Teaching values of sexual purity: strengthening youth
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"The plaguing sin of this generation is sexual immorality," said Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Council of the Twelve in quoting President Ezra Taft Benson.
Sexual immorality "will be the source of more temptations, more buffetings, and more difficulties for the elders of Israel than any other," he explained. "We are all aware of the growing battle that is waging between good and evil and many of our youth are ill-equipped to survive."He emphasized that the booklet For the Strength of Youth should be in the hands of every young person in the Church.
Elder Ballard was joined by Elders James M. Paramore and Jack H. Goaslind and Sister Ardeth G. Kapp in making the presentation.
Elder Paramore, executive director of the Priesthood Department, a member of the Presidency of the Seventy, said, "Some of our youth believe that repentance is the same as confession. We must teach . . . that confession is only a part of the process."
He also encouraged thorough implementation of the booklet.
Elder Goaslind of the Seventy and Young Men general president, said, "The key difference between youth who live righteously and those who don't is their personal values. When they accept values of sexual purity and morality as their own, there is a much greater chance that they will remain morally clean.
Sister Kapp, Young Women general president, said, "The future of the Church depends on today's youth. There are many . . . with unwavering commitment to live morally clean lives. But . . . far too many rationalize and justify immoral conduct. We must give attention to this serious concern. Parents have the first responsibility, and the Church has a role in helping the parents."
