Super Short General Conference Talk Summaries: April 2025

Happy Conference Weekend!   Here are some super-short summaries of each of the talks in the April 2025 General Conference.   I love doing these, because they're helpful for me to help keep me focused during conference and I like looking back on them to help me remember the main themes of each talk. Links to the actual talks are included now. 

SATURDAY MORNING: 

President Jeffrey R. Holland
As A Little Child
HUMBLE YOURSELVES AND BECOME AS A CHILD
Shared stories about lessons we can learn children

President Camille N. Johnson
Spiritually Whole In Him
BECOME WHOLE THROUGH JESUS CHRIST AND TRUST IN GOD'S TIMING FOR PHYSICAL HEALING
We can become spiritually whole, without being healed.

Elder Ronald Rasband
Right Before Our Eyes
THE WORK IS HASTENING FORWARD AND WE NEED TO MAKE SURE WE ARE GIVING THE LORD OUR FAIR SHARE OF OUR TIME
Jesus Christ is the answer and now is the time to engage in the work.

Elder Quentin Cook
The Atonement of Jesus Christ Provides  the Ultimate Rescue
JESUS RESCUES US FROM THE HARDSHIPS AND UNFAIRNESS IN LIFE
Shared many pioneer stories and how sometimes we need to be rescued and other times we need to be the rescuer.  Christ is the rescuer of all.

Elder Ricardo Gimenez
My Love for the Savior is My "Why"
MAKE JESUS OUR "WHY" IN ALL WE DO
Our love for the Savior should influence our actions, traditions, goals, and activities.

President Henry B. Eyring
"Draw Near Unto Me"
WHEN WE DRAW NEAR UNTO JESUS, HE WILL DRAW NEARER TO US
Just like it is natural to keep communicating with long-lost friends and relatives to keep the bonds strong, we should be seeking to commune with God each day to keep those bonds stronger.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON

Elder Neil Andersen
LIFE IS SACRED
Cherishing Life

Elder Steven Lund
THERE IS GREAT POWER IN ORDINANCES
Divine Authority, Sublime Young Men
Priesthood ordinations are the beginning of a lifetime of priesthood service and reason to celebrate.

Elder S. Mark Palmer
COME BACK AND BE HEALED THROUGH JESUS:  THERE IS A PLACE FOR ALL IN THE CHURCH
Return Unto Me....That I May Heal You
The journey back is often not easy or comfortable and can take time and a lot of love, but all that is broken can be healed.

Elder Sandino Roman
FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST IS A BOND OF TRUST MANIFEST IN LOVE AND LOYALTY
Faith: A Bond of Trust and Loyalty
Center faith on Christ and reach for Him with the intensity of a drowning man.   We need to trust Jesus and expect miracles, but let God prevail.

Elder Dale Renlund
DECEIVERS AND DISCIPLES:  BECOME YOUR BEST SELF THROUGH JESUS CHRIST AND LEARN TO AVOID DECEPTION
Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior
Faith is built drop by drop with small acts of daily devotion.   Seek to find ways to serve. 

Elder Hans Boom
LET THE STORIES OF FAITH FROM THE PAST BUILD US AND LET US LIVE LIVES THAT WILL INSPIRE THOSE IN THE FUTURE
True to the Faith that Our Parents Have Cherished

Elder Dieter Uchtdorf
JOIN IN THE BEAUTIFUL SONG OF REDEEMING LOVE:  WE ALL HAVE OUR OWN PARTS IN THE "CHOIR" OF THE GOSPEL--TOGETHER WE CAN CREATE A BEAUTIFUL HARMONY AND HELP BRING OTHERS TO CHRIST
"By This All Will Know That You Are My Disciples"
Shared story of bringing a nonmember friend to church and being a little judgmental about some of the imperfections he perceived, but later he realized that he was focusing on the wrong things.   The people were loving and welcoming to his friend and that mattered far more than any imperfection in teaching or speaking.   Let us be loving and each do our part to build up the kingdom in unity and point people to Christ . 

SATURDAY EVENING

Elder Gary Stevenson
"And We Talk of Christ"
LET'S SEEK TO MAKE OUR EASTER CELEBRATIONS MORE CENTERED ON CHRIST
Our divine center is Jesus Christ and we should do more to make it an Easter SEASON focusing on Christ, rather that just a fun holiday of bunnies and candy.   The new symbol of the Church showing Christ under an arch is symbolic of the resurrected Christ rising from the tomb. 

Sister Amy Wright
TRUE DISCIPLESHIP CHANGES US
 Thou Art the Christ
Be careful not to become casual in our discipleship.  Christ calls us "one by one" to come unto Him.

Elder James Rasband
FIND MERCY IN CHRIST
The Plan of Mercy
Take time to ponder on the Lord's mercy when we seek for guidance, direction, or peace.   He referred to  Moroni 10:3-5 and emphasized that before we seek for truth in verse 4, we should do as is mentioned in verse 3 to "remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men...and ponder it in your hearts."

Elder Sergio Vargas
FOCUSING ON JESUS CHRIST WILL HELP US "FIND OUR WAY HOME"
Our Heavenly Guidance System
We cannot exhaust Christ's merciful patience.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson
TRUE WORSHIP IS TRANSFORMATIVE
Worship
Worship is far more than just attendance at church, it needs to influence our actions, attitudes, and inspire us to try to emulate Deity.  Emulation is the sincerest form veneration. 

SUNDAY MORNING

Elder David Bednar
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS IS CHRIST'S NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH RESTORED TO THE EARTH
The Times of Restitution of All Things

Elder Steven Shumway
BLESSINGS OF SERVING IN THE KINGDOM
Participate to Prepare for Christ's Return
Fulfilling callings help us to fulfill the measure of our creation. God doesn't expect perfection; he just expects us give our best effort and He will sanctify us to be enough.  

Sister Tamara Runia
YOUR WORTH & GOD'S LOVE IS CONSTANT AND IT'S NOT TIED TO ANY EXTERNAL FORCE.
Your Repentance Doesn't Burden Jesus Christ; It Brightens His Joy
Heaven isn't for perfect people, but for those that keep trying and turning to God. You are not the voice in your head.  Repentance is a gift, not a burden.

Elder Gérald Caussé
GOD WILL GIVE US EVERY POSSIBLE BLESSING TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE LIMITATIONS OF OUR MORTAL LIFE.
Compensating Blessings
God knows our circumstances and limitations and is just and merciful.  Our abilities are less important than our willingness.

Elder Gerrit Gong
EASTER IS A SPECIAL TIME TO REMEMBER CHRIST AND THE ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH
Eternity's Great Gifts: Jesus Christ's Atonement, Resurrection, Restoration
Christ gives us beauty for ashes.

Elder John McCune
CONNECTING WITH GOD AND CHRIST THROUGH COVENANT DISCIPLESHIP
Joy Through Covenant Discipleship
 God's plan and perspective are perfect.  Christ gives us the peace that passes all understanding. 
 
President Dallin H. Oaks
GOD GIVES US MANY HELPS/PROTECTIONS TO HELP US DISCERN GOOD FROM EVIL
Divine Helps for Mortality
Don't neglect the routine maintenance  items like prayer, scripture study, and regular repentance 

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Elder Ulisses Soares
EMBRACE THE AMAZING GIFT OF REVERENCE FOR THE SACRED AND WE WILL BE BLESSED WITH AWE
Reverence for Sacred Things
Reverence is the essence of the gospel.  Be careful how use AI and how you portray the Savior.

Elder Michael Strong
DISCIPLESHIP OF JESUS IS A WAY OF LIFE AND TAKES DELIBERATE EFFORT.
Charity--A Sign of True Discipleship
Emulation and charity are elemens of discipleship.

Elder Scott Whiting
DON'T HIDE FROM THOSE THAT WILL LOVE AND SUPPORT YOU: ESPECIALLY GOD.  YOU CANNOT HIDE FROM A LOVING FATHER.
Beware the Second Temptation
What we do when we succumb to "first temptations" is important; hiding or not repenting is the great "second temptation"

Elder Christopher Kim 
WHEN WE HARDEN OUR HEARTS, WE CLOSE OFF THE INFLUENCE OF THE HOLY GHOST
Harden Not Your Hearts
Three ways not to harden our hearts:  1. Daily repentance 2. Practice humility  3.  Trust and rely on our Savior

Elder Patrick Kearon
TO TRULY RECEIVE A GIFT, WE COME TO VALUE IT, USE IT IN OUR DAILY LIFE, AND APPRECIATE THE GIVER AND THE GIFT.
Receive His Gift
The knowledge that we are God's children is a gift of knowledge we've been given.  

Elder Benjamin Tai 
WE FEEL GOD'S LOVE WHEN WE DO THINGS THAT DRAW US CLOSER TO HIM.
The Love of God
Act promptly when you receive promptings, pause frequently and remember that you are a child of God.

President Russell M. Nelson
CHARITY AND VIRTUE OPEN THE WAY OF HAVING CONFIDENCE BEFORE GOD.
Confidence in the Presence of God
We all experience challenges in life that can share our confidence.   Anger never persuades and hateful words are deadly weapons.  Be charitable to others in public and in private.   We should lead the way in being peacemakers. 

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PS  Have you seen all my Come, Follow Me activity sheets and resources?   Check it out here...

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General Conference Activity Packet: April 2025

 Hello, friends! 

I don't get to it very often, but I have finally pulled myself together and have created a General Conference Activity Packet for all of you  --young and old-- who like to keep their hands / brains awake during Conference. 

Here is the link to the PDF on Google Drive (in case it's not showing below)

In it you'll find engaging activities and pages for taking notes.    

Have a wonderful General Conference weekend!   

PS  Have you seen all my Come, Follow Me activity sheets and resources?   Check it out here...

SUPER SHORT General Conference Talk Summaries {Sunday Sessions/April 2023}

Here are the summaries I came up with for the talks from the Sunday sessions of General Conference in April 2023. This was a great exercise to keep me focused during the talks and I hope they're helpful to someone else out there.   

Disclaimer:   These notes are rough and there was no attempt to be grammatically correct; they're simply summaries of each talk.  

Click here for my  summaries from the Saturday session of April 2023.  

SUNDAY MORNING:

D. TODD CHRISTOFFERSON

  BE ONE IN CHRIST.
 Begin with yourself to find oneness, Christ will help us find unity, love one another as we love ourself AND as He loves us.  Story of BH Roberts and his experience being offended by church leaders and eventually seeking unity and peace again.  Unity doesn't require sameness, but it does require harmony.  

CAMILLE N. JOHNSON
JESUS CHRIST CAN LIGHTEN OUR LOADS
 What heavy "rocks" are we carrying in our backpacks?  Yoke yourself to the Savior and gain His strength to help you lift your life's burdens.  Sometimes we are too prideful and we try to do life alone... but we need the Savior!  Repentance is what relieves us of the rocks of sin.  The atonement can help us find forgiveness for wrongs that have been committed against us, thereby relieving us of more heavy rocks that burden us. Jesus Christ IS relief. The relief he offers us is everlasting. 

ULISSES SOARES
EMBRACE CHARITY AND SHUN CONTENTION
 Heal contention that may be weighing us down.  Christ is the best example of charity. Seek to develop the characteristics of charity {love, patience, humility, etc}, so that we can treat others the way Christ would.  Satan rejoices when we have discord and contention.  The gospel represents good tidings of great joy--don't get caught up in the contentions of the world. Joy, peace, and spiritual growth can be ours if we turn to Him and seek to have charity. 

KAZUHIKO YAMASHITA
PATRIARCHAL BLESSINGS ARE FOR ALL!
 Patriarchal blessings are for all ages (with no maximum age).   They are NOT just for those preparing to serve missions.   If you have a desire, do not be afraid to pursue and prepare to receive a patriarchal blessings.  Two purposes of Patriarchal Blessings:   1.  personal counsel from the Lord to you  2.  declares your lineage in the House of Israel.  It's a message from your Heavenly Father.  It is a guide, but it's not going to map out your life.

NEIL L. ANDERSEN
LET OUR THOUGHTS BE ON CHRIST
When Alma the Younger caught hold of Jesus Christ, his heart was changed. Let our thoughts be circumscribed of Jesus Christ in every aspect of our lives.   We are spirit children of God.  View the world through the lens of our love for Christ and let go of things that don't fit his mission. He will bring us hope, peace, and love to all parts of our lives. 

KEVIN R. DUNCAN
 CHRIST'S WORK  IS DONE IN TEMPLES
Families can be united in the temple.   Think about the doctrine of eternal families through the lens of a nonmember or new member.  Every time we attend the temple and live up to our covenants, it is a protection from the adversary.  You will feel joy as you serve in the temple. 

RUSSELL M. NELSON
FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF CHRIST AND TREAT OTHERS WITH CIVILITY AND RESPECT
 We live in an era of incivility where people feel like it is okay to vilify those who do not agree with them.   Contention never leads to inspired solutions. How compassionately do we treat other people...including those who do not agree with us?  True disciples of Christ build, lift, inspire, and encourage others.   Contention is evil and drives away the spirit--become a peacemaker now and always.  Those who foster contention are taking a page out of Satan's playbook.  If there is anything virtuous, lovely, praiseworthy, or of good report...these are the things we should speak to and about other people.   Differences of opinion are a part of life; manage them with dignity and respect.  Charity is the antidote to contention.    The Lord will magnify your efforts and the Lord invites ALL to come until Him!  

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

DALLIN H. OAKS
FIND TRUTH AND GET TO KNOW CHRIST IN THE SCRIPTURES
 Christ will lighten our loads.   Quoted lots and lots of scriptures about Christ, peace, love, etc.  

M. RUSSELL BALLARD
THINGS THAT MATTER MOST
 We need a relationship with Christ and this is of utmost importance.   Family relationships are also among those things that matter most (friends, family, and ward families are included in this).  We should use the spirit as we nurture these important relationships. Don't be afraid to testify of truth.  Testify to those we love. 

RONALD A. RASBAND
HERALD THE COMING OF CHRIST WITH THE PALMS OF DISCIPLESHIP
 The story of Ghanaians celebrating Palm Sunday in a beautiful way.   1. Prophecy--old testament prophets foretold Christ's coming 2.  the companionship of the Holy Ghost--we need the Holy Ghost to recognize truths, 3. Discipleship is unfailing commitment and love of God 4.  the atonement of Jesus Christ.  Fill your buckets with oil, by seeking the living water of Christ.

VERN P. STANFILL
PERFECTIONISM IS NOT THE SAME AS BEING "PERFECT IN CHRIST"
 Don't obsess with perfection.  Perfectionism is not the same as being "perfect in Christ".   Our best is good enough with the grace of our Savior. Story of harvest on the farm and the machine that left seeds behind.   Then the birds came and ate the rest. Used as analogy about God knowing the overarching plan.  Our clumsy efforts can lead to miracles.   Comparison to others is not emulation and can be destructive.  It is only through Christ that we can be made perfect.  

W. MARK BASSETT
DO ALL THAT WE CAN DO AND CHRIST WILL DO WHAT ONLY HE CAN DO
 That which the disciples could do themselves (rolling away the stone, removing the grave clothes, etc) and then Christ did what only he could do (raising Lazarus from the dead).  WE need to do all we can do.  The Lord loves effort.   When we embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, the blessings comes....sometimes later than we expect, but they will come. 

AHMAD S . CORBITT
JESUS CHRIST IS OUR SAVIOR
 Jesus Christ is our Savior and is an integral part of the eternal plan of happiness. We come unto Christ by following the Doctrine of Christ. The Doctrine of Christ is powerful and can heal nations. Do not speak ill of church leaders to our children, but teach them instead to turn to Christ.  

DAVID A. BEDNAR
ABIDE IN THE SAVIOR'S LOVE AND HE WILL ABIDE IN US
 in Enoch, it says "Go forth and do as I have commanded thee and no man shall pierce thee".= Do our best in our callings and don't worry about what other people think.     Come unto Christ with conviction and endurance and stay!  Truly feast upon the words of Christ to abide in his love. Try to make Christ the center of our lives.  Are the words of the Savior written in our hearts?   Plant the seed of faith in our hearts and allow the tree of faith to grow.  Power, guidance, protection, and peace are promised when we come unto Christ and walk with him.  Believe that the promises of Christ are for you individually.

RUSSELL M. NELSON
JESUS IS THE REASON WE BUILD TEMPLES
 Study the last week of Christ's life leading up to Easter, as well as His visit to the Americas in the Book of Mormon.  It is through Jesus Christ, we can be forgiven.  Jesus is the reason we build temples.   New temples will be built:  1. Guatemala, 2. Peru, 3 & 4. Brazil x2,  5 & 6. Philippines x2, 7. Indonesia, 8. Hamburg, Germany, 9. Lethbridge, AB, Canada 10. San Jose, CA  11. Bakersfield, CA  12. Springfield, MO 13. Charlotte, NC 14. Winchester, VA, 15. Harrisburg, PA 

SUPER SHORT Talk Summaries of General Conference Saturday Sessions: April 2023

A few years ago, I challenged myself to take notes at General Conference in a way that I could summarize each talk into one sentence or phrase.  It was a challenge that helped me to focus in what the overall message was instead of getting bogged down in writing everything down.   I haven't done it that way for a while, but today I decided to try it that way again! 

So...here you go!    Here are my super short summaries of each of the talks given at General Conference today (Saturday).   Please ignore the grammar and all the run-in sentences and enjoy the messages shared!   I'll add links to each of the talks once they're published.  

CLICK HERE FOR MY SUMMARIES OF THE SUNDAY SESSIONS. 

SATURDAY MORNING:

GARY STEVENSON

  WE NEED MORE CHRIST AND THE BOOK OF MORMON IN OUR EASTER CELEBRATIONS.
 Make sure we are studying the Book of Mormon always, but it’s also one of the best Easter stories ever. 3 Nephi 11:1-17

BONNIE CORDON
NEVER GIVE UP AN OPPORTUNITY TO TESTIFY OF CHRIST
 Look for Christ everywhere. He didn’t invite his followers to follow from a distance; he invited them to gather around and to touch his wounds.  Never give up an opportunity to testify of Christ, We can feel his power every day through the power of the Holy Ghost

CARL COOK
   SOMETIMES WE FEEL LIKE RUNNING AWAY; RELY ON THE SPIRIT AND JUST KEEP GOING WITH FAITH
 Talked of the stake conference with Elder Packer and having to give 7 talks. Rely on the Spirit--in how you minister and how you live your life.  Christ will help us over the rocky parts of life, 

GERRIT GONG 
 FAITHFUL CONSISTENCY IN MINISTERING BRINGS MIRACLES:
 minister to the ministers, faithful consistency brings miracles, we need to be building relationships, be like the lord of the vineyard in the parable and ask “What more can we do?” Ministering blesses generations, Christ is ministering personified and we should build relationships ONE BY ONE,

QUENTIN L. COOK
LET’S JOIN IN THE WORK OF THE GATHERING OF ISRAEL 
 eternal blessings are for all, The gathering of Israel is the greatest challenge and mission on the earth, , the gathering of Israel is happening now, The Book of Mormon is a tool for gathering Israel, members of the church are to love, share, invite, and help to bring the gospel and gather Israel, 62,544 missionaries currently serving, SAFELY GATHERED HOME

ALLEN D. HAYNIE
   WE ARE NEVER SPIRITUALLY AT RISK WHEN WE FOLLOW THE PROPHET
we are never spiritually at risk when following prophetic counsel, it is no small thing to have a prophet of God in our midst, do not use the words of past prophets to dismiss the words of living prophets, when we ignore the teaching of the prophets; we are denying the blessings that would come otherwise,

HENRY B. EYRING
   THE MIRACLE OF FINDING PERSONAL PEACE
If you love me, keep my commandments, don’t be troubled or afraid, 5 truths about John 14:27: 1. the gift of peace is given AFTER we have faith 2. The holy ghost will come and abide with us 3. As we keep our covenants, we can better for the love of God for us and each other 4. Keeping the lord’s commandments requires more than obedience; we also need to love. 5. The lord loves us enough to pay the price of our sins. the adversary wants to keep us from peace (seeks to sow hatred and contention), the Lord loves us and always has


SATURDAY AFTERNOON:

DALLIN H. OAKS

  SUSTAINING OF OUR LEADERS.
New YW General Presidency called:  Emily Belle Freeman, Tamara W. Runia, Andrea Munoz Spannaus
New YM General Counselors:  Bradley Wilcox, Michael T. Nelson

JARED B. LARSEN

  REPORT OF CHURCH AUDIT
 

DALE G. RENLUND

THE COVENANT PATH LEADS US TO BACK TO CHRIST
 We have to learn to go against the natural man (like the Tidal Bore that goes against the Amazon). Through the covenant path, we intentionally and incrementally take upon ourselves the name of Christ.  The covenant path leads us to the ordinances of the temple, we should seek to learn, repent, find hope, comfort, and joy in amidst life's challenges.  

PETER F. MEURS

  JESUS OFFERS COMPASSION, HEALING, REDEMPTION, AND MERCY.
 Jesus sees us through the lens of his atonement and loves us unconditionally, Jesus is filled with compassion for each of us, shared the story of how he fell asleep while driving and caused a horrible accident, has had to learn how find forgiveness, repentance, and replacing guilt with peace.

RANDALL K. BENNETT

     STUDY AND TREASURE YOUR PATRIARCHAL BLESSINGS
 Patriarchal blessings help us to focus and to experience joy,  they can bring us strength and help us to do better and be better, if you have not received yours yet, you should seek to receive one.   Study and treasure your patriarchal blessings. they can bring us comfort, peace, hope, joy, guidance, and increase faith

CRAIG C. CHRISTENSEN

     JOY IS FOUND BY THOSE WHO COME UNTO JESUS AND HIS ATONEMENT
 Joy can be found in repentance, joy > passing feelings of contentment, the gospel is a message of hope, joy is bought by the blood of Jesus Christ, repentance requires change and discomfort, being filled with the Holy Ghost=joy, helping others repent and find joy will bring us much joy as well, God's great plan of happiness is for us to find eternal joy, Christ is the way, the truth, and the light

    EVAN A. SCHMUTZ

     TRUST THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST MORE THAN THE PHILOSOPHIES OF MEN
Doctrine of Christ is much more profound than the summary of its 5 key parts, we must root it in the marrow of our bones and invite the Holy Ghost to engrave it in our hearts, make prayer a priority in your lives, set aside the shiny things of the world to focus on the Doctrine and Christ, only in Christ we find truth and lasting fulfillment.  

BENJAMIN DE HOYOS

     UNITING FAMILIES {PAST AND PRESENT} IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE GOSPEL
 since the appearance of Elijah in the Kirtland, the hearts of the children have been turning to their fathers and we have been a temple building people.  Temples are a sign of the true church.  learn from our ancestors,  family history consultants are there to help, family history is MORE than looking for names, date, and places...it's uniting families!   The temple is central to our faith. 

DIETER F. UCHTDORF

         CONSISTENCY, PERSONAL REVELATION, AND RELIANCE ON CHRIST ARE THE KEYS TO EFFECTIVE PARENTING
 We often learn as much about faith, hope, and charity from our children as they learn from us.  The Lord loves parents, he stands beside us as we seek to teach and lead our children in righteousness.   Jesus Christ is the strength of parents.  A parents' love for their children is one of the strongest forces on earth and is the closest thing to God's love.  Parents can provide a steady, daily ongoing influence for good in their children's lives.  Consistency is the key!  You are laying the foundation of a great work.  God will help you see your children as he sees them.  We all worry about not being good enough.  With God, he will make weak things become strong.  He will help us to be better!   Like flowers bloom in their own time, so do children.  All we can do is to enrichen their soil, water well, and help them to find the sunshine!   Jesus Christ is the strength of families, youth, and parents!  

SATURDAY EVENING

MARK A. BRAGG

    TAKE A DEEP BREATH, LOOK TO CHRIST, AND DEVELOP SPIRITUAL POISE 
 Focus on what matters most in difficult situations to find spiritual poise.  Christ is the ultimate example of divine poise...not my will, but thine be done.  Don't be discouraged if you have difficulty finding Christlike poise.  Don't compare ourselves to others.   We are children of God, children of the covenant, and disciples of Christ.  We are divine spiritual beings having a mortal experience.  Poise comes when we see things from an eternal perspective and understanding our divinity. It is through Christ and his atonement that all good things come into our lives.  

MILTON DA ROCHA CAMARGO

    MAKE OUR HOMES A SANCTUARY OF FAITH AND GOSPEL LEARNING
 Jesus Christ has the solutions to our weaknesses and issues.  We often lose sight of Christ.  Covenants help us to focus on what's important.  Covenant keeping invites us to seek after what brings the spirit.  We have the opportunity to refocus each week when we take the sacrament. Promises from Pres. Nelson from making our homes a sanctuary of faith and  learning the gospel:    1. your sabbath will truly be a delight  2.  your children will be excited to learn the Savior's teachings  3.  influence of the adversary in your home/life will decrease  4.  changes in your family will be dramatic and sustaining   

K. BRETT NATTRESS

    CHRIST IS ALWAYS THERE TO LOVE AND WELCOME US--NO MATTER WHAT
 Shared story about young man suffering from addiction.  Shared Alma 36 with him.  Begin your journey of finding forgiveness by turning to Christ.  Look forward with faith. His promises are eternal.  There is always hope. there is always healing.  There is always a way back.   

JUAN UCEDA

    CHRIST IS A LOVING SHEPHERD
 Christ is referred to as a shepherd in all books of scriptures.   No matter how many people you have the opportunity the shepherd, minister one by one.  With our Savior's help we can love and minister as the Savior would.  

General Conference Packet for April 2020

Hello!   Here's a General Conference packet I created for older kids.   I had fun creating it and hope that your kids enjoy using it. 

I thought it would be easier to get blogging done during quarantine, but the lack of routine is doing a number on all of us!   Hope all of you out there are healthy and finding the blessings in the whole world being on pause. 

Enjoy Conference!

Super Short General Conference Summaries (October 2016)

It's become a bit of a tradition now, that I write up these super short summaries of the General Conference talks for each session.  It gives me a purpose to my note-taking and provides a good exercise for me to really try to understand the main message of each talk, in addition to being a helpful summary for looking back.    The titles  listed are my own, however when the written versions of the talks are released I will add in the actual titles and links.  Hope these are helpful to someone else besides me.   Enjoy the rest of Conference weekend and check back to this post tomorrow for the remaining sessions to be added.     

Saturday Morning

Dieter F. Uchtdorf
THE BEAUTY OF THE PLAN OF HAPPINESS WILL CHANGE LIVES
We have been surrounded by so much light and truth.   Think of the joy at understanding that you are truly a child of God and that Christ's atonement is for you individually.    We should be enthusiastic about the gospel.  Don't be distracted by the imperfections of our fellow members; look to the perfection of our Master, Jesus Christ.  We are eternal beings, without beginning or end.   What shall we give, for the flood of light and truth that the Father has poured out to us?   Let us share, in word and deed, the beautiful plan of happiness with others.

Robert D. Hales
COME, FOLLOW ME
Following the Savior does not relieve us from trial and tribulations, but we will suffer less spiritually and be strengthened with peace in our trials when we rely on the Savior.  Bring love to your family and listen to the spirit as you teach your children.   By loving and serving others, we are God's disciples.   We must support others on their journeys.

Carol F. McConkie
BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD 
We need to sincerely pray to open the way to blessings from God.   Salvation comes through Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray.  We pray to the Father, with the power of the Holy Ghost, in Christ's name; meaning that our prayers involve all three members of the Godhead.  Through the Holy Ghost we can align our wills with God's.

Craig C. Christensen
JOSEPH SMITH WAS A TRUE PROPHET OF GOD
When you lack wisdom, exercise simple faith and listen to the Holy Ghost.   There is much false, misleading, and out-of-context information about Joseph Smith.  Don't trust erroneous sources.  Look at his fruits.   Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God.

Juan Uceda 
ARE YOU REALLY PRAYING?  OR JUST SAYING PRAYERS?
Story when he was a missionary visiting Machu Picchu and did not hearken to the voice of the spirit. When we pray, are we sincerely praying and feeling a connection with heaven?   Or just saying prayers to say them?   He wants to shower us with His love and mercy.

J. Devn Cornish
GOD LOVES US AND WANTS US TO SUCCEED
Am I good enough for the Lord?  Don't be discouraged, try to improve.   Don't compare ourselves to others, only to where we have been in the past.   God wants us to succeed; it is His work and His glory.   Premeditated sin is a solemn mockery and sin always has consequences.

Neil Andersen
SHARE OUR LOVE OF THE SAVIOR WITH OTHERS
We need to work together--missionaries and members--to put the pieces of the puzzle together.   When we share our love of the Savior with others, we always get an A+.   A car battery is not sufficient to power a car, it also needs fuel.
battery=guilt, fuel=standing as a witness at all times and places



Saturday Afternoon 

Quentin L. Cook
BEWARE STUMBLING BLOCKS AND THE PHILOSOPHIES OF MEN
We are in a great sifting time.  Beware the philosophies of men being valued over God's ways.  Acknowledge that sin is sin and repent.   Beware of gospel extremism and looking beyond the mark of what's important.   Stumbling blocks can become stepping stones when we stay focused on the Savior.  

Gary Stevenson
MAKE THE BOOK OF MORMON THE KEYSTONE OF YOUR TESTIMONY
You are never too young to seek and receive a testimony of the Book of Mormon.   Book of Mormon is written for us in this day/time.   Young people spend an average of 7+ hours looking at screens each day.  We can replace part of that time with reading the Book of Mormon.  Make the Book of Mormon the keystone of your testimony.


D. Todd Christofferson
ABIDE IN GOD'S LOVE
God's love is there for you, whether you feel worthy of it or not.   Don't confuse the term "unconditional love" with love without expectations.    God does bless all, but he saves he greater blessings for those who are obedient.  Divine love can transform a willing soul.

W. Mark Bassett
TREASURE THE PLAIN AND PRECIOUS TRUTHS
Don't focus on the unknowns and seeking out the "mysteries", cling to the plain and precious truths.   We need to choose faith over having a perfect understanding.   God reveals his truths in His own time and  by the power of the Holy Ghost.

Kuzuhiko Yamashita
BE AMBITIOUS FOR CHRIST
Put your faith/trust in God and you will be supported in your trials.   Serve faithfully, accept humbly, endure nobly, pray fervently, partake worthily.   Missionaries and members can be ambitious for Christ!

Dallin H. Oaks
SHARE THE GOSPEL WITH ALL THE WORLD
We have so many resources in this day and time--let's use them wisely to share the gospel.  Sharing the gospel is our lifelong Christian duty.    1.  Pray for the desire to share the gospel 2.  Keep the commandments and live the gospel  3.  Pray for specific inspiration about what we can do, then be prepared to act on that inspiration.

With my daughter on a mission now, the MTC choir singing in the second session completely  melted my heart.   They sang, "Called to Serve," "I'll Go Where You Want Me to Go," and "Hope of Israel".    I was especially touched by them singing, "Hope of Israel."  Something about them singing about being "Zion's army" really touched me and made me think all the more of my daughter and the work she and her fellow missionaries doing there in France and all around the world.   

Hope of Israel, Zion’s army,

Children of the promised day,

See, the Chieftain signals onward,

And the battle’s in array!

(Chorus)

Hope of Israel, rise in might

With the sword of truth and right;

Sound the war-cry, “Watch and pray!”

Vanquish ev’ry foe today.

2. See the foe in countless numbers,

Marshaled in the ranks of sin.

Hope of Israel, on to battle;

Now the vict’ry we must win!

3. Strike for Zion, down with error;

Flash the sword above the foe!

Ev’ry stroke disarms a foeman;

Ev’ry step we conq’ring go.

4. Soon the battle will be over;

Ev’ry foe of truth be down.

Onward, onward, youth of Zion;

Thy reward the victor’s crown.

Super Short General Conference Summaries (April 2016)

Last conference I challenged myself to take notes and summarize each talk in general conference.  It gave me a new purpose in my note taking and proved to be a meaningful exercise.   Here are this year's Super Short General Conference Summaries.    

Links and  titles to the actual talk have now been added.   

Saturday morning

Henry B. Eyring:  Where Two or Three Are Gathered 

HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM GENERAL CONFERENCE

Pay attention to the Holy Ghost, pray for the speakers and the choir.   Pay special attention to the testimonies borne.  

Mary R. Durham:  A Child's Guiding Gift

IMMERSE OURSELVES IN THE WAYS OF THE SPIRIT

1. point out times that children are feeling the spirit  

2. prepare our homes to be a place where we can immerse ourselves in the Holy Ghost

3.  help our children understand how the spirit communicates with them

Donald L. Hailstorm: I am a Child of God

I AM A CHILD OF GOD

Do we truly understand in our hearts, minds, and souls that we are children of God?   We should remember our divine heritage in our daily lives, in the midst of trials, and in the way we treat others. 

Gary E. Stevenson: Where are the Keys and Authorities of the Priesthood? 

PRIESTHOOD KEYS = BLESSINGS

Just a like car keys  unlock the doors and ignition to unleash the full potential of the car, the keys of the priesthood  unlock the way to access the atonement and reach eternal life.   

Kevin R. Duncan: The Healing Ointment of Forgiveness

CHRIST WILL HELP US FORGIVE

Atonement is not just for those who seek repentance, but also for those who seek forgiveness.   We must try to see others as God sees us---without regard to the "color of our jerseys" or to our political affiliation--but with eternal potential.  Not forgiving others is allowing yourself to be a victim twice    

Steven E. Snow: Be Thou Humble

BE THOU HUMBLE

Ether 12:27:  Humble yourself before God and he will help you overcome weakness

Be constant, worshipful, and prayerful.   Humility is essential for increasing peace and contentment in our lives.  

Dale G. Renlund:  "That I Might Draw All Men Unto Me" 

COME UNTO GOD AND AVOID SPIRITUAL ENTITLEMENT

The greater the distance between the giver and the receiver, the greater the sense of entitlement that develops in the receiver.   Heavenly Father and Christ are the ultimate givers and when we distance ourselves from God, we can develop a sense of spiritual entitlement (wanting things YOUR way with YOUR timing).   It's better to be a repentant sinner than to be proud and think that you don't need God.   Life on earth is not fair and we should not expect it to be so, but in the eternities every wrong will be made right.  

Saturday Afternoon

Ronald A. Rasband: Standing With the Leaders of the Church

SUPPORT EACH OTHER IN FAITH

We can't afford to be casual in our faith.  Let's support each other in our faith.  Reach out and take the Savior's hand, which is always extended out to us.  

Neil L. Andersen:  "Whoso Receiveth Them, Receiveth Me"

REACH OUT TO THOSE OUTSIDE THE FENCE

Families are very varied and we need to be sensitive and loving to those who are different.  Embrace those who may feel that they are "outside the fence". 

Mervyn B. Arnold:  To the Rescue:  We Can Do It

WE ARE CALLED TO RESCUE OTHERS

1. Do not delay going to the rescue--it's easy to get too caught up in doing it "right" that we can miss the window of opportunity to rescue

2.  We must never give up.   No one is beyond reach. 

3.  Great is the worth of every soul. 

4. We are all called to go to the rescue.  

Jairo Mazzagardi: The Sacred Place of Restoration

JOSEPH SMITH WAS A TRUE PROPHET

Do not give up.   When you seek for truth, God will provide (James 1:5).   Joseph Smith was a true prophet.  

David A. Bednar: Always Retain a Remission of Your Sins

ORDINANCES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR OUR ETERNAL SALVATION

Always retain a remission of our sins.   Ordinances are sacred acts with eternal consequences.  

M. Russell Ballard:  Family Councils

COUNSEL WITH THE LORD:   HAVE FAMILY COUNCILS

Family councils are eternal and will counteract the effects of modern technology.  Make the walls of our home to be a safe haven from the world.  Counsel with the Lord in all our doings (Alma 37:37).

SUNDAY MORNING

Thomas S. Monson: Choices

CHOICES WE MAKE DETERMINE OUR DESTINY

Repentance allows us to correct our course settings.  The doors of history turns on small hinges. And so do people's lives. The choices people make determine our destiny.   May we ever choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong.

Bonnie L. Oscarson: Do I Believe?

TRUE CONVERSION IS MOVING THE GOSPEL FROM OUR MINDS TO OUR HEARTS

The church is the same as when Christ was upon the earth.  True conversion comes over time with the deliberate consistent exercising of faith.  Choose faith over doubt and don't be swayed by the voices of mockery coming from the great and spacious building. 

W. Christopher Waddell: A Pattern for Peace

GREAT  IS THE PEACE THE GOSPEL BRINGS

We may not understand everything, but through our deliberate exercising of faith we can find peace.   

LEARN + LISTEN + WALK = PEACE

Many good church members have partaken of the fruit of the tree of life and are still influenced by those in the great and spacious building. 

D. Todd Christofferson: Fathers

FATHERS SHOULD LEAD WITH LOVE AND THE HOLY GHOST

Fatherhood requires sacrifice, but brings great satisfaction and joy as they turn the hearts of their children to Heavenly Father.   Fathers should lead out in making teaching the gospel a high priority in our homes.   

Quentin L. Cook: See Yourself in the Temple

SEE YOURSELF IN THE TEMPLE

Happiness, fulfillment, and peace come to those who live the gospel.  There is no more important goal than for us to strive to be worthy to go to the temple.   

Dieter F. Uchtdorf: He Will Place You on His Shoulders and Carry You Home

OBEDIENCE IS THE LIFEBLOOD OF FAITH

Just as ruined cities can be rebuilt to an even greater grandeur, our ruined, abandoned lives can be rebuilt through Jesus Christ.  Lift up your heart to the Savior and He will rescue you and carry you home.  If our faith/beliefs do not change/affect the way we live our lives, it does us no good.  

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Robert D. Hales: The Holy Ghost

THE HOLY GHOST WILL TESTIFY OF TRUTH

The Holy Ghost will help us discern between truth and those who seek to lead us astray.   Pay attention to the promptings of the spirit and ACT ON THEM!

Gerrit W. Gong: Always Remember Him 

ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM

1. Have confidence in his promises and covenants.  2. gratefully acknowledge the Lord's hand in our lives.   3. trust when the Lords assures us that our sins are forgiven  4. remember that he always welcomes us home 5. remember him when we take the sacrament  6. remember that he always remembers us! 

Patrick Kearon: Refuge from the Storm

REFUGEES NEED OUR HELP

Mormons were refugees too.  Jesus Christ was a refugee.   We need to do our part.   

We need to increase our awareness of world events and stay in tune to what we can do.  

iwasastranger.lds.org   

Dallin H. Oaks:  Opposition in All Things

OPPOSITION IS A CENTRAL PART OF FATHER'S PLAN

Opposition comes in many forms and is a central and necessary part of the plan of salvation.   Satan wanted perfect equality, without tests, or faith, or growth, or choice, but "all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good." (D&C 122:7)

Kent F. Richards: The Power of Godliness

BLESSINGS OF THE TEMPLE ARE PRICELESS

Real power of the temple found in its ordinances.   Find a way to serve in the temple, whether as a patron or a worker.  Young people can be temple workers too.  

Paul V. Johnson: And There Shall Be No More Death

FINDING HOPE IN THE RESURRECTION

Through the resurrection we can find hope and a fullness of joy.   There is no salvation without the resurrection.  We are made whole through the power of the resurrection. 

Jeffrey R. Holland: Tomorrow the Lord Will Do Wonders Among You

GOD LOVES US AND WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US

Keep loving, trying, trusting, believing, and growing.   Divine love and unfailing help will be with us always; but especially when we struggle.   God's love is the foundation stone of eternal life.   God will never desert us!  

Click here for my October 2015 Conference summaries.  

Super Short General Conference Summaries

I published these General Conference summaries on my family blog, but then thought it might be something you'd all be interested in here too!  I challenged myself to not only take notes on all the talks, but to make a title or headline for each one too.  My titles are in all-caps and I was pleasantly surprised to see that a couple of my titles match up exactly with the actual title and another couple are close!          


Saturday Morning:

Dieter F. Uchtdorf: It Works Wonderfully!

SIMPLICITY IN CHRIST

Exaltation is our goal, discipleship is our journey!  

Don't make your discipleship too complicated.  

Start where you are and move forward.  

M. Russell Ballard: God Is at the Helm

STAY ON OLD SHIP ZION

Old Ship Zion's destination is exaltation!

Jesus Christ is at the helm of the Old Ship Zion.

We need to stay on the ship to stay safe in the waves of the world.

Richard J. Maynes:  The Joy of Living a Christ-Centered Life

CENTER OUR LIVES ON CHRIST

Like a potter needs to keep the clay exactly centered on the potter's wheel, 

we need to keep our lives centered on Christ.  

Neill Marriott:  Yielding Our Hearts to God

IT WILL ALL WORK OUT

  When we keep an eternal perspective and trust in God, 

it will all work out.  

It doesn't mean that it will be easy or the way we want it, 

but God is in the details and it will work out.  

Larry Lawrence:  What Lack I Yet?

LISTEN TO THE HOLY GHOST

He will give us personal guidance, meant just for us.  

Be persistent in seeking guidance and always seek for spiritual improvement. 

Our direction is more important than our speed.  

Francisco Vinas: The Pleasing Word of God

PEACE BE UNTO THY SOUL

The word of God fills us with hope.  

Do not delay the day of our repentance.  

Repentance is a process that requires consistency, but will ultimately bring us peace. 

Quentin L. Cook:  Shipshape and Bristol Fashion: Be Temple Worthy—in Good Times and Bad Times

"SHIP SHAPE AND BRISTOL FASHION"

BE RIGHTEOUS, FOLOW RULES, AND BE PREPARED

Self control is like a muscle--the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. 

Happiness in this life and the life to come is connected by the thread of righteousness. 

Life will hit hard times (like in the Bristol Channel) and we may feel washed up and knocked on our sides, but when we are spiritually prepared we will be buoyed up.  

Saturday afternoon:   

Three new apostles called: 

Ronald Rasband

Gary Stevenson

Dale Renlund

Robert D. Hales: Meeting the Challenges of Today’s World

YOU ARE THE  PILOT OF YOUR LIFE:  NEVER INTENTIONALLY FLY INTO A STORM

If you want the Lord's counsel, be prepared to take it.  

You don't marry for perfection; you marry potential. 

You are rich when you can happily live within your means.   

Jeffrey R. Holland: Behold Thy Mother

MATERNAL LOVE IS DIVINE

"No love in mortality comes closer to approximating the pure love of Jesus Christ than the selfless love a devoted mother has  for her child."

Bear, borne, carry, deliver...these similar words are used to describe what the Savior  does for us as well as a mother.   

Bradley D. Foster:  It’s Never Too Early and It’s Never Too Late

HELP CHILDREN UNDERSTAND

We must engage in intentional parenting.  

Children are the largest group of investigators in the church and they should be taught well. 

There's a difference between just hearing the gospel and truly understanding the gospel.  

Hugo Montoya:  Tested and Tempted—but Helped

LET'S HELP EACH OTHER

Go the second mile, Smile.

Express feelings of compassion to others. 

Meditate on the atonement of Jesus Christ. 

Vern Stanfill:  Choose the Light

GO TOWARD THE LIGHT (OF THE GOSPEL)

Don't be embarrassed to ask for help or look to other's light when you are in darkness.

Trust in the Lord.   

Do not look to those who have no light to give. 

James Martino:  Turn to Him and Answers Will Come

ANSWERS WILL COME

keep seeking for answers; they will come. 

Dallin H. Oaks:  Strengthened by the Atonement of Jesus Christ

CHRIST WILL SUCCOR US

He knows our struggles, heartaches, and temptations and will succor us. 

"I can do all things in Christ that strengtheneth me"

Savior can help us overcome any kind of mortal pain--those which come through no fault of our own and those caused by our own choices.  

God is mindful of ALL people.  

Sunday Morning:  

Thomas S. Monson (a living prophet on the earth today): Be an Example and a Light

BE AN EXAMPLE OF THE BELIEVERS

Watch the words we use and extend charity to others.

Exercise our faith by reading and pondering the scriptures. 

Gratitude, forgiveness, and goodwill will help our lights to shine. 

Ronald A. Rasband:  I Stand All Amazed

I STAND ALL AMAZED (I got one exactly right!) 

God's love is real and is for all of us--no matter where you are in your life.  

Reach out in love to others.  

Gary Stevenson:  Plain and Precious Truths

ANCHOR IN CHRIST

Anchor our faith in Jesus Christ. 

Focus on what you CAN do, rather than what you can't do.  

Dale G. Renlund:  Through God’s Eyes

LOOK AT OTHERS THROUGH HEAVEN'S EYES

 You are called not for what you've done, but for what the Lord needs you to accomplish. 

Remember that everyone is a beloved son or daughter of Jesus Christ. 

Russell M. Nelson:  A Plea to My Sisters

GREAT IS THE STRENGTH OF COVENANT KEEPING WOMEN

The virtue, light, love, character, faith, and virtue of righteous women of today are a fulfillment of prophecy and making a huge difference in the world.  

Women are full partners with men in families, communities, and in church councils.  

Gregory A. Schwitzer:  Let the Clarion Trumpet Sound

DON'T BE AFRAID TO TESTIFY OF CHRIST

True disciples represent the Lord even when it is not convenient. 

Have courage and be bold when testifying of truth. 

Voices try to drown out the simple message of the Gospel that God loves us.

Claudio R.M. Costa:  That They Do Always Remember Him

TEACH OUR CHILDREN OF CHRIST

Tell the stories of Christ's life to our children.   

"I have no greater joy to hear that my children walk in truth."

Teach them the truth.   

Henry B. Eyring:  The Holy Ghost as Your Companion

THE HOLY GHOST TESTIFIES OF TRUTH:  

WE SHOULD SEEK ITS CONSTANT COMPANIONSHIP

The more we obey the spirit, the more impressions we will receive, and the more we will be blessed. 

Through the Holy Ghost we can see people as Heavenly Father sees them. 

Truths are verified by the Holy Ghost. 

Sunday Afternoon:   

D. Todd Christofferson:  Why the Church

THE CHURCH IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF CHRIST'S WORK ON EARTH

The church is a necessary part of Christ's work on earth, and without it great things could not be accomplished.  

More important than knowing doctrine is learning how to apply it.   

Devin Durrant:  My Heart Pondereth Them Continually

"PONDERIZE" THE SCRIPTURES

Ponderize = 80% pondering + 20% memorizing

Like saving a little money each week for a rainy day, ponderizing the scriptures weekly helps us to elevate our thoughts and bring us closer to Christ. 

Discipline yourself, exercise your faith, and do it! 

Von G. Keetch:  Blessed and Happy Are Those Who Keep the Commandments of God

SEEK TO DO GOD'S WILL

Like a barrier in the bay to protect surfers from sharks, the commandments are safety and protection to us from spiritual dangers.   

God wants us to have joy, peace, success, and safety, which is why we have commandments.  

Carole M. Stephens:  “If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments”

IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS (I got another one exactly right!)

Commandments = Love

We show love by keeping commandments. 

He gives us commandments, because he loves us. 

Allen Haynie:  Remembering in Whom We Have Trusted

THROUGH CHRIST WE CAN BE CLEAN

Through Christ we can be forgiven of our sins and be made clean again.  

Savior's atonement leaves no traces or tracks...it just heals.  

God will never reject us.  

Kim B. Clark:  Eyes to See and Ears to Hear

SEEK FOR EYES TO SEE AND EARS TO HEAR THE WILL OF THE LORD

Stand for truth with courage and seek for eyes to see and ears to hear the will of the Lord. 

Strive to live plain and simple truths of the gospel.   

We still live in a time of miracles.  

Koichi Aoyagi:  Hold on Thy Way

KEEP FAITH IN ADVERSITY

Purpose of life is not to merely to overcome trials, but to learn to rely on the Lord and to increase your faith.  

All things are for your experience and good.  

David Bednar:  “Chosen to Bear Testimony of My Name”

OLD MEN ROCK!

There is great wisdom in having older, experienced men lead the church of God. 

Their physical limitations are actually an asset to them, in that it helps them to focus their efforts on what is most important.   

They are not spared affliction, but are blessed and strengthened (and increase in understanding) as they face the afflictions with faith.  

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