January 11—
Reveille at 6 a.m. again, as always, then from 7:30 to 9 a.m. the testimonies that didn’t get borne yesterday. Then President Tanner of the Western European Mission announced that 213 persons had borne testimony. After his remarks, Elder Hunter gave the most inspirational talk I’ve ever heard, by anybody. He taught us how callings come to those who are required to serve in high Church offices.
We‘d heard that Sister Donna Packer learned of her husband’s call as a General Authority from the television. Lest we think this odd or exceptional, Elder Hunter said that his own calling had been somewhat similar. The prophet had spoken with him a few minutes before the General Conference session where he would be sustained as an apostle. President McKay never did ask whether he would accept the office; he just said “The Lord has spoken; we’ll sustain you today. You’re going to enjoy this work and the brotherhood of your fellow-servants.”
Oscar A. Kirkham, moreover, wasn’t even in Utah when he was sustained. His wife was there, though, and sent a telegram to the Boy Scouts gathering where he was, to tell him what had happened. He immediately called President Grant, asking what his wife’s message meant. The President replied, “Don’t worry about it, but come see me when you get back to Salt Lake.” Sheesh!
|
