When we face challenges, it’s easy to feel like the world is against us — like we’re stuck in the middle of a storm with no way out. But every once in a while, someone reminds us that the storms of life are not meant to destroy us, but to help us grow stronger in faith and purpose.
That’s exactly what happened on Sunday, October 19, when Elder James W. McConkie III, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, visited Cumorah Academy. His message about Jesus Christ calming the seas in the Gospel of Mark touched hearts, inspired faith, and reminded everyone that even when the winds feel too strong, peace is always within reach.
Learning How to Navigate the Storms of Life
Elder McConkie was invited to speak in Sacrament Meeting, where he shared insights from Mark chapter 4, recounting how the Savior calmed the storm when His disciples feared for their lives. He reminded everyone that, just as the disciples once cried out “Master, carest thou not that we perish?”, we too often feel abandoned during difficult moments.
But Elder McConkie testified that the Savior never sleeps — He is always watching over us, even when we cannot see Him.
“And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39)
His message was clear: Jesus Christ can calm the storms of life — both the ones outside us and the ones raging within.
After the meeting, Elder McConkie also conducted a Q&A session, where he answered questions submitted by students in advance. This moment turned into an open and heartfelt exchange about real-life concerns — from how to make difficult choices, to understanding God’s timing, and how to recognize His voice amid confusion or fear.
He emphasized that seeking and receiving God’s orientation should be at the center of every major decision — whether it’s about education, relationships, or career. True peace, he said, comes when we align our will with God’s and trust His plan even when the path seems uncertain.
“It was very special to learn from a General Authority,” said Allanes Matzenbacher da Silva, from Brazil. “I could learn a lot about receiving personal revelation for my life.”
For many, this visit was not just another Sunday service — it was a spiritual turning point.
Stories that Strengthen Faith
One of the most inspiring moments came from Catalina Roto, a student from Argentina, who shared how deeply the experience touched her heart.
“My experience this Sunday was great! I was traveling in Budapest and I knew I’d be a few minutes late for the meeting. I have a wound on my foot, so I couldn’t walk fast. And I started feeling late — not just in time, but in life. It felt like I was always so close to where I wanted to be, but couldn’t get there.
But when I finally arrived, they were just finishing the hymn and Elder McConkie was about to begin his talk. I felt so thankful. It made me realize that maybe in life I’ll arrive late sometimes, but I’ll still get there — and I’ll try to make the most of every opportunity, just like I did that Sunday. I’m really grateful for having these experiences at Cumorah.”
Her story beautifully mirrors the theme of overcoming the storms of life — trusting that even when we feel behind or broken, God is guiding every step we take.
A Legacy of Learning and Leadership
Elder James W. McConkie III is no stranger to the Czech Republic. In fact, his connection to this part of the world runs deep. He served as a missionary in Czechoslovakia in the 1990s, and years later returned with his wife, Laurel McConkie, to preside over the Czech/Slovak Mission.
He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy in 2022, and since then, has continued his lifelong mission to teach others about Jesus Christ and the power of His gospel. Elder McConkie graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in history in 1995 and later earned a law degree from the George Washington University National Law Center in 1999. Currently, he serves in the Central Europe Presidency.
His visit to Cumorah Academy was part of his ongoing ministry to strengthen faith and character among young people across Europe.
Where Faith and Education Meet
One of the greatest blessings of studying at Cumorah Academy is the chance to learn from inspiring leaders like Elder McConkie. Imagine being in class, and suddenly hearing that a General Authority Seventy will teach a lesson that day. How would you feel? Excited? Curious? Maybe even a little nervous?
That’s exactly how students felt as they prepared to meet someone who had served the Lord across continents and cultures.
Cumorah Academy, located in the heart of Europe, is a place where students from over 50 countries come together to learn about leadership, business, and English, all built upon the foundation of Christlike principles.
Though not everyone on campus shares the same faith, every student learns the importance of moral values, personal growth, and service. When Church leaders like Elder McConkie visit, students see first-hand how education and faith can coexist beautifully.
“Elder McConkie’s message was inspired,” said Ismael Rojas, from Argentina. “We needed to hear that. We will take his teachings in our life backpacks and share them with our fellow beings.”
That’s what Cumorah Academy is all about — learning how to carry light into the world, no matter where you come from or where you go next.
Lessons That Last Beyond the Classroom
Throughout his visit, Elder McConkie encouraged students to seek personal revelation:
To trust that God’s answers come in His timing, not ours. He spoke about his own mission experiences. Times when he had to make difficult choices, and moments when he didn’t see the full picture until years later.
These lessons resonated deeply with students who are just beginning to define their future paths. After all, the journey from uncertainty to clarity often feels like navigating through the storms of life. But as Elder McConkie reminded them, those storms don’t last forever. They often lead us exactly where we need to be.
His visit also reminded students of the long-standing relationship between Cumorah Academy and Church leaders. In the Winter Semester of 2024, Elder Jack N. Gerard visited the campus. In 2022, students had the unique opportunity to attend a devotional presided over by Elder David A. Bednar, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
These moments create lasting spiritual anchors for young adults seeking to build a life centered on purpose and service.
Calming Your Own Storms of Life
What do you do when life feels overwhelming — when the waves are high and the wind is loud? Elder McConkie’s message gives a timeless answer: turn to Jesus Christ.
He is the one who says, “Peace, be still.”
At Cumorah Academy, students are reminded every day that leadership begins with faith, and that personal success is only meaningful when guided by eternal principles. Whether you’re making big decisions about your future, feeling uncertain about your path, or struggling with personal challenges, the same truth applies — the Savior can calm your storms of life.
All you need to do is let Him in.
Take the First Step Toward Your Own Transformation
Just like the students at Cumorah, you can experience life-changing growth surrounded by people who inspire and uplift you. You can find your purpose, build your skills, and strengthen your faith.
So, what are you waiting for? 🌟
Apply now for an unforgettable semester at Cumorah Academy — a place where faith meets leadership, and where young adults from around the world discover how to calm the storms of life and find peace in their journey.
Come learn, grow, and become part of a global community that believes in your potential to lead, serve, and change the world.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
