President Dallin H. Oaks, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, concluded the Sunday afternoon session of the October 2026 general conference by inviting the public to attend the Salt Lake Temple Celebration on April 5, 2027. The event marks the first time the temple doors will open to the public since 1893, following extensive renovations.
Oaks Addresses Challenges and Joy
In his concluding remarks on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026, President Oaks addressed the challenges facing members. He noted that the messages of the conference and the Spirit of the Lord should inspire members to concentrate their worship and unite their testimonies on the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Father's plan for eternal joy. He offered blessings of peace and contentment for those serving the Lord during challenging times.
A Call to Follow Christ
President Oaks also encouraged the global audience to view the first episode of "Dedicate," a new series being released in multiple languages. While speaking during the Sunday morning session, President Oaks had previously emphasized that the way to overcome present or future concerns, doubts, or struggles is to draw closer to Jesus Christ.
Unity Through Covenants
The final session featured several members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke on the unifying nature of the faith. He stated that political views, culture, or personal interests do not unite members in the Savior's Church, but rather a love for God and neighbor and a commitment to covenants with Jesus Christ. He added that members join the Church to follow the Savior and walk that path together.
The Quest of a Lifetime
Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that receiving priesthood ordinances and entering sacred covenants are essential steps in a "quest of a lifetime" to align life with God's will. He noted that God promises supernal blessings to those who honor these covenants, including obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel.
Identity and Truth
Elder Gary E. Stevenson emphasized the importance of personal identity, telling the audience that Heavenly Father knows them personally. He stated that a person's most important identity is that God knows and loves them and that every individual has a purpose. Elder Clark G. Gilbert added that being a light is more effective than any pointed argument and that teaching truth with love should be the hallmark of disciples in the last days.
Messages from General Officers
Members of the Seventy and General Officers also shared messages during the session. Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, told the audience that while work on earth is different for every person, trusting God and Jesus Christ brings great joy. Elder Moisés Villanueva of the Seventy spoke regarding tithing, stating that living the law of tithing opens the windows of heaven to pour out blessings.
Preparing for the Second Coming | Conclusion
Additional messages from the Seventy included Elder Thabo Lebethoa, who said the answer to all life's struggles is Jesus Christ, and Elder Paul H. Sinclair, who said helping people one by one prepares the world for the Second Coming. Brother Gabriel W. Reid, Second Counselor in the Sunday School General Presidency, noted that the purpose of every lesson is for people to think about the Savior rather than the teacher.
