The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released the following statement:
As announced last weekend, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland was excused from General Conference due to the fact he and Sister Patricia Holland are both suffering from the effects of Covid. Elder Holland also recently began dialysis for a kidney condition. Consequently, the First Presidency has excused him from all Church assignments and meetings for at least two months to allow his medical treatments and recovery to take full effect. Elder and Sister Holland note that they are very grateful for all the prayers and outpouring of support offered in their behalf at this time.
Elder Holland shared the following message online after it was announced he would not attend Conference:
Dear friends, one of the great joys that Pat and I have in life is participating in General Conference each April and October. We always love being with you and growing in our relationship with the Savior and our understanding of His gospel through all the uplifting music, instruction, and testimony.
Unfortunately, we both recently tested positive for Covid and are not able to attend this weekend. While disappointed, I must confess that I am looking forward to the fact that, for the first time in my ministry, I’ll get to sit back and enjoy conference while holding hands with my sweetheart! We will be watching together, and praying for all of you and for those who will be participating on the program.
May I also take this moment to express my gratitude for the Savior Jesus Christ this Palm Sunday weekend. As we move into Holy Week tomorrow morning, in preparation for Easter Sunday next week, I hope you will join me in recognizing and appreciating that all sins and sorrows, all disappointment and depression, all temptation and all tears may be put behind us through the divinity, atoning sacrifice, and triumphant resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
In June 2020, Elder Holland was admitted to the hospital for an undisclosed illness unrelated to COVID-19. The Hollands briefly reference the illness in a video from Church News.
Featured Image – Brooklynn Jarvis/BYU
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
