*Sunday afternoon session

Elder M. Russell Ballard spoke to the saints about the atonement and the joys it can bring to those who are faithful.

He said the atonement is a sweet gift that can bring comfort after losing a loved one.

Elder Ballard shared his recent experience coping with the loss of his young grandson.

The Savior suffered willingly, and because of His suffering people are able to receive the precious gifts of repentance, baptism and the Holy Ghost, he said.

"Without the atonement, none of these blessing would be available and we could not return to live with Him," Elder Ballard said.

Every soul is precious, he said, and he encouraged members to be willing to share the message of the gospel with others. The atonement can ultimately bring joy to every soul.

"The atonement was infinite and eternal, yet it applies individually, one person at a time," he said.
Copyright Brigham Young University 4 Apr 2004