During remarks Sunday morning, President Monson outlined several examples of what Smith taught and the church continues to teach: faith, courage, honesty, patience and love.

"May we incorporate into our own lives the divine principles which he so beautifully taught — by example — that we, ourselves, might live more completely the gospel of Jesus Christ," President Monson said. "May our lives reflect the knowledge we have that God lives, that Jesus Christ is his son, that Joseph Smith was a prophet and that we are led today by another prophet of God — even President Gordon B. Hinckley."

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve also spoke of Joseph Smith, restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and what is known by members of the church as the Plan of Salvation. The Book of Mormon provides a tangible witness to "establish the truth" of the restoration, he said.

While foundational doctrines of the church are still in force and offer permanent guidance, President Boyd K. Packer, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve, said constant revelation still occurs.

"Every soul who willingly affiliates with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and seeks to abide by its principles and ordinances is standing 'on Zion's hill,' " he said. "Each can receive assurance which comes through inspiration and testifies that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is just as he declared it to be, 'the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth.' "

Church members were also encouraged to abide by universal principles of forgiveness and scripture study, of faith in Jesus Christ, prayer and service.

Earlier this year, members of the church were asked to read the Book of Mormon before the end of the year. "When we read the scriptures, we are hearing the voice of the Savior," said Sister Cheryl C. Lant, Primary general president.

But faith, diligence and sacrifice are not always easy, said Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve. "Through times good and bad, the Lord expects each of us to endure to the end," he said. "It often requires sacrifices, and we will likely experience some adversity. But in serving him, we discover that his hand is truly over us."

Said Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve, whose wife died unexpectedly in February, "I recognize that, on occasion, some of our most fervent prayers may seem to go unanswered. We wonder, 'Why?' I know that feeling! I know the fears and tears of such moments. But I also know that our prayers are never ignored. Our faith is never unappreciated."