Sisters and Brothers—
When I was young, I remember looking forward to general conference because it meant I could lounge in comfortable clothes, eat homemade treats and spend time with my family without putting on a tie.
I would also try to listen enough so that I would have a good answer when my parents asked me about which talk was my favorite or what I learned from the sessions.
Now that I’m older, I still look forward to general conference. And, while I still love a day without white shirts and ties, I’ve learned to love the weekend-long revelatory session that provides perspective and insight to the crazy world we live in.
Elder Neal A. Andersen shared his thoughts on part of what general conference brings to those who hear.
“The teachings of general conference are the considerations the Lord would have before us now and in the months ahead.
“The shepherd ‘goeth before [his sheep], and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.’
“Often His voice directs us to change something in our lives. He invites us to repent. He invites us to follow Him.”
Neal A. Andersen, “The Voice of the Lord,” October 2017
Next weekend, we will have the chance to listen to the voice of the Lord for our times and from His chosen servants.
What will we hear?
I hope that we prayerfully participate in the conference. If I take specific questions into my conference participation, I receive specific answers. I encourage each of you to approach general conference next weekend with a humble heart. Be willing to receive counsel and respond to the call of the Lord. As you do, I know you’ll have promptings that will teach you what the Lord needs you to do.
I look forward to seeing those of you whose last names begin with letters from Q to Z this week in sacrament meeting. For those who are unable to attend, I authorize the sacrament to be administered again by worthy priesthood holders of appropriate priesthood office.
I also look forward to expanding worship services in the coming weeks. As those plans are finalized in the coming days, I will let you all know what the plan is.
I love you and hope that you enjoy the chance to hear the words of the prophets — baked goods encouraged, but not required.
Bishop Bennett