President Hinckley Visits Tacoma, Washington

Calling the gospel the “greatest investment I know,” President Gordon B. Hinckley addressed an audience of more than seventeen thousand people gathered at a Tacoma, Washington, regional conference.

“It is not a sacrifice to live the gospel of Jesus Christ,” President Hinckley said. “It is never a sacrifice when you get back more than you give. It is an investment. It is the greatest investment I know because the dividends are everlasting.”

Speaking to those who had gathered from throughout the Tacoma region, which covers much of the southwestern portion of Washington state, President Hinckley also reminded members to observe the Sabbath day, live the Word of Wisdom, become more enthusiastic about temple and missionary work, and live the gospel.

Joining President Hinckley at the conference were Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder Glenn L. Pace of the Seventy, and their wives, who also spoke at the Sunday morning meeting.

President Hinckley urged members to refrain from such Sabbath-breaking activities as attending sporting events and other commercial activities and shopping. He urged members to focus on strengthening their families and following the words of the prophets.

While in Tacoma, President Hinckley conducted a leadership session. “You and I are part of a great and divine eternal plan,” President Hinckley told more than fourteen hundred priesthood leaders from the eleven-stake region. “Think about it. Pray about it. Ponder it. Meditate on your calling, your service, and the immense responsibility you have.”

President Hinckley also met with missionaries from the Washington Tacoma Mission and the temple presidency of the Seattle Temple.