Elder Patrick Kearon
Elder Kearon shares how the gospel of Jesus Christ brings profound joy. He invites all to see The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a “church of joy,” rooted in Christ’s redeeming love and plan of salvation. By participating in sacred ordinances, especially the sacrament, and fostering joyful reverence, members can create an uplifting spiritual environment. Kearon emphasizes that through Christ’s Atonement, we find reasons to rejoice, regardless of life’s difficulties.
The Church of Joy
The foundation of the Church is built on Christ’s Atonement, which enables members to find lasting joy, even amid trials. Elder Kearon explains that, as followers of Christ, we have every reason to rejoice, particularly in sacred gatherings like sacrament meetings. He encourages us to focus on cultivating a collective sense of joy during worship.
“Because of the redeeming life and mission of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, we can—and should—be the most joyful people on earth!”
Scriptural references for further study:
- John 16:33: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
- Mosiah 2:41: “Consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God.”
Joyful Reverence
Elder Kearon introduces the concept of “joyful reverence” during sacred worship, emphasizing that reverence is not about somber quietness but heartfelt joy in recognizing Christ’s love. This reverence should be a deep expression of our joy and gratitude for the Savior’s Atonement, transforming our sacrament meetings into uplifting experiences.
“In [His] presence is fulness of joy!”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Psalm 16:11: “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 59:9: “And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day.”
Attending versus Worshipping
Elder Kearon explains the difference between merely attending sacrament meetings and truly worshipping. Worship, he teaches, is an active process where members participate with intent, striving to feel the transforming power of Christ’s love. This shift from passive attendance to active worship deepens spiritual experiences.
“To worship is to intentionally praise and adore our God in a way that transforms us!”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Moroni 6:6: “And they did meet together oft to partake of bread and wine, in remembrance of the Lord Jesus.”
- Matthew 15:8-9: “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.”
The Power of the Sacrament
The sacrament is central to our worship, reminding us of the Savior’s sacrifice and enabling us to renew our covenants. Elder Kearon highlights that the sacrament provides both solemn reflection and moments of joy, as it allows us to experience Christ’s Atonement anew each week, fostering gratitude and hope.
“We may feel to reflect on the sacrifice of the Saviour, His agonies in Gethsemane, His anguish on the cross, and the sorrows and pains He endured on our behalf.”
Scriptural references for further study:
- Luke 22:19-20: “This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 20:77: “O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it.”
Calls to Action:
- Cultivate joy during worship, particularly in sacrament meetings.
- Strive for “joyful reverence” by remembering Christ’s love and Atonement.
- Focus on active worship, not mere attendance, each Sabbath.
- Reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and experience His joy through the sacrament.