Church News

Sept. 23, 2025, marks the 30th anniversary of the publishing of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members of the Church also refer to this proclamation as the family proclamation. For three decades, the principles and doctrine outlined in this document have helped members of the Church, as well as others, to strengthen and understand the importance of family in God’s eternal plan. In this episode of the Church News podcast, W. Bradford Wilcox, a sociology professor at the University of Virginia and director of the National Marriage Project, joins Church News editor Ryan Jensen to discuss the benefits of a “marriage mindset.” 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.

During his nine-year tenure as president of Brigham Young University and roughly two decades serving the Church’s flagship university before that role, Kevin J Worthen has learned a lot from the school’s mission statement to “assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life.” Worthen and his wife, Peggy Worthen, join Church News editor Ryan Jensen in this episode of the Church News podcast to discuss their learnings about family, humility and trusting the revelations of scriptural and modern prophets. They share their unique perspective of BYU and the power of embracing the opportunities of service, one step at a time.  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 Sarah Kellar, a creative director and architect, alongside event co-chairs Sienna Jenson, a graphic designer and returned missionary, and James Fetzer, a materials science graduate, as they delve into the upcoming 'Together in Christ' gathering. They discuss how these conferences cultivate community and spiritual growth among young single adults. With highlights on tailored experiences, engaging activities, and the importance of belonging, this conversation sheds light on the power of connection and faith among today's youth.

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.