Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles urged young adults worldwide to act as "beacon lights" of hope and service during a global devotional held Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026. Speaking from the campus of Brigham Young University-Hawaii in Laie, Cook emphasized the necessity of being peacemakers and maintaining personal integrity to navigate a world marked by division.
Foundational Lessons
During the devotional, Cook shared three foundational experiences to illustrate his doctrinal message. He recalled a 1959 visit to Hawaii with student leaders, where President David O. McKay invited them to meet and share a message with the students at the newly created Church college. Cook also recalled a lesson from his time as a young missionary involving a sister missionary's demonstration regarding how the Savior and a loving Father in Heaven are prepared to bestow blessings, even when individuals are not prepared to receive them.
Lessons from History
Cook further reflected on his time living in San Francisco during the destabilizing events of the 1960s, describing the era as potentially "even more toxic" than the present day due to the drug culture in the Haight-Ashbury District, political assassinations, and anti-war riots. He recounted how he once asked a prominent Jewish friend, whose parent had experienced the Holocaust, how to avoid repeating such historical atrocities. The friend emphasized the importance of not hiding one's identity, noting the masked evil of the Ku Klux Klan in the earlier 1900s against Jews, Blacks, Catholics, and immigrants.
The Danger of Anonymity
A central theme of the address was the danger of anonymity. Cook warned against using anonymity to say unkind or cruel things about others, stating that such behavior is incompatible with being a light. He cautioned young adults against wearing a "false face," noting that seeking anonymity is a sign of danger and a tool used by the adversary. He illustrated this risk by referencing the mob that painted their faces while tarring and feathering the Prophet Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon, an event that resulted in the death of one of the Prophet's children.
The Call to Peacemaking
Cook also addressed the role of peacemaking in a period of strong global divisions. He noted that the ability to carry the message of the Restoration depends on the ability to be peacemakers and seek unity. He pointed to recent teachings on the subject from the late Church President Russell M. Nelson and current President Dallin H. Oaks. To be effective, Cook stated, leaders must be consistent and reliable, comparing a true disciple to a lighthouse or a candle in a dark room.
Broader Church Context
The devotional was part of a broader period of spiritual focus within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Earlier in the year, on Oct. 27, 2026, Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed BYU students to celebrate the Restoration. Additionally, on Oct. 31, 2026, Elder Gary E. Stevenson concluded a 10-day ministry assignment in the Church's Europe Central Area.
A Final Promise
Cook concluded his message by quoting the Book of Mormon, specifically Mosiah 2:41, which describes the blessed state of those who keep the commandments of God. He promised that those who remain faithful to the end will be received into heaven and dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness.
Social Media Reflections
The message from Cook was echoed by various Church leaders on social media throughout the month of November. On Nov. 10, 2026, Cook posted a clip of his address to his social media accounts, reinforcing the message that members must be peacemakers to be the light the Lord wants them to be.
