Encouraging Youth to Embrace Faith and Doctrine: Highlights from October 2024 General Conference
ICARO Media Group
### Church Leaders Encourage Youth to Embrace Faith and Doctrine at October 2024 General Conference
Leading figures from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints addressed the younger members of their congregation during the October 2024 general conference, imparting wisdom and guidance tailored to children, youth, and young adults. President Henry B. Eyring, serving as the second counselor in the First Presidency, alongside several Apostles and youth leaders, emphasized the importance of understanding and living the doctrines of Jesus Christ.
In the Sunday morning session, President Eyring spoke directly to parents and educators, underscoring the need to seize every opportunity to teach children the core principles of their faith. "We should seize every opportunity to share the teachings of Jesus Christ with children," he stated, advising that teaching simply is a surefire way to instill true doctrine and protect against false teachings. He referenced the stories of Enos, Alma the Younger, and the sons of Mosiah, highlighting how they remembered their parents’ teachings during times of crisis, thereby finding redemption.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed the youth during the Saturday afternoon session, urging them to renounce vulgar and profane language, which he described as a "weapon of rebellion" against God. He encouraged young individuals to engage in uplifting and positive speech, as outlined in the For the Strength of Youth guide.
Elder Gary E. Stevenson, also of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke during the Sunday morning session, challenging the younger generation to make the forthcoming decade unforgettable by actively embracing their roles as disciples of Christ. He encouraged them to live the gospel, care for those in need, share their faith, and work towards uniting families for eternity. Elder Stevenson expressed confidence in their ability to be influential leaders and carry out significant work within the church.
Elder Ulisses Soares shared stories during the Saturday afternoon session of young individuals demonstrating spiritual dedication. One young man felt compelled to embark on a mission after hearing a senior church leader's testimony, while a young woman maintained her modesty at a fashion company, thereby gaining respect and preserving her job. Elder Soares emphasized these examples as embodiments of true discipleship and covenant keeping.
Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman recounted a blessing given to her granddaughter, Isabelle, highlighting the significance of priesthood recognition in her life. Freeman connected this to the broader potential every young woman in the church holds to become an "elect lady," akin to what the Lord expressed to Emma Smith in Doctrine and Covenants 25.
Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, spoke on Sunday morning about the unique birthright of the youth in their church community, describing it as a symbol of divine trust and love. He encouraged them not to conform to worldly influences but to embrace their role in helping others return to God.
Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, discussed the importance of seeking answers to spiritual questions, assuring the audience that such inquiries are a natural part of their spiritual journey. She emphasized that God's commandments are meant to facilitate personal revelation and spiritual education, not to serve as obstacles.
During Saturday afternoon, Elder José A. Teixeira, a General Authority Seventy, commended the youth for their inspiring dedication to family history work, temple visits, and mission service. He praised their deep faith and leadership in becoming true disciples of Jesus Christ, noting that their service brings light and hope to many lives.