SALT LAKE CITY – The 195th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began Saturday with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at its helm, following the recent death of President Russell M. Nelson at age 101.
Elder Henry B. Eyring, who served in the First Presidency under President Nelson, explained the church is currently in an “apostolic interregnum,” a period of transition that has occurred previously in the faith’s history. He noted that he and President Dallin H. Oaks, the senior apostle expected to become the next church president, have resumed their places within the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles based on seniority until the First Presidency is reorganized.
This leadership structure is a rare occurrence for a general conference, last happening in 1951 after the death of President George Albert Smith.
President Oaks delivered the opening remarks, assuring members the two-day conference would proceed with the schedule President Nelson had approved. “We honor him by following the planned conference schedule he approved,” Oaks said.
He also paid tribute to the late leader, with whom he had served since 1984. “I love Russell M. Nelson and have learned more about the gospel and gospel leadership from my long friendship and association with him than from any other leader I have personally known,” President Oaks stated.
A public viewing for President Nelson is scheduled for Monday, with the funeral to be held Tuesday at the Conference Center.
The opening session also addressed the recent deadly attack at a Latter-day Saint meetinghouse in Grand Blanc, Michigan, where a gunman killed four people and injured eight before setting the building on fire.
Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles acknowledged the tragedy as he began his address on peacemaking. “We realize that our hearts are mourning loss, and some feel uncertainty caused by violence or tragedy throughout the world,” he said.
Echoing a frequent message from President Nelson, Elder Stevenson urged people to foster peace, particularly in online interactions. “Before posting, replying, or commenting online, ask, will this build a bridge? If not, stop,” he advised. “Instead, share goodness. Publish peace in the place of hate.”
General conference sessions will continue through Sunday afternoon.
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