Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles invited women to “arise and shine forth” as disciples of Christ during the BYU Women’s Conference held at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, according to remarks delivered on May 1.
The conference focused on encouraging participants to find spiritual strength and direction through faith in Jesus Christ. Elder Bednar said, “As we humbly accept [the Lord’s] will and timing in our lives, we will receive heavenly direction, protection and spiritual strength. We can be blessed to ‘arise and shine.’” He emphasized that building a foundation on Christ enables individuals to withstand challenges.
During his address, Elder Bednar referenced scriptural accounts from the New Testament as well as recent experiences among Latter-day Saints in Michigan. He explained that faith must be combined with action: “We can build the foundation of our lives upon the ‘rock of our Redeemer’ (Helaman 5:12) and spiritually rise up.” Citing President Harold B. Lee, he added, “You cannot lift another soul until you are standing on higher ground than he is.”
Elder Bednar also shared testimonies from members affected by a violent incident in Grand Blanc last October. One member wrote, “Being a disciple of Christ transcended any darkness we had endured. My testimony was strengthened by the knowledge that I had personally walked with our Savior that tragic day, and He had not left us to weep alone.” Another stated, “What I have gained a witness of for myself is that we have the power to call upon God in those times and through Him and His Son Jesus Christ, light can enter our lives and push the darkness out.”
Sister Susan Bednar spoke about following prophetic teachings regarding families. She said she has seen warnings from past church presidents about family disintegration come true over time: “Dear sisters, may we arise and shine forth now as women of light by teaching about, testifying of and defending the importance of families in God’s eternal plan.” She also encouraged compassionate ministering among church members.
The Church promotes eternal families through temple rites according to its official website. Temples serve as sacred venues for ordinances central to church doctrine according to its official website. The Church includes more than 17 million members across over 30,000 congregations worldwide according to its official website.
Leadership within The Church is provided by bodies such as the First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve Apostles who seek divine guidance according to its official website. Local congregations are managed by volunteer leaders serving without pay according to its official website. Central teachings emphasize Jesus Christ as Savior while inviting individuals toward faith practices including repentance and baptism according to its official website.
Elder Bednar concluded his remarks stating: “An eternal perspective grounded in the Father’s plan of happiness matters… Consistency in learning, doing, and loving small and simple spiritual things matters — all the time and everywhere.”
