Church News

Matthew Gray, BYU professor of ancient scripture and Ancient Near Eastern Studies coordinator, offers scholarly context on Passover, the Last Supper and the sacrament. He traces Passover origins in Exodus and how Jesus reframed elements into the sacrament. Discussions cover historical meal practices, archaeological clues, ritual continuity, and how the sacrament links past deliverance, present redemption and future hope.

Yaw (Yao) Danso, associate administrator with Africa leadership experience, and Chad H. Webb, administrator for Seminaries and Institutes and Sunday School leader, discuss the Institutes centennial. They cover enrollment growth and local initiatives. They talk about community and belonging, teaching by the Spirit, innovative programs, global expansion, and centennial celebrations.

Parker Van Dyke, collegiate and professional basketball player and broadcaster who served a full-time mission, talks about faith, sports, and service. He recalls growing up in a meetinghouse gym and how mission work shaped his path. He shares stories from playing overseas, navigating college sports changes, mentoring young players, and the call to build teams and communities rooted in faith.

Jonathan Wing, director of events at FamilySearch International who organizes RootsTech, shares behind-the-scenes plans. He previews global programming, multilingual hosts, headline speakers, and lively in-person activations. Themes of togetherness, broad outreach to nonmembers, and spiritual purpose come up in multiple short, engaging segments.

Sister Christine Gilbert, supportive wife and family-centered minister, and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and former church education leader, share personal moments of calling, family traditions with eight children, worldwide assignments and travel, how living places shaped them, and stories of relying on covenants and receiving the Savior's relief.

Dallin H. Oaks, President and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, speaks about carrying prophetic responsibility and inviting others to stay on the covenant path. He urges optimism amid challenges. Topics include temple worship, the Holy Ghost’s role, humility, patience, faithful friendships, harmony of faith and learning, and helping others progress spiritually.

Sheri Dew, longtime Church leader and executive known for biographical work, and Matt Grow, Church historian writing President Holland’s biography, discuss President Holland’s faith, communication skills, candor, and hope. They explore his mission years, memorable talks, personal letters, partnership with Pat Holland, and how documenting his life shaped their perspective on church leadership and discipleship.

Tanise Chung-Hoon, VP of Advancement at BYU–Pathway Worldwide and former managing director of Church philanthropies, talks about philanthropy, self-reliance, and the global reach of Church education. She shares stories of student transformations. The conversation highlights mentoring, scholarships, scalable education models, and practical ways people can support learning and opportunity worldwide.

Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women General President who champions scripture study and walking with the Savior. Timothy L. Farnes, Young Men General President with experience as a stake and mission president who focuses on ministering to youth. They discuss the 2026 youth theme 'Walk with me', finding Christ in the Old Testament, examples of youth walking with Jesus, daily practices to walk with Him, and FSY and resource rollouts.

Jill McAuley, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, transformed her life after becoming a quadriplegic at 18. She shares her journey of rediscovering her identity as a child of God, finding purpose in her struggles, and experiencing spiritual freedom through grace. Jill discusses the importance of service, both given and received, and how trials have helped her grow. She reflects on embracing peacemaking and forming a deeper relationship with Christ, revealing how her scars contribute to her sacred identity.