Elder Rulon G. Craven, who began his service in the Seventy last Jan. 1, spoke Saturday afternoon regarding the divine calling of the Lord's prophets and apostles.

He said that while serving 13 1/2 years as secretary to the Council of the Twelve, his testimony was strengthened."Prophets have a special gift of the Spirit, a prophetic gift," he said. "During the time I served as secretary to the Twelve, I observed these men who our Father in Heaven called as special witnesses of His Son Jesus Christ."

He said his heart was often filled with emotion as he listened to members of the Twelve pray to their Father in Heaven. And, he said, as President Howard W. Hunter led the Twelve through the agenda, he was continually reminded of a scriptural passage:

"And every decision made by either of these quorums must be by the unanimous voice of the same; that is, every member in each quorum must be agreed to its decisions, in order to make their decisions of the same power or validity one with the other." (D&C 107:27.)

"The members of the Twelve strive to live according to the promptings of the Spirit," Elder Craven testified. "They speak their mind. However, they are also good listeners and speak when moved upon by the Holy Spirit."

Decisions made by the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve are directed by the Spirit because they strive continually to abide by the counsel of the Lord, Elder Craven declared.

Members of the First Presidency, Council of the Twelve, the Seventy and the Presiding Bishopric, he said, "are truly men who are striving to be pure in heart. A spirit of righteousness, love and unity abounds in their quorum meetings."

Elder Craven spoke of the love members of the Council of the Twelve have for President Hunter, who, a number of years ago, was informed he would not walk again. However, through faith, determination and strenuous physical therapy, he did walk again.

He said President Hunter is an example of maintaining faith and determination in the face of adversity.

"These men," he said of the Council of the Twelve, "live close to the Lord. I have witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit touch their hearts and minds and give expression to their words."

Elder Craven told the conference congregation, "There will yet be perilous and challenging times ahead. I admonish the saints to look to the prophets, study their words.

"Teach their words in your family home evenings. Sustain them in private and in public, pray for them in your private and family prayers. In turn, enjoy in your lives that inner peace that surpasseth all understanding."