of Utah, there are three members serving in remarkable what’s happened in the Holy Land.”

Congress: Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and RepreOne of the stories Lee shared was about a dinner he sentatives Andy Biggs (R-Arizona) and Mike Simpson and his wife had as a senator with Israeli Prime Minister (R-Idaho).

With the gathering of Israel being the most important Benjamin Netanyahu. Lee’s wife had attended school at the Brigham Young University Jerusalem Center, which work members of the LDS Church are to be engaged in, according to President Russell M. Nelson, and the impor- was a point of discussion.

“When we told him (Netanyahu) that my wife was a tant roles in government leadership, the two callings to direct descendant of Orson Hyde his face lit up,” Lee said. serve have an important space in the lives of the current “He said, ‘You’re related to Orson Hyde?’ ” leaders from Utah in Washington.

“We were surprised he had heard of him,” Lee added.

Each representative has had experiences or opportuni“He (Netanyahu) said ‘he had a profound effect on our ties to see how gathering Israel is a part of their WashingZionist movement.” ton experience.

It was then Lee was able to share an excerpt of Hyde’s dedicatory prayer with the Prime Minister.

SENATOR MIKE LEE Lee acknowledged that as a Latter-day Saint, he’s not in “Every time I think of the gathering of Israel, I reflect on the dedicatory prayer of Orson Hyde,” said Mike Lee. the majority on Capitol Hill. But his faith is a part of him Hyde gave a dedicatory prayer in 1841 in the Holy Land and that goes with him even into the halls of Congress.

“I can’t imagine my faith not being a part of anything and dedicated the land for the return of the Jews; a gathI do, ” Lee said. “The Lord established the Constitution ering place for the tribe of Judah.

by hands of men he raised up for that purpose. I firmly believe that is church doctrine. That knowledge brings a sense of urgency.”

Ezra Taft Benson was the president of the church when Lee was in college. “He’d tell us it’s our job to know the Constitution and defend it,” Lee said.

Lee said one thing his dad (former BYU President Rex E. Lee) taught him and his siblings was to defend the Constitution. “That doesn’t mean the document wasn’t infallible, it’s not divine like scripture is divine.”

His father pointed out there should be a shared commitment to its importance.

SENATOR MITT ROMNEY

Perhaps one of the most well-known members of the church in Congress is Sen. Mitt Romney. His faith and belief in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints played a major role in public perception during his first bid for the presidency in 2008. He ran again in 2012 through the primaries.

“The ability of our church to share its message in the world is incredible,” Romney said. “The message of our membership is directly related to democracy and human rights. Those working to foster these conditions are spreading the gospel.”

Please SEE CONGRESSMEN, PAGE A20

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A19

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

Congressmen

Our common foundation breaks down walls.”

From A18

Romney says he has seen the horrific signs around the world of the need for people to be gathered.

“I recognize the challenges of war, pestilence and human tragedy will only be overcome with acceptance of the gospel,” Romney said. “I do everything in my power to improve the conditions and preserve the qualities of life.”

While serving his state and country, Romney said he looks inward to find strength.

“I endeavor to abide by the covenants I’ve made in my personal conduct,” Romney said. “The principles of the church are universal and should be accepted worldwide.”

While he isn’t in Congress to be a missionary for the church, people he meets are always curious about his faith and the church he belongs to.

“It is very normal with my interactions DAILY HERALD FILE PHOTO with leaders around the world to discuss Former Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, poses for a my faith, ” Romney said. “Our faith is rephoto at the Daily Herald in Provo on April 6, spected and I share my respect for theirs.

2015.

Gathering Israel

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REP. JOHN CURTIS

Curtis has had many interesting opportunities to see the gathering of Israel from his vantage point on the Foreign Affairs Committee. “It has taken us places where the church is growing and flourishing,” he said.

“In a very humble way, I say I am a piece of a very large puzzle, a piece as a member of Congress where I have a role,” Curtis said.

Curtis shared a unique and highly unexpected opportunity while visiting Rwanda.

Prior to leaving, he spoke with a representative of the church if there were any concerns he should bring up.

One of the issues Curtis was told about was a newly passed law that said unless a person had a college degree they could not lead religious congregations and religious groups must worship in a building with specific requirements.

This law would be devastating for members of the church in Rwanda.

“As it turned out, they scheduled an unscheduled (dinner) meeting with the president of Rwanda at his home,” Curtis said. “Speaking with him goes in line of seniority. I was the youngest in the group in seniority.”

Curtis said he wasn’t sure how or why he was seated at the president’s table because it was a breach of protocol, but he was. And that gave him an opportunity to bring up the law that would affect members of the church who meet in homes and without being degreed.

“I see the hand of God around the world,” Curtis said. “The work moves on.”

In January, when Congress was in its darkest hours and trying to get a bipartisan vote on the COVID-19 bill, Curtis said he was walking through the rotunda of the Capitol late at night and he had a special moment realizing that he was serving in there. “How cool is that?” Curtis said to himself.

“One of my beliefs is in the beauty of the Constitution. It is far more resilient than what we give it credit,” Curtis said.

“There have been a lot of things that have stretched that fabric, the Civil War, Watergate, etc. We’re in an era where it is being stretched. In an era where we see and feel more contention.

“It is amazing the founders built in the

Constitution a self-healing government,” Curtis said. “It’s bigger than any man or any cause, it’s amazing. We’ll emerge from this era stronger.”

He also believes that we will continue to see the gathering of Israel and that individuals will need to take a role in the success of this nation.

REP. BLAKE MOORE

Rep. Blake Moore is new to the congressional scene. He was elected in November and began serving in January. He represents District 1, which includes his hometown of Ogden. He says he believes his role in congress is to be truthful and genuine.

“I am, who I am. I have spent over 40 years trying to do good in life,” Moore said.

“I have a family that has taught me Christlike principles, including building relationships that are built on common ground.

“I don’t get too doctrinal here (in Congress), but focus on Christ-like living,” Moore said.

Moore hasn’t seen much yet from around the world in his assignments, but he does believe the strength of the nation and the Constitution is an influence in bringing people to this land.

“I would probably look to my belief in the Constitution and looking for a better life found in that founding document,” Moore said.

Moore says his office is focused on aspirational, pro-growth politics. He would like to bring more people to those core principles. He adds that Utah does some very important things.

“We are fiscally responsible and philanthropic,” Moore said. He believes that is why many people are drawn to the state.

As for the influence his faith has in his life, Moore said, “I make prayerful thoughtful decisions. I have a testimony of God’s influence in our lives.”

REP. BURGESS OWENS

Rep. Burgess Owens is also a junior Congressman, having been elected in November and beginning his term in January. He represents the 4th District.

Owens was not raised in the LDS Church, but converted in 1983. In 1984, he received his patriarchal blessing. A patriarchal blessing is given to individuals for their own personal use and members of the LDS Church believe it is personal revelation from God to them.

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

Owens said his blessing indicated that he would work with and influence the youth of the world. That is what he has done. When he came to Utah he had already served 30-plus years with youth. He said he felt he could do something different in Utah.

“I felt like I had a chance to do something for Utah and our country,” Owens said.

Owens say he sees the attack on families and freedom, and is grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ in his life. When it comes to the gathering of Zion, he said members need to keep worshipping their faith.

“We need to get back to teaching of heavenly faith,” Owens said. “We need to fight back at what’s coming at us. Americans are taking freedom for granted.

“I want to be a uniter,” Owens added.

“As long as we have the same end game.

No matter how we worship, let’s dig into our faith.”

Owens said he encourages those concerned to have faith, “American people are good.”

March 27-28, 2021 | A21

REP. CHRIS STEWART

Rep. Chris Stewart has served the longest of the Utah delegation. He began serving in January 2013.

Stewart’s congressional office was contacted on several occasions over the past two months for this article, but calls and inquiries were not returned.

Stewart served an LDS Mission in Texas, followed by graduating from Utah State University. He went on to spend 14 years in the Air Force, where he flew rescue helicopters, jet aircraft and eventually the B-1 bomber.

After returning to private life, Stewart was the president and CEO of the Shipley Group, and served as a consultant on energy and environmental projects and issues.

The company also was involved with government anti-terrorism training, security and preparedness. He gave up his portion of the company when he was elected to Congress.

Stewart is also the author of 17 bestselling books.

Daily Herald reporter Genelle Pugmire can be contacted at gpugmire@heraldextra. com, (801) 344-2910, Twitter @gpugmire

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH PANDEMIC PROTOCOLS

PHOTOS COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVES

In the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made some adjustments in COVID-19 practices to be in line with state-of-emergency mandates in Utah.

Spiritual gathering continues despite physical restrictions

BY SARAH HARRIS

Herald Correspondent

Starting in November, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began to meet safely in church and for other meetings and activities if allowed by area presidencies and area health conditions.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints one year ago in March 2020 temporarily suspended gatherings of church members worldwide in response to COVID-19.

But despite limitations on physical gatherings, the spiritual work of gathering Israel has continued to progress in the last year.

“In challenging times, disciples of Jesus Christ continue to follow Him by participating in His work of salvation and exaltation,” an enclosure with a September 2020 First Presidency letter reads. “He invites us to participate by progressing on the covenant path and helping others do the same however circumstances allow.”

MISSIONARY WORK

Speakers from the General Authorities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints address the worldwide conference in October by remote means due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints asked members to give virtually during the 2020 holidays.

Giving Machines were not set up due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Church leaders implemented temporary adjustments to missionary service in March 2020 that included releasing or reassigning many missionaries.

As guidelines have changed, the church’s missionary force, reduced from 62,000 before the pandemic to 40,000 in March 2020, has now steadily increased to 54,000, according to a February church news release.

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in a devotional called the increase a welcome boon because missionaries are the “extended arms of the 12 apostles” today, according to

the release.

Missionaries also have used technology throughout the pandemic to conduct their teaching and training.

Technology has allowed missionaries in the field to teach thousands of lessons every week from their apartments, according to a June 2020 church news release.

“We’re learning new ways to do missionary work,” said Elder Brent Nielson, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the church’s Missionary Department, in the release. “And I think people are actually more receptive online than they are with someone knocking on their door or trying to stop them on the street.”

Several thousand newly called missionaries transitioned to online training as the church’s 10 missionary training centers closed due to the pandemic, according to the release.

“We teach them the same things, we practice the same things with them, and hopefully they’re just as prepared as the ones that come (to the center),” said Bryce Tripp, an MTC instructor from Arizona, in the release.

TEMPLES

Following the temporary suspension of all temple activity in March 2020, the church introduced a cautious phased reopening of temples in May 2020.

Please SEE PANDEMIC, PAGE A24

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

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A24 | March 27-28, 2021

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

Pandemic From A22

Of the church’s 168 operating temples, 10 are Phase 1 (living husband-and-wife sealings by appointment), 122 in Phase 2 (all living ordinances by appointment), 19 in Phase 3 (all living and limited proxy ordinances by appointment), eight paused and nine closed, as of March 22.

Of Utah’s 17 operating temples, 15 are currently in Phase 2. The Salt Lake and St. George temples are closed for renovation.

Temple construction efforts and groundbreaking ceremonies have continued during the pandemic.

Effective March 29, 14 temples will begin Phase 2-B, opening for all living ordinances and proxy baptisms by appointment.

“We are grateful for this opportunity for more members to participate in temple ordinances,” church President Russell M. Nelson said in a March 15 church news release.

Amid the pandemic, President Nelson also announced plans to build 14 new temples throughout the world in the April and October 2020 general conferences.

“As we build and maintain these temples, we pray that each of you will build and COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE maintain yourself so you can be worthy to A missionary at Salt Lake City International Airport returning from the Philippines on March 22, 2020. enter the holy temple,” President Nelson said after announcing six new temples in October 2020. pated in had never been thought of,” Elder Bednar said.

There never would have been the inspiraFAMILY HISTORY RootsTech, FamilySearch’s annual famtion or opportunity to present RootsTech Connect, Elder Bednar said, without the ily history conference, was held virtually in constraints imposed by COVID-19.

February due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“If we have eyes to see and ears to hear, More than 1 million participants from then in limitations and in constraints, there over 235 countries and territories regcan be remarkable blessings, and I would istered for the free conference, making suggest to you that this leadership session RootsTech Connect 2021 “the largest is one of those remarkable blessings,” Elder gathering in the event’s 10-year history,” Bednar said. according to a February church news release.

“I think the pandemic will be rememWORSHIP bered as the greatest accelerant,” said Steve Home-centered worship took on new Rockwood, CEO of FamilySearch Internameaning after church gatherings were temporarily suspended in March 2020. tional, according to the release. “People are Priesthood holders administered the sacturning their hearts to their family, whether it’s past, present or future.” rament in members’ homes.

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum “During this historic pandemic and COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE of the Twelve Apostles in the “Temple and A young priesthood holder offers the sacrament to a family during a modified church service worldwide paralyzation, our home has Family History Leadership Instruction” become our refuge, our holy place, our in the Carrollton Ward, Washington, D.C., on Aug. 16. session of the conference asked participants center of worship,” said Benjamin Poóu to consider how technology had made pos- time, it’s also local,” Elder Bednar said.

Chiquin, a father of five in Guatemala, in Bednar. an August church news release.

COVID-19 has caused unusual con“When we began thinking about how sible this meeting “involving people from this leadership session would be planned all over the world.” straints and limitations on interactions and and presented, most of what you’ve partici“It’s truly global, and at the exact same travel in the last year, according to Elder Please SEE PANDEMIC, PAGE A26

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A25

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

Pandemic From A24

The church for more than a year leading up to the pandemic had followed a home-centered curriculum President Nelson announced during the October 2018 general conference.

“We are blessed that we have the prophet, who is called of God,” said Lizzie Mohodisa, of South Africa, in the August release. “The programs that were put in place (in January 2019) were in a way, now that we look back, preparing us for this period. Now we can manage to do home-based sessions without a problem.”

The church announced a careful phased return to weekly worship services and activities in May 2020.

“We are grateful for inspired patterns of ministering and homecentered, Church-supported efforts that allow the Lord’s work to move forward in current conditions,” the First Presidency said in a September 2020 letter updating guidelines.

A group of Mandarinspeaking missionaries is trained online by an instructor from the Provo Missionary Training Center on May 19.

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A27

GATHERING ISRAEL THROUGH TEMPLE WORK

Veiled optimism alive in temple, family history work

BY SARAH HARRIS Herald Correspondent

Hundreds of thousands of family history enthusiasts, many for the very first time, participated in RootsTech Connect 2021 making it the largest gathering in the event’s 10-year history.

COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE

Family history and missionary work are the same work.

This is something most members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints never quite figure out, according to Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

“There’s only one work,” Elder Bednar said in the “Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction” session of RootsTech Connect 2021, a virtual family history conference in February.

That work is the gathering of Israel on both sides of the veil, Elder Bednar told a youth panel during the session.

“The ancestors in the spirit world have a keen interest in their ancestors being taught the gospel by members of the church and missionaries because those living ancestors hold the key to open the door to the ordinances of salvation for those who are in the spirit world receiving the message of the gospel,” Elder Bednar said.

The church’s President Russell M. Nelson has said gathering Israel on both sides of the veil refers to missionary, temple and family history work, as well as “building faith and testimony in the hearts of those with whom we live, work and serve.”

“Anytime we do anything that helps anyone — on either side of the veil — to make and keep their covenants with God, we are helping to gather Israel,” President Nelson said in his October 2020 general conference address “Let God Prevail.”

Please SEE HISTORY, PAGE A28

A28 | March 27-28, 2021

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

History From A27

‘THE FAMILY OF GOD’

Visitors use computers in the church’s Family History Library to access information about their ancestors.

PHOTOS COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE

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Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in a Family Discovery Day keynote session of RootsTech Connect 2021 said God’s “great work of exaltation can also be our work.”

“Speaking specifically of family history and temple experience, the more we engage in gathering all of God’s children on both sides of the veil, the closer we get to God,” Elder Holland said.

Everyone has a role to play in this work, according to Elder Holland.

“This mighty work of salvation is moving forward as we are connecting and binding and linking all of God’s children to each other on both sides of the veil,” Elder Holland said.

An eternal perspective, Elder Holland said, brings “understanding that we are all part of one big family: the family of God.” “I promise you that it is engaging in our personal family history and the temple experience it leads to that we discover the reality of our eternal relationship as brothers and sisters in the family of God,” Elder Holland said.

Sister Patricia Terry Holland, Elder Holland’s wife, said in the session “we are missing the mark if when we tap into our family roots, we fail to recognize our divine roots, our foundation and our connection to our Father in Heaven.”

“He loves us, he worries about us and he hopes we will listen to the counsel he wishes to give us,” Sister Holland said. “I love thinking that my husband and I and our children are safe in Heavenly Father’s arms forever if we keep his commandments and truly desire that blessing.”

Elder and Sister Holland shared personal and family connections to their homeland in Southern Utah during the session. But the one connection most important of all is one’s connection to God, Elder Holland said.

“When you attend to that connection to God first, all other connections fall into place,” Elder Holland said. “Then, and really only then, you find your true place and your eternal belonging.”

Elder Holland promised “the closer you get to God, the more you will want to be with him and to be like him.”

“That will include understanding his love and his greatest desire, namely to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of all his children,” Elder Holland said.

Engaging in family history and temple work shows God one cares about him, his family and his purposes, according to Elder Holland.

“As you forge a bond with your Father in Heaven, he will forge a bond with you,” Elder Holland said. “He will speak to you and he will help you see the part you play in his eternal work.”

Please SEE HISTORY, PAGE A30

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

March 27-28, 2021 | A29

PHOTOS COURTESY INTELLECTUAL RESERVE

A screen shot of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland and his wife, Patricia, from their RootsTech Connect broadcast during Family Discovery Day on Feb. 27.

ABOVE: More than 1 million family history enthusiasts attended the all-virtual RootsTech Connect 2021 in February. RIGHT: Filming the RootsTech Connect keynote address of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Patricia, in St. George. The video aired during Family Discovery Day on Feb. 27.

A30 | March 27-28, 2021

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

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History From A28

Efforts in this work, Elder Holland said, are recorded by the angels in heaven.

“What a reunion you will have with your eternal brothers and sisters who see you as their saviors on Mount Zion because you opened the door for them to receive the gospel of Jesus Christ,” Elder Holland said.

Those who take part in this work will find their own place in the family of God, Elder Holland promised.

“The reality of your connection to him and others will sink deep into your heart and into your mind,” Elder Holland said. “That knowledge will change you, perhaps dramatically change you, as you become ever closer to him and ever more like him.”

‘HEAR HIM’

President Nelson extended an invitation in his April 2020 general conference address “Hear Him” to increase participation in family history, including fam-

ily history research and indexing, while worshipping in the temple is not possible amid temporary COVID-19 restrictions.

“I promise that as you increase your time in temple and family history work, you will increase and improve your ability to hear him,” President Nelson said.

Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the “Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction” session of RootsTech Connect 2021 said this promise applies to personal efforts as well as those in temple, family history and missionary callings, which “help individual members and their families gather Israel on both sides of the veil.”

“This is a spiritual work, a work that relies on and fosters revelation,” Elder Renlund said.

Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said in the session “there are countless experiences and stories that describe how family history is a revelatory process.”

“As we pray for those on the other side of the veil, the Spirit guides us,” Elder Stevenson said.

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General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

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A32 | March 27-28, 2021

General Conference Guide - Spring 2021

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