Members in Japan uplifted by apostle's visit

Church News

Members in Japan uplifted by apostle's visit

Published: Saturday, May 23, 2009

Hundreds of members, friends and missionaries attended meetings throughout Japan as Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve addressed a variety of topics during a visit to that country. Elder Bednar visited Japan April 21-27 after having made a similar trip to Taiwan the previous week. (Please see Church News, April 25).

Photo by Elder David Robertson

Church members from the Naha Japan Stake and the Ginowan Japan Stake present music especially prepared for a devotional at which Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve spoke.

Elder Bednar and his wife, Susan, spoke at meetings in Tokyo and Hokkaido, and also met with missionaries. Accompanied by Elder David F. Evans, president of the Asia North Area, and his wife, Mary, Elder and Sister Bednar went to Okinawa; there they met with members in the U.S. military district and also with Japanese members.

Photo by Elder David Robertson

In Tokyo, Elder David A. Bednar listens intently as a question asked by young Jacob Hansen is translated by Henry Savstrom for the Japanese attendees.

Elder Merrill Dimick, a senior missionary serving in Tokyo, commented, "Elder Bednar taught us many principles of the gospel by answering questions from the congregation. He talked about the differences in the cultures of America and Japan and other parts of the world but told us we have a culture in common and that is the gospel culture, which unites us as one."

Photo by Elder David Robertson

In a filled-to-capacity hall in Naha, Okinawa, Japan, members and guests listen as Elder David A. Bednar responds to questions.

After returning to Salt Lake City, Elder Bednar said, "Sister Bednar and I were blessed to visit Japan again on assignment. My faith in the Savior was strengthened as I witnessed the consecrated devotion of the Japanese Saints. The manner in which they honor their covenants and serve others is both inspiring and worthy of emulation."

© 2009 Deseret News Publishing Company