Church News

In case you missed it: President Nelson announces Salt Lake Temple open house dates, Elder Bednar featured on Friend to Friend, plus 8 more stories

Emerson Manning — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 23:17:24 +0000

During the week of Feb. 9-15, President Russell M. Nelson announced the open house dates for the reopening of the Salt Lake Temple on Friday, Feb. 14. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is featured in the Friend to Friend.

The new Church News video features a recent interview with Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, the commissioner of Church education and General Authority Seventy.

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Kathy Andersen are set to speak during RootsTech 2025. President Camille N. Johnson, the Relief Society general president, spoke to missionaries at the Provo Missionary Training Center.

This week’s Church News podcast episode featured the Primary General President Susan H. Porter; Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor; and Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor. The Toronto Ontario Temple is now open for public tours following recent renovations and prior to its late-March rededication.

Fifteen more songs were added to the growing catalog of new hymns of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Learn how to foster a welcoming environment for children with disabilities at church.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. President Nelson announces Salt Lake Temple open house

“A current and comprehensive renovation to strengthen this sacred house of the Lord for future generations is now nearing completion,” wrote President Nelson in his recent social media post after announcing the Salt Lake Temple will open to the public from April to October 2027.

2. Children learn about sharing Jesus’ love through service in February Friend to Friend with Elder Bednar, Primary general presidency

As a Primary class in Salt Lake City learned how to plan, invite and serve, they learned more about their capacity to share Jesus Christ’s love through service.

“The whole point of service is to help us bless other people, because that is what Jesus did,” Elder Bednar told the children. “And if we are His disciples, we should be looking for opportunities to serve and bless other people.”

3. Video: Why Latter-day Saints should ‘Trust the Youth’

“We are doing everything we can to invest in them and to help them succeed,” said Elder Christofferson in a recent Church News interview.

In his role as chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of the Church Educational System, Elder Christofferson sees the fruits born of that rising generation on a regular basis.

4. Elder Neil L. Andersen to speak about temples, family history work at RootsTech Family Discovery Day

Elder Andersen and his wife, Sister Kathy Andersen, will speak during RootsTech 2025’s Family Discovery Day.

They will share personal messages focused on accessing the blessings of the temple and family history, and Elder Andersen will also take attendees on a virtual journey to the dairy farm of his youth.

5. Missionaries can ‘mind the gap’ through personal relationship with Christ, says President Johnson

Speaking at the Provo Missionary Training Center, President Johnson acknowledged the missionaries may see a gap between who they are now and the disciples of Christ they are working to become.

“The Savior ‘minds the gap’ between my capacity and what He has called me to do,” said President Johnson. “I know He will do the same for you.”

6. Episode 227: Primary general presidency invites children to share Jesus’ love through service

The Primary General presidency discussed their sacred responsibility of inviting children around the world to serve.

Through this worldwide effort, children can realize they are an important part of the Church and can contribute in meaningful ways.

Listen to the podcast here.

Primary general presidency invites children to watch February Friend to Friend

Listen to more episodes of the Church News podcast

7. Renovated Toronto Ontario Temple opens for media, public tours

The Toronto Ontario Temple open house was hosted by three General Authority Seventies — Elder Kevin R. Duncan, executive director of the Temple Department, and Elder Mathias Held and Elder Robert M. Daines, counselors in the North America Northeast Area presidency.

President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is set to rededicate the house of the Lord in the Toronto.

8. Biggest release yet for new hymnbook includes 15 songs

Fifteen new hymns were released in the third batch of published songs, which is the largest release of the project to date.

The Church has now released 37 new songs that may be sung in Church meetings, at home and in other settings.

9. How to help children with disabilities at church

Makell and Orion Burgoyne have seen firsthand how simple, thoughtful acts by others can make a huge difference in church being a welcoming place for their family.

“Just that small thoughtful thing was so big,” Makell Burgoyne said. “It was big for me, it was big for Orion, it was big for Marcy.”

Making songs of devotion part of one’s everyday listening

Emerson Manning — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 16:18:35 +0000

Following the release of two digital sacred music collections — one in November 2023 and the other just earlier this month — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has added more online contemporary hymn arrangements and updated its Sacred Music app.

This includes two new albums and playlists that will both appear in the Music Library on ChurchofJesusChrist.org and in the Sacred Music app in a new featured music folder called “Music for Everyday Listening.”

Information about the updates was published in an Oct. 18 news release from the Church.

Newest features

One of the featured albums is the second volume of “Songs of Devotion,” a collection of music that allows individuals to draw closer to God through their own musical style. The other album features member-submitted covers of hymns and children’s songs following a call for such music earlier this year. Besides the full album, additional songs will soon start appearing monthly and can be used as study resources in the digital “Come, Follow Me” lesson manuals.

The initial two playlists introduced as new features are “Peaceful Moments” and “Latter-day Vibes.” Each playlist provides a selection of calm and uplifting tunes, offering hours of listening enjoyment from the Church’s existing music library.

In addition, the newest update to the Sacred Music app (part of version 2.3) introduces a feature that allows users to create and synchronize their own playlists across their accounts. This ensures that one’s playlists will remain on the account even after updating or reinstalling the app. In an upcoming version, playlists will be accessible across different channels and available in the online Music Library.

Major update for Church music website

In the upcoming version, playlists in the Sacred Music app will be shareable between users. For example, event organizers for camps, conferences or special occasions could share a playlist that aligns with the event’s theme. A choir director might distribute a concise playlist to choir members containing recordings of songs for upcoming performances, while Primary leaders could provide parents with a playlist featuring all the songs for the children’s sacrament meeting presentation.

In Doctrine and Covenants 25:12, the Lord told Emma Smith, “For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.”

The new features can bring together individuals, families and congregations in meaningful musical worship and draw upon the promised blessings coming from “the song of the heart.”

‘Amazing Grace,’ 8 other hymns part of newest release

First 13 songs released for new hymnbook

Emerson Manning: My own road to Emmaus

Emerson Manning — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

As a cast member of the musical “Savior of the World: His Birth and Resurrection” in 2024, I grew closer to my Savior in several ways, with one experience particularly deepening my connection to Christ.

In the show’s second act, I usually joined other cast members on the colonnade as we portrayed angels, allowing me to watch the second act almost in its entirety.

Looking down as scripture stories came to life on stage, I found myself anticipating the same scene each night — the visitation of the resurrected Savior.

As the actor portraying the Savior entered the stage — with lights illuminating the pure-white costume — an overwhelming feeling of peace and hope filled my heart, and tears filled my eyes. I felt as if the Savior were there.

One night during the run’s final week, I was asked to help with a backstage task during the second act. Positioning myself behind a panel, I realized I would not be able to see the Savior. Disappointed, I thought that if I couldn’t see the Savior, the Spirit would not be felt.

I listened in darkness to the portrayal of Cleopas and an accompanying disciple on the road to Emmaus. Luke 24:13-32 tells that after mourning the death of the Savior and losing hope He would return, the two are met by the Savior on the road to Emmaus, not recognizing Him, because “their eyes were holden” (verse 16).

In the production, Cleopas recounts the experience and asks, “Tell me, when did you first recognize it was Jesus?”

The disciple answers, “When He took the bread and blessed it.”

“Yes,” says Cleopas. “It was just like in Galilee, when He fed the five thousand, there was that feeling.”

They continue, questioning their sadness, why the Savior appeared to them and how they could have been slow to believe. In response to each other’s doubts, they sing: “Did not our hearts burn within us as He walked with us? Did not He open the scriptures by the way? Did not He come as promised to even us to take our sins away?”

As the scene concluded, I initially questioned how they were not able to recognize the Savior as He walked with them. But I then thought, “How many times in my life have I walked side by side with the Savior and not recognized Him?”

Moments later, I heard the familiar strains of “I Stand All Amazed,” recognizing it as the moment in the production that the Savior would enter.

I frantically tried finding any hole or crack in the stage’s panel to see the Savior — but to no avail. But I heard the familiar line, “Peace be unto you” (Luke 24:36).

I listened in darkness to the remainder of the show, including the portrayal of Thomas, who unlike the other apostles had not seen the risen Christ.

As Thomas sang, “Except I shall see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into His side, I will not believe,” it paralleled my initial thought that if I couldn’t see the Savior appear onstage, the Spirit would not be felt and the experience wouldn’t be the same.

In a July 2023 Liahona article titled “Our Own Road to Emmaus,” Elder Patricio M. Giuffra, a General Authority Seventy, says belief is not dependent solely on physical evidence but also on faith and spiritual discernment. Recognizing Jesus Christ in our personal lives and spiritual journeys requires being spiritually attentive and open to Christ’s presence in everyday life, he taught.

In “Savior of the World,” the apostle Peter recalls how Cleopas and the disciple walked side by side the Savior, spoke to Him and yet did not recognize Him. Peter tells Thomas, “To see Him, Thomas — to see Him as He is, for who He is — we must look with our hearts.”

Tearfully, I listened and felt the profound presence of the Spirit.

As the Savior returned to the stage to appear to Thomas, I looked down from my place backstage — I couldn’t see the actor portraying the resurrected Christ, but I could see the light illuminating him on stage. Seeing the light and feeling the Spirit helped me know the Savior was there.

On each person’s own road to Emmaus, taught Elder Giuffra, “we may not see how He stays with us, strives with us, works with us and cries with us. Even in our saddest moments, if we take notice, we can feel Him with us and hear His words: ‘Be still, and know that I am God’ (Psalm 46:10).”

I now know I need not see the Savior with my eyes to know He is there, nor do I need to see Him walking alongside me to know He will be with me every step of the way.

— Emerson Manning recently concluded an internship with the Church News.

The personal and spiritual impact of ‘Savior of the World’

First Presidency witnesses of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection in Easter social media messages

‘Come and see’: Finding the long-promised Messiah in our study of the New Testament

In case you missed it: President Holland featured in recent video, Elder Cook ministers in Asia, plus 8 more stories

Emerson Manning — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 16:58:49 +0000

During the week of March 2-8, President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, was featured in a Church News video.

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met with members and missionaries during his recent Asia Area ministry. During his ministry in the Bicol Region of the Philippines, Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles visited and met with hundreds of Latter-day Saints.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; Elder Kevin W. Pearson, a General Authority Seventy and the Utah Area president; and Sharon Eubank, director of the Church’s humanitarian services and a former counselor in the Relief Society general presidency; spoke on education to young adults in Utah. Elder Michael A. Dunn, a General Authority Seventy, spoke to students and faculty during a BYU devotional.

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles joined members of the Church’s Temple and Family History Executive Council during the 2025 Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction. Primary General President Susan H. Porter and Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, spoke to youth during the first-ever Global Youth Activity.

In the newest Church News podcast episode, Jonathan Wing, director of events for FamilySearch International, talks about RootsTech 2025. Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke as a keynote speaker during the 2025 Utah Coalition Against Pornography Conference.

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, and Sister Kristin M. Yee, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, taught and ministered in the Africa Central Area.

Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman and her counselors, Sister Tamara W. Runia and Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, posted a video to the Young Women Worldwide Instagram account and Facebook page.

Ground has been broken for the Cali Colombia Temple. Read the numbers of donors and donations from the Light the World Giving Machine initiative during the 2024 Christmas season.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Video: President Holland shares feelings of love to those rebuilding from fires in Southern California

Following fires that displaced nearly 200,000 people and destroyed homes across multiple cities, President Holland ministered in Van Nuys, California, to Latter-day Saints whose lives have been turned upside down by the tragedy.

Watch this video here.

President Holland’s message to Southern California Saints after wildfires

Embracing faith, hope and resilience after Southern California wildfires

2. Elder Cook ministers in Asia, Elder Rasband ministers in the Philippines

During his ministry in Asia, Elder Cook underscores importance of having a prophet and faith in Jesus Christ as he invited members and missionaries in Cambodia, Taiwan and Malaysia to be steadfast in their faith.

Elder Rasband invited members in the Philippines to rededicate their lives in preparation for temples being built, saying they are their “family’s pioneers.”

3. Elder Christofferson speaks to young adults in the Utah Area, Elder Dunn speaks at BYU

Speaking to thousands of high school seniors and young adults throughout the Utah Area during an educational devotional broadcast, Elder Christofferson assured: “The Lord wants to help you. You are doing what He has asked. You are doing what He has counseled you to do through the Prophet.”

During a BYU devotional, Elder Dunn told students to embrace the divine and shape the future with faith. “Keep your focus on matters within your control, and let go of those which shimmer but in reality are counterfeit. Refuse to seek treasure where there is only trash,” he said.

Read about the Utah Area devotional here.

Read about Elder Dunn’s devotional here.

Church leaders encourage Latter-day Saint youth in Utah to ‘dream big’ in regards to education

‘God’s power is both within us and very much within our reach,’ says Elder Dunn at Ensign College

4. Elder Andersen speaks at Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction; President Porter, Brother Wilcox speak at first-ever Global Youth Activity

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught how honoring covenants can be “wonderfully satisfying as we know we are doing our part,” during the 2025 Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction. Other Church leaders offered insights on accessing God’s power through temple ordinances and covenants.

During the Global Youth Activity, President Porter and Brother Wilcox taught the 4,600 youth in attendance how they can help ancestors obtain a covenantal relationship with Christ.

5. Episode 230: RootsTech 2025 helps attendees around the world ‘discover’ their family heritage

Jonathan Wing shares a preview to events of RootsTech 2025 and discusses how family history can help individuals and families discover, connect and become part of the family of God.

Listen to this podcast episode here.

FamilySearch CEO Steve Rockwood opens RootsTech 2025 with invitation to ‘discover’ family history

See more of Church News' coverage of RootsTech and family history

6. Elder Kearon on the ‘beautifully optimistic trio’ of hope, help and healing when overcoming pornography

Testifying of the Savior’s power, Elder Kearon focused his remarks on what he described as the “beautifully optimistic trio” of hope, help and healing for anyone harmed by pornography.

7. Sister Wright and Sister Yee build and encourage Saints in 4 central African countries

During their ministry, the general officers spoke to missionaries, held instruction, ministered to individuals and families, and taught members and their friends in several settings in Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania.

They were joined at different times by members of the Church’s Africa Central Area presidency: Elder Thierry K. Mutombo, president; Elder Paul B. Pieper, first counselor; and Elder Christophe G. Giraud-Carrier, second counselor; all General Authority Seventies.

8. ‘Jesus Christ is your strength,’ teaches Young Women general presidency

During a recent live video on the Young Women Worldwide accounts, the Young Women general presidency discussed the second chapter of the “For the Strength of Youth” guide, titled “Jesus Christ Will Help You.”

9. Ground broken for Cali Colombia Temple

Elder Jorge T. Becerra, a General Authority Seventy and president of the South America Northwest Area, presided at the March 1 groundbreaking ceremony.

He referenced the parable of the sower, inviting attendees to remove weeds from their hearts and transform their habits, saying, “Each one of us needs to change something in our lives so that the Lord can sow in our hearts, and thus achieve greater peace and happiness.”

10. Light the World Giving Machine initiative ‘a living miracle’

Throughout the 2024 Christmas season, people around the world gave generously to support others in need by donating at a Light the World Giving Machine donation station.

“The annual Light the World Giving Machine initiative is a living miracle,” said Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The impact is reflected in numbers released by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Wednesday, March 5.

In case you missed it: Read what President Nelson has taught about the Articles of Faith, President Holland in California, plus 9 more stories

Emerson Manning — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 18:28:12 +0000

Church News articles from the week of Feb. 23 to March 1 included teachings of President Russell M. Nelson to celebrate the 183rd anniversary of the Articles of Faith first being published and the counsel and consoling given by President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, to Latter-day Saints affected by the California wildfires.

Also, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ministered in Europe and the Middle East, and Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met with king of the Ga people in Ghana.

Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles returned to Church’s Africa South Area, and Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke to young adults at Utah State University.

Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles testified during The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square took the stage during the “Songs of Hope” concert in Lima, Peru. The past week’s Church News podcast episode featured the Relief Society general presidency.

Read about recent ministry in the Asia North Area by Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman and Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency. Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, spoke during a BYU–Hawaii devotional.

Read the Church’s statement following recent court ruling on the use of tithes and donations. The Temple Square southwest quadrant has now reopened to public. The exterior rendering for the Lehi Utah Temple has been released, and doors have been opened to the new Auckland New Zealand Temple, for media day and public tours.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Here’s how President Nelson has testified of the Articles of Faith as Prophet

Saturday marked 183 years since these simple yet profound statements were first published.

Here’s what President Nelson has said as President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to add his witness to Joseph Smith’s 1842 declarations.

2. President Holland’s message to Southern California Saints after wildfires

President Holland brought a message of God’s love, empathy and understanding when he visited members of two stakes affected by devastating wildfires in Southern California.

Though he cannot restore their homes or take away their challenges, he said, “I can come to cry with you and tell you that I love you.”

3. Elder Bednar teaches about covenants, grace in Europe and Middle East

During his ministry in European and Middle Eastern countries, Elder Bednar taught Saints about covenants.

He taught, “The power of godliness provides us with strength, capacity and grace beyond our own — and we are enabled to do things we could never otherwise do."

4. Elder Christofferson meets with king of the Ga people in Ghana; in return to Zambia, Elder Renlund shares 5 foundational principles for life

When meeting The Ga Mantse — king of the Ga people, Elder Christofferson presented the king with a framed painting of the Savior holding a lamp.

“We hope you think of us when you look at this,” Elder Christofferson said, and added that perhaps the king could hang the painting in the children’s hospital after its completion.

During his ministry in the Africa South Area, Elder Renlund taught about five foundational principles to help overcome challenges in life.

“If we stand by the first four — knowing our identity, our faith in Jesus Christ, our firm belief in the Restoration of the gospel, and developing Christlike love and unity — the natural outcome is a deep desire to join the Savior in His work, to assist Him in His glorious mission,” Elder Renlund said.

5. Elder Andersen bears and shares ‘witnesses’ of the Prophet Joseph Smith

While speaking to several thousand young adults during the Utah State devotional, Elder Andersen said that witnesses can be observers or eyewitnesses who see, hear or know by personal experience.

“Witnesses establish the truth, helping others to strengthen their belief,” Elder Andersen said.

6. Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra concert in Peru’s National Stadium celebrates hope, Latin America culture

Elder Soares testified at the beginning of the concert that Jesus Christ is the source of hope and light.

He said: “Lasting hope and peace is possible because of the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which He carried out in love for us all. His example and teachings illuminate the path on which we must walk in our lives.”

7. Episode 229: Celebrate ‘covenant community’ at the Relief Society worldwide devotional with President Camille N. Johnson and Sister Kristin M. Yee

Members of Relief Society general presidency discuss filming in Nauvoo, Illinois, and the origins and purpose of the organization.

Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson and Sister Kristin M. Yee, second counselor, also preview the worldwide devotional and testimony meeting that emphasizes the importance of covenant community, serving God and others with love, and drawing spiritual power from covenants and divine authority.

Listen to this week’s podcast episode here.

Relief Society worldwide devotional and testimony meeting to celebrate ‘covenant community’

Power of covenant-keeping women celebrated during 2024 Relief Society anniversary worldwide gathering

8. Discipleship is an ‘amazing adventure’: Young Women and Primary leaders minister in Asia

Across the Asia North Area, President Freeman and Sister Browning testified of Jesus Christ and the joy of discipleship.

Sharing thoughts on the Saints they met during their ministry, Sister Browning said, “They are blessed with deep faith in Jesus Christ and a sincere desire to keep their covenants.”

President Freeman added that she loves “how they strengthen each other and how they find joy within the gospel.”

9. Quell evil through faith in Jesus Christ, ‘power of our testimonies,’ Sister Spannaus teaches

Sister Spannaus began her devotional inviting listeners to picture themselves in Egypt atop a tall mountain thousands of years ago — sharing the story of Moses and how he turned to the Lord in faith.

“It was by putting our faith in Jesus Christ, the Lamb, and by the power of our testimonies that we won,” said Sister Spannaus, adding: “My dear friends, we had that faith before we came to earth. And we can do the same now.”

10. Church releases statement following recent court ruling on the use of tithes and donations

A statement released by the Church following a recent court ruling on the use of tithes and donations reads:

“How the Church of Jesus Christ, or any faith, administers its tithes and offerings is an important part of the freedoms afforded to religions as part of their sacred responsibilities.”

11. Temple News: Temple Square southwest quadrant reopens to public; Lehi Utah Temple exterior rendering released plus Auckland New Zealand Temple begins public tours and media day

With the reopening of the southwest quadrant, the public can visit the Salt Lake Tabernacle and Assembly Hall as well as the FamilySearch Library and Church History Museum across the street. Landscaping in the area is still underway.

After being announced in the April 2024 general conference, the Lehi Utah Temple now has its exterior rendering published.

Media day for the Auckland New Zealand Temple had visitors welcomed by the Pacific Area presidency of Elder Peter F. Meurs, Elder Taniela B. Wakolo and Elder Jeremy R. Jaggi, as well as Elder Steven R. Bangerter and Elder K. Brett Nattress, both assistant executive directors in the Temple Department.

‘A mighty army of caring people’: Church’s donation to Tennessee medical facility

Emerson Manning — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 19:00:00 +0000

In February, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made a significant donation to the Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge — a Tennessee organization that provides no-charge primary and medical care for those enrolled in their medical service program, ensuring that patients can focus on their jobs, education and family life without worrying about medical costs.

FMCOR executive director Billy Edmonds explained that as an organization, they are ”here to serve the 14,000 residents in the state’s Anderson, Morgan and Roane counties who might not always need us, but we’re ready to help whenever they do.”

This donation will not only permit the FMCOR to expand their care to 14,000 uninsured and underinsured residents in three Tennessee counties but will allow for critical renovations, medical supplies and equipment and the complete remodeling for a future medical facility — thus supporting the clinic’s mission to provide free primary and medical care to those enrolled in the medical service program.

“This donation is a game-changer for families in great need who can’t afford medical care,” said Edmonds. “We knew this was the silver bullet that would make a difference. It’s amazing how God can take one relationship and turn it into a mighty army of caring people.”

How a stake in Oregon is finding opportunities to share God’s light

Lifting God’s children

On Feb. 8, FMCOR board members, volunteers and 20 local and regional leaders of the Church gathered to tour the future medical facility — a former armory building donated by the city of Oak Ridge to the FMCOR.

The remodeling plan includes a complete redesign of the clinic’s 13,000-square-foot facility, with updates to the electrical and plumbing systems, a new roof and new awnings.

The project is expected to take about 18 months, and the new facility will allow FMCOR to increase its capacity by 300% and expand mental health services by 1,000%, Edmonds said. Last year, the clinic provided about $9 million in free mental health care.

“This project will help lift God’s children physically and mentally in ways they can’t do on their own,” said Elder Nathan A. Craig, an Area Seventy in the Church’s North America Southeast Area. “As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are driven to follow His example, to lift the hands which hang down and love our neighbors.”

Other leaders in attendance included President Daniel Tobler, president of the Knoxville Tennessee Cumberland Stake; Lori Cupp, the stake’s Relief Society president; and Kimberly Montierth, communications director for the Church’s Tennessee Knoxville Coordinating Council.

The completed facility will include 18 exam rooms and a nurse’s station for primary care, as well as spaces for specialty care, preventive care, women’s health, mental health services, dental and vision care and office space.

Reflecting on the project’s significance, President Tobler said, “You’re bringing this building back to health. It’s symbolic of the great work you do for the community. It’ll be a fabulous vision to behold. I think it’s great we’ll be able to observe the progress in a similar way that God does with us.”

Towards the end of the tour, those in attendance joined hands as President Tobler offered a prayer that, once the remodeling effort is complete, “lives may be blessed, that people may be uplifted, edified and strengthened.”

Church-supported garden in Alberta grows 16,000 pounds of fresh produce each year for those in need

Church donates $1.3 million to Helena food bank in Montana

How members in Peru and Argentina are rebuilding lives and communities

Emerson Manning — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 18:59:44 +0000

In recent months, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Argentina and Peru have reaffirmed their commitment to the values of care and love for their neighbors through various acts of selfless service.

From enhancing schools to rebuilding homes, these actions reflect a profound dedication to community well-being, showcasing the power of selfless service. Their collective efforts have significantly improved both the physical environment and community unity.

The dedication of these volunteers exemplifies their commitment to those in need and demonstrates the positive impact that service can have on the community.

Service as a source of joy in La Plata, Argentina

In January, volunteers gathered at the Technical School No. 3, in La Plata, Argentina, to carry out some well-needed enhancements, according to the Church’s Argentina Newsroom.

These acts of service — roof repairs, tree pruning, clearing weeds, maintaining the building and its gardens, debris cleanup and painting the facade — not only transformed the appearance of the school but also created a safer and more welcoming environment for students and teachers.

School officials expressed their gratitude, describing the work as a source of joy and pride for the educational community.

At the Municipal Kindergarten and Nursery School N°5, members from La Plata also joined forces to carry out painting, weeding, pruning and maintenance of the building and its gardens, improving the environment and creating a more suitable space for children and its staff.

The action was an example of the volunteers’ dedication and commitment to those who need it most.

The volunteers in La Plata also worked on cleaning and enhancing the promenade located between the 7th and 90th Streets. They collected waste, improved the paths and pruned trees, restoring functionality, beautifying the environment and also promoting the care of shared resources to a space used by the neighbors.

How members in Peru ‘reflect the Savior’s love and service’

A selfless service in Peru

On December 25, 2024, tragedy struck in the Túpac Amaru Inca district in Pisco, Peru. when a fire broke out around 1:00 a.m. — according to the Church’s Peru Newsroom — destroying four homes and leaving several families homeless on a day often filled with joy and family unity.

In response to the tragedy, the district mayor, Dr. Fresia Choccña Sánchez, personally reached out to Bishop Henry Jhonatan Gutiérrez Ubaqui, leader of the La Villa Ward in the Pisco Peru Stake, for support.

Brother Jesus Nina, counselor in the La Villa Ward bishopric, and Walter Balarezo Ramos, president of the elders quorum, put ward members into immediate action.

The Church’s volunteer group, called “Manos que Ayudan” [Helping Hands], known for its selfless service in the community, came together on Dec. 26 and 27. Together they were able to accomplish the following:

A thorough cleaning of the area affected by the fire.
Construction of a plywood module to provide a safe space where the Lisbet Barrios Alache family and their loved ones could spend the night.
Members of the La Villa Relief Society collected food and other essential items to support the victims in this difficult time.

After devastating fire in Ecuador, Church members serve ‘shoulder to shoulder’ to repair damage

Following Christ’s example

Following the service, the affected families expressed their gratitude for the quick and willing response of those who helped them begin rebuilding their lives.

This joint effort was a reminder of the commitment of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to serve others, especially in times of need.

The activity not only alleviated the immediate needs of the affected families but also strengthened the ties between the Church and the community of Túpac Amaru Inca.

By following the example of Jesus Christ, who taught to love and serve others, the members demonstrated how small acts of kindness can have a significant impact.

This experience serves as a testament to the power of selfless service and how unity can transform even the darkest moments into opportunities to share light and hope.

Latter-day Saints help with Chile fire recovery

California fires: Church meetinghouses safe; Latter-day Saints and neighbors still evacuated

Church, Puerto Rico governor promote ‘principles of faith’

Emerson Manning — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 20:05:18 +0000

In January 2025, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — as well as other ecclesiastical representatives — participated in the first faith-based meeting held in San Juan, Puerto Rico as part of the official inauguration ceremonies of Gov. Jenniffer González Colón, the new governor of Puerto Rico, a United States territory.

The Church said that together with Gov. González, it will continue to promote the principles of faith, love and hope, with the goal of promoting social transformation, according to the Church’s Puerto Rico Newsroom.

Among the authorities who attended the inauguration were Erick Kolthoff, the judge of the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico, and Moisés Román, the president of the Evangelical Militia Immaculata churches of Puerto Rico.

The Church of Jesus Christ shared and reiterated its commitment to continue collaborating with the government and other institutions in the territory on the importance of strengthening families as a fundamental basis for ensuring a strong and unified society.

Herminio Gómez, the Church’s communications director in Puerto Rico, who attended with President José R. Toro, president of the Toa Baja Puerto Rico Stake, said: “We join in wishing success to our governor and her team, trusting that they will lead with wisdom, integrity and the desire to serve the Puerto Rican people.”

Elder Soares makes the case for compassion at International Religious Freedom Summit in Washington, D.C.

Church leaders, Tongan prime minister discuss ways Church and government can help country’s children and youth

In case you missed it: President Oaks shares an Easter message, Elder Stevenson ministers in Brazil, plus 7 more stories

Emerson Manning — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000

During the week of Feb. 16-22, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, shared an Easter message in a recent video. Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke to members in Brazil about missionary work as part of his recent ministry.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke in a devotional as part of his Mexico ministry. Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles attended the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square' first concert in Lima, Peru. Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke to youth in Caribbean during his eight-day ministry there and in Guatemala.

A date has been set for the groundbreaking of the Lethbridge Alberta Temple; The First Presidency has released the site and rendering of the Tuguegarao City Philippines Temple and the site for the Culiacán Mexico Temple temple.

Dr. Laura Padilla-Walker, dean of Family, Home and Social Sciences at Brigham Young University joins in a new episode of the Church News podcast. A Church News employee gives various insights on BYU’s Master of Laws program. Read about the Latter-day Saint pioneers in Chile.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. President Oaks invites learning, teaching the Savior’s Resurrection in year’s first Easter message

In a recent video, President Oaks teaches about the blessings that can come from a more focused and prolonged commemoration each year of the Savior’s Resurrection.

“Let us prepare for an Easter celebration of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, culminating in His Resurrection — the most glorious event in history,” President Oaks said in the video.

Watch President Oak’s video here.

Teaching children about Holy Week and Easter

What have Church leaders said about Easter?

2. Ministering in Brazil, Elder Stevenson teaches 5 ways to become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ in preparation for a mission

During a devotional to members in Brazil, Elder Stevenson recounted his own experience with missionary work and emphasized its immeasurable importance of missionary work.

“Missionary work is so important in this dispensation,” he said at the devotional. “This is how people know us. They know us by the sight of missionaries walking on the street.”

3. Elder Gong teaches in Mexico: ‘The holy house of the Lord invites and proclaims holiness to the Lord’

Elder Gong shared a message of invitation, hope and encouragement to members in Mexico —inviting them to embrace the blessings of the temple and live their faith in ways that bless their lives and the lives of others.

“The holy house of the Lord invites and proclaims holiness to the Lord,” said Elder Gong. Temples are not merely physical buildings; they are places of spiritual refuge, peace and divine connection, he continued.

4. Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra perform 1st concert in Peru

At the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra’s first concert of its Peru tour, “Songs of Hope”, Elder Soares invited all to feel God’s love through music.

Elder Soares said in an interview on Thursday, Feb. 20, that “it was a beautiful experience. The sacred hymns are are always inspirational and help us to draw ourselves closer to Jesus Christ.”

5. Knowing one’s divine identity can be a source of strength, Elder Kearon tells Caribbean youth

After reflecting on his own life experiences, Elder Kearon spoke to members around the Caribbean on the importance of knowing they are children of God.

“I wished I knew then what I know now — that I am a child of God. It would have made such a difference in my life." He continued: “You are not alone, because you are a child of God,” he said.

6. Temple News: Groundbreaking date set for Lethbridge Alberta Temple; rendering and site announced for Philippines temple, plus site for Mexico temple

The First Presidency has set a date in April for the groundbreaking ceremony with Elder Randall K. Bennett, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Church’s North America Central Area, to preside.

In addition to the site location for the the Tuguegarao City temple, an exterior rendering has also been released. The Culiacán Mexico Temple was one of 13 temple locations President Nelson announced Oct. 3, 2021, at the conclusion of October 2021 general conference — and will be the 17th temple in Mexico.

7. Episode 228: BYU’s Laura Padilla-Walker on the power of service on teen flourishing

Padilla-Walker has pondered this question in her research as she focuses on parenting and media influences during adolescence and young adulthood.

In this new episode, she shares how to help parents and leaders discover how positive behaviors can both replace and protect against negative behaviors and how sacred living strategies can help families stay stronger and happier.

Listen to this week’s podcast episode here.

‘Service changed my life’: The protective factor of service in combating feelings of depression and anxiety

Teenagers give advice on how to start a JustServe school club

8. How BYU’s Master of Laws program is blessing individuals, communities, the Church and nations

Christina Ortega, who earned her degree as part of BYU’s Master of Laws program, shares the blessings she received thanks to the program.

“I’ve come to understand that when you do what you can, God really takes care of the rest, and it is way better than anything you ever imagined,” said Ortega.

9. Pioneers of Chile: Early Latter-day Saints tell stories of faith and reflect on Church growth over decades

This year marks 100 years since Elder Melvin J. Ballard, an early 20th-century Apostle, offered a prayer in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in late 1925, dedicating South America for the preaching of the gospel — today in Chile, there are more than 607,000 Latter-day Saints attending over 570 congregations, with 11 missions and six temples in operation, announced or under construction.

Read a second story about early Chilean Latter-day Saints here.

Read about an FSY conference in Chile.

Builders and blessings: How early Latter-day Saint pioneers shaped the growth of the Church in Chile

How FSY is blessing the youth and strengthening the Church in Chile

See the Church News week in review each Sunday

Elder Gong teaches in Mexico: ‘The holy house of the Lord invites and proclaims holiness to the Lord’

Emerson Manning — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:23:56 +0000

During a devotional titled “The House of the Lord,” broadcast Sunday, Feb. 9, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Susan Gong, spoke to Church members in Mexico.

The gathering of members, leaders and new converts reflected the diversity and strength of the Church community.

Elder and Sister Gong were accompanied by Elder Marcus B. Nash of the Presidency of the Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his wife, Sister Shelley Nash; Elder Hugo Montoya, president of the Mexico Area, and his wife, Sister Carmen Montoya; Elder Sean Douglas, first counselor in the Mexico Area presidency; and Elder Moisés Villanueva, second counselor in the Mexico Area presidency.

The devotional was one of several meetings Elder Gong presided at during a ministry in Mexico in February.

Connection in the temple

After Sister Gong spoke on the power and importance of temple covenants in the life of a believer, Elder Gong shared a message on the importance of temples in the lives of members — emphasizing the role of the temple in strengthening faith, fostering holiness and drawing individuals closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

The temple makes “everyday life sacred, brings us closer to the Lord and to each other and makes us happier,” he continued.

The invitation to attend the temple is an invitation to walk more closely with God, to be blessed by His presence and to receive the strength needed to face the challenges of life.

“To walk with the Lord, we must become holy as He is holy,” said Elder Gong, emphasizing the importance of the temple in helping individuals become more like Christ.

Holiness is a call to action in one’s daily life, not an abstract concept. It is about finding ways to bring sacredness into all aspects of one’s existence and recognizing the mercies of God, even amid life’s challenges.

This holiness is not limited to the temple but extends into one’s daily actions, relationships and efforts to be more Christlike, he said.

Knowing one’s divine identity can be a source of strength, Elder Kearon tells Caribbean youth

Blessings of the temple

Elder Gong reflected on an experience he had at a young age while being sealed to his parents in the temple.

Highlighting the profound impact temple worship can have even from an early age, Elder Gong created the image of the “beautiful bright light” and the feeling of “love and kindness” within the temple that resonated deeply in his mind — reminding the congregation that the temple is a place where worshippers can feel the love of God and experience His peace.

Elder Gong also invited bishops and stake presidents to encourage new converts to prepare for temple attendance by obtaining limited-use temple recommends and preparing the names of their ancestors to take to the temple for proxy ordinances.

This connection with one’s heritage and the fulfillment of sacred covenants has the power to bless individuals and families for generations to come.

“The Lord is attentive. ... He desires to encourage and strengthen each one of us in His time and in His own way,” said Elder Gong as he urged new converts to prepare themselves spiritually for temple service, emphasizing the blessings it will bring.

Join the ‘spiritual aristocracy’ of ancestors, Elder Christofferson tells BYU–Hawaii students

The miracles of temples

During the devotional, Elder Gong highlighted three miracles occurring in Mexico: the growing number of temples, the significance of temples drawing Latter-day Saints to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and the blessing of eternal families.

The expansion of temples, such as the announcement of new temples in Mexico, is seen as a blessing that allows more individuals to draw nearer to God through the covenants and ordinances of the temple.

“The holy house of the Lord helps our families to be happy and eternal through Jesus Christ and His Atonement,” Elder Gong affirmed. Families are central to the gospel, and the temple plays a crucial role in uniting families for eternity.

Elder Gong ended with an invitation to walk in holiness, to strengthen families and to deepen one’s relationship with God.

The temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of hope, where one can find strength, guidance and the promise of eternal life.

“I know He lives,” Elder Gong testified. “Nothing is impossible with God. Have faith, be humble and diligent, and all things will work together for your good, in His time and way.”

President Nelson announces Salt Lake Temple open house

How a stake in Oregon is finding opportunities to share God’s light

Emerson Manning — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 21:00:00 +0000

For members of the Cedar Mill Oregon Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, service is something everyone can be a part of.

Youth and adults come together throughout the year for various service projects that benefit not only the unity of their stake but also those in their community.

Every year, a youth day of service is meticulously planned and centered on an organization in need — as well as the needs of the youth.

Stake Young Women President Monica Carlson explained that the activities planned are to strengthen relationships of the youth, allowing them to be a part of a “bonding experience.”

Emily Bell, the Cedar Mill Oregon Stake’s JustServe coordinator, said these activities require “a significant amount of effort.”

She explained that a communications council meets three to six months in advance to plan service projects that will benefit the stake and their community.

A place to serve

The 2024 youth day of service on April 13, 2024, was attended by over 200 youth.

The youth decided to aid people with food insecurities by preparing and packing over 1,000 bagged lunches filled with sandwiches prepared by the youth, granola bars and clementines.

Divided into stations, the youth used their talents where best suited. For some, that was preparing the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches; for others, it was using their artistic skills and decorating the brown paper bags and filling them with thoughtful, handwritten notes.

The notes were written with messages of courage, love and hope — some were also written for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Some included scriptures, some with beautifully drawn images.

No matter the skill level, every youth was utilized in the process. Everyone had a place to serve.

The lunches were assembled and donated to the Blanchet House, an organization based in Portland, Oregon, that provides food and hospitality to those in need.

The youth didn’t just stop there. In addition to the lunches, glasses were collected and donated to the Lions Club International to be filled with prescriptions for those in need. Shoes were also given to the Soles4Souls organization. Personalized cards were written and decorated to be given to the Honoring our Precious Elders organization.

This activity continues to bring together the youth of the stake, as they find a purpose in serving, and work together to make a positive impact on their community.

“One of the beautiful things about doing service projects, is it takes you outside of your everyday life,” said Carlson. “It makes you look at your life from a different perspective.”

Finding a purpose in serving

On Nov. 23, 2024, around 250 youth and adults from the stake came together in collaboration with the Portland rescue team.

After being a served a pancake breakfast by their stake presidency, everyone got to work assembling non-perishable kits, which included:

An uplifting message
A granola bar
Band-Aids
A toothbrush and toothpaste
Various hygiene items
Four pairs of socks
A comb
Lip balm

By the end of the service project, 200 kits were made and 900 pairs of socks had been donated. What was left over from the sock drive was donated to Project Homeless Connect.

Bell shared that these activities have united youth and stake members as they’ve found their purpose in serving God and others around them.

The Cedar Mill Oregon Stake members are anticipating another day of service this coming April that will also be in collaboration with those of other faiths.

Carlson shared that these youth are taking on the invitation from President Nelson to "Gather Israel“ — inviting friends not of their faith to brighten the day of those in need. “President Nelson said it right when he said they’re extraordinarily gifted at gathering.”

Days of service in Texas, Utah, Oregon grow awareness of JustServe, bless communities

God’s light and love

Throughout the planning processes of these service projects, Bell explained, it has been a testament to her of Heavenly Father love. “It’s given me a sense of care,” testified Bell, who explained that God’s care for His children has become evident as she’s seen the stake presidency members be inspired to find who needs God’s light and love.

As these service projects have built community ties and relationships, they have helped members of the Cedar Mill Oregon Stake find a purpose in loving and serving others around them.

Carlson added: “You don’t know who these [donations] are going to, or if they’re religious, if they’re Christian. You know, we have no idea, but I do know that such things are meaningful across those boundaries of religion and life — to see people expressing their faith through love is really meaningful."

‘At our very, very best’: Thousands of volunteers help with National Day of Service projects across the country

A thousand hands; a million meals

Primaries worldwide invited to organize service activities beginning in 2025

In case you missed it: Elder Uchtdorf counsels young adults in worldwide devotional, Elder Cook speaks at MTC devotional, plus 8 more stories

Emerson Manning — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000

During the week of Feb. 2-8, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Harriet Uchtdorf, gave counsel during a Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults on Sunday, Feb. 2.

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Mary Cook, spoke at a Tuesday night, Feb. 4, devotional at the Provo Missionary Training Center. Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints spoke during the International Religious Freedom Summit opening reception in Washington, D.C., on Monday, Feb. 3.

This week’s Church News video highlights Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson, who was honored at the 2025 Sundance Institute Women’s Leadership Celebration, presented by Zions Bank, with the Global Service Leadership award. The Young Women general presidency discussed the “For the Strength of Youth Guide” in a live video on the Young Women Worldwide accounts.

In this week’s episode of the Church News podcast, Sunday School General President Paul V. Johnson and his first counselor, Brother Chad H Webb, and second counselor, Brother Gabriel W. Reid, introduce themselves as well discuss what they hope Latter-day Saints will learn from this year’s “Come, Follow Me” curriculum and the Doctrine and Covenants.

The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the groundbreaking date of the Antananarivo Madagascar Temple as well as the site location of the Florianópolis Brazil Temple.

Elder Kevin R. Duncan, a General Authority Seventy, spoke to Brigham Young University students on Tuesday, Feb. 4. Elder S. Mark Palmer of the Presidency of the Seventy spoke to students during a BYU–Pathway devotional on Friday, Feb. 7.

BYU–Idaho President Alvin F. Meredith III and his wife, Sister Jennifer Meredith, shared their thoughts and perspective about education. RootsTech announced three more virtual keynote speakers for the March 6 event.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Worldwide devotional: Elder Uchtdorf counsels young adults on making decisions with God’s help

Elder Uchtdorf counseled young adults worldwide during a devotional on Feb. 2 on making decisions with God’s help and assured that heavenly answers are worth the wait.

“You may not see it until much later, but you will look back and know that the Lord never abandoned you, even when He let you make a lot of decisions for yourself,” he said. “Following in His path, following in His way, you will see that the dots do connect.”

2. Elder Cook outlines ‘4 loves of missionary work’ in MTC devotional

Elder Cook underscored “the four loves of missionary work” that missionaries should develop and magnify during the devotional at the Provo Missionary Training Center on Feb. 4.

The four — loving one’s companions, loving the people, loving the mission leaders and loving the Lord — are “four broad relationships that I believe should be of particular importance to you as you are commencing your sacred service as emissaries of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he said.

3. Elder Soares makes the case for compassion at International Religious Freedom Summit in Washington, D.C.

In his remarks on the importance of religious freedom in building peaceful societies, Elder Soares said peace requires dialogue and action to protect it and spread it throughout society.

He said: “Protecting human rights is crucial for preserving peace. … As religious, government and community leaders, it is our responsibility to strongly support the protection of human rights worldwide.”

4. Video: Relief Society leader honored for group’s work in ‘Blessing Women and Children’

In a new Church News video titled “Blessing Women and Children,” President Johnson talks about some of the ways she has seen communities blessed by the work done to help women and children in different parts of the world.

Watch the video here.

President Camille N. Johnson honored with Sundance leadership award for global service

25 ways to participate in the Church’s global initiative for women and children

5. ‘Do your best’ when working to make inspired choices, says Young Women general presidency

Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman and her counselors, Sister Tamara W. Runia and Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus discussed chapter 1 of the “For the Strength of Youth” guide during a live video on the Young Women Worldwide Instagram account and Facebook page on Tuesday, Feb. 4.

Making inspired choices is not about getting a “yes” or “no” about every possible decision; it is about living in a higher and holier way — the Lord’s way. It is also about “doing your best,” explained the Young Women general presidency.

6. Episode 226: The Sunday School general presidency on studying the ongoing Restoration with ‘Come, Follow Me’ in 2025

The Sunday School general presidency join this week’s podcast episode to introduce themselves as well as share how studying the ongoing Restoration can help shape stronger testimonies of Jesus Christ and His restored gospel.

They discuss what they hope Latter-day Saints will learn from this year’s “Come, Follow Me” curriculum and the Doctrine and Covenants.

Listen to this week’s podcast episode here.

Sunday School general presidency launches worldwide social media accounts

Listen to more episodes of the Church News podcast

7. Temple news: Groundbreaking date set for Antananarivo Madagascar Temple, plus the First Presidency releases site for Florianópolis Brazil Temple

On Monday, Feb. 3, the First Presidency announced the groundbreaking of the Antananarivo Madagascar Temple will be on Saturday, March 15. The First Presidency also released the site location of the Florianópolis Brazil Temple on Monday, Feb. 3.

8. Elder Duncan speaks at BYU devotional, Elder Palmer speaks at BYU–Pathway devotional

Speaking in the Marriott Center on Brigham Young University’s campus during the weekly campus devotional, Elder Duncan shared his personal witness that the Savior’s power and love can overcome any challenge in this world. “As you prepare for miracles that will surely come, and at the same time face challenges that will test you to the very core, the power of Jesus Christ will sustain you as you steadfastly put your trust in Him,” he said.

To BYU–Pathway Worldwide students, Elder Palmer relayed the words of Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who taught that self-reliance is not an end goal but a means to an end. To that, Elder Palmer added: “We seek to become self-reliant so we can serve others. This is captured so well in the motto of BYU in Provo, ‘Enter to learn, go forth to serve.’”

9. 3 lessons from President and Sister Meredith since taking the helm of BYU–Idaho

A year and a half after their surprise call to Rexburg, President and Sister Meredith shared their thoughts and perspective about education, the mission of BYU–Idaho and three lessons they’ve learned over the past year and a half.

10. RootsTech 2025 announces 3 virtual keynotes sessions

RootsTech has announced three virtual keynote speakers for its 2025 conference, adding to a lineup that features four other keynote speakers.

The virtual keynote messages will be available to view on March 6, 2025, at RootsTech.org, according to a Jan. 16 news release.

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Elder Ronald A. Rasband: ‘Behold I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up’

Emerson Manning — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Editor’s note: To support elders quorum and Relief Society classes, the Church News is publishing lesson resources on messages from October 2024 general conference. These are meant to be a starting point and not a lesson plan.

Read more conference lesson aids here

About this talk

“Behold I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up”
by Elder Ronald A. Rasband | Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Sunday afternoon session of October 2024 general conference.
Theme: Those who “hold up” and sustain the Prophet and other leaders hold up the Lord’s light.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Elder Rasband’s message here.

Outline

Jesus Christ made it possible for God’s children, if they are worthy, to return to Heavenly Father’s presence and be with their families for eternity. The Savior is not absent from one’s mortal journeys. His pure love and mercy are evident when children of God sustain one another in His work.
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Latter-day Saints “sustain,” or “hold up,” general Church leaders. They also hold up local leaders, family members and neighbors, offering to be a strength at their side.
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The concept of “hold up” is rooted in scripture. At the Waters of Mormon, newly baptized members committed to bear one another’s burdens, comfort each other and stand as a witness of God (see Mosiah 18:8-9). The Lord has asks His followers to hold up their light by holding fast to their covenants.
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President Russell M. Nelson has said that sustaining prophets is a personal commitment. To hold up the Prophet is sacred work. Although King Benjamin from the Book of Mormon was subject to many infirmities in body and mind, he was preserved and strengthened by the Lord.
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Just like King Benjamin, President Nelson — now at age 100 — has been kept and preserved by the Lord. Safety relies on following the guidance of those whom the Lord has chosen to lead His Church. The Lord has selected individuals to preside over His Church, and He will make no mistake.
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President Nelson’s maturity, wide-ranging experience, wisdom and consistent receipt of revelation is specifically suited for today. There needs to be more lifting and less murmuring, more upholding the word of the Lord, His ways and His Prophet.
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In his rededicatory prayer on the Manti Utah Temple, President Nelson petitioned the Lord that His holy house would essentially hold up all who entered, that they would receive sacred blessings.
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Before the rededication, President Nelson and Elder Rasband reflected on their ancestors who settled in the valley surrounding the temple. As he and others stood with President Nelson, they had the opportunity to hold up and support the Prophet of God.
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On the day of rededication, President Nelson said that temples are built to honor the Lord and for worship — not for show.
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President Nelson has taught that service in the temple changes lives. The Savior and His doctrine are the very heart of the temple. Those who worship in the temple will have the power of God and angels.
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Angels reaching out to “hold us up” is described in the scriptures when Jesus Christ knelt humbly in the Garden of Gethsemane. By His suffering He provided an infinite Atonement. As the Lord suffered and asked for the cup to be removed from Him, angels appeared round about Him to strengthen Him.
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There are angels on the earth today. The temple teaches how to part the veil between heaven and earth, and how to ask for strength from God’s angels. Angels bring God’s light.
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Elder Rasband says how blessed he and members and friends of the Lord’s Church are in holding up President Nelson’s teachings and Christlike example. Jesus Christ is the Light of the World, and disciples hold up His light.
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Discussion questions

What does it mean to “hold up” the Lord’s light? How can we do this in our daily lives?

How can we actively sustain local and general Church leaders?

How can personal revelation “counter the fear, darkness and contention” of the world? What are some ways to seek personal revelation effectively?

How can our service and worship in temples enhance our personal spiritual journeys?

When has following the teachings of the Prophet or other Church leaders impacted your life? How did it change your perspective or actions?

Notable quotes

“When we hold up one another, we are saying, ‘I am here for you, not just to hold up your arms and hands when they hang down but to be a comfort and strength at your side.’”
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“We hold up the Lord’s light when we hold fast to our covenants and when we support our dear living Prophet as he speaks the words of God.”
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“To hold up the Prophet is a sacred work. We do not sit quietly by but actively defend him, follow his counsel, teach his words and pray for him.”
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Key scriptures

“My God hath been my support; he hath led me through mine afflictions in the wilderness; and he hath preserved me upon the waters of the great deep. He hath filled me with his love, even unto the consuming of my flesh.”
- 2 Nephi 4:20-21
“Wherefore, be faithful; stand in the office which I have appointed unto you; succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 81:5
“Therefore, hold up your light that it may shine unto the world. Behold I am the light which ye shall hold up—that which ye have seen me do. Behold ye see that I have prayed unto the Father, and ye all have witnessed.”
- 3 Nephi 18:24

Invitations and promises

“The Savior is not absent from our mortal journeys. For the past two days we have heard Him speak through His chosen leaders that we might draw closer to Him. Time and again, with His pure love and mercy, He sustains us as we face the drama of life. Nephi describes: ‘My God hath been my support; he hath led me though mine afflictions. ... He hath filled me with his love’ (2 Nephi 4:20-21). That love is evident when we sustain one another in His work.”
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“Brothers and sisters, we need to do more lifting and less murmuring, more upholding the word of the Lord, His ways and His Prophet, who has said: ‘One of our greatest challenges today is distinguishing between the truths of God and the counterfeits of Satan. That is why the Lord warned us to “pray always, ... that [we] may conquer Satan, and ... escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold [the adversary’s] work” (Doctrine and Covenants 10:5).’”
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“We all need to be lifted up by the Lord with peace, with comfort and most of all with personal revelation to counter the fear, darkness and contention encompassing the world.”
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Stories

Elder Rasband shared his experience joining President Russell M. Nelson and Sister Wendy Nelson at the rededication of the Manti Utah Temple in April 2024. President Nelson’s unexpected presence brought profound joy and light, highlighting his prophetic influence. In his rededicatory prayer, said Elder Rasband, “President Nelson petitioned the Lord that His holy house would essentially ‘hold up’ all who entered the temple.” Standing with President Nelson was a momentous experience for Elder Rasband, as it reaffirmed his testimony that temples honor the Lord and gave him the opportunity to “hold up” and support the Prophet of God.
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As told in the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin — who suffered many infirmities, both in body and mind — told his people that he was chosen by the Lord to lead them and was given strength to do so. President Nelson has similarly been preserved at this time to lead and guide the world through the latter days.
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As Jesus Christ knelt humbly in the Garden of Gethsemane, His suffering became part of His infinite Atonement. The Lord suffered pain for all, that they might come to repent; this is described as the greatest single act of love in all history. When Christ asked that the cup be removed from Him, angels appeared from heaven to strengthen Him. “We have angels round about us today.”
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Notable footnotes

16. In the Book of Mormon, the prophet Mormon tried to comfort his son Moroni in a letter when Moroni was alone and hunted by enemies. He wrote, “May Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death ... rest in your mind forever” (Moroni 9:25).
17. Before the dedication of the Manti Utah Temple in 1888, two other temples in Utah had already been dedicated: the St. George Utah Temple in 1877 and the Logan Utah Temple in 1884. The first temple of the Restoration was built in Kirtland, Ohio, and dedicated in 1836. Great spiritual manifestations accompanied the services, and priesthood keys were restored by Moses, Elias and Elijah so that temple work and the gathering of Israel could begin in earnest.

Additional resources

Related image: “One Before God” by Joseph Brickey
Related video: “Follow the Prophet”
Related hymn: No. 19, “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet”

Recent conference talks on sustaining Church leaders

Elder Kyle S. McKay: “The Man Who Communed With Jehovah” (October 2024)
Elder Allen D. Haynie: “A Living Prophet for the Latter Days” (April 2023)
Then-Elder Russell M. Nelson: “Sustaining the Prophets” (October 2014)

Who is Elder Rasband?

Elder Ronald A. Rasband was sustained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on Oct. 3, 2015. Between his call as a General Authority Seventy in 2000 and serving in the Presidency of the Seventy in 2005, he served in the Temple Department first as an assistant executive director and then as executive director in 2004 — a position no other living prophet or apostle has held.

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Elder Takashi Wada: ‘The Words of Christ and the Holy Ghost Will Lead Us to the Truth’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from October 2024 general conference

October 2024 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, photos, session highlights

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Brother Bradley R. Wilcox: ‘O Youth of the Noble Birthright’

Emerson Manning — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 14:06:37 +0000

Read more conference lesson aids here

About this talk

“O Youth of the Noble Birthright”
by Brother Bradley R. Wilcox | First counselor in the Young Men general presidency
Sunday morning session of October 2024 general conference.
Theme: Children of the covenant have a birthright responsibility to bring God’s children safely home to Him.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Brother Wilcox’s message here.

Outline

Brother Wilcox often hears one question among young people that he wished to address: “Why? Why must Latter-day Saints live so differently from others?” He acknowledged how hard it is to be different in today’s digital world.
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Many responses could answer the question of why, like being children of God. But as everyone are children of God, there is more that sets members of the Church apart.
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Brother Wilcox expounded on the address “Thanks for the Covenant,” given by then-Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. In the address, he explains that those who make and keep sacred covenants become heirs of the everlasting covenants or, in other words — a birthright.
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In Old Testament times, if a father passed away, his birthright son was responsible for the care of his mother and sisters, and he was given an inheritance because of his added responsibilities. Today, covenant-keepers receive an inheritance as joint heirs with Christ because of the covenant relationship they have chosen to enter with Him and their Father in Heaven.
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This birthright does not mean one is better than another, but rather that covenant-keepers are chosen and that God’s love and trust are evident. To explain the difference between being loved and being trusted, Brother Wilcox shared an excerpt from the “For the Strength of Youth” guide.
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Brother Wilcox compared the mortal journey in which God sends His children to a voyage, filled with various opportunities to grow. Because of the trust He has in each of His children, He invites everyone to be a member of His crew.
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Covenant-keepers may see others wasting time on worldly things. But rather than wondering why they must refrain from those activities, they can remember they are no ordinary passengers; they are members of the crew. God’s desire is to help His crew become all that He is, as their commitments demand more of them because that is how God is making more of them.
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The covenant relationship with those of the noble birthright is a connection of love and trust with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. When Saints fulfill their end of this covenant, they are promised never to be left alone and are given strength through the grace of Christ.
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“Redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah” (2 Nephi 2:6). Youth of the noble birthright can remember their role and not trade everything for nothing or let the world change them when they were born to change the world.
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Discussion questions

What steps can you take this week to honor your “noble birthright”?

How can we overcome the temptations and distractions we face today?

What are some ways we can strengthen our faith during times of personal challenges or doubts?

How can we better help the rising generation understand their divine heritage in today’s world?

What “birthright responsibilities” might we have, and how can we fulfill them?

Notable quotes

“When we use our moral agency to make and keep covenants with God, we become heirs of the everlasting covenant God has made with our forebearers in every dispensation. Said another way, we become ‘children of the covenant’ (3 Nephi 20:26). That sets us apart. That gives us access to the same blessings our forefathers and foremothers received, including a birthright.”
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“Your covenant relationship with God and Jesus Christ is a relationship of love and trust in which you have access to a greater measure of Their grace — Their divine assistance, endowment of strength and enabling power. That power is not just wishful thinking, a lucky charm or self-fulfilling prophecy. It is real.”
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“I testify that you are loved — and you are trusted — today, in 20 years and forever. Don’t sell your birthright for a mess of pottage. Don’t trade everything for nothing. Don’t let the world change you when you were born to change the world.”
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Key scriptures

“The Father having raised me up unto you first, and sent me to bless you in turning away every one of you from his iniquities; and this because ye are the children of the covenant.”
- 3 Nephi 20:26
“Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth.”
- 2 Nephi 2:6
“And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”
- Romans 8:17

Invitations and promises

“When we use our moral agency to make and keep covenants with God, we become heirs of the everlasting covenant God has made with our forebearers in every dispensation. Said another way, we become ‘children of the covenant’ (3 Nephi 20:26).”
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“As you fulfill your birthright responsibilities, you are never alone. The Lord of the vineyard labors with you. You are working hand in hand with Jesus Christ.”
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“With each new covenant — and as your relationship with Him deepens — you hold each other tighter and tighter until you are firmly clasped together.”
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Stories

Brother Wilcox compares the mortal experience to a cruise ship journey organized by God, where His children have the opportunity to grow and progress amid various challenges. God invites those willing to make and keep covenants to become members of His crew, entrusting them with the important work of helping all His children safely return to Him. As crew members, they hold unique responsibilities and receive spiritual compensation, including greater happiness, peace and confidence. This journey and role help them become more like God, reflecting His desire for their development rather than merely providing material rewards.
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In Old Testament times, the birthright son had the added responsibility of caring for his mother and sisters after the father’s death, which required him to remain with the family’s estate and provided him with a larger portion of the inheritance. This practice illustrated a principle of leadership and service rewarded with greater blessings. Today, this concept parallels the spiritual inheritance received as a joint heir with Christ, through a covenant with God, requiring a commitment to live and serve differently. Accepting these responsibilities is not burdensome when considering the temporal and spiritual blessings granted through this covenant relationship.
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Notable footnotes

9. The Lord said, “It is a light thing” (1 Nephi 21:6).
11. The Lord said, “Thou art my servant, O Israel” (1 Nephi 21:3).
25. I used to be confused by the many descriptions of God’s power found throughout the scriptures. They speak of grace as enabling power (see Philippians 4:13) but also the Light of Christ as power (see Doctrine and Covenant 88:13). We read of the power of faith (see Alma 18:35), the power of the Holy Ghost (see Moroni 10:7) and power from on high promised in temples (see Doctrine and Covenants 38:32; 105:11). Scriptures also teach of the power of the priesthood (see Doctrine and Covenants 113:8). I couldn’t figure out where one ended and the others began. Finally, I realized that “there is no other power, save the power of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 8:7; see also Romans 13:1). Different labels for God’s power do not describe different powers but varying amounts, uses and aspects of the same power.

Additional resources

Related image: “Israel Blesses Ephraim With Birthright” by D. Keith Larson
Related video: “Your Potential, Your Privileges”
Related hymn: No. 255, “Carry On”

Recent conference talks on covenant responsibilities

President Emily Belle Freeman: “Live Up to Your Privileges” (October 2024)
President Russell M. Nelson: “Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys” (April 2024)
President Dallin H. Oaks: “Covenants and Responsibilities” (April 2024)

Who is Brother Wilcox?

Brother Bradley R. Wilcox was sustained as the first counselor in the Young Men general presidency on April 1, 2023, and as second counselor on April 4, 2020. He is a professor in Brigham Young University’s Department of Ancient Scripture and a popular speaker and author.

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Elder Gary E. Stevenson: ‘Days Never To Be Forgotten’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from October 2024 general conference

October 2024 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, photos, session highlights

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Elder Kyle S. McKay: ‘The Man Who Communed With Jehovah’

Emerson Manning — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Read more conference lesson aids here

About this talk

“The Man Who Communed With Jehovah”
by Elder Kyle S. McKay | General Authority Seventy
Saturday evening session of October 2024 general conference.
Theme: Joseph Smith was and is a Prophet of God, “blessed to open the last dispensation.”

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Elder McKay’s message here.

Outline

Elder McKay’s purpose in his message is to testify of Jesus Christ and share the knowledge he has learned from one key Apostle and Prophet.
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The beginning of wisdom

When young Joseph Smith entered the Sacred Grove to ask in prayer for forgiveness and which church he should join, he encountered the devil and the Father and the Son, each having interest in the boy and his prayer. This historical event both offered preparatory experience and started “the Restoration of all things in this last dispensation.”
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Perhaps Joseph’s main takeaway from the First Vision was simply, “I had found the testimony of James to be true — that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God and obtain” (Joseph Smith—History 1:26).
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Regular repentance

His First Vision gave Joseph Smith the confidence that heaven would respond again. His prayers led to heavenly instruction in later years, such as from the angel Moroni in 1823 and in the Kirtland Temple in 1836.
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Following the Savior’s visit in the Kirtland Temple, Joseph and Oliver Cowdery would continue to sin, but in that moment, Jesus made them sinless. Joseph’s life of regular repentance gives Elder McKay the confidence to “come boldly unto the throne of grace, that [I] may obtain mercy” (Hebrews 4:16).
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Inquiring of the Lord

As part of the promised “restitution of all things” (Acts 3:21), the Lord, through Joseph Smith, brought forth the Book of Mormon and other revelations that contain the fullness of His gospel, like about the nature of God and the Savior’s Atonement.
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Rolling on this kingdom

In 1842, Joseph wrote declaring that in the latter days, “the heavenly Priesthood will unite with the earthly, to bring about those great purposes.” To his friend Benjamin Johnson, Joseph said, “Benjamin, [if I die] I [would] not be far away from you, and if on the other side of the veil, I [would] still be working with you, and with a power greatly increased, to roll on this kingdom.”
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On June 27, 1844, Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were murdered. But Joseph’s testimony continues to reverberate around the world: “I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it” (Joseph Smith—History 1:25).
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What was said of John the Baptist might also be said of Joseph Smith: “He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.” Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living and loving Father in Heaven.
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Joseph Smith was and is a Prophet of God, “blessed to open the last dispensation.” The Lord commanded Oliver and all believers to “stand by my servant Joseph, faithfully” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:18). Elder McKay raised his voice in “praise to the man who communed with Jehovah” and, above all, praise to Jehovah, who communed with that man.
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Discussion questions

How does Joseph Smith’s First Vision encourage us today to approach God in times of need?

How does Joseph Smith’s example of regular repentance provide a model for our lives?

Elder McKay discusses several profound truths restored through Joseph Smith, such as about the nature of God and the Atonement of Christ. How do restored truths enhance our understanding of the gospel, and what impact do they have on our spiritual practices?

In what ways can repentance strengthen our relationship with Heavenly Father?

How has Joseph Smith’s efforts “to roll forth the kingdom of God” inspired you to engage in this work?

Notable quotes

“What we now call the First Vision marked the beginning of the restoration of all things in this last dispensation. But for Joseph, the experience was also personal and preparatory.”
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“Joseph’s life of regular repentance gives me confidence to ‘come boldly unto the throne of grace, that [I] may obtain mercy’ (Hebrews 4:16).”
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“I testify that Joseph Smith was and is a Prophet of God, a witness and servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was ‘blessed to open the last dispensation,’ and we are blessed that he did.”
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Key scriptures

“For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.”
- 2 Nephi 25:23
“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”
- Hebrews 4:16
“Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink.”
- Doctrine and Covenants 19:18

Invitations and promises

“Joseph’s experience in the grove gave him confidence to ask for forgiveness and direction for the rest of his life. His experience has also given me confidence to ask for forgiveness and direction for the rest of my life.”
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“Joseph’s life of regular repentance gives me confidence to ‘come boldly unto the throne of grace, that [I] may obtain mercy’ (Hebrews 4:16). I have learned that Jesus Christ truly is ‘of a forgiving disposition’ It is neither His mission nor His nature to condemn. He came to save.”
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“As we come unto Christ, He will not only forgive our sins, but He will also change our very nature so ‘that we have no more disposition to do evil’ (Mosiah 5:2).”
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Stories

In the spring of 1820, 14-year-old Joseph Smith entered a grove of trees to pray about his sins and to ask which church to join. The answer to his sincere prayer, now called the First Vision, marked the beginning of the Restoration of all things in this last dispensation. This experience was both directive — “Join none of [the churches]” — and redemptive — “Thy sins are forgiven thee.”
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In 1836, Joseph and Oliver Cowdery prayed in the newly dedicated Kirtland Temple, likely including a plea for forgiveness. As they arose, the Savior appeared and declared, “Behold, your sins are forgiven you; you are clean before me.” Joseph and Oliver would sin again, but in that moment, in response to their plea and in preparation for the restoration of priesthood keys, Jesus made them sinless.
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In 1842, Joseph wrote that during these latter days, “the heavenly Priesthood will unite with the earthly, to bring about those great purposes; and whilst we are thus united in the one common cause, to roll forth the kingdom of God, the heavenly Priesthood are not idle spectators.” To his friend Benjamin Johnson, Joseph said, “Benjamin, [if I die] I [would] not be far away from you, and if on the other side of the veil, I [would] still be working with you, and with a power greatly increased, to roll on this kingdom.”
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Additional resources

Related image: “The First Vision” by Del Parson
Related video: “Ask of God: Joseph Smith’s First Vision”
Related hymn: No. 27, “Praise to the Man”

Recent conference talks on Joseph Smith

President Russell M. Nelson: “Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys” (April 2024)
President M. Russell Ballard: “Praise to the Man” (October 2023)
Elder Carl B. Cook: “Just Keep Going — With Faith” (April 2023)

Who is Elder McKay?

Elder Kyle S. McKay was born in 1960 in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in the western U.S., where he loved riding horseback in the mountains. He worked in law until he was sustained as a General Authority Seventy in April 2018 general conference. In August 2022, he became the Church historian and recorder.

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Sister Kristin M. Yee: ‘The Joy of Our Redemption’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from October 2024 general conference

October 2024 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, photos, session highlights

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Sister Kristin M. Yee: ‘The Joy of Our Redemption’

Emerson Manning — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 20:04:07 +0000

Read more conference lesson aids here

About this talk

“The Joy of Our Redemption”
by Sister Kristin M. Yee | Second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency
Saturday evening session of October 2024 general conference.
Theme: The Savior helps all people repent and overcome weaknesses.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Sister Yee’s message here.

Outline

Sister Yee shared her story from when she painted a portrait of Jesus. She explained her self-doubt at the beginning of the process, but she put faith in the Lord to help her complete the painting. At the end of the project, she found herself frustrated with a mistake that helped her realize how the Lord will heal people from their mistakes if they are willing to let Him outstretch His hand.
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Repentance allows God’s children to feel His love, and it is a tool that can be used repeatedly. Repentance is a promised blessing through keeping one’s covenants. Christ’s redeeming power allows the return to both a loving Heavenly Father and loved ones.
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Through the atoning sacrifice Jesus Christ made, a life of immortality and eternal life is available to all who choose Him. The opportunity to truly repent and be forgiven is a miracle God provides to all of His children.
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The depths of divine forgiveness cannot be fathomed. There is nothing anyone can do to descend below the Master’s reach. Those who access His atoning power can overcome their weaknesses and sins and be brought to the light — if they are willing to choose and follow Him.
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Repentance requires work, sincerity of heart and humility. True repentance and change require being “convinced of our sins” (Alma 24:9), looking inside to see that which really needs healing and repair.
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“Let us not defend ourselves from the good that God desires to bless us with.” Those who bury their “weapons of war” (Alma 24:19) are laying down anything that would keep them from loving God with all their hearts and keeping all their covenants with Him.
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Those who live their covenants receive the Lord’s help to overcome weaknesses, including pride. The Prophet has taught that in the days ahead, people will need more than ever the power that comes from repentance and keeping covenants. Heavenly Father and the Savior know everyone’s hearts and care about what is important to them.
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All that has fallen can be redeemed through the Savior. Those with ongoing struggles can be patient with themselves and not give up. As they strive to seek help from leaders and go to the house of the Lord, they can receive the healing and forgiveness that is needed.
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Elder D. Todd Christofferson has taught that “the Lord smiles upon one who desires to come to judgment worthily.” Each day is a new opportunity to find the joy of being made whole and to feel God’s unfailing love.
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Heavenly Father and the Savior love everyone. Jesus Christ lives and broke the bands of sin and death. All are free to choose healing, redemption and eternal life with those they love.
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Discussion questions

What makes repentance a joyful act?

How can we apply Sister Yee’s experience with the painting to our own life challenges?

How can we better strengthen our covenant relationship with God?

What does it mean to you that the Savior is “mighty to save”?

How can repentance allow us to feel God’s love?

Notable quotes

“Repenting allows us to feel God’s love and to know and love Him in ways we would never otherwise know.”
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“Just as it required work and pleading for heaven’s help to repair the painting, it takes work, sincerity of heart and humility to bring ‘forth fruit meet for repentance’ (Alma 12:15).”
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“Like my painting, the Lord is not done with us when we make a mistake, nor does He flee when we falter.”
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Key scriptures

“Behold, I have come unto the world to bring redemption unto the world, to save the world from sin.”
- 3 Nephi 9:21
“Now have we not reason to rejoice? Yea, I say unto you, there never were men that had so great reason to rejoice as we, since the world began; yea, and my joy is carried away, even unto boasting in my God; for he has all power, all wisdom, and all understanding; he comprehendeth all things, and he is a merciful Being, even unto salvation, to those who will repent and believe on his name.”
- Alma 26:35
“... He has all power to save every man that believeth on his name and bringeth forth fruit meet for repentance.”
- Alma 12:15

Invitations and promises

“The redeeming power of Jesus Christ is one of the greatest promised blessings of our covenants. Ponder this as you participate in sacred ordinances. Without it, we could not return home to the presence of our Father in Heaven and those we love.”
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“As we live our covenants, the Lord can give us the help and power we need to both recognize and overcome our weaknesses, including the spiritual parasite of pride.”
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“If you are struggling with a situation you think you should have overcome by now, don’t give up. Be patient with yourself, keep your covenants, repent often, seek the help of your leaders if needed, and go to the house of the Lord as regularly as you can. Listen for and heed the promptings He sends you. He will not abandon His covenant relationship with you.”
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Stories

Sister Yee shares her experience painting a portrait of the Savior. She explains that the process was long and difficult, and at times she began to question her abilities. Toward the end of her project, she brushed varnish on the painting — but realized the painting was still wet. What was a beautiful portrait seemed to have been ruined in seconds. After receiving wise words and loving guidance from her mother, she continued. She pleaded with the Father in prayer, and after working through the night, she awoke to find the painting better than it was before. This experience gave the Lord an opportunity to extend His merciful hand and to show His love and power can save us from one’s own mistakes, weaknesses and sins.
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In Luke 7, a woman is looked down upon for her sins. She found Jesus in a Pharisee’s house and brought an alabaster box of ointment to anoint the feet of Jesus. As she anointed His feet, she wept and washed away the ointment with her hair. Although the Pharisee was astonished that Jesus would allow a sinner to touch Him, Jesus saw her act of love and sacrifice and forgave her of her sins. He said, “Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little” (Luke 7:47).
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In a book titled “The Magician’s Nephew” by C.S. Lewis, a young man finds himself in some trouble because of his own poor decisions. Sister Yee read a quote from Aslan, a leader character, who says, “Oh [humankind], how cleverly you defend yourselves [from] all that might do you good!” Sister Yee invited listeners to take upon themselves the blessings that come from God’s goodness and the healing that is available through a covenant relationship with Him.
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Notable footnotes

2. “Once we make a covenant with God, we leave neutral ground forever. God will not abandon His relationship with those who have forged such a bond with Him. In fact, all those who have made a covenant with God have access to a special kind of love and mercy. In the Hebrew language, that covenantal love is called hesed (חֶסֶד)” (President Russell M. Nelson, “The Everlasting Covenant,” October 2022).
7. Speaking of the sacrament, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Aposltes said: “As we prepare conscientiously and participate in this holy ordinance with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, then the promise is that we may always have the Spirit of the Lord to be with us. And by the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost as our constant companion, we can always retain a remission of our sins” (“Always Retain a Remission of Your Sins,” April 2016).
14. “I plead with you to come unto Him so that He can ... heal you from sin as you repent. He will heal you from sadness and fear. He will heal you from the wounds of this world” (President Russell M. Nelson, “The Answer Is Always Jesus Christ,” April 2023).

Additional resources

Related image: “And I Partook” by Sister Kristin M. Yee
Related video: “Repentance: A Joyful Choice”
Related hymn: No. 1009, “Gethsemane”

Recent conference talks on joy and hope

Elder Patrick Kearon: “Welcome to the Church of Joy” (October 2024)
Elder Gary E. Stevenson: “Days Never To Be Forgotten” (October 2024)
Elder Neil L. Andersen: “The Triumph of Hope” (October 2024)

Who is Sister Yee?

Sister Kristin M. Yee has served as second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency since Aug. 1, 2022. She earned degrees in fine arts from Brigham Young University–Idaho and Brigham Young University and a Master of Public Administration from BYU. Sister Yee has created many portraits of the Savior and was once an artist and producer for Disney.

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Elder Gerrit W. Gong: ‘Holiness to the Lord in Everyday Life’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from October 2024 general conference

October 2024 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, photos, session highlights

How members in Peru ‘reflect the Savior’s love and service’

Emerson Manning — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 22:02:26 +0000

This year, various members in Peru are following the Savior’s example of service. As they create opportunities to improve the quality of life in their communities — promoting unity and well-being for all — they are emulating the light and love of the Savior.

These service initiatives are a reminder that small acts of service can have a big impact, leaving traces of love and care in every corner where they are practiced.

Here is a look at recent service efforts.

The spirit of service

Organized in 1983, the Lima Perú San Felipe Stake became one of the pioneer stakes in North Lima. This year, members of the San Felipe stake celebrated the 41 years of volunteer service legacy implemented by their pioneer ancestors.

Over the years, members and volunteers have continually worked to bring their community together. Park clean-ups, blood donations and hospital support are just some of the many service efforts made by the 4,492 active volunteer members, according to the Church’s Peru Newsroom.

Pioneer members and families began their service initiative back in 1974, when they participated in the construction of the first stake known as the Lamanite Stake.

Showing their dedication to the gospel and their fellow man was a legacy passed on from generation to generation; and their desire to follow Christ’s example has been emulated by the current members of the Lima Perú San Felipe Stake.

In January, members of the stake participated in various service activities throughout the community as part of stake conference. These projects stand as a testament of the Savior’s teaching to love and serve others.

The members of the stake carry on the legacy of their pioneer ancestors by the continual commitment of serving their community — ultimately strengthening family and community bonds.

Church members’ service promotes social inclusion and accessibility in 2 South American countries

A message of hope and love

On Sunday, Jan. 12, students of the "Education for Better Work" class — part of the Self-Reliance program from the Church — participated in a community service activity at the National Police Heroes Park in Lima, Peru.

Volunteers dedicated their time to clean up the park, thus improving the public space for fellow community members, stated the Church’s Peru Newsroom.

Missionaries who were also in attendance took the opportunity to share a message with those who happened to pass through the park during the service project.

Marielena Mayaute, who teaches the “Education for Better Work” class, put together the service project to demonstrate that personal and professional development can go hand in hand with selfless service to the community and to inspire her students to put into practice the principles they have learned thus far into their course.

“Self-reliance not only means improving our skills and employability,” said Mayaute, “but also giving back to our community with actions that reflect the Savior’s love and service.”

Members in Lima, Peru, demonstrate that ‘selfless service can transform lives’

The Church’s impact in Peru: dental surgeries, blood donations and public health campaigns

How wheelchair donations in Europe can ‘encourage and inspire others to be charitable’

Emerson Manning — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:00:00 +0000

The Red Cross of Montenegro and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been working together since 2012. Since then, they have been able to provide relief and make donations to various humanitarian organizations.

Just this past year, 1,500 wheelchairs were donated to the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation according to the Church’s Europe Newsroom.

“Before working with the Church, getting a wheelchair was a very complicated and long procedure for most of the people who need it. Now, the Red Cross is recognized as an organization that provides wheelchairs in a matter of a few days, free of charge,” said Nataša Uskoković, international relations advisor at Red Cross of Montenegro.

The collaboration between humanitarian organizations provides mutual benefits for everyone involved. The recent wheelchair donation will provide mobility to those in Europe and will enable individuals to gain a sense of independence and freedom.

Gael Yonnet, a wheelchair user and a humanitarian missionary, said, “As a Church, we just don’t have the resources to have volunteers on the ground in every country at all times. But working with these organizations that are already established in each country and have networks to reach the people, we can work a lot more effectively.”

‘A renewed sense of hope and happiness’

For Fatbardha, whose last name was not given, finding employment has always been a challenge for her because of her physical disability.

“The wheelchair has allowed me to move more freely, meet friends and take care of daily tasks,” said Fatbardha. “I used to fear the judgment and pity of others, but the wheelchair has given me part of my freedom back. I’m stronger now, both physically and emotionally.”

In Europe, the Church works with other organizations to provide relief and help individuals to build self-reliance and independence.

Ilir Gashi, who works for the humanitarian organization HANDIKOS, coordinates the distribution of donated wheelchairs in Kosovo.

“Our wheelchair recipients regain independence, mobility and a renewed sense of hope and happiness, even after experiencing a life-changing accident,” Gashi said. “Without the support of our partners, it would have been impossible to offer the wide range of services we provide. Today, I can confidently say that I don’t believe there is anyone in Kosovo who needs a wheelchair and does not have access to one.”

In order for the wheelchair to assist the user according to their needs, it must fit the individual properly. Yonnet, who oversees the donations for the Church in Europe, trains volunteers to ensure that every wheelchair is perfectly tailored to each candidate’s needs.

“A wheelchair is like a shoe,” Yonnet said. “Just like you need a shoe that fits right and is intended for a specific activity, you need a wheelchair that fits properly for the activity you are doing or else it could cause further harm and complications.”

The Church provides life-changing wheelchairs for Jordanian youth

‘A chain-reaction of love and generosity’

After the diagnosis of an autoimmune neurological condition as a student, Besmira, whose last name was not given, visited the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation’s Wheelchair Workshop in Vore, Albania, and was fitted for a wheelchair.

In addition to receiving a wheelchair, she also received employment support from ADRF and eventually secured a position at the prime minister’s offices in Albania. “The beginning is hard,” said Besmira, “But once you adjust, you start seeing the wheelchair as a tool that grants you independence.”

Blerta Drenofci, the executive director of ADRF, said that support from the Church and other organizations helps to provide “independence to persons with disabilities, enhancing their quality of life by enabling participation in community activities.”

She said that in countries like Albania, cooperation among organizations is important to fill in existing gaps: “The donations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have contributed to the fulfillment of the mission of our organization, which is improvement of the quality of life and the human rights protection of persons with disabilities.”

Yonnet said, “The Savior’s charity is contagious and easily spreads. The more humanitarian work we do in His name, the more we encourage and inspire others to be charitable themselves. It’s a chain-reaction of love and generosity.”

He continued, “President Spencer W. Kimball explained that ‘it is usually through another person that [God] meets our needs.’ As members of the Church, we are blessed to be that someone, to be tools in His hands and participate in His work here on earth.”

Adriatic North Mission packages 5,000 hygiene kits to Light the World

Church provides relief to various South American countries — from Bolivia to Argentina

‘The Church is a gospel of giving and empowerment’: Recent Church donations in Africa and Mexico

Carnival creates unique missionary opportunities for Primary children in Oregon

Emerson Manning — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 16:30:00 +0000

On June 12, 2024, the Canby 1st Ward in the Oregon City Stake held its second annual community carnival, where members of the ward transform the meetinghouse lawn into a lively hub of fun and fellowship.

What began as a backyard family tradition has now grown substantially in size and spirit, giving the ward Primary children missionary opportunities.

Roseann and Scott Crum began hosting a backyard carnival where their grandchildren had the opportunity to invite nonmember friends to participate in fun games and enjoy carnival-themed food.

Around 140 people attended this past year’s carnival, with 50% being nonmember friends and community members. The inclusive event underscores the ward’s commitment to creating a welcoming space for all, while providing an unconventional form of missionary work for youth and children.

Missionary work in a ‘fun and natural setting’

The carnival serves as an opportunity for Primary children to invite nonmember friends to Church activities — showing them just one way of doing missionary work.

The youth of the ward also participated in the event by leading and coordinating games and activities, including popular attractions like car bounce, spin the wheel, axe throw (with plastic axes) and clown pong.

These youth leaders seamlessly facilitated games for approximately 90 children, demonstrating patience and kindness.

“This carnival allows our Primary children to engage with their peers and share our faith’s values in a fun and natural setting,” Roseann Crum said.

Added Scott Crum: “It was a very simple way to do it. Everybody enjoys a carnival, and it brought people to our building to make them feel maybe a little more comfortable.”

Even the missionaries attended, mingling with the crowd, adding further to the spirit of community and inclusion.

The day of service that bonded JustServe volunteers with the Salvation Army in Oregon

An ‘all-around collective effort’

Ward members and auxiliary leaders donated their time and talents to the event. Flyers were made for the Primary kids to distribute to their friends — even at school, which resulted in faces never seen before at the church.

The carnival featured traditional carnival foods such as hot dogs, popcorn and shaved ice, provided by families within the ward. Roseann Crum added that the time and donations made by the members of the ward made the activity an “all-around collective effort.”

The event exemplified the principle that missionary work can take diverse forms, encouraging youth to step into leadership roles while creating a fun, inviting atmosphere for all involved.

It served as an “organic and easy way” for young participants to engage naturally with one another, fostering understanding and cooperation among classmates, neighbors and friends.

Looking forward, the Crums are hopeful about the continuation of this event, noting how much anticipation and excitement it has generated among participants.

“It’s important that we keep the momentum going,” said Scott Crum, adding, “The kids knew it was coming, and they’d been through it before, so everyone was excited.”

This carnival reflects the Canby 1st Ward’s dedication to offering opportunities for connection, service and spiritual growth within their wider community, illustrating that Church-sponsored activities can be both impactful and enjoyable.

See a variety of ways JustServe can be used to connect community

In case you missed it: Church releases statement reaffirming immigration principles, Elder Uchtdorf ministers in Costa Rica and Colombia, plus 7 more stories

Emerson Manning — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000

During the week of Jan. 26 to Feb. 1, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement reaffirming immigration principles on Thursday, Jan. 30. Read the messages shared by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as he spoke near the capital cities of Costa Rica and Colombia in January.

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared the key objectives of the Missionary Executive Council during the 2025 Seminar for New MTC Leaders.

On Tuesday, Jan. 28, Elder D. Todd Christofferson and Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles were joined by Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson in addressing BYU–Hawaii students during the weekly devotional.

On Thursday, Jan. 30, President Johnson was honored with the Global Service Leadership award from the Sundance Institute. President Steven J. Lund, Young Men general president, spoke to missionaries on Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah.

The First Presidency of the Church has set dedication and open house dates for the Syracuse Utah Temple.

A recent update on the California wildfires gives perspective on those affected by the disaster. In the latest Church News podcast episode, Matt Grow, managing director of the Church History Department, discusses a recent example of a depiction from the Church’s past that contributes to misunderstandings of the Church and its members today.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. Church reaffirms immigration principles: love, law, family unity

The Church’s statement offers three principles and guidelines that follow previous statements on immigration.

The Church’s Office of General Counsel has created and provided guidelines to help local leaders comply with federal laws where criminal charges may result from harboring, transporting or encouraging undocumented immigrants to remain in the United States, the statement read.

2. Elder Uchtdorf ministers in Costa Rica and Colombia, invites seeking the Holy Ghost’s companionship

Elder Uchtdorf spoke to Saints, friends and missionaries in Bogotá, Colombia, and San José, Costa Rica, about the blessings of discipleship and keeping covenants.

He taught that one of the ways individuals can retain their knowledge of the gospel is to be obedient to the commandments in order to constantly have the companionship of the Holy Ghost.

3. Elder Cook shares significant missionary objectives, emphasis

During the 2025 Seminar for New MTC Leaders, Elder Cook offered a historical look at the second edition of “Preach My Gospel.”

He also listed the Missionary Executive Council’s three key objectives in emphasizing the importance of missionary work and called attention to the fact that convert baptisms aren’t the council’s first or second priority. “We don’t jump immediately to baptisms,” he said. “We go to a great, powerful, spiritual experience.”

4. Join the ‘spiritual aristocracy’ of ancestors, Elder Christofferson tells BYU–Hawaii students

Elder Christofferson honored the heritage of BYU–Hawaii and the surrounding area, urging listeners to keep its legacy of faith and build upon it during the Tuesday devotional.

“It is a serious, even sacred thing to build upon the work and achievements of those who have been diligent in their time. We take strength from our forebears. And now we must do our part. This is our day; this is our season,” Elder Christofferson declared.

5. President Camille N. Johnson honored with Sundance leadership award

As President Johnson travels the world, she sees firsthand the efforts of the Church’s global initiative for women and children — which is led by the Relief Society and which has blessed the lives of millions of women and children around the world.

“Our name tells you just exactly what we do,” she said at a luncheon in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Jan. 30. “We are the Relief Society, and it has been our objective since 1842 to bring relief, both temporal and spiritual, to all of God’s children.”

6. Remember the words of a prophet, seer and revelator, President Lund tells missionaries

After reiterating the words of President Russell M. Nelson from his landmark 2018 talk “Hope of Israel," President Lund shared, “These are words of a prophet, seer and revelator. He tells you who you are and why you are here. His talk was given directly, specifically, to you. ... As missionaries, I hope you will respond in every way possible to that divine identity as children of God.”

7. Dedication, open house dates announced for Syracuse Utah Temple

It was announced that the Syracuse Utah Temple will be dedicated in a single session on Sunday, June 8.

President Russell M. Nelson announced a temple for Syracuse, Utah, on April 5, 2020. It was one of eight new locations for future houses of the Lord identified in the concluding session of the April 2020 general conference.

8. Southern California Latter-day Saints ‘lost homes but not hope’ in wildfires

When Sara Keller thinks about the past few weeks since deadly and destructive fires began in Southern California, she says, “It’s been a shock, to be honest.”

Houses are gone as well as schools, stores, banks and businesses — more than 6,000 structures have been destroyed or damaged in that community.

“It’s the place where our children grew up, the community in that larger sense of who you run into at the market and who are on sports teams with your children and the people in the neighborhood you anticipated growing old with — all those memories in the Pacific Palisades,” Keller said.

9. Episode 225: Church historian Matt Grow encourages peacemaking amid historical misrepresentation

In this episode of the Church News podcast, Matt Grow discusses a recent example of a depiction from the Church’s past that contributes to misunderstandings of the Church and its members today.

“Disciples of Jesus Christ have always lived in a world of violence, of contention, ... but I believe that we have the historical and the scriptural resources, the organizational capacity of the Church and the will of Latter-day Saints to truly be peacemakers in the world today," testified Grow.

Church News

In case you missed it: President Nelson announces Salt Lake Temple open house dates, Elder Bednar featured on Friend to Friend, plus 8 more stories

1. President Nelson announces Salt Lake Temple open house

2. Children learn about sharing Jesus’ love through service in February Friend to Friend with Elder Bednar, Primary general presidency

3. Video: Why Latter-day Saints should ‘Trust the Youth’

4. Elder Neil L. Andersen to speak about temples, family history work at RootsTech Family Discovery Day

5. Missionaries can ‘mind the gap’ through personal relationship with Christ, says President Johnson

6. Episode 227: Primary general presidency invites children to share Jesus’ love through service

7. Renovated Toronto Ontario Temple opens for media, public tours

8. Biggest release yet for new hymnbook includes 15 songs

9. How to help children with disabilities at church

Making songs of devotion part of one’s everyday listening

Newest features

Major update for Church music website

Emerson Manning: My own road to Emmaus

In case you missed it: President Holland featured in recent video, Elder Cook ministers in Asia, plus 8 more stories

1. Video: President Holland shares feelings of love to those rebuilding from fires in Southern California

2. Elder Cook ministers in Asia, Elder Rasband ministers in the Philippines

3. Elder Christofferson speaks to young adults in the Utah Area, Elder Dunn speaks at BYU

4. Elder Andersen speaks at Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction; President Porter, Brother Wilcox speak at first-ever Global Youth Activity

5. Episode 230: RootsTech 2025 helps attendees around the world ‘discover’ their family heritage

6. Elder Kearon on the ‘beautifully optimistic trio’ of hope, help and healing when overcoming pornography

7. Sister Wright and Sister Yee build and encourage Saints in 4 central African countries

8. ‘Jesus Christ is your strength,’ teaches Young Women general presidency

9. Ground broken for Cali Colombia Temple

10. Light the World Giving Machine initiative ‘a living miracle’

In case you missed it: Read what President Nelson has taught about the Articles of Faith, President Holland in California, plus 9 more stories

1. Here’s how President Nelson has testified of the Articles of Faith as Prophet

2. President Holland’s message to Southern California Saints after wildfires

3. Elder Bednar teaches about covenants, grace in Europe and Middle East

4. Elder Christofferson meets with king of the Ga people in Ghana; in return to Zambia, Elder Renlund shares 5 foundational principles for life

5. Elder Andersen bears and shares ‘witnesses’ of the Prophet Joseph Smith

6. Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra concert in Peru’s National Stadium celebrates hope, Latin America culture

7. Episode 229: Celebrate ‘covenant community’ at the Relief Society worldwide devotional with President Camille N. Johnson and Sister Kristin M. Yee

8. Discipleship is an ‘amazing adventure’: Young Women and Primary leaders minister in Asia

9. Quell evil through faith in Jesus Christ, ‘power of our testimonies,’ Sister Spannaus teaches

10. Church releases statement following recent court ruling on the use of tithes and donations

11. Temple News: Temple Square southwest quadrant reopens to public; Lehi Utah Temple exterior rendering released plus Auckland New Zealand Temple begins public tours and media day

‘A mighty army of caring people’: Church’s donation to Tennessee medical facility

Lifting God’s children

How members in Peru and Argentina are rebuilding lives and communities

Service as a source of joy in La Plata, Argentina

A selfless service in Peru

Following Christ’s example

Church, Puerto Rico governor promote ‘principles of faith’

In case you missed it: President Oaks shares an Easter message, Elder Stevenson ministers in Brazil, plus 7 more stories

1. President Oaks invites learning, teaching the Savior’s Resurrection in year’s first Easter message

2. Ministering in Brazil, Elder Stevenson teaches 5 ways to become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ in preparation for a mission

Read more about this story here.

3. Elder Gong teaches in Mexico: ‘The holy house of the Lord invites and proclaims holiness to the Lord’

4. Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra perform 1st concert in Peru

5. Knowing one’s divine identity can be a source of strength, Elder Kearon tells Caribbean youth

6. Temple News: Groundbreaking date set for Lethbridge Alberta Temple; rendering and site announced for Philippines temple, plus site for Mexico temple

7. Episode 228: BYU’s Laura Padilla-Walker on the power of service on teen flourishing

8. How BYU’s Master of Laws program is blessing individuals, communities, the Church and nations

9. Pioneers of Chile: Early Latter-day Saints tell stories of faith and reflect on Church growth over decades

Read a second story about early Chilean Latter-day Saints here.

Read about an FSY conference in Chile.

Elder Gong teaches in Mexico: ‘The holy house of the Lord invites and proclaims holiness to the Lord’

Connection in the temple

Blessings of the temple

The miracles of temples

How a stake in Oregon is finding opportunities to share God’s light

A place to serve

Finding a purpose in serving

God’s light and love

In case you missed it: Elder Uchtdorf counsels young adults in worldwide devotional, Elder Cook speaks at MTC devotional, plus 8 more stories

1. Worldwide devotional: Elder Uchtdorf counsels young adults on making decisions with God’s help

2. Elder Cook outlines ‘4 loves of missionary work’ in MTC devotional

3. Elder Soares makes the case for compassion at International Religious Freedom Summit in Washington, D.C.

4. Video: Relief Society leader honored for group’s work in ‘Blessing Women and Children’

5. ‘Do your best’ when working to make inspired choices, says Young Women general presidency

6. Episode 226: The Sunday School general presidency on studying the ongoing Restoration with ‘Come, Follow Me’ in 2025

7. Temple news: Groundbreaking date set for Antananarivo Madagascar Temple, plus the First Presidency releases site for Florianópolis Brazil Temple

8. Elder Duncan speaks at BYU devotional, Elder Palmer speaks at BYU–Pathway devotional

9. 3 lessons from President and Sister Meredith since taking the helm of BYU–Idaho

10. RootsTech 2025 announces 3 virtual keynotes sessions

Relief Society/elders quorum lesson aid — Elder Ronald A. Rasband: ‘Behold I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up’

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