The Saturday morning session of the 196th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints opened with a global welcome as President D. Todd Christofferson, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, conducted the meeting and greeted members and friends participating around the world during the Easter weekend.
President Christofferson expressed a prayer that those joining would be uplifted through this “unique opportunity to sustain the leaders of the Church,” noting that President Dallin H. Oaks, who presided at the conference, had asked him to conduct the session. He acknowledged the General Authorities and general officers in attendance and highlighted the participation of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, including members from countries across the world who had gathered to sing during the conference.
Solemn Assembly
President Dallin H. Oaks offered a brief welcome before the solemn assembly, addressing members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints around the world and others observing the conference. He explained that this session was unique because it would begin with a solemn assembly, a sacred occasion held when a new President of the Church is sustained.
Though President Nelson passed away shortly before October 2025 General Conference, President Oaks had not yet been called and ordained as president and prophet of the Church, making this conference his first—and giving members their first opportunity to sustain him—in that role.
Gospel Q&A: What Is a Solemn Assembly?
President Oaks expressed gratitude for the faith, prayers, and sustaining support of Church members and acknowledged the significance of participating in this moment together. He concluded by reaffirming his testimony of the resurrected Jesus Christ, declaring that He is the head of the Church, and prayed for blessings upon all who would take part in the conference.
President D. Todd Christofferson reverently conducted the solemn assembly, guiding members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints through the sacred process of sustaining Church leaders. He invited each quorum and group, both in the Conference Center and around the world, to stand in turn and express their support with an uplifted hand.
Beginning with the First Presidency and continuing through the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, general authorities, priesthood holders, Relief Society sisters, youth, and finally the entire Church membership, each group participated in a unified sustaining vote. The assembly concluded with gratitude for the faith and prayers of Church members, marking a sacred moment of unity and support across the global Church.
Patrick Kearon
Elder Patrick Kearon taught that sustaining and serving in Church callings invites personal growth, unity, and participation in the Savior’s work.
Key Quotes
- “Common consent is not merely a formality, but a beautiful mix of agency, unity, and faith.”
- “Whatever our offering in the Lord’s economy, we always come out ahead.”
- “It really isn’t where we serve, but how that matters to the Lord, and it matters for us too.”
Key Teachings
Elder Patrick Kearon reflected on his conversion in London and the warmth he felt when members raised their hands to welcome and later sustain him, describing how “those smiling faces” reassured him as he began his life of faith. He recounted receiving an unexpected calling as assistant ward clerk and admitted his initial hesitation, but chose to accept, later recognizing “purpose and power in each calling I received.”
He explained that sustaining others through common consent represents more than a routine act, teaching that it is “a voluntary, personal commitment to support, uphold, and help the Lord’s servants.” Even when members may not fully agree with those called, he taught that praying for one another builds unity and “important bridges are built” as disciples strive to serve together.
Drawing on personal experience, he described how callings stretch, refine, and sometimes challenge individuals, yet emphasized that “whatever our offering in the Lord’s economy, we always come out ahead.” He pointed to the example of the Savior’s early Apostles, who responded in faith despite uncertainty, and reminded listeners that service remains “a choice, an offering to God and a blessing.”
He connected Church service directly to discipleship, teaching that callings are “tailor-made for our growth” and help individuals develop Christlike attributes as they serve others. He emphasized that “it really isn’t where we serve, but how that matters,” highlighting the joy that comes from wholehearted devotion.
Elder Kearon concluded by linking the principle of sustaining to the solemn assembly, noting that members had just raised their hands to support President Dallin H. Oaks as prophet. He invited all to see their service as joining the Savior’s work, declaring, “We are not merely filling an assignment… but joining the Savior of the world in His infinite redeeming work,” and testified that “life is better… when we are about His business.”
Kristin M. Yee
Christlike ministering transforms lives, strengthens faith, and brings both giver and receiver closer to the Savior.
Key Quotes
- “When we minister, we are helping to answer each other’s prayers.”
- “We are not called to or released from ministering.”
- “If you want to feel grounded, get a sense of divine belonging, and make a real difference in the world, I invite you to follow the Savior and minister in His name.”
Key Teachings
Sister Kristin M. Yee shared a personal account of how two ministering brothers helped her father during a low point in his life, patiently inviting him to the temple and walking beside him for years. That steady, compassionate effort led to lasting change, as her father grew spiritually, improved his life, and developed a deep relationship with God.
She taught that ministering extends far beyond assigned visits, describing it as a way of living that reflects the Savior’s love in daily interactions. She emphasized that disciples “can choose to love and minister as the Savior would,” even when they cannot fix difficult circumstances.
Sister Yee explained that ministering is central to covenant living and spiritual growth, noting that it shapes how individuals think, feel, and love. As disciples serve others, they begin to experience peace, healing, and purpose, discovering that serving others brings them closer to Christ.
She acknowledged that ministering often requires effort and faith, especially when it feels inconvenient or uncertain, but reminded listeners that the Lord supports those who act. A light, relatable moment illustrated this principle as a young sister admitted her nerves, then simply said, “I go,” trusting that things would work out—and they did.
Sister Yee emphasized that ministering follows the Savior’s pattern of caring for individuals one by one, teaching that when people feel seen and loved by God, “it changes everything.” This individual care reflects the Savior’s Atonement, which demonstrates a deeply personal and infinite love for each soul.
She concluded by inviting all to engage more fully in ministering, promising that it brings belonging, joy, and divine help. As disciples choose to love and serve as Christ did, they not only bless others but also find healing, purpose, and transformation in their own lives.
Clark G. Gilbert
Jesus Christ, as Redeemer and Repairer, invites every individual—regardless of doubt, inadequacy, or distance—to come home through His grace.
Key Quotes
- “You don’t have to be perfect to be in this Church. You just have to do your best, and Christ will make up the difference.”
- “Only Jesus Christ can fully restore that light and joy into your life.”
- “The Savior loves all of us and is tenderly calling for you and for me to come home.”
Key Teachings
Elder Clark G. Gilbert opened by acknowledging the weight of his calling and expressing gratitude that “Christ’s grace makes up the difference,” echoing a lifelong commitment to testify of Jesus Christ. He focused his message on the Savior as both Redeemer and Repairer, emphasizing that no matter how far someone has wandered, the invitation to return remains open.
He shared a series of ministering experiences that illustrated different reasons people hesitate to return to faith, beginning with those who feel they do not belong. Through Tammy’s story, he showed how patient invitations and quiet encouragement can lead someone from sitting alone in a parking lot to eventually receiving temple blessings and rediscovering joy.
He then addressed those who feel they are not good enough, recounting a conversation with Luis Vargas, who believed he could not measure up. A simple assurance—that effort and faith are enough for Christ to work with—helped Luis move forward, eventually leading to baptism and a sealed family.
Elder Gilbert also spoke to those navigating doubt, describing how one couple returned not by resolving every question, but by anchoring themselves in what they still believed and learning to recognize the Spirit. Their gradual return demonstrated that faith often grows through action rather than certainty.
He acknowledged that traditions and personal history can also hold people back, sharing the story of a man who hesitated to join the Church out of respect for his parents, but ultimately chose to move forward in faith. Across each example, he emphasized that while the reasons differ, the Savior’s invitation remains constant and personal.
A memorable and visual moment came as he described students turning on phone flashlights in a crowded devotional to signal open seats—an image of disciples “holding up a light” to invite others in. He used this as a metaphor for how members can help others feel welcomed and find their place as they return.
He concluded by testifying that Christ actively repairs what is broken in individuals’ lives and lovingly calls each person home. Through His grace, healing, belonging, and joy become possible for all who respond to that invitation.
David A. Bednar
Enduring to the end means becoming spiritually transformed through Christ’s grace until charity shapes who we are.
Key Quotes
- “Enduring to the end is not merely a relentless determination to grit our teeth… It is so much more than that.”
- “We do not merely perform benevolent deeds. Rather, our state of being is changed and becomes increasingly Christlike.”
- “Enduring to the end is the joyous quest of a lifetime of pressing forward with faith in Jesus Christ.”
Key Teachings
Elder David A. Bednar began by comparing physical endurance in long-distance running with spiritual endurance, explaining that many people view enduring as pushing through difficulty but that “in a spiritual context, enduring is far more.” He taught that the Savior’s gospel invites transformation, not just improved behavior, as disciples align their desires and character with God.
He emphasized that becoming “new creatures in Christ” comes only through the Savior’s “merits, mercy, and grace,” not through effort alone. Spiritual gifts, especially charity, play a central role in this process, as they are given by God and enable disciples to become more like Him.
Elder Bednar taught that charity is both something we practice and something that ultimately changes who we are, explaining that it should not only be possessed by us but should “possess us.” As this transformation occurs, disciples move from simply doing good to becoming good, with their nature increasingly reflecting the Savior.
He described how the Savior consistently turned outward in love and service, even in moments of pain, contrasting this with the natural human tendency toward self-focus. As disciples follow Christ, they gradually shift their focus from their own concerns to the needs of others, and their character becomes more Christlike over time.
He concluded by teaching that enduring to the end is inseparably connected to receiving the pure love of Christ and becoming like Him. Rather than a test of endurance alone, it is a lifelong, grace-filled process of growth that leads to joy, spiritual strength, and ultimately eternal life.
Michael John U. Teh
Following the living prophet requires covenant commitment, personal change, and trust that Jesus Christ strengthens and guides His people.
Key Quotes
- “Following Christ is not a casual or occasional practice.”
- “Repenting means giving up all of our practices—personal, family, ethnic, and national—that are contrary to the commandments of God.”
- “The purpose of the gospel is to transform common creatures into celestial citizens.”
Key Teachings
Elder Michael John U. Teh began by inviting disciples to “follow the prophet,” emphasizing that following Jesus Christ requires a continuous, committed way of life rather than occasional effort. He reinforced that prophetic counsel provides a clear path to follow the Savior in every aspect of life.
He shared how his parents faced pressure as they chose to abandon cultural traditions that conflicted with gospel teachings, demonstrating that true discipleship often requires difficult change. Their experience taught that living the gospel centers on keeping covenants, even when doing so requires sacrifice and courage.
Elder Teh described ministering experiences with individuals facing serious trials, including a man with terminal illness whose faith and joy defied expectations. These encounters showed that the Savior strengthens individuals in their suffering and that those who minister often find themselves spiritually uplifted as well.
He used the image of reflected sunlight in a city of tall buildings to illustrate how disciples can reflect the Savior’s light to others. As individuals follow Christ, He uses them to bless others, allowing His love to reach people in personal and unexpected ways.
He concluded by testifying that living prophets are divinely guided and help prepare God’s children for the future. By following their teachings, disciples follow Jesus Christ and receive the strength and direction needed to endure and return to Him.
Jorge T. Becerra
Putting God first through faithful obedience—especially in tithing—helps overcome spiritual instability and invites divine power and direction into our lives.
Key Quotes
- “One way to overcome double-mindedness is to learn to put God first in our lives.”
- “I am certain that the payment of tithes and offerings will enhance our spiritual capacity as we put God first.”
- “I witness that a spiritual power and direction heretofore unknown will come into our lives as we keep the law of obedience and sacrifice.”
Key Teachings
Elder Jorge T. Becerra began by identifying “double-mindedness” as a spiritual dilemma, describing it as wavering commitment that leads to instability. He taught that disciples overcome this condition by choosing to “put God first” and aligning their lives with His commandments.
He used the example of Adam offering the “firstlings of their flock” to show that God has always required His children to prioritize Him above all else. This principle, he explained, protects disciples from divided loyalties and helps anchor them in faith and obedience.
Elder Becerra shared a personal experience of financial struggle, where he chose to sell his car in order to pay tithing, demonstrating his commitment to put God first. The unexpected outcome—receiving exactly what he needed and then being provided another car—taught him that obedience invites divine help in practical and personal ways.
He emphasized that faith to act often grows from earlier spiritual experiences, recalling his mother’s testimony that God blesses those who keep the law of tithing even in hardship. This foundation of belief helped him act with confidence when faced with sacrifice and uncertainty.
He concluded by testifying that obedience to God’s commandments brings spiritual power, guidance, and increased capacity to receive revelation. As disciples choose to put God first, they follow the Savior’s perfect example and invite light, strength, and direction into their lives.
Henry B. Eyring
God answers sincere, continual prayer with peace, even amid uncertainty, loss, and trial.
Key Quotes
- “Opening the windows of heaven through fervent prayer does not require many words or flowery language.”
- “The Lord hears and answers the prayers of our hearts.”
- “As we pray continually, no matter the circumstances of life, the Lord will offer us peace and abiding support.”
Key Teachings
President Henry B. Eyring began by recalling the Savior’s promise of peace to His Apostles and applied it to modern disciples living in a troubled world filled with uncertainty and fear. He taught that as global and personal challenges increase, many have responded by turning more earnestly to God in prayer for comfort, direction, and peace.
He emphasized that effective prayer does not depend on eloquence or length, but on sincerity and constancy, describing how disciples can “pour out [their] souls” and maintain a continual connection with God. He illustrated that even silent prayers of the heart are heard, pointing to the experience of Alma’s people, whose burdens were eased as they faithfully trusted the Lord.
President Eyring taught that spiritual strength comes from consistent prayer in all seasons of life, not just in moments of crisis, as shown in the example of the sons of Mosiah. Through continual prayer, disciples receive revelation, strength, and the companionship of the Spirit, which sustains them through both joy and hardship.
He testified that God answers prayers with real and personal peace, sharing his own experience at the funeral of his wife, where he felt unexpected peace and even joy through the assurance of a future reunion. He concluded by affirming that the Savior’s promise is sure: those who pray with faith will receive His peace, even when circumstances remain difficult.
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What a wonderful first session! Which talk stood out to you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
