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From the grounds of the Washington D.C. Temple, Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed young adults worldwide, emphasizing that both the prophet and temple guide individuals toward Jesus Christ.
Elder Clark G. Gilbert, a General Authority Seventy and Church Commissioner of Education, introduced Elder Andersen and his wife, Kathy. The event featured music performed by a young adult choir with instrumental accompaniment.
Elder Andersen discussed how President Dallin H. Oaks’ teachings and temple worship can benefit young adults. “In a world of commotion, confusion and so many distractions, as the world slides from its spiritual moorings, the prophet and the temple keep us anchored to our spiritual foundation,” Elder Andersen said. “The Lord sends compensatory power to you, His disciples. Two of the greatest compensatory blessings for the righteous are the teachings of the prophets and the gifts of the house of the Lord.”
The remarks were recorded on October 18 and made available on November 2. During the broadcast, young adults from various countries shared greetings with President Oaks and his wife.
Sister Kathy Andersen expressed her admiration for Sister Kristen Oaks: “Sister Kristen Oaks is a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. Her life is so filled with faith and love. She is so tenderhearted, and I think she is a very sweet angel on earth.” A video clip was also shared in honor of Sister Oaks’ birthday: “Today is the birthday of my wonderful wife, Kristen. How I love her and how grateful I am for our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness for our families. Our relationship to God and the purpose of our mortal life are explained in terms of the family.”
Elder Andersen highlighted several themes from President Oaks’ recent messages:
On standing for truth:
“We live in perilous times when evil is being called good and good is being called evil (2 Nephi 15:20, Isaiah 5:20),” President Oaks said at Ensign College in 2022. “We must stand fast against the values and practices that draw us away from the Lord’s teachings and our covenants, privileges, and obligations. We can do this with love.” He reiterated at general conference in October 2024: “Following Christ is not a casual or occasional practice... It is a continuous commitment and way of life that should guide us at all times and in all places.”
A participant named Lindsay commented on these challenges but affirmed support through faith: “It can be hard, but you know you’re not alone... You have the Spirit... because you aren’t alone. You’re part of the greatest cause on earth, which is to be a disciple of Christ.”
On marriage, family, and children:
President Oaks stated during general conference in October 2025: “Our relationship to God and the purpose of our mortal life are explained in terms of family... The doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ centers on family.” At a worldwide devotional in May 2023 he added: “Marriage is central to...mortal life... But central to that gift [of creation] is ...the law that our powers be expressed only within marriage between a man and woman.”
Max expressed gratitude for prophetic counsel about prioritizing marriage; Nicole spoke about seeking guidance through prayer regarding balancing career ambitions with starting their family.
On revelation:
Elder Andersen recounted an experience originally shared by President Oaks involving personal safety guided by inspiration during an incident in Chicago—a story underscoring reliance on revelation even under threat.
Kelson reflected on this theme: “One thing I've loved about this story that President Oaks shared ...is how much personal revelation has been involved in his work...” Olivia described feeling spiritually at home while worshipping at temples.
Concluding their message near Washington D.C.’s Temple grounds, Elder Andersen praised President Oaks’ integrity—quoting scripture—and acknowledged decades-long mentorship since their association began at Brigham Young University.
“In my 32 years as a General Authority ...I have been blessed by his willingness to teach me... He has been prepared ...to lead us at this time,” Elder Andersen said.
He concluded by encouraging devotion among young adults: “We thank God that you are with us as we prepare for the Lord’s Second Coming,” he said.“The prophet and temple point us to Jesus Christ.... Along with ...His Spirit,the prophet & temple are two powerful compensatory blessings ...to separate good from evil,to understand our true purpose...,and truly become His disciples.”
