Solemn Assembly
Henry B. Eyring, Second Counselor in the First Presidency
President Eyring oversees the sustaining of Church leaders, including President Nelson, in a solemn assembly.
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What is the historical significance of solemn assemblies in the Church?
- How does the process of sustaining Church leaders work during a solemn assembly?
- Why is it important for members to participate in sustaining Church leaders?
Topics
Understanding the Solemn Assembly
President Eyring explains the historical and spiritual significance of the solemn assembly, a sacred occasion where members of the Church formally sustain new leaders.
This is an occasion of great significance for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the world.
Dating from October 10, 1880, when John Taylor was sustained to succeed Brigham Young as prophet, seer, and revelator and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, each of these occasions has been designated as a formal solemn assembly of the body of the Church to express the voice of the Church.
- What is a solemn assembly?
- Why are solemn assemblies significant in the history of the Church?
- How can understanding the importance of solemn assemblies strengthen your testimony?
- In what ways can you prepare yourself spiritually to participate in future solemn assemblies?
The Process of Sustaining Church Leaders
President Eyring details the process by which members of the Church sustain new leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective support.
We will vote by quorums and groups. Wherever you are, you are invited to stand only when requested and express by your uplifted hand that you choose to sustain those whose names will be presented.
The General Authorities assigned to the Tabernacle and the Assembly Hall on Temple Square will observe the voting in those facilities. In stake centers, a member of the stake presidency will observe the voting.
- How does the process of sustaining leaders work during a solemn assembly?
- Why is it important to follow the instructions given during the sustaining process?
- Reflect on a time when you participated in sustaining Church leaders. How did it make you feel?
- How can you show your support for Church leaders in your daily life?
The Role of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
The talk highlights the roles and responsibilities of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and the importance of sustaining them as prophets, seers, and revelators.
It is proposed that the First Presidency sustain Russell Marion Nelson as prophet, seer, and revelator and President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
It is proposed that the First Presidency sustain the counselors in the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators.
- What are the responsibilities of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles?
- Why is it important to sustain them as prophets, seers, and revelators?
- How can you sustain the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in your personal prayers and actions?
- What can you do to better understand the teachings and guidance provided by these leaders?
Unity in the Church
President Eyring underscores the importance of unity within the Church as members collectively sustain their leaders, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
We now ask that the entire membership, wherever you are located, including all of those who have previously stood, please arise.
Thank you, brothers and sisters, for your love and support.
- Why is unity important in the Church?
- How does the act of collectively sustaining leaders contribute to unity?
- In what ways can you promote unity within your ward or branch?
- How can you show love and support for fellow Church members and leaders?
Personal Commitment to Sustaining Leaders
The talk emphasizes the personal commitment each member makes when they raise their hand to sustain Church leaders, signifying their support and willingness to follow their guidance.
You should vote only when asked to stand.
If anyone casts a contrary vote, those individuals should contact their respective stake presidents.
- What does it mean to personally sustain Church leaders?
- Why is it important to follow through on the commitment made when sustaining leaders?
- Reflect on your personal commitment to sustaining Church leaders. How has it influenced your actions?
- What steps can you take to ensure you are following the guidance of Church leaders in your daily life?
