Women of the Church who are distinct in happy ways from the world will make a significant contribution to the future of the Church, said Elaine L. Jack, newly called general Relief Society president.

"My counselors and I look forward eagerly to serving, and we want to serve in a way that will help women everywhere contribute to the great forward movement of the Church," she said Sunday afternoon. "I know in the strength of the Lord, we can do all things required of us."I believe that the women of the Church have a unique contribution to make," she said.

"In the words of a modern-day prophet, much of the major growth that has come into the Church in the last days will happen to the degree that the women of the Church reflect righteousness and are articulate in their lives, and to the degree that they are seen as distinct and different in happy ways from the women of the world.

"This is a joyous gospel," she declared.

She referred to her new calling as "an awesome responsibility" and acknowledged "the magnificent women who have preceded me in this call, especially Sister Winder."

She paid tribute to her husband, Joseph E. Jack, for his "stability and great strength."

She said that she also appreciated the love and great strength that came from her four sons and their family. "In my prayers each day I give thanks for the influence of many good people around me. For friends, and for caring neighbors."

Sister Jack mentioned that Sister Ardeth G. Kapp, to whom she served as counselor in the Young Women general presidency, "is like a sister to me. I pay tribute to her as a great woman of vision, called by the Lord to lead the young women of the world at a most critical time. She has tutored me and encouraged me and allowed me to grow.

"I love you young women," Sister Jack said. "I know that you are understanding the importance of the Young Women values, those gospel principles that help you prepare to make and keep sacred covenants."

She shared her testimony, saying, "I know that Ezra Taft Benson is a prophet of God. I will follow his counsel, and the counsel of those Brethren who have been called to serve with him.

"I know that Jesus is the Christ, and I know He will direct my paths if I make myself worthy of His guidance."