In June 2023, as the Bentonville, Arkansas, Temple was opened for the public to “come and see,” we anticipated about 25,000 visitors for the two-week public open house. Instead, 52,700 people attended, and we witnessed God perform many miracles as this House of the Lord was dedicated and established. Missionaries and members found it easier to share the truths of the restored gospel with friends. In the months following the temple open house and dedication, missionary work continued an upward trajectory. As our service ended, the mission saw more convert baptisms than it had since its inception in 2015. We know that this work cannot be frustrated because Jesus Christ, the Lord of the vineyard, is leading this great latter-day gathering.

We saw missionaries’ faith grow, trusting that the Lord was guiding the work. As their faith increased, the Lord led them to His elect, and sometimes He led His elect to them. We repeatedly witnessed mighty changes in people’s lives when they submitted their will to God and strove to align their lives with His perfect plan. We saw the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ change their natures and bring joy as they exercised faith, repented, entered into sacred covenants, and endeavored to endure on the covenant path. When asked what is the most important thing I learned, my answer is this: understanding and sincerely striving to follow the doctrine of Christ brings the enabling power of His Atonement into our lives.

I bear witness that God, our Heavenly Father, lives and that He sent His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as our Savior and Redeemer. Christ’s life is the greatest evidence of God’s love for us. I testify that our Redeemer is the only source of true joy in this life, and that this joy comes from exercising faith in Him, making and striving to keep His covenants, and becoming deeply converted to Him. I testify that we are led by prophets today, and if we heed their counsel, we will be blessed. I pray for God’s work to increase throughout the earth and will strive to do my part. I am eternally grateful for the missionaries we served with. They are the Hope of Israel, and I have no concerns about the future leadership of this Church. These young people were reserved for this time to stand for truth and righteousness. I will do all I can to support them in their eternal responsibilities. I testify that the gospel of Jesus Christ is God’s perfect plan and bear witness to the truth of these things, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.