Elder Soares, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, joins a nationwide youth devotional in Brazil, sharing his testimony and encouraging young people to focus on Jesus Christ.
In a powerful display of love and energy, Elder Ulisses Soares, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, joined a youth devotional in Brazil to inspire and uplift the young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Despite being unable to attend in person due to a funeral, Elder Soares connected remotely from the Church Administration Building in Salt Lake City. He spoke passionately about the Savior and His Atonement, emphasizing their central role in the plan of salvation.
A Divine Purpose in Turbulent Times
Elder Soares, having grown up as the only member of the Church in his neighborhood, shared his personal experiences and reassured the youth that they are on the earth for a divine purpose. He acknowledged the challenges they face in a turbulent world but expressed his belief that they have the power to change the destiny of the entire human family. Elder Soares encouraged them to focus their lives on the Savior, emphasizing that the spiritual strength gained from Jesus Christ will help them endure trials and move forward with faith.
Finding Hope Through Jesus Christ
Prior to the devotional, Elder Soares invited youth from across Brazil to submit videos explaining why they find hope through Jesus Christ. During the event, some of these videos were shared, showcasing the youth’s deep faith and the hope they find in Christ. They spoke of forgiveness, peace, overcoming challenges, serving ancestors, and the eternal nature of families. Elder Soares promised that by focusing on the Savior, they would receive the spiritual strength needed to navigate life’s trials.
“Stay in the Boat”
In honor of President M. Russell Ballard, Elder Soares shared a story about river rafting and how it relates to life and the gospel. He emphasized the importance of staying inside the boat, wearing a life vest, and holding on with both hands. Drawing parallels between the river and mortal life, Elder Soares likened the river guides to prophets and apostles who teach principles of spiritual survival and happiness. The boat symbolized the gospel, the life vest represented the words of the Lord found in scriptures and modern revelations, and holding on with both hands symbolized focusing constantly on Jesus Christ. Elder Soares emphasized the importance of trusting experienced guides, using agency wisely, and avoiding challenging situations.
Happiness and the Holy Ghost
Elder Joni L. Koch, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Church’s Brazil Area, spoke about the role of the Holy Ghost in bringing happiness. He emphasized that sin can hinder happiness, but through repentance and the Atonement of Jesus Christ, individuals can find happiness and be cleansed. Sister Michele Koch, Elder Koch’s wife, highlighted the transformative power of the gospel and the joy that comes from sharing it with others.
Conclusion: Elder Ulisses Soares’ participation in the youth devotional in Brazil left a lasting impact on the young members of the Church. His testimony of the Savior and His Atonement, coupled with personal experiences and insights, inspired the youth to embrace their divine purpose and find hope through Jesus Christ. The event served as a reminder of the power of faith, the importance of staying true to the gospel, and the joy that comes from sharing the message of Christ with others. As the youth of Brazil continue their journey, they are equipped with the knowledge and strength to navigate life’s challenges and make a positive impact on the world around them.
Leave a Reply