October 2025 Saturday Afternoon Session Talk Highlights and Summaries
Generational Growth and Spiritual Guidance Mark the 195th Semiannual General Conference
Church Membership Surges with New Converts Worldwide
Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles closed the Saturday afternoon session of the 195th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with a message of growth and unity. Over the last 36 months, the Church has welcomed nearly 900,000 new converts, representing about 5% of the Church’s total membership. The pace of conversions accelerated this year, especially in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America, where there was a more than 20% increase, and a notable 17% rise in North America.
Welcoming New Members into the Faith
Elder Cook emphasized the importance of accepting and integrating both new and returning members into the Church community. He reminded attendees that while the challenges of today may seem daunting, the Savior faced similar adversities during His time on earth. Elder Cook assured members that following the teachings of Christ, despite the tribulations, remains vital. He highlighted the continued guidance provided by living prophets, announcing that President Dallin H. Oaks will uphold this spiritual legacy.
The Family: A Proclamation to the World Celebrates 30 Years
Elder Ronald A. Rasband, also of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, dedicated his talk to discussing “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” marking its 30th anniversary. He stressed the universal nature of family, defining it as a divine unit to which all belong, encompassing various familial roles. Rasband reiterated that each individual is a beloved spirit child with a divine nature and destiny, reinforcing that the Proclamation remains an essential doctrine.
Messages of Inclusion and Hope
Elder Gerrit W. Gong invited Church members to foster communities of forgiveness and understanding. He encouraged openness and compassion for those who may feel ostracized, reminding everyone that Christ’s love and forgiveness are always available. Through Church ordinances and covenants, individuals are invited to experience love, service, and healing.
Diligent Learning and Worship
Brother Chad H. Webb emphasized the importance of being diligent learners aided by the Holy Ghost, a perfect tutor in understanding the gospel. Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi extended an invitation to worship at sacred altars, symbolizing unity with the Savior.
Core Doctrinal Truths and Personal Revelation
Elder Kevin G. Brown focused his message on foundational truths of the Restoration: understanding God as a loving Heavenly Father, valuing agency or the power to choose, and the testimony that comes through the Holy Ghost. He explained how personal revelation can occur in different ways, such as suddenly, gradually, or in glimpses of understanding.
Simple Doctrine as a Source of Joy
Elder Michael Cziesla encouraged the application of pure and uncomplicated doctrine to find daily joy and answers to life’s challenges. He emphasized that adhering closely to the doctrine of Christ provides strength and clarity in facing life’s greatest trials.
Music and Prayers Illuminate the Conference
The spiritual ambiance of the conference was enriched by a combined institute choir from Ogden and South Jordan, Utah, led by Alan Saunders and Alan Sackett, accompanied by organists Joseph Peeples and Linda Margetts. Prayers were offered by Elder Christophe G. Giraud-Carrier, General Authority Seventy, and Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman, enveloping the gathering in unity and faith.
