A Good Scout and Missionary

I humbly pray that the Lord will bless me as I attempt to express my appreciation for the high and holy calling which He has brought into my life. It may be surprising to you at this moment that I see my father's face and my mother's face. May God help me to be humble and worthy of the joy which might be theirs. ¶

I rejoice greatly in the more intimate association with the choicest group of men that I have ever known in my life; and in this country, in most of its states, and in many countries of Europe, through the kindness of the Lord, I have had conferences and association with our national and international great men. I was deeply impressed when I came to this calling. The word of it came to me in New York. I was in East Orange, attending service. I came back to New York, to the hotel, opened a telegram from my wife, which said: "Unanimously sustained as one of the General Authorities today. I wish you were home." I confess to you -- it may have been my weariness -- but the idea didn't strike me that it was myself. I didn't quite get it clear. I went and got a copy of the New York Times, went upstairs to my bed, turned on the night lamp and started to read. I said: "I believe I will read that telegram again." I read it again, and this time I realized what had happened. Then I did not read, nor did I sleep. ¶

When the First Presidency of the Church set me apart, I asked President Grant if he had any official word for me, any instruction. He said: "Yes, Oscar. Express yourself freely in council. Say what you have to say, freely, but when a decision is made, line up." I will tell you that those are words of wisdom. In my opinion that is democracy in its very essence. ¶

The First Presidency have asked me to keep my connections with the Boy Scout program. I shall attempt to do that. My special calling in the Church is with the Council of Seventy. I have learned to love these brethren already, and appreciate greatly their intimate association. I humbly pray that God will help me to be a good Scout, a good missionary. ¶

Before you again I express my humble appreciation. May God magnify me for the task. May I ever enjoy your sympathy and your blessing, as I am called to labor with you, I humbly pray, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. ¶