Financial crises, angels and Walden Pond were among the topics discussed in the 178th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Saturday.

The global financial crisis was mentioned by at least three speakers, who encouraged members to follow established principles of saving, living modestly and getting out of debt while taking care of those in need around them.

Opening the conference, President Thomas S. Monson told those gathered that in the past six months he has dedicated three temples, in Brazil, Panama and Idaho, and land has been purchased for five more in Calgary, Alberta; Cordoba, Argentina; the greater Kansas City, Mo. area; Philadelphia, Pa.; and Rome, Italy.

Monson also encouraged those beset by personal trials.

"We love you and pray for you," he said. "Our Heavenly Father is mindful of each one of us and our needs."

Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles talked in depth about Henry David Thoreau's two years living at Walden Pond, encouraging church members to find "the spiritual benefits of a simplified lifestyle."

Following Thoreau's philosophy that there are only four basic human needs -- food, clothing, shelter and fuel -- Perry encouraged members to live the Word of Wisdom, dress modestly and live modestly.

"We do not want to harm our mortal body, as it is a gift from God," Perry said. "Modest dress is a quality of mind and heart. ... Our housing should be determined by our income, not the house across the street."

In the current housing crisis, Church members should live within their income, stay out of debt and save for a rainy day, Perry said.

"Members of well-managed families don't pay interest," Perry said. "They earn it."

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf spoke of the infinite power of hope.

"We learn to cultivate hope the same way we learn to walk, one step at a time," Uchtdorf said.

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin said everyone must experience sorrow in their life, and spoke of the joy learned from his autistic grandson.

"The way we react to adversity can be a major factor in how happy and successful we can be," Wirthlin said.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland spoke of angels both mortal and immortal, saying that faithful members need not fear the problems of the world because they will be aided by these angels.

"The Lord has said he will fight our battles, our children's battles, and our children's children's battles," Holland said.