While all the ordinances of the Church focus on the atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ, the one that comes "more readily and more repeatedly than any other in our life" is the ordinance the Savior Himself initiated at the Last Supper, said Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.

Speaking Sunday morning, he said the sacrament with all its symbolism and imagery comes in what was called by President Joseph Fielding Smith, "the most sacred, the most holy, of all the meetings of the Church."Then Elder Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve added: "Perhaps we do not always attach that kind of meaning to our weekly sacramental service. How `sacred' and how `holy' is it? Do we see it as our passover, remembrance of our safety and deliverance and redemption?

"With so very much at stake, this ordinance commemorating our escape from the angel of darkness should be taken more seriously than it sometimes is."

He explained that the sacrament "is not something to `get over' so that the real purpose of a sacrament meeting can be pursued. This is the real purpose of the meeting," he emphasized. "And everything that is said or sung or prayed in those services should be consistent with the grandeur of this sacred ordinance."

Elder Holland stressed the importance of the sacrament hymn and said everyone should sing because it is an expression of gratitude like a prayer.

He also encouraged members of the Aaronic Priesthood who prepare, bless and pass the sacrament to do so worthily and reverently. He said it is appropriate for the young Aaronic Priesthood holders to wear a white shirt while participating in the sacrament service. He noted that he wasn't saying they should be in uniform. Rather, he explained, "how our young people dress can teach a holy principle to us all and it certainly can convey sanctity."

Referring to the sacrament prayers, Elder Holland pointed out that the principal word seems to be "remember."

"What is stressed in both prayers is that all of this is done in remembrance of Christ. In so participating we witness that we will always remember Him that we may always have His Spirit to be with us."

He gave several suggestions of things to remember about the Savior during the sacrament: His pre-mortal life and accomplishments, His mother and His earthly father Joseph, His miracles and teachings, and His delight in living.

Elder Holland also reminded that Christ called His disciples friends and said it would be appropriate for all to remember their friends and friends they need to make, and show compassion for others.

Continuing, Elder Holland said all the blessings that come from the Savior should be remembered and that, on some days, those who are having difficult times should remember His pains and afflictions.

"To those who stagger or stumble, He is there to steady and strengthen us," Elder Holland declared. "In the end He is there to save us and for all this He gave His life. However dim our days may seem, they have been darker for the Savior of the world."