Church President Russell M. Nelson called mothers “heroic” because they provide the “precious gift” of mortal bodies to children on earth. He noted the daily influence of all women who “lift, mentor, encourage, console, teach and love others.”

“On this Mother’s Day, I salute all women who give tirelessly of themselves to make life better for all of us,” President Nelson said.

In a reel on Relief Society Worldwide, members of the Relief Society, Young Women and Primary general presidencies “passed the phone” and highlighted Christlike attributes of the next person in line. Among other compliments, they spoke of one another’s compassion, kindness and love.

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President Henry B. Eying, second counselor in the First Presidency, related a story of a lesson he learned from his mother when he was pulling weeds and exclaimed how hard it was. She replied that it was supposed to be hard because life is a test.

“Since then, I have encountered many things more difficult than stubborn weeds, and my mother’s influence, support and love have remained with me throughout my life,” President Eyring said. “To her I am forever grateful.”

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared how one of his sons positively described his mother, Elder Bednar’s wife, Sister Susan Bednar. Elder Bednar continued that he is inspired by her example of love and Christlike ministering. He added that women who both are and are not mothers “influence society and families in beautiful and enduring ways.”

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared how women today face many options and that he is grateful for those who make decisions about their lives through faith in God and His plan.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said people may express love and gratitude on Mother’s Day with varying degrees of success but urged family members to be sincere in their efforts and mothers to receive and enjoy them.

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke in a video of the talent and capacity of his wife, Sister Kathy Andersen, as she raised their children, especially during their frequent moves due to his assignments as a general authority.

“I love her, I adore her, I am forever ever indebted to her,” Elder Andersen said.

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles acknowledged the fear many young couples today feel about raising children in a “wicked and frightening” world. He said they have no need to fear as they follow the example of Jesus Christ.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles honored both his mother and his mother’s lifelong friend Melba Oakes, who blessed and encouraged his young mother after she joined the Church.

“How grateful I am for the righteous abiding influence of mothers and nurturers everywhere!” Elder Gong said. “You nurture covenant belonging — communion with God and community with each other. You bless children and families, communities and countries. You bless generations in time and eternity.”

Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles called motherhood a “divine opportunity from the Lord” and a “full and equal partnership with a father.” He added his gratitude for the influence his wife and his mother have had in bringing him closer to Jesus Christ.

Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote of the strength and sacrifices shown and made by his mother and how he can never fully appreciate them.

“Her influence lives on in me and my brother and sisters,” he said.

Read quotes from each member of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles about motherhood and womanhood

14 videos to watch for Mother’s Day

Church of Jesus Christ and UNICEF work to help babies, children and mothers in South America

Church President Russell M. Nelson, shared a clip of the blessing he gave to Relief Society members during a worldwide devotional March 17. In his post he thanked them for their devotion to the Lord and their efforts to ennoble others.

“The entire mission of the Lord’s Church is strengthened by you,” President Nelson said.

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

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared activities families can do each day in the week, also known as Holy Week, leading up to Easter on March 31.

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote about how the “For the Strength of Youth” guide helps young people use their agency to make wise choices. He reminded parents, adults and leaders to speak with youth about the content and invited all to read, ponder, apply and share the guide’s teachings.

“‘For the Strength of Youth’ teaches eternal truths about the Savior and His way,” Elder Uchtdorf said, “It helps us to make the right choices based on divine truths. It shares promised blessings that Heavenly Father extends to all who desire to follow Him.”

3 things Elder Uchtdorf said about the new ‘For the Strength of Youth’ guide

Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, shared her testimony, a part of an invitation by Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson to women around the world to share their testimonies of the Savior tagging Relief Society Worldwide and using the hashtag #JesusChristIsRelief.

“As we get a little bit older, we are a part of something that is unique,” Sister Runia said, “and it is really a special thing to feel that closeness and that kinship to each other but also to know that everything points us to the Savior, that we are His as well.”

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Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Kathy Andersen, celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary this week. On social media, he shared a video from their recent visit to the Alabang Philippines Temple construction site with a group of local youth. There they shared their gratitude for having been sealed for eternity in a temple.

“It is such a beautiful blessing,” Sister Andersen told the youth. “I mean, the most extraordinary blessing that we can receive from our Heavenly Father to kneel at the altar in the temple and be sealed to receive blessings here that we cannot receive anywhere else on the earth.”

Elder Andersen celebrates ‘the good and giving people of the Philippines’ during ministry

On the Young Women Worldwide page, Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, shared her love for Easter. She said the Savior has made it possible to transform our hearts.

That’s her favorite blessing of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, “because who wants to be the same as the day we came to earth and be the same without changing a thing — nothing — the day that we leave this earth?”

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles posted a video from the Hamilton New Zealand Temple, where he met with 11 prospective missionaries from Papua New Guinea attending the temple to receive their endowments.

“The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles assigns missionaries to go to their fields of labor,” Elder Rasband said, “and I’m excited to think I assigned one or two of these missionaries to their labors as well.”

Following along with President Johnson’s invitation for women to share their testimonies, Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared the blessings she has received through Relief Society, saying it has been “at the genesis of some of my greatest friendships.” She also said she is grateful for the opportunities she has had to serve and be served.

“But most importantly,” Sister Browning said, “Relief Society continues to be a place that brings me closer to my Savior, Jesus Christ.”

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Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a new Easter video where he testified the Book of Mormon has “the greatest Easter story ever told,” adding that its account of the risen Savior should not become “the greatest story never told.” In the days leading up to Easter, the Church is releasing videos of each apostle bearing witness of Jesus Christ, based on prior general conference addresses.

In another Easter video, Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said that because Jesus Christ endured His atoning sacrifice, He perfectly empathizes with all people.

“Jesus Christ both understands unfairness and has the power to provide a remedy,” he said.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared his witness that Jesus Christ offers healing and mercy to those who suffer physically and spiritually.

“His redeeming promises apply, no matter our past, our present or concerns for our future,” Elder Gong said.

In his Easter testimony video, Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke on the importance of exercising charity in seeking to follow the Savior.

“One of the most evident signs that we are drawing closer to the Savior and becoming more like Him is the loving, patient and kind way which we treat our fellow beings, whatever the circumstances,” said Elder Soares.

Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared his Easter message that healing can come through the Atonement of Jesus Christ because he experienced on the cross and in Gethsemane everything that all people have experienced.

He said, “Jesus specializes in the seemingly impossible.”

Though it may seem impossible, feel impossible, healing can come through the miracle of the redemptive might of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

He came here to make the impossible possible, the irredeemable redeemable, to heal the unhealable, to right the unrightable, to… pic.twitter.com/zS5mN5vj22

— Patrick Kearon (@PatrickKearon) March 18, 2024

The Young Men general presidency — President Steven J. Lund and his counselors, Brother Bradley R. Wilcox and Brother Michael T. Nelson — shared its own Easter message that the holiday can be celebrated in the week leading up to it, not just on the day of Easter. Brother Nelson added an invitation to study the Resurrection of Jesus Christ in 3 Nephi 11 in addition to the the accounts in the New Testament.

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Meanwhile, an updated general authorities and general officers chart was released; Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, spoke to Primary children in Mexico; open house tours began for the Cobán Guatemala Temple; sites for three announced temples were released; and Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, encouraged youth to continue to meet in councils.

Read summaries and find links to these nine articles below.

1. President Nelson, in a surprise appearance, rededicates the historic Manti Utah Temple

President Nelson rededicated the historic pioneer-era temple on Sunday, April 21, in a valley that all eight of his great-grandparents called home. He invited members there to make temple worship a regular part of their lives, promising it will help them meet everyday challenges.

Read the full article here.

How art conservators preserved the Manti Utah Temple murals

2. Episode 185: President and Sister Oaks on the blessing of returning to the Philippines and the Urdaneta temple dedication

President Oaks and his wife, Sister Kristen Oaks, were featured in a Church News podcast and video where they talked about his two-year assignment as president of the Philippines Area between 2002 and 2004. The appearances come in anticipation of the dedication of the Urdaneta Philippines Temple on April 28, presided over by President Oaks.

Read the full article here.

Watch the video here.

3. ‘Be peaceful; be happy,’ President Holland says in Orem, Utah

President Holland taught leaders from stakes in Orem that a willingness to be love, be loved, serve and be served will help them find peace and happiness.

Read the full article here.

4. Elder Gong invites nearly 7,000 graduates to become ‘your best BYU self’

Reflecting on three experiences he had during his own freshman year at BYU, Elder Gong invited graduates to become their “truest, happiest, freest, most authentic gospel self — in other words, your best BYU self” and distill with love and gratitude their own best BYU experiences.

Read the full article here.

5. Download this updated April 2024 chart of general authorities and general officers

During the April 2024 general conference, President Oaks presented the names of 11 new General Authority Seventies for a sustaining vote as well as changes to the Presidency of the Seventy, and a new Sunday School general presidency. The new general authorities are featured in the updated chart.

Read the full article here.

6. Heavenly Father needs children to ‘prepare the world’ for the Savior’s Second Coming, Sister Wright says in Mexico

In a special devotional for Primary children in Mexico, Sister Wright taught about Heavenly Father’s love for all His children.

“I want you to know that Heavenly Father loves you. He trusts you. And He needs you to help prepare the world for Jesus Christ’s Second Coming,” she said to the Primary children listening all over Mexico.

Read the full article here.

7. Cobán Guatemala Temple opens for media, guest and public open-house events

The Cobán Guatemala Temple will be open for public tours until Saturday, May 11. The nation’s third operating temple will be dedicated by Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on Sunday, June 9.

Read the full article here.

8. See the sites for the Lehi Utah, West Jordan Utah and Tampa Florida temples

The Church released the sites and location maps for three temples, the two in Utah having just been announced during the April 2024 general conference.

Read the full article here.

See how Saints in the Pacific reacted to news of other announced temples there.

9. The continued importance of counseling together in youth classes and quorums

Sister Spannaus said in a social media post that youth should continue to counsel together before lessons and shared how they can facilitate discussions in their councils. She added that examples for discussion questions can be found in Appendix D in the 2024 “Come, Follow Me” manual, though the youth are free to discuss other questions.

Read the full article here.

Latter-day Saint historian, author, Melissa Inouye, dies at age 44

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With its dense urban environment, that would be difficult, but she and her mother felt good about her moving to Bluffdale in Salt Lake County. Though they had trouble at first finding a place for her to live, within three hours of Bagley applying for a listing her mother passed along to her one day, the owners called to offer her the room. The owners didn’t know why, but they said they felt good about Bagley.

Bagley had no idea until she moved in that her new home was in a relatively rural area with horse stables and a roping arena in her neighbor Ken Groves’ backyard. The same week she moved in, she met her future husband, Kaden Olsen. The two now live in a different house in the same neighborhood, practicing team roping every day with Groves in his arena. For Bagley, this was another witness that God cares about what she cares about.

“He wants you to go where you’re supposed to be, and He wants more for you,” said Bagley, a content writer for Intermountain Farmers Association.

In April, Bagley joined Jaid Stowell, Madison McQuivey and Paige Clem as one of four active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to be selected for the 2024 Utah Cowgirl Collective.

A part of the Days of ‘47 Rodeo, the collective began last year as a way to preserve and promote the western agricultural lifestyle through community service and education. Applicants go through a rigorous selection process that examines their horsemanship skills and commitment to community service, narrowing the pool down to six ambassadors who commit to spend a year performing 300 hours of community service before qualifying for a $10,000 scholarship. The six ambassadors also serve as flag bearers and cow chasers at the Days of ‘47 Rodeo, which runs July 19-24.

Latter-day Saint Sayge Madsen joins 5 others in Utah’s first Cowgirl Collective

‘Make their day a little brighter’

Horsemanship, ranching and rodeo are more than hobbies or jobs to these cowgirls; they comprise a lifestyle and heritage they want to keep alive.

Stowell, a 20-year-old barrel racer, says cowboys and cowgirls exemplify toughness. In fact, she knows Utah rodeo competitors to be among the toughest. But for the Southern Utah University agriculture student from Parowan, Utah, the preservation of the western lifestyle is a practical cause, too. Many people today, she said, are disconnected from the sources of their food and struggle to maintain a healthy diet. Through her service project for the collective, she plans to focus on nutrition and build awareness of the importance of agriculture.

She sees the collective’s service requirement as an opportunity to act more selflessly within a sport that demands extensive resources and time away from family and friends in order to practice skills and care for horses.

As much as participating in rodeo can feel “selfish” at times, the cowgirls have found ways to use it to help less fortunate children, including helping run a stick rodeo — a rodeo for disabled children — put on by the Mascot Miracles Foundation.

“I’ve felt so full since then just being able to serve and help somebody make their day a little brighter,” Stowell said.

McQuivey — a BYU–Idaho graduate pursuing a career as a physician assistant — volunteers with Courage Reins, a nonprofit organization in Highland, Utah, that does equine-based therapy for people with post-traumatic stress disorder and other ailments. Now she wants to help children with literacy disabilities by using horses as a tool to help them feel confident in reading to others.

Meanwhile, Bagley and Clem are working together to organize a rodeo for children in hospitals or who have disabilities.

“Rodeo was always very empowering,” Bagley said. “You always look at little kids, and they tell you they want to be three things when they grow up: They want to be a rock star, an astronaut or a cowboy, and the reason they want to be a cowboy is because they see this lifestyle and they see how hardworking they are and how determined they are, and it’s just empowering to them.”

Empowerment is just one of the values the cowgirls say has been instilled in them by their work. Clem — a Utah State University sophomore who trains horses with her grandfather in Reese, Utah — has had to learn patience as she has worked to earn trust with her horses. She also sees the discipline and work ethic she has developed, since, in the world of ranching, one can’t pick and choose what to do and when to do it. The animals need to be cared for.

‘You can’t have one without the other’

But central to the growth of these cowgirls has been the faith they have had to rely on.

Like Bagley, relocating to the greater Salt Lake area was unsettling for McQuivey since her hometown of Logandale, Nevada, has less than 3,000 people — neither did she have the company of the horse she raised herself, True. She grew up traveling to rodeos with her grandmother and working on ranches with family friends in the summers, one of whom was Stowell.

Feeling trapped in her apartment in Highland, McQuivey prayed every day she could return to her old life. Soon she began knocking on the doors of neighbors, asking if she could ride their horses. Half the time they told her no. But soon, her father-in-law introduced her to the Mendenhalls, a couple that allowed her to use their horses and eventually move into the studio apartment above their barn.

“I’ve had to have a lot of faith in knowing that my interests and hobbies and everything that I love is important to God just as much as it’s important to me,” McQuivey said.

Faith in her family and among most in the western community extends to how they treat their animals, says Stowell, because cows and horses are Heavenly Father’s creations. “If I just have a safe horse at the end of the day, that’s what’s important because I recognize that Heavenly Father has blessed me with these horses, and that’s more important than winning.”

Clem says that horses and rodeo can’t come without faith. Regardless of belief, “everyone will bow their head for the prayer to be said [at the start of every rodeo], and so then you kind of have that feeling of peace wash over you because you know that He’s there.”

She added that even when she does get bucked off her horse or have some other accident, she still looks for the simple blessings, like her injury not being worse.

“You can’t have one without the other; you gotta include your faith in this lifestyle,” Clem said.

Stowell noted that in the interview process for the collective, the executive director mentioned that, being originally from Texas, he’s noticed something different about the cowgirls in Utah — they work harder, and are kinder and more compassionate. Stowell thinks that’s because of the influence of the Church.

“I think it just fosters ... a love for your community ... and how important it is to know where you came from and honoring their traditions, too.”

Latter-day Saint cowboy steps away from professional bull riding to serve a mission

Lessons learned as a missionary prepared this cowgirl to win Miss Rodeo America 2023

What this Latter-day Saint rodeo barrel racer learned from the ‘strong’ women in her family

In a video, President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, contrasted the lack of faith the prophet Mormon saw in his people because of their wickedness (Mormon 3:11-12) to the strong faith the brother of Jared showed in the Lord, Jesus Christ, in Ether 3:4-5, when he said, “I know, O Lord, that thou hast all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man.”

“May we follow the example of the brother of Jared and increase our faith and confidence in the Lord Jesus Christ,” President Holland wrote in his post.

Sister J. Anette Dennis, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, shared about her experience visiting with 10 men at a addiction recovery residence in Utah. Even though their choices distanced themselves from Jesus Christ, they had all grown deeper relationships with Him as they pursued recovery, allowing themselves to be spiritually healed.

“I know some of you have loved ones that have left the Church or may have chosen a path that you know will lead to heartache, such as these men have experienced,” Sister Dennis said. “But I witness to you that the Savior knows them, He loves them, and He will not leave them.”

Having just dedicated the Layton Utah Temple, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote in a post that houses of the Lord provide the opportunity to make covenant connections with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and that it is a blessing that they dot the earth today.

“As you attend, serve, and worship in the House of the Lord, my prayer for each of you is that God will open the windows of heaven and shower down upon you every needful gift,” Elder Bednar said. “You will be blessed for your dedication to making and keeping covenants.”

Elder Bednar says new house of the Lord in Layton to be a place of ‘covenant connection’ at dedication

In honor of Father’s Day, Primary General President Susan H. Porter wrote about the examples of hard work, faith and devotion to family her grandfather showed. She then asked her social media followers what impact the examples of fathers and men in their lives had on them.

Echoing President Nelson’s invitation to members to reach out to “the one,” Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles related a story from his childhood when he was not sure if he would be able to attend a father-son event in his new ward as his father was not active in the Church. A member of his ward bishopric offered to go with him to the event. The man went on to become a mentor and “a marvelous example of Christlike love” to Elder Cook.

“There are many ‘ones’ out there for us to find and minister unto,” Elder Cook said. “May we all strive to be shepherds over the Lord’s flock in our individual realms of stewardship.”

Updated: Church leaders echo President Nelson’s invitation to reach out to ‘the one’ for his 100th birthday

Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, read the second verse from a children’s song called “I Will Walk With Jesus,” included in the recent release of music to be included in the Church’s revised hymnbook. Elaborating on the verse, she said the path mentioned is the covenant path, where safety, joy and eternal life can be found.

“Friends, I look to you to make your covenants real in your life — to keep them, to think about what the next covenant is that you’ll make with your Savior, because you’ll find safety there, and that walk with our Savior will be joyful,” Sister Browning said.

First 13 songs released for new hymnbook

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who recently dedicated the Salta Argentina Temple, spoke in a video of the significance the temple has to him, since he served part of his mission in the city over sixty years ago, helping build the first chapel there.

“But what a wonderful thing to live long enough to see that transition and the progress of the Lord’s kingdom,” Elder Christofferson said. “It just says to me again, it is the Lord’s work.”

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Episode 191: Elder Christofferson reflects on his own mission to Argentina and on returning to South America to dedicate the Salta Argentina Temple

Elder Neil L. Andersen shared a portion of his April 2024 general conference address, where he counseled members to not despair despite the commotion and confusion in the world because the temple will help preserve, protect and prepare them for the return of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a video where he taught that continual improvement comes when people kindly invite others to reflect on what they would have done differently in a given situation.

Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles paid tribute to a neighbor in his childhood ward who treated him like “the one.” As he behaved well at Church meetings and passed various milestones in life, she would always grab his cheek, pat his head and tell him, “You’re a good boy” — even up to the point he returned to the ward as an Apostle — making him want to be good and be better.

“Becky’s influence on me helps me understand the importance of seeing individuals and motivates me to take President Nelson’s invitation seriously and seek out individuals that I can help,” Elder Renlund said.

Elder Renlund shares 4 vital ‘gospel nutrients’ all learners need to combat ‘spiritual malnutrition’

Young Men General President Steven J. Lund posted a story on the Young Men Worldwide page that illustrated how seemingly small spiritual experiences can accumulate into testimonies “brighter than the sums of their parts.”

“Perfect understanding will probably not come in a single event,” President Lund said. “But if we keep our eyes open, we will see the small miracles of our lives combining to create a wide panorama of spiritual understanding.”

On Father’s Day, Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, spoke of his father, who always went to Brother Wilcox’s brothers’ sports games — and expected him to come support them as well. Even though Brother Wilcox was not athletic like his brothers, his father supported him in his own talents, attending his choir concerts and plays with the same enthusiasm — and expecting his other sons to come support Brother Wilcox, too.

“And I’m just grateful for a father who not only supported his sons but taught us to appreciate, respect and support each other,” Brother Wilcox said.

In a video, Sunday School General President Mark L. Pace discussed how the prophet Abinadi’s words reached “the one,” changing the heart of Alma. While all the others in King Noah’s court rejected Abinadi, Alma would go on to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and baptize many others.

“This story teaches us that even if we don’t see the immediate results of our efforts, our faith and courage could spread through generations,” President Pace said.

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Paying tribute to fathers and their fundamental role on Father’s Day

Updated: Church leaders echo President Nelson’s invitation to reach out to ‘the one’ for his 100th birthday

During a meeting with Church members in California, President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, bore his testimony of the Book of Mormon, saying it gave him his faith and brought him closer to God than any other book.

“And I testify with no reservation, and no compromise, and not a shadow of retreat from the testimony that the Book of Mormon is true and that Moroni ... led the Prophet to a set of plates,” President Holland said.

‘Go to work with urgency,’ President Holland tells Church leaders in California

In a video posted on the Church’s official accounts, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson announced the Church’s $55.8 million contribution to eight humanitarian organizations to provide 14.7 million children and new and expectant mothers with key vitamins, supplements and medications to improve nutrition and strengthen health in 12 high-need countries.

“When you bless a woman, you bless a family, a community, a nation,” President Johnson said. “When you bless a child, you invest in the future.”

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Church donates combined $55.8 million to help women and children

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recently recognized Super Bowl-winning Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid and the Rev. A.R. Bernard Sr. of the Christian Cultural Center megachurch in New York City for their achievements. He praised them for choosing to live righteous lives by doing good for other people.

“I admire all of the good that is being accomplished by so many people throughout the world — not just those recognized here,” Elder Cook said. “I pray each of us will continue working together to defend faith and help bless all of God’s children.”

A model of interfaith cooperation, New York Rev. A.R. Bernard receives leadership award from Elder Cook

Following up on President Johnson’s Church donation announcement, Sister J. Anette Dennis, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, said she had been in Ghana observing how the Church and the eight organizations it is donating to are working together to accomplish their goal of ending child malnutrition.

“Our singular purpose is to reach the day when no mother bears the pain of watching her child suffer from malnutrition,” Sister Dennis said.

She added that Relief Society sisters can learn how to participate in these efforts by visiting caring.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

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Having visited various nations and cultures around the world, Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared his feelings that most people are good people who love their families and want to help others. He said he observed that in a recent visit to a rabbinical seminary in Argentina where Rabbi Ariel Stofenmacher gave him a shofar, a horn used in Jewish religious practices like Rosh Hashanah.

“The light of Christ illuminates all the world and we rejoice with all those who try so hard to choose good over evil,” Elder Andersen said. “Let us continue to build relationships and foster understanding with others we love and respect.”

From Mexico, Sister Kristin M. Yee, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, posted about the Church’s donation announcement to help women and children under the age of 5. She noted how she has witnessed many examples of Relief Society sisters gathering others to serve those in need.

Though the Church is bringing together global organizations that have experts in humanitarian work, Sister Yee said, “Still, perhaps the best humanitarian outreach is done close to home as you reach across the fence or across the street.”

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In a recent assignment in the Philippines, Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles invited Saints in the nation to focus on three traits of discipleship: read, pray and obey.

Primary General President Susan H. Porter shared that Heavenly Father wants to help children grow spiritually by changing their hearts and providing them strength.

Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles posted about his admiration for Latter-day Saints in Mongolia and Japan, whom he visited recently, and who, he said, have incredible love and faith.

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared an excerpt from “Preach My Gospel” that explains what it means to be humble.

In a video, Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, read the words of the song “Gethsemane,” included in the Church’s new hymnbook. She said that in her travels, Primary children often tell her that is their favorite song. She said the line saying the Savior went to the cross with love and prayer in His heart brought to her mind Hebrews 12:2, which says Christ was able to bear the experience of the Atonement by focusing on joy.

Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, shared a quote from the late Elder John A. Widtsoe of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who once wrote that one cannot expect to comprehend the gospel of Jesus Christ with casual study.

“It is a paradox that men [and women] will gladly devote time every day for many years to learn a science or an art; yet they expect to win a knowledge of the gospel, which comprehends all sciences and arts, through perfunctory glances at books or occasional listening to sermons,” Elder Widtsoe said. “The gospel should be studied more intensively than any school or college subject.”

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President Emily Belle Freeman’s invitations for making the scriptures into friends

Elder Bednar: These days are ‘a remarkable season’ in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

In light of his upcoming birthday, President Nelson — referencing the parable of the shepherd who left his 99 other sheep to find the missing one — invited Latter-day Saints to note his centennial milestone by prayerfully considering who they can minister to one-on-one. He asked that members do this over the next 100 days leading up to his birthday, which is Sept. 9. Three other senior leaders of the Church echoed his call in their own social accounts using the hashtag #99plus1.

“What a beautiful example the Savior has shown us — that through each of us ministering to just one within our reach, we can spread the love of Jesus Christ throughout the world,” President Nelson said.

Church leaders echo President Nelson’s invitation to reach out to ‘the one’ for his 100th birthday

Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson on a ministry visit to Central American nations posted a video from the Panama City Panama Temple where said the temple “is at the heart of everything that we do.”

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President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, repeated President Nelson’s invitation to reach out to “the one.” He noted their 40 years serving together as apostles and how President Nelson has consistently taught him by example how to serve selflessly and lovingly.

“President Nelson is an exemplary follower and servant of the Savior,” President Oaks said. “He is a great role model for all members and leaders in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is always very open and easy to approach, and he is unfailingly kind and compassionate.”

Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, posted on Young Women Worldwide about the importance of planning activities in councils ahead of time, so the activities are more enjoyable and meaningful. She referenced Moses 3:5, where the Lord says He created all things spiritually before He created them physically. She outlined a six-step process for planning activities, which begins with considering the needs of class members and having a clear purpose.

President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency, added his praise for President Nelson and reiterated his call to serve someone as the Savior would. He mentioned how he has always been impressed by how President Nelson’s love for others translates to his ability to remember their names and when they met. Even the sound of his voice when he speaks their names “seems to convey his great love.”

Primary General President Susan H. Porter wrote that people can come to know for themselves that God is real and He loves them.

“When you know that Heavenly Father is real and that He loves you, you can live with courage and hope!” said President Porter.

Children are part of the body of Christ: What baptized Primary children can do in the Lord’s Church

President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, called President Nelson “the kindest man I have ever been associated with,” adding that he cannot think of a time the Prophet was unkind, abrupt, rude or insensitive.

“I genuinely believe that Russell M. Nelson may be the man for whom the word ‘gentleman’ was created,” President Holland said. “As we strive to follow the Savior, let us follow the example of President Nelson’s Christlike character.”

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, posted about how both the prophet Abinadi and the Savior Jesus Christ stood alone in their sufferings, yet they endured because of the willingness to humbly submit to will of the Lord.

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In an Instagram live Q&A, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles answered two questions from young adults concerning spiritual promptings, trusting in God and making the right decisions.

Elder Bednar testified to viewers that because God knows each person personally, all who keep their covenants can trust that they will not “go amiss.”

“If I trust in God, if I am not perfect but I am living the gospel, I am going to press forward, anticipating that I will discover things along the way that will help me. But I cannot discover them if I am just sitting and waiting for an answer to show up.”

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Elder Bednar tells young adults in Instagram live Q&A to ‘trust in God’ as they strive to follow promptings

Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared in a video one of the principles she recently shared with BYU–Idaho graduates, which is that developing simple daily routines — such as prayer, scripture study and temple attendance — can bring one closer to Jesus Christ, remaining “steadfast” on the covenant path.

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Center life on Jesus Christ’s ‘sure foundation,’ Sister Tracy Y. Browning tells BYU–Idaho graduates

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles posted about the “moving” experience he and his wife, Sister Kathy Christofferson, had visiting the Tambo Memorial Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, to which the Church has donated. As they saw the newborn infants, their older siblings and mothers, the Christoffersons felt that each life was sacred and truly mattered.

“When you see a life hanging in the balance and the tender care given to each child, it becomes more real and more clear,” Elder Christofferson said. “It is care inspired by the Spirit and given in the name of and following the example of Christ.”

Elder Christofferson emphasizes the power of covenants in South Africa

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke highly of the Saints in Chlle, where he visited recently.

“Their eyes were bright and their hearts were open and willing,” Elder Andersen said of the youth, adding that their country and the future of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ there are beautiful and bright.

In one of several posts he made about his ministry to the Church’s South America Northwest Area — including Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela and Colombia — Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote about grateful he is for God’s plan of happiness for his children.

“How blessed we are to have a Father in Heaven who loves us and a Savior who provides a path for us to follow to find joy in this life and for all eternity,” Elder Rasband said.

Brother Michael T. Nelson, second counselor in the Young Men general presidency, wrote to young men that the Lord has great confidence in them and will work through them to accomplish great things. He will help them plan activities that will prepare them and their Young Men groups to “be smarter and wiser and have more impact on the world than any previous generation!” he posted on Young Men Worldwide, quoting President Russell M. Nelson.

See previous posts from leaders on social media

Elder and Sister Stevenson invite Filipino youth to become disciples of Jesus Christ

Podcast Episode 191: Elder Christofferson reflects on his own mission to Argentina and on returning to South America to dedicate the Salta Argentina Temple

In the Q&A, which lasted about 10 minutes, Elder Bednar answered two questions centering on personal revelation, trusting God and decision-making in a discussion with a young married couple named Brock and Bailee. The questions were selected from thousands submitted since Elder Bednar announced the Q&A the day prior, with a focus on questions and concerns from young adults.

The questions were:

• Sometimes things don’t work out when I follow a prompting. How can I keep trusting in God?
• There are so many decisions to make about a career, marriage, etc. How do I not get frozen? How can I know which good option is best?

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Elder Bednar responded that promptings are rarely isolated instances but rather parts of a sequence, “line upon line, precept upon precept.” He gave an example that if a young man or young woman receives a spiritual prompting to date somebody, that does not necessarily mean that is the person they should marry. Instead, the purpose may be to help them learn and help them develop in preparation for another relationship.

“We would be foolish to ever stop trusting [God]. He is not the problem. We may give ourselves our own promptings and somehow think it came from God, that we mix our own emotions with an impression from God.”

In response to the second question, Elder Bednar read from Doctrine and Covenants 80, where the Lord calls Stephen Burnett on a mission, telling him “go ye and preach my gospel, whether to the north or to the south, to the east or to the west, it mattereth not, for ye cannot go amiss.”

Elder Bednar elaborated that the Lord does care where one goes, but He is telling them to first “get going” and “get started” in some direction and as they honor their covenants, He will guide them to the right place.

“If I trust in God, if I am not perfect but I am living the gospel, I am going to press forward, anticipating that I will discover things along the way that will help me. But I cannot discover them if I am just sitting and waiting for an answer to show up.”

To conclude, Elder Bednar testified that because God knows every person personally and individually, all can trust that He will not micromanage but guide them and not let them “go amiss.”

Watch Elder Bednar's third live Q&A on Instagram

Elder David A. Bednar: ‘Be Still, and Know That I Am God’

Elder Bednar explains what it means to become ‘the wondrous works of God’s work’

As part of an ongoing partnership, the Church donated 150 sheep to Al Jahuth, a non-profit charity in Madaba, Jordan, founded by Mansour Oklah Al Hashem that continues to operate under his children, Sana’a Al Hashem and Abdalmote Al Hashem. Al Jahuth volunteers — who work full-time jobs to support their own families — milk the sheep by hand twice a day and have provided half of it so far to three families for three months while teaching them how to make butter, yogurt, cheese and jameed, a Jordanian specialty, to sell.

The plan is to have the families, after the three months, use the money they earn to purchase sheep or goats to provide themselves with a reliable, perpetual income. Meanwhile, the multiplying sheep provide perpetual income for Al Jahuth, allowing them support more families in the future and reach their goal of becoming a sustainable, independent organization. Since receiving the sheep nine months ago, the fold has grown to 220 from the original 150; it is expected to reach nearly 600 within the next five years.

Many of the families Al Jahuth assists are refugees.

“Many refugee families raised sheep or goats before being driven from their homes in Syria,” Sana’a Al Hashem said. “This is something they know how to do well. For others, it is a new venture, an opportunity to learn new skills and stand independently.” In both cases, she said, “Having a milk goat makes a huge difference to these families to be able to provide better for themselves.”

The Church also donated nine months’ worth of feed for the sheep and some money for a serviceable truck.

The latest collaboration between the Church and Al Jahuth was in December 2023 when the Church donated money for Al Jahuth to purchase blankets, heaters and coats for children among 150 families living in tents who would otherwise struggle to survive the winter. Sana’a Al Hashem learned the coat sizes of each of the children to ensure their jackets would fit.

The milk sheep donation is just one way the Church and Al Jahuth have helped build self-reliance among refugee families in Jordan. In 2022, the Church News reported on an effort that began in 2019 that provided goats to 135 households with 931 children and beehives to 105 households with 766 children. Syrian refugee Dohad Mohamad Alsholbi sold enough honey to move his family into a house and send his children to school.

“I am proud to have an income, to have a second chance in life with the bees,” he told Middle East Newsroom at the time. “I believe in the Lord, that He is providing for my children. He is helping me, and I have to keep going in order to continue to reach success.”

Latter-day Saint Charities also helped Palestinian refugees living in Jordan in 2021 with a donation of medical equipment to Medical Aid for Palestinians.

Church donates to foundation launched by first lady of Gambia

How goats and beehives are helping people in Jordan become self-reliant

14 photos of what Latter-day Saint Charities is doing to help Palestinians in Jordan

Mothers in Pakistan and Yemen find hope in the fight against maternal and neonatal tetanus

Elder Tonga J. Sai, an Area Seventy in the Africa West Area, represented the Church in presenting the donation to first lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, who organized the Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow Foundation to fund humanitarian services focused on health, education, the socioeconomic sector and female empowerment, said a Church Newsroom press release.

Elder Sai was joined by Samuel Owusu Amako, president of the Banjul Branch, and James Owusu Ansah, the Africa West Area communication director.

Gambia President Adama Barrow and other dignitaries from the Gambia and West Africa accompanied the first lady.

First lady Bah-Barrow, who has collaborated with the Church in other humanitarian efforts, thanked the Church and asked Elder Sai to share her gratitude with Elder S. Gifford Nielsen — a General Authority Seventy who presented the Church’s donation of 18 boreholes for Gambian villages last year — and Church President Russell M. Nelson — whom she met in 2022 at Church headquarters in Salt Lake City.

“I know that President Nelson is turning 100 years old this year. I am turning 50, so I am halfway there,” Bah-Barrow said.

On Aug. 18, 2023, Elder Nielsen, who serves as president of the Church’s Africa West Area, and Bah-Barrow participated in three ribbon-cutting ceremonies in the villages of Bonsa, Giboro Gidda and Kubariko to mark the development of 18 boreholes, which the Church donated. Boreholes are deep, narrow holes made to access groundwater. When mechanized they can provide a village 10,000 liters (about 2,642 gallons) of water every day.

“Water is life,” Elder Nielsen said in Kubariko. “No longer will members of your community need to walk kilometers to fetch water that is often contaminated. No longer will your children miss school to help their families get the water they need for drinking, cooking and washing. And no longer will you need to worry about the waterborne diseases associated with contaminated water.”

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles was the first Apostle to visit the Gambia when he met with the Barrows in Banjul on Feb. 23, 2022. In their meetings, Elder Christofferson and government leaders saw the potential for collaboration. At Elder Christofferson’s invitation, Bah-Barrow visited with him and the First Presidency in Salt Lake City that August. Elder Christofferson said at the time that the Church had donated $1.7 million for humanitarian assistance in Gambia over the past three or four years.

During her visit, the first lady attended a BYU Education Week devotional given by Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and toured the Church’s Humanitarian Center and Welfare Square.

“Everyone is smiling, and it shows love; and you [have] already accepted us as family,” Bah-Barrow said at the time. “And that’s what we believe in the Gambia — we believe in family.”

The first Latter-day Saint branch in the Gambia was organized on June 10, 2022, with 14 members. It is part of the Cote d’Ivoire Abidjan West Mission. There are now over 100 members in the Banjul Branch, according to the press release.

Church leaders promote religious freedom and interfaith harmony across Africa

Church opens 18 new water boreholes in Gambia, leaders meet with country’s president and first lady

Church leaders welcome first lady of Gambia, who also visits educational, humanitarian sites

First Latter-day Saint branch organized in Gambia

Other stories published this week include coverage of the annual gathering for the Church’s past and present women leaders, the 195th anniversary of the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood, how the Church is supporting UNICEF’s vaccination efforts against maternal and neonatal tetanus and the Church’s response to natural disasters in Brazil and Papua New Guinea. This week’s podcast episode features Deseret News opinion editor Jay Evensen.

Read summaries and find links to these nine stories below.

1. Video: What President and Sister Oaks learned in the Philippines about the strength and influence of women

Commenting on his 2002 to 2004 assignment as an Apostle to “establish the Church” in the Philippines, President Oaks noted the influence and leadership exhibited by mothers and wives in Filipino households and how that helped move the work forward among priesthood leaders. While President Oaks and Area Seventies would meet with priesthood holders, Sister Oaks and the wives of other area leaders would meet with the women to teach them the “full Church program.”

Watch the video here.

Podcast Episode 185: President and Sister Oaks on the blessing of returning to the Philippines and the Urdaneta temple dedication

2. Elder Cook encourages individuals to have a ‘heart in tune with the music of faith’

In an Ensign College devotional on Tuesday, May 14, Elder Cook encouraged students to soften their hearts, live according to the Savior’s teachings, be in harmony with the promptings of the Spirit and actively study the scriptures. He also asked them to keep marriage, children and family at the forefront of their personal goals.

Read the full article here.

3. 5 upcoming temple dedications in 5 Sundays, 2 by Elder Gong in succession

Beginning with the dedications of the Puebla Mexico Temple on May 19 and Taylorsville Utah Temple on June 2 — both by Elder Gerrit W. Gong — the five-week span of temple dedications will also include the Cobán Guatemala Temple, Salta Argentina Temple and Layton Utah Temple. While significant, it’s not the first time several temples have been dedicated in such a short period. In April 2000, for example, members of the First Presidency dedicated six temples.

Read the full article here.

4. Groundbreaking date set for Ribeirão Preto Brazil Temple and exterior renderings released for temples in Brazil, Guatemala

The First Presidency announced that groundbreaking for the Ribeirão Preto Brazil Temple will take place June 22. It is one of 23 temples in Brazil dedicated, announced or under construction. Artist renderings for the Maceió Brazil Temple and Huehuetenango Guatemala Temple were also released. Both temples were announced by President Russell M. Nelson in 2022.

Read more about the Ribeirão Preto Brazil Temple groundbreaking here and the Maceió and Huehuetenango temple renderings here.

5. ‘A glorious season to be covenant women’: Annual luncheon for current and past women leaders

About 200 current and former members of Primary, Young Women and Relief Society general organization leadership gathered for an annual luncheon where the three current women general presidents — President Camille N. Johnson, President Emily Belle Freeman and President Susan H. Porter — gave updates about their organizations’ work and shared uplifting messages about women’s role in God’s plan.

Read the full article here.

6. Significant event in Latter-day Saint history occurred 195 years ago this month

May 15 marked the 195th anniversary of the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood through the Prophet Joseph Smith and his scribe Oliver Cowdery. The landmark event ushered in the restoration of Jesus Christ’s original Church, complete with the authority to perform saving ordinances such as baptism. On that day in 1829, John the Baptist appeared to Joseph and Oliver and conferred the Aaronic Priesthood upon them, allowing them to then baptize each other with full authority.

Read the full article here.

7. Responding to natural disasters in Brazil and Papua New Guinea

Following deadly floods and earthquakes in Brazil and Papua New Guinea, the Church has responded with volunteers, food, supplies and shelter. In Brazil, 21 meetinghouses were opened to shelter hundreds of displaced people. In Papua New Guinea, local leaders organized several trips by truck and boat to transport water containers, canvases and tarpaulins, and food supplies.

Read the full stories about the humanitarian response in Brazil here and the response in Papua New Guinea here.

8. Mothers in Pakistan and Yemen find hope in fight against maternal and neonatal tetanus

The Church is supporting efforts by UNICEF to provide maternal and neonatal tetanus vaccines to women Pakistan and Yemen. In December 2022, the Church provided UNICEF with a $5 million donation to combat the disease in the Middle East and Africa. UNICEF announced that the support from the Church and other nonprofit and governmental organizations has helped reach 3 million women in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan.

Read the full article here.

Pioneer baby who died along the Iowa trail receives new gravesite memorial

9. Church News podcast, episode 188: Deseret News opinion editor Jay Evensen on forgiveness and peacemaking

In the latest Church News podcast, Jay Evensen, working as Deseret News opinion editor since 1996, talks about the legacy and mission of the Deseret News to inform and influence, as well as forgiveness and peacemaking in a polarized society.

Listen to the podcast here.

New parenting toolkit teaches kids to ‘Disagree Better’

What this BYU professor told the United Nations about why marriage and family matters

‘Spiritual anchor’: How one woman’s experience shows the difference of an early morning seminary teacher

Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, wrote in a post on Young Women Worldwide that the “For the Strength of Youth” guide can help young people develop a solid foundation for making important decisions and “find joy in following Jesus Christ.” She mentioned that in recently reading a section on technology, she felt inspired to connect face-to-face with some of her friends. She asked young women to note in the comments how “For the Strength of Youth” has helped them make important decisions.

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared an excerpt from “Preach My Gospel” on what it means to have integrity.

What Elder Cook shared on social media about the New York Times' feature on missionary work

Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, shared his gratitude and awe for The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square and its “beautiful” performances during the April 2024 general conference.

He added that he loves singing hymns because the Lord said, as recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 25:12, “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.”

Watch or listen to 19 songs sung by 3 choirs during the April 2024 general conference

In a video, Sunday School General President Mark L. Pace shared two memorable experiences he had when individuals at Church meetings bore “pure testimonies” that focused on the Savior Jesus Christ and the restoration of His gospel. He said that people often mistakenly believe they must offer elaborate talks during fast and testimony meetings, when simple, powerful testimonies are enough to bless others.

“Fast and testimony meetings have powerful, powerful, powerful spiritual influence in our lives as we let them by bearing testimony,” President Pace said.

See previous posts from leaders on social media

Mother’s Day on social: Leaders honor all women who ‘tirelessly’ serve

Elder Cook encourages individuals to have a ‘heart in tune with the music of faith’

President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, shared a clip from his April 2024 general conference address, where he spoke on the power and importance of prayer. He called prayer “our simplest, purest form of worship” and added that if one does not know how or what to pray for, “we should begin, and continue, until the Holy Spirit guides us into the prayer we should be offering.”

President Jeffrey R. Holland at April 2024 general conference: ‘Motions of a Hidden Fire’

On Young Women Worldwide, President Freeman shared her thoughts and feelings on councils. She said the Young Women general advisory council consists of women of various backgrounds and nationalities. Despite that, their common belief in Jesus Christ brings them together to accomplish His work for girls in the Church.

“If you ever feel alone, just know this entire group of women is cheering for you. Thinking of you. Praying for you,” President Freeman said.

Meet the 14 new members of the Young Women general advisory council

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a clip from his April 2024 general conference talk where he used the story of Jesus healing the woman with an issue of blood to explain that no sin or weakness is too great for the healing power of the Savior.

“We may think that our condition somehow disqualifies us from his healing — that the distance is too great or our sins too many,” Elder Uchtdorf said. “Like this woman, I have learned that if we draw near to God and reach out to touch him, we can indeed find healing, peace and joy.”

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf at April 2024 general conference: ‘A Higher Joy’

Primary General President Susan H. Porter posted photos of children in their own homes watching her April 2024 general conference address that was directed to them.

“I am continually humbled by children’s desire to learn the gospel of Jesus Christ,” President Porter said.

President Susan H. Porter at April 2024 general conference: ‘Pray, He Is There’

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a clip from a recent Provo Missionary Training Center devotional where he taught that true spiritual development comes slowly through smaller, subtler impressions from the Holy Ghost.

“Personal foundations, like many worthwhile pursuits, are usually built slowly, one layer, one experience, one challenge, one setback and one success at a time,” Elder Cook said.

Elder Cook discusses Kirtland Temple, Book of Mormon and personal testimony at Provo MTC devotional

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared how King Benjamin in the Book of Mormon reigned with integrity, following the example set forth by Jesus Christ.

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Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles summarized five things he learned from two experts, during an anti-pornography conference he spoke at on May 4.

1. If you don’t view pornography, don’t start.

2. If you view pornography, stop.

3. If you can’t stop, get help.

4. If you have hurt someone by viewing pornography, recognize the hurt you have caused and with a broken heart and contrite spirit work to earn their trust again.

5. If you have been hurt by a loved one, it’s not your fault, and you, too, can heal.

Elder Renlund combines spiritual and professional knowledge during anti-pornography conference

See previous posts from leaders on social media

Meet the 2 new Primary general advisory council members

Podcast Episode 187: Olympic hopeful runner Courtney Wayment on ‘belief, resilience, faith and hope’

President and Sister Kauwe spoke side-by-side on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, during BYU–Hawaii’s first devotional of the semester and used the words of modern prophets to lay out how students should approach dating and relationships as they strive to heed God’s commandment to marry and raise children.

The couple relied largely on an address given to young adults in the summer of 2023 by President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency and his wife, Sister Kristen M. Oaks. They also promoted a list of helpful resources for dating found at byuh.edu/dating.

President Kauwe reiterated the teaching found in ”The Family: A Proclamation to the World” that “Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan.” He also noted how marriage, according to data from the General Social Survey, increases the odds of individual happiness.

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Starting with personal preparation through covenant keeping

Sister Kauwe quoted Sister Oaks, who urged young adults in her 2023 address to “stop waiting” for a marriage prospect “and start preparing” for it through education, experience, planning and trusting in the Lord.

Sister Kauwe told students: “The foundational principle of dating and covenant marriage is personal preparation.”

She counseled her listeners to not dwell on their own imperfections. “When you elevate the way you honor your covenants and follow Jesus Christ, your physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual wellness will be elevated too.”

President Kauwe added that that type of preparation will offer freedom from the fears often associated with dating, such as commitment and failure.

What exactly is a date?

President Kauwe reminded of President Oaks’ definition of dating — inspired by the latter’s granddaughter — in that a date consists of the “three p’s”: (1) planned ahead, (2) paid for, (3) paired off.

President Oaks counseled young adults in a 2005 address to engage in dating patterns that can mature into marriage and to avoid casual or group dating.

Sister Kauwe gave a disclaimer that a single date, or two, does not have to lead to marriage — nor is there an obligation to go on a second date, though going on a date with someone that one may not envision marrying could be a good learning experience. President Kauwe, quoting BYU–Hawaii faculty member Aaron Curtis, who said that it’s okay that most dates will not lead to marriage.

Sister Kauwe emphasized an extra characteristic of a good date: communication, including good listening. She then included four other guidelines:

• Follow a plan that is shared with the other person ahead of time
• Be in a safe environment and public area
• Include a wholesome activity that allows for comfortable conversation
• Have a clear, predetermined endpoint

Consent

President Kauwe issued a warning about physical touch, saying that “Any physical expression of affection or romantic interest, such as holding hands, an embrace, or a kiss should be preceded by clear communication and affirmative consent.

“Affirmative consent must be informed, voluntary and active, meaning that, through the demonstration of clear words or actions, a person has indicated permission to engage in mutually agreed-upon physical interaction.

“The absence of a ‘no’ does not mean ‘yes’ and consent on one occasion does not mean consent can be assumed from that time forth.”

He added, “you do not owe anyone any amount of physical affection for taking you out on a date.”

What about the second date and beyond?

Sister Kauwe said that going on multiple dates does not necessarily have to translate into an exclusive relationship, but, regardless, President Kauwe said the only way to know the status and direction of a relationship is to communicate openly.

“Break-ups should not be dreaded; they are a healthy step forward when a relationship isn’t progressing,” Sister Kauwe said. “If you are feeling you don’t want a second date, or that you want to end a relationship, then communicate that! Be kind and candid. Don’t make the other person try to figure out your feelings. Don’t ghost people.”

She also stressed the importance of keeping the law of chastity as a relationship progresses.

Engagement

President Kauwe asked students to remember the counsel spoken by Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles that “[N]one of us marry perfection; we marry potential. The right marriage is not only about what I want; it’s also about what she — who is going to be my companion — wants and needs me to be.”

He repeated the importance of remaining chaste as a couple while growing in communication and spirituality.

What about marriage?

President Kauwe said that after marriage, a couple should continue their personal preparation, good communication and dating.

“Harmony in marriage comes only when one esteems the welfare of his or her spouse among the highest of priorities,” President Kauwe said quoting a talk by President Russell M. Nelson. “When that really happens, a celestial marriage becomes a reality, bringing great joy in this life and in the life to come.”

Sister Kauwe shared comforting words from Sister Oaks — who married for the first time at age 53 — that the Lord loves those who find themselves waiting a long time for marriage and that there is no specific timeline for starting a family. The focus should be, Sister Kauwe said, on making and keeping covenants, developing talents and seeking personal revelation.

President Kauwe closed with his testimony of the love of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, of modern prophetic guidance and of the sacred ordinances that make eternal families possible.

“Go forth with faith and confidence. Seek to make and honor eternal covenants, including being sealed to your eternal companion in the house of the Lord.”

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Elder Godoy in worldwide devotional: Young adults can have a hopeful and joyous future through Christ

Argentina

1. In March, the Church’s Argentina Newsroom reported a donation of office equipment to the Mar de Plata Regional Hemotherapy Center, allowing for more organization and efficiency in assisting community patients. The center and the Church also highlighted their standing agreement to conduct four blood donations annually.

2. The Church donated over a dozen pieces of equipment in March to upgrade an operating room in the María Curie Municipal Cancer Hospital in Buenos Aires. The items include a mechanical operating table, a portable ultrasound machine with abdominal transducer to guide biopsy punctures, a surgical lamp, an anesthesia machine, an anesthetic vaporizer, a multiparameter monitor, a capnograph, a diode laser, a video bronchoscope, a bipolar resectoscope and others. Where 60 patients a month could be accommodated previously, the new equipment will increase efficiency and allow about 250 patients a month to be treated in the operating room.

3. At Ramón Carrillo Hospital in San Vincente in April, the Church donated a hematocrit centrifuge, an electrocardiograph, two wheelchairs, two stretchers for transfer with railings and IV poles and a three-movement orthopedic articulated bed. Hospital director Dr. Jessica Derissio said, “This donation not only represents invaluable material help but also a gesture of spiritual support and solidarity that strengthens our daily work.”

Colombia

4. In March, the Church’s Colombia Newsroom reported a donation in Riohacha of a C-Arm machine, an X-ray device used during surgeries, allowing medical staff to conduct safer and more optimal procedures. María Angélica Martínez Camacho, director of the hospital, stated: “We can unite with a single purpose, to help the population. For us, the ESE (State Social Enterprise) Hospital Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, it is a real blessing that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has managed to articulate this donation with us and that today it is materialized for the ESE and for the community in general.”

5. On April 8 in Cúcuta, the Church made a monetary donation to MedGlobal that will provide general medical consultations, first aid kits, food, hydration supplies and nutritional supplements for 31,000 migrants and internally displaced persons, prioritizing children and newborns. The donation will also help facilitate workshops for community leaders to develop capacities to identify medical emergencies.

6. A donation made to the humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on April 2 will help provide hot meals and primary health-care services to 37,500 migrants in Santander.

Peru

7. The Church’s Peru Newsroom reported that in Lima on March 22, service missionaries delivered over 60 pieces of medical equipment and specialized furniture to the Ministry of Health, intended for use in Andahuaylas. The ministry’s general director of international technical cooperation, Normy Wieslawa De Pawlikowski Amiel, thanked the Church, recalled its donations in past emergencies and said he considers the Church a permanent ally.

8. On April 24, in Ventanilla, Callao, the Church made a monetary donation to the World Food Program to help reduce anemia by 5% among children under 5 years old. The donation will help pay for iron supplements, healthy foods and the promotion of good nutrition among families. The Church was represented by Elder Jorge T. Becerra, a General Authority Seventy and first counselor in the South America Northwest Area presidency.

9. A donation of medical equipment made on April 16 to the National Maternal Perinatal Institute in Lima is expected to benefit about 28,000 people, mainly mothers, receive 1,700 ultrasounds, 1,800 infertility consultations, 7,000 cesarean sections, care for 4,000 newborns and around 13,500 general consultations.

Uruguay

10. In April, the Church gave the Paso de los Toros Health Center dental and gynecological instruments, according to the Church’s Uruguay Newsroom. The donation includes two gynecology stretchers, an automatic external defibrillator, an electrocardiograph, hysterometers, wheelchairs, three nursing carts, a dental chair, three upper and lower premolar forceps and three metal boxes for large instruments.

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She worked as a texture and concept artist and a senior producer at Disney Interactive Studios for 13 years before becoming the manager/producer of the Church’s animation team.

Before her call to the Relief Society general presidency, Sister Yee served as a member of the Primary general advisory council, stake Relief Society president, ward Relief Society counselor and secretary, ward Young Women president and adviser, Gospel Doctrine instructor, ward missionary and temple ordinance worker in the Salt Lake and Bountiful Utah temples.

In honor of her birthday, here are nine quotes from Sister Yee over the past year.

1. Covenant rest

“Rest comes when we know that God knows us and loves us. His rest comes when we find joy in bringing the Savior’s relief to others and let others bring His relief to us. … Rest comes when we remember and reflect upon the beautiful blessings God mercifully grants us each day.”

– BYU Women’s Conference, May 1, 2024

2. Family history and temple work

“When we engage in the gathering of Israel, we bring the Savior’s RELIEF in one of the most loving and eternally significant ways. The gathering of Israel is not just a logistical exercise. It is gathering all of God’s family, including you and me, into the covenant blessings He desires for us, the blessings of a covenant relationship.”

– This week on social, March 15, 2024

3. Partnership with God

“We are never alone. We do not need to navigate the challenges, the uncertainties and the weaknesses of life alone. He will be beside us; this is our covenant promise and blessing.”

– Relief Society Worldwide gathering, March 17, 2024

4. #BecauseofHim

“Because of Him, I can be redeemed. I can change. If I repent and turn to Him, that He will help me, that He will purify my heart, that I can become more as He is.”

– This week on social, March 29, 2024

5. Covenant relationships with Jesus Christ

“Our Heavenly Father and Savior want to give you an abundance of blessings, a personal well of living water through your covenants.”

– BYU devotional, Oct. 24, 2023

6. Talents

“But I’ve learned that we when use our talents to bring happiness to others, the Savior helps us to grow our talents. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love you, and They will help you to use your talents to bless others as you keep practicing and listening to the prompting of the Holy Ghost.”

– Instagram reel, Oct. 8, 2023

7. Journey of faith

“[The guidance of the Holy Ghost] led me to be able to make bigger, I think I would say more difficult, decisions, perhaps, in faith.”

– Church News video, July 27, 2023

8. Running for Christ

“Your pace and progress is between you and the Lord. And I think He’s not so much concerned about your placement in comparison to the person ahead of you or behind you. Rather, I think He’s focused on helping you to keep going wherever you are in your personal journey back home to Him. So find and enjoy the pace that works for you, and let Heavenly Father and the Savior strengthen and enlighten your steps!”

– Facebook post, Aug. 18, 2023

9. Loving God more

“The more we understand God’s ways, the more we will love Him.”

– Nauvoo Relief Society devotional, Oct. 19, 2023

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President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, posted about the “privilege” he had to preside over the dedication of the Urdaneta Philippines Temple.

“Temple teachings center on Jesus Christ. All that is taught here relates to our Savior,” President Oaks said. “This is His House. This is His work, and the work of His Father. I pray that our Heavenly Father will help us qualify for the blessings that are our destiny as His children.”

President Oaks dedicates Urdaneta Philippines Temple for faithful Filipino members who ‘believe these things’ and ‘do them’

During a keynote address at BYU Women’s Conference, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson shared how keeping the Lord and her family as her top priorities has allowed God to prevail in her life.

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President Johnson to the women of the Church: How will you let God prevail?

President Holland read three excerpts (3 Nephi 5:8-9; 3 Nephi 5:18; Alma 26:16) out of the Book of Mormon that talk about the limitations inherent in writing and expressing spiritual things. Referring back to 3 Nephi 5:8-9, where the prophet Mormon says there are other records containing the entire account of his people, President Holland said: “If that much is available out there, the least we can do is read the book that we’ve got, because there’s a lot of other good stuff coming.

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared a clip from her recent BYU–Hawaii devotional address, where she invited students to seek out holy places where the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can be found.

“You will find them in the scriptures and words of the living prophets,” Sister Wright said. “You will find them in the house of the Lord. You will find them as you serve others.”

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Sister Wright invites all to understand personal revelation and priesthood power

In a video, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared his thoughts on the gift of repentance, saying that Jesus Christ paid a terrible price to atone for the sins of all people. Responding to the often-quoted phrase “it’s never too late to repent,” he said it is more accurate to say, “It’s not too late to repent.” He urged those listening to his message to not procrastinate their repentance and to follow Church President Russell M. Nelson’s direction to repent daily, making small course corrections to improve their discipleship.

Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, discussed the Primary children’s song “Lift Up Your Voice and Sing,” which compares singing to a prayer. She asked her viewers how music and singing has brought joy and covenant-keeping into their lives.

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Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared an experience he had in college when he and his friends made a goal to share a copy of the Book of Mormon to someone each day while on a road trip.

“Praying and looking for people to receive a Book of Mormon taught me in a wonderful way that this book is indeed a testament of Jesus Christ and that we can love, share and invite others in ways that bless us and all of God’s children,” Elder Gong said.

Read how Elder Gong applied this story to BYU graduates at commencement

Brother Bradley R. Wilcox, first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, spoke in a Young Men Worldwide reel about service, sharing a story about a classmate who helped him finish a mile run.

“Service doesn’t have to be a big huge deal,” Brother Wilcox said. “Service just means you’re going to see a need and you’re going to meet that need.”

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Brother Milton Camargo, first counselor in the Sunday School general presidency, shared some of what he learned in studying King Benjamin’s final speech to the people of Nephi as recorded in the Book of Mormon. He marveled how the king, instead of focusing his final words on his own accomplishments as a leader, exhorted his people to find happiness through Jesus Christ.

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In a recent Instagram Live, Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles responded to the question “How can I find peace in my life?” He pointed to three things Jesus Christ listed in Doctrine and Covenants 19:23 that will lead one to feel peace in Him: learn of Him; study, ponder and pray about His teachings; and walk in the meekness of His Spirit by living what He taught.

Sister Kristin M. Yee, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, shared how she has witnessed the Lord bless “the one” through her ministering efforts, most recently in Suriname.

“Our Heavenly Father and our Savior truly desire to manifest Their love for us in personal ways, ways that we know and recognize that it is Them,” Sister Yee said.

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared that he is grateful for the words spoken at the April 2024 general conference by President Russell M. Nelson. Elder Cook promised members that their faith in the Savior will increase and they will receive divine guidance as they study the words of the living Prophet.

President Nelson describes the power of priesthood keys as ‘infinite and breathtaking’

In a post on Young Women Worldwide, Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women presidency, called the Book of Mormon “a gift from God” and encouraged young women to read it and “soak in the light” from within.

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles wrote about his experience accompanying President Nelson as he rededicated the Manti Utah Temple. He noted the sacrifices the original builders, like his great-grandfather Andrew, made and its consecration by faithful members keeping their covenants since its first dedication.

“May each of you who have made covenants in the house of the Lord live true to them,” Elder Rasband said. “And may we invite all to learn of God’s plan for them, enter into His holy houses and live in accordance with God’s ways.”

President Nelson, in a surprise appearance, rededicates the historic Manti Utah Temple

Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, invited young women to participate in Global Youth Service Day, April 26-28. She suggested doing simple things such as cheering up a sad friend or using the JustServe App to find specific projects in their areas.

“I truly believe that when we serve others, we are serving God,” Sister Spannaus said.

Global Youth Service Day and Month are an opportunity for young people to make a difference with JustServe

The Primary general presidency — President Susan H. Porter, Sister Amy A. Wright and Sister Tracy Y. Browning — announced the launch of Primary Worldwide, a social media account for Primary leaders to connect and share ideas for activities and learning.

“What a blessing it is to serve together with you in this sacred, noble and essential work,” President Porter said.

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Primary general presidency launches Primary Worldwide on social media

Sister Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, shared a post about her visit to Papua New Guinea where she met Relief Society women who created early learning centers for children.

“I love that as these dear Relief Society sisters accepted the invitation to offer relief within their own communities,” Sister Wright said, adding that “the Holy Ghost guided their efforts to the rising generation.”

Adding on to the story he shared in his April 2024 general conference address about how he gained a testimony of the Book of Mormon, Sunday School General President Mark L. Pace explained the change he noticed in the youth of his ward when they read the Book of Mormon themselves.

As a bishop, he began taking note of all the youth in his ward and whether they had read the Book of Mormon. He noted how each one that read it “moved to another level spiritually,” making him less worried about them because they made better decisions.

President Mark L. Pace: ‘It Is Wisdom in the Lord That We Should Have the Book of Mormon’

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Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a general conference-themed trivia game his daughter prepared, along with instructions on how to download and play it.

“It’s a wonderful way to reflect on the lessons learned from conference and to help each of us come closer to the Savior,” Elder Andersen said.

Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, spoke with two Primary children about their thoughts from Primary General President Susan H. Porter’s April 2024 general conference address where she spoke directly to children about the power of prayer.

Speaking on how they have used prayer in their own lives, one of the children, a girl named Remee, said she felt that God was with her when she prayed for her brother when he had a seizure. A boy named Mateo said he prayed for comfort when he broke his arm, and God healed him.

“When I heard that talk, I wanted to grow more in the gospel and learn more. I wanted to know more about Jesus,” Mateo said. “And I also wanted to show other people that Jesus is real and He was resurrected.”

President Susan H. Porter: ‘Pray, He Is There’

Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared part of Church President Russell M. Nelson’s April 2024 general conference address where he promised Latter-day Saints that nothing will offer them more spiritual protection and strength than regular temple worship.

“I continue to be inspired by the beautiful prophetic promises he made,” Elder Kearon said. “How grateful I am to be able to continue to learn of God’s love and plan for me as I worship in His holy houses.”

President Nelson describes the power of priesthood keys as ‘infinite and breathtaking

Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson shared a picture of her and all the other Relief Society general leaders and advisory council members, whom she described as her “dear friends.” After describing how she met some of them, she included a poetic quote from C.S Lewis, which says, in part:

“Christ, who said to the disciples, ‘Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you,’ can truly say to every group of Christian friends, ‘Ye have not chosen one another but I have chosen you for one another.’”

Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman and two members of the Young Women general advisory council announced three events coming up in the latter half of the year: an Aug. 10 music festival featuring songs from the latest “For the Strength of Youth” album, an Oct. 27 celebration of the 2024 youth theme of discipleship and an Oct. 28 reveal of the 2025 youth theme.

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Drawing on her April 2024 general conference address, Sister Andrea Munoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, shared five strengths people can develop that will help them faithfully move forward in doing good.

Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus: ‘Faithful to the End’

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, featured a service missionary named Sister Leota, highlighting how she is fulfilling her missionary purpose and what she has learned about Jesus Christ through her service.

“Nothing I do would be possible without Him,” Sister Leota said.

The Young Men general presidency — President Steven J. Lund, Brother Bradley R. Wilcox and Brother Michael T. Nelson — spoke on the upcoming 195th anniversary of the restoration of the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood to the earth.

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On Young Women Worldwide, Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman shared that after general conference she likes to choose one quote to focus on for the next six months. To remind herself of it, she will hang it on her mirror or use it as a screensaver on her phone.

“The Young Women Theme reminds us of the importance of seeking to improve each day. This is one way we can!” President Freeman said before inviting young women to share their favorite conference quote in the comments.

April 2024 general conference: Announcements, talk summaries, session highlights

The Young Men general presidency — President Steven J. Lund, Brother Bradley R. Wilcox and Brother Michael T. Nelson — recited the Aaronic Priesthood theme saying they “love it because it’s true and because we’ve made it our own.” They added that it can help young men know what to prioritize in their lives.

“As we remember the theme, it can be a source of strength and help us to be courageous as we make important decisions,” the presidency wrote.

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Sister Andrea Muñoz Spannaus, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, was joined by Young Women general advisory council member Lía Baez Vidal to offer some tips to help young people get into the habit of reading their scriptures.

1. Put your scriptures on top of your pillow to remind you to read before you go to bed.
2. Pick a topic of something you’re interested in learning about, and then pick a color to make notes for that specific topic.

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Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, posted a quote from Preach My Gospel that defines what virtue is.

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Youth join JustServe efforts around North Texas with cleanup projects, donations and more

Episode 183: April 2024 general conference — leaders emphasize the importance of temples, covenants and joy