Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
Every year, during the first weekend of April and October, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gather around the world to listen to inspired messages from their leaders. General Conference — a two-day, time-honored Church tradition — is something most Church members eagerly look forward to because the talks often speak directly to their hearts and carry some form of counsel or encouragement they desperately need.
While every conference talk has its value and will resonate with different people, some talks seem to stick out for their relevance and long-lasting impact. Below, you'll find a list of eight particularly memorable talks from the past few decades that are always worth revisiting.
If one of your favorites isn't mentioned here, don't worry — this list is far from comprehensive. With thousands of conference talks in the Church's archives, there's not enough time to possibly highlight all of them!
'Beware of Pride' by Ezra Taft Benson
One of the most well-known and frequently quoted talks in modern Church history is "Beware of Pride" by Ezra Taft Benson, who was serving as President of the Church at the time. Because Benson was in poor health, President Gordon B. Hinckley, then a member of the First Presidency, delivered the address for him.
This talk serves as a powerful reminder — and warning — of the effects of pride and how it can damage your relationship with God and others.
"We can choose to humble ourselves by loving God, submitting our will to His, and putting Him first in our lives," Benson said.
'The Purifying Power of Gethsemane' by Bruce R. McConkie
Few talks resonate more than "The Purifying Power of Gethsemane" by Bruce R. McConkie. In this deeply moving address, McConkie, who was battling cancer, shares a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ, stating, "[I]n a coming day I shall feel the nail marks in his hands and in his feet and shall wet his feet with my tears. But I shall not know any better then than I know now that he is God's Almighty Son, that he is our Savior and Redeemer…"
Just two weeks after delivering this final talk, McConkie passed away, but his heartfelt testimony continues to touch and inspire those who reflect on his words.
'Sunday Will Come' by Joseph B. Wirthlin
Here's a good one when you need a little encouragement during difficult times.
In his talk "Sunday Will Come," Joseph B. Wirthlin shares his heartfelt reflections on love, loss and the hope found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He assures listeners that, despite life's darkest moments, the promise of eternal reunion and joy awaits. After every sorrowful Friday, a brighter Sunday is ahead.
"No matter our desperation, no matter our grief, Sunday will come," Wirthlin said.
'Like a Broken Vessel' by Jeffrey R. Holland
Jeffrey R. Holland is a beloved conference speaker, and his talk "Like a Broken Vessel," is notable for openly addressing mental health concerns. Holland reassures those struggling with depression that God's love is unwavering and encourages seeking both spiritual and professional help. He emphasizes that, despite life's severe trials, healing and hope are always possible through faith in Jesus Christ.
"Though we may feel we are 'like a broken vessel,' we must remember that vessel is in the hands of the divine potter," he said.
'Peacemakers Wanted' by Russell M. Nelson
Though it's hard to choose just one talk from Church president Russell M. Nelson, "Peacemakers Wanted" seems particularly relevant these days. In this talk, he urges everyone to choose reconciliation over contention, emphasizing that true disciples of Christ exemplify love and compassion in their interactions. He highlights that charity is essential for fostering peace in a polarized world.
"Contention is a choice. Peacemaking is a choice. You have your agency to choose contention or reconciliation," he said.
'Of Things That Matter Most' by Dieter F. Uchtdorf
In "Of Things That Matter Most," Dieter F. Uchtdorf emphasizes the importance of slowing down amidst life's chaos to focus on fundamental relationships with God, family, fellowman and oneself. He encourages prioritizing these essential connections over the distractions of modern life to find true joy and fulfillment.
"Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light," Uchtdorf said.
'Good, Better, Best' by Dallin H. Oaks
Another highly relevant talk is "Good, Better, Best" by Dallin H. Oaks. Oaks encourages individuals to recognize that while many activities may be good, only a select few are truly better or best, urging all to seek the things that strengthen their faith and families.
"We have to forego some good things in order to choose others that are better or best because they develop faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strengthen our families," he said.
'Are We Not All Mothers?' by Sheri Dew
In a church that emphasizes marriage and family, Sheri Dew's groundbreaking talk, "Are We Not All Mothers?" taught that motherhood goes beyond biological relationships. She taught that all women have a divine calling to love and lead and urged them to embrace their ability to influence and guide the next generation.
"Motherhood is more than bearing children; it is the essence of who we are as women," she said.
