Elder Ulisses Soares Explores ‘Jesus Christ: The True Vine’ Theme

Elder Ulisses Soares spoke during the Saturday afternoon session of the April 2026 general conference. His address focused on abiding in Christ and the metaphor of the True Vine.

The vine and the branches

Soares cited Jesus’ declaration from John 15. He described the Savior as the source of spiritual nourishment.

The apostle said branches cannot bear fruit apart from the vine. He emphasized that remaining connected is necessary for spiritual growth.

Abiding as a conscious choice

He taught that abiding in Christ requires a continuous, deliberate commitment. It does not erase life’s burdens.

Through grace, those burdens become lighter. Taking on Christ’s yoke provides strength to endure trials and sorrows.

Voices, tangled vines and spiritual survival

Elder Soares warned about competing voices in the world. He said distracting influences can form “tangled vines” that lead to spiritual loss.

He urged listeners to remain rooted in the gospel. Staying connected to the True Vine, he said, is essential to spiritual survival.

Key themes and language

• Central scripture: John 15:1, 5.
• Main concepts: abiding in Christ, spiritual nourishment, grace, endurance.
• Metaphors used: vine and branches, tangled vines, taking upon Christ’s yoke.

About Elder Ulisses Soares

Soares is a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He was sustained on March 31, 2018.

He was born in São Paulo, Brazil. He is the first South American to serve in the quorum.

He and his wife, Rosana Fernandes Soares, served in the Brazil Rio de Janeiro Mission. They began dating after their missions at a stake dance, and they have three children.

Before full-time church service, Soares worked as an accountant and auditor for multinational firms. He later served as director for temporal affairs in the Church area office in São Paulo.

Where to learn more

The remarks were delivered at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City during the 196th Annual General Conference on April 4, 2026. Filmogaz.com will carry further coverage of conference talks.

Readers can also find additional conference addresses and follow Elder Ulisses Soares on common social platforms for updates. The talk reinforced the themes of Jesus Christ, the True Vine and the call to abide in Christ.