General Conference: Before, During, and After

By Becky Squire

General Conference is a sacred opportunity to receive revelation, strengthen our testimony, and draw closer to Jesus Christ. By preparing beforehand, actively engaging during, and applying what we learn afterward, we can make this semiannual event a powerful source of spiritual renewal. Here’s how to make the most of it!

Before General Conference: Preparing Spiritually and Practically

Preparation is key to receiving personal revelation during General Conference. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

1. Pray with Purpose – Ask Heavenly Father to help you receive answers to your questions and guidance in your life. Pray for the speakers, that their messages will be inspired and impactful.

2. Prepare Spiritually – Study past conference talks, particularly those given by the prophet and apostles. Reviewing previous messages will give you a foundation for new revelation.

3. Write Down Questions – Take time to ponder and list personal questions you hope to receive answers for. These can be about your family, career, spiritual growth, or other concerns.

4. Plan Your Schedule – Set aside uninterrupted time to watch or listen to the sessions. Create an inviting environment free from distractions to focus on the messages.

5. Involve Your Family – Teach children and teenagers the significance of General Conference. Plan activities like coloring pages, note-taking challenges, or bingo to keep them engaged.

During General Conference: Engaging with the Messages

Once conference begins, it’s essential to be present—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Here are some ways to maximize your experience:

1. Listen with an Open Heart – Approach each talk with faith that it holds something meant for you, even if it doesn’t directly address your questions.

2. Take Notes – Write down key insights, scriptures, or phrases that stand out. Instead of transcribing everything, focus on what the Spirit impresses upon you.

3. Look for Patterns – Pay attention to recurring themes throughout the talks. Often, the Lord emphasizes certain principles through multiple speakers.

4. Engage in Discussion – If watching with family or friends, briefly share impressions between sessions. This helps reinforce understanding and allows for collective insights.

5. Sing the Hymns – Participating in the music invites the Spirit and enhances your focus. Hymns often contain doctrine that complements the messages given.

After General Conference: Applying and Acting on Revelation

Learning is only the first step—application brings true transformation. Here’s how to make conference teachings a lasting influence in your life:

1. Review Your Notes – Go over what you wrote and highlight impressions or action items that stood out.

2. Set Goals – Identify specific actions based on what you learned. Whether it’s improving your prayers, ministering to others, or deepening scripture study, set realistic goals to implement change.

3. Revisit the Talks – Reread or listen to conference talks again over the next six months. The Church’s website and Gospel Library app make it easy to study and share them.

4. Teach Others – Share insights with your family, friends, or Church classes. Teaching reinforces learning and helps others benefit from what you’ve received.

5. Act on Personal Revelation – If you felt prompted to make a change, serve someone, or seek an answer, follow through. Acting on revelation brings more light and truth into your life.

General Conference is a profound opportunity to hear the Lord’s voice through His servants. By preparing, engaging, and applying what we learn, we turn these inspired messages into lasting spiritual growth. As we act in faith, we will experience the promised blessings of peace, guidance, and personal revelation.