Unity of the Authorities and Temple Work

You cannot imagine, my brethren and sisters, how grateful I feel this morning to have one more privilege of meeting with you in general conference. I was very much delighted in listening to the remarks we have heard from our President, and I wish to testify, before you, to the truth of the same. President Smith has spoken of the unity of the First Presidency and the Apostles ; I testify to that also. We are united, and work together harmoniously in all matters pertaining to the interest and welfare of the Church of Christ on the earth. ¶

I appreciate the privilege of standing before you a few moments, and express my thanks and gratitude to God my eternal Father that He has lengthened out my days, that I am permitted to see this beautiful morning, and address this grand assemblage of Latter-day Saints. ¶

My desire and intention is to sustain and uphold my President in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the Church upon the earth. ¶

I feel very thankful, my brethren and sisters, for the gratifying reports that come to us concerning the progress of the work of the Lord throughout the world, where our missionaries are laboring. While the work is prospering in the world, I am very thankful to be able to say that the work of the Lord is also increasing and multiplying in His holy temples. This is a duty that is laid upon the Saints; the Lord requires that they shall minister in behalf of the dead, and it is astonishing sometimes to see the interest that is taken in regard to this matter. Our temples are frequently filled to overflowing, and this is a source of great pleasure to us. ¶

President Smith made a remark in relation to those who seek permission to do work for the dead who were unworthy. Such cases have arisen, and I have marveled that brethren and sisters do not exhibit better judgment — if I may be allowed to use that expression — than to seek the privileges of the house of the Lord for those who are not worthy. I have no doubt they feel anxious and desirous to do all they can for the salvation of their relatives ; but they should exercise wisdom in regard to these matters. ¶

I hope, my brethren and sisters, that we will all be united — that the Latter-day Saints throughout the world will all be as united as the authorities of the Church are at the present day, and that the Lord's work will continue to grow, and prosper, and multiply upon the earth. ¶

I feel to again express my gratitude to God, my eternal Father, for His goodness and mercies to me. He has lengthened out my days till I am now nearly eighty-six years of age, and I am thankful for the measure of health and strength I enjoy. My determination is, this morning, that I will stand by and uphold President Joseph F. Smith with all my might, mind, and strength ; that I shall keep the commandments of God, and that I and my house shall serve the Lord from this time henceforth and forever. This is my desire and prayer in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. ¶