Church News

How the new hymn ‘The Miracle’ teaches children about Christ’s miracles

Carly Ludlow — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:06:34 +0000

More than 12 years ago, an 11-year-old boy sat in Primary convinced that the hymn “The Miracle” had been written just for him.

In many ways, it had.

When Shawna Edwards, then a Primary music leader from Lehi, Utah, began composing the song, she wasn’t thinking of just one child. She was thinking of every child in her Primary.

Each month, the Primary children focused on a different gospel theme. In August, that theme was “Jesus is a God of miracles.” Edwards searched for a song that included that message but could not find one.

“There wasn’t a song out there that had that phrase in it,” Edwards said.

So she decided to write one herself.

The chance came during a cross-country drive as she took her son to medical school.

“I didn’t have a guitar,” she said. “I didn’t have an instrument at all, except my voice and a notebook.”

During the 20-hour drive, Edwards pieced together both the lyrics and the melody. She began with the familiar miracles of Jesus Christ, such as walking on water, healing the leper, giving sight to the blind and helping the lame walk.

But she knew the song needed to do more than recount miracles from long ago. She wanted today’s children to understand what those miracles meant for them.

“I will never forget the moment,” Edwards said. “It just came to me that there’s a very tight connection. A miracle that He performed for them, and for all of us, that impacts every minute, every hour, every day. That’s the Atonement.”

That realization transformed the song. Rather than focusing solely on Christ’s physical miracles, Edwards centered the hymn on His Atonement and the hope, healing and forgiveness it offers children every day.

After returning home, Edwards added the accompaniment and took the finished song back to her Primary.

She remembered the group of 11-year-old boys sitting in the back row who were normally unwilling to sing each week. As she wrote the hymn, she hoped to create something they would actually want to sing.

More than a decade later, Edwards recalled the moment the children first sang the hymn.

“When I got home and taught the song to them, the 11-year-old boys sang it with gusto,” said Edwards. “There was a boy on the back row, who was my next-door neighbor, who told his mom, ‘She wrote this for me.’”

Edwards has written many hymns, including “Because,” which was also added to the new global hymnbook “Hymns for Home and Church.” Her very first song, “Do You Have Room?” reached over 1.8 million views on YouTube.

While “The Miracle” is not Edwards’ first hymn to be published in the new hymnbook, she says there is something meaningful about the song, found in the simple phrase “Jesus is a God of miracles.”

“Every one of us needs miracles,” Edwards said. “We have things in our life that are really hard. We have things with our loved ones that are really hard, and to know that Jesus is a God of miracles and nothing is impossible to Him gives us this glorious hope — this eternal hope that these things will be better.”

Edwards continued that the Lord helped her in every aspect of writing the hymn.

“I wrote a little song,” she said. “The Lord multiplied it. He made it great. I have seen Him create miracles with very flawed efforts, just time and time again.”

The hymn teaches that Jesus Christ still works miracles today, and Edwards believes that message relates to everyone’s life.

“He can just make a miracle out of every good little thing we do,” she said.

"The Miracle"

1. Jesus walked upon the water.
He stilled the storm and calmed the angry sea.
With His hands He healed the leper;
He made the lame to walk, the blind to see.
He fed a thousand people with a loaf or two of bread;
And when a ruler’s daughter died, He raised her from the dead.

Jesus is a God of miracles;
Nothing is at all impossible to Him.
But I know this:
Of all His miracles, the most incredible must be
The miracle that rescues me.

2. Jesus bled and died to save me,
A price that only He could pay alone.
When He rose again, He gave me
The greatest gift the world has ever known;
So I can be forgiven ev’ry time that I repent,
And someday He will lift me up to live with Him again.

Jesus is a God of miracles;
Nothing is at all impossible to Him.
But I know this:
Of all His miracles, the most incredible must be
The miracle that rescues me.

3. I know He will walk beside me
And heal my wounds and calm my troubled heart,
Always there to bless and guide me—
My song at night, my bright and morning star.
His love and grace will never end; each day they bless anew.
My name is graven on His hands, and yours is too.

Jesus is a God of miracles;
Nothing is at all impossible to Him.
But I know this:
Of all His miracles, the most incredible must be
The miracle that rescues me.
The miracle that rescues you and me.

The Savior said, “I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands” (Isaiah 49:16). the nail marks on His hands are evidence of His great atoning sacrifice for all. He will always remember each of us.

10 new hymns released in ‘Hymns for Home and Church’

Author of new hymn ‘Because’ sees ‘miracles in every song’

Renowned poet Fanny Crosby’s ‘To God Be the Glory’ part of recent hymnbook addition

In case you missed it: President Oaks dedicates Belo Horizonte Brazil Temple, plus 9 more stories

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of Aug. 16-22, President Dallin H. Oaks dedicated the Belo Horizonte Brazil Temple on Sunday, Aug. 16.

Also on Sunday, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles dedicated the Cleveland Ohio Temple.

The Church’s Utah Area presidency members announced that Elder Bednar and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, will speak at the 2026 Utah Area Young Single Adult Conference devotional on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke to more than 15,000 attendees at BYU Education Week during the devotional on Tuesday, Aug. 18.

Primary General President Rosemary K. Chibota spoke to missionaries at the Provo Missionary Training Center about how the Lord is preparing something powerful for them.

In a series of social media videos, the Young Women general presidency discussed key learnings from studying the “For the Strength of Youth” guide.

The Church News reported on a livestream video by the Young Men general presidency that outlined how youth can keep spiritual momentum.

New exhibits, videos, tours and experiences are coming to Temple Square. In other temple news, ground was broken for the Huntsville Alabama Temple.

In this week’s Church News podcast, Elder Mark A. Bragg, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Church’s Family History Department and FamilySearch International, discusses the joy and peace found from family history.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. President Oaks dedicates Belo Horizonte Brazil Temple

On Sunday Aug. 16, President Oaks dedicated the Belo Horizonte Brazil Temple.

This marked President Oaks’ second temple dedication and the 12th temple for the country of Brazil.

“The temple is a house of the Lord, a house built for the sacred work of the Lord God of Israel, our Savior and our Redeemer, to prepare us for exaltation in the celestial kingdom of God,” said President Oaks.

2. Elder Bednar dedicates Cleveland Ohio Temple, bringing the house of the Lord ‘back home’ to northeast Ohio

The Cleveland Ohio Temple was dedicated on Sunday, Aug. 16, by Elder Bednar. This marks the second dedicated and operating temple in the state of Ohio. The Kirtland Temple, also in northeastern Ohio, is open to the public as a historic site.

“I cannot imagine a more important blessing than having greater access to the power of godliness through the ordinances of the temple,” said Elder Bednar.

3. Elder Bednar to speak at 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference devotional

Elder Bednar and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, will speak at the 2026 Utah Area Young Single Adult Conference devotional on Sunday, Sept. 13. As announced by the Utah Area Presidency, the devotional will take place at the Marriott Center at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.

4. Elder Kearon invites listeners to slow down and bask in the Savior’s promised peace — right now

During the BYU Education Week devotional, Elder Kearon urged attendees to “slow down.”

On Tuesday, Aug. 18, Elder Kearon addressed a packed Marriott Center for a devotional during the annual conference.

5. President Chibota speaks to missionaries of 4 sources of power

During a devotional at the Provo Missionary Training Center, President Chibota counseled missionaries to stay close to Jesus Christ throughout their missions.

President Chibota said the Lord is not simply interested in what the missionaries accomplish as they serve; “He is deeply interested in who you become on your mission.”

6. ‘Jesus Christ is your strength,’ Young Women general presidency shares from FSY guide

Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman, first counselor, Sister Tamara W. Runia, and second counselor, Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, discussed their learnings from the new FSY guide in a series of videos on social media.

Read about the Young Women general presidency’s live video series here.

What to watch on Aug. 30 for youth, parents and leaders for the new curriculum

What to know about the new ‘For the Strength of Youth' guide and Sunday youth curriculum

7. How youth can turn FSY’s spiritual momentum into lifelong discipleship

In a livestream social media video, the Young Men general presidency outlined how the new Sunday curriculum, weekly activities and daily gospel study can enable youth to walk with Jesus Christ every day.

8. New experiences coming to Temple Square

New videos, tours and experiences for guests at Temple Square will help visitors learn of Jesus Christ.

These include new exhibits in the Conference Center, projections on the Salt Lake Tabernacle’s domed ceiling and a new theater room in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.

9. Ground broken for Alabama’s second temple, to be ‘source of strength, light and hope’

After an Aug. 15 groundbreaking, the Huntsville Alabama Temple has now entered the construction phase.

Elder John D. Amos, a General Authority Seventy and member of the Church’s United States Southeast Area presidency, presided at the Saturday event.

10. Church News podcast, Episode 308: Elder Bragg on family history, records custodians and the gathering of Israel

On this episode of the Church News podcast, Elder Bragg discusses growing the family tree and the joy and peace that come from family history.

“We call it ‘spirit of Elijah,’ but it’s the Holy Ghost directing them in this role, that they feel a responsibility to protect records. And what it does, it allows us to find them and remember them and connect them to their modern-day family,” said Elder Bragg.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

See what Elder Bragg told archivists in Cambodia this week here.

Church News podcast, Episode 293: Elder Mark A. Bragg on how temple and family history unify families in Christ

Preserving family records is ‘profoundly humanitarian,’ Elder Bragg tells archivists in Cambodia

See the Church News week in review each Sunday

A move of faith leads one Latter-day Saint to her ancestors in South Carolina

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 11:00:00 +0000

On July 2, 2022, Vanessa Duerson and her husband packed up their family of three sons and moved from Utah to South Carolina.

No job awaited them. No family awaited them. She often refers to this move as a trek through the “wilderness” and one that required her family to trust in God.

“You read in the scriptures of Moses [crossing the Red Sea] and of the children of Israel crossing the Jordan River that the blessings don’t come until after the trial of your faith,” said Duerson reflecting on her cross-country move. “Sometimes you really have to get your feet wet before things part and open up. My husband and I have always really sought to do that.”

For Duerson and her husband, moving across the country was an act of faith. They believed it was something God was asking them to do, even though they could not yet see what would come from it.

Three weeks after arriving in South Carolina, an update to her Ancestry account appeared on her phone, prompting her to explore some of the website’s new features. Duerson began exploring the website and was shocked when she noticed a circle of ancestors hovering over the very region her family had just moved to.

“You could call it a starting point to water parting,” she said.

This discovery prompted her to dive deep into her family history. She got right to work finding deep ancestral roots all around the South Carolina area.

Duerson is of both Caucasian and African American descent. As she researched her family, she began seeing the two sides of her heritage converge in the Carolinas.

Her mother’s ancestors included people whose names appear in records from the revolutionary era, while her father’s family included several generations of formerly enslaved people who lived and worked in the same region.

In a Facebook post on the Charlotte North Carolina Temple page, Duerson explained that the convergence of these two histories, through her, is “sacred and of divine design.”

“I didn’t ask to be in the place where they converge, but a miracle has afforded me the blessing to be,” she said.

For the past four years, Duerson and her family have continued learning about their ancestors, visiting cemeteries and historical locations and searching through records.

One in particular was a woman named “Poll,” according to an 1845 North Carolina court record. Poll was Duerson’s fifth-great-grandmother. She and nine other people were named in a legal dispute concerning their enslavement. The court ultimately ordered them to be sold at a slave auction on the steps of the Cleveland County Courthouse in Shelby, North Carolina.

On the steps of that courthouse, Poll was separated from her family and sold.

More than 180 years later, Duerson sat on those same steps with her children. As she remembered her ancestors being torn apart, she also thought about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the healing He provides.

“My testimony of the Atonement has been enhanced …” she said. “Through family history work, it provides generational healing. … What was once broken apart can be healed for eternity.”

In July 2026, Duerson, with the help of young women, performed temple ordinances for Poll in the Columbia South Carolina Temple.

Duerson described the experience as joyful.

Her work in the temple has become a way to connect with generations of ancestors and participate in God’s work to bring His children home.

Duerson often returns to an April 2024 general conference message by Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, titled “God’s Intent Is to Bring You Home.” She especially remembers Elder Kearon’s statement that “God is in relentless pursuit of you.”

“Of course, [Elder Kearon] was referring to the Atonement,” she said. “But I think that also applies to each of us as individuals, but the Lord is in relentless pursuit of each of us. And I have seen that through temples and family history work.”

Duerson said God provides ways for people to help one another both during this life and beyond the grave.

Her three sons have become part of that work as well.

Whenever the family visits a cemetery or historical location connected to their ancestors, Duerson brings her children with her. She wants them to find joy in doing family history work.

She said her sons have “caught the spirit of Elijah.”

“The prophet Malachi promised that Elijah would turn the hearts of the children to their fathers, and the fathers to their children,” said Duerson. “I didn’t fully understand those verses until I started this work. It’s not just family history. It’s family, present tense, forever tense.”

What began with a cross-country move into the unknown has become a journey of discovering where Duerson’s family came from and helping bring together generations of a family that had once been forcibly separated.

As she continues her family history work, Duerson said the blessings have been greater than she could have imagined, pouring out in ways she “scarce can take it in.”

Family history records are ‘the thin but sacred thread’ tying people together, Elder Bragg tells archivists

Keep Christ at the center of family history, Elder Patrick Kearon teaches

‘Family history belongs to all of us’: Preserving the past, and finding meaning, connection through genealogy in Italy

From water drives to community gardens, Latter-day Saints serve across U.S. Southwest Area

Carly Ludlow — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 18:30:00 +0000

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the United States Southwest Area are serving their communities in a variety of ways, bringing together children, youth and adults to meet local needs.

From collecting drinking water to preparing community gardens and serving alongside people who experienced homelessness, Latter-day Saints in New Mexico and Texas are finding ways to make a difference through service.

Primary children lead water drive

Inspired and led by Primary children, members of the Albuquerque New Mexico West Stake collected more than 2,500 gallons of drinking water during a water drive on May 9.

After learning of a need for drinking water in the community of To’hajilee, the Primary children’s service committee organized the drive. They decorated boxes, made announcements during church meetings and invited members of the community to donate gallon water jugs. Primary children were also encouraged to complete extra chores to earn money to purchase water for the drive.

After three weeks of collecting donations, more than 100 gallon containers of water and many packages of bottled water had been gathered. A local hospital’s special response unit also heard about the drive and arrived with a truck full of water.

“This is such an incredible opportunity for these children,” one community member from the hospital said.

The Primary children not only loaded water onto the truck but also participated in other service projects, including making flower bouquets and care packages and writing thank-you cards for military personnel and police officers.

“The Primary children taught me as the Savior has, through inspiration, love, service and hope,” said Rebecca Hawthorne, stake Primary president, in an article about the event.

Youth prepare new garden

On April 11, more than 30 Latter-day Saint youth and adults gathered at the Community Pantry and Hope Garden in Grants, New Mexico, to help prepare a new garden area.

Volunteers filled garden boxes with wood chips, grass, leaf cuttings and specially mixed soil as they worked to prepare the garden for planting.

“It’s amazing what could be done in such a short amount of time when a group of community members work together,” said Alice Perez, director of Community Pantry. “In just three hours, the goal of having 30 boxes ready to be topped with garden soil was met.”

The volunteers began working at 8 a.m. and continued until the project was complete.

Garden assistant George Lopez said the work would have taken much longer without the volunteers.

“It would have taken us a week or more to fill those boxes,” Lopez said. “The help from these good folks is very much appreciated. A little help goes a long way.”

The Community Pantry and Hope Garden provide members of the community with garden spaces where they can grow their own food. The project helps make fresh food more accessible and encourages healthy eating.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about food accessibility,” Perez said.

Service at Community First! Village

More than 80 volunteers from the Austin Texas Stake joined Community First! Village on May 30 for an annual Youth Service Day.

Volunteers served in a variety of roles, including distributing vegetables at the community’s farmers market and spending time with residents. Community First! Village provides affordable, permanent housing and a supportive community for men and women transitioning out of chronic homelessness.

Volunteers also received a tour of the village from one of its first residents.

“It was really nice to serve people and see how happy it made them,” said Alex Solter, a youth from the Austin Texas Stake.

“It was good to see a place where people could find a home, be happy and contribute to the community,” said Shane McGarry, an adult volunteer. “It was nice to be able to share some time with them as we worked to beautify the community. It was meaningful to see that the Church’s contribution would have a big impact on many people at Community First! Village.”

The Church also donated a grant to support new-neighbor move-ins at the village.

Youth help food insecurity

In Denton, Texas, more than 90 youth volunteers gathered at Shiloh Field Community Garden on April 25 to serve alongside members of Mount Zion Praise Church.

The youth spent the day weeding, planting and helping grow food for local families experiencing food insecurity.

Shiloh Field Community Garden provides produce, honey and eggs to families in the community. Through their service, volunteers helped prepare the garden to continue providing nutritious food to those in need.

“It was really nice helping out at Shiloh Gardens,” said Matson Filler, youth from the Denton Texas Stake. “I enjoyed working with everyone and doing something good for the community.”

Across the United States Southwest Area, these and additional service projects are bringing people together across generations and faith communities while helping meet needs close to home.

Latter-day Saint youth around the world help others for Global Youth Service Day and Month

‘Sewing Hope’: A service project in Oklahoma impacts women in Uganda

How to involve children and youth in service

Iam Tongi and guest artists bring music and faith to 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference

Carly Ludlow — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 15:08:20 +0000

Voices echoed through the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City as young adults sang along to songs by “American Idol” Season 21 winner Iam Tongi on Aug. 14.

Tongi, a 21-year-old Latter-day Saint from Hawaii, headlined the 2026 Utah Area Young Single Adult Conference concerts on both Friday and Saturday, Aug. 14-15. He performed several of his own songs and shared his mother’s favorite gospel song, “Consider the Lilies.”

How faith and family influenced ‘American Idol’ winner Iam Tongi

“I love this song because it talks about the beauty of God’s creations,” Tongi said before performing the song. “The birds, the bees, the trees and the mountains.”

Throughout the night, Tongi used his music to share his testimony of Jesus Christ and connect with the conference theme, “Together in Christ.”

He was joined throughout the evening by several guest artists, each bringing a different sound and message to the stage.

Interfaith musical group the King will come opened the concert, adding a different musical style to the evening. Reggae artist Junior Maile brought an upbeat island sound, while Nela Otuafi performed “How Can I Be,” sharing his testimony of the Book of Mormon through song.

“Listen to the words,” Otuafi said to the audience. “This is my testimony of the Book of Mormon.”

Together, the performances created an atmosphere of faith and worship throughout the convention center.

“The Spirit is here today,” said Lizzy Lang, a YSA attending from St. George, Utah.

Lang drove to Salt Lake City with her institute peers, seeking a weekend filled with the Spirit. As she is currently working on paperwork to serve as a missionary, Lang said she hoped being edified by the Spirit throughout the conference would help her decide if she was ready to submit the papers.

Lang said her favorite part of the weekend was the breakout classes, where she felt the Spirit teach her.

“They are all just mini testimony meetings and opportunities for the Spirit to teach me what I need to learn,” she said. “I am not only learning from the teachers horizontally, but also vertically. I am receiving revelations and inspiration of what I need to hear prompted by the speakers and the discussions.”

For Lang and other young adults, the concert was just one part of a weekend designed to incorporate worship, learning, service and social activities.

Young adults gathered for service projects, devotionals, classes, family history activities and opportunities to meet and connect with one another. With activities ranging from karaoke and line dancing to speed dating, the conference offered young adults opportunities to build friendships and gather with others who share their values.

Joseph Christiansen, a YSA from Alpine, Utah, said the conference exceeded his expectations.

“I didn’t entirely know what to expect, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised coming here,” he said. “It’s all been really good.”

Podcast Episode 307: Young single adults prepare for Utah Area conference

What’s new at this year’s Utah Area YSA Conference

‘The Lord has confidence in you,’ says Utah Area president at YSA conference

In case you missed it: President Oaks marks his 94th birthday, Elder Rasband speaks at MTC, plus 8 more stories

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of Aug. 9-15, President Dallin H. Oaks marked his 94th birthday and first birthday as President and Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, on Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke to missionaries in the Provo Missionary Training Center about the messages shared at the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders.

An open house for the Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple has begun and Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles conducted a tour of the temple for senior Cambodian officials, interfaith leaders, and other dignitaries.

Both Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, and Sister Kristen M. Yee, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, spoke at the 2026 Utah Area Young Single Adult Conference in the Salt Palace Convention Center.

The Church News reported on the new Primary general presidency and its hope for children around the world.

In this week’s episode of the Church News podcast, 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference co-chairs Zach Sutton and Shelby Hurst talk about their preparation for the Church’s largest annual gathering of young single adults.

Volunteer applications for next year’s Salt Lake Temple Celebration reopened and now offer one-week service opportunities.

The First Presidency announced that ground will be broken for the Barcelona Spain Temple on Sept. 19 and that the Fort Worth Texas Temple open house will take place Nov. 5-21, with a Jan. 10, 2027, dedication date.

Elder Juan Pablo Villar, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Church’s South America Northwest Area, spoke at the first International Symposium on Religious Freedom in Lima, Peru.

This month, enrollment in seminar and institute programs exceeded 1,090,000, including more than 85,000 friends of other faiths.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. How President Oaks celebrated his 94th birthday

On Wednesday, Aug. 12, President Oaks marked his 94th birthday and celebrated with his family earlier in the week. This is his first birthday since becoming the Prophet and President of the Church.

2. Elder Rasband’s ‘highlight reel’: Missionary insights from 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders

Elder Rasband shared four lessons from the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders with missionaries in a devotional at the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah.

“Today I would like to share with all of you what I would like to call a ‘seminar highlight reel’ of sorts and emphasize the messages from the seminar that apply directly to you,” said Elder Rasband.

3. Elder Gong attends Phnom Penh Cambodia temple media day as open house begins

Interior and exterior photos have been released of the Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple as the open house begins.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles guided news representatives on Wednesday’s media-day tour. This is the first house of the Lord in the country of Cambodia.

4. 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference features both Sister Spannaus and Sister Yee

At the 2026 Utah Area young single adult Conference, Sister Spannaus and Sister Yee were both featured keynote speakers.

Sister Spannaus spoke during the Friday morning keynote session about the role of good friends in staying on the covenant path.

During the Saturday evening keynote session, Sister Yee taught young single adults how to find divine belonging, purpose and peace.

Read about the Utah Area presidency’s message here.

Read what stained-glass artists Gayle and Tom Holdman told young single adults here.

What’s new at this year’s Utah Area YSA Conference

Podcast Episode 307: Young single adults prepare for Utah Area conference

5. New Primary general presidency shares its hope for children around the world

In an Instagram video shared Aug. 2, the new Primary general presidency shared its hope for children around the world and testimonies of Jesus Christ.

The new Primary general presidency began its service on Aug. 1.

Learn more about the hope of the new Primary general presidency here.

Video: ‘Children are very precious,’ new Primary general president says

Learn more about the incoming Primary general presidency

6. Podcast Episode 307: Young single adults prepare for Utah Area conference

On this episode of the Church News podcast, Zach Sutton and Shelby Hurst, co-chairs of the 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference, discuss preparations for the multiday young single adult conference. The conference was Friday and Saturday, Aug. 14-15, in Salt Lake City.

Listen to the week’s podcast episode here.

Keynote speakers announced for 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference

See all the Church News podcast episodes

7. Salt Lake Temple Celebration volunteer applications reopen, with 1-week service option

The volunteer application period has been extended for next year’s Salt Lake Temple Celebration. Applications are open through Sept. 14, and volunteers can now register for the one-week service opportunities.

Read about the Salt Lake Temple Celebration volunteer applications here.

What to know about the Salt Lake Temple open house, ‘a celebration unlike anything else in the Church’

8. Temple news: Groundbreaking date set for Spain’s second house of the Lord; Fort Worth Texas Temple dedication, open house planned

Ground will be broken for the Barcelona Spain Temple on Saturday, Sept. 19. Elder James W. McConkie III — a General Authority Seventy and counselor in the Europe Central Area presidency — will preside over the ceremony.

The First Presidency also has announced dedication and open house dates for what will become the sixth operating temple in Texas. The Fort Worth Texas Temple will be dedicated Sunday, Jan. 10, 2027, and an open house will take place Nov. 5-21, excluding Sundays.

9. ‘A fundamental human right’: Elder Villar champions religious freedom at Peru’s first symposium

Elder Villar shared the importance of religious freedom throughout the world at the first International Symposium on Religious Freedom, held in Lima, Peru, Aug. 4-5. The symposium involved religious leaders, legal scholars, academics and other experts from nine South American countries.

10. More than 85,000 of other faiths enroll in seminary and institute

According to a notice published on ChurchofJesusChrist.org, seminary and institute enrollment has exceeded 1,090,000, including more than 85,000 friends of other faiths.

In March 2026, seminaries and institutes announced a combined enrollment of more than 1 million students worldwide.

New Primary general presidency shares its hope for children around the world

Carly Ludlow — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:55:46 +0000

On Aug. 1, a new Primary general presidency began its service.

President Rosemary K. Chibota was sustained as Primary general president, with Sister Nina M. Garfield as first counselor and Sister Theresa A. Collins as second counselor, by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the Saturday afternoon session of the April 2026 general conference on April 4.

In a video shared Aug. 2 on the Primary Worldwide Instagram and Facebook accounts, the new presidency members shared their testimonies of Jesus Christ and their hopes for serving children, parents and teachers around the world.

Seeing as God sees

For President Chibota, her new calling is an opportunity to see children as God sees them.

President Chibota and her husband, Brother Joel B. Chibota, had been serving as mission leaders in the Alabama Birmingham Mission when she was called to serve as Primary general president. She said the calling has given her a greater love for the children of the Church.

“I know that this is a gift from our Father in Heaven to develop a special love for the children,” said President Chibota in the Instagram video. She added, “I feel very humbled and excited to be part of this sacred call.”

Born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, President Chibota is the first African to lead an organization general presidency of the Church. She has served in a variety of Church callings and told the Church News she is excited to serve “God’s finest, the little children.”

President Chibota said she hopes to teach members of all ages to become “like little children.”

“I know that children are very precious to our Father in Heaven and that He loves them and He has given us commandment through the scriptures that we need to be like little children,” said President Chibota. “And I just am so excited to be able to teach these principles to the children of the Church, both young and old.”

Video: ‘Children are very precious,’ new Primary general president says

Joy of learning His gospel

As first counselor, Sister Garfield hopes to help children, parents and teachers come closer to Jesus Christ and feel the joy that comes from learning His gospel.

“I’m so excited about this new calling and the opportunity it gives me to talk with children, teachers, and how we can all come closer to Christ and get to know our Savior better,” said Sister Garfield on the Primary Worldwide Instagram account.

Sister Garfield emphasized the importance of helping children come to church, where they can learn about Jesus Christ and feel the love of their teachers. Above all, she hopes children will feel the “joy of coming to church.”

“How blessed we are to be able to learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ at such a young age,” she said.

Sister Garfield was born in Tokyo, Japan, and raised in Boulder, Colorado. After joining the Church as a high school senior, Sister Garfield said, many of her greatest blessings have come through her membership in the Church.

One of her goals is to help parents teach their children about Jesus Christ and His love for them.

“I want children to know that they are children of our Heavenly Father and He loves them and is aware of them and is there for them and to guide them,” she said in a Church News video.

Grow as disciples of Christ

For Sister Collins, serving in the Primary general presidency is an opportunity to help children grow as disciples of Jesus Christ.

As a mother and grandmother, Sister Collins said she is excited to watch the youngest members of the Church begin their journey of discipleship.

“It’s humbling and exciting as a grandmother of 15, almost 16, to consider the wonderful journey that the children of the Church will be taking as they grow in their discipleship of Jesus Christ,” said Sister Collins in the Instagram video. “Starting with their opportunity, they have to learn who they, are and more importantly, whose they are.”

Sister Collins, from Long Beach, California, believes helping children come unto Christ is a responsibility shared by parents, teachers, leaders and mentors.

“We have the responsibility, the sacred responsibility as parents, as teachers, as leaders, as mentors, those who have been entrusted with Heavenly Father’s children, the care of them, to teach them, to lead them, to guide them and to help them to receive their Savior, Jesus Christ,” she said to the Church News.

Together, the new presidency hopes to help children come closer to Jesus Christ.

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Learn more about the incoming Primary general presidency

Find out more about the Church’s 8 new General Authority Seventies

Childhood Primary song leads Latter-day Saint with Down syndrome to a place of temple service

Carly Ludlow — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 22:43:16 +0000

The words of the Primary song “I Love to See the Temple” could be heard frequently coming from Taylor Moberg, a member of the Moses Lake Washington Stake. Specifically the lines of the second verse:

“I love to see the temple.
I’ll go inside someday.
I’ll cov’nant with my Father;
I’ll promise to obey.”

From a young age, Taylor dreamed of entering the temple. But because she has Down syndrome, the path to making those sacred covenants was not always clear.

When she was 13 years old, someone from her young women’s class asked who wanted to perform baptisms for the dead at the temple. Taylor’s hand shot into the air. There was just one problem — she had not yet been baptized.

She wasted no time. Soon afterward, her older brother baptized her. Her mother, Leslie Moberg, said it was a sacred experience for their family and believes Taylor was especially prepared to make that covenant.

“She really understood more about what she was doing versus what she would not have understood at age 8,” said Leslie Moberg.

After her baptism, Taylor continued to grow spiritually.

“I figured after [her baptism] she would continue on that covenant path,” Leslie Moberg said. “But we did not know when that would come.”

Years later, Taylor received her temple endowment and soon afterward began serving in the Columbia River Washington Temple. At first, her name tag simply identified her as a “volunteer.”

Leslie Moberg still remembers the day that changed.

“It was like she had won the Academy Award,” Leslie Moberg said. “She was so excited. It gave her a belonging — that she had a name and she belonged there.”

Taylor found her place of belonging in the house of the Lord. She works multiple times each week performing different ordinances or even just greeting people as they come into the building.

Taylor provides the spirit to every ordinance and in any room. She now works alongside both her parents at the Moses Lake Washington Temple.

“To spend a day with these amazing special spirits like Taylor’s in the temple is an experience I wish everyone could have,” Leslie Moberg said. “They can bring you even closer to the spirit that is found in the temple and to the important work that goes on in the house of the Lord.”

For Leslie Moberg and her husband, serving alongside Taylor has become more than simply accompanying their daughter to the temple. It has given them a front-row seat to watch Taylor find a place where she feels loved, valued and needed.

Her parents and other temple workers have witnessed Taylor grow in confidence and share that love with others.

“Taylor has blessed so many lives by those who associate and serve with her,” said Leslie Moberg. “She loves unconditionally and brings so much joy to our temple shifts and the patrons who come to the temple. Taylor has softened and changed everyone in our family.”

Sydnee Bailey Kirkham, a returned missionary who served in the Moberg’s ward, saw Taylor’s love for temple service firsthand. Kirkham said Taylor’s service has never been about what she could receive from the experience but about what she could give to others.

“I don’t think Taylor’s ever done it for herself,” Kirkham said. “She did not necessarily need it, but she works in the temple to help other people. … She is always so pure and happy.”

Each week, Taylor walks through the temple doors, no longer singing about “someday,” but living the words she has sung since she was a child.

A son with fragile x syndrome carries on his late father’s temple legacy through service in the house of the Lord

Hip Hop Homies helps dancers with Down syndrome find friendship and joy

Everyone belongs to the body of Christ — biology professor shares insights on teaching the gospel to neurodivergent children

In case you missed it: Church releases instructional videos for Sunday schedule changes, plus 8 more stories

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of Aug. 2-8, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a series of short instructional videos about implementing the new Sunday schedule changes.

President D. Todd Christofferson, second counselor in the First Presidency, spoke to youth in Alaska over Zoom during their youth stake camp.

Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson announced an additional $65 million in donation funding on Friday, Aug. 7, to the Church’s initiative to help women and children.

Ground was broken for two temples: the Santos Brazil Temple on Saturday, Aug. 1 and the Naga Philippines Temple on Aug. 8.

The First Presidency announced the closure of the existing Anchorage Alaska Temple before the relocated structure is dedicated in 2027. They also announced that Elder Clark G. Gilbert of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will dedicate the Cody Wyoming Temple.

Elder Michael A. Dunn, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Church’s United States Southwest Area, threw the first pitch at an Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game on Monday, July 20.

In this week’s episode of the Church News podcast, Donny Anderson, an institute teacher at the Logan Institute of Religion in Logan, Utah, discusses the themes, structure and language of the New Testament in preparation for 2027’s “Come, Follow Me” study.

Leaders in Nigeria encouraged members to enroll in BYU-Pathway Worldwide during a local discussion.

The Church News reported on the miraculous story of 4-year-old Estelle Santiago, who contracted a serious illness while visiting Uruguay from the United States.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Church releases instructional videos for September Sunday schedule changes

The Church released a series of short videos for leaders to use in preparation for the new Sunday schedule changes.

The changes will take place on Sept. 6, with a global Sunday instruction taking place globally on Aug. 30 and Sept. 6.

2. ‘Camp Hesed’: How a tabernacle replica and a call with President Christofferson blessed 400 Alaskan youth

During a youth stake camp in Alaska, President Christofferson talked to the youth over a Zoom call on the importance of taking care of one another.

At the stake camp, the youth gathered in 12 tribes and pitched their tents toward the newly-built tabernacle replica.

3. More than 52 million women and children blessed by Church initiative

At a press conference on Friday, Aug. 7, President Johnson announced a $65 million investment for the ongoing initiative to assist in the well-being of women and children.

“Because of the impact and change the strong collaboration established and our confidence in this important work, I am pleased to announce a year-three commitment of $65 million,” President Johnson said.

4. 2 temple groundbreakings: Santos Brazil Temple and Naga Philippines Temple

Ground was broken for the Santos Brazil Temple on Aug. 7. Elder Ronald M. Barcellos, a General Authority Seventy, presided over the groundbreaking. This temple is now one of six Brazil houses of the Lord in the construction phase.

On Saturday, Aug. 8, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Naga Philippines Temple took place. Elder Steven D. Shumway, a General Authority Seventy and member of the Philippines Area presidency, presided over the ceremony.

Learn more about the Santos Brazil Temple groundbreaking here.

Learn more about the Naga Philippines Temple groundbreaking here.

August 2026 will have 6 temple groundbreakings. What’s the most in a single month?

5. Elder Gilbert to dedicate third house of the Lord in Wyoming, and the relocated Anchorage Alaska Temple to be dedicated next summer

Elder Gilbert will dedicate the Cody Wyoming Temple on Oct. 25. This will be Elder Gilbert’s first time dedicating a temple since becoming a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in February.

The Anchorage Alaska Temple has been undergoing a relocation, with a new temple structure under construction where a nearby stake center once stood.

The First Presidency announced that the current Anchorage temple will close on March 22, 2027, prior to the new structure’s dedication, which will take place June 13, 2027.

6. Elder Dunn celebrates faith and family with first pitch at Arizona baseball game

On Monday, July 20, Elder Dunn threw the first pitch at an Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game. Prior to the game, a choir of Church members and friends sang the U.S. national anthem.

Elder Dunn said throwing the first pitch at a baseball game was “a dream come true” for him, especially with his two sons and two of his grandchildren there to support him.

Read about Elder Dunn at an Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game here.

Embrace the divine and shape the future with faith, Elder Dunn says at BYU

‘A wonderful spirit’: Missionaries sing U.S. national anthem at Colorado Rockies baseball game

7. Episode 306: New Testament themes for 2027 ‘Come, Follow Me’ with institute teacher Donny Anderson

On this episode of the Church News podcast, Anderson, who is an institute teacher at the Logan Institute of Religion, shares themes, structure and language of the New Testament ahead of the 2027 “Come, Follow Me” curriculum.

The New Testament includes Jesus Christ’s birth, life and teachings; His Atonement, Crucifixion and Resurrection; and the teachings of His apostles.

Listen to or watch the podcast episode here.

2027 ‘Come, Follow Me’ curriculum now available

See all the Church News podcast episodes

8. Church leaders in Nigeria inspire others through BYU-Pathway Worldwide enrollment

Bishops, stake presidents, their counselors, Area Seventies and members of their families are leading by example as they enroll in BYU-Pathway Worldwide and encourage members to do the same.

9. Family of 4-year-old who nearly died in Uruguay shares how God’s power helped save her life

Four-year-old Estelle Santiago was diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome while visiting Uruguay with her family. Estelle was near death, but through faith and a miracle she recovered.

Church continues to expand its relief efforts in Venezuela

Carly Ludlow — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 23:00:00 +0000

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced $2.8 million in relief projects with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, Project HOPE and Catholic Relief Services to help earthquake victims in Venezuela, reported a July 23 news release on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Earthquakes of 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude hit the country of Venezuela late Wednesday, June 24, and left deadly results.

Alongside the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, the Church is providing 5,000 15-day food kits for households. Canned goods, energy bars, cookies, dried milk, bottled water and other nonperishable products are included in each kit.

“Following Jesus Christ means standing beside those who are going through difficult times,” said Elder Juan F. Zorrilla, an Area Seventy from Caracas, Venezuela.

The Church is working with multiple organizations to support those in need of relief.

In efforts with Project HOPE, a leading global health and humanitarian organization, the Church’s funding will help repair seven health facilities, provide medicine and medical supplies, make psychological first aid available to more than 100,000 individuals and train 230 health staff and community responders in emergency response and first aid.

With Catholic Relief Services, the Church will provide temporary shelters for 400 people, 700 household kits and 700 hygiene kits, food baskets for 1,075 families, water purification kits for 700 families, water filters for 1,075 families and water for 12,000 individuals.

Church relief efforts have also supported health care services through delivering medicine, intravenous solutions, medical and surgical supplies and other essential items to five public hospitals in the capital of Venezuela.

The efforts with local hospitals have been led by Elder Pedro Hernández, an Area Seventy and physician from Punto Fijo, Venezuela.

Church leaders and volunteers are preparing and distributing food and drinks daily.

In conjunction with nonprofit organizations and the government, the Church has provided food and other essential supplies to affected communities since the earthquakes.

How the Church is helping after twin earthquakes in Venezuela

Area Church leaders offer statement of sympathy after Venezuela earthquakes

Service and faith in Jesus Christ helping Venezuelans after deadly earthquakes

In case you missed it: Elder Cook speaks to BYU–Pathway Worldwide students, plus 7 other stories

Carly Ludlow, Nate Church — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of July 26 to Aug. 1, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed BYU–Pathway Worldwide students around the world on the importance of increasing faith while acquiring knowledge and skills.

Many senior missionaries are answering the call as more missions open around the world. Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared in a Liahona article the experience of one senior missionary and the various ways single seniors can serve the Lord.

In this episode of the Church News podcast, President Susan H. Porter and her counselors, Sister Amy A. Wright and Sister Tracy Y. Browning, discuss how children are learning the gospel of Jesus Christ around the world.

Sister Wright also spoke to new missionaries about the transforming power of God’s plan at the Provo Missionary Training Center on July 28.

Three new statues of the Savior, Jesus Christ, have been installed on Salt Lake City’s Temple Square.

A groundbreaking date for the Colorado Springs Colorado Temple has been announced for Sept. 12. Also, the First Presidency announced a Nov. 22 dedication date for the Torreón Mexico Temple.

The Gospel Library app has been updated with added features to more effectively study the gospel at home and participate in Sunday meetings.

The Sierra Leone Bo Mission is expected to exceed 10,000 convert baptisms since the mission began two years ago.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Elder Cook to BYU–Pathway students: ‘Strengthen your faith as you face life’s challenges’

During a devotional broadcast to BYU–Pathway Worldwide students, Elder Cook shared three essential principles to strengthen faith when faced with trials.

“The challenge is to find the time for spiritual growth while acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a very competitive world,” said Elder Cook.

2. What mission does the Lord have for you? Single men and women over 40 are answering the call to serve

In a Liahona magazine article, Elder Rasband shares how one senior missionary’s experience demonstrates how the Lord needs His disciples. Single men and women over 40 years old are answering the call to serve missions.

“He knows your capacity to serve, and His Church offers a variety of lengths, assignments and locations for senior missionaries,” Elder Rasband wrote.

3. Church News podcast, Episode 305: Primary general presidency talks about discovering the ‘character of the Lord’ by serving children

On this episode of the Church News podcast, President Porter and her counselors, Sister Wright and Sister Browning, discuss their observations of children around the world who are learning the gospel of Jesus Christ at home and in church settings. Before concluding their service in the Primary general presidency, they share the lessons they learned from their calling.

“We have tried to drink so deeply from the Savior’s example in 3 Nephi,” President Porter said in the interview. “When He gathered children so often around Him, and He prayed for them, and He called down angels, and He invited them, He loosed their tongues, invited them to share.”

Listen to or watch the podcast episode here.

Episode 289: Get to know the new General Authority Seventies and Primary general presidency through their testimonies

Knowledge and testimony of plan of salvation ‘changes everything,’ Sister Wright teaches

4. Knowledge and testimony of plan of salvation ‘changes everything,’ Sister Wright teaches

Sister Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency and a member of the Missionary Executive Council, spoke at the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, on July 28.

She taught that the knowledge and a testimony of God’s plan transform lives. She also shared four fundamental truths found in God’s plan of salvation that will help missionaries fulfill their missionary purpose.

5. 3 new statues of Christ installed on Temple Square

This month, three new statues depicting key moments in Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry were installed on Salt Lake City’s Temple Square.

The new statues illustrate Jesus Christ with the woman at the well, Mary Magdalene seeing the resurrected Christ at the tomb and the Savior ordaining apostles.

Read about these statues here.

Video: First look at the Temple Square Visitors’ Center

6. Temple news: Colorado Springs Colorado Temple groundbreaking date set, 2 Mexico temples to be dedicated this November

The Church announced a Sept. 12 groundbreaking date has been set for the Colorado Springs Colorado Temple. Elder Karl D. Hirst — a General Authority Seventy and member of the United States Central Area presidency — will preside over the ceremony.

The First Presidency has announced a Nov. 22 dedication date for the Torreón Mexico Temple. Dedicating the temple will be Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

This will be the second temple dedicated in Mexico in the month of November. Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will dedicate the San Luis Potosí Mexico Temple on Nov. 1.

7. Updates to Gospel Library app support youth, Relief Society, elders quorum

Recently added features on the Gospel Library app will help youth, Relief Societies and elders quorums prepare for September’s Sunday schedule change, as well as help members study the gospel in homes and participate in Sunday meetings.

8. Thousands baptized in Sierra Leone Bo Mission in past 2 years as Church grows in African country

Since the beginning of the Sierra Leone Bo Mission in 2024, the mission expected to exceed 10,000 convert baptisms last week.

Since the mission was created in the summer of 2024, 9,967 people have been baptized, with 170 people scheduled for baptism this past Saturday, Sierra Leone Bo Mission President Scott L. Wyatt said.

Hip Hop Homies helps dancers with Down syndrome find friendship and joy

Carly Ludlow — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

As Carol Tingey, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reflects on the beginning of the Hip Hop Homies dance club, she never expected to learn as much as she did.

About 10 years ago, Tingey prayed for a meaningful way to spend her time. The answer came clearly: Organize a hip-hop dance group for her friends.

Although she had no formal dance experience, Tingey took the initiative and called her friends with Down syndrome whom she had met in high school in Mesa, Arizona, inviting them to join the group. Beginning with just eight dancers, she launched “Hip Hop Homies With Xtra Chromies” in 2016 in Mesa.

“I don’t have any dance background, but I do know that my friends with Down syndrome loved music and dance,” Tingey said. “They dance with joy, and they don’t care if they are the best at it. They dance because they love it.”

The group began by performing in small recitals for parents and at activities for local church youth groups in Arizona. Today, Hip Hop Homies performs for much larger audiences, including NBA halftime shows and, most recently, the Stadium of Fire celebration in Provo, Utah.

At the latter July 4 event, 14 of the 65 dancers in total performed in front of thousands of community members. Their nearly four-minute routine showcased each dancer’s unique personality and style.

Ale Ray, mother of Hip Hop Homies member Mario Ray, attended the performance and said every performance fills her family with joy.

“It brings so much joy and happiness,” Ale Ray said. “Even though we are not in the performance at all, it is so wonderful. That’s what they share with so many people.”

Mario Ray joined Hip Hop Homies three and a half years ago after watching one of the group’s performances at his local stake center. At the time, the classes were full, so he waited patiently for an opportunity to join.

When Mario Ray was finally able to become a member of the group, Ale Ray said she watched his confidence and joy grow.

“One of the main things the class has provided for Mario is a place where he feels involved,” Ale Ray said. “He loves to share joy. He loves to dance. He loves his friends. He loves all the other Homies.”

For many of the dancers, Hip Hop Homies has become more than a dance class. It has become a community where lasting friendships are formed.

Barb Wilkins, mother of group member Eric Wilkins, said the highlight of her son’s week is reuniting with his friends at practice. Each gathering contains a prayer, cheer and group hug.

“We saw our kids happy and interacting,” Barb Wilkins said. “They have friends — good friends. They call each other, text each other and spend time together. … They can hardly wait for the next Hip Hop Homies activity so they can see their friends.”

Wilkins said the group has filled an important need for many adults with Down syndrome.

“After high school, it gets more difficult for our kids to maintain a social circle,” she said. “Most of their friends disperse. Some go to college, some work, and some marry. Our kids are no longer in an environment where they see people every day. Hip Hop Homies has provided a space where friendships can form and be sustained. New skills can be learned, and a social network can thrive.”

Tingey originally started the group because of the friendships she developed with classmates in high school. Today, she has helped more than 60 individuals become part of Hip Hop Homies, creating opportunities for friendship, fitness and a place to share the Light of Christ.

She said that through every performance, she not only watches the dancers share their talents but also learns from the example they set.

“It’s been a huge blessing in my life for more than 40 years to associate with them,” Tingey said. “It is such a blessing to watch them and see the light come on. They learn the same things I do, which is that they have so much to teach us. They are just such an awesome group of people. As I tell people, they’re not perfect people, although they’re the closest to it that I know.”

Elder in a cape: Limited in words, service missionary acts with love and kindness

Everyone belongs to the body of Christ — biology professor shares insights on teaching the gospel to neurodivergent children

Throwback to ‘Dazzle Prom’: Las Vegas stake hosts community dance for individuals with special needs

In case you missed it: President Oaks speaks on families, President Johnson is parade marshal, plus 7 more stories

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of July 19-25, the Church News reported on Church President Dallin H. Oaks’ teachings at his biennial family reunion on July 4.

During the Days of ’47 Parade in Salt Lake City on Friday, July 24, President Oaks made a surprise appearance and Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson was the grand marshal.

Young Men General President Timothy L. Farnes encouraged Aaronic Priesthood holders to share the gospel in small ways during a livestream on the Young Men Worldwide social media accounts.

The Church News also reported on the learnings and experiences of the outgoing Primary general presidency and children’s discipleship.

The Sunday School general presidency shared guidance on holding teacher council meetings and a new Gospel Foundations class was announced.

This week’s episode of the Church News podcast features Elder Brent H. Nielson, an emeritus General Authority Seventy, and Richard Sutton from the Church’s Temple Department, discussing the upcoming Salt Lake Temple Celebration.

In temple news, the First Presidency announced a groundbreaking date for the Maceió Brazil Temple.

In response to the 50th anniversary of the Teton Dam flood this year, the Church News compiled lessons shared from Latter-day Saints about what they learned from the flooding.

The Church released 10 more hymns for the new global hymnbook, “Hymns for Home and Church.”

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. ‘Pull together’ as families, says Church President Dallin H. Oaks at biennial family reunion

President Oaks attended the biennial Abinadi and Hannah Seely Olsen family reunion with over 600 of their descendants spanning over seven generations. President Oaks testified of the knowledge of eternal families and the gospel of Jesus Christ to those in attendance.

2. President Camille N. Johnson serves as Days of ’47 Parade grand marshal

President Oaks made a surprise appearance in the Days of ’47 Parade in Salt Lake City on Friday, July 24. He appeared alongside his wife, Sister Kristen M. Oaks, in a vehicle in the parade route, following behind President Johnson, and her husband, Brother Douglas R. Johnson. President Johnson was the grand marshal of the parade.

President Johnson said she was thrilled for the opportunity to honor her own pioneer ancestors and also celebrate all who are pioneers in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints around the world.

See photos from the parade here.

3. A smile, a note, a prayer: President Farnes offers simple ways youth can be missionaries now

In a social media livestream, President Farnes spoke to Aaronic Priesthood holders about sharing the gospel in small ways every day.

“I don’t think we wait for a mission experience,” he said. “That mission experience should happen today. It’s who we are. We’re lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.”

4. Outgoing Primary general presidency reflects on growing children’s discipleship

As current Primary General President Susan H. Porter; Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor; and Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor, prepare to conclude their service, they reflected on all that they have learned and experienced in an interview with the Church News.

On Aug. 1, a new Primary general presidency will begin serving.

5. Strengthening gospel teaching through teacher council meetings

Ahead of the new Sunday meeting schedule, the Sunday School general presidency — President Paul V. Johnson and counselors Brother Chad H Webb and Brother Gabriel W. Reid — shared guidance on how to strengthen gospel teaching through teacher council meetings.

Also, Gospel Foundations: A Sunday School Class for New Members and Friends is an optional class for new, adult Church members and people who are learning about the Church, according to a notice sent to stake, ward and branch leaders on Thursday, July 23.

Find out more about the Gospel Foundations class here.

Sunday School general president and counselor on upcoming Sunday schedule changes

6. Church News podcast, Episode 304: Preparing for the Salt Lake Temple Celebration

On this week’s episode of the Church News podcast, Elder Nielson and Sutton joined guest host Sheri Dew, executive vice president of Deseret Management Corp. and a former member of the Relief Society general presidency, to discuss the nature of the upcoming Salt Lake Temple Celebration.

The celebration will provide many opportunities for individuals to learn about the historic and holy structure and its purpose in Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

7. Groundbreaking date set for Maceió Brazil Temple

The First Presidency announced a Saturday, Oct. 10, groundbreaking date for the Maceió Brazil Temple. This will be the fourth groundbreaking in Brazil this year.

8. Lessons from the Teton Dam flood, 50 years later

Fifty years after the Teton Dam flood, Latter-day Saints are remembering lessons of resiliency and faith. The Church News compiled stories from members as they were witnesses to the disaster.

9. 10 new hymns released in ‘Hymns for Home and Church’

The Church released 10 more hymns for the new global hymnbook, “Hymns for Home and Church,” on Thursday, July 23.

This latest release brings the total to 82 new hymns and songs in the new hymnbook in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French.

See the new hymns here.

See the Church News week in review each Sunday

Youth across Asia strengthen faith through conferences, FSY and service

Carly Ludlow — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In Asia, youth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are participating in For the Strength of Youth conferences, youth conferences and camps that strengthen faith, build friendships and encourage service.

As reported in news releases from the Church, here are three recent youth gatherings in Mongolia and Thailand.

Mongolian Youth Resilience Conference strengthens faith

More than 350 youth from across Mongolia gathered June 29 through July 3 at the Dugan Khad Resort near Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, for a week of learning, fellowship and spiritual growth.

Just one month before the conference, a fire destroyed three buildings and damaged a fourth, including about one-third of the resort’s lodging as well as its kitchen and main dining facility. Resort staff worked tirelessly to restore the facilities in time for the five-day conference.

Because of those efforts, the conference included activities, gospel lessons, discussions and service opportunities.

According to the Church’s Mongolia Newsroom, youth strengthened their testimonies, learned gospel principles, developed leadership skills and gained confidence to continue living the gospel after returning home. Elder Christopher H. Kim, a General Authority Seventy and a counselor in the Asia North Area presidency, and Elder Odgerel Ochirjav, an Area Seventy, attended the conference and taught gospel lessons.

Because many branches in Mongolia have only a handful of young men and young women, the conference gave participants an opportunity to build friendships with others who share their beliefs.

Upon arrival, the youth were assigned to groups named after prophets, from Moses to President Dallin H. Oaks. Throughout the week, each group studied the life and teachings of its assigned prophet and created a banner representing what they had learned.

The conference concluded with a talent show. Many youth returned home with lasting memories and stronger testimonies of Jesus Christ, as mentioned in the news release.

One youth who had not been attending church regularly committed to attending every Sunday after feeling the Spirit during the conference.

Thai youth participate in community service project

Youth of the Ubon Thailand Stake participated in a “Walk with me: Walk in His light” service project to support the Children and Family Shelter in Surin Province, Thailand.

The project emphasized the importance of children, youth and families. According to the Church’s Thailand Newsroom, the shelter provides protection, welfare services and assistance for children, women and families experiencing social challenges or violence.

On April 30, youth decorated walls and outdoor areas at the shelter to create spaces that encourage learning, recreation and healthy emotional and social development. They also packed bags of rice, dried food and other supplies for volunteers to distribute to underprivileged students in remote areas.

International FSY conference guides youth to Christ

From June 18 to 22, 175 youth from across Asia gathered in Bangkok, Thailand, for an international For the Strength of Youth conference centered on the 2026 youth theme “Walk With Me.”

Youth ages 14 to 18 from 13 areas built friendships while strengthening their faith in Jesus Christ through activities designed to help them remember their divine identity.

“I always struggled to think that I am a child of God because I faced lots of failure back there,” said Josh Rifareal, a 16-year-old living in Vietnam. “In FSY, I hear the basic principles: I am a child of God. I am a disciple of Christ. We need to walk with Him so that we will not fall. Those lessons really helped me remember my divine identity, that I can do great things if I follow Him.”

According to the Church’s Thailand Newsroom, youth were assigned to mixed-age companies led by counselors who guided discussions and activities throughout the conference.

One service activity brought 40 children from the Mercy Center in Bangkok to participate in games and crafts alongside the youth.

“Bringing in the kids from the Mercy Center helped the companies to not think about themselves anymore,” said Molly Chadwick, one of the FSY coordinators. “I can tell they’re wanting to make it a good opportunity for the Mercy Center youth and children, and I think that’s really beautiful.”

Participants left the conference feeling spiritually strengthened and more confident in their identity as children of God. FSY coordinator Matthew Osborn said he watched youth become more comfortable with one another as the conference progressed.

“It is memorable to see how the gospel allows them to be comfortable,” he said. “They are experiencing the love of Jesus Christ around them, and they are starting to realize what that means, and I think it changes them.”

FSY in Brazil empowers youth to walk with Christ

‘A rising that is taking place’: Sacrifice leads to faith-building experiences for youth at FSY

How Latter-day Saint youth around the world are serving others

In case you missed it: New record of missionaries worldwide, plus 7 more stories

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 19 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of July 12-18, Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared in a social media post that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reached an all-time record of 88,500 full-time missionaries serving worldwide.

The Church News reported on the new mural placed June 2 in the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, that recognizes the first two single-sister missionaries.

The First Presidency released an exterior rendering of the Spanish Fork Utah Temple and the site locations of a temple in Colombia and two in Brazil.

This week’s episode of the Church News podcast features Jacob W. Olmstead and Benedicte Dansie with the Church History Department to discuss how Church historic sites help visitors not only see the Church’s heritage and history but also connect with the Savior, Jesus Christ.

The Church News reported on the story of “The Family Quilt” inside the Temple Square Visitors’ Center.

The first person baptized in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is now serving with his wife as the mission leaders of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Kinshasa North Mission.

The Church News also recounted the story of how Elder Matthew Cooper is serving as a service missionary, despite his physical limitations.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Church announces new all-time record of 88,500 missionaries worldwide

In a social media post on July 14, Elder Rasband marked the milestone that 88,500 full-time missionaries are serving worldwide. This number sets a new all-time record for missionary service, surpassing the previous high of 88,000 set in 2014.

2. New mural recognizes first single-sister missionaries, inspires current missionaries

A new mural was installed in the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, that illustrates the first single sisters to serve as full-time missionaries. In 1898, Inez Knight and Jennie Brimhall began serving in England. Today, the mural stands to inspire young sister missionaries serving today.

3. Spanish Fork Utah Temple rendering released

On June 13, an exterior rendering of the Spanish Fork Utah Temple was released by the First Presidency. This house of the Lord is one of the 32 temples in the state of Utah, in various stages of planning, operation and construction.

4. 3 South America temple site maps released

On July 13, the First Presidency released the locations for three temples in South America. The Medellín Colombia Temple, the Campo Grande Brazil Temple and the Goiânia Brazil Temple site locations were all announced.

5. Church News podcast, Episode 303: Connecting with Jesus Christ through Church historic sites

Olmstead and Dansie joined the Church News podcast to discuss how historic sites bring individuals closer to Jesus Christ.

“Many people come to the historic sites and have a really powerful spiritual experience,” said Olmstead. “Their testimony is strengthened or found anew or for the first time by feeling the Spirit in that place.”

Listen to the podcast episode here.

A guide to historic sites of the latter-day Restoration

Listen to more episodes of the Church News podcast

6. ‘The Family Quilt’ at Temple Square Visitors’ Center made by members around the world

Hanging in the Temple Square Visitors’ Center is a large quilt with 91 blocks or squares, each representing stories of eternal families and the temple.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from around the world made the individual quilt panels for “The Family Quilt.”

Read about “The Family Quilt” here.

New Temple Square Visitors’ Center exhibit offers inside look at temples

First look inside the new visitors’ center at Temple Square

7. First person baptized in Democratic Republic of the Congo returns as mission president 40 years later

Forty years ago as a young man, President Junior Banza was the first person baptized in the borders of this Central Africa nation. Sister Banza was baptized about six months later. Now the couple is serving as mission presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Kinshasa North Mission.

They arrived for their assignment in late June.

8. How one service missionary with quadriplegic cerebral palsy is living a ‘full life’

Elder Cooper was born with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, but he refuses to let physical limitations keep him from following and serving the Lord. He is currently serving as a service missionary in the Utah Provo Mission.

In case you missed it: Elder Renlund addresses new mission leaders; Elder Gong testifies at the new Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 12 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000

During the week of July 5-11, Elder Dale G. Renlund‘s message from the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders — about involving members in the various aspects of missionary work — was featured in a July 5 ChurchofJesusChrist.org news release.

In a Church News video, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about the significance of Nauvoo, Illinois, at the June 27 dedication of the new Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center.

The Church News reported on what members of the Relief Society general presidency have taught about the importance of ministering.

Another report focused on the opportunity and responsibility of youth serving missions, messages Young Men General President Timothy L. Farnes and Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman shared in recent social media posts.

In a new Church video, Primary General President Susan H. Porter shares an experience she had in an empty hardware store after her husband died that taught her about Jesus Christ.

The First Presidency announced an Aug. 29 groundbreaking date for the Coeur d’Alene Idaho Temple.

The week’s episode of the Church News podcast features historian Spencer W. McBride with the Church History Department as he talks about the American Revolution, religious freedom and God’s hand in history.

Andy Reid, head football coach of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, joined The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square celebrating the United States’ 250th birthday for the “Music & the Spoken Word.”

Members of the Church in Venezuela are relying on faith in Jesus Christ as they work toward rebuilding and recovering after two deadly earthquakes struck the country on Wednesday, June 24. Also, the Church alongside the National Muslim Leaders Forum provided emergency relief to thousands of vulnerable families in a drought-stricken area of Kenya.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. ‘Every member who is willing can do something’ to further missionary work, Elder Renlund says

Elder Renlund emphasized involving members to further missionary work to new mission leaders at the 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders.

2. Video: Elder Gong at dedication of new Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center

Elder Gong spoke on the significance of Nauvoo and June 27 at the dedication of the new Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center and rededication of the Brigham and Mary Ann Young Home in a Church News video.

Elder Gong said Latter-day Saints consider Nauvoo part of the “cornerstone of Zion.”

Watch Elder Gong’s video at the dedication of the new Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center here.

‘Cornerstone of Zion’: Elder Gong dedicates the Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center

Elder Gong, Church leaders honor Joseph and Hyrum Smith on 182nd anniversary of martyrdom

3. ‘It is a way of being’: What the Relief Society general presidency is teaching about ministering

Since April, members of the Relief Society general presidency explained that ministering is much more than a calling. The Church News reported on the distinct messages shared by the presidency since then.

4. What youth should know about serving a mission

President Farnes and President Freeman outlined the responsibility and opportunity youth have when serving a mission. Both presidents addressed questions youth may have about serving missions and offered their own advice in recent social media posts.

Learn more about the responsibility and opportunity of missionary work here.

‘Every member who is willing can do something’ to further missionary work, Elder Renlund says

What does a missionary assignment room look like?

5. Watch: How President Porter learned she is never alone through Jesus Christ

President Porter shared an experience she had in an empty hardware store after her husband died that helped her learn that through Jesus Christ, she was never alone in a new Church video released on June 28.

Watch President Porter’s testimony here.

The impression Sister Porter received after her husband’s death that continues to carry her

What President Porter learned about labels after her husband’s death

6. Groundbreaking date set for Coeur d’Alene Idaho Temple

A groundbreaking date was announced by the First Presidency for the Coeur d’Alene Idaho Temple. The groundbreaking will take place Aug. 29 and Elder Hutch U. Fale will preside over the ceremony.

Read about the Coeur d’Alene Idaho Temple groundbreaking here.

7. Church News podcast episode 302: Historian Spencer W. McBride on U.S. history, Church history and religious freedom

Historian Spencer W. McBride with the Church History Department joins the Church News podcast as he discusses the 250th anniversary of America and the topics of religious freedom and God’s hand in history.

“I think that Heavenly Father’s Church restored on the earth should be leading the way in helping establish and protect religious freedom,” said McBride.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

Listen to more episodes of the Church News podcast

8. Andy Reid on a ‘more perfect union’ during ‘Music & the Spoken Word’ for America250

Head football coach of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, joined the broadcast of “Music & the Spoken Word” with The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America.

Reid’s remarks pointed to how the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution have guided the United States.

9. Humanitarian news: Service and faith helping Venezuelans after deadly earthquakes and Church brings emergency relief to Kenya

Members of the Church in Venezuela are relying on faith in Jesus Christ as they work toward rebuilding and recovering after two deadly earthquakes struck the country on Wednesday, June 24. According to reporting by The Associated Press, the death toll had risen to 3,535 by Monday, July 6, with another 16,740 people injured and tens of thousands missing.

The Church alongside the National Muslim Leaders Forum provided emergency relief to thousands of vulnerable families in a drought-stricken area of Kenya.

In case you missed it: First Presidency invites all to participate in a united fast for religious freedom, plus 7 other stories

Carly Ludlow — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:01 +0000

During the week of June 28 — July 4, President Dallin H. Oaks of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his counselors in the First Presidency, President Henry B. Eyring and President D. Todd Christofferson invited all to participate in a unified fast on Sunday, July 5, to express gratitude for religious liberty in a letter dated March 12 and sent to local leaders in the U.S.

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles gave the keynote address at the 2026 Patriotic Service of America’s Freedom Festival in Provo, Utah.

Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman spoke to missionaries during a devotional at the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, on June 30.

The Church News reported on Primary General President Susan H. Porter and Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, as they spent 10 days in Brazil teaching and instructing on June 5-14.

Construction crews for the Salt Lake Temple removed bolts and plates to rest the temple on its new base isolation system.

The Church News compiled an article of the seven temples that will be dedicated over four consecutive Sundays.

Also, 338 students from BYU-Pathway education programs received degrees and certificates in ceremonies throughout Nairobi, Kenya, and Jinja, Uganda.

The week’s episode of the Church News podcast features Ensign College professors Kurt Fertig and Joseph Kerry as they discuss the significance of America250.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Unified fast for religious liberty on Sunday, July 5

In a letter dated March 12, the First Presidency of the Church invited all to participate in a unified fast on Sunday, July 5, to express gratitude for religious liberty and pray that it will be strengthened throughout the world.

2. The Lord preserved the U.S. for ‘the great unfolding of the gospel,’ says Elder Rasband

At the 2026 Patriotic Service of America’s Freedom Festival, Elder Rasband spoke about how God preserved the U.S. for “the great unfolding of the gospel.”

3. Jesus Christ meets people where and as they are, President Freeman teaches at Provo MTC

At a devotional at the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, President Freeman spoke to missionaries about the Savior’s condescension, ascension and atoning power.

4. President Porter and Sister Spannaus see joy, faith and love in Brazil

The Church News reported on President Porter and Sister Spannaus joining Latter-day Saints in Brazil for service activities, devotionals, leadership instruction, focus groups and ministering visits on June 5-14.

Learn more about President Porter and Sister Spannaus in Brazil here.

A look at 5 humanitarian efforts in Brazil so far in 2026

5. Seismic upgrade completed on Salt Lake Temple

Updates to the Salt Lake Temple include a new base isolation system to protect it from future earthquakes. Other updates include installing carpets and hanging chandeliers.

6. Church to dedicate 7 temples over 4 Sundays in October, November

Later this fall, seven temples will be dedicated over four consecutive Sundays. The Church News gathered information for all temples dedicated on the same day over the course of the Church’s history.

Read about these seven temple dedications here.

Temple — The Church News Almanac

How rare are 2 temple dedications in the same day? It’s been done before. See when

7. ‘Faith and education together can change lives’: 338 students celebrate BYU-Pathway education milestones in East Africa

Across East Africa, 338 students celebrated BYU-Pathway education milestones. In Nairobi, Kenya, and Jinja, Uganda, many students received degrees and certifications marking completion of the education program.

8. Church News podcast episode 301: The significance of America250

Ensign College professors Kurt Fertig and Joseph Kerry joined the Church News podcast as they recognized America’s 250th anniversary.

“We may not ever have another moment in the long history of this earth quite like that moment, where all the stars are aligned, when those kind of men are all in the same place, in a building in Philadelphia, where they’re free from oppression and other things that could really limit the ability to create a free government by the people,” said Fertig.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

First Presidency invites all to participate in united fast of gratitude for religious liberty

Listen or watch more episodes of the Church News podcast

See the Church News week in review each Sunday

Running with purpose: Arizona stakes collect food for local pantries

Carly Ludlow — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 23:03:19 +0000

With bags of food in hand, more than 400 members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints crossed the finish line of the second annual Northeast Mesa Grocery Run.

Participants ran to a nearby park in Mesa, Arizona, filled grocery bags with donated food items and carried them back across the finish line.

Organized by the Mesa Arizona Hermosa Vista Stake, the event combined fitness, service and community. Carrying the bags symbolized the physical and emotional effort involved in caring for others.

By the end of the Feb. 21 event, volunteers had collected six truckloads of food for the local Methodist food pantry. The donations replenished pantry shelves and continue to provide essential support to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

Carol Tingey, a JustServe specialist for the Hermosa Vista stake, said one of the event’s greatest impacts has been raising awareness of community needs.

“People know another place to donate or help,” she said. “Another thing that creates awareness is that we are all here to work together. It doesn’t matter what religion, we are all trying to help feed God’s children.”

Latter-day Saints across Arizona are still finding creative ways to combine community races with food drives that strengthen relationships and help local families.

The Phoenix Arizona Desert Hills Stake in Anthem hosted its second annual “5K to Feed the 5K” on March 28.

The race was inspired by the New Testament account of Jesus Christ feeding the five thousand with five loaves and two fish. To keep the focus on the Savior’s example of caring for others, the registration fee was 10 cans of food per participant.

All donated food went to the local Catholic food pantry, St. Vincent de Paul.

“There was a palpable feeling of community and cooperation in the air this year at the 5K,” said Rhonda Lucas, member of the Deseret Hills stake and founder of the event.

More than 130 runners participated, contributing hundreds of food donations for families in need.

After the race, participants returned to the stake center, where they toured rooms filled with artwork depicting the Savior and scenes from His life. Many described the displays as “simple, yet powerful.”

“The most important impact from this event was that our ward was able to work with the Catholic food pantry to make a difference together,” said Lucas. “I think we all learned to appreciate each other more and hopefully will be able to continue to work together to make a difference in the future.”

Together, the two events provided thousands of food donations, strengthened community partnerships and invited participants to put their faith into action through service.

In honor of World Hunger Day, see how the Church is working toward solutions

Missionaries help fight childhood hunger during Thanksgiving service project

Primary children in New Mexico and Arizona lead the way in 9/11 day of service

Remember conference — Elder Taniela B. Wakolo: ‘Come Unto Christ — Together’

Carly Ludlow — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Editor’s note: To support personal and family gospel learning, the Church News is publishing articles on messages from April 2026 general conference. It is recommended to listen to or read the full address in addition to reviewing these resources.

About this talk

“Come Unto Christ — Together”
Elder Taniela B. Wakolo | General Authority Seventy
Sunday afternoon session of April 2026 general conference.
Theme: Those who come unto Jesus Christ with their families live eternally with them.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Elder Wakolo’s message here.

Outline

General conference is a gathering where prophets, seers and revelators testify of Jesus Christ and teach His doctrine so simply it cannot be misunderstood.
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God fulfills His purpose through Jesus Christ. Because of Christ, all can receive the gift of eternal life, which includes living in God’s presence eternally as families.
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President Dallin H. Oaks taught the doctrine of Jesus Christ centers on the family and its intended destiny is to exalt the children of God in eternal families.
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The Lord declared that marriage is ordained of God. Without the sealing authority, families could not be united forever.
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The temple is a symbol of hope. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a bridge to unite families forever.
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Every person is essential to God’s plan, whether or not they or their spouse is a member of the Church.
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Denny and Alex attended different churches, but after getting married, they didn’t know which church to attend. Denny, a Latter-day Saint, kept going to church, and two years later Alex chose baptism. They were later sealed in the temple.
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A 7-year-old boy asked his father to join the Church so he could baptize him. Though the father declined the invitation, love remains, and the invitation continues.
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Bob Hasenyager supported his wife, Marlene, in her faithful desire to attend the temple. He gained a testimony and chose to be baptized. After later being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Bob was sealed in the temple with Marlene just four months before his passing.
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Elder Wakolo’s wife waited eight years for him to join the Church. In her patriarchal blessing, she was promised that a day would come when her husband would take her to the temple to be sealed for time and all eternity, if she remained true and faithful. Over eight years and 24 missionaries later, Elder Wakolo was baptized, and they were sealed in the temple.
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Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know each family. Conversion is personal, timing is individual, and agency is sacred.
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All are invited to come unto Christ. The Savior never forces; He invites, blesses and fulfills promises.
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Reflection questions

How can you help others around you build their relationship with God?

What does it mean to you that God’s plan of happiness is centered on the family?

In what ways can you get closer to the Savior that will help your family?

How have you seen Jesus Christ’s guidance within your family relationships?

What action items can you take to strengthen relationships within your own family?

Speaker quotes

“The gospel of Jesus Christ is not a wedge to divide families but a bridge to unite them eternally.”
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“Brothers and sisters, God keeps His promises — but in His timing.”
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“The Savior never forces. He invites. He blesses. He fulfills promises according to faith and faithfulness.”
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Reference scriptures

“For none of these iniquities come of the Lord; for he doeth that which is good among the children of men; and he doeth nothing save it be plain unto the children of men; and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.”
- 2 Nephi 26:33
“For behold, this is my work and my glory — to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.”
- Moses 1:39
“And again, verily I say unto you, that whoso forbiddeth to marry is not ordained of God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man. Wherefore, it is lawful that he should have one wife, and they twain shall be one flesh, and all this that the earth might answer the end of its creation; And that it might be filled with the measure of man, according to his creation before the world was made.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 49:15–17

Invitations and promises

“The Lord honors patient faith. And it is never too late for miracles.”
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“To all members of the Church — let’s continue to minister one by one and ensure that ‘no one sits alone.’”
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“I invite you to make a commitment and choose to come unto Christ — together.”
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Stories

In New Zealand, Denny and Alex attended different churches. After getting married, they struggled to decide which church to attend. Denny, who was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, felt he could not continue living in a way that felt divided. He listened to his father’s counsel and kept going to church. Two years later, his wife chose to be baptized, and they were later sealed in the house of the Lord.
- Text | Video
A 7-year-old boy in Australia pleaded with his father to join the Church so his father could baptize him. While his father attended church for several years, he had not been baptized. Elder Wakolo met with the father and extended the invitation for him to accept his son’s request. He gently declined, but love remains, and the invitation still stands.
- Text | Video
In Fiji, Elder Wakolo’s wife waited eight years for Elder Wakolo to join the Church. She attended church alone while her husband remained uninterested and hesitant. She, however, continued in her faith and served faithfully. In her patriarchal blessing, she was promised that a day would come when her husband would take her to the temple to be sealed for time and all eternity, if she remained true and faithful. Over eight years and 24 missionaries later, Elder Wakolo was baptized, and they were sealed in the temple.
- Text | Video

Additional resources

Related image: “Family Prayer”
Related video: “Uniting Families for Eternity: Add What You Know”
Related hymn: No. 300, “Families Can Be Together Forever”

Recent conference talks on eternal families

President Dallin H. Oaks: “The Family-Centered Gospel of Jesus Christ” (October 2025)
President Henry B. Eyring: “Simple Is the Doctrine of Jesus Christ” (October 2024)
President M. Russell Ballard: “Remember What Matters Most” (April 2023)

Who is Elder Wakolo?

Elder Taniela B. Wakolo was sustained as a General Authority Seventy in the April 2017 general conference. Elder Wakolo is the first Fijian to serve as an Area Seventy, mission president and General Authority Seventy.

Remember conference — Elder Quentin L. Cook: ‘Keys, Covenants and Easter’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

April 2026 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, photos, session highlights

Remember conference — Elder Neil L. Andersen: ‘Eternal Marriage Is an Eternal Journey’

Carly Ludlow — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

About this talk

“Eternal Marriage Is an Eternal Journey”
Elder Neil L. Andersen | Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Sunday afternoon session of April 2026 general conference.
Theme: Eternal marriage is an eternal journey of becoming who God desires His children to become.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Elder Andersen’s message here.

Outline

Because of the Savior’s victory over death and sin, believers will praise His name forever.
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The sealing power has been restored to the earth, found in dedicated temples today.
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Kneeling at the altar

One experience cemented in Elder Andersen’s memory was kneeling across the altar from his wife, Sister Kathy Andersen, to be sealed for time and all eternity.
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When they knelt across the altar, they realized the depth of their commitment to God and to each other. The sealing ordinance binds together eternal companions and binds them with God.
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Refining our nature

An even greater hope is a desire to refine one’s nature to become more like the Savior, to one day live with Him.
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When increasing love for the Savior, love for each other grows. Eternal marriage is an eternal journey of becoming who God desires His children to become.
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In much of the world, confidence in lasting marriage is diminishing; but in the gospel of Jesus Christ, marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God.
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Preparing for the covenants

Marriage is anticipated with faith and confidence for those who prepare for the covenants they make in the house of the Lord.
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Even in the preparation to enter the temple, individuals realize their lives require more unselfishness, repentance and forgiveness. While embracing life’s happiness and sorrows, keep eyes focused heavenward.
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Relying on the Holy Ghost

The companionship of the Holy Ghost is profoundly needed in personal life and in marriage.
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One deception of the world is to discount the sacred importance and the actual power of the sealing ordinance. Hope in each other and Jesus Christ can overcome this deception.
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Allow the Lord to expand spiritual gifts of understanding and patience in marriage.
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Every true disciple of Jesus Christ, if desired, will be eternally sealed to a companion, whether in this life or the next.
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There are situations where divorce should be considered, but the cautions are significant.
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Caring for each other

A devoted husband and wife faced many unexpected health challenges throughout their marriage but remained faithful to each other and to God. Through prayer, service and hope in eternal promises, they endured their trials together with love and perseverance.
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Receiving the strength

God gives power and strength to hold tight to an eternal companion.
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Reflection questions

What can you do now to strengthen your family relationships for eternity?

Why is it important that the sealing power has been restored?

What are specific action items from listening to Elder Andersen’s talk that you want to implement into your life today?

How can you support people with nontraditional family structures or relationships?

What can we learn from Elder Andersen about the role of families in God’s plan?

Speaker quotes

“As we increase our love for the Savior, our love for each other grows. Like our own discipleship, our eternal marriage is not a short-term experiment but a journey, an eternal journey of becoming who God desires us to become.”
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“We anticipate our marriage with faith and confidence because we conscientiously prepare for the covenants we make in the house of the Lord.”
- Text | Video
“While embracing the happiness and sorrows of life’s experiences, we etch our covenants indelibly upon our souls, and we keep our eyes focused heavenward, toward the glorious destination awaiting us.”
- Text | Video

Reference scriptures

“And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
- Matthew 16:19
“Verily I say unto you, blessed are you for receiving mine everlasting covenant, even the fulness of my gospel, sent forth unto the children of men, that they might have life and be made partakers of the glories which are to be revealed in the last days, as it was written by the prophets and apostles in days of old.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 66:2
“Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. ... But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
- Isaiah 40:28–29, 31

Invitations and promises

“We solemnly vow to keep the covenants, and the Lord promises us, as we are faithful, unspeakable blessings in mortality and beyond, including thrones, powers and dominions in the eternal world.”
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“Keep your hope in each other and in Jesus Christ. His promises can see us through the obstacles and distractions.”
- Text | Video
“Every true disciple of Jesus Christ, if it is his or her desire, will be eternally sealed to a righteous companion of his or her choosing throughout eternity, whether in this life or the next.”
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Stories

A faithful couple began their marriage with hope and promise, but the wife later faced serious health challenges. The husband turned to God through prayer and fasting and cared for his wife with patience, love and humility. Their faith in their covenants and the hope of being together eternally gave them strength during difficult times. As they remained devoted to each other, they experienced joy as parents and grandparents despite ongoing trials.
- Text | Video

From the footnotes

7. For an explanation of the conditions and blessings associated with the covenant of eternal marriage, see “Temple Sealing,” in General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3.5.3.5: “In the sealing ordinance, a man and a woman make a covenant with God and with each other. They covenant and promise to receive one another as husband and wife, counsel and labor together in love and righteousness, and fulfill their divinely appointed roles as husband and wife and as father and mother. A man and woman who are faithful to this covenant are joined together as husband and wife for all eternity. The couple has sealed upon them … all the blessings of God’s everlasting covenant, the highest of which is exaltation with eternal posterity (see Doctrine and Covenants 132:19–20; see also 66:2; 131:1–4; and 27.3 and 38.4 in this handbook).”

Additional resources

Related image: “Family Prayer”
Related video: “What Is a Temple Wedding Like?”
Related hymn: No. 300, “Families Can Be Together Forever”

Recent conference talks on eternal families

President Dallin H. Oaks: “The Family-Centered Gospel of Jesus Christ” (October 2025)
Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “The Family Proclamation — Words From God” (October 2025)
Elder Matthew L. Carpenter: “Fruit That Remains” (April 2024)

Who is Elder Andersen?

Elder Neil L. Andersen was sustained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 4, 2009. He had served as a General Authority Seventy since 1993, during which time he managed development of the film “The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd” and supervised the initial launch of Mormon.org, now ComeUntoChrist.org.

Remember conference — President Susan H. Porter: ‘Here Am I, Send Me’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

April 2026 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, photos, session highlights

Church News

How the new hymn ‘The Miracle’ teaches children about Christ’s miracles

In case you missed it: President Oaks dedicates Belo Horizonte Brazil Temple, plus 9 more stories

1. President Oaks dedicates Belo Horizonte Brazil Temple

2. Elder Bednar dedicates Cleveland Ohio Temple, bringing the house of the Lord ‘back home’ to northeast Ohio

3. Elder Bednar to speak at 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference devotional

4. Elder Kearon invites listeners to slow down and bask in the Savior’s promised peace — right now

5. President Chibota speaks to missionaries of 4 sources of power

6. ‘Jesus Christ is your strength,’ Young Women general presidency shares from FSY guide

7. How youth can turn FSY’s spiritual momentum into lifelong discipleship

8. New experiences coming to Temple Square

9. Ground broken for Alabama’s second temple, to be ‘source of strength, light and hope’

10. Church News podcast, Episode 308: Elder Bragg on family history, records custodians and the gathering of Israel

See what Elder Bragg told archivists in Cambodia this week here.

A move of faith leads one Latter-day Saint to her ancestors in South Carolina

From water drives to community gardens, Latter-day Saints serve across U.S. Southwest Area

Primary children lead water drive

Youth prepare new garden

Service at Community First! Village

Youth help food insecurity

Iam Tongi and guest artists bring music and faith to 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference

In case you missed it: President Oaks marks his 94th birthday, Elder Rasband speaks at MTC, plus 8 more stories

1. How President Oaks celebrated his 94th birthday

2. Elder Rasband’s ‘highlight reel’: Missionary insights from 2026 Seminar for New Mission Leaders

3. Elder Gong attends Phnom Penh Cambodia temple media day as open house begins

4. 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference features both Sister Spannaus and Sister Yee

5. New Primary general presidency shares its hope for children around the world

6. Podcast Episode 307: Young single adults prepare for Utah Area conference

7. Salt Lake Temple Celebration volunteer applications reopen, with 1-week service option

8. Temple news: Groundbreaking date set for Spain’s second house of the Lord; Fort Worth Texas Temple dedication, open house planned

9. ‘A fundamental human right’: Elder Villar champions religious freedom at Peru’s first symposium

10. More than 85,000 of other faiths enroll in seminary and institute

New Primary general presidency shares its hope for children around the world

Seeing as God sees

Joy of learning His gospel

Grow as disciples of Christ

Childhood Primary song leads Latter-day Saint with Down syndrome to a place of temple service

In case you missed it: Church releases instructional videos for Sunday schedule changes, plus 8 more stories

1. Church releases instructional videos for September Sunday schedule changes

2. ‘Camp Hesed’: How a tabernacle replica and a call with President Christofferson blessed 400 Alaskan youth

3. More than 52 million women and children blessed by Church initiative

4. 2 temple groundbreakings: Santos Brazil Temple and Naga Philippines Temple

5. Elder Gilbert to dedicate third house of the Lord in Wyoming, and the relocated Anchorage Alaska Temple to be dedicated next summer

6. Elder Dunn celebrates faith and family with first pitch at Arizona baseball game

7. Episode 306: New Testament themes for 2027 ‘Come, Follow Me’ with institute teacher Donny Anderson

8. Church leaders in Nigeria inspire others through BYU-Pathway Worldwide enrollment

9. Family of 4-year-old who nearly died in Uruguay shares how God’s power helped save her life

Church continues to expand its relief efforts in Venezuela

In case you missed it: Elder Cook speaks to BYU–Pathway Worldwide students, plus 7 other stories

1. Elder Cook to BYU–Pathway students: ‘Strengthen your faith as you face life’s challenges’

Read more about Elder Cook’s BYU–Pathway devotional here.

2. What mission does the Lord have for you? Single men and women over 40 are answering the call to serve

Read more about Elder Rasband’s Liahona article here.

3. Church News podcast, Episode 305: Primary general presidency talks about discovering the ‘character of the Lord’ by serving children

Listen to or watch the podcast episode here.

4. Knowledge and testimony of plan of salvation ‘changes everything,’ Sister Wright teaches

Read more about Sister Wright’s devotional here.

5. 3 new statues of Christ installed on Temple Square

Read about these statues here.

6. Temple news: Colorado Springs Colorado Temple groundbreaking date set, 2 Mexico temples to be dedicated this November

Read more about the upcoming Colorado Springs temple groundbreaking here.

Read more about the two Mexico temples to be dedicated here.

7. Updates to Gospel Library app support youth, Relief Society, elders quorum

8. Thousands baptized in Sierra Leone Bo Mission in past 2 years as Church grows in African country

Read more about the Sierra Leone growth here.

Hip Hop Homies helps dancers with Down syndrome find friendship and joy

In case you missed it: President Oaks speaks on families, President Johnson is parade marshal, plus 7 more stories

1. ‘Pull together’ as families, says Church President Dallin H. Oaks at biennial family reunion

2. President Camille N. Johnson serves as Days of ’47 Parade grand marshal

3. A smile, a note, a prayer: President Farnes offers simple ways youth can be missionaries now

4. Outgoing Primary general presidency reflects on growing children’s discipleship

5. Strengthening gospel teaching through teacher council meetings

6. Church News podcast, Episode 304: Preparing for the Salt Lake Temple Celebration

7. Groundbreaking date set for Maceió Brazil Temple

8. Lessons from the Teton Dam flood, 50 years later

9. 10 new hymns released in ‘Hymns for Home and Church’

Youth across Asia strengthen faith through conferences, FSY and service

Mongolian Youth Resilience Conference strengthens faith

Thai youth participate in community service project

International FSY conference guides youth to Christ