Elder Quentin L. Cook closed the Saturday afternoon session and spoke concerning the hastening of family history and temple work today.
He said the “now what” in contemplation of life after death are the heart of the questions answered by the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.
Elder Cook reminded the members of the LDS Church of the analogy used in the scriptures of the tree with its roots and branches to represent families. He said all members of the church need to know their roots and branches in order to be saved
Elder Cook spoke about the importance of baptism in this life and how Christ was baptized to set the example. He then asked about the deceased who have not been baptized.
“Vicarious ordinances are at the heart of welding together eternal families, connecting roots to branches,” he said. “We need to be connected to both our roots and our branches. The thought of being associated in the eternal realm is indeed glorious.”
Elder Cook said the work is hastening in every part of the world and temples are being built across the world to provide access to the sealing ordinances to all members of the church.
Elder Cook said that in the past 50 years,130 temples have been dedicated and 28 more are announced. He said that 85 percent of church members live within 200 miles of a temple.
He went on to talk about the advancement of family history technology, that is now available to anyone with a computer and internet connection.
“Temple and family history work is not just about us,” he said. “Think of those on the other side of the veil waiting for the saving ordinances that would free them from the bondage of spirit prison.”
Elder Cook said family commitment and expectations should be our top priority to protect our divine destiny. He said that those looking to have a more productive Sabbath should turn to family history work.
“The eternally significant blessing of uniting our own families is almost beyond comprehension.”
