Moving forward: LDS leader reaches out, urges respect
Speaking Sunday morning during the fourth session of the 178th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he said, "Change for the better can come to all. Over the years we have issued appeals to the less active, the offended, the critic, the transgressor — to come back. 'Come back and feast at the table of the Lord and taste again the sweet and satisfying fruits of fellowship with the Saints.'"
"We reach out to you in the pure love of Christ and express our desire to assist you and to welcome you into full fellowship."
It was his first address to the general church membership since he was announced as president on Feb. 4.
He also continued a theme that his predecessor, President Gordon B. Hinckley, emphasized: kindness to all.
President Monson encouraged Latter-day Saints to show kindness and respect for all people everywhere — including their own families. He said the Savior "went about doing good ... for God was with him. May we follow that perfect example."
He also expressed deep humility at finding himself in his present position, more than 44 years after he was sustained as an apostle in October 1963.
"I assure you that I was humbled by my call to the Twelve at that time. However, as I stand at this pulpit today, I address you from the absolute depths of humility. I feel very keenly my dependence upon the Lord."
He reflected on Saturday morning's solemn assembly, where he was sustained as the 16th president of the church by members worldwide. "As your hands were raised toward heaven, my heart was touched."
President Monson also acknowledged the 15 men who preceded him as church president. "I am grateful for the abiding legacy left by each one of these 15 men." He praised President Gordon B. Hinckley for his foresight and vision to construct the Conference Center, saying his predecessor was loved by all.
Sunday afternoon, he closed the fifth and final session of the conference by recalling details of a recent accident his wife suffered. The two will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in October, he said.
Frances Monson suffered a terrible fall and was in a coma in the hospital for 27 days. "She never moved a muscle," he said. He, his children and grandchildren worried and wept. Then one day she opened her eyes.
"I set a speed record getting to her side," President Monson said. After they exchanged expressions of love, she admitted she had failed to mail their most recent quarterly tax payment, he said, drawing laughter from the audience. He then urged husbands and wives to love and care for each other more attentively.
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