By President Dallin H. Oaks
President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The conference we convene today is different because it begins with what we call a solemn assembly.
My dear brothers and sisters, welcome to general conference. I now address members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, numbering over 17 million worldwide, and others who are interested in the remarkable progress and inspired teachings of this Church.
Most of you know we have these general conferences twice each year. But as many of you are not aware, the conference we convene today is different because it begins with what we call a solemn assembly. For more than a century, this has been an event of great significance to members of the Church.
In a solemn assembly, we will sustain members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, voting by quorums and groups. We do this only in the first conference where a new President and prophet of the Church has been called.
I am grateful to be among those whose leadership callings are formally recognized in this way and to express appreciation for your participation in this significant occasion.
In advance, I express our gratitude as leaders of the Church for our members’ sustaining vote, prayers, and support. We also pray for you to be guided and prospered as you continue the great service you give to the children of God throughout the world.
At this Easter season, I reaffirm our testimony of the resurrected Lord and recognize that He is the head of this Church. We pray for His blessings upon this conference and upon all of you in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
