Church News

For Church News reporter Sydney Walker, the journey into journalism involved viewing challenges as opportunities and trusting the Lord would guide her to where she needed to be. A Brigham Young University journalism graduate in 2017, she interned for the Deseret News’ Faith section, worked as an assistant in the Priesthood and Family Department at Church headquarters and later became a reporter at the Church News. In this episode of the Church News podcast, Walker joins Church News editor Ryan Jensen to discuss how faith in a loving Heavenly Father and in the Savior, Jesus Christ, has helped her embrace opportunities to serve in various roles and places. 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. Hosts Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of the Church News, and Church News reporter Mary Richards share unique views of the stories, events, and 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.

Aaron Coombs, a Seminaries and Institutes teacher, shares his insights on engaging with the Old Testament for 'Come, Follow Me' studies. He highlights the significance of understanding covenants and the Atonement, drawing connections between ancient narratives and modern spiritual life. Coombs emphasizes the importance of context in scripture study and the power of community to enhance learning. He also discusses the role of love and personal connection in teaching, aiming to inspire a deeper understanding of the gospel across all age groups.

Sister Mary N. Cook, who was pivotal in launching the Church in Mongolia alongside her late husband, shares her profound experiences. She reflects on the miraculous growth of the Church there, from its origins amid societal changes to the excitement of announcing a new temple in Ulaanbaatar. Sister Cook narrates transformational stories, including personal encounters and missionary challenges, and discusses the rich history of faith in Mongolia. Her insights showcase the deep connection between the community and the Church's mission.

Steven T. Collis, a Clinical professor of law at the University of Texas and expert in religious law, joins Mary Richards for an insightful discussion. They delve into the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right and share Collis' personal journey, including his transition from law practice to advocacy. The conversation highlights the need for local engagement in religious freedom issues and the role of peacemaking through dialogue, underscoring courage and moral integrity in defending diverse beliefs.

The partnership of Young Men General President Steven J. Lund and his wife, Sister Kalleen Lund, has been an international one. Having met first in Frankfurt, Germany, while President Lund was enlisted in the U.S. Army after serving a mission, they reunited later as students at BYU in Provo, Utah, and married in the Salt Lake Temple in 1980. They have four children and several grandchildren, have served as mission leaders in the Georgia Atlanta Mission and have built a life of both religious and community service. They join Church News editor Ryan Jensen on this episode of the Church News podcast to discuss how patterns of service and sacrifice have blessed their lives as they serve their Church, community and family. 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. Hosts Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of the Church News, and Church News reporter Mary Richards share unique views of the stories, events, and 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.

Callie Jo Smith, a former collegiate tennis star and 11-time Professional Pickleball Association champion, shares her journey of faith and sport. She discusses how family bonds strengthened through recreational activities and her initial disdain for pickleball turned into passion. Callie emphasizes the importance of prayer and teamwork with her husband, navigating motherhood and professional challenges. Additionally, she highlights the transformative power of sharing her faith with young people, demonstrating how love and spirituality shape success and identity.

New mission leaders gather at the Provo Missionary Training Center, receiving powerful counsel on inviting others to Christ and the critical role of the Book of Mormon in their mission. Insights are shared on the importance of personal conversion, moral agency, and unwavering dedication to their purpose. The metaphor of the armor of God illustrates how it protects missionaries spiritually. Emphasis is placed on fostering a covenant relationship with Christ and understanding how love drives effective missionary work. The transformative power of scriptures remains a central theme.

The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square celebrates a historic milestone on July 13, 2025, when it airs its 5,000th broadcast of “Music & the Spoken Word.” This occasion will commemorate more than nine decades of inspirational sacred music and messages shared with audiences around the world. To discuss this achievement nearly a century in the making, Tabernacle Choir President Michael O. Leavitt and the “voice of the choir,” producer, principal writer and presenter Derrick Porter join the Church News podcast — recorded inside the Tabernacle on Temple Square — to discuss the importance of sacred music. They explore how the choir’s music has touched the lives of members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints worldwide for generations past and will for generations to come.  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. Hosts Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of the Church News, and Church News reporter Mary Richards share unique views of the stories, events, and 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.

Join Strive to Be artists Pearce Morris, Ashley Hess, and Ellie Barry as they dive into the transformative power of music in faith. Pearce, a mission-returned artist, emphasizes focusing on Jesus Christ through music. Ashley shares her passion for worship songs that inspire, while Ellie testifies of God’s love in her performances. They discuss the upcoming Festival 2025, highlighting how live music fosters community and strengthens testimonies. Together, they explore the profound healing and confidence that music can bring on personal faith journeys.

Travis Hansen, a former BYU basketball player with a storied career in the NBA and internationally, shares his inspiring journey. He reflects on the deep faith he's cultivated through personal loss, including his mother's battle with cancer. Hansen emphasizes the importance of being 'in the right place' to make meaningful connections and support others. His experiences as a missionary in Chile and now as a young adult leader highlight the interplay between faith, community, and personal growth—creating a rich tapestry of life's challenges and blessings.