I have felt an urgency to counsel each of us to seek the higher ground---the refuge and eternal protection of the temple.
Quentin L. CookYouth who have been exposed to immoral images at a very early age are terrified that they may have already disqualified themselves for missionary service and sacred covenants. ... I want to assure you young people [that] through repentance you can qualify for all the blessings of heaven. That is what the Saviorโs Atonement is all about.
Quentin L. CookOur women are not incredible because they have managed to avoid the difficulties of lifeโquite the opposite. They are incredible because of the way they face the trials of life. Despite the challenges and tests life has to offerโfrom marriage or lack of marriage, childrenโs choices, poor health, lack of opportunities, and many other problemsโthey remain remarkably strong and immovable and true to the faith. Our sisters throughout the Church consistently โsuccor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.
Quentin L. CookIf the grim realities you are facing at this time seem dark and heavy and almost unbearable, remember that in the soul-wrenching darkness of Gethsemane and the incomprehensible torture and pain of Calvary, the Savior accomplished the Atonement, which resolves the most terrible burdens that can occur in this life. He did it for you, and He did it for me. He did it because He loves us and because He obeys and loves His Father. We will be rescued from death-even from the depths of the sea.
Quentin L. CookParents must have the courage to say no, to defend truth, and to bear powerful testimony.
Quentin L. CookOur doctrinal obligation is to our own ancestors. This is because the celestial organization of heaven is based on families. The First Presidency has encouraged members, especially youth and young single adults, to emphasize family history work and ordinances for their own family names or the names of ancestors of their ward and stake members. We need to be connected to both our roots and branches. The thought of being associated in the eternal realm is indeed glorious.
Quentin L. Cook