News Story

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Teaches Youth in Southern Alberta

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints challenged over 2,500 youth to devote their lives to God in an address given last weekend in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Youth began flooding the local chapel in southern Alberta more than two hours before the event. When the meetinghouse filled to overflowing, the proceedings were broadcast to two other buildings to accommodate the large number of Mormon youth and their leaders who wanted to hear from the apostle.

Elder Holland spoke to the youth about the importance of the next decade and how the decisions they make between the ages of 12 and 22 will largely determine the course of the rest of their lives. He encouraged the youth to choose their friends wisely and to follow the good counsel of their parents.

Elder Holland spoke of his Mormon mission to London, England, and the remarkable impact it had on his life. He encouraged the youth to prepare to serve missions, to join over 82,000 Mormon missionaries currently serving throughout the world who live and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Elders William Walker and Vern Stanfill of the Seventy accompanied Elder Holland during his visit. Earlier in the day they met with local Mormon leaders. Elder Holland reminded them to be witnesses of Christ and to always help individuals increase their faith and strengthen their families. Elder Holland stated, “I believe in the power of a righteous life.”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland was ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 23 June 1994. Apostles of the Church devote their lives to serving others full time.

The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is the second-highest presiding body in the government of the Church. Its members serve under the direction of the First Presidency, a governing unit of three men — the president and two counsellors.

In addition to their primary responsibility to be special witnesses of the name of Christ throughout the world, the apostles have heavy administrative responsibilities as they oversee the orderly progress and development of the global Church.

Just as their counterparts in ancient times were sent throughout the world, the apostles today travel the world to strengthen and encourage Church members, to organize new congregations and to conduct the business of the Church.

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