Elder Renlund’s talk summary

Prioritize the value of things by maintaining an eternal perspective. Focusing on Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice is of the greatest value.

Because of His merits, mercy and grace, people can return to Heavenly Father and live in His presence.

Reasons for celebrating Easter are:

1. Jesus Christ conquered death, giving all the gift of resurrection. “Death is not the end, because the spirit and the body will be reunited, never again to be divided.”
2. Jesus Christ has the power and desire to save mankind from sin through repentance. “‘All’ means ‘everyone.’ If everyone, then anyone. If anyone, then even one. And if even one, then even you.”
3. Jesus Christ understands challenges, having taken on griefs, sicknesses and frailties. “Because of Jesus Christ, all that is unfair in life can and will be made right.”

Focusing on the Savior, His infinite Atonement and what He has done will bring joy and clarity. Celebrate the message of Easter every day by reflecting on the blessings that come because of Him.

“Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the Life, the Only Begotten of the Father, the Worthy Lamb who was slain, our Redeemer, our Savior, our Advocate and most assuredly the risen Lord.”

Read the full text of Elder Renlund’s talk: ‘Because of Jesus Christ’

Notable quotes

“Not all matters are of equal value, and maintaining an eternal perspective helps us prioritize the things that are of greatest value.”

“Focusing on the Savior, His infinite Atonement and what He has done for us will bring joy and clarity into our lives, no matter how many other concerns we have.”

“Celebrate the joyous message of Easter every day by reflecting every day on the blessings you receive because of Him.”

See more quotes, stories, video clips and other study helps for this talk

Who is Elder Renlund?

• Elder Dale G. Renlund was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on Oct. 3, 2015. He had been a General Authority Seventy since 2009
• He was a professor of medicine at the University of Utah and medical director of the Utah Cardiac Transplant Program.
• Elder Renlund is the son of Swedish immigrants, served a mission in Sweden from 1972 to 1974, speaks Swedish and considers the country his “other homeland.”
• He met his wife, Sister Ruth Lybbert Renlund, in his home ward in Salt Lake City. After mustering up the courage to ask her out, she said no. He was more successful when he tried again a few months later. They were married on June 16, 1977, in the Salt Lake Temple and are the parents of one daughter.

What has Elder Renlund done recently?

• He spoke in October 2025 general conference about what it means to take upon oneself the name of Christ.
• In February 2026, Elder Renlund ministered to Latter-day Saints in Romania.
• In the Church’s South America South Area in November 2025, Elder Renlund invited members to become “second-century pioneers.”

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Read more of Elder Renlund’s general conference addresses, or follow him on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X/Twitter.

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

Elder Matswagothata’s talk summary

The surname Matswagothata is from Botswana and means “getting out of a difficult situation” or someone who can do hard things. “I rejoice even more in the name of Jesus Christ, for in and through His name all who come unto Him can be saved.”

Jesus Christ remembers and knows everyone by name. “He hears, sees and knows you. He knows your joys, and He rejoices with you. He knows your sorrows, and He can succor and lift you.”

Many carry quiet burdens. Jesus Christ will heal broken hearts. The sun will rise again.

As a young stake president, one challenge followed another. Life was difficult. Then, a child said, “Every morning and every night, my parents ask us to pray for you.” This brought the feeling of being seen, loved and known by the Savior.

“Not only does the Savior know you, but He also wants you to come to know Him and His Father.”

Choosing to walk with Jesus Christ changes everything. “May I invite you to choose to remember Him and follow Him — not casually or occasionally, but deliberately and always.”

No matter one’s name, the most “eternity shaping name” anyone can receive is the sacred name of Jesus Christ.

Read the full text of Elder Matswagothata’s talk: ‘He Knows You by Name’

Notable quotes

“To the Savior, we are never lost in the crowd.”

“The question should never be ‘will the Savior walk with me?’ He will. The real question is ‘will I walk with Him?’”

“I testify that Jesus Christ restored His Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It bears His name and contains the fullness of His gospel, with ordinances and covenants that bind us to Him.”

See more quotes, stories, video clips and other study helps for this talk

Who is Elder Matswagothata?

• Elder Clement M. Matswagothata is the first stake president, first Area Seventy and first General Authority Seventy from the southern African nation of Botswana.
• He met his wife, Sister Novelty Matswagothata, at a young single adult convention in South Africa, and they would write and make phone calls from different countries before he proposed marriage.
• He worked in the automotive industry since 2004 with various car brands and held leadership positions for Barloworld Motor.
• The Matswagothatas have three daughters.

What has Elder Matswagothata done recently?

• Elder Matswagothata gave a BYU–Idaho devotional in March, and told students, “God is not silent.”
• His testimony is part of the Church News podcast episode titled “Getting To know the General Authority Seventies.”

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

Elder Teh’s talk summary

A Primary song teaches, “Follow the prophet, he knows the way.” President Dallin H. Oaks teaches to follow Jesus Christ.

“When my parents joined the Church, little did they know that they were embracing yet another set of values and traditions.” Weeding out family traditions and cultural practices that were contrary to gospel culture was difficult.

“I am so grateful that my parents exercised faith and chose to keep their covenants.”

President Oaks teaches about repentance and change. He also teaches about the Savior’s Atonement. Latter-day Saints living in Japan and Korea are examples of people being strengthened by Jesus Christ to endure their trials.

Even though a building in Hong Kong did not face east, the morning sun shone through the windows after being reflected off a taller building in front. The prophet has taught that all must hold up the light of Jesus Christ.

Some people would think God’s prophets live in the past and are not attuned to the times. “Everything I know of prophets is the opposite. They actually see into the future as watchmen on a tower.”

President Oaks, his counselors in the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are prophets, seers and revelators.

Read the full text of Elder Teh’s talk: ‘Follow the Prophet; He Knows the Way’

Notable quotes

“I am grateful for teachings received over the years that have helped me better follow the Savior.”

“When we strive to follow the Savior, He will use us to bless others. Through our example and service to others, they will feel the Savior’s love for them.”

“It is interesting to me that some people would think that God’s prophets live in the past and are not attuned to the times. Everything I know of prophets is the opposite.”

See more quotes, stories, video clips and other study helps for this talk

Who is Elder Teh?

• Elder Michael John U. Teh was born in Davao City, Philippines, to parents of Chinese ancestry. He was 3 years old when his parents were baptized.
• He and his wife, Sister Grace Teh, met when they were young and saw each other again as they were both about to start their missions. He got up the courage to call her after they returned home from serving.
• He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on March 31, 2007.
• He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration and majored in management at De La Salle University College of Saint Benilde.
• Elder and Sister Teh served as mission leaders of the Taiwan Taichung Mission. He served in the Philippines Davao Mission as a young missionary.

What has Elder Teh done recently?

• Elder Teh spoke in April 2021 general conference about coming to know the Savior.
• He is currently serving as second counselor in the Asia North Area presidency.

Read Elder Teh’s previous general conference addresses.

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

Elder Kearon’s talk summary

A call was extended to become assistant ward clerk after becoming a new convert to the Church in London. The congregation had “raised hands and smiling faces,” signalling their support. Other callings followed.

The bishop said he felt prompted to extend callings that would be stretching but not overwhelming. Each calling had purpose and power, and the bishop’s inspiration made sense.

Raising arms is part of common consent and choosing to sustain those called to serve. “We sustain each other with our prayers, our love, our patience and our faith.” Even though people might not always agree, “as we pray for them, and they for us, important bridges are built.”

Serving each other in a ward or branch provides the opportunity to become more like Jesus Christ with people who may be different. The Lord works through imperfect servants.

Some callings might be easy, others stretching. “Our service is a choice, an offering to God and a blessing.” Callings from the Lord expand faith and provide growth.

In the temple, 12-year-old Jesus said He was about His Father’s business. “He needs you, and He needs me. Life is better — everything is better — when we are about His business.”

Read the full text of Elder Kearon’s talk: ‘About His Business’

Notable quotes

“We sustain each other with our prayers, our love, our patience, and our faith.”

“I have learned over and over again that — whatever our offering — in the Lord’s economy we always come out ahead.”

“Callings from the Lord are tailor-made for our growth, as we humble ourselves, look outward and learn that, indeed, when we are in the service of our fellow beings, we are in fact in the service of our God.”

See more quotes, stories, video clips and other study helps for this talk

Who is Elder Kearon?

• Elder Patrick Kearon was ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on Dec. 7, 2023, filling a vacancy in the quorum after the death of President M. Russell Ballard. At the time of his call, Elder Kearon was serving as senior president in the Presidency of the Seventy. He was sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 3, 2010, and had served in the Presidency of the Seventy from 2017 until his call as an Apostle.
• He married his wife, Sister Jennifer Hulme Kearon, on Jan. 12, 1991, in the Oakland California Temple. They are the parents of a son, who died at 3 weeks old from a heart condition, and three daughters. Prior to being called as a general authority, he and Sister Kearon owned a communication consultancy.
• After joining the Church on Christmas Eve 1987, Elder Kearon served in numerous Church callings — Area Seventy, stake president, branch president, bishopric counselor and ward Young Men president.

What has Elder Kearon done recently?

• Elder Kearon spoke in the October 2025 general conference about new beginnings available through Jesus Christ.
• During the 2026 Temple and Family History Leadership Instruction, Elder Kearon taught to keep Christ at the center of family history.
• Elder and Sister Kearon spoke during the February 2026 Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults.
• In March 2026, Elder Kearon ministered in Taiwan, Laos, Hong Kong and Thailand.

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Read Elder Kearon’s previous general conference addresses.

Read more of Elder Kearon’s general conference addresses, or follow him on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter) and YouTube.

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

On those days, wards and branches will watch a series of short videos together and have a discussion about implementing the schedule changes.

Monday, Aug. 3, those instructional videos were released on ChurchofJesusChrist.org and in the Gospel Library app under Handbooks and Callings. The videos are also linked on Sunday.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

If the videos aren’t available in a specific language, units can use the implementation guide in their language linked at the bottom of Sunday.ChurchofJesusChrist.org to start the discussion.

Church leaders have said that these updates to the Sunday schedule are meant to help members:

• Focus more on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
• Strengthen gospel learning at home.
• Increase fellowship, belonging and community at church.

Youth fifth-Sunday instruction materials

On Sunday, Aug. 30, all youth, Primary children who will turn 12 in 2027, their parents and youth leaders are invited to gather in their wards and branches during class time to watch the new Sunday youth curriculum instructional video.

In the 23-minute video, “For the Strength of Youth Curriculum,” Young Men General President Timothy L. Farnes and Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman introduce the new curriculum and discuss what is changing and why.

Wards and branches can pause the video throughout and ask the discussion questions or watch the entire video and then have a discussion using the questions below.

• “How will we be blessed by the updated FSY guide and the new Sunday curriculum?”
• “As we follow the pattern in Doctrine and Covenants 88:122, how can we let the Holy Ghost guide what we say and how we listen so everyone feels uplifted?”
• “How will this new weekly schedule give us more opportunities to build strong relationships?”

The meeting is designed to demonstrate how to use the For the Strength of Youth guide effectively, introduce the supporting curriculum materials found in the For the Strength of Youth magazine and offer practical instruction on how youth can participate fully in weekly classes beginning Sept. 6.

Adults not attending the youth meeting will participate in a fifth-Sunday lesson under the direction of local leaders. Younger Primary children will follow their normal schedule.

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

Youth and adult Sunday School instruction materials

After sacrament meeting on Sunday, Sept. 6, youth and adults will follow the new schedule and attend Sunday School for 25 minutes. During this time, they will watch two videos and hold a discussion.

The first video, “The Sabbath and Sacrament Meeting,” features Elder David A. Bednar and Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. After watching this 11-minute video, wards and branches will discuss:

• “How can we create a sacrament meeting that focuses on spiritual renewal and growth through Jesus Christ?”

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The second video, titled “Sunday School,” is about four minutes long. It has Sunday School General President Paul V. Johnson and includes an example of a Sunday School teacher modeling how members can focus on Jesus Christ and support gospel learning at home. A discussion question for this video is:

• “How can our time together deepen understanding of the Savior and strengthen gospel learning in the home?”

And after both videos, wards and branches will discuss the ideas and questions sections 1, 2, and 4 of the implementation guide.

After Sunday School, youth will attend their classes or quorums and begin using the new curriculum. Adults will attend Relief Society or elders quorum meetings for 25 minutes.

Sunday School general president and counselor on upcoming Sunday schedule changes

Relief Society and elders quorums instruction materials

In local Relief Society and elders quorum meetings on Sept. 6, wards and branches will watch a six-and-a-half-minute video called “Relief Society and Elders Quorums,” featuring Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson and Elder Arnulfo Valenzuela of the Presidency of the Seventy.

Members will then discuss section 5 of the implementation guide and also these questions:

• “What can we do during the week to prepare for Relief Society or elders quorum?”
• “How will meeting weekly help us strengthen our fellowship with one another?”

What the Sunday second-hour changes mean for Relief Society

Supplemental videos

Besides the aforementioned instructional videos, other supplemental videos are also now available in the same place on the Church’s website, in the Gospel Library app and on Sunday.ChurchofJesusChrist.org under “Sunday Schedule Refinements Panel Discussion.”

These are a series of short panel discussions from April 2026 general conference training, featuring Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and members of general organization presidencies.

In these discussions, the leaders and general officers discuss more nuances of the changes — or refinements, as Elder Renlund calls them — and answer any questions people may have. Elder Renlund shares how the implementation of these Sunday schedule changes are inspired by the Lord and intended to help build lifelong discipleship among Church members.

Prepare for new Sunday class meeting schedule with implementation guide

Episode 296: New Sunday schedule to help build disciples of Jesus Christ

Sunday class meeting schedule adjustments announced

What to know about the Sunday second hour changes

The one-day conference on Jan. 17 included devotionals, lessons, scripture study, activities and fellowship for more than 80 members of the ward.

As Magdalena Buckner, 16, went throughout the ward building that day checking on classrooms, she saw the adults engaged in learning and in “spiritual feasting.”

“I just got so emotional because I was like, ‘This is what this is for.’ The reason we planned this activity is because we wanted to be able to give back to the adults that have given us so much love and support throughout our time as youth,” Magdalena said. “It was just really incredible to be able to see that interaction and see the spirit that the adults were feeling.”

Springfield Missouri Stake President Devon Jarvis said the stake has focused on conversion to Jesus Christ and the simple, basic principles and ordinances of the gospel.

“This activity was a wonderful example of how the Holy Ghost can work within a ward when we allow the youth to lead and testify of truth,” he said.

Planning and counseling together

The idea for the conference began during a Sunday Young Women class last August when Magdalena asked classmates to share their FSY experiences. Knowing that her mother had never attended either Especially For Youth or FSY, Magdalena and the class presidency conceived a plan to organize an FSY-type experience for adults in their ward.

In November, the young women met for several hours to begin planning at the house of the class president, Lizzy Stufflebeam, 15.

They wanted to model the conference as much as possible after a weeklong FSY, Lizzy said, but all in one day. They planned orientation, classes, devotionals, time for reflection and time for testimonies, continually meeting and counseling together.

Rylee Schmidt, 14, said they prayerfully worked to create the different companies of adults.

“We went through every single person that we knew for sure that was going to be at FSA,” Rylee said. “We made sure that everybody had someone and that no one would be left out. And then we prayed about it, and everybody all had the same answers.”

A new appreciation for FSY counselors

The young women invited adults in the stake to teach classes and other youth to be counselors, including Gabe and Charlie Mall, both 16.

Said Gabe, “It was nice to help the parents of some of the youth who have gone to FSY experience at least some of what FSY is like.”

Charlie added that at first he felt stressed “because it felt like such a high bar to emulate; to try and be these people that are always so upbeat and at the same time so here for the companies. It felt like a little bit of a challenge.”

Aisley Nelson, 16, also felt a new appreciation for all that FSY counselors do all week after serving as a ward FSA counselor for a day.

“They do a lot to make it such a great experience for all the youth that attend. At FSY, the counselors switch on and off or have a break. Now I know why, because it is a lot of work,” she said.

Aisley said her mom told her that the youth were like “stripling warriors coming to help and strengthen Antipus’ army” in the Book of Mormon.

Brooke Mead, 13, enjoyed watching the adults in her company talk to one another, make new friends and develop relationships.

“At the last testimony meeting that we were having, a lot of adults kept saying how much fun they’d had and that they hoped that it happens again and that they were sad to be leaving because it was so much fun,” Brooke said.

Supporting each other

Marshfield Ward Bishop Richard Shockley said the youth always return from their camps and conferences ready to share with the ward what they learned. They often bear their testimonies in church and feel embraced by the ward.

“I try to stress that we are a ward family. And our ward really takes that seriously,” he said. “They are so quick to support the youth in anything they do.”

The ward Young Women president, Angie Moore, said the youth were in charge of almost 100% of the For the Strength of Adults event. She saw a spirit of reverence and order throughout the day because the youth took the responsibility to prayerfully plan and invite.

Moore said many adults told her that they went to the conference to support the youth, but the youth ended up supporting them, telling her, “We really felt the love and just the blessing of what the youth had to share and the special spirit that was there.”

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Youth help their communities for Global Youth Service Day

He served a full-time mission in the Japan Fukuoka Mission and attended Utah State University, later earning an honorary doctorate of business.

He married Lesa Jean Higley on Aug. 20, 1979, in the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple, and they have four sons. Elder Stevenson was co-founder and president of Icon Health & Fitness Inc. and traveled for work around the world.

Elder Stevenson was called to lead the Japan Nagoya Mission from 2004 to 2007. After his call as a General Authority Seventy in 2008, the Stevensons moved back to Japan when Elder Stevenson served as a counselor and president of the Asia North Area, headquartered in Tokyo. Before his call to be an Apostle, he served as the Church’s presiding bishop from 2012 to 2015.

In honor of Elder Stevenson’s birthday today, here are nine of his quotes from the past year.

1. ‘The whole armour of God’

“As you strive to push new limits in deepening your conversion, you too may be subjected to inhospitable environments, severe temperatures and extreme pressure. Putting on ‘the whole armour of God’ will allow you to ‘stand against the wiles of the devil’ (Ephesians 6:11) and enhance your ability to stand firm in life’s inevitable spiritual battles.”

— Social media post, June 18, 2026

2. Happiness

“This is a work of happiness, of gladness, of joy. It is God’s plan of happiness.”

— Ministry in Pacific Area, May 15-25, 2026

3. ‘You are not alone’

“I hope to assure you, in your mission to deepen your conversion leading to [being] a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ, you too have a dedicated team deeply interested in your mission goal. I am grateful to be a part of that team with many others. The restored Church of Jesus Christ is built upon a foundation of apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone. Rest assured, beginning with Him, through a living Prophet, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve — along with dedicated file leaders, family and loved ones — you are not alone.”

— Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults, May 3, 2026

4. Heavenly Father’s most precious belongings

“In a reverent way, I wonder what it is like for a loving Heavenly Father to send His most precious belongings, His children, away from their heavenly home, knowing they must pass through challenges of mortality. I suppose His great comfort is knowing that they do not travel alone.”

— “Lost Luggage, Redeemed Souls,” April 2026 general conference

5. Walk with Him

“I believe the Lord wants us to walk with Him every day — perhaps a little less time on social media and a little more time in the scriptures. ...

“He knows everything about you, and as you walk with Him, you will be on the path that leads to peace and joy.”

— Youth devotional in Mexico City, Mexico, Feb. 15, 2026

6. Sharing His light

“The Light the World initiative is rooted in the biblical teaching of Jesus Christ, who declared, ‘I am the light of the world’ (John 8:12). His light was never meant to be admired from afar. It was meant to be shared. When we give — whether it be through a machine, a donation or even just a kind act — we become His light.”

— 2025 Light the World initiative, Nov. 30, 2025

7. Temples

“Temples are blessing the lives of millions of Heavenly Father’s children on both sides of the veil. ... [This temple was] designed to provide space for the Lord’s beautiful sacred ordinances that take place here.”

— Elko Nevada Temple dedication, Oct. 12, 2025

8. Peacemaking

“Peacemaking still begins in the most basic place — in our hearts. Then in homes and families. As we practice there, peacemaking will spread into our neighborhoods and communities.”

— “Blessed Are the Peacemakers,” October 2025 general conference

9. The Holy Ghost

“The Holy Ghost is your constant companion who assists and supports you at all times. To keep Him, you must pray and obey. He will protect you and bless you if you do your best.”

— Ministry in Africa West Area, Aug. 22-31, 2025

9 quotes from Elder Stevenson on his birthday last year

9 quotes from Elder Kearon on his birthday in July

9 quotes from Sister Dennis on her birthday in June

9 quotes by Elder Gilbert on his birthday in June

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been working for several years to address these concerns, both with its member children and in the community. And as these efforts grow, more children and their families are seeing their lives improve.

In 2018, the First Presidency approved a program to address child malnutrition among its members in developing countries. The Philippines was the first area to pilot the project, beginning in 2019. Since then, 125 stakes and districts have responded to this initiative.

The Child Nutrition Program aims to determine the status of the Church’s infants and young children up to age 5 and develop interventions to bring everyone to a healthy level. The program also aims to educate mothers and expectant mothers on proper nutrition for themselves and their children.

Through this initiative, local Church leaders can collaborate with government agencies and nongovernment organizations to educate families on the effects of malnutrition and help them implement long-term solutions.

At the screenings — held at stake centers — each child is weighed and measured. Those who are trained speak to the parents about how to include more nutritious ingredients in their children’s meals and what to look for as their children grow older.

After a child is identified as malnourished and the family creates a plan, their local leaders and ministering brothers and sisters check in with them regularly to see how things are going.

Through these regular check-ins and ongoing education about child nutrition, families can hopefully grow on their own path to self-reliance — and in turn help others in the community.

More information about improved nutrition and resources for parents and leaders can be found by going to caring.ChurchofJesusChrist.org and scrolling to the section called “Children Nutrition.”

During one screening at the Makati Philippines East Stake Center, Dr. Kristine Balictar, an OB-GYN at Bicutan Medical Center, met both expectant and new mothers.

“I feel happy participating in this activity to check the mothers to make sure they are healthy,” she said. “This is a big help to pregnant women because sometimes there are those who choose not to go to prenatal checkups due to budget constraints.”

When the Pasay Philippines Stake hosted its first screening on April 18, stake leaders, dietitians, physicians and pediatricians from public and private health clinics explained the program in a group and spent time meeting individually with parents and children.

The Facebook page for the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Services in the Philippines posted about the event, saying: “Together, you are strengthening families and building a healthier future for our children. Thank you for your remarkable service and looking forward for the next exciting phase.”

Similar sentiments were published on Jan. 24, when the Caloocan Philippines Stake held its first screening.

“This is truly a significant step forward in caring for our children and families,” the Welfare and Self-Reliance Services post said. “Here’s to healthier children and a stronger, more resilient community.”

Caring for women and children in Filipino communities

Besides its efforts to care for member children, the Church is also working with other organizations in the Philippines to help improve the well-being of women and children in the broader community. This is part of the Church’s global Caring for Women and Children initiative, as led by the Relief Society, in which the Church has donated millions of dollars and brought together other nonprofit organizations in cohorts around the world.

This initiative seeks the greatest possible impact by funding efforts to bless the lives of women and children under 5 years of age through maternal and newborn care, child nutrition efforts, immunizations and education worldwide.

On Aug. 13, 2025, the Church hosted a three-day child well-being convening workshop in Quezon City. Government leaders, health and nutrition experts and humanitarian organizations reviewed ongoing efforts and strengthened their collaboration on child nutrition and women’s health initiatives across the country.

Elder William K. Jackson, General Authority Seventy and second counselor in the Philippines Area presidency, thanked those present for working with the Church and acknowledged the remarkable work their organizations are doing around the world.

“The things people can accomplish if they put their minds to it really are amazing and outstanding,” he said.

Delegates visited project sites across the Philippines to observe screenings in person, led by Helen Keller Intl, Vitamin Angels and the Church.

On Feb. 11, the Church and Helen Keller Intl launched an effort called “Resilient Roots” to improve nutrition for a child’s first 1,000 days of life. This project — working with the municipality of Quezon — particularly focuses on community gardens to promote health, food security and self-sufficiency.

In his remarks, President Wilfredo M. Estrada Jr., first counselor in the Philippines Tuguegarao Mission presidency, said: “If you look for the needs of others, humility follows. By helping families and children, we create a better future.”

One month later, local Church leaders, Project HOPE, government officials and the health department met in Quezon City to further their joint efforts. A turnover ceremony included nutrition commodities, health equipment and community information tools aimed at strengthening maternal and child nutrition services in neighborhoods identified as having the greatest needs.

Olive Esquivias of the Quezon City Health Department expressed gratitude for the support provided by Project HOPE and the Church.

“Malnutrition continues to affect many vulnerable families,” Esquivias said. “These resources will strengthen our health center programs and support community health workers who serve on the front lines of child and maternal health.”

President Norman Tolentino, second counselor in the Quezon City Philippines Stake presidency, reflected on when Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fishes.

“Just as small offerings were multiplied to feed thousands, our combined efforts can bless many lives,” President Tolentino said. “Through compassion, cooperation and service, we can continue helping families and communities.”

‘A visionary project’: Millions blessed by Church’s global initiative collaboration

Relief Society global initiative for women and children seeks to provide the Savior’s relief

Church spent $1.58 billion — exceeding previous year’s record — in caring for those in need in 2025

Relief Society and Primary general presidents share the light of the Savior in Philippines ministry

Bishops, stake presidents, their counselors, Area Seventies and members of their families have enrolled in BYU–Pathway classes. Their participation is inspiring members throughout Nigeria to pursue higher education while strengthening their faith, reported the Church’s Africa Newsroom.

The Church teaches education is an essential part of self-reliance. BYU–Pathway Worldwide is an online higher education organization from the Church that provides globally accessible, affordable and spiritually grounded certificates and degrees.

BYU–Pathway enrollment in Nigeria has increased from fewer than 3,000 students in 2023 to more than 20,000 in 2026.

Recently, stake presidents, Area Seventies and their wives gathered at the BYU–Pathway Global Education Center in Lagos, Nigeria, to discuss how their personal participation has contributed to the growth of the program in their country.

Elder Asuquo E. Udobong, an Area Seventy and BYU–Pathway student, said leaders’ examples are a strong influence. “When I served as a bishop, many members followed my example and enrolled in BYU–Pathway. Some would jokingly say, ‘If Bishop can do it, I can do it too,’” he said.

Elder Sunday F. Oyedeji, also an Area Seventy and a BYU-Pathway student, said he and his wife encourage others to participate in the online educational program. His wife, Sister Cecilia Oyedeji, also serves as a BYU–Pathway service missionary, working to help others access educational opportunities.

Local leaders are not just influencing others in their congregations, they are also inspiring their families. President Wole Oyedeji, who serves as first counselor in the Lagos Nigeria Ikeja Stake presidency, is enrolled in BYU–Pathway alongside his wife and four daughters. His daughter, Jumoke Oyedeji, is completing an entrepreneurship certificate.

“My classes have changed my perspective on running a business,” Jumoke Oyedeji said. “They are helping me develop the skills and confidence to grow and lead my business.”

President Victor B. Ukorebi, the Church’s senior international area manager for Africa and president of the Lekki Nigeria Stake, said in the Africa Newsroom report that the growing participation of Church leaders and their families is helping establish a culture where education and discipleship go hand-in-hand.

“The example of our leaders is inspiring others to invest in their future, strengthen their faith and bless their families and communities through education.”

Episode 279: BYU–Pathway Worldwide’s Tanise Chung-Hoon on the impact of Church education

Elder Dube speaks of education, integrity and trust to BYU–Pathway Worldwide students

From January: 200 students complete BYU–Pathway Worldwide in Nigeria

From June: 338 students celebrate BYU-Pathway education milestones in East Africa

The broadcast will feature Elder Gérald Caussé of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Valérie Caussé, and will be hosted by the new Primary general presidency, explained a letter to Primary leaders and an event notice on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

The episode is titled “Friend to Friend: The Family Is of God.” This video will teach about the importance of families in God’s plan and encourages children to strengthen their families through acts of service and enjoying activities together.

This resource is meant to support parents and Primary leaders and teachers in teaching children about the gospel of Jesus Christ and may be used in Primary classes, other gatherings or at home.

The episode will feature music, messages, a craft and activities, with fun, engaging content designed for children, reports the event notice. The episode can be used at home or in Primary.

The craft for this episode will be a simple paper house that children can decorate to show the activities they do with their families. Supplies needed for this craft are paper and crayons. Children may also enjoy decorating their paper houses with stickers, items from nature or other crafting supplies.

Elder and Sister Caussé will also make crêpes as part of their message for children. Here’s the batter recipe for those who would like to make their own as they watch the video.

Ingredients

• 3 cups flour
• 7 cups whole milk
• 5 eggs
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• Butter for the pan
• Toppings as desired

Directions

1. Put the flour in a mixing bowl.
2. Add the milk one cup at a time, whisking well after each cup to gradually incorporate the flour, working from the center outward toward the sides of the bowl.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, then add the sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
4. Let the batter rest for about an hour.

How to watch the September Friend to Friend

The video will be available on the following channels:

• Gospel for Kids YouTube (English)
• El Evangelio para niños YouTube (Spanish)
• Evangelho para Crianças YouTube (Portuguese)
• L’Évangile pour les enfants YouTube (French)
• Gospel Library
• ChurchofJesusChrist.org

After the broadcast, the presentation will be available with previous Friend to Friend episodes on those YouTube channels and in the Friend to Friend collection in the Gospel Library for viewing at any time. Children can watch with their families, in Primary or individually.

The episode will be added in the following languages as they become available: American Sign Language, Bislama, Cambodian (Khmer), Cebuano, Chinese - Simplified (Mandarin), Chinese — Traditional (Cantonese and Mandarin), Danish, Dutch, Estonian, Fijian, Finnish, German, Haitian Creole, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Kiribati, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Mongolian, Norwegian, Russian, Samoan, Swedish, Tagalog, Thai, Tongan, Ukrainian and Vietnamese.

Previous Friend to Friend episodes

• Children learn about prophets in May 2026 Friend to Friend with Elder Gong, Primary general presidency
• Primary children serve others in September 2025 Friend to Friend with Elder Kearon, Primary general presidency
• Children learn about sharing Jesus’ love through service in February 2025 Friend to Friend with Elder Bednar, Primary general presidency
• Children learn how to share Jesus’ love during September 2024 Friend to Friend with President Holland, Primary general presidency
• Children learn how to follow Jesus Christ during March 2024 Friend to Friend with President Oaks, Primary general presidency
• September 2023 Friend to Friend teaches about the blessings that come from making and keeping covenants
• March 2023 Friend to Friend teaches ‘We Are God’s Children’
• ‘Share the happiness that is found on the covenant path,’ Primary leaders tell children during November 2022 Friend to Friend
• ‘Jesus always leads us to the temple’: July 2022 Friend to Friend teaches children about preparing to enter the house of the Lord
• February 2022 Friend to Friend for children teaches about baptism, the Holy Ghost and the sacrament by ‘exploring’ the covenant path
• What a story from Elder Soares’ youth taught Primary children during the February 2021 Friend to Friend

Children learn about prophets in May Friend to Friend with Elder Gong, Primary general presidency

Read more Church News stories about Primary and children

The New Testament includes Jesus Christ’s birth, life and teachings; His Atonement, Crucifixion and Resurrection; and the teachings of His apostles. The manual is now available on the Church’s website and in the Gospel Library app.

Donny Anderson, an institute teacher at the Logan Institute of Religion in Logan, Utah, joins Church News reporter Mary Richards to talk about the themes, structure and language of the New Testament in preparation for next year’s study.

Listen to this episode of the Church News podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon, Spotify, bookshelf PLUS, YouTube or wherever you get podcasts.

Transcript:

Donny Anderson: But they are dealing with multiple attacks constantly — online, social media, friends. And these attacks, you know, sometimes they’re going after sacred doctrines. There’s open deceptions, and there’s also decontextualized facts can be really harmful. You know, you take a fact in history, and with its context, it makes sense. And you remove it out of its context, and you can make great people and great things look very sinister. And they’re confronted with all of these things. But also, I notice that this very generation is very focused on Christ, I think maybe more than any generation previous.

0:40

Mary Richards: This is Mary Richards, reporter at the Church News. Welcome to the Church News podcast. Today, we are taking you on a journey of connection as we discuss news and events of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In 2027, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will study the New Testament for “Come, Follow Me” at home and at church. We will study the life and teachings of the Savior, Jesus Christ; His Atonement, Crucifixion and Resurrection. The “Come, Follow Me” manual for 2027 is online on the Church’s website and in the Gospel Library app.

To help us prepare for 2027 and what we should know and how should we be ready for this study of the New Testament, I’m joined by Donny Anderson, an instructor and teacher at the Logan Institute of Religion in Logan, Utah.

Welcome, Donny, to the Church News podcast.

Donny Anderson: Thank you. It’s great to be with you today.

1:34

Mary Richards: Tell me about teaching in Logan. How long have you been an institute teacher? And tell me about how you came about that. And Logan, that institute is really growing. It’s a really special place.

Donny Anderson: Yeah. We have a beautiful new building, and the program’s growing, and our faculty is amazing to work with. It’s a great place to be. Before institute, I taught seminary for 23 years. And the first two years were in Taber, Alberta, Canada, and then 21 years in north Utah at five different seminaries. And I’ve been at the Logan Institute now for five years.

2:09

Mary Richards: That’s wonderful. You have this experience, then, in seminary, now institute. And what would you tell our Gospel Doctrine teachers as well as our seminary and institute teachers about the New Testament and teaching from this book?

Donny Anderson: Well, I would say: Reach them quickly and deeply, especially with Sunday School. We don’t have much time. Another tip would be to follow Elder [Neal A.] Maxwell’s counsel that penetration is more important than coverage. Better to have a better experience with fewer converting experiences that sink deep than to cover less important material or information.

Also, trust the words of Jesus, and bring the students and ourselves as we study into the words of the Savior and into the actual words of scripture. There’s so much power there. We shouldn’t be afraid of that, even with the young people of the Church. Get them in the scriptures.

And finally, one piece of advice that a friend, Tyler Griffin, when he was a preservice trainer up in Cache Valley, I heard him tell somebody, he said — a prospective seminary teacher, he said — “You are using the scriptures as a diving board to get into the things that you want to do and talk about. Reverse that. Use what you want to do and say as a diving board to get the students in the scriptures and keep them in the scriptures. And yes, you have to be creative and help them be engaged so that they can discover what’s there. But get in the scriptures, and be in the scriptures with them.”

3:47

Mary Richards: I love that. Are you seeing that with the young adults, that they are engaged when you are in the scriptures with them? And tell me about the young adults today, as an institute teacher. What are they facing? What are they like, this generation?

Donny Anderson: The young adults I work with most as an institute teacher are giving, as adults, free time to gather with others to learn the gospel. So I start with an incredible group to begin with.

So, they’re amazing, but they are dealing with multiple attacks constantly — online, social media, friends. And these attacks, sometimes they’re going after sacred doctrines. There’s open deceptions, and there’s also decontextualized facts can be really harmful. You take a fact in history, and with its context, it makes sense. And you remove it out of its context, and you can make great people and great things look very sinister. And they’re confronted with all of these things. But also, I notice that this very generation is very focused on Christ, I think maybe more than any generation previous.

And I think part of that is some of the blessings that President [Russell M.] Nelson promised when the Lord corrected our use with the name of the Church. I think that this generation is more focused on Christ, and that’s powerful to see.

They also want more scripture. Even just a few years ago, in institute, “Come, Follow Me” courses were popular, but scripture courses outside of that had less demand. But that’s changed, and students want to — they still like the “Come, Follow Me” courses. They’re still very popular, but other non-“Come, Follow Me” scriptures are in more demand, and that’s a great trend to see.

And what we also notice — this isn’t new — but the young adults, they want their study to be more consistent and more deep and more personal. And they’re using institute as a tool to help them do that and to make their study more consistent.

5:50

Mary Richards: Oh, I love that. I love that, what you said. And I think too about just this morning, I was relistening to one of President Dallin H. Oaks’ talks from general conference. I’ve been trying to go back and listen to all of them. He said he’s often focusing on Jesus Christ as well. And so the young adults focusing on Christ, we have to prepare for His return. And next year we’re going to be studying beginning with His birth and His life. I’m so excited for it.

2027 ‘Come, Follow Me’ curriculum now available

We’ll begin the year right with His life and teachings in the four Gospels when we begin “Come, Follow Me” in 2027. What would you say, then, is kind of the theme of the four Gospels?

6:27

Donny Anderson: Well, for me, the biggest theme in the four Gospels, and what I love, is Jesus is revealing Himself to us. And I think there’s so many ways that He’s revealing Himself, but four key ways is He’s revealing to us His divinity, He’s revealing to us His power and what I like to call His indispensability, and He’s also revealing to us His paramount role in all of God’s dealings with His children.

6:54

Mary Richards: Yeah. Talk more about Him revealing His divinity.

Donny Anderson: Well, we, as Latter-day Saints, we know that the Godhead is made up of separate beings: the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. And that’s great knowledge to have. And since the First Vision, that’s been absolutely clear to us. But what we sometimes mistakenly do is separate Themselves so much that we compartmentalize Them in ways that might even undeify Jesus accidentally.

For instance, the phrase “Jesus is God” may make some people feel uncomfortable because some attach the word “God” only to the Father and leave behind the Holy Ghost and maybe even Jesus with that. But Jesus is Jehovah. He is our Creator. He is our God. And throughout the Gospels, Jesus is continually showing us that.

One of the stories is: Remember when friends lowered one of their friends through the roof, the man with palsy (see Luke 5:18–26). And as he comes to Jesus there, the Savior looks at him and says, “Thy sins are forgiven.” And Pharisees and some present thought that that was blasphemous, and they thought, “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And Jesus didn’t dispute that. In fact, He then looks at the man with palsy and says, “But that ye may know that the Son of Man has power to forgive sins on earth,” then He heals him of his palsy. And that was His way of saying, “Yes, I am God.” And that’s incredible.

The phrase “I am” is so important in the New Testament along with the Old Testament. And of course, “I am” refers to Jehovah. The name “Jehovah” means “He that exists” or “the existing one.” So when Jehovah tells Moses, “I am that I am,” you can look at that as “I am Jehovah, your God and your Creator.”

And so that phrase comes out often from the Savior declaring His divinity, like the Light of the World sermon. The Savior ends that with, “Before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). And they knew what He meant, and they went for rocks to stone Him right then, and He slipped away from among them. It wasn’t His time yet, of course.

When He was arrested, there was a point where those who were arresting Him, though they were armed, started to fall back in fear. And why? Because He had said to them, “Whom seek ye?” And they answered, “Jesus of Nazareth.” And then He said, “I am he” (John 18:3–9).

And that phrase happens three times in that little story, but all three times the word “he” is italicized. Now, the italics in the New Testament is not to add emphasis. Of course, it’s because the translators, from the transcripts, that word wasn’t there, but they thought that English doesn’t make as much sense without that word. So of course they added that word. So “I am he,” the word “he” is italicized. So what they were working with in translation was “I am,” and then they added “he.” But I think He was simply declaring “I am,” His divinity. And they got the message, and that’s why they showed the fear that they showed.

And one final example of Jesus showing his divinity: The beautiful story of the woman at the well, in John chapter 4. He starts one-on-one talking to her, and she’s shocked that He, a Jew, is talking to her, a Samaritan. And so she calls Him at first a Jew. And coming from a Samaritan, that’s not necessarily a great thing from a Samaritan. But then as they talk, she upgrades that maybe to “Sir,” and then from sir, He reveals that He knows some things about her. And then she realizes she’s in the presence of a holy man and calls him a “prophet.”

And in that state, she becomes spiritual and even bears her testimony. And she testifies to Jesus of the Messiah: “I know that Messias will come.” And then He responds by bearing testimony to her of the Messiah with that language, “I that speak unto thee am he” (John 4:26).

And that’s another “I am” statement: “I that speak unto thee am he.” In other words, “Not only am I your Messiah, but I am your God as well.” And then of course she goes into the town and starts testifying, “The Messiah’s here.” And then the town has that experience themselves.

11:21

Mary Richards: Yes, that now that she knows, she shares that. I love that story. He’s revealing His divinity, but He’s also revealing His power. And why is that?

Donny Anderson: As Jesus performs miracles and saves, it’s very clear that it’s important to Him, and it’s important for us, that we believe that He has the power to do that. “Believest thou that I can?” That word “can” is always a signal of power, and so it’s important that we believe that. And so, in so many of the miracles, Jesus is trying to show us that: “I have the power to save you. I have the power to help you. I have the power.”

So remember the pool of Bethesda? (See John 5:2–16.) Man impotent — im/not potent, able, so disabled for 38 years. And the Savior approaches him and asks the question, “Wilt thou be made whole?” And his answer was: “When the water stirs, there’s nobody to help me. I’m always second place or worse, for years and years.”

And so, but the Savior didn’t ask him, “Can you be healed?” And his answer was pretty much, “I can’t.” The Savior is like, “Will you be made whole?” And so he doesn’t understand. And so the Savior then gives him a commandment with three imperative words: Rise, take up thy bed and walk — which he responds.

So the Savior takes things that we can’t, or where we lack power but need, and He expands the circle of our agency to allow that. So, with the Savior’s power, things that are “cannot” become “will or will not.” And that gives us the opportunity to exercise faith even to the point of salvation.

13:08

Mary Richards: Wow. Faith and agency, I think, too. Yes, if I feel like I can’t, then I can’t, but it’s a choice for me too. I love that power. I love that He’s revealing — there’s so many miracles we see in the New Testament.

But you also used a word earlier, “indispensability.” Tell me about how Jesus is revealing His indispensability. What do you mean by that?

13:30

Donny Anderson: Many people might look at Jesus as a good alternative for some; He works for them. But Jesus is indispensable for all. Everybody needs Jesus Christ. And He’s showing us that all throughout the Gospels.

And one of the ways He’s showing us that is He takes things that we absolutely need, and He tells us, “I am that to you.” And again, more “I am” statements here, but “I am the Bread of Life,” “Living Water,” “the Light of the World,” “I am the Life,” “I am the Truth,” “I am the Way.” And more, more sacred ones. But the Savior shows us that everything we need, ultimately, He is, and we all need Him.

14:17

Mary Richards: Yeah. So, you mentioned four things. So, we have His power, His divinity, His indispensability. What was the fourth thing you mentioned He’s revealing Himself in the Gospels?

Donny Anderson: His paramount role in all of God’s dealings. So, to illustrate that, I’m going to read to you a story, and I want you to tell me if this is gibberish or if it makes sense.

Mary Richards: OK.

14:40

Donny Anderson: OK:

With the hocked gems financing him, our hero bravely defied all scornful laughter that tried to prevent his scheme. “Your eyes deceive,” he had said. “An egg, not a table, correctly typifies this unexplored planet.” Now three sturdy sisters sought proof. Forging along, sometimes through calm vastness, yet more often through turbulent peaks and valleys, days became weeks as many doubters spread fearful rumors about the edge. At last from nowhere welcome winged creatures appeared, signifying momentous success.

Did that make any sense?

15:16

Mary Richards: It felt like there were some extra words in there and other things like that that I wasn’t exactly sure what you were talking about. But tell me; I love that you’re a teacher, and you’re helping teach me right now. So, tell me about that.

Donny Anderson: So, this comes from a study in 1971 by Dooling and Lachman. And they were showing that some things are really hard for humans to make sense of without contextual keys, something to unlock it. So, the contextual key for this — by the way, only 1 out of 50 people could make any sense of that in the study — so the contextual key for that story is Christopher Columbus. So, let me read it again, and watch what’s different the second time.

Mary Richards: OK.

15:56

Donny Anderson: OK:

With the hocked gems financing him, our hero bravely defied all scornful laughter that tried to prevent his scheme. “Your eyes deceive,” he had said. “An egg, not a table, correctly typifies this unexplored planet.” Now three sturdy sisters sought proof. Forging along, sometimes through calm vastness, yet more often over turbulent peaks and valleys, days became weeks as many doubters spread fearful rumors about the edge. At last from nowhere welcome winged creatures appeared, signifying momentous success.

Mary Richards: OK.

Donny Anderson: Changes, doesn’t it?

16:29

Mary Richards: I totally see it now. It’s the story of Christopher Columbus coming across to the New World with the three ships.

Donny Anderson: And all those elements, yeah. They come alive. What’s powerful about the Old Testament is it has a contextual key. And of course, the contextual key for the Old Testament is Jesus Christ. When you read the Old Testament with the Savior in mind, looking for Him, it comes alive. And the Savior in the Gospels shows us this.

He, at one point, says, “Had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me” (John 5:46). And then He also said — and this is a famous statement, of course — “Search the scriptures; for in them [the scriptures] ye think ye have eternal life: [but] they [the scriptures] are they which testify of me” (John 5:39).

So, all of God’s dealings, Jesus Christ has a paramount role in everything that God has done with us, all the way up to Jesus Christ’s time and, of course, ever since, and it’ll always be that way.

17:28

Mary Richards: Yeah. How is all of this that we’ve been talking about, these themes in the Gospels, what does that mean for us, for Jesus Christ revealing Himself to us individually?

Donny Anderson: I think that we need to comprehend Jesus in full and continue to comprehend Him until we understand Him in full. Incomplete understandings of Jesus can be dangerous to our faith.

For instance, there’s cultural images of Jesus that aren’t really Jesus. One of those I like to refer to as “Nice Jesus.” Now, nice is a great quality, but “nice” is not a New Testament word. And nice can even be shallow or a little hollow. But “kind” and “love” are New Testament words, and they are deep and powerful. And those are words that describe Jesus. The word “kind,” in fact, has a root word “kin.” So kind, to treat people kindly, is to treat them the way we ought to treat family.

But as we read the New Testament, we’re confronted with a Jesus who is kind and loving, but He also — with all of His compassion and miracles, of course — took time to form a whip and threw over money tables and cleansed the temple that way. He also confronted wicked leaders, and He even called names. You could say He called people hypocrites, vipers, fox, blind guides and told His chief apostle at one point to “get behind me, Satan,” in a teaching moment for Peter.

But in all these instances, I don’t know that “nice” is the word to describe Jesus, but “kind” always, “loving” always. So, as we get to know Jesus most fully as He reveals Himself in the New Testament, we need to confront our discomforts till we know Him most fully. But He reveals Himself to us. We just need to let Him do that.

19:39

Mary Richards: Yeah. I thought of that phrase — when you were talking about kind and loving — “loving-kindness” in our covenants that we make with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. This will be so wonderful to study this year.

What are some other, I guess, keys that we should know for understanding the New Testament?

19:58

Donny Anderson: Well, knowing how it’s structured helps a lot, especially for those who are new to the New Testament. But this is good for all of us to know.

Of course, it starts with the Gospels, the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The first three of those Gospels are known as the Synoptics. And the word “synoptic,” “syn” means same, “optic” refers to the eyes or seeing. So the Synoptics are the Gospels that see the life of Jesus Christ in a similar way. They tell similar stories in a similar order, in similar ways. So that’s Matthew, Mark and Luke.

And of those three, Mark was the first one written, and he’s the smallest. And it appears that the other two may have used his book as a basis for theirs, which explains some of the similarity in their testimonies. By the way, when Joseph Smith did the inspired translation, he changed the word “Gospels” to “testimonies.” So the four Gospels are testimonies of Jesus Christ.

So, once you get past the Synoptics, you get to John. John’s Gospel is different. He kind of makes you a fly on the wall in many intimate situations. For instance, you hear some long sermons like the Light of the World and the Bread of Life, and some long conversations that are powerful, like Nicodemus and the woman at the well. And those are all unique to John. Also, 23% of John’s book comes from the Last Supper alone, which makes John very intimate with the final hours of the Savior’s life.

So there’s the four Gospels. And then Acts — the first book after Jesus is dead, known as the Acts of the Apostles — was written by Luke. You could call it 2 Luke, even. And with that being — it’s what the apostles did when Jesus was dead. And with those two books, Luke is actually the most prolific writer of the New Testament as far as, especially as far as, words go.

Mary Richards: Yeah, because you would think it would be Paul.

Donny Anderson: Yes.

Mary Richards: But it’s Luke.

Donny Anderson: That’s right.

Mary Richards: Yeah.

Donny Anderson: That’s right. So, Paul has the most books.

Mary Richards: Right.

21:59

Donny Anderson: I believe 13 letters. And his letters come next, right after Acts, and they’re organized into two different groups. The first group is his letters to the churches, and those are organized — that’s Romans to 2 Thessalonians — and they’re organized from biggest to smallest. And then come his letters to individuals — Timothy all the way to Philemon. And those are also organized biggest to smallest. And then after that, you have the general epistles. You have James and Peter and John and Jude. And then finally, the book of Revelation, which was also written by John.

So, if you look at the prolific writers from least to most: As far as the top five, No. 5 is Mark, and he wrote 8% of the New Testament. And then Matthew also wrote just one book, like Mark, but he wrote 13% of the New Testament. John is third, and John has five books: the Gospel, three letters and then Revelation. And he wrote one-fifth of the New Testament, with 20%.

And then Paul wrote 24% among his 13 books. And that’s assuming that he didn’t write the book of Hebrews. And then finally Luke, who wrote 28%. So, if you take just Luke and Paul, more than half the New Testament between those two writers. And if you add John in the mix, those three wrote nearly three-quarters of the New Testament.

23:27

Mary Richards: Wow. I was telling you earlier about how I wish the Old Testament and the New Testament had the dates like the Book of Mormon does in the corner, because I don’t think I fully understood that till probably seminary or institute classes, that it’s not in a timeline, per se, the New Testament, of beginning to end. It’s even just moving in the letters and epistles by longest to shortest. It’s not the order that he gave them in.

So, getting ready to study this at home and at church, what are some tips and tools you might have for members, for students, for teachers, for parents, for individuals?

24:04

Donny Anderson: OK, I’d recommend three major tools, maybe. Use multiple translations. Access Greek. That might sound really scholarly and boring, but it’s not. It’s powerful. And then learn a little bit about New Testament culture.

So, to get into those a little bit more, multiple translations, John Hilton makes a great point that when we teach, we ought to consider the reading levels of our students. If you just take America, your average American reads at an eighth grade level. And that number is skewed up because of a small percentage of really high-grade-level readers among us. And so really, 54% of Americans read below sixth grade level. So, as we’re teaching, we’ve got to keep that in mind. Now, the King James Version, 12th grade level. See the problem?

So, with Bible translations, different translations are at different reading levels. For instance, the English Standard Version — that’s the third-most used version — it’s at a 10th grade level, so a little friendlier than the King James Version. The New International Version, that’s the most widely used version in the world right now, eighth grade level. And then the New Living Translation, it’s the fourth-most used. The second, by the way, is the King James Version. But the New Living Translation is at a sixth grade level.

So, as we teach different age groups, and even adults, using these different translations has been encouraged by the Church to supplement what we do with them, and they can really help a lot.

One example of how just one word in translation, using different translations can help, is when Jesus says to us, when He says, “Come unto me” and “Take my yoke upon you,” He uses the phrase “learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:28–29). Now, in modern English, when we hear that “learn of me,” that word “of” isn’t very helpful. We have to change it to another preposition to make more sense. Is He talking about learn “about” me, or is He talking about learn “from” me when He says, “Learn of me”?

And I think most English readers will default to “about” — “Learn about me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” But if you pull up that verse, Matthew 11:29, say, on biblehub.com, it will display 40-plus different translations, and you can just skim down them, and you can see that almost every translation translates that phrase to “learn from me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” He’s asking us to be His disciple and telling us what kind of a teacher He is. And just one-word changes by using other translations can open up meaning and inspiration.

26:58

Mary Richards: Yeah. But what about Greek? Do I — you’re making me a little bit nervous when you said to learn a little bit of Greek. But we have these ways that we can — there are benefits of using side by side and looking at different ways of understanding, I guess, these words.

Donny Anderson: Yeah. Oh, by the way, if I can add something on the last idea: As you use other translations, don’t leave the King James Version behind.

Mary Richards: Yes.

27:23

Donny Anderson: Because it’s beautiful. It’s hard reading for many, but it’s beautiful. And one example of where the King James Version can shine compared to all other translations practically is like in the Golden Rule. Most modern translations use the way we normally express it, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” That comes across in so many of them. But the King James Version captures the word “should” there: “Whatsoever ye would that [others] should do to you, do ye even so to them” (Matthew 7:12).

And that raises above preferences. You know, we all have different preferences, and if I go around doing to everybody my preferences, I’m going to really annoy people with different preferences. That’s not the Golden Rule. The Golden Rule doesn’t have to do with preferences; it has to do with morality, what’s wrong and right. So, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” So, don’t leave the King James Version behind. It’s still so helpful and so beautiful in so many ways.

But getting back to the Greek. So, why Greek? Jesus and His apostles would have spoken Aramaic generally in their life, but the language of the Roman Empire at that time was a form of Greek, before the common language of the Roman Empire. So, when they wrote Jesus’ apostles and the others, they wrote Greek to an international audience to hit more people. So, going back to Greek words opens up a lot of what they meant when they wrote. So it helps a lot.

So, three words that I’d like to highlight that the Greek word can just open things up — and these are just examples; there’s so many — one of those is “fear,” and the other one is the word “hypocrite,” and the other one is “neighbor.” So, fear, the word “fear” comes from three different Greek words, all translated as “fear.” And among those three words, there’s two basic meanings. So, one of the meanings of fear is “cowardly” and “faithless,” not good. But the other meaning is “reverence” and “awe,” and that’s great, and that’s the beginning of wisdom, and it’s so good.

So, as you read it, they are all translated just as “fear” in the New Testament. So you need to discern every time you see “fear”: “Is this the good fear or the bad fear?” And it’s pretty clear almost every time, but it opens up meaning knowing that fear can mean those two different things.

Mary Richards: When we’re told to fear God.

Donny Anderson: Yes.

Mary Richards: Yes, look at that context.

29:46

Donny Anderson: Yeah, which is a great thing. And then other times, the Savior confronts us and puts fear as the antithesis of faith and destructive to it.

So, the word “hypocrite,” this is more widely known throughout the Church, but the word “hypocrite” in Greek actually means “an actor” or “a pretender.” So, modern English, we define hypocrite among each other often as somebody who says one thing and does another, but in the New Testament, it’s deeper than that. It’s one who is one thing and pretends to be something else. And so as Jesus confronts hypocrisy, that’s a really interesting thing to look at.

My favorite of those three words, though, is “neighbor.” So, you know the story of the good Samaritan?

Mary Richards: “Who is my neighbor?”

Donny Anderson: Yes.

Mary Richards: That’s what they ask.

30:29

Donny Anderson: Starting with a lawyer who asks how he can have eternal life, and Jesus says, “You’re a lawyer, you know the law, what do you say?” And he summarizes it perfectly into the two great commandments. And Jesus says, “Do this and live.” But then he asks, “And who is my neighbor?” trying to justify himself. I think he’s trying to shrink the circle of people that he’s obligated to love. Then Jesus responds with this mighty parable. And in this parable — now, in Greek, the word “neighbor” literally means “nearby.”

So, He talks about somebody that’s left half dead after getting beat up, and here comes a priest, and here comes a Levite, and both of them see the man in need and go to the other side. They distance themselves. They didn’t nearby him. And then the Samaritan comes along, sees him and went to him. He nearbys him. And then the Savior takes that noun of “neighbor” and turns it into a verb with the phrase, “Which of these three was neighbor unto him that fell among thieves?” And so, yeah, it’s another example of how meaning can just come alive as we look at the Greek and what it means.

31:45

Mary Richards: Oh, I love that. I’m getting so excited to study this again for “Come, Follow Me.” Are there any other themes you’d like to point out from the New Testament that we should be aware of?

Donny Anderson: Yeah, I think the idea of grace is a powerful thing to look at throughout the New Testament. So, something that’s interesting about grace, there’s some things that Jesus did not teach but His apostles did, and grace is actually one of those. Grace is mentioned more than 100 times by New Testament writers and zero times by Jesus. Now, that’s using the word “grace,” not that Jesus didn’t talk about grace. He taught us how we are to be saved through Him, and then His apostles talked about that relationship and labeled that “grace.”

So, grace is powerful throughout Jesus’ teachings of how to be saved through Him, then the apostles’ teachings of what grace means for us. But as we study grace, the debates, the age-old debates, in Christianity come up of, “Are we saved by grace or by some other way?” And of course, we’re saved by grace. No question about that. That’s not the real question. The real question is, “How do we access grace?”

And there’s debates about: “Is it faith or works? Is it our beliefs or our actions?” Those are false dichotomies when it comes to grace. When it comes to grace, grace is not accessed through those. Grace is accessed through the doctrine of Christ, and we need to come to know the full doctrine of Christ as Jesus taught it across all of His teachings.

And He taught us about belief and faith in Him. He taught us to repent and called us to repentance. And He taught about baptism and how sacred it is and how necessary and commissioned His apostles to baptize all nations (see Matthew 28:19–20). And then He said He would send the Holy Ghost as a gift (see John 14:16–18), and after He died, the apostles would then bestow that by the laying on of hands. And then Jesus very clearly taught that if you endure to the end, you’ll be saved (see Matthew 24:13). If you don’t, you can’t be.

So, His doctrine is rich throughout the New Testament. We need to look for it. We need to let Jesus reveal that to us. But that is the way to access grace. And that’s a powerful theme through the Gospels and all the writings after it.

34:04

Mary Richards: Yes. This has been such a beautiful conversation. I’ve learned so much from you. You are a teacher. And I’m just, again, looking forward to this next year. And this has really, I think, helped me to be more ready for that.

Our last question on the Church News podcast, we always like to give our guests the last word. And through all that you have learned and you know about the New Testament, the question would be: What do you know now?

34:35

Donny Anderson: I love the question of knowledge that you pose. I think it’s really important to be confident in knowing spiritual things, because many people will say it’s OK to believe spiritual things, but nobody can know spiritual things. But we have five senses that give us information and that provide knowledge, and I think to say that we can’t know spiritual things is to totally discount the Holy Ghost. And if you discount the Holy Ghost, there’s no gospel. The Holy Ghost is real, and the Holy Ghost is a source of knowledge, and it’s the best source because the Holy Ghost reveals to us the way things really are and leads us to all truth, and we should never be ashamed of the Holy Ghost as a source of knowledge.

So, with that, I know that — I’m going to use Russell M. Nelson’s words, and I’m going to make sure I get it right. I know that “whatever questions or problems you have, the answer is always found in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.” I love that statement, and I know that. I know that to be true. And I know that as we pay the price in the New Testament, that Jesus will reveal Himself to us.

I know that Jesus lives. I know that He’s the source of every good thing and that if we follow every good thing, it’ll also lead us to Christ. And He is my joy, He’s my Redeemer, and He is my God, and I love Him. And I share that in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

36:16

Mary Richards: Thank you for listening to the Church News podcast. I’m Church News reporter Mary Richards. I hope you learned something today about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had your faith in the Savior increase by looking through the Church News window as a living record of the Restoration. Please subscribe, rate and review this podcast so it can be accessible to more people. And if you enjoyed the messages we shared today, please share the podcast with others. Thanks to our guests and to others who made this podcast possible. Join us every week for a new episode. Find us on your favorite podcasting channels or with other news and updates about the Church on TheChurchNews.com or on the Church News app.

Episode 287: Sunday School general presidency helps individuals find the Savior and major themes in the Old Testament

Episode 252: Teaching to understand — A ‘Come, Follow Me’ Old Testament primer from institute instructor Aaron Coombs

Episode 114: The Sunday School general presidency on coming closer to Jesus Christ using the 2023 ‘Come, Follow Me’ curriculum on the New Testament

Episode 115: A historical visit to Bethlehem at the Savior’s birth, with BYU Professor Dr. Matthew Grey

The center, dedicated earlier this year, was years in the making and now connects three stakes — becoming a space for learning, connection and personal growth.

For many years, around 10-12 institute students regularly met in the Primary room in the Frankfurt meetinghouse, but they started to outgrow the space, explained Lars Wiborny, a young adult in the Frankfurt Germany Stake. Then the stake president made it possible for the YSAs to have their own space, with furniture and study spaces. Sometimes upward of 60 participants came each week.

Melissa Dalton-Bradford and Randall Bradford, who are stake advisors over the young adults, joined them and began teaching a class. Then the institute added multiple classes, and the space became crowded again.

“We always squeezed into this room, which was already quite big; bigger than originally, but still it was really crowded,” Wiborny said in a Church News call with the Bradfords. “People sat on the floor, people sat on the window ledges. We had to be creative, so we split into several classes and used other spaces of the chapel.”

Next to the meetinghouse was a former Church administration building that leadership had been trying to decide what to do with. The stake president asked if there was space inside for the young adults to meet.

Young adults and stake leaders prepared a concept plan for the area presidency, who responded, “We love the idea, but let’s make it bigger,” Wiborny said.

The area presidency proposed including young single adults from Germany’s Friedrichsdorf and Heidelberg stakes and not just institute classes, but also welfare and self-reliance, EnglishConnect, FamilySearch, BYU–Pathway Worldwide, German classes and so on.

“Then the planning started,” Wiborny said. “I’m still amazed by the Church administration here in Frankfurt, how much they really wanted to include the young adults in the planning.”

Meanwhile, institute attendance continued to grow. At the institute’s opening night in the fall, around 120 young adults came.

“It was cool to see that this number we reached before we even got the place, because it’s great to have a place to meet, but it’s really about the Spirit and about coming together and connecting, which made it possible,” Wiborny said.

The new building was dedicated on April 18. After guided tours, a meeting included music, prayers and short messages centered on community, hope and the importance of creating spaces where young people feel they belong.

Elder Jack N. Gerard, a General Authority Seventy and then the first counselor in the Church’s Europe Central Area presidency, presided over the dedication and also spoke during the event. He said institutes of religion play a vital role in helping young adults anchor their lives in Jesus Christ, build their faith and find purpose as they serve one another.

“This new institute in Frankfurt will be a place where young people feel they belong, where they come not only to study the teachings of Jesus Christ but to build friendships, strengthen character and prepare to contribute meaningfully to their families, the Church and the community around them,” he said as reported by the Church’s Europe Newsroom. “As lives are uplifted here, the influence of that goodness will naturally reach far beyond these walls.”

A public open house took place on June 27. Friends, neighbors and invited guests from other churches participated in an opening reception with a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony. Those from other faiths expressed their admiration for the building and its purpose, a Church press release explained in German.

Alea Mesterharm, a young adult from the Friedrichsdorf Germany Stake, said in the Europe Newsroom report: “It feels special to invite people into a place that is so beautiful and welcoming. I think it’s important for us to have a space where we can meet, connect and build meaningful relationships. I truly believe this new center will create that kind of environment.”

Mesterharm was also excited about having a larger space for young adults, “not just from our local congregations but also friends from the wider community.”

Frankfurt is very international, especially because of the banking industry, Dalton-Bradford said. People come from all over the world, and that is evident at the institute as well. Classes are now held in several languages in the new space, with the ability to meet in separate rooms.

“Not only is it an intersection between three different stakes, but it’s an intersection between all of these different languages and cultures,” she said.

A room in the building is available to the community as well, Bradford said. Besides classes, groups of Church members or community members can reserve the building for events like game nights, family home evening or wedding showers. Many young adults gathered to watch Germany play in the World Cup. The building is air-conditioned, which is a blessing on some of the hottest days of the summer when most places do not traditionally have air conditioning.

On Thursday nights, Elder Douglas Burgoyne and Sister Carol Burgoyne, who are senior missionaries, help make a meal for the young adults before their institute classes — and then after the classes, they serve dessert where the young adults can visit with each other.

Sister Burgoyne, who joined the Church News interview with Wiborny and the Bradfords, said they generally plan a meal for 80, and they seem to have enough even when more people come. The young adults enjoy the food and socialization, but really they come to learn the doctrine taught in their classes, she said.

Bradford added that he thinks the young adults come looking for guidance. And when they can linger and talk with each other, “it is a really important part of their life.”

Wiborny said many people stay for hours “because they really enjoy the company of each other. It really is special to connect with others who share your commitment to Jesus Christ.”

Church members and missionaries invite friends to the center, which has led to baptisms. But that’s not all, Wiborny said. He has also seen many return to Church activity because institute shows them they belong.

“Institute is important, but our goal — and we all agree on that — is always the Sunday worship is the most important thing,” he said.

The Frankfurt Institute of Religion has a slogan: “Together to Gather.” It’s not just a place to gather as young adults and friends or to gather memories and experiences, Wiborny said, but it’s also where the gathering of Israel takes place. The stake president pointed young adults to Ephesians 1:10 , which reads, “That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth, even in him.”

Wiborny is grateful as he reflects on how far they have come, from the days of 10 or 15 people to now seeing times when they exceed 100 in attendance.

“We really felt that the Lord’s hand really is behind all of this,” Wiborny said. “It really has been the Lord who has prepared ways and paths and people to make it possible.”

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Building social, spiritual belonging: See inside a YSA gathering place in Johannesburg, South Africa

Two new YSA gathering places are organized in Mexico

This latest release brings the total to 82 new hymns and songs in the new hymnbook in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French. As more new hymns are released, they can be found in the Gospel Library on the Church’s website and the Gospel Library app, and at music.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Additional hymns were released Thursday in other languages, including 22 in Armenian and Malagasy; nine in Cebuano, Indonesian, Italian, Samoan and Tongan; and 12 in German, Korean and Tagalog.

These new songs include familiar Christian hymns, some new submissions and some Latter-day Saint favorites with updated lyrics.

For example, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Fight the Good Fight,” “To God Be the Glory” and “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” are borrowed from other Christian hymnbooks — some were composed almost 200 years ago.

Meanwhile, “Peace, Peace, Be Still” and “What God Calls Us To” were past Church Music Submission merit award winners.

“Isaiah Said” was published in The Friend magazine in 1998 and helps the teachings of the Old Testament be accessible to children.

“The Miracle” includes a third verse that was written after the song by Shawna Edwards became popular. And “It’s Joyful To Live the Gospel” is a children’s song that aligns with a focus on joy in discipleship.

Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke about “Welcome to the Church of Joy” in October 2024 general conference. In response and with direction of the Church leaders, some of the new hymns and songs sound more joyful, said Steve Schank, the Church’s Hymnbook Committee chair, on a June 2025 episode of the Church News podcast.

“We hope that you’ll sing joyfully now,” Schank said.

In another episode of the Church News podcast in April, Ryan Eggett, a music manager in the Church’s Priesthood and Family Department, said sacred music has the power to bring the Spirit into homes.

“The entire time that the music is playing — and I hope we understand this — the entire time the music is playing, the gospel is being taught in your home,” he said.

Sharing the gospel can be done in a normal and natural way through hymns and songs, he explained, and sacred music increases faith in and worship of Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Schank said sacred music teaches the gospel in a way that’s easy to understand. He hopes members take to heart what the Lord said in Doctrine and Covenants 25:12 — “The song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.”

The Lord will bless people as they use sacred music in their individual lives, their homes and in their Church meetings, Schank promised.

Hanna Saffer, from Sweden, who wrote the new hymn “My Covenants,” is on the Swedish translation team for the new hymnbook. She said a Primary-age son of one of her friends told his mom he had been learning many songs in Primary but never got to sing them. Her friend brought it up in their ward council, and now the ward — and many others around Sweden — are singing more Primary songs, including the new ones, in sacrament meeting more often.

“It just felt so perfect and so right. And I realized this is exactly what the Church is on its way to doing with this new hymnbook,” Saffer told the Church News. “This is so, so right to have the children feel more included in the ward setting. And I think many adults, like I do, resonate a lot with the children’s music.”

Mateus Rangel, from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, serves as the music coordinator in his Portuguese-speaking ward in Provo, Utah. He said the new Christ-focused hymns also help Rangel select which hymns to sing on Sunday.

“All the hymns are connected to Christ, and this is our main message. This is the purpose we meet every Sunday — to increase our faith in Christ,” Rangel said in a news release on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Rangel has felt a change in his family and ward.

“I can see the impact on my family, my kids and my congregation,” he said. “People are more inspired to follow Jesus Christ as they learn [by] singing the new hymns.”

A batch of new hymns is expected to be released later this year and another batch next year in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French, meaning there will be approximately 100 hymns released early — before the full print hymnbook is projected to be launched in late 2027 in those languages. Other language translations will follow.

Read more stories about Sacred Music in the Church News

Episode 290: The power of Primary music, with Sister Kathleen F. Kelly and Ryan Eggett

Episode 243: The Church’s Hymnbook Committee chair, Steve Schank, on new hymns and joyful singing

How wards and stakes are learning about and using the new hymns

Soon, she was called to be a Sunday School teacher, and her first Sunday as she happily stood in front of the class, she asked me to answer a question. This was beyond my Spanish vocabulary at the time, but knowing how much her calling meant to her and wanting to support her, I stumbled through a response.

Over the years, I have thought of this dear woman who desired a calling and served so willingly when and where she was asked. I’ve also followed the example of my parents and my husband’s parents, who taught us both to accept assignments and invitations to speak in sacrament meeting, teach a class, take a shift at the cannery, be a minister, clean the meetinghouse, serve in Nursery or in any other capacity.

Why say yes?

Because we already said yes to Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation before we came to earth.

“Saying yes to serving in Christ’s kingdom feels like an echo of a premortal yes,” said Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency.

She wrote in a social media post that God accepts the early yes — the premortal yes, the one that gets things started. “But the latter yes, offered honestly, even with our doubts and insecurities, is the one that reveals our devotion.”

We also say yes because we are a covenant people. At baptism we covenant to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ and keep His commandments. In the house of the Lord, we covenant to keep the laws of obedience, sacrifice and consecration.

The Lord has said, “If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me” (Doctrine and Covenants 42:29), and we serve Him by serving others (see Doctrine and Covenants 59:5).

Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles was baptized into the Church in his mid-20s in London, England. A week after his baptism, the bishop extended a calling to him to be assistant ward clerk. Elder Kearon said he did not have a clue what that involved but said he would endeavor to learn. Other callings followed.

“I came to see purpose and power in each calling I received, and with hindsight, the bishop’s inspiration came to make sense to me,” Elder Kearon said in his April 2026 general conference address titled “About His Business.”

Serving one another in a ward or branch affords all the opportunity to become more like Jesus Christ — developing charity, humility, meekness, forgiveness and love, Elder Kearon said. Through visible and quiet service, the Lord works through imperfect servants.

“Life is better — everything is better — when we are about His business,” Elder Kearon said.

The natural man or woman in all of us is inclined to “excuse ourselves from serving,” explained Elder Carl B. Cook of the Presidency of the Seventy in October 2016 general conference. But we can trust that the Lord will help us as we are about His errand and His work.

Elder Cook said our callings literally come to us from God through our priesthood leaders.

“As you are set apart, you will receive a priesthood blessing to help you succeed. You will be blessed,” he said. “Every member is needed, and every member needs an opportunity to serve.”

Callings and other ways we embark in God’s work uniquely prepare us to meet the Savior, taught Elder Steven D. Shumway, General Authority Seventy, in April 2025 general conference. “As God’s kingdom expands and temples dot the earth, there is a growing need for willing souls to engage in God’s work. Selflessly serving is the very essence of Christlike discipleship.”

Sister Runia quoted from Chapter 9 of the “For the Strength of Youth” guide in her post:

“When you are willing and able, ‘Your service will help you draw closer to Him and bring you joy.’

“If you say yes, ‘You can act in the name of God when you receive an assignment or calling from someone with authority. You can also receive guidance from God for your service.’

“When you say yes, ‘Whatever the assignment is, see it as an opportunity to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and serve God’s children. As you serve, you represent Jesus Christ. Give Him your best.’”

— Mary Richards is a reporter for the Church News.

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From 2018: Church News viewpoint — Demonstrate faith — accept that calling

Remember conference — Elder Steven D. Shumway: ‘Participate To Prepare for Christ’s Return’

President Porter married Bruce D. Porter on Feb. 2, 1977, in the Washington D.C. Temple. They have four children. Elder Porter was a General Authority Seventy when he died in 2016.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Brigham Young University and worked as a lab assistant at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a part-time math teacher, a piano teacher and a volunteer with various community organizations.

In honor of President Porter’s birthday today, here are nine of her quotes from the past year.

1. God lives

“I leave with my testimony and witness that God, our Heavenly Father, lives. And as evidence of that love, He sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to show us the way home, to teach us what we need to do and then to open the door, to rent the veil in half so that we can walk through, through covenants and living His gospel, back to His presence.”

— Church News podcast, July 28, 2026

2. Never alone

“I was not alone then, and I had never been alone. I think as we go through our lives, we can remember that a loving Heavenly Father sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, who experienced all that we experience. And He will never leave us alone.”

— Church video, “Never Alone through Jesus Christ,” June 2026

3. His pure love

“On our last day, seeing the Christ the Redeemer statue with His outstretched arms over the city of Rio de Janeiro reminded me so powerfully that Jesus Christ is the ‘God of the whole earth’ (3 Nephi 11:14) whose ‘arm of mercy is extended towards’ all of God’s children (Jacob 6:5). We felt His pure love in Brazil.”

— Ministry in Brazil, June 2026

4. Children’s faith and strength

“I’m humbled by children’s faith and strength in adversity. The inherent dignity they feel when they know they are children of God gives them power and purpose.”

— Keynote address at BYU’s 36th annual International Society Conference, April 6, 2026

5. ‘Here am I, send me’

“I invite you to pray to Heavenly Father and say, like Jesus did, ‘Here am I, send me.’ And then move forward, walking with Him to bring yourselves and others to Christ.”

— "Here Am I, Send Me," April 2026 general conference

6. Listen to the Prophet

“We don’t need to worry about finding our way as we listen to President Dallin H. Oaks, who will help us draw closer to our Savior, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father.”

— Friend to Friend, May 2026

7. His life-giving light

“Because Jesus Christ came to earth and rose on the third day, triumphant over sin and death, there will be no permanent darkness at the going down of the sun. We can seek and find His life-giving light.”

— First Presidency’s Christmas Devotional, Dec. 7, 2025

8. Healing sorrow and pain

“As human beings, we experience joy, and we experience sorrow. That was a time to experience both of those — sorrow at the loss of beloved daughters, and joy as we saw people turn to one another to lift and share the love of Christ with their family members and friends. Jesus Christ is the only one who can heal all sorrow and all pain.”

— Ministry to crash survivors in Maseru, Lesotho, September 2025

9. Service, light and joy

“Just like we talked about service — it can take a few minutes, it can take longer. We can have lots of people or a few people, but it always shines Heavenly Father’s light. When we are in the service of our Heavenly Father, it brings joy.”

— Friend to Friend, Sept. 6, 2025

9 quotes from President Porter on her birthday last year

9 quotes from Elder Kearon on his birthday in July

9 quotes from Sister Dennis on her birthday in June

9 quotes by Elder Gilbert on his birthday in June

The two general officers of the Church met with the grieving Maputsoe Branch and survivors who are still recovering from their injuries.

They brought with them a card with an image of Christ holding a light and personal messages from Church President Russell M. Nelson and all nine current female general officers, according to the Church’s Africa Newsroom.

Sister Dennis told the young women that this difficult experience would deepen their compassion for others who are enduring tough times.

“You will be a light [for others] like Christ is for us,” Sister Dennis said. “You will be a light for them because you can understand what they are going through.”

She said because of Jesus Christ, there is always hope.

“You will see your loved ones again,” she said. “Because of Jesus Christ, they will be resurrected. Death is not the end. One day there will be no more death, there will be no more crying, there will be no more tears, because of our Savior, Jesus Christ.”

President Porter added that “Jesus Christ is the one who can bring healing and hope.”

Later President Porter said: “As human beings, we experience joy, and we experience sorrow. That was a time to experience both of those — sorrow at the loss of beloved daughters, and joy as we saw people turn to one another to lift and share the love of Christ with their family members and friends. Jesus Christ is the only one who can heal all sorrow and all pain.”

Survivors of deadly bus crash in Lesotho share grief — and faith — in wake of tragedy

‘A beautiful, beautiful example’

Throughout their time in the Africa South Area, President Porter and Sister Dennis met with women, youth, young adults and children, as well as government, interfaith and humanitarian leaders.

President Porter was accompanied by her son Chris Porter, and Sister Dennis was joined by her husband, Brother Jorge Dennis.

Besides Lesotho — which is a nation bordered entirely by South Africa — they spent time in South Africa and the sister islands of Réunion and Mauritius off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean.

In a news release from Africa Newsroom, President Porter praised the humility and pure love of those she met.

“You can feel God’s love for this whole continent of Africa because the people here are humble and they’re open to feel of God’s love,” she said. “They want to seek Him. And He can speak to them because they are open and want to hear His voice, want to feel His strength. And then once they feel it, they want to share it with everyone. What a beautiful, beautiful example for me.”

Primary service activities in Southern Africa

Primary children around the world are planning, inviting and serving in Primary service activities this year. While in the Africa South Area, President Porter saw some of these service activities in three countries, explained another news release from Africa Newsroom.

On the island of Mauritius, children gathered on Aug. 31 to give items such as food, water bottles, towels, pillows and socks to at-risk children through SOS Children’s Villages.

“I’m feeling happy that I can help all the kids that need food,” said Ganesca Cotte, a Primary-age child. “They were so happy.”

In Lesotho on Sept. 5, children assembled school supplies for three schools.

“I learned that even if you are small, you can do very big things,” said Sasha Tuliraba.

Then in South Africa on Sept. 7, children assembled toiletries that will be given to Door of Hope, a faith-based organization that cares for abandoned babies.

Asanda Makasi said, “I’m thankful for all the things I have in my life, and I want people to have what I have.”

President Porter said these efforts are a way to follow the second great commandment to love one’s neighbor.

“When we’re asking them to see the needs of children around them, we know the Savior gathered children, the Savior blessed children,” she said. “So when they’re doing His work of gathering food for those who are hungry, or blankets or something for children in hospitals, that’s the Savior’s work. And when they do it, they are going to feel His Spirit and His love. It’s powerful.”

Primary service initiative an important invitation and sacred opportunity for children

‘God is still God’ — Remembering the lives lost in Lesotho bus accident

Sister Dennis encourages women to trust in the Lord and walk with Him

Primary General President Susan H. Porter speaks to Latter-day Saint women on strength through humility

The broadcast built upon the two previous episodes from September 2023 and March 2023, which talked about being a “child of God” and a “child of the covenant.” Those identities — along with a disciple of Jesus Christ — have been taught by President Russell M. Nelson as being each person’s most important and enduring designations.

During the Saturday, March 9, Friend to Friend episode, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, and his wife, Sister Kristen M. Oaks, spoke with seven of their great-grandchildren who are of Primary age.

“Disciples of Jesus Christ listen to Jesus Christ,” President Oaks said. “Sometimes, He gives us a feeling, sometimes a thought, sometimes we hear His voice. President Nelson has asked us to listen to our Savior and hear Him.”

He and Sister Oaks told the children a story about President Oaks’ grandmother, Chasty Olsen, that she had told him when he was in Primary. She lived in a small town in Utah and was the oldest of her brothers and sisters. In the summertime, they played in a dry river bed near their home.

Sister Oaks said that one day when the children were playing, Chasty heard a voice saying, “Get the children out of the riverbed.” They kept playing and the voice repeated. The third time she heard the voice, Chasty obeyed and hurried the children out.

Suddenly, they heard a roaring sound and were frightened to see a great wall of water coming down the riverbed. It covered the place where they had been playing, President Oaks said.

“There had been an unusual huge rainstorm in the distant mountains that sent this wall of water down the stream. That was not expected in their dry desert town. When Chasty followed the voice, she saved all their lives.”

President and Sister Oaks talked with their great-grandchildren about how to hear the Holy Ghost and what the Holy Ghost does — warns, comforts, testifies, guides, teaches and more.

Sister Oaks said she was thankful to be able to share the story not only with the great-grandchildren but also the children of the world watching the broadcast.

“I want you to know that Jesus Christ will always be with you,” she said, adding, “And as we remember Him, and we do what is right, He’ll always be beside us.”

President Oaks then spoke to all of the Primary children around the world.

“Our Heavenly Father loves you. He has given you parents and teachers who will guide you in the right way, and He will know of your righteous, loving actions, and He will bless you for them. As His servant, I bless you throughout your life to stay on the covenant path that takes you back to our Heavenly Father.”

Following Jesus Christ

Throughout the episode — available in the Gospel Library and on YouTube — examples are shown from when the Primary general presidency interacted with children and taught lessons during recent ministerial trips around the world.

During her time in the Philippines, Primary General President Susan H. Porter asked children what they do to follow Jesus.

Some of their answers included reading “Come, Follow Me” with their families, partaking of the sacrament, praying and helping others. They spoke about how they feel guided by the Holy Ghost when they read the scriptures.

A young boy conducted a children’s devotional with President Porter. In another part of the episode from the Philippines, President Porter and several children packaged food and hygiene products in bags to give to people in need.

President Porter interviewed children about what the day was like and how they packaged the gifts. “What a special way today to follow Jesus,” she said.

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, met Louie the Toucan and his bird friend Gilbert in a meetinghouse classroom for a Tongan ward in Utah. These two puppets have been featured in previous Friend to Friend broadcasts.

Sister Wright had written on the board the verse 3 Nephi 5:13, which reads, “Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life.”

Louie and Gilbert wanted to know about what being a disciple might mean, and so throughout the broadcast, they searched the meetinghouse to find answers. They witnessed children pick up trash, reach something high up for another child and comfort a young girl who was sad.

Then, Sister Wright taught a lesson to a Primary class about when a young girl followed Jesus Christ by helping a boy during singing time.

The boy was in a wheelchair, and it was his turn to choose an action for the song “Do as I’m Doing.” He chose the action “jump,” although he physically could not jump. A young girl eagerly volunteered to come forward and jump for him as they sang. That girl was following Jesus and is a disciple of Jesus Christ, Sister Wright said.

“The Holy Ghost continues to teach me that we are never more like our Savior Jesus Christ when we do something for someone that they cannot do for themselves.”

While in Nashville, Tennessee, Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, met the Cal family in their home.

She showed them a painting of people going toward the Savior and asked the family if they saw themselves in the painting. Daisy, 7, and Declan, 4, pointed to children in the painting who looked like them. Daisy noticed that the girl in the painting recognized Jesus Christ and was beckoning others to come unto Him as well.

Said Sister Browning, “One of the ways we can become like the Savior and learn to recognize Him is by following His example.” She talked to Daisy about being baptized soon and how she will have access to the same power that her parents have as she keeps her covenants made at baptism.

“When you are baptized, you are following the example that He set when He was baptized,” Sister Browning said. “... This as a family is how we can come to learn to recognize our Savior Jesus Christ, and everyone can play a part in that.”

Music video, Easter craft and other parts of the Friend to Friend

Vignettes sprinkled throughout the episode showed bunny puppets interacting with each other in kind ways and helping and serving each other.

Children sang “I’m Trying To Be Like Jesus” in a music video interspersed with clips from the Book of Mormon and Bible videos. Scenes included children hugging family members, serving others, playing with friends, giving talks in Primary, being baptized, praying and reading scriptures.

A segment of the episode showed how to make an Easter lily flower craft by tracing a hand on white paper, cutting it out, and curling the finger shapes into petals and placing leaves around a wooden stem.

The craft instructions are also in the March Friend magazine.

How to use the Friend to Friend

The full episode or portions of it can be used at home or in Primary to help teach children about the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The episode is available in the Gospel Library or on the three Gospel for Kids YouTube channels:

• Gospel for Kids YouTube (English)
• El Evangelio para niños YouTube (Spanish)
• Evangelho para Crianças YouTube (Portuguese)

This episode will be available in Gospel Library in Albanian, ASL, Cantonese, Czech, Danish, Descriptive audio, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, and Ukrainian.

Previous episodes have taught about being a child of God, making covenants, baptism, the Holy Ghost and the sacrament. They are also available on YouTube and in the Gospel Library.

• September 2023 Friend to Friend teaches about making and keeping covenants
• March 2023 Friend to Friend teaches ‘We Are God’s Children’
• ‘Share the happiness that is found on the covenant path,’ Primary leaders tell children during November 2022 Friend to Friend
• ‘Jesus always leads us to the temple’: July 2022 Friend to Friend teaches children about preparing to enter the house of the Lord
• February 2022 Friend to Friend for children teaches about baptism, the Holy Ghost and the sacrament by ‘exploring’ the covenant path
• What a story from Elder Soares’ youth taught Primary children during the February 2021 Friend to Friend

Sacred music is also a part of the restored Church. In 1830, Emma Smith was directed to “make a selection of sacred hymns” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:11).

Now The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is preparing a new music collection called “Hymns for Home and Church” that will replace the existing hymnbook and “Children’s Songbook.” The latest group of new hymns was released on Thursday, July 23.

“When this project is completed, it will reflect how we, as Latter-day Saints, understand and worship our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ,” wrote Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the August issues of the Liahona and For the Strength of Youth magazines.

Elder Renlund has also said, “Music is a language of the Spirit and can deepen your love and appreciation for God and His Divine Son and the Restoration of the Lord’s Church in these latter days.”

The Liahona article explained that the hymns in the new hymnbook are not just lovely melodies — “they are prayers, testimonies and expressions of faith that span generations and cultures” and they teach, comfort and connect to heaven. “The songs of Zion will help unite our hearts and focus our lives in preparation for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.”

The power of music

Psalms was the songbook of Jesus Christ’s time, said Ryan Eggett, a music manager for the Church, and of all the books of scripture, the Savior quoted Psalms the most.

For example, on the cross, when Christ said, “My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34), He was quoting from Psalm 22:1. And when He said, “Father, into Thy hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46) that’s a quote from Psalm 31:5, Eggett said on the Church News podcast.

The new hymns, like the Psalms, encourage all to trust in the Savior because of His love and compassion, Elder Renlund wrote in the Liahona.

“The book of Psalms and ‘Hymns for Home and Church’ attest to the Savior’s willingness to forgive our sins and mistakes and to help us in times of need. Both books encourage us to trust in Him because of His love and compassion,” Elder Renlund said.

Elder Isaac K. Morrison, a General Authority Seventy who has worked on the new Hymnbook Committee, said the new hymn “Think a Sacred Song” teaches about the power of music and lyrics.

“Think of those words that will give you power,” he told the Church News in 2024. “And the chorus is just so amazing: ‘Your heart and mind will open / to let the spirit in, / and you will feel its comfort again.’”

Music and hymns bring people closer to the Spirit and closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, Elder Morrison said.

Meanwhile, the goal of all the new hymns is to bring joy that comes from singing, Elder Morrison said. And, as Doctrine and Covenants 90:11 says, “every man shall hear the fulness of the gospel in his own tongue, and in his own language.” Having one global hymnbook is a way of communicating God’s love to all His children everywhere in their own language, he explained.

Primary General President Susan H. Porter said there are two parts of sacrament meeting that all of us participate in together: the sacrament and singing.

“When I choose to gather with the Saints, I partake of the emblems of the Lord’s sacrifice together with the other members, and then I get to raise my voice in singing with my ward or stake family. And so singing is a very important part of our worship service. It allows us all to praise the Lord and His gospel and His Son together,” she said on the Church News podcast in 2024.

President Porter pointed out how “Hymns for Home and Church” includes both Primary songs and hymns. This creates a greater opportunity not only for Primary children to learn the hymns, but for sacrament meetings, stake conferences and other worship services to include Primary songs.

“I think we’ve all noticed over the past number of years that Primary songs, the new ones being written, are so rich in doctrine. And I think members of the Church will be so excited to be able to sing them in worship services,” she said.

And as children’s songs are sung in sacrament meeting, more children are singing and doing so joyfully, President Porter said on this week’s episode of the Church News podcast.

Church News podcast, episode 190: As Church releases 13 new hymns, leaders discuss ongoing hymnbook project and sacred music

Learning about and from the hymns

In Doctrine and Covenants 25, when the Lord talks about including music in the Church, He said, “For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart” (verse 12). Eggett pointed out that the Lord did not say “the song of the voice” or perfect pitch.

“He says, ‘If you’re singing with your heart, that’s where I find the joy,’” Eggett said.

Then the Lord said, “Yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.”

Church News podcast, episode 243: The Church’s Hymnbook Committee chair, Steve Schank, on new hymns and joyful singing

Steve Schank, Hymnbook Committee chair, told the Church News these verses show the Lord has promised blessings for those who will worship Him through sacred song.

“We go to church both to offer something and to receive something,” Schank said. “We offer a broken heart, a contrite spirit, we offer praise and humility to the Lord, and then we receive something. We receive a blessing in return.”

Sister Kathleen F. Kelly of the Primary general advisory council said learning about the background of the hymns, reading the related scriptures and pondering the questions for each hymn in the About the Hymns section of Gospel Library can make the music more meaningful.

“Sometimes in the morning, I notice when I wake up, I actually have a hymn or a Primary song in my mind. And sometimes it’s the answer to the prayer that I have been seeking. So it really blesses our lives in so many ways,” she said on an episode of the Church News podcast about Primary music.

Before Sister Kelly’s husband died a few years ago, he had dementia and aphasia and did not speak. But when he went to church, he sang the hymns.

“It was such a testimony to me that those words stay with you till the end of your life. Even when you lose your ability to speak, they’re still with you,” Sister Kelly said.

Church News podcast, episode 290: The power of Primary music, with Sister Kathleen F. Kelly and Ryan Eggett

President Porter’s mother-in-law faced dementia as well. In the advanced stages of the disease, she didn’t recognize anyone but she could still sing hymns.

“It’s been reborn to my soul that music somehow bypasses a lot of things in our minds and can go straight to our hearts,” President Porter said.

It may seem to some like the new hymnbook project is taking longer than first expected, she said, “but that’s because of the great care that’s been taken to make sure that as we unite as members of the Church, singing those songs, words and melodies that stay with us through our entire lives that have a profound effect on our testimony of the living Lord and His Son, that they be the right words with the right music.”

Learn more about Sacred Music in the Church News

Elder Kearon explained to the viewers what would be happening.

“We are with a group of Primary children who are doing their service project, and their project is to make hygiene kits for other children who have particular needs,” he said. “This is something they have been planning, and today they are packing them, and later on these will be delivered to these other children nearby.”

Their experience was featured in the Friend to Friend broadcast Saturday, Sept. 6, which included the Primary general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and two young hosts, who used songs, pictures, puppets and a craft to teach children about sharing Jesus Christ’s love through service.

Elder and Sister Kearon helped the children in loading items from the tables while engaging in conversations with them.

“How do you think the children who receive these will feel?” Elder Kearon asked.

“Happy,” the children responded at the same time.

The Friend to Friend episode is all about how children can plan, invite and serve. Primary children around the world have been invited to take part in a Primary service activity beginning this year.

As they worked together, the children spoke to Elder and Sister Kearon about how they had fun and felt joy in serving others.

Elder Kearon asked, “Do you think Jesus would be happy?”

Kris, one of the young boy participants, said “Yes, because we are doing nice things for the people who are in need.”

Sister Kearon asked, “Can you think of a time when someone has done something really kind that’s made a big difference?”

A girl named Nephira answered, “One time I had no lunch at school, and someone gave me some lunch.”

Natalie, a girl next to her, added, “The biggest sacrifice given to us was when Jesus Christ gave His life for all of us.”

At the end of the activity, Elder and Sister Kearon stood with the group of children to thank them and to deliver a message to all the children watching the broadcast.

“It has been wonderful to be with our friends here and see their service projects and to think of the children who are going to benefit from this,” Elder Kearon said. “It is a very happy thought to think of you all around the world with your service projects helping others, and we are just sure that our Savior, Jesus Christ, is very happy.”

A candle craft and being a light unto others

Louie the Toucan, his bird friend Gilbert and child hosts Victor Batista and Millie Ferreira were back from previous Friend to Friend episodes to teach more about how to plan, invite and serve.

In a segment with the Primary general presidency, Victor and Millie made a candle craft to remind them to be a light to others when they serve them. The instructions are also in the September Friend magazine.

They drew on paper the service they want to do or have already done.

Primary General President Susan H. Porter drew two children with happy expressions because one was serving the other. She spoke about traveling on assignment to Cambodia, Thailand and Taiwan recently and how, in each country, she did some service with Primary children.

In Cambodia, the children put together special kits of fun things to do for children who were in the hospital and then delivered the bags to the children.

“They were so happy,” President Porter said. “They opened it up, pulled it out — it was so joyful. And then we asked the children, ‘How did you feel when you were doing it?’ And one child said, ‘I felt so happy.’ And another one said, ‘I felt peaceful.’ One girl said, ‘I felt energetic,’ and she put up her arms. We all smiled.”

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, drew many hearts all over her paper. She said, in the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin teaches that “when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).

“And that reminds us that when we serve others, we are also serving Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. And I think that’s why it feels so good, because our Heavenly Father and our Savior want us to feel good whenever we are kind or do service to one another,” Sister Wright said.

The hosts and general presidency then rolled up their own papers with the drawing on the outside and taped it together. Then, they cut out a circle to make the flame of the candle.

Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, said, “The light we shine comes from when we do good things and others get to see that we are serving God’s children.” She quoted the words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Each candle was a different size, shape and color, noted President Porter.

“Just like we talked about service — it can take a few minutes, it can take longer. We can have lots of people or a few people, but it always shines Heavenly Father’s light,” she said. “When we are in the service of our Heavenly Father, it brings joy.”

Said Sister Wright, “Thank you for following our Savior Jesus Christ as you serve one another.”

And Sister Browning said, “Remember to keep shining the Light of Christ wherever you are every day.”

Primary children serving others around the world

A music video featured children singing “This Little Light of Mine” in English, French and Spanish. The song is now in the new global hymnbook, “Hymns — For Home and Church.” Throughout the video were images of Jesus Christ ministering to others as well as videos of children serving others in their communities.

The Friend to Friend episode also showed videos and pictures from Primary children around the world serving others in projects and activities this year.

For example, Primary children in New Zealand helped in a garden to share food with others. In Texas, children made birthday gifts for children in foster care. Children in Mexico filmed messages and songs for others who were too sick to go to church. In Alabama, children held a car wash and used the funds to buy baby care kits and beds for kids who needed them.

Millie said, “People all over the world have been helped by these service projects.”

Victor added, “We hope you have fun serving with your Primary too.”

How to use the September 2025 Friend to Friend

The episode is available to watch on ChurchofJesusChrist.org or on the three Gospel for Kids YouTube channels:

• Gospel for Kids YouTube (English)
• El Evangelio para niños YouTube (Spanish)
• Evangelho para Crianças YouTube (Portuguese)

This episode will be available in Gospel Library in Albanian, American Sign Language, Cantonese, Cebuano, Chinese, Czech, English, Danish, Dutch, European, Finnish, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Samoan, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Swedish, Tagalog, Tongan and Ukrainian.

The full episode or portions can be used at home or in Primary to help teach children about their capacity to share the love of Jesus with others.

Read more Church News coverage of Primary service activities

Previous Friend to Friend episodes

Previous episodes have taught about the temple, the covenant path, baptism, the Holy Ghost, the sacrament and what it means to be a child of God. They are also available on YouTube and in the Gospel Library.

• Children learn about sharing Jesus’ love through service in February Friend to Friend with Elder Bednar, Primary general presidency
• Children learn how to share Jesus’ love during September 2024 Friend to Friend with President Holland, Primary general presidency
• Children learn how to follow Jesus Christ during March 2024 Friend to Friend with President Oaks, Primary general presidency
• September 2023 Friend to Friend teaches about the blessings that come from making and keeping covenants
• March 2023 Friend to Friend teaches ‘We Are God’s Children’
• ‘Share the happiness that is found on the covenant path,’ Primary leaders tell children during November 2022 Friend to Friend
• ‘Jesus always leads us to the temple’: July 2022 Friend to Friend teaches children about preparing to enter the house of the Lord
• February 2022 Friend to Friend for children teaches about baptism, the Holy Ghost and the sacrament by ‘exploring’ the covenant path
• What a story from Elder Soares’ youth taught Primary children during the February 2021 Friend to Friend

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

Church News podcast, episode 227: Primary general presidency invites children to share Jesus’ love through service

Primaries worldwide invited to organize service activities beginning in 2025

The Valiant-age class counseled with Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, before and after their service activity.

“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.”

Their experience was featured in the Friend to Friend broadcast Saturday, Feb. 15, which included the Primary general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and two young hosts, who used songs, pictures, puppets and a craft to teach children about service.

Welcome and invitation from the Primary general presidency

The episode began with the Primary general presidency — President Susan H. Porter; Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor; and Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor — welcoming children and friends from around the world.

“We love you,” said President Porter, explaining that those watching would learn about “the blessings that can come as we share the love of Jesus through service.”

Said Sister Wright: “We are so happy you are joining today. It is wonderful to be here with you as we explore how we can share the love of Jesus Christ through service.”

Sister Browning spoke about how beginning this year, every Primary in the Church is invited to plan a service activity. “You may be invited to help plan it,” she said. “You can invite your friends and neighbors. As you watch, think about what needs you see in your neighborhood that can bless the lives of children just like you.”

Throughout the episode, bird puppets named Louie and Gilbert — returning from previous Friend to Friend events — interacted with child hosts Millie Ferreira and Victor Batista as they also learned how to plan, invite and serve.

Counseling together and making a plan

The first time the Valiant class met with Elder Bednar and Sister Bednar, they spoke about service and what they have done for others. The children talked about helping others at school with their homework, helping their parents clean the house and teaching other children how to play soccer.

“What do you like about serving?” Elder Bednar asked.

Thiago Reza responded: “I like helping people understand and know that we care — that I care about them.”

Others in the class talked about how they feel happy when they serve other people and see their smiles because they like serving the Lord and being helpful.

Batgerel “Batuka” Bat-Orkhon said, “I like serving because I feel good inside that I helped someone and I feel proud that I made them happy.”

To that, Sister Bednar responded, “It is a good thing to feel, isn’t it?”

Elder Bednar asked the class to identify a group service project that they could then plan and organize together. He invited them to work with their Primary teacher to identify the right people they could try to help.

“It is wonderful to serve individuals,” he said. “It is also incredible to organize and work together to serve other people.”

Sister Bednar told them how much she loved the simple examples they gave of how they liked to serve others. “I hope that you will always pray for the gift of the Holy Ghost to help you see the needs of other people.”

Inviting and serving

A video montage showed the Primary class making invitations for their service activity and handing them to the young men and young women in their ward as well as friends, family and neighbors. The children’s planned service included cleaning a local park and collecting school supplies for their elementary school.

On the day of the service activity, everyone gathered with rakes and garbage bags at a park to get to work. The children worked alongside youth and adults, and Louie and Gilbert were there as well.

Haolin Yang from the Primary class said, “When all these people showed up, it made me feel good that everyone will be joining to help clean up the park that helps the community.”

Batuka said, “It felt good because a lot of people cared about the park and they liked serving.”

The children then were shown inside their meetinghouse drawing pictures and cards and putting school supplies into bags. Then they loaded vehicles with the supplies.

Service as disciples of Jesus Christ

When the children met again with Elder Bednar and Sister Bednar, they talked about how they planned together. The children each gave ideas and discussed what the community’s needs were and what tools they had available to them.

When Elder Bednar asked them about what they learned, Lucy Howcroft said service “could be something simple and still be fun.”

The children mentioned how they learned things from the others who showed up to help and how they felt good about what they were doing. They also joked about how having donuts and hot chocolate was a fun part of the activity.

Thiago said, “I know that God thanks us because we did something good to help His children.”

To which Elder Bednar replied: “When you are serving other people, you are serving God (see Mosiah 2:17). Sometimes the best reward of serving someone else is that they do not know who did it. You are not serving so that people will tell you that you are wonderful. You serve because that is what Jesus would do.”

While they may not have received any praise or applause for their service, Batuka said that they were actually getting credit because other people could enjoy the cleaner park.

Sister Bednar bore her testimony to the children at the end of their conversation. “I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, and I know that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us, that Jesus truly is our Savior and our Redeemer, and He served just like you do.”

Elder Bednar closed with his witness that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

“I know He is our Savior and our Redeemer. I witness that He lives, He is resurrected. And I witness that He and His Father appeared to Joseph Smith, and that was the beginning of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ and His Church to the earth again. And the purpose of that Restoration is so that we can learn from and follow Jesus and become more like Him.”

He told the children that he loved them, and he thanked them for what they helped everyone learn through their service project.

A music video and paper craft

A music video in the Friend to Friend episode featured children singing “Holding Hands Around the World” in several languages.

The singing began with images of one or two children at a time, then it grew to include several. In the end, the video merged with the children’s choir singing that song during the October 2024 general conference.

Then, Millie and Victor taught the Primary general presidency how to make a paper craft, as they talked about what they learned from Elder and Sister Bednar’s testimonies and the children’s experiences with the service activity.

Sister Wright said that the wonderful thing about service is that it goes both ways as far as the blessings are concerned. “We bless the lives of others that we serve, and then our lives are blessed in return.”

Added Sister Browning, “I think our Savior is always happy and pleased with us when we choose to serve others.”

When they were done folding, tracing and cutting the paper, they held them up to show the shape of a chain of people holding hands.

President Porter said it was just like the song they had sung about children holding hands all around the world.

“I love knowing that we are all children of God and He loves each one of us and He wants us to help one another,” she said. “I know that when we invite friends to gather to serve others, we will feel the Spirit because we know that we are doing Heavenly Father’s work. We are following Jesus’ example of bringing His love and His joy to others.”

How to use the February 2025 Friend to Friend

The episode is available to watch on ChurchofJesusChrist.org or on the three Gospel for Kids YouTube channels:

• Gospel for Kids YouTube (English)
• El Evangelio para niños YouTube (Spanish)
• Evangelho para Crianças YouTube (Portuguese)

This episode will be available in Gospel Library in Albanian, American Sign Language, Cantonese, Cebuano, Chinese, Czech, English, Danish, Dutch, European Portuguese, Finnish, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Samoan, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Swedish, Tagalog, Tongan and Ukrainian.

The full episode or portions can be used at home or in Primary to help teach children about their capacity to share the love of Jesus with others.

Previous Friend to Friend episodes

Previous episodes have taught about the temple, the covenant path, baptism, the Holy Ghost, the sacrament and what it means to be a child of God. They are also available on YouTube and in the Gospel Library.

• Children learn how to share Jesus’ love during September 2024 Friend to Friend with President Holland, Primary general presidency
• Children learn how to follow Jesus Christ during March 2024 Friend to Friend with President Oaks, Primary general presidency
• September 2023 Friend to Friend teaches about the blessings that come from making and keeping covenants
• March 2023 Friend to Friend teaches ‘We Are God’s Children’
• ‘Share the happiness that is found on the covenant path,’ Primary leaders tell children during November 2022 Friend to Friend
• ‘Jesus always leads us to the temple’: July 2022 Friend to Friend teaches children about preparing to enter the house of the Lord
• February 2022 Friend to Friend for children teaches about baptism, the Holy Ghost and the sacrament by ‘exploring’ the covenant path
• What a story from Elder Soares’ youth taught Primary children during the February 2021 Friend to Friend

Children learn how to share Jesus’ love during September 2024 Friend to Friend with President Holland, Primary general presidency

Church News podcast, episode 227: Primary general presidency invites children to share Jesus' love through service

Primaries worldwide invited to organize service activities beginning in 2025