Church-Endorsed Chaplains Feel Loved and “Seen” by Church Leaders at Annual Seminar

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, took part in a discussion at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in Salt Lake City during the 2026 Annual Chaplains’ Training Seminar on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026. Elder David P. Homer, a General Authority Seventy, and his wife, Sister Nancy D. Homer, joined them in the discussion.

At the seminar, Elder Bednar told Church-endorsed chaplains that the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve pray for them.

Karina Cooksey, now a second lieutenant and chaplain candidate, said she never imagined serving in the military. Even after she felt prompted to explore the U.S. Air Force Reserve, she tried to set the thought aside. She is the wife and mother of five, and she is pursuing a path she believes God called her to follow. The source describes that path as not easy.

When Elder Bednar made his statement about prayer, Cooksey found comfort in his words, a reminder that the Church’s support can reach people carrying hard callings (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Cooksey found great comfort in his words.

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