With twinkling lights outside on Temple Square and brightly decorated Christmas trees inside the Conference Center, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ushered in the Christmas season with joyful messages of the Savior’s birth during the First Presidency’s Christmas Devotional on Sunday, Dec. 3.
President Russell M. Nelson — who attended in the Conference Center — testified in his prerecorded remarks of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He invited everyone to begin a season of even greater personal worship, to “live in the spirit of ‘hallelujah’” and ever praise the Lord.
“At this glorious Christmas season, come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord,” President Nelson said.
Other speakers during the devotional were Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder Paul V. Johnson of the Presidency of the Seventy and Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency.
Summaries of their messages are listed below:
President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, conducted the devotional. He extended greetings and Christmas wishes from the First Presidency.
“We are grateful to be with you and to reflect upon the birth, life and mission of our Savior, Jesus Christ,” said President Oaks in the devotional that was broadcast live from the Conference Center.
“As we enter this sacred season, we pray that you will be blessed with peace in your hearts and love for those around you.”
Elder James W. McConkie III, General Authority Seventy, offered the opening prayer. The closing prayer was given by Young Men General President Steven J. Lund. Music was provided by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.
View the devotional on demand and find previous devotionals
The video is on YouTube on the “Inspiration from the Church of Jesus Christ” channel. Video and audio recordings of the devotional will be archived for on-demand viewing in the Gospel Library and the Gospel Stream app under Christmas devotionals. Video and audio recordings in most languages, as well as text in English, Spanish and Portuguese are expected to be available in about a week.
Previous Christmas devotionals can also be found at those locations. Find Church News coverage of past devotionals at thechurchnews.com/christmas-devotional.
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