This simple way of gathering helps Relief Society sisters find real connection

The Church issued the following statement Monday about the separation of children from their parents along the U.S.-Mexico border:

“What I’ve learned about Nephi is in the decisions he’s made. He had to trust in the Lord that that was the right thing to do,” Jackson VanDerwerken said. “These videos really humanize him, and I believe I was cast as him because of experiences I have had that have allowed me to react to situations the way he would have reacted. I just trust that how I would act is how Nephi would have reacted. Of course, Nephi was a much more faithful person than I am, but he still is a man. He made the right choices at the right time. And that’s what we need to realize — that the big choice matter but also the little ones, too.”

“I did not hear a voice, but it was as if God told me, ‘I have been telling you all along that it is true,’” Elder Renlund said. “That experience changed me. It changed my life. It began a process of belief, a process of being on the covenant path and trying to do more and trying to do better.”

Ahhh trek. That Mormon right of passage that no one can successfully explain to people who haven't had this unique experience. Yes, we pack up handcarts, don bonnets and wide-brimmed hats, and walk across the desert. But there's so much more to trek than that.

Two books of sacred music published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are about to undergo significant changes. An official notice has been sent to Church leaders around the world announcing a revision to “Hymns” and the “Children’s Songbook” used in worship services.

GENTRI added a new spin on the popular folk hymn classic "I'll Fly Away" that is simply stunning. Set in the midst of beautiful summer scenery, this music video reminds viewers of God's creations and how we can one day return to His presence.

LDS golfer Tony Finau made national headlines this year after getting a hole-in-one at the Masters and dislocating his ankle in the celebration. Finau finished 10th in the Masters and has continued to make headlines as he competed in the U.S. Open this past weekend.

"President Nelson, you have touched the hearts and the souls — literally touched the hearts — and the souls and minds of millions of people," University of Utah President Ruth V. Watkins said. "We're so delighted to be able to establish this tribute to you and Dantzel."

We speak about “excellence” a great deal, but by definition, excellence does not come easily or quickly—an excellent education does not; a successful mission does not; a strong, loving marriage does not; rewarding personal relationships do not. It is simply a truism that nothing very valuable can come without sacrifice and effort and patience on our part. Perhaps you discovered that when you got your last grades. Maybe you are also finding that many of the most hoped-for rewards in life can seem an awfully long time coming.