In the first address of the first session of the 193rd Semiannual General Conference, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles expressed his love, admiration and gratitude for the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“Your strong faith in Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ and your unpretentious, consecrated lives inspire me to be a better man and disciple,” Elder Bednar said.

Roughly 18,000 gathered in the expansive auditorium of the Conference Center on Saturday morning, Sept. 30, for the first of five sessions of the conference.

President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency, who conducted the session, noted the absence of two senior Church leaders at Saturday’s proceedings: Church President Russell M. Nelson and Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 

On Thursday, Sept. 28, President Nelson posted on social media about a recent fall that injured his back. Elder Holland is also watching from home due to continued health complications.

President Eyring also noted the recent passing of Sister Patricia Terry Holland, wife of Elder Holland. “Her’s was a life of goodness. She served in various capacities and supported her husband in his many assignments. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Elder Holland and to his family.”

In the final address of the session, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, spoke on God’s loving plan for His children. “We have a loving Heavenly Father who will see that we receive every blessing and every advantage that our own desires and choices allow,” he taught.

In addition to Elder Bednar, one of his fellow Apostles, Elder D. Todd Christofferson, gave remarks. Sister Amy A. Wright of the Primary general presidency; Elder Carlos A. Godoy of the Presidency of the Seventy; Elder Robert M. Daines, who was sustained in April as a new General Authority Seventy; and Elder Ian S. Ardern, also a General Authority Seventy; also spoke.

The invocation was offered by Elder Alvin F. Meredith III and the benediction was offered by the newest member of the Young Men general presidency, Brother Michael T. Nelson.

The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, with Mack Wilberg and Ryan Murphy conducting, performed “How Firm a Foundation,” “I Feel My Savior’s Love,” “Faith in Every Footstep” and “We Listen to a Prophet’s Voice,” accompanied by organists Andrew Unsworth and Richard Elliott. 

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