Moving forward: LDS leader reaches out, urges respect

President Thomas S. Monson issued an appeal Sunday for those who have left the LDS Church to come back, and for church members to respect people whose beliefs differ from theirs.

Speaking Sunday morning during the fourth session of the 178th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he said, "Change for the better can come to all. Over the years we have issued appeals to the less active, the offended, the critic, the transgressor — to come back. 'Come back and feast at the table of the Lord and taste again the sweet and satisfying fruits of fellowship with the Saints.'"

"We reach out to you in the pure love of Christ and express our desire to assist you and to welcome you into full fellowship."

It was his first address to the general church membership since he was announced as president on Feb. 4.

He also continued a theme that his predecessor, President Gordon B. Hinckley, emphasized: kindness to all.

President Monson encouraged Latter-day Saints to show kindness and respect for all people everywhere — including their own families. He said the Savior "went about doing good ... for God was with him. May we follow that perfect example."

"The world in which we live is filled with diversity. We can and should demonstrate respect toward those whose beliefs differ from ours."

He also expressed deep humility at finding himself in his present position, more than 44 years after he was sustained as an apostle in October 1963.

"I assure you that I was humbled by my call to the Twelve at that time. However, as I stand at this pulpit today, I address you from the absolute depths of humility. I feel very keenly my dependence upon the Lord."

He reflected on Saturday morning's solemn assembly, where he was sustained as the 16th president of the church by members worldwide. "As your hands were raised toward heaven, my heart was touched."

President Monson also acknowledged the 15 men who preceded him as church president. "I am grateful for the abiding legacy left by each one of these 15 men." He praised President Gordon B. Hinckley for his foresight and vision to construct the Conference Center, saying his predecessor was loved by all.

Sunday afternoon, he closed the fifth and final session of the conference by recalling details of a recent accident his wife suffered. The two will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in October, he said.