Stake Conference Talk Summaries

 Bishop Maddox spoke about teaching young men concerning the oath and covenant of the priesthood. He emphasized the importance of understanding and fulfilling the responsibilities of the priesthood, particularly for young men. His talk highlights that the priesthood is a sacred covenant with God, requiring personal revelation and the power of the Holy Ghost. Bishop Maddox's talk underscores the need for young men to recognize their unique role and the seriousness of their covenants, which include teaching, baptizing, and inviting others to Christ. He  also stressed the importance of keeping promises, the consequences of disobedience, and the divine support and promises provided by Heavenly Father.

 President Whitney explained a covenant's three elements: promises to God, God's promises, and the consequences of breaking it. Key points of his talk included the importance of worthily receiving the priesthood, being faithful, and serving others. He emphasized focusing on the blessings of keeping the covenant rather than the penalties of breaking it. President Henry B. Eyring's teachings were referenced, highlighting God's confidence in individuals and the Savior's promise of personal help. Practical steps to keep our covenants were also discussed, such as faith, repentance, and service.

 President Kelley also spoke about the oath and covenant of the priesthood. His talk revolved around the significance and responsibilities associated with the priesthood. President Kelley emphasized the importance of understanding the oath and covenant of the priesthood, highlighting that it is not a free gift but comes with responsibilities and consequences. His talk touched on the distinction between priesthood authority and power, likening authority to a tractor or other farm tool and power to the fuel that makes it work. President Kelley stressed the need for righteousness to access priesthood power, citing scriptures and teachings from church leaders like  President Nelson. President Kelly also included personal anecdotes to illustrate the practical application of priesthood power in real-life situations, emphasizing the importance of personal righteousness and the impact of priesthood on family and community.

 In his brief concluding remarks, President Hamilton reflected on the importance of each member's role, using a personal anecdote about playing T-ball in right field to illustrate that everyone has a valuable place in the church, even if it feels less significant. He emphasized that everyone is loved and needed by Heavenly Father, regardless of their perceived contribution. The message was one of encouragement and appreciation for the attendees' hard work and dedication, highlighting that even those who feel like they are playing a less crucial role are equally important in the divine plan. The closing remarks include a testimony of faith and the assurance that God's work is being done on earth through the efforts of the leaders in attendance.

 Ty discusses the significance of covenants, particularly those made in temples, emphasizing their role in drawing closer to God and receiving His blessings. Covenants, as seen in scriptures from Genesis to the Book of Mormon, are promises tied to commandments and ordinances. The endowment in the temple is highlighted as a preparatory step for entering God's presence, offering gifts like knowledge, power, and divine direction. The endowment involves five covenants: obedience, sacrifice, repentance, gospel adherence, and consecration. Keeping these covenants requires daily commitment, repentance, regular temple worship, and living with integrity. The speaker concludes that faithfulness to these covenants brings joy and blessings.

 President Arrington emphasizes the importance of covenants in connecting individuals to Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. He explains that covenants, established before the Earth's creation, allow us to unite with God and access His power. Elder Dale G. Rendon and President Nelson teach that covenants, made in baptismal fonts and temples, enhance our relationship with Christ and provide strength and protection. The garment of the holy priesthood is symbolic of Jesus Christ, reinforcing this connection. President Arrington bears witness that temple ordinances and covenants lead to the Savior's power, which transforms lives and brings spiritual blessings.

 Sister Arrington's talk revolves around the anticipation and preparation for the opening of a new temple in Syracuse. Sister Arrington shares a story about a missionary who was unprepared for his service due to a lack of physical and spiritual readiness, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually ready for temple service. The speaker encourages the congregation to spiritually prepare for the temple's opening by engaging in activities like forgiveness, daily study, and using FamilySearch. She also recounts a personal story about her brother-in-law finding peace and strength in the temple during a time of terminal illness, highlighting the temple's role in providing divine support. Sister Arrington concludes by testifying that temple attendance can increase faith in Jesus Christ and change individuals' lives.

 Sister McKeehan starts by reflecting on the historical significance of the Wright Brothers' first powered flight on December 17, 1903, and draws a parallel to spiritual laws and blessings. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and obeying God's laws, particularly those learned through the temple endowment, which include the laws of obedience, sacrifice, the gospel, chastity, and consecration. Sister McKeehan shares a personal story of finding peace and spiritual strength through temple attendance and covenant-keeping during challenging times, highlighting the tangible blessings and powers received, such as peace, courage, and divine guidance. She testifies to the real power of God's laws and the blessings that come from following them.

 President Richardson starts by recounting a pickleball tournament where the other team said he was protecting his wife. He emphasizes the importance of protecting faith, particularly through temple covenants. He quoted President Nelson and Elder Jeffrey R. Holland who highlight that temple covenants are sacred promises that shape lives and fortify spirits. President Richardson discusses the laws of obedience, sacrifice, and chastity, stressing the need for total devotion and personal growth. The overarching message is the transformative power of living gospel principles and temple covenants, which bring peace, protection, and purpose.

President Hamilton reflects on the importance of worship over mere belief, drawing parallels from the scriptures and personal experiences. He discusses the division among the people in Fourth Nephi, emphasizing the distinction between true believers and worshipers. The speaker shares a personal story about their son Griffin, who, despite severe health challenges, demonstrated faith through worship. He highlights the blessings of temple worship, quoting President Nelson on the spiritual and personal growth it brings. President Hamilton urges the audience to strengthen their spiritual foundation through temple service and worship, preparing for the trials of the last days.

Sophie spoke about the importance of baptism and how she is preparing to be baptized.

Filey talks about her baptism and the impact it has had on her life.

 Spencer discusses the significance of baptismal covenants. He emphasizes the importance of being born of God and the role of the Holy Ghost in spiritual growth. He talks about the sacrament and the importance of renewing covenants and inviting the Holy Ghost. Spencer highlights the importance of partaking of the sacrament with a spirit of reverence and gratitude.

 Anna Cluff discusses the importance of remembering baptismal covenants and the blessings received. She lists the promises made at baptism, including keeping commandments and following Jesus Christ. She talks about the role of the sacrament in renewing baptismal covenants. Anna emphasizes the importance of keeping covenants to follow Jesus throughout life.

Those of the Trailside or Shoreline wards are probably thinking right now, will he tie his

talk into the gospel with bikes or running. Those that went with running- You are

correct!!

In 7 weeks and a day I will be running in a marathon that took me over two years to get

into too.

First, I had to Qualify. I had to plan and prepare for a marathon or two that would

allow me to make the qualifying standard (Check), and then I had to be accepted based

on how much faster I was as compared to the given age standard.(check). Then, Once

accepted, I had to recommit to running for another year.

AND No- I have never experienced a runner high, and no I don’t run for the fun of

it. I run to see what is possible, what can “I” achieve as a runner, and Can I find joy in

my running Journey?

Spiritually- am I finding joy in my Journey? Absolutely!!! More so than running.

And you can as well, as you make and keep sacred Covenants that Bind you to HIM!!

These Covenants are not simply a checklist. Like my weekly running schedule, I

don’t complete the runs just to check them off, but to see where I am physically. Am I

getting stronger, faster, fitter? Week by week, month by month. The gains are small, but

they are there.

Likewise, as Elder Pearson stated in the 2023 Conference address, Quote “ The

covenant path is not a simple checklist. It is a process of spiritual growth and deepening

commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. The central purpose of every commandment,

principle, COVENANT, and Ordinance is to build faith and trust in Christ. Our

determination to center our lives on CHRIST, therefore, must be consistent- not

conditional, situational, or superficial. WE cannot afford to take vacation days of

personal time off from our willingness to “stand as a witness of God at all times...,

Discipleship is not cheap, because the companionship of the Holy Ghost is priceless”

Brother and Sisters, I just got released from one of the best calling in the church.

Primary Teacher CTR 7 and then Valiant 8. Why was it such a great calling you might be

thinking to yourself, because I got to see first hand these amazing Children of God

preparing themself to enter the “Church of joy” by being baptized and entering into a

sacred Covenant with their Heavenly Father. I loved seeing pure “JOY” as they came

out of the waters of baptism, and feeling the Love of our Heavenly Father and Jesus

Christ as they received the Holy Ghost. It is so Awesome!!! If you need to see or feel

that again You can!!

Two ways to do so. First- actually go to a Baptism or take time to remember your

own Baptism. Second- Preparing to Worship and not just attend your sacrament

meeting. Elder Kearon stated in the last Conference, Quote “We do not gather on the

Sabbath simply to attend sacrament meeting and check it off the list. We Come together

to worship. There is a significant difference between the two. To attend means to be

present at. But to worship is to intentionally praise and adore our God in a way that

Transforms us!!”

If I just go for runs with no plan or direction I’m simply checking it off a list and my

progression is limited, but when I prepare and stay focused on the run I see

improvement. Not that all runs go according to plan, but overall the runs are

transforming me into a better runner. The same can be applied spiritually as we prepare

for and actively worship during the sacrament.

So, how do we intentionally praise and worship? One way is to Sing. No matter

the quality of our voices. So let us sing! And Praise Him!

Another way is in our preparation (how do we Prepare)? When I prepare for a run

I have a list of things...Running prep- Pizza and Diet deliciousness. Cloths out, map,

check weather, etc..

Spiritually- have we tried to always remember him during the week. What was

the Desire of our heart, our willingness, and focus as we prepare for the sabbath. What

are we doing to Prepare?

WE can prepare to worship Him by focusing our desire and willingness to renew

and recommit to our Covenants as we go to and partake of the Sacrament. Elder

Kearon also Stated, “This Glorious Focal point of our service is the whole purpose of

our gathering. This is a Sacred time of spiritual renewal. This is when we witness anew

that we are willing to take upon us the name of Jesus Christ and make again the

covenant to always remember Him and to keep His commandments”.

Parents with little children or those with special needs might feel like this is an

impossible thing, but in small moments throughout the week and during the sacrament,

you can teach by example the love, gratitude, and joy you feel for and from the savior

as you constantly care for His little ones.

Trailside- Busy/louder/ meeting. But I love it- so many Parents striving to Teach

their children and grandchildren the importance of the sacrament.

A special experience

The Lunts- 3 little boys. Some weeks it was a battle, but the Lunts commitment to their

covenants and to their Savior was and is such an example to me. They are committed

to being there every week. One week there was a moment of “Joyful Reverence” I

would like to share- Yes, I did ask permission to share this awesome experience.

It was a normal sacrament meeting with a few minor battles, but as the

congregation sang the closing hymn, I believed it was “I am a Child of God”. Those boys

stopped and sang that song!! Oh what a powerful spirit they brought as they

worshipped. Looking back at the row behind me I saw the JOY that was felt in Brother

and Sister Lunts hearts!!! Talking to the Lunts after the meeting they told us they had

been working on that song each night before the boys went to bed.

Those with little ones I too testify that your efforts are felt and are known. Elder

Kearon also stated that, “No effort in this pursuit (of those little ones) is wasted. God is

so aware of you.”

President Russell M Nelson said that, “each person who makes covenants in

baptismal fonts and in temples- and keeps them- has increased access to the power of

Jesus Christ...The reward for keeping covenants with God is heavenly power- power

that strengthens us to withstand our trails, temptations, and heartaches better”

Yes, we sometimes get distracted. We forget, we even lose focus. But renewing

our covenants means that we WANT to always remember the Savior, that we will try to

do so throughout the week, and that we will RECOMMIT and refocus on Him at the

sacrament table next week. That is powerful!!!

Sister Freeman asked this question and gave the answer “Should I invest in a

covenant relationship with the Lord? The answer to this good and important question is

Simple: It depends on what degree of relationship you want to experience with Jesus

Christ.”

Some of my fellow runners have told me to not worry about the miles or the plan

since I have already qualified for this Marathon in a few weeks. Just go and have fun,

but I want to enjoy the Marathon, not just finish it. Am I willing to put forth more than a

superficial effort into my race preparations? Yes

Now brothers and sisters spiritually- Are we willing to put forth more than a

superficial effort into strengthening our faith in Christ? Am I willing to Trust our Savior

and his plan?

I love Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust in His plan, the plan of true happiness, the Plan that

Binds us to Him as we Make and keep Sacred covenants. Let us recommit and

prepare to the partake spiritually by focusing on and preparing for the next ordinance in

our life. Whether that's Baptism, the Sacrament, or temple ordinances.

By doing so I testify that you will receive the enabling power of the Atonement

that will strengthen your spiritual foundation solidly on Jesus Christ.

 Sister Anderson shares her experience of preparing for baptism and the importance of understanding the covenants. She discusses the story of Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist and its significance. She talks about the importance of partaking of the sacrament to remember baptismal covenants. She emphasizes the role of keeping covenants in following Jesus throughout our lives.

President Hamilton emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord, keeping commandments, and partaking of the sacrament. He encourages everyone to continue to strive to be peacemakers and build strong relationships. He recounts the story of Mary and Caroline Rollins' Mission to Save the Book of Commandments. Angry men broke into the building where the Book of Commandments was being printed, destroying the printing press and scattering the pages. Mary and her sister Caroline decided to retrieve the pages, despite Caroline's fear of the angry men. The sisters waited until the men weren't looking and then ran into the street to gather as many pages as they could hold. Two men saw them and chased them into a nearby cornfield, but Mary and Caroline hid the pages under their bodies and listened quietly as the men searched for them. The men eventually gave up, and Mary and Caroline successfully saved the pages of the Lord's commandments.

President Hamilton emphasizes the importance of keeping the commandments and making them precious. He suggests that individuals should identify which commandment they need to keep better and focus on that. By keeping the commandments, individuals will fill their lives with more of the Spirit. President Hamilton  talked about taking upon oneself the name of Christ, as taught by President Nelson. He explains that taking upon oneself the name of Christ means taking upon oneself all of His titles and attributes.

President Hamilton lists various names and titles of Jesus Christ, encouraging individuals to resonate with one that speaks to them. Examples of names and titles include Mercy, Savior, Redeemer, Bread of Life, Lord, Creator, and many more. He highlights the significance of each name and how it can guide us in our spiritual journey.  He quotes Jeffrey R. Holland on the power of the names of Jesus Christ and their impact on individuals. He emphasizes the importance of living like a refuge from the storm and bringing peace to others.

President Hamilton acknowledges that keeping covenants and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost does not guarantee a perfect life. He shares a story from John chapter nine about a man born blind, questioning why individuals suffer or struggle. The story highlights that neither the man nor his parents sinned, suggesting that suffering and struggle are not always due to personal sin. He encourages individuals to find meaning and purpose in their struggles, despite the challenges they face.