Read more conference study helps here

About this talk

• “Best Days and Worst Days”
• President Emily Belle Freeman | Young Women general president
• Sunday morning session of April 2026 general conference.
• Theme: Because of Jesus Christ, best days are ahead, no matter how bad things are right now.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of President Freeman’s message here.

Outline

• While planning their daughter’s wedding, President Freeman and her husband received news that his cancer had returned.
• • Text | Video
• Mortality is a proving ground that is designed for spiritual growth, on best days and worst.
• • Text | Video

Eternal truths

• Even the apostle Peter had best days, like when the Spirit confirmed to him eternal truths. He also had worst days, like when he learned that Jesus would die.
• • Text | Video
• Peter’s story teaches that testimonies are built over time, not in a single moment.
• • Text | Video

Invitations

• Peter’s experience of walking on water and subsequently starting to sink demonstrates that the best days can turn into the worst days in a matter of moments.
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ will be within reaching distance to those who accept His invitations, on both best days and worst days.
• • Text | Video

Promised blessings

• On the night of Christ’s arrest, Peter denied knowing Him. President Freeman wonders if the Lord was remembering the encouraging words that He had spoken to Peter earlier that day.
• • Text | Video
• After Christ’s death and Resurrection, He tells Peter to “feed my sheep.” Peter had some worst days, but ultimately his faith did not fail him. The Lord’s promises will be fulfilled, especially when all seems lost.
• • Text | Video

For the strength of youth

• Peter’s best and worst days shaped him into who the Lord needed him to be.
• • Text | Video
• The “For the Strength of Youth” guide can help individuals find strength in Christ through eternal truths, invitations and promised blessings.
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ knows about best days and worst days. No matter how bad things are in someone’s life, Jesus Christ will be a strength to them.
• • Text | Video

Reflection questions

What eternal truths, invitations or promised blessings have helped you find strength in Christ?

How can you best maintain your faith during best times and worst?

What lessons have you felt God trying to teach you?

How can you better share eternal truths with others around you?

What improvements can you make in your life in order to readily accept Christ’s invitations?

Speaker quotes

• “This is mortality. A proving ground. A place designed for growth. I have learned that God allows mortality to do its work in us — and that includes both best days and worst days.”
• • Text | Video
• “Sometimes we may wonder if the Lord’s promises will truly be fulfilled in us — especially when all seems lost. Especially on our worst days. Peter’s story reminds us that they will.”
• • Text | Video
• “Because of Him, no matter how bad things are right now, your best days are ahead.”
• • Text | Video

Reference scriptures

• “He saith unto them, but whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.”
• • Matthew 16:15–17
• “And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.”
• • Matthew 14:28–29
• “He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”
• • John 21:17

Invitations and promises

• “Our understanding of eternal truth is not forged in a single moment — testimony is built over time, day after day, both best days and worst.”
• • Text | Video
• “He was in the water — with Peter. Within reaching distance. As you accept the Lord’s invitations, on both your best days and your worst, the same will be true for you.”
• • Text | Video
• “As you spend time in this guide, you will begin to realize that this is not just a guide for standards; this is a guide for strength.”
• • Text | Video

Stories

• In Matthew 16:13–17, Peter recognizes that Jesus is the Christ. Only a few verses later, Peter denies that Christ would later die (see verses 21–23). Peter’s story teaches that understanding of eternal truth is built day after day, both best days and worst.
• • Text | Video
• In Matthew 14:28–31, Peter walked on water but then began to sink when he became afraid. When Peter accepted the invitation that seemed too big, Jesus was within reaching distance.
• • Text | Video
• On the night of Christ’s arrest, Peter denied knowing Him. After His Resurrection, He invited Peter to feed His sheep. Peter’s story reminds that the Lord’s promises will be fulfilled, even when all seems lost.
• • Text | Video

From the footnotes

• 10. Joseph Smith experienced something similar when he feared man more than God. On that day he was reminded of the importance of continuing in faith and then received these words from the Lord: “Behold, thou art Joseph, and thou wast chosen to do the work of the Lord. … Repent of that which thou hast done … [;] thou art still chosen, and art again called to the work” (Doctrine and Covenants 3:9–10).
• 11. Scripture tells us that Peter was a skilled fisherman, but we don’t read anywhere that he was trained as a shepherd. The Lord was calling him to a greater work, inviting Peter to become who the Lord knew he was capable of becoming.

Additional resources

• Related image: “Christ Walking on the Water”
• Related video: “Jesus Walking on Water”
• Related hymn: No. 112, “Savior, Redeemer of My Soul”

Recent conference talks on enduring through adversity

• President Henry B. Eyring: “Prayers for Peace” (April 2026)
• President D. Todd Christofferson: “Look to God and Live” (October 2025)
• Elder Gérald Caussé: “Compensating Blessings” (April 2025)

Who is President Freeman?

• President Emily Belle Freeman was sustained as the Young Women general president on April 1, 2023. She has written more than a dozen books and spoken at a variety of conferences, workshops and gatherings. She taught for many years in the Church Educational System.

Remember conference — President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: ‘Encounter at the Empty Tomb’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

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

Read more conference study helps here

About this talk

• “Encounter at the Empty Tomb”
• President Dieter F. Uchtdorf | Acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
• Sunday morning session of April 2026 general conference.
• Theme: Becoming a witness of Jesus Christ and His Resurrection means gaining and sharing a personal testimony.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of President Uchtdorf’s message here.

Outline

“They … came to the tomb”

• President Uchtdorf can’t imagine the grief of the small group of women who visited Christ’s tomb. The women could have been wondering why the Savior had to die.
• • Text | Video
• Christ’s death brought new birth through resurrection.
• • Text | Video
• Mary and her companions went to the tomb because of their love for the Savior.
• • Text | Video
• When they arrived at the tomb, they found it empty. This experience changed them and the world forever.
• • Text | Video

He lives

• The empty tomb is a bold message that Jesus Christ is not just a historical figure but a living being.
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ has an active influence in His Church and the personal lives of all who follow Him. All obstacles can be overcome with His strength.
• • Text | Video

The first witnesses

• The heavenly messengers at the tomb gave Mary and her companions two invitations: to come and see and to tell His disciples that He is risen.
• • Text | Video
• The Savior invited His disciples to preach His gospel to all, and that invitation continues today.
• • Text | Video

An invitation

• Like Mary and her companions, everyone must learn for themselves the truth of Christ’s Resurrection.
• • Text | Video
• After experiencing the reality of what the Resurrection means to them, disciples are to share that witness with others.
• • Text | Video
• The Savior has entrusted everyone with spiritual experiences and knowledge.
• • Text | Video
• Individuals can follow Christ’s invitation to spread His gospel by serving full-time missions and by becoming lifelong missionaries.
• • Text | Video
• Living the gospel of Jesus Christ through consistent acts of love and service demonstrates one’s devotion to Christ more than words ever could.
• • Text | Video
• Stepping forward with faith and committing fully to the gospel will bring understanding and healing.
• • Text | Video

A disciple’s journey

• Jesus Christ is the light that leads individuals, through sorrow or joy, back to God.
• • Text | Video
• Those who desire to encounter Christ must make their way to the empty tomb to learn for themselves that He is risen. Accepting that He lives will allow the Light of Christ to bloom from within.
• • Text | Video
• Becoming a witness of Jesus Christ does not require physically seeing the empty tomb; it is gaining and sharing a personal testimony.
• • Text | Video
• President Uchtdorf has gained his own witness of Jesus Christ. That witness has made all the difference in his life and will for the lives of those who also gain their own witness.
• • Text | Video

Reflection questions

How have you seen Christ actively influence your life?

How does the knowledge of the Resurrection bring you peace?

In what ways can you act as a witness of Jesus Christ?

How can you “encounter the empty tomb”?

What difference has your personal testimony made in your life?

Speaker quotes

• “The message of the risen Christ is that, with His strength, all obstacles can be overcome. Because Jesus Christ conquered death, surely He can conquer any danger, confusion or doubt we face.”
• • Text | Video
• “We must encounter the empty tomb, experience the reality of what it means and, in turn, share that witness with others.”
• • Text | Video
• “Jesus Christ and His restored gospel are our strength. Jesus Christ is our ‘guide for making choices’ and will bring joy and happiness in this life and extend into the eternities.”
• • Text | Video

Reference scriptures

• “They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel … [and] said to them, ‘Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.”
• • Luke 24:2-6, English Standard Version
• “And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
• • Matthew 28:5, 6
• “And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.”
• • Mosiah 5:2

Invitations and promises

• “He lives and is an active, ongoing influence in His Church and in the personal lives of those who follow Him. He guides, comforts, listens, calms our fears and wipes away our tears.”
• • Text | Video
• “Even when things seem dark, we step forward in faith, with courage and humility, and walk toward the Savior’s light. As we do so, eventually the dawn of understanding will surely reward our faith. Like the warmth and light of the morning sun, we will feel the love and healing of the Son of God. Darkness will give way to eternal light.”
• • Text | Video
• “He lives. That testimony has made all the difference in my life. That encounter at the tomb will do the same for all who earnestly seek Him. It will make a difference to you.”
• • Text | Video

From the footnotes

• 6. As the Lord said, “My works are without end, and also my words, for they never cease” (Moses 1:4; emphasis added).
• 20. As we ponder these questions and act on this invitation, we could consider the many resources available today. We have precious access to the scriptures, including the Book of Mormon. We have the cherished words of latter-day prophets. Our Heavenly Father speaks through the Holy Ghost and has freely offered bountiful resources of inspiration and guidance. He invites us to enter His holy house to participate in sacred ordinances, make everlasting covenants and walk with Him during our sojourn in this life.

Additional resources

• Related image: “Garden Tomb”
• Related video: “Jesus Is Resurrected”
• Related hymn: No. 136, “I Know That My Redeemer Lives”

Recent conference talks on the Resurrection of Christ

• Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “He Is Risen” (April 2026)
• Elder Gerrit W. Gong: “’Tis Eastertide: No One Walks Alone” (April 2026)
• President Dallin H. Oaks: “Alive in Christ” (April 2026)

Who is President Uchtdorf?

• President Dieter F. Uchtdorf was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 2004 and was set apart as acting president of the quorum on Jan. 8, 2026. Born in Czechoslovakia, he was a pilot, captain and corporate executive for the German airline Lufthansa from 1965 to 1996.

Remember conference — Elder Ulisses Soares: ‘Jesus Christ — the True Vine’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

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

Also, Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles dedicated the Bacolod Philippines Temple on May 31. Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ministered in four Pacific nations and territories — Australia, New Caledonia, Samoa and American Samoa.

Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke to missionaries at the Provo Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah. While ministering in the Church’s Africa South Area, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared a Botswana expression and its connection to ministering to others.

The Church News reported on Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman’s recent ministry to youth in Puerto Rico.

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, spoke to students during an Ensign College devotional about the Savior’s invitation to “Behold.” Sister Tracy Y. Browning, second counselor in the Primary general presidency, addressed attendees at the “Onward, Ever Onward!" United States Northeast Area Women’s Conference.

In temple news this week, information on how to make reservations for the “Inside a Temple” tour on Temple Square was released and the Naga Philippines Temple groundbreaking date was announced.

In this week’s Church News podcast, Michael Hall discussed the testimony-refining process of creating sculptures of the Savior’s mortal life and of Joseph Smith’s First Vision.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. President Uchtdorf meets with president of Germany, dedicates 2 stake centers

President Uchtdorf met with the president of Germany on Thursday, May 28, and dedicated new stake centers in Austria and the Czech Republic on successive Sundays — May 24 for the Salzburg Austria Stake and May 31 for the Prague Czech Republic Stake.

Read more about President Uchtdorf’s ministry in Europe here.

How 26 young adults in Europe combined faith and civic service

Church leaders welcome representatives from Czech Republic, Kazakhstan

2. Honoring area pioneers and looking to the blessings of the temple, Elder Andersen dedicates the Bacolod Philippines Temple

Elder Andersen dedicated the Bacolod Philippines Temple on Sunday, May 31 — the sixth house of the Lord in the Philippines and the third dedicated in the country this year.

“There’s been a great heritage of faithfulness and devotion to the restored gospel,” said Elder Andersen.

Read more about the Bacolod Philippines Temple dedication here.

Read the dedicatory prayer here.

‘Everything is possible now because of the temple’: Philippine members prepare for dedication of country’s 6th temple — and 3rd this year

Elder Renlund dedicates Davao Philippines Temple, a place of God’s power and strength

3. Elder Stevenson testifies of God’s love, joy of the gospel during 4-nation ministry in Pacific

During a 10-day ministry, Elder Stevenson visited with members in four Pacific nations and territories.

Elder Stevenson delivered a universal message testifying of God’s love for each of His children throughout Australia, New Caledonia, Samoa and American Samoa.

Read more about Elder Stevenson’s ministry in the Pacific here.

Members of First Presidency meet with prime minister of Samoa

How two girls lost in the Samoan jungle led to one man’s conversion

4. Elder Renlund offers 5 ‘cairns’ to guide missionaries ‘confidently and joyfully’ through their mission

Elder Renlund spoke to missionaries at the Provo Missionary Training Center and compared hiking to missionary work, noting how cairns can lead to “remarkable vistas" and lifelong discipleship of Christ.

As cairns — intentionally placed piles of stones — are used to guide hikers, Elder Renlund discussed five metaphorical cairns to assist missionaries in serving their missions “confidently and joyfully.”

Read more about Elder Renlund’s MTC devotional here.

Elder Renlund teaches where infinity fits within eternity

2025: ‘Why celebrate Easter?’ Elder Renlund offers 3 reasons in Provo MTC devotional

5. Elder Gong sees ‘pula a e ne’ and invokes blessings on countries in Church’s Africa South Area

While in Botswana, Elder Gong learned the phrase “Pula a e ne” or “Let it rain” and shared a the expression and its connection to ministering to others with members, missionaries and leaders. “Rain falls on all of us, as it says in scripture (see Matthew 5:45). When blessings from heaven come to us, it is meant to be for everyone,” he said.

Throughout his nine-day ministry — including in South Africa, Angola, Mozambique and Madagascar — Elder Gong encouraged members, missionaries and friends of the Church to turn to the Savior and seek the blessings of the temple

Read more about Elder Gong’s time in the Church’s Africa South Area here.

Elder Gong dedicates first house of the Lord in Zimbabwe

At summit in Athens, Elder Gong shares soaring hopes, hard questions for AI systems

6. President Freeman sees how youth in Puerto Rico ‘walk with Him’

President Freeman saw how much the youth of the Church are striving to follow Jesus Christ during a ministry throughout the Church’s Caribbean Area. She visited Caguas, Guaynabo and Toa Baja in Puerto Rico, speaking to local Church leaders, missionaries, members and friends of the Church.

“As I have spent time here with the youth in all of these islands, I have seen how they walk with Him,” she said.

Read about President Freeman’s ministry in Puerto Rico here.

Church News podcast, episode 278: The 2026 youth theme ‘Walk with me’ with President Freeman and President Farnes

President Emily Belle Freeman at April 2026 general conference: ‘Best Days and Worst Days’

7. Sister Wright invites Ensign College students to pay attention to the Savior’s invitations to ‘Behold’

During an Ensign College devotional, Sister Wright shared five of the Savior’s invitations to “behold,” highlighting the associated blessings.

“How grateful I am to know that we worship a compensatory God who heals, restores, gathers, sanctifies, exalts and fixes things that are broken,” Sister Wright testified.

Read more Sister Wright’s devotional at Ensign College here.

First-ever class graduates from Ensign College Prison Education Program

Brother Reid offers Ensign College’s largest graduating cohort his secret to success: ‘Stay in the game’

8. Sister Browning teaches ‘Jesus noticed women’ to thousands in recent NYC women’s conference

Sister Browning addressed over 2,000 Latter-day Saint Women during the “Onward, Ever Onward!” United States Northeast Area Women’s Conference on Saturday, May 30. She spoke about becoming a female follower of Jesus Christ.

“The Lord continues to need women who know Him, who trust Him, who hear Him, who follow Him and who help others find Him,” she said.

Read more about Sister Browning’s address at the conference here.

Sister Tracy Y. Browning at October 2025 general conference: ‘Tune Your Heart to Jesus Christ: The Sacred Gift of Primary Music’

In Mexico, President Porter and Sister Browning see children serving others

9. Reservations for Temple Square’s ‘Inside a Temple’ tour and the Naga Philippines temple groundbreaking date set

Reservations will be available in batches for the “Inside a Temple” tour of the Temple Square Visitors’ Center in Salt Lake City. Tickets will become available every other Monday for no cost at TempleSquare.org or in the Temple Square app.

Also, the First Presidency released a groundbreaking date for the Naga Philippines Temple and it will be on Saturday, Aug. 8. Fourteen houses of the Lord are dedicated, under construction or announced in the Philippines.

See how to make reservations for Temple Square’s “Inside a Temple” tour.

Naga Philippines Temple groundbreaking date set

See Church News' coverage of temples here

10. Church New podcast, episode 297: Sculpting a testimony with Michael Hall

Hall has created two sculptors for the renovated Salt Lake Temple grounds — one depicting the Restoration of the Lord’s Church and another depicting the life of Jesus Christ. During this episode of the Church News podcast, he discusses how the sculpting process refined his testimony.

Read more about Michael Hall and sculpting a testimony here.

Listen to more episodes of the Church News podcast here

See the Church News week in review each Sunday

Read more conference study helps here

About this talk

• “Jesus Christ Is the Way”
• Elder Brian J. Holmes | General Authority Seventy
• Saturday afternoon session of April 2026 general conference.
• Theme: Disciples who bind themselves to Jesus Christ through covenant and follow His living prophet are led safely home.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Elder Holmes’ message here.

Outline

• Elder Holmes ran an extremely difficult marathon with his wife last year. Later he learned that another participant in the race was blind and ran the marathon tethered to a guide.
• • Text | Video
• Like a marathon, the journey of life can be difficult and hard to navigate. Without a greater power, no one would successfully finish the race.
• • Text | Video
• In His perfect love, Heavenly Father provided a Savior to guide His children (see John 3:16).
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ lived a perfect life and broke the bands of death. Because of His Atonement He is the only path back to the Father (see John 14:6).
• • Text | Video
• The Savior invites everyone to walk with Him along the covenant path. The ordinances of His gospel are essential to enter the kingdom of God (see John 3:5).
• • Text | Video
• Much like the blind runner tethered to his guide, disciples of Christ must also tether themselves to Him through covenants. Remaining tightly bound to the Savior will bring strength, joy and blessings even in a steep stretch of life.
• • Text | Video
• When life gets hard, and even when others turn back, the Savior is the only path to eternal life (see John 6:66–69).
• • Text | Video
• The Savior calls prophets, speaks through them and governs His Church by them. Rejecting the Lord’s prophets is equivalent to rejecting the Lord Himself (see Luke 10:16).
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ built His Church upon the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Himself being the chief cornerstone (see Ephesians 2:20).
• • Text | Video
• God desires for all of His children to come home, and Jesus Christ is the only way back. His disciples bind themselves to Him through covenant and follow His living prophet.
• • Text | Video

Reflection questions

How can you tether yourself to the Lord as you journey through life?

What’s the next step you can take on the covenant path?

In what ways have you bound yourself to Christ?

In what areas of your life can you bind yourself closer to Christ?

What can you do to follow prophetic counsel?

Speaker quotes

• “The Savior taught that He is not only our guide; He is the path. His way is the only path that leads to eternal life.”
• • Text | Video
• “As we remain tightly bound to Him, He is bound to us. We can expect His power to bless us with strength and joy even when we are experiencing a steep stretch of life.”
• • Text | Video
• “When our path gets hard — and it will — we can remember the apostle Peter. When the road of discipleship became steep and many ‘walked no more’ with Jesus, He turned to the Twelve and asked, ‘Will ye also go away?’ It was a searching question, one that reaches through time to each of us.”
• • Text | Video

Reference scriptures

• “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
• • John 3:16
• “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.”
• • Doctrine and Covenants 82:10
• “Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”
• • John 6:67–69

Invitations and promises

• “Like that marathon, our journey through life has moments of beauty and joy but is no walk in the park. We all want to cross the heavenly finish line and gain eternal life. Yet the course is often steep and difficult to navigate. We all face trials. Without a power greater than our own, no one successfully finishes this race.”
• • Text | Video
• “Our Savior invites us to walk with Him. His way is the covenant path, the one path that leads to our celestial finish line. We choose to walk the covenant path by exercising faith in Jesus Christ unto repentance, receiving the ordinances of His gospel and enduring to the end.”
• • Text | Video
• “When we have doubts, when discipleship feels demanding, when others turn back, that is the moment to stay bound to Christ just as Peter did. There is nowhere else to go; only Christ has the words of eternal life.”
• • Text | Video

Stories

• Last year, Elder Holmes and his wife ran the Jungfrau-Marathon in Switzerland. It is considered one of the most difficult marathons in the world. One runner who finished the race was blind, tethered to a guide.
• • Text | Video

From the footnotes

• 19. Ephesians 2:20; compare 1 Nephi 8:26–27 and 1 Nephi 11:34–36. Interestingly, the great and spacious building stood high in the air — in other words, it had no foundation, “and the fall thereof was exceedingly great” (1 Nephi 11:36). Additionally, those who occupy that building are described as they who fight against the Apostles of the Lamb.

Additional resources

• Related image: “Road to Emmaus” by Wendy B. Keller
• Related video: “Following God”
• Related hymn: No. 1004, “I Will Walk With Jesus”

Recent conference talks on following Jesus Christ

• President Dallin H. Oaks: “Divine Helps for Mortality” (April 2025)
• Elder David A. Bednar: “Abide in Me, and I in You; Therefore Walk With Me” (April 2023)
• President D. Todd Christofferson: “Why the Covenant Path” (April 2021)

Who is Elder Holmes?

• Elder Brian J. Holmes was sustained as a General Authority Seventy during the April 2025 general conference. He grew up in Salt Lake City, one of 12 children, and worked as vice president of Holmes Homes in Arizona, founded Holmes Law PLC and more recently worked as general counsel for Charter One LLC.

Remember conference — Elder Gérald Caussé: ‘Love All; Love Each’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

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

Weighing just under two pounds, Samuel’s body was severely underdeveloped. His lungs struggled to breathe, and he wasn’t able to regulate his own body temperature and feed properly.

His condition worsened over the next few days. Samuel’s weight dropped even more, and he began to suffer episodes of apnea, a condition that causes the body to stop breathing for extended periods of time.

In a country with a 4% under-5-years child mortality rate, Zambia currently ranks 30th in the world for highest child mortality rates, Samuel’s likelihood of survival was slim.

“I truly believe that my baby is alive and progressing today because of the care and support we received,” said Samuel’s mother, Nasilele. (Her last name was withheld for privacy purposes.)

A month prior to Samuel’s birth, the Newborn Intensive Care Unit staff at Lewanika General Hospital received new and updated training on newborn care.

Provided by the worldwide nonprofit organization Save the Children, the training focused on maternal and newborn health and nutritional care.

This specific initiative, titled “Integrated Maternal, Newborn and Child Health and Nutrition Project,” was funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The training implemented an improved newborn feeding technique called kangaroo mother care, designed specifically for premature infants.

It was this technique that ultimately saved Samuel’s life.

“From the day Samuel was born, the nurses and doctors never left us alone,” said his mother Nasilele.

“They explained everything to me, encouraged me when I was afraid and taught me how to care for my baby, even when he was so small.”

Kangaroo mother care focuses on mother-child bonding through skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding.

The method keeps the premature newborn wrapped in a cloth — much like a kangaroo pouch — and held against the mother’s chest. This helps the child hold a stable body temperature and aids in reducing stress on the body.

The technique also helps the mother alert NICU staff when the child stops breathing, allowing for faster emergency care.

With their newfound knowledge of infant care, the nursing staff’s approach to helping infants like Samuel had completely changed.

“Before our recent training, managing such a fragile baby would have been very difficult, and his chance of survival would have been much lower,” said a hospital worker who helped with Samuel’s care.

Despite the odds, and with the help of medical staff both day and night, Samuel began to improve. He gained two pounds, began to feed consistently, and his breathing stabilized.

Less than four months after he was born, Samuel was discharged from the hospital.

By the time he was 10 months old, Samuel weighed 18 pounds and has been healthy and improving ever since.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made its first donation to Save the Children in June 2024, just six months before Samuel’s birth.

The Integrated Maternal, Newborn and Child Health and Nutrition Project is part of a larger $55.8 million donation to seven other charities.

In 2024 alone, the Church donated $1.45 billion in global humanitarian efforts. In 2025, the Church donated $1.58 billion to global humanitarian aid.

Now, in 2026, the Church continues to donate to humanitarian charities, with its most recent emphasis being the support of women and children.

Save the Children is an international organization and a world leader in its efforts to help children. In Zambia, their efforts seek to provide proper healthcare, nutrition and education.

It also fights for children’s rights and protection. The non-profit organization has been active in Zambia since 1983.

Children in Zambia are confronted with a variety of challenges every single day. The multidimensional poverty rate is over 70%, causing a lack of basic resources to millions of children.

Thanks to considerable efforts in healthcare, the aforementioned under-5 child mortality rate has begun to decrease compared to past decades.

Samuel’s story is just one example of the challenges the people of Zambia face. However, his story is also an example of the powerful impact that humanitarian efforts can have on a child’s life.

The impact of kangaroo mother care on maternal and infant health

Church donates equipment to hospital in Ivory Coast

Read more conference study helps here

About this talk

• “Jesus Christ Is Not Our Burden; He Is Our Relief”
• Brother David J. Wunderli | First counselor in the Young Men general presidency
• Saturday afternoon session of April 2026 general conference.
• Theme: Jesus Christ is relief for those who walk with Him.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Brother Wunderli’s message here.

Outline

• Brother Wunderli’s son brought a picture of Christ on a family hike. He collected rocks during the hike and put them in his pack, which became too heavy. He slowly removed rocks from his pack but kept the picture of Christ.
• • Text | Video

Jesus Christ is your relief — He has overcome the world

• Many Latter-day Saint youth around the world are choosing to walk with Christ and live righteously.
• • Text | Video
• When difficult times come, taking Jesus Christ out of one’s life is not the answer. He is the relief.
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ has overcome the world (see John 16:33), has suffered for His people (see Alma 7:11–12) and invites everyone to abide with Him (see John 15:4–9; Moses 6:34).
• • Text | Video

Abide with Him; walk with Him

• When someone walks with Christ, their confidence will be anchored to His truth, their ability to love others will be an extension of His love, and they will have real hope through His Atonement.
• • Text | Video
• Keeping Christ close requires intentional, daily worship, including prayer, scripture study, repentance and willingness to live covenants every day.
• • Text | Video
• Abiding with Christ eases burdens, and walking with Him shapes character. He is the way (see John 14:6).
• • Text | Video
• When walking with Christ, even during the most difficult times of life, allow Him to ease burdens. He is relief and strength.
• • Text | Video

Reflection questions

What are some of the metaphorical “rocks” the Savior can help you remove from your life?

In what ways do you stay close to Jesus Christ?

How can you start to walk with the Savior more often?

Where in your life can you let the Savior bear your burdens?

How have you seen Christ and His Atonement help you during difficult times?

Speaker quotes

• “As you continue your journey from baptism forward, through your teenage years and on to adulthood, committed to becoming lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ, know that rocks found along the way will begin to collect in your backpack — some by choice and some by the very nature of your journey in this life. As the weight increases, please remember that taking Jesus Christ out of your life is not the answer. Removing Him will not lighten your load.”
• • Text | Video
• “You keep Jesus Christ with you as you exercise faith in Him, trust Him and turn to Him in sincere, daily repentance. You keep Jesus Christ with you as you are willing to live your covenants every day and renew them every week. My young brothers and sisters, it is that simple.”
• • Text | Video
• “My dear young friends, may we together continue to walk with Jesus Christ, even in our most difficult moments — when we question our worth, doubt our capabilities or question our faith. When we feel that we are alone, when the weight of life’s challenges sends us backward, may we hold strong to our resolve to keep Him with us.”
• • Text | Video

Reference scriptures

• “Behold my Spirit is upon you, wherefore all thy words will I justify; and the mountains shall flee before you, and the rivers shall turn from their course; and thou shalt abide in me, and I in you; therefore walk with me.”
• • Moses 6:34
• “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
• • John 16:33
• “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
• • Matthew 11:28–30

Invitations and promises

• “The enemy of happiness wants to separate you from Jesus Christ. He will tempt you to remove the Savior from your life, enticing you to think that the road would be easier without Him, that the weight of His commandments is too great, that the path back is too long, that repentance is too hard. Know this: Satan is a liar. Jesus Christ is not the weight; He is the relief.”
• • Text | Video
• “Abiding with Him eases your burdens. Walking with Him shapes your character and helps you become even as He is. It brings you real and lasting joy.”
• • Text | Video
• “Jesus Christ is not the weight; He is our relief; He is our strength; He is the way. May we all walk with Him.”
• • Text | Video

Stories

• Brother Wunderli’s son received a picture of Jesus Christ in Primary. He took the image with him wherever he went, including on a family hike. While on the hike, the boy put rocks into his pack, which became too heavy. Seeing a lesson, Brother Wunderli said he should remove the picture of Christ to lighten the load, but his son would not.
• • Text | Video
• While visiting a family in West Africa, Brother Wunderli and his wife asked what Jesus Christ has done for their family. One of the boys responded with one word — relief.
• • Text | Video

Additional resources

• Related image: “Woman at the Well”
• Related video: “Because of Jesus Christ We Can Navigate Life’s Challenges”
• Related hymn: No. 1004, “I Will Walk With Jesus”

Recent conference talks on walking with Christ

• Elder Brian J. Holmes: “Jesus Christ Is the Way” (April 2026)
• Elder Patrick Kearon: “Jesus Christ and Your New Beginning” (October 2025)
• President Russell M. Nelson: “We Can Do Better and Be Better” (April 2019)

Who is Brother Wunderli?

• Brother David J. Wunderli is the first counselor in the Young Men general presidency, sustained on April 5, 2025. His hope is for the youth of the Church to feel a sense of belonging, to know that Jesus Christ knows them by name and that this is their Church. In his business life, he worked as an executive at Easton Sports and president of OGIO International.

Remember conference — Elder Wan-Liang Wu: ‘I Will Give Away All My Sins To Know Thee’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

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

Read more conference study helps here

About this talk

• “Christ — Author and Finisher of Our Faith”
• Elder Eduardo F. Ortega | General Authority Seventy
• Saturday afternoon session of April 2026 general conference.
• Theme: A personal testimony is developed through intentional actions of faith and a lifelong search for truth.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of Elder Ortega’s message here.

Outline

• Multigenerational gospel families are a great blessing, but true discipleship always begins with a personal decision to follow the Savior.
• • Text | Video
• Having a family legacy of faith aids in the growth of a testimony; however, a personal testimony comes in response to a sincere desire to gain knowledge and to act upon the impressions that follow.
• • Text | Video
• Elder Ortega’s grandmother joined the Church in 1957 and developed her own personal testimony that continues to bless her family’s life.
• • Text | Video
• While serving as a young missionary, Elder Ortega decided to “experiment upon [Christ’s] words” (Alma 32:27) and gained a personal and undeniable testimony of Him. Elder Ortega has seen the gospel refine him as he trusts in the Lord.
• • Text | Video
• New members who endure on the covenant path despite imperfect circumstances can find hope in Christ. Pressing forward with a steadfastness in Him will provide an opportunity to see the Savior’s perfecting influence.
• • Text | Video
• The invitation to endure on the covenant path is received individually, by seeking diligently the good word of God and relying upon the merits of Christ. Disciples who “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ” and endure to the end “shall have eternal life” (2 Nephi 31:20).
• • Text | Video
• Becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ is a lifelong process that requires small, daily spiritual events. Walking the path of discipleship means choosing the safe path, even if it is the longest and most demanding one.
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of faith, and He heals, refines and perfects.
• • Text | Video

Reflection questions

How can you build your personal testimony instead of relying on the testimony of others?

What can you do to “experiment upon [Christ’s] words” (Alma 32:27) like Elder Ortega did?

In what ways have you seen the Savior’s hand in your life?

What can you do to “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ” (2 Nephi 31:20)?

How can you stay on or get back to the safe path that the restored gospel provides?

Speaker quotes

• “A personal testimony comes in response to our sincere and dedicated quest to want to know for ourselves and then to act upon the impressions and the knowledge received.”
• • Text | Video
• “Over the years I have seen the Lord’s hand and His gospel work in me to perfect and refine me as I have trusted in Him and strived to ‘press forward with a steadfastness’ (2 Nephi 31:20).”
• • Text | Video
• “The path of discipleship often resembles climbing a mountain. The shortest path to the top is not always the most appropriate and often not the safest either. Thus, we must choose the firm and safe path, even if it is sometimes the longest and most demanding one.”
• • Text | Video

Reference scriptures

• “But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.”
• • Alma 32:27
• “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.”
• • 2 Nephi 31:20
• “And after they had been received unto baptism, and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way, to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and the finisher of their faith.”
• • Moroni 6:4

Invitations and promises

• “There is a road ahead for you to ‘press forward with a steadfastness in Christ’ (2 Nephi 31:20) as you endure on the covenant path. In doing so, perhaps you will experience the same as I have; … the refining and perfecting hand of our Savior, Jesus Christ, in my life and in my family’s life.”
• • Text | Video
• “We must choose the firm and safe path, even if it is sometimes the longest and most demanding one. Jesus Christ and His restored gospel constitute that safe path that leads us to the true summit.”
• • Text | Video
• “I testify of the healing, refining and perfecting power of Jesus Christ. I know that Jesus Christ lives, that He was resurrected on the third day and that the empty tomb is a symbol of His victory. I testify that He is the author and the finisher of our faith.”
• • Text | Video

Stories

• Elder Ortega’s grandmother joined the Church in 1957 and developed her own personal testimony that continues to bless her family’s life.
• • Text | Video
• While serving as a young missionary in Colombia, Elder Ortega gained his own personal testimony by following the teachings of the Book of Mormon.
• • Text | Video

Additional resources

• Related image: “Jesus at the Door” by Del Parson
• Related video: “Good Things To Come”
• Related hymn: No. 140, “Did You Think To Pray?”

Recent conference talks on testimony

• Elder David A. Bednar: “All Who Have Endured Valiantly” (April 2026)
• President Henry B. Eyring: “Proved and Strengthened in Christ” (October 2025)
• Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “Right Before Our Eyes” (April 2025)

Who is Elder Ortega?

• Elder Eduardo F. Ortega was sustained as a General Authority Seventy in the April 2025 general conference. Born in Godoy Cruz, Argentina, Elder Ortega was serving as an Area Seventy in the Mexico Area prior to his call as a general authority.

Remember conference — Elder Gary E. Stevenson: ‘Lost Luggage, Redeemed Souls’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

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

During a keynote address at a summit in Athens, Greece, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared both soaring hopes and hard questions for AI systems. Elder Gong also participated in a Friend to Friend broadcast for Primary children around the world with his wife, Sister Susan Gong, and the Primary general presidency. And Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson met with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

Temple news included announcements for temples in South Carolina, Idaho, Mexico and Brazil. Elder David P. Homer, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Church’s Priesthood and Family Department, discussed the upcoming second hour changes for church. And a feature article highlighted how Church historians have worked with Northwest Shoshone leaders to create a digital database that holds the records of Native Shoshone members of the Church.

Read summaries and find links to these articles below.

1. First Presidency tours new Humanitarian Center in Salt Lake City

The First Presidency — President Dallin H. Oaks and his counselors,President Henry B. Eyring and President D. Todd Christofferson — toured the new Humanitarian Center in Salt Lake City on Friday, May 22, 2026.

The new Humanitarian Center was dedicated on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 and will serve to further expand the humanitarian efforts of the Church around the world.

First Presidency tours new Humanitarian Center in Salt Lake City

New Humanitarian Center will ‘bring new beginnings for thousands’

2. Elder Bednar ministers to members, meets with government officials in Chile and Argentina

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ministered to members in Chile and Argentina and met with government leaders from May 15-22, 2026.

On May 18, Elder Bednar met with José Antonio Kast, the president of Chile, at the Presidential Palace in Santiago, Chile.

Later on May 20, Elder Bednar traveled to Rosario, Argentina, where he met with Mayor Pablo Javkin at the Municipal Palace.

Elder Bednar ministers to members, meets with government officials in Chile and Argentina

3. Elder Cook and Elder Gilbert testify of Christ during special broadcast across the U.K. and Ireland

On Sunday, May 24, Elder Quentin L. Cook and Elder Clark G. Gilbert spoke to Church members across the United Kingdom and Ireland in a special broadcast, the Church’s United Kingdom Newsroom reported.

With the broadcast originating from the Hyde Park Chapel in London, both Apostles spoke about strengthening faith and finding peace in Jesus Christ.

Elder Cook and Elder Gilbert testify of Christ during special broadcast across the U.K. and Ireland

4. At summit in Athens, Elder Gong shares soaring hopes, hard questions for AI systems

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles delivered a keynote address at the AI Summit on Ethics and Artificial Intelligence in Athens, Greece.

In his message delivered Tuesday, May 26, at the conference, Elder Gong shared practical, actionable ways that AI tools can achieve their loftiest potential.

At summit in Athens, Elder Gong shares soaring hopes, hard questions for AI systems

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

Elder Gerrit W. Gong and his wife, Sister Susan Gong, participated in a Friend to Friend broadcast that was released on Sunday, May 24.

Elder Gong and his wife, along with the Primary general presidency, taught children about why God has provided living prophets on the earth today.

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

6. President Johnson meets governor of Maryland, discusses service priorities

Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson met with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore on Friday, May 15, to discuss expanding service opportunities and strengthening communities across the state.

President Johnson meets governor of Maryland, discusses service priorities

7. Sites announced for temples in South Carolina and Idaho

Site maps for the Greenville South Carolina Temple and the Caldwell Idaho Temple were released by the First Presidency on Tuesday, May 26. Both temples were announced April 6, 2025 during general conference.

Additionally, the San Luis Potosí Mexico Temple open house and dedication dates were announced, with the public open house running from Thursday, Sept. 24, through Saturday, Oct. 10, excluding Sundays and Saturday, Oct. 3, because of general conference. The temple will then be dedicated on Nov. 1 by Elder Dale G. Renlund.

Also announced on Tuesday, May 26, the groundbreaking for the Santos Brazil Temple will take place on Aug. 1.

Sites announced for temples in South Carolina and Idaho

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

Elder David P. Homer, a General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Church’s Priesthood and Family Department, joined Church News reporter Mary Richards to explain what to know about the changes to the second hour class schedule and how to prepare.

Elder Homer explained that these updates are meant to support members as they learn, worship and serve both at home and at church.

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

9. The Washakie Ward: Church collaborates with Northwestern Shoshone to create ‘Native Saints’ digital history

Church historians have worked with Northwest Shoshone leaders to create a digital database that holds the records of Native Shoshone members of the Church.

The Washakie Ward is among 1,600 Shoshone individuals featured in a new digital history project, “Native Saints: The Washakie Ward.”

The Washakie Ward: Church collaborates with Northwestern Shoshone to create ‘Native Saints’ digital history

10. FSY in Brazil empowers youth to walk with Christ

Thousands of youth gathered in Fortaleza, Brazil, for the For the Strength of Youth conferences in February. The youth explored this year’s theme, “Walk with me” and how to open their hearts and grow spiritually.

FSY in Brazil empowers youth to walk with Christ

Read more conference study helps here

About this talk

• “Prayers for Peace”
• President Henry B. Eyring | First counselor in the First Presidency
• Saturday morning session of April 2026 general conference.
• Theme: Continual prayer, during both joy and distress, opens the door to the Savior’s peace and support.

Read the full message here.

Read a summary of President Eyring’s message here.

Outline

• The Savior, Jesus Christ, has promised that He will provide His faithful disciples with peace in whatever difficulties they face in their lives (see John 14:27).
• • Text | Video
• The world today is in commotion, yet faithful Latter-day Saints have flooded heaven with prayers and asked the Lord for peace and comfort.
• • Text | Video
• Jesus Christ watches over and cares for His disciples and will be a refuge for them (see Psalm 9:9–10).
• • Text | Video
• Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are aware of individuals’ circumstances and yearn to bless them in moments of pain, loneliness or confusion as they ask and seek (see Luke 11:9–10).
• • Text | Video
• Fervent prayer does not require flowery language. Rather, it’s pouring out of the soul and having the heart drawn out in prayer continually (see Alma 34:26–27).
• • Text | Video
• Prayers of the heart invite the Lord’s strengthening power to make individuals’ burdens lighter (see Mosiah 24:12–15).
• • Text | Video
• The Lord has commanded His disciples to “pray always” (Doctrine and Covenants 19:38). As they do, no matter the circumstances of life, the Savior offers His peace and abiding support.
• • Text | Video
• Spiritual strength comes from continual prayer during joyous times and seasons of distress and grief.
• • Text | Video
• A humble prayer for peace in the heart will be honored.
• • Text | Video

Reflection questions

How can you have a continual prayer in your heart this week?

Is there a time when you prayed for peace and felt your prayer was answered?

How can you follow the examples of Alma and his people in your prayers?

What can you do to avoid “vain repetitions” when you pray?

What’s a difficulty you’re currently facing in your life? How and when will you seek the Lord’s strengthening power through prayer for that difficulty?

Speaker quotes

• “In moments of pain, loneliness or confusion, we know that our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son are aware of our circumstances and that They yearn to bless us.”
• • Text | Video
• “The feelings of your heart and the love for our Heavenly Father and for His Beloved Son can be so constant that your prayers will ascend always.”
• • Text | Video
• “Consistent prayer during joyous times and also during seasons of distress and grief will surely be rewarded according to His will and perfect timing.”
• • Text | Video

Reference scriptures

• “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
• • John 14:27
• “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
• • Luke 11:9–10
• “And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.”
• • Mosiah 24:15

Invitations and promises

• “I testify that the Lord hears and answers the prayers of our hearts, just as He did for Alma and his people. We can follow His commandment to ‘pray always’ by having a continual prayer in our hearts.”
• • Text | Video
• “As we pray continually, no matter the circumstances of life, the Lord will offer us His peace and abiding support.”
• • Text | Video
• “I testify that I know that Jesus Christ lives. He loves us and blesses us. He continues to offer us peace in our lives through sincere and fervent prayer.”
• • Text | Video

Stories

• In the Book of Mormon, as the people of Alma the Elder poured out their hearts in nonverbal prayers, the Lord strengthened them to bear up their burdens with ease (see Mosiah 24:12–15). He hears and answers the prayers of His disciples’ hearts today as well.
• • Text | Video
• President Eyring was surprised at the feeling of peace at the funeral of his wife of 61 years. The Lord had answered his prayer for peace with an assurance from the Holy Ghost, allowing him to envision the happy reunion ahead with her.
• • Text | Video

Additional resources

• Related image: “Jesus Praying in Gethsemane”
• Related video: “God Wants You To Pray”
• Related hymn: No. 142, “Sweet Hour of Prayer”

Recent conference talks on prayer

• Elder Brik V. Eyre: “Know Who You Really Are” (October 2025)
• President Susan H. Porter: “Pray, He Is There” (April 2024)
• President Henry B. Eyring: “Our Constant Companion” (October 2023)

Who is President Eyring?

• President Henry B. Eyring was set apart as first counselor in the First Presidency on Oct. 14, 2025, to Church President Dallin H. Oaks. After his call to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1995, he also served as a counselor to President Gordon B. Hinckley, President Thomas S. Monson and President Russell M. Nelson. He served as the 10th president of Ricks College — now BYU–Idaho — from 1971 to 1977.

Remember conference — Elder Jorge T. Becerra: ‘Tithing — Putting God First’

Download a PDF of talk summaries from April 2026 general conference

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

Both leaders and both universities were featured in recent three-part BYUtv documentary under that title: “Higher Ed: The Power of Faith-inspired Learning.” The documentary highlights both BYU and Taylor University — and other colleges — and shows how their leaders are using faith to encourage learning.

And on Tuesday, May 19, the two university presidents were featured in a BYU forum discussing the topic of faith and higher education. The event was held at the Marriott Center on the Provo, Utah, campus.

Following a video comprised of clips from the documentary, President Reese talked about the challenges and scrutiny that some religious universities face. He advised students to make the most of receiving both an academic and religious education, encouraging them to “lean into it.”

“I think those two things can happen simultaneously, even though people might tell you otherwise,” he said.

President Lindsay said two bell towers stand at the center of Taylor University, an evangelical, interdenominational Christian liberal arts university located in Upland, Indiana. It has a similar mission to BYU: to encourage its students to put Christ at the center of their lives.

At night, each tower has a beam of light shooting upwards into the air, President Lindsay said, adding that instead of going their own courses, the two light beams intersect.

“One represents faith, the other represents learning,” he said. “That’s really what we are trying to do at Taylor, encourage students to integrate faith and learning.”

In the video shown, President Lindsay emphasized that as students discover who they are to God, their understanding of themselves will grow. This knowledge gives students power in their personal and academic lives.

“We don’t know who we are until we realize Whose we are,” he said in the video.

President Lindsay and President Reese both agreed that seeking to grow academically as well as spiritually is ultimately a joyful pursuit.

The conversation then shifted towards how religious institutions can maintain respect for those who disagree with them.

President Lindsay referred back to one of the foundational principles of Christianity — to love one’s neighbor (see Matthew 22:39).

Following that commandment, Taylor University has raised close to $100 million to help support local businesses in the small town of Upland, where the university is located.

President Reese, in turn, spoke about maintaining humility while interacting with those who disagree with the approach of pursuing faith and inspired learning.

“I hope that we as faith-based institutions have a healthy sense of humility. I think it’s a commandment and we need to observe that,” he said.

Taylor University’s exemplar of faith and humility, said President Lindsay, was a man named Samuel Morris, who came to Taylor in the late 19th century.

Formerly a Liberian prince, he fled his homeland because of a coup. After making his way to Indiana, he converted to Christianity. The university’s first student of color and first international student, Morris became known for holding strong to his faith as he sought understanding.

It is that attitude of being faithful in the pursuit of truth that President Lindsay said inspires him to this day, “We are willing to tackle the big questions, because we believe that all truth is God’s truth.”

When asked how he has seen faith strengthen scholarship, President Reese said: “I firmly believe that those two things [faith and scholarship] are not mutually exclusive but rather mutually reinforcing.

“We believe that study amplifies faith and that belief enhances inquiry and that revelation leads to deeper understanding.”

Citing Church President Spencer W. Kimball, President Reese said that students must become bilingual in both the language of God — faith — and in the language of disciplines — scholarship.

This dual understanding enables students at religious universities to ask bigger questions and find answers to those questions, he said, whereas, secular schools wouldn’t be able to ask the same questions and seek answers to those questions.

Asked to share his final thoughts to BYU students and other students at religious universities, President Lindsay first touched on how BYU has impacted him on a personal level, mentioning his daughter, who has a severe intellectual disability.

President Lindsay told how she loves to listen to music, specifically Noteworthy and Vocal Point, two a cappella groups formed by BYU students. Their music has brought comfort to both him and his daughter, he said.

First joking that they are “BYU groupies,” he expressed his gratitude for BYU and its mission. “It’s amazing to see the way in which your ministry reaches out and touches the life of my daughter,” he said. “Our family has been so blessed by the ministry of this place.”

As his final thought, President Lindsay encouraged all in attendance to seek to be like Jesus Christ.

“That’s my encouragement and admonition for all of us, to embody grace and truth to a world in need,” he said.

BYU students can become ‘beacons of light’ in a world that ‘desperately needs it,’ says President Reese

BYU President and Sister Reese welcome students back, teach ‘becoming’ and positivity at first fall devotional

‘Becoming’ and ‘doing’ through a gospel lens, BYU President Reese and Sister Reese teach at devotional

In its ninth iteration, the Saints in Unity event, in a Duncanville, Texas, meetinghouse of the Church, featured Elder Brown, a General Authority Seventy, as its keynote speaker.

Elder Brown spoke about the role temples have in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and how they inspire connection with Jesus Christ.

“Elder Brown gave exactly the message the room needed,” said John Rex, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metro assistant director of outreach for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who helped coordinate the event. “He grounded Latter-day Saint temple worship in Old Testament scripture so a non-Latter-day Saint audience could follow him plainly.”

Using the story of Moses finding the Israelites worshipping the golden calf (see Exodus 32), Elder Brown taught about the importance of recognizing the Lord’s hand in one’s life. He encouraged the audience to consider what they would have done in that situation.

“It made me reflect on how many of us see the miracles of the Lord in our own lives but still focus on our own ‘golden calves.’ I have been contemplating what those might be in my own life and how I can work to tear them down,” said Jasmin Felton, a member of the Plano Texas Stake.

Elder Brown also used personal experiences to demonstrate the significance of temples in the past and present.

“He helped all of us, regardless of our particular denomination, learn about the significance of temples through the ages. We witnessed his devotion to honoring the role of temples as directed by Jesus Christ,” said Peter Harris, Dallas-Fort Worth Metro communications director for the Church.

Prior to the devotional, special guests were able to research their ancestors and view their family trees. After Elder Brown’s address, the event honored these special guests and other members of the community who promote unity among faiths.

Trish Hodges, director of the OneVoice Community Outreach Choir, was honored with an exemplary service award. The choir brings vocalists from various faiths together through the power of gospel music.

The OneVoice Choir provided music for the event, including a soloist performance of “You Deserve It.”

Deidre Hamid of CARE Services, a community outreach program that provides food to those in need and helps individuals find financial stability, was also honored for her work in the community.

Prominent members of the religious community were honored as well, including Superintendent Pastor Robert Horton and his wife, Kamie Horton, of the Christ Holy Sanctified Church of America; Bishop Emmanuel Ekong from Brotherhood of The Cross & Star; Nisaa Muhammad from the Desoto Islamic Center; and the Rev. Cassandry Keys Jones and the Rev. Harlan Jones from the Jones Hill Chapel CME and the Mosley Chapel CME.

Red Oak, Texas, Mayor Willie G. Franklin Jr. and his wife, Karen Franklin, were also honored.

To conclude an evening of testimony and music, the congregation sang a rendition of “Amazing Grace,” marking the end to another interfaith event in the Saints in Unity devotional series for the people of North Texas.

Sharisa Lewis, assistant director of media for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, contributed to this report.

‘Saints in Unity’ devotional bridges faith and community in North Texas

Amid flooding’s death and destruction, Latter-day Saint leaders talk of ministering, mercies and miracles

The three-part exhibit’s main goal is to encourage guests to learn more about the teachings of Jesus Christ. Each part creatively engages participants in spiritually building experiences.

Information about the exhibit was posted on the Church’s Spanish-language Newsroom.

The FamilySearch Experience

FamilySearch is the largest genealogical organization in the world. As part of its initiative to connect families and their ancestors, the FamilySearch Experience allows attendees to explore their family histories on a personal level.

Backed by artificial intelligence, guests can search through records from 130 countries almost instantaneously. The exhibit is designed for entire families to participate, allowing them to find the origins of their surnames or add newfound ancestors to their family trees.

The experience has a “grandparents corner,” where guests can experience the journey of immigrants who arrived in Buenos Aires, Argentina, decades ago. They can even dress in clothing of the time period, creating an immersive experience.

Book of Mormon Experience

This part of the exhibit aims to create interactions with the Book of Mormon. Each guest is given a random passage to read and share their immediate thoughts.

However, those participating in the activity do not know the book they are reading from — meant to remove possible preconceived biases in order to share the true message of the Book of Mormon.

“When people read, they begin to feel something. It’s as if barriers are broken down and they can discover for themselves that God is real and is trying to communicate with them,” said exhibit creator Jeff Sheets.

After success in North America and Europe, the exhibit traveled to South America and is entering its fourth consecutive year at the Buenos Aires book fair.

JustServe Experience

JustServe is a service platform created by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that connects people to local volunteer projects. These projects are designed to aid local communities and promote unity through service.

Worldwide, JustServe has over 1 million registered volunteers spread throughout 17 countries. In Argentina, the JustServe foundation has more than 26,000 registered volunteers.

Part of the organization’s impact in Argentina comes from efforts made at the Buenos Aires book fair, where guests participated in assembling 32,500 school and hygiene kits.

These kits are sent to local communities to promote education and health, giving many an opportunity to uplift others around them.

Read more about the Book of Mormon Experience here (Spanish)

Read more about the FamilySearch Experience here (Spanish)

2,500 participate in ‘Book of Mormon Experiment’ in Germany at world’s largest book fair

The Church’s efforts to care for those in need focuses on giving people a hand up

But now he can and has introduced that description as a new mantra for Ensign College: “The light of Ensign.”

President Kusch introduced the phrase at the college’s first devotional of the 2026 spring semester, held Tuesday, May 5, on Ensign’s Salt Lake City campus. His wife, Sister Alynda Kusch, also spoke, focusing on personal worth and trusting in God’s divine plan.

“The light of Ensign is observed. It is felt. It is experienced. It is lived and shared,” said President Kusch, who also spoke on the Light of Christ.

And as Ensign students live the gospel, they can radiate the Light of Christ to others (see Matthew 5:16; 3 Nephi 12:16).

“The scriptures teach us that light is a powerful force and influence and comes into our lives in a variety of ways,” he said, explaining that light is a characteristic of God and will always overcome darkness.

Each individual carries a divine light and is encouraged to share it with others around them, President Kusch taught, promising that as Ensign students do so, it will fill their lives and change the lives of others around them.

“When becoming like the Savior becomes our primary focus, the light that fills our life will be felt by others, our faith will increase, as well as our capacity and ability to resist the tugs and pulls of the world.”

President Kusch observed that light has played an important role in the scriptures and the Restoration. He noted that Joseph Smith saw “a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun” and later described the Father and the Son as having a “brightness and glory” that defied all description (Joseph Smith—History 1:16-17).

In the Book of Mormon, the brother of Jared learned about light and its connection to the Divine when he saw the finger of the Lord illuminate small stones (see Ether 3). President Kusch pointed out that from this experience, the brother of Jared came to know the true Source of light and how He provided both physical and spiritual light for His people.

Likewise, the light of Ensign can become a powerful source of light for both students and faculty. It plays a role in education, prompting students to learn with power and faith and professors to integrate gospel principles into their classrooms.

President Kusch cited a 2009 Ensign College address in which President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency, said the college was to be a beacon of Christ’s light to the world. He invited students to become examples of integrity and to conduct themselves in a way that invites the Holy Spirit.

President Kusch shared examples of this “light of Ensign” — students reaching out to other struggling students and offering help, lonely students being taken in by classmates and a student body representing more than 70 countries coming together in unity and love.

And of the Light of Christ, President Kusch said: “May we seek every day to be a little more like the Savior, to fill our lives with just a little more of His light.”

Sister Kusch taught that the Lord is present in everyone’s life and that He knows each individual personally. While the scriptural experiences of prophets like Moses, Enos and Joseph Smith underscore such a truth, students are equally known by God, she said.

She shared an anecdote about individual value in the eyes of the Lord. Shortly after they were married, the Kusches sold their home in preparation to move about 60 miles away. But then, President Kusch was called to serve as the bishop at age 26. He chose to accept the calling and stay, and the Kusches were blessed, Sister Kusch said.

“We can’t really plan our lives in the sense that we can tell the Lord what is best for us. … Rather, if we are prepared to receive His direction and act upon those promptings, then we live a life that is much more than we could have ever designed for ourselves.”

God’s plan will bring blessings and opportunities that “we could have never imagined,” Sister Kusch said, adding that she has come to understand her own divine worth and how to trust in spiritual promptings over personal preferences.

“In this heavenly equation called life, remember these truths: The Lord loves you. The Lord wants you to be happy, therefore you can trust Him and rely upon Him and know that as you follow, He will guide you to a better life than you can imagine.”

President and Sister Kusch testify to Ensign College students of the Prophet’s teachings regarding dating, marriage

Ensign College President echoes President Nelson’s invitation to ‘increase your understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ’

Ensign College president teaches students to be ‘SAFE’ in their faith

Sister Amy A. Wright, first counselor in the Primary general presidency, spoke at the Provo Missionary Training Center on April 28, and Church News became available in French. The list of temple presidents and matrons called in 2026 was released; the Yorba Linda California Temple open house is underway, and the president of BYU-Idaho spoke about being a peacemaker.

Blaine Maxfield, managing director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services, spoke about the Caring for Those in Need 2025 report on a new Church News podcast episode.

Read summaries and find links to these 10 articles below.

1. Church leaders welcome representatives from Czech Republic, Kazakhstan

Senior leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — including First Presidency counselors President Henry B. Eyring and President D. Todd Christofferson — welcomed representatives from Czech Republic and Kazakhstan to Salt Lake City on Tuesday, April 28, where the visitors also received a tour of Church facilities.

Read more about their visits.

First Presidency welcomes Thai ambassador to Temple Square

2. Church leaders speak at 2026 BYU Women’s Conference

Elder David A. Bednar spoke about rising up to our potential through the merits of Christ. Also, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson spoke about opening the door to the Savior, and Sister Tamara W. Runia, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, spoke on the power of Christ’s light.

Read more about Elder Bednar’s address here.

Read about what President Johnson said here.

Read about Sister Runia talked about here.

Faithful Latter-day Saint women are the ‘greatest rebuttal to Hollywood’s insanity,’ Sheri Dew says at 2026 BYU Women

3. Elder Andersen answers his son’s questions on faith and service

Elder Andersen sat down with his son Derek Andersen to talk about faith on the “Divot” podcast. Elder Andersen talked about navigating how to help others in need, and ways that he has made the “hardest part” of being an Apostle into “the most wonderful.”

Read more about their interview here.

Elder Andersen invites social media followers on his recent ministry in the Pacific Area

4. Elder Rasband receives honorary degree at University of Utah

Elder Rasband was awarded an honorary doctorate for his ‘critical support’ of Utah’s higher education institutions, and he invited graduates to “treat people with love.”

Read more about Elder Rasband at the University of Utah here.

Like a ‘courageous lighthouse keeper,’ BYU graduates encouraged by Elder Soares to share the Light of Jesus Christ

5. How the Savior’s parable of the sower applies to missionary work, Sister Wright teaches at Provo MTC

Sister Wright offered missionary insights from New Testament parable, utilizing the scriptures and “Preach My Gospel” during a Provo MTC devotional.

Read more about Sister Wright’s teachings at the Provo MTC here.

Missionaries return to African nation of Burundi

6. Church News available in French

The Church News is now accessible in French, allowing this living record of the Restoration to be available to millions more people globally. The Church News is available in French online and on social media, making it the fourth language to be published, in addition to English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Read about how to find the Church News in French.

Church News available in French

7. New temple presidents and matrons called in 2026

The First Presidency has called 62 couples to serve as temple presidents and matrons.

See the list of new temple leader assignments.

Learn about the history and stories of the temples of the Church in the Church News Almanac

8. Yorba Linda California Temple open house underway

The Yorba Linda California Temple opened its doors to the public this week for tours and viewing. The open house will run from April 30 to May 23, excluding Sundays. After its dedication on June 7, it is expected to serve more than 21,500 Latter-day Saints.

Additionally, the second temple in Buenos Aires, Argentina received an updated rendering.

Read more about the Yorba Linda California Temple.

Rendering updated for 2nd temple in Buenos Aires, Argentina

9. Peacemakers ‘stand for right without being contentious’ says BYU-Idaho president

President Alvin F. Meredith III taught about peacemakers “standing firmly for truth while showing genuine love." He emphasized that peacemaking doesn’t undermine values, rather, it stands for truth when others look to be contentious.

Read more about President Meredith’s address here.

‘Remember the lesson from the shores of the Great Salt Lake,’ Elder Teixeira tells BYU–Idaho graduates

10. Church News podcast, episode 292: The global and individual impact of caring for those in need in 2025

Blaine Maxfield, managing director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services, discussed the Caring for Those in Need 2025 report in a recent Church News podcast episode. The report shows that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints exceeded the previous year’s record, spending $1.58 billion to help those in need.

Listen to the podcast here.

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

See the Church News week in review each Sunday