Richard James new president of the Council of Twelve. Art Smith honoured at Canada pizza night. Harmony service offers hope

Photo courtesy of Stephen Thompson

On Wednesday, Richard C.N. James was announced as the new president of the Council of Twelve Apostles. The Conference also welcomed two new presidents of Seventy, including Leslie Pascua from the Philippines, who is a familiar presence in the Beyond the Walls community and will participate in the June 8 Sunday service.

Delegates passed Resolution A-3, which eliminates formal “whereas” statements from future resolutions. While some raised concerns about losing contextual background, an amendment was approved to allow authors to provide non-editable background statements instead.

Debate continued on Resolution G-5, which addresses the climate emergency and calls for a reduction in fossil fuel use and investment. Delegates shared differing perspectives on feasibility, impact, and readiness. Deliberations will continue today.

The International Youth Service Award was presented to Andrew and Cheryl Fox in recognition of their ministry with children and youth. The Human Rights Award was presented to Randie Marsh, director of Hand in Hand Kenya, for her work operating a safehouse supporting girls and women, and to Rev. Jimmy Munson of Chattanooga, Tennessee, for his community ministry providing food, safety, and support in reducing crime.

On Wednesday evening, Canadian delegates and friends gathered for a pizza night in Independence, Missouri. The event was an opportunity to reconnect, make new friends, and share stories over delicious food. Apostle Art Smith was honoured with a memory book and a painting of The Old, Old Path, commemorating his many years of ministry in Canada. New apostles Lachlan MacKay and Shannon McAdam, along with new field presidents Karen Peter and Joelle Wight, shared their hopes for working together with Canadian members in the years ahead.

Later that evening, more than 100 2SLGBTQIA+ members and allies gathered for a worship service organized by Harmony. Ministers from around the world—including Parker Johnson from Canada and Tiona Horning from the USA—shared testimonies and a message of comfort, inclusion, and hope amid the many threats queer persons are facing today. They affirmed that it is a Christian priority to align our mission with efforts to address these injustices. Presiding Evangelist Mareva Arnaud blessed the assembly with a homily, and the service concluded with the celebration of communion.

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