Building Zion through Unity

By Elder D. Todd Christofferson

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Based on an October 2008 general conference address.

Zion is both a place and a people. Zion was the name given to the ancient city of Enoch. The Lord called Enoch’s people Zion “because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them” (Moses 7:18). Elsewhere He said, “For this is Zion—the pure in heart” (Doctrine and Covenants 97:21).

To establish Zion in our homes, branches, wards, and stakes, we need to (1) become unified in one heart and one mind; (2) become holy people; and (3) care for the poor and needy. We cannot wait until Zion comes for these things to happen—Zion will come only as they happen.

We will become of one heart and one mind as we individually place the Savior at the center of our lives, follow those He has commissioned to lead us, and unite in love and concern for one another. This unity and love for one another, multiplied thousands of times in different ways, will “bring again Zion” (Isaiah 52:8).