President Dallin H. Oaks urged members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to find peace and strength by turning to Jesus Christ during the October 2026 general conference. Speaking at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, the 94-year-old leader encouraged followers to act on gospel truths and maintain faith despite personal struggles or doubts.
Overcoming Doubt and Uncertainty
During the morning session on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026, President Oaks addressed the challenges of navigating uncertainty and the tension between evolving scientific understanding and religious teachings. He advised that overcoming such doubts is often a lengthy process involving the building of faith and increased humility.
The Path to Stronger Faith
President Oaks emphasized that strong faith requires more than just a desire to believe, stating it involves daily efforts through prayer and scriptural learning. He encouraged members to hold to the first article of faith—believing in God the Eternal Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost—and to trust in God's timing.
Restored Doctrine and Authority
The president also highlighted the importance of the Book of Mormon as a witness of God's love for all people. He testified that the Church holds the restored fulness of Christ's doctrine and authority, and he noted the belief that God will eventually bring forth inspired teachings to all nations, including revelations to the lost tribes of Israel.
Call to Spiritual Action
In his concluding remarks during the Sunday afternoon session on Oct. 4, 2026, President Oaks invited listeners to study and act upon the principles shared during the conference. He encouraged members to concentrate their worship and unite their testimonies on the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Father's plan.
Messages from Church Leaders
The Sunday morning session featured several other leaders. First Counselor Henry B. Eyring spoke regarding the blessing of being able to help others through their trials. Elder Neil L. Andersen discussed the spiritual courage required of disciples, while Elder Quentin L. Cook counseled on living lives of integrity and virtue along the covenant path.
Historical Context of Beliefs
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which was founded in New York State in 1830 with six members, has grown into the fourth largest church in the United States by independent estimates. The organization maintains distinctive beliefs that differentiate it from other Christian denominations, including the belief in a restoration of divine apostolic authority and the nature of the Godhead.
Global Conference Reach
The October 2026 general conference was broadcast worldwide in 70 languages. The event included sessions held at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, providing a platform for leaders to address the spiritual needs of the global membership.
