Introduction

Mourn the Loss of President Nelson

President Oaks addresses the recent passing of President Russell M. Nelson and the impact it has had on the Church and its members. He acknowledges the grief felt by many and the adjustments made to the conference schedule to honor President Nelson.

We meet as we mourn the death of our beloved President Russell M. Nelson.

In this time of grief, we have already held a meeting to pay tribute to President Russell M. Nelson before our general conference meetings.

• The Church is mourning the passing of President Nelson.
• Adjustments were made to the conference schedule to accommodate his funeral.
• Tributes are planned for the funeral rather than during the conference.

• Reflect on a time when you experienced the loss of a loved one and how your faith helped you cope.
• Think about a leader or mentor in your life who has passed away and the lessons they taught you.
• Consider how you have dealt with grief in the past and what brought you comfort.

Honor President Nelson's Legacy

President Oaks emphasizes the importance of continuing with the plans set by President Nelson for the general conference, highlighting his dedication and leadership. He shares his personal admiration and respect for President Nelson as a model servant of Jesus Christ.

President Nelson understood the value of general conference to provide direction to the Saints in the coming months.

I loved 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.

• The conference schedule was approved by President Nelson.
• President Nelson's leadership is a model for all.
• Personal tribute to President Nelson highlights his impact on President Oaks.

• Share an experience where you followed the guidance of a Church leader and how it impacted your life.
• Discuss a time when you were inspired by someone's example of leadership.
• Reflect on how you honor the legacy of those who have influenced you.

Proceed with Conference Plans

Despite the passing of President Nelson, the Church moves forward with the planned general conference, following the schedule and assignments he approved. This demonstrates the continuity and resilience of Church leadership.

We honor him by following the planned conference schedule he approved.

The only additions are this, my introductory explanation, and my speaking in place of President Nelson in the closing session on Sunday afternoon.

• The conference continues as planned, following President Nelson's approval.
• Leadership meetings and general sessions are held as scheduled.
• The Church demonstrates resilience and continuity in leadership.

• Think about a time when you had to continue with plans despite unexpected challenges.
• Share an experience where you witnessed or were part of a seamless transition in leadership.
• Reflect on how you maintain continuity in your personal or professional life during times of change.

Pay Tribute with Restraint

President Oaks requests that conference speakers limit tributes to President Nelson during the sessions, focusing instead on the planned messages and deferring extensive tributes to the funeral.

Since all of us who have been assigned to speak in general conference would like to devote our assigned time to paying a personal tribute to President Nelson, we have therefore asked that all of our conference speakers hold any such tributes to a minimum.

• Speakers are asked to limit tributes during conference.
• Extensive tributes are planned for the funeral.
• Focus remains on delivering the planned messages.

• Consider a time when you had to balance personal emotions with professional responsibilities.
• Reflect on how you have shown respect and honor in a formal setting.
• Think about how you manage to stay focused on tasks during emotionally challenging times.

Testimony of President Nelson's Influence

President Oaks shares his personal testimony of the profound influence President Nelson had on his understanding of the gospel and leadership. He expresses his love and respect for President Nelson as a servant of Jesus Christ.

He is our model as a servant and follower of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I 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 Nelson is a model servant of Jesus Christ.
• His influence on gospel understanding and leadership is profound.
• President Oaks expresses deep personal admiration and respect.

• Share a personal testimony of someone who has greatly influenced your spiritual journey.
• Reflect on how a leader or mentor has helped you grow in your understanding of the gospel.
• Discuss the qualities you admire in those who serve as examples of Christ-like leadership.