David A. Bednar addresses young adults at USU

David A. Bednar, an apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, spoke to the youth at the Spectrum, Sunday night.

He was joined on the stand by his wife Susan Bednar, Utah State University President Noelle Cockett, Student Body President Jaren Hunsaker, and other area authorities for the Church.

Bednar was called to be an apostle Oct. 7, 2004. Before serving in that capacity, he was the president of Brigham Young University-Idaho from 1997 to 2004.

Some felt that Bednar’s previous job helped him relate to the youth better.

Carson Summers, a biology major, said, “Anytime I can hear an apostle speak its a good opportunity. He has a lot of experience with people our age. He is used to teaching young adults.It was cool to see that side of him come out.”

The Logan Institute of Religion provided music for the event. The student choir performed under the direction of Allen Matthews, Institute choir director.

Many students also helped volunteer at the event by handing out Institute pamphlets or being ushers. Daniel Barlay-Borelay, a human movement major, helped usher at the event.

“It was neat to see lots of people that I see from around campus. I think something like this brings us closer and gives us something to talk about,” Barlay-Borelay said.

Bednar opened up his time to the audience. The audience was able to text in whatever questions they wanted to ask Bednar. He then randomly chose a few for him and his wife to answer. Some of the topics he covered included studying the scriptures, dating, marriage and other church related topics.

Jay Haukes, chemistry major, enjoyed being able to stay anonymous but also have questions answered.

“Our generation is very technological. So to ask whatever you wanted over messaging was a good idea. You felt like you were participating even with such large crowd,” Haukes said.

Having a church authority come to the Utah State campus provided an opportunity for church members and nonmembers to experience something together.

Hannah Steed, elementary/special education major, said this creates a good feeling for the campus.

“It shows we are important enough to have a apostle of the Lord come speak to us. I think it will put out a general good vibe for everyone here. It’s also nice in preparation for the upcoming general conference,” Steed said.

—shelby.black@aggiemail.usu.edu

@shelbsterblack