General Conference serves as a spiritual beacon, illuminating the path for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints worldwide. It is a biannual event that holds a place of profound significance in the hearts of millions. A time when the global community of Saints unites in anticipation and reverence to receive divine counsel and inspiration. As someone who has walked this path of discipleship from a young age. General Conference has been a cornerstone of my spiritual journey, offering me guidance, strength, and renewed hope in tumultuous times.

The days leading up to General Conference are marked by a sense of eager anticipation and preparation. Families gather together, both in person and virtually, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to partake of the spiritual feast that awaits. There is a palpable excitement in the air—a collective recognition that we are about to embark on a sacred journey together. Guided by the voices of modern-day prophets and apostles.

As the conference commences, a hush falls over the congregation, punctuated only by the soft strains of hymns sung in unison. In that sacred silence. Hearts are turned towards heaven, seeking divine guidance and revelation. It is a moment of profound unity—a recognition that despite our diverse backgrounds and circumstances. We are bound together by a shared faith and commitment to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Throughout the conference, we are blessed to hear from inspired leaders who have been called to guide and shepherd the Church in these latter days. Their messages resonate with wisdom and truth, offering timely counsel and encouragement to navigate the challenges of our time. Whether addressing issues of personal faith and discipleship. Family relationships, or global concerns, each speaker brings a unique perspective and insight, guided by the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

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Sacred opportunity with General Conference

For me, General Conference is more than just a series of talks or sermons. It is a sacred opportunity to connect with heaven and receive personal revelation. As I listen to the inspired words of our leaders, I find answers to my prayers, solace in times of trial, and direction for the path ahead. The messages speak to the deepest desires of my heart. Reaffirming my faith and commitment to live according to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In the days and weeks following General Conference, the impact of those inspired messages continues to resonate in my life. They serve as a guiding light, illuminating my path and helping me navigate the complexities of daily living. With each passing day, I strive to incorporate the principles taught into my life. Seeking to become a better disciple of Christ and a beacon of light to those around me.

As I reflect on the profound blessings of General Conference, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this sacred gathering. It is a time of renewal and spiritual rejuvenation. A chance to draw closer to God and His Son, Jesus Christ. And as I eagerly anticipate the next conference. I do so with faith and anticipation, knowing that it will once again be a time of inspiration, revelation, and divine connection.

The Gathering of Saints:

The anticipation leading up to General Conference is palpable, infusing our homes with a sense of excitement and reverence. Families gather together, both physically and virtually, as we eagerly await the opportunity to partake of the spiritual feast that awaits. For many of us, this means settling into the comfort of our living rooms. Surrounded by loved ones and the familiar trappings of home.

While some fortunate souls have the opportunity to attend General Conference. In person at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, for many, myself included, the experience unfolds within the cozy confines of our homes. As much as we might dream of sitting in the hallowed halls of the Conference Center. Soaking in the presence of prophets and apostles, the logistics of traveling with young children often make it impractical. Indeed, children under the age of eight are not admitted into the Conference Center. A policy that resonates with the practical realities of parenting but can also be a source of disappointment for families with little ones.

Yet, far from being a hindrance, watching General Conference from home offers its own unique blessings and opportunities for connection. Gathered around the television or computer screen, we come together as a family, united in purpose and faith. Despite the miles that may separate us from our fellow Saints. We are bound together by a shared commitment to worship and learn.

Parents of Young Children

For parents of young children, watching General Conference from home brings its own set of joys and challenges. While the proceedings unfold on screen, there is a delightful chaos that accompanies the experience. Babies babbling, toddlers squirming, and preschoolers asking endless questions. Yet, even amidst the noise and interruptions. There is a sacredness to the moment—a recognition that we are participating in something greater than ourselves. Something that transcends the ordinary routines of daily life.

As we watch and listen to the inspired words of our leaders. We do so with the knowledge that we are not alone. Though separated by physical distance, we are joined in spirit with Saints around the world. All striving to draw closer to God and His Son, Jesus Christ. And while our little ones may not fully understand the significance of what they are witnessing. Their presence serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of passing on the torch of faith to the next generation.

In the quiet moments between talks, there is time for reflection and discussion as a family. We share our thoughts and impressions, ask questions, and seek to apply the principles taught to our lives. And as we do so, we feel the spirit of General Conference permeate our hearts and homes. Filling us with hope, peace, and renewed determination to follow the Savior.

Find ways to connect

So, while the Conference Center may be off-limits to young children, the blessings of General Conference are not. Whether gathered in the hallowed halls of the Conference Center or nestled together in our living rooms. We are all part of the great gathering of Saints, united in our devotion to Jesus Christ and His gospel. And as we continue on this sacred journey together, may we find strength, comfort, and inspiration in the words spoken and the spirit felt during this special time.

Revelation and Guidance: One of the most remarkable aspects of General Conference is the emphasis on revelation and guidance. We believe in living prophets and apostles who receive divine inspiration to guide the Church in these latter days. Through their words, we receive counsel tailored to our current circumstances and challenges. However, for parents with young children, finding moments of quiet reflection and focused attention can be challenging amidst the joyful chaos of family life.

As each speaker takes the pulpit, there’s a sense of anticipation about the message they will share. Whether it’s a comforting reminder of God’s love. A call to action to live more fully the teachings of Jesus Christ, or practical advice for navigating life’s challenges. Each talk is infused with the spirit of revelation.

Involving children in the experience of General Conference can present its own set of challenges. But it’s also an incredibly important aspect of nurturing their faith and understanding. While it may be difficult to maintain their attention for the duration of the sessions. Finding ways to include them in the proceedings can have a profound impact on their spiritual development.

Involving Children

For parents like myself, juggling the demands of childcare during General Conference can sometimes feel overwhelming. There are snacks to prepare, diapers to change, and restless little ones to soothe. Yet, amidst the busyness, there are moments of quiet connection and shared reverence that are no less sacred for their simplicity.

Involving children in General Conference doesn’t necessarily mean expecting them to sit still and listen attentively for hours on end. Instead, it’s about finding creative ways to incorporate the spirit of the conference into our family life. This might involve setting up a special corner with coloring books and quiet activities, or inviting children to draw pictures of what they hear during the talks. It could mean pausing occasionally to explain concepts in simple terms. Or sharing personal experiences that resonate with the messages being shared.

By involving our children in the experience of General Conference. We teach them that their voices and insights are valued and important. We help them develop a love for the words of the prophets and apostles. Deepening understanding of the gospel principles being taught. And perhaps most importantly, we create lasting memories of shared faith and devotion that will stay with them long after the conference has ended.

So, while it may be challenging to find moments of quiet reflection amidst the joyful chaos of family life. Involving our children in General Conference is an essential part of nurturing their spiritual growth and understanding. As we strive to create a culture of reverence and respect within our homes. May we find joy and fulfillment in the knowledge that we are helping to raise a generation of faithful disciples who will carry the torch of truth and light into the future.

Games

Here are some engaging games and activities to help kids stay interested and involved during General Conference:

1. General Conference Bingo:
   • Create bingo cards with various conference-related items or themes, such as “prophet speaking,” “mention of scriptures,” or “talk about service.”
   • As children listen to the speakers, they mark off the corresponding squares on their bingo cards.
   • The first child to get a row, column, or diagonal filled shouts “Bingo!” and wins a small prize.
2. Prophet Puzzle:
   • Print out pictures of the prophets and apostles who will be speaking at General Conference.
   • Cut the pictures into puzzle pieces and mix them up.
   • As each speaker is introduced, children can race to assemble the puzzle of that speaker.
   • This activity helps children become familiar with the faces and names of Church leaders.
3. Prophet Guessing Game:
   • Write down interesting facts or quotes from different prophets and apostles on separate pieces of paper.
   • Without showing the names, read out the facts or quotes to the children.
   • Children can guess which prophet or apostle said each statement.
   • This game helps children learn more about the lives and teachings of Church leaders.
4. Conference Journal:
   • Provide each child with a blank journal or notebook.
   • Encourage them to write or draw their thoughts, feelings, and impressions as they listen to the speakers.
   • After each session, children can share what they wrote or drew with the family and discuss their favorite parts.
5. Prophet Matching Game:
   • Create cards with pictures of prophets and apostles on one side and their names on the other.
   • Mix up the cards and lay them face down on the table.
   • Children take turns flipping over two cards at a time, trying to match the prophet with their name.
   • This game helps children learn the names and faces of Church leaders in an interactive way.

Personal Application:

General Conference isn’t just about listening to inspiring messages; it’s about applying those teachings in our daily lives. As I listen to the speakers, I reflect on how I can become a better disciple of Christ, a better spouse, parent, and member of my community. The messages challenge me to align my life more closely with the teachings of the Savior.

For parents, applying the principles taught during General Conference extends beyond personal growth. It also involves nurturing the spiritual development of our children. As we listen to the inspired words of our leaders. We consider how we can translate those teachings into lessons and activities that resonate with our children’s understanding.

One way to involve children in the personal application of General Conference messages is through family discussions and activities. After each session, my family gathers together to share our thoughts and impressions. Asking questions and seeking to understand how we can implement the teachings in our lives. We talk about ways to show love and kindness to others, ways to strengthen our relationships with family members, and ways to serve in our community.

Another way to involve children

Another way to involve children is to encourage them to set simple, achievable goals based on the principles taught during General Conference. For example, a child might decide to be more patient with siblings. Show gratitude for blessings each day, or find opportunities to serve others in their neighborhood. By helping children set and achieve these goals, we teach them the importance of personal growth and discipleship from a young age.

Additionally, incorporating the teachings of General Conference into our family routines and traditions can reinforce their significance in our lives. We might start a family scripture study or prayer routine inspired by messages we hear during conference. We might create a family motto or mission statement based on the themes of love, service, and discipleship. By weaving these teachings into the fabric of our family life, we create lasting impressions that shape our children’s understanding of their identity and purpose as disciples of Christ.

As we involve our children in the personal application of General Conference messages, we not only strengthen our own testimonies but also help them develop a foundation of faith that will sustain them throughout their lives. By modeling a commitment to gospel principles and involving them in the process of spiritual growth, we instill in them a love for the Savior and His teachings that will guide them on their own journey of discipleship. And as we witness their growth and progress, we are reminded of the sacred responsibility we have as parents to nurture and support their spiritual development every step of the way.

Strengthening Faith:

One of the most beautiful aspects of General Conference is its ability to strengthen our faith. As we listen to the testimonies of our leaders and fellow members. We’re reminded that we’re not alone on this journey. We’re part of a global community of believers who are striving to follow the Savior.

The stories shared during conference are often deeply personal and heartfelt. They remind us that God is aware of each of us individually and that He loves us perfectly. These testimonies resonate deeply with my own experiences, reinforcing my faith and commitment to discipleship.

However, for parents, maintaining and strengthening faith can sometimes feel like a daunting task amidst the myriad responsibilities of family life. Yet, General Conference provides a unique opportunity to fortify our spiritual foundations and deepen our connection to God and His Son, Jesus Christ.

One way to strengthen faith as a family is to create a culture of reverence and worship within the home. This might involve regular family scripture study and prayer, family home evenings centered on gospel principles, and open discussions about spiritual experiences and insights. By prioritizing these activities, we invite the spirit into our homes and nurture an atmosphere of faith and devotion that permeates every aspect of family life.

Another way to strengthen faith is through personal study and reflection. As individuals, we can carve out moments of quiet contemplation amidst the busyness of daily life to ponder the messages of General Conference and seek personal revelation. Whether it’s through scripture study, prayer, or journaling, these moments of introspection deepen our understanding of gospel principles and draw us closer to the Savior.

Looking to the Future:

As General Conference draws to a close, there’s a sense of renewal and optimism among the Saints. We’ve been spiritually fed and uplifted, and we carry that light and truth with us as we return to our homes and communities.

But General Conference isn’t just a one-time event; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Armed with the guidance and inspiration we’ve received, we embark on a journey of continued growth and discipleship. We strive to live more fully the teachings of Jesus Christ and to share His love with others.

For parents, looking to the future means instilling in our children a love for the gospel and a desire to follow the Savior. It means teaching them to rely on the principles taught during General Conference as a source of strength and guidance in their lives. It means nurturing their testimonies and helping them develop a personal relationship with God.

As we look to the future, we do so with faith and anticipation, knowing that God has a plan for each of us and that He will guide us as we strive to follow Him. We may not know what challenges lie ahead, but we trust in His promises and take comfort in the knowledge that He is with us every step of the way.

In conclusion, General Conference is a sacred and cherished tradition that strengthens our faith and prepares us for the future. As we apply the teachings we’ve received and look to the future with hope and anticipation, we do so with confidence, knowing that we are children of a loving Heavenly Father who has a plan for our happiness and salvation.

Conclusion:

General Conference is not merely a biannual event; it is a spiritual oasis in the desert of our lives, a beacon of light guiding us through the darkness, and a source of strength and inspiration for the journey ahead. As the conference draws to a close, there’s a sense of renewal and optimism among the Saints—a recognition that we have been spiritually fed and uplifted, and that we carry that light and truth with us as we return to our homes and communities.

The impact of General Conference extends far beyond the days of its proceedings. It seeps into the crevices of our hearts and minds, shaping our thoughts, actions, and aspirations. It prompts us to reevaluate our priorities, realign our lives with the teachings of Jesus Christ, and recommit ourselves to the path of discipleship.

For Parents

For parents, General Conference is an invaluable opportunity to strengthen our families and nurture the spiritual growth of our children. It is a time to gather together, both physically and spiritually, and to instill in our children a love for the gospel and a desire to follow the Savior. It is a time to teach them the importance of faith, prayer, and service, and to help them develop a personal relationship with God.

As we look to the future, we do so with faith and anticipation, knowing that God has a plan for each of us and that He will guide us as we strive to follow Him. We may not know what challenges lie ahead, but we trust in His promises and take comfort in the knowledge that He is with us every step of the way.

In the end, General Conference is a sacred and cherished tradition that strengthens our faith, unites us as a global community of believers, and prepares us for the journey ahead. As we apply the teachings we’ve received and look to the future with hope and anticipation, we do so with confidence, knowing that we are children of a loving Heavenly Father who has a plan for our happiness and salvation. And as we eagerly await the next gathering, may we carry the light and truth of General Conference with us, shining brightly in a world in need of hope and healing.

Questions

1. What is General Conference?
   • General Conference is a biannual gathering of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, during which they receive guidance, instruction, and inspiration from Church leaders, including prophets, apostles, and other authorities.
2. When does General Conference take place?
   • General Conference is typically held on the first weekends of April and October each year. Sessions are held on Saturday and Sunday, with each session lasting approximately two hours.
3. Where is General Conference held?
   • General Conference is held at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. However, it is broadcast worldwide via satellite, radio, television, and the internet, allowing members to participate from wherever they are.
4. Who speaks at General Conference?
   • General Conference speakers include the President of the Church, members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, other General Authorities, and occasionally general officers of the Church’s auxiliary organizations.
5. What topics are covered during General Conference?
   • General Conference addresses a wide range of topics relevant to members of the Church, including faith, repentance, forgiveness, family relationships, service, missionary work, and personal development.
6. How can I watch General Conference?
   • General Conference can be watched live on the Church’s official website (churchofjesuschrist.org), broadcast on various television and radio stations, and streamed via the Church’s official apps and social media channels.

More Questions

1. Can children attend General Conference?
   • While General Conference sessions are open to all members of the Church and the public, children under the age of eight are not admitted into the Conference Center in Salt Lake City. However, families are encouraged to watch and participate in General Conference together from their homes.
2. How can I prepare for General Conference?
   • To prepare for General Conference, members are encouraged to prayerfully consider questions or concerns they may have and seek personal revelation. Reading scriptures, studying past conference talks, and fasting are also common ways to prepare spiritually.
3. Are General Conference talks available after the event?
   • Yes, talks given during General Conference are typically published in church magazines and made available on the Church’s official website shortly after the event. They can also be accessed in the Gospel Library app and other official Church publications.
4. Is there interpretation available for non-English speakers?
   • Yes, simultaneous interpretation into various languages is provided for non-English speakers attending in-person at the Conference Center. Additionally, translations of talks are made available in multiple languages on the Church’s official website and through other channels.