Church Leaders Urge Faithful to Draw Near to Jesus Christ

SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its 195th Annual General Conference on April 5, 2025, encouraging members to strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ through faith and service.

President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency, opened the first session with a personal reflection on a significant sacrament meeting he attended over 75 years ago. He expressed how the spirit filled the chapel as the congregation sang the hymn *Abide with Me; ’Tis Eventide*. “I felt the Savior’s love and closeness that evening through the comfort of the Holy Ghost,” he recalled.

In his address, President Eyring shared the Savior’s invitation from the Book of Mormon to “Draw near unto me, and I will draw near unto you.” He illustrated the concept of building a relationship with Christ, likening it to nurturing a friendship. “The more communication you have with Him, and the more you serve others, the closer you will feel to Him,” he said.

Eyring emphasized that Jesus Christ loves each person and offers opportunities for connection, stating, “You will come to know the Savior, and in time, you will come to be like Him.” He encouraged congregants to always remember Him, engage in diligent scripture study, and maintain heartfelt prayers.

He also addressed individuals with loved ones who have strayed from the faith, assuring them that serving Christ can lead to divine assistance. “You can depend on the Lord to draw closer to them as you serve Him with faith,” he stated.

Other speakers echoed similar themes of faith and service. Elder Ricardo P. Giménez, a general authority seventy, encouraged members to connect their actions, such as scripture reading and prayer, with their love for the Savior. “When we link everything we do with our love for the Savior, we will gain a deeper understanding,” he said.

During the morning session, Elder Quentin L. Cook reflected on the resilience displayed by early church pioneers and emphasized that the Atonement of Jesus Christ offers a pathway through life’s challenges. He stated, “The Father’s plan of happiness is based on the Savior’s atoning rescue.”

Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson addressed themes of healing and wholeness in faith, encouraging members to remain hopeful while awaiting physical and emotional recovery. “I can be whole while I wait for healing if I am wholehearted in my relationship with Him,” she urged.

President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, reaffirmed the beauty of childlike faith, calling it essential in the pursuit of a closer relationship with God. “Is there anything sweeter, more pure, or more humble than a child at prayer?” he asked.

As the conference unfolded, it became clear that themes of drawing closer to Jesus, understanding His love, and serving others were interwoven throughout the messages. The uplifting messages were amplified by the music of The Tabernacle Choir and a strong spirit of community among attendees, both in person and virtually.

The conference will continue on April 6, offering further insights and teachings centered on faith and devotion to Jesus Christ.