The Rio I Zone met in conference today in the Jardim Botânico chapel, presided over by President Johnson and conducted by Elder Richard Smoot, zone leader. President Johnson interviewed during the morning session while instructions and talks were being given on the following subjects: a history of Brazil, by Sister Jin; the why and how of group meetings, by Elder Marsh; a testimony of a recent convert, by Irmão Joaquim Rodrigues; member work, by Elder McGrath; self-discipline, by Elder Richins; companion relations, by my companion, Elder Stewart; the new missionary, by a new missionary, Elder White; and a report and counsel from the zone leader.
Stewardship reports given by the four district leaders indicated slackness in meeting established goals and guidelines.
This is the first zone conference in which we have sung in English. Sister Johnson sang a special musical number, “If With All Your Heart,” in the morning session. I accompanied on the organ. Elder Henderson sang “The Lord’s Prayer” as a solo in the afternoon session.
Following a lovely meal prepared by the Relief Society sisters of the Jardim Botânico Branch, the second session with testimonies and President Johnson's address was held.
President Johnson interviewed me Thursday afternoon instead of during the conference itself. Of course he emphasized the importance of the proselyting work, but he tried to impress upon me the importance of the historian's job. "A bishopric is no stronger than its clerk," he repeated three times, "a mission no stronger than its historian." He said he knew whereof he spoke because of much experience with various clerks in bishoprics and stake presidencies. Out of the books we will be judged, and so as the essential ordinances and the faithfulness of the people are recorded here on earth by duly appointed and authorized recorders, so will the records be made in heaven. The priesthood holds this power because what is bound on earth is bound in heaven.
The President promised I would not have to spend my whole mission as historian.
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