The First Vision - not the landing of men on the moon - is the greatest occurrence in the history of mankind since the resurrection of Christ, said Elder Carlos E. Asay of the Presidency of the Seventy in the Sunday morning session.

"I stand in awe of the recent developments in space technology," Elder Asay continued. "However, I take issue with those who believe that the placement of men upon the moon is the greatest occurrence of the last 2,000 years. I do so because of an event wherein the Creator of the universe, Himself, came to earth in answer to an obscure boy's humble prayer and revealed pure theology."There were no cameras trained upon Joseph SmithT when he stepped into that grove of trees in upper state New York. There were no cheering throngs or support personnel to provide him encouragement. Nor were there newspaper reporters on hand to describe his actions. He knelt alone under the gaze of his Heavenly Father and offered up the sincere desires of his heart with perfect confidence that his voice would be heard.

"We are told that the spin-off effects of the moon mission were many," said Elder Asay. " However, the consequences of Joseph Smith's first vocal prayer . . . are infinitely greater, and should be pondered seriously by all who are interested in `things as they really are, and of things as they really will be.'

"Joseph did not emerge from the grove with lunar rocks in his pocket or with moon dust on his shoes. He emerged with a changed countenance and with a gold mine of truth lodged in his mind and heart."

Elder Asay outlined some of the truths Joseph learned during the First Vision:

- There are no winners in wars of words or tumults of opinion, as regarding religious matters.

- There was an actual being from an unseen world that had power enough to bind Joseph's tongue and envelope him in darkness.

- The powers of darkness flee before the powers of light.

- Joseph learned he was made in the image of God, exactly as the scriptures attest.

- None of the churches of the day were right.

- Joseph learned why he must not align himself with any existing church.

- The testimony of James was true - that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain and not be upbraided.

- There was a work for Joseph to do.

"It all started so quietly, so simply, and so very wonderfully," testified Elder Asay. "A believing boy took `one small step' and prayed. A loving Father in Heaven listened and responded. What has resulted is rightfully referred to as `one giant leap for mankind.' "