Elder Soares speaks at 2023 Chaplain Training Seminar

Speaking to several hundred Latter-day Saint chaplains and their spouses, Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said the need for the ministry of chaplains has never been greater.

“Now, more than ever, your ministry is needed. In a time where religiosity is waning and secularism is gaining, the need for chaplains is paramount,” the Apostle said. “I would like to leave you with some words of comfort and my witness of the ‘God of all comfort.’”

Elder Soares delivered his message as the concluding speaker of the 2023 Chaplain Training Seminar, an annual event held in the Conference Center Theater each October following general conference for chaplains endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Elder Soares was joined at the annual chaplain seminar Tuesday by Elder Matthew L. Carpenter, who serves as a General Authority Seventy adviser to the Church’s Military Advisory Committee, and his wife, Sister Shelly B. Carpenter. Elder Lance B. Wickman, an emeritus General Authority and veteran of the Vietnam War, also delivered remarks.

Chaplains and their spouses sing happy birthday to Elder Ulisses Soares.

On a fun note, the seminar was temporarily delayed so the audience could sing “Happy Birthday” to Elder Soares, who celebrated his 65th birthday on Oct. 2.