Revered by Latter-day Saints as their prophet, President Hinckley repeated the challenge he issued when the current First Presidency was installed in 1995: "... The time has come for us to stand a little taller, to lift our eyes and stretch our minds to a greater comprehension and understanding of the grand millennial mission of this, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is a season to be strong. It is a time to move forward without hesitation, knowing well the meaning, the breadth and the importance of our mission." His admonition to church members was a call to Christian living filled with service, consideration of others and devotion to following the commandments of the Lord.

Other speakers Saturday focused on gospel principles intrinsic to strengthening individuals and fostering church growth.

Elder Russell M. Nelson, of the Quorum of the Twelve, who recently suffered the loss of his wife of 59 years, Dantzel, used the occasion to remind Saints that the period of mortality is a time to prepare to meet God. Church teachings are replete with instruction for preparing individuals to prepare for death and the continuation of life in another sphere, he said.

Sister Coleen K. Menlove, who was succeed Saturday as general president of the Primary by Sister Lant, used her moments at the podium to make a plea for teaching children the saving principles of the gospel. "Children need the peace that comes from knowing they have a loving Heavenly Father, who sent his son, Jesus Christ, to bring light and hope into the world. It is up to us as adults to direct children to that peace and light."

Many of the priesthood session speakers had a note of urgency in addressing the males of the church, urging them to prepare to stand fast as the contest between good and evil escalates. " ... as we prepare for the final satanic battles in anticipation of the return of Christ to the earth, it is very important to know who is on the Lord's side. The Lord needs to know on whom he can rely," said Elder Robert C. Oaks of the Presidency of the Seventy.

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the First Quorum of the Seventy also warned young men to beware of the "evil behind smiling eyes. ... The choice between good and evil is at the very heart of our experience on earth." Some youth do not recognize the evil behind the eyes of some who appear to be friends, he said, and end up experiencing tragic consequences.

Church faithful from far and near enjoyed a pleasant spring day at congregating spots. The Paat family of Los Angeles, including Ed and Malyn and their children Alvin, Eric and Heidi, initially came from the Philippines and were delighted to be on Temple Square at the core of the church. Eric was still digesting President Packer's strong testimony of the Book of Mormon. Alvin had enjoyed all the morning speakers but was anticipating his favorite, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, who didn't speak until the evening priesthood meeting.

Mr. and Mrs. David Leonardson had fewer miles to travel from their home in Dubois, Idaho, but were enjoying the same sense of gathering with fellow Saints. Mrs. Leonardson said she would treasure Elder Nelson's tribute to his deceased wife as evidence of the "high regard and love for the women of the church."

Sessions will continue at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. today.

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E-mail: tvanleer@desnews.com