A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World
On Sunday, April 5, 2020, during the morning session of the 190th Annual General Conference, President Russell M. Nelson presented a proclamation in honor of the 200th anniversary of Joseph Smith’s First Vision. Titled “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: A Bicentennial Proclamation to the World,” this document outlines core Latter-day Saint beliefs. Click here to read the full text.
Solemn Assembly with Hosanna Shout
The Sunday morning session also included a worldwide Solemn Assembly with Hosanna Shout. The Hosanna Shout is a way for Latter-day Saints to give honor and praise to God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. The shout is a symbol of how the crowds reacted to Jesus during his triumphal entry into Jerusalem during the last week of His life. Click here to learn more.
Announcement of New Temples
In his closing remarks on Sunday afternoon, President Nelson announced plans to build eight new temples throughout the world, including in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This will be the Church’s first temple in the Middle East.
The Church’s New Symbol
The Church has a new symbol to identify the faith. President Nelson announced it and explained its significance Saturday evening, “[The symbol] portrays the resurrected, living Lord reaching out to embrace all who will come unto Him…This symbol should feel familiar to many, as we have long identified the restored gospel with the living, resurrected Christ.” Click here to learn more.
Call for Good Friday Fast for Relief from COVID-19
On Saturday, April 4, 2020, President Nelson called on everyone around the world to fast again for relief from COVID-19. The global fast will take place on Good Friday, April 10, 2020.
“Let us unite in pleading for healing throughout the world,” the Prophet said. “Good Friday would be the perfect day to have our Heavenly Father and His Son hear us! … Let us prayerfully plead … that the present pandemic may be controlled, caregivers protected, the economy strengthened, and life normalized.”