"Prophets help us keep focused," Elder Quentin B. Cook reminded Latter-day Saints at a conference of the Liverpool Stake on Sunday. Elder Cook and his wife, Mary, are meeting with missionaries, members, and Church and community leaders in Sydney, Christchurch, Auckland and Melbourne.
"Prophets are not just talking about what is happening today, but what is going to happen in the future," Elder cook pointed out. He reflected on the messages of the preceding four presidents of the Church and what subsequent global events proved their counsel a safety net to individuals and families.
He then reiterated the ongoing advice of current Church president, Thomas S. Monson — "follow the example of Jesus Christ, reach out to rescue others, and strengthen the family. These things are critical," urged Elder Cook.
His wife, Mary, told the congregation, "As we have religious observances in our homes, our families will be strengthened."
Elder and Sister Cook are accompanied by fellow Church leaders Elder Tad R. Callister of the Presidency of the Seventy, Bishop Keith B. McMullin of the Presiding Bishopric, and Elders James J. Hamula, Kevin W. Pearson and F. Michael Watson of the Pacific Area Presidency.
All the visiting brethren are travelling with their wives, whose remarks added a distinct perspective and charm to the meetings.
- Elder Cook greeted members after Liverpool Stake Conference
- 200 missionaries heard from Elder and Sister Cook
| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
On Sunday (15 January) the visiting Church leaders spoke at separate meetings in the Sydney suburbs of Baulkham Hills, Greenwich and Liverpool, and at a meeting for youth approaching missionary age.
Government and community leaders attending the Latter-day Saint meetings across the city included Hon David Clarke MLC and New South Wales Parliamentary Secretary for Justice, and Bryan Doyle, the State Member for Campbelltown.
Prior to the meeting Elder Cook met with Mr Clarke and Mr Doyle. He thanked them for running for office and for their efforts in strengthening and protecting the family. "We honour and appreciate those who try to establish good government," he said.
The Hon Mr Clarke accepted, on behalf of the Hon Barry O'Farrell MP, Premier of New South Wales, a copy of the King James Version of The Bible presented by Elder Cook. Last year Latter-day Saints and other Christians around the world marked the 400th anniversary of the book's first publication.
On Saturday Elder and Sister Cook spoke to 200 missionaries serving in the Sydney area. He encouraged them to "be the best missionaries you can possibly be."
"All that is near and dear to you will be blessed because you are serving this mission," Elder Cook went on to say. "This is the single most important thing you can do—it is a seminal experience in your life."
Before leaving Sydney, Elder Cook was interviewed by reporter Leesha McKenny of The Sydney Morning Herald.
The journalist was surprised to learn that members of The Council of the Twelve Apostles are called to that office from the rank and file members. At the end of the discussion, Leesha asked, "What would you like to leave as your legacy?"
"I would just hope," said Elder Cook quietly, "that when this is over and I meet the Saviour, He will be able to say, 'Well done.'"
Listen to Elder Cook's personal message on YouTube about being a witness for Jesus Christ here.