October

Soon after the end of World War II, the church sent Apostle Ezra Taft Benson to the devastated nations of Europe to reassure saints and to find ways to meet their needs. Travel was very difficult and uncertain. Following the spirit, Elder Benson and his companion were guided one step at a time, but their progress was slow. On one occasion, they were headed to Karlsruhe, Germany to make contact with the saints of that city. Once there they climbed piles of broken concrete and pushed by blasted walls down the streets until they heard in the distance people singing "Come, Come ye Saints." The people had come to a conference in a broken building, many with ragged clothes or bare feet. They had simply heard a rumor that an Apostle of God was coming to visit them, so they had called a meeting on that hope alone. They had been singing and sharing testimonies for over two hours, just hoping that Elder Benson would come, with no assurance that he would. It had been almost seven years since they lost contact with the Lord's anointed. Many tears of joy were shed as he addressed them. Afterwards, he stood at the door and everyone shook his hand as they left, many circling back to the end of the line for a second chance.

Elder Benson standing with his companions during his mission in Europe, around 1946. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson (2014), 56

Dear members of the 2nd Ward, what a blessing it is to live so near the apostles of God today, and to see and hear them every six months. Please take advantage of the ability to re-watch any talks you missed and to reread them again when they come out in print.

Bishop Merrill

📄  See the full PDF of Grapevine here.

🎤  Listen to sacrament meeting audio here.