THREE Topics To Remember from last General Conference!

General Conference is right around the corner and now is the best time to start preparing for it. Due to COVID-19, General Conference took place all online last April and it looks like it will be online again in October. So what are the topics that were discussed last time, and should we prepare ourselves with these topics again? Let's recap: 

#1: Joseph Smith and the Restoration of the Gospel

The first talk given in the first session was by President M. Russell Ballard. He gave an immediate reminder of the importance of the prophet Joseph Smith and his First Vision. He also went into depth on the trials and tribulations of the prophet in his mission to restore Christ's church, and restore the Gospel in these latter days. 

President Nelson asked us last year to ponder the question: What would our life be without the restored gospel? James R. Rasband of the Seventy discussed this in terms of the Book of Mormon and lessons taught to him because of it. Similarly, Elder Neil L. Andersen, discussed missionary work and the power that the restored gospel had had on those living all around the world, and showcased many stories of this. It is clear that the restored gospel has played a vital role in many lives, and it is important for us to continue to share this message.

#2: The Importance of our Covenants

One of my favorite talks given this conference was from President Joy D. Jones of the Primary General Presidency, in which she discussed the importance of having a latter-day prophet, but also how everyone has access to the Priesthood, by keeping the sacred covenants that we all make. In a time where gender equality is a big topic, and the discussion of women and the priesthood is ongoing, it was comforting to know that all of God's children have access to that same priesthood when they obey the commandments, and keep the covenants in which they have been given.

#3: The Power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ

James R. Rasband of the Seventy, discussed how important the Atonement was in the life of Alma, who had escaped the wicked hands of King Noah, and had begun the repentance process in his own life. He quoted President Boyd K. Packer when he said: 

"The thought that rescued Alma, when he acted upon it, is this: Restoring what you cannot restore, healing the wound you cannot heal, fixing that which you broke and you cannot fix is the very purpose of the atonement of Christ."

President Henry B. Eyring concluded the session talking about how Christ is our advocate, and that when we call on his name and access the Atonement, we are able to access the powers of Heaven and our Heavenly Father. 

Ultimately, the big over arching topic that encompassed all of the topics, was why we are living in this mortal life, that reason being, "To return back to Heavenly Father's presence." President Nelson has emphasized this point repeatedly, and I believe that we will hear this message more and more throughout the next General Conference in October.