President Monsons Decade of Declaration and Reservation

Posted on October 19, 2015 by TruthIsReason

Summary
Over the last decade, President Monson has delivered 79 talks and 14 temple dedicatory prayers on the record,
totaling over 160,000 words. In them, he has borne as many as 114 testimonies (50 of which can be debated) per the
Churchs most in-depth definition of a testimony. These statements are all presented herein along with the
methodology used to collect them. While they affirm beliefs in a wide range of gospel topics, at least two major topics
are notably missing Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. Thus testimonies of Mormonisms most fundamental
unique doctrines cannot be found within Monsons remarks from the last decade even though such are required by
prophetic declarations, Church publications, and well established LDS norms.

Introduction
Anyone who has spent a month or more in the LDS Church knows that testimony bearing is no small part of it. Talks
and lessons are all expected to end with a testimony of ones closest religious convictions, and a monthly meeting is
even devoted to the task. The idea is that testimonies are a prime medium through which faith in the church and its
doctrines is formed, solidified, and transmitted. Testifying is an act so crucial that it is rewarded with divine
blessings and even forgiveness of sin (D&C 62:3) while failure to perform it kindles Gods wrath and invites his
punishments (D&C 60:2-3). In D&C 62:3, we read
Nevertheless, ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the
angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you.
Thus according to Mormon scripture, God himself is monitoring the testimonies that we bear or fail to bear and even
his angels are tuning in (see also Job 16:19). Surely there are good reasons for their intense interest in how we
declare our beliefs, so perhaps we should follow their example and take a similar interest in the testimonies we hear
and do not hear from those whose views matter to us. After all, since testimonies affirm ones most fervent beliefs, it
stands to reason that they can provide a window of sorts into a persons mind and heart and reveal not only what
they believe, but what they value and contemplate most earnestly. While we cant hear or read every testimony
uttered, we can at least study the most important ones those spoken by Gods living mouthpiece and special
witness, Thomas S. Monson.

What Is a Testimony?
Before we can do this, however, we need to make sure we understand what exactly a testimony is. The most detailed
definition that the church has given is found in the What Is a Testimony? section of the chapter Teaching with
Testimony in the manual Teaching, No Greater Call: A Resource Guide for Gospel Teaching, Part B [1999]. According
to the beginning of the manual, it is to be used by all who teach the gospel, including: parents, classroom teachers,
priesthood and auxiliary leaders, home teachers and visiting teachers, so it is an important and widely used manual.
Note that I did not add the italics but left everything as is.

What Is a Testimony?
It is important to understand what a testimony is and what a testimony is not. First, it is not an
exhortation, a call to repentance, a travelogue, a sermon, or an instruction. It is a simple, direct
declaration of beliefa feeling, an assurance, a conviction. It is usually stated in the first person, I,
followed by a strong verb expressing belief, such as I know that , I testify that , I bear testimony
that , or I have a strong assurance that You probably have heard special witnesses of Jesus
Christ use the words I give you my witness that or I witness that Testimonies are often most
powerful when they are short, concise, and direct.
Consider the following examples from the scriptures. Note that these testimonies appear in the context
of other messagesat the beginning, in the middle, or at the end.
This is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right
hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Fatherthat by
him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are
begotten sons and daughters unto God (D&C 76:2224; italics added).
I know of myself that whatsoever I shall say unto you, concerning that which is to come, is true; and I
say unto you, that I know that Jesus Christ shall come, yea, the Son, the Only Begotten of the Father, full
of grace, and mercy, and truth (Alma 5:48; italics added).
And now, behold, I will testify unto you of myself that these things are true. Behold, I say unto you, that
I do know that Christ shall come among the children of men, to take upon him the transgressions of his
people, and that he shall atone for the sins of the world; for the Lord God hath spoken it (Alma 34:8;
italics added).
For I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their
troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day (Alma 36:3; italics added).
Other examples are found in Jacob 7:12, Alma 7:8 and Alma 36:30, and Joseph SmithHistory 1:25.
While were at it, lets look at those other examples listed at the end, adding italics to the same types of words:
I know if there should be no atonement made all mankind must be lost (Jacob 7:12).
this much I do know, that the Lord God hath power to do all things which are according to his word
(Alma 7:8).
ye ought to know as I do know, that inasmuch as ye shall keep the commandments of God ye shall
prosper in the land (Alma 36:30).
For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it (JS-H 1:25).
To summarize, this segment of the manual explains that, in this church, a testimony is a direct declaration of
belief", meaning that the state of belief in an idea not the idea itself is the thing to be declared. This draws a
distinction between 1) assertions of an idea that seem to imply belief in it and 2) testimonies, which directly declare
that belief. For example, saying Ares is the god of war might seem to imply something about my beliefs on Ares,
depending on the context. But if I say I know that Ares is the god of war, I explicitly state my belief in the notion and
therefore testify of it.
While this manual was published in 1999, its still the current version, and its not the only manual that gives this
definition. Preach My Gospel [2004] contains it as well (p. 198):
A testimony is a spiritual witness and assurance given by the Holy Ghost. To bear testimony is to give a
simple, direct declaration of beliefa feeling, an assurance, a conviction of gospel truth.
In addition, the Missionary Preparation Student Manual [2005] gives the definition in two places (p. 35 and p. 48),
and Come, Follow Me: Sunday School 2014 also includes it (p. 91). Even Friend, the church magazine for kids,
encouraged readers in 2008 to use phrases like I testify that or I know that when bearing testimony.

Methodology
Now that were clear on what a testimony is (perhaps more clear than you ever wanted to be), we can see that the
easiest way to identify one is by looking for phrases that declare belief, which Ill refer to as testimony language.

Therefore, in order to find all testimonies Monson has borne over the last decade, I simply compiled his talks into a
single document, made a list of all the terms we might expect to find within testimony language (I know, I believe,
I have, my testimony, etc.), and searched the document for these terms. Rather than try to do this manually, I
wrote a script that automated the process to help make sure I didnt miss anything and to make the process
repeatable and configurable. The script generated a list of 510 candidate statements that I was then able to inspect
and categorize. The script, list of terms, compiled talks, and relevant spreadsheets can be downloaded here.

Results
Of these candidate statements, there were 114 that could be considered actual testimonies based on the churchs
definition. I categorized 64 of these as non-debatable and 50 of them as debatable and also identified an additional
23 as quoted:

Non-debatable Almost certainly meet the testimony criteria

Debatable Might qualify as testimonies based on a strict reading of the words spoken but 1) are relatively
casual statements rather than declarations and/or 2) use testimony language more as a colloquialism than a
way of expressing conviction, in my judgment
Quoted Fall into either of the above categories but either were said by someone else (and quoted by
Monson) or hypothetically will be said by the listeners (if they heed Monsons counsel)

Included at the end of this paper are three tables one for each category that allow you to see all of the testimonies
along with when and where they were borne: in General Conference (GC), a BYU Devotional (BYU), or a CES Fireside
(CES). Just as the first manual we quoted above italicizes the testimony language found in each of its example
testimonies, I have bolded that language in the tables. Note that no testimonies were found in any of the temple
dedicatory prayers Monson has offered over the last decade (which isnt surprising since public prayers dont
usually contain personal testimonies).
As you read (or skim) through these tables, youll notice that Monsons testimonies affirm belief in a wide range of
doctrines that include the divinity of Christ, the reality of God the Father, the value of prayer, the afterlife, the
inspiration behind certain church programs, eternal marriage, blessings for keeping the commandments,
consequences for breaking them, and so on. You may also notice that, surprisingly (perhaps shockingly), this list
does not include Joseph Smiths prophetic calling or the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.
If you arent sure why this should be surprising, start taking notes on the testimonies you hear in sacrament meeting
talks each Sunday. If you start hearing talks that include neither Joseph Smith nor the Book of Mormon, see how
many times this happens consecutively until you hear one that breaks the streak. If you do this and ever make it to
10, Id like to hear about it. If you ever make it to 79, however, Ill consider it to be on par with a lottery win. Id
wager that even if someone in every American LDS ward started keeping such a testimony journal, none of them
would make it to 79 in the next decade. Now whether thats true or not, the point is that testifying of Joseph Smith
and/or the Book of Mormon is a staple of LDS tradition. If youre Mormon and dont like hearing or bearing such
testimonies, you might be in the wrong church!

Practically a Commandment
As it turns out, firmly established cultural norms arent the only reasons to be surprised by Monsons lack of
testimony bearing on these subjects. Perhaps more important is the fact that declaring such beliefs is explicitly
required by a plethora of prophetic statements and official church publications. For example, while serving as the
prophet, Howard W. Hunter proclaimed
We, like the early Saints, believe and testify, as the first pillar of our faith, that the Prophet Joseph
Smith did indeed see the Father and the Son in the grove of trees in the spring of 1820
We share, with our early brothers and sisters, a witness and testimony of the Book of Mormon,
Another Testament of Jesus Christ. This represents the second pillar of our faith. (The Pillars of
Our Faith, Ensign, Sep. 1994)
Elder Bruce R. McConkie wrote that one of the
Three great truths [that] must be included in every valid testimony [is] that Joseph Smith is the
Prophet of God through whom the gospel was restored in this dispensation... (Mormon Doctrine, 2nd
ed. [1966], p. 786)
McConkie first wrote this while serving in the First Council of the Seventy in 1958, but later published a second
edition of the book in 1966 and a modified second edition as an apostle in 1978, and these newer editions each
contain this passage. We can also find it quoted in two newer official church manuals Doctrine and Covenants
Instructors Guide: Religion 324-325, [1981] (p. 52) and The Latter-day Saint Woman: Basic Manual for Women, Part A
[2000] (p. 37). A similar statement later came from James E. Faust of the First Presidency, who wrote in the Ensign
that one of the
four absolutes about which it is always appropriate to testify is that Joseph Smith was a prophet
of God and reestablished the Church of Christ upon the earth with its keys and authority. (The
Importance of Bearing Testimony, Ensign, Mar. 1997)
Even more recently, another official church magazine said that There are essential parts to a testimony, one of
which is:
I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. He restored the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth and
translated the Book of Mormon by the power of God. (Testimony Glove, Friend, Oct. 2008)
Additionally, Monsons prophetic predecessor, President Gordon B. Hinckley, took the opportunity in General
Conference to chime in on how we should testify of Joseph Smith:
We declare without equivocation that God the Father and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, appeared in
person to the boy Joseph Smith
That They came, both of Them, that Joseph saw Them in Their resplendent glory, that They spoke to
him and that he heard and recorded Their wordsof these remarkable things we testify. (The
Marvelous Foundation of Our Faith, Oct. 2002)
The boldest of language came from the apostle Dallin H. Oaks to articulate the grave importance of bearing witness
of the Restoration of the gospel, which usually involves testifying of Joseph Smith and/or the Book of Mormon. In a
2008 session of Conference, Elder Oaks said:
Those who have a testimony of the restored gospel also have a duty to share it Those who have the
gift to know have an obvious duty to bear their witness There has never been a greater need for
us to profess our faith, privately and publicly (see D&C 60:2) We need to affirm the reality of the
Restoration. (Testimony, Apr. 2008)
And last, but certainly not least, President Monson himself has even echoed these sentiments in General Conference
as recently as 2013 when he encouraged listeners to:
teach the truth with testimony Lift up your voices and testify Declare your witness concerning
the Book of Mormon. (Come, All Ye Sons of God, Apr. 2013)
Thus we can see that authoritative statements of this nature are so numerous, so explicit, and so emphatic that the
task they admonish members to perform is arguably, effectively a commandment.

Other Observations
That last statement from Monson above leads us to wonder when he last declared his own witness concerning the

Book of Mormon. I dont know when he last did so on the record (or if he ever has), but its been well over a decade.
His last testimony of Joseph Smith on the record was in General Conference on Oct. 2, 2005:
To this fitting tribute to our beloved Joseph, I add my own testimony that I know he was Gods
prophet, chosen to restore the gospel of Jesus Christ in these latter days. (The Prophet Joseph Smith:
Teacher by Example, Oct. 2005)
In the first table below, there is one statement from a Conference talk that will appear to some to be a testimony of
Joseph Smith at first glance:
I believe the testimony of one who, in this dispensation, spoke with the Father and the Son in a grove
now called sacred and who gave his life, sealing that testimony with his blood. Declared he: 'And now,
after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we
give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice
bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father.' (He Is Risen, Apr. 2010)
In this statement, Monson alludes to Joseph Smiths First Vision but notice that he does this in passing without
actually testifying of it. Next, he quotes D&C 76:22-23, in which Joseph reported that he and Sidney Rigdon saw
Christ. When read in context (see v. 19-25), it can be seen that Joseph included this report mainly to bolster their
testimony that he lives and is the Only Begotten of the Father as this is the focus of the passage. Therefore, Joseph
and Sidneys testimony here was of Christs divinity and not of their purported vision of Christ. So when Monson
states that he believe[s] the testimony, he simply echoes this testimony of Christ. This becomes even clearer when
these remarks from Monson are also read in context: they are one of a list of testimonies of Christ that he cites and
ratifies. The whole talk, in fact, is about Christ and Monsons testimony of Him, which we would expect from a talk
titled He Is Risen delivered on a glorious Easter Sunday.
I should also note here that an article attributed to Monson does contain a testimony of the Book of Mormon:
I testify of the truthfulness of this most correct of any book on earth, even the Book of Mormon
(Precious Promises of the Book of Mormon, Ensign, Oct. 2011)
While its technically possible that Monson wrote this line, it seems more likely that it was added by a colleague or
editor during the correlation process. If he did write it himself, it stands to reason that he would bear such
testimonies in his talks at least occasionally, which he hasnt been doing. And if he did write it, 1) the question would
just shift from Why isnt he testifying? to Why isnt he vocally testifying? and 2) it would suggest that he is not
simply forgetting to testify of the Book of Mormon but is rather consciously opting not to.
This might also be suggested by the fact that several of his quoted testimonies include Joseph Smith and/or the Book
of Mormon (see the yellow testimonies in the last table below). In fact, more than a quarter of the testimonies he
quotes include one or both of these topics. Considering this in conjunction with his admonition to declare your
witness concerning the Book of Mormon (and the fact that he has long served at or near the top of the Correlation
Committee that approved the other admonitions of this nature), it becomes apparent that he is mindful of the
importance of testifying of these foundational doctrines, making it all the more curious that he gone so long without
doing so himself in his addresses to the world.
The last noteworthy factoid Ill call to your attention is that, in addition to not testifying of Joseph Smith or the Book
of Mormon in the last decade, Monson has not even uttered the words Joseph Smith or Book of Mormon in the
last three paragraphs of any of these talks (which is statistically quite significant, as I showed last year). He did
mention characters from the book on one occasion and quoted a verse from it on another, but these were to support
points not directly related to the book itself. This is interesting because, of talks given in the church, it is almost
universally true that the most fervent testimonies are reserved for the ending remarks. And Monsons talks are no
exception to this rule his boldest declarations of conviction are generally contained in the last three paragraphs.
Does this suggest that he doesnt feel as strongly about these two unique Mormon doctrines as he does more
universal Christian teachings?

Conclusion
If this is the case if Monson is indeed less enthusiastic about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon what might
be the cause for such a lack of feeling? Could it be a lack of belief in the Restoration? Or rather a more nuanced form
of belief in it? Perhaps he feels that the only way he could honestly testify of it is in a way more nuanced than what
the rest of the Correlation Committee would allow. If he is in fact being pressured by his colleagues to stick to the
traditional, simplistic script on the churchs origins, his words on the subject would not all be from the heart and it
would thus make sense for him to avoid bearing personal witness of them. Could this be it? Or might there instead be
certain obscure, potential legal implications of Monson claiming to know such things since he is the sole owner of the
Corporation of the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
Whatever the case may be, I think the questions were raising here are worthwhile, and I hope people will continue
to raise and investigate them. I suspect that studying the testimonies, both past and present, of past and future
church presidents and those who are or have been in the running to assume that mantle will help narrow the
possibilities. Sure, these testimonies are allegedly recorded in heaven, so we could hold off and study them there, but
why wait that long when there are mysteries to be solved?

Additional Reading

Monsons Refusal to Testify My original paper on Monsons testimonies, which is significantly longer than
this one. While I still think it contains valuable research, I also realize that its less concise, less focused, and
less empirical than it probably should be, which has affected its reception in more scholarly circles. I intend
for this newer paper to supersede it in any respects on which the two differ.
Is it possible that President Monson doesn't bear witness of foundational doctrines? FAIRs attempt to show,
in response to my first paper, that Monson really has testified of the unique foundational doctrines of
Mormonism since 2005 on dozens of occasions.
Correcting FAIR and Looking Empirically at Monson's "Testimonies" My rebuttal to FAIR showing why their
implied definition of testimony is untenable, especially when the churchs own definition is considered. The
paper also provides empirical evidence that there is in fact a phenomenon to be studied in what Monson does
and does not testify of.

TruthIsReason
Please send questions, comments, and corrections to TruthIsReason7@gmail.com

Testimony Tables
Table 1. Pres. Monsons non-debatable testimonies, Nov. 2005 Oct. 2015. Testimony language in bold.

Date
Nov 6, 2005

Oct 6, 2007

Non-debatable Testimonies
Event Talk
Testimony
CES
Decisions Determine "When you choose your friends with caution, plan your future with purpose,
Destiny
and frame your life with faith, you will merit the companionship of the Holy
Spirit. You will have a perfect brightness of hope. You will testify through
your own experience to the truth of the Lords promise: 'I, the Lord, am
merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those
who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and
in truth unto the end. Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their
glory.' [D&C 76:56] To these perfect truths I bear my solemn witness..."
GC
Mrs. Pattonthe
"With all the strength of my soul I testify that our Heavenly Father loves
Story Continues
each one of us. He hears the prayers of humble hearts; He hears our cries for
help, as He heard Mrs. Patton. His Son, our Savior and Redeemer, speaks to
each of us today: 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my
voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.'"

Oct 6, 2007

GC

Mrs. Pattonthe
Story Continues
Guideposts for Lifes
Journey
Guideposts for Lifes
Journey

Nov 13, 2007

BYU

Nov 13, 2007

BYU

Apr 5, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Looking Back and

Moving Forward

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Apr 6, 2008
Oct 4, 2008

GC
GC

Oct 5, 2008

GC

Looking Back and

Moving Forward
Abundantly Blessed
To Learn, to Do, to
Be
Until We Meet Again

Jan 11, 2009

BYU

Great Expectations

Apr 3, 2009

GC

Welcome to
Conference

Apr 3, 2009

GC

Be Your Best Self

Apr 4, 2009

GC

Be of Good Cheer

Apr 4, 2009

GC

Be of Good Cheer

Apr 4, 2009

GC

Until We Meet Again

Sep 15, 2009

BYU

Principles from
Prophets

Oct 3, 2009

GC

Oct 4, 2009

GC

School Thy Feelings,

O My Brother
Closing Remarks

Oct 4, 2009

GC

Closing Remarks

Oct 4, 2009

GC

Closing Remarks

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Apr 4, 2010
Apr 4, 2010

GC
GC

A Word at Closing
A Word at Closing

Apr 3, 2011

GC

Apr 3, 2011

GC

The Holy Templea

Beacon to the World
At Parting

Oct 2, 2011

GC

Stand in Holy Places

Oct 2, 2011

GC

Stand in Holy Places

Oct 2, 2011
Oct 2, 2011

GC
GC

Until We Meet Again

Until We Meet Again

Oct 2, 2011

GC

Until We Meet Again

Oct 2, 2011

GC

Until We Meet Again

Nov 1, 2011

BYU

Be a Light to the
World

Mar 31, 2012

GC

Apr 8, 2012

GC

Believe, Obey,
Endure
The Race of Life

Examples of
Righteousness
Looking Back and
Moving Forward
Looking Back and
Moving Forward
Looking Back and
Moving Forward
Looking Back and
Moving Forward
Looking Back and
Moving Forward
Looking Back and
Moving Forward
Looking Back and
Moving Forward

"I am certain our Heavenly Father was mindful of her needs and wanted her
to hear the comforting truths of the gospel."
"I testify to you today that turning away from God brings broken covenants,
shattered dreams, and crushed hopes."
"I bear witness to you today that the sweetest spirit and feeling in all of
mortality is when we have an opportunity to be on the Lords errand and to
know that He has guided our footsteps."
"You 'are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation,' and you
can make a difference. To these truths I testify"
"I testify to you that this is His work."
"I testify as well that our Savior Jesus Christ is at the head of this Church,
which bears His name."
"I testify that each one of us can feel the Lords inspiration as we live
worthily and strive to serve Him."
"I testify that He loves useach one."
"I know without question, my brothers and sisters, that God lives."
"I know that the sweetest experience in all this life is to feel His promptings
as He directs us in the furtherance of His work."
"President Henry B. Eyring and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf are men of great
ability and sound understanding... I believe they have been prepared by the
Lord for the positions they now occupy."
"With all my heart and the fervency of my soul, I lift my voice in
testimony today as a special witness and declare that God does live. Jesus
is His Son, the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh. He is our Redeemer;
He is our Mediator with the Father. He loves us with a love we cannot fully
comprehend, and because He loves us, He gave His life for us."
"I have the sure knowledge... that God directs His prophet."
"This is my prayer, my plea as I add my testimony. This work is true."
"I leave with you my testimony that this work in which we are engaged is
true. The Lord is at the helm."
"I bear witness to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that
He guides and directs His Church here upon the earth."
"This testimony I bear to you, this witness I give unto you, that God lives,
that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, that He is our Elder
Brother, He is our Redeemer, He is our Savior, and He is the author of your
great expectations."
"we note with sadness the absence of Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles... I have no doubt that he is carrying on this
great work on the other side of the veil."
"The strength which we earnestly seek in order to meet the challenges of a
complex and changing world can be ours when, with fortitude and resolute
courage, we stand and declare with Joshua, "As for me and my house, we will
serve the Lord." To this divine truth I testify"
"I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though
the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our
knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our
Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk
uprightly and keep the commandments. There will be nothing in this world
that can defeat us."
"I declare that God lives and that He hears and answers our prayers. His Son,
Jesus Christ, is our Savior and our Redeemer. Heavens blessings await us."
"During this conference we sustained a new member of that Quorum [Neil L.
Andersen]... I testify that he is the man our Heavenly Father wants to fill this
position at this time."
"I think the nation and the world have never been beset with a greater
variety of challenges to meet and problems to solve, and you and those
similar to you are destined to meet those challenges and to solve those
problems. I know you can, because the Lord will provide the help you need."
"If we desire to have a proper spirit with us at all times, we must choose to
refrain from becoming angry. I testify that such is possible."
"I testify to you that we are all in this together and that every man, woman,
and child has a part to play."
"I bear my testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and
that He guides and directs His Church here upon the earth."
"I leave with you my witness and my testimony that God our Eternal
Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He is personal and
real."
"I have readand I believethe testimonies of those who experienced the
grief of Christs Crucifixion and the joy of His Resurrection."
"I have readand I believethe testimonies of those in the New World who
were visited by the same risen Lord."
"I believe the testimony of one who, in this dispensation, spoke with the
Father and the Son in a grove now called sacred and who gave his life, sealing
that testimony with his blood. Declared he: 'And now, after the many
testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all,
which we give of him: That he lives! For we saw him, even on the right hand
of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of
the Father.'"
"To all within the sound of my voice, I declare, If a man die, he shall live
again."
"He is risen!... Death is conquered; man is free. Christ has won the victory!... I
declare that this is true..."
"Our Heavenly Father is mindful of us. Of that I testify."
"I bear my testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and
that He guides and directs His Church here upon the earth."
"I declare that the welfare program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints is inspired of Almighty God."
"I believe that none of us can conceive the full import of what Christ did for
us in Gethsemane"
"I know without question that the Lord intended for those who were
present at that session of the Frankfurt Temple dedication to hear the
powerful, touching testimony of His servant Brother Peter Mourik."
"...I declare to you, however, that there is nothing which can bring more joy
into our lives or more peace to our souls than the Spirit which can come to us
as we follow the Savior and keep the commandments."
"I testify to you that our Heavenly Father is mindful of us."
"I testify to you that we are all in this together and that every man, woman,
and child has a part to play."
"I bear my testimony to you that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and
that He guides and directs His Church here upon the earth."
"I leave with you my witness and my testimony that God our Eternal
Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He is personal and
real."
"Of Him I testify: He is our Savior and our Redeemer, our Advocate with the
Father. He is our Exemplar and our strength. He is the light that shineth in
darkness."
"Believe that remaining strong and faithful to the truths of the gospel is of
utmost importance. I testify that it is!"
"Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where do we go after this life?
No longer need these universal questions remain unanswered. From the very
depths of my soul and in all humility, I testify that those things of which I
have spoken are true."

Apr 8, 2012

GC

The Race of Life

Oct 6, 2012

GC

Oct 7, 2012

GC

See Others as They

May Become
Consider the
Blessings

Apr 6, 2013

GC

Apr 7, 2013

GC

Sep 28, 2013

GC

Sep 28, 2013

GC

Oct 6, 2013

GC

"I Will Not Fail Thee,

nor Forsake Thee"

Oct 6, 2013

GC

"I Will Not Fail Thee,

nor Forsake Thee"

Apr 6, 2014

GC

Until We Meet Again

Apr 6, 2014

GC

Until We Meet Again

Oct 5, 2014

GC

Oct 5, 2014

GC

Ponder the Path of

Thy Feet
Ponder the Path of
Thy Feet

Apr 4, 2015

GC

Apr 5, 2015

GC

Oct 3, 2015

GC

Keep the
Commandments

Oct 4, 2015

GC

Be an Example and a
Light

Come, All Ye Sons of

God
Until We Meet Again

We Never Walk
Alone
We Never Walk
Alone

The Priesthooda
Sacred Gift
Blessings of the
Temple

"As His special witness, I testify to you that He lives and that He awaits our
triumphant return."
"Of Him who spoke these words, I declare my personal witness. He is the
Son of God, our Redeemer, and our Savior."
"'Men are, that they might have joy.' I testify that much of that joy comes as
we recognize that we can communicate with our Heavenly Father through
prayer and that those prayers will be heard and answered... by a Heavenly
Father who knows and loves us perfectly and who desires our happiness."
"Of Him who spoke these words I declare my witness: He is the Son of God,
our Redeemer, and our Savior."
"I bear my personal witness and testimony to you that God lives, that He
hears the prayers of humble hearts. His Son, our Savior and Redeemer,
speaks to each of us: 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear
my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.'"
"I too love Relief Society. I testify to you that it was organized by inspiration
and is a vital part of the Lords Church here upon the earth."
"We will understand that we do not ever walk alone. I promise you that you
will one day stand aside and look at your difficult times, and you will realize
that He was always there beside you. I know this to be true in the passing of
my eternal companion"
"With all the strength of my soul, I testify that God lives and loves us, that
His Only Begotten Son lived and died for us, and that the gospel of Jesus
Christ is that penetrating light which shines through the darkness of our
lives."
"Of utmost comfort to me during this tender time of parting have been my
testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the knowledge I have that my
dear Frances lives still. I know that our separation is temporary... I know
that we will be reunited one day and will never again be separated."
"I bear testimony that this work is true, that our Savior lives, and that He
guides and directs His Church here upon the earth."
"I leave with you my witness and my testimony that God our Eternal
Father lives and loves us. He is indeed our Father, and He is personal and
real."
"Jesus Christ, whom I love, whom I serve, and of whom I testify"
"I am certain we left our Father with an overwhelming desire to return to
Him, that we might gain the exaltation He planned for us and which we
ourselves so much wanted."
"I testify that He lives and bear this witness in His holy name, the name of
Jesus Christ"
"I testify that He is our Redeemer. He is the Son of God. He it is who came
forth from the grave that first Easter morning, bringing with Him the gift of
everlasting life for all of Gods children."
"I testify that all of us are beloved sons of our Father in Heaven, sent to earth
at this day and time for a purpose, and given the priesthood of God so that we
can serve others and perform Gods work here upon the earth."
"Of Him I testify. He is our Savior and Redeemer, our Advocate with the
Father. He is our Exemplar and our strength. He is 'the light which shineth in
darkness.'"

Table 2. Pres. Monsons debatable testimonies, Nov. 2005 Oct. 2015. Testimony language in bold.

Date
Nov 6, 2005
Nov 6, 2005
Apr 7, 2007
Nov 13, 2007
Apr 6, 2008

Event Talk
CES
Decisions Determine
Destiny
CES
Decisions Determine
Destiny
GC
Tabernacle
Memories
BYU
Guideposts for Life's
Journey
GC
Looking Back and
Moving Forward

Apr 6, 2008

GC

Abundantly Blessed

Oct 5, 2008

GC

Finding Joy in the

Journey

Oct 5, 2008

GC

Oct 5, 2008

GC

Finding Joy in the

Journey
Until We Meet Again

Oct 5, 2008

GC

Until We Meet Again

Mar 28, 2009

GC

Apr 4, 2009

GC

May You Have

Courage
Until We Meet Again

Sep 15, 2009

BYU

Sep 15, 2009

BYU

Sep 15, 2009

BYU

Sep 15, 2009

BYU

Sep 15, 2009

BYU

Oct 3, 2009

GC

Oct 4, 2009

GC

Oct 4, 2009

GC

Apr 4, 2010

GC

School Thy Feelings,

O My Brother
What Have I Done for
Someone Today?
What Have I Done for
Someone Today?
A Word at Closing

Apr 4, 2010

GC

A Word at Closing

Oct 3, 2010

GC

Till We Meet Again

Apr 2, 2011

GC

Priesthood Power

Apr 2, 2011

GC

Priesthood Power

Apr 2, 2011

GC

Priesthood Power

Oct 1, 2011

GC

Dare to Stand Alone

Principles from
Prophets
Principles from
Prophets
Principles from
Prophets
Principles from
Prophets
Principles from
Prophets

Debatable Testimonies
Testimony
"I am old-fashioned enough to believe in God; to believe in the dignity
and potential of His creature, man"
"...I am realistic, not idealistic, enough to know that I am not alone in
these feelings."
"I believe the walk from the audience to the stand was the longest walk of
my life."
"I suppose every one of us in this congregation has had a few 'heartstoppers' in his or her life. I know that I have."
"I am grateful for the abiding legacy left by each one of those 15 men. I have
the sure knowledge, as I am confident they had, that God directs His
prophet."
"I believe we are all the more determined to live the principles of the gospel
of Jesus Christ."
"I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short
sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is
important and what is not."
"Ive shared with you previously an example of this philosophy. I believe it
bears repeating."
"Brothers and sisters, I know you will agree with me that this has been a
most inspiring conference."
"I am certain I represent the membership of the Church everywhere in
expressing appreciation to the brethren and sisters who have addressed us."
"...I believe there are many times when refraining from judgmentor gossip
or criticism, which are certainly akin to judgmenttakes an act of courage."
"I believe we are all more determined to live the principles of the gospel of
Jesus Christ."
"I believe one of President [Joseph Fielding] Smiths most noble
accomplishments was after World War II."
"I believe we could say that he [President Smith] would leave for you and
for me this advice: Be studious."
"I asked President Kimball what would be a guiding principle from his life.
And then I answered it: I believe it would be dedication."
"What would be a guiding principle from President Hunters life? I believe it
would be his ability always to look for the best in people"
"What would be the trait of President Heber J. Grant that he would probably
have you remember and incorporate in your life? I feel it would be
persistence."
"I believe most of us are familiar with the sad account of Thomas B. Marsh
and his wife, Elizabeth."
"I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to
others, there is little purpose to our own lives."
"I am confident it is the intention of each member of the Church to serve
and to help those in need."
"I know you join with me in expressing gratitude to those brethren and
sisters who have been released during this conference."
"After listening to the counsel and testimonies of those who have spoken to
us, I believe we have been richly blessed and are all more determined to live
the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ."
"I am certain I speak for all members everywhere when I express deep
appreciation for the truths we have been taught."
"In the three years since I was sustained as President of the Church, I
believe the saddest and most discouraging responsibility I have each week
is the handling of cancellations of sealings."
"I realize that there are situations where marriages cannot be saved, but I
feel strongly that for the most part they can be and should be."
"I am confident the bride and her family thought, 'These must be friends of
the groom' and that the grooms family thought, 'These must be friends of
the bride.'"
"A distinguished Notre Dame sociologist led a research team in conducting
in-depth interviews with 230 young adults across America. I believe we can
safely assume that the results would be similar in most parts of the world."

Oct 1, 2011

GC

Dare to Stand Alone

Oct 2, 2011

GC

Stand in Holy Places

Oct 2, 2011

GC

Until We Meet Again

Nov 1, 2011

BYU

Be a Light to the
World

Apr 8, 2012

GC

Oct 6, 2012

GC

As We Close This
Conference
See Others as They
May Become

Oct 6, 2012

GC

Oct 7, 2012

GC

Oct 7, 2012

GC

Oct 7, 2012

GC

Oct 7, 2012

GC

Consider the
Blessings

Oct 7, 2012

GC

Oct 7, 2012

GC

Apr 7, 2013

GC

Consider the
Blessings
Consider the
Blessings
Until We Meet Again

Oct 6, 2013

GC

"I Will Not Fail Thee,

nor Forsake Thee"

Oct 6, 2013

GC

"I Will Not Fail Thee,

nor Forsake Thee"

Oct 6, 2013

GC

"I Will Not Fail Thee,

nor Forsake Thee"

Apr 5, 2014

GC

Welcome to
Conference

Apr 6, 2014

GC

Until We Meet Again

Apr 5, 2015

GC

Oct 3, 2015

GC

Oct 4, 2015

GC

Oct 4, 2015

GC

Blessings of the
Temple
Keep the
Commandments
Be an Example and a
Light
Be an Example and a
Light

See Others as They

May Become
Consider the
Blessings
Consider the
Blessings
Consider the
Blessings

"I believe my first experience in having the courage of my convictions took

place when I served in the United States Navy near the end of World War II."
"I know there was something specific I planned to purchase with the five
dollars, although all these years later I cant recall what it was."
"My brothers and sisters, I know you will agree with me that this has been a
most inspiring conference."
"He [Clayton M. Christensen] is also an alumnus of Brigham Young
University, and I believe his son Spencer and daughter Catherine are
currently students here."
"I know you join with me in expressing profound gratitude to those brethren
and sisters who have been released during this conference."
"Among many truths the speaker discussed, she said that a woman needs to
be told she is beautiful. She needs to be told she is valued. She needs to be
told she is worthwhile. Brethren, I know that men are very much like
women in this regard."
"Although to varying degrees, I believe every man or young man here
tonight has a testimony."
"I had arrived at a critical moment, in response to what I know was
inspiration from on high."
"I believe that the more we act upon the inspiration and impressions which
come to us, the more the Lord will entrust to us His errands."
"Was it chance that our paths crossed on that cold December night? I do not
for one moment believe so. Rather, I believe our meeting was an answer to a
mothers and fathers heartfelt prayers for the son they cherished."
"...our Heavenly Father is aware of our needs and will help us as we call upon
Him for assistance. I believe that no concern of ours is too small or
insignificant."
"Reinforced constantly during my own review of the years has been my
knowledge that our prayers are heard and answered."
"This was a seemingly unremarkable meeting but one which I am convinced
was guided by the Spirit"
"My brothers and sisters, what a glorious conference we have had. I know
you will agree with me that the messages have been inspiring."
"Although he had not heard the blessing we had given him, the Spirit was
strong, and I believe he was inspired to know we had provided the blessing
which he needed."
"Of utmost comfort to me during this tender time of parting have been my
testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the knowledge I have that my
dear Frances lives still."
"As I have traveled far and wide throughout the world fulfilling the
responsibilities of my calling, I have come to know many thingsnot the
least of which is that sadness and suffering are universal."
"This area had been experiencing an especially dry season, and I believe
many prayers had been sent heavenward over the preceding several weeks
for much-needed rain."
"I know you join with me in expressing our sincere gratitude to those
brethren and sisters who were released during this conference."
"There is no blessing more precious to me than the peace and comfort I
receive from the knowledge I have that she and I will be together again."
"I am confident that each of us has as his ultimate goal life everlasting in the
presence of our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ."
"I believe the second scripture explains, in great part, how we can
accomplish the first."
"I am confident there are within our sphere of influence those who are
lonely, those who are ill, and those who feel discouraged."

Table 3. Statements from Pres. Monson containing quoted testimonies, Nov. 2005 Oct. 2015. Testimony language in bold.
Testimonies of Joseph Smith and/or the Book of Mormon in yellow.

Date
Nov 6, 2005

Nov 14, 2006

Event Talk
CES
Decisions Determine
Destiny
CES
Decisions Determine
Destiny
BYU
Three Gates to Open

Apr 7, 2007

GC

Nov 13, 2007

BYU

Nov 13, 2007

BYU

Jan 11, 2009

BYU

I Know That My
Redeemer Lives!
Guideposts for Life's
Journey
Guideposts for Life's
Journey
Great Expectations

Jan 11, 2009

Apr 4, 2009

BYU
GC

Great Expectations
Be of Good Cheer

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Apr 4, 2010

GC

He Is Risen!

Sep 25, 2010

GC

Oct 3, 2010

GC

Nov 1, 2011

BYU

Apr 7, 2012

GC

Charity Never
Faileth
The Divine Gift of
Gratitude
Be a Light to the
World
Willing and Worthy
to Serve

Apr 7, 2012

GC

Apr 6, 2013

GC

Apr 6, 2013

GC

Apr 7, 2013

GC

Sep 28, 2013

GC

Sep 28, 2013

GC

Oct 6, 2013

GC

Apr 5, 2015

GC

Nov 6, 2005

Willing and Worthy

to Serve
Come, All Ye Sons of
God
Come, All Ye Sons of
God
Obedience Brings
Blessings
We Never Walk
Alone
We Never Walk
Alone
"I Will Not Fail Thee,
nor Forsake Thee"
Blessings of the
Temple

Quoted Testimonies
Statement
"I propose to stay with my faith, with the faith of my people. I know that
happiness and contentment are there"
"I wasnt with Joseph, but I believe him"
"I dont know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones
among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found
how to serve."
"I know that my Redeemer lives!"
"I propose to stay with my faith, with the faith of my people. I know that
happiness and contentment are there"
"I wasnt with Joseph, but I believe him"
"I propose to stay with my faith, with the faith of my people. I know that
happiness and contentment are there"
"I wasnt with Joseph, but I believe him"
"I know that because He suffered and died, I shall live again with my family;
that because He broke the chains of death, I shall see my children again and
will have the joy of raising them."
"I know you have been through a lot in your short life and that your current
condition is difficult."
"I know that Jesus Christ lives, and because He lives, all of us, including our
beloved Jason, will live again too."
"I know it looks terrible, but my doctor says it could possibly improve after
more treatments."
"I know hell come."
"I use applied econometrics maybe once a year, but I use my knowledge that
the Book of Mormon is the word of God many times every day of my life."
"I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that
the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall
prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he
commandeth them."
"The doctors dont know [how they made it alive], but I know."
"I testify to you that Joseph was a prophet. He did translate the Book of
Mormon. He saw God the Father and Jesus the Son. I know it.'"
"Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I know it. I know it. I know it."
"...for now I know that thou fearest God"
"I know not by what methods rare, But this I know, God answers prayer."
"I know that He has given His Word, Which tells me prayer is always heard,
And will be answered, soon or late."
"I know that my redeemer liveth."
"I know now that all will be well."