Elder Ned B. Roueche: Many souls await awakening 'good news' brings
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Because of an incident that happened when he was a young man, Elder Ned
B. Roueche knows "what it means to have a friend, a responsibility and to
be nurtured by the good word of God." Elder Roueche of the Seventy applied
those three elements identified by President Gordon B. Hinckley to his own
experience.
Speaking at the priesthood session Saturday evening, he said he was asked to perform a dance number in an MIA floor show with his partner. The following Sunday morning he attended Church in his ward for the first time since he was ordained a deacon. A committee of brethren who worked with men older than the normal Aaronic Priesthood age took him under their wing. Later, he served a mission in Mexico, which, he said, gave him the foundation upon which to build the rest of his life.
Having been in such a position, he said: "There are many that do not understand what is missing in their lives and hunger for those tender feelings that come from knowing the love of our Savior. They are good people who lie dormant as it were, awaiting the awakening of their souls by those who bring the 'good news.' There are others who watch us, observe our examples and say, "I like what I see; how can I become a part of it?'
"I invite you brethren of the priesthood, both young and old, to look around you, seek out and extend a warm hand of friendship to those less-active and non-members. Invite them to participate with you. Become their friend and you will make a difference and bless their lives for generations to come."
He invited all to come and enjoy the great blessings of the fullness of the restored gospel.
"That evening, so long ago when I was invited to share my talent, the door opened to a wonderful new world of friends and activity in the Church," he said. "I am grateful for those who reached out with a warm hand of fellowship, invited me in, nurtured me and blessed my life."
