The world has departed from Salt Lake City, but the work of the Church continues. The message being conveyed to visitors near and far is that the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored on Earth and is waiting to help individuals and families.

For as many favorable news articles were generated by the 2002 Winter Games, the true measure of success lies in an individual's response to the invitation to "Come unto Christ." The Church does not grow because of current events. It grows because dedicated individuals take time from their own lives to share the gospel with others.

President Spencer W. Kimball noted in a conference address in April 1974: "If there were no converts, the Church would shrivel and die on the vine. But perhaps the greatest reason for missionary work is to give the world its chance to hear and accept the gospel."

In another address, he said, "We are not interested in numbers. They are secondary. We are interested in warning the world. . . . Our goal is nothing less than the penetration of the entire world. . . . Evangelization of the world does not mean that all men will respond, but all men must be given the opportunity to respond as they are confronted with the Christ." (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 545.)

If you are preparing for a mission or helping someone else to prepare, you are already strengthening the worldwide cause. Here are some ways you may aid the missionary effort:

Live your religion. It does not help to lengthen your stride if you are not in step with the commandments. The world, it seems, is becoming well-acquainted with the Church's teachings and standards. People expect members to live what they believe and profess. Many individuals have been led to the waters of baptism first by observing the way Latter-day Saints conduct their lives.

Study the gospel. We are not expected to be experts on all subjects, but we should be truthful and accurate on the basic beliefs and doctrines. All of us should strengthen our testimonies of the reality of the Savior, His life and Atonement, and the restoration of His Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith and its continuing mission today, under the divine leadership of prophets and apostles.

Love all people. Show the same interest in those who aren't members of the Church and less-active friends as you do for active Church members. Do not shrink from gospel conversations, but add your perspective to events and topics that may trouble others. Help others to understand why you believe as you do. Be prepared to bear testimony — at appropriate times and as the Spirit directs. Remember, the apostle Paul declared, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth." (Romans 1:16.)

Keep scriptures and Church literature handy. If you are uncomfortable explaining your own feelings, share an article from a Church publication or a favorite scripture. Use the the Pass-Along Cards to generate interest in Church values. Give copies of the Book of Mormon to those you feel are truly searching for answers to life's challenges. Be willing to refer friends and associates to stake or full-time missionaries.

Prepare for full-time missionary service. As interest in the Church grows, so does the need for full-time missionaries. Our priesthood leaders remind us regularly of the great demand for single and couple missionaries worldwide. Get your life and finances in order so that you can respond to a call when it is issued. There is much work to do and we need to be part of it.