Summer is here and with the rising heat there is a rising excitement for the once-postponed Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Every few years the world comes together to celebrate the connecting power of sports, and this year several members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — including gymnast MyKayla Skinner — will compete for the honor of a gold medal. This episode of the Church News Podcast, features Church News senior reporter Jason Swenson reflecting on the gospel principles he has observed athletes practice on their journey toward conquering their goals. He also shares the one trait he has observed in all of them — the belief that their identity is, first and foremost, defined not by being an athlete, but by being a son or daughter of God.

The Church News Podcast is a weekly podcast that invites listeners to make a journey of connection with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the globe. Host Sarah Jane Weaver, reporter and editor for The Church News for a quarter-century, shares a unique view of the stories, events, and most important people who form this international faith. With each episode, listeners are asked to embark on a journey to learn from one another and ponder, “What do I know now?” because of the experience. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen.

Church News senior reporter Jason Swensen reflects on Latter-day Saint athletes who showcase discipline and persistence