BYU Speeches

Ricardo P. Giménez, a General Authority Seventy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares his transformative journey from rejection to purpose. He emphasizes understanding the 'why' behind worship, advocating for genuine connections with the Savior. Giménez discusses the significance of covenant relationships in a confusing world and invites reflection on personal motivations for faith. He encourages listeners to awaken their faith, embrace divine love, and deepen their spiritual engagements, all rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Kevin R. Duncan, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares his inspiring journey through challenges as a BYU student and as a single parent. He emphasizes how faith in Jesus Christ has been a source of strength during life's trials, illustrating the transformative power of love and hope. His reflections highlight the significance of staying connected to divine guidance amidst feelings of isolation, reassuring listeners that Jesus Christ is always the answer to their struggles.

Join Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, as he unveils the deep connection between happiness, virtue, and personal responsibility shaped by the philosophies of Jefferson and Franklin. He emphasizes prioritizing long-term virtue over fleeting gratification, offering practical advice for self-mastery. Delving into the principles of self-governance, Rosen highlights how moral integrity and constitutional understanding are essential for a thriving society, inspiring a thoughtful exploration of what it truly means to pursue happiness.

In this engaging conversation, Gary E. Stevenson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, passionately discusses the importance of waving flags of discipleship. He connects symbols of unity to the principles of peacemaking and understanding within the Church. Stevenson shares insights on cultivating deeper understanding and the power of active listening in building community. He emphasizes the role of disciples in promoting peace and restoration, inspiring listeners to express authentic love and service to others.

C. Shane Reese, President of Brigham Young University, shares insights on overcoming challenges through faith. He reflects on his own underdog journey, emphasizing resilience and divine support. The discussion highlights unlikely victories, such as the BYU football team's successes, as examples of faith in action. Reese inspires listeners to become miracles for others, illustrating the transformative power of kindness with stories from the BYU community. He encourages embracing service and faith to create a positive impact.

Wendy Reese, wife of BYU President C. Shane Reese, shares her insights on the vital role of connections in our lives. She reflects on how personal experiences and evolving communication shape our relationships. Wendy emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions, nurturing social capital, and the transformative power of covenants with Jesus Christ. She inspires listeners to cherish sacred moments and highlights how these divine connections foster both personal growth and community strength.

J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor in the Relief Society general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares insights on finding peace during life's uncertainties. She emphasizes how covenant relationships with God bring solace amidst chaos. From her transformation into a confident speaker to the tale of missionaries in Ecuador preparing for an earthquake, she highlights the miraculous outcomes of faith and divine guidance. Ultimately, J. Anette encourages listeners to embrace their spiritual heritage and strengthen their trust in Jesus Christ.

In this engaging talk, Anthony D. Perkins, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, discusses becoming God's peculiar treasure. He explores the biblical concept of being a 'peculiar people' and how it relates to personal identity and faith. Perkins emphasizes the importance of keeping covenants, including those from the temple endowment and marriage. He also highlights how following specific commandments, like the Word of Wisdom and tithing, fosters a deeper connection with God, setting believers apart from societal norms.

In this discussion, Melissa S. Kearney, a prominent economics professor at the University of Maryland specializing in poverty and income inequality, emphasizes the importance of strong family structures. She highlights the alarming decline of two-parent homes in the U.S. and its detrimental effects on children. Kearney advocates for making family support a national priority, suggesting that investments in vocational training and relationship education will bolster parenting skills and tackle child poverty, ultimately paving the way for a more equitable society.

J. Ty Hopkins, a professor and chair of Exercise Sciences at BYU, discusses the true meaning of endurance. He emphasizes that endurance is more than just survival; it involves effort, learning, and a deeper connection to God through gratitude and prayer. Hopkins shares insights on personal growth derived from overcoming challenges and the joy that comes from cultivating virtues like love and humility. He also reflects on his experiences in ultra-endurance biking, highlighting resilience and the transformative nature of the journey.