They Spoke to Us

Report from the 163rd Semiannual General Conference, October 2–3, 1993

President Gordon B. Hinckley, First Counselor in the First Presidency: I give you my solemn testimony that Jesus Christ, whose church it is and whose name it bears, will never let any man or group of men lead it astray.

President Thomas S. Monson, Second Counselor in the First Presidency: Choose your friends carefully, for you will tend to be like them and be found where they choose to go.

Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: You great young people of the Church … have had, or are currently having, the opportunity of being taught by loving Primary teachers who teach the gospel principles that will help you choose the right. The Book of Mormon is filled with accounts of what happens to people who make both the right and wrong choices. … I promise you that you will receive everlasting happiness if you consistently choose to do what is right.

Elder Monte J. Brough of the Presidency of the Seventy: I suggest that all who listen to my voice would benefit by an examination of the lives of those we sustain as general officers of the Church. You will find some important examples among them and come to know those who have “a perfect heart.”

Elder John H. Groberg of the Seventy: We should always pray for help, but we should always listen for inspiration and impressions to proceed in ways different from those we may have thought of.

Elder Eugene Hansen of the Seventy: Real joy and happiness come from living in such a way that our Heavenly Father will be pleased with us. … One cannot break God’s commandments and be happy. We should remember the scripture, “Wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10).

Elder Hugh W. Pinnock of the Seventy: A successful home is based on the love and helpfulness of children just as it is based on loving parents handling their responsibilities. … Be eager to forgive when problems arise at home. Help with your younger brothers and sisters when needed. You are their hero.

Bishop Robert D. Hales, Presiding Bishop: I learned respect for womanhood from my father’s tender caring for my mother, my sister, and his sisters. Father was the first to arise from dinner to clear the table. My sister and I would wash and dry the dishes each night at Father’s request. If we were not there, Father and Mother would clean the kitchen together.

Elder Jacob de Jager, Emeritus Member of the Seventy: Learn to be satisfied. It is just as easy as being dissatisfied—and much more pleasant.

Photos by Matt Reier