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    The Newsroom Blog
    9 July 2015 | POSTED BY Newsroom Staff

    Mormonism Online: In Your Own Words | July 9, 2015

    Thousands Remember President Boyd K. Packer

    In Your Own Words is a regular sampling of online articles, blog posts and social media that represent some of the current conversations about Mormonism. The posts in this series do not necessarily represent the views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, nor are they meant to be a comprehensive summary of the online conversations about the Church. The intent is to highlight social media content from individuals that will help journalists and the public better understand Mormonism.

    Boyd K. Packer, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was known for his knowledge and love of scriptures. After his death on July 3, 2015, President Packer was remembered online for his teachings.

    Thousands shared their favorite lessons, including President’s Packer’s teachings on Christ’s Atonement and the relationship it has with hope.

    Others appreciated President Packer’s lessons on families and shared the influence his words had on inspiring them to become better parents and siblings.

    President Packer’s commitment to teaching God’s doctrine was firm, and his last days were spent preparing to teach Latter-day Saints at the religion’s 185th Semiannual General Conference happening in October 2015. Many appreciated his years of stories and teaching style.

    Charlie Kevin Richards: Pres Packer was the one apostle that I remember the most. I think it was his talk on faith and comparing faith to the flavor of salt. You know what salt is when you taste it, but can you explain the taste? It's the same with faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His teachings. It's hard to explain it but you know that it's true in your heart. (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Facebook Page)

    With President Packer's extensive background in education, it was no surprise that social media users referenced President Packer's last general conference talk given in April 2015.

    In the wake of the death of the LDS Apostle President Boyd K. Packer, I've been thinking about all the things he's taught me over the years. One of my favorite quotes is from his talk in General Conference April 2014 entitled "The Witness." He said: "There will be nothing essential to your salvation and exaltation that shall not rest upon you. Arms now empty will be filled. Hearts now hurting with broken dreams and yearnings will be healed." | This sweet promise speaks peace to my soul that one day my righteous desires will come to pass. Until then, I will rely on the Savior Jesus Christ. The same Savior of whom President Packer bore firm testimony that He lives and knows Him through word and deed. May he rest in peace. #prespacker #lds #ldsconf #imamormon #picfx #abeautifulmess #rccreateyourownart background by @scrapaholic

    A photo posted by Rachel💛Cope (@rachelcope76) on

    Those who knew President Packer knew of his love for art and poetry. In an Associated Press article, Allan Packer spoke of his father's talent when he said, “Father loved to shed his suit and tie and get dirty in the outdoors to hunt, fish and camp. He was also an avid painter and sculptor.” 

    Many also noted his wit and sense of humor.

    #PresPacker ❤️

    A photo posted by 🍍🅒🅡🅘🅢🅣🅘✌🏼 (@hiyapapayamom) on

    Community leaders and reporters also posted online thoughts and condolences for President Packer’s passing. Utah State Senator Mike Lee paid tribute to the apostle on the floor of the U.S. Senate in Washington D.C., where he said, “Experiences such as tuning an old radio, getting his boys to stop wrestling in the living room, visiting a small church in Denmark, carving and painting birds, learning about crocodiles in Africa or observing the pleadings for help from an orphan boy while a serviceman in Japan — all emerged as foundational stories from which to teach life-changing principles.”

    Throughout his life, including his 45 years of service as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Pres. Boyd K....

    Posted by Gary R. Herbert on Friday, July 3, 2015

    President Packer served 53 years as a general authority and shaped the lives of those he ministered to. A video posted on his Facebook page summarized his life’s achievements, and many comments focused on President Packer's faith and example.

    Learn more about the life and legacy of President Boyd K. Packer. #PresPacker

    Posted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Friday, July 3, 2015

    Daniel Smith: I was a recent convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints when I met this Apostle of Jesus Christ! What a marvelous testimony he bore of our Savior, I knew that his witness was real and special, I knew immediately that I was meeting a man called of God to be a Special Witness of Jesus Christ and a great teacher of the Gospel. I will always remember shaking that hand, the hand of a true Apostle Of Jesus Christ. He taught me so much, my prayers are with his family. (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Facebook Page)

    Gigi Wong: President Packer surely was a faithful and dedicated servant of the Lord. Also, a great example to us all.  (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Facebook Page)

    Lyle Duane McAllister: What a marvelous example of an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. He always boldly spoke the truth in clarity and exactness. What an example for us to follow in testimony and service. (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Facebook Page)

    President Packer's funeral will be held on Friday, July 10, 2015 on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. It can be viewed live via MormonNewsroom.org, LDS.org, KSL TV 5.2, BYUtv, BYUtv Global, BYUtv Eleven, BYUtv International, Mormon Channel, Canal Mormón (Spanish) and on the Church satellite system. In addition, audio broadcasts will air on KSL radio, BYU Classical 89 and BYU-Radio.

    To learn more about President Packer's life and ministry, visit MormonNewsroom.org.

    Read Older Post Mormonism in the News: Getting It Right | July 2, 2015 Read Newer Post Church Leader Linda K. Burton Throws Out First Pitch at Dodgers Game

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