The Impassioned Pleas of Jeffrey R. Holland

In a speech given during this month's General Conference, LDS apostle Elder Jeffrey R. Holland spoke passionately about poverty and the need for members to give to the poor and needy, through fast offerings and other means. Titled "Are We Not All Beggars?", the speech featured Elder Holland's usual confident inflection and timely pauses that it make it almost impossible for audiences to not pay attention. But one moment in particular stood out to me. 

Shortly before concluding his talk, Elder Holland took the time to openly admit that although he had strong feelings about the need to give to the poor and needy, the blessings he's had in his life have allowed him to never have to be one of them. He went so far as to say the words:

"I have never been poor, nor do I even know how the poor feel."

How powerful and refreshing it is to hear an apostle of the Lord openly admit that he doesn't have all the answers, and that he can't possibly pretend to know what these people are going through. 

By itself this sentence means very little--many in our class could probably say the same thing. But combined with his powerful plea to take our abundance and give to those that lack, you know that it comes from a place of compassion in spite of what he doesn't know or understand. He's appealing directly to our pathos.

In his famous address at BYU titled "Remember Lot's Wife," Elder Holland similarly admitted that he too was guilty of "looking back" and not looking forward, sharing that he had asked his own wife at one point if they should just give up.

In admitting his weaknesses, Elder Holland allows each of us to recognize and forgive our own, empowering us to move forward and not look back.

"Oh good"

If I was asked to give one word describing Elder Holland it would easily be, blunt. No sugar frosting, no cherry on top, not the slightest been of gooey, cheesy, fluff that we so often want to hear in talks. He says it plain and simple. Because of that he is easily one of the most popular speakers in the Mormon world.

Marion G Romney said “I always know when I am speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost because I always learn something from what I've said" This is something I believe Elder Holland would agree with. He starts out simply, asking the audience to be respectful, something not often said across the pulpit. By doing this he is setting a serious tone and establishing his Ethos for the whole rest of the meeting, not just his talk. He then continues to a topic that we all know to be a serious one, reinforcing the tone he previously set.

Elder Holland mainly uses Logos throughout this entire talk, speaking of doctrine, telling stories and research studies all about the seriousness of human intimacy. But he doesn't only use logos. At one specific point he really hit me hard, pulling out the Pathos in his argument. He is talking about the seriousness of purity and how it is the worst sin other than murder. He then compares sexual transgression to the taking of a life and how in control we all are when it comes to taking care of other people's lives. We don't walk up to someone and put a gun to their head and pull the trigger hoping the gun won't go off and think;
"Oh good, I didn't go all the way"
To me, this is the point where his Ethos is the strongest. This, I believe, would be one of those "inspired one liners" that Neal A. Maxwell was talking about.

Through his use of Ethos, Pathos, and Logos Elder Holland is one of the most straight forward and powerful speakers out there, and that is definitely an example of that.

Clear and Important

“Of Souls, Symbols and Sacraments,” was delivered by Jeffery R. Holland to Brigham Young University. He uses speech that is virtuous and lofty. He is clear, succinct and direct in the subject matter proposed. He delivered this talk with the power of the Holy Spirit, so his audience could be moved by the influence of God.

“That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord,” Apostle Paul states in 1 Corinthians 1:31. Apostle Paul warns the saints against worldly words and encourages glorifying the Lord. Jeffery R. Holland follows this theme and counsel in his devotional talk delivered to students at Brigham Young University. Just as Apostle Paul is concerned for the people of Corinth years ago, Apostle Jeffery R. Holland is reaching out to the people of this time at Brigham Young University. Each Apostle lends the audience to a higher level, a spiritual level of thinking with the vocabulary and word choices. The literary devices used pull the listeners from earthly thinking to an eternal view.

Jeffrey R. Holland was clear and to the point. He had done a quick introduction that had made me feel of more importance to him as he said, “Indeed, your growth and happiness and development in the life you are now living and in the life you will be living in the days and decades ahead are the central and most compelling motivation in my daily professional life.”  Then, he approached a subject that was sensitive using direct language that could not be misunderstood. As Elder George A. Smith encouraged, “…the first thing should be plainly and simply to communicate to them the first principles that we receive, in the best possible manner” (Preach My Gospel.)

As I read Jeffery R. Hollands talk I noticed how he taught with the power of the Spirit. He used other tools such as examples in the lives of others, scripture and testimonies, but weaved into the fabric of his subject was the Spirit testifying of the truth of his words. Neal A Maxwell quoted Joseph Smith conveying, “Thus Holy Scripture and the words of living prophets occupy a privileged position; they are the key to teaching by the Spirit.” Teaching by the Spirit was imperative as the subject matter was sensitive. I feel as though my soul has been converted once again with the influence of the Spirit.

Ascribing Divine Authority

In Mormon rhetorical theory, it is common for the speaker to call attention to the listener to not attribute the thoughts and feelings that they are having to themselves, but rather, to Deity Himself. Elder Neal A Maxwell when speaking about teaching quoted Brigham Young who said, “Anything besides that influence (the Holy Spirit), will fail to convince any person of the truth of the Gospel of salvation.” It is this focus of Mormon rhetoric that becomes so powerful. The turning of the audience towards the Godhead itself allows each individual to connect what they are thinking and feeling as divinely appointed.

Photo from: sites.lib.byu.edu

In 1989, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland spoke in a BYU devotional address he entitled, “Of Souls, Sacraments, and Symbols”. In this address, Elder Holland spoke to the student body about a difficult topic that most speakers usually avoid. During this address he specifically follows the Mormon rhetoric tradition of focusing on the Holy Spirit as a source of support as well as a source of authority.

Elder Holland opens his address by humbly stating, “I always need the help and sustaining Spirit of the Lord to succeed at such times, but I especially feel the need for that spiritual help today.” What are the effects of such a statement? Here is an example of reference to deity to help him with the subject he is about to speak on. The rhetoric behind this is powerful because it is humble in the sense that he admits inadequacy and his reliance on God, but at the same time connects that if he is speaking with the help of God, he is speaking with God’s divine stamp of approval.

Near the end of his talk, Elder Holland again focuses on deity, saying, “That we may ‘come unto Christ’ for the fullness of soul and symbol and sacrament he offers us, I pray…”
So here is one source behind the power of his narrative. His entire purpose of the subject is to lead us to God and for his speech to have divine support. It speaks to the listener that his thoughts and feelings that are from God. The premise behind this is a powerful one. After listening to him speak, the question is, is this true? Are you drawing closer to God with his words? The answer is for the listener to decide. 

Can one be both clear and complex?

Rhetorical clarity and simplicity has been considered one of the most important characteristics to great Mormon public speaking. Paul, an Apostle who was known as having the roar of a Lion, seems to endorse a more simple form of speaking. In first Corinthians he seems to imply that speaking or preaching with complex rhetorical form diminishes God’s ability to work through an individual. There seems to be a “GET OUT OF THE WAY” theme in Paul’s teachings. Say a few simple words and the spirit will do the rest.

This sentiment continues in the Church today. We are taught to share briefly and from the heart like Elder Smith mentioned in his article. We are taught to be clear in our discussions, teachings, and preaching’s. I believe that this is right.

Can one be both clear and complex? As I have read through Elder Hollands and Elder Maxwells sermons, I feel like they do just that. These Apostles speak and write with a spiritual clarity but have obvious rhetorical complexities. As professor Burton mentions, it is those complexities that makes demands on the listener and engages with them. Elder Holland and Elder Maxwell have found a way to create complex rhetorical form to illustrate gospel principles clearly. Understand the principles with great clarity is the main purpose. The simplicity of the writing should be irrelevant if it is easy to understand.

Elder Holland’s insight on “Sacraments” is one that is not commonly discussed within the church. He describes Sacraments as more than the just the ordinance of the Lord’s Super. “The Sacrament is only one of many such moments when we formally take the hand of God and feel his divine power.” This doctrinal complexity is taught clearly and in a way one can understand. Elder Holland was able to dive into technical insights and symbolism that allowed the reader and listener to be engaged in a personal way. Being able to influence the listener in an engaging way shows its level of clarity and power.

The Speakers Credibility

One of the most important rhetorical devices an orator can use to captivate their audience is ethos. Simply put ethos is a means of setting ethical appeal, or developing your character before you begin your speech. Developing your ethos is a time where you convince your audience that you are worth listening to. Elder Holland is one of my favorite speakers to listen to and the reason why is because he develops his credibility with his sincerity and kindness before he begins his message.

In the talk Souls, Symbols, and Sacrament Elder Holland begins his talk by saying “This responsibility to speak to you never gets any easier”. Right off the bat he starts developing ethos by explaining that, not only is it his responsibility to speak to the audience but it is also a very difficult thing. This helps the audience have trust in him because it reminds us that he is in a position of leadership but also because he has experience in talking of matters that are difficult to hear. His comment also helps us feel compassion for him because it is his obligation to speak of difficult things. By setting this stage the audience is captivated and ready to listen.

The next step Elder Holland takes in developing his ethos is by helping the audience feels like they are loved and cared for by him. He says “Your hopes and dreams become ever more important to me the longer I am at BYU. Indeed, your growth and happiness and development in the life you are living…. Are most compelling motivation in my daily professional life”. It is obvious by his rhetoric that he loves his audience and spends much time in thought and prayer over their current circumstance.  The audience knows that it is their growth and happiness that motivate him.

He continues developing his credibility through the rest of his talk by talking of his love for them, and his desire that they follow his counsel in following the law of chastity and remaining sexually pure. I think that this is why Elder Holland is such an amazing speaker, he is a man we can trust, a man that has developed credibility (ethos) by the long hours of praying an thinking about those that he addresses. When he speaks, we listen because through all of his years of being an Apostle we have come to trust in him and leader.  

Best Lesson Is a Conversation

“Of Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments” A speech given by now Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1988, then acting as President of Brigham Young University,  is a plea and cry for to students to find it within themselves to stay pure in all forms of sexuality. Elder Holland is known for his eloquence and vibrant ability to show an increase in love towards you as he lovingly rebukes and belittles you for the sins that grasp us each day. 

He brings the essence of a great coach that as he has mentioned before in conference talks is to get in your face a little and singe your eyebrows. Yet at the same time showing a sense of faith in us that we can overcome our daily struggles and short comings. 

Elder Holland makes it a point in this speech to teach us the “why” behind being sexually pure and not the specific dos and don’ts  of church doctrine. He presents through his speaking a personal desire within each of us to be better. He acknowledges the fact that we are human beings and we fall short. He expresses his understanding of where we may be currently in regards to his current subject matter.  

His ability to allow you to feel as if he is speaking to you directly is truly an art and gift. As if you were sitting face to face with him in a personal interview. Scared out of your mind because of the intensity and passion he posses, and knowing that its all because he sincerely wants you to be successful. Some how and someway he finds a way to have a conversation with you. Its far from the feeling of being lectured to. Rather he involves you into feeling that you are apart of something bigger. 

Elder Holland may appear to be speaking and giving a lecture, but he has master the ability to do so and simultaneously help us feel we are apart of a great conversation. 

Rhetoric Should Match the Audience

Rhetorical Theory Analyzed

In his address, “Teaching by the Spirit – The Language of Inspiration,” Elder Neal A. Maxwell establishes rhetorical theories LDS speakers and teachers can utilize to effectively inspire their audiences. One of those theories is the need to base one’s remarks around the intended listeners, and to do so with authentic care for their wellbeing:

“…If we already care deeply about those to be taught, it is so much easier for the Lord to inspire us to give customized counsel and emphasis to those we teach,” Maxwell said.

The notion of customized counsel for the intended audience is a powerful form of rhetoric. The most changing and memorable sermons of my lifetime were all ones where I felt the message was directed to me; that the speaker prayed specifically to know what I needed to hear, to know what I needed to be instructed to do. Because I knew the speaker had spent time seeking inspiration on my behalf and cared if I actually followed it, I was much more likely to take he or she’s words to heart.

Rhetorical Device Analyzed

Elder Holland’s address, “Of Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments,” employs many rhetorical devices to capture the listeners’ attention and maintain the level of reverence such a sacred topic requires. What stood out most to me came before he got to the heart of his message, however. The way he introduced his topic and cautioned the listener had me studying the first paragraph of Human Intimacy, especially these lines:

“It would be better not to address the topic at all than to damage it with casualness or carelessness. Indeed, it is against such casualness and carelessness that I wish to speak.”

Elder Holland’s use of repetition with the words “casualness” and “carelessness” evokes a powerful call to action in listeners. By stressing both of them twice in his introduction, Elder Holland alerts his listeners to the importance of his topic and gently but definitively demands their attention.

If he were to have demanded, “listen to me” or “don’t act immaturely because I’m talking about sex,” the feeling in the Marriott Center would have been entirely different. Instead, his intentional use of simple words with repeated endings lulls listeners into a spirit of reverence akin to that of which such a topic necessitates.

the SPIRIT

In every talk given in church, the speaker always pray that the Spirit will be there to take their talk to the hearts of the people.  This is a common theme in almost every talk, that we' will be able to learn by the Spirit.  In Elder Neal A. Maxwell's talk Teaching by the Spirit - "The Language of Inspiration", we read about how important it is that we prepare.  When we are prepared we are able to be better instruments in the Lord's hands so that we may convey the message to the people.

In Elder Jeffrey R. Holland's talk Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments, this is exactly what Elder Maxwell was talking about.  Elder Holland is speaking specifically about human intimacy but is able to break it down to the importance of keeping it sacred.

Throughout Elder Holland's talk, we are able to see that he likes to quote others when speaking about certain topics.  He quotes from the Wall Street Journal, the scriptures, other apostles and prophets, and others.  For example, he's quoting 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?  For ye are brought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's."  He is able to use their words to back up the important topics he is discussing about the sacredness of human intimacy.

Elder Neal A. Maxwell makes a very good point about speaking and teaching by the Spirit.  He says, "Teaching does not remove responsibility from the teacher for prayerful and pondering preparation.  Teaching by the Spirit is not the equivalent of going on "automatic pilot."  We still need a carefully worked out flight plan.  Studying out something in our own minds involved the Spirit in our preparations as well as in our presentations."  I love this quote because it just sums up everything.  Since he has everything all prepared his is able to follow the promptings of the Spirit that are given to him so he is able to convey the correct message.

The Weight of the World

 Jeffrey R. Holland has an unparalleled ability to inspire personal responsibility in all who listen to his sermons.  In his adress "Of Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments"  he uses great imagery to call attention to his address.  Elder Holland  mentions that the future of this world's history will "be in [our] hands very soon.  Because of this, he encourages the rising generations to receive high and full educations to be contributors to society.

He furthers this responsibility by saying that this future "must be vigorously fought for".  These simple words call the audience to action.  To rise.  To fight. To struggle.  It all depends on us.  In essence he tells his audience and members in general that if we don't fight for our beliefs and values, they will be stripped from our hands by those "more bloody" than ours.

Later in the sermon, he mentions that unless we support his teachings, the sacredness of doctrine will be sullied and what would be a sacred experience could turn into a devastation.  We are not to be "casual" or "careless".  By addressing these consequences and the seriousness of the subject, especially by likening it to the weight of the world being in our hands, Jeffrey R. Holland is very successful in calling his audience to attention and to immediately start to apply what he is teaching.

In reading his sermon, as soon as he mentioned that the future would be in my hands, I started thinking about carrying the weight of the world.  As soon as he mentioned that we should not treat the gospel casually or carelessly, I really paid attention to his words.  I felt personally warned and personally responsible to carry out whatever his message was as soon as he started speaking.

Jeffrey R. Holland used the same tactics in a similar sermon addressed to Temple Square missionaries that I was privileged to be a part of.  The first thing that he said to us was that the brethren pray for us sisters every day, because we are carrying out part of what they have been called to do, but do not have time for.  We have been called to fill a part of their shoes.  Instantaneously, I felt inspired and responsible to carry out part of the work of an apostle and to do it in the way an apostle would do it.

That is why Jeffrey R. Holland is so successful- he commits his audience before he shares his message.

Plain, Dignified, Spiritual

          There have been many men and women throughout history using their words to shape and influence generations. Some of these men and women use their oratory skills to gain personal advantage while others use their skills for the greater good of mankind. In the Mormon culture, we have our own unique view of effective public speaking and communication, which is combined with rhetoric to deliver our sermons and speeches. 

 

         I will look at the sermon delivered by Jeffery R. Holland titled “Of Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments” delivered in 1988, and how it embodies the Mormon Rhetorical Theory and the way he uses rhetoric throughout his talk. The Mormon Rhetorical Theory is summed up in that we believe in communicating and speaking in simple, dignified language that is plain to the audience, and allows the medium of the Spirit to testify and inspire. Elder Holland uses such throughout his talk, for example he says, “The purchase price for our fullness of joy—body and spirit eternally united—is the pure and innocent blood of the Savior of this world” (88:3). This simple, but powerful truth illustrates the high cost for our joy at the expense of our Savior and plays on the emotion of the audience, giving a reminder that we are not our own. Elder Holland, as president of BYU at the time, knew how to effectively reach and address his audience with such a serious topic at hand. 

        Being very plain, but using dignified language, he logically explains the importance of personal purity while complementing this with the emotional consequences of messing with this fundamental doctrine. For example he says, “No murder here. Well, maybe not. But sexual transgression? “He that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.” Sounds near fatal to me” (88:2). Using the scriptural allusion, he drives the point across that sexual transgression brings about fatality. And using the juxtaposition between the terms of sexual transgression and murder, the audience can make a correlation that may not have been apparent at first, that sexual transgression and murder have the same severity as it brings about the same consequences of fatality. Through his use of rhetoric and plain, dignified language, Elder Holland appropriately addresses his audience and delivers an impactful talk.

A Personal Connection

From the very beginning of Elder Holland’s talk, “Of Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments,” there is a strong appeal to pathos. Elder Holland strives to make an emotional connection to the audience by opening with how difficult speaking to us is for him, humanizing him to an audience that views him as such an incredible disciple of Christ. He continues on to say, “Indeed, your growth and happiness and development in the life you are now living and in the life you will be living in the days and decades ahead are the central and most compelling motivation in my daily professional life. I care very much about you now and forever. Everything I know to do at BYU is being done with an eye toward who and what you are, and who and what you can become.” This statement creates a sense that the speaker is not just someone who has come to deliver a talk, he truly cares about the audience and wants them to feel of his love and the devotion he has towards helping them become the best person they can be. In effect, the audience becomes more drawn into what he is going to tell them because they feel of his concern for them.

Elder Holland’s appeal to pathos continues throughout the rest of his talk. He constantly addresses the audience as you, or your body, making it personal for all who are listening or reading. One of the most powerful appeals to pathos is made when he states, “Our very souls are involved and at stake.” By using the word “Our,” Elder Holland breaks through the fourth wall, the barrier between speaker and audience; he has now included himself in this group of people.. He is not just talking at the students of BYU; he is allowing them to consider the fact that this involves everyone, even the general authorities that we stand in awe of. When the audience gains this new perspective on who they are listening to, they feel more connected and on a more similar level to this apostle of the Lord.

By creating a strong appeal to pathos the audience becomes more connected to Elder Holland and his talk becomes more personal to each member of the audience.