Starting from Left Photo: Sister Julie B. Beck, Sister Margaret S. Liffereth

Leaders from worldwide headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints often travel far and wide to inspire and strengthen members throughout the world. Sister Julie B. Beck and Sister Margaret S. Lifferth, who just met with the Saints in Hong Kong last weekend, are no exception.

As the General President of the Relief Society and the First Counselor in the General Primary Presidency, respectively, Sisters Beck and Lifferth aimed to provide support and strengthen local church leadership, especially the auxiliary leaders in fulfilling their divine callings.

“Their advice to the leaders was very clear,” said Liana Lee, the China Hong Kong Stake Young Women President. “Sister Beck emphasized on four key points: (1) this is the Lord's work, (2) we (leaders) are entitled to revelations in our callings, (3) we need to work through Church councils, and (4) we take care of the Lord's sheep, one by one.”

At the auxiliary leadership training meeting held on Saturday, 14 June, after a general session, the attendees were divided into two workshops. Sisters Beck and Lifferth led interactive sessions on how to perform certain functions in the Relief Society and Primary, and questions-and-answers. Their approach was practical and to-the-point.

In fulfilling our callings and assignments in the Church and at home, we are not without issues and challenges, according to Sister Beck. She said we need “to have the right climate – faith, hope and charity – as the plant needs earth, sun and rain.” She encouraged all to attend the temple often so that we may have the “climate” and be inspired.

During their stay in Hong Kong, Sisters Beck and Lifferth visited the homes of several members in an effort to show love and care to them, as well as to better understand the living environment of people in Hong Kong. They also met with representatives of two women organizations in Hong Kong – Hong Kong Federation of Women and Women Service Association. The meetings were useful as the Church attempts to establish more contacts and collaboration with community organizations in rendering service to the communities.

Note: Sister Julie B. Beck was sustained as the General President of the Relief Society in April 2007 and Sister Margaret S. Liffereth was sustained as the First Counselor in the Primary General Presidency in April 2005.