“Memories to Carry into Eternity,” New Era, Aug. 2011, 34–37
Memories to Carry into Eternity
Youth conferences around the world build testimonies and friendships.
When Eric Uptain, 17, of the Spokane Washington East Stake heard about an 11-stake youth conference in his area, he decided he needed to be there. He says, “I was scheduled to work that week. I had to go through a lot to arrange to be there, but it was important to me to go.”
Youth conferences have long been a way for young Latter-day Saints to strengthen testimonies and meet others who believe in the same principles and standards. President Thomas S. Monson, in particular, has encouraged such events. He says, “Give them memories to carry into eternity, and your name will be called blessed by the Lord” (see “Mutually Beneficial,” Ensign, Aug. 2010, 26).
Devan Fillmore, 16, of the Spokane Washington West Stake explains: “I’m glad we have them so that we can see people who are living the gospel. We can see that they are happy and having a good time, and we can see that we can have that, too.”
Here are reports on several youth conferences that took place around the Church.
Col. Greg Adams of the Spokane Washington Valley Stake and the U.S. Army Reserves, spoke during a service project: “Your faith in God will carry you through life’s trials. Have the courage to do what’s right, no matter how hard it might be. You have the armor of God to give you spiritual protection.”
Photographs by Sally Johnson Odekirk