Elder Stevenson Urges Christlike Ministering to God's 'Precious Cargo'

LDS Apostle Calls for Renewed Determination to Care for Others During General Conference

Apr. 4, 2026 at 8:35pm

In his April 2026 general conference address, Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about the importance of ministering to others with Christlike love and care, likening God's children to 'precious cargo' that must be handled with reverence as they navigate the challenges of mortality.

Why it matters

Elder Stevenson's message emphasizes the fundamental LDS doctrine of caring for one another as disciples of Jesus Christ, particularly as the church focuses on strengthening families and preparing the rising generation to make sacred covenants.

The details

Elder Stevenson encouraged Latter-day Saints to view their ministering assignments as an opportunity to provide Christlike love and service, offer help and comfort, and seek the guidance of the Spirit to prepare families. He also called on members to nurture the youth by motivating, teaching, and encouraging them to receive Christ's name in their hearts and minds.

  • Elder Stevenson spoke during the Saturday afternoon session of the 196th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 4, 2026.

The players

Elder Gary E. Stevenson

A member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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What they’re saying

“In a reverent way, I wonder what it is like for a loving Heavenly Father to send His most precious belongings, His children, away from their heavenly home, knowing they must pass through challenges of mortality. I suppose His great comfort is knowing that they do not travel alone.”

— Elder Gary E. Stevenson, Apostle

“I invite you to implement small acts of kindness and care into your ministering, becoming better ministers of Jesus Christ.”

— Elder Gary E. Stevenson, Apostle

“As disciples of Jesus Christ, we rise with renewed determination to succor and care for those with whom we come in contact.”

— Elder Gary E. Stevenson, Apostle

The takeaway

Elder Stevenson's message emphasizes the fundamental LDS doctrine of caring for one another as disciples of Jesus Christ, particularly as the church focuses on strengthening families and preparing the rising generation to make sacred covenants. His call for renewed determination to minister to others with Christlike love and service is a timely reminder for Latter-day Saints to prioritize their duty to care for God's 'precious cargo' - His children.